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 China congratulates Indonesia on becoming full member of BRICS Xinhua) 08:08, January 07, 2025 BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- China welcomes and warmly congratulates Indonesia on becoming a full member of BRICS, a foreign ministry spokesperson said Monday. Brazil, as the BRICS chair this year, released a statement announcing that Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS, which received wide attention from the international community. The spokesperson said Indonesia, as a major developing country and an important force in the Global South, highly recognizes the BRICS spirit and has taken an active part in "BRICS Plus" cooperation. The spokesperson said Indonesia's official entry into BRICS serves the common interests of BRICS countries and the Global South, adding that "we believe that Indonesia will make active contribution to the development of BRICS." The spokesperson said BRICS is a main platform for promoting solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and a major force driving the reform of the global governance system, and BRICS countries are always committed to multilateralism, fairness and justice, and common development. BRICS's latest addition follows the historic trend of the collective rise of the Global South. China stands ready to work with Indonesia and other BRICS members to jointly build a more comprehensive, close, practical and inclusive partnership, advance the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and make greater contribution to building a community with a shared future for mankind, the spokesperson added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Two people were found dead in the wheelwell of a JetBlue plane that arrived from New York City at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the airline reported on Tuesday. The bodies were found Monday night during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection. The identities of the individuals remain unknown. JetBlue Corporate Communications said that "the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation." "This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred," it added. Carey Codd, spokesperson for the Broward County Sheriff's Office, said: "The Broward County Medical Examiner's Office will perform autopsies to determine the causes of death of both individuals." Monday's incident follows a similar tragedy just two weeks earlier, when a body was discovered in the landing compartment of a United Airlines flight that had arrived from Chicago at an airport in Hawaii on Christmas Eve. "The wheel well was only accessible from outside of the aircraft. At this time, it is not clear how or when the person accessed the wheel well," a spokesperson for United Airlines said at the time. The Federal Aviation Administration said that the landing gear compartment is a common area used by stowaways, who often underestimate the limited space in the bay once the gear is retracted. Those who aren't crushed frequently lose consciousness due to a lack of oxygen or succumb to freezing temperatures at cruising altitude. Could you shed some light on the expansion of German firms in Vietnam amidst global and regional supply chain realignment? Peter Kompalla, chief representative of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam Our World Business Outlook Fall 2024, which surveyed almost 3,500 German companies worldwide, indicates increasing confidence among German businesses, with around half of them anticipating business growth and 35 per cent planning to increase local investments in 2025 and beyond. A remarkable 81 per cent of German businesses are positive about and satisfied with their current operations in the country. This reflects Vietnams strategic position as a key player in the global supply chain realignment. German firms see Vietnam as a reliable partner due to its stability, integration into international trade agreements, and its role as a manufacturing hub for industries like electronics, machinery, and textiles. In the context of foreign direct investment cooling fears related to potential US trade policies, Vietnam benefits from its diversification strategy, attracting companies seeking to de-risk operations. German businesses, especially in machinery, renewable energy, and consumer goods, are leveraging Vietnams skilled workforce and cost competitiveness. The strong trade ties between Germany and Vietnam, underscored by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, further amplify Vietnams appeal. However, Vietnam and Germany share vulnerabilities as open economies exposed to global imbalances. German firms are aware of external risks, such as potential shifts in global demand and economic policies, and they are adapting by fostering regional trade partnerships and localising their operations in Vietnam. German investment in Vietnam reached new heights in 2024, with direct investment of $2.79 billion by November. What is the reason why behind this? In 2024, German investment in Vietnam was driven by the latters advantages, including political stability, strategic location, and progressive trade agreements. The countrys proactive approach to supply chain diversification and emphasis on sustainability align with the priorities of German firms, particularly in sectors like renewables and advanced manufacturing. Compared to regional peers, Vietnam stands out for its dual advantages of a growing domestic market and an export-oriented economy. Vietnam offers a compelling mix of competitive labour costs, an emerging middle class, and active government support for industries like green energy. Vietnams consistent reforms to improve its business environment have also positioned it as a preferred destination over some ASEAN neighbours. The combination of these factors makes Vietnam a long-term partner for German investors seeking regional diversification and growth. What are the potential pros and cons for German businesses in Vietnam in 2025? There are myriad opportunities for German businesses looking to invest in Vietnam in 2025. Vietnams commitment to sustainability and digital transformation opens doors for German companies, particularly in renewable energy, smart manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 solutions. One concrete example will be the factory automation symposium organised by us in May 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City. This event will gather key players from German and Vietnamese industries, and will highlight Vietnams demand for advanced factory automation solutions, a sector where German expertise excels. The participation of German companies such as Beckhoff Automation, Trumpf, and Wurth Industry showcases the growing collaboration between the two countries. Additionally, Vietnams continued infrastructure development and urbanisation create demand for German expertise in construction, logistics, and technology. However, challenges remain. Vietnam faces a skilled labour shortage, mirroring global trends, which necessitates increased investment in vocational training and talent development. Furthermore, global uncertainties, such as fluctuating demand and geopolitical risks, may influence some investment decisions. Regulatory transparency and predictability are also critical for maintaining confidence. Despite these various challenges, German firms remain optimistic but cautious, balancing opportunities with a pragmatic approach to navigating Vietnams dynamic market. German enterprises show voracious appetite for Vietnam The German enterprises visit to look for investment opportunities showed that Vietnam is becoming an attractive destination for German investors and that those already present in the country are looking at bright prospects. Hanoi, Germany eye stronger cooperation German enterprises are very interested in cooperating with Hanoi, especially in terms of water supply and drainage and transport, outgoing German Ambassador to Vietnam Christian Berger has said. Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen. Photo: VGP According to Secretary of Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen, the establishment of an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City is a clear demonstration of the central strategic vision and strong commitment and determination of the authorities in building a transparent and effective financial ecosystem. We realise that an international financial centre is not only a place where activities on financial, banking, insurance, and securities are implemented, but a place where knowledge and technology converge, attracting capital flow at competitive costs," Nen said. This is a political commitment to realise the direction of the central government and the prime minister. Ho Chi Minh City will be determined to implement the Politburo's conclusions and the government's plan decisively. Currently, Ho Chi Minh City has established a local steering committee to coordinate work with specific tasks and action plans. At the same time, it reserved a space for researching and developing the financial centre. The initial space for developing a financial centre was fixed in Thu Thiem New Urban Area with a focus on setting up infrastructure connection, preparing human resources, promoting innovation, and scientific and technological research. The city also focuses on allocating and mobilising resources for development, organising seminars, discussions, and listening to the opinions of domestic and foreign experts. This is just the beginning, there are still many challenges ahead. For Vietnam, this is a new, difficult and complicated plan. The Politburo requires agencies to determine high political determination, great efforts, and drastic actions in organising this important project," he said. Secretary of Danang Party Committee Nguyen Van Quang said Danang had proactively developed an implementation plan, ensuring implementation close to international trends. Currently, Danang has formed the financial centre's management and operation apparatus and is calling on investors, as well as reviewing and preparing the infrastructure and ecosystem to serve the financial centre in the future. Secretary of Danang Party Committee Nguyen Van Quang. Photo: VGP Now, Danang is calling for strategic investors to build infrastructure connections and a financial centre in a space of more than six ha towards the sea. This area was approved in the general planning and spans nearly 50 hectares in Son Tra district, Quang said. "Danang is ready in terms of available land and planning for building a financial centre." The city is preparing public and private resources, especially building plans with domestic and international training facilities and human resources to serve the centre and developing a plan to assign officials to study abroad to have practical experiences to work in the centre. Danang has also assigned responsibilities to relevant agencies to advise and build policy mechanisms related to immigration and international arbitration to serve for the incoming centre. Financial investment funds and investors will commit and accompany the city to develop the financial centre in Danang in a green, sustainable direction, resonating with the city's geopolitical locations, building infrastructure system, urban and hospitality development in a model regional financial centre, Quang said. Investors need guidelines for IFC ambitions Several foreign investors are eager to partner with the Vietnamese government to develop a financial centre in the country, but emphasise the need for more open and innovative mechanisms to make it happen. Son Hai Group, one of the three contractors working on the Van Phong- Nha Trang section of the North-South highways eastern link has asked the Ministry of Transport (MoT) to allow 68.5 km of the 83.35 km stretch to be opened to traffic by January 10. "We are close to an agreement on temporarily opening a part of the Van Phong-Nha Trang section during the upcoming Lunar New Year," said a Son Hai Group representative. The Van Phong-Nha Trang project is one of 12 components of the development of the North-South highways eastern segment. Located in the south central province of Khanh Hoa, it has two packages that began construction in 2023. Photo: baodautu.vn According to Tran Dinh Tuyen, deputy director of Project Management Unit 7- the project's developer, the original deadline was November 30, 2025. However, following a commitment made to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, contractors have intensified their efforts by deploying additional machinery, working three shifts daily, with a new completion target of April 30, around seven months ahead of schedule. "If the contractors manage to open 68.5km by January 10, they will further shatter deadlines, effectively shortening the construction time by almost a year," said a representative from the developer. "This is a matter of pride for Vietnam's top contractors. We are mobilising more equipment and workers, reorganising workflows, and fully committing to finishing all remaining tasks within the next 10 days. We aim to demonstrate that with determination and support from management authorities, Vietnamese contractors can achieve this remarkable feat," according to a Son Hai spokesperson. The MoT has hailed this accelerated progress as an inspiring milestone for other contractors engaged in a high-intensity campaign to complete the 3,000 km of national highways launched by the PM last August. According to the MoT, plans for 2025 include the completion of 1,188 km of expressways spanning 28 projects. Of these, 16 are managed by the MoT, while 12 are being overseen by local authorities. Currently, as the campaign passes its first quarter, around 14 projects covering 771 km are on track for completion this year. For instance, on the Quang Ngai-Hoai Nhon section in central Vietnam, renowned for its challenging geology, the contractor consortium led by Deo Ca Group has pledged to complete package XL1 involving a 30 km section by June 30 six months ahead of schedule and package XL2 involving more than 27 km by August 30, four months ahead of schedule. Despite geological challenges, package XL3, involving a 31 km section and a 3,200-metre tunnel, is also on track for completion by the end of this year. This progress extends beyond the North-South highways component items to other major expressway initiatives led by the MoT and local governments. At the Khanh Hoa-Buon Ma Thuot expressway, Son Hai Group is concentrating its resources on advancing work by three to six months. The company has also committed to completing 52km of the Bien Hoa-Vung Tau expressway this year, 12 months ahead of schedule, while maintaining top-tier construction quality. "Weve witnessed the PMs hands-on approach, visiting sites during weekends and holidays. His commitment has inspired contractors and workers to achieve their assigned goals," said Le Viet Hai, chairman of Son Hai Group. Minister of Transport Tran Hong Minh emphasised the importance of maintaining balance. "While striving to meet deadlines, quality must remain uncompromised. Inspection and supervision must be thorough. It is crucial that no province delays the overarching goal of completing the 3,000 km of expressways before the end of 2025. The highway network from north to south must flow seamlessly," said the MoT leader. Nearly 1,200 km of North-South corridor expressway put into operation The North-South corridor expressway, running from Huu Nghi border gate to Ca Mau, is 2,063 km long as designed. As of May 2024, a total of 1,187 km have been put into operation, 861 km are under construction, and the remaining 15 km are under preparation for investment. Keeping the economic reform spirit alive As a regular visitor for over 35 years, Patrick Lenain, senior associate at the Council on Economic Policies, has witnessed Vietnams most remarkable achievements. He delves into the nations economic trajectory and what may be around the corner. A variety of multinationals plan to carry out new tech transfer initiatives for drugs and vaccines in Vietnam with an aim to increase local access. Pharma seeks tech transfer incentives, Source: freepik.com Atul Tandon, general director of AstraZeneca Vietnam, said its $90 million investment for 2022 to 2030 for production setup and supply operations in Vietnam underscores its long-term commitment to transferring cutting-edge technology and producing innovative medicines locally. AstraZenecas technology transfer to Vietnam to locally produce nine stock-keeping units of our four leading brands, accounting for nearly half of our current years pharmaceuticals supply in Vietnam, is a comprehensive initiative that goes beyond advanced manufacturing capabilities, he said. In response to the Vietnamese government strategy on development of the local industry, AstraZeneca is aligning its projects with national health priorities to improve local manufacturing capacity. However, technology transfer in pharma is fraught with numerous risks and challenges, Tandon added. From ensuring the seamless integration of advanced technologies to maintaining stringent quality standards, every step requires meticulous planning and execution. At Viatris, its local manufacturing of drugs using the tech transfer process is aligned with the governments directives on developing the pharma industry and balancing local, regional, and global supply at scale. In 2018, it signed a contract with an EU-GMP manufacturer for production of originator items in Vietnam. Four years later, it broadened collaboration with the manufacturer to license production of other non-communicable disease products. Now, it is prioritising portfolio expansion to address a broader range of unmet healthcare needs across Vietnam. We are dedicated to crafting a comprehensive business strategy that expands our commercial footprint in Vietnam and deepens our commitment to the local healthcare community. To achieve this goal, we will focus on sustainable access at scale, said Radhika Bhalla, head of Vietnam and Asia Alliance Markets for Viatris. This activity still faces many obstacles regarding procedures and funding, of which legal reforms are needed to create a more attractive investment environment for the industry, Bhalla added. In some countries, policymakers focus on these initiatives to foster self-sufficiency and empower countries to address their healthcare needs through a mix of global, regional, and local production, Bhalla said. Vietnam can strike a similar balance while also acknowledging investment by providing favourable tax policies, streamlining the licensing process for drugs undergoing technology transfer and implementing policies to enable their market viability. Stellapharm is also trying to push ahead. Established in 2000, the company first entered the EU market under tech transfer projects with German partners. Nguyen Ngoc Lieu, deputy general director of Stellapharm, said, We want to invest but cannot do so widely, as we need clear and specific policies. We still encounter many problems: for instance, there are some products which were transferred from factories abroad, but when entering Vietnam, they faced problems related to the regulations on equipment incompatibility. We find it very difficult to implement the investment. Moreover, the tech transfer process in Vietnam takes 5-8 years, and it takes two years for registration. This is not feasible for European groups, Lieu added. At a policy dialogue workshop on the issue held in late December in Hanoi, experts agreed that the challenges underscore the critical need for collaboration with the government, agencies, and various stakeholders to solve. The bottlenecks have resulted in the timid number of drugs and vaccines under technology transfer in Vietnam over past years. According to the Drug Administration of Vietnam under the Ministry of Health, as of 2023, only nine patented pharmaceuticals had tech transferred to Vietnam from multinationals. Vietnams pharma manufacturing tech has only reached level 3 on the 4-level scale of the World Health Organization. Nguyen Khanh Phuong, director of the Health Strategy and Policy Institute, added that technology transfer contributes to achieving the pharma industrys goals by 2030. These include increasing domestically produced drugs to 80 per cent in quantity and 70 per cent in market value; carrying out tech transfer for at least 100 original brand-name pharmaceuticals; and increasing Vietnams pharma manufacturing tech to level 4. International experience shows that the success of this depends heavily on government support. The key is that the government needs to improve regulations to ensure the interests of the parties involved specifically the mechanism on protecting intellectual property rights, creating stronger conditions for parties in terms of registration of documents and related legal procedures, Phuong said. The support related to manpower for parties involved during implementation is also an issue of concern to many businesses. The others include procurement and bidding policies, tax incentives, and training of qualified people to receive technology transfer, Phuong added. New legal upgrades can aid pharma tech transfer Vietnams pharmaceutical industry has made notable achievements in recent times. The total value of the market has increased from $3.4 billion in 2015 to $7.46 billion in 2022, with an annual growth rate of about 12-15 per cent. The Vietnamese government last week ordered authorities at all levels to remove obstacles for energy and transport infrastructure in 2025 to help manufacturing and processing engage more foreign investment. We will focus on speeding up construction of key infrastructure works and projects of national importance, especially strategic initiatives in the sectors of transport, energy, and response to climate change, said Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. The government has urged the completion of all projects which are under construction, and early construction of new ones, including expressways connected to airports, seaports, and railways, as well as urban areas and key economic regions. In 2025, construction of the [$18.7 billion] Long Thanh International Airport in the southern province of Dong Nai, and ports at the Lach Huyen area in the northern city of Haiphong must be almost completed, while construction of Lien Chieu port in the central city of Danang must start, PM Chinh said. The government has also set a target that by late 2025, 3,000km of expressways and more than 1,000km of coastal roads will be completed. A plan to resume the development of a nuclear power initiative in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan will also begin in 2025. In November, the National Assembly adopted the revised Law on Electricity which embraces regulations on nuclear power development, which will help to ensure sufficient electricity for domestic production. According to the World Bank, Vietnams manufacturing-led growth was enabled by the rapid expansion of infrastructure, especially connectivity and power supply. The expansion of infrastructure and the growth of the manufacturing sector in Vietnam have been closely intertwined, contributing to the countrys economic development over the last 30 years. The expansion of transport, including roads, railways, and waterways, and power infrastructure is crucial to facilitating the manufacturing and export-led growth. However, energy and transport infrastructure needs could become a constraint to growth going forward. Vietnams trade and manufacturing-led growth has been both energy- and transport-intensive in energy. The growth of both energy demand and freight volumes has outpaced the growth of GDP, placing significant demand on infrastructure assets and services, the World Bank said. The bank pointed out that recent power blackouts and growing road congestion are concrete manifestations of the emerging challenges. If not addressed, they risk becoming a constraint to future growth. Meeting the steep increase in energy demand will require doubling the existing installed capacity (78GW in 2021) every 10 years and expanding the associated transmission infrastructure, the bank said. It is estimated that investment requirements in power generation and grid infrastructure in this decade alone stand at $135 billion ($15 billion per year), including private (80 per cent) and public (20 per cent) investments. The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) reported that industrial production continues being the largest driver of economic recovery and growth. In the first 11 months of 2024, Vietnams index of industrial production (IIP) rose 8.4 per cent on-year, the highest 11-month IIP increase since 2020. It is estimated that the whole-year IIP will climb by more than 8 per cent, exceeding the initial plan of 7-8 per cent, the MoIT said. Efforts are to be made to reach 9-10 per cent on-year in 2025. Also according to the MoIT, in the first 11 months of 2024, the IIP of the manufacturing and processing industry, which is the mainstay of industrial production, increased 9.7 per cent on-year. All key industrial sectors witnessed big growth such as oil and gas, mining, electricity, electronics, telecommunication, IT, metallurgy, steel, cement, garment and textile, machinery, and vehicles, which will lay firm groundwork for the countrys long-term growth and boost national industrialisation and modernisation. Cumulatively as of November 30, foreign direct investment into this industry hit nearly 17,760 projects registered at $303.9 billion, accounting for 61.2 per cent of the total registered, the Ministry of Planning and Investment reported. However, according to experts, emerging infrastructure bottlenecks could erode the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector. Recent energy shortages were short-lived, but had a significant impact on business. The MoIT has set a goal that in 2025, total domestically produced and imported power output will reach 347.5 billion, up by about 12.2 per cent as compared to 2024. In which the total power capacity, excluding rooftop solar power, will hit 82,097MW, representing an on-year rise of 6.2 per cent. The case for credit enhancement facilities to bridge infrastructure gap Vietnam needs robust solutions to mobilise the capital required to create bankable infrastructure. Denesh Srishanker, group head of Credit Enhancement Facilities at the Private Infrastructure Development Group, looks at the concept of credit enhancement facilities and how they would help long-term lending for the cause. Hanoi advances comprehensive solutions for smart city development Hanoi is adopting a synchronised approach to smart city development, spanning from macro strategies to investments in infrastructure and data systems. The Capital Law to help develop Hanoi's railway system The Capital Law, set to take effect in January, permits investment in the development of Hanoi's urban railway system, prioritising the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model to ensure modernity, compatibility and sustainability. Photo: Le Toan. According to a report by the General Statistics Office under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the total foreign investment registered in Vietnam reached $38.23 billion for the year, down 3 per cent on-year. There were 3,375 newly licenced projects, valued at $19.73 billion, an increase of 1.8 per cent on-year in number of projects but a decrease of 7.6 per cent in registered capital. Of those, newly registered projects in the real estate sector reached $3.72 billion, accounting for nearly 19 per cent of total newly registered capital. The newly registered and adjusted capital in real estate business activities together reached $5.09 billion (up 9 per cent compared to last year), accounting for more than 15 per cent of total adjusted and newly registered capital. For the form of capital contributions and share purchases by foreign investors, registered investment capital in real estate business activities reached $1.22 billion, down 61 per cent compared to 2023. The total registered FDI capital in the real estate sector in 2024 reached more than $6.3 billion in total, an increase of 35 per cent compared to last year. Nguyen Le Dung, head of Investment Department, Savills Hanoi, said that investors from Singapore, Japan, and South Korea are countries with active operations in Vietnam. "There are a number of segments that investors pay attention to. For example, the residential real estate segment continues to attract a lot of attention due to urbanisation and rising housing demand in large cities. The supply of new projects is recorded at a low level due to legal restrictions, meaning this segment receives a lot of attention from foreign investors," Dung said. The strong development of the manufacturing industry in Vietnam has made industrial real estate an attractive segment. "The rise of this segment is driven by the presence of many foreign investment funds and investors, focusing on Grade A warehouse and workshop projects that meet high standards and quality in the market," said Dung. Meanwhile, the commercial real estate segment also received great attention, thanks to the development of the retail and service markets. "This reflects the increase in demand growth in parallel with urban real estate and is supported by factors such as the transformation of people's consumption habits, with more customers prioritising shopping experiences at commercial centres and closed multi-functional service spaces," she added. Meanwhile, Hoang Minh, director of the Thu Duc Real Estate Transaction Centre in Ho Chi Minh City, commented that investors today tend to prioritise private enterprises, thanks to their flexibility and ability to quickly adapt in operations. "The scale and total investment of investors is very diverse and will change depending on each development segment," Minh said. However, Minh stressed that foreign investors pay special attention to projects that have the ability to develop sustainably and meet current market needs to increase product quality and consumer experience. "In addition, legal issues will be given priority due to their direct impact on implementation progress, transaction structure, and investors' financial plans," he added. Real estate cannot go global without green awareness Limited domestic supply of green materials and insufficient awareness of green real estate remain the most enduring challenges preventing Vietnam from participating more deeply in the global green real estate market. Real estate growth anticipated next year The real estate market in Vietnam is poised for a new cycle of growth in 2025, lifted by renewed confidence and revised legislation. This growth is particularly driven by the computing sectors resurgence in the second and third quarters of 2024. The long-term outlook is equally promising, with the global semiconductor market projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030, propelled by innovations in AI, electric vehicles, and other cutting-edge technologies. Vlad Savin, partner, Acclime Vietnam Vietnam is emerging as a critical hub for semiconductor investments, attracting global attention with its strategic advantages. According to SEMI, an industry association comprising companies involved in the electronics design and manufacturing supply chain, Vietnams semiconductor market is expected to reach $18.23 billion in 2024, growing at an impressive compound annual growth rate of 11.48 per cent. The countrys rise is underpinned by its youthful and skilled workforce, strategic location near major semiconductor hubs like China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, and robust government support. These factors position Vietnam as a viable alternative to China, especially as the US and its allies impose tighter restrictions on semiconductor tech. Vietnams journey into semiconductor manufacturing began in 1979 with the establishment of its first semiconductor facility, Z181. The plant was initially focused on producing and exporting semiconductor components to Eastern Bloc countries. However, this early effort was stopped following the Soviet Unions collapse and the subsequent trade embargo, which disrupted the industrys development. Starting in the 2000s, the industry saw significant expansion, driven by increased government support for high-tech industries and initiatives to enhance local skills. The development of industrial hubs like Saigon High-Tech Park in Ho Chi Minh City and Hoa Lac High-Tech Park in Hanoi attracted major players such as Intel and Samsung, setting the stage for broader industry growth. Building on growth As of December 2024, Vietnam attracted over 170 foreign-invested projects already operational, representing a total registered capital of around $11.6 billion. This robust foundation reflects the growing confidence of global technology and semiconductor companies in Vietnams potential to become a key player in the global semiconductor value chain. Vietnams semiconductor industry is steadily growing, with a diverse range of companies contributing to the design segment. Prominent players such as Renesas, Qorvo, Marvell, Ampere, and Synopsys are key contributors to this industry. These enterprises, whether focused on proprietary designs or outsourced projects, collectively generate significant revenue, showcasing Vietnams capabilities in the global chip design market. In manufacturing, packaging, and testing, major names like Intel and Amkor have established a presence, with more companies expected to join the market soon. A noteworthy milestone for the industry was achieved by FPT Semiconductor, which developed Vietnams first integrated circuit chip in 2022. Building on this success, FPT announced plans in April 2024 to invest $200 million in constructing an AI factory, leveraging Nvidias advanced graphics chips and software. These developments underscore Vietnams potential to evolve into a competitive player across various stages of the semiconductor value chain. Vietnam is rapidly emerging as an attractive destination for the semiconductor industry, supported by an existing manufacturing base, a growing ecosystem, and improving infrastructure. As the US imposes restrictions on Chinas semiconductor industry, Vietnam has become a compelling alternative for global firms seeking to diversify their supply chains. The country also boasts a significant demographic advantage, with a youthful and skilled workforce that stands in stark contrast to ageing populations and labour shortages in countries like Japan, South Korea, and parts of Europe. Government support has further bolstered this momentum, as Vietnam outlines a clear vision for its semiconductor industry, aiming to achieve key milestones by 2030. One of the governments initiatives involves allocating $1 billion to train 50,000 semiconductor engineers by 2030, significantly increasing from the 5,000 engineers currently in place as of summer 2024. Vietnams strategic location near major semiconductor hubs, including China, Japan, and South Korea, positions it as an integral player in the global value chain. Its affordable manufacturing costs and trade agreements enhance its appeal to investors. Vietnams expanding pool of skilled labour, which includes over 5,500 chip design engineers, demonstrates its readiness to contribute to the global labour market and address talent gaps in the industry. Additionally, Vietnams vast rare earth reserves, the second largest globally, offer a unique opportunity to build a fully integrated semiconductor supply chain. The government envisions the area around Ho Chi Minh Citys new airport in District 9 as a budding Silicon Delta, potentially rivalling Taiwans Hsinchu Science Park, which houses global giants like TSMC and UMC. By 2030, Vietnam aims for high-tech products to account for 45 per cent of its manufacturing and processing output, signalling its commitment to becoming a major player in the global semiconductor ecosystem. Strategic relationships The Vietnam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, announced in September 2023, has significantly bolstered Vietnams semiconductor ambitions. The United States has committed to strengthening collaboration on semiconductor supply chain resilience, supporting the development of Vietnams high-tech workforce, facilitating the renewable energy transition, improving the regulatory framework to attract high-quality investments, and advancing cooperation on critical minerals. A standout example of this collaboration is in the Electronic Design Automation industry, where US companies hold a dominant position in the global supply chain. Synopsys is working with Vietnams Authority of Information and Communication Technologies Industry to establish a cutting-edge semiconductor research institute, while Cadence has partnered with FPT, the University of Arizona, and Vietnams National Innovation Centre to train local engineering talent. Taiwan also shows its interest in Vietnams potential. Its Southeast Asia Impact Alliance and a Vietnamese fund management firm have joined forces to establish the Southeast Asia Semiconductor Centre and the Southeast Asia Semiconductor School. These initiatives are designed to drive collaboration in semiconductor research and development, creating a dynamic nexus of technology, talent, and industry. By fostering innovation and bridging the gap between Vietnams skilled semiconductor workforce and Taiwans advanced semiconductor enterprises, these entities aim to build a robust semiconductor ecosystem in Vietnam, positioning the country as a key player in the regions high-tech landscape. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in September 2024 issued the strategy for the development of the Vietnamese semiconductor industry. In phase 1 towards 2030, Vietnam aims to leverage its geopolitical advantage and skilled semiconductor workforce to engage selective foreign direct investment. The goal is to develop into one of the global centres for semiconductor human resources, establishing foundational capabilities across all stages of the semiconductor industry, including research, design, production, packaging, and testing. Phase 2, from 2030 to 2040, focuses on becoming one of the global centres for the semiconductor and electronics industries. This phase emphasises the development of these industries by combining self-reliance with foreign investment. The third phase to 2050 strives for Vietnam to become a top nation in the world in the semiconductor and electronics industries. The country aims to master research and development in these fields, solidifying its position as a global leader. Vietnams role in the global semiconductor value chain is steadily growing as the country positions itself as a hub for chip design, testing, packaging, and material production. Despite the absence of domestic chip manufacturing facilities, Vietnams skilled workforce, cost advantages, and strategic partnerships with global tech leaders have allowed it to carve out a niche in this highly competitive industry. For international investors looking to tap into Vietnams semiconductor market, understanding the Vietnamese regulations and leveraging government incentives can provide a strong foundation for entry. Looking ahead, Vietnam has competitive edges to become a significant player in the global semiconductor market. With strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and policy incentives, combined with its ability to pull in multinational corporations, the country is poised to climb further up the value chain. By fostering innovation, enhancing technical capabilities, and strengthening international collaborations, Vietnam could play a transformative role in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry. Inflows picking up the pace for semiconductors Semiconductors are heating up foreign investment inflows into Vietnam, and capturing a larger proportion of the total. Appetite for high-growth stocks linked to semiconductors, AI and digital assets Investors are scouting for high-growth stocks related to semiconductors and AI as well as acquiring digital assets, heard a recent panel discussion about investment opportunities in H2. The microchip allure for big players Vietnam boasts some strategic advantages that can lure some of the biggest economies to invest in its industrial hubs. Manager Ly Nguyen and associate Tu Nguyen of the Tony Blair Institute Vietnam pore over the investment preferences of European and the US investors in industrial parks for semiconductors. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the announcement ceremony of the government resolution on the action plan to develop regional and international financial centres. Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Media Centre At the announcement ceremony of the government resolution on developing regional and international financial centres, held in Ho Chi Minh City, Chinh pointed out that, the nation remained a bright spot in terms of growth, with an annual GDP growth rate of roughly 7 per cent, bringing the nations economy to about $470 billion in 2024. Vietnam's total import-export turnover hit a record of $810 billion, with a trade surplus of $24 billion. State budget revenue in 2024 reached a record of more than VND2 quadrillion (approximately $79.2 billion), marking an increase of 19.1 per cent compared to the 2023, according to the Ministry of Finance. FDI inflows amounted to around $40 billion, bringing the nation into the group of 15 developing countries attracting the largest amounts of foreign investment capital globally. Meanwhile, the countrys stock market capitalisation reached nearly VND7.2 quadrillion, an increase of 21.2 per cent compared to the end of 2023. Vietnam has an integrated, highly open economy, having signed 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) with over 65 of the world's leading economies. In 2024, it has achieved $800 billion of import-export revenue, about 1.7 times greater than GDP. PM Chinh said Vietnam continued implementation of strategic breakthroughs, restructuring the economy with innovating growth models and improving productivity and competitiveness of the economy, while exploiting new development spaces such as outer, underground, and marine space. Vietnam is renewing the three traditional growth drivers of investment, consumption, and export, and strongly working on new growth drivers such as the digital, green, circular, sharing, knowledge and night economies. The PM pointed out a number of goals in 2025 including completing at least 3,000km of expressways, finishing expressways from Cao Bang to Ca Mau province, starting construction of the Lao Cai - Hanoi - Haiphong railway, and preparing for the North-South high-speed railway. We need large capital resources for all of this development, and it must be mobilised both from direct and indirect investment, PM Chinh said. Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said that recently the world had seen had turbulent and unpredictable developments. The world needs developing new financial centres which can provide specific financial products and services for the niche markets, different from traditional financial centres, while also supporting and creating synergistic benefits, contributing to the overall development of the global financial market, Dung said. Emerging financial centres like Vietnams have a golden opportunity to participate in this through establishing an open legal corridor and ensuring outstanding preferential policies with international practices for leading financial investors. Dung added that Ho Chi Minh City and Danang have converged factors to develop a regional financial centre. The determination to set up financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang reflects Vietnam's aspirations and meets the requirements for deep integration with the global economy. In Notice 47-TB/TW in November 2024, the Politburo agreed to the policy of establishing a comprehensive international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City and a regional financial centre in Danang. 49 groups of specific tasks and solutions have been assigned to 12 ministries, branches, and localities to form a legal framework and prepare conditions for developing financial centres in the country. Standard Chartered to aid development of Ho Chi Minh City financial hub During a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai on June 27, group chairman of Standard Chartered Jose Vinals announced the banks commitment to supporting the development of an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City. Hong Kong's expertise to help develop Ho Chi Minh City During his visit to Vietnam from July 31August 2, Hong Kong chief executive John Lee expressed his willingness to share the special administrative region's experience of building a global a financial centre with Ho Chi Minh City. This model optimises the advantages of industrial clusters and enhances supply chain productivity. It minimises logistics costs and creates a favourable environment for production and business activities, paving the way for businesses to expand cooperation and achieve sustainable growth within the global industrial ecosystem. Logistics Industrial Cluster model The LIC is an advanced industrial park (IP) model that integrates three core pillars: the development of IP infrastructure, synchronised logistics infrastructure, and logistics operations. This holistic solution optimises costs for investors and represents a new trend in industrial development, addressing critical infrastructure and logistics challenges in the Vietnamese market. Western Pacific Group has strategically identified northern Vietnam as a key area for expanding the LIC model, thanks to its advantageous geographical location and modern transportation infrastructure. The region is well-connected through major arteries such as National Highway No.1A, HanoiThai Nguyen Expressway, HanoiHaiphong Expressway, and Phap VanCau Gie Ninh Binh Expressway. These routes provide seamless links to the Chinese border, Lach Huyen Seaport, and Noi Bai International Airport. Provinces such as Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, and Ha Nam boast well-developed infrastructure, facilitating connections among businesses in the region and supporting international expansion. This creates an ideal environment for efficient goods transportation and attracts both domestic and foreign investors. National Highway No.3 Overpass (HanoiThai Nguyen Expressway) connects with Yen Phong II-A Industrial Park From the successful development of Yen Phong II-A IP, a flagship LIC venture in Bac Ninh province, Western Pacific has rapidly expanded their footprint with the Yen Lenh Industrial Cluster in Ha Nam province and is enlarging the LIC ecosystem across northern Vietnam. In Bac Giang, a province with exceptional growth in manufacturing and processing industries, particularly in electronics and high-tech sectors, Western Pacific is extending Yen Lu IP, leveraging its connections to National Highway No.1A for easy access to the Chinese border. In Ha Nam, a rising investment hotspot in northern Vietnam serving as the southern gateway to Hanoi, Western Pacific is actively expanding their land bank for the LIC ecosystem. This includes Dong Van V IP (237 hectares) and Dong Van VI IP (250ha), both featuring synchronised, integrated infrastructure and diverse utility services. Through investments in modern industrial and logistics infrastructure, Western Pacific is building a comprehensive LIC network. This system integrates factories, warehouses, logistics hubs, administrative services, and enclosed utilities within a unified ecosystem. The model helps businesses reduce transportation time, cut emissions, lower operational costs, and enhance competitiveness in the region. Moreover, the LIC model fosters a diverse industrial ecosystem where businesses can collaborate and form synergies. This not only strengthens their competitive edge but also contributes to local socio-economic development and the overall growth of Vietnam's economy. Exploring more about LIC ecosystem via: www.westernpacific.com.vn Logistics Industrial Cluster 'a pioneer' in ESG Western Pacific's Logistics Industrial Cluster (LIC) ecosystem stands as a pioneer in effectively implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance standards. Exxon Mobil has spent more than two decades sparring with activists over climate change. ANGELA WEISS, Contributor / AFP via Getty Images Darren Woods, chairman and chief executive officer of Exxon Mobil Corp, during the Summit on Methane and Other Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gases on day three of the COP28 climate conference at Expo City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023. Hollie Adams/Bloomberg Exxon Mobil storage tank in Baytown. Exxon Mobil faces its biggest challenge yet from activist investors who have long pressured the U.S. oil giant to address more urgently the growing risk of climate change to its fossil fuels business Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer An Israeli private detective arrested in Britain will fight a U.S. extradition request this month based on hacking and wire fraud charges involving an oil and gas firm looking for dirt on climate activists. Amit Forlit allegedly arranged for hackers to steal private information from the accounts of hundreds of environmentalists on behalf of DCI Group, a Washington, D.C.-based public affairs and lobbying company, an investigation by the Reuters news agency uncovered. DCI Groups main client at the time was Exxon Mobil. DCI and Exxon have denied any wrongdoing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Court papers filed in Forlits extradition, revelations in another private detectives conviction and the Reuters investigation provide insight into a new world of corporate dirty tricks. The case also raises questions about Exxons long history of using contractors to maintain plausible deniability. This story begins with activists and Democratic attorneys general pursuing a legal strategy to slow climate change. In 2015, they sought to prove that Exxon Mobil scientists knew in the 1990s that burning oil and natural gas was causing global warming. Yet top executives ignored them and instead launched campaigns to sow doubt about climate change among politicians and the public. Public health advocates won billions of dollars and major concessions from the tobacco industry using a similar strategy. Exxon quickly mobilized to shut down the #ExxonKnew movement and argued it was a political vendetta with no legal merit. Exxon paid DCI millions to help fight the battle. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At about the same time, according to court papers filed in London, the FBI alleges a Washington-based PR and lobbying firm hired Forlit on behalf of an unnamed oil and gas corporation to discredit individuals involved in climate change litigation. Reuters reports the FBI believes Forlit paid another Israeli private investigator, Aviram Azari, to hire mercenary hackers in India to infiltrate the email accounts of hundreds of climate activists and their attorneys. Azari is wrapping up a federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to hacking-for-hire charges. One of his targets was the Rockefeller Family Fund, where descendants of Exxons founder have been trying to force the company to cut fossil fuel production. Neither Forlits nor Azaris attorneys responded to Reuters requests for comment. The hackers broke into several climate activist accounts and stole confidential memos and documents, court papers in Azaris case show. Reuters revealed that DCI distributed those documents, without disclosing their source, to the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Free Beacon, which wrote stories critical of the lawsuits. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Attorneys for Exxon and the National Association of Manufacturers have also used the stolen documents in motions to dismiss the climate lawsuits. Exxon has prevailed in some cases, while others are pending. When the Reuters investigation was published over Thanksgiving week, Exxon called the allegations conspiracy theories. In a follow-up statement, the Spring-based company told Reuters, If there was any hacking involved, we condemn it in the strongest possible terms. DCI said the company "has not been involved in nor commissioned others to hack or to obtain information unlawfully." Exxon reportedly ended its relationship with DCI in 2020. Big corporations have long pushed the envelope of whats legal. Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winner Steve Coll wrote a fascinating book about Exxons history of dirty tricks in Private Empire: Exxon Mobil and American Power. Generations of Exxon executives played by a single rule: maintain plausible deniability. Exxon is by no means the only corporation to hire outside investigators who have engaged in unsavory or illegal activities, with or without the companys knowledge. Raphael Satter, the lead Reuters investigative journalist and a former colleague of mine at the Associated Press, has published a series of pieces on mercenary hackers gathering information for use in lawsuits around the globe. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Wall Street Journal has also reported on allegations that Forlit provided hacking-for-hire services to support Elliott Managements effort to force Argentina to repay its debts. A Washington, D.C.-based PR firm allegedly paid Forlit $20 million to gather information on Argentine officials, an attorney representing the United States told the British court. DCI was handling Elliotts public relations and lobbying concerning Argentina at the time. The government settled the claims in 2016. Illegally obtained documents should not end up in court, but judges have difficulty determining what documents a private investigator stole from what they found online. The FBI appears to be working backward, tracing the stolen documents to the Indian hackers and then allegedly tracing the money to Azari and Forlit. The big question is what DCI and Exxon knew about their contractors tactics. Forlits extradition hearing is on Jan. 22. Texas continues to sprout businesses, according to an update from Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson. The state starts 2025 with more than 2.9 million registered business entities, which is 125,329 more than last year, according to a press release. The economic climate in Texas continues to be strong as entrepreneurs grow and create businesses in our state and more out-of-state entities want to expand to Texas, Nelson wrote, noting the 2.9 million reflects both businesses incorporated here and doing business here. About 2 million Texas businesses are classified as in-state limited liability companies, or LLCs, which protect business owners personally from business debts and claims. California ranks No. 1 in business growth potential in 2025, according to Swoop Funding, an international company specializing in business financing. Its report is interesting because Texas consistently ranks No. 1 in similar listings of economic development performance. In Swoops list, Texas comes in at No. 2, behind California in categories such as venture capital investing, business survival rate and number of entrepreneurs. California stands out as a hub of innovation, with the highest amount of venture capital investments in the U.S., providing strong support for new businesses, a press release says. Despite its high costs, the state has a solid business survival rate, driven by its entrepreneurial ecosystem. Venture capital available to start and grow businesses and to develop new products has reached $81.6 billion in California, well beyond Texas $6.7 billion. New York ranks No. 4 in that category, at $21.7 billion. Texas offers a more business-friendly environment with lower operational costs compared to California. While VC investments are lower, Texas boasts a high number of entrepreneurs, which helps foster growth across various industries, Swoop said of its findings. Rounding out its Top 10 states are Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Connecticut, in that order. Airport fare Yours truly wrote a story appearing over the weekend about Maries Bistro, the new restaurant at Waco Regional Airport. Owners Sidney Warren and Tyrha Lindsey-Warren kindly provided me with sample menus. Unfortunately, I gave short shrift to the lunch and dinner offerings, focusing instead on the breakfast fare and mentioning that three local restaurants, Baris, Pivovar and Sascees, have agreed to make their specialties available. Anyway, travelers or guests just stopping in to dine will have their choice of grilled salmon, chicken/shrimp alfredo, fish tacos, beef tacos, Maries Stir-Fry, vegetable stir-fry, lemon herb chicken and Maries Gourmet Mac and Cheese from the dinner menu. Lunch will include Caesar salad, cobb salad, chicken wings, Maries Bruschetta, Maries Club Sandwich, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Veggie Wrap and Maries Classic Hamburger. Aviation director Longtime city of Waco Aviation Director Joel Martinez resigned in September, and the city has contracted with ADK Consulting to help with recruitment, Assistant City Manager Lisa Blackmon said. She said the search will begin this month, and the city hopes to have someone hired by April or May. Michael Reisman, who had served as chief operating officer at the Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina for 14 years, started as interim director at the Waco Regional Airport effective Oct. 14. Martinez, with more than 20 years experience in airport operations and management, has joined Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc., a firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with a national presence. He works in the planning and design department for the company, whose website says it employs 900 engineers, architects, planners and scientists. Building permit roundup Graphic Packaging International continues to change the landscape, literally, at 2601 Gateway Blvd., where it is building a $1 billion paper mill to produce coated recycled paperboard used in packaging. It is patterned after a Graphic Packaging International production line in Kalamazoo, Michigan, but Wacos will have the unique ability to recycle the equivalent of 15 million paper cups daily. Graphic Packaging last week secured yet another construction permit, this one valued at $12 million, to place a substation and control building on the site. AbbVie, the pharmaceutical giant that acquired Allergan in a $63 billion deal closing in 2020, has acquired a $3 million permit to expand its commercial kitchen and dining room at 8301 Mars Drive. Meanwhile, Pakas Pizzeria Plus received a $250,000 permit to finish out space at 1015 Franklin Ave., according to a newsletter from the local Associated General Contractors of America office. Austin Ave. grocery store Developer Peter Ellis told the Tribune-Herald he soon will provide more details about the grocery store he plans at 1726 Austin Ave., in a 31,000-square-foot building dating to 1950, first used by H-E-B. Downtown Waco Grocery LLC will invest about $4.9 million in the property, with construction starting in April and concluding in April 2026. Ellis said via email he should be able to share more color and detail about the grocer, including exact name, format, plans and more. Ellis said the grocery company he is working with operates in Texas as a small chain with upscale stores. More Texans Where are all these people coming from? Texas was the No. 2 growth state in 2024, according to the U-Haul Growth Index, which tracks one-way customer transactions. This marks the ninth consecutive year the Lone Star State has been among the top two leading U-Haul growth states, a press release says. Texas slips one spot in the rankings after being the No. 1 growth state from 2021-23. South Carolina climbed three spots to claim the top-growth ranking. Though Texas continues to attract people in droves, some have decided to bolt the state. U-Haul arrivals into Texas rose 1.5% while departures rose 2%. This showing nudged Texas from the top spot, U-Haul said. People are still moving to Texas from all across the country for a better, more cost-effective life with less government regulations, Matt Merrill, U-Haul area district vice president, said in the press release. California, by the way, ranked 50th for the fifth consecutive year, with the largest net loss of one-way U-Haul customers. Colorado, Nevada, Wyoming and New Mexico were among the others suffering slides. 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 Houston restaurateur Hugo Ortega at his restaurant Caracol. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Hugo Ortega, a James Beard Award winner and the most decorated Mexico-born chef in Texas, is planning to open a second downtown Houston restaurant this year. The restaurant is aiming to open in late summer, said Tracy Vaught, who is married to Ortega and oversees H Town Restaurant Group along with their daughter, Sophia Ortega. A name and additional details have not been confirmed, but the restaurant is expected to be located at the newly opened Norton Rose Fulbright Tower at 1550 Lamar overlooking Discovery Green park. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The forthcoming restaurant would be Ortegas first opening in nearly four years since he debuted the Mexican street food-inspired concept Urbe in Uptown Park. This project would also be located across the park from H Town Restaurant Groups other downtown concept Xochi, which opened in 2017. HOUSTON EATS: The Chronicles top 100 restaurants The Norton Rose Fulbright Tower, formerly known as 1550 On the Green, features two retail spaces on the ground floor. Both have been leased, said Lindsey McKean, a commercial real estate broker with Shop Companies. Tenfold Coffee opened its second location at the $225 million tower in November, but McKean would not confirm any details for the second space, which spans just over 7,000 square feet. Developer Skanska USA, which opened the Norton Rose Fulbright Tower nearly a year ago, hopes to release more details in the coming months, a spokesperson for the company said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad MORE FROM BAO ONG: Top Woodlands steakhouse Tris closes unexpectedly with departure of chef Austin Simmons Vaught and Ortega also started a new corporation named Sin Fronteras Hospitality in January 2024, according to public records. The company filed a trademark for the names Madre Perla and Zaranda, according to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Both trademarks were classified under restaurant and bar services, but only the trademark for Zaranda, which was filed in July 2024, is still listed as pending. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite the few details, H Town Restaurant Group has another big project on tap as it works on reopening Backstreet Cafe a few steps from its original location of 41 years in River Oaks. Cases of norovirus on the rise in Wales, warn public health experts This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Jan 7th, 2025 The number of people falling ill with the winter vomiting bug in Wales has risen, public health experts have said. Cases of norovirus rose by 26 per cent in the week leading up to December 22, from 39 to 49 cases the previous week. Between September 30 and December 22, cases were 42 per cent higher than the same period last year. With schools and nurseries reopening after the Christmas break, Public Health Wales is urging parents and carers to be watchful for the symptoms of the bug. Children with symptoms which include diarrhoea and/or vomiting should stay away from school or nursery while they have symptoms, and for 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped. People who are unwell with norovirus symptoms should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 30 seconds after using the toilet and before preparing food. They should not share towels with others, and should consider using a separate toilet if that is possible. Wendi Shepherd, Deputy Director in Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said: We expect to see an increase in norovirus cases at this time of year, as it is a common stomach bug that circulates during the winter months. However, we are concerned about an uptick in cases this winter compared with last year. The most important thing we can do to prevent spread is to make sure that children are kept out of school or nursery for 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after using the toilet or preparing food, and remember that hand sanitiser is ineffective against norovirus. Avoid sharing towels, and dont prepare food for others if you have norovirus symptoms. The main symptoms of norovirus are vomiting and diarrhoea. Other symptoms include mild fever, headaches, stomach cramps and aching limbs. While symptoms typically take up to 48 hours to pass, they can leave people feeling unwell, lacking an appetite and fatigued for longer. Good hand washing hygiene also helps to prevent the spread of other seasonal viruses like flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Plans for new solar farm to power major Stori Brymbo project This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Jan 7th, 2025 A new solar farm could soon be created in Brymbo as part of plans submitted to Wrexham Council. Brymbo Heritage Trust, a community-led charity, has proposed that a ground mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) scheme, along with battery storage and grid cabinet, is installed on land off Brymbo Road. The plans have been put forward as part of Stori Brymbo, a major project that will see the Brymbo Ironworks, Steelworks and Fossil Forest sites transformed into a unique tourist attraction. Once completed, Stori Brymbo will provide a unique visitor attraction that moves from the humid, mossy swamp forests of 300 million years ago (the period when coal was formed), through the industrial processes on the site over time. The project is expected to be completed by 2026, with repair works and restorations underway on the buildings on the former Brymbo Colliery, Ironworks and Steelworks site to preserve the heritage of the site As part of the redevelopment, plans have now been put forward to create a new community-led solar scheme to help provide renewable electricity to Stori Brymbo. This, the applicants say, is in line with the projects environmentally conscious, low carbon ethos. It would also see the economic benefits of the project remain in the local community The planned grid connection point for the solar scheme will be at the Machine Shop building, which is currently being renovated. If approved, the proposed total capacity of the scheme would be approximately 585kW, with an annual generation of 634MWh/y. Further details of the plans are provided within the applications accompanying design and access statement, which notes that the solar project would be installed across a 1.3 hectare site. The Brymbo solar scheme will comprise multiple solar tables arranged in arrays that will be orientated in a southerly direction and tilted at a 25 angle to maximise their potential to absorb the suns rays, the document continues on to say. Multiple solar arrays are arranged as part of the overall solar scheme infrastructure, and the power output is directed through inverters to the grid connection point at the Machine Shop. A battery will be installed as part of the solar scheme, to store electricity generated by the solar scheme. This electricity can then be used when the solar is not generating, for example in the evening. Electricity that is not utilised on the Stori Brymbo site will be exported to the local distribution network. Such renewable energy generation and capacity reduces the UKs reliance on fossil fuel derived power generation and the associated contribution to global warming and polluting emissions to the environment. The applicants add: The purpose of the proposed scheme is to contribute towards the energy requirements of Stori Brymbo and hence reduce reliance on conventional forms of electricity generation. The scheme will therefore contribute towards the economic sustainability in the area. The scheme would reduce the need for fossil fuel derived fuel and as such would contribute to reductions in greenhouse gases associated with such conventional generation. In addition to contributing to global measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, the scheme would also make a contribution to renewable energy targets in Wrexham. The overall context of the proposed scheme has been considered by the applicant in making its decision on whether to proceed with a scheme at this site. It has been established that the social, economic and policy benefits will provide a significant benefit to the area without detriment to the local community or national interests. Accordingly, the proposed scheme offers worthwhile benefits in the form of clean generation, community cohesion and economic generation without adversely affecting other environmental or planning aspects of the local area. The application will be considered for approval by Wrexham Council at a later date. Conroe Mayor Duke Coon speaks during the grand opening of Landmark 301, a senior living community built in a former hospital building renovated for the project, on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 in Conroe. Montgomery County's first hospital that opened in the 1930s has been turned into affordable housing with 47 units for seniors near downtown Conroe through the Overland Property Group. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Conroe Mayor Duke Coon said he will not enforce a newly-adopted rule restricting public comments in city council meetings, and he'll pay a $1,500 fine for violating the rule if needed. The council approved the changes to the Rules of Procedure, to restrict comments to topics on the agenda, in a 3-1 vote during a special meeting Monday. Mayor Pro Tem Harry Hardman was the nay vote and Councilman Howard Wood was absent. The change sparked outrage from community members who packed the council chambers Monday after several council members, including Coon, posted on Facebook over the weekend that they were not aware of amendments to the meeting procedures before the item was placed on the agenda. Advertisement Article continues below this ad FRIGID TEMPERATURES: Man found dead near Metro bus shelter following freezing temperatures in Houston Coon, along with Hardman and Wood, said they did not support the changes to public comments. Coon, as mayor, only votes to break a tie. I will not support this item, and as the presiding officer over city council meetings, I will refuse to administer this rule if passed by the voting body, Coon stated in a Jan. 3 Facebook post. Conroe Council Candidates Duke Coon testifies as witness during a hearing which the City of Conroe and two council candidates, including Coon, are suing the city secretary to force her to remove Todd Yancey and Curt Maddux from the ballot, Monday, March 25, 2024 at Lee G. Alworth Building in Conroe. Visiting 506th state District Judge Albert McCaig denied injunction at the hearing. The plaintiffs suggested Yancey and Madduxs applications violated state law. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer The new Rules of Procedure also establish a $1,500 fine for the council and mayor for violations. Coon said during the Monday meeting that he would pay the fine under the new rules, which will take effect for the next council meeting. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Councilmember Marsha Porter said she initiated the changes, calling public comment during previous council meetings a three-ring circus. Porter said in the last several months, community members have spoken during council meetings on topics on the agenda and topics that were not. Porter said one issue is that if speakers talk about items not on the agenda, the Texas Open Meetings Act prohibits the council from responding. Council members can only respond to speakers if the subject is on the agenda. Some speakers have used their three minutes to express their frustration with the council over recent actions, including the sale of the Sam Houston School and the closure of the city's West Side Recreation Center. Conroe officials are in discussions with Conroe ISD administrators to purchase the Walter P. Jett Continuing Education Center at North Frazier Street and Lewis Street to turn the space into a performing arts center. The building was once the original Sam Houston Elementary built in 1937. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Porter said changing public comment rules to keep that portion of the meeting aligned with the agenda is what many government entities do. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In April 2018, Montgomery County commissioners changed public comment rules to allow only comments on agenda items before the meeting and anyone with other commentary could speak to the court at the end of the meeting. Porter said Attorney General Ken Paxton offers clear guidelines on how cities can conduct open meetings, and that a government body has broad discretion in exercising its statutory powers regarding the number of people who can speak, for how long, and the frequency of their comments. I want solutions, Porter said. I do not want to limit. This is not denying anyone the right the speak. Porter said she hoped the council could develop a process for residents to speak to the council about non-agenda items. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Councilwoman Shana Arthur said she supported the changes. I have been concerned about the effectiveness of the citizens inquiry portion of the agenda that doesnt pertain to agenda items, Arthur said. Its concerning because comments from our citizens are important and arent followed up on. Councilman David Hairel said the new procedure is designed to eliminate inefficiency, strengthen the citys voice and enable the people and city council to have more constructive, open meeting dialogue. casino name ideasRating twenty five Totally free Revolves on the Membership No-deposit casinos 2 dollar deposit 2024 Promotions-rn casino name ideas ContentHolding the brand new important eCOGRA degree and being licenced because of the Malta Gaming Authority, the new casino ensures their clients a secure and reliable platform. That have quick places, banking choices are numerous, along with Charge, Mastercard, Skrill, and you will Neteller. Courtroom online casinos in the usa offer $10 lowest put, providing you with the best possible opportunity to start to experience your preferred online game instead of damaging the lender. 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Simons applied for the judicial position after the November election. He plans to start hearing cases in late January after closing his criminal defense practice, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He campaigned as a tough-on-crime candidate, claiming Houston crime would increase if voters picked Teare to replace Kim Ogg as district attorney over him. He garnered support from the cash bail industry and secured endorsements from Republican politicians and furniture salesman Jim McIngvale in the November elections final days. Abbott noted Simons' experience as a defense attorney, former prosecutor and military veteran in a news release about the appointment. He obtained his law license in 2012. The appointments continue the courthouse's slight swing to the right after voters went with Republicans in four other felony courts after weeks of conservative-backed advertising aimed at unseating Democratic judges. Simons, like Teare, worked for Harris County District Attorney's Office, rising to chief prosecutor for a misdemeanor court before his 2017 departure, when Ogg started her first term, according to county records. His final months at the office were marked by mixed performance reviews and allegations of questionable ethics. One supervisor lamented that Simons was unprepared and sought to win cases, rather than seek justice. Some presentation of cases were misleading, according to the review. Simons disputed the review. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Another prosecutor accused Simons of instructing her to lie during plea negotiations. A disciplinary committee considered the allegation but said it lacked sufficient evidence. No disciplinary action was taken but Simons was ordered to watch a video on prosecutorial ethics instead, records show. Other lawyers appointed to judicial seats include former Harris County prosecutors Caroline Dozier to the 228th District Court, Peyton Peebles to the 497th District Court, Lance Long to the 183rd District Court and Lori DeAngelo to the 495th District Court. Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with the upcoming launch of the much-anticipated Hyundai CRETA Electric at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Designed to combine innovative technology, all-around safety and electrifying performance, the Hyundai CRETA Electric is poised to become the go-to electric SUV for Indian customers. Speaking about the Hyundai CRETA Electric, Mr. Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, HMIL, said, We are proud to introduce the Hyundai CRETA Electric, which marks a new chapter in the electric vehicle revolution in India. The Hyundai CRETA Electric is not just a car; it is an experience that brings the future of technology, safety and performance to the road today. Our commitment to innovation is reflected in every feature of the Hyundai CRETA Electric. With advanced tech, world-class safety and thrilling performance, India is now ready for the future and the future is Hyundai CRETA Electric. With its tagline "Electric is now CRETA," Hyundai CRETA Electric is ready to push the boundaries of what an electric SUV can offer. The Hyundai CRETA Electric not only meets the aspirations of modern customers but also raises the bar by providing seamless, connected and engaging driving experience. Innovative Technology that Powers the Future The Hyundai CRETA Electric is packed with advanced technology features that ensure convenience, connectivity, and enhanced user experience: In-car Payment : The Hyundai CRETA Electric takes convenience to the next level by allowing customers to pay for EV charging directly from the vehicles infotainment screen. With access to more than 1,150 EV chargers across India, charging is made hassle-free and seamless taking a leap towards the future of car-as-a payment platform. : The Hyundai CRETA Electric takes convenience to the next level by allowing customers to pay for EV charging directly from the vehicles infotainment screen. With access to more than 1,150 EV chargers across India, charging is made hassle-free and seamless taking a leap towards the future of car-as-a payment platform. Digital Key : Embracing the future of smart technology, Hyundai CRETA Electric offers Digital Key, enabling users to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using the smartphone or smartwatch[iii]. : Embracing the future of smart technology, Hyundai CRETA Electric offers Digital Key, enabling users to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using the smartphone or smartwatch[iii]. ADAS Linked Regenerative Braking System: The Hyundai CRETA Electric offers ADAS linked regenerative braking system that automatically senses the distance from the vehicle ahead and accordingly adjusts the regenerative braking level. Shift-by-Wire (SBW): The Hyundai CRETA Electric features a column type design - Shift-by-wire system, offering intuitive gear control with enhanced convenience and a futuristic driving experience. Single Pedal Drive (i-Pedal): The Hyundai CRETA Electric comes equipped with i-Pedal technology that enables the driver to accelerate, decelerate and come to a complete stop using only the accelerator pedal. The car will come to a complete stop just by taking off the feet from the accelerator. The Hyundai CRETA Electric comes equipped with i-Pedal technology that enables the driver to accelerate, decelerate and come to a complete stop using only the accelerator pedal. The car will come to a complete stop just by taking off the feet from the accelerator. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)[iv] : Whether you're camping or in need of an emergency power source, the Hyundai CRETA Electric enables you to power your gadgets and appliances both inside and outside the vehicle, ensuring you never run out of power. : Whether you're camping or in need of an emergency power source, the Hyundai CRETA Electric enables you to power your gadgets and appliances both inside and outside the vehicle, ensuring you never run out of power. Dual Curvilinear Screens : The 26.03cm (10.25) Dual Curvilinear screen with HD infotainment and a digital cluster provide a futuristic cockpit experience, with all the important EV specific information available with one touch. : The 26.03cm (10.25) Dual Curvilinear screen with HD infotainment and a digital cluster provide a futuristic cockpit experience, with all the important EV specific information available with one touch. Premium in-car experience : The Hyundai CRETA Electric is equipped with Bose premium sound 8 speaker system offering enhanced audio quality. With complimentary[v] in-car music streaming via Jio Saavan subscription, your favorite tunes are always just a tap away. : The Hyundai CRETA Electric is equipped with Bose premium sound 8 speaker system offering enhanced audio quality. With complimentary[v] in-car music streaming via Jio Saavan subscription, your favorite tunes are always just a tap away. Advanced Climate Control : The Hyundai CRETA Electric features touch type Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (DATC) with driver-only mode and ventilated front seats for maximizing comfort. The vehicle is also equipped with cooled glove box and front armrest with cooled storage. : The Hyundai CRETA Electric features touch type Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (DATC) with driver-only mode and ventilated front seats for maximizing comfort. The vehicle is also equipped with cooled glove box and front armrest with cooled storage. Intelligent Voice Commands : With 268 embedded voice commands, including a voice-enabled smart panoramic sunroof, the Hyundai CRETA Electric ensures you have complete control of the car. : With 268 embedded voice commands, including a voice-enabled smart panoramic sunroof, the Hyundai CRETA Electric ensures you have complete control of the car. Hyundai Bluelink Connectivity: More than 70 connected features with Hyundai Bluelink enhance convenience and security keep you connected to your Hyundai CRETA Electric at all times. All-Around Safety The Hyundai CRETA Electric is engineered to offer all-around safety to its occupants, with a range of advanced features to provide peace of mind on every journey: Strong Body Structure : The vehicle is built with enhanced use of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), and High Strength Steel (HSS), with an extensive application of hot stamping to assure superior protection. It ensures a robust and protective frame that contributes to a safe driving experience. : The vehicle is built with enhanced use of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS), and High Strength Steel (HSS), with an extensive application of hot stamping to assure superior protection. It ensures a robust and protective frame that contributes to a safe driving experience. Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 ADAS: 19 tech-enabled safety functions, including Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Collision Warning, Smart Cruise control with stop and go, Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 ADAS deliver a comprehensive safety suite. More than 75 advanced safety features and 52 safety features as standard across all variants envelop customers in a safety cocoon. Safety features as standard across all variants: Six airbags All-wheel disc brakes Electronic parking brakes (EPB) with auto hold Hill -Start Assist Control (HAC) and Hill Descent Control (HDC) Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) o Child Seat Anchor (ISOFIX) o Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) The Hyundai CRETA Electric also includes additional safety features like surround view monitor (SVM), blind-spot view monitor (BVM), rain sensing wipers, front parking sensors, digital key etc., offering all-around safety and driver assistance. Electrifying Performance Built to thrill, the Hyundai CRETA Electric offers an electrifying performance: Impressive Acceleration : From 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds[vi], the Hyundai CRETA Electric delivers rapid acceleration, making it the perfect SUV for thrill-seekers and daily commuters alike. : From 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds[vi], the Hyundai CRETA Electric delivers rapid acceleration, making it the perfect SUV for thrill-seekers and daily commuters alike. Powerful and Efficient Battery : Available in two variants, the Hyundai CRETA Electric is powered by a 51.4 kWh battery pack (long-range) offering 473 km[vii] on full charge and a 42 kWh battery pack offering 390 km[viii] of range. : Available in two variants, the Hyundai CRETA Electric is powered by a 51.4 kWh battery pack (long-range) offering 473 km[vii] on full charge and a 42 kWh battery pack offering 390 km[viii] of range. Powerful Performance : 51.4 kWh battery pack (long-range) variant generates 126 kW (171 PS) of power and the 42 kWh battery pack variant offers 99 kW (135 PS) power. : 51.4 kWh battery pack (long-range) variant generates 126 kW (171 PS) of power and the 42 kWh battery pack variant offers 99 kW (135 PS) power. Battery Heater: The battery heater ensures maximized charging performance and range in cold weather conditions. The battery heater ensures maximized charging performance and range in cold weather conditions. 11 kW Smart Connected Wall Box Charger: The Hyundai CRETA Electric can get charged from 10% to 100% in just 4 hours[ix] using the 11 kW smart connected wall box charger (AC Home Charging). The charger comes with smart connectivity and users can operate it directly from myHyundai App. The Hyundai CRETA Electric can get charged from 10% to 100% in just 4 hours[ix] using the 11 kW smart connected wall box charger (AC Home Charging). The charger comes with smart connectivity and users can operate it directly from myHyundai App. myHyundai app Smart Connectivity Features: Remote charging start/stop Auto schedule charging OTA software updates Control and monitor charging sessions User-friendly dashboard Remote notifications Fast Charging using DC Charger: The Hyundai CRETA Electric can be charged from 10%-80% in just 58 minutes, ensuring long journeys are never interrupted. The Hyundai CRETA Electric can be charged from 10%-80% in just 58 minutes, ensuring long journeys are never interrupted. Active Air Flaps (AAF)[x]: To maximize energy efficiency, the Hyundai CRETA Electric is equipped with Active Air Flaps (AAF), to cool vehicle parts and enhance aerodynamics. Hyundai Motor India Limited is all set to launch the Hyundai CRETA Electric at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. Also Read: Indias Ready: Electric is CRETA Hyundais new tvc inspires change Meta Platforms, formerly Facebook Inc., has appealed to the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) against a Rs 213.1 crore penalty imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). The CCI found that WhatsApp abused its dominant position by enforcing its 2021 privacy policy, which compelled users to accept expanded data sharing with other Meta companies without a proper opt-out option. The CCI's investigation concluded that WhatsApp's actions: Restricted user choice: The "take-it-or-leave-it" approach limited user control over their data. Hampered competition: Data sharing with other Meta entities hindered the growth of competitors in the messaging and online advertising markets. The CCI ordered WhatsApp to: Cease data sharing with other Meta companies for advertising purposes for five years. Obtain explicit user consent for any future data sharing with Meta subsidiaries. Provide an opt-out option for all Indian users, including those who accepted the 2021 update. Meta, represented by senior counsels Kapil Sibal and Mukul Rohatgi, argued that the CCI's order has broad implications for the industry. The NCLAT has scheduled a hearing on January 16th. Also Read: Meta appoints Joel Kaplan as Global Policy Head, replacing Nick Clegg ITV Network and India News organised Shaurya Samman 2025 at Taj Mahal Hotel in Lucknow on Monday, 6 January 2025, honouring police officers, army and paramilitary personnel from Uttar Pradesh. This event has been continuously held for the past decade. Honble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath participated as the chief guest and honoured 17 martyrs with the Shaurya Samman award. CM Yogi honoured the 17 martyrs who laid down their lives for the country, including Lance Naik Martyr Sudama Ram, Martyr Captain Shubham Gupta, Head Constable Martyr Shashikant Tiwari, Major Martyr Narendra Kumar Tuli, Lance Naik Martyr Ranjit Singh, Martyr Pankaj Tripathi, Constable Martyr Ram Samujh Yadav, Jawan Martyr Ramesh Yadav, Martyr Havildar Devi Prakash Singh, Constable Martyr Ram Lal Ram, Lance Naik Martyr Rajesh Kumar Yadav, Havildar Martyr Kunwar Singh Chaudhary, Section Commander Martyr Raja Singh, Martyr Captain Manoj Pandey, Police Inspector Martyr Anil Kumar Maurya, Constable Martyr Narendra Kumar Tiwari, and Constable Martyr Harshvardhan Singh Bisen. The families of the martyrs received the honour from the Chief Minister. Chief Minister Yogi honoured retired Major Dhirendra Nath Singh of the Kumaon Regiment, who was awarded the Veer Chakra for his exceptional war skills in the 1965 war. The Chief Minister also honoured the families of martyrs and talented individuals from Uttar Pradesh, including renowned actors Vineet Kumar Singh, Kushal Tandon, and Aahana Kumra. CM Yogi praised India News, saying that ITV Network's tribute to the brave hearts who sacrificed everything for the country's security is a great national responsibility. The Shaurya Samman ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma, Chairperson of The Sunday Guardian Foundation Dr. Aishwarya Pandit Sharma, and BJP MLA from Kalka, Haryana, Shakti Rani Sharma. Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, several ministers from the UP government, ADG Law and Order Amitabh Yash, and other notable personalities also graced the occasion. MP Kartikeya Sharma conferred the Shaurya Samman award upon several police personnel, including DSP Vimal Kumar Singh, DSP Navendu Kumar, Inspector Gyanendra Kumar Rai, Head Constable Sunil Kumar, Head Constable Sushil Kumar, Inspector Jitendra Kumar Singh, Sub-Inspector Rakesh Kumar Singh Chauhan, Head Constable Anil Kumar, Head Constable Hariom, Sub-Inspector Jitendra Pratap Singh, Constable Vipin Kumar, and Inspector Rajiv Chaudhary. Additionally, Inspector Aruna Rai was honoured with the Shaurya Samman award for her remarkable contribution to Mission Shakti. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stated that a martyr's sacrifice is the very essence of a community's existence. The long legacy of sacrifices made for the nation and faith has consistently infused society with renewed vitality. The CM also referenced Prime Minister Modi's ambitious vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047, as part of the Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. Furthermore, he highlighted PM Modi's Panch Pran initiative, emphasising the imperative to eradicate residual colonial influences, honour illustrious personalities, and pay tribute to security forces. The Chief Minister highlighted the pivotal role of jawans who safeguard the nation's borders, braving extreme temperatures and weather conditions. Despite temperatures plummeting to -20, -25, and -10 degrees Celsius, jawans remain vigilant, day and night, to protect the country. The police force also conducts relentless patrols to instil a sense of security among the general public. The Chief Minister emphasised that failing to honour the jawans of the army, paramilitary, and police forces, or neglecting the families of martyrs, would be a dereliction of national duty. He highlighted the importance of recognising the contributions of jawans who participated in the 1965-1971 war against Pakistan, as well as the families of martyrs and jawans who have been part of various operations within the country. The Chief Minister stressed that security is the cornerstone of a civilised society. He also emphasised the need to strike a balance between individual freedom and responsibility, ensuring that personal liberties do not infringe upon the rights of others. Citing the Constitution framed by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, he noted that good governance is the primary condition for security. Consequently, honouring jawans who work tirelessly to establish good governance is essential for fulfilling national responsibilities. UP's ADG Law and Order, Amitabh Yash, stated that people now have complete faith in the law. He also mentioned that the presence of gangs in Uttar Pradesh has been eradicated, with smaller gangs fleeing the state. Regarding the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, the ADG assured that advanced security measures are in place, including surveillance technology to monitor all movements within the fairgrounds. UP's Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak, cited that criminals in the state now fear the law, and development is progressing, with every district receiving a full power supply. He emphasised the government's goal of advancing Uttar Pradesh on the path of development. The Deputy Chief Minister also confirmed that preparations for the Prayagraj Mahakumbh are in order, with arrangements made for the health and security of devotees and tourists. Aishwarya Pandit Sharma, Chairperson of The Sunday Guardian Foundation, thanked UP CM Yogi Adityanath for supporting ITV network Shaurya Samman ceremony. She also stated that ITV Network will continue to honour brave-hearts nationwide, and also praised the UP government's efforts in making the state crime-free and corruption-free since 2017. Also Read: India News Uttar Pradesh-Uttarakhand Hosts aShaurya Sammana Former President Jimmy Carter smiles as he attends an autograph session for his book "Sharing Good Times" at Borders Books and Music Dec. 15, 2004, in Westwood, California. (Mark Mainz/Getty Images/TNS) Mark Mainz/TNS ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 05: Fareed Covington places flowers in a makeshift memorial outside the Carter Presidential Center on January 05, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Carter will lay in repose at the center during six days of funeral observances after he died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100. President Carter was the longest-living U.S. President in history. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Joe Raedle/Getty Images Members of the joint services military honor guard stand at attention as mourners view the casket of former President Jimmy Carter as he lies in repose at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Carter died Dec. 29 at the age of 100. (Erik S. Lesser/Pool via AP) Erik S. Lesser/Associated Press The hearse carrying the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter moves through downtown Plains, Ga., Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) Mike Stewart/Associated Press Funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, began Saturday and conclude Thursday. Carter, the longest-living American president at 100 when he died, was a peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War. He redefined his life after the White House as a global humanitarian. Carter died Dec. 29 in Plains, Georgia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Here's what to know about services and tributes planned nationally and in Houston. How to pay tribute in Houston In Houston, Carter and his late wife, Rosalynn, partnered with Habitat for Humanity to lead an effort to build 100 homes in just one week in 1998. Approximately 6,000 volunteers including 4,000 from Houston endured temperatures nearing 100 degrees for the effort that took place June 14-20, 1998. On Tuesday, officials with the City of Houston, led by Mayor John Whitmire, and Houston Habitat for Humanity will join Habitat for Humanity organizations around the world in honoring Carter's countless contributions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Houston Habitat will raise a wall with a door in it to symbolize the many doors of opportunity that Carter helped make possible through his life of service to others. The public is invited to pay personal tribute to Carter by signing the wall and door with their name or personal message. The memorial event from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday will take place at the Houston Public Library Downtown - Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza, 500 McKinney Street in Houston. The public will be able to sign the memorial wall at the same location from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. Memorials in Georgia Six days of funeral observances for former President Jimmy Carter began Saturday in Georgia. Saturday's procession passed by Carter's boyhood home in Plains and the church where he and wife, Rosalynn Smith Carter, were married. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The motorcade then traveled to Atlanta for a stop outside the Georgia Capitol and paused at The Carter Center, established by the former president and first lady in 1982. From Saturday evening through early Tuesday, the public is invited to pay their respects at the Carter Center in Atlanta. From Georgia to Washington According to the Associated Press, Carters remains will travel next to Washington, where he will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda until his funeral at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Washington National Cathedral. All the living presidents have been invited, and Joe Biden, a Carter ally, will deliver a eulogy. The Carter family then will return to bury its patriarch in Plains after a private hometown funeral at 3:45 p.m. at Maranatha Baptist Church, where Carter, a devout evangelical, taught Sunday School for decades. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Carter will be buried afterward in a private graveside service adjacent to Rosalynn Smith Carter who died at age 96 in November 2023. President Biden has declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning in the United States, in recognition of the passing of Carter. Flag protocol calls for the American flag to be flown at half staff for a 30-day period ending Jan. 28. Carter's funeral service will be live-streamed from the Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza at 10 a.m. Thursday. Michael Garcia contributed to this report. In a landmark event for the global Telugu business community, Telugu Angels was officially launched by the Honorable Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N Chandrababu Naidu, at the Business Leadership Summit of the World Telugu Federations (WTF) 12th Bi-Annual Conference. This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower Telugu entrepreneurs to build and scale their ventures globally by providing strategic capital, mentorship, and a collaborative ecosystem supported by a global network of resources. Telugu Angels reflects the growing global recognition of Telugu talent, celebrated for its leadership, innovation, and excellence across industries. The network aspires to create a transformative impact by serving as a key cross-border go-to-market enabler, uniting seasoned entrepreneurs, visionary investors, and successful business leaders. Addressing the audience after the launch of Telugu Angels, Shri N Chandrababu Naidu said: Today, Telugus are celebrated for their leadership, innovation, and excellence across industries, from corporate roles to entrepreneurship. The launch of Telugu Angels is a significant step in this journey of Vision 2047 and I believe this initiative will be one of the key enablers. I am committed to supporting the Telugu entrepreneurs and confident that Telugu Angels will create a game-changing impact. I invite all global CXOs and Founders to be part of this Angels Network. Siddharth Marupeddi, the driving force behind Telugu Angels, expressed his excitement about this milestone: Its been 10 years since we launched StartAP as a key startup ecosystem enabler and today it gives me immense pride to launch a larger global network that strengthens Telugu Founders, CXOs and seasoned entrepreneurs worldwide. This fund underscores the commitment to creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem while fostering collaboration among the Telugu diaspora globally Telugu Angels is also making strategic partnerships with global investor networks and accelerators and is set to launch a strategic investing group comprising prominent Unicorn and Soonicorn founders. Krishna Ella, Founder of Bharat Biotech and one of the first members of the fund, said: I congratulate the launch of Telugu Angels and am happy to mention that I am one of the first contributors of the ambitious fund. I look forward to seeing more passionate telugu biotech entrepreneurs join the network. Rishikesh SR, Founder of Rapido, present during the launch, said: "As a founder, I understand the value of having a strong network and Im confident that Telugu Angels will empower many young founders to dream big, innovate, and scale their ventures on a global stage." In the ever-evolving digital landscape in India, Protean eGov Technologies has quietly played a pivotal role in shaping the nations digital infrastructure. From powering pensions to facilitating PAN card issuance, Proteans impact is felt by millions of Indians every day. To bring this story to life, Protean recently launched a unique campaign, titled Apni Kahaani ka Hero, featuring actor Pankaj Tripathi. In this interaction with Adgully, Gaurav Ramdev, Chief Growth & Marketing Officer, Protean, delves into the intricacies of this innovative campaign, shedding light on the role of AI in shaping Proteans storytelling, and sharing his vision for the future of marketing in the digital age. Ramdev, a seasoned marketing leader at Protean, is at the forefront of driving brand awareness and customer engagement. With a deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape, he has spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives, including the recent Apni Kahaani ka Hero campaign. This interview explores Proteans journey of digital transformation, the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving digital landscape, and the companys vision for the future, where technology empowers individuals and shapes a more inclusive digital India. What are the headwinds and tailwinds that you see shaping the Fintech sector in 2025? The marketing and advertising sector is at its fascinating best. We are seeing successful tailwinds like the advent of AI and its proper use in content and copy generation. A decade ago, we viewed digital transformation and digital media as an afterthought, a mere sprinkle on the final dish. Now, more and more brands are becoming digital-first brands. The use of AI in marketing is a strong tailwind, driving digital transformation towards digital-first content. DTH subscriber decline highlights the shift in consumer behavior. Digital transformation is accelerating rapidly, especially with AI democratizing creativity. Previously, marketing involved lengthy agency briefs and months-long production cycles. Now, with AI tools and streamlined processes, this can be achieved in weeks. However, this decentralization of creativity also presents challenges: Increased Expectations: Brands must now compete with high-quality user-generated content powered by AI. Brands must now compete with high-quality user-generated content powered by AI. Shrinking Attention Spans: Demands for hyper-personalized content will increase, requiring marketers to focus on compelling storytelling and emotional connections. Demands for hyper-personalized content will increase, requiring marketers to focus on compelling storytelling and emotional connections. The Rise of N=1: The goal shifts from mass reach to individual targeting. Marketers must deliver highly personalized experiences, addressing the unique interests of each individual consumer (e.g., serving an education loan ad to a student). Please elaborate on the Apni Kahaani ka Hero campaign. What is the core concept behind the campaign? Which agency has worked on the campaign, and what was the creative brief given to the agency? Two years ago, I joined Protean Egov Technologies with the goal of building a strong brand identity. Since then, a key question has been: What is Protean? Our initial rebranding campaign, change is growth, communicated the shift from NSDL Egov to Protean, emphasizing our evolution into a technology company building digital public infrastructure for India. This campaign aimed to showcase our innovation and agility, positioning Protean as a provider of a diverse range of digital public infrastructure products. However, while people interacted with our services (like NPS, PAN issuance, eKYC), they often lacked a comprehensive understanding of Proteans overall capabilities. This year, we launched a new campaign, Protean: Impacting everyone, Every day, with a human-centric approach. We partnered with Pankaj Tripathi, a renowned actor, to tell the story of how Protean enables the aspirations of everyday Indians, from a young student in Bhubaneswar to a retired pensioner in West Bengal. This campaign, crafted by Ogilvy, highlights Proteans role as an enabler, empowering individuals to achieve their goals. We believe, this campaign will effectively communicate Proteans value proposition to the Indian public. In most celebrity endorsements, the celebrity plays the protagonist. However, in Proteans campaign, Pankaj Tripathi portrays the role of a narrator. How does this approach align with Proteans brand identity and messaging? Our approach to celebrity endorsement was unconventional. Instead of selecting a celebrity to be the protagonist, we chose Pankaj Tripathi to embody the ordinary Indian. We sought to tell the story of an average person, someone from a small town with big dreams, much like Pankaj Tripathis own inspiring journey from a small village in Bihar to Bollywood stardom. This resonated deeply with Proteans mission, which is to empower everyday Indians. Pankaj Tripathis role in the campaign is not as a hero, but as a sutradhar a storyteller. He narrates the stories of 1.45 billion Indians, showcasing how Protean enables their aspirations. This approach reflects Proteans brand values: humility, authenticity, and a focus on empowering individuals rather than self-promotion. Protean has been a silent worker in building the foundation of Digital India for 28 years, much like Pankaj Tripathis journey of quiet dedication and hard work. This partnership aligns perfectly with Proteans commitment to empowering individuals and enabling a better future for all. How is Protean addressing the issue of digital literacy among its user base? Technology adoption follows a curve. Initially, early adopters drive word-of-mouth, followed by gradual mass adoption. This is evident in the evolution of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which took over a decade to achieve widespread usage. Even seemingly rapid advancements like Aadhaar and UPI have taken years to reach mass adoption. Similarly, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is demonstrating this gradual scaling. Several factors influence digital adoption, including: Digital Literacy: The ability to navigate digital platforms and understand online information is crucial. The ability to navigate digital platforms and understand online information is crucial. Vernacular Support: Access to information and services in local languages is essential for widespread adoption. Access to information and services in local languages is essential for widespread adoption. Trust and Security: Building trust in digital platforms and ensuring data security are paramount. Protean plays a crucial role in fostering digital adoption by: Establishing Trust: We emphasize transparency and security in all our communications and operations. We emphasize transparency and security in all our communications and operations. Building a Strong Brand: Our logo and brand identity serve as a seal of trust for consumers. Our logo and brand identity serve as a seal of trust for consumers. Focusing on User Experience: We prioritize user-friendly interfaces and provide offline support channels. While mass adoption takes time, initiatives like ONDC and government-led digital literacy programs are accelerating the process. It is important to remember that digital adoption is a continuous journey, not an overnight event. By focusing on building trust, improving user experience, and addressing digital literacy concerns, Protean can effectively contribute to the growth of a truly inclusive digital India. As your campaign is digital-first, how do you plan to address the challenge of ad fatigue in todays age of digital saturation? In todays digital world, a digital-first approach is no longer a choice, but a necessity. However, this presents a significant challenge: consumer overload. With countless messages vying for attention, cutting through the noise requires a strategic approach. Protean addresses this by prioritizing high-quality content that resonates with our audience. We focus on authentic storytelling, emphasizing emotional connections and creativity over flashy, short-lived ads. This shift in focus aims to build meaningful relationships with our audience rather than simply delivering advertisements. Furthermore, we leverage data-driven targeting to ensure our messages reach the right individuals. By moving beyond traditional demographic segmentation, we focus on interest-based targeting. This allows us to connect with individuals based on their specific interests, regardless of age or location. To further enhance our reach, we are exploring innovative formats and platforms. This includes venturing into new areas like meme marketing and podcast integrations, while also leveraging influencer marketing to amplify our message. In essence, our strategy revolves around creating compelling content that resonates with our audience, utilizing data-driven insights to effectively target our messages, and exploring innovative channels to reach our target audience. By focusing on building meaningful connections rather than simply delivering advertisements, we believe Protean can effectively navigate the evolving digital landscape and achieve sustained success. Given Proteans increased focus on digital marketing initiatives like podcasts and meme marketing, what kind of marketing and advertising budget and media mix have you planned for 2025? While I cant disclose the exact budget figures due to our public listing, I can provide some context. Our campaign aims to reach approximately 30 million consumers, focusing on individuals with high interest in finance, government affairs, and Indian news. This will involve a multi-channel digital approach, with minimal offline spend. Our offline activities will be strategically targeted towards key decision-makers in the BFSI sector through print and outdoor campaigns. The core of our campaign focuses on digital channels, with a planned reach of 30 million consumers and a frequency cap of 25 impressions per consumer over 12 weeks. This translates to a significant number of impressions. To maintain engagement and avoid campaign fatigue, we will introduce a variety of content formats, including more than 15-18 different creative executions featuring Pankaj Tripathi. This dynamic approach will ensure the campaign remains fresh and engaging throughout its duration. How AI is shaping the storytelling aspect for brands and how is Protean leveraging AI? AI is significantly impacting our storytelling at Protean. Weve integrated it deeply across our workflow, starting with the very foundation of our campaigns. For instance, we used AI tools like Metas Imagine and ChatGPT to develop the creative brief for our recent campaign, transforming a traditional document into an immersive experience that effectively communicated the essence of digital public infrastructure. Beyond the initial brief, AI is instrumental in content creation. We leverage AI to generate blog posts, craft compelling social media captions, and design visually appealing imagery. Tools like Canva and Adobe Creative Suite are integrated into our workflow to enhance the creative process. However, we view AI not merely as a tool for increased efficiency, but as a creative co-pilot. It assists us in every aspect of our work, from drafting emails to planning social media calendars and even developing intricate campaign strategies. Furthermore, AI plays a crucial role in our pursuit of personalized storytelling. We are moving beyond broad audience targeting and leveraging AI to understand individual interests and preferences, enabling us to deliver highly personalized messages and experiences. This aligns with our vision of achieving N=1 personalization, where each individual receives content tailored specifically to their unique needs and interests. Finally, AI is instrumental in enhancing our reputation management efforts. We utilize AI-powered tools to monitor online conversations, analyze sentiment, and proactively address customer concerns. This includes leveraging AI-powered chatbots and agents to automate responses to common customer inquiries on social media, improving efficiency and enhancing customer experience. In essence, AI is not a replacement for human creativity at Protean; it's an invaluable partner that empowers our team to push creative boundaries, deliver personalized experiences, and build stronger relationships with our audience. According to you, what will be the next major disruptor in digital marketing? How is Protean preparing for it? The future of marketing lies in creating seamless, branded ecosystems. Today, customer experiences vary significantly across different platforms (e-commerce websites, marketplaces, etc.). However, I envision a future where these experiences are interconnected, creating a consistent and trustworthy brand experience regardless of the platform. This integrated ecosystem will be further enhanced by immersive technologies. With advancements in 5G and beyond, we can expect a surge in augmented and virtual reality experiences. Imagine trying on a shoe virtually, experiencing a financial product through an interactive simulation these immersive experiences will deepen customer engagement and build stronger brand loyalty. Ultimately, the goal is to shift from a product-centric approach to a customer-centric one. Instead of pushing products, we should focus on understanding and fulfilling customer needs. This can be achieved by creating an ecosystem where customers can easily find and access the products and services that best suit their needs, all within a trusted and seamless environment. Imagine a future where a single search bar on a brands website is all a customer needs to find any product or service offered by that brand. This vision represents a future where technology empowers brands to truly understand and serve their customers in a personalized and meaningful way. Ajit Pawar Sparks Controversy: 'You Don't Own Me,' Snaps at Public Demands in Baramati 2 Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar stirred controversy during a public event in Baramati on Sunday by snapping at attendees who presented him with numerous petitions. Visibly irritated, Pawar declared, You have voted for me, but that doesnt mean you own me, and questioned whether the public had made him their servant. The remarks from the senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader drew criticism and reignited debates about politicians accountability to their constituents. #WATCH | Ajit Pawar Sparks Controversy, Snaps at Public Demands in Baramati Visibly irritated, Pawar declared, "You have voted for me, but that doesnt mean you own me," and questioned whether the public had made him their servant.#AjitPawar #Controversy #Baramati pic.twitter.com/ee5ub2BYGk Afternoon Voice (@Afternoon_Voice) January 7, 2025 In contrast, Maharashtra BJP chief and state cabinet minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule underscored the importance of public trust, stating on Monday, It is the people who bring leaders to power, and fulfilling their promises is the governments priority. Pawars outburst has left political circles buzzing, with many questioning the implications of such a statement from a leader of his stature. Image: PTI India has confirmed two more cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Nagpur, Maharashtra, involving a 13-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy. This brings the total number of infections in the country to eight, as the virusfirst identified in Chinaraises concerns over its similarities to the initial stages of COVID-19. HMPV recently garnered global attention following a surge of cases in China. While the Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat governments have assured citizens there is no immediate cause for panic, Delhi has taken proactive measures, directing hospitals to prepare for a possible rise in respiratory illnesses. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) detected the countrys earlier cases in Karnataka during routine surveillance of respiratory pathogens. In light of the growing tally, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public, stating that HMPV is not a new threat. Health experts have clarified that HMPV, identified in 2001, has been circulating globally for many years. The virus spreads through the air, typically via respiration, he said during a Monday briefing. While no fatalities have been reported in India, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate any potential escalation in cases. Mumbai Jewelry Scam Unveiled: Torres Jewellers Owners Accused of 13.48 Crore Fraud, Investors in Uproar 2 A massive financial scam has rocked Mumbai, with Torres Jewellers accused of defrauding investors of over 13.48 crore. The Shivaji Park Police have filed an FIR against the companys directors and CEO, following complaints from scores of investors who gathered outside the companys Dadar office demanding the return of their money after promised returns abruptly stopped. The FIR, registered under Sections 318(4), 316(5), and 61 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Sections 3 and 4 of the Maharashtra Protection of Interest of Depositors (MPID) Act, names Platinum Hern Pvt. Ltd., which operates the Torres Jewellers brand. The accused include directors Sarvesh Ashok Surve and Victoria Kovalenko, CEO Taufik Riaz alias John Carter, General Manager Tania Casatova, and Store In-Charge Valentina Kumar. The case has now been handed over to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) for further investigation, but no arrests have been made yet. Investors, many of whom had invested substantial sums, claim they were lured into schemes offering a guaranteed 10% weekly return. For over a year, the company appeared to honor its promises, maintaining regular payouts until December 2024. However, payments abruptly ceased two weeks ago, sparking outrage and panic among investors. Police were deployed at the companys premises to manage the growing crowd of frustrated victims. The fraudulent scheme involved enticing investors to purchase moissanite stones and gems with a promise of an 11% weekly cashback on the purchase value for one year. A 1 lakh investment was assured to yield 11,000 weekly, translating into a staggering 5.72 lakh in returns within a yearan unsustainable 400% profit. The firms tactics included flashy interactive sessions, expensive giveaways, and aggressive social media campaigns to attract potential investors. DCP (Zone I) Prakash Gaikwad stated, Based on a complaint received two days ago, we initiated investigations; however, the showroom was already closed. The process to register an offence at the Navghar police station was underway. With growing allegations and the discovery of more victims, the financial losses could potentially run into crores. The unfolding scandal has left investors angry and desperate, while the accused remain at large, raising urgent questions about regulatory oversight and investor protection. Sharad Pawar's NCP Faces Exodus: 8 MPs Poised to Join Ajit Pawar's Camp 2 In a dramatic political shift, at least eight Members of Parliament from the Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) are reportedly on the verge of defecting to Ajit Pawars faction. Sources indicate that these MPs are in advanced talks with Ajit Pawars camp and are likely to make their move soon. This development marks a significant blow to Sharad Pawars leadership, as Ajit Pawars faction, recognised by the Election Commission of India (ECI) as the real NCP, has already gained control of the partys name and poll symbol. The defection is being seen as a major setback for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Maharashtra and the oppositions INDIA bloc. It follows Ajit Pawars faction and the ruling Mahayuti alliances sweeping victory in the recent Maharashtra Assembly elections, further consolidating their influence. The NCP split dates back to July 2023, when Ajit Pawar, along with other key leaders, broke away from Sharad Pawars camp to join the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance government. Since then, speculation has been rife about Sharad Pawars next political moves, with some sources hinting at the possibility of his own alignment with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance. This looming defection could redefine Maharashtras political landscape, further tilting power dynamics in favor of Ajit Pawars camp while leaving Sharad Pawar grappling with dwindling support. Actor Aubrey Plaza broke her silence Monday on the recent death of her husband, Jeff Baena, saying it was an unimaginable tragedy and asking for privacy. Baena, an independent filmmaker, died Friday at his Los Feliz residence, according to the Los Angeles County coroners office, which determined the cause of death to be suicide. He was 47. This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support, Plaza and the Baena and Stern families said in a statement shared with the Los Angeles Times. Please respect our privacy during this time. Baenas death prompted Plaza to step aside from her duties presenting the 82nd Golden Globes in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. Baena directed Plaza in his 2017 dark comedy film The Little Hours and co-wrote David O. Russells 2004 comedy movie I Heart Huckabees. The pair began dating in 2001 and were married in May 2021. Baena is also survived by his mother, Barbara Stern; father Scott Baena; stepfather Roger Stern; stepmother Michele Baena; brother Brad Baena; stepsister Bianca Gabay; and stepbrother Jed Fluxman. _____ (If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call 9-8-8. The United States first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline 988 will connect callers with trained mental health counselors. Text HOME to 741741 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Crisis Text Line.) _____ 2025 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The clock on the sign for the First National Bank of Pell City was stopped at the time the twister struck: 4:11 p.m. It was one of 13 tornadoes to strike Alabama on Jan. 10, 1975. Afterward, so many people crowded into the St. Clair County hospital that the local National Guard Armory was used as a medical annex, according to a Jan. 11 article in the Birmingham Post-Herald. The fiercest of the storms that day followed a 19-mile path from Pell City to Ragland, injuring dozens of people living in a mobile home park and killing one man at a service station. The tornado that hit Pell City and Ragland was later ranked as an EF-3, with winds up to 165 mph. The other tornadoes were less powerful and ranked lower, with three listed as EF-2 on the Fujita scale and nine ranked EF-1, according to the National Weather Service. As storms pummeled Alabama, tornadoes also struck Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida, killing at least 13 people nationwide. Tornado watches were issued for 63 of Alabamas 67 counties that day. The National Weather Service said tornadoes touched down in these counties: Tuscaloosa, Mobile, Marengo, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Baldwin, Montgomery, Macon, Lee and Cleburne. The outbreak occurred just nine months after 87 Alabamians died in the Super Outbreak of April 3, 1974 the second most devasting tornadic event in recorded Alabama history. People were wary. They knew to heed the warnings. 50th commemoration to be held The Pell City Historical Society has planned an event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the storm. It will be held Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, at The Venue on 20th Street in Pell City. Renowned Alabama meteorologist James Spann will give a presentation on the damage done that day. Find more information here. In addition, the Pell City Museum will host an exhibit called In the Path of Destruction. It begins Jan. 10. A hundred freight trains running over my house The morning of Jan. 10 began with news of a terrible blizzard buffeting Midwestern states one that would eventually kill more than 30 people yet forecasts in Birmingham posted an unseasonably warm high of 67 degrees. Severe weather began at 2 p.m. when the first twister, an EF-1, touched down in western Jefferson County, according to the Birmingham Post-Herald article. Throughout that day and evening, smaller tornadoes struck cities across central and south Alabama. Pell Citys EF-3 tornado struck with vengeance. One man, who said his family survived by taking shelter in a closet, said the tornado sounded like a hundred freight trains running over my house, The Birmingham Post-Herald reported. It hit not long after 4 p.m., a time that may have led to less loss of life, according to an editorial in the St. News Aegis. It could have been the time of day. It could have been because a lot of the younger people who live in mobile homes both work and had their children in kindergarten. It could have been because it was just about the time most people were not in those 250-odd homes that were seriously or totally demolished. Meteorologist Robert M. Ferry added that there were no injuries in the trailer park because residents had taken shelter in a nearby brick building. Still, the devastated town of Pell City located 34 miles east of Birmingham and home to about 6,000 residents at the time would need time to recover. There was a terrific amount of damage for such a small area, C.J. Sullivan, then Civil Defense director, told the Birmingham Post-Herald. Damage in Pell City totaled $5 million (about $30 million today), according to the 1990 book Significant Tornadoes: A Chronology of Events, by T.P. Grazulis. The destruction included 49 homes destroyed, 259 homes damaged, 15 mobile homes destroyed and 27 business damaged. In the nearby community of Ragland, $2 million in damages were reported, including five homes destroyed and 48 homes damaged, Grazulis wrote. At the mobile home park, nearly all the trailers were leveled. A rescue worker was quoted in The Anniston Star the next day as saying of Smith Trailer Park: Its just not there anymore. St. Clair County hospital overflowed. The towns hospital became so crowded with injured persons some had to be sent to a nearby National Guard armory for treatment, the article said, and the National Guard unit was mobilized after reports of looting in the downtown section. Never the same again The man killed in Ragland was working at Perrys Standard Service, which was constructed using concrete blocks, the National Weather Service reported. The building, owned by James Perry, collapsed on top of Ross Phillips Jr., who was 49 years old and the father of nine children. He is buried in Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery in Ragland. Newspapers initially said two people had died in the tornado. The Post-Herald later reported that one death occurred before the storm, saying Willie Holsemback of Helena was pronounced dead at the scene of a car crash just seconds before the tornado struck. The Associated Press, however, reported that the traffic accident was caused by the twister. In her 2001 book Through the Storm, Glenda Emigh wrote that residents ...mark time as either before or after the tornado because the town was never the same again. Places heavily damaged or destroyed included the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City, Pell City City Hall, Ragland High School, a shopping center on U.S. Highway 231, three churches and Duran Junior High. Then-Gov. George Wallace asked President Gerald Ford to declare 10 Alabama counties as disaster areas to receive federal aid, The Anniston Star reported on Jan. 26, 1975. In the weeks that followed, residents showed their resilience and Pell City was rebuilt. At Perrys Standard Service, the owner erected a sign in the wake of the storm: Its good to be alive, it read. Alabama has elected 190 members to the U.S. House for over 205 years, but it achieved a first last week: Two Black residents from Alabama took the oath of office to serve in the U.S. House at the same time. Democratic U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham; and U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures, D-Mobile; were sworn in as members of the 119th U.S. Congress, a historical moment recognized during the Congressional Black Caucus swearing-in event Friday in Washington, D.C. I think its always significant and worth noting when we have first, such as this occurring, especially given the history of the State of Alabama, the South and this country, Figures said in an interview with AL.com Monday. But at the end of the day, its all about representation. We got elected to not just represent Black people and Black people in District 2, but we were elected to represent the people of this district and that is what were going to do. Figures and Sewell join a short list of only seven Black Alabama residents elected to serve in the U.S. House. No Black Alabamian has ever been elected to serve in the U.S. Senate. And only four Black lawmakers have been elected to represent the state since Reconstruction. This is an historic moment for the State of Alabama and a major victory for the idea of fair representation, Sewell said in a statement Tuesday. At the end of the day, this is about having people in office who will fight for the issues that matter to us and values we share. For too long, many Black voters in Alabama have had their power unfairly diluted. By sending Shomari Figures to Washington, those voters finally get the chance to claim their seat at the decision-making table. I look forward to having him as a partner in Congress and working on behalf of all Alabamians, especially those whose voices have yet to be fully heard. The Congressional Black Caucus recognized the historical moment along with another first of having two Black women serving together in the U.S. Senate -- Democrats Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware. The congressional term is starting off with a record of 62 elected Black officials who are part of the Congressional Black Caucus, up from 13 who were the founding members of the nonpartisan group in 1971. There are total of 67 Black lawmakers in Congress with an additional four Black Republicans in the House and one Black Republican senator who are not members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Sewell, the longest serving Black member of Congress from Alabama, is also the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations board of directors. Speaking at the event on Friday, she said that Black lawmakers stand on the shoulders of giants. We are now a powerful voting bloc who can move public policy, can elect vice presidents, and now have our first African American to lead the party, Hakeem Jeffries, Sewell said, referring to the House Minority Leader from New York. Sewell, first elected to serve Alabamas 7th congressional district in 2010, is the only Black woman to be elected to Congress from Alabama. Figures was elected to serve the 2nd district in November, defeating Republican Caroleene Dobson by a 54.6%-45.5% margin. The addition of two Black members to Alabamas seven-member congressional delegation gives the state representation in the U.S. House that more closely aligns with its voting-age demographics. Alabamas white voting age population is 70.9% white and 26.2% Black. The percentage of congressional representation is 71.4% white, and 28.6% Black. Wayne Flynt, professor emeritus at Auburn University and an Alabama state historian, said the significance of having two Black members serving in the U.S. House from Alabama was by no means a historical footnote. As often happens in historical periods of significant transition, the most courageous, confident and competent leaders tend to be push forward by their followers in the early stage of upheaval and change, Flynt said. Usually movements get their most passionate, aggressive, fearless well-known leaders in this early stage who, as a result, become legendary figures in history. Reconstruction era A display honoring two of the first African Americans elected to Congress is shown at the History Museum of Mobile in Mobile, Ala., on Friday Feb. 6, 2015. Benjamin Turner and Jeremiah Haralson were both from Alabama and represented the First Congressional District in the 1870s. (file)Mobile Press-Register photo The first three Black members of the U.S. House from Alabama were each elected in the 1870s, but none them served concurrently. None of the first three Black members also served beyond a single term. The first Black federal lawmaker from Alabama was Benjamin Turner, as Dallas County tax collector, who represented Alabamas 1st congressional district from March 4, 1871-March 3, 1873. The district included Selma, Mobile, and the states rural Black Belt region. Turner was a political moderate who refused to make patronage appointments while serving in Congress and ended up losing re-election after one term in office. James Rapier, the first Black newspaper publisher in Alabama, was elected to serve the 2nd congressional district in 1873. He is best known for supporting a port bill for Montgomery, which led to its economic growth at the time. Rapier lost re-election to a former Confederate Army Major following an election that included armed mobs and intimidate from the Ku Klux Klan. Jeremiah Haralson, an influential Alabama State senator, represented the 1st district from March 4, 1874-March 3, 1877. While in Congress, he sought to gain amnesty for the former Confederates. He lost re-election after redistricting redrew his Selma home into the 4th congressional district. An armed mob attacked him in 1878, and he was ordered to leave the state. Redistricting In modern times, the addition of Black lawmakers in Alabama has come mostly due to redistricting. Figures won the new 2nd congressional district redrawn by a three-judge federal panel in 2023, following a lawsuit contesting Alabamas congressional map as a violation to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The district was redrawn to provide a second opportunity district to give Black voters a chance to select their preferred candidate. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the lower courts ruling by a 5-4 vote in June 2023, which led to the creation of a 2nd district that is over 47% Black, compared to 45% white. The lawsuits (that created) this district was about giving people the opportunity to have a legitimate voice and selecting the representation in their state, Figures said. African Americans make up less than a third of the population under the maps that existed (before 2023) and could only influence one of seven congressional districts. The more you can make your representatiton reflective of the community make up of the State of Alabama, the better off we are all. Im incredibly blessed and humbled to do just that. Former Birmingham Mayor Richard Arrington, Jr., left, and Birmingham City Councilman Aldrich Gunn, center, congratulate Rep. Earl Hilliard, D-Ala., after he defeated rival Artur Davis in the 7th Congressional District Democratic primary during a reception in Birmingham, Ala., Tuesday, June 6, 2000. Hilliard was the first Black member of Congress from Alabama to serve in the U.S. House since Reconstruction. He was first elected in 1992, and remained in Congress until losing to Davis in 2002.file photo Redistricting created the states first majority-Black district in Alabamas 7th congressional district in 1992. Earl Hilliard, a former state legislator and chair of the first Alabama Black Legislative Caucus, won the 7th district seat that included Birmingham, Selma, and Montgomery. It was redrawn after the 1990 Census to be a 65% majority non-white district. Hilliard held onto the seat for a decade until he lost to Artur Davis in the 2002 Democratic primary. The contest between the two was bitter, and Davis ended up winning the race after criticizing Hillard for voting against a bill increasing funding to Israel and for opposing the criminalization of Palestinian politicians. Davis, an assistant U.S. attorney from 1994-1998, served in the seat from 2003-2011. He was the first Democratic politician outside of Illinois to endorse Barack Obamas presidential candidacy in 2008. Davis opted not to seek re-election in 2010 but instead ran for governor. He lost to Ron Sparks in the Democratic primary. District Attorney Kim Ogg speaks to the media at the District Attorneys Office on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, in Houston, about charges against ex-Harris County health official Barbie Robinson. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg will make $180,000 working as a policy adviser to Precinct 3 County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, officials confirmed this week. Representatives for the lone Republican commissioner confirmed Oggs hiring to the Chronicle, saying the job is a standard position in commissioner precinct offices. Ogg didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. MORE FROM HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Police shoot and kill man in northeast Houston, officials say Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ogg served as the countys district attorney since beating Devon Anderson in a 2016 race for the job. She served two terms in office before Sean Teare defeated her with about 75% of the vote in the 2024 Democratic primary. Though campaigning as a progressive reform candidate in 2016, Ogg has since gotten into several public disputes with Democratic elected leaders, including County Judge Lina Hidalgo. Ogg endorsed Ted Cruz in the 2024 Texas Senate race. During her time with the district attorneys office, Ogg drew a salary of around $199,000, records from 2023 show. She was licensed by the state bar in 1987 after graduating from the South Texas College of Law. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Two sisters from Baldwin County are facing trial in an alleged murder-for-hire conspiracy. On Monday, Jessica Montgomery pleaded guilty to participating in the plot to murder Raul Mina by assisting Rebecca Murphy, her partner. Murphy was hired as a hit-woman by sisters Mitzy Gaye Smith, Judy Owen and Sandra Smith, according to an FBI affidavit. However, instead of following through with the murder, Murphy provided information to the FBI. Murphy pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder for hire and possession of a firearm by a forbidden person in September. In October, Sandra Smith pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder for hire as her two sisters continue to face trial. Mina, who is from Louisiana, was in a custody battle. According to the affidavit, the sisters wanted Mina killed because they said that he was abusive to Mitzys daughter and grandchildren. Murphy was initially approached by the sisters in February 2024 to perform the hit. After Murphys dog got sick, Owen helped cover the remaining veterinarian bill of $500 but said that Murphy would have to repay the favor by killing Mina. According to the affidavit, this led to Murphy taking part in three separate trips to Louisiana. The first trip the included discussions of how to carry out the plot by injecting Mina with heroine to make it appear as a drug overdose. Since Mina was a drug user, Grimes and Owen wanted the murder to appear as an overdose, the affidavit stated. They wanted Murphy to inject Mina with a lethal dose of heroine via a needle. However, they did not care if Murphy had to slit Minas throat, as long as she got the job done. They stated they had already paid Edward Lane $10,000 to murder Mina, but he ran off with the money. Murphy agreed to the scheme, but stated they had to pay her more. The second trip involved Owen telling Murphy to kill Mina outside a courthouse after he left a child custody hearing. Murphy refused, saying it was broad daylight and there were too many cameras. After being provided a gun by the sisters, Murphy and Montgomery went back to Louisiana and stayed a whole week but did not attempt to kill Mina. Murphy was paid approximately $1,010 between March 7 and April 21. Communications between the sisters demonstrated their ire with Murphy as each day passed and Mina was still alive, the affidavit showed. Murphy eventually gave consent to the FBI to search her phone about the conspiracy on May 3. Murphys sentencing hearing is set for Jan. 13. Birmingham City Councilor Carol E. Clarke , who was elected in 2021 to represent District 8, will not seek re-election when her four-year term ends this year, she confirmed to AL.com. Last August, District 3s Valerie Abbott, the longest-tenured councilor, announced she would not seek re-election after serving 6 terms. No other councilors have announced their re-election plans. The primary will take place on August 26 . In June 2023, Clark, a Birmingham native (and jazz fan) with a long-time interest in housing policy and affordable housing, was hired as CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Birmingham (NHSB). NHSB, which was founded in 1970, works with Birmingham on various housing programs. So since accepting the position, Clarke has recused herself from city actions related to NHSB and avoided interacting with city employees in any discussions about its programming. Ive been walking on eggshells ever since taking the job, Clarke says. I knew when I took it, I would not run again, so I had to make the decision then. In 2021, Clarke became the first female to represent her district (she lives in Bush Hills) by easily winning the general election with 51.7 percent of the vote in a field of eight candidates to replace long-time councilor Steven Hoyt, who had held the seat since 2005 . She calls the NHSB role a dream job. Anyone who knows me knows I care deeply about affordable housing and housing policy, she says. Quite frankly, my whole interest in city council was to work on housing policy because our citys housing policy toolkit was so lacking. She says the toolkit has improved markedly in some important ways. Clarke cites being involved in efforts that led state lawmakers to authorize the city to foreclose on code enforcement liens, which will help the city to strategically reclaim vacant properties, she says. This is especially important when the value of the liens exceeds the value of the property. Other policy triumphs include a new workforce housing tax credit passed during the 2023 session. It was funded for 3 years to a level that should allow for a good demonstration and hopefully lead to an extension and higher cap, says Clarke. Finally, Clarke points to a new state amendment that permits Jefferson County to grant a new property tax exemption to long-term homeowners who are 65 and older, which freezes property taxes. NHSB is affiliated with NeighborWorks America , which was founded by and is funded by Congress. Though nearly 250 affiliates nationally, it creates opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, according to its website . My interest in this organization from day one was always that it was connected to NeighborWorks America, Clarke says. Being affiliated with a national powerhouse in community development gives us a lot of potential to bring a lot of things to bear on Birmingham that it really, really needs. Clarkes interest in housing policy was sparked in 2000 when she joined then-Mayor Bernard Kincaid as chief administrative assistant and saw those two strange wordshousing and policy in her position description. I didnt really know what it was, she says. But it set me on this path of being interested in impacting housing policy in Birmingham. We had this machine that tore down houses, she said. A well-oiled machine to abate delapidated structures, but we didnt have a programmatic thrust for the replacement of housing units. So, weve been tearing down hundreds of houses for decades, but we havent been saving them or replacing them. So, those two words changed my life. Joining NHSB, she says, is the fulfillment of a quest that I was set in motion in 2000 with those two words: housing policy. In other public service roles, Clarke was named to the Birmingham School Board in 2012 as a District 4 replacement for board president Edward Maddox, who resigned as part of a plea agreement after being charged with two counts of using a public office for personal gain. She has also worked for four Birmingham mayors. She began working for Richard Arrington in 1995 as a consultant on the citys Olympic project. (Birmingham hosted Olympic soccer at Legion Field in 1996). After Arrington retired months before the end of his term, Clarke continued consulting for Interim Mayor William Bell (who assumed the role from his position as City Council president). She later joined Kinkaid and worked two months for Larry Langford before joining Regions Bank as head of supplier diversity in the procurement department. Prior to johnson NHSB, Clarke was project director and community development specialist for Corporate Realty, where she worked closely with residents during the redevelopment of the Southtown public housing community. No candidates have yet announced that they will run for the seat. A Birmingham man already charged in connection with one mans death is now facing a second murder charge. Brandon Quartez Jemison, 41, is charged with murder in the Sept. 24 slaying of 34-year-old Damone Gardner, Birmingham police announced Monday. West Precinct officers responded to a Shot Spotter alert in the 300 block of 27th Street S.W. shortly before 8:30 p.m. that Tuesday. They arrived to find Gardner unresponsive in the middle of the road. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service pronounced him dead on the scene. The gunfire detection system registered two shots fired. Authorities said an argument took place between Gardner and Jemison, possibly linked to the shooting death of Gardners best friend that took place several hours earlier. That friend, 26-year-old Malike Williams, was fatally shot about 5 p.m. at Big Boy Convenience Store on Pearson Avenue. Williams died en route to UAB Hospital. Police at the time said the deadly shooting possibly stemmed from a dispute over a social media post. Officer Truman Fitzgerald previously said, One party had a gun, the second party had a gun, and one of those males fired shots. Jemison and Williams, believed to be related, were the two men involved in the confrontation with the shooter, police said. Jemison fled the scene after Williams was shot. Police previously said the third man fired the shots that killed Williams, and he was justified in defending himself because Williams was the aggressor. Jemison was charged with felony murder in Williams death, court documents state, by participating in the attempted murder of the intended victim, who was able to shoot first and kill Williams. Jemison is also charged with attempted murder of the intended victim. Madison County sheriffs are collaborating with the Alabama State Fire Marshal Service to investigate after three people were found dead in a housefire Tuesday morning. Around 6 a.m., sheriffs deputies responded to a report of a house fire in the 100 block of Forestbrook Drive in Madison, according to a release from the department. While the sheriffs release, posted at 11 a.m., only confirmed one death, James Filley of Monrovia Volunteer Fire-Rescue said three victims had been found dead as of 1 p.m. Madison County Coroner Dr. Tyler Berryhill later confirmed this in an email to AL.com In reference to the house fire that occurred on Forestbrook Drive three people were discovered dead inside the residence, Berryhill wrote. At this time, all three people are believed to be family members who lived at the home. While the preliminary examination has identified the cause of death for each of the family members, autopsies will be performed in Huntsville to confirm these findings and establish positive identification for each person. The incident remains under investigation by detectives at the Madison County Sheriffs Office in collaboration with the Alabama State Fire Marshal Service to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the fire, according to the release. No further details are being released at this time, Berryhill said. Madison County Sheriffs urge the public to avoid the area while the investigation is ongoing and added that additional information will be released as it becomes available. This story was updated on Jan. 7, 2025, at 11:22 p.m. to include additional details Berryhill sent to AL.com after publishing. A Circle of Prayer will be held tonight in memory of an Irondale police lieutenant who was fatally struck while directing traffic for Church of the Highlands. Lt. Mark Meadows, 60, was killed Monday morning. He 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 shortly before 7 a.m. He was pronounced dead at Grandview Medical Center at 7:39 a.m. Alabama State 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. The investigation is ongoing, and additional details have not yet been released. Mayor James Stewart said the memorial will be held at 5 p.m. at the flagpole out Irondale City Hall. Irondale police and ALEA investigate a fatal crash involving a police officer who was directing traffic for Church of the Highlands on Grants Mill Road.(Carol Robinson) Meadows patrol car will be displayed as a memorial. Lt. Mark Meadows was a treasured member of our Irondale family for over 30 years, Stewart said. He was a man of few words but always led by example and embodied the heart of a public servant. There has been an outpouring of grief for Meadows. Throughout his over 30-year career in law enforcement, Lt. Meadows was a committed law enforcement professional who always put the safety and well-being of his community first, said Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. He faithfully served his country, state and city and we all owe him and his family our gratitude, Marshall said. My heart is heavy as I have learned of the tragic loss of Irondale Police Lt. Mark Meadows, a veteran and true public servant, said Gov. Kay Ivey. I join all Alabamians in lifting up his family, the Irondale Police Department and the Church of Highlands in prayer. My prayers are with the family of Lt. Mark Meadows and the entire Irondale community as they grapple with the tragic loss of this true pillar of the community, said U.S. Sen. Katie Britt. 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. 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. On Tuesday, Pastor Chris Hodges addressed Meadows death as the second day of the prayer services began. Hodges called Meadows a longtime friend and public servant. Im going to tell you guys, it was a tough day yesterday, Hodges said. Hodges said he and others went to Grandview to pray with the officers after Meadows death. He said Meadows wife has the peace of God, and asked those in attendance to pray for all law enforcement officers. A celebration of life will be held Thursday at the Church of the Highlands on Grants Mill Road. Visitation will be at 10:30 a.m. with a funeral at noon. The family suggests donations be made in his honor at Jefferson Christian Academy. A bill that was pre-filed in the Alabama legislature on revenge porn also serves as yet another excuse to warn each other (and especially our kids) that anything they put on the Internet or digital mediums might haunt them later. Thats part of todays report below. Thanks for reading, Ike Police tragedy An Irondale police officer was killed Monday morning while preparing to direct traffic at a Church of the Highlands location, reports AL.coms Carol Robinson. Lt. Mark Meadows had spent more than three decades on the Irondale force. Before that he served in the U.S. Army and worked with the Mountain Brook Police Department. He had helped coordinate traffic at the church for more than 10 years. He was struck by a vehicle early Monday morning while he was setting out cones at the intersection of Grants Mill Road and Overton Road for congregants attending the churchs 21 Days of Prayer. Lt. Meadows was 60 years old. Broadening sexual extortion Pre-filed bills keep landing ahead of this years Alabama state legislative session. Among measures already awaiting committee action is a Senate bill that would include the use of revenge porn as a sexual-extortion crime, reports AL.coms Heather Gann. Sexual extortion currently applies to cases where someone knowingly causes or attempts to cause another person to engage in a sexual act or product sexual content under the threat of physical injury or damage to property or reputation. A conviction can mean up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $30,000. Revenge porn is yet another ugly byproduct of the digital revolution. It often refers to situations in which intimate photos or videos taken during a relationship outlasts that relationship and then are shared to nefarious means by one of the parties involved. It again brings to mind the warning: Dont ever put anything on the Internet or in the digital world unless youre prepared for your grandma, next-door neighbor, boss, pastor, teachers and future spouse to view it the rest of your life, because theres a chance they might. But thats a warning for potential victims. The warning for potential offenders lies in that 20 years in prison. The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Gerald Allen, a Tuscaloosa Republican, broadens the sexual extortion law to include anyone who knowingly threatens to release or transmit any photograph, digital image, video, film, or other recording of any individual, whether recognizable or not, engaged in any act of sexually explicit conduct in order to compel or attempt to compel the victim to do any act or refrain from doing any act against his or her will. A pea-sized difference Its always risky to make a big change when youre at or near the top. The Red Sox once had a dynasty going but after one bad season traded off their best player, Babe Ruth. Coca-Cola once tried to stem market-share losses by ... replacing Coca-Cola. And now, recently, Chick-fil-A tweaked its recipe for waffle fries, reports AL.coms Shauna Stuart. According to Chick-fil-A, it has added pea starch to the coating that it puts on waffle fries so theyll stay crispier, longer while tasting the same. Youll be stunned to learn, Im sure, that some people arent pleased with the changes, begging the chicken-sandwich chain to return to the beloved classic waffle-fry recipe. If youre a hype-skeptic like me, however, youre asking a familiar question: Would they have ever noticed a difference if they werent told about it? Chick-fil-A sent a statement to TODAY.com saying its been testing the new recipe for a year. Quoting Birminghams current trajectory is untenable. But with bold leadership, innovative strategies and collective commitment, the city can transform the future and realize the vision of becoming the safest city in America. The Birmingham Crime Commission, in a report revealing strategy to reduce crime. More Alabama News Born on This Date In 1891, writer Zora Neale Hurston of Notasulga. She moved to Florida at a young age and later wrote Their Eyes Were Watching God. In 1916, bluesman Bobo Jenkins of Forkland. He reportedly ran away to Tennessee with the first of his 10 wives. The podcast The Center for Biological Diversity, a national conservation nonprofit, is offering an additional $12,500 for information on an American bald eagle killed last month in north Alabama. The mature bird was found Dec. 8 near Mt. Hope in Lawrence County with many shotgun pellets lodged in its carcass, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who along with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources are seeking information on who was behind the incident. This majestic bird didnt deserve a heartbreaking death, and whoever killed them must be brought to justice, Will Harlan, a senior scientist at the Center, said in a recent release. This cowardly act against Americas national bird cant go unpunished. I hope someone steps forward with information. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service previously offered up to $2,500 for information leading to a conviction of the person or persons responsible for the fatal shooting. The Centers donation now brings the reward total up to $15,000. Bald eagles are protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Anyone who violates the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act face fines up to $100,000 and/or up to one year in federal prison, while violators of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act face up to a $15,000fine and/or up to a year in a federal lockup. Anyone with information on the investigation has been asked to call U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Special Agent Brad Rabalais at 601-331-0292 or the Alabama Game Watch Hotline at 1-800-272-4263. The National Weather Service on Tuesday night said confidence continued to increase about the probability of winter precipitation affecting the northern half of the state on Thursday into Friday. One important thing to note: Alabamas Emergency Management Agency warned on Tuesday that Impacts will likely begin almost immediately on roadways once the winter precipitation starts due to how cold the pavement will become this week. Forecasters continued to stress that only a degree or two could separate who gets snow, freezing rain or just a cold rain. And also remember that the forecast will be evolving each day as the end of the week gets closer and more details come into focus. Several very chilly days are on tap first, however. Tonight will be very cold statewide. Lows will range from the upper teens and low 20s in north and north-central Alabama to the mid- to upper 20s across south Alabama. Heres the forecast for tonights low temperatures: Here are the expected low temperatures from tonight into Wednesday morning.NWS High temperatures will again make it only into the 30s and 40s on Wednesday and Thursday, according to weather service forecasts. The coldest night may be from Wednesday night into Thursday morning, when lows could get into the lower teens in north Alabama. Here is that low temperature forecast: Here are the expected temperatures from Wednesday night into Thursday morning.NWS Thursday night into Friday is where the possibility of winter precipitation enters the picture. The National Weather Service offices in both Huntsville and Birmingham said confidence is rising in some sort of winter precipitation affecting the northern half of the state starting as early as late Thursday. Forecasters expect a storm system to track along the Gulf Coast and spread precipitation across Alabama. However, that storm system could also help to raise temperatures enough to make it a real challenge to predict who will get snow, ice or disappointment. NORTH ALABAMA Here's a look at the thinking as of Tuesday morning about the chances for accumulating snow in north Alabama.NWS The weather service in Huntsville said concern of accumulating snow -- and possibly freezing rain -- is increasing for north Alabama. Snow could begin over north Alabama possibly as early as late Thursday. There is a high chance of precipitation across north Alabama on Friday, and it should end from west to east on Saturday morning. The weather service said the precipitation is most likely to fall as snow north of the Tennessee River, with an eventual transition to a wintry mix possibly occurring south of the river. CENTRAL ALABAMA There is a risk for impacts to travel and infrastructure Thur night-Fri night for a chunk of central AL Temps will change at ground and a few thousand feet above our heads throughout Thur night-Fri night, in terms of +/- 32F, so precip types, and the impacts from, will vary. pic.twitter.com/a41JdqteTw NWS Birmingham (@NWSBirmingham) January 7, 2025 The National Weather Service in Birmingham also has increasing confidence in some sort of winter precipitation affecting parts of central Alabama on Friday. Forecasters raised the level for potential impacts to significant for the northern tier of counties in the region. Other areas, including Birmingham and Anniston, have been included in an elevated risk areak. Forecasters said on Tuesday that the track of the low pressure system as well as depth of the cold air present at the surface will greatly determine location of wintry precipitation, precipitation type (snow, wintry mix, or freezing rain) and potential impacts. Forecasters are more certain that the northern part of central Alabama will have impacts from winter precipitation. As of Tuesday, the weather service said snow accumulations of a half-inch to 2 inches are not out of the question -- but stressed that there was significant uncertainty about that. A baby snowman only 10 inches tall during a January snow in north Alabama in 2014. (Bob Gathany/bgathany@al.com) AL.comAL.com There could also be ice accumulations up to one tenth of an inch. Areas along and north of Interstate 20 have the best chances at this point to see accumulations. Due to the cold air that will already be in place leading up to Friday, infrastructure and ground temperatures will already be very cold. That could be a contributing factor to closely watch in terms of potential impacts, forecasters said. Temperatures should rise above freezing on Friday afternoon for the southern part of the region. The weather service urged those in central Alabama to stay tuned as the forecast becomes more refined and details ironed out over the next 36 hours. SOUTH ALABAMA Theres a chance those in south Alabama could see some winter precipitation as well. The National Weather Service in Mobile noted that the forecast for Thursday night is very challenging and depends on the exact track of the weather system. Some light snow or a mix of rain and snow will be possible late Thursday for parts of Choctaw and Clarke counties. Overnight more of the region could see a rain-snow mix, mainly from Evergreen and Luverne northward, forecasters said. It must be stressed that some light freezing rain or light sleet could also occur. Some minor accumulation of wintry precipitation is possible. Again, this is a challenging forecast so stay tuned for adjustments to the forecast, the weather service said. Patients will get a first look at the rebranding of five Birmingham area hospitals Tuesday. The hospitals were part of a mammoth $910 million deal last year, when Tenet Healthcare Corp. sold its 70% majority ownership interest in Brookwood Baptist Health to Orlando Health. The deal was finalized last Oct. 1 and includes more than 1,700 beds, more than 70 primary and specialty care clinics, approximately 1,500 affiliated physicians and more than 7,300 employees. The five Baptist Health Hospitals will undergo name changes as well. As of Tuesday, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center will become Baptist Health Brookwood Hospital. Princeton Baptist Medical Center will become Baptist Health Princeton Hospital. Shelby Baptist Medical Center will become Baptist Health Shelby Hospital. Walker Baptist Medical Center will become Baptist Health Walker Hospital. Citizens Baptist Medical Center will become Baptist Health Citizens Hospital. According to the company, the name changes will be marked Tuesday with festive celebrations across the Brookwood Baptist Health network, including simultaneous receptions at each of the five hospitals in the system. Thibaut van Marcke, pronounced TEE bow van MARK, will lead Orlando Health in Alabama. van Marcke spoke with AL.com last year about some of the expected changes following the deal. South Florida-based Orlando Health is made up of an additional 17 hospitals, 10 free-standing emergency rooms and nine Hospital Care at Home programs, with 3,487 beds in all. It also has four hospitals and six free-standing emergency rooms in development, as well as seven partner hospitals in Puerto Rico. The Baldwin County Commission on Tuesday overhauled the countys subdivision regulations, in a move to address the rapid growth and development in the county. Most people are liking it here, Baldwin County Commissioner Billie Jo Underwood said during the meeting. Were not here to control growth, stop growthharmonious [growth] is what we need to strive for. The new rules, which have been in discussion for almost a year, seek to clarify existing regulations and bring the countys standards more in line with the regulations of the cities in the county. But some developers and builders in the county warned the regulations would make housing more expensive, arguing some of the regulations would lead to increased costs for developers that would then be passed on to consumers. They [the planning and zoning staff] are creating a county full of renters, Stacey Ryals, a real estate and property manager in Gulf Shores, previously told AL.com. People will not be able to own a home here. Most residents of Baldwin County are homeowners: according to Federal Reserve Economic Data, more than 80% of Baldwin County residents owned a home in 2022. That year, 3,417 single-family building permits were issued in the county, and in 2023, 4,363 permits were issued. Some of the proposed rule changes that developers had objected to were removed from the final version the commission passed Tuesday, including a rule that would increase use of gravity sewer lines. Still, some at the meeting urged the commission to hold off on passing the new requirements. I left [the work session] with the burning question of the costnobody could really answer that question, what the cost is, Michael Taylor, past president of the Baldwin County Road Builders Association. All Im asking is you fully understand the cost. But many residents at the crowded meeting supported the new requirements. Luke Kiszla, government affairs director with Mobile Baykeeper, spoke in favor of the requirements, which he argued help protect the natural environment in the county. These proposed regulations are a strong move in the right direction, Kiszla said. Mobile Baykeeper, in summary, believes these regulations will advance the health of Baldwin Countys waterways and communities. His comments were met with cheers from the audience. Members of the commission, too, were frustrated with the developers argument that the new regulations would increase housing costs. The commission did not cause inflation and other pressures driving costs upward, Jeb Ball, vice chairman of the Baldwin County Commission said during the meeting. We had nothing to do with it, Ball said during the meeting. Yall need to figure out how to cut the costs. The regulations come as the county is reckoning with rapid population growth. The county was the second-fastest growing county in the state in 2022. The Daphne-Fairhope-Foley Metropolitan Statistical Area was the 10th fastest growing metro area in the United States in 2023. Rapid growth in the county has come with growing pains. County residents frequently show up to planning commission meetings to protest a new subdivision in their area, arguing that the rapid development has strained infrastructure and utilities. In 2022, the city of Fairhope placed a moratorium on new subdivisions and multi-occupancy projects outside of its city limits but within its planning jurisdiction, in an effort to curb growth in the city. Other cities in the county have implemented similar measures over the years to grapple with the number of people moving to the area. An apartment fire off Jarmese St., which sent several residents and firefighters to the hospital with injuries, is photographed on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Three Houston firefighters suffered second- and third-degree burns Tuesday morning after being trapped behind a heavy door while searching an apartment during a blaze, officials said. The men were rescued by another firefighter, who strong-armed the door open and extracted them, Fire Department Chief Tom Munoz said. The men are all expected to survive, but suffered serious burns to their arms, legs and necks, Munoz said. "We are fortunate that we dont have three firefighters that we are burying, but this is going to be a long recovery," said Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Marty Lancton. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A resident is seen walking in front of an apartment that caught fire off Jarmese St., sending several residents and firefighters to the hospital with injuries, on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Mayor John Whitmire holds a press conference alongside Fire Chief Thomas Munoz and Local 341 President Marty Lancton to provide an update on the firefighters injured in an apartment fire off Jarmese St. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer An apartment fire off Jarmese St., which sent several residents and firefighters to the hospital with injuries, is photographed on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A fire truck is parked outside of Memorial Hermann Hospital during a press conference held by Mayor John Whitmire, Fire Chief Thomas Munoz and Local 341 President Marty Lancton providing an update on the firefighters injured in an apartment fire off Jarmese St. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Mayor John Whitmire holds a press conference alongside Fire Chief Thomas Munoz and Local 341 President Marty Lancton to provide an update on the firefighters injured in an apartment fire off Jarmese St. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer An apartment fire off Jarmese St., which sent several residents and firefighters to the hospital with injuries, is photographed on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer The fire happened around 5:45 a.m. at an apartment complex the 4800 block of Jarmese, in the Sunnyside area. The firefighters went into the apartment to search for residents and became trapped behind a door. They called for help before they were rescued, Munoz said. Two units were damaged in the fire. No residents were injured. The cause of the fire was still under investigation as of Tuesday morning. Mayor John Whitmire lauded the firefighters as heroes at a news conference at Memorial Hermann Hospital and credited a newly created hiring initiative as part of the reason the men were saved by their colleague. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mayor John Whitmire holds a press conference alongside Fire Chief Thomas Munoz and Local 341 President Marty Lancton to provide an update on the firefighters injured in an apartment fire off Jarmese St. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Update on injured firefighters https://t.co/jRtwt8XFo8 Houston Fire Dept (@HoustonFire) January 7, 2025 The firefighter who ripped the door open recently returned to the department after having left, officials said. In the wake of the city's new contact with the firefighters union, officials said they were open to rehiring first responders who had left the department. There are news stories that make the front page, there are news stories that make the business page, and there are news stories that arent covered at all. Then there are the stories that are only news to an interest group so severely limited that they are exclusively covered in narrow trade journals, and never make it to the mainstream press at all, though sometimes, perhaps, they should. People in the transportation business, for example, might have noticed a big news story out of northwest Africa last week the New Years Eve announcement that a Chinese heavy equipment contractor had been selected to supply the bulk cargo handling equipment for a port expansion at the port of Safi, Morocco. This contract, awarded by the Moroccan state-owned fertilizer giant OCP Group to the Chinese state-owned Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries, is for a total of 2.05 billion in Chinese money, approximately $200 million in U.S. dollars This doesnt sound like a big story, even for the construction industry, when you consider that most Americans will never set foot in Morocco, and most businesses ship internationally using intermodal containers, so even our international traders arent likely to encounter this bulk handling service at the distant port of Safi. But lets change the context and look instead at a different picture. In recent years, even outside the arena of presidential politics, Americans have begun to worry about the way that Mainland China (yes, the one that some still remember to call Red China) has been expanding its global reach. We Americans tend to be frustrated or concerned at the number of American businesses who have switched their manufacturing to China over the years. And those who think about military readiness are especially concerned by our dependence on China for the many national security related goods that we really ought to be making ourselves. But the Chinese government hasnt only been directing their commercial rivalry toward the United States. At the same time, China has been working to dominate an array of different industries, so that most other countries, both developed and undeveloped, would become just as dependent on China as we are. Mexico, Canada, and Brazil import an enormous amount of components from China. When you buy a product labeled made in Mexico or manufactured in Brazil, its just as likely to include some critical components, such as batteries, printed circuit boards and motors, that were themselves made in China. The same goes for Great Britain, the European Union, Africa, and much of the rest of Asia. The fact is, China has come to dominate so many industries in recent decades, one really has to make a concerted effort to avoid buying Chinese goods. They are no longer simply the cheapest source, often, the Chinese have made themselves the only source. And as decades of slow-to-respond anti-dumping cases can verify, thats been Chinas goal all along. As todays story reminds us, however, Chinas dominance in world trade isnt just in the goods that get traded. China manages a good deal of world commerce, by manufacturing most of the worlds 35 million intermodal containers. Chinese companies make about four million per year of these 20, 40, and 45 reusable steel boxes, and if one wanted to track or spy on anyone in the world, its difficult to imagine a more easily accessible way than by making the boxes that go in and out of every port, in fact, in and out of every city, farm, and factory, over every bridge and through every tunnel in the world. Similarly, Chinese companies sail a lot of the ships that handle international cargo. COSCO and a number of other Chinese government joint ventures own or lease hundreds of containerships, bulk ships, and feeder vessels, with commercial services calling over 600 ports in over 145 countries. Even countries that would never allow a foreign countrys naval vessel to dock in their ports are happy to allow full port privileges to a Chinese government-owned-and-staffed commercial vessel, without giving it a seconds thought. This might be perfectly safeor perhaps not. Chinese government-owned companies operate a huge number of seaports all over the world, over 115 of them, with a commanding presence on every continent except Antarctica either as the contracted port management company or by owning the port outright. And finally, in addition to these, Chinese manufacturers produce and install such port equipment as the gantry cranes and other loading and unloading equipment like the bulk cargo handling machinery contract at Safi, Morocco that precipitated this discussion. ZPMC boasts that it maintains a 70% global market share supplying quayside cranes to ports all over the world. And thats just ZPMC; China owns other such operations besides. As President Trump has reminded us of late, China doesnt have to conquer a country to effectively control it. For example, China manages ports at both ends of the Panama Canal, a level of control in one of the worlds top five most important shipping lanes that was inconceivable 45 years ago when the late President Jimmy Carter put an unnecessary end to American control of the Canal. When the Canal is unable to process as many crossings per day as the market desires, who decides which ships get to use the Canal and which ones have to take the longer and more expensive route, going around South America to the other side? Its not Americas choice or Panamas choice; its Chinas call. Who staffs all these Chinese offices, logistics centers, and bay access points, in hundreds of ports all over the world? Employees who report, directly or indirectly, to Beijing. What country produced the desktop and laptop computers, the cellphones and portable tablets, that control these operations, no matter whose hands operate them? China. And to make it clear that fears of these matters are anything but unfounded, what country has declared, through such public documents as the Belt and Road Initiative, that it has a very serious, very real desire to spread its wings and control as much of the day-to-day operations of the world as possible by midcentury? Only China. China has proven itself the worlds expert, not only at maneuvering into control in countless countries and regions, and countless products and industries, but also at using the tools of capitalism in the service of Chinese communism. China offers not only competitive pricing and quality products, but also government funding options that often make the Chinese bidder irresistible. Only China can offer government subsidies, government loans, and currency fluctuations that can make their product the cheapest at contract time, and then make the relationship unbreakable later on. Thus has China gained the upper hand and a surprising amount of real estate all over the world. National security experts have long warned us that we need to recognize how this multi-layered global footprint will give China the upper hand in case of a world war. But only now is it beginning to be clear that China may not need such a war at all. They may have already gained so much global control through the aggressive utilization of public-private partnerships and a world of willing patsies, that China may be on the way to global conquest without firing a shot. John F. Di Leo is a Chicagoland-based international transportation manager, trade compliance trainer, and speaker. Read his book on the surprisingly numerous varieties of vote fraud (The Tales of Little Pavel), his political satires on the Biden-Harris years (Evening Soup with Basement Joe, Volumes I, II, and III), and his 2024 collection of public policy essays, Current Events and the Issues of Our Age, all available in eBook or paperback, only on Amazon. Image: Free image, Pixabay license. At that I turned, and saw before my feet a lake of ice, which in the terrible cold looked not like frozen water, but like glass. Inferno Canto 32. 2224 (translated by Anthony Esolen) In Dantes Inferno, the relatively grievous nine circles of hell are chiefly populated by elite persona, sorry individuals from the authors own deeply wronged past. Yet, Dantes dead are quite familiar in their moral depravity and betrayal to the living, hellish versions at our societys obscured helm, thriving in the shadows even today. The famously principled and genuinely independent Hillsdale College offers an on-line completion certificate in Dantes Divine Comedy. I took the course a few years ago to refresh my earlier study of Dante. An introduction to the Inferno via Hillsdales articulate treatment finely benchmarks the current relevance of Dantes epic: Dantes Divine Comedy provides a grand education in the proper order of the human soul and the order of the cosmos. Through his account of the afterlife, Dante reveals universal truths about character and choice, the nature of God and man, and the path to freedom and happiness. The Divine Comedy begins on Good Friday with Dante lost in a dark wood. Unable to save himself, Dante is rescued by the poet Virgil and begins his education by encountering the hopeless souls of the Inferno. As Dante descends into the Inferno, he discovers the true state of his own heart through the people he meets. In order to return to the path of the straight and true, Dante must properly order his desires for classical wisdom, love, politics, and the intellectual life. Dante is engaged in the Inferno with a cosmic poetic recreation of the wages of corruption in the human heart. He most frequently attacks early 14th century legal and political figures, often identifying each by their treachery when alive. Redemption is not at hand for those caught up in the Infernothat is reserved for the latter two salvation books of the Divine Comedy epic. In Hell, there is no light, no warmth, and no love, and certainly no reparations on Satans behalf. There is, however, the slimmest possibility of human redemption, but only by a far distanced and desperately hoped for Divinity: Dante moves through the Inferno in downward circles, not in a straight line. Thus, while his character seems to engage in the same kinds of behavior, he is making progress and improving. Here in the final circle of hell, all is ice: the ice is strong enough to withstand a stone mountain falling against it, with a wind of icy air from Satans wings beating back and forth. Here, Dante will be unable to fully express what he experienced, but he and Virgil will discover a path forward. Why does Dante consider treason to be the worst of sins, couched in the darkest place and with the worst of sinners, in the ninth Circle of Hell? Readers and scholars credit Dantes classical education, and his personal, professional, and political history in youth and early middle age as eventual inspiration for the Divine Comedy. Its epic theology is notably influenced by traditional Catholic and Jewish spiritual mysticism, and calls for punishment for sin and the hope of a redemptive forgivenessbut only and lastly via divine intervention. Dantes precipitous and engineered political fall in his middle age is well documented: When word of the political overthrow in Florence had reached the Pontiff, Boniface allowed most members of the group to return home, but refused to grant Dante permission to leave Rome. Consequently, Dante was unable to return to Florence to defend himself against corruption charges levied against him by the ruling Neri faction. On January 27, 1302, he was sentenced to two years of exile from the city. On March 10 a new decree was issued and Dante was forever forbidden to return to the city on pain of death. Dante never saw his beloved Florence again. Why should we, in 2025 with this great political and cultural chaos at our heels, concern ourselves with the 14th century and the ninth Circle of Hell? Because Dante speaks so eloquently and with such understanding, of treasonpointedly, political treasonas the greatest, most damning human sin and disorder. Weve got that now, in spades. To begin his Inferno journey, Dante meets up with his ancient mentor, the beloved Roman poet-philosopher Virgil, a model of probity and virtue. With Virgils assistance and humor, the two start their long troop into the far reaches of Hell. Virgil guides Dante in a circular descent that paradoxically results in a journey back upward-toward a glorified, eternal liberation from all forms of corruption and deviance. But before Dante can rise up to heaven, Satan is the last in creation that he must finally confront, the Evil One who, with unspeakable malice, is locked in ice and bound in chains, glaring from the bottom of Hells deepest pit. It is the authors ultimately terrible confrontation with the Devil that sparks a total rejection of evil, and a reversal (however minutely gained) of Dantes voyage. Dante carries himself eventually back up to see the stars, almost unreachable above a view of high crags yet to climb. Dante is released from his visit to Hell and its denizens. He is on his new way to an eventual reunion, now with Virgils departure but with his luminous Beatrices stern but abstracted entranceto goodness, light, and to Gods love. Dantes circles arein ascending order of severity, lust, gluttony, greed, wrath, heresy, violence, fraud, andfinally, most critically, treachery/treason. When within the final, Ninth Circle of Hell, Dante had found himself deprived of everything and anything of worth. Of all the nine allegories of human error and sin, starting with the most mild and descending to the most irreparable sinning: treason is the ticket. Dante makes no bones, often and by naming names, in claiming eternal destruction for those who commit treasonous, or treacherous, acts against others. To Dante, politics is intimately tied to moralityor notand relates directly to the certain ends of our bodies and souls. Satan is, there in his Ninth Circle, the original treasonous being, the angel Lucifer fallen, the majordomo of treasonous ways and acts. All of the great world religions have pledged some version of fealty to God(s) and/or Demon(s). Have they all been entirely wrong? Of course not. Of all, the Holy Bible is the most widely read, believed, and morally exquisite work in literary history. Its proven, factual recording of the human capacity for good or evil lays sure claims on the afterlife. But where eternitys spent is up toyou guessed itevery human soul. Thats pure Dante. His poetry warns us that treasonous political acts committed on earth provide a richly seductive yet very temporal cover for the kind of thinking and actions that will send the soul downward to reach the Ninth Circle of eternal doom. Victoria White Berger earned her dual B.A. in English and History from Duke University and her M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Missouri at St. Louis. Her Master of Philosophy thesis, Cause and Reason in Intentional Action is widely read internationally. Her writing can be found at American Thinker, The American Spectator, Louisianas Dead Pelican, and on her Substack account: https://victoriawhiteberger.substack.com/. Image: Public domain. On Sunday, December 22, President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his desire for America to take control of Greenland, saying it is an absolute necessity. The very next day, Greenlands prime minister, Mute Egede, said the autonomous island, part of the Danish kingdom, was not for sale. But Trumps planlike that of William H. Seward, who, as secretary of state, oversaw the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867is not without tremendous geopolitical advantage to America. Its all about gaining greater American control over the Arctic, where Russia and China are cooperating to build a strong presence. Fears that such cooperation will extend to include North Korea and Iran are not unfounded. Many pundits believe that Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran have aligned themselves into a new Axis of Evil. According to Merrill Matthews of the Institute for Policy Innovation, they are in expansionist mode, seeking much more land and power and coordinating their efforts to benefit each countrys goals. Image by Grok. However, the immediate worries for America are from the Sino-Russian efforts, which have significantly expanded over the past decade. Chinas northernmost point is 13 degrees of latitude from the Arctic Circlethats 1,443 km or roughly 900 miles. Yet, in 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping audaciously proclaimed China a near-Arctic state, launched an Arctic strategy, and resolved to make his country a polar power. Cut to 2024. In July, four Chinese and Russian strategic bombers, all taking off for the first time from an airbase in northeast Russia, flew over the Chukchi and Bering Seas. In October, Chinese and Russian coast guard fleets conducted their first joint patrol of the Arctic. These forays followed joint naval exercises in the Bering Strait in 2022 and 2023. The two countries also signed a memorandum of understanding on maritime law enforcement in 2023. In addition to defense, Sino-Russian projects in the Arctic include scientific research and procurement of natural gas and uranium. Russian gas exports to China are at an all-time high. Most of all, though, China wants to increase the use of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) and the Transpolar Sea Route (TSR) for shipping. These routes can cut shipping time from China to Europe by 50% or more. Chinas policymakers call these passages the Polar Silk Route (PSR), part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has also found a firm foothold in Greenland. The island clamors for independence from Denmark, and its cash-strapped autonomous government has welcomed Chinese investment, chiefly in ice-breaking and mining rare earth elements. In 2023, Chinese investment in Greenland and the region stood at $264.5 billion. Two recent reports, one from the U.S. Department of Defense and the other from the Rand Corporation, highlight serious Arctic concerns for America. The Pentagon favors a monitor-and-respond approach, deploying a 3-E strategy of enhancing military capabilities, engaging with allies and partners, and exercising presence through training and power projection. Rand strategists, however, suggest a disruptive exploitation of differences between China and Russias goals in the Arctic. It is in the light of these prognoses that Trumps statement on Greenland a repeat of an idea he broached during his first term must be seen. As a leader not averse to making pragmatic, advantageous deals for America with Russia (whose president he admires) and adopting a hawkish stance on China, Trump will likely take whatever steps are necessary to reestablish the Arctic as a bastion for America and the West. American interest in the Arctic began only after the Alaska Purchase. But despite its icy isolation, the Arctic Ocean and the land surrounding it have attracted human habitation since the 9th century, when the Vikings crossed the Arctic Circle, settled Iceland, and explored Greenland. In the 12th century, Russia colonized northern Siberia, took control of most of the Arctic territory, and established fur-trading routes in western Siberia by the end of the 16th century. Around that time, European explorers sought natural resources and a northwest passage to Asia through the Arctic. Only in the latter half of the 19th century did the discovery of vast natural resourcesgold, coal, diamonds, nickel, copper, oil, and gasspur competitive American, Canadian, and Russian exploitation of the region. The region is governed by international law, mainly the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). But the eight Arctic states Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the U.S., all of which have territorial possessions in the Arctic are members of the Arctic Council, formed in 1996 to enhance cooperation and coordination. They are also signatories to a non-binding agreement, the 1991 Arctic Environment Protection Strategy. China like Japan, Korea, India, Singapore, and Italy has permanent observer status on the Arctic Council, obtained in 2013. Except Russia, all Arctic states are NATO allies, making Americas role in the region the more important, though only 15% of the Arctic is American territory. In the early 1940s, the Arctic came to be recognized as a strategic location for bases, airstrips, and communications centers. The Second World War and the following Cold War intensified the conflict and the jostling. Russia, which refers to the Arctic as its second priority region, has the most substantial military presence there. It gets 80% of its natural gas and 20% of its petroleum production from the Arctic. It also lays claim to the NSR, the most navigable polar sea route, a claim the U.S. has rejected. Its population in the area, the length of its Arctic Ocean coastline (24,140 km, or 53% of the oceans entire coastline), its level of economic activity, and its nuclear assets and other infrastructure make Russia a formidable presence. Greenland, the most immense landmass in the Arctic, has proved a viable addition to Alaska as a means for America to beef up its Arctic presence. American forces officially entered the island in the 1940s. In 1946, the U.S. proposed to buy Greenland from Denmark for $100 million in gold bullion. The deal did not happen, but in 1951, a treaty with Denmark allowed America exclusive jurisdiction over defense areas in Greenland. In 1953, America built the Thule Air Force Base (now Pituffik) on the island. In 1959, Greenland became part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, a joint Canadian and American air and space security system. Interest in the island waned in the 20th century, but it remains vital to the security of America, its NATO allies, and the West. In 2018, the U.S. Second Fleet, responsible for the North Atlantic, was reestablished. An American consulate in Greenland, closed in 1952, was reopened in 2020. As Walter Berbrick of the U.S. Naval Institute says, Whoever holds Greenland will hold the Arctic.its the most important strategic place in the Arctic perhaps the world. Arctic security concerns have heightened as China and Russia team up. It is feared that Russia may grant greater access to China, allowing it to develop a military presence. Canada recently announced two new Arctic consulates, in Alaska and Greenland. It is investing in Arctic security and has integrated five Nordic allies who are NATO members. Denmark is equally alarmed, and is increasing defense spending for Greenland. During the first Trump administration, the U.S. signed an agreement with the Arctic Council in 2018 to enhance regional scientific cooperation. The following year, the U.S. blocked an Arctic Council statement on climate change, which could have been used as an excuse to undermine the Wests strategic interests in the Arctic. President Trumps return to the White House means that Chinese incursions into the Arctic will be thwarted, and the complex challenges of the Arctic will be better managed. Sewards Alaska purchase was initially called folly, but in hindsight, it was praised. The urgent need to counter Sino-Russian designs in the Arctic will surely make Americans judge Trump in a much better light than they did Sewardnow and in the future. As bad as starting the year off with a terrorist incident, there are far worse things yet to face. Our ability to overcome the challenges that existed to varying degrees ever since our country was founded has declined sharply. Even conservatives arent up to the task. Watching how the Speaker of the House was selected reveals that we are too often paralyzed by the perfect is the enemy of good mindset. This mindset means we are unable to face reality and address our challenges directly, a primary one of which is China. This must change if we are to survive and prosper. An Economist article asks, Is Western Culture Stopping Kids from Growing Up? but stops short of asking the right questions. If our children cant learn what it means to grow up, then how can they effectively and logically evaluate the world around them? This single question may be the most relevant to our nations future for the next 100 years. Kidults will be the predominant human lifeform in America for the foreseeable future. As they grow older but not wiser, China will try to exploit this once-in-a-lifetime weakness to counter their own self-inflicted wounds. Image by Grok. Americas weakness is centralization and a new American oligarchy that is much less patriotic than it is aligned with what its members see as a new world order. China has been increasingly involved in efforts to influence this oligarchy in U.S. politics and society. This includes intensive lobbying, control of foreign media outlets, and sophisticated disinformation campaigns. Indeed, China helped create the oligarchy by successfully penetrating our political and economic engines. Its influence operations are cause for concern and have been the subject of much scrutiny and debate. TikTok is one of hundreds of ongoing influence operations intending to learn more about us, determine our weaknesses, amplify them, and foment internal discord and division. The reality is that China is plagued by problems that America can exploit rather than having China exploit Americas problems. Chinas one-child policy (1979-2015) will likely be remembered as the greatest strategic blunder by a single country ever. It aimed to control population growth but has had significant negative consequences. While it successfully reduced the birth rate, it also led to a rapidly aging population, a skewed gender ratio (48.6% females in China vs. 50.41 here), and a shrinking workforce. Chinese doctors have performed more than 330 million abortions since the one-child policy commenced. According to official data from the health ministry, a significant majority were females. How much will Chinas population decline in the next 75 years? According to the United Nations, Chinas population could drop from its current 1.4 billion to around 1.313 billion by 2050. By the end of the century, some projections suggest the population could fall to as low as 488 million . However, attributing the entire decline to the one-child policy alone oversimplifies the issue. Since the policy was relaxed in 2015, allowing families to have two children and then again in 2021 to three children, the birthrate has not rebounded as expected. In 2023, Chinas birth rate was 1.09, far below the replacement rate of 2.1 needed to maintain population stability. These demographic challenges now affect Chinas economic growth and social stability. The declining population will affect Chinas military, economic, and strategic decisions. With fewer people available for military service, China will face challenges maintaining a large and effective military force. Technological advancements, financial stability, and geopolitical strategies shape Chinas military actions. Near-term aggressiveness by China today may reflect the understanding that China is at its peak on multiple levels. I expect China to exhibit maximum aggressiveness in fulfilling its ambitions (much as Russia is doing in Ukraine) during this era of American decline and indecisiveness. For all its bluster and chest-beating, China is on an irreversible downward trajectory and may be unable to hold on to its superpower status. China is desperate to lock in gains now, believing it can set the conditions and terms for the worlds future. Communism and Godlessness define China. Chinas policies are heavily influenced by its communist ideology, which promotes atheism and seeks to align religious practices with the states political agenda. The Chinese Communist Party has implemented policies to control and regulate religious activities, ensuring they align with the partys goals and Marxist vision. This includes the sinicization of religion, which aims to integrate religious practices with Chinese culture and socialist values. Given all of Chinas problems, the time is right for America to push back against its anti-American depredations. There is an opening for Trump to launch a major course reversal in non-military policies. God bless America. Author, Businessman, Thinker, and Strategist. Read more about Allan, his background, and his ideas to create a better tomorrow at www.1plus1equals2.com Antony Blinken was the Democrat/socialist/communist (D/s/c) fixer who rounded up the 51 intelligence experts who branded Hunter Bidens laptop Russian disinformation. He, and they, knew better. The FBI had that laptop long before and authenticated it, but Blinken and Co. had political dirty work to do and were more than glad to do it. When he was Secretary of State under Ronald Reagan, George Schultz would invite newly appointed ambassadors to his office and ask them to point out their country on an enormous globe. All would point out the country they were assigned. Schultz would then point to America and tell them their country is the United States. It was a necessary and important point. Far too many State Department employees and ambassadors go native, representing foreign interests rather than American interests. For his partisan, political efforts Blinken was made Secretary of State, and in that job, he has worked hard against American interests and the interests of our allies. In the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 Hamas slaughter of Israelis and the taking of hostages, including Americans, Blinken didnt place blame where it belonged. He immediately did his best to protect Hamas: Graphic: X Screenshot Since that disgraceful but representative reflex, Blinken has worked hard to protect and preserve Hamas while hampering and thwarting Israel. His diplomatic chops have not extended to securing the release of the hostages Hamas continues to hold. Blinken recently and inadvertently explained why he has so spectacularly failed: Shortly after news broke of the release of the video of Liri Albag, The New York Times published an interview with outgoing U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken. Blinken said that Hamas has refused to agree to release the hostages in exchange for a ceasefire for two reasons. In his words, There have been two major impediments, and they both go to what drives Hamas. One has been whenever there has been public daylight between the United States and Israel and the perception that pressure was growing on Israel, weve seen it: Hamas has pulled back from agreeing to a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The other thing that got Hamas to pull back was their belief, their hope that there would be a wider conflict, that Hezbollah would attack Israel, that Iran would attack Israel, that other actors would attack Israel, and that Israel would have its hands full and Hamas could continue what it was doing. Blinkens lack of self-awareness is as stunning as it is horrifying. Hostages, including Americans, have remained in the hands of Islamist savages who torture, rape and murder them because Harris/Biden/Blinkens hostility toward Israel encourages Hamas to keep them. He knows that, yet he continues to oppose Israeli victory and encourage Islamist terror. He also admitted he knows his support for Hamas has encouraged it to believe their war against Israel and Western Civilization would expand as more and more Islamist terrorist organizations and Islamist nations and their allies joined Hamas jihad. Yet, he continues to do all he can to support and preserve Hamas. He knew it on October 7, as the invaluable Caroline Glick notes: Under harsh questioning from the Times anti-Israel reporter Lulu Garcia-Navarro, Blinken revealed that U.S. pressure on Israel began immediately after Oct. 7, 2023, and became a central feature of U.S. policy in relation to the war from its very earliest days. From the outset, the provision of unlimited supplies to Gazaeuphemistically referred to as humanitarian aidhas been the constant focus of U.S. pressure on Israel. Hamas had carried out the largest slaughter of Jews since the Holocaust, but Blinkens priorities were not on supporting our ally Israel, but on supporting Hamas: Weve said from Day 1 that how Israel does that matters. And throughout, starting on Day 1, we tried to ensure that people had what they needed to get by. The very first trip that I made to Israel five days after Oct. 7, I spent with my team nine hours in the IDFs headquarters in Tel Aviv, six stories underground with the Israeli government, including the prime minister, including arguing for hours on end about the basic proposition that the humanitarian assistance needed to get to Palestinians in Gaza. Blinkens concern went far beyond merely feeding Palestinians, the overwhelming majority of whom fully supported Hamas murder and hostage taking: Blinken could have added that by demanding that Israel feed the people of Gaza, he and Biden removed any fear Hamas leaders might have had that the people would overthrow them. Unconcerned with that prospect, Hamas felt no pressure to release the hostages. Glick notes that in his final days in office, Blinken remains true to his antisemitic ideology. Hes working to get the UN to condemn Israel for not supporting Hamas enough. Donald Trump has threatened dire consequences if Hamas doesnt release all hostages before his Inauguration. Continually encouraged by Blinken, Hamas has called Trumps bluff. Unlike Antony Blinken, Trump knows his country, and hes not bluffing. On a different subject, if you are not already a subscriber, you may not know that weve implemented something new: A weekly newsletter with unique content from our editors for subscribers only. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. Not that I shall mourn the overdue demise of the Democrat party, but the way it is constituted right now, it cannot disappear a moment too soon. Wise Democrats will avoid the presently-constituted Party like the plague. The Democrat party under Joe Biden is dead and JoeCo. killed it. (JoeCo. = the people who have been running Joes presidency from day one. HINT: Its not Joe Biden.) Whoever has been jerking Joes strings lo these long, tedious, last four years has managed to do more damage to America than our enemies outside our borders, the ones who have openly vowed to incinerate the Great Satan. The latest horror show act is Joes release of 11 Yemeni terrorists from Guantanamo. I realize that the news reports are saying that these cretins will be going to Oman, but that isnt the point. The point is that this move is yet another spiteful, venal act from a little narcissist who has been forced to take his marbles (and his upholstery-clad companion) and go home, hopefully never to be seen again by clear eyes and minds seeking comity and decency. Joe Biden is amassing quite a few troublesome parting shots in order to try to make Americans and Trumps lives miserable. JoeCo. has so far enacted or attempted to enact laws and regulations that are specifically geared to enhance DEI in every part of government, to promote the disastrous and failed Green Agenda, to stop American offshore drilling so that we remain energy dependent, to favor Iran over Israel and China over America, so that his grift can continue and so that Iran-sympathetic factions can grow Where is the end to JoeCos venality? Is there no bottom to its Dark Tetrad qualities? (i.e. Psychopathy, Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Sadism.) Where does JoeCo. end and decency begin? JoeCo. has destroyed the Democrat party and made it into the Party of extremism, racism, incompetence, perversion, and not least, anti-American policies. They even managed to destroy the credibility of both polling and the mainstream news. But ask Joe and he will tell you he saved the world. No sane Democrat will want to stay in this Party as currently aligned. They need a new one, one that puts America and Americans first, sans the race-hustling and transgay promotions, sans the hate-filled anti-Christian worldview, sans the antisemitism, sans the bitterness only a sore loser displays. Joe is a loser. On his way out, rather than smooth the waters and go out a hero, he is roiling them in the hope that Trump and his garbage voters will suffer the tortures of the damned. News flash for JoeCo.: We will prevail. Your Dark Tetrad Party will suffer all that you tried to inflict on us. We win. Image generated by AI. Collins Dictionary recently announced its word of the year (brat), but it also published a shortlist containing other new phrases that were in the running, one of which was the term delulu, defined as utterly mistaken or unrealistic in ones ideas or expectations (obviously a slang take on delusional). Well, Janno Lieber, CEO of the Manhattan Transit Authority, is totally deluluNew Yorks new congestion pricing toll increase just hit, which people cant afford, but understandably so they dont want to surrender the safety of their personal vehicles and ride the subway. According to Lieber though, all that danger is just in peoples heads and the crime surge is simply a figment of our imagination, because, The overall stats are positive. Heres the story, from a Breitbart article today: Some of these high-profile incidents, you know, terrible attacks have gotten in peoples heads and made the whole system feel unsafe, Lieber said, addressing the recent subway crimes [snip] Last year we were actually at 12 and a half percent less crime than 2019, the last year before COVID, the MTA chair and CEO said. I mean its only been two weeks since one of Joe Bidens newcomers lit a sleeping Debrina Kawam on fire and watched her burn, while a police officer in uniform walked on by, completely unconcerned with the human barbecue on the subway car: BREAKING: The woman who was set on fire, killed on NYC Subway has been Identified as a 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, of New Jersey, who briefly spent stayed in homeless shelters. pic.twitter.com/OecgNiq3pF Gene Mikhov (@genegmb) December 31, 2024 Its also only been a matter of weeks since Daniel Pennys yearslong legal ordeal for protecting innocent people from a deranged man who was shouting homicidal desires at people on the subway finally ended. Its only been less than a week since a man was randomly shoved in front of a train and nearly killed by the impact, and since a retired MTA worker in her 70s fought off four teenage-looking attackers after being punched in the face and stomped on. For the life of me, I cant understand why anyone is reluctant to trust the word of the MTA? Heres an update: NYC subway riders are all terrified of being shoved in front of a train. pic.twitter.com/HCXmcRJ69S Breaking911 (@Breaking911) January 5, 2025 Despite all that though, Lieber accuses those of us noticing the negative trends and recognizing the very obvious why behind the changes of being confusedI wonder how todays crime rates would compare to the Rudy Giuliani years? As someone in the comments noted: Dont believe your lying eyes is always a poor strategy, but one the totalitarians always cling to when their policies are proving to be failures. Image: Schvaxet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. On December 13, the Supreme Court allowed several petrochemical and alternative fuel companies to receive standing to challenge the California Air Resources Boards (CARB) ability to obtain a waiver from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enact stringent greenhouse gas standards. The waiver would allow CARB to force automakers to zero out the sale of gasoline-powered light duty cars, trucks, and SUVs in California starting in model year 2035. The outcome is moot, for now. President-elect Trump will almost certainly withdraw the waiver. However, a future Democrat president almost certainly will grant the waiver if the Supreme Court rules against the plaintiffs, just as President Biden did on December 18. Whats at issue is CARBs ACC II, all-electric, zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate for the sale of light duty vehicles. CARB would be joined by 11 blue states, altogether currently accounting for 30 percent of national automobile sales. The mandate would not reduce global greenhouse gas emissions because the national standards would remain in place, a standard the Biden EPA has on course to be the equivalent of 41 mpg by that time. Of course, CARB hopes to lead by example, encouraging a future Democrat administration to adopt its mandate. But that would mean more, not fewer, carbon dioxide emissions for California and the nation if the EPA were to adopt it as its own. It would make the air dirtier and forestall important advances in vehicle safety. Better to dispense with the regulations altogether and leave consumers free to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs. Thats partly because stringent fuel economy mandates add thousands of dollars to the cost of a new vehicle, which encourages potential buyers to hold on to their older, more fuel-consuming vehicles. This is what economists call the Gruenspecht effect, named after Howard Gruenspecht, the former head of the nonpartisan Energy Information Administration (EIA). Its also because less fuel-consuming vehicles lower the cost of each mile driven, incentivizing their owners to put more miles on them than on the more fuel-intensive vehicles theyve been driving, a phenomenon economists call the rebound effect. In a subsequent study titled Zero Emissions Vehicles: A Dirty Little Secret, Gruenspecht found that EV mandates increase rather than reduce emissions while imposing substantial costs on California consumers, and that even a small increase in their use will generate extra emissions that will more than offset emissions reductions from ZEVs. The higher EV costs would force many consumers to go without the latest driver assistance systems, not to mention the performance, carrying capacity, driving range, and numerous other features that they can afford in a lower-priced gasoline-powered vehicle. The Biden mandates already add nearly $200 billion a year to the cost of federal regulation, thirty percent of the aggregate. Suppose instead that CARB would be unable to persuade a future Democrat-led EPA to go all electric in 2035, a mandate the Biden EPA rejected, instead favoring a 41-mpg mandate for that year. CARBs ZEV mandate would mean the auto companies would be free to sell vehicles averaging 33.6 mpg in the other 39 states, mostly red states, if the 2035 vehicles averaged the EPA-rated 85-mpg that the highest mileage Rivian SUVs and pickup trucks currently achieve. The mostly red state mandated averages would fall to 32.2-mpg per vehicle were the mandate set at the 115-mpg for the standard size Audi electric SUV. The current new-vehicle mandate is 27-mpg. (The fuel economy standards are set according to a harmonic average of gallons per mile instead of an arithmetic average of miles per gallon.) Under either scenario, the costs and (lack of) benefits of the California, not to mention federal mandate, would become plain for everyone to see. CARBs win might become a win for everyone everywhere. CARB and a Democrat-led EPA could no longer get away with cost/benefit analyses that assume ignorant and stupid auto buyers cant figure out whats best for themselves. The air would be cleaner, cars would be safer, and people would have more money to spend on the features that are best for them, best for the economy, and best for the environment. Everyone would come out a winner. Perhaps we should hope CARB gets its way after all. Tom Walton is a Heartland Institute Policy Adviser and was General Motors Director of Economic Policy Analysis before retiring in 2008. Image: Pixabay Now that Pope Francis has named his wokester ally, Cardinal Robert McElroy, to be chief of the Washington, D.C. archdiocese, it's pretty obvious the appointment isn't about shepherding the 667,000 Catholics of that area. Right out the gate, McElroy made clear his appointment's real purpose: To harass President Trump from his bully pulpit. According to Catholic News Agency: Cardinal Robert McElroy, the new archbishop of Washington, D.C., says he wishes success for President-elect Donald Trumps incoming administration but that hell be watching closely to see how Trump deals with immigrants who are in the country without legal status. The Catholic Church teaches that a country has the right to control its borders. And our nations desire to do that is a legitimate effort, McElroy said Monday, shortly after being introduced as Washingtons eighth archbishop during an online press conference at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle amid an unusually heavy snowstorm in the nations capital. At the same time, we are called always to have a sense of the dignity of every human person. And thus, plans which have been talked about at some levels of having a wider indiscriminate massive deportation across the country would be something that would be incompatible with Catholic doctrine. So well have to see what emerges in the administration. That 'wishes success ... but' is precious. He doesn't wish Trump success. He's actually appointed himself hall monitor, his job to follow Trump around and see if Trump, a non-Catholic, adheres to Catholic doctrine as the cardinal and all his wokester friends interpret it. Given that that's conveniently leftist and supported by all leftist Democrats, let's just say he'll be judging whether Trump is sufficiently Democrat for him, while wrapping all of his pronouncements in a religious veneer. His full statement as written is here. Now presumably, he'll be holding the specter of witholding Catholic votes for him as his club to Trump for not doing what he wants as he micromanages matters. There won't be any carrot. Which is pretty ironic. Here's a map of how many of the parishioners of Cardinal McElroy's San Diego County voted last November: Turns out Latinos in California do not like being called LatinX pic.twitter.com/5cExo5Cl5u Amy Reichert (@amyforsandiego) November 9, 2024 This, in an area that took more than a month to count the votes, huge patches of red were evident -- all loaded with Catholic Latinos, both in the southern part and out east in the back-county badlands. Those Catholic voters there in his own flock (until March, when he goes to D.C.) affirmatively voted for Trump and his promised mass deportations of mass-entering illegal border crossers. The voters didn't pay any attention to the cardinal. Perhaps that's because he didn't pay any attention to them -- he was so focused on enabling foreign illegals through the federal billions funneled to Catholic Charities that he didn't notice any of the problems mass illegal immigration was creating for the Latino citizen population in his diocese -- crime, litter, disorder, disrespect for local people, overcrowded hospitals, schools and jails, dangerous highways, higher taxes, blown-out city budgets, less available housing, creeping cartel corruption and violence, human trafficking, lower wages, fewer jobs, and migrant ingratitude. The election demonstrated, as Pope Francis put it, that he didn't actually have "the smell of the sheep." Meanwhile, McElroy's argument against mass deportations is a strange one, given that mass deportations can only follow mass illegal entries. Is he saying mass illegal entries are O.K., but mass deportations are not? Which illegal entries are O.K. and how much money can be allowed to go to cartels from migrants who want in without bothering to apply to come legally? Here in the states, if a small number of people break the law and enter illegally, a small number will need to be deported. If a large number enter illegally, then a large number will need to be deported. It's called one set of laws for everyone, or, rule of law, as they intone over at his alma mater of Harvard. The last problem with his statement is his indirect accusation of human rights violations against Trump even though Trump hasn't even taken office yet. Trump has not proposed an "undignified" deportation to mass illegal border crossers, and he never has. Migrants being deported don't ride home stuffed in the baggage compartments of the jets on their free flights home -- they get seat belts, free food, bathroom breaks, and all the basic accompaniments of a standard deportation flight. What they don't get is a "right" to stay in the states without lawful authorization. And yes, they do get deported home and not to some other place to figure it out. What he's trying to do is pre-paint Trump as a human rights violator violating all migrant dignity by deporting them as the law requires, even though Trump has never shown any interest in torturing migrants on the way out. He's building a "narrative" as the Democrats like to do -- that lawful deportation of many lawbreakers is somehow against "human dignity" and Trump isn't even in office yet. That's a smear, and pretty unbecoming of a cardinal. This is a pretty inauspicious beginning for a newly named cardinal. It's obviously the pope's doing, because we don't see him dispatching his catspaws to browbeat third world hellholes for their human rights violations, and for that matter, bad socialist economies that deprives locals of jobs, livelihoods, and human dignity -- making people want to migrate. Nor did we see him appointing a cardinal to bird-dog Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi on their pro-abortion promotion, "watching them closely." It's just Trump who gets this kind of hall monitor to follow him around. What a hypocritical picture. Image: Screen shot from America magazine video, via YouTube If you happen to find yourself in St. Peters Basilica at the Vatican today, that vibration you feel beneath your feet is likely caused by St. John Paul II spinning in his sacred crypt. John Paul, born Karol Josef Wojtyla and pope of the Catholic Church from 1978 until his death in 2005, would undoubtedly be reacting negatively to the action of his successor, Pope Francis, who this week chose Cardinal Robert McElroy of San Diego to take over as archbishop of Washington, D.C. McElroy is one of the most liberal cardinals in America and a staunch progressive supporter of present-day Pope Francis. The fact that McElroy has been an outspoken critic of Donald Trump and an advocate of progressive disruption among his followers can be seen only as an intentional stick in the eye of our newly re-elected leader. A month into Trumps first term, McElroy said, 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. We must disrupt those who train us to see Muslim men, women, and children as forces of fear rather than as children of God. He continued his criticism in 2018, when he said, regarding Trumps border wall, It is a sad day for our country when we trade the majestic, hope-filled symbolism of the Statue of Liberty for an ineffective and grotesque wall which both displays and inflames the ethnic and cultural divisions that have long been the underside of our national history, according to Millennial Journal. He also questions his own Churchs statements condemning abortion and calling for more understanding for the LGBT communities. I was born and raised Catholic, although I can certainly claim no prize for dutiful adherence to Catholic attendance preferences. Despite six years as an altar boy, I will undoubtedly need the intervention of my sainted mothers influence for my salvation, being confident that she is on first-name basis not only with John Paul II, but also with Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, her all-time favorite member of Catholic clergy. What my mother, and then I, because of her influence, found most compelling about those two clerics was their firm adherence to their beliefs. True beliefs should best be set in stone, not subject to idle breezes of progressive folly or mischief. No one amends the Ten Commandments. Acting as theological windsocks was not in the repertoire of Wojtyla or Sheen. Like so many other progressives, McElroy often misstates Donald Trumps intentions. Donald Trump does not want to tear families apart, but he does insist on adherence to our laws. He does not want to enflame our cultural and ethnic divides. He wants us to embody a cultural melting pot, a colorblind society. He wants an America that is great for every American, LGBT included. Pope Francis has done his Church and followers no favors by acting on his progressive, likely communist ideology. Placing a man like McElroy directly at the White House doorstep can only be seen as a provocation, if not an outright insult to a man who wants nothing more than unity in our nation. I can only hope that my mother might put in a word to Karol to urge a bit of divine action on the part of their Boss to help our great nation. It does seem He may be so inclined, having turned Donald Trumps head at exactly the necessary moment. The time now seems to be at hand to turn the heads of our present pope and his disciple in D.C., once again, to the right, which was necessary to save Donald Trumps life. This time, a right turn would likely aid in saving us all. Bill Hansmann is a dentist and dental educator with over fifty years in the profession. He continues to teach and write political blogs and semi-mediocre novels while living with his wife and cats in Georgia. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. HISD Superintendent Mike Miles announces that the Houston Independent School District will open Cullen Military Academy at Cullen Middle School in the 2024-2025 school year at Delmar Stadium on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Hattie Mae Educational Center is photographed Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024 in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Debra Kimber, 72, tries to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann Two Houston ISD schools combated heating issues as students started the spring semester with near-freezing temperatures Tuesday morning. Wind gusts brought wind chills as low as 15 degrees to the region as temperatures lingered at 30 degrees at 7 a.m. Tuesday. The school day began as scheduled for all area districts, albeit under chillier circumstances at Ray K Daily and Nat Q. Henderson elementary schools, Houston ISD said Tuesday. Space heaters were deployed at both schools after a broiler broke at one campus and another had temperatures teetering at 63 degrees HISD's threshold for intervention, the district said. The broiler is being fixed, according to HISD. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The district last canceled class for subfreezing temperatures Jan. 16, as officials urged people to stay off the roads due to ice and other hazardous roadway conditions. Three schools remained closed the next school day as several campuses experienced heating and plumbing issues. Houston ISDs state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said afterward that he was not sure it was the best decision to cancel classes for students during last Januarys freeze, saying school employees should see themselves as essential workers. Despite the noise, despite the warning (and) despite the people who are exaggerating saying we're gonna cost people's lives, I gotta ignore that and think about the kids and our core function, Miles said in Jan. 2024. "That doesn't mean we'll go to school when there's a hurricane. The district aims to have temperatures between 68 and 72 degrees in classrooms and said it begins considering moving students to warmer areas if they dip below 63 degrees for extended periods. Students are permitted to go to recess if the wind chill is above 36 degrees, HISD spokesperson Alex Elizondo said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cy-Fair, Spring, Conroe and Katy ISDs also began their spring semesters without interruption Tuesday. "Were excited to welcome you back tomorrow and start a new semester full of learning, growth, and memorable moments," Spring ISD said in a Tuesday morning social media post. "With temperatures dropping, be sure to bundle up and stay warm on your way to school." A cold weather advisory remained in effect for much of south and central Texas through Tuesday morning, according to the National Weather Service. Students and other early-morning commuters were advised to wear layers, hats and gloves and use caution while traveling outside. Area district officials still eyed severe weather warnings and dreary skies that could bring spats of wintry mixes to the Pineywoods and Brazos Valley regions later in the week. A day after Bush Continental Airport recorded 70 degree temperatures Sunday, a cold front descended upon southeast Texas, bringing with it the first cold snap of the year and coldest temperatures of an otherwise warmer than average winter. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Temperatures will continue to linger in the low 30s to mid-forties for the rest of the week, although the region will not experience a hard freeze and is unlikely to experience much ice or snow. Still, a wintry mix of precipitation could come to portions of the region Wednesday night into Thursday morning, with a possibility for freezing rain within Houston. Conditions at this time look best for freezing rain, however, cant rule out several folks seeing a wintry mix, weather service meteorologist Amaryllis Cotto wrote in the regional offices long-term forecast. We have another shot at it Thursday night into Friday morning, although the potential for wintry weather is slightly less and shifted more northward. School districts dont have to make up for a missed day of school if they already have enough minutes to meet the state requirement, which Houston ISD has under its District of Innovation designation, according to the Texas Education Agencys Student Attendance Accounting Handbook. While the chances of measurable snowfall remain below 10% in Houston, more measurable snow is likely to impact school districts near Dallas/Fort Worth this week. Advertisement Article continues below this ad South of the border, the New York Times "esta haciendo olas" as they say in Spanish when someone is making waves. Yes, it's turned into a big back and forth over fentanyl plants. Here is the story: Days after the New York Times (NYT) published a bombshell investigative report into alleged fentanyl manufacturing in Mexico, the Mexican federal government and the New York-based publication are continuing their public clash over opposing views on the articles factual accuracy. The article, which was published on Dec. 29, 2024, featured videos and photos of a supposed fentanyl manufacturing lab run by the notorious Sinaloa Cartel out of Culiacan, Sinaloa. Well, The Gray Lady has a new match and her name is President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico. The reaction south of the border is hilarious. Some are actually saying that President Trump was behind the story because he is from New York. Yes, someone said that in the Mexican Congress. Talk about being disconnected from reality. The opposition is using the story to make the case that President Sheinbaum, and especially her predecessor President Andres Lopez-Obrador, are angry because of allegations that they have a connection to infamous Sinaloa cartel. The article is fascinating because the plant is in a residential area in the heart of Culiacan, Sinaloa's capital, the exact opposite of claims that these plants are located in isolated places. Not this one. It's there in a major city, probably not too far from the airport or shopping centers. The reporters visited and photographed after negotiating the visit with the cartels or, some cynics would say, government officials. They found what they call cooks working under dangerous conditions. They would probably fail an OSHA test up here because the operation is very unsafe for the workers. We are talking fentanyl after all, a dangerous substance that can kill you, as thousands have learned. The workers do not have much protection, as the article points out. It's a bad place to work. Wonder how much they pay or what benefits they offer? Does the local mayor knows that this operation is there in a residential area? To say the least, the Mexican government is angry. So far, no one has explained how an operation of this type can exist in a residential area or who signed the zoning papers to let them relocate there. Honestly, it must be embarrassing to the Sheinbaum government that this is going on and a few NY Times reporters found it. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: NYT Hands off our Democracy has now become the rallying cry of the German ruling establishment and press. In a recent interview with the German magazine, Spiegel, Green chancellor candidate Robert Habeck was asked if he believed Musk to be a danger to Germany. He responded with the following. He [Musk] will do anything to push through his interests. 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. Just because he comes across as relaxed and builds electric cars, we should not be deceived. There is only one answer: Hands off our democracy, Mr. Musk! We cannot afford to be careless or naive. Germany has long been in the sights of foreign actors especially now during the election campaign. They see Germany as an easy target. Unfortunately, disinformation campaigns have a relatively easy time of it here. I guess from Habecks viewpoint, it is just fine for a European billionaire like George Soros, with murky ties to the Nazis in his youth, to interfere in U.S. politics, but it is intolerable for a U.S. billionaire to tweet a few words about the current German ruling establishment. It seems a little unfair to Musk. After all, it is not like Musk is funding a paramilitary group such as ANTIFA to stir up trouble prior to the presidential election. Moreover, as far as I know, Musk is not pouring millions into the campaign coffers of prosecutors who will go on to unleash a crime wave across their country. Musk is just stating the obvious that the current German ruling elites are fools. Life is full of ironies though and one might live to see the next German Chancellor award said U.S. billionaire with the Medal of Freedom just as our fading, feckless leader has done for said European billionaire. Image: Free image, Pixabay license. Let me be blunt: Merrick Garland is a foul carbuncle on the derriere of the worst of American politics. He has viewed his position as Attorney General of the United States as the vehicle for being the Democrat partys enforcer. With the power of the DOJ and FBI at his back, he has worked hard to destroy anyone who threatens Democrat party power. Nowhere has Garlands un-American mission been more obvious than with his approach to the events of January 6. For those who need a brief refresher course, January 6 came after a year of violent, deadly, and destructive leftist riots across America, with dozens killed and billions in damages through theft and arson. Much of the destruction was aimed directly against federal property (e.g., the attack on the White House and the effort to destroy a federal courthouse in Portland), but the DOJ, under both Bill Barr and Merrick Garland, was unmoved. Image by Grok. However, events on January 6 triggered something evil in Garlands rat-like little brain, turning him into a Soviet-style prosecutor. As a reminder, let me repeat a list of things we know about January 6, none of which point to an insurrection, and many of which indicate that the federal government was a provocateur: Following the events of January 6 (which the media and Democrat party instantly and suspiciously labeled an insurrection, almost as if theyd planned the whole thing in advance, only to un-label it once Ray Epps was charged), the FBI and DOJ embarked on the biggest manhunt and prosecution spree in American history. In a news item mourning the possibility that Trump may turn off the January 6 DOJ spigot, NPR proudly identifies what Merrick Garland did and is still doing: 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. 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. 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. Authorities have continued making new arrests since Trumps election victory. That includes people accused of assaulting police officers who were defending the Capitol. Given the actual facts (a protest that got out of hand, not an insurrection; Capitol Police opening sealed doors; helpless people carried inexorably into Congress by the crowd; seeming operatives getting a pass; etc.), the question everyone ought to be asking is how Garland and the DOJ are justifying these official vindictive acts, which are as large in scope as great as any seen after the American Revolution or the Civil War. The answer is by using the Big Lie. Thats what Merrick Garland did today, right before Congress certified Trumps election: On this day, four years ago, police officers were brutally assaulted while bravely defending the United States Capitol. They were punched, tackled, tased, and attacked with chemical agents that burned their eyes and skin. Today, I am thinking of the officers who still bear the scars of that day as well as the loved ones of the five officers who lost their lives in the line of duty as a result of what happened to them on January 6, 2021. (Emphasis mine.) In fact, not a single Capitol Police officer died as a direct result of events on January 6. You only have to look at how carefully Garland phrased that emphasized sentence to understand how dishonest it is to say that they lost their lives in the line of duty as a result of what happened to them on January 6, 2021. Officer Brian Sicknick died of a stroke following January 6. The first lie that the media promulgated was that he died from blunt-force trauma. However, even the New York Times was forced to admit that this claim was untrue. Theres also no evidence that, while Sicknick may have gotten some chemicals in his eyes, those chemicals caused him to have a stroke. After all, strokes are not a known side effect of bear spray. More importantly, the D.C. Medical Examiner conceded that Sicknick died of natural causes (a concession that finally came out after officials sat on the autopsy report long enough for the fake narrative to take hold). But what about the other four officers? They committed suicide. This act bespeaks mental health problems, and those are usually something long-standing, not something related to the events of a few hours. Take the story of Jeffrey Smith. According to his wife, he said he was afraid that he was going to die on January 6. Given that fear, why would he kill himself just eight days later? Its true that he was struck on the helmet and got some pain pills. His wife said he was in constant pain after thatbut again, people live with constant pain for years, with only some taking their lives. But eight days? Really? The actual story behind Smiths and other officers suicides is this: The families of Liebengood and Smith both sought to have them recognized as line of duty deaths, which would afford their families enhanced benefits. Its all about the money. Garland is a vile little weasel, except that weasels are cute and clever, while Garland is just a crude, mafioso-style enforcer. If I were Pam Bondi, Id fumigate the office he used before occupying it. The reports sound pretty wild out there but some, on places such as X, say President Trump is flying to Greenland tomorrow. I still haven't seen any confirmation after several hours of watching, so it might be eager beavers jumping the gun. However, it does seem pretty clear that Don Trump, Jr., Trump's oldest son, is making the trip -- and will hop off his plane tomorrow. According to Euractiv, a pan-European news site that is owned by the Brussels-based Mediahuis: Donald Trump Jr travelled to Greenland on Monday amid his fathers renewed interest in ownership of the island, and days after the leader of the autonomous territory of Denmark issued a push for independence. The head of Greenlands Department of Foreign Affairs, Mininnguaq Kleist, told Danish public radio DR that Trump Jrs visit is in a private capacity, and there have been no inquiries about a meeting with the Greenland government. But a source in Greenlandic politics told Euractiv that Trump Jr will meet with the head of the social democratic party, Erik Jensen. Jensen is minister for finance and tax in the Greenlandic government. The office of the Greenlandic premier, Mute Egede, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Egedes official calendar does not show any meetings with Trump Jr, but the source said a meeting between the two was possible. A spokesperson for the Danish ministry of foreign affairs told Euractiv: "This is not an official US visit." If it's true that Trump, too, will follow him the next day, it would be in his style for dramatic entries. He always was a showman. That said, the Trump, Jr. visit, coming on the heels of President Trump's call to purchase the island from Denmark, is interesting enough. Trump, Jr. loves going to wilderness and wild places, as he does with big game hunting in Africa. He also has worked with Trump on real estate deals, inspecting properties perhaps ahead of sales. This trip must seem like all of those. It also comes with interesting timing -- just as Greenland's prime minister, Mute Egede, has called for independence from Denmark. NEW: Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede calls for independence from Denmark as Donald Trump ramps up his calls for acquiring the territory. "It is now time to take the next step for our country," Egede said. "Like other countries in the world, we must work to remove the pic.twitter.com/uiRXzchjN7 Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 4, 2025 Something seems to be going on here. It may well be that Trump is striking while the iron is hot, a trademark of his governing style. Which calls to mind that the Danish government doesn't like it. Denmark's prime minister called Trump's interest in buying the island "absurd" during Trump's first term, forcing Trump to cancel a state visit and polls ahead of the U.S. presidential race showed that Denmark was an outlier in Trump-hate, topping all other parts of Europe. They may have had the Greenland interest in mind. Denmark has stepped up its defense spending on Greenland, and the king has just changed his country's coat of arms to make the polar bear representing Greenland larger and fiercer with a big red tongue, and the clubs on the cavemen more club-like, more Flintstone. danish king changed the royal coat of arms to feature greenland/faroe islands more prominently (the polar bear and ram) sneaky pic.twitter.com/lExei66Yu4 ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) January 6, 2025 The Daily Mail has some additional coverage on that, here. Which underlines once again that Trump seems to be serious about the purchase of Greenland to check the Russians who are making major inroads into control of the Arctic, and to check the Chinese, who are cornering the global market for rare earth minerals -- of which Greenland has considerable quantities. It looks pretty tame and showman-like thus far, and if Trump actually goes there, it will draw even more attention to his interest in acquiring the huge island. But behind the scenes, enormous maneuvering must be going on. This trip by Trump's son underscores that Trump is serious about acquiring Greenland, which is likely to get increasingly obvious as his presidency kicks in. Image: Screen shot from Twitter video. True emancipation for black folks will come only when they free themselves from the Democratic Party that formerly enslaved their bodiesand more recently their minds and souls. Fortunately, to do this, they do not need the assistance of an Abraham Lincoln or a Ulysses S. Grant, only the conviction to act of their own free will. The decision to quit partaking in what is a barely disguised vote-for-cash-and-services scam is sadly not an easy one for a great many people of any color, though it should be. Leaving the plantation of enervation, entitlement, bitterness, indolence, and indignity requires awareness, character, and integrity. And an independence of mind and spirit. Things that Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King, Jr. possessed in abundanceand to great effect. If the presidential election of 2024 is any indication, perhaps, ever so slowly, the proverbial worm is turning. The growing insanity of the Democrat party and the nauseating condescension and disdain elites constantly exhibit towards those who would disagree with themor disobey themseems to have finally repulsed and awakened many in nearly every demographic group, with the possible exception of young, single, white women (A.K.A. Karens.) The stunningly smug and entitled outlook of top Democrats was perfectlyif accidentallysummed up by President Biden when he told Charlamagne tha God on his popular Breakfast Club radio show: If you have a problem figurin out whether youre for me orTrump, then you aint black. Nice of the old white master to tell black folks that dare to think for themselves that they are not, in fact, black folks. Blexit is in truth an entrance to a new world, one marked by a rebirth of freedom. People such as Tyrus, Joe Rogan, Hotep Jesus, and Sage Steele comprise what can be essentially described as a new, if figurative Underground Railroad. Let freedom ring. Image: Johnny Silvercloud, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr, unaltered. Who is Matthew Graves? Hes the US Attorney for the District of Columbia, until January 16 anyway: Matthew M. Graves announced today that he is resigning as United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, effective January 16, 2025, after serving in the role for more than three years. So what? There are plenty of US Attorneys. Whats special about Graves, and are we sad or glad hes leaving? His resignation announcement brags: On January 6, 2021, a violent mob of several thousand individuals stormed the Capitol and the United States briefly lost control of the grounds around the Capitol and much of the Capitol, itself. More than 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the siege of the Capitol, making it the largest single-day mass assault of law enforcement officers in our nations history. These events triggered the largest investigation in DOJ history. To date, roughly 1,600 people have been charged in connection with the attack with almost 1,100 having already been sentenced for their conduct. There have been over 170 contested trials with the United States prevailing in more than 99% of them. These convictions include the first seditious conspiracy convictions since the trials stemming from the first bombing of the World Trade Center in the 1990s. Because politically motivated violence and destruction rip at the fabric of our society, Mr. Graves made federally prosecuting such crimes a priority. The United States prevailed because every judge and jury involved in DC, arguably the most militantly Democrat/socialist/communist (D/s/c) city in America, was delighted to uphold the Harris/Biden Administrations insurrection narrative. Never before in American history has such a wholescale deprivation of the rights of the accused, punishment far in excess of the offense and mass political prosecution, occurred. The J6 cases were Graves claim to fame, and he gloated about jailing grandmothers who, invited into the Capitol building by Capitol Police, peacefully took in the sights and left. Surely such a crusader for justice also struck down rampant DC crime? Nah. What Graves has failed to do is prosecute actual criminals in the nation's capital. In 2023, there was a 35% increase in homicides, a 67% increase in robberies, an 82% increase in car thefts and a 23% increase in thefts. Overall, violent crime was up 39%, and all crime was up 26%. But Graves's office of 330 prosecutors declined to prosecute in 67% of cases. That's the polar opposite of their prosecutorial war on hundreds of pro-Trump protesters. The Heritage Foundation pointed out the U.S. Attorney's office in San Diego had the same number of prosecutors, and only a 22.6 % declination rate. Graves was much too busy upholding the insurrection narrative to worry about real violent criminals. But even though hes fleeing before Donald Trump fires him, he continues to pursue and prosecute J6 defendants in the nine days he has left. As a US Attorney, Graves must have been dedicated to the rule of law and to, above all else, fairly and equally ensuring justice was done, right? Right? Speaking of Democrats, Graves also sent Trump supporters Steve Bannon and Peter Navarro to prison for four months for refusing to testify to the Pelosi-Picked Panel probing Jan. 6. Graves denounced Bannon for refusing to cooperate with Pelosi: "His refusal to do so was deliberate and now a jury has found that he must pay the consequences." But when House Republicans held Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress over his refusal to comply with a subpoena for audio recordings of President Joe Biden's mentally bumbling interviews with special counsel Robert Hur, no one was going to send anyone to jail, just as these partisans ignored the contempt of Congress finding for Obama's Attorney General Eric Holder. There were no consequences. Apart from his occasional public gloating, Graves, with the help of the D/s/c media, has largely remained under the radar. While few Americans have ever heard of Graves, fewer still know articles of impeachment were filed against him in May of 2023 by Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene: Graphic: X Screenshot Graves is systematically criminalizing political dissent at the behest of his handlers in the White House. By focusing so much effort on the persecution of political prisoners, Graves has diminished the manpower needed to fight crime not just in DC, but all over the country. DOJ attorneys have been transferred to DC just to help Graves wage his war against political opponents. Graphic: X Screenshot Unfortunately, the impeachment went nowhere. It never received a vote in Congress. One would expect the governments front man for prosecuting political enemies to have been given star treatment in the news, but a Google search turns up only brief mentions of his resignation and the impeachment attempt. Donald Trump has promised, as soon as he is inaugurated, to undo pretty much everything Graves did. Thus does the J6 persecution of innumerable innocent Americans end. Graves brags; Trump dispenses actual justice. On a different subject, if you are not already a subscriber, you may not know that weve implemented something new: A weekly newsletter with unique content from our editors for subscribers only. These essays alone are worth the cost of the subscription. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. In the world of grand promises and bold claims, the line between confidence and deception can blur all too easily. What begins as ambition can quickly spiral into illusion, and the pressure to maintain appearances grows heavier with every passing moment. In 1783, James Price, a chemist and self-proclaimed alchemist, found himself in such a predicament. Trapped in a web of his own making, he chose a tragic end over the humiliation of exposure. James Price was born James Higginbotham in London in 1752. As a young man, he changed his surname to Price in accordance with the wishes of a deceased relative who had left him a significant inheritance. Little is known about his early education, but he went on to study at Oxford University, where he excelled academically. By the age of 25, he had earned a Master of Arts degree, and in 1778, he was awarded a Doctor of Medicine, largely in recognition of his contributions to chemistry. Just three years later, in 1781, he was elected a member of the prestigious Royal Society. The Alchemist Discovering Phosphorus by Joseph Wright of Derby (17341797) Despite his academic accolades, there are no surviving records detailing the specific nature of Price's chemical research at Oxford. What is clear, however, is that he eventually turned away from the empirical foundations established by pioneers like Francis Bacon and Robert Boyle, venturing instead into the arcane world of alchemy. In 1782, he embarked on an ambitious projectone that would ultimately unravel both his career and his life. Price acquired a country house in Stoke, near Guildford in Surrey, where he constructed and outfitted an impressive laboratory. His goal was one that had captivated alchemists for centuries: the transmutation of base metals into precious ones, such as gold and silver. Unlike his many predecessors, however, Price appeared to have achieved success. After showcasing his results privately to a select group of friends, he decided to stage a series of public experiments to further demonstrate his discoveries. In a pamphlet published in May 1782 and titled An account of some experiments on mercury, silver and gold made at Guildford, Price describes an experiment conducted on May 6, 1782, before an audience comprising of some of the most respected men in the country. The demonstration began with a flux mixture composed of borax, a small piece of charcoal, and a small piece of nitre, all pounded together with a pestle under the watchful eyes of his audience. The carefully inspected mixture was then pressed into a small Hessian crucible, onto which half an ounce of mercury was added. At this point, Price introduced what he claimed to be the key to his success: half a grain of a certain powder, of a deep red colour. It was these mysterious powders, Price insisted, that made his remarkable results possible. James Price. The crucible was placed in the fire of a moderate red heat, with Price keeping a close eye on developments and urging others too to watch every stage of the process. In about a quarter of an hour, from the projection of the powder, and the placing of the crucible in the fire, he observed to the company, who on inspection found his observation true, that the mercury though in a red hot crucible, shewed no signs of evaporation, or even of boiling. The heat was gradually increased, and an iron rod was dipped into the crucible. To the astonishment of the onlookers, small globules of a whitish-coloured metal appeared. Price noted that this material could not be mercury, as it remained stable even under intense heat. He explained that it was an intermediate substance in the transmutation process. The fire was then raised further, and more borax was added. When the crucible was finally removed and broken open, a globule of yellow metal was discovered at the bottom, with smaller globules scattered throughout the residue. The metal was carefully collected and weighed, amounting to ten grams. The sample was sealed in a vial and sent away for testing. Yet, to those present who had witnessed the experiment, there was little doubt. Sure enough, the following day Price's assertions were confirmed: he had produced gold. Price conducted a total of seven public demonstrations, each showcasing what appeared to be the successful transmutation of mercury into gold and, later, silver. For the latter, he used a different powderthis one white in colour. Though he refused to reveal the composition or preparation method of his mysterious powders, he willingly submitted the resulting gold and silver to reputable assayers, who consistently declared the metals to be genuine. In a gesture that underscored his confidence in his results, Price even presented some of the gold he had produced to King George III. The Alchemist by Mattheus van Helmont (1623-1679) Prices fabulous experiments took place during a transformative period in the history of science. Alchemy, once a respected pursuit, was increasingly being overshadowed by the principles of modern science, which emphasized precise measurement, repeatability, and empirical observation. Central to this shift was Robert Boyle, often considered the father of modern chemistry. Boyle approached his experiments with meticulous care, recording every conceivable variable, from atmospheric pressure to the phases of the moon, in an effort to eliminate uncertainty and bias. This methodical approach laid the groundwork for modern chemistry as it emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries. By the early 18th century, a clear distinction had been established between alchemy and chemistry. Alchemy became synonymous with the quest for gold-making, a pursuit now widely dismissed as fraudulent. Consequently, alchemists were increasingly viewed as charlatans, and their work as little more than elaborate deception. Against this backdrop of scepticism, it was no surprise that many men of science, including Prices colleagues at the Royal Society, viewed his claims with deep suspicion. Joseph Black, the eminent Scottish chemist, known for his discoveries of magnesium, carbon dioxide, latent heat, and specific heat, wrote that Price's claim was "nothing but a mass of errors throughout." Black goes on to say: I thought it was necessary, however, to take some notice of his pamphlet in my introductory lecture this season, but my only intention in this was earnestly to dissuade my pupils from giving way in the least to the ruinous notions and pursuits of Alchemy, which Dr. P's publication, so far as it may be credited, would have a tendency to encourage. I reminded my audience that numerous experiments to prove the possibility of transformation had been formerly exhibited or described which were afterwards discovered to have been founded on mistakes or frauds: and observed that the present age does not require incentive to experimental inquiries, with a view to deterring my young friends from entering Alchemical Notions or Projects. Eventually, the Royal Society asked Price to make another demonstration, this time under the supervision of its members. Price refused, arguing that his previous experiments had already been performed in the presence of honourable and competent witnesses, leaving nothing to be gained from repeating them. However, the Society was adamant. Price was reminded that not only his personal honour but also the integrity of one of the worlds most esteemed scientific institutions was at stake. An alchemist peering into a glass vessel, by James Northcote (1746-1831) Price tried to excuse himself by saying that he had exhausted his supply of powders and that the process of preparing it was not only difficult and tedious but injurious to his health as well. Moreover, he admitted that while the results of his experiments were valuable as scientific discoveries, they were far from being commercially viable. According to his calculations, producing just one ounce of gold cost around seventeen pounds sterlinga sum vastly exceeding the golds actual market value of less than four pounds. But the Royal Society would have none of it. They insisted that Price must repeat his experiments under the observation of an appointed panel, leaving no doubt about the legitimacy of his claims. The pressure proved inescapable. Reluctantly, Price conceded and agreed to prepare a fresh batch of his powders for a final demonstration that would either cement his legacy or expose him as a fraud. Price left London, in January 1783, and shut himself up in his laboratory at Guildford ostensibly to start production of the miraculous powders. What he did instead, was distil a measure of laurel water from the fresh leaves of the cherry laurel. Laurel water was historically used as treatment for asthma, coughs, indigestion and dyspepsia, and as a sedative narcotic. However, laurel water also contains hydrogen cyanide, an extremely toxic compound. During this time, Price also took the sombre step of writing his will. On August 3, 1783, members of the Royal Society arrived in Stoke to witness the long-anticipated demonstration. The initial excitement surrounding Prices experiments had waned considerably due to the repeated delays and his begrudging conduct. As a result, only three representatives appeared at the laboratory on the appointed day. Though visibly disappointed by the poor turnout, Price greeted the delegates with cordiality and led them into his workspace. Suddenly, he stepped aside and drank the laurel water he had prepared from a flask. Within a few moments, Price collapsed and before the men realized what had happened, the chemist lay lifeless on the floor. No one knows for certain what led Price to his terrible end. It is likely that he initially deceived himself, genuinely believing in the efficacy of his powders. Then by natural sequence, attempted either wilfully or in ignorance to deceive others. When he realized his error, he did not have the moral courage to confess openly and boldly that he had been mistaken. Whether out of shame, fear of public humiliation, or sheer despair, Price chose a final, irreversible act. He was just thirty-one years old. References: # Denis Duveen, James Price (1752-1783) Chemist and Alchemist # Willow Winsham, All That Glitters: James Price and the Death of Alchemy # Thebookofdays # James Price, An account of some experiments on mercury, silver and gold : made at Guildford in May, 1782, in the laboratory of James Price Google is the most popular and widely used search engine in the world. For some time now, Microsoft has been trying to take a share of the market with Bing, its own online search engine. While the companys service is decent, many prefer to stick with Google by default. That said, it seems that Microsoft is tricking users into thinking Bing is, in fact, Google. Google Search is characterized by the Doodles that the company implements in the search bar. Doodles are dynamic drawings or sketches that adapt to special dates and that sometimes even hide easter eggs. Bing is very different in this regard, betting on a main page with a simple search bar over a wallpaper and a news carousel below. Bing disguises itself as Google Search to try to trick you However, Windows Latest found something interesting while using Bing. When you type Google into Microsofts search engine, you wont see the usual results page. The first thing youll get is a search bar with a sort of Doodle that mimics the style implemented by Google in its Search service. This search bar is, of course, the Bing one. The results for your search will actually be available at the bottom of the UI. We were able to reproduce this on our side, as shown below. Theres an x button in the top right corner of Bings Doodled search bar. If you click it, youll remove it from the UI, and you wont get that fake Google bar as a result when searching for Google in Bing again. You can still see it again if you try the search in an incognito tab, though. Its striking that Microsoft is resorting to tricks like this. The company has worked hard to make Bing a strong competitor to Google by adding unique features such as the Copilot AI-powered tech. However, its not a good idea to try to manipulate peoples actions into using your services. When they discover the truth, it will leave a negative impression. This is comparable to those annoying fake ads that take you to a completely different site than the one advertised. Those of you who are familiar with Yukai Engineering, a Japanese startup, know that you can expect odd products from the company. Well, Mirumi kind of belongs in that category, the companys fluffy robot that made an appearance at CES 2025. Mirumi is a fluffy new robot that was shown off at CES 2025 Considering that were seeing more and more robots at CES every year, its not easy to be surprised these days. Well, Mirumi sure did leave an impression. This fluffy little robot looks like a tiny yeti, at least to our eyes. It looks very cute, and it doesnt do much. All it does is stare at you and move its head around a little bit. It kind of looks shy most of the time, as its trying to look away. The company wanted to emulate the experience of meeting eyes with a baby in public. Mirumi is basically expected to bring some joy to random people. It has long arms using which it can cling to various objects, including a purse, for example, or your hand. This robot has a distance sensor on the inside and an inertial measurement unit. That way it can tell when there are people nearby and when its on the move or being touched. It can provide different reactions to different interactions. It usually either hides his face, or peeks to look at people. It can last for about 8 hours on a charge, and it will cost $70 Engadget describes its weight as a weight of a little kitten. This robot is rechargeable, and it can last for about eight hours on a single charge. Mirumi will cost $70 once it becomes available to purchase. Were not sure when will that happen, however, as it needs to go through crown-funding first. That will happen later this year. Were also not sure if it will be sold globally or not, as not even Yukai knows that yet. The company showed off white, black, and peach-colored Mirumis at CES 2025. Were not sure what will all the final colors be, though. First direct high-speed train linking Xi'an to Hong Kong enters service Ecns.cn) 08:23, January 07, 2025 (ECNS) -- At 11:04 a.m. on Sunday, the G828 high-speed train departed Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, directly for Hong Kong, marking the first train to operate along this route. Round trip between "Silk Road's starting point" and "Pearl of the Orient" Xi'an is the starting point of the Silk Road, while Hong Kong is a major global hub for finance, trade, shipping, and innovation. The launch of the high-speed rail service connecting the "Silk Road's starting point" and the "Pearl of the Orient" is expected to inject new momentum into economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges and cooperation between northwest China and Hong Kong. The G828 high-speed train departs Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, directly for Hong Kong, on Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/ Zhang Yuan) On Sunday, the inaugural G828/5 train departed Xi'an North Railway Station at 11:04 a.m., passing through major stations like Huashan North, Luoyang's Longmen, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, and Guangzhou South, to arrive in Hong Kong's West Kowloon at 9:09 p.m., taking 10 hours and 5 minutes. The G826/7 train departed Hong Kong at 9:07 a.m. and arrived in Xi'an at 8:01 p.m., taking 10 hours and 54 minutes. Starting from Sunday, daily direct high-speed rail services between Xi'an and Hong Kong will operate with CR400BF-Z Fuxing bullet trains, offering comfort and sufficient capacity for passengers. Experiencing the charm of Chang'an and Hong Kong in two themed carriages To enhance the travel experience for passengers on the inaugural Xi'an-Hong Kong train, Xi'an Railway Bureau carefully designed themed carriages. The No. 10 carriage, themed "Impressions of Chang'an," features panels and windows adorned with two traditional Chinese scroll paintings. Chang'an is the ancient site located near today's Xi'an. The scrolls have a base color with embedded auspicious cloud patterns, symbolizing good fortune. The window decals incorporate illustrations of the "24 Solar Terms of Chang'an," showcasing the bustling life and rich cultural history of this ancient site. In contrast, the "Impressions of Hong Kong" themed carriage features a modern mosaic design on the windows, highlighting local scenery, iconic tea restaurants, neon signs, and other signature elements. This design gives passengers a taste of Hong Kong's unique atmosphere before arrival. Walking between the two carriages feels like a journey through time and space, bridging the ancient and modern, and connecting Shaanxi and Hong Kong. "I didn't expect this inaugural train to have so many unique features," said Mr. Li, a passenger from Xi'an traveling to Hong Kong to visit relatives, "The themed carriages are very immersive, making this journey truly unforgettable". A lion dance performance is held at the launch ceremony for the inaugural Fuxing high-speed train service between Xi'an North and Hong Kong's West Kowloon on Jan. 5, 2024. (China News Service/ Zhang Yuan) Cultural displays bring joyful experiences to passengers At the Xi'an-Hong Kong train launch site, Xi'an Railway Bureau set up five cultural display zones showcasing Shaanxi's history, Hong Kong's urban scenery, local cuisines along the route, and intangible cultural heritage. Passengers took photos and received a stamp by showing their inaugural train tickets. Additionally, flash mobs like the Ansai waist drum dance and lion dance gave passengers a special experience. Besides, Xi'an Railway Bureau, in collaboration with the Beilin District Bureau of Culture, Tourism, and Sports, launched a mobile museum on the train. Duan Yue, the cultural and tourism ambassador of Beilin, appeared in traditional Hanfu attire and showcased iconic Beilin intangible cultural heritage works to passengers. The exquisite paper-cutting art and finely crafted shadow puppets received much admiration. Additionally, passengers could enjoy cultural and creative works displayed in the dining car or scan the digital museum-themed posters on the windows to enter VR panoramic mode. This allowed them to virtually explore the Beilin Museum, Xi'an Museum, and other online exhibitions, experiencing a thousand-year digital journey while traveling by train. Enhancing service quality for better travel The Xi'an-Hong Kong train crew debuted in new uniforms, welcoming passengers from both regions with a fresh look. "To ensure a premium travel experience, we underwent six weeks of intensive training in business etiquette, service skills, Hong Kong lifestyle customs, and communication in Cantonese, English, and sign language," said Li Jishuangzi, the train service manager. Launch of the direct Xi'an-Hong Kong train not only provides convenience for passengers traveling between the two cities but also enriches the multi-layered transportation network between them, promoting deeper cooperation and exchanges. As economic, talent, and cultural collaborations between Shaanxi and Hong Kong deepen, this train, spanning more than a thousand kilometers, will further shorten the distance between the two regions, boosting Shaanxi's collaborative development with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Hattie Mae Educational Center is photographed Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024 in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Houston ISD kicked off the New Year by switching from Aetna to UnitedHealthcare for employee health care benefits. HISD employees have three medical networks to choose from Kelsey-Seybold medical providers, most Memorial Hermann Health medical providers or a high-deductible plan with a broader network. The district's new pharmacy benefits provider will be Optum Rx, a partner of UnitedHealthcare. Advertisement Article continues below this ad HISD did not respond to a request for comment. The district is the city's largest employer with roughly 30,000 workers. Jackie Anderson, president of the Houston Federation of Teachers representing around 7,000 employees, said the union is monitoring employees' social media responses to the switch. Some have shared online this switch is costing more money and their deductible is higher, Anderson said. "I don't know ... how they made the decision, how they arrived at the decision for this insurance, but what I understand and from what I'm reading, it's horrible," Anderson said. More from Nusaiba Mizan: Uncertified teacher counts increase at majority of HISD schools from last academic year Advertisement Article continues below this ad The union was not warned that the switch to UnitedHealthcare was occurring and did not have any input on the change. Prior to the state-appointed administration, a member of the union used to meet with the district to look at benefit offerings as part of a committee, Anderson said. With about 200 members and an affiliate of the Texas State Teachers Association, Houston Education Association president Michelle Williams said she was not aware of the change until open enrollment. She is hearing that the change increased many people's prescription costs. Separately, Alief ISD also switched from Aetna to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas. We advertised and went to the marketplace to review our offerings with all providers of managed healthcare plan administrators and based on the proposals received, chose to make a change to BCBSTX which began effective January 1, 2025," Alief ISD commented. "There are a number of qualified providers in the market and, in this occurrence, we determined the best offered proposal based on the criteria used to determine value added was BCBSTX. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Houston ISD expanded its partnership with NextLevel Medical in September for free in-person urgent and primary care to employees. Samsung has officially announced the 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, and it will happen on January 22. Samsung made the announcement during CES 2025. While Samsung doesnt mention devices by name, its pretty obvious whats going to be announced. Every year Samsungs early Galaxy Unpacked event is reserved for announcing the new Galaxy S series devices. This year isnt going to be any different, and its when we should see the official announcements for the Galaxy S25 series. That being said, we cant confirm this, of course. However, this has always been Samsungs strategy, and it doesnt seem likely to change things now. Samsung does confirm that the Galaxy S series will make an appearance at this event. While theres no specific device model name attached to the companys statement, the Galaxy S25 is the logical assumption to make. Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 will showcase the evolution of Galaxy AI Samsungs Galaxy AI has been a focal point of the company since it launched alongside the Galaxy S24 series in 2024. Following the launch of those devices, Galaxy AI has made its way into several Samsung products. This includes things like the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6. This year, Samsung says it will reveal whats coming next with Galaxy AI. It also says it will reveal how the Galaxy S series will once again set the bar for mobile AI experiences. This is another hint that Samsung will be revealing the Galaxy S25 at Unpacked later this month. And it seems clear that Galaxy AI is once again going to play a big role in what features the company focuses on with its upcoming devices. Samsung also put out a small teaser video about the event which you can see below. In the teaser, it briefly shows the outlines of a few phones. It then transitions to a microphone icon, with a user asking when Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is. Theres nothing here to pick up on, but it is still a fun little teaser video. Samsung will livestream the event across the web As per usual Samsung will have a livestream of the event going. So you can watch everything be unpacked at home. If youre looking to see what new stuff Samsung has in store for this year, you can watch the stream in three different places. Samsungs Newsroom site, on the official Samsung website, and on Samsungs YouTube channels. Everything kicks off at 10AM PT on January 22. In this global economic landscape, companies from other countries regularly invest in companies in other countries. Tencent is a prime example of that. The company has major investments in the US, but things could get a bit difficult. This is because the US government has added Tencent to a list of companies they deem to be Chinese military companies. Tencent denies the allegations Tencent isnt alone in this situation. In addition to Tencent, the US Department of Defense has also added other Chinese companies to the list. This includes CATL, who at the moment is a major supplier of electric car batteries to Tesla. Unsurprisingly, both companies have denied claims that they are Chinese military companies. In a statement to TechCrunch, Tencent said the listing is clearly a mistake and that we are not a military company or supplier. The notice posted by the US Department of Defense does not specify why they think Tencent could be helping the Chinese military. Chinese military company What does it mean if a company is deemed a Chinese military company? For now, it isnt as severe as being placed on the US Entity List, where Huawei currently sits. This forbids US companies from doing business with companies placed on the list. It also prevents these listed companies from using tech that originates from US firms and patents. This is why Huawei had to ultimately ditch Android in favor of its own mobile operating system. It is also why Huawei has fallen behind considerably in the chipset race. Designing Tencent as a Chinese military company means that US government contractors cannot do business with it starting in 2026. It also warns US companies that their partners are involved in Chinese military-civil fusion efforts. This could also lead to pressure the US Treasury Department to sanction these companies. Implications It is unclear what will happen to Tencent moving forward. As mentioned previously, the listing only bans US government contractors from doing business with them. However, Tencent has become quite involved in the US market through its investments in several US companies. This includes companies like Reddit, Snap, and Epic Games. Tencent also acquired Riot Games back in 2011. Riot Games is behind the popular MOBA title League of Legends. It is still the most popular MOBA title with over 100 million active players. This listing could force Tencent to scale back on its investments, which in turn could have a negative impact on these US companies that rely on their funding. Alec Baldwin has praised Demi Moore for her Golden Globes win and bravery in taking on horror film The Substance. Ghost actress Moore, 62, gave an impassioned speech as she scooped her first gong at the awards on Sunday and reflected on what it is to feel you will never be enough. The Hollywood star, 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. Demi Moore poses in the press room with the award for best performance by a female actor in a motion picture musical or comedy for The Substance (Chris Pizzello/AP) In an Instagram video, Baldwin said: I just want to say, I couldnt be any happier for Demi Moore, I think thats great. I mean, theres a lot of people who are worthy. Do these award shows ever get it right as far as were concerned? I have not many, but a couple stories of times I was like throwing my beer can, or whatever, at the TV years ago, especially when one person didnt win and one person did win, one of those moments incensed me. But theyre never going to make everybody happy, obviously. He added: So without any denigration of anybody else who was up for this award, I am so glad for Demi. I mean, a woman who was a child of the movie business. Shes been in that business for so long, I knew her when we were both super young. I made a movie with her, The Juror, but Im so happy. He continued: Im so happy for her because, I think, that that movie, the bravery, the bravery that she put out to do that. I mean, a movie that you say, Im gonna take a big swing here, and maybe its not gonna work, but the only way you find that is to take that swing. He then congratulated Moore and said: I hope theres more to come. In December, an appeal on a courts decision to dismiss the involuntary manslaughter case against Baldwin, 66, over the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on set of movie Rust was dropped. In The Substance, directed by French film-maker Coralie Fargeat, Moore plays Hollywood star Elisabeth Sparkle, who considers a new treatment to look younger. For the film, Moore wore prosthetics and told Varietys Actors On Actors that she would have to sit anywhere from six to nine-and-a-half hours while they were being put on. Big winners at this years awards also included musical thriller Emilia Perez and drama The Brutalist, which won the award for best motion picture drama. US film star Adrien Brody, who played Laszlo Toth in the movie, won in the best male actor in a drama performance category. Following his win, in an Instagram post, Brody said: Thank you to The Golden Globes voters for this truly extraordinary honour. My family and I will never forget this magical moment. And to @thombrowne for making me look like a winner on this special night. Octavia Johnson is a general assignment reporter for the Houston Chronicle. Follow her on Bluesky (@octaviajnews.bsky.social), TikTok (@octaviaj_news) and Facebook (Octavia R. Johnson). Before joining the Chronicle, Octavia worked as a digital content producer at WATE-TV in Knoxville, Tenn., where she became a leader in producing fast-paced, audience-focused content. Octavia graduated from UNC Pembroke with a bachelor's degree in journalism before earning her master's degree in media and communications at Norfolk State University. The discovery of a body in Spain believed to be that of John George ends an extremely tortuous search process, a statement issued on behalf of his family said. The 37-year-old west Belfast man had been holidaying in Alicante and was last in touch with his family on December 14. The father of two was reported missing four days later after he failed to board his flight home to Northern Ireland. Solicitor firm KRW Law said Mr Georges father Billy contacted them on Tuesday evening with an update that Spanish police believed they had found his sons remains. We can confirm the father of Mr George contacted us today shortly after 5pm to confirm Spanish police told him they had recovered his sons remains, the statement said. Mr Billy George was told that his sons body was now in a morgue awaiting formal identification. The family are both distressed but also relieved at this latest news. It brings to an end an extremely tortuous search process for the body. Mr Georges family and friends had travelled to Spain to help search efforts and made public pleas for information. Parents Billy and Sharon, brother Darren, and sisters Courtney and Caitlin along with up to 50 friends and wider family from Northern Ireland were involved in the wide-scale search operation. The statement said a murder investigation had been launched and appealed for privacy for Mr Georges family. It said: The family want to thank all who have helped and supported them over the last number of days. They now respectfully ask for some privacy to allow them both time and space to engage on the next harrowing stages on what is now a formalised murder investigation. Police in Northern Ireland have been aiding their Spanish counterparts with their investigation and had issued appeals for information since Mr George was reported missing. For Dry January, Ali Dewji, 38 a former alcoholic reveals how he beat his addiction. Currently single, he divides his time between homes in London and Bali. Here Ali shares his journey from rock bottom to working as a sobriety coach... Ali Dewji, pictured left on Class A drugs at a rave in Croatia in 2015 and right, now happy and healthy on a cycling holiday. (Supplied) (Supplied) Walking into the pub on August 6th 2021, I ordered a pint with the intention of getting completely drunk. My girlfriend of 12 years had broken up with me, I was trapped in an unfulfilling job and I knew drink would numb the pain. But as I took the pint away, something happened that changed my life. I had what I can only describe as a vision. Everything went black. All I could see was a white forked road ahead. On the left, I saw pubs and drink. On the right, was a closed door. It sounds strange but I knew I couldnt face the left fork. I had no idea what lay behind the door but it had to be a better path. I took the pint back to the bar without taking a sip and walked out. It was the first step in my road to recovery. From binge-drinking to breakfast beers I dont remember exactly when I first started drinking but it was around the age of 14 when, like many teenagers, Id hang out with friends in the park knocking back alcopops or cider. At university in Sheffield in the early 2000s, Id binge-drink and take drugs like cocaine and ecstasy. It was hedonistic and fun, and I felt my character was enhanced when I was drinking. When I returned to London to a job in media sales Id spend many nights going out for after work drinks or networking evenings where alcohol and cocaine were the norm. A trip around the world to South East Asia, New Zealand and South America where alcohol was very cheap, meant I could get drunk on a budget. Several times I woke up on the beach, having no recollection of how I got there. Ali says he was 'so drunk and lost' in this photo, he doesn't remember it being taken, pictured in August 2021. (Supplied) (Supplied) When I returned to the UK and reality a year later, I felt lost. Id had such an endorphin-fuelled time that this was like post-holiday blues times a thousand. I set up a publishing company with my sister which specialised in e-books. I loved it at first but didnt feel fulfilled. And thats when my problems began. At first, it was simply a beer after work. Then Id grab a can for the way home. I even did Zoom calls with a cup of coffee in my hand which actually had beer or wine in it. But before I knew it, hair of the dog became a thing. Id head to the local pub before going to work. The pub often had around a dozen others mostly men in there, all drinking at 9am. Id reassure myself that I wasnt alone. And besides, it was only beer. Nothing strong like wine or vodka. But deep down, I knew I had a problem. Work-wise, things were fine because I owned the company. I even did Zoom calls with a cup of coffee in my hand which actually had beer or wine in it. But my health was poor. The weight was piling on and at my heaviest I was nearing 17st (107kg) which was too much for my 5ft 10ins frame. Ali lost 4.5 stone (30kg) over a year through giving up drinking and focussing on exercise, pictured before and after. (Supplied) (Supplied) The push I needed My relationship was deteriorating. Id been with my girlfriend since my early twenties wed met at a drink-fuelled festival and for many years, things were great. But drink made me depressed and unmotivated. Id lie about going to the shops when in fact, I was in a pub. She was finding empty cans and bottles hidden around the house. By August 2021, she did what she had threatened to do for a while and left me. She couldnt bear to see me so miserable. It was heartbreaking for both of us. Splitting up was heartbreaking for both of us. Ive since thanked her for being so selfless because it was the break-up that made me turn my life around. It was two days later that I experienced the vision with the fork in the road. I have never touched a drop of alcohol since. My version of recovery In the immediate first few days, I threw myself into fitness and became obsessed with going to the gym. Within a year, Id lost over four and a half stone (30kg). But it was being honest and open with friends that really helped me. As I didnt want to have to explain to everyone individually, I put out a post on my Facebook and Instagram explaining that I was an alcoholic but was committed to doing something about it. I asked people not to offer me drinks. I put out a post on my Facebook and Instagram explaining that I was an alcoholic but was committed to doing something about it. The amount of likes and comments and private messages I received was overwhelming. I get emotional about it even now. But lots of people admitted to me that they had gone through the same thing. I wanted to help others like me particularly men solve their drinking problem. I feel that men need to see other men admitting to problems but going on to have successful lives. I didnt want quitting drinking to define me and be my only success, which is why other alcohol support groups didnt really work for me. Ali, pictured in 2023, reflecting on his life while away in Bali. (Supplied) (Supplied) Helping others heal I went all over the world exploring ways to help heal I tried everything from a 10-day silent retreat in Indonesia to spending time with a shaman in Peru. I totted up that Ive spent over 100,000 on various therapies because I want to be able to impart as much knowledge as possible to my clients. Ali, pictured in Bali in 2023, celebrating two years of being sober. (Supplied) (Supplied) Today, I have a 90-day programme that helps men get sober. So much around masculinity is how much we can hold our alcohol and we need to re-programme that. Id tell any man with a drink problem not to focus on the symptoms and look at short-term fixes like Dry January, but to dig a little deeper to discover the root cause. No one really has a drinking problem, drink is just the solution. No one really has a drinking problem, drink is just the solution. You need to look at the problem beneath the drinking and examine what you are escaping from is it your job, your relationship, youre simply feeling unfulfilled? Today, I feel like my life has so much more purpose because the secret is to replace drinking with a life you no longer want to escape from. If you think you need help with your alcohol intake, you can get in touch with the free national alcohol helpline Drinkline at 0300 123 1110, or contact Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Read more about dry January and alcoholism: Former first minister Humza Yousaf has responded to Elon Musk to say a Scots-Pakistani MP helped bring to justice the racially-motivated killers of a 15-year-old boy, more than 20 years ago. Glasgow schoolboy Kriss Donald was abducted and killed by an Asian gang led by Imran Shahid on March 15 2004. Kriss was stabbed 13 times and set on fire while he was still alive on a quiet walkway behind Celtic FCs training ground in the east end of the city. The assailants had taken him on a 200-mile journey to Dundee and back while the gang members attempted to find a house to take him to. Mr Musk responded to a post on X to say he had never heard of the murder or subsequent trial and Mr Yousaf responded to tell him it was then-Glasgow Central MP Mohammed Sarwar, a Scots-Pakistani, who was integral in seeing the perpetrators were brought to justice. First time Ive heard of this https://t.co/LTtXCoIHJ1 Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 The incident unfolded following an assault on Shahid at a nightclub the previous evening although Kriss was not involved in the attack. Trial judge Lord Uist said Kriss had been targeted at random because he was white, describing the murder as an abomination which had rightly shocked and appalled the public. A 20-year-old man who was not named for legal reasons was jailed for murder in December 2004 while Zahid Mohammed, 20, was sentenced to five years for assaulting and abducting Kriss. The three remaining suspects ringleader Imran Shahid, his brother Zeeshan Shahid and Mohammed Faisal Mushtaq had fled to Pakistan after the killing. Let me also be the first to tell you that it was a Scottish-Pakistani MP at the time, Mohammad Sarwar, who travelled to Pakistan to ensure Kriss Donald's evil killers were extradited back to Scotland to face the full force of the law.https://t.co/46BgTXgxCv https://t.co/ZmmjXHzgmc Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) January 7, 2025 Mr Sarwar played a key role in ensuring the three suspects were extradited back to Scotland to face punishment. Imran Shahid, his brother Zeeshan Shahid and Mushtaq were found guilty of murder and jailed for life in November 2006. The case marked the first conviction for a racially-motivated murder in Scotland. On X, formerly Twitter, Elon Musk shared a post about the incident from another X user, with the tech mogul stating: First time Ive heard of this. Mr Yousaf reposted Mr Musks comment, adding: Let me also be the first to tell you that it was a Scottish-Pakistani MP at the time, Mohammad Sarwar, who travelled to Pakistan to ensure Kriss Donalds evil killers were extradited back to Scotland to face the full force of the law. A man who suffered non-life-threatening injuries in a shooting in Northern Ireland was an off-duty police officer, the PSNI has said. Police remain at the scene of the shooting in the Beverley Road area of Newtownabbey at around 9.30pm on Monday. The PSNI said it does not believe the incident is related to terrorism. One man has been arrested. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: Police remain at the scene of a shooting incident in the Beverley Road area of Newtownabbey, which was reported at around 9.30pm last night, Monday 6 January. I can confirm that the injured man was an off-duty police officer who was taken to hospital and is currently receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. My thoughts are with him, his family and we will offer every support to them while he recovers. While our investigation is at an early stage, we do not believe this is a terrorism-related incident. The officer added: A 29-year-old man was arrested at the scene and he remains in police custody at this time. We will continue to liaise with other key stakeholders including the Police Federation. As our investigation progresses I would appeal to anyone with any information, who was in the area around the time of the shooting, or with doorbell or dashcam footage, to contact police on 101 and quote reference 1699 06/01/25. The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been informed of the incident. McDonalds is facing fresh claims of widespread harassment across its UK branches as hundreds of young current and former workers join a legal action against the company. More than 700 people who were aged 19 or younger when working at McDonalds have instructed law firm Leigh Day to take legal action on their behalf. The claims come as UK chief executive Alistair Macrow prepares to face questions from MPs later on Tuesday on employment rights. More than 450 McDonalds restaurants are implicated in the claims so far, which describe discrimination, homophobia, racism, ableism and harassment. One 19-year-old employee called Matt told a BBC investigation that his colleagues were scared of going into work and that managers would touch up some staff. Another former worker, who was identified as Claire, said a shift manager asked her for sex in exchange for extra shifts. She was 17 at the time and he was in his 30s, the former worker said. Another man, 19, who is currently working at a branch of McDonalds, said: Ive had to deal with homophobic comments from managers and crew members I feel as though I cant speak to any managers about it. My manager said if I cant deal with it, I should just leave the job. Things said to me shouldnt be said to anyone, Ive been called names like faggot. These comments make me feel really uncomfortable I hate working there. Another worker called Matt, who left his job at a McDonalds branch in the Midlands last year, told the BBC he was bullied for having a learning disability and an eye condition. He said he noticed managers and staff being racist to other workers, and bosses trying to touch other staff up. Leigh Day, the law firm, said it had received claims of a young worker who was repeatedly pestered for sex, and another who was asked by their manager how many people they had slept with. One claim detailed a manager who would touch young staff inappropriately on their shifts, while another said a manager made racist comments about whether staff would steal from the company because of where they were from. A young worker also said they had heard their disability described as being ridiculous. McDonalds is one of Britains largest employers, with more than 170,000 people working in 1,450 restaurants. The fast food giant says the average age of its employees is 20. The claims come after a separate BBC report in 2023, in which workers spoke of sexual assault, harassment, racism and bullying in the workplace. That prompted McDonalds to bring in consultants from Price Waterhouse Cooper (PwC) to audit its restaurants. Leigh Day lawyers believe junior crew members and staff at McDonalds could be entitled to bring claims, regardless of whether they have directly experienced harassment. It said they could have been exposed to a culture of inappropriate conduct, and urged any current staff aged under 20 to join the legal action. Paul Nowak, general secretary at the Trades Union Congress, said Mr Macrow has serious questions to answer. This investigation has exposed how sexual harassment and insecure work can go hand in hand. McDonalds outlets work using a franchise model, meaning local managers are in charge of recruiting staff. About 89% of British workers at McDonalds are on zero-hours contracts. Mr Nowak added that the contracts create a huge imbalance of power in the workplace that leaves workers vulnerable to predatory bosses. Mr Macrow will appear in front of the Business Committee of MPs in a session on employment rights on Tuesday afternoon. A McDonalds spokesperson said the chain had done extensive work to make its workplaces safer. Any incident of misconduct and harassment is unacceptable and subject to rapid and thorough investigation and action, they said. They added that the company had set up a dedicated team to tackle the problem, which has already rolled out company-wide programmes to improve safeguarding, drive awareness and enhance training. We are confident that we are taking significant and important steps to tackle the unacceptable behaviours facing every organisation. A recent anonymous employee survey showed that 92% of its workers are now comfortable speaking up, they said. The company said it offers its employees the choice of zero-hours or guaranteed hours contracts. A minister has defended Rachel Reeves visit to China in the wake of arrest warrants being issued for pro-democracy activists living in the UK. Foreign Office minister Catherine West said Britain must sometimes be involved with countries whose values may not completely align with ours, and that British businesses in Hong Kong say it is so lovely when they are visited by MPs. Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith who is one of a number of MPs sanctioned by China said the UK will not be taken seriously until sanctions are imposed. The Chancellor is due to visit China this week for talks with vice premier He Lifeng, following a meeting between Sir Keir Starmer and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping of China (Stefan Rousseau/PA) But MPs questioned the Government on the visit going ahead in the wake of arrest warrants being issued by the Hong Kong police for pro-democracy activists. On Christmas Eve, Hong Kong police offered rewards for information leading to the arrests of six campaigners, four of whom are currently living in the UK. In an urgent question in the Commons, shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel said the warrants show this Governments supposed reset with China is just one way. She said: Before meeting President Xi, the Prime Minister had said he wanted a relationship that is consistent, durable and respectful, and stated that the pair agree that there be no more surprises. Dame Priti added: Can the minister confirm with a simple yes or no, whether the Chancellor is going to be raising these bounties at the highest level when she jets off to China next week to beg for a quick investment for the bailout of her failing economic strategy? She cannot ignore the human rights issues on her visit. Ms West replied: Were in a position where our economy is quite fragile, and whilst we have very clear national security concerns, and todays a really good example of those, we do have to balance those with being an outwardly facing and globally trading nation, where we need to sometimes be involved with other countries where their values may not completely align with ours. And so I make no apologies for trying to support British business abroad, including in Hong Kong, where British businesses have said it is so lovely to see MPs visit us. The UK must sometimes be involved with countries whose values may not completely align with ours, Catherine West has said (Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament) Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs spokesperson Calum Miller also urged the Government to reconsider the Chancellors trip to Beijing, in light of the warrants and the continued detention of Jimmy Lai. Pro-democracy supporter Mr Lai was jailed in late 2020 in Hong Kong, and is currently being held in solitary confinement after being accused of violating the territorys new national security law. Ms West said she has personally promised Mr Lais son Sebastian that she would raise the case of his father, adding: Unfortunately, because of our rather exposed position post-Brexit, we do have to be outwardly looking in our economy if we want our residents and our constituents to get away from food banks. Sir Iain said the arrest warrants are the last act of a Chinese Communist Party who dont care what countries like the UK say. He said: We have the freezing of all the savings of the pensions of those who fled Hong Kong here in the UK, done by the way by HSBC which was outrageous, the Confucius Institutes continue spying on Chinese students in universities, there are illegal Chinese police stations bullying the families back in China of those who have fled for human rights issues, brutal assault in Manchester by the consul-general himself and by others. Sir Iain Duncan Smith the UK will not be taken seriously until sanctions are imposed (Jordan Pettitt/PA). Sir Iain added that no British government has so far sanctioned a single person for any of the abuses that take place and that until we do that, we will not be taken seriously. Ms West responded by inviting the sanctioned MP to visit the Foreign Office, adding hes well aware that theres many sanctions against Chinese entities. A mother who has spent 100 days on hunger strike has said she believes the UK Government will only act decisively to help free her jailed son when she is admitted hospital. British-Egyptian pro-democracy activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah, 43, has been detained in Egypt since September 29 2019 and in December 2021 was sentenced to five years in prison after being accused of spreading false news. His mother, Laila Soueif, 68, has vowed not to eat until he is freed and is surviving on nothing but black coffee, herbal tea and three packets of rehydration salts a day, according to the Free Alaa campaign. Mr Abd El-Fattah has spent most of the past decade in prison because of his criticism of Egypts rulers and is unable to see his young son who lives in Brighton. Ms Soueif will visit him in prison on Wednesday before returning to London later in the week and aims to attend Foreign Office questions in the Commons next week. Ms Soueif said: I honestly cant believe that my body has lasted 100 days on hunger strike. I had no idea it was possible. But unfortunately the Government seems to be waiting for me to be hospitalised before they act decisively to secure my sons freedom. We have been lucky that my body has been resilient but we will soon run out of time. I have now lost a lot of weight and am more and more tired every day. Campaigners have urged Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to do more to help free Mr Abd El-Fattah. Human rights experts, including Amnesty International secretary general Agnes Callamard, last month wrote to Sir Keir insisting Egyptian president Abdel Fattah El-Sisi can resolve this case with the stroke of a pen and they are convinced the Prime Ministers direct intervention is needed. Sir Keir raised Mr Abd El-Fattahs plight with Mr Sisi in August but he did not raise the case at the recent G20 summit attended by the pair, according to the Foreign Office. The two leaders reportedly met on the sidelines of the summit in Brazil. The Government last month said it remains our priority to secure Mr Abd El-Fattahs release, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy raising the case on December 20. Melania Trump's life story Amazon has paid $40 million for a documentary of Melania Trumps life story in Jeff Bezoss latest attempt to ingratiate himself with the president-elect. The tech giant won a bidding war for the unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the former and future first ladys life, which will be released in cinemas and on Prime Video in the second half of the year. Amazon will also stream two or three episodes of a series about Mrs Trump, who as executive producer on both projects is likely to receive a significant chunk of the agreed fee, sources told Puck News. While details about the upcoming Melania film are vague, shooting began last month, suggesting that it will cover Mr Trumps inauguration and the couples return to the White House. Amazon is understood to have bought the licence to the film not the ownership following a bidding war involving Disney and Paramount, according to Puck News. Melania looks on as the president-elect speaks to reporters before the 2024 New Years Eve party at Mar-a-Lago - Evan Vucci/AP Photo Mrs Trump watches a rally at Madison Square Garden with Elon Musk and his family in the final stages of her husbands 2024 presidential campaign - Alex Brandon/AP Photo The upcoming documentary will be directed by Brett Ratner, director of X-Men: The Last Stand and the Rush Hour films, who was cancelled in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Mr Ratner has not worked on a major Hollywood film since six women accused him of sexual harassment and misconduct in 2017. He denied all the allegations and was never charged. While he has produced various projects, his last directing credit on IMDB is from 2015. In 2011, he resigned as co-producer of the Oscars broadcast after he used an anti-gay slur at a public event. Mr Trump and Mr Ratner both attended the wedding of the son of businessman Al Malnik at the president-elects Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida last year. We are excited to share this truly unique story with our millions of customers around the world, an Amazon spokesman said in a statement about the deal. Melania at the age of 17 in what is believed to have been her first modelling shoot in Slovenia - Stane Jerko/Reuters The exorbitant deal is the latest in a string of overtures Mr Bezos has made to Mr Trump since the Republicans election victory over Kamala Harris in November. In October, the Washington Post broke decades of precedent by not endorsing a political candidate in the presidential election. The paper, which is owned by Mr Bezos, withdrew a planned editorial in support of Ms Harris. Last month, Mr Bezos and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez flew to Mar-a-Lago, where they had dinner with the president-elect and Elon Musk. Amazon is one of several tech firms to have donated to Mr Trumps inauguration. Donald Trump with Melania, then his girlfriend, at a New Years Eve party at his Mar-a-Lago estate in 2004 - Davidoff Studios/Getty Images The Trumps introduce their son Barron to the world on the Oprah Winfrey show in 2006 - NCI Melania Trump unveiling the new Cadillac Escalade in New York in 2007 - Jamie McCarthy/WireImage Mr Bezos has said he is optimistic about Mr Trumps second term and the potential for regulations and red tape to be slashed. Speaking at The New York Times DealBook Summit in December, he said Mr Trump seems to have a lot of energy around reducing regulation. If I can help do that, Im going to help him. He added: We do have too many regulations in this country. Melania and Donald Trump with Elizabeth II on a state visit to the UK in 2019 - Alastair Grant/WPA Pool/Getty Images Melania Trumps jacket with a slogan saying I dont really care, do you caused controversy on a 2018 visit to facilities housing children taken from their parents at the US/Mexico border - Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images The apparent thawing of the relationship between Mr Bezos and Mr Trump comes after the latter took issue with the Washington Posts political coverage during his first administration. Last week, Washington Post political cartoonist Ann Telnaes quit the newspaper after her sketch depicting Mr Bezos and other business giants grovelling before Mr Trump was not published. The cartoonist said it was the first time she had a cartoon killed because of who or what I chose to aim my pen at, although David Shipley, the editorial page editor, maintained it had been cancelled over fears of repetition rather than a malign force. Mrs Trump reading to children at the White House in 2017 - Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Mrs Trump visiting an orphanage in Nairobi on a 2018 visit to promote her childrens welfare programme - Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images Mrs Trumps upcoming documentary, which is being produced by Fernando Sulichi, an Argentinian film-maker, comes months after the publication of her best-selling memoir, Melania. The book and surrounding interviews marked a significant shift in her tendency to remain shielded from the public eye when possible. The book covered her upbringing in Slovenia, moving to New York to pursue her modelling career, meeting Mr Trump and her life during his first administration. In the memoir, she appeared to try to carve out her own identity separate from her husband, including revealing that she is pro-choice, and detailing how at times she influenced Mr Trumps controversial policies. Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary - BBC Breakfast GB News Kemi Badenoch has backed Robert Jenrick after he suggested the Tories could seek to limit immigration to the UK from what he described as alien cultures. The shadow justice secretary said this morning that we have seen millions of people enter the UK in recent years and some of them have backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women. He stood by his claim that the grooming gangs scandal started with the onset of mass migration. The Liberal Democrats called for Mrs Badenoch to sack Mr Jenrick from his frontbench role over what they described as divisive comments. But a spokesman for the leader of the Conservative Party said: Robert Jenrick did an excellent job this morning explaining the pressing need for a national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. The Liberal Democrats should spend less time worrying about tweets, and instead explain to the British people why they oppose an inquiry that would end the culture of cover ups in our institutions and finally get justice for the victims. Mrs Badenoch wrote in a piece for The Telegraph in September last year that we need to demand that those who come here love this country and will maintain and uphold its traditions, not change them. She said: Culture is more than cuisine or clothes. Its also customs which may be at odds with British values. We cannot be naive and assume immigrants will automatically abandon ancestral ethnic hostilities at the border, or that all cultures are equally valid. They are not. Asked about Mr Jenricks comments, the Prime Ministers spokesman suggested that they were a distraction from the core issue of protecting children from sexual abuse. Lord Tariq Ahmad, a Conservative peer, urged the shadow justice secretary to reflect on some of his comments. He told the BBC Radio 4 World at One programme: Is he putting victims of these abhorrent crimes at the heart of the solutions that do exist or is he trying to play to a particular audience to incite particular thinking and particular views against a particular community? Meanwhile, the Tories have confirmed that they will put forward an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill tomorrow urging for a national inquiry into grooming gangs. You can join the conversation in the comments section. 04:23 PM GMT Todays liveblog is now closed Thank you for following todays liveblog. Jack Maidment will be back tomorrow morning to bring you the latest 04:16 PM GMT No10: Jenrick comments on alien cultures are a distraction The Prime Ministers spokesman has appeared to call Robert Jenricks comments about the link between immigration and the grooming gangs scandal a distraction. The spokesman for Sir Keir Starmer refused to be drawn directly on comments by the shadow justice secretary, who wrote on X that hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women had come to Britain. But he told journalists: A lot of this is a distraction from the core issue here, which is delivering the change needed across institutions in society to protect children from the sickening abuse. Thats what victims want us to focus on. Asked whether the Prime Minister agreed that grooming gangs were linked to immigration, the spokesman said: I think the Prime Minister has been quite clear that he wants to get on with delivering change for victims of child sexual abuse. Thats what victims deserve of their Government. As he said yesterday, those spreading lies and misinformation arent doing so in interest of victims. 03:06 PM GMT Braverman urges Starmer to step up on grooming gangs scandal Suella Braverman urged Sir Keir Starmer to take on the grooming gangs scandal with the same vigour he showed when dealing with last summers riots. The Tory former home secretary said in a Twitter post that political correctness within policing (and other public services) facilitated this national scandal and to get justice, we need to focus on what the police is doing now. She said: The same vigour that the Prime Minister showed towards the summer riots is vital right now. Will he step up to deliver justice for these women and girls? 02:25 PM GMT Tories confirm strategy for forcing vote on national inquiry The Tories have now confirmed that they intend to table a reasoned amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill tomorrow in their attempt to force a national inquiry into grooming gangs. The post below at 13.18 explains what that means and why the Government will vote against it. A Conservative Party spokesperson said: Labour are looking for any excuse to get out of holding a much-needed national inquiry into child rape grooming gangs. Labours attempts to hide behind parliamentary procedure and take the debate away from victims will not save them from their moral cowardice, and their failure to give victims the answers they deserve. Labour MPs now have the chance to do the right thing, and vote for justice. 01:50 PM GMT Tory peer urges Jenrick to reflect on alien cultures comment A Tory peer said Robert Jenrick should reflect on some of the comments he has made amid the grooming gangs scandal. Lord Tariq Ahmad was asked during an interview on the BBC Radio 4 World at One programme for his response to Mr Jenrick tweeting that hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women had come to the UK in recent years. He said: I think Roberts got to reflect on what hes doing. What is his motivation for doing this? Is he putting victims of these abhorrent crimes at the heart of the solutions that do exist or is he trying to play to a particular audience to incite particular thinking and particular views against a particular community? Lord Ahmad said that divisive comments is not how we lead our country. Asked what he believed could be the effect of Mr Jenricks comments, he said: Well, I think it incites hatred. If someone is using divisive comments against any community it is divisive. 01:18 PM GMT How are the Tories going to force a vote on holding a national inquiry? The Tories are yet to confirm exactly what kind of amendment they are going to use in an attempt to force a vote on triggering a national inquiry into grooming gangs. But the Government is under the impression that the Opposition will bring forward what is known in Parliament as a reasoned amendment. Kemi Badenoch has said she will put forward an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill tomorrow when it is due to be debated in the House of Commons for its second reading. Second reading is the first big stage a Bill has to clear on its passage to becoming law and it is when MPs vote on the broad principle of proposed legislation. Amendments to add bits or delete bits from the text of a Bill are not considered at second reading, that happens at later stages of scrutiny. But a vote on a reasoned amendment can happen at second reading. Reasoned amendments essentially set out reasons for rejecting a Bill and if they pass they stop the legislation in question from making any progress. Downing Street explained at lunchtime why the Government would vote against such an amendment - in simple terms because it would kill off the wider Bill. The PMs spokesman said: The mechanism for this amendment would involve the Opposition voting against the entire [Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill]. That means a vote against improved safeguarding measures for vulnerable children, that means a vote against putting more cash in working parents pockets by capping school uniform costs The Tories could opt to table a normal amendment seeking to change the Bill but that would not be considered or voted on until a later date. Hopefully we will get some clarity this afternoon. 12:55 PM GMT Badenoch backs Jenrick after Lib Dems called for him to be sacked Kemi Badenoch has hit back at the Liberal Democrats after the party urged her to sack Robert Jenrick (see the post below at 11.22). A spokesman for the leader of the Conservative Party said: Robert Jenrick did an excellent job this morning explaining the pressing need for a national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. The Liberal Democrats should spend less time worrying about tweets, and instead explain to the British people why they oppose an inquiry that would end the culture of cover ups in our institutions and finally get justice for the victims. 12:38 PM GMT Starmer not concerned about Musks tweets, says No 10 Sir Keir Starmer is not concerned about Elon Musks repeated criticism of him online over the grooming gangs scandal, Downing Street said. Asked the question at lunchtime, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: No and as I say the Prime Minister is focused on the issues here 12:20 PM GMT No 10: Time has passed for grooming gangs inquiry Downing Street has defended its opposition to holding a national inquiry into grooming gangs. No 10 said Sir Keir Starmer agreed with Professor Alexis Jay, who led the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) that reported in 2022, that the time has passed for more inquiries (see the post below at 08.49). The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The Alexis Jay report was a full national inquiry I think that as Professor Jay said this morning the time has passed for more inquiries and consultations especially for victims and survivors who clearly want action. That is why the Government is focused on taking action. 11:55 AM GMT Tories challenge Starmer to back national inquiry into grooming gangs scandal On Wednesday we're tabling a vote on a full national inquiry into the rape gangs grooming scandal. Thousands of girls were abused. The system failed them. We need answers. Keir Starmer can choose either to back it, or block it. Conservatives (@Conservatives) January 7, 2025 11:22 AM GMT Lib Dems: Badenoch should sack Jenrick over alien culture remarks The Liberal Democrats said Kemi Badenoch should sack Robert Jenrick over his divisive comments about immigration. The shadow justice secretary said he stood by a tweet he posted on Jan 4 which said the grooming gangs scandal started with the onset of mass migration and the UK had imported hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women. Daisy Cooper, the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: Robert Jenricks attempt to exploit this appalling scandal for his own political gain is completely shameless. He didnt lift a finger to help the victims when a minister, now hes jumping on the bandwagon and acting like a pound shop Farage. Kemi Badenoch should sack him as shadow justice secretary and condemn his divisive comments, instead of letting him run a leadership campaign under her nose. 11:10 AM GMT Musk: My working class grandmother might have been abducted in present day Britain Elon Musk said his British grandmother might have been abducted in present day Britain as he resumed his attacks on the Government over the grooming gangs scandal. The tech billionaire tweeted: My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2. To earn money for food, she cleaned Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 10:54 AM GMT Musk labels Davey a snivelling cretin Elon Musk has hit back at Sir Ed Davey after the leader of the Liberal Democrats accused the tech billionaire of interfering with our countrys democracy. Sir Ed had tweeted: 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. Mr Musk described Sir Ed as a snivelling cretin as he responded: What exactly do I fail to understand about your failure to stop the mass rape of little girls in Britain, you snivelling cretin? 10:36 AM GMT Reform will fight for swift and brutal justice over grooming gangs scandal Reform will do everything in our power to fight for swift and brutal justice over the grooming gangs scandal, one of the partys MPs said, after Nigel Farage announced he would launch an unofficial inquiry if the Government refuses to do so. Mr Farage made the announcement this morning (see the post below at 09.47) and said he believed he would be able to raise the money needed to make such an inquiry happen. Rupert Lowe tweeted: Reform has committed to holding a full inquiry into the rape gang scandal if the Labour Government fails to do so. We will do everything in our power to fight for swift and brutal justice for those responsible. Rupert Lowe MP (@RupertLowe10) January 7, 2025 10:15 AM GMT Tories accuse Starmer of total moral cowardice The Tories accused Sir Keir Starmer of total moral cowardice after a minister suggested the Government will not back the oppositions plan to hold a national inquiry into grooming gangs. Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, announced yesterday that she intended to table an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing Bill to require a statutory inquiry to take place. But Alex Davies-Jones, a justice minister, told Sky News this morning: I wont vote for it because weve already had a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation and abuse. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said: The Labour Party announcing they will whip their MPs to vote against a national inquiry into this scandal is total moral cowardice from Keir Starmer and his Labour Party. The victims of these heinous child rape gangs deserve honesty, and they deserve the truth. Mr Philp claimed that Labours decision risks perpetuating the cover-up of the rape gangs. 09:47 AM GMT Farage: Reform will hold grooming gangs inquiry if Government refuses Nigel Farage said his party would be prepared to set up an unofficial inquiry into grooming gangs if the Government does not act within a few weeks. The Reform leader told LBC: I honestly believe that through the police, through social services, through the last days of the Labour Government, through the entirety of the last Conservative government, there has been a concerted attempt to play this down for fear of what it might do, for fear of being called racist. The irony is that the attacks themselves were racist. This was anti-white female racism, of that, I have no doubt. He added: If the Government will not hold a full public inquiry... I will say this to you now: If they wont do it, we at Reform will do it. Mr Farage said he would appoint independent ex-judges and experts to conduct the investigation and while it would not have the power to compel people to give evidence he believed the risk of a backlash would prompt the relevant people to engage. I think this would garner such massive public support that anybody that is asked to appear that didnt appear would look terrible, he said. Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, answers questions during a phone-in on LBC this morning - Stefan Rousseau/PA 09:40 AM GMT Jenrick: We have to be very careful about who is coming into this country Robert Jenrick suggested the Tories could seek to limit immigration to the UK from what he has described as alien cultures (see the post below at 08.03). The shadow justice secretary said this morning that some people who have come to the UK have backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women. Asked if he was saying that the nations immigration policy should be changed to stop people with such attitudes from coming to the UK, Mr Jenrick told the BBC: I think that we have to be very careful about who is coming into this country, the scale and pace of that immigration so that we can have a much more successful integration policy than we have today. He added: I have always said, and it is a point made by Kemi Badenoch, the leader of my party, that not all cultures are equal. We should be very careful about who is coming into this country and the scale of immigration. 09:34 AM GMT Still not enough determination to get to the bottom of grooming scandals, says whistleblower There is still not a strong enough determination to get to the bottom of grooming scandals, a whistleblower has said. Maggie Oliver, a former detective who resigned from Greater Manchester Police in 2012, believes victims and survivors would have to be at the centre of any inquiry. She told Times Radio: The question has to be, who would lead it? What would it achieve? Victims and survivors have to be at the centre of this. When I listened to the protestations of the Prime Minister yesterday, accusing all of us who challenge what is going on and has been going on as far right extremists Im afraid that I dont trust the willingness or the determination still to get to the bottom (of it), we all know whats happened. 08:49 AM GMT The time has passed for new grooming inquiry, says abuse review chairman The time has passed for new inquiries into abuse by grooming gangs, the former chairman of a national inquiry into child abuse has claimed. Professor Alexis Jay, who led the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) that reported in 2022, argued a fresh Government-backed investigation would be counterproductive. She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I think that the time has passed for more inquiries. Weve had enough of inquiries, consultations and discussions and especially for those victims and survivors whove had the courage to come forward and there are many of them across the piece in child sexual abuse, not simply in child exploitation. And they clearly want action and we have set out what action is required and people should just get on with it, locally and nationally. On being asked whether this would hinder the work of introducing her recommendations, she said: It would certainly cause delays. 08:36 AM GMT Former inquiry chairman very unhappy about politicisation of grooming gangs A former chairman of a national inquiry into child abuse said she was very unhappy about the politicisation of the grooming gangs row. Professor Alexis Jay was asked by BBC Radio 4s Today programme whether those calling for a fresh national inquiry were seeking to gain political capital out of the issue. She replied: I would not attribute it to everyone but I have certainly been very unhappy about the politicisation of child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse that many people, sometimes in a sometimes very uninformed way, have waded into the argument. Prof Jay refused to be drawn on specific claims made by Elon Musk but added that the controversy prompted by his recent remarks does risk distracting from the issues. Ive heard very little in the public discourse thats taken place in the last few days if you could dignify it with that description that has mentioned children and the appalling and lifelong effects that child sexual abuse can have on people, she said. 08:27 AM GMT Grooming row has forced Labour into action, suggests former inquiry chairman The grooming gangs row has forced the Government into action, a former chairman of a national child abuse inquiry has suggested. Professor Alexis Jay led the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), which reported in 2022 and warned of endemic abuse across society. Asked whether Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, had announced a crackdown yesterday on child groomers because of the publicity around the issue, Professor Jay told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: That is an interesting point. And, of course, I am pleased that the subject matter and the inquiry recommendations are finally getting the attention they deserve. But this is definitely not the way I would have chosen for it to happen. But it has had the effect of moving on the agenda. Pressed on whether the upcoming changes would not have happened otherwise, she said she cant say that but that ministers may well have been given some impetus to move forward. And when asked whether she believed action had been taken quicker than it otherwise might have [been], Prof Jay said: Yes, thats correct. 08:20 AM GMT Starmer out of touch with mood of the country on grooming gangs scandal, claims whistleblower Sir Keir Starmer, as a former director of public prosecutions, is out of touch with how the country feels about the way grooming gangs have been dealt with, according to whistleblower Maggie Oliver. Ms Oliver, a former detective who resigned from Greater Manchester Police in 2012, told LBC: He was the director of public prosecutions. He is front and centre for me, the buck stops at the top. Ms Oliver said of Sir Keir: The comments he made yesterday really made me feel that he is out of touch with the mood of the country. Yet again, people now know whats happened you know those years ago, nobody did. 08:14 AM GMT Starmer will not accept inquiry recommendation to have Cabinet minister for children The Government will not create a specific Cabinet minister responsible for children, as recommended by Professor Alexis Jay. It was one of the 20 recommendations made in the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse report. But Alex Davies-Jones, a justice minister, told Times Radio: We already have a Cabinet member responsible for children, Bridget Phillipson [the Education Secretary]. She added that preventing child sexual exploitation was also the responsibility of a wider group of ministers, including herself and safeguarding minister Jess Phillips. Ms Davies-Jones said: This is something that is all of our responsibility across Government to deliver. 08:10 AM GMT Minister unable to say when Jay report recommendations will be implemented The violence against women and girls minister was unable to provide a timeline for implementing the recommendations of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) but insisted the Government was working quickly. The inquiry, led by Professor Alexis Jay, made 20 recommendations when it reported in Oct 2022. They included the introduction of a Cabinet-level minister for children, mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse in certain circumstances and a national guarantee of specialist therapeutic support for child victims. Asked when the recommendations would be acted on, Alex Davies-Jones told Times Radio: I cant give you a timeline but what I can tell you is we are working very, very quickly. A lot of these recommendations can be implemented quickly. As you heard from the Home Secretary yesterday, weve already begun that work and some of those new offences that have been announced will be in our Crime and Policing Bill brought in later this year. She said the Government would provide more information soon and added: I want to do this as quickly as possible. Its very complicated, this is not a quick fix overnight. 08:03 AM GMT Jenrick: I will not sanitise my language on grooming gangs scandal Robert Jenrick said he stood by his claim that the grooming gangs scandal started with the onset of mass migration. The shadow justice secretary tweeted on Jan 4: Importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women, brought us here. Asked if he stood by the comments, he told GB News this morning: Yes, absolutely. We have seen millions of people enter the UK in recent years and some of them have backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women. We are talking here about thousands, perhaps tens of thousands, of vulnerable young girls being tortured and raped. I will not disguise or sanitise my language simply to ensure that some people are not offended. Here is Mr Jenricks original tweet: To sustain order in multicultural Britain, the state considered it necessary to apply the law selectively. For decades the most appalling crimes from predominantly British-Pakistani men were legalised and actively covered up to prevent disorder. The rule of law was abandoned to Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) January 4, 2025 07:54 AM GMT Give grooming gangs whole life sentences, says shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick said grooming gangs should be given whole life sentences in prison. Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, announced yesterday that Labour will introduce tougher sentences, with grooming to be treated as a statutory aggravating factor when judges sentence offenders for specified child sex offences. But Mr Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, said the Government should go further. He told GB News: I have long advocated whole life sentences for these grooming gang perpetrators and I have said that if they are foreign national offenders get them out of our country, deport them, no ifs, no buts, so they never set foot on the soil of our country again. Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, speaks to the media in Westminster on Tuesday morning - Tayfun Salci 07:46 AM GMT Justice minister: Labour wont back Tory plan for grooming inquiry A justice minister said Labour will not vote for a Tory plan to trigger a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, announced yesterday that she intended to table an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing Bill to require a statutory inquiry to take place. But Alex Davies-Jones told Sky News this morning: I wont vote for it because weve already had a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation and abuse. The Professor Alexis Jay inquiry conducted an extensive investigation. Over 7,000 brave victims and survivors gave their testimony to that, and it is for them that we need to deliver justice. And we need to get on with the job of delivering for them, working at pace to deliver those recommendations that the previous government failed to do. Thats what they failed to do. We need action, less words. As the Home Secretary said yesterday were implementing a new victims voice panel which will be integral to victims working with us as government if after those recommendations have been recommended there is further work to do, we will do that work. It was not clear from Ms Davies-Joness comments if Labour would vote against or abstain but given the party is opposed to holding the inquiry it would seem likely that it would be the former rather than the latter. 07:38 AM GMT Jenrick criticises absolutely disgusting bandwagon comment from Starmer It was absolutely disgusting for Sir Keir Starmer to claim politicians calling for a national inquiry into grooming gangs were jumping on a bandwagon of the far Right, Robert Jenrick said this morning. The shadow justice secretary told GB News: I thought it was the most outrageous smear. Millions of people across our country want to see justice for the victims. What we are talking about here is thousands, perhaps tens of thousands, of vulnerable young girls who were tortured and raped in the most horrific, evil manner in towns and cities the length and breadth of our country. And to hear the Prime Minister smearing those of us who want to see the truth emerge I thought was absolutely disgusting. More than just that, this was the same attitude that got us into this mess in the first place, it is because people like Keir Starmer have said you should turn a blind eye for fear of political correctness that we have seen this happen time and again, decade after decade. It has to end. The Met Office has forecast that most parts of the country will see temperatures drop to between -3C and -10C on Wednesday night - Andrew Milligan/PA Wire Britain is braced for freezing temperatures of as low as -16C in the coming days, with more flooding expected across the country. The Met Office has forecast that most parts of the country will see temperatures drop to between -3C and -10C on Wednesday night. But in some areas of rural Scotland and northern England, the mercury could plummet as low as -14C on Wednesday night and -20C on Thursday night. The Environment Agency warned the public to remain vigilant and said that melting snow would cause further flooding on Wednesday. A resident talks to a journalist through the window of his flooded home in Loughborough, Leicestershire - Darren Staples More than 300 flood warnings and alerts remain in force in England and Wales, with flooding particularly severe in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Gloucestershire. The most severe flooding was at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where residents have been evacuated after a danger to life warning was issued. The local fire service declared a major incident after rescuing 59 people from floodwater. Neil Monteith, 49, who owns a caravan at Proctors Pleasure Park which has been engulfed by floodwater, said: It is the highest Ive seen it Ive never seen it this bad before. Stefan Laeger, the Environment Agencys flood duty manager, urged the public to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater. Residents at Proctors Pleasure Park, near Barrow upon Soar, in Leicestershire, were evacuated as the floods struck - Joe Giddens/PA Wire A number of NHS trusts in England declared critical incidents amid exceptionally high demands on emergency departments, which a number attributed to the cold weather and flooding. On Tuesday morning, heavy snowfall forced four airports to close their runways. Aberdeen, Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester airports all reopened within hours. Hundreds of schools were also closed across the country in areas including Lancashire, Yorkshire and north-east Scotland. On Tuesday, the Met Office issued a new yellow weather warning for ice covering north Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and West and South Yorkshire until midday on Wednesday. Two yellow snow and ice warnings are also in place across most of Northern Ireland and parts of northern and western Scotland until midday on Wednesday. Southern England is also braced for snow, with a yellow weather warning in place from 9am until midnight on Wednesday. The Met Office has warned of the risk of power cuts and vehicles becoming stranded in the snow. 05:06 PM GMT Thats all for today Thank you for following The Telegraphs live coverage of the flooding and snow. This live blog is now closed. 05:00 PM GMT Pictured: Plane lands at snow-covered Manchester Airport A Ryanair plane lands at a snow-covered Manchester Airport - AP Photo/Jon Super 04:48 PM GMT New ice warning issued in England and Wales A new yellow weather warning for ice has been issued by the Met Office in England and Wales. The forecaster said ice is expected in north Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and West and South Yorkshire between 5pm today and midday on Wednesday. The Met Office predicted that the ice would impact transport and cause injuries from slips and falls. 04:45 PM GMT In pictures: Snow and flooding across Britain A man wades through the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, with his dog - Gareth Fuller/PA Wire A man wraps himself in a blanket at Glenshee Ski Centre in the Cairngorms, Scotland - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images 04:35 PM GMT Firefighters union demands more funding for flood response The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has demanded the Government increases funding for firefighters flood response. Matt Wrack, the unions general secretary, said: With fire and rescue services severely overstretched after years of cuts, it is high time that the vital role firefighters play in flood response is formally recognised and fully funded. To ensure we are prepared for future floods, ministers must act now to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England with the funding and resources urgently needed. 04:20 PM GMT In pictures: Flooding across Britain Proctors Park caravan park near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, is submerged in floodwater - Chris De Bretton-Gordon / Alamy Live News A swan swims by an abandoned car in Wateringbury, Kent, after the River Medway burst its banks - Victoria Jones/Shutterstock 03:49 PM GMT Britain braces for freezing temperatures as more flooding forecast Britain is braced for freezing temperatures and more weather disruption with flooding set to continue across the country. The Met Office has forecast that most parts of the country will see temperatures drop on Wednesday night to between -3C and -10C. In some areas of rural Scotland and northern England the mercury could plummet as low as -14C on Wednesday night and -20C on Thursday night. It comes as more than 300 flood warnings and alerts remain in force in England, with flooding particularly severe in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Gloucestershire. These include a danger to life warning at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where residents have been evacuated. The Environment Agency has warned the public to remain vigilant and said melting snow would cause further flooding on Wednesday. 03:29 PM GMT Man rescued from pub amid severe flood warning in Leicestershire A man was rescued from a caravan park on a raft this morning in Leicestershire. Graham Johnson, who lives in a boat with his wife and dog, was rescued from Proctors Park, Barrow upon Soar, where the Environment Agency has issued a danger to life flood warning. He told Sky News he was at the pub when the water started to rise rapidly, making Mr Johnson and his wife fear their boat was about to be swept towards the bridge. I went out for a couple of pints as usual and the next thing we know, bingo, he said. Thats our pride and joy where we live and we didnt want to lose it. More rain, sleet and snow is set to fall in the area over the coming days. 03:06 PM GMT In pictures: Snow hits Britain Dogs go out for a walk in Saddleworth, on the outskirts of Manchester - AP Photo/Jon Super A dusting of snow on the Liver Building in the centre of Liverpool - ADAM VAUGHAN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock 02:53 PM GMT Public urged to remain vigilant as 300 houses flooded The public has been urged to remain vigilant after 300 houses were flooded in heavy rainfall. The Environment Agency said at least 300 properties have flooded across the country since the New Year. Stefan Laeger, its flood duty manager, said: We urge people to remain vigilant over the next few days and advise anyone travelling to be especially careful and urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car. 02:24 PM GMT Coldest nights of winter to come this week The Met Office has warned the coldest nights of this winter are expected this week. Temperatures are set to plummet down to -16C on Thursday night in rural areas of Scotland and northern England which have had snow. That would beat the coldest temperature recorded in January last year, which was -14C in Dalwhinnie in the Highlands. These Highland Cattle may have to endure even colder temperatures than the -13.3C recorded in Glascarnoch on Monday night - Peter Jolly 02:11 PM GMT In pictures: Widespread flooding as warnings still in place Flooding on the railway line between Capenhurst and Hooton stations in Cheshire - Peter Byrne/PA Wire A Mercedes is stranded in floodwater in Quorn, Leicestershire, where a major incident was declared - Joe Giddens/PA Wire A man is rescued from the unprecedented flooding in Leicestershire - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 01:41 PM GMT Challenging conditions for emergency services Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services latest figures show it has responded to 380 calls and attended 56 flooding incidents since Monday morning. It said many residents have been evacuated from their homes, boats and caravans during the challenging time. Assistant Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, Judi Beresford, said: We are incredibly proud of our crews, Control and staff for all their outstanding work and efforts during this major incident. We also want to thank the public for their support so far and urge them to continue following safety advice, such as avoiding flooded areas, not driving through floodwater, and checking on vulnerable neighbours. These small actions can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe. Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, as emergency services carry out one of their rescues - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 01:03 PM GMT Flooding in Leicestershire is unprecedented A woman, who lives near the Proctors Pleasure Park in Leicestershire, called the flooding around Barrow upon Soar unprecedented. The woman, who did not wish to be named, said: Ive never seen it as bad as this. It flooded last January but not like this. They put in new flood defences - it used to flood all the time then it stopped, but this is unprecedented. Its a flood plain, thats what its for but they build houses on it and nobody will acknowledge it or accept it. Neil Monteith, 49, who owns a caravan at the park which has been engulfed by floodwater, said he had never seen flooding as bad as it was today. (The water) is the highest Ive seen it, Ive never seen it this bad before, he added. 12:50 PM GMT NHS Trusts declare critical incidents A number of NHS Trusts in England have declared critical incidents amid exceptionally high demands on emergency departments. Critical incidents can be declared when health and care services are so busy that special measures are needed to restore normal operations and keep patients safe. University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust said a high number of older patients respiratory problems had been exacerbated by the cold weather. In a statement on their website, it revealed more than 300 people attended Derriford Hospital as emergencies on Monday, with almost 200 of those admitted for care as inpatients. Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust urged people to consider other options for non-urgent medical care and warned they will face long waits in A&E as resources are stretched. Both Trusts have declared critical incidents on Tuesday, after NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group made the same decision on Monday evening. 12:17 PM GMT Pictured: Man rescued from Leicestershire caravan park Four members of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were seen wading through deep water surrounding caravans on Tuesday morning pulling an inflatable raft on which the man sat holding a blue carrier bag. Bystanders watching the rescue said the flooding was the deepest they had seen. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service rescue a stranded resident of a caravan park, near Barrow upon Soar, where a danger to life flood warning was issued - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 11:44 AM GMT In pictures: Commuters brave the elements A vehicle drives through floodwater in Godalming, Surrey, where a number of flood warnings were in place - James Jagger / Alamy Live News Westminster Bridge is likely to see more snow fall throughout the week with the Met Offices yellow warning across southern England to come into play at 9am tomorrow - George Cracknell Wright Foggy conditions in Mossley, near Ashton-under-Lyne, were commonplace in Manchester - Matt Wilkinson 11:18 AM GMT Liverpool Airport reopens but flights delayed Liverpool John Lennon Airport has announced its runway is back open having opened its terminal about an hour ago. However, passengers were warned many flights were not subject to delays as a result of the runway closure. They were also urged to check the status of their flights with their airlines. 10:34 AM GMT New Met Office warnings as snow expected across southern England A fresh warning for snow is due across southern England on Wednesday. The warning covers an area spanning from Cornwall to Kent, with the Met Office predicting 2-5cm of snow and as much as 10cm over higher ground. Forecasters say the weather could prove disruptive, with rain and sleet more likely near coastal areas. Additionally, the Met Office has extended warnings of snow and ice in Northern Ireland from 3pm until midday tomorrow and west and northern areas of Scotland from midday today until midday tomorrow. Tuesdays weather warnings in place, which are set to expire by midday - Met Office Wednesdays Met Office weather warnings which include snow across much of southern England - Met Office 10:08 AM GMT Get in touch 10:00 AM GMT In pictures: Flooding and snowy scenes across the country Flooded fields in the market town of St Ives, Cambridgeshire - Bav Media A driver braves floodwater in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire, where a major incident has been declared - Michael Regan/Getty Images Extensive flooding at Proctors Pleasure Park, near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where a danger to life flood warning was issued - Tom Maddick / SWNS Residents of the Scottish Highlands town of Aviemore woke to more snow - Euan Cherry Homes across Manchester were also covered in snow, as the citys airport briefly closed for a third day in a row - Phil Noble 09:28 AM GMT Lincolnshire locals waiting for next inevitable incident, says councillor People living in a flooding hotspot are waiting for the next inevitable incident, a local councillor has said. Murray Turner, who is a Liberal Democrat councillor at South Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire, said rescue operations had been going on all day on Monday. He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme the area was also badly flooded in 2023, but no investigation took place to find out how agencies could work together to better deal with it in future. Now, despite much pressure from the local parish councillors and myself as district councillor throughout 2024, those reports have never been received, Cllr Turner said. So whats been happening is were waiting for the next inevitable flooding incident and its producing very bad scenes in the village. Youre walking through silty mud in your front room and youve got no power - its not very good at all. 09:05 AM GMT Emergency services save dozens Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service revealed its crews had saved 59 people from properties across the county yesterday. It was the first organisation to declare a major incident on Monday, having responded to 200 emergency calls by the morning. The Lincolnshire Resilience Forum, which coordinates emergency services in the county, soon followed suit and said it had concern about freezing temperatures forecast overnight and over the coming days. Elsewhere, East Midlands Ambulance Service Trust declared a critical incident on Monday evening for the first time ever. It said a combination of significant patient demand, pressure within local hospitals, and flooding across the East Midlands had led to the escalation. Sadly a mans body was recovered from floodwater in North Yorkshire. Our crews have been busy today responding to multiple flooding incidents with 59 people rescued today from properties. Life at risk? Call 999 Flooded home? Turn off electricity, gas & water Road closed? Find another route Check on vulnerable neighbours pic.twitter.com/lxHJqX8POI Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (@LeicsFireRescue) January 6, 2025 08:50 AM GMT Airports forced to shut runways Liverpool John Lennon Airport remains closed for snow clearing and anti-icing and is hoping to reopen by 10am. Bristol Airport previously grounded all flights, but has now announced all flights are now operating. Earlier, Manchester Airport had to close its runways for a third consecutive day following more snow. Although they were only shut for several hours, it warned passengers their journeys may be delayed. 08:44 AM GMT Weather disrupting rail services Poor weather is affecting services of Northern, Great Western Railway and Mersey Rail, according to National Rail. Trains unable to call at Rotherham Central due to flooding. Disruption is expected until midday between Peterborough and Leicester, affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services. Northern said a fault with the signalling system means no trains can run between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport. Great Western Railway said flooding has closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall. National Rail added although ScotRail services were not currently affected, passengers were still advised to check before travelling. 08:30 AM GMT Watch: This mornings forecast A frosty start for many of us on Tuesday morning with some ice in places Wintry showers in some areas with a further covering of snow possible, but also some sunshine at times Feeling cold with brisk winds in some coastal regions pic.twitter.com/sMsEHX6XqB Met Office (@metoffice) January 6, 2025 08:27 AM GMT Danger to life flood warning issued The Environment Agency has a severe flood warning - indicating a danger to life - in place for the River Soar at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire. It said it had been issued because a large-scale evacuation was required as the water levels rise following heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt. Consequently, flooding of properties is expected to continue, it added. It has also has 190 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 292 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, active across England. National Resources Wales has 15 flood alerts in place. A map of the Environment Agencys flood warnings and alerts in place - Environment Agency 08:20 AM GMT The current weather warnings in place There are still Met Office yellow weather warnings in place across the UK this morning. A yellow snow and ice warning covering Wales and parts of England including the west Midlands, south-west and Manchester does not expire until 10am. Elsewhere, a yellow warning for snow and ice remains in place in Scotland until midday. All of Northern Ireland is also under a yellow warning for snow and ice until 11am. A further warning for snow across southern England doesnt come into force until 9am tomorrow. 08:15 AM GMT Welcome to the blog Good morning and welcome to our coverage of todays weather. Power lines are shown near Beltway 8 the Hardy Toll Road following an overnight snowfall Monday, Feb. 15, 2021 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to prepare disaster relief resources as temperatures across the state continue to fall below freezing, according to a Monday news release. Abbott ordered emergency management officials to work with local partners to update warming center maps, and the Texas Department of Transportation and Texas National Guard were also activated, according to the release. Seven hundred TxDOT employees worked over the weekend to treat roadways with more than 500,000 gallons of brine a saltwater solution that acts as an anti-icing agent and other material, according to the release. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The State of Texas is working around-the-clock to ensure Texans have the resources and support needed as severe winter weather impacts communities across Texas, Abbott said in the release. Previous projections from Houston Chronicle meteorologist Justin Ballard indicated that, while temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, they will not linger for as long as they did during Winter Storm Uri. And, any winter precipitation is expected to stay far north of Houston, which is more likely to get rain on Thursday, Chronicle weather editor Roberto Villalpando reports. Uri, which brought freezing temperatures across the state for as long as 44 straight hours, left nearly 200 people dead, according to previous reporting from the Chronicle. Still, the worst is yet to come for bundled-up Houstonians. Ballard forecasted temperatures hitting their lowest later this week, around Wednesday and Thursday. As temperatures continue to hover just above freezing, local authorities have urged Houston residents to take preventive steps. "We are in for some cold nights this week. Remember the 4 P's: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants," said Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman in a post on X. "Stay safe and warm take all precautions seriously as the cold weather continues." Advertisement Article continues below this ad REMEMBER THE 4 P'S: PEOPLE, PETS, PIPES AND PLANTS We are in for some cold nights this week. Remember the 4 P's: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants Stay safe and warmtake all precautions seriously as the cold weather continues. Follow us at https://t.co/EzyDHKlGz0 pic.twitter.com/0lMXt8lP4V Mark Herman, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 (@Pct4Constable) January 6, 2025 The Texas National Guard has also prepared lifted vehicles and placed personnel on standby to perform rescues as needed, according to the release. Ten other agencies, including the Texas Department of Education, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Department of State Health Services, are also ready should additional resources be needed. Abbott advised anyone unsure of road conditions check DriveTexas.org for the latest information on road safety. Additionally, residents who lose power and are in need of a place to get warm can check tdem.texas.gov/warm to find a warming center near them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Queen Elizabeth II in EastEnders Queen Vic pub in 2001 with Barbara Windsor and Steve McFadden. Photograph: Fiona Hanson/PA The cockney dialect, as associated with the late EastEnders icon Dame Barbara Windsor, may not be as prevalent in todays London, but it remains possibly the most influential English dialect across the world, according to academic research. No longer the preserve of those born within earshot of the Bow Bells in the City of London, today cockney is more likely to be spoken in Essex. But its influences can be found across the UK particularly the south-east, more surprisingly in Glasgow and even in Australia and New Zealand. Young people in London today increasingly speak multicultural London English, a different dialect including elements of cockney as well as other languages and English dialects, which is also now spreading to other UK urban centres. But cockney has not disappeared. With some minor modifications, it has been transplanted to Essex by those who left the East Ends poverty and overcrowding over the 20th century, according to Dr Amanda Cole, a lecturer in linguistics at the University of Essex. Cole, the author of numerous papers on dialects and accents among young Londoners, was among the first generation of people born in Essex to east London-born parents. What we find is cockney has been really influential, particularly in Essex, and across the south-east and the country. And a lot of peoples accents have been changing to become more cockney-like. Not exactly cockney, more estuary English, she said. Past studies have shown even the late Queen Elizabeth II was not immune to a bit of estuary English, a mixture of cockney and received pronunciation, with researchers at Macquarie University in Sydney analysing her Christmas broadcasts and concluding, in 2000, that the monarch was no longer speaking the Queens English herself. Compared with the 1950s, by the 1980s the way she said goose, food or moon, for instance, had changed subtly, said Cole. Her later pronunciation, with the tongue a little bit farther forward in the mouth, was in line with the general patterns of change in southern England. I think what is disappearing is cockney as this sort of emblematic accent: think Barbara Windsor, Ray Winstone. That isnt spoken by young people. Related: Artist hopes to reintroduce cockney rhyming slang to young Londoners But actually, there is this modified cockney, this very south-eastern accent, where a lot of people do use features that are quite cockney. Due to migration and settlement, the way vowels were pronounced in places such as Australia and New Zealand had notable similarities with cockney, she said. Like cockney, the Australian way of saying bake sounds more like the word bike. Those who emigrated took that pronunciation with them. Today it is even more pronounced in Australia, while in the UK it has lessened due to prejudice against working-class accents, particularly cockney, which was judged very negatively, according to Cole. While migration accounts for much of the dialects influence, media also plays a part, such as among EastEnders viewers in Glasgow. Coles research has led her to conclude younger people in Essex speak slightly different cockney to their east London-raised elders. They are less likely to drop an h or say anyfink. And their vowels are less extreme. Mouth is slightly less likely to become mahf. They also say new things that are much less common among their London-raised parents and grandparents such as at the end of the day when introducing the most important point in a discussion, or saying yous when referring to more than one person, she has previously written on The Conversation website. The cockney dialect has lived a rich and colourful life. She has travelled widely, borne a large family of children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and she even met the queen. She hasnt died shes just called Essex now. This article was amended on 8 January 2025. A previous version misnamed the website The Conversation as The Conservation. Donald Trump speaks during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday - Evan Vucci/AP Donald Trump refused to rule out using the US military to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal while announcing plans to expand American territory during his second term. The president-elect said on Tuesday that Greenland, which has been owned by Denmark since 1814, should be sold to the US for national security and threatened to impose tariffs on Danish exports if the countrys government refused his offer. He also called for the Panama Canal to be returned to the US, after it was sold under a 1970s deal signed by the former president Jimmy Carter. Asked at a press conference whether he would rule out military or economic force to acquire Greenland and the canal, he replied: No, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. The Panama Canal used to be under American ownership - Matias Delacroix/AP The US has long harboured ambitions of owning Greenland, and made an offer of $100 million to buy it from Denmark in 1946. The offer was rejected and Denmark has recently reiterated that the autonomous territory is not for sale. Mr Trump said: People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security. Thats for the free world. Im talking about protecting the free world. Adding Greenland to the US would represent the countrys largest land increase since the Louisiana purchase from France in 1803. In response, Mette Frederiksen, the Danish prime minister, said Greenland had made clear that it is not for sale and will not be in the future either. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders, she told the Danish broadcaster TV 2. On one hand, I am pleased regarding the rise in American interest in Greenland, but of course it is important that it takes place in a way where it is the Greenlanders decision, what their future holds. Mr Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr, separately visited Greenland on Tuesday for what he said was a very long, personal day trip. Donald Trump Jr visited Greenland as part of a personal day trip Mr Trump used his appearance in Florida to expand on his plan to acquire the Panama Canal, describing Carters 1977 decision to sell it as a disgrace that had effectively given control of the waterway to China. Jimmy Carter gave it to [Panama] for $1 and they were supposed to treat us well. I thought it was a terrible thing to do, he said. They dont treat us fairly. They charge more for our ships than they charge for ships of other countries. They charge more for our navy than they charge for navies of other countries. They laugh at us because they think were stupid, but were not stupid anymore. So the Panama Canal is under discussion with them right now. Carter died last December and will be commemorated in a state funeral in Washington DC on Thursday. Mr Trump later added that his predecessor was a good man and a fine person who made a big mistake. Jose Raul Mulino, the president of Panama, has previously rejected the idea of turning the canal back to the US. Credit: @OJoelsen/@DonaldJTrumpJr/X During his hour-long Mar-a-Lago address, which was intended to announce foreign investment in US data centres, Mr Trump also said he would rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. He said the 218,000 sq mile ocean basin between the south-eastern US and Mexico was ours and that we do most of the work there. Were going to be announcing at a future date, pretty soonwere going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory, he said. The names used on American maps are typically set by the US Board of Geographic Names, although presidents have previously renamed geographic features via executive action. The press conference marked a significant escalation in Mr Trumps rhetoric against several American allies, including Canada, which he again argued should become the 51st state of the US. He promised to use economic force against the USs neighbour if it did not reduce migration and drug trafficking on their shared border, and complained about low defence spending by Justin Trudeau, the outgoing Canadian prime minister who announced his resignation on Monday. Mr Trump Jr made the private visit to Nuuk in Greenland - EMIL STACH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock He said Canada and the US should get rid of that artificially drawn line between their countries, which he argued would be much better for national security. Dont forget, we basically protect Canadatheyre great, but were spending hundreds of billions here to protect it, he said. Mr Trumps second term, which will begin on Jan 20, will add significant pressure to Western allies to spend more on defence. He said on Tuesday that he would push Nato countries to spend five per cent of GDP on their militaries more than doubling the alliances current target of two per cent. The UK Government has announced it will raise spending to 2.5 per cent, but has not set a deadline for that goal. Mr Trump defended Elon Musk, one of his closest allies, when asked about controversial comments he has made about British politics, including calling Sir Keir Starmer complicit in the rape of Britain. The president-elect said he did not know the people that Mr Musk was talking about, but that he was doing a good job and was a very smart guy. I dont know the people youre talking about, he said. I know he said some negative things about a couple of people that are running for office, but its not so unusual. Jess Phillips said she does not base her policy decisions on the opinions of a very rich man in America. Photograph: David Warren/Alamy Elon Musk knows absolutely nothing about protecting women and girls, Jess Phillips has said after the billionaire called her a rape genocide apologist and an evil witch. Speaking for the first time since Musks flurry of abuse to his 210 million followers on X, Phillips, the safeguarding minister, said the comments had made her more worried about her safety. In an interview with ITV News, Phillips also defended her decision to refuse a councils request for a second national inquiry into so-called grooming gangs, saying a local process would achieve real change more quickly. Related: We stand by Jess: Telford survivors criticise Musks attack on Phillips Phillips decision over Oldham councils request for a national inquiry was the prompt for Musk to take an interest in the issue of the grooming scandal in a series of UK towns and cities, including calling for Keir Starmer to be removed as prime minister. Its ridiculous isnt it, Phillips said when asked how she felt about Musk targeting her. The things that hes saying are so ridiculous as to initially make me just go, what? But then you wake up with the realisation that thats millions of people he has said that to, and you feel immediately like this is going to turn my world upside down and I have to try and limit for how long that is the case. Phillips went on: The thing that annoys me the most about it is it takes up so much bandwidth of my time from a man who knows absolutely nothing about the subject hes talking about, when the only thing I ever want to be doing is being able to use all of my brain power to focus on the hundreds of girls I have supported over the years who have been victims of grooming gangs and what needs to happen to make their lives better. Asked if she had been tempted to agree to Oldhams request for a new national inquiry, Phillips said that was her initial instinct, but that she then decided it was best to follow the model of a localised inquiry that took place in Telford, which reported in 2022. She called the Telford report the only one that has ever done anything to actually change the way the council, the local police, the local CPS [Crown Prosecution Service] operate. In a swipe at senior Conservatives who have condemned her decision, Phillips said she had been involved in helping victims in Telford before the inquiry, adding: I wonder how much Chris Philp or Kemi Badenoch have been involved or even read the documents that came out of Telford, or in fact, any of the inquiries that have already happened. Phillips said she would base my decisions on evidence, not on a very rich man in America. Asked if the abuse had made her concerned for her safety, Phillips said: Of course I worry about my safety. And you have to anyone who has worked in the fields of violence against women and girls. Risk is dynamic and I have to take account of the risks in my life and this is one of them currently. In another interview, with Sky News, Phillips was asked what her message to Musk would be, replying: Just crack on with this getting to Mars. Elon Musk is going to be Elon Musk. Ive got bigger and more important things to be thinking about. Elon Musk Give him a fluffy white cat and a private island and Elon Musk would be a Bond villain straight out of central casting. With his vast wealth, power and endless ambition, he makes Ernst Stavro Blofeld look like a shrinking violet. Escaping from his high-tech domain of electric vehicles and rockets, Musk has bulldozed his way into the political arena using his own X platform, backing Donald Trump for the US presidency, denouncing almost every UK leader, including his erstwhile pal Nigel Farage, while earning the opprobrium of the French president and German chancellor for supporting hard-Right groups in their countries. His quixotic nature means he can be your friend one minute and mortal enemy the next, with no obvious reason for the transition. But it is not Musks political gyrations that should concern us. He will probably fall out with Trump after the inauguration, if not before, because they appear to disagree on immigration and tariffs. Musk is important because he is at the forefront of the new technology that will change all our lives, far more quickly than we appreciate. A year or so ago, Rishi Sunak convened a summit at Bletchley Park to discuss the prospects for regulating the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The former prime minister later staged an in conversation event with Musk, in which the billionaire predicted the end of paid work. We are seeing the most disruptive force in history here, he said. There will come a point where no job is needed you can have a job if you want one for personal satisfaction but AI will do everything. Its both good and bad one of the challenges in the future will be how do we find meaning in life. The summit concluded with some wishy-washy communique on the need for a referee to keep an eye on the super-computers of the future, before the largely faceless AI innovators go on their merry way to continue dragging us all into the unknown. What has happened since about regulating a world that has the capacity not only to take our jobs but destroy mankind? Nothing. Many see the concerns about AI and the people behind it (like Google, Meta, Microsoft, Musk and the rest) to be misplaced. Their rosy view of the potential to be unlocked by this technology is based on what has happened in the past. The optimists point out that the great technological advances of history have enriched the world, not impoverished it, so why should it be any different this time? Ever since Hargreaves invented the spinning jenny, there have been predictions of mass unemployment brought about by automation. Yet it has been accompanied by greater prosperity because machines increase output per person, thereby often boosting demand for labour and wages. However, the dislocation that such revolutions cause is often overlooked. The transition from a largely agrarian to largely urban society in Britain and other countries was massively disruptive, entrenching desperate poverty in the cities for decades. Anyone who doubts it should read Charles Dickens. AI might offer a bright future but getting there will be extremely problematic when millions start losing their jobs in a society where people are reluctant even to venture out in two inches of snow. Yuval Noah Harari in his new book Nexus observes that mass unemployment in the 1920s brought about the rise of totalitarian regimes. What might happen to democracies when automation causes even bigger upheavals in the job market of the 21st century? he asks. Nobody knows what the jobs market will look like in 2050, or even in 2030, except that it will look very different from today. And that is the nub of the issue: nobody knows. The optimists insist that they are right and everything will be fine, so stop fretting, while those who actually invented AI are far less sure. Over Christmas, Geoffrey Hinton, one of the godfathers of AI and a Nobel prize winner, was interviewed on the Radio Four Today programme by guest editor Sajid Javid, the former cabinet minister. He once said he regretted his work and was asked if he still thought there was a 10 per cent chance that AI would wipe out humanity over the next three decades. No, he said, it is now up to 20 per cent. Prof Hinton was among thousands of scientists, entrepreneurs and inventors who in 2022 called for a moratorium on AI development while the risks were properly examined. Their joint statement said: AI labs and independent experts should use this pause to jointly develop and implement a set of shared safety protocols for advanced AI design and development that are rigorously audited and overseen by independent outside experts. Has anyone taken any notice of them, or are they policing themselves? Mustafa Suleyman, founder of the AI company DeepMind, has said that humanity is at an inflection point in history. On our current trajectory, were headed towards the emergence of something that we are all struggling to describe, and yet we cannot control what we dont understand. But if we over-regulate, do we not kill off the benefits AI will bring? Had we bound up atomic research with international red tape, would we also have put back the development of nuclear power, which has been hugely beneficial to mankind and will be in the future? The big difference is that until now inventors have always been able to explain how their creations worked. Todays new technologies are so complex that they are beyond the capacity of humans to understand let alone control. Elon Musk, who has pioneered electric vehicles and is rapidly supplanting land-based broadband with his Starlink satellite system, is also involved in this field. He launched his xAI company on July 12 2023, so that the date (7 + 12 + 23) added up to 42 the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything in Douglas Adamss The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. The Deep Thought supercomputer took seven million years to reach this solution, which was baffling only because no one had asked the right question. Where AI is concerned we still havent, though I suspect Elon Musk is working on it. keir and elon Once upon a time there was a good and fair country and people who lived in countries that were neither good nor fair travelled to that land and made it their home because they knew it to be kind. But some men who made that land their home brought the values of countries that were neither kind nor fair with them. Such men hated the female children they found in the good and fair country. The girls were white but not chaste; they were dirty unbelievers who went about unaccompanied as if they were boys. They disgusted the men, and they tempted them, which made them hate the female children even more. The monsters, for that is what the men became over time, caused savage harm to thousands of girls so many that no one is yet sure of the number and may never be, for some were lost or killed. And the monsters drugged and bribed them, they made them sex slaves, branding the girls flesh with their initials, ramming large implements into their tiny bodies the better to accommodate four men. This may be hard to comprehend, dear reader, but the people of that enlightened land did not protect their daughters. Im sorry to say they abandoned them to their fate. Police, whose duty it was to look after the most vulnerable, either arrested the girls, dismissed their pleas for help or left them with their tormentors. For that famously kind and decent land had fallen under a strange enchantment, which was called multiculturalism. It said that, no matter how wicked or cruel the men were to the children, you must never speak of it. The dark spell, and what a powerful spell it was (enough to vanquish justice and compassion), caused any who dared to say that Pakistani Muslim men were targeting white girls to become the bad people. Because all cultures are equal, you see, even ones that dont believe in equality or which agree that girls who arent virgins are whores and deserve to be punished. And those who struggled against the powerful spell that stifled their countrymen were called racist. And to be racist or bigoted or far-Right was to be far more hateful than any hatred inflicted on female children, or so the people of the good and fair country were told by their leaders. And when the monsters swore at the children whom they were raping, saying, White slag! White c! well, that wasnt at all racist. Because multiculturalism and the BBC say it cannot be so. A few brave women (Julie, Ann, Maggie, Sarah) who woke from the enchantment and warned young girls were in danger from British Pakistani men were banished and forced to apologise for being reckless in my choice of words. Or they lost their seat in the shadow Cabinet. And the evil a vast, suppurating evil such as the land had not known for a thousand years continued to blight that good and fair country. The authorities colluded to make sure the hatred must never speak its name, and the girls carried their lonely torment within them and their rapists got access to the babies they had impregnated them with. (Oh, yes, they did. So strong was the multicultural enchantment it made people surrender the values they had been born to.) And the monsters were not banished from the good and fair country, not one of them sent back to countries that were neither good nor fair, in case their human rights were breached. Then, one day, the richest man in the whole wide world came along and broke the dark spell. Elon had read court transcripts telling what those monsters had done to the female children, and he could not believe such unfathomable depravity had taken root in the good and fair country. Because of his great wealth, Elon could not be intimidated into agreeing that thousands of white girls should have been used as a peace offering to placate the gods of multiculturalism. His righteous wrath shamed the cowardly leaders of the land and in their panic they cried Misinformation! But the people were having none of it. For they were awake now and they saw what horrors the brutes had been allowed to get away with. As the wicked enchantment lifted, the malevolent myth of multiculturalism was unmasked, the country slowly but surely recovered its senses and demanded the guilty be found and punished, even unto the highest in the land. As this is a fairytale, I guess it would be nice to say that they all lived happily ever after. Yet, even after it was agreed all the monsters would be deported to great national rejoicing, there was a terrible stain on the good and fair countrys history that would never quite be expunged. It stood shamed before the civilized world. And in the national memory, lodged forever it seemed, were the anguished, tortured, frightened cries of those who were allowed to suffer and die to avoid stirring up racial hatred. The girls. The girls. The girls. Shame and devastating sadness Sir Keir Starmer has no idea what hes up against. Not this time. Since he entered Downing Street six intolerable months ago, the Prime Ministers ability to strike exactly the wrong note on any given occasion has never failed him, but his denunciation of Elon Musk for spreading lies and misinformation about Pakistani-heritage Muslim child-rape gangs is a whole orchestra of discordant deceit. Many Britons feel deeply grateful that the billionaire owner of X (formerly Twitter) was moved to intervene in this disgusting scandal, I suspect, and Musk has certainly provoked more soul-searching in 10 days than Westminster managed in 10 years. The Prime Ministers imputation that those who want a full-throated national inquiry into the evil gangs, and the cowardly state apparatchiks who covered them up, were simply seeking to jump on a bandwagon of the far-Right is obscene. Apparently, thousands of survivors who endured mass rape as children (20 men awaiting their turn downstairs, one woman recalled) are far-Right for wanting answers and accountability. Is it far-Right, Prime Minister, to object that your primary torturer was released early after a derisory sentence and now lurks menacingly outside your home? Thats what has happened to Liz, who still lives in Rotherham. Liz tells me she wants a collective inquiry to show the depth of whats happened and to go after those who failed us. Like other victims of Pakistani rape gangs, Liz is disgusted with the strange, soulless man who had the chance at his Monday press conference to speak for the whole nation. He could have expressed the shame and devastating sadness we feel that such bestial crimes should have been committed here, and for so long. Instead, Sir Keir spoke out of narrow party self-interest, only sounding vaguely passionate when addressing what really troubles him: Islamophobia. Exactly as he did back in July after the massacre of children in Southport. Berated by a crowd of locals whom he refused to speak to after hastily laying a wreath, Starmer couldnt wait to dash to a mosque where he vowed to take every step possible to keep the Muslim community safe. That meant creating a new violent disorder unit to deal with all the far-Right thugs who, for some reason, objected to three little girls at a Taylor Swift dance class being slaughtered. Cant think why. People on social media who, in the heat of the moment, posted deeply unsavoury, inflammatory reactions or retweeted conspiracy theories were arrested and jailed with an alacrity and force that was entirely absent when it came to catching the foul fiends who committed some of the most despicable crimes imaginable. (One police officer explained to a distraught father that his daughter being raped might actually teach her a lesson.) In both cases, we see the same sly, leftie-liberal playbook. Minimise the rape/killing/trafficking of young girls. Call it grooming and not what it is: raping children. Refuse to disclose the ethnic identity of the perpetrators to prevent racism. Accuse anyone who mentions the religion or ethnicity of the perpetrators of bigotry and dog-whistle politics. Under pressure, admit that the perpetrators are Asians (to the understandable anger of Sikhs, Hindus and Christians). Deflect attention from the sheer stomach-churning horror of the crimes and the wild, unappeasable sorrow of the victims and switch the focus to the inappropriate language or harmful rhetoric of people who are prepared to call out the most depraved assaults and most shocking cover-up in British history. Sir Keir genuinely seems more outraged about Elon Musk calling safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a genocidal rape apologist for her refusal to authorise a national inquiry into the Oldham scandal (she insists the council can have its own inquiry) than he is about the 12-year-old who was driven at night to a Yorkshire wood where she was forced to give oral sex to at least 10 men (more cars kept arriving as word spread) before being left alone in the dark. If a prime minister cant empathise, just for a few seconds, with the terror that child experienced then he shouldnt be leading the country. But Starmer was clearly far more at ease saying he was very shocked and angered at the killing of George Floyd, a black American for whom he fell to one knee. As I have learnt since Essex police called on me over an alleged hate crime, British institutions, from Parliament to the police, are obsessed with protected characteristics enshrined in the Equality Act. In 2013, if you were a white working-class kid in care in Keighley, who was passed around from uncle to cousin to nephew, forget it. No characteristics worth protecting, love. In fact, in the unlikely event that poor child had ever plucked up courage to go to the council or the police, her complaint would have been viewed as unhelpful to the greater goal of anti-racism and diversity. Had the ethnic profiles been reversed the child was black or Muslim and the bastards who pimped her out white you can bet we would never have heard the end of it. The British Establishment had something in common with the rapists: they saw the girls as white trash. Viewing everything through the prism of race is a disease of the elite liberal and bureaucratic class, not just here but throughout a self-loathing Western world which sees merit in every culture but its own. In a response on X to Musk and the rape-gangs scandal, the historian and Times columnist Sathnam Sanghera posted: Of course, the vivid fear of innocent white women being violated by brown men was one of the great drivers of British imperial racism. Does Sanghera actually think thousands of brutalised white girls in up to 50 British towns and villages from Rochdale to Oxford made up their ordeals in order to cast racist aspersions on innocent brown men? He quickly deleted his tweet after it caused outrage, so maybe it was just fashionable posturing, but revealing for all that. Holding the opinion that non-white people are somehow always victims is a sign of social superiority, marking one out from ghastly fascist proles like Tommy Robinson. Whatever Robinsons manifold flaws, he inspires huge loyalty among his supporters because he has fought like a lion for girls from his social class. Girls who former Labour home secretary Jack Straw admitted were regarded as easy meat by some of his Pakistani constituents. Thanks to all the big-hearted, bien-pensant apologists for child rapists including Labour politicians increasingly dependent on the Muslim vote- our international reputation is in the gutter. In the US, The Free Press ran a major article this week headlined: The Biggest Peacetime Crime and Cover-up in British History. How did our society sink to these depths of depravity? It is clear that every tier of the system is implicated in the whitewash. Lucy Allan, who was the Conservative MP for Telford from 2015-2024, explained to me how even those who do try to fight for the victims are thwarted and obstructed. After shed met survivors in her Shropshire town, Allan started speaking out in Parliament. The pushback was intense. There was a co-ordinated official response by people in positions of power. Shaun Davies, Telford Council Leader (now the towns Labour MP), immediately published a letter to the Home Secretary stating that no inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) was necessary. He backed up his assertion with claims that we now know were false. Multiple senior men were asked to be co-signatories to his claims and they all readily agreed. Instead of trying to right heinous wrongs, Telford councillors set about discrediting the messengers. Lucy Allan was accused of lying, causing division, racism, being unbalanced, irrational, stupid and motivated not by a desire to help victims but to score political points. This narrative was relentlessly pushed for as long as I campaigned on the issue. It had the intended effect of ensuring that the voice I sought to be for victims would not be heard. Lucy Allan, the former Conservative MP for Telford, was accused of lying, racism and trying to score political points - Andrew Fox Most extraordinary was an unexpected visit the MP received from Anthony Bangham, then the Chief Constable of West Mercia, and John Campion, the Police and Crime Commissioner. The Chief Constable was disparaging about Rotherham MP Sarah Champion, suggesting she was exaggerating the grooming gangs issue and was discredited, Lucy recalls. He said: You wouldnt want to be known as a troublemaker like Sarah Champion. It will harm your reputation and career. Since when is it the role of a chief constable to warn a democratically-elected MP not to campaign for her traumatised constituents? Even Allans Conservative colleagues could be disapproving. The newly-minted Junior Minister for Safeguarding, Vicky Atkins, told me not to speak to the media on the subject as you do not understand the issues. I was summoned by Conservative Peer Baroness Warsi to explain myself. Lucy Allan came up against the oft-repeated refrain that, as 90 per cent of child abuse is committed by white men in domestic settings, why didnt she concern herself with that as it was a more significant problem? She saw this as a blatant denial of the existence of groups of inter-related men of Pakistani heritage preying on young girls at school gates, in takeaways, taxis and playgrounds. They did not want to know. Victims were often blamed, she says, with one young girl being described by police as having been in contact with 53 different Asian males as if it were by choice! There was complete denial that these men were related to each other through cousin marriage and were engaged in a joint enterprise. Now that she has lost her seat, Allan is free to deliver a brutally honest verdict. The people in power believed that being honest about what had happened to the girls would fuel racial tensions. They pushed a narrative that hiding the problem was in the interests of the community, that looking the other way would cement social cohesion and protect society. That line, Lucy now knows for a fact, was pushed by Home Office officials. She has watched as junior ministers, both Conservative and Labour, have spun the same lines, almost word for word, clearly at the behest of civil servants. That denial strategy may once have been well-intentioned (a noble lie), but those who enforced it from the House of Commons to the police stations to the BBC became the enemies of justice, the willing accomplices of the Devil. The social contract between the state and the individual is in tatters. They lied to us, and the public knows they lied. What now? The Government tells us there is no need for another national inquiry, instead they will implement the recommendations of the 2022 Jay report on child sexual abuse (CSA). But CSA is not the same as Group Localised Child Sexual Exploitation (GLCSE), which describes the horrendous and co-ordinated abuse by primarily Pakistani-heritage Muslim rape gangs in towns like Rotherham, Rochdale and Oxford, places the 2022 inquiry didnt even take into account. This is not about mainly white paedophiles, bad though they are. And it certainly cant be left, as Jess Phillips suggests, to councils like Oldham to investigate themselves when many councillors are drawn from the same intensely tribal community as the offenders. The failed model of multiculturalism must be opened up to scrutiny We must do what the girls want. They went unheard for so long. And if they want a national inquiry into the British Pakistani child-rape gangs call them what they are, no obfuscation, no denial, no soothing words then they must have it. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has rightly said that she will try to insert a clause pledging such an inquiry into the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill on Wednesday lets see which MP is foolish enough not to support it. The failed model of multiculturalism must be opened up to scrutiny and a furious public will be entitled to hear why, if it was such a brilliant idea, it could only be maintained via orchestrated deception by the media, the police and most of the political class. All of the rapists who hold dual nationality must be deported. Millions of us would vote for that, wouldnt we? Thanks to Elon Musk the multiculturalism cloak of denial and deceit has been ripped off and the left are suddenly revealed to have no clothes. On the Today programme yesterday, Nick Robinson tried to demolish Robert Jenrick with talk of harmful rhetoric and accusations that Jenrick was seeking to limit immigration to the UK from what he called alien cultures. So what? Insulting and betraying the interests of the white majority doesnt work any more, Nick. The shadow justice secretary stood his ground. In his calm, unrattled confidence, you detected that he knew now that he was talking for Britain and would not be afraid to do so. We have seen millions of people enter the UK in recent years and some of them have backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women. You know, as the debate over Musks interference rages and Labour sees the edifice of diversity politics crashing around their ears, and Starmer looks more inhuman by the day, its easy to forget what this is about. Why it matters so very much. Over the weekend, I made myself read the sentencing remarks of His Honour Judge Peter Rook after the trial of Akhtar Dogar, Anjum Dogar, Kamar Jamil, Mohammed Karrar and Basam Karrar. My God. In paragraph after paragraph, the judge outlines what those Pakistani-heritage brutes did to their victims. Less like sexual abuse than the kind of atrocities you encounter only in wartime. Years of sheer torture .. great brutality.. robbed of their adolescence torment and distress.. apart from using her for your own sexual gratification you coerced her into providing sex to vast numbers of strangers. Up to four or five men would be invited to addresses so they could have sex with her. Customers would become angry. Strangers would burn her with cigarettes. Slapped. She said the men had a pack mentality. Grabbing her by the ponytail and forcing her head down onto his penis. Drink and drugs to make them more malleable. One inserted a hairbrush into her vagina. She suffers from self-loathing. Nightmares, panic attacks, flashbacks, PTSD. Despite being the victim she carries with her a great burden of shame and embarrassment one of vaginal rape, one of oral rape, one of arranging child prostitution, wilful blindness by the authorities, wicked plan to punish her for lying that she had her period, one of vaginal rape, one of oral rape, rape, rape, rape. Its not bearable to read about as an adult, so imagine what it must have felt like to live through it if you were 13 years old. My heart broke when I came to this part: Her mother describes how by the time you had finished with her there was not much left of her apart from her aggression. You took her soul. She felt as though it had been ripped out. We are so sorry that happened to you, sweet girl, whoever you are. And we will not rest until those responsible are brought to account. Until you have compensation. We will not allow men who hate white women and girls, who think we are lower than cattle, to breathe the same air as us. We owe you that much. Barbara Lee, 78, represented the San Francisco Bay Area city in Congress from 1998 until this year. Photograph: Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images Barbara Lee, the California congresswoman who recently retired after serving nearly three decades in the US House of Representatives, has filed paperwork to run for mayor of Oakland. The 78-year-old represented the San Francisco Bay Area city in Congress from 1998 until this year. She opened a campaign account to run for mayor with the California secretary of state on Monday, and a spokesperson for the veteran lawmaker told media she would make an announcement about her decision this week. Lee would be running in a special election to replace Sheng Thao, who was recalled in November, and serve the remainder of her term. Voters ousted the mayor as well as Pamela Price, the district attorney for Alameda county, amid growing frustration over the citys challenges a worsening housing crisis, concerns over crime and rising costs. Thao, who had been the first Hmong American mayor of a major US city, faced intense criticism after the FBI raided her home as part of a corruption investigation. Related: Barbara Lees idealism inspires loyalty in her district. Can it carry her to the Senate? The progressive Lee, who is originally from Texas, is deeply popular in Oakland and her district re-elected her repeatedly with more than 80% of the vote. She is the only Black woman elected to the US House from California regions north of Los Angeles . In 2001, she was the sole member of Congress to vote against the authorization for the use of US military force against those responsible for the September 11 attacks. In 2023, she was the first lawmaker to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. Last year she ran unsuccessfully to represent California in the US Senate seat previously held by the late Dianne Feinstein for 31 years, which the Democratic lawmaker Adam Schiff ultimately won. It was the first election Lee had lost. Supporters have urged her to run for mayor in Oakland. She said last month in her final days in Congress that she was focused on matters in the US House but suggested she was weighing a run. The decision to run for Mayor of Oakland, a city that I have long called home, is not one I take lightly, Lee said. A Rohingya child writes in the Hanifi script at a school in Kutupalong refugee camp, near Coxs Bazar. Books written in the script have been distributed to more than 500 Rohingya schools in Bangladesh. Photograph: Munir Uz Zaman/AFP/Getty Every year, the world loses some of its 7,000 languages. Parents stop speaking them to their children, words are forgotten and communities lose the ability to read their own scripts. The rate of loss is quickening, from one every three months a decade ago to one every 40 days in 2019 meaning nine languages die a year. The UNs culture agency, Unesco, says predictions that half the worlds languages will have died out by the end of the century are optimistic. Some languages are disappearing with their last speakers, but thousands are endangered because they are not being spoken widely enough or are not being used in formal settings such as schools or workplaces. A quiet fightback is under way in communities that feel their traditions are drowned out by the dominance of the most spoken languages globally, such as English, or by the official languages of their country. Tochi Precious, a Nigerian living in Abuja who helps endangered language activists, says: It pains my heart every day to see that a language is dying off, because its not just about the language, its also about the people. Its also about the history associated with it and the culture. When it dies, everything linked to it dies off too. Precious says it was the community aspect that brought her to join efforts to save Igbo, a west African language that was predicted to become extinct by 2025. Ensuring there is a substantial record of words and meanings, how it is written and how it is used is key, according to campaigners such as Precious, who help others protect their languages through the organisation Wikitongues. Amrit Sufi, who speaks the Angika language of Indias eastern state of Bihar, records videos to preserve its very oral culture, providing transcriptions and translations. Documenting the folk songs was my way into getting to know my culture and doing my bit for it, says Sufi, who has recorded dozens of such videos. It is urgent to document and to make it accessible where other people can see it not just archived somewhere in a library, she says. Oral culture is disappearing as new generations are more inclined towards consuming industry-produced music rather than sitting in groups and singing. Sufi says that while Angika has about 7 million speakers, it is not used in schools and is rarely written down, which is accelerating its downfall. Some people are ashamed to speak it because of a perceived stigma attached to it, seeing Angika as inferior to dominant languages such as Hindi. Sufi uses the same set of tools that Precious used for Igbo to upload videos of people speaking Angika. Wikipedia is favoured by language activists as a good way to upload media and build effective and affordable dictionaries. Wikitongues, in particular, focuses on helping activists document languages using collective resources such as dictionaries and alternative-language Wikipedia entries. Wikitongues says it has supported activists to document about 700 languages in this way. There are moves to use artificial intelligence to document languages by processing texts and feeding them into chatbots, though some have ethical concerns around these services stealing written material for training purposes. Many language activists also create books, videos and recordings that can be widely shared. Community radio stations also have a long record of providing services in local languages. For the Rohingya people from Myanmar, who now mostly live as refugees in Bangladesh after decades of persecution, concerns about their mostly oral language being lost because of their dispersal abroad have led to attempts to develop a written version. Books written in the recently developed Hanifi script have now been distributed to more than 500 schools within the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh, which host more than a million people. Sahat Zia Hero, who works with the Rohingya Cultural Memory Centre, says: Using books translated into Rohingya language, as well as historical, political and educational books published in our Rohingya language, can significantly speed up the process of educating our community. If we prioritise teaching our language, especially to the younger generation, we can prevent the loss of both education and cultural identity for future generations. Otherwise, they will face the dual threat of losing their language and access to meaningful education. The museum provides a physical space for Rohingya culture. There are also efforts to use the script on social media, where most Rohingya write their language using Roman or Burmese lettering. But after preservation, activists then have to persuade people to use a language a major challenge. Related: Growing a word forest: the Kenyan teacher trying to save her language from extinction Precious says that even though Igbo is one of Nigerias largest languages, many parents believe only English is useful for a childs future. Parents saw that if you do not speak English you do not belong, youre not part of the society, and it feels like you dont know anything. So, no one was passing down the language any more they used to say youre not going anywhere with Igbo, she says. But efforts to save it have worked, she says, adding that it gives her pleasure to see the language thriving again. I have realised that, yes, a language can be endangered but then the people who speak the language can also fight for its survival. Because 2025 is already here, and definitely Igbo is not going extinct, she says. Shabana Mahmood has given an overall approval rate for moves to open prisons of 68 per cent - Joe Giddens/PA Some 150 criminals serving life sentences have been moved to open prisons since Labour won the election amid an overcrowding crisis in higher security closed jails. Shabana Mahmood, the Justice Secretary, has approved the transfer of 150 lifers and a further 64 offenders jailed for public protection (IPP) to open prisons since taking power in July. The criminals, including offenders convicted of murder and violent offences, were recommended by the Parole Board for transfer to open prisons, where there are minimal security measures. They were approved by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ). However, the Justice Secretary also blocked the transfer of a further 48 lifers and 54 IPP prisoners whom the Parole Board had recommended should be moved to open prisons. The approval rate of 64 per cent is double that of her predecessor Alex Chalks 30 per cent and almost six times that of Dominic Raab, another former justice secretary, who introduced tough restrictions. He approved the transfer of 11 per cent of criminals serving longer indeterminate sentences. The figures come as the Government considers moves as part of its sentencing review to switch more offenders to open prisons earlier in their sentences to help combat overcrowding and tackle reoffending. David Gauke, the Tory former justice secretary heading the review, is expected to recommend that ministers should copy Spain, where a much greater proportion of convicted criminals are free to work and study outside prison walls during the day. Iris House, an open national facility for women, which replaced HMP and Yoi Cornton Vale - PA/Alamy He said the policy could save money and meant that inmates were better prepared for release and therefore less likely to reoffend. MoJ figures show that the average prisoner costs 51,108, but that the average prisoner in an open prison costs 27,348. Six per cent of prisoners in England and Wales 5,143 prisoners out of a total of 86,000 are in category D open prisons. However, unlike overcrowded closed higher security jails, there are proportionately more spare places in open prisons. The previous Tory government relaxed the criteria to allow more shorter-term prisoners to be transferred to open prisons because of the overcrowding crisis. The new figures, however, indicate that this trend has also extended to longer-term prisoners. In the six months since the election in July, parole panels recommended 316 lifers and IPP prisoners for transfer to open prisons. Ms Mahmood, who has the power to approve or reject such recommendations, gave the go-ahead for 214 transfers but blocked 102 an overall approval rate of 68 per cent. IPPs offenders who were considered dangerous but whose crime was not serious enough for a life sentence were more likely to have their moves blocked than lifers, according to the figures obtained by the prisons newspaper Inside Time. Out of 198 lifers recommended for a move by the Parole Board, Ms Mahmood approved 150 but blocked 48 an approval rate of 76 per cent. Among 118 IPPs recommended for a move, she approved 64 but blocked 54 an approval rate of 54 per cent. The approval rates were higher under Labour than they were under the previous Conservative government. In 2022, the then-justice secretary Mr Raab imposed restrictions on transfers to open conditions, saying moves could only take place if they were essential and would not undermine public confidence. He approved just 19 out of 173 recommendations (11 per cent) for transfer by the parole board. Mr Chalk relaxed the rules in 2023 but even so, during the first half of 2024, he approved only about 30 per cent of recommended moves. Laura Janes, a consultant solicitor and the vice-chairman of the Association of Prison Lawyers, told Inside Time: Between June 2022 and May 2023, around only one in 10 Parole Board recommendations were endorsed by the Secretary of State [Dominic Raab]. Since the test changed, the proportion of recommendations accepted has increased, so that the latest data shows that over the last year, around half have been approved. However, what is striking is that since August 2024, almost two-thirds have been approved, suggesting a return to the administration according to far greater weight and respect to the judicial findings of the Parole Board. A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: Prisoners are only moved to open conditions after being thoroughly risk-assessed and taking account of recommendations by the independent Parole Board. Downing Street is opposing calls for a new grooming gangs inquiry because it says there has already been a major investigation into all forms of sexual exploitation Labour MPs will be whipped to vote against an attempt to force a national inquiry into grooming gangs. Kemi Badenoch, the Tory party leader, announced that she would on Wednesday bring forward an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill, calling for a new inquiry. However, Downing Street said it could not support her change because there had already been a major inquiry into all forms of sexual exploitation. Opposition MPs and billionaire Elon Musk have criticised Sir Keir Starmer for refusing demands for a new inquiry amid renewed outrage over the grooming gangs scandal. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said the decision to whip Labour MPs represented moral cowardice. He said: The Labour party announcing they will whip their MPs to vote against a national inquiry into this scandal is total moral cowardice from Keir Starmer and his Labour party. The victims of these heinous child rape gangs deserve honesty, and they deserve the truth. Kemi Badenoch, the Tory party leader, intends to bring forward an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill, calling for a new inquiry to be set up - HOUSE OF COMMONS/UK PARLIAMENT/PA He said many towns had not been looked into and local inquiries dont have the legal powers to compel production of evidence. Labours decision risks perpetuating the cover-up of the rape gangs, Mr Philp said. There will be many Labour MPs in constituencies where these awful crimes took place and where victims still seek justice. They now need to think long and hard about which side of history they want to be on. The Prime Ministers official spokesman also said that if the amendment were passed, it would destroy the whole of the legislation. This is because Mrs Badenoch is tabling it on the second reading of the Bill in the House of Commons. The second reading is the first big stage a Bill has to clear on its passage to becoming law and it is when MPs vote on the broad principle of proposed legislation. Sir Keir Starmer has been criticised by opposition MPs for refusing demands for a new inquiry - AFP Amendments to add sections or delete sections from the text of a Bill are not considered at second reading. That happens at later stages of scrutiny. A vote on a reasoned amendment can happen at second reading. Reasoned amendments essentially set out reasons for rejecting a Bill and if they pass they stop the legislation from progressing. Sir Keirs spokesman said that this was why the Government would vote against such an amendment because it would kill off the whole Bill. The mechanism for this amendment would involve the Opposition voting against the entire [Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill], he said. That means a vote against improved safeguarding measures for vulnerable children, that means a vote against putting more cash in working parents pockets by capping school uniform costs No need for a new inquiry The spokesman also repeated the Governments position that there was no need for a new inquiry, as Prof Alexis Jays investigation which had covered similar ground was only eight years old. On Monday, Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, committed to implementing all 20 recommendations contained in the Jay report but would not put a timetable on the scheme. Downing Street insisted that action to implement some of the inquiry into child sexual abuses recommendations had not been taken as a result of the ongoing row on the subject. The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The Government has been working since it came into office on measures to protect children, to halve violence against women and girls. On mandatory reporting, the Prime Minister and Home Secretary called for these changes 10 years ago. Work on the mandatory reporting criminal offence, the write-round for that kicked off last year and obviously has just concluded ahead of the announcement, so obviously that works been ongoing for some time. Its important the Government explains to the public how seriously the Government is taking this issue, so I think its natural in response to the recent coverage the Government explains what the Governments been doing in this space. As Alexis Jay spoke about ... the Government has been engaged with her, with victims groups, since the election its been working on a number of these measures. It is not yet known whether the Speaker will choose Mrs Badenochs amendment. If not or if the amendment fails the Tories could opt to table a normal amendment seeking to change the Bill. On Monday, Mrs Badenoch wrote on social media of her plans to put forward an amendment to the Childrens Wellbeing Bill. I was serious when I said it's time to get justice for victims. So on Wednesday, Conservatives will put forward an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing Bill to require a full national inquiry into the rape gangs grooming scandal. If the amendment is selected, I hope MPs from Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) January 6, 2025 One Labour minister has already said she would not be voting for Mrs Badenochs amendment. Alex Davies-Jones said the Government was focused on implementing the recommendation of Prof Jays inquiry. The minister for victims and violence against women and girls said: I wont vote for it because weve already had a national inquiry into child sexual exploitation and abuse. The Prof Alexis Jay inquiry conducted an extensive investigation. Over 700 brave victims and survivors gave their testimony to that, and it is for them that we need to deliver justice and we need to get on with the job of delivering for them and working at pace to deliver those recommendations that the previous government failed to do. If, once those recommendations have been implemented, there is further work to do, then of course we will do that work. Tyrin Truong after winning the Bogalusa, Louisiana, mayors office in 2022 at age 23. Photograph: WWL Louisiana One of the USs youngest municipal mayors was arrested on Tuesday morning in connection with a drug-trafficking investigation by authorities in his home state of Louisiana. The charges against Tyrin Truong, who was 23 when he was elected mayor of the city of Bogalusa in 2022, include engaging in transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and the illicit solicitation of sex work. Truong is among seven defendants charged in the investigation conducted by Louisiana state police and the Bogalusa police department beginning in April 2024. According to a statement from the state police, investigators allege that Truong and the others collectively used social media platforms to distribute [drugs illegally] and manage payments for them, further expanding their reach and criminal activity. The investigation also determined that profits from drug sales were used to purchase firearms, the state polices statement continued. Some of those guns were then funneled to people who could not legally possess those weapons and others were linked to violent crimes in the Bogalusa area, the statement added. Related: Louisiana reports first human death in US from bird flu Truong, now 25, faces counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, unauthorized use of movable property and soliciting for prostitutes. Colin Sims, the Louisiana district attorney whose jurisdiction includes Bogalusa, on Tuesday alleged that Truong organized entertainment with a sex worker at a short-term rental home that he rented with public funds as he attended a mayors conference in Atlanta. Six others from Bogalusa also are charged with transactions involving drug-related proceeds. They are MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu, 24; De-Saleem Wali Pittman, 24; Dirul S Pittman, 22; Salehal-Dien Malike Pittman, 26; Tonya Renee Stage, 51; and Devan Michael Williams, 28. De-Saleem Pittman is accused of distributing illegal drugs and that defendant, Cefalu, Stage and Williams are accused of plotting to do so. State police said the drugs at the center of the case included opioids; MDMA, sometimes colloquially referred to as ecstasy; high-grade marijuana; and THC products. In Louisiana, marijuana is only legal for medicinal use, and some types of THC products have not been legalized. Truong, a Democrat, pulled off what was considered an upset victory when he won the mayors seat of Bogalusa by defeating the independent incumbent Wendy Perrette. Having graduated from Washington University in St Louis, Missouri, with a degree in African American studies, Truong was the youngest mayor in the history of the 111-year-old city, which has a population of about 10,000. The Black grandson of a Vietnamese immigrant who fought in the Vietnam war, Truong later told the Louisiana Illuminator that his priorities were to decrease crime and corruption in Bogalusa, which in 2008 had made unflattering national headlines after a woman who had just been initiated into a local chapter of the white supremacist Ku Klux Klan organization was shot to death. The city was where a civil rights march to Louisianas capital of Baton Rouge protesting racism against Black people began with 25 demonstrators in 1967. It eventually grew to 600 participants, who faced significant local hostility and needed protection from more than 2,000 members of the state national guard and police officers, according to information from the US civil rights trails website. Truong encountered troubled political waters in April when he received a letter from Louisianas legislative auditor informing him that the citys government had fallen out of compliance with state audit laws. The municipal government had not turned in its 2022 audited financial statement, which was due about six months after Truong took office in January 2023. That left Bogalusa which is about 73 miles (117km) north of New Orleans unable to legally receive state money, grants or federal dollars that would support infrastructure, recreation and law enforcement services. In a written response, Truong argued that his predecessor did not facilitate a proper transition. Truong did not immediately comment on the authorities allegations against him. He had delivered Bogalusas state of the city address just four days before his arrest and said he was elected at an age when many people are still learning valuable life lessons. I am not different, Truong said. I appreciate the trust and confidence you have placed in me, and I dont take it lightly. Every day, we aim to get better. And I ask that we all extend more grace to one another. Mistakes will be made as they have been. But I was always taught that you get back up, brush it off and apply the lesson for [the] future. By Tuesday morning, there was a large law enforcement presence outside Truongs home. He was soon listed as being among the people detained at the local jail and was later released on bail. Sims said later on Tuesday: We are going to continue to invest time and resources into helping the citizens of Bogalusa. We are not finished. Ramon Antonio Vargas and WWL Louisianas Kenny Kuhn contributed reporting The water in the Gulf of Mexico appears bluer than usual off of East Beach on Sat. June 24, 2023 in Galveston. Jill Karnicki/Staff photographer In his first public remarks since winning the presidential election, President-elect Donald Trump made a bold promise Tuesday morning to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Trump claimed the new name was the rightful name, arguing that Mexico, which he called a very dangerous place at the press conference, was hurting the U.S. through immigration and trade. The President-elect has proposed massive tariffs upon Mexico over immigration. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring, Trump said. "What a beautiful name. And it's appropriate. It's appropriate, and Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trumps news conference at Mar-a-Lago Tuesday, streamed live by ABC News, included other noteworthy announcements, such as a $20 billion foreign investment to create data centers across the country with the first phase kicking off in Texas, among other states. But his vision for the Gulf of Mexico is what caught social media by storm. President-elect Donald Trump, shown here before the election, speaks at a Super Tuesday election night party Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla. Evan Vucci/Associated Press The name-change plan prompted a flurry of criticism and excitement, with a mix of online humor, patriotic reveling and genuine concern. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) quickly announced her support for Trump's name-change plan on X. "Ill be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America!" Greene said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But not all were impressed. We are living in the stupidest of times, wrote X user Brian Krassenstein. I feel like we are being led by Patrick from Spongebob. We are living in the stupidest of times... Trump: "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America." I feel like we are being led by Patrick from SpongeBob. pic.twitter.com/cxX6txN1HR Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) January 7, 2025 There was a steady stream of social media posts calling Trump fatuous because of the Gulf of America remark. "Instead of confronting the cost of eggs, Trump says he will change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Get prepared for four more years of rambling nonsensical pressers filled with Trumps 3:00am fantasies and speculations," X user Marlene Robertson wrote, attaching a picture of Trump with the caption "American Idiot." Advertisement Article continues below this ad Some users took Trumps commentary to be indicative of an abuse of power and status, comparing the President-elects rhetoric to that of former dictators. Others wondered if Trump would have the authority to make the name change as president, or what purpose it would actually serve American citizens. and what does this do for america? pic.twitter.com/CG9m3Zzsui bry (@brytonyourlife) January 7, 2025 For some critics, their reaction came down to a simple eye roll. US Pres-Elect Trump: Will Change Name Of Gulf Of Mexico To Gulf Of America pic.twitter.com/YMMNTwrCMm CEO Technician (@CEOTechnician) January 7, 2025 On the other hand, there was an outpouring of excitement from MAGA Republicans and Trump supporters online, who applauded Trump for the name-change comment, crowning his remarks as another example of trolling worth praise and hard-fisted nationalism worth celebrating. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trump is truly the greatest troll that has ever, or will ever exist! X user SwampMarine wrote. America is so freaking back, X user Nick Sortor wrote. Meta will get rid of factcheckers, dramatically reduce the amount of censorship and recommend more political content on its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Threads, founder Mark Zuckerberg has announced. In a video message, Zuckerberg vowed to prioritise free speech after the return of Donald Trump to the White House and said that, starting in the US, he would get rid of factcheckers and replace them with community notes similar to X. X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, relies on other users to add caveats and context to contentious posts. Zuckerberg said Metas factcheckers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than theyve created. The tech firms content moderation teams will be moved from California to Texas where there is less concern about the bias of our teams, he said. He admitted that changes to the way Meta filters content would mean were going to catch less bad stuff. Related: Meta claims news is not an antidote to misinformation on its platforms Meta has more than 3 billion users globally. In a wide-ranging statement, Zuckerberg said Meta would also get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse and work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more. He cited Europe as a place with an ever increasing number of laws institutionalising censorship and making it difficult to build anything innovative and said: Latin American countries have secret courts that can order companies to quietly take things down. Zuckerberg, 40, framed the decision to get rid of factcheckers as a return to an argument in favour of freedom of expression that he made at Georgetown University in October 2019. He said Novembers US presidential election felt like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritising speech. The announcement comes days after Nick Clegg, the former UK deputy prime minister, announced he was stepping down as Metas president of global affairs to be replaced by the prominent Republican Joel Kaplan. Metas oversight board, co-chaired by figures including the former prime minister of Denmark Helle Thorning-Schmidt, responded to the announcement of what is effectively a crowd-sourced approach to factchecking with a statement that said: We look forward to working with Meta in the coming weeks to understand the changes in greater detail, ensuring its new approach can be as effective and speech-friendly as possible. It welcomed the announcement that Meta would revise its approach to factchecking, but said: It is essential that decisions on content are taken with maximum input from voices outside of Meta, including of the people who use its platforms every day. It concluded: We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Nick Clegg who, as president of global affairs at Meta, was instrumental in overseeing the creation of the oversight board and has been a strong advocate for freedom of speech on Metas platforms. We look forward to Joel Kaplans leadership in continuing this important work. In his five-minute statement, Zuckerberg said: Governments and legacy media have pushed to censor more and more. A lot of this is clearly political, but theres also a lot of legitimately bad stuff out there, drugs, terrorism, child exploitation. These are things that we take very seriously, and I want to make sure that we handle responsibly. So we built a lot of complex systems to moderate content, but the problem with complex systems is they make mistakes, even if they accidentally censor just 1% of posts, thats millions of people, and weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship. The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritising speech. He said that removing some restrictions on content on topics such as gender and immigration would make sure that people can share their beliefs and experiences on our platforms and he said the focus of filters that scan posts for policy violations would be shifted to only tackling illegal and high severity violations with Meta, relying on users to report lower severity violations before it takes action. By dialling them back, were going to dramatically reduce the amount of censorship on our platforms, he said. Were also going to tune our content filters to require much higher confidence before taking down content. The reality is that this is a tradeoff. It means were going to catch less bad stuff, but well also reduce innocent peoples posts and accounts that we accidentally take down. The UKs Department for Science, Innovation and Technology said: We are looking closely at Metas announcement impacting its US platform. The UKs Online Safety Act will oblige them to remove illegal content and content harmful to children here in the UK, and we continue to urge social media companies to counter the spread of misinformation and disinformation hosted on their platforms. Robert Jenrick The integration of minorities into the mainstream of society has exercised politicians and others for years. What does it mean to be British is a question asked often, especially since the London transport bombings in 2005. A common sense of belonging, as well as respect for our institutions and traditions, are at the core of this search for British identity. Those who come to live here should seek to assimilate, and yet for many years the creed of multiculturalism discouraged this. It was a characteristically British fudge, a toleration of other peoples ways, religions, cuisines, languages and dress. But it was supposed to be a two-way street: immigrants were expected to subscribe to the value system of the host nation. The current furore over the ethnicity of the grooming gangs responsible for the sexual abuse of thousands of girls indicates that this debate is far from over. Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, said that the root of the problem was importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women. He called it the final nail in the coffin for liberals who still cling to the argument that Britain is an integration success story. Presumably Mr Jenrick would still like it to be a success story and does not seek to foment division among different groups with all the attendant dangers that brings. But this is still a two-way street, so it is dismaying to discover that one of the frontrunners to lead the main Muslim representative group in the UK believes children in the Islamic community should be taught to identify themselves primarily as Muslim rather than British. Wajid Akhter, who is standing for secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), reportedly said that being a Muslim is an act of revolutionary defiance at odds with the prevailing culture. He also condemned New Year celebrations as pagan, mixed-gender and the first step on a slippery slope, according to analysis of his speeches and writings by the Policy Exchange think tank. Groups like the MCB can be very influential among ordinary Muslims. It maintains that it seeks to foster mutual respect and shared values, but the rhetoric of its leaders suggests otherwise. They need to put their country first. No distinctive culture or religion supersedes our duty to be part of an integrated United Kingdom. Researchers found that one additional case of cancer was spotted for every 1,000 women screened when AI was used. Photograph: Rui Vieira/PA The use of artificial intelligence in breast cancer screening increases the chance of the disease being detected, researchers have found, in what they say is the first real-world test of the approach. Numerous studies have suggested AI could help medical professionals spot cancer, whether it is identifying abnormal growths in CT scans or signs of breast cancer in mammograms. However, many studies are retrospective meaning AI is not involved at the outset while trials taking the opposite approach often have small sample sizes. Important, larger studies do not necessarily reflect real-world use. Now researchers say they have tested AI in a nationwide screening programme for the first time, revealing it offers benefits in a real-world setting. Prof Alexander Katalinic, a co-author of the study from the University of Lubeck in Germany, said: We could improve the detection rate without increasing the harm for the women taking part in breast cancer screening, adding the approach could also reduce the workload of radiologists. Related: AI use in breast cancer screening as good as two radiologists, study finds Katalinic and his colleagues analysed data from 461,818 women in Germany who underwent breast cancer screening between July 2021 and February 2023 as part of a national programme targeting asymptomatic women aged 5069. All of the women had their scans independently examined by two radiologists. However, for 260,739 of the women, at least one of the experts used an AI tool to support them. The AI tool not only visibly labels scans it deems unsuspicious as normal, but it issues a safety net alert when a scan it rates as suspicious has been judged unsuspicious by the radiologist. In such a case the tool also highlights the area of the scan it suggests merits scrutiny. Overall, 2,881 of the women in the study, which is published in the journal Nature Medicine, were diagnosed with breast cancer. The detection rate was 6.7% higher in the AI group. However, after taking into account factors such as age of the women and the radiologists involved, the researchers found this difference increased, with the rate 17.6% higher for the AI group at 6.70 per 1,000 women compared with 5.70 per 1,000 women for the standard group. In other words, one additional case of cancer was spotted per 1,000 women screened when AI was used. Crucially, the team said the rate at which women were recalled for further investigation as a result of a suspicious scan was approximately the same. In our study, we had a higher detection rate without having a higher rate of false positives, said Katalinic. This is a better result, with the same harm. The team said the tools safety net was triggered 3,959 times in the AI group, and led to 204 breast cancer diagnoses. By contrast, 20 breast cancer diagnoses in the AI group would have been missed had clinicians not examined the scans deemed normal by AI. Stefan Bunk, another co-author and a co-founder of Vara, the company that built the AI tool, said the technology increased the speed at which radiologists examined scans flagged as normal, adding calculations showed even if these scans were not reviewed by experts the overall breast cancer detection rate would be higher and the recall rate lower than without the tool. That, he said, meant fewer false positives for women and a reduced workload for radiologists. Stephen Duffy, emeritus professor of cancer screening at Queen Mary University of London, who was not involved in the work, said the results were credible and impressive. Here in the UK, there is specific interest in whether use of AI plus a single radiologist can safely replace reading by two radiologists. The sooner this is researched definitively the better, he said. Dr Kristina Lang, of Lund University, said the study added to the growing body of evidence supporting the potential benefits of incorporating AI into mammography screening. But she added that the large increase in detected in situ cancers raised concerns, as these cancers are more likely to be slow growing and may contribute to the overdiagnosis burden of screening. Long-term follow-up is essential to fully understand the clinical implications of integrating AI into mammography screening, she said. The results are encouraging, but it is essential to ensure that we implement a method capable of detecting clinically relevant cancers at an early stage, where early detection can meaningfully improve patient outcomes. Dr Katharine Halliday, the president of the Royal College of Radiologists, said the organisations most recent census showed a 29% shortfall of radiologists in the NHS. Any tools that can boost our accuracy and productivity are welcome. But, while the potential benefits are significant, so are the potential risks, she said. It is vital that deployment of AI into the NHS is done carefully, with expert oversight. Cora Amelia Robinson married Walter Musk, who was transferred to British intelligence towards the end of the Second World War, in 1944 Elon Musk has said his white working-class grandmother might have been abducted by a grooming gang if she had been born in modern Britain. The tech billionaire has been tweeting about the scandal, in which thousands of vulnerable girls were raped and sexually abused by gangs of mainly British-Pakistani men. Mr Musks interventions brought grooming back into the headlines after he hit out at the Governments refusal to hold a new national inquiry into historic abuse. Cora Amelia Robinson, Mr Musks paternal grandmother, was born in Liverpool in August 1923 but left the UK to settle in South Africa. She married Walter Musk, who was transferred to British intelligence towards the end of the Second World War, in 1944, and gave birth to Errol, Mr Musks father, in 1946. Elon Musk wrote that my Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present day Britain - Lukasz Glowala/Reuters Writing on X, the social media site he owns, on Tuesday, Mr Musk said: My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression, only to be bombed in World War Two. To earn money for food, she cleaned houses, leaving me with a lasting respect for those who do so. My Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present day Britain. Mr Musk has previously spoken fondly of his grandmother on social media. When Margaret Thatcher died in April 2013, he said: Always admired Margaret Thatcher she was tough, but sensible and fair, much like my English nana. Five years later, he described his grandmother as very stern and strict and yet kindest of all. In a post last year, he said he was from a British/English background, not an Afrikaner background. She is reported to have retained such affection for her home country that she would always stand up when Elizabeth II appeared on television. My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2. To earn money for food, she cleaned Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 Cora Amelia Robinson was one of five siblings and grew up in a modest terraced house in Mossley Hill, a suburb in the south-east of Liverpool. Last year, her niece Marshall Robinson, who is now 86, claimed that Mr Musk had turned down an attempt to get in touch by one of his relatives, telling The Daily Mail: I have never been in touch, but one of the family did send him a social media message and he just said What do you want? That was it. Mr Robinson said he was shocked to discover his family link to the White House, and had met Mr Musks father while in the Navy in South Africa. His sister Shane, who now lives in Gloucestershire, added that the family had discovered the connection with the worlds richest man by chance. She said: I have thought about getting in touch with Elon but I decided not to. Were his poor relations, after all. She said that while some people considered Mr Musk a bit mad, he was also very intelligent [and] intelligent people often dont come across very well. On Monday, Sir Keir Starmer hit back at Mr Musks criticisms over the grooming gangs scandal, appearing to accuse him of spreading lies and misinformation online. The Tesla and X owner has posted dozens of comments on social media criticising the Prime Minister and calling for a fresh national inquiry. He has also derided Sir Keirs treatment of the riots last summer and expressed support for Tommy Robinson, the jailed far-Right activist whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Asked about the interventions, Sir Keir 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. Mr Musk responded by claiming that Sir Keir, a former director of public prosecutions, was refusing a national inquiry as it would show he was deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes. The Prime Minister, who ran the Crown Prosecution Service between 2008 and 2013, was forced to admit in 2012 that a generation of vulnerable girls had been let down by the system during that time. Speaking in the wake of the Rochdale grooming scandal, he said the perpetrators escaped justice for decades because the authorities had failed to take the abuse seriously. Donald Trump speaks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday. Photograph: Scott Olson/Getty Images Hollywood actors at Sundays Golden Globe awards did not make their usual jokes or protests. Silicon Valley titans are falling over each other to donate to his inauguration fund. In Washington, some Democrats who boycotted his first inauguration have signalled their intention to attend this time. There is no doubt the resistance to Donald Trump feels muted second time around. The word fascist has disappeared from political discourse as quickly as it appeared. The meeker tone gives the impression that Trump 2.0 will be more conventional, moderate and palatable than the first version. In fact the opposite is true. There is an epic disconnect between this normalisation and the absurdly abnormal future facing America and the world. The 78-year-olds shambolic hour-long press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Tuesday suggests we aint seen nothin yet. Trump made clear that he covets Greenland and the Panama Canal and did not rule out taking them by force. He reiterated his interest in turning Canada into a US state and promised to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, musing: What a beautiful name. Rambling about the January 6 insurrection that he instigated at the US Capitol, Trump said we have to find out about the involvement of both the FBI and Hezbollah (an Islamist movement founded by Iran during the middle of the 1975-90 Lebanese civil war). This was Trumps latest line of thinking on Jack Smith, the special counsel who brought criminal charges against him: They brought this moron out of the Hague. Hes a mean guy. Hes a mean, nasty guy. His picture was perfect cos you look at his picture, you say thats a bad guy. With his robe, his purple robe, and he executes people. He shouldnt be allowed to execute people because hell execute everybody. Hes a nutjob. The president-elect weighed in on dishwaters, gas heaters, washing machines, water faucets and other appliances: Its called rain. It comes down from heaven. And they want to do no water comes out of the shower. It goes drip, drip, drip, so what happens youre in the shower 10 times as long. Some of it was bleakly familiar to seasoned Trump watchers who have been forced to develop gallows humour for their own sanity. The windmills are driving the whales crazy, obviously, he remarked. But the now repeated threats to US allies mark a new and alarming departure. Trumps press conference coincided with a delegation of aides and advisers that included his son Donald Trump Jr visiting Greenland, a territory of Denmark. Asked whether he could assure the world that he would not use military or economic coercion to gain control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, Trump said: No, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. Suddenly the America first president who vowed peace through strength is sounding more like warmonger predecessors such as George W Bush. Such expansionism is music to the ears of Russian leader Vladimir Putin, whose invasion of Ukraine is based on the logic that borders are no longer fixed and territory belongs to the strongest. Is Trump bluffing? Is this just an elaborate ploy to look tough and gain leverage in negotiations over tariffs? Is it all a characteristic effort to throw out shiny objects that divert attention from more substantial topics? Robert Reich, a former labour secretary, tweeted on Tuesday: Get ready for four years of rambling and outrageous lies. But dont let the absurdity distract you from the real goal of Trump 2.0: the continued consolidation of wealth & power into the hands of oligarchs. They want you to be so outraged that you tune out. Do not. There is another possible motive. Trump, a former reality TV star who craves attention and is obsessed with ratings, may be feeling the pressure of second album syndrome. He knows the resistance is dampened, cable news ratings are down and many are feeling Trump fatigue with little appetite for a sequel. For a man who is all about spectacle, how do you top a first term that included accusing his predecessor of wiretapping, endorsing the accused child molester Roy Moore, telling the far-right Proud Boys to stand back and stand by, posting covfefe on social media in the middle of the night, lobbing paper towel rolls into a crowd in storm-ravaged Puerto Rico, suggesting bleach as a cure for Covid-19, altering a weather map with a Sharpie to cover up his mistaken hurricane prediction and much, much more? The answer is by going even more extreme, even more provocative, even more outrageous than last time. Tuesday was a wake-up call to the normalisers who are sleepwalking towards disaster. Scottish Labour Party leader Anas Sarwar has said his party will abstain in the forthcoming budget vote - Ken Jack/Getty Images Scottish Labours leader has been called spineless after confirming his MSPs will stand aside to allow the SNPs tax and spending plans to be approved by Holyrood. Anas Sarwar said his party would abstain in a forthcoming vote on the 2025/26 Scottish Budget, meaning his MSPs will neither vote for or against it. Labour abstaining would be enough to give John Swinneys minority Government the votes it needs to get the plans approved by the Scottish Parliament. Mr Swinneys administration has been in talks with the Liberal Democrats and Greens over a deal to get their support, but their votes would no longer be pivotal. Mr Sarwar has come under increasing pressure from the First Minister to back the Scottish Budget as it includes plans to reintroduce a smaller winter fuel payment to all pensioners and to scrap the two-child benefit cap. With the Holyrood election being held next year, Scottish Labour feared opposing such a populist Budget would lead to the party falling even further behind the SNP in the polls. Mr Sarwars announcement came the day after Mr Swinney argued that Holyroods opposition parties would be playing right into the hands of Elon Musk if they failed to vote for his governments spending plans. Craig Hoy, the shadow finance secretary, said: This is a spineless act from Anas Sarwar who has clearly caved to John Swinney. Labours leader is all talk and no action when it comes to standing up to the failing SNP. He and his party are part of the cosy Left-wing consensus at Holyrood which has repeatedly raised taxes and left our public services and businesses struggling. He added: Scottish Labour and its weak leadership are so disconnected from the Scottish people and communities that they are unwilling to vote against an SNP Budget that once again fails to do anything to address their failures over the last 18 years. The shadow finance secretary Craig Hoy claimed Scottish Labour had weak leadership MSPs are due to have their say on the Budget next month, with a final vote provisionally scheduled for Feb 25. The SNP has 62 MSPs out of 129, three short of a majority at Holyrood. However, Labours 22 MSPs abstaining would mean the SNPs tax and spending plans would pass even if all the other opposition parties voted against them. Mr Sarwar told BBC Radio Scotland: At this current stage, we will abstain from this budget, because this Budget is going to pass anyway. It has the votes of another political party, at least one other opposition political party. So we are not going to vote against this budget. We will abstain from this budget. But if the Scottish Government wanted us to support the budget, they should have set up a new direction. They didnt. Mr Sarwar said he wanted the extra 4.9 billion handed to the Scottish Government by Chancellor Rachel Reeves over the next two years to be game-changing. But he said it was clear that real change would have to come from the SNP being ousted in the 2026 Holyrood election. He added that Labour would have backed the Budget if it had scrapped the two-child benefit cap from this April, rather than waiting until 2026/27. However, SNP ministers need data from the Department for Work and Pensions before the change can be implemented. The Budget includes 3 million to build the required computer systems. Shona Robison, the SNP Finance Secretary, said: Only a few months ago, Anas Sarwars Scottish Labour MPs were queuing up to keep the two-child cap in place yet now he agrees it should be mitigated in Scotland as soon as possible. Mr Sarwar has said that Scotland needs change but he seems to have reflected over the holidays and decided that it is he who needs to change. She added: Labour have gone from calling for a new direction to seemingly having no direction. Shona Robison, SNP Finance Secretary, claimed Scottish Labour had gone from calling for a new direction to seemingly having no direction - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty The SNP pointed to a post on social media from Neil Findlay, a former Labour MSP and ally of Jeremy Corbyn who said: The harsh truth is Scottish Labour have no plan, no strategy and no policies. Ross Greer, the Scottish Greens finance spokesman, said his party had spent months negotiating to improve this budget, to increase action on the climate emergency and to lift more children out of poverty. He added: In contrast, Labour MSPs have thrown in the towel without even trying to secure any improvements. Sir Keir Starmer met with Sheikh Hasina for a second time in September 2022 when the Bangladeshi leader was in the UK for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II - BSS Investigators have demanded Tulip Siddiqs bank details in a move that will ratchet up the pressure on the embattled Treasury minister. Bangladeshs anti-money laundering agency has asked the countrys main banks to supply information on her accounts and transactions. In an official notice it has requested the financial records of Ms Siddiq and six of her family members including her mother, sister, and brother. The notice, seen by multiple media outlets, also demanded banking information for her aunt Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Bangladeshi dictator. Hasina, 77, is the sister of Ms Siddiqs mother Sheikh Rehana, and was the longest-serving prime minister of Bangladesh. She is now in India, having been ousted after 15 years in power last year. Since the fall of Hasina, Ms Siddiq has been facing questions over her ties to her aunt and has referred herself to the prime ministers ethics advisers over allegations surrounding her use of properties linked to her aunts supporters in London. The latest decision by the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit was seen as a potential precursor to a broader investigation into the family. Bangladeshs anti-corruption commission has begun an investigation into whether Ms Siddiq helped embezzle up to 3.9 billion from infrastructure projects. The Treasury minister, whose brief includes combating corruption, has denied the allegations. A spokesman for her said: No evidence has been presented for these allegations. Tulip has not been contacted by anyone on the matter and totally refutes the claims. It has also been revealed that Sir Keir Starmer met Hasina at least twice, including on a trip to meet the regime. The Prime Minister and three other members of his Cabinet have all previously met members of the government that was led by Hasina. Sir Keir is said to be close to Ms Siddiq, whose constituency neighbours his own, and previously met her aunt during a trip in 2016. Sir Keir and Lady Starmer with Tulip Siddiq (right) The seven-day trip to Dhaka and Sylhet, valued at 1,200, was organised by Labour Friends of Bangladesh, a group closely associated with Ms Siddiq. Sir Keir was pictured in Bangladeshi media alongside Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, the then foreign minister. Steve Reed, now the Environment Secretary, and Stephen Timms, now a minister for social security, were also in attendance. Bangladeshi media said that the MPs hoped the visit would strengthen bilateral relations in all sectors between Bangladesh and the UK, including parliamentary democracy, and that they also met Hasina. Claridges meeting While leader of the opposition, Sir Keir later met the Bangladesh prime minister in Claridges London in September 2022 when she was visiting for the funeral of Elizabeth II. Other Labour MPs to meet with members of the ousted regime include Shabana Mahmood, the justice secretary, who went on a visit paid for by Labour Friends of Bangladesh, valued at 830 in Nov 2017. According to the Parliamentary Register of Interests, this was to strengthen educational and cultural links between the UK and Bangladesh, and discuss the ongoing Rohingya situation with government ministers. Lucy Powell, the Leader of the House of Commons, went on the same trip, while at least three other Labour politicians have met with ministers in Hasinas former government. Conservative politicians including Rishi Sunak, then the prime minister, also met with the regime, with Mr Sunak pictured with Hasina at the G20 summit in 2023 and at another meeting earlier that year. On Monday, Ms Siddiq referred herself to the Prime Ministers ethics adviser over allegations surrounding her use of properties in London. 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. Links to London flats Sir Laurie Magnus, who advises Sir Keir 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 sister Azmina. The other property, in central London, was reportedly given to Ms Siddiq by a businessman linked to her aunts political party, the Awami League. 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 Hasina before she was ousted in August. The other property, in Hampstead, was also reportedly given to Ms Siddiqs family by an ally of her aunt. Moin Ghani, a Bangladeshi lawyer who has represented 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. Starmer still has confidence in Siddiq 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 a 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. Labour has been contacted for comment. Robert Jenrick says we have to be very careful about who is coming into Britain - Tayfun Salci Migrants from cultures with medieval attitudes to women should be blocked from coming to Britain, the Tories have said amid the ongoing row over child grooming gangs. Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, said some of those who had migrated to the UK in recent years had backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women and that we have to be very careful about who is coming into this country. His remarks were supported by Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, who has previously said that all cultures are not equally valid. The comments come as the Conservative Party scrambles to deal with the threat from Nigel Farages Reform UK and secure the support of Right-wing voters. Mr Farages party has been boosted by support from Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, whose social media posts about the grooming gangs scandal and criticism of Sir Keir Starmer for refusing to hold a national inquiry have thrown the issue back into the spotlight. Mrs Badenoch will pile pressure on Labour to hold a new national inquiry into grooming gangs by attempting to force a vote in the Commons on the issue on Wednesday, and has launched a petition backing the move. She is also demanding that foreign nationals found guilty of child sex abuse are deported. Medieval attitudes However, the plans to block migrants from some cultures from coming to the UK have already sparked a backlash within the Tory party, with one moderate, Conservative peer Lord Ahmad, calling on Mr Jenrick to reflect on his comments. At the weekend, Mr Jenrick suggested that Britons of Pakistani origin who took part in grooming gangs were people from alien cultures. He wrote: The scandal started with the onset of mass migration. Importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women, brought us here. Asked about the comments on Tuesday, the shadow justice secretary said the Tories could seek to limit immigration from such cultures. He said: We have seen millions of people enter the UK in recent years and some of them have backward, frankly medieval attitudes to women. GB News Asked if he was saying that the nations immigration policy should be changed to stop people with such attitudes from coming to the UK, Mr Jenrick told the BBC: I think that we have to be very careful about who is coming into this country, the scale and pace of that immigration so that we can have a much more successful integration policy than we have today. I have always said, and it is a point made by Kemi Badenoch, the leader of my party, that not all cultures are equal. The comments sparked a backlash, with the Liberal Democrats calling on Mrs Badenoch to sack Mr Jenrick for the divisive comments. Backlash over remarks Lord Ahmad urged the shadow justice secretary to reflect on some of his comments. He told the BBC Radio 4 World at One programme: Is he putting victims of these abhorrent crimes at the heart of the solutions that do exist or is he trying to play to a particular audience to incite particular thinking and particular views against a particular community? However, a spokesman for Mrs Badenoch said: Robert Jenrick did an excellent job this morning explaining the pressing need for a national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. The Liberal Democrats should spend less time worrying about tweets, and instead explain to the British people why they oppose an inquiry that would end the culture of cover-ups in our institutions and finally get justice for the victims. Mrs Badenoch wrote in a piece for The Telegraph in September that we need to demand that those who come here love this country and will maintain and uphold its traditions, not change them. She said: Culture is more than cuisine or clothes. Its also customs which may be at odds with British values. We cannot be naive and assume immigrants will automatically abandon ancestral ethnic hostilities at the border, or that all cultures are equally valid. They are not. PM refuses to hold inquiry Asked about Mr Jenricks comments, the Prime Ministers spokesman suggested that they were a distraction from the core issue of protecting children from sexual abuse. Sir Keir has refused to hold a new inquiry into grooming gangs, and on Monday accused Mrs Badenoch of climbing on a far-Right bandwagon by supporting one. On Wednesday the Tories will try to force a vote on the issue, by putting down an amendment to a government education Bill calling on the Prime Minister to convene such an inquiry. Labour will tell its MPs to vote against the amendment, because if passed it would force the whole legislation to collapse. On Tuesday night, the Conservative leader also launched a petition designed to pile pressure on the Government to hold a new national inquiry into the scandal. Mrs Badenoch said any new inquiry must consider the religious or racial motivations for these crimes. And she said it must identify those public servants who facilitated or ignored this abuse so they can be removed from office. Mrs Badenoch added: Any foreign national offenders involved in the abuse must be deported. National inquiry needed In a message to supporters, she said: Yesterday, the Prime Minister said that calling for a national inquiry into the torture and rape of countless vulnerable, white, working-class girls was a far-Right bandwagon. This is nonsense, and this smear tactic wont stop us asking difficult questions. A national inquiry is needed because previous inquiries we set up have not joined the dots. In too many cases police, politicians and local officials colluded to keep the rape gangs scandal under wraps. Some even cooperated with the gangs. The only way to expose those who turned a blind eye is to hold a full public inquiry. Schools Bill at risk Labour MPs will be whipped to vote against Wednesdays attempt to force the government to establish a national inquiry into grooming gangs by tacking an amendment to the second reading of the Children, Wellbeing and Schools Bill. Second reading is the first big stage a Bill has to clear on its passage to becoming law and it is when MPs vote on the broad principle of proposed legislation. Amendments to add sections or delete sections from the text of a Bill are not considered at second reading. That happens at later stages of scrutiny. A vote on a reasoned amendment can happen at second reading. However, reasoned amendments essentially set out reasons for rejecting a Bill and if they pass they stop the legislation in question from making any progress. Sir Keirs spokesman said that this was why the Government would vote against such an amendment. The mechanism for this amendment would involve the Opposition voting against the entire [Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill], he said. That means a vote against improved safeguarding measures for vulnerable children, that means a vote against putting more cash in working parents pockets by capping school uniform costs. The spokesman also repeated the Governments position that there was no need for a new inquiry, as the probe by Professor Alexis Jay which had covered similar ground was only eight years old. The shadow justice minister, Robert Jenrick, insisted he was right to say there had been a failure of integration in the UK. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian Conservative MPs have privately raised concerns about Robert Jenricks comments about British Pakistanis with the party leader, Kemi Badenoch. Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, has been accused of stoking community divisions to fuel his own leadership ambitions with his remarks about people from alien cultures. A Tory MP told the Guardian that colleagues had made representations to Badenoch about Jenricks language, which has drawn criticism from community groups. The Liberal Democrats said the Conservative leader should sack Jenrick after he stood by his claim that mass migration meant the UK had imported hundreds of thousands of people who possess medieval attitudes towards women. Jenrick was challenged repeatedly on Tuesday morning for having failed to act on the outcome of an inquiry into rape gangs while he was in the Home Office, despite now demanding one, and for rarely mentioning the issue in the Commons until this year. Badenoch had previously defended the shadow justice secretarys right to make the comments, which have caused private disquiet among some Conservative MPs. One senior Conservative MP and Badenoch leadership supporter said: Many in the Conservative party are worried that Jenrick is using the issue of grooming gangs for his own leadership ambitions. Painting a whole culture as alien is nothing short of xenophobic, and undermines the important issue of achieving justice for those poor girls who were let down by so many. He is busying toxifying the Conservative brand while [the Reform party leader] Nigel Farage is looking like the reasonable one. All because Kemi has failed to rein him in. One former Conservative colleague of Jenrick said he was poisoning the discourse which could damage a very pertinent and important cause. Another Tory MP described Jenricks morning interviews as a disgrace. However, a number of current Tory MPs said they agreed with Jenrick, saying he was doing his job by talking about perceived failures of integration. Related:High energy, high risk: Tories already wonder if Kemi Badenoch will last until the next election | Katy Balls On Tuesday, Jenrick said he was right to say there had been a failure of integration. What I have said is that millions of people have come into our country in recent times, but some of them are coming from countries and cultures that have backwards attitudes to women, Jenrick told Times Radio. And thats backed up by the evidence that we have seen from the Jay report [into child sexual exploitation] and the testimonies of the victims. Pakistani men are over-represented in those who are involved in the grooming gangs, and the evidence we have seen is that some of those have specifically preyed upon white, working-class girls because they viewed them as worthless. Prof Alexis Jays independent inquiry into child sexual abuse did not conclusively find there was an over-representation of Pakistani men, saying a lack of data meant it was impossible to know whether any particular ethnic group is over-represented as perpetrators of child sexual exploitation by networks. The Lib Dem deputy leader, Daisy Cooper, said: Robert Jenricks attempt to exploit this appalling scandal for his own political gain is completely shameless. He didnt lift a finger to help the victims when a minister, now hes jumping on the bandwagon and acting like a pound-shop Farage. Kemi Badenoch should sack him as shadow justice secretary and condemn his divisive comments, instead of letting him run a leadership campaign under her nose. A number of high-profile human rights campaigners also condemned Jenrick. The Labour peer Shami Chakrabarti said: Robert Jenrick isnt blowing a dog whistle but sounding a fog horn with his explosive mixture of race politics and sex abuse. Jenrick would have more credibility if he had any history of standing up against the abuse of women and girls or acting on the Jay report when in government. Shaista Gohir, the chief executive of Muslim Womens Network UK, said: Robert Jenricks views are against the very British values he claims to uphold. Given the popularity of the Reform party, it appears he is desperately trying to shamelessly bring attention to himself to gain enough support to become politically relevant again so he can become the next leader of the Conservative party. Nazir Afzal, the former chief crown prosecutor for north-west England who authorised the charging of the Rochdale gang, said: To label an entire group as an alien culture is to ignore the centuries of shared history, values, and contributions that we have made to the fabric of the United Kingdom. It is not culture that is foreign, but the ignorance that seeks to divide us. Speaking on Radio 4s Today programme, Jenrick was challenged on whether he was saying that Britain should bar immigration from certain countries. I think that it is very difficult to successfully integrate the very large numbers of people who we have had coming into our country in recent years. We should be open about that, he said. Asked if he was speaking specifically about Pakistan when he described a medieval attitude to women, he said: I think some people who come from that country do. Im not saying everybody. He added: Ive always said that point, made by Kemi Badenoch, the leader of my party, that not all cultures are equal. We should be very careful about who is coming into this country and the scale of immigration. Jenrick said he would not modify his language, in response to criticism by Boris Johnsons former adviser on communities and civil society, Samuel Kasamu, who called Jenricks comments highly divisive and added that they risked people getting killed. This is about young girls being systematically raped for decades, and youre asking me about disguising my language so as not to offend people. Im not going to tiptoe around this issue, Jenrick said. Donald Trump Jr in front of the statue of Hans Egede in Nuuk, Greenland, while on a private visit. Photograph: @DonaldJTrumpJr Donald Trump Jr touched down in Greenland on Tuesday, hours after his father reiterated his interest in taking control of the Arctic autonomous territory, pledging to make Greenland great again. After arriving in the Greenlandic capital in a Trump-branded plane, the US president-elects son told a waiting crowd in the Nuuk airport arrivals hall some wearing red Make America Great Again caps that he was very excited to be here. It was, he said, a little colder here than it is in Florida, adding that his father says hello to everyone in Greenland. Related: Trump lobs threats at Greenland, Panama and Canada should we take him seriously? Asked about his plans, he said he was visiting as a tourist, had no intention to meet politicians and declined to talk about US interest in Greenland, saying he was merely there to see a lot of the sights, talk to some people and have a good time. He was later pictured outside a controversial statue of Hans Egede, a Danish-Norwegian missionary who is seen as a symbol of Danish colonialism, and his entourage reportedly handed out make Greenland great again hats. Video footage appears to show Donald Trump Sr addressing a group over lunch during a call to his sons phone, saying: Were going to treat you well. Later, during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, the US president-elect reiterated his plan to obtain Greenland and the Panama canal, threatening very high tariffs and even military coercion on Denmark if it prevented the US from acquiring Greenland. He said he could not guarantee that economic or military coercion would not be needed. But I can say that we need them in terms of economic security, he added. Elon Musk also appears to support the idea, writing on X: If the Greenlandic people want to be part of the United States which I hope they do they are very welcome. Trump Jr said in a podcast, which aired on Monday, that he was not buying Greenland but that he was going on a very long, personal day trip. He added: Im hopping on Trump Force One and landing in Greenland tomorrow morning. Nevertheless, his arrival in the capital, Nuuk, prompted the Danish prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, to break her silence to say the autonomous territory was not for sale. Seen through the eyes of the Danish government, Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders, the Social Democrat told TV2. Describing the US as our absolute closest ally, she said we always want to work more closely with the Americans. But she called on everyone to respect that Greenlanders are a people, a population, adding: Only they can define their future. The Greenlandic prime minister, Mute Egede, later reiterated a similar sentiment, writing on Facebook: Let me repeat it Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders. Our future and fight for independence is our business. Danes, Americans and everyone else can have opinions, but we should not be caught up in the hysteria and pointing fingers at others. Because our future is ours and must be shaped by us. The visit is taking place against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Greenland and Denmark as the Trump administration prepares to take office. Greenland is a former Danish colony and remains part of the kingdom of Denmark, which continues to control its foreign and security policy. As well as its supply of multiple in-demand raw materials for green technology including 25 of the 34 that the EU needs amid melting Arctic ice and strategically positioned between the US and Russia, Greenland is viewed as increasingly important for defence and is emerging as a geopolitical battleground. The Danish King Frederik shocked some historians with a new year move to change the royal coat of arms to more prominently feature Greenland and the Faroe Islands, which was also seen as a rebuke to Trumps advances. A meeting between Egede and the king, scheduled to take place on Wednesday in Denmark, was cancelled on Monday without explanation. Greenland has since put it down to calendar gymnastics. Trump Jr has said he is visiting the vast island in a private capacity. Others in his group include the political activist Charlie Kirk, who cofounded the pro-Trump conservative organisation Turning Point USA. We want to meet people, the president-elects son said in his podcast, Triggered. They seem like a great bunch of people. The Greenlandic government said no meetings had been scheduled with government representatives. The Danish and Greenlandic governments have both said it is a private visit. Greenlands ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement: Greenland is open and those who wish to visit us are welcome. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark with a population of 57,000, has mineral, oil and natural gas reserves but slow development has meant the economy is reliant on fishing and subsidies from Denmark. Nuuk is closer to New York than it is to Copenhagen. Trump, who takes office on 20 January, said his son and multiple representatives were going to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump praised Greenland, describing it as an incredible place, and pledging to MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! The people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, he wrote. It comes after he recently said that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity. In his previous term as president, between 2017 and 2021, Trump also expressed interest in buying Greenland but was quickly dismissed by both Greenlandic and Danish authorities. Over recent months, tensions have escalated significantly between Greenland and Denmark. There is intense anger in Greenland over investigations into the forced contraceptive scandal of the 1960s and 70s, prompting the Greenlandic prime minister to accuse Denmark of genocide. There are also continuing protests in Copenhagen and Nuuk over the separation of Greenlandic children from their parents. Last week, Egede accelerated his argument for independence from Denmark, saying in his new year speech that he wanted Greenland to break free from the shackles of colonialism to shape its own future. He did not, however, mention the US. The visit by Trump Jr comes just months before Greenlands next parliamentary election in April, when Egede said the next election period must create major steps to creating the framework for Greenland as an independent state. According to a 2009 agreement with Denmark, Greenland must hold a successful referendum before declaring independence. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, said the idea of a US takeover should be firmly rejected. I dont want to be a pawn in Trumps hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country, she said. Attendees visit the Meta booth at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco on March 22, 2023. Jeff Chiu/AP Meta is eliminating fact-checkers in a move founder Mark Zuckerberg said will make free speech a priority on its social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp and align the multinational tech giant with a political tilt to the right with the recent election of Donald Trump. Zuckerberg said in a video post released Tuesday the complex systems initially developed to moderate content on these platforms make mistakes and have accounted for the unintentional censorship of millions of people. Weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes, Zuckerberg said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The fact checking systems, which Zuckerberg said have become too politically biased, will be replaced in the U.S. by community notes similar to X, a content filtering system in which users can add notes to posts for context, according to the X Help Center. Zuckerberg directly aligned the move to the November election of Donald Trump, which the Meta CEO called a cultural tipping point towards once again prioritizing speech. Decrying what he referred to as Europe's "ever increasing number of laws institutionalizing censorship" and other countries' restrictions around the world, Zuckerberg said that "the only way to push back on this global trend is with the support of the U.S. government." Zuckerberg's references to President-elect Trump incited opposing reactions on his Facebook page, with some seeing the changes as a win for free speech, and others vowing to delete their Meta accounts. In the five-minute video, the billionaire businessman also announced that Metas content moderating teams will move from California to Texas, where, he said, there is less concern about bias of our teams. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Some on X raised concerns over what kind of effect Meta's revised politically-driven policies may have on "non-partisan fact-checking organisations" that rely on funding from Zuckerberg's multinational technology giant. The obvious story to follow up on after this announcement by Zuckerberg is what happens now to many non-partisan fact-checking organisations around the world that do very good work in their respective regions and primarily rely on funding from Meta to survive. https://t.co/vMrX3EcjXw Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) January 7, 2025 X Inc. owner Elon Musk reposted comments praising Zuckerberg's announcement, with some likening the Meta CEO to Musk's own rally against similar restrictions on his social media platform. Woah. Zuck going full anti-censorship, following Elon and X's lead Based Zuck arc and vibe shift complete pic.twitter.com/bsC7LrYL0n Beff e/acc (@BasedBeffJezos) January 7, 2025 Metas changes and the Trump election Zuckerberg, in the video, repeatedly referred to the changes in Meta's filtering system as a return to more political content and mentioned the recent election as a catalyst for those changes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It feels like were in a new era, he said. Were bringing back civic content, he said. For a while, the community asked to see less politics because it was making people stressed. Removing fact checkers will allow for more political discourse on Meta platforms, said Zuckerberg, who singled out topics such as gender and immigration. Were going to simplify our content policies and get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse. What began as a movement to be more inclusive, Zuckerberg continued, has increasingly become a tool to censor opinions and people with different ideas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Meta, Zuckerberg continued, will work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more. In November, Zuckerberg was reported to have dined with the President-elect in Mar-a-Lago, Trump's primary residence when not in the White House. How Meta will change its policies Zuckerberg said Meta will change how it enforces its policies to reduce the mistakes that resulted in censorship. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Previously, Meta used filters to scan for any policy violations. The changes will put an emphasis on filtering for illegal and high severity violations relating to content involving drugs, or the exploitation of children. For lower severity violations the platforms will rely on users reporting an issue before taking action. Zuckerberg didn't clarify what would qualify as "lower severity violations." Catching 'less bad stuff' Zuckerberg acknowledged that changes will be a trade off. The new filtering systems will catch less bad stuff, but we will also reduce the number of innocent peoples posts and accounts that we accidentally take down. According to Zuckerberg, Meta will phase these changes into Facebook, Instagram and Threads while working to keep the communities friendly and positive. Move to Texas Metas Trust and Safety and Content Moderation Teams will move from its current base in blue-state California to red-state Texas. As we work to promote free expression, I think that will help build trust to do this work in places where there is less bias of our teams, Zuckerberg said. JetBlue aircraft at JFK airport in New York in 2013. Photograph: Fred Prouser/Reuters Two people have been found dead in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue plane that landed in Florida, the airline said. The grim discovery was made on Monday night. The bodies were found during a routine inspection after the plane had landed. The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation, said a statement from JetBlue.This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred. Related: US fines JetBlue $2m for chronically delayed flights in unprecedented act The plane landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood airport and had most recently flown from New Yorks John F Kennedy airport. The airline said on Tuesday that the bodies were discovered during a post-flight maintenance inspection after it operated as Flight 1801 from New York, according to CNN. JetBlue added that an investigation has been launched into the circumstances of how the two persons gained access the plane. The Broward county medical examiners office will perform autopsies to determine the causes of death of both individuals, Carey Codd, spokesperson for the Broward county sheriffs office, said. The identities of the two people have not been confirmed, but it is believed that they are Jamaicans. The deaths are the second such incident in recent weeks. Over the holiday period a dead body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines plane from Chicago after it landed in Hawaii. The airline said the wheel well of the Boeing 787-10 was only accessible from the outside the aircraft, and that it was unclear how or when the person accessed it. Stowing away in the wheel well of a plane is extremely risky due to the low oxygen levels and freezing temperatures at the altitudes in which planes fly. About 80% of people who hide in the wheel well or another external compartment of an aircraft die during a flight, an 2011 FAA report found. Ukrainian paratroopers used an armoured vehicle to try to crush Russian soldiers Credit: Ukrainian Air Assault Forces Ukrainian paratroopers used an armoured vehicle to try to crush Russian soldiers after claiming to have run out of ammunition during an attack in Kursk. A US-supplied Stryker infantry carrier with a top speed of 60mph was filmed by drones on Monday chasing Russian troops around a snow-covered field, crushing at least one under its wheels. Ukrainian troops reported that their 16-ton Stryker normally equipped with a top-mounted machine gun had no more ammunition, although one crew member used a rifle to fire at the Russians from its hatch. The paratroopers did not specify where the incident in Kursk occurred. On Sunday, Ukraine launched a counter-attack with tanks and infantry after months of deadlock in the Russian border region after an initial incursion months ago allowed Kyiv to capture swathes of land. It was not clear why Russian troops encountered the vehicle in the open. David Axe, a war correspondent and analyst, suggested that the Russian soldiers may have been separated from their comrades during the chaos of Sundays assault. Confused fighting That kind of confused fighting has characterised the battle for Kursk, Mr Axe wrote in Forbes magazine. He added that running over the defenceless Russian troops to death may have also been down to bloodlust. Informant, a pro-Russian military blog, said that Russian troops were unlikely to show mercy to the dwindling number of Ukrainian occupiers after the publication of the footage. Ukraines new advance in Kursk continued into Monday and Tuesday, with both sides claiming to have inflicted damage on the other. Ukrainian troops said that their 16-ton Stryker had no more ammunition - Andriy Zhyhaylo/Obozrevatel/Global Images Ukraine; Getty Ukraines general staff said on Tuesday that it was conducting new offensive operations and that it had carried out a high-precision strike on a Russian marine brigades command centre near the village of Belaya. Russias defence ministry claimed the enemy advance had been thwarted and that its main force had been destroyed near the village of Berdin, about 12 miles north-east of Sudzha, the main town in Kursk under Ukrainian control. An unverified video that circulated on social media on Tuesday appeared to show Russian troops in Kursk searching the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers lying dead in the snow after a recent clash. Rybar, a pro-Kremlin war blogger, said Russian forces had repelled Ukrainian attacks near Bolshoe Soldatskoe, about 17 miles north-east of Sudzha. The channel claimed that during the fresh offensive Ukraine suffered over 200 casualties, lost 35 pieces of equipment including tanks and had 14 soldiers taken prisoner. It also added that Russian forces had taken advantage of Ukraines offensive north of Sudzha to advance on Makhnovka, 2.5 miles south of the Ukrainian-held town. Analysts say Ukraines new Kursk offensive is relatively small in scale, but that Kyiv is trying to hold onto its foothold in Russia for as long as possible in order to use it as a bargaining chip for future negotiations with Moscow. Franz-Stefan Gady, a military analyst, said: Theres a likelihood that we havent seen the main thrust of this Ukrainian offensive operation just yet. We are essentially talking about platoon-sized, company-sized assaults with fairly limited gains thus far. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, said on Monday that Russia had suffered a total of 38,000 casualties in Kursk since Ukraine seized part of the region in August last year. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson in Washington on 7 January 2025 after announcing House would vote on Laken Riley Act. Photograph: Shawn Thew/EPA The US House of Representatives approved the Laken Riley Act on Tuesday, marking the first bill passage of the new Congress, as Donald Trump and fellow Republicans turn their attention to immigration after heavily campaigning on the issue in the November elections. The vote was 264 to 159, as 48 Democrats joined 216 Republicans in supporting the bill. It now goes to the Republican-controlled Senate, which is expected to consider the proposal in the coming days. The bill, named for a 22-year-old nursing student at the University of Georgia who was murdered by an undocumented immigrant last year, would require the Department of Homeland Security to detain undocumented immigrants charged with theft-related crimes. It would also allow state attorneys general to sue the federal government if they believe their states have been harmed by its failure to enforce immigration laws. Republican Mike Johnson, the newly re-elected speaker of the House, condemned most House Democrats for opposing the bill and accused them of ignoring the wishes of voters who delivered a victory for Trump in November. House Republicans heard the voices of those who wanted change and voted to pass the Laken Riley Act, Johnson said in a statement. We will always fight to protect Americans, and todays success is just the beginning of Republican efforts to undo the catastrophic damage caused by years of the Democrats failed leadership. Democrats framed the bill as a clear attempt to demonize immigrants that failed to address the underlying issues of the US immigration system. Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democrat of Maryland and the ranking member of the House judiciary committee, attacked Republicans over advancing a poorly crafted bill that would only make partisan hay out of other peoples tragedies. The murder of Laken Riley was an unspeakable, an appalling crime, a heinous act, and no parent, no family should ever have to bear such a calamity, Raskin said during the floor debate on Tuesday. But this bill fails to take any meaningful action to improve our broken immigration system and to prevent crimes like this from occurring again. The House passed the Laken Riley Act last year in a vote of 251 to 170, with 37 Democrats joining Republicans in backing the legislation. But the proposal went nowhere in the Senate, which was then controlled by Democrats. Republicans now hold the majority in the Senate. Senator Katie Britt, a Republican of Alabama, reintroduced the bill on Tuesday, arguing that US voters had delivered a verdict to act on immigration in the November elections. Congress has an obligation to Laken, her family, and to families in every corner of our country to do everything in our power to help prevent this type of tragedy from occurring again, Britt said in a statement. Thats why its imperative we pass the commonsense Laken Riley Act with all due haste. Sixty votes will be needed to advance the bill in the Senate, so Republicans will have to persuade eight members of the Democratic caucus to join them in supporting the proposal. At least one Senate Democrat, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, has already signed on as a co-sponsor of the bill. Laken Rileys story is a tragic reminder of whats at stake when our systems fail to protect people, Fetterman said in a statement. Immigration is what makes our country great. I support giving authorities the tools to prevent tragedies like this one while we work on comprehensive solutions to our broken system. The man accused of killing Riley, a Venezuelan named Jose Ibarra, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole in November. Starmer NHS Yesterday, an event unfolded that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. A self-identifying socialist prime minister stood before a press conference and unveiled plans for a new wave of private sector involvement and patient choice in the National Health Service. In the not-so-distant past, such a declaration would have provoked an uproar, with critics decrying it as a betrayal of the NHSs founding principles. Yet this time, it passed with barely a murmur of dissent. With the health service in such a dire state and the public expecting improvement, the focus is now on saving lives. Keir Starmer has, in his words, rejected ideology before patients, and taken an approach unburdened by dogma. Yes, the usual suspects on X were outraged. The Green Party have decried the move as backdoor privatisation. However, most major media outlets ignored these attacks. The BBC highlighted doubt from the British Medical Association about the ability to deliver the plan but none about the principle of the private sector being involved. The NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, warmly welcomed the initiatives. Even The Guardians editorial grudgingly accepted the use of private sector involvement to drive down waiting lists as long as it does not erode public healthcare. Suffice it to say, the Overton window the range of socially and politically acceptable policies has undeniably shifted. Few now believe the NHS is the envy of the world. There is widespread acceptance that an entirely state-organised top-down healthcare delivery system has failed to deliver for patients. Theres, of course, nothing particularly out of the ordinary about what Starmer is now proposing. Patients have notionally had the choice about where to seek treatment for the last two decades. But, as Starmer said, its madness that you can choose a holiday destination online but cannot pick where you get treated. The new plan to give patients this choice on the NHS app will make it much easier for them to exercise their options, ultimately helping drive up competitive pressures and patient care. The best hospitals will benefit from more funding, which is meant to follow patients, while poorer performers will see their patient numbers and funding drop and be forced to improve to attract them back. There will also be an additional 2.5 billion annual investment in the private sector to double elective activity, addressing one of the NHSs most pressing challenges reducing waiting times for routine procedures. Some hospitals, particularly in the private sector, have consistently demonstrated the ability to deliver significantly higher throughput. Private surgical centres frequently operate with a single-minded focus on elective procedures, enabling them to streamline processes, schedule operations back-to-back, and ensure quick patient turnaround. The radicalism of these reforms should not be exaggerated. They are a step towards choice and private sector involvement, not a leap. Britain is still far from implementing more radical reforms into an Australian-style mixed public-private system, Singapore health savings accounts, or a European social insurance model. Nevertheless, the new Government has given a lot to the NHS in its early months. They have concluded pay disputes with generous settlements, expecting no further strikes. They have also poured in billions more, funded through higher taxes on the rest of us. Now, it must deliver. Whatever it takes. Matthew Lesh is Country Manager at Freshwater Strategy and a Public Policy Fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs At a basic level, the price increase for coffee is about demand outstripping supply as consumption has grown globally over past decades. Photograph: chayathonwong/Getty Images/iStockphoto Will your daily cup of coffee get more expensive in 2025? One industry figure recently predicted the cost of a single cup could rocket to $10-$12 in the next year and some kind of rise is likely, experts say, after the wholesale price of beans hit a record high in December, with prices showing no indication of dipping any time soon. So whats behind the spike? And will a cup of coffee really go up by that much? Your single origins origin Most of the coffee Australians consume comes from Brazil and Vietnam, the worlds largest producers. Cafes tend to favour the arabica variety: it is commonly considered more flavoursome than robusta coffee, which is used for instant coffee products. Arabica is also more expensive than robusta, but taste aside, robusta still has a huge market share: in 1990-91, robusta accounted for 28% of global coffee production; in 2021-22, that share had increased to 44%. Australia is not the only area seeing price hikes. The United States, much of the European Union and New Zealand are also finding coffee more expensive. Last year, the price of coffee beans went up noticeably. On 10 December, the price per pound of arabica peaked at US$3.47 (AU$5.44 at the time) the highest it has been since 1977. The price of robusta almost doubled in 2024, in part due to retailers trying to source more affordable options to arabica. At the time of writing, the price for a pound of arabica was hovering around US$3.20 (AU$5.14). Heavy weather for suppliers At a basic level, the price increase is a consequence of demand outstripping supply. Coffee consumption has grown globally over past decades and the industry is struggling to keep up. One increasingly prevailing reason for that is the weather. Coffee plants require defined wet and dry seasons, but the climate crisis is upsetting weather patterns in coffee-growing regions, as it is everywhere else. Drought in high-altitude areas of Brazil and Vietnam last year resulted in a lower-than-expected yield, and theres no guarantee this year will be any easier. The global supply of coffee has consolidated into just a few countries, says Tania Humphrey, director of research and development at World Coffee Research, an industry-funded agricultural development association. And the consolidation of supply is increasing risk when a single country experiences an event, and that country is a big supplier, like Brazil, it really impacts the global supply. Supply chain woes Most coffee consumed in Australia is imported. Coffee is grown here mainly in New South Wales and Queensland but it makes up less than 1% of the market, and is more expensive, mainly due to labour costs. Prof Vinh Thai, a professor of logistics and supply chain management at RMIT, says in addition to the weather affecting overseas crops, there are also ongoing issues affecting the supply chain, particularly the costs of container freight. The price of transporting coffee beans in containers has been affected by several geopolitical factors in the past year, Thai says. Then, when the coffee bean is imported into Australia, sometimes we face our domestic supply chain issues. These issues, such as congestion at the ports or industrial action, can add to importation costs. The cost of labour and other local cost-of-living factors at the retail end also add to the price the consumer ends up paying. Whats to be done? The majority of the worlds coffee supply is hand-picked, produced by smallhold farmers in lower-income countries the people most likely to be affected first by geopolitical ructions or climate catastrophes. Both Thai and Humphrey say one of the keys to preventing coffee supply shortages is diversifying its origin: investing in the coffee industries in places like Indonesia, Kenya, and India, and making them sustainable. Thai says he does not expect the price of coffee beans to come down much in the next six months. It is not a simple matter. It needs action from every layer in the coffee supply chain, he says. Related: Giant colouring book: how money and paint mix in Melbournes street art scene Humphrey, though, sees reason for long-term optimism. Agricultural science can really help coffee farmers and the global coffee supply. We know it can be done. Its been done in every other crop. Its on the way for coffee, and its happening on a global scale, she says. So that provides me, certainly, with tremendous hope. Am I really going to be paying $10 for a flat white this year? Thats unlikely, but you can expect a small increase. Ned, proprietor of bustling inner-city Melbourne cafe Fiord, says prices will probably go up but eventually, and gradually. I honestly think its so marginal, and theres a lot of sensationalism about this price increase, but it wont be that dramatic that quick, Ned says. He says over the past four years hes had to increase prices per cup by about 5% every 18 months, but says its all relative to other costs, and expects this will be the same. Im not going to turn around one day and say, yeah, $10 a cup. Fire crews are rushing to protect properties in the wealthy neighbourhood - AP JONATHAN VIGLIOTTI Hollywood celebrities were among 30,000 residents told to flee their homes as wildfires driven by powerful winds and dry winter conditions threatened upscale Los Angeles neighbourhoods on Tuesday. More than 1,261 acres were burning in Pacific Palisades, an area between Malibu and Santa Monica, shuttering a key highway and blanketing the area with thick smoke. Golden Globe and Emmy-winning actor James Wood posted a series of videos showing fire engulfing a nearby home and flames lapping at the bottom of his balcony. We were blessed to have LA fire and police depts doing their jobs so well, Wood wrote on X, formerly Twitter. We are safe and out. There are several elementary schools in our neighbourhood and there was an enormous community effort to evacuate the children safely. Can not speak more highly of the LA fire and LAPD. Steve Guttenberg star of 1984 comedy Police Academy said he was trying to help to get friends out of the area, but the roads were jammed. He urged people who were abandoning their cars to leave their keys behind. If you leave your car... leave the key in there so a guy like me can move your car so that these fire trucks can get up there. Its really, really important, Guttenburg told a reporter on broadcaster KTLA. He said: I have friends up there and they cant evacuate - Im walking up there as far as I can moving cars. Darrin Hurwitz had been working from home when he saw what was a small fire in nearby bushes quickly spread. He said he saw as many as 20 homes on fire as he fled to his parents home in Calabasas after gathering precious family items and packing clothes for his children. Things were moving so quickly, Mr Hurwitz told the Los Angeles Times. Within a few minutes, there were multiple fires. A home in the Pacific Palisades goes up in flames - Etienne Laurent Will Adams, another resident, said embers flew into his wifes car as she tried to evacuate. She vacated her car and left it running, Mr Adams said, adding that she walked towards the ocean to seek refuge. Mr Adams, who was pictured outside his home as flames approached, said he had never witnessed anything like this in the 56 years hes lived in Palisades. The sky turned brown and then black as homes started burning, he said. The father of young children then heard loud popping and bangs like small explosions, which he said he believes were power transformers exploding. It is crazy, its everywhere, in all the nooks and crannies of the Palisades, he said, adding that he saw a home up in flames. Will Adams watches as flames from the Palisades Fire close in on his property - Ethan Swope Plumes of smoke rise above houses as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California - DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images Another local, who gave his name as Gary, told KTLA hot ashes were raining down on his community of Searidge. Ive seen this on TV before, and I never thought wind could affect fire like this, he said. There was smoke in the distance, and I was assured that it would not come over the hill... Five minutes later, its coming down the hill. Everyone panicked, thats when everybody made a run and went to go and pack their houses up. People rushed to their cars as the fire advances in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood - AP Photo/Etienne Laurent Firefighters attended the scenes as the fire spread through the Lod Angeles suburbs - DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images At least two homes had caught fire, with footage from the scene showing flames roaring up the hillsides and palm trees ablaze. Several people were carrying pets as they walked down streets choked with smoke. In one clip shared on social media, CBS reporter Jonathan Vigliotti screams come on guys, we got to go! as his camera crew scramble to escape the flames. Devastating situation in Pacific Palisades. Homes are burning and the wind is getting stronger. Flames are burning in a residential area. This is Shadow Mountain Drive. #PalisadesFire pic.twitter.com/dXWRKMEwxb Matthew Seedorff (@MattSeedorff) January 7, 2025 Joe Biden, the US president, was in Los Angeles on Tuesday, where he had been expected to announce the creation of two new national monuments. But the announcement was cancelled in the strong winds. California Governor Gavin Newsom was in southern California to attend the monument ceremony, but made a detour to the mountains to see firsthand the impact of these swirling winds and the embers. Mr Newsom said he found not a few many structures already destroyed and warned resident that by no stretch of the imagination are we out of the woods. Jennifer Lopez film premiere cancelled Among the 13,000 buildings under threat was the Palisades Charter High School, where officials confirmed baseball fields and tennis courts were on fire. The grounds of the Getty Villa Museum had also caught fire but the collection remained safe, museum staff said. Meanwhile, the Hollywood premiere of Unstoppable starring Jennifer Lopez was also cancelled as the fire spread. The area is home to many celebrities - EPA The screening featuring the biopic of US wrestler Anthony Robles who won a national championship with one leg was axed hours before it was due to take place. The fire had erupted mid-morning and swelled quickly. Soon, 200 firefighters were deployed to battle the blaze, including from the air. Evacuation warnings were in place as the fire twisted and turned in the wind. Red flag alerts indicating the highest level of danger were expected to remain in place until Thursday evening, with weather forecasters warning the worst may be yet to come. The worst is yet to come A wind-storm was predicted to last for several days and produce isolated gusts that could reach 100 mph in the mountains. The fire is being fueled by a combination of strong winds and surrounding topography, which is making it extremely challenging for our personnel that are assigned to this incident, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said. Wildfires are an expected part of life on the US west coast and play a vital role in the natural cycle. But scientists say human-caused climate change is altering weather patterns, making droughts longer and more intense, which creates the conditions for faster and more dangerous fires. Flames reached the edge of Will Adamss property - Ethan Swope Reports suggest the area impacted by the latest wildfires had not had more than a drop of rain since last May. The dry conditions, coupled with a windstorm forecasters said could be the worst in a decade, have made conditions particularly dangerous. The so-called Santa Ana winds that are sweeping across Southern California are triggered by changing pressures and can tear over mountain ridges. While they are most common in autumn they can happen at any time. Erik Scott, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department, said the fire was rapidly spreading due to the significant winds. Burning embers could fly in any direction, Mr Scott warned residents. They can carry up to a mile, he said. A number of NHS trusts in England have declared critical incidents amid exceptionally high demands on emergency departments. One trust said it is seeing high numbers of older patients with respiratory problems exacerbated by the cold weather. Experts said this flu season is the straw that is breaking the camels back when it comes to urgent care. Due to sustained pressures at our Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals, we have declared a critical incident. Our emergency departments are facing extremely high attendance levels. Non-life-threatening conditions will result in long waits. pic.twitter.com/CBBUJyEHV9 Hampshire Hospitals (@HHFTnhs) January 7, 2025 Non-urgent patients have been warned they will face long waits in A&E and have been urged to consider other options, such as contacting their GP, visiting a pharmacy or calling NHS 111. Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust declared critical incidents on Tuesday morning, followed by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust on Tuesday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Royal Liverpool University Hospital remains in critical incident following an announcement by NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group on Monday evening. The longest time one patient waited to be admitted to a ward at the hospital was 50 hours, it is understood. Critical incidents can be declared when health and care services are so busy that special measures are needed to restore normal operations and keep patients safe. Margaret Garbett, chief nurse at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, said its situation is down to extreme pressures across services. This significant and sustained pressure is due in part to exceptional numbers of patients with flu requiring admission to hospital, this has now reached 311 inpatients and measures including mask-wearing in all departments is also being introduced, she added. Despite expanding capacity in our wards and in our emergency departments, A&E remains overcrowded with extended waits to be seen. In a series of posts on X, formerly Twitter, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: Due to sustained pressures at our Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals, we have declared a critical incident. Our emergency departments are facing extremely high attendance levels. Non-life-threatening conditions will result in long waits. A statement on the trusts website added: This decision has not been taken lightly; however, beds across both hospitals are full and attendance at our emergency departments is extremely high, which means there is currently no capacity to admit further patients needing our care. It urged people to consider other options for non-urgent medical care, such as calling NHS 111, contacting their GP, or going to a pharmacy or urgent treatment centre. University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust said it declared a critical incident due to significant and rising demand for hospital care. A statement on the trusts website revealed more than 300 people attended Derriford Hospital as emergencies on Monday, with almost 200 of those admitted for care as inpatients. We are particularly seeing high numbers of older patients with respiratory problems exacerbated by the cold weather, it added. Our emergency department is currently very full and if you do not have an emergency or life-threatening condition, you may be redirected to other healthcare services. NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group placed the Royal Liverpool University Hospital in a critical incident on Monday. A spokesperson said: Given the exceptionally high demands on our emergency department, especially with flu and respiratory illnesses, and the number of patients we have taken this action to support the safe care and treatment of our patients, which is our absolute priority. We are working with partner organisations to ensure those that are medically fit can leave hospital safely and at the earliest opportunity. Elsewhere, a critical incident declared by NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly on Friday continues. Last week, NHS data revealed the number of people in hospital with flu in England was more than four times the level it was a month ago, with officials warning cases are rising at a very concerning rate. Dr Adrian Boyle, president of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, told the PA news agency that this flu season is the straw that is breaking the camels back. This flu season is not an outlier, but the problem is our emergency care system is so overwhelmed and fragile that a normal flu season which is what weve got at the moment is creating severe operational difficulties, he said. (PA Graphics) And it would be a mistake to think that this is solely a result of winter viruses. We have been chronically overloaded and overwhelmed for a number of years. It is a significant flu outbreak, but the problem is theres just no capacity to deal with it. So it is really a straw that is breaking the camels back. He added: Its important in terms of public safety that people seek help in the usual way. If they think theyre having an emergency, they should call 999. Likewise, they should try and contact their GP, or NHS 111. People will be seen but they may have long delays, either to be seen or if they need to be admitted, but we will try and do our absolute best to look after people. East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust also declared a critical incident on Monday evening. Our Emergency Departments are extremely busy. As ever, the NHS is here for you and we urge anyone with health concerns to continue to come forward for care. Please help us to help you by accessing the right NHS care you need you can do this by calling NHS 111 or visiting pic.twitter.com/Z9rvyNnQnv Leeds Teaching Hospitals (@LeedsHospitals) January 7, 2025 Elsewhere, a number of trusts posted on X to warn that their emergency departments were very busy, including Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust. Meanwhile hospitals in Lincolnshire have urged people in the county to avoid travel where possible. The Northern Ireland tourism sector risks returning to pre-peace agreement visitor patterns if the region is not exempted from the UKs new visa waiver scheme, a Stormont minister has warned. Economy minister Conor Murphy said this summers Open Championship golf tournament in Portrush could be one of the first high-profile events to suffer due to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement, with international visitors to the island opting not to travel north to take in the sporting showpiece. Mr Murphy described the scheme as a real kick in the teeth for the local tourism sector, claiming it will act as a bureaucratic and financial disincentive for overseas tourists considering a visit to Northern Ireland. As of Wednesday, all non-European visitors to the UK who do not have residency rights and who do not require a visa will instead need to purchase an ETA in advance. Conor Murphy in his office at Parliament Buildings in Belfast (David Young/PA). From April 2, European visitors will also need the digital travel permission, which costs 10 and is linked to a travellers passport. The initial introduction of the ETA last year applied only to travellers from the Gulf states. Irish citizens travelling into Northern Ireland do not require an ETA because they are entitled to move freely in the UK under the Common Travel Area arrangements, and non-Irish citizens who are resident in Ireland are being granted an exemption under the visa waiver scheme. Tourism businesses in Northern Ireland have been warning for more than two years about the potential consequences of the post-Brexit scheme, highlighting that 70% of international visitors to the region travel across its land border having arrived in the Republic of Ireland first. They fear that individual travellers and tour companies organising trips to the island of Ireland will decide against taking in the region when they learn of the need to apply for and pay for an ETA. Tourism promotion bodies Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland have also expressed concern about the impact on the sector, as has the Irish Government. The ETA will have direct consequences for tourism in the Republic of Ireland too, as currently international visitors passing through Northern Ireland on a trip from Dublin to Donegal in the north west of the island would technically need an ETA to transit through the region. Mr Murphy reiterated his concerns in advance of the January 8 rollout. The concerns that we are articulating are ones that have been raised with us by people in the tourism industry, he told the PA news agency. The minister said international tour operators have already told his department that they will now have to look at potentially removing Northern Ireland from their all-island itineraries. He also pointed to research by Tourism Ireland on ETAs that, he said, showed that one in five US tourists will now reconsider coming to Northern Ireland and, when the full scheme is implemented in April, one in four Europeans will think twice about visiting the region. He said the scheme endangered the growth experienced by the Northern Ireland tourism industry since the 1998 peace deal. Pre-Good Friday Agreement and pre our tourism growth numbers, a lot of people were visiting the island of Ireland, but they werent coming north of the border, he said. The danger is that we revert back to that pattern again, that people just dont come north of the border because theres that additional level of bureaucracy. Mr Murphy insisted that the ETA scheme would not solve the UKs wider problems with the illegal immigration trade. This is a consequence of Brexit and an attempt to show some action in relation to immigration, but its not actually going to fix it, and were going to be collateral damage in relation to that, he said. The minister is lobbying for tourists travelling to Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland to be exempted from the ETA scheme. In lieu of a full exemption, he said a limited exemption that covered seven-day stays could help to address the issue. He highlighted that French school groups visiting the UK are to be granted an exemption, as he called for similar flexibility to be demonstrated to the issues facing Northern Ireland. Mr Murphy said the situation in the region was unique due to the land border with the Republic of Ireland and because there are no direct US flights into Belfasts airports. We will continue to press back and hope that there will be some reconsideration of it, he said. But I fear that its going to have a damaging effect this summer, and particularly with an event like The Open that is coming here in the summertime. Thats such a huge opportunity, not just for the North Coast, but for right across the north and across the island because the business that will attract will be right across the island (but) we will end up starting to see some damage as a consequence of this. A UK Government spokesperson said: ETAs will deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year. The spokesperson said the Government was committed to working closely with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the ETA requirement was communicated effectively and to mitigate against it being seen as a barrier to cross-border tourism on the island of Ireland. The Oberoi Zahra operates a three-night round-trip cruise from Aswan to Luxor Whether its exploring off-the-beaten-track temples and villages along the Mekong, sailing Norways fjords in search of the aurora borealis, or taking the family on a Disney cruise, there is almost certainly a cruise out there for you. But dont leave it too long to book. Ambassador Cruise Line sails from eight ports around the UK to destinations including Norway and the Canaries. Simon Weeks, chief revenue officer, says that while there will always be demand for last-minute deals, planning is particularly beneficial for no-fly cruises. If youre contemplating a no-fly cruise, capacity will be particularly tight at certain times of the year, he explains. Because of strong demand, we have launched our 2026/27 season five months earlier than in previous years. Whether its river or ocean cruising, some cabins are always more popular than others. Among the first to sell are balcony and family rooms. Balcony cabins across the Marella Cruises fleet are the most popular, says a representative from Tui. Most river ships hold between 120 and 170 passengers and suites get snapped up quickly. According to Andy Hawke, product manager at Fred Olsen Holidays, there has been a significant rise in demand for river cruises to long-haul destinations, particularly Asia and the US. Theres also a growing appetite for spending more time in a destination, with many extending their holidays to visit highlights such as Graceland in the US, or Cambodias Angkor Wat or opting for back-to-back cruises like our new Kerala and Brahmaputra combination. Cruise regulars may advocate booking during the so-called Wave period when many cruise companies introduce offers such as onboard spending credit, fare reductions, free drinks packages, low deposits, flight savings, free shore excursions and discounts on pre- and post-cruise extensions. Wave offers are usually announced in early January and can be taken advantage of until March or early April. So act quickly and you could be sailing the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean in just a few weeks time. 10 sure-to-be-popular cruises for 2025 Sail the Lesser Antilles with celebrity chef Ben Robinson Broad sweeps of sand, cerulean reef-fringed water and Caribbean-island vibes sounds like the perfect cure for the post-Christmas blues and joining this cruise around the Lesser Antilles is celebrity chef Ben Robinson. He served an apprenticeship at three-Michelin star restaurant The Fat Duck before going on to star in Bravos Below Deck, Below Deck Mediterranean and spin-off Galley Talk. Celebrity chef Ben Robinson served an apprenticeship at three-Michelin star restaurant The Fat Duck - NBCUniversal The eight-day sailing on the stylish Emerald Azzurra departs from San Juan in Puerto Rico, before island hopping to Iles des Saints, the US and British Virgin Islands, St Barths and St Kitts and St Johns in Antigua. Highlights include a visit to charming Deshaies on Guadeloupe (the scenic star of BBC Ones popular crime series Death in Paradise), a trip to the pink-sand beaches of Barbuda and a snorkelling trip around the legendary Norman Island in the British Virgin Islands. Guests will also learn how to recreate one of Robinsons creations at an interactive cooking demo and enjoy a signature multi-course dinner in the yachts dining room, La Cucina. Book it A seven-night Hidden Charms of the Caribbean cruise starts from 6,020pp including flights, transfers, Wi-Fi and some excursions, departing on January 25, 2025 (0161 516 8437; emeraldcruises.co.uk). Witness the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt Tranquil, scenic and culturally immersive, the Nile is without doubt the best way to experience ancient Egypts pharaonic temples, royal tombs and hieroglyphic chambers. Among the mightiest of them all is Abu Simbel, which was carved from a sandstone mountain by command of the warrior king Ramses II. Be a sun worshipper and visit the Great Temple of Abu Simbel during the festival - Alamy Stock Photo The temple is guarded by four colossal 20m-high figures made in the kings image. Twice a year an alignment of the sun and the temples inner sanctum illuminates statues of Ramses, the sun gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty and part of the statue of the god, Ptah. Passengers on board the luxurious ship the Oberoi Zahra can visit on February 22 as part of an exclusive sunrise tour. The recently refurbished vessel has new suites with hot tubs and private terraces. Before joining the cruise in Aswan, consider spending a few days in Cairo where the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum has opened the first galleries at its new location near the pyramids in Giza. Book it A three-night round-trip cruise from Aswan to Luxor, departing on February 22, 2025 costs from 1,668 per cabin excluding flights. The Abu Simbel Sun Festival excursion costs 201 and requires a pre-cruise night in Aswan (00 20 65 346 1040; oberoihotels.com). See the northern lights and become a citizen scientist One of the best ways to experience the aurora borealis is on a scenic cruise along Norways coast. With the sun approaching a new solar maximum phase, theres a good chance of witnessing some aurora magic this year. This no-fly itinerary spends two weeks in Norway where the ship, Ambience, sails as far north as Alta, deep inside the Arctic Circle. Passengers can visit fishing villages and picturesque fjord-side hamlets and spend time in the cities of Bergen, Troms and Alesund. Trip the lights fantastic in Norway and see the aurora borealis this year In Norways alluring Lofoten archipelago, Ambience will dock at the harbour town of Leknes, which is framed by soaring snow-tipped mountains. In Alta, meanwhile, there is an opportunity to see Unesco-listed petroglyphs and rock paintings. Guest speakers Clive Harvey and Stephen Garcia will be on board along with two ocean conservationists from the marine charity Orca. Join them on deck to learn how scientific data is gathered and to look out for whales, dolphins and porpoises. Book it A 17-night Norways Land of the Northern Lights cruise costs from 1,439pp, departing round-trip from Tilbury on March 20, 2025 (0808 296 7447; ambassadorcruiseline.com). Scottish highs on the Caledonian Canal There is so much choice when it comes to cruise destinations that its easy to overlook the scenery, culture and wildlife on offer at home. Scotlands network of navigable waterways and remote offshore islands are perfect cruise territory for smaller ships. This itinerary visits the rugged islands of Mull and Iona before moving to the Caledonian Canal. The 60-mile-long Thomas Telford-designed canal bisects Scotlands Great Glen and passengers can admire brooding Ben Nevis and ascend a series of eight locks known as Neptunes Staircase while on board. There are excursions to the site of the Battle of Culloden, fought in 1746 near Inverness, and to picturesque Gairlochy for views over pretty Loch Shiel from the Glenfinnan Monument. The 60-mile-long Thomas Telford-designed Caledonian Canal bisects Scotlands Great Glen The 36-passenger Lord of the Highlands ship sails the length of Loch Ness to approach Inverness, and passengers can also look forward to fine dining in the elegant Caledonian restaurant and a nightly wee dram in the cosy Panorama Lounge. Book it A six-night Call of Culloden cruise from Oban to Inverness costs from 3,700pp including Wi-Fi, tips, excursions and drinks, departing on April 11 (01756 704704; hebridean.co.uk). Festival season on the Mississippi Spring is festival season in New Orleans. As well as being one of the prettiest times to visit, its also the last of the cooler months and hence still pleasant to sit out on deck and watch the scenery roll by. Passengers can delve into the USs literary and Civil War history, get an insight into Cajun heritage, tour antebellum villas and explore the blues capital Memphis. On board there are views of the lush wetlands, birds and fertile farmlands of the Lower Mississippi from the balcony rooms, restaurants and Explorers Lounge and Bar. This departure coincides with the second weekend of Jazz Fest (May 2-5, 2025) with a line-up that includes international stars as well as local favourites such as Trombone Shorty. Book it A seven-night Mississippi Delta Explorer cruise from New Orleans to Memphis costs from 5,595pp including flights. Departs May 3, 2025 (0800 319 66 60; viking.com). Summer holiday cruising Uniworld is one of the few river cruise lines to cater specifically for families during the summer holidays. This fun Rhine holiday includes a visit to Speyers Technik Museum (think submarines, a space shuttle, vintage cars and a Boeing 737), a cycle along the river towards the castles of Stolzenfels and Lahneck and a gargoyles-and-chocolate tour in the riverside city of Cologne. Younger children can take a storybook tour of the half-timbered village of Kaysersberg and try slices of Gugelhupf, a popular Alsatian cake. Plus, there are child-friendly menus on board the ship, dessert-making classes with the pastry chef, movie nights, a games room and dedicated family hosts to oversee the childcare. Book it A seven-night Castles on the Rhine Generations cruise costs from 4,099pp per person departing on July 31, 2025. Includes flights, drinks including champagne and unlimited drinks for children (0808 168 9110; uniworld.com). Disneys new sailing Disney Cruise Lines ship Fantasy will sail from Southampton for the first time this year, in time for the school holidays. For younger cruisers, Disney ships are a whirlwind of activities and experiences but there are also quiet areas, adult-only restaurants and a luxurious spa for pampering. Family fun awaits on board Disney Cruise Lines ship Fantasy - Steven Diaz There are excursions to Santiago de Compostela and Galicia in Spain and a walking and tapas tour of La Coruna. On board, youngsters can enjoy character breakfasts, experience real-time interaction with Crush the sea turtle via giant screens at the Animators Palace restaurant and careen through the ship in the transparent AquaDuck water slide. The Royal Court restaurant is inspired by Disney Princess films including Cinderella, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast. If parents fancy a night off there are adult-only restaurants and hosts to take care of the children. Sounds like a win-win for everyone. Book it Five nights on board Disney Fantasy calling at Vigo and La Coruna in Spain costs from 1,308pp, departing round-trip from Southampton on August 5, 2025 (0800 169 0742; disneycruise.disney.go.com). Grand Prix on the river Heres a long-haul adventure you wont forget in a hurry. The 21-night holiday kicks off in Singapore with tickets to the citys night-time Grand Prix before embarking on an off-the-beaten-track cruise on the remote Red River in Vietnam. Singapores Marina Bay Street Circuit was the first night-time race in the sports history and this three-day F1 extravaganza includes access to all the practice sessions and qualifying races as well as the race-day seats. From Singapore, passengers fly to Hanoi for five nights before joining the intimate teak-and-brass Angkor Pandaw on the Red River. Excursions take passengers to temples and pagodas, riverside villages, remote mountain communities and the Ba Vi National Park. The 10-night cruise sails as far as is navigable along the Red River delta before turning into the Da River tributary. Book it A 21-night Singapore F1 Grand Prix and Halong Bay and The Red River holiday costs from 8,249pp including international and internal flights, the Grand Prix ticket and four hotel nights in Singapore and five in Hanoi, with breakfast. Departs Oct 1, 2025 (0800 988 3369; fredholidays.co.uk). Celebrate Christmas and New Year in style Cunards newest ship, Queen Anne, sets sail from Southampton on December 21 for mainland Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands and arrives back in the UK on January 4, 2026. If youre the type that likes to trade in Christmas chores for warmer climes this festive cruise could be the gift that keeps on giving. Explore the atmospheric Spanish port city of Cadiz - Moment RF Christmas Eve is spent in Cadiz, with an optional excursion to Seville, and Christmas Day will bring carols around the Grand Lobbys bauble-decked tree, Champagne toasts and roast Norfolk turkey with all the trimmings. On New Years Eve, Queen Anne will dock in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. The celebrations will include a fabulous ball, the famous countdown featuring a balloon drop, then more toasting to welcome in 2026. The Queen Anne ship has a theatre and a glamourous show bar, stylish indoor and outdoor pools, the lines first Japanese restaurant and age-specific childrens clubs. Book it A 14-night Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote) Celebration cruise round-trip from Southampton on December 21, 2025, costs from 2,559pp (0344 338 8641; cunard.com). Head south for a once-in-a-lifetime trip This epic trip on a refurbished Dutch oceanographic research vessel visits the Falkland Islands and South Georgia before setting sail for the mountains, snowy islands and ice-speckled bays of the Antarctic Peninsula. Located north-east of the peninsula, South Georgia is a haven for yellow-necked king penguins, populations of grey-headed and wandering albatross and several species of petrel. The Falklands is also home to penguins, as well as vast colonies of seabirds. South Georgia has a large population of yellow-necked king penguins - E+ Before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, the 108-passenger MV Plancius, named after Dutch cartographer and astronomer Petrus Plancius, calls at Orcadas station, an Argentine base on Laurie Island in the South Orkney islands, where researchers share their glacier-covered terrain with penguins and fur seals. The final four days of the cruise are spent in the mesmerising Antarctic Peninsula. In spring, as the so-called White Continent begins to thaw, icebergs, ice floes and sea ice are at their most impressive, all of which can be seen from an observation lounge and bar. The curious-minded can also find out more about the area in the on-board library and lecture theatre. The cruise operator, Responsible Travel, supports wildlife organisations including Save the Albatross, Wader Quest and the South Georgia Habitat Restoration Project. Book it A 21-day Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica cruise round-trip from Ushuaia costs from 11,799pp (single-sex quad-share) or 13,999pp (twin-share) departing on November 27, 2025 (01273 823 700; responsibletravel.com). Return flights to Buenos Aires from 1,249pp (ba.com). 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. Two people in Japan have died and seven others had to be taken to hospitals after choking on mochi, a sweet rice cake that can prove difficult to swallow if not thoroughly chewed. In just the first three days of the new year, nine people between the ages of 73 and 84 were taken to hospitals in the metro Tokyo area after they choked on mochi, Japan Today and Nippon TV reported, citing the Tokyo Fire Department. Of those, two died, according to the outlets, per Tokyo Fire. The fire department told the Japanese outlets that one of those who died was a man in his 70s who choked on mochi while at his home in Itabashi City just after 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 1. The second was a man in his 80s who lived in Nerima City, Japan Today reported, per Tokyo Fire. According to a survey conducted by Tokyo Fire, 368 people were rushed to the hospital after choking on mochi between 2019 and 2023, with about 90% of them people over 65 years old, Nippon TV reported. Over the past five years, the month with the most emergency transports was January, with 142 people, followed by December with 43 people, the outlet said, per the survey. Tokyo Fire officials advised people to cut mochi into small and easy-to-eat pieces, chew it slowly before swallowing and moisten their throats with tea or soup before consuming to aid digestion, Nippon TV and Japan Today said. Pictured are balls of mochi. What is Mochi? Mochi is a "squishy, elastic and creamy" rice treat that is typically enjoyed around the new year, according to Bon Appetit Magazine. The Japanese staple is made from pounded and molded rice dough, and it comes in a variety of colors and flavors including matcha, chocolate, mango and strawberry, Bon Appetit says, adding that the dish has a "slightly sticky, delightfully chewy quality about them." Emily Anderson, a curator at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, California, told "CBS Sunday Morning" last month that eating mochi is a huge tradition on New Year's Day, which is the "most important holiday in Japan." "Eating mochi is a really important part of the most important family-oriented day," she said. Is mochi popular in the US? Mochi came to the U.S. when Japanese laborers arrived in the country in the 1800s and brought their foods and traditions with them, according to "CBS Sunday Morning." "For a lot of Japanese Americans, the actual making of mochi is a way of reclaiming pride and appreciation for who they are," Anderson said. During World War II, when more than 120,000 people of Japanese descent were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated in camps, there was still mochi for the new year, "CBS Sunday Morning" reported. Anderson said during a "time when they've lost everything" and when they "feel abandoned by their own country," the Japanese people trapped in these camps fought back and said: "I know we can't get much from you, but this much we're going to demand of you, bring us our mochi rice. We need this for our new year." While many people in the U.S. Japanese American and otherwise enjoy the sweet treat, mochi still has a ways to go before becoming a mainstay dish in the States. According to market research firm Datassential, in 2022, mochi was found on less than 2% of U.S. restaurant menus, and about 29% of American consumers have tried it, Nation's Restaurant News reported. It has gained more popularity in recent years, with some versions selling mochi in Asian supermarkets and even Whole Foods, among others. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2 die, 7 taken to hospitals after choking on mochi treats in Japan The American GFS weather forecast model, shown here, depicts a wintry mess hundreds of miles north of Houston on Thursday afternoon. Snow, heavy at times, will be possible closer to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. WeatherBELL Greater Houston is waking up to freezing temperatures again on Tuesday. It's a little bit colder this morning compared to where #Houston started Sunday morning. Most of us are sitting 35 to 45 degrees colder. The full @HoustonChron forecast can be found here: https://t.co/aew81IXQji pic.twitter.com/VDsPS4JuMt Justin Ballard (@JustinBallardWx) January 6, 2025 For those who dont enjoy cold weather, perhaps itll help to know Houston isnt alone. Temperatures across much of the Lone Star State are deep into the 20s or colder. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bitterly cold temperatures from Amarillo to Dallas will set the stage for what promises to be a significant winter storm in North Texas. Lets look at the chances of Houston getting snow, sleet, or freezing rain. Another freezing morning in Houston The freezing air temperatures Tuesday morning were worsened by wind chill readings in the mid-20s. Before walking your four-legged fur babies, be sure to dress warmly, especially if they like to sniff every blade of grass before doing their business. Shown here are forecast lows, many below freezing, in Southeast Texas early Tuesday, according to the National Blend of Models. WeatherBELL Despite abundant sunshine, the day stays quite chilly as afternoon highs likely fall shy of 50 degrees. Advertisement Article continues below this ad HOW COLD IS IT? : See how far below normal temperatures are at your home using our interactive temperature tracker. Wednesday morning temperatures will be slightly warmer, with most of Greater Houston staying above freezing. But communities farther north of Houston, like Conroe or The Woodlands, may still experience temps at the freezing mark of 32 degrees or even colder early Wednesday. Increasing cloudiness will result in one of the coldest days this week, with afternoon temperatures on Wednesday likely not exceeding 42 degrees. Winter storm in Texas Clouds increase by Wednesday locally as a coastal system of low atmospheric pressure develops along the Texas Gulf Coast, with spotty rain showers possible in Houston by early Thursday. Subfreezing temperatures along Interstate 20 in North Texas could allow freezing rain, sleet and snow to fall. Snowfall amounts could be especially heavy west of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, with most forecast models hinting at widespread snowfall in excess of 3 inches possible. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Those starting Thursday in snow will likely see it continue throughout the day, while areas that start in cold rain, like Houston, will continue with rain. The forecast for the Interstate 35 corridor from San Antonio and Austin, then north to Killeen is more complex. A nose of warm air is likely to result in a mix of precipitation types, including freezing rain, sleet and possibly snow. The National Weather Service office that covers the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex posted this infographic Monday morning to alert residents of the potential for accumulating snow and major travel problems later this week. National Weather Service In any case, those who have travel plans taking them north or west of Houston overnight Wednesday through Thursday should consider traveling earlier Wednesday or delaying until after Friday, as significant winter weather hazards are expected in the northern half of the state. Will it snow in Houston? A popular question during this weeks freeze asks whether the right ingredients will come together to produce snow in Houston. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its been 1,422 days since Houstons official climate observation site at Bush Intercontinental Airport recorded at least 0.1 inches of snow. This fell on Feb. 15, 2021, as the city and much of the state dealt with a historic deep freeze that triggered a power grid collapse, tossing millions into darkness, and resulted in hundreds of deaths across Texas. Six college students in Massachusetts were accused of luring an active-duty service member whom they falsely described as a sexual predator to their campus, where a group of more than two dozen people chased and assaulted him, authorities said. One of the students who was charged told police that the plot was modeled on To Catch a Predator, NBCs discontinued program that, during its three seasons, aimed to catch adults seeking to prey on minors using undercover cameras and decoys impersonating underage dates, according to a statement of facts in the case. Catch a predator is a big thing on TikTok currently, the facts document cites the student, Easton Randall, 19, as saying. The Assumption University campus in Worcester, Mass. Eleven Illinois teens were charged last month in a similar incident that authorities in Mount Prospect, northwest of Chicago, attributed to a viral social media trend. In a statement at the time, the citys police department did not provide additional details about the trend. Police Chief Michael Eterno pleaded with parents to take these incidents as an opportunity to talk with their teenage children about the seriousness of actively participating in these types of trends they see on social media. At Assumption University, the private Catholic university in Worcester where the six people charged in the plot are students, there was absolutely no evidence that the man students accused of being a predator had been seeking sex with a minor, the statement says. Still, he was chased by what the statement describes as a mob of 25 to 30 people some of them recording the pursuit and ensnared in a conspiracy carried out by a group of six that includes allegations of systemic mistreatment, false imprisonment, physical assault and battery and potential character assassination, according to the university police sergeant who wrote the statement. Charged with kidnapping, conspiracy The statement identifies one of the students as a juvenile, whose charges are not included in a criminal complaint filed last month. The five other students, including Randall, were charged with kidnapping and conspiracy, the complaint shows. Two other students were accused of additional crimes. Kelsy Brainard, 18, was charged with intimidation. Kevin Carroll, 18, was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Messages left with lawyers for Carroll and a second defendant were not returned. A relative of Randalls would not comment. A message left for another defendant on a phone number listed as that of a relative was not returned, nor was a message sent via Facebook to a profile with Brainards name. In a statement, Assumption University President Greg Weiner said the behavior described in the court filing is abhorrent and antithetical to Assumption Universitys mission and values. In all circumstances, we expect our students to exercise sound judgment and uphold the principles of respect, responsibility, and character that define our community. Once the incident was reported, Weiner said, the schools Public Safety Department investigated the allegations and pursued criminal charges. This situation is particularly sobering because the victim is an active-duty military service member, he said. His service reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who defend our freedoms, including the opportunity to pursue a college education. Reached by phone, the victims father told NBC News that his son is 22. He declined to identify which branch of the military his son serves in and said it appears that authorities are doing their job. Theyre doing their due diligence, and these kids seem to have hung themselves with their own words, he said. Home to attend a funeral According to the statement of facts, the incident on Oct. 1 was initially reported to university officials the next day, when Brainard said a creepy Tinder app contact had come to campus looking to meet a 17-year-old girl. She texted a friend Randall who chased the person away, according to the statement. In a subsequent interview with campus police, Brainard reiterated this claim, saying she had been the victim of unsolicited contact, according to the statement. Campus authorities were later connected to the service member by the Worcester Police Department, which provided a starkly different account. He told campus police that he had been home to attend his grandmothers funeral and began messaging with someone on Tinder because he just wanted to be around people that were happy, according to the statement. He and Brainard planned to connect, he told police, and she invited him to meet at a campus alumni hall, according to the statement. Attacked by a mob He had been inside the building for a few minutes, the statement says, when a group of people came out of nowhere and started calling him a pedophile and accusing that he liked 17-year-old girls. He was unable to leave due to being grabbed and held back from leaving, the statement says. The subject reported that he was able to break free and ran up the stairs being chased by a group of 25 or more people. He told police he was chased to his car, punched in the head and had his car door slammed on him, the statement says. After he was able to flee campus, he dialed police, the statement says. A review of campus security video detailed in the statement confirmed the victims account. The video captured students berating the victim as a sexual predator, recording the pursuit as they chased him and high-fiving one another a few minutes later, after one of the accused was captured slamming the mans car door on his head, according to the statement. A review of Tinder messages showed the service member believed he was meeting an 18-year-old, the statement says. The woman's profile indicated she was 18. When officers followed up with Brainard about where the information about an underage girl came from, the statement adds, she could not answer. Call police or kick their ass Randall told authorities that after having learned that Brainard was messaging with the victim, six students came up with the idea of luring him to campus. He reported that it was like the Chris Hansen videos where you catch a predator and either call the police or kick their ass, the statement says, referring to the host of To Catch a Predator. The show, which aired from 2004 to 2007, used hidden cameras and people posing as minors in online chat rooms to lure alleged predators to houses where Hansen would confront them. The program did not condone or include any violence. After a Texas prosecutor who was the subject of one of the shows investigations died by suicide, his family sued the network for $105 million in 2007. NBC settled the following year for an undisclosed amount and said the matter had been amicably resolved. In his interview with campus police, Randall said he and several others made suggestions about what Brainard should say in her messages to the service member, the statement says. After they lured him to campus, the group then rallied others at the college using an alumni group chat a move that provoked the rabid response from the dozens who participated in the event, according to the statement. Afterward, according to the statement, Randall acknowledged to authorities: This got out of hand and went bad. In a new court filing, federal prosecutors allege the suspect who took a hostage and got into a shootout with Yellowstone National Park rangers in July ranted that he "refuse[s] to fraternize with race-traitors that support non-whites or Jews." The Wyoming U.S. Attorney made the filing on Monday in an attempt to gain ownership over the suspect's guns and vehicles, which are in the possession of the federal government but not owned by them. In the filing, federal prosecutors call the suspect's actions an act of terrorism. Samson Fussner, the suspect who died in the shootout, allegedly made inflammatory comments about immigrants, African Americans and Jews while holding a woman hostage in her dorm room and in texts ahead of the shootout, according to federal prosecutors. The filing claims Fussner had engaged in the "planning of and preparation to carry out a terrorist attack against the United States, its citizens and their property," ultimately culminating in the events of the shootout and hostage kidnapping. Fussner, who came from Milton, Florida, complained in texts to his brother about the local diversity, saying he lived in a "hellscape" and would "go postal" if he stayed in Yellowstone longer. He allegedly also texted his brother that he was obsessed with the woman he later kidnapped for a couple of hours, calling her "German stock." During the kidnapping, he told the woman he did not like "how America was bringing in non-Americans" and wanted to "make a statement because politics in America are messed up," the complaint read. Fussner had also been spewing white supremacist and antisemitic views for months before the shootout, according to the filing. PHOTO: Authorities respond to an incident at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, July 4, 2024. (Obtained by ABC News) Just after midnight on July 4, Yellowstone's 911 dispatch center received a report that a woman had been held against her will by a man with a gun in her dorm residence. She reported that Fussner threatened to kill her and others, including plans to allegedly carry out a mass shooting. Fussner, of Milton, Florida, was confronted by Yellowstone law enforcement rangers early the next morning July 4 while allegedly shooting a semi-automatic rifle toward a dining facility at Canyon Village, according to NPS. Approximately 200 people were in the facility at the time, NPS said. During an exchange of gunfire, Fussner was shot by law enforcement rangers and died at the scene, NPS said. A ranger was also shot in a lower extremity, the service noted. Fussner was an employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a private business authorized to operate in Yellowstone. Alleged racist rants of Yellowstone park shooter uncovered in new court filing originally appeared on abcnews.go.com FILE - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro waits to receive attendees at the start of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA) Summit in Caracas, Venezuela, Dec. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Jesus Vargas, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) MIAMI (AP) A former U.S. Marine and a Florida man who were imprisoned in Venezuela have sued President Nicolas Maduro, accusing the leftist leader of heading a vast criminal enterprise that has co-opted the state and uses American citizens as bargaining chips in negotiations with the U.S. The complaint filed Monday in Miami federal court by Matthew Heath and Osman Khan is similar to a slew of lawsuits that have resulted in major judgments for Americans imprisoned in Venezuela. All sought damages under a little-used federal law, the Anti-Terrorism Act, that allows American victims of foreign terror groups to seize the assets of their victimizers. The latest lawsuit alleges that security officials under the command of Maduro subjected the men to a pattern of torture waterboarding, electrocution, threats of rape with a nightstick, mind-altering medications and the repeated use of a cramped cell nicknamed El Tigrito that is also being looked at by prosecutors from the International Criminal Court. The kidnapping, torture and ransoming of American citizens was part of a continuous and systematic scheme to coerce the United States government into policy concessions, the end of an oil embargo, and prisoner swaps, attorneys for Heath and Khan argue in the 87-page complaint. Among the other 17 named defendants are Maduros defense minister, attorney general and interior minister as well as state-run oil and gold-mining companies. Heath, a former U.S. Marine corporal from Tennessee and onetime U.S. security consultant in Afghanistan, was arrested in 2020 at a roadblock in Venezuela. Authorities charged him with terrorism after allegedly finding weapons and a satellite phone in his possession. Maduro said he was in the country surveilling oil refineries as a spy for then-President Donald Trump. Heath's family said he was stuck in Colombia when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down air travel, leaving him stranded. He crossed the border into Venezuela in the hope of taking a short boat ride to Aruba, where a trawler he fixed up to start a chartering business was docked, according to the complaint. Khan was working in Colombia after graduating from college in Florida when he fell in love with a Venezuelan woman who invited him to meet her family. He was detained in January 2022 while crossing the border with his girlfriend and her father on a motorized canoe as instructed by the woman's brother, a Venezuelan national guardsman. He was later charged with crimes including terrorism and human trafficking. The U.S. government determined both men were wrongfully detained on false charges. Heath and Khan were released after being held 752 and 259 days respectively in October 2022 along with five U.S. oil executives in exchange for two nephews of first lady Cilia Flores jailed in the U.S. on narcotics convictions. Venezuela's government did not immediately comment on the lawsuit when contacted by The Associated Press but has long denied it targets Americans for imprisonment. Other Americans who have been imprisoned in Venezuela have won major judgments against Maduro and his inner circle on similar legal grounds. In 2022, a federal judge in Miami awarded $73 million in damages to the family of a prominent opponent of Maduro who died while in custody after inexplicably falling from the 10th floor of a building belonging to the SEBIN political police. And last year an exiled Venezuelan lawyer won $153 million after he was lured back home because his father had been kidnapped, only to end up imprisoned himself on trumped-up charges of working as a financial terrorist. As in the earlier cases, Heath and Khan in their lawsuit accused Maduro of controlling the Cartel of the Suns, a purported drug-smuggling ring involving top Venezuelan officials and guerrillas from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia allegedly flooding the U.S. with cocaine. But collecting those large rewards has proven daunting. Neither Maduro nor any of his close aides are known to have properties or bank accounts in the U.S. under their name. Whatever wealth officials have stolen is more likely to be held by a myriad of front men whose assets are hard to trace and seize. ___ Follow Goodman: @APJoshGoodman Bank stocks rose Monday on the prospect of more lenient oversight after the Federal Reserves top supervisory official stepped down to avoid a potentially thorny legal battle with President-elect Donald Trump. But consumer advocates said the episode could undermine safeguards protecting Americans from reckless banking practices. Michael Barr, the Fed's vice president of supervision, said Monday hell step down from that role on Feb. 28 after serving in the position since July 2022 but will remain on the Feds board. Citigroup shares closed up 2.5%, Bank of America rose 1.4%, and Wells Fargo edged up 1.1% as the banking giants stocks gave back some of their earlier gains. The risk of a dispute over the position could be a distraction from our mission, Barr said in a statement. In the current environment, I've determined that I would be more effective in serving the American people from my role as governor." File photo: Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision, Michael Barr, testifies before a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee hearing in the wake of recent bank failures, on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., May 18, 2023. Why do banks need regulations? Barr, a Democrat, has led the Feds efforts to require banks to hold more capital as a cushion against possible financial crises a mandate that would channel money from investment and lending and could affect bank profits. Barr's resignation as board vice president paves the way for Trump to replace him with a Republican board member more to the liking of the banking industry. Fed Governor Michelle Bowman seems the likely choice, Brian Gardner, Stifels chief Washington policy strategist, said in a research note. Why are banks against Basel III? Gardner said a new vice chair will likely speed up merger reviews, especially for small and midsize banks. He also said a proposed new global regime to toughen bank capital requirements known as Basel III Endgame is dead. While there could be a new rule, Gardner said he thinks it would be capital-neutral. But since Barr isnt stepping down from the seven-member board, Democrats will retain their majority until early 2026, when Trump can appoint Republicans to fill open seats. It is hard for us to see much getting done on a deregulatory side this year given the need to confirm new regulators, Jaret Seiberg, managing director of TD Cowen, said in a note to clients. Barrs term as the Feds top banking official was set to expire in July 2026 while his term as governor ends in January 2032. For weeks, Trump has sought to remove Barr from his banking role, according to Reuters and other reports. A president can only fire a Fed governor for cause, but its unclear if he could demote Barr from his supervisory position. At a news conference after the election, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said Trump would not have the authority to remove him from his role or Barr from his banking position. Girding for a possible battle in the courts, Barr recently sought advice from law firm Arnold & Porter, a Fed spokesperson said. Bartlett Naylor, financial policy advocate for Public Citizen, a consumer group, criticized the events leading to Barrs resignation. Wall Streets attack on honorable public servants attempting to protect hardworking Americans and our economy from reckless banking sends ice water into the veins of financial industry oversight, Naylor said in a statement. Barr led the effort to establish better capital safety standards against the vigorous opposition of Wall Street banks. In a statement, Tim Scott, R-S.C., incoming chair of the Senate Banking Committee, assailed Barr both for his push for tougher regulations and inadequate oversight that helped lead to a bank run and the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and related failures at other regional banks in early 2023. From his supervisory failures during the Spring 2023 bank failures to the disastrous Basel III Endgame proposal Michael Barr has failed to meet the responsibilities of his position, Scott said in a statement. I stand ready to work with President Trump to ensure we have responsible financial regulators at the helm. Contributing: Reuters This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fed's Barr, top banking cop, resigns as banks look for softer rules A long-lost lighter that was dug out of the sand at Jones Beach nearly six decades ago has finally been reunited with the family of the Vietnam veteran who owned it, The Post has learned. The silver igniter etched with a map of Vietnam made the 3,000-mile journey over the weekend to Oregon, where Theresa Shipley and her son Andrew laid eyes on the relic her late husband Paul talked about so often. He wasnt the kind of man to cry, but I think he wouldve shed a tear when he heard that he was getting his lighter back, Theresa, 58, told The Post Monday about Paul, who died in 2003. Paul Shipley served two tours in Vietnam as a Marine plumber who set up water purification systems. Courtesy of Theresa Shipley For decades, the lighter had been something of a mythological artifact in the Shipley household. US Marines vet Paul frequently reminisced about the wartime object, and even enlisted the help of his wife to rifle through every inch of his belongings in their Salem home in hopes of finding it. He never realized that hed lost it way back in the 1960s his hometown of Long Island, which he left after serving two tours in the Vietnam War. He said the reason he re-enlisted was because he didnt get shot the first time, Theresa said of her hero husband. The couple met in the 70s in Oregon at Salem Hospital, where Theresa was working as a housekeeper and Paul as a plumber, a trade he learned during his time setting up water purification systems overseas during the war. Theresa recalled Paul reminiscing about the lost lighter, which she had never seen herself. Courtesy of Theresa Shipley Paul moved to the West Coast shortly after his service concluded because he was tired of digging his van out of the snow, Theresa recalled. I remember Paul talking about that lighter and he always wondered what happened to it, Theresa said. He didnt realize his lighter didnt make the trip with him and tragically died of a heart attack without ever knowing where the prized possession ended up. Unbeknownst to the Marine, an eagle-eyed Army paratrooper from the Bronx had scooped up the detailed lighter while enjoying a day at Jones Beach in the late 1960s. A map of Vietnam was etched on the cigarette lighter. Obtained by the NY Post Frank Livoti Jr. said his father, Frank Livoti Sr., instantly recognized the significance of the intricate lighter and spent decades trying to locate its owner, whose initials P.L. Shipley were carefully carved on the back. The elder Livoti and his son visited a military recruitment office to dig up information but hit numerous dead-ends. The elder Livoti also died in 2003 and for the last two decades, the lighter sat untouched on a shelf in his sons office. The lighter eventually caught the eye of Frank Livoti Jr.s son, Isaac, about a year ago. Several days later, while celebrating his anniversary with his wife in the Bronxville restaurant where they first met when they ran into two other former Marines one of whom was working as a private investigator. The Livotis were unable to find the mysterious P.L. Shipley. Obtained by the NY Post Livoti Jr. relayed the saga of the cigarette lighter and, with the help of the PI, reignited the mission to find its owner. Last week, the dream finally came to fruition. Theresa handed down the lighter to her and Pauls son, Andrew, on Sunday. Courtesy of Theresa Shipley The reunion was emotional for the family, who lost Paul to a heart attack in 2003. Courtesy of Theresa Shipley I was excited when I got the phone call from Frank, Theresa recalled of the moment Livoti Jr. reached out to tell her he had her late husbands lost lighter. I really appreciate that. Frank went through all this effort to try and find me it shows that there are still good people out there and all is not lost, she added. I know my husband would be thrilled. On Sunday, Theresa bestowed the lighter to her and Pauls son, Andrew, who, like his mother, had only ever heard about the piece as a long-lost memento father had cherished during his time at war. Andrew was choked up. He couldnt talk when he opened his present, Theresa said about the heartwarming moment. The cigarette lighter was etched with a map of Vietnam. Courtesy of Theresa Shipley I told him that I had something from his father and he was thrilled. He said it was amazing that the lighter made its way back to us. I was so glad that I could give him something from his father, she added. Paul was a great husband and father, Theresa said. We had a good life, just Ma and Pa North America. He likes working with his hands. He was a standup man very chivalrous. For Frank Livoti Jr., the act of kindness also served as a way to bring his fathers dreams to reality. Im so glad it worked out. I did it to honor my father. He was a veteran and he knew the sentimental value of the cigarette lighter. It took over 50 years, but Im glad that my fathers intentions were realized, he told The Post. My father would feel gratified and overjoyed. I think he would say to me a job well done. Simply Recipes / Getty Images One of the first things I ever learned to make for myself was a grilled cheese sandwich. I watched intently as my grandma layered white bread with mayonnaise and soft butter, with two slices of American cheese inside, before toasting it in a cast iron skillet. Hers was the best, but by middle school, I could successfully produce one for myself, and it was the perfect treatwith a bowl of tomato soup of courseon a cold afternoon. My culinary tastes have evolved a lot since then, but I still love a great grilled cheese sandwich, and when I visited the Tillamook creamery in Oregon this past fall (a kind of holy pilgrimage for cheese lovers like me), their Double Cheddar Grilled Cheese was a revelation. I loved it so much I asked their chef, Josh Archibald, to tell me how to make it, and he kindly obliged. Simply Recipes / Tillamook The Best Cheese for Grilled Cheese, According to Tillamook The team at Tillamook relentlessly pursued grilled cheese perfection for about two years before putting the sandwich on the menu at their creamery and at the PDX airport, and that effort paid off in the form of a perfectly toasty, melty, gooey, cheese-pull-y masterpiece. Tillamook head chef, Josh Archibald, explains that, for them, cheddar is better. For my grilled cheese, I like to use two slices of Tillamook Farmstyle Medium White Cheddar and two slices of Tillamook Farmstyle Sharp Cheddar, says Archibald. I have found that by using this blend, you get the perfect balance of creamy, melty, buttery, and the sharp cheddar flavor that we love. How Tillamook Makes the Perfect Grilled Cheese Archibald starts by spreading a mixture of butter and mayonnaise (My grandma was on to something!) on thick sourdough bread. By using a blend, we think we get the best of both worlds, he says. The butter is creamy, and luscious while the mayo does the job of giving your bread an even toasting, and a light almost crouton-esque crispness. You can use whatever mayonnaise you prefer, but Archibald says they use a Japanese-style mayo at Tillamook. The chef starts his grilled cheese sandwich in a warm pan, increasing the heat slightly as necessary. As opposed to some dishes that advise cooks to flip only once or twice, Archibald says he likes to flip and turn the sandwich often during cooking time to get perfectly melted cheese and a nicely toasted exterior. The deeper flavor that comes when the bread is darker is more hearty and fulfilling than it is with a lighter toasting, he notes. Pro Tips for Grilled Cheese Success Since putting the iconic sandwich on its menu, Archibald estimates Tillamook has sold a jaw-dropping 90,000 Double Cheddar Grilled Cheese sandwiches each year, so you can be sure they know exactly what theyre doing. Here are some of Archibalds tips: Use 3/4-inch slices of sourdough for the bread, and slather on a 50/50 blend of Tillamook Salted butter (whipped) and Japanese mayonnaise to create the perfect golden brown crisp and flavor. It is easier to increase heat during the cooking process than it is to decrease heat, especially if you use a cast iron pan. I like to start in a warm pan, but I also advocate for a long cooking time, flipping and turning often to ensure even browning and that the cheese melts fully. Though cheddar is Tillamooks go-to cheese for grilled cheese sandwiches, Archibald says blending other cheeses, like mozzarella or smoked cheddar, provides even more flavor variations to love. Read the original article on SIMPLYRECIPES President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden on Monday met with families, survivors and local law enforcement affected by the New Year's Day attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people and wounded dozens of others. They met privately shortly before Biden arrived at St. Louis Cathedral, where he spoke at an interfaith prayer service Monday evening. During those remarks, Biden said he was grieving over the lives lost, and stood with those who were injured during the attack, including a pair of officers whom he met during his visit. Biden also said his administration would extend its support to the French Quarter which was the site of the attack, and "all the people to New Orleans as they heal." "And if there's one thing we know, New Orleans defines strength and resilience. You define it," Biden said, citing past hurricanes and "super storms." Upon his arrival in New Orleans, Biden was greeted by Mayor LaToya Cantrell, a Democrat, and others, including the special agent in charge of the investigation for the FBI, Lionel Myrthil, and the wife of Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., Laura Cassidy. The Bidens stopped at Bourbon Street in the afternoon. Jill Biden laid flowers at a memorial honoring the victims, and they both stood quietly with their heads bowed. First lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden pay their respects to victims of last week's truck attack at a makeshift memorial in Bourbon Street in New Orleans on Monday. The White House announced Monday that the Biden administration would allocate additional federal resources to support New Orleans' preparations for the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras after it determined that the events "require extensive federal inter agency support." "We will use every tool available to fill local capability shortfalls to assure safe and secure events, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. Federal assistance could include explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessments, venue screening and field intelligence teams and air security and tactical operation support, in addition to the support already provided by state and local governments," Jean-Pierre added. Referring to the suspect, Biden said in a national address last week that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, 42, an Army veteran from Texas whom federal investigators identified as the attacker, had posted videos on social media indicating he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill. Jabbar rammed a rented pickup truck into crowds celebrating the dawn of the new year on Bourbon Street in the early hours of Jan. 1. He was killed in a shootout with police shortly after the attack. Millions of people across Southern California are under a red flag warning as a dangerous windstorm fanned blazes in the Los Angeles area, including the Palisades Fire, which has triggered evacuations and burned hundreds of acres. A "Particularly Dangerous Situation" red flag warning has been issued for 19 million people in the region, including metropolitan Los Angeles. That class of warning is issued "in rare situations when long-lived, strong and violent tornadoes are possible," according to the National Weather Service. The last time it was issued was during the Franklin Fire, which burned over 4,000 acres in Malibu last month. Follow along for live coverage On Tuesday morning, the Palisades Fire ignited in Los Angeles southeast of Palisades Drive, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. It had already burned 200 acres as of Tuesday, afternoon and its cause is under investigation. The city of Los Angeles issued an evacuation order for the Palisades area. The National Weather Service issued a critical fire risk alert for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with the storm beginning Tuesday afternoon and peaking early Wednesday. Winds will be above 60 mph, and gusts could reach 80 mph to 100 mph in mountains and foothills. The fire threat is expected to stick around through Friday. Warm and dry Santa Ana winds and very low humidity have created the perfect conditions for spreading fire, triggering repeated red flag fire warnings, and authorities are taking no chances. California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday he would pre-emptively mobilize state resources to tackle the storm, including assigning 65 fire engines, seven water tenders, seven helicopters and 109 specialized workers. Smoke rises from the Franklin Fire, driven by fierce Santa Ana winds, in Malibu on Dec. 10. 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. A brush fire is burning in the Hollywood Hills, prompting firefighters to protect buildings in the area, NBC Los Angeles reported. Those could be some of the worst fire conditions the region has experienced in years in terms of the wind forecast combined with the exceptionally dry conditions. The National Weather Service office in Los Angeles issued a stark warning: "Strong winds are coming. This is a Particularly Dangerous Situation in other words, this is about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather." The weather service urged people not just to stay inside, but also to stay away from windows during the storm. The city of Los Angeles warned residents of a "destructive, widespread, and potentially life-threatening windstorm" that will most likely down trees and sever power connections. Fire-prone areas should be ready to evacuate, including the San Fernando Valley and the Hollywood Hills. "We really havent seen a season as dry as this one follow a season as wet as the previous one all of that extra abundant growth of grass and vegetation followed immediately by a wind event of this magnitude while its still so incredibly dry," Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at UCLA, said on a livestream Monday. Energy company San Diego Gas & Energy said it could turn off the power to almost 65,000 customers as a precaution. The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District announced that all schools in Malibu will be closed Tuesday "due to worsening weather conditions and safety concerns." The Los Angeles Unified School District said it will limit outdoor activities for students at schools that are expected to be affected by high winds. Daniel Penny, Jordan Neely, Jordan Neely's father Daniel Penny says a lawsuit filed by Jordan Neelys father should be dismissed outright, according to a new filing by his attorneys. On Monday, Penny submitted a reply to the civil suit filed last year in Manhattan Supreme Court just before his December acquittal in criminal court over the subway death of Neely, and argued that Penny is not culpable for any civil damages. Daniel Penny has called for the lawsuit against him filed by Jordan Neelys father to be dismissed. Getty Images Pennys attorney Steven Raiser, who helped represent him in his criminal trial, says that any injuries or damages suffered by Neelys dad, Andre Zachery, were caused in whole or in part by the culpable conduct, negligence, carelessness, and lack of care on the part of Plaintiff, the filing reads. In a statement, Raiser said: We continue to assert Dannys innocence and will fight back against these allegations with the same vigor and determination as in the criminal case. Neelys father filed the suit against Penny late last year. Gregory P. Mango A criminal jury exonerated Danny from any wrongdoing and we expect nothing less from a civil jury once they too are armed with all the facts, he added. Representatives and attorneys for Zachery did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Despite Penny being found not guilty in his criminal case, Zacherys civil lawsuit poses totally new challenges to the question of culpability, legal experts previously told The Post, since civil trials have a different burden of proof as compared to criminal proceedings. Facing a civil suit means that burden shifts from reasonable doubt to more likely than not, attorney Lanny Davis, a former adviser to former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, told The Post when the lawsuit was first filed in December. Zacharys lawyer, Donte Mills, previously told The Post that he does not believe Pennys criminal acquittal will have any impact in our case due to that lower burden of proof required in civil court. Penny was acquitted in criminal court in Neelys death. Juan Vazquez Did he hold that chokehold for too long when people were telling him to let go? Should he have let go? Mills told The Post last month. Thats what its going to come down to. Once again, a Manhattan jury will determine whether Penny was liable for Neelys death, and if he will have to pay a to-be-determined amount in damages to the deceased mans father. Penny finds himself in similar company with former football star OJ Simpson, who was found not guilty of killing his estranged wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her pal Ronald Goldman in a 1994 criminal trial. But three years later, Simpson was ordered to fork over more than $33 million to the victims families following a civil trial in California. Then-Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announces criminal corruption charges stemming from the investigation into the Midtown Redevelopment Authority on Friday, June 21, 2024, in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A former Midtown Redevelopment Authority official and two vendors were charged with felonies last summer, accused of misusing some $8.5 million in public funds meant to build affordable housing in Third Ward. A Houston Chronicle investigation this week detailed another questionable use of Midtowns affordable housing funds: A $22 million, half-empty office building and parking garage where no one lives. So where does the Midtown corruption case stand today, and what do prosecutors allege? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Todd Edwards, Midtowns former real estate manager, is facing four first-degree felony charges: theft, abuse of official capacity, money laundering and misapplication of fiduciary property. Midtown vendors Veronica Ugorji of Cortez Landscaping and Kenneth Jones of KCK Demolition and Landscaping are charged with money laundering and abuse of official capacity, also first-degree felonies. The charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison. None of the three have entered pleas in the case. Edwards, through his attorney, denied the allegations. Attorneys for the two other defendants declined to comment. Midtown, a city of Houston development agency, for decades has spent millions of tax dollars dedicated to affordable housing, buying hundreds of lots in and around Third Ward in hopes of slowing gentrification in the historic Black neighborhood. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hundreds of Midtowns lots still sit vacant, and often overgrown. Neighbors annoyance at Edwards lack of responsiveness to their concerns about the lots led them to dig into Midtown records and discover that Edwards had paid a company he himself had formed P.O.W.E.R. LLC $2.1 million from 2011 to 2020, ostensibly to mow the land. That's all he had to do: Cut the grass, said Third Ward Super Neighborhood president Ken Rodgers, shaking his head. Had he cut the grass, we would have went on about our way. Ugorjis Cortez Landscaping was paid $6.2 million to maintain the lots from 2015 to 2021, records show. Edwards company and Jones company also both served as subcontractors for Cortez, investigators found. Edwards not only appeared to help Ugorji form Cortez in the first place, but helped her submit the invoices that he then paid, investigators found. Edwards appeared to be dating Ugorji, prosecutors said. Charging documents describe romantic messages, some intimate images and vacation planning emails between them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Midtown fired Edwards in May 2023. That October, Houstons Office of Inspector General determined that Edwards used his position to benefit himself and (Ugorji). The criminal charges were announced in June 2024. Since then, the defendants have posted bail and have appeared in court monthly, more or less, with their hearings typically being reset for the next month. WHAT IS A TIRZ?: What development zones are and how Houston uses them to drive growth Edwards is set to be arraigned to hear the charges against him and enter a plea on Jan. 23. He initially was represented by former congressman Craig Washington. But Washington withdrew from the case in October, filing paperwork with the court in which he said Edwards was unwilling to pay Counsel the very reasonable fee quoted to represent him. Advertisement Article continues below this ad At a court appearance in December, Edwards was declared indigent and provided an appointed attorney, Inger Chandler, who said via email that Edwards remains steadfast in his innocence. Jones, of KCK Demolition and Landscaping, also said he is indigent in motions seeking the courts help in hiring an investigator to help prepare his defense. Jones request was granted in November. A similar request from Edwards is pending with the court. Prosecutors allege Ugorji violated her bail conditions by traveling outside of the Houston region and by consuming alcohol. This month, a judge approved her being outfitted with a GPS monitor and subject to a daily curfew from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., records show. Attorneys for Jones and Ugorji declined to comment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The post office box listed on some of the invoices submitted by Edwards P.O.W.E.R. LLC matched the one used by former longtime Third Ward state Rep. Garnet Coleman, in whose legislative office Edwards worked in the late 1990s. Coleman, the architect of Midtowns affordable housing ambitions, has denounced Edwards actions and denied any knowledge of the scheme. Former District Attorney Kim Ogg last summer declined to comment on Colemans role, if any, in the investigation. He said in December that he is not a target. Coleman also provided paperwork showing that only he and a longtime aide, Angelita Gomez, were authorized to use the P.O. Box. BEIJING/KATHMANDU- A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck the foothills of the Himalayas near one of Tibet's holiest cities on Tuesday, killing at least 95 people and collapsing hundreds of houses, Chinese authorities said. The earthquake's epicentre was about 80 km (50 miles) north of Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain. Tremors also shook buildings in neighbouring Nepal, Bhutan and India. The China Earthquake Networks Centre located the epicentre at Tingri county, known as the northern gateway to the Everest region, at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). The U.S. Geological Service put the quake's magnitude at 7.1. It struck at 9:05 a.m. (0105 GMT). At least 95 people were known to have been killed and 130 injured on the Tibetan side, China's state-run television reported. There were no reports of deaths elsewhere. The quake's impact was felt across the Shigatse region of Tibet, home to 800,000 people. The region is administered by Shigatse city, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism. Many homes in Shigatse city were reduced to rubble, video released by Tibet Fire and Rescue showed. Rescue workers searched through the debris of a ruined home and pulled out one injured person, it showed. The Dalai Lama, Tibet's spiritual leader who fled his homeland in 1959 after it was taken over by China, said he was deeply saddened. "I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured," the Nobel peace laureate said in a message. Mount Everest is a popular destination for climbers and trekkers but winter is not a prime season for climbers and hikers in Nepal. A German climber was the lone mountaineer with a permit to climb Everest but he had already left the base camp after failing to reach the summit, tourism department official Lilathar Awasthi said. China closed the Everest region to tourists after the quake, China's Xinhua news agency reported. Chinese President Xi Jinping said all-out search and rescue efforts should be carried out to minimise casualties and to resettle affected people. More than 1,500 firefighters and rescue workers have been despatched to the affected areas, Xinhua said. Some 22,000 items including tents, coats, quilts and folding beds have also been sent, it said. More world news: 2 men die after choking on mochi treats in Tokyo; 7 others taken to hospitals: Reports Tremors, aftershocks Villages in Tingri, where the average elevation is around 4,000-5,000 metres (13,000-16,000 feet), reported strong shaking during the quake, which was followed more than 150 aftershocks with magnitudes of up to 4.4. Crumbled shop fronts could be seen in a video on social media showing the aftermath in the town of Lhatse, with debris spilling out onto the road. There are three townships and 27 villages within 20 km (12 miles) of the epicentre, with a total population of around 6,900, and more than 1,000 houses have been damaged, Xinhua reported. Southwestern parts of China, Nepal and northern India are often hit by earthquakes caused by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Since 1950, there have been 21 earthquakes of magnitude 6 or above in what is know as the Lhasa block, the largest of which was the 6.9-magnitude quake in Mainling in 2017, according to CCTV. Mainling is located in the lower reaches of Tibet's Yarlung Zangbo river where China is planning to build the world's largest hydropower dam. A magnitude 7.8 tremor struck near Nepal's capital Kathmandu in 2015, killing about 9,000 people and injuring thousands in the country's worst ever earthquake. Among the dead were at least 18 people killed at the Mount Everest base camp when it was hit by an avalanche. On Tuesday, tremors were felt in Kathmandu, some 400 km (250 miles) from the epicentre, and residents in the city ran out of their houses. "The bed was shaking and I thought my child was moving the bed...I didn't pay that much attention but the shaking of (a) window made me understand that it's an earthquake," said Kathmandu resident Meera Adhikarii. "I'm still shaking out of fear and am in shock." One person was injured in Kathmandu when he jumped off the top of a house after feeling the strong tremors, Nepal Police spokesman Bishwa Adhikari said. The quake also jolted Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, and the northern Indian state of Bihar which borders Nepal. Tibet is prone to earthquakes Tibet was struck with a magnitude 6.8 earthquake on Tuesday, one of the most powerful tremors in recent years, that hit the northern foothills of the Himalayas, killing at least 95 people. Tibet is a seismically active zone. It logged more than 100 earthquakes of magnitude of at least 3.0 last year. But quakes of magnitude 7.0 and above are rare, with just nine since the turn of the 20th century. The epicentre was located in Tingri, a rural county near the boundary where the Indian tectonic plate collides with the Eurasian plate, creating long fault-lines across the Tibetan plateau. Below are some notable quakes in Tibet in recent decades: JUNE 1, 2024 Magnitude: 5.9 Epicenter: Nagqu, northern Tibet Tibet's biggest earthquake in 2024, but no reports of casualties or property losses due to its isolated location. NOV. 18, 2017 Magnitude: 6.9 Epicenter: Mainling, eastern Tibet The largest earthquake in the Lhasa block since 1950. The Lhasa block, bounded by fault-lines, forms southern Tibet. The Mainling quake triggered more than 300 aftershocks, affecting over 12,000 people and damaging nearly 3,000 houses. Three people were hurt. OCT. 6, 2008 Magnitude: 6.6 Epicenter: Damxung, central Tibet At least 10 people were killed and 34 injured. The epicentre was close to that of a 1951 quake. NOV. 18, 1951 Magnitude: 8.0 Epicenter: Damxung, central Tibet The second earthquake of magnitude 8.0 or above since 1950. It formed a rupture in the ground that spanned 81 kilometres (50 miles). AUG. 15, 1950 Magnitude: 8.6 Epicenter: Medog, eastern Tibet One of the strongest earthquakes recorded globally in the 20th century. The quake destroyed thousands of homes, temples and mosques and killed over 3,000 people in Tibet and more than 1,000 in Assam, India. In the hardest-hit areas, mountains shifted and landscapes were altered. Several peaks collapsed, blocking the Yarlung Zangbo river, and landslides plunged villages into the river. Reporting by Joe Cash and Ryan Woo in Beijing, Gopal Sharma in Kathmandu, Sudipto Ganguly in Mumbai, Tora Agarwala in Guwahati, India and Jatindra Dash in Bhubaneswar, India; Writing by Lincoln Feast; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan, Neil Fullick, Kate Mayberry Reporting by Beijing Newsroom, Editing by Alexandra Hudson This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tibet earthquake 2025: Region struck with a magnitude 6.8 earthquake Tyler Moore lives with his wife Emily and their three daughters in a compact (but very organised) 65 square metre apartment - Dan Callister The words tidy and dad may not sit obviously in the same sentence, but a maths teacher from Queens, New York, has packaged them together and turned himself into an unlikely Instagram sensation. Tyler Moore, 38, lives in a tiny apartment with his wife, Emily, and their three daughters aged between four and nine. If you are messy, choices are made for you, he says, and in the seven years since Moore started documenting his life after a clutter-induced breakdown on a New York pavement, he has become an inspiration to hundreds of thousands. (Sample post: Every toilet deserves a chance to SHINE!) People as far afield as London stop Moore on the street and say to their husbands: This is the guy, and you need to follow him. From this month, non-social-media users will benefit from Moores entertaining brand of mess-curation, with the publication of his book Tidy Up Your Life: Rethinking How to Organise, Declutter and Make Space for What Matters Most. Intrigued, The Telegraph made a trip to New York to visit Tidy Dad and see how he puts his tips into practice. The family apartment, situated on the second floor of a three-storey building, is certainly compact at 65 square metres. Its what Americans call railroad style in that rooms are laid out in a straight line between the front and the back windows and you have to walk through one room to reach the next. Routine and order have helped Moore to remove chaos and clutter from his family life - Dan Callister The front door opens into the living room which has the apartments only table. To the right is the kitchen, with a tiny bathroom (and corner bath only) leading off it. To the left, a small area with a sofa (painted bright pink), then the Moores bedroom and, beyond it, the girls room. Mabel, whos nine, Matilda, seven, and Margaret, four, sleep in three tiered bunk-beds, like a lasagne. Every wall or door has hooks, bags and coats hanging off it, every cupboard has storage containers on top, or stacked within. Mabel, Matilda and Margaret have three tiered bunk-beds to save valuable floor space, with hanging hold-alls in which to store their bits and bobs - Dan Callister Hanging storage on doors makes use of vertical space while minimising clutter - Dan Callister I planned everything by dimensions, not by colour or design, says Moore, pristine, straight-backed, a geometry teacher to his core. I even measured inside the drawers and drew blueprints. He is particularly fond of his wardrobe only 14in across more on which below. A pathological fear of mess Moore was born in Louisville, Kentucky: his father was a teacher and mother worked in a hospital lab. I guess you could say I was born in a tidy home, he says. My mom loved redecorating and painting by numbers, and she framed her jigsaw puzzles. We needed routine and order in our house, and I always helped out as much as my two sisters, doing dishes, pulling weeds. He has never believed that tidying should be based on gender, and holds that men should pull their weight around the house. Stuff really became important to Moore at the age of 13, when his parents divorced. This was the first time I had to think about my home and my space, he says. Overnight, we went from living in one house to living in two. Comfort and order became important to me. I needed systems to keep track of things and had to block time off to tidy them up. Moores own parents divorced when he was 13, and he enjoys creating ordered spaces for his own children - Dan Callister College proved to be a challenge. I always had a tidy space in my dorm, he says. But my room-mate was very messy he used to throw soda cans over my head into the trash can. So I suggested we have separate trash cans. When my roommate went away for the weekend, Id make his bed and tidy his space, then mess it all up before he came back again I just wanted to avoid conflict. Moore was to prove luckier in his choice of romantic partner Emily, an occupational therapist who shares his philosophy of neatness. They met in eighth grade (the second year of secondary school) and married when he was 22 and she was 21. The couple graduated, and moved to New York, and eventually into this small Queens apartment unlike many of their peers, they did not want to move to the suburbs to start a family, as they enjoyed city life so much. The couple also own a summer house in Pennsylvania, which one cant help but imagine in a state of chaotic clutter, like a Dorian Gray-style alter ego. The Moores had two small daughters when Tylers pathological fear of mess resurfaced. Id switched jobs from being a teacher to working as an administrator and was unhappy, he says. I would come home from work, see the toys on the floor, and think: now I have to tidy. Emily would say: why dont you sit down for five minutes? But I just couldnt. My school life was chaotic and there was mess at home I started to realise that the mess represented something deeper. The turning point came in October 2017, when Moore had a breakdown in the street. I was walking along the sidewalk when I suddenly felt a huge spike of physical anxiety, he says. My heart started racing and I burst into tears. Id felt anxious before, and I could usually deal with it, but not that day. Moore is interested in how emotion and mess are interlinked, and believes that mess in the home can represent something deeper - Dan Callister Moore took three months leave from work, and started therapy both with Emily and by himself. I started to ask myself why I found things overwhelming, and realised that mental and physical clutter go hand in hand. I had to learn how to step back and think: what does mess mean to me? Over this period, Moore made a big career decision: to give up his role as an administrator and to revert to his first love: being a classroom teacher. But I also realised it was time to deal with the physical mess in my home, and I needed systems so I knew where everything would go. The books on the bookshelves are colour-coded, which provides a visual sense of order - Dan Callister Bringing order into chaos The Moores first task was to switch bedrooms with their daughters so the girls now had the largest room at the end of the apartment. We also got rid of the TV, which took up wall space, and got a projector, he says. Then, he and Emily unpacked their belongings and made some brutal decisions about what would stay and what would go. Moores first move was to rationalise his wardrobe, and to make good use of a bedroom cupboard that is just over a foot wide. It now boasts 20-odd hangers holding his jackets and shirts, above several shelves with carefully rolled-up pairs of jeans. I now live with a capsule wardrobe that I rotate over 30 days, he says. It has four key colours: navy, olive, tan and burgundy. This takes away decision fatigue: Im fully in control of my closet. Moore rotates his capsule wardrobe, which is comprised of four key colours, every 30 days - Dan Callister Emily has a bigger, more traditional wardrobe on the other side of the room. (Im happy for him to show off his closet, but I dont necessarily want to show off mine, she says.) More challenges were to come. Clothing was easy, says Moore. But objects with a sentimental background were difficult to part with. We had a yellow-and-pink lamp which I made the decision to keep because of the memories attached to it, he says. As a boy, I recall my grandmother buying this lamp and every time I look at it, I think of her. On the other hand, there was the Easter bonnet that Emilys mother made for Mabel. That was easier to get rid of. We took a photo of it and sent it to Emilys mom, so there was no need to keep it. Moore insists the girls are on board with his tidying choices though, during this interview, Margaret, the youngest, starts ostentatiously laying out a line of brightly coloured plastic spheres on the floor: one can see Moore visibly tensing up. People have accused me of stealing my girls childhood when I ask them to fold things up, but thats ridiculous, he says. Moore admits that some followers have criticised his strict home-making style - Dan Callister The @tidydad account grew when Moore had the idea of hosting a decluttering session, and Emily posted about it in a group for fellow parents. The event was a success, so they held another one. Then, in January 2019, the couple decided to turn it into an Instagram account. Everyone is nosy about how other people live, says Moore. His childhood friends all think its a hoot. They say to me: Youve always been Tidy Dad. It must be great for Emily to have such a fastidious husband. Im very proud of him, she says. There is a perception that he may be difficult to live with, or has OCD, but I dont see it that way. Fortunately, she tends to be tidy herself one of the couples favourite jobs is dumping laundry on the bed and folding it up together. But I do have a habit of leaving things out overnight if Im in the middle of a task, says Emily. Tyler just cant tolerate it. Mostly its just great that I have a husband who believes its not just the womans job to clean the toilet. 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-elect Donald Trump told residents of Greenland that were going to treat you well as his oldest son visited the mineral-rich Danish territory thats home to a large U.S. military base, heightening speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to acquire it. The president-elect later told a news conference he wouldn't rule out using military force or economic coercion to take control of Greenland, saying that we need it for national security. Earlier, the president-elect posted a video showing a TRUMP-emblazoned plane landing in Nuuk, the Arctic territorys capital, in a landscape of snow-capped peaks and fjords. Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland, Trump wrote. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Supporters later posted video of Trump speaking by phone to locals. In a statement, Greenlands government said Donald Trump Jr.s visit was taking place as a private individual and not as an official visit, and Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Trump Jr. was in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly. Trumps eldest son has become a prominent player in his fathers political movement and has served on his presidential transition team. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary of the ministry of statehood and foreign affairs, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr.s delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect has voiced a desire also expressed during his first presidency to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the U.S, China, Russia and others. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, and called the United States Denmarks most important ally. Greenland is not for sale, Frederiksen said, adding that we need to stay calm and stick to our principles The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet. The autonomous territory has some 56,000 residents, most of them Indigenous Inuit people. Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Independence has become a key issue ahead of an election for the Greenlandic parliament. A date hasnt been set, but it must take place no later than April 6. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, told the AP she has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the U.S. and said she hears the same sentiment from her constituents. Most people dont want it, she said. I think some people find it quite disrespectful. And the way it has been done, and just the fact that youre saying that you can buy another country. A former colony of Denmark, Greenland in 1979 gained self-rule, which is exercises through its parliament. Copenhagen still exercises control over Greenlands foreign and defense policy. A treaty with the United States, with the U.S. base, also gives Washington say over the territorys defense. Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdoms rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. The kings power is mostly symbolic. Last month, the king by royal decree changed Denmarks coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, the king said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. The idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland located near the North American landmass is not new, with early attempts in the late 19th century. During his first term, Trump mused about purchasing Greenland. He canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after the prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. Ted Farnsworth. Jamie McCarthy/Getty Ted Farnsworth pleaded guilty to defrauding investors in MoviePass and Vinco. Farnsworth has been in prison since August 2023. MoviePass's $10 plan led to its popularity but was unsustainable, causing bankruptcy. Ted Farnsworth pleaded guilty on Tuesday to defrauding investors in the movie-ticket subscription service MoviePass, the US Department of Justice announced. He bought the company in 2017 while CEO of Helios and Matheson Analytics (HMNY). Farnsworth, 62, also pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge for a second scheme related to a video-sharing platform he was involved with while under investigation for MoviePass. Farnsworth has been in federal custody since August 2023. "Farnsworth was anxious to accept responsibility for his conduct," Farnsworth's lawyer, Sam Rabin, told Business Insider in a statement. "The most important step in doing that was to plead guilty to the crimes with which he is charged. He did that today." The Department of Justice charged Farnsworth and then MoviePass CEO Mitch Lowe with securities fraud in 2022. The DOJ alleged that Lowe and Farnsworth "engaged in a scheme to defraud investors through materially false and misleading representations relating to HMNY and MoviePass's business and operations to artificially inflate the price of HMNY's stock and attract new investors." The DOJ also recently charged Farnsworth and others with using "the same strategy to defraud" investors in Vinco Ventures, another publicly traded company. MoviePass CEO Mitch Lowe and Helios and Matheson Chief Executive Ted Farnsworth. MoviePass/Reuters Lowe, the former MoviePass CEO, pleaded guilty to securities fraud conspiracy in September 2024. The rise and fall of MoviePass In 2017, HMNY became the parent company of MoviePass. Farnsworth and Lowe launched a $10-a-month plan that made the service very popular. As subscriptions soared into the millions, HMNY's stock skyrocketed. However, the $10 plan which allowed subscribers to see a movie a day in theaters was not sustainable, and the company burned through hundreds of millions of dollars. By 2020, both MoviePass and HMNY went bankrupt. MoviePass founder Stacy Spikes, who was ousted by Lowe and Farnsworth from MoviePass in 2018, bought back the company in 2021. MoviePass under Spikes' leadership is currently available nationwide. The story of the rise and fall of MoviePass is chronicled in the documentary "MoviePass, MovieCrash," which was released in May and is based on BI's award-winning reporting. Read the original article on Business Insider Courtesy of Girl Scouts of the USA Girl Scouts selling cookies Girl Scout Cookie season has officially kicked off! On Tuesday, Jan. 7, Girl Scouts launched the 2025 cookie season. And for the first time, theyre revealing which cookies will be discontinued after this year, PEOPLE can announce exclusively. Two popular flavors, Girl Scout Smores and Toast-Yay!, will be available for the last time this year before being retired for the 2026 cookie season. Smores combine graham sandwich cookies with a chocolate and marshmallow filling, while Toast-Yay! features French toast-flavored treats dipped in icing. Courtesy of Girl Scouts of the USA (2) S'mores and Toast-Yay! cookies Related: Starbucks Adds Cortados and Falafel to the Menu and Brings Back Beloved Pistachio Lattes and We Tried Them All Of course, cookie fans can also look forward to the return of classics such as Thin Mints, Samoas (or Caramel deLites), Tagalongs (or Peanut Butter Patties) and other longtime favorites. There are no new cookies this season. In 2023, the company introduced the Raspberry Rally, but later opted to discontinue the fruity newcomer. Courtesy of Girl Scouts of the USA Thin Mints, Samoas and Tagalongs Launched as a "sister cookie" to Thin Mints, they were available only online. The crispy cookie with raspberry flavor and chocolate coating appeared on eBay after selling out on the official Girl Scout website within two months of its release. Single packages went for $25 and up and some sellers were bundling 20 packages for more than $450. At the time, the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) said they were "disappointed" about the "unauthorized resales, in a statement shared with PEOPLE. The organization continues to encourage girls to develop entrepreneurial skills through its cookie program, including setting goals and managing money. Courtesy of Girl Scouts of the USA Girl Scouts selling cookies Related: Chick-fil-A Brings Back Key Lime Frosted Lemonade After 5-Year Hiatus 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. Were so excited to kick off Girl Scout Cookie Season the largest girl-led entrepreneurship program in the world," Wendy Lou, GSUSAs chief revenue officer, said in a statement on this year's launch. "The beloved tradition is an opportunity for girls to build important life skills like goal-setting, money management, teamwork, and decision-making. Every cookie box sold helps a girl take the next step toward becoming a confident leader and sales from cookie season help power exciting opportunities for girls and their troops throughout the year. Girl Scout Cookie season runs from January through April, but local timing and availability varies. To find a booth in your area, visit girlscoutcookies.org or text COOKIES to 59618 for more information. As for purchasing cookies online for direct shipment without going through a Girl Scout you know, customers can place orders starting on Feb. 21. Read the original article on People An exiled Chinese business tycoons chief of staff was sentenced to 10 years in prison for her role in diverting money from investors to Gatsby-like purchases, including a mansion, nearly $1 million in Persian and Chinese rugs and a Lamborghini, federal officials announced Monday. Judge Analisa Torres of the Southern District of New York sentenced the woman, Yvette Wang, for her role in defrauding thousands of investors of the approximately $1.4 billion they poured into the businesses of exiled tycoon Miles Guo, authorities said. Wang, a Chinese citizen living in New York City, participated in the fraud from at least 2018 through March 2023, officials said. The 45-year-old worked with Guo and co-conspirator Kin Ming Je to convince people to invest in fraudulent schemes like the Rule of Law Foundation, a bogus nonprofit that purported to take aim at the Chinese Communist Party; and Himalaya Exchange, a fraudulent cryptocurrency exchange that has been seized by the FBI, an indictment says. Wang was charged with wire fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering, according to a complaint. FBI agents who arrested her in March 2023 found $130,000 in cash in her apartment, according to Justice Department officials. In addition to the 50,000-square-foot New Jersey mansion, the lavish spending Wang helped orchestrate also included approximately $4.4 million on a custom-built Bugatti sports car, a $62,000 television and a $53,000 fireplace log cradle holder, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Wang received half a million dollars per year and a $1.1 million Manhattan condo in direct compensation, an indictment says. Wangs attorney Louis V. Fasulo did not immediately respond to requests for comment. She was sentenced to three years of supervised release in addition to her prison time and ordered to forfeit $1.4 billion. Guo was convicted in July and is awaiting sentencing. A spokesperson for the Southern District of New York did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Jes status. The co-conspirator remained at large over the summer. Miles Guo, also known as Guo Wengui, shown with Steve Bannon at a news conference in New York City in 2018. Guo was later arrested and convicted for running a $1 billion fraud scheme. Yvette Wang, his chief of staff, was sentenced to prison for her role in the operation. Who was Wang's boss? Exiled Chinese tycoon Guo Wengui convicted in billion-dollar fraud scheme How Guo, Wang profited from dissent Wangs boss, Guo, found fame online after fleeing from China to the United States in 2015, court filings say. He gave media interviews and posted videos on social media criticizing the Chinese Communist Party, according to an indictment. Nearly half a million people followed him on YouTube, according to archived posts. He used his status as a dissident and as a purported billionaire tycoon to coax investors into funding alleged new ventures that ranged from nonprofits critical of Chinese political leadership to membership in a club that allegedly curated world-class products, services and experiences but in fact provided no discernable membership benefits, court filings say. Court filings refer to her as Guos chief of staff and she helped manage several of Guos ventures. She helped oversee the sham club that cost up to $50,000 annually and GTV, a purported citizen journalism social media platform in which people invested $452 million, an indictment says. The vast majority of the funds intended for the platform combining big data, artificial intelligence, block-chain technology and real-time interactive communication were instead funneled to a relative of Guo, filings say. Guo, Wang and Je used approximately 500 accounts held in the names of 80 different entities to launder investors money, according to an indictment. The ringleader Guo faces decades in prison for overseeing the complex scheme, according to U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. Je, a dual citizen of Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, was charged 11 of the same charges as Guo but faces an additional 20 years maximum in prison for obstruction of justice. Contributing: Thao Nguyen Michael Loria is a national reporter on the USA TODAY breaking news desk. Contact him at mloria@usatoday.com, @mchael_mchael or on Signal at (202) 290-4585. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Exiled Chinese con mans henchwoman sentenced for $1B fraud scheme Authorities in China said they are monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, after a reported increase inside the country, according to Reuters. Although cases are increasing at a rapid rate, health officials say that the outbreak is not out of the ordinary and that the risk of another COVID-19 pandemic remains low. "The overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year, a spokesperson for the World Health Organization said, according to reporting from ABC News. In the United States, HMPV cases have seen an increase since November, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Dec. 28, 1.94% of weekly tests returned positive for HMPV. CDC officials confirmed to USA TODAY that it is monitoring conditions in China closely. "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.," the CDC said in a statement. With HMPV back in the news, here's what you need to know about the virus and how you can protect yourself. What is HMPV? According to the CDC, HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease and can be spread from person to person or through surfaces. Originally discovered in 2001, it forms part of the pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the agency says. What are the symptoms of HMPV? Similarly to other seasonal colds, symptoms include cough, nasal congestion, fever and shortness of breath, the CDC said. But these symptoms can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period of the virus can be three to six days, according to the CDC, and the groups at highest risk include younger children and adults 65 or older. Similarly to the flu, HMPV is seasonal; its circulation starts in winter and lasts through spring. Is there a treatment for HMPV? The CDC says there is no treatment of vaccines to tackle HMPV, but it did say medical care can be supportive. The Cleveland Clinic says treatments for the virus can include oxygen therapy if the patient has a hard time breathing. Can you prevent HMPV? Yes, HMPV can be prevented by taking some of the steps outlined by the CDC. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. For people who have cold-like symptoms, the CDC also recommended: Covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. Washing hands frequently and correctly (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds). Avoid sharing their cups and eating utensils with others. Refrain from kissing. Stay at home when sick. Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is HMPV? What you need to know as cases tick up in China, US Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), the new chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is planning to move legislation this week to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last year. A GOP congressional aide said the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act could get a vote on the House floor as soon as Thursday. The aide said the bill has support spanning the entire GOP conference and that it was also bipartisan, with a similar measure getting the support of around 40 Democrats last year. Last years bill did not pass Congress because then-Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) did not move on it. With a new Congress, were bringing it up early to send a strong message that the America Last foreign policy of the Biden era is over, the congressional aide said. This is just an opening act. The Hill reached out to Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) office for comment on whether the bill would move this week, and to the office of Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) for comment on whether the Senate plans to pick up the legislation. The bill, which would take effect 60 days after enactment, would sanction any individual working to investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute American citizens or an official from an allied U.S. country, including Israel. The legislation covers the 32-member Western security alliance NATO and the 19 major non-NATO countries, which include Israel, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, South Korea, the Philippines and Egypt. It would also rescind any funds the U.S. has designated for the ICC and prohibit any future money for the court. Mast said in a statement that the legislation sends a clear message to the International Criminal Court. We may not recognize you, but you sure as hell will recognize what happens when you target America or its allies, said Mast. The ICCs attempt to obstruct Israels right to defend itself has only prolonged the war and prevented the release of American hostages by boosting Hamas morale. The bill was introduced by Mast and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), and it has 17 other Republican co-sponsors. Roy said the ICC is an illegitimate body that has no business interfering with our sovereignty or that of our allies. Now it is engaged in a shameful lawfare campaign against Prime Minister Netanyahu for doing his duty to protect his fellow citizens from Hamas in the wake of the barbaric October 7th attacks, Roy said in a statement. Roy said the bill was not only about Israel but also about protecting American troops from political attacks from the ICC as President-elect Trump prepares to take office on Jan. 20. While I have full confidence that President Trump will stand for Israel with the strength and moral clarity that Biden has sorely lacked, this bill will ensure that no future administration after him will be able to give the ICC a free pass to attack our allies like this, he added. Republicans will hold the House, Senate and White House by the end of the month. Still, many Democrats are likely to object to the measure, especially more progressive lawmakers who have raised concerns about Israels devastating war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, where more than 46,000 people have died. The war began when Hamas invaded Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages, about 100 of whom are still in Gaza. The ICC, an independent court formed in 2002, issued arrest warrants in November after prosecutors sought the warrants last spring. The warrants are for Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Mohammed Deif, a key Hamas commander who Israel has claimed to have killed. Both the U.S. and Israel do not recognize the ICC, but the state of Palestine does, which the court says gives it jurisdiction. The Biden administration, Republicans and many Democrats have argued the ICC has no jurisdiction. Still, Washington has generally supported the ICC arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin related to his deporting children for the war in Ukraine. The arrest warrants complicate travel for Netanyahu, who cannot go to a country that is a member of the ICC without risk of 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 The Hill. Donald Trump visits the U.S.-Mexico border fence in Otay Mesa, Calif., in 2019. WASHINGTON The Republican-led House on Tuesday passed its first bill of the new Congress a strict border measure named for a 22-year-old Georgia nursing school student whose murder last year by an immigrant in the country illegally became a flashpoint in the 2024 presidential campaign. The 264-159 vote to pass the Laken Riley Act puts pressure on Senate Democrats to support the legislation when Republicans, who now control the upper chamber, bring it to the floor for an initial vote on Friday, what would have been Rileys 23rd birthday. All 52 Senate Republicans are co-sponsoring the bill, as is Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania. That means Republicans need seven more Senate Democrats to reach the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster. We welcome with open arms, any Democrat who wants to help us solve these problems because the American people demand and deserve it. Its overdue, Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters before the vote. In November, Jose Ibarra, a 26-year-old Venezuelan citizen who was in the United States illegally, was found guilty of kidnapping, assaulting and murdering Riley, while she was out for a jog near the University of Georgia campus in Athens. Ibarra was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Appearing on the campaign trail in Georgia with Rileys family members, Trump seized on the issue and blamed President Joe Bidens immigration policies for her murder. Trumps congressional allies highlighted that Ibarra had been cited for shoplifting by a local Georgia police department but Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, did not issue a detainer for Ibarra and he was not taken into custody. The bill, authored by Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., would change federal law to require ICE, operating under the Homeland Security Department, to issue detainers and take custody of people in the country illegally who commit theft-related crimes, including shoplifting. Were going to detain and deport illegal aliens who commit burglary, theft, larceny, shoplifting, certainly vicious and violent crime, and I cant believe anybody would be opposed to that, Johnson said. Last March, the House passed the Laken Riley Act on a 251 to 170 vote, with 37 Democrats most representing swing districts or running for statewide office joining all Republicans in voting yes. Among the Democrats backing the measure were then-Reps. Ruben Gallego of Arizona and Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, who both won election to the Senate in November. Then controlled by Democrats, the Senate in the last Congress did not take up the bill. More House Democrats voted for the Laken Riley Act this time around: 48 of them joined all Republicans present in voting aye. Laken Riley. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said Tuesday that Democrats in his chamber, including the two moderates from Georgia, will be under immense pressure to support the bill. People are going to have to make a decision. Its now a bipartisan bill; Fetterman has now signed on, Barrasso said, noting that Gallego and Slotkin are already on record supporting the bill. And were gonna see what the Georgia senators do too. This happened in Georgia," he said. "And Friday, the day of the vote here in the Senate, is actually Laken Rileys birthday. Senate Democrats planned to discuss the bill during their weekly lunch on Tuesday, according to Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. But he said his own view is that the legislation would complicate current immigration law. "I just don't think it's a good bill. I think it's going to make the immigration system written as is, much, much much more complicated, byzantine and confusing because of this new right it provides for attorneys general to litigate detainment cases in court," Murphy said Tuesday. "It's just not a well-constructed piece of legislation," he said. Members of Congress, the Supreme Court and other dignitaries gathered at the U.S. Capitol for a lying-in-state ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter. Vice President Kamala Harris delivered one of the eulogies for Carter, who died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Latest Developments Jan 7, 5:46 PM Carter to lie in state at Capitol until Thursday Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state at the Capitol from Tuesday evening until Thursday morning, allowing the public to pay respects. PHOTO: A U.S. flag is draped on the casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, as he lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) On Thursday morning, former presidents and other dignitaries will attend a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy. On Thursday afternoon, Carters body will return to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private service and private interment. Carter will be buried next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, who died on Nov. 19, 2023, at the age of 96. Jan 7, 5:48 PM 'Left the world better than he found it,' Harris says Former President Jimmy Carter was a president "ahead of his time," from passing over a dozen major pieces of legislation for environmental protection to establishing the Departments of Energy and Education, Vice President Kamala Harris said in her eulogy. PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a ceremony, as Jimmy Carter, the former President who died on December 29 at the age of 100, lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) From 1977 to 1981, Carter appointed more Black Americans to the federal bench than all his predecessors combined, and he appointed five times as many women, Harris highlighted. Carter also "established a new model for what it means to be a former president and leave an extraordinary post-presidential legacy," she said. From founding The Carter Center to his public health work to his tireless advocacy for peace and democracy, Harris said his works will echo for generations to come. PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter as Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: Former President Jimmy Carter lies in state at the US Capitol Rotunda in Washington, DC, January 7, 2025. (Saul Loeb/Pool via Reuters) Carter was the "all too rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty and grace," she said, noting how when he campaigned he slept at his supporters homes and shared a meal with them. PHOTO: Amy Carter attends a ceremony where the flag-draped casket of her father, former President Jimmy Carter, lies in state in the Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) Carter "loved our country. He lived his faith. He served the people. And he left the world better than he found it," Harris said. Carter had said he wanted to live long enough to cast his vote for Harris in the 2024 presidential election. The 100-year-old lifelong Democrat cast his absentee ballot in October. Jan 7, 5:38 PM 'Always willing to roll up his sleeves to get the job done,' House Speaker Mike Johnson House Speaker Mike Johnson also commended Carter's commitment to service in his eulogy. Johnson, who remarked he was 4 years old when Carter was sworn in, said the former president was someone who was humble and captured the imagination of the nation. PHOTO: House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks during a ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter as Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) He touted his work with Habitat for Humanity and said Carter was "always willing to roll up his sleeves to get the job done." "It's remarkable to think that one of the 45 men who has served as president and one of 13 who held the role in the nuclear age would humble himself to such service," Johnson said. Jan 7, 5:44 PM 'Making the lives of his fellow man better' New Senator Majority Leader John Thune highlighted former President Jimmy Carters work in his 44 years of post-presidency. PHOTO: U.S. Military Body Bearers carry the casket bearing the remains of former President Jimmy Carter into the Capitol Rotunda during a memorial service at the U.S. Capitol, on January 07, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Carter dedicated his time to Habitat for Humanity in his effort to provide affordable housing for those in need. "Jimmy Carter knew that his status as a former president could bring attention to good causes. Thats why he encouraged Habitat to make use of his name and image," Thune said. "But simply lending his name or maybe attending a gala or two wasnt Jimmy Carters style. He was here to get down in the weeds and the dirt, and he did that literally, on numerous Habitat builds." Carter could even be found on a construction site with a hard hat well into his 90s, Thune noted. Carter "focused on making the lives of his fellow man better," he said. Jan 7, 5:06 PM Service to begin at Capitol Former President Jimmy Carters casket has been placed on the Lincoln catafalque in the Rotunda, a stand that has been used for most memorial services at the Capitol, dating back to President Abraham Lincoln. A service for the 39th president will begin momentarily. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Supreme Court justices, members of Congress and ambassadors are among the dignitaries in attendance. Jan 7, 5:03 PM House cancels Wednesday votes The House canceled Wednesday votes in observance of former President Jimmy Carter lying in state at the Capitol. PHOTO: People watch as the casket containing the remains of former President Jimmy Carter passes as it moves toward the U.S. Capitol on a horse-drawn caisson on January 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Susan Walsh, Pool via Getty Images) PHOTO: People watch as casket of former President Jimmy Carter passes on a horse-drawn caisson on Pennsylvania Avenue on January 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Susan Walsh - Pool via Getty Images) The 39th president will lie in state at the Capitol from Tuesday evening to Thursday morning for the public to pay respects. The next votes in the House will be Thursday at 11:45 a.m., according to Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Jan 7, 5:10 PM Family, Carter Cabinet members serve as honorary pallbearers The Carter family and surviving members of former President Jimmy Carters Cabinet have gathered at the top of the steps of the Capitol to serve as honorary pallbearers and help bring Carters casket inside the Capitol. PHOTO: The casket of former President Jimmy Carter is carried to the US Capitol Rotunda, where he will lie in state, in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, is carried by a body bearer team, to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, Jan. 7, 2025. (Fabrizio Bensch/Reuters) PHOTO: Amy Carter (C), daughter of Jimmy Carter, watches the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter arrive at the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Jan 7, 5:09 PM Carter arrives at Capitol Former President Jimmy Carters casket, in a horse-drawn caisson, has arrived at the U.S. Capitol. Military body bearers will carry the casket into the Capitol Rotunda. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travelling by a horse-drawn caisson arrives to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travels by a horse-drawn caisson to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Susan Walsh/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the US Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Mark Schiefelbein/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) At 4:30 p.m. ET, members of Congress, the Supreme Court, the Cabinet, the Joint Chiefs and other officials will come together at the Capitol for a lying in state ceremony. Vice President Kamala Harris, Senator Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson are expected to deliver eulogies and lay wreaths. PHOTO: The U.S. Army's Caisson Detachment carries the casket during the funeral procession for Former President Jimmy Carter on January 7, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Brendan McDermid, Pool via Getty Images) Jan 7, 4:21 PM Motorcade makes emotional stop at Navy Memorial Former President Jimmy Carters motorcade made an emotional stop at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor Carters service as a lieutenant in the Navy. PHOTO: The U.S. Marines stand in formation on the day when the casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Brendan Mcdermid, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travels by a horse-drawn caisson to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: Members of the U.S. Navy line up to march with the casket of former President Jimmy Carter before it arrives at the U.S. Navy Memorial to travel to the Capitol in Washington to lie in state, Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: A horse-drawn caisson carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter as the State Funeral Procession departs the US Navy Memorial and heads to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on Jan. 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Ting Shen/AFP via Getty Images) Carters childhood dream was to be in the Navy and he went on to graduate from the United States Naval Academy in 1946. Carter resigned from the Navy in 1953 after his fathers death so he could return to the family farm. Carters casket was transferred from the hearse to a horse-drawn military caisson for a funeral procession that reproduces the walk Carter took with his family on the day of his inauguration. On that January day in 1977, Carter walked the mile-and-a-half inaugural parade route to the White House, rather than ride in a limousine, bringing a common touch to his presidency. PHOTO: Family members look on as the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol on Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via Getty Images) Navy officers stood silently along the snow-lined street, witnessing the casket's transfer to the caisson. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: A horse-drawn caisson carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter as the State Funeral Procession departs the US Navy Memorial and heads to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on Jan. 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Ting Shen/AFP via Getty Images) The Carter family will walk behind the casket as it heads from the U.S. Navy Memorial to the U.S. Capitol. Jan 7, 3:03 PM Motorcade leaves Joint Base Andrews Former President Jimmy Carters motorcade has left Joint Base Andrews in Maryland en route to Washington, D.C., to begin several days of services in the nations capital. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former US President Jimmy Carter departs in a hearse during following an arrival ceremony in Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, Jan. 7, 2025. (Samuel Corum/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: A joint services military body bearer team carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter on arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Jan. 7, 2025. (Steve Helber/AP) PHOTO: Members of former President Jimmy Carter's family including his grandson Jason Carter (2nd-R) and wife Kate depart Special Air Mission 39 as his casket is transferred to a hearse, Jan. 7, 2025, in Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) Click here to read the rest of the blog. The Midtown Redevelopment Authority spent $22 million in affordable housing funds on an office building and accompanying garage, called One Emancipation Center, where no one lives. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Houstons Midtown development zone for two decades has pursued an ambitious goal: slowing gentrification in Third Ward by buying hundreds of lots in and around the historic Black neighborhood, hoping to build affordable homes on the land. But the Midtown Redevelopment Authority repeatedly has put its dedicated housing funds a third of its revenues to questionable use. Hundreds of the lots it purchased still sit vacant; many have been that way for a decade or more. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A former Midtown executive and two vendors are facing felony charges for allegedly misusing $8.5 million in housing funds over nearly a decade. They were supposed to be maintaining the lots, but often sought payment for work they didnt do, prosecutors said. None of the three accused have entered pleas in the case. And a Houston Chronicle investigation this week detailed another questionable use of Midtowns housing funds: A $22 million office building and parking garage that no one lives in. Here are four key takeaways from the investigation: 1. A major investment The five-story office tower at Emancipation and Elgin is Midtowns single largest housing expense to date. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Emails show city attorneys repeatedly said the tower and garage were not providing affordable housing, as state law requires. Midtown justified the choice in part because it considered 20 affordable apartments, built simultaneously on an adjacent block for $6 million, part of the project. WHAT IS A TIRZ?: What development zones are and how Houston uses them to drive growth If Midtown had put the money it spent on the office building and garage into housing, at the per-unit cost of that adjacent 20-apartment complex, a Chronicle analysis shows, it could have built 72 additional units. Midtown officials say their use of housing funds for the project was proper and did not slow the agencys broader housing development efforts. 2. Only half full Midtown officials said the tower would be Houstons central clearinghouse for everything related to affordable housing. But officials now acknowledge no entity affiliated with the city of Houston or Harris County the regions largest providers of affordable housing ever committed to move in. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Midtown has not only failed to fill a majority of the office tower with housing-focused tenants, as it planned but it has fallen short of even post-pandemic projections of how fast the building would sign tenants of any kind. Completed in 2021, the building alternately called One Emancipation Center or the Affordable Housing Operations Center is about half occupied. Its second-largest tenant, a health clinic, closed last year. Some nonprofits said they considered moving in, but could not afford the rent. 3. The Garnet Coleman connection Former state Rep. Garnet Coleman, who represented Third Ward and Midtown in the Legislature for three decades, has been the key driving force and strategist behind Midtowns housing ambitions. He also had long envisioned the office tower, viewing it as a catalyst project for the neighborhood that would help nonprofits collaborate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When Midtown decided to build the project, it hired Colemans nonprofit the Center for Civic and Public Policy Priorities to lead the work. CCPPI took in very little money in the first few years of its existence, but has collected $9.1 million since signing its first contract with Midtown about $8.1 million of which was from Midtown, records show. Coleman, who retired from the Legislature in 2022 in poor health, now is CCPPIs director of strategy and innovation. CCPPI has its offices in One Emancipation Center, but pays no rent on its second floor space nor a corner office on the top floor labeled CCPPI-Garnet Coleman in Midtown paperwork. The fifth floor office shows no signs of regular use, and Coleman said it would make sense to lease it to another tenant. Of CCPPIs rent-free arrangement, he said he recruited all of the buildings tenants, proving the sweat equity value of the nonprofits work. Midtown officials said CCPPI was not asked to pay rent because it is a vendor for the agency, tasked with executing its housing program. Coleman added that, while he is proud of the building, Midtown should not have funded it with affordable housing dollars. Midtown officials said the buildings housing-focused mission justified that choice. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 4. 'Community' building? Many Third Ward civic leaders recall being excited to hear Midtown officials say One Emancipation Centers first floor would be devoted to retail space, a crucial need in the community. But then a health clinic occupied the entire first floor. The clinic closed last year, so local leaders now want Midtown to create affordable spaces for entrepreneurs in its place. Midtown, however, said it wont consider retail proposals until after the clinics lease ends in November 2028. Midtown also initially touted the vibrant community gathering spots the building would provide. But some civic club leaders repeatedly tried and failed to book the buildings second floor community room. Building managers said the space is for use by the tenants of the building first. About a year ago, that community room briefly became 3131 Gallery, whose inaugural show was of Colemans personal art collection. Among the artworks in the show were some of those depicted on the One Emancipation Center garage, in a 120-foot installation honoring the founding artists of Project Row Houses, the internationally known Third Ward nonprofit. After the Midtown board in May 2020 approved a $389,523 construction change order to install and light those artworks again using housing funds some neighbors were displeased. Funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter started on Saturday morning in Carters home state of Georgia, leading up to his official state funeral on Jan. 9 at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. After Carter's death on Dec. 29, President Joe Biden declared Jan. 9 as a national day of mourning, closing all executive departments and agencies of the federal government on the same day. Biden also ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for 30 days. Carter has been lying in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Georgia since Saturday, and his remains are scheduled to leave for Washington, D.C., before lying in state at the United States Capitol rotunda on Tuesday. Here's what to know about Carter's funeral services this week. Live updates: Jimmy Carter's remains arrive at US Capitol in dramatic farewell Caisson rolling again: Famed military horse unit resumes operation for former President Jimmy Carter Jimmy Carter's funeral schedule Here is the full list of events scheduled to take place from Jan. 7-9, according to a news release from the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington (all times are in Eastern Standard Time and subject to change): Tuesday, Jan. 7 6 a.m.: Lying in repose ends at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, Georgia. 11:30 a.m.: President Carter leaves the Carter Presidential Center for the final time with a departure ceremony. The family then accompanies the remains to Dobbins Air Reserve Base outside Atlanta. 12:10 p.m.: Late president and family members arrive at Dobbins Air Reserve Base and board Special Air Mission 39. 12:45 p.m.: Special Air Mission 39 departs for Washington, D.C. 2:15 p.m.: Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, and Carters remains are transferred to the hearse. 2:45 p.m.: Motorcade departs for the U.S. Navy Memorial. 3:30 p.m.: Carter's remains are transferred from the hearse to a horse-drawn caisson for a procession to the U.S. Capitol. Military body bearers will carry the casket into the Capitol Rotunda. 4:30 p.m.: Members of Congress will pay their respects during a service in the Rotunda. 8:30 p.m. to midnight: Lying in state opens to the public, according to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. Wednesday, Jan. 8 The late president will continue to lie in state and the public is invited to pay respects from 7 a.m. on Jan. 8 until 7 a.m. on Jan. 9. Preorder now: Celebrate Jimmy Carter's remarkable life and contributions with our new book Thursday, Jan. 9 7 a.m.: Lying in state ends. 8:45 a.m.: Carter Family departs from Blair House via motorcade. 9 a.m.: Departure ceremony from the U.S. Capitol. 9:15 a.m.: Motorcade leaves for Washington National Cathedral. 9:30 a.m.: Carter's remains and family members arrive at the Washington National Cathedral. 9:55 a.m.: Carters remains are brought into the cathedral during a brief arrival ceremony. 10 a.m.: National funeral service. 11 a.m.: Departure from the Washington National Cathedral. 11:15 a.m.: Motorcade leaves for Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. 11:45 a.m.: Late president and family members arrive at Joint Base Andrews and board Special Air Mission 39. 12:15 p.m.: Special Air Mission 39 leaves for Lawson Army Airfield in Fort Moore, Georgia. 2 p.m.: Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Lawson Army Airfield and Carters remains are transferred to the hearse. 2:30 p.m.: Motorcade departs for Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia. 3:30 p.m.: Arrival ceremony at Maranatha Baptist Church. 3:45 p.m.: Private funeral service. 4:30 p.m.: Departure from Maranatha Baptist Church. 4:45 p.m.: Late president and family members travel by motorcade through downtown Plains. The public is invited to line the motorcade route as Carter's remains are brought through his hometown. 5:20 p.m.: Motorcade arrives at Carter's residence for a private interment, before which the U.S. Navy will conduct a missing man formation flyover in honor of former President Carters naval service and time as commander-in-chief. Follow Washington: Sign up for USA TODAY's On Politics newsletter for all news and analysis from the capital. This story has been updated to add new information. Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: When is the Jimmy Carter funeral? See full schedule before DC service 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. 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. 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. Stefanie Damron Its the worst nightmare that you wish you could wake up from. And it just keeps going and going and going, Lisa Damron told Dateline. I just wanna know where my babys at. I just want my baby home. Lisas daughter, 13-year-old Stefanie Damron, has been missing from her New Sweden, Maine home since September 23. Shes a wonderful girl, Lisa said. I cant believe this is all happening. The day was like any other. Sometime in the early afternoon, Lisa went with her husband to fill out paperwork for a job application. Four of their six children, including Stefanie, stayed home with their grandfather. The Damron children are homeschooled. Before we left and stuff, she came up to me was giving me love and hugged me and told me she loved me and kissed me on the cheek, Lisa remembered. I kissed her back and told her I love her and, Ill be back. Stefanie Damron Lisa says she began receiving text messages at around 3:00 p.m. from her eldest daughter that Stefanie had left the house. Sometimes when, you know, she gets upset or just wants to be left alone, she would go out in the woods, she said. They went out looking for her and stuff. They couldnt find her. According to Lisa, Stefanie had gotten into an argument with her older sister about chores before she ran off. They were arguing about who was gonna do what, she explained. After the argument, Stefanie went outside where her grandfather was doing maintenance work on the front door. He said that she turned around, she looked back at him she had tears in her eyes, Lisa said. And she turned around and just kept walking. Lisa says Stefanie then walked into the woods by the house, an area with which she was extremely familiar. There is a path through the area that leads to the main road. The family heard a vehicle pass by shortly after Stefanie ran off, although nobody saw it. They do not know if it was a vehicle, a four-wheeler, a motorcycle or something, she said. By the time anybody got up there, the vehicle was already gone. Shortly after learning Stefanie had run off, Lisa headed home to help look for her. I started looking for her, going up and down the roads and everything because, I mean, she has done this before, she said. Lisa told Dateline that there have been two other instances where Stefanie has run off but not like this. Ive been able to find her the times she did it before, but this time I couldnt find her, she said. Stefanies family reported her missing to the Maine State Police (MSP) the next day. MSP Lieutenant Darrin Crane told Dateline the initial police response for Stefanie was extensive. Several K-9 teams went very early on. Weve also gone back with cadaver dogs, he said. We have talked to neighbors repeatedly just seeing if they remember anything, or have heard anything, or saw anything suspicious that day or around that time frame. Stefanie Damron missing poster According to Lt. Crane, the MSP has done several days worth of large-scale grid searching in the area which he described as extremely dense. More recently, the start of winter has made searching more difficult. Thats a hurdle for us, the lieutenant said. We will, when weather permits, continue to search the local area physically. That we havent given up on that. According to Lt. Crane, the FBI offered their resources to the MSP not long after Stefanie went missing. The Major Crimes Unit will continue to investigate the case in partnership with the FBIs CARD team, the MSP wrote on a Facebook post from November 2024. The CARD team is the FBIs Child Abduction Rapid Deployment team which specializes in cases where a child has been abducted by someone other than a family member. The FBI has listed Stefanie on their website, and is offering a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the safe return of Stefanie Damron and/or information leading to the arrest and prosecution of anyone involved in her disappearance. Lieutenant Crane would not go into details of the investigation and says his department has not made a determination on whether foul play is involved in Stefanies disappearance. The fact that we dont know either where Stefanie is today or what happened to Stefanie, then we we believe anything is still possible, he told Dateline. From an accident out in the woods to foul play were taking it all serious and following up on any lead that points us in one direction or the other. Stefanie Damron Lisa Damron says the last few months have been agonizing wondering where Stefanie is. I wished I knew to God where she was at because she wouldnt be there, she said. She would be here at home where I know shes safe. Stefanie is 50 and 130 lbs. She has green eyes and brown hair. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a long-sleeved blue shirt, and black Harley Davidson hiking boots. Stefanie would be 14 years old today. Anyone with information about Stefanies disappearance is asked to call the Maine State Police at 1-800-924-2261 or (207) 532-5400. You may also contact the FBIs tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. If you have a story to share with Dateline, please submit it here. A security guard at the Honduran consulate near Atlanta was shot dead on Monday by a man who refused to hand over his weapon before entering the building and instead fired on the security guard, the Honduran foreign minister said. The man, who was not identified by police, killed the guard and wounded another person before he was taken into custody, said city of Doraville spokesperson Emily Heenan. Doraville police were called to the scene of the shooting at the suburban office park, about 16 miles north of downtown Atlanta at around 2:30 p.m., according to Heenan. A U.S. State Department spokesperson strongly condemned the attack in a statement Monday evening. "Attacks and threats against diplomatic facilities are unacceptable," the spokesperson said. "We are in contact with Honduran consulate officials and consistent with our obligations under the Vienna Conventions, the Department is committed to the security and safety of diplomatic facilities and the diplomats who work in them." The Honduran consulate in Georgia did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Heenan told USA TODAY more information on the suspected shooter and victims would be available soon. Doraville police are holding the suspect and the wounded person was taken to a hospital for treatment. Honduran Foreign Minister Eduardo Enrique Reina told a press conference in Tegucigalpa the suspect was a Honduran national. The private security guard was of Mexican origin. "The individual refused to hand over his weapon and unfortunately pulled out his weapon, mortally wounding the security guard with five shots," Reina said. The security guard managed to close the door, preventing the armed man from entering and possibly sparing more victims, the foreign minister said. A Honduran witness waiting to enter the consulate noted the fleeing suspect's license plate number and reported it to police, Reina said. Contributing: Reuters This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Security guard shot dead at Honduran consulate in Atlanta A Ukrainian refugee family have received the heartwarming news that their son is alive nearly three years after he was captured by Russian forces while battling the invading forces in his homeland. Valeriia and Roman Biletskiy fled to Washington state at the start of the brutal war in February 2022 along with seven of their children. Their other child, Roman Jr., instead remained, and enlisted to defend Ukraine. However, three months later, he was captured by Russian forces and later, presumed dead. But on Monday 30 December, the couple saw a picture shared by Ukraines media that showed their son Roman Biletskiy Jr., 25, alive, and sitting at the back of a bus with a group of men who had just been freed from a Russian prison. His release came as Russia and Ukraine conducted a major prisoner exchange that day with each side freeing at least 150 prisoners of war a swap aided by The United Arab Emirates, according to Russias Defence Ministry. Biletskiy Jr. called his family immediately after his release and told his parents: Mom, dont cry. Mom, Im at home. [We are] very happy," shared his father Roman Sr. to Seattle news station KING5 . Roman Biletskiy Jr., 25, (pictured left) was freed in a major prisoner swap on December 30 his mum Valeriia Biletskiy (pictured right) is elated at her sons return (Facebook) According to a fundraiser , organized by the father, the Biletskiy family were forced to abandon their home in the southern Kherson region of Ukraine after Russian military tanks entered their rural town, moved into their neighbors homes, and committed several atrocities. They allege that this included the alleged sexual assault and murder of Valerias sister-in-law and torture of her 3-year-old son. Valeriia told Cascade PBS that her sister-in-law was brutally killed because her husband was a police officer and her son was choked and suffered burns to his forehead from lit cigarettes by Russian soldiers. Roman Biletskiy Jr., 25, (pictured right) was assumed dead after his family was mistakenly notified by letter of his death. But two months later, the Red Cross informed them he was alive (Facebook) Such tragedy prompted their son Roman who was 22 at the time to enlist in the Ukrainian military and defend Ukraineright away as per the fundraiser page. Meanwhile, his parents and siblings fled to the U.S. to settle in Orting, Pierce County, shared Cascade PBS. However, things took a frightening turn during his deployment, and in May 2022, Roman Jr., was taken into Russian captivity while defending civilians in Mariupol stated the fundraiser. In an even more shocking twist, the Biletskiy family was mistakenly informed on May 17 that Roman Jr. had perished after receiving an official letter and award from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Valeriia went through excruciating pain and grief to learn two months later her son [was being held as] a prisoner of war and [was] alive, stated the fundraiser. Roman Jr., was released in a major prison swap between Russia and Ukraine an exchange that was partly orchestrated by the UAE (Telegram / @Volodymyr Zelensky/A) The Red Cross reportedly reached out to the family to inform them that Roman was alive, reported Cascade PBS. This was further confirmed by a video of their son inside a Russian prison in February 2023. She told Cascade PBS in September 2024: Its a dream to get my son out of captivity and to go back to Ukraine to meet him there in our homeland. But Valeriia is uncertain of her familys future and if they will ever be able to return home. Valeriia has been running an art shop in Orting since settling there and the family have urged anyone able to support them with rehabilitating their son to donate no matter how big or small. The Independent contacted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys office and the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights for comment. Justice Carol A. Corrigan, left, and Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero of the California Supreme Court. The high court on Monday overturned a Central Valley woman's 2018 murder conviction, citing gender bias in the law. (Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times) The California Supreme Court has overturned a Central Valley woman's murder conviction in the 2018 killing of her 2-month-old son, ruling that the law often holds victims of domestic violence to an unfair double standard in the deaths of their children. The court on Monday ordered the woman, Brittney Collins, to be resentenced, and family violence experts said the ruling is an important step toward more just treatment for mothers under the law. A Kern County jury convicted Collins after her boyfriend, Matthew Norwood, fatally assaulted their son Abel in a methamphetamine-fueled rage, court records show. Although it was Norwood who slammed Abel against the wall or the floor of their Tehachapi mobile home breaking his arm, leg and ribs, lacerating his liver and cracking his skull, according to court papers local authorities alleged Collins was legally liable for failing to protect him. "Moms the person that takes care of the baby," court records show detectives told Collins after the incident. "Moms the person that protects their baby. Right? Prosecutors argued Collins knew Norwood was dangerous because he'd brutalized her throughout her pregnancy, choking her, kneeing her in the stomach, slamming her head into the wall, and pushing her to the ground in an attempt to cause a stillbirth. According to court records, when Collins was asked how her boyfriend could inflict violence on an infant, she replied: "He chokes me so why would he not choke a baby? The trial court sentenced Collins to 15 years to life following her conviction. On her first attempt to overturn the conviction, the court of appeals said she knew Abel would be fussy the day after his 2-month vaccines, and should have predicted Norwood's fatal outburst in response. Read more:Massive budget cuts leave California domestic violence survivors with few options But the high court took the opposite view of the evidence, drawing extensively from new research into the dynamics of familyviolence, its prevalence among women convicted of murder and manslaughter, and the "criminalization of motherhood" under "failure to protect" statutes across the U.S. "There is no evidence that Collins knew with substantial certainty that Norwood intended to [kill Abel]," Judge Kelli M. Evans wrote in her decision. "Collins (and her grandmother) were under the impression that Norwood would be changing and feeding Abel as he had done before." Norwood's ongoing abuse he had a previous conviction for domestic violence would have made Collins acutely aware of the danger he posed to her if she tried to intervene, the judge said. "It is problematic to use the fact that an individual has been abused by their partner to hold that individual criminally liable for their partner's conduct," Evans wrote. Academic researchers have identified hundreds of California women incarcerated for murder or manslaughter in cases that involved intimate partner violence. Andrea N. Cimino, co-author of a 2024 Stanford Law Criminal Justice Center report cited in Judge Goodwin H. Liu's concurrence in the recent case, said "failure to protect" laws "unfairly target women," particularly abuse victims such as Collins. Cimino asked: "Why is she criminalized for the act that he did?" The Stanford study identified many other similar cases where woman were found liable for child deaths, even when they were not present when the killing occurred or were actively trying to stop the act as it happened. Some could not defend their children because they'd been beaten or strangled unconscious by the same attacker. Like Collins, who was in her late 20s when her son was killed, many abuse victims are also dependent on the men who abused them and their families for housing, money and food. Collins had no power to make Norwood leave the Willow Springs mobile home park where they lived with her grandmother, and no means to escape him after he drained their accounts, court documents show. She had also nearly died during Abel's emergency cesarean birth, and developed a serious infection after it. Although she worried his father might be abusing him, she relied on Norwood to help care for the baby while she recovered, according to the appellate court record. These dynamics are common in abusive relationships that turn deadly, experts say. Yet, they are still not well accounted for in the law or clearly understood by the legal system something experts hope this ruling may change. Read more: 'I'm gonna O.J. you': How the Simpson case changed perceptions and the law on domestic violence "This is the kind of case that were seeing more and more of," said professor David A. Sklansky of the Stanford Law School. "The court used this case as an opportunity to provide guidance," rather than strike down the statute entirely. While the decision doesn't overturn failure-to-protect homicide, or reject the legal principle behind it, it illustrates how the law is often used unjustly, the professor said. "Assumptions about what Collins should have done based on outmoded, gendered notions of a mother's as compared to a father's role in caring for a child are not proper in determining a mother's liability for murder based on failure to protect," Evans wrote. "Prosecutors and courts must take care to ensure that this type of gender bias does not infect our criminal justice system." 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. By Jonathan Stempel NEW YORK (Reuters) - 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 on 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, ten 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. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis) Winter Storm Cora is set to spread a wintry mess of snow and ice across the South. For the latest on this storm, check out our most current forecast here. A map of some of Houston's two dozen tax increment reinvestment zones. Houston Chronicle/City of Houston Houstons Midtown development zone has spent hundreds of millions of dollars in the last three decades on streets and parks projects within its boundaries and on affordable housing initiatives in Third Ward. Some of the agencys dedicated housing funds were put to questionable use, a Houston Chronicle investigation published this week found, in the form of a $22 million office building and parking garage where no one lives. A former Midtown executive and two of the agencys landscaping vendors also were charged last summer with felonies for allegedly misusing $8.5 million in housing funds. The former executive, through his attorney, denied the charges; attorneys for the vendors declined comment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But what is a development zone anyway? And where does Midtown get its money? In short, Midtown is a TIRZ a tax increment reinvestment zone. In a TIRZ, part of the city property taxes generated each year are set aside to be spent only within the zone, rather than sent to City Hall to be spent anywhere in Houston. In Midtowns case, Houston ISD and Houston Community College also participate in the zone, cranking up the cash available for projects; Harris County used to participate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Midtown was created by Houston City Council, and the mayor and council appoint five of the nine members of its volunteer governing board. HISD, the county and the local state representative and state senator appoint the other four members. The agency is run by a team of full-time staff. Heres a little more detail on how TIRZs work: When a city creates a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, property values inside the zone say, $300 million when council members vote to create it are frozen. The city will usually collect taxes only on those pre-existing values, not on any new growth that happens after the TIRZ goes into effect. As new projects are built in the zone, property values rise. But the taxes raised from this growing value typically dont go to the city. This new tax revenue is set aside to be spent only inside the zone. In a few decades, that $300 million zone could add $800 million or more in value meaning most of the taxes generated there stay inside the zone. The idea is that these trapped dollars will pay for public improvements, spurring private development. Texas law says cities are supposed to take this approach only when revitalization wouldnt otherwise be possible in the reasonably foreseeable future. In theory, after a zone helps turn a stagnant area into a prosperous one, it then expires and all the taxes paid there once again go to the city a windfall of cash. In Houston, however, only one zone has ever expired. In fact, the City Council in recent years has tripled the area inside these zones, and extended the lives of most of them. Read this 2022 Chronicle investigation to find out why. Midtown, created in 1994, is Houstons second-oldest zone. It, too, has repeatedly grown by annexing territory and had its lifespan extended; it is slated to expire in 2050. Some zones fund housing Now what about the housing money? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Because Midtown was formed by petition area landowners submitted paperwork to City Hall asking the council to create it a third of its annual revenues are devoted to affordable housing by law. That provision, added to state law in 1989, applies only to petition zones created in Harris County Midtown and five other Houston zones. (A few other local zones also voluntarily put funds toward affordable housing.) WHAT IS A TIRZ?: What are development zones and how Houston uses them to drive growth Almost all of the zones that set aside funds for housing send this cash to City Hall for city housing officials to manage including Uptown, which includes the Galleria and is by far the states most valuable zone, and thus the most lucrative source of these local housing funds. Midtown, however, negotiated to keep its housing funds, an effort led by state Rep. Garnet Coleman, who represented the area in the Legislature for three decades before retiring in 2022. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While TIRZ funds in most cases must be spent within each zones boundaries, the affordable housing funds the agencies generate can be spent anywhere in the city, and Midtown is no exception. That let Midtown implement Colemans vision of accumulating land in and around Third Ward outside the zones boundaries in the hopes of slowing gentrification in the historic Black neighborhood. For more on Colemans role in Midtowns housing ambitions, read this weeks investigation. A history of mismanagement And what of the TIRZ housing funds that other zones sent to City Hall? The city often managed these funds poorly, past Chronicle investigations found. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A 2017 investigation found that nearly half of the $96 million the city spent from those funds over the prior decade went to administrative overhead or federal fines. And repeated questions from the Chronicle about financial discrepancies led the city to discover $46 million was available for new projects, tens of millions more than officials thought. TIRZ 101: Top 5 things to know about Houston's questionable use of TIRZs At the time, the single largest housing-related use of the TIRZ housing funds was the Houston Land Bank. A 2018 investigation found that program, too, had been mismanaged: Dozens of homes were sold to buyers whose incomes were too high to qualify, and some buyers had quickly sold their homes or were renting them out in violation of program rules. Nicki Minaj in 2023. Nicki Minaj's former manager has accused the rap superstar of berating and hitting him multiple times while she was on tour in Detroit. In a lawsuit, Brandon Jovan Garrett alleged that Minaj, 42, whose real name is Onika Maraj, assaulted him April 21 after a concert at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The lawsuit, filed Friday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, accuses Minaj of assault, battery and intentional emotional distress. Her company, Pink Personality Inc., is also named as a defendant. An attorney for Minaj did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. Garrett, who described himself as Minaj's "day to day manger," says in the suit that on April 21, while he was on his way back from buying ice cream that Minaj requested, her head of security summoned him to her dressing room. Minaj was in the room with the head of security and five other members of her team and was upset about the way jobs were being handled among her employees, according to the suit. A member of Minajs team then asked Garrett why another employee was picking up her prescriptions. Garrett said he had someone else pick up the prescription because Minaj wanted it immediately and he was busy assisting her in the dressing room during performances, the suit says. Minaj became enraged by Garrett's answers and reaction, the lawsuit says. Garrett's response provoked her "rage" even more, and she began yelling expletives at Garrett, the lawsuit says. Minaj called Garrett crazy and said that he had lost his mind and that if her husband was there, he would knock out" his teeth, it says. Youre a dead man walking. You just f----- up your whole life and you will never be anyone, Ill make sure of it, the lawsuit says Minaj told Garrett. Minaj physically attacked Garrett, the lawsuit says, open-handedly" striking him "on the right side of his face, causing his head to swing backwards as his hat flew off his head." The lawsuit alleges she hit him on his right wrist, causing him to drop documents he was holding, before she kicked him out of the room. Garrett then locked himself in a bathroom for hours because he feared for his safety, the suit says. The next morning, Garrett received a text saying he would not be riding the tour bus from Detroit to Chicago, he said in the suit. Garrett said in the lawsuit that he called Detroit police from the airport and was told he would have to file a police report in person. Garrett returned to Detroit and filed a police report before he returned home to Los Angeles, according to the lawsuit. Detroit police confirmed Monday that Garrett filed a report. Police said a warrant request had been sent to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office. The prosecutor's office said in a statement Monday that the warrant was denied because of "insufficient evidence to prove that a crime has been committed." The suit alleges that Minaj abused her position of authority and berated, threatened, used profanities, and violently struck Garrett multiple times. Her actions were done with intent to cause severe emotional distress or with conscious disregard to the probability Garrett would suffer severe emotional distress." He is seeking a jury trial. This undated photo provided by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts in December 2024 shows North Carolina Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin. (North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts via AP) RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) North Carolina's highest court blocked on Tuesday the certification of a November election result for one of its own seats so it can review legal arguments by a trailing candidate who contends over 60,000 ballots that were cast shouldn't be counted. The decision by the Republican-dominated state Supreme Court to issue the temporary stay is a setback for Democratic Associate Justice Allison Riggs. Election results show Riggs ahead of GOP challenger Jefferson Griffin by just 734 votes from over 5.5 million ballots cast. The ultimate winner gets an eight-year term on a Supreme Court where five of the seven current justices are registered Republicans. The State Board of Elections dismissed last month Griffin's written protests challenging the ballots. That initiated a timeline in which the board would issue a certificate confirming Riggs' election this Friday ending the litigation unless a court stepped in. Tuesday's order stops such certification and tells Griffin and the board to file legal briefs with the justices over the next two weeks. Lawyers for Griffin, who is a judge on the intermediate-level state Court of Appeals, initially asked the state Supreme Court to intervene three weeks ago. But the elections board quickly moved the matter to federal court, saying Griffin's appeals involved matters of federal voting and voting rights laws. Griffin disagreed, and so did U.S. District Judge Richard Myers, who on Monday returned the case to the state Supreme Court. Myers a nominee to the bench by Donald Trump wrote that Griffins protests raised unsettled questions of state law and had tenuous connections to federal law. Hours later, Griffin's attorneys asked the state Supreme Court for the temporary stay, which the court granted. In the absence of a stay from federal court, this matter should be addressed expeditiously because it concerns certification of an election, Tuesday's order read. The order said that Riggs recused herself from the matter and that Associate Justice Anita Earls, the other Democrat on the court, opposed the stay in part because the public interest requires that the Court not interfere with the ordinary course of democratic processes as set by statute and the state constitution. Attorneys for the State Board of Elections and Riggs quickly filed appeals notices for Myers decision with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The state board later Tuesday asked the appeals court to direct Myers to take back the litigation from the state Supreme Court and block its return to the state court while the matter is appealed. Barring intervention by federal appeals judges, the state Supreme Court would essentially be asked to decide the winner for one of its own seats with the potential of the Republican majority reversing the outcome of the election results. A Griffin legal brief said that he would anticipate winning the race if the ballots he contends are unlawful are excluded from the tally, which already has been subject to two recounts. The state GOP has said that Griffin and the party are seeking to ensure every lawfully cast vote is counted. Democratic allies of Riggs have accused Griffin and the state GOP of trying to overturn legitimate election results. Riggs deserves her certificate of election and we are only in this position due to Jefferson Griffin refusing to accept the will of the people, state Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton said in a news release. Most of the ballots that Griffin is challenging came from voters whose registration records lacked either a drivers license number or the last four digits of a Social Security number which a state law has required be sought in registration applications since 2004. Other large categories of votes that Griffin is challenging were cast by overseas voters who have never lived in the U.S. but whose parents were deemed North Carolina residents; and by military or overseas voters who did not provide copies of photo identification with their ballots. Attorneys for Riggs and the state board have said removing these votes would violate federal and state laws and the U.S. Constitution, and they have stated that Griffin hasn't presented evidence that a single voter that he has challenged from within these broad categories is ineligible to vote. The state election board that dismissed Griffin's protests is composed of three Democrats and two Republicans. The Supreme Court in the nation's ninth-largest state has been a partisan flash point in recent years in court battles involving redistricting, photo voter identification and other voting rights. President Joe Biden gave the steelworkers union a victory by blocking the purchase of US Steel (USSX34.SA) by Japans Nippon Steel (NPSCY) on Jan. 3. But that wont necessarily protect vulnerable steelworker jobs, which is a hot political issue whether an election is underway or its the off-season. Biden is essentially punting the issue to incoming President Donald Trump, whos likely to use import tariffs to protect domestic steelmakers and their workers. That may not accomplish much either, however. During Trumps first term, tariffs may have supported a small number of American jobs in favored industries, but they raised costs and killed jobs in other industries, for a net effect that was slightly worse than doing nothing. Trump now has a chance to improve on his first-term performance. After Biden blocked the Nippon-US Steel mashup through an executive order, the two firms sued to overturn Bidens order and allow the buyout to move forward. In two separate lawsuits, the firms challenged the legal basis for Bidens order and accused the United Steelworkers union of colluding with a third company, Cleveland-Cliffs (CLF), to prevent the Nippon purchase so Cliffs could buy US Steel at a lower price and establish a monopoly in some corners of the domestic steel market. Analysts think the lawsuits have slim odds of success. The saga began in 2023 when Cleveland-Cliffs tried to buy competitor US Steel for $7.3 billion. US Steel rejected the offer as too low and started looking for an alternate buyer or another type of deal to help it build scale and garner fresh investment in more modern technology. In December 2023, US Steel and Nippon announced a deal in which the Japanese giant would buy the American icon for $14.9 billion, a 45% improvement on the prior offer. There was one catch: The deal would need US government approval since a foreign firm cannot buy an American company if it might create national security risks. Last year, Joe Biden, Donald Trump, and Kamala Harris all came out against the deal, basically saying US Steel should remain in American hands because well, just because. The real reason was union opposition to the deal and worries about losing union votes in bellwether Pennsylvania during the 2024 presidential election. Most business analysts see no national security risk in the purchase since Japan is a close US ally and the US defense sector only needs around 2% of domestically produced steel. The government body whose job is to assess whether theres a security risk deadlocked on the question, leaving the decision up to Biden. After he said no, critics slammed the lame-duck president for scotching a sound business decision that would have done more to secure steelworker jobs than leaving US Steel behind the competition on scale and efficiency. United Steelworkers president David McCall said Nippon has a history of undercutting workers by moving production to low-cost regions, which could threaten job security at unionized plants in Pennsylvania and Indiana. Initially, Nippon only wanted to buy US Steels newer, more efficient non-union facilities in Arkansas. The union has better relations with Cleveland-Cliffs, which could still mount another bid for US Steel but probably couldnt match Nippons offer. As in many industries, the dispute pits shareholders seeking the highest return against blue-collar workers fighting to protect paychecks and livelihoods. Both sides have valid points. Trump seems certain to tout his magic cure-all tariffs as the solution that will bolster US Steels fading muscle while keeping union jobs where they are. On paper, the logic might seem sensible. Tariffs raise the cost of imports, making domestically produced goods more competitive. In 2018, Trump imposed tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminum imports from most countries. Lo and behold, the price of American steel rose by about 9%, and the steel industrys profit margin jumped from 9.6% in 2017 to 17.4% in 2018, according to S&P Capital IQ. Drop Rick Newman a note, follow him on Bluesky, or sign up for his newsletter. The number of people employed in the steel industry rose from 182,500 in 2017 to 187,291 in 2018 and 191,378 in 2019. So a modest gain in employment accompanied Trumps steel tariffs. But employment declined by about 75,000 in industries that were suddenly paying more for metals because of Trumps tariffs, for a net loss of around 70,000 jobs due to those tariffs during the first year they were in effect. President Trumps tariffs damaged the US economy, the Peterson Institute for International Economics reported in 2021. They protected some US metal producers but at the cost of raising prices for the many US domestic manufacturers that use steel and aluminum. Steel savior? US President-elect Donald Trump .(JUSTIN LANE/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo) (Reuters / Reuters) There were other complications. To retaliate against the Trump metal tariffs, the European Union imposed tariffs on American exports such as Harley-Davidson (HOG) motorcycles, Levis (LEVI) jeans, and Kentucky bourbon. Harley said the European tariffs added $2,200 to the cost of a US-made motorcycle exported to Europe and moved some production out of the United States to avoid the tariffs. Biden mostly removed Trumps steel and aluminum tariffs after taking office in 2021. Steelworker employment dipped modestly during the COVID downturn in 2020 and 2021 but then recovered, perhaps because of new laws Biden signed to boost infrastructure and green energy development, which requires a lot of steel. Employment in the industry is now back to 2019 levels, or where it was during peak tariff but without the tariffs. Trump has been cagey about just how aggressively hell use tariffs during his second term. Some of his aides say theyre more of a threat meant to generate leverage in negotiations with trade partners, while Trump insists hes not bluffing. If thats true, the domestic steel industry could be one of Trumps first targets. Workers should be careful what they wish for. Rick Newman is a senior columnist for Yahoo Finance. Follow him on Bluesky and X: @rickjnewman. Click here for political news related to business and money policies that will shape tomorrow's stock prices. Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Jamar Banks The knife-wielding maniac who allegedly sliced two people in a pair of subway stabbings last week is a well-known recidivist with a violent past whos been arrested dozens of times but continually ended up back on the streets, The Post learned. Suspected slasher Jamar Banks racked up 54 arrests for a shooting, stabbings, fare-jumping and domestic violence as he exhibited a history of mental illness issues, sources said. He was picked again up by the NYPDs Warrant Squad Sunday and charged with assault and weapons possession in his latest violent attacks, police sources told The Post. Jamar Banks has been arrested 54 times in the past for a litany of crimes. Stephen Yang Police were searching for Banks in connection with two subway stabbings. Obtained by The New York Post The suspect was psychologically evaluated at least once while in custody over the last four years, and cops flagged him four times as being a potentially suicidal, emotionally disturbed person, sources said. A frequent subject of his misguided rage was his uncle, who lived in the Bronx sources said Jamar Banks was arrested for two dozen domestic incidents between 2004 and 2021. He was also put on the transit offender recidivist database five times since 2020, has been arrested dozens of times for fare evasion since 1992, the sources said. Hes also been picked up on a slew of arrests on drug charges, sources added. Banks was fingered in January for a Manhattan robbery pattern that includes a variety of larcenies and thefts including accusations that he stole $222 worth of soap from Walgreens on Nov. 14 and $580 of mouthwash on Oct. 30, sources added. Earlier in 2024, Banks allegedly stole soap and body wash from a Queens Walgreens in April; more than $2,100 worth of beauty products from a Bronx Walgreens in June; and two bottles of Raid and a container of Vaseline from a Bronx Walgreens later that month. He was also hit with resisting arrest charges for the last theft because he allegedly fought back when a cop tried to arrest him, according to a criminal complaint. Surveillance video showed Banks with a large knife, cops said. Obtained by The New York Post The officerzapped him with a stun gun, then locked him up, the complaint said. Banks, 52, was arrested around midnight Sunday 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 at about 6 a.m. on 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. Before his Sunday arrest at the 219th Street station in The Bronx, police were told in an internal memo to exercise extreme caution if they found the alleged stab-happy psycho, who was carrying a large knife when he was collared. Banks allegedly knifed an off-duty MTA cleaner at the Pelham Bay station in The Bronx. Robert Miller Banks history gave authorities with a cause for concern, according to sources. In October 2022, Banks allegedly stabbed a 26-year-old man in the leg with a kitchen knife on a Manhattan subway after Banks tried to sit on his victims girlfriends lap. He was arrested that December for the attack, and authorities charged him with assault with intent to cause injury with a weapon, according to sources. In June 2015, Banks was accused of bursting out of a McDonalds bathroom in downtown Manhattan and stabbing a man whod knocked on the door to see if anyone was inside, sources said. And some years before, in July 1997, Banks was charged with attempted murder for shooting a man in the leg after the victim bumped into him on East 226th Street in the Bronx. Banks, then 24, was charged with intent to commit murder, assault with intent to cause serious injury with a weapon, criminal use of a firearm in the first degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, cops said. It was unclear Monday how any of these cases were resolved. He has a very very lengthy arrest history, one police source told The Post. It looks like he rides the rails back and forth. A man allegedly in control of a Utah-based spinoff of the far-right anti-government Oath Keepers group is reportedly a former Las Vegas police detective who once spoke approvingly of a coming race war and revolution inside the U.S. Robert Bobby Kinch has been listed as state leader of Oath Keepers Utah, and is president of a company called Northbridge Patriots LLC, which has held the trademarks for Oath Keepers USA since May 2023, The Guardian reports. The information about Kinch emerged after an unnamed individual spent years infiltrating far-right groups throughout the Western U.S., including visiting Kinchs home in the Utah mountains. The Distributed Denial of Secrets whistleblower coalition provided chat logs and other files to the outlet. The infiltrator reportedly photographed plaques commemorating Kinchs police service, a membership certificate for the Utah Oath Keepers listing Kinch as state leader, and an Ernest Hemingway quote on a plaque reading, Certainly there is no hunting like the hunting of man and those who have hunted armed men long enough and liked it, never really care for anything else thereafter. The individual also claimed Kinch had a stockpile of weapons and shelf-stable food. The Independent has contacted Kinch for comment. Reported leader of spinoff group from far-right militia that helped attack Capitol on January 6 once served in Vegas police and posted on Facebook about coming race war (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Kinch was a longtime officer in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. During his time on the force, colleagues discovered inflammatory Facebook messages, including a post that reportedly read: Lets just get this over! Race war, Civil, Revolution? Bring it! Im about as fed up as a man (American, Christian, White, Heterosexual) can get! An internal investigation later revealed a photo of Kinch pointing a handgun at a commemorative plate featuring the face of Barack Obama, allegedly taken at a party with other police present. A department official alerted the Secret Service to the photo, nearly prompting a federal raid. Kinch remained on the force after the flare-ups. He later launched a discrimination case against the department, claiming he was retaliated against after testifying in a 2015 discrimination suit from a colleague. Kinch later retired from the force in 2016. The national Oath Keepers group claims tens of thousands of members, comprised of current and former military and police officials. The group claims to defend constitutional liberties from federal overreach and has regularly participated in armed standoffs and vigilante-style security patrols during protests. Multiple members of the group joined in the January 6 Capitol riot and were charged with seditious conspiracy. Donald Trump has suggested in recent weeks he will pardon nearly all of those charged with January 6-related offenses, beginning his first day in office. Tulsa County Jail Savawna Bowen An Oklahoma mother has been charged with child neglect one year after the death of her 4-month-old baby. Tulsa County court records reviewed by PEOPLE show the mother, Savawna Bowen, was taken into custody by the Tulsa Police Department and charged with one count of child neglect. The charges stem from her 4-month-old baby Xylon Adams death in January 2024, according to Local News on 6. Xylon was taken to the hospital last January and diagnosed with a severe brain injury, as well as a broken jaw, ribs, and femur, and died several days later. His father, Daquan White, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, child abuse and child neglect, Tulsa Police previously said. Jail records show he's not charged with first-degree murder of a child by injuring, torturing or maiming. White is currently in Tulsa County Jail, though plea or attorney information for him was not immediately clear. Tulsa County Jail Daquan White Prosecutors alleged in the neglect charge filed in court this week that Bowen knew about her childs injuries for several days before deciding to take the infant to a local hospital for help, according to Local News on 6. The outlet reported that prosecutors also alleged that Bowen made several concerning internet searches during the days between her childs injuries and taking the child to the hospital, including searching babys femur is sticking out and newborn not being able to move his mouth. 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. Doctors told investigators that Xylon likely wouldve survived the severe injuries if Bowen or White had taken the infant to the hospital sooner, prosecutors also reportedly alleged. Bowen posted a $10,000 bond and has been released from custody, according to court records reviewed by PEOPLE. She is set to be arraigned in Tulsa County District Court on Thursday morning. 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 Wendy Cragg/SWNS Jimmy Cragg, 6, was diagnosed with leukemia 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 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. 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 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. 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. 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. 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 Sunny skies and a Mediterranean breeze: that was what awaited holidaymakers aboard British Airways flight 2616 from London Gatwick to Malta two days before Christmas. Among them was Sue Heath, 64, from Buckinghamshire. But just before the Airbus pushed back from the gate, she was ordered to leave seat 23C on the aircraft. Even though her UK passport is valid for travel to Malta and the rest of the European Union until late March, ground staff wrongly offloaded Ms Heath and then blamed her for having an expired passport, when the document was perfectly valid. I was told my passport was not valid for the EU, said Ms Heath, who has spent much of her working life in travel. I had to accept their decision and sadly miss my Christmas in Malta. I felt very humble and embarrassed that I had messed up. In fact, British Airways ground staff at Gatwick had once again messed up by denying boarding to a properly documented passenger. On a single day earlier this year, BA turned away two separate passengers from the Sussex airport because ground staff did not understand the rules for their destinations. Since Brexit, a UK passport must meet two conditions for travel to the European Union: No more than 10 years old on the day of entry to the EU. At least three months remaining on the intended day of departure from the EU. Ms Heaths passport comfortably met both of these requirements. But ground staff appeared confused about whether her passport was valid. The gate agent was concerned about my passport not being acceptable, and initially said I could not board the flight, Ms Heath said. She tried to call her office but could not get an answer. She then looked again and said it was OK and checked me back in and boarded me again. I went on board, but about 10 minutes before departure she came and asked to look at my passport again. She telephoned the office and gave them all my passport details, and my return flight travel information. She then said unfortunately I couldnt travel, as I would have had to be out and back from Malta by 22 December 24. Then she took me off the plane. I came off the flight and was escorted out through passport control and customs into the arrivals hall by a BA agent. I went home and later that day called a BA customer service number, but all they really could say was documentation was my responsibility and to call an embassy if I needed clarification. Welcome sight: Valletta Harbour in Malta, in December (Simon Calder) The post-Brexit rules took effect in 2021. BA, along with other airlines, was informed of them in that year. The majority of passengers flying on British Airways short-haul services from Gatwick are UK passport holders heading for the European Union. It is not clear why ground staff evidently including the supervisor who was involved by phone should still be unaware of the requirements and invent their own rules for these travellers. A British Airways spokesperson said: We are investigating this particular case to understand why the customer wasnt permitted to travel and are in contact with them directly to resolve it as soon as possible. Under air passengers rights rules, Ms Heath is entitled to 350 in compensation for being denied boarding, as well as her fare refunded. BA is also understood to be meeting the cost of the accommodation in Malta that Ms Heath lost as a result of being taken off the aircraft at Gatwick. What to do if airline staff wrongly turn you away from a flight Illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border dropped to a five-year low this week, amid the holidays and the Biden administration's ongoing efforts to contain unlawful crossings at the border. U.S. Border Patrol logged an average of 1,000 daily migrant encounters in the seven days that ended on Jan. 5 along the U.S.-Mexico border, a senior U.S. Customs and Border Protection official told USA TODAY on Monday. Guatemalan migrants walk after arriving at La Aurora Air Force Base on a deportation flight from the U.S., in Guatemala City, Guatemala, November 8, 2024. The agency hasn't seen average daily crossings at that level since April 2020, the official said. At the time, it was the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when global travel and migration slowed dramatically. Migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border typically dip right after the winter holidays. But the early January average was a quarter of what it was during the same week a year ago when average daily encounters topped 4,000, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak with the press. More: As Trump plans mass deportation, Mexican views of migration harden Even nine months ago, Border Patrol was reporting 1,000 migrant encounters a day in a single sector. "Encounters" refer to both migrants apprehended while trying to evade authorities and those who turn themselves in to border agents, seeking asylum. In the El Paso Sector, which stretches from West Texas through New Mexico, border agents were encountering a daily average of 1,004 migrants during a seven-day period in late April, according to the city of El Paso's migrant "situational awareness" dashboard. "We anticipated that more people would come to the U.S. or seek asylum in the U.S. around Christmastime or around the New Year," which is a typical seasonal pattern before numbers trail off, said Kari Lenander, executive director of the Border Servant Corps, a New Mexico-based nonprofit that provides migrant aid. "In fact, numbers have decreased not only in the El Paso Sector but also border-wide," she said. Two Border Patrol sectors are seeing the majority of the crossings in the first days of the year, the San Diego Sector in California and the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, according to the Customs and Border Protection official. The Border Patrol encounters don't include the migrants processed each day by U.S. customs officers at ports of entry. The Customs and Border Protection takes up to 1,450 appointments daily via the Biden administration's CBP One app, which migrants can use to make an appointment to seek asylum. Migration swings from record highs to record lows The number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border has swung dramatically during the administration of President Joe Biden, surging to record highs in 2022 and 2023 before dropping in the administration's final year to levels not seen since the first Trump administration. More: Donald Trump picks border patrol chief ousted by Joe Biden as new customs leader U.S. Border Patrol reported more than 2 million migrant encounters per year each in fiscal 2022 and 2023, numbers that fueled criticism by Republicans about the administration's record on border security. Encounters dropped to 1.5 million in fiscal 2024, which ended in September. Migrant encounters hit a historic one-month record above 249,000 in December 2023 prompting the Biden administration to shut down key ports of entry with Mexico in a move to get Mexico to do more to enforce its own borders. In December 2024, the U.S. Border Patrol reported 47,300 encounters, a more than 80% decline year over year. "This sustained success is the result of strong border enforcement, extensive engagement with our foreign partners and the delivery of safe and lawful pathways that continue to provide humanitarian relief under our laws, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. Biden worked with Mexico to increase its enforcement of migrant routes north. Then, in June, the administration sharply restricted access to asylum between ports of entry, while continuing to process asylum-seekers via CBP One appointments at the ports. The number of encounters between ports of entry fell by a third after the asylum restrictions and has held near that level for six months. At the same time, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ramped up deportations in fiscal 2024 to the highest level since the Obama administration. The administration also began providing aid to Panama to increase its repatriation flights and crack down on illegal crossings through the Darien Gap, a jungle route many migrants take from South America, headed for the U.S. border. "None of these things is long-term," said Adam Isacson, director of defense oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America. "Now, the new phenomenon is the arrival of Donald Trump. I think people are going to wait for the next few months to see what happens," before deciding whether they attempt to cross the border, he said. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20, has promised to "seal the border" and launch a mass deportation as part of his signature campaign promise to reduce unlawful immigration. Start your day informed: Sign up for USA TODAY's Daily Briefing newsletter. (This story has been updated to add new information.) Lauren Villagran can be reached at lvillagran@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Illegal immigration drops at US-Mexico border Russia has claimed that its forces captured a battered but strategic town in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, while the Ukrainian military said it struck a command post during its counterattack in the Russian region of Kursk. After months of intense fighting, Russias Defense Ministry on Monday said its troops had completely liberated Kurakhove, a small industrial town that is a stepping stone to the key city of Pokrovsk and wider southern frontlines. But a Ukrainian official has cast doubt on Russias claims, saying fighting in the town continued on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Kyiv has renewed its offensive in Kursk, where its troops have been holding territory after launching a shock incursion last summer. Ukraines military said on Tuesday that it had conducted a precision strike on a Russian military command post near the town of Belaya. Despite both sides being drained after nearly three years of war, frontline fighting has ramped up in recent weeks. With Donald Trump set to return to the White House this month promising to end the war in a day, without saying how Moscow and Kyiv appear to be making an 11th-hour push to gobble up territory and strengthen their negotiating hands ahead of potential peace talks. Kurakhove has been pummeled in recent weeks as Russian troops circle in on Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub that, if lost, would hamper Ukraines ability to hold onto territory in Donetsk. Kurakhove is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Pokrovsk, and is the latest in a string of towns claimed by Russia. Ukraines Khortytsia operational and strategic grouping said their troops were countering Russias attempts to exercise their numerical superiority and develop an offensive. It said Russian troops were fighting in parts of the town. Viktor Tregubov, spokesperson for Khortytsia, said that fighting had continued Tuesday morning in the western part of Kurakhove and near the towns thermal power plant. Despite reports from Russian forces that the town is under their complete control and captured, we have not confirmed this information, Tregubov told CNN. CNN has been unable to verify the claims independently. Ukrainian military bloggers have shared differing accounts of Russias gains and the success of Ukraines defensive strategy. One blogger, Yuriy Butusov, wrote that Kurakhove has been virtually lost despite heroic efforts by Ukraines forces. He said troops were still defending key industrial areas, including the power plant. Russian state media on Monday said Ukrainian troops had been pushed back from parts of the premises of the power plant, citing sources in Russian security structures, but that fighting was still underway. A lot of work in the industrial zone is still ahead, the sources were quoted as saying. A Ukrainian artillery crew fires towards Russian infantry in Donetsk region, Ukraine, December 24, 2024. - Ivan Antypenko/Suspilne Ukraine/Global Images Ukraine/Getty Images Butusov questioned the wisdom of Ukrainian military commands attempts to defend Kurakhove, saying it risked repeating the same pattern as in Soledar, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Vuhledar cities in eastern Ukraine that eventually fell after weeks or months of resistance to Russias meat-grinder assaults, during which it inflicted huge losses on Moscows troops but sustained high casualties of its own. Another blogger, Bohdan Miroshnikov, praised Ukrainian troops for performing miracles in Kurakhove. It costs us a lot, but it prevents the enemy from causing more trouble, the blogger said. Meanwhile, Ukraine is counterattacking in Kursk, despite efforts by Russian and recently deployed North Korean troops to drive Ukrainian units back across the border. Ukrainian forces struck Russian troops in several locations in Kursk over the weekend, with a senior official saying that Russia is getting what it deserves. Ukraines military said Tuesday it had struck Russias 810th Separate Marine Brigade in Belaya, southeast of the part of Kursk occupied by Ukrainian troops. Although Kyivs troops quickly advanced through Kursk in the summer in the first ground invasion of Russia by a foreign power since World War II Russia eventually managed to push the forces back. The lines had been mostly static for weeks before Ukraines latest push. In his daily address Monday, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian troops were maintaining a buffer zone on Russian territory. 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, he said. He said the Kursk offensive was important in preventing Russian from redirecting its troops to Donetsk and other regions in eastern and southern Ukraine. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A mysterious radio blast from space detected in 2022 originated in the magnetic field of an ultra-dense neutron star 200 million light years away. Known as fast radio bursts, or FRB, such brief stellar explosions last just a thousandth of a second but carry enough energy to sometimes outshine even entire galaxies. Astronomers have detected thousands of FRBs since the first of its kind was spotted in 2007 but exactly how these flares are launched into space isnt entirely clear. A new study published last week in the journal Nature focused on FRB 20221022A, a burst discovered in 2022, to find some answers. Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US assessed the FRBs brightness and estimated that it most likely originated from a neutron stars magnetosphere, the highly magnetic region immediately surrounding it. The findings are the first conclusive evidence that FRBs can originate from the magnetospheres of such ultra-compact stars. In these environments of neutron stars, the magnetic fields are really at the limits of what the universe can produce, study lead author Kenzie Nimmo said. An artists illustration of a neutron star emitting a radio beam from within its magnetic environment (Daniel Lievano/MIT) Previous studies predicted that atoms would easily be torn apart around such magnetic neutron stars, also known as magnetars. Theres been a lot of debate about whether this bright radio emission could even escape from that extreme plasma, Dr Nimmo said. The exciting thing here is, we find that the energy stored in those magnetic fields, close to the source, is twisting and reconfiguring such that it can be released as radio waves that we can see halfway across the universe. The new findings also shed more light on the physics driving the FRB, which has been unclear till now. Some theories suggest that fast radio bursts come from the magnetospheres of compact cosmic objects while others consider them shockwaves from the central object. In the latest study, researchers considered the scintillation effect that occurs when light from a small bright source, such as a neutron star, filters through a medium like a galaxys gas. The light tends to bend in ways that make the star appear twinkling to a distant observer. The more distant the object, the smaller it is and the more it appears to twinkle. Scientists previously examined whether the degree to which an FRB scintillated could help find the size of the region from where the radio signal originated. The smaller this region is found to be, the more likely the FRB is to have come from a source close to the surface of the star. When it was detected in 2022, the light signal from FRB 20221022A lasted about two milliseconds with one standout property: it was highly polarised with the angle of polarisation tracing a smooth S-shaped curve. This special property was seen as evidence that the FRB emission site was rotating a characteristic of highly magnetized, rotating neutron stars called pulsars. Researchers then determined that the radio burst originated from a small region just about 10,000 km from the surface of the neutron star. Thats less than the distance between New York and Singapore, scientists said. Zooming in to a 10,000-kilometer region, from a distance of 200 million light years, is like being able to measure the width of a DNA helix, which is about 2 nanometers wide, on the surface of the moon, Kiyoshi Masui, another author of the study, said. The findings prove for the first time that fast radio bursts can originate from very close to a neutron star, in their highly chaotic magnetic environments. Elizabeth Warren, Pete Hegseth Sen. Elizabeth Warren strongly suggested that there are concerns that Army veteran Pete Hegseth could be an insider threat due to his Christian tattoo and seethed over his crusade against woke military policies in a blistering missive to the defense secretary designee. While outlining over 70 questions to Hegseth and giving him four days to reply, Warren made clear that she sees him as unfit to helm the Pentagon and teased a fiery showdown when he appears before the Senate Armed Services Committee next week. I am deeply concerned by the many ways in which your behavior and rhetoric indicates that you are unfit to lead the Department of Defense, Warren, 75, wrote in the 33-page letter to Hegseth sent late Monday. Your confirmation as Secretary of Defense would be detrimental to our national security and disrespect a diverse array of servicemembers who are willing to sacrifice for our country. Strikingly, the Massachusetts Democrat latched onto dubious concerns about a Deus Vult tattoo on Hegseths bicep, a Latin phrase that translates to God wills it. Pete Hegseth is facing one of the most difficult confirmation battles of President-elect Donald Trumps picks. Getty Images Religious scholars have said Deus Vult is a common Christian symbol. Instagram/Peter Hegseth Warren pointed to a Reuters article recounting how a National Guard master sergeant believed the former Fox News host could be an insider threat. That master sergeant had done a quick internet search and determined that the tattoo had links to right-wing extremism and had been a battle cry for the Crusaders. National Guard leadership then pushed Hegseth out from serving during President Bidens inauguration day. Notably, top brass had been on high alert at the time in the wake of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Despite religious scholars later countering that the Deus Vult is often considered a common Christian symbol, Warren contended that the fact that his superiors were concerned about the tattoo raises questions about whether he could be the Pentagon chief. You were also removed from President Bidens inauguration because of concerns that you were an insider threat after reports that your Deus Vult tattoo was a Christian expression associated with right-wing extremism,' she wrote to Hegseth. We cannot have a Defense Secretary whose fellow servicemembers feel concerned enough about to report as a potential insider threat. Pete Hegseth worked as a weekend co-host of Fox & Friends between 2017 and 2024. Instagram/Peter Hegseth Warren, who is the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Service subcommittee on personnel, also lashed out at Hegseth for musing about firing top military brass who were involved in key failures such as the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Massachusetts progressive argued that military leaders shouldnt be held responsible for failures on the battleground if they were the result of decisions made by politicians. Anyone nominated to your position should know that civilians establish policies that are then carried out by the military, Warren sternly stressed to Hegseth. I am concerned by proposals to hold military leaders responsible for policy decisions made by civilian leaders. President-elect Donald Trump has previously announced that he would ask all generals involved in the botched Afghanistan withdrawal to resign by noon on his Inauguration Day. Warren fretted that Hegseth would likely be on board with that and also assailed his criticism of the Defense Departments woke initiatives as well as its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Hegseth has publicly called for the firing of top military brass who were involved in any of the DEI/woke st, arguing that the Pentagon needs to be depoliticized. Sen. Elizabeth Warren gave Pete Hegseth until Jan. 10 to respond to the 70-plus questions she sent to him on Monday. Boston Globe via Getty Images Purging top military leadership based on their political views would represent a direct threat to the norms and institutions that uphold the Defense Department and civil-military relations, she wrote. While railing against Hegseth over the prospect of him backing Trumps potential efforts to purge ineffective or woke military leaders, Warren asked Hegseth to provide a list of those hed consider firing. She also asked him to state whether he wants the Pentagon to remain an apolitical institution. Warren also broached other controversies surrounding Hegseth such as accusations of sexual misconduct which he has denied and anonymous accusations of him being a heavy drinker, something that he has denied and his former Fox News colleagues have rejected on the record. At one point, Warren pressed Hegseth for his views on the 2020 election and argued that the defense secretary-designee needs to reassure senators that hes not delusional. We cannot have a Secretary of Defense who is peddling conspiracy theories and making claims that are devoid of reality, she said. Pete Hegseth served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Pete Hegseth Brian Hughes, a Trump transition spokesperson, slammed Warrens missive and told The Post that Hegseth looks forward to answering senators questions and detailing his many qualifications. Sen. Warrens letter to Pete Hegseth is exactly what the American voters rejected on Nov. 5. Instead of focusing on woke policies that have weakened our national defense, the voters gave a mandate to rebuild our military, and thats exactly what a reform-minded Secretary of Defense like Pete Hegseth will do, the spox said. Senator Warrens letter proves why ideologically driven college professors have no place driving their social agenda at the Department of Defense. Hegseth has emerged as one of Trumps most endangered administration picks but now has seemingly eased concerns from many skeptical Republican senators such as Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). To get the job, Hegseth will first need to clear the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he is likely to face stiff opposition from Democrats. Then, he must get confirmed by the full Senate. A hot-air balloon tour over the Teotihuacan Valley near Mexico City was a "splurge" activity. Sarah Bence I spent 17 months traveling with my partner while trying to stick to a budget of about $50 a day. My budget kept me on track for the first three months, in part because Peru felt affordable. I definitely spent more in countries known for being expensive to visit, like Japan and Singapore. After saving up for years, my partner and I spent 17 months traveling around the world. We started our trip in Peru and traveled north to Mexico before heading to Asia. Since my partner is an accountant, we thought it would be useful to track every expense along the way. My initial budget was $1,500 a month or roughly $50 a day. He had the same budget, but we kept our money separate. Here's what it was like exploring multiple countries while trying to manage my spending. I stayed under budget for only the first 3 months of the trip We hiked in Cocora Valley in Colombia. Sarah Bence We spent the first two months in Peru, where I spent $1,370.29 in July and $1,179.96 in August. Of all the countries we visited, I found Peru had some of the lowest prices for things like food and accommodations. Our real key to staying under budget the first few months, though, was traveling at a slow pace. We took long bus journeys instead of quick, pricey flights and got deals on accommodations for staying longer. We also frequently cooked for ourselves and didn't book any expensive tours or activities. I also stayed under budget in September, which we spent in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. I spent $1,325.07, with a daily average of $33.35 in Peru and $45.60 in Ecuador. Colombia was more expensive for me at an average of $57 a day, but we spent only a few days there at the end of the month. I didn't stay under budget any other months, but some countries still felt affordable to me While in northern Vietnam, I motorbiked the Ha Giang loop. Sarah Bence While exploring Central America, I didn't go over my monthly budget of $1,500 by too much. One month I spent $1,646, and another $1,888. My daily spend was below $50 in El Salvador ($38.70) and Costa Rica ($33.09). To be fair, though, my Costa Rica budget is skewed because my parents visited and paid for our accommodation for 10 days as our joint Christmas and birthday presents. Without their gift, I would've spent way more. I thought El Salvador, on the other hand, felt extremely affordable, but I spent only 12 days there. I wish I'd stayed longer both for my wallet and because I enjoyed the people, scenery, and food (pupusas forever!). We did a paddleboarding tour in Guatemala. Sarah Bence I also went over my daily budget but only slightly while visiting Colombia ($57), Honduras ($58.41), Nicaragua ($53.43), Guatemala ($62.72), and Vietnam ($54.23). Looking back, I think I could've stayed under budget in those places if I'd tried harder or reorganized my itinerary. Cutting out pricey experiences like the motorbiking trip in Vietnam or the overnight volcano hike in Guatemala would've lowered my expenses but those felt like once-in-a-lifetime opportunities I couldn't pass up. I also could've saved a significant amount by booking cheaper accommodations like hostel dorms, but the longer we traveled the more we opted for more comfortable (often pricier) stays like Airbnbs or private hostel rooms. Splitting accomodation costs between the two of us helped I couldn't have justified the upgrades as a solo traveler but we rarely chose the cheapest options. Some countries surprised me by how expensive they felt In March, I spent $3,076.75 across Belize and Mexico double my monthly budget. I splurged on some experiences, like a snorkel tour in Belize and a mezcal tasting in Oaxaca, but the average prices for just about everything were higher than I expected. Though I overspent, I still refrained from certain activities, like a $125 cave tour in Belize, because I wanted to try to stay close to my budget. Looking back, I wish I'd just spent the money. In Indonesia, I spent $109.96 a day, which might seem high for a country that has a reputation for affordability, though I spent five days on its island of Sumatra on orangutan trekking tours. My flights, transport, and tours were expensive for that short amount of time, but it was one of my most memorable experiences. I knew in advance that my budget would be too tight for some countries I had a wonderful time traveling for over a year. Sarah Bence Before I left, I knew I'd likely exceed my budget in some countries that are known for being expensive to visit. My average daily spend in Panama was $98.38. My food and accommodations there were on the pricey side, and I also splurged on a five-day sailboat trip from Colombia to get there. (The alternative was an equally expensive flight, which was how I justified it.) I also knew Singapore would be expensive, so I limited myself to six days there across two separate layovers. I stayed in hostel dorms or used credit-card points for hotels and mostly did free activities. My spending in Singapore still came out to $95.74 a day. Finally, the most expensive country I visited was also my favorite: Japan. I spent an average of $121.79 a day, or $3,288.28 across 27 days aka more than double my monthly budget. Though I dipped more into my savings than I'd have liked, budgeting made this travel dream possible Traveling for this long was incredible, and it wouldn't have been possible without my budget. Daily and monthly spending goals helped me keep my spending in check. Setting a conservative budget, having savings separate from the money I'd set aside for this trip, and earning some cash along the way meant I didn't stress too much when I went over budget. Looking back, I could've rearranged my itinerary to spend more time in countries where I spent less, but ultimately I don't have any significant regrets. In fact, my advice would be to splurge on bucket-list activities (within reason) I'll never forget seeing wild orangutans in Indonesia or learning to make sushi in Japan. Money can come back, but memories are forever. Read the original article on Business Insider animals that eat their young: lion iStock.com/MaggyMeyer Do you know which big cat is the biggest? The answer might surprise you! Have you ever wondered what makes a big cat a big cat? How about which one of these fierce felines is the biggest of them all? This big cats size comparison will cover these facts and more all while using everyday objects so you can see just how big they are! Some of the largest land predators in the world belong to the family of big cats. From lions to tigers to leopards and more, their diversity allows them to exist in a variety of shapes and sizes. Continue reading to learn more about just how big some of these big cats are. Tiger Size Tigers are the largest of the big cats! enky03/Shutterstock.com Tigers are the third largest land predator, only smaller than polar bears and grizzly bears. They are the largest of the big cats. The largest tiger is the Siberian tiger, and its also the holder of the tiger world record. One Siberian tiger, a tiger in captivity named Jaipur, weighed in at over 900 pounds and measured nearly 11 feet from nose to tail. Thats the same weight as a grand piano, and only a few feet shorter than a giraffes height! However, Jaipur is a bit of an outlier, though not by too much. On average, most tigers weigh anywhere from 140 to 700 pounds. Thats a big difference, but it accounts for the different types of tigers. For example, youre more likely to find Siberian tigers like Jaipur weighing around 690 pounds, about the same as a large vending machine, and only around 9 to 10 feet long. Sumatran tigers, however, are the smallest subspecies. While they can reach the same lengths as their larger cousins, their maximum weight is 300 pounds half that of the Siberian tiger! The most common tiger subspecies is the Bengal, or Indian, tiger. These are the tigers you probably know best, and they account for nearly half of all wild tigers. At their shoulders, Bengal tigers are around 3.6 feet tall, or 43 inches. In comparson, the largest dog, the Irish Wolfhound, is only 32 inches at the shoulder. Bengal tigers can also grow up to 10 feet in length and weigh as much as 490 pounds. Lion Size Lions are the fourth largest land predators! iStock.com/Denisapro Lions are the fourth largest land predators, falling behind the polar bear, the grizzly bear, and the tiger. At their shoulders, male lions can grow to nearly four feet tall. When you consider their neck and head, youd most likely see eye to eye with these kings of the jungle! Like many other big cats, they can be up to 10 feet long. These kings of the jungle weigh between 330 and 550 pounds! However, the largest lion on record, which died in 1936, weighed 690 pounds the same as the average motorcycle! Leopard Size Leopards come in many shapes and sizes due to their diverse habitats. Geoff Brooks / unsplash Original / License When it comes to big cats, modern leopards arent record-setting, especially compared to other wild cats. While leopards may have once rivaled even the largest lions, leopards of today have a maximum weight of 200 pounds. The largest subspecies of leopard is the Persian leopard. These fierce felines can grow to be nearly nine feet long from nose to tail and weigh as much as 200 pounds or around 15 times the size of your pet cat! The Arabian leopard, the smallest subspecies, has a head-to-rump size of six to seven feet and weighs as little as 44 pounds as an adult. Snow Leopard Size Snow leopards are larger than the average leopard. Yomex Owo / unsplash Original / License The snow leopard is an endangered species found in Asias high mountains. While still smaller than the Persian leopard, the snow leopard is larger than the Arabian leopard. Born for the cold climate of the mountaintops, snow leopards reach an average weight of around 70 pounds, though they can weigh as much as 90 pounds. At their shoulders, snow leopards are around 2 feet tall, which is common for the leopard family. As for their body length, snow leopards are usually around 7 feet long. Human Vs. Big Cats Size Comparison Big cats can come in many shapes and sizes, including big, bigger, and biggest! After learning about how big some of the biggest big cats are, you may be wondering just how big they are compared to you. When it comes to shoulder height, youll find youre taller than most of these big cats. The tallest here is the lion, which still only stands four feet tall at the shoulders. Thats around the height of your average 8-year-old! Leopards, however, including snow leopards, wont be much taller than your typical canine companion. In fact, they tend to be the same height as furry pups like Golden Retrievers. However, on their hind legs, even the smallest of these felines have the ability to tower over you. The smallest leopard grows to be at least 6 feet long, which is several inches taller than the average human height. For big cats who can grow to be up to 11 feet long, like the tiger, they can be nearly double the height of the typical adult human! Humans can outweigh the largest leopards and even some of the smallest subspecies of others included in this big cat size comparison. When it comes to the average weight for these big cats, though, humans barely come close. Take both the heaviest lions and tigers for example it can take nearly 5 humans to weigh the same as one of them! The post From Tigers to Snow Leopards: How Big Are the Worlds Largest Cats? appeared first on A-Z Animals. WASHINGTON - President-elect Donald Trump said on Tuesday he's planning to issue major pardons for Jan. 6 defendants who stormed the Capitol four years ago. People that didn't even walk into the building are in jail right now. So we'll be looking at the whole thing but I'll be making major pardons, yes, Trump said during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago home in South Florida when asked whether he was planning to pardon rioters charged with violent offenses. Its a move hes previously signaled he would make. Trumps latest remarks come a day after lawmakers gathered to witness the counting of the electoral votes and certify his victory in the 2024 presidential race. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump speaks to members of the media during a press conference at the Mar-a-Lago Club on January 07, 2025 in Palm Beach, Florida. Trump will be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States on January 20, making him the only president other than Grover Cleveland to serve two non-consecutive terms in office. Trump supporters in 2021 faced off with police officers and broke into the Capitol building in an attempt to halt the certification of President Joe Bidens 2020 election win. More than 1,500 people tied to the attack have been charged with crimes, with more than 1,000 pleading guilty to either felonies or misdemeanors, according to the Justice Department. Trump had previously called Jan. 6 rioters warriors and said at a rally in June that there has never been people treated more horrifically than J6 hostages. In a December interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," the president-elect said he'd be looking at individual Jan. 6 cases for pardons and would act "very quickly," possibly as soon as Inauguration Day. Democrats have opposed Trumps plan to pardon the rioters. Donald Trump wants to whitewash the insurrection that occurred four years ago, but the American people know what they saw with their own eyes, said Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., on Monday. And now people who have been convicted of assaulting police officers, people who caused a riot that resulted in the death of police officers. Donald Trump says he wants to go ahead and justtreat it as if they are heroes. They're not heroes. They're insurrectionists, she added. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump promises 'major pardons' for Jan. 6 rioters A New York appeals court judge Tuesday denied Donald Trump's bid for an emergency order halting the president-elect's scheduled sentencing Friday on criminal charges in the hush money case. Justice Ellen Gesmer rejected the emergency stay request following brief arguments between Trump attorney Todd Blanche and a lawyer from the Manhattan district attorney's office. "There has never been a case like this," Blanche told Gesmer at the hearing in the state Appellate Division, a midlevel appeals court. Blanche argued that Trump is already protected by presidential immunity and "should not have to go through any legal process." Steven Wu of the Manhattan district attorney's office urged Gesmer to reject the request. "This is a claim that the president-elect is entitled to immunity, and there is no support for that," he said, adding that the "claim is so baseless that there is no basis for any kind of stay here." "There is one president at a time," Wu said. Gesmer asked Wu about Trump's claim that the proceeding would be disruptive to his presidential transition. Wu responded that it would be virtual and that it would most likely take about an hour. Blanche countered that a sentencing is "a very big deal." Trump is not expected to appear in person for the sentencing, according to a transition official. If the sentencing goes forward Friday morning as scheduled, it appears that Trump will be availing himself of the virtual appearance option offered by Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the hush money trial. In their filing Monday, prosecutors said Trump had opted to appear virtually at his sentencing but did not state the source of that information. Trump's petition said the appeals court needed to grant an immediate stay of any further criminal proceedings" in the trial court to "prevent ongoing violations of the constitutional rights of President Trump and a threatened disruption of the Presidential transition, a process that directly concerns the United States of Americas national security and vital interests." It contended that Trump is already protected by presidential immunity so he cannot be sentenced and that his conviction in May should be thrown out on other presidential immunity grounds. In a brief ruling, Gesmer wrote, After consideration of the papers submitted and the extensive oral argument, movants application for an interim stay is denied. Blanche, whom Trump has said he would nominate to be deputy attorney general, did not comment leaving court. Merchan initially postponed Trump's scheduled sentencing in July in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling setting a new standard for presidential immunity that month. Merchan found in a ruling last month that Trump does not have immunity until he is sworn in as president. In a separate order last week, he directed Trump's sentencing on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to take place Friday morning and said he plans to give him an unconditional discharge. That means the conviction would stand, but he would not be subjected to any punishment. Merchan rejected Trump's request for a stay Monday. Prosecutors from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office said in a court filing Monday that there is no reason to delay the sentencing any longer. The DAs office also contended that now is the least burdensome time for Trump to be sentenced. As president-elect, he "has no viable claim of presidential immunity from ordinary criminal process and is not yet engaged in any official presidential functions that would be disrupted by the sentencing, they wrote. Trump was convicted in May of falsifying records related to hush money that his then-attorney Michael Cohen paid adult film star Stormy Daniels in the closing days of the 2016 presidential election. Daniels testified she had a sexual encounter with Trump in 2006, a claim he has denied. Canadians woke up Tuesday to an uncertain future, after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he would resign and bring his near-decade in power to an end. Trudeau's announcement came just days into an election year and followed weeks of mounting pressure from within his own party to step down as he battled dire poll ratings partly driven by soaring inflation, rising immigration and his handling of President-elect Donald Trump. "If Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in Canada's next election, Trudeau, 53, told reporters in Ottawa. His decision has triggered an urgent search within the Liberal party to identify a new candidate who can take on Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. Poilievre has dominated in the polls and was last on 44% according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, compared with Trudeau whose rating sits just above 20%. The Trump factor A key focus for whoever leads Canada next will be managing their countrys relationship with the incoming Trump administration. After winning re-election in November, the president-elect vowed to impose a 25% tariff on all products imported from Canada and Mexico. While Trudeau sought to appease Trump, visiting him at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, the incoming president has since repeatedly jabbed at the prime minister, suggesting making Canada the 51st state and reiterating the idea in response to Trudeaus resignation. Trudeau's handling of Trump precipitated the final blow to his tenure, with the high-profile departure last month of his Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. In a scathing resignation letter, she accused Trudeau of failing to take seriously Trumps threats to increase import tariffs on Canadian goods. Freeland warned that Canada needed to take Trumps plans extremely seriously and avoid costly political gimmicks. In contrast to Trudeau, Poilievre the former-Conservative ministers biography touts him as a life-long conservative and champion of a free market has sought to present himself as the candidate with the strength and smarts to stand up for this country. In an interview with Canadian broadcaster CTV News last month, Poilievre said that his first message for the incoming president was that first and foremost, Canada will never be the 51st state of the U.S. and Canada, he said, had a very proud future ahead of us. Tari Ajadi, a politics professor at McGill University in Montreal, was less sure. He told NBC News that Poilievre has yet to produce a clear plan on how to tackle the Canada-U.S. relationship under Trump, adding that I think Canadas in for a rough ride. What happens now? Even though Trudeau is quitting, Canadians will have to wait for months before they can head to the polls. An election date has yet to be announced, and while the Canada Elections Act says it must be held on or before Oct. 20, Trudeau's resignation means it's likely that a vote will be called before then. Before that can happen, the Liberal Party must find a candidate. Trudeau said he would remain at the partys helm until his party colleagues have undertaken a "robust, nationwide, competitive process" to find his successor. In the meantime, Trudeau said Canada's governor general had accepted his request to prorogue Parliament, suspending proceedings without the dissolution of parliament, until March 24. Then, a confidence vote is expected to be held, with a no-confidence result triggering the next federal election. That means the Liberal government will remain in power, but parliamentary activity will come to a halt. Referring to his party's lack of working majority and Canada's legislative gridlock, Trudeau said Monday that Parliament has been paralyzed for months after what has been the longest session of a minority Parliament in Canadian history. Who will replace Trudeau? Trudeau, a former teacher who campaigned with the slogan "sunny ways," took office in November 2015 and enjoyed high popularity ratings early in his leadership with the promise of liberal reforms, progressive tax policies and a focus on gender equality. His initial appeal was also boosted by the legacy of his father, the charismatic but polarizing Pierre Trudeau, who was one of Canada's longest-serving leaders. But in recent years, Trudeau's approval ratings plummeted from around 65% in September 2016 to around 22% in December, according to the nonprofit Angus Reid Institute. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and then-Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland in Ottawa in 2018. According to figures from the Angus Reid Institute, former-journalist Freeland is the Liberal candidate most likely to beat Poilievre. Former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney is also a contender and the Conservatives have sensed that. They have long attacked Carney, with Poilievre dismissing him as "just like Justin." But regardless of who Trudeau's successor is, its hard to imagine anyone coming in who can hold onto the government in the next election, Cornell University government professor Peter Loewen told NBC News. Dominic LeBlanc, minister of finance and intergovernmental affairs and a longtime friend of Trudeau's, and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly are also potential candidates. With Trudeau on his way out, the Liberal Party appears to be facing an existential crisis. Trudeau was a singular figure in Canadian politics, Ajadi of McGill University said. Theres not another Justin Trudeau waiting in the wings. FORT LAUDERDALE - Broward sheriff's deputies and a medical examiner descended on Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport overnight after bodies were found in an aircraft compartment on a JetBlue Airways plane. JetBlue issued a statement that said two people were found dead in an aircraft's landing gear compartment on Monday night. The bodies were found during a routine inspection after the plane landed. "The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation," JetBlue said. "This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred." The carrier said the aircraft most recently operated as Flight 1801 from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. According to CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave, the Airbus A320 departed JFK on Monday night at 8:20 p.m. The night temperatures in New York were frigid. It arrived in Fort Lauderdale a few minutes late at 11:03 p.m. Its cruising altitude was approximately 38,000 feet for the two-hour and 43-minute flight, per flightradar24. The plane began its day in Kingston, Jamaica, according to the Transportation Security Administration. It then flew to JFK in New York, then to Salt Lake City, Utah, then back to JFK before ending up in Fort Lauderdale, according to Van Cleave, who said the plane overnighted in Kingston after arriving from JFK on Jan. 5th. It is protocol for pilots to do a walk around the plane before each flight. Part of the inspection is to check the wheel wells. It's possible that the people weren't immediately visible in this case, according to Van Cleave. According to the Broward Sheriff's Office, the deceased are both male and beyond that their identities are unknown. The Jamaica Observer is reporting the two dead are believed to be Jamaican nationals, but CBS News Miami has not independently confirmed that information. On Tuesday afternoon, Kamina Smith, Jamaica's Foreign Minister took to social media and posted on X: "We have noted distressing reports in the media regarding the discovery of two deceased persons in the wheel well of an aircraft in Fort Lauderdale. While there is speculation regarding the nationalities of the persons found, our information to date is that this matter still under investigation by authorities, with the identities of the deceased individuals yet to be officially confirmed." Broward Sheriff crime and homicide detectives are working to learn how they ended up in the wheel compartment. The county's Medical Examiner's Office will perform autopsies to determine what caused their deaths. "It's clearly a security breach there. You wonder if it's too many passengers, it's the holidays, but that should never happen," said JetBlue passenger Steve Daoust. Van Cleave says the wheel well is not typically pressurized or heated and temperatures at altitude are well below freezing. People who choose to stow away like this almost always face death. A similar incident happened over the holidays in Hawaii. A body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines flight from Chicago when the plane landed in Maui. There is no explanation for how the person got on the ramp. JetBlue Airways is headquartered in Long Island City in Queens, New York. It has a field office on the property of Orlando International Airport. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada On-the-ground look at the Palisades Fire burning in southern California A U.S. Steel facility in Clairton, Pa. The chief executive of U.S. Steel appealed directly to President-elect Donald Trump to take a second look at a Japanese companys $15 billion deal to buy the American steelmaker. President Joe Biden on Friday blocked the deal between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel, citing national security concerns after a key business-review panel failed to reach a consensus on whether the acquisition posed any risks. Both companies sued the administration over the decision. Trump has also opposed Nippons purchase of the once-iconic Pittsburgh-based firm and again questioned the proposed sale on Monday. But David Burritt, the U.S. Steel CEO, told CNBC on Tuesday that he believes he can appeal to Trumps business sensibilities. We have a new president that will take a fresh look at this. We understand what his current views are, but hes a smart guy, Burritt said. He added that he hopes Trump will see how this helps make U.S. Steel great again. And frankly, Nippon is going to pay for it, he said, echoing Trumps frequent assertions during the 2016 campaign that Mexico would pay for a wall along the U.S. southern border, which never came to pass. A spokesperson for Trump referred to his earlier comments on the matter. A White House spokesperson reiterated a statement provided to NBC News on Monday night: President Biden will never hesitate to protect the security of this nation, its infrastructure, and the resilience of its supply chains. Since winning the election, Trump has seen a deluge of business leaders visiting his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida as they seek to win favor with the incoming administration. Among the many visitors, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, and Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Trump's inaugural committee has also seen millions in donations from Apple, Amazon, OpenAI, Uber, Meta, and some of their executives personally. Twenty mayors and community leaders in Pennsylvania and Indiana called on Biden to approve the deal in a letter in late December. On the opposite side, the United Steelworkers International repeatedly pressed Biden to block the deal. The union said last week said it had "no doubt that it's the right move for our members and our national security" and praised the president's decision Friday. Burritt said any potential national security concerns about the agreement could be easily mitigated. He said Biden had tainted the process by making it clear since the deal was announced that he would side with unions and didn't allow the review to play out as it is supposed to. The U.S. Steel chief also dismissed Bidens concerns that the firm needed to remain American owned and operated for national security and supply-chain reasons. In fact, it strengthens national security, it strengthens economic security, it strengthens job security. In fact, it grows the business, he said. Burritt declined to speculate on what would happen to U.S. Steel if the companys lawsuits or the incoming administration do not change the outcome. Nobody in the integrated mill space is better than Nippon, and theyre going to do great things for the workers here in Pennsylvania, in Indiana, and all the places we do business. For its part, Nippon Steel has said there is no reason to need to give up on its deal. This is not just the most important matter for our companys business strategy. I am firmly convinced this is something extremely beneficial for both Japan and the United States, Nippons chairman and CEO told reporters Monday night. Both companies have emphasized in their lawsuits that never before has a President prohibited an acquisition by a company based in Japan, one of our closest allies. Canadian PM to step down while opposition complains "nothing has changed" Xinhua) 08:27, January 07, 2025 Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks at the third Business Summit of the Americas in Lima, Peru, April 13, 2018. (XinhuaXu Rui) "I intend to resign as party leader and 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," Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. OTTAWA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday morning he is stepping down after a party race while the opposition leader complained that nothing has changed. Giving a speech outside his home at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he will stay on as Prime Minister until his successor is chosen. "I intend to resign as party leader and 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," Trudeau said. "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," Trudeau said. The prime minister said Governor General Mary Simon had granted his request to prorogue Parliament until March 24. "Nothing has changed," federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said on his social media, questioning what has changed with Trudeau's announcement. "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," said Poilievre, the official opposition leader. Trudeau is facing a revolt within his caucus and dismal public opinion polls, which indicate that his party is likely to be swept from power by Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives in an election, according to local media. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) The threshold for opening warming centers 24 degrees. That's too low for vulnerable people sleeping on the streets. Brandpoint Weather forecasters sounded the alarm four days in advance. Temperatures would drop Sunday from a balmy high in the 70s to below freezing. Yet, even with that lead time, no warming centers were opened in Houston. People sleeping on the streets were left exposed to the elements because, even on days with good weather, our homeless shelters run at or near capacity. The consequences were predictable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Monday morning, a man was found dead at a bus stop in Second Ward near a Sellers Bros. grocery store. A Metro spokesperson said a preliminary investigation showed that the man died from exposure to the cold. The city didnt fail to open warming centers out of a lack of preparation. It was protocol. The temperatures didnt get low enough to trigger the citys emergency response, said Brian Mason, director of the Houston Office of Emergency Management. Meagan Garrett, 20, pushes her husband, Damacio Perez, 22, in a wheelchair as they try to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann The thresholds, he said, are 24 degrees or 15 degrees wind chill sustained for two hours or more. Debra Kimber, 72, talks with Meagan Garrett, 20, as they try to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann Richard Deas, 40, center, tries to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann Houston should rethink those thresholds. Everyone who carried their potted plants inside knows better. People who put out cardboard boxes lined with blankets for their feline friends know better. And our most vulnerable human neighbors deserve better. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to Dr. Carrie Bakunas, assistant professor and medical director of emergency services at TMC Memorial Hermann Hospital, Patients can experience hypothermia and symptoms of hypothermia at temperatures above freezing. Raising the threshold somewhere above 32 degrees Fahrenheit would be reasonable and compassionate. The city should consult medical experts on the full range of factors that contribute to hypothermia and which temperatures and conditions should trigger assistance. The unhoused people this editorial board has been interviewing over the last year and a half for our series on homelessness in Houston are desperate for assistance. Debra Kimber, 72, tries to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann Debra Kimber, the 72-year-old former security guard we wrote about last month, still lives in Tranquillity Park. She tried to go to the George R. Brown Convention Center, which was used as a shelter after Hurricane Harvey, but it was closed. She survived Sunday night by making a cave-like structure out of blankets and a plastic tarp. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Richard Deas, 40, told us Monday in Tranquillity Park that he went to a Salvation Army shelter but it was full. One couple said they were turned away from the Star of Hope. Richard Deas, 40, center, tries to stay warm in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann The problem isnt just that the city did not open up warming centers but that the nonprofit sector doesnt have the resources to fill in the gaps, either. Mason, the head of the citys Office of Emergency Management, noted that blankets and sleeping bags were distributed, and that individuals seeking additional support should dial 211 Texas/United Way helpline. Hoping to find options for Kimber and others, an editorial board member contacted 211 on Sunday evening using the online chat feature and was given the names of three shelters: one in Austin, another in Baytown and the third one in Houston but only for young adults between 18 and 24. The United Way helpline is a powerful tool that connects people to resources, but only if the resources are actually available. Star of Hope told Houston Public Media that the lack of city-operated warming centers put a strain on their private facilities. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A dog is chained near his owners possessions in Tranquillity Park in Downtown Houston, TX on Monday, January 6, 2024. The Houston area is experiencing its coldest temperatures in nearly a year and the city has not opened warming centers. Sharon Steinmann Mayor John Whitmire has said hell end street homelessness by ramping up enforcement of camping bans while raising funds for more shelter and permanent housing options. We have urged philanthropists and taxpayers to support his goal. by Melani Manel Perera Sri Lanka joins many other Asian countries grappling with demographic winter. Some 15 years ago, more than 350,000 children were born a year. Emigration is a contributing factor. According to estimates, by 2041 one in four Sri Lankans will be over 60 years. Colombo (AsiaNews) Sri Lanka reported only 228,091 births last year, following a steady decline from the early 2000s when the country had more than 350,000 births per year. The Director General of the Department of Census and Statistics, Anoja Seneviratne, who made the announcement, took part recently in a policy dialogue centred on the issue of demographic decline, an issue highlighted by Dr Deepal Perera, consultant paediatrician at Lady Ridgeway Hospital in Colombo. The decline in the paediatric population is mainly due to the migration of many young individuals, with a significant number either reluctant to marry or opting not to have children because of the current economic crisis, Dr Perera said at a meeting titled Shaping the future of Sri Lanka. In her view, the existing child population must also be protected, since they are vulnerable to various communicable or non-communicable diseases, as well as psychological problems. Sri Lankas total fertility rate, which was 5.3 children per woman in 1953, fell to just 1.97 in 2023, below the replacement level of 2.1 that demographers believe is needed to maintain a stable population. According to projections in the 2022 Revision of World Population Prospects, Sri Lanka's current annual population growth rate of 0.35 per cent is expected to stop around 2035 followed by a decline in the population. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), lower fertility is linked to the other major demographic change, i.e. a rapidly aging of the population. By 2041, one in four Sri Lankans is expected to be over 60 years old. Photo: Flickr / McCourtie/World Bank In Italy for university study, the students encountered the Christian faith through a journey shared with the monastic community of the Piccola Famiglia dell'Assunta di Montetauro. Card. Zuppi: Sign of a community of believers from every nation. Bologna (AsiaNews) - Five Chinese university students yesterday marked teh Feast of the Epiphany by receiving the sacraments of Christian initiation in the Cathedral of Bologna, during the Mass of the Peoples presided over by the Archbishop, Card. Matteo Zuppi. The celebration included eight languages, and was attended not only by the Catholics of Bologna but also by a dozen international Catholic communities present in the Italian city. Significantly, on the feast that looks to the East, where the three Magi came from to honour Jesus, it was precisely five young Chinese university students, in Bologna for studies, who received baptism, communion and confirmation and thus entered the community of the Catholic Church. Gregorio, Maria, Chiara, Teresa and Lucia, these are their Christian names, have been prepared over the past two years in contact with the Piccola Famiglia dell'Assunta of Montetauro (Rimini), the monastic community spread throughout the Romagna region with family houses that take in disabled people and that have activated a virtuous contact with the Chinese communities in the area. A large group of monks and nuns from Montetauro were also present, accompanied by their founder Fr Lanfranco Bellavista and the Chinese presbyter Savio Yan, who has lived in their community for many years and specifically accompanied young catechumens in catechesis. Card. Zuppi stressed in his homily that the people present in the cathedral is the Church as it should be, that is, a community of believers called from different nations. The cardinal also recalled the fact that the five young people came from the great and noble nation of China. The event in Bologna is ideally in continuity with the initiative promoted last 3 December by AsiaNews and the PIME Centre with the Chinese Catholic community in Milan, where a number of young Chinese people also spoke and gave testimony of their faith. by Nirmala Carvalho In 2024, the northern Indian state recorded its worst sex ratio at birth since 2016. For Dr Pascoal Carvalho, female foeticides are carried out clandestinely. A campaign promoted by Prime Minister Modi in 2015 only temporarily curbed the trend. Gurgaon (AsiaNews) New, alarming data about the number of females per thousand males at birth are coming out of the northern Indian state of Haryana, one of the most economically advanced in India. Speaking to AsiaNews, Dr Pascoal Carvalho, a former member of the Pontifical Academy for Life, said that this reflects Indias deep-rooted gender prejudice against girls. In 2024, the State of Haryana recorded the lowest ratio in eight years, with 910 girls per 1,000 boys at birth (in 2023 the number was 916). The sex ratio at birth is a key indicator of gender equality. In India, data are collected by the Civil Registration System (CRS), which monitors the statistical evolution of deaths and births. According to provisional data prepared by state health authorities for 2024, 516,402 babies were born last year, 270,354 boys (52.35 per cent) and 246,048 girls (47.64 per cent), 24,306 fewer girls than boys in the twelve-month period. Declining sex ratio could possibly indicate that girls are being killed in the womb. The practice of female foeticide, contravening legislation banning sex-determination tests and selective abortions are being carried out clandestinely, Dr Carvalho explained. The Catholic Church in India tireless emphasises the value and dignity of human life, he added. Established by Saint John Paul II in 1994, the purpose of the Pontifical Academy for Life is the defence and promotion of the value of human life and the dignity of the person, but Dr Carvalho laments that Societal biases against female children continue despite economic progress. According to the data, the maximum number of births (57,961) in Haryana in 2024 occurred in the district of Nuh, one of the most backward in the country. However, at 928, its sex ratio is among the best in the state's 22 districts, behind only Yamunanagar (936) and Sirsa (936). Gurgaon recorded 45,344 births in 2024, but with a ratio of 899. Gurgaon is one of the districts with a biological sex ratio of less than 900. Faridabad also has the same ratio (899) with 48,777 births in 2024. To stem the decline in the biological sex ratio in Haryana, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the daughters, Educate the daughters) campaign in 2015 to address all issues related to women's empowerment in their life cycle. After the campaign, the states sex ratio improved, rising to 923 in 2019, but since 2020 it has started to decrease again, a trend that continues to this day. For its part, The church has been very active in empowering women through education, legal aid, healthcare, and sustainable development to educate the mother to protect the life of the girl child, Carvalho noted. by Dario Salvi Since the beginning of the conflict, at least 16,000 workers have come from India to replace the blockades in the West Bank and the Strip. Influx destined to increase thanks to targeted campaigns. In the north, farmers from Thailand are returning, among the migrants who have paid the most in terms of victims and kidnappings. From 165,000 to only 15,000 Palestinians working in Israel. Milan (AsiaNews) - Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza, which has been going on for over 15 months with the inevitable streak of bloodshed and devastation, has also had a profound impact on the economy and employment, especially among migrant workers who are increasingly replacing Palestinians. According to the latest estimates, since 7 October 2023 - the day of the extremist group's attack that triggered the Jewish state's military reaction - at least 16,000 Indian workers, mainly in the construction sector, have left their country of origin to move to Israel. However, according to experts, the number would still not be sufficient to cover the needs caused by the permit blockade, which has simultaneously deprived tens of thousands of Palestinians of a job and dried up their families' sources of income. India is the fifth largest economy in the world and among the fastest growing, but struggles to create enough domestic jobs for millions of people. With the conflict in the Strip there has been a further strengthening of recruitment through targeted campaigns in the construction sector to replace Palestinians who are increasingly unable to cross the borders on a daily basis. Recruitment campaign Samir Khosla, president of Delhi-based Dynamic Staffing Services, which has sent around 500,000 Indians to work in more than 30 countries around the world, has so far transferred more than 3,500 workers to Israel, a new market with further expansion possibilities. The entrepreneur came a month after the 7 October attack, taking up the call of local authorities seeking foreign workers in the construction industry, a sector frozen due to the war. We did not know the market and there was no Indian workforce yet, Khosla explained, so we had to move and understand the needs. He considers India a natural choice for Israel considering the excellent relations between the two governments, while the goal is to bring up to 10,000 employees, having a large pool of skilled workers in all sectors. In a short time, you can earn much more in Israel, says Suresh Kumar Verma, 39, a native of Uttar Pradesh and employed at a construction site north of Tel Aviv. Israeli researchers explain that the number of Indian migrants still does not match the number of Palestinians present before the war, which hinders the overall growth of the sector. According to Eyal Argov of the Central Bank, before the Hamas attack, about 80,000 Palestinians, mostly from the West Bank, were employed in the construction sector, together with almost 26,000 foreigners. Now the number of foreigners employed is around 30 thousand, a figure that is insufficient, so much so that activity in the sector in the last quarter of 2024 is about 25 per cent below pre-war levels. The number of Indian workers, Argov adds, is still very low and, while this does not create a housing shortage at the moment, it could lead to delays for new housing. Israel, the expert concludes, has a growing population [although there has been a slowdown in the past year and, in tandem, a spike in migration, ed], which is increasing by 2% per year, and this delay could lead to structural shortages in the future. Thai at the northern front In 2023, 17% of the 137,000 or so foreign nationals with work permits in Israel were Indians, closely followed by migrants from the Philippines and Thailand, both at 16%. At the same time, there was significant growth in Chinese jobs, which increased by 15% between 2022 and 2023. Thai farmers are among the migrants most exposed to the conflict, given that they are employed in the north, in the border area with Lebanon considered off-limits to the Israelis themselves due to the war - now frozen after the signing of a fragile ceasefire - with Hezbollah. Despite the tension, and with permission granted by the army, farm owners and foreign workers continue to work in the area, tending fields and livestock. Although agriculture has gradually declined as a percentage of GDP for Israel in recent years, the country remains famous for the products of the land, which are exported to the United States and the European Union, among others, with a turnover of .5 billion in 2021. Ubon Namsan, originally from Thailand, says he got used to the hissing sound that preceded the arrival of rockets from the land of cedars, whose border lies just a few kilometres north of the kiwi orchard whose rows he scours for ripe fruit. Like the vast majority of the 30,000 foreign farm labourers in Israel, the 28-year-old has learnt to take refuge in the basement of an adjacent farm shed to shelter from the bombs. To compensate for the risks, a salary that is three times higher than what he could earn in his home country, averaging 00 per month. To this is added a further as an incentive for working in what Israel has classified as a military zone, in a context that remains one of war and tension. Foreigners have also taken their toll: among the 1,200 people killed on 7 October 2023 in the Hamas attack were at least 66 migrant workers, most of them Thai. Another 251 people were taken hostage, including 31 Thai farmers - the fate of a couple of whom remains uncertain - and a Filipina caregiver. Dangers are still present, as confirmed by the death in October of a Thai labourer near the northern border killed by an explosive device detonated when a tractor passed by, or of a farm owner and four Thai farmers hit by Hezbollah rockets in the northern city of Metula. The Palestinian blockade While the number of Asian migrant workers has increased, the number of Palestinians has plummeted: according to a study by Statista Research Department, before 7 October 2023, around 165,000 people from the West Bank and Gaza were working (more or less) permanently in Israel, most of them - around 75,000 - commuting in the construction sector. Following the outbreak of the war, their number was reduced to only 15,000, despite the progressive interdependence of the Israeli and Palestinian economies, especially in the agricultural and construction sectors. Hence the accusation by trade union groups and activists to the Jewish state of having violated international law (also) on labour issues, withholding salaries and benefits from almost 200,000 Palestinians. Moreover, the Israeli government has allegedly blatantly violated the International Labour Organisation (Ilo) convention on the protection of wages, throwing Palestinians into extreme poverty. One of the reasons is the non-payment for services rendered before the start of the conflict by workers from the Strip and the West Bank, who are still waiting for their compensation. Ilo estimates pu the average daily wage for Palestinian workers in Israel at , with weekly salaries between 5 and 0. Furthermore, unemployment among Palestinians reached an all-time high with a figure of 89% last March as reported by Prime Minister Mohamed Mustafa. Finally, in an attempt to recover unpaid emoluments last week, movements and activists filed a complaint in court, with little chance of success. GATEWAY TO THE EAST IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO THE MIDDLE EAST. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY TUESDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE. Today's news: Malaysia and Sinngapore agree on shared Special Economic Zone in Johor; The Lebanese army deploys in Naqoura with the withdrawal of Israeli soldiers; Indonesian President Prabowo's free meal plan kicks off; Kirill addresses the Orthodox of Ukraine in his Christmas message. TIBET-CHINA A strong earthquake struck the mountainous region of Tibet, at the foot of the Himalayan range, this morning. Official Chinese sources speak of at least 95 confirmed dead and more than 100 people injured. The quake hit the holy city of Tibet, Shigatse, at around 0900 local time with a magnitude of 7.1 and a depth of 10 kilometres, according to data from the US Geological Survey. The tremors were also felt in neighbouring Nepal and parts of India. MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE The governments of Malaysia and Singapore announced the establishment of a jointly managed Special Economic Zone in Johor that will be earmarked for global investment. The two countries aim to create 20,000 skilled jobs in the first five years. The announcement was made by Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at a bilateral summit in Putrajaya today. Investments related to 11 sectors will be promoted in the new Special Economic Zone: manufacturing, logistics, food security, tourism, energy, digital economy, green economy, financial services, business services, education and health. LEBANON The Lebanese army announced that its units have positioned themselves around the location of Naqoura and have begun to deploy to the Unifil commando site in parallel with the withdrawal of the Israeli army, as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. The deployment of the army coincided with the third meeting of the committee in charge of overseeing the understanding between Hezbollah and Israel, chaired by US envoy Amos Hochstein. INDONESIA In Indonesia, President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious plan to provide free meals to more than a quarter of the population officially kicked off yesterday. On the first day, 570,000 meals were provided for school children and pregnant women in more than 20 provinces. When fully implemented, the plan - on which Prabowo has focused his election campaign - aims to reach 82.9 million of the country's 280 million inhabitants by 2029. BANGLADESH-UNITED ARAB EMIRATES At least 461 Bangladeshis own 929 properties in Dubai worth at least Taka 50 billion (about 400 million euro). This was revealed in an investigation by the Dhaka daily The Daily Star into the wealth parked abroad by their countrymen. RUSSIA-UKRAINE In his Christmas message, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow declared that he was in full unity with all the faithful of the Upz Church of Ukraine, despite all declarations of autonomy, asking the Ukrainian Orthodox to have the courage to profess their faith even in the face of threats from the government and parliament in Kiev, suffering for Christ and for the truth. KAZAKHSTAN-UZBEKISTAN The construction of a new Darbaza-Maktaaral railway line between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan was inaugurated in recent days, to be finished by 2027 as an important element for the entire regional transport infrastructure, as an alternative to the Saryagas-Tasskent route, with an investment of over half a billion dollars. South Koreas anti-corruption agency investigating the martial law attempt continues to meet resistance from the presidents security detail and lawyers. Yoon has refused to be questioned three times. Meanwhile, the parliamentary committee charged with impeachment (dominated by the opposition) is trying to speed up the process so that it can reach the Constitutional Court. Seoul (AsiaNews/Agencies) More than a month after South Korea plunged into its current political crisis, the government and the opposition have been unable to overcome the stalemate over the fate of President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was impeached for declaring martial law on the evening of 3 December. This morning Oh Dong-woo, chief of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), went before the parliamentary committee dealing with the impeachment process. After apologising for failing to execute the arrest warrant against the president, he promised that another attempt will be made soon. On Friday, hundreds of CIO officials confronted the presidential security service, in a standoff that lasted six hours. Impeachment proceedings are set to start next week, but Yoon has so far ignored summons to appear for questioning. After the arrest attempt, Yoons residence was barricaded, surrounded by barbed wire, and is constantly guarded by hundreds of agents. Investigators asked the police to execute the arrest warrant, but the officers refused to carry out the order, questioning its legality. Taking Yoon into custody will depend on the CIOs next actions; while it has already decided to issue a new warrant, it is not yet clear whether a court would give it the power to detain Yoon for up to 20 days. According to observers, security remains an obstacle. Acting President Choi Sang-mock has not given in to pressure from the opposition, which holds a majority in the National Assembly since April 2024, to fire law enforcement officers and government officials who oppose Yoon's arrest. Yoons lawyers back the resistance from the presidents People Power Party, arguing that the arrest warrant is "illegal" since the investigators lack the authority in cases of insurrection, the charge the president must answer for. Similarly, the presidential security chief stated that Yoon must remain in office until the Constitutional Court rules on impeachment. The Democratic Party of Korea, which leads the opposition, accused the security services of turning into Yoon's "private militia". To speed up the legal process, the parliamentary committee handling the case today said that it was dropping the insurrection charge against Yoon to let the Constitutional Court decide on constitutional violations in Yoon's failed martial law bid. The presidents impeachment trial is set to begin Tuesday, next week, even in his absence, with precedents set in 2004 and 2016 with the impeachments of Presidents Roh Moo-Hyun and Park Geun-hye. The Constitutional Court has up to 180 days to rule whether to remove Yoon or restore his powers. Meanwhile, public opinion appears increasingly polarised. Over the weekend, hundreds of protesters braved a heavy snowfall to protest for and against Yoon, who in recent weeks has galvanised his supporters by vowing to "fight to the end". Yesterday, PPP lawmakers gathered at the former president's residence with police forced to block access streets to stop them. The situation is beginning to worry South Korea's allies, particularly the United States, which has so far worked hard to improve diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan in an attempt to counter Beijing. According to experts, with Donald Trump set to return to the White House, the US has no intention of getting involved in South Korean domestic politics but will pursue as a priority opposition to Chinas growing influence. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he has "full confidence" in South Korea's institutions and the South Korean people in resolving the crisis. Refugees from Afghanistan arrive at Sacramento International Airport on Dec. 6, 2024. Andri Tambunan/Special to the Chronicle No more refugees Regarding Jalil Dawoods op-ed Im a refugee who voted for Trump. Heres what hes missing about the U.S. refugee program. (Jan. 3): I for one appreciate Mr. Dawoods reflection on his love of America and the opportunity it gave him some 40 years ago. But its time for America to get its own house in order before taking on even more refugees from around the world, no matter their plight. For starters, the rampant illegal immigration of the last four years needs to be rectified. At the same time, we have plenty of American citizens who are homeless, addicted to drugs or suffering from mental illness who need help. Mr. Dawood talks of fleeing violence, which begs the question: Where do the American citizens living on the south side of Chicago or East St. Louis or Baltimore go to escape gang violence? Its not a gun safety issue, its a violent criminal issue. What about our failing schools, many of which are located in these same inner cities and others across our country? In Dallas ISD, fewer than half of elementary and middle school students are at grade level in math and reading. We are failing our own children across this not-so-great land these days. So yes, lets pause taking those in from around the world until we can get our own house in order. Reagans shining city on a hill has grown quite dim in the four decades since Mr. Dawood first arrived here. Tim Graney, Katy Advertisement Article continues below this ad Appropriate outrage Regarding the editorial Too emotional over Milby students train death? Not possible (Jan. 5): When a young life is lost in such a tragic and preventable way, it is not only appropriate, but necessary to respond with urgency and emotion. To suggest otherwise especially by dismissively telling a U.S. representative to calm down reveals a lack of understanding of the gravity of the situation. This isnt about being too emotional. Its about demanding accountability and change to prevent such tragedies from happening again. Emotion drives action, and in moments of profound loss, its often the only way to cut through indifference, bureaucracy and political correctness. To Sergios family, friends, students of Milby High School and the Latino community grieving this unimaginable, preventable loss, know that your pain and outrage are valid. And to those who call for calm instead of action: Its time to listen to the voices that refuse to let this become just another statistic. Yes, I am outraged! Lives are at stake here. Passionate advocacy is not a flaw; its a necessity. Blanca Blanco, Houston Farewell, Chief Justice Hecht Regarding the editorial Texas Chief Justice Nathan Hecht was a model of judicial integrity. Abbotts replacement should follow his lead (Jan. 6): The headline on the Chronicles editorial is right. Whats more, Justice Hecht leaves a court that is respected for interpreting the law rather than legislating from the bench. Its been decades since 60 Minutes aired its "Justice for Sale" expose, revealing that some Texas Supreme Court justices at the time had taken in millions of dollars in campaign contributions from personal injury lawyers and other special interests. The report left a black eye on the courts reputation and called into question the legitimacy of its rulings. Those days are thankfully behind us, but we cant lose sight of the fact that good judges do matter. Thats why Texans Against Lawsuit Abuse will continue to urge voters to examine the record and experience of judicial candidates whenever they are on the ballot, before casting an informed vote. Robert Wood, spokesman, Texans Against Lawsuit Abuse Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jeep Weekend The position became vacant in early December after its previous holder, Ambakum Grigorian, was effectively dismissed by the newly appointed Justice Minister Srbuhi Galian. Grigorian ran the service for less than a year. Speaking ahead of his removal, Galian, who is also 32, said she plans to surround herself with professionals who share my and my political teams approaches. She also replaced virtually all deputy justice ministers and the head of an agency enforcing judicial acts. The new Penitentiary Service chief, Tsovinar Tadevosian, has until now headed a division of the service dealing with social, psychological and legal affairs. Pashinian announced Tadevosians impending appointment shortly after receiving her in his office. She will be the first-ever female head of the agency. Zaruhi Hovannisian, a member of a team of civic activists monitoring prison conditions in Armenia, hailed Tadevosians appointment, saying that she is a skilled person with high professional qualifications who should have positive influence on the countrys penitentiary system. Hovannisian told RFE/RLs Armenian Service that the system has remained too punitive and undergone few changes during Pashinians rule. She said reforms expected by her from Tadevosian could therefore meet with strong resistance from senior prison personnel. 7 January 2025 14:01 (UTC+04:00) By Farman Aydin | AzerNEWS The deepening rifts in French-Azerbaijani relations have already begun to widen significantly on a global scale. The situation has a serious impact not only on political but also on economic relations. As France's centre-left President Emmanuel Macron loses his influence in power, his aggression against official Baku is simultaneously increasing. The anti-Macron and anti-French protests that have arisen domestically and in the French overseas islands are somehow associated with Baku. Macron claims that Azerbaijan interferes in France's domestic and foreign policy and, making unfounded statements, calls on Azerbaijan not to support the small island states. Interestingly, the French government, which positions itself as an international human rights defender, considers its colonial policy towards New Caledonia and other colonised overseas territories acceptable and calls their support from outside a provocation. More explicitly, Baku is blamed for the growing hatred of the Macron government in these island states. So how come France, with a GDP of over 3 trillion and a strong military potential, sees Azerbaijan as such an obstacle? French-Azerbaijani relations began to change dramatically after the Second Garabagh War in 2020. This resulted in a strained political, economic, and cultural relationship. France, defending Armenia, which had occupied the Azerbaijani territories of Garabagh and East Zangazur, declared an openly biased diplomatic war against Azerbaijan. France, knowingly defending Armenia's crimes in Garabagh, began to blatantly defend it within the framework of international law. Even at multilateral meetings, the French administration influenced the decisions of the European Union and unfairly accused Baku. After the last anti-terrorist operation in 2023, France's position towards Azerbaijan worsened and, with the support of the Armenian lobby, began to continue in the form of anti-Azerbaijani propaganda. From time to time, such provocations and anti-Azerbaijani slogans began to break the bonds in French-Azerbaijani relations. Instead of restoring the delicate situation, France, which further aggravated it, once again demonstrated its biased position with its latest step back in November. By refusing to participate in the 29th event of the COP held in Baku, established on the basis of the Paris Agreement document, France demonstrated not only its bias against Baku, but also its betrayal on the global stage. France did not stop at this and did not refrain from smear and defamation campaigns against COP29 and continued its cheap campaigns through Armenia. Azerbaijan, on the other hand, maintained its honest position on the global stage and did not spare its support for the oppressed peoples within its chairmanship to the non-aligned movement. Although France calls this interference in state policy, the position of hundreds of small countries that have been subjected to oppression is completely different today. France, which ignored the occupied Azerbaijani territories and Armenian crimes, got unmasked and failed to successfully play the role of an international human rights defender. Therefore, the French authorities are looking for the culprit in the wrong place at the wrong time due to its lost reputation 7 January 2025 20:11 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more On January 6, at about 14:10, Armenian armed forces from positions near Digh settlement in the Gorus region once again opened fire on Azerbaijan Army positions in the direction of Zabukh settlement in the Lachin region. This provocation follows a similar incident on January 5, when Armenian forces fired on same Azerbaijani positions near Zabukh and Jagazur settlements, demonstrating a troubling pattern. Armenia appears to be demonstrating a clear direction as we enter the new year. The most recent incident occurred four months ago, on September 5, in the Kalbajar region. Given the activity from both sidesparticularly Armeniaregarding the signing of a peace treaty since that time, many were hopeful that an agreement would finally be reached. However, this has not come to pass. Another noteworthy aspect of this incident is its timing. The Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan drew attention with the ideas he presented in his annual speech on December 31, just before the New Year holiday. His address featured a recurring theme: Real Armenia. This phrase appeared no less than eleven times in the short, two-page message. Pashinyan emphasized the need for Armenia to focus on its true self, without delusions of territorial expansion. He said, Real Armenia, the Republic of Armenia with an area of 29,743 square kilometres, must become the guiding ideology not only for the government and the parliamentary majority but also for every citizen of the Republic of Armenia. Later, Pashinyan added, We must change and transform, dear people, dear citizens of the Republic of Armenia. Notably, for the first time in several years following the war in 2020, Pashinyan did not mention "Artsakh" or "Nagorno-Karabakh" in his New Years message. Furthermore, there were no significant references to these "issues." He even hinted at the need to amend the Armenian constitution, suggesting that territorial claims against neighbours were a harmful and outdated approach. It's indeed positive progress considering both parties 'deadlocked' processes. Yet, he remains ensnared in a web of lies and a flawed system. His stance on this issue remains inconsistent, as he has previously backtracked on his own remarks about constitutional changes and attempted to accuse Azerbaijans constitution of territorial claims against Armenia. At the same time, in 2024, steps have been taken towards the militarization of Armenia, with the country becoming more aligned with the collective West. Despite this, Pashinyan did not mention military development in his address, leading some to believe that he was attempting to improve his partys image by focusing on non-revisionist discourse. However, this is a deceptive strategy. Pashinyans actions show a clear intent to advance Armenia's military capabilities, while public rhetoric may suggest otherwise. President Ilham Aliyev has once again highlighted the growing threat posed by Armenias militarization. In his address on the occasion of World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year, he voiced his concern over Armenias military buildup, stressing that it lacked a logical basis. If we were to note the most worrying moment for us this year, of course, it would be Armenia's armament. There is no logical explanation for this. Armenia has faced a complete fiasco with its policy of aggression. Their military defeats in 2020 and then 2023 should have shown them the right path. We were trying to do this and are continuing our efforts to this day. I have repeatedly urged them both in my official statements and during our negotiations with the Armenian side to stay away from this dangerous path. He warned that Armenias rapid militarization and large-scale armament posed a significant threat to regional stability. I believe that Armenia's large-scale armament campaign is yet another source of threat to the region. Therefore, let me say again, it is not too late for them to turn back from this dangerous path. The South Caucasus should be a region of peace, security and cooperation. Armenia's large-scale and rapid militarization and the supply of deadly weapons can disrupt this peace, the possible peace. I must also mention one thing. Azerbaijan will not simply observe this. This uptick in hostilities also comes amid Armenia's ongoing attempts to make decisions regarding the arrest of former generals and a thorough investigation into the mistakes made during the 44-day war. The scrutiny over past military failures raises questions about why Armenia justifies the actions of the war, even though it waged an aggressive conflict and acknowledges Azerbaijans territorial integrity. This resurgence of military aggression only reaffirms Armenia's position as the aggressor in the conflict. The harsh reality of Armenias military history and its persistent internal dysfunction points to a future where peace may remain elusive unless Armenia alters its course. The reality and the message is clear: Armenias arming itself against Azerbaijan, especially and most probably under the influence of Western powers, will only prolong instability and without meaningful reforms and genuine efforts toward peace, Armenia will remain trapped in a cycle of provocation and defeat. 7 January 2025 11:47 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. In January-December 2024, Turkiye's export of ready-made clothing to Azerbaijan decreased, Azernews reports citing Turkic World. 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! 7 January 2025 17:39 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan has disclosed its official currency reserves, revealing a decline over the past year, Azernews reports. 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! 7 January 2025 19:44 (UTC+04:00) Full digital access to all news for 1 year Full digital access to all news for 6 months Full digital access to all news for 3 months Full digital access to all news for 1 month Find the plan that suits you best. In a notable shift, Turkish automobile exports to Azerbaijan experienced a significant decline in 2024, Azernews reports, citing the Turkish Trade Ministry. 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! Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, left, Pierce Bush, CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star, and Cindy Ramos, a Habitat for Humanity homeowner, sign a wall that honors President Jimmy Carter during a memorial event at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. The City of Houston and Houston Habitat for Humanity symbolically joined together symbolically raised a wall that citizens were encouraged to sign, honoring the countless contributions President Jimmy Carter has made to the organization and to Habitat homeowners for nearly four decades. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer City, county and Habitat for Humanity leaders gathered Tuesday morning in downtown Houstons Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza to celebrate the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, who died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Carter was an integral part of Habitat for Humanity after his time in office. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The former president and his wife, Rosalyn, worked alongside as many as 108,000 Habitat volunteers to build, renovate and repair 4,400 homes in 14 countries as the pair heralded the need for affordable housing, Habitat Houston CEO Allison Hay said Tuesday. Celebrating Carter's legacy People sign wall studs, symbolizing President Jimmy Carters commitment to Habitat for Humanity, during a memorial event honoring the 39th president, at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Helen Callier takes a photo in front of wall dedicated to President Jimmy Carter and his commitment to public service during a memorial event honoring the 39th president, at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Allison Hay, CEO Houston Habitat for Humanity, speaks during a memorial event honoring the President Jimmy Carter at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. The City of Houston and Houston Habitat for Humanity symbolically joined together symbolically raised a wall that citizens were encouraged to sign, honoring the countless contributions President Jimmy Carter has made to the organization and to Habitat homeowners for nearly four decades. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer People sign wall studs, symbolizing President Jimmy Carters commitment to Habitat for Humanity, during a memorial event honoring the 39th president, at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Mayor John Whitmire speaks during a memorial event honoring the President Jimmy Carter at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. The city of Houston and Houston Habitat for Humanity joined together to raise a wall that citizens were encouraged to sign, honoring the contributions President Jimmy Carter has made to the organization and to Habitat homeowners for nearly four decades. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Mayor John Whitmire signs a wall that honors President Jimmy Carter during a memorial event at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Bettie Kindle, left, and Dorothy Long sign a wall that honors President Jimmy Carter during a memorial event at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. The City of Houston and Houston Habitat for Humanity symbolically joined together symbolically raised a wall that citizens were encouraged to sign, honoring the countless contributions President Jimmy Carter has made to the organization and to Habitat homeowners for nearly four decades. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Former President Jimmy Carter finishes the porch railing he and Rosalynn built for the Wade Gibson home, Wednesday, June 17, 1998, in Houston for Habitat for Humanity's Jimmy Carter Work Project. Steve Ueckert/Houston Chronicle As a part of Houstons celebration, leaders raised a wall that will eventually be built into a Habitat for Humanity home sometime within the next year. That wall featured a sky-blue door emblazoned with a painting of Carter himself in a denim button-down shirt and tan trucker hat with a red bandana tied around his neck. Before Habitat volunteers cement that wall in place, though, members of the public are invited to sign it with personal notes and tributes to Carter. At Tuesdays event, residents stood in line in the biting cold to grab a black Sharpie from a bucket and sign a set of eight two-by-four studs that will eventually be used to build a home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hay worked alongside the Carters through their initiative, the Carter Work Project, an annual event to build homes. In June 1998, Hay and a team of volunteers helped add siding to a home in Fifth Ward. That team, made up of the Carters and 6,000 volunteers, went on to build 100 homes through the course of the week in the heavy Houston heat. It was hard work, Hay said. The Houston Carter Project was special, and it made history. Message are written on a wall that honors President Jimmy Carter during a memorial event at the Barbara Bush Literary Plaza on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 in Houston. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Inspiration for public service Mayor John Whitmire told the crowd that as he walked over to the event, he was trying to figure out what Carter would say. The mayor, who formerly served more than 50 years in the Texas Legislature before coming to City Hall, said Carter had shown him what public service could accomplish. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He didn't put out newsletters. He didn't have social media, Whitmire said. He had his words and his actions, and it not only was demonstrated as a public servant, but he believed public service was a calling, whether you ever were on the ballot or not. While Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said she didnt know Carter personally, she felt she knew him regardless. Hidalgo mentioned an opinion piece Carter wrote after Hurricane Harvey titled: When the waters rise, so do our better angels. I can't think of something that better describes Houston, Harris County, Hidalgo said. He understood that, and he understood that public service and that commitment to people that he always had could continue beyond his presidency, beyond that title that he held. Hidalgo also pointed out Carters legacy surrounding mental health issues, particularly how he created the first presidential commission on mental health. It's a big issue for so many people, said Hidalgo, who took a leave of absence as county judge for several months in 2023 to seek treatment for depression. The more we talk about it, the more we de-stigmatize it, the better it is for all of us. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The wall is open for signing over the next few days. On Wednesday, anyone can stop by from noon to 6 p.m. And on Wednesday and Thursday, the wall can be signed from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carters funeral service will be broadcast on the plaza screen on Thursday. 7 January 2025 16:49 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Renowned South Korean conductor Jong Hoon Bae will visit Baku for the first time, Azernews reports. He will lead the Azerbaijan State Chamber Orchestra in a captivating concert at the Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall on February 6. During the concert,audiences will enjoy Azerbaijani and Russian classical music pieces. The concert program will undoubtedly touch the hearts of listeners. Jong Hoon Bae has earned acclaim for his dynamic approach to music, having collaborated with prestigious orchestras such as the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, the St. Petersburg State Academic Symphony Orchestra, Leipzig Symphony Orchestra, Mihail Jora Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra. 7 January 2025 15:45 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more The human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been spreading in China and Malaysia, does not pose a significant threat to humans, according to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) of South Africa, Azernews reports via TASS. South African scientists assured the public there is no reason for alarm over the virus's spread. "Medical institutions in South Africa are closely monitoring the situation in China and Malaysia, where the highest number of HMPV cases are currently reported," they told EWN radio. Cheryl Cohen, professor of epidemiology at the University of the Witwatersrand and head of the Centre for Respiratory Diseases and Meningitis, emphasized that while HMPV cases may rise globally, the likelihood of a pandemic or mutation into a more dangerous form is minimal. "HMPV is a typical seasonal virus, active during the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere," she explained. Tulio de Oliveira, a leading South African expert on respiratory diseases, echoed this sentiment, stating, "The current outbreak of HMPV in China should not be cause for alarm. Metapneumovirus, while similar to COVID-19, is less dangerous than the common flu and does not pose a serious global threat." HMPV is a well-documented virus that typically causes respiratory inflammation, coughs, and colds. In some cases, it can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia, particularly affecting children and the elderly. Despite its presence, experts assure that the situation remains under control. 7 January 2025 10:22 (UTC+04:00) Qabil Ashirov Read more The Brazilian Air Force's Center for Investigation and Information on Aeronautical Accidents has successfully completed the analysis of the flight recorders (black boxes) from the Azerbaijan Airlines(AZAL) aircraft that crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, Azernews reports, citing international media outlets. The aircraft, an "Embraer 190" passenger plane, on the Baku-Grozny route crashed 3 km from Aktau airport on December 25, 2024. The flight recorders were sent to Brazil for analysis, and the data extraction and verification processes have now been completed. The Brazilian Air Force has handed over the investigation results to the relevant authorities in Kazakhstan. The aircraft had 62 passengers and 5 crew members, totaling 67 people, of which 38 perished including two pilots and a flight attendant. The incident has drawn international attention, with leaders from various countries expressing their condolences. The investigation continues to determine the exact cause of the crash and to prevent similar incidents in the future 7 January 2025 16:38 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more 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, Azernews reports. According to the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan's statement to local media, experts from the commission investigating the crash are now returning to Astana from Brazil with the decoded materials of the black boxes. The commission comprises 17 international experts from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Russia, who are set to immediately begin studying and analyzing the decoded data upon their return. "The members of the commission are returning to Kazakhstan. Upon arrival, the experts will immediately begin studying and analyzing the decoded data of the black boxes," stated the Ministry of Transport. The agency also noted that the experts would arrive in Kazakhstan in the near future. The process of extracting, collecting, and verifying data from the black boxes was finalized in Brazil, with the investigation results already forwarded to the relevant authorities in Kazakhstan, as reported by O Globo. On December 25, an Embraer 190 passenger plane belonging to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), en route from Baku to Grozny, crashed about 3 kilometres from Aktau airport. There were 67 people on board (62 passengers and 5 crew members). Two crew members survived the crash. The crash led to widespread shock, and in response, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree declaring December 26 a day of mourning in the country. He also issued state awards to honor the heroism of the crew. The deceased crew membersIgor Ivanovich Kshnyakin, Alexander Georgievich Kalyaninov, and Hokuma Jalil gizi Aliyevawere posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan, while the injured crew membersZulfiqar Sardar oglu Asadov and Aydan Vagif gizi Rahimlireceived the Order of "Rashadat" of the 1st degree. On December 26, the bodies of four victims and 14 injured passengers were repatriated to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani authorities established a State Commission, led by Prime Minister Ali Asadov, to investigate the causes of the crash. 7 January 2025 17:37 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolences to the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, regarding the victims of the earthquake that occurred in the city of Shigatse, in the Xizang Autonomous Region, Azernews reports. 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! 7 January 2025 21:20 (UTC+04:00) This was the first COP where the President of the European Commission did not attend, though the participation of the President of the Commission was confirmed a couple of months before, Azernews reports that President Ilham Aliyev said during an interview with local TV channels on January 7. There was a lot of time to come. By the way, the Secretary-General of the United Nations came twice: at the opening and at the closing. But again, this message was ignored by the European Commission. Of course, COP29 did not suffer from that, but the absence of the European Commission, which is a party to COP, of course, raises a lot of questions, noted the President. 7 January 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva In 2025, Japan will focus on significantly enhancing its defense capabilities and further strengthening its alliance with the United States, Azernews reports. This was announced by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba during a press conference marking the New Year. Our country's defense capability is a deterrent to anyone starting a war against us, the Prime Minister emphasized. He also stated that Japan would not only increase its defense capabilities but would also bolster its relationship with the United States and deepen its regional partnerships. During his election campaign, Ishiba highlighted his support for the creation of an "Asian NATO" and a collective security system for the region. In an article for the Hudson Institute, he proposed the deployment of American nuclear missiles in Asia and suggested the "joint ownership" of these weapons. Currently, Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is officially discussing the idea of a "NATO-Asia," with a special committee, chaired by former Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera, set up to explore this possibility. Its important to note that Japan's new national security strategy, approved by the government on December 16, 2022, includes the right to carry out counterstrikes against potential enemy targets. However, preemptive strikes were explicitly excluded from the strategy. The new plan also calls for an almost twofold increase in military spending, targeting two percent of GDP by 2027. Japans defense expansion is already in motion, with plans to enhance the range of Type-12 missiles, develop its own hypersonic weapons, and purchase Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States. These steps aim to enable Japan to launch counterstrikes deep into enemy territory if needed, thereby strengthening its defensive posture in the face of rising regional tensions. Japan's growing focus on defense comes amid concerns over China's military expansion, North Korea's missile tests, and regional instability. By solidifying its defense strategies and alliances, Japan is positioning itself as a key player in ensuring regional security in East Asia. 7 January 2025 13:18 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Georgias ruling party has urged French authorities to hold new elections, citing public dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron's leadership, Azernews reports. We have no intention of interfering in Frances internal affairs, but given that 61% of the French population supports President Macron's resignation and 50% want the National Assembly dissolved, new elections would be a good way out of this political crisis, stated the chairman of Georgia's ruling party. This comes in response to France's earlier expression of concern regarding parliamentary elections in Georgia, marking a notable exchange of political criticisms between the two nations. 7 January 2025 18:11 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has warned that his country will not be able to withstand being dragged into a war, citing the dire consequences of such a scenario, Azernews reports via Belta News. In a statement Lukashenko expressed concerns about the current political situation, noting that the situation would become extremely complicated if Belarus were to be pulled into a conflict. Lukashenko also drew comparisons between the political climate in Belarus and Ukraine, highlighting the tension in both countries. "There is a very tense situation in the world, but we must endure it. Time will judge everything as it should be," Lukashenko stated. He further emphasized that while Belarus may be accused of having a dictatorship, it is still preferable to the state of affairs in Ukraine, referencing the ongoing conflict there. "The dictatorship of Belarus is better than the democracy in Ukraine. We cannot withstand war," Lukashenko concluded, reflecting on the challenges facing his country amidst the broader geopolitical tensions. 7 January 2025 22:17 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva On January 6, Venezuela severed diplomatic relations with Paraguay and recalled its diplomats from the country, Azernews reports. "Venezuela, fully exercising its sovereignty, has decided to sever diplomatic relations with the Republic of Paraguay and immediately withdraw its diplomatic staff accredited in that country," the statement said. On January 5, Paraguayan President Santiago Pena announced his support for Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and recognized him as the winner of the Venezuelan presidential election held on July 28. It is important to note that Nicolas Maduro, who won the last election, is set to be sworn in as president of Venezuela on January 10 and will hold the position until 2031. The diplomatic break comes amid rising tensions between Venezuela and Paraguay, which are rooted in the political polarization in Venezuela. While Nicolas Maduros government is recognized by some countries, many others, including Paraguay, continue to support opposition figures. Recently, on the show Salon Drip 2, South Korean actor Song Joong Ki revealed his wishes for his children. The actor, who welcomed his first child with British actress Katy Louise Saunders in 2023, stated that he would consider himself "lucky" if his kids inherited their mother's impressive language skills. As reported by Osen, Song made the comments in an episode that aired on Jan. 7 in which he talked about his love for acting and how he has been learning the craft via informal study groups. But the thing that most people tuned in for was his family life. Song said his wife has lived in many places in her life and speaks perfectly English, Spanish, Italian, and French. He went on to say that he admires her drive to learn languages and wishes their kids would be just like that, too. He then added that he hoped his kid would possess "similar language skills as my wife" as this could improve their quality of life. Read more: Song Joong Ki Reveals How Kim Ji Won Helped Him Achieve His Flawless Skin Song Joong Ki, who shot to fame with memorable dramas like "Descendants of the Sun," also mentioned that his baby takes after him with some physical features. The actor continued: "My first born has my lips, so her eyes look like my wife." On the flip side, he said she got his nose, but the rest of his second child looked much more like Saunders. His honesty about his family life has connected with fans who love his fatherly attitude. Song has since opened the windows to his personal life following his marriage to Saunders, during which they welcomed two kids together, regularly sharing their joys of parenthood on social media. "Salon Drip 2," on which Song made an appearance alongside fellow actor Lee Hee Joon, has made headlines for its candid discussions and as a venue for celebrities to open up about their parenting lives. Baker City Downtown is now accepting letters of intent for the 2025 Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant funded by Oregon Main Street, State Historic Preservation Office, and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Baker City Downtown is incredibly excited to launch the search for our 2025 OMSRG project applicant, rehabilitating historic downtown structures for the benefit of the entire community, said Ariel Reker, BCD executive director. Eligible projects are those that rehabilitate historic structures in the downtown district. Projects should directly lead to new businesses, commercial opportunities, or investments happening downtown, Reker said. Successful projects will be in a state of readiness or can quickly proceed to construction once the grant is awarded. The purpose of the grant program, according to a press release, is to acquire, rehabilitate or construct buildings on properties in designated downtown areas, and facilitate community revitalization that will lead to private investment, job creation or retention, establishing or expanding viable businesses, or creating a stronger tax base. Letters of intent for projects will be accepted from Jan. 13 to Feb. 14. The letters will be reviewed by the BCD grants committee, which will score each project, visit the top scoring projects, and make a selection by Feb. 21. Once selected, Reker will work with the project manager to complete the grant application by March 13. The state will then review all applications and make their final award notifications in May 2025. Eligible projects include facade improvements, interior rehabilitation, structural repairs or improvements, code compliance and energy efficient upgrades. Also, a specific phase of a larger project may be considered. To submit a letter of intent, go to bakercitydowntown.com. Under the resources tab, select grant opportunities. Letters must be submitted by noon on Feb. 14. Reker said late, incomplete, or ineligible projects will not be accepted. The 501(c)3 nonprofit Baker City Downtown has a mission to preserve and enhance the vitality and character of our community through the beautification, promotion, and development of downtown Baker City. BCD is affiliated with Oregon Main Street and follows the Main Street America 4-Point Approach to community revitalization through various events, projects, activities and grants. Canada's Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after crashing poll numbers and the loss of key Liberal "safe seats" in parliament in special elections in Toronto and Quebec city. Trudeau has been the golden boy of the globalist WEF and hated by freedom loving people for his brutal totalitarian style crackdown on the Canadian truckers' Freedom Convoy protests. Canada must hold a parliamentary election by October, but the Conservative Party is demanding a snap election immediately. The Conservatives, then under centrist leadership, were edged out by Trudeau in the last election. Since then, they have moved right and installed new leadership under small "c" Conservative Pierre Poiliievre. The Conservatives, who are going after Trudeau's party on immigration and on its onerous green agenda, now have a 21 point lead in the polls. Trudeau's Liberals will name a new leader in the coming weeks, and the date for a new election will not be known until that process is complete. If the hard left New Democrats cooperate, a vote of no confidence may leave no choice but a snap election. Political wagers on the Polymarket give Pierre Poilievre a 93% chance of being Canada's next prime minister. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14254921/canada-prime-minister-justin-trudeau-announces-resignation.html https://www.rebelnews.com/_nothing_has_changed_poilievre_responds_after_trudeau_resigns_as_liberal_party_leader https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/canadas-king-of-woke-abdicates/ As Jonathan Turley has written, one of the challenges in the post-Trudeau era will be trying to restore free speech rights to the country after Trudeau has trampled them. https://thehill.com/opinion/international/5069094-with-trudeau-on-the-way-out-can-canadians-get-their-free-speech-back/ There has been a longstanding controversy over whether Justin Trudeau is really the son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau or of Fidel Castro. The argument that it was Pierre is based on his being married to Margaret Trudeau, Justin's mother. Here is the argument that it was Castro; https://medium.com/@leibowitt/of-course-fidel-castro-is-justin-trudeaus-dad-nobody-has-debunked-anything-4db6fc8a9042 Professional services firm EY Northern Ireland has chosen Ebrington Plaza in Derry for a new regional office, it said today. It follows an announcement by the firm at the Northern Ireland Investment Summit in September 2023 that it would create 1,000 new jobs here over the next five years. The business, which will make the move into Ebrington Plaza by June, said the office would play a crucial role in expanding its regional presence. It added that the location would also harness exceptional talent across the north west as well as growing client demand. The recruitment of new staff will also double the firms headcount in Northern Ireland, it said. EY said the north west was known for its diverse business landscape and would bring opportunities to work with leading indigenous and international businesses, entrepreneurs and public sector organisations, as well as access to world class talent from its educational institutions. The company supports organisations across a range of industries and sectors such as audit, corporate finance, tax and law, consulting, AI and data analytics. It currently employs more than 1,000 people in Northern Ireland and over 5,100 people on the island of Ireland, with offices in Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford. Rob Heron, EY Northern Ireland managing partner, said: We are really pleased to announce the selection of Ebrington Plaza as our new regional office in Derry. This move aligns with our strategy to grow the business and tap into the pool of world-class talent across the north west. We are delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with stakeholders in the region and become an integral part of this vibrant community. The selection of Ebrington Plaza is a significant milestone for EY in Northern Ireland. It reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in the region and supporting economic growth. EY has built an incredible business in Northern Ireland, proudly providing a superb service to a broad range of clients across the island of Ireland, the UK and our global network. Rob Heron, managing partner, EY Northern Ireland Frank OKeeffe, EY Ireland managing partner, said: An office in the north west has long been the missing link for EY on the island of Ireland, and we are really proud to confirm that we will be opening our office in the north west later this year. This will be EYs seventh location on the island of Ireland and we are really looking forward to being able to serve so many incredible clients, organisations and entrepreneurs in the region as we help to shape their futures with confidence. It will enable us to harness the world-class talent that is living and working right across the north west. We cant wait to get started. Last October, Alchemy Technology Services was announced as the first tenant of Ebrington Plaza. In 2021, technology giant Allstate abandoned early-stage plans to move to the site. Ebrington Plaza is also the location of the Ebrington Hotel, which opened in 2023. It's feared that the UK Home Office's new entry requirements will impede the flow of overseas visitors who arrive in the Republic but want to see sights on the north of the border, such as Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Around 210m in Northern Irelands tourism revenue is at risk as a result of new red tape applying from Wednesday, the head of Titanic Belfast has said. Its feared the new paperwork will impede the flow of international tourists into NI from the Republic, who until now have been able to travel north without separate requirements. And Economy Minister Conor Murphy said he was again urging the Home Office against implementing its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme here, citing a devastating impact on tourism. He said even an exemption for travel into NI for up to seven days would be a help, and cited a temporary UK-wide exemption for EU school groups as an example of how the rules can be amended. From January 8, non-European travellers must have an ETA costing 10 per person for entry into any part of the UK. It will be required for European travellers from April. Mr Murphy said he had held a meeting with Seema Malhotra MP, Home Office Minister for Migration and Citizenship, to outline his concerns. And he said there was now new evidence of the anticipated effects on tourism in NI. The Minister said: I have made it clear to Minister Malhotra that solutions to the ETA Scheme are needed to protect the norths tourism sector. "Ideally a complete exemption should be introduced for those crossing into the north but not travelling on to Britain. "At the very least a time-limited exemption for people visiting up to seven days would cover most of our international visitors. The existing exemption for French school groups shows that a solution is perfectly possible. A similar, pragmatic, and flexible approach could be taken by the Home Office to avoid damaging tourism growth in the north. According to DfE, Tourism Ireland Sentiment Research across international markets found the ETA requirements would mean that one in four people in Europe, and one in five people in North America say they would make the decision not to travel. The Minister added: Our all-island economy is vital, and seamless all-island travel is key to building on the growth we have seen in our tourism sector. "I share the strong concerns expressed by the tourism and travel industry here and will continue to press the British Government for a solution to this challenging issue. Judith Owens Judith Owens MBE, CEO of Titanic Belfast and chair of the NI Tourism Alliance (NITA), called the scheme a substantial threat to NIs tourism sector. "With approximately 70% of our international visitors entering via the Republic of Ireland and crossing the land border, the additional requirement of obtaining an ETA could deter many from including Northern Ireland in their travel plans. "This not only jeopardises an estimated 210m in annual revenue but also risks diminishing our global tourism appeal. "These visitors represent approximately 1% of total international visitors to the UK and we urgently call on the UK Government to agree to an exemption to mitigate these adverse impacts and safeguard the future of our tourism industry." The ETA scheme was introduced by the old Conservative government under the Nationality and Borders Act 2022, and applies whether travellers arrive into a UK port or ferry or via the border with the Republic. DfE said 67% of Northern Irelands overseas travellers arrive via the Republic. However, UK and Irish citizens, and permanent Irish residents, will not require an ETA. A Government spokesperson said: ETAs will deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year. We are committed to working closely with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the ETA requirement is communicated effectively and to mitigate against it being seen as a barrier to cross-border tourism on Ireland. Alliance Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood reiterated her call for the Government to introduce a tailored exemption to the scheme for tourism on the island of Ireland. Ms Eastwood has said: Seamless cross-border travel is vital to Northern Irelands tourism industry, with 70% of international visitors entering via the Republic of Ireland. As recognised by previous UK Immigration Ministers, the ETA scheme introduces unnecessary bureaucracy that could discourage visitors from coming here. "Tourism is already facing significant challenges, not least in the form of a planned hike in National Insurance contributions, and we cannot afford a policy that jeopardises 210m in annual revenue. The choice to proceed with unmitigated implementation of this is incredibly disappointing. Under the last UK Government, Alliance made vital progress in securing an exemption for non-visa third-country permanent residents in the Republic of Ireland. This was a recognition of the unique circumstances of the island, and now the government has the opportunity to build on that by offering a short-term ETA exemption for visitors to Northern Ireland, such as a five-to-seven-day window. This would allow us to remain competitive without undermining UK border security. Its a practical and proportionate solution the government must urgently consider. "All-island tourism is marketed internationally under the principles of the Good Friday Agreement, and as a co-guarantor of the Agreement, the UK Government has a duty to uphold its spirit by ensuring seamless cross-border travel. I will continue to push for a fair solution that protects our tourism sector and ensures Northern Ireland remains an attractive destination for international visitors. Former Bank of England governor Mark Carney is considering entering the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as Canadas prime minister (Yui Mok/PA) 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. BBC show co-contestant Blu Hydrangea describes the late performer as an absolute superstar a shining light A Belfast drag queen who shot to fame alongside The Vivienne on RuPauls Drag Race UK has described him as an absolute superstar following the 32-year-olds death. The case was taken by Belfast City Council against Mr James Elwood following a visit by council officers to Titanic Vapour at 264 Shankill Road in November 2023. Human metapneumovirus particles. Computer illustration of particles of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a respiratory virus that affects almost all children by the age of 5. The virus is a type of paramyxovirus, consisting of RNA (ribonucleic acid) genetic material enclosed in a protein coat, or capsid, within a phospholipid envelope. The envelope (pale) is covered in protein spikes. Cases of the respiratory virus known as HMPV - which has symptoms similar to those of the common cold, flu, and Covid-19 - have been surging in China, prompting fears that another global pandemic is on the way. Outbreaks of the human metapneumovirus have hit numerous regions of the country and, given that theres no vaccine, people in China are being urged to wear masks, while authorities are closely monitoring the rising case numbers. But what is the virus and what are its symptoms? Heres what you need to know. What is Human metapneumovirus? Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a commonly found virus that can cause respiratory illness. Although the virus typically has no symptoms in healthy adults, it can cause serious sickness in older adults, those with asthma, babies, and children according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Humans, however, continue to become infected throughout their lifetimes since the illness only produces a minimal or ineffective immune response Companies are developing vaccinations to protect against it. According to NAID, Moderna, the manufacturer of the Covid-19 vaccine, has just ended an early trial of an mRNA vaccine against HMPV and parainfluenza. According to respiratory virus surveillance systems run by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cases of HMPV increased this spring in America. In the States, the most vulnerable populations for these infections young children and the elderly were dominant in hospital intensive-care units. Nearly 11 per cent of those tested were HMPV positive at its peak in mid-March, a figure that is roughly 36 per cent higher than the typical, pre-pandemic seasonal peak of seven per cent test positivity. What are the symptoms? According to the American Lung Association, the majority of HMPV patients experience moderate upper respiratory symptoms resembling a cold. These may consist of a cough, congestion in the nose or runny nose, a sore throat, aches, and fever. A brief illness brought on by the virus typically lasts two to five days and resolves on its own. Patients may choose to treat their condition using over-the-counter medications, like a decongestant. However, in extreme circumstances, the virus might cause asthma attacks, wheezing, and breathing problems. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is encouraged to visit their doctor because they might require a stronger medication or a temporary inhaler. HMPV is transmitted by intimate contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces, just like other respiratory viruses. Some patients have seen the virus lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Have there been HMPV cases in the UK? There have though not quite on the scale of the breakouts in China. HMPV is one of the illnesses monitored through the governments weekly flu and Covid-19 reports. A report covering samples sent to laboratories in England found that, in the final week of 2024 between December 23 and 29 4.5 per cent of people had tested positive for HMPV, a slight increase on the previous week. To put this figure into context, 29.5 per cent of lab-tested swabs were positive for influenza, while 2.5 per cent were positive for Covid-19. Could there be a lockdown in China? China has upped its monitoring of HMPV but theres no signs the country will go into a Covid-style lockdown just yet. Its foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said last week: 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. For now, the country is continuing to log all cases. How was Human metapneumovirus discovered? The virus was identified by scientists in the Netherlands in 2001. Scientists took 28 samples from children in the Netherlands who had respiratory infections that were not explained. Even though several became critically unwell and needed mechanical ventilation, no known infections were found in their blood. The samples were cultivated in diverse cell types from dogs, chickens, and monkeys before being examined under an electron microscope. They observed something that appeared to share structural similarities with the paramyxoviridae family of viruses, which are known to cause respiratory illnesses like measles, mumps, and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. A detailed examination of the viruss genome revealed a close relative in the form of the bird-infecting avian metapneumovirus. The novel pathogen was given the name human metapneumovirus. It probably evolved from birds to humans at some point, according to scientists. Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt pictured today on his way to emergency meeting called to address winter hospital pressures. (PressEye) The Department of Health has said the flu vaccine uptake has been very disappointing as the Health Minister said the number of people in hospital with the illness is 3.6 times higher than last year. Mike Nesbitt, who is the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party was giving evidence at an emergency meeting of the health committee this afternoon which was held after the Department of Health was criticised by the Alliance Party and the DUP. It comes amid reports that at least two elderly patients have been in the emergency department (ED) at the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) in Belfast for over five days despite being deemed fit for discharge. Staff at the hospital have admitted the most vulnerable patients are being treated in an intolerable environment as reports surfaced of one person being cared for in an unused tearoom. Around 500 patients were unable to be discharged from hospitals across the region on Sunday night due to a lack of suitable care packages. SDLP health spokesperson Colin McGrath also said the Department of Healths plan for the winter months was too little, too late. Speaking during the committee meeting, the Public Health Agencys Dr Joanne McLean said vaccine update was very disappointing and revealed only 6.4% of care home workers have taken up the flu vaccine, while 18% of health and social care staff overall have taken it. Mr Nesbitt also confirmed the flu vaccination, which was previously only available on the NHS to those vulnerable or aged over 65, will now be available to those over 50 years old. The sore throat service, a community pharmacy roll out programme, which was due to end at the end of this month, will also be extended until March. We have done a lot to promote the vaccines, so its been disappointing, said Dr McLean. In terms of flu season, this is the worst we have seen since before Covid, so its significantly worse than last year. She also said she believed the peak of admissions for influenza had been reached. Luckily, we havent had much Covid around at the same time, but the flu peak hit just before Christmas. "It continues to be a worse flu season than last year, but we do think we have reached the peak of admissions and we expect as the weeks go on, the reduction will go down." Mr Nesbitt also noted vaccine hesitancy as a factor in drop in the number of people accepting the jab, but said the issue was not confined to Northern Ireland. He also said people are surrendering their decency and privacy" during long-wait times in hospitals across Northern Ireland, with the Health Minister recalling a visit to Altnagelvin Area Hospital where he witnessed a man sitting in a chair for almost four days. Emergency department pressures are not a symptom, not the cause, and that is not my view. It's the one of the Royal College of Nursing and Emergency Medicine - its a whole system challenge that we face. I am offering a blank page to look forward to the winter of 2025, and I ask the committee what part they want to play and if they want to be positive, because it appears to me certain MLAs only engage after the fact when the opportunity arises to criticise without alternatives. He said his Departments winter plan had been planned since spring 2024 and anticipated a difficult winter and would not eliminate the pressures but mitigate them. If anyone around this table has a quick or easy solution, I am afraid they are mistaken. EDs need staff, and without the staff everything else is meaningless. My focus was to avoid industrial action from staff. He also said the percentage of funding given to the Department of Health, is a red herring, and instead it is about accessed need. It is also about efficiency and productivity - but neither will close the gap between demand and necessity. When asked about the Acute Care at Home Service which is currently only offered by the Southern Trusts and Belfast Trusts by Sinn Fein MLA Liz Kimmins, and how to expand the service, Mr Nesbitt said it was the future. This is the future. It delivers better outcomes, and I am keen this year to discuss how we expand these services, he said. We have to look at the phone first service, around 160,000 people have used phone first in the first year, and a quarter of those phone calls have resulted in people going to an ED." The Health Minister also ruled out military assistance, after speculation members of the military would be called into Northern Ireland to assist with emergency department pressure. In terms of the military, because the problem is within the hospitals, I dont see a practical role for the military coming in - I think when they were here for Covid, they offered vaccines and physically moved people around hospitals, and thats not what we need, said Mr Nesbitt. DNA test to confirm identity amid speculation over further arrests A man from the Czech Republic has been arrested by Spanish police investigating the discovery of a body thought to be that of missing Belfast man John George. It comes as the family of Mr George await the results of formal identification through DNA tests. This afternoon, police in Northern Ireland said they are supporting the family and working closely with international law enforcement agencies Mr George vanished on December 14. After a search operation and appeals by his family, decomposing remains were found under trees on a private property in a rural area of Rojales on Spains Costa Blanca. The 32-year-old arrested, who has not been formally named, was reportedly being investigated by the Spanish Civil Guard, the police force which had been leading the hunt. A force spokesperson said: Yesterday morning the Civil Guard discovered the body of a man in Rojales. The Territorial Judicial Police team of Pilar de la Horadada has been put in charge of the ongoing investigation. All the necessary work is being done at the moment to determine the cause of death and confirm the mans identity. John George was reported missing in December Pending the full forensic results everything is pointing to it being a missing person whose family reported his disappearance on 21 December 2024. Following the discovery of the body, a 32-year-old man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of homicide. Further information will be provided as soon as more details become available. While formal identification is still to take place, it is understood that clothing and tattoos indicate the body is that of Mr George However, DNA testing will now take place to formally identify the 37-year-old father-of-twos remains. In a statement, the PSNI said its thoughts were with the George family and its family liaison officers were continuing to provide support to them. Detective Inspector Jennifer Rea said: My thoughts are, first and foremost, with Mr Georges family at this distressing time. Our dedicated Family Liaison Officers continue to provide support to the family, and we continue to work closely with international law enforcement agencies. I am keen to reiterate our appeal for anyone with information that could assist the Spanish Investigation Team with their enquiries to please contact us on 101, she added. Photos and footage, including CCTV, mobile phone or dash cam footage, can be shared with the Police Service through the Major Incident Public Portal at https://mipp.police.uk Information will be shared with Spanish Police. "Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, with total anonymity, on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Spanish police have up to 72 hours from the time of arrest to hold the suspect before handing him over to an investigating judge for further questioning, although in exceptional cases they can apply for an extension. That court appearance would take place behind-closed-doors at a court in Torrevieja, a 25-minute drive south of Rojales. The judge would have to decide whether to remand the detainee in custody or release him on bail. Kevin Winters from KRW Law, which is working with the family, told the BBC today he understood that "one arrest is not necessarily conclusive". In an earlier statement, they said the family hope their extremely tortuous search process is over. They said: We can confirm the father of Mr George contacted us today shortly after 5pm to confirm Spanish police told him they had recovered his sons remains. Mr Billy George was told that his sons body was now in a morgue awaiting formal identification. The family are both distressed but also relieved at this latest news. It brings to an end an extremely tortuous search process for the body. Billy George The family want to thank all who have helped and supported them over the last number of days. They now respectfully ask for some privacy to allow them both time and space to engage on the next harrowing stages on what is now a formalised murder investigation. Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey expressed condolences to Mr Georges family. This is tragic news for Johns loved ones who have been courageously searching for him after he went missing on December 14, he said today. I have been in contact with Billy George, Johns father, throughout this period and as recently as last night where he informed me that a body had been found. I now hope Johns body can be returned home to Ireland as quickly as possible to allow his heart-broken family and friends to have a dignified funeral. The disappearance of Mr George has dominated news headlines for more than a fortnight. Before travelling he had told people someone he knew was opening a business in Spain and he was going for the grand opening. But he vanished after last speaking to his father on December 14. Despite being booked on a flight home on December 18, he never boarded the plane. His family launched an online appeal for information, saying it was very out of character for him not to phone home. Soon, they began to fear the worst. His parents, Billy and Sharon, and sisters, Courtney and Caitlin, flew to Spain where they scoured the Alicante region in search of John. The K9 Search and Rescue NI (K9SRNI), a volunteer search and rescue team that uses specialist sniffer dogs, also travelled to Spain to help but returned at the weekend. The team surveyed an area the size of Tollymore Forest Park in over three days employing drones and search dogs to bolster the effort. K9 Search and Rescue NI searching for John George in Spain The PSNI said previously it had been liaising closely with the missing mans family and other law enforcement agencies. Shortly before news of the body being discovered emerged, Mr Georges brother insisted he would not be leaving Spain until he finds him and would even give his own life for his siblings return. Darren George joined the hunt on December 23 and has been in Alicante ever since. Finding my brother will drive me until I take my last breath, Darren told this newspaper yesterday, before the body find. I would give my own life up to find John. I would give my life up for my mum and dad to lay their son at rest. He added: Every day is a living nightmare. Youre out searching all day and come home with no body found. [Its like] everywhere you look its the same field, the same hill. Spanish police believe the father-of-two was shot dead not long after losing contact with his family. Interpol had become involved with the investigation, which Johns brother Darren hoped would escalate the case and find answers they were desperately hoping for. John and his brother Darren It had previously been reported that the main suspect had told friends they were also planning to fly to Thailand. With Interpol getting involved its been escalated in the sense that there will be answers, Darren said. There are rumours that the main suspect is in Thailand. I dont believe that. I do believe he is in Spain. He added that false information appearing online had been misdirecting the familys search efforts. On Monday, the Belfast Telegraph revealed a conversation in which a suspect linked to Mr Georges disappearance told the family that he had been taken in the direction of the Torrevieja area. The suspect claimed he left the apartment unharmed on December 14 with another person, but didnt make it to Benidorm. Darren had vowed not to leave Spain until the family located the body, despite the Spanish police urging them to put their efforts on hold. He said: Once we get Johns body we are out of Spain and well never return to Spain. John George News Catch Up - Wednesday 8 January Shooting not thought to be terror-related. Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) A man who was shot in Newtownabbey was an off-duty police officer. The incident took place in the Beverley Road area of Newtownabbey, where cordons were in place as police attended the scene on Monday night. The officer is currently receiving treatment for what the PSNI called treatment for non-life-threatening injuries in hospital. Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) A 29-year old man has been arrested and remains in police custody. A police spokesperson said the incident is not being treated as terrorism related. Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said I can confirm that the injured man was an off duty police officer, who was taken to hospital and is currently receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. My thoughts are with him, his family and we will offer every support to them while he recovers. While our investigation is at an early stage, we do not believe this is a terrorism related incident. A 29-year-old man was arrested at the scene and he remains in police custody at this time. We will continue to liaise with other key stakeholders, including the Police Federation. As our investigation progresses I would appeal to anyone with any information, who was in the area around the time of the shooting, or with doorbell or dashcam footage, to contact Police on 101 and quote reference 1699 06/01/25. You can also report online here: https://www.psni.police.uk/report or in confidence through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) DUP MLA Pam Cameron urged anyone with information relating to the shooting to come forward. The South Antrim MLA said: I am shocked by the events overnight in a residential area in close proximity to my constituency office. It is important for all of us not to jump to conclusions as this is a live investigation and to allow the PSNI to do their work. Im grateful for swift response from PSNI and I have asked to be kept updated around this serious incident. I understand that the victim is in a stable condition in hospital. I would urge anyone with relevant information to contact the Police directly or via Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Watch: Titanic Belfast view now covered by 175m apartment blocks Pall bearers carry the coffin of Ted Howell as it passes though west Belfast after a funeral service. Liam McBurney/PA Wire Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams is one of the pall bearers as he carries the coffin of Ted Howell as it passes though west Belfast after a funeral service. Liam McBurney/PA Wire Funeral has taken place of veteran republican Ted Howell in west Belfast. Mr Howell was a close ally and confidant of former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams. Hundreds of mourners have gathered in west Belfast at his late residence in the Suffolk area where a service is taking place this morning. Senior republican Ted Howell was hailed as a "patriot" by Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald during his funeral in west Belfast. Mr Howell, who died last week, was a close ally and friend of Gerry Adams. A backroom figure during the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement negotiations, he was also Sinn Feins ex-director of foreign affairs. The 78-year-old passed away peacefully at his home on January 3. Hundreds of mourners gathered for his funeral, with a service held in his late residence in the Lenadoon area of west Belfast. The home service was conducted by Father Gary Donegan, and broadcast from the house to those gathered outside in falling snow before the procession to Milltown Cemetery, where Mr Howell was laid to rest alongside his wife. First Minister Michelle ONeill, Ms McDonald and Mr Adams helped to carry the coffin. Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams attending the funeral of Ted Howell. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Speaking at Milltown, Ms McDonald said tributes have been paid to Mr Howell from people across the world. "Ted Howell was a patriot, a family man, a proud Belfast man, a united Irelander, an internationalist and it is no surprise that we have travelled from the four corners of Ireland but also from Canada, from the US, from Britain, from the Basque country and that messages have poured in to Ted's family and friends from all four corners of the globe to recognise this extraordinary man," she said. "Ted Howell was a significant figure in the Irish struggle for freedom from his earliest days and he remained a true and faithful servant of our struggle until his very very last." Mr Adams, described as a lifelong friend of Mr Howell, recalled sharing a bunk bed while they were both interned at Long Kesh prison camp in the 1970s. "All of us will have stories of Ted - his family members, his lifelong friends, his neighbours, his comrades, his local butcher, his drinking companions, former prisoners, people from the Felon's Club or the Horseshoe bar, Gaza or the Basque country, Long Kesh or London or the USA, Canada or South Africa," he said. "Stories about his humour, his generosity, his loyalty, his lifelong commitment to republicanism and those of us who worked with him for decades value his friendship and his mischief making, his craic and his insights into the human condition. Ted's life was full and he loved life, and no oration can do justice to him." Ted Howell (right) with Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness Mr Adams recalled Mr Howell living in Canada for just a couple of months, and returning to Belfast amid the civil rights campaign and saw a "warzone" develop following the events including the battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday in Londonderry and the introduction of internment. "Ted took part in protest marches then he joined the Irish Republican Army," he said. "In March 1972 he was arrested, he was interned, first on the prison ship Maidstone and then in Long Kesh camp." Mr Adams described the 1980s as being a "significant decade of change for Sinn Fein ... building a peace strategy", talks with then SDLP leader John Hume and moving into the 1990s when multi party talks resulted in the signing of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in 1998. "Ted was at the heart of it all," he said. "Ted had great politics .... he understood strategy and the need for the national question to be constantly at the centre of Sinn Fein's strategy and of all our work. He was a member of the party's uniting Ireland committee up until his death. "He was also deeply involved in Sinn Fein's international outreach, he sought help for the Irish cause but also provided help to other liberation struggles and peace processes. "Ted was one of us, he was the best of us." Pall bearers carry the coffin of Ted Howell as it passes though west Belfast after a funeral service. Liam McBurney/PA Wire During Mr Adams time as party president, one Sinn Fein employee described Mr Howell as the real leader of Sinn Fein, while a senior republican described him to The Irish Times as the backroom backroom man. His role came under scrutiny after it emerged Sinn Fein finance minister Mairtin O Muilleoir sent an email in 2017, days before Mr approved cost-cutting measures to the controversial Renewable Heat Incentive, asking if Mr Howell would be content for him to sign off on his recommendations. Mr O Muilleoir denied the email was seeking Mr Howells permission, saying it was a courtesy to keep him informed. But it fuelled criticism that Sinn Fein was ultimately controlled by figures outside the public eye. A funeral notice said Mr Howell passed away peacefully at home and was the dearly beloved husband of the late Eileen and loving father to Proinnsias and Eamonn. Much loved father-in-law to Karen and Nora, added the death notice. Devoted granda to Miceal, Caoimhe and Amelia. Cherished brother to Anne, Margaret and the late Jim and Kathleen. Ted will be loved and missed always by his heartbroken sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sisters and entire family circle, read his death notice. Commission set up under controversial Act sets out second annual work plan ICRIR chief commissioner Sir Declan Morgan said the needs of victims and survivors are key to how the body operates (ICRIR/PA) A protest at Belfast High Court on September 20, 2024 against the Legacy Act (Pacemaker) Some 120 people have sought investigations from the new body set up by the Government to probe unsolved cases from the Troubles. The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR) which is currently looking into 24 cases has published its second annual work plan, setting out its aims and ambitions for 2025-26. The body was set up under the Tories controversial Legacy Act, which was opposed by all the parties here and the Irish Government. Dublin launched legal action against the Act under the European Convention on Human Rights. The Act ended new Troubles-era cases and inquests as of May 1 last year. Instead, bereaved families, victims and certain public authorities can request the ICRIR to carry out an investigation. The new Labour Government had long committed to repealing the bulk of the legislation, including getting rid of a controversial conditional amnesty and allowing inquests to restart, but said it will retain the ICRIR. The chief executive of the ICRIR, Louise Warde Hunter, said the new year marks the next important chapter of the commissions work with the first of its reports likely to be published in the autumn. As of December 9, the commission said that 120 people had come forward and requested an investigation in the hope of finding the answers they have been seeking for so many years. Of those, 24 have reportedly moved into the information recovery stage of the process. In addition, the commission said it has accepted a request for an investigation from the Secretary of State. We are committed to getting the unvarnished truth for victims, survivors and families. That remains our unwavering focus for this year and beyond. Ms Warde Hunter said. We are pursuing our investigations and will be publishing our first findings reports in the autumn. We know that answers, often long sought, cannot be rushed. We will continue to demonstrate care and diligence in how we deliver for those who have come to the commission. The commission insists it operates independently of the Stormont Executive, UK Government and any other body or outside interest. Established in December 2023, it aims to provide information to families, victims and survivors of Troubles-related deaths and injuries and promote reconciliation. The ICRIR determines what type of investigation is appropriate or necessary in different circumstances. It could be a liability investigation that may lead to a criminal prosecution where judged appropriate, or a focused probe, or a culpability investigation. Its chief commissioner is former Lord Chief Justice Sir Declan Morgan, while its commissioner for investigations is Peter Sheridan, a former senior PSNI officer. ICRIR chief commissioner Sir Declan Morgan said the needs of victims and survivors are key to how the body operates (ICRIR/PA) In September, the Court of Appeal ruled that the new truth recovery body is currently not capable of carrying out human rights-compliant investigations into Troubles-era murders in Northern Ireland, but only in cases where that body is replacing the function of an inquest. Senior judges held that in such cases the ICRIR cannot ensure effective participation for next of kin. Government powers to veto the disclosure of sensitive material were also declared to be unlawful. A spokesperson for the UK Government said then that it is committed to addressing the legacy of the past in a way that can obtain the support of victims and survivors, and comply with our human rights obligations. A statement concluded: "We note the courts ruling and will take the necessary time to consider our next steps on this complex judgment." Speaking after the publication of the ICRIRs second annual work plan, Sir Declan said: We have designed our TRIM (Trauma and Resiliency Informed Model) approach to address the needs of people as we work with them through this process. Their needs are uppermost in our minds as we take the work of the commission forward into next year. We value open, honest and respectful dialogue with victims, survivors and families and wider stakeholders. Reconciliation can only be achieved in our community if we tell the unvarnished truth about what happened during the Troubles/Conflict. A rotating Taoiseach arrangement will be part of the next government, Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has insisted (Niall Carson/PA) A rotating Taoiseach arrangement will be part of the next government, Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has insisted. Mr Harris also said it is possible there will be a government by January 22, adding that formation talks have been going really well. The outcome of the 2020 election saw Fianna Fail and Fine Gael enter a coalition on the basis that the holder of the Irish premier position would be exchanged midway through the term. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin took the role for the first half of the mandate, with Leo Varadkar taking over in December 2022. Mr Harris succeeded Mr Varadkar as Taoiseach when he resigned from the role last year. In the November 2024 election, Fianna Fail secured 10 more seats than Fine Gael. Asked if Fine Gael would enter into Government without a return to the rotating Taoiseach arrangement, Mr Harris said: There will be a rotating Taoiseach in the next government and I think thats been very clear probably since the day or two after the election. Mr Harris said the arrangement had worked well in the previous government. Speaking on Tuesday, he added: I believe many hundreds of thousands of people in this country have voted for Fine Gael and Fianna Fail to provide stable government for the next five years, and for myself and Micheal Martin to lead that government. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and ex-Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar agreed to a rotating Taoiseach arrangement in 2020 (Niall Carson/PA) Since the November 29 election, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have been holding intensive talks with each other as well as other parties and independents on forming a government. The Dail is due to return on January 22. The Taoiseach said forming a government before then would be a little bit tight but added: People can work hard, work later, work longer were doing that, and work through the weekend. The Fine Gael leader said forming a government within eight weeks of the election is not an extraordinary length of time when the Christmas break is taken into consideration. Certain key areas of the programme of government are understood to have been largely agreed between the two parties, although talks on disability, justice and climate continue. Mr Harris said he is in regular contact with Mr Martin, sometimes engaging several times a day. Micheal Martins Fianna Fail emerged as the largest party after the election (Brian Lawless/PA) He said there are three pillars of work for the talks policy, government structure, and ratification among party members. Mr Harris said intensive work between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail negotiators is continuing, identifying areas of agreement and disagreement on policy. He added that the talks on government structure are not about personnel but rather how it is set up to tackle priority areas. Lets take disability as an example, where both parties to the talks and I think the people of Ireland have said they want, expect and need better in this area. How do you structure government departments to deliver that? He also identified co-ordination on migration and energy as other areas for restructuring. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are just shy of forming a majority by themselves and are expected to rely on independents to make up the numbers. Independent TD Michael Lowrys behaviour was previously criticised by a tribunal as profoundly corrupt (Brian Lawless/PA) The Regional Independents Group has put forward eight TDs who are willing to negotiate as a group. They include former Fine Gael TD Michael Lowry, whose behaviour was previously criticised by a tribunal as profoundly corrupt. The Moriarty Tribunal was set up in 1997 to examine payments made to former taoiseach Charles Haughey and Mr Lowry. Asked if he had any hesitation about including Mr Lowry in a future government, Mr Harris said he fully accepted the findings of the tribunal. However, he added: I also know the practicality of how the Dail works, and that when people get elected to Dail Eireann, they can choose to support or not support governments thats the way our parliamentary democracy works, and the deputy has been elected. But my issue here isnt about individuals, its about recognising that there are a number of independent cities who have come together in a grouping called the regional independents. They have indicated that they wish to try and support a government, and were happy to engage with them on that basis. Mr Harris also described talks with the Social Democrats as good and said his party will be meeting the Independent Ireland party in the coming weeks. He added: But look, the reality is were in the landing zone of being able to deliver a new government, definitely in the month of January. The Social Democrats announced on Tuesday that, despite constructive talks, major policy differences exist between the party and Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. The party stopped short of ruling out further engagement but said: It is also clear that the direction of travel, in government formation talks, is very firmly towards a deal with Independent TDs. Ireland has upgraded its weather warning amid an extremely cold snap across the island. Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as minus 8C while a Status Orange low temperature and ice warning was announced for almost all of the Republic of Ireland. Irish national weather agency Met Eireann said the advisory applies between 8pm on Tuesday and 10am on Wednesday, applying nationwide except for Donegal, Dublin, Louth and Wexford. Weather warnings are continuing into Wednesday in some areas (Niall Carson/PA) This will be followed by a further warning for every county except for Donegal between 6pm Wednesday and 11am Thursday. It means that there will be extremely cold nights with widespread frost, ice and lying snow. The measure comes on top of a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning, applying to the entire country until 6am on Friday. 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 Electricity Supply Board said 10,000 of its customers were without power by 7am on Tuesday while thousands were without access to water. Temperatures are expected to struggle to get above freezing during the day with transport disruption and hazardous travelling conditions. A separate Yellow level warning for snow and ice for the entire country was due to expire at noon on Tuesday. 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 Tuesday is set to have the highest temperatures of zero to 5C. Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock said it will be bitterly cold overnight into Wednesday, adding that a few wintry showers will affect parts of the north and west. The lowest temperatures are expected to be minus 8C to minus 3C generally, although it could dip even lower in some regions, with a severe frost and icy stretches. A man clears snow from the pathway in the village of Ballylynan in County Laois (Niall Carson/PA) The agency is also warning of the risk of freezing fog developing over the coming days. Temperatures are predicted to increase through Thursday night and Friday as rain, sleet and snow moves north-eastwards over the country, becoming milder for the weekend. The cold snap had seen tens of thousands of people without water and electricity, with crews continue to work to restore access to the services for the remaining affected homes and businesses on Tuesday. The severe weather also prompted the Health Service Executive to cancel non-urgent appointments in the south-west of the country. The Irish Defence Forces were deployed on Monday to assist with transporting patients and essential healthcare workers amid hazardous conditions. Some public transport services have been curtailed and cancelled while schools in the worst-affected parts of the country also took the decision to close, with the situation being assessed on a morning-by-morning basis. A Status Yellow snow and ice warning was put in place for Northern Ireland by the UK Met Office, expiring at 11am on Tuesday, and followed shortly after by a similar warning for between 3pm until midday on Wednesday. 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. Steve Jamieson is the chief executive of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT/PA) The chief executive of the UKs speech and language therapists professional body has apologised after following Tommy Robinson on X. The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) boss Steve Jamieson said he was deeply sorry for the hurt, upset, distress, fear and anger that this caused members, colleagues and staff after it was revealed he was following the jailed political activist, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, in August 2024. It comes after calls were made for Mr Jamieson to resign and apologise in an open letter written by members of the RCSLT. The matter came to light around the time of the Southport riots, when nationwide disorder broke out after three girls were killed in a knife attack at a dance class. The RCSLTs board of trustees ordered a formal investigation, including appointing a barrister, which found Mr Jamiesons personal account was following Robinson on X, and on the balance of probabilities it was deemed that this was an accidental follow, of which Mr Jamieson was unaware. The bodys boss was unaware he was following Tommy Robinson (Yui Mok/PA) It also found the RCSLTs response to the incident was slower than it should have been, both in initiating an investigation and communicating with members, staff, and the public. A sub-committee was established to carry out the investigation after members and stakeholders expressed their concerns in an open letter, the RCSLT added. In a statement posted on the RCSLTs website, Mr Jamieson said: Dear members and colleagues, In August of this year (2024), I was alerted to the fact that my personal X (formerly Twitter) account was following Tommy Robinson. I am deeply sorry for the hurt, upset, distress, fear and anger that this caused members, colleagues and staff. For members to see this, at a time of racial hatred and riots, must have been deeply shocking. I was not aware of the follow and it certainly was not something I had done intentionally. Nevertheless, my response did not reflect the impact on others and only reflected on my own shock and concern on how this had occurred and my assumption that my account was hacked. My own personal concern prevailed and my response as the CEO of RCSLT lacked compassion and empathy for our members, staff and other RCSLT stakeholders. Whilst I cannot turn back the clock, I have learnt from this and want members, staff and other RCSLT stakeholders to know that I recognise I have let you down and I am truly sorry. Robinson was sentenced to 18 months in prison in October after the Solicitor General took legal action against him for breaching a High Court injunction made in 2021. He admitted 10 breaches of the order, which barred him from repeating libellous allegations against a Syrian refugee. The investigation into Mr Jamieson also found that the RCSLT should have immediately initiated and followed our member complaints procedure following receipt of the Anti-Racism Action Collectives letter. And the bodys responses to the incident lacked objectivity, empathy, and compassion, and failed to align with the values of the organisation, the probe found. The findings were accepted by the bodys board which made a number of recommendations including that Mr Jamieson should apologise and that the RCSLT should issue a statement to members setting out the investigation process, with a summary of the investigators findings and how the RCSLT will learn from them. The RCSLT statement said: As your professional body, we deeply regret that we failed to meet the high standards you expect from us, and we acknowledge the distress and damage this has caused. Our aim is to create an inclusive and fair speech and language therapy community where everyone feels valued and respected. However, we want to acknowledge that in this situation we let members down and behaved in a way for which we are truly sorry. We are genuinely committed to ensuring that the insights and recommendations from both the investigation and your collective feedback will drive meaningful and lasting change, so that we as an organisation can serve, support, and represent all our members. The man accused of gunning down UnitedHealthcares chief executive outside a New York City hotel is unlikely to appear in Manhattan federal court again before mid-February after prosecutors and lawyers on Monday requested more time to prepare the case for trial. The lawyers agreed in a letter to the court that the deadline to bring an indictment against Luigi Mangione can be extended from January 18 to February 17. Mangione, 26, is now charged in a criminal complaint, a document that is lodged against individuals before the return of an indictment. Prosecutors said they consulted with the defence and agreed that extending the deadline was necessary to permit both parties adequate preparation for pretrial proceedings and the trial itself. Luigi Mangione appears in Manhattan Criminal court for his arraignment on state murder and terror charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson (Curtis Means/Pool via AP) Lawyers for Mangione and federal prosecutors declined to comment. The case is unusual because at least one charge carries the possibility of the death penalty, but whether to pursue that penalty must be made by the Justice Department in Washington, where top officials will be changed as President-elect Donald Trump takes office later this month. Authorities say Mangione fatally shot Brian Thompson on December 4 as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. The killing shocked the business community and galvanised some health insurance critics. Mangione posted frequently online about his struggles with back pain, though he was never a UnitedHealthcare client. Luigi Mangione, a suspect in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare boss Brian Thompson, is escorted by police. (AP/Pamela Smith) Federal charges against Mangione include murder and firearms counts. He made an initial appearance on the charges late last month. He will not be required to enter a plea until an indictment is returned. Mangione has pleaded not guilty in a New York state court to multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. His next appearance in state court is scheduled for February 21. The maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Mangione was arrested on December 9 in a Pennsylvania McDonalds following a five-day search. He is being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean Diddy Combs and cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. The eldest son of US President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Greenland for a private visit that has heightened speculation that the incoming US administration could seek to take control of the Danish territory. The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jrs plane landed in Nuuk, the capital of the vast and icy territory that has some 57,000 residents. In a statement, Greenlands government said Mr Trump Jrs visit would take place as a private individual and not as an official visit and that Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland foreign affairs department, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Mr Trump Jr would stay for about four to five hours. There have been no requests from his delegation for official meetings with government representatives. The government of Greenland has also not requested meeting with the delegation, he said. The visit nonetheless has strong political overtones. It comes after President-elect Donald Trump recently voiced a desire which he also expressed in during his first presidency to acquire the vast Artic territory. Greenland is an autonomous territory that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. A view of the Danish fleets frigate Triton, off the village of Attu in Greenland (Ritzau Scanpix/AP) It also comes as Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has been calling for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Mr Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the US, insisting that the island is not for sale. Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting his kingdoms rights to both Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Last month, the king changed Denmarks coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by an upright sitting silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. People walk in the town of Aasiaat in western Greenland (Ida Marie Odgaard/AP) We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, Frederik said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. Mr Trump Jr is in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorised to speak publicly. The president-elect posted on his social media site on Monday night, referring to his Make America Great Again movement: 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. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, Mr Trump wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Mr Trump has had designs on Greenland before. Donald Trump Jnr speaks at a campaign rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan (Evan Vucci/AP) In a statement last month as he announced his pick for US 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. Mr 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. During his first term, Mr Trump mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He even cancelled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet and is home to a large US military base. Vice President Kamala Harris talks to reporters after presiding over a joint session of congress to confirm the Electoral College votes at the Capitol, (AP/Jose Luis Magana) Kamala Harris has overseen a calm ceremonial certification of her defeat to Donald Trump in the US presidential election. The vice president kept her remarks perfunctory and stood with her hands clasped in front while the results from each state were read out in the US Capitol. After less than a half hour, she formally announced that Mr Trump had won the election and smiled tightly as Republicans applauded. The chair declares this joint session dissolved, Ms Harris said. Thank you. Kamala Harris, left, joined at the top by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, finishes her role at a joint session of Congress to certify the votes from the Electoral College (J Scott Applewhite/AP) The process was vastly different to four years ago when Mr Trumps supporters rioted at the US Capitol as lawmakers were certifying his defeat to Joe Biden. This time, everyone honoured the results of the election. Its a peaceful transfer of power, Ms Harris told reporters as she left the building on Monday. Its a good day. But the proceedings were still a bitter task for Ms Harris. Instead of ascending to the White House as the countrys first female president, she oversaw the constitutional machinery that will return Mr Trump to power. By doing so, Ms Harris joined a short list of predecessors who played the same role as vice president, who presides over the Senate. Richard Nixon did it after losing to John F Kennedy in 1960. Al Gore followed suit when the US 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, Mr Trump directed his supporters to march on the US Capitol on January 6 2021. The rioters attacked police officers, breached the buildings security and sent lawmakers running to safety. Ms 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 January 6 attack to warn voters of the danger of returning Mr Trump to the White House. She described him as a petty tyrant and wannabe dictator. House Speaker Mike Johnson watches after a joint session of Congress confirmed the Electoral College votes, affirming President-elect Donald Trumps victory in the presidential election (Matt Rourke/AP) After Ms Harris lost the election, she promised in her concession speech to honour 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 Trumps 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. Ms Leavitt did not respond to a question about Mr Trumps attempt to use the certification process to overturn his defeat four years ago. At that time, Mr Trump encouraged his vice president, Mike Pence, to disqualify votes from battleground states based on false allegations of fraud. Mr Pence refused. Mr Trumps 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. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest (Rick Scuteri/AP) 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, Mr 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. Mr Trump faced criminal charges for trying to stay in power despite losing. However, special counsel Jack Smith dropped the federal case against him after Mr Trump defeated Ms Harris since long-standing Justice Department policy says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. A separate case in Georgia over Mr Trumps attempts to subvert the 2020 election is mired in controversy over the Fulton County district attorneys 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 Mr Gore and Mr Bush ended up in the courtroom as the campaigns argued over whether Florida should conduct a recount. An upcoming trip to Kyiv by US President-elect Donald Trumps special envoy for Ukraine and Russia has been cancelled but will be rescheduled, Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha has said. The planned meetings between Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general who has long been Mr Trumps top adviser on defence issues, and Ukrainian officials are extremely important, Mr Sybiha told reporters in the Ukrainian capital. I am confident that this meeting will take place in its own time, he said during a news conference with his visiting Icelandic counterpart. Icelands foreign minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, left, and Ukraines Foreign Minister Andriiy Sybiha in Kyiv, Ukraine (Efrem Lukatsky/AP) We are in contact to clearly define the timeline for its organisation and to ensure that the meeting is as meaningful as possible. Mr Trumps arrival in the White House on January 20 injects another measure of uncertainty into how the almost three-year-old war might unfold and whether it can end in the foreseeable future. Ukraine, up against a larger enemy, Russia, relies on Western and especially US military backing to keep fighting. But Mr Trump has criticised the billions of dollars the Biden administration has spent on Ukraine. He has also said he could end the war in 24 hours, though he has not elaborated on how he might do that. Ukrainian officials are eager to sway Mr Trump on sticking with Ukraine. Servicemen have a short rest in a shelter on the front line near Chasiv Yar town in Ukraines Donetsk region (Ukraine 24th Mechanised Brigade via AP) President Volodymyr Zelensky has praised Mr Trumps strength and said the American presidents unpredictability could work in Ukraines favour. Ukrainians have expressed hope tinged with pragmatism about Mr Trumps election victory last November. The war is draining the resources of both sides, though military analysts say the conflict is less sustainable for smaller Ukraine, and the wars recent trajectory has not been in its favour. Its undermanned army is under strain on the front line, especially in eastern areas, though Ukrainian officials say its five-month-long incursion into Russias Kursk border region shows that Russia is vulnerable. As we enter a new year, we ask experts across Northern Ireland from arts to energy about what 2025 could mean for their sector. Richard Murphy, energy partner, Pinsent Masons Richard Murphy, energy partner, Pinsent Masons A two-speed market has emerged across the island of Ireland for renewables in recent times. Although we have seen some bright spots in Northern Ireland, such as Almacs recent corporate power purchase agreement with the newly constructed Murley wind farm in Co Tyrone, the recent trend for renewables has largely been go in Ireland and no go in Northern Ireland, so we need to catch up, and quickly, to deliver on our 2030 targets. We have a target of 80% of our electricity generation from renewables by 2030 and new carbon budgets set by Stormont. We are currently just over halfway towards the 80% target. Thankfully, the Department for the Economy has been working on a new support scheme for renewables in Northern Ireland and this year should see that design work completed and the launch of the scheme for an auction in early 2026. Gail Goldie, CEO, Bank of Ireland UK Gail Goldie, chief executive, Bank of Ireland UK Sustainability and innovation are key pillars to the future of financial services. At Bank of Ireland, we are focused on sustainable growth and providing the products and services our customers need to meet their financial ambitions and accelerate their sustainability journeys. The continued adoption and evolution of digital banking requires innovation and investment as we expand and further enhance customers options on how, when and where they want to bank with us. This investment in technology and innovation complements more traditional channels where our branch and contact centre colleagues are available to customers when they need us most. Just as we will see further growth in digital payments and transactions, the threat of scams and financial crime remains ever present. Banks will continue to play our part and invest in fraud detection, prevention and education to help protect consumers and businesses. We will also work closely with the government, as well as online and social media companies, to collectively prevent and eradicate fraud at its source. Fiona McStay, chief operating officer, People Hawk Fiona McStay, chief operating officer, PeopleHawk By 2025, technology will be central to career success, with AI-powered platforms revolutionising how individuals navigate the world of work. In Northern Ireland, the demand for digitally skilled workers is increasing, particularly in areas such as data science, AI ethics and green technologies. Employers are placing greater emphasis on not only technical expertise, but also adaptability and problem-solving abilities. AI tools are transforming career development by identifying skills gaps and offering personalised pathways to accelerate employability. Platforms that equip young people and career changers with these capabilities are bridging the divide between education and the needs of industry. They enable individuals to build sought-after skills, develop resilience, and access opportunities more rapidly than ever before. For Northern Irelands workforce, embracing these innovations will be key to remaining competitive on a global scale. With tailored solutions and AI unlocking potential, 2025 promises a digitally skilled, inclusive and agile workforce ready to thrive. Lucy Dougan, marketing manager, Belfast Exposed Lucy Dougan, marketing manager, Belfast Exposed In 2025, the arts sector must showcase its passion, innovation and collaboration, demonstrating its transformative impact on communities. This year will be a pivotal one for Belfast Exposed, Northern Irelands leading photography centre. At our core is a commitment to community and using photography to amplify unheard voices. Despite significant funding challenges for the arts in NI, research shows that every 1 invested in Belfast Exposed delivers 4.83 in social value. In the coming year we aim to welcome those who may not have felt comfortable engaging with the visual arts, demystifying the experience of exhibitions, galleries and workshops. A key focus will be cause-oriented art, sparking dialogue and exploring creative solutions around critical social, political and environmental issues. An example of this is our work in addressing NIs mental health crisis via ground-breaking exhibitions and therapeutic programmes delivered through community groups and healthcare trusts. Brian Morrison, owner, Brian Morrison Photography Brian Morrison, owner, Brian Morrison Photography As we move into 2025, the demand for powerful visual content is greater than ever. Strong, compelling imagery grabs attention, generates likes, reposts and shares, making visually impactful content a critical tool for businesses aiming to cut through the noise. Commercial clients increasingly want their content to feel real and human, likely as a reaction to the surge in AI-generated imagery. While artificial intelligence offers useful tools, its application needs to be subtle. Consumers, equipped with apps and filters of their own, are highly attuned to spotting images that feel artificial or overly manipulated. Drone imagery has become increasingly popular, particularly in the construction and tourism sectors. Last year, clients were requesting both footage and stills, combining formats to enhance their campaigns and this will continue and grow in 2025. Diane Poole OBE, head of commercial, Travel Solutions Sixty-eight percent of the UK population are planning to travel abroad over the next 12 months. And research also shows the importance of the experiences customers have on their break. We are all looking forward to our next breakaway, whether it is a short break, long-haul, sun, cruise, ski or escorted tours. There are so many options to whet everyones appetite. January is traditionally one of the busiest booking periods of the year, and exhibitions like Holiday World Belfast offer a great platform to receive expert advice on your next dream destination. Top European destinations include Majorca, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece. Long-haul, meanwhile, features New York, Nashville, Las Vegas, Tokyo and Thailand. Winter-experience city breaks Christmas markets, Northern Lights are showing a 3% increase, whilst search engines revealed a 300% increase for colder holidays in 2024 compared to 2023. Emma Little-Pengelly: People do comment on how you look Ive had to grow a thick skin The DUP politician on toxic online culture, the challenges facing women in the public eye, and why she always wanted to be a barrister Emma chats to Lynda Bryans Ivan Little Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 11:00 Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has hit back at social media trolls who target her and other female politicians for toxic attacks. 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. Accra, Ghana (PANA) - President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday began his second term with an address calling on his countrymen and women to partner with his administration to build a better future for the people BENNINGTON In a stunning turn of events, States Attorney for Bennington County Erica Marthage dismissed without prejudice the case against an accused murderer the day before the scheduled jury pick after legal maneuverings by Feds, defense attorneys, and a federal judge forced her hand. The murder case against Deven Moffitt has been making its way through the legal system since 2022 when Moffitt was officially charged in the 2019 murder of then-girlfriend Jessica Hildenbrandt, whose remains were believed to be found in a gravel pit in Searsburg by a passerby who noticed a jawbone on the ground. Moffitt was scheduled for a 10-day jury trial over three weeks starting later this week, but several factors came into play over the last week, spanning motions and decisions by the federal system here in Vermont that put that case in serious jeopardy. Two separate issues led to the dismissal. To understand what happened, we need to look closely at both issues and how they have played into each other to allow Moffitt to work the system for his benefit. The first issue involved an unforeseen error on the part of the state, including local prosecutors and the state Medical Examiner. It was revealed at a pre-trial hearing last Thursday that the alleged remains found at the gravel pit in Searsburg were never officially certified by the medical examiners office as those of Hildenbrandt. The DNA in the remains was never matched directly to Hildenbrandt or anyone in her immediate family, leaving a hole in the state case. If the remains might not be Hildenbrandt, there might be nobody in the case, dealing a severe blow to the states evidence. When this error was discovered, State Prosecutor Jared Bianchi ordered a VSP detective down to Florida to gather DNA evidence from her family to confirm the remains. Unfortunately, those tests take two weeks to complete, leaving the state with no confirmed remains as they head into the trial later this week. Bianchi immediately filed a motion for a delay in the trial, which was vigorously opposed by defense attorney Robert Sussman, who argued that it would be highly prejudicial to Moffitt to allow the new DNA testing to be entered into evidence on such short notice. That motion to delay the trial was denied on Friday by Bennington Judge Kerry McDonald-Cady on the grounds that the error of not realizing that important DNA testing had not been conducted is not reasonable grounds for a delay. The necessity to confirm that the remains were, in fact, Ms. Hildenbrandts through additional DNA genetic testing of a living relative of hers was known, said Judge McDonald-Cady in her written decision. Additionally, the absence of a laboratory test showing this within the states possession, which would have been disclosed to the defense, would have also placed the state on notice of this issue long before December 31st, 2024. Ultimately, the court finds that there has been sufficient time for the state to conduct any DNA testing and to be ready for trial in January 2025. It is not in the interest of justice to delay this case further. That led to the second issue, which ties directly to the first. The second issue involves Moffitts federal court status. Moffitt was convicted in a federal courthouse in May on gun and drug charges and has been in federal custody since 2022. There has not been any set date on sentencing by the feds so far in that case. Since Moffitt is in federal custody, permission was needed to lend Moffitt to the State of Vermont to face separate charges in Hildenbrandts murder case. For a time, the federal system allowed the transfer of Moffitt to Bennington and made him available to the state court. That changed Saturday when federal prosecutors from the US Attorneys Office in Vermont contacted Marthage to officially retract that permission. Soon after, Moffitts federal defense attorney filed an emergency motion with the judge in this federal case to compel the US Attorneys Office to allow Moffitt to stand trial in Bennington by ordering his transport to Bennington. Chief District Judge Christina Reiss agreed and granted the motion, allowing the trial to begin. It is believed that the emergency motion was an attempt by Moffitt to game the system by forcing the state to bring him to trial without an official, DNA-confirmed body. The significantly weakened case would give Moffitt a greater chance of being acquitted. Had the delay happened, it would have given prosecutors the time to present DNA evidence that positively identified the remains as Hidlenbrandt. As of now, they are forced to present the case without one. That issue could play into defense strategy as they look for reasonable doubt. The decisions over that last weekend seemed to have forced States Attorney Erica Marthage to make the unusual decision to dismiss the case without prejudice. This allows the state to make the DNA connection they needed while retaining the ability to recharge Moffitt at any time in the future. Had they dismissed the charges with prejudice, the case would have been over, and there would have been no chance of Moffitt facing these charges again. Deven Moffitt, 33, was officially charged in June 2022 with murder in the second degree in the death of Jessica Hildenbrandt, 47, after a 33-month investigation revealed a violent and abusive relationship that started when Moffitt was a Vermont prisoner. On a sunny day in mid-September 2019, a man walking through a gravel pit in Searsburg discovered what appeared to be a human jawbone on the ground. Vermont State Police soon arrived and started searching the area. What they found launched a long homicide investigation that ended in Moffits arrest after a joint operation made up of Bennington Police, FBI, Homeland Security, and Vermont State Police, and ended with Moffitt being chased and then tackled on Jefferson Avenue in Bennington. After searching the area in and around the gravel pit for several days after the 2019 discovery, police found a shallow grave nearby on Somerset Road. The grave was covered with dirt, rocks, and tree branches. It was apparent to investigators that the grave had been disturbed by animals. There, they found large amounts of human hair still attached to the scalp, fingernails, teeth, and jewelry. Additional bones were discovered nearby. Later, DNA testing revealed a match to Hildenbrandt. Deputy Chief Pathologist Elizabeth Bundock of the Office of The Chief Medical Examiner completed a death certificate, listing the manner of death as a homicide. According to police affidavits, Hildenbrandt was in a tenuous and abusive relationship with Moffitt while he was serving time in Vermont for leaving the scene of a crash with property damage and escaping custody. It started as a respectful relationship, but Moffitt became controlling and possessive at some point in the phone and email-only relationship, threatening Hildenbrandt and accusing her of being with someone else. Soon after, Moffitt demanded Hildenbrandt begin sneaking contraband drugs into the prison for him by sewing Suboxone strips into her court clothes and bringing them into the Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield. Hildenbrandt, feeling threatened, eventually emailed the Windsor County States Attorneys Office to indicate that she was in fear for her life. Please Help Me Jessica, she wrote at the end of the email to authorities. In subsequent emails to Vermont State Police Detective Sgt. Jesse Robson, she said, His behavior was calling me out by my name, calling me [expletives]. She then told Robson in an email that Moffitt told her, If I was to leave him that, he would kill me. You know I am coming home, and I will kill you. At one point, Moffitt allegedly intimidated Hildenbrandt into putting her house up as collateral so he could get out of jail. That was July 8, 2019, just six days before police believed Hildenbrandt might have been killed. Jury selection was scheduled for two days on Tuesday, with a 10-day trial to follow immediately. Moffit was facing a life sentence with a presumptive 20-year minimum behind bars on the Murder charge. He is also currently charged in Windham County with aggravated domestic assault related to Hildenbrandt. Moffitt has yet to be charged in the federal drug and gun conviction. He is currently in federal custody. "Today, I made the difficult decision to dismiss without prejudice the charge against Deven Moffitt," said State Attorney Erica Marthage soon after the filing. "This decision was made to ensure that Mr. Moffitt has received his federal sentence and to allow for related other counts in the state matter to proceed if appropriate. We believe that additional forensic testing will confirm that the remains located in Searsburg belonged to Jessica Hildebrandt. If that confirmation occurs, we will refile this and any related charges against Mr. Moffitt." A request for comment by Moffitt's attorney, Robert Sussman, was left unanswered. The project outside Town Hall organized by former state Rep. William "Smitty" Pignatelli will honor Berkshire County members of the military who died in service to the U.S. from World War I to the present. Fireplaces, woodstoves, and pellet stoves should also be used safely. Remember to open the dampener before lighting a fire; use only dry, seasoned wood, and keep a three-foot circle of safety around the fireplace or stove free of anything that can burn. If youve ever been in a battle, whether physical or spiritual, you know how easy it is to grow weary and lose sight of the reason youre fighting. Soldiers on the battlefield often carry pictures of their loved ones as a simple yet powerful reminder of what they are fighting for. The same is true for us as Christians. In a world filled with things we dont agree with, its easy to become consumed by the fight against whats wrong. You might find yourself constantly speaking out against everything Christians oppose. But if thats all people see or hear, theyll only know you by what youre against, not what you stand for. Being a Christian is about so much more than what were against. Its about proclaiming what were for. When you look at the life of Jesus, he didnt spend his time solely condemning the wrong. Instead, he focused on the good news he came to bring. Maybe its time we take a page from his example and remind the world what Christians are truly about and what were for. Christians Are For Loving God with All Your Heart Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-38). If Christians are for anything, it makes sense to start with the greatest commandment. All Christians should be for loving God first. Sad to say, I dont know if this is true of many who profess to know Jesus. The reason is you dont show your love for God by the words that proceed from your mouth, but by the actions that proceed from your life. To love God means to obey God. Who we are as Christians and what we present to the world would be radically different if we truly loved God first. Yet, that is who we are (or supposed to be) and this is what we stand for. I challenge you to think about what it means to love God. After doing that, ask yourself, how does your life align with that? Does it show the world you are for loving God with all your heart? Christians Are For Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself If loving God is our first priority, then loving our neighbors as ourselves should be our second priority. Again, listen to the words of Jesus. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments (Matthew 22:39-40). Just like loving God, loving your neighbor is not about words but actions. To love your neighbor as yourself means you are patient with them, and you show them kindness. This means you don't get easily angered by their actions or words, and you don't hold grudges against them. To love means there is no arrogance, but humility and you dont look down on others. This is what we believe, and this is what Christians are for, or at least they should be. One of the most amazing statements Jesus ever made was this one. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (John 13:35). Everything in our faith centers around love. We are saved because God loved us first and we responded to his love. After salvation, our relationship with him deepens as our love for him deepens as well. Then we take this love we have received and share it with the rest of the world. Christians are for love because that is the foundation of our faith. We cannot miss this because without it, the world will not understand who the followers of Christ really are. Finally, if we dont love others, then we cant love God. Thats why above everything else, Christians must be for love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen (1 John 4:19-20). Christians Are For Spreading the Gospel One of the greatest expressions of love we can share with others is sharing the gospel with them. The challenge we often face is the way we do this. For most of us, it comes back to one simple reality: relationships. We tell people about Jesus because we believe he came to die for our sin and offer us a way of forgiveness and eternal life. At our core, this is what Christians stand for. Thats why I find it a little disturbing when we berate, mock, or even belittle those who dont know Jesus. Our hearts should break over those who dont know Jesus, because they face an eternity without him. This mindset draws us back to the two most important things Christians are for, loving God and loving others. When we share the gospel, not only are we showing love, we are aligning with Gods heart. His desire is that no one would perish but that all would come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Taking the time to share the gospel can go a long way toward making this happen. Christians Are For Making Disciples Christians are for helping other people grow in their walk with the Lord. We call this discipleship, and this is one of the last things Jesus instructed his disciples to do. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:19-20). Somehow, over the years, we have made Christianity about something else whether it is improving your life, getting ahead, making more money, or even gathering more political influence. While in theory there is nothing wrong with these things, they are not our primary focus. Helping someone love Jesus more and obey Jesus more is so much greater because it will have an effect in this life and all eternity. Christians Are For Living Holy The way we live should be a big deal for Christians. We are called to live holy lives that reflect the inner transformation that has taken place. To be holy does not mean perfect, but your life should look different because you are living in a way that pleases God. This means your integrity, your character, and everything you do whether people are watching and especially when they are not all matter. Holiness does not mean you just hold yourself to a higher standard. It means you also hold those who profess to be followers of Christ to a higher standard as well. Ultimately, the motivation for this is not because we think we are better, but because we love Jesus and we want to represent him well. This takes us right back to where we started. Christians are for loving God. And when we really do that, it trickles down into everything else we stand for. Imagine for a moment that this defined your life and reputation. Loving God Loving your neighbor as yourself Sharing the love of Christ with others Helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus Living a holy life filled with integrity. If these are the markers that define your life and what you stand for, then it does not matter where you live, what profession you pursue, or how much money you make. Your life will influence those around you. I would argue that this type of influence is what all Christians should stand for and strive for. If we are going to be known for anything, that is an impressive list. If we can do this, it will truly make a difference in this world. Photo credit: Getty Images/Giuseppe Lombardo Many of us are familiar with Jesus words regarding how we treat the least of these. We usually hear them in sermons designed to guilt us into giving. The message goes something like this: Jesus loves the poor. Therefore, if you really love Him, youll donate to this cause. Please dont misunderstand. Im not denying the general truth represented by this statement. My concern lies in how we tend to apply it. God never strong-arms, manipulates or coerces us into behaving a certain way. Rather, He motivates us with love that first flows in us, fills us, then streams from us. We must interpret all of Christs words through this premise. Only then will we accurately understand His message in Matthew 25:40, which reads, The King will reply, Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. Literary Context This verse comes from a parable Jesus told during the last week of His earthly ministry. This was the third and last analogy used to discuss what Scripture terms the end of this age (Matthew 25:3-14). He began with a story of ten brides awaiting their groom to illustrate that we wont know the day or hour of His return, and therefore must remain alert and prepared. Next, He shared a story of a rich man who entrusted his wealth to three servants. This reminds us that all we have comes from and belongs to God, and He expects us to manage His resources well (Matthew 25:14-30). Next, we reach the passage in which we find two related phrases: whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me (Matthew 25:40b). And Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me (Matthew 25:45b). These read as harsh statements, and the surrounding text does little to soften their intensity. Beginning in verse 11, He said when the end times come, He will gather all the nations before Him and separate their people like a shepherd removes goats from his herd. According to His words that follow, He bases His dividing criteria on peoples generosity, or lack thereof. Christs Declared Qualification In Matthew 25:34-46, He said: Then the King will say to those on his right, Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me. Then these righteous ones will reply, Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you? And the King will say, I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me! Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons. For I was hungry, and you didnt feed me. I was thirsty, and you didnt give me a drink. I was a stranger, and you didnt invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didnt give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didnt visit me. Then they will reply, Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you? And he will answer, I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me. Jesus Heart Revealed This passage speaks comfort to the impoverished, defeated, sorrowful and oppressed. Jesus doesnt just see our pain, nor does He simply feel compassion for our struggle. He hurts with us. He so closely aligns Himself to us that He experiences our wounding personally, as if He was standing in our place and enduring every blow. As a mother, I understand this. Ive felt deep compassion for many people, and their stories of hardship have often brought me to tears. Ive prayed, fervently and persistently, for those I care about. But my daughters struggles hit me at a visceral level, more intensely than if I found myself walking through them. If youre a parent, you can probably relate. Consider Jesus words regarding the hungry, thirsty, and imprisoned through this lens. Although the Lord advocates mercy and compassion for all, its important to note that not everyone in a first-century dungeon committed crimes. Greek and Roman sources indicate many, if not most, of those incarcerated landed in that place due to debt. Further, scholars estimate that 90% of the population struggled to meet their familys basic needs, let alone pay the exorbitant amount of taxes imposed on them by Rome and its dishonest collectors. Cultural Relevance This dire reality was further complicated by the fact that most people thought an individuals socio-economic status was assigned at birth. Those with wealth received honor and influence while the impoverished experienced a lifetime of shame and public disdain. A vast majority also believed all resources were limited, and therefore one persons gain resulted in someone elses lack. As you can imagine, such a scarcity mindset and judgmental view did not encourage generosity. In view of all this, one can envision the impact of Christs words. He not only advocated for those first century society scorned. He also elevated them by association while highlighting a core attribute of His followers. He wasnt saying that people could earn salvation through compassionate living and lose it through selfishness and greed. We know this because Scripture affirms, in numerous places, that eternal life comes through faith in Christ. John 13:34-35 says A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. To phrase it differently, their intimacy with and vital connection to Christ would necessarily impact how they treated the men and women God created. The closer I am to the Lord, the more grace I feel toward others. For example, thereve been numerous times when a critical thought about someone pops into my mind and I immediately sense Gods conviction and feather-soft whisper. In those moments, He often reminds me of two important, unchanging truths: He loves them fiercely, and deep within their souls, sometimes buried beyond their awareness, they long for His love. This, in turn, softens my heart toward them. What Jesus Didnt Say This doesnt mean the Lord expects us to give all that we have to whomever we encounter. We know this, again, from considering other passages in Scripture. In Proverbs were encouraged to manage our finances well so that we can provide for our families and even leave an inheritance for our children (Proverbs 13:22). Scripture also emphasizes the importance of merging truth and love. Im reminded of the apostle Pauls instructions in Ephesians 4:29, which states, Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. While this verse speaks specifically to the words we use, we can apply the broad principle of responding to the needs of others to all interactions. A recently laid off single mom needs financial assistance. A drug addict who refuses treatment does not. Similarly, God might ask us to drive an elderly man to and from his cancer treatment while encouraging us to allow the teenager who lost their license to walk to school. Our Response Considering all this, how should we, Gods children, apply Christs words in Matthew 25? I dont believe He meant for us to take them as pass or fail qualifications. They do, however, provide something of a litmus test to gauge our spiritual health and maturity. If we rarely feel drawn to help those who are in material, physical, or emotional need, we might need to connect, more fully and consistently, with Jesus. More specifically, we might need to more fully and consistently receive His love. This brings to mind two inseparable verses. The first comes from John 14:15, where Jesus said: If you love me, keep my commands. For years, I read this as, If you disobey Me, you dont truly love Me and therefore must love Me more. In other words, I placed the emphasis on myself and my efforts to muster increased attachment to Christ. But then I reflected upon this verses necessary companion, which comes from 1 John 4:19. It states: We love because he first loved us. This tells us where our love, for God and others, comes from, and its not from within ourselves. Therefore, if we want to love others more deeply, more compassionately and sacrificially, we will prioritize our time reflecting upon and learning to receive Christs love for us. This is what He illustrated in John 15:4-5: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. Pause to consider the life of a tomato, raspberry or grape. Their role is to remain connected to the vine that nourishes them and to absorb every drop of vitality it provides. The necessary result is beautiful, sweet, life-giving fruit. God wants us to live with that same level of dependence, because the soul filled with Him naturally overflows His goodness onto others. He also counters the scarcity mindset that fuels our desires to hoard. As we rest in His unconditional, unending love, He reminds us that we are well-cared for and therefore can give of our time and resources to others without fear. We wont have to force ourselves to give to the hungry, invite the stranger to dinner, or visit those who feel hopeless and oppressed because His Spirit will work in us to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose (Ephesians 2:13). If this resonated with you and you sense God inviting you to share with the hurting this winter, I invite you to join me in partnering with Samaritans Purse to provide food for babies and helping to rescue children in crisis. You can do so here. Photo credit: Getty Images/photographer Jennifer Slattery is a writer and speaker who co-hosts the Faith Over Fear podcast and, along with a team of 6, the Your Daily Bible Verse podcast. Shes addressed womens groups, Bible studies, and taught at writers conferences across the nation. Shes the author of Building a Family and numerous other titles and maintains a devotional blog at JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLou d.com . Shes passionate about helping people experience Christs freedom in all areas of their lives. Visit her online to learn more about her speaking or to book her for your next womens event, and sign up for her free quarterly newsletter HERE and make sure to connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and GodTube. China's top legislator holds talks with Congress of Peru president Xinhua) 08:30, January 07, 2025 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) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) An outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been reported in parts of China, drawing international attention and concern about the potential of another pandemic. The disease has been spreading in the northern Chinese regions, with a large number of infected patients being children. The country's Center for Disease Control (CDC) has already warned people to take precautions to prevent a further spread. Several countries are already monitoring the virus and its spread. But how similar is HMPV to COVID-19? Should one worry about the possibility of another pandemic? Here's all you need to know. What Is HMPV? Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes infections in people of all ages, but it's especially prevalent in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. HMPV belongs to the same family of viruses as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza virus, and it typically spreads through close contact with infected individuals or by touching contaminated surfaces. HMPV usually causes mild cold-like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. However, in some cases, particularly in vulnerable groups, it can lead to more severe lower respiratory tract infections like bronchiolitis, pneumonia or exacerbations of existing conditions like asthma or COPD. The virus is most common during winter and early spring, with an incubation period of about 3 to 6 days. Is HMPV a New Virus? It was first discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands, but scientists believe it has been causing respiratory illnesses for at least 50 years worldwide. People have built up a level of immunity from past infections. In comparison, COVID-19 was a new disease that had never infected humans before. This meant people had no immunity against COVID-19, which led to and drove the pandemic-level spread. It is important to note that there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Most people recover on their own with rest and supportive care. Can HMPV Cause a New Pandemic? Amid concerns over an outbreak of HMPV, health experts said there is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation. "I don't think we're necessarily concerned about a pandemic with this virus, but the surge in cases and impact it's having are significant," Prof. Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater Health Services in Brisbane, said, as quoted by The Guardian. That said, health experts highly encourage people to follow prevention methods such as good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping surfaces clean. They also recommend wearing a mask, especially when going into crowded places, to prevent an infection, especially for individuals at higher risk. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. RNT Health Insights receives second US FDA breakthrough device designation for oesophageal cancer detection tool January 07, 2025 | Tuesday | News Oesophageal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in India image credit- shutterstock RNT Health Insights, a Chandigarh-based health-tech startup specialising in AI-assisted diagnostic solutions for the accurate detection of pathologies during endoscopic procedures, has been granted its second US FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for its Oesophageal Cancer detection tool. This tool aids gastroenterologists in the real-time detection and identification of early-stage and advanced esophageal cancers during standard white-light upper GI endoscopy procedures. Oesophageal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in India, and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, claiming over 540,000 lives annually. Its prognosis is notably poor, with a five-year survival rate of less than 20%. This is primarily due to the associated high miss rate of detection during early stages and attributed to the fact that it is almost always detected at an advanced stage. Research underscores that early and accurate detection significantly improves survival outcomes; in some cases, the 5-year prognosis can improve to 90%. Despite advances in endoscopic technologies, early-stage detection of oesophageal cancer is challenging, with studies indicating that up to 25% of oesophageal cancer-related pathologies may be missed during routine endoscopic procedures. RNT Health Insights tool effectively aids in detecting subtypes such as adenocarcinoma, and dysplasia associated with Barrett's oesophagus. While not intended to replace clinical decision-making, this technology integrates into existing clinical workflows, ensuring endoscopists can maintain full control over decision-making while benefiting from enhanced diagnostic support. This tool intends to greatly improve the accuracy of detection of early-stage lesions, reducing the missed detection rate thereby significantly improving patient outcomes. With this designation, the company intends to accelerate timelines for approval and market access and gain access to early feedback and support from patient advocacy groups and payor organizations for early coverage. JOHN DAY Blue Mountain Hospital kicked off 2025 by welcoming the hospitals first New Years baby since 2014. The proud parents, Mariah and Danner Davis of Prairie City, welcomed a 6-pound baby girl they named Whitney into the world at 6 p.m. on New Years Day. Whitney Davis has one sibling, Jace Davis, who is 2 years old. The family received a gift basket full of items that were donated by Blue Mountain Hospital as well as gift certificates donated from Chesters Market, the Snaffle Bit Restaurant, Hotel Prairie and the Grant County Fairgrounds. Since 1964 there have been just 11 babies born on New Years Day at Blue Mountain Hospital, according to hospital officials. 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. Bonauto first fought to legalize same-sex marriage in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Maine before arguing before the Supreme Court in Obergefell v. Hodges, which established marriage equality as the law of the land. Her efforts made millions of families whole and forged a more perfect Union, read a statement from the White House. 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The US rapper is billed to top performances at the Hollywood Park Grounds in Los Angeles on Saturday March 15th, with Playboi Carti headlining the Sunday stage of the hip-hop festival. Advertisement The announcement comes weeks before Rocky is set to face a jury on charges that he fired a gun at a former friend and collaborator on the streets near a Hollywood hotel in 2021. ROLLING LOUD CALIFORNIA MARCH 15-16, 2025 FIRST ACCESS TO TICKETS THIS FRIDAY @ 11AM PT GENERAL ON SALE THIS FRIDAY @ 12PM PT WEEKEND PASSES START AT $179 ALL IN Sign Up For First Access https://t.co/PsLzA2nUuz pic.twitter.com/8jb3Wm39MK Rolling Loud (@RollingLoud) January 7, 2025 Rocky, real name Rakim Mayers, previously pleaded not guilty to two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. The trial had been scheduled to start on November 12th, 2024, but his team previously requested that it be postponed because Rocky was set to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in Thailand. A case readiness hearing is expected to take place on January 15th, ahead of jury selection on January 21st, with the trial expected to last two weeks. Advertisement Rocky could be sentenced to 24 years in prison if convicted on all charges. The trial also comes before the 2025 Met Gala in May, where Rocky has been selected to serve as a co-chairman alongside Pharrell Williams, Sir Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo and LeBron James acting as the honorary co-chairman. Rihanna and ASAP Rocky attend the Fashion Awards in 2024 (Ian West/PA) The hip-hop star, fashion mogul and two-time Grammy nominee shares two children with pop star Rihanna. The couples first child, RZA, was born in May 2022, while their son Riot Rose was born in August 2023. Advertisement Last month, the pair arrived at Londons Fashion Awards where Rocky received the cultural innovator award celebrating a leader who has created viral fashion moments which have had a profound impact on the fashion industry and wider culture over the last year. It came after Rocky brought his zeitgeisty style to the global stage at the Paris Fashion Week in June, debuting his AWGE runway collection American Sabotage. Rolling Loud, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, will also feature performances from Mexican star Peso Pluma and former Migos frontman, Quavo. Non-compliant construction work has been identified by Dublin City Council at one of the largest housing developments in the country. Some work on the flagship affordable housing project at Oscar Traynor Road in Coolock, under construction by developer Glenveagh, has been paused over a failure to comply with building regulations. Advertisement In a report to councillors on Monday, council chief executive Richard Shakespeare said: "During the course of inspection, concerns regarding compliance of the works with relevant parts of the building regulations were brought to the attention of site management and the assigned certifier. Developer Glenveagh is engaging with the process, Mr Shakespeare said, and investigations are continuing to identify all potential issues including pausing of some works to allow for these investigations to be carried out. Ireland New TDs on next Dail term: Government will live o... Read More Discussions are ongoing to agree what works are required to rectify non-compliant work and these works will then need to be carried out by Glenveagh in a timely manner. The local authority's Assistant Chief Executive for Housing, Mick Mulhern, told Newstalk this morning it's unclear whether there will be a delay completing the homes. Advertisement The State-subsidised estate of 853 homes in Coolock is under construction by developer Glenveagh with the plan for 40 per cent to be social housing, 40 per cent rentals at prices lower than the current market, and 20 per cent as affordable housing. The A-rated homes range from one-bed to four-bed, with a range of communal facilities including a community centre, a childcare facility and communal open spaces. The homes were due to built in phases. Independent councillor Mannix Flynn said he was deeply concerned, given the houses were being built on what was council-owned land, with the approval of councillors. People are being urged to keep their guard up ahead of a Status Orange low temperature warning issued for most counties on Tuesday and Wednesday night. Snow and sub-zero conditions have already caused hazardous driving conditions and cut power and water to thousands of homes, with crews from various agencies working to help stranded communities. Advertisement The worst-hit counties are Tipperary, Limerick, Cork and Kerry, where authorities have deployed additional supports to clear snow before sub-zero temperatures hit again. Weather warnings are continuing into Wednesday in some areas (Niall Carson/PA) An Orange alert is in place for most counties from 8pm on Tuesday until 10am on Wednesday, with severe frost, ice and snow forecast. Another Orange low temperature warning is in place from 6pm on Wednesday until 11am on Thursday for 25 counties. Separately, a Status Yellow low temperature warning remains in place for all counties until 6am on Friday. Advertisement Taoiseach Simon Harris warned people to be aware of the invisible hazards as temperatures fall to as low as minus eight degrees overnight. Speaking in Naas, Co Kildare, at the opening of Craddockstown Special School, Mr Harris said Ireland was moving from snow to low temperatures and people would face treacherous conditions as a result. He added: We will experience cold weather, the likes of which were not very used to in this country talking about temperatures dropping to minus eight degrees, minus 10 degrees, and in many ways, it could potentially be a more dangerous period of time, because while snow may not be visible everywhere, footpaths and roads can be extremely dangerous. Mr Harris said the emphasis was on local decision making as weather conditions vary greatly within counties and this placed a significant burden on principals, teachers and boards of managements on whether to open. Advertisement He asked people to help each other out and said that nobody should be afraid to put on the heating during the cold spell. Mr Harris said: Its really important that people keep their guard up, because footpaths, roads and the likes can be extremely treacherous in the hours ahead. The ESB said 10,000 of its customers were without power by 7am on Tuesday, while approximately 17,000 people were without water by midday on Tuesday, down from 30,000 on Monday night. However, Uisce Eireann expects that freezing temperatures overnight may have further impacts on water supplies. Advertisement Temperatures are expected to struggle to get above freezing during the day with transport disruption and hazardous travelling conditions. Tuesday is set to have the highest temperatures of zero to 5 degrees. Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock said it will be bitterly cold overnight into Wednesday, adding that a few wintry showers will affect parts of the north and west. The lowest temperatures are expected to be minus 8 degrees to minus 3 degrees generally, although it could dip even lower in some regions, with a severe frost and icy stretches. Advertisement A man clears snow from the pathway in the village of Ballylynan in Co Laois (Niall Carson/PA) The agency is also warning of the risk of freezing fog developing over the coming days. Temperatures are predicted to increase through Thursday night and Friday as rain, sleet and snow moves north-eastwards over the country, becoming milder for the weekend. The cold snap has seen tens of thousands of people without water and electricity, with crews continuing to work to restore access to the services for the remaining affected homes and businesses on Tuesday. Ireland Cold snap latest: Orange low temperature and ice w... Read More The severe weather also prompted the Health Service Executive to cancel non-urgent appointments in the south-west of the country. The Defence Forces were deployed on Monday to assist with transporting patients and essential healthcare workers amid hazardous conditions. Some public transport services have been curtailed and cancelled while schools in the worst-affected parts of the country also took the decision to close, with the situation being assessed on a morning-by-morning basis. The eldest son of US President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Greenland for a private visit that has heightened speculation that the incoming US administration could seek to take control of the Danish territory. The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jnrs plane landed in Nuuk, the capital of the vast and icy territory that has some 57,000 residents. Advertisement In a statement, Greenlands government said Mr Trump Jnrs visit would take place as a private individual and not as an official visit and that Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Donald Trump Jnr speaks at a campaign rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan (Evan Vucci/AP) Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland foreign affairs department, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Mr Trump Jnr would stay for about four to five hours. There have been no requests from his delegation for official meetings with government representatives. The government of Greenland has also not requested meeting with the delegation, he said. Advertisement The visit nonetheless has strong political overtones. It comes after President-elect Donald Trump recently voiced a desire which he also expressed in during his first presidency to acquire the vast Artic territory. Greenland is an autonomous territory that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. A view of the Danish fleets frigate Triton, off the village of Attu in Greenland (Ritzau Scanpix/AP) It also comes as Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has been calling for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. Advertisement But Mr Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the US, insisting that the island is not for sale. Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting his kingdoms rights to both Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Last month, the king changed Denmarks coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by an upright sitting silver bear with red tongue. Advertisement The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. People walk in the town of Aasiaat in western Greenland (Ida Marie Odgaard/AP) We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, Frederik said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. Mr Trump Jnr is in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorised to speak publicly. The president-elect posted on his social media site on Monday night, referring to his Make America Great Again movement: 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. Advertisement Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, Mr Trump wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Mr Trump has had designs on Greenland before. In a statement last month as he announced his pick for US 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. Mr 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. During his first term, Mr Trump mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He even cancelled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet and is home to a large US military base. Austrian far-right leader Herbert Kickl said on Tuesday in his first comments after being tasked to form a new government that he aspires to govern Austria honestly as he prepared for talks on a potential coalition with conservatives who criticised him sharply in the past. Mr Kickl said he is prepared for new elections if they fail. Advertisement His Russia-friendly, anti-immigration, eurosceptic Freedom Party won Austrias parliamentary election in September but was initially shunned by other parties. Their efforts to put together a coalition without it failed. On Monday, Mr Kickl received a mandate to try to form what would be the first national government led by the far-right since the Second World War. That came after the conservative Austrian Peoples Party of outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammer, who announced his resignation on Saturday, made an abrupt U-turn on its previous refusal to contemplate working with the Freedom Party under Mr Kickl. Mr Kickl, 56, made clear he has not forgotten past friction with the Peoples Party. Mr Nehammer has described him as a security risk. Advertisement The partys interim leader, Christian Stocker, said during the election campaign that anyone voting for Mr Kickl is voting for five years of high risk with radical ideas. Our country was driven into the wall in the past five years, Mr Kickl said, pointing in particular to Austrias large budget deficit and what he said was a massive trust deficit accumulated by mainstream parties. He said he has a very, very simple aim, and that is to govern Austria honestly. Mr Kickl said he is reaching out to Mr Stocker, and you can believe me, that isnt easy for me either we have an interesting past together but it is honest. Advertisement Mr Kickl added he has clear expectations, including an awareness of who won the election, and who finished second and isnt the winner. He also demanded an understanding of who is responsible for the mistakes of the past and a partner with stable and consistent leadership. If this isnt assured I can say thats it, Mr Kickl said. Then there will be new elections we are prepared for that. The Freedom Party won 28.8% of the vote in September. That was a nearly 13-point gain from five years earlier, when the party was punished by voters following the collapse of a conservative-led government in which it was the junior partner amid a scandal surrounding the Freedom Partys then-leader. Advertisement The Austrian Peoples Party came in second with 26.3% and the centre-left Social Democrats, post-war Austrias other traditional big party, were third with 21.1%. The Freedom Partys poll ratings have risen since the election as its rivals struggled and failed to find common ground. Surveys published in December put its support at between 35% and 37%. Mr Kickl did not address any specific policies for Austria, a member of the European Union but not Nato, in his lengthy statement to reporters. He took no questions. The Freedom Party is part of a right-wing populist alliance in the European Parliament, Patriots for Europe, which includes the parties of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and of the Netherlands Geert Wilders, whose party dominates the Netherlands new government. Advertisement Mr Nehammer has said he will step down on Friday. It is not clear who will serve as interim chancellor while Mr Kickl explores a possible coalition. As US president-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume the White House on January 20th, the federal government is bracing for a massive overhaul in policy and how it labels issues and individuals. Potentially limited or wiped from official government websites and documents are references to climate change, "undocumented immigrants" or "non-citizens" in favour of "illegal aliens" and prominent mentions of LGBTQ+ rights, experts say. Advertisement Ahead of Mr Trump's first term, researchers expected to see changes that were more subtle like references to "impacts" versus "effects" of climate change, explained Gretchen Gehrke, Website Monitoring Program Lead at the Environmental Data & Governance Initiative. "And we did see a fair amount of content changes like that, but what we mostly saw was straight up deletion," she said. "We mostly saw massive access reductions, a lot of information suppression." This time, Ms Gehrke and other policy advocates are bracing for an even more extreme shift. From references to climate change to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, the likely changes could be more significant than mere semantics. "It's important how things are presented; it's important to not get rid of actually talking about carbon emissions and actually talking about methane, to just talk about some sort of hand-wavy 'sustainability' without saying what that means," Ms Gehrke said. Advertisement "We can't actually address a problem that we can't name." 'Taken down' and 'stripped' A spokeswoman for Mr Trump's transition team did not answer directly when asked to what extent references to climate change would be changed or removed but touted his record on energy and the environment in his first term. "In his second term, President Trump will once again deliver clean air and water for American families while Making America Wealthy Again," said Karoline Leavitt. During Trump's first administration, the US government removed or significantly reduced the prominence of climate change content on government websites and removed information about international obligations on climate change, according to a 2018 report from Ms Gehrke and her colleagues. Advertisement "What appears to be part of the Trump administration's agenda is to take away information that can point out a problem," she said. US president Joe Biden's administration refocused on issues tied to climate change and mitigation strategies. Those efforts included a historic emphasis on "environmental justice" issues - and even a quantifiable scorecard the government has used to identify historically underserved communities when considering grant applications and financial requests. Ms Gehrke said she expects that tool to be on the chopping block on "day one" of Mr Trump's administration. Advertisement Her organisation is tracking or monitoring some 5,000 URLs this time around for changes, with a focus on climate and environmental justice. "We expect most any justice-related language to be stripped ... We're cognizant of the 'anti-woke' campaigning and anywhere there's diversity, equity and inclusion type language," she said. "So we're watching that and expecting environmental justice stuff to go away across agencies." 'Dehumanising' language Immigration and Mr Trump's agenda of the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants is arguably the most fleshed-out policy priority of the incoming administration. Advertisement And with it could come a move away from terms like "undocumented immigrants" or "non-citizens" used to describe people who are in the country without valid visas and a return to "illegal alien," an old holdover from immigration law. "Using a term like 'illegal' evokes images of criminality, which undermines the reality of the way in which undocumented immigrants contribute to our economy and communities," said Nayna Gupta, policy director at the non-profit American Immigration Council. The terminology could have implications for refugee and asylum policy if things aren't clearly defined. "The blanket use of the word 'migrant' or 'criminal migrants' to describe all non-citizens and all people arriving at the southern border and those who are here living undocumented with years of life is a way to paint a picture in Americans' minds of somebody who's the other, who doesn't belong here who doesn't contribute, who doesn't add value," Ms Gupta said. "And that kind of language, as we've seen, can be effective in dehumanizing and creating an empathy deficiency when it comes to these communities we're talking about." Asked if the incoming administration planned to fully restore official government use of the term "illegal alien," Ms Leavitt said that Mr Trump "was given a mandate by the American people to stop the invasion of illegal immigrants, secure the border and deport dangerous criminals and terrorists that make our communities less safe. He will deliver". 'Erasing' transgender people? When Mr Trump first took office, the government curtailed references to LGBTQ+ issues, and there could be a similar approach this time around, said David Stacy, government affairs director at the Human Rights Campaign. Project 2025, a policy blueprint conservative activists drew up for a would-be Trump administration in the run-up to the campaign, called for the deletion of the terms "sexual orientation," "gender identity" and others, "out of every federal rule, agency regulation, contract, grant, regulation and piece of legislation that exists" if perceived to interfere with free speech. Though its impact remains unclear, anti-trans messaging was among the most heavily rotated series of ads by the Trump campaign. "They seem to be putting (in) more folks that are true believers in trying to erase transgender people from society and their ability to function in society," Mr Stacy said. "In that sense, this is a much more dangerous administration than the first one." The US Congress already voted in December in the annual defense spending bill to restrict certain funding for gender-affirming care for minor children of military members. World Alcohol cancer risk warning may face tough road wi... Read More Ms Leavitt said Mr Trump campaigned on "common sense policies: ending discussions about gender and sex in classrooms, reorienting public education to focus on reading, writing and math and ending taxpayer-funded transgender surgeries for inmates in federal prisons". Research shows strong public support for protecting the LGBTQ+ community remains largely intact. "The fundamentals here have not really moved despite the hostility of the campaign around these things," Mr Stacy said. "There is going to be significant opposition from the public and ... I know they won't achieve all the things they hope to achieve, but they can do some real harm." Bangladeshs ailing former prime minister Khaleda Zia was travelling to London on Tuesday for medical treatment, her aides said. It leaves a nation grappling with uncertainty over its political future after her arch rival, former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, was ousted in a student-led mass uprising in August. Advertisement An interim government headed by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus is running the country and plans to hold elections in December this year or in the first half of 2026. Ms Zia was sentenced to 17 years in jail under Ms Hasinas rule following two corruption cases stemming from 2001-2006 when she was prime minister. Her supporters say the charges against her were politically motivated, an allegation Ms Hasinas administration denied. Under Mr Yunus, Ms Zia was acquitted in one of the cases in November and an appeal in the second case was being heard on Tuesday. Ms Zia, 79, was freed on bail from jail under Ms Hasina through a government order and she has been having medical treatment in the country. But Ms Hasinas administration did not allow her to travel abroad for treatment despite requests seeking approval. Advertisement Ms Zias aides said she was due to leave the capital, Dhaka, aboard a special air ambulance sent by Qatars emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Bangladesh ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina (Altaf Qadri/AP) Hundreds of her supporters gathered outside her residence in the citys upscale Gulshan area to see her off. Many other supporters waited for hours along the road leading toward Dhakas international airport. Enamul Haque Chowdhury, a close aide of Ms Zia, told reporters that the air ambulance had arrived from Doha to take her to London, where her eldest son and heir apparent Tarique Rahman has been in exile since 2007. Mr Rahman is the acting chairman of Ms Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party and is expected to lead the party toward the election. The countrys dynastic politics have long focused on the families of Ms Hasina and Ms Zia. Advertisement Ms Zias personal doctor, AZM Zahid Hossain, said Qatars emir arranged the special aircraft with medical facilities for the former prime minister, whose ailments include liver cirrhosis, cardiac disease and kidney problems. Her departure follows dramatic political developments since last August, when Ms Hasinas 15-year rule ended. Ms Hasina fled into exile in India as she and her close aides faced charges of killing hundreds of protesters during a mass protest movement that began in July. Ms Zias departure could create a symbolic vacuum in the countrys politics amid efforts by a student group that led the anti-Hasina protest to form a new political party. In the absence of Ms Hasina and her secular Bangladesh Awami League party, the rise of Islamist political parties and other Islamist groups has been visible in the Muslim-majority country of 170 million people. Advertisement Ms Zias party has been bargaining with the Yunus-led government for an election sometime this year. Mr Yunus said his government wants to make some major reforms before the election. Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of Frances main far-right party, died on Tuesday at the age of 96, but the anti-immigration and nationalist ideas that propelled his decades of popularity remain ascendant in the country, across Europe and beyond. Mr Le Pens daughter, Marine Le Pen, transformed the National Front, now named the National Rally, into one of Frances most powerful political forces as she is now eyeing the 2027 presidential election. Advertisement Here is a look at the key dates in the life and career of one of Frances most controversial political figures, and his legacy. 1954-1957 Born in 1928 in the western region of Brittany, Jean-Marie Le Pen served in the military, fighting to maintain French colonial rule in Indochina and Algeria. He was a paratrooper in the 1957 battle of Algiers, later acknowledging violent actions he described as imposed by the hierarchy, in response to media reports accusing him of torture. Mr Le Pen was first elected as a politician in the French National Assembly in 1956 under the banner of a populist party. Jean Marie Le Pen leads a march to the statue of Joan of Arc with his three daughters Marie Caroline, Yann and Marine Le Pen, on May 12 1985 (Herve Merliac/AP) 1972 Jean-Marie Le Pen founded the National Front in a move to increase support for his anti-immigration, nationalist approach and to be able to run as a presidential candidate in the 1974 election, when he got 0.74% of the vote. Advertisement 1984 The National Front became a well-established force in French politics by winning 10 seats in the European Parliament, including one for Mr Le Pen. 1987 In an interview in 1987, Mr Le Pen referred to the Nazi gas chambers as a detail in World War II history. He would repeat the remark in 2015, saying he did not at all regret it, triggering the ire of his daughter, by then the party leader. 2002 Mr Le Pen qualified for the second round of the French presidential election, prompting a major political shock. In a rare joining of forces, supporters of the right and left poured into the streets of France in a massive show of solidarity against him. Conservative rival Jacques Chirac went on to win in a landslide victory with a record 82% of the vote. Advertisement A year later, Mr Le Pen said he wanted the notion of national preference written into the French Constitution to limit employment, housing opportunities and other social assistance to French citizens. Immigration is the greatest danger were facing, he said. Jean Marie Le Pen looks for his seat at the European Parliament in 2014 (Christian Lutz/AP) 2011 Mr Le Pens daughter, Marine Le Pen, became the leader of the National Front in 2011. She sought to make the party more mainstream, trying to remove the stigma of racism and antisemitism that clung to the party under her father. 2015 Jean-Marie Le Pen was expelled from the National Front because of his increasingly shocking statements. Three years later, in 2018, he lost his title of honorary president-for-life and the party changed its name to become the National Rally. 2017 and 2022 Marine Le Pen twice ran for president and reached the second round, losing to centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron. In 2022, she received 41.5% of the vote in the second round, significantly improving her results compared to 2017, when she got 33.9%. Advertisement In July 2022, she was elected as a member of the National Assembly, Frances powerful house of parliament, further consolidating her political influence. Jean-Marie Le Pen with his daughter Marine Le Pen in 2010 (Jacques Brinon/AP) 2024 The National Rally became one of the three major blocs and a powerful opposition group at the National Assembly, winning more than 120 seats at surprise legislative elections called by Mr Macron. At the end of 2024, Marine Le Pen and other officials went on trial over accusations of having used money intended for European Union parliamentary aides to instead pay staff who worked for the party between 2004 and 2016. Ms Le Pen faces a potential prison term and a ban on running for political office as the verdict is expected in March. An ex-gang leader is seeking to have all the charges against him dismissed in the 1990s killing of rap music icon Tupac Shakur. Lawyer Carl Arnold filed the motion on Monday in the District Court of Nevada to dismiss charges against Duane Davis in the 1996 shooting of Shakur. Advertisement The motion alleges egregious constitutional violations because of a 27-year delay in prosecution. The motion also asserts a lack of corroborating evidence and failure to honour immunity agreements granted to Davis by federal and local authorities. The prosecution has failed to justify a decades-long delay that has irreversibly prejudiced my client, Mr Arnold said in a news release. Duane Keffe D Davis, left, is accused of orchestrating the 1996 slaying of hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur (Bizuayehu Tesfaye/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP) Moreover, the failure to honour immunity agreements undermines the criminal justice systems integrity and seriously questions this prosecution. Advertisement Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comment on the filing. He has said evidence against Davis is strong and it will be up to a jury to decide the credibility of Davis accounts of the shooting including those in a 2019 memoir. Davis is originally from Compton, California. He was arrested in connection with the case in September 2023 near Las Vegas. Advertisement He has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and has sought to be released since shortly after his arrest. Davis is accused of orchestrating and enabling the shooting that killed Shakur and wounded rap music mogul Marion Suge Knight after a brawl at a Las Vegas Strip casino involving Shakur and Davis nephew, Orlando Baby Lane Anderson. Authorities have said that the gunfire stemmed from competition between East Coast members of a Bloods gang sect and West Coast groups of a Crips sect, including Davis, for dominance in a genre known at the time as gangsta rap. Undated handout photo issued by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department of Duane Keffe D Davis (LVMPD/PA) In interviews and a 2019 tell-all memoir that described his life as a leader of a Crips gang sect in Compton, Davis said he obtained a .40-caliber handgun and handed it to Anderson in the back seat of a car from which he and authorities say shots were fired at Shakur and Knight in another car at an intersection near the Las Vegas Strip. Advertisement Davis did not identify Anderson as the shooter. Shakur died a week later in a nearby hospital. He was 25. Knight survived and is serving a 28-year prison sentence in connection with the killing of a Compton man in 2015. Anderson denied involvement in Shakurs death and died in 1998 at age 23 in a shooting in Compton. Advertisement The other two men in the car are also dead. A Las Vegas police detective testified to a grand jury that police do not have the gun that was used to shoot at Shakur and Knight, nor did they find the vehicle from which shots were fired. A man pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to burning a sleeping woman to death inside a New York City subway train. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, appeared in a Brooklyn court in an orange jumpsuit and orange jacket, his hands cuffed behind his back as he was accused of murder and arson in the killing of Debrina Kawam, 57. Advertisement Prosecutors say Zapeta set the New Jersey woman on fire on a stopped train at Brooklyns Coney Island station on December 22. Zapeta then fanned the flames with a shirt before sitting on platform bench and watching as Ms Kawam burned, they allege. Sebastian Zapeta appeared in court with his hands cuffed behind his back (Seth Wenig/AP) Prosecutors say Zapeta confirmed to police he was the man in surveillance photos and videos of the fire but said he drinks a lot of alcohol and did not recall what happened. The documents show that Sebastian Zapeta said in Spanish, Oh, damn, thats me as he was shown footage of the burning. Advertisement I am very sorry. I didnt mean to, he then told detectives. I dont know what happened, but Im very sorry for that woman. He added that he had been drinking heavily throughout the night and fallen asleep on the subway, but did not remember what happened next. Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who authorities say entered the country illegally after being deported in 2018, faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole on the murder charge. The court hearing lasted under five minutes. Zapeta stood up, his eyes facing the floor, as a Spanish interpreter whispered into his ear. His next court date is set for March 12. Advertisement He was previously arraigned on a criminal complaint, but in New York, all felony cases require a grand jury indictment to proceed to trial unless a defendant waives that requirement. Prosecutors with Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalezs office announced Zapeta had been indicted in late December. Zapetas lawyer did not respond to an email seeking comment on Monday evening. 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. Advertisement 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. Advertisement 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. Advertisement 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. Advertisement 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. Advertisement 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. An upcoming trip to Kyiv by US President-elect Donald Trumps special envoy for Ukraine and Russia has been cancelled but will be rescheduled, Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha has said. The planned meetings between Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general who has long been Mr Trumps top adviser on defence issues, and Ukrainian officials are extremely important, Mr Sybiha told reporters in the Ukrainian capital. Advertisement I am confident that this meeting will take place in its own time, he said during a news conference with his visiting Icelandic counterpart. Icelands foreign minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, left, and Ukraines Foreign Minister Andriiy Sybiha in Kyiv, Ukraine (Efrem Lukatsky/AP) We are in contact to clearly define the timeline for its organisation and to ensure that the meeting is as meaningful as possible. Mr Trumps arrival in the White House on January 20 injects another measure of uncertainty into how the almost three-year-old war might unfold and whether it can end in the foreseeable future. Ukraine, up against a larger enemy, Russia, relies on Western and especially US military backing to keep fighting. Advertisement But Mr Trump has criticised the billions of dollars the Biden administration has spent on Ukraine. He has also said he could end the war in 24 hours, though he has not elaborated on how he might do that. Ukrainian officials are eager to sway Mr Trump on sticking with Ukraine. Servicemen have a short rest in a shelter on the front line near Chasiv Yar town in Ukraines Donetsk region (Ukraine 24th Mechanised Brigade via AP) President Volodymyr Zelensky has praised Mr Trumps strength and said the American presidents unpredictability could work in Ukraines favour. Advertisement Ukrainians have expressed hope tinged with pragmatism about Mr Trumps election victory last November. The war is draining the resources of both sides, though military analysts say the conflict is less sustainable for smaller Ukraine, and the wars recent trajectory has not been in its favour. Its undermanned army is under strain on the front line, especially in eastern areas, though Ukrainian officials say its five-month-long incursion into Russias Kursk border region shows that Russia is vulnerable. Donald Trump Jr arrived in Greenland's capital Nuuk on Tuesday, adding to speculation about American control of the resource-rich Arctic island shortly after his father, US president-elect Donald Trump, expressed renewed interest in the territory. Trump Jr arrived in a private jet at about 12:50 Irish time, according to a livestream from Nuuk airport, for what he and officials described as a private visit. Advertisement "No, I am not buying Greenland. Funny enough, I'm actually going on a very long personal day trip to Greenland," Trump Jr said in his podcast on Monday, adding he was visiting as a tourist. President-elect Trump, who takes office on January 20th, had earlier praised the island on his social media platform Truth Social, promising to "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. Greenland's prime minister Mute Egede has stated that the island is not for sale, but in his New Year speech stepped up a push for independence from Denmark. Aguia Resources is poised for the first gold pour at its 100 per cent-owned ultra high-grade Santa Barbara gold project in Colombias Bolivar district as work continues to ramp up on the mine development and its processing plant in readiness to treat 50 tonne per day (tpd) of ore for the shiny yellow metal. The first 25 tonnes of material have now been mined, crushed, milled and loaded into a series of three agitator tanks in preparation of being mixed with the carbon-in-leach solution. An electric locomotive entering an adit at Aquia Resources Santa Barbara ultra-high-grade gold project in Colombia. Each tank can hold up to five tonnes of ore at any one time with the company having commissioned a further three tanks allowing production to be increased to 30tpd. With the addition of a new thickener, currently being installed, the company has plans to further boost production to 50tpd by getting the turnaround time in the tanks down to less than 24 hours. In an age when carefully staged social media posts announcing engagements are the norm, Zendaya has stolen the Golden Globes limelight by debuting what appeared to be an engagement ring from her partner, fellow actor Tom Holland. The ring, reportedly designed by New Zealand-born jeweller to the stars Jessica McCormack, is thought to be a five-carat, cushion-cut diamond in a yellow gold band. While neither McCormack, Zendaya nor Holland has confirmed the engagement, internet sleuths discovered that the Challengers star had liked an Instagram post on the London-based jewellers account nearly three years ago featuring an almost-identical ring. So, what does Zendayas apparent choice of a cushion-cut diamond, as well as a spate of recent celebrity engagements say about trends more widely? Australia Post has taken action after allegations its own contractors took part in a plot to import more than half a million illegal cigarettes into Queensland. A suspected criminal syndicate was busted at a storage facility in Eagle Farm on December 11, where about 586,000 Marlboro and Double Happiness cigarettes were found by Australian Border Force officers. The raid followed an investigation into hundreds of deliveries to non-existent addresses over several months. Illegal tobacco bust in Eagle Farm, Brisbane. Credit: Australia Border Force (ABF) About 16,000 packages weighing more than 111 tonnes were imported between June and October last year potentially evading taxes worth about a quarter of a billion dollars. Police are scouring bushland west of Geelong in the hope of finding missing woman Lorrin Whitehead, who disappeared almost 12 years ago. Whitehead, then aged in her early 40s, was last seen getting into the drivers seat of a red 4WD in the centre of Bannockburn after going shopping shortly before 5pm on Friday, February 8, 2013. Lorrin Whitehead disappeared in 2013. The image on the right is a digital depiction of what she may look like today. Credit: Victoria Police Early on Tuesday, police announced a new search near Shelford, a town of fewer than 300 people about 42 kilometres west of Geelong in the Golden Plains Shire. This search is based on intelligence that Lorrins remains may potentially be located in this area, police said in a statement. A woman who drowned after slipping off rocks near Esperance on Saturday has been identified as a Ukrainian who recently escaped the war and was loving her new life in Western Australia. Olya Tikhanova, 40, was on a holiday with her husband and their teenage daughter when she was swept off the rocks at Salmon Beach while taking a photograph. Olya Tikhanova. Credit: GoFundMe Her death is the second drowning at the location since 2020, after Faycal Al Saidi disappeared into the ocean under similar circumstances. His body was never found. A colleague of the pair said Tikanovas husband tried to help her, but the conditions were too dangerous for him to enter the water. Opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson accused Foreign Minister Penny Wong of antagonising the Netanyahu government, saying it speaks volumes that the attorney-general is being sent to Israel to try to repair the profound damage to the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday that Dreyfus is an appropriate person to visit Israel. We have people regularly visit our friends, and Mark Dreyfus is visiting, the prime minister told reporters. Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin said Dreyfus would face difficult questions about Australias stance on Israel and the rise of antisemitism in Australia. We hope that the attorney-general returns to Australia with a newfound appreciation of why standing with Israel through this time of peril is not only the right thing to do, but in the national interest, he said. Abdulhadi, who is not technically an ambassador because Australia does not recognise a Palestinian state, expressed regret that Australia had not recognised Palestinian statehood during his tenure, but said he was very optimistic a Labor government would do so if it won the next federal election, which is due by May. There are many indications that they will recognise the state of Palestine and I think it will be actually surprising if they dont after all the positions they have taken, he said, pointing to strong support for Palestine in the union movement and Labor membership base. Recognition of the state of Palestine should not be pending Israels approval because self-determination for the Palestinian people is a right under international law. Labors policy platform calls on the Australian government to recognise Palestine as a state and says it expects that this issue will be an important priority. Abdulhadi, who arrived in Australia in 2006, said he was very thankful and grateful to the Albanese government for shifting Australias position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They have had the courage to take difficult positions that have sometimes attracted a lot of criticism, Abdulhadi said. Loading I think there has been a lot of progress under this government for Palestine, and I hope it will continue. Abdulhadi credited the government for voting in favour of a ceasefire in Gaza at the United Nations, designating the Palestinian territories occupied rather than disputed and scrapping the Morrison-era recognition of West Jerusalem as Israels capital. He also praised Wong for restoring funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees, and a major speech in which she said recognition of Palestine did not necessarily have to come at the end of a negotiated peace process. The government has reversed Australias long-standing voting record on several UN resolutions, including by supporting a December motion calling for Israel to end its presence in the West Bank and Gaza as soon as possible. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by attacking the government on social media, accusing it of adopting an extreme anti-Israeli position that had encouraged a surge of antisemitism in Australia. Abdulhadi represents the Palestinian Authority, which is dominated by Fatah, a more moderate political rival of Hamas, but is not a member of either party. He said the war in Gaza had been so deadly that the international community should gather to rethink the rules of war, as it did after World War II. We Palestinians are all in grief, in tears, watching these images on the TV, he said. Abdulhadi labelled Israels actions in Gaza a genocide, echoing several major human rights organisations and nations such as South Africa, which has filed a genocide claim against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Israel has rejected the genocide charge. Abdulhadi said he regarded Hamass October 7 attacks as totally wrong but added: We cant just perceive history as beginning on October 7. We cant ignore the root causes of the problem: the siege of Gaza, what happened in 1948 [when Israel was founded] and the continuous systematic oppression of Palestinian people. Opposition Leader Brad Battin has defended John Pesuttos shift to the backbench, insisting it was the former leaders decision, and says the party room will be united under his leadership. Some Pesutto allies have retained their positions or taken other portfolios, while many who backed Battin in the leadership contest have been rewarded for their loyalty. Opposition Leader Brad Battin (centre) on Tuesday, with Nationals leader Danny OBrien (left), finance spokeswoman Bridget Vallence and deputy Liberal leader Sam Groth. Credit: Paul Jeffers While formally unveiling his new-look alternative ministry on Tuesday, Battin also cited the elevation of young women to the outer shadow ministry as evidence of progress, despite women making up only a third of the Coalition frontbench. As reported on Monday night, Western Victoria MP Beverley McArthur has been elevated to cabinet, boosting the number of women on the Coalition frontbench from seven to eight. However, this still pales in comparison with Premier Jacinta Allans 21-person cabinet, which has a majority of women. Washington: US President-elect Donald Trump has not ruled out using military force to reclaim the Panama Canal and seize control of Greenland, insisting that both are vital for US national security. Speaking a day after his election was certified by Congress, he also accused the Biden administration of trying to thwart his presidential transition; reiterated his threat that there would be hell to pay if an Israel-Hamas hostage deal wasnt done by the time he returns to office; and announced that the Gulf of Mexico would be renamed the Gulf of America. President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday. Credit: AP But it was Trumps comments on the Panama Canal, which is controlled by Panamanian government, and Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, that raised the most eyebrows and are likely to exacerbate tensions between the US and the two other nations. Asked if he could assure the world that he would not use military force or economic coercion to claim either, Trump told reporters: No, I cant assure you on either of those two, but I can say this: we need them for our national security. North Korea claims successful test of new intermediate-range hypersonic missile North Korea said on Tuesday that it has successfully test-fired a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) tipped with a hypersonic warhead, claiming that the weapons system will reliably deter any rivals in the Pacific region. But the South Korean military said the North's claimed success of a hypersonic missile launch could be "deception," raising questions about its flight distance and other specifications. North Korea said the missile flew some 1,500 kilometres at 12 times the speed of sound the previous day during the testing overseen by leader Kim Jong-un via a monitoring system, Yonhap news agency reported quoting the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday that the North's suspected hypersonic missile, fired from the Pyongyang area, flew about 1,100 km before falling into the East Sea. The North Korean leader said the development of such a missile was aimed at bolstering the country's nuclear war deterrent by "making the weapon system to which no one can respond the linchpin of strategic deterrence." "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim was quoted as saying by the KCNA. "The system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," he added. The North's latest missile launch, the first provocation in about two months, came about two weeks before US President-elect Donald Trump assumes office on January 20. It also came amid political turmoil in South Korea sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition last month and his subsequent impeachment by the National Assembly. "North Korea probably intended to flex its muscle against the United States. As it said the latest launch was a test-firing, the weapons system does not appear to be completed, pointing to demand (to further develop) in terms of military technology," an official at South Korea's unification ministry told reporters. A hypersonic missile is usually hard to intercept with existing missile defence shields. It travels at a speed of at least Mach 5 -- five times the speed of sound -- and is designed to be manoeuvrable on unpredictable flight paths and fly at low altitudes. The KCNA said the hypersonic glide vehicle atop the new IRBM reached its first peak at a height of 99.8 km and the second at 42.5 km while making a 1,500-km-long flight as scheduled before hitting a designated target point at sea. But the South Korean military dismissed the North's claim as a "deception," saying there was no second peak. "The flight range analysed by South Korea, the US and Japan was around 1,100 km and (the missile) did not reach a second peak," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-un told a regular press briefing, noting the North has a track record of "exaggerating." North Korea also claimed a new compound of carbon fibre was used in manufacturing the engine body of the hypersonic missile, and an unspecified "comprehensive and effective" method was introduced for the flight and guidance control system. Experts said the North appeared to fire the upgraded version this week of a hypersonic missile that it launched in April last year. Pyongyang then claimed the IRBM loaded with a hypersonic glide vehicle flew 1,000 km. The South's JCS then said the missile flew 600 km, calling the North's claims partially "exaggerated," although it said Pyongyang appears to have made some technological progress in its hypersonic weapons program. "As the North has claimed it has acquired technology that is 'by no means easy,' there could be a technical improvement of its own. But it is also hard to exclude the possibility of technical cooperation from Russia," Hong Min, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said. North Korea and Russia have been deepening military cooperation under a mutual defence treaty signed in June, with the North accused of sending more than 11,000 troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine. Hypersonic missiles, nuclear-powered submarines, spy satellites, and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles are among the sophisticated weapons Kim vowed to develop during a key party congress in 2021. At a year-end party meeting, the North's leader said his country would carry out the "toughest" counteraction strategy toward the US and claimed that military cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan has expanded into a "military bloc for aggression." Imagine a world without the ability to hear your favorite song, the sound of your loved ones voice or the chirping of birds in the morning. You would be surprised to know that by 2030, over 50 crore people worldwide might miss out on these pleasures of life due to some form of hearing loss. Due to omnipresent smartphones, constant usage of headphones and continuous exposure to loud sounds, over 100 crore people across the globe face the risk of permanent hearing loss. This is a silent epidemic, one we all are currently ignoring but can totally prevent with the right awareness and care, says Dr. Shree Rao, an award winning ENT specialist and experienced ear surgeon at Dr. Raos ENT Hospitals. One of the most common yet preventable forms of hearing loss is Noise Induced Hearing Loss or NIHL. NIHL is an irreversible condition that is caused due to prolonged exposure to loud noises, causing permanent damage to the delicate hair cells in our inner ear. Unfortunately, NIHL is becoming an increasing risk in India especially among teenagers and the younger working population. Youngsters are at a higher risk as they are constantly hooked to loud music through headphones. In the US, nearly 17% of teenagers are showing signs of NIHL and Indian youth are following in the same footsteps. Along with device usage induced hearing loss, widespread noise pollution is also contributing to the problem. Understanding how sound affects our hearing To fully understand how we can prevent NIHL, we must first understand how sound is processed by our ears. The cochlea is a spiral shaped organ in our inner ear which plays a vital role in hearing. The cochlea contains thousands of tiny hair-like protrusions called stereocilia. When sound waves hit these hair-like structures, they convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain thus allowing us to perceive sound. These hairs are very sensitive and when exposed to loud noises, they can be damaged and in severe cases even destroyed. When exposed to constant loud noise over headphones, the damage is gradual and often goes unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. How much sound is safe for the human ear The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 80 dB (decibels) as an upper limit for safe hearing. For context, 80 dB is equivalent to the noise of a busy street, and hearing experts consider it safe to be exposed for up to eight hours to this level of sound. If the exposure increases above 100 dB, damage can occur in a matter of minutes. Hence ear experts like Dr. Shree Rao, recommend to stay away from high pitched noises like construction sites, concerts, or constant usage of earphones at high volume. In our Indian context, we should be aware of potential exposure to these sources: Traffic: Living in a city, it is inevitable that we get exposed to loud traffic noise. Exposure to constant honking and loud engine noises can cause trauma to the ear resulting in NIHL. Construction noise: With cities bustling with construction activities, we are constantly exposed to construction noises like drilling. Industrial noise: If you are living close to an industrial area or places like an airport, your risk of NIHL goes up significantly. Social events: Concerts, parties and other social events can sometimes reach high decibel levels posing a risk to the attendees. Digital devices: With devices becoming ubiquitous such as earphones, music systems in cars and homes, we expose ourselves to high decibel noise. Impact of NIHL on us and the society NIHL is not just a health hazard but also has significant implications at both an individual and societal level. NIHL can lead to hearing issues such as tinnitus, hyperacusis, hearing fatigue, stress and anxiety, and difficulty in communication. At a societal level, noise induced hearing loss can lead to loss of productivity and also financial loss due to treatment costs. Dr. Shree Rao suggests that though NIHL is irreversible, it is entirely preventable. By adopting healthy listening habits and taking precautions can go a long way in preserving yourself and also minimizing the societal impact. Prevention and safe listening habits The World Health Organization recommends the 60/60 rule, i.e., listen to music at no more than 60% of the maximum volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time. Following such simple thumb rules can go a long way in preventing noise induced hearing loss. A few other helpful tips according to Dr. Shree Rao are as follows: Invest in high quality earphones: This is often overlooked, but high quality earphones provide a better sound quality and also insulation from external noise, thereby reducing the need for higher volume. Consider buying noise cancelling headphones: Noise cancelling headphones block out external noises, thereby protecting you from ambient noises. Explore sound settings on your device: Most modern smartphones provide warnings when you max out on your device volume, be aware of these settings to ensure you do not blast your ears at full volume. A champion of healthy hearing in India Dr. Shree Rao, an award winning ENT surgeon and specialist in hearing loss is dedicated to improving hearing health in India. We take great care of our eyes, nose and other sense organs. But when it comes to ears, we take them for granted without taking the right care! The first step towards improving hearing health is to be aware of the potential damage that can be caused to our ears and be conscious of the noises we subject them to. Treating patients across age groups for various forms of hearing loss, Dr. Shree Rao, sees a rising number of cases due to noise induced hearing loss. She envisions a Healthy Hearing India and is dedicated to raising awareness about NIHL. She advocates prevention and early intervention, promoting safe listening practices particularly among the younger generation. Safeguarding the hearing of our youngsters is key to a brighter and sound future. Hearing is a precious gift, vital for our well-being and connection to the world around us. Noise-induced hearing loss, while a growing concern, is a preventable condition. By understanding the causes, impacts, and prevention strategies, we can take proactive steps to protect our hearing and advocate for a quieter, healthier soundscape for everyone, says Dr. Shree Rao. References: https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/deafness-and-hearing-loss-safe-listening https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/noise-induced-hearing-loss GIGABYTE Technology, internationally renowned for its R&D capabilities and a leading innovator in server and data center solutions, continues to lead technological innovation during this critical period of AI and computing advancement. With its comprehensive AI product portfolio, GIGABYTE will showcase its complete range of AI computing solutions at CES 2025, from data center infrastructure to IoT applications and personal computing, demonstrating how its extensive product line enables digital transformation across all sectors in this AI-driven era. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250101227519/en/ GIGABYTE Demonstrates Omni-AI Capabilities at CES 2025: Comprehensive Computing Solutions from Cloud to Edge (Photo: Business Wire) Powering AI from the Cloud With AI Large Language Models (LLMs) now routinely featuring parameters in the hundreds of billions to trillions, robust training environments (data centers) have become a critical requirement in the AI race. GIGABYTE offers three distinctive solutions for AI infrastructure: 1. AI Super Servers Through strategic partnerships with industry leaders, GIGABYTE consistently leads in bringing the most diverse AI server solutions to market. At CES 2025, the company will showcase AI servers featuring the latest AMD Instinct MI300 series, Intel Gaudi 3 AI accelerators, and NVIDIA HGX, each module is engineered with high-speed interconnects and cache memory for parallel computing demands. 2. Data Center Grade - Rack-Scale Cluster Computing The groundbreaking NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 features a "rack-as-a-GPU" architecture, with each server supporting NVIDIA GB200 Grace Blackwell superchips connected to two NVIDIA B200 Tensor Core GPUs via NVIDIA NVLINK-C2C, delivering 30x the inference performance of equivalent H100 configurations. The new ORv3 compute node complements this offering with NVLink connectivity and direct liquid cooling, achieving 40 TeraFLOPS of FP4 computing performance per node. 3. Advanced Liquid Cooling Solutions GIGABYTE's innovative all-in-one Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC) systems redefine computing efficiency, featuring integrated servers, cold plates, and manifolds for enhanced manageability. This technology significantly improves data center efficiency while maintaining optimal performance and sustainability across servers powered by AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA's latest processors. AI Beyond the Cloud: Edge Computing and Everyday Innovation GIGABYTE extends AI capabilities to the edge with its latest BRIX mini PC series, featuring built-in Neural Processing Units (NPU) and support for advanced AI services including Microsoft Copilot+ and Adobe. The company's industrial computing solutions, powered by NVIDIA Jetson Orin, enable applications from precision automation to intelligent robotics. In the autonomous vehicle sector, GIGABYTE continues advancing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and Telematics technologies, supporting the development of self-driving vehicles and smart transportation systems. AI in Personal Computing GIGABYTE unveiled a series of groundbreaking AI-powered consumer products at CES 2025, including the hero product AI PCs that implement the key feature: GIGABYTEs exclusive AI agent GiMATE, built on advanced LLM technology with intuitive Press and Speak feature, achieving seamless hardware and software control to ensure optimal settings under every scenario. Along with GeForce RTX 50 series graphics cards, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell and AI, upgrade the cooling solutions on top-end models. Meanwhile, the brand-new AMD B850 and Intel B860 series motherboards and OLED monitors debut this time, together with the upgrades in AI TOP local AI training solution. All-In on AI CES gathers global tech leaders to showcase innovation and define AI as the future of computing. At the forefront, GIGABYTE connects cloud data centers, edge computing, and personal devices into a unified ecosystem. President and Chairman Dandy Yehs declaration, GIGABYTE will make AI ubiquitous, highlights the companys unwavering commitment to advancing AI. GIGABYTE continues to push the boundaries of computing performance, optimize system architecture design, and deepen AI applications across all scenarios, driving transformative advancements for a smarter future. Visit GIGABYTEs CES event page. https://www.gigabyte.com/Events/CES View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250101227519/en/ Acquired a fledgling company less than 18 months old for 100 times its initial capital. Acquisition negotiations began just five months after Igneos establishment a highly unusual move. Major shareholder MCC NFT and investment funds like PCT reportedly realized extraordinary returns. The largest shareholder alliance of Korea Zinc - MBK Partners and Young Poong - has called on Chairman Choi Yoon-beom to clarify his connections with the sellers of Igneo Holdings, who reportedly gained profits exceeding 100 times their initial investment during the 2022 acquisition. A representative from MBK Partners said, Korea Zincs acquisition of Igneo Holdings in 2022 was executed at a valuation that defies market norms, granting the sellers extraordinary profits. The absence of thorough due diligence raises significant questions about the rationale for this transaction. Chairman Choi must provide shareholders with a clear explanation of his relationship with the sellers. In 2022, Korea Zinc acquired 100% of Igneo Holdings shares in two phases - July and November - via Pedal Point, a subsidiary established earlier that year. The total acquisition cost exceeded KRW 580 billion (approximately USD 450 million at the time). Based on disclosures, Korea Zinc paid a staggering 50 times Igneos 2021 revenue for the acquisition, despite Igneo reporting negative equity of KRW -1.9 billion at the end of 2021. Igneo was founded as recently as February 2021, making it less than 18 months old at the time of the first acquisition in July 2022. Remarkably, negotiations for the acquisition began just five months after Igneo's establishment, in July 2021, with a non-disclosure agreement. The agreed acquisition price - over 100 times the companys initial capital - was highly unusual for an M&A deal. Igneo's initial capital was approximately $2.75 million (at $27.50 per share). Korea Zinc, however, paid about $300 million for the acquisition of Igneo's existing shares (at per-share prices of $2,466 in July, $2,621 in November, and $2,708.7 for additional shares), far exceeding 100 times the initial capital. For Igneo's founding shareholders, this translated into a return of 100x on their investment within just 18 months. The primary sellers included MCC NFT, Igneos largest shareholder with a 47.5% stake, alongside investment funds such as PCT Igneo Investor LLC (38.2%), Windchime Limited (5%), and The Tarsadia Group LLC (5.7%). For example, PCT Igneo Investor LLC, which invested only USD 1.05 million, realized over USD 101 millionmore than a 100x return within 18 months. MBK Partners and Young Poong have also highlighted concerns about the relationships between MCC NFT, Tarsadia Group, and other investment funds involved. MCC NFTs largest shareholder is reportedly The Tarsadia Group, a U.S.-based entity that began in the hotel industry and later pivoted to investments. Many of the funds investing in Igneo, including PCT Igneo Investor LLC, are managed by individuals affiliated with Tarsadia. Tarsadia itself held a direct 5% stake in Igneo and participated in the acquisition of Igneo's convertible bonds (CBs) three months after its founding. These bonds delivered over 11x returns within just 14 months. Chairman Choi Yoon-beom has denied knowledge of the relationships among the sellers, said an MBK Partners representative. However, such a significant transaction involving hundreds of billions of won cannot proceed without verifying the identities and affiliations of all parties involved. The relationships between MCC NFT, Tarsadia, and the funds they operate, along with the identities of the investors behind these funds, must be disclosed to ensure transparency and protect shareholder interests. This controversy has raised broader concerns about corporate governance and accountability in Korea Zincs decision-making processes, particularly regarding high-stakes acquisitions. # # # View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107568189/en/ CES --Neural Concept, the leading end-to-end 3D AI platform that transforms product development and design with Engineering Intelligence, today announced their partnership with OPmobility, a world-leader in sustainable mobility and a technology partner to OEMs. Neural Concept and OPmobility will unveil a range of AI-driven automotive innovations from their partnership at the OPmobility booth (West Hall) at CES 2025 in Las Vegas (7-10 Jan). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250103385817/en/ End-to-end 3D AI platform Neural Concept and sustainable mobility leader OPmobility partner to bring Engineering Intelligence to complex automotive challenges and EV design (Photo: Business Wire) The partnership with Neural Concept has enabled OPmobility to seamlessly integrate 3D generative AI into its product development process, accelerating automotive innovation, enhancing design robustness and reducing both cost and time to market. Over 70 OEMs and Tier 1 across automotive, consumer electronics, aerospace and microelectronics, including Bosch, LG Electronics, General Electric, and Subaru, rely on Neural Concepts platform to cut end-to-end product development times by up to 75%, accelerate simulations by up to 10x, and enhance multi-physics characteristics like efficiency, safety, acoustics and aerodynamics by up to 30%. Product development teams across OPmobilitys multiple business units now leverage Neural Concepts platform to embed "Engineering Intelligence" into their engineering processes. This integration enables them to deliver advanced design solutions tailored to complex automotive challenges. One example of AI-driven product innovation being showcased by OPmobility at CES 2025 is a novel fuel tank design for pressurized hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) tanks. During vehicle acceleration and deceleration, fuel in conventional fuel tanks moves from side to side, causing unwanted noise. Simulating this complex phenomenon in PHEV fuel tanks previously required approximately 12 hours per design, making rapid design iteration and optimization impossible. Using Neural Concepts 3D AI platform, engineers at OPmobility can now simulate and predict 3D acoustics pressure changes and fluid dynamics in seconds, rather than days. This capability delivers immediate multi-physics insights, speeds up design iterations, and optimizes product development. As a result, OPmobility can minimize noise, and significantly reduce time to market. Pierre Baque, CEO and co-founder at Neural Concept said: Were excited to announce our partnership with OPmobility at CES the worlds premier showcase for product innovation. OPmobility uses Neural Concepts end-to-end 3D generative AI platform to put Engineering Intelligence at the heart of their product innovation, rapidly simulating complex multi-physics attributes and making data-driven design decisions at speed and scale. Integrating AI into all aspects of product design is the new competitive edge for OEMs and Tier 1s, and it is also the key to solving global challenges with safer, more efficient and sustainable products. Neural Concept is an official CES 2025 exhibitor and will be demonstrating forthcoming developments to its platform at its official CES meeting room at The Venetian (Jan 7-10). To request a meeting invite, please contact [email protected]. About Neural Concept Founded in 2018, Neural Concept provides a leading end-to-end platform which places AI at the center of the product development process to revolutionize the way engineers conceptualize, design and validate products. Neural Concepts flagship technology empowers engineering teams with 3D generative engineering, predictive analysis, and collaborative AI workflows, helping world class engineering teams reduce development times by up to 75%, improve product characteristics including efficiency, safety, speed, and aerodynamics, and empower engineers to 10x accelerate their work. The company works with 40% of the largest European and Asian OEMs and 25% of the worlds top 100 tier-1 suppliers. Neural Concept was spun-out from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and is backed by world-renowned investors including Forestay Capital and the D. E. Shaw group. For more information, visit https://www.neuralconcept.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250103385817/en/ Matthew Muller, seen in the Netflix docuseries American Nightmare, was convicted of kidnapping and raping Denise Huskins and has since been charged in new criminal cases. Courtesy of Netflix Matthew Muller, the man who abducted Denise Huskins from Vallejo in 2015 in what became a high profile-case and the subject of a Netflix documentary, faces three new charges in a previously unreported kidnapping in San Ramon, the Contra Costa County District Attorneys Office said. Muller is charged with three felony counts of kidnapping for ransom in connection with the newly revealed San Ramon case, the DAs office said. Muller, 47, is currently serving a 40-year prison sentence in Tucson for the kidnapping and rape of Huskins a case that police originally called a hoax. Last year the case became the subject of American Nightmare, a limited crime series on Netflix. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The San Ramon incident occurred at a home in spring 2015 when, prosecutors said, Muller unlawfully held two men and one woman for ransom, demanding that one of the hostages withdraw tens of thousands of dollars from their bank account in order to secure the release of the others, according to prosecutors. After getting the money Muller fled, according to prosecutors. The incident was revealed last year during correspondence between law enforcement and Muller, in which he confessed to multiple crimes in Northern California, including the 2015 San Ramon kidnapping, prosecutors said. The victims never reported the crime out of fear for retribution and have since chosen to remain anonymous. The trauma of crime can have lasting effects that some people endure for their entire lives whether the crime is reported or not, said Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton in a statement. Muller committed serious offenses throughout Northern California, and my office will be resolute in seeking justice on behalf of the victims in Contra Costa County. Simon O'Connell, Contra Costa County Chief Assistant District Attorney, describes the circumstances that led to Muller's new charges. Ryan Curry The Chronicle Muller is also facing new charges in sexual assault cases that occurred in 2009 in Mountain View and Palo Alto. He was charged with two felony counts of assault with intent to commit rape during a burglary, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office said last month. If convicted of the charges, Muller could face life in prison. The charges came after a new lead and advances in forensic DNA testing connected Muller to the assaults, prosecutors said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Muller broke into Huskins home, which she shared with her boyfriend Aaron Quinn, and drugged them and then tied them up with zip ties and blindfolds on March 23, 2015. After kidnapping Huskins, he took her to a cabin where he raped her twice. He drove Huskins to Southern California two days later, where he set her free. Vallejo police announced that Huskins abduction was an elaborate hoax that she planned with Quinn. They believed Huskins was a Gone Girl, referring to the 2014 film in which a woman stages her own disappearance and her husband becomes a primary suspect. The saga was covered in the Netflix documentary last year. The city of Vallejo ultimately paid Huskins and Quinn $2.5 million for botching the case. A Dublin police detective, Misty Carausu, helped solve the Huskins kidnapping-rape case in 2015 when she was asked to go to South Lake Tahoe as part of an investigation into an unrelated Dublin home invasion. Jordan Parker is a breaking news reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. He graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2022 with a degree in journalism. During his time there, he spent three years as a reporter and editor for the university's award-winning student newspaper, The State Hornet. He spent his senior year of college serving as The Hornet's first Black editor in chief, leading the organization to two Pacemaker awards and several other national honors from the Associated Collegiate Press. When he's not chasing down a story, he likes watching movies, traveling and trying new restaurants. Cartoon Brew invited the filmmakers behind each of this years 15 Oscar-shortlisted animated shorts to share their favorite shot from their film and explain why its special to them. The pieces are being published in the order that materials were received. In this piece, were looking at the Maybe Elephants by Torill Kove. Maybe Elephants is a 2d animated short co-produced by Norwegian studio Mikrofilm and the National Film Board of Canada. In the film, Oscar-winning filmmaker Torill Kove (The Danish Poet) recalls the memories of her childhood in 1970s Kenya. Her happy recollections clash with her mothers attitude, who seems to often fall into a depressive and restless state. Kove recently spoke with Cartoon Brew about the making of this short. Below, she shares her favorite shot from the short and why its significant to her: Maybe Elephants is partly autobiographical and based on memories of my family living in Nairobi in the early 1970s. We came from a small Norwegian town, but Nairobi was a sprawling metropolis, and we had to get used to driving pretty much everywhere. My parents often chauffeured my sisters and me around, and we also had friends with cars, so a lot of my memories from Nairobi are of cars and being a passenger. In this shot, it is nighttime in Nairobi and the parents are driving their teen girls somewhere to meet up with friends. The city lights are flickering, and the parents look slightly concerned while the girls transform from children to young women in the back seat. Coming-of-age is happening right behind the parents backs. I picked this shot because it encapsulates one of the films central themes: the emotional distance that is growing between the parents and the children, even though they are physically so close, like here, in the car. It also illustrates the beginning of detachment: The parents are in the drivers seat for a while, and then, one by one, the kids leave. This was a fun shot to animate. Makeup application typically involves measured repetitive movements. But these girls were in a hurry, and the shot was relatively short, so things had to happen fast. We decided to animate the girls makeup session in a time-lapse style, which added some comedy and created a lot of activity in the back seat a 10-second transformation. Read the other entries in the series: Advertisement Cement dispatches in Peru declined by two per cent YoY to 1.045Mt in November 2024 from 1.063Mt in November 2023, according to the national cement association, ASOCEM. When compared with October 2024, there was an eight per cent drop. Of this total, 0.939Mt were dispatches by its members. Domestic cement production slipped by four per cent YoY and seven per cent MoM to 0.951Mt in November 2024 from 0.988Mt and 1.021Mt, respectively. Clinker production dropped 32 per cent YoY and 10 per cent MoM to 0.574Mt from 0.843Mt and 0.636Mt, respectively. In terms of exports, cement volumes increased by 18 per cent YoY to 13,200t in November 2024 from 11,100t in the year-ago period. When compared with October 2024, exports were up by 13 per cent from 11,600t. However, clinker exports fell by 33 per cent YoY to 71,900t in November 2024 from 107,400t, an unusual high. When compared with October 2024, they surged 101 per cent from 35,800t. Cement imports advanced by 121 per cent YoY to 66,000t in November 2024 from 30,000t in the year-ago period and by 108 per cent YoY from 32,000t in October 2024. Vietnam accounted for 93 per cent of imports in November 2024, importing via the port of Callao. The average CIF price in the port fell by 11 per cent YoY to US$74/t. Chile imported seven per cent of total cement imports, via the land terminal at Tacna, where the average CIF price improved by 19 per cent YoY to US$126/t. Clinker imports surged by 679 per cent to 140,000t in November 2024 when compared with the year-ago period, when clinker imports reached 18,000t. When compared with October 2024, clinker imports were up 223 per cent YoY from 43,000t. Approximately 51 per cent of clinker imports were dispatched from South Korea, while Ecuador exported 31 per cent and Vietnam 18 per cent to Peru. The average CIF price for imports fell 15 per cent YoY to US$57/t at Callao port while at the port of Matarani, the average CIF import price was down eight per cent YoY to US$60/t. Southern California Edison expects to shut off to hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses as extreme fire risk arrives Tuesday, with additional shutoffs from San Diego Gas & Electric. Salgu Wissmath/The Chronicle/The Chronicle Southern California power companies were preparing to shut off electricity for nearly a half-million homes and businesses on Tuesday when extremely dangerous fire weather was expected to hit a tinder-dry region that has gone without any measurable rain since last spring. The National Weather Service warned a strong and damaging Santa Ana windstorm could begin battering the region Tuesday afternoon and last through Wednesday night, raising the risk of falling branches and broken power lines and creating a particularly dangerous situation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Southern California Edison officials said they were preparing to cut power for more than 415,000 households or businesses in six counties, including Riverside, Ventura, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange and Kern counties. That number has crept higher as forecasts became sharper, and as of Monday evening represented about 8% of the utilitys 5 million customers. San Diego Gas and Electric Co. said it was considering cutting power to nearly 65,000 customers. Diane Castro, Southern California Edison spokesperson, said the scale of the potential public safety power shutoffs is one of the largest considered by the company since it began cutting power to prevent wildfires in 2018. The blackout warnings spread from Thousand Oaks on the Ventura County coast to the San Gabriel, Simi and San Fernando valleys south to Murrieta and San Diego County. Winds were also expected to batter Beverly Hills and Hollywood Hills. Called public safety power shutoffs, the tactic is a major tool that Californias big utility companies including Pacific Gas and Electric Co. have used in recent years to prevent wildfires when high winds threaten to snap power lines and ignite fires. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The largest public safety power shutoff so far occurred in 2019 when PG&E cut power to nearly 740,000 homes and businesses in 34 counties, from Humboldt County on the North Coast to Kern County in Southern California. The event was widely criticized for being too widespread and poorly managed, and Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered PG&E to credit $80 million in bill credits to its customers. Tennessee State Parks will hold First Day Hikes on New Years Day, with most of the 59 state parks hosting the events as part of the parks year-long Signature Hikes series.The free guided hikes, led by park rangers, are available for all ages and abilities. The First Day Hikes vary from easy walks to strenuous excursions, and they can be a great way to meet New Years resolutions to be more active. Tennessee State Parks have more than 1,000 miles of trails.Details about the First Day Hikes, listed by park, can be found at the Tennessee State Parks website.Among the many hikes are: A one-mile trek at Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park that features the parks historical significance and views of the Valley of Three Forks on the Wolf River; A sometimes strenuous three-mile hike on the Greeter Trail to the Big Creek Overlook at Savage Gulf State Park; A hike featuring the parks history, indigenous plants and animals, and the unique geography of the area at T.O. Fuller State Park; A three-mile journey of easy to moderate difficulty, with information about birds, wildlife, plants, and trees at the Seven Islands State Birding Park; A hike along the Moonshiners Run Trail at Roan Mountain State Park; and And an invigorating hike through the backcountry of Standing Stone State Park.Hikers are encouraged to wear closed-toed walking shoes and layered clothing. Its a good idea to bring water and snacks.Hikers should also consider making overnight stays at parks with lodges, campsites and cabins. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the First Day Hikes, visitors are reminded that the parks are open 365 days a year.The state parks Signature Hikes are held each year and include First Day Hikes, Spring Hikes, National Trails Day Hikes in June and After-Thanksgiving Hikes. State Representative Dan Howell has proposed legislation to ensure students receive uninterrupted classroom instruction across the Volunteer State.House Bill 41 will require school districts to implement a policy prohibiting the use of personal electronics, including cell phones, tablets, laptops and gaming devices during the school day for K-8 students, and during instruction time for grades nine-12.Tennessee is blessed with exceptional public education, but a quality school can only do so much if a child isnt paying attention in class, Rep.Howell said. While there is a time and a place for cell phones, their usage in the classroom endangers a childs learning environment and development. This bill will improve students' academic outcomes and educational experience by ensuring they have access to uninterrupted instruction time throughout their K-12 career.House Bill 41 authorizes teachers to permit cell phone use for educational reasons. Cell phones would also be permitted for students who require health monitoring and those with disabilities who have unique needs. Districts would be required to establish a process to communicate with parents in the event of an emergency as part of their cell phone policy.Rep. Howell has met with several local educators and district superintendents who have conveyed that student cell phone use during class time is a serious issue.Officials said, "A 2023 study found that 97 percent of 11- to 17-year-olds use their cell phones during the school day. It can take up to 20 minutes for a student to refocus after using a cell phone for non-academic purposes, another study found. At least eight states have restrictions on cell phones in schools."The 114th Tennessee General Assembly convenes Jan. 14 at noon. 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. Matthew Coleman Scottie & Lisa Mayfield Dr. Jason Bell Previous Next Cleveland State Community College announces the 2025 Community First Award winners. Nominations were received from the colleges five-county service area, seeking to honor individuals in three categories. Nominations were judged based on the nominees extraordinary commitment of time, talent or treasure to the community.We are excited to announce the Community First Award winners for 2025. Each in their own way exemplifies the value of putting their community first, said Dr. Andy White, Cleveland State president.This is a unique awards program, and I look forward to recognizing these outstanding individuals in February.The categories and winners are as follows: Alumni of the Year: Matthew Coleman, managing partner, attorney with Logan-Thompson, PC; Don M. Lorton Community Servants of the Year: Scottie & Lisa Mayfield, retired business executives and current owners of White Street Market in Athens; and Educator of the Year: Dr. Jason Bell, secondary supervisor at Polk County Schools.The Community First Awards will be featured at An Evening with Scott Hamilton on Thursday, Feb. 20 in the Wacker Commons of the Partners in Industry and Education (PIE) Center in Cleveland.Presented by the Bank of Cleveland/Builtwell Banking, the event will include a reception, dinner and interview with Olympic Gold medalist, broadcaster and author, Scott Hamilton. Tickets are available through the Cleveland State website, mycs.cc/eveningwith . All proceeds from the event go to the Cleveland State Foundation, which provides support for the college and hundreds of scholarships to students each year.For more information, visit mycs.cc/eveningwith, call 423-614-8700 or email foundation@clevelandstatecc.edu. Author and professional speaker Lakweshia Ewing presented her latest work, Intentional Propositio, at the International Book Bienal in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This event, one of the largest worldwide literary gatherings with over 600,000 in attendance, provides a platform for authors to connect with readers and showcase works that address social and cultural themes. Review for Intentional Propositio: In Intentional Propositio, written in Portuguese, Ms. Ewing offers a powerful exploration into the concept of purpose, encouraging readers to recognize themselves as purpose, created on purpose, for purpose. Through a mix of motivational guidance, faith-based insights and practical wisdom, she challenges readers to shift their focus from seeking purpose to embodying it, understanding that they are designed with intention and destiny. My goal is to empower readers, to help them see that their lives have profound meaning and that they are part of something greater, said Ms. Ewing. The International Book Bienal, held biennially in Sao Paulo, attracts authors, publishers, and readers from across the globe, spotlighting influential voices in literature. Ms. Ewing will be releasing the English companion book, I Did It On Purpose Answering the Call from Destiny, Spring 2025, expanding her message to English-speaking audiences. Californias high speed rail project, as seen in this conceptual rendering, could connect with a private rail system that ends in Las Vegas. California High-Speed Rail Authority California leaders are ready to lay high-speed rail tracks through the Central Valley, and on Monday they signaled where the tracks are headed: south toward Palmdale, to make connections into Las Vegas. When theyll arrive at the Transbay Terminal in downtown San Francisco remains uncertain. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The new map would plug California high-speed rail into a regional network with two other bullet train lines the High Desert Corridor in Los Angeles, and the privately owned Brightline West route from Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga. Officials began promoting the western desert network amid growing uncertainty for Californias bullet-train project, long a subject of derision for Republicans who now have control of Congress. Many, including Vivek Ramaswamy, an advisor to President-elect Donald Trump, have decried the project for delays and skyrocketing costs. Funding for the original idea 463 miles of track from Los Angeles to the Bay Area has for years been in jeopardy. Despite the challenges ahead, Gov. Gavin Newsom struck a sanguine tone as he planned to hammer a symbolic spike into the ground in Kern County Monday afternoon. The first segment, 22 miles from the border of Tulare and Kern counties to Poplar Avenue in Wasco, is the southernmost part of a section from Merced to Bakersfield. Passenger service could start as early as 2030, spokespeople for the governors office said. It wasnt that long ago that you had leaders in the state of California talking about this project, (saying) why the hell are we doing it in the Central Valley? Theres just tumbleweeds in the Central Valley! Newsom said, pushing back against critics during a news conference to celebrate the new railhead. The governor stood alongside other leaders on a gravel path lined with idle construction equipment and workers in mesh vests. Ive never thought of this, fundamentally, as a project thats just about rail, Newsom continued. Its about economic development. Its about creating a sense of place. Its about upzoning around the rail. Its about infrastructure. He touted the jobs generated by the new rail system, the funding California had secured from President Joe Bidens administration, and the role high-speed rail played in the electrification of Caltrain, a third of which was paid for with high-speed rail bonds. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A 2024 strategic state rail plan called for bullet trains to share track with Caltrain from Gilroy to San Francisco, if and when the northern branch gets built. Delivering his own remarks at the news conference, High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri underscored the partnerships with Brightline West and High Desert Corridor. He said the three lines were laying a foundation to revolutionize travel across the southwest region. At a moment when funding and political will are both shaky, the plan to link three rail lines would allow Newsom to leverage the infrastructure California has built with investments that have already been made in other projects. Trump will take over the White House in two weeks, and Democrats have voiced concern about how he will handle existing federal grants for the rail system. Tensions heightened on Monday when Rep. Kevin Kiley, a Republican from Rocklin, introduced legislation to torpedo federal funding for what he called a failed high-speed rail project. Californias high-speed rail project has failed because of political incompetence, and there is no plausible scenario where the cost to federal or state taxpayers can be justified, Kiley said in a news release announcing the bill. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Since its genesis in 1996 the year California lawmakers created the High Speed Rail Authority to design plans for trains to zip between major job centers high-speed rail presented a captivating vision for the future of transportation, even as it hit lawsuits, geological obstacles, turgid bureaucracy, construction delays and ballooning costs. Microtex Composites, Inc. officials announced today the company will expand its presence by locating the companys first U.S. operations in Southeast Tennessee. Microtex Composites will create 26 new jobs and invest nearly $3.8 million in Chattanooga through the project. Based in Italy, the composites manufacturer has experienced rapid growth in its European markets due to increased demand from its customers in the automotive and aerospace industries, officials said. The move to Hamilton County will establish the companys manufacturing presence in the U.S., allowing Microtex Composites continued global growth. Since 2020, TNECD has supported 16 economic development projects in Southeast Tennessee, resulting in more than 2,500 job commitments and approximately $720 million in capital investments, officials said.Tennessee is shaped by the global brands like Microtex Composites that call the Volunteer State home, and I thank this company for placing its trust in our state, our skilled workforce and strong business climate. I welcome Microtex Composites to Tennessee and look forward to seeing the positive impact these new jobs bring to the lives of Tennesseans across Chattanooga and Hamilton County," said Governor Bill Lee.With a market as expansive as Microtex Composites, its vital to have a location that is primed to meet the needs of the business. I believe Chattanoogas proximity to water, interstate and rail make it the ideal location for this company as they enter the U.S. market, said TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter.Opening our new prepreg factory in Chattanooga represents another exciting development of Microtex Composites constant commitment to boost production capacity, ensuring the supply of the best qualitative prepreg level. By using ultimate technologies, we guarantee to our U.S. customers the highest quality levels in the field of dry and prepreg composites supply. Not only are we reinforcing our commitment to support customers, but we have also taken this opportunity to hire high qualified and trained staff whose knowledge and experience will contribute to the growth of Microtex Composites team, said Federico Becagli, president, Microtex Composites, Inc.We are proud to announce the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Tennessee dedicated to reliable, consistent and lead-time shortened prepreg supply. Microtex Composites is expanding its prepreg production thanks to its technological innovation and modern equipment. Our cutting-edge technologies allow us to strengthen our position in the U.S. market as an advanced materials company, and this new factory in Chattanooga is a key step that will strengthen our operational capabilities and our role in the supply chain, said Gianfranco Meschini, vice president, Microtex Composites, Inc.We are happy Microtex Composites has chosen Chattanooga to locate its first manufacturing presence in the U.S. I am confident Hamilton County will provide great economic opportunities for this company, which will also boost our local economy and job market. I appreciate the state and local officials who helped facilitate bringing these new jobs to our community, said Senator Bo Watson.Im thrilled that Microtex Composites has selected Hamilton County as its first location in the United States. This important investment will bring 26 quality jobs to Chattanooga and help boost our local economy. Tennessees business-friendly policies continue to attract excellent companies from home and abroad, and I wish Microtex the best as they begin operations here, said Representative Greg Martin. Just before Christmas, outgoing President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of 37 prisoners on federal death row. Among those no longer facing execution is Rejon Taylor, who committed a premeditated kidnapping that ended the life of Guy Luck, a French restaurateur from the Atlanta area. This violent chain of events started near Atlanta, but ended in Collegedale. The abduction of Mr. Luck wasnt a coincidence. Taylor had stolen from Mr. Luck, and Mr. Luck pressed charges when Taylor was apprehended. When Taylor and his accomplices were released from custody, they burglarized Mr. Lucks house again. During this second burglary, they found paperwork showing Mr. Luck was pursuing charges. Taylor then plotted to abduct Mr. Luck, robbing him and leaving him stranded far from home. When the group made it to Collegedale, Mr. Luck fought his kidnappers. Taylor, driving the van, fired three shots, striking Mr. Luck. His assailants left him and his van abandoned on Spalding Drive, near the Collegedale Greenway. Mr. Luck later died from his injuries. A jury of 12 imposed the death penalty on Rejon Taylor for this heinous kidnapping and murder, a scheme born of greed and retaliation. There is a heavy burden to meet to justify imposing a death sentence, and Taylor certainly earned it. I'm angered, offended and disappointed that President Biden, on his way out the door, would disrespect the memory and family of Guy Luck as well as the decision of the 12 jurors who decided the fate of Mr. Luck's murderer. By commuting Rejon Taylor and the 36 other convicted inmates that were on death row to life imprisonment, the President continues to show the lack of respect that he and his administration have for justice, and a failure to be responsive to those issues which are more important to the American people. As an elected public servant with years of experience in public safety and criminal justice, I have always placed the rule of law first, seconded only by the needs of my fellow residents and the city Im proud to serve. Unlike President Biden, I and my fellow Republicans respect the rule of law, the decisions handed down by juries, and the prudence of our judiciary. Tonya Sadler Vice Mayor of Collegedale Chattanooga is my hometown. I no longer live in the city due to dual property taxation and Mayor Kelly raising property taxes during the height of COVID with no public opposition. Why do voters put up with this behavior, people were in crisis? I just read the proposed amendments to the PILOT property tax exemptions policy set forth by the Chamber of Commerce. What the heck is a non-government entity doing setting property tax policy? The Chamber of Commerce grifts are usually adopted unilaterally by the Hamilton County Commission, so I am paying attention. County Mayor Wamp, you made promises to our community about it raining PILOT property tax exemptions. Please consider the Chamber of Commerce property tax policy that drags all PILOTs with a duration of under 10-years to the dark basement without elected representation review. Today, I am shocked that the City Council would even entertain relinquishing their decision-making authority for exempting a corporations property taxes through PILOT. The City Council was elected to make financial decisions and set policy regarding property taxes, not the Chamber of Commerce. Please local elected representatives reject the Chambers proposed PILOT revisions, and think about the consequence of all PILOTs with less than 10 years duration being decided by a non-government entity. The masters of corporate welfare called the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce are proposing new policy to the PILOT program that literally bestows upon them the authority to exempt any corporation from property taxes up to 10 years without City Council review. That is millions of dollars of lost taxpayer revenue with no elected review This has red flags. The Chamber PILOT policy is really property tax policy with decision making that does not belong with a private entity. Yall, real commerce does not require taxpayer granted welfare. For almost 15-years, the Chamber was gifted 1.2 million annually from the city and county to pay theyre off the charts salaries of around $300k each for management annually. The city and county send our taxpayer dollars to the Chamber to pay salaries that would never be seen in government. So, how convenient, wash off the public funds constraints, and wahoo. The Chamber of Commerce is proposing to increase their authority over property exemptions, as follows: "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. Stated another way, PILOTS under 10 years would never see the light of day, and be approved without City Council review. These blanket property tax exemptions are being issued whether the incentive is needed or not, and only to rich corporations that get the tax exemption on the backs of residential taxpayers. The projects receiving PILOT exemptions would be built with or without a PILOT property tax exemption. A PILOT has never been the decision making component to locating in Hamilton County. It is applied for because the incentive is available. Abolish PILOT and manufacturing and office buildings will still be built. Also, the decades long adverse implications of PILOT and TIF to large cities like Chicago and New York should be reviewed by every elected official in Hamilton County. Over time, PILOT is devastating to municipal budgets. The Chamber of Commerce works hard to justify the taking of public resources, and commonly uses factors to credit themselves with creating manufacturing. Really, the manufacturing projects always include millions of consulting fees for their organization. I get why the Chamber creates projects whether financially viable for the public or not. There is financial reward for their non-governmental agency. Each time a PILOT is approved, the majority of regular people must pay for the corporate recipients share of municipal services. The Chamber proposes a $5 million-dollar minimum threshold for office buildings, and 100 jobs minimum in manufacturing to be eligible for a PILOT. Has anyone noticed that these thresholds ensure that small businesses will be excluded from the PILOT program due to the high thresholds? Local startups and small businesses are always excluded from PILOT. At the same time, small businesses comprise a collective majority in tax revenue from commerce. The locals starting small businesses cannot participate in PILOT under the policy as proposed by this non-governmental entity. This blanket issuance of PILOTs needs the light of day, and be subject to open records. City Council please add an open records provision for PILOT records, and consider who is excluded from participation in PILOT. Finally, the Chamber announces that their policy will disallow the school portion of the municipal property tax from being exempted. Tennessee state law has always prohibited the school portion from being exempted. More Chamber grift, that law has existed for two decades. Why propose rules that already exist. All PILOTs should be reviewed and voted upon by the City Council, 10 years or not. City Council please retain your authority over property tax exemption policy. Years ago, I attempted to review PILOT applications where a properly tax exemption was issued, and the Chamber proudly announced, we are not subject to open records. The Chamber is conducting the city and countys business, and must be subject to open records on the PILOT property tax exemptions. In closing, City Council and Hamilton County government, please do not allow a third party to set property tax policy, and consider small business in the equation for PILOTs, as they more important to the local economy. April Eidson Raising Canes arrives in Hixson Thursday with its first Chattanooga-area location, complete with a grand opening to celebrate its debut. Located at 5435 Highway 153 off Highway 135, the 11th Raising Canes in the Volunteer State is dishing out the brands One Love chicken finger meals. Doors to the new restaurant officially open at 10 a.m. on Thursday with an array of giveaways and celebrations for the community, including: A Lucky 20 drawing to award 20 customers (age 13 and older) Free Canes for a Year. Entries are accepted from 8-9 a.m., with the drawing held shortly after. Customers must be present to win. A commemorative hat and free Box Combo card for the first 100 customers who purchase a Combo. Free Box Combo card valid on return visit. Appearances from representatives of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce. Free coffee and MoonPies for the first 150 Customers. A DJ to entertain the crowd throughout the day. Check presentations to the McKamey Animal Center and the Hixson High Cheerleaders at approximately 9 a.m. Debuting our One Love to this community is an honor and we deeply appreciate the continued support we receive daily from the people of Tennessee, said Matt Bestwina, area leader of restaurants. We are also currently hiring for this location, bringing more jobs and opportunity to the people of Hixson, with competitive wages and an unmatched culture. The new Raising Canes is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to midnight and Friday through Saturday from 10 to 1 a.m., with dine-in service ending at midnight. The 34th Tennessee Sandhill Crane Festival is set for Jan. 18-19 (Saturday-Sunday) at the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge, Cherokee Removal Memorial Park, and Birchwood Community Center. The festival celebrates the thousands of sandhill cranes that migrate through the Hiwassee Refuge during the winter. The event is also an opportunity to focus attention on the rich heritage of the state and the Native American history of the area, officials said.This free event runs 8 a.m.-4 p.m. each day and includes shuttle transportation from the Birchwood Community Center to the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park and the Hiwassee Refuge.Volunteers will be on-hand with spotting scopes that allow for an up close view of wildlife, including sandhill cranes, bald eagles and possibly a glimpse of the endangered whooping cranes which also migrate through the area.The nearby Cherokee Removal Memorial will feature Native American folklore specialists. They will present artifacts and objects used in everyday life by Native American inhabitants in the Hiwassee River area. Visitors can also view cranes and other birds from the overlook where the Hiwassee and Tennessee rivers meet.The Wings to Soar, Live Raptor Show will present two shows each on Saturday and Sunday at the Birchwood Community Center. A childrens craft room and quilt-raffle tickets will be available. There will be several musical performances. Nashville recording artists, Second Nature will entertain at noon, followed by an auction with Cakes by Karen and announcements at 1 p.m. On Sunday, following the official welcome at 10 a.m., Don King of Second Nature will perform solo, to be followed by the Mount LeConte Jug Band, Wings to Soar, Live Raptor Show, raffle and auction with Cakes by Karen.Vendors and educators will also be available at all locations. The cafeteria, which opens at 7 a.m., will be in operation throughout the day with food items for purchase. More information on the festival is available on the TWRA website, TNWildlife.org.Public parking is not available at Hiwassee Refuge. Visitors must park at the Birchwood Community Center and take the shuttle to wildlife viewing areas. The Cherokee Removal Memorial is adjacent to the refuge near the Tennessee River. The Hiwassee Refuge and Cherokee Removal Memorial are open to the public year-round, and visitors are welcome during normal operating hours.Beginning in the early 1990s, the recovering population of eastern sandhill cranes began stopping at the Hiwassee Refuge on their way to and from their wintering grounds in Georgia and Florida. TWRA has been managing the 6,000 acre refuge for more than 60 years for wildlife and waterfowl. It provides sandhill cranes a combination of feeding and shallow water roosting habitat. Many techniques in computational materials science require scientists to identify the right set of parameters that capture the physics of the specific material they are studying. Calculating these parameters from scratch is sometimes possible but costs a lot of time and computational power. Consequently, scientists are always eager to find more efficient ways to estimate them without doing the full calculation. This is the case for Koopmans functionals, a promising approach to expand the power of density-functional theory so that it can be used to predict the spectral properties of materials (such as what frequencies of light a material absorbs), and not just their ground state (such as the optimal positions of the atoms in that material). The accuracy of Koopmans functionals relies on finding the right screening parameters for the system one is studying. You can interpret the screening parameters as the degree to which the rest of the electrons in a system react to the addition or removal of an electron explains Edward Linscott, a postdoc at the Center for Scientific Computing, Theory and Data of the Paul Scherrer Institute, and member of MARVEL. The term screening refers to the fact that the other electrons obscure or in other words, screen the addition of the new electron to someone who is watching the system from the outside. Linscott continues: And this electronic screening the process of adding or removing an electron from the system is precisely the physical process that we are interested in when we talk about spectral properties. For example, in solar cells by shining light on a photovoltaic material we eject electrons from it and generate an electrical current. Density-functional theory is very bad at describing processes such as these, andhe screening parameters tell us the degree to which a DFT approximation is failing us, and the strength of the correction we need to apply in order to correctly redeem the situation, says Linscott. The downside of Koopmans functionals calculations is that they take a lot longer than their DFT counterparts, mostly because of the cost of having to calculate the screening parameters . But a new paper in npj Computational Materials shows that even a simple machine learning model, trained with a modest amount of data, can significantly reduce the time needed for calculating screening parameters in the Koopmans algorithm. The article is by Yannick Schubert from the University of Zurich who started the project as his masters thesis Sandra Luber (Yannicks PhD supervisor at UZH), MARVELs director Nicola Marzari, and Linscott himself. The authors chose two specific materials for their study: liquid water, and the halide perovskite CsSnI 3 . They represent the kind of systems for which we thought we could make the most out of machine learning explains Linscott. Liquid water is naturally disordered and is out of the comfort zone for us scientists used to dealing with pristine crystals. Meanwhile, the halide perovskite is a promising material for use in solar cells, for which it is important to calculate how the changes with temperature. To model the spectral properties of these systems with Koopmans functionals would require calculations on many copies of the same chemical system with different atomic positions. This process can be made much faster by training a machine learning model on a subset of these copies, and then using this model to predict the screening parameters for the remaining copies. When the researchers set out, the question was: what kind of machine learning model would work, among the many options offered by the field? It turned out that a simple model, called ridge regression, would do. We had a roadmap of increasingly sophisticated networks that we were going to try, and we did not know from the start if it was going to work or if we were going to be able to generate enough data says Linscott. To our surprise, the simplest model with very little data worked well. The model we ended up with is nothing like the sophisticated machine learning models that are all around us these days, but it was enough to accurately calculate screening parameters. While the network itself is simple, the scientists attribute this in part to the careful work they put into the construction of the descriptors, which are mathematical objects that must encapsulate the relevant physics of the system and are fed into the machine learning model. From crested ibises to pandas, China lights conservation path 08:31, January 07, 2025 By Yan Dongjie ( China Daily Tourists take photos of giant panda Ru Yi at the Moscow Zoo in Moscow on July 31. (Cao Yang/Xinhua) As a country rich in wildlife species, China has provided significant support for biodiversity conservation and promoting global ecological development, officials and experts said. "China emphasizes the construction of ecological civilization, and has made joint efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind strengthening wildlife protection and international cooperation that is crucial to that process," said Wang Weisheng, director of the flora and fauna department at the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. Wang said China's restoration of the once nearly extinct crested ibis population is a "successful model for saving endangered species worldwide". In recent decades, by providing genetic resources and technical guidance, China has supported Japan and South Korea in restoring crested ibis populations in the wild. Crested ibises were once widely distributed across East Asia, but were believed to have disappeared from the Korean Peninsula, Japan, and other areas by the 20th century. In 1981, wildlife experts discovered seven crested ibises in the Qinling Mountains in Northwest China's Shaanxi province. China later gifted several of the birds to Japan and South Korea to assist in saving their populations. A tourist wears her self-made T-shirt with patterns of the panda pair at the San Diego Zoo on Aug 8. (Zeng Hui/Xinhua) The known global crested ibis population now exceeds 10,000, and all are believed to be descendants of the seven found in the Qinling Mountains, according to the management bureau of the Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve. Through collaborative breeding and research efforts with China, Japan's crested ibis population has reached 693. The Japanese Ministry of the Environment has downgraded the crested ibis' status on the country's Red List of Endangered Species from "extinct in the wild" to "critically endangered". In South Korea, more than 500 crested ibises have been bred at a center. More importantly, the birds have been reintroduced into the wild in all three countries, the forestry and grassland administration said. Wang said China has also helped with the recovery of the Gobi bear population. In August, researchers from the Chinese Academy of Forestry said they had recently spotted a Gobi bear in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, marking the first recorded sighting of the endangered species in China. In 2018, China and Mongolia signed an agreement on the implementation of a technical assistance project to save the Gobi bears and improve their range. Through six years of continuous monitoring and protection efforts, the Gobi bear population has grown from 20 to exceeding 50, said a member of the research team. For 12 years, China has also organized wildlife protection and compliance training courses and workshops for wildlife conservation officers in developing countries in Asia and Africa to enhance their protection capabilities, he said. However, among all these international wildlife protection efforts, the most fruitful and globally recognized is the conservation and breeding of giant pandas. A crested ibis is released into the wild at the Upo Crested Ibis Restoration Center in Changnyeong, South Korea, on May 10. Changnyeong has taken more protective measures in its rural areas where these birds live. (Photo/Xinhua) Envoy of friendship Giant pandas Xing Qiu and Yi Lan departed Sichuan province for South Australia on Dec 14, taking the total number of giant pandas sent overseas last year to 10. The pair replaced Wang Wang and Fu Ni, who were sent home in November after arriving at the Adelaide Zoo in late 2009. Since 1994, China has engaged in giant panda conservation research cooperation with 26 institutions in 20 countries, with 71 cubs born overseas. At present, 44 giant pandas are residing abroad, including 15 countries such as the United States, Japan, and Spain. As a symbol of friendship, the national animal receives a lot of love from people all around the world. "From young to old, everyone who visits our Bamboo Forest falls in love with Wang Wang and Fu Ni," said Zoos SA (South Australia) chief executive Elaine Bensted in 2019, when announcing the pair of pandas were to stay in Australia for another five years. "They are always a delight to watch, whether they're exploring their habitat, laying in the sun, climbing trees, or eating bamboo." According to cooperation agreements signed by China and other countries, giant pandas usually stay overseas for 10 years. Cubs born during that period are returned to China before the age of 4. Wang Wang and Fu Ni were the first giant pandas to reside in the Southern Hemisphere. "We look forward to continuing to help giant panda conservation and gain a better understanding of pandas living in the Southern Hemisphere," said Phil Ainsley, then director of life sciences at Adelaide Zoo, adding that the agreement offered an opportunity to contribute to global panda research. Giant pandas, an endemic species in China, are revered as a national treasure. In 2016, the International Union for Conservation of Nature revised the status of giant pandas from "endangered" to "vulnerable", highlighting the achievements of China's conservation efforts. The wild population of giant pandas in China has significantly increased over the past 40 years, growing from around 1,100 in the 1980s to approximately 1,900 today. The global captive population of giant pandas has now reached 757, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. "We look forward to new rounds of international cooperation between China and other countries for giant panda conservation, which will further expand the scientific research achievements in the protection of giant pandas and other endangered species, and promote people-to-people connectivity and friendly exchanges," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in February. Since the 1990s, China has engaged in exchanges with 20 countries on giant panda conservation, playing a unique and positive role in promoting friendly interactions among people and spreading China's concept of ecological civilization, said Wang Weisheng, director of the department of wildlife conservation at the administration. "For over 20 years, we have cooperated with these countries to tackle a series of technical challenges in giant panda conservation, breeding, disease prevention and control, and reintroduction into the wild, providing strong support for the protection of giant pandas and other wildlife in their natural habitats," he said. "This has become a model for international cooperation in the conservation of endangered wildlife." Xin Bao plays at her new home at the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, California, the United States, in July. Giant pandas Xin Bao and Yun Chuan arrived at the San Diego Zoo from China in June. (Photo/Xinhua) Captive breeding advances One of the most significant achievements was the breakthrough at the beginning of this century in addressing the three major challenges of captive giant panda breeding estrus, mating, and cub survival. "This breakthrough significantly improved the reproductive capacity and quality of the captive giant panda population. Now, 75 percent of breeding-age female giant pandas and half of breeding-age male giant pandas have produced offspring," said Li Desheng, an expert at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda based in Sichuan. The focus of the next round of cooperation will be prevention and control of major diseases affecting giant pandas, protection of habitats, enhancement of survey and monitoring capabilities, and support for the establishment of the China Giant Panda National Park, according to the China Wildlife Conservation Association. Affected by the pandemic, the international transfer and return of giant pandas have seen delays in recent years. The year 2024, however, has seen a very active international movement of pandas. More than 20 giant pandas have returned to China after concluding their stays overseas, while 10 giant pandas have embarked on new lives overseas. In April, Jin Xi and Zhu Yu moved to the Madrid Zoo in Spain after a family of five giant pandas returned from there to China in February. Spain was one of the earliest countries to establish a connection with giant pandas. As early as 1978, King Juan Carlos I made his first state visit to China, during which China gifted Spain a pair of giant pandas, Shao Shao and Qiang Qiang. In 1982, Shao Shao gave birth to a cub named Zhu Lin, causing a sensation across Europe. In 2007, the two countries signed an agreement on an international cooperation project for giant panda conservation and research. Over the past 17 years, the two countries have collaborated to breed six giant panda cubs, making Spain the most prolific country in Europe in terms of international cooperation in giant panda breeding. Last year, two pairs of giant pandas embarked on their journeys to the US. One pair was sent to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington DC and the other to the San Diego Zoo in California. In November 2023, President Xi Jinping, while addressing a welcome banquet jointly hosted by friendly communities in San Francisco, said that pandas have long been envoys of friendship between the Chinese and US peoples. China is ready to continue with cooperation with the US on panda protection, he said. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) The University of California grew this fall by nearly 4,000 students including more Black, Latino and Native undergraduates and enrolled a record number of California-resident undergraduates. The flagship UC Berkeley campus saw enrollment creep up. Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle 2020 The University of California is doing a booming business, growing this fall by nearly 4,000 students including more Black, Latino and Native undergraduates and enrolling a record number of California-resident undergraduates, UC reported Tuesday. UC Berkeley, one of the hardest campuses to get into, crept up by just 183 students, to 45,882. But the new enrollment report also shows that the university systems flagship campus has grown by more than 8%, or 3,555 students, since 2020. Neighbors have complained about the growth, and many students have trouble finding a place to live. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Overall, the number of students attending UC campuses at every level stands at 299,407, an increase of 1.3%, or 3,834 more than the year before. The number of Californians entering UC as first-year students actually ran slightly counter to the trend, shrinking by 158 students, or less than half a percent, to 41,950. But UC still managed to enroll a record number of California undergraduates this fall when transfers were included: 60,644 in all, up 1.1%. These enrollment figures reflect the states investment in California students and the dedication of our staff, faculty and campus leaders to providing a world-class education, UC President Michael Drake said in a statement. UCs popularity with students is especially noteworthy because it comes as many California State University campuses have struggled with flat or declining enrollment. Although overall numbers at CSU are up by 1.5% this fall, to 461,612, at least eight of the 23 CSU campuses are losing students, including the Bay Areas Cal State East Bay, Sonoma State, Cal Maritime and San Francisco State, which declared a fiscal emergency last month after losing 25% of its enrollment over the past five years. Tolani Britton, a UC Berkeley professor of education, suspects the universities differing fortunes have to do with incentives that encouraged UC campuses in recent years to enroll more California residents including more transfer students and because more UC campuses are aiming to become Hispanic-Serving Institutions, which are eligible for certain federal grants. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As a result, Britton said, students who might not have gotten access to these schools are now getting in, and are choosing them over CSU. Britton also cited a sort of multiplier effect: As more California students get into the prestigious UC system, they tell their friends its possible, and more apply. Students talk to each other, Britton said. Defying UCs growth trend are nonresident students, whose numbers declined by nearly 3% this fall, to 37,352. About a decade ago, UCs strategy was to recruit nonresident students because they pay far more tuition than in-state students. This year, for example, nonresidents are paying a base tuition of $50,328 more than three times the $14,934 paid by California residents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But parents, taxpayers and other UC watchers strongly objected, arguing that UC should mainly be accessible to California residents. In 2022, Gov. Newsom signed a four-year compact with UC to incentivize a range of outcomes, including pulling back on the number of nonresident undergraduates. Our efforts are guided by the universitys compact with the governor, said Han Mi Yoon-Wu, UCs associate vice provost for undergraduate admissions. The new enrollment report contains a rich array of data sure to please any UC-watcher. For all 10 campuses and systemwide, the reports offers statistics on students gender identity, country of origin, where their parents attended college, sexual orientation and eligibility for federal Pell Grants. Here is a sampling of findings: Advertisement Article continues below this ad Home News Albanian Orthodox Church leader in critical condition, hospitalized in Greece The 95-year-old head of the Albanian Orthodox Church, who is known for his involvement in the ecumenical movement, has been hospitalized in Greece and is reportedly in critical condition. Archbishop Anastasios was airlifted to an Athens hospital last Friday after contracting what Orthodox officials labeled a "seasonal virus," reported Agence France-Presse on Sunday. "His Beatitude's condition is assessed as critical by the attending physicians," stated a medical report from Evangelismos Hospital in Athens, as quoted by AFP, which cited Greek public television ERT as reporting the archbishop experienced gastric bleeding. 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 Since being hospitalized in Athens, Archbishop Anastasios has received multiple prominent guests, including Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and all Greece; Kyriakos Pierrakakis, Greece's minister of education and religious affairs; and Sokratis Famellos, leader of the Greek left-wing political party Syriza. "The purpose of our visit was to receive updates on the Archbishop's health, express our love, and share our hope for his recovery. We also wanted to extend our support to the medical and healthcare staff," stated Famellos, as quoted by The Orthodox Times. Anastasios was initially hospitalized in Tirana, Albania, for his viral illness on Dec. 30 before being transferred to Evangelismos. He was previously hospitalized in November 2020 for nearly two weeks with COVID-19. Anastasios has been the leader of the Albanian Orthodox Church for over three decades and is credited with helping to revive the denomination within the Muslim-majority Eastern European nation. The archbishop has also been involved in ecumenical efforts, going at least as far back as the World Conference on Mission and Evangelism held in Mexico City, Mexico in 1961. In August 2022, World Council of Churches Acting General Secretary Ioan Sauca sent the archbishop a letter congratulating him on marking 30 years as head of the Albanian Church. "We join our Orthodox sisters and brothers in Albania and all around the word, and we give thanks for You, Beatitude, as you celebrate this year thirty years of both struggle and joy, despair and hope, tribulations and great achievements in leading the Church of Christ in Albania," wrote Sauca. "We give thanks to God, Beatitude, for all your efforts during three decades to bring the Orthodox Church of Albania from darkness to the light of Christ; from death to resurrection in Christ; from total destruction to an exemplary growth in Christ." Home News Elon Musk says UK PM Keir Starmer complicit in grooming gangs scandal Elon Musk has publicly accused British Prime Minister Keir Starmer of being complicit in grooming gangs that systematically targeted vulnerable girls. He also condemned Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips for rejecting calls to hold a national inquiry, describing her as a rape genocide apologist. Musks claims emerged after he posted multiple messages on his social media platform, X, suggesting that Starmer failed to act against perpetrators who groomed and abused children when he served as director of public prosecutions. He pointed to past cases in Rochdale and Oldham, where some of the perpetrators eventually convicted. According to statements Musk shared, he believes Starmer allowed systemic failures to persist despite being in a position of authority. 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 Starmer is scheduled to address these accusations during a press conference Monday, where he plans to discuss his approach to tackling NHS waiting lists, according to The Times. Labour Party sources say he intends to describe the steps he took to change prosecution standards, referring to reforms introduced in 2013 to handle child abuse cases more effectively, including forming a national network of specialist prosecutors and lowering the threshold for revisiting dropped cases. Critics in the Conservative Party, however, maintain that a public inquiry is still needed to examine the actions or inactions of the Crown Prosecution Service in reports related to child sexual exploitation during Starmers tenure. Phillips, who has also been singled out by Musk, was criticized for advising a local council that it should launch its own inquiry rather than wait for a national investigation into historical child sexual abuse in Oldham. Musk contends her stance is an attempt to conceal or minimize the scale of the issue, but government officials have defended her record. Meanwhile, an X user, who identifies himself as The Composite Guy, posted a list of Muslim grooming gangs that have been found in over 50 cities and towns in the U.K. Wes Streeting, the health secretary, refuted the allegations against Starmer and Phillips on national television, as reported by The Times of India. He called Musks statements a disgraceful smear of individuals who spent their careers prosecuting abusers and supporting survivors. Streeting added that Musks position fails to account for the wider context of investigations carried out since Starmers leadership of the Crown Prosecution Service ended. The health secretary invited Musk to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address online threats, suggesting that a major social media platform could help detect and prevent grooming. Conservative politicians have also weighed in. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, expressed disapproval of Musks language about Phillips but agreed that the issue of grooming gangs deserves continued attention. Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, defended Musks right to question public figures, stating that such confrontations are not unusual in political discourse. However, within hours of defending Farage, Musk declared that Farage was no longer fit to lead Reform UK. The revelations were originally brought to light by a 2011 Times investigation into organized sexual exploitation in towns across northern England. It exposed reluctance among child protection authorities to tackle offending due to fears of triggering racial tensions, as many perpetrators were of Pakistani origin. In Rotherham alone, at least 1,400 children were abused between 1997 and 2013, according to the 2014 Jay report. Subsequent probes in Rochdale, Derbyshire and other areas revealed a pattern of systematic failures, sometimes involving local law enforcement and social services. Meanwhile, Labour declined to launch a public inquiry into historical sexual abuse by gangs in Oldham last week, maintaining that this decision should be made by the local council, The Telegraph reported. Around the same time, the Home Office came under pressure from former Home Secretary Suella Braverman to adopt a zero tolerance approach to the deportation of foreign offenders convicted of child sex crimes, including those involved in widely reported cases. One offender, Qari Abdul Rauf, was among nine men found guilty in 2012 of sex offences against vulnerable girls in Rochdale. He was sentenced to six years in prison, released after about half his term, and ordered to be deported by then Home Secretary Theresa May. However, he remained in Rochdale as of 2024, with reports suggesting Pakistan refused to accept him. Starmer, who was DPP between 2008 and 2013, claimed in previous interviews that he supported measures to pursue charges against grooming gangs. Nazir Afzal, then chief crown prosecutor for northwest England, recalled that Starmer quickly endorsed a process to examine cases that had been dropped, leading to convictions of several offenders in Rochdale and Oldham. However, detractors point to a specific case in 2009 where a teenage girls complaint was set aside due to questions about her credibility, allowing alleged abusers to continue. Starmers office maintains that this case never reached him at the time. Home News Ex-CIA officer recalls struggling to live out his faith, losing 'moral compass' A former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer says being a follower of Christ isnt easy while working in an environment that involves deception. Shipp, an author and CIA veteran who served for 17 years in various roles at the agency, shared his journey and the moral dilemmas he faced in an interview with podcaster Candace Owens in November. He said it all began with a simple yet profound question that changed the course of his life during his interview at CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia, where he was interviewed by what he described as a chain-smoking silver-haired CIA official. 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 Hes just chain-smoking away, and he goes, Kevin, have a seat, so I sit in the chair and of course, I sunk down, you know, and so his desk is way up here, I'm like, OK, I know what's going on here, he said. When the official asked Shipp if he had ever broken the law, Shipp said, I'd become a Christian at that point, so I tried to tell the truth the best I could. I said, Yes sir, I have. He goes, Why don't you tell me about it? After joining the agency, Shipp advanced through the ranks. His work in counterterrorism led him to more morally complex situations as he began collecting human intelligence in the field, which, he said, at times included drinking with the enemy. What that does to your moral compass is just not good, said Shipp, adding that while he was still a Christian during that time, he would consider himself backslid. My job was to steal, to lie, to drink with the foreigners, and I would take mental notes as I was extracting information, he explained. One of the pivotal moments in Shipps career occurred while he was stationed on the border of the Soviet Union. While shopping at a mall, a woman approached him and asked, "Would you like to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ?" Initially, Shipp rebuffed her, but as he walked away, he had a moment of profound reflection. I was like, My God, what has happened to me, you know? I went back to the hotel room, I was like, I can't do this anymore, he said, recalling the inner turmoil that led him to re-evaluate his role in the CIA. The wake-up call ultimately led Shipp to make the difficult decision to leave the agency. Despite being offered a lucrative opportunity to continue his work, Shipp declined, saying, Sir, thank you so much for the offer, but Im not interested. Im going to have to turn it down. Shipp, whose books include Twilight of the Shadow Government: How Transparency Will Kill the Deep State, said despite the challenges of working in the intelligence field, his faith was tested long before he joined the CIA. He told Owens that when he was 26, he experienced a medical crisis that nearly took his life. Both of his kidneys had failed, and doctors gave him just six weeks to live. His mother, despite being an agnostic, reached out to a prayer group led by Sue Barton, a woman who believed in the power of prayer. She had a prayer group, and that little prayer group of ladies believed that God still heals from the Bible, he recalled. And so, they prayed and prayed and prayed. [...] I was in there for 30 days at that point, and I was their poster child cause I wasn't supposed to make it. Shipp says after about a month, all of a sudden I started just feeling healthy for the first time in a long time [] after that, I knew something really remarkable had happened. Shipp first made headlines back in 2011 after he claimed that the CIA abused the State Secrets Privilege doctrine in a cover-up after he and his family were relocated to a home a decade earlier at Camp Stanley just north of San Antonio. The post, which included a secret CIA facility, was located in an area where drinking water was polluted with toxic chemicals, according to the New York Times. The case was later dismissed after attorneys convinced a judge that hearing the case could jeopardize national security, the Times reported. Home News Family burned alive in Muslim mob attack for following Christ: 'Blasphemed the name of Allah' NAIROBI, Kenya A Muslim couple and their adult son who received Christ in November were burned to death on Dec. 26 in eastern Uganda, sources said. In the Budini Nyanza area of Kaliro town, Kaliro District, 64-year-old Kaiga Muhammad, his wife, Sawuya Kaiga, and their son, Swagga Amuza Kaiga, 26, had put their faith in Christ on Nov. 22, 2024, when members of an undisclosed church visited their home and shared the Gospel. The pastor of the church, undisclosed for security reasons, said that after the three family members received Christs salvation, they requested prayer for Swagga Amuza Kaiga, who was suffering from malaria. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe We prayed for the son, and immediately he was restored to good health, the pastor claimed in an interview with Morning Star News. The three members of the family who gave their lives to Christ decided to keep their faith secret for fear of Muslims of the area, since Muhammad himself was a committee member in one of the mosques in Budini Nyanza zone. On Dec. 15, area Muslims noted Muhammad leaving the churchs worship service in a nearby village and informed area chairperson Wangule Abudu. The chairperson on Dec. 16 went to Muhammads home to question him, and Muhammad openly told him that he and other family members had given their lives to Christ, the pastor said. The angry Abudu gave Muhammad one week to renounce Christianity, saying that if he refused, he would mobilize the Muslim community against the family, according to a relative who was away when the parents and son accepted Christ. Abudu said that our family had blasphemed the name of Allah and embarrassed the Muslim community, the family member, whose name is withheld for security reasons, told Morning Star News. Area Muslims on Dec. 26 set the familys house ablaze with gas and burned the three members of the family beyond recognition, said a neighbor who had arrived with others too late to save them and the structure. Kaliro police arrived after the lives had been lost and, after investigating, arrested Wangule Abudu, 62, and Ismail Njagi, 20. The two Muslims were being kept at Kaliro central police station on charges of murder and arson, sources said. The bodies of the deceased were taken to Bumanya Heath Centre for postmortem. The attack was the latest of many instances of persecution of Christians in Uganda that Morning Star News has documented. Ugandas Constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another. Muslims make up no more than 12% of Ugandas population, with high concentrations in eastern areas of the country. The article was originally published at Morning Star News 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. Home News 'Red flag': New Jersey no longer requiring teachers to pass basic skills test for reading, math Aspiring educators in New Jersey are no longer required to pass a basic skills test for reading, writing and math due to a new law intended to address the state's teacher shortage by lowering the requirements for certification. New Jersey's Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed Act 1669 in June, with the law taking effect on New Year's Day. As a result, individuals seeking an instructional certification no longer need to pass the Praxis Core Test administered by the state's Commissioner of Education. According to the law, "the State Board of Education shall not require a candidate seeking a certificate of eligibility, a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing, a provisional certificate, or a standard instructional certificate to complete a Commissioner of Education-approved test of basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills including, but not limited to, the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test, in order to obtain a certificate of eligibility, a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing, a provisional certificate, or a standard instructional certificate." 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 bill eliminates the basic skills test, New Jersey will still require teachers to hold a bachelor's degree and pass specialized tests within their subject areas. Erika Sanzi, the director of outreach for Parents Defending Education, a national organization that advocates for parents to have a voice regarding what their children learn, told The Christian Post that New Jersey eliminated a "very low rigor test." The test's purpose, Sanzi added, is to screen out teachers who lack "basic competency in reading, writing and math." "It is a major red flag that so many aspiring teachers fail that test and it is indefensible that the teachers' union and state legislature decided that the solution to that problem was to eliminate the test altogether," Sanzi continued. "This decision to lower the most basic standards does not bode well for students but is a win for the unions. Just bad all around." The change also drew criticism from Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who commented in a Sunday X post. "So teachers don't need to know how to read in New Jersey?" He asked. "Seems like that would make it challenging to teach kids how to read." The New Jersey Department of Education did not immediately respond to CP's request for comment about the law. In a statement to CP, a spokesperson for the New Jersey Education Association, the state's largest teachers union, stated that to become a teacher "candidates must complete extensive college coursework, graduate from an accredited teacher preparation program with at least a 3.0 GPA, successfully complete months of classroom teaching experience and pass a rigorous PRAXIS subject area test based on their particular area of certification." "The additional requirement to pass the PRAXIS Basic Skills test did nothing to elevate standards and amounted to a corporate money grab from the pockets of successful college graduates trying to enter the teaching profession," the statement reads. "New Jersey has among the best public schools in America because we have talented, dedicated and successful teachers." Citing the bipartisan support the bill received, the NJEA spokesperson further stated activists who reside in other states, such as Sanzi, don't "understand New Jerseys very rigorous teacher certification standards or the consensus of New Jersey education policy experts and stakeholders around this uncontroversial change." Act 1669 cleared the state Senate in a 34-2 vote in May 2024, with Democratic Sen. Jim Beach, who sponsored the bill, highlighting the need for more teachers. "This is the best way to get them," Beach said at the time. The law's passage in the state Senate came after New Jersey's governor signed Bill S1553 in November 2023. The measure allows teacher candidates who didn't take the Praxis test to obtain an alternative teaching certificate. At the time, the NJEA celebrated Murphy's signing of the bill. "At a time of acute educator shortages across the state, qualified candidates who have earned an accredited degree and successfully completed their student teaching should not be barred from our classrooms on the basis of a one-off standardized test that cannot effectively measure the knowledge or skills needed to be a great teacher," NJEA officials said in a statement. New Jersey is not the only state that has attempted to address a shortage of teachers by changing its standards for educators, as a 2022 Gallup survey found that K-12 teachers have one of the highest burnout rates compared to other industries. Some states also changed their standards for teachers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in various states seeking alternative ways to educate children. For example, in 2021, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the TK-12 Education Trailer Bill (AB 130). The bill eliminated two different exams for aspiring teachers so long as they could demonstrate basic skills and knowledge of the subject matter they intended to teach. In 2022, Arizona passed a law that allowed aspiring educators to teach in the classroom while they are in the process of obtaining a degree. Such changes have come as the congressionally mandated National Assessment of Educational Progress has shown dramatic declines in students' math and reading levels. Home News Passion 2025: Levi Lusko warns against chasing the world's 'empty successes' Fresh Life Church Pastor Levi Lusko reminded thousands of young adults gathered in Atlanta for Passion 2025 that worldly success, no matter how grand, pales in comparison to the eternal treasure found in surrendering one's life to Christ. The 43-year-old author delivered the annual conference's opening message on Monday evening following a time of worship led by Kristian Stanfill. Launched in 1995, the Passion Conference is geared toward 18-25-year-olds and is held annually at the start of the year. "Grab your seats and grab your Bibles," Lusko began, directing the crowd to Matthew 13:44. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe He opened with the story of Alexander the Great, a figure whose exploits epitomized the zenith of worldly ambition. "At the age of 32, at the absolute height of his success, Alexander the Great wept," Lusko said, setting the stage for a lesson on the fleeting nature of human achievement. Lusko chronicled Alexander's meteoric rise, from becoming the king of Macedon at 20 to conquering the Persian Empire and assuming the titles "King of Kings" and "Son of God" by his late 20s. By 32, he ruled an empire spanning 2 million square miles. Lusko described how Alexander's life intersected with biblical prophecy. "Three hundred years before he was born, the book of Daniel predicted his coming," Lusko said, referencing visions in Daniel 2, 8 and 11 that some scholars believe symbolized Alexander's conquests. Yet, for all his success, Alexander's life ended in despair, as his kingdom was divided and his heirs were murdered after his untimely death. "This is a cautionary tale for all of us," Lusko emphasized. "You can conquer the world, but if your identity is rooted in anything other than God, it will leave you empty." Lusko said Alexander's tears are evidence of this emptiness. "He wept because he realized that there were infinite worlds, and he could only rule one. He also wept in remorse after killing a close friend in a fit of rage. Despite having everything, Alexander was deeply dissatisfied." The Through the Eyes of a Lion author transitioned to a more intimate reflection, sharing his own experience with a midlife crisis in his late 30s. "I felt like I was coming unglued," he shared, describing sleepless nights, panic attacks and a loss of motivation. "I didn't want to call it a midlife crisis because it felt so cliche. But the truth is, I was grappling with the same questions Alexander faced: What's next? What's my purpose? What do I do with the life I have left?" He encouraged the audience to embrace such struggles as opportunities for growth. "Be kind to yourself," he said. "You've never been here before. The wilderness seasons in our lives are often God's way of preparing us for something greater." Lusko credited his breakthrough to the parable in Matthew 13:44, where Jesus likens the Kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure worth sacrificing everything to obtain. "This passage became my anchor," he said. "It reminded me that life is not about accumulating achievements or possessions, but about continually surrendering everything to Christ to uncover the treasures of His Kingdom." Lusko warned the young adults against finding their identity in anything that can be taken away. "Whether it's your job, your success, your relationships, or even your ministry if your sense of self is tied to something temporary, it's vulnerable," he said. Reflecting on his own life, he shared, "I didn't realize how much of my identity was wrapped up in being 'the young pastor.' But I'm not young anymore, and one day, I won't even be a pastor. What then?" The solution, Lusko said, is to root one's identity in Christ. "When you anchor yourself in what can never be taken away the love of God, the hope of the Gospel you are unshakable." Offering a practical framework, Lusko outlined life's three phases: building a container, filling it with what matters and eventually giving it away. He illustrated this with the story of his father, who passed away in 2024 after a battle with cancer. "My dad dedicated his life to building a container through his career in radio, filling it with family and service, and finally giving it all away for the glory of God," Lusko said, recounting how his father continued to serve others and worship God even in his final days. "This is the rhythm of a life well-lived," Lusko said. "But the enemy wants to distract you. He'll tempt you to skip the first phase, rushing to fill your life with empty successes. Or he'll convince you to hoard what you've built, never giving it away for the Kingdom." Lusko's message culminated in a challenge to embrace daily surrender. "It's not enough to go all-in for Jesus once," he said. "Every day, we must deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Him. Every day, we must return to the field, dig deeper and discover more treasure." He urged attendees to see their struggles as opportunities to deepen their dependence on God. "Alexander should have kept reading," Lusko said, referencing the prophecy in Daniel 11:4 that foretells the division of Alexander's kingdom. "His story was always going to end in loss because it was built on human ambition. But God's Kingdom is different. It's a Kingdom that will never be destroyed, a treasure that will never fade." As the pastor concluded, he reminded the audience of life's brevity and the eternal significance of their choices. "Your life is a vapor," he said. "Live today in light of that day when you stand before God. Build your container, fill it with treasure that matters, and be ready to give it all away." Part one of Passion 2025 was held Jan. 2-4, with part two held Jan. 6-8. The theme of this year's conference is "For His Renown" and featured founder Louie Giglio, Sadie Robertson Huff, Jackie Hill Perry, Jonathan Pokluda and others. Home News Pence quotes popular Bible verse ahead of Jan. 6 US Capitol riot anniversary On the eve of the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, former Vice President Mike Pence shared a Bible verse on social media that may have been a reflection on the events that day. The verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14 reads: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." Pence, 65, shared the verse on his X account (formerly Twitter) on Sunday afternoon and posted it without context, leaving room for speculation about its relevance to the anniversary of the Capitol riot, particularly given Pence's pivotal role in certifying the 2020 election results for President Joe Biden. 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 Pence's certification enraged supporters of then-President Donald Trump and ultimately contributed to the violent protest at the U.S. Capitol. The passage quoted by Pence is from the Old Testament and is part of a longer passage of Scripture where God promises the people of Israel forgiveness and healing in response to repentance. In its original context, it follows King Solomon's dedication of the First Temple in Jerusalem and serves as a warning from God to His people that, should they stray from His commandments, they would face judgment, including the withholding of rain, the devouring of crops by locusts and the sending of pestilence, according to the Christian apologetics site Got Questions. Only through repentance, humility and a turning back to God would the people receive His forgiveness and healing. The Bible verse gained media attention following Trump's 2016 election after Christian conservatives repeatedly cited 2 Chronicles 7:14 as a rallying cry for the country to honor its covenant with God, calling for a return to faith and national healing. Immediately following Trump's 2016 victory, Billy Graham's daughter and evangelist Anne Graham Lotz said it was a sign that God was answering the prayer of His people, just like He promised in 2 Chronicles 7:14. In his post on Sunday, however, Pence left out the first part of the passage, which describes God's judgment, declaring "Then the Lord appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: 'I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a house of sacrifice.'" The former vice president instead emphasized the promise of healing and forgiveness. The post came just hours before Congress certified Trump as president-elect in proceedings that unfolded Monday without incident as lawmakers convened under heavy security and a snowstorm to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election. It doesn't seem likely Pence will play a role in the upcoming Trump administration after he has distanced himself from his former running mate following the events of Jan. 6, 2021. In a 2022 interview, Pence called Trump's actions on that day "reckless" as he launched an unsuccessful campaign to challenge Trump for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Speaking with ABC News's David Muir, Pence recalled a conversation with Trump the morning of Jan. 6 in which he told the president he doesn't "have the authority to reject votes during the electoral count and return those votes to the states." Claiming voter fraud, Trump maintained that the vice president had the authority to unilaterally reject electoral votes from key battleground states if enough people raised concerns about the authenticity of the vote, an idea that Pence pushed back on during his conversation with the president. "It went downhill from there," Pence said. "The president became very irate on the phone. He said that if that was true, then he made a mistake five years ago.'" Home News Pope Francis names first woman to head major Vatican office Pope Francis has named a nun to head a prominent office at the Vatican, the first time a woman has held that position and the latest example of the pontiff adding more women to leadership roles in the Catholic Church. The pontiff announced Monday that he appointed Sister Simona Brambilla of the Consolata Missionaries to serve as prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. Brambilla, 59, previously served as the superior general of the Consolata Missionaries and has served as secretary of the same dicastery since October 2023. She is the first woman appointed prefect of a dicastery of the Holy See. 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 dicastery is a department of the Roman Curia that helps the pope govern the Catholic Church, with its name deriving from a Greek word meaning "court of justice." "Sr. Brambilla was the second woman to be appointed Secretary of a Vatican Dicastery, following the 2021 appointment of Sr. Alessandra Smerilli to the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development," the announcement explains. "She has a background that includes missionary experience in Mozambique. She was a professional nurse before joining the Consolata Missionary Sisters Institute, which she led from 2011 to 2023." Although opposed to the ordination of women as priests, Francis has on multiple occasions elevated women to leadership roles within the Church under his papacy. In April 2018, the pope appointed three female theologians to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, tasked with defending Catholic doctrine. It marked the first time that women and laity were represented in the CDF, with the Vatican paper L'Osservatore Romano labeling the decision "historic." In 2020, Francis appointed six women to the Council for the Economy, which was created in 2014 to oversee financial matters in Vatican City. Among them was Ruth Kelly, who had previously served as a minister in the government of former United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair. "It is wonderful to see the pope's commitment to promoting women to decision-making posts in the Vatican," Kelly told The National Catholic Reporter at the time. In April 2023, Francis allowed women to become members of the Synod of Bishops, a first for the pontifical advisory body since it was created more than a half-century ago. Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary general of the Secretariat for the Synod of Bishops, expressed his support for the change, believing that the body would be "enriched" by the new representation. "As you can see, the space in the tent is being enlarged," said Grech, as quoted by Catholic News Service, while still clarifying that "The Synod of Bishops will remain a synod of bishops." A Sacramento man and his son were charged sentenced to decades in prison for child sexual abuse after evidence tumbled out of the walls of their former home as it was being renovated, officials said. Rafe Swan/Getty Images A father and son were sentenced to decades in prison after evidence of child sexual assaults they had committed in the 1980s and 90s came tumbling out of a homes wall during a renovation, the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office said Tuesday. A Sacramento Superior Court judge sentenced Theadore Smith to 100 years in prison, while his son, James Smith, was given 23 years to life. Theadore Smith was sentenced for acts committed in his Sacramento-area home in 1988, while his son was convicted for acts in 1993. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A new owner purchased the home where the Smiths lived for more than 40 years in 2021. Prosecutors said the new occupant was renovating an outbuilding on the property when explicit Polaroid photos and video tapes showing child exploitation from the 1980s and 1990s came tumbling out from the wall. The Sacramento County Sheriffs Office investigated and located the now adult victims in the photos and videos. The victims were under 5 years old when the abuse began, and it continued for the majority of the first 10 years of their lives, prosecutors said. Theadore Smith, aged 90, and James Smith, age 66, were living in Texas when the evidence was discovered. Prosecutors said further child sexual abuse material was found at their Texas residence and that James Smith was found en route back to California with more in his possession. The elder Smith pleaded no contest to multiple counts of committing lewd acts upon a child. He admitted to another allegation of substantial sexual conduct allegation along with aggravating factors. James Smith pled no contest to two counts of committing lewd acts upon a child. He admitted to a multiple victim allegation and substantial sexual conduct allegation as well as aggravating factors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite video and photographic proof of the abuse, the statute of limitations prohibited prosecutors from bringing charges for abuse that occurred prior to 1988. Home News Pope taps cardinal who supports communion for pro-choice Catholics to lead DC archdiocese Pope Francis has appointed a supporter of allowing pro-abortion Catholic politicians to receive communion to lead the Roman Catholic archdiocese surrounding the United States capital. In a statement Monday, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis selected Cardinal Robert McElroy of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego to serve as the new Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. McElroy replaces the retiring Wilton Gregory. McElroy has emerged as one of the most vocal supporters of allowing pro-choice Catholic politicians to receive communion despite their advocacy in favor of a position that directly contradicts church teaching. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe In 2021, as the Catholic Church in the U.S. debated whether to adopt a national policy calling for withholding communion from Catholic politicians who support the legalization of abortion following the election of Catholic Democrat Joe Biden as president, McElroy forcefully denounced the idea as "very destructive." "I do not see how depriving the President of other political leaders of Eucharist based on their public policy stance can be interpreted in our society as anything other than the weaponization of the Eucharist," he said in a statement to CRUX Now. McElroy elaborated on his concerns in an op-ed for America, a Jesuit publication, published in May 2021. "The proposal to exclude pro-choice Catholic political leaders from the Eucharist is the wrong step," McElroy said. "It will bring tremendously destructive consequences not because of what it says about abortion, but because of what it says about the Eucharist." "Fully half the Catholics in the United States will see [excluding pro-abortion political leaders from the Eucharist] as partisan in nature, and it will bring the terrible partisan divisions that have plagued our nation into the very act of worship that is intended by God to cause and signify our oneness," he warned. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops stopped short of approving a document banning pro-choice Catholic politicians from receiving communion. Instead, they adopted a document declaring that members of the Catholic laity "who exercise some form of public authority have a special responsibility to form their consciences in accord with the Church's faith and the moral law, and to serve the human family by upholding human life and dignity." "As Christians, we bear the responsibility to promote the life and dignity of the human person, and to love and to protect the most vulnerable in our midst: the unborn, migrants and refugees, victims of racial injustice, the sick and the elderly," the document, approved in November 2021, asserted. When the June 2021 decision to move forward with crafting a "Document on the Meaning of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church" prompted confusion as to whether or not it banned pro-abortion Catholic politicians from communion, the USCCB released a statement insisting that "the question of whether or not to deny any individual or groups Holy Communion was not on the ballot." Supporters of withholding communion to such politicians point to a 2004 letter sent by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who would later become Pope Benedict XVI, to top church leaders in the U.S. Noting that "the Church teaches the abortion or euthanasia is a grave sin," he quoted from the Encyclical Letter Evangelium vitae, which teaches that "In the case of an intrinsically unjust law, such as a law permitting abortion or euthanasia, it is therefore never licit to obey it or to 'take part in a propaganda campaign in favor of such a law or vote in favor of it.'" "When a person's formal cooperation becomes manifest (understood, in the case of a Catholic politician, as his consistently campaigning and voting for permissive abortion and euthanasia laws), his Pastor should meet with him, instructing him about the Church's teaching, informing him that he is not to present himself for Holy Communion until he brings to an end the objective situation of sin, and warning him that he will otherwise be denied the Eucharist," Ratzinger wrote. Ratzinger added that "When 'these precautionary measures have not had their effect ,' and the person in question, with obstinate persistence, still presents himself to receive the Holy Eucharist, 'the minister of Holy Communion must refuse to distribute it.'" McElroy has also emerged as an outspoken progressive on LGBT issues. In an interview with America published in 2016, McElroy described the Catechism of the Catholic Church's characterization of homosexual acts as "intrinsically disordered" as "very destructive language that I think we should not use pastorally." Following the U.S. Supreme Court's 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision that determined that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right, McElroy issued a statement acknowledging that "the Catholic Church, along with other faith traditions, teaches that the nature of marriage and the family cannot be redefined by society, as God is the author of marriage and its corresponding gift of co-creating human life." However, McElroy also called same-sex unions "loving and familial relationships which enrich the lives of so many gay men and women who are our sons and daughters, our sisters and brothers, and ultimately our fellow pilgrims on this earthly journey of life." Home News US House chaplain marks Jan. 6 with Democratic leadership, prays against 'enemies within' Margaret Grun Kibben ordained in PCUSA The chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives gathered with congressional Democratic leadership Monday to mark the fourth anniversary of the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, with a moment of silence and a prayer that included a mention of "enemies within." Margaret Grun Kibben, an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA), stood in front of the press with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., in a hallway where protesters first entered the Capitol four years ago. Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., also joined the group. Schumer and Jeffries just held a moment of silence and prayer with the House Chaplain (Yes, she is a Presbyterian) at the door where mostly peaceful Trump supporters entered the Senate on January 6 lol. pic.twitter.com/rmxHXTy6aG 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 January 6, 2025 Gracious and almighty God, this day means so much to so many people, Kibben prayed. "What was intended to be a historical parliamentary procedure turned quickly into turmoil, the frustration, anger and fear. We pray now that, on this day four years later, that you would enter into the space in a much different way, in a way that allows for peace and for conversation and for reconciliation." Kibben went on to pray that God "would in some way transform our memories; that the blessing that we would have would be to be the reminder of the calling to which you have called us: to serve you carefully and faithfully." She also invoked God's help "to deal with all that comes across the threshold: enemies within, enemies from without our own country," without elaborating on who she was talking about. "We pray then that we would serve you now ever more carefully, even more specifically intending to preserve all that you have given us, this experience that is so precarious; that in this, we would be the strength, the foundation to our future, Kibben continued. "May these memories only strengthen our fortitude to serve you then, for now and always. It's in the strength of your name we pray, Amen," she added. Kibben, who became the first woman to serve as House chaplain when former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., appointed her in 2021, received her Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Princeton University. She had previously served as the U.S. Navy's 26th chief of chaplains and the 18th chaplain of the U.S. Marine Corps. Kibben was present in the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and claimed the situation reminded her of combat, according to The Oneida Daily Dispatch. After Kibben's prayer, Schumer took the opportunity to condemn those who "want to sweep [Jan. 6] under the rug, who want to change the story," and praised his Democratic colleagues for not being "election deniers." We also hope that we serve as an example to our Republican colleagues, Schumer said. "We are not election deniers. We lost the election, we regret it, but we believe in the strength of our democracy, and that when you lose an election, you roll up your sleeves and try to win the next one." "You don't deny that you lost it and encourage people to do bad, bad things because you did not want to admit that they had lost the election, even though the facts were overwhelming," Schumer added in an apparent reference to President-elect Donald Trump, who continues to maintain that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him. The popular X account Libs of TikTok posted a clip of Schumer's "election denier" remarks along with a 24-minute video compilation of prominent Democrats denying the legitimacy of Republican electoral victories for the past 25 years. Monday's congressional certification of Trump's victory marked the first time since 1988 that a congressional Democrat did not object to the electoral vote count favoring a Republican president. Chuck Schumer just claimed that Democrats are not election deniers and Republicans should learn from them. Heres 24 straight minutes of Democrats denying election results. Oops pic.twitter.com/Rc2J4Fam2h Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) January 6, 2025 Home Opinion Whats difference between education and propaganda? Propaganda and conspiracy theories are often troubling and all too common. They also present serious challenges to critical thinking. There is also increasing attention and debate given to whether public schools and colleges in our time educate or indoctrinate their students. Whats the difference between education and propaganda? One of the best ways of avoiding propaganda is knowing what it is and how it functions differently from a classical liberal education. First, its necessary to define three key terms. Education is the pursuit and discovery of information, knowledge, truth, and wisdom (and the skills to do so) through critical analysis. That challenging process of discovery can be unaided (self-study) or aided (teachers). The prized goal of education is for the student to develop the ability to form an independent, reasonable judgment of the topics studied. Thus, the goal of the tutelage is to equip the student to think both analytically and independently. A modern or classical liberal education prioritizes competency development over knowledge accumulation and general education over specialized education. Learning to learn, and self-directed, life-long learning are also key concepts. The goal is to guide students to become critical-thinking adults with civil competency. Tools for achieving these goals include academic freedom, practice and experience, effort, political neutrality, and interaction and Socratic dialogue.1 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 Indoctrination can refer to mere instruction on a topic. To some extent, education involves a level of indoctrination. However, indoctrination often carries the negative meaning of inculcating ideas in an uncritical manner. It often lacks the necessary critical analysis; as such, it undercuts the goals of modern liberal education. Indoctrination then to some degree is closer to propaganda than to education. Propaganda involves the spreading of information including slanted and deceptive information to get someone to accept a particular agenda, usually of a political nature. Propaganda is then worse than well-intentioned indoctrination because it seeks to control a person and maneuver them into adopting a specific ideology or viewpoint. Intellectual historian and political philosopher Richard M. Weaver contrasts education with propaganda: It is of primary importance to distinguish propaganda from education. These two are confused in the minds of many people because both are concerned with communication. Education imparts information and also seeks to inculcate attitudes. Propaganda frequently contains information, and it is always interested in affecting attitudes. A good part of modern propaganda, furthermore, tries to parade as education. The critical difference appears only when one considers the object of each.2 The lack of freedom of speech on American university campuses and thus the legitimate concern of encroaching propaganda in education has intensified over the last quarter century. The University of Chicago in response to this growing concern developed guiding principles to attempt to secure academic freedom and return to a classical liberal education standard. This article explains: The Chicago principles, also known as the Chicago Statement, are a set of guiding principles intended to demonstrate a commitment to freedom of speech and freedom of expression on college campuses in the United States. Initially adopted by the University of Chicago following a report issued by a designate Committee on Freedom of Expression in 2014, they came to be known as the Chicago Statement or Chicago principles as the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) led a campaign to encourage other universities across the country to sign up to the principles or model their own based on similar goals ... As of April 2022, FIRE reported that 84 U.S. colleges and universities had adopted or endorsed the Chicago Statement or a substantially similar statement.3 In this article, we quote affirmatively from statements made about education and freedom of speech and expression from the University of Chicago. Lets now look at seven specific ways true education differs from propaganda. Seven ways education differs from propaganda A classical liberal education (analytical discovery) strives to incorporate the following seven ideals, practices, and virtues, whereas propaganda (manipulative persuasion) in turn denies, ignores, or limits them. 1. Education emphasizes how to think instead of what to think Genuine learning requires developing critical thinking skills that can aid the student in analysis and evaluation in order to form a reasonable judgment on a given topic. A good education prepares students to develop the necessary skills to learn to think for themselves. Logic is a discipline of careful thinking. Propaganda tells a person exactly what to think, even specifically what conclusion to draw from an argument. Propaganda is interested not in developing rational judgment in the mind of the student but in the pure persuasion of the students mind toward its specified ends. It prescribes what the propagandist wants you to think, while discouraging what you think. 2. Education pursues objectivity instead of subjectivity A solid approach to learning acknowledges the challenge of human bias and prejudice and seeks to promote reasonable open-mindedness, evenhandedness, and basic fairness when considering issues. Education usually serves to broaden ones perspective and to seek the objective if it can indeed be found. Propaganda appeals to human bias and prejudice if it serves its purpose. Rather than an open, even-handed, and fair mind, propaganda wants a mind that is fully subjected to its aims. Propaganda is agenda-driven. It focuses on the subjective goal of persuasion and significantly narrows ones perspective of the issues. Weaver, again, contrasts education with propaganda: The true educator is endeavoring to shape his audience for the audiences own good according to the fullest enlightenment available. In doing so he erects and strives to follow a standard of objective truth. The propagandist, on the contrary, is trying to shape his audience according to the propagandists interest, whether that be economic, political, social, or personal.4 3. Education introduces disagreements, instead of shielding them Discovering genuine knowledge and truth about life and the world is seldom without controversy and disagreement among people. A good learning environment exposes students to the general and important differences concerning topics and perspectives. Education presupposes an intellectual free market of ideas. Even if the school has a particular worldview focus (religious or secular), alternative views are presented accurately and thoughtful discussion and comparison are given. People who hold opposing views are even invited to campus for dialogue and debate. Propaganda selectively shields people from controversies and disagreements. It doesnt want its ideas to be openly inspected and challenged. Theres no free market of ideas debate. People who hold opposing views are shouted down or not given a place at the table of discussion, while free speech and open debate are constrained in favor of ideological safe spaces. In contrast, the University of Chicago, a beacon for free speech and a free market of ideas, describes its approach to education: We teach students how to think, not what to think, in an independent, flexible, and creative way. We foster a skeptical approach and a demand for data balanced by optimistic belief that the greatest challenges provide the richest rewards.5 4. Education examines both sides instead of just one side When topics are divided between viable positions, a good model of education exposes students to a fair-minded discussion of both sides of a controversial issue. The perspective of a classical liberal education is to expose students to differing positions and arguments and let the student develop the capacity to form an independent judgment on the matter. Propaganda tends to be manipulatively one-sided in perspective because it has a lot to lose by allowing both sides to be compared and contrasted. Propagandas goal is to win acceptance and protect its perspective at nearly any cost. In 2014, the University of Chicago appointed a Committee on Freedom of Expression to evaluate and express the institutions responsibilities toward its students. The committee concluded that a conflict of ideas is inevitable, even natural and that it is not the schools place to help students avoid such conflicts: But it is not the proper role of the University to attempt to shield individuals from ideas and opinions they find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive ... concerns about civility and mutual respect can never be used as a justification for closing off discussion of ideas.6 5. Education reviews both pros and cons Proposed solutions to problems can be controversial and usually involve potential strengths and weaknesses. A fair-minded approach to learning gets into the practice of examining both the pros and cons of a position. Genuine learning involves knowing a viewpoints strengths and weaknesses. Such knowledge is a serious threat to propaganda. If people examine the pros and cons, then they may begin to think for themselves and take differing positions. Propaganda is all about persuasion; thus, the focus is exclusively on either the strengths or the weaknesses, the pro or the con, depending on how it relates to the agenda. A fair-minded approach to learning examines both the pros and cons of a position. The University of Chicago argues that they have a solemn responsibility not only to promote a lively and fearless freedom of debate and deliberation but also to protect that freedom when others attempt to restrict it.7 6. Education promotes honest intellectual inquiry, not deception A proper education stresses the critical importance of honesty at every stage of the learning process. Because ideas, evidence, and arguments are prized, they should be treated with integrity. Reality and truth cant be separated from moral virtue. Unfortunately, manipulation and intellectual deception are the hallmarks of propaganda. Persuasion means winning and, for propaganda, if winning comes at the cost of truth, honesty, and rationality, then so be it. Intellectual honesty is always the casualty of propaganda. Richard M. Weaver maintains that propaganda often employs four informal logical fallacies that manipulate thinking:8 ad hominem (character attacks), false cause (confusing cause-effect relationships), weak analogy (faulty analogies), and unqualified authority (inappropriate appeals to authority). 7. Education encourages dialogue over monologue Respectful discussion, dialogue, and interaction enhance learning. In fact, learning under multiple voices is often superior to learning under one especially authoritarian voice. Propaganda, on the other hand, permits no other voices to be heard. It is a monologue where other voices are drowned out intentionally, lest they challenge the agenda. Christian theologian Tim Keller illustrates the benefits of dialogue this way: When you listen to and read one thinker, you become a clone; Two different thinkers, you become confused; Ten thinkers, youll begin developing your own voice; Two or three hundred thinkers, you become wise.9 A good education (unaided or aided) can provide the critical tools to help students gain genuine knowledge, truth, and wisdom. Robert M. Hutchins, former president of the University of Chicago, who along with Mortimer J. Adler introduced the university to the study of the great books, believes student discussion should not be restricted. He insisted that the cure for ideas we oppose lies through open discussion rather than through inhibition.10 Hutchins also added that free inquiry is indispensable to the good life, that universities exist for the sake of such inquiry without it they cease to be universities.11 A noble learning experience illuminates the human condition and greatly enhances the human experience in life and in the world. A genuine education would, by its very nature, be the solution to the deep problem of propaganda. Which of educations seven ideals, practices, and virtues do you find the noblest? How prevalent is propaganda today? How would your education experience stack up? Notes 1. Vitaly Kurennoy, Philosophy of Liberal Education: The Principles, IDEAS, ideas.repec.org/a/nos/voprob/2020i1p8-39.html. 2. Richard M. Weaver, In Defense of Tradition: Collected Shorter Writings of Richard M. Weaver, 19291963, illustrated ed. (Carmel, IN: Liberty Fund, 2001), 300. 3. Wikipedia, s.v. Chicago principles, last modified January 7, 2024, 15:50 (UTC), en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_principles. 4. Weaver, In Defense of Tradition, 300. 5. University of Chicago, Identity Guidelines, Communicating UChicago: A Resource for Communicators, news.uchicago.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/_uchicago.identity.guidelines.pdf. 6. University of Chicago, The Committee on Freedom of Expression, Report of the Committee on Freedom of Expression, provost.uchicago.edu/sites/default/files/documents/reports/FOECommitteeReport.pdf. 7. University of Chicago, Report. 8. Weaver, In Defense of Tradition, 300311. 9. Tim Keller (@timkellernyc), Twitter, January 7, 2022, 11:14 a.m., twitter.com/timkellernyc/status/1479531788443729926. 10. University of Chicago, Report. 11. University of Chicago, Report. The above article is adapted from Kenneth R. Samples and Mark Perez, Clear Thinking in a Messy World: A Christian Guide to Logic, Reason, and Cognitive Bias (RTB Press, 2024). To learn more about the book and to purchase your own copy, visit support.reasons.org. Originally published at The Worldview Bulletin Newsletter. Home News Catholics criticize Pope Francis latest encyclical as 'political document with a religious veneer Many prominent American Catholics and publications have criticized Pope Francis latest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, describing the document as pregnant with socio-political concerns and a political document with a religious veneer. In the encyclical, signed Saturday on St. Francis tomb in Assisi, Italy, Pope Francis shares his beliefs on fraternity and social friendship. He stressed that the following pages do not claim to offer a complete teaching on fraternal love, but rather to consider its universal scope, its openness to every man and woman. Throughout Fratelli Tutti, the Italian translation of the phrase brothers all, Francis expressed support for the idea of universal fraternity by speaking in favor of the integration of Europe and generating a better world for the whole human family. He slammed radical individualism as a virus that is extremely difficult to eliminate and indicated concern about the regression into a myopic, extremist, resentful and aggressive nationalism. 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 Francis also criticized free-market capitalism as a dogma of neoliberal faith and asserted that the Christian tradition has never recognized the right to private property as absolute or inviolable. He reiterated his staunch opposition to the death penalty and dismissed the notion of a just war. Catholic author Eric Sammons wrote a blog post in response to the encyclical on Monday. This is not a religious document, but instead a political document with a religious veneer, he said. Although Fratelli Tutti does include a chapter on the parable of the Good Samaritan, this is included mostly to support the popes political advice throughout the encyclical. While Sammons acknowledged that many previous encyclicals have in the past often addressed current political issues, he claimed that previous political statements made by popes were designed to clearly re-affirm certain Catholic moral teachings and then encourage the laity to apply these teachings to the political realm. This document seems the reverse: affirm certain political views, then apply some religious language to support those views," Sammons argued. He also took issue with Francis lack of specificity when addressing certain political topics. For example, Francis proclaimed that in some host countries, migration causes fear and alarm, often fomented and exploited for political purposes. Sammons cited that passage as one of many straw man arguments used in the encyclical, where the pontiff elects to use the word some instead of citing specific examples. He expanded on his criticism of Fratelli Tutti in an interview with The Washington Times, explaining that Francis gives specific policy advice in areas best left to the laity to determine the prudent course of action. Sammons, along with the website ChurchMilitant, took issue with Pope Francis declaration that St. Francis did not wage a war of words aimed at imposing doctrines but instead inspired the vision of a fraternal society. The characterization of St. Francis as a modern ecumenist, with no desire to convert others was simply untrue," Sammons further contended. St. Francis went to the Holy Land with one purpose: to convert Muslims, he explained. ChurchMilitant, which is frequently critical of Pope Francis, described the encyclical as pregnant with socio-political concerns and took issue with the lack of mention of salvation. John-Henry Westen, co-founder and editor of the Catholic pro-life website LifeSiteNews.com, alleged that Fratelli Tutti featured a steady drumbeat of socialist talking points which seem more like catchphrases from the Democrat playbook than statements worthy of the Vicar of Christ. He also criticized the document for its failure to mention the issue of abortion. Fratelli Tutti is the third encyclical released by Pope Francis since he became pontiff in early 2013. His first encyclical was drafted by his predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, but finished by Francis, making it the first encyclical to be written by two popes. Francis second encyclical, published in 2015, focused extensively on the issue of climate change. Home News Russia 'restraining' the Antichrist? Orthodox Church believes last czar 'held back satanic socialism' Does the Russian Orthodox Church believe that Russia, through its invasion of Ukraine, is "restraining" the appearance of the Antichrist? Ever since the head of the Russian Orthodox Church declared President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine a "holy war" last year, the ongoing war which initially began in 2014 but saw a dramatic escalation with Putin's invasion in February of 2022 has taken on even more religious overtones. The invasion, which marks the most significant and deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, has caused hundreds of thousands of military casualties and tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilian casualties. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe On March 27, the World Russian People's Council, headed by Russian Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill, a staunch Putin ally, declared the "special military operation" in Ukraine is nothing less than "a holy war in which Russia and its people, defending the one spiritual space of Holy Russia, fulfill the mission of the 'Hiding' that protects the world from the onslaught of globalism and the victory of the West that fell into the Satanism." This "hiding," scholars say, is believed to be a reference to a long-standing mystical tradition in Russian theology, which holds that Russia is the defender of Christendom. In this theology, Moscow is often seen as the "Third Rome," following the fall of Constantinople, and a place where the forces of good are believed to be fighting against the rise of the Antichrist figure in the book of Revelation, according to Sarah Riccardi-Swartz, assistant professor of religion and anthropology at Northeastern University and author of Between Heaven and Russia: Religious Conversion and Political Apostasy in Appalachia (Orthodox Christianity and Contemporary Thought). "There's a long-running idea in mystical Russian theology that Russia is holding back the Antichrist and is doing that specifically through the prayers of the departed Czar Nicholas II," Riccardi-Swartz told a Northeastern-owned publication in March. "They believe Czar Nicholas II is in Heaven, interceding on behalf of them, and through his intercessions Russia is successful in holding back the Antichrist." This concept is known as a theologoumenon, or a religious opinion that might be debated rather than an official doctrine. It is perhaps even utilized in one or all the various Orthodox churches and widely acknowledged across both the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, since Nicholas II was canonized in both jurisdictions. In an interview with The Christian Post, Riccardi-Swartz traces the roots of this idea to a New Testament passage in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-8, which speaks of a "restrainer" who prevents the rise of evil prior to the return of Christ. She explains that some Russian Orthodox have linked this concept to Nicholas II, who is seen as having served as this restraining force during his lifetime. "Russian Orthodox thinkers, because of the czar's gruesome death at the hands of the Bolsheviks, have suggested that it is the departed czar who held back satanic socialism for as long as he could before his death," Riccardi-Swartz says. "Plus, after his death, he continues to metaphysically hold back secularism through his prayers for Russia and the world." Home News Russias war on Ukraine: Are we living in the End Times? Is Russias war on Ukraine a significant event in terms of prophecies recorded in the Bible? As many Christians debate this question, Southern California Pastor Greg Laurie explains why he believes we are living in the End Times. This is war at a scale we have not seen in a long time, Laurie, senior pastor and founder of the multi-campus Harvest Christian Fellowship in California, says in a video message posted on his churchs website, referring to Matthew 24:6, which reads, And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. The following verse, he adds, talks about plagues being around us in the last days. If the coronavirus is not a plague, I dont know what it is. Its a global plague. 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 Many Bible scholars believe that the mention of Magog attacking Israel in Ezekiel 38 is modern-day Russia, he continues. According to another prophecy in Ezekiel, Jewish people will be scattered and regathered in their land again, which has been fulfilled, Laurie continues, explaining that during World War II and after the Holocaust, Jewish people from around the world began to return to their land. And Israel officially became a nation on May 14, 1948. But Scripture also says that a nation from the extreme north of Israel, called Gog and Magog, will march on her, he says, adding that Ukraine used to be a part of the Russian Empire until 1991. If you look on any map, youll see that is the geographical area of Russia. Are they going to be part of Russia again? Could be. But the one thing that I think of is that when I see the aggression of Russia or Magog, if you will, its a reminder that thats what were going to see when Magog attacks Israel. And if we believe that the prophecies are coming true, we should look up, and we should remember that God is in control, Laurie concludes. Joel Rosenberg, an American-Israeli communications strategist, author and nonprofit executive, also wrote a few years ago that: The Hebrew prophet Ezekiel wrote 2,500 years ago that in the last days of history, Russia and Iran will form a military alliance to attack Israel from the north. Bible scholars refer to this eschatological conflict, described in Ezekiel 3839, as the War of Gog & Magog. He quotes Ezekiel 38:14-16, which reads: Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog: This is what the Sovereign Lord says: In that day, when my people Israel are living in safety, will you not take notice of it? You will come from your place in the far north, you and many nations with you, all of them riding on horses, a great horde, a mighty army. You will advance against my people Israel like a cloud that covers the land. In days to come, Gog, I will bring you against my land, so that the nations may know me when I am proved holy through you before their eyes. The Christian apologist website Got Questions also talks about Russia in biblical prophecy. Gog is a person. Whoever Gog is, he is from the land of Magog and is the leader of Tubal and Meshek (some translations add Rosh to the list) and a confederacy of other nations: Persia, Cush, Put, Gomer, and Beth Togarmah (Ezekiel 38:56). And, whoever he is, he will have plans to attack a peaceful and unsuspecting people, viz., Israel (verses 11, 14, and 18). But, regardless of Gogs plans, the Lord God is against him and will defeat him soundly (Ezekiel 38:4, 1923; 39:35). Persia, a nation listed as being in alliance with Magog, is modern-day Iran. Justin Trudeau Resigns, Biden Takes Lords Name In Vain, And Gives George Soros Highest Civilian Honor link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 07:23 07:23 Top headlines for Tuesday, January 7, 2025 In this episode, we discuss the social media uproar following President Joe Biden's recent exchange with reporters at the White House. Meanwhile, north of the border, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation after weeks of mounting pressure. And, we explore the surprising midnight resignation of Justin Welby as the Archbishop of Canterbury and what his departure means for the church's future. ?Follow Us on Social Media ?Get the Edifi App ?Subscribe to Our Newsletter ?Links to the News Home Opinion The Gospel according to Calvinism The salvation of a single soul is more important than the production or preservation of all the epics and tragedies in the world ... The glory of God, and, as our only means to glorifying Him, the salvation of human souls, is the real business of life (C.S. Lewis). In Luke Chapter 2 we get an account of the first words spoken by Jesus in the Gospels, I must be about My Father's business (Luke 2:49 NKJV) In a sense, the balance of the New Testament details for us the nature of the Fathers business. It seems the Father is in the soul-saving business and what God shares with us in the Christian Bible is his business plan, of sorts. 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 Of course, in every business enterprise the goal is success, and success is generally measured by profitability. The soul-saving business is no exception. God is looking for profit. Nowhere is this clearer than in the Great Commission where Jesus tells his apostles to go into the world and make disciples of all nations. In essence, the Great Commission is a command by the boss to his employees to grow the business and to be profitable. A parable on soul-redemption profit Gods desire for profitability is illustrated in Chapter 25 of the Gospel of Matthew where Jesus tells a parable intended to teach us what God expects from his servants. In the Parable of the Talents (Mat 25:14-30), Jesus tells of a man going away on a journey who gives one servant five talents, another two talents and another one talent. A talent was an exceptionally large sum of money. The servant with five talents invests wisely and returns 10 talents to the master. The servant with two talents also doubles what he was given. These two servants are praised as good and faithful. But the servant who was given one talent, buries his talent in the ground and returns to the master only what he was originally given. For this he is rebuked, called wicked and slothful by the master. Note that God (the master) expects his servants, those in whom he has invested and gifted with special abilities (talents), to be effective and profitable, that is, to return to him more than they are given. In other words, God, whose business is the redemption of lost souls, expects profit, and profit in the soul-redemption business simply means more saved people. Note also that breaking even is not an option. The chosen servant who gives back to the master only what he was originally given is severely rebuked. A bad business model With the Parable of the Talents in mind, lets look at the Augustinian/Calvinistic view of the Gospel. Ive created a simple model to help us better understand the basics of the Gospel according to Calvinism. The Father "The Elect" Jesus "The Elect" The Father Heres how the model works: From before the foundation of the world, the Father divided all people into two groups: the elect and the non-elect. The Father gives the elect to Jesus (John 6:37,44, 65). The non-elect are never enabled to believe in Jesus which leaves them in their sins and subject to the righteous judgment of God. At the end of the age, Jesus gives the elect back to the Father (John 14:6, 1 Corinthians 15:24). The non-elect, unable to believe in Jesus, remain in their sins and are condemned. In its most basic form, the Calvinistic doctrine of election can be explained like this: In the beginning, the Father chooses only certain people (the elect) to give to the Son to be saved. At the end, the Son gives the same people (the elect) back to the Father. Divine regifting Although there are a number of biblical difficulties with Calvinism, there is one glaring shortcoming revealed by the model above: In Calvinism, since the Father gets back only those originally given to Jesus, theres no profit, theres no increase. What we see in Calvinism is a kind of divine regifting where Jesus merely re-packages the same people who were given to him before returning them to the Father. In view of the Parable of the Talents, this is the exact result for which a servant is called wicked and slothful by the master. Of course, Calvinists might argue that the elect is sanctified and refined by the Holy Spirit, so the gift returned is not the same as the gift originally given. But the masters complaint in the parable is not the condition of the talents returned to him, but the quantity. A good harvest should provide fruit that is both ripe and plentiful. The Calvinistic model of the Gospel fails to support Gods requirement that his servants provide profit. In view of the goal of Gods soul-saving business plan the salvation of the world through his Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:17, 12:47) the failed Calvinistic model should give us pause. Throughout the Scriptures, Gods purpose of election that is, Gods choosing of the people through whom all the nations will be blessed was designed to promote growth and inclusion. His business strategy can be summed up like this; through the elect, to the world. Yet the Calvinistic model exposes the fact that Calvinism provides a very exclusive Gospel with no provision for kingdom growth. Any gospel that is not good news for the whole world is not the Gospel of Jesus Christ which, according to the apostle Paul, is no Gospel at all. San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott speaks during a news conference in San Francisco. California officials said they no longer need to monitor reform efforts at the citys police department after years of oversight. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle After spending seven years overseeing San Francisco police reforms, the California Department of Justice is stepping away from its monitoring role, saying the department has achieved 97% of its recommended goals and can continue to the finish line on its own. The announcement closes a major chapter in the departments nearly decade-long reform initiative, which began after a spate of controversial police shootings, including the 2015 killing of Mario Woods. Its also a key victory for San Francisco Police Chief Chief Bill Scott, who on Wednesday began reporting to a new mayor who will decide whether Scott gets to keep his job. In its 124-page final report, California DOJ officials wrote a mostly glowing overview of the San Francisco Police Departments progress, which included reducing its overall uses of force, driving down police shootings and installing policies to root out racial bias in policing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The report noted some remaining problems, including newly revealed issues with the departments collection of data on police stops and long-running racial disparities in their uses of force. Still, state officials said SFPD obtained overall substantial compliance by achieving 263 of its 272 recommended reforms. This report marks an important milestone in SFPDs yearslong effort to increase public trust by improving its policing practices, transparency and accountability, Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. As we close this chapter, I am optimistic that SFPD will build on these reforms to continue to reduce racial disparities in stops, searches, and the use of force by SFPD officers. In a statement, Scott touted the citys historically low crime figures, which he attributed to the departments reform efforts and officers community relationships. This is an ongoing effort that we will sustain for years to come, Scott said. Cal DOJ decided to step back while acknowledging that the SFPD reported deeply flawed data to the state on its officers stopping people in vehicles or on the streets. Such data collection was a recommended priority flagged by the federal DOJ years ago. A scathing audit released last month by the Department of Police Accountability found that a third of all the stop data that the SFPD reported for 2023 contained errors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The data is used to identify disparities and potential racial bias in policing. The audit found about 6,000 of the 19,000 stops reported by the SFPD for the year contained issues that compromise data integrity and can make the data unreliable for analysis. The audit found that the problem stemmed from the department switching over to a new data collection system in 2023. Police officials told auditors that the department needed to implement the system to comply with federal recommendations by an April 2024 deadline. In its final report on the SFPD, Cal DOJ addressed the issue in a footnote and said that the problem surfaced as the report was being finalized. Such transitions are not without challenge, the report reads. The department has stated the data has been updated and is correct. SFPD should continue to prioritize and ensure focus on accuracy of data to assure the public of its commitment to reform. The departments reform initiative began in 2016, following a series of controversies that included the 2015 fatal police shooting of Woods in the citys Bayview District. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Amid public outcry, city officials asked then-president Barack Obamas DOJ to assess how the department could improve. Former San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr resigned amid the turmoil, hours after police fatally shot Jessica Williams in May 2016 as she tried to flee from officers in a car they suspected was stolen. Obamas office of Community Oriented Policing Services issued a 431-page report detailing 272 recommendations to transform policing in the city, with an emphasis on reducing uses of force, racial equity, data collection and public transparency. Scott, a former Los Angeles Police Department assistant chief, was tapped by then-Mayor Ed Lee months later. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A Christmas tree illuminates Manger Square near the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. (Photo: Getty/iStock) Orthodox Christians have gathered in Bethlehem this week, the city recognised as the birthplace of Jesus, to mark Christmas. Unlike most other Christian denominations, the Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on 7 January. This date reflects their adherence to the Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC. More than 200 million Christians around the world are associated with Orthodox Churches, with the majority based in Eastern Europe, including large communities in Russia and Ukraine. These Christians follow the Julian calendar, setting them apart from denominations that observe Christmas on 25 December under the Gregorian calendar. Ceremonies and processions marking the event have been taking place around the world, from Cairo to Moscow. On Christmas Eve, in Bethlehem's historic Manger Square, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem was greeted by a respectful gathering of faithful. The celebration was noticeably subdued, marked by a modest procession with whistles and few festive decorations adorning the streets. This year's observance unfolded against the backdrop of the ongoing Gaza conflict. The war, which has raged for over 12 months with no ceasefire in sight, has taken a heavy toll on the region. The violence, occurring just a short distance away, cast a sombre tone over the celebrations. Despite these challenges, Orthodox Christians have remained determined to uphold their ancient traditions, drawing strength from their religious beliefs and the significance of being able to express them in Bethlehem. If you had to name 2023s single-most impactful and disruptive technology, youd need just two letters: AI. With the release of OpenAIs ChatGPT in November 2022, we watched a tsunami of AI news and noise throughout the year. And theres no sign of things slowing down. Even for technology insiders, the rapid pace of generative AIs development and adoption across all business sectors was simply astonishing. Many organizations that considered themselves to be forward-thinking in 2022 suddenly found themselves playing catch-up in 2023. But if FOMO was a thing last year, this year we say NOMO, as in no more fear of missing out. Instead, look before you leap. As we move forward into a new year, its crucial that we commit to a resolution that will help us create significant value for our shareholders, both now and in the years to come. Lets promise ourselves that this will be the year that we adopt a pragmatic approach to harnessing the vast potential of AI. To do so, we need to first ask ourselves three key questions: Question #1: How will we use AI to meet our specific business objectives? In this new year, the speed and scale of AI implementation will make the progress made in 2023 look stagnant. By 2025, IDC expects Global 2000 companies to devote more than 40% of their core IT budgets to AI-related activities, with worldwide AI spending predicted to exceed $500 billion by 2027. The question, then, is not whether you will shift toward more AI-influenced operations in 2024 but how and, more importantly, why. AI promises seemingly limitless possibilities for tech-savvy organizations everything from sorting and analyzing vast amounts of data to improving customer service and patient care. Looking forward, its easy to imagine how AI could alleviate supply chain headaches and even create virtual reality training simulations. Whatever their outward manifestation, though, effective AI activities tend to focus on two underlying objectives: expanding capabilities and eliminating waste. In other words, AI is most often used to increase what one can do and improve how its done to free up human and financial resources so that you can deploy them more strategically elsewhere in the organization. As IT leaders start thinking about how to incorporate AI into their organizations, theyll likely focus on generative AI and other advanced AI capabilities to cut down on costs, especially when it comes to mundane tasks and resource optimization. However, while cost-saving is an important consideration, it shouldnt be the only one on the board. Organizations without a clear vision of what they want to accomplish in 2024 will find plenty of AI bells and whistles but very little direction. AI is a tool, not a mission statement. Focusing on the general use of AI in your organization is not the same as being strategic in how its used. In the same way, its no different than what weve encountered in the past with other transformative technologies, such as cloud computing. As the number of AI features continues to multiply over the next 12 months, its crucial that organizations take precautions now to avoid shiny object syndrome, where the potential of adopting this exciting new technology turns from distraction to detriment. To preserve the integrity of their organizations, leaders must evaluate the strategies they use to prioritize investments so that they can optimize spending in preferred technology areas to reach their business goals. Question #2: How will we make sure that we use AI responsibly? While AI can be a powerful tool for achieving business objectives, it can also be a disastrous liability fraught with risks, another reason why organizations should take a deliberate and pragmatic approach to AI adoption. Many people are concerned about the growth of AI. And, as many organizations discovered in 2023, any perceived misuse of AI will significantly harm brand image, regardless of the initial intention. In the public eye, there is no room for error when it comes to AI use. Its imperative that you and your business stakeholders carefully and regularly review procedures to ensure the ethical use of AI tools and AI-generated outputs. Even if your organization is not presently active in Europe, the EUs forthcoming Artificial Intelligence Act should inform your AI-related policy decisions. And with a recent hearing on the oversight of AI in the United States Senate, its possible the American government will issue guidance as well. At the very least, you should have clear and detailed safeguards in place to address how your organization plans to handle the following issues: Protecting the privacy of customer data Ensuring that proprietary information is not fed into generative AI models Ensuring that AI models and outputs do not reflect bias or prejudice Maintaining vigilant supervision over all AI-related activities Maintaining clear reporting structures for all employees who use generative AI Demonstrating transparency of AI usage to stakeholders inside and outside of the organization As you might expect, your legal department should be deeply involved in these conversations. Question #3: How will we make sure our employees use AI successfully? Ultimately, AI adoption is not just an IT issue: it is a workforce issue. Are your employees ready? If were being honest with ourselves, the answer is probably not yet. With any new technology, many companies operate within the we bought it, so you have to use it paradigm. This inevitably leads to poor morale and haphazard implementation, which undermine the organizations goals. ROI quickly becomes DOA. Organizational change often draws out strong emotions from employees. This is especially true when dealing with powerful and disruptive technologies like generative AI. Having conversations with your workforce about AI-related activities before you implement them will go a long way toward calming their fears and making sure you can meet your objectives. Employees need to know: The vision and goals behind your organizations adoption of AI How AI will augment and enhance the work they do The steps youre taking to protect them and your customers from AI misuse The steps they should take to report any concerns about specific AI activities How youll provide ongoing opportunities for them to gain the skills they need to manage/leverage AI effectively Or, in some cases, how youll help them transition to new positions after AI makes their current roles obsolete In other words, before you begin the process of dedicated upskilling, you should have conversations with your workforce about how youve redefined your business objectives (question 1), created your AI policies and procedures (question 2), and prepared for your employees successful adoption of AI. Doing so will make them comfortable with the initiative, which in turn will give them a sense of ownership of the technology. This gives you a far greater chance of using AI to generate real value for your organization. Looking forward While it seems inevitable that the adoption of AI-enabled technologies will continue to expand and accelerate in 2024, the reality is that successful organizations will need to focus more time and effort on first understanding where AI might actually provide maximum ROI for their organization. Heres to all of us finding success through pragmaticism in this new year. Learn more: If youre assessing AI for ERP, heres guidance on how best to look before you leap. Antioch Police Capt. Joe Vigil was tapped to be the citys interim police chief as officials search for a permanent replacement. Antioch Police Department An Antioch Police Department veteran took the helm as the citys interim police chief Tuesday, officials announced, as the city sets out to reform its police force after a series of scandals. Capt. Joe Vigil was tapped to replace retiring interim Police Chief Brian Addington. Vigil led the department for six months after Police Chief Steven Ford retired in August 2023. Addington, a former Pittsburg police chief, came out of retirement and stepped into his latest role last February. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Chief Vigil has dedicated his life to serving the residents of Antioch, City Manager Bessie Marie Scott said in a statement. She described Vigil as a proven leader who will champion reforms, drive down crime, promote community engagement and beef up the citys police ranks. Vigil will lead the department while the citys nationwide search for a permanent police chief continues. Vigil will be sworn in Friday, a week after the city and the U.S. Department of Justice announced an agreement that aims to root out discrimination in the police force. The agreement stems from an investigation the Justice Department launched last year after a local probe uncovered discriminatory text messages officers exchanged between September 2019 and January 2022. Many of the text messages were racist, sexist and homophobic in nature. The five-year agreement requires the police force to hire a consultant within three months to review and update the departments policies and training on non-discriminatory policing, use of force, hiring and promotions, investigations of misconduct, discipline, community policing and other matters. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Reclaim Fund Ltd, Youth Futures Foundation and Connected Futures teams visit Blackpool and the Fylde College Some 1bn of otherwise unused financial assets have been donated to charities around the UK through the Dormant Assets Scheme via the National Lottery Community Fund, it has been announced. The scheme, set up by the government in 2011, frees up assets, including those from bank accounts, insurance, pensions and wealth management funds, and initially aims to reunite them with their owners. If it cannot do this, it uses the assets to fund charitable and social initiatives instead. The donations of the dormant assets are facilitated by Reclaim Fund Ltd, a not-for-profit public body owned by HM Treasury and managed by UK Government Investments Ltd. Since the schemes inception in 2011, over 50 banks, building societies, and insurance and pension providers have transferred otherwise dormant funds mounting to 1bn into the scheme. The announcement comes after the government confirmed that 350m of dormant assets funding over the next four years will be allocated equally across four spend priorities in England young people, social investment, financial inclusion and community wealth funds. Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales determine their own social and environmental priorities. Gordon Brown: Impact of scheme has been transformative Former prime minister Gordon Brown, who introduced the scheme while in office, said: The unclaimed assets scheme, which I had the privilege to introduce and which now includes 50 financial services firms, has made possible 1bn of investment to tackle some of the UKs most challenging social problems. From supporting 25,000 disadvantaged young people in employment and training to expanding a social investment industry now investing 10bn in UK charities and social enterprises, its impact has been transformative. Civil society minister Stephanie Peacock also welcomed the news, saying: The Dormant Assets Scheme has proven to be life-changing funding to good causes across the UK, benefiting thousands of people and communities as a result. Passing the milestone of 1bn transferred is a testament to the power of industry and government in partnership, and an appropriate moment to recognise the contributions of all the banks, building societies and insurance and pension firms which participate in the scheme. sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, Mental health charity Mind made 91 redundancies last year as part of a restructure as it experienced financial hardship, it has reported. Mind paid 1.58m in redundancy and termination payments, its accounts for the year to March 2024 show. The charity confirmed that 91 redundancies were made across the charity, including at senior leadership level. Mind has now reported a financial deficit of more than 15m for two consecutive years, with its staff costs and number of employees growing during the same period. Financially difficult decisions Chief executive Sarah Hughes told Civil Society: Like so many charities across the UK, Mind has had to make financially difficult decisions about who, how and what we focus on. Thats why in spring 2023 the charity began a strategy review and embarked on a change programme to make sure we are best placed to have the greatest, most sustainable impact for beneficiaries, especially those with the biggest mental health needs. In her introduction to the latest accounts, Hughes said: We had to restructure, and this was tough. Id like to thank everyone who helped make the process as smooth as it could be. Its restructuring also included a new directorate that was put in place in November 2023. Minds directorates now consist of: social change, social impact, Mind Cymru, commercial income, fundraising income, finance and infrastructure and deputy CEO office. Significant volatility in recent years The charitys total income in 2023-24 grew 3.5m to 62.7m while its total expenditure was 79.8m, a 7.2m increase from last year. Of the 62.7m income, 41% came from charity shops and 49% came from donations and legacies of 17.4m, which was a 5% decrease from the previous year. Its account states: The external financial environment has been characterised by significant volatility in recent years and the challenges have impacted Minds income generation, so we have refocused expenditure to best support those in need. Increased staff costs and salaries Minds overall staff costs increased from 33.9m in 2022-23 to 39.6m in 2023-24. It had an average of 1,010 employees in 2022-23 and grew to 1,094 employees in 2023-24. The charitys number of higher-paid employees, ranging from 60,000 to 150,000 increased from 34 to 55 over the same period. Its 60,000 to 70,000 salary bracket had the most newcomers, increasing from 13 employees in 2023 to 26 employees in 2024. Hughes, the chief executive, had the highest salary of 140,000. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, The Winklevoss twins Gemini Trust Co. cryptocurrency exchange agreed to pay $5 million to end a Commodity Futures Trading Commission lawsuit claiming it misled the derivatives regulator in a bid to launch the first US-regulated Bitcoin futures contract. The proposed deal was disclosed Monday in a filing signed by both parties, avoiding a trial set to begin Jan. 21, the day after Donald Trump will be inaugurated for his second term as US president. Gemini, which was founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, settled without admitting or denying liability in the case. In 2022, the CFTC sued Gemini in Manhattan federal court claiming the exchange made false and misleading statements about how it would prevent manipulation in Bitcoin prices that were to serve as a reference for derivatives based on the cryptocurrency. The settlement must be approved by US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, who in November rejected Geminis request and ruled that a jury would have to determine whether 32 statements by Gemini executives to regulators were misleading. Gemini and the CFTC didnt immediately respond to emails seeking comment on the agreement. The Gemini Trust civil enforcement case is one of many court efforts made by President Joe Bidens administration to assert regulatory authority over cryptocurrencies. Trumps election was hailed by many crypto advocates who expect his administration will back more industry-friendly regulation. The billionaire Winklevoss brothers each donated the maximum $844,600 to Trumps 2024 campaign. In late 2017 or early 2018, Gemini turned over subpoenaed laptops from two former executives in a related criminal probe that was closed without any charges filed. Gemini continues to face a suit by the US Securities and Exchange Commission alleging the exchange and the crypto lending firm Genesis Global Capital illegally raised billions of dollars in cryptoassets from investors through the so-called Gemini Earn program. Gemini agreed in February to return at least $1.1 billion to customers as part of a separate settlement with New York regulators. The case is Commodity Futures Trading Commission v. Gemini Trust Co., 22-cv-04563, US District Court, Southern District of New York (Manhattan). Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs weighed in Monday on Nippon Steels failed acquisition of U.S. Steel, and a newly filed lawsuit that accuses the Cleveland company of working to block the merger. In his Monday statement, CEO Lourenco Goncalves called the lawsuit against Cleveland-Cliffs a a shameless effort to scapegoat others for U.S. Steels and Nippon Steels self-inflicted disaster. The lawsuit was filed Monday by Pittsburghs U.S. Steel and Japans Nippon Steel, three days after President Joe Biden blocked their proposed merger. The suit accuses rival steel-maker Cleveland-Cliffs and Goncalves -- in coordination with David McCall, the head of the United Steelworkers union -- of engaging in a coordinated series of anticompetitive and racketeering activities to block the deal, the AP reports. Goncalves called those accusations baseless. Cleveland-Cliffs offered to buy U.S. Steel in 2023 for $7 billion, but the offer was rejected in favor of a competing $15 billion all-cash offer from Nippon Steel. Biden blocked the purchase on Friday on national security grounds. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel continue to play the blame game in a desperate attempt to distract from their own failures, Goncalves said in the statement. Goncalves said Cleveland-Cliffs and the steelworkers union were not the only ones that recognized the adverse national security implications of the acquisition, and noted how the potential deal had drawn bi-partisan opposition. He also noted how Vice President-elect J.D. Vance was among those who urged Biden to reject the deal, which came after a year-long national security review. Goncalves said the security review underscores the importance of maintaining American control over our countrys critical steelmaking infrastructure. Japan, even more than China, has a decades-long history of steel overcapacity and steel dumping in the U.S., Goncalves said. Biden blocked the deal after the U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment could not reach a decision on possible national security risks. Bidens rejection of the deal marks the first time a U.S. president has blocked a merger between a U.S. and Japanese firm, the AP reports. Bidens administration says that Japans relationship with U.S. had no weight in the decision. The lawsuit filed against Cleveland-Cliffs in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania was one of two from Nippon and U.S. Steel in the aftermath of Bidens decision. The other suit, filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, challenges the Biden administrations decision, claiming it was political and that it violated the companies due process rights, the AP reported. Read Goncalves full statement below: 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. 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. Once again, bad course of action. 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. Shortly after the deal was announced, on December 19, 2023, then-Senators J.D. Vance, Marco Rubio and Josh Hawley requested CFIUS to block the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, and rightfully indicated that Trade protections can and should induce foreign investment that expands domestic production and creates American jobs[,] [but] [t]his corporate takeover is out of step with those goals. Allowing foreign companies to buy out American companies and enjoy our trade protections subverts the very purpose for which those protections were put in place. Vance, Rubio and Hawley followed up with a letter to President Biden on May 9, 2024, urging President Biden to summon the courage to do the right thing. Declare whether you will exercise your presidential authority to prohibit or suspend the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon. The final decision by the President of the United States to block the Nippon deal follows a year-long national security review, and underscores the importance of maintaining American control over our countrys critical steelmaking infrastructure. Even more than China, Japan has a decades-long history of steel overcapacity and harmful steel dumping into the United States. The destruction of good-paying, middle-class jobs in the steel industry can be traced back to the unfair trade practices perpetrated by Nippon Steel. The U.S. Government has properly recognized that granting increasing influence to Nippon Steel via this acquisition is a direct threat to our economy, workforce, infrastructure, and defense, all important elements of national security. Nippon Steels overproduction in their home country of Japan is at the root cause of their horrible track record of injurious trade practices in the United States. The risks of not having the deal approved were well recognized, and even David Burritt sold a chunk of his own personal stock at $50.01 on the day of the announcement, December 18, 2023. U.S. Steel made their bed when they rejected an all-American solution and insisted on pursuing a doomed-to-fail cash out sale to Nippon Steel, a company notorious for evading the trade laws in the United States. Rather than owning up to this colossal error in judgment, U.S. Steel, its CEO David Burritt, and Nippon Steel have opted for finger-pointing and legal theatrics. 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. The pan-fried pork buns at China Live in San Francisco, as seen in 2017. Dishes from the restaurant will be available at an offshoot, Asia Live, which is coming to the Westfield Valley Fair mall in Santa Clara later this year. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle The restaurateurs behind San Franciscos expansive Chinatown restaurant China Live plan to open another large scale restaurant in the Bay Area. George Chen and Cindy Wong-Chen announced they will launch their newest restaurant, Asia Live, this year at the popular Westfield Valley Fair mall in Santa Clara. The 13,000-square-foot restaurant will have 350 seats, and rather than Chinese cuisine alone, promises to serve dishes from Southeast Asia, East Asia and beyond. In a press release, Chen stated Asia Live is a natural progression following the success of China Live, his 30,000-square-foot complex at 644 Broadway, which opened in 2017. The Chinatown venue includes two restaurants China Live Restaurant and Eight Tables as well as a bar and a market stocking Chinese goods. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We transformed perceptions of Chinese cuisine in America by highlighting the rich diversity of Greater Chinas regional flavors, Chen declared in a press release, and now we aim to broaden that perspective to all of Asia. He added that he hopes to create an impact similar to his 1995 restaurant Betelnut, a major sensation that closed in 2015. Asia Live will take the two-story space left by previous tenant iChina, which offered 10-course dinners in shimmering, opulent dining rooms and lounges. It closed last year after five years in business. While other mall locations have struggled, the Westfield Valley Fair has found success particularly as a food destination in recent years, with locations of the beloved Taiwanese chain Din Tai Fung and popular Italian marketplace Eataly. Like China Live, where chefs at various glassed-in stations can be seen roasting ducks or crimping dumplings, at Asia Live there will be a variety of open kitchen preparations, including sushi stations and tandoori ovens. An Indonesian rice table will be filled with several small plates and side dishes. A marketplace restaurant and bar is described as being similar to China Lives Cold Drinks Bar. Some China Live favorites like pan-fried pork buns and Peking duck pockets will also appear on the menu. China Live chef-owner George Chen talks with servers before service at Eight Tables, a restaurant inside his San Francisco dining complex, in 2018. John Storey/Special to the Chronicle The space got a revamp following iChinas closing. The restaurateurs collaborated with architect Zac Maddry and San Franciscos DMARC studio, which previously worked on China Live. An outdoor patio will offer views of Santana Row while a roof terrace will offer wider scenes of Silicon Valley. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Chens are not stopping with their Silicon Valley restaurant. The release mentions they are still working on an upcoming Asia Live at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris. Chen is also reported to be eyeing another San Francisco location for China Live, following a drawn out legal dispute over rent for the Broadway restaurants space. Chef David Barzelay talks with customers before dinner at Lazy Bear in San Francisco in 2014. He is expanding with a new French restaurant called JouJou in the Design District. John Storey/Special to the Chronicle The team responsible for one of the Bay Areas most talked about fine-dining restaurants, the two-Michelin-star Lazy Bear, is expanding. Partners David Barzelay and Colleen Booth are opening JouJou, a grand French restaurant at 1 Henry Adams St. in San Franciscos Design District this summer. They say they want to show the city a good time, with over-the-top seafood towers, fish filleted tableside and omelets crowned with caviar in a glamorous 6,000-square-foot restaurant. Barzelay hopes JouJou will hark back to an era in American restaurants, like Jeremiah Towers landmark Stars in San Francisco or Balthazar in New York City, that embodied this sense of grandness of going out, he said. I think weve lost a lot of that, especially since the pandemic. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Just as Barzelay intended Lazy Bear to channel the experience of a dinner party into a restaurant, the chef also sees JouJou as a response to a fine-dining world thats become a little too self-referential and inwardly focused. Were not going for esoteric, boundary-pushing cuisine, he said of JouJou. Were not daring you to like anything. Were not trying to give you new and strange flavors that youve never had before. An array of dishes from JouJou, a French restaurant opening this summer in San Francisco. Courtesy of JouJou Instead, JouJou, which means toy or play thing in French, will serve primarily French cuisine with a focus on seafood. Barzelay wants to serve dishes like local king salmon almondine with dill beurre blanc, shrimp bisque, steak frites and duck a lorange. The kitchen will focus on classic sauces and preparations that are more laborious and arent often seen in San Francisco, Barzelay said. Take sand dabs, which are difficult to fillet properly before theyre cooked because of their bone structure, Barzley said; at JouJou, staff will fillet them at the table. The food may veer into some French West Indies flavors, such as tropical fruits, as well as French-influenced New Orleans dishes. The menu will offer a variety of price points, plus happy hour. A diner could have an omelet studded with crustaceans and a glass of wine at the bar for a relatively inexpensive dinner, while a large group could order a luxurious seafood tower with French fries and Champagne for a pricey night out. For dessert, think bananas foster, ice creams drizzled with liqueur and caneles. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Chef David Barzelay, right, works at a Lazy Bear dinner event in San Francisco in 2014. He is opening a new French restaurant. Sarah Rice/Special to the Chronicle JouJou takes over the former Grove space in the Design District. It will have about 120 seats, including at a raw bar, main bar, big semicircular booths and a large outdoor patio. The patio will be enclosed in a glass and metal structure like a Victorian-era greenhouse, Barzelay said. Jon de la Cruz, a well-known designer who created the look of restaurants like San Franciscos Che Fico, is designing JouJou. The direction the owners gave him, Barzelay said, is grand old belle epoque resort on the French Riviera, renovated in the sleazy 70s. Lazy Bear was born in 2009, when Barzelay, a former attorney, started hosting underground dinner parties at his San Francisco apartment. They became among the most coveted seats in the city dinners sold out within minutes and it graduated to a brick-and-mortar restaurant in the Mission District in 2014. One year later, Lazy Bear won one Michelin star, then two the following year. Barzelay later opened San Francisco cocktail bar True Laurel with bar director Nicolas Torres and the now-closed, more casual Automat with chef Matt Kirk. Barzelay operates Lazy Bear and True Laurel with Booth, who is managing partner and chief operating officer. JouJou wont be their last project, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Chef Anthony Salguero chats with diners at Popoca in Oakland, which was named one of Bon Appetits best new restaurants in the country in 2024. Adahlia Cole/Special to The Chronicle Christ Aivaliotis couldnt sleep. Once the cheerful, Hawaiian-shirt wearing owner of a tiki bar and a steakhouse in Oakland, he was now preparing to close the second of his and co-owner Matt Reagans two businesses in 18 months. And early one morning in December, he was ready to fire off some raw feelings about why. Running a bar in Oakland like the Kon-Tiki, he wrote in a profanity-laden Instagram post, was a living nightmare, full of rising costs, crime, inept bureaucrats and painfully slow nights. It has been an awful, unforgiving job running this place in this town. He signed off: Thanks everyone, WELL SEE YOU IN HELL! The post was shared widely and struck a nerve, particularly among local restaurant and bar owners who have privately grappled with the same complicated feelings about their futures in a city they love. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kon-Tiki general manager Chris Day, left, and co-owner Christ Aivaliotis work at the Oakland bar in 2020. The business closed in late 2024. Brittany Hosea-Small/Special to The Chronicle The contrast between Oaklands national food buzz and the boots-on-the-ground challenges of running a restaurant here battling the negative narrative around crime, skyrocketing costs, post-pandemic shifts, government bureaucracy is striking. (While the citys overall violent crime and property crime rose significantly during the height of the pandemic, both were down in 2024.) Oakland has long been seen as the scrappy hotbed of creativity of the Bay Areas food scene, and some of the countrys most thrilling restaurants exist here despite its challenges. But many restaurant operators say running a business in Oakland has become nearly impossible. Before hype from the Bon Appetit list flooded Popoca with diners ordering cheesy, wood-fired pupusas, owner Anthony Salguero could barely make payroll. He was thinking about closing. He later watched businesses that inspired him, like the restaurant Daytrip and the Kon-Tiki, meet that fate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad You have these amazing restaurants that are closing. Its not that theyre not good. Its that theres a systemic issue that needs to be looked at, he said. Many Oakland restaurateurs feel left behind by City Hall, which has been embroiled in crises from a $130 million budget deficit to the unprecedented recalls of both its mayor and district attorney. Reagan, co-owner of the Kon-Tiki, said hes met with city staff to advocate for support for small businesses in Oakland, and has reached out to both local and state elected officials, but no action came as a result. Pre-pandemic, the bar saw about $7,000 in sales on Friday nights. In 2024, that figure dropped by half. Trendy Temescal restaurant Daytrip experienced the rush of Bon Appetits best new restaurants list, featured in 2022 for its unusual, fermentation-driven food and worker-centric model. But in December, Daytrip closed. Their ambitious approach in both food and labor was bleeding money, the owners said. Co-owner Stella Dennig recognized her own frustrated exhaustion in the Kon-Tikis unfiltered farewell post. Every week, Dennig has spent hours painting over graffiti on Daytrips parklet, only to receive a warning from the city this past summer that the restaurant would be fined $2,000 for failing to keep it clean. Miso butter pasta at Daytrip, a wildly popular Oakland restaurant that closed in December. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle Daytrip was broken into twice, but never posted about it publicly. It felt impossible for an Instagram post about a shattered window to capture the nuanced societal issues that are linked to crime, Dennig said. She worried it would only stoke fear among customers. That sentiment was common. Many Oakland restaurant owners declined to talk on the record about crime in recent months not because it isnt affecting them, but for fear of the spiral it could cause. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All of those things definitely have an impact and are really hard to talk about without perpetuating a negative narrative thats also not the whole truth, Dennig said. But she still has hope for Oakland. Daytrip will reopen this year as a leaner, more everyday counter-service restaurant that will offer delivery and takeout and require less labor to operate. We need everyone in the city to be working for us, with us as small business owners, Dennig said. But the relationship, she suggested, is also reciprocal for the citys officials. Restaurants need to succeed for them to be perceived well, for the city to function. Frustrated restaurateurs are starting to organize among themselves. Two new groups have emerged: The Oakland Restaurant Collective, a nonprofit partnership between food businesses and the citys Chamber of Commerce thats focused on marketing efforts to change the narrative around Oakland. The new Third Space Collective, meanwhile, hopes to provide loans and other resources to restaurants and retail stores in the East Bay. The Oakland Restaurant Collective was founded by Nelson German, owner of Dominican restaurant alaMar and Latin cocktail bar Sobre Mesa; Luigi Di Ruocco of famed Oakland coffee roaster Mr. Espresso; Paul Iglesias of Parche and the soon-to-open Jaji; and Andrew Freeman, founder of restaurant marketing firm AF&Co. It was born during a networking mixer at Mr. Espresso last year, held a few days after Kaiser Permanente told its Oakland employees to avoid going out to lunch, and not long after TikTok influencer Keith Lee infamously cut short his visit to the Bay Area and In-N-Out closed in Oakland. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nelson German, chef-owner of alaMar Dominican Kitchen in Oakland, spoke out after his restaurant was broken into last year. He's one of several founders of the new Oakland Restaurant Collective. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Were not putting lipstick on a pig, Freeman said of Oaklands challenges. But the group prefers to talk about the citys positive news. An annual, national trend report from AF&Co. also declared Oakland as the food city of the year. Peter Gamez of tourism organization Visit Oakland, which has also partnered with the Oakland Restaurant Collective, said hes using the citys restaurants as a draw to target media in New York City; Washington, D.C.; Chicago and Mexico in his efforts to boost visits to Oakland. About 24 restaurants have joined the collective, which will mainly focus on marketing but also hopes to create a fund to help businesses pay for break-ins and vandalism. The storm has not passed yet, Mr. Espressos Di Ruocco said. You cant right the ship and get things back on track without being steadfast and sticking with what you know is going to ultimately win. Julia Rhodes Davis, co-owner of wine shop Oakland Yard, was spurred to action by the September closure of popular Berkeley restaurant Bartavelle. I dont want to live in a place without local businesses, and it feels like were at a tipping point, she wrote in an email that month asking fellow business owners to organize. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rhodes Davis and Elizabeth Vecchiarelli of Oakland fermentation store Preserved are leading the Third Space Collective. They see it as a mutual aid network a group that shares resources, often during a disaster or when established systems otherwise fail that will help protect the future of small, independent businesses in the East Bay, via rapid-response loans, lobbying and other support. Salvadoran restaurant Popoca was struggling to survive before earning a spot on Bon Appetits best new restaurants list in 2024. Adahlia Cole/Special to the Chronicle The founders of both new grassroots groups are all too familiar with the problems theyre trying to combat. Last spring, after two break-ins in two hours at alaMar, German took to Instagram to say that his business wouldnt recover if it didnt have a busy weekend. It wasnt the first time, he said, but it was the first time I felt really defeated. His public plea saved the restaurant. People waited over an hour to eat there that weekend, which was the busiest alaMar had been since the county first lifted COVID-19 restrictions in 2021. (Similarly, both the Kon-Tiki and Daytrip were packed during their final days.) While many business owners post about break-ins on social media, others have kept their shattered windows and doors out of the public spotlight, for fear doing so would fuel an already damaging perception about safety in Oakland. But if they dont speak out, if they dont get organized, theyll keep closing. And, yet, owners are still putting a stake in the ground in Oakland. Iglesias of Parche is gearing up to open Jaji, an ambitious Afghan restaurant in a massive space in the Uptown neighborhood. Nearby, wine bar the Punchdown just extended its lease when it expired. Others are just holding firm, if they can. Mark Liberman, whose Oakland fine-dining restaurant Mago was broken into four times in two months late last year, said he wants to open new restaurants in the city. But hes wary given still high rents and inconsistent business. CNBC's Jim Cramer on Monday laid out the bull and bear cases for Uber , and suggested that it's a good time to purchase the stock at a fairly inexpensive price. "Despite the selloff we got last quarter, there were some huge positives in this quarter if you listened to the conference call," Cramer said. "Although Uber's stock has started rebounding in the new year... It's still darned cheap versus its growth rate, and I think you're getting a great chance to buy it at a discount. That's right, the stock of Uber is a buy." After spending most of 2024 on the upswing, Uber has taken a hit over the past few months after its October quarter failed to impress Wall Street. Although it beat on revenue, the company didn't meet analysts' gross bookings expectations, and shares have sunk nearly 8% since then. Cramer looked at two recent conflicting takes on Uber the positive by Goldman Sachs ' analysts and the negative by JMP's analysts and explained why he's fairly bullish. Cramer agreed with Goldman Sachs' Eric Sheridan, who suggested that Uber can produce mid-to-high teens growth in mobility bookings over the next two to three years. Sheridan cited potential with Uber's business in less populated places both domestically and abroad, a sentiment Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi expressed during the earnings call. JMP's Andrew Boone focused his analysis on the existential threat Uber faces from the autonomous vehicle movement, especially as an administration likely to act favorably towards Tesla enters the White House. And although it's still early days for Alphabet 's self-driving car company, Waymo, Boone noted it is seeing rapid rider growth. But Sheridan predicted that Uber can achieve success in a hybrid ride sharing industry that incorporates both human and autonomous drivers. Cramer noted that Waymo already has a partnership with Uber that's set to launch in Austin and Atlanta this year. "Look, the longer-term impacts of Waymo and Tesla's robotaxi aspirations, they're worth of keeping an eye on, absolutely, he said. "But I think a lot of this handwringing about the distant future when we know Uber's prospects look great right now I'm discounting it." Uber did not immediately respond to request for comment. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang holds a Blackwell GeForce RTX 50 Series GPU (L) and a RTX 5000 laptop as he delivers a keynote address at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 6, 2025. Nvidia revealed new chips for desktop and laptop PCs on Monday that use the same Blackwell architecture underpinning the company's fastest artificial intelligence processors for servers and data centers. The chips, called GeForce RTX 50-series, will come preinstalled in computers ranging from about $550 to $2,000, the company said. Laptops with the chips will start shipping in March. Nvidia unveiled the processors at CES in Las Vegas, where CEO Jensen Huang delivered a keynote address on Monday. "Can you imagine, you have this incredible graphics card, Blackwell, I'm going to shrink it and put it in there," Huang said, holding up a laptop. Nvidia, which has soared past $3.5 trillion in market cap by selling AI chips to giant cloud vendors and other tech companies, was until the last few years known for selling graphics processing units, or GPUs, to power video games. Nvidia's first chip in late 1999 was designed to draw triangles and polygons quickly for 3D games. "Of course, back then, we were a gaming company, and these GPUs were created to accelerate games," Justin Walker, senior director of product at Nvidia, said on a press call. Wall Street is less enthused about Nvidia's gaming business these days given the explosion in AI and ever-increasing demand for more processing power. In the quarter that ended in October, Nvidia's gaming sales accounted for under 10% of total revenue, compared with 88% from data center chips. Nvidia has the vast majority of the AI GPU market for data centers, outpacing rivals Advanced Micro Devices and Intel . But CES, formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show, is all about consumer products, and the new chips announced Monday are primarily intended for gaming. Being a childcare provider requires a high level of skill, dedication and compassion to support the development, nurturing and emotional well-being of kids. Elizabeth Sanduvete I came to the United States from Mexico, like many others, in pursuit of a better future. Before immigrating, I earned a bachelors degree in communications and worked as a high school Spanish teacher. I also held roles at prestigious companies, including leading a public relations department. In Southern California, I worked in telemarketing for two years. Then, in 2005, a friend who was a nanny told me about a family looking for support with their two young children and a newborn on the way. Even though they knew it would be my first experience as a nanny, they decided to give me a chance which is how I discovered my passion and mission in childcare. Twenty years into this work, I have become an educator and advocate for childcare providers, helping professionalize the field. I want people to know that this profession requires a high level of skill, dedication and compassion. Its not just about watching children; its about supporting their development, nurturing their emotional well-being and creating a safe environment where they can thrive. At the same time, you need to have the right tools, education and support to care for parents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I didnt understand all this instantly. In my first job, I wanted to make a good impression so I often said yes to tasks outside my role, like deep cleaning the house or running errands unrelated to childcare. I eventually realized that saying yes to everything was leading to burnout. Now, I am much clearer about my responsibilities. I prioritize tasks related to the childrens care and development while being open to helping occasionally in other ways when needed within reason. As I have grown in the profession, I am particularly proud of the role I play in helping new parents who often feel nervous and unsure gain confidence. I start by listening to their concerns and validating their feelings, letting them know its completely normal to feel overwhelmed. Then, I guide them, step-by-step, through tasks like diaper changes, feeding and soothing techniques, always encouraging them to try things themselves while Im there to support them. I focus on celebrating their wins like successfully calming their baby or recognizing their babys cues so they start to see their own strengths as caregivers. I also emphasize that no one knows their baby better than they do. While I share evidence-based advice and tips, I make it clear that my role is to support them, not to replace their instincts. Over time, as they become more comfortable and confident, I take a step back, encouraging them to take the lead. I worked for my first family for seven years, but my average job today lasts six months. Job insecurity is a challenge for everyone in this field. Early in my career, there were moments when I had to accept jobs with lower pay just to make ends meet. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I saw how many nannies were left without work, and I realized that once things reopened, they would need to be better prepared and equipped with educational tools to enhance their services and increase their chances of getting hired. My best friend Kelly Rodas and I founded Cuidando Angeles Newborn Care Specialists, a training business to support our friends and others in the nanny community. Recognizing the need for accessible, high-quality training for Spanish-speaking caregivers, I approached the Newborn Care Specialist Association and the U.S. Nanny Association to advocate for training programs in Spanish. Over 11 months, I designed a comprehensive, interactive Spanish-language curriculum that adhered to the rigorous requirements of both associations. Throughout the process, I worked to ensure the course was culturally appropriate and clear for Spanish-speaking caregivers. In March 2021, both the Newborn Care Specialist Association and U.S. Nanny Association officially recognized my program. Since then, our business has offered accredited courses for Latina nannies in the U.S. Accreditation and education lead to higher income (many nannies in my network have doubled their hourly pay) and elevate the work while providing stability and a pathway for growth. The caregivers we work with have been frustrated by the lack of access to educational resources, limited career growth opportunities and the struggle to balance work with personal life. Navigating language barriers, cultural differences and sometimes the fear of discrimination can add extra stress. Many feel isolated or unsupported, especially in settings where theres little recognition of their skills or the emotional demands of their work. We create a supportive community with training sessions, workshops and one-on-one support where caregivers can connect, share experiences and learn from one another. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies We need other partners in this work. Stronger legal protections should ensure fair wages, paid sick leave, health benefits and job security for all caregivers, as well as provide protections for undocumented workers, who face unique vulnerabilities. Employers can also help by respecting caregivers as professionals, acknowledging their expertise and contributions to a familys well-being and accepting clear boundaries around caregivers responsibilities. In this article TM Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT After Akio Toyoda, CEO and President of Toyota, announced he was stepping down on Thursday, he shared his advice to his successor and his business philosophy. Photo by Yoshikazu Tsuno | Gamma-rapho | Getty Images LAS VEGAS Toyota Motor is exploring the development and production of orbital rockets, Chairman Akio Toyoda said Monday. The automaker, through its "Woven by Toyota" mobility company, is investing 7 billion yen ($44.4 million) into Interstellar Technologies Inc., a Japanese private spaceflight company developing launch vehicles for satellites. Toyoda, former CEO and scion of the automaker, said there shouldn't only be "one car company" referring to Tesla , whose CEO Elon Musk also leads SpaceX working on the development of such technologies. "We are exploring rockets too, because the future of mobility shouldn't be limited to just earth or just one car company, for that matter," Toyoda said during a news conference for CES in Las Vegas. Founded in 2013, Interstellar Technologies has performed seven launches of its small suborbital MOMO rockets, which reached space for the first time in 2019. The startup has yet to deploy a satellite in orbit, with plans to develop the larger ZERO and DECA line of rockets for delivering spacecraft. Toyota said the company expects to leverage its experience with the mass production of vehicles for the production of rockets with Interstellar Technologies. In the Japanese launch market, Toyota is taking on Mitsubishi, whose subsidiary Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has developed and launched the H3 series of rockets for JAXA, the country's space agency. Mitsubishi's H3 rocket, which debuted several years behind schedule, was intended to be priced competitively with SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets, which dominate the current global launch market. Woven City All but one of the human bird flu infections confirmed so far in the U.S. were diagnosed in the last 10 months, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most cases have been relatively mild, with symptoms including pinkeye, coughs or sneezes. "The Department expresses its deepest condolences to the patient's family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one," it said in a statement. "Due to patient confidentiality and respect for the family, this will be the final update about the patient." The Louisiana Department of Health said the patient had been exposed to a combination of a backyard flock and wild birds. The patient, who was over 65 and had underlying medical conditions, was hospitalized in Louisiana in December ; the case was considered the country's first severe human H5N1 infection. The U.S. has recorded its first human death from bird flu , a grim milestone that comes as at least 67 cases have been recorded in the country. The majority of the patients became sick after exposure to infected cattle or poultry. The Louisiana patient was the first case linked to exposure to a backyard flock. Just two cases have involved patients who did not have known exposure to animals. One was a person in Missouri who was hospitalized with bird flu in September but recovered after being treated with antiviral medications. The other was a child in California who experienced mild symptoms in November. The CDC maintains that the immediate risk to public health is low. Public health officials have not found any evidence that the virus has spread person-to-person, which would mark a dire step in bird flu's evolution. "While tragic, a death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States is not unexpected because of the known potential for infection with these viruses to cause severe illness and death," the agency said in a statement on Monday. "There are no concerning virologic changes actively spreading in wild birds, poultry, or cows that would raise the risk to human health," the statement added. However, samples of the virus collected from the Louisiana patient showed signs of mutations that could make it more transmissible to humans, according to the agency. The strain of bird flu behind the ongoing outbreak began spreading globally among wild birds and poultry in 2020. Since it took root in the U.S. in 2022, more than 130 million birds have been infected or culled. The virus has also spread to dairy cows and other mammals. More than 900 bird flu cases have been detected in cattle since March. Rising transmission among animals increases the odds that humans could be exposed and that the virus could mutate in ways that could lead to a pandemic. Bird flu appears to spread efficiently on dairy farms, likely because cows shed the virus through their mammary glands, then infect other animals through their raw milk. The virus has also turned up in wastewater in several states, including in sites without dairy or poultry facilities. For people concerned about bird flu risk, the CDC advises against drinking unpasteurized raw milk and suggests avoiding contact with sick or dead animals. Workers on poultry or dairy farms affected by H5N1 should wear personal protective equipment and monitor for symptoms. The federal response to bird flu ramped up a month ago, when the U.S. Department of Agriculture ordered testing of the national milk supply, starting in six states. The Biden administration also set aside $306 million last week for additional surveillance, laboratory testing and medical research for bird flu. But some experts have criticized the U.S.'s response for being too slow or limited. "The Biden administration has been mishandling the outbreak in cattle for months, increasing the possibility of a dangerous, wider spread," two former Food and Drug Administration officials wrote in an editorial in The Washington Post on Friday. If one of your goals this year is to strengthen your relationships, Adam Grant has some book recommendations for you. The Wharton organizational psychologist and best-selling author released his list of books to "feed your mind" in the upcoming year, and dedicated an entire section to relationships and communication. "As I reviewed this winter's new releases, I had three filters: screen out what's inaccurate, impractical, and uninteresting," he wrote in his newsletter Granted. "My recommended reads to start 2025 are brimming with thought-provoking ideas and data pointsand they won't put you to sleep." Here are four books Grant says can help you improve your communication and relationships. Rescue teams stand amid rubble in the aftermath of an earthquake in a location given as Shigatse City, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, January 7, 2025, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video. HONG KONG A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck near one of Tibet's holiest cities Tuesday, killing at least 126 people, Chinese state media reported. The earthquake, which was recorded just after 9 a.m. (8 p.m. ET Monday), was centered at a depth of nearly 6 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor, which Chinese authorities recorded as magnitude 6.8, hit Dingri County in Shigatse, a mountainous region in western China that borders Nepal. Shigatse, which is about 240 miles from the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, is the seat of the Panchen Lama, the second most important spiritual figure in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama. At least 126 people were killed, according to Xinhua, China's state-run news agency, with 130 others injured. Many houses near the epicenter collapsed and some people were trapped. About 6,900 people live in more than two dozen villages within about 12 miles of the epicenter, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported. The flimsy construction of homes near the epicenter was one reason for the high number of casualties, residents in the area said. A roundtrip flight leaving on April 1 and returning a week later was showing as $38 on Frontier's website for a basic ticket, which doesn't include a seat assignment or carry-on bag and is nonrefundable. The same trip on those dates on American, which includes a carry-on bag and a nonalcoholic beverage and snack, was going for $142. The airline plans to launch service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and Miami International Airport on March 30. Discount carrier Frontier Airlines is beefing up service in New York, planning new nonstop routes to major American Airlines hubs with fares starting under $20. Frontier has a base in Miami, but the airport is dominated by American. Frontier is also launching flights between New York's Kennedy Airport and Dallas/Fort Worth four times a week, starting April 22. On May 1, it plans to start daily nonstops between JFK and Los Angeles International Airport. Frontier has less than a 1% market share of the capacity out of the three main airports serving the New York City area, according to analytics firm Cirium. It launched JFK service last June and with this spring's adds, it will have eight flights out of the airport. Frontier has been upbeat about its expansion and said it plans to get back to generating double-digit profit margins around mid-2025. The ultra-low-cost carrier's shares are up 17% since the start of the year, and it raised its outlook for the fourth quarter from as little as breakeven to a 4% pretax margin. U.S. stocks ended 2024 on a high, with the S & P 500 finishing last year with gains of over 23%. While funds tracking the major indices will have logged similar returns, a handful of actively managed ETFs marketed in Europe outperformed, including JPMorgan's US Research Enhanced Index Equity ETF and Invesco's Quantitative Strategies ESG Global Equity Multi-Factor ETF. CNBC Pro screened 321 ETFs in Europe that are invested in equities, fixed income, or commodities, and are not leveraged or produced inverse returns. JEUS JPMorgan's US Research Enhanced Index Equity SRI Paris Aligned UCITS ETF was the best performing ETF and gained 30.3% in 2024. It is among a new breed of funds offered by the Wall Street bank that combines passive and active investment management styles. The fund's euro-denominated currency unhedged variant is listed in Germany with the ticker JEUS. JPMorgan Asset Management says the fund is "actively investing primarily in a portfolio of U.S. companies while aligning with the objectives of the Paris Agreement." The 2015 Paris Agreement climate change treaty outlines a long-term objective to ensure global warming stays "well below" 2 degrees Celsius and to "pursue efforts" to limit the temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. IQSA Invesco's Quantitative Strategies ESG Global Equity Multi-Factor UCITS ETF missed the top spot marginally, with a return of 29.9% in 2024. The fund, also listed in Germany, has $921 million in assets. Unlike the JPMorgan fund, Invesco's ETF is invested globally with a 70% allocation to the U.S. Among the fund's top non-U.S. stocks are Royal Bank of Canada and Ireland's Trane Technologies . Since its inception five years ago, the ETF has also outperformed its MSCI World Total Return benchmark for the last four years. The other ETFs making up the top 5 best performing in 2024 were Ossiam US ESG Low Carbon Equity Factors UCITS ETF, JPMorgan's Japan Research Enhanced Index Equity and Fidelity Sustainable Research Enhanced US Equity UCITS ETF. CNBC's Sam Meredith contributed to this report. The United States has some of the most congested cities in the world for yet another year. INRIX, a transportation analytics company, released its 2024 Global Traffic Scorecard which ranks the most congested cities in America by measuring the change in average peak period travel times across more than 22 months. The report found that the typical U.S. driver lost 43 hours to traffic congestion, up one hour from 2023. That's the equivalent of about a full work week and amounts to $771 in lost time. Overall, congestion cost the U.S. more than four billion hours lost or $74 billion in lost time. Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, tells CNBC Make It that this year's report shows that congestion levels are returning to what they were in 2019 or before the covid-19 pandemic. "Traffic congestion before covid was pretty high on people's list of concerns and then during covid that fell, but now it's starting to bubble up again, which is not good but also just shows that we're kind of going back to how we used to do things," Pishue says. The U.S. city with the worst traffic: New York City For the second year in a row, New York City ranked as the most congested city in the U.S., according to INRIX. On a global scale, the Big Apple ranked No. 2 after Istanbul, Turkey. New York City, New York Alan Schein | The Image Bank | Getty Images Drivers in NYC lost 102 hours to traffic jams, compared to 101 in 2023. These delays cost the average driver $1,826 and the city $9.5 billion, according to the INRIX report. Pishue says New York City's downtown and congestion bounced back faster than other major metros like San Francisco and Washington D.C. "New York came back a lot quicker than a lot of other major downtowns because of the diversity of their economy. It's not just one or two industries," he adds. On January 5, New York City introduced congestion pricing. Many drivers entering Manhattan's congestion relief zone south of 60th street will be charged a once-per-day toll of $9 during peak hours between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. Overnight, the toll price drops to $2.25. "If you're driving in New York, it's brutal, there's no question about it. The city knows it has a congested downtown, and the congestion pricing reflects that it is at least trying something to mitigate a lot of the traffic around there," Pishue says. New York City introduced congestion pricing on January 5, 2025. Newsday Llc | Newsday | Getty Images Since congestion pricing has only just started, Pishue says instead of waiting to see if it will help decrease traffic the key is for New York City to ensure it has a robust transit network. "[Congestion pricing] will price some trips off the road, and that's not good for the economy. You want to accommodate trips and not necessarily eliminate them," he says. "If you can't accommodate them due to traffic congestion, there's got to be a robust transportation network to capture those other modes of transit." Top 10 U.S. cities with the worst traffic New York City Chicago, Ill. Los Angeles, Calif. Boston, Mass. Philadelphia, Pa. Miami, Fla. Houston, Texas Atlanta, Ga. Washington D.C. Seattle, Wash. Like last year, Chicago ranked as the second most congested city in the U.S. and No. 3 globally, after New York City. Chicago, Illinois Andrey Denisyuk | Moment | Getty Images Remember when Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg were going to fight each other in a cage match, after Zuckerberg launched "Threads" a couple of years ago? It wasn't just their physical prowess being tested, it was also a symbolic battle between the tech world's Left and Right. "[They] have become proxies for a lot of civic, political, social issues," one professor said at the time. Well, the fight never happened. But in the business world, you could now argue that Musk has won. Zuckerberg has just come out with a series of major changes that his company, Meta, will start making to its Facebook and Instagram platforms. In a nutshell, the platforms are going "back to their roots of free expression," Zuckerberg said in a five-minute video posted this morning. What does that mean in practice? "We're going to get rid of fact checkers, and replace them with Community Notes, similar to X," Zuckerberg said. That's a direct embrace of Musk's approach to content moderation on X (formerly known as Twitter). "The fact-checkers are too politically biased, and have destroyed more trust than they have created," Zuckerberg explained--which is exactly what Musk and other critics of the platforms have complained about for years. Meta will also be getting rid of restrictions on topics like gender and immigration that "have become out of step with mainstream discourse," Zuckerberg said. Its filters will now focus primarily on "illegal and high-security violations" instead of hot-button social issues. "By dialing them back, we're going to dramatically reduce the amount of censorship on our platforms," Zuckerberg added. In addition, Meta is bringing back "civic content"--in other words, posts about politics. "We stopped recommending these posts," because they were making people "stressed," Zuckerberg said. "But it feels like we're in a new era now...and people want to see this content again." And finally, he's moving the content moderation team out of California to Texas (Musk is already relocating his companies there) in order to build the public's trust that they won't be biased. On top of all that, Zuckerberg is adding Dana White--a big Trump supporter and donor who was supposed to officiate the cage match that never happened--to Meta's board. Elections indeed have consequences. But there is a larger fight beginning to emerge here, and an extremely important one. "We are going to work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies, and trying to censor more," Zuckerberg said in the video. "Europe," he said, "has an ever-increasing number of laws institutionalizing censorship, and making it difficult to build anything innovative there." Latin America has secret courts to censor content, and China's simply bans Meta's apps, he added. "That's why it's been so difficult over the past four years, when even the U.S. government has pushed for censorship. By going after us, and other American companies, it has emboldened other governments to go even further." "Now, we have the opportunity to restore free expression, and I am excited to take it," Zuckerberg said. Here's the problem: no other countries he mentioned are remotely interested in that happening. Musk is the ire of Britain's prime minister this very moment for his comments on X about their "grooming gangs" scandal. Last summer, the European Commissioner warned Musk that simply broadcasting his interview with candidate Trump on X to Europeans could violate their "Digital Services Act." If Zuckerberg truly believes in protecting free expression globally, outside of U.S. legal jurisdiction, he has some very big battles to fight. If he settles for freer expression in the U.S., only to reverse course if the political winds change again, then he will simply be remembered as a shape-shifting businessman. See you at 1 p.m! Kelly Click HERE to sign up for this newsletter in one easy step. To hear this as a podcast, subscribe to "The Exchange" and pick "From the desk of..." Twitter: @KellyCNBC Instagram: @realkellyevans This photo illustration created Jan. 7, 2025, shows an image of Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, and an image of the Meta logo. Meta employees took to their internal forum Tuesday, criticizing the company's decision to end third-party fact-checking on its services two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. Employees voiced their concern after Joel Kaplan, Meta's new chief global affairs officer and former White House deputy chief of staff under former President George W. Bush, announced the content policy changes on Workplace, the in-house communications tool. "We're optimistic that these changes help us return to that fundamental commitment to free expression," Kaplan wrote in the post, which was reviewed by CNBC. The content policy announcement follows a string of decisions that appear targeted to appease the incoming administration. On Monday, Meta added new members to its board, including UFC CEO Dana White, a longtime friend of Trump, and the company confirmed in December that it was contributing $1 million to Trump's inauguration. Among the latest changes, Kaplan announced that Meta will scrap its fact-checking program and shift to a user-generated system like X's Community Notes. Kaplan, who took over his new role last week, also said that Meta will lift restrictions on certain topics and focus its enforcement on illegal and high-severity violations while giving users "a more personalized approach to political content." One worker wrote they were "extremely concerned" about the decision, saying it appears Meta is "sending a bigger, stronger message to people that facts no longer matter, and conflating that with a victory for free speech." Another employee commented that "simply absolving ourselves from the duty to at least try to create a safe and respective platform is a really sad direction to take." Other comments expressed concern about the impact the policy change could have on the discourse around topics such as immigration, gender identity and gender, which, according to one employee, could result in an "influx of racist and transphobic content." A separate employee said they were scared that "we're entering into really dangerous territory by paving the way for the further spread of misinformation." The changes weren't universally criticized, as some Meta workers congratulated the company's decision to end third-party fact checking. One wrote that X's Community Notes feature has "proven to be a much better representation of the ground truth." Another employee commented that the company should "provide an accounting of the worst outcomes of the early years" that necessitated the creation of a third-party fact-checking program and whether the new policies would prevent the same type of fallout from happening again. As part of the company's massive layoffs in 2023, Meta also scrapped an internal fact-checking project, CNBC reported. That project would have let third-party fact checkers such as the Associated Press and Reuters, in addition to credible experts, comment on flagged articles in order to verify the content. Although Meta announced the end of its fact-checking program Tuesday, the company had already been pulling it back. In September, a spokesperson for the AP told CNBC that the news agency's "fact-checking agreement with Meta ended back in January" 2024. This picture taken on Feb. 16, 2024 shows a logo of Nippon Steel Corp. at the company's Kyushu manufacturing base in Kitakyushu city of Fukuoka Prefecture. U.S. President Joe Biden plans to express concern over Nippon Steel's proposed $14.9 billion purchase of U.S. Steel, a person familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, pushing the U.S. company's stock nearly 13% lower on bets the deal could face greater political opposition. Japan's Nippon Steel CEO reiterated Tuesday that the company was not giving up on its takeover of U.S. Steel, a day after it sued the Joe Biden administration over blocking the proposed merger. U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel announced Monday that they had initiated two lawsuits following the Biden administration's decision to block Nippon Steel's $14.9 billion acquisition of the American steelmaker. In a statement accompanying the lawsuits, the two companies said they remained confident that the deal was "the best path forward to secure the future of U. S. Steel" and emphasized their right to pursue the merger. At a press conference on Tuesday, Nippon Steel's chairman and CEO Eiji Hashimoto doubled down on that stance. "There is no reason or need to give up on (the takeover). We simply cannot accept it," Hashimoto said at the press conference. According to Reuters' translations, Hashimoto emphasized that he would never give up on expanding operations in the U.S., and was not considering any alternative plan aside from the company's current pursuit of U.S. Steel. Last Friday, Biden officially blocked Japan's Nippon Steel from acquiring U.S. Steel, fulfilling his pledge to keep an industrial name that is over a century old under U.S. ownership. Kevin Ortiz, pictured here in 2023, is getting his job back as head of the San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club after an internal investigation did not find enough evidence to substantiate allegations of sexual assault, the group said Monday. Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle 2023 The head of a San Francisco political club is getting his job back after an internal investigation did not find enough evidence to substantiate allegations of sexual assault, the group said Monday. San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club Co-President Kevin Ortiz stepped down from his post last year after a Chronicle investigation in which two women one named and another anonymous accused him of sexual assault and other misconduct. Ortiz, a former staffer for Rep. Nancy Pelosi, denied the allegations and said that his encounters with the women were consensual. On Monday, the Latinx Democratic Club issued a statement saying that its internal investigation did not support the allegations against Ortiz and that he was returning to his role as president of the political body. Ortiz has not yet commented on his reinstatement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The club did not have a formalized investigative process when the allegations of sexual assault surfaced, prompting it to form a special investigative committee of members, along with experts on sexual assault and harassment, according to the clubs scope of investigation. The political club also created a code of conduct agreement in response to the scandal, according to the groups statement. Zahra Hajee, a former aide to Supervisor Rafael Mandelman and Sen. Alex Padilla, has accused San Francisco Latinx Democratic Club leader Kevin Ortiz of sexual assault. An internal investigation by the group found insufficient evidence, though Hajee did not participate. Jen Osborne/Special to the Chronicle On Monday, Zahra Hajee, one of the women who accused Ortiz of misconduct, criticized the SFLDCs investigation as a unified effort to keep abusers in power. Hajee told the Chronicle that Ortiz sexually assaulted her during encounters at her apartment in March and April 2021, soon after they met. She also reported the assaults to police, the newspaper reported in July. It is upsetting yet unsurprising to see SFLDCs lack of courage by reinstating the man who sexually assaulted me as their organizations leader, Hajee said in an emailed statement. Hajee, a former aide to city Supervisor Rafael Mandelman and U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, said she declined to participate in the SFLDCs investigation. She said the organization is using its platform not to advance protections for survivors but instead consistently and publicly advocate for consequences for false reporting, a move that she said made clear to me that the investigation process was biased and would trivialize my own experience coming forward. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The other woman, whom the Chronicle did not name and who accused Ortiz of misconduct, said Monday she didnt know the club was conducting an investigation into the allegations against Ortiz. The woman said she had not been contacted. Officials from the SFLDC did not immediately respond to questions about why the second woman apparently was not contacted. I dont know how they can do an investigation without hearing from anyone who Kevin assaulted, she said. They only heard from Kevin, so this isnt an investigation. It seems like this was the outcome the SFLDC wanted to have. The only way to exonerate Kevin is to make sure Im not involved thats what they did. The clubs internal investigation came after Co-President Deldelp Medina penned a Medium post saying she had resigned her position with a heavy heart just two days after the Chronicle published its article about Ortiz. Imagine you could turn back the clock and put money into Nvidia when Jensen Huang was first dreaming up the chipmaker at a Denny's in Silicon Valley. Or into Facebook before Mark Zuckerberg found a way to generate revenue from all the eyeballs on his social network. You'd be extremely rich. But for every Nvidia or Facebook, there are many more flameouts. Some hardly get off the ground, while others raise money at lofty valuations before vanishing into obscurity. And sometimes there's lots of drama. It's as much a part of the fabric of Silicon Valley as the enigmatic billionaire founders, though not every scandal makes the front page. Denis Grosz and Taso Du Val exist in that realm of startup lore. More than twelve years ago, Grosz, a Bay Area tech investor, put money into a tiny but profitable startup with a novel mission: Matching talented freelancers around the world with companies looking for the most affordable skilled labor. A few years later, Grosz told other investors he expected a healthy return on his early bet. The company was called Toptal, which is short for top talent, and his investment marked the beginning of a soap opera that has soiled reputations, caused turmoil within a promising startup, and sparked a battle that today is raging in court. Du Val is founder and CEO of Toptal. He launched the company in 2010 after working engineering jobs at other startups. Du Val didn't go to college, deciding instead to gamble on himself. Taso Du Val, the founder and CEO of Toptal, sits down with CNBC's Jon Fortt. CNBC Toptal got speedy traction, and Du Val was determined to run it as a lean operation. Less than two years in, word of the company's success started getting out, and financial backers began looking to invest. Then Du Val met Grosz through a mutual friend. Du Val describes Grosz as a sophisticated investor, having backed startups including Thumbtack, Udemy, and Apartment List, according to Grosz's website. The two men were on a mission together to turn the tiny business with fewer than 50 employees into an industry powerhouse. In 2012, Grosz loaned Toptal $1 million at a 4% interest and also signed an advisor agreement with the company that stated that Grosz was prohibited from "competing or preparing to compete" with Toptal and from "soliciting any employee or consultant" of the company. As an advisor to Toptal, Du Val said Grosz provided expertise on search engine optimization to assist growth. And the company grew. Du Val says Toptal now has more than 600 employees. By 2021, the business was generating more than $200 million in annual revenue and was valued as high as $3.6 billion, court documents show. In addition to the advisor agreement, Grosz signed a second agreement with Toptal called a convertible promissory note. According to this document, Grosz's million-dollar loan could convert into shares of Toptal, but only if certain conditions were met. One of the stipulations was that an equity capital raise needed to occur before the loan's maturity date to trigger the conversion of the loan to equity. Grosz claims he had a handshake agreement with Du Val: Toptal would convert from a limited liability company to a C-Corporation in the process of raising equity. If this happened, it would convert Grosz's loan into a stake in the company. However, it didn't take place before the maturity date in May 2014. So, Du Val maintained 100% control of the company, and he says Grosz had no legal claim to an ownership stake. Grosz disagrees. In 2023, Grosz argued in court that Du Val built a successful company with the help of early employees and investors, who all expected equity in exchange for their efforts. He testified that Du Val repeatedly assured him that the million-dollar loan would become a stake in the company. Denis Grosz, a Silicon Valley investor, in the Second Judicial District Court in Nevada. David Mayers U.S. President-elect Donald Trump gestures as he makes remarks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S. Jan. 7, 2025. President-elect Donald Trump warned Tuesday that "all hell will break out in the Middle East" if Hamas does not release the hostages it is holding in Gaza by the time he is inaugurated on Jan. 20. "And it will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good frankly for anyone," Trump said at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida. "We want to get back those hostages for Israel and for us," Trump said. "You know, we do have people that are hostages being held," he said "And I'll just say it again, if this deal is not done with the people representing our nation, by the time I get to office, all hell is going to break out." Trump did not specify what action he would take if the hostages were not released. Nearly 100 hostages are believed to remain in captivity in Gaza, with some of those people presumed to be dead. Hamas on Monday released a list with the names of 34 hostages that the group said it is willing to release in the first stage of a possible ceasefire agreement with Israel. Trump reissued his warning as Steve Witkoff, his designated envoy to the Middle East, told reporters that there has been "a lot of progress" in negotiations in Doha, Qatar, to win the release of hostages seized during the terror group's deadly Oct. 7, 2023, incursion into Israel. "I believe we've been on the verge of it," said Witkoff, after Trump spotted him in the back of the room and called him up to the podium to speak. Witkoff said he expected to fly back to Doha on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. It was unclear what role Witkoff was playing in any talks, given that Trump does not take office for another two weeks, and Witkoff is not formally a U.S. government representative. Earlier Tuesday, Hamas said it was standing by its demand that Israel fully end military operations against Gaza as part of any deal to release the hostages. Israel, in turn, says the war will continue until the hostages are released and Hamas is dismantled, according to Reuters news service. A new Wall Street analyst report says investors should sell Apple stock. Jim Cramer thinks otherwise. The news MoffettNathanson downgraded Apple stock to sell from neutral Tuesday and cut its price target to $188 per share from $202 implying roughly 23% downside from Monday's close. The analysts pointed to concerns about Apple's prospects in China and the U.S. government's antitrust action against its search partner Google, owned by fellow Club name Alphabet . "A Federal Judge (Amit Mehta) had declared the payments Google makes to Apple each year for Google's preferred (default) search position to be illegal. Apple's position in China has steadily weakened," the analysts wrote in a note to clients. "While the incoming Trump Administration is likely to exempt Apple from import tariffs, there is a genuine risk that Apple will be targeted with retaliatory tariffs in countries negatively impacted by U.S. import duties in unrelated categories." MoffettNathanson also cited a "lukewarm response from consumers" to Apple's new suite of generative artificial intelligence features for the iPhone and other devices. "Not only have we not seen any sign of an upgrade cycle ... but we have seen growing evidence that consumers are unmoved by AI functionality." The AI tools, dubbed Apple Intelligence, are available on new iPhone 16 models, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, and certain iPads and Macs. In addition, the analysts wrote, "Over the past two months, Apple's shares have resumed their ascent, and the valuation gap between Apple and the S & P has inflected higher." Big picture Sell ratings on Apple shares are rare, and this one comes after the stock's largely stellar performance in 2024. Shares jumped 30.1% last year, compared to the S & P 500's 23.3% gains. Most of Apple's gains come in the second half of 2024, though, ignited by optimism around Apple Intelligence. Investors have expected that AI integration could give device sales a much-needed boost as users trade up to newer iPhone 16s. AAPL 1Y mountain Apple performance over the past 12 months While the slower-than-initially-expected rollout of AI on iPhones has pushed back the refresh cycle, it might serve to elongate it and actually benefit Apple sales in the longer run. Apple shares closed at a record high of $259.02 each on Dec. 26. Since then, however, the stock has retreated more than 5%. In the early days of 2025, Apple has dropped about 3%. Bottom line Pushing back on MoffettNathanson's sell call and AI criticism, Jim argued that Apple didn't have to accrue massive costs from developing and adopting artificial intelligence like its Magnificent Seven peers did. That's because Apple utilizes OpenAI's industry-leading large language models. "Apple is the free rider of all time," Jim said on Tuesday. "They didn't have to spend anything on AI. It's brilliant." OpenAI is backed by Club name Microsoft . Jim also dismissed concerns about the U.S. government's regulatory scrutiny of Google, which could threaten $25 billion annually in search payments to Apple. The litigation could take years to play out in the courts. It's too soon, therefore, for investors to make a decision based on the case. The Club reiterated our "own it, don't trade it" thesis on the stock. We won't blame anyone for taking profits in Apple stock or trimming based on the need to manage the size of their positions. It's what we did in late December when we offloaded some Apple shares for a big profit and brought the weight of the position back below 6%. After all, we don't want any one stock to have too much influence on the entire portfolio. In the latest Apple trade alert, we wrote, "That discipline trumps conviction an important part of our modus operandi that we actually started the year off discussing . It's fitting that we should close out a great 2024 with exactly that in mind." On the first trading day of 2024, we trimmed Apple and a bunch of other huge 2023 winners. It coincided with a Barclays downgrade of Apple to sell and a slew of cautious Wall Street analyst commentary . While the stock eventually hit a 52-week low of $164 in mid-April, an in-depth look back in October at Apple sell calls in recent years revealed that it's been a fool's errand to try to time when to get out and when to get back in as the stock continued to make higher lows and higher highs. Jim said that's why he advocates holding Apple and not trying to play the market timing game. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long AAPL, GOOGL, MSFT. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Apple CEO Tim Cook gives an interview at the Fifth Avenue Apple Store on new products launch day in New York City on Sept. 20, 2024. Michael M. Santiago | Getty Images News | Getty Images 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. San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie addresses the crowd outside Ocean Beach Cafe during an Ocean Beach Clean-up event in the Outer Richmond neighborhood on Saturday, Jan. 4. His inauguration is on Wednesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Daniel Lurie is about to complete his transformation from a wealthy but politically inexperienced nonprofit founder into the most powerful person in San Francisco, becoming the citys next mayor at a crucial juncture in its history. When he is inaugurated Wednesday at a ceremony in Civic Center Plaza, Lurie will enter office with broad political support as moderate and progressive leaders all profess a desire to work with him. But it remains unclear how effectively Lurie will be able to marshal that goodwill to address the myriad issues that plague the city, from open-air drug dealing to an ailing downtown thats partly to blame for the whopping $876 million two-year deficit that Lurie will have to close in his first budget. Lurie campaigned on bold promises to grow the citys homeless shelter system, shut down drug markets, expand the police force and broadly shake up the status quo at City Hall that he blamed for allowing San Franciscos problems to fester. Ideologically, he differed little from the incumbent he unseated, London Breed, but he argued that she had failed to manage the city well and that an outsiders perspective was necessary to turn things around. On Wednesday, Lurie will begin the difficult task of trying to turn his campaign rhetoric into reality. So far, hes tried to establish productive relationships with everyone in city politics, including the Board of Supervisors, which will have five new members nearly half the legislative body. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lurie stood with three members of the incoming board Rafael Mandelman, Jackie Fielder and Matt Dorsey at a packed Mannys event space in the Mission District on Sunday. Speaking to volunteers who showed up to help pick up trash in the neighborhood, Lurie declared an end to the citys fractious political climate thats long been likened to a knife fight in a phone booth. We are going to find common ground, Lurie said. Were not going to agree on everything thats OK. But were going to do it respectfully. Were going to work together, because thats what you all voted on in November. San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie speaks with members of the press during the Ingleside Cleanup event on Saturday, Jan. 4. Though ideologically, Lurie differed little from the incumbent he unseated, London Breed, he argued that an outsiders perspective was necessary to turn the citys problems around. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Corey Cook, a politics professor at St. Marys College in Moraga, described the role of San Francisco mayor as one of the toughest jobs in politics due to the complexity of the local bureaucracy and the enormity of the obstacles facing the city. It is a notoriously difficult job. I have high expectations in that I think (Lurie) has a lot of ability, Cook said. He does bring a different perspective to City Hall, and that obviously did resonate with voters, but by no means does that mean its an easy path for him. Cook said voters shouldnt expect Lurie to come in and wave a magic wand, but he will bring a new perspective and different leaders into his administration. Its a question of how willing are other folks members of the Board of Supervisors and other elected officials to work with the new mayor to help make progress on some of these seemingly intractable issues in San Francisco, Cook said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Since defeating Breed in November, Lurie has said little about the specific actions he plans to take after he is sworn in, though thats expected to change on Wednesday. Instead, Lurie has spent the last two months attending community events and staffing up the team of advisers that will help him execute his plans. Those plans include implementing a new organizational structure in the mayors office by adding four new policy chiefs, each of whom will be responsible for closely coordinating with a specific group of departments. The idea is to make City Hall function more efficiently by giving senior city staff greater responsibility over a more limited portfolio, rather than having dozens of departments report to a single chief of staff. Lurie on Tuesday named the final chief, Kunal Modi, to spearhead health, homelessness and family services efforts in his administration. Modi will coordinate with the public health, human services, homelessness and early childhood departments, among others. He is currently a partner at the consulting firm McKinsey & Co., where he has worked with government departments and technology companies. He has also served on the boards of St. Anthonys and Larkin Street Youth Services. The announcement came one day after Lurie announced that Alicia John-Baptiste, would be his chief working with departments related to infrastructure, climate and mobility. John-Baptiste is currently the president and CEO of the urban think tank SPUR, which recommended in a report last year that the San Francisco mayors office be reorganized similarly to the way Lurie has envisioned. In her newly created role, John-Baptiste will coordinate with the Municipal Transportation Agency, the Public Utilities Commission, the port and the Public Works, parks and environment departments. Lurie previously named Paul Yep, a former San Francisco police commander, to be his chief of public safety, and Ned Segal, a former chief financial officer of Twitter, to be chief of housing and economic development. His team has not yet said how much the city will pay the four new policy chiefs, all of whom will work alongside Luries chief of staff, Staci Slaughter, a former San Francisco Giants executive. Aside from staffing up his own office, however, Lurie has not yet announced any leadership changes to city departments. During the campaign, Lurie said hed effectively make city department heads re-interview for their jobs, and he told reporters on Sunday that those conversations had been unfolding privately in recent weeks and they were going well. He said he was planning a major staff meeting on Thursday. I know theyre working hard, Lurie said of the department leaders. As much as that work is continuing, they also understand that things arent working and that they need to be held accountable. And theyre excited about that focus on accountability and change. After joining Lurie and volunteers for the Mission trash pickup on Sunday afternoon, Supervisor Mandelman said he was optimistic about Luries ability to work with the incoming board. The influx of brand-new supervisors and Luries lack of experience in elected office means that, unlike many of his predecessors, he doesnt have any political enemies on the citys legislative body which presents an opportunity for collaboration, Mandelman said. San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie is seen during an Ocean Beach Clean-up event in the Outer Richmond on Saturday, Jan. 4. Hes set to be inaugurated on Wednesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle He viewed Luries election as part of a modest but unmistakable shift toward pragmatism over progressive ideology at City Hall. Voters have repeatedly shown that they want to reduce homeless encampments, shut down drug markets, promote economic growth and foster more housing development, Mandelman said. But ultimately, he said he thought Lurie and his staff would approach those issues similarly to Breed. They may try new things in different ways, but I dont think they are ideologically in a very different place, Mandelman said. While Lurie has framed his transition to the mayors office in largely optimistic terms, he has also been frank that part of his job will be to help rehabilitate San Franciscos diminished reputation. The city has become known in recent years for the scenes of disorder and addiction that play out regularly in the Tenderloin and South of Market. Advertisement Article continues below this ad China launches communications center to spotlight wild tiger, leopard protection Xinhua) 08:34, January 07, 2025 This photo taken with a mobile phone shows a wild Siberian tiger in Changbai Mountain in northeast China's Jilin Province on Dec. 3, 2024. (Xinhua) 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Outgoing Mayor London Breed and retiring Chronicle reporter Kevin Fagan are seen at the corner of Willow and Larkin streets during a walk though the Tenderloin last month. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle There once was a pigtailed little girl who warily peered out at the Tenderloin when she rolled through on a Muni bus. It was hardscrabble, like her Western Addition neighborhood so unlike most other spots in wealthy San Francisco. When she grew to be a teenager, shed peel away from her protective grandmother and hit parties there with friends; it was edgy and cool. Poor and smart, the girl grew up as tough as these neighborhoods she hung out in. Decades later, after clawing her way into an adulthood of public service, that girl, who grew up to be Mayor London Breed, stood the other day in the Tenderloin and surveyed the reality around her, pondering the journey shed taken to understand it. She was with me at the corner of Larkin and Willow streets, ground zero for many years of the citys homelessness and drug crises a corner where crack cocaine was as easy to find in the 1980s as fentanyl is today. Id come to the TL as a girl, and the crack epidemic had dealers and users everywhere, she said. Now its fentanyl. People look at addicts sometimes and they dont see people, but the challenge today is the same one back then. Crack, fentanyl, whatever: When you see someone for who they are underneath that trouble, you really see them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I had been invited to walk these streets with the mayor because shes leaving office Wednesday, which, coincidentally, will also be my last day at the Chronicle after 32 years. Im happily retiring from daily newspapering and have a book coming out next month that will be keeping me busy. My most passionate specialty has always been covering homelessness, and thats where Breed and I have connected most. The walk offered a chance for us to ruminate about the citys problems, which she tried to solve using what she liked to call a tough love approach. Her inability to solve those problems to the satisfaction of residents cost her the election. It was sunny on this day, with nary a dope addict or tent in sight after city crews had swept the blocks. There was irony in the cleared streets, because Breeds efforts over the past year largely made them that way. But the progress came too late to convince voters she had the answers. It is also tenuous: The mayor knows that, if history holds, the tents and addicts will come back, no matter whos in charge. Ive spent the best of my career also trying to understand and lessen the crisis the tragedy, really of homelessness. And now, as Breed becomes a citizen again and I leave daily journalism, the reality is that neither one of us has been able to promulgate full solutions to the problem. There are still too many homeless people in our streets and shelters, and the public is still pissed. Yet, as I walked with Breed, it was impossible not to marvel just a little at what I was seeing: A Black woman who rose from public housing in a neighborhood afflicted by historic racism to the highest public office in her hometown, and who still wanted to be at least partly defined by fighting the issues that perhaps most bedeviled her tenure. Especially poverty, which in this town boils most seriously down to the 20,000 or so unhoused people who wind up outside every year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Outgoing Mayor London Breed speaks with friend Rhonda Borland last month during a walk through the Heart of the City Farmers Market in San Francisco. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle I know Breed had her failings the scandal-plagued Dream Keeper program, a hollowed-out downtown slow to regenerate, still rampant drug use and persistent homelessness despite some real progress. But at this moment I was seeing her as a person one Ive known since before she became a politician, and one I can perhaps see in ways most other journalists cant. She and I both grew up poor. Shes seen addiction and violent death afflict her family and close friends; so have I. There are differences, of course my poverty was never as acute as hers plus, Im white and she is Black, meaning she faced a mountain of extra challenges that I didnt. But when youve been poor and hungry, like I was when I was young, it gives you a certain feel for unmet want. You can sense it in other people; I sense it in her. I met Breed a year or so before she began her political ascent as a city supervisor in 2012, when she came to see my Irish Newsboys band play at the old Lefty ODouls Irish bar, and I could tell right away that this was one tough woman who was going places. When we talked, she was as direct and almost as profane as we were in our newsroom. She would lean back in our booth, just shooting the breeze, then lurch forward to pound her fist on the table, eyes blazing, when she wanted to make a point. She wasnt selling me. She was passionate about what she believed. I can help this city, damn it, I just know I can, she said at the time. Poor people need a hand up, she said. We can do better. This was just us yakking over drinks at a bar, not a would-be politician talking to a reporter. And as the years went by, as both supervisor and mayor, she came back to Newsboy gigs for food and casual conversation with me and the band. Shes been real. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Today, she talks as a leader to reporters like me. But in my conversations I still see that feisty resident of a tough neighborhood made good. We took our stroll to chat, no notice to the staff to clean things up wherever we were going. We started near UN Plaza and headed up to Larkin and Willow, where a homeless man Ive written my forthcoming book about, Tyson Feilzer, overdosed and died in 2019. I wanted to see her reaction to a corner that had become very important to me. Ive walked through rough neighborhoods with plenty of politicians and leaders over the years. Most radiate a sense, usually tinged with a little worry, that they cant wait to leave. Theyll sometimes make an effort, maybe because they know a reporters watching, to say hello to homeless folks, but its usually forced. Not Breed. On our walk this being well after she lost the election she lit up as she recognized people on every block, vigorously shook hands or called out to street folks, passersby and workers. It didnt feel staged, and I have a pretty good B.S. meter. We first strolled through the farmers market across from UN Plaza en route to the heart of the Tenderloin. As Breed stopped to buy a $10 basket of strawberries and a $12 loaf of bread, she was treated like a rock star. It was like she hadnt lost Novembers election to Dan Lurie. Outgoing Mayor London Breed, left, smiles as she talks with supporter Aaron Jones last month during a walk through the Tenderloin with retiring Chronicle reporter Kevin Fagan, center. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle They love me in the Tenderloin, Breed said. Nobody elected before to my office paid as much attention to it as I did, and once you focus like that, you own it, for bad or good. But I felt like I had to. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What good am I if I didnt at least try? she said. Every dozen feet or so, a person would rush up to take a selfie or shake her hand. Being the cynical reporter, I expected at least one raised middle finger. There were none, and it stayed like that for the next hour, as we made our way up Larkin Street into the deeper homeless haunts of the TL. Nothing but love, mayor, Shane Blount, 41, called out as she passed an apple stand. All right now, take care, Breed called back. What are you going to do now? Blount asked. I dont know. Ive got to get a job, she replied, and they both laughed. She turned to me and said quietly, Im getting asked that by everyone, but I need a minute. I havent not worked since I was 10 years old, running errands for people. Been working in public service for a lot of years. Whats next for her will probably have something to do with poverty or rehab in one way or another, she confided. Her sister died of a drug overdose; as a kid she saw a friend shot to death over a drug deal. These things are still fresh in her head. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A homeless guy squatting on the sidewalk saw us coming, quickly hid his fentanyl foil and lighter, and smiled at the mayor. How you doin you take care now, she said as we passed, smiling back. Drugs were everywhere around you when you grew up why didnt you become addicted? I asked. There were a lot of people in my community who werent going to let that happen, she said, chief among them her grandmother. My grandmother protected me. People told me, Youre smart, you get good grades, youre going to be somebody. I believed them. On this day, she was dressed in fancy attire, a fine gray felt coat, long red dress and red spike heels, but that wasnt off-putting to the street folk. Outgoing Mayor London Breed and retiring Chronicle reporter Kevin Fagan discuss the city's homeless crisis last month at the corner of Willow and Larkin streets during a walk through the Tenderloin. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Way to go, baby, called another street addict. Youre the best! Aaron Jones yelled from his car as he drove past with his pregnant daughter. I pointed out the spot at Larkin and Willow where Feilzer overdosed on fentanyl and died four years ago after I helped his brother Baron find him so Baron could try to save him. These are human beings out here, and you dont want to see them suffering, Breed said. So much sadness, she added with a sigh. You never forget where you came from. Much of the TL is empty of the tent camps that sprawled everywhere back then, with people vigorously swept in recent months and dispersing a technique abhorred by homeless advocates but enabled by a U.S. Supreme Court decision and welcomed by other cities. Many of the displaced went to other neighborhoods, but also into places that have been created during Breeds six years in office: Shelter beds will soon be nearly doubled to 4,500, supportive housing is up 52% to 14,000 units. Thats far more than any other administration has managed to do since the early days of then-Mayor Gavin Newsom. When I look around I actually see about the same number of homeless people that I saw in the early 2000s. Official street counts confirm that, with the current tally of 8,323 slightly down from 2003s 8,400. Every mayor since the homeless crisis began nationally in the early 1980s, from Dianne Feinstein to Breed, has tried to solve the problem. None has come close, though progress has been made over the years on outreach, services, housing and treatment. As for me, I wrote my first newspaper story about homelessness in 1978, when Breed was 4 years old, so I have seen just about every effort in the modern era come and go. I can tell the difference between unhoused and just plain poor. So can Breed. So many of these folks are living inside but theyre still poor, and when they come out during the day they hang out and a lot of people passing by think theyre homeless, I said. Thats right, a lot of people you see outside theyre just hanging out, Breed said. Its their neighborhood. A woman sitting on a milk crate across the street, looking a bit bedraggled but pretty obviously (to me) living inside, waved. The mayor waved back. As she counted down her days in office, Breed said she felt at peace with her efforts. She also said she understands the downtrodden population even more than ever, now that shes seen it from the bottom as a girl on food stamps in a violent housing project and from the top as the elected executive of one of Americas premier cities. And shes holding her head up. No one needs to tell you what Coca-Cola tastes like. When Coke wants to advertise to you, they take for granted that you already know all about the drink. They instead seek to build positive associations in your mind, by showing you that people who drink Coke look good and have fun. But imagine that they did have to introduce the product to you. Imagine that they had to reveal themselves to a world that hadnt previously known pouring liquid down their throat feels good. It sounds absurd, but if you go back far enough, most products really do start out that way. 8 A Special Soap... Just for Your Armpits? Don't Miss The first commercial deodorant was created by a company named Mum in 1888. The name either evoked something wholesome and maternal or something secret (mums the word) depending on what campaign they were trying. These campaigns took a while to take hold. By 1937, they still needed to inform the general public about what a deodorant even was. Bristol-Myers Keep in mind, few people even had bathtubs in those days. These ads werent claiming that Mum was a better deodorant than competitors. They were just selling people on deodorant as a concept. Bathing does nothing to guard your body against future odors, it warned. Also, the underarm is an area that needs special care. Bristol-Myers This model is just surprised youre accosting her in the bathroom. In addition to selling the first deodorants, Mum went on to invent the first roll-on deodorants. Until they did create that roll-on version, their product was a cream, and applying it took half a minute. While it did combat body odor, using mechanisms similar to todays deodorants, the cream had an odor of its own, so Mum initially struggled to convince buyers that it served a purpose. Bristol-Myers They were stuck on the bathing theme, instead of showing people active and smelling good. They also initially struggled to figure out exactly what they were selling. When they first created their zinc-based product, Mum advertised it as both a cream for your underarms and a cream for your feet. As you can see in one of the above ads, they also suggested smearing the cream on sanitary napkins. Advertisement All of these ads may well remind you of bygone feminine hygiene ads, which we now mock for trying to solve something that was never a problem. Only, with deodorant, we today say, Wait, no. That one really does fix a problem. Lets keep that. 7 Imagine, a TV You Can Tune With Switches Television has changed so much over the years that we cant accurately guess what sort of TV anyone reading this grew up with. But were going to guess that just about the oldest possible TV many of you can imagine is one where you had to go up to it and turn a dial to a new notch to change the channel. However, even that would have been considered a new convenience to someone from an earlier generation. Earlier, simply shifting the dial to a predetermined spot wasnt the end of the story. Youd still need to tinker with it if you wanted the get the picture clear. Then a new technology offered to rid you of that task. With automatic fine-tuning control, the TV would take care of that for you with a single switch. Advertisement Airline Such TVs came in Modern, Colonial or Mediterranean, all of which are wood. That 23-inch TV (theres none bigger made) started at a very reasonable $460, which is $4,200 in todays money. Or, it gave you the option of paying every month for two years. Heres an ad Zenith produced to show off automatic fine-tuning control: Its so easy, you can do it blindfolded, says the ad, revealing that the model turning the dial is wearing a blindfold. Which is obviously a ridiculous thing to say about someone watching TV, but they love the joke so much that right after doing it, they do it a second time. Advertisement Advertisement 6 Stay Connected, With Your Own Telephone When you want to talk to someone, you go over to their house and speak with them, naturally. But lets now imagine a situation where thats impossible. Lets say youre in quarantine. Youll be isolated and unable to communicate with anyone unless you and your unreachable loved ones got yourselves some Bell telephones. Bell Granny in the back is just reading, muddying the message. This ad resurfaced and circulated in 2020, with many people saying it dated to the 1918 flu. It actually dates to 1910. If youre wondering what nationwide quarantine in 1910 was confining everyone to their homes, well, there wasnt any. This ad instead referred to the continual quarantines that anyone might find themselves suddenly swept up in. Advertisement Perhaps your city would round up tuberculosis patients one day, or maybe everyone would have to shut themselves in to stave off the bubonic plague. A century later, people would be forced to learn Zoom, but back then, this was many peoples introduction to the benefits of a telephone line. It saved you from isolation. Or, as in the above image, it saved you from being isolated with that one person you were quarantining with, which could be an even worse fate. 5 Put Away That Match. Light the Room with Electricity! Advertisement Advertisement Electricity transformed how homes and factories operated, but people had to be convinced to make the transition. This ad from 1916 tells you of how electricity relieves the burdens of not just humans but dumb animals, too: 360networks Humans are the smart animals in that image. If you needed us to explain this, we have some bad news for you. One sentence may jump out at you: the part about how the cost of everything else has gone up (a perennial complaint), but the cost of electricity had gone down. This was true the cost of electricity had plummeted in the years right before this and would continue to fall over the next century. However, considering that this ad was urging people to try electricity for the first time, the real comparison should have been electricity versus alternate types of energy, and this change was even greater. When it came to lighting, for example, electricity brought costs down by more than 99.9 percent from 1700 to 2006 (and that doesnt count the continued drop in prices thanks to the later shift to LED bulbs). During the previous few centuries, the price of lighting hadnt dropped at all. Advertisement Dont be put off by the sketchy quotation marks around Modern Method here. It was such a revolutionary change that some ads had to downplay it to avoid scaring customers away. If it is not particularly troublesome, try our services anyway, offers the above modest 1908 ad. Others felt they could advertise the benefits more freely. The following sign, which went up in many hotels, said you needed no match to light your room. You could just turn the key by the door: Marcin Wichary Putting the switch by the bed would take many more decades of research. 4 A Candy With a Hole Advertisement Advertisement When Life Savers first debuted, they called themselves the candy with a hole, and this wasnt just branding. Candy with a hole in the center offers provable advantages over traditional fruit drops, they argued, and they were willing to explain this in terms of each objects surface area. Greater surface area meant your mouth converts more saliva to candy juice every second, hitting you with a mathematically elevated level of flavor. Wrigley The most efficient candy, of course, would be pure powder. Also new at the time: the innovative packaging. That combination of foil and paper was designed to weatherproof the candy. Before this special wrapping (which Life Savers still use today, a full century on), kids would walk around with maple candy in their pockets, which melted in the heat, leading to widespread tragedy. 3 The Very Concept of Plastic Advertisement Weve talked to you before about the long quest to invent plastics, which included such ventures as mixing sawdust with blood before finally making the stuff from petroleum, largely by accident. And once we finally figured the stuff out, well, the applications were obvious. In fact, they meant that you should quit your job and turn to creating plastics yourself, today! Popular Science The war is over! Were all gonna be rich. Imagine if you could fabricate, shape, cast, mold and dye plastics, all in your home. This 1945 ad promised that youd then have your own business, and never mind that some of the verbs in that last sentence are just synonyms. Advertisement As with all get-rich-quick schemes, these promises were lies. The advertiser was fairly upfront about this. They put the word fabrication right there in big letters. Advertisement 2 Buy a Gas Heater, to Save on Labor Lets return now the topic of how tech saves us from drudgery. When you debate what sort of heating system to use in your home, you think about how much it costs, about how much heat it puts out, about how likely it is to break down and perhaps about the environmental impact. One thing you might not think about is how much effort you must put into constantly shoveling more fuel in, but that was an important factor, once upon a time. That so tired illustration could really apply to so many things. With a gas heater, no longer will you leave to load up a stove with coal or wood. Moreover, given that the person making this purchasing decision is a man, no longer will your wife have to load up a stove with coal or wood. Because if youre the one doing the loading, well, maybe theres a certain honor in that, and maybe you sneer at lazy neighbors who turn to newfangled inventions to avoid that chore. But if youre making your wife tire herself out when you can buy a gas heater instead, that would make you a scoundrel. Advertisement A gas line is sunshine on tap, said this 1907 ad. That slogan is so good that we have no doubt that Edison went on to steal it to advertise his electricity. Advertisement One Diddy joke is more than enough The reviews are in: Nikki Glaser crushed it last night as host of the Golden Globes. She did so well in fact that producers are already trying to sign her up for next year. We absolutely had a great experience with her, and think that she would be great at this in the long term, executive producer Glenn Weiss told Variety. Glasers monologue struck a perfect balance between edgy and not-too-mean but she did have some harsher burns up her sleeve. On Howard Sterns SiriusXM radio show this morning, per Variety, Glaser told Stern that she had some meaner punchlines prepared that she ultimately deemed too prickly for a primetime audience on CBS. Don't Miss Here are some of the edgier jokes that didnt make the cut 1 The Burn: This is the last time all of you will be in the same room together until the Diddy trial. Why She Cut It: Glaser told Stern that shed already told one Diddy joke and that was enough. On a more practical note, Youre also accusing the people in the room of being involved in that, and they might turn on you. 2 The Burn: Glen Powell is nominated tonight for Hit Man. Who would have thought youd only be the second-hottest hit man in America? Why She Cut It: Glaser didnt give a rationale, but despite Luigi Mangiones cult status, murder isnt the most fun comedy subject. 3 The Burn: Michael Keaton was so great in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. And Alec Baldwin sadly did not come back to play a ghost because he was too busy making them. Why She Cut It: Again, murder isnt hilarious. Its such a great joke, but its just too mean. Advertisement 4 The Burn: I loved Conclave. Its about the choosing a new pope. It was heartwarming. It will touch you so much that the Church will have to move it to another theater. Hot tip: You dont need ID to get into the Conclave afterparty. Why She Cut It: Catholic Church pedophile jokes have been done to death. Weve all heard them, she said. We dont need more of that. Advertisement 5 The Burn: If Adrien Brody could go back in time, he would thank baby Hitler for his career. Why She Cut It: Glasers Gen Z assistant didnt get the reference to Brody playing a Holocaust survivor. Were going to lose a whole generation on that joke. Advertisement 6 The Burn: Timothee Chalamet took lessons in guitar, dialect, movement and vocals to become Bob Dylan, while Bob Dylan became Bob Dylan the old-fashioned way: heroin and autism. Why She Cut It: She didnt say, but dissing Chalamets wispy mustache was definitely safer ground. Weve all had difficult bosses, but not all of them have inspired multiple movie villains, one of which has the surname Evil. While the public-facing Lorne Michaels is just a friendly old Canadian gentleman with a glass of white wine permanently attached to his right hand, working for the Saturday Night Live producer can be an aggravating experience (just ask poor old Billy Crystal). In addition to the fact that he allegedly can keep people waiting in his office for longer than the running time of the entire Godfather trilogy, and reportedly likes to play cult-like mind games with his employees, Michaels also has a history of humbling cast members with an oddly specific criticism and it involves wigs. Don't Miss John Mulaney and his former SNL writing partner Simon Rich (of Switcheroo infamy) recently spoke with The New Yorker, and revealed yet another way in which Michaels exerts his power. While discussing their new Broadway play All In, its director, Alex Timbers, bragged about the shows minimal wardrobe. I direct a lot of very elaborate musicals, Timbers explained. But here we thought, Why dont we take away the costumes and everything else, and ignite the audiences imagination? This reminds me of a really dismissive thing Lorne Michaels likes to say when watching a sketch, Rich interjected. The wig is starring. Like, youre leaning on a funny wig. Mulaney recalled that he, too, received some wig-based shade from Michaels: One time, after watching one of my sketches, he just looked at me and went, Wig city. Okay, first of all, Michaels criticizing over-the-top wigs is a little like Chef Boyardee shit-talking ravioli. Wigs are an integral part of the show. According to Vogue, each episode of Saturday Night Live features about 80 wigs. Cast members even have to sometimes wear self wigs, which are wigs that just look like their normal hair that they can throw on at any time. Advertisement Advertisement The show is so wig heavy that SNL literally runs its own wig shop, which is located a floor above Studio 8H. The wig department has a dummy head for each cast member so that they can create whatever wig is required in a shockingly short amount of time. Clearly, Michaels was just using the wigs, which everybody acting in the show wears, to stoke some cast members and writers insecurities for some reason. Bill Hader tells a similar, non-wig-centric story about how Micahels approached him moments before his first Vincent Price sketch was about to go live and not-so-helpfully told the young performer, I love this, but, why now? Advertisement Advertisement Seeing as how he said nothing about the sketchs many wigs, perhaps thats glowing praise. Advertisement The United States military will receive about $30 billion in cybersecurity funding in fiscal 2025 from $895.2 billion earmarked for US military activities under the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an annual piece of must-pass legislation signed by President Joe Biden last month. The nearly 1,000-page bills budget doesnt enable clear-cut or quick calculations of how much of the total funding goes to cybersecurity activities. However, as a ballpark guide, the administrations proposed annual budget for the fiscal year 2025 NDAA, released in March, allocated an estimated $30 billion to total military cyber efforts. The final legislation likely did not vary substantially from this level. As is the case each year, the bill is filled with dozens of major and minor cybersecurity-related provisions. The more substantial provisions in the bill range from major spending items that address replacing potentially problematic Chinese technology in telecom networks to protecting DoD employees from foreign spyware to establishing an artificial intelligence security center and much more. Great Rooms A visual diary by Design Editor Wendy Goodman. Queer Eyes Karamo Brown and Jeremiah Brent with Nicole Owens. Photo: Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix Interior designer Jeremiah Brent is no stranger to the world of reality television. Alongside his husband, Nate Berkus, Brent has starred in home-makeover shows across HGTV, OWN, and TLC GO. Nothing, though, could have prepared him for the emotional ride of Netflixs Queer Eye, which he joined last year for its ninth season, set in Las Vegas. Brent, who lives in New York City with Berkus and their two children, Poppy and Oskar, founded his own design firm in 2011. With offices now in Los Angeles and New York, he also published his first book, The Space That Holds You, in 2023. Following Bobby Berks departure early last year, Brent joined Queer Eye veterans Jonathan Van Ness, Antoni Porowski, Karamo Brown, and Tan France, taking on the role of the shows design expert and reimagining the homes of the everyday people or heroes, as the show affectionately calls them who are their clients. Its the heroes, Brent says, that ultimately define the show, and its their stories that have made for such a poignant season. There were bits of us, he says, and bits of our own stories in everyone we worked with. Lets begin with how your adventure with Queer Eye started. When Bobby Berk decided to leave, how did you get involved? Well, heres what really happened. Tell me about it. They actually asked me to do the show before they asked anybody else, but we had just had Poppy. She was a year old. There was no way that I was leaving, even though I really wanted to do it. I respect the show tremendously; its this Trojan horse. Its all fabulous and silly, but the truth is, its about connection and reframing the perspective and the lens through which youre looking at peoples lives and their stories. So I was super sad to say no to it, but it was the right decision. Fast-forward to the ninth season. Id become really good friends with Tan France and Antoni. And so, the producers came to me and they said, Would you ever consider doing the show? Its not at all what I expected; it is such an emotional journey! I was in tears throughout Jenya Reynoldss entire episode. It pushed me way outside of my comfort zone. I gave the show everything I could possibly give it, but I still got so much more from it than I could have ever given it. Ive never had a clear community around me before. You know what I mean? Like a real community with an unspoken connection. Im still trying to unpack everything that I learned and everything that it gave me. And it was just the wildest thing because I dont think people realize what the show really is. And in my opinion, theres never been a more important time for it. And you were the new kid on the block. Thats never easy. The cast had been through a lot. They were thrown into controversies this last year that they really didnt deserve to be thrown into. Weve got Jonathan Van Ness, whos been speaking out for transgender rights, advocating for communities, and theres a lot of responsibility that they carry around. I think my one intention going into the show was well, two: I wanted to be a soft place for them to land. I really wanted them to feel the support, because I dont need to be number one. I dont care. And I also wanted to remind them what they do. I mustve said it 300 times while we were shooting Do you see this? Does this ever get old to you? This isnt fake TV. You really change peoples lives. You cant fake that. From left: Karamo Brown, Jeremiah Brent, Antoni Porowski, Tan France, and Jonathan Van Ness. Photo: Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix How do you select the people that you end up working with? They all go through casting. Theyve been developing and working with them for a long time. Jenya Reynolds, her name came into casting through my mother-in-law. Theyd worked together. Jenyas never seen the show before, she didnt know anything about it. It was not something she submitted for. But it is one of those moments where you just knew instantly. And I think thats just a testament to how I believe we need to move through the world currently. Its showing up with somebody wide open and asking them to share everything. Our design firm handles multimillion-dollar projects, and its a whole different world. But in the show, we have $40,000 for an entire renovation. And its not about the opulence of anything. Its about reflecting peoples experiences. Its exactly what design is supposed to be about, what its always supposed to have been about. Im shocked to hear that $40,000 is the budget. Whats the time frame to do the makeover? Three days. Thats crazy! Its why I look like Im 98 years old the whole season. I did not sleep. Which is fine, Im not complaining. Ill never complain about the work, because its a privilege. Thats where its all at. But Im a unique personality type for it. I live for it. Jeremiah Brent with Nicole Owens. Photo: Netflix How long were you in Las Vegas filming? I was there for 14 weeks altogether. Nate said that he and the kids came out every two weeks or once a month. I sat down, because Im a type A, which Im coming to terms with type A creative, though but I organized everything within an inch of its life. I talked to Poppys school, and I found a homeschool teacher in Vegas. They came every two weeks, would go back for two weeks, come back. How did you feel about Vegas? I felt like it is a real microcosm of whats going on in this country. And I think thats why it was an interesting choice. The abundance of wealth versus the lack of it. It reminded me a lot of where I grew up, strangely. As a matter of fact, the house that I rented while we were there had the exact same floor plan as the house I grew up in, the same kind of track house. And I walked in, and for the first 20 minutes, it was like the last 20 years of my life just didnt happen. What was the most surprising thing to you about your experience? Were loud. Were over the top. But even Clyde, for example, Clyde is not aligned with me politically. And I can guarantee you, he doesnt have a lot of nonbinary people in his living room often, or small gay decorators. But watching that show and going through that experience with him, its a reminder for me to go through life without pretenses. Our culture is one side or the other, but theres this entire space in between. Coming in and not trying to tell you what to think, but instead showing you how I live, how I love, how I value, how I see you. Thats the real beauty of the show. Paula Chance and Jeremiah Brent in an episode of Queer Eye. Photo: Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix Do you think the people you worked with understood that this kind of transformation would be so deeply emotional? No, I dont think so. My castmates are like, This is one of the most emotional seasons weve ever had. And I think thats because everybody cared so much. Antoni overthinks, like the lineage of food and where it comes from, whats affordable for someone to make, whats got a long shelf life. Tan spends copious amounts of time with the wardrobe and whats going to make a silhouette work for this or that body. Things that are not easy. Somebody said to me the other day, The makeovers dont look like what I would expect for you to make over for TV. And I was like, Well, thats great because Im not decorating. But what did they mean by that? I think with decorating on television, its very prescriptive. Its been a decade of how you can create something to flip it and sell it, and you just move on. Its very transactional. And a lot of decorators have one style that they do really beautifully. For me, with the show in particular, in this show, I wanted to make sure that every episode felt incredibly different because every individual is different. And I really wanted it to feel like this kaleidoscope of different design styles, because Im not designing for you. Im not designing for me. Im designing for each person, and if Paula likes bunnies and flowers and hummingbirds, so be it. Photo: Ilana Panich-Linsman/Netflix When we see you come into the house, is that the actual first time youve seen the space? Or were you able to sneak in before cameras rolled and get a sense? I would say 70 percent of the time, I only see imagery. Sometimes if the schedules okay, I can sneak in, but I ask to not do that because I have to be in the space to kind of figure out what I want to do to it. So is the next season also going to be in Las Vegas? No, it travels every year. I dont know where its going to be next season. By the way, its not even fully officially picked up again for another season, so nothings guaranteed. I hope it is. There are so many other stories, especially going into next year with everything that were about to navigate. Right now, its the only queer television show on Netflix, on that streaming platform. So, when you think about the importance of it, I really hope that it resonates with people and that it continues. If it is picked up again, would you start filming in the spring? I think so. What was the biggest takeaway for you? How far Ive gotten away from myself. I had kind of compartmentalized, as most people do. And I remembered where I began. There were so many full-circle moments in this show, like helping a single mother. As somebody who was raised by a single mother for the first half of my life, Ill never be able to describe what it felt like to give her the opportunities you wish you could give your parents, you wish you could give her. Its an unpopular thing to be a decorator saying that design only goes so far, but its true. Beautiful stuff is one thing; its very American to make something because you want it to be beautiful. Im interested in something being beautiful because its yours. I think thats kind of my mission and what Im hoping to keep chipping away at. For someone whos watching the show with a space that isnt working for them, where would you tell them to start? What would you say to them about making changes without being overwhelmed? Well, I think theres a lot of power to changing the way youre curating the things you already own. Sometimes I think back to when I lived on my own and I had $2 to my name, I would move everything out of the room, put it in the bedroom, be in an empty space for an hour, or sometimes a whole day, and then Id bring things back and place them completely differently. For me, design is so rooted in ceremony and ritual. And I think just trying to reprogram everything youve been told about home, and instead crafting a space thats for you, not for other people, thats the really important distinction. Paul Yep, who will be San Franciscos public safety policy chief, stands in the background after voicing support for then-mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie in San Francisco on Feb. 26. Don Feria/Special to the Chronicle 2024 San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Luries pick for a new top public safety position was accused of driving while intoxicated and abusing his authority in a lawsuit nearly seven years ago claims that a Lurie spokesperson dismissed as wildly flung and unsubstantiated. The lawsuit against Paul Yep, a former San Francisco police commander whom Lurie named as his chief of public safety last week, stemmed from a minor collision that Yep caused while driving a city-owned vehicle in Burlingame one night in the fall of 2016. Yep was not cited or arrested for driving under the influence in connection with the collision. He said in a sworn statement filed as part of the case that he did not drink that day, and his attorneys at the time denied that his actions constituted an abuse of power. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But the driver whom Yep rear-ended, Timothy Hansen, alleged that Yep seemed to have been drinking that evening. During their encounter at the scene of the crash, Yep allegedly smelled of alcohol, was slurring his speech and had an unsteady gait. It was undeniable to me between how he was carrying himself and the smell, Hansen said in a deposition. It was absolutely not even a question. I knew what I was dealing with. The lawsuit, which was ultimately settled, was first reported Sunday by Bay City News. The case resurfaced days before Lurie is set to be sworn in as mayor Wednesday, as he rolled out his choices for key positions in his administration, including the public safety job he created for the first time and filled with Yep. Yeps position is different from the role held by longtime San Francisco police Chief Bill Scott, his former boss. In his new role, Yep will be tasked with coordinating the strategic alignment between various public safety-oriented city departments, including the police, fire and juvenile and adult probation departments. He will also be a point of contact between the Lurie administration and the sheriff, district attorney and public defenders offices. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Yep joined the SFPD in 1996 and was promoted to captain in 2016. He went on to lead various district stations and was in charge of Richmond Station at the time of the collision. Yep retired from the department as a commander in 2023 and began working as a vice president in charge of campus safety at Academy of Art University. Paul has dedicated his career to keeping San Franciscans safe and there is no one better for this critical job, Lurie said in a statement on his new hire. Together, we will support our law enforcement and ensure that every resident, worker, and visitor is safe in our city. A spokesperson for Lurie dismissed the allegations in a statement. Law enforcement investigated the allegations in the lawsuit and was unable to substantiate or corroborate these wildly flung claims, said Max Szabo, a Lurie spokesperson. Commander Yep is a decorated law enforcement veteran and San Franciscans will be well served by his demonstrated commitment to enhancing public safety for all. Scott defended Yep in a statement and praised him for his tenure, saying he served an important leadership role in the SFPD. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Yep served our department honorably and with distinction, Scott said. An attorney for Hansen did not immediately return requests for comment. Attempts to reach Hansen by phone were unsuccessful. In his lawsuit, Hansen alleged that Yep initially refused to provide his photo ID after the collision. Dont worry about it! Yep allegedly told him, according to the complaint. When my people get here, youll get what you need. Yep then threw down his police ID, the lawsuit says. Advertisement Article continues below this ad His alleged behavior led Hansen to believe that Yep was trying to intimidate him through his position as a police officer. Hansens sense of intimidation was further compounded by Yep allegedly driving by Hansens house in the days after the collision and staring at Hansen in a menacing fashion, the lawsuit alleged. Yep also allegedly dropped off his information at Hansens house. Yep reported the collision to Burlingame police two days after the incident. Police determined based on Yeps admission that he caused the crash by speeding, according to a copy of the police report. In court filings, Yeps attorneys denied that he had driven by the house in a menacing fashion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They argued that, even if true, his alleged behavior and comments would amount to nothing more than mere annoyances not an abuse of power. The alleged comments are completely innocuous and there is nothing even remotely outrageous about them, wrote his attorney Kirsten Sansoe. But Hansens attorneys called that argument offensive. What possible legitimate reason could a police officer have for bringing up the fact he was a police officer after rear ending someone? wrote Hansens attorney Katherine Moore. Capt. Yeps argument that such an action is trivial does not pass the smell test. Red flag warnings are in effect for more than 18.6 million Southern Californians amid strong winds and very dry conditions. Wind gusts, up to 100 mph in foothill locations, are forecast to be strongest Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Baron/Lynx Critical fire weather is forecast for more than 18.6 million Southern Californians beginning Tuesday, as officials warn of a life-threatening, destructive and widespread windstorm amid extremely dry conditions. Gusts Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning could reach up to 100 mph in Simi Valley and the foothills of the San Gabriel and San Fernando valleys. The event could bring the Los Angeles region the most destructive Santa Ana winds in 14 years. In 2011, a similar pattern brought powerful winds that caused tens of millions in damages in Pasadena and uprooted thousands of trees. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wildfires are a distinct possibility. Southern California is in the early stages of drought, with many areas receiving less than an inch of rain since July. Fuels are pretty much what they are like typically in October, said Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Oxnard. Vegetation remains critically dry. The weather service warns of a high risk of downed trees and power lines which could spark out-of-control wildfires. Southern California Edison has scheduled public safety power shutoffs for nearly than 415,000 households and businesses. If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for very rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior, including long range spotting, which would threaten life and property, the weather service wrote in its red flag warning for critical fire weather conditions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A particularly dangerous situation tag was added to the warning for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, to begin at noon Tuesday language the weather service reserves only for the most extreme situations. Strong winds are expected to be more widespread than a typical Santa Ana wind event due to mountain wave activity. Prevailing winds are expected to come out of the north, perpendicular to highlands such as the San Gabriel Mountains. Winds will climb the mountains and accelerate on the southern side, resulting in extreme gusts on south-facing foothills and downwind valleys. Locations such as Pasadena, Glendale, Thousand Oaks, Covina and Canoga Park could experience gusts of 60-100 mph. The Beverly and Hollywood hills may gust up to 60 mph. What that means is we could see strong and damaging wind gusts that pick up out of nowhere and go away out of nowhere, Kittell said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mountain waves can cycle gusty winds through in periods of minutes to about an hour, followed by an hour of calmer conditions, only for strong winds to return shortly thereafter. While not all mountain wave events spark wildfires, many of the most destructive wildfires in American history have been fueled by mountain waves. Such fires include the 2023 Lahaina fire in Maui, the 2017 Tubbs Fire in Santa Rosa, the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise and the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado. As has been noted, vertically propagating mountain waves during strong downslope windstorms have facilitated some of the most destructive wildfires in wildland-urban interface in recent years (in California, Colorado, Hawaii, and beyond). Will be discussing today. #CAwx #CAfire https://t.co/Nhpo3XYcy9 Dr. Daniel Swain (@Weather_West) January 6, 2025 Significant aviation impacts are also anticipated from mountain wave activity. The weather service expects flight delays and severe turbulence. Expect a lot of mountain waves, which are quite dangerous for pilots, Kittell said. At the terminals, there will be significant crosswinds. Any kind of north-to-south winds (at Los Angeles International Airport) are very impactful. All of the airports in the valleys are vulnerable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mountain waves may bring winds toward areas that typically dont experience strong Santa Ana winds. The weather service forecasts gusts up to 60 mph in downtown Los Angeles, although exact speeds will depend where mountain waves set up. Fire weather danger is also predicted to be extreme in the Inland Empire and Orange County. Recent rainfall will limit fire weather risk in the Bay Area, although gusts in the hills may exceed 50 mph Tuesday morning. Santa Ana winds are typically strongest through wind corridors but will be more widespread this go around, said Alex Tardy, a warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in San Diego. Tardy expects gusts up to 60 mph in the Inland Empire (San Bernardino County) and up to 70 mph in inland Orange County. The National Weather Service warns of downed trees, power outages, dangerous fire weather and significant travel impacts from strong winds across Southern California from Tuesday through Wednesday. National Weather Service If we do get a (fire) ignition, it really could go wild, Tardy said. This is a scenario we dont see with every Santa Ana wind event. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fighter pilots call it the 'flash-to-bang' window. The time interval between the detection of a major threat 'the flash' and our response to neutralise it 'the bang'. In that critical period, decisions must be made up through the chain of command, all the way to the PM, to approve actions and tackle the threat effectively. If a ballistic or hypersonic missile aimed at London was fired from a base in the Russian Urals, the flash-to-bang time would be under 30 minutes the time it takes from the instant our sophisticated satellite warning systems detect an overseas enemy missile launch, to the moment we intervene before impact. Today, our best hope would be Britain's Quick Reaction Alert [QRA] several RAF Typhoon jets based at RAF Coningsby or Lossiemouth scrambled to immediately intercept the missile. Pilots are on 30 minutes' notice to move but are usually airborne in half that time ready for just such a nightmare scenario. As a former defence minister on the duty roster, I had to approve take off on more than one occasion usually in response to Russian aircraft buzzing our airspace. Today, the air threat looks far more hostile, complex and unpredictable. Brave though RAF pilots are, the QRA alone is simply inadequate to keep us safe. The latest generation of long-range missiles now travel faster (moving to hypersonic speeds), often on a parabola that takes them to the edge of space. In salvos, that would simply overwhelm any manned-aircraft response. London is now vulnerable, as is every other city in the UK, along with our critical national infra-structure such as ports, airports and nuclear power stations. It's easy to dismiss the likelihood of such an attack. Surely any state striking the UK would immediately receive the wrath of Nato. A Russian nuclear drill. London is now vulnerable, as is every other city in the UK Israel's iron dome defence system intercepts rockets from the Gaza Strip But what if it was a non-state actor? What if Iran gifted a Sejjil missile (range 2,500km) to an extremist militia in Libya and they then mounted an attack? Or the Wagner group of Russian mercenaries used a low-flying drone to deliver the same payload, launched from a fishing vessel in the English Channel? This is the new face of modern warfare. And right now we have no adequate air defence. The reality is our world is getting more dangerous, not less, but we seem to be in denial about what to do. We have enjoyed three decades of relative peace since the end of the Cold War and can't quite believe it might all unravel. But it is unravelling. Authoritarianism is on the rise as the West looks ever more hesitant and divided. China, Russia and Iran are aligning, taking advantage of our timidity and the fast-changing nature of warfare. Look at how air defence has been so critical in Ukraine and Israel, which have suffered repeated attacks from mass volleys of Russian and Iranian missiles and drones. Britain would be crippled if we experienced anything of this order. And to suggest we are not vulnerable to some form of similar attack over the next five years would be a dereliction of duty. In the decades since the end of the Cold War, we have relied on the Americans as our invincible military allies. We can rely on them no longer, writes Tobias Ellwood Britain urgently needs a layered air defence system akin to Israel's Iron Dome defences and its associated anti-missile systems. If we do not do everything it takes to install a similar air defence model, we will undoubtedly pay a horrific price, and the British people will rightly ask why we did not act sooner. There is no greater priority for Government not even the health service or education. Yet it is one that is constantly ignored. Britain's defence spending is about 2.3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product [GDP]. Take the cost of our nuclear Trident deterrent out of that budget and the level falls to around 1.6 per cent. That puts us approximately on a par with Romania or Italy, and far behind more pro-active European countries such as Poland. Yet Britain is still seen as the bulwark of European democracy, the nation that will always fight for freedom. The awful truth is that, with a dearth of stalwart political leadership determined to defend our way of life, we are no bulwark. Our history as the country that stood alone against Nazism will count for nothing if we do not shore up our defences. In the decades since the end of the Cold War, we have relied on the Americans as our invincible military allies. We can rely on them no longer. That was brought home to me at the 75th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day landings, when I met Donald Trump in Portsmouth. He surprisingly admitted how little he knew of the scale of the American commitment and sacrifice in liberating the continent saying he did not want to see Americans bail out Europe for a third time. Trump regards Europe as wealthy enough to look after its own security. His focus lies elsewhere notably with China and heading off a potential invasion of Taiwan. He has a point. Why should America continue to guarantee European security when so many Nato countries have for decades avoided spending even 2 per cent GDP on defence? My experience in the defence ministry showed me that most people in UK Government are still in denial about the 'threat matrix' the list of active threats, and the likelihood and scale of impact of any attack. It has never looked more dangerous or more complex since 1945. Successive governments have allowed our defence budget to wither. But with Russia, China, Iran, North Korea and other countries in the Middle East and Africa openly pursuing a very different vision of our world order, this must now change. Since 2019, I've called for defence spending to increase to 3 per cent. I'm now of the view that even this is simply not enough and we should return to Cold War levels of at least 4 per cent to upgrade our defences and meet the security challenges that are inevitably coming over the hill. Without robust security, our entire economy is vulnerable and if that's impacted, then there is no money in the Treasury's coffers for any government department let alone defence. And top of the list must be a multi-layered anti-missile system, or Britain is defenceless. There is much to be learned from how Israel and indeed America defend their skies. I'm sure if British people were fully aware of how vulnerable we now are, how threatening the storm of war is there would be a greater outcry to spend more on defence. I would encourage every reader to demand from their MP and the Government that Britain spends more on our security in order to keep us safe, beginning with a national air defence system over our skies. We have to act before it's too late. Tobias Ellwood was chairman of the parliamentary defence committee from 2020 to 2023. The King is sending Prince Edward to Washington for Jimmy Carters funeral on Thursday, something which has raised eyebrows. Only two presidents, Ronald Reagan and George Bush Sr, had a royal at their funeral Prince Charles. Surely the present Prince of Wales would have been a more suitable choice than the 14th in line to the throne? Asking William to turn out for Carter was probably a non-starter. Thursday is Kates birthday, always a family affair. The King is sending Prince Edward to Washington to attend the funeral of Jimmy Carter Only two US presidents have previously had a royal at their funeral - King Charles, the Prince of Wales at the time Jimmy Carter pictured in Plains, Georgia in October 2002 after it was announced he had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize Did a youthful Donald Trump play in goal for Wolverhampton Wanderers youth team? On the eve of his inauguration, a 1991 edition of Shoot magazine has been unearthed claiming the Donald turned out six times for Wolves while his father was stationed in the Midlands with the US Air Force. Alas the tale has been debunked by magazine FourFourTwo, which pointed out Trump Sr never served in the USAF. As Donald, famous for his small hands, might exclaim: Fake news! Flaunting his dazzling new veneers at Hollywoods Golden Globes, Robbie Williams does not mourn the loss of his old teeth. The old ones have gone. Auf Wiedersehen. I would like to thank them for all the food that we went through and the cocaine that I used to rub on them. Robbie Williams (right) with Colman Domingo at the Golden Globe Awards in California Andrew Neil, reflecting on his brief appearances on BBCs Newsnight, explains: I did a couple of guest presenter stints a long time ago but the Left-wing Newsnight team didnt like it. So nothing came of it. 'The editor then George Entwistle was new and weak. He didnt have the confidence to make an appointment which would have been unpopular with his staff and J Paxman. He went on to become DG of the BBC and lasted about three seconds. Fourteen months after splitting from his wife of 25 years, Lulu, Hugh Bonneville is asked by Gyles Brandreth on his Rosebud podcast if he has been a good father to son Felix, 20. Lets pause the tape there, he says, before pointedly quoting Philip Larkin. They f*** you up, your mum and dad. They may not mean to, but they do... Former Spectator editor Fraser Nelson leaving Downing Street in December 2012 Fraser Nelson, who was editor of The Spectator when it was sold for an eye-watering 100million last year, has been recalling his early days as a gauche business journalist fresh from the Scottish Highlands. I once stopped a high-level business lunch to announce that my soup was cold and did anyone else have the same problem? It was something called gazpacho. Painted with his lover Wayne Sleep by David Hockney, delightfully daft rare books dealer and Bovril heir George Lawson, who has died aged 82, was from a Scots family of eccentrics. A rich uncle left his fortune to a giraffe at Edinburgh Zoo because it reminded him of his very tall wife. When Sir Keir Starmer ran for the Labour leadership in 2020, he stood on a policy platform which promised to end privatisation within the NHS. Healthcare, he said, should not be outsourced to the private sector. Public services should be in public hands, not making profits for shareholders. But fortunately, since he became Prime Minister, Sir Keir seems to have seen the benefit of pragmatism. In his speech yesterday, he announced a deal to make more use of private providers to reduce NHS waiting lists. This is both welcome and, to all but the most intransigently doctrinaire, eminently sensible. After all, if someone has been waiting 18 months in severe pain for a hip replacement, are they really going to quibble about where and by whom they might be treated? Sir Keir insisted he was not interested in putting ideology before patients (although such pragmatism was sorely lacking when it came to private school pupils). So he and Health Secretary Wes Streeting should be commended for their determination to ensure patients are treated more quickly and efficiently. Sir Keir Starmer insisted he was not interested in putting ideology before patients In his speech yesterday, he announced a deal to make more use of private providers to reduce NHS waiting lists Their planned shake-up includes creating and expanding 17 surgical hubs, operating diagnostic centres in the community seven days a week and a new appointments app. Sir Keir accepted that endless money cannot be poured into the NHS and that productivity is pitifully low. Even so his party gave a bumper pay deal to staff without insisting on improvements. The sad truth is that many on the Left are still instinctively hostile to change. The combined power of the vested interests the unions, hospital managers, the medical establishment to resist root-and-branch reform can seem almost overwhelming. We fervently hope Sir Keir and Mr Streeting have the will and resilience to break their stranglehold.People want to see the health servicerun for the benefit of patients not the public sector. A shameful smear The Prime Minister has prompted a furious backlash after suggesting those pushing for a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal are jumping on a far-Right bandwagon. The rape and sexual torture of thousands of vulnerable white girls by gangs of mainly Pakistani-heritage men is one of the most shameful episodes in British history. It is not far-Right to be horrified such depravity, which destroyed childrens lives, could happen in at least 50 towns and cities. It is not far-Right to be appalled that Left-wing politicians, council officials, social workers and police chiefs averted their eyes for fear of being called racist and to avoid community tensions. Tech billionaire Elon Musk criticised ministers over the gangs, the PM attacked those spreading lies and misinformation 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' And it is not far-Right to want a full national inquiry into how the authorities let these crimes go unchecked including Sir Keirs own role as head of the CPS for much of the time. After tech billionaire Elon Musk criticised ministers over the gangs, the PM attacked those spreading lies and misinformation. But the harrowing details are already in the public domain from court cases, official hearings or the testimony of victims. Of course, given the party ran many of the councils where this scourge flourished, its not hard to understand why Labour is so reluctant to hold an inquiry. But if Sir Keir is truly concerned about extremism, he should call a judge-led inquiry. Brushing this scandal under the carpet can only encourage the far-Right. Did Angela Rayner just compare her housing policy the Governments flagship to the Titanic? Indeed she did. Looked pleased with the analogy, too. The civil servant next to her was possibly less delighted. Did one of those watery-eyed gulps you see when a guest at a book launch has been incautious enough to down a cocktail sausage in one, realising too late that the snorker was blisteringly hot. Fire hydrant orderlies, at the double! Mrs Rayner was at the Commons housing select committee. What do we call you, Secretary of State or Deputy Prime Minister, or Ange? inquired soft Florence Eshalomi (Lab, Vauxhall) who chairs the committee. Mrs Rayner bared her teeth and laughed that she didnt give a fig. A shaft of electric light glinted off one of her fangs. It had a blinding, paralysing effect on three new Labour women who were sitting down one flank of the U-shaped table. Chris Curtis (Lab, Milton Keynes N) started shaking badly. What big teeth you have, Grandma, said Little Red Riding Hood. Big Ange had sauntered up the corridor beforehand with a careless confidence. Her permanent secretary, Sarah Healey, had already been there for some time, lines forming on her brow when it began to look as if the minister might be late. Ms Healey is the mandarin who earned notoriety three years ago by saying that she enjoyed working from home because it gave her time to ride her 1,350 Peloton exercise bicycle. Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government arrives at Downing Street for a weekly Cabinet Meeting Did Angela Rayner just compare her housing policy the Governments flagship to the Titanic? Indeed she did. Looked pleased with the analogy, too Ms Healey (pictured) is the mandarin who earned notoriety three years ago by saying that she enjoyed working from home because it gave her time to ride her 1,350 Peloton exercise bicycle All that pedalling but never an inch of progress: Sarah Healey was a perfect metaphor for Whitehall. Her minister in those Peloton-jockeying days was Nadine Dorries. Now she has won Angela Rayner in the raffle. Some civil servants have all the luck. Yesterday afternoons meeting got underway and we were soon lost in a blizzard of piffle. Mrs Rayner was full of beans. Words flew from her in a torrent. The physical feat of talking so long and loudly was remarkable. You can see how she developed such a strong jaw. It was working like bilge pumps in Venice during high water. She must have mandibular muscles as big as Usain Bolts hamstrings. The topic was the Starmer Governments promise to build 1.5 million homes, something many say is impossible. Mrs Rayner threw back her mane in defiance. Lee Dillon (Lib Dem, Newbury) asked a question. Mrs Rayner launched into a sentence that lasted three minutes and 15 seconds. Clauses begat sub-clauses which themselves developed progeny of their own. An entire grammatical eco-system was contained within one enormous, glurped, saliva-sloppy sentence. And it gushed forth from her tender lips, as they say in Whitehall, at pace. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner make a visit to a construction site on December 12, 2024 in Cambridgeshire Asked to explain how all her shiny new houses were going to be built, Mrs Rayner conceded the turnaround would not happen instantly (file image) In her haste to communicate, houses and homes were conflated and became a new word, houms. The verb recognise lost its g. Man overboard. I can whack lyrical about it, cried Mrs Rayner, quite unfazed that she meant wax, or indeed that she was talking raw gibberish. Beside her Ms Healey nodded, hard. She looked terrified. There was something about her that reminded me of Hyacinth Buckets neighbour, Elizabeth, in the television comedy Keeping Up Appearances. Once or twice Ms Healey made sycophantic interjections. Big Ange cast her imperious gaze in the other direction. She possibly considers Ms Healey a posh crawler. But not as much of a suck-up as Mr Curtis, who was now telling Mrs Rayner it was clearly fantastic what has already been achieved. His hands were trembling so much, you could see why he wears one of those scrofulous little semi-beards. Might cut himself to threads with a razor. Asked to explain how all her shiny new houses were going to be built, Mrs Rayner conceded the turnaround would not happen instantly. Its a bit like the Titanic, not like a hackney cab, she averred proudly. Mr Curtis boggled a bit and, while trying to suggest that the 1.5 million target might need some reconsidering, said you expect a bit of leakage, then? Leakage on the Titanic? Surely not. Rob Marciano has reportedly purchased a $1.2 million home in the suburbs of New York after landing a new job at CBS. The 56-year-old was allegedly fired from his role at Good Morning America last year after being yanked off air in 2022 for supposed anger management issues. In October 2024, it was revealed that he'd found a new home at CBS and had been hired to join the network's expanding weather team. According to The US Sun, Rob purchased his new suburban property in November and the 1,745-square-foot home boasts three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The house is considered a mansion, as records show that he paid a $12,010 mansion tax. The publication claims that the property has hardwood floors throughout, and also has private access to the beach. Rob's new living room is said to include a fireplace as well as 'a large picture window that looks out to the landscaped backyard and patio.' He also has marble countertops in his new kitchen and his primary suite has a luxurious walk-in closet and a modern bathroom with his-and-her sinks. Rob Marciano, pictured here in 2021, has reportedly purchased a new $1.2 million home in the suburbs of New York Rob landed a job at CBS News late last year after allegedly being fired from his role at Good Morning America Prior to buying his new home, Rob had been living in a 2,000-square-foot apartment with three bedrooms and two bathrooms and was reportedly paying $3,250 a month. He moved into the apartment in 2021 following his split from his wife of 11 years Eryn Woodburn. The former couple sold their five-bedroom mansion in Rye, New York, on July 1, 2022 for $2.7 million. Rob and real estate agent Eryn, who are parents to their two children Madelynn, 12, and Mason, six, appear to be on good terms following their split and she was even pictured with him as he went house hunting last October. Though Eryn was not listed as an agent for the home sale, her company represented Rob in the process. Sources claimed that Rob was facing anger management issues during his divorce from Eryn, and this could have been to blame for 'a number of alarming events' that allegedly occurred at GMA. His dismissal followed an alleged pattern of incidents, including one in 2022 that led to him being temporarily removed from the morning show's studio. Rob was reportedly 'banned' from the morning show's studio after making a colleague uncomfortable, according to Page Six. Rob split from his wife Eryn Woodburn in 2021 after 11 years of marriage, but they appear to be on good terms The weatherman shares two children with his ex-wife; daughter Madelynn, 12, and six-year-old son Mason After a month off the air he was shuffled to ABC's World News Tonight, which shoots from a different studio, and reported from the field. The father-of-two was initially suspended for a month, but GMA executive producer Simone Swink kept him banned from the studio indefinitely. 'He was found to have done something that was improper, but he was punished for it, and they still haven't let him return,' a source told the Post in 2023. 'He made people feel uncomfortable. There was a period where there were some issues, a number of alarming events,' a second source claimed. Supermarkets and corner shops across Europe are being transformed into nightclubs as GenZ make a beeline for these sober dance parties. Videos posted on TikTok highlighted the rise of 'market rave culture' in cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, Paris, and the UK where everyday places like takeaway restaurants, grocery stores, and bakeries are hosting these buzzy social gatherings. One such clip showed electronic music act Mr Belt and Wezol playing their remix of Whitney Houston's 'It's Not Right But It's Okay' in the middle of a 'fruit and veggie' store in the Dutch capital. Partygoers could be seen dancing while holding up leeks, with the DJ duo's turntables precariously positioned between boxes of avocados and oranges. TikTok users flocked to the comments section to find out the name of the store, with one person declaring 'a good veggie store rave is exactly what's missing from my life'. Locals and tourists in several European cities have stumbled upon these surprise raves, with one Parisian creator captioning their clip: 'Guys am I dreaming or is there a rave party in a supermarket?' The TikTok user @Goms' clip appears to have been filmed inside a shop located opposite the Galeries Lafayette department store on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. 'That's why I love Paris,' one translated comment, posted under her clip, read. Videos posted on TikTok highlighted the rise of 'market rave culture' in cities like Amsterdam, Berlin , Paris, and Antwerp, where everyday places like takeaway restaurants, grocery stores, and bakeries are hosting these buzzy social gatherings Electronic music act Mr Belt and Wezol at a gig in a 'fruit and veggie' store in the Dutch capital Similar videos have been filmed at a variety of different locations, including Asian grocery stores, bakeries, chippies, and kebab shops in Vienna, Antwerp, and even the UK A video shared by up-and-coming UK-based DJ Louis Bekk showed him takeover a burger shop in Istanbul that showed chips sizzling in hot oil and customers being served their sandwiches, while a group of people stormed a makeshift dance floor. The TikTok was captioned 'anything can be a rave challenge' and highlighted the advent of 'raves in unconventional space', with one person writing: 'Food + Rave = 2025 business model.' Similar videos have been filmed at a variety of different locations, including Asian grocery stores, bakeries, chippies, and kebab shops in Vienna, Antwerp, and even the UK. A Bristol-based pizza shop served 'heavyweight slices of bass' at their rave event last October, while baguettes and house music were both on the menu at a Dutch bakery in Amsterdam that went viral on TikTok in 2023 Commenting under the short clip, which has over one million views at the time of writing, one person noted: 'All my interests have merged.' Another TikTok user shared: 'Carbs in the club. I would truly be in heaven.' A third comment read: 'Raise the vibes while raising the dough.' Videos also showed revellers enjoying dance music in furniture shops, cafes, matcha shops, and even the parking lots of grocery stores. The rise of these supermarket raves highlights how musicians and events organisers are branching outside of nightclubs and conventional venues to create one-of-a-kind experiences for younger partyseekers As the popularity of these supermarket raves surge, brands are also capitalising on the trend in the hope of going viral on TikTok As these unconventional social events gain popularity, brands are also capitalising on the trend in the hope of going viral on TikTok. For instance, in September last year, it was reported that shoppers at a Morrisons in Stratford, London, attended a morning rave hosted by MOJU drinks - with attendees swapping vodka shots for wellness drinks. According to industry publication Grocery Trader, MOJU's morning rave was part of the F&B firm's wider launch plans in their nationwide rollout to Morrisons stores in the UK. Ultimately, however, the rise of these supermarket raves highlights how musicians and events organisers are venturing outside of nightclubs and other conventional venues to create one-of-a-kind experiences for younger partyseekers. In 2023, Leeds-based music platform Off-Licence Sessions took over a corner shop in Bristol to host a unique event that left Love Island host Maya Jama impressed. The Bristolian TV presenter reposted a video documenting scenes from the rave inside The Best Supermarket located on Stokes Croft, according to a report by Bristol Live. Describing their work, Off-Licence Sessions said they were 'taking over local bossmen's shops up and down thr UK with 140 and Grime sounds'. At the time of writing, Off-Licence Sessions have organised similar events in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, and even Sao, Paulo, Brazil. Meanwhile, the owner of the Stokes Croft corner shop Bilal Khan, who was spotted looking calm and composed in footage from the 2023 rave, told Bristol247 that he was suprised by the turnout. 'They said there was only going to be about ten people, but there was a it more,' he said at the time. 'It was fun, I didn't dance but I was watching. It was good music.' A controversial teacher who was 'sacked for refusing to use gender neutral pronouns' says students at his former school are 'showing support' for his protests. Enoch Burke found himself in the centre of Ireland's culture wars after he refused to refer to a transitioning transgender student's pronouns in May 2022. It sparked a chain of events that has led to Enoch being jailed for repeatedly showing up at Wilson's Hospital School in County Westmeath after he was fired two years ago. Enoch, who has amassed over 193,000 in fines for refusing to comply with the High Court order to stay away from the school, was released from prison for a third time on 20 December 2024. In an attempt to deter Enoch from returning to Wilson's Hospital School, the judge doubled the daily fine from 700 to 1,400. However, this didn't stop the teacher, who is still receiving his full salary while he appeals his sacking, from turning up at the school on the first day of term yesterday. Although the temperature dropped below zero at points, Enoch stood outside his former place of employment for the duration of its teaching hours yesterday. Speaking to the Irish Daily Mirror, Enoch claimed students had shown their support for him by waving from their classrooms. Pictured: Enoch Burke outside Wilson's Hospital School in County Westmeath in defiance of their court order He said: 'I should be in a classroom today, in a heated classroom doing the job I love and teaching the children I love. 'Theres only one reason I was pushed out into the cold and its because I said I would not accept transgenderism.' However, the teacher is adamant that he is not 'protesting' but merely 'reporting for work'. He added: 'I was welcomed by students knocking on the windows and waving from the classrooms and showing their support. This could all be over today, all of this horrific situation could be over today if the judges did what they should have done.' Although Enoch has been forcibly removed by the Gardai before, he was not disturbed while standing outside the reception from 9:15 to 3:45 yesterday. What's more, Enoch was supported by 20 protestors, who stood outside the school gates holding signs. One read: 'Enoch Burke is not a criminal. He is a Christian teacher.' 'Parents and teachers, your silence is deafening,' another read. 'Stand up for Enoch Burke: wrongfully imprisoned teacher, Christian, son and brother.' Pictured: Teacher Enoch Burke outside Wilson's Hospital School yesterday. The former history teacher stood outside in the sub-zero temperatures and said he was 'reporting from work' Enoch Burke was supported by 20 protestors, who stood outside the school gates holding signs Wilson's Hospital School in County Westmeath, Ireland. The former teacher took issue with the former headteacher asking staff to refer to a transgender student by their new name and pronouns Enoch has always previously been driven to his former place of work by his father - but relied on a family member yesterday while Sean Burke serves two months in prison for assaulting a female Garda. Sean assaulted Garda Victoria Fisher on 7 March 2023, the same day his son Enoch's case was taken to the Court of Appeal. The judge decided to maintain a court order stating that Enoch must stay away from Wilson's Hospital School premises. The father-of-10 pleaded not guilty at Dublin District court and pledged to represent himself in proceedings. Sean defiantly said that the court hearing would last 'an hour, maybe two', according to the Irish Independent. However, local media reports the hearing began before midday on 9 May and ended at around 11pm. The trial heard Sean, who is in his 60s, 'flung' Victoria Fisher to the ground 'like a red rag to a bull' after his wife was escorted out of the Court of Appeal. Enoch's father held up a sign outside the school in December 2023 reading: 'Christmas in Mountjoy for Christian teacher' Enoch's mother Martina protests outside the school, where the annual carol concert was being held in December 2023 Former History and German teacher Enoch Burke seen outside Wilson's Hospital School in January 2023, violating their court order to stay away Enoch Burke outside Wilson's Hospital School in Co Westmeath in January 2023 - after he was released from prison Sean's daughter Ammi also pleaded not guilty to obstructing a garda, who had arrested younger brother Simeon for a 'volatile' breach of the peace. Judge Michele Finan found Sean and Ammi guilty of the charges, which carry a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment. Meanwhile, obstruction of arrest can result in one year in prison. The judge said she believed people had 'lost the run of themselves' during the incident and applied the Probation Act for Sean Burke, which means he will not have a recorded conviction. She noted Sean's previous lack of criminal record and said she believed he acted out of concern for his wife - but said there was no justification for assaulting the garda. Ammi was also ordered to pay a 400 fine, which must be paid within a year. However, Ammi told the court she has no intention of paying it. Enoch Burke pictured leaving the the Court of Appeal in Dublin, following a unanimous ruling to dismiss his appeal against court orders made against him in March 2023 In Spring 2022, headteacher Niamh McShane sent an email to her staff informing them of the student's new name and pronouns. After receiving the email, Burke is said to have raised his issue with the change of pronouns during a staff meeting on May. While giving evidence in a later trial, deputy headteacher John Galligan said that Burke 'erupted' during the meeting and 'changed colour completely'. According to the former deputy head, Burke whose 'forte' was said to have been extracurricular debating spoke for a 'good five to eight minutes'. After this, guidance counsellor Freda Malone told a court that she approached Burke to tell him she was sorry he was so upset and noted that he had tears in his eyes. In a follow-up meeting between the headteacher, her deputy and Burke, Mr Galligan claimed the jailed teacher repeated how he was 'opposed to transgenderism' as a result of his religion. Former history and German teacher Burke seen arriving at the Four Courts in Dublin after being dismissed by the school Burke's sister Ammi is forcibly removed from the Court of Appeal in March 2023 for interrupting a judgment being read out Following this, Burke is said to have publicly interjected after a religious service celebrating the school's 260th anniversary to criticise Ms McShane's supposed 'demand' that staff refer to the student by their chosen pronouns. In 2022, Ammi had attended a meeting between Enoch and his former employer, which determined if he was going to be suspended or face any kind of disciplinary. Enoch's former boss Niamh McShane submitted a stage-four report to the chair of the board John Rogers about Burke's outbursts which prompted the representative to arrange a meeting with the teacher. The purpose of the meeting was to decide if Burke should be suspended or face any kind of disciplinary. Burke's sister Ammi is said to have joined him for the meeting which was adjourned for 15 minutes by Mr Rodgers, who said it was 'going nowhere'. When the representatives returned to the meeting room, the Burkes had left. After this, the board made the unanimous decision to place Burke on paid leave while they dealt with the misconduct allegation. According to Mr Galligan, there were growing concerns 'about what [Burke's] next protest might and the form it would take' in the new school year. Enoch's siblings Ammi and Josiah Burke seen outside an Irish court in October 2023. The pair have been vocal in their support of Enoch Burke seen arriving at the High Court, Dublin, after he was committed to Mountjoy Prison in Dublin for breaching a temporary court order that he was to stay away from his workplace Despite being put on leave, Burke is said to have attended a staff meeting at the start of the school year. After repeatedly arriving on school grounds, Burke was allegedly asked to leave 'every hour' by the deputy head. The ex-deputy head said: '[Burke] would be there for the day, standing in the room reading from a book. Thats where he remained.' Mr Galligan says Burke refused to leave the premises - insisting he was 'there to work and attend meetings'. In May 2023, the Irish High Court ruled that the school had acted lawfully in suspending Burke and said Enoch had been 'trespassing' on their grounds. In an attempt to keep Burke away from the premises while they conducted the investigation, the school took out a temporary court order against the teacher which still didn't deter him. In August 2022, Enoch was sued by the school for his failure to comply with the court order and later arrested for being in contempt of court. At his initial hearing on September 6 that year, Mr Burke told Judge Quinn: 'I am a teacher and I don't want to go to prison. I want to be in my classroom today, that's where I was this morning when I was arrested.' 'I love my school, with its motto Res Non Verba, actions not words, but I am here today because I said I would not call a boy a girl.' When the case went to the High Court the following week, Burke, who was representing himself, maintained that he would not purge his contempt of court for violating the order, insisting that he was being persecuted for his faith. When asked by Judge Eileen Roberts if he would abide by the order, Burke said: I cannot do that. I go back to jail as a law-abiding citizen of the state always. But God first. Queen Mary of Denmark looked chic as she hosted a New Year's for reception for officers from the armed forces alongside her husband King Frederik on Tuesday. The event was held at at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, and followed two receptions held yesterday, including one for the Diplomatic Corps. Mother-of-four Mary looked typically chic as she attended today's event, donning a full-length grey gown. The long sleeved frock featured a detailed floral-style pattern in a slightly darker shade of grey on the skirt, while the top of the dress was, in contrast, plain. Handmade by luxury Danish designer Julie Fagerholt, Mary has worn the frock on a number of occasions, including the 2023 reception for the Diplomatic Corps. Australian-born Mary, who has generally considered popular in Denmark - not least for her efforts in mastering the tricky language - wore a blue sash over her outfit. Her chestnut tresses were pulled into a half-up, half-down do, showing off a pair of statement dangling diamond earrings. The 52-year-old looked fresh-faced with a natural make-up look, boasting dewy skin, with very subtle smoky brown eye-shadow, and a pink lip. Denmark's King Frederik and Queen Mary arrive at the royal couple's New Year's reception for officers from the armed forces at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen on Tuesday Australian-born Queen Mary looked chic in a grey dress handmade by luxury Danish designer Julie Fagerholt Following Queen Margrethe's abdication last year, this year marks the first time the King has hosted these New Year events as monarch She completed the look with bold scarlet red nails, and a small grey clutch bag which matched the colour of her dress. Her husband King Frederik, 56, looked equally dapper, wearing military dress uniform for the annual celebration. He wore white gloves with his navy blue ensemble, and carried a cane. Among the guests were officers from the Armed Forces and the Danish Emergency Management Agency. Representatives from various major national organisations also attended, as well as King Frederik's brother Prince Joachim. The string of New Year engagements marks their first time King Frederik has hosted the events as monarch. Last year, his mother 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. 52-year-old Queen Mary looked fresh faced, opting for a natural make-up look, and simple hair style The royal's choice of hair style showed off her dazzling statement earrings On January 1, Queen Mary of Denmark hosted the Royal Family's annual New Year's dinner for the first time alongside her husband King Frederik. 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. Although it was now Mary and Frederik's turn to host the New Year's dinner, Margrethe was still on hand at the 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. The royal couple waved at onlookers as they travelled by carriage from Amalienborg Palace to the New Year's reception at Christiansborg Palace It has been a busy few weeks for the Danish royal couple, who have hosted a number of festive events King Frederik and Queen Mary were snapped smiling as they entered the event - one of a string of recent New Year receptions The Danish Royal Household's recent New Year appearances come 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. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge has given fresh thoughts on the Gregg Wallace scandal, saying it'll be 'horrific' if the allegations against the MasterChef star are found to be true. Speaking to The Times, Kerridge, 51, who runs a string of successful foodie pubs including The Hand and Flowers in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, said that the food industry was all about making 'people feel comfortable'. Wallace, 60, is currently under investigation over a string of allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour - including from Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark - and stepped down from hosting the hit BBC cooking show in November. When asked by Sky News to comment on the allegations back in early December, Kerridge, who's married to artist Beth Cullen Kerridge, told the broadcaster Wallace was 'always full of jokes and always full of charisma'. Admitting he knew nothing about the allegations, he added: 'I've known him for a long time, I've always known him as a high energy person that's always got something to say that is fun and ongoing. I've enjoyed times when we've filmed together.' However, Kerridge is now seemingly now distancing himself from the MasterChef presenter, telling The Times today: 'I dont really know Gregg in terms of hanging out with him.' The Great British Menu judge said: 'If the accusations about Gregg Wallace are all found to be true, then its horrific. 'I work in a world where we try to make people feel comfortable, not uncomfortable.' An investigation into allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour continues against MasterChef star Gregg Wallace; chef Tom Kerridge, who initially described Wallace as 'full of jokes and always full of charisma' when the allegations first came to light this week told The Times it will be 'horrific' if they're found to be true Kerridge, who's a judge on Great British Menu, added in fresh comments this week that he 'didn't really know Gregg in terms of hanging out with him' Wallace was initially bullish in the face of the allegations, taking to Instagram to say they mostly came from 'middle class women of a certain age'. The former greengrocer later apologised for the controversial comments which caused a PR storm. The under-fire presenter said of his middle class women slur: 'I wasn't in a good headspace when I posted it. I've been under a huge amount of stress, a lot of emotion. Among those to come forward with allegations against Wallace is a woman called Lisa, not her real name, who worked on BBC show Eat Well for Less in 2015. She told the BBC Wallace 'touched her inappropriately' when they were filming in a supermarket. Among those to come forward with allegations against Wallace is a woman called Lisa, not her real name, who claims Wallace 'touched her inappropriately' when they were filming in a supermarket for the BBC (Wallace in 2011) Wallace had presented MasterChef, including spin-off versions such as Celebrity and The Professionals, since 2005 (Pictured with co-host John Torode) Grace Dent will now judge the upcoming series of MasterChef with John Torode 'He brushed past me at the checkout, and touched my bum with his waist and penis and laughed and said 'oooh you liked that didn't you',' she alleged. 'It was the way he reacted, other people would've said 'oh I'm sorry can I squeeze by' which would've been ok.' Lisa also claims that she felt she had to continue working but was 'not ok about it', describing it as 'slimy and disgusting'. She claims she raised it with a senior colleague but that nothing was ever done. Banijay say they have no record of this incident being raised at RDF Television, which produced Eat Well For Less. A second woman claims that she came across Wallace while working at an event in 2022. The woman, known only as Sarah, claims that Wallace asked her to take him to the car park at the end of the event. 'As we walked down, he started putting his arm around me, saying 'go on, hold my hand, don't you want to stand next to me',' she told the BBC. Food critic Grace Dent, 51, is set to replace Wallace on MasterChef while the investigation into his behaviour takes place. Dent will judge the upcoming 20th series of Celebrity MasterChef, having appeared regularly as a guest and then even a contestant on MasterChef: Battle Of The Critics in 2022. Inside Tom Holland and Zendaya's VERY down to earth lives The diamond ring appears to be made by London jeweler Jessica McCormack The actor reportedly popped the question between Christmas and New Year Tom Holland might just be the most perfect man on the planet after internet sleuths discovered he seemingly proposed to Zendaya with a ring she'd eyed up over two years ago. It was revealed over the weekend that the Spider-Man actor, 28, had proposed to the Euphoria actress, also 28, after she was spotted flashing a huge diamond on her wedding finger at the Golden Globes 2025 on Sunday. Since news of their engagement went viral, social media users found that Zendaya had liked a picture of the huge diamond - made by London jeweler Jessica McCormack - in September 2022 and that it looked strikingly similar to the one she was wearing at the Golden Globes. Naturally, they were stunned by the lengths Tom appeared to take in order to find Zendaya's dream ring. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one exclaimed: 'Tom Holland you sneaky b***ard!!!' Another added: 'He shopped her likes?? What a man...' 'Tom was taking NOTES,' a third posted. A fourth said: 'That's a man who knows his woman! So happy for her.' Tom Holland is being praised after social media users appeared to discover that he proposed to Zendaya with a ring she liked on Instagram two years ago Zendaya had liked a snap of a ring by Jessica McCormack in September 2022 Others are convinced that the couple have already tied the knot. One speculated: 'I truly believe they're married now, they're very private and if she's wearing the ring I'd say they're one step ahead of everyone.' 'The wedding probably already happened,' another added. DailyMail.com has contacted Tom's rep for comment. Zendaya immediately sparked engagement rumors at the Golden Globes after she flashed a massive diamond ring on her wedding finger. While her burnt tangerine Louis Vuitton gown and her new bob hairstyle certainly turned heads, it was the stunning solitaire diamond ring on her left hand that had everyone talking - and it has been valued at $500,000. Others were quick to notice it looked similar to engagement ring designs by London based jeweler Jessica McCormack. Jessica's page also posted a snap of a similar ring back in September describing it as an eastwest cushion ring. Zendaya sparked engagement rumors at the Golden Globes after she flashed a massive diamond ring on her wedding finger. Eagle-eyed spectators noted the ring looked strikingly similar to the one she liked on social media years ago Laura Taylor, jeweler specializing in engagement and wedding rings at Lorel Diamonds, has estimated it could be worth around $500,000. She told DailyMail.com: 'The ring itself features a sizable diamond, likely in the 56 carat range, set on a simple yellow gold band.' On Monday, TMZ reported that Tom popped the question between Christmas and New Years. And sources exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com that he took an 'old-fashioned' approach and got permission from her family before he asked for his Zendaya's hand in marriage. Insiders have claimed that Tom proposed in-between Christmas and New Year's Day The Hollywood couple have been an item since 2017 'The proposal was sweet and romantic and happened over the holidays,' the insider dished. 'He did it the old-fashioned way and got permission from her folks. Everyone is thrilled.' The source continued: 'They are the most normal couple at home, and she is ready to spend her life with him. 'She has gotten everything she dreamed of and marrying Tom and starting a family is next on her list.' Zendaya and Tom met on the set of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017, but predominantly keep their relationship out of the public eye. OnlyFans is now a multibillion-dollar company, raking in a record-breaking $6.6 billion in revenue last year. With so much cash being splashed on the subscription-based site, it's no surprise that some creators are quitting their 9-to-5 jobs and turning to extreme stunts to cash-in on the OnlyFans boom. British sex worker Bonnie Blue outraged the world after bedding barely-legal students during Spring Break and Schoolies, while Down Under, Annie Knight proudly claims to be 'Australia's most sexually active woman'. But it's Lily Phillips who has captured the public's attention after starring in the YouTube documentary, I Slept With 100 Men in One Day. The 23-year-old famously broke down in tears after the extreme sexcapade - before vowing to up the ante by sleeping with 1,000 men in 24 hours. Whether or not she's able to pull off the eye-watering feat remains to be seen, but before she goes through with it, she may want to look at what happened to some of the women who came before her. Kim Halsey, best known by her stage name Houston, became an X-rated sensation in the late '90s after breaking the world record for the most sexual partners in one session for her now notorious film, The World's Biggest Gang Bang III. The plan going in was to sleep with 500 men, easily breaking Jasmin St. Claire's record of 300, but the stunt was such a success that Houston made it to 620 men before calling it a day. Kim Halsey, best known by her stage name Houston, became an X-rated sensation in the late '90s after breaking the world record for the most sexual partners in one session Houston has been called 'the original Lily Phillips'. Phillips went viral late last year after sleeping with 100 men in a single night The movie became an instant bestseller and catapulted the single mom to instant infamy. She appeared all over TV and radio, signed a record deal, toured the world, dated celebrities, and even auctioned off a piece of her own labia for six figures. However, behind the scenes, Houston was dealing with a dangerous drug addiction, financial issues, and creepy male fans who recognized her everywhere she went. While Houston publicly portrayed herself as an empowered adult superstar during the height of her fame, the truth about her raunchy career couldn't be any more grim. In order to land her career-making role in the record-breaking film, Houston first had to partake in a taboo sex act with one of the video's producers. Detailing the ordeal in her 2012 autobiography titled Pretty Enough: The Story of the Gang Bang Queen, Houston wrote, 'When I agreed to do it, he did everything he could to degrade me as much as possible.' She continued, 'Spitting on me, calling me a w***e, doing everything he could to make me feel like a piece of s**t.' Once she secured her starring role, Houston got a religious tattoo of a cherub. On the big day of filming her record-breaking adult film, Houston, dressed like a sexy speed racer, was surrounded by throngs of men, fluffers, lighting technicians, and a camera crew The plan going in was to sleep with 500 men, but the stunt was such a success that Houston made it to an eye-watering 620 fellas before calling it a day 'It was my way of asking God to forgive me for what I was about to do,' she confessed. 'It may surprise you to hear that, but my faith has always been very important to me, even when I put it on the backburner sometimes.' On the big day of filming, Houston, dressed like a sexy speed racer, was surrounded by throngs of men, fluffers, lighting technicians, and a camera crew. She admits that she used 'porn math' to reach 620 sex acts in just eight hours, meaning that any penetration, no matter how brief, was counted. While her suitors all had to be tested to prove they were disease free, the group weren't exactly what you'd describe as gentlemen. Describing the participants, Houston said that the diverse gang included a 'speed freak in full-blown psychosis,' a Burt Reynolds impersonator, and worst of all, a male performer who had put his own mother in a porn film to pay off a gambling debt. 'One by one they climbed on top of me, and their faces became a blur,' Houston wrote. The movie became an instant bestseller and catapulted the single mom to instant infamy At the height of her fame, Houston appeared all over TV and radio, signed a record deal, toured the world, and even dated A-list celebrities After passing 500, Houston decided to keep going 'for another round or two' until she was so exhausted that she had to stop. 'Something was collapsing inside me, physically and emotionally,' she recalled. 'I felt as if somebody had aimed a flamethrower at my crotch. I retreated backstage and applied ice to my swollen and battered vagina, fighting back tears.' After breaking the previous record and then some, Houston and the crew celebrated by chowing down on mozzarella sticks at fast food chain TGI Friday's. 'The next day, I caught a flight to Mexico and spent the next two weeks recovering,' she wrote. After a short break, Houston got back to work by touring strip clubs across the country and reveling in her newfound celebrity status. By the end of the year, she'd pocketed close to a million dollars and was the highest-paid feature dancer next to porn legend Jenna Jameson. 'I had more than enough to pay for the cost of raising my daughter,' she wrote. 'I bought a house in Granada Hills and several cars. I'm not sure where the rest of the excess cash went, but I'd guess a fair amount went to drug dealers, liquor stores, clothing designers, home remodelers, and plastic surgeons.' Behind the scenes, Houston was dealing with a dangerous drug addiction, financial issues, and creepy male fans who recognized her everywhere she went Houston eventually quit drugs and pornography and joined a Christian church that focused on sex workers As her fame and bank account grew, so did Houston's addiction to both drugs and plastic surgery. She confessed to using cocaine and crystal meth to keep her energized for her grueling strip club gigs, and would often go for days without eating. By 2002, her bank account was dwindling and the house she'd bought with her hard-earned bucks was facing foreclosure. 'I had always been a functional addict in that I was obviously addicted to all the drugs I was doing, but I somehow managed to always do the work I was supposed to do in order to provide for my daughter and myself,' she wrote. 'But by this point, there was so much money going into drugs that no matter how much I was earning, it just wasn't enough,' she continued. 'One day I realized that I was going to die soon if I didn't change anything.' On top of her crippling drug addiction, Houston was also battling a penchant for plastic surgery that had almost killed her. 'No matter how many compliments I've gotten, no matter how many people told me how attractive they thought I was, no matter how many beauty contests I won, I never felt pretty enough,' she admitted. 'Plastic surgery offered me the ability to fix things I hated about myself, but as time went on, it became an addiction, an obsession.' She detailed her spiral into drug addiction in her 2012 memoir, Pretty Enough: The Story of the Gang Bang Queen At one point, she almost died after getting a labiaplasty and breast revision in one sitting. She was replacing her silicone implants with saline ones at the time, but after the surgery, one of her breasts clotted and cut off the oxygen to her brain. It swelled up to the size of a watermelon before Houston passed out and was rushed into emergency surgery, which narrowly saved her life. In an attempt to turn her life around, Houston fled Los Angeles for Las Vegas, with the goal of starting fresh in a new city. However, she took her drug addiction with her, and admitted to having her dealers back in LA mail her drugs in bath salt containers so she could keep up her habit. Eventually she became so drug addled that she couldn't pick her daughter up from school. Reaching her lowest point, Houston turned to the only person left that could help her. 'I crawled into my closet and crawled on the flood and I prayed,' she wrote. 'God, please help me get off the drugs. Please. I want to be a mother for once. I don't want to be Houston any more,' she begged. She decided to go cold turkey, and after finally getting clean, the blonde bombshell quit porn and enrolled in real estate school. Unfortunately, this wasn't the end of her troubles. OnlyFans star Lily Phillips is attempting to surpass Houston's sex record by bedding 1,000 men in 24 hours The 23-year-old famously broke down in tears after sleeping with 100 men in one night After earning her real estate license and joining a reputable agency in Nevada, Houston was fired when her bosses discovered her X-rated past. She pleaded for her job and told her bosses that she'd been out of the industry for close to a decade, but they wouldn't budge. 'There's no way we can have someone with your reputation on the front lines for us,' they told her. A week after getting fired, Houston was diagnosed with stage three cancer. Having blown through all her porn money and now unemployed, Houston turned to her parents, among others, to help pay for her treatment. She had fifteen lymph nodes removed from her arm and miraculously, despite being given a 20 percent chance of survival, she lived. The experience only increased Houston's faith in God, and she eventually joined a church that focused on embracing people who had come from sex work. 'Now, I feel I have a mission in Christ,' she wrote in her memoir. 'You don't just have to sell your body to make money.' Houston's hardships serve as a cautionary tale to many of today's OnlyFans starlets, who are pushing the envelope further and further in a bid for fame and fortune. British sex worker Bonnie Blue (pictured) outraged the world after bedding barely-legal students during Spring Break and Schoolies Annie Knight is making six figures a month as 'Australia's most sexually active woman' Lily recently shocked the world after revealing that she'd had sex with over 100 men in one night as part of a stunt to promote her OnlyFans - and that her next goal is to bed 1,000 men in 24 hours. Her antics have even shocked some of her fellow sex workers, including OnlyFans sensation Kassidie Kosa, who blasted Lily's outrageous behavior and warned others not to follow in her footsteps. 'Honestly, I think doing something that extreme can be a form of self-harm, even if people don't always see it that way,' she previously told DailyMail.com. 'It feels like it could come from a deeper emotional place whether it's the need for attention, validation or just trying to stand out in such a competitive space like OnlyFans,' she continued. 'I totally respect that people can make their own choices but this kind of behavior isn't sustainable or healthy in the long run.' Kassidie, who currently earns seven figures on OnlyFans, also fears that Lily's behavior could encourage other models to go to extreme lengths to create content. 'It also sends a message to others in the industry that pushing yourself to dangerous extremes is normal, and that's just not okay,' she said. 'I truly think she needs help and I say that with so much respect. The fact that she now plans to sleep with even more men next time is really alarming. 'It's not sustainable, it's not healthy, and it shouldn't be normalized,' she warned. She revealed her real voice while on the red carpet at the Golden Globes 2025 The White Lotus actress, 63, has sent the internet after dropping her ditsy twang Jennifer Coolidge has sent her fans into meltdown after she revealed her real talking voice at the Golden Globes 2025. The White Lotus star, 63, is known for her talking in a hilariously ditsy twang and has made a habit of putting on the voice for many of her acting appearances. But fans across the world were left feeling 'bamboozled' after Jennifer was captured speaking in her normal tone during an interview on the red carpet. In a mind-boggling clip, Jennifer was seen listening to comedian Matt Friend as he impersonated her sipping on a cold drink ahead of the grand ceremony. And when she was eventually asked for her verdict, Jennifer said in her natural accent: 'You were very good. You were right up there with Ariana's [Grande].' Staggered fans couldn't believe what they were hearing and rushed to social media in shock. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one said: 'Has my entire life been a lie?!' Another penned: 'I feel bamboozled.' Jennifer Coolidge has sent the globe into meltdown after she revealed her real talking voice at the Golden Globes 2025 Fans across the world were left feeling 'bamboozled' after she was captured speaking in her normal voice 'Why does he sound more like Jennifer Coolidge than Jennifer Coolidge?' asked a third. 'I've never heard her real voice till now,' a fourth commented. 'Somehow I just want her to have the other voice lol.' 'All these years.. I thought I am shooketh,' said a fifth. 'This is shattering my worldview,' a sixth wrote, while another exclaimed: 'My life is a sham!!!' Jennifer, who was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, has one of the most distinctive voices in Hollywood. Over the course of her career, she has hammed it up for her acting roles, including on Legally Blonde (2001). This isn't the first time that fans have been left shocked after hearing a celebrity's real voice. In March, Kanye West's wife Bianca Censori had many stunned when a video of her talking at the CFS Summit in Paris in 2022 resurfaced. In the now viral clip, Jennifer was seen listening to comedian Matt Friend as he impersonated her sipping on a cold drink At the time, many had never heard her speak before. That same month, Shaggy left many aghast when he used his real voice in an interview where he also admitted to playing up his Jamaican accent for his singing career. The rapper (born Orville Richard Burrell) was born in Kingston, Jamaica, but moved to New York City with his mother when he turned 18. He shared part of a new interview on his TikTok over the weekend, which surprised many fans who had never heard his 'real' voice before. Shaggy also revealed the history behind his famous accent, which he developed to mock his drill instructors. 'I got this voice by mocking drill instructors in the military. Because in the Marines, the drill instructors would go, "Yeah boy, drop and give me 20, let's go," he said, using the voice he'd use on hits like Boombastic. Jennifer was among the celebrity presenters at this year's Golden Globes She picked up the award for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy on Behalf of Jeremy Allen White Elsewhere at the Golden Globes on Sunday, Jennifer had the perfect response when she was stopped by a reporter from who asked her: 'What's exciting you about being a woman in Hollywood in 2025?' Not skipping a beat, Jennifer replied: 'You can eat whatever you want now.' The video quickly went viral on TikTok with fans praising the icon for 'keeping it real' while others called her 'a national treasure.' Jennifer - who was one of the presenters during the evening - also turned heads wearing a black, ruffled dress that fell down towards her ankles for Hollywood's first big night of the 2025 awards season. Before heading inside to the main ceremony, she was also joined by her 'mystery date' - who was revealed to be her close pal and fellow actor, Tim Bagley. A popular fan page for comatose porn star Emily Willis is officially closing down following a lack of health updates about the adult performer. Willis, 25, fell into a 'vegetative coma' early last year while being treated at a Malibu rehab center for addiction. Her family haven't provided any updates on her condition in months, leading to the star's most active and popular fan page to officially shut down. 'I was thinking about retiring this page a month after hearing the news about Emily,' the @emilywillis_sexyfanpage account wrote this week. 'Want to thank everyone who ever supported this page and wish everyone a good life. Will be praying everyday for @emilywillisx3 to recover from what she has,' they continued. 'Also thank you Emily for following and supporting this page means a lot to me. Also support Emily GoFundMe page with the link in my page. Bye everyone and thank you for the support these past few years.' Willis was rushed to a medical facility in Thousand Oaks, California, on February 5, after being found unresponsive at a Malibu rehab center. She suffered a cardiac arrest before slipping into a coma. A popular fan page for comatose porn star Emily Willis is officially closing down following a lack of health updates about the adult performer Emily's family haven't provided any updates on her condition in months, leading to the star's most active and popular fan page to officially shut down Despite regaining consciousness, she is unable to speak and can only track objects with her eyes, according to reports from last year. Her stepfather Michael Willis told TMZ that the performer weighed a mere 80 pounds when she checked into the rehab facility. Doctors now fear she may never move again as she could be suffering from 'locked-in syndrome.' He added that Emily wasn't eating much before seeking treatment and was 'very open' about her struggles with substance abuse. Mystery still surrounds Emily's condition, as her stepfather claims he has been unable to obtain a physical copy of the toxicology report. Doctors reportedly told the family that the results came back negative. The Willis family launched a GoFundMe page last year to help cover the mounting medical bills and travel expenses as they rally around Emily. The campaign has so far raised over $103,000 of its $60,000 goal. 'With hearts heavier than we ever imagined possible, we find ourselves reaching out for support and care for our beloved Emily Willis a cherished daughter, sister, and a beacon of light in the lives of all who know her,' her family wrote online. Willis, 25, fell into a 'vegetative coma' early last year while being treated at a Malibu rehab center for addiction The Willis family launched a GoFundMe page last year to help cover the mounting medical bills and travel expenses as they rally around Emily 'Recently, Emily's world, and ours, was turned upside down when she was admitted to the hospital, marking the beginning of an incredibly tough and unforeseen battle. With every ounce of her remarkable strength and bravery, Emily is fighting.' 'The path to recovery stretches far ahead of her, requiring lots of care. The weight of this position extends beyond the emotional and physical; it bears down upon us financially,' the family explained. 'With mounting medical bills, the necessities of travel, all while the regular flow of life's expenses continue,' they continued. 'Every donation, no matter its size, will go directly towards easing these burdens, allowing us to devote our energy and resources to Emily's healing. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers to give her the strength for recovery,' the family pleaded. In March, the porn star's stepfather denied rumors that she overdosed and says that she is in a 'vegetative coma' and 'fighting for her life.' She had been staying at the facility to receive treatment for addiction, although it is unclear for what exactly and for how long. Willis was born Litzy Lara Banulos in Argentina on December 29, 1998. She relocated to Utah when she was seven after her mother married a man from the US. The adult film star was raised in a Mormon household and learned teachings of the Latter-Day Saints Movement. She later moved to California when she was a teenager and made her adult film debut in 2017 with GDP Studio. Since her 2017 debut, Willis has appeared in more than 700 films throughout her career. She's collaborated with porn brands such as Reality King and Evil Angel, and was even featured in Penthouse Magazine. Willis has also won several awards for her work, including Female Performer of The Year at the 2021 AVN Awards, known as the Oscars of Porn. She has also participated in several online interviews and she even spoke about her parents' reaction to her porn career in an episode of PlugTalk in 2021. 'They thought it would be a one-time thing and that I would be done,' said Willis. 'It was rough at first. They didn't talk to me for like two months.' Willis later confirmed that her parents could see that she was being responsible and wasn't 'partying or being crazy.' 'They started opening up to me again and now we are super close,' Willis stated. Sue Ellson (pictured) shared her thoughts on coffee badging A new office trend dubbed 'coffee badging' is sweeping through workplaces - but many believe it could harm your career and end remote work. 'Coffee badging' sees hybrid working employees going to the office, grabbing a coffee and interacting with colleagues before returning home early to work. The craze took over TikTok last year but the trend caused a stir among thousands, with some claiming the dishonesty could cause managers to end hybrid work. However, others said if the work is being completed, behaviour such as coffee badging should be acceptable. Coffee badging took off in popularity in attempt for workers to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It also demonstrates the ongoing demand for hybrid work arrangements and flexibility after the pandemic. Melbourne author and career expert Sue Ellson told FEMAIL employers need to be clear on what needs to be complete and how employees can maximise their time and input. 'It may require some difficult conversations, but you cannot afford to make any assumptions and most employees are going to want some level of flexibility and autonomy,' she said. 'Managers who do not make the attendance and output requirements crystal clear will see employees working within the rules but also in their favour'. 'Coffee badging' sees hybrid working employees going to the office, grabbing a coffee and interacting with colleagues before returning home early to work (stock image) 'If someone can take work home, use AI to get it done faster, commute in to work, swipe on and off to meet their time in the office requirements and still be paid a full wage whilst also running a side hustle or other duties, I think many will try it.' Ms Ellson believes workplaces are moving closer to a task-based economy where workers are paid for the completion of the job or taks rather than for hours per day. The trend sparked conversations on TikTok and many were onboard with the behaviour. 'When the older generation finally retires, well be free to work wherever we want thank god,' one wrote on TikTok. 'This is the low key best move. You get the best of both worlds. You get to interact and be seen, and also enjoy the quiet focused time of working from home. We can have it all!' anothe added. 'Coffee badging happens when company leaders prioritise perception over productivity. Often due to lack of self awareness - they often don't even realise they're rewarding people just for being present,' a third added. Someone else said: 'Work is a function not a location. Is the work getting done or not?' 'If the employee works well at home theres no need to be in office. Its about control not productivity,' another added. Last year 'quiet quitting' was trend on people's minds. The phrase follows a series of 'quiet' practices - including 'quiet quitting', 'quiet hiring' and 'quiet firing' - but this time it's employers who are slowly cutting back an employee's responsibilities in the hope that they will eventually quit. Ms Ellson believes the controversial corporate trend is an 'old practice with a new name' that could create mistrust within a company if employers practice quiet cutting. 'The modern workplace is changing very rapidly and quiet cutting appears to be another symptom associated with this change,' Ms Ellson told FEMAIL. 'Employees need to be aware that a job is much more than just "completing tasks under direction". There is an exchange of payment for tasks and a relationship that requires careful management on both sides.' The world's best beaches are in Victoria and Queensland Two Australian beaches have been crowned the best in the world by Lonely Planet, with Whitehaven Beach in Queensland and Squeaky Beach in Victoria taking the top two spots on the coveted list. Known for their pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and unique natural features, these beaches are quintessential Aussie gems that have captured the hearts of travellers globally. Standing proud at number one, Queensland's Whitehaven Beach is often referred to as 'heaven on earth'. Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, this seven-kilometre stretch of powder-white silica sand and swirling turquoise waters is postcard-perfect. Whitehaven's sand is 98 per cent pure silica, which gives it its bright, white colour and a uniquely soft, almost silky texture. The beach is part of Whitsunday Island, the largest of the 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays group, and it's only accessible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter - adding to its exclusive, untouched allure. Travellers from all over the world make the trip to experience the stunning views from Hill Inlet, a lookout point that offers panoramic vistas of the beach's iconic swirling sandbars. With year-round water temperatures averaging 26C, Whitehaven Beach is the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on one of the world's most beautiful shores. Two Australian beaches have been crowned the best in the world, with Whitehaven Beach in Queensland coming in first on the coveted list Located in the heart of the Whitsundays, this seven-kilometre stretch of powder-white silica sand and swirling turquoise waters is postcard-perfect With year-round water temperatures averaging 26C, Whitehaven Beach is the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on one of the world's most beautiful shores Coming in second place on the list is Squeaky Beach, located in Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria. The beach is named after the distinctive squeak that visitors hear underfoot as they walk across the sand. The unique sound is created by rounded quartz grains, which rub together when stepped on. Perfect for adventurous families and nature lovers, Squeaky Beach is surrounded by protected wilderness, offering hidden rock pools and granite boulders that create a natural maze for visitors to explore. For those looking to stretch their legs, Wilsons Promontory offers several walking tracks nearby, including the Lilly Pilly Gully Walk, where birdwatchers can spot Eastern Yellow Robins and Superb Fairywrens. The beach itself looks out onto distant islands and granite headlands, making it the ideal spot to disconnect from the city and reconnect with nature. The national park is also one of Victoria's most beloved ecotourism destinations. In addition to its stunning beaches, it's home to iconic Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and emus. Coming in second place on the' list is Squeaky Beach, located in Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria The beach is named after the distinctive squeak that visitors hear underfoot as they walk across the sand Perfect for adventurous families and nature lovers, Squeaky Beach is surrounded by protected wilderness, offering hidden rock pools and granite boulders that create a natural maze for visitors to explore The park is only accessible by car, with Yanakie being the nearest town to the park entrance. Travel Victoria recommends day trips for those short on time, but for visitors looking to stay overnight, the park offers camping and accommodation options. Just be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife after dusk, as many animals become more active at night. Travellers have sung the praises of both beaches online. 'Squeaky Beach is such a fun spot. Kids love the sound of the sand, but the views and rock formations are what make it unforgettable,' a mum said. 'The water at Whitehaven is the bluest I've ever seen, and the sand feels like powder,' another wrote. An American couple added: 'We visited Squeaky Beach for the squeaky sand, but it ended up being one of the most beautiful beaches we've ever seen. The whole national park is incredible.' What are the top 10 beaches in the world? Advertisement Use MailOnline's ultimate NHS data tracker to see exactly how your hospital is faring. Our postcode search tool, hailed by NHS chiefs, utilises monthly performance figures collated centrally. It covers all 120-plus NHS trusts and can be searched by entering the first half of your postcode. It reveals the share of patients who are seen within four hours in overwhelmed A&E units, as well as how their trust compares to England's overall average. Fewer than half of patients attending major casualty units were seen within that time-frame the NHS's target at dozens of trusts. Performances against three key cancer targets are also exposed, as are the backlogs for routine procedures such as hip and knee replacements. Under the health service's own rulebook, all patients needing treatment have the right to be seen within 18 weeks. Your browser does not support iframes. Ministers have vowed to send millions more NHS patients private in plans to thwart the backlogs which have built-up. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has threatened to name and shame failing hospitals in league tables and sack NHS managers if they fail to make improvements as part of Labour's reforms. Ambulance response times, which are tracked regionally instead of trust-by-trust, are plotted by MailOnline's data journalism team, too. Sir Stephen Powis, national medical director for NHS England, commended the extraordinary level of detail packed inside for readers. He said: 'MailOnline's NHS Tracker is an important tool where patients in England can access data about their local hospital at the touch of a button. 'The NHS has never been busier heading into winter. Staff are working incredibly hard to manage the current pressures with plans already in place to manage extra demand on services and through our new elective care reform plan, we will improve waiting times for patients. 'We continue to work with the government on the 10 year health plan to make the NHS fit for the future. 'We welcome ideas from the public, patients and staff as part of the biggest conversation about the NHS via Change.nhs.uk.' How our NHS data-tracker works All the data for MailOnline's tracker is sourced from NHS England, which publishes monthly performance statistics. Healthcare targets have been sourced from official NHS guidance. We have matched NHS trusts to postcodes based on distance, and display the trusts within a 15-mile radius for outer London and a 3-mile radius for inner London. Private providers and some community-based trusts have been excluded. Enter only the first half of your postcode and look for the drop-down suggestions. When entering your postcode into the search bar, this is ordered in alphabetical order of the trusts found within your area, not necessarily your closest trust. Given the way NHS data is stored, only 'Type 1' attendances, or visits to your typical A&E centre are used for the four-hour wait analysis. For 12-hour waits, all types of A&E are counted, including 'Type 2' or speciality A&E wards. Ambulance response times are recorded by region. We have aligned each individual trust to their regional ambulance service. STATISTICS LAST UPDATED: February 13, 2025 Face mask mandates appear to be making a quiet comeback in hospitals across the US amid growing concerns over what experts are calling a 'quad-emic.' Four viral infections flu, Covid, the cold-like virus RSV and norovirus are rising, reaching around 15million cases and 30,000 deaths so far this winter. In response to the outbreak, Duke Health in North Carolina and Mass General Brigham in Massachusetts both updated their masking and visitor guidelines this week. It means hospitals in at least eight states are requiring or strongly urging mask-wearing indoors, including Wisconsin, California, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey and New York. The move comes amid growing fears about a viral outbreak in China that has reportedly overwhelmed hospitals in northern provinces. Mass General, which treats 2.5million patients, is comprised of 12 hospitals and clinics scattered throughout Massachusetts and for most of its facilities, leaders escalated its respiratory virus activity status to 'high.' Now, clinicians and hospital staff are required to wear masks in patient areas and patients and visitors are 'strongly encouraged' to wear a face mask, though there is no requirement. In North Carolina, Duke Health hospitals and clinics stated: 'Due to increased respiratory illness in our communities, we are updating our visitation restrictions after consultation with our Infectious Disease and Infection Prevention experts.' The Mass General Brigham system in Massachusetts updated its masking and visitor guidelines this week Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. With dozens of locations across the state and surrounding areas, Duke Health is now 'strongly' recommending masking in patient areas, and masking is required in 'select patient care areas based on their medical condition.' Additionally, visitor guidelines have been updated on a unit-by-unit basis, with some restrictions put in place and a requirement for full personal protective equipment for the most vulnerable patients. In other parts of the country, a spokesperson for Wisconsin's Aurora Health Care system which treats 1.2million patients a year confirmed to local outlet WISN12 it will institute a mask mandate for patients and other people in 'congregate areas, like patient rooms' beginning next week. New Jersey's largest hospital system, RWJBarnabas Health which sees 3million patients a year has also reinstated a mask mandate. In guidance posted online, the hospital system said 'all visitors are expected to wear a face mask and 'maintain physical distance.' It added: 'We will offer you a new mask for source control or may ask you to replace your own mask with a hospital-supplied mask.' In San Francisco, anyone working in skilled nursing facilities is required to wear a mask. In Alameda, San Mateo, Contra Costa and Napa counties, as well as the City of Berkeley, healthcare workers and staff in certain care facilities are required to wear masks in patient areas. In San Mateo, the mandate also applies to visitors. In Illinois, the OSF HealthCare network, which has 10 locations in the state, is requiring all employees, patients and visitors to wear masks and temporarily restricted visiting hours and allowances. Data through December 28 Your browser does not support iframes. Additionally, the Rush University healthcare system, which includes two medical centers and one hospital, also started requiring face masks for staff and visitors. In Indiana, Union Health has also asked people to wear face masks and restricted visiting hours, citing the increase in flu, Covid and RSV cases. Patients experiencing respiratory symptoms 'must wear a mask upon presentation to any Union Health facility,' which includes about three dozen locations across Indiana. In New York, State Health Commissioner Dr James McDonald declared last month that influenza is prevalent across the state and required health care workers who have not received this year's flu vaccine to wear masks in certain health care settings. According to the CDC, the level of respiratory illness activity in the US is 'high' and it is 'high' or 'very high' in a majority of states. The virus with the highest level is Covid-19. Flu and RSV are at 'moderate levels.' However, emergency department visits for flu and RSV are 'very high' and increasing, while visits are 'low' but increasing for Covid-19. Cases of the flu and RSV reached new highs this season, with 19 percent and 13 percent of samples testing positive for those viruses in the week ending December 28. About seven percent of tests were positive for Covid. Your browser does not support iframes. The CDC estimates there has been 1.2million visits for RSV, 60,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths between October 1, 2024 and December 14. For Covid, estimates are 4.9million cases, 1.1million visits, 130,000 hospitalizations and 15,000 deaths. And for the flu, estimates are 9.3million cases, 4.2million visits, 140,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths in the same time period. For the week ending December 28 the latest available 1.2 percent of hospital visits were for the Covid, up from less than one percent a month prior. RSV accounted for one percent, up from 0.6 percent a month prior, and flu visits accounted for 5.2 percent of visits a sharp increase from just one percent in the week ending November 30. Hospitalizations are also up for all the respiratory viruses. Hospitalization rates jumped to two percent for Covid and RSV and four percent for flu at the end of December. Deaths edged up slightly, but made up less than one percent of overall death rates. Data shows cases of the norovirus also called stomach flu are at their highest level for this time of year since 2012. State health departments reported 91 outbreaks of norovirus - considered a grouping of two or more cases stemming from a common source - during the week of December 5, up from 69 the previous week. In 2021, there were just two outbreaks during the same week. The current data is not comprehensive, and the number of cases is likely higher than reported. The CDC does not report individual cases because the infection usually resolves on its own within a few days and goes undiagnosed by a doctor and unreported. Just over a dozen states participate in the CDCs national disease surveillance system. Overall, it is estimated norovirus infects around 21million Americans annually and sends around 2million of them to the doctors offices or urgent care. Approximately 465,000 people with the virus go to the emergency department every year and 900 people die. Millions more NHS patients will receive free treatment in private hospitals under Government plans to slash waiting lists. Sir Keir Starmer yesterday pledged to make better use of the private sector so sick Britons can be seen more quickly for a wider range of issues. GPs will be forced to actively tell patients when they can get their scans, tests or operations at a private clinic. And appointments will be booked via an updated NHS App or website, which will tell users their expected waiting times at each NHS and private provider, the distance from their home and their care quality ratings. Patients can then choose between them, with taxpayers footing the bill regardless of the option selected. Patient groups last night welcomed the announcement but critics questioned how the extra appointments will be delivered given the countrys shortage of healthcare staff. The policy is expected to see the number of appointments delivered by the private sector increase by at least a fifth, from 5 million to more than 6 million, each year. It means private providers are likely to pocket an extra 2.5billion a year in government funding taking their annual income from the Department of Health and Social Care to almost 16billion. Sir Keir Starmer pledged yesterday to make better use of the private sector to treat NHS patients for free so people can be seen more quickly for a wider range of issues GPs will be forced to actively tell patients when they can get their scans, tests or operations at a private clinic (file photo) While patient groups welcomed the announcement, critics questioned how the plans would be executed given the shortage of healthcare staff (file photo) If the scheme proves a success, the firms could invest 1billion in opening clinics in underserved areas, allowing for 1.5 million more appointments a year. Patients do already have a right to receive NHS care in the private sector but fewer than a quarter of patients recall being offered it. Some GPs or health chiefs have been reluctant to promote the option, and firms have strict exclusion criteria allowing them to cherrypick the easiest cases. The Prime Minister unveiled his plans during a speech at Epsom Hospital, Surrey, where he outlined how he intends to reform NHS elective care. He acknowledged some on the Left will object to the expanded use of the private sector but insisted he is not interested in putting ideology before patients and is determined to ensure everyone can get access to timely care when they need it. Under the historic new deal between the NHS and the independent sector, women awaiting gynaecological waiting lists and orthopaedics patients will be among those to be offered free treatment in the private sector. In gynaecology, there is currently a backlog of 260,000 women waiting longer than the 18-week target for treatment, while in orthopaedics more than 40 per cent of patients are waiting longer. The independent sector has agreed to review its clinical exclusion criteria to ensure as broad a cohort of patients as possible can be treated in private hospitals. The providers will be paid the same rate as NHS hospitals for the treatments they deliver. Your browser does not support iframes. The independent sector has agreed to review its clinical exclusion criteria to ensure as broad a cohort of patients as possible can be treated in private hospitals (file photo) An estimated 6.34 million people were on NHS waiting lists for 7.54 million treatments at the end of October, figures show. Sir Keir vowed to diagnose and treat 92 per cent of patients within 18 weeks of receiving a referral from a GP by the end of this Parliament up from 35 per cent now and a target that has not been met for almost a decade. The Government hopes to slash waiting times by creating a bigger network of community diagnostic centres, which will provide tests, scans and endoscopies 12 hours a day, seven days a week. GPs will be able to refer patients to these centres without prior consultation with a consultant. Sir Keir said rebuilding the NHS is the cornerstone of rebuilding Britain and no institution is more important to the security of the country. But he stressed it cannot become a national money pit, adding: 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. Deborah Alsina, chief executive of charity Versus Arthritis, said: Were pleased to see todays Elective Recovery Plan for reducing NHS waiting times, a crucial step in helping to ensure people with arthritis can access the treatment they need. Your browser does not support iframes. A larger network of community diagnostic centres will provide tests and scans 24/7 in order to reduce waiting times, the Government has said (file photo) But Dr Tony OSullivan, of campaign group Keep Our NHS Public, said: Private spare capacity relies on NHS staff and funding to resource their expansion. Feeding the parasite undermines the health of the NHS host. Writing in todays Mail, Health Secretary Wes Streeting says the plan will put an end to Dickensian horror stories of people going into debt or launching fundraisers to pay for their operations. He adds: Whether you are the richest person in this country or the poorest, you should be able to get quality healthcare when you need it. That is why we have made a new agreement with the independent sector, the first of its kind for 25 years. Phil Herbert was working on his computer at home in November 2021 when his right arm suddenly stopped responding. I was trying to close a window on the computer but couldnt get my right arm to work the mouse, recalls Phil, 56, an architect from Loughborough. Worried, and with his speech also becoming slurred, Phil called 999 but was told it would be four hours before an ambulance could attend. So he called his son, who in turn contacted Phils ex-wife, who rushed him to hospital. Tests confirmed hed had a stroke. I was paralysed down my right side and lost most of my ability to speak, says Phil. After months of rehabilitation, Phil recovered much of his speech and could walk with a stick but still couldnt move his right arm. More than three years on, he now has hopes of regaining strength in it thanks to a new gadget which clips on to his ear that is currently being trialled to restore movement and mobility in patients arms after a stroke. The 2 million trial, being spearheaded by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, involves stimulating a nerve in the ear with mild electrical pulses generated by a device that can be placed in a pocket. Phil Herbert's right arm suddenly stopped working and his speech became slurred in November 2021 Phil's experienced debilitating weakness in his arm since the stroke, which had no obvious cause After regaining his speech, he now has hopes of regaining strength in it thanks to this new gadget Leads from the device connect to a tiny earpiece that sends a gentle current to the nerve in the ear. Results from previous studies suggest stimulating the nerve at the same time as the patient tries to move the affected arm can restore electrical signals and, in turn, reduce arm weakness. Its thought the device improves the transmission of nerve signals from the brain to the arm, telling it when and how to move. For the trial, patients use the ear tickler for one hour a day, five days a week, for 12 weeks, and the arm needs to be moving while the nerve is being stimulated. The study, which started in November 2023, involves around 240 patients. The doctors leading the clinical trial describe it as very exciting, predicting it could change the lives of thousands of patients who have had strokes. More than 100,000 people each year in the UK have a stroke and about a third are left with permanent arm weakness. Almost 80 per cent of strokes are ischaemic, which means a blood clot blocks blood supply to the brain, causing damage. The remainder are haemorrhagic strokes, where a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the brain. The new device is for ischaemic strokes. Arshad Majid, a professor of neurology at Sheffield University, who is leading the trial, said: Arm weakness after a stroke impacts on all aspects of living and its a significant problem for those who survive a stroke. The 2.5million trial involves nerve in the ear with mild electrical pulses generated by a device that can be placed in a pocket Current treatment involves intensive physiotherapy, but it has limited effect. The idea behind the new trial is that the electrical impulses stimulate a branch of the vagus nerve the largest nerve in the body, which runs from the brain to the abdomen and is involved in controlling a range of functions, from swallowing to heart rate and digestion. Vagus nerve stimulation is already used to treat epileptic seizures, usually through a stimulator that is placed just beneath the collar bone and wired up to the brain.Its success in reducing seizures prompted doctors to investigate whether the same therapy could help restore movement and strength after a stroke. The decision to set up the new UK trial followed a study that showed vagus nerve stimulation worked well using an implanted pulse generator the device, given to 120 patients from the US, Canada and the UK, was activated by waving a wand over the chest. Doctors are now looking to see if they can get the same result without having to surgically place any equipment. Professor Majid said with the ear zapper, a patient feels only a slight tingling sensation. The main advantage is that unlike the earlier trial, its anon-invasive treatment, he said. The patient doesnt need to come into hospital and can do the therapy in their own home. They are given exercises to do and we check in on them every two weeks by video call. Chris Price, a professor of stroke research at Newcastle University, who is not involved in the current trial, says: The clever thing with this study is that its stimulating a branch of the vagus nerve that goes to the ear. If it shows good results, then its an interesting and exciting development for stroke rehabilitation. It isnt about making a paralysed arm come back to life; it is people who have had some recovery improving even more. Using a small piece of technology that is easy to wear and helps patients show improvement is something that we dont currently have. The idea behind the new trial is that the electrical impulses stimulate a branch of the vagus nerve the largest nerve in the body (file photo) Phil spotted details of the ear-stimulator trial on social media and contacted the researchers. Hes experienced debilitating weakness in his arm since the stroke, which had no obvious cause. Initially his daughter Isobel, now 22, looked after him. After six months I could walk without a stick, and with a pronounced limp, and my speech had improved significantly, he says. I could get myself dressed and into the shower but I couldnt use my right arm much. He started the 12-week trial back in January 2024 and is now back at work full-time. In the past six months he has also started playing badminton and he can now lift his right arm above his head. Ive got more movement so I can open and close kitchen cupboards, he says.I still cant use my fingers, so I cant hold a pen or type with my right hand, but Im hoping to be able to use my fingers more thats my goal. Top British virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information about a worrying outbreak of the respiratory infection hMPV, which is reported to be overwhelming its hospitals. The UK authorities 'need more information on the specific strain circulating' in order to accurately assess the threat to the British public, warned virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole. It comes as cases of the infection which features cold-like symptoms rise across the UK, with graphs showing doubling in numbers over the last month. Currently, as many as one in 20 cases of respiratory infections could be due to the infection, which is known as human metapneumovirus (hMPV), according to the latest UK surveillance data. '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,' said Dr Catchpole, who is chief scientific officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO. '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.' He added: 'It is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are arising purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels.' Promisingly, Dr Catchpole noted that while hMPV 'does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential'. Your browser does not support iframes. Speaking to MailOnline, multiple experts urged Britons not to panic, as the vast majority of infections cause 'mild, cold-like symptoms'. However, for those with compromised immune systems very young children, the elderly and those with certain underlying conditions the infection could lead to more serious disease. '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,' warned Jaya Dantas, a professor of international health at Curtin University in Australia. 'We need to use a cautious and measured approach, as we know so much more since the Covid pandemic.' 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 minimised by China. Although British experts have remarked that the scenes in Chinese hospitals appear little different to that of UK healthcare at this time of year. 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 Scientists have urged the public to take precautions to limit the spread of hMPV, as well as the multiple other respiratory viruses known to be circulating. 'We need to get tested, stay home and away from others, wear a mask in public and protect our most vulnerable,' said prof Dantas. Meanwhile professor John Tregoning, an expert in vaccine immunology at Imperial College London added: 'Protecting yourself by being in well-ventilated spaces, covering your mouth when you cough and washing your hands will all help.' The calls for greater transparency from China follow a chorus of similar pleas from international experts. 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.' Meanwhile the US has seen 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 The above CDC graph shows an increase in positive HMPV tests at the end of December 2024 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 hospitalised with hMPV die. Dr Senanayake cautioned that China's increase in hMPV cases is akin to a 'bad flu season' 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 health authorities have 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. Fever, cough, congestion, and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for the disease. Professor Tregoning 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.' 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 recognised 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.' 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 in the virus 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', 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.' Millions of people in the UK have a penicillin allergy label on their medical records and Im one of them. This means that the most effective treatment for a wide range of bacterial infections is not available. You might think this isnt important and that lots of alternative antibiotics are equally effective. But youd be wrong not only are antibiotics in the penicillin family often still the most valuable option, but theyre less likely than alternatives to cause side-effects. So you really dont want to rule them out unless you have a serious allergy. Yet as many as nine in ten people about four million of us who believe theyre allergic to penicillin are not, according to the charity Antibiotic Research UK. In fact, this 90 per cent of us with a penicillin allergy will actually have grown out of a reaction we had in childhood, or had a reaction to penicillin specifically related to having glandular fever (as in my case), or mistook a side-effect or unrelated symptom for an allergy. Josa Keyes had a reaction to penicillin after having glandular fever Indeed, penicillin allergy is often self-diagnosed by people whove had symptoms, such as diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, headache or bloating, while being treated with the medication. This allergy is then added to their medical notes without testing or further questioning. And there it usually stays. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society reports that simply being labelled as allergic to penicillin is associated with a higher mortality rate of an extra six deaths per 1,000 patients in the year following treatment for infection, as the drug saves lives that other medications cant. The problem is, how do we ensure that those who are genuinely allergic keep the warning on their medical notes, while removing it from those who arent? Over the entire population, this de-labelling has the potential to reduce needlessly prolonged hospital stays and hospital-acquired infections, saving the NHS money. When Alexander Fleming, a professor of bacteriology at the University of London, breezed off on holiday in 1928, he had no idea what world-changing event would occur in his lab at St Marys Hospital in Paddington. Back at work on September 3, he glanced at a mouldy Petri dish where hed been growing Staphylococcus bacteria, noticing an unusual clear margin around the fluffy green spot. By chance, scientists in the same lab were studying the effects of moulds on the lung, and a rare strain of Penicillium notatum a fungus had transferred to Flemings dish, where it was obliterating the infection-causing bacteria as fast as it could. Flemings findings saw him awarded the Nobel Prize in 1945, when the new penicillin drugs with their ability to treat previously fatal bacterial infections such as chest infections, syphilis and gonorrhoea became widely available. The penicillin family remains the best treatment for many bacterial infections, although different antibiotic compounds have since been developed. I was 17 when I developed a chronic sore throat after visiting my 13-year-old cousin, who was in bed with glandular fever. Our GP diagnosed tonsillitis and gave me repeat prescriptions for amoxicillin (a form of penicillin). I didnt get better so he gave me more. Still feeling rough, I went to stay with a friend in Norfolk, waking the first morning covered head to toe in itchy raised red bumps. My friends mum, a GP, examined me and had me tested. Glandular fever. Back home, I went straight to bed, waking up very white and puffy, covered in small purple bruises. No one appeared worried by this it was the 1970s and I gradually recovered. Only recently have I understood what happened. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence reports: Maculopapular rashes [small red spots that merge into patches which can look like hives, a symptom of allergy] commonly occur with ampicillin and amoxicillin, but are not usually related to true penicillin allergy. They almost always occur in patients with glandular fever. Broad-spectrum penicillins should not therefore be used for blind treatment [without testing for bacterial infection] of a sore throat. Your GP can contact the Imperial de-labelling clinic if you think your records are wrong In other words, the rash I suffered wasnt a symptom of a penicillin allergy, it was a reaction to the drug linked to the glandular fever virus. There were no further antibiotic-related events in my life until 1992 when, six months pregnant with my second child, I developed a urinary tract infection. As this can lead to early labour, I was given an antibiotic Im not even sure which one. Within hours, I was covered in itchy red blobs that gathered together, particularly uncomfortably over my bump. That was it. I believed I was allergic and the label was applied. It didnt matter that doctors hadnt actually said so. I was convinced and determined never to take penicillin again. Now Im in my 60s, I want to be able to access the best possible treatment should the need arise. So I need to get the penicillin allergy label removed if its unsuitable. In 2022, in an effort to speed up this vital de-labelling, the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology set out its guidelines for penicillin allergy de-labelling services, for non-allergists working in hospitals. Ideally, GPs will refer patients to a de-labelling clinic as they become available, but the UK has the fewest consultant allergists per head of population in the developed world, hence the need to rely on non-specialists, says Dr Sophie Farooque, a consultant allergist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in London. She and her colleagues have recently set up one of the first such clinics. So far, the number of people they have de-labelled is tiny but the future potential is huge. The clinic uses a two-tier approach. First, the pharmacy team works through a checklist, including a patients medical records. For instance, they might have been prescribed amoxicillin without realising it was in the penicillin family and experienced no problems. Other questions will focus on symptoms which led to the initial labelling, such as nausea, type of rash, tummy pains, headache or a strange taste. If the patient is considered low or no risk, they will then be given a dose and observed. Patients about whom there are any doubts are referred to Dr Farooques clinic for further investigation, including skin tests where small quantities of penicillin are injected under the skin to evaluate the reaction. The clinic is held on a day ward, ensuring swift treatment if a patient has an allergic reaction. This is not going to be a quick fix for the millions wrongly labelled as allergic to penicillin although there are future plans for a national allergy strategy, says Dr Farooque. In the meantime, if you have a penicillin allergy label on your notes which you think may be inaccurate, you could ask your GP to contact the Imperial de-labelling clinic, advises Dr Tom Swaine, an infectious diseases specialist at Imperial. Ill ask my GP to refer me as soon as the clinic is fully up and running, just in case I ever develop the kind of infection for which the penicillin family is the best treatment. The surge in the mystery hPMV virus in the UK is mostly affecting young children who are among the most vulnerable to serious complications, official data suggests. The infection has sparked concern over the last week after reports surfaced showing hospitals in China seemingly becoming overwhelmed by an outbreak of hPMV. Now, new figures show intriguing details of the simultaneous rise in the UK which has seen cases double in just a month. Virus monitoring data from The UK Health Security Agency shows that one in 10 children tested for respiratory infections in hospital were positive for human metapneumovirus (hMPV) as of December 23. This is more than double the proportion of very young children that tested positive for hMPV in late November. It comes as the NHS is already buckling under a tidal wave of flu with cases quadrupling in a month. Official data shows some 5,000 beds in the health service were being taken up by flu patients as of the end of the year with the virus forming a 'quademic' of winter viruses heaping pressure on NHS services alongside noroviruses, RSV and Covid. Experts also said they expect 'things to get worse before they get better' given recent cold weather more people have socialised indoors over the Christmas and the New Year period. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. While hMPV mostly causes a mild illness that is similar to the common cold, very young children, alongside the elderly and those weakened immune systems like cancer patients, are at increased risk of severe illness. This includes serious and potentially fatal respiratory complications like pneumonia. Symptoms of an hMPV infection are similar to the common cold or flu, such as a cough, runny or blocked nose, sore throat and fever, with those struck by it usually ill for about five days. hMPV spreads through tiny droplets that are expelled by the infected when they breath, but to a far greater extent when they cough and sneeze. Infection can occur when people close by breath in these droplets or by touching surfaces contaminated with them, like door handles, and then going on to touch their face or mouth. People with hMPV can also spread the virus while suffering no symptoms themselves as they are still contagious before they begin to feel ill. It's for this reason that all Brits are being urged to practise good hand hygiene like regularly and properly washing their hands, stay in well-ventilated spaces and try to avoid others when ill to reduce the potential spread of hMPV. A lack of good hand hygiene, not covering mouths when coughing or sneezing and a habit of putting objects or hands in their mouths means young children run a higher risk of being exposed to respiratory droplets that can spread viruses like hMPV. 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 Playgroups where children mingle and interact can also provide fertile avenues for virus transmission as toddlers often cough or sneeze freely while and touching communal objects. Children and babies are considered more vulnerable to a host of respiratory infections spread by droplets, like hMPV, because their immune systems are still developing. Additionally, as the airways and lungs of very young children are very small, viruses that impede how we breathe can penetrate further, increasing the risk of complications. China's outbreak of hMPV, which has led to concerning footage of packed emergency rooms, has mainly spread amongst children. Professor John Tregoning, an expert in vaccine immunology at Imperial College London, said when hMPV infects children it looks similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common winter bug that 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,' he said. '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. Your browser does not support iframes. Professor Jaya Dantas, an expert in international health at Curtin University in Australia added: '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 in the UK 'is not something that should cause undue concern' and complications in children are rare. Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, said: '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 have multiple reinfections throughout life. 'It is one of the leading viral causes of respiratory infections in children under five-year-olds.' Unlike Covid or the flu, there is no vaccine for hMPV. Treatment primarily involves managing symptoms and supporting a patient as their body fights off the infection. The above are clips from videos claiming to show overwhelmed hospitals in China Dr Conall Watson, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said hMPV levels usually peak in Britain this time of year and data suggest the current spread is in line within expected thresholds. He added: '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.' Health officials in Beijing have downplayed the developments in their hospitals 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 seen 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 levels for the same week in 2021 when the figure was 4.1 per cent. It was, however, below the levels in 2022 and 2023. Some British virus experts have called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information about its hMPV outbreak. The UK authorities 'need more information on the specific strain circulating' in order to accurately assess the threat to the British public, warned virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole. '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,' said Dr Catchpole, who is Chief Scientific Officer at infectious disease testing firm hVIVO. '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.' He added: 'It is unclear just how high the numbers are or if issues are arising purely due to coinciding with high flu and Covid levels.' Promisingly, Dr Catchpole noted that while hMPV 'does mutate and change over time with new strains emerging', it is 'not a virus considered to have pandemic potential'. Three California residents were poisoned by deadly mushrooms that they bought from a food truck. The patients bought the vegetable from a produce van in Salinas, a farming community in central California. The trio, described as young and healthy, ate amanita phalloides, colloquially known as 'death caps' or the silent assassin. They look similar to common edible mushrooms found in grocery stores, including button and cremini mushrooms, but consuming just 30 grams of them is enough to kill. The poisoning occurred on New Years Day. It wasn't until the following day the three individuals became severely ill, with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dr Erica Locke, a physician at the Salinas Valley Health Emergency Department, said: In that phase [of poisoning], people get profoundly dehydrated and can develop some kidney injury. Then after about 24 hours of nausea, vomiting, and that cholera-like diarrhea, people start to feel a little bit better, what's called the senescent period, where they start to recover, and that is exactly what happened to these people. It wasnt until their symptoms started up again that they went to the hospital, which revealed that their livers were in the early stages of liver damage. The death cap mushroom (pictured left and right), responsible for 90 percent of mushroom-related deaths, resembles some edible varieties, and can lead to severe liver and kidney damage Doctors are hopeful that two individuals who remain in treatment will recover and the third, who ate less of the mushrooms, has already recovered. Patients told doctors they had procured the mushrooms from a produce truck parked outside of a grocery store. At the same time, the Salinas Police Department reported that they received conflicting stories from the patients, who also mentioned a hike to Fremont's Peak where police strongly believe they may have foraged the mushrooms themselves. Death caps contain potent toxins that damage the liver and kidneys. The toxins block a crucial enzyme cells need to make proteins, and without producing those proteins, cells die. There is typically a six to 24-hour period during which no symptoms appear despite the toxin already working in the body. After that period, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea increase, leading to dehydration. When the body becomes dehydrated, blood flow to the kidneys and liver decreases, causing damage and potential failure. Dr Locke said: Had they come in during the first 24 hours, we would have hopefully been able to avoid some of the liver toxicity. Mainly, they just need a lot of hydration support, so if we can hydrate them through this and then do some of the things that we know block the toxin from recirculating in the body, we can prevent the liver damage. The patients were transferred to a specialized unit at Stanford Medicine that focuses on liver health and transplantation. Edible varieties common in recipes resemble death caps. For this reason, police and scientists discourage people from foraging for mushrooms on their own The Salinas police turned up no leads on the truck where the three patients purchased the mushrooms, and its possible that other people in the area purchased them as well. Still, a police report said there have been no further cases of illness due to mushroom poisoning in Salinas and concluded there is no threat to the general public. Death caps, responsible for about 90 percent of deaths by mushrooms, are native to Europe but found their way to North America in the 1930s on the roots of imported trees, eventually becoming an invasive species. They grow in many parts of the US, including California, Idaho, and Texas, as well as British Columbia in Canada. Spotting these unassuming mushrooms can be difficult. They can grow six inches tall with a domed cap, a yellow/green or a brownish tinge, and an off-white stem. They give off no smells or obvious giveaways. Your browser does not support iframes. Scientists generally discourage people from setting off on their own to forage for mushrooms because they are so easily mistaken for edible varieties. The odds of dying after eating just a minute amount of the domed cap range from 25 to 50 percent. Speedy medical treatment is crucial to avoid lasting damage to the organs. Because such a small portion of the mushroom can prove fatal, death caps have been used as an invisible murder weapon dating back to the ancient Romans. Historical accounts suggest that the Roman Emperor Claudius was poisoned by his wife, who allegedly mixed the deadly fungi with Claudius favorite Caesars mushrooms, killing him around AD 54. Another ruler, Charles VI of Austria, died in 1740 after eating what he did not know were poisonous mushrooms. French philosopher Voltaire wrote in his memoirs that this plate of champignons changed the destiny of Europe. In a global battle of the bulge, the US does not crack the top 10 or even the top 60 when it comes to penis size, according to new rankings. The average penis length when erect in the US is around five-and-a-half inches, slightly higher than the global average, according to Data Pandas, an online library of datasets pertaining to health, crime, education, demographics, and the economy. Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo earned the top spots for penile length, with an average of 7.07 in and 7.05 in, respectively. Ecuador was third with an average of 6.93 in. Thailand, North Korea, and Cambodia took the bottom three spots at 3.72 in, 3.78 in, and 3.88 in, respectively. The measurements were derived from self-reporting, opening the possibility that the men surveyed exaggerated the sizes of their members. The global rankings ranked the US at number 68, with an average length at erection of 5.57 in. Many of America's peers ranked higher: Australia with an average of 6.18 in, France with 5.71 in, and the UK with 5.63 in. Canada ranked lower than the US, though, with an average of 5.48 in. The countries with the largest reported penis sizes are scattered across the continents, including South America, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. After Ecuador was the Republic of the Congo (the smaller country neighboring the DRC) and Ghana have average lengths of approximately 6.83 inches and 6.81 inches, respectively. Nigeria rounded out the top five (6.69 in) followed by Venezuela (6.66 in), Lebanon (6.62 in), Colombia (6.59 in), and Cameroon (6.55 in). The countries reporting the smallest sizes tend to be located in Southeast or East Asia, home to a wide range of cultural and ethnic groups. On the other end of the spectrum, Thailand ranked first with an average erect penis length of approximately 3.71 inches, followed by North Korea at 3.78 inches. Data Pandas based its ranking on a 2014 report in the journal BJU International Sexual Medicine. Researchers performed a sweeping review of existing studies from around the world that measured penis size by health professionals in samples of 50 people or more. By relying on existing research, the authors of the report could glean information from studies that investigated penis size metrics in countries they would not otherwise have access to, like North Korea. Cambodia's average length is about 3.88 inches, Nepal's is around 3.93 inches, Myanmar's is 3.97 inches, and Laos's is 4.00 inches. Vietnam's average is approximately 4 inches as well, while Sri Lanka's average is around 4.02 inches. South Korea averages about 4.26 inches, and the Philippines ranks at approximately 4.28 inches. The quip size matters reflects mens attitudes rather than womens. In addition to length, men tend to care about girth, or circumference of the penis, and volume, which refers to the overall three-dimensional size. In Data Panda's breakdown, the top five spots were occupied by European countries, with the exception of Ecuador in third place. France leads with an average girth of 5.37 in around, followed closely by the Netherlands at 5.33 in. Ecuador takes third place with an average girth of 5.29 in. Belgium and Denmark share similar measurements, at 5.22 in each, securing the fourth and fifth positions. Australia, which was ranked 20th for length, had the world's sixth-highest average girth followed by Norway at 5.18 inches and Sudan at 5.15 in. A 2009 study revealed that seventy-nine percent of men wished their penises were bigger, and nearly forty-eight percent of those who wanted a larger size admitted to lying about their actual size Romania ranked lowest when it came to girth at an average of 4.04 in. Bhutan was a close second from the bottom at 4.06 in, followed by Bangladesh at 4.13 in and Mongolia at 4.18 in. While the lowest rankings for length were dominated by Asian countries, the lower rankings for girth span Asian countries as well as some countries in Eastern Europe. Some of the countries near the top of the ranking for length when erect ranked just as well for overall volume, which takes into consideration length and girth together. Ecuador takes the lead with an average volume of 15.43 in (cubic inches), followed by Sudan at 14.91 in and the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 14.83 in. Venezuela ranks fourth with an average of 13.96 in, while the Netherlands is close behind at 13.91 in. Ghana secures the sixth spot with 13.75 in, and Colombia rounds out the list at 13.71 in. There are various metrics used to measure penis size, but length is often considered the most important, likely because length is the most visible and immediately noticeable measurement. A 2002 study involving 375 women reported that only 21 percent of them considered penis length to be important, and only one percent said it was very important. A much larger share of men are hung up on size. A 2009 report found that 79 percent of men wished their penises were larger. And about 48 percent of men who wanted a larger penis lied about their size. Your browser does not support iframes. Average penis length may have risen over the past few decades. American and Italian researchers assessed data from 75 different studies on penis size published between 1942 and 2021, involving over 55,000 men. They reported in February 2023 that erect penis length increased significantly over time 24 percent over 29 years. Changes over time could be linked to the trend of boys hitting puberty at increasingly younger ages. Puberty triggers a surge in hormones, especially testosterone, which directly impacts the growth of various body parts, including the genitals. Earlier puberty means that the body is exposed to these hormones longer, potentially leading to a longer penis size in adulthood. Amazon is paying an astonishing $40million to license Brett Ratner's documentary about Melania Trump, according to a new report. The documentary, directed by Ratner, was announced Sunday and is set for release in the second half of 2025 during her husband's presidency. Melania, 54, is the production's executive producer, and Jeff Bezos's film and television studio is reportedly shelling out the big bucks for licensing rights. Following the announcement, sources familiar with the matter revealed the amount to Puck, saying the deal also includes a follow-up docuseries. It's unclear what Melania is being paid personally for the project. The film and docuseries will appear on Prime Video, with the film getting some time in theaters as well, the insiders said. The docuseries will reportedly include two or three episodes, with Melania heavily involved. The documentary began filming last month and will continue during Trump's presidency. Disney and Paramount reportedly lost out on the streaming rights after a bidding war with Amazon, which is owned by the second-richest man in the world. Neither Netflix nor Apple took part, the sources said. Amazon is paying an astonishing $40million to license Brett Ratner's documentary about Melania Trump , according to a new report The documentary will be directed by Rush Hour's Brett Ratner, and began filming back in December Jeff Bezos 's film and television studio reportedly beat out Disney and Paramount for streaming rights 'We are excited to share this truly unique story with our millions of customers around the world,' an Amazon spokesperson added of the production. More details will be shared later on. The documentary will offer viewers an 'unprecedented behind-the-scenes look' at Melania's life, which began in 1970s Slovenia. Then known as Melanija Knavs, she began working as a fashion model at the age of 16. She changed the spelling of her name to Melania Knauss as she sought more work throughout Europe, before relocating to the US in 1996. There she worked as a model in Manhattan, then the stomping grounds of the future president. The pair met in 1998 before marrying in 2005, after which she gave Trump his fifth and final child, Barron, in 2006. She published a memoir, Melania, just a few months ago, as media companies across the country continue to try to capitalize on her husband's upcoming presidency. It has been at the top of the New York Times' best-seller list since its release in early October, before her husband's big win over Kamala Harris. The high-priced partnership comes as media companies continue to scramble to capitalize on Donald Trump's upcoming presidency 'We are excited to share this truly unique story with our millions of customers around the world,' an Amazon spokesperson added of the production. More details will be shared later on Since then, media companies ranging from MSNBC to The Walt Disney Corporation have attempted to kiss the president-elect's ring. Before the election, Bezos broke tradition by blocking The Washington Posts planned endorsement of Harris in late October. The move led to more than 250,000 readers immediately canceling their subscriptions, after which Bezos penned an op-ed defending the decision.. Similar actions were seen Meta's Mark Zuckerberg, who notably refused to endorse Trump, Harris and Joe Biden before the election. Asked about the matter over the summer, he instead praised Trump for surviving his then recent assassination attempt. Since Trump's win, Zuckerberg - who has been accused by the president-elect of plotting against him in the 2020 election - has been in the midst of acquiescing to years of GOP gripes over former policies. This morning, in a five minute video message shared to his personal Facebook profile, he admitted Meta and Facebook censored conservative opinions. The situation was recently satirized by a Washington Post cartoonist, Ann Telnaes, with a sketch showing a group of media executives bowing before Trump while offering him bags of money. Melania, who was born in what is today Slovenia in 1970, published a memoir, eponymously titled Melania, just a few months ago Bezos is seen with Lauren Sanchez at Trump's Mar-a-Lago mansion back in December, where they enjoyed a dinner Present in the cartoon was Post owner Bezos and Mickey Mouse to represent Disney, which days ago reached a settlement in a defamation case filed by the president-elect against ABC News, after anchor George Stephanopoulos erroneously said on the air that Trump had been found 'liable for rape' in a New York civil trial. The Disney-owned outlet afterwards faced accusations of caving to the conservative. Melania is capitalizing on the return well, last month releasing a line of Christmas ornaments called 'Merry Christmas, America!' that feature MAGA-inspired designs like a golden star with 'USA' in the middle and a golden version of Lady Liberty. The golden star is listed for $90 per ornament and the others are $75 a piece - with the release serving as a callback to her days in the White House, when she personally decorated its halls for Christmas. The move is one of many business-minded maneuvers recently made by the first lady, who will legally be able to continue her sales career after her husband's inauguration. Following the rollout, Trump touted the project as very 'special, revealing that a portion of the proceeds are used for her charitable efforts. Melania, meanwhile, has also hinted at a potential restart of her Be Best program, which was introduced in 2018 and had focused on well-being for youth and advocated against cyberbullying and opioid abuse. The have also been reports suggesting she may be a part-time first lady, splitting her time between the White House and Trumps' private residences in New York while her son Barron is in college. Melania is returning to Washington, D.C. this month after her husband won reelection in November. Pictured: The couple walk the route during their first inaugural parade on January 20, 2017 The former first lady is seen with a nanny during her childhood in Slovenia, then part of Yugoslavia She has stayed away from the White House thus far, but will return in a matter of days. Melania has released few details on what she plans for her second tenure in the unpaid position, as she continues her business ventures. Just before Trump was elected insiders told News Nation that Melania's October autobiography did not see her paid an advance, leaving her to collect only royalties. Melania has unveiled a necklace and non-fungible token (NFT) collection on the Solana blockchain - another business venture. Promoting the project, called Her Love & Gratitude, at the time, she revealed how each digital creation features a gold flower pendant that can be engraved with up to 12 characters. It retails for $245. 'Being a mother is one of the most important roles in life. For this Mother's Day, I have designed the Her Love & Gratitude necklace to express immense gratitude and honor all mothers,' she said in the statement. It was not the first NFT-related release for the former model, who also unveiled a set of creations called the Head of State Collection and a 1776 Collection for the Fourth of July. Neither of the projects performed, however, with The Head of State Collection originally selling for over $180,000 but since plummeting in cost, President-elect Donald Trump walks onto the floor of the New York Stock Exchange with his wife Melania, after being named TIME's 'Person of the Year' Her husband, also involved in NFTs, has fared much better, released NFTs bearing his name, image and likeness for months, including Trump Digital Trading Cards. The collection features 45,000 NFTs that were initially sold for $99 each. Today they are worth more than five times that. Moreover, Akrham intelligence - a cryptocurrency company - recently discovered some of the contents of Trump's crypto wallet, which has received over 1,800 Ethereum (ETH). The portfolio is worth several million dollars. The president-elect, in an interview with Time magazine for being its Person of the Year, confirmed the first lady is set to return to the White House with him this month after spending the past several weeks in New York, where their son Barron attends New York University. He pointed to how active she was in the final weeks of his presidential campaign. 'She was, she was very, she actually became very active towards the end, as you saw with interviews. And she does - she does them well. People really watch. She's very beloved by the people, Melania,' Trump noted. Melania was seen promoting her memoir in those interviews. Within a week of her husband's win, she unveiled a digital photo collection showcasing her 'dynamic life,' which she is currently selling for $195-a-pop. Melania, seen on January 20, 2017 alongside her husband and son Barron, has been involved in several moneymaking ventures as of late. Her spouse is set to retake the oath of office on Monday, January 20, 2024, which is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day 'On the Move is an exclusive collection of 16 digital images,' the former and future first ladys office said November 12 in an announcement. The snapshots, she said, show her 'in various settings from her office, on the campaign trail, and at her home... offer[ing] a poignant glimpse into [her] fast-moving life.' They are being sold through her personal website, with black-and-white image promoting the digital collection showing the former model holding a pair of sunglasses while standing directly in front of a plane. 'I am pleased to share my journey - through photographs - with fans and collectors,' she wrote in her statement. CNN's newly minted White House Correspondent, Kaitlan Collins, urged viewers to heed the wide-ranging statements made by Donald Trump at a press conference Tuesday. The president-elect made a series of promises and declarations during the event, including plans to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the 'Gulf of America.' He also refused to rule out using military force to take control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. 'It's not something that should be treated with bluster,' Collins, 32, told her fellow panelists on CNN's Inside Politics. 'I would treat everything he said there quite seriously,' she added. 'I mean, moments after he said he wanted to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, Marjorie Taylor Greene is saying that she's going to advocate for that.' Some of Trump's other remarks included the president claiming that members of the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah may have been among those who stormed the US Capitol on January 6. He also laid out his vision for the world, took aim at Canada and tore into President Joe Biden's climate agenda. CNN 's newly minted White House Correspondent, Kaitlan Collins , urged viewers to heed the wide-ranging statements made by Donald Trump at a press conference Tuesday The president-elect made a series of promises and declarations during the Tuesday event, including plans to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the 'Gulf of America.' '[This] is not going to be the same Washington that we are encountering in 13 days from now when Trump takes office,' Collins added. 'But I do want to say one of the biggest things that stood out to me from that press conference - from moments when Trump got out there before he even started taking questions - is the level of anger,' she continued, paving the way for a comment from fellow panelist Dana Bash. 'He's really agitated,' the 53-year-old said, sparking some conjecture from Collins. 'Well, we know why,' she explained. 'He made it quite clear... And it's two things. 'It's his legal issues overall, but it's the sentencing that he is facing on Friday,' she insisted, pointing out how the president-elect's nearly concluded hush money case will proceed as planned despite attempts from his legal team to stall it. 'Judge [Juan] Merchan has denied efforts to delay it,' Collins said, adding that Trump's attorneys 'are still working to do so.' The second thing she said was incensing the soon-to-be president was the just-blocked report from DOJ Special Counsel Smith, which Trump's lawyers on Tuesday successfully stopped from being published. The conversation occurred on Inside Politics, after Trump had concluded the largely impromptu speech. Also at the desk was Chief National Correspondent John King, David Chalian, the station's Washington bureau chief, and host Dana Bash 'It's this report by Jack Smith that we are told is imminent and is going to come out,' she said, shortly before it fully emerged that Judge Aileen M. Cannon, a Trump appointee, temporarily barred the DOG from releasing Smiths account of his investigation. Under the impression the attempt was still under the air, the progressive commentator who clashed with Trump during a town hall televised by CNN this year said: 'We'll see if it's successful. 'But his level of anger over that is unmistakable,' she went on, before asserting, 'He has not been this angry since he won the election.' Bash then gave the floor to King, who - when asked to provide an overarching characterization of Trump's comments - framed Trump as being dissatisfied by design. 'It is remarkable,' said the 61-year-old, who previously anchored the program began. 'Somebody who is two weeks from resuming the presidency of the United States who, whether you voted for him or not, whether you like him or not, just engineered a remarkable historical political comeback, is so whiny and so full of grievances. 'Now, that is Donald Trump's trademark,' he went on. 'That has been his trademark since he came down that escalator. 'He used his grievance to keep his people together, to keep his base together, and to keep his team loyal.' King agreed with Collins that Trump had appeared 'angry' leading Chalian to state Trump's comments were likely to stir up sentiment that the outgoing administration was 'purposely making the transition difficult'. King sarcastically paraphrased: 'They're still out to get him' King went on to agree with Collins that Trump had appeared 'angry', while conceding that 'Joe Biden is using his executive powers on his way out to do things that [Trump] fundamentally disagrees with'. 'Weclome to American politics,' the correspondent declared. Responding to Trump's assertion Tuesday that he was 'inheriting a mess', King claimed: 'He's inheriting the strongest economy in the world.' 'It has troubles, it has potholes, it has issues, but it is the strongest economy in the world. Panelist David Chalian, 51, also agreed, saying the president's comments were likely to stir up sentiment that the outgoing administration was 'purposely making the transition difficult.' Investment trusts have a long and occasionally chequered history. The very best such as the Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust (SMIT) and the Rothschild Investment Trust (RIT) have, down the decades, done a brilliant job for retail investors. But they are often traded at large discounts to their underlying assets. These discounts reflect dissonance with shares on the London Stock Exchange in general, inconsistent performance and a view that they are often run for the benefit of insiders, fund management groups and executives, rather than investors. One of my first encounters with the investment trust industry, as a young financial journalist, dates back half a century to the implosion of the investment empire run by a former lord mayor of London Sir Denys Lowson. An investigation by The Investors Chronicle established that Lowsons family of investment trusts amounted to no more than a grand Ponzi scheme in which several trusts were invested in each other and the underlying assets all but non-existent. Raid: American hedge fund Saba Capital, run by Wall Street activist Boaz Weinstein, is targeting seven quoted investment trusts The stables were cleaned long ago, and high governance standards generally prevail at the seven quoted investment trusts being targeted by the American hedge fund Saba Capital. Saba is run by Wall Street activist Boaz Weinstein, who has acquired big strategic stakes. Adopting tactics common in the US, Weinstein is requestioning a series of shareholder meetings with the goal of ousting existing management, replacing it with its own nominees and taking on the management role and fees that go with it. There are several precedents for such incursions. New York-based Edward Bramson, through his Sherborne vehicle, took control of Foreign & Colonial, the nations oldest investment trust, in 2011. He went onto dismantle Electra in 2014. That was something of a tragedy for UK plc as the trust closely was invested in cutting edge UK technologies. A year later Elliott Advisors successfully boarded and conquered Alliance Trust. Elliott activism was helpful to investors in SMIT when it fell in with a share buyback, which helped to shrink the discount. My conversations with Karen Brade, chairman of 149million Keystone Positive Change, a trust focused on sustainable technologies across the globe, suggest that it is tricky to deal with Saba. The trust moved to satisfy Sabas demand for a cash exit, but it made no difference, and attacks continued. In an uncompromising response, Brade says she is appalled by the way in which Saba is trampling over governance and retail investors. She and other trust bosses fear that retail investors will fail to exercise their voting rights, leaving Saba to plunder investment legacies. There has been a tendency among fund managers to run investment trusts as fiefdoms. Boards are drawn from a narrow range of directors who are known quantities. Years ago, I was interviewed to become a non-executive at a well-established trust. Despite making a pledge to recuse myself from any discussion of the trust involved on these pages, it was decided, after due diligence, that it wasnt a good idea. Later, I was informed by my proposer that some of my views (such as those against foreign takeovers) did not fit. One can understand why retail investors might be nervous about investment trusts. When disgraced fund manager Neil Woodford launched his Patient Capital Trust in June 2018 retail investors who took a long view rushed at the chance of being in on the ground floor of a trust buying into new pharma, biotech, fintech and other cutting-edge activities. When the value of Woodfords flagship Equity Income Fund collapsed, he used Patient Capital as a dumping ground for illiquid holdings. The trust was rescued by Schroders and renamed UK Public Private Trust. Abysmal performance continues. The shares stand at 20p against a launch price of 1 and Schroders reportedly is preparing to liquidate. Some trusts among the 3.4billion Saba seven have outperformed the market and sought to fix problems after receiving Sabas attention. All the trusts concerned need to look at their board structure, cost management and performance. Weinsteins attempt to insert the same ticket of directors on the boards of the seven trusts and displace existing managers is morally wrong, incestuous and should be unacceptable to regulators. Institutional and retail investors must kill the assault. 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. In April 2024, EDF Energy said I owed it 8,000 just for my gas. It promised to correct the error, but another 8,000 bill arrived. In August an adviser agreed something was wrong. I sent the unit details but seven weeks later I was told I owed 7,000. EDF has also not credited payments I have made in all this time. F. C., Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffs. Sally Hamilton replies: Energy bills are hard enough for households as we head deeper into winter and 10 million pensioners are denied the winter fuel allowance. But what makes it worse is the pain countless customers face to ensure their bills are correct. I receive scores of emails and letters from readers struggling to get energy bill blunders put right, and this week I've decided to expose a snapshot of what I see. What can you do if you are sent a crazy bill? Our consumer champion reveals all Let's look at F. C.'s case first. You tried to assist EDF by diligently collecting details of gas and electricity units you'd used over the two years since moving into your new home and calculated that the total for both gas and electricity should have been nearer 5,953. Over the period, you had also paid the company 6,282 for both. You figured EDF owed you money rather than the other way around. I urged EDF to turn up the dial on your complaint. A few days later it established what had caused the inflated 8,000, then 7,000, bill. Last April, it belatedly got your meter correctly 'commissioned' that is, assigned to EDF under your address and name when you moved in but its mistake was to then take the readings as if starting from zero, ignoring the previous owner's usage with another provider. EDF has now corrected the initial reading, rebilled your account, processed a refund and credited 100 as a goodwill gesture. A spokesman says: 'We're sorry for our mistake and that it wasn't resolved sooner.' Elsewhere, K. C., from Dorking in Surrey, was also embroiled in a battle with EDF. She was told in September that her electricity account was 5,154 in credit. It is a customer's right to have a credit reimbursed on request. When she chased this up, customer services blamed the size of the sum involved for the delay in issuing the money. Later she was told the refund was being processed, but still it didn't arrive. When I intervened, EDF sent an email which explained she wasn't due a refund after all. It turned out her meter was broken, and the readings did not reflect her actual usage, leading to the phantom credit. EDF then tried to persuade her to have a smart meter installed the kind that sends readings automatically to the provider but she declined as she feared they were unreliable. I asked EDF whether it would let her have a standard model instead. Suppliers are reluctant to replace these 'legacy' meters when they stop working as they are under government pressure to roll out smart meters to most customers by the end of 2025. But in K.C.'s case it said it would make an exception. 13,000 energy bill demand over mistaken identity Meanwhile, in London, reader K. V., explained how he had moved into a two-bedroom rented flat in April 2023 after separating from his wife. He lives alone, but his two children often stay over. Since then, his annual Eon Next electricity bill has been about 780. But in October 2024, to his horror, he was sent a 13,000 bill by British Gas Lite. A mistake or fraud, he assumed, but he could not convince British Gas Lite via its chatbot or emails, even though he provided evidence he wasn't a customer, and he continued to be hounded for the debt. On K. V.'s request, his landlord disclosed his tenancy agreement to the supplier, which revealed the account in question was in the name of a food firm. Yet British Gas Lite still held our reader liable. He feared it would mean him losing his home and risking access to his kids. When I asked British Gas to get to the bottom of this it took only a few days to figure out the error. Two properties are listed with the same address as his on the Land Registry seemingly because his landlord split the property in two but never updated the register. K. V. received a bill that should have gone to the other tenant a business. British Gas Lite only offers tariffs to businesses, so this should have flagged up the problem for British Gas. The firm said it would follow this up with the landlord and apologised to K. V. for not sorting it sooner. Up in Blackburn, Lancashire, a vulnerable customer was being chased by Eon Next for 600. A. M. wrote to me about her disabled 42-year-old son who, until February 2022, was a tenant in a supported living property like a care home but where individuals have their own unit or flat and pay their own bills. When the tenancy ended and he went to live with his family, A. M. notified all utilities at the time and paid his final bills. Despite this, a 600 demand was later generated to cover February to October 2022 the period between her son leaving and the overall property finally being closed as a supported living operation. As the last named tenant, her son had been chased for the bill a year ago, but on his mum's intervention the debt collectors accepted he wasn't responsible. However, a year on, the bill reared its head again and Eon set the hounds on her son anew. Eon failed to respond to her communications and evidence sent via recorded delivery. She told me the stress was making her ill. I asked Eon to investigate this, and it confirmed the account had been incorrectly opened in her son's name after his tenancy had ended. This, it said, was due to the management of the accommodation he left informing Eon the lease for the property would be terminated in October 2022 correct for the whole property, but not for A. M.'s son's tenancy. Eon has now wiped the bill and offered 100 as an apology for the upset caused. A. M. was mightily relieved but is still seething at Eon being such a mumpsimus (someone who stubbornly sticks to their guns despite being incorrect). Sadly, mumpsimuses are widespread in the energy sector and beyond, and I am sure to be standing up to more of them in 2025. SCAM WATCH Shoppers trying to bag a January bargain should beware a scam email impersonating beauty retailer Boots. Tricksters congratulate victims for winning a YSL advent calendar. The email states you have been 'selected as a winner' and the gift is to 'show our appreciation'. The email asks victims to click on a link to claim the reward. Boots says it is aware of the scam. It advises customers not to click on any links and to delete the email. First, forward the email to report@phishing.gov.uk to report it. Straight to the point: Your questions answered I have not been able to get online for 12 days and it's difficult to speak with a human at my provider TalkTalk. It blames another telecoms provider for the outage but that company says it's TalkTalk's problem. I'm going around in circles. B .J., Bournemouth, Hants. TalkTalk apologises and says the connection has been restored. You've been given 88 credit and half-price broadband for six months. My husband died 12 years ago and in January last year I received a letter from a pension firm stating I may be entitled to his pension from a job in the 1980s. I sent the documents but I still haven't heard anything from the company, which has since been acquired by another pensions firm. Why is it taking so long? S. O., Wigan, Lancs. The firm apologises for the delay and you have now received the 2,000 payout. I bought Uggs from eBay in two sizes with a view to returning one. They were shipped from Ireland but the return address is in China. One pair has been confirmed as counterfeit. I was told to send them back by eBay before it can look into my case but I can't, as it will cost 50 and I don't have all of the seller's details. R. G., via email. eBay apologises and says that you can file for a return under its 'item not as described' policy. City investment trust bosses have hit back against a US hedge funds attempt to shake up their boards and replace their fund managers. Saba Capital, run by activist investor Boaz Weinstein, has called investor meetings at seven investment trusts to replace their directors with himself and his allies. However the bosses of Keystone Positive Change, one of the targeted trusts, are fighting back, saying they are appalled by the move. Encouraging investors to vote against the plans, Keystone chairman Karen Brade said Saba was acting opportunistically and trying to seize control of the board without a controlling shareholding, to pursue its own agenda. Power move: Saba Capital, run by Boaz Weinstein (pictured with wife Tali), has called investor meetings at seven investment trusts to replace their directors with himself and his allies She added: We believe Sabas plan lacks transparency, would flagrantly disregard good governance, and may introduce substantially inflated fees. Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust, another of Weinsteins targets, also attacked the US activist, accusing his firm of trying to subvert the firms performance. Chairman Tom Burnet said: Their [Sabas] proposals lack detail and if implemented, could destroy the boards independence, radically alter the investment strategy of the company and prove highly disruptive to shareholder value. Meanwhile, Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust chairman Jonathan Simpson-Dent said Saba was engaged in a backdoor attempt to seize control of the trust. Other targeted trusts include CQS Natural Resources Growth and Income, The European Smaller Companies Trust, Henderson Opportunities and Herald Investment Trust. I have filed a tax return in the past but I took HMRC's online survey which said I didn't need to do one for last year. HMRC was putting out public announcements at the time, saying please don't phone us just fill in an online form if you no longer need to do a tax return, so I did that last Autumn. The automated email I got in response said: 'If your request is successful we will confirm in writing. If your request is not successful we will write and explain the reason why or ask for further information.' However, I heard nothing more so I sent a registered letter to HMRC at the end of last year, giving the evidence I'd tried to notify them and saying I didn't intend to file a return unless they got back to me asap. I've still heard nothing, and now I don't know what to do. Will I be fined 100 even though I've done everything I can think of to sort this - except phone HMRC, which they tell us not to do! If I get fined and have to challenge it would I be successful? I'm worried that if it happened and I needed to get an accountant involved to fight it for me that would cost a lot of money. Hefty fine: If you fail to file a tax return when you should, HMRC can slap you with a 100 fine Harvey Dorset, of This is Money, replies: Most of us will be familiar on difficulties people face when contacting HMRC regarding tax. The system is plagued by confusing web pages and busy phones lines not to mention tax calculations that many struggle to make head or tail of. Last year, This is Money reported more than two thirds of accountants believe HMRC's poor service is damaging small businesses, with the Government department having cut its customer service workforce from 25,000 to 19,500 over five years. This came after HMRC announced last March that it would close its self-assessment helpline from April to September and only deal with priority calls once it reopened, shifting all other queries to its online chatbots. Given the uproar this caused, the department rolled back on its decision a day later stating: 'The pace of this change needs to match the public appetite for managing their tax affairs online.' HMRC is stretched and the fewer calls it receives the better. But it's frustrating that you've gone above and beyond to find out your tax return status... and the looming fear of fighting a potential fine. This is Money spoke to HMRC to see if they can shed light on what you should do to ensure you get the information you need. Heather Rogers, the founder and owner of Aston Accountancy and This is Money's resident tax expert, also gives her advice below on what you should do if your queries continue to go unanswered. A spokesman for HMRC told This is Money: You can check your Personal Tax Account (PTA), which will show the date you submitted the application to cease self assessment. The status will display the stage your request is at. At the point that HMRC actions your request, the status message will show as completed and remains on your account for two years. We would write you a letter to confirm that the self assessment record is closed, or if we need more details from you. If you have not received a letter and it has been more than three weeks since you submitted the online form, then customers should check their PTA before contacting us by webchat self assessment. Customers can access their PTA using their HMRC online account or the HMRC app. Heather Rogers replies: HMRC try to push taxpayers to their online services as though they are the solution to all tax issues, which unfortunately they are not. If a review by a member of staff is required on their application, then until that happens, the taxpayer is no further forward. As you have written and also received no response, you can call them. You can also complain (you can do this online as well). If you don't get satisfaction at HMRC you can go to the Adjudicator. If you do receive a penalty, then you have clear grounds to appeal. If you don't receive a response to your appeal, just go direct to the Adjudicator. For further details, you can check my guide on what to do in a dispute with the taxman go to the section called 'What about when HMRC messes up?' - Have a question about a tax return? Get in touch: editor@thisismoney.co.uk The North Vietnamese officials were gleeful as they presided over the propaganda-heavy release of three US servicemen in August 1969. The POWS had been issued pre-prepared speeches by their captors, instructed to lie about their treatment in Hanoi as the Communists sought to curry international favor. Among the trio was Doug Hegdahl, an emaciated 22-year-old who had found himself at the Hanoi Hilton after falling off his warship near Vietnam. This unlikely story was not the only distinguishing factor setting him apart from his fellow American POWs. He was also the youngest and lowest-ranking - an apprentice seaman who had enlisted just six months before being imprisoned alongside shot-down fighter pilots and graduates of the United States top military academies. But most impressive of all was that, unbeknown to his captors, he was in possession of critical intelligence that would go on to prove invaluable to the US government. Despite the high stakes, as the ceremony wound down, Hegdahl sauntered over to the spot where he had seen one of the most authoritative prison officers set down his beloved cigarette holder - which all prisoners knew he treasured. Without being seen, the brazen young sailor swiped it off the desk, pocketed it and left the country the following day. Author Marc Leepson, who has now documented Hegdahl's incredible story in a new book: The Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW's Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton, tells DailyMail.com: 'I just thought that was almost like the perfect thing to do as your parting act of leaving the Hanoi Hilton. 'If he had done that during captivity and gotten caught, there would have been hell to pay I mean torture. So he saw his chance, he got it and he got out of there. Doug Hegdahl, born in South Dakota in 1946, had never seen the ocean when he joined the Navy at age 20, just months after graduating from high school. A few months after that, he fell from the decks of the USS Canberra in the Gulf of Tonkin, off the coast of Vietnam Hegdahl spent nearly a year and a half as a prisoner of war but pretended to be stupid to his North Vietnamese captors - who were completely unaware that he was memorizing key intel such as prison addresses and POW names The theft was Hegdahl's latest act of defiance and subterfuge in the years-long campaign he had waged against the North Vietnamese. After being discovered in the Gulf of Tonkin by fishermen who handed him over to the Communists, the South Dakota native had posed as a complete, unteachable fool. He duped his captors so successfully they discounted him, allowing him to memorize intelligence that would prove invaluable to the US government upon his release. Indeed, Hegdahl memorized the names of 254 prisoners, including dozens who had been previously classified as missing in action which most likely meant dead. What Doug did taking this really risky, daring gamble by buffaloing the North Vietnamese it resulted in the fact that the Pentagon was able to reclassify 63 Americans whod been listed as missing in action to prisoner of war, meaning that they were alive, and they notified their families right away, says Leepson. That might be an unprecedented act in warfare. It was an especially astonishing feat given that Hegdahl, who had never seen the ocean before joining the Navy, had graduated from high school in South Dakota not even a year before his capture. It had taken him more than the usual four years to complete his secondary education, and Doug graduated at 19 in the spring of 1966. He enlisted in the Navy that fall, reported to the USS Canberra in the Philippines in February 1967, and two months later somehow ended up overboard. The warship had been firing from the water at targets within Vietnam before dawn on April 6, 1967; Hegdahl only remembers hauling his 6-foot, 225-pound frame from his bunk and going to the deck to watch the attack without his glasses. 'I cant tell you how I fell from my ship,' Doug said after his release. 'All I know is, I walked up on the deck. It was dark and they were firing, and the next thing I recall I was in the water.' He treaded water for hours before he was fished from the sea and eventually handed over to the Communists. Even they found it hard to believe the apprentice seaman had simply fallen from his ship. I had probably the most embarrassing capture in the entire Vietnam War,' Doug admitted in a 1997 interview. 'I found that my defense posture was just to play dumb. Lets face it, when you fall off your boat, you have a lot to work with.' Hegdahl was an apprentice seaman when he fell from his warship in April 1967; he's always maintained that he's unsure how he ended up overboard and last remembers being on the deck - without his eyeglasses - as the ship's guns were firing at targets in Vietnam Following his release, Hegdahl provided US authorities with the names of more than 250 POWs, including 63 service members who were reclassified from 'missing in action' - which frequently meant 'killed.' The sailor's intel brought solace to the friends and families of dozens of servicemen Hegdahls strategy turned out to be the key to his survival, Leepson writes even after he was ultimately transferred to the infamous Hanoi Hilton prison camp. If he acted like an ignorant, uneducated, country bumpkin - and at the same time convinced his captors that he really did fall off a ship and wasnt a CIA spy or a jet fighter pilot - they would more or less treat him benignly, and at the very least not subject him to the physical and mental torture they meted out regularly to the high-value Air Force, Navy, and Marine flyers who were shot down or crash-landed during combat missions over North Vietnam. So Hegdahl committed to the act whole-heartedly. When they asked me to do something, I would ask them how to spell it, Hegdahl later said. They [once] asked me, How was the morale on your ship? And I [said], Morale, how do you spell that? Is that a meat-packing plant in Iowa? Guards began referring to him in the Vietnamese as The Incredibly Stupid One; all the while, Hegdahl was surreptitiously being brilliant. He exhibited remarkable memorization skills, using songs such as Old MacDonald to help solidify the list of POW names in his head. Two years later when Doug did his rapid sing-song blurting for his Pentagon debriefer after he came home, the guy said, Can you slow it down? Leepson writes. To which Doug replied: No, its like riding a bicycle; you tip over if you stop or slow down. Hegdahls inane act enabled him to gather other intel, such as the exact location where prisoners were being held, and sabotage North Vietnamese efforts in other ways. Fellow POW Richard A Stratton, a lieutenant commander of the USS Ticonderoga who was shot down during a recon mission in January 1967, described how guards, because they thought [Hegdahl] was so stupid, let him go out during the siesta period and sweep. I watched . . . and hes sweeping and theyre ignoring him and he backed up to a Jeep or a truck and took the gas cap off and reached down for a little bit of sand and gravel,' Leepson quotes Stratton as saying. Hegdahl dumped the dirt into the gas tank, then did the same thing to another Vietnamese military truck. Hegdahl was honorably discharged following the release, moved near the beach in San Diego and spent the majority of his career working as an instructor in the nearby Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) school POWs maintained a chain of command within the prison camps, and Hegdahl was ordered to accept early release by his fellow prisoner, Lt Commander Richard A Stratton, pictured after release with Doug and his wife; Hegdahl initially refused, unwilling to leave while the others were denied freedom. The apprentice seaman eventually relented months later, however, in order to bring home invaluable information Hegdahl was the youngest and lowest-ranking American POW at Hoa Lo prison, nicknamed the Hanoi Hilton, where most of his fellow prisoners were pilots, officers and graduates of US military academies Im not a mechanic, but I know that after he dumped the stuff in the gas tanks, those trucks had to be hauled out, Stratton said. In fact, one of them, a Jeep, had to be buried there. They couldnt even haul it out. POWs organized and maintained chain of command throughout captivity while trying to abide by the code of conduct laid out for captured service members give only name, rank and service number while avoiding any cooperation whatsoever with the North Vietnamese, regardless of what was promised. The North Vietnamese regularly offered prisoners the opportunity to go home early, but they had to sign something that said they were basically a war criminal and maybe even that the Vietnam War was a crime, stuff like that, says Leepson, also a Vietnam veteran who served with the US Army. Except for 11 others, none of them would do it the other POWs looked down upon the ones who took early release except Doug. This was because Doug, together with the incredible list of names and details in his head, was ordered by the in-camp US command to take the valuable intel home. That order initially came from his friend Stratton but Hegdahl refused. He was unwilling to leave when hundreds of others remained imprisoned under brutal and torturous conditions. Then months and months and months went by, and the situation changed, and Doug realized it would be best if he went home with this valuable information he had, Leepson tells DailyMail.com. So Hegdahl, in August 1969, accepted early release along with two others. When the trio returned home, they revealed the truly atrocious treatment of American POWs, increasing pressure on the North Vietnamese to better care for prisoners . On the same day Hegdahl addressed media at a press conference in Maryland in the weeks after his release, Ho Chi MInh also died - another key contributing factor paving the way for change. The North Vietnamese ordered about 50POWs, including Hegdahl, to attend a staged Christmas Eve party in 1968 for the benefit of friendly foreign journalists Hegdahl, center, was released in August 1969 as part of a propaganda gesture of goodwill by the North Vietnamese; at the end of the release ceremony in Hanoi, when no one was looking, he stole the cigarette holder of one of the most feared interrogators as a final act of defiance Leepson, a seasoned journalist and historical author as well as a veteran, had already been aware of Hegdahls journey before he began writing the book. But the true depths of his fellow veterans journey and bravery astounded him as he researched further. What Doug did as a 20-year-old kid, it increased my admiration for him ten-fold, if not more, he tells DailyMail.com. It was a gutsy, gutsy thing to do, especially considering the consequences, which were very, very real. Hegdahl was honorably discharged following his release, and his parents back in South Dakota had shrewdly ensured his military paychecks were being invested while he was in captivity;. He used the money to buy a home near the beach in San Diego and spent the rest of his career working as an instructor in the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) school in San Diego Bay, studiously avoiding the limelight in the decades after his much-hyped return. Leepson, however, feels its important that Hegdahls remarkable contributions be remembered and the response to the new biography from veterans and other readers indicates that there is wide appreciation and gratitude for the young sailors courageous (and ingenious) efforts. Its crazy, Leepson tells DailyMail.com, the day after the books official publication date. We just sold out the first printing theyre rushing a second printing. The author of 11 books, hes been flabbergasted but gratified by the biographys popularity. To tell this positive, uplifting story, a different kind of POW story Im very, very happy, he says. And to read something positive about the American experience in the Vietnam War, I think, also has resonated with people. Scammers promising to rid their victims of evil spirits have fleeced at least $200,000 from elderly targets. Police say a group of travelling con artists are targeting elderly Asian women on the streets of Box Hill in Melbourne's east as part of an international scam. It is alleged the women convince their victim that there is a spirit following them and that they, or a family member, is in grave danger. The say the only way the victim can rid themselves of the spirit is to bring money and jewellery to the scammers so it can be prayed over. When the victim returns they are told to close their eyes while the group prays over the bag, and exchanges the money and jewels for other items of the same weight. The victim is told not to look in the bag until they get home and when they finally do, they find their valuables have been stolen. Detective Senior Constable Adam Stafford said one of the three victims of the 'cruel scam', which originated in Hong Kong and China, had lost more than $150,000 - their entire life savings. Two others lost as much as $50,000 combined - and there could be more victims who are yet to come forward. Police have released photos of three woman (pictured) they believe can assist with the investigation after three elderly women were scammed out of $150,000 in cash and jewellery It's alleged the three women were also working along with two men (pictured) targeting the Asian community with spirit and blessing scams 'It's quite embarrassing for the victims, a lot of these instances are probably being under-reported for that reason,' Det Stafford told reporters in Box Hill on Tuesday. 'This is not physical offending - it's psychological offending and the damage they are doing to them is not a good thing.' Det Stafford said the victims were aged in their late 70s and 80s. Police believe the scammers may be part of a travelling syndicate, with similar incidents reported in NSW. 'If your elderly mother or grandmother is attending the Box Hill area, and is of Asian descent, make sure they are aware of this scam as they will most likely be approached,' Det Stafford said. EXCLUSIVE A high-performing Year 12 student has taken her own life after running away from home, shocking even the undertaker that organised her funeral. Samia Syeda, 18, vanished from her family's Merrylands apartment in Sydney's west, between 1am and 3am on December 29. She was later found dead near Merrylands train station. Ms Syeda was an only child from a small Bangladeshi family who do not have a big support network in Sydney. Islamic undertaker Ahmad Hraichie, who prepared her funeral service this week, said she confided to a friend that she was feeling suicidal in the hours before her death - but then quickly back-pedalled and insisted she was fine. 'She said to her friend, "Don't worry, I will see you later",' Mr Hraichie told Daily Mail Australia. 'She said she would go to a psychologist on the Tuesday. 'She didn't make it until Tuesday.' Samia Syeda, 18, (pictured) took her own life last month after struggling with 'loneliness' Ms Syeda graduated from Macarthur Girls High School last year, where she excelled in the HSC, placing seventh in her school with a score of 93. But just weeks after finishing Year 12, she walked out of her home in the middle of the night without any explanation. Daily Mail Australia understands she left her phone behind, but took a few personal belongings including changes of clothes. Her body was found a short time later near the local train tracks, with her name written on her arm. Mr Hraichie said it was heartbreaking to think that a teenager could have felt so alone in Australia where there are so many organisations that can give social and psychological support. He urged others who feel depressed or are grappling with mental health issues to make use of such groups, and to reach out for help. 'She was 18 years old. This shouldnt have happened,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'I keep reliving those moments - when she felt so rock bottom to go do that. 'You lose one, we lose all. In the future, lets be proactive, not reactive. 'If you need help, if you want a coffee, I am happy to [be there to] vent.' Her body was discovered near Merrylands Railway Station (pictured) during the early hours of December 29 Islamic undertaker Ahmad Hraichie (pictured) hopes Ms Syeda's death will encourage others who are struggling to reach out for support Her death has left the city's Muslim community in mourning, with group leader Nafsun Mutma'innah revealing that the teen had been struggling with 'loneliness'. 'It seems that the suicide was indicative of underlying personal issues and feelings of isolation,' he wrote online. 'This loss highlights a growing concern about suicide and suicidal ideation, especially among our youth. Adolescence can be a time of intense emotional and social pressures, especially in the harmful age of social media, especially for girls. 'If you notice friends or family members - especially young people - showing signs of despair or talking about losing hope, do not hesitate to reach out to them and offer them a space to talk to you or just sit in silence with them, being present with them.' Hundreds of mourners gathered at Lakemba Mosque on Monday to pay their respects to Ms Syeda, before her body was taken to its final resting place at Rookwood Cemetery. A longtime friend said she would have 'never guessed' Samia would take her own life. 'My brothers and sisters, I beg, if you know someone that's struggling, regardless of proximity, please ask them if they're ok,' she said. 'You will never know what's happening behind closed doors, people need a shoulder to lean on. 'A simple question can change someone's life.' For confidential support 24/7, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 An asylum seeker who was among almost 500 migrants rescued from their flooded hotel has told how it brought back frightening memories of crossing the English Channel by boat. The terrified group - including men, women and children - were ferried to safety by dinghies, with one emergency worker falling into the icy water during the massive night-time evacuation effort. Dramatic footage shows dirty brown water swamping the lobby of the Britannia Country House Hotel in Northenden, Greater Manchester, where the asylum seekers were staying at taxpayers' expense. Shocked residents many of whom had only recently reached the UK after illegally crossing the Channel on small boats - watched as the swollen River Mersey swallowed up parked cars on New Year's Day. On Monday one of the 483 rescued asylum seekers paid tribute to emergency workers as 'heroes' and said their actions 'undoubtedly saved many lives'. But Mostafa Rajabi, 43, a Christian from Iran who was smuggled into the UK along with his 15-year-old daughter in November, said the incident revived traumatic memories of their crossing. 'It exactly brought back the experience of crossing the English Channel for everyone,' he told MailOnline. 'The distress was clearly visible on everyone's faces. An asylum seeker who was among almost 500 migrants rescued from their flooded hotel has told how it brought back frightening memories of crossing the English Channel by boat The Britannia Country House Hotel in Northenden, Greater Manchester, where the asylum seekers were staying at taxpayers' expense But Mostafa Rajabi (pictured), 43, a Christian from Iran who was smuggled into the UK along with his 15-year-old daughter in November, said the incident revived traumatic memories of their crossing 'When it came to boarding the boat, we imagined we would once again get soaked in the intense cold, and that thought was very distressing. 'Fortunately we were able to leave the hotel in inflatable boats provided by the rescue team, with only a small number of people boarding each one, and we did so without getting wet.' Mr Rajabi said they were awoken at 9am but initially told to stay put in the hope the water would subside. As the day progressed they began taking refuge on higher floors of the hotel as the floodwaters rose. 'Many people were in shock and no-one knew what to do,' he added. 'There was a great deal of stress and anxiety.' By 5pm the lobby was knee-deep in murky water, the restaurant was flooded and the electricity had been cut off, so plans were made to evacuate everyone. Speaking after being taken to alternative accommodation, Mr Rajabi said: 'We just want to express our gratitude to the heroes of that unforgettable night.' Police in Greater Manchester declared a major incident on New Year's Day after hundreds of people awoke to find themselves after almost a month's rain fell in 48 hours. Asylum seekers who were staying in the hotel pictured leaving the flooded property with their belongings The terrified group - including men, women and children - were ferried to safety by dinghies, with one emergency worker falling into the icy water during the massive night-time evacuation effort Dramatic footage shows dirty brown water swamping the lobby of the Britannia Country House Hotel in Northenden, Greater Manchester, where the asylum seekers were staying at taxpayers' expense With support from fire crews they evacuated the asylum seekers using powered inflatable boats after flooding cut off power and water supplies. Officers said the flood water was particularly hazardous due to contaminants and its speed of flow. The hotel is part of the Britannia chain, owned by 'Asylum king' Alex Langsam. The octogenarian tycoon lives in a 3.4million Cheshire mansion and has raked in nearly 100,000 of profit every day despite Britannia being ranked the worst hotel chain in the UK for an entire decade. He has built up an estimated 248million fortune through Britannia Hotels, which enjoys lucrative taxpayer-funded contracts to house asylum seekers across its 60 sites. Rescued asylum seekers are now understood to have been put up at other hotels. Praising hotel operators Serco for their 'professional and well co-ordinated' actions during the rescue, Mr Rajabi also paid tribute to volunteers from a local mosque and church who helped the evacuees. 'The exceptional co-ordination among these organisations demonstrated that we were in capable hands,' he said. 'Their efforts undoubtedly saved many lives. 'This sense of gratitude is not limited to us alone - I am confident that other residents feel equally thankful for these acts of selflessness. 'We hope these efforts are recognised and celebrated as an example to others.' Shocked residents many of whom had only recently reached the UK after illegally crossing the Channel on small boats - watched as the swollen River Mersey swallowed up parked cars on New Year's Day Officers said the flood water was particularly hazardous due to contaminants and its speed of flow Rescued asylum seekers are now understood to have been put up at other hotels Following the rescue, Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson said: 'We'd like to extend our thanks to the communities of Greater Manchester, particularly those in the severely flooded areas, for pulling together and cooperating with the emergency services.' Today a Serco spokeswoman said: 'We can confirm a total of 483 people were evacuated from the hotel by our staff and moved to temporary accommodation following the flood. 'They will return to the hotel when the necessary repairs are completed.' The evacuation comes after hotels in Altrincham and Berkshire were turned into migrant accommodation in spite of Labour's manifesto pledge to end the use of hotels, barges and military sites to house asylum seekers. The Home Office has said it is committed to tackling the asylum backlog and reducing reliance on hotel accommodation. The father of a six-month-old girl watched helplessly as his newborn daughters pram was crushed against a wall by a car driven by a close friend who had joined him on a New Years break. Tragic Sophia Kelemen died in hospital from her injuries following the incident on the ground floor of a multi-storey car park in Tenby, Pembrokeshire. The babys aunt Adriana revealed that the driver was a close friend of the babys parents Alex and Betty Keleman. Tributes have since poured in for the 'smiley' tot after she was killed in the holiday tragedy. Flaviu Naghi, who has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, had been on a New Years break with his wife and the babys parents. Police said he was also arrested on suspicion of drink and drug driving. Adriana, 21, told MailOnline the group - Alex, his son and daughter and the driver and his wife - had returned to their car after a shopping trip in Tenby. They were all on a New Year break and had been out to the shopping centre. From what I have been told Alex was with his daughter and five-year-old son while his wife remained back at the AirBnB. 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 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 Alex and his son were not injured, but he had to watch as the pram with Sophia was crushed against a wall. He and his wife are distraught. They are friends with the driver who was arrested. They were all on a getaway together. It is awful. Adriana has launched a GoFundMe page to raise money so that Sophia can have a funeral in her family's native Romania. Alex, 27, a lorry driver, has lived Leigh, Manchester, since 2016 and his wife since 2018. The Fund-raising page gives details of the tragic accident. Adriana wrote: Never in a million years would I have thought I would have to write a post like this. My name is Adriana, the auntie of my beloved niece Sophia. A seemingly ordinary day turned into our familys worst nightmare. A driver hit the pram in which little Sophia was in a supermarket car park. She was airlifted to the hospital with a broken pelvis and a brain bleed and was ultimately diagnosed with brain damage due to the impact. Six-month-old Sophia Kelemen, from the Leigh, Manchester area, held by her father with her mother and elder brother 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 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 Despite the efforts of the doctors, Sophia could not cope with the impact, the surgery, anaesthesia, the brain 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 laws 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. The family have set a target of 2,000 but have been told it could be several days before the body can be released and flown back to Romania. Adriana added: 'My brother and two younger sisters and I all grew up together in Leigh. We had just been together at Christmas. Sophia hardly ever cried. She was so smiley and bubbly. We used to say she was so advanced for her age. 'She really wanted to walk, and was really excited, playful and energetic. She was the cutest and most adorable girl, who had just started babbling. It's horrible we didn't get the chance to see her grow up or make memories with her. 'We are all originally from Romania. Sophia was born here and lived in Leigh, but for closure my brother has decided to bury her there because of our roots. 'They haven't asked anyone for help. Nothing will bring her back, but I have decided to do this to try and help. They're trying to grieve and mourn the loss of their child while taking care of her brother, who has seen everything. This isn't something anyone can prepare for or foresee.' The crash took place on the ground floor of the multi-storey car park at about 4pm last Thursday, Dyfed-Powys Police revealed, and involved a grey Nissan Qashqai. A force spokesperson said: 'Sadly, we can confirm that a six-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. 'This is a tragic incident and is a live investigation. We ask that you do not speculate the circumstances and allow our officers to carry out their enquiries.' Flaviu Naghi, 33, from Wigan, was charged and remanded to appear before Swansea Magistrates' Court on Saturday, where he was further remanded to appear before Swansea Crown Court on February 7. A rapper was shot dead 'with military precision' as he sat in a car in a revenge attack three years after he was cleared of murder, a court has heard. Tamba Momodu, known as Teerose, moved 160 miles from London after he was acquitted at the Old Bailey of murdering another rapper, 19-year-old Abdullahi Tarabi. But a court heard Momodu was allegedly traced by relatives of his victim before the 20-year-old was gunned down in a 'cold-blooded execution' after the defendants made 16 trips to Telford, Shropshire, where he had moved with his family. Prosecutor James Curtis KC said Momodu was shot six times in a car park at point-blank range four years ago as he was about to go the gym with two friends. Jurors heard Mr Momodu had moved from north London to Telford in 2018 to start a new life after he was cleared of murdering Mr Tarabi, known as Teewiz, who was stabbed in an alleyway in Northolt, West London, in April 2017. Prosecutor allege Mr Momodu was 'stalked' and tracked down by Tarabi's older brother and cousin who were intent on revenge. Mahamud Tarabi, 32, and Ahmed Karshe, 30, who are both on trial for Mr Momodu's murder, alongside Deria Hassan, 32, and Merje Ngoy, 24, are said to have found the victim's new location after he was jailed in October 2019 for possession with intent to supply drugs and his new address was published in the media. Mr Curtis 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. Tamba Momodu (pictured) was shot dead 'with military precision' as he sat in a car in a revenge attack three years after he was cleared of murder, a court has heard Momodu, known as Teerose, moved 160 miles from London after he was acquitted at the Old Bailey of murdering another rapper, 19-year-old Abdullahi Tarabi (pictured) Police at the scene of the shooting outside Fitness Factor gym at the Bridges Business Park in Horsehay, Telford It was on their 16th visit to Telford that they finally 'ambushed' Mr Momodu and 'singled him out for death' in October 2020 as Mr Momodu sat in the passenger seat of a friend's car outside the Fitness Factory gym. Mr Momodu's friend had unknowingly parked his Renault Megan next to a Skoda Karoq on false plates that had been stolen from London that July 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 victim's back, neck, his heart and his left lung. Mr Curtis said the fatal attack was 'choreographed' and 'meticulously planned', 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 Momodu's side of the car and no accident the others in the car were untouched.' Later that night, the Skoda was torched in a remote car park close to The Wrekin beauty spot outside the town, 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 Tarabi's phone circling the victim's new address. Stafford Crown Court heard 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. A person from the police forensics team pictured at the scene of the fatal shooting A police car and members of the forensics team in front of a tent that had been set up at the site Police officers on the case had cordoned off the scene of the crime with tape at the time 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 Momodu's gym, his address and the car park where the Skoda was later set alight. Karshe, of no fixed address, Hassan, of Greenford, London, Tarabi, of 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. The trial continues. It comes as over 60,000 Aussies wait for social housing A NIMBY war has broken out in a Sydney suburb as residents argue a proposed social housing block will disturb the 'serene atmosphere' of their street. Homes NSW is proposing to build a three-storey, 29-unit complex on Hardwicke Street in Riverwood, southwest Sydney. The block will house residents aged over 60, mostly women, who are deemed at risk of homelessness - as the waiting list for social housing in NSW balloons to more than 62,500 people. But residents have expressed their strong opposition in a petition and letter forwarded to the NSW Government by the Liberal member for Oatley, Mark Coure. The letter said the development, which includes 14 carparks, would cause an influx of cars and residents and disrupt the 'serene atmosphere' of Hardwicke Street, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. The complex, on a street of mostly single and two-storey houses, would also threaten the 'sense of seclusion and tranquility' and cause an 'unwanted invasion of privacy' as those on upper floors would be able to see over their neighbours' fences. Residents say they will therefore have to keep their blinds or curtains drawn 'at all times'. They want the government to instead develop a low-density, low-rise option in keeping with the character of the street. Homes NSW is proposing to build the three-storey, 29-unit complex on Hardwicke Street in Riverwood, southwest Sydney (pictured is an artists impression of the unit block) Oatley MP Mark Coure (pictured) who served as Minister for Seniors under Liberal Premier Dominic Perrottet, shared opposition to the build with NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson 'Hardwicke Street has long been a peaceful, family-oriented neighbourhood, and this high-density project threatens to fundamentally alter its character, ambience, and appeal,' the letter continued. 'Preserving the unique, low-density character of Hardwicke Street is critical for maintaining the wellbeing and quality of life for its residents.' The project has sparked a war of words between Mr Coure and NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson, who said the project complied with planning regulations and was desperately needed. 'The fact we have to push through objections from local Liberal MPs to deliver such a project is so frustrating,' Ms Jackson told the Herald. 'Mr Coure should be engaging with his community to explain why this project is a much-needed and positive addition to their neighbourhood well-designed social housing integrated into our communities makes our city more functional and more stable.' Mr Coure, who served as Minister for Seniors under Liberal Premier Dominic Perrottet administration, said he did not personally oppose the project but was making residents' concerns known. 'As a local MP, my job is to represent the concerns of my constituents to the government of the day,' he said. 'In Riverwood and broadly across my local community, parking and congestion on our local streets are a significant issue and challenge for those who live and work in the area.' NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson (pictured) said the 29-unit bloc complied with planning regulations and was desperately as more than 60,000 people wait for housing Mr Coure said the community had already supported more appropriate projects in the area in the past, such as a 16-unit block for seniors built at Lugarno in 2021. It come as a growing number of Australians face homelessness in NSW as the state's worsening housing shortage due to record immigration levels pushes more people onto the streets. The annual street count for the state in 2024 revealed a 25 per cent spike in the number of Aussies sleeping rough. Officials found 2,037 people were sleeping on the streets, up from 1,623 in 2023. 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. An Australian father has warned young people against purchasing a brand-new car, describing it as one of the worst financial decisions he has ever made. Eric Ho Pham, from Reservoir in Melbourne's north, claimed buying a new ute was the 'dumbest' decision he made, despite loving the car. Mr Pham said he purchased the ute after he finished his apprenticeship and became a qualified electrician. 'When I was an electrical apprentice, I pretty much did my whole apprenticeship on a motorbike,' Mr Pham explained. 'I'd carry my tools on my back and tie it all funny to my bike and I'd kind of make it work. 'As soon as I got qualified and I started making big money, I just thought I can afford a car now.' Mr Pham explained he went to a Mazda dealership and saw a shiny BT-50 in the lot. Eric Ho Pham (pictured) claimed buying his Mazda BT-50 was the 'dumbest' decision he has ever made and warned young Aussies not to get into debt by buying a new car 'Me being naive and young and not ever buying a car before in my life, got sucked in by the slimy salesman and signed my life away on this $70,000 car,' Mr Pham said. Mr Pham said taking out a loan to pay for the car did not concern him at the time because he believed he could afford the repayments on his new salary. However, he said he quickly learned that having a debt meant he was completely reliant on his job. 'I was tied to the job and that's when working didn't become fun anymore,' Mr Pham said. 'It was like I was on a hamster wheel working to pay off this debt.' Mr Pham, who now works designing clothes through his business Cruzado, urged young motorists to save their money and be debt-free instead of buying a new car. 'If you're young, just drive the cheapest, most reliable car that you can afford and save your money,' Mr Pham said. 'It's that simple. Don't care about what people think about what you drive because, at the end of the day, they don't.' Social media users agreed with Mr Pham, with many claiming their car debt made them feel stuck financially. 'A lot of people need to hear this. I just got qualified myself, so I know the temptation. Nothing wrong with driving s**tboxes and being debt-free,' one said. 'Car debt can weigh you down. Save, plan, and buy smart to stay financially free,' a second added. 'I agree - we are about to purchase a brand new car 15 years into being married and I'm panicking about being tied to my job to pay it off. Seriously reconsidering it,' a third said. Mr Pham said he was 'young and naive' and was sucked into buying the vehicle for $70,000 (pictured). He urged young Aussies to be debt free by saving their money and driving an affordable car Around 12 per cent of Australians - about 2.5million people - had a car loan in July 2024, according to Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker. Australian Bureau of Statistics data revealed that total new vehicle lending was at $1.5billion as of July 2024 - increasing from $1.3billion from the previous year. Aussie motorists set a new record for vehicle purchases in 2024, with 1,237,287 new vehicles delivered. This represents a 1.7 per cent increase compared to 2023, when a previous record of 1,216,780 new registrations was recorded. TOP SELLING NEW VEHICLES IN 2024 1. Toyota RAV4: 58,718 2. Ford Ranger: 57,960 3. Toyota HiLux: 45,839 4. Mitsubishi Outlander: 27,613 5. Ford Everest: 26,494 6. Isuzu D-Max: 24,031 7. Toyota Corolla: 24,027 8. Mazda CX-5: 22,835 9. MG ZS: 22,629 10. Kia Sportage: 22,210 Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries Surveillance video from multiple homes in a peaceful Louisiana neighborhood have caught a creeper peeping through windows, running through backyards and attempting to open doors. Residents Lake Beau Pre, an area near Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, have been terrorized by the unknown prowler for months now. So far, their only recourse has been to post videos of the suspect skulking around their properties in the predawn hours. A neighbor named Hannah shared her experience with local news station WBRZ, hoping to put an end to the harassment. Hannah, who declined to be identified by her last name or have her face appear on camera, revealed that she's been seeing videos of the creeper since September 2024. She believes it's one person and not multiple people invading people's property. The resident pointed to the distinctive way the person walks and the suspect's purple Nike high-top shoes that appear in several of the videos. The person is often seen wearing a dark-colored hoodie, gloves and some sort of face covering. Sometimes the suspect is shown carrying an object or wearing a backpack in the footage. The mysterious suspect is seen in the yard of someone's home dressed in all black In this footage, the person is seen running across someone's driveway Hannah, pictured on the right, speaks to a WBRZ reporter about having to endure the harassment for months without any end in sight Hannah said the person's intrusions usually occur between the hours of 3am and 5am. 'I'm terrified. I'm paranoid in the first place, but when it started happening here I was scared to go to bed,' she said. 'Not much has been done about it. Mainly, it's frustrating and scary.' The community's homeowner association has told residents to lock their doors and report any suspicious activity to police. DailyMail.com has reached out to the Baton Rouge Police Department for more information. A young man from Indonesia on a working holiday in Australia now earns in just two days what would be an entire month's salary back home. Working as a cleaner at a shopping centre, the young man reflected on the bold decision to move to Australia, and how it changed his life forever. 'One month in Australia has given me some of the best experiences of my life,' he said in a video posted to social media 'At 23, I never imagined working in another country and being welcomed so warmly. I'm truly grateful.' He also revealed that he can earn up to $60 per hour on public holidays. The young man explained that he keeps his living costs low by sharing a room, paying $130 a week with all bills included. 'As a working holiday visa holder working 40 plus hours a week, I can enjoy my lifestyle, save money, and even send some back to my family in Indonesia. Im truly grateful for everything I have right now. 'Your pay for two days is the same as your one month salary in Indonesia.' In one of his videos, he films himself cleaning toilets, sweeping, and pushing a cleaning cart around the shopping center. The young man's inspirational attitude and strong work ethic have been applauded by Aussies. 'This guy is a legend in every sense of the word,' one wrote. 'Thank you for coming here and contributing so much! Your work is appreciated,' a second said. At just 23, an Indonesian man on a working holiday visa in Australia earns in two days what would take a month back home Australia's net overseas migration continues to trend high, welcoming over 446,000 migrants in 2023-24 'So glad you love Australia. Thanks for coming, we always need more wonderful humans,' a third added. There are more than 2,408,196 temporary visa holders in Australia, which include 53,655 from Indonesia. Australia took in 446,000 net overseas migrants during the 2023-24 financial year, according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics This is a decrease from the record-high 536,000 in 2022-23, it remains significantly higher than the Albanese governments target of 395,000. International students made up the largest portion of migrants, totalling 207,000, with India being the leading source country. Labors mid-year budget update in December forecast 340,000 migrants arriving in Australia in 2024-25. That already represents a blow-out on the 260,000 forecast in the May Budget. The failure to meet targets raised doubt over the slowing of forecast net overseas migration in the next three years with 225,000 more arrivals than departures expected in 2026-27 and 225,000 in 2027-28. The Albanese government has suffered another stunning court loss in its attempts to keep foreign-born criminals off Australian streets. A man who attacked his wife with a meat cleaver has been freed by the Federal Court after it ruled former Immigration Minister Andrew Giles made multiple 'jurisdictional errors' in attempting to strip his visa. The man, who is part of a persecuted minority from Bhutan and so cannot be deported, had his visa cancelled by Mr Giles in June, but the Federal Court has quashed that. Last month, Judge Nye Perram ruled that Mr Giles did not consider the impact on the man's children and his status as a stateless person when overruling an Administrative Appeals Tribunal decision to let him stay in Australia. 'Whether the minister seeks to exercise the cancellation power again will be for him to decide,' Justice Perram said. 'The minister must bear the applicant's costs as taxed, assessed or otherwise agreed.' The man, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, PTSD and alcohol-use disorder, was stripped of his protection visa after being convicted of a string of offences against his wife. These included breaching a domestic violence order, assault and property damage after he attacked her with a meat cleaver and damaged her vehicle. Federal Court has overturned the attempt by former immigration minister Andrew Giles to cancel a man's visa He also threatened to kill his wife, who sought refuge with neighbours, one of whom the man struck a number of times with the meat cleaver. A Home Affairs Department spokeswoman told The Australian the government was aware of the Federal Court's ruling. 'The Department is considering the judgment,' the spokeswoman said. The latest decision adds to the political nightmare federal Labor has faced since the High Court ruled in November 2023, that non-citizens who cannot be deported can't be indefinitely detained even if previously criminally convicted. That decision, along with other legal challenges lost by the Albanese government, has seen murderers and child rapists back on the streets, with dozens being arrested for various crimes or breaching release conditions. The Bhutan man's release also highlights the mess created by the government's Direction 99 order, announced by Mr Giles in May. A detainee released after 2023's High Court decision that indefinite detention is unlawful Mr Giles asked courts and tribunals to consider someone's ties to Australia as a primary consideration when reviewing their visa. However, the order has led to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal stopping the removal of dozens of dangerous offenders from Australian shores. The Coalition has pounced on this latest in a string of failed court actions, saying the government's failure to legislate a way to remove undesirable criminals had left it at the mercy of the courts. 'The Albanese government's chaotic and incompetent management of our migration system continues to risk the safety of the Australian public,' Opposition Home Affairs spokesman James Paterson said. 'Their soft ministerial directions are being overturned in the courts by hardened-criminals and their sloppy paperwork jeopardises even more.' Mr Giles was forced to replace Direction 99 with a new order, Direction 110, before he was stripped of the immigration portfolio in a ministerial reshuffle in late July, replaced by Tony Burke. Influencer Jayden Clark said family won lottery when he was younger A young man has revealed how he felt guilty and like an 'outcast' after his family's lottery win, and that it took years - and a move overseas - to come to terms with his new life. Jayden Clark, 22, told how his mother collected him and his sister from school with a 'huge surprise' waiting for them at their Adelaide home about a decade ago. Inside, his parents held up a 'gigantic' cheque indicating they had won the jackpot. 'Overnight we went from being pretty decently poor to multi-millionaires,' he said. 'It was the most interesting thing to ever happen to us. 'At this stage my parents were fighting to keep (the modest family home), and it was very much paycheque-to-paycheque lifestyle. 'My dad, being a bit of a gambler... used the same repeat numbers he'd been using for five years and he won the lottery.' Mr Clark said he felt ill at ease telling people what had happened. 'For the longest time I would always go back and forth from wanting to share my story to then feeling so embarrassed by it,' he said. Influencer Jayden Clark, 22, revealed his family won the lottery in Adelaide ten years ago He said he often felt embarrassed by his humble family's meteoric rise to being multi-millionaires 'Growing up, at least in Australia, when I did become aware of it, [people] would always make it very clear that we didn't deserve it because we didn't work hard. 'Even growing up we had the most beautiful house, like it was a blueprint for a reality show. 'It was on a street with like doctors and priests that owned churches and there was us. We were this like bogan lottery family.' Once he moved to the United States, he began to feel better about his situation. 'Not until I came to LA did I feel like I belonged and was normal, because there's so many crazy people here with crazy lives. Back home I even felt like an outcast,' Mr Clark said. 'But I definitely was made to feel it wasn't anything to be proud of.' The 22-year-old said at first his family didn't know how to manage the millions, but now they live comfortably Mr Clark found his parents holding a 'gigantic' oversized cheque when he returned home from school one day Mr Clark said his mother was instrumental in ensuring the wealth meant the family would live 'comfortably' for years to come Mr Clark said the family did share some of their windfall. 'My mum was very generous, helping family,' he said. 'Growing up, my best friends would spend Christmas Eve and stay over with us and have Santa bring them presents.' Mr Clark said despite that, there was still an element of guilt that they had this undeserved wealth while family and friends still struggled. 'We'd almost feel bad, not for them directly, but more so feel bad that we were so lucky,' he said. In the beginning, Mr Clark said the family had no idea how to manage the cash. His parents were not carefree with the money, and tried to plan a way to make it last. 'They didn't have anyone that came from money. They really had to figure it all out on their own,' Mr Clark said. His mum managed to make the family's wealth last in the decade since the win. Mr Clark revealed his parents are no longer multi-millionaires, but have set themselves up to be 'comfortable'. Perverts who make disgusting deepfake porn will face up to two years in jail under new measures announced today. Creating the sexual images will become a specific criminal offence for the first time. Deepfakes usually involve using computer software to remove someones clothes from a legitimate photograph or video, and falsely depicting them nude or committing sexual acts. Labour will now legislate to ban the images, despite failing to back a Conservative bid to outlaw the vile practice last month. Tory peer Baroness Owen brought a private members bill on the issue to the Lords before Christmas but ministers declined to support the move, leaving it with no chance of becoming law. Now Labour will introduce legislation criminalising the creating and sharing of such images. It will also broaden current laws which prohibit the taking of intimate images without consent. Both new crimes will carry up to two years imprisonment. The Government will today unveil plans to make creating 'deepfake' porn punishable by up to two years in prison (file photo) Labour failed to back a private members' bill to ban the practice tabled by Conservative peer Baroness Owen last month Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones said: These new offences will help prevent people being victimised online. We are putting offenders on notice - they will face the full force of the law. Technology minister Baroness Jones said: The rise of intimate image abuse is a horrifying trend that exploits victims and perpetuates a toxic online culture. These acts are not just cowardly, they are deeply damaging, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately targeted. With these new measures, were sending an unequivocal message: creating or sharing these vile images is not only unacceptable but criminal. Tech companies need to step up, too - platforms hosting this content will face tougher scrutiny and significant penalties. The deepfakes offences will apply to images of adults only, as existing laws cover those of children. Home Office minister Jess Phillips has disclosed she was the victim of a deepfake, describing how she understood the violation on a personal level. The new specific offence will apply to images of adults only, with existing laws covering those of children (file photo) Celebrities including Taylor Swift and Emma Watson have been the victim of deepfake videos (file photo) Other victims include pop star Taylor Swift and Harry Potter star Emma Watson. The new offences will be included in the Governments Crime and Policing Bill, which is yet to be published. Rebecca Hitchen of the End Violence Against Women Coalition said: While we welcome this announcement we are yet to see a timeline for the offence or any details about the new law, which will be crucial to how effective it is. The Government must make good on its commitments to survivors - delaying action will only put women and girls in harms way. UK military chiefs have incorporated Artificial Intelligence into defence systems following attacks by Russias shadow fleet on deep sea pipelines. The harnessing of AI in the Nordic Warden infrastructure will track potential threats and calculate threats to assets beneath the Baltic Sea. The move by the international Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), which includes the UK, comes after a major electricity supply link was sabotaged. Last month, the Eagle S oil tanker dragged its anchor across the seabed severing the electricity cable and four telecommunications cables. The vessel was subsequently seized by Finnish officials pending a criminal inquiry. Investigators believe her Georgian and Indian crew were acting on Kremlin instructions. A Finnish court has denied requests for the oil tanker, which is registered in the Cook Islands, to be released. It apparently belongs to Russias shadow fleet of ageing tankers used to illegally transport its oil and for sabotage operations. Attacks on power cables, telecom links and gas pipelines beneath the Baltic Sea have increased since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022. UK military chiefs have made use of AI to track potential threats and calculate threats to assets beneath the Baltic Sea (file photo) Pictured: The Eagle S oil tanker which used its anchor to severe and electricity cable and four telecommunications cables Attacks on power cables, telecom links and gas pipelines beneath the Baltic Sea have increased since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022 (pictured: EstLink 2 power cable) Joint Expeditionary Force ships are currently monitoring 22 areas of the English Channel, North Sea, Kattegat and Baltic Sea The UK is the JEFs framework nation and is leading its response to the recent maritime security crisis. AI will assess data from multiple sources, including the Automatic Identification Systems used by ships to broadcast their positions. Vessels suspected of being used by Russia have been registered into the system and can be closely monitored in real time. Warnings over their presence will be shared among JEF members. Last night, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: I am pleased we are launching this cutting edge technology, following the JEF summit, to enhance European security. JEF warships are currently monitoring 22 areas of the English Channel, North Sea, Kattegat and Baltic Sea. While in a bid to thwart the Russian shadow fleet the UK has sanctioned 93 oil tankers. The JEF consists of ten nations with strong naval traditions, the UK, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, the Netherlands and Sweden. A collection of stickers sold online depicting characters from Bluey in army camouflage and armed with guns has caused an online backlash. The stickers show Bluey driving a ute, with her younger sister sitting on heavy weaponry mounted in the back. Other stickers depict Bluey's parents, Bandit and Chilli, as well as her grandfather Mort, in army fatigues, all holding rifles. The stickers, designed by 'We Few,' were sold on the online sticker marketplace Valor Vinyls. The widespread online backlash prompted Valor Vinyls to swiftly remove the designs from its website on Tuesday. 'It's totally inappropriate and vile to use children's TV characters like this,' one Aussie said. 'Gun culture should not be normalised or glorified to children.' 'I don't care if I'm becoming a Karen or whatever, this is horrid,' a second said. An Aussie artist and online retailer has been slammed for selling stickers depicting the family from beloved children's show Bluey holding guns and in tactical gear (pictured) A third said that even if it was intended to be a joke, it 'still sucks, not funny at all'. This isnt the first time We Few has faced controversy over his designs. A shirt manufacturer once stopped production of one of his designs, which depicted Bert and Ernie torturing Oscar the Grouch, with the words 'W is for Waterboarding;. 'The company who was printing our designs has decided that waterboarding kids characters is a bit too violent for them and they no longer wish to provide the service,' the designer said. A number of Aussies said the design stood at odds with the wholesome nature of the show and and glorified 'gun culture' towards children The artist behind the design previously had a manufacturer refuse to print his shirt featuring the torture of a Sesame Street character (pictured) While that designer's work has been removed from Valor Vinyl's website, a number of other controversial products remain available for $8 each. They include chocolate mascot Freddo Frog holding a light machine gun and wearing a shirt saying 'f**k off' while holding up the middle finger. Another mascot featured on the website is the Caramello Koala, wearing a shirt reading 'thug' and wielding two submachine guns. President Elect Donald Trump has chosen yet another Fox News veteran to join his administration as woke crusader Tammy Bruce is headed to the State Department. Bruce, a former liberal, was selected to became spokesperson for the key diplomatic post, serving under current Florida Senator Marco Rubio after his Senate confirmation. The former Fox Nation host and Fox News Channel contributor is the latest network employee to join the new administration. So far, Fox alums joining Team Trump include" Defense Secretary pick Pete Hegseth, border 'czar' Tom Homan, national security advisor Michael Waltz, Israel ambassador pick Mike Huckabee, director of national intelligence hopeful Tulsi Gabbard, would be Attorney General Pam Bondi and several others. Like many of her future co-workers, Bruce has a history of controversial statements on air that have upset liberals but also her future boss, Rubio. From 2014 to 2016, Bruce was ardently against Rubio during his role in the Senate and his own failed run for the White House which he lost to Trump, among several other hopefuls. When Rubio announced his run, Bruce tweeted: 'Another inexperienced senator who's never run a thing in his life? Pass.' During the Republican Primary debates in 2016, she referred to Rubio as a 'kid waving frantically in the back of room trying to prove relevance.' Tammy Bruce becomes the latest Fox News veteran to join Donald Trump 's Cabinet, naming her spokesperson for the State Department The Fox Nation host and Fox News Channel contributor is the latest network employee to join the new administration She also slammed him for working with Democrats like Chuck Schumer on the failed 'Gang of Eight' immigration bill and said at one point in 2016 that she had to 'mute Marco.' The uncovered anti-Rubio tweets were uncovered first by Politico. However, much of her fire is reserved for the Democrat Party, as well as 'woke' liberal activists. In 2021, she drew outrage for claiming that Democrats were proposing funding for research on mutant, human-animal hybrids. 'Chimeric research is Pandora's box, that's obviously from hell, that should not be opened,' she said. 'But the scientific community, spurred on by their own hubris, may very well open it, using American taxpayer dollars. And if that happens the Democrats will have blood on their hands for not joining the GOP and stopping it when they had a chance.' Trump announced Bruce's hiring in a post on Truth Social on Friday night. 'It is my great honor to announce that Tammy Bruce will be joining our incredible Nominee for United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, as Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State,' he said. 'As one of the longest serving News Contributors, Tammy has brought TRUTH to the American People for over two decades.' Like many of her future co-workers, Bruce has a history of controversial statements on air that have upset liberals but also her future boss, Rubio Trump also noted that Bruce is a former liberal activist, once the president of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Organization for Women. She was censured by NOW for leading protests against the 1995 acquittal of OJ Simpson, The Advocate reported. Bruce has since moved progressively to the right and become a prominent 'anti-woke' activist, with Trump claiming that she 'saw the lies and fraud of the Radical Left, and quickly became one of the strongest Conservative voices on Radio and Television.' 'Tammy Bruce has been an extremely valued contributor at FOX News Media for nearly 20 years and we wish her all the best in her new role,' a spokesperson for Fox News told DailyMail.com in a statement. Trump has begun filling out some of the media relations wing of his administration, after naming Steven Cheung his communications director and Karoline Leavitt as White House Press Secretary. She will likely be working under Rubio, who is considered one of the less controversial picks for the Cabinet. The Florida senator has gone from being denigrated by Trump as 'Little Marco,' a heated campaign rival, to perhaps the most coveted of all Cabinet posts after coming around on Trump and campaigning fervently for the MAGA Republican even after being passed over for vice president on the ticket. Rubio, who was elected to the Senate in 2010, is considered a foreign policy hawk who has taken hard lines on China, Iran, Venezuela and Cuba, and will lead Trump's prowess on the world stage as his Secretary of State. He currently serves as the top Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee and was considered to be on Trump's shortlist for vice president earlier this year. As Secretary of State, Rubio would be a key Trump envoy to press Ukraine to find a way towards a settlement with Russia in their years-long conflict. In 2019, Rubio pushed Trump to adopt the harsh sanctions he ultimately deployed against Venezuela to try to unseat its authoritarian president, Nicolas Maduro. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, R-Fla., praised Trump's selection of Rubio. 'Congratulations to our very own SECRETARY OF STATE who will be the highest serving Hispanic in American History!' he wrote on X. Rubio will follow Trump's former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The president-elect's second term as president is being shaped by the loyal allies who stood by him during his four years outside the White House. As the clock ticks down to his inauguration on January 20, all eyes will be on Mar-a-Lago as Republicans jostle for a cabinet spot or a senior role in the West Wing. Bruce will be working under Marco Rubio, who is considered one of the less controversial picks for the Cabinet And those are filling fast. A slew of potential appointees have emerged for top Cabinet or West Wing roles and a handful of contenders for other vital positions have emerged. Those include Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy as co-heads of the 'Department of Government Efficiency', and John Ratcliffe as Director of the CIA. But the president-elect sent shockwaves through the Republican Party with his announcement that he'll nominate now former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as his Attorney General in a bold - and ultimately failed - test of his unchecked power. Gaetz was forced to withdraw on Nov. 21 amid an alleged underage sex scandal and hours later Trump tapped former Florida AG Pam Bondi as his new pick. He has also nominated former Democrat Tulsi Gabbard, who infuriated critics with claims about 'biolabs' in Ukraine, to be Director of National Intelligence. And his choice of military veteran and Fox News host Pete Hegseth to run the sprawling Defense Department, despite little experience managing anything of that scale and complexity, has come under fire as well, heightened by allegations of a past sex assault. Perhaps the biggest bombshell came with his announcement of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to be secretary of Health & Human Services, rather than as a non-cabinet health czar. An Ohio police officer has filed a bombshell lawsuit against the Portage County Sheriff's Office, alleging a chilling abuse of power. Officer Miranda L. Brothers, 29, with the Mantua Police Department claims she was wrongfully arrested, and her five-year-old son was placed in foster care, while private, explicit photos from her phone were taken and passed around the sheriff's staff. Brothers, a single mother, is now suing the sheriff's office for over $150,000 in punitive damages. Her lawsuit accuses the department of malicious prosecution, constitutional violations, intentional emotional distress, and grave misconduct. Brothers also claims there is a complete lack of evidence to support the allegations against her. According to the suit, the nightmare began in late 2023 when detectives launched a covert investigation into Brothers' parenting. The probe focused on unsubstantiated claims that she had left her son alone with a registered sex offender. Surveillance by two detectives on December 7, 2023, reportedly revealed no such contact, and a third detective's earlier findings corroborated that the allegations were 'unfounded' and 'inaccurate.' Officer Miranda L. Brothers, 29, with the Mantua Police Department has filed a bombshell lawsuit against the Portage County Sheriff's Office, alleging a chilling abuse of power Brothers claims she was wrongfully arrested with private, explicit photos from her phone were taken and passed around sheriff's staff Brothers also claims her five-year-old son was placed in foster care and charged with child endangerment But less than a month later, on January 1, 2024, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop, seizing Brothers' phone, her child's tablet, and removed her son from her custody. Brothers was charged with child endangerment the following day, with authorities alleging she allowed a sex offender to spend 'extended periods of time alone' with her child. Brothers' lawsuit paints a damning picture of what happened next. A forensic search of her devices yielded no evidence of criminal conduct - a fact detectives testified to in an April 2024 hearing. 'The testimony at the April 15, 2024 Motion Hearing verified that no detective had witnessed Juvenile A engage in unsupervised contact with a registered sex offender,' the complaint states. Despite this, prosecutors pressed forward, leaving Brothers suspended from her job and her son in foster care for months. The most incendiary claims in Brothers' suit, however, involve the sheriff's office's alleged mishandling of her seized cellphone. The officer accuses a detective, identified as 'John Doe,' of sharing explicit private photos of her with colleagues and potentially others outside the department. Brothers, a single mom, is now suing the sheriff's office for over $150,000 in punitive damages Brothers' lawsuit accuses the department of malicious prosecution, constitutional violations, intentional emotional distress, and grave misconduct. Brothers is seen at this year's toy drive The lawsuit against the Portage County Sheriff's Office alleged a chilling abuse of power (file) 'Despite knowing that the digital images were not relevant to any criminal charge, Detective John Doe shared and/or disseminated these digital images within the Portage County [Sheriff's] Office and potentially further,' the lawsuit states. Brothers' legal team described the conduct as 'so extreme and outrageous' that it 'went beyond all possible bounds of decency.' Her attorney, Eric Fink, did not hold back in his condemnation. Speaking to WOIO, he described the allegations as an unprecedented abuse of trust. 'They went through [the phone], found no evidence of wrongdoing, and then shared private, explicit photos entirely unrelated to the investigation,' he said. When asked if the photos were explicit, Fink confirmed they were. Brothers claims there is a complete lack of evidence to support the allegations against her Brothers' complaint goes into some detail as it describes the emotional toll of her experience together with the humiliation and devastation at losing custody of her son According to the suit, the nightmare began in late 2023 when detectives launched a covert investigation into Brothers' parenting. The charges were finally dropped in July 2024 The Portage County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pictured, Portage County Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski The charges against Brothers were finally dropped in July 2024, and she has since returned to duty but her attorney says the ordeal has left lasting scars. 'We are still trying to understand why this investigation was even opened,' Fink said, adding that Brothers had left her son with a babysitter - a trusted off-duty police dispatcher - on the day in question. Brothers' complaint goes into some detail as it describes the emotional toll of her experience together with the humiliation and devastation at losing custody of her son and having her personal images shared by those sworn to uphold the law. The case is heading to court with the Portage County Sheriff's Office yet to comment on the allegations. Brothers appears to be a popular member of the Mantua Police Department appearing in several of the Department's photos on social media. As an active member of the town she can be seen pictured at community toy drives this Christmas and having fun with children during Halloween handing out candy. In photos from her own social media, Brothers can be seen supporting her five-year-old boy at sporting events while also taking him to see professional games. January 7, 2025: At the end of 2024 China launched the first of a new class of 41,000-ton Type 076 LHD amphibious assault ships. These are larger than the previous Type 075 LHDs, and the first satellite photos misidentified this large LHD as a drone aircraft carrier. The flight deck of the 076 had a catapult and their elevators for drones and helicopters, rather than larger manned aircraft. When more was revealed by the Chinese it turned out the 076 was a drone carrier, the first ever. But the 076 is also an amphibious assault ship that can carry 1,200 combat troops and several dozen trucks and combat vehicles. The troops are put ashore with two dozen helicopters while two aircushion vessels bring the vehicles ashore. These LHDs are 259 meters long and 50 meters wide and are defended by three 30mm autocannon CIWS systems and three HHQ-10 SAM launchers with missiles ready for launch in storage/launch tubes. The first Chinese LDS were the Type 075. In early 2025 China put into service the fourth of eight 37,000-ton Type 075 LHDs that can use helicopters to get troops ashore. The first two were launched in September 2019 and April 2020. Both of these are now undergoing sea trials. Construction on the first LHD began in 2011 and was in sea trials by August 2020. Sea trials on the first of a class typically take longer because it is a new design and makes several trips to the shipyard for modifications before the first in class enters service. The first LHD entered service in 2021, the second and third in 2002. The forth is nearing completion. As more are built the basic design is modified based on the experience of earlier ships and the availability of new technology. The Chinese LHD is 237m long and 35m wide. Air defense consists of two 30mm CIWS Close in Weapons Systems and two HQ-10 SAM Surface to Air Missile launchers. There is a crew of 1,100 sailors and capacity for carrying up to 1,200 troops who are put ashore using about 20 transport helicopters and a few landing craft. There is a well dock in the rear for loading Type 726 air-cushioned landing craft as well as conventional landing craft. The vehicle deck carries an undetermined number of trucks, ZBD05 amphibious Infantry Fighting Vehicles and ZTD05 amphibious light tanks. Vehicles can also be driven on or off the LHDs via ramps, like a Roll On Roll Off or RORO vehicle transport. This ship is designed to carry 30 helicopters of various types. China does not have any heavy lift helicopters or tilt wing transports like those that operate off American amphibious ships. China also lacks VTOL/Vertical Take Off and Landing warplanes like the F-35B or the earlier Harrier. China is currently using the 13-ton Z-8 naval helicopter transport on amphibious ships. The Z-8 is based on the French Super Frelon. The Z-8 can carry 20 or more troops and also be armed with missiles, rockets and machine-guns. China has a growing number of helicopter gunships and these have been seen practicing operations from warships. China is also introducing a copy of the American 11-ton SH-60 naval helicopter. The Type 75 is similar to the eight American 41,000-ton LHD helicopter carriers that are capable of carrying up to twenty F-35B fighters. The design of these American mini carriers was influenced by the earlier eight Wasp class LHDs. The last of these amphibious assault ships, the Makin Island LHD-8 entered service in 2009 and was followed by two more that had some drastic modifications that led them to be designated LHAs because they were a bit larger at 45,000 tons and did not have the internal dock for landing craft. The additional space was devoted to more fuel, weapons storage and aircraft maintenance. The first of these ships, LHA-6 entered service in 2014, the second one in mid-2020 and the third of 11 began construction in 2019. The LPDs tend to carry twelve 21-ton V-22s tilt-rotors aircraft, eight AH-1 helicopter gunships, ten F-35B Vertical Take Off and Land or VTOL stealth fighters, four 33-ton CH-53K, and 4 Navy CH-60 helicopters. In both cases, actual air combat elements, the term for the reinforced combat aircraft deployed on these vessels, may vary depending on the mission. The LHA-6 is being built with these new VTOL aircraft, tiltrotors, and helicopters in mind. Meanwhile, China was scaling up. As of early 2021 they have six Type 071 class amphibious ships in service. The first one arrived for duty in 2007 and by the time the second one entered service in 2011 the Chinese apparently realized they would need more than the four they originally planned to build. Meanwhile, China is also expanding its marine infantry force from three to seven brigades. As of 2020 six brigades, each with over 5,000 troops, were in service. The 071s are Landing Ship Dock or LPD type vessels and were the largest ships in the Chinese Navy until the first aircraft carrier entered service in 2013. But while Chinese aircraft carriers are still a work in progress, work was quickly found for the LPDs right away. This makes Chinese neighbors uncomfortable. These LPDs are 210m long, 25,000-ton amphibious ships with a flight deck for up to four helicopters and a flooded well in the rear for landing craft. It normally carries four hovercraft in the well and two smaller landing craft suspended on davits. The ship can carry up to 800 troops and up to 20 armored vehicles. Max speed is 46 kilometers an hour with cruising speed 33 kilometers an hour. At that speed, a Type 071 can stay at sea for up to 60 days. The 071 class ships are similar to the American 25,000-ton San Antonio class and the French 21,500-ton Mistral class. The 071s have the smallest crew at 120 compared to 180 in the Mistral and 396 for the San Antonio. Type 071 armament consists of a 76mm gun, four 30mm anti-missile autocannon, and four 18 tube decoy/chaff dispensers for anti-missile work. Each 071 is believed to cost about $300 million, less than half what a San Antonio or Mistral cost. The Type 75s appear to have the same four 30mm autocannon plus two HHQ-10 anti-aircraft missile launchers. These have a range of about six kilometers. The 071s had some interesting adventures early on. In 2010 China sent the first one, the Kunlan Shan to join the anti-piracy patrol off Somalia. The Kunlan Shan went to Somalia without a lot of troops or any armored vehicles. But there were two Z-8 helicopters on board, each capable of carrying up to twenty troops, and the landing craft could be used to go after pirates. Some naval commandos were probably on board as these troops have been seen, several times, practicing landing on cargo ships via helicopter or small boats. The Kunlan Shan was the largest Chinese warship to be sent on anti-piracy duty. The previous five rotations, each four months long, only included frigates and destroyers. The appearance of the second LPD in the South China Sea made Vietnam and the Philippines nervous that China might be ready to seize possession of some uninhabited islands that all these nations claim. The Chinese also found the LPD useful not just for handling the situation in the South China Sea, but also for disaster relief missions. These proved very popular with the distressed locals and Chinese diplomats. Now that it is clear that China will soon have eight LPDs plus eleven of the larger Type 75s. These ships will be crucial in establishing and supplying small outposts in the South China Sea and elsewhere off the Chinese coast where there are more disputed islands. The recent appearance of 071s in the Indian Ocean indicates Chinese amphibious ambitions have a very long reach indeed. When not being the intimidator, the 071s stand ready to help out in natural disasters in the region. In both cases the 071s show countries in the region that China now has a large fleet and can be your friend or the neighbor who quickly and unexpectedly invades you from the sea. The Chinese Navy has been seen exercising with LHDs with civilian ferries and Roll On/Roll Off or Ro/Ro ships. Construction of these ships was subsidized by the government with the understanding that these vessels were not part of the navy reserve fleet of support ships, which includes cargo and troops and fuel transports. A father-of-three has died on his dream interstate holiday as his family fights to bring home his remains. Andrew Congdon, 30, was on a road trip around South Australia to visit the places he'd grown up in as a boy. He was due to fly back to his wife and children in Hillston, central west NSW, on New Year's Eve when tragedy struck and he died. Bella Page, who is a close family friend and Mr Congdon's neighbour of six years, told Daily Mail Australia Mr Congdon was a 'great father' with a number of passions. 'He loved working on cars. He was a car enthusiast. He loved fishing, being with family and friends,' she said. 'All around great guy.' The family have been left grieving the monumental loss, without the finances to bring his body home. Ms Page said the youngest of his children are 'struggling to cope'. Andrew Congdon, 30, was on a road trip around South Australia to visit the places he'd grown up in as a boy Bella Page, who is a close family friend and Mr Congdon's neighbour of six years, told Daily Mail Australia Mr Congdon was a 'great father' with a number of passions Ms Page has launched a GoFundMe to assist her best friend in bringing Mr Congdon's remains back to her family. She wrote her closest friend has had to take leave from work to support her 'devastated' children. 'Being a healthy 30 year old, he didn't have any funeral fund leaving this poor family not only heart broken but also with the devastating financial cost to give him the send off he deserves, not to mention the other costs during this difficult time,' she wrote. 'My closest friend never wanted a go fund me as she stated "I don't want hand outs" but unfortunately this tragedy has lead to extreme financial distress. 'I'm reaching out to the public to please help a grieving young family bring their father back home.' Lifeline: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 As Kamala Harris was forced to declare Donald Trump the winner of the 2024 election she put on a pleasant facade to hide her 'anger' and 'indignation.' The awkward moment for Harris came Monday afternoon as she was tasked with certifying the results of an election she lost to a candidate she has repeatedly labeled a 'fascist' and 'wannabe dictator.' Taking the rostrum in the House of Representatives before all the members of Congress, the vice president cracked half-hearted smiles as she confirmed Trump's victory to loud applause from Republicans. It also signified her final defeat after an expedited presidential campaign. Though Harris appeared placid and at times chipper throughout the joint session of Congress, she also seemed to bristle at times during the ceremony. Her under-the-surface animosity towards Trump, despite being tamed at first, bubbled to the top more obviously than her previous primetime moments, body language expert Judi James exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com after analyzing the vice president's demeanor. 'Even Harriss concession speech was delivered with the body language rituals of victory,' James said. 'Straight after Trumps win she appeared giggling, chuckling and throwing wide smiles as she pointed at the crowd and patted her chest like the victor enjoying her moment of glory, looking determined to mask any sense of defeat.' Vice President Kamala Harris speaks to Speaker of the House Mike Johnson during a joint session of Congress to certify Donald Trump's election, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. January 6, 2025. During the event Harris tried to hide her discomfort with the election results, a body language expert revealed to DailyMail.com Harris puckered her lips and bristled when reading out Trump's vote total James continued: 'Certifying the electoral votes today though, her non-verbal display suggested the adrenalin has subsided, leaving a very different set of emotional responses in its wake, like anger, indignation and a possible sense of unfairness.' Harris' rueful smile first disappeared when taking the steps up to the rostrum where Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson greeted her. 'She made heavy going of the stairs to the stage and, with her signature gurgling smile missing, she seemed to be physically bracing herself,' the body language expert explained. 'Her cheeks were rounded as usual but her lips were now closed.' Harris even appeared listless when first taking her place before the many lawmakers. 'Her greeting ritual involved a friendly smile but then her lips began to purse and she did what actors call a bit of business with the water glass, removing the lid and moving to pick it up before changing her mind and pushing it away,' James said. 'The use of props like this can deflect attention for a moment to help avoid looking straight out at the audience.' But the real details signaling the vice president's discomfort came when she had to deliver her lines certifying Trump's victory. Donald Trump points to the camera at his election night victory party A joint session of Congress convened to confirm the Electoral College votes James told DailyMail.com that Harris started strong, but soon she floundered and her face and posture gave insights into the feelings she was trying to conceal. 'When Harris began to speak she clasped her hands with her elbows held out in a gesture of authority. Those elbows also produced a subtle tell or cue to her inner feelings though.' 'They began to pump in and out against her sides to suggest a sense of indignation while her jaw jut added to the impression of inner anger.' When the vice president delivered the line recounting Trump's winning 312 votes, that's when her indignation began shining through her otherwise normal behavior. '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. Vice President Kamala Harris talks to reporters after a joint session of Congress Republican lawmakers erupted in a loud, triumphant roar after this pronouncement. 'Her body bristling continued as she read out Trumps 312 votes and her lips puckered at the cheers and standing ovation,' the expert said. After the room quieted down she announced her own election results. 'Kamala Harris of the state of California received 226 votes,' she continued, this time Democrats standing and cheering her on. James said Harris had already lost her veneer of defiance, though. 'She got a similar response when she read out her own 226 votes but instead of crowd-surfing by grinning and acknowledgement rituals she looked down in a cut-off gesture as she moved some papers about,' the body language analyst surmised. A British holidaymaker who lived '10 times beyond his wildest imagination' was killed in a motorbike crash while on holiday in Thailand. Corey Beavis, 28, died on Saturday following the smash and his brother Liam said they spent every possible second of their lives together. His family is hoping to raise 35,000 to repatriate his body back to the UK - and well-wishers donated more than 10,000 in less than 24 hours. Liam said he had shared 'every single good memory I have in life with my brother, my best friend and my number one partner in crime'. Twin Liam said he and Corey, of Barry, South Wales, had 'lived life to the fullest and I'm glad we did it together'. 'I will struggle to find a way to deal with this pain for the rest of my life, but I promise I will make you really proud,' he said. 'Rest easy big man, see you on the other side. From the womb to the world. 'Now I'll take him on my journey whilst he's watching over me, absolutely smashing it for him like he'd want me to. This has changed me forever.' Corey Beavis, 28, (pictured, left) died on Saturday following the crash and his brother Liam (pictured, right) said they spent every possible second of their lives together Liam said he had shared 'every single good memory I have in life with my brother, my best friend and my number one partner in crime ' Corey did not have travel or life insurance and hundreds of people have donated to the fundraising site to help pay the 'unimaginable' costs. A tribute from his family said: 'On Saturday morning 04/01/25, we received the devastating news that our beautiful boy lost his life following a motorcycle accident. 'Corey lit up any room he walked into, with his larger than life character and his infectious laugh. 'He had so much left to give this world, but also lived a life 10x beyond his wildest imagination. He was a real genuine person with nothing but love for the people around him. 'As a family we've suffered immeasurable loss, and now have to face the realities of repatriation and laying our beautiful boy to rest - having not had travel and life insurance policies in place, the significant costs surrounding this are unimaginable. Reports from Thailand suggest Corey wasn't wearing a helmet and was riding a rented motorcycle when the crash happened in Phuket. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said it was supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand. A dispute over black market tobacco has led to a man allegedly having his toe cut off in a Sydney warehouse. Eight men allegedly fled the warehouse in the western suburb of Condell Park on Saturday night after a confrontation involving two groups. The group had allegedly broken into the storage unit in an effort to steal a supply of tobacco but a confrontation erupted when the owners of the unit turned up, reports The Daily Telegraph. Police later arrested two men Ahamad Dudu, 26, and Mohamad Kaddour, 24. Dudu unsuccessfully applied for bail in Bankstown Local Court on Monday. The court was told the break-in to the warehouse set off an alarm and led three men to turn up to investigate and they were then set upon by the group of eight intruders. They were allegedly threatened with weapons, tied up, bashed and one of the men had his toe 'partially severed' in the attack which lasted up to half an hour. Police officers arrived during the alleged attack and caused the intruders to flee with the two arrested men allegedly found with gloves and face coverings. A group of eight men allegedly broke into a Condell Park warehouse unit business (pictured) to steal tobacco but a confrontation erupted when the owners turned up His defence lawyer argued it would be difficult to prove his client, a father to a young child, was involved in a joint criminal enterprise with the other intruders. But Magistrate Glenn Walsh said his purported family obligations had not prevented him 'being out and about at 9.30 on a Saturday night' and that the alleged incident was a 'well-known conflict'. Dudu and Kaddour were both charged with aggravated break and enter, and take/detain in company. Bail was refused for Dudu and he will next appear in court on March 5. Kaddour did not apply for bail and will appear in court on January 13. The government's sky-high taxes on cigarettes and ban on vapes had turned tobacco sales into a battle-ground for criminal syndicates selling untaxed illicit product, with associated violence particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. A Texas grandmother has been accused of poisoning her seven-year-old granddaughter by injecting Mean Green Degreaser into her feeding tube. Detectives claim Lisa Campbell-Goins, 56, was making the young girl sick in order to concoct an illness that required extensive medication and treatment, according to Big Country Homepage. Meanwhile, the grandmother was defrauding Medicaid and raking in hundreds, if not thousands, from Good Samaritans on GoFundMe. Police say she has taken care of the young girl since she was an infant, due to the fact that her biological mother was unable to care for her. Campbell-Goins claimed that the child fell at the age of seven months and hit her head, causing an alleged movement disorder called dystonia. But detectives later concluded the child only suffered minor injuries. Still, she was hospitalized 17 different times between January 2021 through her final stay at Cook Children's Medical Center in August 2023, when Campbell-Goins claimed she had severe dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea, according to Law & Crime. Doctors soon determined the victim suffered ulcers in her GI tract as well as damage to her colon and lower intestine, and ended up giving her a gastric tube to administer medication. Court documents obtained by KDFW also state that the grandmother pushed doctors to also feed her through the tube. But the medical professionals were left stumped as the 'illness presentation did not match a known medical diagnosis' and were not responding to treatment, forcing the girl to remain at the hospital for months, a police affidavit states. Lisa Campbell-Goins, 56, has been arrested for allegedly poisoning her seven-year-old granddaughter Police say she was making it seem that the young girl had an illness that required extensive medication and treatment By January 2024, another family member said she was concerned that the child's symptoms may have been caused by poison in the child's feeding tube. She expressed concern about a bottle of nail polish remover that was left near the child before she was hospitalized - and noted that Campbell-Goins did not have painted nails. Multiple family members also told detectives they saw the grandmother administering Benadryl and melatonin through the young girl's feeding tube, claiming Campbell-Goins had been giving her medications since she began caring for the child. As police began to investigate, they learned that Campbell-Goins did not actually have legal custody of the girl, and had her removed from the hospital. Ever since, the child has made major improvements in her behavior, her ability to move around and her ability to eat and drink by mouth, court documents state. The GI issues that Campbell-Goins originally brought her granddaughter to the hospital for also subsided, and the girl was taken off her myriad of medications. One of the girl's doctors later told police 'that once the suspect was removed from the hospital, the victim made almost immediate strides, was able to be weaned off of many psych drugs and stopped having unexplained diarrhea,' court documents state. Another reportedly 'stated that he could count on one hand the times he has seen a child as sick as the victim get better with the only thing done by medical professionals is ending interventions and decreasing care' and noted that abuse was suspected in all other cases. In the end, state doctors concluded that the child's symptoms could be explained by alkaline poisoning - which could have stemmed from the nail polish remover or bottles of Mean Green Degreaser found in the girl's hospital room. The young girl was hospitalized 17 different times between January 2021 through her final stay at Cook Children's Medical Center in August 2023 Court documents also claim Campbell-Goins insisted doctors at the hospital use an enclosed tent-style bed, which nurses claimed they saw the grandmother using 'as punishment' for behaviors she didn't like. The girl was in that bed on and off for days, weeks or even a month at a time between her admittance to the hospital in August 2023 and when police started their investigation in January 2024. She is now in the custody of her maternal grandmother, and court documents state that her feeding tube was removed, she gained weight and had her gastrostomy closed. The girl now takes food and medication by mouth with no issues, police said, and she is not presenting any abnormal behavioral issues. She is also in school for the first time, where court documents say she is excelling socially, but is being monitored to see if she is behind educationally due to a learning disorder or because she has not received any formal education before. Due to the drastic improvements, state doctors determined the child's disorders were 'consistent with fabricated illness' and the child is most likely the 'unfortunate victim of medical child abuse.' Police also say Campbell-Goins caused $600,000 worth of Medicaid fraud due to the unnecessary treatments and hospitalizations, as she collected money from online fundraisers. The child is now in the custody of her maternal grandmother, with police saying she has made major improvements in her behavior, her ability to move around and her ability to eat and drink by mouth But this is reportedly not the first time Campbell-Goins has done such a thing. Her stepson told investigators she falsified his symptoms when he was a teenager so he would be on higher ADHD medications and claimed she would give him some of his father's medication as well. '[The stepson] stated that he was on a multitude of different medications,' court documents said. '[He] stated that he knew he didn't need that many medications and was "to the point of hallucinating and seeing stuff."' Campbell-Goins was even under official Texas Department of Family and Protective Services investigation in 1999, when she was caught telling doctors her son vomited at the hospital even though he did not. Her then-husband also told police at the time he had come to believe Campbell-Goins was inducing illness in her son and overmedicating him. The investigation, however, ended when Campbell-Goins took parenting classes. She told police she was also tested for Munchausen by proxy at the time, but claimed she did not have it. The woman who has been alleged to have inspired the Baby Reindeer stalker Martha yesterday branded the Golden Globes 'a load of drivel' after the Netflix show's double-award win. Fiona Harvey, who is suing the streaming platform for more than 130million, slammed the glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles after Jessica Gunning won Best Supporting Actress in a TV series for her portrayal of Martha Scott. The show also won Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series beating Disclaimer, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, The Penguin, Ripley and True Detective: Night Country. Ms Harvey is claimed to be the inspiration behind Martha, who stalks Richard Gadd's character Donny Dunn after he serves her a free cup of tea in the pub where he works. The 59-year-old Scot told the Daily Record that she did not have a high opinion of Gadd or Gunning and said: 'It's a load of drivel. I've already put my life on hold for a year. I can't do that anymore. 'Baby Reindeer is a lie.' The show is said to be based on the real-life experiences of comedian and writer Gadd. After the show was aired, he asked viewers not to speculate over the real people who inspired the series. Ms Harvey filed a lawsuit in the US last June and has accused Netflix of spreading 'brutal lies', including that she is a 'twice-convicted stalker who was sentenced to five years in prison'. 'Real-life' Baby Reindeer stalker Fiona Harvey (pictured on Piers Morgan: Uncensored) has branded the Golden Globes 'a load of drivel' after the Netflix show's double award win Ms Harvey slammed the glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles after Jessica Gunning (pictured) won Best Supporting Actress in a TV series for her portrayal of Martha Scott Gunning, Richard Gadd, and Nava Mau, winners of the Best Television Limited Series for Baby Reindeer, during the Golden Globes held in Beverly Hills, California - January 5, 2025 She is claiming for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, gross negligence, and violations of her right of publicity. Speaking to BBC News last year, Ms Harvey said she was certain that Netflix would lose the case and added: 'I have no doubt about that. Otherwise, we wouldn't be doing it. We think we are going to win.' The lawsuit, filed at the Californian federal court, states: 'Defendants told these lies, and never stopped, because it was a better story than the truth, and better stories made money. 'As a result of defendants' lies, malfeasance and utterly reckless misconduct, Harvey's life had been ruined.' The court documents allege Netflix 'did literally nothing' to confirm that the story represented was true, stating that Harvey 'has never been convicted of any crime and has never been to prison'. The lawsuit seeks actual damages and compensatory damages at $50million (39 million) each; punitive damages at $20million (16 million); as well as 'all profits' from Baby Reindeer at $50 million (39 million). This totals 133million. Ms Harvey also claims that she is being bombarded with hate from around the world because of how Martha is portrayed in the Netflix hit. She asserts that she never stalked Gadd, did not sexually assault him, nor was she ever convicted of stalking. Ms Harvey alleges that Netflix led viewers to believe that fictional elements of the show were factual. Gadd appearing in Baby Reindeer as comedian Donny Dunn who is stalked by Martha Scott (Gunning) after he serves her a free cup of tea in the pub where he works Gadd, winner of the Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series for Baby Reindeer, poses during the Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California Gunning (pictured in the show) scooped the prize for Best Supporting Female Actor at the American award ceremony It was previously revealed exclusively in the Mail that the show's writer, Gadd, who plays himself and based the premise on his own experiences, told makers Clerkenwell Films that his stalker was never convicted. Sources indicate that Gadd told Clerkenwell that the stalker was the subject of an 'exclusion order' a civil order and not the same as a criminal conviction of stalking. This means that the show was always a fictionalized dramatization though it went out under a banner which read 'this is a true story'. Netflix executive, Benjamin King, previously told a Commons committee that Gadd had suffered at the hands of 'a convicted stalker'. It's not clear how Clerkenwell Films described the situation to Netflix, or what compliance procedures were undertaken. Gadd previously said Martha's identity was so well disguised that she would not recognize herself but internet sleuths swiftly identified Ms Harvey as Martha. In a previous interview, Gadd has said that the situation was 'resolved' but did not explain how. He added: 'It's very emotionally true. I was severely stalked and abused.' In an interview with Piers Morgan, Ms Harvey denied the stalking allegations though admitted she had met Gadd several times in Camden, north London. In response to the lawsuit, a statement from Netflix said: 'We intend to defend this matter vigorously and to stand by Richard Gadd's right to tell his story.' The trial is due to take place in California, in front of Judge Gary Klausner, in May 2025. A beloved teacher and her husband have been killed when their motorbike collided with a four-wheel drive in suburban Brisbane. Sandra Schuptar, 65, and her husband Peter, 63, were riding on a Honda Goldwing motorcycle when they collided with a Nissan Patrol at an intersection in the southwestern suburb of Logan at about 7.25pm on Sunday. Ms Schuptar taught at the nearby Mt Ommaney Special School. In a statement, the school said their community was left 'heartbroken beyond belief'. Mount Ommaney Special School deputy principal paid tribute to the pair. 'They have a way of making everybody feel comfortable, everybody feeling like they are special and worthy of their time,' she told The Courier Mail. 'They are so generous with their time and they're caring, they're so compassionate, they're very humble people but they give everything to others.' A parent at the school was left bereft by the 'devastating news'. Sandra Schuptar, 65, and her husband Peter, 63, were riding on a Honda Goldwing motorcycle when they collided with a Nissan Patrol at an intersection in Logan, south west of Brisbane , on Sunday around 7.25pm (the couple are pictured together) Ms Schuptar (pictured) was reportedly a much-loved teacher at the nearby Mt Ommaney Special School 'Sandra has been the most incredible support for our family over many years and I cant even being to imagine how we will start the new year without her beaming smile walking down the veranda,' they wrote on social media. 'She was an incredible gift to our community and will be so deeply missed.' Mr and Ms Schuptar were prominent figures in the local Jewish community, running a prayer group and organising trips to Israel. A Queensland Police spokeswoman said the pair were 'initially treated for serious injuries, but both declared deceased at the scene'. 'The driver of the Nissan, a 21-year-old Carbrook man, was not physically injured,' he added. Police called on any witnesses or those with dashcam footage of the incident to come forward. President-elect Donald Trump doubled down on his plot to buy Greenland in a Truth Social post Monday night. 'I am hearing that the people of Greenland are "MAGA,"' Trump claimed. He confirmed that his son, Donald Trump Jr., and others from the U.S. would be traveling to the island 'to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights.' 'Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation,' Trump said. 'We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' Trump also included a video that purported to show a man from Greenland wearing a Make America Great Again ballcap and saying that he liked the U.S. 'Buy us,' the man said. 'Buy Greenland,' he added, saying that 'Denmark is using us too much.' Trump Jr.'s trip is considered 'personal' in nature but it has big diplomatic overtones as his father has 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. President-elect Donald Trump doubled down on his plot to buy Greenland in a Truth Social post Monday night 'I am hearing that the people of Greenland are "MAGA,"' Trump claimed as he confirmed that his son, Donald Trump Jr., and others from the U.S. would be traveling to the island 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 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. Israel has accused Hamas of 'psychological terror' for naming dozens of hostages it said it is ready to release - despite not even confirming if they are alive. The terrorists leaked 34 names of captives to the press on Sunday and briefed that it was prepared to free them in exchange for a ceasefire in Gaza. It includes Emily Damari, the only British prisoner still held in the Strip, among 10 women as well as 11 men over 50 and 11 people designated as sick. But Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that this was in fact a list of people he had requested to be freed last July to which they have received no response. The document has caused huge distress to families of hostages whose names do not appear on it while the loved ones of those on it fear they are being manipulated by the extremists. Among the 34 are one-year-old Kfir Bibas and his brother Ariel, five, whom Hamas claimed had been killed a year ago. An official from the Prime Minister's office dismissed it as 'spin' to put pressure on Israel in negotiations and called on the media to ignore the 'propaganda and psychological terror'. 'They haven't said who is alive and who is not; they haven't sent any list,' they said. 'So, as far as we stand, there isn't any progress.' Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the names were a list of people he had requested to be freed last July to which they have received no response The list includes hostage Emily Damari, the only British prisoner still held in the Gaza Strip Hamas has released a sickening hostage video of Liri Albag who is still held in Gaza over 450 days since she was brutally kidnapped A Hamas source yesterday told Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat that Palestinian factions need another week to provide details on the condition of each hostage on the list. Previously the terrorists have requested a ceasefire just to allow them to check who is alive. The failure to give proof of life has proven one of the major sticking points in negotiations to date with fears Hamas have lost track of many of the captives. But mediators are keen to build on the momentum with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken hoping to finally get a deal done before Donald Trump takes office on January 20. 'We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining,' he told a press conference in South Korea yesterday (Mon). While nearly 100 hostages remain in Gaza, of which over half are hoped to be alive, Israel suggested a partial release of 40 last summer as the first phase of a ceasefire. Since then five on that list were executed by Hamas - Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Almog Sarsuri, Eden Yerushalmi, Carmel Gat and Avraham Munder. Meanwhile one, Kaid Farhan al-Qadi, was rescued by the IDF. Mediators had pushed for an initial partial release as a bridging proposal given Hamas demands a total withdrawal before freeing every hostage while Israel will not pull out until all captives are freed. It is the first stage a of three-phase agreement that would end with a total ceasefire and IDF withdrawal. Smoke rising from Sterod, Gaza following and Israeli bombardment on January 5 A man searches for his belongings amid the debris of a destroyed building following an Israeli air strike in Gaza on January 6 But yesterday the hostage forum, which represents the families of those taken, said the list had left them 'deeply shaken and distressed'. A spokesman said: 'The time has come for a comprehensive agreement that will bring back all hostages.' It comes as the UN World Food Programme said yesterday that Israeli forces opened fire on its convoy in Gaza on Sunday in a 'horrifying' attack. Three vehicles carrying eight staff members were struck by 16 bullets near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint, causing no injuries. Meanwhile three Israelis were shot dead in the West Bank and seven others injured yesterday. An arrest has been made in the case of missing teen Emmarae Gervasi who was found alive on a boat after '26 days of hell.' Francis Buckheit, 65, was arrested on charges of rape and kidnapping in connection to Emmarae's case, his defense attorney Danielle Marie Papa confirmed, according to Patch. The 14-year-old was located on Friday afternoon by her father Frank Gervasi aboard a large boat just off Main Street in Islip, Long Island, after he received an anonymous tip about her whereabouts. The teen, from East Patchogue in Suffolk County, had been missing since December 9 after she went to retrieve some items from a Jeep outside her home on Tyrrell Street. 'I did find her myself before police got there. It was the end of 26 days of hell seeing her alive in my arms. It was a gift from God. I can't describe the feeling I had when I grabbed her,' Frank told News 12. On Monday, Buckheit entered a not guilty plea to charges of rape, kidnapping, and acting in a manner injurious to a child at First District Court in Central Islip, court records show. His arrest day is listed as January 3 - the same day Emmarae was discovered. Buckheit is being held without bail and is due back in court Thursday morning, records reveal. After being found safe, Emmarae is now recovering in the hospital and the case remains an active investigation. Francis Buckheit, 65, was arrested and charged in connection to the disappearance of Emmarae Gervasi, 14, who was found on Friday on a boat in Islip, Long Island She was located by her father Frank Gervasi aboard a large boat just off Main Street after he received an anonymous tip about her whereabouts following '26 days of hell' Her family had been worried sick after her sudden vanishing, as Frank previously told DailyMail.com that prior to her coming home, the last time he spoke to his daughter she asked him what he was making for dinner. While outside of her family home to retrieve something from a car, she was seen getting into a dark-colored vehicle without any coat or shoes. Security cameras captured her knocking on doors at a Bohemia motel the next day, but then she disappeared once again. Throughout the past few weeks Frank said he had been following up on some leads and working closely with the Suffolk County Police Department. Less than 24 hours after she disappeared, he said he got a tip that she was walking aimlessly along a long stretch of road in Bohemia until, he said, 'she completely vanished without a trace.' 'I fear that she is being held against her will. I know she is with somebody and they are either convincing her to stay or wont let her leave or worse she may be dead by now.' On Monday, Buckheit entered a not guilty plea to charges of rape, kidnapping, and acting in a manor injurious to a child at First District Court in Central Islip, court records show He added: 'I won't stop looking until I find her.' Friends and family joined in on the search, alongside community members, to look for Emmarae. A search was also conducted in upstate New York using police cadaver dogs and helicopters but thankfully no body was found. Frank himself pleaded on social media for news and looked into leads into his daughter's disappearance himself, driving around on Long Island. In a video posted to Facebook on Saturday morning, Frank gave thanks to all those who helped in the search for his girl. 'She is home. She is in a facility and getting the help she needs and is safe,' he said, sounding relieved. 'I'd like to thank the community for all the support you gave us. Posting all the videos, pushing all the content, Handing out flyers, donating your time to look for my missing girl. It is those things that are going to help bring other kids home. 'I got an anonymous tip yesterday, and I want to thank that person for coming forward and giving me information about my daughter. The phone call that I received was that she was on a boat in Islip. I followed it up on my own and I went down there to check. Her family had been worried sick after her sudden vanishing on December 9, as Frank (pictured) previously told DailyMail.com the last time he spoke to his daughter she asked him what he was making for dinner After being found safe, Emmarae is now recovering in the hospital and the case remains an active investigation 'I bust into the boat and recovered my daughter. She has been saved and is alive. I believe it was persistency that helped bring her home,' Frank said. The worried father went on to tell New 12 how he believes Emmarae went off with someone she knew but then became afraid to come back home 'because of the consequences.' He also believes that she was picked up by a random man who took her to a trailer park before being transferred to the boat where she was held. Emmarae's mother Melissa Dervay said a weight was 'lifted off my body' when the intense search ended. 'The moment I heard her voice and knew she was OK, I felt a weight lifted off my body,' Dervay told Greater Long Island. The worried father believes Emmarae went off with someone she knew but then became afraid to come back home 'because of the consequences' 'I've been so tense for the past four weeks, quietly fighting a battle. Now, I'm elated. I feel light, and I just want to scream, 'She's OK. She's been found.' While she was missing, Frank said he started to get strange phone calls from unknown numbers, and that the voice on the other end sounded like his daughter. 'She said "I love you" and I said "Emma?",' he explained - but the line quickly went dead and he was unable to trace the number. He even put up a $10,000 reward for anyone who could help him bring his daughter home. The Suffolk County Police Department has since impounded the large boat from the dock as evidence. DailyMail.com contacted the Suffolk County Police Department and the District Attorney's Office for comment. January 7, 2025: North Korea continues to be a threat over 70 years since the Korean War ended. In 1953 the Korean war stopped. An armistice was signed and prisoners of war were exchanged, but troops remained lined up along a four kilometers wide DMZ/DeMilitarized Zone that stretched from coast to coast. There was a ceasefire agreement, not an end to the war. All attempts at negotiating an end to the war in the last half century have failed. The three years of fighting caused 325,000 American casualties, including 33,651 dead. South Korean troops suffered 415,000 killed, while other nations fighting North Korea suffered 15,000 casualties. The communist forces suffered 1.5 million killed, most of them Chinese because North Korea would have lost without massive reinforcements from China. There were several million civilian dead. After the war, North Korea experienced a period of economic growth as its industrial facilities were rebuilt with Russian aid. From 1904 to 1945, Korea was a Japanese colony, and the north had mines, railroads and factories built by the Japanese. The south, which always had more farmland and was turned into a largely agricultural area to help feed Japan. During the Korean war, industrial and transportation facilities were heavily damaged, and reconstruction was slower in the south. In the 1970s, foreign investment in the south began to grow, and local entrepreneurs began to start, or expand their businesses. By the 1980s, North Korea's centrally planned economy was falling apart because so much money was diverted to military spending, and lack of marketing resulted in products that could only be sold to other communist nations. When the Soviet empire fell apart in 1991, the markets for most North Korean goods disappeared. Corruption and lack of investment in agriculture resulted in food shortages, as well as the collapse of most industrial enterprises, except those that made weapons. Food aid from the Soviet Union ceased and that led to widespread hunger in North Korea during the 1990s when several million civilians starved to death. Post-1991 documents from the Russian archives showed that Stalin appointed Kim Il Sung as ruler of North Korea and in 1950 ordered him to invade South Korea and unite Korea. When that did not work, Russia ordered China to rescue the North Koreans. China complied and told Russia that the Chinese debt was paid to Russia for assistance in the 1949 Chinese Communist Party victory during the 22 year long civil war. In 2010, an article appeared in a Chinese magazine describing the beginning of the Korean War in 1950. What was unusual about the article, in a government approved publication, was the frank admission that North Korea had started it all, by invading South Korea. But once news of the article spread, and was posted on Internet sites, the Chinese government ordered the article withdrawn and denounced it as untrue. The unofficial reason was that China wished to avoid angering North Korea. This, despite the fact that Chinese participation in the war killed or wounded over a million Chinese soldiers. Even Chinese leader Mao Zedong lost a son in Korea. Since 1950, it had been the official Chinese position that the war started with a South Korean invasion of the north, to which the north responded by moving into South Korea. For decades, all communist nations accepted this version, even though all evidence pointed towards the north invading first. Then, in the 1990s, the Russian government released telegrams sent before 1960, by Russian and North Korean leaders, making it clear that Russia wanted the invasion, and that North Korea duly carried it out. Chinese troops entered North Korea in late 1950, to prevent American forces from occupying all of Korea, and that resulted in a two year stalemate along the current inter-Korean border which is now the DMZ Demilitarized Zone. To justify the Chinese losses, and maintain good relations with North Korea, China continued to insist that South Korea had started the war, even after everyone agreed that Russian leader Josef Stalin and North Korea had been the instigators. What this incident really tells North Korea is that China has admitted the truth about who started the war by authorizing the article's publication in the first place but is so sorry for this accident and officially sticks by the earlier lie. The Korean War lies and deceptions linger longer because China and North Korea want it that way. UK-bound Aussies will need to register and pay for a new digital pre-travel screening document before getting on the plane from tomorrow. The UK government has added Australia to the list of countries required to have a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The ETA is not a visa, but a digital permission slip to travel to the UK for visitors who previously did not require a visa. It had previously only been required for travellers arriving from several Middle Eastern countries. The measure has been expanded to other countries including Australia, New Zealand, the US, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Canada, Norway and Mexico. Aussie travellers will need to apply on the UK Government website or the UK ETA mobile app, available on Apple and Android smartphones. The fee is 10 (approximately AUD$20) and the ETA will be valid for two years or until passport expiration. The ETA will be needed for Aussie travellers arriving in the UK from January 8. The UK government has added Australia to the list of countries required to have a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) (stock image) An ETA allows multiple journeys to the UK and permits stays of up to six months per trip over two years or until the holder's passport expires. The ETA must be approved before boarding a flight to the UK, and most applicants receive a response within three working days. The requirements for an ETA are a valid Australian passport, digital photo, and a credit or debit card for payment. Applicants will also need to answer a set of personal questions. Australians with dual British or Irish citizenship don't need an ETA if they are travelling using their British passport, Irish passport or other passport that contains a certificate of entitlement. The Papua New Guinea government has condemned 'horrific acts of cannibalism' in the country, sparked by disturbing images of a group of warriors preparing to eat human body parts. A video shot in the remote jungle highlands of Australia's neighbour show a tribal warrior 'licking' a severed human foot while another holds up an amputated hand. The footage shows a group of men armed with bows, arrows and machetes while holding human body parts. One of them smiled at the camera as he held the foot to his mouth and said: 'We are the mafia. We have cut him.' According to the local media reports, one of the men said: 'This is our meat. We will cook it and eat it.' In one photo a man holds up a bloodied body part while another licks his lips. Images images from the grisly video were published on January 6 on the front page of PNG's Post Courier newspaper. The video shows a group of men armed with bows, arrows and machetes holding chopped body parts and one of them smiling as he holds the foot to his mouth and says 'we are the mafia, we have cut him' According to the local media reports, one of the men said: 'This is our meat. We will cook it and eat it' The video was filmed about a month ago in Saki Village, Goilala District in PNG's Central Province north of the national capital Port Moresby after a fight between two brothers turned fatal The video was filmed about a month ago in Saki Village, Goilala District in PNG's Central Province north of the national capital Port Moresby, after a fight between two brothers turned fatal. The younger brother allegedly killed his older sibling and the violence escalated, leaving seven dead and some mutilated. Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili said he was deeply troubled by images that appeared to depict 'horrific acts of cannibalism'. 'Such barbarity does not define us as a people or a nation,' he told AFP. '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.' Police have now travelled to Goilala, where communities are clustered around an alluvial gold mining camp and was the scene of a catastrophic landslide five years ago which buried people alive. The President of the Papua New Guinea Law Society Hubert Namani slammed the barbarity after seeing the horrific footage. 'I condemn the horrific acts of violence, mutilation, and cannibalism circulating on social media,' he said. These acts of inhumanity are a stark reminder of the nation's law and order situation requires immediate attention.' Goilala, where communities are clustered around an alluvial gold mining camp is north of Port Moresby in remote jungle which was the scene of a catastrophic landslide five years ago which buried people alive PNG Law Society president Hubert Namani expressed his horror at the incident in a media release In response to the Hubert Namani's statement about the latest incident, the PNG member for the Goilali region has hit back saying it discredits PNG and his community (above) Historically, cannibalism has been documented among a small number of tribes in remote parts of Papua New Guinea. One group, the Fore people, practised cannibalism at ceremonies in the 19th century and up until the 1950s. Women cut up, cooked, and distributed body parts to female kinsfolk, who often shared it with their children. The brain was a special delicacy. But when Australian authorities took over administration of Papua New Guinea and one of their first acts was to forbid cannibalism. Subsequently, the open feasting on bodies dropped and the practice disappeared - publicly at least - by the early 1960s. US President Joe Biden made a gaffe in 2024 when he 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,' Mr Biden said. PNG Prime Minister James Marape later dismissed the comment as 'loose' talk on the part of the President. In response to the Hubert Namani's statement about the latest incident, the member for the Goilali region has hit back. Casmiro Aia called on Mr Namani to apologise to his community, saying he had misused the word 'cannibalism' to describe an unverified and isolated incident. He said the actual incident was just a violent altercation between brothers when one was killed and dismembered and to call it cannibalism discredited PNG. Two brothers have been charged over the alleged murder of Chloe Jade Mason, 23, who was shot dead in a Brisbane street three days before Christmas. Queensland homicide detectives, with the assistance of specialist units, arrested brothers Codye Thomson, 29, and Kaine Thomson-Gleeson, 32 on Monday. 'Investigators will allege a 29-year-old Marsden man and a 32-year-old Caboolture man shot the woman outside a Railway Parade address shortly after 12am (on December 22),' a spokesperson for Queensland Police said. They added: 'A 29-year-old Marsden man and a 32-year-old Caboolture man have both been charged with one count each of murder.' They are both due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Police said media and the public had assisted in locating the men. Chloe Jade Mason, known as CJ, was allegedly chased and shot outside a home at Caboolture in Brisbane's north. First responders found Ms Mason unconscious at the scene and she was unable to be revived. 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 Detectives believe Ms Mason was shot while being 'assaulted by two male persons' who had chased her down the street. 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. Anyone who travelled along Railway Parade between 11.40pm on December 21 to 12.15am on December 22 is urged to contact police. Det Insp Harbison said police did not believe the incident was a random attack, with the parties involved known to each other. 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 Daily Mail Australia previously revealed that Ms Mason was involved in a stabbing that almost claimed her life. '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.' Her former on-again, off-again boyfriend Kane Alexanderson, 18, was himself stabbed to death in 2020 during a knife fight. Hours after her death, Ms Mason's devastated sister launched a fundraiser to share a heartbreaking message. 'Being so close to Christmas her family has no savings or financial means to give her a funeral,' Hannah McKone posted on GoFundMe. 'We are graciously asking for help and support in this. All funds donated will be directly utilised for Chloe's funeral service.' 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 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.' Keir Starmer has insisted Tommy Robinson is a thug just days after he was accused of 'smear tactics' for his comments on the grooming gangs scandal. The Prime Minister wrote in a column that 'cheerleaders' for the English Defence League veteran were not interested in justice and had instead 'tried to rewrite history'. His commentary came after he had faced scathing criticism for suggesting those who wanted an inquiry into the grooming scandal were jumping on a far-Right bandwagon. Sir Keir triggered the furious backlash following his comment Tory demands for an inquiry into the instances of rape of scores of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were amplifying what the far-Right are saying. The Labour leader had 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. Ms Badenoch hit back, accusing the PM of applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago. Sir Keir has now doubled down on his position that 'action' is needed rather than another national inquiry and spoke of the 'ludicrous claims' that allege he is 'part of the problem'. Sir Keir Starmer triggered a backlash after he branded calls for a inquiry into grooming gangs as amplifying what the far-Right are saying Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said she would table a Commons amendment this week designed to force a vote on an inquiry into the scandal The Prime Minister said in his column for The Sun: '[The Conservative government] are demanding another national inquiry. Putting political posturing before child protection.' He later went on to say: 'We cant fix this problem until we have an accurate picture of who is involved. 'Police forces should be spotting patterns, targeting the gangs, bringing the abusers to justice and helping the victims.' Elsewhere he insisted his 'fight' to change the way the prosecution service operated was a 'matter of public record' and that he 'saw firsthand' how children were 'failed' when acting as the country's leading prosecutor. The prime minister added he had called in 2013 for a mandatory duty to report child sexual abuse and that the current government would not put this into law. He described how this would make it a criminal offence for anyone to willfully obstruct a sexual abuse investigation. And speaking of Robinson, he said: 'The poison being pumped out by the far right should not surprise anyone. 'Those spreading lies and misinformation are not interested in the victims. Speaking of Robinson, Sir Keir said: 'The poison being pumped out by the far right should not surprise anyone' 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 'Those cheerleading for Tommy Robinson a thug who was jailed for almost collapsing a grooming case are not interested in justice. 'They are only interested in themselves.' The comments come as Tory leader Ms Badenoch revealed she would table a Commons amendment this week designed to force a vote on the need for an inquiry. And they also follow former police detective Maggie Oliver, who helped blow the whistle on the scandal in Rochdale, saying she was incandescent with rage at the PMs previous 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. At the press conference in Epsom, the issue had 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. 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 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. 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. In his Sun column he admitted the grooming gangs were 'many of them Asian' and said 'we should stop at nothing to get to the truth'. The United States Congress has been branded a 'nursing home' after Nancy Pelosi was pictured using her walking frame to get around the floor. Heading into the 2025 session, the average age of Congress members is 79 days older than last session, at 58.9 years old. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, suffered a fall last month in Europe and underwent hip replacement surgery. She used a frame on Monday when she took part in a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election. But the striking image of that moment has sparked questions about whether people in their 80s should still be working in such crucial roles. 'Congress really has become a nursing home,' one social media user wrote. 'Term limits. That's what America demands,' another added. The criticism comes as 78-year-old Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House as the oldest person to be elected President. The striking image of that moment has sparked questions about whether people in their 80s should still be working in such crucial roles And President Joe Biden, 82, has been forced to swat away rumors about his cognitive decline throughout his presidency, particularly in the last 18 months. 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. 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. Delegate to the House Eleanor Norton is the oldest at 87-and-a-half years old Heading into the 2025 session, the average age of Congress members is 79 days older than in the past, at 58.9 years old Hal Rogers, House Appropriations Committee Chairman, is also 87 Who are the oldest members of Congress? 1. Eleanor Norton - 87 years old 2. Hal Rogers - 87 years old 3. Maxine Waters - 86 years old 4. Steny Hoyer - 85 years old 5. Nancy Pelosi - 84 years old Advertisement Biden allegedly leaned on a close circle of unelected advisers and officials who had been put into roles usually occupied by the president. While the image of Pelosi has sparked criticism, she is not the oldest serving member of Congress. Delegate to the House Eleanor Norton holds that title at 87-and-a-half years old. Hal Rogers is also 87, while Maxine Waters is 86. Steny Hoyer is 85, and Pelosi is 84, turning 85 in two months. Republican congresswoman Kay Granger was recently found in a dementia care facility after she vanished from work. A bombshell report in December revealed the 81-year-old Texas Representative, who hadn't cast a vote in the six months prior, was discovered at a memory care facility after reportedly being found wandering lost and confused through her neighborhood, according to an investigation by the Dallas Express. Granger, who wound up a nearly 30-year career in the House in January, was reportedly living in the $4,000-a-month nursing home for the past six months. Meghan McCain chimed in on X, writing: 'Don't tell me political media isn't a broken hellscape when a well known congresswoman can just go missing for six months and then show up in a dementia care facility. Like a congresswoman not showing up for 6 months wasn't noticed or worth writing about?!' Kay Granger, 81, who was set to wind up a nearly 30-year career in the House in January, was reportedly living in the $4,000-a-month nursing home for the past six months Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 82, has also faced intense scrutiny after several concerning public episodes where he appeared to freeze mid-sentence. To serve in the House, a member must be at least 25 years old, while the age restriction is set at older than 30 in the Senate. The retirement age in the United States is 65. Pelosi was an outspoken advocate in 2023 of Supreme Court term limits, arguing that they would help hold the powerful justices 'to account.' She has represented San Francisco in Congress for 37 years. Inquires into child sexual exploitation that have already taken place have either been too broad or only focused on specific places, the government was warned yesterday. There have already been several probes into abuse across the UK, including a seven-year long national inquiry led by Prof Alexis Jay which reported in 2022. At the local level, investigations into the systematic rape and sexual assault of girls and young women by organised grooming gangs have also taken place in Rotherham, Telford, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Oldham, Rochdale and Bristol. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham noted yesterday that a review into Greater Manchester Police which he launched in 2017 was still ongoing. Health Minister Andrew Gwynne told LBC yesterday: 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. But critics argue that the inquiries that have already taken place were not focused on grooming gangs themselves, but rather the institutional failures which enabled criminal behaviour. A public inquiry would ensure individuals can be called in to give evidence under oath. Prof Jays Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) released a report into organised networks, but only focused on six case study areas - Durham, Swansea, Warwickshire, St Helens, Tower Hamlets and Bristol. There have already been several probes into abuse across the UK, including a seven-year long national inquiry led by Prof Alexis (pictured) Jay which reported in 2022 Health Minister Andrew Gwynne (pictured) told LBC yesterday that there comes a point where we dont need more inquiries Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham (pictured) noted yesterday that a review into Greater Manchester Police which he launched in 2017 was still ongoing Other towns which have seen a grooming gang scandal have not had comprehensive inquiries. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philip told MPs yesterday: While the last government did initiate the IICSA inquiry under Prof Jay, that was mainly directed at other CSE issues and it only covered six of the towns involved in the gang rape scandal. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick said: Previous reviews have looked at specific places and elements of the scandal, but nothing has explored it in totality. 'Such grave state failure warrants the same form of national inquiry we have undertaken in the past. Nothing less is acceptable. Former Justice Minister Laura Farris last night said the IICSAs inquiry was very broad and did not focus on grooming gangs. One sex abuse survivor turned campaigner, Sammy Woodhouse, said Ms Jays report hardly touched child sexual exploitation. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick said previous reviews have looked at specific places and elements of the scandal, but they have not explored properly Ex-detective Maggie Oliver said previous inquiries have led absolutely nowhere and suggested those leading them have always wanted to cover up [and hide] the truth. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has said he would support a new national inquiry into grooming gangs, but only if the government deemed it necessary to launch one. He told BBC Radio 4s Today Programme: 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. 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. A Scottish man who served on the frontlines of Ukraine as a medic has been killed in action, his family said. Jordan Maclachlan, 26, volunteered to help forces after Russia invaded in February 2022. His family said that he died on Friday while on the frontlines. The heartbroken loved ones said in a statement: 'Jordan always believed that he was making a difference and we are all so proud of him helping others.' They said: 'We are waiting for further information from the Foreign Office as information is very limited. 'Jordan was a fun-loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and a friend to many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.' The family asked for privacy at a difficult time. An FCDO spokesperson said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Ukraine and are in contact with the local authorities.' Jordan Maclachlan (picture) volunteered to help Ukraine's forces after Russia invaded in February 2022 Dozens of British people have died while serving on the frontlines of Ukraine. In November, Callum Tindal-Draper, 22, from Gunnislake, Cornwall, was killed in action on while serving with the foreign volunteer platoon in the war against invading Russia. His family was told that Callum died while defending an observation point when it was targeted by Russian forces. Callum's father Steven Draper said he begged his 'brave' son not to travel to Ukraine. 'We begged and begged and begged him not to go,' his father told the BBC. 'But Callum said "dad, I'm not frightened of bullies and what's going on in Ukraine is awful and someone needs to stand up for these people".' In the same interview, his mother Caroline Tindal said she had visited Callum in September and he seemed as if he had found 'who he was meant to be'. 'It was such a transformation and he said to me "mum, coming out here was the best thing that ever happened to me",' Ms Tindal said. 'He found who he was meant to be, he became that person and he lived it.' Ms Tindal also posted a tribute to him to a group on Facebook. Smoke rises during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kherson, Ukraine July 26, 2024 She wrote: 'He fought till he could no longer hold them off any more and his platoon are calling him a "hero" and "As brave as they come". 'Twenty-two is a young age. But you lived and died following your heart, soul and morals.' Robert Mews said Mr Maclachlan was the most selfless man he knew and he was proud to be his uncle. Paying tribute on social media, Mr Mews said: We were told a few days ago that he was killed in action after a Russian advance took their position. He told us many times he was proud to be helping out there. He made so many friends out there and all have said what an amazing human being he was. He was unfortunately killed with his friend beside him and never thought to leave his position. Scottish Tory veterans spokesman Edward Mountain said: I have always applauded those who place themselves in harms way to protect our freedoms. 'In doing so, some sadly pay the ultimate price and my thoughts are with Jordan Maclachlans family and friends. Early trebuchets were built on site. As they grew increasingly large and powerful, wagons carrying sections of prefabricated trebuchets were brought to a siege and assembled in situ. A trebuchet was a medieval siege weapon, operated using a counterweight to propel a long arm, attached to a sling, which could hurl a projectile with great force and accuracy at enemy fortifications. Invented in China in around the fourth century BC, by the 12thcentury, improved counterweight trebuchets were in use in Europe. Historian Michael S. Fulton offered the best examination of the machines in his book Development Of Prefabricated Artillery During The Crusades (2015). He concluded that while smaller weapons were built on site, large trebuchets were not only assembled but also disassembled afterwards for transport so they could be reused at later sieges. Perhaps the largest and most famous trebuchet of them all was Edward Is Warwolf. In 1304, he ordered his engineers to build this great piece of artillery for the siege of Stirling Castle in Scotland. Assembled by five master carpenters and 49 labourers, the Warwolf could hurl rocks weighing as much as 300lb. Early trebuchets were brought on site. As they grew larger and more powerful, wagons carried prefabricated section to a siege and assembled in situ The Scots, watching the Warwolf being assembled, offered to surrender, but Edward reputedly refused to let anyone leave the castle until the great engine had bombarded it, which it did, successfully levelling the curtain wall. Jon Francis, Norwich, Norfolk QUESTION: What did the Keeper of the Kings Conscience do? The Keeper of the Kings Conscience was a role of the Lord Chancellor. Historically, the Lord Chancellor was head of the Chancery, a court of equity (using fairness to resolve disputes) that originated in medieval England. In its earliest form, those who were unable to obtain an adequate common law remedy (law derived from judicial decision), or felt they had been treated unfairly, could petition the King of England directly. Rather than making the judgment himself, he would refer the case to his Conscience, i.e. the Lord Chancellor. Up until the Reformation the Chancellors were almost always churchmen, versed in civil and canon law. The Chancellor could thus bring legal and spiritual judgment to bear upon the case.Afterwards, the Chancellors were usually trained lawyers used to the process of reasoning. Sarah Westwood, Birmingham QUESTION: Was Gustav Holst the first composer to write about the planets? Before Holst, there were works that explored celestial or planetary themes, though not in such a thorough or systematic manner as The Planets (1914-1917). Orlando di Lasso (c.1532-1594) was a Catholic composer born in Mons in the Habsburg Netherlands (modern-day Belgium). While many classical pieces explored celestrial or planetary themes before Holst (pictured), few were as thorough or systematic as The Planets One of the most prolific, versatile and universal composers of the Renaissance, Lasso wrote more than 2,000 songs in Latin, French, Italian and German. Among his works was In Me Transierunt Irae Tuae (Your Wrath Swept Over Me), which directly inspired the German mathematician Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) to write Harmonices Mundi (Harmonies Of The World). Tomorrow's questions Q: Has there ever been a report of a shark attack off the UK coastline? Mrs Glenda Hunt, Newcastle upon Tyne Q: Did US actor Joe Don Baker appear in a British feature film about defrosting a fridge? Vernon Ireland, Lancing, West Sussex Q: What is a frozen conflict? Simon Brown, Southampton Advertisement Harmonices Mundi captured the Pythagorean idea of planetary motion and the music of the spheres: the philosophical concept that celestial bodies such as the Sun, the Moon and the planets form music as they move through the solar system. Austrian composer Joseph Haydns great oratorio The Creation (1798) celebrated the formation of the Universe. Although the lyrics were based on the biblical books of Genesis and Psalms, and John Miltons Paradise Lost, Haydn was intensely interested in the astronomical discoveries of the day. He is believed to have read Immanuel Kants Universal Natural History And Theory Of The Heavens (1755), which introduced Nebular Theory, the idea that the planets coalesced from gas and dust orbiting the Sun. The theory, as refined by French mathematician Pierre-Simon Laplace in the 1790s, was popular in the intellectual salons of the era. Haydn also visited William Herschels astronomical observatory in Slough in June 1792. Peering through Herschels 40ft telescope may have provided the cosmic inspiration for The Representation of Chaos, the famous opening of The Creation. It brilliantly captures the formation of celestial spheres from chaos, and it is clear from Haydns sketches that he took unprecedented pains over this composition. Dr Ken Bristow, Glasgow This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Anthony Albanese has snapped at a reporter when pressed about his failed election promise that power bills would come down by $275 this year. When the reporter objected that Mr Albanese was not answering the question put to him the Prime Minister cut him off. 'I know that, but you get to do the questions and I get to do the answers,' he said during the press conference on Tuesday. 'That is the way it works.' The reporter originally asked if Mr Albanese would concede his 2022 election promise Australians would get a $275 reduction in energy bills by this year was not going to happen. Instead of answering the question, the Prime Minister responded by listing measures his government and Labor state governments had taken to alleviate the relentless price hikes since that time. 'One of the things that we did was have a $300 energy bill relief. The Queensland government under Steven Miles had $1,000 additional to that,' he said. 'That was opposed by the Coalition,' Mr Albanese said before the reporter interjected and got the curt reply. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was not pleased when a reporter pressed to answer a question on energy bills After silencing the reporter Mr Albanese continued. 'We have delivered that (energy bill relief),' he said. 'That was opposed. Energy prices would have been higher if Peter Dutton was in government.' Mr Albanese was in Queensland to promote his government's $7.2billion pledge to fix a 1,700km stretch of the Bruce Highway, which is one of Australia's deadliest roads. He showed little patience with another reporter who on Monday asked if the 'build back better' slogan used by the government about the highway was taken from US President Joe Biden's election campaign. 'You should be cautious about just reading out things that are sent from the LNP,' Mr Albanese replied. Mr Albanese is embarking on a pre-election multi-state blitz, which will also cover Western Australian and the Northern Territory in the upcoming week as well as a string of morning show appearances. It comes after Mr Albanese renewed calls for federal parliamentary terms to be extended from three years to four. A Roy Morgan poll on Tuesday showed the Albanese government is 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. A New Jersey man has been accused of fatally stabbing his fiance just one day after posting a video of him proposing. Jose Melo, 52, has been hit with first degree murder and unlawful possession of weapon charges in the stabbing death of 31-year-old Naket Jadix Trinidad Maldonado, the Union County Prosecutor's Office announced. Cops were called to the Melo's home in Elizabeth shortly after 9am last Monday and found Maldonado dead at the scene. A motive for the stabbing remains unclear, but it came just one day after Melo, a local DJ, posted a video showing him publicly proposing at Bamboleo Night Club, according to Fox 5. He could be seen getting down on one knee and telling Maldonado, 'Te amo,' which is Spanish for 'I love you,' as he opened a ring box. Maldonado appeared to be shocked by the proposal, with her mouth agape before she walked over and kissed Melo, who proceeded to put the ring on her finger. The couple then embraced, while the crowd cheered. The song Casata Conmigo (Marry Me) by Silvestre Dangond and Nicky Jam could also be heard playing in the background. Jose Melo, 52, has been hit with first degree murder and unlawful possession of weapon charges in the stabbing death of 31-year-old Naket Jadix Trinidad Maldonado. He is pictured in 2010, when he was forced to register as a sex offender The stabbing came just one day after Melo, a local DJ, posted a video showing him publicly proposing to Maldonado at Bamboleo Night Club 'I love you, baby,' Melo wrote on the Facebook post. He had previously been arrested in 2010, when he threatened a woman with a box cutter and sexually assaulted her, NJ 101.5 reports. Melo was then forced to register as a sex offender, and the New Jersey state sex offender registry lists him as a tier two offender, or a moderate risk. It is unclear how he met Maldonado and for how long they had been dating before he proposed, but an online fundraiser describes the victim as the mother of two daughters. 'Naky was senselessly taken from us on December 30,' her aunt wrote in the GoFundMe. 'This horrible act by someone she trusted left her two children without either parent and with very little options for the future.' The aunt also noted that Maldonado has no other family in New Jersey, and her relatives in Florida are 'doing all they can.' It is unclear how Melo met Maldonado and for how long they had been dating before he proposed Maldonado was the mother of two girls, who are now in the care of family members In an update on Thursday, the aunt thanked everyone for their support as she warned, 'Due to this being a homicide, things take MUCH longer than a regular death' to get information. She noted that Maldonado's daughters are 'safe and being taken care of by family, and permanent arrangements are being worked out.' Funerals will be held in both New Jersey and Florida, and Maldonado will be buried in her native Puerto Rico. As of Monday, the fundraiser netted more than $27,000, which will now be split between Maldonado's funeral costs and the care for her children. China issues trial code of practice for fully automated urban rail systems Global Times) 08:51, January 07, 2025 The Ministry of Transport on Monday released the trial code of practice for fully automated urban railway transportation systems to better guide their technological development. Based on existing regulations on automatic train operation (ATO) system for operations, passenger services, safety assessments, and technical standards for signaling and vehicles, the trial code of practice addresses functions and technological changes specific to fully automated systems. Since the launch of China's first domestically developed fully automated metro line in 2017, Beijing's Yanfang Line, 50 fully automated running lines have been opened and operated in 21 cities, with an operating mileage of about 1,480 kilometers. However, recent incidents have revealed weaknesses in cross-discipline coordination and safety management, highlighting the need for clearer technical standards and stronger safety measures to ensure the integration of operations and technology, according to the Ministry of Transport. The document specifies system integration requirements, detailing safety management and quality control across the system's lifecycle, including interface compatibility, safety checks, and quality control during design coordination, integrated testing, and trial operations. Localities are encouraged to explore obstacle detection, remote train control, and other autonomous driving technologies to enable unattended operations. They also set requirements for existing fully automated lines and those upgraded from non-automated systems that do not meet the code of practice. As fully automated systems continue to advance, train safety, comfort, and smooth operations will improve, offering passengers a better travel experience, Li Hongchang, a researcher at the Sustainable Transportation Innovation Center and professor at Beijing Jiaotong University, told the Global Times on Monday. "Computer-controlled trains reduce driver workload and labor costs. Higher automation minimizes human errors, making operations safer, more reliable, and time-efficient for passengers," Sun Zhang, a railway expert at Shanghai Tongji University, told the Global Times on Monday. The code set detailed standards for nationwide urban rail automation, ensuring regional consistency to enhance overall safety, Sun said. Li noted that the code also supports advancing technological innovation in fully automated lines, driving progress in areas such as obstacle detection and remote train control. However, higher automation requires greater investment. It's essential to balance automation, cost-effectiveness, and safety, Sun added. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) A bank customer has been outraged by a $7.50 charge to withdraw cash at an ATM in Queensland. A photo of the whopping fee at a NAB branch in Townsville was shared to social media on Sunday, prompting anger. 'That's criminal!' one person commented. 'I remember a few years ago the big banks promising to keep their ATMs fee free.' 'The banks are licensed thieves!' said another. 'Obscene. I got charged $3.90 last week and thought that was bad - yours takes the cake,' a third wrote. NAB Retail Executive North Queensland, Matt Penny, said on Wednesday the customer was using a travel card, hence the charge. 'Weve investigated it and the card used in the ATM was a prepaid Mastercard travel card, which does incur a fee.' The $7.50 fee at an NAB ATM in Townsville (pictured) was shared to social media on Sunday The Aussie who shared the image said they were not using a foreign card or credit card to withdraw the $100 from their account with Ubank, a subsidiary of NAB (pictured) The person who shared the image decided not to go through with the $100 withdrawal and went to a nearby shop instead, where the charge was a lesser $2.80. An NAB spokesperson said earlier this week that the fee was 'very odd' and neither NAB nor Ubank usually charge fees for that sort of transaction. It has grown increasingly difficult to find ATMs in Australia in recent years, let alone ATMs that don't charge a fee. In 2016, Commonwealth Bank led the sector in cutting their $2 fee for ATM withdrawals, but the banks then started cutting ATM numbers. The number of bank-owned ATMs has plummeted along with society's reliance on cash, with many replaced by third-party owned machines that charge about $3. Meanwhile, Bendigo Bank has quietly introduced a fee for customers wanting to withdraw money from branches. Australia's sixth-largest bank will now charge $2.50 for over-the-counter branch withdrawals. EXCLUSIVE An Australian woman accused of causing a drunken scene on a Jetstar flight is the daughter of the late Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos and a one-time Playboy model. Analisa Corr, 53, and her 45-year-old husband Jimmy Corr were hauled off a plane flying from Hobart to Sydney after allegedly creating a mid-air disturbance. The mother-of-one was raised in luxury in Sydney's eastern suburbs and describes herself as an interior designer with a sideline in 'boudoir' photography. Her half-brother Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr is the current president of the Philippines, who in the past has declined to acknowledge they have the same father. Ferdinand Marcos Sr was president of the Philippines from 1965 until he was deposed in 1986, and from 1972 to 1981 ruled the nation under martial law. Ms Corr's mother Evelin Hegyesi reportedly met Marcos Sr - then married to shoe-loving Imelda - when she was working as a model in Paris in 1970. Having given birth to Analisa in Sydney in 1971, mother and daughter lived in a Point Piper mansion apparently bought by Marcos Sr, who died in 1989 aged 72. Analisa Corr, an Australian woman accused of creating a drunken scene on a Jetstar flight is the daughter of the late Philippines dictator Ferdinand Marcos and a onetime Playboy model. She is pictured with husband Jimmy Corr at the Magic Millions polo on the Gold Coast in 2018 Analisa Corr, 53, and her 45-year-old husband Jimmy Corr were hauled off a plane flying from Hobart to Sydney after allegedly causing a mid-air disturbance on December 28. She is pictured with daughter Tahni Ms Corr has been married for a decade to former soldier Jimmy Corr, with whom she has recently been pictured on social media sailing around Indonesia on a yacht. The couple was allegedly intoxicated and drinking alcohol they had brought onto a plane on December 28. Ms Corr allegedly grabbed and shook another passenger while leaving a toilet during the flight. The couple was escorted off the flight by Australian Federal Police and taken to Mascot police station. They were subsequently charged with one count each of failing to comply with cabin crew's safety instructions and consuming alcohol not provided by the crew. Ms Corr was also charged with one count of common assault. Bail was granted on condition the pair live at an address in Sydney's eastern suburbs, surrender their passports, not enter any international departure point, or be intoxicated within an airport. Ms Corr and her husband faced Downing Centre Local Court on Monday, where they pleaded not guilty to all charges. The case was adjourned until Friday. Marcos Jr neither confirmed nor denied Ms Corr's parentage when asked about his half-sister in April 2011. 'We have been hearing those rumours for more than 20 years now,' the then-senator said at the time. Ms Corr has been married for a decade to former soldier Jimmy Corr, with whom she has recently been pictured on social media sailing around Indonesia on a yacht Ms Corr, a mother-of-one who was raised in luxury in Sydney's eastern suburbs, describes herself as an interior designer with a sideline in 'boudoir' photography. She is pictured Ms Corr's middle name, Josefa, is the first name of Marcos Sr's mother. Marcos Sr's comment came a month after Ms Corr claimed she had been removed from the short-lived Australian reality television show The Renovators after revealing the identity of her father. Ms Corr's mother, who was born in Germany, was just two when her Hungarian parents Anton and Theresa brought to her Australia in 1949. Ms Hegyesi was once photographed posing in a mink bikini and appeared in a 1969 Playboy spread called 'Girls of Australia'. A July 2004 newspaper report stated Ms Hegyesi avoided the spotlight but described her curvaceous daughter as 'exotic', 'vivacious' and 'flamboyant'. Ms Corr was previously in a relationship with Dean Fleming, heir to the supermarket empire and father to her daughter Tahni Hegyesi Fleming, who is now aged about 21. In May 2022, Sydney gossip columnist Andrew Hornery noted that Ms Corr, having 'managed to fly mostly under the radar for the past 51 years, ranks as one of this city's great social mysteries'. Ferdinand Marcus Sr was president of the Philippines from 1965 until he was deposed in 1986, and from 1972 to 1981 ruled the nation under martial law. He died in 1989 aged 72 Ms Corr is married to former soldier James Alexander 'Jimmy' Corr, with whom she has recently been pictured on social media sailing around Indonesia on a yacht. The couple is pictured Ms Corr's Gold Coast photography business specialises in 'boudoir' images and offers customers 'professional hair/makeup artist, champagne, touched up images and just a fabulous time all round!' 'As a professional portrait and intimate photographer I love to show the true beauty and spirit of everyday women,' Ms Corr states on her LinkedIn profile. In September last year Ms Corr posted an online tribute to her 'dearest friend', Sydney publicist Jai Evans, after he was found dead aged just 43 in his Darlinghurst apartment. 'If you knew him you will remember him as the life of the party, the energetic creative, vibrant and funny at all times,' she wrote. 'I'll miss our long D & Ms and our 2 crazy personalities going through this life together, helping each other yet happily and excitedly leading each other astray. 'I am truly stunned today and am very sad you have left us so soon. But I am glad that youve found a peaceful place you might have been looking for, I know you have and Ill see you there eventually. 'Keep the Champers on ice Jai-Jai, love you.' Oakland has been compared to a 'zombie apocalypse film' as the crime-ridden city has seen a recent up-tick in a horrifying trend where abandoned cars are left along the Union Pacific Railroad. A massive 'graveyard' of ditched vehicles, including GMC and Ford pickup trucks, cargo vans, sedans and Chevrolet Tahoes have consumed the area for years, but recently, the problem has only grown worse. The area has been plagued by illegal dumping, leading officials and angry residents to speak up about the issue, which they say depicts a set from a 'zombie apocalypse film,' the San Francisco Chronicle reported. On top of the growing trend, the city has been left in a transitional period as former disgraced Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled by voters in November. Nearly 65 percent of voters wished to oust Thao from her role, as they blamed her for the crime outbreak and decaying city. An equal number also chose to kick Alameda County District Attorney Pamela out of office as well. On Monday, an interim mayor, Kevin Jenkins, was selected to take Thao's empty spot until the special election is held in April. Despite the change in leadership, Oakland residents are determined to make the illegal dumping ground a high priority for the struggling city. Oakland officials, who have been trying to tackle the surging issue for some time now, told the outlet they don't have access to enough resources to fight the trend. Oakland has continued to be plagued by a 'graveyard' of abandoned cars left along the Union Pacific Railroad A massive 'graveyard' of ditched vehicles, including GMC and Ford pickup trucks, cargo vans, sedans and Chevrolet Tahoes have consumed the area for years, and has only gotten worse What's more is there is an issue with the location of the dumped cars, as it is technically owned by multiple parties - Union Pacific, Caltrans and Alameda County. Union Pacific said it previously cleaned up the area in November, and plans to clear the impacted spot out again next week, the Chronicle reported. Meg Siffring, a spokesperson for Union Pacific, told the outlet the company is currently 'working on a plan' with the county and city to clean up the cars. Meanwhile, the Oakland Police Department said they have towed stranded vehicles, arrested people and installed barriers to try to fight the rising trend. Despite the department's best efforts, the police union said they can't fully clear the slew of vehicles because towing abandoned cars in the city is a job for the transportation department. In March 2023, 13 people who work for the city's transportation department took over clearing the vehicles from the police, as 'technicians' towed cars. Two support staff and a supervisor were also present. Although they came in to help, Oakland Police Sgt. Tim Dolan said progress has decreased since the transportation department took over because of training requirements and a heavy workload. On top of the growing trend, the city has been left in a transitional period as former disgraced Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled by voters in November Despite the change in leadership, Oakland residents are determined to make the illegal dumping ground a high priority for the depleting city 'It's mind-boggling,' Dolan said. 'It's an ongoing issue. But it's just gotten out of control over the last few years.' The city previously implemented surveillance cameras in dumping hotspots in 2022 in a bid to catch those abandoning the cars and other items in the junkyards. A total of 457 incidents were caught on camera from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024, but only 59 were given citations, the outlet reported. The city was unable to issue more citations because 23 percent of the vehicles did not have license plates on them. Another 41 percent of all dumping encounters had 'ineligible' license plate information. As of last year, a license plate reader was installed, according to a 2024 city report, obtained by the outlet. Amidst the growing chaos of stranded vehicles in Oakland, the city has seen a bit of an improvement as recent data revealed that out of 5,000 requests made in the first quarter of the fiscal year, 1,200 vehicles were towed. Although those vehicles are slowly being cleared, vehicles in the city are being stolen at an alarming rate - nearly doubling in the past two years. While officials try to figure out their next move, discouraged residents have taken matters into their own hands. On Monday, an interim mayor, Kevin Jenkins, was selected to take Thao's empty spot until the special election is held in April One person who lives at the end of Bernhardt Drive, near the north side of the railroad tracks, put up a chain link fence over the summer to deter people from speeding down their block and driving stolen cars in the community. In May, another local, Ken Houston, told CBS News: 'It is getting worse day by day.' 'I mean you can talk to some of the neighbors on Edes and Cary. This is just one section,' he said, adding that many people are also intimidated by car thieves and feel 'hostage in their own home.' 'Neighbors are hostage in their own home because they are scared to report it because of retaliation,' Houston explained. 'One person said they told her "if you report me I'm going to burn down your house with your kids".' With a net worth of $45 million and a career spanning decades as one of the country's most prominent financial journalists, Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo knows a thing or two about wealth creation. On a recent episode of her Fox Business show, Bartiromo shared what she believes is the single most important rule for becoming a millionaire in the US: 'Join your company's 401(k) plan put as much money in there as you can early on, and do not touch it.' Bartiromo's seemingly simple piece of advice is grounded in decades of financial wisdom and it comes at a time when Americans are grappling with unprecedented challenges when it comes to retirement. 'Some Americans are retiring earlier than expected - not always by choice,' Bartiromo said, setting the stage for an eye-opening discussion with personal finance expert Rachel Cruze. Bartiromo, 57, noted how data from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies found that the median retirement age in the U.S. is now 62. Cruze said how nearly 60 percent of Americans surveyed said they stepped down earlier than age 65, citing health issues, disabilities, job loss, or organizational change. It means only 12 percent of Americans manage to retire at the traditional age of 65, while 30 percent continue working beyond it. Bartiromo suggested that such a trend underscores the need for proactive financial planning and that workplace retirement plans such as a 401(k)s aren't just about becoming a millionaire but ensuring 'a stable and secure future', even in the face of unexpected challenges. Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, left, discussed how to become a millionaire alongside personal finance expert Rachel Cruze, right Bartiromo, 57, noted how data from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies found that the median retirement age in the U.S. is now 62 'Joining your company's 401(k) plan early and contributing as much as you can is crucial,' Bartiromo emphasized during the segment. 'The key is to not touch it - leave it alone and let it grow.' The benefits of 401(k) plans go beyond just savings. Many companies offer matching contributions, effectively doubling the money employees put in. Additionally, programs like Roth 401(k)s provide significant tax advantages, allowing individuals to withdraw their funds tax-free during retirement. 'It's all about consistency,' Cruze noted. 'The biggest mistake people make is pulling money out when the market dips. That short-term panic can have devastating long-term consequences.' Cruze also pointed out that younger generations such as millennials and Gen Z face unique hurdles. 'Retirement feels so far off for them. Contributing now can feel like putting money into a black hole, something they won't see for decades,' Cruze said. The pair agreed that the principles remain the same: prioritize eliminating debt, build an emergency fund in a savings account covering 3 - 6 months of expenses, and contribute at least 15 percent of monthly income towards retirement accounts. Bartiromo also stressed the importance of instilling such habits early. Maria Bartiromo and husband Jonathan Steinberg are seen together with Donald and Melania Trump in a photo from last month Bartiromo said she was encouraged to start saving from an early age including saving loose change in a jar 'Teaching kids to save, earn, and to manage money responsibly is one of the greatest gifts parents can give,' she said. 'Become a saver. Learn what it is to become a saver. Everytime you get paid put a little aside for yourself.' Bartiromo shared her own childhood lesson: 'Every time I wanted to buy something, my mom would ask, "How are you paying for it?" She made me save up, even for something small like an ice cream cone from the Mr. Softee truck. That lesson stuck with me for life. 'It stuck with me that I needed to collect change in a jar. Become a saver!,' she urged viewers. Bartiromo's credibility in offering financial advice is bolstered by her own remarkable career and personal life. Married to Jonathan Steinberg, CEO of WisdomTree Investments and the son of billionaire financier Saul Steinberg, Bartiromo worked at CNN as a producer for five years before joining CNBC in 1993, where she worked on-air for 20 years. With CNBC, she was the host of Closing Bell and was the first television journalist to deliver live television reports from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. In 2013, she left CNBC to host shows for Fox Business. During Donald Trump's first presidency she became an advocate for his administration, often giving him an easy ride in their interviews - but it appeared to resonate with viewers. Ratings for her show began to surge when Trump supporters turned to her for news with her ability to distill complex financial concepts into practical advice making her a trusted voice for millions. During Donald Trump's first presidency Bartiromo became an advocate for his administration, often giving him an easy ride in their interviews - but it appeared to resonate with viewers Married to Jonathan Steinberg, CEO of WisdomTree Investments and the son of billionaire financier Saul Steinberg, left, Bartiromo worked at CNN as a producer for five years before joining CNBC in 1993, where she worked until 2013 when she joined Fox Business At the heart of Bartiromo's advice on becoming a millionaire is a message with an air of practicality about it. 'Start small, but start early,' she urged. Whether it's contributing to a 401(k), opening a Roth IRA, or simply saving loose change in a jar, the journey to financial freedom begins with a single step. 'Teach your kids to become savers. It will yield great results ...in the end,' Bartiromo said. Cruze also offered a message of empowerment: 'The beautiful thing about personal finance is that while you are the problem, you are also the solution. 'It might require sacrifices, like taking on a side hustle or cutting back expenses, but the power to change your financial future is in your hands.' A man's body has been found inside a property in an outer Melbourne suburb, with police establishing a crime scene. The homicide squad is investigating the suspicious death of a man on Tuesday morning at an address in McCrae St, Dandenong in Melbourne's east. Emergency services were called to the address at 9.40am. The homicide squad is investigating the suspicious death of a man at a home in McCrae St in Dandenong on Tuesday morning Emergency services were called to the home at 9.40am on Tuesday and police have established a crime scene The unidentified man was declared dead at the scene. A Victoria Police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia: 'The exact circumstances surrounding his death are yet to be identified. 'A crime scene remains in place.' Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au A man has been arrested after allegedly being caught on CCTV footage starting a fire that caused major damage to the heritage-listed grandstand at Caulfield racecourse. A blaze ripped through the grandstand at the track, in eastern Melbourne, just before 6.20am on Tuesday. An investigation into the origin of the fire was launched by Victoria Police soon after it was brought 'under control' at about 7am. A 51-year-old man was arrested at Mordialloc railway station in the city's south-east about 1.45pm, following reports of several grassfires in the area. CCTV footage from inside the Norman Robinson Grandstand showed the man allegedly dragging a wheelie bin to an upper level before adding extra paper and setting it alight, according to reports. Police will allege the man allegedly started the fire in a section of the stand with timber decking, which allowed it to spread quickly. The fire resulted in extensive damage to the grandstand's hospitality areas - but it would have been worse if not for a 'state of the art' sprinkler system. Victoria Police have arrested a 51yo man in relation to the fire that caused significant damage to a Grandstand at Caulfield Racecourse earlier this morning @7NewsMelbourne pic.twitter.com/Yx7jTLruqn Rory Campbell (@RoryDCampbell) January 7, 2025 CCTV has reportedly captured a man setting fire to the heritage-listed grandstand of the Caulfield Racecourse (pictured, firefighters at the scene) Timber flooring in the old stand allowed the blaze to spread quickly and resulting in 'millions' worth of damages (pictured) Melbourne Racing Club chairman John Kanga said the heritage grandstand will not need to be demolished but will require significant repairs. 'I'm not a builder but from what I've seen this morning the damage will be in the millions,' Mr Kanga said. While staff and members are 'gutted' by the damage to the stand, a number of precious artworks managed to escape the blaze. Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dennis Smith said firefighters worked quickly to control the blaze as it threatened to spread across the timber grandstand. 'Being such an old building, there's definitely a lot of potential for that to extend and be quite a significant fire, but really good work from the initial crews,' Mr Smith said. 'We had approximately 17 fire trucks and resources on scene and I think it was over 70 firefighters on scene, so they've all worked pretty hard.' Mr Smith confirmed there were no injuries to horses or staff but one firefighter was treated in hospital for a cut hand. Police have obtained copies of the CCTV footage which are expected to play part 9in ongoing investigations into the cause of the fire (pictured, emergency services at the scene) The fire came just a day prior to a twilight race meet on the new Caulfield Heath track at the racecourse. But the MRC announced on Tuesday that the meeting would be moved to Mornington Racecourse. 'Whilst the racing surface was not impacted, building surveyors, health officials and investigators are currently inspecting the venue,' the statement reads. 'Accordingly, the MRC believed it was in the best interests of all parties to make the call now to transfer tomorrow's race meeting to avoid any further disruptions for participants and patrons.' Concerns are still being held for the availability of the course in the lead up to one of its busiest periods as it hosts the Blue Diamond Stakes, CF Orr Stakes and Oakleigh Plate in February. READ MORE: Melbourne diner is left aghast by cost of classic pub dish A young shopper has been stunned to discover Kmart workers performing group stretches at the start of their shift. Sydney man Zane Ammar had been walking around the store when he noticed their morning routine at 8am. 'You're never going to believe what I'm seeing,' he said. 'There's all these Kmart workers stretching before a shift.' He filmed himself approaching the staff members as they stood in a circle, stretching their necks. 'Excuse me, sorry to interrupt the workout,' he said before asking where the sporting goods were. 'Not at all,' a staff member replied. 'Would you like to join today?'. Mr Ammar then began to partake in the group session. Sydney man Zane Ammar invited himself to a group warmup at a popular retailer 'So, what, you just warm up for the shift pretty much?' he asked. 'Yep, pretty much,' the worker replied. As the man continued to warm up the staff member offered an encouraging compliment. 'Aren't you a lovely young man? Very handsome and everything. Great personality,' she said. She invited Mr Ammar to join them every day at 8am for the group sessions and they wished each other a good day. Many social media users found the interaction heartwarming and said stretching was helpful to retail workers' routines. 'I laugh but retail is an insanely physically demanding job. Stretching mid shift is the best feeling in the world,' one wrote. 'I work in retail and this is very important for all the back, neck, arm muscle strains that you are in for that day,' another agreed. Mr Ammar even received a string of compliments for his efforts in the group stretch session Many retail workers said their employers required them to complete stretches daily, so as to reduce the risk of injuries and time off work. 'Where I work its mandatory to do stretches before we start our shifts,' one said. 'I work for another big Aussie retailer and we do it too, so many people complain but I need those stretches,' another joked. 'As health and safety officer so good seeing this!' a higher-up wrote. One found the chosen location interesting for the pre-shift warm up. '(We've got to) do this every 7am shift but normally we do it up the back not on the shop floor,' one retail worker said. 'I work in construction we do this and I often hope nobody sees us,' a tradie joked. Australian company Primal Physiotherapy advises workers to stretch and warm up before their shift to reduce injuries and minimise usage-related pains. 'When we begin work it's important to warm up our body and muscles to get the blood flowing so we can move smoothly and lessen the risk of injury,' their website states. Daily Mail Australia contacted Kmart for comment. An Ohio police department has come under fire after video emerged showing an officer search a five-year old boy's pockets during a routine traffic stop. The footage, which was posted online by the boy's uncle, shows him standing next to his father with his hands up and facing his father's Volkswagen SUV, emulating the position of his father, as officers rifled through the boy's pockets. One officer could then be heard asking the child, 'Dad didn't give you nothing, right?' When the officers were apparently satisfied that the youngster did not have anything illicit on him, they could be seen leading the child away from the car. The boy's father, Brandon Wilson, has since told WOIO the shocking incident occurred at around 9.20pm on December 26 as he was driving to his mother's house. He said he was pulled over by Parma police officers for plates that expired in September and for a front tinted window that was too dark. The officers opened his driver-side door and he asked what was going on, Wilson recounted. He said he was later asked to get out of his vehicle, and his son followed his lead. 'My son right here and he's going in my son's pockets,' Wilson said. 'I'm like "Y'all shouldn't touch him at all in the first place," and then y'all search my car and there's nothing there.' Video posted online shows Parma police officers sifting through the pockets of a five-year-old during a routine traffic stop on December 26 Brandon Wilson said he was pulled over by Parma police officers for plates that expired in September and for a front-tinted window that was too dark Wilson went on to claim that his son, also named Brandon, was left traumatized by the experience. 'He's reenacting it with his toys. That's not cool,' the worried father said, noting he wanted to teach his children to grow up to respect law enforcement and not fear it. 'They could have went about it a whole different way. The officers didn't have to touch him, I do what y'all tell me,' he added. Wilson said he even followed orders to keep the young boy calm during the search. The father-of-two also argues there was no probable cause to bring a police dog to search his car for drugs when he already told officers he had no drugs or guns in his possession. He has since hired an attorney, and said he deserves to be treated with respect just like everyone else. 'I own my house. I pay taxes,' Wilson argued. 'They just seen me and thought, "He looks like he's up to no good,"' the father claimed of the officers who conducted the search. The father-of-two said he wanted to teach his children to grow up to respect law enforcement and not fear it But the Parma Police Department has since claimed they were searching the boy for his own protection. Officials said they reviewed body camera footage from the incident, and determined that the search was warranted after a police dog was alerted to the presence, or recent presence, of a controlled substance. They clarified that the dog is trained to only alert officers to the presence of narcotics, including heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine, and the dog's alert required all occupants of the vehicle to be searched. The review also found that cops did not instruct the child to raise his hands, and he was instead simply following his father's example, officers wrote in their report obtained by the local news network. 'The interaction with the child was brief, professional and focused on ensuring the child's welfare,' officials claimed. 'These controlled substances are not only illegal, but can also be lethal, even in miniscule amounts,' they continued. 'The officer could not risk the safety of the child's life, so the brief search was necessary under the circumstances.' 'Our decision to conduct this search was influenced by the increasing prevalence of tragic incidents where children have been harmed or killed after accidentally coming into contact with dangerous substances. 'In Ohio and across the nation, there have been cases where children have overdosed on drugs that were negligently left within their reach. This is a risk our officers work to prevent,' the officials said. 'In this case, our review process has confirmed that the officer acted reasonably, professionally and with the child's safety as a primary concern.' Parma police officers claimed they were searching the boy for his own protection Attorneys representing the Wilson family slammed the police department's response. 'The Parma Police Department's attempt to justify the unconstitutional and deeply disturbing events of December 26th is both flawed and one-sided,' the Elkhatib Law Office told WOIO. They claim Wilson and his son 'were unlawfully subjected to an unwarranted K9 search, invasive questioning and an egregious violation of the Fourth Amendment rights. 'This was a routine stop for an expired tag that inexplicably escalated into a full-blown search involving a K9 unit,' the attorneys explained. 'The police fail to explain why a K9 was deployed or how this routine stop led to the harassment of our client.' 'The driver was cooperative throughout, yet he and his child were subjected to baseless searches, despite no contraband being found.' 'The search of a five-year-old child is particularly egregious,' the attorneys argued. 'The police claim this was for the child's "safety," yet the facts paint a different picture: a frightened child, raising his hands and being unnecessarily searched while no evidence of danger or controlled substance was prevalent.' 'This was not about safety and it was an abuse of power that inflicted unnecessary trauma on an innocent child.' 'We will vigorously audit and investigate every aspect of this incident to expose how and why it escalated. We will hold the Parma Police Department accountable for their actions and ensure that this family receives the justice they deserve,' the attorneys vowed. 'Our office will not rest until we uncover the full truth and ensure that those responsible are held to account. 'This matter is far from resolved,' they said. An adult and three children have been airlifted to hospital after a horror collision left eight people trapped in a mini van on the Hume Highway. The mini van rolled on the busy highway between Sydney and Canberra near Marulan at about 12pm on Tuesday. The male driver, believed to be aged in his 50s, and seven passengers were left trapped for a short time before they were freed by bystanders. An adult and three children seriously injured in the crash were airlifted to hospital. The driver received minor injuries and was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital for mandatory testing. Photos of the aftermath showed emergency responders strewn around the mangled mini van and holding up sheets to conceal the injured. Three helicopters and several ambulances were parked on the southbound lane. A disability sign was visible on the crumpled mini van and there appeared to be an electric wheelchair among the debris. The driver of a mini van and his seven passengers were momentarily trapped after a horror collision on the Hume Highway on Tuesday (the aftermath of the crash is pictured) The mini van rolled on the busy highway near Marulan at about 12pm on Tuesday (pictured) An adult and three children seriously injured in the crash were airlifted to hospital (pictured) Those injured in the crash were taken to various hospitals including Liverpool Hospital, Canberra Hospital and Westmead Hospital. All southbound lanes of the Hume Highway have been closed at Marulan with a detour opened on Jerrara Road. Police are investigating the circumstances of the crash. Anyone with information about the incident or dashcam footage is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Four years after launching a push for more diversity in its ranks, McDonald's is ending some of its diversity practices, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that outlawed affirmative action in college admissions. McDonald's is the latest big company to shift its tactics in the wake of the June 2023 ruling and a conservative backlash against diversity, equity and inclusion programs. McDonald's message to franchise owners said the company remains committed to inclusion and would continue to 'embed inclusion practices' in its operations. Walmart, John Deere, Harley-Davidson and others rolled back their DEI initiatives last year. McDonald's said it will retire specific goals for achieving diversity at senior leadership levels. It also intends to end a program that encourages its suppliers to develop diversity training and to increase the number of minority group members represented within their own leadership ranks. McDonald's said it will also pause 'external surveys.' The burger giant didn't elaborate, but several other companies, including Lowe's and Ford suspended their participation in an annual survey by the LGBTQ advocacy group Human Rights Campaign that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. McDonald's, which has its headquarters in Chicago, rolled out a series of diversity initiatives in 2021 after a spate of sexual harassment lawsuits filed by employees and a lawsuit alleging discrimination brought by a group of black former McDonald's franchise owners. McDonald's is ending some of its diversity, equity and inclusion practices, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that outlawed affirmative action in college admissions. McDonald's message to franchise owners said the company remains committed to inclusion and would continue to 'embed inclusion practices' in its operations 'As a world-leading brand that considers inclusion one of our core values, we will accept nothing less than real, measurable progress in our efforts to lead with empathy, treat people with dignity and respect, and seek out diverse points of view to drive better decision-making,' McDonald's Chairman and CEO Chris Kempzcinski wrote in a LinkedIn post at the time. But on Monday McDonald's said in an open letter that the 'shifting legal landscape' after the Supreme Court decision and the actions of other corporations caused it to take a hard look at its own policies. Corporate America stepped up its focus on diversity initiatives after widespread protests following the police killings of George Floyd and other black Americans in 2020. Conservative activist Robby Starbuck has taken the credit for the 'first corporate flip of 2025' that saw McDonald's dump DEI policies But some companies have backtracked recently in response to pressure from conservative legal organizations. Right-wing groups have relentlessly targeted corporate diversity efforts, branding them as 'woke overreach.' A shifting political landscape may also have played a role. Donald Trump is a vocal opponent of diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Trump tapped Stephen Miller, a former adviser who leads a group called America First Legal that has aggressively challenged corporate DEI policies, as his incoming deputy chief of policy. Vice President-elect JD Vance introduced a bill in the Senate last summer to end such programs in the federal government. Conservative political commentator Robby Starbuck has threatened consumer boycotts of prominent consumer brands that don't retreat from their diversity programs, said on X that he recently told McDonald's he would be doing a story on its 'woke policies.' Conservative political commentator Robby Starbuck threatened consumer boycotts of prominent consumer brands that don't retreat from their diversity programs Starbuck has 745,000 followers on X. Companies he has previously targeted, including Tractor Supply Co, John Deere and Walmart, have backed away from DEI practices in the wake of his criticism In a direct message sent via X to McDonald's Senior Marketing Director Guillaume Huin, Starbuck asked Huin if McDonald's was considering any changes 'to embrace corporate neutrality.' Starbuck has 745,000 followers on X, and companies he has previously targeted, including Tractor Supply Co, John Deere and Walmart, have backed away from DEI practices in the wake of his criticism. McDonald's said it had been considering updates to its policies for several months and planned to time the announcement to the start of this year. In an to employees and franchisees, McDonald's senior leadership team said it remains committed to inclusion and believes a diverse workforce is a competitive advantage. The company said 30 percent of its U.S. leaders are members of underrepresented groups, up from 29 percent in 2021. McDonald's previously committed to reaching 35 percent by the end of this year. McDonald's said it has achieved one of the goals it announced in 2021: gender pay equity at all levels of the company. It also said it met three years early a goal of having 25 percent of total supplier spending go to diverse-owned businesses. McDonald's said it would continue to support efforts that ensure a diverse base of employees, suppliers and franchisees, but its diversity team will now be referred to as the Global Inclusion Team. The company said it would also continue to report its demographic information. The McDonald's Hispanic Owner-Operators Association said it had no comment on the policy change. In November, Walmart's was the latest domino to fall in a growing conservative crusade against DEI initiatives. Emboldened by that decision, conservative groups have filed lawsuits making similar arguments about corporations, targeting workplace initiatives such as diversity programs and hiring practices that prioritize historically marginalized groups. In November, Walmart, the world's largest retailer, announced it was rolling back its diversity, equity and inclusion policies When it comes to race or gender, Walmart won't be giving priority treatment to suppliers that are 51 percent-owned by women, minorities, veterans or members of the LGBTQ community Boeing also took apart its DEI department reassigning staffers to teams within the company's human resources department Bud Light beer lost its spot as the top-selling beer in the U.S. in 2023 following a controversy over a social-media promotion with a transgender influencer. Conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on X, including Walmart In the summer of 2023, Target's sales fell after coming in for criticism of its Gay Pride month merchandise displays. But Walmart, which employs 1.6 million workers in the U.S., was the largest one to do so. The company typically tries to stay neutral on hot-button social issues to appeal to a broad spectrum of shoppers and workers. Walmart also agreed to stop using the terms 'DEI' and 'Latinx' in official communication. At the time, Starbuck congratulated Walmart for its new direction. 'I have to give their executives major credit because this will send shockwaves throughout corporate America. This is the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America,' he said while warning other corporate giants. There are plenty of memes online that poke fun at DEI stances Walmart has said that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don't feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. It will include chest binders intended for youth who are going through a gender change, the company said. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer will also be reviewing grants to Pride events to make sure it is not financially supporting sexualized content that may be unsuitable for kids. For example, the company wants to makes sure a family pavilion is not next to a drag show at a Pride event, the company said. The changes don't stop there. Walmart has scrapped any use of race or gender as a criterion in awarding supplier contracts, signaling a stark departure from efforts to improve diversity in its business partnerships. The company said it didn't have quotas and will not do so going forward. Additionally, it will cease tracking demographic data for grant eligibility and funding decisions. Walmart also said it wouldn't renew a racial equity center that was established through a five-year, $100 million philanthropic commitment from the company with a mandate to: 'address the root causes of gaps in outcomes experienced by Black and African American people in education, health, finance and criminal justice systems.' In the summer of 2023, Target's sales fell after coming in for criticism of its Gay Pride month merchandise displays These swimsuits included a label which advertises the 'tuck-friendly construction' and 'extra crotch' coverage led to a huge backlash from once loyal Target shoppers Bud Light's popularity and its sale plummeted after conservative consumers boycotted the drink over its partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney The beer giant's PR disaster went from bad to worse when it swiftly broke off the contract with Mulvaney, and former Bud Light employees accused leaders of 'cowardice' for failing to support the influencer And it would stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign's annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees, signaling a chilling blow to inclusivity. Critics argue Walmart's capitulation undermines years of progress toward equity in corporate America. 'We've been on a journey and know we aren't perfect, but every decision comes from a place of wanting to foster a sense of belonging, to open doors to opportunities for all our associates, customers and suppliers and to be a Walmart for everyone,' the company said in a statement. The changes come soon after an election win by Donald Trump, who has criticized DEI initiatives and surrounded himself with conservatives who hold similar views. They include his former adviser Stephen Miller, who leads a group called America First Legal that has challenged corporate DEI policies. Trump named Miller to be the deputy chief of policy in his new administration. With Trump allies celebrating Walmart's pivot as a triumph, critics fear the tidal wave of 'anti-woke' rhetoric is only gaining momentum. in August Ford became latest high-profile American company to pump brakes on DEI Harley-Davidson ditched ts diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals in August Last summer Home improvement chain Lowe's scaled back its diversity, equity and inclusion policies, joining the ranks of several other companies In June Tractor Supply said it would be eliminating all of its diversity, equity and inclusion roles while retiring current DEI goals A Walmart spokesperson said some of its policy changes have been in progress for a while. For example, it has been moving away from using the word DEI in job titles and communications and started to use the word 'belonging.' It also started making changes to its supplier program in the aftermath of the Supreme Court affirmative action ruling. Some have been urging companies to stick with their DEI policies. In October, a group of Democrats in Congress appealed to the leaders of the Fortune 1000, saying that DEI efforts give everyone a fair chance at achieving the American dream. A mysterious death in Queensland has sparked an investigation as detectives appeal for information that could shed light on the case. The 37-year-old man was found with life-threatening injuries on Sharples Road in the northeast Rockhampton suburb of Berserker about 8am on January 2. The man was rushed to Rockhampton Hospital where he died on January 5. The circumstances which led to the man being critically injured and then left for dead on the suburban road are unclear. 'Investigations into the circumstances and cause of death are underway,' a police spokesperson said. 'Residents or anyone who may have been in the vicinity of Sharples Road, Berserker in the morning of January 2 who may have seen or heard anything are asked to contact police.' A plan backed by US billionaire Bill Gates to release genetically modified mosquitos into Australia that glow red in the dark is being met with pushback. The application to release the mosquitos was made by Oxitec, a new partnership between Australia's publicly funded CSIRO research agency and UK-based Oxitec Ltd, which has received cash from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. If the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator approves the request the released mosquitos would be genetically engineered to carry a self-limiting gene that ensures only more of non-biting males predominate with female larvae failing to mature. The would cull female mosquitos, which do the biting and transmit viruses such as dengue fever, and over time reduce populations of the insect as a whole. CSIRO director of science Professor Brett Sutton said the trial would be to limited invasive Asian mosquitos such Aedes aegypti, which carry dengue fever. Professor Sutton told Channel 10 show The Project the mosquito population should halve every year and become increasingly harmless males after the genetically altered mosquito eggs were introduced to the wild and hatched by 'just adding water'. After this the population of the targeted insects should halve every few years, professor Sutton said. He confirmed the genetically altered mosquitos would glow red in the dark. There are plans to introduce a genetically modified mosquito into Australia that glows red in the dark 'They've got a protein that's encoded for I think it's a coral protein that, fluorescence red, and that means they can be identified in the wild when they're introduced,' professor Sutton said. 'But also when you stop introducing them the numbers will fall away again and you can see that washing out in the population with that fluorescent gene.' Asked by panelist Hamish Macdonald whether the trial was risking 'tampering with natural populations', professor Sutton denied that would be the case. 'Well, we're talking about an invasive species here, and so these, these are targeting exotic mosquitoes, really mosquitoes that shouldn't be there in the numbers that they are,' he replied. He said the mosquitos spread a number of harmful diseases such as dengue, zika, Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya virus. 'Climate change is expanding that range, and so really, if anything, it's a return to,, how things might have been historically,' professor Sutton said. However, not all are convinced with Independent Senator Gerard Rennick on Monday writing to the Health Minister and the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator to oppose the trial. 'The potential ecological impacts of releasing a new genetically modified mosquito strain are wide-ranging,' he wrote. CSIRO Director of Science Professor Brett Sutton said the trial would be limited to disease-carrying invasive Asian mosquitos 'There is considerable uncertainty about how these mosquitoes will interact with local ecosystems which could lead to unintended consequences that are impossible to control. 'Furthermore, how would the trial be able to determine if the new species of mosquito was effective in reducing dengue fever given there is next to no dengue fever in Queensland? 'I am also concerned that this has been initiated without any consultation with the Australian public. They deserve to be notified and consulted before anything is approved.' Senator Rennick told Daily Mail Australia he wrote the letter because he 'was getting smashed' by voters wanting to know what he was doing to stop the trial. Queensland Libertarian Senate candidate and farmer Lachlan Lade also released a social media video opposing the trial. 'This could go terribly wrong,' Mr Lade said in the video posted on X. 'There's the potential for genetic transfer to unrelated insect species. We don't know how this would impact our ecosystems. Mosquitos are food for countless species like bats, birds, dragonflies and fish. 'Disrupting this food chain could ripple across the environment in ways that we can't predict. 'As a Queenslander I know too well government-backed solutions can backfire - the cane toads.' Cane toads were introduced to Australia from South America in 1935 to control beetles that were damaging sugar cane crops but soon became the much bigger pest. Gene Technology Regulator Dr Raj Bhula said the Office of Gene Technology will take public submissions on the trial during March. A mother who fled war-torn Ukraine to live in Australia has been swept off rocks to her death in front of her horrified family during a beach visit. Olya Tikhanova, 40, was on a week-long holiday with her husband and 14-year-old daughter when she swept off rocks while taking a photo on Saturday at Salmon Beach, near Esperance on WA's south coast. She was pulled from the water but could not be saved. Ms Tikhanova emigrated to Perth from the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, one of the epicentres of the Russia-Ukraine war. The city has been bombarded by Russian missiles, with the most recent attack last month killing at least eight people. Ms Tikhanova's husband Vlad had secured a job as a welder with Alloy Steel International in Perth just days before Russia invaded in 2022. He later brought over his wife and daughter, with Ms Tikhanova also securing a job with Alloy Steel, according to the West Australian. Olya Loginova, a fellow Ukrainian expat living in Perth, said that Ms Tikhanova was 'impossible to forget'. Olya Tikhanova (pictured), 40, was on a week-long holiday along the WA coast with her husband and 14-year-old daughter when she swept off rocks at Salmon Beach, near Esperance, while taking a photo about 11am on Saturday Ms Tikhanova emigrated to Perth from her home in the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, one of the epicentres of the Russia-Ukraine war 'Her genuine smile, boundless energy, and love for life touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,' she wrote. 'She left behind a warmth that will always stay with us. 'Now her husband, Vlad, is preparing for the funeral while also caring for their daughter. The weight of this loss is unimaginable.' A GoFundMe page has so far raised almost $22,000. 'Our little light stopped shining and our life became darker,' the page states. 'The overflowing stream of kindness, laughter, warmth, love and radiance stopped. 'Without a doubt, the people who were touched by her spirit will never forget her. Olya made people around her better, and the memory of her will keep them that way.' Ms Tikhanova's death followed that of tourist Faycal Al Saidi, 32, who was also swept off rocks at Salmon Beach in 2020. His body was never found but an inquest held in 2022 ruled that he had drowned. Since the start of summer on December 1, there have been 44 drownings across Australia. New details have emerged from the case of an alleged home invader later involved in a police pursuit and alleged escape across state lines. A man accused of firing at police during a car chase was allegedly carrying two pistols, a rifle and a grenade after a botched New Year's Eve home invasion. Paea Tuiniua and Faez Finau, both 20, allegedly fled police in a stolen car after the attempted break-and-enter at an Edensor Park home in Sydney's southwest. Shots were allegedly fired into the bonnet of a police car during a later pursuit with the stolen car only stopping when road spikes were used. Tuiniua allegedly fled into bushland and escaped detection until he was stopped by police in Brisbane airport. Following his extradition to NSW overnight, the 20-year-old faced accusations on Tuesday of possessing military-style weapons among a string of 13 charges. Tuiniua allegedly had during and after the home invasion a grenade, AR15 semi-automatic rifle, 9mm Beretta M9 pistol and a Glock 19 Gen4 pistol. Police also accuse him of committing the attempted home invasion to seriously injure the two occupants, a man and a woman, according to court documents seen by AAP. Paea Tuiniua has been extradited to NSW (pictured) accused of firing shots at police during a botched New Year's Eve home invasion Shots were allegedly fired into the bonnet of a police car (pictured) during a later pursuit Tuiniua allegedly had during and after the home invasion a grenade, AR15 semi-automatic rifle, 9mm Beretta M9 pistol and a Glock 19 Gen4 pistol (pictured, damage to the police car) In firing at police, the 20-year-old allegedly did so to resist arrest and endangered the safety of the public and the senior constable in the car that was hit, the court documents say. No police were injured during the shooting but the pursuit was terminated over safety concerns. Tuiniua's case will next come before Campbelltown Local Court on March 5. Finau, the alleged driver of the stolen vehicle, has been hit with nine charges, including aggravated break-and-enter and several driving and firearms offences. He was formally refused bail on January 1 and his matter will return to Campbelltown Local Court on February 26. NSW Police have released CCTV footage of a man exiting the Hyundai and trying to kick down the door of the Edensor Park home as well as images showing damage from the alleged shooting, with holes in the bonnet of a dog squad vehicle. The Biden administration has quietly shipped 11 prisoners linked to al Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden to Oman from Guantanamo Bay. The Yemeni men had been held at the infamous facility at the southeastern end of Cuba for more than two decades without charge. Two of the men were once bodyguards for Osama Bin Laden, and all of the men were captured in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks. '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 Defense Department said in a statement. 'Although different processes, each of the Yemeni detainees underwent a thorough, interagency review by career professionals who unanimously determined all detainees as transfer eligible consistent with the national security interests of the United States.' The move was the latest salvo - and potentially the last - in a concerted effort from the Biden administration to clear Guantanamo Bay of such prisoners. The transfer took place early on Monday morning as part of a covert operation to get the men to Oman, where they will be resettled, safely and without fuss. It is unclear what the United States has agreed to, or provided Oman, in exchange for taking the prisoners. The Biden administration has quietly shipped 11 prisoners linked to al-Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden to Oman from Guantanamo Bay The Yemeni men had been held at the infamous Cuban facility for more than two decades without charge The men could not be returned to their home country of Yemen, which is gripped by civil war, due to their own safety. Moath Hamza Ahmed al-Alwi and Suhayl Abdul Anam al Sharabi were both alleged to be bin Laden's bodyguards, and al-Alwi is also an accused al Qaeda fighter. According to a 2020 intelligence file, al Sharabi 'may have been associated with an aborted 9/11-style hijacking plot in Southwest Asia.' A separate intelligence file on al-Alwi from 2016 revealed he 'has made several statements since early 2016 that suggest he maintains an extremist mindset.' The other men who have been released have been identified as: Uthman Abd al-Rahim Muhammad Uthman, Khalid Ahmed Qassim, 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. Moath al-Alwi, al Sharabi and al-Rammah were all authorized to be released back in 2022. The sultanate of Oman did not acknowledge taking in the prisoners early Tuesday. However, the key Western ally has taken in over two dozen prisoners in the past since the founding of the prison. The transfer announced Monday leaves six never-charged men at Guantanamo, two convicted and sentenced inmates, and seven others charged with the 2001 attacks, the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole, and 2002 bombings in Bali. Two of the men were once bodyguards for Osama Bin Laden, and all of the men were captured in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks Of the remaining 15 men in Guantanamo Bay, three are eligible for transfer and another trio to have their detention status reviewed. Former president George W. Bush set up the detention facility in 2002 as part of his administration's fight against al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups. At its peak, the facility held up to 800 detainees. Detainees were designated as enemy combatants and denied access to the U.S. justice system. The Biden administration has repeatedly vowed to shutter Guantanamo for good; a promise Barack Obama failed to deliver on in his two terms in the White House. The cost of Guantanamo has bloated over the past two decades, so that by the time former President Trump took office the U.S. was spending $13 million per year, per prisoner, according to Lee Wolosky, Obamas Special Envoy for Guantanamo Closure. That's compared to $78,000 spent per inmate at a 'super-max' prison in Florence, Colo., home to some of the highest-risk prisoners in the U.S. A shotgun allegedly found in the luggage of a man attempting to leave Australia was an 'inoperable' antique, a court has been told. Antonios Moussa, 39, could serve up to 20 years in jail if found in breach of weapons trafficking laws. Moussa was flagged by security at Sydney Airport on December 28 after X-ray scanning revealed a suspicious item in his checked baggage. An inspection of the bag revealed parts of a disassembled shotgun along with ammunition, according to police. Moussa had been set to fly to Lebanon but instead spent the next week in prison charged with trafficking prohibited firearms or firearm parts out of Australia. He was reunited with a large group of his family and friends during a bail hearing on Tuesday. While the facts of the alleged offence were 'troubling', Moussa's lawyer said he believed the matter would be straightforward once his client enters a plea. 'It will be shown... that the gun was inoperative. It had a... broken stock,' lawyer Stephen Stanton told the Downing Centre Local Court. The 39-year-old was flagged by security at Sydney Airport on December 28 after X-ray scanning revealed a suspicious item in his checked baggage 'It's an old gun, about 80 years old.' While accepting Moussa does not pose an unacceptable risk to the community, Magistrate Hugh Donnelly said a jail term could still be a real possibility due to the nature of the charge. 'A custodial sentence is likely in this case because of the way the offence is framed,' he told the court. He granted bail on conditions including twice-weekly reporting to police, leading Moussa's wife to break down in tears. The court was told Moussa was a director of at least five companies. They included wardrobing, carpentry and land development businesses. While he did hold a firearms licence which was suspended upon his arrest, police allege the shotgun was not registered to him. AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Dom Stephenson described the weapon allegedly found in Moussa's bag as having the potential to cause real harm. Moussa was was reunited with a large group of his family and friends during a bail hearing at Downing Centre Court on Tuesday 'There was allegedly an initial claim that the weapon was a drenching gun used for agricultural farming,' he said. 'However, the AFP subsequently determined the weapon was a shotgun broken down into two parts.' 'Security screening staff at the airport were vigilant and along with AFP officers, acted quickly to ensure the safety of the travelling public and stop weapons being taken offshore.' Moussa is due back in court at a later date. An Arizona man was left with third-degree burns across much of his body and no skin above his knees after police officers pinned him to the ground in record heat. Surveillance footage shows Michael Kenyon, 30, talking on a cellphone and walking in a parking lot in Phoenix on July 6, when police pull up in a police truck. Two officers could be seen getting out of the vehicle as Kenyon puts away his phone. Within a matter of minutes, the officers could be seen trying to handcuff him and a scuffle between Kenyon and the cops ensues. Two backup officers then arrived at the scene, and the four officers holding Kenyon down on the blacktop for more than four minutes as temperatures in the city reached 114-degrees Fahrenheit, with the asphalt estimated to be between 180 to 200 degrees, according to CBS News. Eventually the cops handcuffed Kenyon and lifted him from the asphalt as they escorted him into the police vehicle. Cellphone footage taken from a nearby balcony also showed Kenyon yelling out, 'please, please, I can't move, I didn't do anything,' KGUN reports. He wound up spending more than a month hospitalized with burns on his face, arms, chest and legs, and chunks of skin are missing from above his knees. Michael Kenyon, 30, suffered third degree burns to much of his body after four Phoenix police officers pinned him to the ground in record heat The officers held Kenyon to the ground for more than four minutes as temperatures in the Arizona city reached 114-degrees Fahrenheit, with the asphalt estimated to be between 180 to 200 degrees 'Phoenix police are demonstrating an utter disregard for human life over and over again,' attorney Bobby DiCello said. 'This young man was burned to the third degree because his skin was cooked on asphalt.' Kenyon later told ABC 15 that he believed officers stopped him because his roommate had recently reported a theft from their home across the street. 'So I walked up to them with my phone in my hand and said, "Hey what happened?" or "What's going on?"' At that point, he said, two officers grabbed both of his wrists. 'They said to me in a mean, hostile way, "You're being detained,"' Kenyon said. 'But I said, "I'm on the phone. What do you mean. I didn't do anything. Please explain to me." And they were like, "Why are you getting antsy? Why do you seem like you're nervous?" I said, "I'm not. You're scaring me. Can you please explain to me? Let me sit down. Let me sit down."' 'I sat down on the back of some random person's truck tailgate,' he recounted. 'They said, "Give me your arms. Stop resisting." And I think that's when like five people were on me... And I'm just screaming for help. And I'm thinking this is literally [how] George Floyd was literally like. 'And that's when I'm like this is it, this is me, this is where I guess I'm going to stay at... This is the end.' Kenyon was walking through a parking lot, talking on a cellphone, when he said two officers approached him and grabbed either wrist He said the pain was unbearable 'like going through Hell and Hades... feels like your skin is melting off.' 'The lady across in the high-rise said she thought an animal was dying,' Kenyon said of the woman who recorded the incident on her cellphone. 'That's why she looked out the window. And that's when she started recording me.' After a while on the burning hot ground, Kenyon said he started to think he deserved the torture. 'Deep down I think to myself, "I've had a bad past, I don't deserve a lot of good things in my life. So I'm like maybe I did deserve this, you know."' He had an outstanding warrant for failing to appear on a gun charge at the time, but Kenyon said he was unaware of the warrant - and the Phoenix Police Department later confirmed the officers at the scene did not know either. Kenyon wound up spending more than a month hospitalized with burns on his face, arms, chest and legs Much of the skin above his knees is now gone Then, when he was in the hospital for over a month, Kenyon said officers were stationed at the hospital for several days, possibly a week and often kept him handcuffed. 'They were just outside the room,' Kenyon said. 'They had this little clicker thing with the blinds [where they could look through]. 'They wouldn't let me use my phone and contact my family... It took certain cops to break the rules to let me use my phone.' He claimed the officers finally left after a friend called lawyers who showed up at the hospital. 'He committed no crime, he's never been charged with a crime,' attorney Bobby DiCello told CBS News. 'And he spent over a month in a burn unit with police peeping through the windows to see what he was doing.' The attorneys have since filed a notice of claim, saying Kenyon will settle for $15.53million or he will sue the city in federal court. 'Michael Kenyon is 30 years old. At an average life expectancy, he should live another 42 years. that is 15,330 days,' the notice of claim said, according to KGUN. 'We are confident that not a single one of you would choose to live in Michael's disfigured body and traumatized mind for $1,000 a day and we are confident a jury would agree that this is a modest sum for what the Phoenix Police Department has caused to him.' Attorneys representing Kenyon have now filed a notice of claim, suggesting he would sue the city of Phoenix for the incident if it does not agree to pay him $15.53 million It goes on to accuse the police department of having a lack of training, engaging in unconstitutional practices and creating a violent culture - all of which were findings in a scathing Department of Justice investigation released in June. 'The mayor's and city council's rejection of the Department of Justice's finding is already well-publicized,' the notice of claim said. 'But this situation is very difficult to square with any [belief] that this is a department that is even minimally professional, accountable or respectful of the residents it is charged to "serve and protect."' Lawyers representing Kenyon also wrote that they had 'little doubt' that the officers decided to pin him to the blacktop 'due to a lack of training and supervision.' 'Indeed, through 1,147 pages of Operations Orders, there does not appear to be a single word about the severe risk of injury passed by holding subjects against pavement.' Police have previously claimed Kenyon was struggling with officers, prompting them to push him to the ground. The matter remains under internal police investigation, a city spokesperson told KGUN as they declined to comment on the claim. Liberal pundit Van Jones slammed Chuck Schumer as 'foolish' and compared him to Pinocchio for defending Joe Biden as controversy rages over his mental decline. Schumer appeared on Meet the Press Sunday when host Kristen Welker asked him to respond to Americans who believe Democrats 'misled' them about Biden's mental abilities in the crucial months before he stepped out of the race. 'Look, we didn't,' the New York Democrat insisted. 'And let's look at President Biden. He's had an amazing record,' adding that the president is 'a great guy.' Jones, known as one of CNN's most reliable left-wing commentators, took Schumer to task over his claims. 'It's foolish. Obviously, Biden was in bad shape,' Jones said on Abby Phillip's show. 'I was surprised, other people were surprised who were not having regular contact with Biden were surprised,' Jones added, citing an interview with Anderson Cooper earlier last year where the president seemed sharp. 'But there were people who were close who must have known better and people should just... obviously, a lot was known and wasn't said and wasn't shared and now it's leaking out all the time anyway.' He then said Schumer needed to 'quit playing around' if he wanted to 'have any credibility.' Liberal CNN pundit Van Jones slammed Chuck Schumer and compared him to Pinocchio for defending Joe Biden as controversy rages over his mental decline Meet the Press host Kristen Welker 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 on the NBC show Sunday 'Schumer's nose is going to start growing if he keeps doing stuff like that,' Jones said, likening the soon-to-be Senate Minority Leader to Pinocchio. Jones then joked with the rest of the panel that Democrats claimed Biden was doing 'backflips, pilates' and other physically amazing feats. On Sunday, Welker 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. 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.' 'Schumer's nose is going to start growing if he keeps doing stuff like that,' Jones said, likening the soon-to-be Senate Minority Leader to Pinocchio Jones joked with the rest of the panel that Democrats claimed Biden was doing 'backflips, pilates' and other physically amazing feats At the same time, Schumer wouldn't bite 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. '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.' Detectives are probing whether a missing woman who vanished without a trace more than a decade ago met foul play after new information sparked a fresh search for her remains. Lorrin Whitehead, then 42, was last seen getting into the driver's seat of a red 4WD in Bannockburn near Geelong south-west of Melbourne on February 8, 2013. The mother-of-five was seen buying a bottle of water, a greeting card and a pen at a local supermarket after she left her property around 4.40pm. On Tuesday morning, police launched a new search after they received new information about the possible location of Ms Whitehead's remains. Police and SES crews were seen scouring bushland at a remote property in Shelford, around 20km west of Bannockburn. They were searching for Ms Whitehead's remains and several devices that she owned, including a laptop which has never been recovered. 'We've got a responsibility to Lauren, her five children, her elderly parents, and the tight-knit community of Bannockburn to solve this investigation,' Detective Sergeant Steven Murphy told reporters. 'We're considering all of the theories in relation to Lorrin's disappearance and that includes foul play.' Fresh clues have sparked a renewed search for Lorrin Whitehead (pictured) who vanished without a trace more than a decade ago Lorrin Whitehead was last seen buying some items at a supermarket shortly before she vanished without a trace in February 2013 'But as we do that, we need to keep an open mind. 'We're looking for certain items that are of interest to us, but also looking for Lorrin's remains.' It remains unclear what specific information led police to search the private property in Shelford, the Herald Sun reported. 'Today is just another one of the things that we are doing to follow up every piece of information,' Sgt Murphy said. 'The area for today's search is not one that people will regularly walk through, so we're hopeful there may be some sign of Lorrin here even after all these years. 'I can only begin to imagine how difficult the past 12 years have been for Lorrin's family and loved ones not having any answers about why or how she disappeared.' Ms Whitehead (pictured) was last seen getting into the driver's seat of a red four-wheel drive in Bannockburn's CBD, near Geelong, in Victoria's south on February 8, 2013 Police released a computer generated image of what the mother-of-five would look like today at age 53 Her bank accounts have not been used since the day she went missing while her work phone was found inside her home. A second witness reported seeing a red 4WD parked on the nature strip of Lorrin's property over the weekend of her disappearance. Police launched an appeal for information last year for further information about the vehicle as Ms Whitehead didn't own a red 4WD at the time of her disappearance. Ms Whitehead's eldest daughter Amelia Grozdanovski was just 11 when her mum disappeared. 'We are none the wiser. We have had no clear leads, although we've had lots and lots of people come forward with information and theories and helpful comments,' she told the ABC last year. Sgt Murphy said police have continued to receive new information and have spoken to people, who knew Ms Whitehead, about her disappearance. Homicide Squad investigators are not part of the renewed search effort. The owners of the land searched are not involved in the investigation and gave permission for police to search their property. Anyone with information about Ms Whitehead's disappearance is urged to call Crime Stoppers. A 'valued' finance manager for a military veterans' sailing club stole almost 70,000 to fund her gambling and drug habit, a court has heard. Lyndsey Howell, 39, left members of the historic Hornet club - which is supported by Princess Anne - in 'disbelief' after she plundered their finances for her own use over a 22-month period. The mother-of-two defrauded the non profit organisation - founded 60 years ago for veterans by Naval officers - to support her gambling as well as alcohol and cocaine habits, which had developed after her divorce. The court heard Howell abused her position to fake transfers to suppliers and take money out under the guise of giving members cash refunds. Her betrayal had an 'emotional impact' on the organisation as she had been part of the club 'since childhood' because her father and brother also worked there, Portsmouth Crown Court was told. After pleading guilty to fraud by abuse of position for the missing 68,377.84, Howell was handed a suspended prison sentence with a judge condemning her for abusing a club that she and her family had longstanding ties to. The Hornet Sailing Club was founded in 1964 in Gosport, Hampshire and its 200 berth marina provides an affordable way for Armed Forces veterans, particularly those who served in the Navy, to enjoy sailing and socialising. A full membership at the club costs 165 a year and it is based on the site of the Second World War base HMS Hornet, from which motor torpedo boats and gunboats were deployed to patrol the Channel. Lyndsey Howell, 39, left members of the historic Hornet club in 'disbelief' after she plundered their finances for her own use over a 22-month period The Hornet Sailing Club was founded in 1964 in Gosport, Hampshire and its 200 berth marina provides an affordable way for Armed Forces veterans to enjoy sailing and socialising HRH The Princess Royal became the club's Royal patron in 2014 to mark their 50th anniversary. Prosecuting, Catherine Flatt explained that Howell's fraud came to light after her manager noticed that she had been paid early. She said: 'Between January 2022 and October 2023 Howell made a gain of 68,000 for herself by abusing her position as the financial controller at Hornet Sailing Club. 'Howell was employed by Hornet Sailing Club as were members of her family, she had been employed by them for nine and a half years. 'Her manager noticed she had been paid two days early, Howell claimed it was an error but it led him to investigate further. 'He discovered a series of transactions, some were cash refunds to members, some had names of suppliers on them but were paid to Howell. 'The impact of the fraud on the club has been not just financial but because she was a valued member of staff it had an emotional impact.' Ms Flatt read a victim impact statement from the club's Commodore Rear Admiral Richard Stokes who described the sense of 'disbelief' felt by the club. The mother-of-two (pictured walking into court) defrauded the non profit organisation - founded 60 years ago for veterans by Naval officers - to support her gambling as well as alcohol and cocaine habits The club is based on the site of the Second World War base HMS Hornet, from which motor torpedo boats and gunboats were deployed to patrol the Channel He said: 'Hornet Sailing Club is a not-for-profit members club established in 1964 to provide sailing for veteran members of the Armed Forces. 'For many members their only source of income is their military pension, the club aims to keep the number of paid staff down. 'Howell was employed as a financial services manager, her involvement in the club goes back to childhood, her father, Stewart Peters, is the marina manager.' The court heard that her brother, Robert Peters, was also employed by the club. RAdm Stokes, who was sat in the public gallery, added that the club had managed to 'withstand' the financial loss but the ordeal had caused 'anxiety' for older club members. 'When evidence came to light that Howell had been defrauding the club there was a sense of disbelief, 68,000 had been taken from the club bank accounts. 'Trust is at the heart of the military ethos, she was trusted to manage cash and bank transfers. 'The investigation has caused some anxiety particularly for our older members.' Ms Flatt read a victim impact statement from the club's Commodore Rear Admiral Richard Stokes (pictured) who described the sense of 'disbelief' felt by the club Oliver Hirsch, defending, explained that Howell's life had 'fallen apart' after her divorce and she turned to drinking, drugs and gambling. He said: 'Howell grew up with the sailing club, she worked there for years without issue. 'Her life began to fall apart after her divorce, she became a heavy user of alcohol, cocaine and gambling. 'It is clear that money was taken when her account was near zero, it was a stopgap solution. 'She has taken steps to deal with that, she has stopped gambling and she is sober.' Sentencing Howell, Judge William Ashworth said her crime was 'severe' but that it was 'out of character' for the financial services manager. He said: 'Following your divorce and involvement with people who brought you within the sphere of addiction your personal life fell apart. 'The offence you committed is a more severe offence because it was taking from the club that has employed you and your family for many years. 'Your culpability was undermined because of the divorce and the way you were coping with your problems. 'I know offers have been made for repayment, the offending is out of character, it seems clear to me you have done everything in your power to rescue the situation.' Howell, of Gosport, was given a 12 month prison sentence suspended for a year, required to complete 10 rehabilitation days and 100 hours of community service and ordered to pay the prosecution's costs of 85. MBABANE The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) will headline the upcoming National Arts and Culture Awards (NACAs) nominees summit. SAMRO is a copyright asset management society established under the South African Copyright Act, aimed at protecting the intellectual property of music creators. The organisation achieves this by licensing music users, collecting licence fees and distributing royalties to the creators. Additionally, SAMRO plays a crucial role in funding and supporting music and arts education through its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives. It also enhances the music industry by hosting regular seminars and workshops, along with supporting conferences that foster creativity across various categories and genres of music. SAMRO is dedicated to being a world-class African copyright administration body that upholds the highest standards of corporate governance, business ethics and management. Its mission is to make a valuable and lasting contribution to the lives of its members, to South African cultural heritage and to the music industry more broadly. During an interview with this publication, Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stanley Dlamini, revealed that SAMRO will be visiting the Kingdom. According to Dlamini, the summit will be hosted in Manzini. NACAs nominees will attend a summit, which we are preparing for in the last week of this month or early next month. We are now seeking confirmations from our presenters, which include SAMRO. We have a memorandum of understanding with Julios Cinelux, and we are looking to host the summit there, he stated. Dlamini further disclosed that the NACAs will be held every two years. We have a goal of empowering creatives through ENCAC. This year, we will conduct regional awards; our plan is to host the NACAs every two years. So, when the NACAs take a break, we will be focusing on the regional awards. By the time we are expected to host the NACAs, we want to have already prepared regional artists who will compete at the national level, Dlamini said. The NACAs are set to become the first awards in Africa to be held every two years. Most awards such as the South African Music Awards (SAMAs), are hosted annually. Established in 1995, the SAMAs typically have their ceremony in late April or May, with the judging process starting in November of the previous year. The nominations are usually announced at the end of March, and winners are presented with a gold-plated statuette known as a SAMA. The establishment of NACAs reflects a growing recognition of the importance of arts and culture within Eswatini and the broader Southern African region. By hosting this summit, ENCAC aims to create a space for dialogue and exchange among industry stakeholders, providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in the competitive artistic landscape. Anticipated As the kingdom prepares to welcome SAMRO for this pivotal event, it is anticipated that the partnership will strengthen the local arts sector. The involvement of a prominent organisation like SAMRO signifies a commitment to the professionalisation of the music industry in Eswatini, emphasising the protection of creators rights and encouraging the growth of artistic talent. Local musician Notik who recently performed in Lesotho during the Maletsunyane Braai Festival, expressed his excitement for the upcoming summit, saying he will get to learn a lot. Firstly, Id like to send a special shout-out to the NACAs team; they did well, and the awards ceremony was top-notch, not to mention that it was their first attempt. Personally, I felt privileged to be in such an environment, which shows a great improvement in our industry. Regarding the summit, I think I will learn a great deal because, so far, all the information Ive gathered has been from the internet and my peers, which still leaves me lacking in some areas. I am looking forward to acquiring knowledge on the day, and this sentiment is not just mine but shared by many creatives in the country. I receive direct messages every day, asking how the industry works, and I sometimes struggle to provide enough informations to those wanting to start their music journey. It is also crucial to emphasise the importance of having your music on all digital streaming platforms, he said. Talented spinner Bandora Da DJ, also shared his suggestion, citing the council should now move towards funding artists. Its about time arts and culture took the music industry seriously. We have great performing artists who need funding to succeed in the international market. We have exceptional talent like Jojo and the likes of Lady Spesh, who can fly our flag high on the international stage, but they need support in terms of funding. Ultimately, Eswatini artists and DJs require financial backing to promote their projects and to make their mark in the international market, he said. An urgent hunt for an attempted kidnapper is underway after a man allegedly tried to snatch two children from a London street in broad daylight. Police say the incident took place on Bow Road in Tower Hamlets, East London, on November 27 at around 4.30pm. The man is described by the force as a white man with blond hair, no facial hair and being short in height. He was allegedly wearing a white t-shirt and black trousers with black shoes. Tower Hamlets Police shared a statement on X: 'We are appealing for help to identify a man we want to in connection with the attempted kidnapping of two children which took place around 16:30hrs on 27 November, Bow Road, E3. Police have released an e-fit image of the man they would like to speak to, describing him as a white man with blond hair, no facial hair and being short in height Police say the incident took place on Bow Road in Tower Hamlets, East London , on November 27 at around 4.30pm 'The man is described as a white man with blonde hair, no facial hair and of a short height. 'He was wearing a white t-shirt and black trousers with black shoes. 'If you recognise him contact police quoting 5283/27NOV2024.' The grieving partner of a man who drowned when a boat capsized off the coast of a popular tourist hotspot has opened up about how the tragedy occurred. Great-grandfather Roger Walker, 82 and his best mate Victor Kent, 69, lost their lives in the fishing tragedy near Point Connor, south of Beachport, on South Australia's Limestone Coast on Monday. Mr Kent's wife Cathy, 59, was also on board when the boat flipped over and the trio from the nearby town of Millicent were found unresponsive on the shore. The two men were unable to be revived while Ms Kent was rushed to Mount Gambier Hospital, where she remains in a stable condition. Mr Walker's shattered partner June McIntyre became worried when he didn't arrive home from his regular early morning fishing trip. 'He's usually home by 10.30am and he wasn't home,' Ms McIntyre told 7 News. The two fishermen were trying to remove a cray pot that got stuck near the side of their boat. The boat capsized as the men tried to remove the fishing trap. Mr Walker's shattered partner June McIntyre (pictured) said she got worried when Mr Walker didn't come back from his regular fishing trip Police have since revealed that two people on board were not wearing life jackets. 'A third person was wearing a life jacket, but I understand, not correctly,' South Australia Police Commissioner Grant Stevens told reporters. The person, who was wearing the life jacket incorrectly, is understood to have been one of the two men who died, the Adelaide Advertiser reported. However locals added that Ms Kent, who survived, was known to always wear a life jacket every time she went out on the water. 'There has been an issue with one of the ropes becoming entangled, causing the boat to capsize,' Commissioner Stevens said. 'But the full circumstances will be determined and provided to the coroner.' Ms McIntyre broke down as she paid tribute to her family-orientated partner of 26 years. Mr Walker had six grandchildren and one great-grandchild with another on the way. 'I'll love him and I'll miss him but when these things happen you can't do anything about it,' his partner said. June McIntyre (pictured left) has paid an emotional tribute to long-time partner Roger Walker (pictured right) Victor Kent's 59-year-old wife Cathy (pictured) was also on board the vessel when the boat flipped over. She was rushed to hospital where she remains in a stable condition 'So you've just got to pick up yourself and get on with it. 'He was a great bloke and I loved being with him. 'We've all just got to love and think about him and keep on going in his memory.' Mr Walker and Mr Kent went fishing together for five years and would go out every day if the weather permitted. The tragedy has rocked the local community. Local Justin Philpott said he didn't spot any cray fishing boats out on the water on Monday. 'It was a really windy day, and none of them were out but they're usually out there every day,' Mr Philpott told the newspaper. 'Someone from the town noticed that (Victor's car) was still parked at the boat launch beach and raised the alarm.' Mr Walker and Mr Kent died when their boat capsized (pictured) after the two fishermen were trying to remove a cray pot that got stuck near the side of the small vessel The rough conditions meant that the capsized boat wasn't pulled to shore until late Monday night. The tragedy comes after the body of another man was found at a boat ramp in November. Peter Martin, 77, is understood to have been checking cray pots on the waters near the Anxious Bay Boat ramp in Elliston, near the Eyre Peninsula, when he died. More than 30 drownings have been reported across Australia this summer as authorities urge people to stay safe near the water. Has your flight been disrupted by snow? Email: mark.duell@mailonline.co.uk Britain's big freeze caused further havoc today as flights were disrupted, schools closed and bin collections were thrown into chaos - with more snow on the way. Met Office warnings for snow and ice remained in force across much of the UK after severe flooding and blizzards caused motorway closures and shut railway lines, while there were even flurries in London this morning as commuters headed to work. Post-Christmas bin collections have also been disrupted in areas including Sheffield, Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees, Macclesfield and Flintshire because of the conditions. Bristol Airport suspended all flights for a period this morning due to the snow, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport closed for snow clearing and anti-icing until 10am. Manchester Airport also temporarily shut both of its runways for the third day in a row today due to heavy snow, with flights diverted and more delays expected later. Aberdeen Airport also paused flights due to 'freezing conditions' with its teams having been 'working throughout the night to clear snow and de-ice the airfield'. The Met Office said up to 4in (10cm) of snow would fall over higher ground into this morning, then a further 4in in 15 hours tomorrow in the South. And there were reports of 'thundersnow' in Scotland as thunderstorms formed in the wintry conditions. More than 350 schools were closed due to the weather today as West Yorkshire made up the majority with 177 closures in Bradford, 95 in Kirklees and 48 in Leeds. Temperatures fell to -8.1C (17F) in the Highlands early this morning, while the low in England was -5C (23F) at both Topcliffe in North Yorkshire and Shap in Cumbria - after yesterday was the UK's coldest night of winter so far with -13.3C (8.1F). A snow and ice warning for Scotland runs from 12pm today until 12pm tomorrow, and for Northern Ireland from 3pm today until 12pm tomorrow. A separate snow alert for southern England, including South London, runs tomorrow from 9am until midnight. Heavy snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning Aberdeen Airport paused flights amid 'freezing conditions' today as ploughs cleared the snow MET OFFICE WARNINGS: A snow and ice warning for Scotland runs from 12pm today until 12pm tomorrow, and for Northern Ireland from 3pm today until 12pm tomorrow. A separate snow alert for southern England, including South London, runs tomorrow from 9am until midnight Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Difficult driving condtions today for drivers with roads flooded near Chelmsford in Essex An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning, meaning danger to life, for the River Soar covering caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire. Across England, there were a further 201 flood warnings for 'expected' flooding and 300 alerts for 'possible' flooding. Natural Resources Wales also issued 15 alerts. Manchester Airport said this morning that it had reopened its two runways after closing them for the third consecutive day because of snow. The airport said at 2am that the runways were closed 'due to heavy snow', and soon after 5am said they had reopened. It said: 'Our runways are now open, but as a result of the earlier closure, some departures and arrivals may still experience delays. Please check with your airline for the latest updates and allow extra time for your journey.' At least 23 flights due to arrive at Manchester between 4.40pm yesterday and 1am today were diverted to other airports, affecting around 4,000 passengers. Bristol Airport said at 8am that flights had resumed, after they were suspended earlier today because of 'the ongoing weather conditions'. One Ryanair flight from Kaunas in Lithuania to Bristol was diverted to Stansted during the suspension. Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Light snow falls on a residential street in Kilburn, North West London, this morning Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning Rescuers in floodwater at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Bristol Airport suspended all flights for a period this morning due to the heavy snow conditions Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning A drone view of snow on the Owley Wood housing estate in Weaverham, Cheshire, today People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today A Volvo crashed in Warrington, Cheshire, today as snowfall continues to affect Britain A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A wintry scene in Northumberland today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Skiers are seen at Glenshee Ski centre in Scotland today during the severe weather Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today An Amur tiger in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Heavy snow falls in Hulme, Greater Manchester, this morning as the severe weather continues An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A car drives through floodwater in Yalding, Kent, this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning An aerial photograph taken by drone shows the sun rising behind the Royal Liver building today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning Light snow on the ground in the Oxfordshire village of Dunsden this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Camels in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning National Highways said three stretches of A-roads across England were shut today: The A1 in Lincolnshire was closed in both directions between the B6326 near Newark-on-Trent and the B1174 near Grantham because of 'extensive flooding'; The A628 Woodhead Pass in South Yorkshire/Derbyshire was shut in both directions between the A616 for Flouch and the A57 for Hollingworth because of snow; The A34 in Berkshire was closed southbound from the A339 for Donnington and the A4 for Newbury to allow emergency barrier repairs. It is not known if this is weather-related. Wintry weather was also disrupting several train operators in England: Flooding meant all rail lines were closed between Peterborough and Leicester, affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services; Northern said a fault with the signalling system meant no trains could run between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester airport; Great Western Railway said flooding had closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall; Flooding near Hooton in Cheshire stopped Merseyrail services between Hooton and Chester. A critical incident was declared by East Midlands Ambulance for the first time ever, with flooding partly responsible for the 'level of escalation'. Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A car drives past a van stranded in floodwater in Yalding, Kent, this morning A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning An Andean bear in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today A drone view of the River Weaver in Weaverham, Cheshire, today following snowfall Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning A major incident was also declared by authorities in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire last night, with a warning of more flooding today. Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said 40 flood warnings and 29 flood alerts were in place across the county, with reports of 62 properties 'internally flooded'. 'We are keeping a really close watch on this as it develops because we know that there might potentially be more flooding, particularly in areas which may be affected by tidal waters,' a statement said. It also said emergency services were on standby at Greatford, near Stamford, to monitor the West Glen River, which it said threatened to inundate 49 properties in the area. Murray Turner, a Liberal Democrat councillor at South Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire, said people living in a flooding hotspot were 'waiting for the next inevitable incident'. Mr Turner told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that rescue operations had been going on 'all day' on Monday. Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning Baboons in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice A van stranded in floodwater in Yalding, Kent, today as warnings remain in force Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning Andean bears in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today The area faced bad flooding at the end of 2023 and Mr Turner said Lincolnshire County Council had been expected to produce a section 19 report to explain the flooding and how agencies could work together to better deal with it in future. 'Now, despite much pressure from the local parish councillors and myself as district councillor throughout 2024, those section 19 reports have never been received,' Mr Turner said. 'So what's been happening is we're waiting for the next inevitable flooding incident and it's producing very bad scenes in the village. You're walking through silty mud in your front room and you've got no power. It's not very good at all.' A caravan owner was rescued after floodwater stranded him in his home at Proctors Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar. Four members of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were seen wading through deep water surrounding caravans this morning pulling an inflatable raft on which the man sat holding a blue carrier bag. Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today A baboon in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning An Iberian wolf in the snow Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow in Handforth, Cheshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force Bystanders watching the rescue said the flooding was the deepest they had seen. Neil Monteith, 49, owns a caravan on the front row of the park, adding that he no longer lives in it but has 'never seen' the flooding this bad before. He said: '(The water) is the highest I've seen it, I've never seen it this bad before.' Mr Monteith added that he only keeps furniture inside but said that it is 'more than likely' damaged. Firefighters in Leicestershire rescued 59 people, while the body of a man was recovered from an area of flooding in North Yorkshire. 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. 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. Hundreds of schools were closed across the country, in areas including Lancashire, Yorkshire and North East Scotland. 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 Government's approach to funding flood defences 'to ensure the challenges facing businesses and rural and coastal communities are taken into account when delivering flood protection'. TV hardman Ant Middleton has hinted he wants to challenge Sadiq Khan to be London's new mayor - as he outlined a plan to 'cleanse' the city's blood-soaked streets and 'reinstate British culture' in the capital. The former SAS: Who Dares Wins presenter, 44, raged Britain was 'rotting from its core' and claimed London was now 'one of the murder capitals of the world'. Afghanistan veteran Middleton, who served in the UK's elite Special Boat Service - the sister unit of the SAS, said the capital's under-fire mayor, Sadiq Khan, 'has to go'. And the military tough guy - who is an outspoken supporter of Nigel Farage's Reform UK - also lashed out at Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, demanding he is kicked from office, too. Writing on X, father-of-five Ant said: 'We need to free both our country and its capital simultaneously from their twisted grips (putting it politely) if we are to ever rebuild Britain back to a bigger, better and more unified version of itself. 'With these two at the helm, division will always be at the bow! Secure the perimeter and cleanse from the inside' Middleton, who was sacked from his role as chief instructor on the Channel 4's SAS: Who Dares Wins? back in 2021 over a series of controversial tweets, also appears eager to step into the frontlines of politics. In recent weeks the former soldier has been ramping up his political action on social media - branding the PM 'spineless' while sharing posts from Reform UK. Special forces veteran Ant Middleton has hinted that he wanted to run for London Mayor The TV personality also lashed out at current mayor Sadiq Khan (pictured), saying he 'needs to go' over the handling of the capital's knife crime epidemic Over the weekend he sparked speculation that he wanted to become a future MP or to take on Mayor Khan in the next London mayoral election. 'Would love to see you as a Reform MP, or Mayor of London,' one fan wrote to Middleton, in which the SBS veteran replied: 'Very interesting indeed!' On Monday, the TV personality said that he had a 'feeling' his 'duties will be reinstated once again' after being told by a fan 'your county needs you, Ant'. And this morning Middleton this morning appeared to double down on a future bid to become London mayor by setting out a series of 'priorities' to tackle the city's knife crisis. 'Priority number one; Cleanse it from being one of the murder capitals of the world,' he wrote on X. 'Cleanse it from knives, machetes and guns that are not only killing UK citizens but also our children. Cleanse it from minors & woman being harassed and abused. 'Cleanse its roads from illegal vehicles (and drivers) that are being used to commit countless crimes on a daily basis. Cleanse it from the ridiculous charges that it imposes on an already heavily taxed country. 'Cleanse the tube, public transport and streets, they're disgusting for a capital city. Cleanse the ridiculously low and double standards of our Metropolitan Police Force so everyone is treated fairly but predominantly feel safe to roam its historic streets. 'Reinstate, celebrate and place to the forefront our wonderful British culture, heritage, values and morals and make London the heartbeat of our country once again. London must set and lead by example.' Ant Middleton is a keen supporter of Reform UK. He is seen in September 2024 giving a speech at the party's rally in Birmingham Middleton has also hinted at wanting to become London's new mayor - and hasn't ruled out running as an prospective parliamentary candidate for Reform UK However, Middleton has come under fire for the using the phrase 'cleanse' in his tweets. 'Cleanse? Ethnically? Is that what you mean Ant?' one person wrote on X. In September Middleton took to the stage at Reform UK's rally in Birmingham, where he warned the UK was on the brink of 'civil unrest' unless action was taken to put British culture at the 'forefront of everything'. Middleton said an 'umbrella identity of British culture' was needed to ensure there are 'rules and regulations which everyone needs to adhere to' and prevent division. He also said the UK needed to toughen up its borders and tackle the illegal migrant crisis. 'We haven't got a secure camp because we don't know who's coming in,' he said. They're certainly not benefitting the environment, they're certainly not adhering to the rules and regulations and they're certainly not benefitting us as a nation The comments come amid a surge in the number of illegal migrants reaching the UK's shores. Figures showed that in 2024, some 36,816 asylum seekers travelled across the Channel in small boats - higher than the 2023 total of 29,437. Figures showed that in 2024, some 36,816 asylum seekers travelled across the Channel in small boats - higher than the 2023 total of 29,437. Ant Middleton has previously spoken out about the need to improve Britain's borders However, the highest recorded figures are for 2022, when 45,755 people made the crossing. Meanwhile, in London Mayor Khan remains under pressure to tackle the knife crime epidemic blighting the city. Last year he was criticised by former Tory PM Rishi Sunak over his record to tackle stabbings in the capital. Mr Sunak said that under Mayor Khan, London had been the only place in the UK not to meet its police recruitment targets. The former PM added: 'Knife crime is rising in London, where it is falling outside of London. The one place in the country that has not met its police recruitment targets is London under Sadiq Khan. That's what the reality of Labour in power means.' Recent figures show knife crime in the capital has surged. In the year ending June 2024, London recorded 15,859 knife crimes, a 16 per cent increase from the previous year. This is the highest number of knife crime offences reported in London since 2019/20. Meanwhile in 2023/24, London had a homicide rate of 13.1 per million people - which is the highest in the UK. However, the figure is comparable with other European cities and is lower than many major US cities, with New York's rate in 2023 being 46 murders per million people, while Chicago had more than 220 killings per million, and Philadelphia had more than 250. Pictured is London Mayor Sadiq Khan in November 2024 Figures show some improvements in crime statistics though, with knife crime incidents involving someone under 25 down by 24 per cent last year compared to May 2016, when Mr Khan was elected as mayor. And teen homicide rates in London are at their lowest levels since 2012. A spokesperson for the Mayor of London added: 'Nothing is more important to the Mayor than keeping Londoners safe and he is determined to do all he can to tackle violence, crime and its complex causes. 'Against the backdrop of huge cuts to policing and vital youth services by the previous government, the Mayor has invested record amounts in the Met Police and his Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) the first of its kind in England and Wales which continues to lead an approach to tackling violence which is rooted in prevention and early intervention and has provided 350,000 positive opportunities to divert young people away from crime. 'Thanks to the hard work of the Met, VRU and partners, the number of young people being injured with knives is down and while one death is one too many, there were fewer teenage homicides in London last year compared to any year since 2012. 'The latest ONS figures also show that the violent crime rate is lower in London than in the rest of the country but clearly there is still much more work to do which is why Sadiq is working with partners, the police, communities and Government to ensure we build on the progress being made to make London safer for everyone.' At least five people have died in a bitter winter storm sweeping parts of the United States as seven states declared emergencies, closed schools and cancelled flights. Two people in their 20s were killed when their vehicle rolled down an embankment in Kansas. Separately, a man's body was found at a bus shelter in Houston. He is believed to have died from the cold, Sky News reports. The immense storm sweeping the nation is set to envelop the southern US today, affecting areas that usually avoid winter's wrath, including Florida and Dallas. Temperatures are forecast to dip into the teens to low-20s from Texas across the Gulf Coast, according to the National Weather Service. A low-pressure system is then expected to form tomorrow near south Texas and could bring snow to Dallas, as well as to Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. Around 190,000 people from Maryland to Missouri woke up without power on Tuesday as the storm made its way across the country, according to poweroutage.us. Nearly a third of those affected were in Virginia, where up to a foot of snow was recorded. Icy conditions are expected to affect a swathe of the country for weeks. The polar vortex that dipped south over the weekend kept much of the country east of the Rockies in its frigid grip yesterday. Studies show a fast-warming Arctic is partly to blame for the increasing frequency of the polar vortex extending its icy grip over swathes of the US. Grey clouds indicate ice clouds, while blue shows liquid water clouds such as fog and stratus over the US early on January 7, 2025 Heavy snow falls as a person walks along U.S. Route 42 in Florence, Ky., Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 Your browser does not support iframes. People walk next to a snowman near the U.S. Capitol as a winter storm brought snow, on Mon Ice and snow blanketed major roads in Kansas, western Nebraska and parts of Indiana, where the National Guard was activated to help stranded motorists. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for Kansas and Missouri, where blizzard conditions brought wind gusts of up to 45 mph. The warnings extended to New Jersey into early Tuesday. A Kentucky truck stop was jammed with big rigs forced off an icy and snow-covered Interstate 75 on Monday just outside Cincinnati. A long haul driver from Los Angeles carrying a load of rugs to Georgia, Michael Taylor said he saw numerous cars and trucks stuck in ditches and was dealing with icy windshield wipers before he pulled off the interstate. 'It was too dangerous. I didnt want to kill myself or anyone else,' he said. The eastern two-thirds of the US dealt with bone-chilling cold and wind chills Monday, with temperatures in some areas far below normal. In Missouri, a man suffered a fatal injury while removing snow, NBC reports. Reuters reports that a man also died in southeast Virginia when he lost control of his pick-up truck. Police cited alcohol and weather as factors in the crash. A cold weather advisory will take effect early Tuesday across the Gulf Coast. In Texas' capital of Austin and surrounding cities, wind chills could drop as low as 15 degrees (minus 9.4 C). The Northeast was expected to get several cold days. 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. Virginia State Police responded to at least 430 crashes Sunday and Monday, including one that was fatal. A person walks his dog near the Capitol during a winter snow storm in Washington, Monday Workers clear the plaza at the Capitol as snow falls in Washington, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 People engage in a snowball fight as U.S. flags, along the base of the Washington Monument, fly at half-staff in memorial to former President Jimmy Carter, in Washington, Monday Police said other weather-related fatal accidents occurred Sunday near Charleston, West Virginia, and Monday in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Kansas saw two deadly crashes over the weekend. More than 2,300 flights were canceled and at least 9,100 more were delayed nationwide as of Monday night, according to tracking platform FlightAware. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport reported that about 58 per cent of arrivals and 70 per cent of departures had been canceled. A record 8 inches (more than 20 centimeters) of snow fell Sunday at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, leading to dozens of flight cancellations that lingered into Monday. About 4 inches (about 10 centimeters) fell Monday across the Cincinnati area, where car and truck crashes shut at least two major routes leading into downtown. In Indiana, snow covered stretches of Interstate 64, Interstate 69 and US Route 41, leading authorities to plead with people to stay home. 'It's snowing so hard, the snow plows go through and then within a half hour the roadways are completely covered again,' State Police Sgt. Todd Ringle said. A person holds an umbrella as they walk during a winter storm, January 6, 2025, in Cincinnati Snow covers homes during a winter storm, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Cincinnati Law enforcement officers stand guard at the Capitol as snow falls in Washington, Monday The Mid-Atlantic region had been forecast to get another 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) of snow on Monday. Dangerously cold temperatures were expected to follow, with nighttime lows falling into the single digits (below minus 12.7 C) through the middle of the week across the Central Plains and into the Mississippi and Ohio valleys. In North Texas, 2 to 5 inches (about 5 to 13 centimeters) of snow was expected beginning Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. Snow could also hit Oklahoma and Arkansas, with some parts potentially getting more than 4 inches (about 10 centimeters). School closings were widespread, with districts in Indiana, Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri and Kansas canceling or delaying the start of classes Monday. Among them was Kentuckys Jefferson County Public Schools, which canceled classes and other school activities for its nearly 100,000 students. Classes were also canceled in Maryland, where Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency Sunday and announced that state government offices would also be closed Monday. Government offices also were closed Monday in Kentucky, where Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency. Snow covers vehicles parked at the Helix Garage in downtown Lexington, Ky., on Monday A pedestrian makes their way though a tunnel along the snow-covered Monon Trail in Carmel, Ind., Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 A runner makes his way through a snow-covered street in Indianapolis, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 Many were in the dark as temperatures plunged. More than 218,000 customers were without power Monday night across Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, West Virginia, Illinois, Missouri and North Carolina, according to electric utility tracking website PowerOutage.us. In Virginia's capital city, a power outage caused a temporary malfunction in the water system, officials said Monday afternoon. Richmond officials asked those in the city of more than 200,000 people to refrain from drinking tap water or washing dishes without boiling the water first. The city also asked people to conserve their water, such as by taking shorter showers. City officials said they were working nonstop to bring the system back online. Keir Starmer is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk and fury at 'smearing' those calling for a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. The PM will gather his Cabinet this morning as ministers consider how to respond to the growing furore. Sir Keir fueled the backlash after swiping yesterday that politicians who want an overarching probe into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were 'amplifying what the far-Right are saying'. As it tries to quell the row, the government has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is tabling a Commons amendment designed to force a vote on an inquiry. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the previous independent inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, said this morning that 'people should just get on with' implementing its recommendations rather than holding another one. Keir Starmer is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk In a continuing tirade of attacks on Sir Keir, Mr Musk (pictured with Donald Trump) suggested the PM was 'complicit' in failure to tackle the abuse while director of public prosecutions The latest phase of the scandal erupted when it emerged that the government had rejected a request from Oldham Council for a national inquiry into historical child sexual exploitation - saying the local authority should lead it instead. Tesla tycoon Mr Musk pushed the issue up the agenda by wading in on his X social media site. In a continuing tirade of attacks on Sir Keir, he suggested the PM was 'complicit' in failure to tackle the abuse while director of public prosecutions. Mr Musk has also insisted Sir Keir should be in 'prison', and asked followers whether the US should 'liberate' Britain from 'tyrannical government'. Grilled at a press conference yesterday, the PM described child sexual exploitation as 'utterly sickening'. But he robustly 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'. However, 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 doesn't need more consultation. It doesn't need more research. It just needs action.' Ms Badenoch accused 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'.' 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. Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick insisted it is 'not about Elon Musk' and his focus is on the victims. Asked whether the Conservatives had done enough to tackle the issue in government, Mr Jenrick repeatedly told BBC Breakfast 'more needs to be done'. He said: 'Clearly more needed to be done, that's why I think we have to take this forward, that's why we do need to have a fully national inquiry.' Arguing that 'a number of significant steps were taken' by Conservative home secretaries, Mr Jenrick also called for perpetrators to receive whole-life sentences. As it tries to quell the row, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse Kemi Badenoch accused the PM of 'applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago' He said: 'I have long advocated going further than that and saying you should have a full-life sentence if you are a grooming gang perpetrator, so you never see the light of day, so you go to jail, you don't step foot out on the streets of our country in 10 years or so, as is happening at the moment. 'This is one of the most appalling racially aggravated crimes in our country's history. It must be taken more seriously by everyone.' 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.' Sources close to Melania Trump have revealed what the soon-to-be First Lady really thinks of her husband's 'bromance' with billionaire Elon Musk. Melania is reportedly unbothered by the increasing amount of time Musk has spent at her Mar-A-Lago home in West Palm Beach since November's election. It is understood she views Trump's relationship with the tech billionaire as a 'net positive' and one insider expects the incoming First Lady might find her own ways to partner up with the Tesla owner. Speaking to People one source in Palm Beach went as far to claim that Melania will be happy to have a 'babysitter' for her husband adding that she makes the best of things she can't control. The source said: 'Melania has her own life and isn't bothered by political dealings her husband has with others. But so far, she has no issues with Musk.' Another source added that the 54-year-old tends to stay out of her husband's political dealings. This is despite their Mar-a-Lago estate becoming a base for prominent Republican politicians during and after the campaign - with Trump hosting multiple rallies there. A source said: 'For the most part, she is not involved with subjects her husband is discussing with Musk or anyone else hanging around him. Right now, Trump has a lot of people wanting things from him. She is all too aware of that.' Melania Trump greets Elon Musk at a New York rally in October 2024. Melania is reportedly unbothered by the increasing amount of time Musk has spent at her Mar-A-Lago home in West Palm Beach since November's election Elon Musk embraces President-elect Trump at a test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket on November 19, 2024. It is understood she views Trump's relationship with the tech billionaire as a 'net positive' Melania in Mar-a-Lago in November 2024. Speaking to People one source in Palm Beach went as far to claim that Melania will be happy to have a 'babysitter' for her husband adding that she makes the best of things she can't control It has also been claimed that Melania will likely be looking for her own ways to collaborate with Musk on issues with their own relationship being described as 'smooth up to this point'. During her previous tenure as First Lady, Melania fronted the Be Best campaign which advocated for action to be taken to protect young Americans from cyberbullying. Since October 2022, Musk has owned X, formerly Twitter, which is one of the world's leading social media sites meaning Musk could provide expertise on how to monitor behavior online. Since Trump's landslide victory on November 5, Musk has become an almost omnipresent figure at Mar-a-Lago and the Space X owner even spent Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve at the estate. In December, it was rumored that Musk was eyeing up a $100m penthouse just a short seven minute drive from Trump's home. This is a rumor Musk has since denied. It has also been claimed that Melania will likely be looking for her own ways to collaborate with Musk on issues with their own relationship being described as 'smooth up to this point' Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate. Since Trump's landslide victory on November 5, Musk has become an almost omnipresent figure at his West Palme Beach home Musk is expected to play a key role in Trump's incoming administration. He is going to head the brand new Department of Government Efficiency, or 'Doge' for short, alongside former Republican Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Although it has 'department' in its name it is not an official US government department. Instead Doge will advise Trump's White House on how to cut costs to make the government smaller. Three people remain missing and four others have been injured after a seaplane crashed near a popular tourist spot. The aircraft plunged into the water near Thompson Bay on Rottnest Island, 19km off the coast of Perth, about 4pm on Tuesday. Emergency services including water police and two RAC Rescue helicopters were among dozens of first responders involved in the major search and rescue operation. Of the four people rescued from the water, three were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries. Another three that were on board are unaccounted for. 'Water Police and a number of civilian vessels provided immediate aid in an attempt to assist in the rescue,' WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch said. 'This is very much an unfolding situation and we are working to ascertain the details.' The privately owned aircraft hit the water at Phillip Rock at the entrance of Thompson Bay. The aircraft (pictured) plunged into the water near Thompson Bay on Rottnest Island, around 19km off the coast of Perth, about 4pm on Tuesday Four people were rescued from the water with three airlifted to hospital (pictured) Commissioner Blanch thanked witnesses, who assisted with the rescue effort. 'I do want to reassure the community that we have significant resources at [the] scene and we are doing everything that we can,' Commissioner Blanch said. It's knot yet know why the plane crashed. Shocked witnesses described the scenes as chaotic. 'I saw two injured people. One guy was limping. He needed support to get off the boat. He would have been in his late 30s maybe,' Elisa Meazzi told Perth Now. 'Then a woman in her 50s. Then one in her 20s.' Another witness heard the sounds of police and emergency service vehicles and saw water police surrounding the wreckage. 'We didn't know what had happened because we were on the other side of the island, so we drove past and then we saw these helicopters and we thought there must have been a plane crash,' he said. Others spotted the plane moving from side to side moments before the left wing hit the water, Nine News reports. Four people including the three, who suffered serious injuries, were rescued from the water and have been airlifted to hospital following the light plane crash (pictured) Phone from the scene showed the front half of the small seaplane submerged into the water. Several parts of the plane were damaged, including the wings. The plane, which is a Cessna 208 Caravan 675, is operated by Swan River Seaplanes. The aircraft is understood to have only arrived in Wester Australia on New Year's Day from Sydney. The plane can carry up to 14 passengers and the model was built and registered in 2016. Some witnesses noticed the plane moving side to side before the left wing (pictured centre) hit the water Swan River Seaplanes Director Kristy Bailey told the newspaper the company is working with authorities to ensure the safety of those on board the plane. 'Our priority is our pilot and passengers,' Ms Bailey said. Rottnest Island, which is also known as Wadjemup, is a popular tourist spot which attracts thousands of visitors each year. The island, which is also home to the world-famous marsupial quokkas, has a small airport and various companies offer flights to and from the mainland. Has your flight been disrupted by snow? Email: mark.duell@mailonline.co.uk Four major airports closed across Britain today as heavy snowfall, icy conditions and sub-zero temperatures caused further havoc with hundreds of flights disrupted. Manchester Airport temporarily shut both of its runways for the third day in a row today due to heavy snow, with flights diverted and more delays expected later. Bristol Airport suspended all flights for a period this morning due to the snow, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport closed for snow clearing and anti-icing until 10.30am. Aberdeen Airport also paused flights due to 'freezing conditions' with its teams having been 'working throughout the night to clear snow and de-ice the airfield'. Met Office warnings for snow and ice remained in force across much of the UK after severe flooding and blizzards caused motorway closures and shut railway lines, while there were even flurries in London this morning as commuters headed to work. Post-Christmas bin collections have also been disrupted in areas including Sheffield, Leeds, Calderdale, Kirklees, Macclesfield and Flintshire because of the conditions. The Met Office said up to 4in (10cm) of snow would fall over higher ground into this morning, then a further 4in in 15 hours tomorrow in the South. And there were reports of 'thundersnow' in Scotland as thunderstorms formed in the wintry conditions. More than 350 schools were closed due to the weather today as West Yorkshire made up the majority with 177 closures in Bradford, 95 in Kirklees and 48 in Leeds. Temperatures fell to -8.1C (17F) in the Highlands early this morning, while the low in England was -5C (23F) at both Topcliffe in North Yorkshire and Shap in Cumbria - after yesterday was the UK's coldest night of winter so far with -13.3C (8.1F). A snow and ice alert will remain in place for South West England and Wales, North Wales and parts of North West England and the West Midlands until 10am today. A similar warning will be in place for western and northern Scotland until midday today, and in Northern Ireland until 11am. A separate snow warning for southern England, including South London, then runs tomorrow from 9am until midnight. Aberdeen Airport paused flights amid 'freezing conditions' today as ploughs cleared the snow Bristol Airport suspended all flights for a period this morning due to the heavy snow conditions A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Light snow falls on a residential street in Kilburn, North West London, this morning Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning The Environment Agency has 201 flood warnings (in red) and 300 flood alerts (in amber) today The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning, meaning danger to life, for the River Soar covering caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire. Across England, there were a further 201 flood warnings for 'expected' flooding and 300 alerts for 'possible' flooding. Natural Resources Wales also issued 15 alerts. Manchester Airport said this morning that it had reopened its two runways after closing them for the third consecutive day because of snow. The airport said at 2am that the runways were closed 'due to heavy snow', and soon after 5am said they had reopened. It said: 'Our runways are now open, but as a result of the earlier closure, some departures and arrivals may still experience delays. Please check with your airline for the latest updates and allow extra time for your journey.' At least 23 flights due to arrive at Manchester between 4.40pm yesterday and 1am today were diverted to other airports, affecting around 4,000 passengers. Bristol Airport said at 8am that flights had resumed, after they were suspended earlier today because of 'the ongoing weather conditions'. One Ryanair flight from Kaunas in Lithuania to Bristol was diverted to Stansted during the suspension. A drone view of snow on the Owley Wood housing estate in Weaverham, Cheshire, today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Heavy snow falls in Hulme, Greater Manchester, this morning as the severe weather continues Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice An aerial photograph taken by drone shows the sun rising behind the Royal Liver building today Light snow on the ground in the Oxfordshire village of Dunsden this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force A drone view of the River Weaver in Weaverham, Cheshire, today following snowfall National Highways said three stretches of A-roads across England were shut today: The A1 in Lincolnshire was closed in both directions between the B6326 near Newark-on-Trent and the B1174 near Grantham because of 'extensive flooding'; The A628 Woodhead Pass in South Yorkshire/Derbyshire was shut in both directions between the A616 for Flouch and the A57 for Hollingworth because of snow; The A34 in Berkshire was closed southbound from the A339 for Donnington and the A4 for Newbury to allow emergency barrier repairs. It is not known if this is weather-related. Wintry weather was also disrupting several train operators in England: Flooding meant all rail lines were closed between Peterborough and Leicester, affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services; Northern said a fault with the signalling system meant no trains could run between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester airport; Great Western Railway said flooding had closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall; Flooding near Hooton in Cheshire stopped Merseyrail services between Hooton and Chester. A critical incident was declared by East Midlands Ambulance for the first time ever, with flooding partly responsible for the 'level of escalation'. Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning Snow in Handforth, Cheshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force A major incident was also declared by authorities in Lincolnshire and Leicestershire last night, with a warning of more flooding today. Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said 40 flood warnings and 29 flood alerts were in place across the county, with reports of 62 properties 'internally flooded'. 'We are keeping a really close watch on this as it develops because we know that there might potentially be more flooding, particularly in areas which may be affected by tidal waters,' a statement said. It also said emergency services were on standby at Greatford, near Stamford, to monitor the West Glen River, which it said threatened to inundate 49 properties in the area. Murray Turner, a Liberal Democrat councillor at South Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire, said people living in a flooding hotspot were 'waiting for the next inevitable incident'. Mr Turner told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that rescue operations had been going on 'all day' on Monday. TODAY: Met Office snow and ice warnings are in place for many parts of the UK this morning TOMORROW: A fresh Met Office warning for snow will run tomorrow from 9am until midnight The area faced bad flooding at the end of 2023 and Mr Turner said Lincolnshire County Council had been expected to produce a section 19 report to explain the flooding and how agencies could work together to better deal with it in future. 'Now, despite much pressure from the local parish councillors and myself as district councillor throughout 2024, those section 19 reports have never been received,' Mr Turner said. 'So what's been happening is we're waiting for the next inevitable flooding incident and it's producing very bad scenes in the village. You're walking through silty mud in your front room and you've got no power. It's not very good at all.' Firefighters in Leicestershire rescued 59 people, while the body of a man was recovered from an area of flooding in North Yorkshire. 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. 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. Hundreds of schools were closed across the country, in areas including Lancashire, Yorkshire and North East Scotland. 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 Government's approach to funding flood defences 'to ensure the challenges facing businesses and rural and coastal communities are taken into account when delivering flood protection'. Nigel Farage lashed out at US politicians for supporting 'thuggish' Tommy Robinson today - as he tried to mend his relationship with Elon Musk. The Reform UK leader criticised rightwing Americans who believe the incarcerated former EDL leader is a 'political prisoner' and said he was trying to 'educate' them. Mr Musk on Sunday called for Mr Farage to be replaced as Reform leader, after he refused to follow the X owner and Donald Trump aide in calling for Robinson - real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - to be freed. The pint-sized far-right leader is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court over social media messages about a teenage migrant, which began in October. American multi-billionaire Musk has spent the past week fixated on UK politics, specifically over British Asian sex abuse gangs in northern towns. But speaking to LBC radio today Mr Farage said that while he wanted to 'mend fences' with Musk at Trump's inauguration later this month, supporting Robinson was not going to happen. 'Many of my American friends have seen one side of the Robinson story. He says he is in prison for exposing the grooming gangs and they go ''oh my goodness me, this is dreadful, he is a political prisoner'',' he said. 'The fact is he has been in prison many times over the years - three times for contempt of court - and once he almost brought down a trial at which gang rapists were ultimately convicted. The Reform UK leader criticised rightwing Americans who believe the incarcerated former EDL leader is a 'political prisoner' and said he was trying to 'educate' them. Mr Musk on Sunday called for Mr Farage to be replaced as Reform leader, after he refused to follow the X owner and Donald Trump aide in calling for Robinson - real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - to be freed. The pint-sized far-right leader is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court over social media messages about a teenage migrant, which began in October. 'I am on a campaign in America at the moment to educate people as to just who Tommy Robinson really is.' Asked if the government agreed with Mr Farage the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'It is absolutely the case that, as the PM said, those who are cheerleading Tommy Robinson are not interested in delivering justice for victims. 'It is important that people know that he went to prison for nearly collapsing a grooming case, so people who are cheerleading his cause are acting actively against delivering for the victims that the PM is interested in delivering for.' Speaking during the phone-in, the Reform leader said he would be in the United States 'for a good sort of four or five days' for Donald Trump's inauguration as president. 'I have no desire to go to war with Elon Musk and I'm not going to, and I haven't done. I'm a huge admirer of him, I think he's an heroic figure,' Mr Farage said. Asked whether losing his support would weaken Reform UK, he added: 'Not having Elon's support would damage us with that younger generation because he kind of makes us look cool, so I'm being frank about that and I am confident that whatever has been said, we can mend. I really think we can.' He added: 'It's not crucial. I mean look, if I was to embrace, as it looks like I was being urged to do, the sort of violent thuggish people like (Tommy) Robinson, that would do our party immense harm, and probably rightly so. 'So the fact that I've stood up on a point of principle, even if in the short term its to my detriment, in the long run may even work in our favour. 'Of course I want his support, of course I will talk to him in America in a few days' time, of course I want to mend any broken fences that might exist. I'm sure we can do it.' Asked whether losing his support would weaken Reform UK, he added: 'Not having Elon's support would damage us with that younger generation because he kind of makes us look cool, so I'm being frank about that and I am confident that whatever has been said, we can mend. I really think we can.' The Reform leader also said Musk's description of Home Office minister Jess Phillips as a 'rape genocide apologist' did not go 'beyond the line'. The Reform UK leader said he did not 'concur' with the description. But asked if he would address Mr Musk's comments about Ms Phillips when he met the billionaire, Mr Farage said: 'If he was inciting violence, then that would be going beyond the line at which free speech is acceptable. 'It's very, very strong language and it offends many, but then free speech should be able to offend many.' Suggesting the language was chosen because Americans are 'horrified' by reports of child sexual exploitation in the UK, he added: 'You may find it offensive, I don't think it goes beyond the line.' Keir Starmer is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Musk and fury at 'smearing' those calling for a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. The PM gathered his Cabinet this morning as ministers consider how to respond to the growing furore. Sir Keir fueled the backlash after swiping yesterday that politicians who want an overarching probe into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were 'amplifying what the far-Right are saying'. As it tries to quell the row, the government has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is tabling a Commons amendment designed to force a vote on an inquiry, which could come as early as tomorrow. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the previous independent inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, said this morning that 'people should just get on with' implementing its recommendations rather than holding another one. We have a standing committee called the Border Restoration Committee which is tasked with bringing back land that was stolen from Eswatini (Swaziland). This committee has never reported anything to the general public. I might be out of order, but I think there is a lot of public interest in what they do. The land was lost to emaSwati because of concessions to the white settlers around the 1840 and their job was to retrieve as much of that land as possible or come up with a deal for compensation. No Eswatini King had signed the land away. EmaSwati were never defeated in war to warrant the nation to relinquish any of its lands. There are reports that the border restoration committee has signed a draft agreement between Eswatini and South Africa to solve the land dispute amicably, but nothing has been communicated publicly. The case for Eswatini is very strong as all the documentary support required can even stand in the international courts. The fact that the culture and the language within these areas are the same as in Eswatini is reason enough to support the claim. No wonder King Sobhuza II said we are not in any dispute with anyone. All we want is what is ours and if anyone disputes that, then they must show how they got the Land. The committee must have a way of updating the nation about their activities, which is a reasonable request given that they are paid by the public. 2025 should not be just business as usual. Kosi Bay as Compensation Given the complexity of the land issue, I would put forward a compromise that brings this matter to an amicable end. I would propose that emaSwati settles for the Northen Ingwavuma strip to the sea taking Kosi Bay and giving The Kingdom of Eswatini access to the sea. The rest of the Mpumalanga land would be officially given over to South Africa with just one condition; His Majesty the King builds Royal Residences to allow him to visit emaSwati in South Africa for traditional ceremonies annually or periodically, agidze incwala. This will strengthen our African culture and keep our traditions alive until emaswati wish to return home themselves. The main advantage is development for the residents of the kwaNgwanase, also known as Kosi Bay Town. Presently this is a small underdeveloped town in the far Northern Umkhanyakude District Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. The closest small town is Manguzi, some 13 kilometers away from Kosi Bay estuary only 2 kilometers from the Mozambique border. It is possible to walk from the estuary to Ponta do Ouro in only an hour or so. It is one of the quietest beaches in South Africa. The Kosi River Mouth is known as the aquarium because of the clarity of the water and the abundance of fish species. There is no meaningful development in this area. Eswatini would be able to develop the area as its main and only coastal city. South Africa has many coastal cities and Kosi Bay is very marginal to them, beautiful as it is. Our relationship with the Zulu monarchy, Umkhonto WeSizwe (MKP) and the ANC can broker this deal even if it means giving the residents dual citizenship for a while to allow them to continue to benefit during their lifetime. After all, most have earned their benefits. Tourism benefits Eswatini can benefit greatly from the kwaNgwanase, also known as the Kosi Bay area. Kosi Bays three-lake system is part of the Greater St Lucia, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a large variety of birds, including several rare species. The lakes and clear beaches of Kosi Bay are nothing short of magnificent. There is so much going on here in terms of the natural attractions. The birdlife is incredible and the scenery is just unmatched. Our Eswatini Land claim has been laughed at because they claim we want too much, even Pretoria. The development that has taken place throughout Mpumalanga makes it very difficult to successfully win back this land. We can only use our claim to strengthen a position of compensation rather than restoration. Our compensation would be Northen Ingwavuma; at least the development has been very minimal. The population in Northern Ingwavuma is poor and very small in number, hardly twenty thousand. One notes two or three schools and clinics and very few towns and settlements of note. Private lodges and Motels are dotted everywhere along the seafront, but nothing really big. Manguzi town is 13km from Kosi Bay and is the largest community there. This rural little town is equipped with two schools and a hospital, which provide the locals with their basic needs. It occupies only 5.6 square kilometers and is home to about 5 600 people. Mpumalanga is lost but Ingwavuma gives access to the sea The political indoctrination of South African emaSwati is such that it would be very difficult for the traditional structures of the kingdom to function within the greater part of Mpumalanga, should the land be restored to Eswatini. The political party system has been fully entrenched into South African society such that our Traditional governance and Tinkhundla system would simply not function. This would cause a great deal of conflict such that the compromise of Kosi Bay would be a better solution. We can build a great country once we have excess to the sea. The Kosi Bay district would join the Hhohho, Manzini, Shiselweni and Lubombo districts. Great hotels, casinos, shopping malls and infrastructure will be built to receive international shipping lines, private yachts and cruise ships. As well as railway line to support the manufacturing industry from Big Bend directly to Kosi Bay cutting many kilometers to Richards Bay. There would be a lot of work to do but it would be ours to develop. Presently this area is neglected by the South African government. Comment: septembereswatini@gmail.com Elon Musk hit out at a student who accused him of 'rapidly becoming the largest spreader of disinformation in human history' in a foul-mouthed tirade on his platform. Joni Askola, a Finnish PhD candidate who has been critical of Musk's 'interference' in European politics, wrote on X: 'Elon Musk is rapidly becoming the largest spreader of disinformation in human history, hijacking political debates in the process. The EU must take action!' The billionaire X owner, who was not tagged in the statement, found the original post and commented 'F u r*****', using a slur for somebody with a mental disability in apparent violation of the platform's own rules on slurs and tropes. Musk has used the term at least 10 times since April last year, a search of his posts reveals. He has used the term and variants at least 15 times since December 20, according to The Daily Beast. The latest attack came as Musk asked his 209 million followers to 'Please post a bit more positive, beautiful or informative content on this platform' and announced an algorithm 'tweak' to 'promote more informational/entertaining content' as 'too much negativity is being pushed'. He was criticized in the wake of another foul-mouthed spat over immigration visas, telling one of his platform's users to 'f*** yourself in the face'. Musk was separately condemned by European leaders yesterday after coming to blows with the British government over the weekend after claiming the prime minister was 'deeply complicit' in a historical sex offences scandal and calling for him to be imprisoned. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said yesterday that he was 'not going to individualize this to Elon Musk' but warned that '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'. Joni Askola had called Musk out for 'becoming the largest spreader of disinformation' Elon Musk attacked a student after asking X users to post more positive content SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk arrives on stage at an America PAC town hall on October 26, 2024 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania Elon Musk has faced mounting criticism on his own platform amid separate rows over domestic immigration policy and comments on foreign affairs. Amid a burgeoning row over temporary H-1B visas for foreign workers, Donald Trump's chosen efficiency tsar liked a post that said Americans are too 'r*****ed' to fill the country's tech workforce. When X user Steven Mackey was critical of the foreign visa permit, Musk wrote: '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. 'Take a big step back and F*** YOURSELF in the face. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.' The SpaceX internship website notably cites the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) in saying applicants 'must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual... or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State'. Musk has been repeatedly accused of spreading disinformation on his platform, said to have approximately 611 million active monthly users. France 24 reported that in the first three weeks of October last year, he published at least 28 fake news stories on his account, seen more than half a billion times in sum. The Tesla boss shared a doctored Telegraph that falsely stated that Keir Starmer was considering building emergency detainment camps for anti-immigration rioters last year, in the wake of a string of riots across the UK. A standfirst follows, which is also commonly seen on reports by The Telegraph and said: 'The camps would be used to detain prisoners from the ongoing riots as the British prison system is already at capacity.' The Telegraph confirmed the article was fabricated and had never been published by the newspaper on August 8. Musk ultimately deleted his post. Donald Trump and Elon Musk watch the launch of the sixth test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket on November 19 Elon Musk, Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of X looks on during the Milken Conference 2024 Musk has continued his spat with the British center-left Labour government, this week polling users on whether 'America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government'. Again, community moderators were quick to cite figures on press and political freedom in reminding Musk that Britain is not a 'tyranny'. Musk also made an about turn to hit out at British politician Nigel Farage, a Trump ally and leader of the populist Reform party. At one point, Musk was rumored to be considering a donation of up to $100mn to help the rising party compete with the Conservatives and Labour - Britain's two dominant factions. But on Sunday, he wrote that 'the Reform party needs a new leader', apparently after clashing with Farage when the Reform leader distanced himself from far-right agitator Tommy Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, who is currently serving a prison sentence for defying a court order by repeating a libel against a Syrian refugee. Musk has also taken interest in German political affairs, wading in to espouse support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of the upcoming election. 'Only the AfD can save Germany,' Musk wrote on X, prompting backlash from users and politicos watching the resurgence of the far-right in Germany with horror. Elon Musk shared a poll on his platform today, polling users on their support for an American 'liberation' of Britain from what he called its 'tyrannical' centre-left Labour government Musk has espoused support for the far-right AfD party in Germany Musk went on to pen a guest opinion piece for Germany's West am Sonntag newspaper, reifying his support for the party in an expanded commentary. Musk called the AfD the 'last spark of hope' for Germany, claiming the country was 'on the brink of economic and cultural collapse'. Germany's domestic intelligence agency has classified the AfD at the national level as a suspected extremism case since 2021. Bloomberg reported yesterday that Britain's Labour, Conservative and Reform parties have warned team Trump about the interventions in foreign politics. Senior politicians across the political spectrum reportedly told Trump allies in private that the president-elect should reconsider his relationship with Musk, following his inflammatory remarks online. Maggie Haberman, a journalist for the New York Times, said on Kara Swisher's podcast On recently that Donald Trump is tiring of Musk's antics. She told Swisher that 'Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot'. 'I think a bunch of people around him are also struggling with how aggressive Musk can be in their interactions,' Haberman said. Fast-food chain McDonald's has been hit by fresh allegations of sexual and homophobic abuse as staff members allege they have been 'touched up' by managers and offered extra shifts for sex. The chain first faced bombshell claims of widespread sexual abuse and harassment at its stores in July 2023 and has since been reported more than 300 times for harassment to the UK's equality watchdog. Allegations have included racist abuse, sexual assault and harassment and bullying. The watchdog reportedly now intends to intervene again due to the volume of complaints. More current and former employees have since come forward, telling the BBC about further claims of sexual abuse and homophobic harassment. Employees as young as 17 have described a 'toxic' work environment with little to no protection from senior management and no response to complaints. The boss of McDonalds' UK business Alistair Macrow is set to appear in front of MPs for the second time this afternoon as he answers questions from the Commons Business Committee on employment rights from 2.30pm. He previously told MPs in November 2023: 'I am absolutely determined to root out any of these behaviours, to identify individuals who are responsible for them and make sure they are eradicated from our business. McDonalds said the company is 'determined to root out' behaviour which falls below expected standards Ilana Cole, 19, alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed The boss of McDonalds' UK business Alistair Macrow (pictured) is set to appear in front of MPs for the second time this afternoon 'When I became aware of them in the summertime, with the BBC reporting, I immediately took action to start to make a difference.' But former and current employees who have been through the company processes since allegations first came to light have criticised its investigative procedures. One female employee from the Midlands who worked at McDonald's until May 2023 has revealed how a senior manager, who was in his 30s, asked her for sex in exchange for shifts when she was just 17. The worker, named Claire, was employed on a zero-hours contract and relied on picking up shifts to increase her hours and earn money. She described feeling 'dependent' on her managers and said: 'You don't expect that to happen. It was totally inappropriate.' Other employees as young as 16 reported being bullied and yelled at, with a 20-year-old woman telling how a manager sent her topless pictures. Another woman, who quit her job at a West Midlands branch at the end of 2023, told the BBC managers inappropriately touched her and customers harassed her. She claims that when she reported the abuse, she was told to 'suck it up'. Meanwhile Matt quit his Midlands job in 2024 after being bullied and said he witnessed racist behaviour by managers. He said he was harassed for having a learning disability and an eye condition, and claimed other colleagues were 'scared' to go to work. 'It was stuff you noticed, managers and staff being racist to other staff. Managers trying to touch other staff up,' he said. Scotland employee Alan, 19, added he had been subjected to 'degrading' homophobic abuse which involved colleagues using offensive homophobic slurs, both to his face and behind his back. He added he was told it was 'just banter' when he brought up his concerns, and it 'seems like McDonald's don't care'. Liam Byrne, head of the Business Committee which will question Macrow today, said the situation was 'appalling' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe Other employees previously told MailOnline they had been groped, given sexual nicknames such as 'McBike' and were rated on their appearance at work on scoreboards. It was revealed staff members would refer to employees with learning disabilities as 're****s', young women were routinely groped and one store saw managers have a 'scoreboard' for 'sexual conquests'. Ilana Cole, 19, told MailOnline she began working at the chain when she was 16 and was transferred from one branch in Berkshire to another. Upon starting her new role underwent an interview with a manager. 'He started telling me about the differences between this branch and my last branch and said 'Here we're a lot busier, it's like you're getting raped up the a** everyday',' she told MailOnline. 'I was completely shocked that he had just said that but being 16 and naive, I continued to accept the job offer.' When she started working at the restaurant, she claimed matters only got worse. She alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed. She claimed managers discriminated against staff with disabilities and, in her opinion, treating some crew differently because of their nationality. She said the manager 'would get really close behind the younger girls almost pressed right against their back, constantly getting close to the girls and deliberately brushing his hand against their waist or bum, which he did to me too.' At other points, she spoke to other unhappy staff members, including a man from Romania who she claimed only ever worked on the 'fries station' and 'was completely covered in burns and scars that were never reported'. Ms Cole believes he was treated differently because of his nationality. She added: 'I never complained about the behaviour as all of the managers were best friends with each other, so a complaint wouldn't get very far.' Liam Byrne, chair of the Business Select Committee, told the BBC the situation was 'appalling'. 'There is a clear pattern of abuse here that suggests that McDonald's has become a hotbed of harassment and it's incredibly serious,' he said. 'And when the boss of McDonald's came before us last year he promised that he would root out this problem and it's quite clear that he's failed.' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe. They continued: 'Our relentless focus on eliminating all forms of harassment at McDonald's is led by a newly created team and informed by the experience and guidance of external experts. Working at speed they have already rolled-out company-wide programmes to improve safeguarding, drive awareness and enhance training. 'We have also recruited our first Head of Safeguarding and in addition to the four speak up channels already available, and have introduced a new, easy to use, digital speak-up channel, Red Flags.' They added: 'Additionally, the Investigations Handling Unit, led by its newly appointed Director and drawing on independent legal experts, is dedicated to rooting out any behaviour that falls below the high standards we demand of everyone at McDonald's. 'McDonald's agreement with the EHRC was signed in early 2023, with the intention that it continues to evolve to ensure the robust measures we have in place are aligned with any updated guidance. 'We are confident that we are taking significant and important steps to tackle the unacceptable behaviours facing every organisation.' A taxi-driver whose posts on social media were a 'catalyst' for the violent disorder seen in Southport last summer has been jailed for seven and a half years. Liverpool Crown Court was told that Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called 'Southport Wake Up', in the immediate aftermath of the knife attack at a children's dance class in the Merseyside town on July 29 last year. The channel was identified by the group Hope Not Hate as a 'catalyst for and origin of a series of posts' concerning incidents of violence, prosecutor Arthur 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. He also posted a 'clear threat to police' hours before violence broke out in Southport on July 30, writing: 'Message to All ... Stand in our way, even if you're just doing your job ... prepare to fall.' After McIntyre was arrested by officers in Liverpool on August 8, a knife was found hidden in the boot of car and, when his home was searched, officers found weapons and a copy of Hitler's Mein Kampf, the court heard. Sentencing him, Judge Neil Flewitt KC said the defendant was 'prominent' among people responsible for spreading misinformation following the Southport attack. He added that the offence was aggravated because it was motivated by racial hostility and involved attacks on police officers. Liverpool Crown Court was told that Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called 'Southport Wake Up', in the immediate aftermath of the knife attack at a children's dance class in the Merseyside town on July 29 last year Sentencing him, Judge Neil Flewitt KC said the defendant was 'prominent' among people responsible for spreading misinformation following the Southport attack (Pictured: Riot police hold back protesters near a burning police vehicle after disorder broke out in Southport) 'You were motivated by racial hatred, he said. I have no doubt your actions encouraged many people to plan and then to commit offences of both violent disorder and criminal damage.' Mr 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 Crown's 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 Crown's case that one such person is the defendant.' The court was told McIntyre's phone was in the area of St Luke's 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 before the disorder in Southport, the court heard McIntyre posted a map with the caption: 'Mosque at the top of Hart St, and wrote in a later post: 'Rise Up English Lads. 8pm tomorrow St Luke's Rd Southport.' The day after the disorder, he posted: 'Well done last night lads, to all you heavy hitters. A court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of McIntyre from a court appearance on August 16 Judge Neil Flewitt KC said that McIntyre's offence was aggravated because it was motivated by racial hostility and involved attacks on police officers. (Pictured: protesters near a burning police vehicle in Southport) '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. 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 McIntyre's 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: 'We're 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. Nine hospitals have declared critical incidents after flu cases 'skyrocketed' over the Christmas period, leaving some patients facing 50 hour waits to be seen. More than 5,000 patients have been hospitalised with the infection over the Christmas and New Year period, according to NHS data. Last week, there were an average of 4,469 patients with flu in hospital each day almost 3.5 times higher than the same week last year including 211 in critical care. The news comes amid a surge in other winter infections including norovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hMPV, an little-known cold virus that's swept China, causing health services to falter and is now hitting the UK and America. University Hospitals Birmingham is the latest NHS Trust to declare a critical incident across all its hospitals: Heartlands in Bordesley Green, the Queen Elizabeth in Edgbaston, Good Hope in Sutton Coldfield and Solihull. A spokesperson said an 'exceptional number' of flu patients admitted in the first week of January a total 311 inpatients was the reason for the move. Measures including mask-wearing have been introduced across its departments, it added. Earlier, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust sounded the alarm because of a 'significant and rising demand for hospital care.' Your browser does not support iframes. Patients at Liverpool Royal Hospital, pictured, have been told to visit their GPs or to call 111 amid high numbers of people going to is A&E department, unless in an emergency Your browser does not support iframes. The Trust said more than 300 people attended A&E at Derriford Hospital yesterday and nearly 200 of those needed admitting for hospital care. 'We are particularly seeing high numbers of older patients with respiratory problems exacerbated by the cold weather,' a statement said. It comes after Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust declared a critical incident this morning and called on members of the public to help manage the ongoing crisis. The Trust said this was because of 'sustained pressures' at its Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals, including a high admission rate, a high number of infectious patients requiring isolation, and a low discharge rate. Meanwhile, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital has said staff were working incredibly hard to treat patients suffering from 'flu and respiratory illnesses'. Covid-19, RSV and norovirus surged in December, as health chiefs warned this winter could be one of the worst on record. And there are warnings of continued pressure as we continue into 2025, with amber cold alerts for England issued as temperatures are set to drop below freezing. Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has urged people to only go to A&E in a genuine medical emergency, instead asking them to visit their GP or call 111. A spokesperson said the hospital was 'extremely busy' as it dealt with a soaring number of patients suffering from flu and other respiratory conditions. Yesterday, the hospital said its A&E department was at 'full capacity', with patients reporting huge wait times. A spokesperson said: 'Given the exceptionally high demands on our Emergency Department, especially with flu and respiratory illnesses, and the number of patients we have taken this action to support the safe care and treatment of our patients, which is our absolute priority.' Royal Cornwall Hospital, pictured, has said its services were under 'significant pressure' after a critical incident was declared Patients are being urged to use other services, such as their GP, a local pharmacy, or walk-in centre. 'The NHS 111 service can be used to help identify the most appropriate service for you and help avoid long waits,' they added. 'If you are attending our EDs, patients and visitors should follow some additional infection control measures to help curb the spread of winter viruses such as flu and norovirus. 'This includes practicing good hand hygiene, only visiting the areas they need to in our hospitals and wearing masks in clinical areas if asked to do so.' Earlier today top British virus experts called on Chinese authorities to disclose vital information about a worrying outbreak of hMPV, a cold-like virus which is reported to be overwhelming its hospitals. The UK authorities 'need more information on the specific strain circulating' in order to accurately assess the threat to the British public, warned virus expert Dr Andrew Catchpole. Cases of the infection which causes cold-like symptoms are on the rise across the UK, with graphs showing doubling in numbers over the last month. Worryingly, this is primarily being driven by cases in young children who are among the most vulnerable to serious complications official data suggests. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. It comes after last week Royal Cornwall Hospital also declared a critical incident, saying its services were under 'significant pressure'. Bosses reached the decision on Friday evening after a week of sustained pressure on the main hospital and emergency department. Kate Shields, chief executive of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly integrated care board said: 'We are currently seeing a high number of ambulances waiting outside the Royal Cornwall Hospital and of patients in our emergency department. 'There are also a large number of patients in Cornwall's hospitals who are medically fit to be discharged but are awaiting the right care. 'Declaring a critical incident allows the NHS to take additional, immediate steps to create capacity, help discharge patients, relieve pressure on our emergency department and release ambulances and their crews.' She continued: 'We urgently need the public's support to make sure we can see those who are sickest and have the greatest need. Please only come to the emergency department if you have a life or limb-threatening emergency. 'Other NHS services are available, and we encourage you to use them whenever possible. These include our network of minor injury units, our urgent treatment centre at West Cornwall Hospital, out-of-hours GP services, local pharmacies and NHS 111.' Yesterday, the Government announced plans which will see millions more NHS patients receive free treatment in private hospitals in a bid to slash waiting lists. The Prime Minister pledged to make 'better use' of the private sector so sick patients can be seen quicker for a range of issues. GPs will be forced to actively tell patients when they can get their scans, tests or operations at private clinics. And appointments will be booked via an updated NHS App or website, which will tell users their expected waiting times at each NHS and private provider, the distance from their home and their care quality ratings. Norovirus can appear similar the symptoms of Covid, with both viruses causing chills, fever and headaches Patients can then choose between them, with taxpayers footing the bill regardless of the option selected. Critics have questioned how the extra appointments will be delivered given the country's shortage of healthcare staff. The policy is expected to see the number of appointments delivered by the private sector increase by at least a fifth, from 5 million to more than 6 million, each year. It means private providers are likely to pocket an extra 2.5billion a year in government funding taking their annual income from the Department of Health and Social Care to almost 16billion. Health chiefs have previously warned the UK is seeing a 'skyrocketing' of flu cases as data shows flu hospital admissions are quadruple that of a month ago. Figures show 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. More than 4,100 Brits also spent Christmas Day in hospital with the flu. By December 29, this had risen to over 5,000. Rates of the winter vomiting bug norovirus, meanwhile, are also 40 per cent higher than expected for this time of year. Health chiefs fear the 'extreme' and 'dangerous' cold spell set to hit the UK this weekend will continue to pile pressure on already stretched hospitals. Professor Julian Redhead, NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care, said: 'These latest figures show the pressure from flu was nowhere near letting up before we headed into the New Year, skyrocketing to over 5,000 cases a day in hospital as of the end of last week and rising at a very concerning rate. 'On top of flu there is also continual pressure from Covid, while RSV and norovirus hospital cases are also higher than last year, with hospitals putting in place an extra 1,300 beds last week than the same time last year in expectation of this continued pressure from viruses and other demand. 'With what looks like an extreme cold snap expected right across England ahead of the weekend, we know the low temperatures can be dangerous for those who are vulnerable or have respiratory conditions. 'So, if you are at risk, do try and keep warm and make sure you are stocked up on any regular medication. 'Please continue to use NHS 111 and 111 online if you need advice and support for health conditions, and only use 999 or attend A&E in life-threatening emergencies.' The Royal Society of Literature has been flung into chaos after two of its chiefs left after a string of scandals. Chairman Daljit Nagra and director Molly Rosenberg stepped down from the 205-year-old charity after rows over freedom of speech and accusations it lowered its standards to have a 'more diverse' membership. Their departures came amid growing discontent over the leadership of Nagra, who has been chairman since 2020, and Rosenberg, who became director in 2017. Nagra has spent four years as the RSL's chairman after taking over the role from writer and novelist Lisa Appignanesi in 2020 -his term was due to reach an end on 15 January. Rosenberg joined the RSL as an intern in 2010, before becoming Director in 2017. The RSL has been accused of censoring members, including Appignanesi, who is now a freedom of speech campaigner, and former president Dame Marina Warner in the wake of Salman Rushdie's near-fatal stabbing in 2022. Warner had called for the society to 'post a pledge of support' for Rushdie, but she and Appignanesi were supposedly blocked from doing so after being told such a statement 'might give offence'. The society has also been accused of lowering its membership standards as part of a 'diversity' drive and abandoning its requirement for nominees to have at least two works of 'outstanding literary merit'. The Society rejects the accusations and insists that its criteria for consideration as an RSL fellow have not changed. The Royal Society of Literature has been flung into chaos after two of its chiefs Daljit Nagra (pictured) and Molly Rosenberg resigned over a string of scandals Chairman Nagra and director Rosenberg (pictured) stepped down from the 205-year-old charity after a rows over freedom of speech and accusations it lowered its standards to have a 'more diverse' membership The RSL has been accused of censoring members in the wake of Salman Rushdie's (pictured) near-fatal stabbing in 2022 Writer Amanda Craig even claimed that 'although the fellowship was a bit too pale stale and male before' it has now become 'so diluted by younger writers with few books to their name that it is no longer the kind of distinction that it was'. The charity also allegedly failed to show any support towards author Kate Clanchy after she was dropped by her publisher after being accused of using racial stereotypes to describe some of her students. In a separate incident Clanchy was also told by her publisher she could not refer to the Taliban as terrorists in one of her books because they now govern Afghanistan. In March last year, around 70 RSL writers called for an emergency meeting after its magazine was allegedly suspended because one article contained a passage that was 'sympathetic to Palestine'. The writers, which included Margaret Atwood, Kazuo Ishiguro, Ian McEwan and Philip Pullman, wrote an open letter to The Times to express their concern over the 'serious reputational damage' to the 200-year-old organisation. They wrote: 'The evidence seems strong that there was managerial interference in an article that contained a passage sympathetic to Palestinians.' They added that action was needed to 'help to heal the fissures that have opened in the society' and called for an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) in the 'hope the serious issue of attempted censorship can be resolved'. But the society has denied that this was the reason the magazine was pulled. Writer and novelist Lisa Appignanesi (pictured) stepped down as RSL chairman in 2020 The charity also allegedly failed to show any support towards author Kate Clanchy (pictured) after she was dropped by her publisher after being accused of using racial stereotypes to describe some of her students Margaret Atwood (pictured) was also among several RSL writers who called for an emergency meeting after its magazine was allegedly suspended because one article contained a passage that was 'sympathetic to Palestine' Then in July, the row came to a head when 20 senior members of the establishment vowed to boycott its summer party, which is the jewel in the group's social calendar. Describing the mayhem raging behind the scenes, one society fellow told The Spectator: 'It's such a clusterf***. It's such a clusterf***. Everyone is falling out with everyone else. Announcing his departure earlier this week, Nagra said: 'The RSL has made remarkable strides in the past four years with our increased outreach projects, many new prizes, extensive events programme and a significantly improved engagement with the public. 'I am proud to have overseen the first ever governance review in our 204-year history this achievement will improve governance and increase transparency for the future. I look forward to watching the RSL continue to grow and prosper.' Rosenberg added: 'I am hugely proud of all that I have achieved in my time at the RSL, working for and with brilliant writers across the Fellowship. 'I am especially proud of all that has been achieved through the efforts of Council over the years of my tenure, and am grateful for the dedication and imagination of Trustees as well as the incredibly hard-working RSL executive team.' Nagra will step down as chair during the AGM on January 15, after which elections will then be held to fill his role. Meanwhile Rosenberg will leave the RSL on March 31. A fugitive British crime kingpin dubbed 'Don Car-Leone' is to have his 3.5million Bitcoin fortune seized after a judge ruled it was 'drug money'. Gangster Alexander Surin - who earned his nickname for his luxury fleet of high-end supercars - said he made his African crypto hoard by trading gold bullion in Dubai. But a High Court judge dismissed Surin's claims by saying the vast sum of cash was likely laundered money from 'illegal drug trafficking'. Mr Justice Mould has now granted the Crown Prosecution Service the right to seize Surin's cryptocurrency account, held with a company called 'Coinbase Kenya'. The news comes a decade after Surin was forced to surrender three Ferraris, a Rolls-Royce and money from the sale of a Bugatti Veyron to Britain's 'FBI', the National Crime Agency (NCA) as the proceeds of crime. One of the motors, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, was found with more than 800,000 in cash stashed in the boot when it was taken by the authorities. Surin, who is believed to be living a playboy lifestyle in Dubai, claimed his new Bitcoin fortune had been earned lawfully through two sales in the UAE city's gold souk. The crime lord said the deals were with a trader operating out of 'small rooms in shops of buildings' who had no website or bookkeeping records, the court heard. A fugitive British crime kingpin dubbed 'Don Car-Leone' is to have his 3.5million Bitcoin fortune seized after a judge ruled it was 'drug money' Gangster Alexander Surin - who earned his nickname for his luxury fleet of high-end supercars - said he made his African crypto hoard from trading gold bullion However, Martin Evans KC told London's High Court there was 'compelling' evidence to suggest the cash was made through drug dealing or money laundering. Mr Evans said two 'large transfers' into the Bitcoin account had been made by Christian Hargreaves, who has since been jailed in the UK for 17 years for conspiracy to supply class A drugs, during the period covered by the conviction. The barrister said the fact Surin and Hargreaves were British created a 'sufficient' link to launch a proceeds of crime action to seize the crypto assets in the African account, reports the Telegraph. Mr Evans added that apart from two fake invoices, Surin had not given any record detailing how he had made his millions since the seizure of his super cars. In an email response, Surin insisted there was 'no evidence to show my involvement in any criminality to suggest that the bitcoins were the proceeds of crime'. But according to the Telegraph, 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. '(Surin's) alternative explanation, that each was a legitimate gold bullion sale to Panache Jewels LLC, lacks any credibility in the face of the (CPS's) evidence.' Surin had his 1million fleet of supercars seized after he admitted the cars were bought with the proceeds of crime. Among the motors secured by the authorities was a Rolls-Royce Phantom which had 800,000 of cash in the boot. Pictured is Surin's Rolls-Royce Phantom which had 800,000 of cash in the boot when it was seized by police a decade ago The exotic fleet made up of a Ferrari Enzo, Ferrari 599 GTB, Ferrari California and the Rolls-Royce Phantom were sold in June 2015. The NCA had earlier argued that Surin's assets were the result of money laundering, mortgage fraud, tax evasion and the importation into Europe and the UK of multiple tonnes of ketamine. Surin - previously known as Michael Boparan - denied this, but neither he nor his wife chose to contest the evidence at trial. He has previously been arrested in relation to various criminal investigations, but this is the first time his property has been subject to this level of asset recovery. In handing over his supercars, Surin also surrendered his plush London flat, money from the sale of three other London homes, two houses in Kent and cash spread across numerous bank accounts. The deal came just over a year after his wife Jasbinder Boparan denied in court that she was living off her husband's crimes, despite accounts showing that she was spending 17,000 a month. The pair have now accepted that 4.5million of assets seized from them by the NCA were acquired through crime. Prior to fleeing to Dubai after being convicted of drug trafficking in France, Surin would boast about his cars on the Pistonheads and FerrariChat forums. His Enzo is one of just 400 ever built and is one of the most desirable Ferraris. Named after the company's founder, it is capable of doing 217mph. A Florida palliative care doctors forced children to perform sex acts online and helped one 13 year-old girl hang herself, federal prosecutors say. Charges against Dr. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, were announced Monday, over two years on from the unidentified child's suicide. She hanged herself in front of her phone. A subsequent search of the device found chats between the youngster and a man prosecutors say is Leedy, who directed the girl to produce child sex abuse material and choke herself. Leedy, who is said to have gone by the username maximumuncle#9112, is said to have encouraged other children to produce explicit material for him. In a review of court documents by DailyMail.com, most of which contains details too horrifying to publish, authorities say Leedy encouraged the young girl to commit extreme sex acts upon herself while also encouraging self mutilation. Prosecutors say the doctor 'very clearly engaged in this predatory behavior with approximately ten minor victims across the country.' Leedy is said to have spoken to his victims by video-calling them, but kept his screen black and never revealed his identity to victims, the Tampa Bay Times reported. He has a clean medical license with the Florida Department of Health. Florida palliative care doctor Stephen Andrew Leedy has been charged with co-ercing children into sex acts online and helping a 13 year-old girl take her own life Leedy's $1.1m home in St Petersburg, Florida, is pictured. He faces life in jail if convicted of the crimes he's charged of But Leedy faces dying behind bars if convicted of the three counts of production of child sex abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity he now faces. Initial reports said he had worked for Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, before the Chief Medical Office shut down those claims. Dr. Timothy J. Regan said in a statement: 'We are deeply troubled to learn of the recent arrest of Dr. Stephen Leedy. '[Leedy] is not, and never has been, employed by Lakeland Regional Health and there is no record of Dr. Leedy ever treating patients at our hospital. The doctor lives in a $1.1 million home a few blocks back from St Petersburg beach with wife Lynda, who holds a senior executive role with Pinellas County. She is said to have been 'shocked' by news of her husband's arrest. Prosecutors wrote: 'Everything that Leedy instructed these minor victims to do was either physically or mentally detrimental to the minor victims. 'He had absolutely no (regard) for their safety and took advantage of children more than half his age to gratify himself.' Leedy, seen here with his wife Lynda, faces dying behind bars if convicted of the three counts of production of child sex abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity Leedy's wife Lynda, pictured, holds a senior role at Pinellas County, but there is no suggestion she was aware of her husband's alleged crimes Lynda has been the chief administrative officer for Pinellas County's juvenile welfare board for the last 10 years. Her husband's arrest was a 'complete shock' to her, according to a statement issued by Pinellas County on Tuesday morning. Prosecutors say the doctor 'very clearly engaged in this predatory behavior with approximately ten minor victims across the country.' Pinellas County CEO Beth Houghton said she was 'stunned and saddened' for Lynda and that she has the 'utmost confidence' that she can carry on her role as before. Houghton said Lynda did not work with children and was required to complete a stringent background check before her hire, further underlining that she knew nothing about her husband's alleged crimes. The statement concluded: 'During this challenging time, we ask for grace, empathy, and privacy for Ms. Leedy and her family.' Leedy was seen as an authoritative voice on palliative care, which aims to keep terminally-ill people comfortable during their final weeks or months. He spoke about the topic at conferences and traveled to Lancaster University in England to share his expertise with other doctors and medical students. Leedy's lawyers Bjorn Brunvand and Lucas Fleming said in a statement to DailyMail.com: 'Our client, Stephen Leedy adamantly denies the charges that have been filed against him in federal court. 'It is particularly important in moments like this when someone is being accused of very troubling allegations, that we afford him the presumption of innocence. 'We will be entering a not guilty plea at the earliest opportunity and look forward to vigorously defending Dr. Leedy in court.' The ringleader of an Asian grooming gang is still living in the town where he committed his horrific crimes - almost a decade after he was released from jail and told he would be deported. Qari Abdul Rauf is walking around Rochdale 'like he owns the place' according to his shocked neighbours, who cannot understand why he has not yet been kicked out of the country. MailOnline can reveal the 55-year-old has been working for a takeaway delivery app, prompting fears he might meet one of his victims during the course of his work. He is among nine members of the Rochdale grooming gang who were jailed for raping and trafficking young children across England in 2012. Rauf was told he would be deported to Pakistan in 2014 after serving two and half years of a six-year prison sentence. The presence of the former taxi driver in the town where he carried out his crimes adds fuel to the fire over demands that the Government hold a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. Keir Starmer is embroiled in a bitter war of words with Elon Musk, who used his X platform to launch a war of words against the Prime Minister saying he had failed to prosecute the gangs when he was the head of the Crown Prosecution Service. The Prime Minister was accused of 'smearing' those who have demanded another inquiry into the rape of thousands of young girls by predominantly Pakistani men by calling them 'Far Right'. Qari Abdul Rauf is walking around Rochdale 'like he owns the place' according to his shocked neighbours, who cannot understand why he has not yet been kicked out of the country The criminal was told he would be deported to Pakistan in 2014 after serving two and half years of a six-year prison sentence He also accused the Tories, who have backed calls for a new inquiry, of jumping on the bandwagon of campaigners to gain attention. Musk, a close confidante of the new US President Donald Trump and the world's richest man, had also called Jess Philips, the safeguarding minister, a ' rape genocide apologist' for rejecting a call for an inquiry into grooming gangs in Oldham. Much to the anger of campaigners, Ms Phillips instructed Oldham Council in October to launch its own inquiry into sexual exploitation in the town similar to inquiries set up in Rochdale and Telford. A multi-year national inquiry into child sexual abuse gave its recommendations to the previous government in 2022. Rauf, who was stripped of his UK citizenship, was told he would be sent back to Pakistan following his release in November 2014. Immigration Tribunal judges have twice rejected his appeal against deportation in 2020 and 2022. His lawyers have argued he is 'stateless' having renounced his Pakistani citizenship and deportation would breach his right to private and family life under the European Convention on Human Rights. Yet still Rauf remains. His neighbours in Rochdale are disgusted that he is still allowed to live in the same town where he carried out his vile crimes. One disgusted mother, who lives just a few doors away, said: 'Nobody can believe that monster is still here, after what he did to those young girls. PODCAST: Whistleblower Maggie Oliver on how she brought down the Rochdale grooming gangs Rauf with three other members of the Rochdale grooming gang, Shabir Ahmed (top left), Adil Khan (top right) and Abdul Aziz (bottom left) 'It's disgusting. What is the country coming to? Why is he still here? 'He was living in that house when he was offending, my kids used to go around and play with his kids. 'Then I saw the police taking his computer away, I saw it on the news, and I was like 'Oh God, you stay away now kids'. 'He walks backwards and forwards down the street without a care in the world, past children and everything. 'He was delivering for a takeaway app last year. He had the sign on the side of his car. 'I can't believe he was delivering takeaways to peoples' houses, just imagine it - you are one of his victims and you open the door to get your meal and he's there. 'What if he popped up on the doorstep of a girl he abused?' The neighbour said it was known among others on the street that his two daughters went to Pakistan to get married, but Rauf did not go. Rauf's neighbours in Rochdale (pictured) are disgusted that he is still allowed to live in the same town where he carried out his vile crime 'He stayed here. His daughters got wed over there and then came back, but their husbands didn't come back with them,' said the neighbour.' Another resident said: 'My daughters were young when he was committing those horrendous acts against those other young girls. 'My two daughters used to go into his house to play with his girls, when they were also little. 'He should not be back in that house, this street. He should not be in this country. Why has he not been kicked out?' Another neighbour said: 'I see him walking around like he owns the place. There are kids all around here and nobody wants that paedophile around here.' Other members of the Rochdale gang have also successfully avoided being deported. Aldi Khan, 54, has also used the ECHR to avoid being deported while fellow convict Abdul Aziz, known in the rape gang as 'The Master', also managed to avoid being deported following his release from jail. He also abandoned his Pakistani citizenship but was told by the Home Office he could stay. The Home Office has been contacted for comment. Robert Jenrick has hinted at a Tory crackdown on immigration from countries with 'alien cultures' as the grooming gangs row rages. Touring broadcast studios this morning, the shadow justice secretary insisted that government must be 'very careful about who is coming into this country'. The former Cabinet minister was grilled on his remarks last week that the 'failed experiment' of 'mass immigration' was behind the child sex abuse scandal. Mr Jenrick said 'millions of people' have come into the UK in recent times and 'some of these people hold backward attitudes to women'. 'I think that it's very difficult to successfully integrate the very large numbers of people who we have had coming into our country in recent years,' he told the BBC. Pressed on whether he thought former Cabinet minister Sajid Javid or London mayor Sadiq Khan - who have Pakistani heritage - held 'medieval' views, Mr Jenrick said: 'I am saying some people do.' Robert Jenrick has hinted at a Tory crackdown on immigration from countries with ' alien cultures' as the grooming gangs row rages The comments came as Keir Starmer scrambles to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk and fury at 'smearing' those calling for a national inquiry Challenged if he wanted to stop immigration from countries with 'alien cultures', Mr Jenrick said: 'I have always said and this is a point made by Kemi Badenoch, who's the leader of my party, that not all cultures are equal. 'We should be very careful about who is coming into this country and the scale of immigration.' Asked again if immigration from such countries should be stopped, Mr Jenrick said 'nobody frankly could say that integration is working well'. He stressed that the Tories had committed to cutting inflows and having a 'legally binding cap set by Parliament'. The comments came as Keir Starmer scrambles to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk and fury at 'smearing' those calling for a national inquiry. The PM fueled the backlash after swiping yesterday that politicians who want an overarching probe into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were 'amplifying what the far-Right are saying'. Kemi Badenoch has promised a hard cap on immigration to the UK if the Tories return to power Mr Jenrick was grilled on his remarks last week that the 'failed experiment' of 'mass immigration' was behind the child sex abuse scandal As it tries to quell the row, the government has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. The Tories are tabling a Commons amendment designed to force a vote on an inquiry. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the previous independent inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, said this morning that 'people should just get on with' implementing its recommendations rather than holding another one. Two people have been found dead in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue flight that had landed in Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport in Florida. The bodies onboard the flight that departed from JFK Airport in New York were said to have been discovered on Monday evening during a 'routine' post-flight maintenance check. The bodies were found in the plane's landing gear compartment, the airline told DailyMail.com. Officials are investigating how the individuals got onto the plane. Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials began to investigate the deaths. Spokesperson Carey Codd told DailyMail.com that both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. Codd added that autopsies are set to be performed and that the investigation is ongoing but was unable to offer victim identities or further detail. This JetBlue flight was found to have two dead bodies in its wheel well after flying from New York's JFK Airport to Fort Lauderdale International Airport Monday night Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials carried out their investigation into two bodies found in the wheel well of a JetBlue airplane The incident has not impacted operations Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, an airport spokesperson has confirmed The plane, operating flight 1801, departed JFK Airport Monday just before 8pm, flight tracking data showed. The aircraft landed in Fort Lauderdale three hours later. It is unclear at exactly what time officials found the bodies in the landing gear compartment. JetBlue told DailyMail.com: 'On Monday evening, January 6, at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, two individuals were found in the landing gear compartment of one of our aircraft during the routine post-flight maintenance inspection. 'Tragically, both individuals were deceased. At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation. 'This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred.' The deaths have not impacted operations Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, an airport spokesperson has confirmed. On Christmas Eve, a body was found in the wheel well of this United Boeing 787-10 that had flown from Chicago to Kahului Airport in Maui They bear an eerie similarity to another tragic incident in Hawaii on Christmas Eve. That saw a dead body discovered on the wheel of a United Airlines jet that had flown to Kahului Airport in Maui from Chicago. The body - which has still not been identified - was discovered on the wheel well of the Boeing 787-10. United said at the time that it was unclear how the person had gained access to the wheel well. It is unclear if the Fort Lauderdale and Hawaii deaths are in any way linked, or if the Hawaii incident may have inspired the Fort Lauderdale tragedy. Anyone stowing away in the wheel well of an airplane faces prolonged temperatures that sit well below freezing while the airplane cruises at close to 40,000 feet. Migrants have previously died or survived stowing away in the wheel well of planes to travel from Asia or Africa to European countries. But both recent incidents happened within United States airspace, with victims not intending to cross any international borders. Sir, Hidden away on Page 5 of last Mondays edition of the Times of Eswatini was one of the most significant journalistic pieces of 2024. It raises the question: Why did the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) need to visit Lesotho to conduct a benchmarking exercise, merely to highlight issues that many ordinary emaSwati are already acutely aware of? The glaring shortages of drugs, chronic inefficiencies and pervasive corruption in the health sector are well-documented and require no further elaboration. What underserved emaSwati urgently need are solutions to these pressing issues, not merely a warehouse full of expired medications. The prime minister, during his recent visit to the Central Medical Stores (CMS), spoke of a credible plan of action rather than glorified strategies, as reported in the Times of Eswatini on Thursday, December 12, 2024. This call to action is crucial, particularly in light of a recent ultimatum from the Global Fund, which threatened to withdraw funding unless Eswatini restructures the CMS to align with the Lesotho model. Mismanagement This ultimatum is rooted in the glaring mismanagement of funds, as highlighted in a report by Funduzi Forensic Services. Their investigation delved into the underlying causes of the drug shortages and the alleged corrupt procurement practices prevalent in the country. The implications of this threat from the Global Fund are severe, particularly for a ministry for health that appears to lack a viable plan to address the necessary benchmarking exercise. Given the critical role of the minister for health in negotiating a solution that satisfies the Global Fund, I was surprised by the composition of the delegation from Eswatini to Lesotho and the timing of the visit, especially considering the urgency of the situation. Earlier in the year, the highest authority in the land issued a clear directive after an official State visit to Lesotho. The Select Committee, led by Marwick Khumalo, indicated that the highest authorities in the land intimated to government way back in 2023 that urgent steps should be taken. According to the article in the Times of Eswatini, the PAC Chairperson Madala Mhlanga and five other PAC members were accompanied by officials from the office of the auditor general and an officer from the Ministry of Finance. Given that the core objective of the visit was to engage key stakeholders in the health sector of Lesotho -particularly regarding procurement, storage and distribution of drugs -it is curious that no member of the delegation was from the Ministry of Health. Although the delegation interacted directly with the principal secretary at the Ministry of Health and other important health officials, the absence of a health minister raises questions. The outcome for Lesotho is a reliable supply of essential drugs with a high expiry rate, enabling health facilities to operate effectively around the clock. All drugs entering the country are tested before distribution to patients, with 60 per cent coming directly from manufacturers rather than questionable intermediaries motivated solely by profit. This situation prompts me to ponder whether there is a link between the minister for healths absence from the delegation and his lukewarm response to the recommendations made in the Funduzi Forensic Services Audit. The need for accountability and effective action in the health sector has never been more pressing. One of the key findings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), based on its comprehensive study of a detailed report subsequently adopted by the House of Assembly, was the unwelcome delay by the Ministry of Health in bringing to justice those individuals implicated in misconduct. Despite a mountain of evidence collected against them, the Ministrys hesitance to take decisive action has led to frustration and alienation from the PAC. This delay appears to stem from the Ministrys need to seek assistance from various stakeholders, which has hindered progress. However, there may still be hope if appropriate corrective measures are implemented swiftly. A significant takeaway from the Eswatini delegations visit to Lesotho was the transformative impact of establishing the National Drug Service Organisation (NDSO) as a fully independent entity. This organisations mandate is to procure, store and provide a reliable drug distribution service that meets the needs of essential public health facilities. Implementation The implementation of the Activity Based Costing (ABC) Model has led to greater efficiency, transparency and accountability, significantly reducing waste and addressing the shortages of essential drugs. These drugs are sourced from external manufacturers and are rigorously tested to meet World Health Organisation (WHO) standards. So, what is the most cost-effective solution for the prime minister to meet the Global Funds requirements? A more collaborative approach with The Luke Commission (TLC) could prove beneficial. TLC has invested significantly in the award-winning LUVELO digital system, which acts as a robust communications platform to ensure stringent drug procurement controls. This system promotes transparency and accountability through digital tracking, effectively eliminating unnecessary wastage due to expired drugs. By meticulously monitoring the supply chain from procurement to the timely delivery of drugs and medical supplies to very important patients (VIPs), this system has the potential to elevate the Central Medical Stores (CMS) to a new standard of excellence. Controls It already incorporates the necessary audit controls to satisfy the Global Fund, avoiding the pitfalls of reinventing a dysfunctional and outdated healthcare model. The challenges surrounding drug safety and efficacy, exacerbated by the lack of a drug testing facility in Eswatini, can be addressed by sourcing medications directly from reputable WHO-approved manufacturers. This approach reduces the likelihood of drug recalls and the current shortages experienced at government hospitals. Unfortunately, as the Select Committee indicated, there are concerns that some senior government officials may be obstructing assistance to TLC for self-serving reasons that are detrimental to the health and wellness of the nations vulnerable populations, including the sick, weak and elderly. The recent PAC delegations visit to Lesotho serves as a timely reminder of the extensive medical expertise that the compassionate and community-focused TLC can contribute to health discussions. This presents an opportunity for the minister for health to forge a more meaningful collaborative partnership with like-minded organisations such as TLC. Regrettably, some individuals have historically been reluctant to engage with TLC, distancing themselves from its critical role in the nations healthcare and its commitment to innovation. As the year draws to a close, my earnest plea to both the prime minister and the minister for health is to concentrate on what can be achieved through collaboration founded on mutual trust and transparency with other stakeholders. MCD A British Army staff sergeant 'dry-humped' a naked female colleague as she slept after a boozy dinner, a court martial heard. The alleged victim woke up to find SSgt James Powe rubbing himself against her, a panel was told. SSgt Powe, who was engaged to be married, left after she woke up and told him to stop. He later messaged the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to ask if she was on the pill. The staff sergeant of the 1st Signal Regiment denies sexual assault at Bulford Military Court, Wiltshire. Prosecuting, Captain Ciaran Rafferty, told the court the alleged assault happened after both soldiers attended an Army 'dine-out' - a mess dinner - during which the woman drank shots. It was the first time she had attended such event and it was heard that SSgt Powe had offered her advice on etiquette. After the dinner, the two went back to the alleged victim's room where, the prosecutor said, 'there may have been some consensual kissing and stripping of clothes'. The alleged victim woke up to find SSgt James Powe, pictured, rubbing himself against her, a panel was told The staff sergeant of the 1st Signal Regiment denies sexual assault at Bulford Military Court, Wiltshire, pictured Capt Rafferty said the following morning the staff sergeant woke up the alleged victim by 'pushing his penis against her' in her 'back and bottom area', adding: '[She] didn't consent to this behaviour.' The woman told the court she had been drinking and could not remember what happened before she woke up to the alleged assault. Describing the incident, she said: 'So I woke up, must've been about half past seven and I was facing the wall. 'And then, because at the time I just felt his penis rubbing against me, it was almost like he was trying to initiate sex I felt like at the time, I turn[ed] around and was like 'What the f***?'.' She said she didn't know who it was in bed beside her when she felt his penis rubbing against her, and added she felt 'very vulnerable' as she was 'completely naked' at the time. The alleged victim continued: 'I was like 'S***, why are you in my bed?' Following this, she claims SSgt Powe got up and said 'I'm going to be late for work' and then left. Speaking of how it felt to wake up next to him, she said: 'It wasn't a very nice feeling, I felt sick to my stomach, I felt sort of taken advantage of.' She said she was unsettled by the fact that she didn't know how long the assault ad been going on for, She was later told by a colleague that he was engaged at the time. The alleged victim added: 'He messaged me that day asking if I was on the pill.' The soldier spoke to a doctor about her concern that there was a possibility she could be pregnant because this text made her worry he had done more than just rubbing against her. 'I'm never going to be able to prove that, but in the back of my mind that kind of made me feel worse,' she said. She said that she had time off work after the incident, and when she bumped into SSgt Powe for the first time after it happened, she was sick in a 'trauma response'. The alleged victim said: 'He was down there, and then I got back to work and ran to the bathroom and vomited. 'To be honest with you, I think that was the first time I'd seen him since the incident.' Capt. Rafferty said that SSgt Powe's defence is that he 'woke up when his phone alarm went off, that he got changed very quickly and left the room while [the alleged victim] was still sleeping'. The trial continues. Senior Labour figures are reportedly privately questioning Britain's close intelligence sharing relationship with the United States after Elon Musk took aim at Keir Starmer over grooming gangs. The X owner, who has an unofficial but senior position in the Trump administration, has spent the last week using his platform to launch savage attacks on the UK government. The slew of messages came after the Government declined to commission an inquiry into sexual exploitation in Oldham, insisting it should be locally-led. Mr Musk accused the Prime Minister of being 'complicit' in crimes and branded Home Office minister Jess Phillips a 'rape genocide apologist'. Sir Keir publicly spoke out against Mr Musk yesterday, but the BBC's Newsnight last night suggested senior No10 officials were wondering if the UK should distance itself from the Trump administration as long as Musk is a part. The two countries, along with Canada, Australia and New Zealand, form the 'Five Eyes' intelligence-sharing network. However, Tory MP Nick Timothy said anyone thinking this was a good idea were 'not serious people'. The X owner, who has an unofficial but senior position in the Trump administration, has spent the last week using his platform to launch savage attacks on the UK government . Sir Keir publicly spoke out against Mr Musk yesterday, but the BBC 's Newsnight last night suggested senior No10 officials were wondering if the UK should distance itself from the Trump administration as long as Musk is a part. And Defence Secretary John Healey told MPs yesterday: 'The US is the closest ally of this country, and this country is the closest ally of the US. 'That has been for case the decades it has withstood the ups and downs of the political cycle on both sides of the Atlantic and we as a Government will work closely with the incoming US Administration.' He had been asked by Labour MP Oliver Ryan whether he had assessed 'the UKs exposure of our defence capabilities, given that there may be some changes in the White House?' Sir Keir is today is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk and fury at 'smearing' those calling for a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. The PM gathered his Cabinet this morning as ministers consider how to respond to the growing furore. Sir Keir fueled the backlash after swiping yesterday that politicians who want an overarching probe into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were 'amplifying what the far-Right are saying'. As it tries to quell the row, the government has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is tabling a Commons amendment designed to force a vote on an inquiry. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the previous independent inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, said this morning that 'people should just get on with' implementing its recommendations rather than holding another one. A 25-year-old man has denied helping escaped prisoner Daniel Khalife after being accused of giving the ex-solider 400 in cash. Imran Chowdhury, from Chingford, east London, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court today in connection with Khalife's high-profile escape which triggered a nationwide manhunt. Chowdhury was arrested by the Met Police in January 2024 and was charged in December via post with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner. Khalife, a former British army soldier, escaped HMP Wandsworth by strapping himself to the underside of a food delivery van on September 6 2023. After three days on the run, he was eventually spotted riding a stolen mountain bike along a canal towpath in Northolt, west London - about 14 miles away from the prison. In November 2024, Khalife was found guilty of his prison escape as well as spying for Iran. Westminster Magistrates' Court heard today that Chowdhury allegedly met Khalife and gave him 400 in cash after he absconded. The defendant spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth at the short hearing this morning. He wore a white shirt and black jumper in the dock. Imran Chowdhury, 25, of Chingford, east London, (pictured) has pleaded not guilty at Westminster Magistrates Court to assisting former soldier Daniel Khalife after he escaped from prison in September 2023 Chowdhury was arrested by the Met Police in January 2024 and was charged in December via post with one count of assisting an escaped prisoner British soldier Khalife, 23, (pictured) was convicted of escaping prison after changing his plea to guilty halfway through giving evidence at his trial in November Khalife is seen here after his arrest on a canal towpath on September 9 last year after being caught by police District Judge Briony Clark told Chowdhury the charge against him is too serious to be dealt with at magistrates' court and was asked to attend a hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on February 4. He was bailed with conditions to live at his home address in Parade Gardens, Chingford. Prosecutor Emma Harraway said: 'As you are aware the defendant is charged with assisting Kalife, whose escape attracted worldwide press coverage. 'It is the Crown's case he was with Khalife on the day he escaped, took him to an ATM and withdrew 400. 'The 400 made him able to buy food to survive, clothes to conceal his identity and mobile phone top ups.' 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 Met Police said. Khalife, 23, was found guilty of spying for Iran after a trial in November 2024 and awaits sentence. Jurors at Woolwich Crown Court found Khalife had breached the Official Secrets and Terrorism Acts. He had already admitted escaping from Wandsworth Prison, triggering a nationwide manhunt, after changing his plea to guilty halfway through giving evidence at his two month trial in November. He was eventually tracked down and arrested on a canal towpath just a few miles from the jail. Chowdhury was bailed with conditions to live at his home address in Parade Gardens, Chingford District Judge Briony Clark told the 25-year-old the charge against him is too serious to be dealt with at magistrates' court and was asked to attend a hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court on February 4 Khalife is arrested by police officers on a London canal towpath, days after his escape from HMP Wandsworth 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 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. 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. Some 15,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in attempts to repel Ukraine's advances in Kursk since August, Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed, as Kyiv's Navy and drone operators dealt costly blows to Russia's air defences. '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,' Zelensky said in his nightly video address, though the figures could not be independently verified. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Navy, the Defence Ministry and respected war bloggers separately claimed that five Russian air defence platforms - including two S-300 systems and two Pantsir-S1 systems collectively worth roughly 300 million - were destroyed yesterday. Drone footage of one operation shared by the Navy purportedly showed a Ukrainian attack drone zeroing in on a Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft launcher near Kherson. Ukraine launched a mass incursion into the Kursk region last summer and has seized chunks of territory, though Russia's military claims to have recaptured much of that. After a period of relative deadlock, Kyiv's forces mounted a renewed offensive in the region on Sunday with the head of the Ukrainian President's office Andriy Yermak declaring: 'Russia is getting what it deserves' in Kursk. Russia's defence ministry acknowledged that Ukrainian troops had conducted an assault around the town of Berdin with several tanks - supposedly including British Challengers - a mine-clearing truck and 12 armoured combat vehicles. But this morning, Moscow and Russian war blogging channels reported that the Ukrainian assault on Berdin had been foiled and the Ukrainian units there destroyed, though cited no evidence. 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. A Russian soldier fires a gun toward a Ukrainian position in the Russian-Ukrainian border area in the Kursk region A destroyed Russian tank sits on a roadside near the town of Sudzha, Russia, in the Kursk region Ukrainian drone approaches a Russian air defence system moments before detonation Ukrainian commander in chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi on a recent visit to Kursk region inside occupied Russia 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. 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 on Monday: '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 earlier this week that 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. Your browser does not support iframes. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky Kyiv's renewed offensive in Kursk prompted Putin to dispatch one of his top generals to the occupied region. 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 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. Zelensky dismissed the notion of negotiating with Putin and Trump at the same time, explaining he would first sit with Trump to hatch a plan on ending the war before meeting with his Russian counterpart, whom he had earlier described as 'deaf by his very nature' and a 'bare-assed mammoth'. '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. '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. An emotional Zelensky went onto rail against Putin, dismissing the possibility of ever forgiving the Kremlin chief and refuting claims that he 'loves Russia and his people', based on the number of Russians who have been ordered to their deaths at conflicts at home and abroad under Putin's reign. Ukraine's renewed New Year offensive in Kursk has prompted Vladimir Putin to dispatch one of his top generals to the occupied Russian region 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 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 launched its new counterattack in Kursk 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 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.' 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. The veteran who blew up a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas was affectionately known as the 'Candy Man' by local children he delivered toys to while serving in Afghanistan. Special forces soldier Matthew Livelsberger, 37, shot himself in the head seconds before an improvised explosive detonated in the back of his rented truck on New Year's Day. Sixteen years prior, Master Sgt. Livelsberger organized for 200 stuffed animals, 100 notebooks and 50 sets of crayons and pencils to be shipped from his native Ohio to Afghanistan, vowing to his hometown newspaper he would deliver them himself. 'I promise you it will be in the hands of a child in need that would not receive it otherwise,' Livelsberger wrote in an email to The Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum. 'The Afghan children are adventurous and playful, just as our children are.' Fardin Fetwat, the interpreter with Livelsberger's unit in Afghanistan, told the Daily Beast that local children 'call[ed] him Candy Man' for his good deeds. 'He give it for the kids to be happy,' Fetwat told the outlet. 'He love the kids and the kids love him.' Livelsberger served in the Green Berets, highly trained special forces who work to counter terrorism abroad and train partners, the Army said in a statement. He had served in the Army since 2006, rising through the ranks with a long career of overseas assignments, deploying twice to Afghanistan and serving in Ukraine, Tajikistan, Georgia and Congo, the Army said. Livelsberger was awarded two Bronze Stars, including one with a valor device for courage under fire, a combat infantry badge and an Army Commendation Medal with valor. Livelsberger was on approved leave when he died, according to the statement. 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 A photo shared of Livelsberger from his days in the military Fetwat recalled moving stories of Livelsberger's work while on tour in Afghanistan in 2009. The translator said the soldier 'saved his life', shooting a 'bad guy' who had pointed his gun at him. Livelsberger told Fetwat to stay behind him. Fetwat told the outlet how Livelsberger vowed to teach him to write in English, buying him a computer to study on with his own money. Between missions he sat with Fetwat and taught him how to read and write. He would also go on outings twice a week to cheer up Afghan locals - adults and children. One time, the soldier found a wounded dog and nursed it back to health before trying to find it a home when he could not bring it back to the U.S., Fetwat remembered fondly. When Fetwat was granted a visa to move to the U.S. with his family, he said Livelsberger made the effort to come and meet him, his wife and two young children at Denver Airport. He looked after the family, booking them a hotel and finding them food, when they 'had nobody, no connection with anybody'. The remains of a Tesla Cybertruck that exploded in front of the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas Fetwat said that the soldier continued to offer help navigating American bureaucracy. He said that he last saw Livelsberger in 2017, noting that at the time he seemed to be having trouble in his personal life, leading to a divorce. Alicia Arritt, an ex-girlfriend he started dating a year later, said previously that Livelsberger was showing signs of PTSD from as early as 2018. The pair met on a dating app after Livelsberger separated from his first wife, and dated for three years before he remarried. '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. '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. Livelsberger was an active duty special forces soldier at the time of the Cybertruck explosion. He had reached out to Arritt in the days before his death to show off the rented vehicle, joking he felt like Batman. Flames rise from a Tesla Cybertruck after it exploded outside the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S., January 1 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 'I rented a Tesla Cybertruck. It's the s**t,' he text Alicia Arritt at 9am on Sunday. 'I feel like Batman or halo' Seven people nearby suffered minor injuries when the Tesla truck exploded on New Year's Day. Video showed a tumble of charred fireworks mortars, canisters and other explosive devices crowded into the back of the pickup. The truck bed walls were still intact because the blast shot straight up rather than to the sides. Notes recorded on Livelsberger's phone and recovered by police made clear his motive was not terrorism or violence, just to draw attention to his manifesto. Tory defence chief James Cartlidge may have got his naval facts shaken, not stirred, after mixing up a fictional James Bond boat with a real Royal Navy warship. In a blunder worthy a 'licence to confuse', the Conservative MP asked the Ministry of Defence about the cost of fixing the non-existent HMS Devonshire. The fake warship was sunk by the villain in 1997 Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, which starred Pierce Brosnan as 007. Meanwhile, the last British naval vessel named HMS Devonshire was sunk in 1984 for target practice in the Atlantic. It was built in the 1960s. But Mr Cartlidge - who until July was the man in charge of buying Britain's military kit, as defence procurement minister - used a parliamentary question to grill Labour Defence Secretary John Healey about repairs to 'HMS Devonshire'. The Shadow Defence secretary had reportedly meant to ask about HMS Northumberland, a Type 23 submarine hunting frigate, which was axed during defence cuts in November. Last night he joked the blunder was to see if the Ministry of Defence was using AI to screen parliamentary questions. But writing in November, Mr Cartlidge asked: 'What estimate he has made of the cost of repairing structural damage to HMS Devonshire?' Tory defence chief James Cartlidge may have got his naval facts shaken, not stirred, after mixing up a factional James Bond boat with a real Royal Navy warship (pictured is Pierce Brosnan as 007 in Tomorrow Never Dies) Pictured is the fictional warship HMS Devonshire from the James Bond film The last HMS Devonshire (pictured) in the Royal Navy fleet was sunk in 1984 after being used as target practice in the Atlantic The Sun reports that Labour defence bosses inside Whitehall toyed with the idea of issuing a flippant James Bond-inspired response. However, they also wondered whether the 50-year-old MP was asking about the cost of salvaging the wreck of the last Devonshire from the ocean floor. Instead, Maria Eagle - the current defence procurement minister - simply replied: 'There is no ship of the name HMS Devonshire currently in service with the Royal Navy. HMS Westminster, a real Type 23 frigate, was used to portray the interior of the fake HMS Devonshire, and the two other fictional Royal Navy ships featured in Tomorrow Never Dies, HMS Chester and Bedford. Mr Cartlidge has since claimed he intentionally made the blunder to see if officials at the MoD were using AI to reply to questions from MPs. 'Im pleased to say they passed the test on this occasion,' the Tory last night told The Sun. 'Following confirmation in a separate written answer that submissions to the much vaunted Strategic Defence Review will be read by AI, its fair to say weve been testing... they are still being read by humans.' HMS Northumberland was axed as part of a series of swinging cuts to the UK's defence capabilities announced by Labour in November. Tory defence chief James Cartlidge (pictured) has since claimed he intentionally made the blunder to see if officials at the MoD were using AI to reply to questions from MPs The MP had reportedly meant to ask the MoD about HMS Northumberland (pictured), a Type 23 submarine hunting frigate, which was axed in November. In a shocking move, 31 frontline helicopters and a pair of Commando assault ships were axed. A Royal Navy frigate and a pair of 'fast fleet tankers', which provide fuel for aircraft carriers, are also being chopped as part of the jaw-dropping plans. The decision by Defence Secretary John Healey was met by fury and disdain. Sources said the cuts delivered entirely the wrong message to Britain's enemies and allies such as the United States. The timing was also challenged as it coincides with the US ramping up its support for Ukraine and as other NATO members are boosting their military capabilities. One senior naval figure remarked: 'Try telling Donald Trump these helicopters and ships were getting old and were costing more to repair, he'll only hear that Britain is making cuts'. Announcing the cuts in Parliament, Mr Healey told MPs: 'I recognise that these will mean a lot to mean who have sailed and flown in them during their deployment around the world, but their work is done we must look now to the future. 'We're in a new era of rising global tensions, we need a new era for UK defence. To achieve this, the Government is investing 3bn extra next year and setting a clear path to 2.5 per cent, driving far-reaching reform, fixing the foundations for our armed forces to make Britain better defended, strong at home, secure abroad.' MailOnline has approach Mr Cartlidge for comment. Israel's youngest Hamas hostage Kfir Bibas, aged one, has been named among the list of 34 captives earmarked for release raising renewed hope for her return. Kfir, then just nine months old, was kidnapped on October 7 when Hamas terrorists stormed the Nir Oz Kibbutz in southern Israel where he lived with his older brother Ariel, their mother Shiri and father Yarden. The whole family was abducted. The baby turned one in captivity on January 18, 2024, a day that was known in Israel as 'the saddest birthday in the world' and faces another birthday as a hostage. Now there is hope that the Bibas family's could soon be released, as Kfir, Ariel -whom Hamas claimed had been killed a year ago- and Shiri have been named on a list of 34 hostages Hamas is prepared to free in exchange for a ceasefire in Gaza. But Israel has accused Hamas of 'psychological terror' for naming the hostages but not actually confirming whether they are alive. The list includes British Emily Damari, nine other woman, 11 men over the age of 50 and 11 people designated as sick. Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that it was in fact a list of people he had requested to be freed last July, to which the Israeli government received no response. An official from the Prime Minister's office dismissed it as 'spin' to put pressure on Israel in negotiations and called on the media to ignore the 'propaganda and psychological terror'. 'They haven't said who is alive and who is not; they haven't sent any list,' they said. 'So, as far as we stand, there isn't any progress.' Kfir Bibas, then just nine months old, was kidnapped on October 7, 2023, when Hamas terrorists stormed the Nir Oz Kibbutz in southern Israel where Kfir lived with his older brother Ariel, their mother Shiri and father Yarden The image of the two young boys being carried by their weeping mother, Shiri, as they were marched from their homes was one of the most striking to be published in the early days of the Israel-Hamas war Bullet holes cover the bedroom wall of hostage Ariel Bibas, 4, at his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz, Israel The Bibas family was taken on October 7 and footage was later released of a bleeding Yarden being driven into Gaza on a motorbike. Grainy footage also captured the moment Shiri was dragged out of a white car as she clung onto baby Kfir. Another shot showed Hamas militants directing the terrified mother towards a series of buildings and throwing a blanket over her head. At the time of the footage release, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari said the army was 'very concerned' about the family's well-being. He said the army found the videos in security cameras seized during its offensive in Khan Younis. Shiri's parents, Margaret and Yosi Silverman, who lived on the same kibbutz, were murdered and their bodies found near the Gaza border. The Bibas family's beloved dog, Tony, was also shot dead. In horrifying video footage released in April last year, Kfir's missing father Yarden was shown covered in blood and being beaten by a crowd of Palestinians while cheering terrorists drove him away on a motorbike on October 7. The video was shared on social media by Israeli president Isaac Herzog, who wrote: 'The world must not remain silent in the face of such crimes. Bring them home now!' Yarden is reported to have surrendered himself to the gunmen in the hope that they would take him and spare his wife and children. He is thought to be be alive in Gaza, but the fate of his family remains unclear. Kfir and Ariel are the last child hostages still held by Hamas. The Bibas family, father Yarden, mother Shiri, baby Kfir and four-year-old Ariel, were taken captive by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Nir Oz Ariel Bibas is pictured here playing with bubbles. He was captured by Hamas terrorists on October 7 Grainy footage, released by the IDF with permission of the family and shared with MailOnline, shows a group the IDF identifies as Hamas members taking a woman out of a parked white car as she holds a young child or baby Yarden Bibas is pictured on October 7 during his capture by Hamas in a picture that emerged before the latest video of him. He is bleeding from a head wound and has blood on his hands. His family members have not heard from him since This comes as a Hamas source yesterday told Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat that Palestinian factions need another week to provide details on the condition of each hostage on the list. Previously the terrorists have requested a ceasefire just to allow them to check who is alive. The failure to give proof of life has proven one of the major sticking points in negotiations to date with fears Hamas have lost track of many of the captives. But mediators are keen to build on the momentum with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken hoping to finally get a deal done before Donald Trump takes office on January 20. 'We very much want to bring this over the finish line in the next two weeks, the time we have remaining,' he told a press conference in South Korea yesterday. While nearly 100 hostages remain in Gaza, of which over half are hoped to be alive, Israel suggested a partial release of 40 last summer as the first phase of a ceasefire. Since then five on that list were executed by Hamas - Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Almog Sarsuri, Eden Yerushalmi, Carmel Gat and Avraham Munder. Meanwhile one, Kaid Farhan al-Qadi, was rescued by the IDF. Mediators had pushed for an initial partial release as a bridging proposal given Hamas demands a total withdrawal before freeing every hostage while Israel will not pull out until all captives are freed. 'I am terrified that Emily and the other female hostages are exposed to the constant threat of sexual assault,' Ms Damari said Emily Damari (pictured before her capture) is believed to still be held in Hamas tunnels under Gaza after being kidnapped on October 7 last year It is the first stage a of three-phase agreement that would end with a total ceasefire and IDF withdrawal. Emily Damari, who is among those earmarked for release in Hamas' list, was taken from her home of Kibbutz Kfar Aza near the Gaza border, where she was born and raised. Her beloved golden cockapoo, Choocha, was shot dead in her arms, while the attack left her with a gunshot wound to the hand. Emily is the only British hostage still held by Hamas and is believed to still be kept in the tunnels in Gaza. Fury has erupted in Paris after alleged anti-Semitic graffiti was scrawled around the city on the 10th anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo jihadist attacks. Stars of David appeared on Jewish homes and businesses as the nation remembered the slaughter of staff of the satirical magazine by two Al-Qaeda gunmen. The French President and his wife joined Charlie Hebdo's editor for a solemn memorial in Paris to mark the tenth anniversary of a jihadist terror attack on the newspaper's offices. Emmanuel Macron, alongside his wife Brigitte, and Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo, are leading tributes at the site of the attack where 12 people, including some of France's most beloved cartoonists, were killed on January 7, 2015. The commemorations include a wreath-laying ceremony and a minute's silence at three locations in the capital. Among those remembered was Ahmed Merabet, a police officer who was gunned down on the street while defending the satirical newspaper. The massacre, carried out by two brothers claiming allegiance to al-Qaida, marked the start of a grim new era for France, with a wave of extremist violence pushing the country to reassess its security priorities and commitment to free speech. The assailants, armed with assault rifles stormed what were then the offices of Charlie Hebdo and killed a dozen people in a bid to avenge the Prophet Mohammad nearly a decade after the atheist and frequently provocative weekly published cartoons mocking the Prophet. Stars of David appeared on Jewish homes and businesses around Paris on the 10th anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo terrorist attacks The Stars of David that today appeared around Vincennes, France, were similar to those used by Nazis to mark out properties inhabited by Jews during the Second World War Holocaust (From left) Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo, French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron, France's Prime Minister Francois Bayrou and France's Minister of Overseas, Manuel Valls walk near rue Nicolas Appert, the site of the Charlie Hebdo attack in 2015, to attend commemorations marking 10 years since an Islamist attack on the Charlie Hebdo satirical newspaper The commemorations include a wreath-laying ceremony and a minute's silence at three locations in the capital Twelve people died in the attacks, including eight editorial staff, while a separate but linked hostage-taking at a Jewish supermarket in eastern Paris by a third gunman on 09 January 2015 claimed another four lives Al Qaeda's Yemen branch had placed Charlie Hebdo's then editor, Stephane Charbonnier, on its 'wanted list' after the magazine first ran the images of the holy figure in 2006. The gunmen killed eight members of the editorial team, including Charbonnier, and four other people before being shot dead by police. Two days after they were attacked, four Jewish shoppers were murdered in the Hyper Casher kosher supermarket in Vincennes, east of Paris, by terrorist Amedy Coulibaly. Like Said and Cherif Kouachi, the Paris-born killers of the Charlie staff, Coulibaly was himself later killed by special forces. The killings spurred an outpouring of national sympathy expressed in the slogan 'Je Suis Charlie' - translating to I am Charlie - and prompted an impassioned debate about freedom of expression and religion in secular France. Speaking on the tenth anniversary, interior minister Bruno Retailleau painted a stark picture of France's current security landscape. 'France has rearmed considerably, but the threat is still there,' he warned in an interview with RTL, referencing both external dangers and a troubling rise in homegrown radicalisation. 'The nature of the threat has changed,' Mr Retailleau explained. 'It is now primarily endogenous - young individuals radicalised through social media. 'Last year alone, our services foiled nine attacks, the highest number since 2017.' Mr Retailleau cited recent attacks at public gatherings in Germany and New Orleans as grim reminders of why France must maintain a 'very high level of caution'. The Stars of David that today appeared around Vincennes, France, were similar to those used by Nazis to mark out properties inhabited by Jews during the Second World War Holocaust. On Tuesday, the word Jewish was also scrawled on a wall in the Vincennes area. Prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation after alleged anti-Semitic graffiti was left scrawled around Paris On Tuesday, the word Jewish was also scrawled on a wall in the Vincennes area Gunmen gesture as they return to their car after the attack outside the offices of French satirical weekly newspaper Charlie Hebdo (seen at rear) in this still image taken from amateur video shot in Paris January 7, 2015 A combination of file photos made on January 7, 2015 shows (from left up) French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo's deputy chief editor Bernard Maris and cartoonists Georges Wolinski, Jean Cabut, aka Cabu, Charb, Tignous and Honore (Philippe Honore) Firefighters, police officers and forensics gathered in front of the offices of the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo in Paris, after the brothers Kouachi stormed the offices leaving twelve dead Jonathan Msika, a 40-year-old who lives in the suburb, told Frances AFP news agency: It disgusts me. Its outrageous to scrawl things like that, especially during these times when we will soon be commemorating the tenth anniversary of Charlie Hebdo and the Hyper Cacher killings. And Florence Menard, 60, and a resident of one of the graffitied buildings, said: Its disgusting. Police were also investigating anti-Semetic inscriptions painted on a Synagogue in Rouen, in Normandy, on Tuesday. They included references to the Second Word War gas chambers. Bruno Retailleau, Frances Interior Minister, said he absolutely condemned the graffiti, adding: to touch our Jewish compatriots is to touch France. The attack on Charlie Hebdo, carried out in retaliation for the newspaper's irreverent caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad, ignited fierce global debates about the limits of free expression. In the days that followed, millions marched in solidarity, brandishing pens and signs declaring, 'I am Charlie' - a rallying cry for press freedom and defiance against extremism. But 10 years on, the unity of that moment has splintered. French commentators say younger generations are increasingly critical of satire they see as divisive or insensitive, particularly toward marginalised communities. Charlie Hebdo itself remains unapologetic, with its 10th-anniversary edition featuring a cover cartoon of a reader perched on an AK-47, captioned 'Indestructible'. Armed police search the village of Longpont in Aisne for the terror suspects from the attack on French satirical weekly newspaper Charlie Hebdo in Paris, France, January 8, 2015 Emergency services seen at the scene of an incident near the former offices of French magazine Charlie Hebdo, in Paris, France September 25, 2020 In an editorial, the magazine's director, Laurent Sourisseau, known as 'Riss', defended the power of satire. 'If you want to laugh, it means you want to live,' he wrote. More than 250 people have been killed in France in Islamist violence since the attacks, laying bare the struggle the country has faced to counter the threat posed by militants. But the anniversary has prompted renewed reflection in France about press freedoms. Former French President Francois Hollande expressed concern that there was growing self-censorship stemming from fear. 'Should we publish drawings, project certain images, or compile reports when we know they may hurt personalities or communities? There is a form of self-censorship that has taken root,' he said. Charlie Hebdo published a special edition to mark the anniversary, depicting a man sitting on the butt of gun in front of the word 'Indestructible!' on its cover. 'Today the values of Charlie Hebdo - such as humour, satire, freedom of expression, ecology, secularism, feminism, to name a few - have never been so under threat,' it said in an editorial. Charlie Hebdo's no-taboo journalism divides France. For Muslims any depiction of the Prophet Mohammad is blasphemous. Critics of Charlie Hebdo accuse it of crossing the line and straying into Islamophobia by repeatedly publishing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad. The magazine denies this and says it lampoons all religions, including Christianity. This is the dramatic moment two masked robbers were captured on CCTV as they ripped out a shop till while threatening a shopkeeper with a metal wrench. The terrified member of staff was standing behind the counter of the shop in Newport, South Wales, when it was raided by the masked suspects last month. Footage from security cameras shows one robber repeatedly slamming the large metal tool on the shop counter before ripping out the till. Gwent Police detectives now appealing for witnesses following the robbery at the store on Caerleon Road on Monday, December 9 at about 9.40pm. The clip released by the force shows the robbers leaving the shop with the cash tray while the member of staff runs from the counter to safety. One suspect is shown wearing an Adidas cap while the other is wearing a hooded Under Armour top. They are believed to have fled in a black Vauxhall Corsa. 1) The masked men enter the store in Newport, South Wales, with one brandishing a wrench 2) Video shows one of robbers repeatedly slamming the large metal tool on the shop counter 3) The terrified member of staff stood behind the counter of the shop during the robbery 4) One of the men can be seen ripping out the till during the robbery on Monday, December 9 5) Police are hoping that someone might recognise the robbers' clothing or their mannerisms 6) The robbers pull out the till before fleeing from the shop during the robbery at 9.40pm A police spokesman said: 'The robbery is believed to have taken place at around 9.40pm on Monday, December 9 after two unknown people entered the shop with a tool, took the shop till and left the area in a car, believed to be a black Vauxhall Corsa. 'Officers investigating the report are trying to identify these two people. We understand that their faces are not visible, but someone may recognise the clothing or their mannerisms.' It comes after figures revealed robberies targeting businesses reached a record high last year with 33 every day. Office for National Statistics data showed that robbery of a business property rose by 52 per cent in the year to June 2024 up from 7,884 to 12,000. An investigation conducted by the shop workers union Udsaw also revealed one in five retail staff members had been the victim of a violent assault last year. Anyone who recognises the robbers in the video or with any other information is asked to contact Gwent Police on 101 quoting log reference 2400407484 Two Missouri police officers refused to help a dying suicide victim because their shift was about to end, sparking outrage. Footage from the September, 2023, incident shows former St. Louis Metropolitan Police officers Austin Fraser and Ty Warren responding after Urayoan Rodriguez-Rivera called 911 saying he was about to kill himself. Minutes after the call was placed, Fraser and Warren found Rodriguez-Rivera under a tree at Forest Park in St Louis, still breathing, after he shot himself in the head, as reported by First Alert 4. Warren is heard telling his partner that Rodriguez-Rivera, 29, is still alive and they need to transport him to the hospital. 'We better take this motherf****r then?' Warren says. 'We arent taking this s**t,' Fraser responds. 'I get off in 30 minutes. Lets cruise around and come back.' The cops then leave Rodriguez-Rivera, who is still breathing, under the tree. They do not offer any aid, look for any firearm at the scene or work to secure the area in any way. As the cops walk away from the scene, Fraser is heard saying: 'Theyre gonna find this [expletive] and were gonna be like, "Oh [expletive] you found him."' Former St. Louis Metropolitan Police officers Austin Fraser and Ty Warren walked away from a suicide victim, without rendering help or securing the scene, in September 2023 Warren is initially heard telling his partner that the suicide victim is still alive and they need to transport him to the hospital The two are then heard laughing as they leave the scene and Warren turns off his bodycam. They then drive around the area before coming back about 10 minutes later and are recorded pretending that they've come upon the tragedy fresh. Urayoan Rodriguez-Rivera called 911 before he shot himself in the head Shortly after, another officer arrives at the scene and his bodycam picks up, showing Warren and Fraser 'looking' for the victim that had walked away from. As soon as the third officer spots the victim, he makes a priority request for EMAS to come to the scene to aid the Rodriguez-Rivera, who was heard gasping for air. More officers then show up to the scene and tape off the area before one of them checks Rodriguez-Rivera's pulse and says it is 'super weak.' A different officer then notes the firearm is missing while another tries to render first aid to Rodriguez-Rivera. Moments later, Warren and Fraser are seen walking away from the scene for a second time, with two of the others noting it. 'You know whats f****d up? Warren and Fraser just left,' one officer is heard saying. When additional officers show up, they immediately work to try to help the victim The responding officers made comments about Fraser and Warren leaving the scene and that being inappropriate Another officer then says he is going to 'out the (expletive) out of Fraser.' 'You cant just leave,' the officer adds. Former police St Louis County chief Tim Fitch told First Alert 4 the fired officers showed 'pure laziness.' 'It's disgusting, really disgusting,' Fitch added. The weapon Rodriguez-Rivera used was never found and was marked as stolen, although his death was ultimately ruled a suicide. Warren had his peace officer license revoked after the incident and Fraser will face a disciplinary hearing on January 7. Both were fired after administrators found the footage in a routine review and a complaint was filed by the state's attorney general accusing the former cops of 'reckless disregard for the public.' 'The two individuals are no longer employed by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department,' SLMPD said in a statement. 'While we are unable to comment on specific personnel matters, SLMPD holds its officers to the highest of standards. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken if an officer is found to have violated policies.' MBABANE Imagine having to cope with discovering the lifeless body of your nephew at a decomposed state. That is the unfortunate tribulation that befell Girlie Motsa who discovered the body of his deceased nephew, Themba Motsa (35) of Siphocosini, who had presumably gone missing for over 48 hours. Themba was last seen on Friday, January 3, 2025, after he went to play a pool game at a local hang out spot at Siphocosini. According to Girlie, the deceased told his friends that he was not feeling well as his back was in extreme pain. Deceased She narrated that the deceased then told his friends that he was leaving as he intended lying down to ease the pain, and he left. His friends told us that the pain was bothering him so much that he did not consume any alcohol on the day yet he would normally do so under normal circumstances, detailed girlie. Girlie initially revealed that the deceased was a self-employed individual who earned a living by retrieving river sand from nearby rivers and selling it to potential buyers. He also procured maize cobs, roasted them and sold them for profit. She recounted that the deceased would normally leave early in the morning and come back late, so much that they did not immediately notice his disappearance until his friends called to enquire about him. It was until his friends called us to enquire about his health that we were made aware he was not well and had been out of the public eye for at least two days, she said. Girlie revealed that on Sunday, she went to the deceaseds house within the compound and they discovered that the locking key was inside the house, suggesting that he was in the house. She, together with family members, forcefully opened the window and they made the shocking discovery. The family said it is still waiting for the post mortem to determine the cause of death but they were shattered by his untimely demise. Meanwhile, the recent weeks have seen a disturbing trend with a series of reported suicides, particularly among elderly individuals. This has raised concerns about the growing mental health challenges facing the aging population in the country. In one tragic incident, a 70-year-old man was found hanging from a guava tree in his fields at Kukhanyeni. He was discovered by his son around 10:30am and was certified dead at Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation by local authorities.Meanwhile, a 69-year-old man of Ntambande at Mpolonjeni, committed suicide by ingesting a poisonous substance. He was found already dead by his son. In another suicide case, on Thursday at 4pm, a 44-year- old man of Siphofaneni also ended his life by ingesting a poisonous substance while at Sidwashini Correctional Service camp inside a motor vehicle. Two 'inexperienced' climbers narrowly avoided tragedy on a frozen Scottish mountain after rescuers saved them from their snow-buried tent. The man and woman had planned to camp on the 3608-ft peak known as The Saddle, in the Highlands, but ended up calling for help after their tent was engulfed during 'brutal' weather conditions. Such was the inaccessible nature of their position that a coastguard helicopter ruled out reaching them by air. The situation meant mountain rescuers were forced to take a 'dangerous' route amid sub-zero temperatures, wading through waist-deep snow, to reach the pair. After reaching the climbers, who did not have the right footwear for the attempt, the heroes guided them down to safety. The nail-biting rescue was the second call out the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team carried out on Monday night as the mercury dipped to a bone-chilling -20C after having rescued another climber earlier. The first call out at 5.30pm was for a man in his 20s who had sustained a deep cut to his lower leg after catching it with his crampon. In total, the group of 24 heroes spent around eight hours on the frozen slopes of the peak, not making it back to safety until 1.30am on Tuesday morning. The rescues took place on the peaks of mountains in the Cairngorm area of the Highlands Dramatic footage of the recue showed rescuers struggling through huge drifts of snow with only their head-torches to guide the way. Discussing the perilous circumstances of the rescue involving the man and woman, Cairngorm MRT leader Iain Cornfoot said: They had intended to camp near the Saddle at 800 metres (2624ft) but in deteriorating conditions they had raised an SOS message from their phone. Their tent had collapsed under the snow and they said they would not survive the night. The wind chill was -20C. We had to reach them through waist deep snow with potentially treacherous conditions under foot with a serious avalanche risk. 'The coastguard helicopter from Inverness could not get in because of the conditions which were brutal. The couple were inexperienced. It was their second night out, but their equipment, including footwear, was not up to the job. It is a timely reminder to have the right experience and gear for the conditions. They did not think they would survive and if they had they would have been in a pretty poor state. The team did a fantastic job because they decided on taking a more dangerous route to reach them given the avalanche risk. After locating the couple and some rewarming they were walked out to safety through some arduous underfoot conditions.' The couple were walked up to near the 4,081ft summit of Cairn Gorm and then on to the team's all terrain vehicle. The Saddle, which they had been climbing on, is graded by many mountaineering websites as being among the 'hardest or most strenuous' of Scotland's Munros. Meanwhile, the earlier rescue was said to have involved a man who was with a university group from England. He was with another climber when the accident happened at 3,608 feet between Coire an t-Sneachda - where they had been - and the mountain ski area. Mr Cornfoot said: After some rewarming and treatment of the wound the casualty was helped back to the ski area through deep snow and in poor visibility. The Northern Cairngorms is currently graded as being at considerable avalanche risk according to the Scottish Avalanche Information Service which monitors six mountain areas. Torridon was also showing the same level. There have already been 11 avalanches recorded this winter. There were 172 last season. Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder and former leader of France's hard-right National Front party and the father of Marine Le Pen, has died at the age of 96. Le Pen, who had been in a care facility for several weeks, died at midday Tuesday 'surrounded by his loved ones', his family said in a statement. Marine, his youngest daughter, was not present at his bedside and received news of her father's death during a stopover in Kenya on her way back from visiting the cyclone-hit island of Mayotte, according to French media. 'You will not be able to console me for this sorrow,' she wrote on X alongside a black and white picture of her as a child being carried by her father. Le Pen shook the French political establishment when he unexpectedly reached the presidential election run-off vote against Jacques Chirac in 2002, a dramatic ascent many credited to his mix of populism and charisma. He was known for his fiery rhetoric against immigration and multiculturalism that earned him both staunch supporters and widespread condemnation. His controversial and inflammatory statements, including Holocaust denial, led to multiple convictions and strained his political alliances. Le Pen was succeeded as party chief by his daughter, Marine, who eventually booted him out of the party for anti-Semitism. She has since run for the presidency three times and turned the party, now branded the National Rally, into one of the country's main political forces. Jordan Bardella, the current president of the National Rally, paid tribute to the party's figurehead on X, saying he was a man who 'always served France, defended its identity and its sovereignty.' 'Today I think with sadness of his family, his loved ones, and of course of Marine whose mourning must be respected,' the 29-year-old leader wrote. Former President of the Front National (FN) Jean-Marie Le Pen (L) and his daughter and successor Marine Le Pen (R) pictured during a May Day rally in Paris, France, May 2014 French former leader and founder of the French hard-right party Front national (FN) Jean-Marie Le Pen Jean-Marie Le Pen, France's National Front political party founder, embraces his daughter Marine Le Pen, who succeeded him as the party's leader French extreme right-wing leader Jean-Marie Le Pen delivers a speech during the National Front party annual meeting at the Palais des Congres in Paris, France, December 14, 1985 A French demonstrator apprears between national newspapers held up with the banner headline 'NO' printed over the photo of National Front presidential candidate Jean-Marie Le Pen, during a protest march in Paris, April 23, 2002 France's Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau also responded to news of Le Pen's death on X, writing that 'a page in French political history is turning.' 'Whatever opinion one may have of Jean-Marie Le Pen, he will undoubtedly have left his mark on his era,' he wrote, sending condolences to Marine Le Pen and her family. In a statement released by the Elysee Palace, Emmanuel Macron sent his condolences to Le Pen's family and loved ones. The statement highlighted that Le Pen had been a presidential candidate five times and described him as 'a historical figure of the extreme right.' 'He thus played a role in the public life of our country for almost seventy years, which is now subject to the judgment of History.' A former paratrooper, Le Pen sent shock waves through France in 2002 when he made it to the second round of the presidential election, which was won by Jacques Chirac. Le Pen, who seemed more at ease in the role of provocateur than would-be president, appeared as surprised as everyone else by his spectacular breakthrough. Years later, he boasted that the rise of the far right around Europe showed his ideas had gone mainstream. Born in the port of La Trinite-sur-Mer in the western Brittany region on June 20, 1928, he was the son of a seamstress and a fisherman. His father's fishing boat hit a mine during World War II, killing him - a loss that hit the young Le Pen hard. Anxious to see action, Le Pen volunteered for service in two wars in French colonies - the First Indochina War (1946-1954) in Vietnam, and then in Algeria (1954-1962). Shortly after his return from Algeria he entered politics and became France's youngest MP at 27 when he was elected to parliament in 1956. But he was unable to resist the lure of the battlefield. Later that year, he took part in the Franco-British military expedition to seize the Suez Canal, and a few years later joined forces fighting to keep Algeria French. As in Vietnam, he was infuriated to see France losing its colonial possessions, accusing World War II hero Charles de Gaulle of 'helping make France small' by granting Algeria its independence. A consummate orator and trained lawyer, he tapped into the anger of rightwingers nostalgic for the empire and French settlers forced to flee the North African country. The eye patch he wore for many years added to his pugilistic air. Le Pen (R) flanked by French lawyer, and former member of French army parachutist corps, Pierre Menuet (L) and members of National Veterans Front, participates in an old soldiers rally in 1960 in Paris Jean-Marie Le Pen gives a speech on February 3, 1973, in an unlocated place during the electoral campaign for the legislative elections Years later Le Pen revealed that he lost his eye driving a tent peg into a hole, and not, as was widely thought, in a brawl. In 1972, he co-founded the National Front (FN), billed as a 'national, social and popular' party, and two years later made his first run for president. The early years were tumultuous, with his unabashed racism and anti-Semitism striking a raw nerve in a country still haunted by the collaborationist Vichy regime during World War II. In 1976, a bomb ripped through the Paris apartment building where Le Pen lived with his wife Pierrette and three daughters, slightly injuring six people but sparing the Le Pens. Eight years later, Pierrette walked out of the marriage, leaving her husband because of his extreme views. He refused to pay her alimony, saying that 'if she wants money she can clean'. Pierrette responded to the comments soon afterwards by posing for Playboy magazine in a French maid's outfit - a pointed answer to her husband's advice. The magazine reported selling 250,000 more copies than normal. About one thousand people demonstrate in Lyons to protest extreme-right Front National candidate Jean-Marie Le Pen's advance into the runoff for the French presidency 21 April 2002 The FN's first big electoral breakthrough came in the mid-1980s, when the party won 35 seats in parliament. But its fortunes fluctuated sharply over the next two decades, partly a result of changes in the election system that favoured big parties. Le Pen's message remained unchanged, however, with immigration, the political elite and the European Union all taking a bashing - even though he himself was a member of the European Parliament for over 30 years. In 2007, Le Pen maintained that Nicolas Sarkozy, the son of a Hungarian immigrant who went on to win the presidency, was not sufficiently French to hold the office. He repeatedly warned that African immigration would 'submerge' the country and claimed the Nazi occupation of the northern half of France in World War II was 'not particularly inhumane'. Le Pen delivering a speech in 2007 in front of a slogan reading: 'Neither Pals, nor Black, nor White, nor North African, but French!' But it was comments on the Holocaust - which he repeatedly called a 'detail' of history - that caused the most shock and earned the politician nicknamed the 'Devil of the Republic'. He was tried, convicted and fined in 1996 for contesting war crimes after declaring that the Nazi gas chambers were 'merely a detail' of World War Two history. The comment provoked outrage in France, where police had rounded up thousands of Jews who were deported to the Nazi death camp at Auschwitz in 1942. 'I stand by this because I believe it is the truth,' he said in 2015 when asked if he regretted the comment. His inflammatory statements also drove a wedge between him and his daughter Marine, who embarked on a mission to clean up the FN's image after taking over the party leadership in 2011. She called the process 'dediabolisation' - 'de-demonization' - in an apparent nod to the legacy left by her father. Fours years of uneasy political cohabitation between father and daughter ended in a blazing row in 2015, when the younger Le Pen kicked him out of the party for his Holocaust remarks. The ultimate humiliation for Le Pen senior came when Marine ditched the National Front brand in early 2018. Le Pen (2R) poses with his wife Pierrette (L) and their daughters Yann (2L), Marine (C) and Marie-Caroline (R) in their flat, in Paris, on May 1, 1974 Jean-Marie Le Pen and his second wife Jany sunbathe on a boat near Goecek, in Turkey's Mediterranean coast August 25, 1997 Le Pen poses with his daughter Marine in front of the Marseille harbour in 2004 'She would have to commit suicide to cut her links with me,' he had told the Journal du Dimanche newspaper. Further ignominy was in store for him, however. His adored granddaughter, Marion Marechal-Le Pen, a telegenic former MP tipped as a future leader of the far right, also distanced herself from the family brand. She dropped Le Pen from her name on her social media accounts, becoming simply Marion Marechal. 'Marion perhaps thinks that it is too much of weight to carry,' her grandfather grumbled. His former party, now the National Rally, has since made significant inroads in both European and French politics under Marine Le Pen. It showed strong gains in this year's European Parliament elections, and became the largest single party in a subsequent general election in France. A hero father has revealed how he rescued his 14-year-old daughter in a Taken-style plot after she was allegedly kidnapped. Emmarae Gervasi, from East Patchogue on Long Island, vanished on December 9 after she went to retrieve some items from a Jeep outside her home on Tyrrell Street. A large-scale search operation for the missing teenager ensued with her father, Frank Gervasi, working closely with local police to track down his daughter. In a surprising development, it was Frank who found Emmarae aboard a large boat just off Main Street in Islip, Long Island, after he received an anonymous tip about her whereabouts. 'I did find her myself before police got there. It was the end of 26 days of hell seeing her alive in my arms. It was a gift from God. I can't describe the feeling I had when I grabbed her,' Frank told News 12. Following her disappearance, the courageous father worked closely also followed up his own leads in the Taken-style rescue effort. Less than 24 hours after she disappeared, he said he got a tip that she was walking aimlessly along a long stretch of road in Bohemia until, he said, 'she completely vanished without a trace.' Her family had been worried sick after her sudden vanishing, as Frank previously told DailyMail.com that prior to her coming home, the last time he spoke to his daughter she asked him what he was making for dinner. On Monday, Buckheit entered a not guilty plea to charges of rape, kidnapping, and acting in a manor injurious to a child at First District Court in Central Islip, court records show She was located by her father Frank Gervasi aboard a large boat just off Main Street after he received an anonymous tip about her whereabouts following '26 days of hell' Frank previously told DailyMail.com: 'I fear that she is being held against her will. I know she is with somebody and they are either convincing her to stay or wont let her leave or worse she may be dead by now.' Francis Buckheit, 65, was arrested on charges of rape and kidnapping in connection to Emmarae's case, his defense attorney Danielle Marie Papa confirmed, according to Patch. On Monday, Buckheit entered a not guilty plea to charges of rape, kidnapping, and acting in a manner injurious to a child at First District Court in Central Islip, court records show. His arrest day is listed as January 3 - the same day Emmarae was discovered. Buckheit is being held without bail and is due back in court Thursday morning, records reveal. Frank's heroic action have been likened to the plot of the 2008 hit movie Taken. In the movie ex-CIA officer Bryan Mills - played by Liam Neeson - travels to Paris to find his daughter who has been kidnapped by a criminal. Against the odds, Bryan hunts down those who took his daughter is eventually reunited with her. After being found safe, Emmarae is now recovering in the hospital and the case remains an active investigation. Francis Buckheit, 65, was arrested and charged in connection to the disappearance of Emmarae Gervasi, 14, who was found on Friday on a boat in Islip, Long Island Friends and family joined Frank on the search, alongside community members, to look for Emmarae. A search was also conducted in upstate New York using police cadaver dogs and helicopters but thankfully no body was found. Frank himself pleaded on social media for news and looked into leads into his daughter's disappearance himself, driving around on Long Island. In a video posted to Facebook on Saturday morning, Frank gave thanks to all those who helped in the search for his girl. 'She is home. She is in a facility and getting the help she needs and is safe,' he said, sounding relieved. 'I'd like to thank the community for all the support you gave us. Posting all the videos, pushing all the content, Handing out flyers, donating your time to look for my missing girl. It is those things that are going to help bring other kids home. 'I got an anonymous tip yesterday, and I want to thank that person for coming forward and giving me information about my daughter. The phone call that I received was that she was on a boat in Islip. I followed it up on my own and I went down there to check. 'I bust into the boat and recovered my daughter. She has been saved and is alive. I believe it was persistency that helped bring her home,' Frank said. The worried father went on to tell New 12 how he believes Emmarae went off with someone she knew but then became afraid to come back home 'because of the consequences.' He also believes that she was picked up by a random man who took her to a trailer park before being transferred to the boat where she was held. Emmarae's mother Melissa Dervay said a weight was 'lifted off my body' when the intense search ended. 'The moment I heard her voice and knew she was OK, I felt a weight lifted off my body,' Dervay told Greater Long Island. Her family had been worried sick after her sudden vanishing on December 9, as Frank (pictured) previously told DailyMail.com the last time he spoke to his daughter she asked him what he was making for dinner After being found safe, Emmarae is now recovering in the hospital and the case remains an active investigation The worried father believes Emmarae went off with someone she knew but then became afraid to come back home 'because of the consequences' 'I've been so tense for the past four weeks, quietly fighting a battle. Now, I'm elated. I feel light, and I just want to scream, 'She's OK. She's been found.' While she was missing, Frank said he started to get strange phone calls from unknown numbers, and that the voice on the other end sounded like his daughter. 'She said "I love you" and I said "Emma?",' he explained - but the line quickly went dead and he was unable to trace the number. He even put up a $10,000 reward for anyone who could help him bring his daughter home. The Suffolk County Police Department has since impounded the large boat from the dock as evidence. DailyMail.com contacted the Suffolk County Police Department and the District Attorney's Office for comment. A Labour minister was left squirming after being repeatedly quizzed over whether sex abuse victims are 'jumping on the far-Right bandwagon' by calling for a new inquiry. Stephen Kinnock, a minister in the Department of Health and Social Care, faced a grilling amid the furious political row over grooming gangs. Both the Tories and Reform UK have demanded a fresh national inquiry, while tech billionaire Elon Musk has launched a barrage of attacks on Labour over the issue. In a swipe at his critics yesterday, Sir Keir Starmer hit out at politicians 'calling for inquiries because they want to jump on a bandwagon of the far-Right'. The Prime Minister's comments saw him accused of 'smear tactics' and triggered another backlash against Labour. Appearing on BBC's Newsnight, Mr Kinnock attempted to defend Sir Keir's remarks and said the debate around grooming gangs 'has to be based on the facts'. He said those calling for a fresh probe 'need to explain why we need another review and inquiry'. Mr Kinnock added that local inquiries had already been held in some parts of the UK, while Professor Alexis Jay chaired the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. Stephen Kinnock, a minister in the Department of Health and Social Care, faced a grilling amid the furious political row over grooming gangs Mr Kinnock was asked by BBC presenter Victoria Derbyshire whether a victim of sexual exploitation, who is also calling for an inquiry, was 'jumping on the far-Right bandwagon' In a swipe at his critics yesterday, Sir Keir Starmer hit out at politicians 'calling for inquiries because they want to jump on a bandwagon of the far-Right' 'Let's get on and implement those,' Mr Kinnock said of Prof Jay's recommendations from her 2022 report. 'Of course we monitor, we're vigilant - if we see that the implementation of those measures is not working for some reason then, ok yeah, we may need to go back to the drawing board. 'But let's get on with what's on the table and it's frankly shameful those recommendations have been there since 2022 and they've never been implemented.' Mr Kinnock was then asked whether a victim of sexual exploitation in Telford, who is also calling for a national inquiry, was 'jumping on the far-Right bandwagon'. 'The Jay review was very clear that it will put institutions in place... those institutions will, I believe, deliver on what that young person, that victim of abuse, is calling for,' he replied. 'I believe the Jay inquiry, we believe as a Government, they will deliver on what is needed. 'If they don't, then of course we need to be very vigilant and make sure we're putting the measures in place that work.' After being repeatedly pressed for a direct answer, Mr Kinnock later told presenter Victoria Derbyshire: 'Politicians are being opportunistic when they have completely failed to take action on this issue. 'And are now calling for it all to go back to the drawing board, back to square one, to have another review. 'That feels to me like political point-scoring. I think that's very, very different to the case that you've mentioned. 'Because that young person was not in a position of responsibility, wasn't in government to take the decisions that should have been taken.' Asked if Tory leader Kemi Badenoch was 'jumping on the far-Right bandwagon' by calling for a new inquiry, Mr Kinnock said: 'That's what it looks like to me.' There has been a renewed focus on grooming gangs after the Government declined to commission an inquiry into sexual exploitation in Oldham, insisting it should be locally-led. Prof Jay this morning said 'the time has passed' for another lengthy examination of grooming gangs and that the current row is 'distracting from the issues'. She produced a report on grooming gangs in Rotherham in 2014 and then chaired the national inquiry into various forms of child sexual abuse which reported in 2022. 'We have learned a lot from those reviews that have already been undertaken,' she told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. 'Locally, people need to step up to the mark and do the things that have been recommended. 'I think that the time has passed for more inquiries. We've had enough of inquiries, consultations and discussions, and especially for those victims and survivors who've had the courage to come forward, and they clearly want action. 'We have set out what action is required and people should just get on with it. Locally and nationally.' New images show the crude homemade explosives New Orleans terrorist Shamsud-Din Jabbar left on the street before killing 14 in the horrifying rampage on New Year's Day. Pictures shared by the FBI show improvised weapons they say Jabbar tried and failed to detonate on Bourbon Street before plowing a rented truck into the crowd. Jabbar, 42, was seen on CCTV placing a pair of coolers at the scene shortly before the attack. Authorities say the coolers contained steel pipes surrounded by nails and a radio-controlled receiver, visible in images circulated by the Bureau. They also claimed to have found jars of flammable liquid in the rented Ford F-150 he drove into the crowds. Fourteen people were killed in the attack, along with Jabbar, who was fatally shot in a firefight with police after the rampage. At least 35 people were injured. Jabbar, a US Army veteran, posted on Facebook in the hours before the attack proclaiming his support for ISIS. The FBI shared images of rolls of nails packed inside a cooler with a receiver and steel pipes Jars containing an unnamed flammable liquid seen a car, shared by the FBI Jabbar wore Meta glasses but did not turn them on to live stream when he plowed through Bourbon Street Jabbar sped down the street after evading a police barrier, before driving into the crowds Images shared by the FBI showed large white coolers that Jabbar placed on the street just before the attack. He appeared to be on his cellphone while moving the coolers around, then turned to surveillance cameras and waved. The coolers contained rings of dozens of nails and a receiver with a long antenna. The bombs were later both rendered safe at the scene. Other images showed kitchen jars of flammable liquid stored in the car used in the attack. Investigators said previously that the bombs did not go off as Jabbar, a trained soldier, did not have a detonator with him. It was reported previously he did have a transmitter in his truck. Bomb-making materials were also found at an Airbnb he was staying at, and at his home in Texas. His Houston home contained a workbench in the garage and hazardous materials believed to have been used to make explosive devices, officials familiar with a search conducted there said. Coolers, like this one, were found at an intersection near the attack and made safe Two improvised explosive devices left in coolers several blocks apart were rendered safe at the scene Shamsud-Din Jabbar (pictured) had joined the army in 2007, serving on active duty in human resources and information technology and deploying to Afghanistan from 2009 to 2010. He transferred to the army reserve in 2015 and left in 2020 with the rank of staff sergeant An Islamic State flag lies on the ground rolled up behind the pickup truck that Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on Wednesday, Jan. 1 Jabbar also tried to burn down the rented New Orleans home by setting a small fire in a hallway with accelerants but the flames burned out before firefighters arrived. He is understood to have rented out the electric pickup truck some six weeks before the attack. Jabbar also made two trips to New Orleans prior to the heinous attack, one in October and a month later in November. The FBI has labeled the deadly New Year's Day attack, carried out solely by the Texas native, as an act of terrorism. Surveillance footage shared previously showed the suspect stopping at gun stores and shop where he purchased one of the ice chests used to hold the improvised explosive devices (IEDs) he planted. Jabbar purchased a cooler in Vidor, Texas, hours before the attack and gun oil from a store in Sulphur, Louisiana, investigators said. He left the crashed truck wearing a ballistic vest and helmet and fired at police, wounding at least two officers before he was fatally shot by police. Surveillance footage dated January 1 purports to show Jabbar before the attack Evidence recovered from the scene after Jabbar was shot dead by authorities on January 1 Officers are pictured near Jabbar's rented truck after the rampage and deadly shootout Investigators said they are probing leads across the country and abroad of Jabbar's movements leading up to the attack New Orleans police have declined to say how many shots were fired by Jabbar and the officers or whether any bystanders may have been hit, citing the active investigation. The coroner's office said all the victims died from blunt force injuries while Jabbar, was fatally shot in a firefight with police. The youngest victim was 18 years old and the oldest 63. Most victims were in their 20s. They came from Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, New Jersey and the United Kingdom. Elon Musk has claimed that his 'very poor' working class grandmother from Liverpool could have been a rape gang victim today. The Tesla billionaire said that his 'Nana' had 'no one to protect her' and could have fallen into the clutches of abusers had she been growing up in 2025. Cora Amelia Robinson, mother of Elon's father Errol, emigrated to South Africa but retained such a love for the country of her birth that she would always stand when the late Queen Elizabeth II was on TV. 'My Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present day Britain', her grandson tweeted today. Mr Musk is in the middle of a war of words with Sir Keir Starmer, who he says should be jailed for failing to tackle the issue during his five years as Director of Public Prosecutions. He has been accused of trying to interfere in and influence British politics and policy from the US. But today he suggested that the memory of his grandmother, who was born in 1923 and died in 2011 aged 87, was driving him on having been 'an important part of my childhood', which included time spent on Merseyside as a young child on holiday. 'She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2', he said. 'To earn money for food, she cleaned houses, leaving me with a lasting respect for those who do so'. It came amid reports via his father Errol that Mr Musk would love to buy Liverpool football club, given his family connection to the city. Elon Musk (second from left) at a family wedding in Canada attended by his British-born 'Nana' Cora (bottom row, far right) in 2001. She was born in Liverpool in 1923 and died in South Africa in 2011 aged 87 Elon Musk has been tweeting 24/7 about the rape gangs scandal in the UK Cora Amelia Robinson, who became Cora Musk after she married Walter Henry James Musk in 1944. She was born in Liverpool but moved to South Africa after marrying. Cora is pictured with Elon's father Errol in Johannesburg Mr Musk said her humble origins and a lack of protection growing up could have made her way victim today His supporters have pointed out the parallels to Donald Trump, whose mother is Scottish. The President elect has a deep affection for the UK and the Royal Family. Musk - who is said to be worth more than 380 billion - has become one of Britain's fiercest critics since Sir Keir Starmer's election win, warning the country has become 'a tyrannical police state'. But the South African-born Tesla tycoon once proudly declared he was 'from a British/English not an Afrilkaner background'. When Margaret Thatcher died in 2013, the entrepreneur paid tribute on Twitter - which he now owns and has rebranded as X - saying the late Prime Minister was 'tough but sensible and fair like my English Nana'. Cora Amelia Robinson, one of five siblings, was born in the family's modest terraced house in Mossley Hill, Liverpool in August 1923. She grew up in pre-war poverty as part of a 'proud, hard-working family' before leaving the UK to settle in South Africa where she married Walter Musk in 1944. The couple went on to have a son Errol who had three children of his own - Elon, brother Kimbal and sister Tosca. As well as the north west, Musk also has relatives in Gloucestershire. The Prime Minister yesterday accused Elon Musk of 'spreading lies and misinformation' about the handling of the grooming gangs scandal. The Prime Minister's war of words with the world's richest man intensified as he hit back at days of criticism. It culminated yesterday with Mr Musk saying the PM should be jailed for failing to tackle the issue during his five years as Director of Public Prosecutions. Downing Street had been wary of antagonising the tech billionaire, who has emerged as Donald Trump's right-hand man in recent months. But Sir Keir said a 'line had been crossed' when Mr Musk described safeguarding minister Jess Phillips as a 'rape genocide apologist' for refusing demands for a fresh inquiry into the sexual abuse of young girls by gangs of men of predominantly Pakistani origin. Mr Musk has also claimed that the Government is resisting a fresh inquiry because Sir Keir is 'complicit' in the failure by authorities to tackle the issue earlier. At a press conference in Epsom, Surrey, the PM read out a lengthy statement defending his record as head of the Crown Prosecution Service and condemning the frenzy of criticism on Mr Musk's social media site X. He said he had tackled the grooming gang scandal 'head on' during his time as DPP between 2008 and 2013. 'I could see what was happening, and that's why I reopened cases that have been closed and supposedly finished. I brought the first major prosecution of an Asian grooming gang,' he said. '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.' PODCAST: Detective Maggie Oliver shares the inside story on how the grooming gangs were finally brought down Musk has previously emphasised his English roots, and described former prime minister Margaret Thatcher as 'tough but sensible and fair like my English Nana' The front of the two-storey home built on the land where Musk's grandmother lived in Merseyside The PM did not mention a 2009 decision by the CPS to drop a major grooming gang case in Rochdale, despite the existence of DNA evidence. But he took credit for the decision four years later to bring the first case of its kind in the town four years later. He added: 'When I left office, we had the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record.' Sir Keir did not mention Mr Musk by name, but asked about the treatment of Ms Phillips he took a thinly veiled swipe at the multi-billionaire who has also called for the jailed far-Right activist Tommy Robinson to be freed. '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,' he said. '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.' He said Ms Phillips had 'done 1,000 times more than they've even dreamt about when it comes to protecting victims of sexual abuse throughout her entire career'. He added: '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.' Mr Musk responded with a string of further attacks on the PM on X, describing him as 'utterly despicable' and 'insane'. He accused the PM of refusing demands for a national inquiry because it would show he was 'deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes'. Keir Starmer is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk In a continuing tirade of attacks on Sir Keir, Mr Musk (pictured with Donald Trump) suggested the PM was 'complicit' in failure to tackle the abuse while director of public prosecutions Yesterday morning, he posted a poll on his X account asking whether America should 'liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government'. Senior government figures are nervous about the row with Mr Musk because of his close relationship with Mr Trump, who will return to the White House later this month. He has been involved in picking senior members of the President-elect's administration. Mr Musk has been engaged in a feud with Sir Keir since last summer when Downing Street criticised him for posting that 'civil war is inevitable' in the UK during the riots that followed the fatal stabbing of three girls in Southport. The Tesla owner has publicly backed Reform and was reported to be considering an 80million donation to Nigel Farage's party. But, in a shock move at the weekend, he called for Mr Farage to be removed as Reform leader after he rejected pressure to join forces with Robinson. The saga of Donald Trump's threats to take over Canada escalated as an Ontario politician floated a counteroffer to buy two U.S. states. While Trump's idea of Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state is largely seen as a major troll, the president-elect seems to be getting more and more serious about the idea. After Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday he is resigning as the country's leader, Trump credited himself with the move and noted people in Canada 'love' the idea of being a state. In response to Trump's threats, Ontario Premier Doug Ford suggested that Canada should actually absorb at least two U.S. states. 'You know something, to the president I'll make him a counteroffer; How about if we buy Alaska and throw in Minnesota and Minneapolis at the same time?' he told reporters amid the threat of looming U.S. tariffs and Trudeau's resignation announcement. He told CNN later on Monday that he was joking with his comments. And Canadian MP Charlie Angus declined the proposal by noting their nation's laws prevent 'sexual abusers' from becoming their leader. 'Canada has something called democracy,' the member of Parliament explained in a post to X. 'It means the leader is accountable to Parliament and can be replaced.' 'I bet Americans wish they had that now. And convicted sexual abusers don't get to lead our nation. We're decent folk,' he added in reference to the allegations against the president-elect. Last month, Trump suffered a legal setback as a federal appeals court upheld a New York jury's decision finding him liable in the E. Jean Carroll sex abuse and defamation case. Ontario Premier Doug Ford buy Alaska and Minnesota from the U.S. in response to Donald Trump's continued proposal for Canada to become the 51st U.S. state Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned on Monday after Trump continuously humiliated the leader by calling him Governor Trudeau after claiming Canada should become a state if it can't handle his proposal for 25 percent tariffs Trump told reporters that the U.S. is 'not treated well by Canada' during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday. 'Canada is subsidized to the tune of about $200 billion a year plus other things. They don't essentially have a military. They have a very small military. They rely on our military. It's all fine but, you know, they have to pay for that. It's very unfair,' Trump lamented. 'Something has to be done.' He then repeated that he believes former Canadian professional ice hockey player Wayne Gretzky should run for prime minister. 'And we are going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada,' he reiterated. 'They come through Canada, too. The drugs coming through are at record numbers,' Trump explained. 'So we are going to make up for that by putting tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Substantial tariffs. We want to get along with everybody but, you know it takes two to tango.' Trump announced in late November his intent to impose a 25 percent tariff on Canada and Mexico in direct response to the proliferation of the migrant and fentanyl crisis. This sparked Trudeau to immediately fly down to Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence for a meeting where he scrambled to get the incoming U.S. president to change his mind about the tariffs. He told Trump that the tariffs would cripple the Canadian economy, to which Trump suggested that the northern neighbors become a state to side-step the taxes. Trump believes that Canada is costing the U.S. money and should suffer the economic consequences. Ontario Premier Ford says Canada is not to blame for any U.S. economic woes, instead pointing the finger at China for sending in 'cheap parts.' 'I've talked to so many governors and congresspeople and senators and never once did they say Canada is the problem,' Ford told CNN's Erin Burnett in a Monday night interview. 'I'll tell you who the problem is: China is the problem. China shipping in cheap parts, putting them through Mexico. Mexico slapping on a 'Made in Mexico' sticker on and shipping up through the U.S. and Canada. (It's) costing American and Canadian jobs.' Ford believes a bilateral deal with the U.S. would address the issue instead of Trump punishing Canada with higher tariffs. Trudeau announced in remarks outside his residence on Monday morning that he will step down as Canada's Prime Minister Trump doubled-down on his proposal to make Canada a state on Monday, appearing to be more serious about the proposal. 'Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State,' Trump wrote on Truth Social after Trudeau's resignation. '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,' he wrote. 'Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!' Ford claims Trump has a sense of humor and in the past has joked when asked about Canada becoming a state. But on Monday he seemed to think enough was enough, saying: 'It's not realistic.' 'I know he (Trump) likes making these comments and he likes joking around. I take that seriously. He may be joking, but under my watch, that will never, ever happen.' In a recent post to X, Trump's son Eric shared a photoshopped image of his father purchasing Canada on Amazon, along with Greenland and the Panama Canal two other countries the president-elect has floated absorbing. Trudeau's Liberal Party in Canada disagreed on how to handle Trump in a second presidential term. This ultimately led to his resignation on Monday. Trudeau will remain in power until his party selects a new leader. In terms of the Canadian general elections coming up in the fall, polls indicate conservatives will win back power with Pierre Poilievre as their leader. Trump told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt on Monday morning that it would be 'very good' if Poilievre took over as Canadian PM. '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. A popular self help author who was blamed for the 'cult-like' sweat lodge deaths of three people has passed away at the age of 67. The family of James Arthur Ray announced his passing on X last week, saying the author died 'suddenly and unexpectedly' on January 3. 'Obviously, this has left the three of us in total and complete shock. James was always larger than life and lived it to the fullest,' his brother, Jon Ray, wrote. 'His passion in life was always to make others' lives better and more fulfilled. I'm happy to say that he accomplished that thousands of times over,' he continued. 'Thank you, James Arthur Ray. You gave so much. You will always be loved, you will always be missed, you will always be admired, your legacy will live on in everyone you helped, me included.' The family did not elaborate on the details of his death. Stephanie Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County in Nevada where Ray was residing, said it had received a death report of a man matching Rays name and age. Ray was convicted of three counts of negligent homicide after the 2009 deaths of Kirby Brown, 38, of New York; James Shore, 40, of Wisconsin; and Liz Neuman, 49, of Minnesota. The sweat lodge deaths occurred after dozens of people traveled to a scenic retreat just outside Sedona in October 2009 for Rays five-day 'Spiritual Warrior' event. The family of James Arthur Ray announced his passing on X last week, saying the author died 'suddenly and unexpectedly' on January 3. The family did not elaborate on the details of his death Ray was convicted of three counts of negligent homicide after the 2009 deaths of Kirby Brown (pictured), 38, of New York; James Shore, 40, of Wisconsin; and Liz Neuman, 49, of Minnesota The sweat lodge was the culminating event, touted as 'hellacious hot' and a chance for participants to have powerful breakthroughs and was the last activity of the retreat. Participants spent around two hours in the sweat lodge, where temperatures spiked at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 'I could feel it going in my nose and down my throat - actually physically burning the inside of my body as it was going in,' a participant previously said. 'The sounds that were going on in the tent were so intense. People screaming blood-curling screams. There was wow.' Brown and Shore died inside the lodge, while Neuman fell into a coma and died in the hospital more than a week later. Eighteen others were also injured. 'He was using cult-like tactics to control and influence people,' Jean, Brown's sister, told AZ Family. At trial, prosecutors said Ray ratcheted up the heat to dangerous levels, ignored pleas for help, and watched as overcome participants were dragged out of the sweat lodge. A jury acquitted Ray of more serious manslaughter charges and convicted him of negligent homicide. He received a two-year sentence. Ray, who had made appearances on Oprah and Larry King, was released from custody in July 2013. He was sentenced to two years in custody and was released in July 2013. Participants spent around two hours in a sweat lodge, where temperatures spiked at 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Brown and Shore were died inside the lodge, while Neuman fell into a coma and later died Ray had acknowledged that he was responsible for the deaths, but offered no excuses for his lack of action as the chaos unfolded at the sweat lodge. 'Part of the complicated set of emotions that Im feeling now is a bit of a sense of disappointment that he could have really owned his mistakes and been a part of trying to change the industry for the better,' Jean told AZ Family. After leaving prison, Ray remained active in the self-help industry. He frequently posted videos on social media of himself and his wife, Bersabeh Ray, offering advice. The couple also hosted a podcast, Modern Alchemy, and maintained a website where Ray offered one-on-one video sessions up to 90 minutes for $2,500. In the wake of Browns death, her family established Seek Safely, an organization offering support for those who may be vulnerable to exploitation by the self-help industry. In a statement on the organizations website, Browns sister, Jean, offered condolences and said Ray was just one of many operators 'in a multi-billion dollar per year industry built on the exploitation of those who would improve their lives and find fulfillment.' 'His passion in life was always to make others' lives better and more fulfilled. I'm happy to say that he accomplished that thousands of times over,' his brother wrote in a tribute 'We can only, at this juncture, remind seekers that no "guru," or program, or mindset is larger than life or without fault,' she wrote. 'That a journey of self-improvement is noble and vulnerable. That we must always remain in charge of that process of growth and change, rooted in our values, our worth, and our right to seek free from harm.' Jean believes Brown would have been 'feeling a bit relieved' at the news of his passing as he 'wouldn't be able to harm anyone else.' A young girl and her grandmother were killed by her father in a murder-suicide that shocked their upstate New York community. Anne Mancuso, 11, was found unresponsive and suffering from gun shot wounds on the front porch of her neighbor's house on Hollyvale Drive in Brighton on Friday. Brighton Police said she was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. Investigators found a bullet hole in a window and open doors at Anne's mother's house next door. Inside, police discovered the bodies of Anne's grandmother, 74-year-old Mary Liccini, and her father, 53-year-old Lawrence Mancuso, who they believe killed them in a murder-suicide. 'The investigation concluded that Lawrence Mancuso was responsible for the deaths of Anne and Mary before taking his own life,' Brighton Police said. Liccini was Anne's maternal grandmother, according to a GoFundMe page set up for the family. Anne's mother, Sarah Liccini, was reportedly out of town when the tragedy occurred. Anne Mancuso (pictured), 11, and her grandmother were killed by her father in an apparent murder-suicide Anne was found unresponsive and suffering from gun shot wounds on the front porch of her neighbor's house on Hollyvale Drive in Brighton 'Sarah Liccini faced the unimaginable. Her beloved 11 year old daughter, Anne (Annie), and her mother, Mary Liccini, were tragically taken in an act of domestic violence,' the fundraiser page said. 'This devastating loss left Sarah, her father, John Liccini, and her family reeling after such a horrific event.' Lawrence called the police to the same house just one day before the killings, according to WHEC. He was the assistant dean for human resources at Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, but had been on leave since October. Anne was a sixth-grader at Twelve Corners Middle School and described as a 'good kid with a big heart.' 'Annie was known to her friends and teachers as a kind, sweet, and beautiful person in every way,' Brighton Central School District Superintendent Kevin McGowan said. 'A thoughtful, caring student and very special friend, Annie was such a gift to her friends, family, and school community.' Ashley Baker, the mother of Anne's friend A'Laila, said the girl was the first friend of her daughter when they moved to the area in February. Anne's maternal grandmother Mary Liccini (left) was also killed in tragedy 'She met Annie the first day,' Baker told WHAM. 'Annie kind of took her under her wing, showed her around, gave her a friend when she didn't know anybody at all, and just made her feel more comfortable being in that new space, a new environment.' 'She made a difference in my daughter's life. When transitioning over into a new school and district, she was the first one.' Harrowing footage has emerged of a seaplane crashing into the sea near a popular tourist spot shortly after take-off in front of shocked beachgoers. A pilot and six passengers were on board when the privately-owned Cessna 208 plunged into the water near Thompson Bay at Rottnest Island, 19km off the coast of Perth on Tuesday afternoon. A major search and rescue operation continued late into the night for three people who remain missing. Confronting footage filmed by onlookers showed the Swan River Seaplane-run plane struggling to take-off before taking a sharp dip to the left. The wingtip hit the water before the plane dived nose-first into the ocean at Phillip Rock at the entrance of Thompson Bay as tourists on Rottnest Island reacted in horror. 'It took ages to get off the water but then right towards the end it just really didn't look (good),' Anna Connolly told Seven News. 'We had a feeling, everyone thought something was wrong, it didn't look very good at all.' Other onlookers reported seeing the plane moving from side to side moments before the left wing hit the water. Beachgoers filmed the terrifying moment a seaplane crashed into the ocean The aircraft (pictured) plunged into the water near Thompson Bay off Rottnest Island about 4pm on Tuesday Two women aged in their 40s and a third passenger were airlifted to Perth's Fiona Stanley Hospital with serious injuries but are reported to be in a stable condition. A fourth survivor was also injured. It's understood some of the passengers were tourists holidaying from interstate, The West Australian reported. Parts of the wreckage were recovered and towed to a jetty on the island on Tuesday night. 'I do want to reassure the community that we have significant resources on the scene and we are doing everything that we can,' WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch said. West Australian Premier Roger Cook spent the night being briefed by authorities about the ongoing search and rescue efforts. An aerial search for the three people unaccounted for will resume on Wednesday morning. 'The images we are seeing of an emergency unfolding off Rottnest Island are deeply concerning,' the premier posted on X. 'My thoughts are with all those affected, and I want to thank our first responders who are attending to the crash site.' It's not yet known why the plane crashed. Four survivors were rescued from the ocean after the seaplane crash. Pictured is the wreckage Witnesses noticed the plane moving side to side before the left wing (pictured centre) hit the water Shocked witnesses described the scenes as chaotic. 'I saw two injured people. One guy was limping. He needed support to get off the boat. He would have been in his late 30s maybe,' Elisa Meazzi told Perth Now. 'Then a woman in her 50s. Then one in her 20s.' Hayden Harvey told The West Australian: 'We saw the plane go down, just as it was about to collide with the water.' 'It was probably about 300m offshore. It was just a big splash, it wasn't a big explosion or anything crazy.' Another man recalled a lot of police sirens. 'I thought it was a shark attack or something,' he said. Another witness heard the sounds of police and emergency service vehicles and saw water police surrounding the wreckage. 'We didn't know what had happened because we were on the other side of the island, so we drove past and then we saw these helicopters and we thought there must have been a plane crash,' he said. Phone from the scene showed the front half of the small seaplane submerged into the water. Several parts of the plane were damaged, including the wings. Previously owned by Whitsunday Air Services, the plane was a recent new addition to Swan River Seaplanes' fleet. The aircraft arrived on New Year's Day from Sydney. Built and registered in 2016, the plane can carry up to 14 passengers. Four people were rescued from the water with three airlifted to hospital (pictured) Swan River Seaplane is working with authorities. 'Our priority is our pilot and passengers,' director Kristy Bailey said. Rottnest Island, which is also known as Wadjemup, is a popular tourist spot which attracts thousands of visitors each year. The island, which is also home to the world-famous marsupial quokkas, has a small airport and various companies offer flights to and from the mainland. MBABANE The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) says the contract of the company engaged to recover scholarships should continue under close monitoring. This comes after the PAC scalded the Controlling Officer and Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Makhosini Mndawe, for not honouring Parliament is resolution. According to the PAC recommendations on the Auditor Generals Financial Audit Report on Government Accounts for the financial year ended on March 31, 2021, the controlling officer was urged to review the contract between government and the scholarship recovery company, because the PAC felt the nature of the contract was prejudicial to government, since the services provided by the contractor could easily be provided by the Ministry of Public Service and the Treasury Department. The PAC of the 11th Parliament and the 12th Parliament said they felt that the company should only be engaged to collect from the private sector and outside the borders, not for civil servants since the Treasury Department can easily do that and the funds use to pay the company could boost other sectors. When the Ministry of Labour and Social Security was before the PAC, the controlling officer told the PAC that the contract was renewed in 2023 for a period not exceeding three years. Mndawe told the PAC that ever since the private company was engaged, there had been a huge improvement in terms of recovering the government study loans from beneficiaries. The PS stated that government tried to collect the loans from beneficiaries on its own, but due to inefficiencies, they roped in the company. He said government received an average of E65 million per year that is collected by the consultant. He stated that the consultant was entitled to 10 per cent of the total collection. Discovery Following the discovery, the PAC visited the company. During the PACs visit to the company, the committee was reportedly taken through the operations of the consortium and they were able to respond to questions that were posed by the MPs, who are members of the PAC. The aim of the visit according to the source was to see the expertise applied to collect study loans from beneficiaries among other things. The PAC Chairperson Madala Mhlanga when he was asked about that visit, said the PAC resolved that, before making a recommendation on the matter, they needed to visit the consortium offices to get first-hand information to make an informed decision when making a recommendation regarding the non-compliance with the House Resolution. In the 2024 PAC recommendations report that was adopted by Parliament, the PAC said the signed contract between government and the company should continue under strict monitoring.The controlling officer is, therefore, urged to continue as per the agreement and ensure that progress and performance of the company is monitored, says the recommendation. A mother has died after eating poisoned rice that also killed her two children and brother at a New Year's Day lunch in Brazil. Francisca da Silva, 32, was pronounced dead during the early hours of Tuesday at Dircea Arcoverde State Hospital in Parnaiba, a city in the northeastern state of Piaui. Her death comes a day after her three-year-old daughter, Maria Lauane da Silva, died. Her one-year-old son, Igno da Silva, died last Thursday. Francisca da Silva's 18-year-old brother, Manoel da Silva, died in an ambulance while he was being rushed to a local hospital. Her four-year-old daughter, Maria Gabrielle da Silva, is under observation and in critical condition at Teresina Emergency Hospital in Teresina. 'At this time of immense pain, we express our sincere condolences to the patient's family and reaffirm that the multidisciplinary team at HEDA worked with total dedication, following all necessary protocols and measures to ensure the best care during her stay at the unit,' the hospital said in a statement following Francisca's death. Four other family members have been discharged from hospital, where they received treatment after eating the rice, which authorities confirmed was contaminated with terbufos, a toxic substance found in pesticides and agriculture chemicals. Its sale for residential use is prohibited under Brazilian law. The tragedy comes months after da Silva's two oldest children died after eating poisoned cashews. Francisca da Silva died during the early hours of Tuesday. The 32-year-old consumed poisoned rice for a New Year's Day lunch, which also claimed the lives of her two children, aged 1 and 3, and 18-year-old brother. Her four-year-old daughter is fighting for her life at a hospital Three-year-old Maria Lauane da Silva died during the early hours of Monday at a hospital in Teresina, Brazil. The child is the fourth person from the same family to die from eating poisoned rice during a New Year's Day lunch. Her mother, one-year-old brother and 18-year-old uncle also died Igno da Silva, 1, died on January 2, a day after he and eight other family members consumed poisoned rice for a New Year's Day lunch at his home in Parnaiba, a city in the northeastern Brazilian state of Piaui. His mother, three-year-old sister and 18-year-old uncle also died. His four-year-old sister remains hospitalized A neighbor, who is under arrest, gifted a package of nuts to Joao da Silva, 7, and Ulisses da Silva, 8, on August 23, 2004. Joao died five days later and Ulisses spent nearly three months hospitalized and died November 11. The Piaui Civil Police said that the two incidents are not related and are investigating how the rice was poisoned. 'It's impossible for it to have ended up there without someone's intention,' Civil Police chief Abimael Silva said, as quoted by Brazilian news outlet G1. Dr. Antonio Nunes, who oversees the Piaui Institute of Legal Medicine, told the outlet that there were 'visible granules' of terbufos in the rice that was collected. Manoel da Silva, 18, died the afternoon of New Year's Day moments after he consumed leftover rice that had been contaminated with terbufos, a substance that is found in pesticides and agriculture chemicals Authorities in the northeastern Brazilian state of Piaui analyze the leftover rice that the family had as part of their lunch on New Year's Day and found that it had traces of terbufos, a substance that is found in pesticides and agriculture chemicals Authorities said the family came together to celebrate New Year's Eve on December 31 and had a meal of rice, beans and meat and showed no side effects before some of the family members and a neighbor returned to their homes at dawn. They gathered at the same residence January 1 and reheated the rice and served it with fish that was donated by a couple that do charity work in the neighborhood. The group fell ill shortly after 12 noon before paramedics were called. Authorities initially thought the family had been poisoned by the fish before toxicology reports showed the victims had traces of the pesticide that is similar to chumbinho, a rat poison. Police have not identified any suspects, but have ruled out the involvement of family members. Francisca da Silva with her one-year-old son Igno and three-year-old daughter Maria Lauane Inside the kitchen at the Parnaiba, Brazil residence where a meal that included the contaminated rice was prepared for a New Year's Day lunch that lead to the deaths of four people A police officer receives a bag containing left overs from the meal that killed four family members and hospitalized five in Parnaiba, Brazil The New Year's Day family tragedy comes as Brazilian authorities were also tied up with the investigation surrounding a poisoned Christmas cake and the deaths of three family members in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul on December 23. On Sunday, the Civil Police announced the arrest of Deise dos Anjos, the daughter-in-law of Zeli dos Santos, who helped bake the cake that killed her two sisters Neuza dos Anjos, 65, and Maida da Silva, 53, and her niece and Neuza's daughter, Tatiana dos Anjos, 47. During a press conference Monday, authorities revealed that Deise was motivated by a 'family dispute of more than 20 years' that she had with Zeli, but did not offer more details. They also said that the flour that was used to make the cake contained arsenic, a toxic substance that is found in pesticides. Authorities are also investigating whether Deise was involved in the September death her father-in-law and Zeli's husband, Paulo Luiz. While his death was said to be from natural causes, authorities have requested that his body be exhumed to determine if he too was poisoned. No10 denied being forced into action over the grooming gangs scandal by Elon Musk today. The PM's spokesman said the government wanted to underline how 'seriously' it was taking the issue. But they insisted action to implement some of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse's recommendations had not come this week as a result of the latest uproar. Downing Street also said that Mr Musk's barrage of abuse against Sir Keir had not come up at the weekly Cabinet meeting this morning. Sir Keir is scrambling to steady the ship after brutal clashes with Mr Musk and accusations that he had 'smeared' those calling for a national inquiry into grooming gangs as helping the 'far-Right'. The premier fueled the backlash after swiping yesterday that politicians who want an overarching probe into the rape of thousands of white girls by gangs of predominantly Pakistani-origin men were 'amplifying what the far-Right are saying'. As it tries to quell the row, the government has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is tabling a Commons amendment designed to force a vote on an inquiry, which could come as early as tomorrow. However, Professor Alexis Jay, who chaired the previous independent inquiry into Child Sex Abuse, said this morning that 'people should just get on with' implementing its recommendations rather than holding another one. Keir Starmer is scrambling to steady the ship today after brutal clashes with Elon Musk In a continuing tirade of attacks on Sir Keir, Mr Musk (pictured with Donald Trump) suggested the PM was 'complicit' in failure to tackle the abuse while director of public prosecutions The latest phase of the scandal erupted when it emerged that the government had rejected a request from Oldham Council for a national inquiry into historical child sexual exploitation - saying the local authority should lead it instead. Tesla tycoon Mr Musk pushed the issue up the agenda by wading in on his X social media site. In a continuing tirade of attacks on Sir Keir, he suggested the PM was 'complicit' in failure to tackle the abuse while director of public prosecutions. Mr Musk has also insisted Sir Keir should be in 'prison', and asked followers whether the US should 'liberate' Britain from 'tyrannical government'. But asked whether the backlash had sped up the response, the PM's official spokesman said: 'The Government has been working since it came into office on measures to protect children, to halve violence against women and girls. 'On mandatory reporting, the Prime Minister and Home Secretary called for these changes 10 years ago. Work on the mandatory reporting criminal offence, the write-round for that kicked off last year and obviously has just concluded ahead of the announcement, so obviously that work's been ongoing for some time.' PODCAST: Whistleblower Maggie Oliver on how she brought down the Rochdale grooming gangs He added: 'It's important the Government explains to the public how seriously the Government is taking this issue, so I think it's natural in response to the recent coverage the Government explains what the Government's been doing in this space. 'As Alexis Jay spoke about the Government has been engaged with her, with victims' groups, since the election it's been working on a number of these measures.' Grilled at a press conference yesterday, the PM described child sexual exploitation as 'utterly sickening'. But he robustly 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'. However, 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 doesn't need more consultation. It doesn't need more research. It just needs action.' Ms Badenoch accused 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'.' 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. Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick insisted it is 'not about Elon Musk' and his focus is on the victims. Asked whether the Conservatives had done enough to tackle the issue in government, Mr Jenrick repeatedly told BBC Breakfast 'more needs to be done'. He said: 'Clearly more needed to be done, that's why I think we have to take this forward, that's why we do need to have a fully national inquiry.' Arguing that 'a number of significant steps were taken' by Conservative home secretaries, Mr Jenrick also called for perpetrators to receive whole-life sentences. As it tries to quell the row, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced that the law will be changed to make it mandatory for social workers, teachers, police and others working with children to report suspected sexual abuse Kemi Badenoch accused the PM of 'applying Labour smear tactics from 20 years ago' He said: 'I have long advocated going further than that and saying you should have a full-life sentence if you are a grooming gang perpetrator, so you never see the light of day, so you go to jail, you don't step foot out on the streets of our country in 10 years or so, as is happening at the moment. 'This is one of the most appalling racially aggravated crimes in our country's history. It must be taken more seriously by everyone.' 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.' A former San Diego detective has accused the department of protecting her sergeant husband after she reported domestic abuse. Allyson Ford, who joined the San Diego Police Department at the age of 16 as a Volunteer Cadet and went on to be named Officer of the Year in 2014, sued the precinct over allegations of retaliation, wrongful termination and discrimination. She claims that the department systematically covered up complaints of violence by her then-husband, Sergeant Mitchell Ford and did not take appropriate action. 'I wholeheartedly believed in the San Diego Police Department. I believed in the value and integrity and accountability that the badge represented. But in April 2020, my belief was shattered. 'I'm speaking out today, not just for myself, but for everybody who has been failed by the system. The San Diego Police Department's culture of retaliation and cover-ups must end,' she said in a press conference. In a lengthy lawsuit, the former officer claims that her husband assaulted her and endangered their then-2-year-old autistic son while intoxicated at their home in Escondido, California on April 9, 2020. Allyson explained she was reportedly physically blocked, shoved into a wall and had her face pinned to a wall which resulted in a bruise under her left eye. During the incident, Mitchell allegedly also threatened to shoot her and 'repeatedly called her "bitch", "cunt", "slut", "skank" and "whore" while in the presence of their son'. Allyson Ford, who joined the San Diego Police Department at the age of 16 as a Volunteer Cadet and went on to be named Officer of the Year in 2014, sued the precinct over allegations of retaliation, wrongful termination and discrimination According to court documents, 'Sgt. Ford falsely accused Allyson of having an affair with another SDPD employee, referred to as "Detective Doe." 'Sgt. Ford even threatened to "swat" Detective Doe, which is the criminal practice of making a false call to the police in an attempt to bring about the dispatch of a large number of armed police officers to a particular address. 'In other words, Sgt. Ford was threatening to abuse his police power to cause the cold-blooded execution of a fellow officer. 'Sgt. Ford threatened to cause SDPD to terminate Allyson's and Detective Does employment, bragging he "had friends in high places in the department" and Allyson was "stupid" if she tried to resist. The terrified detective ended up calling cops to her house and responding lieutenants from SDPD spoke to Escondido Police. She ended up reporting felony domestic violence, DUI, harassment, threats and blackmail against Mitchell but to no avail. Furthermore, Allyson claims that her husband was never arrested or forced to surrender his weapons despite a judge-granted restraining order against him. After her report was lodged, the star detective revealed that department leaders began retaliating by denying her requests for leave and placing her under internal investigation multiple times. She claims that the department systematically covered up complaints of violence by her then-husband, Sergeant Mitchell Ford and did not take appropriate action Allyson explained she was reportedly physically blocked, shoved into a wall and had her face pinned to a wall which resulted in a bruise under her left eye During the incident, Mitchell allegedly also threatened to shoot her and 'repeatedly called her "bitch", "cunt", "slut", "skank" and "whore" while in the presence of their son' Attorney John Gomez elaborated: 'Instead of supporting her, the San Diego Police Department ignored these findings, dismissed crucial evidence and allowed her husband to remain armed and in the field. 'We believe the evidence in this case will prove that instead of investigating her complaints, they dismissed her reports, and instead of protecting her and her young son, enabled her husband to avoid the consequences, retain his firearms, violate restraining orders and continued to threaten and torment her, all the while acting as an active duty police officer.' Apart from this, the lawsuit further claims that the department's management was providing Mitchell with confidential information about her complaints - including facts about her restraining order and child custody proceedings in order to protect the accused. She submitted her resignation from her job in January 2024. 'I tried to move on, and I tried to move forward. But you can't do that when your department keeps putting you under investigation. 'I really tried to stay and I tried to make it work, but the environment became so toxic I had no choice but to resign,' she continued. 'The San Diego Police Department, to me, was supposed to be my career, my life for the rest of my working life. And they ended that.' She explained that she was speaking out to change the department's 'boys' club' culture and that she never wanted it to come to this. She ended up reporting felony domestic violence, DUI, harassment, threats and blackmail against Mitchell but to no avail. Furthermore, Allyson claims that her husband was never arrested or forced to surrender his weapons despite a judge-granted restraining order against him Apart from this, the lawsuit further claims that the department's management was providing Mitchell with confidential information about her complaints - including facts about her restraining order and child custody proceedings in order to protect the accused After her report was lodged, the star detective revealed that department leaders began retaliating by denying her requests for leave and placing her under internal investigation multiple times 'This was by far the hardest decision I ever had to make. In the beginning, all I wanted was for this to just go away. 'I never wanted my son to be able to Google this later and find out what's happening. 'This isn't what anybody dreams of or wants, but it got so bad that I just couldn't help but think that I would not have wished this treatment on my worst enemy. 'And I hope that they take this as a chance to make changes so that it doesn't happen again to anybody else. I hope it ends with me,' Allyson said during yesterday's conference. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages. A court date has yet to be set. DailyMail.com has reached out to the San Diego Police Department for a comment. Teachers in New Jersey are no longer required to pass basic reading, writing and mathematics tests to be eligible for a position at a public school. The blue state's controversial Act 1669, which is intended to tackle the state's critical teacher shortage by making it easier for aspiring educators to join the profession, officially went into effect on January 1. The change has drawn criticism, sparking further debate around the standards for teacher certification. 'We need more teachers,' Democratic state Sen. Jim Beach argued when the bill was passed, the New Jersey Monitor reported. 'This is the best way to get them.' Phil Murphy, New Jersey's Democratic governor, signed the measure this past June - eliminating potential educators from having to pass the Praxis Core Test, a basic skills exam covering topics such as reading, writing and math as a result. 'The State Board of Education shall not require a candidate seeking a certificate of eligibility, a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing, a provisional certificate or a standard instructional certificate to complete a Commissioners of Education-approved test of basic reading, writing and mathematics skills,' the law states. 'Including, but not limited to, the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test, in order to obtain a certificate of eligibility, a certificate of eligibility with advanced standing, a provisional certificate, or a standard instructional certificate.' More than 40 states and territories in the nation use the Praxis Core test as a way to hire their teachers. Teachers in New Jersey are no longer required to pass basic reading, writing and mathematics tests to be eligible for a position within public schools due to a new law that went into effect on January 1 In June, Phil Murphy, New Jersey's Democratic governor, signed the controversial Act 1669 - a bill that aims to tackle teacher shortages in the state by making it easier for aspiring educators to join the profession The exam itself is deemed difficult because it requires a deep understanding of the content and effective teaching practices. The law received broad support in the state legislature, receiving a 34-2 vote in passing. The move was part of a larger effort to confront a national shortage of educators in the country, which particularly effects states like New Jersey, where schools have faced difficulties in hiring enough qualified staff. Several school districts in the state were suffering from a severe shortage as students headed back to their desks after summer break just four months ago. 'We find ourselves at a critical juncture where talented educators are leaving the profession at an alarming rate,' Colleen Grywacz, a teacher in the Hackettstown school district, said at a public hearing in September. In Paterson, there were more than 150 open teaching positions when the school year started, Chalkbeat Newark reported. Many of the vacancies across the state are in hard-to-fill positions - science, world languages and special education being a few. While the new law eliminates testing for basic skills, the state will still require teachers to hold a bachelor's degree along with passing specialized tests within their subject area. The law was met with broad support in the state's legislature and received a 34-2 vote in passing The law has earned condemnation from many, including billionaire Elon Musk According to the New Jersey Education Association, the law will remove an 'unnecessary barrier' to those who wish to teach but may not perform well on standardized tests. The association, which represents the state's largest teachers union, celebrated Murphy's signing of the bill at the time. In a statement, officials of the NJEA said that qualified candidates who have earned their degree and completed their student teaching 'should not be barred from our classrooms on the basis of a one-off standardized test that cannot effectively measure the knowledge or skills needed to be a great teacher.' However, Act 1669 has attracted condemnation from many, including billionaire Elon Musk. 'So teachers don't need to know how to read in New Jersey?' Musk posted to X on Sunday. 'Seems like that would make it challenging to teach kids how to read.' Erika Sanzi, director of outreach for Parents Defending Education - an organization that advocates for parents to have a voice in what their children learn in school - has also publicly blasted the law. According to Sanzi, the entire purpose of the test is to screen teachers who lack 'basic competency in reading, writing and math' and that New Jersey had eliminated a 'very low rigor test,' the Christian Post reported. 'It is a major red flag that so many aspiring teachers fail that test - and it is indefensible that the teachers' union and state legislature decided that the solution to that problem was to eliminate the test altogether,' she told the outlet. 'This decision to lower the most basic standards does not bode well for students but is a win for the unions,' she added. 'Just bad all around.' Their remarks have ignited a larger conversation on the internet surrounding the balance of the teaching shortage while maintaining the quality of education. Many people have shared their worries that bypassing basic testing may undermine the quality of teaching, especially around subjects that are crucial. 'I have been teaching for 25 years. This infuriates me,' read one comment on X. 'I worked hard to get my degrees while working full-time and raising 3 children. If I found time to study and pass these tests, these young kids can too.' Another comment read: 'Absolutely unbelievable. So they're hiring babysitters instead.' But New Jersey is not the only state that has attempted to address the declining teacher shortage by changing its standards. In 2021, California Governor Gavin Newsroom signed the TK-12 Education Trailer Bill, which eliminated two different exams for potential teachers as long as they could demonstrate basic skills and knowledge of the subject they plan to teach. The very next year, Arizona passed a law that allowed aspiring educators to teach in the classroom while simultaneously obtaining their degree. According to a Gallup survey conducted in 2022, K-12 teachers have one of the highest burnout rates compared to other industries. An elderly woman living in poverty with no family wrote a tear-jerking note to restaurant staff who gave her a free burger on Christmas Day. The unidentified woman wrote the touching missive to the staff at Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes in Springfield, Missouri, after its owner offered a free burger to anyone in need on December 25. 'A very heartfelt thank you for the kindness of you all! It would have been a very boring Christmas for me as I have no family left,' she wrote in perfect cursive. 'I never thought of this years ago, but being the youngest in my family, I have seen everyone leave this Earth before me.' She explained that she has been living off of her social security payments, forcing her to 'downsize' to renting a room and sharing a house. 'I feel like I'm in college again!' she wrote. 'A dear friend heard about the offer of the free meal and invited me out for Christmas lunch. Great idea since I was down to $1! 'The meal was wonderful as were the staff. Thank you again for making it a day to remember! Blessings.' Restaurant owner Mike Jalili was deeply moved by the woman's letter and now wants to invite her to enjoy a belated holiday celebration with him and his family. A elderly customer sent Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes in Springfield a message, thanking them for their kindness and explaining her loneliness around the holiday season Black Sheep has four locations throughout the state of Missouri and has been ranked by TripAdvisor as having the best burgers in the state (pictured: the downtown Springfield location) He explained: 'We gave complimentary burgers on Christmas Day, no reservations, no names, we just take care of needy .. She happened to come in there that day and few days later we got this letter.' Jalili told DailyMail.com that this is the second year the restaurant has given out free burgers to help out his community 'as much as possible.' He is still not sure who the woman is and shared the letter to Black Sheep's Facebook page in a bid to track her down. Jalili wrote: 'We are looking for this lady that sent this letter to downtown Blacksheep, if you know who she is please private message us. 'Im wanting to invite her to our house for holidays, this is the reason Im trying to locate her.' Although he has not had any luck yet, he is hopeful that he will be able identify the woman with his community's help. 'There is something about this letter that has touched all of us including our community, everyone in our community are wanting us to find her,' he told DailyMail.com. 'She gets to eat on us anytime just like my family doesnt pay to eat at our restaurants.' Black Sheep customers have reacted to the note and Jalili's friendly intentions, saying they are 'not surprised' by his gesture. The owner of Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes in Springfield, Mike Jalili, said he wants to locate the sweet woman to invite her to his home for a belated holiday celebration One woman shared: 'This doesnt surprise me that the owners are trying to include her as family and invite her to their gatherings! They invited my Dad many times when he said our family did not! And he went!' 'My heart breaks for this poor lady but so thankful you guys were a safe place for her on a holiday,' another user chimed in. 'Gah, this had me in tears. I really hope you find her. I bet a lot of us in the area would gladly befriend her as well,' someone said. According to their website, Black Sheep has four locations throughout Missouri. TripAdvisor ranked their burgers as the best in entire state. An Alabama woman accused of gunning down her husband on New Year's Day made a shocking claim about the fatal shooting in a jailhouse interview. Genesis Patricia Tanksley, 27, dropped her husband, Lazarus Tanksley, at the hospital and then drove away after he was fatally shot in the chest, according to the Mobile County Sheriff's Office. Witnesses reported that Tanksley fatally shot her husband during an argument, but she claimed that another person was responsible. Tanksley told WKRG that she was 'wrongly accused by law enforcement' and a mystery man had shot her husband. 'There was a guy that was there, I noticed him,' Tanksley told the outlet, describing the person as around 5-foot-8 with a darker complexion. She recalled that the stranger had attempted to get into the backseat of her car asking for a ride. 'Lazarus came to the right side of the door, and then he opened it. Then pow! The gun went off,' she claimed. Tanksley said that she knew right away that her husband was dead, saying he was 'already shaking' and that she could 'see his soul leaving his body.' Genesis Patricia Tanksley, 27, was charged with murdering her husband, Lazarus Tanksley. She said that she was 'wrongly accused by law enforcement' and that a stranger had killed 'the love of her life' Tanksley, who claimed she 'doesn't have what it takes to kill anyone,' said she wanted justice for the killing 'There was a guy that was there, I noticed him,' Tanksley said from jail, as she recalled that a stranger had attempted to get into the backseat of her car asking for a ride. 'Lazarus came to the right side of the door, and then he opened it. Then pow! The gun went off' It was then that witnesses helped put her husband's body in the back of her car to drive him to hospital. Tanksley said that one true detail from the sheriff's office was that she had left him at the hospital and drove away because 'Lazarus was dead.' Tanksley claimed she drove back to the scene to gather evidence before heading to the home of her father, Andre Carstarphen, to tell him what happened. Carstarphen said that he 'immediately shut down' after Tanksley told him what happened. 'I can't; I don't want to hear it; I can't take this,' he told WKRG, noting that the news of his son-in-law's passing was too devastating for him to process. Carstarphen recalled that he knew immediately that his daughter would be accused when deputies knocked on his door. 'You're going to be locked up tonight, and you are going to be accused of murder,' he said. 'This man right here, that detective is going to say that you have done it.' Tanksley was adamant that she was telling the truth. 'Oh yeah, that's what happened,' she told WKRG. Detectives referred to the two as exes in court, but family members say they were married. Tanksley, however, had hinted on social media that the two were discussing divorce Tanksley said that she knew right away that her husband was dead and recalled that he was 'already shaking' and she could 'see his soul leaving his body' The couple have two young children, one being only a few months old She said she wanted justice for the killing and that she doesn't have 'what it takes to kill anyone let alone her husband' who is 'the love of her life.' The couple have two young children, one being only a few months old, WKRG reported. Detectives referred to the two as exes in court, but family members said they were married. Tanksley had hinted on social media that the two were discussing divorce. On January 3, her bond was set at $150,000 and she remains in custody. Tanksley is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on January 16. An Arizona tattoo artist has been slammed after inking a nine-year-old girl who asked for a portrait of Donald Trump on her neck. An artist at the Black Onyx Empire Tattoo shop in Yuma shared on his Instagram that the girl had traveled to Arizona with her parents to get the ink of the president-elect. But the artist, who shared video of the inking process, said he convinced her to do a 'more patriotic tattoo' instead - of a US flag on her arm, as first reported by Arizona's Family. 'Told her in a year if she still wanted the trump then to get it but to think on it,' the artist, who goes by cutzsosa, wrote on Instagram. 'Client came back one year later saying I'm 10 now can you touch up the red?"' 'She also changed her mind on the Trump portrait one year later,' the artist added. The girl apparently traveled to Arizona for the tattoo, as the state allows kids to ink themselves if they have parental permission. The artist said he even 'tried to scare' the girl's parents away by pricing the ink at $500 even though the tattoo was worth $80. Tattoo artist cutzsosa is seen working on a tattoo for a nine-year-old girl who traveled to Arizona for a portrait of Donald Trump on her neck The artist said he convinced the girl to ink the US flag on her arm instead of Trump on her neck The artist has been slammed online for giving the tattoo to the girl, even though she had her parents' consent 'But they jumped on that price instead. I tried,' the artist said. Video of the girl getting the tattoo shows her calming sitting as the artist works on the US flag on her arm. The story has sparked a debate online about whether children should be allowed to get tattoos - and if artists should decline their requests, even if it's not illegal. One YouTube comment read: 'Trump tattoo on the neck to a 9 year old? 'These are the same people crying over giving puberty blockers to kids. I say no to both.' Another said: 'Please no. As an artist, be the bigger person and dont do this to a 9 year old. Then call child services.' Ben Shaw with the Alliance of Professional Tattooists told Arizona's family that the state's law when it comes to inking children is 'frustrating.' 'It is one of the most frustrating things about our career field and in Arizona where it has no regulations,' he said. 'It can give us professionals a bad reputation. If you see a 10-year-old child with a professional tattoo and they say they got it at a tattoo shop, that degrades us as a whole.' All 50 states have statutory laws banning under 18s from getting tattoos. But some make an exception for children who get parental consent. Others, like New York and New Jersey, have a blanket ban on minors being inked even if they have received parental permission. Jewel thieves are being hunted by police after a 'terrifying' three-hour raid. The armed burglars made off with a 'considerable amount' of valuables - including diamond rings, necklaces, and a watch - after arriving and fleeing in a Land Rover. Thieves broke in through a window in the early hours of the morning and subjected the victim to a horrifying three-hour ordeal before fleeing. Detectives have issued pictures of the 4X4 car and some of the jewellery that was stolen in the break in as they try to trace the crooks. North Wales Police said: 'We are hoping to trace the vehicle in connection with an aggravated burglary in Llandudno. 'In the early hours of Sunday, November 3rd, a house on Abbey Road, Llandudno was targeted by burglars between 12.41am and 3.33am, where a quantity of jewellery was stolen. 'The items including diamond rings, two necklaces, a watch, a bracelet and costume jewellery are pictured below.' Detective Constable Sean Harrison added: 'This was a terrifying incident for the victim, and we are continuing to follow all lines of enquiry to ensure those responsible are caught. Police have launched a manhunt to find this Land Rover which is believed to be connected to an aggravated burglary in Llandudno Pictured are some of the items that were taken during the three-hour raid The armed burglars made off with a 'considerable amount' of valuables - including diamond rings (pictured), necklaces, and a watch 'We know at least two people approached the house at 12.41am and broke in through a window, where they stole a considerable amount of jewellery. 'They were seen leaving the house at 3.33am in the direction of Abbey Place. 'At 3.35am, CCTV footage shows the pictured vehicle, which appears to be a Land Rover, travelling past the victim's home. 'I am asking anyone who recognises this car, or anyone who thinks they might have seen it travelling in the area before or after the burglary, and has CCTV or dashcam footage, to contact us. 'I am also appealing to anybody who witnessed this incident, or noticed anything suspicious at the time, to get in touch.' Those with information are urged to call North Wales Police on 101, quoting reference number 24000933231, or independent charity Crimestoppers on 08000 555 111, where information can be left anonymously. Donald Trump unloaded on 'nasty guy' Jack Smith as his team of lawyers tries to stop the special counsel from releasing a damning report on his two criminal cases against him. Smith is trying to get clearance from Attorney General Merrick Garland to release a two-part volume into Trump's alleged misconduct related to his handling of classified documents and attempts to overthrow the 2020 election. Neither of Smith's cases against Trump reached trial and the president-elect has fiercely maintained his innocence during the 'political' prosecution. Trump's team is pleading in court that Garland halt the release of the report that they say just spews 'conspiracy theories' about the incoming president. The president-elect also made a series of personal jabs at Smith on Tuesday calling him 'mean and nasty' and accusing him of executing people. 'They brought this moron out of The Hague. He's a mean guy. He's a mean, nasty guy,' Trump said, referring to Smith's prior assignment prosecuting war crimes at the Hague. Trump tore into the special counsel during an hour-long press conference at Mar-a-Lago where he also refused to rule out military force to obtain Greenland and regain control of the Panama Canal. '[Smith's] picture was perfect, because you look at his picture, you say that's a bad guy with his robe his purple robe and he executes people. He shouldn't be allowed to execute people, because he'll execute everybody. He's a nutjob. But we won all of those cases with him.' He went on praise 'brilliant' Judge Aileen Cannon in Florida who ruled that Smith's special counsel appointment was unlawful last year. 'They brought this moron out of The Hague. He's a mean guy,' Trump said of special counsel Jack Smith, as his lawyers tried to block Smith from releasing a report on the cases he brought against Trump Smith himself asked that the January 6 case against Trump be withdrawn after he defeated Kamala Harris in the election. Prosecutors also stood down in the classified documents case, where they were appealing a district judge's order to dismiss the case. 'And some judges and prosecutors say, look, the only way I'm going to get these people off my back is to give victory to them,' said Trump. 'They're playing the ref. I think it's illegal what they do ... It's worse than talking to a judge. But the judge in Florida, Judge Cannon, was brilliant and tough, and she didn't stand for it. And I don't know her and never met her until the case and I don't believe I said even one word to her,' Trump said. The Netherlands, where Smith prosecuted war crimes cases at the Hague, does not have the death penalty. He did get a death penalty conviction for a cop killer in New York. Trump's comments came as there was more courtroom drama in the final days before Donald Trump is sworn in as president, with Trump's lawyers racing to try to get a judge to prevent Jack Smith from releasing a two-volume report on his historic charging decisions. Those cases have been upended, but material in the special counsel's report could damage the incoming administration just as it is trying to get underway after what Trump's lawyers call a 'national mandate from the voters.' Smith plans to hand the report to AG Merrick Garland Tuesday afternoon with a potential release as early as Friday, just days before Trump takes the Oath of Office and assumes control over the Justice Department whose prosecutors brought criminal charges against him. Trump lawyers John Lauro and Todd Blanche who Trump is nominating to a top DOJ role claim in a blistering letter to Garland that the draft report is a 'politically-motivated attack.' They call it the product of a 'bad-faith crusade', and claim Smith lacks the authority to produce it, and that it 'violates fundamental norms regarding the presumption of innocence,' including toward third parties charged alongside Trump. Trump brought up Smith's purple robe, which he wore as part of the uniform prosecuting war crimes in the Hague They say the 'release of any confidential report prepared by this out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor would be nothing more than a lawless political stunt, designed to politically harm President Trump and justify the huge sums of taxpayer money Smith unconstitutionally spent on his failed and dismissed cases.' The legal cases against Trump imploded after he won the presidential election, in part due to longstanding DOJ guidelines against charging the president while in office. Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the classified documents case against Trump, accepting his lawyers' argument that Smith's appointment wasn't constitutional. That decision was on appeal when Trump won the election in November. FILE - Special counsel Jack Smith speaks to the media about an indictment of former President Donald Trump, Aug. 1, 2023, at an office of the Department of Justice in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) The release of a major final report by a special counsel can be an explosive event. Special Counsel Robert Hur's final report on the Hunter Biden saga last spring contained damaging language calling President Joe Biden an 'elderly man with a poor memory' that reverberated through the campaign. Trump's team says a 'one-sided, improper report' would violate the presidential immunity principles established by the Supreme Court. They were able to view the draft report in D.C., and say its first volume 'asserts, without any jury determination, that President Trump and others 'engaged in an unprecedented criminal effort,' was 'the head of the criminal conspiracies,' and harbored a 'criminal design.' They cite page 68 and 69 of the still unseen draft report, with other citations running through page 108. The second volume 'asserts that Trump 'violated multiple federal criminals laws,' with citations up to page 121 suggestion a lengthy report of beyond 200 pages. The letter faults Smith for filing 'gratuitous speaking indictments,' holding a 'lawless press conference,' and filing 'extremely serious, and entirely false, allegations' against Trump in the January 6 case and the classified documents case. At the same time, Trump co-defendants in the documents case, Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveira, have asked Judge Cannon to block Garland from releasing the report, arguing it would prevent them from getting a fair trial. Their obstruction cases continue even after Smith withdrew the government's appeal to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. Smith's team asked a judge to set aside the January 6 case, saying 'This outcome is not based on the merits or strength of the case against the defendant' One of the volumes in Smith's report relates to Trump's possession of national security documents to Mar-a-Lago Trump codefendants are asking Judge Aileen Cannon to block the release of the report Trump's lawyers are trying to shut down the release of a two-volume report by Special Counsel Jack Smith in the final days before he takes office The lawyers blast Smith and his team 'as the inauguration approaches' of efforts to put out a report that is 'not a legitimate use of taxpayer funds,' and accuse him of 'lawfare' a phrase invoked by Trump himself. They accuse him of 'unlawfully' encroaching on the 'Executive authority of the incoming Administration of President Trump to resolve the issues surrounding Smith's Office in accordance with President Trump's commanding national mandate from the voters.' Smith's team says the report could be released as soon as Friday. The report, offered under the DOJ regulations governing special counsel probes, is expected to describe prosecutors' charging decisions in the case that resulted in Trump being indicted for taking a trove of national security documents to Mar-a-Lago. They also include the decision to charge Trump with heading a conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. Smith brought a superseding indictment in the January 6th case that narrowed the case after the Supreme Court issued issued its summer decision giving presidents presidential immunity from prosecution for official acts while in office. Trump's team wants the AG to block the report or leave the decision to Trump's AG. Trump has said he will nominate longtime loyalist former Florida AG Pam Bondi to the post. Smith's team filed their own filing where they spelled out a plan to submit their report to Garland Monday afternoon, and that the portion dealing with the classified documents case before Judge Cannon won't be made public before 10 am on Friday. Weighing in Tuesday was former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), former vice of the House January 6 committee. She accused Trump of 'yet again to hide evidence and suppress the truth. The Justice Department has obtained testimony and evidence from dozens of Trump's former advisors and Vice President Pence showing the danger Trump poses. Now Trump is already doing what despots do he is trying to conceal the truth and threatening to jail those who investigated him.' 'AG Garland now has a duty to release the Justice Department Report and prevent its evidence from being destroyed. The truth must prevail. The framers of our Constitution knew the lessons of history that people led by men without character can quickly lose their freedom,' she posted on X. She also said Rep. Barry Loudermilk spread 'malicious lies' about the House January 6 Committee, in reference to his report saying numerous laws were 'likely broken' and calling for an FBI probe of alleged 'criminal witness tampering.' A police officer who worked for the armed protection force at a nuclear testing facility in Scotland has won an employment tribunal case against the Ministry of Defence after a judge ruled she suffered discrimination because of a disability. Caroline Watson, a 55-year-old firearms officer who suffers with May-Thurner syndrome, a condition affecting blood vessels in the legs that can cause deep vein thrombosis, was denied requested adjustments to her shift pattern and hours, the tribunal heard. A judge ruled at the hearing in Aberdeen that the condition put Watson at a substantial disadvantage when compared with colleagues working at the Vulcan Naval Reactor Test Establishment on the north coast of Scotland. The standard shift pattern required employees to work for eight consecutive days, with six 12-hour shifts bookended by two eight-hour days. Watson said the challenging schedule aggravated the symptoms of her rare condition, which occurs when the right iliac artery, which conveys blood to the right leg, compresses the left iliac vein, which carries blood from the left leg towards the heart. Aside from causing pain and swelling, the disease increases the risk of blood clot formation. Faced by a schedule that required her to be on patrol for prolonged periods and carry heavy equipment, Watson sought a comfortable compromise that would have seen her work three straight 12-hour shifts followed by four days off to rest and recuperate. When her proposal was rejected by senior staff, Watson said she had no choice but to retire on the grounds of ill health before seeking redress from the Ministry of Defence Police at an employment tribunal. She is now in line for a payout that could take into account factors including loss of past and future earnings, injury to feelings and loss of pension. The Vulcan Naval Reactor Test Establishment in Dounreay, where Caroline Watson, a 55-year-old firearms officer who suffers with May-Thurner syndrome, worked until April 2022 Watson has won an employment tribunal against the Ministry of Defence after a judge ruled she suffered discrimination on the basis of her disability, which made 12-hour shifts difficult The standard shift pattern at Vulcan required employees to work for eight consecutive days, with six 12-hour shifts bookended by two eight-hour days The tribunal heard that PC Watson started her police career in 1997 before joining the Ministry of Defence as a police constable in October 2005. Following various postings, she began work at the Vulcan Naval Reactor Test Establishment in 2015, where her role involved carrying out armed patrols of the site's perimeter. The facility, which in its most recent incarnation was used for testing new designs of nuclear submarine pressurised water reactors, was shut down in July 2015, although post-operational work and guarding continued. In 2020, Watson left work with stress and anxiety for seven months after relations with her boss, Inspector Vincent Reid, became strained. Watson returned to work in January 2021, when she asked for a change to her working pattern and hours. Watson said that although the role required most of your time on your feet, the real issue was doing this for eight shifts in a row. 'I think three x 12 hour shifts would be a comfortable compromise and reasonable adjustment, allowing me four days off to rest and recuperate, alleviating these symptoms ready to commence another three shifts,' said Watson. Reid, who was no longer Watsons line manager, wrote to a superintendent with the force and said the application cannot be approved. He said if would be almost impossible to authorise without a major cost and detrimental impact on other officers. The superintendent asked Reid if it would be possible to offer Watson a shift pattern of four days on and four off, adding: 'Just something to look at as we may get criticised for eight days if this goes to appeal/ET [employment tribunal].' Watson's application was rejected in April 2021 on the basis of cost, logistical challenges, an inability to recruit additional staff and a detrimental effect on the ability to meet customer demand. Watson returned to a normal rota before retiring on grounds of ill health in April 2022. 'She was upset and depressed at the premature ending of her career and the failure to continue dialogue with her over possible adjustments to the shift pattern,' said Judge James Hendry. 'It was apparent that [PC Watson] was expected to be fit enough to work this physically taxing rota. 'We found that [she] was physically unable to carry out eight days of 12-hour shifts in a row as she was required to.' A remedy hearing to decide compensation will be held at a later date. MBABANE The Minister for Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, is disheartened and concerned. Nxumalo is disappointed and concerned by the delay in the submissions of free primary education (FPE) grant requests by schools. The minister said this when sought to establish if everything was in order with regard to the opening of schools. Nxumalo said he was disheartened as only 53 schools had submitted claims for the FPE grant without any glitches. He said by yesterday, only 7 per cent of the schools claims were ready to be paid, while many had been returned back to the schools for the head teachers to correct improperly compiled information. Incompetence This pains me because when things go haywire, the ministry is then blamed for incompetence. I plead with head teachers to submit adequately-filled claims and on time so that we do not have challenges when schools open for 2025, said Nxumalo. He said the ministry had from October 2024 sent out a call to head teachers to submit the claims. Nxumalo said as things stand, he would ensure that those who have already submitted their claims are paid early. It is worth noting that there are 601 primary schools, with 161 being located in the Hhohho Region, while 132 are in the Lubombo Region. In the Manzini Region, there are 168 primary schools, while there are 140 in the Shiselweni Region. Meanwhile, there are 277 high schools in total in the country, with 72 located in the Hhohho Region, while 66 are in the Lubombo Region. There are also 74 high schools in the Manzini Region, while there are 65 in the Shiselweni Region. This brings the number of schools in the country to 878. On the other hand, the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Thuli Dladla, said applications for orphaned and vulnerable childrens (OVCs) grants were being submitted by head teachers. However, she said there were challenges as the head teachers were at instances submitting names of pupils which were not corresponding with the names of the pupils. Dladla did admit that there would be late submissions as the head teachers were also still admitting pupils into non-completing classes. This, he said, delayed the vetting and submission of the claims to the Treasury Department under the Ministry of Finance. Dladla said some of the schools will be receiving their money in the upcoming days. Submitted These schools, she said, were those that had submitted properly filled OVC grant claims. However, the DPM did not have the exact number of the schools as she was on an assignment outside the office. Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Swaziland Association of Schools Administrators (SASA) Gcina Thusi said in his understanding, head teachers started submitting the FPE grants claims in November 2024. However, in December, we were informed that the claims were being returned to schools as they were advised to use a government portal to check each pupils personal identity number (PIN). This is when schools are closed and it is hard to locate them or their guardians, Thusi said. He admitted that schools that had their FPE claims returned were delayed to return them properly filled to the ministry as they were still seeking to locate either their guardians or the learners. In such an instance, Thusi said head teachers were compelled to delete all the pupils whose PIN did not match their names in the government portal and apply later. However, this, he said, frustrated the process. Another challenge he raised was that the head teachers needed properly functioning computers with access to Wi -Fi. This, he said, was not a reality for all schools and it also frustrated the process. Thusi also supposed that some head teachers were facing challenges in locating the chairpersons of the school committees as it was the festive season. He said the chairpersons were needed to approve the list when they had completed verifying that each learners name matched their PIN. Despite the aforementioned challenges, Thusi encouraged his counterparts to attend to the FPE grant lists and those for the OVCs to ensure that they hit the ground running when schools open for the 2025 calendar. Furthermore, Eswatini Principals Association (EPA) Secretary General (SG) Mduduzi Masilela said head teachers registered with his entity had submitted the claims. Masilela said: If there is anything head teachers are most concerned about, it is filing the FPE claims so that they are paid on time. They know the frustration any delays bring! The SG said the challenge with some of the claims could be that they were being returned to schools for correcting errors, which would then affect the progress of the submissions. He was certain that EPA members had submitted claims and they were yet to receive queries from the ministry. Iran's 'swelling tide of executions' has seen the Islamic Republic put more than 900 inmates to death, a chilling report has found. Around 40 people were killed in a single barbaric week in December, according to United Nations rights chief Volker Turk. 'It is deeply disturbing that yet again we see an increase in the number of people subjected to the death penalty in Iran year-on-year,' Turk said, adding that at least 901 people were reportedly executed in 2024. That compares to at least 853 people executed in the country in 2023. 'It is high time Iran stemmed this ever-swelling tide of executions,' Turk said in a statement as activists have voiced alarm over the surge in hangings in the Islamic Republic. Iran uses capital punishment for major crimes including murder, drug trafficking, rape and sexual assault. The Islamic republic executes more people per year than any other nation except China, for which no reliable figures are available, according to human rights groups including Amnesty International. They accuse the authorities under supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of using capital punishment as a tool to instill fear throughout society, particularly in the wake of 2022-2023 nationwide protests. The Islamic Republic put more than 900 inmates to death. Pictured: Execution ceremony in Nowshahr, Iran, 2014 The country uses capital punishment to discipline those convicted of certain crimes, including murder, theft, adultery and homosexuality Around 40 people were killed in a single barbaric week in December, according to United Nations rights chief Volker Turk The UN rights office said that most of last year's executions were for drug-related offences but it said 'dissidents and people connected to the 2022 protests were also executed'. 'There was also a rise in the number of women executed.' IHR said in a report on Monday that at least 31 women had been executed in Iran in 2024. Iran does not publish official data on executions, but UN rights office spokeswoman Liz Throssell told reporters that the team had gathered figures from a range of different reliable rights organisations that monitor the situation, including HRANA, Hengaw and the Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR). 'We are confident of the number,' she said. The highest number of executions in Iran in recent decades was recorded in 2015, when at least 972 people were put to death. After that, the numbers decreased following a reform of Iran's anti-narcotics law in 2017, but Throssell warned that 'since 2022 the numbers have risen sharply'. Amnesty International aaccuse the authorities under supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of using capital punishment as a tool to instil fear throughout society A view of the entrance of Evin prison in Tehran, Iran October 17, 2022 UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk speaks via video call during a Security Council meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York, New York, USA, 03 January 2025 'Clearly the number for 2024 is alarmingly, shockingly high.' Turk stressed that his office opposed 'the death penalty under all circumstances'. 'It is incompatible with the fundamental right to life and raises the unacceptable risk of executing innocent people,' he said. 'And, to be clear, it can never be imposed for conduct that is protected under international human rights law.' The UN rights chief urged the Iranian authorities to halt all further executions, and to place a moratorium on the use of the death penalty with a view to ultimately abolishing it. Some 170 states have either abolished the death penalty or imposed a moratorium on its use. Two British men have been missing in Italy for nearly a week after a hike in the mountains. Aziz Ziriat, 36, and his friend Samuel Harris, 35, both from London, were hiking in the Dolomites mountains in northeastern Italy on January 1, but they haven't been seen or heard from since. Ziriat, who works for Crystal Palace's foundation Palace for Life, and Harris missed their return flight to Britain on January 6. An urgent appeal to find the friends has been launched by family and friends. Both sent home messages from the Trentino region until midday on January 1, but they failed to board their return flight. Their last known location is believed to be near a hut called Casina Dosson which is near the town Tione Di Trento, near Riva del Garda, on Lake Garda. Crystal Palace FC also asked for help to locate their employee and Harris and shared a map with routes the two hikers could have taken. 'We are appealing for anyone familiar with the area, who can provide assistance or information, to get in touch,' the club said in a statement today. The club further posted descriptions of the Ziriat and Harris, including a picture of the clothes Harris is believed to have been wearing. Aziz Ziriat (pictured), 36, and Sam Harris, 35, were hiking in the Dolomites mountains in northeastern Italy on January 1, but they haven't been seen or heard from since Ziriat, who works for Crystal Palace's foundation Palace for Life, and Harris (pictured) missed their return flight to Britain yesterday The club also shared descriptions of the Ziriat and Harris, including a picture of the clothes Harris is believed to have been wearing Your browser does not support iframes. Their last known location is believed to be near a hut called Casina Dosson which is near the town Tione Di Trento, near Rival Del Garda, on Lake Garda. They were possibly following the route shown in the image below. pic.twitter.com/uQRueTrZtY Palace for Life (@PalaceForLife) January 7, 2025 Ziriat, who is described as being 6'3, was a student at the University of Brighton, while Harris, who is 5'11, went to Oxford Brookes. Both attended Teddington School in Teddington in southwest London. Crystal Palace has asked fans to share pictures and information of the two missing Britons on social media. Mustafa Suleyman, the chief executive of Microsoft's AI division, also posted an appeal to find Ziriat and Harris on LinkedIn: 'I urgently need your help! Two of my friends have gone missing whilst hiking in the Dolomites. 'We know they were near Casina Dosson Tione Di Trento, near Riva del Garda, on Lake Garda.' Friends of the two missing Britons and Ziriat's girlfriend are flying to the region from London tonight to help with the search. Alpine Rescue, Guardia di Finanza Rescue, Carabinieri and the local fire brigade are involved in the search for Ziriat and Harris, but recent snowfall was making it difficult for teams to reach the area. Local authorities reportedly said that it was unusual for hikers to go missing in the Dolomites in January. If anyone has any information or knows the area and can help, please dial 999 and reference CAD 0197/07 Jan25. A Georgia judge who took his own life inside his courtroom sent a final chilling email to the state's Governor before he died. Stephen Yekel was found dead inside Effingham County Court last week, on what should have been his last day on the bench. Yekel, 74, had recently lost a bid for re-election and speculation has swirled around whether this has played a role in the tragedy. Now it has emerged that Yekel sent Governor Brian Kemp a message before he killed himself which read: 'Now they will have to appoint someone'. The cryptic communication was obtained by The Georgia Virtue journalist Jessica Szilagyi, who said it referenced Yekel's attempt to overthrow the election result. The judge's legal assistant Charlene Kessler then accused Szilagyi of hacking the court's emails to obtain the message, however Szilagyi insists she obtained the message through legal, investigative means. A police report filed following Kessler's claims shows that Yekel's email to Kemp was sent at around 2.18am, indicating he was likely still alive at that time on December 31. Effingham County Sheriff's Office said it is investigating Kessler's claims, but no charges have been filed against Szilagyi. Georgia judge Stephen Yekel who took his own life inside his courtroom sent a final chilling email to the state's Governor before he died Yekel sent Governor Brian Kemp (right) a message before he killed himself which read: 'Now they will have to appoint someone' Yekel had previously sent Governor Kemp a resignation letter in which he lamented the low turnout during his unsuccessful re-election bid. The judge lost his position following the election in June to Judge Melissa Calhoun who was slated to take over. In the event Yekel resigned, a new judge would be appointed for a two year term as opposed to the four years given to an elected official. In his letter, Yekel stated that the position is, 'too important to be decided by only 6% of eligible voters'. But Kemp rejected the resignation request, asserting that he wished to maintain, 'respect for the will of the people of Effingham County.' 'While we are unable to provide comment on an open investigation, Judge Yekels family and loved ones are in all of our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,' Kemp's office previously told WTOC. Judge Calhoun, who was sworn in December 19, 2024, has filled Judge Yekel's seat and will serve a full four-year term, Effingham County confirmed. Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie said Yekel's body was discovered around 10am on New Year's Eve. The father-of-four was a former assistant district attorney in Chatham County and practicing lawyer with more than 45 years of experience. Pictured: Yekel (center) with his sons (L-R) Sean, Brett, Steve and Blake and Governor Brian Kemp Judge Melissa Calhoun will replaced Yekel for a four year term after she won a run-off election in June He said he understood Yekel had sent a note to the Governor's office regarding the resignation, but did not disclose its contents. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is also probing the horrific incident. Yekel was appointed to the state court in 2022. Prior to that he was a former assistant district attorney in Chatham County and practicing lawyer with more than 45 years of experience. The father-of-four also previously held roles as a special agent with the state's Alcohol & Tobacco Tax Unit and the Cobb County District Attorney's Office. His daughter Ashleigh Yekel said that the family will be holding a visitation at a funeral home in Yekel's hometown of Rincon on Saturday. 'We are humbled by the outpouring of love and support,' Ashleigh said. 'We only ask you to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate the unknown.' The family is requesting donations to suicide prevention charities in lieu of flowers. Yekel's half brother Michael Jackson said his sibling's death had come as a 'real shock'. Yekel was found dead inside Effingham County Court last week, on what should have been his last day on the bench. He had recently lost a re-election bid Yekel was discovered inside the Effingham County state court room on New Year's Eve 'I'm really just in shock, I've never seen him shaken before,' Jackson told DailyMail.com. 'He was a very stoic man all his life so it seems very out of character. I can't understand the where part of it all, why did he choose to do it there? It seems creepy. 'He was a very talented lawyer and really respected in the community so I just don't understand it. A lot of people will be feeling his loss. 'As an attorney he was a real man of the people and fought for the underdog.' Jackson, from Atlanta, said he and Yekel had different fathers but the same mom. He remembered watching his older brother grow up and go off to college. 'He passed the bar and never looked back,' Jackson added. Nightlife tsar Sacha Lord has warned that the 'writing is already on the wall' for many hospitality businesses as pubs and bars desperately fight to survive through Labour's tax bomb budget. Just seven days into 2025, Manchester's Night Time Economy adviser voiced major concerns after seeing a 'raft of closures' already this year. Mr Lord fears that more businesses will shut down at the start of this year than they did during Covid. The hospitality sector saw the biggest economic declines of all sectors during the pandemic. In another hammer blow to recovering businesses, the rate employers pay in National Insurance will rise from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent in April and the threshold at which they start paying the tax on salaries will be reduced from 9,100 to 5,000. The minimum wage, known officially as the National Living Wage, will also rise in April, with hourly rates for over-21s to go up by 6.7 per cent from 11.44 to 12.21 an hour. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said she had to introduce the tax hike in a raft of changes to generate 25billion for public services. Fearing the worst, Mr Lord wrote on X this morning: 'It's only 7th Jan and I'm already seeing a raft of Hospitality closures this morning. I'm sadly predicting we will see more at the start of this year, than we did during Covid. Nightlife tsar Sacha Lord (pictured) fears that more businesses will shut down at the start of this year than they did during Covid Just seven days into 2025, Manchester's Night Time Economy adviser voiced major concerns after seeing a 'raft of closures' already this year 'The unexpected extra tax burden of an increase in NI and Business Rates increase, will be the straw that broke the camels back. 'Many Govt meeting are taking place this month, but sadly the writings already on the wall for many.' Simon Delaney, who has owned The Firbank Pub and Kitchen, in Wythenshawe, Manchester, for 30 years, echoed Mr Lord's fears. He told MailOnline today: 'I saw the tweet earlier. It's predicted from everybody in our industry. 'It's already a worrying sign, January, February, March, the first quarter of the year. 'But it's an even bigger worrier what's coming with the extra outlays we've got with the minimum wage going up, all the extra costs, the business relief dropping off. 'It just makes it even more difficult to make it work. It's becoming less doable, it's already difficult for some successful businesses who are doing everything right but it's not profitable at the end.' Mr Lord's post was also met with a number of comments, including from The Scottish Hospitality Group who wrote: 'It is a trend which unfortunately we will see more of across the year. Simon Delaney (pictured), who has owned The Firbank Pub and Kitchen, in Wythenshawe, Manchester, for 30 years, echoed Mr Lord's fears It comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves (pictured) delivered her first budget in October following Labour's election victory 'Many decided to take Christmas & NY and then call time. The UK budget have been a nail in the coffin that the sector didn't need during its slow recovery.' The nightlife tsar replied: 'Totally agree.' Another user wrote: '3 months time will be a bloodbath.' Mr Lord replied: 'You're right Steveespecially when the Vat bills due.' It comes after Ms Reeves delivered her first budget in October following Labour's election victory. The chancellor laid out how she would raise 40billion a year in extra taxes to address the 'black hole' in the public finances left by the Tories. In the lead up to the budget, there has been calls for an extension to business rates support, with UKHospitality warning the industry faced an additional rates bill of 914million if the relief ended, as planned, on March 31 2025. The Chancellor confirmed the support would be extended but at a lower rate. The business rate discount is being lowered from 75 per cent to 50 per cent, sparking anger from industry bosses. Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said at the time: 'This Budget is the latest blow for hospitality businesses. Rising taxes, increasing costs and fragile consumer confidence risk bringing growth to a grinding halt. 'In the short-term, the tsunami of employment costs coming in April will ultimately do more to hamper growth than incentivise it. Increases to employer NICs and wages will make it harder for businesses to support employment and invest in their businesses. 'Avoiding the business rates cliff-edge next April was critical and it was important that some relief has been extended. However, the reduced level of 40 per cent is another cost that businesses have to deal with. For those small- and medium-sized operators, their rates bills will still go up in April. 'All of this means that 2025 will be a painful for hospitality, with a increased annual tax bill of 3bn for the sector.' The head of McDonald's faced accusations that the burger chain had become a 'predators' paradise' today as it was hit by fresh allegations of sexual abuse of staff. UK and Ireland chief executive Alistair Macrow was quizzed by MPs as a new wave of allegations that teenage staff were offered extra hours in exchange for sex, and others were groped by managers. Hundreds of staff have now made various complaints about the fast chain, which has been in the spotlight over working practices since last year. Mr Macrow faced the Commons Business and Trade Committee this afternoon, hours after more current and former employees came forward and spoke to the BBC. More than 700 people who were aged 19 or younger when working under the Golden Arches have instructed law firm Leigh Day to take legal action on their behalf. But the CEO, while branding the alleged abuse 'abhorrent', insisted that changes made last year by the firm were 'working'. However committee chairman Liam Byrne said: We now have 160 cases of abuse reported to the BBC at McDonald's. 'We have 300 cases that have been reported to the Equalities Watchdog. We have 700 people, former employees of McDonalds, taking legal action against you. 'Has McDonald's basically become a predators' paradise?' UK chief executive Alistair Macrow was quizzed by MPs as a new wave of allegations that teenage staff were offered extra hours in exchange for sex, and others were groped by managers. Hundreds of staff have now made various complaints about the fast chain, which has been in the spotlight over working practices since last year. Ilana Cole, 19, alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed Mr Macrow replied: 'Those allegations described are abhorrent, unacceptable and there is no place for them in McDonald's. 'There cannot be any room in our business for people who behave in that manner. 'The measures that are put in place mean that we are able to offer a secure, safe workplace where people are respected and feel included. 'I hear from our people that it is working.' He added that he was 'angry' that 'bad-minded people' were acting inappropriately across the fast-food chain, but said any allegations of misconduct were 'isolated incidents'. The worker, named Claire, was employed on a zero-hours contract and relied on picking up shifts to increase her hours and earn money. She described feeling 'dependent' on her managers and said: 'You don't expect that to happen. It was totally inappropriate.' Other employees as young as 16 reported being bullied and yelled at, with a 20-year-old woman telling how a manager sent her topless pictures. Another woman, who quit her job at a West Midlands branch at the end of 2023, told the BBC managers inappropriately touched her and customers harassed her. She claims that when she reported the abuse, she was told to 'suck it up'. Meanwhile Matt quit his Midlands job in 2024 after being bullied and said he witnessed racist behaviour by managers. He said he was harassed for having a learning disability and an eye condition, and claimed other colleagues were 'scared' to go to work. 'It was stuff you noticed, managers and staff being racist to other staff. Managers trying to touch other staff up,' he said. Scotland employee Alan, 19, added he had been subjected to 'degrading' homophobic abuse which involved colleagues using offensive homophobic slurs, both to his face and behind his back. He added he was told it was 'just banter' when he brought up his concerns, and it 'seems like McDonald's don't care'. Liam Byrne, head of the Business Committee, said the situation was 'appalling' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe Other employees previously told MailOnline they had been groped, given sexual nicknames such as 'McBike' and were rated on their appearance at work on scoreboards. It was revealed staff members would refer to employees with learning disabilities as 're****s', young women were routinely groped and one store saw managers have a 'scoreboard' for 'sexual conquests'. Ilana Cole, 19, told MailOnline she began working at the chain when she was 16 and was transferred from one branch in Berkshire to another. Upon starting her new role underwent an interview with a manager. 'He started telling me about the differences between this branch and my last branch and said 'Here we're a lot busier, it's like you're getting raped up the a** everyday',' she told MailOnline. 'I was completely shocked that he had just said that but being 16 and naive, I continued to accept the job offer.' When she started working at the restaurant, she claimed matters only got worse. She alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed. She claimed managers discriminated against staff with disabilities and, in her opinion, treating some crew differently because of their nationality. She said the manager 'would get really close behind the younger girls almost pressed right against their back, constantly getting close to the girls and deliberately brushing his hand against their waist or bum, which he did to me too.' At other points, she spoke to other unhappy staff members, including a man from Romania who she claimed only ever worked on the 'fries station' and 'was completely covered in burns and scars that were never reported'. Ms Cole believes he was treated differently because of his nationality. She added: 'I never complained about the behaviour as all of the managers were best friends with each other, so a complaint wouldn't get very far.' Liam Byrne, chair of the Business Select Committee, told the BBC the situation was 'appalling'. 'There is a clear pattern of abuse here that suggests that McDonald's has become a hotbed of harassment and it's incredibly serious,' he said. 'And when the boss of McDonald's came before us last year he promised that he would root out this problem and it's quite clear that he's failed.' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe. They continued: 'Our relentless focus on eliminating all forms of harassment at McDonald's is led by a newly created team and informed by the experience and guidance of external experts. Working at speed they have already rolled-out company-wide programmes to improve safeguarding, drive awareness and enhance training. 'We have also recruited our first Head of Safeguarding and in addition to the four speak up channels already available, and have introduced a new, easy to use, digital speak-up channel, Red Flags.' They added: 'Additionally, the Investigations Handling Unit, led by its newly appointed Director and drawing on independent legal experts, is dedicated to rooting out any behaviour that falls below the high standards we demand of everyone at McDonald's. 'McDonald's agreement with the EHRC was signed in early 2023, with the intention that it continues to evolve to ensure the robust measures we have in place are aligned with any updated guidance. 'We are confident that we are taking significant and important steps to tackle the unacceptable behaviours facing every organisation.' Greenland is not for sale, insists Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Donald Trump Jr. landed in chilly, arctic island territory on Tuesday morning for a surprise trip amid his father's latest threats to purchase it from Denmark. But Frederiksen said on Tuesday that Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede 'has been very, very clear' that they don't intend to become part of the U.S. 'There is a lot of support among the people of Greenland that Greenland is not for sale and will not be in the future either,' Frederiksen insisted. While multiple people said Don Jr.'s trip to Greenland is 'personal' and not political, the president-elect noted how his son was joined by his 'representatives.' Trump also made it clear that his son's trip is intended to further his goal of the U.S. purchasing Greenland. But the chairman of one of the largest political parties in Greenland denied a meeting with Don Jr. and reiterated that Greenland is not up for grabs. Siumut party leader Erik Jensen told the press: 'I can confirm that I have not planned to meet with him. I say it again that Greenland is not for sale and never will be.' 'Everyone is welcome to visit our country, including Trump,' he added. 'When the future president's son, who is also his own advisor, shows interest in our country, it means that Greenland is serious.' Don Jr. posted multiple videos and photos from Greenland on Tuesday morning. Donald Trump Jr. landed in Greenland on Tuesday for a trip those close with him insist is only personal in nature But President-elect Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday a post that suggests the trip is political by noting his 'representatives' went to Greenland with his eldest son James Blair joins him on the visit to Greenland. Blair is incoming as deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs for Trump's second presidential term. He was the 2024 campaign's political director and oversaw a ground game seeking to reach low-propensity voters. Also on the trip are conservative Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and Sergio Gor, with whom Don Jr. co-owns Winning Team Publishing. And Trump made it clear on his social media site that the trip is meant to move forward his intentions to have the U.S. buy Greenland in his second term. 'Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday. 'The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE!' 'This is a deal that must happen,' he insisted. 'MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' During lunch with community members in Nuuk, Greenland, Don Jr. put his father on speakerphone so he could have a quick word with the locals. Sources told DailyMail.com ahead of the trip that Don planned to shoot video and podcasting content and insisted he is not meeting with any government officials or political figures. Some reports suggested the president-elect's oldest son was visiting at the request of Jensen, who is Greenland's minister of finance and supports the independence of Greenland. Jensen now denies he intends to meet with Don. Don Jr. posted images of himself and Charlie Kirk and Sergio Gor in front of the statue of Hans Egede, the Danish-Norwegian missionary who led mission efforts in Greenland during the late 1700s. Don Jr. also posted an image of the runway staff at the airport in Greenland Papua New Guinea has been rocked by 'horrific acts of cannibalism' with a bow and arrow-wielding gang seen posing with hacked off body parts. In grisly photos published Monday on the front page of the nation's largest newspaper, the Papua New Guinea Post-Courier, a group of machete-wielding men dangle what appears to be a severed human foot. 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, while others around him smile and point to the chopped-off limb. Papua New Guinea's Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili said he was deeply troubled by the 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.' In the video which has gone viral on social media, several men armed with bows and arrows are seen brandishing parts of severed bodies, the newspaper said. The Courier also reported that police are set to fly into the area to investigate the killing of seven people over the weekend amid claims from one local that 'this is our meat, we will cook and eat it'. Published on the front page of the Papua New Guinea Post-Courier on Monday were images of machete-wielding men dangling a severed foot One man can be seen making a licking gesture as the group pose with the limb Smoke can be seen billowing from the Goilala district in the country's jungle-clad interior Your browser does not support iframes. 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 country's 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. 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. 'I've met him on four occasions, until today, and on every occasion he's always had warm regards for Papua New Guinea,' Marape said. 'Never in those moments (has) he spoke of PNG as cannibals,' he added. Donald Trump's latest effort to beat the clock and have his hush money case thrown out failed on Tuesday, when an appeals court judge rejected his request to have Friday's sentencing delayed. It was the latest setback to the president-elect after the judge in the case, Juan Merchan, ruled 24 hours earlier that the sentencing should go ahead as planned. In response, Trump's lawyers took their argument to the New York court of appeals on Tuesday morning asking for the case to be dismissed. It relied on a recent Supreme Court decision that afford presidents some immunity. '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,' they write. In so doing, they extended their argument that Trump has immunity to the transition period between winning the election and the moment he is sworn in on January 20. Associate Justice Ellen Gesmer of the Appellate Division held an emergency hearing on Tuesday to test that claim. Half an hour after it ended, she issued a one-line ruling: 'After consideration of the papers submitted and the extensive oral argument, (Trump's) application for an interim stay is denied.' A jury in May found Trump guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records to hide a $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet Stormy Daniels in January 2024, weeks before she gave evidence at Trump's trial The president-elect has maintained throughout the case that he is the victim of a political witch hunt. A New York jury in April found the former president guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records for trying to hide a $130,000 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. For the six weeks of his trial, he moved his election campaign for Manhattan. Supporters gathered outside the criminal courthouse everyday, and political allies, members of Congress, and aides joined him in the courtroom in a show of strength. His subsequent reelection dealt Judge Juan Merchan a conundrum, as he tried to balance meting out punishment with the constitutional difficulty of locking up a president. On Monday, Trump's lawyers asked him in a 17-page ruling to delay sentencing this week pending an appeal. 'Presidential immunity violations cannot be ignored in favor of a rushed pre-inauguration sentencing,' his lawyers wrote. Merchan responded by saying he would press ahead with sentencing and that their arguments were mostly 'a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past.' He has previously said he will not send Trump to prison, opting instead for a conditional discharge. Trump's lawyers lodged a 500-page appeal on Tuesday morning Justice Juan Merchan on Monday denied the incoming president's motion to delay the case That means Trump will remain a convicted felon, but without having even a fine or probation when he is sworn in as president 10 days later on January 20. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung said after Monday's ruling: 'Today, President Trump's legal team moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.'s Witch Hunt. 'The Supreme Court's historic decision on Immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed.' Since the verdict, Trump's lawyers have made two unsuccessful attempts to have the case tossed. In their latest, 500-page submission, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, said: 'Justice is without authority under the law to proceed to sentencing while President Trump exercises his federal constitutional right to challenge these rulings.' Both lawyers are due to take up positions in the new Trump administration. Blanche is nominated to become deputy U.S. attorney general, while Bove is lined up to be principal associate deputy attorney general, in another sign of the way Trump's legal and political lives are entwined. A California Mexican restaurant chain has suddenly shut down after being exposed for violating child labor laws and 'retaliating' against a lactating employee. C Casa - a beloved taqueria with locations in Napa, Emeryville and San Ramon - announced it permanently closed its doors over the weekend. 'It is with both gratitude and a heavy heart that we announce C Casa has permanently closed its doors,' the restaurant's team and owner Catherine Bergen wrote in a statement. 'For the past 15 years, youve been part of our journey - sharing meals, laughter, and memories. Were deeply thankful for your support, loyalty, and love for what we created together.' This announcement came just over a week after the US Department of Labor (DOL) hit the business more than $48,000 in fines for 'reckless child labor law violations' and lost wages. The violations were discovered at the C Casa in Napa, located inside of the well-known Oxbow Public Market. 'C Casa Restaurant and Bar Napas practices endangered children and raised an unacceptable barrier to equitable workforce participation for women,' Donald Hines of the DOL wrote in a December 26, 2024 press release. An investigation revealed that C Casa was allowing workers as young as 14 to work outside of the permitted hours on school days. C Casa taquerias in Napa, Emeryville and San Ramon have been shut down amid child labor violations The DOL discovered violation at the C Casa in Napa, located inside of the well-known Oxbow Public Market Catherine Bergen (center) said she apologized for the missteps of the business, but said the DOL exaggerated the truth The young staff members were also operating 'hazardous equipment,' according to the DOL. Investigators also found that 'the restaurant failed to provide a nursing employee with the proper space and time to express breast milk during their workday.' The lactating worker was reportedly 'harassed and retaliated' against by her boss, who reduced her work schedule and earning potential, the DOL said. Bergen responded the the accusations made by the DOL, saying she has acknowledged and addressed the missteps of the business. But she claimed that the DOL made 'misleading statements' about the Napa restaurant. She wrote to the San Francisco Chronicle: 'While we respect the importance of workplace compliance, we do not believe these fines are appropriate or reflective of the facts. 'The Department has recovered nothing to date, and it is both unfair and damaging to suggest otherwise.' Bergen said in the late-December statement that her business will 'challenge [the DOL] through the legal process.' The local chain had three C Casa locations. The first restaurant opened in 2010 in Napa's Oxbow Public Market C Casa prided itself on its fresh ingredients and has been praised by customers over the years She accused the DOL of 'one-sided telling' and told the San Francisco Chronicle that the young workers referenced in the investigation were the children of longtime employees. The owner added that she apologized to the nursing employee and offered her a private lactation room. On Saturday, Oxbow Public Market management learned that C Casa has shuttered and will be leaving the market for good. Property manager Gabe Carlin told SFGate: 'C CASA has been a fixture in the Oxbow Public Market since 2010, and we are very sorry to see them go.' A Florida school district banned students from using their phones during school hours, leading to less violence and more engagement. Back in the fall, Broward County Public Schools instituted a near total ban on student cell phones. The ban extends to the lunchrooms with the exception of emergencies, according to NBC Miami. The tactic has paid off - despite initial safety concerns. Fights amongst students are down 17 percent since the fall, according to school board member Dr. Allen Zeman, who credits the downward trend to youngsters not having phones on hand to arrange the altercations. 'The lack of cellphones leads to fewer fights, to fights with fewer people that last fewer minutes and it also reduces cyberbullying, which is something that causes fights,' he told NBC Miami. He also said that banning the devices stopped students from being able to record fights, which he said stopped bystanders from helping their peers and ending the fighting. But taking away phones has done before than just lower bullying and fights on campus - it caused students to become more engaged with their academics. 'Ive noticed a lot more creativity with students,' Fort Lauderdale High School teacher Dan Katz told the outlet. 'I think their attention spans are a little longer, they have excellent conversations in their groups, those conversations are lasting longer, our class discussions are definitely a lot longer and theyre a lot deeper because no ones really focused on checking their phone.' Back in the fall, Broward County Public Schools instituted a near total ban on student cell phones. The ban extends to the lunchrooms with the exception of emergencies (pictured: stock image) Fights amongst students are down 17 percent, according to school board member Dr. Allen Zeman (pictured), who credits the downturn to youngsters not having phones to arrange altercations He's also noticed less drama in the classroom and better overall performance from students. Zeman said students 'gains are greater than they were' compared to last year and teachers are enjoying the improvement. 'I had a teacher write to us and say for the first time in 10 years, for each student in her classroom, she had two eyeballs watching her give a lecture,' Zeman told NBC Miami. The policy goes beyond just cellphones. It also bans tablets, laptops, headphones, earbuds, and smartwatches in a big to 'disconnect to reconnect,' a press release read. Student are expected to keep their devices in airplane mode or turned off during school hours. Students or parents who need to get in contact with each other throughout the day will be allowed to do so in the school office. When the policy initially rolled out, some parents were concerned they wouldn't be able to reach their children during an emergency, such as a school shooting. The Parkland shooting took place in a Broward County school in 2018. Taking away phones has done before than just lower bullying and fights on campus, but caused students to become more engaged with their academics. 'Ive noticed a lot more creativity with students,' Fort Lauderdale High School teacher Dan Katz (pictured) said 'I think their attention spans are a little longer, they have excellent conversations in their groups, those conversations are lasting longer, our class discussions are definitely a lot longer and theyre a lot deeper because no ones really focused on checking their phone,' he said about his students (pictured: Ford Lauderdale High School) '[Students] need to be able to communicate with the outside world, with their parents or their guardians, to let them know that theres a problem,' parent Carline Dumoulin told NBC News in November. 'We know whats happened before.' Cellphones were a big part of the Parkland shooting, allowing students to text their loved ones and take videos that would later be used at the shooter's trial. However, the school board said students' phones would be located nearby - like one class who has a holder near the classroom door - to be used during emergencies. One of the board members, Lori Alhadeff, even lost her daughter Alyssa in the Parkland shooting and had texted the student throughout the event. 'I know its scary, but we have and will communicate with parents as soon as possible to let them know that their kids are safe,' she said in November to reassure parents. MBABANE Princess Lungile has failed to convince the court to declare the transfer of Victor Gamedzes shares, which he held in Eswatini Mobile, invalid. Judge Zonke Magagula yesterday dismissed Princess Lungiles application with costs in favour of Cherrybite (Pty) Ltd. Gamedzes shares, according to Princess Lungile, were transferred on May 28, 2019, by the executor of his estate, Derrick Jele, to Cherrybite (Pty) Ltd, which was reportedly represented by businessman Michelo Shakantu. She told the court that her late husbands shares were transferred to Shakantu without her knowledge or consent. She approached the court after she learnt that the shares were reportedly being sold by Shakantu to Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF). Among other business interests, Gamedze held shares in Eswatini Mobile through his company, Stage 1 Connections (Pty) Ltd. Apart from dismissing the application yesterday, Judge Magagula also found that the princess, who was the applicant, did not have the right standing to institute these proceedings in court. According to Judge Magagula, the princess does not have the right standing to interfere or interject in the sale of the shares between Cherrybite and the PSPF without having first set aside the transfer of the shares. Questions There may be questions regarding the agreement or purported agreement for the transfer of the shares to the fourth respondent (Cherrybite), but unless and until the transfer of the shares is set aside, the applicant (princess) cannot be heard to want to interfere, said the judge in the ex tempore judgment. Reasons for the judgment will be issued in due course. In this matter, Princess Lungile sought an order that the purported sale and transfer of 1 000 shares between the executor in Gamedzes estate and Cherrybite, duly represented by Shakantu, be declared null and void ab initio. She also sought an order that the transfer of the said shares by the executor to Cherrybite, dated 28 May 2019, pursuant to the sale, be declared null and void ab initio.The princess further prayed that the registrar of companies be directed and authorised to re-register the 1 000 shares in the name of Gamedzes estate and that Stage 1 Connections (Pty) Ltd revert to the control of the executor forthwith. Gamedze was the sole shareholder of Stage 1 Connections (Pty) Ltd. He held 1 000 shares which, according to the applicant, stood at over E20 million, as of June 30, 2024.When the matter was heard yesterday, Judge Magagula asked Ben J. Simelane, who represented Princess Lungile, to address the court on the elephant in the room. The elephant in the room, according to Simelane, was that the executor transferred Gamedzes shares to Cherrybite without any form of consideration. Discharge Judge Magagula asked if the executor transferred the shares in the discharge of duties consistent with his position. Simelane argued that the complaint was that the executor purportedly acted in a manner not consistent with his fiduciary duties. He also argued that the executor entered into an agreement with Shakantu and Cherrybite to take over the estates indebtedness to EswatiniBank, where Gamedze or his estate owed E120 million. The judge said Cherrybite did not agree with the argument. That is the strange part, according to Simelane. He said Shakantu told of his ignorance regarding the acquisition of the shares.They are not singing from the same hymn book. We say the agreement ought to be set aside, said Simelane, adding that they were not shown the agreement to transfer the shares. The judge asked if Princess Lungiles complaint was against Jeles action as the executor. Simelane told the court that to some degree that was the complaint. The court also enquired where the master of the High Court was. According to Simelane, they are of the view that the master does not feature anywhere as of now. The attorney further told the court that Princess Lungile got to know about the sale of the shares. Her fear is that the shares might be dissipated. We are trying to arrest that by coming to court. The one who is about to be paid by PSPF is not entitled. We are trying to stop that. We will lose irreparably if PSPF pays Cherrybite, submitted Simelane. Judge Magagula said the shares are now owned by Cherrybite, unless their transfer to the latter is reversed. Cherrybite can sell them to whomever, said the judge. Simelane said they were trying to stop that. Cherrybite has not met basic conditions set by the executor. We dont know if this was an improper arrangement, but the estate stands to suffer if this goes ahead, the attorney stated. Princess Lungile stated that the transfer was reportedly carried out without a purchase price and without obtaining the necessary approvals. She argued that the absence of a purchase price in the agreement rendered the purported sale null and void ab initio. Further, she told the court that all indications were that no evaluation of the shares was made prior to their purported disposal or transfer. However, Shakantu said the princess consented to the transfer of the shares in the presence of her attorney at the time. Emmanuel Shabangu of Robinson Bertram, on behalf of the executor, only clarified that the agreement in question was partly oral and written. Cyril Mamba of S.V. Mdladla and Associates appeared for Eswatini Mobile. Its not true Cherrybite agreed to pay all debts MBABANE Advocate Thakane Mofokeng said it was not true that Cherrybite (Pty) Limited agreed to pay all the debts of the estate of the late Victor Mfana Gamedze. This is far from the truth, said Mofokeng. In his answering papers, Michelo Shakantu submitted that his concern was limited to the exposure relating to Eswatini Mobile, not the entire indebtedness of Gamedze. The deceased had other debts which were of no concern to Eswatini Mobile. The quantum of the claims made by EswatiniBank against the estate were known to both parties, that is, the executor and Cherrybite as well as the applicant (Princess Lungile). Mofokeng told the court that the EswatiniBank claim was for E9 844 667.59. This was the consideration for the shares, he said. Princess Lungile in her papers said she had previously explained the issue of the consideration, and so had the executor, Derrick Jele, in his clarifying affidavit. She accepted that value would have been brought to the estate had Michelo Shakantu performed to date as the executor pointed out that he had not, despite being put in default. This response, according to Mofokeng, was not a denial that Shakantu was concerned with exposure relating to Eswatini Mobile, and not the entire indebtedness of Gamedze. Crucially, it is not a denial that the consideration for the subject shares was E9 844 667.59. The executor has also not denied Mr Shakantus averments in this regard. In the circumstances, the allegation that the second respondent is blowing hot and cold is clearly baseless and not supported by facts. There is clearly no disagreement, Mofokeng argued. EswatiniBank: Estate exposure was E9.8m MBABANE EswatiniBank wrote an affidavit stating that the exposure of the estate was E9.8 million and this is how much Michelo Shakantu could take care of. Advocate Thakane Mofokeng, on behalf of Shakantu, argued that, that was the consideration. Mofokeng, who was instructed by Banele Manzini of MJ Manzini and Associates, submitted that Princess Lungile said she did not see any proof of payment. The advocate pointed out that here we are dealing with shares. Mofokeng said Princess Lungile conceded the consideration. The EswatiniBank claim was for E9.8 million. According to the advocate, what Princess Lungile contemplates to vindicate are the shares which are the lawful property of Cherrybite. Logically, and subject to fulfilment of all necessary legal requirements, the princess would, under the prevailing circumstances, be expected to institute an application to interdict Cherrybite from disposing of the shares pending the contemplated vindicatory action. That is an interdict to preserve the subject shares. Glaringly, the applicant contemplates the opposite. Applicant has made it abundantly clear in her affidavits, and this has been confirmed in open court, that she has no objection to the sale and transfer of the shares to PSPF. In fact, she wants the shares to be sold to PSPF, so that she can lay a claim to the proceeds of the sale, stated Mofokeng in the supplementary heads of argument. Inconsistent He said her conduct was clearly inconsistent with the preservation of the shares. He also said her failure to apply for an interdict aimed at preserving the subject matter of the contemplated vindicatory action was fatal to her case. Applicant has not proffered any explanation as to why the present interdict proceedings are not aimed at preserving the subject shares pending her ill-fated vindicatory (based on a real right and concerned with the ownership of a thing) action, he submitted. Apart from the above fatal error, applicants contemplated vindicatory or quasi-vindicatory action has zero prospects of success. Quasi-vindicatory action seeks the delivery of specific property under some legal right to possession rather than as the owner or lawful possessor. Furthermore, Mofokeng argued that reliance on the presumption of irreparable harm in applications for interim interdicts relating to vindicatory or quasi-vindicatory claims is totally misconceived, as the said presumption does not apply in Princess Lungiles case. He also told the court that Princess Lungile, who is one of the beneficiaries, had no legal standing to bring a vindicatory action where an executor dative has been appointed. "This is so because the estate is not a legal persona, only the executor can sue or be sued on its behalf. The law is well settled on this point, he said. Applicant has not alleged any reason why the above settled legal principle does not apply to her case. The advocate also argued that Princess Lungile had unequivocally averred that the proposed sale or transfer of the subject shares to PSPF should proceed and this defeats the very purpose of a demand for the return of what belongs to a plaintiff. The applicant in her Particulars of Claim has alleged that the shares are held by Cherrybite pursuant to a sale agreement entered into by the executor and Cherrybite. Transfer However, the Particulars of Claim do not allege that the sale and transfer of the shares has been set aside or terminated. In other words, the Particulars of Claim concede that Cherrybite is, as things stand, the lawful owner of the subject shares. On another note, Mofokeng argued that Princess Lungile appeared to confuse the remedy of the legal action by which a plaintiff demands that a defendant returns what belongs to the plaintiff with the remedy of cancellation of a contract. He pointed out that the princess averred that Cherrybite was clearly in default even though Shakantu denied it, and the issue of cancellation of the agreement entered into by and between the executor and Cherrybite is for the trial court and not for the interdict which seeks to preserve the estate asset. Clearly, applicant relies on a non-existent disagreement between the executor and Cherrybite regarding the sale, for the cancellation of the agreement. Princess Lungiles Particulars of Claim, according to Mofokeng, do not disclose a cause of action for cancellation of the sale agreement. He said her Particulars of Claim are largely premised on the allegation that the sale agreement between the executor and Cherrybite was invalid. The essential averments to sustain a cause of action for cancellation of the contract have not been made. Applicant cannot rely on the same Particulars of Claim to sustain a claim for cancellation, for a contract cannot be both void ab initio and be alive at the same time. Applicants weak, if not non-existent, claim to cancellation of the sale agreement is further compounded by the fact that the executor has made a clear, unequivocal election to abide by the contract. The election by the executor is final and cannot be reversed, the advocate argued. Britain faces its coldest weather in four years this week as temperatures plunge to -20C with more snow on the way and dozens of people rescued from flooding. Minimum temperatures of -3C (27F) to -10C (14F) are expected widely across the UK tonight, before falling to -16C (3F) in areas still with snow on Wednesday night. Lows of -20C (-4F) are then forecast in the Pennines and snow-hit areas of Scotland on Thursday night. This would be the UK's coldest night since February 11, 2021, when Braemar in Aberdeenshire fell to -23C (-9F), which at the time was a 15-year low. The UK Health Security Agency has imposed an amber cold health alert for England until this Sunday amid 'significant impacts across health and social care services'. The Met Office has also warned of further severe conditions, with a snow and ice warning in place for parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland until 12pm tomorrow. A separate snow alert for southern England, including south London, runs tomorrow from 9am until midnight with up to 4in (10cm) expected over higher ground. Forecasters warned of cancelled trains and flights, drivers becoming stranded in the snow, power cuts and even the potential for rural communities to be cut off. Just yesterday, it was Britain's coldest night of winter so far with -13.3C (8.1F) at Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands - but this will likely be beaten in the next few days. Meanwhile, a dramatic video showed a daredevil using a wakeboard to surf along a flooded country road in Leicestershire as he was pulled by a vehicle driving through. A tractor clears a path in Northumberland today as weather warnings for snow remain in force A man is rescued from a flooded caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today MET OFFICE WARNINGS: A snow and ice warning for Scotland runs from 12pm today until 12pm tomorrow, and for Northern Ireland from 3pm today until 12pm tomorrow. A separate snow alert for southern England, including south London, will be active tomorrow from 9am until midnight The Environment Agency imposed 122 flood warnings and 213 alerts across England this afternoon, while National Resources Wales issued one warning and six alerts. It comes as people living at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire were urged to act now, with a large-scale evacuation required to save lives. Heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt prompted the Environment Agency to issue a 'danger to life' severe flood warning for the River Soar. One man was rescued from a caravan in Proctors Park, Barrow upon Soar, on a raft this morning. And two people had to be rescued from flood water by firefighters on Leicester Road in Leicester yesterday afternoon. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service said as of 6am today, 59 people had been rescued - including the two in Leicester Road, who were attempting to walk through flood waters and lost their footing. It added that firefighters and paramedics attended because the people had to be rescued with a water raft and had sustained some injuries. In North Yorkshire, police said the body of a man had been recovered yesterday from an area of flooding in Beal, near Eggborough and Knottingley. Scores of flood warnings remain in place across England as fresh snow flurries hit London and Manchester this morning. Hundreds of schools have been closed across the UK, with more than 170 shut in Bradford, as well as more than a dozen in Lancashire. Met Office chief forecaster Jason Kelly said: 'With cold weather persisting across the UK this week we have a number of severe weather warnings for wintry hazards. 'Snow showers will continue to fall over Scotland, Northern Ireland and into Northern Wales and northern England too. Where surface water and snow freeze overnight there is a risk of ice as temperatures widely dip below freezing. A dog walker makes his way through snow in Northumberland this afternoon Qasim Abdullah walks through his flooded home in Loughborough, Leicestershire, today Glenshee Ski Centre is pictured today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force Heavy snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Qasim Abdullah talks to a journalist through the window of his flooded home in Loughborough A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning Aberdeen Airport paused flights amid 'freezing conditions' today as ploughs cleared the snow Severe flooding at Proctors Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today A tractor clears snow at Glenshee Ski Centre in Scotland today as severe weather continues Difficult driving conditions today for drivers with roads flooded near Chelmsford in Essex An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Homes stand in flood water today after the Grand Union Canal burst its banks in Loughborough Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Light snow falls on a residential street in Kilburn, north-west London, this morning A man pulls a sledge at Glenshee Ski Centre in Scotland today during the severe weather Vehicles in flood water today after the Grand Union Canal burst its banks in Loughborough 'There will however be good spells of sunshine for those away from northern coasts, though it'll still feel cold in the northerly breeze.' Experts also warned of an ongoing flood risk due to the combination of heavy rain and snow melt. Stefan Laeger, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: 'The recent heavy rain combined with melting snow means it is probable significant river flooding will continue in Leicestershire today, with minor river flooding probable in some other parts of the country, continuing through to Thursday for some larger rivers. 'Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, operating flood defences, taking action to reduce the impact of flooding, issuing flood warnings and supporting those communities affected. 'We urge people to remain vigilant over the next few days and advise anyone travelling to be especially careful and urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.' Skiers at Glenshee Ski Centre today as the Met Office issued further weather warnings Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning Rescuers in floodwater at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Bristol Airport suspended all flights for a period this morning due to the heavy snow conditions Homes stand in flood water today after the Grand Union Canal burst its banks in Loughborough Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning A drone view of snow on the Owley Wood housing estate in Weaverham, Cheshire, today People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Qasim Abdullah talks to a journalist through the window of his flooded home in Loughborough Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today A Volvo crashed in Warrington, Cheshire, today as snowfall continues to affect Britain A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today The Met Office is also expecting further snow could fall parts of southern England for a period tomorrow, although this remains unconfirmed despite a warning being in place. Mr Kelly said: 'Weather conditions will start to change from the southwest on Wednesday, with fronts from the Atlantic bringing milder air along with moisture. 'As this moisture encounters the cold air, snowfall is expected particularly over higher ground and away from the coast. 'However, there is still uncertainty about how far north these fronts will reach. They could either skirt the south or move into southern England. 'Currently, a snow warning is in place, but it is not guaranteed. The situation is being closely monitored. As the forecast is finely balanced, do stay up to date with the latest forecast for your area.' Thursday and Friday will bring continued low temperatures with the Met Office saying snow and ice warnings were 'likely to be issued as confidence in the most likely impacted areas increases'. Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A wintry scene in Northumberland today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Skiers are seen at Glenshee Ski centre in Scotland today during the severe weather Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today An Amur tiger in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today It added that fronts moving in from the South West on Friday and Saturday could also bring more snow, with the possibility of further warnings. Met Office deputy chief forecaster Chris Almond said: 'Thursday will see another cold night, with potentially the lowest temperatures of the Winter so far, -15C or so is possible in locations with lying snow in Scotland or northern England. 'In the early hours of Friday, a front arriving from the west will encounter the cold air in place over the UK. 'This could bring further sleet or snowfall for some regions in the south and west, as well as a risk of ice for a time as it moves north-eastwards into central parts, but the extent of this is still uncertain.' He added that by Sunday, milder air will have moved in across much of the UK, 'meaning rain is more likely than snow as we get to the end of the weekend'. Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Heavy snow falls in Hulme, Greater Manchester, this morning as the severe weather continues An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning A car drives through floodwater in Yalding, Kent, this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning An aerial photograph taken by drone shows the sun rising behind the Royal Liver building today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning Light snow on the ground in the Oxfordshire village of Dunsden this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice Mr Almond continued: 'Northern Ireland and Western Scotland are most likely to see some showery outbreaks of rain and breezy conditions through Sunday, with conditions further south and east drier and more settled.' BBC lead weather presenter Simon King issued a forecast for even lower temperatures, writing: 'Where there is still snow cover, it could be as cold as -14C to -16C, making Wednesday the coldest night of winter so far. 'Thursday night will be colder still. Over the Pennines and the snow fields of Scotland, we are expecting minimum temperatures to be -16C to -20C.' Yesterday, a critical incident was declared by East Midlands Ambulance for the first time ever, with flooding partly responsible for the 'level of escalation'. A major incident was declared by authorities in Lincolnshire last night, with a warning that more flooding could occur today. Camels in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A snow plough driver at the closed snow gates on the A93 in Spittal of Glenshee today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force A drone view shows snow covering the rooftops of houses in Greater Manchester this morning An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A car drives past a van stranded in floodwater in Yalding, Kent, this morning A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said 40 flood warnings and 29 flood alerts were in place across the county, with reports of 62 properties 'internally flooded'. Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said in a statement: 'We are keeping a really close watch on this as it develops because we know that there might potentially be more flooding, particularly in areas which may be affected by tidal waters.' It said emergency services were on standby at Greatford, near Stamford, to monitor the West Glen River, which it said threatened to inundate dozens of properties in the area. Neil Monteith, 49, owns a caravan on the front row of the Proctors Pleasure Park, near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire, which was surrounded by floodwater today. He said: '(The water) is the highest I've seen it, I've never seen it this bad before.' Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow in Glenshee, Perthshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice remain in force Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire this morning An Andean bear in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today A drone view of the River Weaver in Weaverham, Cheshire, today following snowfall Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning Baboons in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, is surrounded by rising flood water today Flooded fields in Wanlip, Leicestershire, today as weather warnings remain in force Flooded fields in Glen Parva, Leicestershire, today amid weather warnings for snow and ice A van stranded in floodwater in Yalding, Kent, today as warnings remain in force Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today A view of flooding around Pulborough in West Sussex this morning A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning Andean bears in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Mr Monteith added that he no longer lives in the caravan and only keeps furniture inside but said that it is 'more than likely' damaged. A woman who lives near the Proctors Pleasure Park and did not wish to be named said: 'They put in new flood defences - it used to flood all the time then it stopped, but this is unprecedented. 'It's a flood plain, that's what it's for but they build houses on it and nobody will acknowledge it or accept it.' Yesterday, around 50 pupils were evacuated from a school in Lincolnshire. All roads leading to Edenham Primary School were flooded, though the school remained safe because it is on higher ground. Today, road and rail links have been closed including the A1 in Lincolnshire - which is closed between the B6326 near Newark-on-Trent and the B1174 near Grantham, according to National Highways. Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow surrounding the Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool this morning Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today Snow on the ground at Pier Head in Liverpool today as weather warnings remain in place Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning An aerial view of flooded streets and fields in the Leicestershire village of Quorn today Flooding between Capenhurst and Hooton railway stations in Cheshire this morning Skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes at Allenheads ski club in Northumberland today A baboon in the snow at Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow gates are closed on the A93 near Glenshee in Perthshire this morning A frosty start to the day in Dunsden, Oxfordshire, today as warnings remain in place Severe flooding at Proctor's Pleasure Park near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire today A man wearing waders carries a dog at The Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, today The Oxfordshire village of Dunsden woke up to a smattering of snow this morning People walk across London Bridge this morning amid the cold weather and rainfall today Vehicles in flood water near the River Devon in Bottesford, Leicestershire, this morning An Iberian wolf in the snow Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside today Snowfall on the high street at Saddleworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, today Snow in Handforth, Cheshire, today as weather warnings for snow and ice are in force And Great Western Railway said flooding has closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall. Manchester, Bristol, Aberdeen and Liverpool John Lennon airports were forced to suspend flights earlier today because of the conditions. It comes as the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) called for the Government to take action to prepare fire and rescue services for flood response following widespread flooding. Unlike the rest of the UK, fire and rescue services in England do not have a statutory duty to respond to flooding, meaning that central Government does not provide secure funding for national flood resilience and response, the FBU said. The FBU wrote to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper in November, calling for 'the UK to be made resilient to flooding with a statutory duty and investment'. Austrian incest monster Josef Fritzl is demanding that the new house he intends to move into if released from prison must have a cellar. Fritzl, 89, callously imprisoned his daughter Elisabeth in a cellar for 24 years, and raped her thousands of times, forcing her to conceive seven children. He is currently serving a life sentence at Stein prison in Austria, but his lawyer, Dr Astrid Wagner, is pursuing a strategy for him to secure early release by claiming his dementia could render him unfit to remain incarcerated. Speaking to Mail Online, Dr Wagner said: 'I went to see Mr Fritzl in prison today, and he keeps talking about wanting to be in a house when he gets out of prison, and he has made very, very clear it has to have a cellar. 'He says he wants a cellar because he has so many things he needs to store. Of course he's been transferred from a high security to the standard prison, but he still has all his things which he has collected over the years.' 'I'm talking about loads and loads of files and folders. This is why he said his new place absolutely has to have a cellar.' When asked if she thought he was aware how unsuitable it was for him to demand a cellar given his horrific crimes, Wagner said: 'He didn't really notice, or maybe he didn't but he didn't say anything. He's old and getting more and more frail. He'll be 90 next year. And now it's time for him to be released.' Josef Fritzl is seen during day four of his trial at the country court of St. Poelten in 2009. He was handed a life sentence Fritzl was locked up in 2009 after he admitted to raping his daughter Elisabeth (pictured) and fathering seven children with her Elisabeth and her children lived in the basement of the family home in Amstetten while Fritzl and his wife Rosemarie lived above Elisabeth lived in this dingy, cramped basement for 24 years with her children 'I'm pursuing the argument that he needs to be released because of his dementia, but of course there are big obstacles because it's such a political case.' The lawyer says Fritzl's prison cell is overloaded with paperwork, which he claims would require a basement to manage. Sixteen years after his 2008 arrest, Fritzl was recently moved from a high security prison to a standard facility. The court in Krems ruled that the ageing criminal no longer poses a significant danger, based on assessments by psychiatrist Heidi Kastner and Wagner's defence strategy. Wagner has proposed relocating Fritzl to other facilities, such as Suben or Tullnerbach, where he could access dementia therapy and enjoy supervised outings. 'His ultimate goal is to live independently again. He dreams of a house in the countryside,' she said. Wagner revealed last year that the delusional Fritzl had instructed her to start looking for a new house in the country - despite judges denying him hope of an early release due to what they described as his 'unprecedented' criminality. Fritzl's heinous crimes, including rape, coercion, and imprisonment, sent shockwaves across Austria and Europe when they were uncovered in 2008. Elisabeth, who he abused from the age of 11, disappeared in 1984 at age 18. For nearly 25 years, Fritzl held his daughter captive in a cramped and moldy soundproof basement beneath his home in Amstetten, which he built. He raped his daughter thousands of times over many years, with the abuse resulting in the birth of seven children - three of which remained in captivity with their mother. One died at the hands of Fritzl, a matter of days after being born. His disposed of the body in an incinerator. The other three were brought up by Fritzl and his wife, Rosemarie, who lived in the house above. The discovery of his sickening crimes occurred only when one of his daughters fell critically ill, forcing him to seek medical help. Fritzl's lawyer, Astrid Wagner, said she intends to fight the process by which the court will appoint another person to act and make decisions on behalf of the 89-year-old He took the child to hospital, leading to the discovery of the cellar and the rescue of Elisabeth and her remaining children. Fritzl had previously lied about his daughter's whereabouts, claiming Elisabeth had joined a cult. He notoriously defended himself in court by saying: 'I am not a monster.' Fritzl was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009 for incest, rape, coercion, false imprisonment, enslavement and for the negligent homicide of one of his infant sons. The depraved rapist has been suffering from 'dementia and delusional episodes' in recent months, according to Austrian media. He was moved from a maximum security hospital wing for the criminally insane in Stein to a regular prison last spring. The 89-year-old was recently moved from a maximum security hospital wing for the criminally insane in Stein to a regular prison The transfer, based on a decision by a three-member panel of the Krems Regional Court, became legally binding at the end of May. In mid-May, a decision was also made on a general conditional release from the normal prison to freedom. The authorities determined that this was 'not possible for special preventive reasons', according to Austrian media. They added that, given the 'unprecedented criminal energy in connection with the convicted crimes,' it cannot be assumed that 'future freedom from crime' will be guaranteed. Fritzl will be on a ten-year probation in the regular prison, meaning he could be returned to the higher security facility. The boss of McDonald's in the UK has said he 'cannot' guarantee a time when there will be no allegations of sexual abuse at the fast food chain after 700 workers launched fresh claims. Alistair Macrow defended his record and denied allegations of a 'pattern of abuse' of vulnerable teenagers by managers when he appeared before the Commons Business Select Committee on Tuesday afternoon. He claimed his reforms 'are working' - hours after fresh allegations of sexual harassment and abuse emerged. But he dismissed cases of serious allegations put to him by MPs as 'isolated incidents' and 'one-off cases' carried out by 'bad-minded people'. It comes after 700 people aged 19 or under when working at McDonald's joined a legal action against the company, with claims including discrimination, homophobia, racism, ableism and harassment. Of 75 claims of sexual harassment reported to the business in the last 12 months, bosses told MPs that 47 were upheld, with 29 people dismissed. More than 450 McDonald's restaurants have been implicated in the scandal so far. Mr Macrow, chief executive officer of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said: 'Those allegations described are abhorrent, unacceptable and there is no place for them in McDonald's. There cannot be any room in our business for people who behave in that manner. 'The measures that are put in place mean that we are able to offer a secure, safe workplace where people are respected and feel included. I hear from our people that it is working.' However when challenged by Committee head Liam Byrne, Mr Macrow was unable to tell MPs how many managers had been sacked over inappropriate behaviour and admitted he could not guarantee the business would ever be 'abuse free'. The boss of McDonald's UK business Alistair Macrow (pictured) appeared in front of MPs for the second time this afternoon McDonald's said the company is 'determined to root out' behaviour which falls below expected standards When questioned about when it is expected there will be zero reports of harassment at McDonald's restaurants, Mr Macrow said: 'I cannot guarantee a time when there will be no allegations raised.' It came after fast-food chain McDonald's was hit by fresh allegations of sexual and homophobic abuse this morning as staff members allege they have been 'touched up' by managers and offered extra shifts for sex. The chain first faced bombshell claims of widespread sexual abuse and harassment at its stores in July 2023 and has since been reported more than 300 times for harassment to the UK's equality watchdog. Allegations have included racist abuse, sexual assault - including rape - and harassment and bullying. The watchdog reportedly now intends to intervene again due to the volume of complaints, with the business mostly employing young people from the age of 16. Employees have described a 'toxic' work environment with little to no protection from senior management and no response to complaints. One female employee from the Midlands, who worked at McDonald's until May 2023, has revealed how a senior manager, who was in his 30s, asked her for sex in exchange for shifts when she was just 17. The worker, named Claire, was employed on a zero hours contract and relied on picking up shifts to increase her hours and earn money. She described feeling 'dependent' on her managers and said: 'You don't expect that to happen. It was totally inappropriate.' Responding to her case when questioned by MPs today, Mr Macrow denied that zero hours contracts caused a power imbalance between managers and employees. Ilana Cole, 19, alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed He said 'our managers are our first line of defence against any bad behaviour', adding: 'Contracts that we offer in McDonald's, which are fair contracts, do not create any sort of systemic behaviour or issue with imbalances of power, I'm very confident of that. 'I believe we have in place all of the right people checks to ensure managers are not using them in that way. 'I don't see any pattern that poor behaviour is driven by managers at all.' He also revealed to MPs that 15 franchisees have left McDonald's over the last five years due to underperformance. Six of those were for failing to meet the standard for people practices, he said - although it was not clear whether these were before or after allegations first emerged in 2023. Addressing Claire's case specifically, he said: 'This isn't an issue about an imbalance of power, this is an issue of very poor behaviour of people in our organisation. 'That behaviour is abhorrent, I want to investigate it but that is a one-off situation.' Other employees as young as 16 reported being bullied and yelled at, with a 20-year-old woman telling how a manager sent her topless pictures. Another woman, who quit her job at a West Midlands branch at the end of 2023, told the BBC managers inappropriately touched her and customers harassed her. She claims that when she reported the abuse, she was told to 'suck it up'. Meanwhile another employee named Matt quit his Midlands job in 2024 after being bullied. He said he also witnessed racist behaviour by managers. He said he was harassed for having a learning disability and an eye condition, and claimed other colleagues were 'scared' to go to work. 'It was stuff you noticed, managers and staff being racist to other staff. Managers trying to touch other staff up,' he said. Scotland employee Alan, 19, added he had been subjected to 'degrading' homophobic abuse which involved colleagues using offensive homophobic slurs, both to his face and behind his back. He added he was told it was 'just banter' when he brought up his concerns, and it 'seems like McDonald's don't care'. Liam Byrne, head of the Business Committee who questioned Macrow today, said the situation was 'appalling' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe (stock picture) Other employees previously told MailOnline they had been groped, given sexual nicknames such as 'McBike' and were rated on their appearance at work on scoreboards. It was revealed staff members would refer to employees with learning disabilities as 're****s', young women were routinely groped and one store saw managers have a 'scoreboard' for 'sexual conquests'. Ilana Cole, 19, told MailOnline she began working at the chain when she was 16 and was transferred from one branch in Berkshire to another. Upon starting her new role she underwent an interview with a manager. 'He started telling me about the differences between this branch and my last branch and said "Here we're a lot busier, it's like you're getting raped up the a** everyday",' she told MailOnline. 'I was completely shocked that he had just said that but being 16 and naive, I continued to accept the job offer.' When she started working at the restaurant, she claimed matters only got worse. She alleged that she was 'groped' by a manager and saw other young women also sexually harassed. She claimed managers discriminated against staff with disabilities and, in her opinion, treating some crew differently because of their nationality. She said the manager 'would get really close behind the younger girls almost pressed right against their back, constantly getting close to the girls and deliberately brushing his hand against their waist or bum, which he did to me too.' At other points, she spoke to other unhappy staff members, including a man from Romania who she claimed only ever worked on the 'fries station' and 'was completely covered in burns and scars that were never reported'. Ms Cole believes he was treated differently because of his nationality. She added: 'I never complained about the behaviour as all of the managers were best friends with each other, so a complaint wouldn't get very far.' Mr Macrow previously told MPs in November 2023: 'I am absolutely determined to root out any of these behaviours, to identify individuals who are responsible for them and make sure they are eradicated from our business. 'When I became aware of them in the summertime, with the BBC reporting, I immediately took action to start to make a difference.' Mr Byrne told the BBC the situation was 'appalling'. 'There is a clear pattern of abuse here that suggests that McDonald's has become a hotbed of harassment and it's incredibly serious,' he said. 'And when the boss of McDonald's came before us last year he promised that he would root out this problem and it's quite clear that he's failed.' A McDonald's spokesperson told MailOnline it has carried out 'extensive work over the last year to ensure we have industry leading practices in place' to keep staff safe. They continued: 'Our relentless focus on eliminating all forms of harassment at McDonald's is led by a newly created team and informed by the experience and guidance of external experts. Working at speed they have already rolled-out company-wide programmes to improve safeguarding, drive awareness and enhance training. 'We have also recruited our first Head of Safeguarding and in addition to the four speak up channels already available, and have introduced a new, easy to use, digital speak-up channel, Red Flags.' They added: 'Additionally, the Investigations Handling Unit, led by its newly appointed Director and drawing on independent legal experts, is dedicated to rooting out any behaviour that falls below the high standards we demand of everyone at McDonald's. 'McDonald's agreement with the EHRC was signed in early 2023, with the intention that it continues to evolve to ensure the robust measures we have in place are aligned with any updated guidance. 'We are confident that we are taking significant and important steps to tackle the unacceptable behaviours facing every organisation.' A Massachusetts State Police Captain, who was once suspended without pay for being arrested, made half-a-million dollars including overtime pay last year. State Police Detective Capt. Thomas McCarthy earned $349,815 in overtime pay in 2024, boosting his total salary to $584,072, according to state Comptroller records. McCarthy was previously suspended without pay for a year in 2011 after he was arrested for failing to stop for local police while off duty, the agency confirmed to the Boston Herald. Massachusetts State Police (MSP) also confirmed McCarthy 'forfeited' a month's pay in 2005 when he was the 'subject of discipline.' State Police noted McCarthy was assigned to Boston Logan International Airport where construction has contributed to the bulk of his overtime. Four other state police officers are on the list of the top ten overtime earns in Massachusetts during 2024. MSP Lt. James Crump earned $286,623 in overtime, Sgt. Michal Fiore made $260,466, Det. Lt. John Strazzullo racked up $240,119 and Trooper Matthew Thielker collected $223,731. Massachusetts State Police has been the subject of several recent controversies including a previous overtime scandal. State Police Detective Capt. Thomas McCarthy (pictured) earned $349,815 in overtime pay in 2024, boosting his total salary to $584,072 In September, police recruit Enrique Delgado-Garcia, 25, died after suffering a 'medical crisis' during a defensive tactics training exercise. Delgado-Garcia was so badly injured he was left with severe brain trauma, a fractured neck together with the loss of several teeth. Doctors said his injuries were so severe it was tantamount to him being involved in a 100mph car crash. The district attorney assigned to review the case ordered another agency must investigate his death because Delgado-Garcia had worked in the DA's office for 18 months as a victim witness advocate and was well known to staff. The lead MSP investigator in the Karen Read trial as suspended without pay for sordid messages he sent about Reed. Trooper Michael Proctor was infamously forced to read text messages he had sent about Read from the witness stand during her trial, including calling her a 'whack job', a 'c**t', and a 'babe.' In other messages, he joked about rummaging through her phone for nude photos during the investigation. The messages were used by Read's defense as they claimed she was framed by a vast conspiracy involving the Boston Police Department and Massachusetts State Police. In September, police recruit Enrique Delgado-Garcia (pictured), 25, died after suffering a 'medical crisis' during a defensive tactics training exercise Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor (pictured) was suspended without pay for sordid messages he sent about Karen Read In 2018, nearly 50 troopers were implicated in a massive state police overtime scheme. Former MSP Lieutenant Daniel J. Griffin and former MSP Sergeant William W. Robertson were convicted in December 2023 of conspiracy, federal programs fraud and wire fraud in connection with the scandal dating back to 2015. From 2015 through 2018, Griffin, Robertson and other troopers in the Traffic Programs Section at State Police Headquarters in Framingham, conspired to steal thousands of dollars in federally funded overtime by regularly arriving late to, and leaving early from, overtime shifts funded by grants intended to improve traffic safety, according to the U.S. Attorney's office. The former governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney is considering entering the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader of the Canadian Liberal Party. Mr Carney - who ran the UK's central bank between 2013 and 2020 - has mooted a run for high offices after Trudeau's resignation yesterday following months of dire polls for his floundering Liberal government. In a statement to the Financial Times, Mr Carney said: 'I'll be considering this decision closely with my family over the coming days.' Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Mr Carney told the Globe and Mail, a Canadian publication, that the 59-year-old was 'encouraged and honored' by voices of support from Liberal Party MPs and members. Before he headed the Bank of England, the economists steered Canada through the financial crisis during his time as governor of the Bank of Canada from 2007 to 2013. More recently, Mr Carney was one of Trudeau's top advisors and in September he was announced as the leader of a task force tackled with increasing Canada's economic growth. Trudeau has frequently praised Mr Carney, even attempting to recruit him as finance minister, and last year he said: 'He would be an outstanding addition at a time when Canadians need good people to step up in politics.' After nine years as Prime Minister the once popular Trudeau is now amongst the most disliked world leaders in the West. The former governor of the Bank and England and Bank of Canada Mark Carney (pictured) is considering entering the race to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal Party Justin Trudeau announcing his resignation as Canadian Prime Minister yesterday. His resignation comes following months of dire polls for his floundering Liberal government Currently, Canada's Conservative opposition are enjoying a double digit lead in the polls with their leader, Pierre Poilievre, among the top contender to become the new prime minister The number of Canadians who disapprove of him hit an eye-watering 70 per cent on the eve of his resignation. His premiership has been sunk over its policies towards immigration, the cost of living and the affordability of housing. Meanwhile, internal party divisions have dogged his government for months with MPs spooked by a number of polls as the once dominant Liberal Party faces a resurgent Canadian Conservative Party. Trudeau has said he will stay in office until a new leader is chosen and Canada's parliament has been suspended until March 24. It is likely the leadership race will be over by the end of the suspension but the party is yet to lay out a timeline. Mr Carney is likely to join a crowded field of contenders looking to take over as Liberal Party leader. This includes, Trudeau's former deputy Chrystia Freeland and transport minister Anita Anand. However whoever wins is likely to face an immediate election with the looming threat that the minority government could be taken down by a no-confidence vote which would trigger a federal election - currently slated to take place in October. Mr Carney during his time as governor of the Bank of England. a spokesperson for Mr Carney told the Globe and Mail, a Canadian publication, that the 59-year-old was 'encouraged and honored' by voices of support from Liberal Party MPs and members After nine years as Prime Minister the once popular Trudeau is now amongst the most disliked world leaders in the West Currently, Canada's Conservative opposition are enjoying a double digit lead in the polls with their leader, Pierre Poilievre, among the top contender to become the new prime minister. 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. 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. Mr Carney has been critical of the Conservative leader in the past claiming his vision for the country is 'just slogans' and 'without a plan'. Mr Carney is currently chairman of Canadian alternative investment firm Brookfield Asset Management. Mr Carney has been critical of the Conservative leader in the past claiming his vision for the country is 'just slogans' and 'without a plan' Dubbed the 'rock star banker' after his appointment to the Bank in 2013, he was the first foreign governor at the UK central bank since it was founded in 1694. He also led efforts to support the UK economy through Brexit and the initial responses to the pandemic, although his successor Andrew Bailey took over in March 2020 as Covid-19 took hold. Since his role at the Bank, he has held a number of posts in the finance sector and has worked as an adviser to Trudeau. It is thought that whoever does replace Trudeau is likely to face an imminent general election as they will have to contend with a confidence vote soon after taking on the top job. A viral video captured the moment an Argentine influencer was savagely beaten by her friends inside a hotel in Uruguay. Antonela Pane, who has more than 573,000 followers on Instagram, is now claiming that her gal pal was jealous of her American 'sugar daddy'. The bizarre footage showed one of her friends approaching the hotel room and ordering Pane to leave after they had arrived from a night out clubbing in the southeastern seaside town of Punta del Este. 'Grab your things and go,' one of the women can be heard telling Pane. 'We already told them downstairs that you have to go.' One of the women subsequently assaulted Pane, who rushed out of the room and into the hallway. Another woman then walked after Pane with her fist raised and shouted: 'Leave because I am going to beat you.' Pane started walking down the hallway when the woman and another rushed towards her. One of the women pulled on Pane's hair while a third friend attempted to break up the fight. Argentine influencer Antonela Pane has revealed the reason as to why he friends forced her out of a hotel room in Uruguay and pummeled her Argentine influencer Antonela Pane (circled) was beaten by one of her friends at a hotel in the Uruguayan seaside city of Punta del Este, where they recently traveled for getaway trip. Pane revealed on Instagram on Tuesday that her friend was allegedly upset that her 'Yankee sugar daddy' was showing her more love while out clubbing Pane took to her Instagram story to spill the details to her fans, assuring them that she was 'more radiant than ever, happier than ever' and joked that they had messed up her 'wig.' The 27-year-old OnlyFans model said had already planned to visit Punta del Este when her friend, Manuela, called to tell her that her 'sugar daddy' wanted to fly both of them down. Pane jumped at the opportunity as the man wired them the money to purchase the flights. During one of their nights out, Pane sensed that Manuela was bothered by the lack of attention that she was getting from the 'sugar daddy.' 'She couldn't get into the clubs, I could. The boys all followed me, not her,' Pane explained. 'One day, she started to feel a hatred and an irrational envy because everyone did what I wanted and not what she wanted,' she added. 'So well, she started to get angry, to get upset, to insult me, to say awful things to me. I was silent the whole time (like) a young lady. I didn't answer her, I just laughed.' Pane alleged that Manuela's mood change during a car ride in which she was the target of verbal abuse. Argentine influencer Antonela Pane was kicked out of a room and attacked by her friends during a trip to Uruguay that was allegedly paid for by one of the attackers' American 'sugar daddy' Pane appeared to touch her nose after she was attacked by one of her friends Antonela Pane (left) claimed she was able to get her own room following the viral brawl and accused her friends of stealing her belongings Antonela Pane went viral earlier this year after claiming that delivery man dropped off an order of food and rejected her on a night she wanted to have sex Pane recalled playfully telling Manuela that she was a 'beaten prostitute' because she performed oral sex for money, but Manuela apparently misunderstood a word and accused Pane of labeling her a 'raped prostitute.' 'How am I going to tell her that, guys? I didn't even know she had suffered that. I'm not interested in getting into something like that,' Pane said. 'Everyone who knows me knows that I would never in my life say something like that. I mean, it wouldn't have even crossed my mind. I called her beaten. What happens is that it seems to me that it's a phrase that we use with all my friends all the time.' Pane believes that Manuela, who was already jealous over lack of attention she was getting from her 'sugar daddy,' was fueled by the verbal exchange and used it as a motive to initiate the assault. DailyMail.com reached out to Pane for comment. The controversial death of a racing greyhound caused a furious bust-up between a top trainer and stadium manager, followed by mysterious tyre-slashing skulduggery, vanishing CCTV evidence and a sacking, a disciplinary hearing was told. Jimmy Gaskin lost his temper when his greyhound Lisa's Charm suffered a broken leg in a collision during a race at Doncaster Stadium and had to be put down. He said he warned in advance that the selection of greyhounds for the race would lead to some getting hurt and after picking up his injured dog from the track he shouted up at stadium managers Jack and Sarah Saunders 'this is another one you have finished.' Later the trainer had a furious row with Mrs Saunders, allegedly calling her 'Miss Piggy' and a 'fat prostitute'. Gaskin claimed Mrs Saunders had 'just flipped' and had come at him 'like a pitbull' and was 'effing and blinding'. The dramatic fallout was revealed in a report produced by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) which launched an investigation into the altercation and handed out fines to Gaskin totalling 450 at a disciplinary hearing. Gaskin admitted behaving inappropriately, but said he was upset and 'speaking up for the welfare of his greyhounds' after losing 11,000 worth of racing dogs from incidents at the stadium over recent months. Later a second altercation that day between the two took place over his dog's fatal injury. Mrs Saunders told an inquiry that Gaskin raised a waterbowl, 'holding it about a foot from her face' and she told him: 'Go on, hit me.' Trainer Jimmy Gaskin (pictured) lost his temper when his greyhound Lisa's Charm suffered a broken leg in a collision during a race at Doncaster Stadium and had to be put down After picking up his injured dog from the track Mr Gaskin shouted up at stadium managers Jack and Sarah Saunders (both pictured) 'this is another one you have finished' He replied he would have hit her if she had not been a woman. Gaskin walked away and said he would speak to his grandfather Edward Watson, who owned the stadium, about getting rid of her and her husband. Gaskin denied threatening Mrs Saunders with a waterbowl and accused her of 'behaving wildly'. Later the same evening it was found that two tyres on Mr Saunders's car, which was parked in its usual spot at the stadium, had been slashed. Mr Gaskin's van was parked three spaces away. The slashed car was parked in an area covered by a CCTV camera. However, footage couldn't be checked until after the weekend and by then a powercut at the local substation had blown the stadium's electrics and the footage was lost. The hearing was told when Mrs Saunders returned home that night she also discovered all four tyres on her BMW had been slashed, along with a neighbour's car of the same model. Gaskin denied having any knowledge of the slashing of either car's tyres. The disciplinary committee found it 'extremely unlikely that the slashing of Mr Saunders' car tyres was not connected to the accident in the race and that the slashing of his wife's tyres was 'an extraordinary coincidence if not connected' too. However, on the 'balance of probability the case had not been made' out that Gaskin was responsible, the committee decided. Gaskin (pictured) denied threatening Mrs Saunders with a waterbowl and accused her of 'behaving wildly' The dramatic fallout was revealed in a report produced by the Greyhound Board of Great Britain which launched an investigation into the altercation and handed out fines to Gaskin (pictured) totalling 450 at a disciplinary hearing The disciplinary hearing was told Mrs Saunders was sacked five days after the incident in January last year. Mr Watson, the stadium owner, claimed he had given her many verbal warnings previously about her conduct and conflict with trainers. When Mrs Saunders denied receiving previous warnings Mr Watson confirmed 'no formal warnings had been given and no disciplinary process had been pursued.' A month before September's hearing Mrs Saunders and her husband were invited to return to work as stadium managers at Doncaster with substantial salary rises, it was revealed. By his conduct on the day Gaskin was found to have breached rules by acting in an improper manner and in a manner prejudicial to the integrity, proper conduct and good reputation of greyhound racing. He was fined 250. He was also fined 200 for sending an abusive Snapchat message to a member of the GBGB staff in a separate and later incident. Gaskin refused to comment. Donald Trump spoke directly to locals of Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday during his son's visit to the Danish territory. The president-elect called into a lunch Donald Trump Jr. was having with community members so he could tell them why he wants the U.S. to buy Greenland. 'You're so strategically located,' Trump told those dining out for lunch in a call where his son put him on speakerphone. He claims Greenland would be a massive asset to the U.S. because it would allow Washington to provide more security for the entire region and the people of the arctic island. Don Jr. landed in Greenland on Tuesday morning for a trip several insisted was 'personal' in nature. But it immediately became clear that he is there on a mission to further Trump's efforts to acquire the island in his second term. And Trump reiterated on social media that the trip is meant to move forward those intentions. 'Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland,' Trump wrote on Truth Social with a video of the arrival. 'The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE!' 'This is a deal that must happen,' he insisted. 'MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' Trump, during a press conference in Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, insisted to reporters that he's serious about the plan to make Canada part of the U.S., but ruled out doing so by force. Donald Trump Jr. called his father on speaker phone while stopping in for lunch with locals in Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday Filming for @ArtoftheSurge in Greenland. President Trump just called into a lunch @DonaldJTrumpJr, @charliekirk11 and @SergioGor are having with the local community in Nuuk. pic.twitter.com/T1Hca62GQB Justin Wells (@justinbwells) January 7, 2025 Don Jr. took a picture with locals in Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday all wearing red Make America Great Again caps Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that Greenland is not for sale. She said on Tuesday that Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede 'has been very, very clear' that they don't intend to become part of the U.S. 'There is a lot of support among the people of Greenland that Greenland is not for sale and will not be in the future either,' Frederiksen insisted. Speaking to the Greenland community earlier during his son's lunch stop at Hotel Hans Egede, the incoming U.S. president speaking through his son's phone speaker said: 'I just want to say, it's a very special place. It needs security for itself, but also needs security, very much, for the world.' 'The location really, you see the people and the ships sailing around, and they're not the right ships. They're not the ships you want to know about.' 'So we need security our country needs it and the whole world needs it,' he concluded to some cheers from those listening in to the call. Don Jr. landed in chilly, arctic island territory on Tuesday morning for a surprise trip. While multiple people said Don Jr.'s trip to Greenland is 'personal' and not political, the president-elect noted how his son was joined by his 'representatives.' Don Jr. was joined by Sergio Gor and Charlie Kirk for the visit to Greenland, as well as James Blair (not pictured), who is Trump's incoming deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs Residents of Nuuk, Greenland wear red Make America Great Again hats as they stand outside Hotel Hans Egede during Don Jr.'s visit there on Tuesday The chairman of one of the largest political parties in Greenland, however, denied a meeting with Don Jr . and echoed the sentiment that Greenland is not up for grabs. Siumut party leader Erik Jensen told the press: 'I can confirm that I have not planned to meet with him. I say it again that Greenland is not for sale and never will be.' 'Everyone is welcome to visit our country, including Trump,' he added. 'When the future president's son, who is also his own advisor, shows interest in our country, it means that Greenland is serious.' Don Jr. posted multiple videos and photos from Greenland on Tuesday morning. James Blair joins him on the visit to Greenland. Blair is incoming as deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs for Trump's second presidential term. He was the 2024 campaign's political director and oversaw a ground game seeking to reach low-propensity voters. Also on the trip are conservative Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and Sergio Gor, with whom Don co-owns Winning Team Publishing. President-elect Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday a post that suggests the trip is political by noting his 'representatives' went to Greenland with his eldest son And Trump made it clear on his social media site that the trip is meant to move forward his intentions to have the U.S. buy Greenland in his second term. 'Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland,' Trump wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday. 'The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE!' 'This is a deal that must happen,' he insisted. 'MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' During lunch with community members in Nuuk, Greenland, Don Jr. put his father on speakerphone so he could have a quick word with the locals. Sources told DailyMail.com ahead of the trip that Don planned to shoot video and podcasting content and insisted he is not meeting with any government officials or political figures. Some reports suggested the president-elect's oldest son was visiting at the request of Jensen, who is Greenland's minister of finance and supports the independence of Greenland. Jensen now denies he intends to meet with Don. The illegal migrant accused of setting a sleeping woman on fire inside a New York subway car has pleaded not guilty. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, appeared in court in Brooklyn on Tuesday morning in an orange jumpsuit as he was arraigned on the murder and arson charges relating to the killing of Debrina Kawam, 57. Prosecutors say Zapeta set the New Jersey woman on fire on a stopped train at Brooklyns Coney Island station on December 22. Zapeta then fanned the flames with a shirt before sitting on platform bench and watching as Kawam burned, they allege. The court hearing lasted just five minutes, with the next court date set for March 12. Law enforcement sources told The New York Post after his arrest for the killing that he claimed he was drunk and no recollection of the incident. The footage of the moments after Kawam was set on fire went viral as it showed an NYPD officer walking past the fire while a man, allegedly Zepeta, watched on. Zapeta appears in Kings County Supreme Court for an arraignment, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, in New York Zapeta then fanned the flames with a shirt before sitting on platform bench and watching as Kawam, seen here, burned NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told a press conference that officers who responded were not aware the suspect was on the scene at the time. Hours later, the NYPD released images of the suspect, showing him watching his victim burning to death before he casually walks away from the scene. Zapeta eventually boarded the subway later in the day, and he was arrested after he was flagged by high schoolers who recognized him from the images. ICE officials said Zapeta entered the US illegally from Guatemala in 2018 and was deported, but re-entered the country at some point after. The incident quickly became part of the national debate over the dramatic rise in crimes being committed by illegal immigrants in the United States. New York City Mayor Eric Adams came out after Zepeta's arrest to call for federal prosecutors to charge him alongside state charges. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil is shown sitting on a subway bench watching as the woman he set fire to burns alive 'Lighting another human being on fire and watching them burn alive reflects a level of evil that cannot be tolerated,' he said in a statement. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez countered that he wanted the case to stay under state jurisdiction. 'Murder in the first degree carries the possibility of life without parole,' he said, pointing out that was 'more significant in state court than currently in federal court.' 'We believe very strongly that this case belongs in the state court,' he said. 'We have a very strong working relationship with our federal partners and of course we will always do what is in the best interests' of the case. A gorgeous Bernese Mountain dog in Illinois was rescued after a week out in the cold after a drone discovered the missing pet. Charlie had been let out by his owners, Kate Belmonte and her fiance David Nowak, in Crystal Lake on the morning of December 30. The couple spent days looking for the two-year-old dog and enlisted the help of a local search-and-rescue group. The group, Dog Gone Pet Recovery, used a thermal drone operated by Mike from SmithicAir to scan the family's neighborhood before it spotted the dog. 'Oh my god! Yes, we got him! We got him!' one of the rescuers can be heard yelling. The drone found Charlie just a two-minute walk from home, hiding in tall grass. 'He was in this, kind of, park, walking trail area off in some tall grass and broken-down trees. And, he was hiding there,' Belmonte told ABC 6. Charlie was found with a broken femur and sent for surgery after he was reunited with his owners. Two-year-old Charlie went missing for a week after he was let outside in Crystal Lake, Illinois A local search-and-rescue group used a thermal drone to scan the family's neighborhood before it spotted the dog in a miraculous moment 'It's just unbelievable technology, and pretty much without this, to be honest with you, I don't know that we would've been able to find him,' owner David Nowak said alongside fiancee Kate Belmonte Charlie was found with a broken femur and sent for surgery after he was reunited with his owners 'It's just unbelievable technology, and pretty much without this, to be honest with you, I don't know that we would've been able to find him,' Nowak explained. Belmonte said in a Facebook post that the pup's surgery went well and that he was headed home for some needed rest. 'David and I are completely blown away by the support of the community that we live in... You are all such incredible people!!' she wrote. 'If only Charlie knew how he has become the neighborhood celebrity... We can finally sleep with peace of mind. It's been an absolute 7-day nightmare.' A GoFundMe campaign was launched for Charlie and his family to help with the dog's recovery. 'I appreciate all the help and support from everyone! We are completely blown away. I know Charlie says thank you to everyone as well!' Belmonte added. New Delhi, Jan 7 (UNI) The Assembly elections in Delhi will take place in a single phase on February 5, and the votes will be counted on February 8, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday. As per the election commission, the notification will be issued on 10th January, 2025, and the last date of nomination will be 17th January, 2025. The last date of withdrawal of candidates is on 20th January. Announcing the poll dates in a press conference here, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said, "The Election Commission will ensure a strict crackdown on the use of money power in Delhi elections, and proper checking of everyone will be conducted, said CEC Rajiv Kumar. India is a gold standard of elections; its a shared legacy for all of us, including all political parties, he added. There are 1.55 crore voters in Delhi as of January 6, 2025, including 83.49 lakh male voters and 71.74 lakh female voters, and 25.89 lakh young voters, CEC Rajiv Kumar said. There are a total of 70 Assembly constituencies in Delhi, including 58 general seats and 12 seats reserved for Scheduled Castes. There are 79,436 PWD voters, 830 centenarians, 1,261 transgender voters, and 1.09 lakh voters over 85 years voters. The term of the Delhi Assembly ends on February 23, 2025. Rebutting the allegations of certain opposition parties regarding EVM tampering, Chief Election Commissioner said, There is no question of introducing a virus or bug in the EVM. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. High courts and the Supreme Court are continuously saying this in different judgments. EVMs are foolproof devices for counting. Allegations of tampering are baseless, said Rajiv Kumar. Over the allegations of last minute voter turnout, he said, "It is impossible to change voter turnout data; a misconceived narrative is being spread on the increase in voting after 5 p.m...Courts have ruled on 42 occasions that EVMs are not hackable, allegations of tampering totally baseless, he further said. Addressing the concerns raised by political parties over the electoral process, Rajiv Kumar said, 30 state polls have been done since 2020; in 15 states, different parties are the biggest parties. It is one reflection of the fairness of Indian elections....Process can't be judged by results, he said. CEC Rajiv Kumar announced that India is making a landmark in terms of the electoral roll. "We released electoral rolls recently; we are crossing 99 crore voters, and we are going to be a nation of 1 billion voters very soon. This is a world record in the making," Kumar said. UNI JA ARN A toddler has become the fourth victim in the massive firework explosion in Hawaii on New Year's Eve. The blast also killed three women and injured more than 20 people, many of whom have life-changing burns across most of their bodies. They were attending an illegal fireworks display on Tuesday night during the New Year's Eve celebration. Some of the injuries were so gruesome that 'brain matter' was left on the street. The Honolulu medical examiner has identified the three-year-old boy as Cassius Ramos-Benigno it has currently listed his cause and manner of death as pending. The other victims are 23-year-old Jennifer Van and sisters Nelie Turalba Ibarra and Lita Benigno. Since the tragedy a GoFundMe set up by the relatives of Lita and Cassius has raised over $16,000 which it claims 'will be used for any funeral and medical related expenses for all involved, and to support their families during this long road to recovery'. After the disaster, Hawaiis leaders intensified their calls to crack down on the state's vast illegal fireworks trade with stepped-up enforcement and greater penalties. A view of the home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Honolulu Shocking images from Hawaiian captured the explosion as it lit up the night sky in Hawaii on New Year's Eve Pcitrued: the relatives of the deceased toddler and Lita Bennigo. The family have set up a GoFundMe which has raised over $16,000 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. The person with the least has burns over 45 per cent of their body while the most has burns over nearly 80 per cent of their body. Each of the six is using a breathing tube and five are in medically induced comas. 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. The third victim was named as Jennifer Van (pictured) Sisters Nelie and Lita were killed in the illegal fireworks display on Tuesday night during the New Year's Eve celebration 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, ValleywiseHealth, are providing housing for patient relatives. Some burn center employees have even volunteered their homes, Foster said. 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. Fireworks debris is seen outside the home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia) '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. 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. Luigi Mangione is unlikely to face court for at least another month after prosecutors and lawyers agreed to a last-minute delay. The earliest the accused killer of UnitedHealtcare CEO Brian Thompson will return to Manhattan Criminal Court is mid-February, with prosecutors and defense attorneys asking for more time to prepare the case for trial. The lawyers agreed in a letter to the court that the deadline to bring an indictment against Mangione can be extended from January 18 to February 17. Mangione, 26, is now charged in a criminal complaint, a document that is lodged against individuals prior to the return of an indictment. Prosecutors said they consulted with the defense and agreed that extending the deadline was necessary "to permit both parties adequate preparation for pretrial proceedings and the trial itself." Lawyers for Mangione and federal prosecutors declined to comment. The case is unusual because at least one charge carries the possibility of the death penalty, but whether to pursue that penalty must be made by the Justice Department in Washington, where top officials will be changed as President-elect Donald Trump takes office later this month. Mangione arrives at Manhattan Criminal Court accused of shooting UnitedHealthcare chief executive Brian Thompson. Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealth Group executive Brian Thompson, sits during his federal court hearing in New York City UnitedHealthcare's CEO Brian Thompson who was shot and killed in an apparent targeted attack as he was en-route to to attend UnitedHealthcare's annual investor conference in New York Authorities say Mangione fatally shot Thompson on December 4 as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. The killing shocked the business community and galvanized some health insurance critics. Mangione posted frequently online about his struggles with back pain, though he was never a UnitedHealthcare client. Federal charges against Mangione include murder and firearms counts. He made an initial appearance on the charges late last month. He won't be required to enter a plea until an indictment is returned. Mangione has pleaded not guilty in a New York state court to multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. His next appearance in state court is scheduled for February 21. The maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Mangione was arrested December 9 in a Pennsylvania McDonalds following a five-day search. He's being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean "Diddy" Combs and cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. The U.S. has reportedly launched prisoner-swap talks with the Taliban to bring home Americans held in Afghanistan for a terror suspect believed to have been an associate of the former Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden. Muhammad Rahim al Afghani has been held without charge or trial at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp since 2008. In November, the Biden administration told the Taliban it would release him if Afghan's rulers freed George Glezmann, Ryan Corbett, and Mahmoud Habibi, according to the Wall Street Journal. The three were seized in 2022. The Taliban quickly made a counteroffer, saying they wanted Rahim and two other prisoners in exchange for Glezmann and Corbett. They deny holding Habibi, who once worked for the ousted Afghan government but was working for a private company when the Taliban swept to power in 2021. The negotiations illustrate the dilemma facing Washington and other foreign government: Negotiate with a pariah state or leave nationals languishing in Afghan detention. Biden has not made a decision on the Taliban proposal, according to attendees of a classified meeting of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, which was briefed by National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. The panel's chair, Rep. Michael McCaul (R., Texas), reportedly warned against the deal. Muhammad Rahim al Afghani has been held without charge or trial for 19 years and is currently detained at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp George Glezmann, a 65-year-old airline mechanic from Georgia, was detained in 2022 while visiting Afghanistan as a tourist Rahim is the last Afghan held at Guantanamo Bay, and is often described as a 'forever prisoner' after multiple review boards declined to recommend him for release. Pakistani media reported that he was captured in the city of Lahore in 2007, before being turned over to the U.S. He was described as one of bin Laden's most trusted aides and a procurement specialist, claims he has always denied. 'He had advance knowledge of many of al-Qaeda's major attacks, including advanced knowledge of 9/l I, and progressed to paying for, planning, and participating in attacks in Afghanistan against US and Coalition targets by al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and other anti-Coalition militant groups,' is how his Guantanamo Detainee Profile, produced by the Periodic Review Secretariat, puts it. His release may be particularly damaging to Washington. He was the last detainee to go through the the CIA's 'Rendition, Detention and Interrogation' program that included sleep deprivation and other treatments later defined as torture. His release would present fresh political trouble for a president whose foreign policy chops took a battering after the disastrous 2021 withdrawal. Sean Savett, a National Security Council spokesman, said: 'The safety and security of Americans overseas is one of the Biden-Harris Administrations top priorities, and we are working around the clock to ensure George, Ryan and Mahmouds safe return.' Ryan Corbett, a 40-year-old father of three, who ran NGOs in Afghanistan, had returned to the country in 2022 to pay and train staff when he was snatched. Seen here with his wife Anna Mahmoud Habibi, an Afghan-American businessman, was taken while working for the Asia Consultancy Group, a Kabul-based telecommunications company Glezmann, a 65-year-old airline mechanic from Georgia, was detained in 2022 while visiting as a tourist. Corbett, a 40-year-old father of three, who ran NGOs in Afghanistan, had returned to the country in 2022 to pay and train staff when he was snatched. Habibi, an Afghan-American businessman, was taken in a separate incident. At the time he was working for the Asia Consultancy Group, a Kabul-based telecommunications company. A Trump transition spokesman said the incoming president was committed to securing the release of all American hostages. 'Things will only get worse for any hostage taker once President Trump assumes office,' said Brian Hughes. The father of a baby who was allegedly abused by a nurse in a Virginia hospital's neonatal intensive care unit has revealed the one trait that all seven victims share. Dominique Hackey's son Noah suffered an unexplained tibia fracture while in the NICU at the Henrico County Doctors' Hospital in Richmond in September 2023. The hospital shut down its NICU last month after launching an internal investigation into incidents of 'unexplainable fractures' suffered by at least seven newborn patients in 2023 and 2024. Hackey, whose son's case is currently under investigation by police, says that there only appears to be one common thread in all the cases - the gender of the victims. 'There were all different injuries, and two boys had multiple injuries,' he told Fox News Tuesday, adding that the victims' parents 'can't find a pattern of why our babies, other than that, they were just boys.' Registered nurse 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. 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 now investigating the incidents of abuse against all seven babies, including Noah Hackey. Dominique Hackey's son Noah suffered an unexplained tibia fracture while in the NICU at the Henrico County Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia in September 2023. Noah is pictured in the NICU 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 Pictured: An X-ray of the fracture to Noah's leg that was provided by his father Dominique Hackey 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. '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 I'm like, I don't want them to turn it around on us and say we broke his leg or anything like that so I was like no, we don't 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. Dominique Hackey, (pictured) whose son's case is currently under investigation by police, says that there only appears to be one common thread in all the cases - the gender of the victims 'That's 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. 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.' 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 At her hearing Friday, 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. '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. 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. An aviation expert has revealed two stowaways who died inside a JetBlue plane's wheel compartment likely froze to death. The bodies were found in the landing gear area of a flight which landed in Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport in Florida on Monday. The plane had travelled from JFK Airport in New York and the stowaways were found during a 'routine' post-flight maintenance check. Now Gary Sheradsky, a pilot with 30 years experience, has revealed that the duo likely died an 'unbelievable' death, due to the arctic temperatures and lack of oxygen at altitude. 'How cold it is outside the plane is how cold it is in the wheel well,' Sheradsky, 62, told the Miami Herald. 'It was definitely below zero. 'You lose all sense of reality. It's probably an unbelievable way to die.' Temperatures at 40,000 feet where planes typically cruise normally hover between -40F to -70F, according to Airplane Academy. Aviation expert Gary Sheradsky has revealed two stowaways who died inside a JetBlue plane 's wheel compartment likely froze to death This JetBlue flight was found to have two dead bodies in its wheel well after flying from New York's JFK Airport to Fort Lauderdale International Airport Monday night And while the plane's cabin is pressurized, the wheel well would not have been meaning there is considerably less oxygen. Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials began to investigate the deaths. Spokesperson Carey Codd told DailyMail.com that both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. Codd added that autopsies are set to be performed and that the investigation is ongoing but was unable to offer victim identities or further detail. The plane, operating flight 1801, departed JFK Airport Monday just before 8pm, flight tracking data showed. The aircraft landed in Fort Lauderdale three hours later. It is unclear at exactly what time officials found the bodies in the landing gear compartment. JetBlue told DailyMail.com: 'On Monday evening, January 6, at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, two individuals were found in the landing gear compartment of one of our aircraft during the routine post-flight maintenance inspection. Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials carried out their investigation into two bodies found in the wheel well of a JetBlue airplane 'Tragically, both individuals were deceased. At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation. 'This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred.' Rideshare service, Lyft, is under fire after deleting a tone-deaf advertisement offering New York City riders a reimbursement on the city's new controversial congestion fee it reportedly lobbied for. On January 5th, New York became the first city in the nation to institute a fee for cars entering the central business district, quite to the dismay of many Big Apple and metro residents. Lyft took the new policy as an opportunity to launch an ad campaign, heroically offering relief from the fee. However, the ad was immediately inundated with furious comments, highlighting the ride share app's own role in advocating for the congestion fees. In a now-deleted ad, the company showed the POV of a person riding in a back of a car through the city with an on-screen caption reading: 'We're here for you, New Yorkers. 'And through the end of January, we're crediting back the city's new congestion fee on every ride.' The ad was swiftly removed from the Lyft Tiktok account after the negative responses kept pouring in. For those traveling by Lyft or Uber, a new $1.50 congestion surcharge - in addition the existing $2.75 fee that already goes to the MTA - will be added to rides that enter the Central Business District (CBD), which covers roughly half of Manhattan. Rideshare service, Lyft, is under fire after deleting a tone-deaf advertisement offering New York City riders a reimbursement on the city's new controversial congestion fee it reportedly lobbied for For those traveling by Lyft or Uber, a new $1.50 congestion surcharge - in addition the existing $2.75 fee that already goes to the MTA - will be added to rides that enter the Central Business District (CBD), which covers roughly half of Manhattan. In January, Lyft will reimburse the fee In a now-deleted ad, the company showed the POV of a person riding in a back of a car through the city with an on-screen caption reading: 'We're here for you, New Yorkers' Throughout January, the pink rideshare company is offering its riders a reimbursement of the $1.50 charge that can be used toward another Lyft ride or Citi Bike trip, according to the company. The credit is only good for one week. For Ubers and Lyfts to recoup the $9 congestion daily fee, drivers would only need to perform six rides a day in the zone - 12 for taxis, whose passengers only pay a $0.75 fee per ride through the CBD. Despite the small number of rides needed, each ride through the CBD for taxis and other rideshares will be charged the additional fee - quite to the fury of riders who feel betrayed by the companies. Uber and Lyft reportedly lobbied government officials heavily to enact congestion pricing, as they are set to make millions, according to the New York Post. The prices to rent a Citi Bike - which is owned by Lyft - also rose on Monday - the fourth year in a row the company has increased its rates. Bikes are not subject to the congestion fee. 'Read this as: We will be taking $1.50 more from the driver's pockets,' one angry X user wrote. 'Also, don't forget that Lyft, Uber and other TNC's [Transportation Network Company] lobbied for this.' Another argued the January reimbursement is only going to 'keep those roads clogged, Lyft.' 'Often missed in the Congestion Pricing plan is that Lyft and Uber get in FREE,' another argued. 'Only $1.50 paid by passenger. This plan isn't about traffic, or limiting cars, it's about eliminating private car ownership, and handing the streets over to the apps.' A fourth claimed: 'They're directly responsible for over 60k additional cars per day in the city that simply didn't exist 10 years ago, and yet their drivers can come and go as they please waiting for fares at no charge. It's ridiculous.' A fifth wrote: 'And Uber and Lyft lobbied for the congestion tax because they believe it will force more people to use their services. It's a prime - and disgusting - example of crony capitalism.' Some riders feel betrayed as Lyft and Uber reported lobbied the government for the congestion fee that will help make them millions Despite the company's decision to remove the ad in question, Lyft has not given up on the campaign altogether - it is still advertising the promotion on their social media, claiming they have the 'remedy' to congestion pricing. In another video, it encourages riders to use their service again by using the credits they receive through the reimbursement, which directly contradicts what the congestion fee is suppose to help promote - the use of public transit. 'Our goal isnt to undercut the Citys efforts to reduce congestion, and funding public transportation is a good thing,' it said in a press release. 'But when we put ourselves in riders shoes, we also understand its grown more and more expensive to live in and visit NYC, so we consider this a small gesture to help people adjust to another new expense - even as we work to reduce the overall cost of rides.' The company also claimed in the statement that it lobbied for those living below 96th Street in Manhattan to not be charged the additional congestion fee as they already pay the $2.75 fee. 'New Yorkers of all incomes rely on rideshare for commutes, job interviews, doctors appointments, and other important trips,' it said in a press release. A daily congestion fee for those traveling by car below 60th Street in Manhattan took effect on Sunday, quite to the dismay of many Big Apple and metro residents 'But rides in NYC are among the most expensive in the country, partially due to all the government-imposed taxes and fees riders have to pay before even stepping into a vehicle. 'Call it one small step towards our New Years resolution to help make rideshare in NYC more affordable.' On top of the congestion fee - which is supposed to help repair NYC's public transit system - MTA prices are also expected to rise prices from $2.90 to $3 per ride come August. Diddy is furious that alleged CEO murderer Luigi Mangione is seen as a bigger star by inmates at the Brooklyn federal prison where both are locked up, it's claimed. The rapper, 54, and Mangione, 26, are both awaiting trial at Brooklyn's infamous Metropolitan Center in New York, and Diddy - real name Sean Combs - is reportedly raging that the alleged killer is more beloved than he is among inmates. 'Diddy has been throwing tantrums over the fact that Luigi is getting all of the attention in prison and is being revered as a hero after literally murdering someone on camera,' the source said. Diddy is reportedly upset because he claims he is innocent of sex trafficking yet he continues getting 'so much hate inside the lock up while Luigi gets so much love.' 'Even in prison, Diddys ego is bigger than life,' the source added. A spokesperson for Diddy said the claims about the rapper's jealousy were 'false'. Mangione is apparently 'loved by the prisoners and is not having a difficult time dealing with everything because he has gotten so much support with prisoners who have shared their stories of losing loved ones due to inadequate healthcare.' 'Not to mention the fact that the prison, itself, faces constant allegations of inadequate healthcare to those who are locked up,' the source told DailyMail.com. Sean 'Diddy' Combs is reportedly jealous that alleged killer Luigi Mangione (pictured) is beloved at the Brooklyn jail where they are both awaiting trial Diddy is upset because he claims he is innocent but fellow inmates don't seem to agree, a source told DailyMail.com Brooklyn's notorious Metropolitan Center is pictured. It is also where Jeffrey Epstein died While Diddy and Mangione share a legal team, they have not crossed paths in the prison, as the alleged assassin remains in solitary confinement while the rapper is with the general population. Diddy has not had any contact with Luigi Mangione despite sharing the same legal team,' the source said. 'They do not spend time together and the two really have zero in common.' Brooklyn's Metropolitan Center also holds other high-profile inmates such as Sam Bankman-Fried. It is also the jail where notorious sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein killed himself. Officials say Mangione fatally shot UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompsonon December 4 as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. The killing shocked the business community and galvanized some health insurance critics. Mangione posted frequently online about his struggles with back pain, though he was never a UnitedHealthcare client and notes found on him point to a targeted murder intended to send a message. He pleaded not guilty in a New York state court to multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione has sparked adoration among many who see him as a sort of vigilante Diddy, pictured in 2023,is awaiting charges of sex trafficking and prostitution in New York Federal charges against Mangione include murder and firearms counts. He made an initial appearance on the charges late last month. He wont be required to enter a plea until an indictment is returned. As DailyMail.com previously reported, Mangione is 'moved' by his newfound world fame and the fans lusting over him following Thompson's murder. A source close to Mangione said he is 'extremely aware of the massive fan base he has right now.' He was 'shocked and really choked up' when he first saw the support he has received, which 'gave him confidence and reassurance that he will be okay.' Meanwhile Diddy is awaiting his own trial for sex trafficking and prostitution charges. He has pleaded not guilty. He also faces a wave of sexual assault lawsuits, many of which were filed by a Texas attorney who says his firm represents over 150 people, both men and women, who allege sexual abuse and exploitation by the rapper. The lawsuits allege many individuals were abused at parties in New York, California and Florida after receiving drug-laced drinks. Vladimir Putin has today been seen with red eyes and a mystery bruise on his hand, fuelling further speculation of his deteriorating health. The Russian despot, who called a 15-year-old girl from Ukraine's Donetsk region as part of a nationwide charity campaign, was today seen with weary eyes and bruise on his hand. It is not known why the 72-year-old Russian leader has this bruise, but he is believed to have long been in ailing health. In November, strange footage showed Putin's legs twitching uncontrollably at a public event yesterday amid rumours he has Parkinson's disease. The 72-year-old Russian leader appeared unable to control his movements as he gave an hour-long speech at a podium in Astana, Kazakhstan. In the clip, the twitching seems to start in his left foot before affecting both his legs and feet. Putin then took a wider stance but continued to rock back onto his heels and move his legs. And back in October, the Kremlin was forced to rush out a statement denying Vladimir Putin has health problems after he admitted undergoing regular examinations at a top Moscow hospital. Vladimir Putin (pictured) was today seen calling a 15-year-old girl from Ukraine's Donetsk region called Arina Porkhal as part of the New Year Tree of Wishes nationwide charity campaign It is not known why the 72-year-old Russian leader has this bruise, but he is believed to have long been in ailing health Putin was seen with reddened eyes during his phone call The Russian dictator, 72, was speaking in a televised session with his health minister Mikhail Murashko aimed at encouraging people to have flu jabs. 'Doctors at the Central Clinical Hospital, where I undergo all sorts of regular examinations, also recommend getting vaccinated with domestically produced drugs,' said Putin. This evidently led to speculation over the despot's medical condition - which his aides acted quickly to quash. State news agency TASS was deployed to insist that Putin 'has no health problems' as it emphasised his visits to a hospital known as the Kremlin Clinic were for normal check-ups. His spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: 'He meant routine medical examinations.' In a separate televised meeting on Wednesday, Putin - who is rumoured to have undergone repeated botox treatments - appeared to be itching his face. Putin's health was the subject of intense speculation several years ago, and particularly at the time of the pandemic when he took exceptional security measures with officials routinely quarantining for two week or longer before seeing him. This also saw the advent of his notorious long table - when no-one was allowed to sit anywhere near him. A bloated Vladimir Putin has been seen gripping a table whilst slouching in his chair during a televised meeting with his former defence minister Sergei Shoigu in 2022 There has been a lot of speculation over the Russian leader's health in recent years. Pictured: Putin looked off-colour as he attended a press conference in Minsk back in May There has long been speculation over the despot's medical condition The Kremlin was forced to deny Vladimir Putin, 72, has health issues after he said he undergoes 'all sorts of regular examinations' at Moscow's elite Central Clinical Hospital There were reports of him coughing incessantly, and his hands and feet making seemingly involuntary jerky movements. On several occasions, he appeared to walk with a limp. Rumours focused on several types of cancer and Parkinson's Disease. Leaks suggested he regularly travelled with a cancer surgeon in attendance while observers noted lengthy and mysterious absences from view, with 'canned' - pre-recorded - meetings broadcast to give the impression he was actively working. A mother lay dead in a restaurant's disabled toilet for three days before her body was discovered, her heartbroken daughter has claimed. Jade Casey, 27, says her mother Sabrina Marlynn Lyttle, 47, was found dead at The Gurkha Buffet Restaurant, Hotel and Bar in Blackpool, Lancashire. Sabrina's mother Christine, 68, and Jade say they are unsure why she went into the toilet but said nobody from the restaurant realised that she was in there for three days. She says she now feels 'heartbroken' knowing that her mum was in the disabled toilet while people were eating and drinking. Jade said: 'The police have told us that customers were complaining that they couldn't get into the toilet, but they assumed something had happened with the lock. 'They then opened up the disabled toilet and found her on the Saturday morning. 'I'm angry because she could have been found sooner, they should have done the usual toilet checks. 'It's heartbreaking because we know she was left in the cold, on her own. A mother lay dead in a restaurant's disabled toilet for three days before her body was discovered, her heartbroken daughter has claimed Jade Casey, 27, says her mother Sabrina Marlynn Lyttle, 47, was found dead at The Gurkha Buffet Restaurant, Hotel and Bar in Blackpool, Lancs (Jade pictured as a baby with her mother) The Gurkha Buffet Restaurant, Hotel and Bar in Blackpool, Lancs, where Sabrina was found dead 'I know she was dead but it's the fact she was there while people were eating and drinking. 'We don't know the cause of death yet but there's part of us that thought she might have been struggling and needed help and then could have been saved.' Jade said that CCTV footage showed Sabrina, of Blackpool, Lancs, entering the restaurant on November 28 last year and going into the disabled toilet. She said that they 'aren't sure' why she decided to go into the restaurant but police said that there were no drugs at the scene. Jade said: 'There weren't any drugs at the scene and CCTV footage showed her entering the building on the Thursday. 'We think she broke into the disabled toilet - we think she picked the lock to get in so she didn't have to ask for a key. 'We aren't sure of the circumstances of why she went in, it could have been to get warm because she had been released from prison the day before. 'We really aren't sure but there weren't any drugs at the scene.' Jade, of Fleetwood, Lancs, has also paid tribute to her mum - describing her as a 'really nice person' who was 'funny and kind'. Jade and Sabrina's mum Christine, 68, say they are unsure why she went into the toilet but said nobody from the restaurant realised that she was in there for three days (Sabrina pictured with her mother Christine) Jade says she now feels 'heartbroken' knowing that her mum was in the disabled toilet while people were eating and drinking (Jade pictured as a baby with her mother Sabrina) Jade said that CCTV footage showed Sabrina, of Blackpool, Lancs, entering the restaurant on November 28 last year and going into the disabled toilet (Pictured: Sabrina Marlynn Lyttle) She said: 'She suffered with addiction and she was in and out of homelessness for the last 25 years but she was a really nice person. She was funny and she was kind.' A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: 'We were called at shortly after 1pm on Saturday, November 30th to a report of a sudden death at an address on Waterloo Road in Blackpool. 'Officers attended and sadly the body of a woman in her 40s was found dead inside the address. 'Our thoughts are with her loved ones at this time. 'The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for HM Coroner.' MailOnline has approached The Gurkha Buffet Restaurant, Hotel and Bar for comment. The real-life inspiration for the villain of stalker drama Baby Reindeer has hit out at the shows success in Americas Golden Globes. The hit Netflix production supposedly a true story tells of Scottish comedian Richard Gadds ordeal at the hands of an obsessed lawyer, called Martha on screen. British actress Jessica Gunning won a Golden Globe award as best supporting actress in a TV series for playing Martha, while the show itself won Best Television Limited Series. But unemployed Scottish lawyer Fiona Harvey who is suing Netflix for 130million over what she says are multiple lies in Baby Reindeer, depicting her as a twice-jailed sick stalker has slammed the stars shown celebrating at the glitzy award ceremony in Los Angeles. She noted with relish that Gadd who also claimed in the series that he had been raped by an unidentified figure in the UK comedy world - had not won a Golden Globe best actor award. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Miss Harvey, 59, said: Well Gadd lost best actor didnt he? He cant act, he cant be a comedian, he didnt write she show, a number of Netflix writers wrote the show. And I think the media should concentrate on Who is the rapist?. 'Real-life' Baby Reindeer stalker Fiona Harvey (pictured on Piers Morgan: Uncensored) has hit out at the actress who played her branding her a 'c**p actress' Ms Harvey slammed the glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles after Jessica Gunning (pictured) won Best Supporting Actress in a TV series for her portrayal of Martha Scott Im not the rapist Im just stuck in the middle of all of bloody-well this, feeling ghastly, physically sick. Speaking of her award-winning on-screen alter ego Ms Gunning, Miss Harvey went on: I think she is a c**p actress. I think she knew exactly what she was doing, a woman sitting there vilifying another woman who has done nothing. Im not very happy about this at all. The show also won Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series beating Disclaimer, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, The Penguin, Ripley and True Detective: Night Country. But Ms Harvey, who claims to have only had a passing acquaintance with Gadd after she went into a Camden pub he was working in a decade ago, and to have no stalking convictions, branded it's acclaim 'a load of drivel'. I've already put my life on hold for a year. I can't do that anymore. 'Baby Reindeer is a lie.' The show is said to be based on the real-life experiences of comedian and writer Gadd. After the show was aired, he asked viewers not to speculate over the real people who inspired the series. Gunning, Richard Gadd, and Nava Mau, winners of the Best Television Limited Series for Baby Reindeer, during the Golden Globes held in Beverly Hills, California - January 5, 2025 Gadd appearing in Baby Reindeer as comedian Donny Dunn who is stalked by Martha Scott (Gunning) after he serves her a free cup of tea in the pub where he works Ms Harvey filed a lawsuit in the US last June and has accused Netflix of spreading 'brutal lies', including that she is a 'twice-convicted stalker who was sentenced to five years in prison'. She is claiming for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, gross negligence, and violations of her right of publicity. Speaking to BBC News last year, Ms Harvey said she was certain that Netflix would lose the case and added: 'I have no doubt about that. Otherwise, we wouldn't be doing it. We think we are going to win.' The lawsuit, filed at the Californian federal court, states: 'Defendants told these lies, and never stopped, because it was a better story than the truth, and better stories made money. 'As a result of defendants' lies, malfeasance and utterly reckless misconduct, Harvey's life had been ruined.' The court documents allege Netflix 'did literally nothing' to confirm that the story represented was true, stating that Harvey 'has never been convicted of any crime and has never been to prison'. The lawsuit seeks actual damages and compensatory damages at $50million (39million) each; punitive damages at $20million (16million); as well as 'all profits' from Baby Reindeer at $50 million (39million). This totals 133million. Ms Harvey also claims that she is being bombarded with hate from around the world because of how Martha is portrayed in the Netflix hit. She asserts that she never stalked Gadd, did not sexually assault him, nor was she ever convicted of stalking. Ms Harvey alleges that Netflix led viewers to believe that fictional elements of the show were factual. It was previously revealed exclusively in the Mail that the show's writer, Gadd, who plays himself and based the premise on his own experiences, told makers Clerkenwell Films that his stalker was never convicted. Sources indicate that Gadd told Clerkenwell that the stalker was the subject of an 'exclusion order' a civil order and not the same as a criminal conviction of stalking. Gadd, winner of the Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series for Baby Reindeer, poses during the Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on September 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California Gunning (pictured in the show) scooped the prize for Best Supporting Female Actor at the American award ceremony This means that the show was always a fictionalized dramatization though it went out under a banner which read 'this is a true story'. Netflix executive, Benjamin King, previously told a Commons committee that Gadd had suffered at the hands of 'a convicted stalker'. It's not clear how Clerkenwell Films described the situation to Netflix, or what compliance procedures were undertaken. Gadd previously said Martha's identity was so well disguised that she would not recognize herself but internet sleuths swiftly identified Ms Harvey as Martha. The trial is due to take place in California, in front of Judge Gary Klausner, in May 2025. Various activities held across China to welcome upcoming Laba Festival Xinhua) 08:52, January 07, 2025 Volunteers serve free Laba porridge for sanitation workers in Haigang District of Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua) Staff members serve Laba porridge for passengers at Hefei South Railway Station in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu) Staff members serve Laba porridge for passengers at Hefei South Railway Station in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu) A teacher explains the knowledge of making Laba porridge to children at a kindergarten in Huai'an, east China's Jiangsu Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Yin Chao/Xinhua) Children learn to make Laba garlic, a vinegar-preserved green and slightly spicy dish, at a kindergarten in Qiaoxi District, Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) Children paint garlic-themed toys at a kindergarten in Changxing County, Huzhou of east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Tan Yunfeng/Xinhua) Residents receive Laba porridge in Wuxing District of Huzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Yi Fan/Xinhua) A staff member serves free Laba porridge for citizens at a market in Ganzhou District of Zhangye, northwest China's Gansu Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Chen Li/Xinhua) Students draw festive patterns on a blackboard at a middle school in Zunhua, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Liu Mancang/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Washington/New Delhi, Jan 7 (UNI) US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval during their talks in New Delhi yesterday discussed efforts to address national security concerns associated with overcapacity in key technology sectors, and also noted the progress made to address long-standing barriers to bilateral strategic trade, technology, and industrial cooperation. The Biden Administration released a Fact Sheet on the talks between the two NSAs and on the bilateral cooperation, titled The United States and India Committed to Strengthening Strategic Technology Partnership. NSAs Sullivan and Doval launched the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in 2022 at the direction of President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the intervening years, our two nations have taken significant steps forward together to integrate our technology and defense supply chains in recognition that, now more than ever, we need to work with our partners to build a trusted and resilient innovation base. During their capstone meeting, APNSA Sullivan and NSA Doval underscored the vital importance of our efforts to jointly produce and develop strategic technologies that will allow us to deliver secure, reliable, and cost-competitive technology solutions for the world. As the United States and India deepen collaboration across key sectors from space to semiconductors, biotechnology, cybersecurity, advanced telecommunications, and clean energy we have seen the promise of our partnership deliver results. Our partnership has also anchored multilateral work with like-minded nations from across the Indo-Pacific and Europe, including the Bio-5 Biopharmaceutical Supply Chain Consortium, the U.S.-India-ROK Technology Trilateral, and ongoing cooperation with Australia and Japan through the Quad. Finally, APNSA Sullivan and NSA Doval reaffirmed our shared resolve to adapt and strengthen our technology protection toolkits and discussed efforts to address national security concerns associated with overcapacity in key technology sectors. At the same time, they commended the progress we have made to address long-standing barriers to bilateral strategic trade, technology, and industrial cooperation. The two national security leaders expressed their confidence that the bridges we have built across our governments, industry, and academia will endure and be reflected on the significant achievements we have driven across every dimension of the technological enterprise from the seabed to the stars, and beyond. UNI RN Is this an unpaid tax bill I see before me? In the case of award-winning actress Cush Jumbo, 39, it certainly is. And a bankruptcy threat looms. The acclaimed performer, who last year appeared as Lady Macbeth alongside David Tennants Macbeth in Londons West End, was the subject of a bankruptcy hearing at Londons High Court yesterday. And it seemed the so-called Scottish plays famous curse was in operation in November when both stars fell ill simultaneously, leading to three cancellations shortly before it was revealed HMRC had filed a petition for bankruptcy against Ms Jumbo. At the time her spokesman insisted to the Mail on Sunday: This is a private matter, currently being resolved with HMRC. 'Cush is not, and has never been, at risk of bankruptcy.' This weeks hearing at the High Court told a different story after the HMRCs petition for her to be declared bankrupt led to a hearing in front of a judge. The HMRCs counsel, Jacquille Jarrett, however accepted a request from Ms Jumbos lawyer to adjourn the case for 12 weeks, to allow Miss Jumbo time to settle the debt. Ms Jumbos lawyer, a Mr Dawson, said: Miss Jumbo aims to have the debt paid off in full within a 12 week period. Cush Jumbo . 39 (pictured on September 18, 2022) was the subject of a bankruptcy hearing at London's High Court yesterday It comes only weeks after she appeared alongside David Tennant (pictured) as Lady Macbeth Her lawyers told the court the actress (pictured with ex-husband Sean Griffin) aimed to pay off the debt in a 12-week period. The case has been adjourned until April The case was adjourned until April. Ms Jumbo, raised in south-east London, has an OBE and rose to fame appearing in UK TV dramas Vera and Dr Who spinoff Torchwood, before lucrative roles in American series The Good Wife and The Good Fight. Her work on the London stage has secured repeated garlands, with a notable Olivier nomination for taking the lead, traditionally male, role in Hamlet. In 2023 however she endured a divorce from husband Sean Griffin, with who she shares a young son, and later said she would be glad to leave her 30s behind. A production company she started also had to be struck off in 2022 Ms Jumbo was not in court. Last night her spokeswoman did not respond to a request for comment. Labour minister Jess Phillips tonight hit back at Elon Musk for branding her a 'rape genocide apologist' amid the furious political row over grooming gangs. The controversial billionaire has recently launched a barrage of attacks on senior Labour figures - including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer - over the issue. In posts on his X social media site, the businessman has attacked Sir Keir's record on tackling grooming gangs from his time as the director of public prosecutions. He also blasted Ms Phillips for rejecting a request for the Government to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. But, in a series of TV interviews this evening, the Home Office minister branded Mr Musk's posts 'ridiculous' and claimed he 'knows absolutely nothing' about the subject. Ms Phillips also said that 'disinformation' spread by the tech mogul, thought to be the world's richest man, was 'endangering' her. But she vowed to 'suck it up' and added it was 'nothing' compared to the experiences of abuse victims. There has been a renewed focus on grooming gangs after the Government declined to commission an inquiry into sexual exploitation in Oldham, insisting it should be locally-led. Labour minister Jess Phillips tonight hit back at Elon Musk for branding her a 'rape genocide apologist' amid the furious political row over grooming gangs The controversial billionaire, a close ally of Donald Trump, has recently launched a barrage of attacks on senior Labour figures - including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer - over the issue Both the Tories and Reform UK have since demanded a fresh national inquiry, but Sir Keir has swiped at politicians 'calling for inquiries because they want to jump on a bandwagon of the far-Right'. Speaking to ITV News about Mr Musk's comments, which also included calling her an 'evil witch', Ms Phillips said: 'It's ridiculous isn't it? The things that he's saying are so ridiculous as to initially make me just go 'what'? 'But then you wake up with the realisation that that's millions of people that he has said that to and you feel immediately like this is going to turn my world upside down and I have to try and limit for how long that is the case. 'But you know, your immediate, my immediate thought was like just, it's sort of like, what a joke. And then the realisation of what this is probably going to mean for you.' She added: 'The thing that annoys me the most about it is it takes up so much bandwidth of my time from a man who knows absolutely nothing about the subject he's talking about. 'When the only thing I ever want to be doing is being able to use all of my brain power to focus on the hundreds of girls I have supported over the years who have been victims of grooming gangs and what needs to happen to make their lives better and to stop what is still happening today.' Mr Musk is a close ally of US President-elect Donald Trump and has been appointed to lead a new US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as part of the incoming administration in Washington DC. But Ms Phillips denied Labour's ongoing feud with Mr Musk could harm the Government's hopes of working together with Mr Trump when he takes office later this month. 'What Elon Musk says on Twitter about me, I don't think is in any way linked to the US government,' she said. Asked if the row with Mr Musk had made her question her future in politics, she added: 'The few days of madness is nothing compared to the decades sat in police stations with girls bleeding from a battering that they've taken from a grooming gang. 'So I'll put on my big girl pants and just suck it up.' Ms Phillips said she was 'apoplectic' that the previous Tory government had been 'so slow' to act on the recommendations of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, which reported in 2022. She also defended not holding a Home Office-led inquiry in Oldham by saying a locally-led inquiry in Telford was 'the only one that has ever done anything'. 'My instinct was to try and get for Oldham what I'd seen in Telford, which was locally led, a locally-led independent inquiry,' she said. In another interview with BBC Newsnight, Ms Phillips said that 'disinformation' spread by the South African-born businessman was 'endangering' her. But she added she was 'resigned to the lot in life that you get as a woman who fights violence against women and girls'. A stranger offered to carry an elderly woman's groceries before barricading her inside of her Oregon home and repeatedly raping her for three days over Christmas. Kenneth Gregory Williams, 69, was arrested after he allegedly approached the 74-year-old woman as she was returning home from the grocery store and offered to carry her bags back to her downtown Portland home on December 23. After returning to her home, he held her against her will and sexually assaulted her over the course of the three days surrounding Christmas. 'These cases are incredibly rare but of course they can happen,' Portland Police Department spokesman Mike Benner told Fox 12 News. 'We can't imagine what this woman went through. It's horrifying, terrifying, you name it.' The unidentified woman got off of public transportation at 9th Avenue and was heading home from the grocery store when she had to stop and rest from the weight of the bags. A 'nice' stranger, who detectives later identified as Williams, offered to help her carry her bags the rest of the way. Though reluctant at first, the woman agreed to the seemingly kind gesture - unaware that it would lead to a three-day nightmare. Kenneth Gregory Williams, 69, was arrested after he allegedly barricaded a 74-year-old woman inside her Oregon home and repeatedly raped her for three days after offering to carry her groceries on December 23 Williams allegedly approached the woman in downtown Portland and offered to carry her groceries after he noticed she was struggling from the weight Once inside the home, Williams allegedly blocked the door off from the inside and prevented her from leaving. The woman told authorities that over the span of the next three days, from December 23 to December 25, she was repeatedly raped by Williams. She was able to convince him to leave her home on December 26, when she sought immediate medical treatment at a local hospital. Portland officers located Williams on January 5 and booked him into the Multnomah County jail on charges of first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping and three counts of first-degree rape. The barbaric incident led to fear among community members, especially those who stroll through downtown Portland alone. 'I try not to be alone at night, I bring my dog with me, and I carry mace,' resident Tabitha Peterson told Fox 12. 'Mace is very important because you never know nowadays.' 'I'm overly aware in my surroundings sometimes,' Peterson added. 'It's better to be safe than sorry because I've been followed before and almost kidnapped once.' Authorities are also investigating Williams on allegations of an unrelated rape. The elderly woman was able get medical attention after convincing Williams to leave her home on December 26 Williams was booked into the Multnomah County jail and pled not guilty on charges of first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping and three counts of first-degree rape Additionally, detectives believe that there may be even more unreported cases involving the 69-year-old man - prompting them to publicly release his mugshot. They are urging anyone who may have been a victim or those with any additional information on Williams to contact Detective Michael Bledsoe at michael.bledsoe@police.portlandoregon.gov with the reference case number 24-332946. Williams appeared in Multnomah County Circuit Court on accusations of attacking the elderly woman on Monday and pled not guilty to all counts. Prosecutors asked Judge Christopher Ramras to schedule a preventative detention hearing on Tuesday, where a judge will decide whether Williams should remain in jail as the trial is pending, Oregon Live reported. Williams is set to be arraigned on the indictment on January 14. 'This is a case where this man had bad intentions and he took advantage of a woman who simply wanted help,' Benner told Fox 12. The December incident isn't the first time Williams has run into issues with the law. According to court records, he was previously arrested in June of 2014 for misdemeanor harassment and menacing, Fox 12 reported. The horrifying incident comes just two months after a 63-year-old man was accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old runaway in downtown Portland In 2008, he was arrested again for coercion and tampering with a witness. Additionally, Williams had multiple drug-related, robbery and/or misdemeanor crime arrests between the years of 1994 and 2008. The horrifying incident comes just months after a 63-year-old man was accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old runaway girl in downtown Portland, Oregon Live reported. The teenage victim, who told police she had run away from home, lost her in early October phone while trying to find her boyfriend who typically stayed in shelters. George Dee Moon, 63, allegedly saw the young girl crying and took her back to his apartment building after befriending her, promising that he'd help find her boyfriend. Moon claimed that he was in his 30s, and the girl responded with her real age - believing that he was an 'old man' who wouldn't harm her. She ultimately fell asleep on his bed and woke up to Moon yelling at her that she was the 'devil.' When she got up to leave, Moon allegedly restrained her, pulled her clothes off and sexually assaulted her while she pleaded for him to stop. The teen was able to escape his apartment at around 2.15am, when she told a manager and a security guard at the front desk that she'd been raped before asking for a cab. The manager of the apartment building told investigators that they had received several similar reports involving Moon, but the teenage girl was the first victim willing to speak to police regarding her assault. A British soldier was killed when he rested his chin on a gun he didn't know was loaded at the end of a shooting course, an inquiry has ruled. Lance Corporal Joe Spencer of 3rd Battalion The Rifles sadly died aged just 24 at RAF Tain, Scotland in November 2016. Originally from Hampshire, Spencer, who later moved to Edinburgh, joined the Army in 2011 and had served in Afghanistan before his 'avoidable' and untimely death. The tragedy triggered a widespread investigation involving around 30 detectives after the soldier suffered a severe and fatal head injury. An inquiry held at Tain Sheriff Court has now concluded the death could have been avoided. Sheriff Gary Aitken said Spencer had made an 'utterly inexplicable failure' by not completing an unload drill at the end of the shooting course and was unaware the weapon was still loaded as he rested it on his chin before it discharged. In a 206 page written judgment, the Sheriff ruled there were no defects in any system of working and that no individual on the course had acted with 'malice or recklessness' in the lead up to the fatal incident and made no recommendations. The inquiry had heard there were concerns over procedures on the day but that changes had been made by the Army in the aftermath. Lance Corporal Joe Spencer, of 3rd Battalion The Rifles, died aged just 24 at RAF Tain in Scotland in November 2016 Police speak to a driver as they arrive at the gate to RAF Tain, a weapons firing range, after local media reported that a member of the armed forces had died in a training excercise Police stand close to RAF Tain, north of Inverness as they investigate the tragic death of Spencer Mr Aitken said: 'In isolation each of the decisions is relatively innocuous, with the exception of LCpl Spencer's utterly inexplicable failure to complete the unloading drill for the rifle. 'It is with the benefit of hindsight that the consequences of these decisions can be seen clearly. These decisions are not inevitably linked, in the manner of links in a chain or dominoes in a row, leading to an inevitable, predictable consequence. 'It is to be hoped that the danger of holding a loaded rifle vertically under one's chin would be obvious to anyone and certainly it would be obvious to experienced soldiers. 'However, there is nothing in the evidence to suggest that anyone knew that the rifle was loaded. Quite the reverse.' The judgment added: 'He was clearly a much loved son, brother and partner and a very highly regarded soldier, both by his peers and his senior officers. 'It is clear from the evidence that I have heard that he was a young man of extraordinary determination and strength of character, committed to the service of others. He appears to have epitomised the regimental motto of the Rifle - "Swift and Bold".' An earlier Service Inquiry report published by the Defence Safety Authority said there had been a 'series of errors, shortfalls and poor judgement' during the sniper training course that the soldier was taking part in. The report said there had been lower levels of supervision throughout the course and specifically on the day of the soldier's death and made a number of recommendations for the future. Spencer's family said that an earlier report had left them upset and raised unanswered questions Sheriff Gary Aitken said Spencer had made an 'utterly inexplicable failure' by not completing an unload drill at the end of the shooting course It also concluded that his death of Spencer - who had also taken part in exercises in Kenya and the US as part of his training - was an 'avoidable accident'. Spencer's family said the earlier report had left them upset and raised unanswered questions. They added: 'It is clear to us that the individuals responsible for delivering the sniper training course did not do so in accordance with the mandated course syllabus and requisite rules and regulations. 'We strongly believe Joe would still be with us today if they had.' The training exercise during which the incident happened had involved around 20 personnel. Officers said at the time they were keeping 'a very open mind' over the cause of the event. It came just over two months after a soldier was shot dead during a live-firing exercise at Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland. Private Conor McPherson, 24, a member of The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, was killed on August 22. Officers said at the time they were keeping 'a very open mind' over the cause of the event that led to Spencer's death Police speak to a driver as they arrive at the gate to RAF Tain, a weapons firing range, after local media reported a member of the armed forces had died The training facility where the tragedy involving Spencer occurred was in use at the time by the RAF and the Army. It had a rifle range and a small arms range as well as bombing ranges for aircraft. It was also used by US and other NATO air forces for bombing and strafing practice, with 18 separate targets suitable for a variety of weapons and different delivery methods. The Army has been contacted for comment. Residents across Richmond, Virginia have been left desperate for water after a power outage caused by snow and ice hit the city's main facility. The city was placed under an immediate boil water advisory on January 6 afternoon after about 230,000 people reported experiencing very low water pressure. The Department of Public Utilities asked those affected to boil water before consuming it - despite there being none coming from the taps. While the city managed to restored production earlier today, Richmond locals are being advised to continue boiling their water and conserve as pressure builds back up. The advisory is expected to last approximately another 48 hours due to required testing. 'I've spent the last five hours at the water plant with our teams as they make steady progress on restoring water services to our City. I'm hopeful that we'll have more to share soon, and I appreciate your continued patience,' said Mayor Danny Avula. However, the sudden loss of water for over a day has left many residents frustrated as they frantically buy bottled water in bulk - if they can find it. 'Hello from Richmond, Virginia where my entire area currently has no running water happy polar vortex to all who celebrate,' one X user sarcastically said. Residents across Richmond, Virginia have been left desperate for water after a power outage caused by snow and ice hit the city's main facility 'I've spent the last five hours at the water plant with our teams as they make steady progress on restoring water services to our City. I'm hopeful that we'll have more to share soon, and I appreciate your continued patience,' said Mayor Danny Avula 'Richmond, Virginia sent out an advisory to drink water only if it is boiled. The crazy thing is I always go home and binge drink water from the sink. So if the message is late that explains why I have been feeling weird for days and I only just saw this,' another concerned local revealed. While one demanded to know: 'It is 2025 and the entire city of Richmond, Virginia is without water. WTF??? Where are all those rich folks when something like this is happening?' 'Richmond hasn't had water for 24+ hours and people still aren't going for the Dasani,' another joked while sharing a picture of nearly-empty grocery store water aisle. 'Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink! We are 6 days into 2025 and there's no water coming out of the taps in Richmond, VA, a water main break flooded parts of downtown Bethesda, MD, the aquifer in Cape Coral, FL, is critically low... Is this thing on? Bueller? Bueller?,' a raging X user tweeted. One shockingly said: 'I'm from Richmond Va where everyone finds out the water system is broken through Reddit hours before the city puts out a statement 'If you listen closely you can hear the sound of every journalist in Richmond filing FOIA requests to see when the city first learned about the water issue and how long it took them to tell the public,' another added. A local also shared a picture of a notice displayed on their local grocery store and empty vending machine with the caption: 'All is well in Richmond. Just have to boil the water (I don't have water)'. Some residents have also shared videos of how they are storing water - with many filling up their bathtubs. The city was placed under an immediate boil water advisory on January 6 afternoon after about 230,000 people reported experiencing very low water pressure A Virginia-based TikToker who goes by @marygracerotter_ shared clips of brimming jugs, bottles and jars stored in her fridge A Virginia-based TikToker who goes by @marygracerotter_ shared clips of brimming jugs, bottles and jars stored in her fridge. TikToker @aalyhsia also showed her followers that her local store had run out of water bottles, and shared how she was able to find some. Mayor Avula had previously said that the city was working to get water supplies to vulnerable populations, such as in shelters, hospitals and senior living centers. When asked why his office had not informed locals of what had occurred earlier in time for them to prepare, he said: 'We really were trying to get things up and running yesterday so that we could avoid the boil-water advisory altogether. 'I'm sorry that we weren't able to provide a little more buffer.' According to a city spokesperson, the power disruption which was caused by an icy storm led to issues with the plant's uninterrupted power supply. This lead to flooding in the filter gallerycrucial for the water treatment process. It is a windswept island off Scotlands north west coast where your only neighbour would be thousands of seabirds. But now an opportunity has come up for someone to take up the job as a manager of the island of Handa with accommodation provided and a salary of 25k per year. The Scottish Wildlife Trust is seeking a ranger on the island, which home to one of the most important seabird breeding colonies in Europe. Located off the west coast of Sutherland, the island has dramatic cliff views, and is accessible via an on-demand pedestrian ferry from Tarbet. Accommodation for the role will be provided for the length of the contract - and the role is also available to couples who intend to share the role and live together. The set up will include weekly trips to the remote village of Scourie, on the mainland, for laundry, banking, and shopping. According to the job listing, the Handa Island Ranger would effectively manage the beautiful remote island. The successful applicant will be responsible for organising work programs and a team of volunteers. They will also be in charge of looking after Handas wildlife and its 8,000 annual visitors. A beach on the island looking out across the Sound of Handa, Sutherland A view of the Handa cliffs on the Handa Island Wildlife Reserve The remote bothy on island of Handa Guillemots on Handa Island The island has no permanent residents, so the opportunity would suit someone who is content living away from the hustle and bustle of a city. No particular qualifications have been requested for the role, but a sound knowledge of marine and terrestrial natural history is beneficial. A current driving license and access to a vehicle are also necessary. The position is on a fixed six-month contract starting in March, and comes with a salary of 25,000. The job listing states: The Trust is a passionate employer, proactive about creating a culture of diversity and inclusive workplace that promotes and values equal opportunities for all. We welcome individuals from all networks of life, backgrounds, and experiences. Handa is a globally recognised breeding site for birds such as guillemots, razorbills, and great skuas. It offers stunning views of the north-west coast of Scotland and its characteristic Torridonian sandstone mountains. The islands dramatic cliffs offer spectacular sea views and the chance to spot marine species like minke whales, bottlenose and Rissos dolphins, grey seals, and even orcas and basking sharks off the west coast. The closing date for applications is 8 January, with interviews taking place around 16 January. Donald Trump warned 'all hell will break loose' in the Middle East if Hamas does not return the remaining hostages by the time he takes office on January 20. The 78-year-old made the remarks during a wide-ranging press conference at his home in Florida on Tuesday, but he did not elaborate on what his remarks mean in terms of U.S. action in the region when he takes office. It is the latest in a series of threats Trump has made for the return of hostages taken in the October 7th attack on Israel more than a year ago. 'All hell will break out,' the president-elect declared again Tuesday. 'If those hostages aren't back, I don't want to hurt your negotiation, if they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East,' Trump said. 'And it will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good frankly for anyone,' he continued. 'All hell will break out. I don't have to say anymore, but that's what it is.' He refused to elaborate on what exactly would happen if his demands were not met but said the hostages should have been back along time ago. Trump speaking at his press conference on Florida on Tuesday were he vowed 'all hell will break out' in the Middle East if the hostages taken by Hamas are not released by the time he takes office on January 20 The president-elect was being pressed by a reporter about the Middle East and Syria at Mar-a-Lago when he changed the subject and called his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to give an update on the hostages. 'Well I think we're making a lot of progress,' Witkoff said. 'I don't want to say too much because I think they're doing a really good job back in Doha.' Witkoff said he would be leaving to go back to Qatar on Wednesday, but he claimed they have had 'some really great progress.' 'I'm really hopeful that by the inaugural, we'll have some good things to announce on behalf of the president.' Witkoff suggested it was Trump's reputation and the 'red lines he put out there' are what is driving the negotiations. Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff joined Trump during his press conference and said he believes they are making 'great progress' with negotiations. Witkoff said he would be returning to Doha on Wednesday Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for a ceasefire deal to be finalized before President Biden leaves office during a press conference on Monday A Hamas official told Reuters it has cleared a list of 34 hostages as the first to go free under a ceasefire deal. There are believed to be around 100 hostages still held in Gaza, but it is unclear how many of them are still alive. Negotiations between Israel and Hamas have resumed in Qatar with talks being mediated by Qatari and Egyptian officials. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday called for a deal to be brought 'over the finish line' in the next two weeks before President Biden leaves office. Early last month, Trump warned there would be 'hell to pay' in the Middle East if Hamas did not release the hostages before he was sworn into office on January 20. He wrote in a social media post that those responsible will be 'hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America.' Relatives of Israeli hostages held in Gaza march in Tel Aviv for a ceasefire deal on January 7, 2025 Palestinians walk through the destruction in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip on January 7, 2025 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is a close Trump ally, has said Israel's war in Gaza will continue until Hamas is eradicated and no longer a threat. 1,200 people were killed in the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, and more than 250 hostages were captured and brought into Gaza. More than 45,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's assault since the attack, according to Gaza's health officials. A straight-A student who told her family not to worry about her before vanishing was found dead by a hiker in the Nevada desert. Jennaleah Hin, 17, of Henderson, disappeared from her family home on December 30, telling her family: 'You don't have to worry about me anymore' as she left, according to Red Rock Search and Rescue Commander Mark Speer. On Sunday, Hin's body was found by a hiker in a desert area near Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street, police said. Her death has been ruled a suicide, according to the Clark County Coroner's Office. Her remains were found around 10:45am with no signs of foul play, according to KOLD. She left after a 'normal family dispute' that 'teenagers have with their parents,' Speer said, according to The Independent. 'Nothing out of the ordinary,' he said. She was discovered less than three miles from her Henderson home, which is near Las Vegas. Jennaleah Hin, 17, of Henderson, disappeared from her family home on December 30, telling her family: 'You don't have to worry about me anymore' as she left On Sunday, Hin's body was found by a hiker in a desert area near Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street, police said She left after a 'normal family dispute' that 'teenagers have with their parents,' Speer said. Her parents (pictured) begged for her to return home before her body was found Red Rock Search and Rescue began looking for the teen girl on Thursday after she was caught on camera walking toward the desert. Police are still investigating her death to ascertain if she was ever seen leaving the desert, according to the local outlet. She was last seen leaving her parents' home in a black hoodie and cargo pants. She had left home without a phone, backpack, or water, according to Speer. 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.' Her death has been ruled a suicide. She was discovered less than three miles from her Henderson home The search team trawled the desert with police and Hin's distraught relatives for a week 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. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or actions, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 988. The Brazilian woman accused of killing and harming several relatives with an arsenic-laced Christmas cake has broken her silence to insist she did nothing wrong. Deise Moura, 42, was remanded in prison yesterday on suspicion of three murders and three attempted murders. Police in Torres in southern Brazil where three poison victims died say the evidence they have against her is 'robust' amid unconfirmed reports they include records of online searches for arsenic she allegedly made from her phone. Officials confirmed yesterday the source of the contamination was poisoned flour used in the cake Deise's mother-in law Zeli dos Anjos baked and said the 'extremely high' levels of arsenic could never be 'naturally-occurring.' Deise's lawyer Cassyus Pontes, speaking for the first time on behalf of his client, said today: 'Everything's all very preliminary. 'There are still questions to be answered. What is the causal link between the poison and Deise? 'There is no explanation of how the flour ended up in Zeli's house, or where or how it was acquired. 'These are minimal questions to indicate the authorship of the facts. Instead, all we have are the accounts of some family members and a supposed extraction of data from a mobile phone.' Deise Moura was taken initially to a police station at Canoas, then to Torres police station and is now in the women's jail in the city Zeli dos Anjos (pictured) prepared the traditional 'Bolo de Natal' festive treat for a family afternoon coffee Pictured: The Christmas cake that was consumed by guests on December 23 Referencing an apparent 20-year-old dispute between Zeli and other members of her family which detectives have alluded to as a possible motive, Mr Pontes added in comments to local media: 'Deise never hid the fact that she had disagreements with her mother-in-law. 'She had already mentioned it to the Civil Police in a statement. I was surprised by the preventive custody request.' Zeli's teacher sister Maida Bernice Flores da Silva, 58, another sibling called Neuza Denize Silva Dos Anjos, 65 and Neuza's daughter Tatiana Silvia Dos Santos, 43, died within hours of eating the cake late on December 23. Tatiana's 10-year-old son Matheus, Zeli's great nephew, was also taken into intensive care and only released from hospital last Friday. Maida's husband Jefferson was the other relative hospitalised along with Zeli, who ate two slices of cake and is said to have been exposed to more of the arsenic it contained. Regional security minister Sandro Caron said at a press conference yesterday: 'We have very strong indications that the person who has been arrested is the perpetrator. 'Some details cannot yet be disclosed so as not to hinder the continuity of the investigation, but we have obtained very good information pointing to the person who was arrested yesterday being the perpetrator and acting maliciously.' Brazilian media later reported the key evidence against Zeli's daughter-in-law consisted of online searches for arsenic found on her phone. Brazilian police in Torres hold a press conference today to explain the arrest of Deise Moura Deise Moura (pictured) was held by police at the home she shares with husband The woman was arrested for triple homicide and attempted homicide Zeli, 61, is the only one of the six family members affected who remains in hospital. She was in intensive care but yesterday it emerged she had been moved to a normal ward. Deise's shock arrest on Sunday has led to heightened speculation about whether Zeli's husband's food poisoning death last year could have been a crime, despite it being categorised in the immediate aftermath of his passing away as 'non-suspicious.' Paulo Luis, 68, died last September after eating mashed bananas which relatives last week suggested could have been contaminated by chemicals following flooding in the couple's home city of Canoas a two-hour drive inland from their holiday home nearer Torres where the Christmas cake was eaten. Officials had already confirmed his body was going to be exhumed as part of the ongoing probe into the festive season poisoning and earlier this week it emerged the exhumation will take place on Thursday. Earlier today it emerged a second Brazilian food poisoning murder probe had taken another tragic turn as a fourth member of the same family died. Francisca Maria da Silva's death in the early hours of this morning followed those of her two young children and her teenage brother after they ate a rice and bean dish a mystery assailant had laced with rat poison. It meant even more lives have now been lost to the horror crime in Parnaiba in the north-east Brazilian state of Piaui than the one which left three family members dead and another three in hospital in Torres 2,500 miles south. 10 year old Matheus Marques da Silva who survived eating the poisoned cake with Father Leonir Alves at the hospital in Torres, Brazil Several members of the family died after eating the cake Neuza Denize Silva dos Anjo, 65, was rushed to hospital in critical condition before dying the following day The mother of one had been arrested at her home in Nova Santa Rita late on Sunday No arrests have yet taken place in the Parnaiba poisoning horror. The death of Francisca Maria's three-year-old daughter Lauane earlier this week means four of tragic Francisca Maria's five children have now died from food poisoning after being deliberately targeted. It emerged last week her two older kids, Ulisses Gabriel da Silva, eight, and Joao Miguel da Silva had both died in the space of two months last year. The older boy died in November after nearly three months in hospital. His younger brother 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. Apparel was spotted for sale outside a Melbourne mosque The Australian Jewish community has been outraged by the sale of T-shirts with anti-semitic slogans at a mosque. The T-shirts were being sold outside Elsedeaq Heidelberg Mosque in Heidelberg Heights, in north-east Melbourne, in November last year. Designed by activist Carla Scotto, the black T-shirts have bold white writing with the slogans 'bash Zionists', 'may God crush them' and 'support armed resistance'. It also included Aboriginal activist messages including a burning gravestone inscribed 'The Colony'. The T-shirts are also being sold nationwide to raise money for Indigenous Australians and for Palestinians in Gaza. Imam Alaa Elzokm said he was unaware Ms Scotto had promoted and sold the $65 T-shirts outside the mosque. Imam Elzokm added he did not approve of the T-shirts and the messages but diid not identify the sellers as members of his congregation. On her website, Ms Scotto explained it was entirely her decision to design and sell the T-shirts, saying 'no one ever hired me to do it so f*** it, Enjoy!' activist and graphic designer Carla Scotto was spotted selling the anti-Semitic T-shirts outside a mosque in Melbourne 'My friends and I went through many rounds of edits on this bad boy, and showed to a few diverse eyeballs to get constructive criticism on it,' Ms Scotto wrote. 'If you feel like this is some half-assed hatred, think again. 'If you're feeling sensitive about any components of this design, I assume you don't have the same sensitivity for the brazen Zionist violence that has been broadcast to your phone.' The $65 black T-shirts have bold white writing with the slogans 'bash Zionists', 'may God crush them' and 'support armed resistance' (pictured) All T-shirt profits would be given to multiple aid funds, with the apparel raising $1,300 for 'Blak and Palestinian' people, according to Ms Scotto's December 5 newsletter. The T-shirts have also been spruiked on social media by Huda Nur Haraco, known online as hoodsvstheworld. Ms Haraco was pictured wearing one of the T-shirts at the mosque on the day Ms Scotto was selling them. NSW Artist and children's author Chun, whose real name is Matthew Jones, promoted the T-shirt on his Instagram writing: 'My comrade Carla's mutual aid work has been tireless... this T-shirt goes hard.' The T-shirt design 'shocked' members of Australia's Jewish community, with many claiming the clothing was an 'incitement to violence'. Sydney man Ofir Birenbaum spotted the T-shirts being sold while he was visiting Melbourne. Mr Birenbaum said the T-shirts exposed the Jewish community to violence while at the same time misrepresenting the Muslim community. 'They were sold in a mosque, they automatically misrepresent the Muslim community and expose them to violent rhetoric,' Mr Birenbaum told the Daily Telegraph. 'Calling to "bash Zionists" is a call to harm 97 per cent of the world's Jewish population who identify as Zionists and believe in the existence of Israel.' Australian Jewish Association CEO Robert Gregory added: 'Almost all Jews in Australia identify as Zionists and this is a call to physically attack them.' 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. Donald Trump is renewing his calls for the U.S. to purchase Danish's autonomous territory of Greenland. The president-elect originally floated the idea in his first term in office when discussing the prospect with his senior advisers back in 2019. But he left office without making any movement toward acquiring the territory. Now, with less than two weeks until he begins a second term, Trump is revisiting the idea and his son Donald Trump Jr. traveled to Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday with other 'representatives' of the incoming U.S. president. Multiple politicians, including Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, sent a clear message to Trump: 'Greenland is not for sale.' But if it were, how much would it cost the U.S.? Some have said the best comparison is looking at the U.S. purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. Both Alaska and Greenland have cold, arctic climates, similarly scarce population density, strategic geographic placement and a richness of oil reserves. The U.S. purchased Alaska, which is 586,412 square miles, for $7.2 million. In today's dollars, that equates to around $153.5 million. Greenland is about 1.5 times the size of Alaska at 836,000 square miles. So by boosting that price by 50 percent, the total would come to approximately $230.25 million. Donald Trump is again floating the idea of buying Greenland, a proposal he put forward in the summer of 2019 but was rejected by Danish and Greenlandic political leaders who said: 'Greenland is not for sale' Another metric is to look at previous attempts or considerations to buy Greenland. In 1946, the U.S. thought of buying the arctic island with $100 million in gold. That would equate to more than $1.6 billion today. Both of these calculations, however, come in way under what Greenland's gross domestic product was, which stood at $3.24 billion in U.S. Dollars in 2021. Looking at other past land purchases, the U.S. bought the U.S. Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1917 for $25 million in gold, which today would equal about $616.2 million. And from France in 1803, the U.S purchased the vast Louisiana Purchase spanning from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains, for $15 million, which would equal out to approximately $418.8 million today. The overall answer is that it's unclear how much Trump would need to dole out of the U.S. coffers if he wanted to go forward with buying Greenland. And, it's not immediately known whether Congress, no matter how Trump friendly, would agree with his proposal to purchase. Under the U.S. Constitution, Congress would need to approve the allocation of money for any such acquisition of new land or territories. After reports emerged in August 2019 of Trump weighing the purchase, multiple political leaders in Greenland and Denmark rejected the idea of a sale, with some calling it 'completely ridiculous' or a 'joke.' When it became clear that Trump was serious, Danish PM Frederiksen said: 'Greenland is not for sale. Greenland is not Danish. Greenland is Greenlandic.' Frederiksen's remarks led to Trump canceling on August 20, 2019 his planned state visit to Denmark. Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland on Tuesday with three close Trump allies for what was initially being sold as a 'personal' trip. It soon became clear that his intentions are to further his father's intention to buy the arctic territory At 836,000 square miles, Greenland is a scarcly populated, arctic autonomous territory of Denmark. When comparing it to the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1967, it can be estimated that Greenland's total price would come out to approximately $230.25 million though it's not likely the same metrics would be use to determine worth Don Jr. was in Greenland on Tuesday with conservative Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk; Sergio Gor, with whom he co-owns Winning Team Publishing; and his father's incoming deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs, James Blair. Right after landing, it was understood that Don Jr. was not there on a personal visit. Trump posted to Truth Social: 'Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!' Don also visited a local lunch spot where he met with members of the community in Nuuk, Greenland and put his father on a speakerphone call so he could directly address some residents of the territory he wants to acquire. 'I just want to say, it's a very special place. It needs security for itself, but also needs security, very much, for the world,' Trump said through the phone. 'The location really, you see the people and the ships sailing around, and they're not the right ships. They're not the ships you want to know about.' 'You're so strategically located,' Trump added. 'So we need security our country needs it and the whole world needs it,' he concluded to some cheers from those listening in to the call. Anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq could be quizzed over whether she lied to the Mail on Sunday about the gift of a flat from a developer linked to her Bangladeshi dictator aunt. Downing Street yesterday confirmed that a review by the PMs independent adviser on the ministerial code could examine whether Ms Siddiq told the truth about a 700,000 apartment in Londons Kings Cross which she was given two decades ago. Ms Siddiq referred herself to Sir Laurie Magnus on Monday following questions about her use of properties linked to her aunt Sheikh Hasina, the deposed former prime minister of Bangladesh. When she was first asked about the Kings Cross apartment in 2022, she denied that it was a gift and insisted that her parents had bought it for her. She also threatened the Mail on Sunday with legal action. But Labour sources have since confirmed that the flat was given to her by a property developer linked to her aunt as an act of gratitude. A source close to Ms Siddiq told the paper: Tulips previous understanding of how she gained ownership of the property has changed. Yesterday it emerged that her changing story could be investigated by Sir Laurie when he examines her use of homes linked to her aunt. Russian President Vladimir Putin (right), former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (centre) and Tulip Siddiq MP (left) attend a signing ceremony in the Kremlin in Moscow in January 2013 A view of the flat near Kings Cross owned by Tulip Siddiq who could be quizzed over whether she lied to the Mail on Sunday about it No 10 confirmed that Sir Laurie would be free to decide the scope of his investigation himself, including examining her past statements. The PMs official spokesman told reporters: There are new provisions in the updated ministerial code which allow a minister to request that a matter be referred to the independent adviser to determine whether further action is needed including the need for investigation. So at this stage hes establishing the facts. Im not going to get into the scope of that - its up to the independent adviser to determines what he looks at. Asked specifically whether Sir Laurie could examine whether Ms Siddiq lied to the Mail on Sunday, the spokesman added: I cant get ahead of the scope of that exercise. Its now up to the independent adviser to establish the facts and provide an update at the end of that exercise. It also emerged yesterday that the Bangladeshi government is seeking the bank account details and transaction records of the Treasury minister - who is responsible for tackling corruption in finance. The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), the government agency responsible for investigating money laundering and corruption, is said to have sought her bank details. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: BFIU has issued directives to all banks and financial institutions of Bangladesh to send the information and transaction details of Sheikh Hasina... [other members of the family] and Tulip Siddiq and their business enterprises. The BFIU sent an order to all 61 banks in the country asking them to hand over any bank account details or records of transactions Ms Siddiq has ever made with them. Treasury minister Tulip Siddiq was given a two-bedroom apartment by a figure connected to the recently deposed Bangladeshi government The order, in Bengali and seen by the Daily Mail, contained Ms Siddiqs name, her date of birth, the names of her parents and husband Christian Percy, a former civil servant. Curiously it also contained her Bangladeshi National ID card number, which is only issued to citizens of that country. This suggests Ms Siddiq holds dual British and Bangladeshi nationalities. The BFIU has also ordered the banks for account information on six other members of the City Ministers family, which includes her mother, Sheikh Rehana, 69, her brother Radwan Siddiq, 44, and her younger sister, Azmina, 34. The BFIU had already frozen the bank accounts of Sheikh Rehana and Radwan, as well as that of the Ministers aunt, Sheikh Hasina Wazed, 77, the former prime minister of Bangladesh who was ousted in August after ruling the country with an iron fist for more than 15 years. Yesterdays probe is the third corruption investigation launched in Bangladesh against Ms Siddiq. A spokesman for Ms Siddiq said of the bank details: No evidence has been presented for these allegations. Tulip has not been contacted by anyone on the matter and totally refutes the claims. It is understood that she only holds a UK bank account and does not hold any accounts overseas. There are also reports that the Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate could have her London properties investigated by the UKs National Crime Agency (NCA). Officials from the agency and HMRC are believed to have visited Dhaka to support the work of investigators late last year, the paper reported. Downing Street has insisted that the Prime Minister retains confidence in Ms Siddiq Ms Siddiq's aunt, former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina with Russian president Vladimir Putin A source familiar with the investigation said the Kings Cross flat could well be in scope, as could the house in which she lives, which is owned by a political ally of her aunt. Ms Siddiq and her family live in a 2.1 million semi-detached home owned by Abdul Karim Nazim, an official in the London arm of Hasinas political party. The probe would form part of an international hunt for billions of pounds allegedly stolen by her aunts regime. On Monday, Sir Keir Starmer said he had confidence in the minister and that she had acted entirely properly in referring herself to Sir Laurie. Ms Siddiq maintains that she has done nothing wrong but has said she will insist the inquiry in establishing the facts. The economic secretary to the Treasury is responsible for financial sanctions and countering economic crime, money laundering and illicit finance. A spokesman for the NCA said: The NCA does not routinely confirm or deny the existence of investigations. Sheikh Hasina was deposed as Bangladeshs prime minister in August amid allegations of corruption and brutality. Ms Siddiq, her aunt and mother are being investigated in Bangladesh over allegations that 3.9 billion was embezzled from a nuclear power plant project. Asked about claims about her involvement in a Russia-backed nuclear plant, a spokesman for Ms Siddiq said: No evidence has been presented for these allegations. Tulip has not been contacted by anyone on the matter and totally refutes the claims. The bodies of two men that were found dead inside the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue flight were badly decomposed when discovered, according to sources. Workers at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport in Florida made the horrifying discovery on Monday evening during a routine post-flight maintenance check. The flight had arrived in the Sunshine State after departing from New York's JFK Airport. The bodies were found in the plane's landing gear compartment, the airline told DailyMail.com. Officials are investigating how the individuals got into the plane. According to a law enforcement official who spoke with CNN, the bodies of the two were said to have been 'badly decomposed'. Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials began to investigate the deaths. Spokesperson Carey Codd told DailyMail.com that the victims, both of whom he later confirmed as being male, were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials have not yet officially confirmed the nationality of the two men, with The Jamaica Observer reporting they are thought to be from the Caribbean nation. This JetBlue flight was found to have two dead bodies in its wheel well after flying from New York's JFK Airport to Fort Lauderdale International Airport Monday night Broward Sheriff's Office deputies and medical examiners were seen outside the airport as officials carried out their investigation into two bodies found in the wheel well of a JetBlue airplane Codd added that autopsies are set to be performed and that the investigation is ongoing but was unable to offer victim identities or further detail. FlightAware data indicates that the Airbus A320 had been in service all day on Monday, starting with a flight from Jamaica to New York. This was followed by two flights to Salt Lake City before returning to JFK, and then the final flight down to Florida. According to a police radio call heard by CNN, an unidentified person said: 'A gate technician in the landing gear area noticed two males who appear to be Signal 7, advised they are not moving in the landing gear area.' JetBlue told DailyMail.com: 'On Monday evening, January 6, at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, two individuals were found in the landing gear compartment of one of our aircraft during the routine post-flight maintenance inspection. 'Tragically, both individuals were deceased. At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation. 'This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred.' A spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration said they are investigating the deaths with the help of the airline, local cops and the FAA. FlightAware data indicates that the Airbus A320 had been in service all day on Monday, starting with a flight from Jamaica to New York, seen here The deaths have not impacted operations Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, an airport spokesperson confirmed. The incident bears an eerie similarity to another tragic incident in Hawaii on Christmas Eve. That saw a dead body discovered on the wheel of a United Airlines jet that had flown to Kahului Airport in Maui from Chicago. The body - which has still not been identified - was discovered on the wheel well of the Boeing 787-10. United said at the time that it was unclear how the person had gained access to the wheel well. Anyone stowing away in the wheel well of an airplane faces prolonged temperatures that sit well below freezing while the airplane cruises at close to 40,000 feet. Migrants have previously died or survived stowing away in the wheel well of planes to travel from Asia or Africa to European countries. But both recent incidents happened within United States airspace, with the victims not crossing any international borders. The King's former closest aide, Michael Fawcett, exposed Charles' scandal-linked charitable foundation to 'substantial risk', a regulator found yesterday. A report by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) found Charles' former valet was appointed to run the then-Prince's Foundation with no job description or formal responsibilities. The watchdog inquiry was launched amid reports of a cash-for-honours scandal at the operation, now known as the King's Foundation. It found Mr Fawcett's actions did not amount to misconduct, and said there was no evidence of misconduct by current or former trustees. But it raised questions over governance at the charity during Mr Fawcett's time as its chief executive officer and its report suggested Mr Fawcett was effectively given a carte blanche when he was appointed. He resigned from the role in 2021 after a letter, first published in The Mail on Sunday, revealed he had offered to help a wealthy Saudi donor obtain a knighthood and British citizenship. An internal investigation by the charity found he had co-ordinated with fixers over honours nominations for Saudi billionaire Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz, who was awarded an honorary CBE by Charles, in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2016. Mr Mahfouz has denied any wrongdoing. The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into the cash-for-honours claims and two men were questioned under caution but the force announced in 2023 that it would take no further action. The King's former closest aide, Michael Fawcett, exposed Charles' scandal-linked charitable foundation to 'substantial risk', a regulator found yesterday Michael Fawcett pictured with King Charles in 1990, when he was a prince, at Sandringham The OSCR inquiry examined whether former trustees at the charity had 'previous concerns' about Mr Fawcett's conduct. It criticised his 'unacceptable' conduct over a failure to insure a collection of artworks which was loaned to the charity, said to be worth more than 100million. James Stunt, the ex-husband of heiress Petra Ecclestone, reportedly loaned 17 masterpieces - including works by Monet, Picasso and Salvador Dali - to the foundation to display at its headquarters, Dumfries House in Ayrshire, Scotland. The OSCR report said it was not clear if Mr Fawcett had known the insurance had lapsed, but said: 'In relation to the charity's former CEO, the inquiry found that some of his actions resulted in the charity being exposed to substantial risk. 'It was unacceptable that he did not brief the charity trustees on some of these serious issues as soon as they arose. By not doing so the former charity trustees' ability to react to the risk faced by the charity was hindered. 'Based on all the information gathered, OSCR does not consider that there was misconduct on the part of the former CEO.' It questioned whether the charity had exercised appropriate oversight and management over Mr Fawcett, and noted: 'The charity advised the inquiry that no job description existed for the former CEO and that there was no scheme of delegation setting out his responsibilities.' Mr Fawcett, a former senior valet to Charles, had twice previously been forced to resign over scandals, including claims of bullying and selling on unwanted royal gifts. The watchdog inquiry found Mr Fawcett's (pictured in 2018) actions did not amount to misconduct, and said there was no evidence of misconduct by current or former trustees A report by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) found Charles' (pictured last month) former valet was appointed to run the then-Prince's Foundation with no job description or formal responsibilities But he continued to work as a freelance fixer and events manager for the prince, who was said to rely on him 'completely' and to have famously remarked he 'could manage without just about anyone, except for Michael'. The King's Foundation, renamed after Charles's accession, aims to 'advocate for the change His Majesty wants to see in the world' and has recently attracted a growing number of celebrity ambassadors including David Beckham and Sienna Miller. It offers workshops and courses to promote heritage and endangered skills, and also focuses on sustainability, farming and agriculture, health and wellbeing, and architecture and urbanism. In a statement, the foundation said: 'The findings of this report into historic activity at the organisation have been noted by The King's Foundation. 'As the report acknowledges, the OSCR is satisfied with the improvements made by The King's Foundation in recent years, including the introduction of new and robust governance practices. 'Following the conclusion of OSCR's investigation, we look forward to furthering the impact of our charitable work and achievements as we enter the new year.' Beauty queen Magali Benejam has been stripped of her Miss Universe Argentina crown after she made a series of controversial remarks. Benejam, 30, claimed during a live stream that the competition was rigged after it was won by Danish beauty Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, 21, in Mexico City in November. 'When they announced the Top 5, I saw the judges looking at each other in [strange] ways,' Benejam said. 'They started looking at each other as if to say, "This is not what we chose, this is not what I chose." That's what it felt like from the outside, and that's where I said, "OK, this is fixed." It was always fixed, every year.' Benejam placed 12th in the competition and was highly critical of how the Miss Universe Organization became inclusive by eliminating its age restriction for the 73rd pageant. The beauty competition also permitted the participation of married women, mothers and transgender people. The Cordoba resident also slammed the attitude of Miss Dominican Republic Celinee Santos. She added that Miss Puerto Rico Jennifer Colon stopped being friendly as the night of the crowning neared. Miss Argentina Magali Benejam was stripped of her Miss Universe Argentina title on January 2 following her controversial remarks during an interview on the King Lucho YouTube live stream that critiqued the beauty pageant and its contestants Miss Argentina said the Miss Universe beauty pageant 'was always fixed' 'I spoke to her a couple of times, but the last few days she decided to stop talking to me, I don't know why,' Benejam recalled. 'I guess she was very nervous and very much in her element and it happened to me that in the last two days I said to her, "Hi, Jenny, how are you?" and she looked at me and didn't answer.' Benejam also took a shot at Colon's attire for the final. 'I think it was a complete decision of her organization, I don't think she had a say here because what I saw of her style during the competition had been very nice,' she said. The Miss Universe Organization announced its decision to remove Benejam's title as Miss Universe Argentina in a press release statement, which it issued January 2. 'Our values focus on celebrating diversity, promoting inclusion, and respecting all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or experiences,' the international beauty pageant organizer said. 'The words and actions of our representatives must reflect these unwavering principles to which all participants commit upon joining the Miss Universe community. 'The decision comes after careful consideration and aligns with our commitment to uphold the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. We want to emphasize that this action is taken to protect the integrity of the organization and the opportunities it provides to women around the world.' Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, 21, was named the 73rd Miss Universe Saturday night in Mexico City. The Danish student beat out more than 120 other contestants to do so Benejam was also critical of Miss Dominican Republic's attitude Portugal's Marina Machete, a transgender woman, placed in the top 20 of the pageant last year DailyMail.com reached out to Benejam, Santos and Colon for comment. Theilvig beat out more than 120 other contestants after the 2023 competition featured married, plus-sized, and transgender contestants. Her victory went viral as people online commented how things were 'returning to normalcy' because a woman had taken the crown. It followed backlash to the previous year's competition over the inclusion of a transgender beauty queen, Portugal's Marina Machete, who placed in the top 20. The Seattle police officer who struck and killed a college student at a crosswalk has been fired and now faces a massive lawsuit. Northeastern University student Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was run down by a Seattle Police Department SUV driven by Officer Kevin Dave while crossing a crosswalk near campus in September 2023. Now, Dave and the Seattle Police Department face a $110 million lawsuit following Dave's dismissal from the force on Monday. The lawsuit, filed by attorneys for Kandula's family, asks for more than $110 million and says that the victim experienced terror, severe emotional distress, and pain and suffering before her death, according to KOMO News. Dave had been responding to a 'priority one' call to provide aid to a man who had overdosed on drugs but did not need to be taken to hospital. The Seattle Office of Police Accountability found that Dave had violated multiple SPD policies including adhering to laws, the safe operation of a vehicle; and the use of emergency lights for emergency response, among others. 'As I have done in the past, I want the members of SPD to hear from me directly why I made that decision. I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible,' Interim SPD Chief Sue Rahr said. 'However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of a human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department,' she added. Officer Kevin Dave (pictured) has been fired nearly two years after he struck and killed Jaahnavi Kandula at a crosswalk. Dave and the Seattle Police Department are now facing a $110 million lawsuit Northeastern University Seattle student Jaahnavi Kandula, 23, was run down and killed by a Seattle Police Department SUV while crossing a crosswalk near campus in September 2023 Organizations such as Indian American Community Services have called for a widespread police reform. Lalita Uppala of IACS said: 'It's not fair to say you fire and officer and that takes care of things. That's not what we were asking for. We were asking for clarity and guidelines' It was determined that Dave had hit Kandula while driving 63mph in a 25mph zone, and had reached 74mph, according to investigators. Since her death, organizations such as Indian American Community Services have called for a widespread police reform. 'It's not fair to say you fire an officer and that takes care of things,' Lalita Uppala of IACS told KOMO. That's not what we were asking for. We were asking for clarity and guidelines.' In March 2024, the Seattle City Attorney issued a $5,00 traffic fine against Dave. According to an investigation report, the officer had not activated his siren at the time of collision where Kandula was determined to have had the right of way. Instead, the officer 'chirped' his siren at the intersection with his emergency lights on, according to the Seattle Police Department. In February 2024, the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office announced its decision not to file criminal charges against Dave, finding that there was a 'lack of sufficient evidence under Washington state law to prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt.' He was served with the $5k traffic infraction nine days later. Kandula's story made national and international headlines after body camera footage was released from a responding officer, who was heard making vile comments about the victim. Calls to fire Detective Daniel Auderer were made after he was heard suggesting that the police could 'write a check' to Kandula's family for $11,000, remarking that 'she had limited value.' Calls to fire Detective Daniel Auderer were made after he was heard suggesting that the police could 'write a check' to Kandula's family for $11,000 - claiming 'she had limited value' A photo of Jaahnavi Kandula is displayed with flowers on Jan. 29, 2023 in Seattle Officer Kevin Dave's (pictured) termination comes one month after the Seattle Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression made renewed calls for his dismissal and criminal conviction Later, in July, Rahr announced that Auderer had been fired after being previously being re-assigned to a 'non-operational position.' 'For me to allow the officer to remain on our force would only bring further dishonor to the entire department,' she wrote in an internal email, according to KUOW. 'I am choosing to share the outcome of this case with all of you, because the far-reaching impact of the officer's actions reflect on all of us, not just as members of the Seattle Police Department, but on the profession of law enforcement,' she added. After the body camera footage went public, Auderer insisted in a letter to the Office of Police Accountability that he was not making fun of Kandula's death but instead meant to make 'a mockery of lawyers.' 'I laughed at the ridiculousness of how these incidents are litigated and the ridiculousness of how I watched these incidents play out as two parties bargain over a tragedy,' he wrote. Auderer acknowledged in the statement that anyone listening to his side of the conversation alone 'would rightfully believe I was being insensitive to the loss of human life.' The comment was 'not made with malice or a hard heart,' he said, but 'quite the opposite.' But in January, the Office of Police Accountability ruled that he broke policing standards when he made 'inhumane' comments and laughed. Sirens at the intersection where Kandula was run down by a police officer Kandula's family said her death left a 'huge hole' in the hearts of people who knew her. 'We are truly heartbroken. Jaahnavi was a brilliant student with a bright future,' they said Dave's termination comes one month after the Seattle Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression made renewed calls for his dismissal and criminal conviction, reported KOMO. It also comes one week after Dave was found in court to have committed negligent driving on the night he hit Kandula. Kandula's family said her death left a 'huge hole' in the hearts of people who knew her. 'We are truly heartbroken. Jaahnavi was a brilliant student with a bright future. Jaahnavi's smile was radiant, and her bubbly personality warmed the hearts of every person she came in contact with. She had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life,' they said in a statement. 'Jaahnavi's tragic and untimely death has left her family and community with a huge hole in their hearts that will never be repaired. She was a daughter to a single mother who teaches elementary school in India,' they added. 'In spite of earning less than 200 USD per month, her mother educated Jaahnavi and encouraged her to the United States hoping Jaahnavi would have a better future and a better life abroad. Her mother's hopes and dreams are cut short now.' Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan has been formally expelled from the state Republican party after being a harsh critic of President-elect Donald Trump during the 2024 campaign season. The Georgia Republican Party's state executive committee voted unanimously on a resolution ousting Duncan from the party on January 6. The state party accused Duncan of breaking his oath to the Republican party and claimed he 'undermined and sabotaged' Republican candidates as he spoke out against Trump. In the blistering resolution, they claimed his term as Georgia lieutenant governor was 'marred by embarrassment and scandal' and said he 'forfeited any claim to being even a nominal Republican."' It comes after Duncan was one of Trump's harshest Republican critics and actively campaigned for his opponent Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. Duncan responded to being expelled by the state GOP with a social media post where he called out the party's chairman. 'Hard to believe this is a good use of time for a party thats only got a limited amount of time to figure out mass deportations, world peace and global tariffs. Learn how to take a victory lap not light another dumpster fire @JoshMcKoon,' he wrote on X. Former Georgia Republican Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan was expelled from the Georgia Republican Party after he was a harsh Trump critic and backed Kamala Harris in the 2024 election Duncan was once considered a rising star of the Georgia Republican Party. He served as lieutenant governor from 2019 to 2023 after serving in the Georgia House of Representatives from 2013 to 2017. In December 2020, Duncan sided with Republican Georgia Governor Brian Kemp against calling a joint session of the Georgia Assembly to appoint their own electors in an unsuccessful effort to overturn the results of presidential election. They deemed such a move as unconstitutional. In 2021, he announced he would not seek reelection for a second term as he pushed back on false claims of election fraud in Georgia. The following year, he said he did not vote for Republican Senate candidate Herschel Walker in the midterms or Senator Raphael Warnock. Duncan's response to being expelled from the state's Republican party Last May, he wrote an article in the state's biggest newspaper titled 'Why I'm voting for Biden and other Republicans should, too.' In it, he argued Trump disqualified himself 'through his conduct and his character' and claimed the now president-elect 'fanned the flames of unfounded conspiracy theories that led to the horrific events of Jan. 6, 2021.' He went on to actively campaign for the Democratic presidential ticket and even delivered a speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago last August. 'Let me be clear to my Republican friends at home watching: If you vote for Kamala Harris in 2024, youre not a Democrat, youre a patriot,' he declared before thousands of Democrats in attendance and millions viewing the convention on television. He also called the current Republican party a 'cult worshipping a felonist thug.' Duncan speaking at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on August 21, 2024 Duncan leaving the courthouse on August 14, 2023 after testifying before a grand jury probing whether Trump illegally tried to overturn the state's 2020 election results On Monday, the Georgia Republican Party not only expelled Duncan but banned him from qualifying as a candidate of the state party. It also 'expunged' his nomination as Republican candidate for lieutenant governor and as a Georgia House candidate. It also demanded Duncan 'cease calling himself a "Republican" or using his false claim of being a Republican for personal profit' and banned him from all Georgia Republican Party property. A bushfire that sparked evacuations and cut off 100 campers in Cape Otway, southwest Victoria, has been contained. Residents and holidaymakers in the region were urged to evacuate early on Wednesday, before being told at 7am to shelter in place as it was too late to leave. About 100 campers at Blanket Bay campground were left isolated, with 22 other people taking refuge at Cape Otway Lightstation. But by 9am the 14-hectare fire on Red Hill Track had been contained, with 7 fire crews remaining at the scene. Popular with tourists, Cape Otway is a leading attraction on the Great Ocean Road. The fresh fires came after a blaze in the Grampians National Park which was declared contained on Monday after it burned for three weeks, destroying homes and killing vast numbers of animals. The fire scorched 76,000 hectares of land and brought holiday tourism in western Victoria to a standstill. The park remains closed but residents can return to their properties. It's estimated the destruction has cost the local economy about $2million. 'There is a bushfire at Blanket Bay Road, Cape Otway that is out of control,' said the warning issued from VicEmergency at 7am on Wednesday About 100 campers at Blanket Bay campground, Cape Otway, were isolated due to the blaze Many businesses in surrounding towns were not ready to reopen straight away, Grampians Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman said. 'A lot of the supplies they had for that busy period would have been used up or thrown out,' he told AAP. 'Now begins the task of rebuilding without the cash that they would have had from that Christmas period.' Mr Sleeman estimates the fire cost the local economy more than $1.9 million. He said the road to recovery would be long and tough, and the visitor experience would be diminished if operators were unable to get back on their feet. 'We're certainly going to need the support of state government with some reopening, recovery marketing dollars,' Mr Sleeman said. Northern Grampians Shire mayor Karen Hyslop said the council would work to get relief for businesses, pointing out many were also impacted by bushfires in February that wiped out a third of the town of Pomonal. 'There was COVID and then there was the fires in February and now this,' she said. The Grampians bushfire burned through 76,000 hectares of land and killed hundreds of livestock. (HANDOUT/STATE CONTROL CENTRE) Agricultural land, infrastructure and livestock were destroyed by the blaze over three weeks. (HANDOUT/STATE CONTROL CENTRE) Four residential properties in Moyston and Mafeking were destroyed in the Grampian fires, along with 40 outbuildings in the area. Some 13,538ha of farmland was burnt, 540km of fencing damaged and preliminary livestock losses tally at 775 sheep, one horse, one cow and 1285 beehives. The impact to pastures was significant, said Victorian Farmers Federation president Brett Hosking. 'The farmers we met were still quite shell-shocked,' he said. 'It's going to be two years or more to fully recovery, to get pastures fully established, fences completed, get infrastructure rebuilt.' Beyond the immediate need for fencing to keep livestock off roads, Mr Hosking said providing fodder and livestock agistment were priorities for local farmers. 'Farmers right across Victoria, NSW, South Australia are very generously donating fodder and agistment to some of those impacted farmers,'' he said. 'But the challenge of actually connecting the two ... is still an expensive process so I think there's a role for government to step in and provide some fodder subsidies.' President Joe Biden's former disinformation czar has blasted Meta for ditching its fact checkers. Nina Jankowicz slammed CEO Mark Zuckerberg's decision as a 'full bending of the knee to [Donald] Trump'. Zuckerberg announced on Tuesday that he would be replacing fact-checkers with a community notes-style system similar to the one seen on rival Elon Musk's X site. The CEO revealed the move was because, 'fact-checkers have just been too politically biased, and have destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the U.S.' However, Jankowicz rejected his suggestion in a tirade on social media platform Bluesky. 'Lets be clearthe fact checkers have not been politically biased as Zuck suggests, but have been *perceived as such* because of politically motivated efforts to smear them, one that Zuck is now participating in and capitulating to,' she 'Facebook has already contributed to the demise of journalism and this will be the final nail in the coffin. 'Zucks announcement is a full bending of the knee to Trump and an attempt to catch up to Musk in his race to the bottom.' President Joe Biden's former disinformation czar Nina Jankowicz has blasted Meta for ditching its fact checkers Jankowicz slammed CEO Mark Zuckerberg for a 'full bending of the knee to [Donald] Trump' with the decision The former Executive Director of the Disinformation Governance Board has previously been outspoken in her criticism of Musk, notably around his acquisition of Twitter, now X. Jankowicz also insisted that the fact checkers actually helped boost free speech. 'The implications are going to be widespread,' Jankowicz said. 'Fact-checking was not a panacea to disinformation on FB but it was an important part of moderation. Bumpers are fully off the lane now.' Jankowicz was appointed to her former position in 2022, but resigned just a few months later when board was 'paused' amid bi-partisan criticism. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas acknowledged the boards controversy had become a distraction to the departments other work, which includes safeguarding U.S. elections, two officials familiar with his decision said. Announcing the policy change, Meta wrote in a news release that it hoped to return to 'fundamental commitment to free expression'. 'Experts, like everyone else, have their own biases and perspectives. This showed up in the choices some made about what to fact check and how. Jankowicz was appointed as Executive Director of President Biden's doomed Disinformation Governance Board 'Over time we ended up with too much content being fact checked that people would understand to be legitimate political speech and debate. 'Our system then attached real consequences in the form of intrusive labels and reduced distribution. A program intended to inform too often became a tool to censor.' The platform will now rely on community notes, which allow users to add their own context to posts. It comes after Trump was banned from Facebook for two years in the wake of the January 6 insurrection. In 2022, Facebook announced it would stop fact-checking his speeches ahead of his second White House run. 'The normal state of affairs is that the public should be able to hear from a former President of the United States, and a declared candidate for that office again, on our platforms,' Facebook said in a statement at the time. A massive wildfire whipped up by extreme winds has swept through a Los Angeles hillside dotted with celebrity homes - with a state of emergency declared. The enormous blaze in the Pacific Palisades forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of people, some of whom abandoned their cars and fled on foot to safety with roads blocked. Firefighters battling the blaze, which is burning through about five football fields a minute, warned they were running out of water and supplies, as evacuation warnings spread to Malibu and Calabasas. Tankers full of water had been dousing the inferno from the skies all afternoon, but all aircraft were later grounded amid deteriorating wind conditions and visibility. Residents were warned the worst is still yet to come as the raging wildfire burns through more than 2,900 acres of Los Angeles land at an extraordinary rate. At least 30,000 residents are now under mandatory evacuation orders with more still warned they should be prepared to leave, after a fire that broke out in the foothills near Eaton Canyon has grown to 1,000 acres in just six hours since it began. A third brush fire has broken out in Sylmar in the San Fernando Valley which recent estimates is around 100 acres big. The Hurst Fire was estimated at 300 acres with a 'rapid rate of spread' and mandatory evacuations this morning. Governor Gavin Newsom announced early today that the state had secured federal funding to help with the fire. It comes as: Pacific Palisades, where houses have already been reduced to rubble, is a celebrity enclave home to Chris Pratt, Reese Witherspoon and Miles Teller among other Hollywood A-listers. Even more celebrities call Calabasas and Pasadena home, including the Kardashians. Hellish photos from the inferno's epicenter show once-decadent million-dollar homes completely obliterated by the wildfire. A spiral staircase and opulent art gallery wall were seen burned to cinders. Firefighters, which have said there is no hope of containing the fires overnight, are now focusing their efforts on helping residents get to safety. Firefighters battling a mammoth blaze in California 's ritzy Pacific Palisades have warned they're running out of water and supplies, as emergency evacuation warnings spread as far as Malibu and Calabasas At least 30,000 residents are now under mandatory evacuation orders Tankers full of water have been dousing the inferno from the skies all afternoon, but all aircraft have now been grounded amid deteriorating wind conditions and visibility Your browser does not support iframes. Spencer Pratt is seen watching the wildfire as it approaches his family home in Palisades Ben Affleck, 52, returned home to his Pacific Palisades house last night to see the wildfire nearby was within sight Your browser does not support iframes. Las Lomas Avenue in the Palisades was reportedly caught in the direct line of fire, and witnesses say 'dozens' of homes on that street alone 'are gone.' As brave firefighters battle the inferno on at least two fronts, the Los Angeles Fire Department has issued an urgent call out for any off-duty officers to help out. According to scanners in the area, those on the ground battling the intense blaze are starting to experience shortages in their supplies, particularly water. Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson declared a state of emergency on Tuesday night - while warning that the worst of the windstorm is 'yet to come.' Gov. Gavin Newsom also declared a state-wide emergency. Evacuation orders have also now been extended to parts of Santa Monica. With panicked residents fleeing on foot, the city enlisted bulldozers to rid the streets of the deserted, flashy cars and clear a path for first responders to access the hills, where the fire is raging. Teslas, BMWs, Porches, and Mercedes were all filmed being dozed out of the way on Tuesday afternoon - as terrified millionaire locals said that the natural disaster felt like an all-encompassing 'tornado of fire.' The Palisades blaze began shortly after the start of a Santa Ana windstorm that the National Weather service warned could be 'life threatening' and the strongest to hit Southern California in more than a decade. The Eaton fire in Altadena started near a nature preserve. The flames spread so rapidly that staff at a senior care center had to push dozens of residents in wheelchairs and hospital beds down the street to a parking lot where they waited in their bedclothes for ambulances and other vehicles to take them to safety. A third wildfire started around 10.30pm and quickly prompted evacuations in Sylmar, a San Fernando Valley community that is the northernmost neighborhood in Los Angeles. The causes of all three fires are under investigation. Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said despite the chaotic evacuations, there were no immediate reports of deaths. Hellish photos from the inferno's epicenter show once-decadent million-dollar homes completely obliterated by the wildfire. A spiral staircase and opulent art gallery wall were seen burned to cinders A firefighter tries to cover his face from the thick smoke as he battles the inferno Distressing video showed the blaze creeping up the side of a mountain where the iconic museum sits - as eerie black smoke filled the air surrounding its pristine white facade A helicopter drops water around homes threatened by the wind-driven Palisades Fire President Joe Biden revealed late on Tuesday night he'd been briefed on the fires and was in touch with both state and local officials. 'I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire,' he wrote on X. 'Earlier tonight, FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to support areas that are impacted and help reimburse the state of California for the immediate firefighting costs. 'My Administration will do everything it can to support the response. I urge the residents of the Pacific Palisades and the surrounding areas of Los Angeles to stay vigilant and listen to local officials.' Amid the hellish backdrop of the apocalyptic inferno, evacuation notices were placed along the affluent coastal region, with a chilling warning which read: 'Immediate threat to life. 'This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access.' Firefighter David Ortiz reiterated the urgent warning: 'Do not stand in the way of this fire. This is pretty much the worst possible scenario for a firefight.' Horrific images coming out of the coveted zip code showed millionaire homes completely burned out - with structures crumbling to the ground while being engulfed in flames. Brave firefighters attempted to breach the blaze which jumped from home to home. Residents at the Pasadena Park Healthcare & Wellness Center were being evacuated today as the Eaton Fire grew nearby, KNBC reported. Velma Wright, 102, was evacuated from a care facility as embers and flames approached in Pasadena, an AFP photographer saw. The windstorm poses a massive problem, making the inferno life-threatening - while being the most damaging since 2011. LA officials have said that the wildstorm is only set to get worse as we head into Wednesday. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Marrone also had a stern warning for residents on Tuesday night, telling them: 'we are not out of danger.' 'The National Weather Service has predicted that the winds are going to pick up and get worse,' Marrone said. 'We're going to have the most significant wind event between 10 p.m. [PST] this evening and 5 a.m. tomorrow morning.' The National Weather Service has warned residents to expect more carnage tonight with wind gusts reaching 50 mph. A firefighter battles the advancing Palisades Fire as it burns a structure The evacuation orders have sparked chaos on the roads, with a traffic gridlock only worsened by panicked residents choosing to abandon their cars and flee on foot A person wearing a face mask flees as a wildfire breaks-out near Pacific Palisades A firefighter makes a stand from the balcony of a home in front of the advancing Palisades Fire Two people flee from the advancing inferno The 200-acre bush fire was first reported around 10:30am on Tuesday and authorities have described the flames as a blowtorch A Los Angeles County firefighter in front of a burning house while battling the Palisades wildfire LA County firefighters take up positions to battle the Palisades wildfire in Pacific Palisades Massive fames burn homes on January 7, 2025 in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California Emmy Award winning actor James Woods, 77, was among high-profile residents forced to flee on Tuesday. He shared a video of the blaze near his home as he prepared to evacuate. 'Standing in my driveway ready to evacuate. We've got a lot of planes going over dropping water,' he said. 'S**t.' In the video, it appeared as though a house further up on the hills had already been engulfed in flames. 'We were blessed to have LA fire and police depts doing their jobs so well,' he later said. 'We are safe and out. There are several elementary schools in our neighborhood and there was an enormous community effort to evacuate the children safely. Can not speak more highly of the LA fire and LAPD.' Jonathan Vigliotti posted a video of a car burning uncontrollably in a driveway on X on Tuesday afternoon. 'Come on, guys!' he called, his voice filled with fear. 'We got to go!' 'We were in a neighborhood as it went up in flames. Mass panic in the streets, and the worst of the wind will hit the Palisades Fire tonight,' he wrote on X. The 2,900-acre bush fire was first reported around 10:30am on Tuesday and authorities have described the flames as a blowtorch. Initially, it was said to be 200 acres, but jumped to 300 and then up to 770 within 30 minutes. Now, it is encompassing 2,900 acres and destroying over 'three football fields' of land every sixty seconds. Resident Mina and her daughter told DailyMail.com they were lucky to drive out with the clothes on their backs and their two small dogs. She described the scene as 'chaotic' and 'frightening' with people running, sirens blasting and planes full of ocean water buzzing overhead. 'People are parking their cars on the side of the road, getting out and running for their lives!' she told DailyMail.com. 'People are literally running down the sidewalks pulling kids by their hands and carrying Louis Vuitton luggage. 'One guy was running with two Gucci suitcases and a house plant. It is like something out of a disaster movie.' A man uses a garden hose to wet the area around a property in effort to fend off the approaching flames Evacuation notices are in place along the affluent coastal region, with a chilling warning from authorities which read: 'Immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access' A resident attempts to protect his property from the flames A woman carries a dog as she evacuates a neighborhood being threatened by the Palisades wildfire The inferno is raging through the neighborhood, which is home to celebrities Authorities has issued an 'immediate' evacuation order for Pacific Palisades, urging residents to 'LEAVE NOW.' 'Do not stand in the way of this fire,' Firefighter David Ortiz said A deadly wildfire is ripping through Pacific Palisades, triggering the evacuation of its 20,000 residents and forcing panicked Californians to ditch their cars Two firefighters run as they knock on doors to get people out of the million-dollar homes A person uses clothing to partially cover their face, as a wildfire breaks-out near Pacific Palisades Residents in one of California's ritziest neighborhoods have been warned their lives are at immediate risk as a wildfire rapidly rips through Los Angeles Flames from the Palisades Fire burn a business on January 7, 2025 A woman cries as the Palisades Fire advances and she gets in her car Some 90,000 Californians are without power, according to poweroutage.us. Police Academy star Steve Guttenberg said the fire is near his home and that people are abandoning their cars and making it hard for firetruck to make it up the road. Guttenberg is urging his fellow neighbors to leave their keys in their car if they're leaving their vehicle behind 'so guys like me can move your car.' 'We really need people to move their cars,' he told KTLA. 'So if you leave your car on Palisades Drive, leave the key in there.' The actor said he had friends who can't get out of their homes due to vehicles left behind. The man charged with setting fire to one of California's most historic mansions was motivated by a 'left-wing' and 'anti-colonialism' political ideology, authorities said. The Bidwell Mansion, a stunning building that has stood in Chico, northern California, for 156 years, was burned to the ground after a massive fire swept through the estate in December. Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, appeared before a judge for the first time on Tuesday and was arraigned for targeting the historical landmark for arson, SF Gate reported. In the early morning hours of December 11, 2024, at around 3.15am, the city symbol was engulfed in flames - collapsing within minutes of fire crews arriving on the scene. Containing the fire was particularly challenging due to the sheer age of the mansion. The next week, officials said that fire investigators determined that they discovered 'clear indicators pointing to an intentional act,' KTLA News reported. Deputy Fire Chief Chris Zinko said that a person was seen leaving the area after the blaze began. California State Parks tirelessly worked with other state and local law enforcement to make an arrest, using extensive surveillance footage and license plate readers to track down Carlson. Kevin Alexander Carlson, 30, was arrested for setting fire to one of California 's most historic mansions in an act said to be motivated by a 'left-wing' and 'anti-colonialism' political ideology The Bidwell Mansion, a stunning building that has stood in Chico, California for 156 years, was ultimately destroyed from the massive blaze on December 11, 2024 At around 3:15am, the city symbol was engulfed in flames - collapsing within minutes of fire crews arriving on the scene Mike Ramsey, the Butte County District Attorney, held a press conference following Carlson's arraignment outlining the investigation that led to his arrest. He said Carlson visited the mansion, parked in the lot and walked the grounds in what Ramsey called a 'scouting trip'. Later that day, Carlson allegedly drove more than 20 miles south of Oroville where he made multiple cash purchases of duct tape, $20 worth of gasoline and a gas canister from Home Depot. Footage from Home Depot captured Carlson buying the gas cannister, which was allegedly used to accelerate the fire - possibly through a Molotov cocktail, ABC 7 reported. Additionally, he is accused of of purchasing a claw hammer, work gloves, black trash bags and a barbeque lighter while in Chico. Shortly before the fire started, Carlson was captured on tape leaving his apartment and parking his silver Toyota Highlander just north of the mansion. As he approached the estate, the footage showed him carrying a 'rather large object... inside what looks like a black plastic trash bag... and another bag, a smaller bag, on his right shoulder', Ramsey said. At around 2.05am, a 'shadowy figure' seemingly appeared on the mansion's front porch. Just three minutes later, Carlson was captured on video fleeing the scene back toward his car. Ramsey noted how the evidence indicated that Carlson broke a window before pouring gasoline inside the mansion and on the porch - igniting the blaze. Portions of the home collapsed within minutes of fire crews arriving on the scene, and before long the sprawling mansion was completely gutted. After burning for about an hour, there was a 'catastrophic explosion,' which Ramsey attributed to a natural gas leak from a severed line in the estate's basement. Investigators were ultimately able to identify Carlson using license plate readers along with the make and model of his car - which had a burned-out tail light. Ramsey revealed that they had reviewed hundreds of vehicles before finding the one that matched the description of the car seen near the Bidwell Mansion on the night of the fire, ABC 7 reported. Additionally, he disclosed that Carlson had visited the mansion in April of 2024 with his license plates removed to 'avoid detection from the license plate readers'. When Carlson was arrested last week as he left a restaurant in Chico, Ramsey recalled finding a hammer, duct tape, gloves and a lighter inside his car - all of the items that matched what was seen on surveillance footage. Mike Ramsey, the Butte County District Attorney, noted how Carlson allegedly visited the mansion, parked in the lot and walked the grounds in what Ramsey called a 'scouting trip' Containing the fire was particularly challenging due to the sheer age of the mansion However, the gas cannister was missing from his vehicle. As for motive, Ramsey said that there was 'an indication of some political ideology'. The information was based off of Carlson's interest in TikTok accounts, which Ramsey described as 'Marxist and very left-wing' with an 'anti-colonialism bent'. Ramsey also added that interviews with the suspect's family members suggest that the act may have been politically motivated, ABC 7 reported. But beyond the TikTok accounts, Carlson 'has almost no online presence, doesn't appear to currently have a job and seems to have very few relations in his apartment complex,' Ramsey said. Investigators are now looking for further insights into his motive as they review multiple cell phones, a laptop and other 'electronic media' confiscated from his home. Carlson appeared in court for the first time on Tuesday without an attorney and instead requested a court-appointed lawyer. He is facing felony arson charges with an enhancement for the alleged use of accelerants. Ramsey noted how the evidence indicated that Carlson broke a window before pouring gasoline inside the mansion and on the porch As for motive, Ramsey said that there was 'an indication of some political ideology' - citing his TikTok interests which were described as 'Marxist and very left-wing' with an 'anti-colonialism bent' Carlson faces felony arson charges and faces up to 11 years in prison if convicted due to the aggravating factors involved - such as the use of gasoline - which tacks on an additional five years Despite willful arson usually only carrying a six-year sentence, Carlson faces up to 11 years in prison if convicted due to the aggravating factors involved - such as the use of gasoline - which tacks on an additional five years. Carlson is set to appear back in court on Wednesday at 11:30am. The mansion was named for John Bidwell, a controversial figure in California history who founded the city of Chico but came under renewed scrutiny in recent years for his treatment of Indigenous tribes. It was built for Bidwell in 1865 and took three years to complete, and at the time was one of the most opulent properties on the West Coast. Across 26 rooms, the home had many of the most luxurious amenities of the day, such as running water and plumbing. The mansion had also been a California state park since 1964. Several months before the fire, a nearby historical plaque was vandalized with 'f*** the colonizers'. Labour is committing education vandalism with an attack on academy school freedoms that paves the way for pay cuts for top performing teachers, MPs warned last night. In a move that critics said could abolish academies in all but name, the Government is proposing sweeping changes to restrict their independence. The Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which will be debated by MPs today, will end academy freedoms over teachers pay, recruitment and the curriculum. It will also restrict the ability of good schools to expand - and even give Whitehall powers to regulate school uniforms. The Tories warned the Bill was a highly ideological, un-evidenced onslaught on school freedoms that would drive down school standards. Writing in todays Mail, shadow education secretary Laura Trott warns that the proposals - designed to make the education system more consistent - will make more schools consistently bad. And she accuses Labour of wanting to keep their union barons happy at the expense of pupils receiving a good education. Ms Trott writes that Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is our very own Miley Cyrus, swinging in on her wrecking ball, and undermining the consensus built over two decades - between successive governments of all parties - that has driven improvements in our schools. Writing in todays Mail, shadow education secretary Laura Trott warns that the proposals - designed to make the education system more consistent - will make more schools consistently bad Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education, is seen in Downing Street today as cabinet meet It will be a return to mediocracy: taking away school freedoms over pay, curriculum and staffing, and no solution for failing schools. It is nothing less than vandalism of our world-leading education system. Academies - which are independent of local authorities - currently have the freedom to set their own pay and conditions for staff, and some academies exceed the national pay scales for teachers. Around 80 per cent of secondary schools and 40 per cent of primary schools are academies or free schools. But under the new legislation, all teachers will be part of the same core pay and conditions framework whether they work in a local authority-run school or an academy. Tens of thousands of teachers who work in academies which exceed the national pay scales could have their benefits and remuneration put at risk by the new law when it comes into effect, the Tories said. The Bill will also require all state schools - including academies - to teach the national curriculum, and also end academies ability to hire teachers - such as from overseas - who do not have Qualified Teacher Status. It will also allow councils to open new schools which are not academies, and it will end the forced academisation of schools run by local authorities which are identified as a concern by Ofsted. Tory MP Neil OBrien, the shadow education minister, branded the Bill a disaster. He said: I have worked in politics for 25 years and it is one of the most dumb and tragic things I can remember. Its an act of pure vandalism, abolishing academies in all but name. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson speak with children at Perry Hall Primary school in Orpington, during the first day of the new school year, on September 2, 2024 in London The Conservatives will table a reasoned amendment to the Bill today, when MPs will debate it at second reading, rejecting the legislation. Leora Cruddas, chief executive of the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), warned that some of the proposals in this bill could reduce school trusts abilities to respond to local circumstances and keep on making the improvements needed so that children can get the best chance in life. The Bill potentially risks making it harder for schools to improve by tying the hands of teachers and school leaders, she said. Instead we need to ensure that the Bill creates a system that enables teachers and leaders in all types of schools to do what is best for children. The measures on academies are contained among plans to require all councils to hold a register of children who are not in school. The Bill also contains measures to give every child a unique number and remove the automatic right for parents to educate children at home. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said last night: Keeping children safe will always be my first duty as education secretary, but we can only truly do that if we know where our children are. The sad reality is that at the moment there are thousands of children hidden from sight. This government will make no apologies for doing whatever is necessary to keep children out of harms way, and I will not stand by while some young people fall through the cracks, left without a good education and vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. This landmark Bill is a crucial step forward in our mission to protect all children, while also supporting parents by putting more money in their pockets as we deliver our Plan for Change and give all children the best start in life. A Labour spokesman said: It is appalling that the Conservatives are attempting to block this governments plans to keep the most at-risk children in our country safe from harm. On Wednesday, Conservative MPs have a choice to back our measures to protect children from grooming, exploitation and abuse, instead of playing politics with the safety of vulnerable children. A married prison officer who was jailed yesterday for having sex with an inmate has been placed in a wing alongside serial baby murderer Lucy Letby and Sara Sharif's killer stepmother. Linda De Sousa Abreu, who turned 31 last month, was yesterday given a 15 month jail term having previously admitted misconduct after an X-rated clip in a jail cell at Wandsworth Prison went viral on social media. It is believed she was taken straight from Iselworth Crown Court to HMP Bronzefield, in Surrey, and placed in House Block 4 where cells have en-suite showers. An insider told The Sun that prisoners in the wing 'get more space, a private courtyard, and all the cells have bigger beds with showers inside the room'. It is home to some of Britain's most high-profile female prisoners, including evil stepmother Beinash Batool who was jailed for murdering 10-year-old Sara. Sian Hedges, who was found guilty last January of killing her 18 month old son Alfie Phillips, and Michelle Smith, who poisoned her six-month-old daughter Amy with adult painkillers in Swansea in 2007, are also on the block. The insider said: 'They spend so much time there together. They all eat together unless they choose to eat in their cell on their own. 'Even though they are in there for such horrible crimes, it is almost like they are being protected.' Linda De Sousa Abreu, who turned 31 last month, was given a 15 month jail term having previously admitted misconduct after an X-rated clip in a jail cell at Wandsworth Prison went viral on social media She was jailed after footage showed her in her full prison officer uniform having sex with inmate Linton Weirich, 36, as her discarded radio constantly crackles with messages from colleagues It is believed De Sousa Abreu was taken straight to HMP Bronzefield where she is sharing a wing with baby murderer Lucy Letby (left) and Sara Sharif's evil killer stepmother Beinash Batool (right) The latest report in 2022 on the Category A prison by the HM Inspectorate of Prisons describes the block as being 'more open and lighter' than the other wings. 'The spurs did not have gates, so women could move around more easily, and it was quieter. All women had in-cell showers,' it reads. 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. She was jailed after footage showed her in her full prison officer uniform having sex with inmate Linton Weirich, 36, as her discarded radio constantly crackles with messages from colleagues. She will likely serve less than a third of the time behind bars. 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. 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!' Linton Weirich (pictured with his partner) is the inmate who was filmed having sex with a female guard in a cell De Sousa Abreu (pictured) had sex with an inmate on video in HMP Wandsworth 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 The latest report in 2022 on the Category A prison by the HM Inspectorate of Prisons describes the block at HMP Bronzefield as being 'more open and lighter' than the other wings The above pictures shows a wing inside HMP Bronzefield 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.' The second incident took place on the same date, June 25 last year, and also relates to Weirich. It 'relates to oral sex' and was 'partially recorded on her own prison-issued body-worn camera'. Angela Rayner has confirmed that the Government is looking at watering down voter ID laws despite the elections watchdog defending them. The Deputy Prime Minister told MPs that electoral fraud is a very minor problem and that Labour wants to make sure people can exercise their right to vote. Her comments came after the left-leaning Institute for Public Policy Research think tank called for the relaxation or removal of photo ID requirements, prompting speculation ministers will take up the recommendation as part of wider reforms that will also give 16 and 17-year-olds the vote. Yet the heads of the Electoral Commission regulator said today that Britain had been very unusual in not previously requiring voters to prove their identities at the ballot box and the new system only needed to be improved rather than scrapped. Ms Rayner, who is also Communities Secretary, was asked in a select committee hearing about foreign funding for political parties amid reports that Elon Musk could give $100million to Reform UK. She replied that Labour had been looking at the transparency of donations while in opposition but then went on: The one thing I would say is that I think in all of the reports that weve had in the past in terms of electoral fraud is very, very, very, very minor and therefore we want to enfranchise people into exercising their vote and well look at voter ID as part of that and supporting that process. But equally we want to see transparency in the process of where donations come from and people are very clear about that and that the rules are followed. She told the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee: It wasnt within the Kings Speech this time. I certainly would want to do that as soon as possible and certainly before the next general election so people are very clear and have confidence in our electoral system and in the transparency and so that people can exercise their right to vote. The Deputy Prime Minister - pictured here giving evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee at the House of Commons on January 7 - told MPs that electoral fraud is a very minor problem and that Labour wants to make sure people can exercise their right to vote The heads of the Electoral Commission regulator said today that Britain had been very unusual in not previously requiring voters to prove their identities at the ballot box and the new system only needed to be improved rather than scrapped (file image) Yet appearing earlier before the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, Electoral Commission chairman John Pullinger insisted the voter ID system did not need to be scrapped. Pressed on whether personation or fraud at the ballot box was seen as a problem by the watchdog before the Tories proposed to legislate for voter ID, he replied: We were very unusual in not having any check on the person turning up to vote. The Electoral Commission for about 20 years was saying we need to do something about this. Labour MP and former pollster Chris Curtis said: I am not convinced at all that your recommendation to change to voter ID in any way balanced the risk management when you made that strong recommendation in 2014. How can you reassure me that you did correctly balance the risks against the very very small number of people who were enacting personification? Mr Pullinger replied: The position were in is better than many feared it would be but not as good as it needs to be. We have not seen for many years now any issue at all with voter ID in Northern Ireland and we expect with the changes that we have made that the same will be true in the rest of the UK as well. There was a real concern that we had that this would be extremely difficult to administer, likely to result in long queues at polling stations because it would be very slow getting through... that did not happen. Mr Curtis went on to say it seemed very strange that the Electoral Commission had backed voter ID a decade ago given the lack of fraud or fears of fraud. Mr Pullinger replied: People are expected to provide some form of verification of who they are in so many other settings. Many people are surprised we didnt have it. Talking to many polling station staff they were surprised.. The Electoral Commission has recommended that the Government expand the list of acceptable forms of verification to include digital forms of ID as well travel cards (file image) Luke Taylor, a Lib Dem MP on the committee, asked: Do you think that the impact of voter ID was a proportionate response to the problem it was trying to solve? Vijay Rangarajan, the Electoral Commissions Chief Executive, replied: A small group of people didnt bring voter ID to the polling station. Most of those went away, got ID, came back and were able to vote. But some didnt vote - 0.08 per cent didnt vote, about 16,000 people therefore at this general election were unable to vote when they should have been able to. So its had some effect. He said a free type of photo ID offered by the Government, known as the Voter Authority Certificate, was surprisingly underused with only 210,000 applications between January 2023 and last summers election, and only 26,000 were used out of 40m voters. As a result the Electoral Commission has recommended that the Government expand the list of acceptable forms of verification to include digital forms of ID as well travel cards. But he admitted voter ID has put some people off with 4 per cent of people who said they didnt vote claiming it played a part in their decision. Having made the change and Parliament having legislated for this change, people are getting used to it, most did bring some form of voter ID. We might have some increase in trust in the election that you actually had to show an ID. Hopefully this will then very much become like Northern Ireland where it is taken for granted that you will bring a form of voter ID for an election. A Louisiana teacher who was accused of sexting two teenage students was framed, officials shockingly announced Monday. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office said it opened an investigation into an unidentified male teacher at Central Lafourche High School in December, after residents claimed he was sending inappropriate messages to a 16-year-old female student, the Times-Picayune reports. Detectives soon discovered she and a 15-year-old friend, who also claimed to have received the inappropriate messaged, conversed about them online. The initial investigation uncovered the messages, pointing to the teacher's culpability, according to WBRZ. But over the next two weeks, officers questioned everyone who was allegedly involved and obtained search warrants for the teenager's cellphones and texting platform account information. They then determined that the teens fabricated the messages and the teacher's profile on the online messaging app to make it appear as if he were having the conversations. The girls would then share screenshots with friends in an attempt to frame the teacher, the sheriff's office claims. Detectives have since concluded that the teacher had not set any of the messages to the girls, and was actually a victim of a crime himself. A Central Lafourche High School (pictured) teacher accused of sexting two teenage students was framed by them, officials announced Sheriff Craig Webre and Lafourche Parish School District Superintendent Jarod Martin spoke out against the scheme, with the latter saying district officials were 'shocked and appalled to learn of the accusations' One of the students even allegedly admitted their involvement in the scheme, deputies said. Both girls, who have not been identified as they are minors, were charged Monday with one count each of false swearing for the purpose of violating public health of safety, cyberstalking and online impersonation. They have since been released into their parents' custody and were placed under electronic monitoring. 'Our juvenile detectives are diligent and take claims of inappropriate behavior very seriously. They are, however, equally serious about false claims,' Sheriff Craig Webre said. 'Someone's life can be instantly ruined by a false allegation and I am proud that our investigators were able to get to the bottom of this. 'Technology has made it very easy for people to try to manipulate the truth, but technology also makes it easy for investigators to ultimately find the truth,' he added. Lafourche Parish School District Superintendent Jarod Martin also said he and other school officials are 'shocked and appalled to learn of the accusations of two of our students. 'The allegations against one of our teachers were false and malicious, and we appreciate the efficiency of investigators in uncovering the source of these messages,' he said. 'Such attacks on a teacher's credibility and reputation are concerning and can inhibit their ability to effectively educate children.' Martin added that the district is 'committed to investigating all allegations of misconduct in order to provide a safe environment conductive to learning and working for all of our students and staff.' Officials in Los Angeles have issued a dire warning as a massive inferno makes its way across the city - with hundreds of residents fleeing the Pacific Palisades. The California Department of Forest and Fire Protection warned residents Tuesday night there is an 'immediate threat' to their lives. 'This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW,' the department said. 'The area is lawfully closed to public access.' The evacuation notice has caused a gridlock on Sunset Boulevard as LA residents flee, leaving behind their mansions while the fire spread to 1,260 acres. But parts of the Pacific Coast Highway have been shut down due to the fire, forcing some residents to abandon their vehicles, the New York Times reports. Meanwhile, more than 100 firefighters and strike teams are now working to battle the fire, which only ignited at around 10.30am Tuesday, Los Angeles Firefighter David Ortiz said. It was fueled by what California authorities called 'life-threatening, destructive' winds, which helped it spread quickly across the area. The fire blazing through Los Angeles spread to 1,260 acres late Tuesday More than 100 firefighters and strike teams are now working to battle the fire, which only ignited at around 10.30am Tuesday As the fire spread, Police Academy star Steve Guttenberg described how people were abandoning their cars, making it difficult for firetrucks to make it up the road. He urged fellow neighbors to leave their keys in their car if they're leaving their vehicle behind 'so guys like me can move your car.' 'We really need people to move their cars,' he told KTLA. 'So if you leave your car on Palisades Drive, leave the key in there.' The actor said he had friends who can't get out of their homes due to vehicles left behind. X user Jonathan Vigliotti also posted a video of a car burning uncontrollably in a driveway. 'Come on, guys!' he called, his voice filled with fear. 'We got to go!' 'We were in a neighborhood as it went up in flames. Mass panic in the streets, and the worst of the wind will hit the Palisades Fire tonight,' he wrote on X. Will Adams watches as flames from the Palisades Fire close in on his property The California Department of Forest and Fire Protection urged residents to 'LEAVE NOW' Some residents were forced to abandon their vehicles as they tried to flee A man is seen abandoning his car in gridlock traffic while trying to evacuate Other residents shared the horrors they faced, with Mina telling DailyMail.com she and her daughter were lucky to drive out of the city with their clothes on their backs and their two small dogs. She described the scene as 'chaotic' and 'frightening' with people running, sirens blasting and planes full of ocean water buzzing overhead. 'People are parking their cars on the side of the road, getting out and running for their lives!' Mina told DailyMail.com. 'People are literally running down the sidewalks pulling kids by their hands and carrying Louis Vuitton luggage. 'One guy was running with two Gucci suitcases and a house plant. It is like something out of a disaster movie.' A Los Angeles firefighter drags a hose past cars trying to evacuate a neighborhood being threatened by the Palisades wildfire In an effort to help contain the fire, Southern California Edison (SCE) shut off power to Cuthbert, Galahad, and parts of Malibu In an effort to help contain the fire, Southern California Edison (SCE) shut off power to Cuthbert, Galahad, and parts of Malibu. The company expected the power to be out for at least eight hours, but noted it could be longer if crews need daylight to visibly inspect power lines and equipment. The inspection is required before SCE will restore power. More than 42,800 residents across California were without power Tuesday evening, nearly 29,000 of whom have their power provided by SCE, according to poweroutage.us. Still, the inferno forced President Joe Biden to cancel an event where he planned to announce the protection of hundreds of thousands of acres of California lands from oil and gas drilling. The sudden change came after Biden flew to the West Coast after visiting New Orleans to honor victims of the terror attack there, as he tries to pick up the pace as the door closes on his time in office. Biden got into 'the Beast,' the presidential limo, late Tuesday morning, only to exit ten minutes later and enter his hotel amid the weather concerns. A raid to find dangerous Venezuelan gang members holed up in a Colorado apartment is now the target of an investigation by the ultra liberal ACLU. The American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado claims the Aurora Police Department broke state law during a police operation Dec. 17 at the Edge of Lowry Apartments. Members of the notorious South American gang Tren de Aragua kidnapped and tortured a couple for hours, police said. When the victims went to the police for help, local cops descended on the property, a well known TdA stronghold- the same apartment that made national headlines in August when armed mobsters stormed a unit to terrorize residents. Aurora PD enlisted the help of Immigration and Customs Enforcement that day, turning 19 Venezuelans over to the feds who held them on immigration charges. Eventually, eight of them were charged by the Aurora Police Department for kidnapping. However, the ACLU is leaning on a Centennial State law that bans local cops from turning migrants over to federal immigration authorities. It's a common practice allowed in many other places. 'Whether APDs asserted law enforcement objectives were legitimate or pretextual, the officers executed the raid in a manner that appears to have exceeded their authority under Colorado law,' ACLU of Colorados Legal Director Tim Macdonald told Denver TV station KDVR. Aurora's police department is under fire, as the ACLU has accused it for violating state law for turning over migrants to Immigration and Customs Enforcement As part of its investigation into the TdA raid, the ACLU is demanding to view body-worn camera footage from officers. Three adult residents of the apartments who had no involvement in the kidnapping were taken into custody, DailyMail.com reported previously. The Venezuelan migrants, who are in the United States legally, were later released by ICE. But local police insist the other 16 people taken into custody are TdA gangsters. After the December raid on the Edge of Lowry apartments, Aurora police released photos of guns seized at the property, including a hidden compartment behind a shower wall meant to conceal the illegal weapons. Tren de Aragua, the same transnational crime organization unleashing a wave of crime throughout the US, took over three apartment complexes in Aurora in 2024. The Venezuelan thugs have been victimizing other migrants, demanding money from them and beating or hurting those who don't comply. Empty apartment units were turned into drug and prostitution dens where migrant women and children where pimped out to drug users so the gang could generate cash. 'This is ridiculous. The ACLU wants to investigate APD and ICE for raiding the TdA gang apartments at The Edge at Lowry because APD and ICE worked together to stop violent crime. The ACLU isn't protecting Americans,' tweeted former Colorado ICE director John Fabbricatore. The Edge of Lowry Apartment in Aurora, Colorado is one of three apartments taken over by Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua A hidden compartment in the wall at the Edge of Lowry apartments shows where suspect TdA members hid guns so police would not find them Edge of Lowry is the only apartment complex currently in the grips of Tren de Aragua, however the Whispering Pines Apartments and Aspen Groves had been under the gangs control in 2024 The ACLU has previously taken other law enforcement agencies to court and won, like its 2024 victory over the Teller County Sheriffs Office for housing migrants on ICE's behalf. Regardless how the ALCU's investigation into Aurora police turns out, state laws continue to hinder cops in the Rocky Mountain state from dealing with crime, a former cop turned Congressman explained. 'That's honestly why I'm not a cop anymore,' Republican Congressman Gabe Evan told DailyMail.com of his time working with the Arvada Police Department. 'I was a cop up until 2022 when the crime in Colorado just got so bad, and I couldn't make a difference because of how I'd been handcuffed by just awful policies.' Colorado voters also banned ICE agents from showing up to courts in order to make arrests. 'When Colorado took that hard left turn, it was a matter of weeks before the (Mexican) cartels figured it out, before these transnational criminal organizations found out about it, and they moved to set up shop in Colorado specifically to take advantage on our very soft-on-crime laws,' Evans added. 'Law enforcement has just incredible liability and red-tape in order of them to be able to do anything in Colorado, and so you have not just our home-grown criminals taking advantage of that, but now you have the big boys.' A new podcast that replaced 'The Joe Rogan Experience' as the number one most popular audio show on Spotify last week covers a highly controversial topic. 'The Telepathy Tapes,' co-hosted by journalist and filmmaker Ky Dickens and psychiatrist Dr Diane Hennacy Powell, explores the 'profound abilities' of people with autism who can't speak. Those abilities, according to Dickens and Dr. Powell, include telepathy, access to infinite knowledge and the power to visit heaven. In episode one, listeners are introduced to a nonverbal autistic girl from Mexico named Mia, whose telepathic abilities have '100 percent accuracy,' her family says. Mia's family explains that she can communicate mind-to-mind with her mother, and Dr. Powell leads Mia through a series of exercises to test her mind-reading skills. She is asked to use a letter board to spell out the number or word her mom thinks of and name the correct number or word every time. According to Dickens, the fact that she could do this in a controlled environment suggests she can read her mother's mind. But not all experts are convinced. Despite mixed reactions, the podcast has earned a perfect five-star rating from more than 1,400 reviewers since debuting on September 3, 2024. In episode one, listeners are introduced to a nonverbal autistic girl from Mexico named Mia, whose telepathic abilities have '100 percent accuracy,' her family says Around 1 in 36 children has been identified with autism in the US, according to the CDC's most recent estimate. A 2018 estimate found that only one in 44 children in the US had been diagnosed with the disorder, suggesting that the prevalence of autism has risen in recent years. Experts have yet to determine exactly why the rate is rising, but possible explanations include increased awareness, screening and diagnostic capabilities, genetic factors and environmental factors. What's more, experts are still working to fully understand autism and its underlying causes. On The Telepathy Tapes, Dickens shares that she has a brother with high-functioning autism, which partly sparked her curiosity about the exceptional abilities of those with the disorder. While listening to a different podcast that covers topics like astrology, intuition and mediumship, Dickens was introduced to Dr. Powell and her work, which focuses on the supposed 'telepathic' skills of autistic children. Dr. Powell, who earned her medical degree at Johns Hopkins University and former faculty member at Harvard Medical School, has staked her career on the claim that nonspeaking autistic kids are capable of an otherworldly way of communicating. Even though there is currently no accepted scientific evidence to support this, both Dickens and Dr. Powell are convinced the phenomenon is real. The girl is asked to use a letter board (pictured) to spell out the number or word her mom thinks of and name the correct number or word every time The podcast replaced 'The Joe Rogan Experience' as the number one most-listened-to audio show on Spotify last week They started The Telepathy Tapes as a way to raise awareness and give a voice to families of autistic children who allegedly exhibit these supernatural abilities. 'If I had a million dollars, I'd want to open a healing and education center where nonspeakers could work with the best minds in science and math and, you know, healthcare, so they could heal the planet and people and relationships and animals,' Dickens said in one episode of the podcast. Dickens claims that all of the tests conducted in the research were designed to prevent any sort of cheating, and states that video clips from the experiment are available on the show's website if listeners would like to see for themselves. All of the tests follow the same basic formula. For the case with Mia, her mother is given a thought to hold in her mind, like a number from a random number generator or a word she flipped to in a book. While she had 100 percent accuracy with her mother, Mia fails to replicate her abilities in tests with her father. That comes as she has written in her diary that she can read everybody's mind, but you have to believe in her for her to do it. In another test, Mia spells out the word 'pirata,' or 'pirate' in Spanish, which is the correct answer to what her mother was thinking. But Jarry believes her mother could have influenced her response by controlling movements of her face or using fingers to guide the girl. 'The mother's influence cannot be ruled out,' writes science communicator Jonathan Jarry in an article for McGill University's Office for Science and Society. 'The video clip posted to the website clearly shows the mom not only holding the letter board in front of Mia but holding Mias jaw as Mia points to the board,' he explains. I listened through The Telepathy Tapes podcast and I've now also (payed for and) watched all of the videos on the @TelepathyTapes website, some of them many times. As someone who has long had an interest in illusion and deception, I can tell you that some of the experiments pic.twitter.com/6ZkQjq5Blv joel (@J__O__E__L) January 5, 2025 'In a different test, Mias mother is touching Mias forehead during the spelling, where it would be easy to subtly press down whenever Mias finger hovers over the right number,' he adds. Even Dr. Powell acknowledges the limitations of this type of experiment, telling Dickens that none of the tests they performed with Mia would be accepted by the scientific community. Dr. Powell's website states: 'Proof that the phenomenon Im witnessing is telepathy would require the elimination of any possibilities of subtle cueing. 'This means being able to test the child and parent/clinician in separate rooms, or with a larger divider separating them.' Because autistic children are extremely sensitive to change and new people, studying them in this way has been largely unattainable, Dr. Powell's website claims. 'However, using behavioral strategies, we can work towards the ideal protocol before filming the next set of experiments,' it reads. Despite clear weak spots in the evidence to support Dickens and Dr. Powell's hypothesis, many listeners have become convinced that nonspeaking autistic children do possess supernatural powers, including Joe Rogan. Despite the new competition for the number one podcast in the nation, Rogan said he is actually a fan of the The Telepathy Tapes. On a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, he said he listens to the show, and believes 'some telepathy is real.' 'I'm only on episode two, but it's really fascinating man,' he told American actor and stand-up comedian Duncan Trussell, who appeared as a guest on his show. Other listeners have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the show's wild claims, with some saying they believe in the evidence Dickens and Dr. Powell present. 'Learned about The Telepathy Tapes two days ago and just finished the final episode. If taken seriously, and if our species can find enough collective humility to listen, implications of these studies will radically shift our paradigm and propel us into a transcendental stage,' one X user posted. Another shared a more skeptical final take. 'I listened through The Telepathy Tapes podcast and I've now also (payed for and) watched all of the videos on the website, some of them many times,' they posted. 'As someone who has long had an interest in illusion and deception, I can tell you that some of the experiments look like straight up parlor tricks. In one, you can even see the subject's mother flashing the answer to him.' Whether you believe in The Telepathy Tapes' claims or not, it's undeniable that this podcast has gripped the attention of Spotify users. After soaring to the top of the charts at the end of 2024, the hosts announced they will be airing a second season, this time focusing on non-autistic 'telepaths.' If you ask Jarry, the show's success underscores something fundamental about human nature: 'We all want to believe.' The world's first 'city of the future' is nearly ready to welcome its first residents. Developed by car maker Toyota, 'Woven City' sits at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan and features at least 11 'smart' homes powered by hydrogen, AI and other technologies. CEO Akio Toyoda said the $10 billion utopia would serve as a 'lab' for innovators to develop the technologies of tomorrow. The city is poised to welcome its first 100 residents, which will be employees, this fall, who will live there though they'll need to already be Toyota employees and work on developing experimental tech for the company. The program will then expand to 2,200 more people, who will include innovators and their families, parents and pets. Revealing the development at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Toyota unveiled some of the technologies that will be worked on in the city. Those will included 'drones that safely escort you home at night,' interactive pet robots to assist the elderly and robots to assist with everyday tasks. 'Autonomous driving will be among the many technologies we intend to develop at Woven City,' Toyoda said at CES. The above image, released by Toyota, shows the completed area of Woven City A flying self-driving robotaxi developed by Joby (pictured) will be used to ferry people around the futuristic city 'Among other things, we hope to use AI to help expand the reach of Woven Cityallowing people to virtually interact with the city and its projects.' In the pipeline is a flying self-driving robotaxi made with Joby that has completed more than 300 fully automated flights. The company is also working on a racing car that can drift autonomously. He said they were also planning to move residents' families, pets and relations into the city. 'Woven City is more than just a place to live, work, and play,' Toyoda stated at CES. 'It's a living laboratory where the residents are willing participants, giving inventors the opportunity to freely test their ideas in a secure, real-life setting.' 'Woven City is a place where people can invent and develop all kinds of new products and ideas.' The city is now set to enter Phase 2 of construction, which will add further buildings to prepare it to welcome new residents. 'Woven City' sits at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan The city is poised to welcome its first 100 residents in this fall before expanding to 2,200 people, who will include innovators and their families, parents and pets. The streets will be filled with self-driving taxis Pictured is what the smart-homes will look like in this futuristic city The city's name, Woven City, is in reference to Toyota's start as a loom manufacturing company, and is being built on a former Toyota factory outside Susono City, home to 50,000 people. And the first residents will be called 'Weavers.' The CEO told the assembled audience: 'Do I expect Woven City will make any money? Perhaps not.' But he added it could also be an incubator for the technologies of the future that could end up in every home. Revealing the progress in a press release, Toyota said: 'Woven City is a test course for mobility where 'inventors' can develop, test, and validate innovative products and services. 'By leveraging Toyota's decades-long manufacturing expertise Woven City offers a unique environment equipped with the tools and services needed to tackle societal challenges and create future-focused value.' Toyota first revealed it was planning to build the city at CES in 2021, as the company shifts from a carmaker to a 'mobility' business. READ MORE: Testosterone exposure in the womb may affect how much we drink If you've ever had an argument with the opposite sex, it may be tempting to conclude that men and women just aren't on the same wavelength. Now, a study not only suggests this is indeed the case, but that males and females really are wired differently from birth. In what's described as one of the biggest studies of newborn brain anatomy, scientists performed head scans of more than 500 babies. Overall, the female babies had more grey matter in their brains, while the males had more white matter. Grey matter is mostly found on the outer-most layer of the brain, or cortex, and plays a big role in mental functions, such as memory, emotions and processing information. Meanwhile, white matter, the paler tissue towards the centre, speeds up signals between the cells and plays a critical role in helping the body process information. The researchers, from the University of Cambridge, suggest that these sex-based differences extend into adulthood. However, whether there's significant differences between male and female brains is a hotly-debated matter. Sex differences in brain structure are present at birth, reveals a University of Cambridge study. The researchers suggest that these sex-based differences extend into adulthood (file photo) Pictured, these four scans are different angles of the brain. The highlighted regions show brain areas that are significantly larger in females (in red) and in males (in blue) after controlling for total brain volume 'Several of the sex differences we found at birth do, indeed, appear to extend into adulthood,' lead author Yumnah Khan told MailOnline. Some evidence already suggests that women have more grey matter in their brains than men, but whether this difference exists since birth has been 'underexplored'. To find out more, the team studied data from the Developing Human Connectome Project, a collaboration between King's College London, Imperial College London and the University of Oxford. They looked at sex differences in brain volumes in 514 newborns aged 0 to 28 days (236 females and 278 males). Infants had received a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan which uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. On average, male brains tended to be greater in volume than female brains, even after sex differences in birth weight were taken into account. 'We took additional factors into account, such as birth weight, to ensure that these differences are specific to the brain and not due to general size differences between the sexes,' said co-author Dr Alex Tsompanidis at the University of Cambridge. Looking specifically at grey matter, females on average showed larger volumes in grey matter areas related to memory and emotional regulation. Grey matter is mostly found on outer-most layer of the brain, or cortex, and serves to process information Grey matter is mostly found on the outer-most layer of the brain, or cortex, and plays a big role in mental functions, such as memory, emotions and processing information. Meanwhile, white matter, the paler tissue towards the centre, speeds up signals between the cells What is white matter? White matter constitutes the neural network, about 160,000 kilometres in length, that transmits signals in the form of nerve impulses. It is crucial to the regulation of internal communication between the different areas of the brain. This network is designed to analyse and transmit information in a consistent and efficient way. This is why white matter is described as containing the brain's own 'superhighways.' Advertisement Meanwhile, males on average had larger volumes in grey matter areas involved in sensory processing and motor control. Sensory processing describes the way the body receives and interprets incoming stimuli through our senses, while motor control is simply our ability to regulate or direct our movements. So females may be better at recalling and processing memories, while having more emotional awareness. Meanwhile, males may have a better sense of direction and more awareness of our physical surroundings. It's thought these differences develop in the womb but may get more pronounced after birth. 'Because these sex differences are evident so soon after birth, they might in part reflect biological sex differences during prenatal brain development,' said Khan. '[These may] then interact with environmental experiences over time to shape further sex differences in the brain.' The study published in the journal Biology of Sex Differences is described as the largest to date to investigate brain differences of newborns. Females may be better at recalling and processing memories, while having more emotional awareness, while males may have a better sense of direction and more awareness of our physical surroundings (file photo) It counts Simon Baron-Cohen among its authors, director of the University of Cambridge's Autism Research Centre and cousin of the comedian and actor Sacha. More than two decades ago, he proposed the extreme male brain theory for autism two decades ago, suggesting that men were better at 'systemising' by finding patterns and rules, while women were better at empathising. 'These differences do not imply the brains of males and females are better or worse,' said study author Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, director of the University of Cambridge's Autism Research Centre. 'This research may be helpful in understanding other kinds of neurodiversity, such as the brain in children who are later diagnosed as autistic, since this is diagnosed more often in males.' The question of whether male and female brains significantly differ in adulthood has long divided researchers. Back in 2021, experts at the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science reported that brain anatomy between the sexes hardly differs at all. 'Men and women's brains do differ slightly, but the key finding is that these distinctions are due to brain size, not sex or gender,' said lead author Dr Lise Eliot. 'Sex differences in the brain are tiny and inconsistent, once individuals' head size is accounted for.' However, a 2013 study at University of Pennsylvania found 'striking' differences in the neural wiring of men and women. Meanwhile, a 2017 study found women have 'more active brains than men', especially in the prefrontal cortex, involved with focus and impulse control. Tens of millions of Americans have been put under weather warnings as deadly winds head for the West Coast and an Arctic blast freezes the East. Officials have warned residents in Southern California to brace for Santa Ana winds of up to 100mph that could increase the risk of wildfires and power outages. Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, Ventura and San Bernardino counties can expect 50 to 70mph gusts, with wind gusts up to 100mph possible. 'This will be a dangerous and potentially destructive windstorm from the Santa Monica mountains to Hollywood, Burbank, Beverly Hills and Malibu,' AccuWeather Senior Director of Forecasting Operations Dan DePodwin said. AccuWeather meteorologists expect the winds to die down on Thursday as the storm driving them moves away from Southern California and evolves into a cross-country winter storm later in the week. 'As the storm emerges in the South Central states late in the week, it will merge with the cold air in the Plains, producing wintery weather across the region,' AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said. The storm's path may extend as far east as Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York City this weekend, delivering snow and disrupting travel. Meanwhile, the eastern half of the US has also been told to brace for bitterly cold temperatures that will linger over the course of next week, as waves of Arctic air surge as far south as the Gulf Coast. Temperatures could plunge up to 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit below average from the northern Plains and Midwest to the interior Southeast through the first two weeks of January, AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Duffus said. As of Tuesday, the combined impact of an Arctic blast and Winter Storm Blair had killed at least six people, including one victim who was found frozen to death at a bus stop in Houston, Texas. And more than 200,000 customers are still without power in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia. Southern California is bracing for a major Santa Ana wind event on Tuesday that will blast the region high-speed winds, increase wildfire risk and may trigger outages The winds to die down on Thursday as the storm driving them moves away from Southern California and evolves into a cross-country winter storm later in the week In Southern California, gusty winds could bring down tree limbs and power lines, and utility crews will conduct public safety power shut offs to minimize the risk of downed lines that can spark a wildfire, adding to the total number of outages. The windstorm could also damage poorly constructed structures, and transportation especially on major interstates could be impacted by 'dangerous' crosswinds. The region's major airports, such as Los Angeles International (LAX) may also experience delays. Downtown Los Angeles and San Diego will be spared from the strongest winds, but could still experience over 30mph gusts Tuesday night and Wednesday. The Santa Ana winds, also known as the 'devil winds,' are extremely dry, high-speed winds that periodically blow from the inland mountains to the coast in Southern California, peeking over a 12 to 24 hour period. They originate from high-pressure air masses in the Great Basin that push cooler air down toward this part of the Golden State. This weather phenomenon typically takes place in October, but can occur at any time of year if the right conditions arise. These winds significantly increase the risk of wildfire, as the winds dry out vegetation and increase air temperatures. Once a fire sparks, Santa Ana gusts can help it spread rapidly throughout the region. This week, an area of high pressure in the Great Basin has combined with a developing storm in northwestern Mexico to create Tuesday's windstorm, according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Gwen Fieweger. The eastern half of the US has also been told to brace for bitterly cold temperatures that will linger over the course of next week, as waves of Arctic air surge as far south as the Gulf Coast The Santa Ana winds, also known as the 'devil winds,' are extremely dry, high-speed winds that periodically blow from the inland mountains to the coast in Southern California This week, an area of high pressure in the Great Basin has combined with a developing storm in northwestern Mexico to create Tuesday's windstorm Unlike a typical Santa Ana event, strong winds could extend through areas along the Southern California coast that are usually wind-protected. By Thursday, the same storm that will produce the Santa Ana winds is expected to track east and become a cross-country winter storm. This will spread 'heavy and disruptive' snow and ice from western, central, and northern Texas, eastward along the interstates 20 and 40 corridors of the south-central US, including Dallas, AccuWeather reported. Nashville could also receive snow, and an icy mix may impact Atlanta and Charlotte, affecting major airport hubs in the Southeast and likely triggering flight delays and cancellations. Meanwhile, a blast of Arctic air is also heading for the eastern half of the US, AccuWeather meteorologists warned. Through January 12, the cold will send temperatures plummeting to at least 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit below average across much of the central and eastern US. The Gulf Coast and Southeast will begin to see below-freezing overnight lows this week. These temperatures could stretch almost as far south as Miami Some areas could also see more rounds of snow, ice and gusty winds, especially in the Great Lakes and Northeast regions which could receive lake-effect snow The Gulf Coast and Southeast will begin to see below-freezing overnight lows this week. These temperatures could stretch almost as far south as Miami. Central states will drop into the teens and even below-zero overnight temperatures this week, making frostbite a serious concern. 'Anyone who must venture outdoors for a period of time is strongly urged to cover exposed skin,' AccuWeather stated. Some areas could also see more rounds of snow, ice and gusty winds, especially in the Great Lakes and Northeast regions which could receive lake-effect snow. This surge of winter weather will come on the heels of Winter Storm Blair, which has brought record-breaking snowfall, icing, high-winds and deadly travel conditions to the Ohio Valley and the mid-Atlantic this week. Archeologists have uncovered one of the most intriguing figures yet from ancient Egypt about 4,000 years after his lifetime. Teti Neb Fu, a physician and royal doctor, held prestigious titles such as chief palace physician, priest and 'magician' in ancient Egypt, experts say. His tomb and sarcophagus have been freshly uncovered in Egypt's historic Saqqara burial site, about 25 miles southwest of capital Cairo. The inside walls of the tomb feature stunning artworks, depicting Egyptian pottery, jewellery, hieroglyphics and more. Archeologists say the resting place dates back to the reign of King Pepi II meaning Teti Neb Fu lived and died about 4,000 years ago. King Pepi II became king at an early age during the sixth dynasty of ancient Egypt, between 2305 and 2118 BC. 'This incredible find adds to Saqqara's rich legacy as one of Egypt's most significant archaeological sites,' said Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in a Facebook post. 'The tomb is adorned with stunning carvings and vibrant artwork, including a beautifully painted false door and scenes of funerary offerings. A joint French-Swiss archaeological mission has uncovered the mastaba tomb of a royal physician named 'Teti Neb Fu' in the southern part of Saqqara Dating back to the Old Kingdom during the reign of King Pepi II, the tomb is adorned with stunning carvings and vibrant artwork Excavations in this area of Saqqara began in 2022 to unearth the graves of state employees for King Pepi who are buried near him and his wives, officials said. Teti Neb Fu's tomb is a 'mastaba' a rectangular superstructure with a flat roof typically constructed of limestone or mudbricks. As well as the tomb, the team discovered a stone sarcophagus within that has inscriptions bearing the physician's name and titles. According to his sarcophagus, Titi Nab Fu was given the noble titles of 'chief dentist' and 'director of medicinal plants'. Teti Neb Fu was also called a priest and the 'magician' of Serket (the goddess of healing venomous stings and bites in Egyptian mythology). This suggests Teti Neb Fu was an expert in treating injuries from poisonous scorpions or snakes, gaining a 'magical' reputation as a healer. Because of his burial location in Saqqara a revered village and burial site researchers knew Titi Nab Fu would have been important. But his titles inscribed on his sarcophagus reveal more about this man, who was not known until now. Inside walls of the tomb feature stunning artworks, depicting Egyptian pottery, jewellery and more Despite evidence of ancient looting, the tomb's walls remain intact, offering a rare glimpse into daily life and cultural practices during the Old Kingdom The ministry says: 'This incredible find adds to Saqqara's rich legacy as one of Egypt's most significant archaeological sites' Serket was the goddess of healing venomous stings and bites in Egyptian mythology. Serket is often depicted as a woman with a scorpion gracing her crown. In ancient Egypt, scorpions were a symbol of death due to their ability to quickly sting and kill victims with venom Who was Teti Neb Fu? Teti Neb Fu was a revered figure in ancient Egypt around 4,000 years ago, during the period known as the Old Kingdom. He lived during the reign of King Pepe II (between 2305 and 2118 BC). According to his sarcophagus, Teti Neb Fu held prestigious titles such as chief palace physician and priest. Teti Neb Fu was also called 'magician' of Serket (the goddess of healing venomous stings and bites in Egyptian mythology). Advertisement Covering an area of around 4.3 by 0.9 miles, Saqqara is famous as an Egyptian village that contains ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. Legendary chief architect Imhotep was responsible for the Step Pyramid of Djoser, situated at Saqqara and widely believed to be the oldest pyramid in the world. Despite evidence of ancient looting, the walls of Teti Neb Fu's tomb remain intact, offering a rare glimpse into daily life and cultural practices during the Old Kingdom of Egypt. Also known as the 'Age of the Pyramids' or 'Age of the Pyramid Builders', the Old Kingdom covers the Third to the Sixth Dynasty (about 2700 to 2200 BC). One of the three main classical periods of Egyptian culture and history, the Old Kingdom is famous for the massive pyramids that were built as tombs for the kings. At the time, medicine and magic were likely equally revered by the Ancient Egyptians, who practiced medicine 'with highly professional methods', according to a 2021 study. 'They had advanced knowledge of anatomy and surgery,' said the authors at the time. 'Also, they treated a lot of diseases including dental, gynecological, gastrointestinal and urinary disorders. Located 19 miles south of Cairo, the vast burial complex of Saqqara - which features the step pyramid of Djoser and flat-roofed tombs - served the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis Saqqara contains numerous pyramids, including the Step Pyramid of Djoser (pictured), widely believed to be the oldest pyramid in the world (file photo) 'They could diagnose diabetes and cancer.' Evidence in ancient texts shows that the ancient Egyptians were 'exceptionally skilled' at medicine for their times. They could identify, describe, and treat diseases and traumatic injuries and even put in dental fillings. A study published in 2024 revealed an Egyptian skull shows signs of attempts to treat cancer. A modern-day procedure called decompressive craniectomy where a hole is drilled into their skull to reduce swelling was performed by ancient Egyptians as a religious ritual. Advertisement Shipwrecked, naked and starving, he clambers onto land after 20 days at sea and sets eyes on a beautiful girl who gives him clothes, food, palatial shelter and, frankly, the will to go on. Are you mortal or divine?, a dazed Odysseus asks Princess Nausicaa, as she patches him up for the final leg of his 10-year journey home. No wonder Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has taken a leaf out of Homers book, naming the heart of its waterfront haven after the female ideal of hospitality. For the Nafsika suites, taken from the ancient Greek spelling of her name and at the hub of this elegant yet energetic hotel, teeter on the edge of heaven. Views over the Saronic Gulf from our expansive master bedroom and terrace are so captivating it takes a few moments to register the luxury within. Soft carpets, leather headboards, a spa-like bathroom, the plumpest of pillows monogrammed with the initials FH. Ah! This must be my bed, laughs my son Felix, 12, advancing on the super-king rather than the sofa bed awaiting him and his sister Evie, 17, in the adjoining room. Its our first family holiday without our eldest daughter Rose, 18, who has left home for university, insisting she doesnt mind our trip as long as we send photos. Fiona Hardcastle and her family check into one of the luxurious Nafsika suites at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, which has stunning views over the Saronic Gulf The hotel, explains Fiona, has taken a leaf out of Homers book, The Odyssey, naming the Nafsika suites after the female ideal of hospitality, Princess Nausicaa (with the property using the ancient Greek spelling of the name) Water treat: Fiona and her family enjoy the hotel's 'perfect' olive tree-lined pool (above) But it would take Olympian levels of magnanimity to withstand the pics of our newfound splendour and as starry-eyed emoji replies turn into teardrop ones, we realise its time to stop. Hubris rarely has a happy ending. Time for dinner at Mercato, one of the hotels six glitzy restaurants, a buzzy Italian that brims with Greek spirit. Like a well-oiled army, phalanxes of waiters weave around our table, each dedicated to their specific roles, which extend far beyond the delivery of food. Felix only has to sneeze before a leather-bound box of tissues appears. Evie, whos recently been gripped by a cough so violent she broke a rib the day before we travel, tries and fails to stifle a bark when a smiling waiter appears with a steaming cup of lemon and honey. We finish with a titanic tiramisu and I am fit for Hypnos, despite my husbands protestations that, with the two-hour time difference, its only 8pm. The promise of the following day at the Acropolis - shamefully, my first - is cause enough for an erstwhile Classicist to get an early night. Fiona writes: 'Views over the Saronic Gulf from our expansive master bedroom and terrace are so captivating it takes a few moments to register the luxury within.' Above: An Arion Panoramic Sea View Suite Fiona describes the rooms at Four Seasons Athens as 'teetering on the edge of heaven' Four Seasons Athens has a chic bar as well as six glitzy restaurants, with Fiona and her family dining at Italian Mercato and Taverna 37, which serves traditional Greek food After Greek salad omelettes for breakfast, were off a 40-minute taxi ride to the fifth century BC. Our first point of pilgrimage is the Acropolis Museum, a dazzling, light-filled construction nestled in the southeastern slope and home to the ancient A-list. Towering twin terracotta Nikes, softly illuminated on pedestals at the exhibition entrance, are the first spine-tingling signs of the treasures inside. Wingless now, but no less wondrous. The sloping glass ground floor, through which you can see excavations below, is home to ceremonial wedding vases, spindles, marble dedications and masks - touching symbols of life and death. Upstairs is even more spectacular, as you weave through elevated marble figures as if walking through a crowd. Suddenly, Im face to face with my favourites: Athena Nike tying her sandal, a beautiful bronze oil lamp in the shape of an ancient vessel called a trireme and five imposing Caryatids (the sixth is in the British Museum). Last stop the top and the friezes of the Parthenon gallery, gloriously bathed in sunlight and displayed against the majestic backdrop of their former home. Creamy originals mingle with bright white replicas and, heresy it may be, but I cant help wonder if the noble horse head of Selene might be happier here. The contours of the Peloponnese and the twinkling lights of luxury yachts bobbing in the sea at night held Fiona and her family spellbound The Four Seasons has an indoor pool looking out onto the sea - a great option for a rare bad-weather day Four Seasons Astir Palace is an 'elegant yet energetic hotel', remarks Fiona Fiona and her brood visit the Acropolis Museum, 'a dazzling, light-filled construction nestled in the southeastern slope and home to the ancient A-list' TRAVEL FACTS Fiona was hosted by Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, where rooms start from around 531/$662. For more visit www.fourseasons.com/athens/. Kedros Tours offers private tours of the Acropolis from 318/$397. For more visit kedrostravel.com. HOTEL VERDICT Pros: Flawless, timeless luxury Cons: An impossible act to follow Rating out of five: ***** Advertisement But thats always been the problem, says Dimitrios, our charismatic guide who meets us afterwards and shepherds us up to the Parthenon itself, entertaining and informing with myth, legend and a potted history of invasions from Romans, Franks, Ottomans, Venetians and Nazis. The western end is framed with scaffolding - reconstruction, he says, will take far longer than the original build ever did - but the awe is unmistakable. Everyone wants this piece of Greece. Back to the Four Seasons and the piece of Greece were most keen on claiming is a table at Taverna 37, in its bougainvillaea-clad, waterside setting. Were soon revived by a meze of local delicacies, tangy tzatziki, crumbly feta cheese and chilli followed by succulent slow-cooked lamb for the meat eaters and stifado cauliflower for the vegetarians. The prospect of a final lazy day by the perfect olive tree-lined pool awaits. The wind is up but the Ouzo soon warms and as we retire to our private terrace, mesmerised by the distant darkening contours of the Peloponnese and the twinkling lights of luxury yachts bobbing below, a tantalising idea takes form. Anyone fancy our own Odyssey - albeit one where we dont get washed up? A Tube station enthusiast inspired by viral trainspotter Francis Bourgeois has taken social media by storm, ranking all 272 of London's Tube stops and building a 'community' of transport fans. Tom Rees, a 29-year-old marketing operations manager from rural Shropshire now living in Islington, north London, grew up captivated by how the Tube allows Londoners to 'zip around the city'. After moving to the capital in 2017, he set out to visit every Tube station two years later, armed with a GoPro to document the 'good, the bad, and the ugly' and build a detailed mental map of London. In 2023, he turned his footage into TikTok, Instagram and YouTube videos under the handle @vaguely.mundane, ranking stations and amassing 50,000 followers across all platforms with his most popular video earning more than two million views on Instagram. His favourite Tube stops include Cockfosters, Uxbridge, Chesham, and Canary Wharf while less favoured spots like Stonebridge Park and Barking make the bottom tier. Tom Rees has taken social media by storm, ranking all 272 of London's Tube stops. He has amassed 50,000 followers across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube Uxbridge, a terminus for both the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines, is one of Tom's favourite Tube stops Tom told PA Real Life: 'It was probably around when Francis Bourgeois was blowing up, so I knew there was an audience for it, and I'd not seen anybody doing a review of these stations with a more subjective take. 'I couldn't believe it when my videos started getting views, but there's a real community of people who follow my videos now.' Despite 'not being interested in trains themselves', Tom finds the Tube and its people-moving power fascinating, especially given his more rural upbringing in Shropshire, where there was 'very little public transport'. He added: 'The idea of just being able to turn up on a platform and be whisked away to a distant corner of this massive city, it was always something that I found very exciting when I visited London growing up.' When Tom moved to London in 2017, he began to wonder what the areas at the end of the Tube lines such as Chesham, Epping, or Upminster were like. In 2019, he set himself the challenge of visiting every Tube station, spending around 20 minutes wandering the area before moving on to the next station. 'I was mostly interested in discovering all these places, the good, the bad, the ugly, and in a broader sense, it's definitely given me a much better mental map of London,' Tom said. 'Grand millennium architecture': Canary Wharf Tube station gets the thumbs up from Tom Tom says the 'northern leg of the Bakerloo line' often looks 'knackered', particularly disliking Stonebridge Park (above) THE BEST AND WORST TUBE STOPS The best include: Uxbridge Cockfosters Canary Wharf Chesham The worst include: Highbury & Islington Stonebridge Park Source: @vaguely.mundane Advertisement Tom captured footage of each station to create 'video proof' of his travels. He joked: 'I was clearly on some sort of ego trip where I thought that someone might ask me about it. 'I had all this footage on a hard drive, and I didn't do anything with it. I didn't have any plans for it. It was literally just a record.' But, when Tom visited the final station on his list, Oval on the Northern Line, he found the experience 'anticlimactic'. Throughout his career, Tom has worked on social media marketing and found the field captivating. He realised it was important to 'identify a niche' to grow an audience on platforms like TikTok, and was inspired to create his own outside of work. So, he decided to use the footage he already had, and 'repurpose it' into TikTok and Instagram videos, by adding snippets of him talking to the camera, giving his opinion on each station. Around April 2023, Tom created his @vaguely.mundane social media handle and began uploading his videos every other day until September 2024. Oval on the Northern line was the final station on Tom's Tube odyssey Above is Cockfosters on the Piccadilly line, which Tom describes as a 'fine' Tube station Highbury & Islington Station was a huge disappointment for Tom Tom used a tier system to rank the stations from best to worst, finding it impossible to pick just one favourite station, which he said would be like choosing a favourite song, as 'it changes all the time'. He said: 'It's all gut feeling but if a station hasn't been looked after very well, or it's been allowed to get rusty, or the signs are all sun-bleached and stuff like that, that's not going to help. 'On the flip side, if there's some sort of novel artwork or architecture going on, that's all very good stuff. 'Examples that I do really like, and are top-tier, would be something like Uxbridge, which has stained glass windows. I think I probably likened it to a cathedral. 'A different sort of station might be something like Chesham, the very furthest station on the whole Tube network in Buckinghamshire. 'You kind of go winding through fields and hills on the Tube train it's all very romantic and a contrast to that inner-city bustle. 'But then you've also got Canary Wharf, which is sci-fi and grand millennium architecture.' Chesham is the very furthest station on the whole Tube network in Buckinghamshire. Picture courtesy of Creative Commons picture licensing Tom, who grew up in rural Shropshire, has always been fascinated by the Tube Tom used a tier system to rank the stations from best to worst, finding it impossible to pick just one favourite station, which he said would be like choosing a favourite song. He said: 'I think London's network stands out because it's the first, but also because there's so much variety in the stations' He thinks the 'northern leg of the Bakerloo line' often looks 'knackered', particularly disliking Stonebridge Park - and he finds Barking 'quite a miserable place'. He added: 'Highbury and Islington, I gave that an E tier, so the bottom tier, mainly because if you compare it to old pictures of how it looked in Victorian times, for instance, it's so far removed from that it's quite sad now to see how far it's fallen.' In summer 2024, Tom also visited all 15 of Glasgow's subway stops in one afternoon. 'It's great that it exists. However, it's not the nicest in terms of the actual stations, and there's quite a lot of damp smells underground there,' Tom explained. 'I think London's network stands out because it's the first, but also because there's so much variety in the stations. 'I may well visit other cities and do their networks, but I don't imagine I'd be rushing to do a like-for-like equivalent of my Tube series. 'I think in most other cities, even like Paris, most of their stations are homogenous, they're all quite similar.' Since completing his series in September 2024, Tom has moved on to rating London's mainline stations, setting himself the challenge of 'finding an interesting place' around each one. 'It is definitely going to be tricky in some places, but I'll give it a go,' he said. His stops so far include The Trinity Buoy Wharf lighthouse a former experimental lighthouse that now hosts a 1,000-year-long musical composition that's been playing since 1999. He also discovered Billingsgate Roman House and Bath underneath an unassuming office block in the city. Looking to the future, Tom's goal is ultimately to 'have fun' and he does not intend to make content creation his full-time job. He added: 'I would have to be a lot bigger than I am to feel comfortable transitioning into doing it full time. 'The thing I'm proudest of is the community it's helped build there are people who know each other through liking my Tube reviews and my videos, and are now friends. 'That makes me feel happy.' Laurens trial begins, Kevin is shaken by medical news, Abis condition worsens and Daisys secret is revealed next week on Coronation Street. Read on for our round-up of all the drama coming Weatherfield's way. 1. Rob has found God Bobby heads to visit his dad again. Hes shocked when Rob reveals that he has found God in prison and that if he turns out to be a match for Carla, then he would like to be her kidney donor as a way to make amends for his sins. Bobby heads to visit his dad again but is shocked when Rob reveals that he has found God in prison 2. Terror at the prison Rob and Bobbys conversation is cut short when Matty Radcliffe, who is being held following Masons stabbing, pulls out a knife. As Matty holds the weapon to the neck of a prison officer, Bobby finds himself caught in a hostage situation. Rob and Bobbys conversation is cut short when Matty Radcliffe, who is being held following Masons stabbing, pulls out a knife 3. Dylan struggles with his guilt Dylan learns that Matty is now in custody after the police found CCTV footage of the Ratcliffe brothers disposing of the knife. Clearly traumatised, Dylan is later found by Betsy drinking vodka at the precinct. Dylan learns that Matty is now in custody after the police found CCTV footage of the Ratcliffe brothers disposing of the knife and Dylan doesn't take the news well 4. Abi haunted by her son Toyah tells Kevin that shes worried about Abi and thinks she needs professional help. Abi insists to Kevin that shes coping, but its clear that shes being tortured by Masons final moments and cant get the memories out of her head. Later, she has flashbacks of her son Seb and starts to hear his voice. Abi insists to Kevin that shes coping, but its clear that shes being tortured by Masons final moments and cant get the memories out of her head 5. Daisys baby secret revealed Bertie's birthday party sees Daisy caught up in an altercation with a jealous Bethany which ends in her having a nasty fall. Worried about the baby, Daisy gets a lift from Daniel to the hospital. However, when the nurse mentions her pregnancy in front of both Daniel and Kit, Daisy knows that her baby secret is out. How will the two men react? A surprise hospital trip for Daisy sees her baby secret exposed in front of both Daniel and Kit but how will the two men react 6. Dylan faces his fate Dylan attends a meeting at the police station over the stabbing where Kit tells him that he will be charged with possession of a bladed article, leaving the teen terrified about what his future could hold. Dylan attends a meeting at the police station over the stabbing where Kit tells him that he will be charged with possession of a bladed article, leaving the teen terrified 7. Carla visits Rob Carla insists to Bobby that Robs newfound religion is all an act and not to trust him. However, with Bobby convinced that Rob is a changed man, Carla decides to go and see for herself. As Rob explains his motives for wanting to be her donor, will Carla be won around? With Bobby convinced that Rob is a changed man, Carla decides to go and see for herself 8. Kevs cancer shock Kevin reveals to Debbie that he has found a lump but is unable to share his fears with a struggling Abi. Dr Gaddas arranges tests for him and Kev later confides in Tim. Later, a stressed-out Abi overreacts when she cant find Alfie and accuses Debbie of taking the boy. In the ensuing argument, Kev blurts out to Abi that he might have testicular cancer. Kevin reveals to Debbie that he has found a lump but is unable to share his fears with a struggling Abi 9. Lauren prepares for the worst Lauren panics at the prospect of her trial for the murder of Joel and tells Max that they should end their relationship as she is facing 20 years in prison, leaving him devastated. Later, Laurens trial begins and she listens on as the prosecution begins to address the court. Lauren panics at the prospect of her trial for the murder of Joel and tells Max that they should end their relationship as she is facing 20 years in prison 10. Courtroom showdown At the trial, Lauren is painted as a liar over Joels murder by the prosecution. As the defence and prosecution then go back and forth, Laurens friends Nina and Bobby watch on with mixed emotions. Back at the prison, Laurens barrister warns her that it could go either way. EastEnders surprised fans once again with another shock return on Monday ahead of the soap's 40th anniversary. Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) surprised fans when he returned to the square on Christmas Eve after 27-years away and now seems his wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) could be joining him. Despite claiming the pair had split Nigel is hiding a dark secret and received a voice message from his partner who begged him to return home. Viewers heard Julie's voice - played by actress Karen- as she pleaded: 'Nigel, it's Julie again. I don't know if you got my last message or' 'Listen, Nigel, I promise I'm not cross, whatever reason you walked out and disappeared, I just really need to know if you're alright mate. I miss you. I love you, Nigel'. Julie appeared in the soap in 1997 before leaving a year later to start a new life in Scotland with new husband Nigel and their respective children. EastEnders surprised fans once again with another shock return on Monday ahead of the soap's 40th anniversary Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley) surprised fans when he returned to the square on Christmas Eve after 27-years away and now seems his wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) could be joining him Despite claiming the pair had split Nigel is hiding a dark secret and received a voice message from his partner who begged him to return home Talented actress Karen went on to appear as Teresa Bryan in rival soap Corrie between 2007 and 2010, as well as roles in The Teacher opposite Sheridan Smith, Shameless and Vera. It comes after EastEnders fans all said the same thing as Ross Kemp posted his first selfie from the BBC set as his alter-ego Grant Mitchell. On Wednesday it was revealed that the actor, 60, would be reprising his role ahead of the BBC soap's 40th anniversary this year. Ross made his debut on the BBC soap back in 1990 and played Grant for nine years. He later returned for a year in 2005, and was last on our screens in 2016. The soap star gave a sneak peek behind the scenes of EastEnders in a recent Instagram post. He was all smiles as he posed for a picture with the soap's crew on set. Ross captioned the post: 'Team EastEnders." Julie appeared in the soap in 1997 (pictured) before leaving a year later to start a new life in Scotland with new husband Nigel and their respective children Talented actress Karen went on to appear as Teresa Bryan in rival soap Corrie (pictured) between 2007 and 2010, as well as roles in The Teacher opposite Sheridan Smith Many fans rushed to the comments section to share their excitement. One wrote: 'Hh so excited!! x.' Another confessed: 'This makes me so happy Grant [has] always been my favourite cast member.' 'Ross please come back and stay will you? Xx,' a third asked. A fourth chimed in: 'So excited you're returning!!!! team MITCHELL.' A fifth commented: 'Mitchell bros back together... now the fun begins yayyyy.' On Wednesday he posted a snap of her character Grant standing outside Walford East tube station to announce the news. Ross wrote: 'Im delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary. 'EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary, is an absolute honour. 'Grant has never been far from the action and lets just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang. 'Happy New Year.' It is not known what Grant's storyline will involve but BBC bosses have teased that it will 'play a significant part in the show's 40th anniversary'. EastEnders fans all said the same thing after Ross Kemp shared a selfie from the soap set ahead of his return The soap star is returning to the show this year Ross pictured with his on-screen mum late Barbara Windsor and Steve McFadden Executive Producer of EastEnders Chris Clenshaw said: 'We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ross Kemp back to EastEnders as he reprises the legendary role of Grant Mitchell. 'Whilst Im not currently revealing exactly what brings Grant back to Walford, I can say that his return will play a significant part in the shows 40th anniversary, and will make up many moments of truly unmissable TV.' It comes after it was revealed that a Queen Vic explosion is set to rock EastEnders' 40th anniversary special this year. An industry insider revealed that bosses are 'pulling out all the stops' for the anniversary special. Fans don't have long to wait as it'll be on our screens next month. An insider said: 'And they hinted that fans could expect some famous actors from the show's past to make a return, adding: 'Curious viewers will undoubtedly recognise a few familiar faces.' The soap first aired on February 19 1985. EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer. Only Connect viewers were left baffled when they noticed a bizarre change to a host's appearance halfway through Monday's show. Victoria Coren Mitchell returned to screens as she welcomed two teams Too Many Cookes vs the Tea Totallers. But as the presenter read out the clues on her cue card her appearance changed just minutes later and eagle-eyed fans noticed. In the first few moments Victoria was seen with bright red polish on her nails but when the camera flashed back to her it had been removed. Fans shared their thoughts on social media, asking if anyone else had noticed the change. They wrote to X: 'Hang on, how long does it take to film a show. At the beginning you have red nails and then a few moments later they have gone.' Only Connect viewers were left baffled when they noticed a bizarre change to a host's appearance halfway through Monday's show Others added: 'Watching #onlyconnect on delay and in Victoria's intro she has red nails holding the phone, yet later with the question cards, no nail varnish. 'The viewers of this show are far too observant and analytical to miss something like that continuity!!'; Did anyone else notice Victorias nails?' Victoria recently left viewers 'traumatised' after making a very crude joke about her BBC co-star Michael Portillo at the end of last week's episode. The popular quiz show, first broadcast in 2008, consists of a tournament-type format in which teams compete by finding connections between seemingly unrelated clues. On the most recent instalment, Victoria welcomed The Uisge Beathas and the Crushers who went head to head on the BBC show. She referenced an infamous joke about her having a crush on the former politician and journalist - but while some fans loved the jibe, others think she went 'too far'. Ending the show, Victoria said: Coming up next on BBC Two is another episode in that wonderful series sponsored by the RSPB, where celebrities look after birds before handing them on to other celebrities to raise awareness of struggling avian numbers. 'I have so enjoyed watching big names on BBC Two passing their feathered dependents on to other presenters, so I decided to join in myself. Tonight, I will be eagerly taking several swallows from Michael Portillo. Goodnight.' In the first few moments Victoria Coren Mitchell was seen with bright red polish on her nails but when the camera flashed back to her it had been removed Fans shared their thoughts on social media, asking if anyone else had noticed the change Viewers had mixed opinions as they rushed to social media after hearing the shocking innuendo, writing: '@VictoriaCoren full on choked at the closing comment on this evenings episode of #onlyconnect. Did not expect that.' '#onlyconnect a pretty near the knuckle innuendo by Victoria Coren at the end. I have no problem with that. Innuendo was part of being British. But what is the difference between what VC said & what Greg Wallace said?' 'Eww @VictoriaCoren I can't unhear that Portillo gag at the end of #Onlyconnect.' 'Somewhat traumatised by @VictoriaCoren parting shot on #OnlyConnect tonight!! 'Phenomenal Portillo gag in true ISIHAC style at the end of last night's #OnlyConnect. Kudos, @VictoriaCoren for the deadpan delivery.' Netflix has added all seasons of an 'enchanting' comedy series with impressive ratings. The streaming giant has injected some laughter into January by bringing back a beloved 2015 comedy series. Younger became an instant hit when it premiered almost a decade ago. The show, created by Darren Star and starring Hilary Duff, Debi Mazar, Nico Tortorella and Miriam Shor, ran for seven seasons. It follows 40-year-old singleton Liza Miller (Sutton), who has a run-in with tattoo artist Josh (Nico), who is under the impression they are both in their 20s. Not wanting to let him down, she decides to reinvent herself and goes back to her career in publishing, posing as a 20-something. Netflix has added all seasons of 'enchanting' comedy Younger to Netflix almost a decade after it first aired The show, created by Darren Star and starring Hilary Duff, follows 40-year-old singleton Liza Miller as she pretends to be a 20-something after falling in love with a young tattoo artist Hilarity ensues as Liza struggles to fit in and keep her real identity hidden. Now all seven series of the hit show are available to stream on Netflix and fans will no doubt be pleased, as the show has a 97% rating on on Rotten Tomatoes with seasons two to six boasting a completely perfect score. Kate Kulzick from the Wrap praised the show, writing: 'This ridiculous premise shouldn't even work, but thanks to strong writing from Sex And The City creator Darren Star and a winning lead performance by Sutton Foster, Younger is utterly charming.' Nerdist's Lindsey Romain wrote: 'It's a concept that shouldn't work at all, but somehow, Foster and the rest of the cast including Hilary Duff and Debi Mazar elevate Younger into something both silly and special' Michael Cuby of them. agreed: 'Taken at face value, the premise of Younger a 40-year-old woman lies about her age in order to get an assistant job at a publishing company should not work. 'But somehow, it does (fantastically so).' As Alison Herman from the Ringer added: 'For now, Younger remains TV Land's best and biggest hit, a fact that's both improbable and oddly poetic.' Now all seven series of the hit show are available to stream on Netflix and fans fans will no doubt be pleased as the show has a 97 per cent rating on on Rotten Tomatoes with season two to six having a completely perfect score The show has previously been praised that despite its ridiculous premise, it's comedic gold This isn't the only new addition to Netflix's library, with fans going wild after the streamer added hugely popular film Interstellar to the platform on January 1. Christopher Nolan's space epic, which stars Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway as astronauts on a mission to save Earth, was initially released to cinemas in 2014. Set in a dystopian future where Earth is suffering from catastrophic blight and famine, Interstellar follows a group of astronauts who travel through a wormhole near Saturn in search of a new home for mankind. As they carry out their mission to find a new home for humanity, their loved ones back on a dystopian Earth are ravaged by blight and crop failure and age at a rapid pace. To make matters worse, the planet they venture to experiences 'time dilation' due to its close proximity to a supermassive blackhole, meaning 23 years have passed by the time they get back home. Taking to X, social media users and Netflix subscribers rejoiced as they celebrated the movie's availability to stream. Interstellar is now available to stream on Netflix One said: 'Oh wow, Interstellar on Netflix just made my New Year's Day! Time to dive back into that epic space adventure!' Another wrote: 'Finally getting to rewatch the docking scene on my TV instead of through YouTube clips for the hundredth time - this is how 2025 should start. 'This is the good news I needed today', a third penned. 'My favorite film.' Echoing a similar sentiment, a fourth posted: 'Interstellar is on Netflix. Didn't think I'd cry this early in the year.' 'That's great news!' added a fifth. 'Interstellar is a cinematic masterpiece, and it's awesome that more people will have access to it now.' An Inbetweeners star looked unrecognisable in SAS Rogue Heroes as he transformed into a ripped soldier. The new BBC series, from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, returned to BBC One on New Year's Day. Adapted from Ben Macintyre's best-selling book, the series offers a dramatised account of how the SAS was formed during the Second World War, having been granted access to secret SAS archives. Theo Barklem-Biggs, 35, who starred as Richard in the 2011 Inbetweeners film, looks worlds away from the hapless character he played all those years ago. In the comedy he appeared as a lone traveller who constantly bumps into Will, Simon, Neil and Jay to ruin their holiday in Malia, Greece. In Rogue Heroes he takes on the role of Reg Seekings, a member of he Special Air Services. An Inbetweeners star looked unrecognisable in SAS Rogue Heroes as he transformed into a ripped soldier The new BBC series, from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, returned to BBC One on New Year's Day The second season saw the return of cast members Jack O'Connell, 34, and Sofia Boutella, 42. It follows rebellious Paddy Mayne (Jack) as he takes control of the SAS and attempts to prove that the regiment remains essential to the war after former leader David Stirling (Connor Swindells) is captured. Alongside Paddy and David, a whole host of familiar faces returned to the drama including Dominic West, 55, as Lieutenant Colonel Dudley Wrangel Clarke. In the second episode, David, a prisoner of war, is visited by an Italian nun who turns out to be the British spy Eve Mansour. The pair formed a romance in the first season before David was abducted and held captive. However, fans were left unimpressed by the storyline and took to social media to complain. On X, one wrote: 'Oh look. An undercover nun. Does SAS mean Story Absolutely Stupid? #SASRogueHeroes.' Others added: 'The first series was great. Its just got silly now'; 'Artistic license is one thing but this is farfetched.' Theo Barklem-Biggs, 35, who starred as Richard in the 2011 Inbetweeners film, looks worlds away from the hapless character he played all those years ago (pictured as Richard) Rogue Heroes follows Paddy Mayne as he takes control of the SAS and attempts to prove that the regiment remains essential to the war (Jack O'Connell pictured as Paddy) Others complained about Paddy's Irish accent, with one writing: 'Its a shame that @jackoconnell N Irish accent is so terrible in #SASRogueHeroes as its a great show.' The new series also features new characters, including Bohemian Rhapsody actor Gwilym Lee, 41, starring as diplomat Bill Stirling, who comes on board to save the regiment while his younger brother David is a prisoner of war. Creator Steve Knight said: 'The fact is that the true story of the SAS is a piece of drama better than anyone in fiction could invent.' 'The characters are beyond belief but, in the majority of cases in the series, they're real.' SAS Rogue Heroes airs on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer. Andi Peters struggled to contain his emotions when he appeared on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday. The presenter, 54, had to fight back tears after hearing an emotional story from a grieving mother whose son had saved 18 lives. The breakfast show saw Ed Balls and Susanna Reid interview Naomi Rees-Issitt, who has been fighting to make defibrillators available in police cars after the death of her son Jamie. Jamie passed away after he suffered a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day in 2022 when he was just 18 years old. He was left waiting 17 minutes for an ambulance and his friends couldn't get access to a defibrillator which was located one minute away but locked inside a school. The police who arrived on scene first also did not have a defibrillator inside their car which could have saved Jamie's life. Andi Peters, 54, struggled to contain his emotions when he appeared on Good Morning Britain on Tuesday The presenter had to fight back tears after hearing an emotional story from grieving mother Naomi Rees-Issitt whose son Jamie had saved 18 lives after passing away two years ago Jamie passed away after he suffered a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day in 2022 when he was just 18-years-old And after hearing the tragic account, Andi couldn't keep his composure. Presenting the competition segment from Edinburgh the star was clearly teary-eyed and admitted he was moved by the Naomi's tale. He said: 'Slightly moved, I can't lie', before informing viewers they could be in the running to win more than 100,000 if they entered the show's competition. And Andi wasn't the only one who was moved by the heartbreaking story. Susanna Reid also broke down in tears and said: 'Naomi, it's been such a tragic loss losing your child in such an unspeakable way. You have found a purpose. Jamie had signed up to the organ register, hadn't he?'. Naomi replied: 'The reason that we do what we do is because Jamie had signed the organ register three times in his short life. 'When he was 16, 17 and again just after his 18th birthday. And I was stood outside of Coventry hospital the morning after we lost Jamie and watched his lungs take off in a helicopter to go to Bristol. 'Jamie actually saved five lives including the life of a baby girl on the night that we lost him. He was meant to save lives. And after hearing the tragic account, Andi couldn't keep his composure and admitted he was moved by the story And Andi wasn't the only one who was moved by the heartbreaking story as Susanna Reid also broke down in tears I knew from that second that that wasnt going to be the end of Jamies life, he was meant to save lives and since we launched Jamies Foundation, hes saved 13 more lives with his defibrillators, and I know that he will go on and save hundreds of lives. 'For us, he was never going to be just that lad that died on New Years, he was always going to be so much more. 'In life he was amazing, and even now, hes saving lives everyday and taking the panic out of situations for people through his Foundation.' Breaking down in tears after Naomi revealed how many lives Jamie had saved, Susanna brought her in for a hug and said: 'Well done for what youve done. I think you're amazing.' Naomi launched the OurJay Foundation and has now installed 129 accessible defibrillators and have a further 15 waiting to be installed across Warwickshire. Breaking down in tears after Naomi revealed how many lives Jamie had saved, Susanna brought her in for a hug and said: 'Well done for what youve done. I think you're amazing' After suffering a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day Jamie's heart was restarted but he passed away five days later at University Hospital in Coventry. Naomi explained: 'Had that defibrillator had been there at 10, 11, 12 minutes, the oxygen starvation wouldn't have been as severe and there's every chance he could have been here today if we had just had that access to it.' In a statement at the time, West Midlands Ambulance Service said: 'We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Jamie Rees and apologise for the delay in responding on New Years Day. 'New Year's Day was the busiest the trust has ever experienced, nearly a quarter busier than the previous busiest New Years Day.' Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 from 6am and is available to stream on ITVX. Peter Yarrow who was part of the legendary 1960s folk trio Peter, Paul, And Mary who are best known for iconic song Puff The Magic Dragon is dead at 86. The controversial musician passed away after battling bladder cancer for four years his publicist confirmed. He was the lead vocalist of the hit track Puff The Magic Dragon - which was released in 1960 - as he denied that the song was about drugs for years which is what many had believed. Yarrow staunchly denied that it was about drug taking and has maintained that the actual meaning of the song is about the hardships of growing up. The musician has previously said that the song 'never had any meaning other than the obvious one' and is about the 'loss of innocence in children.' Yarrow had also been embroiled in controversy as he was sentenced to three months in jail over a 1969 incident in which the 14-year-old and her 17-year-old sister went to his hotel seeking an autograph and he answered the door naked. Peter Yarrow who was part of the legendary 1960s folk trio Peter, Paul, And Mary who are best known for iconic song Puff The Magic Dragon is dead at 86; the trio is pictured in 1968 Peter Yarrow is seen performing in New York in July 2014 Barbara Winter, who was 14-years-old at the time, said that Yarrow had made her masturbate him until he ejaculated and he ultimately served three months of a one to three year prison sentence. He had apologized for the incident as he explained: 'It was an era of real indiscretion and mistakes by categorically male performers. I was one of them. I got nailed. I was wrong. I'm sorry for it.' Former president Jimmy Carter pardoned Yarrow in 1981 the day before his presidency ended. Back in 2019, Yarrow was set to perform at the Colorscape Chenango Arts festival in New York state which was promptly cancelled due to resurfaced awareness of the conviction. The other two members of Peter, Paul, And Mary were Paul Stookey who played guitar and provided baritone vocals and Mary Travers who provided the contralto vocals. Stookey is now the last surviving member of the group as Mary Travers died at the age of 72 in 2009 amid a leukemia battle. The group's heyday was in the early and mid 1960s as their self-titled debut album topped the charts for weeks as they were even credited for popularizing the folk music revival. During that time they had an impressive six Top 10 singles in the US including a No. 1 which was a cover of John Denver's Leavin' On A Jet Plane. The other two members of Peter, Paul, And Mary were Paul Stookey (left) who played guitar and provided baritone vocals and Mary Travers (center) who provided the contralto vocals; they are pictured in 1968 Yarrow (pictured in 2015) had also been embroiled in controversy as he was sentenced to three months in jail over a 1969 incident in which the 14-year-old and her 17-year-old sister went to his hotel seeking an autograph and he answered the door naked Barbara Winter, who was 14-years-old at the time, said that Yarrow had made her masturbate him until he ejaculated and he ultimately served three months of a one to three year prison sentence; Yarrow is pictured in 1968 The group's heyday was in the early and mid 1960s as their self-titled debut album topped the charts for weeks as they were even credited for popularizing the folk music revival; they are seen in New York back in 1962 Their popularity also lead them to five Top 10 albums including the aforementioned 1962 debut album, (Moving) (1963), In The Wind (1963), A Song Will Rise (1965), and See What Tomorrow Brings (1965). The trio eventually called it quits in 1970. In 1978, the group reunited and released a further five albums over the next few decades before launching their last record in 2003. Peter, Paul, And Mary were also very politically involved as they joined the Martin Luther King Jr.'s March on Washington and even sung a cover of Bob Dylan's Blowin' In The Wind on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. The trio eventually called it quits in 1970. In 1978, the group reunited and released a further five albums over the next few decades before launching their last record in 2003; they are seen in August 2003 Yarrow was a political activist that also supported causes including the opposition to the Vietnam War and school anti-bullying programs. He was born in Manhattan, New York City and was the son of Ukranian Jewish immigrants Vera Wisebrode and Bernard Yarrow. Yarrow went on to graduate from Cornell University with a degree in psychology in 1959. He began singing in public during his last year in university as he participated in Harold Thompson's American Folk Literature course which was known on campus as 'Romp-n-Stomp.' Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Bronwyn Newports husband Todd finalized his divorce from his ex wife two years before meeting the fashion influencer. During the nearly 28-year marriage, Todd Bradley, 66, gifted his ex Margaret Bradley, 66, lavish jewelry similar to what Bravo fans have witnessed the tech exec gift his current wife on RHOSLC. The former couple also owned multiple residences an English-style manor in Palo Alto, California, thats now on the market for $14.9 million, and a stunning five-bedroom mansion in San Diego. In court documents exclusively obtained by Dailymail.com, details of Todds divorce to his ex can be revealed, including the multi-million dollar settlement. Margaret filed for divorce after 27 years and 11 months of marriage in August 2009, citing irreconcilable differences as grounds for divorce. Margaret and Todd got married when they were 22 years old and went on to welcome two children together. Todd Bradley's divorce to his ex wife included a $14 million settlement Todd was married to his first wife, Margaret Bradley, for nearly 28 years Bronwyn and Todd met in 2014 in San Francisco, two years after his divorce was finalized A San Diego judge signed off on the divorce in September 2012 after the parties' negotiations were carried out at arms length before the judge. They got assistance from each of their attorneys, forensic accountants and financial planners, per the docs. A Marital Settlement Agreement, as part of the dissolution of marriage, details how Margaret waived her right to any spousal support from Todd. (There was no child support involved since their two children were not minors at the time of filing.) Instead, the parties agreed on a $4 million settlement that the former Hewlett-Packard exec paid to his ex. In consideration of the mutual waivers of support, Todd shall pay Margaret the sum of four million dollars ($4,000,000) as set forth in the MSA (Marital Settlement Agreement). Said sum shall not be taxable to Margaret nor deductible to Todd, the court docs obtained by DailyMail.com state. As far as an equalization payment, Todd and Margaret decided there would be no equalization payment since the parties have divided all community property assets and liabilities and accounts equally. In addition, each party agreed to pay his or her own attorneys fees, costs and other expenses although Margaret had requested Todd pay her fees when she filed the petition for divorce. In Todds Income and Expense Declaration, filed in December 2010, Bronwyns husband estimated that Margarets gross monthly income at the time was $30,000. Todd has two adult sons with his ex while Bronwyn has one daughter, Gwen, from a previous relationship Todd and Bronwyn have six dogs and live in Salt Lake City, Utah Bronwyn has opened up about Todd cheating on her in the past during a recent episode of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City He noted that the estimate was based on the approximately $10,000,000 in cash Margaret received as a result of a partial division of marital assets to date. With the additional $4 million, his ex wife received a combined settlement of $14 million. Todd, for his part, noted that he was earning a gross monthly income of $60,219, as executive vice president of Hewlett-Packard. He also noted his average monthly commissions or bonuses was approximately $797,518. His gross income in 2009 amounted to over $10 million. His current reported net worth is estimated to be $24.6 million. Margaret separately filed her Declaration of Disclosure, which included separate and community property and jewelry gifted to [Margaret] during marriage. As Bravo fans are aware, Bronwyn, 39, received her own $4 million gift during their anniversary celebration in Palm Springs a $4 million opera necklace thats made up of 170 carats. Todd and Bronwyn have not discussed details of the businessmans previous marriage on RHOSLC, except for the fact that he has two adult children (one son is six months older than the reality star). Bronwyn has one child from her ex, who tragically passed away an 18-year-old daughter named Gwen. Bronwyn and Todd recently celebrated their eight year wedding anniversary Bronwyn joined the cast of RHOSLC when season 5 premiered in September New episodes of RHOSLC air every Wednesday on Bravo Bronwyn and Todd met in 2014 in San Francisco while she was working in finance. They got married two years later and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they eventually settled down into a 14,966 square foot mansion. Their relationship has been rocky since its been revealed that Todd cheated on her. Bronwyn opened up to the cast during the last RHOSLC episode, A couple of years ago, we were on a trip and he was texting someone on his iPad and [my daughter] Gwen went to say something to him and Gwen saw it over his shoulder. So, Gwen came to me, and I confronted Todd. After the cast pried for more info, Bronwyn revealed, It's a fatal flaw of his. What's good for him in business is that he's never satisfied. He's always pushing for the next deal, the best deal, whatever. It's hard to turn that off when you come home. The fashionista later clarified her comments when she appeared on an episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, saying the cheating was a misunderstanding. Todd never did anything physical with anybody. It wasnt this big affair, she explained. It was really that I was uncomfortable with how much he was talking to somebody who was very flirty with him. Butwhat I was trying to tell the ladies that night is that Im insecure. I take things really personally. Its hard for me and I used that as an example. I wish I hadnt. Todd and Bronwyns marital issues will continue to unfold when the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City returns on Wednesday, January 8 at 8pm ET. Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas' terrifying six-year stalker ordeal has been revealed after a man was charged last week. The Sun reports that Kyle Shaw, 37, appeared at South Sefton Magistrates' Court accused of sending messages to the dance pro, 64, between 2017 and 2023. His conduct was said to have left Shirley 'seriously alarmed and distressed' and unable to continue her usual day-to-day activities. According to the publication the accused bailed to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on January 31 and Judge Wendy Lloyd placed conditions stating that he 'not to contact or approach Shirley Ballas or by any means including social media'. This comes just months after Shirley was forced to phone the police when an alleged stalker 'lunged at her and took photos of her house and car'. It is unknown wether that incident is linked to Shaw. MailOnline have contacted Shirley's reps for comment. Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas ' terrifying six-year stalker ordeal has been revealed after a man was charged last week Kyle Shaw, 37, appeared at South Sefton Magistrates' Court accused of sending messages to the dance pro, 64, between 2017 and 2023 Following the terrifying ordeal in July Shirley claimed that the man's phone and computer have now been confiscated by police as they investigate the claims. Speaking on Mirror's Invite Only podcast, she said: 'There was one particular person who was kind of stalking me. That is under investigation at the moment, as we speak. 'I know his computer and phone, everything has been confiscated. He was taking pictures of my house, he had my house, he had my car. So, yes, there have been times when I have been fearful. I meet people and they really, the majority of people are fantastic, but then once or twice you'll, they lunge.... this one particular person will lunge at me, and he really feels he knows me. He feels he knows me. But he only knows me from the TV. Or from following me on social media. And that's quite alarming. 'So, you know, I always have George, the guy who's driven me for the last five years, get out of the car first, always scanning. 'I wouldn't say it's the healthiest thing. You know, I like to be kind of like a free bird, but we're coming into times now where you have to be more vigilant of yourself.' Shirley's scary ordeal comes just as Gavin Plumb was convicted over his attempts to kidnap former This Morning host, Holly Willoughby. Shirley told how she has changed how she is much more aware of her safety ever since Holly's ordeal was made public. His conduct was said to have left Shirley 'seriously alarmed and distressed' and unable to continue her usual day-to-day activities This comes just months after Shirley was forced to phone the police when an alleged stalker 'lunged at her and took photos of her house and car'. It is unknown wether that incident is linked to Shaw She said: 'I am a very vigilant person. When I go out, I'm careful not to go alone. If it's at night, I'm always a little bit nervous. 'There's what you read on social media, (and then) particularly with Holly - her experiences. So, yeah, I don't take anything lightly. There are many amazing people, but there are a few strange people out there. It's quite hard, and makes you always a little bit more precautious. 'You're upping your level of alarms. And (now) I always tell my mum: 'I'm here, I've arrived'. I wouldn't bother normally but it's become a thing that we do. I always like to say: 'I'm safe, I'm in the right place, I'm where I should be.' Thankfully the BBC's duty of care towards me has been one thousand percent, they have been fantastic. 'So, in some of these instances, when it was difficult - this stalker came from the north of England - I had somebody that was walking me from the hotel to here, they checked in on me to make sure that I was ok. I just felt very well protected.' Meanwhile Shilrey revealed the decision that 'changed her life forever' as she opened up on putting her personal life on hold for her career during a new interview. The dancer had a successful Latin dance career before joining the Strictly Come Dancing panel in 2017 as she replaced head judge Len Goodman. Away from the ballroom and Latin dance floor, the mother of one has also had a busy romantic life with two ex-husbands and a former fiance. During an appearance on Jennie Becker's Sliding Doors podcast, Shirley revealed the moment her career took off, but explained she had to put marriage and kids on hold. Shirley's scary ordeal comes just as Gavin Plumb was convicted over his attempts to kidnap former This Morning host, Holly Willoughby Shirley told how she has changed how she is much more aware of her safety ever since Holly's ordeal was made public Gavin Plumb pictured She explained: 'I was engaged to a man called Nigel Tiffany and we had recently moved to Croydon. I was a secretary, highly underqualified but managed to talk my way into the job. 'Everything was going fine, we were very very happy and then I was at work one day when my teacher Nina called me and she said, "do you really want to get married and have a family or do you want a real chance at stardom?" 'Now Nigel was a ballroom dancer and he was doing very well in that, but my heart was always with the Latin and she wanted me to try with a man called Sammy Stopford. 'I was miles away from where he was, but she said I have ten minutes to think about it and then try out would be at the studio tomorrow. Don't tell Nigel when you go home and we'll go from there.' Shirley went against what her dance teacher had asked, adding: 'I went home and I told him and he got most upset. I ended up leaving with my clothes in plastic bags and ended up meeting my long-term girlfriend Denise because I stayed with her grandmother. 'I then moved to Manchester with Sammy and we got married maybe 18 months later. We had the most amazing career in a short space of time so had I not made that decision, I'm sure I would be very happy with Nigel and had a lovely life, but I never would have fulfilled the dreams in Latin. 'It changed my life forever, put me on a track to really having an opportunity in the world of Latin dancing.' Angelina Jolie has hinted that her 'light was dimmed' in the past. This comes just after the 49-year-old star settled her divorce with Brad Pitt after eight years of fighting. Jolie told Times Radio that playing Maria Callas forced her to look inside. 'I think you're an artist, and you go through different things in life, and you wonder if certain parts of you have shut down, or who you are, what you have inside of you, and if your lights dimmed, and if you have less to contribute, or if you don't know your yourself, and so to push and rediscover things and try for things that I hadn't ever tried,' said the Oscar-winning star. 'And what a gift as an artist, to be pushed again at this time in my life, to do something that terrified me and I wasn't sure I could do is the greatest gift.' Angelina Jolie has hinted that her 'light was dimmed' in the past as she talked to Times Radio; seen on Sunday at the Golden Globe Awards This comes just after the 49-year-old star settled her divorce with Brad Pitt after eight years of fightin Before that she told Access Hollywood on the red carpet at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on Sunday that starring in Maria was a major challenge. 'Failing Maria Callas and the people who loved her really scared me,' she said. 'This was a big fear, but it's fun. I mean, what are we alive for if not to confront our fears and get our hearts pumping and you know try things we're 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 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'. Jolie said playing Maria Callas forced her to look inside. 'I think you're an artist, and you go through different things in life, and you wonder if certain parts of you have shut down, or who you are, what you have inside of you, and if your lights dimmed,' she shared; seen January 3 in Palm Springs Jolie, Zahara Marley Jolie and Jacqueline Bisset attend the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Awards at Palm Springs Convention Center on January 3 The Girl, Interrupted star is 'exhausted' and 'relieved' that 'this one part' of the family's '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. Pablo Larrain, Jolie on the set of the film Maria 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. Daniel Radcliffe has earned himself a staggering fortune thanks to his impressive acting career, savvy investments and starring role in one of the biggest film franchises of all time. The actor, 35, shot to fame playing the leading role in the Harry Potter movies, but has continued to find great success 14 years after last playing the boy wizard. After keeping viewers spellbound from the age of 11, he has reportedly amassed almost than 100million in the business he uses to channel his on-screen earnings, Gilmore Jacobs. According to the latest accounts filed in March 2024, Daniel's wealth totals 96.3million, made up of investments and cash in his company, which generates income from several lucrative investments and is still run by his parents. Marcia and Alan Radcliffe have been looking after the actor's firm ever since he received his first cheque of 800,000 for the first Harry Potter film in 2001. Speaking to The Sun about how the star has earned such a mammoth sun, an insider explained: 'Even devoted fans of Daniel, of which there are many, will be shocked by the fortunes hes racked up since he left the famous franchise behind and started a new chapter. Daniel Radcliffe has earned himself a staggering fortune thanks to his impressive acting career, savvy investments and starring role in one of the biggest film franchises of all time (picture in March) The actor, 35, shot to fame playing the leading role in the Harry Potter movies, but has continued to find great success 14 years after last playing the boy wizard (pictured in 2004's Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) After keeping viewers spellbound from the age of 11, he has reportedly amassed almost than 100million in the business he uses to channel his on-screen earnings, Gilmore Jacobs (pictured in 2022) 'But it seems his money isnt just based on how much hes been paid for his acting work, its also down to shrewd investments hes made along the way which means he has a steady income, whatever happens.' For the eight Harry Potter films, Daniel is said to have earned a total of 75m, but has increased that sum by almost 30 per cent since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in 2011. It comes after last year it was revealed that he had doubled his cash reserves to more than 16 million, with company filings revealing he as property worth more than 3.3 million. He has allegedly been making around half a million pounds a month, on average and owns homes both in West London and in New York. After his famous breakout role, Daniel went on to star in films like The Woman in Black, Kill Your Darlings and Victor Frankenstein. He also delved into the indie genre, making waves in 2016 for his quirky role in Swiss Army Man and starring opposite Toni Collette, in critically acclaimed independent film Imperium. Daniel recently appeared with Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum in 2022's The Lost City, and will reprise his role from Now You See Me 2 in the upcoming third film in the trilogy this year. He has also began receiving greater critical acclaim, bagging his first Emmy nomination for playing the titular role in 2022 biopic Weird: The Al Yankovic Story. For the eight Harry Potter films, Daniel is said to have earned a total of 75m, but has increased that sum by almost 30 per cent since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in 2011 (pictured) After his famous breakout role, Daniel went on to star in films like The Woman in Black (pictured) Kill Your Darlings and Victor Frankenstein Daniel recently appeared with Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum in 2022's The Lost City (pictured), and will reprise his role from Now You See Me 2 in the upcoming third film in the trilogy this year He has also began receiving greater critical acclaim, bagging his first Emmy nomination for playing the titular role in 2022 biopic Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (pictured) While last year, Daniel won his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his performance as Charley Kringas in 1981 Broadway revival of Merrily We Roll Along. He has also recently become a father, after his long-term partner Erin Darke welcomed a little boy in April 2023. Daniel and Erin, 40, first met on the set of 2013 American biographical drama film Kill Your Darlings playing onscreen lovers, with Daniel later admitting that he was immediately attracted to Erin. The notoriously private couple have chosen not to reveal their son's name, but Daniel made rare comments towards his partner and child in June when he accepted his Tony Award. Fighting back tears as he took to the stage, he gushed: 'My love, Erin. You and our son are the best thing that's ever happened to me. I love you so much. Thank you so much'. In 2022, Daniel spoke out about the 'terrifying' and 'intimidating' nature of fatherhood. When asked by E! News how he was finding being a new parent, he confessed: 'There's a short answer and a long answer to that. And the short answer is it's awesome and he's the best thing that's ever happened. 'The long version? It's frankly terrifying to have a human being in the world that I care this much about.' He added: 'Everything he does is going to affect how I feel about my life for the rest of my life. So, you know, that's intimidating.' While last year, Daniel won his first Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his performance as Charley Kringas in 1981 Broadway revival of Merrily We Roll Along (pictured with Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez in play in 2023) He has also recently become a father, after his long-term partner Erin Darke welcomed a little boy in April 2023 (pictured in 2014) Bindi Irwin has shared an exciting announcement about the future of the family's Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. The celebrity conservationist, 26, revealed that the luxury new cabins at the Zoo's Crocodile Hunter Lodge were now completed and ready to take bookings. She shared a gallery of photos which showcased the cabins, which feature gorgeous spacious rooms, breathtaking nature views and all the luxuries of a five-star hotel. Bindi captioned the gallery with some exciting words: 'Our new cabins. @crocodilehunterlodge + my husband = in love. Come stay in our utterly breathtaking two storey cabins.' 'Our best and newest luxury cabins!' Bindi's mother Terri Irwin added. However, fans may need to save up for quite some time to stay there as bookings on their website currently have a three-night minimum stay at $6,397 - or just over $2,100 a night. Bindi Irwin has shared an exciting announcement about the future of the family's Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland . (Pictured L - R: Robert, Bindi and Terri Irwin) Bindi's followers quickly took to social media to express their frustration at not being able to afford a booking. 'If I ever become loaded, you will find me here,' one person wrote. 'I want to so bad but it is a little too expensive,' a second user added. 'Why can't I be rich?' a third person mused. Last year, Bindi's brother Robert gave fans a tour of Crocodile Hunter Lodge and revealed how the family incorporated his father's legacy throughout the hotel. Opening in 2022, Crocodile Hunter Lodge was a longtime dream of the late 'crocodile hunter' Steve Irwin, who wanted to open luxury accommodation at the Zoo. Taking to social media, Robert showed viewers how guests are welcomed by three large bottle trees which were planted by Steve. 'These are dad's trees. These bottle trees were originally planted by him in the Zoo and we moved them to welcome our guests in as the perfect welcome statement,' he explained. The celebrity conservationist, 26, revealed that the luxury new cabins at the Zoo's Crocodile Hunter Lodge were now completed and ready to take bookings. (Pictured with her husband Chandler Powell) She shared a gallery of photos which showcased the luxury cabins, which feature gorgeous spacious rooms, breathtaking nature views and all the luxuries of a five-star hotel The zookeeper went on to reveal the hotel's welcome doors were made out of timber from a crocodile grandstand his father built. The grandstand timber was also used to frame heartwarming photographs of the Irwin family for visitors to admire. Robert moved the tour into the hotel's fine dining restaurant Warrior, named in tribute to Steve and his granddaughter Grace Warrior. He said the restaurant is made of a rammed earth construction in tribute to his father's desire for a sustainable future. In December 2022, the Irwin family spoke about the importance of continuing Steve's legacy by building the lodge. 'This is an exciting time for us as a family to be able to continue on what dad's vision was for Australia Zoo,' Bindi said at the time. Steve's widow Terri added her beloved husband always had a dream that visitors could not only visit Australia Zoo, but stay overnight for an immersive experience. Reality TV star Denton Ansley has welcomed his first child. Denton appeared on the 2019 season of the short-lived Channel Seven reality show with 'controversial' bride Dannii Erskine. The reality star took to Instagram last week to share the news that he and wife Skye Ansley had become parents. Sharing a series of photos of their precious newborn, the proud couple said they 'couldn't be happier' with their new arrival. 'Introducing the new main man in our lives Hunter Harley Ansley born on the 01/01/2025 at 7:10pm weighing in at 3.260 kilos. @skye.ansley and I couldnt be happier about the arrival of our little man,' Denton captioned the sweet images. 'Skye was an absolute champion and brought our man into the world while looking like an absolute star.' Bride and Prejudice star Denton Ansley has welcomed his first child Denton continued: 'We got Hunter home yesterday afternoon and we cant describe how lucky and wonderful we are feeling with our family growing. 'Both Nans have also made sure theyve come in and got as many cuddles as possible!' The post was met with a flurry of congratulations from friends and followers with the likes of: 'Welcome to the world little man! We are so happy youre here! Much love to mum (superhuman) and to dad too!!' Another chimed in with a similar: 'Hes adorable. Congratulations to you both. Thank goodness you found happiness xx' A third added: 'Congratulations to you both on the safe arrival of Hunter .. Skye was amazing in this journey.. Hunter is beautiful...welcome to parenthood.' Denton's auspicious news comes after his ex, Dannii Erskine was embroiled in a bizarre fake death story following the couple's reality show stint. The death hoax started when a person allegedly claimed to be Dannii's 'sister' Dee said the TV star died in hospital following a horrific car crash in North Melbourne that left her brain dead. A death notice also appeared on Dannii's hacked Instagram account. The reality star took to Instagram last week to share the news that he and wife Skye Ansley had become parents. 'Introducing the new main man in our lives Hunter Harley Ansley born on the 01/01/2025 at 7:10pm weighing in at 3.260 kilos. @skye.ansley and I couldnt be happier about the arrival of our little man,' Denton captioned the sweet images 'I did not fake my own death. There has been too much loss [among the Bride and Prejudice cast] as it is, and we all know how sad that's been,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'It's not just disgusting and cruel, it's humiliating for everybody - not just for myself, but also for my family. If I wanted to disappear, I would just shut everything [social media accounts] down. It's really just common sense; I don't understand.' A furious Dannii said she was particularly 'disgusted' by her ex-husband Denton Ansley, whom she has not spoken to for 18 months, for speaking out before knowing whether she was really dead. 'I am disgusted in my husband - my ex-husband, sorry - for the way he's gone and spoken about me. I would never, in my entire life, if the tables reversed, do that to somebody,' she said. The emotional toll was evident as Dannii spoke of the brutal cyberbullying she faced by trolls who falsely accused her of faking her own death. 'This is why people commit suicide,' she said. 'They are nasty. What people write behind [my back] because they're too scared to come and confront me. 'They write behind a keyboard, and they say all these nasty comments when they can't face me face to face.' Denton appeared on the 2019 season of the short-lived Channel Seven reality show with 'controversial' bride Dannii Erskine When asked why she didn't shut down the reports of her death straight away, Dannii said she had been 'advised not to comment or post' on social media because she was in hospital at the time recovering from foot surgery. 'They said, 'You need to focus on your recovery. This is just going to stress you out,'' she explained. 'Mental health is a massive thing these days, and people don't understand that this type of stuff is wrong and disgusting.' Dannii went on to reveal she was 'incredibly sore' following an ankle reconstruction on May 1, which stemmed from injuries sustained in a 'real car accident' in September 2022. Dannii said the September collision resulted in her being hospitalised and having to undergo rehabilitation for three months. Nikki Glaser revealed the wildest and most controversial jokes she removed from her opening monologue at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night. While reflecting on towing the line between comedy and mockery as she poked fun at Hollywood's biggest stars, the comedian, 40, shared a list of harsh quips that did not make the cut during an interview with Howard Stern. The wisecracks that she didn't end up saying on stage at the Beverly Hilton included shots at A-listers ranging from Ben Affleck to Alec Baldwin. Additionally, she refrained from making a Diddy joke, which she feared would have the audience 'turn on' her, and a Hitler reference that did not land with her 'Gen Z assistant.' While appearing on SiriusXM's The Howard Stern Show on January 6, Glaser read off a list of jokes that she opted against sharing on the main broadcast. Nikki Glaser revealed the 10 wildest and most controversial jokes she removed from her opening monologue at the 2025 Golden Globes on Sunday night; seen on January 06, 2025 'The Golden Globes is the only show where you can see the biggest stars and movies and television joined together with the same goal getting out of here tonight before Dax Shepard asked them to do his podcast,' she began. 'This is the last time all of you will be in the same room together until the Diddy trial.' As for why she didn't end up cracking that particular joke, Glaser explained she feared people in the room would feel she was 'accusing' of them of being 'involved' in his legal issues and buck the association. Still, she ended up throwing in another, eyebrow-raising Diddy joke, which involved Zendaya. 'Zendaya is here. Zendaya, you were incredible in Dune. Oh, my God, I woke up for all of your scenes. You were so good. And Challengers, girl? It was so good. I mean, that movie was more sexually charged than Diddy's credit card,' she joked. 'Oh, I'm upset too. The afterparty's not going to be good this year. But, we have to move on. A Stanley Tucci freak-off just doesn't have the same ring to it. No baby oil this year, just lots of olive oil.' Another that didn't make the cut alluded to Luigi Mangioni, who has been charged with murder in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Glaser had intended on making the following joke: 'Glen Powell is nominated tonight for Hit Man. Who would have thought that by the end of the year, you'd only be the second hottest hit man in America.' The performer also held back from making any Catholic Church pedophile jokes. 'We've all heard them, we don't need more of that,' she said about the following joke. While reflecting on towing the line between comedy and mockery as she poked fun at Hollywood's biggest stars, the comedian, 40, shared a list of harsh quips that did not make the cut during an interview with Howard Stern The wisecracks that she didn't end up saying on stage at the Beverly Hilton included shots at A-listers ranging from Ben Affleck to Alec Baldwin; seen at the 82nd Annual Golden Globes Before deciding not to go in that direction, she said she almost said this joke: 'I loved Conclave. It's about the choosing a new pope. It was heartwarming. It will touch you so much that the church will have to move it to another theater. Hot tip: You don't need ID to get into the Conclave after party.' Glaser also stopped herself from making a quip, in which she referred to Adrien Brody as a 'two-time Holocaust survivor' for starring in two Holocaust movies (The Pianist and The Brutalist) that would 'thank baby Hitler for his career.' Another joke that went unsaid was: 'Only Murders in the Building is amazing. I think it's so cool that legends like Steve Martin, Martin Short and Meryl Streep are still at it. It just goes to show you that you're never too old to still need money. Why are you still working to hard? What's going on, did you get caught up in the Hawk Tuah crypto scheme?' Perhaps one of the most hilarious included a swipe at Ben Affleck's divorce from Jennifer Lopez. Although she still made another joke at Affleck's expense, she did remove this one: 'Here's Ben Affleck. I can't wait to see which Jennifer you try to ruin next.' Perhaps one of the most hilarious included a swipe at Ben Affleck's divorce from Jennifer Lopez; seen on January 7, 2024 Glaser had intended on making the following joke: 'Glen Powell is nominated tonight for Hit Man. Who would have thought that by the end of the year, you'd only be the second hottest hit man in America' Another joke she didn't say was: 'The Wild Robot is nominated tonight. And by that, I mean Nicole Kidman after two white wines' She also was on the fence about poking fun at Amy Adams, but ended up deciding against it. Glaser revealed she wanted to say: 'Amy Adams is nominated for her performance in Night Bitch, while I was totally snubbed for my performance in Day Slut. The documentary category is tough, though, by the way, Night Bitch is what Diddy hears every evening before it's lights out.' Another joke she didn't say was: 'The Wild Robot is nominated tonight. And by that, I mean Nicole Kidman after two white wines.' Glaser also axed one about Alec Baldwin and the Rust incident, which left Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, that she said was 'too mean.' The comedian said she nearly said: 'Michael Keaton was so great in Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice and Alec Baldwin, sadly, did not come back to play a ghost because he was too busy making them.' The last that went on said was: 'To sound like Bob Dylan, Timothee Chalamet took years of vocal lessons because, apparently, that's how long it takes to learn to smoke 40,000 cigarettes. Timothee took lessons in guitar, dialect movement and vocals to become Bob Dylan, while Bob Dylan became Bob Dylan the old-fashioned way heroin and autism. Undiagnosed, but come on now, a lot of songs about trains.' Paddy McGuinness has revealed that he was like 'the Jeff Bezos of Bolton' as he earned 17.50 a week aged 16 while he walked to work with holes in his shoes. The comedian, 51, returned to where he first landed a paying job in his latest episode of BBC's Inside The Factory - Warburtons bread factory. But in a chat with The Mirror, Paddy revealed that while he used to walk there in split trainers he used to feel like Jeff Bezos. He explained that in 1989 he used to clean out the ovens for the factory and would get paid less than 20 for all his hard work. And while that may not seem like a lot now, Paddy revealed that back in then even a tenner would make you feel rich in Bolton. He told the publication: 'It was a lovely feeling knowing you had a tenner. Paddy McGuinness has revealed that he was the Jeff Bezos of Bolton as he earned 17.50 a week aged 16 while walking to work with holes in his shoes The comedian, 51, returned to where he first landed a paying job in his latest episode of BBC's Inside The Factory 'A tenner back then in Bolton with me and my mates, I was like f***ing Jeff Bezos, you know.' Paddy then went on to explain that he would wake up everyday Saturday at 6am during the winter. And his determination to earn some cash was unbreakable as he revealed that he would still turn up when it was cold and wet. He added: 'It was always raining, pitch black and freezing. I had a hole in my trainer where my sock would hang out.' Paddy has seemed to have settled well into his new hosting role exploring factories. He made his Inside The Factory debut alongside Cherry Healy 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. Previously Paddy revealed he was nervous about working with co-host Cherry for the first time, in an interview with The Sun 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 '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. 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 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. Clive Myrie has reassured worried viewers, after many noticed his swollen eye while he was hosting Monday night's BBC News at Six. The newsreader, 60, has presented the weekday news bulletin on BBC One for the past decade, but sparked a flood of concern during the latest live broadcast. As he read out the latest reports from around the world, fans were quick to notice his left eye was drooping throughout the programme. Fearing the worst, many took to social media to reach out to the BBC to check that all was well and express their concerns for Clive. They wrote: '@BBCNews is Clive Myrie ok? His left eye is droopy??'; 'Whats wrong with Clive Myries eye tonight?'; 'Something wrong with Clive Myries left eye @BBCNews?' 'Just noticed that Clive Myrie has a slight droop in his left eyelid. Has that always been there or has he had a stroke recently?'; 'What's Clive Myrie done to his eye'. Clive Myrie has reassured worried viewers, after many noticed his swollen eye while he was hosting Monday night's BBC News at Six (pictured) The newsreader, 60, has presented the weekday news bulletin on BBC One for the past decade, but sparked a flood of concern during the latest live broadcast As he read out the latest reports from around the world, fans were quick to notice his left eye was drooping throughout the programme 'Is Clive Myrie okay? His left eye looks inflamed.'; @BBCNews just want to check that clive myrie is okay? His right eye looks a bit puffier than usual '#BBCNews what has Clive Myrie done to his eye, has someone thumped him?'; 'what's the matter with Clive Myrie's left eye?'; 'Is Clive Myrie OK? His eye's drooping' 'I hope Clive Myrie's OK. A lot of us are noticing his droopy eye.'; 'Clive Myrie needs to get that droopy left eyelid checked out sharpish.' However, Clive soon took to X to clear up any fears, explaining he was just suffering from a non-serious infection as he thanked fans for their concerns. In his typical humorous tone, the Mastermind host quipped that he had wanted to wear an eyepatch, but had been denied by bosses because he resembled a pirate. He wrote: 'Happy N.Year everyone and thank you all for your concern over my left eye. Its nothing serious, just an infection. 'I did think about wearing an eye patch, but the boss said no! A bit like Long John Silver. He wasnt having any of it! Cheers.' It comes after Clive apologised last month for failing to properly declare nearly 30 different external speaking engagements worth at least 150,000. Fearing the worst, many took to social media to reach out to the BBC to check that all was well and express their concerns for Clive However, Clive soon took to X to clear up any fears, explaining he was just suffering from a non-serious infection as he thanked fans for their concerns In his typical humorous tone, the broadcaster quipped that he had wanted to wear an eyepatch, but had been denied by bosses because he resembled a pirate He earned the money from corporate events including speeches at functions hosted by Dutch bank ING and the Royal College of Surgeons, stretching back all the way to 2021, when the BBC introduced the rules to protect its impartiality. Clive already earns around 310,000-a-year for presenting the News At One, News At Six and News At Ten, as well an undisclosed sum for his work on Mastermind. A source said that the broadcaster had been 'very foolish' not to list the corporate gigs, saying: 'Whatever sins of greed or pride they commit, declare it and youre forgiven.' They added that there was 'quite a bit of bitterness' over the issue, which they said was yet more evidence that star anchors are 'not deities the BBC builds them up to be'. Last month, Clive said he would not be 'taking part' in any more paid external events, as the BBC is now set to introduce tougher rules about the 'volume' of 'paid external events' that its news stars are allowed to take. He blamed 'several administrative issues' for the large sums of cash that were never declared, adding 'I didn't fill out out the correct paperwork for some of my external public events'. Taking to X to offer his 'sincere apologies' to the public, Clive wrote: 'An apology I've had several administrative issues, and I didn't fill out the correct paperwork for some of my external public events, so they haven't been published until now. 'I've told the BBC I won't be taking part in any more paid external events in the foreseeable future, beyond a handful of pre-existing commitments, so that this doesn't happen again. My sincere apologies. Thanks, Clive.' It comes after Clive apologised last month for failing to properly declare nearly 30 different external speaking engagements worth at least 150,000 (pictured in May) Dina Broadhurst may have split from her boyfriend John Winning Jr last month, but she proved on Tuesday she's got what it takes to bag another multimillionaire. The 'nude artist', 46, shared several photos from completely naked photoshoot taken during a trip to Spain last year. The Sydney socialite used a film camera to take artful images of her fit figure as she stretched out on the ground. She covered her modesty only with tiny white scribbles, leaving nothing to the imagination as she flaunted her best angles. The underexposed images offered a tantalising peek at Dina's flawless silhouette as she stretched her lithe frame out on a large white ottoman. 'See Me, Alicante on film,' Dina captioned the sizzling reel of photographs. Dina Broadhurst, 46, (pictured) may have split from her boyfriend John Winning Jr last month, but she proved on Tuesday she's got what it takes to bag another multimillionaire The 'nude artist', 46, shared several photos from completely naked photoshoot taken during a trip to Spain last year It comes after Dina and her multimillionaire Winning Appliances boyfriend John Winning Jr called time on their relationship in December. The couple were together for more than eight months before abruptly ending things. Dina and John, the son of appliances mogul John Winning Snr whose family is worth an estimated $700 million, began dating back in March 2024. They confirmed their romance in May when they attended a rave in California together. She 'soft-launched' him by featuring him in one of her social media posts, with sources saying at the time the pair were 'smitten' with each other. John took over as CEO of Winning Appliances in 2011 at the age of 22 and steered the business in a new direction with Appliances Online, which is now Australia's largest online retailer for appliances. The family business was started by his great-grandfather Richard William Winning in 1906 with the trading name R.W. Winning & Co and has become a leading kitchen and laundry appliance specialist. As well as running Winning Appliances, John is also an experienced sailor who won line honours with his crew on board Andoo Comanche in the 2022 Sydney to Hobart yacht race. The Sydney socialite used a film camera to take artful images of her fit figure as she stretched out on the ground 'See Me, Alicante on film,' Dina captioned the sizzling reel of photographs It comes after Dina and her multimillionaire Winning Appliances boyfriend John Winning Jr (right) called time on their relationship in December The skipper sailed the race alongside his father John Winning Sr, who previously won the Sydney to Hobart line honours back in 1976. In his spare time, John is an adrenaline fiend with a love for skydiving. He is also a DJ and has performed for crowds on lavish yachts, in Ibiza nightclubs and even at Glastonbury. John reportedly lives in an eclectic Surry Hills bachelor pad featuring its own private nightclub, a see-through smoking room and a swimming pool. Dina was previously in a relationship with Max Shepherd, 31, but it emerged in June 2023 they had parted ways after four-and-a-half years together. Following the break-up, the socialite was briefly linked to property investor Tony Benjamin before taking up with John Jr. Jennifer Garner was spotted out and about in Los Angeles on Monday in the wake of her ex-husband Ben Affleck's finalized divorce from Jennifer Lopez. The 52-year-old 13 Going On 30 actress who posted outtakes from a snowy getaway on Sunday appeared in high spirits as she flashed her megawatt smile while heading to Soho House in West Hollywood. Garner showed off her toned legs in a belted black skirt that cropped above her knees. She added inches to her height in a pair of sky-high, sleek, black heels and bundled up in a slouchy black sweater and cropped coat. Her long, glossy, brunette locks were arranged in a side part with sideswept bangs as they flowed over her chest. Jennifer's glowy complexion was enhanced with a light touch of makeup and she wore chic brown sunglasses. Jennifer Garner was spotted out and about in Los Angeles on Monday in the wake of her ex-husband Ben Affleck's finalized divorce from Jennifer Lopez The 52-year-old 13 Going On 30 actress appeared in high spirits as she flashed her megawatt smile while heading to Soho House in West Hollywood Garner showed off her toned legs in a belted black skirt that cropped above her knees Lopez, 55, and Affleck, 52, have settled their divorce five months after the Bronx-bred actress filed to dissolve the marriage. She famously filed the paperwork on the date of their second wedding anniversary. The union will officially end on February 20, with each party walking away with what he and she individually acquired during their brief time as husband and wife. Additionally, they have reached an agreement on their $61 million Beverly Hills home, but the terms remain private. The now-exes tied the knot without a prenup in place. Jennifer and Ben, known collectively to fans as "Bennifer," eloped at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas on July 16, 2022. It came nearly 20 years after they broke off their initial engagement in 2004. Weeks later on August 20, they exchanged vows at Affleck's estate outside of Savannah, Georgia in front of family and friends. Lopez, 55, and Affleck, 52, have settled their divorce five months after the Bronx-bred actress filed to dissolve the marriage; pictured in February 2024 The union will officially end on February 20, with each party walking away with what he and she individually acquired during their brief time as husband and wife; pictured in January 2024 Jennifer and Ben, known collectively to fans as "Bennifer," eloped at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas on July 16, 2022. It came nearly 20 years after they broke off their initial engagement in 2004; pictured in December 2002 Following their split last year, Jennifer opened up to Interview magazine about the demise of the marriage. 'It feels lonely, unfamiliar, scary. It feels sad. It feels desperate,' she told comedian Nikki Glaser in an in-depth chat. She added, 'But when you sit in those feelings and go, These things are not going to kill me, its like actually, I am capable of joy and happiness all by myself. Being in a relationship doesnt define me. 'I cant be looking for happiness in other people. I have to have happiness within myself. I used to say Im a happy person, but was still looking for something for somebody else to fill, and its just like, No, Im actually good.' Chelsea Waddell has confirmed she has split from Flight Facilities star Jimmy Lyell. The fine arts consultant took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday to announce her 'painful' separation from the Australian DJ, with whom she shares two children. In an emotional statement, she penned: 'After a lot of reflection, I need to share that my relationship with Jimmy has come to an end. This wasn't a decision made lightly.' 'This is an incredibly hard time for myself and our two kids, but my focus now is on healing, growing, and creating a positive future for myself and my two little boys,' she went on. 'The children we share are my absolute priority and my greatest source of strength as we move forward. 'As a very private person, I'm not sharing this to invite sympathy or to open up conversations about it. Chelsea Waddell has confirmed she has split from Flight Facilities star Jimmy Lyell (both pictured) 'I'm sharing this because I want to be honest to the people we are connected with, but mostly I want to avoid the pain of having to explain this over and over to people. 'So I ask with kindness, that if you see me, we leave this topic out. This is a conversation that is too painful for me to have right now. 'Thank you for respecting my privacy and giving me space as my boys and I navigate this huge change in our lives.' Daily Mail Australia has contacted Chelsea and Flight Facilities for comment. Chelsea declined to comment. The couple, who live in Byron Bay, have been together since 2017 but they are believed to have first met back in 2009. In a 2021 interview, Chelsea said: 'Jim and I met in what now, during 2021, seems very romantic and old fashioned it was 12 years ago in a nightclub. 'I was working on the door, and he was the DJ playing there that night.' They didn't strike up a romance until later and Jimmy, also known by his stage name Jimmy2Sox, first began featuring in posts on Chelsea's Instagram in March 2018. It is not known exactly how long the couple (pictured), who live in Byron Bay, have been together but they are believed to have first met back in 2009 They welcomed their first child together, a son called Louie, in April 2020 and welcomed their second child less than a year ago in June 2024. They also run a luxury rental accommodation called Joints in Byron Bay and frequently share glimpses inside the sprawling pad on social media. Jimmy is best-known for being one half of popular Aussie DJ group Flight Facilities, which he founded with Hugo Gruzman in 2009. They shot to fame in 2014 with their debut album Down to Earth, which features names such as Kylie Minogue, Emma Louise, Reggie Watts and Bishop Nehru. Just weeks ago in December, the DJing duo came under fire as were accused of drug-shaming fans when they shared a shocking video from their concert. Flight Facilities posted a now-deleted video of two fans in the crowd high on drugs, with fans then accusing them of 'preying on people's vulnerability'. Followers slammed the electronic musicians for 'disrespecting' the concert-goers by sharing their experience - and faces - on drugs with millions of online viewers. One TikTok user, AnneArchery, made her own video criticising Flight Facilities for the shocking move, saying she was 'disgusted' they would do such a thing. The couple welcomed their first child together, a son called Louie, in April 2020 and welcomed their second child less than a year ago in June 2023 Jimmy is best-known for being one half of popular Aussie DJ group Flight Facilities, which he founded with Hugo Gruzman (both pictured in 2014) in 2009 'I was shook. I was actually disgusted that artists are using the safe space of a rave which they go on about, you know, rave culture, PLUR [Peace Love Unity Respect], everyone having a good time, everyone respecting each other, but then not respecting people in the crowd,' she fumed. 'The level of disrespect that you would have to have for your fanbase to do that. Maybe the people in the crowd don't care. But now it's like, would I go to a Flight Facilities event? Probably not. 'And if I did go I definitely wouldn't be having a good time because I would be f***ing wigging out the whole time.' Anne said that while she doesn't condone the use of drugs, it isn't anyone else's business if someone decides to take them, claiming Flight Facilities were 'preying on people's vulnerability' for the sake of online views. Save Our Scene UK live music advocate George Fleming also told The News Movement that 'using someone's vulnerability for viral content is deeply unethical, irresponsible, and potentially very harmful'. Flight Facilities deleted the video following the backlash, but have a similar video from September still pinned to their TikTok page. Daily Mail Australia reached out to representatives of Flight Facilities for comment at the time. Lauded Australian costume designer Terry Ryan has died. Back to Crawford Productions, a Facebook group dedicated to preserving the memory of the iconic Australian television production house, shared the news of Terry's passing last week. 'Sad to report the passing last Monday of ex Crawford Costume Designer Terry Ryan,' the post read. 'Though there are no details of Terry's death at this stage, if we hear anything we will certainly pass any news on.' The post was augmented with two photos of Terry, one showing him sharing a light-hearted moment with Crawford's wardrobe supervisor Gardi Seymour. News of the multiple award-winning designer's death was met with a raft of tributes from colleagues and fans. Lauded Australian costume designer Terry Ryan has died His talents were utilised in a raft of Australian big and small screen fare, such as the WWII mini-series The Cowra Breakout and the Peter Weir-directed, Mel Gibson led film The Year Of Living Dangerously. Terry is pictured with Crawford's wardrobe supervisor Gardi Seymour One follower replied to the sad news, remembering Terry as being 'full of life'. 'So sorry to hear this. Terry was one of a kind, full of life, a wonderful dry wit,' they wrote. Another chimed in with a similar: 'Awww, Terry. Hadn't seen you for several years but so sad to hear this.' A third summed up the sentiment with: 'Thats so sad very fond memories.' Terry enjoyed quite the long and storied career both in Australia and abroad. His first big screen film credit was on the 1980 fantasy horror Harlequin, starring David Hemmings and Gus Mercurio. His talents were also utilised in a raft of Australian big and small screen fare such as the WWII mini-series The Cowra Breakout and the Peter Weir-directed, Mel Gibson led film, The Year Of Living Dangerously. He also worked on the iconic 1981 Mel Gibson film, Gallipoli, for which he nabbed an Australian Film Institute award nomination. He also worked on the iconic 1981 Mel Gibson film, Gallipoli, for which he nabbed an Australian Film Institute award nomination Terry was also nominated for a Best Achievement in Costume Design AFI award for his work on the 1994 Toni Collette hit, Muriel's Wedding He also provided the looks for Peter Jackson's King Kong remake, which starred Jack Black, Cate Blanchett and Adrien Brody Terry was eventually nominated for an AFI award ten times, winning an impressive six. Most notably, Terry was nominated for Best Achievement in Costume Design for his work on the 1994 Toni Collette hit Muriel's Wedding. Terry's work was recognised globally as well, with the talented Aussie nabbing a Primetime Emmy nomination for his work on the sci-fi series Farscape. He also provided the looks for Peter Jackson's King Kong remake, which starred Jack Black, Cate Blanchett and Adrien Brody. His work on King Kong earned Terry several best costume nominations, including one at the 2006 Saturn Awards. Throughout his career, Terry worked on a formidable 50 productions as a costume designer. According to IMDB, Terry's last big screen credit was on the 2015 Roland Joffe-directed action-romance, The Lovers. While best known for his word as a costume designer, Terry also provided the voice of Derryn the Dopey dog in the '90s ABC kids show, The Ferals. Australian actress Yael Stone has reunited with her Orange is the New Black co-star Uzo Aduba. Stone, 39, shared a photo to social media in which she was tenderly embraced by her close friend and former co-star, who she acted alongside in the US comedy-drama from 2014 - 2019. She was all smiles in the heartfelt photo in which she was seen posing up a storm alongside her close friend as they reunited recently. The pair colour-coordinated in similar looking black and white stripped outfits as they laughed it up during their heartfelt reunion. The All Saints star was also seen being introducted to Aduba's one-year-old daughter Adaiba Lee as she gently played with the bub. The reunion looked to be taking place in Sydney, where Aduba was recently spotted enjoying her New Years, after Yael swore off Hollywood several years ago. Australian actress Yael Stone has reunited with her Orange is the New Black co-star Uzo Aduba. Both pictured The Sydney-born actress captioned the photo with some reflective words: 'My dear friend @uzoaduba - how I have missed you. See the little hands clinging to our bodies, outside the frame of this photo is real life. How we have grown, changed, we are both mothers now and the things we loved in each other have deepened. The fruit of a long friendship. 'For your beautiful baby to reach out to me for a cuddle was the very best gift of the first day of this new year.' The Aussie actress, who is best known for her role as Lorna Morello on the Netflix hit comedy series Orange Is The New Black, gave up her Hollywood career in 2019 to return to Australia and 'work on climate action'. In response to the 2019-2020 bushfire season in Australia, the actress gave up her United States green card to return Down Under permanently in order to fight a 'climate war.' On Australian Story last year, the 39-year-old said the turning point occurred years after meeting her partner Jack Manning Bancroft and realising the pair shared similar ambitions. 'I'm sure there are people who look at my decisions and think they're a little unhinged in terms of totally self-sabotaging my career,' she shared with the ABC. 'I think a lot of people be like, "This lady is cuckoo." But you have to make the choices you can live with.' Stone, 39, shared a photo to social media in which she was tenderly embraced by her close friend and former co-star, which she acted alongside in the US comedy-drama from 2014 - 2019. Pictured The All Saints star was also seen being introducted to Aduba's one-year-old daughter Adaiba Lee as she gently played with the bub In 2020, Stone said she came to the decision to give up her life in the United States 'after a long, considered process'. 'We've come to understand it's unethical for us to set up a life in two countries, knowing what we know,' Stone said in a video posted to social media at the time, describing the travel as 'environmentally unjust'. 'The carbon emissions alone from that flying unethical. It's not right,' said Stone in her statement. 'So I will be going through the process of giving up my green card, and saying goodbye to a life in America. I'm going to be here in Australia doing the the work I can to make a difference here. Because the time is now.' Having worked extensively in Australian theatre, Stone won two Sydney Theatre Awards before moving to New York in 2011. At the 2008 Sydney Theatre Awards, she won the awards for Best Newcomer and Best Supporting Actress for her performance in The Kid - She also starred in Australian dramas All Saints and Spirited. The energetic performer is a vocal advocate for several causes, including women's rights and environmentalism. The actress and her partner Manning Bancroft have been together after reconnecting in 2016. They share daughters Pemau Stone Bancroft, six, and Marli, two. Jocelyn Wildenstein's former fiance spoke about plans moving forward in the wake of the socialite's death at 84 last week. Wildenstein's body will be cremated and transported to a Kenyan ranch where her parents' remains are, according to fashion designer Lloyd Klein, 57, who was with Wildenstein in her final moments. A 'small and private' funeral service will be held for Wildenstein in Paris, Klein told TMZ Monday, prior to her remains being taken to Kenya, a place she was very fond of. Wildenstein's father is buried on the ranch grounds, and her mother's ashes were scattered there, Klein said, adding that it was 'fitting' she would end up at a place she loved dearly. Klein, speaking to People Wednesday, attributed Wildenstein's December 31 death in Paris to the chronic medical condition phlebitis. 'Because of her phlebitis, the legs were very, very swollen, and the blood was blocked, and there was no oxygen in the brain,' Klein told the publication. (Phlebitis is a condition in which blood vessels become inflamed, according to WebMD, and can sometimes lead to potentially deadly blood clots.) Jocelyn Wildenstein's former fiance spoke about plans moving forward in the wake of the socialite's death at 84 last week. Pictured in 2022 in NYC Fashion designer Lloyd Klein, 57, who was with Wildenstein in her final moments, said her body will be cremated and transported to a Kenyan ranch where her parents' remains are; pictured in 2019 in Miami, Florida Wildenstein had died of a pulmonary embolism, which is when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the lungs, AFP reported. The deadly condition is often caused by blood clots in the legs that travel to the lungs, according to the Mayo Clinic. Klein added that Wildenstein's grandmother had also suffered from phlebitis, but the condition didn't negatively affect their holiday celebrations, and he said she was otherwise in 'impeccable health.' Wildenstein, who was dubbed the 'Catwoman' due to her appearance-altering cosmetic surgeries over the years, died 'peacefully' in her sleep, her longtime partner added. 'We had a nice happy hour the same night and we were getting ready for the new year, and we took a little nap just to look good before getting dressed,' Klein recalled. 'We were having a nap and when I [woke] up, I said, "Jocelyn, we have to wake up, we have to get dressed," and she was cold and she was dead,' he added. 'Its very sad. Its extremely sad,' the French designer continued somberly. 'Its extremely sad to lay down with your other half that I know for 21 years and waiting to celebrate New Years Eve and to find her cold.' He recalled that 'everything was good' in his final days with his fiancee, and he said that Wildenstein, who had been spending time with him in Paris, had been 'very happy' and 'at the top of her game' at the time. 'Because of her phlebitis, the legs were very, very swollen, and the blood was blocked, and there was no oxygen in the brain,' Klein told the publication; seen together in 2015 in NYC The condition describes inflammation of blood vessels. It was reported by AFP that Wildenstein had died of a pulmonary embolism, which is when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the lungs; pictured in September 2022 in NYC Wildenstein, dubbed the 'Catwoman' due to her appearance-altering cosmetic surgeries, died 'peacefully' in her sleep, her longtime partner added; pictured together in May 2023 in LA Wildenstein was last seen looking healthy on December 18 in Paris with Klein. The star smiled at onlookers while in a fur jacket, leggings and boots as she wore black sunglasses and styled her blonde hair in soft waves over her shoulders. Following her divorce from Alec N. Wildenstein, Jocelyn began dating Klein in 2003. The two later got engaged, but they have had a bumpy relationship over the years. In 2016, Wildenstein was arrested for slashing Klein's face with scissors during a fight at her Trump Tower apartment. Klein was subsequently arrested days later for robbery and assault after he allegedly tried to retrieve some of his belongings from Wildenstein's apartment. But the couple later reunited. The Swiss-born socialite, who had over 1 million Instagram followers, described herself as an 'art dealer.' Klein said the two took a nap before their New Year's Eve festivities, but when he awoke he found Wildenstein 'was cold and she was dead'; seen in May 2023 in LA Here she is seen at a much younger age as she held onto a child She came from humble origins, only to tie the knot in the 1970s with a French-born American billionaire. But the two courted headlines just over two decades later with their messy divorce. She became one of the wealthiest people on the planet after her divorce settlement, which left her with more than $2 billion, plus millions more annually. But she somehow managed to lose it all after years of tinkering with her face and spending on countless luxuries. The high society fixture was married to the late art dealer and billionaire Alec N. Wildenstein, who was the son of the French art dealer and horse breeder Daniel Wildenstein. Their family presided over Wildenstein & Co., an influential Paris-based art dealership. While speaking to The Times of London, Jocelyn described how she became fascinated by Africa and its fauna after finding a box of picture books about the continent when she was a child. Later, she developed an interest in hunting and wildlife, which led her to the Wildenstein family ranch Ol Jogi, located in Kenya. Wildenstein was previously married to Alec N. Wildenstein. They met at his family's African ranch in 1977 before eloping in Las Vegas in 1978; pictured in 2000 in Paris Jocelyn lived a life of luxury with Wildenstein, but they divorced in 2000, allegedly after she discovered his infidelities. She won a stunning $2.5B in the divorce, plus $100M to be paid annually for 13 years; pictured in 1997 in Manhattan But the lion-faced socialite frittered away the fortune through extravagant purchases. She also claims a painting comprising part of her trust turned out to be a forgery, while another was auctioned for tens of millions less than expected; seen in 2017 in NYC There, she was introduced on a safari to Alec by Adnan Khashoggi, a Saudi arms dealer. Jocelyn recalled how Alec decided to kill a lion that had been killing nearby antelope, so she accompanied him on a pre-dawn mission. She recounted how, after her future husband took down the lion with one shot plus a second for good measure they ate part of the animal as a kind of trophy and rubbed its blood on their necks. 'You must eat a part of the heart of your game,' she said. 'Its legend. Maybe to take the power of the lion.' But by the '90s, Jocelyn was completely unrecognizable after her face was transformed reportedly from numerous cosmetic surgeries. They left her with slanted cat eyes, a prominent chin and exaggerated cheek bones, which some have compared to a lion's face. Despite the obvious change in her appearance, Wildenstein at one time bizarrely claimed to have never had plastic surgery. Alec did comment on her face. He told Vanity Fair, 'She was crazy. I would always find out last. She was thinking that she could fix her face like a piece of furniture. Skin does not work that way. But she wouldnt listen.' Wildenstein was arrested for assault in 2016 after slashing Klein's face with scissors, and he was arrested for robbery and assault days later while allegedly trying to take his belongings from her apartment. But the two reunited and are together to this day; seen in 2017 in NYC Wildenstein fired back that he 'hired a publicist and paid a plastic surgeon to certify that I completely changed my face' to win the divorce, she stated. More recently she owned up to having some procedures, though she downplayed its impact. In the wake of years of reported over-the-top spending and seemingly unending cosmetic procedures, Alec filed for divorce in 1999, though Jocelyn has said she was the one to first decide to end the marriage due to her husband's infidelities. Although he filed for divorce in Switzerland, where Jocelyn was less likely to get a significant divorce settlement, she ended up receiving what should have been a windfall a reported $2.5 billion. On top of that, she was to be paid $100 million per year for 13 years by her ex-husband, and later his estate following his death in 2008 at 67. However, her ex-husband's family cut off the payments in 2015. Despite obtaining more wealth than most people could ever imagine, Wildenstein managed to fritter it away through extravagant purchases on clothing, jewels, art and even tens of thousands of dollars in annual phone bills. In 2018, she claimed to Page Six that the vast majority of her wealth disappeared because one of the paintings that was part of the trust set up for her in the divorce settlement, attributed to Diego Velazquez, turned out to be a forgery, while a Cezanne that was expected to go for around $35 on auction only sold for $4.7 million Rose Jacobs appeared to be living the high life on Monday as she stripped down to a saucy red bikini while on holiday in Bali. The travel journalist, 44, flaunted her incredible figure in a racy two-piece as she filmed herself at her lavish tropical accommodation, posting the clip to Instagram. Rocking a bright smile as she lived it up in luxury, Rosie accessorised her beachwear look only a white shirt, which she left open. Rosie, who avoided jail time for a driving offence in 2023, proudly displayed her designer Yves Saint Laurent handbag in the video. The ex-wife of TV weatherman Steve Jacobs also flaunted a pair of Dior sandals she bought on the tropical Indonesian island, which usually retail for $1,750. She later stepped out for some 'Bali shopping' with her mother, opting to cover up her racy G-string bikini bottoms with a pair of matching red shorts. Rose Jacobs, 44, (pictured) appeared to be living the high life on Monday as she stripped down to a saucy red bikini while on holiday in Bali 'If Bali shopping is wrong, then I don't wanna be right!' Rosie captioned the clip, which saw her trying on huge floppy hats with her mother. 'So much fun shopping up a storm with my bestie, my mama bear.' It comes after Rosie was spotted in a rare public sighting in July 2024 when she debuted a strikingly different new look while walking her dogs at Bondi Beach. She looked almost unrecognisable after ditching her brunette locks for a shorter, platinum blonde cut. The travel journalist cut a casual figure in black flared leggings, a turtleneck jumper and a grey padded jacket at the time. Rosie started her career as a television producer and has hosted shows for the Nine and Ten Networks, Foxtel and The Weather Channel. She married her now-ex-husband Steve in 2010 three years after meeting on the set of Today, where he was a weather presenter and she worked as a producer. The couple separated in late 2017, months after relocating to Vanuatu in what friends described as a 'last-ditch attempt' to save their marriage, and divorced in 2019. The travel journalist flaunted her fit figure in a racy two-piece as she filmed herself at her lavish tropical accommodation, posting the clip to Instagram Rocking a bright smile as she lived it up in the lap of luxury, Rosie covered up her lithe frame with only a flimsy white shirt as she showed off her designer handbag In January last year, Rosie avoided jail for what she described as a 'stupid decision' to drive on a suspended licence after her high-profile divorce. She pleaded guilty to driving her Audi Q3 three times in the course of just four months across 2022 while her licence was suspended for previous offences. Rosie had been driving along Darlinghurst Road in Sydney's eastern suburbs on the morning of August 25 when she was stopped by police. Her driving permit had been suspended in May 2022 until March 2023, after she racked up five traffic violations in nine months while on a good behaviour licence. Less than three months later, she was busted by police again on Campbell Parade at Bondi. After officers used lights and warning signs to pull her over, court documents reveal she told police she was 'going through a lot at the moment' and 'not well'. Only four days later, she was pulled over again at Randwick. When police asked why she was driving without a licence, she replied 'no comment'. Magistrate Megan Greenwood recorded a conviction and handed her $1,650 in fines, 75 hours of community service and disqualified her from driving for three months. Rosie married her now-ex-husband Steve (right) in 2010 three years after meeting on the set of Today. They separated in late 2017 and divorced in 2019 'If you don't do what community corrections order [states] you can be jailed for this offending,' Ms Greenwood said at the time. In a lengthy social media post in January 2024, the former television personality addressed the charges and explained she had been going through a 'traumatic' time. She told followers she had experienced 'challenging times' with high anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder following her divorce. 'It's been a shocker!' she vented to her thousands of followers on Instagram. 'To top it all off, I made some stupid decisions to drive my car to the hospital post-surgery while on a suspended licence. I regret that decision.' The self-described 'sassy sober mama' explained she was 'in a lot of pain' at the time of the offence and made the regrettable choice to drive. 'I wish I could undo those moments. But I can't,' she admitted, before sharing her optimism for the future. Danny Pintauro appears to be on the mend, less than six weeks after a serious scooter accident left him hospitalized. The Who's The Boss? and Cujo actor celebrated turning 49 on Monday with an 'impromptu scar reveal photoshoot' he posted to Instagram, displaying the healing wound from the November 28 Thanksgiving night accident. The Milltown, New Jersey-born actor donned jeans and sipped wine in the Instagram post, which was set to Ariana Grande's 2018 track Sweetener. 'Well, this birthday certainly hits differently,' Pintauro wrote to more than 24,100 followers. 'Surviving 2024 is absolutely a special occasion! Survive in 2024, THRIVE in 2025. And then I decided to do a little impromptu scar reveal photoshoot!' Pintauro said in the post he 'decided to open the bottle of' Barefoot Wine's Limited Edition Pride 2020 he had on hand, noting that the had been saving the wine 'for a special occasion.' Pintauro took to the site last month with a series of clips of him recovering at Long Beach, California's Memorial Care Miller Hospital, showing the severe aftermath of the scooter accident, as he was hooked up to an intubation tube. Danny Pintauro, 49, appears to be on the mend, less than six weeks after a serious scooter accident left him hospitalized The one-time child actor explained the circumstances of the accident in a statement included in the social media posting. 'The bike lane I was riding in was suddenly blocked with cones, and I was forced to choose between a van and a pylon,' Pintauro said. 'The pylons hurt!! Have a terrible scrape on my arm and I was pretty convinced I had broken my arm.' Pintauro said that while he felt 'a whole lot better' on the Friday following the crash, he began 'having these weird chest pains' on Saturday, November 30. Pintauro said that while it initially felt as if his felt like his 'hiatal hernia was acting up,' he quickly realized the severity of the situation. 'Before long, the pain was so significant all across my chest and my stomach muscles and my shoulder muscles that I could barely breath,' Pintauro said. 'It was the worst moment of my life.' Pintauro said his husband Wil Tabares transported him to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a tear in his stomach lining that led to a bloodstream infection. The actor said doctors told him that 'air and stomach acid ... were escaping into [his] abdomen' - necessitating an emergency surgery. Surgery 'went well, and now that it's fixed, the pain is pretty much gone away, although I'm very sore,' Pintauro said at the time. Pintauro was seen in a Long Beach, California hospital in the aftermath of the November 28 accident The Milltown, New Jersey-born actor donned jeans and sipped wine in the Instagram post, which was set to Ariana Grande's 2018 track Sweetener Pintauro appeared on Who's The Boss? during the entirety of its 19841992 run. Pictured (L-R) the late Katherine Helmond, Tony Danza, Alyssa Milano, Judith Light and Pintauro Pintauro explained the aftercare medical professionals initiated in the wake of the procedure. 'They just took the intubation tube out, but I have to leave another tube in my stomach for three days to keep removing the acids so as to not upset the stitches and repair they did,' Pintauro said. 'Which also means that I won't be eating or drinking anything for the next three days. 'They always say this but it's very true, if I had waited any longer, I could have died. My body was the one who told me something was absolutely wrong.' Pintauro said on the site on December 19 that he subsequently 'had the stitches and the tube removed,' adding, 'I'm officially free of anything constricting, which feels great.' As a child, Pintauro played the role of Jonathan Bower on 196 episodes of the popular ABC sitcom Who's The Boss? during the entirety of its 19841992 run. The show starred Tony Danza and also featured Judith Light, Alyssa Milano and the late Katherine Helmond. Two Channel Seven stars have revealed how little they earn despite having high-profile roles. Reporter Rosanna Kingsun and news anchor Samantha Heathwood spoke to Getahead on Instagram in videos posted this week and were asked about their salaries. Rosanna said journalists at her level earn just $80,000-$90,000 per year despite having 12 years experience. 'I'm surprised at the salary. I was expecting they would be paid a lot more than $90k a year,' wrote one person in the comments. '80 to 90 that's s**t,' another blunt comment read while someone who viewed the clip else agreed. 'Not enuff! Should be minimum 140! Is this amount greed or simply the high cost of living?' said someone else. Two Channel Seven stars have left Australian television viewers stunned after revealing how little they earn. Pictured: Samantha Heathwood Reporter Rosanna Kingsun (pictured) and news anchor Samantha Heathwood spoke to Getahead on Instagram in videos posted this week and were asked about their salaries 'That's really low, can't live of that if she has a family,' yet another surprised person chimed in. Heathwood was asked the same question, and while she was being paid a lot more than her colleague, she still left viewers scratching their heads. The news presenter said she was earning 'well under $200,000' despite being in the industry for over 20 years. 'She deserves more than 200K,' said one person in the comments, adding that Nine's Today show presenter Karl Stefanovic gets much more. 'I bet Karl doesn't write, so how on earth he deserves more than 1 mil/year???' they continued. 'It's all about ratings and I truly hope she'll hit the jackpot sometime soon either through her writing or program rating'. Others shared their love for Heathwood with one person saying, 'One of my favorite interviews y'all have done. You can tell her passion for career!' Another wrote: 'Sam is one of the best news reader/reporters out! She's so kind and caring and gentle when she interviews you even in the hard times.' Rosanna told the host that TV journalists at her level earn just $80,000-$90,000 per year despite having 12 years experience Heathwood said she was earning 'well under $200,000' despite being in the industry for over 20 years Heathwood joined Channel Seven in 2021 after working as a regional newsreader for 9 News Queensland. Samantha presented the 6pm Channel Nine news bulletins for both regional Queensland and Darwin. The glamorous presenter sent the rumour mill into overdrive on New Year's Day after sharing her plans on social media. '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' she wrote on Instagram. 'Thank you @stulaundy44.' The post sparked speculation that Sam had reunited with her old flame, the playboy publican and former Bachelorette star Stu Laundy? However, cold water was quickly thrown over the chatter. 'She's a mate but dating-wise, she's outside the age bracket,' a friend of the hospitality maestro told Daily Mail Australia, referencing his penchant for dating younger women. Kingsun meanwhile has over a decade's experience across Queensland, Northern Territory and ACT. Before joining 7News Brisbane around 2020, she worked for Nine News in Darwin and Canberra, and WIN News in Canberra and Townsville. Love Island: All Stars bosses were reportedly stunned by the amount of upcoming contestants on the series who requested to use a certain app while in the villa. The reality stars have built their online profiles using platforms such as TikTok and Instagram since appearing on the show for the first time. However, it wasn't a social media app that they were all asking for access to once they enter the villa in the coming days. Islanders, who are under a strict phone ban on the show, have been begging to use language learning app Duolingo while on the show. According to the Mirror, the stars have been worried about losing their Duolingo 'streaks', which they gain by using the app each day. Apparently bosses were shocked by the amount of people who asked if there was a 'loophole' to be able to keep up their language skills in the South African villa. Love Island: All Stars bosses were reportedly stunned by the amount of upcoming contestants on the series who requested to use a certain app while in the villa Last month exclusively MailOnline revealed that Ekin-Su had become the first contestant to sign up for the new series (Ekin-Su Culculoglu pictured) A backstage source said: 'Everyone was amazed by the repeated requests about Duolingo, but theyve been told they will still have to forgo their phones.' Last month exclusively MailOnline revealed that Ekin-Su had become the first contestant to sign up for the new series. The former show winner, 30, who scooped the 50,000 cash prize with ex-boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti in 2022, will make a triumphant return to the series as she hopes to finally find a long-term partner. She won over ITV2 viewers during her first appearance on the show where she and Davide, who famously accused Ekin of being a 'liar' and an 'actress', became known for their tempestuous romance. After their bitter breakup earlier this year, Ekin starred on Celebrity Big Brother but was branded 'fake' by her housemates, with the reality star avoiding the show's final following an 'uncomfortable backlash.' Ekin later admitted to being in 'survival mode' and said she was carrying a lot of 'baggage' because of her split from Davide, who was accused of being unfaithful during their relationship on multiple occasions. But now, by returning to the show that made her name, Ekin hopes to be her own person again and finally find the right man to settle down with. A TV source told MailOnline: 'Ekin-Su has been the number one priority for casting producers, they know fans would love to see her return to the villa. Host Maya Jama, 30, is back as she prepares to welcome a new cohort of former singletons to the lavish South African villa in the hope of finding love (Gabby Allen pictured) Now show bosses have pulled out all the stops with their latest line-up which features a former show winner and iconic villain (Luca Bish pictured) 'She was so iconic during her first appearance on the show and now she's single again at the perfect time. 'The deal is agreed in principle, there's still some details to sort out, but there's huge hope she's finally agreed to take a second chance at finding long-lasting love in front of the nation. 'Ekin's in her 30s now too, she really wants to meet someone genuine who she can settle down with and after seeing it happen for last year's All Stars winners, she's keeping her fingers crossed she can be next.' Ekin's career has gone from strength to strength since she found fame on the series with the star being cast for Dancing On Ice, The Traitors US, and Celebrity Big Brother. Former Islanders who are set to join Ekin-Su in the villa according to a leaked line-up include Olivia Hawkins, Curtis Pritchard, India Reynold and Luca Bish. Gabby Allen, Marcel Sommerville, Kaz Crossley, Scott Thomas, Catherine Agbaje, Elma Pazar, Nas Majeed and Ronnie Vint are also said to be taking part. Host Maya Jama, 30, is back as she prepares to welcome a new cohort of former singletons to the lavish South African villa in the hope of finding love. Last year's series saw Molly Smith and Tom Clare crowned winners and bagged the whopping 50,000 prize. Sam Thompson has paid a sweet tribute to his sister Louise in the wake of his split from girlfriend Zara McDermott. It was revealed earlier this month that the I'm A Celebrity winner, 32, and the former Love Island star, 28, have gone their separate ways after five years together, though neither have publicly commented on the break-up. However, Sam has continued to be active on social media amid his heartbreak and in his latest post, shared a touching message for his sister while also humorously highlighting their sibling rivalry. In a funny reel shared to Instagram on Monday, Sam is seen walking into Louise's room with a candle, before proceeded to blow it out using his nostril. The TV star then farts before cheekily giving her middle finger and then strutting out the room. But while Sam no doubt annoyed his sister, he still managed to pen a sweet note to her, perhaps alluding to the support she's given amid his relationship woes. Sam Thompson has paid a sweet tribute to his sister Louise in the wake of his split from girlfriend Zara McDermott Sam has continued to be active on social media amid his heartbreak and in his latest post, shared a touching message for his sister while also humorously highlighting their sibling rivalry It was revealed earlier this month that the I'm A Celebrity winner, 32, and the former Love Island star, 28, have gone their separate ways after five years together He wrote: 'So lucky to have you as my neighbour, love you mate'. But while Louise no doubt appreciated his heartfelt words, she couldn't help but make a jibe at her brother over his antics, informing his candle was now in the bin after she'd used it. She also later commented her surprise at seeing her son Leo in the background while she and Sam filmed their reel. It comes after Sam opened up about his 'hardest' and super stressful' year amid his break-up with Zara. In his latest Staying Relevant podcast with pal Pete Wicks, Sam hinted that 2024 was rather difficult as he looked back on the past 12 months. The episode heard the pals make plans for 2025, with Sam gushing about his plans to expand their podcast and break more world records. But when Pete asked him to reflect on 2024, Sam appeared to hint at the tough times as he responded: 'This year has probably been the best year of my life so far, I would say. Hardest year, because there's been a lot going on, it's been super stressful.' However, he then remarked how the year had been a blessing amid the career opportunities as he added: 'But the year that I've been the most grateful for my an absolute mile.' In a funny reel shared to Instagram on Monday, Sam is seen walking into Louise's room with a candle, before proceeded to blow it out using his nostril He then cheekily gives her middle finger before strutting out the room But while Sam no doubt annoyed his sister, he still managed to pen a sweet note to her, perhaps alluding to the support she's given amid his relationship woes But while Louise no doubt appreciated his heartfelt words, she couldn't help but make a jibe at her brother over his antics, informing his candle was now in the bin after she'd used it The star went on to list the things he'd been grateful for amid the past year as he mentioned his This Morning stint, his radio show and his podcast, however he failed to mention his former girlfriend of five years. Continuing to reflect on 2024 while omitting Zara's involvement, Sam added: 'On a career note, it's been the best year ever, so so incredible... 'In terms of life, in a slightly more sombre thing, my sister's health... she's got better which is great, I'm very very grateful for that. In terms of family and stuff, everything's good, everyone's healthy and happy which is really nice. 'My nephew's great, we've got a nice little bond. He's getting to the age of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, which is where I come in!' He also added that his best pal's Strictly Come Dancing appearance had been a highlight. Meanwhile Zara revealed she was returning to work for the first time since confirming her separation. Sharing a photo of herself alongside a handheld camera and boom, she wrote: 'First day back at work, doing what I love & am so grateful for.' It comes after Sam opened up about his 'hardest' and super stressful' year amid his break-up with Zara In his latest Staying Relevant podcast with pal Pete Wicks, Sam hinted that 2024 was rather difficult amid the break-up as he looked back on the past 12 months The star went on to list the things he'd been grateful for amid the past year as he mentioned his This Morning stint, his radio show and his podcast, however he failed to mention his former girlfriend of five years Meanwhile Zara revealed she was returning to work for the first time since their split was confirmed It comes as it's been reported that Sam and Zara split weeks ago and has already moved out of the couple's London home. The Sun has revealed Zara has also jetted off on a secret trip to Paris for New Year's as she takes some time to herself post break up. A source told the publication: 'It's been a tough time for Zara. The trip to Paris just helped her get away from it all. 'Zara just wants to try to focus on work and get herself together. They split some time before it officially emerged and she is now living apart from him.' MailOnline have contacted Zara and Sam's representatives for comment. It comes after fans were left convinced they know the real reason why the couple split after not spending Christmas together. The pair have gone their separate ways just one month after Sam shared a gushing post about his 'soul mate' Zara on her birthday. In the Instagram post, the radio presenter described Zara as his 'best friend' who is 'stuck with him forever'. It comes as it's been reported that Sam and Zara split weeks ago and has already moved out of the couple's London home Zara has also jetted off on a secret trip to Paris for New Year's as she takes some time to herself post break up He penned: 'My best friend, and soul mate.some would say my person. I'm afraid you're stuck with me forever. happy birthday. I love you so much, and wow have I missed you over the past month! Here's to another amazing year with you'. However, fans have now taken to the comments to say it was his lack of action that has prompted the pair to split as they said Sam should have asked Zara to marry him. They wrote: 'In the words of Beyonce. If you like it then you should put a ring on it'; Propose, no time like the present; Mate, buy her a ring FFS; 'If she is going to be with you forever, why not put a ring on it. What are you waiting for; Get a ring on that finger'. Another questioned: 'How can going to be together two weeks ago to splitting up days later...this is rather extreme!!' Lawyers for actress Blake Lively are condemning actor/director Justin Baldoni for launching even 'more attacks' against his client. Lively, 37, starred in It Ends With Us opposite Baldoni, 40, who also directed the film, which was released in theaters this past August and is currently streaming on Netflix. After months of rumors, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging Baldoni had improvised unwanted kissing scenes and created a hostile work environment through sexual harassment and more. Just a day later, The New York Times published an article revealing Baldoni hired a crisis PR team to 'bury' Lively and destroy her credibility, with Lively then suing Baldoni and his Wayfarer Studios company later that day. Baldoni responded by filing a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times for their report that he claimed pushed an, 'unverified and self-serving narrative.' Now Lively's legal team insists to People that Lively's, 'serious claims of sexual harassment and retaliation' are in fact, 'backed by concrete facts.' Lawyers for actress Blake Lively are condemning actor/director Justin Baldoni for launching even 'more attacks' against his client Just a day later, The New York Times published an article revealing Baldoni hired a crisis PR team to 'bury' Lively and destroy her credibility, with Lively then suing Baldoni and his Wayfarer Studios company later that day 'This is not a feud arising from "creative differences" or a "he said/she said" situation,' Lively's lawyers' statement began. 'As alleged in Ms. Livelys complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set,' the attorneys added. 'And their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing,' they continued. 'Sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry,' the lawyers added while breaking down some 'classic tactics' employed by abusers. 'A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to "blame the victim" by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied,' the statement continued. 'Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim. These concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct,' they said. 'Most importantly, media statements are not a defense to Ms. Livelys legal claims. We will continue to prosecute her claims in federal court, where the rule of law determines who prevails, not hyperbole and threats,' the statement concluded. Lively claimed in her lawsuit that the smear campaign employed by Baldoni employed caused her to suffer 'financial harms' which 'continue to the present'. 'This is not a feud arising from "creative differences" or a "he said/she said" situation,' Lively's lawyers' statement began 'As alleged in Ms. Livelys complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set,' the attorneys added Lively claimed in her lawsuit that the smear campaign employed by Baldoni employed c aused her to suffer 'financial harms' which 'continue to the present' She states that her haircare brand, Blake Brown, and her two drinks ranges, Betty Buzz and Betty Booze, both suffered huge losses in sales due to the backlash she received. The lawsuit states that Blake Brown sales plummeted by up to 78 per cent after the 'social manipulation campaign started'. It said: 'Based on internal sales projections, the sudden and unexpected negative media campaign launched against Ms. Lively depressed retail sales of Blake Brown products by 56-78 per cent.' The lawsuit added: 'This dramatic drop was completely at odds with the high satisfaction scores that Blake Brown products received in the significant consumer testing performed before launch or its initial success after launch'. Nicole Kidman oozed sophistication in a chic black suit as she stepped out for a special screening of her new erotic thriller Babygirl. 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. On Monday, Nicole attended a special screening for the film at The Crescent Theater in Beverley Hills. She looked effortlessly chic for the occasion as she donned a sleek black suit, complete with a satin-trimmed detailing. Nicole paired the ensemble with black stilettos and a collection of silver rings, and her long blonde locks were left down in natural waves. She posed alongside a number of actors at the screening, including Shaun Toub, Jodie Turner-Smith and Kathryn Newton. Nicole Kidman oozed sophistication in a chic black suit as she stepped out for a special screening of her new erotic thriller Babygirl in LA on Monday On Monday, Nicole attended a special screening for the film at The Crescent Theater in Beverley Hills Nicole's age-gap romance Babygirl has been highly-talked-about thanks to a string of raunchy sex scenes. 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. 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. Nicole has addressed the recurring use of milk in the film's sex scenes and told how it is symbolic of the affair itself. She looked effortlessly chic for the occasion as she donned a sleek black suit Nicole's suit was adorned with black satin detailing and she posed in front of the movie's poster She posed alongside a number of actors at the screening, including Iron Man star Shaun Toub Nicole was seen smiling with British star Jodie Turner-Smith at the screening She also cosied up to Kathryn Newton as she made her rounds on the night '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. 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 age-gap romance Babygirl has been highly-talked-about thanks to a string of raunchy sex scenes 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 '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.' 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. Demi Moore has proved she is anything but just a 'popcorn actress' after the star won her first Golden Globe for her critically-acclaimed performance in the body horror film The Substance on Sunday night. The actress, 62, seemed to have an incredible comeback year in 2024, however the Ghost star has always been a Hollywood icon. Kim Kardashian was said to have broken the internet when she posed nude in her unforgettable Paper Mag cover in 2014. However it is thought that if Demi had released her iconic 1991 Vanity Fair cover in the time of the world wide web she would have got their first. The star made magazine history in 1991 when she posed naked on the front of the magazine cover while pregnant with her second daughter Scout. The image would inspire countless imitators and helped to destigmatize pregnant bodies. Demi Moore's famous 1991 nude Vanity Fair cover would have broken the internet as we take a look back at how the star has always paved the way as a Hollywood icon The actress proved she is anything but just a 'popcorn actress' after the star won her first Golden Globe for her critically-acclaimed performance in The Substance on Sunday Speaking about posing nude for the shoot in an interview with Howard Stern in 2019 she explained: 'At one point at the end of the shoot we were doing it and I sad "Wouldn't it be amazing if they used this for the cover." 'And then a week later they called and asked and I was just trying to do the shoot reflective of how I felt. 'You know at the time women were only in Peter Pan collars, you could celebrate finding out you were pregnant and you could celebrate when you had the child but in the in between culturally it was like we had to pretend we had never had sex that it's like this immaculate conception.' Since the cover A-listers are no longer shy in showing off their pregnancy bumps, with celebrities including Rihanna, Sienna Miller and Cardi B. Demi's career was in a massive upswing a the time of her cover shoot. After appearing in the hit supernatural romance Ghost in 1990, she'd go on to appear in A Few Good Men (1992), Disclosure (1994) and The Hunchback Of Notre Dame (1996). She made a repeat appearance a year later in 1992 for her Vanity Fair Birthday Suit cover, in which she appeared totally nude but decorated with a body paint suit. In 2020 Demi was also top of the guest list as she marked the momentous cover at the Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling exhibit at the Annenberg Space For Photography. Demi became a global star after starring in Ghost, with her androgynous look - from the dungarees to the short hairstyle - helping to define 1990s style. Kim Kardashian was said to have broken the internet when she posed nude in her unforgettable Paper Mag cover in 2014, but perhaps Demi would have got their first Demi became a global star after starring in Ghost, with her androgynous look - from the dungarees to the short hairstyle - helping to define 1990s style (pictured with Patrick Swayze) Demi returned to the Met Gala last May following a five-year hiatus - putting on an attention-grabbing display She also proved her acting chops in meatier 1990s films such as blockbuster courtroom drama A Few Good Men opposite Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson. Aside from her acting, Demi has also formed two Hollywood power couples, first in the 1980s with Die Hard star Bruce Willis, the father of her three daughters, and then with Ashton Kutcher, the latter union ending acrimoniously in 2013. Meanwhile Demi has been enjoying something of a comeback as a fashion darling since her radiant appearances at Cannes Film Festival last May. Marking her first appearance on the red carpet since 1997, Demi returned to the prestigious festival before later attending the Met Gala soon after following a five-year hiatus - putting on an attention-grabbing display. The Ghost star made a bold statement as she wowed in a sculpted and dramatic black dress designed by Harris Reed that clung to her figure and also contained pink peony details that were embroidered onto the velvet material. Her inclusion at the star-studded event in May resulted in some fans taking to X, formerly Twitter, to declare: 'We are in the Demi Moore renaissance,' and praise the actress' return to the prestigious occasion. On Sunday Demi looked ageless as she walked the glamorous red carpet ahead of the Golden Globes and was emotional as she clutched the statue in her hand after winning Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy. The star revealed in her teary acceptance speech that she was called a 'popcorn actress' 30 years ago - a comment she said 'corroded' her. On Sunday Demi looked ageless as she walked the glamorous red carpet as she clutched the statue in her hand after winning Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy The Substance was released in theaters last year in September 2024, and the cast also included Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid, Hugo Diego Garcia and Oscar Lesage She said on stage: '30 years ago, I had a producer tell me that I was a popcorn actress. 'At that time I made that mean that this wasn't something that I was allowed to have, that I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldn't 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, maybe I've done what I was supposed to do.' It was at that 'low point,' Demi said, that she received the script for The Substance which she called 'magical, bold, courageous, out of the box [and] absolutely bonkers.' 'The universe told me that you're not done,' she added. The Goldens Globes celebrates the great and good of the film and TV industry - with the most recognised actors going home with a prestigious gong. However, it is not just a Globe that a selected few get to leave with, everyone at the ceremony also receives an incredible array of gifts. This year the total sum of gifts tips an eye-watering $1million, which is double the amount that it was worth at last year's ceremony. It's a beachside villa in Turks and Caicos with a $507,492 price tag that has added to the bag's incredible value this year. The figure is what all of the items available add up to in total, however not every guest leaves with every item and some are only on offer to one recipient. The luxury continued throughout the ceremony as stars dined on an exclusive $200-per head Nobu menu and enjoyed glasses of Moet champagne. The Goldens Globes celebrates the great and good of the film and TV industry - with the most recognised actors going home with a prestigious gong It's a beachside villa in Turks and Caicos with a $507,492 price tag that has added to the bag's incredible value this year Following the ceremony, which took place on Sunday January 5, A-listers left with a specially curated bag of pricey goodies. This year's collection of party favours included luxury beauty products, designer fashion items, lavish travel packages and experiences. Guests are given a book with a directory of each gift, its value, and how many are available. Some presents will be received by all, and others are limited. However, each nominee is guaranteed to go home with nine gifts, valued up to $119,198 a piece. Luke Bahrenburg, luxury magazine Robb Report's president and Penske Media Corporation's Head of Luxury Sales, said this week: 'This years collection embodies the pinnacle of luxury, offering recipients an extraordinary journey through bespoke craftsmanship, exclusive experiences, and iconic brands that define excellence.' He added: 'From meticulously curated travel adventures to rare, indulgent treasures, every detail reflects our commitment to celebrating the best in class.' Food and Beverage gifts Liber Pater Wine tasting and dinner experience in Bordeaux, France ($272,000, available to one participant), Liber Pater trio of ultra rare 2015, 2018, and 2019 vintages ($34,8000, available to one participant) A rare bottle of Komos XO tequila ($2,000, available to 10 participants) from Casa Komos Brands Group, Reposado Rosa, Anejo Cristalino, Anejo Reserva, and Extra Anejo ($950, available to 15 participants) from Casa Komos Brands Group Liber Pater trio of ultra rare 2015, 2018, and 2019 vintages ($34,8000, available to one participant) A sustainability-minded trip to the Komos Foundation in Tequila, Mexico ($5,500, available to one participant) fom Casa Komos Brands Group, A bottle of The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whisky and/or Isle of Harris Gin ($90 and $150, available to all 100 participants) from Isle of Harris Distillery A humidor made for travel ($440, available to 20 participants) from Davidoff Cigars Travel and Experiences Three-night stay in a 6-bedroom Caribbean estate villa ($35,000, available to one participant) at Round Hill Hotel and Villas A private flight and stay in Finland to see the Northern Lights ($48,000, available to one recipient) via ACX Access and Helsinki Citycopter A three-night stay in a beachside villa in Turks and Caicos ($507,492, available to nine recipients) at The Reserve at Grace Bay by Beach Enclave, A five-day luxury yacht charter throughout the Coral Triangle in Indonesia ($60,000, available to all 100 participants) via Celestia Phinisi Yacht A one-night stay in a Beverly Hills suite ($1,500, available to all 100 participants) at LErmitage Beverly Hills A five-night stay in a Grand Cayman resort at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman The trip costs $55,000 and is available to all 100 participants A three-night stay in the Bali Jungle ($5,800, available to three participants) at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve A five-night stay in a Grand Cayman resort ($55,000, available to all 100 participants) at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman A five-night stay and wellness experience in the Maldives ($33,800, available to 50 participants) at JOALI BEING A two-night stay and whisky experience in Tasmania, Australia ($4,935, available to five participants) at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart Beauty, Apparel, and Wellness The Fluid Cream ($209, available to all 100 participants) from EAU DOMAINE A choice of decadent organic-linen or cotton sateen sheets ($572 $1,392, available to all 100 participants) from Coyuchi A cutting-edge LED Light Therapy Face Mask Series 2 ($469, available to all 100 participants) from CurrentBody A non-surgical Stemcell Facelift ($40,000, available to one participant) performed by Dr. Simon Ourian Vitamin C Serum and COQ10 ($98, available to all 100 participants) from EXPONENT The Fluid Cream ($209, available to all 100 participants) from EAU DOMAINE A skin-care essentials kit ($290, available to all 100 participants) from FEMMUE A personalized, dance-focused workout and wellness experience ($15,000, available to 25 participants) from FORWARD__Space Pure Gold Radiance Concentrate serum ($935, available to 40 participants) from La Prairie A custom-designed suit handcrafted in Italy ($11,400, available to three participants) from NB44 A NordicTrack Ultra 1 treadmill ($15,000, available to four participants) from NordicTrack A fragrance from Perfumehead's LA Collection ($615, available to 50 participants) A Maybourne Beverly Hills Oxygen Facial ($1,400, available to 10 participants) Guaranteed take home gifts A bottle of The Hearach Single Malt Scotch Whisky and/or Isle of Harris Gin ($90/$150) A five-day luxury yacht charter throughout the Coral Triangle in Indonesia ($60,000) A one-night stay in a Beverly Hills suite ($1,500) A five-night stay in a Grand Cayman resort ($55,000) The Fluid Cream ($209) A choice of Coyuchi organic-linen or cotton sateen sheets ($572 $1,392) A CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask Series 2 ($469) EXPONENT Vitamin C Serum and COQ10 ($98) A skin-care essentials kit from FEMMUE ($290) Laura Byrne hit the beach with her family this weekend to soak up the sun. The radio host and her husband Matty Johnson took their two young daughters for a swim at Bondi Beach on Sunday. The 38-year-old stripped down to a black bikini that put her trim and toned figure on display. She kept partially covered up with a short multicoloured sarong and carried a bodyboard up over her head. The brunette added a pair of sunglasses and a bucket hat to her beach look while pulling her hair back and skipping the makeup. Laura had arrived at the beach alongside her family in wide-legged pink trousers and a light black shirt. Laura Byrne (pictured) hit the beach with her family this weekend to soak up the sun The 38-year-old stripped down to a black bikini that put her trim and toned figure on display The radio host and her husband, Matty Johnson, took their two young daughters for a swim at Bondi Beach on Sunday. All pictured She also had on a pair of black and white sandals and held her daughter's hand as she made her way down to the sand. Matty, 37, meanwhile looked summery in a green shirt and white shorts matched with a bucket hat in the same colour. The former reality star completed the casual look with a pair of sunglasses and white canvas trainers. The couple were accompanied by daughters Marlie-Mae, five, and Lola, three. It comes after Matty was left looking a little worse for wear this festive season. The Bachelor star took to social media with a weepy selfie the night before Christmas. Matty's right eye was red and swollen and he sported a five-o-clock shadow in the relatable post. 'The antibiotics are working...I think,' the father-of-two wrote as he posed with a half-hearted thumbs up. Laura kept partially covered up with a short multicoloured sarong and carried a bodyboard up over her head The brunette added a pair of sunglasses and a bucket hat to her beach look Laura had arrived at the beach alongside her family in wide-legged pink trousers and a light black shirt Matty and his wife Laura have been busy renovating a 'rundown' coastal property which they purchased in August. The reality TV lovebirds put tools down for the holidays, though as Matty hit the beach with his two daughters for an ocean dip and then Laura revved up the party at North Bondi RSL. The podcaster let her hair down as she hit the pub stage to dance in a summery white linen pant and bandeau top set. Laura split the nation with her highly controversial stance on what the best Christmas chocolate is late last year. Laura took to Instagram to crown the Ferrero Rocher, as she filmed a beautifully wrapped gift box. Inside the mixed collection of the brand's biggest hits is the classic hazelnut version, the white chocolate and coconut Raffaello and the dark choc Rondnoir. 'The white Raffaello is the best,' the radio star insisted in her video, adding that the hazelnut is 'delicious' but the dark chocolate version 'kind of sucks'. Laura then invited her followers to vote on which the best of the three is, with the votes divided. Laura pulled her hair back and skipped the makeup for the outing She also had on a pair of black and white sandals The star held her daughter's hand as she made her way down to the sand The Ferrero Rocher gift box is a Christmas staple and is usually on sale around Christmas time at popular supermarkets. As of late Monday evening, the votes sat at 54 per cent preferring the classic milk hazelnut, 38 per cent loving the white and only 9 per cent picking the dark. Matty and Laura are enjoying a well deserved break after hitting a huge roadblock in their extension renovation of their $2.2million beach house. The reality TV couple have gone with a throwback 1970s style for the space, with mid-century stained wood cabinets matching the light brown tiles of the floor. But their extensive remodel has faced many issues since they started overhauling the home from termites to wood rot and mould. Laura posted a behind-the-scenes video showing how they had stripped the rundown property to its bare bones and revealed the shocking discoveries they found. 'There was no way of really knowing what this Reno had in store for us, or how comprehensive the rebuild was going to have to be until we started pulling off walls and pulling up the carpet,' she shared. 'We've been met with termites, white ants, wood rot, mould and more than a couple of snakes along the way - but finally she is taking shape and we are slowly seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.' Matty, 37, meanwhile looked summery in a green shirt and white shorts matched with a bucket hat in the same colour The former reality star completed the casual look with a pair of sunglasses and white canvas trainers The couple were accompanied by daughters Marlie-Mae, five, and Lola, three Dubbing the house the Chante-Mer - which means 'Sing the Sea' in French - Laura also told how construction had to stop for a week so exterminators could rid the site of pests. 'We had to replace all of the walls and internal structures throughout the kitchen,' she continued. Despite the challenges, Laura remained positive and told how they plan to transform the neglected beach house into a luxury three-bedroom, two-bathroom home. Located on a clifftop in Ulladulla on the far south coast of NSW 226kms from Sydney, the old two-storey dwelling offers amazing water views. The home last changed hands in 1984 for a mere $62,500 and Laura and Matty splashed out $2.19million on buying it in August. The location holds special meaning for the happy couple, who tied the knot in 2022 at Cupitts Estate Winery, just down the road from their new holiday home. The home is set on 746 sqm overlooking Racecourse Beach and previously belonged to United Nations simultaneous conference translator Valerie Barnes, who died in 2021 aged 94. She never fails to look sensational. And Hailey Bieber looked effortlessly chic as she left dinner at Nobu with pals in Malibu on Monday night. The model, 28, showed off her perfect sense of style in a long black coat layered over a plunging black jumpsuit. Hailey, who gave birth to her first child Jack Blues in August, added a small black bag to her look and a pair of small sunglasses. She accessorised with silver jewellery and pulled her brunette locks into her signature up-do. The beauty appeared in high spirits as she said goodbye to her friends before heading home. Hailey Bieber looked effortlessly chic as she left dinner at Nobu with pals in Malibu on Monday night The model, 28, showed off her perfect sense of style in a long black coat layered over a plunging black jumpsuit It comes just days after husband Justin shared a sweet kiss with his wife in a selfie uploaded to Instagram on Saturday. The post came amid fan-driven speculation that the couple are headed for divorce, with even Hailey recently responding to the wild rumours herself. In the new photo, Justin, 30, posed behind Hailey while gently planting his lips on her neck as he stared at the camera. Meanwhile, the Rhode skincare founder smiled and glanced lovingly at Justin while they watched the sunset near their Los Angeles home. The selfie racked up countless comments praising the couple for putting their love in display. The couple's sweet selfie comes after Justin paid tribute to his wife of six years as he marveled at her incredible postpartum body. Justin wrote, 'Um. Goin anywhere with u bb. Happy new year,' above photos of the model wearing a skimpy bikini as her NYE outfit. The couple said 'I do' back in 2018 and have since been inseparable. The iconic duo became first-time parents last year, welcoming their son Jack Blues Bieber in August. It comes just days after husband Justin shared a sweet kiss with his wife in a selfie uploaded to Instagram on Saturday Justin also paid tribute to his wife of six years as he marveled at her incredible postpartum body The couple became first-time parents last year, welcoming their son Jack Blues Bieber in August; Jack and Hailey seen December 2024 Just last week, a source close to the Purpose hitmaker told Page Six that the couple are in no rush to have more children. The five-foot-eight looker and the Canadian sensation who recently ventured to Costa Rica have 'discussed having more kids, but for right now, theyre happy with where things are at.' The insider added that Hailey felt 'incredibly blessed' to be 'celebrating her first Christmas as a mom.' 'When Justin asked Hailey what she wanted for Christmas this year, she really couldnt think of anything because she has everything she could ever want,' they source said. Justin and Hailey are reportedly 'still adjusting to life as parents of a newborn' and feel that 'every day is a learning experience.' 'They couldnt be happier,' they shared. 'Hailey has seen a whole different side to Justin since becoming a father and shes more in love with him than ever.' Hailey recently revealed that she designed a custom ring adorned with her birthstone, a topaz, and her newborn son Jack's stone, a peridot. She shared a glimpse of the ring via her Instagram Story which sees the teardrop topaz angled to lean against the square-cut peridot gem. Justin and Hailey said 'I do' back in 2018 and have since been inseparable; the couple seen May 2024 The star welcomed Jack in late August though she never confirmed the baby's exact date of birth. And she has managed to stick to her usual beauty routine since becoming a mother. The New York native has so far managed to maintain the same skincare regimes that she carried out before and during her pregnancy because it all fits 'perfectly' into her new life as a mother. She told Glamour UK: 'Honestly, I do feel like my beauty routine is fairly the same as it was my whole pregnancy and even before. 'Right now, my routine in the morning is basically just hydration, a little vitamin C if I remember to do it and SPF, and then it's like I brush up my eyebrows and we're out.' 'That was kind of how I did things before and it fits perfectly into the way that life is now,' the New York native added. Just last week, a source close to the Purpose hitmaker told Page Six that the couple are in no rush to have more children; Justin and Hailey seen August 2023 But the entrepreneur has urged her fans to think about all parts of their body when it comes to skincare and found that a new 'mom hack' is always making sure that she carries her design of body butter with her amongst the baby's things to stop her own skin from drying out. She said: 'When you think about keeping the skin nourished and healthy as you are getting older, you do think about your neck, your chest, your hands, your body. 'My new mom hack is that I throw the mini Barrier Butter into my little changing bag that I have with me when I go anywhere. And then I have it for my hands. 'When you spray hand sanitizer I'm doing that every three seconds these days you get so dry,' Hailey said. Susanna Reid broke down in tears on Tuesday's episode of Good Morning Britain when a a bereaved mother revealed how her late son has saved 18 lives. Naomi Rees-Issitt joined the show as she fights to make defibrillators available in police cars after the death of her son Jamie. Jamie passed away after he suffered a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day in 2022 when he was just 18-years-old. He was left waiting 17 minutes for an ambulance and his friends couldn't get access to a defibrillator which was located one minute away but locked inside a school. The police who arrived on scene first also did not have a defibrillator inside their car which could have saved Jamie's life. Susanna said: 'Naomi, it's been such a tragic loss losing your child in such an unspeakable way. You have found a purpose. Jamie had signed up to the organ register, hadn't he?' Susanna Reid broke down in tears on Tuesday's episode of Good Morning Britain when a a bereaved mother revealed how her late son has saved 18 lives Naomi Rees-Issitt joined the show as she fights to make defibrillators available in police cars after the death of her son Jamie Naomi replied: 'The reason that we do what we do is because Jamie had signed the organ register three times in his short life. 'When he was 16, 17 and again just after his 18th birthday. And I was stood outside of Coventry hospital the morning after we lost Jamie and watched his lungs take off in a helicopter to go to Bristol. 'Jamie actually saved five lives including the life of a baby girl on the night that we lost him. He was meant to save lives. I knew from that second that that wasnt going to be the end of Jamies life, he was meant to save lives and since we launched Jamies Foundation, hes saved 13 more lives with his defibrillators, and I know that he will go on and save hundreds of lives. 'For us, he was never going to be just that lad that died on New Years, he was always going to be so much more. 'In life he was amazing, and even now, hes saving lives everyday and taking the panic out of situations for people through his Foundation.' Breaking down in tears after Naomi revealed how many lives Jamie had saved, Susanna brought her in for a hug and said: 'Well done for what youve done. I think you're amazing.' Naomi launched the OurJay Foundation and has now installed 129 accessible defibrillators and have a further 15 waiting to be installed across Warwickshire. Jamie passed away after he suffered a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day in 2022 when he was just 18-years-old Susanna said: 'Naomi, it's been such a tragic loss losing your child in such an unspeakable way. You have found a purpose. Jamie had signed up to the organ register, hadn't he?' Naomi explained: 'Jamie actually saved five lives including the life of a baby girl on the night that we lost him... hes saved 13 more lives with his defibrillators' After suffering a cardiac arrest on New Year's Day Jamie's heart was restarted but he passed away five days later at University Hospital in Coventry. Naomi explained: 'Had that defibrillator had been there at 10, 11, 12 minutes, the oxygen starvation wouldn't have been as severe and there's every chance he could have been here today if we had just had that access to it.' In a statement at the time, West Midlands Ambulance Service said: 'We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of Jamie Rees and apologise for the delay in responding on New Years Day. 'New Year's Day was the busiest the trust has ever experienced, nearly a quarter busier than the previous busiest New Years Day.' Emma Heming Willis has congratulated Demi Moore after the star won her first Golden Globe Award on Sunday night. The movie star, 62, received the gong for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, for her performance in The Substance. And Emma - who is married to Demi's ex husband Bruce Willis, took to social media to offer her congratulations to the Hollywood icon. Emma, 46, who has been married to Bruce since 2009, shared a snap of Demi walking in her dress from behind as she penned: 'We're screaming over here!!! Congratulations @demimoore!!!!!' Demi has three daughters with Bruce - Rumer, 36, Scout, 33, and Tallulah, 30 - and they also offered their congratulations to the actress. Her daughters were also filmed reacting to their mother garnering her first major acting award since starting her career in the 1980s. Bruce Willis' wife Emma has congratulated Demi Moore in sweet tribute after the star won her first ever major gong at the Golden Globes for The Substance on Sunday night The movie star, 62, received the gong for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, for her performance in the body horror film Bruce married actress Demi in 1987 but the pair separated in 2000. As Demi found love with younger actor Ashton Kutcher (who she split from 2011), Bruce later fell for English model and actress Emma, who is almost 25 years his junior. However Bruce, Demi and Emma remained friends for the sake of their children, with the Die Hard star previously saying 'We've become like a tribe,' after Demi and Ashton attended his Turks and Caicos wedding to Emma. Bruce has also noted that people are often baffled by his friendship with Demi as he explained: 'It's generated a lot of interest because everyone can understand resentment and envy in the breakup of a marriage, but they don't understand how I can get along with my ex like that. 'Demi and I made a choice to put the kids first, and we're really lucky that it turns out we all have fun together.' Demi and Ashton ended up splitting in 2011, and they finalised their divorce two years later. Meanwhile, Bruce and Emma went on to welcome their daughter Mabel in 2012. Two years later, they had Evelyn. Winning her first Golden Globe on Sunday, Demi stepped onto the stage to great applause from the celebrity guests and admitted, '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.' In 2009, Bruce married Emma (left), an English model and actress, on the Turks and Caicos islands, but he continued to remain close with Demi (right) And Emma - who is married to Demi's ex husband Bruce Willis , took to social media to offer her congratulations to the Hollywood icon Her daughters Rumer, 36, Scout, 33, and Tallulah, 30, were also filmed reacting to their mother garnering her first major acting award since starting her career in the 1980s In a world full of fractured relationships and bitter divorces, Bruce Willis' blended familial bliss is somewhat of an enigma (Pictured are the blended family in March 2023) After stepping onto the stage, Moore was greeted by applause from the celebrity guests and admitted, 'Wow, I really wasn't expecting that' 'I'm just so humbled and so grateful,' she added before recalling how a producer had once called her a 'popcorn actress' in the past. Moore said that at the time, she felt 'this wasn't something that I was allowed to have, that I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldn't be acknowledged.' 'And 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, maybe I've done what I was supposed to do.' She recalled, '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 you're not done.' Demi then gave a special shout out to the director, Coralie Fargeat, 'for trusting me, to step in and play this woman.' She also thanked her co-star, Margaret Qualley, for 'looking out for me' as well as 'all the people who stood by me, especially the people who believed in me when I haven't believed in myself.' Towards the end of her touching speech, the Ghost actress added, 'I'll just leave you with one thing.' 'That I think this movie is imparting is in those moments when we don't think we're smart enough or pretty enough or skinny enough or successful enough, or basically just not enough.' '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,' she stated She also thanked her co-star, Margaret Qualley, for 'looking out for me' as well as 'all the people who stood by me, especially the people who believed in me when I haven't believed in myself' A joint post was soon uploaded to Instagram that captured the moment her daughters reacted to their mother's Golden Globe win The second Demi's name was read, everyone threw their arms into the air and jumped to their feet. Loud cheers and screams echoed around the room during the exciting moment '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."' 'And so today,' Moore continued, '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. Thank you so much.' A joint post was soon uploaded to Instagram that captured the moment her daughters reacted to their mother's Golden Globe win. The clip was shared by Moore's friends, Amanda De Cadenet and Eric Buterbaugh, as well as her three daughters - whom she shares with ex Bruce Willis. Rumer, Scout and Tallulah could be seen sitting on the floor of a spacious living room along with other close family friends while looking at a TV. The group remained quiet as they awaited for the presenters on stage to announce the winner of Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. The second Demi's name was read, everyone threw their arms into the air and jumped to their feet. Loud cheers and screams echoed around the room during the exciting moment. Her daughters quickly sat back down on the floor to begin listening to Moore's acceptance speech. In the comment section of the joint post, Scout penned, 'SHE DID IT,' followed by crying face emojis. Scout also added, 'this is a huge win for EVERYONE,' while Tallulah shared, 'I love her so f***ing much, I have no words' Demi has been nominated for a total of four Golden Globes throughout her career thus far, winning her first on Sunday. She has also garnered Emmy and SAG Award nods over the years The movie was nominated for an additional four Golden Globes, such as Best Supporting Actress for Qualley Rumer wrote, 'GO MAMA GO. So so proud of you. Omg I love you so much. So well deserved.' Scout also added, 'this is a huge win for EVERYONE,' while Tallulah shared, 'I love her so f***ing much, I have no words.' Demi has been nominated for a total of four Golden Globes throughout her career thus far, winning her first on Sunday. She has also garnered Emmy and SAG Award nods over the years. The Substance was released in theaters last year in September 2024, and the cast also included Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid, Hugo Diego Garcia and Oscar Lesage. The premise of the movie is: 'A fading celebrity takes a black-market drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself,' per IMDB. The movie was nominated for an additional four Golden Globes, such as Best Supporting Actress for Qualley. Before taking on her role in The Substance, Demi had thought her Hollywood career was 'complete' She added, 'And I thought, "You know what? Maybe my time doing this is complete. Maybe I've done everything I was supposed to do." Two weeks later, the script for The Substance came across my desk' Before taking on her role in The Substance, Demi had thought her Hollywood career was 'complete.' She touched on the topic while accepting the Maria Manetti Shrem Award for Acting during the SFFILM Awards in San Francisco in December. The star expressed, 'I've had a very long career, but I haven't really ever been part of the conversations that allowed me to be part of [awards shows] and to really receive the love and celebration of my work. I'm really just so humbled.' 'At the beginning of 2022, I had a moment where I was at an event and I felt I didn't belong. I didn't know why I was there. I wanted to be invisible and I couldn't figure out how to get out.' Moore took to the stage once again during the special night alongside Qualley as they presented the award for Best Actor in a Television Series - Drama, which went to Hiroyuki Sanada She added, 'And I thought, "You know what? Maybe my time doing this is complete. Maybe I've done everything I was supposed to do." Two weeks later, the script for The Substance came across my desk.' Demi admitted she had been 'almost ready to step away' but told the crowd that she was grateful she chose not to. Moore took to the stage once again during the special night on Sunday alongside Qualley as they presented the award for Best Actor in a Television Series - Drama, which went to Hiroyuki Sanada. And inside one of the ballrooms inside the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel, Margaret and Demi held big smiles on their faces for a memorable snap together. Curtis Pritchard's widely-panned cameo on Hollyoaks with his brother AJ has re-emerged after the ballroom dancer-turned-reality star's return to Love Island: All Stars was announced on Tuesday. The series five star, 28, is among those confirmed to be heading to the South Africa villa next week when Love Island: All Stars returns to screens. In 2021, he and his brother played twins Marco and Jacob in Hollyoaks; but their scenes soon went viral due to their 'wooden' acting. In particular, Curtis's delivery of the line, 'How's Trish?', was mocked by viewers unsure whether the brothers were plotting to murder long-time character Trish Minniver or throw her a surprise party. Other soap stars - such as former EastEnders regular Michael Greco and Hollyoaks' own Parry Glasspool - hit out at the Pritchards and slammed casting directors for hiring them, when there were trained actors looking for roles. Gerard McCarthy, 43 who is best known for playing Hollyoaks' Kris Fisher for four years penned: 'The next time a producer/casting director says the words "but they have a big social media following". Just point them in the direction of this absolute car crash!' Curtis Pritchard's 2021 cameo on Hollyoaks with his brother AJ has re-emerged after the ballroom dancer-turned-reality star's return to Love Island was announced on Tuesday The series five star, 28, is among those confirmed to be heading to the South Africa villa next week when Love Island: All Stars returns to screens Michael responded: 'I think people can watch this and learn so much from it. How "not" to act. Shocking.' It was announced in February 2021 that the brothers would be joining the Hollyoaks cast as twins who help open a dance school on the soap. Parry who played Harry Thompson in Hollyoaks took to social media to write: 'To be clear, I have no problem with people using reality TV to accelerate a career in which they've trained or shown interest in. 'But it's agonising to watch. The pain of knowing that anyone else landing a part on a successful soap takes training, previous credits, a load of castings and auditions before you are even considered for a role. 'In this day and age, it's probably easier to jet off to Majorca and go on Love Island than to be in with a chance of securing acting jobs. 'When young actors look on after countless rejections to see the part they went for has been snatches up by someone who "wants to be the kind of guy that makes everyone coffee in the morning", it's enough to make you want to give up.' AJ and Curtis later reacted to the backlash they faced for appearing in the Channel 4 soap. In a chat with OK! Magazine, Curtis, who was 25 at the time, claimed he wasn't aware of the slew of memes and clips circulating the internet branding their scenes 'painful to watch'. It was announced in February 2021 that the brothers would be joining the Hollyoaks cast as twins who help open a dance school on the soap AJ (pictured) and Curtis later reacted to the backlash they faced for appearing in the Channel 4 soap He said: 'Up to this moment I felt absolutely nothing about it because I hadn't realised anybody had said anything. We always get that, we always get different things and for me it's always about positivity. AJ added: 'I've learned to go for the positives and not the negatives. If someone's got constructive criticism, 100 per cent that's great, but if it's just negativity then it's not something I'm going to waste my energy and time on that.' Talking about originally being cast on the soap, AJ said: 'I can't believe we will be featuring on Hollyoaks, we have grown up with the show on TV and it's always been one of our favourite serial dramas. 'Our characters are fantastic, and we can't wait for everyone to see how we bring them to life.' Curtis added: 'I am so excited to be working with my brother AJ on a show we grew up watching! I am also excited to continue our journey together with Channel 4 & E4.' The dancer, who first appeared in the show back in 2019, is set to return for Love Island: All Stars, leaving his ex Maura Higgins 'worried' he might spill secrets about their past relationship. 'I feel like I'm in a different stage in my life,' Curtis explained. 'The idea of settling down is a serious idea in my life right now. I haven't found my true love that sounds so cheesy doesn't it.' 'So, I thought, let's give it another go. It was great fun last time; a lot of emotions. I feel excited to go back. I'm going to have a great fun time and hopefully leave with someone. It's exciting.' I'm A Celeb star Maura, 34, and the professional dancer, 28, first connected in the villa, where the pair ended up finishing in fourth place (pictured on the show) 'I feel like Im in a different stage in my life,' Curtis explained. 'The idea of settling down is a serious idea in my life right now. I havent found my true love' Curtis admitted there is one key moment from his last appearance on the show that 'follows me everywhere' - his infamous 'making coffee in the morning' blunder. He quipped that he will be taking some advice from his villa ex Amy Hart, admitting 'in hindsight, if I do find a girl this time, I will perhaps cuddle her in bed rather than make coffee so Amy taught me a lesson'. I'm A Celeb star Maura, 34, and the professional dancer, 28, first connected in the villa, where the pair ended up finishing in fourth place. Despite their initial spark, the romance fizzled out and they parted ways just eight months later amid rumours of infidelity on both sides - allegations they have both denied. While Maura recently made a splash on TV with her stint in the jungle - where she spoke candidly about dating TOWIE star Pete Wicks, Curtis is also set for his own comeback to the spotlight. A source told The Sun: 'Curtis signing for All Stars is more than awkward for Maura just as she's fallen for Pete and they've finally gone public with their love. 'Her break-up with Curtis wasn't the best and Maura always worried he'd be the ex that could blab. It's also less than ideal when she's hoping to build on her I'm A Celebrity profile and advance her career. It comes after Maura discussed her experience on Love Island on Paul C Brunson's We Need To Talk podcast. Former EastEnders star Michael Greco, who is best known for portraying Beppe DiMarco on the BBC soap between 1998 and 2002, branded their performance 'shocking' Michael was replying to former Hollyoaks star Gerard McCarthy (pictured in 2015), 40, who criticised non-actors being hired based on their 'social media following' Speaking about her ex Curtis, she described him as a 'why not' man, explaining she only dated him due to there being limited options in the villa. She said: 'When you're locked in a house, I say locked but you're in a house and you're in there for X amount of time. You're going to start liking people that you wouldn't normally like. 'Not to be mean but you are, you're in there. I'm pretty sure it would probably be the same on Big Brother. You're locked in a house; you're not seeing any other men. You're going to be like 'why not'. AJ, meanwhile, shot to fame as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, which he left in 2020, and appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! David 'Kochie' Koch has unveiled a truly shocking new look - but all is not what it seems. The former Sunrise host, 68, appears in a new advertisement for Australian Lamb ahead of Australia Day. In a clip from the ad Koch is seen sporting giant muscles and ripped arms while posing at the beach. He is busy weightlifting on the sand while an onlooker walks by and says, 'Looking good Kochie'. However it's quickly clear there is something wrong with the host - on closer inspection the footage is fake. It turns out the footage is AI generated imagery - deliberately mocking absurd things posted online. David 'Kochie' Koch (pictured) has unveiled a truly shocking new look - but all is not what it seems The former Sunrise host, 68, appears in a new advertisement for Australian Lamb. In a clip from the ad, Koch is seen sporting giant muscles and ripped arms while posing at the beach It turns out the footage is AI generated imagery - deliberately mocking absurd things posted online Other scenes show various strange comments people have made online, before Lambassador Sam Kekovich urged viewers to eat some lamb. In October, Koch revealed he has become a grandfather for the ninth time. He posted to Instagram to share the jovial news that his youngest daughter Georgie has given birth to her first child. He confirmed that Georgie and her husband Alex Merkel, who live in London, have welcomed a baby daughter called Heidi. David, known by his nickname Kochie, shared an adorable picture of his wife Libby meeting their ninth grandchild for the first time in London in the heartfelt post. He gushed in a caption: 'When Libby meets Heidi grandchild #9 in London for the first time. First child for Georgie and Alex.' David confirmed his youngest daughter Georgie was expecting her first child live on The Morning Show back in April last year. He told hosts Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies at the time: 'Georgie is expecting her first child, she lives in London at the moment. In October, Koch revealed he has become a grandfather for the ninth time He confirmed that Georgie and her husband Alex Merkel have welcomed a baby daughter called Heidi and shared a picture of his wife Libby meeting the little one (pictured) 'Lib and I are off to London to visit her and on Monday we are going to the ultrasound appointment. She is 24/25 weeks.' David also gave an insight into his very sweet family tradition as he revealed the item he will be buying for Georgie during his London visit. He shared: 'We have a family tradition, we buy the first pram for each of the families. '(We're) very excited. It's number nine for us.' Georgie married her now-husband Alex in a romantic outdoor ceremony in Regent's Park, London, in July 2022. As well as Georgie, David and Libby also share daughters Brianna and Samantha, and son Alexander, better known as AJ. David already has eight other grandchildren as his son AJ welcomed his first child - a daughter called Catalina May - with his wife Carolina in 2021. The little one was born weeks after Samantha welcomed a daughter called Florence May with her partner Toby. They also share three other children - Lila, Oscar, and Matilda. David's other daughter Brianna, who lives in Perth, also has three children - Jax, Teddy and Ella - with her partner CJ Jayasinghe. David met his wife Libby decades ago when they were in their 20s and went on to tie the knot in 1979, and have been happily married ever since. 'Lib was a 20-year-old nurse. Our friend Judy decided to have a party, and that's where we met back in 1977,' David told New Idea magazine of their first meeting. David was the co-host of Channel Seven's breakfast show Sunrise for 21 years until he stepped down from the role in May last year. He said at the time: 'I have loved every single minute of it and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved here over the last 21 years.' The beloved star told how he was stepping back to enjoy more flexible working hours and spend time with his growing family. Kaz Crossley has debuted a brand new look as she prepares for her second stint on Love Island for the All Stars series. The reality star, 30, appeared on the original ITV reality show in 2018, where she reached the final and finished in third place with Josh Denzel. As she gears up to appear on the celebrity spin-off, which is set to air next Monday, Kaz looked dramatically different in the new promo shots compared to when she entered the villa almost seven years ago. Showing off her figure in a bright blue bikini, Kaz has ditched her long brunette locks for a bleach blonde buzz cut - and looks worlds away from when she was last on our screens. Back in April last year Kaz admitted she 'feels like a boy' after shaving her head for charity having developed alopecia herself following a series of traumatic events. The reality star took to Instagram to share pictures of herself holding her chopped locks after the drastic haircut. Slide me Kaz Crossley has debuted a brand new look as she prepares for her second stint on Love Island for the All Stars series Kaz appeared on the original ITV reality show in 2018, where she reached the final and finished in third place with Josh Denzel Kaz previously revealed she has suffered from hair loss as a result of 'stress' after she was held in a Dubai prison on suspicion of drug offences Kaz gave her honest opinion on the new look as she told FUBAR Radio: 'I feel like a boy. I'd be lying if I said that I felt super confident or I love it. 'It's weird for me to not have my hair but you know if it means that I take a bit of my confidence away to give these girls their confidence, then I'll do that.' The star managed to raise more than 13,000 for a children's hair loss charity after shaving her head. She raised funds for charity Little Lady Locks which relieves the needs of children up to the age of 18 who are suffering with hair loss due to alopecia or other conditions by the provision of wigs and hair systems. The television star wrote on Instagram at the time: 'Over the last few months I have been working closely with @littleladylocks charity. In this time I have met some incredibly brave and inspiring girls and have seen first hand the lengths @ashley_marie_hair goes to for them, helping regain their confidence after hair loss. 'I have seen how much these wigs have made a positive impact on their lives, and have since made it my mission to help as many girls as I can. 'So yesterday I decided to cut all my hair off - to create a wig for a little girl who needs it. 'Im determined to spread awareness of this beautiful charity and hope you all see my dedication to this cause. But it is not as simple as cutting off my hair. It costs the charity 500 to pay the wig makers to turn my hair into a wig!!! Thats why this charity desperately needs our help. Back in April last year, Kaz admitted she 'feels like a boy' after shaving her head for charity having developed alopecia herself following the series of traumatic events Kaz (second left) and her mother (second right) both cut their hair and sported cropped dos so they could make a wig for children who had lost their hair for various reasons 'It broke my heart when @ashley_marie_hair told me she was close to shutting down because they just dont have the money or support. Lets get the funds to get all the referrals seen to this month so the girls dont have to wait any longer to feel like themselves again. Please help me spread the word.' In 2023, Kaz revealed she had suffered from hair loss as a result of 'stress' after she was held in a Dubai prison on suspicion of drug offences. She was detained at Abu Dhabi airport while transferring to a flight to Thailand where she said she was going to carry out voluntary work. Following the ordeal, Kaz revealed her hair had thinned as she shared a picture of a bald patch at the front of her head. Alongside the images, Kaz wrote: 'I've just arrived in the Dominican Republic to celebrate my best friends birthday. Lucky us. 'But due to recent stress, I'm experiencing hair loss. It's got a lot thinner, I also have a small bald patch right at the front of my head. 'I'm trying to cover it by changing my parting or wearing one of my @kazbands (of course) but when I tie my hair up it's still so noticeable. 'In all honesty I'm pretty sure it's getting worse. I'm not usually one to care too much about what I look like but its starting to affect my confidence. If anyone has gone through something similar I'd really appreciate your advice or any products/treatments you'd recommend. Following the ordeal, Kaz revealed her hair had thinned as she shared a picture of a bald patch at the front of her head 'Feel free to comment below, you'd really be helping me out and hopefully others reading this too. P.S who knew that you can wear your Kazband inside out to get rid of the bow? Not me!' In February 2023, Kaz spoke out about being arrested in the United Arab Emirates on suspicion of drug offences and held in a Dubai prison. In 2020, the reality star was filmed without her knowledge, appearing to snort lines of white powder in Dubai by her 'controlling and manipulative' ex-boyfriend. She said it 'destroyed her mental health and career' and she admitted she 'didn't leave the house for three months due to crippling anxiety'. After flying into Abu Dhabi for a work trip following the incident, Kaz was put in jail for a week alongside a new mother and her six-month-old baby. She detailed the 'scariest experience of her life' as she was 'strip searched' and held with prisoners in a jail cell for a week. Speaking her 'own truth' on Instagram, Kaz said: 'Hi everyone. I wanted to do this video to speak my own truth and use my own voice about a situation that's happened to me. 'I feel like I owe it to my followers and I owe it to myself to get closure about this situation because it's been a good few years and I'm ready to move forward now.' She went on: 'In 2020, I was in Dubai. I was filmed - it was me in the video, no one forced me to do that - it was a time of my life where I definitely didn't love myself at all, probably. And this is reflected in what I was doing to my body and who I surrounded myself with.' In 2020, she was filmed appearing to snort lines of white powder in Dubai when hordes of influencers flocked there to escape Covid-19 restrictions in the UK '[The video] later got leaked and then, more recently, I was on my way to Thailand,' Kaz further explained. 'I had an amazing job offer. I was so excited for this job offer guys, it was like my dream job and I was staying up all night researching and, yeah, I did not think about the transit in Abu Dhabi and that it would be an issue for me because, obviously, I wasn't thinking and... yeah, everything happens for a reason. 'I was then detained in Abu Dhabi and kept in custody from Monday through to Friday, which is when they released me. 'I was very accepting of the situation and I was ready for whatever was going to happen to me because, at the end of the day, I take full accountability. I don't lie. I said that that was me in the video and explained the situation, it was a long time ago, etc.' Kaz is said to be 'thrilled' to be returning to the villa. A source told The Sun: 'She had a rough time a year or so ago and this feels like an amazing opportunity for her to have some fun again.' She first appeared on series four of Love Island as a Casa Amor bombshell, and famously turned Josh's head away from his then-partner Georgia Steel. After the show the pair went on to date for six months, before eventually splitting in January 2019 with Kaz saying at the time: 'Sometimes things don't go the way you planned, but you have to be grateful for the journey.' She soon sparked up a romance with fellow Love Island alum Theo Campbell in March that year, but in early 2020 he revealed he had been dumped ahead of what would have been their one-year anniversary. The pair then suffered an awkward reunion after they both appeared on Celebrity Ex On The Beach in 2022. Jennifer Coolidge had the perfect response to a red carpet reporter at the Golden Globes on Sunday. The White Lotus star was stopped by a reporter from sheknows who asked her: 'What's exciting you about being a woman in Hollywood in 2025?' Jennifer, 63, didn't hesitate as she declared: 'You can eat whatever you want now.' The video has gone viral on TikTok with fans praising the icon for 'keeping it real' whilst others called her 'a national treasure'. Jennifer - who was one of the presenters during the evening - turned heads wearing a black, ruffled dress that fell down towards her ankles for Hollywood's first big night of the 2025 awards season. Before heading inside to the main ceremony, Jennifer was also joined by her 'mystery date' - who was revealed to be her close pal and fellow actor, Tim Bagley. Jennifer Coolidge had the perfect response to a red carpet reporter at the Golden Globes on Sunday He has made a number of appearances in television shows such as Monk, King Of Queens as well as Will & Grace. Most recently, Bagley starred in the miniseries The Perfect Couple alongside Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber. Bagley was also the actress's date back in 2023 at the SAG Awards - and she notably gave him a shout out when she was accepting the award for Best Female Actor in a Drama Series for The White Lotus. 'My wonderful date, Tim Bagley, is my date for the night. He's my best bud for like 20 years,' she expressed while on stage. The star then humorously added, 'Thank you, you're a wonderful date tonight. I can't wait until we get home.' The A Cinderella Story actress has been keeping busy and recently stunned at the Palm Springs International Film Festival earlier this week on Friday. Next up for Jennifer is a rumoured return to Legally Blonde, with the actress believed to be reprising her role as Paulette Parcelle in a new spin off series - more than two decades after the original hit movie premiered. The prequel series, announced by Reese Witherspoon last May, will reportedly start shooting this year with Jennifer back as the lovesick manicurist. The White Lotus star was stopped by a reporter from sheknows who asked her: 'What's exciting you about being a woman in Hollywood in 2025?' Jennifer, 63,didn't hesitate as she declared: 'You can eat whatever you want now.' The video has gone viral on TikTok with fans praising the icon for 'keeping it real' Before heading inside to the main ceremony, Jennifer was also joined by her 'mystery date' - who was revealed to be her close pal and fellow actor, Tim Bagley It's a joint project with Reese's hugely successful production company Hello Sunshine and Amazon Prime. One role that Jennifer won't be returning to, leading to thousands of disappointed fans, is her lead in White Lotus. The trailer for the third series of the smash hit show was recently released with new cast members. The second season brought back Jennifer Coolidge as the wealthy and eccentric Tanya McQuoid, who realised in the finale that her husband Greg (Jon Gries) may have hired hitmen to murder her to acquire her vast fortune. Though she ultimately got the best of the hitmen and killed them, Tanya later slipped and hit her head on the dinghy in a freak accident that killed her. Fan favourite Jennifer previously revealed that she'd like her on-screen husband Greg to return for the third season to meet his end. 'My hope for Jon is that he's not finished with Greg,' she said in Variety's Actors on Actors interviews. 'I hope there's some comeuppance for evil Greg. I think he should, I don't know, end up in a meat-grinding machine.' Makeup free Maura Higgins appeared in great spirits as she was spotted leaving the gym on Monday after an intense workout session. The I'm A Celeb star, 34, couldn't keep the smile off her face as she went bare-faced and opted for a comfortable pair of grey jogging bottoms and a white zip up hoody. Braving the cold despite the UK's freezing temperatures, Maura showed off her pedicured toes in a pair of flip flops as she headed to her car. The reality star wore her hair in natural waves as she carried her gym bag and a black water bottle advertising Kendall Jenner's 818 Tequila! While Maura opened up about her relationship with TOWIE star Pete Wicks during her time in the jungle, her ex Curtis Pritchard is set to also make his return to the screen. The professional dancer has been revealed to be joining the line up of this year's Love Island: All Stars as he jets to South Africa alongside a new cohort of previous contestants. Maura Higgins appeared in great spirits as she went makeup free post gym session on Monday as it is revealed her ex Curtis Pritchard will appear on Love Island: All Stars The I'm A Celeb star, 34, couldn't keep the smile off her face as she went bare-faced and opted for a comfortable pair of grey jogging bottoms and a white zip up hoody And Maura is reportedly 'worried' he might spill secrets about their past relationship after the pair ended up finishing in fourth place in the 2019 series. A source told The Sun: 'Curtis signing for All Stars is more than awkward for Maura just as she's fallen for Pete and they've finally gone public with their love. 'Her break-up with Curtis wasn't the best and Maura always worried he'd be the ex that could blab. It's also less than ideal when she's hoping to build on her I'm A Celebrity profile and advance her career. 'Love Island bosses are in the process of confirming the Islanders who will launch January's show and Curtis might not make that line-up but he is in the cast of bombshells to land later in the series.' MailOnline contacted a representative for Maura for further comment. It comes after Maura discussed her experience on Love Island on Paul C Brunson's We Need To Talk podcast. Speaking about her ex Curtis, she described him as a 'why not' man, explaining she only dated him due to there being limited options in the villa. She said: 'When you're locked in a house, I say locked but you're in a house and you're in there for X amount of time. You're going to start liking people that you wouldn't normally like. While Maura opened up about her relationship with TOWIE star Pete Wicks during her time in the jungle, her ex Curtis Pritchard is set to also make his return to the screen The reality star wore her hair in natural waves as she carried her gym bag and a black water bottle advertising Kendall Jenner's 818 Tequila! Braving the cold despite the UK's freezing temperatures, Maura showed off her pedicured toes in a pair of flip flops as she headed to her car Maura is reportedly 'worried' Curtis might spill secrets about their past relationship after the pair ended up finishing in fourth place in the 2019 series The star appeared to be embracing her natural beauty after her stint in the jungle last year It comes after Maura described him as a 'why not' man, explaining she only dated him due to there being limited options in the villa She said: 'When you're locked in a house, I say locked but you're in a house and you're in there for X amount of time. You're going to start liking people that you wouldn't normally like' 'Not to be mean but you are, you're in there. I'm pretty sure it would probably be the same on Big Brother' 'Not to be mean but you are, you're in there. I'm pretty sure it would probably be the same on Big Brother. You're locked in a house; you're not seeing any other men. You're going to be like 'why not'.' Speaking about his return to the villa Curtis explained: 'I feel like Im in a different stage in my life. 'The idea of settling down is a serious idea in my life right now. I havent found my true love that sounds so cheesy doesnt it.' 'So, I thought, lets give it another go. It was great fun last time; a lot of emotions. I feel excited to go back. Im going to have a great fun time and hopefully leave with someone. Its exciting.' Curtis admitted there is one key moment from his last appearance on the show that 'follows me evberywhere' - his infamous 'making coffee in the morning.' He quipped that he will be taking some advice from his villa ex Amy Hart, admitting 'in hindsight, if I do find a girl this time, I will perhaps cuddle her in bed rather than make coffee so Amy taught me a lesson.' Mark Wright's grandfather Eddie has died at the age of 92. A spokesperson for the former TOWIE star confimed the sad news to MailOnline on Tuesday, explaining: 'Marks grandad passed away last night. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones.' Eddie, a former chamption boxer and paramedic, was hospitalised last June after a fall, with the family rushing to be by his side. Mark's father Big' Mark Wright, shared a photo of his dad on Instagram at the time, writing: 'Happy fathers day to the best unfortunately in hospital at the moment after a fall a couple of days ago but dad Im on my way up to see you now keep strong xxx'. Eddie had been part of the Wright family limelight over the years, most notably joining his grandson Mark for the BBC series Who Do You Think You Are? in 2019. Family history: In contrast he found that his father's side of the family descended from an East End wide boy, who he eventually discovered a lot of respect for Eddie, a former chamption boxer and paramedic, was hospitalised last June after a fall with the family rushing to be by his side (pictured in 2024) TOWIE star Mark revealed his grandfather was his motivation for going on the show, explaining: 'I've wanted to find out our family history forever, as my Grandad has always guessed where we're from. But nobodys ever known.' 'He was told my family of his that we were Italian and to be able to give this back to him is great. He's done so much for us, he's our king. 'It's hard to repay him but this was that moment before it's too late.' On the programme Mark described Eddie as 'a tough ex British champion boxer but on the flipside he's just a sweetheart gentleman.' Mark found out a lot about his father's side of the family during the course of the programme, as he told viewers how they grew up in London's East End. 'My great great grandfather was a bit of an east end wide boy. He was a bit of a thief but everything he did was to support his family.' 'He had eight kids living in a tiny house in east ham. In the end I saw the good in him. He lied about his age to get in the army and he was a great soldier.' Mark also expressed his love for Eddie during lockdown, fighting back tears on his Heart Radio show as he read out messages from listeners who were missing their family members. Eddie had been part of the Wright family limelight over the years, most notably joining his grandson Mark for the BBC series Who Do You Think You Are ? in 2019 Mark Jr pictured with his grandad Eddie and his dad Mark Snr on Who Do You Think You Are TOWIE star Mark revealed his grandfather was his motivation for going on the show, explaining: 'He's done so much for us, he's our king' Mark's sad news comes ten days after he revealed he is expecting his first child with his wife Michelle Keegan 'That grandad message there got me, I'm missing my grandad very much, grandad Eddie, I love you loads and I can't wait to see you soon,' he said. Mark's sad news comes ten days after he revealed he is expecting his first child with his wife Michelle Keegan. TV and radio star Mark and actress Michelle shared their happy news they are expecting their first child on December 29 in a sweet Instagram post. Netflix star Michelle cradled her blossoming bump and wrote: '2025 is going to be a special one for us' The couple received hundreds of congratulatory messages from friends and family on their Instagram post including from Rochelle Humes, Kelly Brook, Vicky Pattison, and best pal Arg. Simon Cowell gave a cheerful thumbs up on Tuesday as he stepped out in Blackpool for the latest round of Britain's Got Talent auditions. Auditions for the ITV talent show were cancelled back in October in the wake of the shock death of Liam Payne earlier that month aged 31, after he fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina. And now almost three months after the postponement, work on the show is back underway with Simon - who famously formed Liam's band One Direction - seen looking in a good mood in the seaside town. Dressed in his signature grey T-shirt and dark shades, the music mogul, 65, had seemingly put the difficult past few months to the back of his mind as he ploughed on with work. Flashing a peace sign and a warm smile, the TV judge looked raring to go following a halt in the proceedings. Simon teamed his T-shirt and shades with black trousers, shoes and a thin brown scarf, while carrying a padded jacket in his arms. Simon Cowell gave a cheerful thumbs up on Tuesday as he stepped out in Blackpool for the latest round of Britain's Got Talent auditions Auditions for the ITV talent show were cancelled back in October in the wake of the shock death of Liam Payne earlier that month aged 31, after he fell from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina Almost three months after the postponement, work on the show is back underway with Simon - who famously formed Liam's band One Direction - seen looking in a good mood in the seaside town The star will join fellow judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli on the panel, in addition to hosts Ant and Dec. YouTube star KSI will also make a guest appearance on the show. In a statement following Liam's death in October, a spokesman for the programme's producer, Freemantle UK, said: 'Due to the tragic passing of Liam Payne, we have decided to postpone the Britain's Got Talent auditions. Our thoughts are with Liam's friends, family and all who loved him.' Simon had decided last minute to call off the auditions in Blackpool as he discovered the shocking news. Following Liam's passing, a 'devastated' Simon paid a heartfelt tribute to the 'kind, funny and talented' One Direction star, who 'never forgot the fans'. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: 'You never really know how you feel about someone until a moment like this happens. 'Liam, I am truly devastated. Heartbroken. And I feel empty. And I want you to know how much love and respect I have for you. Every tear I have shed is a memory of you. 'This is so difficult to put in words right now. I went outside today, and I thought about so many times we had together. 'I wanted to let you know what I would always say to the thousands of people who would always ask me. What is Liam like? And I would tell them you were kind, funny, sweet, thoughtful, talented, humble, focused. And how much you loved music. And how much love you genuinely had for the fans. Dressed in his signature grey T-shirt and dark shades, the music mogul, 65, had seemingly put the difficult past few months to the back of his mind as he ploughed on with work Flashing a peace sign and a warm smile, the TV judge looked raring to go following a halt in the proceedings The star will join fellow judges Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli on the panel, in addition to hosts Ant and Dec. YouTube star KSI will also make a guest appearance on the show Simon had decided last minute to call off the auditions in Blackpool in October as he discovered the shocking news about [Liam, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson pictured with Simon in 2015] 'I had to tell you when you were 14 that this wasn't your time. And we both made a promise that we would meet again. A lot of people would have given up. You didn't. You came back and within months the whole world knew Liam. 'And you never forgot the fans. I watched you spending so much time with people who had wanted to meet you. You really cared. 'You came to see me last year. Not for a meeting. Just to sit and talk. And we reminisced about all of the fun times we had together. And how proud you were to be a Dad. After you left, I was reminded that you were still the sweet, kind boy I met all of those years ago.' He continued: 'I have met your son, Bear. He has your smile and that twinkle in his eyes you have. And he will be so proud of everything you achieved. And how you achieved it. Following Liam's passing, a 'devastated' Simon paid a heartfelt tribute to the 'kind, funny and talented' One Direction star, who 'never forgot the fans' 'I always thought of the 5 of you in the band as brothers. And reading their messages today I believe you were. 'And now Liam, I can see the effect you had on so many people. Because you left us too soon. 'Rest in peace my friend. And I am sending my love, thoughts and prayers to your family. Simon X' It comes after Britain's Got Talent made a huge change to the audition process. Show bosses pulled the plug on hosting the auditions in the London Palladium and they will now all be held in Blackpool instead. It comes after show bosses pulled the plug on hosting the auditions in the London Palladium and they will now all be held in Blackpool instead A source said: 'Boss Simon Cowell has given the green light to the move and just wants the show to be the best it can be' According to The Sun, bosses decided to change the location because they found the atmosphere in the seaside town to be so enthusiastic for the show. A source said: 'BGT is a show that hangs on the audience and how they react and basically the crowd in Blackpool are absolutely brilliant. 'The Palladium is such an iconic venue but if you compare the shows in Blackpool to the ones they have filmed in London, the audience is way more up for it there. 'Boss Simon Cowell has given the green light to the move and just wants the show to be the best it can be.' The insider added judge Amanda Holden may not be happy with the change, as she works five days a week in London and will have to commute. Stephen 'tWitch' Boss' widow Allison Holker revealed how she discovered that sexual abuse as a child led to his addiction before suicide at 40 in December 2022. The 36-year-old dancer - who recently went Instagram official with new boyfriend Adam Edmunds - got candid about how she found out about her late husband's drug addiction while preparing for his funeral. Best known as the DJ on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Boss was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a Los Angeles motel at the age of 40 in 2022. She told People magazine in an article published on Tuesday that she had uncovered a 'cornucopia' of drugs including mushrooms, pills, and 'other substances that I had to look up on my phone' which were hidden in his shoe boxes. Holker explained: 'I was with one of my really dear friends, and we were cleaning out the closet and picking out an outfit for him for the funeral.' 'It was a really triggering moment for me because there were a lot of things I discovered in our closet that I did not know existed. It was very alarming to me to learn that there was so much happening that I had no clue [about]. Stephen 'tWitch' Boss' widow Allison Holker revealed how she discovered that sexual abuse as a child led to his addiction before suicide at 40 in December 2022 'It was a really scary moment in my life to figure that out, but it also helped me process that he was going through so much and he was hiding so much, and there must have been a lot of shame in that.' She then went through his journals in order to find a sense of clarity and she found a very painful secret which she says was even hidden from those closest to him as she read that he had alluded to being sexually abused by a male figure during his childhood in several entries. Holker explained: 'He was wrestling with a lot inside himself, and he was trying to self-medicate and cope with all those feelings because he didn't want to put it on anyone because he loved everyone so much. 'He didn't want other people to take on his pain.' The dancer said that she initially had felt betrayed by his secrets but her perspective has changed over time. She said: 'Reading Stephen's journals, and even going back into the books he had read and the things that he was highlighting and lining, really gave me a better perspective of where he was in life and the type of things he was struggling with. 'It did have me feel a lot of empathy towards him and sadness for all the pain that he was holding.' Holker and Boss share three children together: Weslie, 16, Maddox, 8, and Zaia, 5. She told People magazine in an article published on Tuesday that she had uncovered a 'cornucopia' of drugs including mushrooms, pills, and 'other substances that I had to look up on my phone' which were hidden in his shoe boxes Holker and Boss share three children together: Weslie, 16, Maddox, 8, and Zaia, 5; as they are pictured on Christmas Day The morning he went missing Boss had dropped off their eldest Weslie - who happened to be the last person to see him alive - at school and his final words to her were: 'I wish I could be your Superman'; the family are pictured in 2021 Holker is also set to release her vulnerable new memoir - titled This Far: My Story Of Love, Loss, And Embracing The Light - which is set for release on February 4 The morning he went missing Boss had dropped off their eldest Weslie - who happened to be the last person to see him alive - at school and his final words to her were: 'I wish I could be your Superman.' Holker revealed that their child is still at the same school as she explained: 'Having someone say last words to you that you didn't really process at the time as being anything wrong... that's really hard, especially as a teenager. 'She handles it with far more grace than she should have to. We took the steps to really help her and communicate with her and make her feel seen and heard. 'I think she also sees those words as something beautiful, and also ugly. It's a battle that she's going to always have with herself, but I know she can see it from both sides.' Holker is also set to release her vulnerable new memoir - titled This Far: My Story Of Love, Loss, And Embracing The Light - which is set for release on February 4. This came months after she revealed how it felt to live in their marital home after his tragic suicide - and why she ultimately sold the property. Holker saw her world thrown into disarray as she found herself attempting to pick up the pieces and raise their children alone. Now she has bared her soul about the experience of living in their house after his death, which occurred in a motel just 15 minutes' walk away. She described the home as a 'security blanket' but confessed that the 'emotions' attached to it eventually began to 'swallow us,' on the SoFi podcast Richer Lives. This came months after she revealed how it felt to live in their marital home after his tragic suicide - and why she ultimately sold the property as she and tWitch purchased the home in the Los Angeles suburb of Encino for $2.7 million in 2019, and she sold it alone for $3.525 million in November 2023 'You know, that home was our security blanket for a really long time. We loved that home. It always felt so safe to us,' she said. 'But it did take a turn, and a lot of people don't talk about that after grief, is like - I was holding onto these past emotions, thinking it was saving me, but it started to swallow us,' the professional dancer shared. 'And it was a very, very big decision to uproot my children. Right? Their lives had already been so changed. I was like: "Is it okay for me to do this to them?"' However she found that leaving the house 'was the best decision for us, because when we moved, we bought a new home and that became our sanctuary. It was like the final step to our hearing, where now we could leave that in the past, and we could finally take a step forward for each other, and it became freedom.' Allison revealed that their new home 'became a place for us to find solace and create new memories and new beginnings and fresh starts, and everyone kind of felt like a weight was lifted off of our shoulders.' She and tWitch purchased the home in the Los Angeles suburb of Encino for $2.7 million in 2019, and she sold it alone for $3.525 million in November 2023. Built in 2018, the home included six bedrooms and six and a half bathrooms, and was decorated by the couple in collaboration with Pottery Barn. Allison's latest disclosures about her grieving process come after she announced last month that she will publish a memoir called This Far in February. He adopted her daughter Weslie, now 16, from a previous relationship, and he and Holker also had two children of their own - Maddox, eight, and Zaia, four Holker, 36, saw her world thrown into disarray as she found herself attempting to pick up the pieces and raise their children alone; pictured in August Last month, she went public with her new boyfriend Adam Edmunds, the CEO of the software firm-focused property management company Entrata. They made their romance red carpet official by posing together at the Alice + Olivia Spring 2025 show during New York Fashion Week. She and Boss began dating in 2010 and married in 2013, one year before he landed his job as the beloved DJ on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. He adopted Holker's daughter Weslie, now 16, from a previous relationship, and the couple also had two children of their own - Maddox, eight, and Zaia, four. In December 2022, he checked into to the Oak Tree Inn in the Los Angeles suburb of Encino - 15 minutes' walk from his house - and shot himself. His body was discovered the morning after he arrived at the motel by a horrified maid who came upon him in a pool of blood in the bath. Boss' shock suicide prompted an outpouring of grief from fans around the world, and Holker was showered with sympathy. Just weeks before his death, Boss and Holker had gone on The Jennifer Hudson Show and shared that they hoped to have another baby. Last month, she went public at New York Fashion Week with her new boyfriend Adam Edmunds, the CEO of the software firm-focused property management company Entrata Last December, Holker uploaded a touching Instagram post about mourning as she approached two milestones - what would have been her and Boss' 10th wedding anniversary, and three days after that, his first death anniversary. 'Grief never ends .. but every season of challenge has an expiration date. Keep believing and keep dancing through,' she wrote. The following month she revealed that she was open to the possibility of dating again, in an episode of Nick Viall's podcast The Viall Files. 'It was very hard for me to learn to like myself again and to learn to love myself again...it's a very complex situation I found myself in,' she said. 'It took me a long time to accept all of those things and those complexities of everything. But at the end of the day, I love life.' When the subject of a new man came up, she said: 'Would I shy away from it? No. Am I looking for it? I don't know...but I'm definitely not shying away from it.' Victoria's Secret model Elaine Irwin was an 1980s pinup who landed Vogue magazine covers making her a top star alongside Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington. The young looker also posed for splashy campaigns for Calvin Klein, Almay and Ralph Lauren for many years. And the star from Pennsylvania became an international celebrity when she married Pink Houses hitmaker John Cougar Mellencamp, now 73, in 1992 when she was only 23-years-old. Together they had two children and moved to the countryside in Indiana where they could nest. But in 2011 the power couple divorced and Elaine was not seen much after that. On Sunday the timeless icon came out of hiding as she attended the Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills. The red carpet star looked youthful in a gold halter dress as she mingled with Molly Sims, and sisters Sara and Erin Foster. See how incredible she looks now. Victoria's Secret model Elaine Irwin was an 1980s pinup who landed magazine covers making her a top star alongside Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington The young looker also posed for splashy campaigns for Calvin Klein, Almay and Ralph Lauren for many years. On the right she was on the Versace runway in 1992 Her climb to the top of the modeling world came at a young age. The nearly 6ft tall head-turner was born in Pennsylvania but left for the big city at 16 for her modeling career. After her photo appeared in Seventeen magazine in 1985, she became an 'it' girl. In 1989 she appeared in the music video for New Order's Round And Round off their 1989 album Technique. Then came covers for Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Self and Elite. Her US Beauty Vogue cover was shot by Richard Avedon. Elaine presented a sexier image for Victoria's Secret, Thierry Mugler, Versace and Prada. Irwin became the first woman to drive the pace car at the Indianapolis 500 in May 2001. She was also an at-large delegate to the 2004 Democratic National Convention. Her Cosmopolitan magazine covers; left is 1989 and right is 1991 Elaine appeared on many covers of Vogue magazine She was on the cover of Vogue with Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington. She said of the cover: 'I remember this day so well, although at that time, had no idea I would later look back with such pride and gratitude for having been a part of it' In Calvin Klein underwear when she was in her 20s Here the Pennsylvania native is seen in an ad for Ralph Lauren She became an international celebrity when she married Pink Houses hitmaker John Cougar Mellencamp in 1992 when she was only 23-years-old. Seen in 2010 in NYC With Jay Penske at the 2022 Baby2Baby Gala at Pacific Design Center in LA in 2022; they wed in 2012 Also in 2004, it was announced that Almay Cosmetics, owned by Revlon, selected Elaine as their spokesmodel and signed her to a seven year contract. Elaine was 23 years old when she met Mellencamp. She posed for his Whenever We Wanted album cover then was the star of his Get A Leg Up music video. They wed 10 weeks later on September 5, 1992. They have two sons. She was stepmother to John's daughter Teddi Mellencamp whose mother is Victoria Granucci. Teddi, 43, is best known for starring on the reality TV series The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills with Kyle Richards and Garcelle Beauvais. In December 2010, Elaine and John separated after 18 years of marriage. They stayed in Indiana to look after the kids. On Sunday she came out of hiding as she attended the Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills The red carpet star looked youthful in a gold dress with her hair up Molly Sims, Elaine, Erin Foster, Sara Foster with Fran Drescher in the background On January 14, 2011, John filed for divorce and requested that Elaine be returned to her maiden name 'Irwin'. On August 12, 2011, their divorce was finalized. In October 2012, Irwin became engaged to racecar team owner and media businessman Jay Penske. They had a daughter in May 2013. She has resided in California since 2013. John went on to romance stars like Meg Ryan and Christie Brinkley in NYC. Elaine seemed thrilled with her GG experience which was co-produced by Jay's Penske Media. She shared several photos to Instagram from the Globes. She said in her caption, 'Thank you @ralphlauren for the most amazing dress - it should have had its own category for the awards! What a more perfect way to kick off the New Year than celebrating with friends at the 2025 @goldenglobes. Congratulations @penskemedia.' Nick Frost debuted his stylish new look on Instagram on Tuesday. The actor, 52, opted for a chic pair of tortoise shell glasses and a short neat moustache. He penned alongside the selfie: 'Found these in a cupboard. Thoughts?? (I kinda them!)' It comes just hours before the star was spotted leaving the BBC studio in London. The Shaun Of The Dead star cut a casual figure in a beige quilted North Face jacket layered over a navy blue sweater and green trousers. He completed his look with a blue beanie hat, silver chain necklace, and a pair of white Asics trainers. Nick Frost debuted his stylish new look on Instagram on Tuesday It comes just hours before the star was spotted leaving the BBC studio in London Nick appeared in high spirits as he flashed a smile for the cameras while heading home. The star has been busy promoting his new slasher comedy movie Get Away, which is directed by Steffen Haars and written by Nick himself. Get Away centres on the Smith family, who are looking forward to spending a vacation on the small Swedish island of Svalta. However, the mainlanders warn them to avoid the island at all costs, especially during the Karantan festival which is precisely when they're going. The family opts to take the ferry to the island anyway. However, while they are there, the locals are actively hostile and rude, with their extreme behaviour suggesting that something bad is about to happen. The movie was released in theatres on December 6 before making its way to Shudder on January 10. The star, who is famous for his screen partnership with Simon Pegg, previously spoke out on his battle with an eating disorder which saw him secretly binge on junk food. The comedy actor has since lost six stone in a bid to be around for his young family, explaining: 'I have a two-year-old, you know, and I'm just aware that big fat men in their fifties don't become big fat men in their sixties, and that's just a fact.' The Shaun Of The Dead star cut a casual figure in a beige quilted North Face jacket layered over a navy blue sweater and green trousers Nick appeared in high spirits as he flashed a smile for the cameras as he headed home Speaking to The Sunday Times magazine in September 2023 about his battle with eating, Nick explained how he would 'hide in his car and eat two iced buns and four Snickers', and that he knew he was suffering from a form of disorder. Nick went on to discuss how his struggle with eating largely began when he quit smoking and drinking, as he replaced his old bad habits with a new one. He said: 'It was interesting stopping cigarettes and any kind of mind-altering chemicals and drinking, and thinking, "Yes, I'm good, I've done it." And suddenly you find yourself eating six Wispas in a dark room and hiding all your s***, enjoying the James Bondness of addiction, all the secret bits.' However, Nick says he has now taken responsibility for his eating and his health, he proudly told the publication he had lost six stone, adding: 'So now only an XXXL.' Revealing how he lost the weight, he said: 'I've taken responsibility for it, because it's fine me saying, "I'm gonna make sure the kids have the best dad they can have," but it's b******t if I'm secretly eating in the toilet. So I've had to not do that.' The star, who is famous for his screen partnership with Simon Pegg, previously spoke out on his battle with an eating disorder which saw him secretly binge on junk food (pictured in 2023) Speaking to The Sunday Times magazine about his battle with eating, he explained how he would 'hide in his car and eat two iced buns and four Snickers' (pictured in 2020) Nick shares his daughter, two, and his son, four, with his partner and the family lives together in southwest London. Nick's girlfriend has never been photographed and their little boy's name has never been shared publicly. He also has a 12-year-old son, Mac, from his marriage to ex-wife Christina. They were married in 2008 and after seven years of marriage, the couple split in 2013, before divorcing in 2015 Justin Baldoni's lawyer has claimed he has evidence of Blake Lively's alleged 'pattern of bullying' on It Ends With Us amid the pair's vicious lawsuits against each other. Lively, 37, starred in It Ends With Us opposite Baldoni, 40, who also directed the film, which was released in theaters this past August and is currently streaming on Netflix. After months of rumors, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging Baldoni had improvised unwanted kissing scenes and created a hostile work environment through sexual harassment and more. Just a day later, The New York Times published an article revealing Baldoni hired a crisis PR team to 'bury' Lively and destroy her credibility, with Lively then suing Baldoni and his Wayfarer Studios company later that day. Baldoni responded by filing a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times for their report that he claimed pushed an, 'unverified and self-serving narrative.' Now attorney Bryan Freedman says he has 'receipts' showing Lively's alleged 'threats to take over the movie' in a new statement issued to People on Tuesday, January 7. Justin Baldoni's lawyer has claimed he has evidence of Blake Lively's alleged 'pattern of bullying' on It Ends With Us amid the pair's vicious lawsuits against each other Now attorney Bryan Freedman (pictured 2024) says he has 'receipts' showing Lively's alleged 'threats to take over the movie' in a new statement issued to People on Tuesday, January 7 He said: 'It is painfully ironic that Blake Lively is accusing Justin Baldoni of weaponizing the media when her own team orchestrated this vicious attack by sending The New York Times grossly edited documents prior to even filing the complaint. 'We are releasing all of the evidence which will show a pattern of bullying and threats to take over the movie. 'None of this will come as a surprise because consistent with her past behavior Blake Lively used other people to communicate those threats and bully her way to get whatever she wanted. We have all the receipts and more.' DailyMail.com has contacted Blake Lively's representatives for comment. This comes after lawyers for Lively condemned Baldoni for launching even 'more attacks' against his client. Lively's legal team insists to People that Lively's, 'serious claims of sexual harassment and retaliation' are in fact, 'backed by concrete facts.' 'This is not a feud arising from "creative differences" or a "he said/she said" situation,' Lively's lawyers' statement began. 'As alleged in Ms. Livelys complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set,' the attorneys added. Lively, 37, starred in It Ends With Us opposite Baldoni, 40, who also directed the film, which was released in theaters this past August. After months of rumors, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, alleging Baldoni had improvised unwanted kissing scenes and created a hostile work environment through sexual harassment and more Freedman said: 'None of this will come as a surprise because consistent with her past behavior Blake Lively used other people to communicate those threats and bully her way to get whatever she wanted. We have all the receipts and more' - Baldoni pictured August 2024 'And their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing,' they continued. 'Sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry,' the lawyers added while breaking down some 'classic tactics' employed by abusers. 'A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to "blame the victim" by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied,' the statement continued. 'Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim. These concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct,' they said. 'Most importantly, media statements are not a defense to Ms. Livelys legal claims. We will continue to prosecute her claims in federal court, where the rule of law determines who prevails, not hyperbole and threats,' the statement concluded. Lively claimed in her lawsuit that the smear campaign employed by Baldoni employed caused her to suffer 'financial harms' which 'continue to the present'. She states that her haircare brand, Blake Brown, and her two drinks ranges, Betty Buzz and Betty Booze, both suffered huge losses in sales due to the backlash she received. Lively claimed in her lawsuit that the smear campaign employed by Baldoni employed c aused her to suffer 'financial harms' which 'continue to the present' The lawsuit states that Blake Brown sales plummeted by up to 78 per cent after the 'social manipulation campaign started'. It said: 'Based on internal sales projections, the sudden and unexpected negative media campaign launched against Ms. Lively depressed retail sales of Blake Brown products by 56-78 per cent.' The lawsuit added: 'This dramatic drop was completely at odds with the high satisfaction scores that Blake Brown products received in the significant consumer testing performed before launch or its initial success after launch'. Bethenny Frankel shared several new photos to Instagram as she ended her vacation in Miami. The 54-year-old Real Housewives Of New York veteran was seen in several swimsuits. One was a sky blue bikini that flashed her flat tummy and strong legs as she added a hat and sunglasses during a beach day while holding onto a Christian Dior purse. The Skinnygirl founder was also seen in turquoise blue one-piece suit with a wrap on her hips and then in a colorful two piece while shooting a selfie. Also in the post the reality TV diva announced she took her daughter Bryn Hoppy to visit a college in Miami. The child is only 14-years-old and won't be heading to college for another four years. Her father is Bethenny's ex-husband Jason Hoppy. Bethenny Frankel shared several new photos to Instagram as she ended her vacation in Miami. The 54-year-old Real Housewives Of New York veteran was seen in several swimsuits One was a sky blue bikini that flashed her flat tummy and strong legs as she added a hat and sunglasses during a beach day while holding onto a Christian Dior purse 'Thats a wrap on a fabulous holiday in Miami,' wrote the cover girl in her caption. 'We indulged in delicious food, soaked up the sun, Mingled a bit, and even got a glimpse into the college mom era with a tour at the @univmiami! 'There is nothing quite like these cherished moments away from the hustle with the ones I hold so dear.' She shared a hashtag that read, 'Mommy and me.' Last week she was spotted with her new boyfriend Tom Villante in Florida. Her partner, 56, is the founder of Yapstone. They have been an item since this summer as they have been seen holding hands while out to dinner together. They also snuggled at the Yellowstone season 5B premiere on November 7 in New York City. Bethenny was asked if she is already engaged to her new man wen she flashed a big ring on her wedding finger. She snapped back on social media. Speaking in a video posted to TikTok, she said: 'This is what they call a flexible diamond ring and it is impossible to be sized. 'If I wanna wear a ring on my belly, on my teeth, on my toe, on my nose, Ill do it. So until further notice, Im engaged to my daughter and myself.' Her last romance was with fiance Paul Bernon. Frankel has one child, daughter Bryn Hoppy, with her ex Jason Hoppy, whom she wed in 2010 and finalized her divorce from in 2021. Next the mother of one was in a colorful two piece while shooting a mirror selfie In this image she held up a Mingle Mocktail in a pink can while wearing a B pendant necklace The Skinnygirl founder was also seen in turquoise blue one-piece suit with a wrap on her hips Also in the post the reality TV diva announced she took her daughter Bryn Hoppy to visit a college in Miami The child is only 14-years-old and won't be heading to college for another four years. Her father is Bethenny's ex-husband Jason Hoppy This comes after Frankel said she hasn't always enjoyed celebrating her birthday. The star shared her birthday with her mom Bernadette - who died of lung cancer in April - and Bethenny has now admitted that their 'complicated' relationship made it difficult for her to celebrate the occasion. The TV star wrote on Instagram: 'I was born on my mother's 20th birthday. I was never public about sharing her birthday. 'Our relationship was complicated at best and it represented pain and shame. Its symbolism was inescapable. 'Birthdays have always been an incredible source of anxiety. Like Goldilocks, too little was too little and too much was too much. 'The biggest trauma in my life was this mother daughter relationship, and we were tethered to one another on this one day. As a child I would get physically sick every year.' In December Frankel had on another suit while at Art Basel: 'Weekend in Miami wouldnt be complete without good friends, amazing food, and a little sun! ' wrote the siren Frankel made her first public appearance with boyfriend Tom Villante in November at the Yellowstone season 5B premiere in New York City By contrast, Bethenny admitted that she now feels 'lighter' and 'happier'. The TV star also revealed that she feels proud of her age and who she's become. Bethenny continued: 'This year, I feel free, lighter, happier as if something has been lifted. It has been profoundly transformative. I am proud of my age and of the mother, friend, partner and person I am and I am truly happy. I have everything I want and need. 'Thank you for giving me the greatest gift I could ever ask for which is your love, understanding and support. I learn from you every day. 'Happy Birthday to myself xoxo [celebration emojis]. 'PS. I can't wait to show you the vintage Mercedes I bought in her honor #happybirthday.' Katie Price and Kerry Katona showed their love for each other is stronger than ever as the best friends shared a kiss at the launch party for the new series of Geordie Shore in London. The former glamour model, 46, and the Atomic Kitten star, 44, arrived at the bash hand-in-hand, before giving each other a smooch - before Katie posed with her boyfriend JJ Slater inside. They first formed a close friendship back in 2004, when they appeared on the third series of I'm A Celebrity, with Katie finishing in fifth place while Kerry won the show. Katie left her toned legs and midriff on full display as she donned a pair of sequinned black hot pants and a matching cropped jumper. Sweeping her raven hair up into a high ponytail and sporting a full face of glamorous makeup, she completed her look with Balmain high heels. While Kerry looked nothing short of sensational, as she showcased her incredible curves in a brown leather dress. Katie Price and Kerry Katona showed their love for each other is stronger than ever as the best friends shared a kiss at the launch party for the new series of Geordie Shore in London Katie was also joined at the party by her boyfriend and Married At First Sight UK star JJ Slater Also in attendance at the star-studded event was Katie's eldest son, Junior Andre, 19, who she shares with ex-husband Peter Andre The figure-hugging number clung to every inch of her slender frame, while she added sparkle to the look with a diamond cross necklace and bejewelled sandals. The OnlyFans star wore her blonde locks poker straight and toted a black handbag as she cosied up to her best pal. Katie was also joined at the party by her boyfriend and Married At First Sight UK star JJ. The 32-year-old cut a casual figure in an oversized black T-shirt and pleather-style trousers, paired with several pearl chokers and a designer bag. Katie wasted no time in cosying up to her man as they posed for photos, with the mother-of-five wrapping her arms around him and giving him a kiss. Also in attendance at the star-studded event was Katie's eldest son, Junior Andre, 19, who she shares with ex-husband Peter Andre. The teenager looked effortlessly stylish in a cream letterman jacket, acid-washed jeans and a plain white T-shirt, with a diamond necklace. While the cast of Geordie Shore looked raring to party the night away as they celebrated the launch of the 25th series. The former glamour model, 46, and the Atomic Kitten star, 44, arrived at the bash hand-in-hand, before giving each other a smooch They first formed a close friendship back in 2004, when they appeared on the third series of I'm A Celebrity , with Katie finishing in fifth place while Kerry won the show Katie left her toned legs and midriff on full display as she donned a pair of sequinned black hotpants and a matching cropped jumper Sweeping her raven hair up into a high ponytail and sporting a full face of glamorous makeup, she completed her look with Balmain high heels While Kerry looked nothing short of sensational, as she showcased her incredible curves in a brown leather dress The figure-hugging number clung to every inch of her slender frame, while she added sparkle to the look with a diamond cross necklace and bejewelled sandals The OnlyFans star wore her blonde locks poker straight and toted a black handbag as she cosied up to her best pal The 32-year-old cut a casual figure in an oversized black T-shirt and pleather-style trousers, paired with several pearl chokers and a designer bag Katie wasted no time in cosying up to her man as they posed for photos, with the mother-of-five wrapping her arms around him and giving him a kiss The teenager looked effortlessly stylish in a cream letterman jacket, acid-washed jeans and a plain white T-shirt, with a diamond necklace The new season follows the gang as they jet off to Thailand to celebrate Kyle Christie's stag-do, organised by best mate James Tindale. While stars Sophie Kasaei, Nathan Henry, Chloe Ferry, Jay Gardner, Ricci Guarnaccio, Holly Hagan, Abbie Holborn and Scott Timlin will be joining them. Chloe put on a very busty display at the bash, slipping into a skin-tight leopard print dress that emphasized her surgically-enhanced assets. While Sophie dazzled in an elegant black gown with diamond snowflakes encrusted across the neckline. Nathan stood out from the crowd thanks to his eye-catching teal jumper and black and white loafers. And Abbie left little to the imagination in a sheer lace dress with a thigh-high leg slit and huge cut-out across her chest. Other familiar faces at the event included TOWIE stars Amy Childs, Harry Derbidge, Dani Imbert, Freddie Bentley, Ella Rae Wise and Saffron Lempriere. Cousins Amy and Harry posed together, with Amy sending temperatures soaring in a daring black jumpsuit with a plunging neckline. While the cast of Geordie Shore looked raring to party the night away as they celebrated the launch of the 25th series (L-R James Tindale, Kyle Christie, Sophie Kasaei, Abbie Holborn, Chloe Ferry and Chantelle Connelly, Ricci Guarnaccio and Nathan Henry) The new season follows the gang as they jet off to Thailand to celebrate Kyle Christie's stag-do, organised by best mate James Tindale (pictured) While stars Sophie Kasaei, Nathan Henry, Chloe Ferry, Jay Gardner, Ricci Guarnaccio (pictured), Holly Hagan, Abbie Holborn and Scott Timlin will be joining them. Chloe put on a very busty display at the bash, slipping into a skin-tight leopard print dress that emphasized her surgically-enhanced assets While Sophie dazzled in an elegant black gown with diamond snowflakes encrusted across the neckline Chantelle commanded attention in her illusion-inspired catsuit, that hugged every inch of her frame and left plenty of skin on show Nathan stood out from the crowd thanks to his eye-catching teal jumper and black and white loafers And Abbie left little to the imagination in a sheer lace dress with a thigh-high leg slit and huge cut-out across her chest Dani also sported a racy look, wearing a tiny black satin playsuit, that left her legs on display and barely contained her ample cleavage. Ella opted for a skimpy playsuit as well, pairing her burgundy number with matching tights and a white collared shirt underneath. While Saffron put on a leggy display in a checked tweed blazer and miniskirt co-ord with over-the-knee leather boots. Love Island's Arabella Chi looked chic in a black tuxedo jacket layered over a coordinating turtleneck and elevated with an elegant bow in her hair. The pregnant star hid her blossoming baby bump under a pair of leather-look trousers, after revealing she is expecting a baby girl with boyfriend Billy Henty in May 2025. Fellow Love Island star Megan Barton-Hanson ensured all eyes were on her in a very racy minidress, with a conical bra-style bodice and lace-up detailing. Drawing attention to her long legs, she wrapped up with a faux-fur coat and added a pair of knee-high heeled boots. While former Love Island winner Paige Turley looked glamorous in a strapless black top teamed with PVC leggings and peep-toe heels. Other familiar faces at the event included TOWIE stars Amy Childs (pictured), Harry Derbidge, Dani Imbert, Freddie Bentley, Ella Rae Wise and Saffron Lempriere Cousins Amy and Harry posed together (pictured), with Amy sending temperatures soaring in a daring black jumpsuit with a plunging neckline Dani also sported a racy look, wearing a tiny black satin playsuit, that left her legs on display and barely contained her ample cleavage Ella opted for a skimpy playsuit as well, pairing her burgundy number with matching tights and a white collared shirt underneath While Saffron put on a leggy display in a checked tweed blazer and miniskirt co-ord with over-the-knee leather boots Love Island's Arabella Chi looked chic in a black tuxedo jacket layered over a coordinating turtleneck and elevated with an elegant bow in her hair The pregnant star hid her blossoming baby bump under a pair of leather-look trousers, after revealing she is expecting a baby girl with boyfriend Billy Henty in May 2025 Fellow Love Island star Megan Barton-Hanson ensured all eyes were on her in a very racy minidress, with a conical bra-style bodice and lace-up detailing While former Love Island winner Paige Turley looked glamorous in a strapless black top teamed with PVC leggings and peep-toe heels MAFS UK star Lacey Martin flashed a daring glimpse of her underwear in a plunging black dress with a sheer ruched skirt Her co-stars Adam Nightingale, Alexander Henry and Ross McCarthy also made an appearance, with the trio posing on the red carpet together Made In Chelsea star Rosie Fortescue nailed winter chic in a stylish green coat, leather trousers and a patterned scarf While EastEnders' actress Danielle Harold cut a sophisticated figure in a checked blazer, floaty white blouse and tight black leggings MAFS UK star Lacey Martin flashed a daring glimpse of her underwear in a plunging black dress with a sheer ruched skirt. Her co-stars Adam Nightingale, Alexander Henry and Ross McCarthy also made an appearance, with the trio posing on the red carpet together. Made In Chelsea star Rosie Fortescue nailed winter chic in a stylish green coat, leather trousers and a patterned scarf. While EastEnders' actress Danielle Harold cut a sophisticated figure in a checked blazer, floaty white blouse and tight black leggings. Katie and Kerry just finished starring wicked step-sisters together in a pantomime of Cinderella at the Northwich Memorial Court in Cheshire. The pair even spent Christmas and New Year's Eve together, with Katie supporting her pal after Kerry's split from fiance Ryan Mahoney in November after six years together. Their close bond is set to be taken to a whole new level, with Kerry declaring her eldest daughter Molly would be giving the duo matching tattoos. And in her recent column for New magazine, she explained that the TV personality has been giving her guidance and 'moral support' as she plans to get a lower facelift. Kerry explained she has turned to her surgery-obsessed pal for help, writing: 'Katie is going to come to stay with me when I get it done for moral support, which I really appreciate.' She added: 'Katie is in such a good headspace right now and its amazing to see, Im so proud of her. She has been a real pillar of support for me these past few months.' Katie and Kerry just finished starring wicked step-sisters together in a pantomime of Cinderella at the Northwich Memorial Court in Cheshire Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood confirmed he quietly married his longtime partner Mette-Marie Kongsved. While appearing on the latest episode of the Inside of You podcast with Michael Rosenbaum, the actor, 43, referred to the film producer, 33, as his 'wife' as he gushed about feeling 'beyond grateful' for her as well as his 'family and kids.' The remarks come after sources recently told TMZ that the couple 'got married in Sweden on New Years Eve in what was described as an intimate ceremony with about 80 friends and family members.' The pair, who have been romantically linked since 2018, welcomed their first child, a son, in 2019, and a daughter, born two years later. They have not publicly disclosed the names of either of their children. Wood is believed to have originally met Kongsved back in April 2016 on the set of Netflix's Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore, which she produced and he starred in. Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood seemingly confirms he quietly married his longtime partner Mette-Marie Kongsved; seen in 2024 They waited, however, to make their first public appearance together until 2019 at the Rodarte fashion show. Mette-Marie also produced Wood's films Mandy (2018), Come to Daddy (2019), and the upcoming adventure movie Bookworm directed by Ant Timpson. She was previously married to director Evan Louis Katz, but they split in 2016. In 2023, Wood opened up about the birth of their second child and the early mornings that come along with parenthood. 'I like getting up early, I like starting the day,' he told WSJ. Magazine in 2023, after noting he gets up between 5:30 and 6:30 every morning. For breakfast, he likes to make his family 'oatmeal with various spices, peanut butter and fruitbanana, apples, blackberries.' 'I also really like overnight oats or muesli with yogurt, and I sometimes eat that with them,' he added. Additionally, the star said becoming parents changed their relationship. While appearing on the latest episode of the Inside of You podcast with Michael Rosenbaum, the actor, 43, referred to the film producer, 33, as his 'wife' as he gushed about feeling 'beyond grateful' for his spouse as well as his 'family and kids' (pictured in 2019) The remarks come after sources recently told TMZ that the couple 'got married in Sweden on New Years Eve in what was described as an intimate ceremony with about 80 friends and family members' (seen in 2021) 'You're constantly being challenged, in the best way,' he raved. 'It's as much my own personal growth as it is about my child's growth..' The Iowa-born actor also told the outlet that he loves taking an active role as a father from sleep training to packing school lunches for his little ones. And while Wood has amassed millions of followers on Twitter/Facebook, he revealed he has a private Instagram account to keep his personal life out of the spotlight. 'I wanted to be able to share photos that I didn't necessarily want to share with the world,' Wood explained. 'An account that's public-facing would really change what I share. It's not like I'm sharing anything that I wouldn't want to go out, but I'm a relatively private person.' Upon learning he was going to be a father, Wood previously said during an appearance on Late Night With Seth Meyers that he hasn't 'had a cigarette since then.' It is unknown when or if Wood and Kongsved are legally married, but they have sparked engagement and marriage rumors since she began wearing a diamond ring on her left finger back in 2019. Armie Hammer has revealed his shock return to big screen acting after a cannibalism scandal imploded his once stellar Hollywood career. The 38-year-old Call Me By Your Name star, fell from grace when a series of disturbing allegations were made against him by multiple women, who accused him of violent abuse and harboring cannibalism fantasies. He was investigated by the LAPD in 2023 but ultimately wasn't charged. Hammer will take on the lead role in Uwe Boll's vigilante thriller, The Dark Knight which is scheduled to begin principal photography in Croatia on January 27, per Variety. In The Dark Knight - not to be confused with Christopher Nolan's 2008 Batman film - Hammer will play Sanders, a man who 'takes justice into his own hands as he sets out to hunt down criminals.' His vigilantism transforms him into a hero in the eyes of the public and a social media star, but the local police chief views him as a danger to society and vows to apprehend him. Armie Hammer has revealed his shock return to big screen acting after a cannibalism scandal imploded his once stellar Hollywood career The 38-year-old Call Me By Your Name star, fell from grace when a series of disturbing allegations were made against him by multiple women, who accused him of violent abuse and harboring cannibalism fantasies - pictured with Timothee Chalamet Boll said: 'The story of The Dark Knight couldnt be a more current topic, and Im excited to bring it to life with this excellent cast.' German filmmaker Boll has become a controversial figure directing panned films including Alone In The Dark - widely considered to be one of the worst films ever made - and BloodRayne. Executive producer Michael Roesch said 'our movie is very different from Chris Nolans movie, so there is no danger of confusion. 'With Armie Hammer in the lead role and more great actors to be announced soon, and with an outstanding script, we are excited to build up on the great response we got for First Shift and Run, and will have another strong movie soon.' In a recent podcast interview, Hammer said his career had picked back up again and added: 'My dance cards getting pretty full. That first job that I turned down after four years of this s**t, I mean, it was the best feeling Ive ever had.' Fans quickly took to social media to comment on the casting with one writing: 'Surprising anyone would go to see him act in a film. Another wrote: 'Not the cannibal redemption arc' while a third typed: 'A role he can really sink his teeth into.' Others wrote: 'this guy was supposed to play batman in george millers JUSTICE LEAGUE: MORTAL & now hes going to be uwe bolls the dark knight. Hammer will take on the lead role in Uwe Boll's (pictured) vigilante thriller, The Dark Knight which is scheduled to begin principal photography in Croatia on January 27, per Variety German filmmaker Boll has become a controversial figure directing panned films including Alone In The Dark - widely considered to be one of the worst films ever made - and BloodRayne 'I cant imagine the roles he was turning down 'A comeback in an Uwe Boll movie is not really a comeback. 'even though Hammer is a little bit canceled, he still costs an arm and a leg 'Is it April 1st already? 'batman fighting a cannibal and directed by Uwe Boll? i've waited a lifetime for this movie 'Men get away with everything i am tired.. 'I just know nikki glaser is going to have a great time with this one next year at the golden globes 'HES GONNA EAT UP HIS CO-WORKERS.' Hammer also recently filmed Travis Mills' Western Frontier Crucible. In February 2021 Hammer's ex-girlfriend, Effie Angelova, 26, accused him of 'violently' raping and abusing her in 2017. He denied the accusations of rape through his attorney and said all of his sexual encounters were 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory'. Earlier this year Hammer revealed he is grateful for the shock cannibalism and abuse allegations which imploded his once-stellar Hollywood acting career. Speaking on the Painful Lessons podcast, the actor said of the scandal: 'Whatever it was that people said, whatever it was that happened, I'm now at a place in my life where I'm grateful for every single bit of it, On Wednesdays You Mamas House podcast, Hammer, who claims he's now living in a 'tiny apartment' as he works to rebuild his career, reflected on the whirlwind of the controversy and how it captivated the public during the COVID-19 lockdown He shares two children, daughter Harper and son Ford, with his ex-wife Elizabeth Chambers, and they have been co-parenting since their 2020 split 'I'm actually now at a place where I'm really grateful for it because where I was in my life before all of that stuff happened to me I didn't feel good I never felt satisfied I never had enough I never was in a place where I was happy with myself where I had self-esteem. 'I never knew how to give myself love. I never knew how to give myself self-validation but I had this job where I was able to get it from so many people that I never had to learn how to give it to myself.' On being accused of cannibalism - he added: 'People called me a cannibal. Like I ate people! What???? You know what you have to do to be a cannibal? You have to eat people!' He added of his downfall: 'It was an ego death, a career death. A neutron bomb went off in my life. It killed off [everything]' His then-wife Elizabeth Chambers split from him in July 2020 - the former couple share two young children. The star said he had contemplated suicide during that period, saying: 'There were a lot of times when I thought I can't take this anymore. I was getting hateso it just went right in there was a time 'I was standing at the shore and I swam out really far and just laying there..a half-assed suicide attemptBut I thought I couldn't do that to my kids.' He admitted his Hollywood career is 'nowhere now' and said he's 'creating his own sandbox' and planning to write a screenplay. Annie Knight has revealed her pregnancy scare after sleeping with 600 men in one year. The OnlyFans model, dubbed 'Australia's most sexually active woman', shared a video to Instagram on Tuesday while taking a test on Christmas Eve after 'vomiting for three days in a row'. 'I've been railed by over 600 people this year and this is where we are at. It's the end of the year and I haven't had a pregnancy scare all year,' Annie, 26, began. 'But I've been vomiting three days in a row, every single morning waking up super nauseous, which I never do and I have heartburn. 'I'm scared, it's literally Christmas Eve.' Annie waited for the test results while surrounded by her friends and explained: 'Two lines is positive.' Annie Knight (pictured) has revealed her pregnancy scare after sleeping with 600 men in one year The OnlyFans model, dubbed 'Australia's most sexually active woman', shared an Instagram video on Tuesday while taking a test on Christmas Eve after 'vomiting for three days in a row' Moments later the Gold Coast-based content creator began cheering and yelling: 'I'm baby-free! Now we can really celebrate.' Annie has made quite the name for herself online as she shares hundreds of shocking and wild sex stories to her 175,000 followers. Last month, she shared a post to Instagram revealing she plans to have sex with even more men this year - and half of them will be virgins. The influencer shared a selfie of her posing up a storm in a racy red dress and captioned it with some revealing words: '2025 challenge. Take 500 virginities. 'Get railed by 1000 people in total.' Annie then said interested parties could apply directly to her and she would be reviewing their suitability to be one of the chosen men. It comes after the blonde revealed she had successfuly achieved her 2024 goal of having intimate relations with 600 men across this year. In September, Annie took to social media to call for participants to enter her '600 people challenge'. Annie waited for the test results while surrounded by her friends and explained: 'Two lines is positive' Moments later the Gold Coast-based content creator began cheering and yelling: 'I'm baby free. Now we can really celebrate' Annie was looking to double her previous record and took applications from fans who wanted to be one of her 600 sexual partners. The Gold Coast-based content creator received over 2000 applications and took lots of time sorting them. Annie also claimed she would be prioritising applicants in Melbourne and the Gold Coast because she will be in those locations, but said she will retain all applications for future reference. Applicants were required to upload a photo of themselves and to link to their Instagram account. In May, she revealed one of her lover's ex-girlfriends once broke into his house and allegedly assaulted her when they were caught in bed together. However, several of Annie's fans accused her in June of making up her racy sex stories for likes, which she bluntly denied. Annie also recently said she'd love to film an Australian-made series about her globe-trotting travels with her mother and her family's unique approach to her chosen career. 'I'm not looking to be on an existing reality show, I think my mum and I should have our own reality show,' Annie exclusively told Daily Mail Australia. The adult content creator, who's based between Melbourne and the Gold Coast, claims to be in the top 0.02 per cent of earners on a popular adult subscription-based website, after four years in the business. Ice Spice has apologised after her set at Wildlands Festival in Brisbane was cut to just five minutes. The 25-year-old rapper played the festival in three different locations, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, but her New Year's Eve set was a disaster after her microphone was cut off at the start of her third song due to the festival's strict curfew. Ice Spice was due onstage at 10.30pm for a 30-minute set, but she didn't end up coming out until 10:55pm, according to attendees. She managed to perform Deli, Princess Diana, and part of In Ha Mood. Addressing her lateness during her set at the Perth edition on Saturday, Ice Spice said: 'I'm sorry guys, surely yall can forgive me.' Referring to her Nicki Minaj collaboration Barbie World, she quipped: 'It was my birthday, and it takes a long time to look like a Barbie.' Ice Spice has apologised after her set at Wildlands Festival in Brisbane was cut to just five minutes (pictured in October 2024) The festivals organisers explained that they needed to stick to timings to ensure they could lead the countdown to the New Year and wrap the event up at 12.30am. In a comment posted to Instagram after facing a backlash from disgruntled festivalgoers, Wildlands said: 'We understand that Ice Spice's delayed arrival caused some disappointment.' 'Managing a stacked festival means that we have to be extremely firm with set times. We had a strict curfew of 12:30 and need to ensure that the final act went on stage on time, so everyone could enjoy the New Years Eve countdown.' Journalist Brenton Larney was in attendance and told The Guardian: 'At 11.01pm they gave her an extra minute they cut the mic and you heard the collective sigh from the crowd. Theyd been waiting for a while and they get two songs? 'It was just really disrespectful how she walked off, she was laughing, they tried to give her flowers for her birthday and she just shrugged them off.' As Ice Spice, whose real name is Isis Naija Gaston, had only been allocated a 30-minute slot for her performance, hundreds of revellers stuck around, determined to make the most of the remaining five minutes. Sporting a bright pink jacket and long, signature bright-orange wig, the international star reportedly performed two to three songs before her microphone was cut. Addressing her lateness during her set at the Perth edition on Saturday, Ice Spice said: 'I'm sorry guys, surely yall can forgive me.' (pictured at her Brisbane set last week) A stagehand was seen running over to the artist before the stage was quickly cleared. Ice Spice threw her fans a peace sign and was booed from the stage as she marched from the stage. Revellers paid up to $242 to attend the festival held at Brisbane Showgrounds after some travelled six hours to see the rapper perform. Dozens of attendees vented their anger online afterwards. 'She is getting paid to show up and perform, probably a lot of money, and she's late? Entitled,' one fumed. Another added: 'Genuine question: does anyone actually like Ice Spice?' A third commented: 'Can someone explain to me how/why artists are late for their sets at a festival? They're usually at the festival all day so like what makes them late?' A fourth added: 'That's embarrassing for Ice Spice, that's what you get for arriving late to the job,' another said. Attendees slammed the artist for being 'entitled' and 'disrespectful' of her fans and the event organisers Other attendees praised festival organisers Untitled Group for how it handled the situation. 'Honestly iconic of the organisers to enforce the schedule and not just let her lateness make everything else run later,' one wrote. Another added: 'She's disrespectful, so good on Wildlands.' A third wrote: 'Them pulling the plug on her was iconic.' Others called for Ice Spice to be dropped from upcoming Wildlands festivals in Perth and Adelaide this weekend 'Ice Spice gonna be late for every single set in Australia lmao take her off the line-up,' one said. Another added: 'Drop her for Perth wildlands and give her spot to an Aussie artist. A third wrote: 'Tell Ice Spice to go home, Perth doesn't need her.' Organiser, Untitled Group - the same team behind the Beyond the Valley festival, had touted Wildlands as the 'very best audio and visual experience'. Other artists included Australian DJ Fisher, electronic duo Chase & Status, and German DJ Marlon Hoffstadt. It's understood Gaston was similarly late for her set at the Beyond the Valley festival in Victoria last Saturday. Organisers were forced to quickly rearrange the schedule so she could perform. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Untitled Group and Ice Spice for comment. A former McDonald's chef has revealed a secret hack to upgrading a burger free of charge. Illinois-based chef Mike Haracz recommended McDonald's customers make a special request for the restaurant chain's burger bun. Haracz stated in a recent TikTok video that fans need to order a Double Cheeseburger or McDouble and request a steamed bun. 'I know you're going to love it, and you're going to say to yourself "Why have I never tried this steamed bun hack before,"' Haracz said. 'In the past, I would have said such a thing was impossible because you don't mess with perfection,' food critic Moriah House wrote for The Takeout. 'But after watching a TikTok by @chefmikeharacz, my worldview has changed.' As of now, the only fan-favorite McDonald's sandwich that comes with a steamed bun is the Filet-O-Fish. The process of steaming a McDonald's sandwich bun is simpler than customers may have imagined. Former McDonald's chef Mike Haracz recommended McDonald's customers to ask for a steamed bun when ordering a burger Another former McDonald's employee said on TikTok that the Filet-O-Fish bun is kept in a steamer for 11 seconds in a 2022 video. House confirmed that it only takes 'a few seconds' for employees to steam the bun. 'When making a Filet-O-Fish, McDonald's sticks the bun into a steamer drawer for a few seconds,' House wrote. 'This simple process transforms the bun into a warm cloud of deliciousness, perfectly primed for a burger patty, fish filet, or whatever filling your heart desires.' She added that steaming the bun would mean customers wouldn't have to worry about 'dry, stale bread' getting stuck in the roof of their mouths. Despite the hack's simplicity, TikTok users who watched Haracz's 2023 video admitted they were nervous about requesting a steamed bun. 'I'm too scared to ask for this at my McDonald's,' a TikToker admitted after watching the former corporate chef's video. 'Another commenter wrote: 'I feel like I'm going to get a loogie on my burger with a request like that.' The Filet-O-Fish sandwich is currently the only McDonald's sandwich in the US that comes with a steamed bun A few TikTokers claimed they've requested a steamed bun before and were satisfied with the results. 'We always do order it like that delish -and ask for no salt on fries to get them fresh,' wrote a McDonald's customer. Others insisted their local McDonald's restaurants would never accept the steamed bun request and that they were happy just to receive their correct order. Multiple viewers claiming to be McDonald's employees insisted they'd never received the request or had an interest in trying out the hack. Some of them also claimed that employees at their local McDonald's restaurants never steamed buns because the machine would 'always be broken.' The Double Cheeseburger Haracz suggested customers use is part of the new Buy One, Add One for $1 deal on McDonald's new McValue Platform. McDonald's launched the McValue Platform on January 7, which is available to use at all its locations nationwide. McDonald's $5 Meal Deal comes with a choice between a McChicken or McDouble with small fries, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, and a small soft drink The platform also comes with the popular $5 Meal Deal and comes with a choice between a McChicken or McDouble with small fries, 4-piece Chicken McNuggets, and a small soft drink. Actor and WWE superstar John Cena recently partnered with the fast food empire to become its 'McValue ambassador.' 'I'll admit - it's tough to choose between some of my favorites sometimes, but now I don't have to,' Cena said via January 7 press release. 'The fact that fans can mix and match with the new McValue menu to get great deals on the food they love is going to be an absolute game-changer.' Travelers flying out of John F Kennedy no longer have the privilege of enjoying a luxurious perk at the American Express lounge. American Express (Amex) confirmed it removed the Equinox Body Lab from the Centurion Lounge in Terminal 4 before the holiday season. The Equinox Body Lab offered lounge members the chance to enjoy activities like yoga and meditation sessions before their flights. The credit card company replaced the Body Lab with a full-service coffee bar dubbed Blue Roast by American Express. The company first added the Blue Roast bar to its lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in 2023. 'Given the popularity of the "Blue Roast by American Express" full-service coffee bar in the Centurion Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, we recently opened a second location in the Centurion Lounge at John F. Kennedy airport,' an Amex spokesperson said in a statement to DailyMail.com. 'Guests can order a variety of complimentary espresso beverages, cold brew, and seasonal specialty coffee drinks as well as smoothies and healthy bites such as avocado toast and chia pudding.' American Express (Amex) removed the Equinox Body Lab from its Centurion Lounge in JFK and replaced it with the Blue Roast by American Express Amex also has a Blue Roast by American Express coffee bar at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) Equinox is a fitness company that operates over 300 locations in the US, UK, and Canada. Amex and Equinox began a partnership in 2020 when the credit card company began offering statement credit of up to $25 a month for eligible cardholders. The two-story JFK Centurion Lounge opened its doors in 2020 and included the Equinox Body Lab. It was the first Equinox Body Lab to ever be in the company's airport lounges. Besides yoga and meditation, members could participate in stretching sessions through the Variis by Equinox (now Equinox+) app and use vibro-acoustic chairs. The Body Lab at JFK was available to all Amex Centurion Lounge members ages 18 or older. Despite the closure, Amex continues to offer up to $300 in annual statement credits for eligible Equinox Fitness Club monthly membership fees or digital memberships. Amex lounge members are required to own at least one qualified card, such as the Platinum Card, the Amex Centurion Card, and the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex Card. The two-story JFK Centurion Lounge opened its doors in 2020 and included the Equinox Body Lab Before entering the lounge, members are required to provide their card, boarding pass confirming their travel date, and an ID. All members are allowed to purchase guest passes for two travelers at most that cost between $30 and $50 per guest. Any members' guests under the age of two will be allowed in free of charge. Qualified members and guests who enter the JFK lounge will have access to premium bars, a digital library, and high-speed internet. They will also have access to printers and copiers, flight monitors, televisions, showers, and premium food. The JFK Centurion Lounge is located at Terminal 4 and is open between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm seven days a week. Amex was notably the first credit card company to open an airport lounge after debuting a lounge at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas in 2013. Today, there are 30 successful Amex Centurion Lounges in airports worldwide. Amex Platinum cardholders are allowed to access all 30 Amex Centurion Lounges worldwide The company quietly made noticeable changes in 2024 to its card rules and lounge entry organization. Amex recently introduced a digital waitlist that allows qualified cardholders to enter the line for access to any of its lounges in the US. Those members will receive a notification when they're allowed to enter the lounge and receive 15 minutes to check in. Amex had already been facing backlash due to its drop in points value in the years since the Covid-19 pandemic. The backlash grew in August 2024 after eBay customers were no longer allowed to pay for products using Amex cards. In a statement, American Express said that eBay's cost to accept AmEx cards is 'comparable to what eBay pays for similar cards on other networks' and that AmEx cardmembers usually spend double at eBay what is spent on other networks. Despite the issues, US News & World Report revealed its Delta SkyMiles Blue card had the best credit card offer of January 2025. A bill signed by President Joe Biden on Sunday will soon bring higher social security payments to millions. The Social Security Fairness Act will boost the social security checks of around three million current and former public employees. Before the bill, firefighters, police officers, nurses and other public sector workers had their benefits reduced if they also received a pension not covered by Social Security. 'Americans who have worked hard all their life to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity, that's the entire purpose of the Social Security system,' Biden said at the bill signing ceremony at the White House. The bill revoked two earlier provisions - the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset - that limited benefits for recipients if they received retirement payments from other sources. Eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision is set to boost monthly payments to the affected beneficiaries by an average of $360 by December 2025, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates. Ending the Government Pension Offset will increase monthly benefits by an average of $700 by December for the 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. President Joe Biden signed the The Social Security Fairness Act on Sunday The change is due to payments made from January 2024 onwards, meaning the government will backdate checks to affected recipients. Like other social security payments they will increase over time with the annual cost of living increase (COLA). Proponents of the law, including Edward Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said it rights a historic wrong. However, others say it will add further pressures to the Social Security system which is already under severe strain. The annual Social Security bill, which includes retirement, Medicare and disability benefits for 72.5 million recipients, costs the government $1.5 trillion a year. It is also under pressure to reform as the number of recipients and annual cost is rising faster than the income sustaining it. In fact, a recent report states that without change, Social Security will run out of money by 2035. Kelly, on the other hand, said the policy was 'a 40-year wrong,' and his members were 'excited to see the change.' Nurses are among those who will see higher Social Security payment as a result of the change Edward Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said members were excited to see the change 'Now firefighters who get paid very little can now afford to actually retire,' Kelly said. He added that the previous 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.' 'Over two million public service workers will finally be able to access the Social Security benefits they spent their careers paying into,' Lee Saunders, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees labor union said in a statement. 'Many will finally be able to enjoy retirement after a lifetime of service.' Trade Unions on Monday pressed for increasing minimum EPFO pension 5 times to Rs 5,000 per month, immediate constitution of the 8th Pay Commission and higher taxes on super rich in the upcoming 2025-26 Budget. In their customary pre-budget meeting with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, trade union leaders also demanded an increase in income tax exemption limit to Rs 10 lakh per annum, social security scheme for gig workers, and restoration of old pension scheme (OPS) for government employees. The Budget for 2025-26 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. Talking to reporters after the meeting TUCC National General Secretary S P Tiwari said the government should stop all privatisation and corporatisation of PSUs and impose an additional 2 per cent tax on super rich to fund social security for informal workers. Tiwari also demanded that agriculture workers be extended social security and their minimum wages should also be fixed. Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh Organising Secretary (Northern Zone) Pawan Kumar said that the minimum pension under EPS-95 should be increased from Rs 1,000 per month to Rs 5,000 monthly as a first step and subsequently linked to the VDA (Variable Dearness Allowance). He also suggested that the threshold for Income Tax exemption be raised to Rs 10 lakh. Also, income from pension should be exempted from tax. Kumar also demanded that the 8th Pay Commission to revise salary structure of government employees be constituted immediately. His arrest, far from quelling resistance, galvanised the nation, showcasing the power of non-violence as a tool for liberation and freedom On January 4, 1932, Mahatma Gandhi was arrested after the Congress Party had decided to resume a civil disobedience movement in the wake of emergency measures imposed by the British government. The arrest marked a pivotal juncture in Indias struggle for independence and left an indelible impact on global movements for justice and equality. Mahatma Gandhis philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience not only reshaped Indias freedom struggle but also served as a blueprint for resistance movements worldwide. The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930, was a landmark moment in the Indian nationalist struggle. It was launched with the historic Salt March (Dandi Yatra) where Gandhi defied British-imposed salt taxes, a symbol of colonial exploitation foot-marching from Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat to the river Dandi, a journey of 241 miles. This movement aimed to undermine British authority through non-violent means such as boycotting British goods, refusing to pay taxes, and disobeying oppressive laws. By the early 1930s, the movement had gained mass participation but faced severe repression from the British administration. Lord Willingdon, the Viceroy of India, adopted a policy of suppression, seeing Gandhis leadership as a threat to the stability of British rule in India. On January 4, 1932, Gandhi was arrested under the Defense of India Act for his role in perpetuating civil disobedience - after it was decided by the Congress Party to resume a civil disobedience movement in the wake of emergency measures imposed by the British government in the form of a series of Viceroys ordinances.The arrest of Gandhi had immediate repercussions in India, sparking a wave of protests and acts of defiance. Historian Bipan Chandra in his book Indias Struggle for Independence; (Penguin Books, 1989), writes that Gandhis detention was a turning point that revitalized the waning momentum of the movement The arrest was perceived as an attack on Indias moral and political conscience, galvanising people from all walks of life to resist British rule. Women, in particular, stepped into leadership roles during this period. Kasturba Gandhi, Gandhis wife and Sarojini Naidu led marches and protests, ensuring that the movement did not lose steam. Acts of civil disobedience, such as the refusal to pay land revenue and the boycott of British institutions, intensified across the country. The arrest also amplified the moral and symbolic power of Gandhis leadership. His willingness to endure imprisonment demonstrated his steadfast commitment to non-violence and truth. The Indian masses responded with unprecedented solidarity, reinforcing the idea that freedom could be achieved through peaceful resistance. Gandhis arrest in 1932 was widely reported in the global press, drawing attention to the Indian struggle for independence. In Britain, the arrest sparked wide debate. While the colonial government justified the move as a necessary measure to maintain law and order, prominent intellectuals like Bertrand Russell and George Orwell criticized the repression. Orwell in his book As I Please: Essays (1943); Tribune Publishing remarked, The paradox of Gandhis imprisonment lay in the fact that a man advocating peace was treated as a threat to the empire. The arrest also resonated with leaders of other anti-colonial and civil rights movements. Years later, Martin Luther King Jr. would cite Gandhis arrest as an example of how moral authority could triumph over systemic oppression. King said, Gandhis life and sacrifices teach us that non-violence is not only a method but a philosophy of life,, adding, The non-violent resistance of Gandhi was the guiding light of our struggle for justice in America. Gandhis arrest became a beacon for oppressed peoples worldwide, inspiring movements for freedom and justice. Nelson Mandela, who would later lead the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, credited Mahatma Gandhi as the pioneer of non-violent resistance. In his autobiography Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela wrote, The spirit of defiance Gandhi embodied in India was equally relevant in South Africas fight against apartheid. Historians and political theorists have studied Gandhis detention in 1932 as a case study in the dynamics of resistance and power. British historian Judith M. Brown, in her seminal work Gandhi: Prisoner of Hope (1989) also points out that Gandhis imprisonment highlighted the moral contradictions of British colonialism. By incarcerating Gandhi, the British sought to delegitimize him, but instead they exposed their own vulnerability to ethical critique. International British historian Erik Hobsbawm situates Gandhis arrest within the broader context of anti-colonial movements. In The Age of Extremes: The Short Twentieth Century, (1914-1991), Hobsbawm notes that The imprisonment of Gandhi was not merely an Indian event; it marked the erosion of imperial authority on a global scale. Today, as the world grapples with challenges like systemic injustice, racial inequality, and climate change, Gandhis principles of civil disobedience remain a guiding light. Some movements such as Extinction Rebellion (a UK-founded global environmental movement and Black Lives Matter draw on the strategies of non-violent protest that Gandhi exemplified. Mahatma Gandhis example serves as a reminder that moral courage and non-violent resistance are humanitys most potent tools for building a just and equitable society. (The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti; views are personal) The iconic Gorkha Brigade faces an uncertain future with the freeze on Nepal domiciled Gorkha recruitment under the Agnipath scheme The press and media are flooded with stories about Nepal Domiciled Gorkha soldiers and their imperiled future in the Indian Army under the Agnipath scheme. With the last NDG in Indias Gorkha Brigade likely to retire around 2045-50, it is possible two Gorkha soldiers could confront each other in Doklam, or elsewhere along the LAC should NDGs start joining the PLA. Traditionally, they have joined the British Army since the early 19th century, later the Singapore Police and Brunei Army and still later, the French Foreign Legion and the Russian Army (around 15,000 according to Al Jazeera news). Soldiering is in their blood with the first choice always and every time, the British Army has pampered as well as exploited them. On 10 November 2024, Kathmandu Post carried a front-page picture of impeccably smart Gorkhas at an attestation parade in the UK. Three brothers in a Nepali family could still be in British, Indian and Nepalese armies in that order of preference. But Britain does not recruit Indian Domiciled Gorkhas. NDGs ceased joining the Indian Army for 5 years rendering hopelessly bleak the future of the Gorkha Brigade and a strategic glue that binds India and Nepal.Last year, in November and December, Indian and Nepalese Army Chiefs who became honorary Generals in each others army spent a week in the others country and were made much of. Last week, 1/11 Gorkha Rifles commanded by Col JP Singh went for joint training with the Sri Sri Jung battalion of the Nepal Army at Saljhandi near the border town of Butawal. (With PLA Nepal Army does only platoon-level joint training restricted to Kathmandu Valley). No weapons are carried by either contingent as the host country provides them. No two sovereign armies and their Chiefs have such unique rapport. Despite the shared history, geography and historic links between the two countries and their armies, recruitment of NDGs has been frozen since India took the unilateral decision in June 2022 to change the terms of engagement that Kathmandu says violated Treaty arrangements. Curiously both countries have remained silent at the political and military levels. Indias seniormost officer, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan from 11 Gorkha Rifles has been approached by several Gorkha veterans to try to break the stalemate but he is loath to approach PM/RM/NSA saying that the government has taken a political decision. QED It is his responsibility to raise the decision-making process to the next level as other Army Chiefs in the past have done in the national interest. During the economic blockade in 2015, Gen Dalbir Singh was able to persuade PM Narendra Modi and FM Sushma Swaraj that prolonging the blockade would adversely affect the livelihood of Indian Army Gorkha ex-servicemen and families of serving soldiers in Nepal which in turn would impact bilateral relations. The blockade was ended but bilateral ties were seriously disturbed. After King Gyanendra conducted the Palace coup in 2004, India decided to stop the supply of lethal armaments to the Nepal Army which was fighting the Maoists. Then Army Chief, Gen JJ Singh, recommended against it. In a slanging match between MoD and EAM, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh upheld the embargo. On the other hand, Siachen, Army Chiefs had prevailed in convincing Singh not to budge over any withdrawal from or concessions on Siachen. In 1986, during the Gorkhaland movement in North Bengal, as a senior Gorkha officer who had been deployed there, I was invited to a meeting by Principal Secretary to PM, Sarla Grewal along with Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Rawat for discussion on the violence and our response. In the higher direction of war in 1971, PM Indira Gandhi consulted Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw at every stage for planning and conduct of battle. In 1975, then Army Chief, Gen Gopal Bewoor, 11 Gorkha Rifles convinced Mrs Gandhi of the negative impact of stopping the recruitment of NDGs. So this is not the first time that the absurd idea of ending NDG recruitment has come up. But this time government decided on NDGs that CDS accepted..Lt Gen Sanjeev Chauhan is the senior officer and President Gorkha Brigade which meets annually in February in a unique assembly of seven Gorkha regiments to discuss professional matters. On recruitment of NDGs, they too are stuck at the Army Chief/CDS level. Two years ago, I wrote a letter on strategic loss accruing from altered rules of NDG recruitment to the Principal Secretary to the PM, PK Mishra. No acknowledgement nor reply was received. Service Chiefs in the past have been willing and able to advise political authority on military matters. The consultative process has stopped with this government. On December 15, 2024, while inaugurating Indias World magazine, Foreign Minister Jaishankar conspicuously omitted to mention national security or the military component of international relations as part of Indias foreign policy vision. Answering a question last year on why no NDG recruitment he said foreign policy is determined by Indias national interest and not that of any other country, implying Nepal. Indias national interests in terms of defence and security are entwined with those of Nepal with whom New Delhi claims a special relationship which Kathmandu mildly reaffirms. It was Modi who said in Nepals Parliament in 2014 that India has fought no war where Nepalese blood was not shed. India-Nepal relations are written in blood. (The writer, a retired Major General, was Commander, IPKF South, Sri Lanka, and founder member of the Defence Planning Staff, currently the Integrated Defence Staff. The views are personal) As the 2025 assembly elections approach, the big question remains: Can Kishor truly reshape Bihars political future, or is his role simply to disrupt opposition unity? Prashant Kishor, a name synonymous with political strategy, has made his debut in Bihar politics with the launch of his party, Jansuraj. Drawing an analogy to a potter, Kishor likens his work to shaping the best clay into something meaningful, declaring, We are bringing forward the best people of society. My role is to make this party win. I am in the role of a sutradhar (narrator); I have announced after the formation of the party that I will not run it. The party people will run the party. This declaration, however, has done little to quell speculations about his aspirations. Rumors abound that Kishor is vying for the post of Chief Minister, a claim he repeatedly denies. I am not contesting the elections, he insists. I do not feel like contesting, but if the party decides that only I can secure a seat, then it will be a collective decision. I am not bigger than the party. Despite his assertions, Kishors entry into Bihar politics has stirred discussions about the impact of Jansuraj on the states political landscape, particularly in the context of the 2025 assembly elections. Questions loom: will his party weaken the NDA or the INDIA alliance? Political analysts suggest that Kishor, with his background as a strategist for both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, could be a disruptive force. Some even speculate that he might be a BJP-backed pawn, designed to fragment opposition votes, a claim fueled by his apparent inability to align with the Congress or RJD leadership. Kishors criticisms of Nitish Kumars governance have been particularly sharp. He has lambasted Kumars leadership style, though his past affiliations with the BJP have also fueled skepticism. Adding to the intrigue, JDU leaders have dismissed Kishors efforts as insignificant. JDU, meanwhile, continues to champion causes like the nationwide caste census and the One Nation, One Election policy. It also plans to hold a workers meeting in Nalanda on January 20, 2025, to gauge its position before the elections. JDUs reliance on caste-based politics, particularly its focus on Mahadalits, underscores its strategy for retaining relevance. Recognizing the centrality of caste and community dynamics in Bihar politics, Kishor has crafted his approach accordingly. His first major move was targeting the Muslim and backward caste vote banks, which collectively account for 53.8 per cent of the electorate. To solidify his position, he announced plans to field more candidates from Muslim and extremely backward communities in the upcoming elections. The appointment of a Dalit as Jansurajs first working president further underscored this strategy. This decision, however, drew criticism, with some perceiving it as an overt counter to JDUs Mahadalit card. Kishors emphasis on Dalit representation, though a significant gesture, was met with resistance from sections of the political spectrum. Before launching Jansuraj, Kishor spent two years traveling across Bihar, conducting a padayatra and engaging in public dialogues in villages and towns. His campaign drew heavily from the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, echoing a narrative of grassroots empowerment. However, his advocacy for ending Bihars liquor prohibitiona policy closely associated with Nitish Kumars governancehas sparked controversy. Critics argue that this stance contradicts Gandhian principles and exposes Kishor to allegations of opportunism. Despite the criticisms, Kishors efforts signal a genuine attempt to address Bihars long-standing issues. Bihar has long grappled with challenges like unemployment, poor infrastructure, and rising crime. Kishor positions Jansuraj as a platform to tackle these problems, but whether he can deliver remains to be seen. Kishors focus on marginalised communities, grassroots dialogue, and inclusive leadership sets a distinct tone. However, his political credibility and ability to translate ideas into action will be closely scrutinized. As the assembly elections approach, the political battlefield in Bihar is becoming increasingly dynamic. JDUs focus on its traditional voter base and initiatives like the caste census may clash directly with Jansurajs appeal to similar demographics. Meanwhile, speculation about Kishors BJP connections and his critique of Nitish Kumar suggest that his presence will influence alliances and electoral strategies across the board. Prashant Kishors entry into Bihar politics marks a significant shift. By forming Jansuraj, he has sought to disrupt the status quo and present a new alternative. However, whether he can truly emerge as a transformative leader or will merely fragment votes remains the critical question. (The writer is a senior journalist; views are personal) Hatha Yoga emphasises holistic well-being, nurturing the body, mind and spirit in harmony Hatha Yoga lays emphasis on the overall well-being of the body while nurturing the mind and spirit of the seeker. The bedrock of this yogic technique is strongly based on the traditional eight limbs of yoga as expounded by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras. These are 10 quotes on yoga by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar which help one to appreciate the depth of yoga. 1. Like a flower bud, human life has the potential to blossom fully. Blossoming of human potential to fullness is yoga.Yoga is a discipline that is both gentle and powerful for uniting body, breath and mind in awareness. It integrates elements from all the different paths of yoga where you get a glimpse of Raj Yoga, Ashtanga or Hatha Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga as well Gnana Yoga making the yogic experience wholesome. 2. Yoga brings knowledge, passion and action together. Yoga is not just doing some body-twisting postures it is experiencing the union of the body, mind and breath. 3. Yoga is a study of life, study of your body, breath, mind, intellect, memory and ego; study of your inner faculties. The practice of yoga has been known for centuries to produce benefits in the areas of health, mental clarity and spiritual connection. 4. Withdraw your senses from the object to its source, then the union happens, then the yoga happens. One must learn the correct way of doing asanas and pranayama. 5. Peace is our very nature, and yoga leads you to inner peace. Yoga teaches one how to pay attention to what one experiences inside and what is the state of mind. Declutter the mental chatter. 6. The purpose of yoga is to stop suffering even before it arises. Yoga is a holistic way of energising and integrating mind, body and spirit. 7. Yoga is not just weight-loss programme; it is a science to make one feel lighter. It helps to lose the mental stuff of anger, jealousy, hatred, greed, etc. During the Sri Sri Yoga basic programme that is taught in 10 to 12 hours at the Art of Living Retreat, certified teachers help to experience the real depth of yoga that brings benefits not just at the physical level but at the mental, emotional and spiritual level too. 8. One of the rules of yoga is to cultivate the practice of being happy. Everybody ultimately wants to be happy. But what is real happiness? The wise say that shifting gears from the pursuit of happiness to being happy makes happiness a journey rather than the destination, which is the key. 9. The wisdom of yoga transforms one from arrogance to self-confidence; meekness to humility; from dependence to a realisation of interdependence. One may wonder if yoga is a self-help programme. Taught at various levels, yoga programmes connect one with ancient wisdom and nourish ones inner beauty as a human being. 10. The wisdom of yoga transforms one from craving freedom to recognition of the unboundedness, from limited ownership to oneness with the whole. Does it seem incredulous? But yes, this is indeed the real potential of yoga. Simple yogic postures, rejuvenating breathing techniques, and blissful meditations integrated with the invaluable ancient wisdom of yoga put one on the path of genuine life transformation. As a yoga explorer with over a decade and a half of experience, I can state that all fellow explorers can dive deeper and experience what it takes to be a real yogi (or yogini). (The writer is the CEO of Chhattisgarh East Railway Ltd. and Chhattisgarh East West Railway Ltd. He is a faculty of the Art of Living) A 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck near one of Tibets holiest cities on Tuesday, killing at least 95 people and injuring 130 others with tremors also shaking buildings and forcing people to run to the streets in neighbouring Nepal. According to regional disaster relief headquarters, the quake jolted Dingri County in Xigaze in Tibet Autonomous Region in China at 9:05 am Tuesday (Beijing Time). The US Geological Service, however, put the quakes magnitude at 7.1. At least 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 p.M. Tuesday (local time), state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out rescue efforts to carry out relief and rescue operations in the affected areas. Xi ordered utmost efforts to treat the injured and urged efforts to prevent secondary disasters, properly resettle affected residents, and handle the aftermath work effectively. Following the quake, China Earthquake Administration launched a level-II emergency service response and sent a work team to the site to assist with disaster relief efforts. Xizang Autonomous Region also issued a level-II emergency response to the quake. Some 22,000 disaster relief items, including cotton tents, cotton coats, quilts and folding beds, together with special relief materials for high-altitude and frigid areas, have been dispatched by central authorities to the quake-hit area. Over 1,500 local firefighters and rescue workers have also been dispatched to the ground. Xigaze also known as Shigaste is close to the border with India. Shigatse is considered one of the holiest cities of Tibet. It is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, a key figure of Tibetan Buddhism whose spiritual authority is second only to the Dalai Lama. The epicentre was located in Tsogo Township of Dingri County, which has a population of approximately 6,900 people within a 20-km radius. There are 27 villages within this area. Official data show Dingri County has a population of over 61,000 people. The epicentre is located 90 km North-East of Lobutse in the Khumbu Himalayan range of North-East Nepal. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, according to a report issued by the China Earthquake Networks Centre, state-run Xinhua reported. In his message, President Xi said it is essential to strengthen earthquake monitoring and early warning, promptly allocate emergency rescue supplies, expedite the repair of damaged infrastructure, ensure that the basic needs of residents are met, and guarantee a safe and warm winter for all. China refers to Tibet as Xizang, part of the Himalayan region. The Tibetan plateau is known to be prone to heavy earthquakes as it sits right over the place where the tectonic Eurasian and Indian plates meet, often colliding with huge force. Shigaste also suffered significant damage in the massive 8.1-magnitude quake that devastated Nepal in 2015. Eighteen people were killed and 55 injured in the Shigaste region when a massive 8.1-magnitude quake hit Nepal and the wider Himalayan in 2015. Meanwhile, in Nepal, the strong earthquake forced people to run out of their houses. It was felt in Kavrepalanchwok, Sindhupalanchok Dhading and Solukhumbu districts as well. Many people came out of their houses due to panic in Kathmandu. People witnessed buildings, trees and electric wires on the streets shaking for some time. However, a Nepal Police spokesperson says that so far they have not received any information regarding any human causality. An official at Shankhuwasabha District Administrative Office said a two-storey building made of stone was damaged in Kimathanka Rural Municipality of the district due to the earthquake. As the epicentre lies in Tibet, stronger tremors were felt by people living in Northern Nepal, Nepal Police spokesperson Bishwo Adhikari said. At least half a dozen tremors with magnitude ranging from 4 to 5 were also recorded within a time span of an hour around 7 am, according to the USGS report. The tremor was strong enough to terrorise people in Nepal, who recalled the 2015 great earthquake that killed 9,000 people. Several places in Bihar were also jolted by a 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck near the Tibet-Nepal border on Tuesday morning. The quake with its epicentre 93 km northeast of Lobuche, near the Nepal-Tibet border, occurred at 6.35 am. The earthquake, centred at a depth of 10 kilometres, caused tremors in Bihar and several parts of north India. According to the Bihar Disaster Management Department, tremors were felt in Patna, Madhubani, Sheohar, Munger, Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, Katihar, Darbhanga, West Champaran, East Champaran and several other districts along the India-Nepal border. The tremors triggered panic among people in Patna with citizens rushing out of their residences as a precautionary measure. People in Katihar, Purnea, Sheohar, Darbhanga and Samastipur also came out on the streets when the quake took place. Amid the detection of cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, the Centre has advised States to step up surveillance for respiratory illnesses including ILI and SARI to tackle any exigency, and create awareness about the prevention of transmission of the pathogen which is fast spreading in China. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava on Monday chaired a virtual meeting with states and union territories to take stock of respiratory illnesses and HMPV cases in the country and public health measures for their management, a health ministry statement said. However, the Centre has not issued any advisory yet. The Union Health Secretary said that there is no cause of concern for the public as HMPV has been present globally since 2001, the statement said, adding that States have been asked to strengthen and review the ILI/SARI surveillance. The States have been advised to enhance information, education and communication (IEC) and awareness among people regarding the prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures such as washing hands often with soap and water; not touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoiding close contact with people exhibiting symptoms of the disease; and covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, said the statement. HMPV is a globally recognised respiratory virus. It is a viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections in people of all age groups. During the meeting, it was noted that the IDSP data does not indicate any unusual rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illnesses (SARI) cases anywhere in the country. All the detected patients dont have any foreign travel history, suggesting that the virus is indigenous, This is also corroborated by the ICMR sentinel surveillance data, it said. Srivastava reiterated that an increase in respiratory illnesses is usually seen during the winter months and that the country is well prepared for any potential surge in such cases, the statement said. Former chief scientist with the WHO, Soumya Swaminathan said on X platform that the virus is nothing to panic about. Its a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild. 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 if there are severe symptoms. No deaths reported in India so far, she added. HMPV is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages, particularly during the winter and early spring months. The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most patients recover on their own. The meeting convened by the Union Health Secretary was attended by Health Research Department Secretary Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General of Health Services Dr Atul Goel, experts from National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, (IDSP), Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Virology (NIV) and State Surveillance Units of IDSP, said the statement. With an announcement of the 70 assembly seats in Delhi in a single phase on February 5 and the votes will be counted on February 8 by the Election Commission (EC), the stage is set for a fierce triangular contest between the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress. The battle lines are drawn between Prime Minister Narendra Modis developmental model versus the freebies model touted by the AAP chief and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is eyeing a hat-trick, having swept the 2015 and 2020 elections with 67 and 62 seats, respectively. The AAP faces anti-incumbency, corruption allegations and an aggressive BJP in its bid to assume power for a third successive term. The Congress will be keen to regain the national Capital. Although the Congress and the AAP contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections together as part of the INDIA bloc, they will be competing separately in the upcoming Assembly polls. Announcing the dates for the Assembly polls in Delhi, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said It is a single-phase election We have deliberately kept polling on a Wednesday so more people come out to vote like we did in Maharashtra. The entire election process will be completed by February 10. With the ECs announcement of the election schedule, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is now in effect and will remain so until the conclusion of the polls. The last date to file nominations is January 17 and the scrutiny of nominations will be done by January 18. Candidates will be able to withdraw their nominations till January 20. Of the 70 seats in Delhi, 58 are general and 12 reserved. According to the electoral roll, Delhi has 1.55 crore voters -- 83.49 lakh men, 71.74 lakh women and 1,261 transgender persons. There are 25.89 lakh young voters, 2.08 lakh first-time voters, and 830 above the age of 100, Kumar said. More than 13,000 polling stations will be set up in Delhi, he said. Kumar has urged candidates and political party leaders to refrain from making remarks against women and involving children during poll campaigns. He was asked about the recent comment made by BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. In 2020, the elections were announced on January 6, polling was held on February 8, and votes were counted on February 11. The 70-member Assemblys term concludes on February 23, necessitating elections before that to form a new House. Except for the Lok Sabha polls last year when AAP and Congress joined hands and together got an impressive vote share of 43.1%, the two parties-despite having a similar vote bank-have always contested separately. However, while AAPs vote share, since its maiden election in 2013, was constantly on the higher side, the number of people voting for Congress decreased significantly in the last decade. With its surprise performance in 2013, when it got 29% of the total votes polled and won 28 of the 70 seats, AAP dug into Congress vote bank, pushing the grand old party to third position with 24.5% votes and just eight seats. In subsequent assembly polls in 2015 and 2020, Congress vote share further fell to 9.7% and 4.3%, respectively, while AAP won a massive mandate with 54.6% and 53.6% vote share. The BJP has been able to improve its assembly election vote share during the decade of the AAPs rise in Delhi. It got 33.1% vote share in 2013, 32.2% in 2015 and 38.5% in 2020. However, its number of seats drastically went down from 31 in 2015 to 3 in 2015 and 8 in 2020. In the last three Lok Sabha polls, it has made a clean sweep in Delhi, bagging vote share higher than that of the AAP and Congress combined. BJP is always considered a party of the middle and upper-middle-class people, with the trading community as its staunch supporters, Congress in Delhi-till the 2008 assembly polls when it formed govt in the city for the last time-was known for representing the poor, the Dalit, and the Muslim community. The high-stakes Assembly election will feature a fierce contest between former MP Parvesh Verma, son of the late Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma, Former MP Sandeep Dikshit from Congress and AAP leader and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for the New Delhi seat. Similarly, former MP Ramesh Bidhuri of BJP and Congresss Alka Lamba will face off against Chief Minister Atishi from Kalkaji. The Assembly elections are being seen as a prestige battle for all camps. The BJP is making all-out attempts to come back to power in Delhi after over 25 years focussing on its slogan Parivartan (change) and a targeted campaign against the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP over corruption allegations, relying on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its face yet again. Meanwhile, the BJP, boosted by its clean sweep in the Delhi Lok Sabha polls and thumping victories in Haryana and Maharashtra, has coined the word AAPda (disaster) to launch a blistering attack against the ruling party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parivartan Rally in Rohini last week made the partys intentions clear giving the call Aapda (AAP) nahi sahenge, badal kar rahenge (wont tolerate the disaster (AAP), will bring change). The BJP has an uphill task against the AAP which has a strong support base in the slums, unauthorised colonies, minority-dominated areas, lower middle class localities. It has so far failed to come up with announcements to tackle AAPs promises like honorarium to women and priests. Prime Minister Modi has, however, assured that public welfare schemes of the current government will continue. The AAP, battling a wave of corruption allegations, is pushing hard for a third term, focusing on the announcement of welfare schemes - enhancing the monthly grant to non-tax paying women to Rs 2,100 if voted back to power; healthcare coverage for all Delhi voters over the age of 60 in government as well as some private hospitals. Simiarly, it has also taken recourse to soft Hindutva to nullify the BJPs Chunavi Hindu charge by promising Rs 18,000 monthly compensation to temple priests and gurdwara granthis. Many in AAP have acknowledged that the February 2025 polls are the partys toughest yet. Kejriwal, who stepped down as Chief Minister after he was granted bail in a corruption case, is leading the partys campaign. It also relies on the immense popularity of the free water, free 200 units of power per month, and free bus rides for women schemes. Campaigns like Revdi Par Charcha ensure these benefits remain in public focus, showcasing AAPs consistent voter outreach. Insiders say anti-incumbency looms large, with AAP completing more than a decade in power. Many voters might feel the need for change, which could affect the partys chances. Corruption allegations and arrests of key leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, have tarnished the partys clean image. Leadership transitions and internal rifts, including departure of key figures like Kailash Gahlot, signal instability that could weaken its campaign. The Sheesh Mahal controversy has dented Kejriwals image, with the BJP using it to fuel its campaign against AAP The Congress, unrepresented in the Delhi assembly Since 2015, is desperately trying to gain a foothold in the February 5 elections. To counter AAPs Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojna of a monthly assistance of Rs 2,100 post elections, the Congress has announced Pyaari Didi Yojana where it promised a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to women if voted to power. In this election, all the senior leadership of the state unit have been fielded - Sheila Dikshits son Sandeep Dikshit, Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav, All India Mahila Congress president Alka Lamba, and former Delhi minister Haroon Yusuf. After two consecutive election losses, the partys lower cadres may be short on motivation, which could hinder its campaign efforts. If Congress fails to make any significant gains in this election, it could face the real possibility of being wiped out from the Delhi political landscape. Strong presence of AAP and BJP, along with their well-established support bases, poses a major threat to Congress chances of regaining power. The Congress has fielded former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshits son and two time MP Sandeep Dikshit from New Delhi Seat against Kejriwal. BJP has given ticket to former MP Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma , son of former Chief Miniter Sahib Singh Verma. It has also fielded Alka Lamba against Atishi from Kalkaji.So far, the Delhi Congress has announced 48 candidates for the upcoming elections, with its first list released on December 12 last year and the second on December 24. The three-day Jashn-e-Urdu festival, organised by the Madhya Pradesh Urdu Academy under the Culture Council, concluded with an award ceremony conducted by the Culture Minister and a performance by renowned Kathak exponent Shinjini Kulkarni. The event was wrapped up by Culture Minister Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, who presented awards to the competition winners and honoured the volunteers with certificates. Minister Lodhi expressed his joy about the festival, which embodied the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), a core aspect of Indian culture. He congratulated Nusrat Mehdi, Director of the Urdu Academy, for organising the event. The third day began with a discussion on "Urdu Literature and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam." Manoj Srivastava, Commissioner of the Madhya Pradesh State Election Commission, emphasised that literature should not be confined to religion and highlighted that Urdu literature has always transcended religious boundaries. Mohd Nauman Khan spoke on the universality of Urdu literature, noting its influence across various languages. Abbas Raza Nayar discussed how Urdu poetry promotes humanity and unity, free from communal divisions. The event concluded with a Kathak performance by Shinjini Kulkarni, the ninth generation of the renowned Kalka Bindadin Gharana. Recent performances by Kulkarni, granddaughter of the legendary Pandit Birju Maharaj, suggest that the danseuse is preparing to take Kathak to global audiences in a befitting tribute to the lineage she represents. South Delhi BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri on Monday challenged AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal for a debate on the issue of development in rural Delhi, stating that the former Chief Minister and his party have betrayed Delhi Dehat (rural) area and are constantly lying. Claiming that he will leave politics if Kejriwal proves that his allegations are true, he said, Kejriwal accusing the central government is a situation of 'the thief scolding the police'. Kejriwal did not do any work in the interest of Delhi rural and farmers. Even the promises he made, he did not fulfil them. He said that the proposal to regularize the expanding population of Delhi rural was passed by the Sheila Dikshit government in 2013 and the notification was also issued. The RWAs of the villages were asked to submit their layout plans. Hundreds of layout plans were submitted to the Delhi government but in the meantime Kejriwal's party came to power and till date that decision has not been implemented, Bidhuri added. He said that Kejriwal as well as the current Chief Minister Atishi had promised that the house tax of Delhi rural areas would be waived off but it was not done. The farmers whose land was acquired were given alternative residential plots but the Kejriwal government stopped this scheme. Similarly, the mutation of the names of the heirs of the farmers was also stopped which has been started by the Lieutenant Governor recently after the request of BJP MPs, the senior BJP leader said. Bidhuri reminded that Kejriwal had said that Delhi farmers will be given 50 per cent more MSP on their crops but he did not fulfil this promise either. Farmers were promised free electricity for irrigation but commercial rates of electricity are being charged from them. The Delhi government had to give ownership rights to the landless farmers who were given land under the 20-point program but this government kept suppressing that decision too, he said, adding that the AAP government did not fulfil its promise of giving subsidy to farmers on agricultural equipment and even essential equipment like tractors were declared commercial. The decision to abolish Section 81-A and 33-A could also have been taken at the level of the Delhi government but the Delhi government did not implement it either. < Since the decision to declare villages as urbanized was not taken, these sections remained in force and due to this reason the GDA policy and land pooling policy could not be implemented, he stated. Bidhuri said that Kejriwal and his party have not only treated the rural areas of Delhi step-motherly but also have not allowed the public welfare schemes announced for farmers by the government of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to be implemented. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) commemorated its 78th Foundation Day on Monday by organizing an Industry Meet in Jamshedpur. The event brought together over 100 participants from across Jharkhands large, medium, small, and micro-industrial sectors. Kaushalendra Kumar, Joint Director of BIS, outlined the objectives of the programme, emphasizing the pivotal role of medium and large-scale manufacturers in enhancing stakeholder participation in standard formation. He detailed initiatives such as Standardization Cells, the Annual Programme for Standardization, and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with academic institutions. Kumar also highlighted initiatives like Manak Manthan and the Young Professionals Programme, which support the standards formulation process. BIS certification offers numerous benefits to industries, making our role vital for quality assurance and economic growth, he said. Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury, Chief Guest and Director of the CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML), lauded BISs efforts in promoting quality and innovation. The Foundation Day marks a journey of trust and progress. BIS has set quality benchmarks, helping Indian products gain global recognition and aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, he remarked. Ratan Kumar Mallik, General Manager of Bokaro Steel Plant (SAIL) and Special Guest, highlighted BISs role in synchronizing Indian standards with international norms. BISs focus on quality and safety has significantly contributed to Indias economic growth, he noted. Prof. Mrityunjay Kumar Sinha, Dean of Research and Consultancy at NIT Jamshedpur, underscored the comprehensive scope of BISs standardization efforts. From bedsheets to jewelry, BISs impact is far-reaching. To achieve Indias vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, collaboration between academia, industry, and BIS is crucial, he said. Santokh Singh, Vice President of the Adityapur Small Industries Association (ASIA), discussed BISs role in upgrading local industries. Thanks to BISs continuous improvements, industries in the Adityapur Industrial Area are contributing significantly to building a New India, Singh said. Anjan Kundu, Senior Engineer and Chief Vigilance Officer at IDTR Jamshedpur, spoke about government initiatives supporting entrepreneurship and skill development through training programs. He emphasized that expanding the stakeholder base benefits industries, students, and consumers alike. Prabhu Nath Yadav, Joint Director of BIS, delivered an in-depth presentation covering topics such as the Manak Pravardhak Programme, the SMART Initiative, capacity building, and the process of obtaining BIS certification. He also provided updates on recent Quality Control Orders (QCOs), including those on industrial coke and the Omnibus Technical Regulation. New FM spokesperson Guo Jiakun hosts press briefing Xinhua) 09:13, January 07, 2025 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Punjabs former Chief Minister and senior Punjab BJP leader Capt Amarinder Singh, it seems, is looking for making a comeback to active political engagement after months of relative silence. Capt Amarinder, on Sunday evening, held a critical meeting with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to discuss several pressing issues concerning Punjab, including the ongoing farmers agitation, the states political landscape, and BJPs leadership in the region. The meeting has drawn significant attention, as it comes at a crucial juncture for the BJP in Punjab, where the party has struggled to make significant inroads despite multiple electoral efforts. Capt Amarinder took to social media to announce the meeting, stating that a detailed discussion was held regarding key challenges facing Punjab. Among the key points on discussion table were farmers agitation and Jagjit Singh Dallewals hunger strike; leadership crisis in the states BJP unit; BJPs declining performance in Punjab, among other issues. The ongoing farmers' protest, referred to as Kisan Andolan 2.0, has been gaining momentum once again, with its one-year mark approaching. A significant focus of the meeting was the deteriorating situation surrounding farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for 42 days. Dallewals health is reportedly critical, and the Government has faced mounting pressure to address farmers' demands. Capt Amarinders role in mediating between the Central Government and the agitating farmers is being closely watched. Sources suggested that the BJP leadership wants to avoid the protest spiraling into a nationwide movement, with support from farmers in other states, just like it did in 2020-21 when the Centre had to withdraw three controversial farm laws. With his vast political experience and connections in Punjab, Capt Amaridner could serve as a crucial intermediary to facilitate dialogue and resolution. Notably, during previous year-long agitation, Capt Amarinder was Punjab Chief Minister. Following Sunil Jakhars resignation as Punjab BJP president after the Lok Sabha elections, the state BJP leadership is in flux. Jakhar not only stepped down but also distanced himself from active party activities. With only two years left for the Punjab Assembly elections, the BJP faces the dual challenge of rebuilding its leadership structure and strategizing for future electoral success. Reports indicated that the BJP is exploring options to appoint a dynamic leader who can rejuvenate the partys prospects in Punjab. Capt Amarinders meeting with Shah also reportedly touched upon potential leadership choices and strategies for strengthening the BJPs organizational presence in the state. At the same time, the BJP has faced consistent setbacks in Punjab, not just in Lok Sabha elections but also in municipal and panchayat polls. The partys vote share has been steadily declining, both in urban and rural areas. Capt Amarinder and Shah are believed to have deliberated on ways to address these challenges, especially with assembly elections drawing closer. This is not Capt Amarinders first public intervention in recent months. On October 25, Capt Amarinder had made a surprise visit to Khanna Mandi during the height of the paddy procurement crisis, where farmers had accused the BJP-led Central Government of negligence. His visit was seen as a damage control measure, reflecting his commitment to Punjabs issues despite his recent political alignment with the BJP. Additionally, Capt Amarinders family remains politically active. His wife, former Union Minister Preneet Kaur, and daughter Jai Inder Kaur have been visible in Punjab politics, with Jai Inder who is the state BJP Mahila Morcha head, playing a key role in BJP's Patiala municipal election campaign. Can Capt Bridge the Gap Between Farmers and Govt? As farmers protests continue to grow, Capt Amarinders role in bridging the gap between the BJP led Central Government and Punjabs agricultural community could prove pivotal. His meeting with Shah is being interpreted as a step toward resolving the impasse and de-escalating tensions. The BJP is aware of the need to prevent the agitation from escalating and garnering support from farmers in other states, as was seen during the 2020-2021 protests against the now-repealed farm laws. Capt Amarinders credibility as a former Congress leader and his deep understanding of Punjabs socio-political fabric make him a valuable ally for the BJP in this regard. Captain Amarinders re-emergence in active politics signaled his intent to play a prominent role in shaping Punjabs political future. For the BJP, leveraging Capt Amarinders experience and political acumen could be a game-changer as it sought to overcome its challenges in the state. Chandigarh University (CU) has announced establishment of the first-of-its-kind artificial intelligence (AI) enabled next-gen futuristic campus at Unnao in Lucknow State Capital Region (SCR). The university will provide AI-augmented multidisciplinary education tailored to the evolving needs of 21st century learners. The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier issued an authorisation letter to Chandigarh University for its AI-integrated campus at Unnao in Lucknow SCR. Making the above announcement here, Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay on Monday also launched the Chandigarh University Lucknow web portal and prospectus for 2025-26 academic session. Upadhyay said under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh had become a key growth engine for the nations development. Uttar Pradesh is on track to become a USD 1 trillion economy within the next five years as the states gross domestic product (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 states economy, GDP and per capita income have more than doubled due to the double engine government, he said. Upadhyay said Uttar Pradesh was 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 Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths 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 Indias first AI City in an area of over 70 acres in Lucknow. While the state government has allocated Rs 500 crore for computing infrastructure, including 10,000 GPUs and an AI centre in Lucknow, the first phase of the AI City project has already attracted preliminary commitments of Rs 2,500 crore from private technology companies and venture capital firms, the minister said. He added, Funding for local startups in the AI and deep-tech space has increased by a massive 40 per cent over the past 18 months which shows investor confidence in AI. A global player in the data centre industry, ST Telemedia Global Data Centers (STT GDC) India, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Uttar Pradesh government to develop Indias first Artificial Intelligence (AI) City in Lucknow. As a hub for the AI ecosystem, AI City in Lucknow will open doors to 50,000 direct and indirect jobs for youth in AI over the next five years. Upadhyay pointed out that Chandigarh Universitys AI integrated campus perfectly aligns with the UP governments ambitions for AI-driven growth by preparing the 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 has shown its commitment to work on this vision by becoming the first country to establish a dedicated India AI Mission, which is first of its kind in the world with a budget outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore, to accelerate the adoption and integration of AI technologies across the country for innovation, economic growth and job creation in the digital age. The Rajya Sabha member said India, as the fastest-growing economy with the second-largest population in the world, had a crucial stake in the ongoing AI revolution and Uttar Pradesh had taken a big step in this direction by establishing Indias first AI City in Lucknow. Uttar Pradesh has been playing a key role in making Prime Minister Narendra Modis Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign a success and contributing to the nations 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. Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) employees initiated a three-day strike on Monday, causing significant disruptions in public transportation across the State. The protest, led by the Punjab Roadways PUNBUS and PRTC Contract Workers Union, has left approximately 2,800 buses grounded, stranding commuters at bus stands and affecting operations in all 27 depots statewide. The strike stems from long-standing grievances, including the regularization of contractual employees, salary increments, and an overhaul of the transport departments policies. Union leaders accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led State Government of neglecting its promises and ignoring the plight of thousands of contractual workers. The protesting employees include drivers, workshop mechanics, and clerical staff, many of whom have been serving on contractual or outsourced terms for years. Chandigarh Depot Contract Workers Union president Gurpreet Singh emphasized, When AAP came to power, they promised regularization of all contractual employees within a month. It has been over a year, and nothing has been done. Among the key demands of protesting employees are regularization of Contractual Workers, addition of new buses, and implementation of revised transport policy, among others. Nearly 7,500 contractual and outsourced employees form the backbone of Punjab Roadways and PRTC operations. Protesters demanded that outsourced workers be brought onto contracts and existing contractual staff be made permanent. Protesters argued that expanding the state-owned fleet is crucial to improving services and revenues, as opposed to relying on private operators through the Kilometer Scheme. The Union representatives also called for adherence to the 1986 state transport policy, which mandates a 70:30 ratio of government to private buses. They claimed that this ratio has reversed in favour of private buses, reducing opportunities for government-run services. PRTC-PUNBUS Contractual Employees Union president Resham Singh highlighted the revenue loss caused by underutilized government buses. Over 400 buses have been decommissioned in the last three years, and no new buses have been added to the fleet. The Kilometer Scheme benefits private bus owners at the expense of the state, he said. The strike has brought bus operations to a near standstill, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Harkesh Kumar Vicky, a union leader from Patiala Depot, noted that over 250 routes have been disrupted in Patiala alone, while operations at other depots face similar challenges. Passengers across Punjab are bearing the brunt, with limited transportation options. Regular staff have managed to operate only a handful of buses 51 in total on Monday. This disruption also translated to significant financial losses for the state. According to Union estimates, the daily receipts of PRTC and PUNBUS are Rs 2.64 crore and Rs three crore, respectively, amounting to massive revenue shortfalls. Union leaders have warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed. If the government continues to ignore us, we will protest outside Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns residence in Chandigarh or Sangrur on Tuesday. If there is no resolution, we will take our agitation to AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwals doorstep in New Delhi, said a protesting employee. Protesters also recalled a July 2024 meeting with Chief Minister Mann, which failed to yield tangible outcomes. The governments indifference has forced us to block roads and halt bus operations. This is our last resort, they said. The strike highlighted deeper structural issues within Punjabs transport system. The Kilometer Scheme, under which private bus operators are paid Rs 9.50 per kilometer, has come under fire for siphoning funds that could otherwise be used to strengthen the public fleet. Protesters argued that investing in new buses would be more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run. Critics also pointed out the disparity in policy implementation, with private operators reaping benefits while contractual workers face job insecurity and stagnant wages. A new bus costs Rs 30 lakh and can serve for 15 years. Yet, under the current scheme, private operators earn Rs 1.25 crore over six years while the government bears their operational costs, said Resham Singh. As the strike enters its second day on Tuesday, pressure mounts on the AAP Government to find a resolution. Union leaders have called for immediate action to prevent further escalation. The government, however, has yet to make a concrete statement on addressing these demands. he Supreme Court-appointed high-powered committee met with Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) convener Jagjit Singh Dallewal at the Khanauri border on Monday, after he agreed to hold talks with the panel. Dallewal, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 42 days, is protesting for legal guarantees on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops and other farmer-related demands. The panel, led by former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Nawab Singh, urged the protesting farmer leader to accept medical assistance as his health continues to deteriorate. The urgency of the meeting was underscored by an evening health bulletin issued regarding Dallewals health, warning that even if the 70-year-old farmer leader ended his hunger strike immediately, his organs might not recover fully. His physical condition marked by severe weakness, inability to stand, and critical fluctuations in blood pressure has become a focal point of the protest, symbolizing the farmers' unyielding resolve against perceived government apathy. The committees visit followed weeks of growing tensions, media attention, and legal battles over the protests at Punjabs Shambhu and Khanauri borders, where thousands of farmers have gathered since February 2024. The meeting marked the culmination of months of attempts by the Supreme Court to mediate the ongoing standoff. The committee, established in September 2024, was tasked with building a bridge between the Central Government and the protesting farmers. Despite its repeated efforts, including an interim report submitted on December 10, farmers had so far refused to engage with the panel, accusing it of lacking real authority to negotiate on critical issues like MSP guarantees. Justice Nawab Singh, addressing the media after meeting Dallewal, said: We have prayed to Waheguru for Dallewals recovery and have requested him to take medical aid. The committees role is to facilitate dialogue, but we do not have the mandate to directly engage with the Central Government on behalf of the farmers. I came here today not to say that the agitation should end, he said, adding, but to say your health should be good. Dallewals poignant response during the meeting reflected the depth of the crisis. He reportedly told the panel, Farming comes first; my health comes later. This unrelenting stance has become emblematic of the broader movement, which aims to push for long-overdue agricultural reforms. Dallewals Declining Health Dallewals health took a significant hit over the weekend when he suffered severe dizziness and vomiting following a nine-minute address at Kisan Mahapanchayat at Khanauri protest site on Saturday. Following the episode, he stopped consuming water, further aggravating his condition. On Sunday, his vital signs though relatively stable showed alarming trends, with doctors emphasizing the irreversible risks posed by prolonged fasting. His hunger strike began on November 26, 2024, and has drawn national and international attention, casting a harsh spotlight on the plight of farmers in India. The medical team present at the protest site remains on high alert, with volunteers and supporters growing increasingly anxious. However, Dallewals resolve to continue until meaningful dialogue with the Central Government is initiated has made the situation precarious. Going into the background, the protest at Shambhu and Khanauri borders has been ongoing since February 2024, driven by farmers demands for a legal framework guaranteeing MSP and resolving other agrarian issues. In July 2024, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the reopening of the Shambhu border within a week. Challenging the decision, Haryana Government appealed to the Supreme Court, which subsequently intervened. SC, in August, instructed partial reopening for emergency services while forming a six-member mediation committee chaired by Justice Nawab Singh, comprising retired IPS officer BS Sandhu, agriculture expert Devinder Sharma, professor Ranjit Singh Ghuman, and an agricultural economist from Punjab Agricultural University Dr Sukhpal Singh. In December, the committee reported that farmers had declined to engage in discussions, citing mistrust and lack of tangible outcomes. Following heightened tensions and legal submissions by the Punjab Government, the Supreme Court on Monday scheduled the next hearing for January 10, urging all stakeholders to consider humanitarian grounds. The Meteorological Department has issued a dense fog warning for several districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Gwalior, Datia, Bhind, Morena, Sheopur, Singrauli, Sidhi, Rewa, Mauganj, Satna, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari, and Maihar. Shallow to moderate fog is also expected in Mandsaur and Neemuch districts. The reduced visibility has already led to a tragic accident in Bhind, where a tractor collided with a tree, claiming one life. The accident occurred in Umri, Bhind, when Rinku Yadav, a resident of Chhaikur Ka Pura village, lost control of his tractor due to dense fog. The vehicle collided with a tree at around 4 a.m. before falling into a ditch. Yadav died on the spot, highlighting the dangerous road conditions caused by poor visibility. A Western Disturbance active in North India is pushing cold winds into Madhya Pradesh, resulting in a sharp drop in temperatures. The Meteorological Department predicts that the cold wave could persist for 20-22 days, forcing school closures in Gwalior and Morena and adjusted timings in Bhind to protect students from the severe cold. Temperatures in many cities across the state dropped below 10 degrees Celsius over the weekend. Jabalpur recorded the lowest temperature among major cities at 8C, followed by Gwalior at 9.2C, Bhopal at 9.6C, Indore at 12.8C, and Ujjain at 11.5C. Smaller towns and districts reported even colder conditions, with Nowgong recording 8C and Mandla at 8.8C. Dense fog has significantly reduced visibility in several regions. On Monday morning, Rewa airport reported a minimum visibility of 50 meters, while Khajuraho airport recorded 100 meters. Gwalior airport experienced visibility of 200 meters, and other areas such as Satna, Damoh, and Sidhi saw visibility ranging from 50 to 1,000 meters. Mauganj district recorded a mere 20 meters of visibility, severely affecting transportation and daily activities. The weather department forecasts light rain in some districts starting January 12 due to the continuing impact of the Western Disturbance. Meanwhile, snowfall in northern states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, is intensifying the cold wave across Madhya Pradesh. The cold conditions and fog have brought life to a standstill in many parts of the state. Dense fog was reported in Bhind, Morena, Gwalior, Datia, Niwari, North Chhatarpur, Satna, Rewa, and Mauganj. Moderate fog conditions were observed in districts like Neemuch, Mandsaur, Agar, North Ratlam, Shivpuri, Ashoknagar, Tikamgarh, Damoh, Maihar, Katni, South Chhatarpur, Sidhi, and Singrauli. The authorities have urged residents to exercise caution while traveling and to ensure adequate heating arrangements at home. Efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of the severe weather, but the situation underscores the challenges posed by dense fog and the ongoing cold wave. The District Election Officer of New Delhi has raised concerns about senior AAP leaders including Rajya Sabha MPs Raghav Chadha and Sanjay Singh exerting pressure on him to share the personal details of objectors. In a letter to the Chief Election Officer, Delhi dated January 4, he said, I am writing to bring to your notice a matter of concern pertaining to the independent functioning of the institution of District Election Officer, New Delhi district. Representatives of the Aam Aadmi Party have been frequently visiting my office and are asking for personal details of objectors which are not mandated to be shared as per ECI guidelines. He added that the AAP delegation visited his office on December 21, 28, 29 last year and on January 3, 2025 and there have been attempts on their part to exert pressure on me by asking for personal details of the objector and other such information which falls outside the purview of routine operations. He requested the CEO to provide insight and guidance in this matter on whether he is allowed to attend meetings called by the ruling government, without any prior meeting agenda or any other appropriate action as deemed fit by authority. He also mentioned that Chief Minister Atishi has been calling me for a meeting on December 4 without a specified agenda and in the past also, has called me for a meeting without any agenda, wherein discussion regarding electoral rolls was held. He also wrote to the OSD of the Chief Minister to convey the agenda of the upcoming meeting in advance so that he may come prepared for the meeting as well the timing may be rescheduled to allow me to reach the Office of CM, GNCTD in prescribed time. In light of this, I respectfully request that the agenda for our upcoming meeting be shared with me in advance. This would enable me to come prepared and ensure that the meeting is productive, he added. Further, the Additional District Magistrate wrote to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Mahla to provide security cover in the office of DEO for ensuring law and order in order to prevent any mishappening. I am writing to bring to your attention the frequent presence of representatives of political parties in the office of District Election Office in light of Delhi Vidhan Sabha elections, 2025. It is imperative to mention that under such circumstances, there is possibility of breach of peace and pressures being imposed on the office functionaries including DEO in order to disturb the process of conduct of election, the officer said. He added, In light of the above, I kindly request your intervention in deploying adequate police personnel at the location of our office i.e. 12/1 Jam Nagar House, for ensuring law and order in order to prevent any mishappening. The presence of security forces will deter any attempts to sabotage the ongoing election process and help the staff and officers involved in the election process to discharge their duties without fear or coercion. Meanwhile, Atishi on Monday alleged a 'voters scam' in the New Delhi constituency from where AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal is contesting the upcoming assembly elections. She claimed that in the past few days, 10 percent of new voters had been added to the New Delhi constituency electoral roll, and 5.5 per cent of voters had been deleted. In the New Delhi Assembly constituency, which has approximately one lakh voters, between December 15 and January 2, applications for adding 10,500 new voters were submitted. Adding 10,000 new voters in a constituency with one lakh voters could completely alter the election outcome, she said. "When the Election Commission summoned these 84 objectors for a hearing, the scam was exposed. The objectors denied filing any applications," she claimed. The CM also questioned the role of the election commission in the matter and said that the commission's role is 'suspicious' in this as they have not investigated the matter. "I have written a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner regarding this scam in the New Delhi assembly and have asked for time to address our concerns," she said. Responding to the AAP accusations, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said, "Team Kejriwal must understand that the civil society of Delhi wants to make Delhi free of fake and fraudulent voters. Any political party opposing the removal of fake votes will be ousted by the people of Delhi." "Delhiites are actively working to remove fake, fraudulent, shifted, and deceased votes, and many social organisations are focusing on removing the votes of Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims," he added. Nearly three months after Delhi University constituted a committee to address the long standing policy implementation disputes with St. Stephen's college, no meeting has taken place between the two sides, delaying efforts to resolve allegations of the college disregarding university rules, a committee member said on Tuesday. In August last year, St. Stephen's rejected the applications of 12 'single girl child' students seeking admission to its undergraduate programmes beyond its declared seat capacity. DU had previously asked all its colleges to admit students beyond its seat limit for optimal filling of seats. The parents of the affected students challenged the matter in the Supreme Court, and after a prolonged delay, the college enrolled the students, allowing them to attend classes on the court's order. Following this, in October last year, Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh formulated a three-member panel to hold talks with the college principal John Varghese after the college denied admission to over a dozen students, including those who applied under DU's newly introduced single girl child quota, for UG admissions. Despite the urgency of these issues, the committee members said no meetings have been held because DU has not issued an official directive to convene them. This is further delaying the efforts to resolve the concerns regarding university rules. "The university has not issued any formal directive to convene the meeting, so there has not been any progress on this front. Without an official order, it is difficult to initiate the process," a committee member said. "Given the approaching elections, it seems unlikely that a meeting will take place anytime soon," another member added. St. Stephen's principal John Varghese said the college has not even been informed about the committee's formation. "We have not received so far any note or email or communication from the university regarding a meeting or proposed meeting to address the admissions-related concerns," he said. "We came to know through media reports that such a committee had been set up but were neither appraised about it nor were we approached by the university on the matter," Varghese added. The Delhi University has once again announced that a single seat would be reserved for single girl child in each postgraduate programme for the 2025-26 session, which is pending approval from the highest decision-making body of the university -- the Executive Council. When asked if St Stephen's will implement this reservation in its post-graduation programmes if it gets a green nod, Varghese did not respond. St. Stephen's College operates under its own "Supreme Council," which is composed of members from the Church of North India. The council is chaired by the Bishop of the Diocese of Delhi and is responsible for making decisions on matters concerning the religious character of the college. Governor Mangubhai Patel said that multi-faceted arts are an important source of cultural prosperity of the country. They awaken the soft feelings within us and teach us the lesson of humanity. Arts preserve and protect the specialties of our traditions, heritage, customs, rituals, religion, society, language etc. Governor Patel was addressing the closing ceremony of the National Art Festival organised at the Regional Institute of Education at Shyamla Hills Bhopal campus. On this occasion, he gave awards to the winning students from all over the country for their excellent performance in various forms of art and also honored the judges of various forms of National Art Festival. Governor Patel also visited the art exhibition organised by NCERT. The National Art Festival was organised from January 3 to 6, 2025 in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Government of India and NCERT. About 600 participants from Kendriya Vidyalaya, Navodaya Vidyalaya and Eklavya Vidyalaya of India participated in the Art Festival. Governor Patel also congratulated NCERT for organising the National Art Festival in the state capital Bhopal. Governor Patel said that the Art Festival is an effective attempt to preserve and promote the heritage of country's art and culture in the field of education. The National Education Policy is a project to prepare children as global leaders of the 21st century by enhancing their talent, skills and developing them holistically. It has been prepared with the aim of realising the concept of Developed India 2047, realising the immense potential of the children of the country. He also appealed to the participating students to take part enthusiastically in the Developed India Young Leaders Dialogue programme being organised on January 12. Governor Patel said that the future generation creates new values ??of their life in accordance with the form of their culture. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all of us to connect children with our rich cultural diversity through experience-based education and to acquaint and inspire them with the glorious vision of Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat. Governor Patel said that keep a special place for art in life because art connects, inspires and strengthens us as a community. Therefore, try that this event of National Art Festival becomes not only a platform for showcasing various forms of art but also a powerful medium to make people aware about our culture and traditions and inspire them for preservation. Governor Patel was welcomed by presenting a shawl and a plant in the programme. A video message of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was broadcast in the programme. Secretary of the Central School Education and Literacy Department, Sanjay Kumar expressed his views on the introduction, types and utility of art. NCERT Director Prof Dinesh Prasad Saklani gave detailed information about the organisation of the Art Festival. National Coordinator Dr. Jyotsna Tiwari presented the annual report of 2024-25 of the Art Festival event. Dr. Deepak Paliwal proposed vote of thanks. Additional Secretary of Central School Education and Literacy Department Anand Rao Patil, art scholars, art gurus, participating students from various disciplines and parents were present at the closing ceremony of the National Art Festival. A Mega Women Health Camp and Drishti Suraksha Abhiyan was successfully organized on January 4, Saturday from 9 am in the old Sadar Hospital premises under the joint aegis of Women Doctors Wing I.M.A. Jharkhand, National Health Mission, Jharkhand and District Administration, Pakur . The chief guest of the event was MLA, Maheshpur, Stephen Marandi. The camp was inaugurated by lighting the lamp jointly by DC Manish Kumar, SP Prabhat Kumar, Former National Co-President, Women Doctors Wing, IMA, State President, Women Doctors Wing, IMA Jharkhand Dr. Bharti Kashyap, District Council President Julie Khistmani Hembram, Deputy Development Commissioner Mahesh Kumar Santhalia, Civil Surgeon Dr. Mantu Kumar Tekriwal and others. It is to be noted that in 2024, eye camps and mega health mega women health campaign camps focused on PVTG (Particular Vulnerable Tribal Group) are being organized in the remote Naxal-affected areas of Santhal Pargana and Kolhan. It was organized in Gua on July 1, Goilkera on July 15, Tonto on December 21 and now, it was organized in Pakur on January 4 and will be organized in Sahibganj on January 5. In the camp festival, cervical cancer screening, eye screening, malaria and filariasis screening, HIV and syphilis screening, kala-azar screening, high blood pressure screening, TB screening, sickle cell screening, diabetes screening, prenatal screening, senior citizen screening, hemoglobin screening, vaccination, family planning related advice was given. Free medicines were also distributed. DC, Pakur, Manish Kumar, welcomed the entire team of Health Department Pakur. He said that the performance of the district in the Pulse Polio campaign was commendable. Under the National Child Health Program, camps have been set up in all the schools. 30 thousand children were examined through the camp. He said that with the help of awareness we can avoid fatal diseases like cervical cancer. He said that with awareness most of the diseases can be avoided. The DC said that our district is in great need of health. All the public representatives have always discussed education and health. Many women lose their lives due to cervical cancer. Many women lose their lives due to lack of awareness. SP, Prabhat Kumar said that if your health is good then everything is good for you. Health is wealth, all of you must take care of your health. Do exercise daily, keep getting regular body checkups done. He said that 1 lakh 70 thousand deaths occur in road accidents every year. He appealed that if you drive a bike, then definitely wear a helmet and if you drive a four wheeler, then definitely use a seat belt. He also appealed to the people that better treatment is being provided in the government hospital too, you all must take advantage of it. Civil Surgeon Dr. Mantu Kumar Tekriwal said that there are a lot of patients of cervical inflammation in the village and small children also have cataract and many other types of blindness, it is very important to make them aware. Dr. Bharti Kashyap, who was awarded Nari Shakti Samman by the President, said that the local people deprived of health facilities, 12600 PVTG families settled here, small children losing vision, such people are our priority because they cannot reach us, we have to reach them and this is the purpose of such camps. We have already organized such health campaigns in Deoghar, Jamtara, Dumka, Barhet, Rajmahal, Sahibganj of the institute pargana. By creating the Jharkhand model, we have screened and treated about 470000 women of reproductive capacity so far who had symptoms of genital inflammation or who were in the high risk category. Under the Vision for Jharkhand campaign, over 20 lakh children of government schools have been screened, thousands of children have been given free spectacles and hundreds of children have been sent back to school after undergoing free cataract surgery. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has reported cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) across several states in India. HMPV, an MRNA virus from the Pneumoviridae family, causes symptoms resembling the common cold, such as cough, congestion, fever, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. Since there is no specific treatment, prevention remains the most effective approach, much like with COVID-19. Deputy Commissioner Vijaya Jadhav has appealed to the public to ignore rumors and strictly follow the advisory issued by the Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare Department. She emphasized that the health department has been directed to ensure all necessary precautions and preparations to address the situation. Residents are advised to adopt precautionary measures to stay safe. These include wearing masks in public, maintaining proper hand hygiene, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, consuming nutritious food, staying hydrated, and seeking medical advice promptly if symptoms arise. Equally important is avoiding certain behaviors that increase risk. People are urged to stay away from crowded places unnecessarily, avoid meeting others when experiencing symptoms like cold or fever, refrain from shaking hands, and avoid spitting in public areas. Additionally, frequent touching of the face and self-medication should be avoided. The Deputy Commissioner has assured the public that all necessary measures are being implemented. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, follow health guidelines, and work together to prevent the spread of HMPV effectively. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday extended his greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of 358th Prakash Utsav (birth anniversary) of Guru Gobind Singh. He expressed immense pride in the supreme sacrifice made by Guru Gobind Singhs Sahibzadas (sons), who gave their lives in service to society and religion. Saini visited Nada Sahib Gurudwara to pay tribute on the occasion of Guru Gobind Singhs 358th Prakash Utsav. He bowed in reverence before Guru Granth Sahib and participated in the Akhand Path. Subsequently, he also paid his respects to the Nishan Sahib and prayed for the well-being and prosperity of the people of Haryana. Talking to reporters, the Chief Minister emphasized Guru Gobind Singhs monumental contributions in establishing the Khalsa Panth and his personal sacrifices for the welfare of society and the nation. He said that the people of Haryana had again elected the BJP to power at both the state and central levels, and the government was committed to accelerating development in the state. He also said that all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) would visit villages every month to directly listen to people's concerns and resolve them on-site. When asked about the Laharu incident, the Chief Minister said that before initiating a CBI investigation, the agencies of Haryana are actively working on the matter. The government is functioning in a transparent manner and is committed to ensuring that the citizens of the state live a happy and fear-free life. He assured that no crime would be tolerated and strict action would be taken against the culprits. The Chief Minister also highlighted that free education is being provided to girls in both government and private colleges across the state. On this occasion, the Jathedar of Nada Sahib Gurudwara Baljeet Singh welcomed the Chief Minister and presented him with a Saropa. He also praised the governments decision to conduct elections for the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, a move that will see voting in 40 wards across the state on January 19 for the first time. AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday released the party's campaign song for the Delhi Assembly polls, aiming to strike a chord with voters, as it bids for a third consecutive term in office. The song solely highlights the work he has accomplished and the guarantees he has made. "Phir Layenge Kejriwal" -- the 3:29-minute song -- highlights AAP's achievements during its tenure and emphasises continuity in governance. The video was the part of AAP's phir layenge Kejriwal ( will again bring Kejriwal) campaign for the upcoming Assembly polls. Kejriwal said after releasing the song, "We celebrate our elections like festivals, and people wait for our song; now it's out, and people can dance to it." The AAP supremo said the song was dedicated to everyone and urged for it to be shared widely. "Dance to it, play it at weddings, birthdays and celebrations." He also took a jab at the BJP, referring to it as a "gali-galauj (abuse)" party, and said, "I know even BJP leaders will like our song, they can secretly dance to it in their rooms." The song highlights the AAP government's core achievements, including free electricity, clean water, health care, and education.It aims to strike a chord with every section of society, including women, youngsters, children, and autorickshaw drivers, and counters misinformation against Kejriwal's administration, the party said in statement. The party has not disclosed who sang the song.AAP launched its first campaign song in 2015, followed by another in 2020.With "Phir Layenge Kejriwal", the party hopes to rally support for a third consecutive term in office, it said. Lauding the song, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi said in a post on X, "AAP's campaign song for the assembly elections reflects the sentiments of every common citizen in Delhi. Over the last 10 years, Arvind Kejriwal has cared for Delhi's two crore people like a family. That's why Delhiites will bring him back." Delhi minister Gopal Rai noted that the song would add momentum to AAP's campaign, promising more improvements such as 24x7 free electricity, better schools and hospitals, and free transport for women.Senior leaders Atishi, Manish Sisodia, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Rai and Sanjay Singh, among others, were present at the release. Meanwhile, the BJP launched a poster featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi with folded hands with a background of India Gate with 8 February ko Delhi me aarhi hai Bhajpa (BJP is coming to Delhi on February 8). Sharing the poster on X from the official handle of Delhi BJP, the party said, On February 8, Delhi will get a double engine government, the development of the capital will gain speed and Delhiites will get the gift of public welfare schemes of the Center. The party also shared a video which starts from the dialogue of Ranveer Singh in Singham Again stating Everybody knows who is coming? You dont know? and transitions to the video showing clips of PM Modi, asserting that BJP will form a government in Delhi after February 8, when the counting is scheduled. Sharing the video, the party shared its slogan Delhi me hogya hai ailan, 8 February ko Delhi me Bhajpa sarkar (The announcement has been made in Delhi, BJP government will be formed in Delhi on 8 February) Congress, who is also looking to revive itself in the upcoming poll, shared a poster featuring Delhi Congress chief Devendra Yadav along with the photos of senior party leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge among others, stating Ho gaya hai chunavi ran ka agaz, Delhi me is bar Congress sarkar (The election battle has begun, Congress government in Delhi this time). Sharing the poster on X, the party said, Aapne ek vote se Delhi me fir se Khushali laye, 5 February ko hath ka button dabaye (Bring prosperity back to Delhi with your one vote, Press the hand button on February 5th) With the release of the campaign song, AAP has intensified efforts to retain its footing in the national capital.The party has already announced candidates for all 70 constituencies. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that the entire nation bows down to the sacrifice of four Sahibzadas and family made by Guru Gobind Singh to protect the pride of the country and religion and to establish the original religion. The life journey of Guru Ji, who sacrificed his family against foreign invaders for the self-respect and culture of the country, is inspirational for all. Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth and told that it is necessary to fight bravely by taking up arms for the country and culture. His efforts to save religion, culture and history are effective, incomparable and wonderful example before the whole world. His martyrdom will be remembered in every era and every period. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was addressing devotees after paying obeisance at Gurdwara Hamidia Road on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Guru of the Sikhs and founder of the Khalsa Panth. Yadav said that Guru Gobind Singh was fortunate in the sense that even the smallest child of his family had a feeling of pride for the country, religion and culture and was ready to sacrifice for his religion and life values. Guru Gobind Singh tried to find answers to many spiritual questions. He gave the form of a guide to Guru Granth Sahib by collecting the holy sayings of all the Gurus. In a landmark initiative to give back to their alma mater, the Loyola High School ICSE Batch of 1977 has established an endowment fund to support meritorious students. The initiative, which was set up under the Mast 77 Legacy Trust, will provide scholarships to academically excellent students graduating from Std XI to XII. The Mast 77 Legacy Trust, created in 2018, has been actively involved in community welfare projects, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, where they provided medicinal and other interventions to help two villages fight the virus. However, the Trust now aims to make a bigger, more sustainable impact in the field of education. We felt it was time to think of something more enduring involving our Alma Mater. With the support of all the students from the Batch of 1977, we decided to set up the Batch of 1977 Endowment to fund scholarships for the toppers in the five academic streams at Loyola High School, said a Trustee of the Trust. This endowment will be a collective tribute to our school, our teachers, and the city of Jamshedpur, where we spent our formative years. The endowment is already operational, with the Trust thanking all the donors who made this possible in less than two months. The endowment corpus will be parked with Loyola High School in the form of a fixed deposit. The annual interest earned will be used to fund five scholarships of Rs. 10,000 each for the academic toppers in the five streams. The school will use only Rs. 50,000 of the interest every year, while any additional interest will be added back to the endowment corpus, ensuring its sustainability for future years. The Trust will step in if required to top up the fund. The school will notify the Trust of the scholarship winners each year, and representatives of the Batch of 1977 will be invited to the schools annual prize night for the scholarship distribution. Importantly, the school is not permitted to use the endowment for any other purposes, and the criteria for selecting the scholarship recipients will strictly be based on academic excellence. On January 6, 2025, Trustees Sudhansu Pathak, Mahendra Gupta, Amresh Sinha, Gautam Mascharak, Vivek Lamba, and Framroze Bugli met with the Principal of Loyola High School, Fr. Vinod, and handed over a cheque of Rs. 700,000 to kick-start the endowment fund. Fr. Vinod expressed his gratitude, saying, The scholarships will provide crucial support to the students and motivate them to strive for even greater academic success. I appreciate this initiative and thank you for your generosity, which will also serve as an inspiration for future generations of students. The first batch of scholarship recipients will be announced during the 2025 Annual Prize Night, scheduled to take place in March-April. This event is expected to be an especially proud and joyful occasion for the Batch of 1977, as they celebrate the success of the meritorious students and their lasting connection to Loyola High School. The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday announced the schedule for the by-election to Milkipur assembly constituency in Uttar Pradeshs Ayodhya district. Voting will take place on February 5, with the results set to be declared on February 10. "The Commission has decided to hold by-elections to fill vacancies in the following Assembly constituencies along with general election to the legislative Assembly of NCT of Delhi, 2025, the ECI statement said. The Milkipur assembly seat fell vacant following the resignation of Awadhesh Prasad, who was elected MLA from the constituency during the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. In 2024, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav fielded Prasad as the Lok Sabha candidate from Faizabad (Ayodhya), where he defeated BJPs Lallu Singh. After securing his victory in the Lok Sabha polls, Prasad resigned from Milkipur, necessitating this by-election. Earlier, by-elections to nine assembly seats were held in Uttar Pradesh, where the BJP secured victories on seven seats, while the SP won on twoKarhal and Sisamau. One of the most surprising outcomes was the BJPs victory in the Muslim-dominated Kundarki assembly seat, traditionally considered a stronghold of the Samajwadi Party. BJP candidate Ramveer Singh emerged victorious, breaking years of dominance by the opposition. The Election Commission delayed the election for the Milkipur seat due to a writ petition filed by former MLA Gorakhnath Baba in the Allahabad High Court. The petition challenged Awadhesh Prasads victory in the 2022 elections. However, the case has now been withdrawn, paving the way for the by-election. A motorcycle taxi driver of Ola, Uber and Rapido, who killed his 26 year old wife over suspicion of infidelity and hid her body inside a bed box at his house in Delhi, had also planned to chop her body into pieces and kill her friend who he believed she was in a relationship with. According to the police on Tuesday, the husband has been identified as 28 year old Dhanraj alias Lalu and the wife was identified as Deepa Chauhan, who was working in a private company and bearing the household expenses. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh said, However, Dhanraj was arrested before he could execute the plan. Police recovered a woman's decomposed body from a house in the Janakpuri area on Friday last week whose mouth was covered with white tape. Based on her father's complaint, an FIR was registered against Dhanraj. During the investigation, the police found that Dhanraj was an alcoholic. She was friends with a male co-worker which Dhanraj objected to and suspected her of having an affair with him, DCP said. Multiple teams were formed to trace Dhanraj. The police found that he had obtained a new SIM card and had gone to Amritsar. While returning to Delhi, he was arrested from Karnal bypass on Sunday, he said. During the interrogation, Dhanraj confessed to killing his wife and revealed that on December 29, an argument broke out between them over his wife's friendship with her co-worker and he strangled her to death. He stuffed her body inside the bed box and covered her mouth with the tape to delay decomposition. He also planned to chop the body into pieces and dispose them. Dhanraj watched several videos online to learn the procedure, DCP said, adding that he had also asked his friends to help him dispose of the body, but they refused. On January 3, the accused went to Agra in Uttar Pradesh and he again returned to Delhi and thereafter went to Jaipur. On January 4, the accused again returned to Delhi and went to Amritsar. On January 5, he was returning from Amritsar, Punjab to execute the murder of his wifes friend. However, the accused was apprehended by the team of Anti Narcotics Cell of Dwarka district and he ultimately confessed about the crime, Singh added. He said that three mobile phones including the mobile phone of the deceased were recovered from the accused's possession. Speeding up its crackdown on illegal immigrants in the national Capital even as a slugfest has been ensuing between AAP and BJP over the issue, the Delhi Police on Monday claimed that it has deported nine Bangladeshi nationals since the New Year who were staying illegally in the central district of the national Capital. Following the orders of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to launch a two-month special drive to identify and take strict action against illegal Bangladeshi immigrants residing in the city, the police have deported a total of 28 Bangladeshi nationals in southwest district, seven in south district, 14 in southeast district, nine in west district and 13 in central district. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) M Harsha Vardhan said that they have undertaken a two pronged strategy to intensify its vigilance against illegal foreigners including on-ground verifications and data based analysis of foreigners. They were caught during verification drives conducted by police, he said. The nine immigrants who have have been identified and identified since January 1 included 41 years old Md. Iman Hossain, 43 years old Md Sharmin Parvez, 24 years old Rakib Khan, 29 years old Mafujul Islam, 24 years old Shakil Sarker, 38 years old Md Monju Sarker, 36 years old Shahin Danish, 26 years old Taizul Islam and 19 years old Moin Mia. Among the nine Bangladeshi nationals deported in January are those caught during verification drives in Jama Masjid and Nabi Karim areas. They include Mohammad Iman Hossain, who entered India illegally after paying an agent, and Mohammad Sharmin Parvez, whose visa expired in October 2024. Others overstayed their visas and were attempting to acquire Indian identity documents," the DCP said. He added that the rest of the accused have been detained from the area of Nabi Karim police station where they were staying in a hotel. On checking their documents, it was found that they are overstaying in India and were looking to acquire Indian identity documents, he stated. Meanwhile, the police deported five foreign nationals in the last year including one Iranian and four Bangladeshis in the central district police. The Bangladeshi nationals included 34 years old Md. Iqbal Hussain, 24 years old Md. Shohag Hosan, Raihan Islam Polin and Nasir Uddin while Keihan Honardoust belonged to Iran Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday approved the notification of The Delhi Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Rules, 2024 by the Finance Department of the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) in a bid to ensure that fraudulent schemes are not used by criminals to dupe hapless residents of their savings. 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 Government of India had enacted the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019, through a gazette notification dated July 31, 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. 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 October 29, 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 GoI. The GoI urged the GNCTD to expedite the formulation of its own rules under Section 38 of the Act, a statement by the Raj Niwas said. It added that 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. The statement said, This draft was reviewed by the Law Department, which advised obtaining the opinion of the then Honble Lieutenant Governor, as required by Clause (4) of Article 239AA of the Constitution. Approval from the Lieutenant Governor 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 finalize and notify them accordingly. One notable suggestion from the GoI highlighted that Section 38(2) (a) in conjunction with Section 2(4) (j) of the Act allows the State Government to establish ceilings for Self-Help Groups (SHGs). The GoI cited the example of Tamil Nadu, which included a provision in its draft rules. While these provisions are enabling and not mandatory, the GNCTD was encouraged to consider including a corresponding provision if deemed necessary. In a landmark initiative to promote environmental sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Prestige Institute of Engineering, Management, and Research (PIEMR) has partnered with the Indore Climate Mission. This collaboration aims to position Indore as a global leader in climate sensitivity and green practices. Davish Jain, Chairman of the Prestige Education Foundation, announced the partnership, calling it a "milestone in Indore's journey towards a greener future." He added, "This mission reflects our commitment to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly environment. Together, we will set an example of how collective efforts can drive impactful change for the environment." The Indore Climate Mission, a joint initiative by the Indore Municipal Corporation and the Energy Swaraj Foundation, seeks to significantly reduce the city's greenhouse gas emissions over the next 100 days. One key target is to achieve a 20% reduction in electricity consumption between January and March 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Highlighting the mission's objectives, Professor Chetan Solanki, renowned as "India's Solar Man," said, "This initiative is a testament to Indores commitment to fighting climate change. We aim to inspire other cities to follow in our footsteps through integrated and innovative efforts." The agreement was formalized by senior representatives from Prestige Institutes, including Dr. Manoj Kumar Deshpande (Senior Director) and Dr. Deepali Sarvate. Mr. Himanshu Jain, PIMR Group Director Dr. Sher Singh Bhaker, Colonel Raman Iyer, and Dr. Rajeev Raghuvanshi were also attending. Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava honored the collaboration by presenting certificates of participation to Prestige Institutes, acknowledging their significant role in the mission. This partnership between Prestige Education Group and the Indore Climate Mission is expected to create a positive environmental impact, setting the stage for Indore to emerge as a beacon of sustainability and innovation on the global map. Political parties including the BJP, AAP and Congress welcomed the announcement of Delhi assembly elections and asserted their claim to the throne with the AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal terming the elections as a battle between politics of work and politics of hurling abuses. Welcoming the announcement, the former Chief Minister rallied AAPs volunteers, calling them the partys greatest strength and urging them to rise with determination to defeat the oppositions machinery. The election schedule has been announced. All volunteers should gear up with full strength and enthusiasm to take the field. Even their massive machinery fails in the face of your passion. You are our greatest strength. This election will be a contest between the politics of work and the politics of hurling abuses. The trust of Delhi's people will remain with our politics of work. We will surely win, Kejriwal said in a post on X. Addressing a press conference, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said that the day every Delhiite has been waiting for has finally been announced by the Election Commission today. On 5th February, 1,55,24,958 voters of Delhi will vote for the vision of building a new, better and beautiful Delhi and on 8th February, the lotus flower will bloom in Delhi under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a double engine government will be formed in Delhi. BJP welcomes the date announced by the Election Commission and undoubtedly the people of Delhi are also determined to oust such corrupt and Delhi-plundering AAP-Da government from power, he added. West Delhi BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat said, People of Delhi will exercise their voting rights on February 5. I am fully assured that the public will vote for the BJP for the way the party is developing the country and other states. They will elect a BJP chief minister on February 8. " New Delhi BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj called elections a festival of democracy, and requested the people of Delhi, especially the youth, to come out in large numbers and vote for change. Now it is time to build a progressive Delhi, a healthy Delhi, a Delhi that is going to become a world-class city with proper infrastructure. For that, what is required is a BJP double-engine government model in Delhi," she stated. Chandni Chowk BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal welcomed the Election Commissions announcement of the Delhi Assembly election dates, highlighting that choosing Wednesday as the polling day is a thoughtful decision. He stated that this move will ensure maximum voter participation as it falls on a working day rather than a weekend. President Droupadi Murmu has declined a request from the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) for a meeting on the issues related to the farming community, citing a lack of time. The SKM, in in a letter to the President, had sought her intervention on urgent agricultural issues, including farner leader Jagjit Singh Dallewals inadequate crop prices, skyrocketing production costs, and the crippling debt burden faced by farmers across the nation. Expressing disappointment, the SKM acknowledged the Presidents gesture of providing a formal written response. We deeply regret that the President could not meet us due to her packed schedule. However, we appreciate her for considering our request and for the respect shown in offering a written reply, the SKM said. The farmers collective emphasized the critical need for the Presidents involvement, given the failure of other institutions, including the central government and the Supreme Court, to resolve the ongoing crisis. Central to the SKMs appeal is the escalating urgency of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewals hunger strike, now in its 41st day. The SKM had described the situation as life-threatening and criticized the inaction of the government and judiciary. The President, as the head of state, bears a constitutional responsibility to ensure that democratic institutions uphold their commitments to justice and fairness, the SKM remarked. The SKMs statement went beyond immediate concerns, condemning the governments recently introduced Draft National Policy Framework on Agriculture Marketing. Describing it as an even greater threat than the now-repealed three farm laws, the SKM accused the government of enabling corporate intrusion into agriculture. This policy is a direct attack on farmers, agricultural workers, small traders, and state governments. It prioritizes agribusiness profits over the livelihoods of millions and undermines the federal structure of our democracy, the statement declared. The SKM emphasized that the Presidents role extends beyond ceremonial duties, calling on her to champion the cause of farmers who are the backbone of the nation. The survival of Indian agriculture is not just an issue of economic policyit is a matter of national security, food sovereignty, and rural stability, the statement read. Despite the setback, the SKM reiterated its commitment to peaceful dialogue and democratic engagement. The pan-India farmers body expressed hope that Rashtrapati Bhavan would reconsider its decision and open channels for a meaningful discussion with farmer representatives. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday renewed his pledge to serve the state with renewed vigor, passion, dedication and commitment while following the footsteps of Dashmesh Pitaah Sri Guru Gobind Singh. The Chief Minister, who paid obeisance at Gurudwara Bhatha Sahib, greeted people on the sacred occasion of Parkash Purb of Tenth Sikh Master Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji. He said that the great Sikh guru had taught us to fight against tyranny, injustice and oppression.He said that 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. Mann 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. Bhagwant Singh Mann exhorted people to celebrate this sacred occasion with utmost devotion and dedication rising above the parochial considerations of caste, colour, creed and religion. Commissionerate Police Amritsar on Tuesday dismantled a drug trafficking cartel with the arrest of four individuals, including one woman and seized 5 kg heroin from their possession, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said. Those arrested have been identified as Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi (19) and Baljeet Kaur (32), both resident of village Muthiaval in Tarn Taran; Maninder Singh (34), a resident of Bhikhiwind in Tarn Taran and Harpreet Singh (26), a resident of Lodhi Gujar village in Amritsar. Apart from recovering heroin, police teams have also impounded two motorcycles. Yadav said that all the accused persons were in direct contact with Pakistan-based smugglers and receiving consignments of drugs from across the border. Probe revealed that consignments were being dropped with the help of drones, he added. The DGP said that further investigations are going on to establish backward and forward linkages in this case. More arrests and recoveries are likely in coming days, he added. TWO ACCUSED INVOLVED IN FIRING INCIDENTS ARRESTED AFTER BRIEF ENCOUNTER Punjab Police have solved at least two firing incidents in the district Tarn Taran with the arrest of two associates of foreign-based gangster Prabhdeep Singh alias Prabh Dasuwal after a brief encounter took place at Valtoha in Tarn Taran, DGP Yadav said. Those arrested have been identified as Karanpreet Singh alias Karan and Gurlaljit Singh alias Laali. Police teams have also recovered one .32 bore pistol along with live cartridges and empty bullet shells from their possession, besides impounding their Honda Activa scooter, which they were riding. The accused were running an extortion racket on the directions of their handler Prabh Dasuwal and were involved in two firing incidents. The recent firing incident took place at a Medical Store in village Gharyala on January 1 this year and another firing incident took place at Valtoha wherein they targeted Arhtiya to demand extortion of Rs 20 lakh on December 2, 2024. DGP Yadav said that following the incident, Tarn Taran Police has launched a special operation and acting on technical aspects and human intel identified both the accused persons involved in both the cases. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the Sambhal violence was a government conspiracy. He claimed that the Sambhal incident was not a communal riot but a planned act by the district administration, leading to the death of five people. Addressing a press conference here, Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of inciting violence in Sambhal, where innocent people were allegedly tortured. When the SP delegation attempted to visit Sambhal, it was stopped by the authorities. What was the government trying to hide? he questioned, adding that the incident was a deliberate attempt to disrupt communal harmony. Yadav alleged that, as a cover-up exercise, innocent people were being framed in fake cases. The entire incident was planned by the government and executed through the district officials. What was the tearing hurry for conducting the survey, even as the Places of Worship Act 1991 prohibits such a survey? he said. The survey was conducted as part of a well-planned conspiracy, leading to violence, he added. He further criticised the BJP for its alleged lack of concern for human life, stating: Life holds no value for them. This is a heartless party, devoid of sympathy. Justice and public grievances have no place in this government. Leader of the Opposition in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Mata Prasad Pandey, also presented a report on the Sambhal violence, alleging that tensions were deliberately escalated over a mosque survey. He accused the BJP of orchestrating the incident, stating that the survey team included BJP members and that the police used disproportionate force. Instead of using tear gas, they opened fire, attempting to disrupt the communal harmony of the state, he said. Pandey questioned the need for the survey, pointing to the Places of Worship Act, which prohibits such actions. This entire incident was part of a government conspiracy, he claimed. The violence in Sambhal had erupted on November 24 when a team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) visited the Shahi Jama Masjid for the survey. The SP chief also targeted the BJP on issues of corruption and injustice, particularly against the PDA (backward, Dalit, and minority communites). Even BJP members are accusing each other of corruption. There is internal conflict within their politics in Delhi and Lucknow, he claimed. Commenting on electoral malpractice, he alleged that the administration played a role in manipulating elections. Referring to the by-elections for nine UP assembly seats, he said, People were not allowed to vote freely, with police officers stationed at places to stop people from going to polling booths. The media should visit Milkipur to witness first-hand how elections are conducted under this government. Alluding to the presence of saints and sages at the Kumbh, Yadav indirectly criticised Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. I pray to the saints to take a companion with them when they leave. Many individuals are involved in activities they should not be, which impacts both their work and others, he remarked. He also raised concerns about the alleged negligence of the government regarding an MLAs claim about cow slaughter. The BJP MLA says 50,000 cows are being slaughtered. If true, what is the Sanatani chief minister doing? If the MLA is wrong, why hasnt the government addressed this? he questioned. He also accused the government of allowing the demolition of an ASI-protected building in Agra. The building was demolished by someone close to officials, seeking to expand their business, Yadav alleged, criticising the administration for its inaction. Union Minister of Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday jointly chaired the meeting of the Lohgarh Project Development Committee. The committee was formed to oversee the development of the world-class Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Memorial, which will be built at Lohgarh in Yamunanagar district. The Haryana Government has constituted the Lohgarh Project Development Committee to monitor the progress of the Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Memorial at Lohgarh. Union Minister Khattar serves as the Chief Patron of the Committee, while Chief Minister Saini acts as its Chairman. During the meeting, Khattar directed the officials to accelerate the progress of establishing the world-class heritage memorial, ensuring that the project is completed and dedicated to the public at the earliest. He said that Baba Banda Singh Bahadur Memorial should primarily focus on the biography of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, which should reflect the heroic saga of his bravery and sacrifice. He also suggested that the memorial should also feature a museum dedicated to the battles fought by Baba Banda Singh Bahadur and other Sikh Gurus against the Mughals across the country. The design of the memorial should aim to educate the public, especially the younger generation, about the history and valiant contributions of Veer Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. Apart from this, he also suggested that the establishment of the memorial should also focus more on promoting the traditional Sikh martial arts that were practiced in the past. It was apprised in the meeting that the project would be completed in two phases. The first phase, which will cost approximately Rs 74 Crore, will focus on restoring and enhancing the fort, constructing the Quilanuma Wall, building an entrance gate, Nanakshahi coin, landscaping the site, and building the memorial. In addition, a state-of-the-art museum will be constructed, combining Baba Banda Singh Bahadur's life story with modern technology to create an immersive experience for visitors. The memorial at Lohgarh, the first capital of the Sikh Raj established by Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, would reignite the story of his extraordinary bravery, valor and sacrifice. Later, while chairing a review meeting on the establishment of the Sikh Museum in Kurukshetra , Khattar said, "If there is any place in Haryana where the feet of the Gurus have touched the ground the most, it is the sacred land of Kurukshetra." He further said that the state government has decided to set up a grand museum dedicated to the preservation and enrichment of Sikh culture on three acres of land in Kurukshetra's Pipli. Inspired by the values and ideals of the Sikh Gurus, the museum would act as a "repository of inspiration" for future generations, he added. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Monday, said that the sacrifice of a martyr was the lifeblood of that society, emphasising that sacrifices made for the nation and faith had given a fresh lease of life to society since time immemorial. Speaking at the Shaurya Samman-2025 programme organised by a media group at Hotel Taj, Chief Minister Yogi highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations, which aims to transform India into a developed nation by 2047. The chief minister reiterated the importance of the Panch Pran, which includes eradication of colonial mindsets, taking pride in national heroes, and respecting the jawans who safeguard the nation. Chief Minister Yogi inaugurated the event by lighting a ceremonial lamp and honoured the families of martyrs along with individuals who have brought pride to Uttar Pradesh. He paid tribute to soldiers who protect the countrys borders under extreme weather conditions, enduring temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. The brave soldiers of Bharat Mata remain steadfast in their duty, guarding the frontiers day and night. The police personnel are constantly patrolling, ensuring the safety of citizens and instilling a sense of security among the people, he remarked. Chief Minister Yogi asserted that if a society fails to honour the sacrifices of soldiers from the army, paramilitary and police forces or neglects the families of martyrs, it reflects a failure in fulfilling national responsibilities. During the event, families of martyred soldiers and veterans from the 1965 and 1971 wars against Pakistan were honoured. Chief Minister Yogi underlined that a civilised society cannot exist without security and that the first condition of security is good governance, as outlined by Dr BR Ambedkars constitutional principles. Honouring those who work relentlessly to ensure public safety is, therefore, a national responsibility, he added. Highlighting the remarkable progress made in Uttar Pradesh since 2017, Chief Minister Yogi stated that the system remained the same, but the face of governance had changed. He compared the pre-2017 period when lawlessness prevailed with the present where the state has transformed into a safe and investment-friendly region. He mentioned that the youth now have access to job opportunities purely based on merit, and the state has become free from communal riots, which were frequent earlier. Chief Minister Yogi further emphasised the economic progress made under his leadership, citing that while the state earlier struggled to attract Rs 40,000 crore in investments, it has now received proposals worth Rs 40 lakh crore, creating 1.25 crore jobs. He credited the improved law and order situation for this transformation, highlighting that over 1.50 lakh police vacancies were filled and the government pledged to take care of the families of martyred soldiers. The chief minister highlighted Uttar Pradeshs transformation since 2017, stating that earlier, the police would retreat while criminals acted fearlessly, but today criminals are being brought to justice. He emphasised that the state now stands for security, respect and identity. With the completion of the Ganga Expressway by year-end, Uttar Pradesh will have 55 per cent of the countrys expressways and lead in railway connectivity, airports, metro systems and municipal bodies, while proudly upholding its cultural heritage, he pointed out. Chief Minister Yogi invited everyone to the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh 2025, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, calling it a confluence of Indian culture and spirituality. He highlighted the massive infrastructure developments in Prayagraj and nearby cities in preparation for the event. Over 200 roads have been expanded, 14 new flyovers have been constructed and railway stations and airports have undergone significant upgrades, he added. He pointed out that iconic spiritual sites such as Akshayvat, Saraswati Devi temple, Bade Hanuman temple, and the Patalpuri Corridor will be more accessible to devotees. The Maha Kumbh is expected to attract a massive crowd, with facilities to accommodate even 10 crore devotees a day. A zero-liquid discharge system has been established for maintaining cleanliness, along with the construction of 1.50 lakh toilets. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, this centurys Kumbh will be known as the Digital Kumbh, blending faith and modernity. The Prayagraj Maha Kumbh will offer a unique opportunity to connect with Indias spiritual heritage, including Ayodhya, Kashi, Maa Vindhyavasini, Asini Dham, Chitrakoot, Lucknow and Shringverpur. The chief minister invited everyone to witness this grand confluence of Indian culture. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday that navy divers have been requisitioned to assist local authorities in rescuing the nine labourers trapped inside a coal mine in Dima Hasao district as the water level inside the quarry has risen to nearly 100 feet. The divers are flying in from Visakhapatnam and are expected to arrive soon, he said. ''Navy deep divers have been requisitioned to assist in the rescue operation. The water level inside the mine has risen to nearly 100 feet, according to the assessment by the stationed team. The divers are flying in from Visakhapatnam and are expected to arrive soon," the chief minister posted on 'X'. Rescue operations have been continuing but no worker has been brought out of the quarry so far, a district official said. Army personnel have been engaged to rescue the nine labourers and a relief task force comprising specialists such as divers and sappers, equipped with essential tools, reached the site in Umrangso, a defence spokesperson said. ''Engineers task force with equipment, divers and medical teams from the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles have joined the rescue efforts," he said. All efforts are underway in close coordination with the civil administration to rescue the trapped people, another official said. The chief minister thanked the army for extending their help in the rescue operations. ''Much gratitude for this quick response. We are deploying all possible efforts to ensure the safe return of our miners'', the chief minister posted on the microblogging site. NDRF and SDRF personnel are also at the site to rescue the miners trapped inside the coal mine. Two water pumping machines were also put into use to flush out the water, another official said. Since Monday, nine labourers have been trapped inside the mine at the Assam Coal Quarry, situated in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso, after a sudden gush of water flooded the site. According to employees of the quarry, there were around 15 workers inside the mine, though the authorities did not confirm the number. The chief minister listed the names of the trapped labourers - Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. 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, Sarma had said in a post on X. Eyewitness accounts and initial assessments suggest that the flooding occurred unexpectedly, leaving the workers unable to escape from the mine. Rescue operations were launched immediately with teams consisting of local authorities, emergency responders and mining experts working to locate and rescue the trapped workers, the officials said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said it was time Indian investigation agencies use modern technology and techniques to nab fugitives as he launched the 'Bharatpol' portal to facilitate faster international assistance for agencies. Speaking at the launch of 'Bharatpol at the Bharat Mandapam here, the minister underlined that the real-time interface was the most important feature of the portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). It will allow central and state agencies to easily connect with the Interpol and speed up their investigations, he said. "It is time that we use modern technology and techniques to nab and bring to justice the fugitives who absconded from India after committing a crime," Shah said. "We have to keep an eye on global challenges and update our internal systems. Bharatpol is a step in that direction," he said. He said the new portal will allow central and state probe agencies to share and obtain information on their cases from the 195 member nations of the Interpol. The three new criminal laws brought by the Modi government last year will ensure that trials against fugitives and absconders are conducted in a better manner. "I would urge the CBI to take the responsibility of training the states for capacity building regarding Bharatpol and also for the three new criminal laws," Shah said. "We need to institutionalise these systems along with the knowledge of various kinds of Interpol notices and their procedures," he said. PTI first reported about the setting up of the 'Bharatpol' portal. The CBI and the National Central Bureau of India are responsible for Interpol-related affairs. This is the question. Should people who commit horrific crimes be let off just because they come from certain ethnic groups? This is what the woke progressives who are in charge of Britains compromised and ineffective criminal justice system have been doing for decades. If you commit a crime, it should not matter what ethnic group you come from, everyone should be treated the same when it comes to justice. Punishment for rape in Pakistan under Pakistani law is either the death penalty or imprisonment of between ten and twenty-five years. For cases related to gang rape, the punishment is either the death penalty or life imprisonment. In Britain, gangs of Pakistani rapists took advantage of Britains lax justice system and committed heinous crimes against children, yet for decades these crimes were ignored and covered-up because the CPS, under Keir Starmer, did not want to look like racists. How the fuck is that justified? There is no point in importing millions upon millions of people into any country if those people do not bother to integrate, and if they are given rights above those of the indigenous population, because thats what Labour and the socialist Conservatives have done. Many of the imported unskilled migrants come from backward Third World countries where medieval cultural attitudes to women are the norm, which are wholly incompatible with the West. What Britain has turned into today is a dystopian cunt hole of a nation which is fractured beyond repair. Each town, each city now has ghettos where people who have been hurriedly fast tracked into these places are separate from the rest of the indigenous population. This applies to continental Europe as well as Britain. White flight is a very real thing, as soon as any area is inundated by a foreign (mostly third world) mass, true English people immediately vacate the area because to them, that spot has now been permanently tainted. London, for example, has always been a cosmopolitan city, but today it is not cosmopolitan, it is Third World. No one even speaks English any more in the fucking capital city. Try going on a bus, and you will have people dressed in full ethnic costumes shouting into their phones at loud volume in some language that is not English, whilst spitting all over the floor or putting their bare feet up on the seat, maybe cleaning in between their toes before flicking the bits onto someones head sitting in front of them. Dont bother driving a vehicle in London either, no one knows the highway code, or has bothered to pass a British driving test or has insured their vehicle. No one fucking indicates, they just turn. If you do manage to go over 12 MPH on a London road youre fucking lucky because the roads are either full of rickshaws or Eastern European window cleaners who will gladly flob a massive greeny on your windscreen at the traffic lights, then ask you for money after the horrific act. There is some good news though, weve got another four years of Labour government. Enjoy! A County Derry linen mill has entered liquidation after its owners failed to find a buyer. The employees of the well established firm William Clark & Sons in Upperlands were said to receive the sad news just before Christmas. According to The Gazette Official Public Record, a meeting of creditors took place on November 29 2024. Following on from this meeting resolutions for winding up, appointment of liquidators and notice of creditors began on December 13 2024. The company has been at the heart of the community for 300 years. They used their textile experience to produce exceptional, traditional fabric and to develop exciting new innovations. The textile company employed 300 people at the height of its activity however numbers have declined to just 22 people. Employees at the company were said to have been called to a meeting in November and informed that the company had been bought over by Manchester-based The Evans Group of companies in 2020 and they were searching for a buyer. Weeks later employees were told they the company was unsuccessful in securing a buyer and due to this would be closing up and employees would be entering a redundancy process. The company played a massive role in the local community and beyond. During the wars, they were a big supplier to the British navy with linen uniforms and parts they needed for the ships. Linen was a prized fabric at that time because of its hardwearing and comfortable properties. In recent times the company suffered a setback with a fire destroying one of its 150-year-old buildings on its original site in 2017. Around two years ago the companys new owners decided to move production to new purpose-built premises just two miles away to improve efficiency and provide better working conditions for staff. The company seemed to be flying high in April 2024 when their work made it as far as China. Their printed Irish linens were used to create beautiful skirts by Northern Irish fashion designer Sara ONeill. A design from the collection a black and white sketched Roisin Dubh print cumulated in the company being shortlisted for 'Textile Printer Of The Year' in the Irish Print Awards. The company said in a post on Facebook This is probably our favourite commission job to date. Despite this recent success it is understood that the demand for the companys linen quickly declined and it therefore went into liquidation at the start of December 2024. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. The referral of Derry man John McDevitts murder conviction to the Court of Appeal may have implications for a significant number of other cases from the Troubles according to his solicitor. Mr McDevitts case came before the Court of Appeal on Tuesday, December 16, and was adjourned until February 3, 2025. It was referred there on October 30 by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). Speaking to The Derry News, Patricia Coyle, of Harte Coyle Collins, Solicitors and Advocates, said the adjournment was to enable the court to see the product of disclosure requests to the CCRC. The referral by the CCRC follows a second application by Mr McDevitt lodged with the CCRC in 2019. A previous application had been lodged in 2002. John McDevitt was convicted of the murder of Private Neil Clark, a member of the British army, at Belfast Crown Court in 1986. Private Clark was killed on Easter Monday, April 23, 1984 by a single gunshot wound to the head, after exiting a land-rover which had been set on fire with a petrol bomb in Derrys Bishop Street - during an incident in which 20 to 30 shots were fired. Two other soldiers sustained gunshot wounds. Eight people were prosecuted for the offences of which only Mr McDevitt contested the case. Mr McDevitt was arrested at 7am on May 2, 1984, some two weeks after the shooting incident. He was detained in Castlereagh Police Holding Centre for five days and subjected to a rigorous schedule of 23 interviews. He was arrested with the seven other people who were also prosecuted for various offences, including murder, arson, making and possession of petrol bombs, wounding with intent and possession of firearms with intent. Mr McDevitt was the only defendant in the trial to maintain not guilty pleas in respect of all charges against him. The sole basis for the prosecution against Mr McDevitt was four alleged confession statements he had signed while in Castlereagh Police Holding Centre. Mr McDevitt alleged at the time of his trial, and continues to allege, that the false confessions were coerced as a result of the oppressive and coercive interview techniques and threats, inducement, and ill treatment he suffered while in police custody. Mr McDevitt gave evidence in his own defence before a Diplock judge sitting without a jury at the trial in 1986. He was convicted on all counts. He lodged an appeal against conviction to the Court of Criminal Appeal in 1987 on all counts. The appeal was dismissed. He applied to the CCRC in 2002. That application resulted in the CCRC unearthing evidence to support his account that a sub-machine gun was produced at interview while in Castlereagh, thereby confirming his account at trial of one of the police interviews. That account had been dismissed by the trial judge. In the first application to the CCRC in 2002 the Commission found evidence to support Mr McDevitts allegation that a gun had been produced to him by police during an interview. A gun related to another incident but matching the description given by Mr McDevitt was found to be in Castlereagh Police Holding Centre around the time he was questioned. Despite this new evidence the case was not referred to the Court of Appeal at that time. The CCRC was advised by police in 2004 that the police interviews were not recorded and that only police interview notes existed regarding what had occurred during the interviews in the Holding Centre. A further application was made to the CCRC by Mr McDevitts solicitor in 2019 relying on three new issues including questions about the credibility of some of the interviewing police officers, covert surveillance of police interviews in Castlereagh and queries as to whether the gun used in the incident was subject to GPS tracking by the security services. Patricia Coyle said at the time of the second application to the CCRC: We have submitted a fresh application to the CCRC on behalf of our client challenging the safety of the convictions dating from 1986, including in particular the murder conviction of Private Neil Clarke. This fresh application is based on new information which has only entered the public domain in the past four years regarding covert recording of police interviews by the Security Service/MI5 in Police Holding Centres. As a result of that new information, we are also now asking that the Commission consider ESDA testing the original police interview notes and alleged confession statements to check their authenticity. Thirdly we are also asking that the Commission review the character of the police interviewing witnesses on the basis that some may have been discredited in other miscarriage of justice cases which have come to light in the past 10 years in which convictions were quashed as a result of oppressive police interview techniques. We will continue to support our client in his campaign to establish his innocence. On October 30, 2024, the CCRC referred the case back to the Northern Ireland Court of Criminal Appeal on the basis that the credibility of some of the interviewing police officers in Mr McDevitts case is an issue. Those credibility issues have arisen as a result of police officers common to this case being impugned in other cases already adjudicated on by the Court of Appeal. On the decision to refer the case back to the NI Court of Criminal Appeal, Patricia Coyle solicitor said on Monday: My client and his family welcome the referral by the Commission to the NI Court of Criminal Appeal. Our firm made a previous application to the Commission on his behalf in from 2002 to 2006 which resulted in the discovery of new evidence but no referral. We lodged a second application for our client in 2019. My client looks forward to the opportunity to challenge the murder conviction before the Court of Appeal. The Ireland Funds has announced a 20,000 grant to Kinship Care NI, a Derry-based, award-winning charity providing help and support to kinship carers and their children in Northern Ireland. Part of its Heart of the Community Fund, the grant highlights the desire of The Ireland Funds to address urgent needs in the community, in particular supporting essential services to children experiencing poverty, marginalisation, and difficult circumstances. The grants are strategically allocated as a quick response at a time of year when the challenges faced by those experiencing hardship are amplified. Caitriona Fottrell, President & CEO of The Ireland Funds said: "This grant round reflects The Ireland Funds commitment to helping those facing extraordinary challenges. Through philanthropy, we bridge resource gaps, partnering with exceptional organisations to address critical needs of people living in difficult situations. We are deeply appreciative of our donors whose generosity makes this response possible." Kinship Care Northern Ireland supports children and young people raised by relatives or friends due to parental illness, addiction, or incapacity. It provides advocacy, emotional support, and practical assistance to carers, helping them navigate legal, financial, and social challenges. Kinship Care Northern Ireland works to ensure that children in these situations receive the care and stability they need while supporting the carers who provide it. 25,000 will support various initiatives to assist children and young people in need including providing nutritious breakfasts for 91 children, supporting 60 children through a Homework Club with necessary materials and snacks, and engaging 85 children in afterschool play activities and educational trips. Additionally, the grant will fund a Small Grants Programme to assist 178 children with school-related expenses, such as uniforms and educational supplies. The Ireland Funds Heart of the Community Fund highlights the power of strategic philanthropy in addressing urgent issues. By investing in these services, The Ireland Funds aims to nurture communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Severe flooding and snow are causing travel disruption as weather warnings remain in force. Road and rail links have been closed while Manchester and Bristol airports were forced to suspend flights earlier on Tuesday because of the conditions. A yellow snow and ice warning is in place across most of south-west England and Wales, coastal parts of North Wales and Merseyside and parts of north-west England and the West Midlands, until 10am on Tuesday. The same warning is in place for western and northern parts of Scotland until midday, and in Northern Ireland until 11am. A critical incident has been declared by East Midlands Ambulance for the first time ever, with flooding partly responsible for the level of escalation. A major incident was declared by authorities in Lincolnshire on Monday night, with a warning that more flooding could occur on Tuesday. Lincolnshire Resilience Forum said 40 flood warnings and 29 flood alerts were in place across the county, with reports of 62 properties internally flooded. East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EMAS) has this evening declared a critical incident (as at 18.00 hours, Monday 6 January 2025). More information on what this means is on our website: https://t.co/jAOwteKGhr pic.twitter.com/t0I6zHDf4u East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust (@EMASNHSTrust) January 6, 2025 We are keeping a really close watch on this as it develops because we know that there might potentially be more flooding, particularly in areas which may be affected by tidal waters, a statement said. It said emergency services were on standby at Greatford, near Stamford, to monitor the West Glen River, which it said threatened to inundate 49 properties in the area. The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning, meaning danger to life, for the River Soar covering caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire. At 8.10am on Tuesday, 190 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 292 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, were active across England. National Resources Wales has 15 flood alerts in place. National Highways said the A1 in Lincolnshire is closed between the B6326 near Newark-on-Trent and the B1174 near Grantham because of extensive flooding, while the A628 Woodhead Pass in South Yorkshire/Derbyshire is shut between the A616 for Flouch and the A57 for Hollingworth because of snow. The snow and ice warning across England and Wales has been extended into more of the southern Pennines and also coastal parts of North Wales and Merseyside For more information about all our warnings, please click here: https://t.co/hdQyRyfX0m pic.twitter.com/LyUAvIKFOS Met Office (@metoffice) January 7, 2025 Flooding means all rail lines are closed between Peterborough and Leicester, affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services. Northern said a fault with the signalling system means no trains can run between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester airport. Great Western Railway said flooding has closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall. Ireland has upgraded its weather warning amid an extremely cold snap across the island. Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as minus 8C while a Status Orange low temperature and ice warning was announced for almost all of the Republic of Ireland. Irish national weather agency Met Eireann said the advisory applies between 8pm on Tuesday and 10am on Wednesday, applying nationwide except for Donegal, Dublin, Louth and Wexford. This will be followed by a further warning for every county except for Donegal between 6pm Wednesday and 11am Thursday. It means that there will be extremely cold nights with widespread frost, ice and lying snow. The measure comes on top of a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning, applying to the entire country until 6am on Friday. Status Orange Low Temperature/Ice warning for Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster, Connacht Extremely cold with widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow. Valid: 20:00 Tuesday 07/01 to 10:00 Wednesday pic.twitter.com/ykaN3rYGD1 Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 7, 2025 The Electricity Supply Board said 10,000 of its customers were without power by 7am on Tuesday while thousands were without access to water. Temperatures are expected to struggle to get above freezing during the day with transport disruption and hazardous travelling conditions. A separate Yellow level warning for snow and ice for the entire country was due to expire at noon on Tuesday. Status Orange Low Temperature/Ice warning for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster, Connacht Extremely cold with widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow. Valid: 18:00 Wednesday 08/01/2025 to 11:00 Thursday 09/01/2025 More here https://t.co/Vj0yBkGA0J pic.twitter.com/BNKGxa0yvJ Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 7, 2025 Tuesday is set to have the highest temperatures of zero to 5C. Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock said it will be bitterly cold overnight into Wednesday, adding that a few wintry showers will affect parts of the north and west. The lowest temperatures are expected to be minus 8C to minus 3C generally, although it could dip even lower in some regions, with a severe frost and icy stretches. The agency is also warning of the risk of freezing fog developing over the coming days. Temperatures are predicted to increase through Thursday night and Friday as rain, sleet and snow moves north-eastwards over the country, becoming milder for the weekend. The cold snap had seen tens of thousands of people without water and electricity, with crews continue to work to restore access to the services for the remaining affected homes and businesses on Tuesday. The severe weather also prompted the Health Service Executive to cancel non-urgent appointments in the south-west of the country. The Irish Defence Forces were deployed on Monday to assist with transporting patients and essential healthcare workers amid hazardous conditions. Some public transport services have been curtailed and cancelled while schools in the worst-affected parts of the country also took the decision to close, with the situation being assessed on a morning-by-morning basis. A Status Yellow snow and ice warning was put in place for Northern Ireland by the UK Met Office, expiring at 11am on Tuesday, and followed shortly after by a similar warning for between 3pm until midday on Wednesday. Dozens of special welcome packs have been handed out to new families making east Belfast their home. They include a small model of the world famous Harland and Wolff cranes, which dominate the local skyline, as well as Tayto crisps. The initiative is being delivered by the East Belfast Race Relations Network in an effort to welcome all to the area. It is part of a project by the East Belfast Community Development Agency aided through a 497,197 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund. Katy Allen, who works on the ground with East Belfast Community Development Agency, said the area like many in Northern Ireland is becoming increasingly diverse, adding it is important for all residents to feel welcome. Mental health in particular can be badly affected after a big change. Theres a clear need for a resource for people to get support and feel welcome. So, weve been working with East Belfast Race Relations Network for over a year on a Welcome Pack which is personally delivered, she said. The packs are for anyone who is new to east Belfast, whether youre from another part of the city, or another part of the world. Its the personal and small things that make a big difference and that is definitely the idea here. Theres a welcome letter and information on all local support and services, useful facts like when to put your bin out and the nearest community centre, park, doctor and shop. We also include some Tayto crisps and an ornament of the Harland and Wolff cranes, its a personal touch which shows people they are welcome here, and this just means so much. One young mother and her family who recently moved to east Belfast described moving house as a very stressful time for them, adding she was very grateful for the welcome pack. It made the transition easier, and I have connected in with Family Support Groups which has helped me to feel settled, she said. Ms Allen described the support from the National Lottery Community Fund as vital both in terms of the welcome pack as well as helping organisations to work together and share resources, including the co-ordinating the East Belfast Anti-Poverty Alliance. Were always asking for ideas on how we could improve the packs and will regularly update the contents based on feedback. Our welcome letter is available in 13 languages, and growing, she added. A person delivering a big yellow box is hard to forget or miss, so those receiving them also meet a friendly face. Everyone who gets one finds it so useful and weve been delighted with the response so far. If you would like more information, please contact East Belfast Community Development Agency on 028 9045 1512 or email admin@ebcda.org. Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald has paid tribute to lifelong Irish republican Ted Howell as a patriot during his funeral in west Belfast. Ms McDonald, as well as Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill and former president Gerry Adams took turns helping to carry Mr Howells coffin from his family home to Milltown cemetery where he was laid to rest alongside his wife. Mr Howell, one of the partys key backroom figures through political negotiations and the Stormont Assembly, died at the age of 78 last week. His funeral heard that mourners came from across the world, including the United States, Canada, Spain and South Africa to attend. The funeral service was conducted by Father Gary Donegan at Mr Howells home, and broadcast from the house to those gathered outside in falling snow on Tuesday morning before the procession to the cemetery. Mr Howell was a strategist and negotiator for Sinn Fein and believed to be a close adviser to Mr Adams. He took part in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations and talks on the New Decade/New Approach powersharing deal in 2020. He also served as Sinn Feins director of foreign affairs during the Troubles and was a member of the partys ard comhairle (national executive). During the so-called cash for ash inquiry, it emerged that Sinn Feins finance minister at Stormont, Mairtin O Muilleoir, had sought approval from Mr Howell to sign off on a business plan for the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. This was used to criticise Sinn Fein as a party ultimately controlled by shadowy figures. Speaking at Milltown, Ms McDonald said tributes have been paid to Mr Howell from people across the world. Ted Howell was a patriot, a family man, a proud Belfast man, a united Irelander, an internationalist and it is no surprise that we have travelled from the four corners of Ireland but also from Canada, from the US, from Britain, from the Basque country and that messages have poured in to Teds family and friends from all four corners of the globe to recognise this extraordinary man, she said. Ted Howell was a significant figure in the Irish struggle for freedom from his earliest days and he remained a true and faithful servant of our struggle until his very very last. Mr Adams, described as a lifelong friend of Mr Howell, recalled sharing a bunk bed while they were both interned at Long Kesh prison camp in the 1970s. All of us will have stories of Ted his family members, his lifelong friends, his neighbours, his comrades, his local butcher, his drinking companions, former prisoners, people from the Felons Club or the Horseshoe bar, Gaza or the Basque country, Long Kesh or London or the USA, Canada or South Africa, he said. Stories about his humour, his generosity, his loyalty, his lifelong commitment to republicanism and those of us who worked with him for decades value his friendship and his mischief making, his craic and his insights into the human condition. Teds life was full and he loved life, and no oration can do justice to him. Mr Adams went on to recall Mr Howell living in Canada for just a couple of months, and returning to Belfast amid the civil rights campaign and saw a warzone develop following the events including the battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday in Londonderry and the introduction of internment. Ted took part in protest marches then he joined the Irish Republican Army, he said. In March 1972 he was arrested, he was interned, first on the prison ship Maidstone and then in Long Kesh camp. Mr Adams described the 1980s as being a significant decade of change for Sinn Fein building a peace strategy, talks with then SDLP leader John Hume and moving into the 1990s when multi party talks resulted in the signing of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Ted was at the heart of it all, he said. Ted had great politics . he understood strategy and the need for the national question to be constantly at the centre of Sinn Feins strategy and of all our work. He was a member of the partys uniting Ireland committee up until his death. He was also deeply involved in Sinn Feins international outreach, he sought help for the Irish cause but also provided help to other liberation struggles and peace processes. Ted was one of us, he was the best of us. Toyota's US$1 million Trump inauguration pledge signals Mexico production concerns Toyota has announced a US$1 million donation toward the upcoming US presidential inauguration, joining American automakers Ford and General Motors in similar commitments. This strategic move reflects Toyota's efforts to maintain positive relations in the US market amid previous tensions over Mexican manufacturing plans and potential tariffs. In December 2024, the Japanese automaker committed US$1 million to support the presidential inauguration scheduled for January 20, 2025. The decision comes as Toyota aims to strengthen its position following earlier criticisms during Trump's 2017-2021 presidency. According to reports from Nikkei Asia and Reuters, Toyota emphasized that the donation demonstrates its commitment as a US market operator to supporting significant national events, while also considering industry peers' actions. Ford Motor and General Motors had already pledged US$1 million each before Toyota's announcement. The American manufacturers will also provide vehicles for the inauguration ceremony, though Toyota has not indicated similar plans. Beyond the automotive sector, major technology companies including AWS and Meta have announced comparable donations. The donation comes as Trump has declared his intention to impose a 25% tariff on all imported goods from Mexico and Canada upon taking office, a policy that could significantly impact automakers operating factories in Mexico that serve the US market. This isn't the first time Toyota has faced such challenges. In January 2017, Trump criticized Toyota's plans to build a Mexican factory for US-bound Corolla production, threatening tariffs. In response, Toyota announced a US$10 billion US investment over five years and later partnered with Mazda to establish an Alabama plant for domestic Corolla production. However, despite previous tensions, Toyota announced on November 8, 2024, a US$1.45 billion investment to expand production of next-generation Tacoma trucks in Mexico, including at the previously contested factory. Industry observers note that Trump's proposed 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian-manufactured vehicles could significantly impact Toyota, particularly given their increased production plans in Mexico. The effectiveness of the inauguration donation remains uncertain. A senior Toyota executive has indicated that the company needs to continue emphasizing its contributions to US manufacturing. Toyota currently operates ten US facilities, including five assembly plants and five parts factories. Their 2023 domestic production reached approximately 1.2 million vehicles, representing over half of their US sales. Notably, these facilities are predominantly located in states that supported Trump in the 2024 election. The stakes are particularly high for Toyota, which has found success in the US market with its hybrid electric vehicles, boosting profitability despite challenges in China. Any significant market disruption could leave Toyota facing difficulties in both its American and Chinese operations. US Department of Defense blacklists Tencent, CATL, and CXMT amid escalating tech tension The US Department of Defense (DoD) has added Tencent Holdings, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), and ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) to its blacklist of entities allegedly tied to the Chinese military. This annual update to the Section 1260H list now includes 134 companies, as published on the Federal Register's website. US expands defense blacklist, Tightens supply chain rules Reports from Reuters, the Financial Times, and Nikkei Asia reveal that starting in 2024, blacklisted companies will be barred from commercial cooperation with the DoD. By June 2026, the DoD will prohibit procurement from these firms, and by 2027, products containing components from the blacklist will be excluded from supply chains. The updated blacklist also includes IoT module maker Quectel and drone manufacturer Autel Robotics, alongside Tencent, CATL, and CXMT. Gene sequencing equipment maker MGI Tech and cell banking specialist Origincell Technology are new additions to the blacklist. Blacklisted firms reject allegations, highlight business impacts Tencent responded by calling the decision a mistake, stating it is not a military company or supplier and has no ties to the Chinese military. The company pledged to work with the DoD to clarify misunderstandings, emphasizing that the blacklist is distinct from sanctions or export control lists, with no direct business impact. Despite this, Tencent's US stock dropped nearly 10% following the announcement. CATL also called its inclusion on the blacklist a mistake, asserting it has no military-related activities. The company, which controls nearly 38% of the global EV battery market, supplies Tesla and collaborates with Tesla and Ford to license its battery technology for US-based production. Quectel denied any military ties and plans to request a review from the DoD. Autel Robotics, MGI Tech, and Origincell Technology have not yet commented. The DoD also added SenseTime to the "Chinese Military Companies (CMC)" list. SenseTime strongly opposed the decision, calling it baseless, and pledged to engage with stakeholders to protect its interests and those of its shareholders. The DoD's actions are seen as a response to China's "Military-Civil Fusion (MCF)" strategy, which leverages private enterprises, academia, and research to acquire advanced military technologies amid rising US-China tensions. While the Section 1260H list does not trigger immediate sanctions from the US Department of Treasury or Commerce, it is likely to harm the listed companies' reputations and warns US businesses of the risks of working with them. Craig Singleton, a senior China expert at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, stated that blacklisting these firms increases scrutiny on US-China tech collaborations, as these companies play key roles in China's military modernization. He added that the US is expanding its scope of restrictions on sensitive technologies beyond a few key areas, as per Foreign Policy. Blacklist updates reflect escalating US-China tech export controls The updated blacklist includes new additions but also removes six companies: Beijing Megvii Technology, China Marine Information Electronics, China Railway Construction, China State Construction Group, China Telecommunications, and Shenzhen Consys Science & Technology, as they no longer meet the criteria. However, drone leader DJI and lidar maker Hesai Technologies remain on the list. The US has ramped up export controls in recent years to restrict China's development of advanced semiconductors and AI for military use. In response, China has tightened its export controls on key raw materials, including a ban on exports to the US of metal minerals essential for semiconductor production and military equipment. The future is here: MSI's CES 2025 lineup redefines AI and gaming CES 2025 serves as the global stage where cutting-edge technology meets visionary thinking, and MSI is proud to take its place among the innovators shaping tomorrow. Known for pioneering AI advancements in computing and gaming, MSI invites you to explore the full potential of artificial intelligence from January 7-10 at Veronese 2403-2406. Visitors will embark on an immersive journey, exploring how artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrated into our new lineup. Don't just attend CESengage with MSI's vision for the future and walk away inspired by the possibilities! Credit: MSI MSI proudly introduces its latest AI innovation, the AI Robot. Built with NVIDIA ACE, this software integrates a locally deployed small language model directly into the system. With AI Robot, users can control their systems using natural language without requiring an internet connection. This provides a more convenient and intuitive way to set up and manage your laptop or desktop. "AI is more than a feature; it's a force that transforms experiences," said Sam Chern, MSI Vice President of Marketing. "MSI's CES 2025 lineup harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to create tools that learn, adapt, and empower users. Whether it's powering smarter gaming, boosting creativity, or making everyday tasks a little easier, we've built AI into our products to optimize performance, simplify workflows, and deliver experiences that feel tailor-made for you. MSI is proud to be at the forefront, driving the evolution of the AI-powered era." Join MSI at CES 2025 Seize the chance to explore MSI's groundbreaking innovations! Date: January 7-10, 2025 Location 1: Veronese 2403-2406, Level 2, Halls A-D, Venetian Expo Location 2: Booth 3075, West Hall, LVCC Highlights to Expect at the MSI Booth The stage is set, and the spotlight shines brightjoin the innovation revolution at CES 2025! Discover the magic as MSI unveils its cutting-edge new lineup and celebrates its CES Innovation Award winners. Here's a sneak peek at what awaits you! CES 2025 Innovation Awards Honoree: MSI Claw 8 AI+ Gaming Handheld Awarded the prestigious CES Innovation Award in the "Gaming & Esports" category, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ combines artistry and cutting-edge technology to redefine the gaming experience. Inspired by the wind-sculpted forms of desert rocks, its sandstorm design captures the transformative essence of gaming while preserving MSI's iconic brand identity. Engineered for ergonomic perfection, the Claw 8 AI+ adapts to the natural contours of the hand, providing unparalleled comfort, intuitiveness, and precise control for all hand sizes. Its well-balanced internal weighting enhances ease of use, while redesigned sticks, bumpers, D-pad, and hall-effect triggers deliver smoother operation and precise, accurate button presses. The Claw 8 AI+ is powered by updated MSI Center M software, offering an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation for seamless handheld device management. Equipped with dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, the Claw 8 AI+ and Claw 7 AI+ deliver unparalleled I/O support, making them versatile mini-PCs with integrated Copilot+ capabilities. CES 2025 Innovation Awards Honoree: MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED Gaming Monitor The world's first DP 2.1 27" 4K 240Hz QD-OLED - MPG 272URX QD-OLED, equipped with a cutting-edge 5-layer tandem OLED panel featuring EL Gen 3 technology. This innovative display offers stunning clarity with 166 PPI and full-bandwidth DP 2.1a connectivity, setting a new standard in gaming visuals. Recognized for its groundbreaking design and performance, it has earned the prestigious CES Innovation Award. With G-SYNC Compatible support, the monitor ensures smoother, tear-free gaming with reduced lag and full compatibility with future hardware. Additionally, MSI's exclusive AI Navigator harnesses AI technology to deliver smarter, more immersive gaming experiences. Continuing to redefine gaming technology, MSI combines enhanced visuals, speed, and intelligence in its monitors, empowering gamers and creators to achieve their best." Credit: MSI MSI Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition Norse Myth A Fusion of Art and Extreme Power MSI unveils the limited Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition Norse Myth, a masterpiece of design inspired by Nordic mythology. Featuring intricate hand-drawn artwork and Nordic runes, this laptop seamlessly blends artistic expression with cutting-edge performance. Powered by the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series laptop GPUs and Intel Core Ultra 200HX Series processors, the Titan 18 HX leverages MSI OverBoost Ultra technology to deliver an astounding 270W of peak performance. Its advanced vapor chamber cooling and dedicated SSD thermal design ensure sustained peak performance over extended use. Storage capabilities are taken to the next level with Super RAID 5 technology, combining Gen5 and Gen4 SSDs for lightning-fast data access. This limited-edition laptop also includes exclusive accessories, perfectly embodying the union of innovation and mythology. MSI Raider, Vector, and Stealth Series: The New Benchmark in Laptop Performance Experience the future of gaming and productivity with MSI's upgraded Raider and Vector series. Powered by the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series laptop GPUs and paired with Intel Core Ultra 200HX Series or AMD Ryzen 9000 HX Series processors, these laptops deliver an exceptional 260W system performance, enhanced by MSI OverBoost technology. Dedicated SSD cooling ensures peak stability even during the most demanding tasks. The Stealth series, featuring the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series laptop GPUs and the latest Intel Core Ultra 200HX Series or AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, takes performance to a new level. Select models with Ryzen AI 300 Series processors are Copilot+ PC certified, empowering advanced AI functionalities with top-tier performance. The All-New MSI Venture/VenturePro Series: The Ultimate Business and Productivity Solution MSI introduces the versatile Venture/VenturePro Series, designed to empower professionals. Featuring powerful CPUs and screen sizes from 14" to 17", this lineup caters to diverse user needs. The VenturePro models include discrete GPU options for enhanced productivity and seamless creative performance. With an exclusive battery boost feature delivering an additional 4-5 hours of power, you can stay productive anytime, anywhere. MSI Introduces Next-Gen NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Graphics Cards for the AI Era MSI has unveiled its groundbreaking NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics cards, featuring cutting-edge designs like Project SL, Project S, Project V, Project Trio, Project X, and Project I. Engineered with enhanced thermal solutions, the cards are crafted to meet the high-performance demands of next-gen GPUs, delivering advanced cooling and peak performance. Powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs bring game-changing capabilities to gamers and creators. Equipped with a massive level of AI horsepower, the RTX 50 Series enables new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Multiply performance with NVIDIA DLSS 4, generate images at unprecedented speed, and unleash creativity with NVIDIA Studio. Plus, access NVIDIA NIM microservices state-of-the-art AI models that let enthusiasts and developers build AI assistants, agents, and workflows with peak performance on NIM-ready systems. Leading the lineup, Project SL boasts an advanced hybrid cooling system paired with a robust 360mm radiator, effortlessly managing intensive workloads with exceptional efficiency. Project S and Project V leverage the state-of-the-art Hyper Frozr thermal design and optimized airflow, delivering exceptional cooling and superior performance. With each graphics card tailored to specific user scenarios, MSI GeForce RTX 50 Series lineup offers exceptional versatility, providing optimal solutions for virtually every need in the AI-driven era. For DIY PC gamers who want to maintain great performance in a smaller footprint, MSI Project I and Project X GeForce RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5070 graphics cards meet the SFF-Ready Enthusiast GeForce Card size guideline - and are compatible with numerous mITX and mATX case options. MSI MEG VISION X AI: The Ultimate AI Gaming Desktop A proud double honoree of the CES 2025 Innovation Award, the MSI MEG VISION X AI gaming desktop redefines performance with advanced Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and the latest NVIDIA graphics. Its innovative 13" AI HMI touchscreen, featuring a built-in microphone and speaker, supports voice interaction, delivering seamless user efficiency. Key features include real-time hardware monitoring, intelligent mode switching, and effortless control of MSI gaming monitor settings. With Silent Storm Cooling AI, the system dynamically adjusts fan speeds using advanced AI algorithms, ensuring peak performance while maintaining quiet operation. MSI MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50 Gaming Monitor The MSI MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, unveiled at CES 2025, breaks barriers as the world's first DP 2.1a QHD 500Hz monitor. Powered by UHBR20 DP 2.1 technology with 80Gbps bandwidth, it delivers flawless QHD resolution at an unprecedented 500Hz refresh rate. With G-Sync Compatible support, gamers can enjoy ultra-smooth, tear-free performance and future-proof compatibility. VESA Certified DisplayHDR True Black 500 ensures rich, true blacks, while ClearMR 21000 delivers unparalleled motion clarity. MSI's exclusive AI Navigator adds a layer of intelligent immersion, revolutionizing the gaming experience for players who demand the best. MSI Unveils New Series Motherboards: Performance Meets Accessibility MSI is proud to unveil its latest lineup of motherboards designed for both Intel's and AMD's B chipset series. These motherboards deliver a perfect blend of performance and innovation and are affordable. They are built to support the Intel CoreTM Ultra Processors(Series 2) and AMD RyzenTM 9000 Series Processors with the latest connectivity and technology, empowering mainstream users, gamers, and creators with next-level computing capabilities while ensuring exceptional reliability and ease of use. Ease of use remains a cornerstone of MSI's motherboard design philosophy. The new lineup introduces EZ DIY features to simplify the PC building experience. Innovations like EZ PCIe Release, EZ PCIe Clip II, EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II, EZ M.2 Clip II, EZ Antenna, and pre-installed I/O shields make component installation and upgrades effortless, catering to both first-time builders and experienced enthusiasts. Credit: MSI MSI Cubi NUC AI Series Mini PC The MSI Cubi NUC AI+ 2M redefines compact computing with powerful AI-driven tools, a fingerprint power button, and a dedicated Copilot button for effortless productivity. Integrated microphone and speaker capabilities further enhance the user experience. For those who prefer a smaller footprint, the Cubi NUC AI 1UM offers a streamlined alternative without compromising functionality. Both models feature MSI Power Link support and a wide range of connectivity options, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB 10Gbps Type-A ports, HDMI, and dual 2.5G LAN ports, unlocking superior AI performance and seamless multitasking. MSI PROJECT ZERO X The Pinnacle of Back-Connect Panoramic PC Design MSI PROJECT ZERO X revolutionizes DIY PC building with an evolved Back-Connect system. By reimagining the motherboard design, it consolidates all cables at the back, creating a streamlined, four-sided panoramic showcase free from clutter. Its four-sided glass panel not only enhances display versatility but also empowers users to customize and highlight their unique style. Redefine your gaming setup with MSI PROJECT ZERO X, where innovation meets personal expression! MSI MEG Ai1600T PCIE5 & MPG A1250GS PCIE5 Power Supplies Elevate and Evolve Unleash ultimate power with the MEG Ai1600T PCIE5 and MPG A1250GS PCIE5 power supplies, engineered for high-end GPUs and seamless performance. Equipped with 105C-rated Japanese capacitors and whisper-quiet fans, they meet ATX 3.1 and PCIe CEM 5.1 standards and feature two dual-color 12V-2x6 cables. The MEG Ai1600T PCIE5 shines with SiC-MOSFET technology and interleaved PFC, delivering unparalleled efficiency and server-grade stability. Backed by 80 Plus, Cybernetics, and PPLP certifications, these power supplies are built to power AI computing and cutting-edge AI PCs. Unleashing the Next Generation of MSI Gear MSI Gear, the evolution of MSI Gaming Gear, introduces a dynamic range of peripherals crafted for gamers, professionals, and creatives alike. The STRIKE wireless keyboard offers hot-swappable keys and exclusive MSI SONIC switches, delivering unparalleled performance and customization. VERSA wireless mice provide precision and control with an impressive 26,000 DPI and ergonomic versatility. FORCE wireless controllers feature hall effect sensors, responsive thumbsticks, and customizable rear buttons, ensuring quick, accurate reactions in every scenario. Completing the lineup, the MAESTRO headset combines crystal-clear communication with immersive, high-resolution audio for an unparalleled sound experience. Lightweight designs, ultra-low latency, and cross-platform connectivity ensure that MSI Gear empowers seamless performance, whether gaming, working, or creating. MSI DATAMAG 40Gbps Portable SSD: Blazing Speed, Ultimate Versatility Expanding on the innovative design of the DATAMAG 20Gbps, the MSI DATAMAG 40Gbps portable SSD sets a new standard in high-speed storage with transfer rates of up to 40Gbps. Encased in a sleek and durable aluminum shell, it's the perfect solution for iPhones, PCs, consoles, and more. Powered by the advanced PHISON U21 controller and leveraging the latest USB 4.0 technology, this SSD delivers unmatched speed and reliability. Whether you're expanding your storage or capturing high-quality video, the DATAMAG 40Gbps ensures seamless performance for every need. MSI Hyper 80 Dual DC Fast Charger MSI unveils the Hyper 80 Dual, an 80kW DC fast charger ideal for venues with 12 hour vehicle stays, like malls and restaurants. Its dual-gun design delivers full power to one vehicle or smartly splits power between two. Compatible with CCS1 and CCS2, it features a swing-arm system for cable longevity. Supporting OCPP 1.6J and ISO 15118, it offers intelligent energy management and plug-and-charge functionality. Users can operate it via RFID, touchscreen, or app, ensuring convenience and efficiency. The Hyper 80 Dual redefines fast charging for high-traffic locations, blending performance, durability, and ease of use. MSI EV & Eco Series AC Chargers, EZgo Portable Charger The MSI EV Series AC Charger delivers style and versatility for all EVs, with up to 14 kW adjustable power (8 A60 A) and support for Type 1 (SAE J1772), Type 2 (IEC-62196), and NACS cables. Featuring AI license plate recognition, a 7-inch display, and app integration, it enables QR payments, scheduling, and RFID access. Perfect for residential and commercial use. The MSI Eco Series AC Charger combines compact design with impressive performance, delivering up to 22 kW of fast charging power. With 3-phase power, 3-way power input, and flexible tethered or socket options, it ensures easy installation and enhanced efficiency for end-users, installers, and charging station operators. Perfect for travel or home use, the MSI EZgo Portable Charger delivers up to 11 kW charging with 3-phase power. Its 1.8-inch display, Bluetooth, and mobile app enable effortless scheduling and control. Featuring IP66 dust and water resistance, 1.6T weight tolerance, and replaceable adapters for 8 regions, the EZgo ensures durability, versatility, and hassle-free operationno installation needed. 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. Tencent addresses US Department of Defense blacklist inclusion amid market fallout The US Department of Defense (DoD) has classified Tencent Holdings and other Chinese companies as "Chinese military companies operating in the United States." According to a federal register filing from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (OUSD) for Acquisition and Sustainment, the designation seeks to identify entities allegedly tied to or supporting the Chinese military. Although this designation does not directly impose sanctions, it discourages US firms from engaging with the listed companies, as noted by Bloomberg. Tencent issued a statement calling the designation "clearly a mistake," emphasizing its non-military operations. Under the William M. Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, the Deputy Secretary of Defense classified these firms as "Chinese military companies (CMC)." The law mandates annual updates to the list through 2030, targeting businesses suspected of ties to the Chinese military, according to Investing.com. Tencent ADR plunge and responses from listed companies The designation triggered a sharp market reaction, with Tencent's American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) plunging 7.8% to $49.01 (figures are accurate as of the time of publication and may be subject to change), their largest single-day decline in three months, as reported by Yahoo Finance and Reuters. Prosus NV, which owns a 25% stake in Tencent, also saw its shares drop by 9.21%. The list also includes companies such as CATL, SenseTime, and Autel Robotics. CATL dismissed the classification, asserting it is a private company with no military ties and has been publicly listed since 2018. Autel Robotics, meanwhile, did not respond to BNN Bloomberg's request for comment. Successful removal cases and Tencent's resilience amid headwinds Although the DoD's list is largely symbolic, it poses reputational and commercial risks for listed companies. However, some Chinese firms have successfully secured removals. Xiaomi, for instance, was delisted in 2021 after negotiating with the US government. Likewise, Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment (AMEC) pursued legal action and was removed by the end of 2024. Listed companies can request a reevaluation of their designation. Recently, six firms, including Beijing Megvii Technology, China Marine Information Electronics, China Railway Construction, China State Construction Group, China Telecommunications, and Shenzhen Consys Science & Technology, were delisted. This highlights the potential for removal through negotiation or legal action. Despite these challenges, Tencent has shown resilience. In 2023, its Hong Kong-listed shares surged over 42%, supported by growth in gaming and financial technology. While domestic consumption in China slowed, Tencent outperformed many rivals, showcasing its ability to adapt to a challenging market. Tencent's official response to inclusion on the Section 1260H list Tencent's stock decline highlights concerns over the designation's impact on its US business operations. Being labeled a CMC poses reputational risks and raises the possibility of future sanctions or restrictions, as reported by HKET. Tencent, in a January 7 statement to Yicai Global, called its inclusion on the list "clearly a mistake," clarifying that it is neither a military enterprise nor a supplier. The company stated that the designation does not affect its operations but pledged to work with US authorities to resolve the issue. Analysts anticipate negotiations and short-term market volatility While the DoD designation has placed near-term pressure on Tencent, analysts believe Tencent will seek a resolution through negotiations. Past cases of delisted firms offer optimism that legal or diplomatic efforts could yield similar results. Market watchers predict the designation will dampen investor sentiment and cause short-term share price volatility. However, Tencent is expected to engage with the DoD to negotiate removal from the list. 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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 Sinn Fein has defended a decision to leave two party candidates out of a list of its Seanad hopefuls by saying it wants to elect the strongest team possible. The Sinn Fein representatives, Dublin Councillor Daithi Doolan and current Senator Paul Gavan, were both nominated for the Seanad Labour panel through the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU). However, in a social media post announcing Sinn Feins candidates for the upcoming Seanad elections, former TD Chris Andrews and Laois-based representative Maria McCormack were listed and pictured as the partys only hopefuls for the Labour Panel. The Labour Panel elects 11 senators, at least four of whom must come from nominations through the Oireachtas and at least four through nominating bodies like ICTU. Meet Sinn Feins six candidates for the upcoming Seanad Eireann elections. Industrial and commercial panel Conor Murphy MLACultural and educational panel Pauline TullyAgricultural panel Joanne Collins 1/2 pic.twitter.com/JnOGjBtut3 Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) January 6, 2025 Asked about the complete omission of Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan from the social media announcement, the Sinn Fein press office drew a distinction between candidates put forward by the party and those nominated through external bodies. It confirmed Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan had independently received nominations from ICTU, while Mr Andrews and Ms McCormack were nominated by the party. However, Mr Gavan had previously been included in the partys candidate announcement for the 2020 Seanad elections, despite being put forward under the same external nomination process on that occasion. Pressed on this discrepancy, a party spokesman told the PA news agency: Our aim is to elect the strongest Sinn Fein team possible. Mr Doolan said he had successfully sought a nomination from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, having been an active member of Unite for more than 20 years. He said: I have a long track record of working with other union members and in the spirit of cross party co-operation on key issues, including Right to Water, support for Dublin Fire Brigade workers, and resolving the pension claims of local authority staff. I am confident this will attract support beyond Sinn Fein colleagues. Mr Gavan did not respond to a request for comment. As reports of human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, continue to rise in China, the situation bears an eerie resemblance to the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic five years ago. With the pandemic in the back of many people's minds, such reports of HMPV have caused some anxiety among people across the country who are questioning how this virus will, or already is, affecting Ireland. Rest assured, although the situation surrounding the spread of the virus and its symptoms may seem similar to Covid-19, medical experts say that it is not a cause for major concern. What is HMPV and what are the symptoms? HMPV is actually not a new virus, it was first identified in 2001 in The Netherlands. READ NEXT: 17 people killed on Irish roads over Christmas and over 900 drivers found under the influence The virus commonly spreads during late winter and early spring and as such, unlike what we saw when Covid-19 first appeared, HMPV already spreads seasonally across Europe, including Ireland. It is a form of virus which leads to a mild upper respiratory tract infection, much like the common cold or flu. It spreads through direct contact between people or when someone touches surfaces contaminated by the virus. For many people who have the virus, symptoms will be almost indistinguishable from the flu and should last roughly 2-5 days. Some of the most predominant symptoms include a cough, fever and nasal congestion. Who are most vulnerable? As is typically the case with the flu, very young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to HMPV. Although people of all ages may develop complications from the virus, these groups are most susceptible to HMPV developing into bronchitis, bronchiolitis or pneumonia. It is worth noting that having a history of asthma, COPD or emphysema does not mean someone is more likely to contract the virus, but such diseases can make the symptoms more severe. The same can also be said for those with weakened immune symptoms such as people undergoing chemotherapy. According the American Lung Association, most children who contract the virus are age 5 and under. A small number of children (5-16%) may develop lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia. So should I be worried about the recent surges in China? Overall, medical experts advise caution against the virus for vulnerable people, but the majority of us need not panic. The virus is so common that most people will have contracted it in childhood and may become infected several times throughout their life. The spikes seen in China are likely connected to the low temperatures in recent weeks - conditions which experts believe the virus, like most cold viruses, thrive in. If people are concerned, the usual cold and flu precaution measures also apply to HMPV. This includes staying home if you are unwell and maintaining good hygiene practises like washing your hands and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Sinn Fein senator Paul Gavan has announced he will not be seeking re-election in the Seanad election. It comes after Sinn Fein defended a decision to leave Mr Gavan and another party candidate off a list of its Seanad hopefuls by saying it wanted to elect the strongest team possible. Mr Gavan and councillor Daithi Doolan were nominated for the Seanad Labour Panel through the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU). Meet Sinn Feins six candidates for the upcoming Seanad Eireann elections. Industrial and commercial panel Conor Murphy MLACultural and educational panel Pauline TullyAgricultural panel Joanne Collins 1/2 pic.twitter.com/JnOGjBtut3 Sinn Fein (@sinnfeinireland) January 6, 2025 However, in a social media post announcing Sinn Feins candidates for the Seanad elections on Monday, former TD Chris Andrews and Laois-based representative Maria McCormack were listed and pictured as the partys only hopefuls for the Labour Panel. The Labour Panel elects 11 senators, at least four of whom must come from nominations through the Oireachtas and at least four through nominating bodies like ICTU. Asked about the omission of Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan, the Sinn Fein press office drew a distinction between candidates put forward by the party and those nominated through external bodies. It confirmed Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan had independently received nominations from ICTU, while Mr Andrews and Ms McCormack were nominated by the party. Mr Gavan was included in the partys candidate announcement for the 2020 Seanad elections, despite being put forward under the same external nomination process on that occasion. Pressed on this discrepancy, a party spokesman told the PA news agency: Our aim is to elect the strongest Sinn Fein team possible. Hours later, Sinn Fein announced that Mr Gavan would not be actively seeking re-election despite the ICTU nomination. In a statement released by the party, he said: Having taken time over Christmas to consider matters, I do not believe there is anything to be gained by actively contesting for a seat on the Labour Panel. The party has nominated and endorsed two other candidates for this panel. A spokeswoman for ICTU said the organisation wished Mr Gavan well in the future and thanked him for his work in the Seanad as well as a trade union official. ICTU noted that it had put forward several other candidates which remain in the race. Mr Doolan said on Monday that he would contest the election after successfully seeking a nomination from ICTU, having been an active member of Unite for more than 20 years. He said: I have a long track record of working with other union members and in the spirit of cross party co-operation on key issues, including Right to Water, support for Dublin Fire Brigade workers, and resolving the pension claims of local authority staff. I am confident this will attract support beyond Sinn Fein colleagues. Forecasters are considering new weather warnings as an extremely cold snap continues in Ireland. Temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as -8C while a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning applies to the entire Republic of Ireland until the end of Thursday. Irish national weather agency Met Eireann issued the advisory, warning that there will be very cold nights with widespread frost, ice and lying snow. Very cold today with sunny intervals & scattered wintry showers, most frequent in the west & north Frost, ice and some lying snow will persist in some areas all day Highs of 0 to 5C in mostly light to moderate northwesterly winds Warningshttps://t.co/w5QtJ1V6un pic.twitter.com/VxU7MUdAlE Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 7, 2025 The Electricity Supply Board said 10,000 of its customers were without power by 7am on Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to struggle to get above freezing during the day with transport disruption and hazardous travelling conditions. A separate Yellow level warning for snow and ice for the entire country was due to expire at noon on Tuesday. However, Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock said it was quite likely the agency will announce an Orange level warning for some regions on Tuesday. Tuesday is set to have the highest temperatures of just 0 to 5 degrees. Mr Doran-Sherlock said it will be bitterly cold overnight into Wednesday, adding that a few wintry showers will affect parts of the north and west. The lowest temperatures are expected to be -8C to -3C degrees generally, although it could dip even lower in some regions, with a severe frost and icy stretches. The agency is also warning of the risk of freezing fog developing over the coming days. Temperatures are predicted to increase through Thursday night and Friday as rain, sleet and snow moves north-eastwards over the country, becoming milder for the weekend. The cold snap had seen tens of thousands of people without water and electricity, with crews continue to work to restore access to the services for the remaining affected homes and businesses on Tuesday. The severe weather also prompted the Health Service Executive to cancel non-urgent appointments in the south-west of the country. The Irish Defence Forces were deployed on Monday to assist with transporting patients and essential healthcare workers amid hazardous conditions. Some public transport services have been curtailed and cancelled while schools in the worst-affected parts of the country also took the decision to close, with the situation being assessed on a morning-by-morning basis. A Status Yellow snow-and-ice warning was put in place for Northern Ireland by the UK Met Office, expiring at 11am. Theres a new broom at Oriel Park, and all with an interest in Dundalk FC are hoping it sweeps clean. Well, in fact, it has already done most of that. Theres a new regime in the boardroom, Ciaran Kilduff is about to embark on his first season in charge, and the probability is the new manager will have a team bearing very little resemblance to the one that finished at the bottom of last seasons Premier League. All want to see last season, the worst in over two decades, replaced by one in which the team succeeds in the second tier at the first time of asking. Nothing would boost the clubs fortunes like a quick return to the Premier Division. Before it can happen, Oriel will be opening its gates to first-time visitors. Therell be ten teams vying for honours. Three of them, Kerry FC, Wexford and Limericks Treaty, have never been up this way before, but over the years Bray, Longford, Athlone, Cobh Ramblers, UCD and Finn Harps were visitors, some of them with regularity. Theres been, however, a meeting with Wexford. A visit to Ferrycarrig Park a few years ago for an FAI Cup tie ended in an embarrassing defeat. Dundalk will have a lot of travelling to do, not exactly what the new board would welcome given the parlous state of the clubs finances. Contrast that with the situation of a few seasons ago, when, after Corks relegation, there was no team from south of Dublin operating in the Premier Division. While Dundalk will be hoping for an instant return to the top, a repeat of what happened following a first-ever visit to the Second Division would do just fine. The 199899 season produced just nine wins from 43 appearances over all competitions, leading to relegation, which was always the likely outcome from a long way out. Nothing much happened in the first season in the lower division, and there were fears there could be an extended stay in the doldrums. In circumstances similar to today, with the club in serious debt, a co-op was set up. Chaired by Des Denning, the new guardians couldnt have hoped for much better luck on the field. Under the captaincy of David Crawley, one of several home-grown players in the squad, the league was claimed with some ease, the final table showing the team four points clear of Monaghan. Better was to come. Celebrating a return to the Premier League, Martin Murray-managed Dundalk kept their best for the FAI Cup. Having reached the final, with a couple of replays wins along the way, they were rank outsiders to beat Bohemians. But recent signing, Gary Haylock, was sharp around goals and having netted twice in the semi-final defeat of Shamrock Rovers, the much-travelled Englishman repeated the feat in a splendid 2-1 win. There were some lean years after that. Promotion, yes, but that was minuscule when compared with what came following Stephen Kennys appointment. It will be a while before the period overseen by Kenny and later, Vinny Perth, fades from followers memory. The battle to get anywhere near those halcyon days has a start-line at the very bottom. Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) said it is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Gavin Byrne, as Deputy Principal at Colaiste Chu Chulainn in Dundalk, Co. Louth. Gavin joins the staff of Colaiste Chu Chulainn from Colaiste na Mi, Navan, where he has worked as a teacher of Technology subjects since 2016. Gavin has also held the post of Assistant Principal at the school. Gavin joins the senior leadership team of Mr. Thomas Sharkey, Principal, Mr. Richard Melaniphy, Deputy Principal and Ms. Niamh O Neill, Deputy Principal at Colaiste Chu Chulainn, Dundalk. Gavin holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Leadership and Management in Education from Trinity College, Dublin, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education Technology from University of Limerick and a BSc in Building Surveying from Dundalk Institute of Technology. Gavin is also completing a Masters in Leadership and Management in Education at present in Trinity College Dublin. Gavin has developed a range of experience and competency in many areas throughout his career path to date and he looks forward to bringing these diverse experiences to his new role at Colaiste Chu Chulainn. As a Deputy Principal within the LMETB Schools Directorate, Gavin will have the collegial support of the Senior Management teams in LMETBs seventeen other Post Primary schools, four Community National Schools, Cara Community Special School, three PLC colleges and the Centre for European Schooling in Dunshaughlin. LMETB schools receive considerable support, guidance and direction from the Director of Schools, Ms. Fiona Kindlon and within the Organisation, Support and Development Directorate, LMETB Schools and Colleges avail of a range of supports including Human Resources, Buildings, ICT, Finance and Corporate and Education Services. This network of support at Head Office level supports the work of the LMETB Board in ensuring that all LMETB schools/colleges/centres are compliant in the areas of Corporate Governance. Gavin said he looks forward to engaging with personnel in these sections of LMETB over the coming weeks as he plans for transition to his new leadership role within LMETB. Its not easy being Green, but for the Lord Mayor of Cork, Green Party councillor Dan Boyle, the job will be a little easier with a brand new, fully electric car. Mr Boyle has been presented with the 2025 lord mayoral car, a fully electric Ford Capri Premium, by John Manning, market lead at Henry Ford & Son. For more than 80 years, the company has provided the lord mayors office with a car. The son of William Ford from Ballinascarthy in West Cork, Henry Ford founded the company in 1901, and set up a factory on Corks Marina in 1917, doing so, he later wrote, to start Ireland along the road to industry. The plant would become Corks largest employer, eventually closing in 1984. Regardless of any love of Ireland, Ford definitely never said cars could come in any colour so long as they were green. Electric vehicle Despite that, this is the fourth year that an electric vehicle is being used to support the lord mayors duties, and the new Ford Capri Premium has a range of 595 kilometres, with a charging speed of 28 minutes. Mr Boyle said that as Corks first citizen, he wanted to lead by example and help promote sustainable ways of travel. For four years now, Ford & Sons have helped the office of the lord mayor to highlight the ways in which we can be a more sustainable city, and for this, I am grateful." Mr Manning said Henry Ford & Son was honoured to continue its long-standing partnership with the lord mayors office, a tradition that has spanned more than 80 years. The presentation of the fully electric Ford Capri Premium as the 2025 lord mayoral car reflects not only our shared history in Cork but also our shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, he said. This vehicle exemplifies Fords vision for the future of mobility, combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional performance, and we are proud to support Cork citys leadership in promoting greener ways to travel. The consistently high number of patients on trolleys in Cork hospitals, along with medical facilities across the country, is a source of frustration and concern to nurses and other medical staff, a spokesman for the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) said, describing it as a Groundhog Day situation with no resolution in sight. INMO assistant director of industrial relations Colm Porter spoke to The Echo yesterday after the organisation revealed that out of 761 patients on trolleys in hospitals across the country, there were 53 patients on trolleys at Cork University Hospital, 27 at Mercy University Hospital, and nine at Bantry General Hospital. The figures are high, but the issue, the cause of frustration for our members working across Cork, is that were once again out talking about high trolley figures on the first Monday of January, said Mr Porter. Its one of those things we know is coming each year, but the unfortunate thing is that the trolley figures seem to stay pretty consistent when it comes to this time of year. Its a real concern for nurses and midwives their main priority is to provide safe care to patients but also to ensure their own health and wellbeing is protected. The fact that they are working once again in overcrowded conditions, where RSV and the flu is rife, is a big concern to them. Mr Porter said the current spell of cold weather would put additional pressure on the system, but said the most concerning issue was the lack of a clear path to resolve the situation. Were here yet again. We could talk about January 2026 and were probably going to be in a similar position as we were in January 2024 its kind of Groundhog Day in a way. INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha has called for an emergency national plan to deal with overcrowding in Irish hospitals. She said: 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. In a statement issued in response to a query from The Echo, an HSE spokesperson said that the number of admissions over Christmas was up 8.2% on the 2023 figure. However, they pointed out that the number of those on trolleys was down 11% in the same period in 2024 compared to 2023. The number of patients who waited longer than 24 hours [24-hour breaches] up to December 29 was 58,168, which was a reduction of 5.5% on the previous year, said the spokesperson. We acknowledge that this number is still too high. The spokesperson added that the HSE through the implementation of the health regions, has plans in place across its hospital and community services to support high attendances at its emergency departments. Particularly disgusting criminal damage to a custody cell at a Garda station resulted in a 50-year-old man being jailed for five months. Judge Mary Dorgan imposed the sentence on Gordon Sherin at Cork District Court. I am of the view that this is a particularly disgusting type of incident, that, unfortunately, someone else had to clean up, Judge Dorgan said. And there is no prospect of him paying compensation. Sergeant John Kelleher said: Gordon Sherin was arrested on November 28, 2024, at 6.30pm, by Garda Shane Hayes, for being intoxicated to such an extent that he was a danger to himself or others. He was conveyed to Bridewell Garda Station. He was being held until the following morning at Cork District Court, because of a bench warrant. At approximately 11.30pm, Mr Sherin urinated at the door of the cell and, later, attempted to push his own excrement out under the door by use of a sock and a mattress. Mr Sherin, of St Vincents Hostel, Anglesea Tce, Cork, pleaded guilty to causing the criminal damage. As the circumstances were being outlined, he said, by video link from prison: I wasnt very well at the time. Apologies. He had three previous convictions for causing criminal damage among his 76 previous convictions. Defence solicitor, Eddie Burke, said the 50-year-old man had a lot of difficulties in his life, but was doing well in prison, where he was serving a sentence for a number of thefts. A man was arrested on counts of having thousands of euro worth of cannabis and thousands in cash in Cork city at the weekend, and gardai objected to bail being granted to him yesterday. Garda Elaine Gallery arrested Igor Auila Silva, aged 25, with an address at North Quay Place, Popes Quay, Cork. He was charged with two counts of money laundering, specifically that on January 3 at an apartment at St Patricks Hill, Cork, he had 6,201 in cash, the proceeds of criminal conduct, and that on January 4 at a room at North Quay Place, Popes Quay, Cork, he had 3,391 cash, the proceeds of criminal conduct. He was further charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act on counts, including having cannabis resin for sale or supply on January 3, at an apartment at St Patricks Hill. Gda Gallery said: The nature of the evidence is strong. Following a search of the accused on January 3, 11,220 in suspected cannabis herb and 280 of cannabis resin were located, along with weighing scales, bagging equipment, and 6,201 in cash. A quantity of additional suspected controlled drugs were also located, but will be subject to forensic examination. Another address associated with Mr Silva was searched on January 4, and 3,931 cash and suspected drugs were found. Given the serious nature of the incident, I do not believe Mr Silva will make an appearance in court if granted bail. He made several attempts to mislead gardai in relation to his address, date of birth, and full name. Defence solicitor Eddie Burke said the accused was in Ireland on a Brazilian passport from December 3, 2021, he was working here in a number of jobs, and he has no previous convictions. Judge Mary Dorgan remanded him in custody until January 13 and directed the presence of a Portuguese interpreter on that occasion at Cork District Court. The 32-year-old man facing charges arising out of the petrol bomb attack at Murphys Rock pub in Ballyvolane late on a Sunday night last September has confessed to all counts against him. Stephen McCarthy of Bay 10, Spring Lane halting site, Cork, appeared in person at Cork District Court where his solicitor Frank Buttimer indicated that he wanted to enter a signed plea of guilty to all the indictable charges against him. On that being done, Judge Mary Dorgan sent the accused man forward for sentencing at the next sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court commencing on February 4. Detective Garda Kevin Motherway brought the charges against Mr McCarthy shortly after the incident. The first count stated that on Sunday, September 1, at Murphys Rock, Ballincollie Road, Dublin Hill, Cork, he committed arson in that he damaged by fire property, namely doors, windows, blinds and exterior and interior paint, intending damage or being reckless as to whether it would be damaged. Charged Stephen McCarthy was also charged with two counts of having a knife at the same time and place. Further, he was charged with possession of cocaine when searched at Mayfield garda station and having the drug for sale or supply. Det Garda Motherway objected to bail being granted to Mr McCarthy in October last year. Mr Buttimer said there was no background issue between Mr McCarthy and the premises and that it was a random occurrence, probably arising out of Mr McCarthys intoxication. Det Garda Motherway said: Our concern is that he came back twice on the same night. In terms of the seriousness of the case, Detective Garda Motherway said Stephen McCarthy was socialising at the premises when he was asked to leave at 9.50pm. He left the premises after a verbal argument with a security guard and went to his car and retrieved a slash-hook and attempted to strike a security staff member with it. He disarmed Mr McCarthy and took the slash-hook but Mr McCarthy then retrieved an axe from his car and walked towards the security staff but did not attempt to strike them. Gardai attended but Stephen McCarthy had made good his escape. At approximately 10.50pm Stephen McCarthy again returned to Murphys Rock, allegedly in possession of two plastic bottles containing petrol which he sprayed over the front of the premises before lighting it resulting in damage to the outside and the interior of the premises. The premises had 40 to 50 patrons and staff inside at the time. Confronted by security staff, Mr McCarthy threw petrol at them at the scene and was held until the arrival of gardai. He also attempted to set bottles alight but failed and continued to throw petrol over the flames. He allegedly had nine deals of cocaine valued 630 on his person when searched later, Det. Garda Motherway testified. Charges from the same night arising out of alleged driving offences will be dealt with at Cork District Court after sentencing concludes in Cork Circuit Criminal Court. Gardai have arrested a man for questioning in relation to the murder of 31-year-old Paula Canty, whose body was found in her apartment on Bridewell Lane in Mallow on Friday. The man, aged in his 40s was arrested on Tuesday afternoon and detained at a garda station in North Cork under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, which allows for gardai to detain a suspect for up to 24 hours. A garda spokesperson said investigations into Ms Cantys death were ongoing. The death of the 31-old-mother of two, who hailed from Kinsale originally, is being investigated as a murder by gardai in the north Cork town and a senior investigating officer is heading up inquiries based at an incident room at Mallow garda station. Gardai are appealing for witnesses to contact them and are seeking any available camera footage, including dashcam recordings, from those who were in the vicinity of Bridewell Lane, Mallow between 9pm on Thursday, January 2 and 10am on Friday, January 3. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Mallow Garda Station on 022 31450, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station. Condolences Meanwhile, a Mallow-based Cork county councillor has expressed condolences on behalf of townspeople to Paula Cantys family. Fianna Fail councillor Pat Hayes, who operates a business in the town close to the apartment where Ms Cantys body was discovered said locals were shocked and saddened when news of Ms Cantys death became known. First of all wed like to extend sincere condolences to Paulas immediate family and friends, said Mr Hayes. The community is shocked at what has happened, this is so unusual in our town and people are really upset over it. Ms Cantys mother, Sinead, has set up a Go-Fund Me page to benefit the Street Angels charity in Cork in memory of her daughter. In her message on the page, Sinead Canty said the group provided a brilliant service to all those in need. Donations totalling 1,670 have been made to the fund by more than 60 people. Details of the funeral arrangements for Ms Canty have yet to be announced. A rotating taoiseach arrangement will be part of the next Government, Fine Gael leader Simon Harris has insisted. Mr Harris also said it is possible there will be a Government by January 22, adding that formation talks have been going really well. The outcome of the 2020 election saw Fianna Fail and Fine Gael enter a coalition on the basis that the holder of the position of taoiseach would be exchanged midway through the term. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin took the role for the first half of the mandate, with Leo Varadkar taking over in December 2022. Mr Harris succeeded Mr Varadkar when he resigned from the role last year. In the November 2024 election, Fianna Fail secured 10 more seats than Fine Gael. 'Very clear' Asked if Fine Gael would enter Government without a return to the rotating taoiseach arrangement, Mr Harris said: There will be a rotating taoiseach in the next Government, and I think thats been very clear probably since the day or two after the election. Mr Harris said the arrangement had worked well in the previous Government. I believe many hundreds of thousands of people in this country have voted for Fine Gael and Fianna Fail to provide [a] stable Government for the next five years, and for myself and Micheal Martin to lead that Government." Since the November 29 election, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail have been holding intensive talks with each other, as well as other parties and Independents, on forming a Government. The Dail is due to return on January 22. Mr Harris said forming a Government before then would be a little bit tight, but he added: People can work hard, work later, work longer, were doing that, and work through the weekend. The Fine Gael leader said forming a Government within eight weeks of the election is not an extraordinary length of time when the Christmas break is taken into consideration. Largely agreed Certain key areas of the programme of Government are understood to have been largely agreed between the two parties although talks on disability, justice, and climate continue. Mr Harris said he is in regular contact with Mr Martin, sometimes engaging several times a day. He said there are three pillars of work for the talks policy, government structure, and ratification among party members. Mr Harris said intensive work between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail negotiators is continuing, identifying areas of agreement and disagreement on policy. He added that the talks on government structure are not about personnel areas, but rather how it is set up to tackle priority areas. Lets take disability as an example, where both parties to the talks and I think the people of Ireland have said they want, expect, and need better in this area ask how do you structure government departments to deliver that? He also identified other areas for restructuring, including co-ordination on migration and energy. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are just shy of forming a majority by themselves and are expected to rely on Independents to make up the numbers. The regional Independents have put forward eight TDs who are willing to negotiate as a group. A new portrait exhibition has arrived at Cork Airport, featuring images by Crosshaven photographer Joleen Cronin. The exhibition, Behind the Bite: A Portrait Series of Our Local Food Heroes, commissioned by the Waterford Festival of Food, will be on display at the airport until January 30. Passengers and visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the exhibition, which debuted at Currans Store on Dungarvans Quayside last year. The series features a curated selection of 12 black and white portraits, revealing the faces behind the flavours of Waterford including bakers, brewers, cheesemakers and artisan producers. Unique story Each portrait tells a unique story, celebrating the individuals who craft and elevate the regions exceptional food culture. This exhibition is a celebration of the incredible food community here in Waterford, and Im delighted to bring it to Cork Airport which is a gateway point for those visiting the south east from overseas, the CEO of Waterford Festival of Food, Eunice Power, said. Each portrait in Behind the Bite tells a story of passion, hard work, and dedication, showcasing the people behind beloved local flavours and well-loved brands. Food is so much more than sustenance its our way of life. We grow it, craft it, and celebrate it, and it brings us together in the best ways. Sharing this at Cork Airport is an amazing way to inspire those who crave authentic experiences. We invite everyone to take a moment with these portraits, learn a little about the faces behind the food, and mark their diaries for the 2025 Waterford Festival of Food. Its a fantastic way to experience all our region has to offer community, craftsmanship, and, of course, unforgettable flavours. This years Waterford Festival of Food will take place from April 25 to 27. This is ridiculous, said my friend as we greeted each other at the start of the year. No Happy New Year or How was your Christmas? Standing bare-footed and swim-suited next to our cars in near sub-zero temperatures, the word ridiculous was indeed a suitable greeting. Ludicrous and madness might also have worked. A bunch of us were assembling at Red Strand to mark the New Year with a sauna session, and on the surface the entire process seems preposterous. Drive an hour from the city, with the car thermometer alarm pinging every time the temperature goes below 4, strip off the layers of thermals and double socks, and then willingly sit in a wooden wagon in 100 degree heat that might make you feel faint. The whole thing is counter-intuitive to my definition of fun. But three minutes of sitting on a wooden bench, cocooned in the bone-warming heat of the sauna with the tang of peppermint in the air and the glorious glistening view of Galley Head through the picture-perfect window, and I couldnt think of a better way to spend my time. The rare occasions I step into a sauna, Im reminded of one of my first exposures to the bathing ritual. As a teenager, I was a member of a youth theatre company in Cork called Boomerang and we were extremely fortunate to have a theatre director who excelled at securing EU funding to participate in youth theatre festivals around Europe. The Czech Republic, Greece and Finland were the countries I got to travel to as a spotty teenager over the years. It was at the spiritual home of the sauna, or as they say in Finland sow-na, that I experienced a ceremony far more intense than the warm wooden cupboards of Irish leisure centres I was used to. At a rustic scouts camp in the middle of a forest hours from Helsinki, us pale Irish were welcomed by the hosts in the most theatrical-slash- disconcerting way. Along with teenagers from Russia and Italy, we found ourselves expectantly gathered in the camps hall. Forty teenagers smiling awkwardly at each other and wondering what lay ahead. Usually, at these youth events there would be a few ice-breakers and getting-to-know-you exercises, wed do some drama workshops together, bond and laugh over a bit of cross-cultural improvisation and misunderstanding, do a group performance at the end of the week, and fly home replete with greater love for our fellow Europeans. Not in Finland. The Finnish hosts decided to welcome us in a decidedly unconventional and frankly not welcoming way. Without explaining what was going to happen, they led us one by one blindfolded and bare-footed through the forest, feeding us manky salty liquorice-flavoured sweets and giving us the odd jump fright till our nerves were frayed. Our unknown destination was a sauna, where we were allowed to remove our blindfolds but were then whipped with birch branches before being plunged into a sauna hotter than the sun and then later lobbed off a pier into a frigid lake. It was all very strange. Our hosts certainly dunked us in Finnish culture and pushed us out of our comfort zones. We were all instant friends afterwards, only because we were glad we hadnt died from a mix of fear, heat, and teenage mortification. Because of this early defining Finnish sauna experience, I long believed that the appeal of the sauna and the cold plunge is simply that your body is so relieved you havent died from extreme heat or extreme cold, that afterwards you are flooded with feelings of relaxation and wellbeing. I thought the warm, positive feelings were the aftermath of dodging a near-death experience, but Ive since learned, the physical effects of sauna bathing are systemic, long-lasting, and longevity boosting. There is a strong body of scientific research linking sauna bathing with substantial health benefits, particularly cardiovascular health. The Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Study (KIHD) is a longitudinal study started in the 1980s to investigate risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and related outcomes in more than 2,000 men from Finland. Overall, it has found that frequent sauna use is associated with a reduced risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and dementia, and those who used saunas multiple times per week had a lower risk of fatal cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality compared to those who used saunas less frequently. The more saunas the better. Back in the Balmy Barrel on Red Strand, I was wishing for a sauna whisk, those bundles of birch branches used to gently whip the skin while in the sauna (and known as vihta in Finnish), not to clobber my friends with but to bury my face in. The oils and aromas from the birch oils are beneficial for the skin, but also stop your face from going on fire. After a couple of rounds of heat and cold sea plunges (admittedly, I barely dipped in the sea up to my knees), the whole process was feeling like a perfectly sensible pursuit for people living on the edge of the Atlantic looking for a way to warm the bones and feel alive. I only learned recently that Ireland did have its own type of sauna culture in the past in the form of sweathouses - stone structures near water bodies that were heated by fires and used to treat aches, colds, and promote general well-being. Sweathouses were an Irish adaptation of the global tradition stretching from Native American sweat lodges to Turkish hammams. The growing popularity of mobile and beach saunas on Irish beaches is not ridiculous at all, and as our gang dispersed, glowing, vowing to go again soon, it all made perfect sense. We are celebrating a significant anniversary in 2025. Last year, we celebrated 175 years since welcoming the first students to our College of Medicine & Health and School of Physics in 1849. This year, we will mark an even larger milestone 180 years since the passing of the Colleges (Ireland) Act and the founding of our university. This Act provided for the establishment of a College in or near the City of Cork which would consist of such number of professors in Arts Law and Physic not exceeding Twelve. This new teaching institution was expected to play an important role in Irelands economic and cultural development. In the following 180 years, University College Cork has grown beyond those 12 founding members of teaching staff through famine, war, recession, prosperity, and a pandemic to become the internationally-focused institution that it is today. What remains unchanged is our place in Cork. While UCC is global in outlook, our greatest impact continues to be felt locally. We value our community ties and cherish relationships with neighbours around our campus. Our dedicated Neighbourhood Support Officer does fantastic work to foster these connections, enabling greater engagement with the university and its resources. Through outreach efforts, we hope our neighbours feel our appreciation and commitment. Our recently published Economic and Societal Impact Report affirms UCCs place here in Cork. As Corks third-largest employer, with 3,616 staff, UCC generates an annual economic impact exceeding 1 billion, supporting one in 13 jobs locally. For every 1 of state investment, UCC delivers 6 in return. We connect Cork to the world, with six of the top ten global pharmaceutical companies having operations here, benefiting from UCCs highly skilled graduate population. In 2022, UCC attracted 113 million in research funding, much of which is awarded through European funding mechanisms, industry partners and philanthropy. UCCs transformative research tackles global challenges such as food security, climate resilience and peace. UCC is a global leader in sustainability, now ranked as the fourth most sustainable university in the world. Beyond our measurable economic and workforce development impact, UCCs broader social and cultural impact is substantial. The university is the fourth most popular tourism destination in the city, attracting visitors to conferences and graduations on campus, to the Glucksman Gallery and for campus tours. The endeavours of our students, graduates, and staff are interwoven in Corks artistic, cultural and sporting fabric. We strive to ensure that this is a reciprocal relationship. As much as our people represent Cork, we work to ensure all people of Cork are represented in UCC. The success of our Access Programme means that over 21% of undergraduates are mature students, students with disabilities, or those from non-traditional backgrounds. From its earliest days, UCC has sought to remove barriers and extend opportunities through education. Women were first admitted as students in 1886, and by 2024 represent almost 60% of the student body. We continue to work to broaden access to third level education, and recently launched our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan to support our ambition to be a place of belonging and inclusion. More must be done to empower every potential student to access higher education. The cost of living and housing crises must be tackled to open further education to all. Our own Campus Accommodation provides 1,536 beds, consistently offered at below-market rates, but with over 25,000 students attending UCC, more affordable accommodation is urgently needed. We sometimes hear that in Cork it is not the availability of accommodation that is the issue, it is the affordability, but the reality is that an unaffordable apartment isnt available to a student whose budget cant meet the rents sought. We are committed to working with the Government and other bodies to increase affordable accommodation and remove these barriers. The recent budget announcement of increased multi-annual funding is welcome and allows us to plan for the future. However, given the international threats of shocks to our economy, an adequately funded and properly represented third level sector will be crucial to Irelands ability to weather any economic storms on the horizon. Reflecting on the past year, I acknowledge it has been a challenging period both for our university and the global community. Despite the challenges we faced, UCC has continued to innovate and embrace new opportunities. In a historic milestone, UCC became the first university in Ireland to launch an apprenticeship programme with the offering of the first Apprenticeship in Social Work in September. This year also, the important role of higher education was recognised by both the electorate and policymakers, following that commitment to multi-annual funding for the sector. This achievement was in no small part thanks to the efforts of our Governing Authority, whose work has been instrumental in advocating for critical funding for higher education. While we faced many challenges in 2024, I am confident we and our students will reap the benefits of our hard work in the years to come, and we face the future with optimism. As President of UCC, I wish to thank all our students, staff, alumni, Governing Authority, partners and collaborators for the contributions you all make to our university, community and city. Sean McCarthaigh The number of dangerously defective cars being driven on Irish roads has reached a record level with over 128,000 vehicles being classified as fail dangerous when submitted for a NCT last year. Figures published by the National Car Testing Service show a total of 128,548 cars were found to be unroadworthy to a dangerous level while being checked at a NCT test centre during 2024. The number of dangerously defective cars detected last year represents 7.42 per cent of all vehicles checked by the NCTS in 2024. It is the highest level of unroadworthy cars detected in recent years with the proportion of fail dangerous vehicles having grown annually from a low of 4.9 per cent in 2020. The latest figures also reveal that 3,965 unroadworthy vehicles were again classified as fail dangerous when they were submitted for a re-test in 2024. 'Dangerous fail' A vehicle categorised as dangerous fail is found to have a dangerous defect that constitutes a direct or immediate risk to road safety such that it should not be used on the public road under any circumstances. A sticker stating Failed Dangerous will be affixed to the vehicle by a NCTS vehicle inspector who will also inform the motorist why and how their car is dangerous and unroadworthy According to Applus+ the Spanish company that operates the NCT on behalf of the Road Safety Authority at 50 test centres in the Republic NCTS vehicle inspectors will also advise the owners of dangerously defective cars to have them towed away from the centre. The company said customers are also read a statement that if they drive the vehicle off the premises, the NCTS will inform An Garda Siochana that a dangerous defective vehicle was just driven from the centre. Applus+s communications manager, Sinead McKeon, said the reaction of motorists with a fail dangerous vehicle is mixed with some ignoring the warnings and driving off in their car from the test centre. Ms McKeon said the high level of fail dangerous vehicles was probably linked to people not servicing their car on a regular basis. People dont check on their car in advance of going in for a test and they are using the NCT as a diagnostic tool instead of getting their vehicle services first, she added. Some of the main reasons for a vehicle receiving a fail dangerous result include badly corroded bodywork; bald, bulging or damaged tyres; brake fluid leaks; car doors that do not close properly and brake lights not working. At a county level, the highest share of fail dangerous vehicles last year was recorded in Cavan where 11.9 per cent of cars tested were dangerously defective a total of 1,831 vehicles followed by Leitrim (10.3 per cent), Clare (9.7 per cent) and Monaghan (9.4 per cent) The lowest proportion of vehicles to be classified as fail dangerous was found in Offaly (6.1 per cent); Kildare (6.3 per cent); Louth and Waterford (both 6.7 per cent); Dublin and Wicklow (both 6.8 per cent) and Kilkenny (7.0 per cent). Low pass rate The latest NCTS figures also show that the pass rate for the full test has fallen to its lowest level in five years at 50.6 per cent down from 52.9 per cent in 2023 and the recent high rate of 54.3 per cent in 2022. A record number of 1,732,095 vehicles were tested last year an annual increase of over 144,000 full tests. A majority of vehicles submitted for a NCT in 11 of 26 counties passed the test. However, the lowest pass rate was recorded in Cavan where fewer than 2 in every 5 vehicles passed the NCT with just 39.4 per cent. Other counties with low pass rates included Leitrim (42.1 per cent); Monaghan (43.5 per cent); Roscommon (44.3 per cent); Longford (44.6 per cent) and Clare (44.9 per cent). The highest pass rate was recorded in Offaly at 57.3 per cent followed by Limerick (55.5 per cent), Waterford (55.1 per cent) and Kilkenny (54.9 per cent). The combined pass rate across the five test centres in Dublin was 52.4 per cent and 50.8 per cent for the six NCT centres located in Cork. The pass rate on a national basis for lane re-tests last year was 87.2 per cent with 0.6 per cent of the total still being classified as fail dangerous. The pass rate for visual (non-lane) retests was 99.6 per cent. The NCT, which was introduced in 2000, is designed to reduce the number of road deaths by identifying defects in vehicles as well as enhance environmental protection by reducing harmful vehicle emissions. Steering and suspension defects The most common fault detected during checks on over 1.7 million vehicles last year related to steering and suspension which affected 15.0 per cent of all vehicles followed by lighting and electrical (14.2 per cent) and the side slip test (12.3 per cent) which checks on wheel alignment. Around 1 in 10 of all vehicles submitted for a NCT in 2024 recorded a problem with their wheels and tyres with a similar proportion also having some type of fault with their brakes. Private vehicles must undergo a NCT test when they are four years old and every two years thereafter until their 10th anniversary, after which they need to be tested annually. The RSA stresses that the NCT does not replace or remove responsibility from the owners of vehicles to ensure their vehicle is in a roadworthy condition at all times. It also points out that the test should not be used as a substitute for the regular maintenance that needs to be carried out on a vehicle. Kenneth Fox Gardai investigating the death of a man in Dublin in 2022 have arrested a man. Adnan Asic was assaulted as he was walking from the Blanchardstown Centre on October 22nd three years ago. The 60-year-old, who was originally from Bosnia, died from his injuries. Gardai have now launched a murder investigation, and are renewing their appeal for information in connection with the attack. The man who was arrested on Tuesday is being held at a north Dublin Garda Station. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. A person fishes with offshore oil and gas platform Esther in the distance in Seal Beach, California on Jan. 5, 2025. Mario Tama / Getty Images President Joe Biden is planning to ban the development of offshore oil and gas across 625 million acres of United States coastal waters in the Atlantic, Pacific and eastern Gulf of Mexico. The move is an effort to provide permanent protection of U.S. coastal waters and the communities that rely on them from oil and gas drilling and the risk of damaging oil spills, reported Bloomberg. Meanwhile, Biden is leaving open the option of new oil and gas leases in western and central parts of the Gulf that provide roughly 14 percent of the countrys output, according to those familiar with the matter. 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, as The Guardian reported. 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 [does] not justify the environmental, public health, and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling. The ban includes the coasts of Washington, Oregon, California and part of Alaskas Bering Sea. Trump said when he resumes the presidency on January 20 he would unban oil and gas drilling in the area immediately, though it is not clear if he will have the ability to easily implement this. The ban has no expiration date and may be difficult for Trump to overturn, both politically and legally. What has been made evident by scientists is that the production of fossil fuels must be slashed in order to avoid the most extreme impacts of climate change. The Biden administrations action is being taken under the federal Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act of 1953, which gives the government authority over offshore resources. Eight presidents including Trump have previously withdrawn U.S. territory from fossil fuel drilling under the act. Trump used it to ban the extraction of oil and gas off the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. The law does not include an express provision allowing presidents to reverse a ban on drilling without going through Congress, however. A rare and endangered blue whale spouts near offshore oil rigs near Long Beach, California in 2008. David McNew / Getty Images Environmental groups approved of the bipartisan decision, which would protect marine wildlife and coastal communities from future oil spills. Calling it an epic ocean victory! Joseph Gordon, conservation nonprofit Oceanas campaign director for climate and energy, joined other environmental groups in praising the action, reported The Guardian. No one wants an oil spill off their coast, and our hope is that this can be a bipartisan historic moment where areas are set aside for future generations, Gordon said during a phone interview, as The Washington Post reported. Industry groups were not as pleased, with National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito expressing a desire to keep some areas open to drilling. 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, Milito stated in an email, as reported by The Washington Post. Blanket bans only serve to shift energy production and economic opportunities abroad, benefiting countries like Russia at our expense. The move is the most recent of the Biden administrations 11th-hour climate policy decisions before Trump returns to the White House. Americans on both sides of the aisle support protecting our oceans from big oil giveaways, said Evergreen Action Executive Director Lena Moffitt, as The Guardian reported. President Bidens bold action today underscores that we cannot afford the continued expansion of oil and gas production if we are to meet our climate targets and avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis. (Photo: Orthodox Times.)Feast of Epiphany is celebrated in Kyiv, Ukraine on Jan. 6, 2025. The Feast of the Holy Epiphany was celebrated with great "pomp and splendor" at the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul on Jan. 6 as Orthodox believers in several counties joined in colorful celebrations held by Christians worldwide. After the divine liturgy, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, along with the church hierarchs, officials, and faithful, proceeded in a solemn procession to the waterfront of the Phanar in the Turkish capital where the patrriarch is based. There, the Ecumenical Patriarch presided over the ceremony of the diving of the Holy Cross into the Golden Horn, the Orthodox Times reported. The Feast of the Epiphany, celebrated in Western traditions on Jan, 6, 12 days after Christmas is one of the most important Christian celebrations. It marks the visit of the three Magi, or wise men, to baby Jesus, bringing gifts to proclaim him. Each year, Christians around the world observe this special day in commemoration of this miraculous event. More than 70 people from Istanbul, which used to be known as Constantinople, Imbros, Greece, and other countries dived into the waters of the Golden Horn according to the Orthodox Times, using the news service, Pomisna. Bartholomew presented a golden cross as a blessing, and blessed the swimmers, offering them small commemorative gifts. The feast of the Epiphany was also celebrated on Jan 6 in the Ukrainian capital at a service in the St. Michael's domed Cathedral led by Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and all of Ukraine. After the reading of the Gospel, Metropolitan Epifaniy delivered a sermon and offered a special prayer to the Lord during this time of peril for Ukraine when Russia is waging war on its territory. (Photo; Orthodox Times) Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presides over an Epiphany service in Istanbul of the Feast of Epiphany on Jan. 6, 2025. During the service, prayers were also offered for the soldiers defending Ukraine, for the authorities and the nation, and for the repose of the souls of all fallen defenders of the homeland and peaceful citizens who perished during the war. At the end of the solemn service, Metropolitan Epifaniy performed the Rite of the Great Blessing of Water in the cathedral, sprinkling the congregation with the holy water. Epiphany is observed on Jan. 6 by Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, and Christians of other Western traditions. Eastern traditions that follow the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar celebrate Epiphany on Jan. 19, since their Christmas Eve falls on Jan. 6. (Photo: Russian Orthodox Church)Russian Patriarch Kirill and Russian President Vladimir Putin light a candle in 2015. President Vladimir Putin has offered another sign he is prepared to coalesce Christian belief with national stability as he congratulated Orthodox Christians and all Russian citizens celebrating Christmas. "The Russian Orthodox Church, other Christian denominations are playing a huge, truly unique role in reviving the high ethical, moral values, guarding our rich historical and cultural heritage," said Putin in a Christmas message Jan. 7, Interfax news agency reports. Russian Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas around the time that Christians further West celebrate the feast of the Epiphany, on Jan. 6 when wise men brought gifts for the baby Jesus after his birth. The Russian Orthodox Church is the largest of the Eastern Orthodox churches in the world with the overwhelming majority of Christians in Russian belonging to the church. The Russian Orthodox Church celebrates religious holidays according to the Julian calendar while most non-Orthodox Christians as well as Orthodox believers from some churches use the Gregorian calendar which the Russia has done for secular purposes since 1918. In his praise of Christians Putin said, "They increasingly cooperate with State and public organizations in the cause of education, enlightenment and charity, in strengthening the institution of family and bringing up the young generation." According to the Kremlin press office the Russian president said, "The Christmas days are shining a special joy onto our lives, awakening the kindest feelings, turning us towards spiritual sources and traditions. "This is the time for good thoughts and deeds, sincere care for our loved ones and those who need help and support." 'PRESEVERING CIVIL PEACE' Orthodox believers and Christians "are doing a great deal for harmonization of the inter-ethnic and inter-religious dialogue, preserving civil peace and accord in our country," said Putin. "Such a big and constructive effort deserves deep gratitude and respect." He wished "best wishes of health, success and well-being to Orthodox Christians and all Russian citizens celebrating Christmas." Putin favors the Russian Orthodox Church due to its patriotic and socially conservative message and has expanded massively in the country recent years, Christian Today reports. Mark Woods writing in the newspaper said that accession in 2009 of Moscow Patriarch Kirill, a Putin loyalist, about 5,000 more churches have been built or recovered from secular use, and the church has recruited 10,000 more clergy, and 122 monasteries have been founded. In Moscow alone 160 new parishes have been founded. "While Putin makes a point of including 'other Christian denominations' in his Christmas message, many Russian Christians have deep concerns about the effects of the 'Yarovaya Law' passed last year, a sweeping expansion of anti-terror and public safety measures. Among its effects are a draconian clampdown on evangelism and missionary activity," writes Woods. The New York Times reported Sept. 13, 2016 that Russia has used tanks and artillery to project its power into neighboring Ukraine and Georgia, but "Putin has also mobilized faith to expand the country's reach and influence." "A fervent foe of homosexuality and any attempt to put individual rights above those of family, community or nation, the Russian Orthodox Church helps project Russia as the natural ally of all those who pine for a more secure, illiberal world free from the tradition-crushing rush of globalization, multiculturalism and women's and gay rights," wrote Andrew Higgins in the Times. Over the past two decades, since the collapse of the Soviet Union, there has been an upsurge in affiliation with Orthodox Christianity in Russia, the Pew Research Center said Feb. 14, 2014. Pew said that between 1991 and 2008, the share of Russian adults identifying as Orthodox Christian rose from 31 percent to 72 percent citing data from from the International Socail Survey Programme (ISSP). 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 . Lenovo came to CES 2025 to prove that theres still room in its ThinkPad family for fresh designs. It may seem sacrilegious to ditch the carbon fiber frames and Trackpoint nubs found in classic ThinkPads, but thats exactly what the new ThinkPad X9 line does. Lenovo may not admit it outright, but the goal with these new models is to entice younger buyers who might not have a ton of nostalgia for the companys 30-year-old laptop line. That said, the X9 line (which will be available in both 14- and 15-inch variants) still delivers the same military-grade durability (MIL-SPEC 810H) youd expect from a typical ThinkPad while boasting an even sleeker and more minimalist appearance. The lid of the X9 line is made from a smooth sheet of aluminum with the only defining characteristic (aside from the ThinkPad logo) being the long communication bar that houses the laptop's microphones and cameras. On the inside, Lenovos streamlined aesthetic reveals the complete absence of a Trackpoint nub, a redesigned keyboard with new keycaps and an even larger haptic touchpad than what youd get from the X9s siblings. Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget So even though Im an elder millennial who has some fondness for old-school ThinkPads, I must admit that I find Lenovos break from tradition rather appealing. I never understood the Trackpoint nub, especially on modern notebooks with super responsive touchpads. Getting rid of it not only reduces distractions, but makes the keyboard easier to use. And even with its tweaked keycaps, theres still plenty of travel to deliver a very comfortable typing experience. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement On its bottom, Lenovo is using what it calls an Engine Hub to deliver great connectivity for its size including a Thunderbolt 4 port on each side, a full HDMI 2.1 jack, 3.5mm audio and USB-A, while still providing plenty of room for thermal management. The X9 lines D-cover (the bottom panel) can also be removed by loosening just four captured screws, which gives you easy access to the laptop's user-replaceable SSD and battery. Unfortunately, because the system is powered by up to Intel Core Ultra 7 processors, RAM is soldered on so you cant upgrade its memory on your own. Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 and 15 Aura Edition hands-on photos Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 and 15 Aura Edition hands-on photos Both the 14- and 15-inch versions of the X9 feature bright OLED displays with 2.8K resolutions and 400 nits of brightness (or 500 nits on the X9 15) and all models come with 80Whr batteries, Wi-Fi 7, 8-megapixel high-def webcams and dual noise-canceling microphones. I also appreciate a lot of the smaller design touches like the physical shutter for the webcam and what might be one of the smallest 65-watt power adapters Ive seen from any major laptop manufacturer to date. Finally, Lenovos Aura Edition branding is there to remind you that the X9 line includes a handful of AI-powered tools including Smart Share, dynamic power modes, enhanced security and more. And in case anything ever goes wrong, youll also have access to 24/7 live support thats meant to deliver more of a white-glove experience compared to less premium machines. The internals of the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 and 15 can be accessed just by removing four screws. Unfortunately, while the SSD is upgradable, its RAM is soldered on. (Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget) All told, the new X9 line really does seem like a more modern approach to laptop design. Now, that doesnt mean Lenovo needs to kill the classic ThinkPad (I still love those carbon fiber frames), but especially for younger customers, I feel like theres plenty of room for both of these lines to live together happily. Both models are expected to go on sale in February, with the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition starting at $1,399 or $1,549 for the 15-inch version. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Lenovo has made history with its new Yoga Slim 9i laptop, which has an under-display camera similar to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold phone. In other words, the 32-megapixel camera is situated beneath the screen where you cant see it, but it can capture video and images just fine. The Yoga Book 9i is also getting updated with a larger screen, an NPU and higher peak brightness. Having an under-display camera lets device manufacturers use thinner bezels. In the Yoga Slim 9is case, Lenovo was able to achieve what it calls a worlds first: a 98 percent screen-to-body-ratio on a laptop, which the company claims is a world-first. Plus, the 4K120 OLED touch display measures 14 inches. Its PureSight certification includes 100 percent sRGB and Adobe RGB support. Additionally, the Yoga Slim 9i has a peak brightness of 750 nits, and supports VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600. The Yoga Slim 9i is capable of handling AI tasks, thanks to an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and with a 48 trillion operations per second (TOPS) NPU. The 75WHr battery provides up to 17 hours of battery life. Graphics are handled by an uniform memory access Intel Arc GPU. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement The Yoga Slim 9i can come with 1TB of storage and 32GB of RAM, making it a portable workhorse of a laptop. As for ports, there are two Thunderbolt 4 ports besides the charging-only USB-C port. The latest Yoga Book 9i has also received several upgrades . The screen size has been increased from 13.3 inches to a full 14 inches, and the 400 nits brightness has been upped to 750 nits. The new model has a 94 percent screen-to-body-ratio, up a little over two percent from the prior generation. Plus, it now has AI capabilities thanks to new hardware. Finally, we can take a brief look at the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition, a convertible laptop. The 14-inch 2.8K120 screen supports multi-touch and has a peak brightness of 1100 nits. It also has Smart Modes that let users customize the settings quickly. At 2.91 pounds, its easy to carry around for work. Bangladesh issues arrest warrant for ex-PM Hasina in enforced disappearances case Xinhua) 09:42, January 07, 2025 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) 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 . A little more than two years ago, Lenovo teased a concept laptop with a rollable screen that could expand and contract with the touch of a button. And now at CES 2025, the company has turned that idea into a reality with the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable. Remarkably, Lenovos new device looks incredibly similar to what the company showed off in the past. The laptop features a flexible 14-inch OLED display that can unfurl itself to become a 16.7-inch panel at the push of a button. This effectively adds an extra 50 percent of screen space to the system without the need for any additional accessories or peripherals. Alternatively, you can use gestures to expand and contract the display for a truly touch-free experience. Though in my experience, that took so much longer you might as well use the dedicated key. Thankfully, brightness is more than sufficient at 400 nits while the OLED panel delivers rich, vibrant hues. Just this functionality would be a feat on its own. However, to help maximize the potential of its rollable display, Lenovo added a custom set of multitasking features that allow you to add widgets to the expanded screen space or use it as a visual clipboard and a place to view frequently used docs. And when youre doing something like sharing your view during a video call, you can use the extra display as a virtual monitor, so you have a clean desktop for presentations. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement But to me, one of the most impressive things about the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable is that its not that much bigger or heavier than a traditional clamshell of a similar size. It weighs around 3.6 pounds and measures three quarters of an inch thick. Performance looks solid too, thanks to the inclusion of Intel's Core Ultra 7 CPU, up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage. And while its port selection is just OK, you still get two Thunderbolt 4 jacks and 3.5mm audio along with other handy features like Wi-Fi 7 and a 5-megapixel webcam with an electronic privacy shutter. So even with Lenovos focus on the laptops futuristic screen, you still get a pretty well-rounded machine. Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable photos Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable photos Honestly, as someone who is always looking for more screen space while traveling (to the point where I often bring a portable monitor), I could see myself using the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 today as my primary work device. Its build quality feels a lot more solid than youd expect and lets not forget: the wow factor on something like this is hard to beat. That said, the obvious downside is its cost, because with the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 expected to start at $3,500 when it goes on sale sometime later this spring, youre paying a hefty premium to be on the very cutting edge of laptop tech. That means at least for now, systems like the Yoga Book 9i (which has gotten a couple of important updates for 2025) and ASUS Zenbook Duo are better choices for most people as they offer similar amounts of added screen space but for much less money. But if Lenovo can get the price down even a bit, it could open up another pathway for a new breed of transforming notebooks with deceptively small displays. Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Maingear is one of the original boutique PC makers that popularized water-cooled rigs more than 20 years ago. However, after focusing more on air-cooled systems over the past few years, at CES 2025 the company is returning to its roots with two stunningly-crafted machines in the Apex Force and Apex Rush. Based on Phanteks NV9 case, the Apex Force is the unquestionable flagship in Maingears new 2025 lineup. It weighs upwards of 50 pounds and has pre-bent hardline tubes that have been angled 10 degrees to match the distinctive sloped design of its enclosure. It boasts not one but two separate cooling loops for its CPU and GPU with massive dual 420mm radiators, three 140mm fans plus another 65mm intake on the bottom to push all that hot air out. Hands-on photos of Maingear's Apex Force desktop from CES 2025 Hands-on photos of Maingear's Apex Force desktop from CES 2025. But what I appreciate the most are some of the signature touches Maingear included to make maintaining the system easier, even for someone who may have zero experience with liquid-cooled setups. The Apex Forces reservoir is entirely clear, which not only looks great but makes it easy to do a visual check on water levels. More importantly, Maingear installed two quick-disconnect fittings for the systems pump and drain ports, so in the event you need to change out water or perform a repair, you can empty the desktop without risking splashing liquid on sensitive components. And of course, almost all of the PCs components and even the color of its tubes, fittings and RGB lighting can be customized to your desire. The limit is pretty much the size of your budget. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Meanwhile, for those who want something a bit more compact (though thats relative in this case), the Apex Rush represents a small step down to a rig based on a mid-tower case from Lian-Li (the O11 EVO RGB). Unlike the Apex Force, the Rush uses a single cooling loop thats augmented by seven 120mm fans (with optional RGB) meant to create a positive pressure environment to ensure optimal airflow while also keeping dust out. In fact, Maingear is so confident about its fan arrangement, it didnt bother to equip the Apex Rush with dust filters, claiming those would actually decrease thermal performance and cleanliness. And in a first for Maingear, this system can be configured with neoprene soft tubing with braided sleeves for anyone looking for an alternative to custom hard lines. Hands-on photos of Maingear's Apex Rush desktops from CES 2025 Hands-on photos of Maingear's Apex Rush desktops from CES 2025. But for me, what elevates the Apex Rush line even over the Force is that alongside the standard models, Maingear will also release three themed variants. Theres a Miami Vice-inspired model, one with cyberpunk stylings and my favorite, a lucky cat-inspired option. Each one features automotive-grade paintjobs littered with hand-drawn art and they are absolutely gorgeous. There are tons of subtle details such as pictures with various textures within the same illustration, multiple gamer-themed easter eggs, plenty of RGB lighting and matched tubing to fit each versions particular aesthetic. The custom Apex Rush rigs are truly works of art, though, as youd expect from heavily configurable systems, they wont come cheap. That said, Maingear has yet to reveal official pricing for both the Apex Force and Apex Rush lines. However, the company says that due to high expected demand, anyone interested in one of these PCs should try to snag a spot in line with a fully refundable $100 deposit when reservations officially go live today on Maingears website . Engadget spent the week of January 5 reporting live from CES 2025 in Las Vegas. See our picks for the Best of CES 2025. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a big shift in the company's approach to moderation and speech. Meta will be suspending its fact-checking program and will move to an X-style Community Notes model on Facebook, Instagram and Threads. In a video, Zuckerberg said that Meta has "built a lot of complex systems to moderate content" in recent years. ""But the problem with complex systems is they make mistakes," he said. "Even if they accidentally censor one percent of posts, that's millions of people." He went on to say that we're now at the point where there have been "too many mistakes and too much censorship." To that end, he said, "we're gonna get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms." That's going to start with a switch to "Community Notes, similar to X, starting in the US." ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement The company plans to phase in Community Notes in the US over the next few months and iterate on them over this year, all the while removing its fact checkers and ending the demotion of fact-checked content. Meta will also make certain content warning labels less prominent. Meta's new Chief Global Affairs Officer and Nick Clegg's replacement Joel Kaplan wrote in a blog post that the company has seen the Community Notes "approach work on X where they empower their community to decide when posts are potentially misleading and need more context, and people across a diverse range of perspectives decide what sort of context is helpful for other users to see." Meta says it will be up to contributing users to write Community Notes and to decide which ones are applied to posts on Facebook, Instagram and Threads. "Just like they do on X, Community Notes will require agreement between people with a range of perspectives to help prevent biased ratings," Kaplan wrote. "We intend to be transparent about how different viewpoints inform the Notes displayed in our apps, and are working on the right way to share this information." The Community Notes model hasn't entirely been without issue for X, however. Studies have shown that Community Notes have failed to prevent misinformation from spreading there. Elon Musk has championed the Community Notes approach but some have been applied to his own posts to correct falsehoods that he has posted. After one such incident, Musk accused "state actors" of manipulating the system. YouTube has also tested a Community Notes model. ASSOCIATED PRESS Meanwhile, Zuckerberg had some other announcements to make, including a simplification of certain content policies and ditching "a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse. What started as a movement to be more inclusive has increasingly been used to shut down opinions and shut out people with different ideas, and it's gone too far. I wanna make sure that people can share their experiences and their beliefs on our platforms." ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement When asked to provide more details about these policy changes, Meta directed Engadget to Kaplan's blog post. In addition, the filters that Meta had used to search for any policy violations across its platforms will be focused on "illegal and high-severity violations." These include terrorism, child sexual exploitation, drugs, fraud and scams. For other, less-severe types of policy violations, Meta will rely more on users making manual reports, but the bar for removing content will be higher. "Were going to tune our systems to require a much higher degree of confidence before a piece of content is taken down," Kaplan wrote. In some cases, that will mean multiple reviewers looking at a certain piece of content before reaching a decision on whether to take it down. Along with that, Meta is "working on ways to make recovering accounts more straightforward and testing facial recognition technology, and weve started using AI large language models (LLMs) to provide a second opinion on some content before we take enforcement actions." Last but not least, Meta says it's taking a more personalized approach to political content across its platforms after attempting to make its platforms politically agnostic for the past few years. So, if you want to see more political stuff in your Facebook, Instagram and Threads feeds, you'll have the choice to do so. As with donating to Donald Trump's inauguration fund, replacing longtime policy chief Nick Clegg with a former George W. Bush aide and appointing Trump's buddy (and UFC CEO) Dana White to its board, it's very difficult to see these moves as anything other than Meta currying favor with the incoming administration. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement Many Republicans have long railed against social media platforms, accusing them of censoring conservative voices. Meta itself blocked Trump from using his accounts on his platforms for years after he stoked the flames of the attempted coup of January 6, 2021. "His decision to use his platform to condone rather than condemn the actions of his supporters at the Capitol building has rightly disturbed people in the US and around the world," Zuckerberg said at the time. "We believe the risks of allowing the President to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great." Meta removed its restrictions on Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts last year. Zuckerberg explicitly said that Trump's election win is part of the reasoning behind Meta's policy shift, calling it "a cultural tipping point" on free speech. He said that the company will work with Trump to push back against other governments, such as the Chinese government and some in Latin America, that are "pushing to censor more." He claimed that "Europe has an ever-increasing number of laws institutionalizing censorship and making it difficult to build anything innovative there." Zuckerberg also took shots at the outgoing administration (over an alleged push for censorship) and third-party fact checkers, who he claimed were "too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they created." These are all significant changes for Meta's platforms. On one hand, allowing more types of speech could increase engagement without having to rely on, say, garbage AI bots. But the company may end up driving away many folks who don't want to deal with the type of speech that could become more prevalent on Instagram, Facebook and Threads now that Meta is taking the shackles off. "Now we have an opportunity to restore free expression and I am excited to take it," Zuckerberg said. While he noted that "it'll take time to get this right and these are complex systems that are never gonna be perfect," and that the company will still need to work hard to remove illegal content, "the bottom line is that after years of having our content moderation work focused primarily on removing content, it is time to focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our systems and getting back to our roots about giving people voice." Update January 7, 2:58PM ET: Noting that Meta responded to our request for comment. If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez have now finalized their divorce after nearly five months of separation, with the couple agreeing on a seemingly amicable financial split and other terms of the dissolution of their marriage, new reports confirm. Indeed, the official divorce as it appear on the books will see both Ben and Jennifer keeping the assets they each acquired individually during their two-year marriage perhaps an unsurprising development. Additionally, Lopez will revert back to her maiden name for official use. Ben, 52, retains his share in the production company Artists Equity, which he co-founded with Matt Damon in 2022. The company has since produced several hit films, including Air and The Instigators. Jennifer Lopez, 55, will also keep her projects from the marriage, including her work on movies like Shotgun Wedding and her album This Is Me... Now. The news was first reported by TMZ and confirmed by multiple sources. The former couple has also come to terms with their $61 million Beverly Hills home, which is currently up for sale. The specific terms of the home sale remain confidential. Interestingly, despite not having a prenup, their divorce settlement mirrors what would typically be outlined in one. Mediated by celebrity divorce attorney Laura Wasser, the agreement divides assets similarly to what a prenuptial agreement might have stipulated. The couple's split, which began after Jennifer filed for divorce in August 2024, has been relatively smooth. Sources say that Ben was not particularly involved in the legal details of the divorce, leaving much of the process to Jennifer. In fact, he had already moved out of their shared mansion months before the filing, reportedly settling into a $20 million home in Pacific Palisades. The split comes exactly two years after their high-profile wedding in Georgia, which followed a quick Las Vegas elopement. While the couple's relationship has been filled with public ups and downs, they reportedly remain on amicable terms. Although the divorce marks the end of their short-lived marriage, it's not the first time the two have been involved in an on-again, off-again relationship. They initially dated in the early 2000s before calling off their engagement just days before their planned wedding in 2003. After nearly two decades apart, they rekindled their romance in 2021. However, their second attempt at marriage appears to be coming to a close, with both walking away from the marriage with what they came into it with. Tom Holland's proposal was a family affair rather than merely a romantic gesture. He reportedly secured Zendaya's parents' approval before proposing to her. "Tom and Zendaya's families are ecstatic," Page Six's insider revealed. "Zendaya's mom (Claire Stoermer, dad Kazembe Ajamu Coleman) and sisters can't wait to start planning with her." The actress has five older half-siblings, sisters Katianna, Annabella, and Kaylee, and brothers Austin and Julien, also known as "EZ." Zendaya was reportedly taken by surprise when Holland decided to ask for her hand in marriage, with the source revealing, "Tom and Zendaya had discussed marriage over the years, but Zendaya had no idea he was planning to propose." "They both value their privacy, so the proposal was something Tom wanted to keep private as well," the source added. Zendaya is engaged to Tom Holland, TMZ reports. pic.twitter.com/OByKE17bEO Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 6, 2025 Regarding the timing of the wedding, the insider revealed no specific date or arrangements have been made at this point. The source emphasized, "It's far too soon to start thinking about any of that yet. They're still celebrating the exciting news." A separate source spoke to PEOPLE revealed that Zendaya and Holland are looking forward to savoring their engagement before making any further plans. "They will just enjoy things for now and won't rush a wedding. They are both busy with work projects." Holland is absolutely thrilled, with the source expressing, "Tom's always had this sweet way of letting the world know that Zendaya is his. Now, it's official she really is!" zendaya with a diamond ring on THAT finger omg pic.twitter.com/1f6toDxW81 pop culture gal (@allurequinn) January 6, 2025 There were rumors that the 28-year-old "Euphoria" star and the "Cherry" actor were engaged during Sunday's Golden Globes. Later, TMZ verified that he had proposed to her. During the event, Zendaya skillfully evaded questions about her relationship status when a curious reporter from the Los Angeles Times inquired about her engagement. As she made her way out of the ceremony room, the reporter, who had recently gotten engaged herself, subtly gestured towards her left ring finger in hopes of getting a clue from Zendaya. In a playful gesture, the actress "responded by flashing her own bling on her left hand, doing a sort of jazz-fingers motion." In response to questions about a potential engagement, Zendaya playfully shrugged her shoulders, smiled slyly, and kept showing off her ring, creating a sense of suspense. Although there were rumors of a sexual relationship between Holland and Zendaya in 2021, the two really became friends in 2016. A significant but lesser-known moment in the love story of Prince William and Kate Middleton has emerged with new details on their early romance. While many believe their romance began in March 2002 at a fashion show, as also depicted in Netflix's drama series "The Crown," their first date had actually been months earlier. Laura Warshauer, a friend of the couple from their St. Andrews University days, disclosed to Daily Mail that they were not as public about their first date as the media would lead people to believe. Prince William, she said, paid 200 ($250) at a charity auction to take Kate out on a date at a Harry Potter-themed party. His playful manner also hinted at his romantic interest long before their romance became an open book to the public. Warshauer recalled how the couple connected over classic university experiences early in their relationship. "I met them the same week they met each other. I was struck by how normal Will was. You could talk about anything the most mundane things." she recalled. "Coming back from a trip home to New Jersey with my big luggage, Will would grab my bag and take it inside the dorm," Warshauer recounted. Their friendship blossomed in the peaceful and charming St. Andrews. Warshauer recalled time spent eating lunches in the university's dining hall and spending time together socially, all of which would help foster memories for their future love. The famous fashion show often overshadows the earliest moments of their budding relationship. This fashion show is best known as the time Prince William first publicly acknowledged Kate's beauty after seeing her strut in a revealing outfit. But she added that by then, Prince William and Kate already had a strong bond. They had instant chemistry, she said. Warshauer also remembered a time at a party when Kate swooped in to save her now-husband from an awkward chat, highlighting their chemistry. "It was early on when Will and Kate were getting to know each other. This girl was talking to Will and he was being polite but it was obvious he needed a way out," she said. "All of a sudden Kate walks up from across the room, puts her arms around him and enables him to turn to this other girl and be like 'I'm sorry, I have a girlfriend,'" she continued. She then shared that William looked at Kate and silently expressed his gratitude by mouthing the words "Thank you." Actor Elijah Wood has seemingly confirmed his marriage to longtime partner Mette-Marie Kongsved during a recent appearance on the Inside of You podcast. According to TMZ, the Lord of the Rings star referred to Kongsved as his "wife" while expressing gratitude for his family during his conversation with host Michael Rosenbaum. Witnesses state that the couple exchanged vows in Sweden on New Year's Eve 2024 in an intimate ceremony attended by approximately 80 friends and family members. Wood and Kongsved, a film producer, have maintained a private relationship since they were first linked publicly in January 2018. The couple has two children together, a son and a daughter, though they've kept details about their family life largely out of the public eye. The podcast appearance marks the first time Wood has publicly acknowledged his marriage to Kongsved, with both he and the host using the term "wife" during their conversation. Neither Wood nor Kongsved have offered additional commentary on their marital status. Chopper "Young City" Barnes of the cult-favorite hip hop series, Making The Band on MTV, has finally broken his silence on Sean "Diddy" Combs' plethora of sexual assault allegations. During an interview released by The Art of Dialogue, the former Da Band rapper who took part in the early 2000's series gave his perspective on the now-disgraced rap tycoon, also his former boss. The music mogul is currently facing charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. Chopper feels the plethora of cases against him came as a form of "karma." "I believe it's a double-edged sword... It's bittersweet, bruh. The things that Diddy has done to so many artists on his label is so diabolical," Chopper, 39, began to express. "I think Diddy means well, but if you live a certain lifestyle for so long, you stop treating people like human beings and you start treating people like objects." The 3rd Ward Louisiana rapper expressed his beliefs that Diddy "means well" and cited his lawsuit against French vodka brand Ciroc as a precursor to his public downfall. "It's ironic how things crashed on him," the rapper said. Regarding Diddy's ex-Cassie Ventura who's physical abuse footage surfaced in May last year the rapper stated that there's no doubt that he "beat that girl," adding that the hip hop boss seemingly forgot that his superstar status puts a "scope" on his lifestyle. "As a celebrity, anything you say or do can be used against you in the court of celebrity," the musician stated. "Do I think Diddy is a sex trafficker? I don't," Chopper defended, while acknowledging the mogul's "UFO-ish" behavior. "I don't think he's a sex trafficker, I just think he'd done so much that the universe tends to unravel the way it should. When you do right by people, it comes back. And when you do wrong by people, you get what you deserve. I think at this moment in life Diddy is getting the karma that he quite deserves," he revealed. During the interview, Young City reflected on his own sexual assault accusations, as the Louisiana rapper was reportedly charged with being a pimp in Las Vegas, accidentally according to him. In 2022, Chopper was charged with sex trafficking after Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department detectives said the raper used his social media following to recruit women to be sex workers, per WUSA 9. During the interview, Chopper stated he flew a woman in to have intercourse, which he was unaware was considered trafficking. According to him, police later looked into him as "hot" after an unnamed woman told authorities he had cars, money, and was "pimping." He claimed those charges have since been dropped. "When I went through that situation, I thought about everything that I was doing wrong," the "Tonight" rapper connected, regarding taking accountability. "I think at this moment it's time for Diddy to eat the karma cake, courtesy of the artist that he milked." He continued: "The Craig Macks, the Biggies, Da Band, Danity Kane, Shyne, Black Rob it's only a certain amount of time you can take, take, take, before the universe just reverse that." "I think it's just time for him to get the humble pie, and the universe has basically taken what he has been taking for all these years and I think that's what's going on," he added. Chopper appeared in Diddy's hit MTV series Making The Band in 2002. Other members of the band included Sara Rivers, Dylan Dilinjah, Frederick "Freddy P" Watson, Lloyd "Ness" Mathis, and Lynese "Babs" Wiley. En espanol Controversy continues to swirl around the 2024 Miss Universe pageants months after the event. The organization has announced the removal of another contestant following public statements from her that raised concerns about irregularities in the pageant. What Miss Argentina said Argentine contestant Magali Benejam, who secured a spot in the top 12 at the November 2024 pageant in Mexico, has been stripped of her title after making public comments questioning the contest's legitimacy. In an interview with content creator King Lucho, Benejam expressed dissatisfaction with the selection process, criticized the behavior of some contestants, and suggested that results may have been manipulated. Benejam claimed that during the selection of the Top 5 contestants, judges appeared visibly surprised at the result, fueling her belief that something suspicious occurred. "The judges started looking at each other as if to say, 'This isn't what we chose,'" she said. She also revealed that Denmark's representative had at least three security guards with her in the final days of the competition, adding to speculation about her victory. According to Benejam, people even told her that the outcome had been decided 10 days prior, although she was unaware of it at the time. Benejam also spoke about Miss Dominican Republic, Celinee Santos. She claimed Santos repeatedly displayed questionable behavior, including interrupting her in group videos and cutting in line during an event. The Miss Universe Organization responds The Miss Universe organization responded swiftly. In an official statement, they announced Benejam's dismissal after "a thorough review," citing that her remarks contradicted the pageant's core values of "celebrating diversity, promoting inclusion, and respecting all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or experiences." "The words and actions of our representatives must reflect these unwavering principles to which all participants commit upon joining the Miss Universe community. The decision comes after careful consideration and aligns with our commitment to uphold the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. We want to emphasize that this action is taken to protect the integrity of the organization and the opportunities it provides to women around the world. We thank the public for their understanding and continued support as we work to ensure that the Miss Universe Organization remains an example of excellence and social responsibility. Miss Universe Organization" Originally published in The Latin Times Here You got ten historical events for each day, January 7th. 1789 First U.S. Presidential Election The first presidential election in the U.S. began, leading to George Washington's victory. 1610 Galileo Discovers Jupiter's Moons Galileo Galilei observed Jupiters four largest moons, changing the understanding of the solar system. 1953 Hydrogen Bomb Development Announced U.S. President Harry Truman revealed the successful development of the hydrogen bomb. 1955 Marian Anderson at the Met Marian Anderson became the first African American to perform with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. 2015 Charlie Hebdo Attack A terrorist attack at the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris resulted in 12 deaths. 1927 Commercial Transatlantic Phone Service Begins The first transatlantic phone call was made between New York and London. 1999 U.S. Senate Begins Clinton Impeachment Trial The U.S. Senate began the impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton. 1782 First U.S. Bank Chartered The Bank of North America, the first U.S. commercial bank, was chartered. 1990 Leaning Tower of Pisa Closed Italy closed the Leaning Tower of Pisa for safety reasons due to its tilt. 2012 The EU Oil Embargo on Iran The European Union imposed an oil embargo on Iran due to its nuclear program. Seeing parents age can get emotional for loved ones. Watching a parent grow older can stir a mix of emotionslove, concern, and sometimes fear. You may notice small changes at first, like a forgotten appointment or a cluttered home, but over time, these signs can add up to bigger questions about their ability to remain independent. For many adult children, these moments mark the beginning of a difficult journey filled with uncertainty and tough decisions. Matt McCann, a leading expert on long-term care planning, has seen it often in the decades he has been helping clients nationwide. McCann says it's natural to feel conflicted about stepping in. After all, your parents have always taken care of you. But recognizing when help is neededand knowing how to provide itcan make all the difference in preserving their safety, dignity, and quality of life. Signs That Help May Be Needed McCann suggests looking for red flags that signal potential issues. Physical signs may include unexplained weight loss, poor hygiene or noticeable bruises. Cognitive changes, such as memory lapses, confusion or difficulty completing everyday tasks, can also indicate a problem. Emotional or behavioral shifts, such as withdrawal from social activities or sudden mood swings, may point to underlying health or mental health concerns. Additionally, missed appointments, unpaid bills and cluttered or unsafe living conditions can suggest difficulty managing household responsibilities. Steps to Take if You Have Concerns Start the Conversation Early: Approach the topic with compassion and respect. Express your concerns without judgment, and focus on your parent's well-being. Assess Needs and Risks: Evaluate your parent's ability to perform activities of daily living, such as cooking, cleaning and managing medications. Consider consulting a geriatric care manager or social worker for a professional assessment. Check for Long-Term Care Insurance: Determine whether your parent has an LTC Insurance policy, which can help cover costs for home care, assisted living or nursing home care. McCann says that, often, adult children were unaware that their parents had bought an LTC policy. Locate the policy and review coverage details to understand available benefits. Explore Community Resources: Contact local agencies on aging for information on services such as meal delivery, transportation and home health aides. Consult Healthcare Providers: Schedule a comprehensive medical evaluation to address potential physical or cognitive health issues. Encourage your parent to keep their physician informed about any recent changes. Find Quality Caregivers or Facilities: If your loved one needs care, research care options and associated costs. Tools like the LTC News Cost of Care Calculator can help estimate expenses based on location and care type. The LTC News Caregiver Directory has the largest database of caregivers, home health agencies, adult day care centers, senior communities, assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes in the United States, and it is easy to use. Addressing Resistance to Help Many older adults resist assistance, fearing a loss of independence. Listen to their concerns and involve them in decision-making as much as possible. Focus on solutions that preserve autonomy while ensuring safety. If your loved one has an LTC policy, be sure they use the benefits from their policy without delay, even if it is to give family caregivers a break. LTC NEWS offers free help processing claims from any Long-Term Care Insurance policy. Partnering with Amada Senior Care, a renowned in-home healthcare agency, LTC NEWS ensures that you and your loved ones have the funds from their LTC policy to receive quality care. There is no cost or obligation for this service - Filing a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim. Legal and Financial Considerations Establishing powers of attorney for healthcare and finances can simplify decision-making in emergencies. Reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations also helps protect your parent's assets. Final Thoughts Watching a parent age can be emotional and challenging, but taking proactive steps can ease the transition. By staying attentive, involving professionals and utilizing available resources, you can help your loved one maintain independence and dignity for as long as possible. However, the time to start thinking about your aging and future need for care should start now, when you are younger and healthier. You can learn about long-term care planning before speaking with a specialist like McCann. Long-Term Care Insurance Education and Resources Get Professional Planning Help Matt McCann represents the top-rate insurance companies that offer long-term care solutions. His innovative approach enables clients to consult with him via phone while viewing his computer screen, making the education, exploration, and selection of options convenient and transparent. Learn about the top long-term care planning options available for 2025 You can get free and accurate quotes from all the top companies, along with professional recommendations - Free and Accurate Quotes. Media Availability McCann is available for radio, TV, and podcast interviews. He also speaks to groups and organizations worldwide on the issues of aging, caregiving, health, and long-term care. Contact McCann through his website for information. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. KALISPELL In front of a standing-room only crowd, the Flathead County Commissioners voted Tuesday to turn down a $9 million investment in affordable housing provided by the state and private entities, one of just three counties to vote against the homebuyer assistance program. The 2023 Legislature enacted the Montana Community Reinvestment Plan through House Bill 819 to allocate $56 million in state funding to provide homebuyer assistance to low- and middle-income residents. The program was intended to address the rising cost of housing across Montana, where the median home price hit a record high $452,050 last month, according to Zillows Home Values Index. In Flathead County, the median home price is more than $650,000, making it one of the states most expensive places to live. However, the county commission in a 2-to-1 vote turned down the funding, which will instead be reallocated to the counties that opted into the program. Im convinced HB 819 takes money from the pockets of you, the taxpayers, and redistributes it across the state of Montana, Commissioner Randy Brodehl told the crowd of more than 50. Im also convinced the risk to the taxpayers who are providing the money and the risk to the first-time homebuyers is not a reasonable option for the Flathead. Commissioner Brad Abell was the only vote in support of the funding. During the last few weeks, the Flathead County Commissioners heard public comment from dozens of constituents in person and received more than 50 written comments. Overwhelmingly, the comments favored accepting the funds. I want to have the ability to buy a house, Im ready to start building my own equity instead of paying rent. I want something that is mine and cant be sold out from under me. I want stability and autonomy over my life and to feel safe where I live. Owning a home would provide this to me, Jill Davis, a long-time renter in the valley, wrote to the commissioners. Everyone I know has a housing story. Everyone is trying to buy their first home or people are having to move away because they cant buy a house or afford rent, Davis told the Daily Montanan in a subsequent phone call. I feel like its the No. 1 problem we have in Montana right now. Were drowning out here, and it makes no sense to block this. Several organizations and businesses submitted letters in support of the program, including the Northwest Montana Association of Realtors, Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, Logan Health, Applied Materials and officials from all three cities in the county. The opportunity to benefit from $9 million in resources dedicated to workforce housing and homeownership is crucial for our community, wrote Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson. HB 819 isnt the total solution, its just one piece of the puzzle that can help drive additional entry level homes to be built at NO cost or risk to our county, wrote Whitefish Finance Director Lanie Gospodarek. This isnt big government taking over, its investing the benefits of our recent economy on our future tax base and partnering with private investors to leverage the funding. During the meeting, Brodehl spoke at length about HB 819, which he previously called a socialized program. The bill also included $169 million for other housing-related programs. Even though the county commission was only voting on a single $50 million program within the bill, Brodehl decried the full $225 million fiscal note and said he was disappointed in anyone who only talked about the portion of the money allocated to the community reinvestment plan. Of the $225 million of taxpayer money, it could be paid back to the taxpayers, Brodehl said, pointing to the property tax rebates issued by the state this year. It could have happened with this money. Community Reinvestment House Bill 819, passed by the 2023 Legislature with bipartisan support, created several programs designed to address housing issues across the state. One of those, the Montana Community Reinvestment Act, created a deed-restricted housing program funded with $50 million of state money that will be allocated proportionally to counties based on their gross domestic product. An additional $6 million is set aside for counties near state-owned facilities that house at least 100 inmates Deer Lodge, Custer and Powell counties as a state workforce housing incentive. The bill requires counties to affirmatively opt into the program and designate a Community Reinvestment Organization a federally recognized charitable organization or certified economic or housing development organization as a partner to oversee the program and its funding. Partner organizations are also responsible for matching the state funds with private investment, doubling the total pot of money to $112 million. Under the homebuyer assistance program, residents who make from 60% to 140% of the area median income qualify for interest-free loans up to 30% of the total purchase price for a home. The program also caps monthly payments for the home at 30% of gross income and deed restricts the houses so owners can only realize a 1% per year increase in value with excess going back into a fund to perpetuate the program. As of Tuesday afternoon, the last day for counties to opt into the program, just three counties Flathead, Sweet Grass and Fallon had voted against the funds and two others Richland and Daniels took no action, effectively opting out. Richland County Commissioner Duane Mitchell told the Daily Montanan that the program was a bad deal that was akin to socialism, and applauded the actions of the Flathead commissioners for talking sense. Making their case In person on Tuesday, nearly 20 members of the public talked about seeing friends, family members and young professionals move away due to housing costs. Drew Rafkin, a Kalispell resident, told the commissioners that the implications of HB 819 are still important to her even though shes already a homeowner. Id be happy if all my taxes went to House Bill 819 because I have watched so many smart college students and young entrepreneurs move out of the Flathead Valley, most recently, and not come back, Rafkin said. I think it would really be a spark to this community, and if we want our small businesses to stay open, we need to help them give their workers a reason to stay. Three opponents to the housing funding spoke before the commissioners, including Doug Adams, a Republican who unsuccessfully challenged state Sen. Dave Fern in Novembers election. As a small business owner, I am acutely aware of the impact of the high cost of housing on potential employees, Adams said. I submit to you that these housing problems are my employees problems, and theyre my problems. Theyre not government problems, and I dont need government solutions. Montana Rep. Tanner Smith, a Republican from Lakeside who mounted an unsuccessful primary challenge to Gov. Greg Gianforte, also gave public comment and told the commissioners that they needed to stand on our conservative principles, and turn down the money. Smith voted against HB 819 during the session and said it was rammed through at the governors request. A lot of people say, This isnt politics, but this is politics. This is Democrat policies in California that created the exodus to Montana, Smith said. As Republicans, what we cant do is have a knee-jerk reaction to fix a Democrat policy problem by more Democrat policies. HB 819 was sponsored by Republican Rep. Paul Green of Hardin, and passed the GOP supermajority-controlled legislature 67-32 in the House and 42-8 in the Senate. During discussion on the resolution, Commissioner Pam Holmquist said she had spent time asking questions and learning about the bill and still couldnt support the measure. I truly believe that government should never be in the business of picking and choosing winners and losers. Thats not governments role. The best thing the government could do is work on simplifying the rules and regulations that builders have to go through to provide the housing that we need, Holmquist said. She added that she was also concerned about the deed restriction and that homebuyers in the program could end up in debt. Its really hard for me to move forward with a program that has the potential to put these families into a worse position than they are now, Holmquist said. I cannot support this. Holmquist also said she had information from reliable sources that the housing market is correcting itself. The last thing that correction needs is injection of government funding. Commissioner Abell, the lone vote in favor of the program, said that while he found flaws in the program, he supported the resolution, not least because the money would be spent by other counties if turned down. Speaking on the phone after the vote, Commissioner Brodehl said for him the issue wasnt whether to support the community reinvestment program and assign a partnering agency, but about the full HB 819 legislation. One part of the bill he spoke about during the meeting was a section instructing the state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation to evaluate whether state trust lands could be used for potential attainable workforce housing development, which Brodehl said he has concerns about. The (community reinvestment) bill is wrapped into one bill. Its not broken into different bills, he said, adding that he didnt feel confident that the legislation was written in a way that clearly delineated how the full $225 million would be spent. In my mind, the entire bill was in play. Only one section of HB 819 allows a county to make an affirmative decision about the bills funding by selecting a partnering agency. No other part of the bill text allows for county input. Ian Fleming, a housing advocate with the nonprofit United Today Stronger Tomorrow, said he was disappointed in the commissions vote and the extent at which Brodehl in particular got hung up on the full text of the bill. It became abundantly clear to me that this became a hearing on the whole bill, not just the part that was actually on the table, he told the Daily Montanan. Im sure the rest of the counties will be thrilled to get their share of Flatheads $9 million. Its an extra windfall for Bozeman and Missoula. In the final stretch, counties schedule votes on homebuyer assistance On Tuesday, the deadline for counties to opt into the program, the Valley County Commission voted affirmatively to accept $310,000 in pre matched funds. On Monday, Sanders County voted 2-to-1 to accept their $360,000 allocation as well. Personally Id rather see the money go towards bridges, Sanders County Commissioner Tony Cox told the Daily Montanan. But the goofy part is, if you turn it down, itll get spent by someone else. Cox acknowledged that the Legislature could have left the counties out of the process entirely and allocated the funds directly, and said he understood that some elected officials dont like accepting grants or taxpayer money allocated from higher levels of government. Its just like feeding the deer. Feeding wildlife is illegal. If somebody does it, do you punish the deer or punish the guy feeding them? Dont punish us for accepting the money, Cox said. I think we have an obligation. If theyre going to offer funds to help out the community, we should do it. Of the states 56 counties, only five voted against the program or took no action, declining the funds by default. The Daily Montanan was unable to confirm the status of Sheridan or McCone counties. Flathead County was the only populous county to opt out of the funds, and the allocated $4.5 million and matching funds will be redistributed. We can really benefit a lot from the state money, said Roosevelt County Commissioner Gordon Oelkers, whose county was another late vote to opt in. Add in the matching funds, and if we get a little more because other counties didnt want it, we can benefit even more. It could only be a positive thing for our county. SALEM, Ohio Ohio Gov. DeWine signed a bill Jan. 2 that will send $10 million in drought relief funds to Ohio farmers. The funds will be directed from the Ohio Department of Agriculture to the county soil and water conservation districts, which will distribute it directly to farmers. The special state funding aims to fill gaps left by U.S. Department of Agriculture disaster relief programs for farmers who bought extra hay, paid to haul water and faced other unexpected costs from the historic drought that hit much of Ohio in 2024. All or parts of Guernsey, Noble, Belmont, Morgan, Muskingum, Monroe, Washington, Jefferson, Harrison, Tuscarawas and Carroll counties in southeast were still considered to be in drought on Jan. 1, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The drought relief funding bill ran out of time to make it on its own to the governors desk before the end of the legislative session. Language from the drought relief bill, and other riders, was packaged with Senate Bill 54, which passed both chambers on Dec. 18. It is not yet clear how the funds will be distributed to farmers. Related content: Drought relief funding passed Ohio General Assembly Ohio legislation would give $10M in emergency funding to farmers affected by drought Ohio farmers need more help to deal with drought: SWCD The first US death from avian influenza has been reported in a man who had been in contact with infected birds in a backyard flock. The man, who was older than 65 and from Louisiana, had been hospitalised with severe respiratory symptoms, state health officials said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed it was first death in the United States as a result of a bird flu infection. Officials said that the man had underlying medical problems and had been in contact with infected birds in a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. They also said a genetic analysis had suggested the bird flu virus 'H5N1' had mutated inside the patient, which could have led to the more severe illness. Since March 2024, a total of 66 confirmed bird flu infections have been reported in the United States, mainly in farmworkers. Louisiana health officials said in a statement that while the current public health risk for the general public remains low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk." "The best way to protect yourself and your family from H5N1 is to avoid sources of exposure," the statement added. "That means avoiding direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with bird flu viruses. It comes as the UK government recently confirmed it had prepared five million vaccine doses in case of an avian influenza pandemic this winter. The vaccines would be used if the H5N1 strain spreads among humans, as part of preparations for any possible influenza pandemic. There have been numerous cases of bird flu in backyard and commercial poultry since November 2024, mainly in Norfolk and East Yorkshire, where a mandatory housing order for poultry farmers and bird keepers is in force. However, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said at this stage "there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission". Dr Meera Chand, of the UKHSA, said: "It is important for us to be prepared against a range of different influenza viruses that may pose human health risks. "Early access to vaccines saves lives. Adding H5 vaccines to the interventions already available to us will help us to be ready for a wider range of threats. "It is only if this virus were to start spreading among humans, of which there is no evidence at this stage, that the human H5 influenza vaccine would be used." The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) said its teams were 'at the forefront' of the UKs response to avian influenza viruses through sampling and testing both wild and farmed birds. It said: "This work is of vital importance in preparing and responding to emerging pathogen threats to the UK, helping us to contribute to a better understanding of the disease and offering reassurance to the public." Rare, centuries-old slate shard fences are once more features of the farming landscape in the Lake District following careful restoration by farmers. A total of 260 metres worth of shard fences have been carefully restored at Jackson Ground, in the upper Lickle Valley, the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has confirmed. And in Hawkshead, 64 metres of new shards are currently being restored thanks to Defra's Farming in Protected Landscape (FiPL) grant, worth over 116,000. Whilst shard fencing is found in other parts of the UK, what makes the Lake District ones unique is that the shards interlock with each other. One of the beneficiaries of the funding is Celia Caulcott, whose farm at Jackson Ground in the Lickle Valley has historical farmstead records dating back over 500 years. Since 2018, the family-run farm has embarked on a long-term restoration program, including reinstating the traditional shard fencinga hallmark of the areas farming and cultural identity. Structures like these served as vital field boundaries, Ms Caulcott explained, adding that the shard fences are founding mainly in central Lake District. The fact that theyve endured is a testament to the Lake Districts long-standing pastoral farming traditions, which have helped secure its UNESCO World Heritage status. (Photo: LDNPA) At Jackson Ground, shard sizes vary significantly, with some standing as tall as five feet (1.5 meters) and requiring heavy machinery for placement. The installation process involved a team of up to three people and a digger, taking several months to complete. The result is a sturdy, gap-free boundary reinforced with hedging that supports local biodiversity. These fences are more than just practical, Ms Caulcott said, "Theyre green corridors that provide habitats for wildlife while preserving the character of our landscape. LDNPA area ranger Sara Spicer, who has overseen shard fence restoration in the Hawkshead area, emphasised the wide-ranging benefits of the project. Shard fencing is an incredible blend of practicality, heritage, and ecological value. For farmers, it provides a durable boundary for livestock," she explained. "For wildlife, the accompanying hedgerows act as vital corridors, enhancing biodiversity. And for visitors, these fences offer a glimpse into the traditional ways this land has been managed for centuries. As part of the project, Defra's FiPL grant also funded an interpretation panel installed along a nearby public footpath. Adam Devine "ballooned up" while his wife was pregnant. Adam Devine 'ballooned up' while his wife was pregnant and became determined to lose the weight he had gained The 41-year-old comedian has been married to Chloe Bridges since 2021 and revealed that while she was pregnant with Beau - who was born in February 2024 - he gained more weight than she did during that time. He told People: "It was a real thing for me. I just ballooned up, and I felt like I didn't look like myself. I'd look in the mirror, and it was like I was a cartoon version of myself. "Chloe, she was eating for two and building a human child. I wasn't building a human child, but it looked like I was,. "I gained more weight than she did I gained 28 pounds, I think she gained, like, 26 pounds. "I won't say it's a competition, but technically if it was, I won. And she had a whole human growing in her. Mine was just fat and obesity." The 'Righteous Gemstones' star wanted to feel like himself again so decided to track everything he ate and the exercise he undertook via a health app before noticing that the weight started to come off at a rapid pace. He said: "I just wanted to get back to feeling like me again. "I usually eat pretty healthy, or at least I think I'm eating healthy, but I was just eating too much of it. "So it helps with having the knowledge of what you're putting in your body." The 'Modern Family' actor even impressed his doctor during a recent visit, who was quick to point out that he was no longer considered "obese", although he was taken aback to realise he had even reached that level. He said: "I was at my annual physical and he was like, 'Wow, you're no longer obese.' And I'm like, 'Whoa. You're throwing that word around,' and he's like, 'You were,' and I'm like, 'You don't have to double down on it. I was hefty, for sure,'. "But it was nice to get back to feeling like myself, honestly." Ariana DeBose is set to star in a revival of 'Evita' in London. Ariana DeBose is to star in Evita The 'West Side Story' actress confirmed she is close to agreeing a deal to appear as Eva Peron in director Jamie Lloyd's take on the classic Sir Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical when it opens for a limited run at the iconic Palladium venue in the city in the summer. She told Deadline's columnist Baz Bamigboye: Fingers crossed, Were 70% there... "[I hope everything] will fall into place for me to be in London this summer. Ariana began talking to Jamie after the director's version of 'Sunset Boulevard' ran in London and the 33-year-old star is excited about his vision for 'Evita'. She said:"[I believe] youre going to do a revival of a property that is well known and well loved, its paramount to have a new vision, a new way in for todays audiences. "[Directors like Jamie are] willing to go out on a limb to remount these beloved productions. It feels very risky but if youre willing to go there." 'Evita' chronicles the life of actress and activist Eva Peron, the second wife of Argentine president Juan Peron and Ariana pointed out the character asks a lot of questions about women in politics, just as the US has seen during the recent presidential race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump so she thinks it is a timely tale to revisit. She said: Were seeing it playing out around the world as well, both in good ways and in ways that could prove to be quite negative. "A lot is said about women from the male gaze. We should ask ourselves what expectations do we hold them to and what fables, tales and truths do we tell ourselves about who we believe them to be, and who are they actually? Theres so much mystery around woman. Women are revered and feared for a reason because theyre powerful and it doesnt matter what circumstances you put them in. Its fabulous to be a woman, but it doesnt mean its easy. 'Evita' is scheduled for a 12-week limited season at the Palladium from 14 June until 6 September. Aubrey Plaza is "deeply grateful" to those who have offered their support following the death of her husband. Aubrey Plaza is 'deeply grateful' to those who have offered their support following the death of her husband The 40-year-old actress had been married to screenwriter Jeff Baena for nearly four years when he took his own life last Friday (03.01.25) at the age of 47 and she has now broken her silence on the tragedy. In a statement obtained by People, she said: "This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time." Baena's body was discovered by an assistant and he was later pronounced dead at the scene, according to TMZ. Police officials then told the news outlet that Baena had taken his own life. Baena was born and raised in Miami, before he studied at New York University Film School. He subsequently moved to Los Angeles and got his first big break working alongside filmmaker Robert Zemeckis. Baena served as a production assistant for the 'Back to the Future' director, working with him on a number of film projects. Baena also got the opportunity to work with David O. Russell, the award-winning director, and the duo ultimately collaborated on four scripts together. One of their scripts included 'I Heart Huckabees', the 2004 black comedy film that starred the likes of Dustin Hoffman, Isabelle Huppert and Jude Law. Baena made his directorial debut in 2014, when he helmed 'Life After Beth'. The filmmaker spent several years trying to get the zombie comedy film off the ground, and it was Aubrey Plaza - Baena's future wife - who ultimately helped to get it made. The 'Megalopolis' actress expressed an interest in playing the film's lead role, and her involvement with the project proved to be crucial. The couple also worked together on the 2021 drama series 'Cinema Toast', which marked Aubrey's directorial debut and featured Christina Ricci and Alison Brie. Baena and the actress began dating in 2011, but they always made a concerted effort to keep their relationship private. However, Aubrey announced their marriage to the world via an Instagram post in 2021, when she referred to Baena as her "darling husband". She wrote at the time: "So proud of my darling husband @jeffbaena for dreaming up another film that takes us to italia to cause some more trouble (sic)" Cynthia Erivo has thanked herself for her own success. Cynthia Erivo has thanked herself for her own success The 37-year-old actress had a career on Broadway before making it in film and after starring in the big screen adaptation of the musical 'Wicked' - which is the unofficial prequel to 'The Wizard of Oz' - alongside Ariana Grande, she has admitted that she wants her younger self to feel "proud" of what she has achieved. Asked what she would tell her younger self, she told Access Hollywood: "I would like her to know that she's worked very hard and she should be very proud of herself and I'd like to say thank you to her because I wouldn't get here without her. I'm here because she did the work!" Cynthia - who was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role as Elphaba but lost out to Demi Moore following her star turn in the new horror 'The Substance' - was then asked about her favorite memories of childhood and recalled growing up in London and taking weekend trips to the beach. She said: "Favourite memories of childhood, there was one day when my mum my sister, my godmother and I all went to Brighton Beach. There's a beach called Brighton Beach in London, in the UK and we used to go there for the weekend, it was really lovely. Brighton is 20 minutes outside of London, and you'd love it." Cynthia recently explained that she could relate to her 'Wicked' role because she knows what it feels like to be an outsider. She told OK!: I know what it is to not necessarily feel like the world is necessarily made for you or makes space for you and having to reckon with that, but also find ways of accepting it for yourself, accepting who you are fully and using that as your power." Hoda Kotb is launching her own wellness app. Hoda Kotb is launching a wellness app The 60-year-old TV star is set to leave the 'Today' show after nearly 17 years on the programme, and Hoda has revealed that she's already working on a new project. During a conversation on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show', the host told Hoda: "I have to say though, ma'am, as soon as they told me you were not doing the 'Today' show, I was like, 'So what's that b**** doing?' "I was like, 'Because there's no way you're not doing anything.' You're me, you like problems, you like working." Hoda admitted that she's determined to stay busy, before revealing her plans for her new wellness business. The TV host shared: "I like things, I do. "So, I kind of got hooked in the wellness space, like a couple of years ago. I started doing stuff that I thought seemed woo woo and weird, and then all of a sudden as I was doing it. I was like, 'Wait, I feel calmer, I feel better.'" Kelly, 42, then expressed her approval of Hoda's plans. The pop star said: "Woo woo makes you feel good!" Hoda is currently in the process of "building" her new business venture. But the veteran TV star is convinced that it has the potential to have a transformative impact. Hoda - who has previously released a series of books - explained: "We can get together, do things that I love, and when you're done, it's not like going to Mexico with your girls, which is fun, but this is something that when you leave, you'll go like, Oh my gosh. I feel transformed. I feel different.' So I'm in the building process of that." Mark Zuckerberg is scrapping independent fact-checkers on Facebook and Instagram. Mark Zuckerberg is ditching independent fact-checkers The 40-year-old Meta CEO believes the current process is too politically biased, arguing that fact-checkers have destroyed more trust than they have created, and Zuckerberg is now set to introduce community notes instead. In a video accompanying a blog post, he said: Were going to get rid of fact-checkers and replace them with community notes similar to X, starting in the US The fact-checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they have created especially in the US. Over the next couple of months, were going to phase in a more comprehensive community notes system. The billionaire businessman intends to work more closely with the US government in a bid to protect freedom of expression. Mr. Zuckerberg added: The US has the strongest constitutional protections for free expression in the world. Europe has an ever-increasing number of laws institutionalising censorship and making it difficult to build anything innovative there. "Latin American countries have secret courts that can order companies to quietly take things down. "China has censored our apps from even working in the country. "The only way we can push back on this global trend is with the support of the US Government. And thats why its been so difficult over the past four years when even the US Government has pushed for censorship. "By going after us and other American companies, it has emboldened other governments to go even further. "But now, we have the opportunity to resort to free expression, and I am excited to take it." The Meta boss has also announced plans to simplify content policies and to get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics, like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse. Turkiye's apparel imports from African countries increased further, but its exports to the bloc remained subdued from January to October 2024. Its apparel imports rose by 15.82 per cent, while exports surged by 26.82 per cent during the period. Trade data indicated that a similar trend was observed in previous years. Turkiye imported $366.611 million worth of apparel in the first ten months of 2024, which was 15.82 per cent higher than the $316.778 million shipped during the same period in 2023. However, its outbound shipment of apparel to Africa fell by 26.82 per cent to $401.259 million in the first ten months of 2024, compared to $548.317 million in the corresponding period of 2023, according to Fibre2Fashion's market insight tool TexPro. In the first ten months of 2024, Turkiye's apparel imports from Africa increased by 15.82 per cent to $366.611 million, while its exports to the continent fell by 26.82 per cent to $401.259 million. Despite these fluctuations, Africa remains a minor player in Turkiye's overall apparel trade, contributing only 12.24 per cent to imports and 2.84 per cent to exports. Turkiyes apparel imports from the continent were recorded at $378.159 million in 2023, which was 49.40 per cent higher than the imports of $253.584 million in 2022. However, its exports to the region dropped to $612.244 million in 2023 from $734.014 million in 2022, marking a decrease of 16.62 per cent for the year. This trend continued in the first ten months of the current year. Yet, Africa was not a very significant market for Turkiyes apparel trade. The country imported 12.24 per cent of its total apparel imports, amounting to $2.994 billion from January to October 2024, from Africa, according to TexPro. Africa's share was just 2.84 per cent of Turkiyes total apparel exports, which totalled $14.121 billion in the first ten months of 2024. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL) UKs mid-sized businesses are bracing for a challenging start to 2025 as 29 per cent companies with a turnover between 10-300 million (~$12.54-376.3 million) are grappling with significant supply chain challenges. These mid-size businesses are also facing issues such as delayed deliveries and inventory shortages disrupting operations and impacting their ability to meet customer demands, according to a bi-monthly survey conducted by accounting and advisory firm BDO. These challenges are being exacerbated by ongoing economic and geopolitical tensions, and the prospect of new tariffs on international trade from the incoming US presidential administration this month, BDO said in a press release. UK mid-sized businesses are facing a challenging 2025 due to supply chain issues (29 per cent) and rising costs (28 per cent). Many seek financial support (32 per cent), but half feel stronger than pre-pandemic. With 4.6 million (~$5.7 million) earmarked for growth, 47 per cent plan AI integration to boost efficiency. BDO urges government support to aid these resilient firms driving the economy. At the same time, rising operating costs continue to be a major challenge. Three in ten (28 per cent) companies now see the growing financial burden as their top concern going into the new year, with 32 per cent of mid-sized businesses anticipating the need for additional financial supportincluding bank loans or government grantsto help navigate the hurdles of 2025. Despite these challenges, many mid-sized businesses are entering 2025 with more confidence than at the start of the decade. Nearly half (49 per cent) feel they are in a stronger position than before the COVID-19 pandemic nearly five years ago. This is reflected in their investment intentions, with an average of 4.6 million (~$5.7 million) earmarked by mid-sized companies over the next two-five years. As part of their investment plans, almost half (47 per cent) of mid-sized companies is looking to integrate AI into their supply chain operations to streamline processes, reduce errors and improve overall efficiency. Furthermore, nearly a quarter (23 per cent) are planning to invest in specific roles to support AI adoption, added the release. Mid-sized businesses have faced a tough decade so far but, despite ongoing supply chain challenges and elevated costs, they are entering 2025 in a stronger position and with strong intent to invest in future growth, said Richard Austin, partner at BDO. We need the Government to throw its weight behind these ambitious, resilient mid-sized businesses. They are the engine room of the economy, employing more than eight million people across the UK. They need a more favourable operating environment, underpinned by policy and taxation, that enables better access to capital and encourages ongoing investment in new technologies. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG) The reverence that the late Irrfan Khans recall evokes is incredible. Five years later, references to his craft and characters, along with posts and reels on social media continue to honour the iconoclast of an actor, someone who unobtrusively achieved rank in an industry driven by elan and eclat.Languid language, ubiquitous underplay along with crushing intensity, this Khan had rizz of the real kind. Haasil, Paan Singh Tomar, Maqbool, Haider, The Namesake, Life In A Metro, Life of Pi, The Lunchbox, Piku, D-Day, Hindi Medium the roster is riveting as is the enduring emotional connect with his audiences.Instrumental in keeping the reminiscence alive is wife and writer Sutapa Sikdar, sharing as she does a sentimental reciprocity with Irrfans fans. They seem to be together in grief and exaltation. Every bit about Irrfan that Sutapa posts on social media receives overwhelming love from his fans world over.Given her sensibilities, Sutapa commemorates both the pride of being his partner and the pain of life without him with poetic deference. Gulzars lines, Dil mein kuchh yun sambhaalta hoon gham jaise zewar sambhaalta hai koi (I preserve pain in my heart like someone safeguards jewels) somewhere simulates her precious attachment extending beyond life and lifetimes That also explains why her WhatsApp status message reads: Some memories are forever. Excerpts:I guess its Irrfans honesty towards his craft. Though he didnt behave and live like a star, he came to rule hearts as a star. Fortunately, he didnt have to be relevant at that time by constantly posting on social media. He portrayed normal people on screen, which added to the connection. The normal life, feelings and situations of characters he portrayed is something audiences can relate to.Time heals is an oft-used but an incorrect adage for me. The only good thing about time is that it passes. Its not static. It doesnt heal the wounds but with time you get used to the pain and grief. You carry on because you have no choice. Its up to you how gracefully you live with the grief. I guess there are two options one is to just ignore it happened or face it and celebrate the person. I celebrate Irrfan.Yes. I was the one who didnt want to accompany him to Mumbai (Sutapa and Irrfan were classmates at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi before they got married in 1995). Our love brought me here leaving my home city Delhi. Initially, I disliked Mumbai. But our friendship created such memories that they bring a smile on my face today. Like our long drives on our motorcycle Yezdi, enjoying keema pao in a restaurant in Andheri West (it no longer exists), being so excited about our tiny flat in D.N. Nagar and our endless arguments on the kind of curtains we should have to finally driving all the way to Orissa Emporium (Navi Mumbai) to buy the fabric. It was friendship all the way.He considered me a good critic. But I regret the fact that many a time I missed saying how good he truly was.Its difficult to comment on an actors craft when the whole world talks about it. I wont call it genius but his trademark lay in the fact that he made the lines his own and spoke in a manner, which sometimes even left his directors surprised. In fact, he amazed viewers more during his last five years. His brilliance lay in the fact that whether his characters were black, white or grey, he made them entertaining. Be it a gangster in Maqbool (2003), poet Musafir in 7 Khoon Maaf (2011), the athlete-turned-rebel in Paan Singh Tomar (2012), Roohdar (based on the ghost character in Shakespeares Hamlet) in Haider (2014), a vigilante in Madari (2016), a shopkeeper in Hindi Medium (2017) or a father in English Medium (2020). The audience would believe in the character he played and also be entertained at the same time. As a character, you could love him; you could hate him but never dismiss him.I believe the label every womans sex-icon suited him more. Its just that the industry didnt look at him with this gaze before Maqbool.Irrfan was always a reader but he became an avid one at that time. I admired the fact that we didnt speak about his illness much. We spoke about nature, about plants, about stars and astronomy. He remained as curious as ever.He was religious from childhood. With time, he became spiritual as well and explored other religions and philosophy. Its not that he turned spiritual only after the illness.Nothing much. He just didnt care. But I remember we were in our farmhouse in Igatpuri and he was soaking in the sun and listening to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab.Its bound to be. Its my go-to place. Its my refuge and also a cave when I am overwhelmed.Generally, Irrfan liked everything which was non-obvious. This is such a lovely song of love of parting, of grief in love and life without love along with the desire to still be together. Irrfan loved the dichotomy in the song. He just loved Irshad Kamils lyrics.I regret not being able to tell Irrfan how much Id miss him. That my life would become one big question mark staring at space! I couldnt tell him that Id miss him like one misses rain in harsh summer or sunshine in a dark room. I didnt say all this because till the last day I was hopeful that hed survive (Irrfan passed away on 29 April, 2020).I just want him to know that one of his favourite Sahir Ludhianvi saab number, Yeh dil tum bin kahin lagta nahin hum kya kare (Izzat 1968) is the constant conversation between him and me now. Security heightens at Salman Khan's Galaxy Apartments amid him receiving death threats from Lawrence Bishnoi and gang. New security measures are being applied, including installing bulletproof glass at his home. Earlier, another video went viral on the internet that showed workers securing the windows of the superstar's home. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) A video shared by paparazzi shows how the installation is being done around the balcony at Salman's Galaxy Apartments. The balcony could be seen covered from all sides in blue bulletproof glass. Salman Khan has also been making public appearances. He recently celebrated his birthday and the New Years in Jamnagar. The actor has also been working on Sikandar, his Eid 2025 release. The last schedule will reportedly begin on January 10 in Mumbai. The cast includes Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Prateik Babbar, Kajal Aggarwal, and Sharman Joshi. Kingston, India's first sea-horror action-adventure trilogy, will hit theatres worldwide on March 7, 2025, with the teaser dropping on January 9, 2025. This highly anticipated project promises to take Indian cinema to new heights, offering an immersive and thrilling experience.Produced, scored, and led by GV Prakash Kumar, the film is a grand pan-India endeavour, set to release in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. The story blends spine-tingling horror and intense action, all set in the mysterious depths of the ocean, creating an edge-of-your-seat spectacle. Directed by Kamal Kumar Prakash, the film also stars Divya Bharathi and is backed by Zee Studios and GV Prakash's Parallel Pictures Universe. Kingston will be the first part of an epic three-part saga.With its unique mix of myth, mystery, and high-octane action, Kingston is positioned to make a significant mark on Indian genre cinema, appealing to both mass and class audience WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - NNN REIT, Inc. (NNN) Monday announced that its Chief Financial Officer Kevin Habicht is set to retire. He also plans to step down from the Board of Directors, effective March 31, 2025.Habicht has been Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since December 1993, Treasurer since January 1998, and a director since June 2000. He also served as Secretary from January 1998 to May 2003.Vincent Chao will join the company as the Executive Vice President on January 9, 2025, and take on the roles of Chief Financial Officer, Assistant Secretary, and Treasurer, and become the company's principal financial officer starting April 1, 2025.Chao most recently acted as the Managing Director of Finance at RPT Realty, a publicly traded retail real estate trust acquired by Kimco Realty in 2024. At RPT, Chao managed capital markets, corporate finance, investor relations, portfolio management, and data analytics.Monday NNN closed at $39.57 or 2.01% lower, aftermarket hours rose and closed at $40.35 or 1.97% higher.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. Back to media releases Next media release LONDON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Norgine today announced that it completed its marketing authorisation application filing to European Medicines Agency (EMA) for eflornithine in high-risk neuroblastoma (HRNB). This follows the submissions in April 2024, via Project Orbis, in Australia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. This milestone further supports Norgine's efforts to give patients access to eflornithine and bring a further treatment option in the field of paediatric oncology. Norgine and USWM, LLC (dba US WorldMeds), a Kentucky-based specialty pharmaceutical company, have an exclusive licensing agreement by which Norgine will register and commercialise eflornithine, also referred to as DFMO, in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. On 13 December 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved eflornithine as the first oral maintenance therapy for HRNB, indicated to reduce the risk of relapse in adult and paediatric patients who have received certain prior therapies.[1] The approval decision was based on findings from a trial comparing outcomes from patients treated with eflornithine in Study 3b (NCT02395666)[2],[4] to control patients derived from Study ANBL0032 (NCT00026312; clinical-trial-derived external control arm)[3],[4]. The study with eflornithine treated patients showed improved event-free survival and overall survival when compared to outcomes for patients with HRNB treated with the standard of care (SoC).[1] Dr David Gillen, Chief Medical Officer at Norgine, added, "This submission via the EU Centralised Procedure represents another important step in the regulatory process for eflornithine and further emphasises Norgine's passion and commitment in attempting to secure additional treatment options for patients living with HRNB, a condition with a high level of unmet medical need." Janneke van der Kamp, CEO of Norgine added "Submitting this marketing authorisation to the EMA marks a pivotal step for patients facing this challenging cancer. We are committed to advancing innovative therapies that address the unmet needs of young patients and their families, and this milestone brings us closer to offering hope where it's most needed". www.norgine.com Follow @norgine Notes to Editors: HRNB background Children diagnosed with HRNB undergo an intense SoC regimen that still leaves them vulnerable to relapse and death, a risk that is highest for the first two years after completing treatment.[5] Approximately 30% of patients who attain remission following upfront therapy will relapse, and once relapsed, mortality significantly increases with a post-relapse 4-year overall survival of under 10%.[5], [6] Therefore, avoiding relapse is key to long-term survival, yet outside of the United States there are no approved therapies for sustaining remission following SoC treatment. The data demonstrate that using eflornithine after completion of upfront SoC treatment, as post-maintenance therapy extends remission and reduces risk of relapse in patients with HRNB. About Norgine Norgine is a uniquely positioned, specialty pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare company, with over 500 million of annual revenues and a 120-year track record of bringing life-changing products to patients and consumers across our core markets of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Our integrated approach - strong commercial capabilities, deep medical, regulatory and clinical expertise, in-house manufacturing, robust supply networks, and best in class enabling functions - ensures that we can deliver high-quality, transformative medicines quickly and effectively to over 25 million patients annually. Today's Norgine is a nimble, innovative, and high-performing company that has been transformed by a relentless focus on operational excellence. This focus will enable us to secure the legacy of more than a century of innovation and doing the right thing by our patients, as we push the boundaries and take strides into new therapeutic areas. NORGINE and the sail logo are trademarks of the Norgine group of companies. References FDA approves eflornithine for adult and pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. FDA. News release. 13 December 2023. Available from: FDA approves eflornithine for adult and pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma | FDA Clinical Trial NCT02395666; Preventative trial of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) in high risk patients with neuroblastoma that is in remission. Available from: Study Details | Preventative Trial of Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) in High Risk Patients With Neuroblastoma That is in Remission | ClinicalTrials.gov. Clinical Trial NCT00026312; Isotretinoin with or without dinutuximab,[1] aldesleukin, and sargramostim following stem cell transplant in treating patients with neuroblastoma. Available from: Study Details | Isotretinoin With or Without Dinutuximab, Aldesleukin, and Sargramostim Following Stem Cell Transplant in Treating Patients With Neuroblastoma | ClinicalTrials.gov Oesterheld J, Ferguson W, Kraveka JM, Bergendahl G, Clinch T, Lorenzi E et al. Eflornithine as Postimmunotherapy Maintenance in High-Risk Neuroblastoma: Externally Controlled, Propensity Score-Matched Survival Outcome Comparisons. 2024; 42 (1): 90-102. Basta NO, Halliday GC, Makin G, Birch J, Feltbower R, Bown N, et al. Factors associated with recurrence and survival length following relapse in patients with neuroblastoma. Br J Cancer. 2016;115:1048-57. London WB, Bagatell R, Weigel BJ, Fox E, Guo D, Van Ryn C, et al. Historical time to disease progression and progression-free survival in patients with recurrent/refractory neuroblastoma treated in the modern era on Children's Oncology Group early-phase trials. Cancer. 2017;123:4914-23.[2] Job code: UK-ONC-NP-2400019 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/597589/4648918/Norgine_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/norgine-submits-marketing-authorisation-application-to-the-european-medicines-agency-for-eflornithine-difluoromethylornithine-dfmo-in-high-risk-neuroblastoma-302343047.html Georgetown, Guyana--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - In a groundbreaking collaboration, the University of Guyana Students' Society (UGSS) and Women's Haven Guyana have officially signed an agreement to launch the Washroom Amenities Project. The ceremonial signing was held at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association Board Room, marking a significant milestone in addressing the issue of feminine hygiene access on campus and beyond. (L_R) Tirishatha Semple, President of UGSS, and Ms. Lexann McPhoy, CEO of Women's Haven Guyana, signs agreement as Alicia Samaroo, Secretary of UGSS looks on. The project, spearheaded by UGSS, aims to ensure female students across the University of Guyana's campuses have access to essential sanitary products in washrooms. Women's Haven Guyana, known for its 100% organic sanitary pads and liners infused with graphene, is the primary partner in this initiative, supplying eco-friendly and health-conscious products designed to combat irritation, infections, and other health concerns associated with traditional feminine care products. Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Lexann McPhoy, CEO of Women's Haven Guyana, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: "This partnership goes beyond products; it's about empowering women and breaking the silence around feminine hygiene. Together, we are creating a healthier and more inclusive environment for students, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed." Tirishatha Semple, President of UGSS, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the transformational impact of the project: "The Washroom Amenities Project is a step toward enhancing the well-being of all students by transforming our campus washrooms into spaces that are comfortable, accessible, and equipped with essential items. Women's Haven Guyana has played a pivotal role in addressing period poverty through their generous support for the female washrooms. Additionally, the male washrooms will be equipped with various essential sanitary items to ensure a supportive environment for all students. The project is about creating a welcoming environment for everyone, ensuring that all students have access to dignified and homely facilities." The agreement outlines a pilot program during which Women's Haven Guyana will supply organic sanitary pads, liners, and extra-long liners to campus washrooms. UGSS has committed to promoting the initiative through education campaigns and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the project reaches its full potential. Key activities include: Hosting awareness sessions on feminine hygiene for male and female students. Highlighting the importance of allyship in addressing period poverty. Conducting regular evaluations to ensure the initiative's success. The partnership also aligns with national efforts to combat period poverty, a cause championed by Guyana's First Lady. By introducing this initiative, UGSS and Women's Haven Guyana are setting an example for public-private collaboration to address social issues. The Washroom Amenities Project is expected to expand its reach to other universities and educational institutions across Guyana, fostering a culture of health and dignity for students. About Women's Haven Guyana Women's Haven Guyana is a leading provider of organic feminine care products, committed to revolutionizing feminine hygiene and promoting women's health. The company's products are free from toxins, dyes, and fragrances, ensuring safety and comfort for women and girls. About UGSS The University of Guyana Students' Society represents the voices and interests of UG students, championing initiatives that improve student welfare and enhance campus life. For more information about the Washroom Amenities Project or to explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Women's Haven Guyana at (+592) 622-2822 or UGSS at ugss@uog.edu.gy UGSS Executives with Lexann McPhoy Press Inquiries Women's Haven Guyana https://lexannnsi.com/womens-haven-organic Theon Alleyne va@eiccio.com (+592)502-2438 57 Hadfield Street, 2nd Floor, Newburg, Georgetown, Guyana To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236229 SOURCE: University of Guyana Students' Society Lindon, Utah--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Angora, a Utah Valley-based ecommerce company, has surpassed a milestone by launching over 300 products and developing 120 private-label brands within five years of its founding. Angora Marks Milestone with 300 Product Launches and 120 Private Labels in Five Years To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/236118_e6306a85d4868901_002full.jpg Established in 2019, Angora has built a reputation for driving brand development on Amazon, positioning itself as a partner for businesses entering the ecommerce marketplace. The company's growth has been driven by an operational model that offers end-to-end brand creation and management services, focusing on sustainable and scalable growth. "At Angora, we see ourselves as more than just an agency. Our focus is on building brands designed to grow quickly and consistently," said Benjamin Wood, CEO and founder of Angora. "We've positioned Angora as a comprehensive ecommerce partner, taking on the operational responsibilities that many businesses find challenging." Angora operates on a partnership model where the company oversees creative, operational, and marketing strategies while clients provide capital. This structure allows Angora to handle the full brand development process, offering clients a hands-off experience while ensuring long-term scalability. The company's ability to scale brands has been supported by a network of manufacturers and logistics providers, streamlining product development and shipping. Angora's relationships with major logistics partners have enabled it to consolidate shipments into full container loads, securing competitive shipping rates typically reserved for large corporations. Angora's team evaluates more than 1,000 product opportunities each week, analyzing market data to identify the most promising candidates for development. This process, according to Wood, ensures that Angora consistently delivers products that perform well in competitive ecommerce environments. In addition to launching products, Angora's internal team manages growth, providing clients with turnkey solutions from initial concept to scaling. Wood emphasized that the goal is to build brands that not only generate revenue but are positioned for long-term success across a range of categories on Amazon. In 2025, Angora plans to expand its partner offerings and enhance resources for entrepreneurs and established businesses seeking growth on Amazon. More information about Angora's partnership opportunities can be found at joinangora.com. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236118 SOURCE: Plentisoft Southampton, Pennsylvania--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - Shield Concept, a tactical gear manufacturer, has expanded its product portfolio to include two innovative products: the Malinois Lightweight Modular Plate Carrier Vest and the Husky Low Profile Plate Carrier Vest. These vests provide high-quality tactical solutions for law enforcement, military professionals, and tactical enthusiasts. This product launch marks a significant step in Shield Concept's mission to provide reliable tactical gear that supports users in critical environments. Known for its durable products, the company aims to offer practical and dependable equipment for professionals who rely on quality gear in the field. The Malinois Lightweight Modular Plate Carrier Vest The Malinois Lightweight Modular Plate Carrier Vest is a versatile option built for adaptability across different tactical scenarios. It is available in MultiCam and OD Green, offering flexibility in both appearance and function. The vest supports various equipment configurations, making it suitable for field operations and critical missions. Key features include: Material: Crafted from 500D Cordura, reinforced with nylon thread and polyester webbing to ensure durability and resilience. Modular Integration: Velcro on the outer pockets allows for easy attachment of mission-critical accessories. Lightweight Design: Precision laser-cut construction enhances mobility and reduces overall weight without compromising strength. The Malinois vest's adaptability makes it suitable for professionals who require a versatile solution in the field. The Husky Low Profile Plate Carrier Vest The Husky Low Profile Plate Carrier Vest is specifically designed for covert operations. It can be discreetly worn under clothing, making it ideal for urban and suburban operations. Available in Coyote Brown, Ranger Green, and Wolf Gray, the vest offers options to blend in different environments. Key features include: Material: Built with MIL-SPEC 500D Cordura, featuring nylon thread and polyester webbing for strength and durability. Low-Profile Fit: A design optimized for discreet wear in covert operations. Adjustable Sizing: Adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit for users of all sizes. The Husky vest is engineered to support professionals who need covert and effective protection in sensitive scenarios. High-Performance Tactical Solutions Shield Concept has built a reputation for producing equipment that meets the needs of professionals operating in high-pressure environments. From tactical vests to magazine pouches and belts, the company's products are tested to handle the demands of challenging missions. Its tactical gear has been adopted by law enforcement, military personnel, and enthusiasts. With the addition of the Malinois and Husky vests, Shield Concept continues to expand its product line to provide comprehensive solutions for tactical needs. These products are designed to address real-world operational demands, ensuring users have the tools to perform effectively. Continued Commitment to Innovation Shield Concept plans to expand its product line further as part of its ongoing commitment to addressing the evolving needs of its client base. New products will include designs that incorporate durable materials and practical features, aiming to set new benchmarks in the tactical gear industry. "Our team is dedicated to developing gear that aligns with the specific needs of our customers," said Jacob Aka, the spokesperson for Shield Concept. "The launch of the Malinois and Husky vests is part of a broader commitment to delivering dependable and functional equipment. We are excited to introduce more products in the near future that reflect our commitment to quality and innovation." Both the Malinois Lightweight Modular Plate Carrier Vest and the Husky Low Profile Plate Carrier Vest are now available on Shield Concept's website. Interested parties can also explore the company's range of tactical products, including mag pouches, plate carriers, and belts. To learn more, visit https://shieldconcept.com or follow them on Facebook. About Shield Concept Shield Concept is a tactical gear company focused on delivering innovative, high-performance equipment for law enforcement, military personnel, and tactical enthusiasts. The company's product lineup includes plate carriers, magazine pouches, and tactical belts, all crafted from durable materials to meet the needs of demanding environments. Shield Concept prioritizes reliability, functionality, and user safety, with every product rigorously tested to ensure consistent performance. With a commitment to excellence and a forward-looking approach, Shield Concept continues to develop solutions that address the evolving needs of its customers. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235423 SOURCE: Brand Featured SANTA CLARA (dpa-AFX) - Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER) and AI chipmaker Nvidia Corp. (NVDA) announced Tuesday that they are collaborating on new solutions to support the development of AI-powered autonomous driving technology.The companies will share additional details later this year.With vast and rich source of data for Uber's millions of trips every day, the companies will look to pair with the NVIDIA Cosmos platform and NVIDIA DGX Cloud to help AV partners build stronger AI models even more efficiently.NVIDIA Cosmos is a new platform of state-of-the-art generative world foundation models, tokenizers, and accelerated data processing and model customization pipelines. It is purpose-built for developing physical AI systems like robots and autonomous vehicles.The companies noted that Cosmos eliminates cost and resource barriers, helping democratize access to tools for developing physical AI.NVIDIA DGX Cloud is a high-performance, fully managed AI platform preconfigured with the latest NVIDIA architecture and software.Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, said, 'Generative AI will power the future of mobility, requiring both rich data and very powerful compute. By working with NVIDIA, we are confident that we can help supercharge the timeline for safe and scalable autonomous driving solutions for the industry.'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. Julius Baer Group Ltd. / Key word(s): Miscellaneous/Strategic Company Decision Julius Baer to sell its domestic Brazilian business to BTG Pactual 07.01.2025 / 07:00 CET/CEST Zurich/Sao Paulo, 7 January 2025 - Julius Baer Group today announces the signing of an agreement to sell its domestic Brazilian wealth management business, Julius Baer Brasil Gestao de Patrimonio e Consultoria de Valores Mobiliarios Ltda. (Julius Baer Brazil), to Banco BTG Pactual S.A. (BTG). Julius Baer will continue to service Brazilian clients out of other locations and as such, the Brazil International business remains unaffected. In Region Americas & Iberia, Julius Baer has presences in Mexico, Chile, Uruguay, Colombia, and Spain. Julius Baer Brazil, with offices in Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, and Rio de Janeiro, is a leading independent wealth manager in Brazil with a high-calibre client base, focused on high and ultra-high-net-worth segments, and seasoned relationship managers and investment professionals. As of 30 November 2024, it had assets under management of BRL 61 billion (CHF 9 billion). The transaction is expected to be approximately 30 bps accretive to Julius Baer's CET1 capital ratio at close, based on a total cash consideration of BRL 615 million (CHF 91 million). Closing of the transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and expected in the first quarter of 2025. Carlos Recoder, Head Americas & Iberia, Julius Baer, said: "Following a thorough review of our domestic business in Brazil over the past 12 months, it was concluded that for the benefit of our clients it is important to preserve the multi-family office approach, while further enhancing investment capabilities and upgrading technology. The acquisition of our domestic Brazilian franchise by BTG, a leading domestic financial institution, makes this possible and allows to deliver a compelling and differentiated value proposition for our clients and employees." Contacts Media Relations, tel. +41 (0) 58 888 8888 Investor Relations, tel. +41 (0) 58 888 5256 About Julius Baer Julius Baer is the leading Swiss wealth management group and a premium brand in this global sector, with a focus on servicing and advising sophisticated private clients. In all we do, we are inspired by our purpose: creating value beyond wealth. At the end of June 2024, assets under management amounted to CHF 474 billion. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd., the renowned Swiss private bank with origins dating back to 1890, is the principal operating company of Julius Baer Group Ltd., whose shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ticker symbol: BAER) and are included in the Swiss Leader Index (SLI), comprising the 30 largest and most liquid Swiss stocks. Julius Baer is present in around 25 countries and 60 locations. Headquartered in Zurich, we have offices in key locations including Bangkok, Dubai, Dublin, Frankfurt, Geneva, Hong Kong, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Mexico City, Milan, Monaco, Mumbai, Santiago de Chile, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, Tel Aviv, and Tokyo. Our client-centric approach, our objective advice based on the Julius Baer open product platform, our solid financial base, and our entrepreneurial management culture make us the international reference in wealth management. For more information visit our website at www.juliusbaer.com BTG Pactual BTG Pactual is the largest investment bank in Latin America and operates in Investment Banking, Corporate Lending and Business Banking, Sales & Trading, Wealth Management & Personal Banking, and Asset Management. Since its creation in 1983, BTG Pactual has fostered a culture of partnership, with a focus on its clients, excellence, and a long-term vision. BTG Pactual currently employs over 7,000 people in offices in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Mexico, the United States, Portugal, Spain, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom. As of the end of September 2024, BTG Pactual managed more than USD 335 billion in client assets worldwide, with a net worth of USD 10.3 billion, total assets of USD 112 billion, and a market value of USD 23 billion. End of Media Release Progress on share buyback programme ING announced today that, as part of our 2.0 billion share buyback programme announced on 31 October 2024, in total 3,603,185 shares were repurchased during the week of 30 December 2024 up to and including 3 January 2025. The shares were repurchased at an average price of 15.10 or a total amount of 54,411,876.12. For detailed information on the daily repurchased shares, individual share purchase transactions and weekly reports, see the ING website at www.ing.com/investorrelations. In line with the purpose of the programme to reduce the share capital of ING, the total number of shares repurchased under this programme to date is 52,033,958 ordinary shares at an average price of 14.98 for a total consideration of 779,208,205.28. To date approximately 38.96% of the maximum total value of the share buyback programme has been completed. Note for editors For more on ING, please visit www.ing.com. Frequent news updates can be found in the Newsroomor via X @ING_newsfeed. Photos of ING operations, buildings and its executives are available for download at Flickr. Press enquiries Investor enquiries Christoph Linke ING Group Investor Relations +31 20 576 5000 +31 20 576 6396 Christoph.Linke@ing.com (mailto:Christoph.Linke@ing.com) Investor.Relations@ing.com (mailto:Investor.Relations@ing.com) ING PROFILE ING is a global financial institution with a strong European base, offering banking services through its operating company ING Bank. The purpose of ING Bank is: empowering people to stay a step ahead in life and in business. ING Bank's more than 60,000 employees offer retail and wholesale banking services to customers in over 40 countries. ING Group shares are listed on the exchanges of Amsterdam (INGA NA, INGA.AS), Brussels and on the New York Stock Exchange (ADRs: ING US, ING.N). ING aims to put sustainability at the heart of what we do. Our policies and actions are assessed by independent research and ratings providers, which give updates on them annually. ING's ESG rating by MSCI was reconfirmed by MSCI as 'AA' in August 2024 for the fifth year. As of December 2023, in Sustainalytics' view, ING's management of ESG material risk is 'Strong'. Our current ESG Risk Rating, is 17.2 (Low Risk). ING Group shares are also included in major sustainability and ESG index products of leading providers. Here are some examples: Euronext, STOXX, Morningstar and FTSE Russell. Society is transitioning to a low-carbon economy. So are our clients, and so is ING. We finance a lot of sustainable activities, but we still finance more that's not. Follow our progress on ing.com/climate. Important legal information Elements of this press release contain or may contain information about ING Groep N.V. and/ or ING Bank N.V. within the meaning of Article 7(1) to (4) of EU Regulation No 596/2014 ('Market Abuse Regulation'). ING Group's annual accounts are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union ('IFRS- EU'). In preparing the financial information in this document, except as described otherwise, the same accounting principles are applied as in the 2023 ING Group consolidated annual accounts. All figures in this document are unaudited. Small differences are possible in the tables due to rounding. Certain of the statements contained herein are not historical facts, including, without limitation, certain statements made of future expectations and other forward-looking statements that are based on management's current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to di?er materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results, performance or events may di?er materially from those in such statements due to a number of factors, including, without limitation: This document may contain ESG-related material that has been prepared by ING on the basis of publicly available information, internally developed data and other third-party sources believed to be reliable. ING has not sought to independently verify information obtained from public and third-party sources and makes no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, reasonableness or reliability of such information. Materiality, as used in the context of ESG, is distinct from, and should not be confused with, such term as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or as defined for Securities and Exchange Commission ('SEC') reporting purposes. Any issues identified as material for purposes of ESG in this document are therefore not necessarily material as defined in the Market Abuse Regulation or for SEC reporting purposes. In addition, there is currently no single, globally recognized set of accepted definitions in assessing whether activities are "green" or "sustainable." Without limiting any of the statements contained herein, we make no representation or warranty as to whether any of our securities constitutes a green or sustainable security or conforms to present or future investor expectations or objectives for green or sustainable investing. For information on characteristics of a security, use of proceeds, a description of applicable project(s) and/or any other relevant information, please reference the offering documents for such security. This document may contain inactive textual addresses to internet websites operated by us and third parties. Reference to such websites is made for information purposes only, and information found at such websites is not incorporated by reference into this document. 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Attachment Tinh Ca Mau, Vietnam--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau has announced a strategic evolution in its digital presence by transitioning its website, intranngochycm.com, to focus on reviewing gaming brands in Vietnam. This innovative direction reflects an effort to adapt to emerging trends and integrate creative elements inspired by digital platforms into its operations. Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8846/235639_d7786886a44c7b09_001full.jpg The decision to pivot the website's focus is rooted in the company's aim to enhance its creative approach to printing services. By drawing inspiration from the vibrant design and color schemes of card games, the company is exploring new ways to incorporate modern aesthetics into traditional print production. This initiative aligns with the ongoing evolution of the printing industry, where blending digital trends with conventional methods can foster more dynamic and impactful designs. The gaming industry in Vietnam has seen rapid growth, creating an opportunity for companies across various sectors to draw insights from its advancements. By engaging with this sector through its website, Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau positions itself to better understand contemporary design trends. These trends can influence product offerings, from advertising materials and catalogs to packaging and other high-quality printed products. This transition underscores a broader commitment to innovation and adaptability. The company has a long-standing reputation for integrating modern technology into its printing processes. Investments in synchronized, high-capacity equipment for pre-press, printing, and post-press stages have placed its technological capabilities on par with regional competitors. The new website focus complements this approach by fostering creativity and exploring novel design inspirations that can be translated into printed materials. Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau has consistently demonstrated its ability to evolve with the times. Since its establishment, the company has expanded its production capacity, attracted a growing customer base, and diversified its product range. Printed materials such as books, newspapers, magazines, calendars, product labels, and advertising leaflets have consistently met market demands for quality and variety. The recent strategic shift signals an intention to build upon this legacy by embracing digital transformation as a means to enhance traditional craftsmanship. The company's approach highlights the importance of aligning with emerging trends while maintaining a strong focus on core services. The integration of digital elements into the creative process aims to meet the evolving expectations of clients and ensure relevance in an increasingly competitive industry. Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau views this initiative as a step toward achieving a balance between technological advancement and traditional expertise. Tran Ngoc Hy Printing Service Joint Stock Company Ca Mau remains committed to its mission of delivering high-quality printed products while exploring new opportunities to innovate and expand its scope of services. The website transition marks a significant milestone in the company's journey, reflecting a dedication to leveraging new trends for continued growth and improvement. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/235639 SOURCE: Media Feature MADRID, Jan. 07, 2025has been appointed as head of sales strategy and solutions globally to support the growing demand for premium, omnichannel video experiences internationally. Furthermore, Lima will oversee all agency and client partnerships as head of client partnerships - Spain. Within the European and Spanish markets, VDX.tv has partnered with clients like L'Oreal Luxe Spain , Renault Group and more on award-winning campaigns. VDX.tv's campaign for Lancome was selected a winner of The Wires Global 2023 in the category of "Best Use of CTV Technology". VDX.tv's campaign for Renault Group won in the same category during The Wires Global 2024. VDX.tv provides interactive and targeted video advertising solutions to agency and brand clients for omnichannel campaigns spanning premium online video (OLV), mobile, connected TV (CTV), over-the-top (OTT) and digital out-of-home (DOOH) inventory. With an 18+ year career in the digital marketing and advertising industry, Lima brings a wealth of experience to the position and has proven her ability to adapt and advance across sales, product and supply roles. Lima's career in the digital advertising industry began in 2006, when she joined Advertising.com/AOL as media account manager and marketing manager. In 2010, she joined Exponential (now VDX.tv) as media director - Spain and Italy. During that time, Lima played a key role in the launch of the company's Madrid office. Lima most recently held the role of Head of Supply Strategy Global at VDX.tv. Over the past two years, Lima's focus at VDX.tv has been on developing innovative products and solutions, including DOOH and programmatic selling. She has also played an instrumental role in shaping the company's sales strategy for the client partnership team across all regions globally. In her new role, Lima will continue to foster strong relationships with global brands and help curate premium brand experiences that drive the most omnichannel impact for clients. Her role will include developing and positioning new products and solutions, crafting effective go-to-market, sales and marketing strategies for clients and agencies across the US, Canada, EMEA and APAC, and identifying client needs to inform the development of new solutions and products. She will also lead the sales team in Spain and ensure that VDX.tv delivers the best solutions for clients and agencies in the region. Lima said, "Transitioning from supply to client partnerships is an exciting step in my career. I'm eager to continue contributing to the growth of VDX.tv and the global digital industry by developing effective sales strategies and creating innovative solutions for our clients and agencies worldwide." To learn more visit https://www.vdx.tv/ . About VDX.tv VDX.tv is a global video advertising technology company that helps brands magnify the magic of their TV ads by connecting the TV with household members' personal devices and allowing consumers to interact with their TV ads on those devices. The company's solutions are specifically designed to address each industry vertical's unique challenges, helping magnify a brand in the minds of their most valuable prospects, deepening the connection through attention, relevancy, interactivity and frequency. As a certi?ed minority business enterprise, VDX.tv appreciates that diverse perspectives generate the most creative and effective solutions for connecting with diverse audiences. VDX.tv is a division of Exponential Interactive, Inc. Learn more at www.vdx.tv Media Contact Lacy Talton lacy@evergreenandoak.com 252.467.5220 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/97aac416-26a0-470d-a319-5430d0a9f460 Banco Santander, S.A. ("Santander") announced today the launch of four concurrent and separate offers to purchase for cash (the "Offers") its outstanding 3.496% Senior Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025, 2.746% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025, 5.147% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025 and 1.849% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2026 (collectively, the "Notes"), upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the offer to purchase dated January 7, 2025 (the "Offer to Purchase") and the related notice of guaranteed delivery (the "Notice of Guaranteed Delivery" and, together with the Offer to Purchase, the "Offer Documents"). The following table sets forth the Notes subject to the Offers and the key economic terms of the Offers: Acceptance Priority Level Description of the Notes CUSIP/ISIN Principal Amount Outstanding Maturity Date Reference U.S. Treasury Security Bloomberg Reference Page Fixed Spread (Basis Points) 1 3.496% Senior Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025 05964HAP0/ US05964HAP01 $1,250,000,000 March 24, 2025 3.875% due March 31, 2025 FIT3 10 2 2.746% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025 05971KAE9/ US05971KAE91 $1,500,000,000 May 28, 2025 4.250% due May 31, 2025 FIT3 15 3 5.147% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2025 05964HAR6/ US05964HAR66 $1,750,000,000 August 18, 2025 3.125% due August 15, 2025 FIT3 20 4 1.849% Senior Non Preferred Fixed Rate Notes due 2026 05964HAL9/ US05964HAL96 $1,500,000,000 March 25, 2026 4.500% due March 31, 2026 FIT4 30 The Offers will commence on January 7, 2025 and will expire at 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on January 14, 2025 (the "Expiration Time") unless they are extended or terminated by Santander. Each Offer is independent of the other Offers, and Santander may terminate or modify any Offer without terminating or modifying any other Offer. The expected guaranteed delivery date is 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on January 16, 2025. The deadlines set by any intermediary may be earlier than the above deadline. The Consideration payable for each series of Notes will be calculated on the price determination date, which is expected to be 10:00 a.m. (New York City time) on January 14, 2025 (the "Price Determination Date"). The applicable Consideration payable for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes of a given series that are validly tendered and accepted pursuant to the Offers (the "Consideration") will be determined in accordance with standard market practice, as described in the Offer to Purchase using the applicable yield to maturity for such series as the discount rate, which will be equal to the sum of (i) the yield, as calculated by the Dealer Manager, that equates to the bid-side price of the reference U.S. Treasury security specified in the table above for such series of Notes on the Price Determination Date, plus (ii) the applicable fixed spread specified in the table above for such series of Notes. In addition to the Consideration, the Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase and payment pursuant to the Offers will be entitled to accrued and unpaid interest up to, but not including, the settlement date, which is expected to be on or around January 17, 2025 (the "Accrued Interest"). Santander offers to purchase for cash the Notes in an aggregate principal amount for which the aggregate Consideration, excluding Accrued Interest, does not exceed $2,000,000,000 (the "Maximum Purchase Consideration"), subject to the Maximum Purchase Consideration being sufficient to pay the Consideration, excluding Accrued Interest, for all validly tendered Notes of such series (after accounting for all validly tendered Notes that have a higher Acceptance Priority Level) (the "Maximum Purchase Consideration Condition"). If the Maximum Purchase Consideration Condition is not satisfied with respect to each series of Notes, Santander will accept Notes for purchase in the order of their respective acceptance priority level specified in the table above (each level, an "Acceptance Priority Level," with 1 being the highest Acceptance Priority Level and 4 being the lowest Acceptance Priority Level). A series of Notes with a particular Acceptance Priority Level may not be accepted for purchase even if one or more series with a higher or lower Acceptance Priority Level are accepted for purchase. Santander reserves the right, but is under no obligation, to waive the Maximum Purchase Consideration Condition with respect to one or more Offers and accept all Notes of the series sought in such Offer, and of any series of Notes sought in Offers with a higher Acceptance Priority Level, validly tendered and not validly withdrawn or skip any Offer for Notes that would have caused the Maximum Purchase Consideration to be exceeded and purchase all Notes of the next sequential series with a lower Acceptance Priority Level that Santander is able to accept without exceeding the Maximum Purchase Consideration. Santander US Capital Markets LLC is acting as Dealer Manager for the Offers, and D.F. King Co., Inc. is acting as Information and Tender Agent. For detailed terms of the Offers, please refer to the Offer to Purchase which, subject to offer and distribution restrictions, can be obtained from the Dealer Manager and the Information and Tender Agent. Questions regarding the Offers may be directed to the Dealer Manager and the Information and Tender Agent at the contact details set forth below: Santander US Capital Markets LLC D.F. King Co., Inc. 437 Madison Avenue, 10th Floor 48 Wall Street, 22nd Floor New York, NY 10022 New York, New York 10005 United States Toll-Free: +1 (877) 783-5524 Tel (U.S. Toll Free): +1 (855) 404-3636 Banks and Brokers Only: +1 (212) 269-5550 Tel (U.S. collect): +1 (212) 350-0660 Attention: Michael Horthman Attn: Liability Management Team Email: SAN@dfking.com Email: AmericasLM@santander.us Website: https://clients.dfkingltd.com/santander About Santander Banco Santander (SAN SM) is a leading commercial bank, founded in 1857 and headquartered in Spain and one of the largest banks in the world by market capitalization. The group's activities are consolidated into five global businesses: Retail Commercial Banking, Digital Consumer Bank, Corporate Investment Banking (CIB), Wealth Management Insurance and Payments (PagoNxt and Cards). This operating model allows the bank to better leverage its unique combination of global scale and local leadership. Santander aims to be the best open financial services platform providing services to individuals, SMEs, corporates, financial institutions and governments. The bank's purpose is to help people and businesses prosper in a simple, personal and fair way. Santander is building a more responsible bank and has made a number of commitments to support this objective, including raising 220 billion in green financing between 2019 and 2030. At the end of the third quarter of 2024, Banco Santander had 1.3 trillion in total funds, 171 million customers, 8,100 branches and 208,000 employees. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Such statements can be understood through words and expressions like "will," "expect," "project," "anticipate," "should," "intend," "probability," "risk," "target," "goal," "objective," "estimate," "future," "commitment," "commit," "focus," "pledge" and similar expressions. They include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the conduct and completion of the Offers. However, risks, uncertainties and other important factors may lead to developments and results that differ materially from those anticipated, expected, projected or assumed in forward-looking statements, including those discussed in the Offer to Purchase under the heading "Risk Factors" and under similar headings in other documents that are incorporated by reference into the Offer to Purchase. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release, and Santander undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, regardless of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO OR TO ANY PERSON LOCATED OR RESIDENT IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE OR TO WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL TO RELEASE, PUBLISH OR DISTRIBUTE THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. Offer and Distribution Restrictions This press release is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. The Offers are being made only by, and pursuant to the terms of, the Offer Documents. The Offers are not being made in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction. In any jurisdiction where the laws require the Offers to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Offers will be made by the Dealer Manager on behalf of Santander. None of Santander, the Dealer Manager or the Information and Tender Agent or any of their respective directors, employees, officers, agents or affiliates expresses any opinion about the merits of the Offers or makes any recommendation as to whether or not any qualifying holder should offer to sell its Notes, and no one has been authorized by Santander, the Dealer Manager or the Information and Tender Agent to make any such recommendation. United Kingdom The communication of the Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offers are not being made and such documents and/or materials have not been approved by an authorised person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the "FSMA"). The Offer to Purchase and any other documents or materials relating to the Offers are for distribution to and directed only at: (i) persons outside the United Kingdom; (ii) persons who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within the definition of "investment professionals" in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended from time to time, the "Financial Promotion Order"); (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom such documents and materials may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Financial Promotion Order; (iv) members, creditors and other persons falling within Article 43(2) of the Financial Promotion Order; and (v) any other person to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the Offers may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons in (i) through (v) together being referred to as "Relevant Persons"). Any investment or investment activity to which the Offer to Purchase relates is available only to, and will be engaged in only with, Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person should not act or rely on the Offer to Purchase or any of its contents. Spain Neither the Offers nor the Offer to Purchase constitute an offer of securities or the solicitation of an offer of securities in Spain which require the approval and the publication of a prospectus under Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1129, Spanish Law 6/2023, of 17 March, on the Securities Markets and the Investment Services (Ley 6/2023, de 17 de marzo, de los Mercados de Valores y de los Servicios de Inversion), as amended from time to time, and its ancillary and related regulations. Accordingly, the Offer to Purchase has not been and will not be submitted for approval nor approved by the CNMV. France The Offer to Purchase and any documents or offering materials relating to the Offers may not be distributed in the Republic of France except to qualified investors (investisseurs qualifies) as defined in Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1129, as amended, and Article L.411-2 of the French Code(monetaire et financier) as amended from time to time. The Offer to Purchase has not been and will not be submitted for clearance to nor approved by the Autorite des marches financiers Republic of Italy None of the Offers, the Offer to Purchase or any other documents or materials relating to the Offers has been or will be submitted to the clearance procedures of the Commissione Nazionale per le Societa e la Borsa ("CONSOB") pursuant to Italian laws and regulations. The Offers are being carried out in the Republic of Italy ("Italy") as exempted offers pursuant to article 101-bis, paragraph 3-bis of Legislative Decree No. 58 of 24 February 1998 (as amended from time to time, the "Financial Services Act") and Article 35-bis, paragraph 4 of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of 14 May 1999, as amended. Holders or beneficial owners of the Notes that are located in Italy may tender their Notes in the Offers through authorised persons (such as investment firms, banks or financial intermediaries permitted to conduct such activities in Italy in accordance with the Financial Services Act, CONSOB Regulation No. 20307 of 15 February 2018, as amended from time to time, and Legislative Decree No. 385 of 1 September 1993, as amended) and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations or with requirements imposed by CONSOB or any other Italian authority. Each intermediary must comply with the applicable laws and regulations concerning information duties vis-a-vis its clients in connection with the Notes and/or the Offers. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250106702119/en/ Contacts: Investor Contact Gema Navamuel Director, Investor Relations investor@gruposantander.com SINGAPORE, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BIPO, a leading global HR technology and services provider, has been recognised as a Major Contender in the Everest Group Multi-Country Payroll (MCP) Solutions PEAK Matrix Assessment 2024. This marks the third consecutive year BIPO has secured this prestigious acknowledgement, reinforcing its commitment to payroll technology and service excellence. Headquartered in Singapore and backed by four R&D centres across Asia, BIPO stands as a trusted partner for organisations navigating the complexities of the diverse and fast-evolving Asia Pacific region. With an in-depth understanding of APAC's regulatory landscapes and cultural nuances, BIPO delivers tailored HR and payroll solutions that empower businesses to stay agile and competitive. Its flagship HR Management System seamlessly integrates HR and payroll functions, providing insights that enhance workforce productivity and ensure seamless compliance. Priyanka Mitra, Vice President at Everest Group, commented on BIPO's performance: "BIPO's commitment to offering an integrated and comprehensive HR ecosystem, along with its focus on expanding its geographic footprint, has reinforced its position as a major contender in the Multi-Country Payroll (MCP) Solutions PEAK Matrix Assessment 2024. Its emphasis on enhancing stakeholder experience, demonstrated through ongoing investments in building a stronger sales partner network, onboarding strategic partners, and exploring opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and automation to enhance product capabilities, positions it well in the payroll market." With the European HR tech market projected to grow to USD 88.38 billion by 2033, businesses are increasingly adopting automation and payroll digitisation to enhance employee experience and engagement. Platforms like BIPO's are pivotal in addressing these global demands, offering scalable, reliable, and compliant solutions that help organisations navigate the challenges of payroll and workforce management across borders. To meet the rising adoption, BIPO has strategically expanded its footprint in Europe, establishing offices in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the UK. These additions bolster its global presence, which spans more than 40 offices worldwide including major regions like Latin America, and position BIPO as a trusted partner for multinational organisations seeking a comprehensive HR and payroll solution. "This recognition from Everest Group validates our vision to become the leading Asia-based global HR tech and service provider," said Michael Chen, CEO of BIPO. "Our expanding global footprint, combined with our deep expertise in Asia-Pacific markets, uniquely positions us to serve multinational organisations that require seamless, compliant HR operations across diverse regions. We are focused on bridging the technological gap across borders, enabling businesses to operate with greater efficiency and insight." BIPO's comprehensive HR solutions now serve businesses in over 160 global markets, delivering essential services such as Human Capital Management solutions, Global Payroll Outsourcing, and Employer of Record services through its award-winning HR Management System. Learn more at www.biposervice.com or follow BIPO on LinkedIn. About BIPO Established in 2010 and headquartered in Singapore, BIPO is a trusted provider of payroll and people solutions in over 160 global markets. Our comprehensive HR offerings include Human Capital Management solutions, Global Payroll Outsourcing, and Employer of Record services, powered by our award-winning HR Management System and Athena BI (Business Intelligence) platform. At BIPO, we deliver customised services and scalable tech-enabled solutions that automate processes, simplify workflows, and generate actionable insights. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592288/High_Res_PEAK_Matrix_2024___Multi_country_Payroll__MCP__Solutions___APAC___BIPO.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592289/Multi_Country_Payroll_Solutions___APAC_2024___PEAK_Matrix_Award___Major_Contender.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592287/BIPO_vertical_full_color_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bipo-strengthens-global-hr-tech-leadership-with-third-recognition-in-everest-groups-peak-matrix-assessment-302344113.html CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The Japanese yen weakened against other major currencies in the Asian session on Tuesday.The yen fell to nearly a 6-month low of 158.42 against the U.S. dollar, from yesterday's closing value of 157.60.Against the euro, the pound and the Swiss franc, the yen slid to 8-day lows of 164.40, 198.26 and 174.91 from yesterday's closing quotes of 163.76, 197.30 and 174.21, respectively.Against Australia, the New Zealand and the Canadian dollars, the yen slipped to near 1-1/2-month lows of 99.03, 89.56 and 110.47 from Monday's closing quotes of 98.40, 88.92 and 109.97, respectively.If the yen extends its downtrend, it is likely to find support around 159.00 against the greenback, 166.00 against the euro, 200.00 against the pound, 178.00 against the franc, 102.00 against the aussie, 91.00 against the kiwi and 111.00 against the loonie.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. GUANGZHOU, China, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The first phase of the 55th edition of the China International Furniture Fair (Guangzhou) (CIFF Guangzhou 2025), featuring Home Furniture, is set to take place from March 18 to 21, 2025, at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou. This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, designers, and consumers to explore the latest trends and innovations in the furniture sector. The exhibition will feature distinct sections, each showcasing various facets of the home furniture industry. Highlights include design and upholstery, dining and living rooms, home accessories, textiles, and outdoor furniture. A Suite Furniture section will also be included, offering opportunities for companies targeting domestic growth, export, and cross-border e-commerce specialists. The fair will spotlight design as a pivotal force in the industry, showcasing exhibitions focused on contemporary aesthetics and soft furnishings. It will also feature discussions on Chinese home design, trends, craftsmanship, materials, and the role of AI in furniture design. This theme will permeate the event, encouraging participants to explore the future of sustainable design practices. The living room section will spotlight the sofa as the centerpiece, occupying a vast 90,000 square meters. This area will particularly address the needs of younger consumers, exploring how sofas can create emotional connections with users, incorporate smart innovations, and be pet-friendly. These discussions aim to redefine the role of the sofa in modern living spaces, making it more than just a piece of furniture but a central element of home life. The bedroom section will emphasize sleep, dedicating 40,000 square meters to this vital aspect of life. Beyond traditional categories, it will feature new segments like smart sleep solutions, sleep ecosystems, and community care solutions for the elderly. These innovations highlight the increasing consumer interest in improving sleep quality and well-being through thoughtful bedroom design. Additionally, the international pavilion will cater to both international and domestic markets. It will showcase global furniture brands and international exhibitors, creating a precise and efficient procurement platform for global buyers. This section aims to foster cross-cultural exchange and present diverse lifestyle scenarios, highlighting the interconnectedness of the global furniture market. As March approaches, CIFF Guangzhou 2025 is ready to welcome global participants. The event promises to be a dynamic event, offering a comprehensive view of the current and future landscape of the furniture industry. Visit https://www.ciff-gz.com/en/ for more information. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2590163/Weixin_Image_20250103214205.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ciff-guangzhou-2025-preview-a-focus-on-creative-design-and-trade-upgrades-302343615.html NOIDA, India and PUNE, India and LONDON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Birlasoft Ltd (BSE: 532400) (NSE: BSOFT), part of the USD 3 billion diversified C.K. Birla Group, has been officially recognised as a supplier on the UK Government's G-Cloud 14 Procurement Framework. This achievement reinforces Birlasoft's commitment to advancing digital transformation and innovation within the public sector. As an approved supplier under Lot 3 Cloud Support, Birlasoft will offer a wide range of cloud support and testing services tailored to meet the unique needs of public sector organisations. These services encompass our cloud migration, modernisation frameworks, security, assurance services (CloudOps), and financial operations (FinOps). Additionally, Birlasoft's specialised offerings, such as advanced testing solutions including test consulting, automation, and quality engineering, along with enterprise systems and next-generation digital testing, will further bolster its capabilities. Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Manju Kygonahally, CEO - Rest of the World Region, Birlasoft said, "Joining the G-Cloud 14 framework is a significant achievement for Birlasoft as we expand our presence in the public sector and align with the UK Government's vision for digital transformation. At Birlasoft, we recognise the unique challenges that government organisations face on their path to modernisation and innovation. Our selection for the G-Cloud 14 framework gives us the opportunity to provide secure, scalable, and high-quality cloud solutions to help address these challenges. We are looking forward to demonstrating our capabilities to UK public sector organisations." The G-Cloud 14 Procurement Framework, overseen by the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), facilitates access to cloud-based computing services for public sector organisations. The framework simplifies procurement processes, providing a transparent and scalable platform for hosting, software, and support solutions. By including trusted suppliers, it ensures that public sector entities can leverage the latest cloud technology and innovation. Birlasoft's inclusion in the G-Cloud 14 framework aligns with its strategic objective of promoting digital transformation within the public sector. By providing secure and efficient cloud capabilities, Birlasoft aims to improve accessibility, streamline operations, and support the modernization of government services. About Birlasoft Birlasoft, a global leader at the forefront of Cloud, AI, and Digital technologies, seamlessly blends domain expertise with enterprise solutions. The company's consultative and design-thinking approach empowers societies worldwide, enhancing the efficiency and productivity of businesses. Under the visionary leadership of Chairman Mrs. Amita Birla, Birlasoft, comprising over 12,500 professionals, is committed to driving digital transformation. With superior experience in chosen verticals, the company delivers cutting-edge technology solutions, shaping sustainable communities. Explore the innovation at www.birlasoft.com. Connect with Birlasoft: Read our News and Blogs Follow us on X, LinkedIn and YouTube Disclaimer: For complete list of disclaimers click here Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2320507/4499088/Birlasoft_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/birlasoft-joins-uk-governments-g-cloud-14-framework-to-drive-public-sector-digital-transformation-302344161.html WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - President Joe Biden has issued two Presidential Memoranda barring offshore drilling for oil and natural gas in future from 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.The withdrawals have no expiration date, and prohibit all future oil and natural gas leasing in the areas withdrawn. President Biden first used this authority in January of 2021 when he restored protections for part of the Northern Bering Sea, and again in March 2023 to withdraw 2.8 million acres of the Beaufort Sea from future oil and gas leasing, which completed protections for the entire U.S. Arctic Ocean.With this, Biden has taken action to protect the entire U.S. East coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, and additional portions of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska from future oil and natural gas leasing, covering more than 625 million acres of the U.S. ocean.The outgoing President has determined that the environmental and economic risks and harms that would result from drilling in these areas outweigh their limited fossil fuel resource potential, according to the White House.Nearly 400 municipalities and more than 2,300 elected local, state, Tribal, and federal officials across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts have formally opposed the expansion of offshore drilling in these areas in view of its severe environmental, health, and economic threats.Nearly every Governor along the East and West Coasts - Republicans and Democrats alike - has expressed concerns about expanded oil and gas drilling off their coastlines. In Alaska, the new Northern Bering Sea protections are consistent with a long-standing request from more than 70 coastal Tribes based on the need to help sustain a vital and threatened ocean area.There are currently no active oil and natural gas leases in Federal waters off the eastern Atlantic coast. But when a time-limited withdrawal issued by the previous administration expire in 2032, it would open 334 million acres of the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from Canada to the southern tip of Florida, and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico to oil and gas drilling.The Alaskan Congressional delegation had opposed previous proposals to allow oil and gas leasing and drilling in the remaining portion of the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area in Alaska.In a statement after issuing the Presidential Memoranda, Biden said, '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 to the health and resilience of our coasts and fisheries and underscores the importance of the legal protections I am putting in place today.'Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX BERLIN, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For years, the idea that "AI will replace radiologists" has been largely speculative. Today, a groundbreaking study provides the first real-world evidence of artificial intelligence's potential to transform breast cancer screening. The PRAIM (PRospective multicenter observational study of an integrated artificial intelligence (AI) system with live Monitoring) Study, conducted by Vara and the University of Lubeck, demonstrates that integrating AI into screening workflows can improve breast cancer detection rates by 17.6%, without increasing false positives. PRAIM stands out as the most ambitious AI radiology project to date, involving 500,000 participants across Germany. As the first nationwide study to deploy AI in Germany's National Screening Program, it far surpasses previous studies that relied on retrospective data or small, controlled lab settings Key findings include: AI integration improves cancer detection rates and significantly reduces radiologists' workloads. Radiologists spent 43% less time interpreting AI-tagged normal examinations. In a simulated scenario where radiologists didn't interpret AI-labeled normal mammograms (56.7% of all scans), cancer detection rate still improved by 16.7%, while reducing recalls by 15%. That this success was achieved in Germany is significant, as the country has often been criticised for lagging behind the US and China in AI innovation - particularly in women's health. Professor Alexander Katalinic, Head of the Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of Lubeck and lead investigator of the study, stated: "The results are extremely positive and have exceeded our expectations. We can now demonstrate that AI significantly improves the cancer detection rate in screening for breast cancer." Stefan Bunk, CTO of Vara, added: "The PRAIM study is a testament to the vast potential of AI in improving breast cancer screening. We are confident that the results will elevate the discussion about AI-assisted mammography screening, paving the way for wider adoption in health systems globally." PRAIM marks a pivotal moment in integrating AI into medical practice, ??clearly demonstrating how strategic use of the technology can transform breast cancer screening programs by improving detection and efficiency. The study sets the stage for major advancements in clinical practice, and highlights the need for political recognition and support to further leverage AI's potential in real-world healthcare settings. About Vara Vara is a healthcare technology company revolutionizing breast cancer screening with AI, founded in 2018 by Jonas Muff, CEO and Stefan Bunk, CTO. Headquartered in Berlin, Germany with offices in India, Vara's AI-powered software enhances accuracy and efficiency in breast cancer detection, identifying 43% more cancers that radiologists might miss while reducing their workload by up to 73%. With multiple publications, including Lancet Digital Health, Vara's approach significantly outperforms average radiologists. Integrated into Germany's National Breast Cancer Screening Program, Vara supports 40% of the country's screening centers, benefiting over 80,000 women monthly. Vara is backed by investors including Merantix, EQT Foundation, IBB and VI Partners. For more information, visit https://vara.ai/ . Media Contact: COMMUNIQUE DE PRESSE Paris, 7 January 2025 La Poste SA announces its intention to issue undated deeply subordinated notes and the launch of a tender offer on its deeply subordinated notes issued in 2018 (ISIN: FR0013331949) La Poste SA (the "Company") announces today its intention to issue undated non-call 6.5 year deeply subordinated fixed rate resettable notes (the "New Notes"). The New Notes are expected to be admitted to trading on the regulated market of Euronext Paris. It is also expected that the rating agencies will assign the New Notes a rating of [BB+]/BBB+ (S&P/Fitch). At the same time, the Company announces the launch of a tender offer (the "Tender Offer") on its 750,000,000 undated deeply subordinated fixed rate resettable notes issued in 2018 (all of which are currently outstanding) (ISIN: FR0013331949) (the "Existing Notes"). The Existing Notes are admitted to trading on the regulated market of Euronext Paris. The Tender Offer is subject to a maximum acceptance amount, which is expected to be equal to the aggregate principal amount of the New Notes (the "Maximum Acceptance Amount"). The Company reserves the right to decrease or increase the Maximum Acceptance Amount and will determine the final aggregate principal amount of the Existing Notes accepted for purchase, in its sole discretion. The announcement of the Maximum Acceptance Amount will be made as soon as reasonably practicable after the pricing of the New Notes. The acceptance of any Existing Notes validly tendered in the Tender Offer is at the sole and absolute discretion of the Company. The Tender Offer and the issuance of the New Notes aim, among other things, to proactively manage the Company's layer of hybrid capital. The Tender Offer begins today, 7 January 2025, and will expire on 14 January 2025 at 5.00 p.m. (CET) subject to extension, withdrawal, reopening, or termination, at the sole and absolute discretion of the Company. The Tender Offer is conditional upon the successful settlement of the New Notes or the waiver of this condition by the Company. The results of the Tender Offer will be announced as soon as practicable on 15 January 2025. The terms and conditions of the Tender Offer are further described in the Tender Offer Memorandum dated 7 January 2025. Disclaimer This announcement does not constitute an invitation to participate in the Tender Offer or the issuance of New Notes in or from any jurisdiction in or from which, or to or from any person to or from whom, it is unlawful to make such invitation under applicable securities laws. The distribution of this announcement in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. No offer to sell or solicitation of an order to sell or subscribe for a security may be made in a country or territory in which such an offer or solicitation would be contrary to the regulations in force or before its registration under securities law in force in such country or territory. Persons into whose possession this announcement comes are required to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions. Tenders of Existing Notes for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer will not be accepted from qualifying holders in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful. The Company does not make any recommendation as to whether or not qualifying holders should participate in the Tender Offer. United States Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under, or an exemption from the registration requirements of, the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The New Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States, and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, any U.S. Person as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act (each a "U.S. Person"). The Tender Offer is not being made and will not be made directly or indirectly in or into, or by use of the mails of, or by any means or instrumentality (including, without limitation, facsimile transmission, telex, telephone, email and other forms of electronic transmission) of interstate or foreign commerce of, or any facility of a national securities exchange of, the United States or to U.S. Persons and the Existing Notes may not be tendered in the Tender Offer by any such use, means, instrumentality or facility from or within the United States, by persons located or resident in the United States of America ("U.S. holders" within the meaning of Rule 800(h) under the Securities Act). Accordingly, any documents or materials related to the Tender Offer are not being, and must not be, directly or indirectly, mailed or otherwise transmitted, distributed or forwarded (including, without limitation, by custodians, nominees or trustees) in or into the United States or to any such person. Any purported tender instruction in response to the Tender Offer resulting directly or indirectly from a violation of these restrictions will be invalid, and tender instructions made by a person located or resident in the United States of America or any agent, fiduciary or other intermediary acting on a non-discretionary basis for a principal giving instructions from within the United States will not be accepted. For the purposes of the above paragraph, United States means the United States of America, its territories and possessions (including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Wake Island and the North Mariana Islands), any state of the United States of America and the District of Columbia. ______________________________ About La Poste Groupe La Poste is a state-owned public limited company, a subsidiary of Caisse des Depots and the French State. La Poste Groupe is divided into four business units: Services-Mail-Parcels, Retail Customers and Digital Services, Geopost and La Banque Postale, which, with its subsidiary CNP Assurances, is the 11th largest bancassurer in the eurozone. La Poste Groupe has four public service missions that shape its identity: universal postal service, regional development, banking accessibility, and press transport and delivery. Committed to its regional coverage, La Poste Groupe relies on its network of local, human and digital services, the largest in France. This network comprises 37,500 contact points, including 17,000 postal contact points (post offices, local postal agencies, retail pickup points) and more than 20,500 points of access to a postal service (pick-up points in retail outlets and lockers, and Espaces Pro areas). La Poste Groupe delivers yearly over 15 billion items worldwide (letters, printed advertising media and parcels), six days a week. In 2023, La Poste Groupe generated 34.1 billion in revenue, of which 44% were generated outside France, and had a headcount of 233,000, in more than 60 countries over 5 continents, of which more than 179,000 in France. As part of its strategic plan "La Poste 2030, committed for you", the public company has set itself the course for profitable and responsible growth in France and abroad, based on a robust multi-business model. As a mission-driven company since 2021 and a leader in environmental transition and sustainable finance, La Poste Groupe is committed to reaching "net zero emissions" by 2040. ______________________________ Financial Communication and Investors' Relations Olivier Gall +33 6 22 25 50 42 olivier.gall@laposte.fr Stephane Dalla Sartora +33 7 87 39 58 80 stephane.dalla-sartora@laposte.fr Annie Dupeyron +33 6 48 00 61 49 annie.dupeyron@laposte.fr Press relations +33 1 55 44 22 37 service.presse@laposte.fr ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: x5ielJZrYWaVx5qbkp5rZpVpl2pilJSZm5acnGRsk5vGm5qUyWhib5udZnFqmWZm - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-89410-la-poste_tender-offer-launch_7012025-en_vdef.pdf JinkoSolar continues to solidify its market leadership position through significant technological advancements, marking its 27th consecutive efficiency record in cell technology. The company has achieved a remarkable breakthrough with its perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells, pushing the efficiency rate to an impressive 33.84 percent, surpassing the previous benchmark of 33.24 percent. This achievement, validated by the Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, leverages advanced N-type TOPCon technology as the bottom cell layer. Despite industry-wide turbulence, the company has demonstrated resilience, experiencing only a moderate decline of approximately ten percent in market performance. Legal Defense of Innovation In a strategic move to protect its technological advantages, JinkoSolar has initiated legal proceedings against a competitor regarding TOPCon solar cell technology. The lawsuit, scheduled for its first hearing at the Nanchang Intermediate People's Court in February 2025, seeks immediate cessation of patent infringements and compensation for economic losses. This legal action underscores the company's commitment to defending its intellectual property rights and maintaining its position as an innovation leader in the photovoltaic industry. Ad Fresh JinkoSolar information released. What's the impact for investors? Our latest independent report examines recent figures and market trends. Read our updated JinkoSolar analysis... LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / January 7, 2025 / MainStreetChamber Holdings, Inc. (OTC PINK:MSCH), a leading global provider of intellectual property and brand licensing solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony (Tony) Anish as the company's new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Tony Anish brings an impressive track record of financial leadership and business development. He previously founded and grew the London-based Anish and Co., Chartered Accountants, before selling his interest to two junior partners to join one of his clients, Performance Tire, Ltd., as CFO. During his tenure, Mr. Anish spearheaded the company's expansion into the U.S., driving sales from $2 million to $28 million in just two years. Subsequently, Mr. Anish acquired Performance Tire's nine automotive retail stores, which he later sold to refocus on his accounting and finance expertise. Over his extensive career, he provided business finance for companies through equipment leasing and asset-based lending from his Orange County, California office. Additionally, Mr. Anish consulted on multiple reverse mergers, facilitated business financing for both private and public companies, and successfully guided private companies through the full registration process to go public. Mr. Anish received his Chartered Accounting degree after articling with Percy Phillips and Co., a prestigious London-based firm. "Tony's exceptional experience in accounting, business finance, and public company leadership makes him an invaluable addition to MainStreet Chamber Holdings," said Larry Kozin, MSCH Founder & CEO. "We are thrilled to have Tony on board to help guide our strategic growth and financial objectives." As part of this leadership transition, Rabbi Jeffrey Rubinstein, who has served as the company's CFO since its inception, will transition to a key role as a Board Member and Secretary of MSCH. "We are deeply grateful for Rabbi Rubinstein's significant contributions and leadership throughout the years and look forward to his continued service on our Board," added Kozin. In addition, John Bellave, who previously held the role of Secretary, will remain on the Board of Directors and continue serving as CEO of Advanced Licensing, a wholly owned subsidiary of MSCH. Advanced Licensing has been instrumental in driving MSCH's innovation and growth in licensing solutions across various industries. This enhanced leadership team underscores MainStreet Chamber Holdings' commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and future expansion. About MainStreetChamber Holdings, Inc. MainStreet Chamber Holdings, Inc. (OTC PINK:MSCH) is a leading global provider of intellectual property and brand licensing solutions. The company develops and markets innovative licensing solutions for organizations of all sizes, from startups to established enterprises. Its diverse portfolio includes Advanced Licensing, kathy ireland Laundry, kathy ireland Furniture Factory, kathy ireland Kids, and the MainStreet Chamber of Commerce. To learn more, visit MSCH.com. Forward-Looking Statements The foregoing information regarding MainStreetChamber Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended. Forward-looking statements include all statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts, including without limitation the Company's outlook for growth and market expansion, and which can be identified by the use of words such as "may," "will," "expect," "project," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "believe," "potential," "should," "continue" or the negative versions of those words or other comparable words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future actions or performance. These forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to the Company and its current plans or expectations and are subject to a number of uncertainties and risks that could significantly affect current plans. Risks concerning the Company's business may be described in more detail in the Company's periodic and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. kathy ireland is a registered trademark of kathy ireland Worldwide. Company Contact: Larry Kozin, CEO MainStreetChamber Holdings, Inc. Tel: +1 (877) 594-7277 info@MSCH.com Media Contact: Rona Menashe Guttman Associates PR & Marketing Tel: +1 (310) 246-4600 Rona@Guttmanpr.com Contact Information Rona Menashe Co-President & Co-CEO, Guttman Associates PR & Marketing rona@guttmanpr.com +1 (310) 246-4600 SOURCE: MainStreetChamber Holdings, Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Dryden Gold Corp. (TSXV: DRY) (OTCQB: DRYGF) ("Dryden Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to reflect on a year of successful exploration, significant capital markets activity and important tactical land acquisitions. The technical team made great strides in identifying and defining the geological structures that control the high-grade gold in the Gold Rock Camp. The Company's geological progress and success led to the announcement that Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG) (NYSE: CGAU) ("Centerra") had acquired a 9.9% strategic equity position. Dryden Gold is now fully funded for an exciting year of exploration in 2025. The Company would like to thank all its shareholders who have made this first year as a public company a success and continue to support our next phase of exploration in 2025. 2024 Highlights Include: Successful capital market campaigns including the strategic investment by Centerra: December 2024- Closed $3.38 Million Non-Brokered Private Placement and Strategic Investment by Centerra Gold (short summary video available here). October 2024- Closed $5.1 Million Private Placement (upsized the offering three times due to unprecedented demand). January 2024- Toronto Venture Exchange listing and $5.1 Million RTO Financing. Executed a robust marketing strategy which included North American and European conferences, webinars, town halls, roadshows, investor dinners. Secured newsletter writer coverage from Chen Lin, Editor of 'What is Chen Buying? What is Chen Selling?'. Near Surface High-Grade Drill Results in the Gold Rock Camp: Elora intercept- 8.93 g/t gold over 12.45 meters including 32.96 g/t gold over 2.73 meters in the deepest drill hole to date at Elora (video summary available here). Elora intercept- 14.10 g/t gold over 7.54 meters (short video summary available here). Elora intercept- 30.72 g/t gold over 5.70 meters (short video summary available here). Big Master intercept- 26.11 g/t gold over 3.16 meters (short video summary available here). Big Master intercept- 3.17 g/t gold over 4.00 meters (short video summary available here). Successfully tested hanging wall and footwall structures in sheared volcanics at Gold Rock. Began a re-logging program with historic core from Gold Rock & Sherridon. Building District Scale Potential - Dryden Gold District: Acquired key strategic property - ' Cross River' Contiguous to the Gold Rock Camp. Staked additional ground - ' Hyndman Property '. Acquired additional strategic land - ' Shear Gold Property ' Contiguous to the Sherridon, Gaffney and Cross River properties. Secured a large core facility near the Gold Rock Camp. Added two geologists and two strategic consultants to the technical team. Made $3.5 million (cash & stock) in property payments to Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE: AGI) ("Alamos"). Final payment of $2 million is due April 2025 to secure 100% ownership. "2024 was a transitional year for Dryden Gold Corp. Starting with our successful public listing in January and ending with Centerra's strategic investment in December, the Company made great strides on all fronts." states Trey Wasser, CEO of Dryden Gold. "I am especially proud of our technical team and their outstanding accomplishments in the interpretation of the structural geology and controls which resulted in identifying several new high-grade structures through the drill bit. We continue to see striking similarities to the Red Lake Camp and we are especially excited about our deeper holes at Elora where intercepts of over an ounce per tonne gold show a strong mineralized system. The district scale potential of our consolidated land package now has the attention of several producing gold companies anxious to expand operations in Canada. With a fully funded exploration budget we expect 2025 to be another pivotal year as we drill deeper and test new targets and continue our property-wide exploration." Details of Centerra Gold Inc.'s Strategic Investment Centerra has acquired approximately 9.9% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company. The Company and Centerra have also entered into an investor rights agreement dated December 17, 2024 (the "IRA"), whereby, subject to certain conditions, including time and ownership thresholds, Centerra will have certain rights, including the right to participate in future equity issuances to maintain its ownership in the Company. A copy of the IRA is available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile on www.sedarplus.com. The Offering consisted of: (i) 11,988,824 charity flow through shares (the "CFT Shares") at a price of $0.24 per CFT Share and (ii) 2,941,176 hard dollar shares (the "HD Shares") at a price of $0.17 per HD Share, for total aggregate proceeds of $3,377,317 Centerra was the end purchaser of all the CFT Shares (following the charitable flow through donations in the Offering) and all the HD Shares. No finder's fees will be paid with respect of the Shares. 2025 and Beyond Dryden Gold has a fully funded $5.8MM exploration budget planned for 2025. This will include: Deeper drilling and strike extension on the Elora structure Testing new targets on Elora at the Laurentian Mine and the D-1 cross structures (permit pending) Testing targets at Mud Lake defined in the 2024 field program (permit pending) Property wide soil testing and LiDAR Additional mapping and testing at Hyndman, Cross River and Sherridon The Company also has over $2MM in hard dollars to cover its final property payment to Alamos and continue its active marketing campaigns. Marketing and Upcoming Conferences Dryden Gold will be participating at the Metals Investor Forum in Vancouver at the Fairmont Pacific Rim on January 17-18, 2025. Maura Kolb, P. Geo., President of Dryden Gold will be giving a corporate presentation on Friday, January 17th at 9:50am PT during newsletter writer, Chen Lin's panel. Dryden Gold will also be participating in the Core Shack at AME Roundup in Vancouver on January 20-21, 2025, from 9am-4pm PT at Booth Number 821 at the Convention Centre East. Management will be available for questions and invites investors to review our upcoming events on our website, linked here. 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. Qualified Person The technical disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Maura J. Kolb, M.Sc., P. Geo., President of Dryden Gold and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. Analytical Laboratory and QA/QC Procedures All sampling completed by Dryden Gold Corp. within its exploration programs is subject to a Company standard of internal quality control and quality assurance (QA/QC) programs which include the insertion of certified reference materials, blank materials, and a level of duplicate analysis. Drill samples from the 2023 program were sent to Activation Laboratories, with sample preparation and analysis in Thunder Bay, where they were processed for gold analysis by 50-gram fire assay with an atomic absorption finish and over limits determined by Fire Assay with a gravimetric finish. Activation Laboratories systems conform to requirements of ISO/IEC Standard 17025 guidelines and meets assay requirements outlined for NI 43-101. ABOUT DRYDEN GOLD CORP. Dryden Gold Corp. is an exploration company focused on the discovery of high-grade gold mineralization listed on the TSX Venture Exchange ("DRY") and on the OTCQB marketplace ("DRYGF"). The Company has a strong management team and Board of Directors comprised of experienced individuals with a track record of building shareholder value through property acquisition and consolidation, exploration success, and mergers and acquisitions. Dryden Gold controls a 100% interest in a dominant strategic land position in the Dryden District of Northwestern Ontario. Dryden Gold's property package includes historic gold mines but has seen limited modern exploration. The property hosts high-grade gold mineralization over 50km of potential strike length along the Manitou-Dinorwic deformation zone. The property has excellent infrastructure, enjoys collaborative relationships with First Nations communities and benefits from proximity to an experienced mining workforce. For more information go to our website www.drydengold.com. CONTACT INFORMATION Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: receipt of corporate and regulatory approvals, issuance of common shares; future development plans; and the business and operations of Dryden Gold. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings including receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval for the offering; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in Dryden Gold's and the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward--looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Dryden Gold and the Company do not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from Dryden Gold's and the Company's expectations or projections. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236249 SOURCE: Dryden Gold Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Nuvau Minerals Inc. (TSXV: NMC) (the "Company" or "Nuvau"), is pleased to provide an update on the Company's ongoing work programs at the Matagami Mining Camp. In 2025, Nuvau will strive to continue building on its previous successes, advancing exploration efforts, and looking to increase resources. Key highlights of the company include: Strong financial position to execute on its 2025 program, including the completion of the earn-in with Glencore on the Matagami property Located in Quebec, the Matagami Mining camp is a historic base metal camp with a 60-year history of production Multiple exploration targets have been identified on this extensive land package, covering over 1,300 km Two significant discoveries by Nuvau: Renaissance Zone and McLeod Extension To date, no focused gold exploration has taken place on the property Valuable and permitted infrastructure in place, including the 3,000 tpd processing plant Current preliminary economic assessment (PEA) indicates a 10-year mine life that includes only the current resources from the Caber Complex. Significant exploration potential to support resource growth. Strong provincial and community support Highlight drill results from Nuvau's 2023-24 drilling campaigns include the McLeod Extension Discovery of 15.9 m at 2.81% Cu, 14.80% Zn, and 0.39g/t Au "After almost three years since founding the company, 2024 was a watershed period for Nuvau," said Peter van Alphen, President and CEO. "After a considerable amount of work by our dedicated team, we were able to complete the qualifying transaction and begin trading on the TSXV on December 17, 2024. This was, in no small part, because of the continued support of our shareholders, both old and new. We also continued to work towards the completion of the earn-in agreement with Glencore, which will see Nuvau as the 100% owner of the Matagami Property in Quebec. Nuvau remains focused on bringing a new start to this historic mining camp through continued exploration initiatives across this 1,300 km2 land package, as well as the ongoing efforts to continue to de-risk the potential restart of production. We are in a strong financial position as we begin 2025, advancing our objectives and looking to grow our team." The Matagami Opportunity The Matagami Mining Camp represents a compelling investment opportunity. Located in the northern Abitibi Greenstone belt in the province of Quebec, the Matagami property is in the heart of a region that boasts a history of significant mineral endowment. The exploration potential of the Matagami property is substantial, with over 1,300 km of highly prospective ground in a region renowned for its base and precious metal deposits. The property lies along the Sunday Lake deformation zone, east of major current and past mining operations such as the Detour Gold Mine, Casa Berardi Mine, and Selbaie Mine. This region is the focus of continued exploration activities by numerous exploration companies. Matagami Mining Camp To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11236/236256_438777926454ba47_001full.jpg Geophysical programs have identified more than 80 priority targets in the northern part of the property alone. The first of these anomalies tested by Nuvau resulted in the discovery of the Renaissance Zone and highlights the potential along this undertested part of the property. Only a small portion of the property has been extensively explored, resulting in significant exploration potential for base metals and there has never been a focused exploration program for gold on the property. Multiple gold anomalies have been identified which may open an opportunity for additional discoveries. In addition to the exploration potential, mineral resources have been identified on the property including three deposits collectively referred to as the Caber Complex. These resources represent a potential mine life of nearly 10 years as determined in the PEA prepared by Nuvau. Nuvau Minerals Holdings To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11236/236256_438777926454ba47_002full.jpg The property is also unique in the region as it includes extensive existing infrastructure including a permitted, 3,000 tonne per day, processing plant, and the permitted past-producing Bracemac McLeod Mine. This infrastructure will significantly reduce initial capital requirements if the Company reaches the point of restarting production. 2024 Update and Achievements Founded in 2022, Nuvau has made significant progress, completing a qualifying transaction to begin trading on the TSXV under the symbol of NMC on December 17, 2024. The qualifying transaction also included concurrent financings raising gross proceeds of approximately $9.2 million, resulting in a strong cash position of approximately $12 million at the end of 2024. The financings included participation from certain Quebec investment funds, further building a strong shareholder base. The work conducted across the property since 2022 has included extensive exploration programs on various specific targets as well as work related to future target generation. Notable achievements from the exploration work programs to date include: The discovery of the Renaissance Zone, located in the West camp, near the Caber Complex. As a result of targeting a geophysical anomaly, the discovery hole was drilled in 2023, intersecting multiple massive and semi-massive sulphide zones with some containing high grade gold values. The discovery hole (PD1-23-01) intersected multiple zones which included 3.10 m at 2.11% Cu, 2.78% Zn, 0.38g/t Au and 15.7m at 0.41% Cu, 1.69% Zn, 0.70g/t Au, and 12.3 m at 0.50% Cu, 1.18% Zn, 1.15g/t Au including 0.7 m at 9.30g/t Au and 1.0m at 3.49g/t Au. Drilling to continue to explore this zone is planned for early 2025. See the table below setting out the results of the Renaissance drill program. The McLeod Extension was also discovered in 2023 at the Brace McLeod Mine. This discovery demonstrates the potential for additional resources at this permitted past-producing property. The discovery hole (MCL-13-31W1) intersected 15.9 m at 2.81% Cu, 14.80% Zn, and 0.39g/t Au. See the table of below setting out the results of the McLeod drill program. In addition to the diamond drilling program, the Company also initiated a sonic drilling program to test portions of the property covered by overburden. This program aims to identify glacial till anomalies as a means of further developing new exploration targets. Results from the program completed in 2024 are pending. A property wide technical report was completed in July 2023 and updated in November 2024. This NI 43-101 compliant technical report includes PEA for the Caber Complex. The Company also took advantage of the benefit Nuvau gains through its access to the infrastructure on the Matagami property and continued work related to the derisking of the potential production restart. This was through early-stage engineering and baseline study work required for the permitting of a new tailing storage facility. In addition, definition drilling was advanced at the Caber Complex for the purpose of mineral resource conversion and to provide samples for metallurgical studies. For details on the Matagami Property and complete drill results, please see the Technical Report available under the company's profile on SEDAR+. 2025 Objectives Nuvau's 2025 plans are focused on advancing exploration to continue growing resources, pursuing new discoveries and further advancing plans for a future production decision. Key milestones for 2025 include: Completion of the earn-in agreement with Glencore Continued exploration drilling at the Renaissance Zone and McLeod Extension A drill program to continue to test geophysical anomalies in the northern part of the property The continuation of the Sonic drilling program in the western part of the property to explore further till anomalies. Additionally, Nuvau is advancing plans to update the PEA with the aim of optimizing the Caber Complex mine plan and incorporating the potential restart of the Bracemac McLeod Mine into the economic analysis. Drilling at the Caber Complex will also focus on converting resources and collecting samples for metallurgical studies in preparation for a feasibility study. About Nuvau Nuvau is a Canadian mining company focused on the Abitibi Region of mine-friendly Quebec. Nuvau's principal asset is the Matagami Property that is host to significant existing processing infrastructure and multiple mineral deposits and is being acquired from Glencore. Table 1 Collar table for the McLeod diamond drilling program Hole ID Azimuth () Dip () Length (m)* *Easting (m) *Northing (m) Elevation (m) Wedge Depth (m) MCL-13-31W1 12.44 -82.78 1401 307938.05 5504882 263.32 681 MCL-13-31W2 12.44 -82.78 1434 307938.05 5504882 263.32 650 MCL-13-31W3 12.44 -82.78 1319.2 307938.05 5504882 263.32 831 MCL-13-31W4 12.44 -82.78 1515 307938.05 5504882 263.32 1287 MCL-13-31W5 12.44 -82.78 1527 307938.05 5504882 263.32 636 *UTM (NAD83 Coordination - Zone 18N). Length is from the drill hole collar and not from the wedge depth. Table 2 Significant intercepts for the McLeod Deposit drilling program Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Cu % Zn % Au (g/t) MCL-13-31W1 1258.8 1274.7 15.9 2.81 14.80 0.39 Incl 1260.1 1273.5 13.4 3.13 17.09 0.43 Incl 1272.85 1273.5 0.65 10.65 11.35 1.295 And 1315.6 1316.6 1.0 0.21 5.1 0.41 MCL-13-31W2 1347.7 1354.75 7.05 4.07 10.25 1.03 Incl 1347.7 1350.75 3.05 5.05 13.81 1.19 Incl 1347.7 1348.55 0.85 1.17 30 0.44 MCL-13-31W3 Abandoned MCL-13-31W4 No significant mineralization MCL-13-31W5* 1404 1406.7 2.7 0.09 2.02 0.06 And 1438.7 1443 4.3 0.08 1.87 0.39 *Partial assay results received as of the Technical Report effective date Table 3 Collar table for the 2023-2024 Renaissance diamond drilling program Hole ID Azimuth () Dip () Length (m) *Easting (m) *Northing (m) Elevation (m) PD1-23-01 35 -60 642 272597.3 5518368 273.38 PD1-23-02 20 -50 534 272589.9 5518358 273.46 REN-23-01 15 -62 465 272592.5 5518351 273.32 REN-23-02 151 -54.4 519 272481.69 5518579.44 272 REN-23-03 151 -71 690 272481.69 5518579.44 272 REN-24-04 332 -54.5 381 272727 5518313 272 REN-24-05 334 -47 384 272770 5518334 272 REN-24-06 334 -56 465 272809 5518354 272 REN-24-07 346 -69 561 272809 5518354 272 REN-24-08 326 -58 603 272862 5518256 272 REN-24-09 357 -67 393 272578 5518337 270 REN-24-10 350 -47 357 272591 5518360 270 REN-24-11 325 -50 708 272591 5518360 270 REN-24-12 355 -47 372 272451 5518166 270 REN-24-13 327 -47 522 272371 5518123 270 REN-24-14 346 -51 576 272862 5518256 272 *UTM (NAD83 Coordination - Zone 18N) Table 4 Significant results for the 2023 to 2024 Renaissance drilling program Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) Cu % Zn % Au (g/t) PD1-23-01 360.3 363.4 3.1 2.11 2.78 0.38 Incl 360.3 360.75 0.45 0.32 0.33 1.75 And 382.3 398.0 15.7 0.41 1.69 0.70 And 386.7 399 12.3 0.50 1.18 1.15 Incl 393.5 394.2 0.7 0.40 0.19 9.3 And 398 399 1.0 0.01 0.08 3.49 PD1-23-02 92.8 122.0 29.2 0.09 1.27 - Incl 113.9 122.0 8.1 0.18 2.24 - REN-23-01 172.7 202.2 29.5 0.35 4.99 - Incl 175.8 189.3 13.5 0.39 8.00 - REN-23-02 141 142.5 1.5 0.6 0.03 1.00 REN-23-03 No significant mineralization REN-24-04 278 290.25 12.25 0.5 4.76 0.16 Incl 278.5 280.5 2 0.07 9.15 0.1 Incl 286.1 287.1 1 2.55 0.34 0.75 Incl 288.25 288.9 0.65 0.58 11.35 0.12 REN-24-05 252.2 271.7 16.5 0.07 1.14 0.02 Incl 255.2 256.2 1 0.10 10.3 0.05 REN-24-06 312 312.8 0.8 0.09 1.55 0.05 And 352.6 353.4 0.8 1.01 0.07 0.08 REN-24-07 490.85 495 4.15 0.05 3.44 0.02 Incl 494.25 495 0.75 0.19 15.09 0.09 REN-24-08 466.6 468.7 2.1 0.02 1.57 0.01 REN-24-09 64 64.5 0.5 1.31 0.06 0.06 And 68.5 69.25 0.75 1.37 0.85 0.03 And 166.7 182 15.3 1.64 0.99 0.06 Incl 166.7 167.3 0.6 0.62 7.71 0.04 Incl 171.8 173.3 1.5 6.51 0.42 0.07 And 208.2 210.2 2 1.26 0.06 0.02 REN-24-10 No significant mineralization REN-24-11 No significant mineralization REN-24-12 No significant mineralization REN-24-13 No significant mineralization REN-24-14 Assays pending For additional details on the drill results, please see the Technical Report available through the following link "NI 43-101 Technical Report Matagami Mining Camp Quebec, Canada - Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Caber Complex Project" dated November 11, 2024, as well as under the Company's profile on SEDAR+. The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources, which are considered too geologically speculative to be categorized as Mineral Reserves with economic considerations. Therefore, there is no certainty that the PEA will be realized. Assays, Quality Assurance/Quality Control and Drilling and Assay Gilles Roy P.Geo. (Qc), a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for the ongoing drilling and sampling program, including quality assurance and quality control. Drilling completed by Nuvau is being logged and sampled by Laurentia Exploration (Laurentia) geologists applying the procedures developed during Xstrata's and Glencore's operation of the Property. Sampling is confined to visibly mineralized intervals with a minimum of 2 m shoulder samples into unmineralized rock. In addition, sampling was performed on veins and altered zones to check for the presence of gold. Drill core samples are sawn by staff technicians to create half core splits. One split is retained in the drill core box for archival purposes with a sample tag affixed at each sample interval and the other split is placed in a labelled plastic bag along with a corresponding sample number tag and placed in the shipment queue. Quality control samples including blind certified reference material ("CRM"), blank material, and core duplicates are inserted at a frequency of 1 in every 20 samples and sample batches of up to 60 samples were then shipped directly by Nuvau personnel to the ALS Canada Ltd. preparation laboratory in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. All submitted core samples are crushed in full to 95 % passing less than 2 mm (ALS code CRU-33). A 1000-gram sample was then riffled split from the crushed material and pulverized to 90 % passing 75 m (SPL-22 and PUL-32a). Pulps are shipped from the preparation laboratory to ALS Canada Ltd.'s analytical lab in North Vancouver, British Columbia, for assay. Lead, silver, copper and zinc analyses were determined by ore grade four acid digestion with an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy ("ICP-AES") or atomic absorption spectroscopy ("AAS") finish (ALS codes Pb-OG62, Ag-OG62, Cu-OG62 and ZnOG62), whereas gold was determined by 30 g fire assay analysis with an AAS finish (code Au-AA23). ALS Canada Ltd. is an accredited, independent commercial analytical firm registered to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015. Qualified Person and Quality Assurance Gilles Roy, P. Geo. (Qc), Director of Exploration of Nuvau and a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has verified the scientific and technical data disclosed in this news release, and has otherwise reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. Cautionary Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends" "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning drill results relating to the Matagami Property, the results of the PEA, the potential of the Matagami Property, the timing and commencement of any production, the restart of the Bracemac-McLeod Mine, the completion of the earn-in of the Matagami Property and the timing and completion of any technical studies, feasibility studies or economic analyses,. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including expectations and assumptions concerning the Company and the Matagami Property. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements 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. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by the management of the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, neither the Company nor Nuvau undertakes any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236256 SOURCE: Nuvau Minerals Inc. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company"), a leading consolidator of emerging food brands is thrilled to welcome John Grieve as Regional Vice President of Operations, Western Canada for Happy Belly Food Group. "Over the past 10 consecutive record-breaking quarters, Happy Belly has achieved significant growth through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions across its portfolio of emerging brands. To support this momentum, we are excited to announce the appointment of John Grieve as our new Regional Vice President of Operations for Western Canada, overseeing our expanding footprint," said Sean Black, Chief Executive Officer of Happy Belly. "To support this momentum it was important for us to increase our bench strength. As a first step John will work closely with brand managers, franchisees, and corporate teams to align operational strategies with our growth goals, ensuring scalability, profitability, and the continued excellence that defines Happy Belly." "I am happy to continue putting the band back together and reuniting with John as part of the team. I first met John when we hired him at CraveIt Restaurant Group where John played a pivotal role in overseeing Via Cibo and driving our growth in Western Canada. As our brands continue to scale, John's expertise and leadership will be invaluable in guiding them through this exciting phase of expansion. In this key leadership position, John will concentrate on optimizing operational efficiency, elevating the guest experience, and supporting the ongoing growth of our franchised and corporate-owned locations. His extensive experience in the franchised food sector includes various senior leadership roles at Fat Burger, Crave IT Restaurant Group, Five Guys Burgers and Fries and Edo Japan." "John brings a wealth of expertise that will help elevate our teams and brands including Rosie's Burgers, Heal and Via Cibo in Western Canada. He is an excellent cultural fit, embodying an entrepreneurial spirit and a hands-on approach, working closely with our brand operators, financial teams, and partners. We are confident in his leadership as we continue driving growth through disciplined organic expansion and accretive M&A initiatives." We are just getting started Franchising For franchising inquiries please see www.happybellyfg.com/franchise-with-us/ or contact us at hello@happybellyfg.com. About Happy Belly Food Group Happy Belly Food Group Inc. (CSE: HBFG) (OTCQB: HBFGF) ("Happy Belly" or the "Company") is a leading consolidator of emerging food brands. Happy Belly To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6625/236270_b0f115ca945829c8_001full.jpg Happy Belly Food Group Sean Black Chief Executive Officer Shawn Moniz Chief Operating Officer Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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, which has been prepared by management. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur and include the future performance of Happy Belly and her subsidiaries. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the business plans for Happy Belly described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulators, which are posted on www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236270 SOURCE: Happy Belly Food Group Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Cabral Gold Inc. (TSXV: CBR) (OTC Pink: CBGZF) ("Cabral" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a summary of the progress achieved during 2024 at the Cuiu Cuiu gold district in northern Brazil, and an outline of its plans for 2025. Progress during 2024 The Company made significant progress during 2024 which can be summarized as follows: Machichie NE discovery. A new high-grade gold discovery was made at the Machichie NE target at Cuiu Cuiu, which is located just 150m NE of the Machichie Main discovery, and 650m north of the MG gold deposit. Drill results include 11m @ 33g/t gold, 6m @ 13.3 g/t gold and 5m @ 24.5 g/t gold, and the zone has so far been traced 200m along strike and remains open (see press releases dated May 30, July 25 and October 28, 2024) Completion of PFS confirms financially attractive Initial Starter Operation. The Company completed a pre-feasibility study ("PFS") on an initial starter operation to mine and heap-leach process near-surface oxide material at Cuiu Cuiu. This short-term development pathway study supports the generation of cash flow to accelerate the ongoing exploration of the Cuiu Cuiu district while transitioning away from equity financings (see press release dated October 21, 2024) The PFS base case resulted in an after-tax IRR of 47.3% and after-tax NPV5 of US$25.2 million for an initial 720,000 tonne / yr starter operation at a gold price of $2,250 / oz. The capex estimate is US$ 37.4 million, including a 10% allowance on most quantities and a 20% contingency Jerimum Cima target. A fifth gold-in-oxide blanket was identified at Jerimum Cima. Initial trench results include 18m @ 1.9 g/t gold and the blanket appears to extend over an area of 1000 x 900m. Previous reconnaissance drilling at Jerimum Cima returned 14m @ 1.6 g/t gold, 20m @ 1.2 g/t gold, 10m @ 1.3 g/t gold and 24m @ 0.7 g/t gold in weathered gold-in-oxide blanket and saprolite material (see press release dated November 14, 2024) Central gold deposit. Drilling at the Central gold deposit returned 10m @ 10.5 g/t gold in fresh rock, including 1m @ 63.6 g/t gold and 1m @ 28.3 g/t gold, confirming the presence of significant high-grade material within the larger lower grade resource (see press release dated January 11, 2024) Machichie Main discovery. Drilling at the Machichie Main zone, located 500m north of the MG gold deposit, returned 30m @ 2.6 g/t gold and 23m @ 1.1 g/t gold within near-surface weathered oxide material, confirming the presence of a new zone of oxide material of excellent grade which is likely to have a significant positive impact on the PFS base case in the coming months (see press releases dated January 25 and February 6, 2024) We continue to build our team through strategic management appointments. The Company appointed Brian Arkell as VP Exploration and Technical Services in April and Samantha Shorter as CFO in July. Both Brian and Samantha have significant production experience and have had an immediate impact on the Company's progress (see press releases dated April 3 and July 9, 2024) Financing. Despite difficult market conditions the Company raised a total of $4.36M through private placements which closed in April and December (see press releases dated April 29 and December 20, 2024) Plan for 2025 The Company is pursuing a two-stage development strategy for the Cuiu Cuiu district, which currently contains two significant gold deposits with resources, three new discoveries, and a large number of targets (+50) with gold in trenches, drill holes and boulders. Stage 1 of this strategy involves near-term production aimed at generating free cash flow to fund an ambitious drilling program to prioritize the growth of the much larger hard rock resource base, which could support a much larger operation (Stage 2). The recent completion of the PFS on an initial starter mining / heap leach operation at Cuiu Cuiu is a major step forward in this regard. A major focus for the first six months of 2025 will be on drilling and upgrading the Inferred oxide resources at Central and Machichie Main to Indicated status. This will allow for the inclusion of additional Indicated resources in the PFS base case mine plan. In parallel, the Company will complete detailed engineering on the project. The Company is also progressing discussions with a number of parties that have expressed an interest regarding financing of the project. Further trenching and drilling is also planned at the Machichie NE target during 2025 where drilling during 2024 returned 11m @ 33g/t gold, 6m @ 13.3 g/t gold and 5m @ 24.5 g/t gold. With such an encouraging start, we aim to rapidly assess the target's potential to add quality high grade ounces to our oxide and primary resources. Additional trenching and RC drilling is also planned at the Jerimum Cima gold-in-oxide blanket which is currently estimated to extend over an area of 1000 x 900m and could further enhance the strength of the oxide project in its early years. Recent Financing Further to the Company's news release dated December 20, 2024, announcing completion of its non-brokered private placement, a director of the Company participated in the private placement through the purchase of 833,333 units for proceeds of $200,000. Grant of Options Cabral's Board of Directors has also approved the granting of stock options pursuant to the Plan. The stock options entitle the holders to purchase a total of 5,725,000 common shares in the capital stock of the Company at a price of $0.22 per common share. The grant includes 1,500,000 stock options granted to four independent directors and 2,450,000 stock options granted to four officers. The stock options are exercisable for five years and are subject to vesting over 24 months. About Cabral Gold Inc. The Company is a junior resource company engaged in the identification, exploration, and development of mineral properties, with a primary focus on gold properties located in Brazil. The Company has a 100% interest in the Cuiu Cuiu gold district located in the Tapajos Region, within the state of Para in northern Brazil. Three main gold deposits have so far been defined at the Cuiu Cuiu project which contain National Instrument ("NI") 43-101 Indicated resources of 12.29Mt @ 1.14 g/t gold (450,200oz) in fresh basement material and 11.11Mt @ 0.48 g/t gold (171,883oz) in oxide material. The project also contains Inferred resources of 13.63Mt @ 1.04 g/t gold (455,100oz) in fresh basement material and 12.22Mt @ 0.39 g/t gold (151,608oz) in oxide material. The resource estimate for the primary material is based on the NI 43-101 technical report dated 12th October 2022.The resource estimate for the oxide material is based on the NI 43-101 technical report dated 4th December 2024. The Tapajos Gold Province is the site of the largest gold rush in Brazil's history which according to the ANM (Agencia Nacional de Mineracao or National Mining Agency of Brazil) produced an estimated 30 to 50 million ounces of placer gold between 1978 and 1995. Cuiu Cuiu was the largest area of placer gold workings in the Tapajos and produced an estimated 2Moz of placer gold historically. Technical information included in this release was supervised and approved by Brian Arkell, B.S. Geology and M.S. Economic Geology, SME (Registered Member), AusIMM (Fellow) and SEG (Fellow), Cabral Gold's Vice President, Exploration and Technical Services, and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such 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 forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). The use of the words "will", "expected" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. This news release contains forward-looking statements and assumptions pertaining to the following: strategic plans and future operations, and results of exploration. Actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. Notes Gold analysis has been conducted by SGS method FAA505 (fire assay of 50g charge), with higher grade samples checked by FAA525. Analytical quality is monitored by certified references and blanks. Until dispatch, samples are stored under the supervision the Company's exploration office. The samples are couriered to the assay laboratory using a commercial contractor. Pulps are returned to the Company and archived. Drill holes results are quoted as down-hole length weighted intersections. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236273 SOURCE: Cabral Gold Inc. Wisdom Analytics, an emerging leader in AI-powered solutions for the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, has announced the appointment of Kyle Bishop as Director of Business Development. Bart Flaherty, CEO and co-founder of Wisdom Analytics, said, "Kyle will be a driving force for growth at Wisdom Analytics. His exceptional skill in building strategic partnerships and identifying new business opportunities will be instrumental in helping us expand our reach and deliver even greater value to our clients." As Director of Business Development, Bishop will focus on driving the company's expansion into new markets, fostering strategic partnerships, and identifying opportunities for growth, further enhancing Wisdom Analytics' ability to support CPG companies in optimizing their operations. Sanjiv Garg, chairman and co-founder of Wisdom Analytics, added, "Kyle's understanding of the manufacturing industry and his proven track record in business development will be a tremendous asset as we continue to scale and deliver innovative solutions to our clients. We're delighted to welcome him to the team." Bishop shared his excitement about joining at such a pivotal moment. "I'm excited to join Wisdom Analytics at such an innovative and transformative time," Bishop said. "The company is setting a new standard for how businesses predict and achieve growth outcomes by integrating AI into their planning processes. I look forward to collaborating with the team as we continue to redefine the future of RGM and help organizations drive sustainable growth." For more information about Wisdom Analytics and its AI-powered solutions for demand planning and trade promotion optimization, visit www.wisdomanalytics.com. About Wisdom Analytics Wisdom Analytics is a cutting-edge AI and analytics company, purpose-built of CPG veterans to solve long-standing industry challenges, who are transforming Revenue Growth Management, Demand & Sales Planning, and Trade Promotion Optimization in the Consumer Packaged Goods sector. By developing faster and more precise models, integrating diverse data sources, and delivering more accurate forecasts and actionable insights, Wisdom Analytics empowers organizations to overcome complex challenges, find new opportunities for efficiency and growth, and unlock substantial value across their operations. SOURCE: Wisdom Analytics View the original press release on accesswire.com Highlander Silver Corp. (CSE:HSLV)("Highlander Silver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Earle as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective immediately. He succeeds Richard Warke, Interim President and CEO, who will continue to serve on the Board of Directors alongside Messrs. Thomas Whelan, Jerrold Annett, Javier Toro and Federico Velasquez. In addition to Mr. Earle, Highlander Silver has strengthened its management team with the appointments of Sunny Lowe as Chief Financial Officer, Federico Velasquez as President Peru, Sergio Gelcich as Vice President Exploration, Arun Lamba as Vice President Corporate Development, Purni Parikh as Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs, and Tom Ladner as General Counsel, also effective immediately. Daniel Earle, commented: "It is my deep honour to be appointed to lead a highly-motivated management team with proven expertise in the key disciplines required to launch Highlander Silver and its bonanza grade San Luis project into the forthcoming structural bull market in silver. I would like to thank Richard Warke for this opportunity, and the Augusta Group, Lundin family members and Eric Sprott as strategic shareholders for their support as we embark on this exciting journey." Daniel Earle Appointed President & CEO Daniel Earle has over 20 years of experience in the mining sector and capital markets, most recently serving as the President and CEO of Solaris Resources. At Solaris, Mr. Earle led an award-winning team credited with revitalizing a dormant copper discovery in Ecuador and launching it into a secular bull market for copper. Solaris delivered rapid socioeconomic development and returns for its shareholders by advancing its flagship project to the development stage and growing it to ten-times its original size. Prior to joining Solaris in 2019, Mr. Earle was a Vice President and Director at TD Securities, covering the mining sector for more than 12 years. Mr. Earle is a graduate and scholar of the Lassonde Mineral Engineering Program at the University of Toronto. Sunny Lowe Appointed Chief Financial Officer Sunny Lowe has over 25 years of capital markets, finance, and international accounting, tax and risk management experience, most recently serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Solaris Resources, where Ms. Lowe was a driving force in the advancement of its flagship project and corporate development strategy. Prior to joining Solaris in 2021, Ms. Lowe was Chief Financial Officer for a South American gold exploration and development company where she was instrumental in its acquisition by an intermediate gold producer. Ms. Lowe has also previously served as Vice President, Finance, and Vice President, Internal Audit & Enterprise Risk Management for Kinross Gold. Ms. Lowe is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University. Federico Velasquez Appointed President Peru Federico Velasquez has over 20 years of experience in regulatory, permitting, government and community relations, with special expertise in relation to indigenous communities, most recently serving as President, Latin America at Solaris Resources. At Solaris, Mr. Velasquez was responsible for a precedent-setting corporate social responsibility strategy that included implementing full spectrum community development programs, signing Impacts and Benefits Agreements and cooperation agreements with local and regional communities, and advancing permitting to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment for the construction of the flagship project. Prior to joining Solaris in 2019, Mr. Velasquez was Director of Corporate Affairs-Global for Equinox Gold. Before that he spent more than 5 years leading corporate affairs and supporting the management of assets for Anglo American Metallurgical Coal - Canada & Australia. Sergio Gelcich Appointed Vice President Exploration Dr. Sergio Gelcich has over 25 years of experience leading the geological and technical aspects of exploration projects across the globe, most recently serving as the Vice President of Exploration for Cerrado Gold and Ascendant Resources. At Cerrado, Dr. Gelcich was responsible for overseeing the exploratory and Mineral Resource aspects of projects in South America. At Ascendant, Dr. Gelcich played a key role in updating economic studies and expanding the Lagoa Salgada polymetallic deposit in Portugal. Prior to this, Dr. Gelcich was the Director of Exploration for Hudbay Minerals, where he led the corporate geology and exploration team. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Geology and a Master of Science in Geology from the Universidad de Chile, as well as a PhD in Geology from the University of Toronto. Arun Lamba Appointed Vice President Corporate Development Arun Lamba has over 15 years of experience in financial services and capital markets covering the mining sector, most recently serving as Vice President Corporate Development for Solaris Resources. Prior to joining Solaris in 2024, Mr. Lamba was a Senior Mining Analyst at TD Cowen, a leading North American investment bank, where he gained a wide range of analytical experience covering mining projects from early-stage exploration through feasibility and construction to production in both base and precious metals. Mr. Lamba is a Chartered Financial Analyst and completed an MBA at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and degrees in engineering and economics at Queen's University. Purni Parikh Appointed Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs Purni Parikh has over 25 years of public company experience in the mining sector including corporate affairs and finance, legal and regulatory administration, and governance. Ms. Parikh is President of the Augusta Group of Companies and Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs of its member companies. Ms. Parikh obtained a Certificate in Business from the University of Toronto and a Gemology degree. Ms. Parikh holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. Tom Ladner Appointed General Counsel Tom Ladner has over 10 years of securities legal and regulatory experience, most recently serving as the Vice President Legal at Solaris Resources since 2020, and General Counsel for the Augusta Group of Companies. Prior to joining the Augusta Group, Mr. Ladner practiced law in the Securities and Capital Markets group of a major Canadian law firm. Mr. Ladner has advised on multiple M&A transactions valued in excess of $1B and more than 30 public market financing transactions with an aggregate value of more than $1B. In 2024, Mr. Ladner was a finalist for both the Western Canada General Counsel Awards and the Canadian General Counsel Awards "Tomorrow's Leader Award." Mr. Ladner has his Honors in Business Administration with distinction from the Richard Ivey School of Business and his Juris Doctor from Western University. About Highlander Silver Highlander Silver is advancing a portfolio of silver exploration and development assets in the Americas, including the bonanza grade San Luis gold-silver project that is located adjacent to the Pierina mine in Central Peru. Highlander Silver is backed by the Augusta Group, which boasts an exceptional track record of value creation totaling over $4.5B in exit transactions, and supported by strategic shareholders, the Lundin Family and Eric Sprott. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol HSLV. Additional information about Highlander Silver and its mineral projects can be viewed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at (www.sedarplus.ca) and its website at www.highlandersilver.com. Neither the CSE nor the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. For further information, please contact: Arun Lamba, Vice President Corporate Development Email: alamba@highlandersilver.com Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. This includes, but is not limited to, information or statements with respect to the forthcoming structural bull market in silver. Such forward looking information or statements may be identified by the use of words such as "forthcoming". Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company and/or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, commodity prices, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, accident, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, and delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing. Although the Company 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 could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking information contained herein are made as of the date of this news release. 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 statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. SOURCE: Highlander Silver Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com SHENZHEN, China, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hypershell, a leader in PowerSuit based on Exoskeleton Technology, proudly announces its participation at CES 2025 following the successful launch of the Hypershell X Series. Highlighting this milestone, the Hypershell Carbon X has been named a CES Innovation Awards 2025 Best of Innovation Honoree in the Robotics Category. Hypershell leads in PowerSuit technology, combining innovation with a mission to empower individuals and reconnect them with nature. The company's focus on exploration and sustainability has earned global acclaim, with over $1.3 million raised on Kickstarter and Indiegogo in one month, supported by over 2,900 backers. Additional multimillion-dollar funding highlights the transformative potential of Hypershell's technology. Furthermore, all crowdfunding orders will be fulfilled shortly, and we thank our backers for their continued support. The Hypershell X Series revolutionizes outdoor exploration. Weighing just 2.4 kg (including the battery), it delivers a range of 17.5 km on a single charge. Powered by the advanced M-One Exoskeleton Motor System, it provides 800W of assistive power, increasing lower limb strength by 40% and reducing physical exertion by 30%. Designed for comfort and adaptability, the X Series features adjustable sizing, 300 of torsional freedom, and durability to withstand temperatures from -20C to 60C, with IP54 dust and water resistance. Complementing the X Series, the AeroFlex Softsuit enhances user comfort with superior load distribution and breathability, making it the ultimate exploration companion. Integrated with MotionEngine technology, the PowerSuit uses AI-driven algorithms and high-precision sensors to deliver real-time, tailored assistance. By predicting and adapting to user movements, the system offers a seamless and intuitive experience. Visitors to CES 2025 can experience the Hypershell X Series firsthand at Hall G Booth #60101 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, from January 7-10, 2025. Following the event, the Hypershell X Series will be available globally starting January 20, 2025, with prices starting at $799/899. For more information, visit the Hypershell Official Website . About Hypershell Founded in 2021, Hypershell leads in PowerSuit technology, advancing human potential through innovation. Our mission is to transform lifestyles with technologies that empower individuals and redefine mobility. By combining robotics, ergonomics, and AI, we create products that push boundaries, reconnect users with nature, and inspire new possibilities. Dedicated to sustainability, Hypershell enables extraordinary experiences and drives progress for a more connected future. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2590068/Hypershell_X_Series.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hypershell-x-series-redefining-mobility-at-ces-2025-302341895.html Acquisition positions Mail Metrics as a major player in the UK market, growing the business to 600 employees and 175m/210m combined revenue DUBLIN, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mail Metrics, a rapidly growing customer communications technology provider serving financial and regulated industries, has announced its acquisition of Adare SEC, a UK-based leader in multi-channel communication management. This strategic move accelerates Mail Metrics' expansion into the UK market while solidifying its reputation as a trusted provider of digital and printed communication solutions. Mail Metrics has achieved remarkable growth in recent years, with revenue growing from 1 million in 2019 to a projected 175/210 million proforma in 2024. The acquisition of Adare SEC, which operates from sites in Huddersfield, Leicester, and Glasgow, increases Mail Metrics' workforce from 150 to 600 employees, and marks the company's fourth acquisition in four years. As part of the deal, MML Growth Capital Partners Ireland has invested a substantial amount in Mail Metrics for a minority stake. The deal is also backed by Bank of Ireland and AIB. Mail Metrics' solution enables large enterprises in highly regulated industries to digitally transform their customer communication and engagement processes while ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent financial and data protection regulations. This aligns with Adare SEC's expertise in delivering integrated physical and digital communication management solutions for clients in similarly regulated markets, including the public sector. Nick Keegan, Group CEO UK & Ireland, Mail Metrics, said: "This is a landmark day for Mail Metrics as we welcome Adare SEC into our group. Tony Strong and his team have built an exceptional business with a stellar reputation in the market. This acquisition is a natural step in our scaling journey, combining our strengths to deliver innovative and compliant communication solutions for our growing client base across the UK and Ireland." "I would like to extend my gratitude to our financial backers who have made this deal possible. MML Ireland, our new private equity partner, and our banking partners at Bank of Ireland and AIB have provided invaluable support throughout the process. Their collective confidence in our vision and commitment to this acquisition has been instrumental in bringing us to this successful outcome." "Additionally, I would like to thank Clearwater, our corporate finance advisors, for their advice, and unwavering support throughout the entire process." Chris Walsh Investment Director at MML Ireland said: "MML is delighted to back Nick and his team in this landmark acquisition. Mail Metrics has built a brilliant, customer-focused business underpinned by its own technology. The deal brings together two of the leading providers of critical customer communications in the UK and Ireland and we look forward to working with the combined Mail Metrics and Adare SEC team to bring out the best of both businesses and to support them on their continued growth journey." Tony Strong, CEO of Adare SEC, commented: "This is a fantastic next chapter for the business and I greatly look forward to working with Nick and the team to ensure a seamless transition. These are exciting times, and the future looks extremely bright. I want to echo Nick by also thanking our advisory teams EY and Pinsent Masons who have been invaluable during this process" Adare SEC's former Chairman, Peter De Haan, who has owned the company since 2000, will be retiring following the sale. He remarked: "We are immensely proud of all we have achieved under the Adare SEC banner, and we knew that the sale of the company had to be to a business with the same expertise, ambition and deep respect for the industry. Mail Metrics is a perfect fit, and the growth to date of the business showcases the talent of Nick and the team. I want to thank Tony Strong and all Adare SEC colleagues across our Huddersfield, Leicester and Glasgow sites for their incredible work in driving the company forward, and I wish the new venture every success." The acquisition builds on Mail Metrics' proven track record of strategic growth, following its previous acquisitions of Persona (Ireland) and Forth Communications (UK) in 2021, and Dafil (Ireland) in 2023. For more information, visit www.mailmetrics.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592449/NickKeegan_GroupCEO_MailMetrics.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/mail-metrics-secures-mml-backing-and-expands-uk-presence-with-strategic-acquisition-of-adare-sec-302344295.html Seasoned Medtech Executive to Expand Company Presence Into U.S. Anaconda Biomed S.L., a medical technology company developing next-generation thrombectomy systems for the treatment of ischemic stroke, has announced that it has named long-time medtech executive Trent Reutiman as its new CEO. Based in California's San Francisco Bay Area, Reutiman will establish a new footprint for the company in the U.S. as it works towards regulatory approval of its ANA5 Advanced Neurovascular Access (ANA Funnel Catheter Technology), a catheter-based technology designed to improve neurovascular interventions by enhancing the capabilities of existing and forthcoming intravascular neuro devices. Reutiman brings more than twenty-five years of executive, financial, market development, and sales operation leadership experience to Anaconda, with an extensive focus in vascular technologies. Prior to his new position, he was the CEO of Mercator MedSystems Inc., where he oversaw the development of the company's catheter-based drug delivery system for treating peripheral artery disease (PAD) and other venous vascular conditions, raised consecutive rounds of capital, and negotiated a financing and strategic partnership with China-based Shenzhen Salubris Pharmaceuticals Co. (Salubris). Previously, he was VP of global commercial operations for IDEV, a company solving unmet revascularization needs in PAD, which was acquired by Abbott in 2013. Reutiman has also served in leadership roles at ROX Medical, OmniSonics Medical Technologies, and RITA Medical Systems. He holds a bachelor's degree in business and economics from Colorado State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of California, Irvine. Reutiman replaces Anaconda's previous CEO Francois Salmon, who will now serve as the company's Board Chairman. "With its ANA Funnel Catheter Technology, Anaconda Biomed has the potential to deliver a meaningful improvement in first pass reperfusion outcomes, the latest standard in mechanical thrombectomy procedures for ischemic stroke. The company's ATHENA Study is designed to demonstrate clinically meaningful changes for ischemic stroke patients through arrested flow and more secure clot retrieval," said Reutiman. "I am honored to join the company to build on its successes to date and look forward to working closely with Francois, the board, the talented Anaconda team, and all of our study partners to bring this new technology to clinicians and patients in the U.S. and worldwide." Salmon added, "Trent is joining Anaconda at a pivotal time as we advance our clinical program and build evidence supporting FDA approval of the ANA Funnel Catheter in the U.S. On behalf of myself and the rest of the board, we welcome his leadership and contributions moving forward." About ANA Funnel Catheter ANA5 Advanced Neurovascular Access (ANA Funnel Catheter Technology) is a funnel catheter designed to assist in neurovascular procedures by facilitating the delivery of other intravascular devices (i.e., stent retriever devices). The device consists of a radiopaque braid covered with a polymeric coating to enable local flow arrest. The catheter is currently an investigational device and is not available for sale in the United States or the European Union. About Anaconda Biomed Anaconda Biomed is an innovative medical technology company dedicated to developing next-generation thrombectomy systems for the treatment of ischemic stroke. At the heart of its product portfolio is the ANA Funnel Catheter. Anaconda Biomed has received funding from prominent life science investment firms, including Ysios Capital, Omega Funds, Innogest, Asabys Partners, Banco Sabadell, and private investors. Additionally, through public grants, the company has received significant public support from ENISA, CDTI (Innvierte and NEOTEC), the Ministry of Science Innovation (Emplea and Retos), EIB, and EIT Health. For more information, please visit https://anaconda.bio and follow the company on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107830403/en/ Contacts: MEDIA CONTACT: Joe Duraes Pazanga Health Communications jduraes@pazangahealth.com 917-687-6419 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Hayasa Metals Inc. (TSXV: HAY) (OTCQB: HAYAF) ("Hayasa" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the sale of a 1.25% Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty covering all minerals produced from the Urasar gold-copper project in northern Armenia to Franco-Nevada Corporation ("Franco-Nevada") and EMX Royalty Corporation ("EMX"), for US$1,000,000 cash. Commercial Terms Franco-Nevada and EMX will pay the Company a combined US$1 million with Franco-Nevada contributing US$550,000 and EMX contributing US$450,000 in accordance with the terms of a Joint Acquisition Agreement signed between the two companies in August 2023. Each company will retain a 0.625% NSR royalty interest. The royalty acquisition at Urasar represents the first co-investment between Franco-Nevada and EMX pursuant to their Joint Acquisition Agreement. Additionally, each company will be issued 250,000 share purchase warrants, which can be exercised on a one-for-one basis for common shares of Hayasa within 18 months following issuance at an exercise price of CAD 0.22, subject to approval by the exchange. As part of the transaction, Franco and EMX will have a right of first refusal in respect of any future royalty, stream or similar interest on Urasar. Chairman Dennis Moore comments "We are very pleased to make this non-dilutive royalty sale to two of the best-known royalty companies in the mining world. This deal has been attained after months of negotiations between the parties and was finalized at the end of 2024. The funds will enable the Company to enhance its ongoing exploration program at Urasar including an expanded drill program being planned for the 2025 field season, and assist with the acquisition of additional nearby ground." CEO Joel Sutherland added: "The combination of Franco-Nevada and EMX as partners in the Urasar project is a big win for Hayasa. The non-dilutive capital of the royalty sale will materially help Hayasa management in its mission to daylight value for shareholders through 2025 and beyond." Urasar Gold-Copper District The Urasar gold-copper project was acquired by Hayasa in 2023 by direct acquisition of an exploration permit from the Armenian government following an assessment of the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt by Hayasa that was led by Hayasa President and Chairman, Dennis Moore. The Urasar project occurs along a crustal-scale structure representing the closing of the ancient Tethyan sea, which juxtaposes an older package of ophiolitic rocks against Tertiary volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks. Gold and copper mineralization occur along the contact zones throughout the Urasar exploration license and elsewhere in the region. The Urasar area saw minor historic copper production by the French during World War I and was later explored by the Soviets in the 1920's, 1930's and 1950's. Several Soviet era resources were defined in accordance with the Soviet reporting systems at the time (non 43-101 compliant), but virtually no work was carried out until Hayasa's recent exploration programs. The style of mineralization at Urasar displays a similar geological setting to mineralization at the Sotk gold deposit, the largest gold mine in Armenia, which occurs along the same crustal lineament, approximately 120kms to the southeast. Figure 1: Map of Armenia showing active mines, deposits and Hayasa projects To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3169/236238_5c33f85744997823_002full.jpg Armenia In addition to its modern mining code and favorable fiscal regime, Armenia currently has over ten active metals mines including two producing porphyry copper-molybdenum operations, ranking Armenia as the sixth largest molybdenum producer in the world. Mining contributes about 7% to the country's GDP and accounts for approximately 30% of its export revenue. The country has seen recent exploration and development efforts by other western companies, including Orion Mine Finance and Osisko Gold Royalties, who are developing the Amulsar gold project in central Armenia which is expected to produce 200,000 oz of gold per annum commencing in 2025. Qualified person The content of this news release was reviewed by Dennis Moore, Hayasa's President and Chairman, a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Joel Sutherland CEO Hayasa Metals Inc. 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 This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements including, without limitation, statements regarding future exploration programs at Urasar. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations including the risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements only as expressly required by Canadian securities law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236238 SOURCE: Hayasa Metals Inc. Jeito Capital announces significant participation in upsized $207.5 million Series C financing in Aviceda Therapeutics to advance Lead Program AVD-104 for Geographic Atrophy into Pivotal Trials Investment will support the ongoing Phase 2b/3 and planned pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial for AVD-104 in geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD); Aviceda's ongoing Phase 2b/3 trial evaluating AVD-104 is fully enrolled, with 12-month primary endpoint data anticipated in the second half of 2025. Upsized financing round led by a syndicate of top institutional investors, including Jeito Capital, only European fund within the syndicate, bringing strategic expertise to accelerate Aviceda's development across US and European markets. Investment demonstrates Jeito's continued strategic focus in ophthalmology, following recent exit of EyeBio to Merck & Co. Paris, France, January 7th, 2025 - Jeito Capital ("Jeito"), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, announced today its significant participation in the upsized $207.5 million (198 million1) Series C financing round in Aviceda Therapeutics ("Aviceda"), a private, clinical stage biotech company focused on developing next-generation immunomodulators with a clinical-stage ophthalmic candidate, AVD-104, for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA), a vision-threatening condition secondary to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The financing round was co-led by renowned healthcare funds, Omega Funds and TCGX, with significant participation from Jeito Capital and Enavate Sciences, alongside leading investment firms Blue Owl Healthcare Opportunities, Longitude Capital, OrbiMed, Logos Capital, Marshall Wace, Catalio Capital Management, funds managed by abrdn Inc., and Digitalis Ventures. The proceeds will support the ongoing Phase 2b/3 and planned pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial for AVD-104, its late-clinical stage Lead Program in geographic atrophy (GA) and the expansion into additional ophthalmic indications. AVD-104's dual mechanism of action targets immune modulation and complement inhibition and has already shown positive proof-of-concept efficacy in slowing GA lesion growth and preserving/enhancing visual function in a Phase 2a trial completed in early 2024, which underscores its potential for first-in-class efficacy and safety. Aviceda's ongoing Phase 2b/3 trial evaluating two doses of AVD-104 versus avacincaptad pegol (Izervay) in patients with GA is fully enrolled, with 12-month primary endpoint data anticipated in the second half of 2025. Rafaele Tordjman, M.D., PhD and Sara Nayeem, M.D. of Enavate Sciences will join Aviceda's Board of Director as Board Observers. This investment builds on Jeito's expertise in ophthalmology, following its recent exit of EyeBio, which was acquired by Merck & Co for up to $3 billion. Jeito's selection as the only European fund in the syndicate reflects its strategic value in supporting Aviceda's development goals across both US and European markets. The fund's global presence and deep understanding of the European healthcare landscape were key factors in management's decision to include Jeito in this financing round. Dr Rafaele Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital said: "Our investment in Aviceda Therapeutics perfectly illustrates our ambition to champion promising late-clinical stage biopharma with the potential to become global market leaders that will make a meaningful difference in patient lives. We have been impressed by Aviceda's new mechanism whose first positive results represent a new hope for patients. We look forward to starting this new collaboration and bringing our European expertise and global approach to accelerate this transformative therapy for patients with high unmet needs." David Guyer, MD, Board Chair of Aviceda added: "We are pleased to welcome our new board members and a syndicate of top institutional investors. This raise reflects the strong conviction from investors in Aviceda's lead program AVD-104 for geographic atrophy - a market poised for disruption and an improved standard of care, given current treatments offer limited benefits in visual improvements, lesion control, and safety. With this upsized financing, the company is well-capitalized to advance a pivotal program for AVD-104 in GA." About Jeito Capital Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito Capital has 534 million under management and a rapidly growing portfolio of investments. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States. For more information, please visit www.jeito.life or follow us on LinkedInor X. About Aviceda Therapeutics and AVD-104 Aviceda is a private, clinical stage biotechnology company located in Cambridge, MA, with a proprietary High Affinity Ligands of Siglecsand follow the company on LinkedIn . Contacts: Jeito Capital Rafaele Tordjman, Founder & CEO Jessica Fadel, EA Tel: +33 6 33 44 25 47 Maior Stephanie Elbaz - Tel: +33 6 46 05 08 07 ICR Healthcare Mary-Jane Elliott / Davide Salvi / Kris Lam Jeito@icrhealthcare.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 1EUR/USD exchange rate: 1 EUR = 1.0498 USD date December 16, 2024 (source: Banque de France) Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid") (TSXV:CELL)(OTCQB:EVKRF)(FRA:W47) announces that the Company has re-engaged the services of TD Media LLC d/b/a Life Water Media LLC ("Life Water Media") to help raise online marketing awareness and to provide a comprehensive digital media marketing campaign for the Company. Life Water Media is based out of Sugar Land, Texas. The Company has entered into a further Media Services Agreement (the "Agreement) dated January 6, 2025, whereby the services to be provided by Life Water Media will include digital media, marketing strategies, advertising, and awareness campaigns for a fee of US$150,000 for a term of three months upon TSX Venture Exchange ("Exchange") approval. The Agreement may be renewed or extended by the Company and Life Water Media at the end of the initial term. Life Water Media and Grid are not related parties and operate at arm's length. Neither Life Water Media nor its principals have any interest in the Company's securities, directly or indirectly, or any right or intent to acquire such an interest. About Grid Battery Metals Inc. www.gridbatterymetals.com. Grid Battery Metals Inc. is a Canadian based exploration company whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market. About Texas Springs Property The Company owns a 100% interest in the Texas Spring Property which consists of mineral lode claims located in Elko County, Nevada. The Property is in the Granite Range southeast of Jackpot, Nevada, about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Nevada. The target is a lithium clay deposit in volcanic tuff and tuffaceous sediments of the Humbolt Formation. A Phase 1 exploration program at the Texas Springs Property (Fall 2023) yielded average lithium grades of 2010 ppm, applying a 1,000 ppm cut-off, and up to 5,610 ppm Lithium. The Texas Spring property adjoins the southern border of the Nevada North Lithium Project - owned by Surge Battery Metals Inc. ("Surge") (TSXV: NILI, OTC: NILIF) and comprised of 725 mineral claims. Surge's first round of drilling identified strongly mineralized lithium bearing clays. The average lithium content within all near surface clay zones intersected in the 2022 drilling program, applying a 1000 ppm cut-off, was 3254 ppm. (Press release March 29, 2023). More recent results have shown higher grade lithium up to 8070 ppm on this property after initial drilling (Press release September 12, 2023). Our exploration results are on-trend with these results. About Clayton Valley Lithium Project The Company owns a 100% interest in 113 lithium lode and placer claims covering over 930 hectares in Clayton Valley. Clayton Valley is a down-dropped closed basin formed by the Miocene age Great Basin extension and is still active due to movement along the Walker Lane structural zone. As a result, the basin has preserved multiple layers of lithium bearing volcanic ash, resulting from multiple eruptive events over the past 6 million years including eruptions from the 700,000-year-old Long Valley Caldera system and related events. These ash layers are thought to contribute to the lithium brines extracted by Albemarle and are also likely involved in the formation of the exposed lithium rich clay deposits on the east side of Clayton Valley. About the Volt Canyon Lithium Property The Company owns a 100% interest in 80 placer claims covering approximately 635 hectares of alluvial sediments and clays located 122 km northeast of Tonopah, Nevada. About the British Columbia Copper Project The Company acquired a 100% interest in 17 mineral claims comprising 27,525 hectares (approximately 275 km2) located in North Central British Columbia. The region is host to numerous operating mines, good infrastructure including experienced exploration and supporting services. Prominent among early discoveries in the Omineca region include the nearby Lustdust/Stardust Copper - Gold deposit; the Kwanika Copper - Gold depositandthe Lorraine Copper deposit (all of which are owned by (NorthWest Copper Corp. (TSXV: NWST)). The Company's claims are also located between Centerra Gold Inc.'s (TSX: CG, NYSE: CGAU) prominent Copper/Gold assets, the Kemess North project and the operating Mount Milligan mine, which has produced over 1.8 million ounces of gold and 742 million pounds of copper (Technical Report on the Mount Milligan Mine, November 7, 2022, Borntrager. B, et al.). On Behalf of the Board of Directors "Tim Fernback" Tim Fernback, President & CEO Contact Information: Email: info@gridbatterymetals.com Phone: 604- 428-5690 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 may contain forward-looking statements which include, but are not limited to, comments that involve future events and conditions, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Except for statements of historical facts, comments that address resource potential, upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt and security of mineral property titles, availability of funds, and others are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may vary materially from those statements. General business conditions are factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Grid Battery Metals Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com $12.5 Million Drill Program to Advance Ultra High-Grade Pike Zone Discovery Partner Funded Winter Drill Program at Cree East Project Announced Saskatoon, Saskatchewan--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") is preparing for winter drill programs at two of it's projects in the southeastern Athabasca Basin (Figure 1). Figure 1 - Project Locations Map To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/236231_db5eed7004127834_002full.jpg An approved $12.5 million exploration program on the West McArthur Joint Venture project is scheduled to start in early January. The 2025 West McArthur program will focus on continued expansion and delineation of the ultra high-grade Pike Zone uranium discovery. The Company will have a second drill program active on the Cree East uranium project. The Cree East program will focus on a series of high-priority exploration target areas that have been identified. The Company is fully funded to complete its exploration programs in 2025. 2025 West McArthur Exploration Program In 2024, the Company announced the intersection of ultra high-grade unconformity-associated uranium mineralization at the Pike Zone. The recently completed summer drill program, consisting of 12 unconformity tests at the Pike Zone, returned 11 intersections of uranium mineralization. The results of the summer drill program indicate a strike length of uranium mineralization along the unconformity target area of approximately 200 metres that remains open in all directions. Multiple drill fences within the unconformity target area define a high-grade core that remains open and extends for at least 100 metres in strike length. Figure 2 - West McArthur Pike Zone Winter Drill Plan To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/236231_db5eed7004127834_004full.jpg Starting in January of 2025, the Company will have three drills active on the Pike Zone. The drill rigs will be focused on delineation of the Pike Zone within the currently understood footprint. In addition, the Company plans to continue calculated step outs along the C10S corridor from the Pike Zone to evaluate for additional zones of uranium mineralization (Figure 2). To the west of the Pike Zone, where the high-grade core remains completely open, the C10S corridor remains untested for approximately 1,000 metres. As part of the 2025 exploration program, the Company is also planning a ground-based electromagnetic survey to investigate the extension of the C10S corridor to the southwestern property boundary. Historical EM coverage will be replaced with modern Stepwise Moving Loop Time Domain Electromagnetics, utilizing the same survey design that led to the discovery of the Pike Zone. The West McArthur project, a Joint Venture with Cameco Corporation, is operated by CanAlaska that holds an estimated 85.79% ownership in the Project as a result of sole-funding exploration in 2024. CanAlaska is sole-funding the 2025 West McArthur program and will further increase its majority ownership in the Project as a result. The remainder of the geochemical assay results from the summer portion of the 2024 exploration program are pending. 2025 Cree East Winter Exploration Program A winter drill program is planned to start in Q1 of 2025 for the Cree East uranium project located in the southeastern Athabasca Basin. The planned program will focus on a series of high-priority target areas identified based on the results of historical drilling and re-interpreted geophysical surveys (Figure 3). The Cree East project has had over $20 million in prior exploration activity, highlighted by drilling results from the Target Area B, where clay alteration extends throughout the entire sandstone with altered pyrite and associated uranium enrichment in the lower sandstone. The sandstone alteration is associated with wide intersections of brecciation and faulting, causing over 50 metres of vertical unconformity displacement. Hydrothermal alteration persists deep into the basement rocks. Figure 3 - Cree East Drill Targets To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/236231_db5eed7004127834_006full.jpg Several targets have been identified for the multi-phase program, with the initial testing to focus on Area B followed by Areas A, I, and an untested conductor trend. The Cree East project is currently being sole-funded by Nexus Uranium Corp (CSE: NEXU) under an option earn-in agreement with the Company that could see up to $19 million worth of exploration expenditures completed on the project (See News Release Dated March 19th, 2024). Additional 2025 Exploration Programs The Company is preparing several additional discovery opportunities within its 500,000-hectare eastern Athabasca-focused land portfolio. The Company continues to deploy a hybrid explorer and project generator model, actively seeking new partners to advance the other projects in its large exploration portfolio and seeking new opportunities through strategic land staking. CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments, "The results from the West McArthur Joint Venture and the Pike Zone discovery in 2024 were exceptional and I am pleased with the planned drilling program designed by the CanAlaska team to delineate and extend the ultra high-grade Pike Zone in early 2025. In addition, I am excited to report to our shareholders that CanAlaska has an opportunity to significantly increase its joint venture ownership in this impressive discovery through sole-funded exploration which provides a unique circumstance to build incredible value for our shareholders in the eastern Athabasca Basin's newest high-grade uranium discovery. Our recently completed bought deal financing has CanAlaska fully funded to meet its objectives at Pike Zone in 2025. Market fundamentals remain very strong and now is the time for significant new uranium discoveries to fuel the future with clean baseload energy." About CanAlaska Uranium CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) is a Canadian based exploration company and holds interest in approximately 500,000 hectares (1,235,000 acres) in Canada's Athabasca Basin focused on exploration and discovery of high-grade unconformity uranium deposits. The Company is actively advancing the Pike Zone discovery - a new high-grade uranium discovery on its West McArthur Joint Venture project in the eastern Athabasca Basin. In addition, the Company has several other uranium-focused exploration programs. CanAlaska deploys a hybrid project generator model, focusing on the acquisition and sale of prospective projects, while also executing exploration programs on CanAlaska's most strategic land holdings. The Company's extensive portfolio has attracted international mining companies, including Cameco Corporation and Denison Mines as active partners. CanAlaska is led by an experienced team of professionals with a proven track record of discovery. The Company's head office is in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada with a satellite office in Vancouver, BC, Canada. For further information visit www.canalaska.com. The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd., who has reviewed and approved its contents. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Cory Belyk" Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC CEO, President and Director CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Forward-looking information All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently identified by such words as "may", "will", "plan", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend" and similar words referring to future events and results. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and the Company cautions against placing undue reliance thereon. The Company assumes no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements except as required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236231 SOURCE: CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (the "Company" or "EMX") is pleased to announce the purchase of a 0.625% NSR royalty interest covering all minerals produced from the Urasar gold-copper project in northern Armenia, which is wholly owned and being advanced by Hayasa Metals Inc. ("Hayasa", (TSXV: HAY), formerly Fremont Gold Ltd. Further to a Joint Acquisition Agreement between EMX and Franco-Nevada Corporation ("Franco") entered into in 2023 (see EMX News Release dated August 1, 2023), Franco has also acquired a 0.625% NSR royalty. Commercial Terms Overview. EMX and Franco will pay Hayasa a combined US$1 million (with EMX contributing US$450,000 and Franco contributing US$550,000 in accordance with the terms of the Joint Acquisition Agreement) in exchange for: A 1.25% NSR royalty interest to be shared evenly between EMX and Franco (i.e. each company will receive a 0.625% NSR royalty interest) that covers the Urasar project licenses and a surrounding area of interest; and 500,000 share purchase warrants, which can be exercised on a one-for-one basis for common shares of Hayasa within 18 months at a strike price of C$0.22 per share (EMX and Franco will each receive 250,000 of the share purchase warrants). As part of the transaction, EMX and Franco will have a right of first refusal in respect of any royalty, stream or similar interest on Urasar. Overview of the Urasar Project. The Urasar gold-copper project was acquired by Hayasa in 2023 by direct acquisition of an exploration license from the Armenian government following an assessment of the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt by Hayasa that was led by Dennis Moore. Mr. Moore is a well-known and accomplished explorer who is credited with the discoveries of the Tocantinzinho and Cuiu Cuiu gold deposits in Brazil. The Urasar project is positioned along a regional structural zone that juxtaposes an older package of ophiolitic rocks with younger volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks. Gold and copper mineralization are localized along the contact zones throughout the Urasar exploration license and elsewhere in the region. Urasar saw historic copper production by the French during World War I and was later explored by the Soviets in the 1920's, 1930's and 1950's. Several Soviet era resources were defined (in accordance with the Soviet reporting systems at the time), but virtually no work has been completed since. The styles of mineralization at Urasar bear resemblance to the styles of mineralization in the Sokt gold deposit, the largest developed gold deposit in Armenia. Further information on the project is summarized on Hayasa's website. Armenia has seen recent exploration and development efforts by other western companies, including Orion Mine Finance and Osisko Gold Royalties, who are working to develop the Amulsar gold project in southern Armenia. In addition to its modern mining code and favorable fiscal regime, Armenia currently has over ten active metals mines, and mining is a significant contributor to its GDP. EMX believes that Urasar has potential to become a significant discovery based upon the historical work done on the property, new surface geochemical and geophysical data collected by Hayasa, and overall geological characteristics. The royalty acquisition at Urasar represents the first co-investment between EMX and Franco as part of their Joint Acquisition Agreement. Comments on Historical Mineral Resources. EMX does not consider the historical mineral resources defined at Urasar during the Soviet era to be compliant with NI 43-101 standards, nor is EMX treating the historic resources as current resources on the project. They are discussed here strictly for their historical context and should not be relied upon until they can be confirmed. Comments on Nearby Mines and Deposits. The mines and deposits discussed in this news release provide context for EMX's projects, which occur in similar geologic settings, but this is not necessarily indicative that the Company's projects host similar styles, tonnages or grades of mineralization. Dr. Eric P. Jensen, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and employee of 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236237 SOURCE: EMX Royalty Corp. BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Bio-Techne Corp. (TECH), a life sciences company, announced Tuesday that it has won a second claim of reverse engineering by Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, which may appeal the Court's ruling.The company noted that Miltenyi commercialized antibodies developed based on information obtained by reverse engineering Bio-Techne's proprietary R&D Systems branded NKG2C/CD159c antibodies.In a similar case from 2023, Miltenyi was found to have reversed engineered and commercialized Bio-Techne's proprietary R&D Systems branded TIGIT and CCR-7 antibodies.Bio-Techne noted that it took legal action against Miltenyi in the Cologne Regional Court, Germany, after discovering that the variable regions of Miltenyi's NKG2C/CD159c antibodies were 100% identical to the R&D Systems antibodies.The court found that Miltenyi has been marketing and selling these reverse engineered antibodies. The court also determined that Bio-Techne is entitled to monetary damages related to sales of the reverse engineered antibodies, and reimbursement for Bio-Techne's costs incurred, among others.Kim Kelderman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bio-Techne, said, 'We have spent almost five decades developing our extensive catalogue of solutions that enable the scientific community to discover novel biological insights and develop advanced therapeutics. We will continue to vigorously defend our intellectual property against Miltenyi and any other potential offenders.'For More Such Health News, visit rttnews.comCopyright(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. Jeito Capital leads $67.5 million (64.4 million1) Series B financing in XyloCor Therapeutics to develop Novel Gene Therapy in Cardiovascular Disease Proceeds of financing will support two double-blinded Phase 2 trials for its lead candidate XC001, a pioneering transformative gene therapy approach for the treatment of severe cardiovascular disease This investment builds on Jeito's expertise in cardiology, demonstrating its continued strategic commitment to bring breakthrough therapies to patients with high unmet needs Paris, France, January 7th, 2025 - Jeito Capital ("Jeito"), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, announced today it is leading a $67.5 million (64.4 million1) Series B financing round in XyloCor Therapeutics ("XyloCor"), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel gene therapies for cardiovascular disease. Existing institutional investors, including EQT, Fountain Healthcare Partners, and Lumira Ventures, also participated in the round. Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital, will also join XyloCor Board of Directors. XyloCor is pioneering the application of one-time gene therapy to address significant unmet treatment needs among underserved patients with cardiovascular disease. Proceeds from the investment will support a randomized, double-blind Phase 2b clinical trialpublished in Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions, EXACT-2 (Phase 2b clinical trial) is planned to be launched in 2025. Furthermore, the financing will also fund a second randomized, double-blind Phase 2 trial of XC001 as an adjunctive treatment to coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). CABG is generally recommended when there are significant blockages in the major coronary arteries with the objective to improve oxygen-rich blood flow, resulting in improvement in cardiovascular disease symptoms and quality of life, and reduction in future cardiac events. Administering XC001 during the CABG procedure is intended to promote the growth of new blood vessels in the areas of the heart not treated by the bypass grafts and therefore reduce symptoms and improve outcomes beyond the bypass alone. XyloCor plans to dose the first patient in the Phase 2 study by year end 2025. Through this investment, Jeito strengthens its expertise in Cardiology and renews its commitment to this therapeutic area with high unmet needs. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally and thus, call for the emergence of new innovative therapies. Dr. Rafaele Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital, said: "XyloCor's transformative potential in cardiology perfectly fits with our strategy aimed at accelerating the emergence of potential game changers. We are excited to collaborate with XyloCor's talented and experienced team and further supporting them with our expertise in cardiology in order to develop a breakthrough gene therapy that has the great potential to make a meaningful difference in patient lives." Rachel Mears, Partner at Jeito Capital and incoming Board Member at XyloCor Therapeutics, added: "We are thrilled to support XyloCor as it advances its clinical trials to evaluate XC001 as a potential treatment for patients struggling with the burden of cardiovascular disease. The company has strong support from an experienced leadership team, world-class cardiologists and scientists and has made impressive achievements in a short time in advancing its novel gene therapy approach. We look forward to collaborating with the company as it progresses to the next steps in its clinical program." Al Gianchetti, President and Chief Executive Officer of XyloCor Therapeutics, concluded:"We are delighted to have Jeito Capital join our strong investor syndicate and Board of Directors. The support of this prominent group of life sciences investors is recognition of the progress we have made and confidence in our ability to reach important milestones in the path ahead. With this financing, we can accelerate our clinical development of XC001, completing two Phase 2 clinical trials, and achieve our mission to help people with cardiovascular disease who have no treatment options." About Jeito Capital Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients' access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito Capital has 534 million under management and a rapidly growing portfolio of investments. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States. For more information, please visit www.jeito.life or follow us on LinkedInor X. About XyloCor XyloCor Therapeutics, Inc. is a private, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing potential best-in-class gene therapies to transform outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease. The Company's lead product candidate, XC001, is in clinical development to investigate use for patients with ischemic heart disease for whom there are no treatment options. XyloCor has a second preclinical investigational product, XC002, in discovery stage, being developed for the treatment of patients with cardiac tissue damage from heart attacks. The company, which was co-founded by Ronald Crystal, M.D., and Todd Rosengart, M.D., has an exclusive license from Cornell University. For more information, visit www.xylocor.com. Contacts: Jeito Capital Rafaele Tordjman, Founder & CEO Jessica Fadel, EA Tel: +33 6 33 44 25 47 MaiorICR Healthcare Stephanie Elbaz Mary-Jane Elliott / Davide Salvi / Kris Lam Tel: +33 6 46 05 08 07 Jeito@icrhealthcare.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 1EUR/USD exchange rate: 1 EUR = 1.0492 USD date December 4, 2024 (source: Banque de France) Carterra's latest instrument enables high-throughput small and large-molecule characterization in traditional and AI-driven workflows SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Carterra Inc., the world leader in enabling high-throughput biology, announced today that it has sold and shipped its first Carterra Ultra biosensor platform. Announced in September 2024, the Ultra instrument provides a full complement of small and large molecule applications while reprising gold-standard SPR detection, high-throughput, and the minimal sample requirements of Carterra's LSA and LSAXT systems. The Ultra shipment was the capstone on a record year for Carterra revenues as well as exceptional, double-digit growth. "We understand that spending and investment in drug discovery technologies-especially capital equipment like ours-has been challenged the last couple of years," observes Tim Germann, Carterra's Chief Commercial Officer. "Even so, drug and vaccine discovery groups are focused more than ever on going faster and spending less money to bring life-saving therapies to market-that's exactly what Carterra platforms enable." Capable of characterizing molecules as small as 100 Daltons, initial customers are putting Ultra to work in characterizing molecular glues, PROTACS, DNA-encoded libraries (DELs), kinases, membrane proteins, and ligandability. The Ultra also includes increased speed of analysis, flexible referencing, and new screening software for fragment and small molecule applications. For the first time, investigators can conduct fragment-based lead discovery, small-molecule analysis, and large molecule protein-protein interactions including on- and off-target measurements at industrial scale. Leading biopharma scientists will be showcasing groundbreaking new data generated with the Carterra Ultra platform this month with presentations at SLAS2025 International Conference & Exhibition and Drug Discovery Chemistry 2025, both to be held in San Diego, California. These talks will highlight the platform's impact on advancing fragment and small molecule drug discovery, while also demonstrating how Ultra enables innovative workflows and accelerates discovery timelines. "We are thrilled to ship the Ultra platform ahead of schedule-our second new product in as many years," commented Chris Silva, Vice President of Marketing and Product at Carterra. "Our development teams are hard at work, hitting their stride. I think it's safe to assume that there's plenty more where that came from." Media Contact: Cheri Salazar (408) 594-9400 csalazar@carterra-bio.com About Carterra, Inc. Carterra is a leading provider of innovative technologies designed to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic candidates. Carterra's high throughput LSA, LSAXT, and Ultra platforms for monoclonal antibody (mAb) and small molecule screening and characterization combine patented microfluidics technology with real-time High-Throughput Surface Plasmon Resonance (HT-SPR) and industry-leading analysis and visualization software. These systems deliver up to 100 times the throughput in 10% of the time while using only 1% of the sample compared to existing label-free platforms. The LSAXT and Ultra instruments introduce enhancements to Carterra's flagship product, the LSA, increasing sensitivity and enabling new applications in biotherapeutic discovery and small molecule analysis. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/948a830c-3dc6-46e3-93dd-8e0c88bebde4 PRAG (dpa-AFX) - The Czech Republic's foreign trade surplus decreased in November from a year ago as imports grew faster than exports, data from the Czech Statistical Office showed on Tuesday.The trade surplus decreased to CZK 23.6 billion in November from CZK 27.8 billion in the same month a year ago. In October, the trade surplus was of CZK 13.0 billion.Exports logged an annual growth of 4.4 percent in November, faster than the 3.2 percent gain a month ago. The yearly growth in imports also accelerated to 5.8 percent from 3.6 percent.On a month-on-month basis, seasonally adjusted exports rose 0.5 percent, while imports slid by 0.7 percent.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. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - American Tower Corp. (AMT), a real estate investment trust, announced on Tuesday that it has appointed Eugene Noel as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a newly created global position, with effect from January 13.Noel currently serves as Executive Vice President and President of the U. S. Tower Division.Noel joined the company in 2011 as Senior Vice President, U.S. Tower Operations, and later served as COO of U.S. Tower.Steve Vondran, CEO of American Tower, said: 'The new COO position will be an important addition to my team, enabling us to deliver our industry leading customer service even more effectively and efficiently by accelerating the development and application of new technologies and operating capabilities across our global platform.'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. FDA awards Breakthrough Device Designation to FIRE1's Norm system FIRE1, a leading connected medical device solutions company, today announced the successful completion of a $120 million financing round to accelerate the company's mission to transform the lives of millions of people living with heart failure. FIRE1's Norm heart failure management system offers a groundbreaking approach for patients to manage heart failure. By enabling patients to engage in physician directed self-management, Norm reduces the burden on healthcare staff, making it easier to keep patients healthier and at home. The funding will enable the company to complete a pivotal clinical trial of the Norm system. The round was led by Polaris Partners and Elevage Medical Technologies, joined by new investors Sands Capital and Longitude Capital, and existing investors Andera Partners, Gilde Healthcare, Gimv, the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund, Lightstone Ventures, Medtronic, NEA (New Enterprise Associates), Novo Holdings, and Seventure Partners. "From the beginning, our team has been driven by two core goals: creating a better way to manage heart failure by monitoring fluid volume more directly, and empowering patients with actionable data to improve their lives," said Conor Hanley, CEO and President of FIRE1. "I am thrilled to welcome four more world-class investors to our exceptional syndicate." In addition to the financing, FIRE1 announced that it has received Breakthrough Device Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been accepted into the FDA's Total Product Lifecycle Advisory Program (TAP). The company also welcomed Ellie McGuire, Partner at Polaris Partners, and Michael Wasserman, COO at Elevage Medical Technologies, to its Board of Directors. "FIRE1 has developed a groundbreaking solution to one of healthcare's most pressing challenges: providing scalable ways to manage the disease of chronically ill patients and prevent the need for frequent hospitalizations," said Ms. McGuire. "The Norm heart failure self-management system is a first-of-its-kind innovation that empowers patients to take greater control of their health. We believe this represents a paradigm shift in chronic disease management." Mr. Wasserman added, "FIRE1's unique approach to heart failure-a more direct measure of volume instead of relying on proxies-has generated significant excitement in the clinical community. This differentiated approach positions FIRE1 to unlock substantial market opportunities, and we are proud to support the company on this journey." About FIRE1 Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, FIRE1 is a connected medical device solutions company dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals suffering from chronic diseases. Its mission is to empower millions of people with heart failure to regain their normal lives. The experienced FIRE1 team collaborates with world-leading researchers, clinicians, patients, and payors to alleviate the burden of heart failure. For more information, visit www.fire1foundry.com. About Polaris Partners Polaris Partners has a 25-plus-year history of partnering with repeat entrepreneurs and world-class innovators who are improving the way we live and work. The multibillion-dollar firm manages specialty and diversified funds in healthcare and healthcare-adjacent technology with investments across all stages. Polaris has offices in Boston, San Francisco, New York, and Singapore. Learn more at www.polarispartners.com. About Elevage Medical Technologies Elevage Medical Technologies is a platform established by Patient Square Capital and is dedicated to supporting medical technology companies that can meaningfully improve health outcomes and quality of life for patients. Elevage provides capital along with deep technical, regulatory, and operational expertise to companies ranging from advanced clinical development to commercial acceleration stage. Elevage supports rapidly growing, highly differentiated companies with paradigm shifting technologies and strives to help build industry leading medical technologies. To learn more about Elevage, please visit www.elevagemedical.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107577587/en/ Contacts: Josie Zohny Josie@ClarityQST.com 877-887-7611 Deutsche Post Group's stock displayed mixed performance in recent trading, with initial gains of 1.0% to 34.55 being offset by a subsequent decline to 34.09. This volatility comes amid significant operational changes, including new package shipping regulations set to take effect in January 2025 requiring accurate weight declarations for all shipments. Despite these challenges, the company demonstrated robust financial performance in the latest quarter, achieving revenue growth of 6.16% to reach 20.59 billion. Analysts maintain an optimistic outlook, setting an average price target of 40.64, suggesting substantial upside potential from current levels, though notably below the 52-week high of 45.67 recorded in January 2024. Union Actions Threaten Operations The company faces mounting pressure from labor relations as the DPVKOM union initiates a 24-hour strike action. The industrial action, primarily affecting locations in Eastern Germany, is projected to delay approximately 30,000 parcels and letters. Union representatives are demanding a minimum 8% wage increase and a 350 monthly base salary enhancement, citing the company's sustained positive economic performance as justification for their demands. Ad Fresh Deutsche Post information released. What's the impact for investors? Our latest independent report examines recent figures and market trends. Read our updated Deutsche Post analysis... Corsicana, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - 8:31 AM EST - Birchtech Corp. (TSX: BCHT) (OTCQB: BCHT) ("Birchtech" or the "Company"), a leading environmental technologies firm, announced today the election of Mitzi H. Coogler, CPA to its Board of Directors. Ms. Coogler was elected as a new director at the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on December 30, 2024. "We are extremely pleased to welcome Mitzi Coogler to the Birchtech Board," stated Richard MacPherson, Chief Executive Officer of Birchtech. "Mitzi's vast experience in finance and accounting makes her a strong addition to our Board that will serve the Company well as we enter an exciting new phase of the Company's growth and development, including the expectation to pursue a listing on a major U.S. exchange during 2025. "Having worked with Mitzi in various Company-related projects since 2018, I believe her professional relationships will be invaluable to Birchtech's corporate growth initiatives. We look forward to her contributions as we continue to execute our growth strategy, drive profitability and seek to build value for Birchtech shareholders over the long term. We are well positioned entering into 2025 with strong corporate direction as we seek to uplist to a major U.S. exchange." Ms. Coogler is a certified public accountant and has maintained an accounting practice since 2014 in Northport, Alabama specializing in management support and guidance for closely held businesses. Since November 2023, she has served as Chief Financial Officer of JT Harrison Construction Co., Inc., located in Northport, Alabama, which provides design, general contracting and construction management services. Prior experience includes Chief Executive Officer of Southeast Cancer Network, Inc., Chief Financial Officer of closely held businesses wholly or majority owned by Dr. Scott Drummond (deceased), as well as shareholder/employee at accounting firm Echols, Coogler & Associates, P.C. Ms. Coogler received her B.S. in accounting from University of Alabama in 1993. About Birchtech Corp. Birchtech Corp. (TSX: BCHT) (OTCQB: BCHT), formerly Midwest Energy Emissions Corp., is an environmental technology firm that promotes cleaner water and air with highly effective, affordable, and sustainable business solutions. Birchtech's separate operating divisions each offer innovative, efficient technologies addressing critical industry concerns. With over 40 patents, the Company's ME2C Environmental division has provided patented SEA sorbent technologies for mercury emissions capture to the coal-fired utility sector since 2008. WE2C Environmental is focused on developing new, disruptive technologies for PFAS/PFOS removal from potable (drinking) water. New and innovative water purification technologies are under development to meet the growing demand for sustainable water solutions worldwide. Learn more at http://www.birchtech.com. Safe Harbor Statement With the exception of historical information contained in this press release, content herein may contain "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor Provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 or forward-looking information under applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements are generally identified by using words such as "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "expect," "intend," "will," and similar expressions, but these words are not the exclusive means of identifying forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this release include statements relating to expected developments and growth in Birchtech's business. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. In addition, this release contains time-sensitive information that reflects management's best analysis only as of the date of this release. Birchtech does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events, information or circumstances that arise after the date of this release. Further information concerning issues that could materially affect financial performance or other forward-looking statements contained in this release can be found in Birchtech's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or Canadian securities regulators. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236213 SOURCE: Birchtech Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Aftermath Silver Ltd. (TSXV: AAG) (OTCQX: AAGFF) (the "Company" or "Aftermath Silver") is pleased to provide an update on its Berenguela silver-copper-manganese project located in the Department of Puno, in southern central Peru (the "Project" or "Berenguela"). The Company has an option (the "Option") to acquire a 100% interest in the Project through binding agreements with SSR Mining Inc. ("SSR") (see AAG news release dated October 21, 2020 for further details regarding the original option with SSR) and EMX Royalty Corporation ("EMX") following EMX's assumption of certain interests contained in Aftermath's agreement with SSR. The Company has made the third property payment 5 months ahead of the May 2025 due date. In return, EMX agreed to reduce the amount due to US$2.9-million. Ralph Rushton, President and CEO of Aftermath commented: "Aftermath would once again like to thank David Cole and the team at EMX for their flexibility in agreeing to adjust the terms of the Berenguela agreement. With the latest payment made, our focus now is on completion of the Berenguela PEA. We will also be revising the mineral resource estimate for Berenguela incorporating the results of the latest round of in fill drilling." EMX's interest in Berenguela resulted from EMX's acquisition of a portfolio of royalty interests and payments from SSR and certain of its subsidiaries (see EMX news releases dated July 29 and October 21, 2021). Aftermath Silver's payment obligations, which arise pursuant to a definitive acquisition agreement, originally executed with SSR totalling US$13-million and other consideration to acquire a 100% interest in the Project, are summarized below (as now amended). The following represent the remaining payments to EMX; US$3-million cash to be paid on the May 15, 2025 (Paid); US$3.25-million cash to be paid on the sixth anniversary of the initial closing date (i.e. November 2026); A sliding-scale NSR royalty on all mineral production from the Project for the life of mine commencing at the declaration of commercial production, and based on the following: 1.0% NSR royalty on all mineral production when the silver market price is up to and including US$25 per ounce; 1.25% NSR royalty on all mineral production when the silver market price is over US$25 per ounce and when the copper market price is above US$2 per pound. Qualified person Michael Parker, a fellow of the AusIMM and a non-independent director of Aftermath, is a non-independent qualified person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Parker has reviewed the technical content of this news release and consents to the information provided in the form and context in which it appears. About EMX Royalty Corp. 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 seewww.EMXroyalty.com for more information.' About Aftermath Silver Ltd. Aftermath Silver is a leading Canadian junior exploration company focused on silver and aims to deliver shareholder value through the discovery, acquisition and development of quality silver projects in stable jurisdictions. Aftermath has developed a pipeline of projects at various stages of advancement. The company's projects have been selected based on growth and development potential. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236251 SOURCE: Aftermath Silver Ltd. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Sitka Gold Corp. (TSXV: SIG) (FSE: 1RF) (OTCQB: SITKF) ("Sitka" or the "Company") is pleased to summarize the highly successful 2024 exploration season and announce final results from the 2024 diamond drilling program conducted at its road accessible, 431 square kilometre RC Gold Project ("RC Gold" or the "Project") located approximately 100 kilometres east of Dawson City in Yukon's prolific Tombstone Gold Belt. The mineralized system at the Blackjack deposit continues to grow well beyond the initial resource announced in January 2023 with the impressive results from the drill campaigns conducted in 2023 and 2024. The Company completed 9,264 metres of drilling this year focused on expanding the Blackjack zone in addition to completing the first ever diamond drilling of the Rhosgobel and Pukelman intrusions with significant gold mineralization intersected in all targeted intrusions. Drill results continue to significantly expand the Blackjack gold deposit area, intersecting strong gold mineralization near surface, at depth, and to the south in holes DDRCCC-24-069 to 072. Initial drilling at the Pukelman intrusion has also returned promising gold values from DDRCCC-24-073 and 074, the first two diamond drill holes completed by Sitka (see Table 2). Select assay highlights from 2024 diamond drilling at RC Gold: 191.0 m of 1.16 g/t gold from 327 m in DDRCCC-24-057 including 54.6 m of 2.54 g/t gold from 453.4 m 154.0 m of 1.47 g/t gold from 354.0 m in DDRCCC-24-058 including 37.0 m of 3.07 g/t gold from 449.0 m 290.5 m of 1.10 g/t gold from 236.0 m in DDRCCC-062 including 105.0 m of 1.68 g/t gold from 421.6 m 99.2 m of 1.01 g/t gold from 448.5 m in DDRCCC-24-067 678.1 m of 1.04 g/t gold from 4.4 m in DDRCCC-24-068 including 93.0 m of 2.57 g/t gold from 589.5 m 85.0 m of 1.12 g/t gold from 433 m in DDRCCC-24-072 (this release) 119.0 m of 1.05 g/t gold from 30.0 m in DDRGCC-24-001 including 37.9 m of 2.05 g/t gold from 98.5 m "Our work at RC Gold this past year continues to demonstrate the vast potential of this district-scale property to host large, economic gold resources," said Cor Coe, Director and CEO of Sitka Gold. "Results from 2024 have highlighted the persistent and strong gold values present at several targets across this project with numerous occurrences of visible gold observed and several greater than +100 gram-metre intervals intercepted in multiple drill holes across the Blackjack target and in our initial drilling of the Rhosgobel and Pukelman intrusions (see Figure 1 and Table 1). Drilling at RC Gold has now confirmed potential economic grade gold mineralization exists within 4 of the known gold bearing intrusions that have been investigated to date at the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex, namely the Blackjack, Eiger, Rhosgobel and Pukelman targets, showcasing exceptional potential for this gold system to host multiple gold deposits of significant size and grade. Drilling also significantly grew potential tonnage at our Blackjack gold deposit, producing some exceptional results including our best intercept to date from Hole 68 which returned 678.1 metres of 1.04 grams per tonne gold. Blackjack has produced many impressive drill intersections since our discovery there at the end of 2021, including twenty two (22), +100 gram-metre intersections, 13 of which are outside of the initial resource area highlighting the growing size and grade potential of this gold deposit (see Table 3). With a fully funded 30,000 metre drill program planned for 2025, we eagerly look forward to building on the success of the past year as we aim to unlock additional value at RC Gold for our shareholders." Table 1: Intercepts of over 100 gram-metres from intrusive targets drilled at RC Gold Hole ID From (m) Interval (m)* Gold (g/t) Gram-metres (g-m) BLACKJACK ZONE DDRCCC-20-002 65.0 231.0 0.61 140.9 DDRCCC-21-021 surface 220.1 1.17 257.4 Including 120.0 50.5 2.08 DDRCCC-22-022 46.0 273.0 0.52 142.0 Including 253.0 62.0 1.21 DDRCCC-22-023 4.2 205.8 1.00 205.8 Including 46.0 91.0 1.61 DDRCCC-22-024 4.5 107.5 1.44 154.8 Including 16.0 66.0 2.11 DDRCCC-22-025 19.0 349.0 0.71 247.8 DDRCCC-22-030 2.8 145.2 0.91 132.1 Including 2.8 33.8 1.42 DDRCCC-22-038 75.0 399.5 0.64 255.7 DDRCCC-22-040 8.0 199.5 1.27 253.4 including 8.0 90.0 2.01 DDRCCC-23-041 200.0 292 1.00 292.0 including 281.8 70.2 2.09 DDRCCC-23-042 273.7 215.1 0.99 215.1 including 381.5 30.7 2.19 DDRCCC-23-043 4.0 449.0 0.74 332.3 DDRCCC-23-044 107.2 161.8 0.71 114.9 DDRCCC-23-046 134.0 56.0 1.23 and 326.1 4.3 33.10 142.3 including 327.8 1.2 108.0 DDRCCC-23-047 190.0 219.0 1.36 286.9 Including 233.0 126.0 2.04 DDRCCC-24-057 327.0 191.0 1.16 221.6 including 453.8 54.6 2.54 including 459.0 11.0 5.80 DDRCCC-24-058 157.0 351.0 0.85 298.4 including 354.0 154.0 1.47 including 449.0 37.0 3.07 DDRCCC-24-061 127.5 206.0 0.64 131.8 DDRCCC-24-062 236.0 290.5 1.10 319.6 including 421.6 105.0 1.68 DDRCCC-24-067 448.5 99.2 1.01 100.2 DDRCCC-24-068 4.4 678.1 1.04 705.2 including 589.5 93.0 2.57 including 589.5 5.5 17.60 DDRCCC-24-072 19.5 170.0 0.60 102.0 including 24.0 9.4 1.17 Including 96.5 1.7 7.13 and 433.0 85.0 1.12 RHOSGOBEL DDRGCC-24-001 9.1 164.8 0.82 135.0 including 30.0 119.0 1.05 including 98.5 37.9 2.05 DDRGCC-24-002 97.0 173.3 0.60 104.0 including 105.0 28.4 1.37 including 167.1 17.4 1.12 PUKELMAN DDRCCC-24-074 53.0 343.0 0.34 117.0 including 98.0 9.1 1.10 including 230.0 6.0 1.09 including 250.0 10.0 1.02 including 336.0 8.0 1.08 EIGER DDRCCC-20-003 5.0 297.0 0.37 110.0 DDRCCC-20-004 5.9 273.1 0.41 112.0 including 131.9 141.1 0.61 DDRCCC-21-009 76.0 359.5 0.41 147.0 including 76.0 72.0 0.72 DDRCCC-21-010 39.0 402.5 0.40 161.0 including 136.5 37.8 1.03 SADDLE DDRCCC-23-054 surface 84.0 1.21 102.0 including 37.0 51.1 1.52 *Intervals are drilled core length, as insufficient drilling has been undertaken to determine true widths at this time Table 2: Summary of significant drill hole results from this release Hole From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) DDRCCC-24-069 122.5 126.0 3.5 1.16 and 146.0 148.0 2.0 5.45 DDRCCC-24-070 2.3 82.9 80.6 0.93 Including 2.3 54.5 52.2 1.10 Including 53.0 54.5 1.5 4.84 And 80.2 82.9 2.7 3.24 DDRCCC-24-071 221.4 258.9 37.6 1.56 Including 241.5 256.0 14.5 3.43 Including 241.5 243.0 1.5 9.60 And 254.3 256.0 1.7 17.65 And 491.5 601.5 110.0 0.68 Including 491.5 522.0 30.5 0.71 Including 519.0 522.0 3.0 3.72 And 570.0 601.5 31.5 1.46 Including 588.5 591.0 2.5 5.02 DDRCCC-24-072 13.5 724.0 710.5 0.51 Including 19.5 189.5 170.0 0.60 Including 24.0 33.4 9.4 1.17 Including 96.5 98.2 1.7 7.13 Including 164.0 165.3 1.3 14.30 Including 175.0 194.0 19.0 1.15 Including 180.5 186.5 6.0 2.77 Including 314.7 337.0 22.3 1.04 Including 379.3 386.4 7.1 1.47 Including 433.0 518.0 85.0 1.12 Including 539.7 542.0 2.3 6.79 Including 636.5 643.7 7.2 2.96 Including 637.6 638.8 1.2 14.10 Including 677.8 699.5 21.7 0.92 Including 677.8 679.0 1.2 7.77 Including 716.9 724.0 7.1 1.09 DDRCCC-24-073 42.0 88.0 46.0 0.51 Including 48.0 59.7 11.7 1.04 Including 50.0 50.9 0.9 3.96 Including 58.5 59.7 1.2 3.39 And 345.0 362.0 17.0 1.07 Including 351.9 354.1 2.1 3.00 DDRCCC-24-074 98.0 141.7 43.8 0.50 Including 98.0 107.0 9.1 1.10 And 230.0 260.0 30.0 0.65 Including 230.0 236.0 6.0 1.09 And 250.0 260.0 10.0 1.02 And 278.0 279.5 1.5 3.79 And 321.0 390.0 69.0 0.50 Including 336.0 344.0 8.0 1.08 And 388.0 390.0 2.0 3.18 *Intervals are drilled core length as insufficient drilling has been completed at this time to calculate true widths. Totals may not sum precisely due to rounding. Figure 1: Examples of instances of visible gold observed from various intrusive targets that were drilled in 2024. Visible gold was observed in numerous drill holes completed this past year at the Blackjack zone, from near surface to a depth of 679.8 m, and in the first ever diamond drill holes at the Rhosgobel and Pukelman intrusions located approximately 5 km south and 2.5 km southeast respectively from the Blackjack deposit, demonstrating the scale and robust nature of gold mineralization present at the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_001full.jpg 2024 Exploration Drilling Highlights Blackjack Zone Drilling in 2024 was successful in expanding the limits of the Blackjack zone beyond the initial resource area of the Blackjack deposit. The drilling in 2024 expanded the gold mineralization at the Blackjack zone approximately 250 m to the south-east, and over 200 m down dip from the current resource demonstrating the robust nature of the Blackjack Zone. Drilling in 2024 also produced several of the highest grade intersections into the Blackjack zone, including Hole 68 that intersected 678.1 m of 1.04 g/t gold including a 93.0 m interval of 2.57 g/t gold starting at 589.5 m depth. Deep high-grade mineralization in Hole 57, including an interval of 11.0 m of 5.80 g/t gold within 89.0 m of 2.03 g/t gold starting at 419.0 m, was another highlight from this year's drilling. Two drill holes were completed to over 700 m depth in 2024 and indicate a higher-grade mineralized conduit within a broader mineralized corridor persists to depth. Additional drilling at depth is needed to more precisely model the shape and angle that the high-grade mineralization follows and target the source of the Blackjack mineralized system. Drilling also focused on expanding the zone to the south-east following the trend of the intrusion. Hole 67 intersected mineralization over its entire length including 99.2 m of 1.10 g/t gold while hole DDRCCC-24-071 has intersected 37.6 m of 1.56 g/t gold including subintervals of 14.5 m of 3.43 g/t gold and 1.7 m of 17.65 g/t gold, and an additional intersection of 110.0 m of 0.68 g/t gold including 31.5 m of 1.46 g/t gold with a high-grade subinterval of 2.5 m of 5.02 g/t gold. The zone remains strong to the south-east and additional drilling will be conducted to define the mineralization in this direction. Additional drilling is also required to the north-east where mineralization remains open towards the Saddle zone located 450 m beyond the Blackjack resource, where drilling in 2023 intersected 84.0 m of 1.21 g/t gold in Hole 54. Drilling to date at Blackjack has produced twenty two (22), +100 gram-metre drill hole intersections, 13 of which are outside of the initial resource area highlighting the growing size and grade potential of this gold deposit. Table 3: +100 gram-metre intersections from diamond drilling at the Blackjack Zone 9 Drill Holes Included in Initial Resource Estimate 13 Drill Holes Not Included in Initial Resource Estimate Hole ID From (m) Interval (m)* Gold (g/t) Gram-metres (g-m) Hole ID From (m) Interval (m)* Gold (g/t) Gram-metres (g-m) DDRCCC-20-002 65 231 0.61 140.9 DDRCCC-23-041 200 292 1 292 DDRCCC-21-021 surface 220 1.17 257.4 including 234 75 2.05 Including 120 50.5 2.08 DDRCCC-23-042 273.7 215.1 1 215.1 DDRCCC-22-022 46 273 0.52 142 including 381.5 30.7 2.19 Including 253 62 1.21 DDRCCC-23-043 4 449 0.74 332.3 DDRCCC-22-023 surface 205.8 1.01 207.9 DDRCCC-23-044 107.2 161.8 0.71 114.9 Including 46 91 1.61 DDRCCC-23-046 134 56 1.23 DDRCCC-22-024 4.5 107.5 1.44 154.8 and 326.1 4.3 33.1 142.3 Including 16 66 2.11 including 327.8 1.2 108 DDRCCC-22-025 19 349 0.71 247.8 DDRCCC-23-047 190 219 1.31 286.9 DDRCCC-22-030 surface 146.6 0.9 131.9 Including 233 124.8 2.01 Including surface 33.8 1.42 DDRCCC-24-057 327 191 1.16 221.6 DDRCCC-22-038 73 401.5 0.63 252.9 including 419 89 2.03 DDRCCC-22-040 8 201 1.26 253.3 including 459 11 5.8 including 8 90 2.04 DDRCCC-24-058 157 351 0.85 298.4 DDRCCC-24-061 127.5 206 0.64 131.8 DDRCCC-24-062 236 290.5 1.1 319.6 including 421.6 105 1.68 DDRCCC-24-067 448.5 99.2 1.01 100.2 DDRCCC-24-068 4.4 678.1 1.04 705.2 including 589.5 93 2.57 including 589.5 5.5 17.6 DDRCCC-24-072 19.5 170 0.60 102 including 24 9.4 1.17 Including 96.5 1.7 7.13 and 433 85 1.12 *Intervals are drilled core length, as insufficient drilling has been undertaken to determine true widths at this time Rhosgobel Intrusion The first two diamond drill holes drilled at the Rhosgobel intrusion both produced > +100 g-m intersections confirming the potential for another reduced intrusion related-gold deposit at RC Gold. Historical shallow reverse circulation drilling conducted in the 1990's identified widespread gold mineralization at the Rhosgobel intrusion (see news release dated November 25, 2024) while these two diamond drill holes demonstrated the mineralization persists to depths of at least 300 m (see news release dated November 25, 2024). Drill holes DDRCRG-24-001 and 002 intersected 164.8 metres of 0.82 g/t gold from 9.0 m with a subinterval of 11.5 m of 4.32 g/t gold, and 173.3 m of 0.60 g/t gold from 97.0 m with a subinterval of 12.4 m grading 2.43 g/t gold respectively. The gold mineralization at Rhosgobel is hosted in sheeted quartz and quartz tourmaline veins cutting the feldspar megacrystic quartz monzonite intrusion that is a similar composition to the intrusion which hosts the Blackjack deposit located 5 kilometres to the north. Diamond drilling producing oriented drill core has provided Sitka with valuable information on the controls and orientation of gold mineralization and structures in this new discovery confirming the geological model developed from exploration within other areas of the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex. The next phase of drilling will test the model that indicates a large east-west trending mineralized zone as indicated by the current diamond drill results, the 1.5 by 2.0 kilometre gold-in-soil anomaly with values up to 500 ppb gold (see news release dated November 25, 2024), historical shallow reverse circulation drilling, and recent geological mapping and sampling results. Pukelman Intrusion The final two drill holes of 2024 targeted the Pukelman intrusion which previously had only two shallow reverse circulation drill holes completed in 1992. The first two diamond drill holes in this intrusion both intersected widespread gold mineralization with DDRCCC24-074 returning 343.0 m grading 0.34 g/t gold including three subintervals which returned 43.8 m of 0.50 g/t gold, 30.0 m of 0.65 g/t gold and 69.0 m of 0.50 g/t gold and DDRCCC24-073 returning 154.0 m grading 0.31 g/t gold from 18.0 m including 46.0 m of 0.51 g/t gold and also 17.0 m of 1.07 g/t gold from 345 m (see Figure 8). The Pukelman intrusion is exposed over approximately 1.2 by 0.6 km and the drilling was completed on the margin of a 1.6 x 1.2 km gold-in-soil anomaly where existing road infrastructure allowed late season access (see Figure 9). The drilling intersected abundant sheeted quartz veining within feldspar megacrysitc quartz monzonite of similar composition to the intrusion hosting the Blackjack deposit and the Rhosgobel discovery located approximately 2 km north and 3 km south respectively. Oriented diamond drill core confirmed Sitka's geological modelling of controls on mineralization and have provided valuable information for additional drilling that will vector to the higher grade areas of the intrusion as indicated by the soil geochemistry, geological mapping and surface sampling. Historically exploration near the Pukelman intrusion focused just beyond the southern boundary of the exposed intrusion approximately 500 m south of the current drilling in the "Contact zone". Historical drilling in the Contact zone returned values up to 20.46 g/t gold over 10.7 m and 1.20 g/t gold over 43.4 m within sheeted veining hosted in metasediments and intrusive dykes. The discovery holes drilled within the Pukelman intrusion in 2024 along with historical drilling in the Contact zone outside of the intrusion and the expanded gold-in-soil geochemical anomaly underlying the area present a large target for the potential discovery of additional economic resources. Click HERE for a table of all significant assay results from 2024 drill holes completed at RC Gold. Figure 2: Plan map showing multiple priority target areas across the recently consolidated Clear Creek Intrusive Complex with gold in soil geochemistry. Drilling in 2024 focused on testing multiple targets including resource expansion at Blackjack and the first diamond drilling of the Rhosgobel and Pukelman intrusions within this large mineralized system. All of the areas tested in 2024 intersected +100 g-m gold in drill holes indicating potentially economic reduced intrusion-related gold mineralization. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_002full.jpg 2024 Regional Exploration Highlights Sitka completed regional exploration on targets outside of the Clear Creek Intrusive Complex with a team of geologists from Sitka and Archer Cathro, a highly experienced Yukon based consulting company. Regional work was directed at assessing the potential of other known reduced intrusion related gold systems within the 431 square kilometre land package comprising the RC Gold Project. Geological mapping, rock and soil sampling were conducted and the potential of the May-Qu, Mahtin and Alp target areas to host potential economic deposits were enhanced. A zone of intrusion hosted sheeted quartz veins was expanded to over 400 m wide in the May-Qu target area with results from grab sampling returning trace to 31.7 g/t gold. The Mahtin target produced grab samples samples from trace to 11.05 g/t gold in calc-silicate skarn peripheral to the intrusion and soil geochemistry in the Alp target identified and area 850 m in length anomalous in gold, arsenic, bismuth and tellurium suggesting an as yet undiscovered, buried Tombstone Suite intrusion (see news release dated December 2, 2024). Drill Hole Descriptions for DDRCCC-24-069 to 073 Blackjack DDRCCC-24-069 Drill hole DDRCCC-24-069 was drilled at an azimuth of 035 degrees and a dip of -75 degrees. The hole remained in metasediments (biotite schist) to 202.1 m intersected by a large fault zone from 57.0-120.0 m. The hole was abandoned in the fault zone and did not reach the planned depth. Local intersections of gold mineralization were hosted in quartz veins with arsenopyrite within the metasediment. The best result returned from DDRCCC-24-069 was 2.0 m of 5.40 g/t Au from 146.0 m. DDRCCC-24-070 Drill hole DDRCCC-24-070 was drilled at an azimuth of 030 degrees and a dip of -45 degrees to a final length of 256.0 m. The hole intersected several zones of mineralized quartz monzonite and feldspar porphyry cut by abundant 1-2 cm sheeted quartz-arsenopyrite +/- scheelite veins within weakly to locally moderately altered metasediments (biotite schist). Two lamprophyre dykes were intersected at 63.5-64.5 m and 138.3-143.8 m with a large fault zone (143.1-157.0 m) cutting the footwall of the second lamprophyre. Visible gold was observed at 30.0 m. DDRCCC-24-070 demonstrates that the mineralization encountered in DDRCCC-22-025 (221.0 m of 1.01 g/t Au - see press release dated June 13, 2022) extends to surface, with 80.6 m of 0.93 g/t from 2.3 m, including 52.2 m from of 1.10 g/t Au from 2.3 m and 1.5 m of 4.84 g/t Au from 53.0 m. DDRCCC-24-071 Drill hole DDRCCC-24-071 was drilled from the southwest of the south saddle intrusion towards the northeast at an azimuth of 035 degrees and a dip of -50 degrees. The hole intersected several zones of sheeted quartz-sulphide vein hosted mineralization within feldspar megacrystic and vari-textured quartz monzonite throughout its entire length. Strong gold mineralization was encountered within several sections of the hole including 37.6 m of 1.56 g/t Au from 221.1 m, including 14.5 m of 3.43 g/t Au from 241.5 m and 1.7 m of 17.65 g/t Au from 254.3 m, and 110.0 m of 0.68 g/t from 491.5 m and 31.5 m of 1.46 g/t Au from 570 m including 2.5 m of 5.02 g/t Au from 588.5 m. DDRCC-24-072 DDRCCC-24-072 was drilled from the same location as DDRCCC-24-068 with a similar azimuth of 100 degrees but a shallower dip of -65 degrees. The hole intersected dominantly megacrystic quartz monzonite (MCQM) to approximately 200 m, metasediment until approximately 275 m, then a dyke swarm of MCQM within the metasediments until the end of the hole at 757.4 m (see Figure 5). Sheeted quartz veins locally hosting arsenopyrite, scheelite and bismuthinite and visible gold cross-cut both the MCQM and the metasediments, with generally a higher density of narrower veins in the MCQM and a lower density of thicker veins in the metasediments. A 4.2 m quartz vein intersected in metasediments at 636.5 m containing abundant visible gold is the thickest quartz vein encountered in drilling to date, demonstrating that significant gold mineralization can occur in the host metasedimentary rock at the Blackjack Deposit (see Figures 1 and 7). Gold mineralization occurred throughout the length of DDRCCC-24-072, with the 710.5 m interval from 13.5 m returning 0.51 g/t Au (see Table 2). Higher grade intervals within the hole included 1.3 m of 14.3 g/t Au from 164.0 m and 85.0 m of 1.12 g/t Au from 433.0 m, including 1.12 m of 14.10 g/t Au in the 4.2 m quartz vein at 637.6 m. Figure 3: Examples of visible gold observed in Holes 71 and 72 at the Blackjack zone and in Hole 73 at the Pukelman intrusion. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_003full.jpg Figure 4: Plan map of drilling at the Blackjack Deposit showing the location of holes DDRCCC-24-069 to -072 (this release). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_004full.jpg Figure 5: Cross section of DDRCCC-24-072 showing the mineralized intersection. Hole 72 was mineralized over its entire length and was drilled to a depth of 757.43 metres. Hole 72 is offset from Hole 68 by approximately 90 m at depth and is interpreted to have intersected a broader gold mineralized envelope within metasediments and intrusive dyke swarms peripheral to the high-grade core of mineralization intersected in Hole 68. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_005full.jpg Figure 6: Drill core from DDRCCC-24-071 showing strongly altered metasediments intruded by MCQM and finer grained granodiorite dykes containing part of the interval of 37.6 m of 1.56 g/t Au from 221.1 m, including 14.5 m of 3.43 g/t Au from 241.5 m. Note the visible gold occurrence at 242.0 m. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_006full.jpg Figure 7: Drill core from DDRCC-24-072 showing the 4.2 m quartz vein intersected in metasediments at 636.5 m and the interval of 1.12 m of 14.10 g/t Au at 637.6 m. Note the abundant instances of bismuthanite and visible gold. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_007full.jpg Click HERE for additional cross sections of DDRCCC-24-069 to 071 Pukelman Intrusion Drill Results DDRCCC-24-073 and DDRCCC-24-074 were drilled from the same site to test sheeted quartz vein mineralization in the Pukelman intrusion where historical reverse circulation drill hole CCRC-92-1 returned 10.0 metres of 1.02 g/t Au and 4.0 metres of 1.55 g/t Au (see Figures 8 and 9). The holes were located approximately 500 metres north of the Contact Zone where 2,368 metres of historical shallow reverse circulation and diamond drilling had returned broad zones of gold mineralization such as 43.4 metres of 1.2 g/t Au as well as intervals of higher-grade mineralization such as 10.7 metres of 20.46 g/t Au including 1.52 metres of 137.5 g/t Au (see news release dated June 24, 2024). DDRCCC-24-073 was drilled at an azimuth of 190 degrees and a dip of -55 degrees to a total length of 406.3 metres while DDRCCC-24-074 was drilled at the same azimuth with a -75 degree dip to a final length of 437.4 m. Both holes intersected megacrystic quartz monzonite similar to that hosting mineralization at the Blackjack Zone throughout their entire lengths. Mineralization consisted of 1-2 cm sheeted quartz veins (1-2 per several metres up to 5-8 per metre) with, minor scheelite, pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite, and pyrite. Gold mineralization occurred throughout the lengths of DDRCCC-24-073 and DDRCCC-24-074 and visible gold was noted in both holes (see Tables 1, 2 and Figures 3, 8 and 9). Near surface mineralization in DDRCC-24-073 included 46.0 m of 0.51 g/t Au from 42.0 m including 11.7 m of 1.04 g/t Au from 48.0 m while deeper mineralization included 17.0 m of 1.07 g/t from 345.0 m. Significant intervals is DDRCCC-24-074 were 43.8 m of 0.50 g/t Au from 98.0 m; 10.0 m of 1.02 g/t from 250.0 m; 8 m of 1.08 g/t Au from 336 m and 2.0 m of 3.18 g/t Au from 388.0 m. Figure 8: Cross section of DDRCCC-24-073 and 074, the first diamond drill holes completed at the Pukelman intrusion. These initial drill holes intersected widespread gold mineralization over their entire lengths with visible gold observed in both drill holes. Historical reverse circulation drilling to the south in the Contact zone intersected widespread gold mineralization in metasediments adjacent to the intrusion. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_008full.jpg Figure 9: Plan map showing the location of the first diamond drill holes completed within the Pukelman intrusion DDRCCC-24-073 and 074. The holes were collared at the margin of the gold-in-soil anomaly where existing road access allowed for late season drilling. Additional drilling will be conducted to target higher-grade areas of the intrusion and the adjacent Contact zone where rock samples have returned up to 67.9 g/t gold. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_009full.jpg Figure 10: Drill core from DDRCCC-24-073 showing the most of the interval of 11.7 m of 1.04 g/t Au from 48.0 m within MCQM. Gold mineralization is hosted in narrow sheeted quartz veins. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6144/236266_24189f919499e864_010full.jpg Quality Assurance/Quality Control On receipt from the drill site, the HTW/NTW-sized drill core was systematically logged for geological attributes, photographed and sampled at Sitka's core logging facility. Sample lengths as small as 0.3 m were used to isolate features of interest, otherwise a default 2 m downhole sample length was used. Each sample is identified by a unique sample tag number which is placed in the bag containing the core to be assayed. Core was cut in half lengthwise along a predetermined line, with one-half (the same half, consistently) collected for analysis and one-half stored as a record. Standard reference materials, blanks and duplicate samples were inserted by Sitka personnel at regular intervals into the sample stream. Bagged samples were placed in secure bins to ensure integrity during transport. They were delivered by Sitka personnel or a contract expeditor to ALS Laboratories' preparatory facility in Whitehorse, Yukon, with analyses completed in North Vancouver. ALS is accredited to ISO 17025:2005 UKAS ref. 4028 for its laboratory analysis. Samples were crushed by ALS to over 70 per cent passing below two millimetres and split using a riffle splitter. One-thousand-gram splits were pulverized to over 85 per cent passing below 75 microns. Gold determinations are by fire assay with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) finish on 50 g subsamples of the prepared pulp (ALS code: Au-ICP-22). Any sample returning over 10 g/t Au was re-analyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50 g subsample (ALS code: Au-GRA21). In addition, a 51-element analysis was performed on a 0.5 g subsample of the prepared pulps by an aqua regia digestion followed by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) finish (ALS code: ME-MS41). About the flagship RC Gold Project The RC Gold Project consists of a 431 square kilometre contiguous district-scale land package located in the heart of Yukon's Tombstone Gold Belt. The project is located approximately 100 kilometres east of Dawson City, which has a 5,000 foot paved runway, and is accessed via a secondary gravel road from the Klondike Highway which is usable year-round and is an approximate 2 hour drive from Dawson City. It is the largest consolidated land package strategically positioned mid-way between the Eagle Gold Mine and the past producing Brewery Creek Gold Mine. On January 19, 2023 Sitka Gold announced an Initial Mineral Resource Estimate prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") guidelines for the RC Gold Property of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1). The road accessible, pit constrained Mineral Resource is classified as inferred and is contained in two zones: The Blackjack and Eiger deposits with 900,000 ounces of gold grading 0.83 g/t and 440,000 ounces of gold grading 0.68 g/t respectively. Both of these deposits are at/near surface, are potentially open pit minable and amenable to heap leaching, with initial bottle roll tests indicating that the gold is not refractory and has high gold recoveries of up to 94% with minimal NaCN consumption (see News Release July 13, 2022). The Mineral Resource estimate is presented in the following table at a base case cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au: RC Gold Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate Blackjack Zone Eiger Zone Combined Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's 0.20 35,798 0.80 921 32,523 0.45 471 68,321 0.63 1,391 0.25 33,743 0.83 900 27,362 0.50 440 61,105 0.68 1,340 0.30 31,282 0.88 885 22,253 0.55 393 53,535 0.74 1,279 0.35 29,065 0.92 860 17,817 0.60 344 46,882 0.80 1,203 0.40 26,975 0.96 833 14,506 0.66 308 41,481 0.86 1,140 Notes 1. Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of January 19, 2023. Mineral Resources are classified using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards. 2. The cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au is believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit mining and processing. 3. Mineral resources are constrained by an optimised pit shell using the following assumptions: US$1800/oz Au price; a 45 pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.00 per tonne; processing costs of US$8.00 per tonne; G&A of US$1.50/t. 4. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. 5. Totals may not sum due to rounding. To date, 72 diamond drill holes have been drilled into this system by the Company for a total of approximately 25,136 metres. The initial resource was based on 11,630 m of drilling in 34 holes with 22 holes totaling 7,492 m in the Blackjack deposit. Drilling since the initial resource release has focused on expanding the Blackjack resource with an additional 12-holes totaling 5,212 drilled in 2023 and 15-holes totaling 9,264 m to date in 2024. Other targets drilled to date include the Saddle zone, Josephine zone and the Rhosgobel zone. The resource expansion drilling in 2023 at Blackjack produced results of up to 219.0 m of 1.34 g/t gold Including 124.8 m of 2.01 g/t gold and 55.0 m of 3.11 g/t gold in drill hole DDRCCC-23-047 (see news release dated September 26, 2023) and in 2024 results of up to 678.1 metres of 1.04 g/t gold starting from surface in DDRCCC-24-068, Including 409.5 metres of 1.36 g/t gold, 93.0 metres of 2.57 g/t gold and 5.5 metres of 17.59 g/t gold (see news release dated October 21, 2024). (1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory RC Gold Deposit Model Exploration on the Property has mainly focused on identifying an intrusion-related gold system ("IRGS"). The property is within the Tombstone Gold Belt which is the prominent host to IRGS deposits within the Tintina Gold Province in Yukon and Alaska. Notable deposits from the belt include: Fort Knox Mine in Alaska with current Proven and Probable Reserves of 230 million tonnes at 0.3 g/t Au (2.471 million ounces; Sims 2018)(1); Eagle Gold Mine with current Measured and Indicated Resources of 233 million tonnes at a grade of 0.57 g/t Au at the Eagle Main Zone (4.303 million ounces; Harvey et al, 2022)(2); the Brewery Creek deposit with current Indicated Mineral Resource of 22.2 million tonnes at a gold grade of 1.11 g/t (0.789 million ounces; Hulse et al. 2020)(3); the Florin Gold deposit with a current Inferred Mineral Resource of 170.99 million tonnes grading 0.45 g/t (2.47 million ounces; Simpson 2021)(4); the AurMac Project with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 347.49 million tonnes grading 0.63 gram per tonne gold (7.00 million ounces)(5) and the Valley Deposit, with a current Indicated Mineral Resource of 4.05 million oz gold at 1.66 g/t and an additional Inferred Mineral Resource of 3.26 million oz at 1.25 g/t gold(6). (1) Sims J. Fort Knox Mine Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska, USA National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report. June 11, 2018. https://s2.q4cdn.com/496390694/files/doc_downloads/2018/Fort-Knox-June-2018-Technical-Report.pdf (2) Harvey N., Gray P., Winterton J., Jutras M., Levy M.,Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine, Yukon Territory, Canada. Victoria Gold Corp. December 31, 2022. https://vgcx.com/site/assets/files/6534/vgcx_-_2023_eagle_mine_technical_report_final.pdf (3) Hulse D, Emanuel C, Cook C. NI 43-101 Technical Report on Mineral Resources. Gustavson Associates. May 31, 2020. https://minedocs.com/22/Brewery-Creek-PEA-01182022.pdf (4) Simpson R. Florin Gold Project NI 43-101 Technical Report. Geosim Services Inc. April 21, 2021. https://sedar.com/GetFile.do?lang=EN&docClass=24&issuerNo=00005795&issuerType=03&projectNo=03236138&docI d=4984158 (5) Thornton T., Jutras M., Malhotra D. Technical Report Aurmac Property Mayo Mining District, Yukon Territory, Canada. JDS Energy and Mining Inc. February 6, 2024. https://banyangold.com/site/assets/files/5251/banyan_gold_ni_43-101_technical_report_2024_03_18.pdf (6) Burrell H., Redmond D.J., Haggarty P., Rogue Gold Project: NI 43-101 Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate, Yukon Territory, Canada. Snowline Gold Corp. May 15, 2024. https://snowlinegold.com Upcoming Events Sitka Gold will be attending and/or presenting at the following events*: Metal Investors Forum, Vancouver, BC: January 17 - 18, 2025 VRIC, Vancouver, BC: January 19 - 20, 2025 RoundUp, Vancouver, BC: January 20 - 23, 2025 PDAC, Toronto, ON: March 2 - 5, 2025 Swiss Mining Institute, Zurich, Switzerland: March 18 - 19, 2025 *All events are subject to change. About Sitka Gold Corp. Sitka Gold Corp. is a well-funded mineral exploration company headquartered in Canada with over $15 million in its treasury. The Company is managed by a team of experienced industry professionals and is focused on exploring for economically viable mineral deposits with its primary emphasis on gold, silver and copper mineral properties of merit. Sitka is currently advancing its 100% owned, 431 square kilometre flagship RC Gold Project located within the Tombstone Gold Belt in the Yukon Territory. The Company is also advancing the Alpha Gold Project in Nevada and currently has drill permits for its Burro Creek Gold and Silver Project in Arizona and the Coppermine River Project in Nunavut. In January 2023, the Company announced an NI 43-101 compliant initial inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1) beginning at surface and grading 0.68 g/t at its RC Gold Project in Yukon (see news release dated January 19, 2023). (1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory *For more detailed information on the Company's properties please visit our website at www.sitkagoldcorp.com. The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Cor Coe, P.Geo., Director and CEO of the Company, and a Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SITKA GOLD CORP. "Donald Penner" President and Director Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-Looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions and the Company's anticipated work programs. These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market uncertainty and the results of the Company's anticipated work programs. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236266 SOURCE: Sitka Gold Corp. 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. TORONTO, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rogers, Canada's largest wireless provider, is working with rSIM, a patented, dual-core resilient SIM designed specifically for IoT applications. Built on GSMA standards, rSIM delivers reliable, always-on connectivity tailored for critical IoT use cases. Together, Rogers and rSIM are addressing the growing demand for uninterrupted, high-availability connectivity across industries in Canada, ensuring businesses stay connected when it matters most. Rogers, recognised in July 2024 as Canada's most reliable 5G network by umlaut and the most reliable wireless network by Opensignal, operates the country's largest 5G network. Building on this success, Rogers is collaborating with rSIM to deliver innovative, high-resiliency connectivity solutions tailored specifically for IoT. By leveraging rSIM's neutral, operator-agnostic technology, Rogers ensures IoT devices benefit from scalable, reliable connectivity designed to eliminate downtime and provide uninterrupted service. Built on GSMA standards, rSIM tests the data connection directly from the SIM and autonomously switches seamlessly to a backup profile when connectivity is lost. Designed to be device-agnostic, rSIM integrates this resilience directly into the SIM itself, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. This makes it ideal for IoT applications, particularly in industries where always on connectivity is essential. A Collaboration for IoT Resiliency With Canada expected to reach 20 million IoT connections by 2030, according to GSMA Intelligence, the need for resilient and reliable connectivity is becoming increasingly critical. Transforma Insights predicts that by 2030, 68% of IoT connections will require always on, real-time connectivity, a figure projected to rise to 83% by 2033. Rogers, in collaboration with rSIM, is addressing this challenge head-on. rSIM's patented, dual-core SIM technology ensures uninterrupted service, empowering Canadian businesses with the high-availability connectivity needed to thrive in an always-connected world. "Rogers is staying ahead of this demand by investing in innovative technologies like rSIM. This collaboration not only strengthens connectivity for Canadian businesses but also enables global enterprises to operate more effectively in Canada's competitive and rapidly evolving market," said Lloyd Fernandes, Strategic Account Manager, Global IoT, Connected Vehicles & M2M Partnerships, Rogers Communications. "As the need for reliable connectivity extends to more IoT verticals, we are here to support Rogers in serving this fast-growing requirement," said Cristina Barlow, Head of Strategic Partnerships, rSIM. "Our focus is on providing always on, real-time reliable solutions that meet the demands of modern IoT deployments." About rSIM rSIM is a patented, GSMA standards-based technology developed for the IoT industry to ensure resilient, always on connectivity. By autonomously monitoring and switching networks directly from the SIM, rSIM eliminates downtime and provides seamless connectivity for mission, life, and business-critical applications. Developed by CSL Group, a leader in critical connectivity solutions, rSIM is redefining what it means to stay connected in an increasingly digital and demanding world. Discover more at: www.rsim.com. About Rogers Rogers is Canada's leading provider of telecommunications services, offering innovative solutions that power businesses, communities, and IoT applications across the country. With its focus on network reliability and continuous improvement, Rogers ensures seamless connectivity for Canada's rapidly evolving IoT landscape. This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of Rogers and rSIM to driving innovation, reliability, and resilience in IoT connectivity. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2591718/Rogers_rSIM.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/rogers-and-rsim-collaborate-to-power-always-on-iot-connectivity-across-canada-302344356.html NOVATO, Calif., Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cyclarity Therapeutics is pleased to announce regulatory approval to begin its first-in-human clinical trial. The trial will be conducted at CMAX, one of Australia's leading clinical research centers, in partnership with Monash University. This effort will be led by Dr. Stephen Nicholls of the Victorian Heart Institute (VHI), a distinguished leader in cardiovascular medicine. In addition to a traditional SAD/MAD phase 1 trial, the authorization includes an allowance to enroll 12 patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) to assess the safety of UDP-003 in individuals with plaque buildup, as well as to explore anecdotal evidence of efficacy. This represents a critical first step in evaluating the potential impact of our therapy in a population with high unmet need. Key performance indicators (KPIs): Clinical Trial Material (CTM): Manufacture is complete, with all supporting documentation and analysis finalized. UDP-003 is in vials and ready for administration to human participants. Manufacture is complete, with all supporting documentation and analysis finalized. UDP-003 is in vials and ready for administration to human participants. Investigational New Drug (IND) Enabling Studies: All studies have been successfully completed with no predicted toxicological liabilities, ensuring a safe path forward. All studies have been successfully completed with no predicted toxicological liabilities, ensuring a safe path forward. Clinical readiness: All materials necessary for clinical trial authorization have been submitted and are in place. This milestone marks a significant moment for Cyclarity as the trial joins Dr. Nicholls' legacy of innovative clinical research. His previous work includes the SATURN trial for Crestor in the early 2000s, the CLEAR Outcomes trial in the 2020s that introduced bempedoic acid as a statin alternative, and the recent Muvalaplin trial targeting Lp(a), a major innovation in cardiovascular health. "We are excited to be working with Dr. Nicholls on a groundbreaking advancement in cardiovascular care," said CEO of Scientific Affairs Matthew O'Connor. "As we advance into being a clinical stage company, Cyclarity is focused on bringing truly disease-modifying treatments for the world's deadliest disease into reality." WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Bitcoin breached the $102 level again in the past 24 hours amidst bullish momentum triggered by anticipation ahead of the inauguration of Donald Trump as U.S. president. Overall crypto market capitalization also rose to $3.61 trillion before dropping to its current level of $3.55 trillion. Continuing strong inflows to Bitcoin Spot ETF products in the U.S. also boosted market sentiment.Bitcoin is now ranked 7th and Ethereum 25th in the global ranking of all assets as per market capitalization published by companiesmarketcap.com.Bitcoin Spot ETF products in the U.S. saw inflows rising to $979 million on Monday from $908 million a day earlier. Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) topped with inflows of $370 million followed by iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) that recorded inflows of $209 million. Ark 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) also recorded inflows of close to $153 million. No ETF recorded net outflows on Monday.Inflows to Ethereum Spot ETF products in the U.S. rose to $129 million on Monday from $59 million a day earlier.Bitcoin has gained 1.5 percent overnight and 5.5 percent in the past week to trade at $100,735.37, around 7 percent below the all-time high. Bitcoin traded between $102,712.49 and $98,729.28 in the past 24 hours.Ethereum slipped 0.07 percent in the past 24 hours to trade at $3,639.39, around 26 percent below the previous peak recorded in November 2021. ETH is however holding on to gains of 6.4 percent in the past week. Ether traded between $3,743.94 and $3,622.30 in the past 24 hours.3rd ranked XRP (XRP) has rallied 1.1 percent overnight to trade at $2.42, around 37 percent below the all-time high touched in January 2018. The cryptocurrency issued by Ripple Labs has gained more than 13 percent in the past week.BNB (BNB) gained more than a percent overnight and close to 2 percent in the past week to rise to the 5th rank overall. At its current trading price of $724.58, BNB is trading 9 percent below the all-time high.Solana (SOL), slipped to the 6th rank overall amidst an overnight decline of 1.8 percent. With weekly gains of 9.5 percent, SOL is currently trading at $214.07, around 19 percent below its record high.Meanwhile, the CoinShares' Digital Asset Fund Flows Weekly report for the week ended January 3 showed net outflows of $75 million. Month-to-date flows stood at $556 million. According to the report, XRP topped flows by asset, Fidelity ETF topped flows by provider and Canada topped flows by country during the past week.XRP-based products recorded inflows of $5.7 million followed by multi-asset products that recorded inflows of $4.1 million.Ethereum-based products witnessed outflows of $49.6 million followed by Bitcoin-based products that saw outflows of $25 million. Short Bitcoin products also registered outflows of $6.6 million.More than 81 percent of the cumulative AUM of $161 billion is attributed to Bitcoin products that account for an AUM of $130 billion. Bitcoin's dominance of crypto market is much lower, at close to 56 percent.AUM of Ethereum-based products stood at $18.6 billion. Multi-asset portfolios command assets under management of $7.2 billion. An AUM of $1.8 billion is attributed to Solana-based products. XRP-based products have AUM close to $930 million followed by Binance-based products with an AUM of $703 million.The provider-wise analysis of flows inter alia shows inflows of $275 million to Fidelity ETF. Ark 21Shares recorded inflows of $202 million followed by Bitwise ETF that recorded inflows of $87 million.Grayscale Investments recorded outflows of $217 million followed by iShares ETF that witnessed outflows of $106 million. Volatility Shares Trust also registered outflows of $103 million.iShares ETF tops with a cumulative AUM of $58.2 billion implying a share of 36 percent. Though outflows exceeded $21 billion in 2024, Grayscale Investments still accounts for an AUM of $28.6 billion, which is 17.8 percent of the cumulative AUM of $160.6 billion. Fidelity commands an AUM of $20.2 billion followed by 21Shares that has an AUM of $4.9 billion.The top 3 viz iShares, Grayscale Investments and Fidelity account for more than 66.6 percent of the total AUM.The country-wise analysis shows weekly inflows of $196 million to United States. Switzerland recorded inflows of $8.4 million.Canada recorded outflows of $213 million. Germany saw outflows of $40.6 million followed by Sweden which witnessed outflows of $16.2 million. Hong Kong also recorded outflows of $10.2 million.Of the cumulative AUM of $160.6 billion, $123.8 billion or 77.1 percent is in United States. Switzerland follows with AUM of $7.4 billion whereas Canada accounts for an AUM of $6.2 billion. Germany accounts for an AUM of $5.7 billion followed by Sweden with an AUM of $4 billion.For More Cryptocurrency News, visit rttnews.comCopyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Aledia has redefined innovation with the smallest and most efficient microLEDs ever designed for AR applications. Powered by groundbreaking 3D nanowire GaN-on-Si technology, these microLEDs set new benchmarks in brightness, efficiency and directivity Aledia unveils today a new $200M state-of-the-art microLED production line in Grenoble, France, in the heart of Europe's "Display Valley," positioned to revolutionize and accelerate the next generation of smart glasses for the consumer mass market At CES 2025, Aledia, the leader in microLED display technology, today unveiled the availability of its game-changing microLED technology set to redefine the future of hardware for augmented reality and to power the next generation of displays for vision applications. Tech giants have recently doubled down on microLED for smart glasses, releasing prototypes and targeting commercial launches as early as 2027. While AI-powered use cases for AR have emerged over the last year, critical hardware challenges power consumption, bulkiness and manufacturing costs remain significant barriers to mass adoption. After 12 years of relentless R&D, a portfolio of nearly 300 patents and $600 million in investment, Aledia has shattered these barriers. With its groundbreaking microLED-based microdisplay the most efficient, monolithically grown with Red, Green and Blue microLEDs on the same substrate that are natively directive the company can solve the toughest hardware challenges, paving the way for the most immersive, AI-powered AR vision experiences ever conceived. "Immersive technologies such as AR haven't reached their full potential as the industry has yet to design screens that are both slick and highly functional," said Pierre Laboisse, president and CEO of Aledia. "At Aledia, we've created a nanowire technology that makes microLED displays thinner, more power efficient and easier to produce for mass adoption. By next CES, OLED and LCOS will already be phased out in favor of our superior microLED technology." Aledia's unrivaled microLED platform for Augmented Reality Aledia's microLED technology based on 3D gallium nitride (GaN) on silicon nanowires opens the way to the next generation of smart displays unrivaled by any companies on the market today: Difference you can see: Aledia's 3D GaN nanowire technology delivers enhanced brightness and energy efficiency compared to 2D LED, along with superior pixel density and resolution. The 3D structure allows precise and directive light emission, making Aledia's displays highly efficient and perfectly suited for advanced applications like AR. During R&D testing, Aledia's nanowires improved directivity and light efficiency in real-world settings, which are crucial for immersive AR experiences. Aledia's 3D GaN nanowire technology delivers enhanced brightness and energy efficiency compared to 2D LED, along with superior pixel density and resolution. The 3D structure allows precise and directive light emission, making Aledia's displays highly efficient and perfectly suited for advanced applications like AR. During R&D testing, Aledia's nanowires improved directivity and light efficiency in real-world settings, which are crucial for immersive AR experiences. Superior battery life in a compact package: Aledia's hybrid bonding technology combines microLED and driver electronics into the smallest and smartest chip on the market, resulting in thinner displays and superior power efficiency for longer battery life. Aledia's hybrid bonding technology combines microLED and driver electronics into the smallest and smartest chip on the market, resulting in thinner displays and superior power efficiency for longer battery life. Cost-effective manufacturing that scales: Aledia's advantage lies in its over $200 million in-house pilot production line at the center of Europe's "Display Valley," enabling faster iteration without initial volume constraint. By utilizing semiconductor-grade silicon in 8-inch and 12-inch formats, Aledia lowers production costs for large-scale production of microLEDs, accelerating widespread adoption in a wide range of displays. Aledia is ready and able to support customer demand ramp up to nearly 5,000 wafer starts per week. "Our Champagnier factory is a key milestone for European innovation, and we are proud to represent it at the Auvergne Rhone-Alpes Pavilion at CES," added Laboisse. "We are redefining global standards of display technology with our efficient and high-performing chips, positioning Grenoble as the global center of microLED production." To experience Aledia's state-of-the-art technology at CES 2025, visit Booth 60711-04 at Eureka Park, in Hall G at the Venetian. Exclusive interviews with company executives can be arranged upon request, and private meetings will be hosted at the Venetian Resort For more information on Aledia, visit https://www.aledia.com/en/. About Aledia Founded in 2011, Aledia is the market leader in 3D nanowire-based microLED technology, pioneering the next generation of displays. Its proprietary, patented technology powers displays that are brighter, thinner and more energy-efficient for complex experiences such as augmented reality, smartwatches, automotive and more. Headquartered in the heart of Europe's "Display Valley" in Grenoble, Aledia is at the forefront of blending the digital and physical worlds for more immersive experiences. For more information visit us at www.aledia.com, and follow us on LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107358659/en/ Contacts: Media Contact Angela Nibbs aledia@maven-pr.com Firm announces 12 new partners and 5 special counsel promotions for 2025 Schulte Roth Zabel ("Schulte" or "the firm") is proud to announce its largest partner class in firm history, marking a significant milestone in the firm's growth and expansion. Effective January 1, 2025, 12 exceptional lawyers Ari Aranda, Max Garfield, Brandon Gold, David Lifshitz, Sean Locklear, Amy MacDonagh, Andrew Mazzarella, Frank Olander, Minji Reem, Lauren Troeller, Hannah Wells and Saarah Woodby joined the firm's partnership, representing a diverse array of talent across Schulte's New York and London offices. In addition, Schulte has promoted five accomplished lawyers to special counsel: Chris Hamilton, Daniel Neer, Sasha O'Leary, George Rowe and Abraham Schwartz. While the majority are based in the New York office, O'Leary will continue to serve clients from the London office. This cohort of lawyers represent seven key practice areas, further solidifying Schulte's standing as a global leader in legal and the private capital space. "The firm achieved exceptional growth this year, fueled by a high level of business activity and new market opportunities that bolstered our presence and reaffirmed our position in the financial sector," said Marc Elovitz, co-managing partner. "We carry this momentum into 2025, marked by promotions that underscore the depth and breadth of our talent and showcases the unique and focused synergy across Schulte's practice groups." David Efron, co-managing partner, added, "At Schulte, collaboration is the cornerstone of our success. This culture not only drives exceptional outcomes for our clients, but also fosters an environment where our lawyers can thrive. These promotions are a testament to that ethos and our ability to anticipate and adapt to the changing needs of our clients." Partners Ari Z. Aranda represents lenders and borrowers in connection with commercial mortgage and mezzanine financings, acquisitions and dispositions of commercial properties, negotiation of joint venture agreements, and workouts and restructurings. Max Garfield primarily represents investment fund clients on all aspects of employment law issues. His work includes advising on onboarding and offboarding personnel, counseling on day-to-day employment issues, drafting and negotiating employment- and compensation-related agreements, and navigating complex disputes with employees, partners and other personnel. Brandon S. Gold advises investors on shareholder activism, proxy fights, corporate governance, M&A, stakeholder engagement and securities law matters. He has represented virtually every prominent activist investor and played a leading role in many of the highest profile and groundbreaking activist campaigns in the past decade. He earned his JD from Harvard Law School, where he was a fellow in Harvard's Program on Corporate Governance. David Lifshitz counsels private investment fund managers with respect to a broad range of fund formation and regulatory and compliance matters. Sean D. Locklear represents lenders, borrowers, underwriters, issuers and investors on asset-backed lending, securitization and litigation finance transactions. In addition, Sean regularly advises clients on swaps, repos and other derivative products, as well as regulatory developments impacting the derivatives market. Amy MacDonagh focuses on the representation of private funds and investment advisers in connection with their structuring, formation and ongoing operational needs and on regulatory and compliance matters. Andrew M. Mazzarella represents private funds, including open-ended funds, closed-ended funds and hybrid funds, and investment advisers in connection with their structuring, formation and ongoing operational needs and on regulatory and compliance matters. Frank W. Olander handles complex commercial litigation, particularly in the areas of shareholder activist litigation, M&A litigation, and corporate control and corporate governance disputes. He also represents public and private companies and financial services industry clients in a wide range of commercial disputes involving claims for breach of contract, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty and fraudulent transfer. Minji Reem focuses on complex commercial litigation, shareholder activist litigation, securities litigation and internal investigations. She has represented public and private companies, individuals and financial services industry clients, including investment managers and banks, in various state and federal courts and arbitration forums, from commencement through trials and appeals. Lauren M. Troeller advises middle market private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies, as well as direct lenders and privately owned businesses, in complex business transactions (including leveraged buyouts, divestitures, mergers, carve-outs, distressed acquisitions, minority investments, take privates and joint ventures). Hannah J. Wells focuses on the tax aspects of private investment funds, including hedge funds, private equity funds, hybrid funds and credit funds, as well as advising investment managers in connection with their structuring, formation and ongoing operations. Saarah Woodby represents venture funds, crossover funds, asset managers and other institutional investors in their debt and equity investments into technology-focused emerging companies, whose investments range from seed stage to growth equity. Special Counsel Chris Hamilton represents institutional and entrepreneurial investment managers, financial services firms and private investment funds in all aspects of their business, including advising managers of hedge, private equity and hybrid funds in the formation and management of investment funds. Daniel R. Neer represents private funds, including open-ended funds, closed-ended funds and hybrid funds, and investment advisers in connection with their structuring, formation and ongoing operational needs, and on regulatory and compliance matters. He also has experience advising investment advisers on structuring and negotiating seed and strategic investments and relationships. Sasha O'Leary focuses on advising alternative investment funds and their managers. She also represents established and emerging European, US and Asian managers in connection with the establishment, restructuring, management and ongoing operational, transactional and legal needs of private funds across a range of strategies. George H. Rowe advises on complex commercial litigation, securities litigation and government enforcement matters, including enforcement proceedings before the US Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, as well as litigation finance matters. Abraham Schwartz advises clients on shareholder activism matters, proxy contests, ESG engagement, M&A, corporate governance and other related matters. He represents and provides strategic advice to investors of all stripes on matters of shareholder engagement and has worked on some of the most significant campaigns in the activist space, including the largest proxy fight in history. About Schulte Roth Zabel Schulte Roth Zabel LLP is firmly focused on private capital, combining deep experience, industry insight and commercial creativity to help clients raise and invest assets, protect their businesses, and drive growth. With a team of trusted advisers and problem-solvers, the firm offers comprehensive counsel in investment management, corporate transactions, securities regulation and enforcement matters, litigation, and finance. Schulte operates from offices in New York, Washington, D.C., and London. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107429662/en/ Contacts: Schulte Roth Zabel Marissa Gallo marissa.gallo@srz.com media@srz.com +1 212.610.7081 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Purebread Brands Inc. (TSXV: BRED) ("Purebread" or the "Company"), an award-winning bakery brand, is excited to announce the launch of its Partnership Program, an innovative partnership vehicle designed to fuel Purebread's North American expansion. This unique program allows select partners to fund individual bakery locations, providing critical growth capital while Purebread maintains operational control to ensure brand quality and consistency. Strategic Expansion with Partner Support With a longstanding history of profitability and a loyal customer base, Purebread has grown to eight locations in British Columbia and is now ready to extend its reach across Canada. The Partnership Program offers a strategic opportunity for growth by enabling new locations to be opened swiftly while safeguarding Purebread's financial health. Key Benefits of the Partnership Program include: Accelerated Growth: Partnerships allow for a faster expansion without impacting Purebread's balance sheet. Operational Control: Purebread manages all daily operations, preserving its high standards for product quality and customer service. Risk Mitigation: Reduces Purebread's risk as it enters new markets. Shared Profits: Income-focused partners benefit long-term from a profit share as Purebread broadens its market presence and revenue base. Andrew Barnes, CEO of Purebread, commented, "The Partnership Program is an exciting and transformative strategy for Purebread to grow rapidly alongside trusted partners who share our passion. This model allows us to expand efficiently while protecting what makes Purebread unique. We look forward to building our future with partners aligned with our values." Learn More About the Breadwinner Program Potential partners who are passionate about the brand and seeking a hands-off, long-term partnership opportunity can visit the company website to learn more https://purebreadbrands.com/breadwinner-partnerships Purebread Brands Inc. Provides Management Updates Further to the announcement above, the company also announces changes to its management team. Effective December 31, 2024, Michael Yam, Chief Financial Officer, and Bernadette D'Silva, Corporate Secretary, have stepped down from their roles. "On behalf of Purebread, I want to extend my gratitude to Michael and Bernadette for their invaluable contributions to the Company," said Andrew Barnes, CEO of Purebread. "Their hard work and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the Company's growth." The Board of Directors has appointed Andrew Barnes, CEO, to assume the additional role of Interim Chief Financial Officer while the Company undertakes a search for a permanent CFO. Andrew Barnes stated, "We are grateful for Michael's contributions to the Company, particularly his leadership during the Company's acquisition of Purebread Bakery in September 2023, and its subsequent integration. On behalf of the Company, we wish him continued success in his future endeavors." About Purebread Brands Inc.: Purebread Brands Inc. is a growing force in commercial real estate and food technology, operating fast-casual cafes, bakeries, and shared-kitchen facilities. Purebread is committed to making a positive impact on the communities it serves. 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 Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflect management's current expectations regarding future events. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, forward-looking statements with respect to plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities, partnerships, increasing consumer demand, performance of in-store and online sales channels, geographic expansion, additional product offerings, and operating performance. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Although the Company's management believes that the assumptions made (and the expectations represented by such forward-looking statements) are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements referenced herein will prove to be accurate. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates should change, except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. More detailed information about potential factors that could affect results is included in the documents that may be filed from time to time with Canadian securities regulatory authorities by the Company. For a more detailed discussion of certain of these risk factors, see the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent MD&A, available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236243 SOURCE: Purebread Brands Inc. Supports Pinellas County Schools' Future Cities program and enhanced experiences at Enterprise Village and Finance Park Brings total company donations to more than $4 million ST. PETERSBURG, FL / ACCESSWIRE / January 7, 2025 / Thanks to a long-standing collaboration with Duke Energy Florida, the Duke Energy Foundation and Pinellas Education Foundation, thousands of students will experience real-world economic and innovative engineering concepts to help them reach their full potential both in and out of the classroom. Duke Energy Foundation provided a $100,000 grant to Pinellas County Schools' Future Cities program to help students in grades six through eight explore and create sustainable solutions around energy, land conservation and environmental issues. Through the program, middle school students imagine, research, design and build cities of the future that showcase their solution to a citywide sustainability issue. The company also renewed its longtime sponsorship of Pinellas County Schools' Stavros Institute Enterprise Village and Finance Park, where thousands of elementary and high school students travel from across the state to develop basic economic concepts, understand the process between businesses and consumers and learn how to make sound personal finance decisions. During last year's school year, more than 14,000 students attended the storefronts. "Enterprise Village and Finance Park have grown into one of Pinellas County's most popular destinations and innovative learning experiences," said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. "Many of our employees and retirees have fond memories of Enterprise Village, visiting as students, volunteers or chaperones, which speaks to the lasting impact Pinellas Education Foundation programs have on our communities." This year, Duke Energy Florida upgraded its storefronts in Enterprise Village and Finance Park to reflect a smarter, brighter energy future with new energy efficiency jobs and innovative tools including thermal cameras, virtual reality experiences and renewable energy concepts. Duke Energy - then Florida Power Corporation - has been a sponsor of Enterprise Village since its inception in 1989. "Duke Energy is a valued supporter of Pinellas Education Foundation," said Kim Jowell, Pinellas Education Foundation chief executive officer. "They have a long-standing commitment to having a presence in our signature Enterprise Village and Finance Park programs. "This year, we are particularly excited they will be providing opportunities for students to explore and create sustainable solutions around energy and environmental issues," said Jowell. "Duke Energy exemplifies how investing in education enhances student learning experiences and drives academic success." For nearly four decades, Duke Energy Florida, its predecessor companies and the Duke Energy Foundation have supported Pinellas Education Foundation with more than $4 million in grants, donations and sponsorships. Duke Energy Florida Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, owns 12,300 megawatts of energy capacity, supplying electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. Duke Energy Foundation The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders. Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Pinellas Education Foundation Established in 1986, Pinellas Education Foundation is a nationally recognized, dynamic nonprofit organization committed to transforming students' lives, empowering them to achieve their full potential, and providing teachers with the resources they need to excel in the classroom. Through innovative initiatives, a strategic partnership with Pinellas County Schools, and collaboration with community partners, we work tirelessly to accelerate educational achievement for all students. With a comprehensive approach to education, our programs cover the bookends of learning, beginning with an emphasis on early literacy all the way through the intricate pathways of college and career readiness. Improving outcomes, especially for students with the greatest achievement gaps, is pivotal to our work. Our commitment to quality education spans the entire spectrum, and we are constantly evolving to address the ever-changing needs of students and teachers. To learn more, visit pinellaseducation.org. Duke Energy Florida Media Contact: Audrey Stasko Media line: 800.559.3853 Twitter: @DE_AudreyS Pinellas Education Foundation Media Contact: Kate Smith Office: 727.588.4816, Ext. 2128 Kate.Smith@pinellaseducation.org View original content here. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Duke Energy on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Duke Energy Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/duke-energy Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Duke Energy View the original press release on accesswire.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - With imports rebounding by more than exports, the Commerce Department released a report on Tuesday showing the U.S. trade deficit widened roughly in line with economist estimates in the month of November.The Commerce Department the trade deficit increased to $78.2 billion in November from a revised $73.6 billion in October.Economists had expected the trade deficit to climb to $78.0 billion from the $73.8 billion originally reported for the previous month.'As expected, trade flows in both directions rebounded from October's declines, while a larger increase in imports pushed the trade deficit wider in November,' said Matthew Martin, Senior U.S. Economist at Oxford Economics.'However, net trade is on track to be slightly positive or neutral to GDP growth in Q4 - the first such occurrence since Q4 2023,' he added. 'There is still uncertainty baked into this forecast, though, with the potential for another dockworkers strike looming in mid-January.'The wider trade deficit came as the value of imports shot up by 3.4 percent to $351.6 billion in November after plunging by 3.9 percent to $339.9 billion in October.The rebound by the value of imports partly reflected sharp increases by imports of industrial supplies and materials and capital goods.Meanwhile, the Commerce Department said the value of exports jumped by 2.7 percent to $273.4 billion in November after slumping by 1.4 percent to $266.3 billion in October.The report showed a surge by exports of industrial supplies and materials as well as increases by exports of automotive vehicles, parts and engines, capital goods and consumer goods.The Commerce Department also said the goods deficit widened to $103.4 billion in November from $97.9 billion in October, while the services surplus rose to $25.2 billion in November from $24.3 billion in October.Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX With Unrivaled Craftsmanship and Exquisite Attention To Detail, TV Star and Bride-To-Be Embarks on Her Bridal Journey As a David's Diamond Bride, Showcasing the Brand's Newest Hand-Designed Gowns For Every Bride David's Bridal, Inc. ("David's"), the nation's leading bridal, wedding planning, and special occasion authority, today unveiled its Spring 2025 Bridal Collection of the newest bridal gowns rooted in the artistry of design, with the help of reality TV star and style icon, Kelsey Anderson. At the heart of the Spring 2025 collection is meticulous craftsmanship and the timeless artistry that has made David's a household name - almost every dress in the collection proudly showcases a handmade element, with some requiring more than 20 hours of handwork to create. To celebrate the individuality and craftsmanship of the newest bridal collection, David's tapped Kelsey to help personify the authenticity, personality, and passion she shares with the collection. In her first bridal collaboration, Kelsey brings the magic of David's to life as she prepares for her own walk down the aisle. "Planning my wedding is such a special chapter in my life, and starting my dress journey with David's Bridal has been the perfect way to discover all of the latest bridal trends and fashions," said Kelsey Anderson, Reality Star and current bride-to-be. "With David's Bridal, I get to share with fans the start of my dream bridal journey, starting with finding the perfect dress. This collection truly blew me away in person - the designs and quality fabrics captivate you. It so clearly marries incredible craftsmanship with effortless romance, and I'm honored to showcase these beautiful and chic designs that will make every bride not only feel the love that goes into every stitch of these gowns but like a true bridal vision on their big day." Created by David's Head of Couture & Design, Viola Chan, and her team of in-house experts, the boutique-quality gowns of David's 2025 Spring Collection blend modern elegance with affordable luxury, ensuring every bride-no matter size, shape, or style-feels uniquely celebrated on the big day. With sizes ranging from 0-30W, tall and petite, and prices from $200 to $3,600, this collection redefines accessibility in bridal fashion. "With this collection, we've pushed the boundaries of artistry and innovation without sacrificing quality or accessibility for the modern bride," shared Viola Chan, Head of Couture & Design at David's Bridal. "Every gown is designed with intricate hand-stitched details and quality fabrics, showcasing trending and trendsetting silhouettes to match every bride's aesthetic. David's Bridal's mission is to make every dream wedding a reality, and we truly believe we've accomplished that with our Spring 2025 collection." This collection's standout feature is the unparalleled craftsmanship behind each design. From the classic to the contemporary, the collection includes unforgettable pieces from David's signature brands: Galina Signature ( SWG1038) : A sheer bodice with corset boning and a basque waistline featuring hand-placed lace appliques and beading, which takes over 10 hours to complete, bring the drama on this mermaid wedding dress. Brides can even switch up their look throughout the day with the removable off-the-shoulder sleeves covered in lace appliques. DB Studio ( SDWG1221 ): The richly textured and elegant jacquard fabric combines a clean, minimal, modern silhouette, making this gown the perfect combination of modern and classic. Melissa Sweet (# MS251279 ): The gown's illusion corset bodice is sexy yet romantic. Experts spend nearly 20 hours placing and hand-stitching two types of lace appliques and three-dimensional flowers on each gown. Oleg Cassini ( CWG1027 ): This jaw-dropping full ball gown, with hand-pleated satin at the bodice and a sculpted neckline, modernizes this timeless beauty, perfect for any classic bride. Oleg Cassini ( CWG1024 ): The modern-day princess will fall in love with this iconic floral organza ball gown, with a hand-placed illusion bodice layout and flattering basque waist for the look of an elongated torso. Melissa Sweet ( MS251283 ): Three-dimensional flowers dance across the bodice and down the skirt of this ball gown wedding dress. An illusion bodice and a layer of glitter lace, which takes 24 hours to place, add to its romantic appeal. Galina Signature ( SWG1031 ): This boned bodice wedding dress features sleek satin and a sexy silhouette. A sculpted neckline pairs with a full skirt for ultimate drama. "Our 2025 Spring Collection almost feels like a reintroduction of David's Bridal," added Kelly Cook, President of Brand, Technology and Finance at David's Bridal. "What Viola and our team of industry-leading designers have created is a bride's fever dream! Every dress in the collection has a handmade component, allowing us to provide brides with a couture, fashion house creation within the modern brides' budget. We want every bride to look and feel like a designer bride and this collection makes that happen because they truly are all designer pieces." In addition to the new Spring collection, brides can join Kelsey as a Diamond Bride and take advantage of exclusive perks and deals through the Diamond Loyalty Program , allowing them to receive 15% off their first purchase, and share the gift of fashion with everyone in their bridal party, including 10% off bridesmaids dresses. Diamond Members can also take advantage of The 8 Dress Edit, and save 10% off of David's vast assortment of little white dresses suited and styled for all wedding activities. With almost three million members, David's Diamond Loyalty program is the industry's only loyalty program offering shoppers the best perks and deals to save on every shopping trip and earn points for a free honeymoon. To learn more about the next level craftsmanship of the new Spring 2025 collection and shop, visit www.DavidsBridal.com and @davidsbridal on TikTok and Instagram. For additional assets, please see media kit here . ### About David's Bridal With over 70 years of experience dressing people for all of life's special occasions, David's Bridal is built on the ethos of making dreams happen. David's Bridal is dedicated to creating innovative solutions that serve wedding and special occasion consumers and the industry at large. David's boasts the industry's only loyalty program, the Diamond Loyalty Program . This program, with almost 3 million members, provides perks and deals from partners like The Black Tux , Shutterfly , Little Tuxedos and much more, including the opportunity to win a free honeymoon. Additionally, Pearl by David's offers consumers a wedding website , universal wedding registry , robust wedding checklist , and a new vendor marketplace that beautifully pairs brides with their perfect vendor partners. 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With more than 190 stores across the US, Canada, and franchise locations in Mexico, David's Bridal offers the convenience of one-stop shopping for every magical event in her life, including weddings, Quinceanera, graduations, proms, communions, or simply making the world her runway and beyond. To learn more about David's Bridal, visit www.DavidsBridal.com , download the Planning App , and connect on social media through Instagram , YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , X , TikTok , and LinkedIn . Contact Information David's Bridal mediarequests@dbi.com Related Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-8jvdKhX2Y SOURCE: David's Bridal View the original press release on accesswire.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. ("West Red Lake Gold" or the "Company") (TSXV: WRLG) (OTCQB: WRLGF) is pleased to announce the results of the pre-feasibility study ("PFS") prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") for the imminent restart of its 100% owned Madsen Mine project in the Red Lake Gold District of northwestern Ontario, Canada. West Red Lake Gold will hold a conference call on January 8th at 11:00am ET, followed by a question-and-answer period. To access the call, please register here: https://www.amvestcapital.com/webinar-directory/westredlakegoldmines010825. The webinar will be archived for viewing at www.westredlakegold.com All dollar amounts in this news release are in Canadian dollars ($) unless otherwise indicated. The effective date of the PFS is December 31, 2024, and a technical report relating to the PFS will be filed on SEDAR+ within 45 days of this news release. Madsen Mine PFS Highlights: Strong Value Underlines Mine Restart Rationale : Post-tax net present value (" NPV ") (5%) of $315 million at a long-term gold price of US$2,200 per oz. reinforces the rationale to restart the Madsen Mine imminently based on this initial mine plan; potential for Madsen to grow beyond this initial plan with further definition and exploration drilling strengthens the rationale : Post-tax net present value (" ") (5%) of $315 million at a long-term gold price of US$2,200 per oz. reinforces the rationale to restart the Madsen Mine imminently based on this initial mine plan; potential for Madsen to grow beyond this initial plan with further definition and exploration drilling strengthens the rationale High Grade Mine : Diluted head grade averages 8.2 g/t gold : Diluted head grade averages 8.2 g/t gold Average Annual Production : 67,600 oz. gold per year over 6 years of full production, within a 7.2-year mine life : 67,600 oz. gold per year over 6 years of full production, within a 7.2-year mine life Strong Free Cash Flows : $69.5 million average annual free cash flow from an operation with average total operating cost of US$919 per oz. and average all-in sustaining cost (" AISC ") of US$1681 per oz. : $69.5 million average annual free cash flow from an operation with average total operating cost of US$919 per oz. and average all-in sustaining cost (" ") of US$1681 per oz. Construction and Capital Investment to Mine Startup Substantially Complete . Bulk sample currently being mined; mill startup to process bulk sample planned in March; 21 km of modern underground development (since 2019) provides good mining access and represents significant time and cost savings . Bulk sample currently being mined; mill startup to process bulk sample planned in March; 21 km of modern underground development (since 2019) provides good mining access and represents significant time and cost savings Production Start Date : Q2 2025 : Q2 2025 Actual Costs: The Company has been operating underground for 16 months and the mill operated in 2022, which enabled a PFS based on realized costs for most operating metrics. The Company has been operating underground for 16 months and the mill operated in 2022, which enabled a PFS based on realized costs for most operating metrics. Significant Upside Potential: There are multiple opportunities to extend mine life and enhance the economic returns of the Madsen Mine, including 1.1 million ounces of indicated resource that remain outside of this initial mine plan, resource growth near reserves and existing infrastructure, discovering new high-grade, near mine zones that add to the mine plan such as the Upper 8 Zone, and using a higher reserve cut-off price (the PFS used US$1680 per oz.). "West Red Lake Gold has worked intensely over the last 16 months to greatly improve our knowledge of the orebody and de-risk the project with the objective of executing a successful restart of the Madsen Mine, and this PFS is the culmination of that effort," said Shane Williams, President and CEO. "This initial reserve mine plan only taps well defined and tightly drilled parts of the deposit relatively close to existing workings and still generates robust margins based on a production rate of approximately 70,000 oz. per year that generate almost $400 million in post-tax free cash flow over a 7-year mine life. "Initial capital is low because the capital projects needed for restart are well advanced or already complete. That is unusual for a 'PFS-level' project, as is having already completed 58,000 metres of definition drilling and detailed engineering to define 18 months of mineable inventory on a stope-by-stope level. "We are excited to deliver a PFS that solidifies Madsen as a rare high-grade gold mine starting production in 2025. We built a realistic and achievable plan for this first mining opportunity at Madsen that we are confident we can deliver and that will justify returning the mine to production. Beyond that, we strongly believe Madsen has potential to grow well beyond this initial plan in the coming years as we source new resources and reserves near existing infrastructure while also gaining access to the deeper parts of the system, where notable upside optionality remains untapped." The PFS was prepared by independent consultants SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc., with input from AllNorth Consultants Ltd (infrastructure), T-Engineering Ltd (backfill), Nordmin Engineering Ltd (shaft), Fuse Advisors (processing), Mining Plus (mine design support), and Knight Piesold (tailings and waste rock). Economic Results and Sensitivities Table 1 summarizes the projected production and economic results of the PFS for this initial Madsen Mine plan. Figure 1 shows the Madsen Mine cash flow profile by year. Table 1: Madsen Mine - Key Economic Assumptions and Results Mine Life yrs 7.25 Total Ore Mined million tonnes 1.823 Steady State Processing Rate tpd 800 Average Head Grade Au g/t 8.16 Gold Recovery % 95.7% Average Annual Gold oz / year 67,600 Total Payable Gold oz. 457,851 Total Operating Cost US$/oz 919 Long Term Gold Price US$/oz $2,200 Gross Revenue C$M $1,480 Net Revenue C$M $1,465 Initial Capital C$M $44.1 Sustaining Capital C$M $434 Average AISC US$/oz $1,681 Cumulative Net Cash Flow (pre-tax) C$M $392 Cumulative Net Cash Flow (post-tax) C$M $391 NPV (post-tax) C$M $315 IRR (post-tax) % 255% Discounted Payback Period yrs Less than 1 Figure 1: Madsen Mine Cash Flow Profile by Year Upside Potential The Madsen Mine project hosts probable reserves of 1.823 million tonnes grading 8.16 g/t gold, containing 478,000 oz. gold. This compares to an indicated resource of 6.9 million M&I tonnes grading 7.4 g/t gold hosting 1.65 million oz. gold, plus an inferred resource of 1.8 million tonnes grading 6.3 g/t gold hosting 366,200 oz. gold. West Red Lake Gold sees two opportunities to potentially convert more of the Madsen Mine resource into reserves. First, the PFS defines reserves using a gold price cut-off of US$1680 per oz.1 This highly conservative gold price cut-off resulted in significant portions of the indicated resource being excluded from the mineable reserve. Sensitivity analysis shows that increasing the cut-off price to US$1900 per oz. increases reserves sufficient to add approximately two years to the mine plan. Second, there are many distal portions of the Madsen resource that would require access through un- or undertested areas with high geologic potential for mineralization. West Red Lake Gold plans to drill test these areas; success delineating mineralization in these gaps has the potential to transform additional resource areas into economic reserves while also growing the resource base. Notable underground expansion drilling is planned for 2025 from three key areas: 1) Connection Drift, 2) East Ramp decline targeting down-plunge North Austin, and 3) East Exploration Drive from 13L to access lower Austin and eastern extensions of main deposit. The combination of delineating new mineralization in undertested gaps, extending known reserve areas, and converting more resources to reserves has the potential to add ounces and extend mine life via (1) reducing the access development needed per tonne of ore mined and (2) supporting increased flexibility between lower-cost Longhole Stoping ("LHS") and Mechanized Cut and Fill ("MCF"). Currently, the PFS outlines 59% MCF and 41% LHS. In addition, the PFS only considers four of the seven deposits that make up the Madsen resource (Austin, South Austin, McVeigh, and 8 Zone). Other deposits at the Madsen Mine site could potentially be included in a future mine plan, such as the Fork deposit where West Red Lake Gold recently identified a high-grade portion located 250 metres away from existing underground workings. The recent Upper 8 discovery also has potential to become a shallow zone of high-grade mineralization. Additionally, the Company owns the Rowan Project that is 80 km away by road and hosts indicated resources of 476,323 tonnes grading 12.78 g/t gold hosting 195,746 oz. gold and inferred resources of 410,794 tonnes grading 8.76 g/t gold hosting 115,719 oz. gold. West Red Lake Gold sees strong potential to expand the Madsen Mine beyond the operation defined in this PFS if future drilling, engineering, and permitting demonstrates it is economic to include additional zones into an updated mine plan. The PFS is based on 800 tpd throughput; the Madsen Mill has nameplate capacity of 1,089tpd. Mining The mine will operate as a mechanized underground operation with a steady state production rate of 800 tonnes of mineralized material per day operating for 7.25 years. Mining will be a combination of mechanized cut-and-fill (59%) and long hole stoping (41%). The minimum mining width is 2 metres. Average stope width varies with mining method from 3.2 metres to 7.2 metres. Ore is moved to surface via a combination of ramp trucking and shaft skipping. Trucking will be utilised above 8 Level. Material from 8 Level and below will be trucked to a Main Shaft loading pocket at 12 Level and from there skipped to surface. Rehabilitation of the Madsen Main Shaft is well underway. The PFS includes the cost for the continued rehabilitation and refurbishment of Madsen Main Shaft to allow for skipping from 12 Level. The Main Shaft is currently dewatered to 15 Level; dewatering will continue to allow for access to the lowest levels of the mine. Once the mine is dewatered on 20 Level, a new shaft will be excavated to surface in two lifts using raiseboring methods. This Madsen East Shaft will supply ventilation to the lower reaches of the mine, allow for skipping of material and slinging of heavy equipment, and allow for possible future expansion at depth. Steady state waste production is approximately 1,200 tpd. Care has been taken to optimize the backfill of waste rock into historic stopes and new excavations. The existing Madsen mill contains a working Hydraulic Fill (HF) plant that the previous owners commissioned (but did not use). West Red Lake Gold will recommission the plant to pipe HF to the historic voids underground. HF is a way of backfilling underground workings using tailings from the mill, adding a binder (a low percentage of cement), and pumping the resulting slurry back underground. HF backfill provides an environmentally friendly way of disposing of tailings and provides a stable geotechnical environment for mining. Once the HF is decanted and cured, it is strong enough to mine immediately adjacent to, allowing the Company to optimize the extraction of ore around old stopes. The mine is primarily ventilated via the Madsen Main Shaft and the West Ramp. The main fans are situated underground, on 12 Level. Air is downcast through the Main Shaft and is allowed to exhaust via the ramp. Once completed in year 4, the East Shaft will significantly enhance the ventilation to the lower reaches of the mine. A connection between the West and East ramps is being driven (the Connection Drift) that will assist in efficiencies for ventilation between the two districts. Currently, the East section of the mine (a much smaller section) is ventilated via the West through old workings. The air heater is situated near the Madsen Main shaft on surface. Processing At steady state operation, an average of 800 tpd of material will be processed in a plant that consists of primary crushing, followed by grinding to 80% passing 75 m using a semi-autogenous grinding mill and ball mill. Gravity concentration will recover gold from the SAG screen undersize and ball mill discharge. Cyclone overflow will be thickened to 50% solids in a pre-leach thickener, then pre-aerated with oxygen followed by a 24-hour cyanide leach at a cyanide concentration of 150-170 ppm and a pH of 11.0 in five leach tanks. Gold in solution will then be recovered via carbon-in-pulp (CIP) adsorption in six CIP tanks with a residence time of five hours, followed by acid wash, elution, and refining to produce gold dore on site. After cyanide destruction, the CIP tailings will be pumped to the tailings management facility initially. Starting later in year 1, a thickened tailings will be pumped into open stopes using a hydraulic backfill system. The process plant gold recovery is estimated to average 95.7% over the LOM. Figure 2: Average Annual Ore Production and Grade Infrastructure The Madsen Mine is adjacent to the community of Madsen, within the Red Lake Municipality of northwestern Ontario. Highway 618, a paved and provincially maintained road, connects the community and mine to the town of Red Lake 10 km to the northeast. Mining and mineral exploration is the primary industry in the Red Lake region; as a result, there is a full range of services and supplies for mineral exploration and mining and a strong pool of skilled labour. All infrastructure needed to restart the Madsen Mine pursuant to this PFS plan is already in place. The mine has two underground access portals with ramps, over 21 km of modern underground development (from 2019 onward), a 1,275-metre shaft with a retrofitted and functional hoist mechanism, a processing facility with nameplate 1,089-tpd capacity built 2019-2020 (currently permitted for 800 tpd operations), a tailings facility also built 2019-2020 that saw a 4-foot dam lift in summer 2024, an office complex, a geology and core logging compound, and basic mine dry, maintenance, and warehouse facilities. Further infrastructure projects currently underway include a 1.2-km tunnel that connects the two portals (on track for completion in March 2025), a 114-person workforce accommodations facility (on track for completion mid-February 2025), and a mine dry facility (on track for completion end February 2025). The Madsen Mine is connected via a dedicated substation to the provincial hydroelectrical power grid and will access power at $0.12 per kilowatt hour. Workforce The Madsen Mine is expected to utilize a workforce of 221 people during steady state operations. There are currently approximately 140 workers employed, of which approximately 60% live locally. Tailings and Mine Rock Tailings will be managed through a combination of surface storage in the Tailings Management Facility (TMF) and underground deposition as hydraulic backfill. The TMF at the Madsen Mine is permitted to discharge tailings and will be expanded to manage a total of 1.6 Mt. The TMF is partitioned into two designated areas, Cell A and the Main TMF. Containment for the first four years of tailings deposition will be provided in Cell A, with the remainder of the tailings managed in the Main TMF. Cell A is fully constructed and ready for operation, including a 4-meter dam raise that was completed in summer 2024. The Main Dam will be constructed downstream of the existing polishing pond dams in year 4 to raise the perimeter crest elevation of the TMF and provide storage capacity for the remaining tailings. The two areas of the TMF offer sufficient capacity for supernatant ponds, surplus water storage, and flood water management. Mine rock from underground development will be managed in the underground mine as backfill (42%) and stored in the existing mine rock management facility located adjacent to the TMF (58%). Multiple void historic stopes create good opportunity to store waste rock underground, thereby reducing costs. Capital Expenditure Modest expenditure requirement remains to get the Madsen Mine into production, slated for Q2 2025. Outstanding costs are modest because the historic Madsen Mine was rebuilt from 2019-2020, operating until late 2022 before shutting down. The rebuild established significant new infrastructure at the site, including the 800-tpd process plant, the West Portal, the tailings management facility, the water treatment plant, and 19 km of underground workings. Since purchasing the Madsen Mine in June 2023, West Red Lake Gold has invested significant capital into projects the Company identified as necessary for a successful restart. This includes a 4-meter dam raise in Cell A of the TMF, a new primary crusher, the 1.2-km Connection Drift, a camp, a mine dry facility, many additions to the mining fleet, and over 2 km of underground workings. Sustaining Capital The mine requires $434 million in sustaining capital over its 7.2-year mine life, of which $9.1 million is closure and rehabilitation costs. Mining development, additional equipment, replacement units, and major repairs make up the consistent parts of sustaining capital. Rehabilitation of the Main Shaft and development of the East Shaft are the largest capital projects during the life of mine. West Red Lake Gold has already rehabilitated the hoisting mechanism in the headframe of the Main Shaft; the shaft itself now requires rehabilitation to be able to move material out of the mine starting in year 2. Year 1 see $22.5 million in sustaining capital allocated to this project. The East Shaft is developed in years 3 and 4, at an estimated cost of $52 million. It will be raisebored once bottom access has been established via Madsen Main shaft, resulting in significant savings compared to blind sinking a shaft. During operations, mining generally follows the mineralized system northeast and downplunge. By year 4 the ventilation system centered on the Main Shaft is no longer sufficient and so a new vent raise is required. A cost-benefit analysis found a net savings in developing a skipping shaft, versus a simple vent raise, because it would cost approximately $20 per tonne to truck material to surface from the Madsen Deeps area versus approximately $4 per tonne to hoist material. This difference covers the $20 million additional cost of the full shaft over the vent raise, making the capital project a net benefit in this mine plan. Beyond the PFS mine plan, the gold system at Madsen remains open at depth. Several deep historic intercepts returned good gold intercepts. If exploration is successful in defining resources downplunge of the reserves in this PFS, the East Shaft is well located to potentially render such resources economic to mine. Operating Costs Life of Mine (LOM) total operating cost is estimated at $322.67 per tonne of ore, as summarized in Table 2 below. The LOM total AISC is estimated to be US$1681 per oz. gold produced. As noted in the Upside Potential section, the Company sees strong potential to create a more continuous reserve body, through this drilling work and through the practical application of a higher reserve cut-off grade. Table 2: Operating Costs Mining $212.93 per tonne Processing $75.25 per tonne General & Administrative $33.90 per tonne Tailings $0.59 per tonne Total $322.67 per tonne Financial Analysis Using an average gold price of US$2317 per oz. and a US:CDN exchange rate of 1.4, the Madsen Mine project generates an after-tax NPV of $315 using 5% discount rate and an after-tax IRR of 255%. The Project generates cumulative post-tax net cash flow of $391 million and average annual free cash flow of $69.5 million over the 6-year full production period. Total taxes payable over the LOM at the assumed gold price are negligible because the combination of the significant tax losses that were acquired with the purchase of the project and the continued costs incurred on exploration and development cover the majority of the revenue considered in this mine plan. Table 3: Key Operating, Cost, and Revenue Metrics Total 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2030 2032 Mill Throughput (kt) 1,823 141.4 292.6 287.2 284.0 292.8 292.8 198.0 33.6 Average Grade (g/t) 8.16 8.2 7.2 7.8 8.0 7.9 7.8 11.7 6.0 Production (kozs) 457.9 35.3 63.6 67.7 70.0 70.8 70.8 73.2 6.4 Gold Price (US$ per oz.) $2317 (average) $2,600 $2500 $2450 $2200 $2200 $2200 $2200 $2200 Net Revenue ($M) $1,464.5 $127.1 $220.2 $229.8 $213.2 $215.8 $215.7 $223.1 $19.6 Operating Costs ($M) - $588.1 - $57.1 - $89.7 - $87.1 - $89.5 - $88.3 - $90.8 - $72.8 - $12.7 Operating Cash Flow ($M) $876.4 $70.0 $130.5 $142.7 $123.7 $127.5 $124.9 $150.3 $6.9 Capital Expenditure + Working Capital ($M) - $484.7 - $90.4 - $77.2 - $91.8 - $93.7 - $58.5 - $27.8 - $28.3 - $11.0 Free Cash Flow ($M) $391.8 - $20.4 $53.3 $50.9 $30.0 $69.0 $97.1 $122.0 -$4.2 Average Annual Free Cash Flow (6 Full Production Years) ($M) $69.5 Table 4: Net Present Value ($M) Sensitivity to Gold Price, Opex, Capex -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% Gold Price $68 $192 $315 $407 $496 Opex $388 $352 $315 $267 $218 Capex $382 $349 $315 $272 $229 Table 5: Net Present Value ($M) Sensitivity to US:CDN Exchange Rate US:CDN Exchange Rate 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50 NPV (5%) $227 $271 $315 $349 $382 Permitting and Environment The Madsen Mine is permitted for operations. The Madsen Mine was put into Temporary Suspension, per the Mining Act, in October 2022. Since then, environmental monitoring and reporting have continued. It is expected that the Mine will transition from Temporary Suspension to Production status in Q1 2025. In preparation for restart, West Red Lake Gold has met with Madsen Mine stakeholders including Indigenous partners, the Madsen Advisory group, and the Municipality of Red Lake to communicate plans and receive input. The Company has worked to focus contracting on local suppliers where possible. Site plans for the new camp and mine dry were discussed with the community and approved by the Municipality. Public meetings have focused on communicating restart plans, with emphasis on employment opportunities. As part of future operations, West Red Lake Gold will update existing permits such as Environmental Compliance Approval for the Water Treatment Plant and the Closure Plan. Mineral Resource Estimate The mineral resource statement for the Madsen Mine deposits is provided in Table 6, with an effective date of December 31, 2021. The mineral resources have been adjusted to reflect the removal of all historical and recent production to the end of December 2021. The mineral resources are inclusive of mineral reserves and have been classified according to CIM Best Practise Guidelines (November 2019) and are reported as undiluted tonnes at a cut-off grade of 3.38 g/t gold and gold price of US$1800/oz. (Table 5). The mining activity from the effective date of the mineral resource until the suspension of the Madsen Mine has been deemed immaterial. Based on the mining records, 164,604 tonnes of ore at 3.8 g/t grade were processed, resulting in the production and sale of 20,301 ounces of gold. This production figure is not considered significant for the purpose of this report and the mining activity during the period from January 1, 2022 to the mine's transition to care and maintenance on October 24, 2022 will not have a material impact on the mineral resource estimates presented in this report. Since the effective date of the mineral resource, additional diamond drilling was conducted until the mine closure on October 24, 2022. A total of 688 drill holes and 54,122 m of drilling was completed in 2022. An additional 205 drill holes and 19,872 m of drilling was completed by West Red Lake Gold between October 1, 2023 and May 15, 2024. Based on a review of the results of this drilling it has been determined by Cliff Revering, Qualified Person for the Madsen Mineral Resource Estimate, that the information obtained will not have a material impact on the mineral resource estimate presented in this report. Table 6: Mineral Resource Statement, Madsen Mine, Red Lake, Ontario, effective date December 31, 2021. Classification Deposit - Zone Tonnes Gold Grade (g/t) Gold Troy Ounces Indicated Madsen - Austin 4,147,000 6.9 914,200 Madsen -South Austin 1,696,000 8.7 474,600 Madsen - McVeigh 388,700 6.4 79,800 Madsen - 8 Zone 152,000 18 87,700 Fork 123,800 5.3 20,900 Russet 88,700 6.9 19,700 Wedge 313,700 5.6 56,100 Total Indicated 6,909,900 7.4 1,653,000 Inferred Madsen - Austin 504,800 6.5 104,900 Madsen -South Austin 114,100 8.7 31,800 Madsen - McVeigh 64,600 6.9 14,300 Madsen - 8 Zone 38,700 14.6 18,200 Fork 298,200 5.2 49,500 Russet 367,800 5.8 68,800 Wedge 431,100 5.7 78,700 Total Inferred 1,819,300 6.3 366,200 Mineral Reserve Estimate The mineral reserve statement for the Madsen Mine deposits is provided in Table 7, with an effective date of June 30, 2024. The mineral reserves have been adjusted to reflect the removal of all historical and recent production to the end of June 2024. The Life of Mine plan, which starts April 1, 2025, was also checked against the planned test mining program to ensure that any material extracted to March 31, 2025 was not from the mineral reserves. The mineral reserves have been estimated according to CIM Best Practice Guidelines (November 2019) and reported as diluted tonnes delivered to the mill. Access is via two existing ramps systems with the Madsen #2 Shaft currently being reconditioned down to 12-level (12L) to allow for skipping of ore in Q4 2025. A raisebored hoisting shaft (Madsen #3) is planned to allow future hoisting from 20L as Madsen #2 shaft does not have the required hoisting capacity from 24L. The current mineral reserves include ore down to 25L, which will be trucked up to the Madsen #3 Shaft for hoisting. Material sizing for both Madsen #2 and #3 shafts will utilize grizzlies and rockbreaker stations. Two underground mining methods are planned with 0.75 Mt (41%) being extracted by longhole (LH) mining methods and 1.07 Mt (59%) by mechanized cut-and-fill (MCF) mining methods. Stopes were designed using a LH cut-off grade of 4.30 g/t and a MCF cut-off grade of 5.28 g/t, using a gold price of US$1,680/oz. As a significant portion of the mining is remnant mining around historic workings, appropriate geotechnical constraints were also applied during the design process. LH stopes are longitudinal with an average mining width of 2.8 m, 35% dilution and 95% mining recovery. Dilution increases with depth. Three variations of the MCF mining method are defined based on the ground support requirements with operating costs estimated for each. These include: Normal MCF - average width 4.4 m, good ground conditions Historic MCF - average width 3.2 m, adjacent to filled historic stopes, requiring short rounds and in-cycle shotcrete 8 Zone MCF - average width 7.2 m (= two 3.6 m wide cuts of drift-and-fill mining method due to squeezing ground conditions, requiring short rounds and heavy support) MCF stopes are designed to use a breasting method with variable width and 3.5 m high to allow for full mechanization. Average dilution is 22% with 97% mining recovery. Short 2.4 m rounds were selected for geotechnical reasons as well as challenging grade control due to there being no visual distinction between ore and waste. The normal MCF stopes assume that the round length can increase to 3 m in 2026 with the implementation of successful grade control procedures. Stephen Taylor, Principal Mining Engineer with SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc., has overseen the development of the mineral reserve estimate and the Life of Mine plan in his role as Independent Qualified Person for the Madsen Mineral Reserve Estimate. Table 7: Mineral Reserve Statement, Madsen Mine, Red Lake, Ontario (Effective date June 30, 2024) Classification Deposit - Zone Tonnes (kt) Gold Grade (g/t) Contained Metal (koz Au) Probable Madsen - Austin 778 7.37 184 Madsen - South Austin 861 8.21 227 Madsen - McVeigh 66 7.37 16 Madsen - 8 Zone 118 13.38 51 Total Reserves 1,823 8.16 478 Notes: Mineral Reserves estimated in accordance with CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines, CIM, November 29, 2019. Longhole stope cut-off grade of 4.30 gpt Au based on an estimated operating cost of CAD287.34/t including mining, plant and G&A. The mining cost component was benchmarked based on an operating mine in Ontario. Mechanized Cut and Fill stope cut-off grade of 5.28 gpt Au based on an estimated operating cost of CAD354.90/t including mining, plant and G&A. Mineral reserve estimates based on a gold price of USD1680/oz and an exchange rate of 1.31 CAD/USD. Incremental development cut-off grade of 1 gpt Au. A small amount of incremental longhole tonnes were included at a cut-off grade of not less than 3.4 gpt Au, these must be immediately adjacent to economic stopes that will pay for the capital to access area. Qualified Persons The Prefeasibility Study was prepared for West Red Lake Gold by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. with input from AllNorth Consultants Ltd. (infrastructure), Nordmin Engineering Ltd. (shaft), Fuse Advisors (processing), and Knight Piesold Ltd. (tailings and waste rock). The following Qualified Persons ("QPs") from these firms have reviewed and approved technical information provided on the Masden Mine prefeasibility study presented in this news release. Stephen Taylor, MSc., Peng. SRK Principal Engineer. Professional Registration: Professional Engineers of Ontario #90365834. Area of Responsibility - underground mining (design, planning), underground mining cost estimate, mineral reserve statement, financial analysis Cliff Revering, P.Eng, CPAG, BE. SRK Geology Associate. Professional Registration: Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan #9764. Area of responsibility: geological resource and mineral resource statement Chris Dougherty, P.Eng. Nordmin President. Professional Registration: Professional Engineers of Ontario #90416876. Area of Responsibility: underground shaft rehabilitation and design (and associated cost estimate) Danny Ruane, P.Eng. Knight Piesold Ltd. Specialist Engineer. Professional Registration: Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia #100546532. Area of Responsibility: waste and water management, site-wide water balance (and associated cost estimate) Travis O'Farrell. P.Eng. Fuse Advisors Engineer. Professional Registration: Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia #46026. Area of Responsibility: processing and metallurgy (and associated cost estimate) The technical content of this press release has been prepared, reviewed, and approved by Mr. Will Robinson, P.Geo., Vice President Exploration of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd., and by Mr. Maurice Mostert, P.Eng., Vice President Technical Services of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. ABOUT WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. is a mineral exploration company that is publicly traded and focused on advancing and developing its flagship Madsen Gold Mine and the associated 47 km2 highly prospective land package in the Red Lake district of Ontario. The highly productive Red Lake Gold District of Northwest Ontario, Canada has yielded over 30 million ounces of gold from high-grade zones and hosts some of the world's richest gold deposits. WRLG also holds the wholly owned Rowan Property in Red Lake, with an expansive property position covering 31 km2 including three past producing gold mines - Rowan, Mount Jamie, and Red Summit. ON BEHALF OF WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES LTD. "Shane Williams" Shane Williams President & Chief Executive Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Gwen Preston Vice President Communications Tel: (604) 609-6132 Email: investors@wrlgold.com or visit the Company's website at https://www.westredlakegold.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. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL Drilling completed underground at the Madsen Mine consists of BQ-sized diamond drill core for definition drill programs and oriented NQ-sized diamond drill core for exploration focused drilling. All drill holes are systematically logged, photographed, and sampled by a trained geologist at the Madsen Mine core processing facility. Minimum allowable sample length is 0.5m. Maximum allowable sample length is 1.5m. Control samples (certified standards and uncertified blanks), along duplicates, are inserted at a target 5% insertion rate. Results are assessed for accuracy, precision, and contamination on an ongoing basis. The BQ-sized drill core is whole core sampled. The NQ-sized drill core is then cut lengthwise utilizing a diamond blade core saw along a line pre-selected by the geologist. To reduce sampling bias, the same side of drill core is sampled consistently utilizing the orientation line as reference. For those samples containing visible gold ("VG"), a trained geologist supervises the cutting/bagging of those samples, and ensures the core saw blade is 'cleaned' with a dressing stone following the VG sample interval. Bagged samples are then sealed with zip ties and transported by Madsen Mine personnel directly to SGS Natural Resource's Facility in Red Lake, Ontario for assay. Samples are then prepped by SGS, which consists of drying at 105C and crushing to 75% passing 2mm. A riffle splitter is then utilized to produce a 500g course reject for archive. The remainder of the sample is then pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns from which 50g is analyzed by fire assay and an atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) finish (SGS Code GO-FAA50V10). Samples returning gold values > 100 g/t Au are reanalyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50g sample (SGS Code GO_FAG50V). Samples with visible gold are also analyzed via metallic screen analysis (SGS code: GO_FAS50M). For multi-element analysis, samples are sent to SGS's facility in Burnaby, British Columbia and analyzed via four-acid digest with an atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) finish for 33-element analysis on 0.25g sample pulps (SGS code: GE_ICP40Q12). SGS Natural Resources analytical laboratories operates under a Quality Management System that complies with ISO/IEC 17025. The Madsen Mine deposit presently hosts a National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") Indicated resource of 1.65 million ounces ("Moz") of gold grading 7.4 g/t Au and an Inferred resource of 0.37 Moz of gold grading 6.3 g/t Au. Mineral resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 3.38 g/t Au and a gold price of US1,800/oz. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Please refer to the technical report entitled "Independent NI 43-101 Technical Report and Updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the PureGold Mine, Canada", prepared by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. and dated June 16, 2023, and amended April 24, 2024 (the "Madsen Report"). The Madsen Resource Estimate has an effective date of December 31, 2021 and excludes depletion of mining activity during the period from January 1, 2022 to the mine closure on October 24, 2022 as it has been deemed immaterial and not relevant for the purpose of the Madsen Report. A full copy of the Madsen Report is available on the Company's website and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as "anticipate", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "planned", and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this news release and include without limitation, statements relating to the Company's intended use of proceeds from the Credit Facility; final approval of the Loan Bonus Warrants by the TSXV, plans for the potential restart of mining operations at the Madsen Mine, the potential of the Madsen Mine; any untapped growth potential in the Madsen deposit or Rowan deposit; and the Company's future objectives and plans. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility; the state of the financial markets for the Company's securities; fluctuations in commodity prices; timing and results of the cleanup and recovery at the Madsen Mine; and changes in the Company's business plans. Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions, including without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and its ability to raise additional capital to proceed. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended November 30, 2023, and the Company's annual information form for the year ended November 30, 2023, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. __________ 1 SRK determines a reserve cut-off price based on the Energy and Metals Consensus Forecast from Consensus Economics Inc. dated April 2024, when the mine design parameters for this PFS were established. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/59a8cc10-7ce2-4835-8af4-1ad0643060ee https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/530cc0a9-5efc-4bc6-b2e6-4dc0b887bd3d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/650795ba-6d0c-4f55-9d66-df6447b32ec2 GOAL Aircraft Leasing (GOAL), a leading aircraft leasing and asset management company, has completed a successful sale and leaseback agreement with Porter Airlines for two (2) Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. The aircraft will be operated by Porter Airlines under long-term lease agreements. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107577122/en/ GOAL Aircraft Leasing and Porter Airlines complete Sale and Leaseback Agreement for Two new Embraer E195-E2 Aircraft (Photo: Business Wire) This transaction underscores GOAL's expertise in structuring customized leasing solutions that align with the operational and financial strategies of leading airlines. The sale and leaseback arrangement enables Porter Airlines to leverage the operational efficiencies of the next-generation Embraer E195-E2 aircraft while optimizing their capital allocation. Porter Airlines' recent addition of Embraer E195-E2 aircraft to its fleet enables the airline to serve longer routes and provide its passengers with an enhanced travel experience. This collaboration represents a significant partnership between GOAL and Porter, built on shared values of operational excellence and customer satisfaction. The two aircraft are part of the growing portfolio of KGAL's APF5 fund and reflect the asset manager's commitment to creating value for its airline partners and institutional investors. GOAL and Porter also recently entered into a finance lease agreement for three Dash 8-400 aircraft. Christian Schloemann, Managing Director of GOAL, commented: "We are excited to deepen our relationship with Porter Airlines and demonstrate our ability to offer flexible and competitive leasing solutions for cutting-edge aircraft like the Embraer E195-E2. We are proud to support Porter Airlines in expanding their fleet and strengthening their position as a leading airline in North America." Julian Low, Vice President, Corporate Development, Porter Airlines, added: "The Embraer E195-E2 is an exceptional aircraft and it is driving the growth of our network across North America. There continues to be strong interest from the leasing community in the E195-E2 and we look forward to working with GOAL over the long term." Watson Farley Williams (London) acted as lead counsel to GOAL, and Parr Brown Gee Loveless acted as lead counsel to Porter. Seabury Securities LLC acted as advisor and placement agent to Porter. About GOAL Aircraft Leasing GOAL is a joint venture of KGAL GmbH Co. KG, one of Germany's leading independent investment and asset managers with an investment volume of almost 16.0 billion and Deutsche Lufthansa AG, one of the world's premier carriers. GOAL currently owns and manages 68 aircraft with an investment volume of approximately US$3.0 billion. It has a broad experience in its core business of operating leasing, technical asset management and aircraft remarketing and has proven its professional know-how for more than 25 years. For further information visit www.goal-leasing.de About Porter Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter's fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline in the World Airline Star Rating. Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107577122/en/ Contacts: GOAL German Operating Aircraft Leasing GmbH Co. KG Christian Schloemann Managing Director Telefon +49 89 64143-386 E-Mail: christian.schloemann@goal-leasing.de Toelzer Strasse 15 82031 Gruenwald Germany Porter Airlines media@flyporter.com Crafting lanterns for the Chinese New Year in E China's Shandong People's Daily Online) 10:16, January 07, 2025 A lantern craftsman crafts lanterns for the Chinese New Year. (Photo/Zhang Jingang) As the Chinese New Year approaches, over 150 lantern craftsmen from southwest China's Sichuan Province are busy creating and assembling lantern displays at the China Railway Qingdao World Expo City in the Xihai'an (West Coast) New Area of Qingdao, east China's Shandong province. The Qingdao Spring Festival Lantern Art Festival will feature more than 50 large lantern displays, including themes such as "Peacock Welcoming Guests," "Good Luck in the Year of the Snake," "Loong Soaring China," "Fortune and Good Luck," "Phoenix Singing in Qingdao," and "Blooming Prosperity." The lantern exhibition will open to the public on the day of the Little New Year (a week before Chinese New Year) and continue throughout the Spring Festival holiday, attracting tourists and boosting cultural and tourism consumption. Lantern craftsmen craft and assemble lanterns for the Chinese New Year. (Photo/Zhang Jingang) A lantern craftsman crafts lanterns for the Chinese New Year. (Photo/Zhang Jingang) A lantern craftsman crafts lanterns for the Chinese New Year. (Photo/Zhang Jingang) Photo shows lanterns for the Chinese New Year. (Photo/Zhang Jingang) Intern Han Yifan contributed to this story. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) Regulatory News: Arverne Group (FR001400JWR8 ARVEN), a French industrial company specialized in the production of renewable underground resources to support the energy transition, announces that its subsidiary Lithium de France has agreed to acquire wellheads from global energy technology company SLB, for its geothermal heat and lithium project in Alsace. An initial order has been placed for equipment to be manufactured in Europe and delivered in Alsace ahead of the start of the drilling campaign. The geothermal heat and lithium project led by Arverne Group and Lithium de France, in Alsace, plans to reach, in 2031, an annual production capacity of 27,000 tons lithium carbonate and 2.2 TWh of geothermal heat. The heat produced will benefit businesses, farmers and local authorities in the Alsace region through a localized supply chain. The low carbon geothermal lithium will be dedicated to supply batteries for electric vehicles produced in France. "Our teams are particularly thrilled to work together, with the same innovation DNA to accelerate decarbonization and the same roots, as SLB and Lithium de France have both their origin in the Alsace region, around Pechelbronn, in 1926 and 2020. Our geothermal heat and lithium project paves the way for reliable energy thanks to science, engineering and know-how developed by committed people." Said Pierre Brossollet, founder and Chairman CEO at Arverne Group, mission-driven company listed on the Tech Leaders segment of Euronext Paris. Next publication: March 26, 2025, FY 2024 results (after Paris stock market closing time) About Arverne Group Arverne Group specializes in harnessing underground resources to transform them into environmentally friendly, local and renewable energy, contributing to the prosperity of local communities. As an integrated industrial player, Arverne Group spans the entire underground value chain, from exploration to drilling and production to sales to end-users. Arverne Group aims to become the French leader in geothermal energy and its by-products, including low-carbon geothermal lithium. Founded in Pau in 2018, Arverne Group has structured its business activities around several subsidiaries, notably 2gre (sale of geothermal heat), Lithium de France (geothermal heat and extraction and sale of geothermal lithium) and Arverne Drilling Services (drilling operations). A mission-driven company, Arverne Group is listed on the Tech Leaders segment of Euronext Paris (ISIN FR001400JWR8, symbol ARVEN). www.arverne.earth About Lithium de France Lithium de France, subsidiary of Arverne Group, a mission-driven company listed on the Tech Leaders segment of Euronext Paris, is a French pioneer of geothermal heat and low carbon lithium. Lithium de France has been founded in 2020, its mission is to accelerate the energy transition by supplying geothermal heat to businesses, farmers, and local authorities, and by producing geothermal lithium for electric mobility. It is an innovative leader with its headquarters based in Haguenau, Northern Alsace. www.lithiumdefrance.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107120953/en/ Contacts: Media Relations: communication@arverne.earth arvernegroup@image7.fr Investor Relations: investor.relations@arverne.earth alexandre.commerot@seitosei-actifin.com Regulatory News: The combined shareholders' meeting of Elior Group (Paris:ELIOR) whose shares are listed on Euronext Paris will take place on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. atthe Amphitheater of the Derichebourg Multiservices Tower, 51 Chemin des Meches 94000 Creteil France. The statutory notice of meeting (in French only) was published in France's official legal journal (BALO) on December 20, 2024. In addition, in accordance with applicable regulations, the statutory notice of meeting which includes the agenda, proposed resolutions and information on how to participate in and vote at the Meeting are available for consultation on the Company's website at www.eliorgroup.com (under Investors/ Annual Shareholders' Meeting). The information on total number of voting rights and shares in the capital on the date of the statutory notice of meeting is available on the Company's website at the above-mentioned address, from today's date. All the documents and information relating to the combined shareholders' meeting are made available to shareholders at the Company's head office at 9-11 allee de l'Arche 92032 Paris La Defense Cedex, France, in accordance with applicable regulations. Subject to the limits and timeframes provided for by applicable laws and regulations, shareholders may ask that these documents be sent directly to them by submitting a written request to Uptevia Assemblee Generale 90-110 Esplanade du General de Gaulle, 92931 Paris La Defense Cedex France. ELIOR GROUP Societe anonyme Head office: 9-11 allee de l'Arche, Paris la Defense cedex (92032) 408 168 003 R.C.S. Nanterre Listing Market: Euronext Paris Eurolist segment B ISIN code: FR0011950732 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107076953/en/ Contacts: ELIOR GROUP DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bybit , the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has added the trending Solana-based AI token, AI16Z, to Bybit Spot on Jan. 6, 2025. The official listing came on the heels of AI16Z's success on ByVotes , and was followed by a 24-hour gain of 47% after listing on Bybit. AI16Z was the first ByVotes project to have garnered vast community support for Spot Listing on Bybit in 2025. Since the revamp of the platform, ByVotes has attracted a wave of quality projects from the niche to the high profile. Under the new mechanisms, the Bybit community now has a direct impact on choosing projects for listing on the exchange by casting their votes of confidence via ByVotes. A number of fan favorites made their mark on ByVotes in the past year, including AI-themed LUNAI with a record number of 512 million votes, and other iconic memecoins such as CHILLGUY, LUCE, NEIROCTO, and HPOS10I. Users may still unlock exclusive rewards trading AI16Z on Bybit Spot in two events: Token Splash and Puzzle Hunt, each with a 50,000 AI16Z prize pool. The token attracted over 72,000 Bybit users in the pre-listing round of community votes on ByVotes, and received some 300,000,000 votes in the two-day voting period. AI16Z on Bybit Spot Bybit users have the opportunities to get more out of their AI16Z trades on Bybit: AI16Z Token Splash : the newly listed token comes with a 50,000 AI16Z prize pool for both new and seasoned traders. From now to Jan. 20, 2025, the first 3,500 eligible new users to successfully complete two simple tasks will receive 10 AI16Z each . In addition, existing users stand to earn up to 1,000 AI16Z by trading the token. : the newly listed token comes with a 50,000 AI16Z prize pool for both new and seasoned traders. From now to Jan. 20, 2025, the first 3,500 eligible new users to successfully complete two simple tasks will receive . In addition, existing users stand to earn by trading the token. AI16Z Puzzle Hunt : A new puzzle hunt for 50,000 AI16Z has kicked off on Bybit. From now to Jan. 21, Bybit users may earn or exchange puzzle pieces for a chance to win from the lucky draw, and the luckiest first 200 users to complete the entire puzzle will get to claim 50 AI16Z. Registration is required for both events, terms and conditions apply. AI16Z are also available for trades via Bybit Spot Grid Bots . Since Dec. 25, 2024, the native token of the world's first investment DAO led by AI agents has doubled in market cap after the listing, well past the $2 billion mark as of this week. Leading the way as blockchain's decentralized answer to traditional VC, the DAO fuses AI's advanced power with crypto's meme culture to raise the bar for intelligent decentralized governance. Powered by the Eliza Framework, the face of the ai16z is AI Marc who is a brainchild of Marc Andreessen. Bybit / TheCryptoArk Bybit is the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com . For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com For updates, please follow: Bybit's Communities and Social Media Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592562/Bybit_Joins_AI_Coin_Revolution_AI16Z_Listing.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2267288/Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybit-joins-ai-coin-revolution-with-ai16z-listing-302344710.html Fort Mitchell, Kentucky--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - HelloPrenup, the premier online platform for prenuptial agreements, is thrilled to announce the addition of Attorney Ashley Sexton, an experienced family law attorney, to its network of attorneys. Based in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, Ashley will bring her expertise and dedication to HelloPrenup's mission of making prenuptial agreements accessible, affordable, and user-friendly for couples across the state. With a strong background in family law and a passion for empowering couples with the tools they need to build successful futures, Ashley Sexton has become a trusted name in the Kentucky family law community. Her firm, Ashley Sexton Law, focuses on guiding clients through family law matters with compassion and professionalism, making her an ideal partner for HelloPrenup. "We are excited to welcome Ashley Sexton to the HelloPrenup network," said Julia Rodgers, CEO and Founder of HelloPrenup. "Her dedication to helping couples navigate important financial and legal decisions aligns perfectly with our mission. With Ashley on board, we can now extend services to couples in Kentucky, providing them with the legal support they need during such a pivotal moment in their lives." As one of HelloPrenup's attorney partners for Kentucky, Ashley Sexton will be available to represent customers who choose to integrate legal counsel into their prenuptial agreement process. She will also contribute educational resources and insights to HelloPrenup's blog and community, further enhancing the platform's commitment to empowering couples with knowledge. "I am honored to join HelloPrenup as their attorney partner in Kentucky. Prenuptial agreements are a vital tool for couples to plan their futures with clarity and confidence, and HelloPrenup's innovative platform makes this process more accessible than ever. I look forward to helping Kentucky couples navigate this important step in their journey together, combining HelloPrenup's technology with personalized legal guidance." HelloPrenup continues to expand its reach by partnering with esteemed attorneys across the country. With Ashley Sexton joining the platform, couples in Kentucky can now access tailored legal advice and seamless prenuptial agreement drafting, ensuring their interests are protected and their futures are built on a solid foundation. For more information about Ashley Sexton, visit her website at www.ashleysextonlaw.com. About HelloPrenup HelloPrenup is the leading online platform revolutionizing the way prenuptial agreements are created. By combining technology and legal expertise, HelloPrenup provides couples with an accessible, affordable, and collaborative approach to prenups. With over 46 states, HelloPrenup empowers couples to take control of their financial futures together. To learn more, visit www.helloprenup.com. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236288 SOURCE: Hello Prenup Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - PreveCeutical Medical Inc. (CSE: PREV) (OTCQB: PRVCF) (FSE: 18H) ("PreveCeutical" or the "Company"), a health sciences company that develops innovative options for preventive and curative therapies utilizing organic and nature-identical products, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary BioGene Therapeutics Inc. today announced its participation in the upcoming 43rd JP Morgan Healthcare Conference, taking place January 13-16, 2025, in San Francisco, CA. BioGene's leadership team, including Dr. Harry Parekh (Chief Research Officer & Scientific Founder), Dr. Deepak Sampath (Board Member), Steve Glover (Board Member), and Patroski J. Lawson (Board Member), will be attending the conference and participating in meetings. If there is any interest in meeting with our team, please send us your information to info@biogenetherapeutics.com. Stephen Van Deventer, CEO of BioGene, commented: "Having our Scientific Founder and highly experienced team members at the JP Morgan Conference will be of great value in showcasing the work we have accomplished and intend to further this coming year." About PreveCeutical Medical Inc. PreveCeutical is a health sciences company that develops innovative options for preventive and curative therapies utilizing organic and nature identical products. PreveCeutical aims to be a leader in preventive health sciences and currently has five research and development programs, including: dual gene therapy for curative and prevention therapies for diabetes and obesity; the Sol-gel Program; Nature Identical peptides for treatment of various ailments; nonaddictive analgesic peptides as a replacement to the highly addictive analgesics such as morphine, fentanyl and oxycodone; and a therapeutic product for treating athletes who suffer from concussions (mild traumatic brain injury). For more information about PreveCeutical, please visit www.PreveCeutical.com, follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/PreveCeuticals and Facebook: www.facebook.com/PreveCeutical. About BioGene Therapeutics Inc. BioGene Therapeutics Inc. ("BioGene") is a Texas-based life sciences company focused on advancing innovative therapies in metabolic health and gene-based treatments. As a key component of BioGene's expansion, BioGene Australia operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of BioGene in Texas, leveraging the strategic benefits of Australia's 43.5% R&D tax cashback incentive. This subsidiary supports ongoing research and development activities in Australia, where BioGene capitalizes on exceptional scientific talent and the nation's commitment to advancing life sciences. Currently, BioGene Australia is engaged in pioneering research into GLP-1 receptor agonists and advanced diabetes treatments, including gene therapies designed to address the growing global diabetes and obesity crisis. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, PreveCeutical Medical Inc. & BioGene Therapeutics Inc. "Stephen Van Deventer" Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding receipt of regulatory and other consents and approvals for the Acquisition; PreveCeutical, PreveCeutical Australia, and BioGene completing the Acquisition as contemplated by the Agreement; PreveCeutical receiving the necessary regulatory and other consents and approvals for the Distribution; and PreveCeutical completing the Distribution as contemplated above. The forward-looking statements reflect management's current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements including adverse market conditions and other factors beyond the control of the parties. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, accordingly, undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include general market conditions and other factors beyond the control of the Company; regulations and policies affecting the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry adversely affecting the future results or performance of PreveCeutical or BioGene; the Company's failure to obtain the required consents and approvals for the Acquisition and the Distribution; and the Company determining that the Distribution is not an optimal strategy following tax and business consultations. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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 release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236289 SOURCE: PreveCeutical Medical Inc. Narwal Flow, which sets a new benchmark for robot vacuums, shines at CES 2025, exploring more possibilities for future smart cleaning experiences. Narwal debuts its latest Narwal Z10 Ultra with Innovative Mop Extension, highlighting Narwal's commitment to boost robot vacuum markets based on consumer demand. Narwal Freo Z Ultra was awarded the CES Innovation Award, showcasing the company's strong innovative capabilities in the robot vacuum industry. LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Narwal , the international leader in smart home cleaning, is today showcasing a range of its latest innovative robot vacuum technologies at Consumer Electronics Show 2025 (CES 2025). During the event, Narwal is not only debuting its new generation of its premium robot vacuum, Narwal Flow Series, but also introduces a number of industry-leading innovations based on its theme "Clean Science, Intelligent Technology", such as Mop Extension on the upcoming Narwal Freo Z10 Ultra. By delivering enhanced, intelligent smart cleaning experiences through these innovations, Narwal is reinforcing its position as a future-focused company that seeks to unlock new possibilities for smart cleaning solutions. "The most important aspect of Narwal's products is to simplify and elevate daily life through intelligent design and ultimate convenience," said Junbin Zhang, CEO of Narwal. "Unlike any other commercially available products, the Narwal Flow functions intelligently. It introduces industry-moving developments, like FlowWash Mopping, EdgeReach, and its Deep Carpet Boost can double the pick-up rate compared to the industry standard. The Narwal Flow Series is posed to be the Ultimate Cleaning Solution." Revolutionizing the Smart Cleaning Experience, Narwal will Introduce New Standards for Robot Vacuums in 2025 The Narwal Flow Series is Narwal's most advanced all-in-one cleaning solution, incorporating industry-first features like FlowWash Mopping System and Deep Carpet Boost to deliver a maintenance-free, top-tier cleaning experience for those who demand the highest standards without the hassle. The intelligent system adapts to real-time self-cleaning methods including a track mop design equipped with dual water tanks to apply fresh water while extracting dirty water. The EdgeReach technology extends the track mop to clean edges with unmatched precision. The Freo Z10 on the other hand is a premium all-in-one robot vacuum designed for those seeking high-end cleaning technology. Offering powerful performance and maintenance-free features, it's the ideal solution for households that demand efficiency and quality without the need for constant upkeep. The Narwal Freo Z10 also applies 8N downward pressure with 180 RPM mop pads that brings flawless floors even at the corner spots. Both Narwal Flow Series and Freo Z10 will be launched in the year of 2025. As the pioneer in cutting-edge home cleaning solutions, Narwal has earned global acclaim for its user-focused designs, including the Auto-Washing Mop and Auto Water Exchange System. In 2024, Narwal set the standard for robot vacuum technology, advancing the industry through its tangle-free systems, advanced obstacle avoidance, and whisper-quiet operation. Introduced in late 2024, The Narwal Freo Z Ultra has already been awarded a CES Innovation Award and sold out within the first three months of its commercial launch. To experience Narwal's innovations and products first-hand, please visit Narwal's booth in (Booth No. 51932), Halls A-D, Level 2 in the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas from January 7 to January 11, 2025. For further details, please also refer to the Narwal CES 2025 official website. About Narwal Narwal is known for using its cutting-edge technology to realize its objective of bringing flawless floors to users. It's one of the top 5 robotic cleaning manufacturers, with the brand achieving $200 million in sales within two years of introducing its first product and maintaining high double-digit annual growth ever since. Narwal has raised substantial funds from investors including Sequoia Capital, Hillhouse Capital, ByteDance (parent of TikTok), and Tencent, among others. With over 700 researchers and scientists from across the globe, Narwal has made numerous breakthroughs in multiple fields and won prestigious international awards, including the Edison Gold Award, which honors innovation, and Time Magazine's Best Inventions. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592470/Header.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/narwal-showcases-its-latest-flow-series-and-a-lineup-of-robot-vacuum-innovations-at-ces-2025-302344380.html WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - In the recent weeks, human metapneumovirus or HPMV cases have been spiking across China and several other countries, sparking rumors about a potential pandemic.HMPV, similar to a cold, infects human cells to multiply itself and spreads through the body, causing symptoms, such as cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, and shortness of breath. The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing, as well as close human contact.The virus poses a serious threat to young kids under five, adults aged over 65, and individuals with weakened immune system. While there is no vaccine or specific cure for HPMV, drinking fluids, taking rest and using over-the-counter drugs might improve the condition.A World Health Organization spokesperson told to ABC News that the data from China indicated 'a recent rise in acute respiratory infections', emphasizing that 'the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year.'In the U.S., cases of HMPV have been rising since November 2024. As of December 28, 2024, 1.94 percent of weekly tests for respiratory infections came out positive for HMPV, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.'This is that winter respiratory virus season, indeed,' Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, explained to 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 added.HMPV cases have been also reported in India. As of January 7, two cases were reported in Bengaluru, and one each in Ahmedabad, Chennai and Salem, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research.'Health experts have clarified that the HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world for many years,' Indian Health Minister J. P. Nadda reassured the public. 'The health systems and surveillance networks of the country are vigilant and there is no reason to worry.'Copyright(c) 2025 RTTNews.com. All Rights ReservedCopyright RTT News/dpa-AFX WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Alaska Airlines, a Washington-based American Airline which is a subsidiary of Alaska Air Group (ALK), Tuesday announced the launching of seasonal nonstop flights connecting Anchorage to both Detroit and Sacramento for the first time, while also reinstating nonstop service between Fairbanks and Portland.This summer, Alaska Airlines will launch seasonal nonstop flights from Anchorage to Detroit and Sacramento for the first time in the upcoming summer season, while resuming nonstop service between Fairbanks and Portland.New seasonal nonstop flights: Anchorage to Detroit and Anchorage to Sacramento begin June 14, 2025, bringing Anchorage's total nonstop destinations to its highest number of nonstop destinations from Anchorage, featuring 15 routes, the most ever offered in the summer, including routes to the Lower 48 and Hawaii.The company also resumed its daily non-stop flight services for the Fairbanks to Portland route starting on May 15, 2025.Tuesday, ALK is currently trading at $66.29 or 2.94% higher.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. AT&T is the leading NG911 Service Provider in the United States with direct contracts covering a population of over 80 million and a market share of approximately 30%. SAN ANTONIO, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan recently researched the next-generation 911 market and, based on its analysis, recognizes AT&T with the 2024 US Market Leadership Award, for the sixth consecutive year. The company's comprehensive and transformational approach to public safety enhances situational awareness, expands incident intelligence, and dramatically improves outcomes during critical events. In particular, the convergence of FirstNet with AT&T's Emergency Services IP Network (AT&T ESInet) enables an ecosystem where citizens and connected assets can send IP-based communications to emergency call centers (ECCs) that can efficiently consolidate and forward this information to the appropriate first responders, dramatically improving emergency response efforts. The AT&T ESInet service model has been in production since 2018, and it provides a nationally distributed, geographically diverse, and redundant service architecture designed to enhance the customer service experience. AT&T has a nationwide network of data centers co-located with existing 911 databases across the United States that provide pre-deployed call processing. As a pre-built, 12 core national solution, the architecture is unique from competitive offerings and allows ECCs to manage unexpected call volumes by automatically redistributing calls to neighboring ECCs. NG911 represents an industry transformation that proactively enhances public safety by acknowledging and catering to citizens' rapidly evolving demands, products, lifestyles, and technologies. In contrast to the legacy voice-centric E911 network, NG911 supports a more diverse set of IP-based communications that enhance the speed, accuracy, and preparation of first responders. AT&T's managed, as-a-service model for NG911 addresses the concerns of risk-adverse 911 state administrators that often lack the resources, expertise, or patience to manage the complexities of NG911 in-house. The AT&T ESInet is backed by standard service level agreements (SLAs) for availability, call delivery, call quality, and provisioning. This approach provides customers with a consistent and reliable experience for predictable provisioning and implementation. Brent Iadarola, vice president at Frost & Sullivan, observed, "AT&T's carrier pedigree and solutions architecture, coupled with the ability to demonstrate and showcase proven NG911 deployments, have emerged as key differentiators in a highly competitive environment. As a network operator, AT&T has an inherent advantage over many competitors with respect to connectivity pricing, regulatory experience, and security operations." Successful NG911 deployments and momentum in capturing new contracts are a testament to AT&T's customer purchase experience. AT&T now has approximately 2,000 contracted ECCs, of which over 80% are actively deployed or processing live NG911 production. Moreover, AT&T has demonstrated clear leadership in securing interoperability agreements with all the tier 1 US carriers. "AT&T's N911 solution enables an array of innovative features and functionality that significantly expand public safety capabilities and allow citizens to efficiently relay text, data, video, and IP-based voice calls via 911 in emergency situations. AT&T has continued to sustain a strong market leadership position in NG911 by leveraging a legacy of proven performance in the public safety sector, coupled with an NG911 solution architecture that uniquely embraces innovation with a roadmap to FirstNet integration," added Iadarola. With its strong overall performance AT&T, once again, earns Frost & Sullivan's Market Leadership Award in the US NG911 market. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has developed an innovative element in a product by leveraging leading-edge technologies. The award recognizes the value-added features/benefits of the product and the increased ROI it offers customers, which, in turn, raises customer acquisition and overall market penetration potential. Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry. About Frost & Sullivan For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, megatrends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion. Contact us: Start the discussion. Contact: Ashley Shreve E: ashley.shreve@frost.com About AT&T We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2592689/Frost_and_Sullivan__AT__T_Award__Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/att-applauded-by-frost--sullivan-for-proactively-enhancing-public-safety-with-next-generation-911-ng911-302344664.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Canada Rare Earth Corp. (TSXV: LL) ("Canada Rare Earth" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with a private Laos-based company that gives Canada Rare Earth the right to purchase 70% of a recently fully permitted rare earth refinery (the "Refinery") designed and built to process rare earth concentrates and produce the entire suite of commercially traded rare earth oxides, including both light and heavy rare earth elements (the "Acquisition"). The Refinery has a rare earth oxide production capacity of 3,000 tonnes per year (tpy) and was constructed twelve years ago. The refinery has not operated since being built due to a historical Lao PDR policy change affecting rare earth processing. These policies are now reversed and the government is strongly supporting the startup and operation of the Refinery. The government is encouraging in-country processing of locally produced rare earth concentrates to increase economic benefits from the numerous new ion adsorption clay rare earth mines located in Northern Laos. These new sources of rare earth concentrates have greatly enhanced the operating situation for the Laos Refinery by reducing the risk of consistent concentrate supply. The Refinery will be ready for commissioning after some relatively modest refurbishments, expected to be complete in Q4 2025. The economic benefits to Laos of in-country beneficiation versus the exportation of raw materials are evident to the Lao government and that understanding, combined with an updated Environmental Impact Assessment at the Refinery, have contributed to the issuance of all required licenses and permits required for the Refinery's operation. Canada Rare Earth has entered into discussions with numerous interested parties for offtake and potential investment at the project level. These discussions are expected to result in pre-payments and associated credit facilities to support the operation of the Refinery based on preferred terms for a secure annual supply of key rare earth oxides such as Nd, Pr, Dy, and Tb. Peter Shearing, Chief Executive Officer of Canada Rare Earth, commented, "Selecting the right offtake partner and project funders & lenders are critical decisions and must ensure the alignment of both parties' objectives for the relationship to be both a commercial and strategic success. We are approaching this carefully and selectively to ensure the Refinery delivers the most value to the rare earth market, consumers, and our shareholders." Rare Earth Mine Development Project Canada Rare Earth is also pleased to announce it has entered into an Memorandum of Understanding which gives the Company the right to enter into a 70/30 Joint Venture with a private Laos-based company to co-develop an advanced-exploration stage, ion adsorption clay rare earth (IAC-RE) mining project in Laos (the "Mine JV"). Trading Halt and Change of Business The TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSX.V") has reviewed both proposed transactions referred to in this news release (the Acquisition and the Mine JV) and has determined that they constitute a Change of Business under TSX.V policy 5.2, "Changes of Business and Reverse Takeovers" (the "Policy"). Until the TSX.V has approved the Change of Business and the associated transactions, the Company's shares are subject to a trading halt. The process to comply with the Change of Business is expected to take 12 to 16 weeks and is subject to various conditions including execution of a definitive agreement for the Acquisition and the approval by the TSX.V of a comprehensive disclosure document as required by the Policy. Information detailing the terms of the acquisition of both the Refinery and the mining project will be released in due course. Don Anderson, Chief Investment Officer of Canada Rare Earth, said, "With this acquisition, the Company will join a small group of companies that produce separated rare earths and an even smaller group that produce the full suite of separated rare earth oxides. These are crucial ingredients for high-performance rare earth permanent magnets used in electric motors for applications such as electric vehicles, advanced air mobility, and robotics. As indicated by various industry analysts, demand for rare earth NdFeB permanent magnets is expected to have a compound annual growth rate exceeding 8% from 2024 to 2040." Peter Shearing added "The Company's acquisition of the Laos Refinery has been a strategic objective since its construction. When these transactions are complete, Canada Rare Earth will have an integrated supply chain from mining through to rare earth oxide production and Company will have successfully executed its vertical integration strategy which we have been pursuing over ten years. I want to thank our shareholders and all stakeholders for their patience. This is indeed a transformational transaction for Canada Rare Earth." Reappointment of CFO Canada Rare Earth is also pleased to announce the reappointment of Michael Lee as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and to welcome Mr. Lee back to the management team. Mr. Lee was previously the Company's CFO from September 2020 to August 2021. "We are thrilled to welcome Michael Lee back to the Company," remarked Peter Shearing, CEO of Canada Rare Earth. "Michael is highly experienced in financial management, has a very good understanding of our business and is known to our Board and management team. He is precisely the CFO that the Company needs to be successful." Mr. Lee has over twenty-five years of experience working with publicly listed companies, from multi-mine operating companies to grassroots mineral exploration. Mr. Lee has more than ten years of working experience with the highly-regarded Hunter Dickinson Group and has held Chief Financial Officer positions for a number of their publicly-listed portfolio companies. His career foundation was built as a consultant and auditor at Ernst & Young and Deloitte. Mr. Lee replaces Janet Meiklejohn, who resigned from her position as CFO in 2024. About Rare Earths Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are a group of chemically similar metals essential to modern technology and green energy. In their various forms (metals, alloys, oxides, etc.), rare earths are critical for devices like smartphones, electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, and military equipment due to their unique magnetic, optical, and conductive properties. REEs are also used in medical technologies such as MRIs and laser scalpels. Among these, Neodymium (Nd), Dysprosium (Dy), Praseodymium (Pr), and Terbium (Tb) are particularly indispensable for high-performance magnets, such as NdFeB (Neodymium Iron Boron) magnets, which power motors in EVs, wind turbines, drones, and robotics. (http://www.canadarareearth.com/rare-earth-overview) Although REEs are not rare in the Earth's crust, finding deposits concentrated enough for economical mining is uncommon. The real challenge lies in separating and refining REEs into their most common usable forms, known as rare earth oxides (REOs) or rare earth metals (REMs). A small number of countries currently dominate the rare earth market, with one nation controlling a majority of global production and refining capacity. This concentration of supply creates a pressing need for alternative production and refining facilities to ensure the stability of global supply chains. Establishing an independent full-capability rare earth production stream is immensely valuable for diversifying supply chains, stabilizing global markets, and reducing reliance on concentrated production hubs. With demand for NdFeB magnets expected to grow at 8.7% annually from 2024 to 2040 (Adamas Intelligence), rare earths will play an increasingly vital role in green energy and high-tech industries (https://www.adamasintel.com/rare-earths/). About Canada Rare Earth Corp. Canada Rare Earth Corp. operates a rapidly growing global essential minerals business built from over a decade of success in rare earth minerals and products. Our strategy leverages near-term positive cash flow opportunities supporting our business growth, including acquiring and developing proprietary projects, resources and processing capabilities and facilities. 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 and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Company's continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators, available on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236318 SOURCE: Canada Rare Earth Corp. Genomics England select QIAGEN's Clinical Knowledge Base to power first-of-its-kind whole-genome sequencing study for newborns National study will screen newborns for more than 200 treatable conditions to help identify appropriate treatments that are accessible for all in England Clinically relevant variant content from QIAGEN will be used to support evidence-based variant interpretation and reporting results QIAGEN (NYSE: QGEN; Frankfurt Prime Standard: QIA) today announced that it has partnered with Genomics England to support the delivery of the Generation Study. This first-of-its-kind initiative aims to sequence the genomes of 100,000 newborns in England to screen for over 200 selected conditions, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment of rare conditions. Through its Clinical Knowledge Base, QIAGEN will be the only company to provide clinically relevant variant content for genes included in the point-of-care sequencing test. Now that testing has begun, this content will be used to support rapid variant interpretation and reporting of sequencing results. The Generation Study will sequence and analyze the genomes of 100,000 newborns for a set of actionable genetic conditions that may affect their health in early years. Officially launched in October 2024, the national study will screen newborns for more than 200 treatable conditions that affect approximately 3,000 babies born each year in the UK.1 "When it comes to screening newborns to identify babies at risk for developing a rare disease, there is no room for error," said Dominic John, Head of QIAGEN Digital Insights. "We are pleased to be the only company to partner with Genomics England in this landmark program to provide nationwide access to the power of whole-genome sequencing for newborns in the United Kingdom, potentially improving the health of thousands of families." The study will identify conditions such as Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) in babies sooner and could enable hundreds to benefit from earlier diagnosis and treatment that could help slow the progression of rare conditions and even extend their lives. "Variant interpretation is really important for the Generation Study, which aims to identify more than 200 conditions in otherwise asymptomatic babies, where symptoms might not present until later in childhood," said Dr Ellen Thomas, Chief Medical Officer, Genomics England. "By providing expert-curated content for every gene being tested in the study, QIAGEN are supporting our ability to safely return results to participants." The QIAGEN Clinical Knowledge Base offers comprehensive genomic content built on expert manual curation. Rather than examining and interpreting each variant in real-time against the evidence found in the medical literature, newborn sequencing benefits greatly from pre-curated knowledge which is readily comparable to each newborn's DNA. For over two decades, QIAGEN has brought together the power of hundreds of physicians and bioinformatics expert curators with manual and computational methods to efficiently curate, annotate and analyze complex clinical evidence that are essential for accurate and high-quality reporting. For the Generation Study, QIAGEN curators provided comprehensive evidence for every variant seen across the 200 conditions included in the study. This focus on human effort, review and certification is critical. The QIAGEN Clinical Knowledge Base contains biological content from more than 40 databases that has been curated for clinical relevance. It has been used by researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies for more than 25 years, and has been cited in more than 35,000 scientific publications. A key differentiator of the QIAGEN Clinical Knowledge Base is how it combines the unmatched accuracy and consistency of QIAGEN's proprietary expert (MD/PhD) curation with the superior efficiency of machine extraction to efficiently identify, extract and align evidence. The approach ensures scalable, high-quality molecular intelligence that users can trust to augment their own decisions. To date, the QIAGEN Clinical Knowledge Base has been used to analyze and interpret more than 4 million NGS patient test cases globally, making it one of the most trusted genomic content sources worldwide. For more information about QIAGEN Clinical Knowledgebase, please visit: https://digitalinsights.qiagen.com/clinical-kb/ About QIAGEN QIAGEN N.V., a Netherlands-based holding company, is the leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions that enable customers to gain valuable molecular insights from samples containing the building blocks of life. Our sample technologies isolate and process DNA, RNA and proteins from blood, tissue and other materials. Assay technologies make these biomolecules visible and ready for analysis. Bioinformatics software and knowledge bases interpret data to report relevant, actionable insights. Automation solutions tie these together in seamless and cost-effective workflows. QIAGEN provides solutions to more than 500,000 customers around the world in Molecular Diagnostics (human healthcare) and Life Sciences (academia, pharma R&D and industrial applications, primarily forensics). As of September 30, 2024, QIAGEN employed more than 5,800 people in over 35 locations worldwide. Further information can be found at https://www.qiagen.com. Forward-Looking Statement Certain statements contained in this press release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. To the extent that any of the statements contained herein relating to QIAGEN's products, timing for launch and development, marketing and/or regulatory approvals, financial and operational outlook, growth and expansion, collaborations, markets, strategy or operating results, including without limitation its expected adjusted net sales and adjusted diluted earnings results, are forward-looking, such statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that involve a number of uncertainties and risks. Such uncertainties and risks include, but are not limited to, risks associated with management of growth and international operations (including the effects of currency fluctuations, regulatory processes and dependence on logistics), variability of operating results and allocations between customer classes, the commercial development of markets for our products to customers in academia, pharma, applied testing and molecular diagnostics; changing relationships with customers, suppliers and strategic partners; competition; rapid or unexpected changes in technologies; fluctuations in demand for QIAGEN's products (including fluctuations due to general economic conditions, the level and timing of customers' funding, budgets and other factors); our ability to obtain regulatory approval of our products; difficulties in successfully adapting QIAGEN's products to integrated solutions and producing such products; the ability of QIAGEN to identify and develop new products and to differentiate and protect our products from competitors' products; market acceptance of QIAGEN's new products and the integration of acquired technologies and businesses; actions of governments, global or regional economic developments, weather or transportation delays, natural disasters, political or public health crises, and its impact on the demand for our products and other aspects of our business, or other force majeure events; as well as the possibility that expected benefits related to recent or pending acquisitions may not materialize as expected; and the other factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors in our most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F. For further information, please refer to the discussions in reports that QIAGEN has filed with, or furnished to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Source: QIAGEN N.V. Category: Corporate 1 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/dec/13/genome-sequencing-trial-to-test-benefits-of-identifying-genetic-diseases-at-birth, as of August 28, 2024 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107278948/en/ Contacts: Investor Relations John Gilardi +49 2103 29 11711 Domenica Martorana +49 2103 29 11244 e-mail: ir@QIAGEN.com Public Relations Thomas Theuringer +49 2103 29 11826 Lisa Specht +49 2103 29 14181 e-mail: pr@QIAGEN.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Destiny Media Technologies Inc. (TSXV: DSY) (OTCQB: DSNY), a pioneer in music promotional delivery services, announced today that it will hold a live webinar on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) to discuss financial results for its first quarter ended November 30, 2024. The Company plans to release the financial results before the market open on the same day, Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Time: 2:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) Attendees are encouraged to register prior to the scheduled time at the following: https://investors.dsny.com/investors/financials/ or by clicking on the Webinar Registration Form. Attendees of the webinar can submit questions voluntarily during the live presentation. Cameras will remain off for all attendees throughout the session. Microphones will also remain muted unless an attendee chooses to engage in verbal questions, similar to the format used in traditional conference calls. The webinar format will provide the Company an opportunity to present visual information. For those without internet access, the webinar can be accessed via the following dial in details: Direct dial in US: +1 346 248 7799 or +1 360 209 5623 or More International numbers Webinar ID: 817 1581 2583 Attendees participating via dial-in will not have access to the webinar video stream or the question and answer functions. A recording of the webinar will be available after the event at https://investors.dsny.com/investors/financials/ About Destiny Media Technologies Inc. Destiny Media Technologies Inc. ("Destiny") provides software as service (SaaS) solutions to businesses in the music industry solving critical problems in distribution and promotion. The core service, Play MPE (www.plaympe.com), is the world's leading provider of music promotional delivery services, dedicated to empowering artists and industry professionals with innovative solutions for success in the digital age. More information can be found at www.dsny.com. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236334 SOURCE: Destiny Media Technologies, Inc. Being involved in an accident or personal injury incident can be exceedingly stressful and anxiety-inducing. No one ever wakes up in the morning and thinks to themselves, "Today is the day that I'm going to have my leg broken in a car accident." Sadly, life often does not bend to your will or operate according to schedule. Accidents happen, and when they do, they can be extremely inconvenient and ill-timed. To this end, you deserve compensation for your time, effort, and pain in such a scenario. The best way to maximize your compensation is to be properly educated on how Texas law functions and to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer in Austin . By understanding the breakdown of settlement amounts-including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering-and how each category has its own unique tax implications under state and federal laws, you stand a much better chance of getting the most out of your legal compensation. If You Don't Act Quickly, You Won't Act At All Immediately following an accident or injury, you need to act fast to ensure you are properly covered and compensated. There is a limited time under the law to pursue a lawsuit or insurance settlement. The statute of limitations, listed under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code 16.003, says that you have two years from the date of an injury to demand compensation from a negligent party. That may sound like an abundance of time, but it's important to remember that the deadline doesn't give you two full years to initiate the process but rather two full years to wrap up the process. Experienced lawyers know the best way to work around and incorporate such deadlines into their scheduling and planning, but the sooner you contact them, the better. To waste your time is to waste your opportunity to get the proper compensation you deserve. Non-Taxable Components Settlements for physical injuries and necessary medical expenses are generally tax-free, as they should be. Again, these compensations are not some extraneous earning amount you are inheriting by the luck of the draw but are, in fact, to compensate you for your losses. To tax them would be to further punish you for being injured in the first place, which would be ludicrous. Additionally, pain and suffering awards are generally also tax-exempt. Pain and suffering awards are further compensation amounts intended to compensate for excessive pain tied to the injury. To return to the earlier example, if you broke your leg in a car accident after being t-boned by a reckless driver, there is no way for that driver to undo what they have done. Regardless of how apologetic or guilty they feel about the damage done, they cannot take back their actions. But, if deemed appropriate, the court can grant you pain and suffering awards, in which the reckless driver pays you additional sums of money to reimburse you for the pain they have put you through. Taxable Components Some components involved in personal injury cases, including lost income, are taxable. The IRS considers lost income taxable, as it replaces wages subject to income tax. Similarly, punitive damages and settlement interest fall under taxable income. General Tax Exemptions While in Texas, compensation for physical injuries or sickness is generally non-taxable under federal law, but settlements for emotional distress can fall into a nebulous, ill-defined legal area. Compensation for physical distress is tax-exempt, but for emotional distress, it can still be taxed. Navigating Complex Cases Of course, this can lead to complex and messy litigation surrounding your personal injury in court. What constitutes the difference between emotional distress and physical distress? Often, the line between the two is far blurrier than legislation might have you believe. For example, long-term emotional distress brought on by an accident often leads to physical distress of some kind, as your emotional state inevitably affects your physical body. Because of this, emotional distress or mental anguish settlements often require careful categorization to determine taxability. By collaborating with tax and legal professionals, you can reduce liabilities. Strategies to Maximize Compensation Employing structured settlements is a common technique used to maximize compensation in a personal injury case. As opposed to receiving the entirety of the settlement upfront, a structured settlement spreads out the wealth over a series of years. With the aid of a keen financial advisor, structured settlements can be used to navigate tax exemption legislation, investing non-taxable portions strategically and skillfully. Find a Trusted Partner In short, navigating personal injury law in Austin, Texas, can be a bit tricky, but an Austin car accident lawyer can help you along the way. That's why you need a trusted, experienced, and reliable legal team like DJC Law/Team Justice, a firm with years of expertise in negotiating settlements with tax efficiency in mind. They also have access to resources ensuring their clients retain the maximum compensation. The team proactively supports its clients, helping them holistically address financial recovery. Company Name: DJC Law Contact Name: Dan Christensen Contact Email: info@teamjustice.com City / State: Austin, Texas SOURCE: DJC Law View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Spark Energy Minerals Inc. (CSE: SPRK) (OTC Pink: SPARF) (FSE: 8PC) ("Spark" or the "Company") an exploration Company focused on the discovery of battery metals in Brazil's prestigious Lithium Valley, is pleased to announce its exploration team has commenced its 2025 program to continue field exploration at the Company's 64,359-hectare Arapaima Lithium project located in Lithium Valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Arapaima Lithium Project Exploration Highlights: In Q4 2024, Spark's geological teams successfully initiated a " boots on the ground" exploration work program across its Arapaima Project. Initial work identified 3 priority targets within 8 pegmatite trends comprising a combined 27.2km of prospective strike. (see press release dated December 24, 2024, here) In 2025, the Q1 exploration program aims to continue with a focused follow-up of these priority targets, armedwith analytical results (expected in late January) from the first 144 samples submitted to the laboratory in late December. In parallel the teams willcontinue with first-pass exploration across the remainder of Spark's extensive tenement package, of which 80% remains to be explored. Spark has retained Sahara Mining Services to complete an independent NI 43-101 Exploration Report over the company's Arapaima Lithium Project during January 2025. In addition, Spark also reports that experienced consultant geologist, Richard Dan Hamer has been retained to support the exploration effort at Arapaima. Dan Hamer's rich global exploration experience across multiple geological jurisdictions and commodities will greatly benefit Sparks' exploration programme both technically and to provide training and mentorship to the geological team. An added benefit is to leverage Dan's wide experience with rock climbing and mountaineering, necessary for the Spark teams to safely access and sample several old excavations within the priority target areas identified by the team on drone footage and encountered on the ground. Figure 1: Figure showing location of Priority Target Areas 1, 5 and New Target 6 with sampling points, Arapaima Lithium project tenements To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10093/236335_aa1fb9f6e47ccbd1_002full.jpg Figure 2: Map showing the relative position of Target Area 1 (13.3km trend) with New Target Area 6 (8.3 km trend), some 1.8km to the south. Please note the location of old artisanal excavations within the target areas which will be accessed for sampling in the coming weeks. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10093/236335_aa1fb9f6e47ccbd1_003full.jpg Figure 3: Photos of pegmatites recently identified and mapped within the New Target 6 pegmatite corridors with a combined strike extent of 8.3km to date. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10093/236335_aa1fb9f6e47ccbd1_004full.jpg Jon Hill, Director of Spark Energy Minerals commented: "The team is very upbeat about the potential for discovery in 2025 and keen to continue with our systematic exploration focus on the priority targets already identified while completing first past exploration across the remaining 80% of the extensive tenement package. Having Dan Hamer join the team at Arapaima at this early stage of the exploration cycle is extremely valuable, especially to leverage his global exploration experience, in regolith covered terrains as well as to assist with safely accessing important old excavations encountered within our priority target areas." Target Generation Program: Planning January - March 2025 Receive and interpret the analytical results from samples submitted to the SGS laboratory to date (144). Review and refine the exploration strategy based on initial analytical results, whilst continuing the first pass mapping and stream sediment sampling program across the entire tenement package by the end of March 2025. Support an independent field geological assessment commencing 7th January for preparation of a NI 43-101 Exploration Report. Eugene Hodgson, CEO of Spark Energy Minerals, stated: "As we kick off our 2025 field program at the Arapaima Lithium Project, we're building on the tremendous momentum generated by our successful 2024 campaign. The identification of 8 pegmatite trends with a combined strike of 27.2km has set a solid foundation for our exploration efforts this year. With 80% of our extensive 64,359-hectare tenement package still to be explored, we're excited about the potential for further significant discoveries. The addition of Richard Dan Hamer to our team brings invaluable expertise that will enhance our exploration capabilities, particularly in accessing challenging terrain. As we await the analytical results from our initial sampling and prepare for the NI 43-101 Exploration Report, we're confident that 2025 will be a transformative year for Spark Energy in our quest to unlock the full potential of our assets in Brazil's Lithium Valley." Qualified Person: The scientific and technical information disclosed in this document has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill BSc Hons, FAUSIMM, a Qualified Person consistent with NI 43-101. About Spark Energy Minerals Inc. Spark Energy Minerals, Inc. is a Canadian company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of battery metals and mineral assets, with a particular emphasis on its substantial interests in Brazil. The Company's flagship project is the Arapaima Lithium project spanning 64,359 hectares in Brazil's renowned Lithium Valley, one of the most prolific mining regions in the world. This region is rapidly gaining global recognition for its vast deposits of lithium and rare earth minerals, positioning Brazil as a critical player in the global energy transition. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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 release. Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking information") as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could," "intend," "expect," "believe," "will," "projected," "estimated", "anticipates" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236335 SOURCE: Spark Energy Minerals Inc. Collaboration initiates development of dual-payload bispecific antibody-drug conjugates (BsAD2Cs) Biocytogen's RenLite meets Acepodia's AD2C for precision oncology solutions Biocytogen (HKEX: 02315) and Acepodia (6976:TT), today announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership to jointly assess a dual-payload bispecific antibody-drug conjugate (BsAD2C) program. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107874851/en/ Biocytogen and Acepodia Join Forces to Advance Bispecific Antibody and Dual-Payload ADCs for Treating Complex Tumors. (Graphic: Business Wire) This collaboration combines Biocytogen's RenLite platform with Acepodia's Antibody-Dual-Drugs Conjugation (AD2C) technology to tackle some of the toughest challenges in oncology-tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance. This novel approach aims to address these complexities by utilizing dual-payloads that target multiple therapeutic or disease pathways. These payloads are delivered with bispecific antibodies that enable enhanced precision and functionality. As part of the strategic partnership, Biocytogen will provide a bispecific antibody derived from its proprietary RenLite platform, which is designed to produce fully human bispecific antibodies with unique binding properties. To this antibody, Acepodia will integrate two different payloads using its Antibody-Dual-Drugs Conjugation (AD2C) platform. This platform enables site-selective conjugation of multiple payloads to an antibody using bio-orthogonal click chemistry with no required antibody engineering, maintaining antibody integrity and binding capacity, and allowing strategic and precise control over the Drug-to-Antibody Ratio (DAR) for optimal potency and safety. "We are thrilled to partner with the Acepodia team who brings deep expertise in bio-orthogonal click chemistry and the unique opportunity to combine our RenLite bispecific antibodies with site-selective dual-payload conjugates," said Dr. Yuelei Shen, President and CEO of Biocytogen. "We look forward to bridging our platforms to explore the therapeutic potential of highly potent BsADCs." "Biocytogen's superior bispecific antibodies and highly collaborative team make them an ideal partner for advancing our AD2C payload platform," said Sonny Hsiao, Ph.D., Co-Founder and CEO of Acepodia. "This partnership redefines the possibilities of ADC design, with the potential to deliver breakthrough therapies to patients in desperate need of new options." This strategic partnership underscores the commitment of both companies to addressing the critical unmet needs in ADC drug development for solid tumors, paving the way for innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes About Biocytogen Biocytogen (HKEX: 02315) is a global biotechnology company that drives the research and development of novel antibody-based drugs with innovative technologies. Founded on gene editing technology, Biocytogen leverages genetically engineered proprietary RenMice (RenMab/ RenLite/ RenNano/ RenTCR-mimic platforms for fully human monoclonal/bispecific/multispecific antibody discovery, bispecific antibody-drug conjugate discovery, nanobody discovery and TCR-mimic antibody discovery, and has established a sub-brand, RenBiologics, to explore global partnerships for an off-the-shelf library of >400,000 fully human antibody sequences against approximately 1000 targets for worldwide collaboration. As of June 30, 2024, approximately 150 therapeutic antibody and multiple clinical asset co-development/out-licensing/transfer agreements and nearly 50 target-nominated RenMice licensing projects have been established around the globe, including several partnerships with multinational pharmaceutical companies (MNCs). Biocytogen pioneered the generation of drug target knock-in humanized models for preclinical research, and currently provides a few thousand off-the-shelf animal and cell models under the company's sub-brand, BioMice, along with preclinical pharmacology and gene-editing services for clients worldwide. Headquartered in Beijing, Biocytogen has branches in China (Haimen Jiangsu, Shanghai), USA (Boston, San Francisco), and Germany (Heidelberg). For more information, please visit http://en.biocytogen.com.cn. About Acepodia Acepodia is transforming cancer and autoimmune disease treatment with first-in-class immune cell engagers that deliver enhanced and targeted potency through multiple conjugation platforms. Leveraging a family of bio-orthogonal click chemistry approaches originating from Nobel Prize laureate Carolyn Bertozzi's lab, Acepodia's platforms are designed to improve safety and offer broad applicability across hematologic and solid tumor cancers, as well as autoimmune diseases. By combining innovative science with a patient-centric vision, Acepodia aims to bring powerful, next-generation therapies to patients underserved by today's treatments. For more information, please visit https://www.acepodia.com/. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding the potential therapeutic benefits, evaluation outcomes, and future development strategies for the dual-payload BsAD2C program. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. Neither Biocytogen nor Acepodia undertakes any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107874851/en/ Contacts: Media: pr@bbctg.com.cn William Blair, the premier global boutique with expertise in investment banking, investment management, and private wealth management, has named Stewart Licudi as the firm's head of European investment banking. Based in London, Licudi will lead William Blair's investment banking advisory activity in Europe. "Stewart draws on decades of delivering world-class outcomes for clients and has played a pivotal role in expanding our capabilities across the continent. He has been living into and epitomizing our culture of collaboration and team development since the day he joined William Blair 19 years ago," said Matt Zimmer, William Blair's global head of investment banking. "We have seen incredible momentum in Europe, with notable growth in all of our key regions, including the U.K., DACH, Benelux, the Nordics, and Iberia, and look forward to continued strength under Stewart's leadership." Licudi brings nearly 30 years of experience working with growth companies, and since joining the firm in 2006, has been involved in more than 75 transactions, unlocking more than $25 billion in capital. Most recently, he served as a managing director and head of William Blair's London office. Before that, Licudi served as a managing director in William Blair's Financial Sponsors Group. His experience includes a decade in private equity with roles at 3i plc and LDC. He earned his B.A. (Hons) from the University of Stirling in Scotland. "William Blair's European investment banking team provides clients with a global, holistic offering matched with a high caliber of client service excellence, with a focus on the delivery of strong client outcomes," Licudi said. "I look forward to serving as a resource for our clients and colleagues as we continue to expand our scale across Europe." William Blair's European investment banking team consists of over 120 bankers in five offices. About William Blair Investment Banking William Blair's investment banking group enables corporations, financial sponsors, and owner/entrepreneurs around the world to achieve their growth, liquidity, and financing objectives. Drawing on the collective intellectual capital and deep sector expertise of a global team that reaches over 20 cities on four continents, the investment banking group brings a rigorous and innovative approach to corporate board advisory projects, mergers and acquisitions, and equity and debt financing. From January 2020 to December 2024, the team advised on more than $810 billion in completed transaction volume. About William Blair William Blair is the premier global boutique with expertise in investment banking, investment management, and private wealth management. We provide advisory services, strategies, and solutions to meet our clients' evolving needs. As an independent and employee-owned firm, together with our strategic partners, we operate in more than 20 offices worldwide.* *Includes strategic partnerships with Allier Capital, BDA Partners, and Poalim Capital Markets. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250107042640/en/ Contacts: PR@williamblair.com Future Fuels Inc. (the "Company" or "Future Fuels") (TSXV:FTUR)(FWB:S0J) is pleased to announce the appointment Bernd Christmas and Mark Riccio to its board of directors. Mr. Christmas is a highly esteemed legal professional and advocate for First Nations across Canada, recognized for his extensive experience and unwavering dedication to his field. As of February 1, 2024, he has taken on the role of Senior Counsel at JFK Law. He is situated at JFK Law's Six Nations office in Ohsweken, Ontario. Mr. Riccio has over 20 years' experience in financial markets, with the majority of time spent in the mining industry. He most recently co-founded Vikara Capital that manages a liquid, digital assets fund. He was previously a Director at Macquarie Group in the Commodities and Global Markets Division in Sydney. Prior to Macquarie, he was a Director at commodities private equity firm Denham Capital in Perth and Houston and Vice President in the investment banking group at Merrill Lynch in Sydney and Los Angeles. He has co-founded a number of businesses including copper and nickel royalty company Nova Royalty. He holds a BS in Finance from University of Colorado Boulder, an MBA from University of Texas Austin and is a CFA Charterholder. The Company also announces the resignation of Mr. Kevin Bottomley from his role of Director of the Company, effective immediately. The Company would like to thank Mr. Bottomley for his contributions during his tenure that helped guide the company through various strategic decisions. President, CEO and director Rob Leckie comments "It is a pleasure to welcome Mr. Christmas and Mr. Riccio to our board of directors. Their experience and expertise will undoubtedly serve the interests of our shareholders in advancing our Nunavut project. I would also like to express my gratitude to Mr. Bottomley. His professionalism and insights were of great value to the board. We wish him continued success in his endeavours. On behalf of the company, I would like to thank all three individuals for their commitment to Future Fuels". Grant of Stock Options The Company also wishes to announce that it has granted (the "Grant") an aggregate of 4,380,000 incentive stock options (each, an "Option") to purchase up to 4,380,000 common shares of the Company (each, a "Share") to certain directors, officers and consultants under its Equity Incentive Plan. The Options are exercisable for a period of two years from the date of Grant, expiring on January 7, 2027, at a price of $0.44 per Share. The Options will vest immediately. All Options and the Shares underlying such Options are subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance. About Future Fuels Inc. Future Fuels' principal asset is the Hornby Uranium Project, covering the entire 3,407 km Hornby Basin in north-western Nunavut, a geologically promising area with over 40 underexplored uranium showings. Additionally, Future Fuels holds the Covette Property in Quebec's James Bay region, comprising 65 mineral claims over 3,370 hectares. Future Fuels Inc. is publicly listed in Canada on the TSX Venture Exchange, under the symbol "FTUR," and in Germany on the Borse Frankfurt under the symbol "S0J" or WKN: A40TUW. You are invited to find out more at www.futurefuelsinc.com where you can subscribe for News Alerts, or follow us on Facebook, X.com or LinkedIn. On behalf of the Board of Directors FUTURE FUELS INC. "Rob Leckie" Rob Leckie, CEO Tel: 604.681.1568 Email: info@futurefuelsinc.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release may contain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the future vesting dates respecting the Options. Forward-looking statements are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements, including risks related to factors beyond the control of the Company. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE: Future Fuels Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Fermata, a Tel Aviv, Israel-based data science company specializing in computer vision agriculture solutions, raised $10M in Series A funding. The round was led by Raw Ventures. The company intends to use the funds to support its strategic vision of developing a centralized digital brain for the horticulture industry, allowing autonomous management of crops through data analysis. Led by CEO and Founder Valeria Kogan, Fermata is focused on the application of data science and computer vision solutions to challenges faced by commercial agriculture. It has now developed an adaptive computer vision platform designed to automatically detect pests and diseases at their earliest stages. This early-detection platform, known as Croptimus, enables growers to reliably mitigate these issues in advance of the point crop loss becomes inevitable and further reduces the amount of time and money spent on traditional scouting. The company has already forged strategic collaborations with Microsoft, NVIDIA, Wageningen University, Bayer Crop Sciences, yieldsApp, and agRE.tech, and plans to continue partnering with industry leaders to expand its impact throughout the agritech sector. FinSMEs 07/01/2025 Pison, a Boston, MA-based developer of AI-powered neural sensors for cognitive health, wellness, and gesture control, received an investment from Samsung Ventures. The amount of the deal was not disclosed. The company intends to use the funds to improve its neurocognitive assessment and tracking capabilities. Led by CEO John Croteau, Pison has developed innovative sensor technology that detects brain activity from three nerve bundles in the wrist. Using both active and passive AI algorithms, it extracts neurocognitive data, providing insights into mental acuity and impairment from poor sleep, chronic fatigue, anxiety, neurodegenerative conditions, drugs, alcohol, and subconcussive brain injuries. With it, users gain access to better health and higher achievement in every domain while reaching peak mental and physical performance on the playing field, at work, and in everyday life. The company was founded in 2016 with funding from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, National Science Foundation, and the ALS Association. It has also received funding from several Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards from the U.S. Department of Defense, and various research institutions. In addition, the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) highlights the value of neural biosensors for advancing warfighter health and readiness, namely detecting traumatic brain injuries and tracking chronic fatigue. FinSMEs 07/01/2024 History is about to repeat itself as the highly awaited period political drama Emergency is just two weeks away from theaters. With the release of the second trailer, anticipation is sky-high as Kangana Ranaut not only stars in but also directs this bold cinematic retelling of one of the most controversial periods in Indian politics. 2025 marks 50 years since the 1975 Emergency, and Kanganas portrayal of Indira Gandhi has left audiences in awe. From her uncanny resemblance to Gandhi to her flawless embodiment of the late Prime Ministers body language, mannerisms, and voice, Kangana is not merely playing a charactershe is channeling history itself. Advertisement The new trailer delivers even more intensity and political firepower than the first, capturing the tumultuous days of 1975 and Gandhis infamous declaration, Indira is India. The film brings to life the political chessboard of the time, from Jayaprakash Narayans fiery protests (Anupam Kher) to young Atal Bihari Vajpayees oratorical brilliance (Shreyas Talpade). Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw (Milind Soman), Pupul Jayakar (Mahima Choudhary), and Jagjivan Ram (the late Satish Kaushik) also play pivotal roles in this gripping drama. Kangana Ranaut says, After a long journey filled with challenges, Im glad that our film Emergency will finally hit the big screen on 17th January. This story isnt just about a controversial leader; it delves into themes that remain profoundly relevant today, making the journey both difficult and significant. Releasing just a week before Republic Day, its 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 isnt just a historical retellingits 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. 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 17th January 2025. Advertisement Link: https://youtu.be/ZWu2jk7IYv0?si=bLi2jSrTNFSUTSyI Delhi will vote on February 5, with the counting of votes three days later on February 8. The AAP is hoping to return to power for a third term, while its rivals the BJP and the Congress are trying to dislodge Arvind Kejriwals party in the National Capital read more The stage is set for Delhi Assembly elections. The Union Territory will go to polls on February 5, with the results on February 8. Delhi will witness a three-cornered fight that is likely to impact national politics. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is vying to return to power again, while its rivals the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress are hoping to unseat it. It is a high-stakes battle for all three parties. Advertisement Lets decode. AAP strives for third term Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP is leaving no stone unturned to retain power in the National Capital. Delhi is where AAP was born from the India Against Corruption (IAC) movement in 2012. A year later, the AAP ousted Congress from power in the UT, winning 28 of the 70 Assembly seats, with a vote share of 29.49 per cent. Kejriwal formed the government with outside backing from the Congress. However, his minority government lasted only 49 days. Kejriwal then went on to lead his party to spectacular victories in the Delhi Assembly elections in 2015 and 2020, winning 67 and 62 seats, respectively. In the 2015 Assembly elections, the BJP managed to clinch only three seats and a 32.19 per cent vote share and the Congress drew a blank, with a vote share under 10 per cent. The Kejriwal-led party bagged an overwhelming vote share of 54.34 per cent. The AAPs seat tally declined in 2020 but the party maintained a vote share of 53.57 per cent. It benefited at the cost of Congress, which lost its voter base of poor and lower middle-class electors. Kejriwal is banking on his governance record, welfare schemes and subsidies to win the February 2025 elections. The AAP, which is facing its toughest battle yet, kickstarted its election campaign months back. It has already declared all candidates for the 70 Assembly seats in Delhi. Many sitting MLAs have been dropped, while the seats of some such as former deputy Manish Sisodia have been changed. Advertisement The ruling party is contesting the polls on the face of its national convenor Kejriwal, giving the election slogan of Phir laayenge Kejriwal. Until a few months ago, the AAPs senior leadership, including Kejriwal and Sisodia, was in jail on charges of corruption. While AAPs Kalkaji MLA Atishi is the Delhi chief minister, Kejriwal has iterated he is the partys candidate for the top job in the upcoming elections. To woo voters, the AAP has promised to pay women Rs 2,100 monthly if elected back to power. It has also vowed to provide free treatment for senior citizens aged 60 and above at all government and private hospitals in Delhi under the Sanjeevani Yojana. Advertisement The AAP is also expecting to reap political dividends on subsidies on water and power, and reforms in healthcare. However, the tough fight from the BJP and the Congress aggressive campaign could hurt its chances. If the Congress revives its scattered voter base, it could play a spoilsport for the AAP and benefit the saffron party. For AAP, a victory for a third consecutive term would add wings to its national ambitions, giving it an edge over the Congress in the INDIA bloc. Whats at stake for BJP, Congress? The BJP is the AAPs main opponent in the Delhi Assembly polls. It has not declared a CM face yet and is fighting the elections on Prime Minister Narendra Modis face. The saffron party has remained out of power in Delhi for more than two decades. While the BJP has won all seven seats in Delhi in the last three Lok Sabha elections, it has failed to win the Assembly elections in the UT since 1998. Advertisement PM Modi has set the campaign tone for the BJP in his speeches while inaugurating major infrastructure projects for Delhi. Hitting out at AAP, he raised the partys poll slogan: AAP-da nahi sahenge, badal ke rahenge (We will not tolerate this disaster, we will bring a change). Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Union Minister Manohar Lal, BJP National General Secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva and BJP candidate for Delhi Assembly elections Ramesh Bidhuri during a public meeting, at Rohini, in New Delhi, January 5, 2025. PTI For the BJP, Delhi elections are a battle of prestige. After a reduced mandate in last years Lok Sabha elections, the saffron party bounced back in the Haryana and Maharashtra Assembly elections, winning both. However, Delhi has remained elusive for the BJP. The AAP is trying to corner the saffron party over the lack of a CM face in the city. As per Indian Express, the BJP is relying on its voter base upper middle class, the trading and Punjabi communities and support from a section of Purvanchali voters to defeat the AAP in Delhi. It is now making efforts to also lure the lower middle class, Dalits and the poor to deliver the final blow. Advertisement A triumph in Delhi would further boost the morale of the BJPs cadre and take the winds out of the sails of the opposition INDIA bloc. The Congress, which was the dominant force in Delhi under Sheila Dikshit from 1998 and 2013, is now fighting for relevance in the National Capital, as per ThePrint. The Delhi Congress unit is beset by organisational weakness and leadership challenges. The Grand Old Party, which is an ally of the AAP in the INDIA bloc, is contesting against Kejriwals party in Delhi. To counter Kejriwals financial aid for women, the Congress has announced Pyari Didi Yojana under which it will provide a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 to women if voted to power. #WATCH | #DelhiElections2025 | Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, "Today, I am here to launch the 'Pyari Didi' scheme. I am confident that Congress will form the govt in Delhi and we will provide Rs 2,500 to women, and it will be decided in the very first meeting of cabinet pic.twitter.com/ZrfchVB2g3 ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025 The Congress has so far announced 48 candidates for the upcoming elections. As per Indian Express sources, the national leadership is still hoping to forge an alliance with the AAP in the Assembly polls but its Delhi unit is reluctant. The Congress does not have a credible face in Delhi. While senior leaders of other parties have hit the campaign trail, Congress Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are yet to address public gatherings in the National Capital. For the Congress, a humiliating defeat in Delhi would further rub salt into its wound of losing Haryana and Maharashtra, the states it had expected to win. Delhi loss will also damage its standing in the INDIA grouping. With inputs from agencies Tensions over Greenland are escalating as Denmark redesigns its royal coat of arms to showcase ties with the Arctic territory, while US President-elect Donald Trump revives his push to acquire the island. Meanwhile, Greenlands leaders are accelerating their calls for independence read more A polar bear family group, consisting of an adult female and two cubs, crosses glacier ice in Southeast Greenland in this handout photograph taken in September 2016. File Image/NASA via Reuters Recent developments around Greenland include the Denmarks symbolic redesign of its royal coat of arms and US President-elect Donald Trumps renewed interest in acquiring the Arctic island These events come at a time when Greenland itself is pushing for greater autonomy and independence. Danish royal coat of arms Denmarks King Frederik has made a historic change to the royal coat of arms, replacing the centuries-old symbol of the Kalmar Union with prominent representations of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The updated design features a polar bear and a ram, reflecting Denmarks commitment to retaining these territories within the kingdom. 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, the king stated during his first New Years address. Advertisement The updated design (right) features a polar bear and a ram, representing Greenland and the Faroe Islands respectively. Composite by Firstpost via kongehuset.dk Historians and experts see the move as a response to geopolitical pressures, including Greenlands growing calls for independence and renewed US interest in the island. Lars Hovbakke Srensen, a royal expert, told Danish state channel TV2, 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. Sebastian Olden-Jrgensen, a historian, told Danish daily Berlingske, 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. The royal household explained that the changes were made based on a recommendation from a committee convened after King Frederiks accession in January 2024. The three crowns, symbolising the historical Kalmar Union, were deemed no longer relevant, replaced by elements that underscore the modern unity of the Danish commonwealth. Donald Trump Jr in Greenland US President-elect Donald Trump has revived his controversial interest in purchasing Greenland, a proposal first floated during his initial term. Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr, is set to visit the island on Tuesday (January 7, 2025), though the trip has been described as private. According to Mininnguaq Kleist, Greenlands permanent secretary for foreign affairs, We have not been briefed on the nature of his programme, and therefore this is a private visit. Donald Trump Jr speaks during a rally in Scottsdale, Arizona, US, November 2, 2024. File Image/Reuters Trump Jr plans to shoot video content for his podcast during his one-day visit, with no scheduled meetings with Greenlandic officials, reported Reuters. Meanwhile, Trump Sr continues to champion the potential benefits of US ownership, declaring on his platform Truth Social: Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation, the US president-elect wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Advertisement This isnt the first time Trump has expressed interest in Greenland. During his first term, he publicly floated the idea of purchasing the island, citing its strategic location and natural resources. The suggestion was from both Greenlandic and Danish leaders. In December 2024, Trump reiterated his stance, stating, 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. Greenland does allow the US a large military base on its territory. Greenland wants independence Amid these developments, Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has intensified calls for independence from Denmark. In his New Years speech, Egede spoke of breaking free from shackles of colonialism and shaping Greenlands own future. It is about time that we ourselves take a step and shape our future The history and current conditions have shown that our cooperation with the Kingdom of Denmark has not succeeded in creating full equality, Egede remarked. Advertisement Despite Greenlands significant natural resources, its economy remains reliant on fishing and subsidies from Denmark. The islands leadership continues to reject Trumps proposals, with Egede asserting, Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Bourup Egede speaks at a press conference during the opening of the European Commissions new office in Nuuk, Greenland, March 15, 2024. File Image/Reuters The drive for independence has been fuelled by historical grievances, including revelations of misconduct by Danish authorities during the 20th century. Greenlands government has already presented its first draft constitution, a significant step toward full autonomy. However, the timeline for a potential referendum remains uncertain. Greenlands political landscape reflects a mix of aspirations for independence and concerns over the timing and consequences of such a move. Aaja Chemnitz, a member of Greenlands parliament, voiced strong opposition to Trumps ambitions: I dont want to be a pawn in Trumps hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country. Advertisement Chemnitz also warned against external interference in Greenlands political processes, urging the population to focus on domestic priorities rather than becoming entangled in global power plays. Dont let Trump control the Greenland election campaign and leave the population as losers in that game, she wrote in a post on Facebook. On the Danish front, the royal coat of arms redesign highlights the kingdoms stance on unity. Parliamentary elections in Greenland are due to be held no later than April 6 this year. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies Madhya Pradesh police on Tuesday arrested a 25-year-old doctor for allegedly raping his colleague at an abandoned boys hostel run by a government-run medical college in Gwalior. The incident comes months after a 31-year-old postgraduate doctor was brutally raped and murdered by a civic volunteer in Kolkata read more A doctor holds a banner during a protest demanding justice following the rape and murder of a trainee medic at a hospital in Kolkata. Representational Image/Reuters Madhya Pradesh police on Tuesday arrested a 25-year-old doctor for allegedly raping his colleague at an abandoned boys hostel run by a government-run medical college in Gwalior. The incident comes months after a 31-year-old postgraduate doctor was brutally raped and murdered by a civic volunteer in Kolkata. Heres all we know about the incident. Gwalior case The assault took place on Sunday when the survivor, also aged 25, was supposed to retake her final year MBBS exams, as per The Times of India. She was staying in the girls hostel of the Gajra Raja Medical College. The accused, also a junior doctor who studied with the survivor, had called the woman to meet him at an abandoned old boys hostel, according to city superintendent of police Ashok Jadon. Advertisement When the woman reached the building, the accused threatened her with violence and raped her. The assault came to light when the survivor registered a complaint at the Kampu police station. Police said the accused was arrested and has been booked under relevant legal provisions, the police said. Further investigation is underway. Also read: Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu gets bail in rape case, top court says cant meet followers RG Kar case The shocking incident in Madhya Pradesh comes just months after a 31-year-old trainee doctor was brutally raped and murdered by a civic volunteer inside government-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The Kolkata police discovered the semi-naked body of the woman doctor inside the lecture hall of the hospital on August 9. The on-duty doctors was covered with various marks from injuries. Doctors shout slogans during a protest over the RG Kar Medical College incident, at Nirman Bhawan in New Delhi. PTI Civic volunteer Sanjay Roy, the main accused in the case, was arrested. The Calcutta High Court then transferred the investigation to the CBI. The CBI has filed a chargesheet against Roy for the rape and murder of the on-duty doctor. The central agency also arrested former college principal Sandeep Ghosh and Tala police station officer Abhijeet Mondal for alleged attempts to destroy evidence in the case. Ghosh is also under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (RD) over financial irregularities during his tenure, based on a case registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation. Advertisement Ghosh and Mondal both were released by a Kolkata court after the agency failed to register a chargesheet against them before 90 days. CBI has slapped rape and murder charges on Dr Sandip Ghosh. PTI The pace of the investigation has been criticised by the Joint Platform of Doctors (JPD), an umbrella body of several doctors associations, who had also planned a series of agitations from December last year. Also read: Kolkata rape-murder case: Why doctors in India are in urgent need for a central protection law The sad truth about India Little has changed since the brutal gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old in 2012, as per Reuters. Around that time, police were recording up to 25,000 rape cases a year across India, according to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Today, almost four rape cases are recorded every hour in the country. In three of these cases, the accused is a known person to the woman. According to the official data analysed by News18, India reported 86 cases of rapes daily on average between 2017 and 2022. Advertisement The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report shows a total of 1.89 lakh rape cases were reported in India between 2017 and 2022. These cases involved 1.91 lakh women. The average age of the survivors is between 19 and 30, analysis showed. The numbers have stayed high, even as the authorities ramped up the penalties, widened the definition of rape and reducing the age threshold. Conviction rates for rape ranged between 27 per cent to 28 per cent from 2018-2022, according to NCRB data. Over much of that time, that was second lowest rate recorded for five serious crimes, also including murder, kidnapping, rioting and causing grievous hurt. Advertisement Senior criminal lawyer Rebecca M John, who has represented many rape victims, says some rapists still believe they can get away with their crime. One of the factors would be the absence of fear of the law, she told Reuters. There is no consistent application of the law, thats one aspect. There is very poor policing, thats another aspect. With inputs from agencies On January 7, 2015, France was stunned when two armed men stormed the offices of magazine, Charlie Hebdo, and killed numerous people. The attack is one of Frances deadliest and most unfortunate. Heres what else occurred on that day in history read more A man holds a pen with a sign during a vigil, for the victims of a shooting by gunmen at the offices of weekly satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris, at the French consulate in Quebec City. Hooded gunmen stormed the Paris offices of the weekly satirical magazine, shooting dead at least 12 people, including two police officers, in the worst militant attack on French soil in decades. The sign reads, "I am Charlie". File image/Reuters January 7 has been a day of significance in world history. Its the day on which the first transatlantic phone call was made. Its also the day when the Charlie Hebdo terrorist attack occurred in Paris, France. Not just that, its also the beginning of Bill Clintons impeachment trial. The day also marks the birth and death of some famous people, including the birth of F1 driver Lewis Hamilton and the death of inventor Nikola Tesla, the man after whom Elon Musks car is named. Advertisement As part of Firstposts series History Today we deep dive into what happened on this day in the years gone by. Hello The worlds first transatlantic phone call Way, way before smartphones, on January 7, 1927, the first transatlantic phone call was made. It was held between the president of America AT&T company, Walter S Gifford, and the head of the British General Post Office, Sir Evelyn P Murray. The call was not transmitted by wire, but by radio waves. The call between New York and London cost an estimated $45 at the time which in todays terms would be approximately $815.93. And what was said in this phone call? According to records, the weather was spoken of with Gifford asking Murray, Hows the weather over in London? Cambodias Khmer Rouge government is overthrown Back in 1979, on this fateful day, Vietnamese troops seized the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, toppling the brutal regime of Pol Pot and his Khmer Rouge. The Khmer Rouge was purportedly set up in 1967 as the armed wing of the Communist Party of Kampuchea. The Khmer Rouge government under Pol Pot was responsible for the Cambodian genocide (1976-78), during which up to three million people were murdered. A tourist stands before a map of Cambodia made from the skulls and bones of victims of the Khmer Rouges brutal 1975-79 killing fields regime. File image/Reuters However, Pol Pots regime of murder and chaos ended when Vietnamese troops overthrew him, installing a puppet government propped up by Vietnamese aid and expertise. The Khmer Rouge retreated to remote areas and resumed guerrilla warfare. In 1997, Pol Pot was put on trial after an internal power struggle ousted him from his leadership position. Sentenced to life imprisonment by a peoples tribunal, Pol Pot later declared in an interview, My conscience is clear. Shooting at Charlie Hebdo office On January 7, 2015, France saw one of the most deadliest attacks on its soil the shooting at the Charlie Hebdo office. For those who are unaware, Charlie Hebdo is a French magazine, which has courted controversy for its satirical attacks on political and religious leaders. At 11.30 am local time, on that day, a black Citroen C3 drove up to the Charlie Hebdo building in Rue Nicolas-Appert with two masked gunmen now identified as brothers Cherif and Said Kouachi , dressed in black and armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles, entered the office and fired at the editors police bodyguard, Franck Brinsolaro, before asking for editor Stephane Charbonnier, known as Charb, and other four cartoonists by name and killing them, along with three other editorial staff and a guest attending the meeting. Advertisement Witnesses said they had heard the gunmen shouting, We have avenged the Prophet Muhammad and God is Great in Arabic while calling out the names of the journalists. The attack was in response to the magazines criticism of Islam and depiction of the Prophet. A youth holds a mobile phone bearing a sign that reads, I am Charlie during a vigil to pay tribute to the victims of a shooting by gunmen at the offices of weekly satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris. File image/Reuters At roughly the same time, another individual Amedy Coulibaly who had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, took hostages in a kosher supermarket in Paris. He killed four people, all of them Jewish, before he was killed by police. Following the attacks, tributes poured in from all over the world, many using the phrase Je suis Charlie. The killings were considered not only as acts of terrorism but also as an attack on free speech and the freedom of the press. Advertisement This Day, That Year On January 1610, Galileo, the Italian astronomer, spotted the four largest moons of Jupiter that day: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. In 1999, the impeachment trial of US President Bill Clinton, formally charged with lying under oath and obstructing justice, begins in the Senate. In 2021, American business tycoon Elon Musk overtook Amazon founder Jeff Bezos as the worlds richest man with a net worth of $186 billion. Canadas government under Justin Trudeau has been in a prolonged spat with India since 2018. However, ties reached a nadir with the PM accusing the Indian government of having a hand in the killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. Some experts say Trudeaus exit could be a chance to reset relations between the two countries and to bring down the temperature and political rhetoric between New Delhi and Ottawa read more Justin Trudeau has resigned as Canadas prime minister. Trudeau, who has been at the helm in Canada for over a decade, blamed internal battles for his decision. 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, Trudeau said. But is his resignation good news for India? Advertisement Lets take a closer look: Prolonged spat with India First, lets take a brief look at the Trudeaus governments prolonged spat with India. Ties between the two countries actually first dipped in 2018 after Trudeau made a trip to India. The trip, made at the invite of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was widely seen as a catastrophe. The visit was overshadowed from the outset by the story that a convicted former member of a Sikh separatist group was invited to a formal event hosted by the Canadian High Commissioner. The invitation was only rescinded after CBC News got in touch with the Prime Ministers Office. Trudeau and his family wearing traditional Indian garb also did not go down well. Many people saw it as pandering, while others mocked Trudeau for appropriating Indian culture. Then, in 2022, Trudeau added salt to the wounds when he became the first leader to comment on the farmers protests in India. Trudeau, making the remarks during an online event to mark the 551st birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, said he would be remiss if he didnt recognise the news coming out of India about the protest by farmers. The situation is concerning and we are all very worried about family and friends and I know that is a reality for many of you, Trudeau said in the video posted on his Twitter account. Advertisement Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protest. We believe in importance of dialogue and that is why we have reached out through multiple means directly to Indian authorities to highlight our concerns, he said. Then, in June 2023, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, whom the Indian government had designated as a terrorist, was shot dead outside a gurudwara in Vancouver. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, was shot and killed on June 18, 2023. File image/X Canada halts talks on a proposed trade treaty with India. Canada in September 2023 then halted a trade mission to India planned for October. A Canadian official said this occurred over concerns surrounding Nijjars killing. Trudeau in Canadian Parliament then alleged there were credible allegations of a potential link of Indias hand in Nijjars killing. Advertisement Over the past number of weeks, Canadian security agencies have been actively pursuing credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of a Canadian citizen, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Trudeau said. New Delhi called the allegations absurd and demanded Ottawa to do something about anti-India groups operating from its turf. The MEA termed the accusations absurd and motivated. It added that the unsubstantiated allegations sought to change attention from Khalistani and extremists who have been provided shelter in Canada. But Trudeau refused to back down. In fact, the next day he repeated the allegations, saying if they were true they had far-reaching consequences in international law and otherwise. Advertisement Canada then expelled Indias top diplomat Pavan Kumar Varma. New Delhi responded by expelling Canadian diplomat Olivier Sylvestre. India also upped the ante by restricting visas for Canadians and urging its citizens in Canada to exercise caution. In view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence in Canada, all Indian nationals there and those contemplating travel are urged to exercise utmost caution, the statement read. Canada in April 2024 then accused India of meddling in its elections. New Delhi denied the charge. Canadian police in May then claimed to have arrested members of a hit squad allegedly charged by the Government of India with killing Nijjar. Advertisement India in June 2024 slammed Canadas Parliament observing one minute silence in the memory of Khalistan extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. We naturally oppose any moves giving political space to extremism and advocacy of violence, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said. Canada in October accused the Indian High Commissioner and other diplomats of being persons of interest in an investigation into the killing of Nijjar. India withdrew its High Commissioner to Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma India dismissed the allegations as preposterous and accused Trudeau of trying to play to a local vote bank. India then withdrew its diplomats including the high commissioner from Canada. We have no faith in the current Canadian Governments commitment to ensure their security. Therefore, the Government of India has decided to withdraw the High Commissioner and other targeted diplomats and officials, Indias foreign ministry said. New Delhi also downgraded its diplomatic ties with Ottawa. What do experts say? Some say Trudeaus exit could be a chance to reset relations between the two countries. A piece in Indian Express noted that from New Delhis perspective Trudeau was living on borrowed time given the opinion polls. The Centre viewed Trudeau as having adopted a scorched earth policy when it comes to India over Nijjar which has led to a nadir in ties. With Trudeaus departure, some view it as a time and opportunity to repair the damage done in the last year-and-half, the piece argued. With Trudeau gone, the temperature might be a bit lower in India-Canada ties the acrimony and the sharp anti-India public statements and political rhetoric is expected to tone down a bit. However, the piece pointed out that Trudeaus rhetoric makes it harder for the next person who takes power in Canada to manoeuvre. But a change in the leadership is expected to give a chance to stabilise ties, the piece concluded. A piece in The Times of India noted that Trudeaus exit comes amid heightened tension between Canada and India over the killing of Nijjar. With no substantial evidence presented by Trudeaus team, the accusation left a cloud of distrust hanging over bilateral ties. Now, as Trudeau steps down, the future of Canada-India relations hangs in the balance, the piece argued. The piece contended that Trudeau stepping down could result in a sea-change on Canadas approach towards India. The question on many minds is whether the Liberal Party will elect a new leader who continues Trudeaus critical stance or whether a new government will seek a fresh diplomatic approach, the piece stated. The piece argued that with the Conservative Party now favoured to come to power under Pierre Poilievre, it is possible that tensions could be reduced. Canadas Leader of Opposition Pierre Poilievre. ANI However, it also noted Poilievres approach towards Canadas Indian diaspora most notably his choice to withdraw from a Diwali event in 2022. The coming months will be crucial in determining how the leadership transition plays out and what it means for Canadas position on the global stage, particularly in its dealings with India, the piece concluded. A piece in Economic Times argued that Trudeaus resignation spurs critical questions about the future of Canada-India relations. While Trudeaus government had a confrontational stance toward India, the next leader of the Liberal Party could either continue this approach or adopt a more conciliatory tone. If the new leader aligns with Trudeaus policies, tensions may persist, possibly escalating the diplomatic dispute further, the piece contended. The article, however, noted the opportunity of the two countries making inroads in areas of trade and diplomatic engagement. If the new leader seeks to repair relations with India, it could mark the beginning of a new phase in Canada-India ties, where the focus may shift towards cooperation rather than conflict, the piece argued. It also noted that Poilievre has vowed to take a different approach on India. Poilievre has called for a professional relationship with New Delhi, singling India out as the largest democracy on Earth. We need a professional relationship with the Indian government. India is the largest democracy on Earth. And its fine to have our disagreements and to hold each other accountable, but we have to have a professional relationship, and that is what I will restore when Im Prime Minister of this country, he was quoted as saying. The article argued that the next federal election in Canada, slated for October 2025, will be key to the relationship. The coming months will be critical for the future of Canadas position on the global stage and its relationships with key international partners, particularly India. Whether Trudeaus successor continues his approach or pivots to a new direction, the impact of these decisions will be felt for years to come, the piece concluded. A piece in Times Now noted that Poilievre could be good for India when it comes to immigration and studies. Were going to return to the system we had before Justin Trudeau. A modest number of highly promising young people who excelled could come here, study, and if they followed the rules, they could stay, Poilievre said. It remains to be seen whom succeeds Trudeau as Canadas prime minister and where the relationship with India goes. With inputs from agencies Two elderly men died after choking on mochi on the first three days of the New Year in Japan. This sticky, sweet traditional delicacy turns fatal almost every year. But why? read more Mochi-related deaths have come to haunt Japan again. The delicious rice cake, which is an integral part of the countrys New Year celebrations, turned fatal as two people choked to death. Despite warnings from authorities, mochi remains a favourite treat for many during the New Year. Almost every year, people are hospitalised in Japan after eating the rice cake. Lets take a closer look. Mochi kills 2 in Japan At least two elderly people died in Tokyo after choking on mochi on the first three days of the New Year, as per a Japan Today report. They were among the nine people, aged between 73 and 84, who choked on the rice cake and had to be hospitalised in Japans capital. According to TV Asahi, a man in his 70s choked on mochi at his home in Itabashi Ward on New Years Day and was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Advertisement The other man who lost his life was in his 80s and lived in the Tokyo suburb of Nerima. What is mochi? Mochi, a staple of the Japanese New Year, is a sticky, sweet traditional delicacy made of soft and chewy rice. After steaming the rice, it is pounded and mashed. The rice becomes a sticky mass, which is then given a round shape and baked or boiled, as per BBC. Families usually eat mochi in a savoury soup called ozoni. Women form cooked and pounded rice into small cakes as they participate in making Japanese rice cakes called mochi, 14 December, 2003, at the Buddhist Temple in San Diego, US. File Photo/AFP Emily Anderson, a curator at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, told CBS Sunday Morning last month that New Years Day is the most important holiday in Japan, with mochi being a traditional delicacy to celebrate. Eating mochi is a really important part of the most important family-oriented day, she said. However, mochi can turn deadly. The glutinous cakes are chewy and sticky and have to be properly chewed before swallowing. They will be hard to eat for those who cannot chew properly like children and the elderly. According to BBC, if mochi is swallowed without chewing, it can get stuck in peoples throats, leading to suffocation. Mochi deaths in Japan Mochi has caused deaths nearly every year in Japan. A survey by the Tokyo Fire Department, cited by local media, found that 368 people were taken to hospitals due to choking on mochi or other items from 2019 to 2023. Of these, over 90 per cent were over the age of 65. Forty-three of these cases were reported in December and 142 in January, highlighting the significance of the sweet delicacy over the holidays. In 2023, as many as 64 people were hospitalised with mochi stuck in their throats across Japan, with 58 of them aged 65 or older, reported South China Morning Post (SCMP). Four women, all in their 80s, choked to death on mochi in 2022. That year, 73 cases of choking on the traditional rice cakes were reported. Advertisement Tokyo Fire Departments data shows that in the past five years, 9.5 per cent of the people taken to hospitals were pronounced dead on arrival, 38.6 per cent were in imminent danger to life and another 9.8 per cent were in grave danger, as per SCMP. Nine people were believed to have died on mochi in 2015. In 2001, a woman saved her fathers life by using a vacuum cleaner to pull mochi from the 70-year-old mans throat. How to eat mochi safely? Do not bite off more than you can chew. Literally. Mochi-related accidents are so common that authorities in Japan have laid out guidelines on how to eat the delicacy safely. Every year, the National Police Agency and the Fire and Disaster Management Agency advise people to cut the rice cakes into smaller pieces. They say not to eat them in a hurry but to chew slowly before swallowing. Advertisement Children swing their wooden hammers to pound steamed rice into cake during the annual mochi-tsuki event at Tokyos Roppongi Hills on Japanuary 7, 2012. File Photo/AFP A web page of the Tokyo Fire Department suggests people drink tea or soup to moisten their throats before consuming mochi. Authorities also recommend eating mochi in someones presence, as per Japan Today. They say people should be aware of first aid techniques that can be applied in case of an emergency. With inputs from agencies Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of the far-right National Front, has died at age 96. Le Pen, who was thrown out of his party in 2015 by his daughter Marine over his remarks about the Holocaust, has for decades been seen as among the most controversial figures in France read more Jean-Marie Le Pen applauds a speech during an Italian neo-fascist MSI party rally in a Rome cinema in 1988. Reuters Jean-Marie Le Pen has died at age 96. Jean-Marie, the founder of the far-right National Front, was for decades seen as among the most controversial figures in France. His family in a statement said he died surrounded by loved ones at a healthcare facility on Tuesday. But what do we know about Jean-Marie? And why was he such a divisive figure in France? Lets take a closer look: Early years, army life Jean-Marie was born in the port of La Trinite-sur-Mer on June 20, 1928. His father was fisherman, while his mother was a seamstress. Advertisement Tragedy struck early in Jean-Maries life. As per BBC, Jean-Marie was only 14 when his father died. Out sailing, his fathers boat hit a mine. Jean-Marie, as a result of his fathers death, was entitled to support from the state. At 16, he attempted to join the French Resistance. However, the resistance turned him down. Jean-Marie wrote in his autobiography that he earned a magisterial slap from his mother was his first war decoration. This after he admitted to her that he had attempted to enlist. But that didnt dissuade him from enlisting. Jean-Marie served in two wars the First Indochina War (1946-1954) in Vietnam and in Algeria (1954-1962). By 1954, hed joined the French foreign legion. According to BBC, he worked as an intelligence officer in Algeria. In the middle of the stint, Jean-Marie returned to France and made his debut in politics. In 1956, he was voted into Frances Parliament. At 27, he was the countrys youngest MP. But that didnt end his military ambitions. Jean-Marie was part of the French-British military expedition to seize the Suez Canal. He also continued to fight in the Algerian war. It was this conflict that left the greatest impact on Jean-Marie. Advertisement As in Vietnam, he was infuriated to see France losing its colonial possessions, accusing World War II hero Charles de Gaulle of helping make France small by granting Algeria its independence. As per BBC, Jean-Marie was alleged to have participated in the torture of Algerian prisoners during the conflict. Jean-Marie Le Pen was the leader of Frances extreme-right National Front. Reuters The Guardian quoted Jean Marie telling the newspaper Combat in 1962, Ive nothing to hide. We tortured because it had to be done. When youve caught someone whos just planted 20 bombs that could explode from one minute to the next and he doesnt want to talk, you have to use exceptional methods to make him do so. Advertisement Jean-Marie would later deny the charge. He would even sue French newspapers Le Canard enchaine and Liberation over decades later albeit unsuccessfully. As per BBC, Jean-Marie by 1962 had lost his political seat in the National Assembly. He caused controversy in 1965 by defending the war-time government that collaborated with the Nazis. Was General de Gaulle more brave than Marshal Petain in the occupied zone? This isnt sure. It was much easier to resist in London than to resist in France, Jean-Marie said. Rise in politics In 1972, he co-founded the National Front (FN), billed as a national, social and popular party, and two years later made his first run for president. The early years were tumultuous, with his unabashed racism and anti-Semitism striking a raw nerve in a country still haunted by the collaborationist Vichy regime during World War II. Advertisement In 1976, a bomb ripped through the Paris apartment building where he lived with his wife Pierrette and three daughters, slightly injuring six people but sparing the Le Pens. Eight years later, Pierrette walked out of the marriage, resurfacing shortly afterwards to pose nearly nude for Playboy magazine in a French maids outfit her pointed answer to her husbands advice to get a job as a cleaner. As per BBC, Jean-Marie had little political success at first. In 1974, his bid for president garnered under 1 per cent of the vote. In 1981, he couldnt even manage to obtain enough signatures to be nominated. Advertisement However, the FNs first big electoral breakthrough came in the mid-1980s, when the party won 35 seats in parliament. His party gained ground in the south of France which had witnessed a large number of North African immigrants. By the 1984 European elections, the FN had cracked 10 per cent of the vote. But its fortunes fluctuated sharply over the next two decades, partly a result of changes in the election system that favoured big parties. As per The Guardian, Jean-Marie remained a National Front MP till 1988. By 1991, hed divorced his first wife Pierrette with whom he had Marine for his second wife Jany. Meanwhile, his message remained unchanged with immigration, the political elite and the European Union all taking a bashing even though he himself was a member of the European Parliament for over 30 years. He was a Member of the European Parliament till 2019 and served as regional councillor in the Provence-Alpes-Cote-dAzur between 2010 and 2015. Jean-Marie shocked many in France in 2002 when he made it to the second round of the presidential election, which was won by Jacques Chirac. Jean-Marie, who seemed more at ease in the role of provocateur than would-be president, appeared as surprised as everyone else by his spectacular breakthrough. However, Chirac completely dominated Jean-Marie in the second round taking home over 82 per cent of votes, as per The Guardian. Years later, he boasted that the rise of the far right around Europe showed his ideas had gone mainstream. A consummate orator and trained lawyer, he tapped into the anger of right-wingers nostalgic for the empire and French settlers forced to flee the North African country. The eye patch he wore for many years added to his pugilistic air. Jean-Marie revealed that he lost his eye driving a tent peg into a hole, and not, as was widely thought, in a brawl. While wielding the mallet a shock in my eye, I have to be hospitalised. Retinal detachment, Jean-Marie wrote as per BBC. In 2007, he insisted that Nicolas Sarkozy, the son of a Hungarian immigrant who went on to win the presidency, was not French enough to be president. He repeatedly warned that African immigration would submerge the country and claimed the Nazi occupation of the northern half of France in World War II was not particularly inhumane. But it was comments on the Holocaust which he repeatedly called a detail of history that caused the most shock. I do not say that the gas chambers did not exist. I never personally saw them, Jean-Marie said in 1987 as per BBC. I have never particularly studied the issue, but I believe they are a point of detail in the history of World War Two. The remark earned the politician nicknamed the Devil of the Republic and one in a string of convictions for anti-Semitism and racism. As per The Guardian, Jean-Marie in 2014 claimed that the Ebola virus could provide the answer to bringing the worlds population under control. In 2016, he was convicted of provoking hatred and ethnic discrimination for commenting at a public rally that Roma rash-inducing and smelly. Estrangement from family Ultimately it was the Holocaust remarks that drove a wedge between him and his daughter Marine. By 2011, Jean-Maries political career was at an end. His party had not won a single seat in the National Assembly. That was when his daughter Marine took over. Marine Le Pen took over the party from her father in 2011. Reuters Marine was desperate to clean up her partys image and distance it from its founder. She called the process de-diabolisation de-demonisation in an apparent nod to the legacy left by her father. Then, in 2015, things escalated dramatically and spectacularly. According to Le Monde, Jean-Marie repeated his views on the Holocaust during interviews with BFM-TV and in the anti-Semitic magazine Rivarol. Marine had had enough and removed him from the party. As per Le Monde, even his picture was taken off on the party website. Father and daughter no longer spoke. Marine was quoted as saying that Jean-Marie wants to harm the Front National. He, on the other hand, retorted that he was ashamed that she bore his name. But more was to come. Marine in 2018 completely abandoned the National Front brand renaming the party to the National Rally. She would have to commit suicide to cut her links with me, Jean-Marie told the Journal du Dimanche newspaper. Another blow was to fall. His favourite granddaughter, Marion Marechal-Le Pen, a telegenic former MP tipped as a future leader of the far right, also distanced herself from the family brand. She dropped Le Pen from her name on her social media accounts, becoming simply Marion Marechal. Marion perhaps thinks that it is too much of weight to carry, Jean-Marie groused. As per The Guardian, both Jean-Marie and Marine and other National Rally members have been accused of embezzling money from the European Parliament. Jean-Marie Le Pen had been excused from attending court on health grounds. Marine has since taken the National Rally to unimagined heights not only in national politics but in Europe as well. The National Rally performed well in both recent domestic and European elections. But Jean-Marie never apologised. It is life! Life is not a smooth tranquil stream, he told BBC in 2017. I am accustomed to adversity. For 60 years I have rowed against the current. Never once have we had the wind at our backs! No indeed, one thing we never got used to was the easy life! With inputs from agencies In the latest twist, the Yemen embassy in India announced that President Rashad al-Alimi had not approved the death sentence of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, convicted of murder in a 2018 case. Instead, they say, the entire case is handled by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Sanaa. Earlier, a high-level Iranian official declared that Tehran would take up Priyas case on humanitarian grounds read more The Yemeni Embassy in India has clarified that the death sentence handed to Priya by a Yemeni court has not been approved by President Rashad al-Alimi. Instead, she remains detained under the Iran-aligned Houthi militia. Image courtesy: News18 In the latest twist to the gripping case of Nimisha Priya, an Indian nurse on death row in Yemen, details have emerged about the handling of her sentence. The Yemeni Embassy in India has clarified that the death sentence handed to Priya by a Yemeni court has not been approved by President Rashad al-Alimi. Instead, she remains detained under the Iran-aligned Houthi militia in the capital Sanaa, reports PTI. This comes in contrast to a statement by a high-level Iranian official who had earlier declared that Tehran would take up Priyas case on humanitarian grounds. Advertisement Heres what we know of the unfolding situation. Yemen President did not ratify Priyas sentence On Monday, the Yemen Embassy in India in a statement announced that Yemen President Rashad al-Alimi has not ratified the death sentence of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, instead the entire case was controlled by the Houthi militia of the country. The Yemeni government emphasizes that the entire case has been handled by the Houthi militias and therefore, His Excellency Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Republic of Yemen has not ratified the judgement, a statement issued by the Embassy of Yemen declared. The announcement came days after it was widely reported that Yemeni President Alimi had approved capital punishment for the Indian nurse. The statement further said that Priya is currently detained in Sanaa under the authority of the Houthi militia. Earlier, a media outlet from Kerala suggested that the approval for the death sentence came from Mehdi Al-Mashat, the rebel president and leader of the Houthi Supreme Political Council. A media outlet from Kerala suggested that the approval for the death sentence for Nimisha Priya came from Mehdi Al-Mashat, the rebel president and leader of the Houthi Supreme Political Council. AFP The political situation in Yemen The confusion surrounding Nimisha Priyas case stems from Yemens deeply divided political landscape, where three distinct factions vie for control. The capital city of Sanaa is under the authority of the Iran-backed Houthi militia, while the internationally recognised, Saudi-backed government controls other parts of the country. Additionally, the UAE-supported Southern Transitional Council (STC) governs certain southern regions. The Yemeni Embassy in New Delhi represents the Saudi-backed government, as the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels maintain no official diplomatic ties with India. The Houthi militants, operating under the Ansar Allah group, currently control Sanaa and oversee approximately 50 per cent of Yemens population. According to reports from The Hindu, officials from Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have indicated that Iranian intervention in the case could be a decisive factor following which a senior Iranian official reportedly stated that Tehran would take up Priyas case on humanitarian grounds and will do whatever we can. Advertisement A senior Iranian official reportedly stated that Tehran would take up Priyas case and will do whatever we can. Image Courtesy: @ians_india/X.com Priya, a 37-year-old nurse from Kerala, was sentenced to death in Sanaa for the 2017 murder of her business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi. Priya claimed that Mahdi had confiscated her passport and subjected her to physical threats, leading her to attempt to sedate him to retrieve her documents, which inadvertently resulted in his death. The nurse was arrested and imprisoned in the Houthi-controlled capital. She was handed capital punishment by a trial court in 2020 while Yemens Supreme Judicial Council upheld the verdict in November 2023. Efforts ongoing to save Priya Last week, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government is extending all possible help and is closely monitoring the situation and remains actively involved. This follows an appeal by the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, a group of NRI social workers in Yemen, which urged Indias external ministry to intervene immediately and take the lead in securing Priyas release. Advertisement Priyas mother, Prema Kumari, along with others, had earlier made efforts to raise funds to pay blood money a provision under Islamic Sharia law where the victims family can pardon the perpetrator in exchange for financial compensation. Such a pardon would override the death sentence issued by the court. However, with insufficient funds, Prema Kumari released an emotional video plea asking the Indian government to step in to help her daughter. This is my final plea. She has only a few days left. Every member of the action council has worked tirelessly to raise funds. I beg the Centre and the council to do everything possible to save her life, she said. Advertisement In November 2023, the Indian government allocated $40,000 (approximately Rs 34 lakh) to initiate talks for Priyas release, as reported by Indian Express. Eventually, her family may need to pay between $300,000 and $400,000 (Rs 2.57-3.43 crore) to prevent the death sentence, which could be carried out within a month. The race against time continues as Priyas family and support groups work tirelessly to save her life. With input from agencies When Justin Trudeau rose to power in 2015, becoming Canadas prime minister, many called him a rockstar for his progressive agenda. However, 10 years later, his star has waned and he leaves office with a disgruntled public and a Liberal party in chaos right before an election read more Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces his resignation as Liberal leader and prime minister outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Monday on Jan. 6, 2025. AP 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 Canadas Justin Trudeau as he announced on Monday (January 6) his decision of stepping down as prime minister and as party leader once the Liberals choose his successor. The decision for the 53-year-old is a reversal of his previous stance; in the past, Trudeau had been adamant in public and private conversations that he would lead the Liberals into the next election against Pierre Poilievres front-running Conservatives. Advertisement However, its hard not to capitulate to the pressures hes been facing a plummeting approvals rating, spate of by-election losses and perhaps the final straw being his former deputy PM Chrystia Freelands rebuke of his policies and quitting his Cabinet last December. As he steps down after more than nine years in power, we chart his ups when Trudeaumania was at an all-time high and his downs that eventually led him to announce his departure as Canadian PM. Growing up as Justin Trudeau Born December 25, 1971, Justin is the son of the four-term prime minister of Canada Pierre Trudeau. After his parents divorced, Trudeau and his two younger brothers were raised by a single father who also led his country for 15 years (196879; 198084). At the age of 28, he commanded national attention when he delivered a moving and eloquent eulogy at his fathers funeral. Years later, in 2008, he stepped into politics after being courted by several Liberal leaders and won the seat representing Papineau, an ethnically diverse area. Three years later, even as the Liberals flopped, he was re-elected and became the party spokesman on youth and multiculturalism, citizenship and immigration, and amateur sports, among other areas. Handsome, youthful, and charismatic, Trudeau was seen by many as the Liberals best hope to lead them back to prominence. Justin Trudeau and other Trudeau family members watch the casket of Pierre Trudeau being placed in the hearse at the state funeral in Montreal, Canada, October 3, 2000. His moving eulogy for his father earned him eyeballs from all in the country. File image/Reuters In 2013, Trudeau won the leadership of the party when it was at an all-time low. The Liberals, out of power for more than seven years at that point, had been reduced to third place in the House of Commons in 2011 for the first time. At the time, he was written off by the Conservatives with the Globe and Mail reporting that many thought him to have more hair than intelligence. Advertisement Ascent of Trudeau and Trudeaumania ensues But, Trudeau wasnt phased. In 2015, he took the political world by storm when he ended nearly a decade of Conservative rule by promising voters positive and progressive politics. With his boyish charm, he wooed voters with his brand that embraced feminism and even welcomed refugees. He promised action on climate change and defence of Indigenous and refugee rights. 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. File image/Reuters In his first term as Canadas PM, he prioritised gender parity and when asked why, he responded, Because its 2015. He became a rockstar in many ways; in 2017, the popular magazine Rolling Stone put him on the cover, asking Why cant he be our PM a time when Donald Trump was in power in the US. In other parts of the world too, he captured the attention. During the 2016 G7 summit in Japan, he was nicknamed ikemen shusho, or hunky PM, by local media and swooning fans lined up for a glimpse of him. FILE PHOTO: Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his shirt soaked after members of the crowd squirted him with water guns, joins supporters of Torontos LGBTQ community as they march in one of North Americas largest Pride parades, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. File image/Reuters Controversies galore Amid Trudeaus years as PM, he has weathered many a political controversy. While he enjoyed support in 2017 Canadas ethics commissioner ruled that he had broken conflict-of-interest rules by accepting a vacation, gifts and flights from the Aga Khan in 2016. It was the first time a prime minister had been found to have committed such a transgression. At the time, he apologised, saying, he took full responsibility for this and calling the travel a mistake. Advertisement Later, in February 2019, Canadas former Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould accused government officials of inappropriately pressuring her to help construction company SNC-Lavalin avoid a corruption trial. The affair prompted the resignation of Wilson-Raybould, and of Treasury Board President Jane Philpott. Losing two women from the Cabinet was politically damaging for a prime minister who had described himself as a feminist. In the same year in September came the Blackface scandal. As he began campaigning, photos emerged of him wearing blackface when he was younger. A strong advocate for multiculturalism, he apologised and said his life of privilege had come with a blind spot. Advertisement Love affair with Trudeau ends But soon the honeymoon period ended and his sunny ways began to wear off. In internal politics, Trudeau began to be questioned on his core issues like climate change and reconciliation with Indigenous communities. As Maxwell Cameron, a political science professor at the University of British Columbia told AFP, Trudeau has not been the reformer that many had hoped for. A person holds a sign of Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Parliament Hill, as truckers and their supporters continue to protest coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine mandates, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Reuters His liberal reputation came under scrutiny when he used emergency powers to crush a strike by truckers in 2022, and his popularity worsened as the Canadian economy faltered. The housing crisis has been one of the biggest issues that Trudeau has faced criticism on. The average house price in Canada when Trudeau took over as prime minister in November 2015 was $446,000 Canadian. Nine years later, the average cost of a house has 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. Advertisement On an international stage too, Trudeau started fading. He failed in his bid to get on the UN Security Council. He was lambasted for his naive approach to China. Also, who can forget that state visit to India in 2018. It was deemed an embarrassment by both the Indian and international press. Since then, hes also had a strained relationship with India after his government alleged that India had a hand in the assassination of Sikh citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim that New Delhi has rejected time after time. He has also been slammed by many in India for being soft on supporters of the Khalistan movement. In recent times, Canadas Justin Trudeau has has strained ties with India after he alleged that New Delhi had a role in the assassination of Sikh citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar. File image/Reuters The tide worsened for Trudeau in September 2024 when the New Democrats, who had kept Trudeau in power in return for increased social spending, announced they would withdraw their automatic support. Since then, Trudeaus star has only been waning and he has lost all public support. According to a BBC report, a survey conducted over the holidays by the Angus Reid Institute suggested the lowest level of support for the party in their tracking, dating back to 2014. Polls suggest the Conservatives would win an election handily if it were held today. The final nail in the coffin came in December amid calls for him from within his own to step down. 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 Canadas 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. And as AFP reports, Freelands resignation seemed to break a dam of Liberal party dissent, which eventually led to Trudeaus resignation. Some believe history will remember Justin Trudeau kindly, but we will have to wait and see. With inputs from agencies After Justin Trudeau resigned, US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated that Canada would benefit from becoming the 51st American state. But if Trump has his wish, it will be bad news for Republicans, who may never win a general election. Heres why read more Since his re-election, Donald Trump has drawn plenty of attention for neo-annexationist propositions made on social media about the Panama Canal, Greenland and Canada including in the hours following Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation announcement. For a supposed anti-interventionist, its odd that Trump is enthusiastically embracing ideas from the era of intense American imperialism. Maybe thats what Trump is going for. Perhaps he is trying to revive the expansionist spirit of Theodore Roosevelt, William McKinley and James Polk. Advertisement Canadians who paid attention to their history lessons will sense some neo-Polkism in these designs a 54-40 or fight call for the 21st century. Mild responses Not surprisingly, Trumps annexation propositions have been rebuked by the leaders of Panama, Greenland and Canada, some more forcefully than others. Canadas response has been mild at best. Outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the man Trump now routinely mocks as the governor of Americas 51st state, counter-posted a video from 2010 in which an avuncular Tom Brokaw explains Canada to Americans. Trudeau and Canadas Cabinet ministers have also sought an audience with the president-elect at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida to find a way around Trumps ruinous tariff threats, a far greater threat to Canadas national interests than his annexation bluster. President-elect Donald Trump has called for a US-Canada merger hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tendered his resignation from the post. File image/AP Some Canadians may have favourable views of the United States but vanishingly few are interested in Canada becoming a 51st state. Still, lets play out Trumps hypothetical. Lets say that Canada became the 51st state in the American Union. What would be the electoral implications for the US? Democrats would benefit Trump and his Republican Party would certainly not like the answer: the GOP might never win a national election ever again. Indeed, the state of Canada would profoundly alter the electoral map of American national politics, almost entirely in the Democratic Partys favour. To see how, consider how the 51st state would be represented in the institutions of American government. Lets begin in the House of Representatives because thats where integrating Canada would be the trickiest. In the US, House seats are allocated on the basis of representation-by-population, which, based on the 2020 US census, means one House seat for every 761,169 people. Advertisement With its population of 41 million, Canada would be apportioned about 54 seats, becoming a bigger state than California. Combine those 54 House seats with the two senators allocated to every state, and you would have an electoral powerhouse north of the 49th parallel. None of this would be good news for Republicans. Of course, this assumes that annexation can overcome American political fights over reapportionment and redistricting and that Canada would accept the American for allocating seats that would whittle 338 House of Commons seats down to 54 and its 105 senators down to two. But it doesnt matter. Advertisement Most Canadians would vote Democrat Lets look now at how Canadians would alter American elections. Grafting Canadas political culture onto US party politics would be awkward, so lets make another assumption. Presume that Conservative Party of Canada voters would vote Republican and left-of-Conservative voters would vote for Democrats. Generally, this would include supporters of the Liberals, New Democrats, Greens and the Bloc Quebecois. Heres where the 51st state becomes a big problem for Trump. Since Canadas right-wing parties united in 2003, the Conservative Party of Canada has won an average of 35 per cent of the popular vote. Canadas left-of-conservative parties, on the other hand, have won an average of 63 per cent of the vote in that time period. In American terms, that means about two-thirds of voters in the state of Canada would vote Democrat and one-third would vote Republican, or 36-18 in the Democrats favour. Looking back over the past quarter century, that margin would have turned every Republican House majority into a Democratic majority (except for 2010). Indeed, left-of-conservative voters in the state of Canada would make it far more difficult for Republicans to win a House majority ever again. Advertisement In the Senate, two-thirds of Canadas left-of-Conservative voters would likely send a pair of Democrats to the Senate. Thats not enough to alter the balance of power, but in a world of single-digit margins of victory in the Senate, its not trivial. After all, every senator counts, especially for things like Supreme Court and cabinet confirmations. Canadianising the Electoral College Now comes the big question: how would the state of Canada alter the Electoral College? Each state has Electoral College votes that are the sum of their House representatives and senators. We also know ( with some exceptions) that the winner of the popular vote in each state takes all of that states Electoral College votes. Where would the state of Canadas 54 Electoral College votes go? Advertisement Given Canadas left-of-conservative leanings, the state of Canadas Electoral College votes would likely go to the Democrat presidential candidate every time. That would have swung two Republican presidential victories in the Democrats favour this century (2000 and 2004) and would have made Trumps victories in 2016 and 2024 even smaller so small, in fact, that American electoral math in the expanded US would be fundamentally changed. So perhaps its time for Trump to recognise that Canada is a different country with its own history and political culture. Better yet, Trump could recognise that his churlish taunts trivialize a needless trade war that risks hundreds of billions of dollars and thousands of jobs on both sides of the border. Trump could recognise that the countries he is antagonising are part of a strategic network of allies that sustains American power in the world. If thats not enough for Trump to act seriously, he could at least follow his electoral instincts. Aaron Ettinger, Associate Professor, International Relations, Carleton University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Russia is facing a demographic crisis with its birth rate hitting a 25-year low. To combat this, the government is offering financial incentives, including cash payments to young mothers and stricter abortion regulations read more Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with patients as he visits the new children's clinical centre named after Leonid Roshal outside Moscow, Russia, August 21, 2024. File Image/Sputnik via Reuters Russia has launched a series of measures to counteract its severe demographic crisis. These policies aim to incentivise childbirth among young women, particularly female college students, as the country struggles with a historic decline in population amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, emigration, and social challenges. Russia in demographic crisis Russias birth rate has plunged to a 25-year low, with only 599,600 children born in 2024, 16,000 fewer than the previous year. This marks the lowest figure since 1999. The situation worsened in June 2024, when the monthly birth rate fell below 100,000 for the first time in recorded history. These trends have prompted warnings from experts, including the United Nations, which predicts that Russias population currently at approximately 146 million could drop to as low as 74 million by 2100 if the decline is not reversed. Advertisement The problem is exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has resulted in over 600,000 casualties and has driven more than a million young, educated Russians to flee the country. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the situation as catastrophic for the future of the nation in July 2024. Financial incentives for young mothers To combat the crisis, Russia is offering financial rewards to young women who choose to have children. These incentives include both regional and federal programmes: Regional payments: Starting January 1, 2025, nearly a dozen regional governments will offer payments of 100,000 rubles (approximately $910) to female college students under 25 who give birth to healthy babies. For example, in Karelia and Tomsk, eligible women must be full-time students and local residents. However, payments are forfeited if the baby is stillborn. Federal maternity benefits: The national government has also increased its maternity payments. First-time mothers can now receive 677,000 rubles ($6,150) in 2025, up from 630,400 rubles the previous year. Mothers of a second child are eligible for 894,000 rubles ($8,130), an increase from 833,000 rubles in 2024. Governor Gleb Nikitin of the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast has further incentivised childbirth with a unique policy offering one million rubles (approximately $10,000) per child, starting in 2025. The programmes details remain unclear but represent one of the most significant efforts at the regional level. Support for families extended Beyond financial payments, Russia has implemented a wide range of policies aimed at fostering a pro-family culture: Restricting abortions: The government has introduced tighter regulations on abortion access to encourage women to carry pregnancies to term. Advertisement Promoting family-centric media: The portrayal of family life has shifted in Russian media. A reality show once titled 1__6 and Pregnant, which warned against teen pregnancies, has been rebranded as Mom at 16 to celebrate young motherhood. Banning child-free propaganda: In November 2024, the State Duma voted to prohibit content promoting child-free lifestyles or non-traditional family structures. This includes any material deemed to support same-sex relationships or challenge conventional gender roles. Violators face heavy fines. Encouraging procreation at work: Regional health ministers have suggested unconventional approaches, such as encouraging women to engage in procreation on breaks at work. Health Minister Yevgeny Shestopalov stated on Russian TV, Life flies by too quickly. Being busy at work is not a valid excuse. Advertisement Wedding night incentives: Some regions have proposed funding newlywed hotel stays to increase the likelihood of conception. The long-term plan & criticism The Russian governments Strategy of Action for Family and Demographic Policy outlines a two-phase approach aimed at reversing the demographic decline by 2036: Phase 1 (2025-2030): Increase the birth rate to 1.6 children per woman and reduce infant mortality rates. Phase 2 (2031-2036): Raise the birth rate further to 1.8 children per woman while extending life expectancy. Valentina Matvienko, chairwoman of the Federation Council, has been nominated to lead these efforts. The strategy is aimed at highlighting traditional family values and aims to strengthen the institution of marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Russias demographic policies come against a backdrop of global fertility declines. Many countries, including Japan, China, and Canada, face similar challenges. For example, Canadas fertility rate dropped to 1.26 children per woman in 2023, its lowest level ever. Advertisement However, Russias approach marked by financial incentives and restrictive social policies has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue that encouraging childbirth through cash payments ignores broader systemic issues, such as economic instability, lack of infrastructure, and societal pressures on women. Moreover, the ongoing war in Ukraine continues to strain Russias resources and population. Analysts suggest that reducing casualties and fostering a more stable environment may be more effective in addressing the countrys demographic challenges. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies Elon Musk, after successfully influencing the US election and getting his preferred candidate Donald Trump elected president, is now looking to spread his influence in other countries. Experts say European leaders think this could be a harbinger of things to come under Trump and point out that the development comes as Musks platform X is under investigation by the EU read more Elon Musk is looking to influence elections in Europe. File Photo/Reuters The battle between Elon Musk and world leaders just keeps going. Elon Musk, after successfully influencing the US election and getting his preferred candidate Donald Trump elected president, is now looking to spread his influence in other countries. From Keir Starmer in the UK to Emmanuel Macron in France, world leaders continue to go after Musk. The richest man in the world, meanwhile, is in no mood to back down. Musk, resharing a post highlighting the major events of the year, wrote on X: Advertisement 2025 is looking good https://t.co/qhVMzzy3yW Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 But whats going on? Lets take a closer look: Musk vs Starmer Musk on Monday yet again attacked UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Pakistani grooming gangs scandal. Prison for Starmer, Musk wrote on X. Musk also put up a poll on his social media website X asking whether America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. He also claimed Starmer and former prime minister Gordon Brown were among those complicit in the sex crimes, adding in one post that Brown sold those little girls for votes. The development comes days after Musk urged King Charles to dissolve the UKs Parliament. Musk on January 3 had claimed Starmer was complicit in the rape of Britain and demanded that he face charges for the worst mass crime in the history of Britain. Starmer was chief of public prosecutions (DPP) from 2008 to 2013. The grooming scandal involved the widespread abuse of girls in northern English towns such as Rochdale, Rotherham and Oldham. A series of court cases eventually led to the conviction of dozens of men, mostly of South Asian origin. The victims were vulnerable, mostly white, girls. Advertisement Subsequent official reports into how police and social workers failed to halt the abuse in some cases found that officials turned a blind eye to avoid appearing racist. None of the probes singled out Starmer for blame or found that he had tried to block prosecutions. But that hasnt stopped Musk from putting up dozens of posts on X attacking Starmer and the Labour Party. Starmer on Monday hit back, taking aim at those spreading lies and misinformation about the UK. Elon Musk is targetting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Reuters Those that are spreading lies and misinformation, as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves, Starmer was quoted as saying by CNN. Advertisement 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. Musk had targeted Jess Philips, the minister for safeguarding and violence against women and girls, saying she deserves to be in prison. This after Philips declined to order a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal. Musk has called Phillips, a former womens refuge worker, a rape genocide apologist. Starmer said he enjoys the cut-and-thrust of politics, but that debates must be based on facts and truth, not on lies. Advertisement Starmer said he had dealt with the problem head-on as a prosecutor and oversaw the highest number of child sexual abuse cases being prosecuted on record. British lawmaker Ed Davey also rallied to Starmers defence. 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 wrote on social media. The Liberal Democrats chief added that the US ambassador ought to convey to the government to very careful about how they comment on UK affairs, whether theyre the richest man in the world or anyone else. Advertisement Musk also surprised many people in Britain on Sunday when he appeared to U-turn on his support for Brexit cheerleader Nigel Farage, saying his anti-immigration Reform party needs a new leader. Musk vs Macron Macron, though he did not mention Musk by name, also took aim at the owner of X. The French leader said the SpaceX boss was directly intervening in elections, including in Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron has slammed Elon Musk. File image/ AP 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 was quoted as telling French ambassadors by CNN. Musk then took to X to hit back at Macron. The X CEO wrote, Oh like that time Starmer called @realDonaldTrump a racist and said the British government should do everything to stop him? Or when Starmer sent British Labour Party members to campaign in the US against President Trump this year? Musk vs Olaf Scholz Musk has sought to influence elections in Germany too. As per CNN, the worlds richest man endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the federal elections slated for February. Musk wrote a string of social media posts and an op-ed column in a major German newspaper in support of the AfD which has been accused of trying to resurrect Nazi ideology. Musk has said that only the AfD can save Germany. As per Vanity Fair, Musk has denigrated Scholz as an oaf who will lose. Scholz has said hes staying cool amid personal attacks from Musk but said he finds it much more worrying that Musk is supporting a party like the AfD, which is in parts right-wing extremist, which preaches rapprochement with Putins Russia and wants to weaken transatlantic relations. You have to stay cool, Scholz said as per The Guardian. 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. I dont believe in courting Mr Musks favour. Im happy to leave that to others, he said. The rule is: dont feed the troll. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Source: Reuters. Scholz on Saturday slammed Musk for erratic comments after the billionaire labelled the German leader an incompetent fool. Robert Habeck, the German Green Partys chancellor candidate, also slammed Musk. Habeck told Der Spiegel, Hands off our democracy, Mr Musk! Axios quoted Noways Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre as saying on Monday, This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies. 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, Stre told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. What do experts say? Experts are wondering if Musk is venturing out on his own or if hes acting at the behest of Trump. Will Musk be carrying out Trumps foreign policy agenda, acting as a personal ambassador of Trump to everywhere? Lindsay Gorman, managing director and senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund told CNN. Or will Musk be advancing his own vision for global affairs, which may align with Trump in some ways, but not in others. And then what will be the power dynamics between those two? They say Musks behaviour is bound to cause problems for US diplomats. I think its going to get very confusing very quickly. I dont envy the career diplomats at the State Department, who are certainly going to have their hands full trying to figure out whose agenda theyre carrying out, said Gorman. Anna Grzymaa-Busse, director of The Europe Center at Stanford University, told NBC European leaders are thinking that Musks behaviour could be a harbinger of things to come under Trump. This is one more step in transforming the US from a trusted ally to an unpredictable agent, Grzymaa-Busse wrote. Musk in Europe is widely seen as an ignorant but highly damaging force, and a proxy for Trump. Liana Fix, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, pointed out that these developments come as Musks platform X is under investigation by the EU. Elon Musks comments are perceived by the EU as an attempt to bully Europeans into a softer approach towards platform regulation, with the threat of domestic turmoil, Fix told the outlet. With inputs from agencies A doctor sheds light on Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV, its symptoms, prevention measures and potential risks as India reports its first cases and China faces a troubling surge in infections read more India reported its first confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a highly contagious respiratory virus, on Monday. Union Health Minister JP Nadda announced that five cases had been identified, with detections in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and one case each in Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata. Nadda clarified that the total number of cases in the country has now reached seven. Meanwhile, China is grappling with a spike in respiratory infections attributed to HMPV, causing overcrowded hospitals and sparking public anxiety over a potential outbreak. The northern provinces have reported the highest surge, particularly among children, leading health authorities to introduce stricter monitoring protocols. Advertisement The situation has drawn comparisons to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, which began in Wuhan five years ago and claimed over seven million lives globally. Images and videos of masked patients crowding Chinese hospitals have flooded social media, evoking memories of the initial chaos of the coronavirus outbreak. Despite these developments, Beijing has sought to downplay concerns, describing the surge as a routine seasonal trend. However, local reports suggest that authorities are closely monitoring cases of pneumonia with unidentified origins, hinting at a more cautious approach behind the scenes. Dr Prachee Sathe, Director of ICU and Critical Care at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, provides expert insights into HMPV: What is the HMPV virus? HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a respiratory virus that belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae, the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It primarily causes respiratory infections, particularly in the upper and lower respiratory tract, including the nose, throat and lungs. HMPV infections can affect people of all ages, but it is most common among children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Whats behind the surge? The recent surge in HMPV cases can be attributed to several factors, including seasonal variations in respiratory infections, changes in population immunity and the relaxation of COVID-19 prevention measures. The virus spreads via droplets from coughing or sneezing, similar to other respiratory viruses. As the immunity from previous infections or vaccinations decreases over time, there is a possibility of increased vulnerability and greater susceptibility to viral infections. Advertisement How to prevent it? To protect yourself and others from HMPV, follow these precautions: Frequent handwashing: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces. Wearing masks: Masks can help prevent the transmission of respiratory droplets, particularly in crowded or enclosed spaces. Avoid close contact: Stay away from people who are sick, especially if they have cold-like symptoms. Cover your mouth: Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Sanitise high-touch areas: Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces, particularly in shared or public spaces. Boost immunity: Ensure good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to keep the immune system strong. Vaccination: While there is no specific vaccine for HMPV yet, ensure you are up to date with vaccines for other respiratory infections like flu and COVID-19 to reduce the overall burden on the immune system. Advertisement Will it cause another pandemic in India? While HMPV is a significant respiratory pathogen, it is unlikely to cause a pandemic on the scale of COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV does not have the same level of asymptomatic spread or long incubation period, and it tends to cause more localised outbreaks. However, it can lead to serious illness in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. To prevent a widespread outbreak, maintaining good hygiene, promoting vaccination against other respiratory illnesses, and monitoring new cases closely will be crucial. Is it like COVID? While HMPV and COVID-19 share similar symptoms, such as cough, fever and shortness of breath, they are caused by different viruses. HMPV is typically milder compared to COVID-19 but can still cause significant illness, especially in those with underlying health conditions. The key differences lie in their transmissibility, severity and potential for long-term complications. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV does not cause the same level of systemic involvement or require the intensive care treatments associated with severe COVID cases. Advertisement In conclusion, HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause significant illness, especially in vulnerable groups, but with proper precautions and awareness, its spread can be minimised. Several cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in India, China and a few other countries. The two Asian countries have confirmed infections in young children. Heres why kids are vulnerable read more India has reported seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus whose symptoms are usually similar to a cold. Two infants were infected in Karnatakas Bengaluru, two children tested positive in Maharashtras Nagpur, a baby in Gujarats Ahmedabad, and two cases emerged in Tamil Nadu one in Chennai and another in Salem. HMPV has spread in northern provinces of China among children under the age of 14 amid the annual winter surge in respiratory infections. Cases have also been reported in Hong Kong and Malaysia. Advertisement First identified by scientists in 2001, HMPV, which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections. As per Cleveland Clinic, young children, people over the age of 65 and those with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to serious illness. Lets take a closer look. HMPV infecting children China has seen a rise in HMPV cases in children, as per Chinese state media. According to China Dailys report last month, a Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official said that HMPV was among the respiratory viruses spreading in the country. Without disclosing the figures, the Chinese CDC on January 2 reported a spike in overall respiratory diseases between December 23 and December 29. Kan Biao, head of the China CDCs National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, said in a statement on December 27 that the rate of HMPV among children aged 14 and below was increasing, according to China Daily. In India, five HMPV cases are confirmed to have been detected in children. Tamil Nadu has not released details about the two patients. Two children aged seven and 14 have been infected by the virus in Nagpur, as per an India Today report. A two-month-old boy tested positive for HMPV at a private hospital in Ahmedabad. Advertisement In Bengaluru, a three-month-old girl detected with the virus was discharged from the hospital, while a boy aged eight months is recovering. Both the patients had a history of bronchopneumonia, as per a statement by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In the wake of these cases, many private schools in Bengaluru city have asked parents not to send their children to classes if they have even a mild cough, cold, or fever, reported The Hindu. Malaysias health ministry reported 327 cases of HMPV infections last year, a 45 per cent surge from the 225 cases in 2023. Why children can get seriously ill Most cases of HMPV are mild. However, about five per cent to 16 per cent of children develop a lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia, as per the Cleveland Clinic report. It says that young kids are at a higher risk of serious illness because a person is more likely to get severely sick the first time they contract HMPV. Advertisement Children, immunocompromised populations and the elderly are susceptible and they are more likely to be co-infected with other respiratory viruses. HMPV often causes common cold symptoms, manifested as cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing, but sometimes it can result in bronchitis and pneumonia in severe cases, Chinas CDC reportedly said. China has seen a surge in HMPV cases in children below 14 years of age. Representational Image/Reuters Experts say the risk of HMPV has not notably changed since its discovery in 2001. HMPV has been recognised as a significant problem in the at-risk population across the world since the turn of the century when it was first discovered, Andrew Easton, a virology professor at the University of Warwick in the UK who studies pneumoviruses, told Live Science in an email. That risk has not changed significantly over the last almost 25 years. Advertisement He added but it is always concerning to see a change in the incidence or pattern of an infection. HMPV is a serious concern especially for very young infants in the first year of life, Easton said, adding that so is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or seasonal influenza. Is there a need for alarm? Public health experts have been emphasising that HMPV is not a new virus and there is no need to panic. Fears of it turning to another COVID-19-like pandemic have also been dismissed. Former chief scientist of the World Health Organization Dr Soumya Swaminathan wrote on X, Its a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild." Urging people to take precautions, she said, 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 if severe symptoms. Advertisement Speaking to The Washington Post, Amesh Adalja, an infectious-diseases physician and senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, said, People dont realise that metapneumovirus virus is just one of those cadre of viruses that causes upper respiratory infections and has been doing so for a very long time. Were just getting better about testing it and naming it. That can sometimes lead to stories that can be sensationalistic. There is no vaccine for HMPV. To prevent infection, experts recommend washing hands, covering your nose and mouth while sneezing, wearing masks outside and avoiding sick people. With inputs from agencies Chinas outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has led to global concern. Tensions have further escalated with India confirming seven cases. The situation has raised questions about similarities between HMPV and Covid-19, as both viruses cause respiratory symptoms read more An outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has caused global concern. In India, now has seven confirmed cases of HMPV cases have been identified in two in Bengaluru, two in Nagpur, two in Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ | How the country is preparing to stop spread of HMPV According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), none of the infected babies or their families have a recent history of travel. Advertisement As the world continues to recover from the threat of Covid-19, any similarity to the previous pandemic raises alarm. However, health experts in India, along with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, have dismissed the possibility of HMPV causing widespread disruption. What is HMPV? Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections, such as cold. It is a seasonal illness, typically observed in winter and early spring, resembling viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza. Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes RSV, as per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat. According to the Cleveland Clinic, most cases are mild, but young children, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness. HMPV is common, with most people contracting it before the age of five. While reinfections are possible, cases in the future are generally mild. Research indicates the virus has been in circulation for at least six decades and is now widely recognised as a common respiratory pathogen worldwide. ALSO READ | After China, HMPV cases in India, Hong Kong: Is the scare of another pandemic real? Advertisement How similar is HMPV to Covid-19? HMPV shares several similarities with Covid-19. Both viruses cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, fever, congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath, and they spread through respiratory droplets, according to WebMD. The human metapneumovirus (HMPVI) mimics the symptom of the common cold. Image for Representation. Pixabay According to Science Direct, Covid-19 appears to be temperature-sensitive and seasonal. Similarly, HMPV infections tend to peak during distinct annual seasons, particularly from late winter to early spring, as per the US CDC. While HMPV can be detected year-round, cases are most prevalent during this period. Former ICMR scientist Dr Raman Gangakhedkar has, however, dismissed fears of HMPV causing another pandemic. He told News18, It can only harm young children below five years who are yet to gain exposure or immunocompromised individuals, that too in rare scenarios. He added that HMPV has been prevalent globally for many years, with most people already having developed immunity. Advertisement Studies suggest that HMPV cases surged in some regions after Covid-19 restrictions were lifted. Reduced exposure to viruses during lockdowns likely weakened immunity, leading to an increase in respiratory infections once precautions were eased. How does HMPV spread? Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be transmitted via contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Dr Sanchayan Roy, senior consultant in internal medicine at Apollo Spectra, Delhi, explained to News18 that HMPV primarily targets the lungs and airways. While it generally presents with mild cold-like symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, and fever, HMPV can lead to more severe complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems," Roy said. 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. pic.twitter.com/GRV3XYgrYX SARSCoV2 (COVID-19) (@COVID19_disease) January 1, 2025 Advertisement What are the symptoms of HMPV? What causes the infection? Symptoms of HMPV include: Fever Cough Wheezing Runny or stuffy nose Sore throat Rash Shortness of breath (dyspnoea) The infection is caused by a virus from the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes those responsible for RSV, measles, and mumps, according to Cleveland Clinic. The virus uses human cells to replicate, spreading throughout the respiratory system. Should India be worried? Dr Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm regarding HMPV. He said that respiratory infections commonly surge in winter and that Indian hospitals are equipped with the necessary supplies and beds to handle such cases. I want to request the public to take general precautions, which means, those who have cough and cold should prevent coming in contact with other people to prevent the spread and take normal medicines prescribed for cold and fever Otherwise, nothing to be alarmed about the present situation, Dr Goel told ANI. Advertisement How HMPV is spreading in Asia India has reported three confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), two in Bengaluru and one in Ahmedabad. According to the Ministry of Health, none of the patients had a history of international travel. In China, HMPV cases have risen significantly, primarily affecting children under 14. Northern provinces have reported an increase in infections, and between December 16 and 22, 2024, a spike in acute respiratory diseases was observed, Reuters reported. Images and videos circulating on social media show individuals wearing masks in hospitals. The Chinese authorities have also implemented emergency measures to curb the virus spread, The Independent reported. Meanwhile, Malaysia recorded 327 HMPV cases in 2024, a 45% rise compared to 225 cases in 2023, as per The Straits Times. Hong Kong has also identified a few HMPV cases while neighbouring countries like Cambodia and Taiwan are maintaining caution. In Japan, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Already grappling with a flu outbreak, Japan reported 94,259 influenza cases in the week leading up to December 15, 2024, according to the Japan Broadcasting Corporation. With inputs from agencies Three workers among nine trapped in a flooded coal mine in Assams Dima Hasao district have died. Rescue operations are underway to safely bring out the remaining six workers stuck since Monday morning. Meanwhile, the bodies of three have been spotted but have not been recovered read more At least three among total nine workers trapped in a flooded coal mine in Dima Hasao district of Assam, a north-eastern state of India, have died on Tuesday. Rescuers have been working for more than 24 hours to save those trapped since Monday morning. A report by Reuters quoted the local government saying that three bodies have been spotted by rescue teams but have not yet been recovered. Assam rat hole mine rescue On Monday (January 6) morning, nine workers aged between 26 and 57 got trapped in a coal mine in 3 Kilo, Umrangso, in the hilly Dima Hasao district. With the mine located in a remote location, rescue operations could not be carried out at full pace on Monday. On Tuesday morning, 30 personnel of the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and eight personnel of the State Disaster Relief Force reached the spot and commenced the rescue operation. Advertisement Also, specialist divers, Engineers Task Force with equipment, medical team and support staff from the Army as well as Assam Rifles reached the site on Tuesday morning to speed up the rescue efforts. The Army said that it has deployed divers, helicopters and engineers to help rescue the trapped workers. #IndianArmy launched a Relief Task Force to rescue trapped miners in Umrangso, Dima Hasao, #Assam on 6 Jan. Carrying all necessary equipment, the rescue operation commenced this morning, in coordination with Civil Administration.#UmrangsoRescue@SpokespersonMoD @mygovassam pic.twitter.com/X123vvIkiQ PRO Defence, Manipur, Nagaland & South Arunachal (@prodefkohima) January 7, 2025 Notably, the mine in which nine workers are trapped, is said to be close to Assams border with Meghalaya where 15 workers died in one of the worst mining mishaps in 2018 after being trapped in a rat-hole mine in Meghalayas East Jaintia Hills. What were the workers doing inside the mine? A report by The Indian Express quoted NDRF Second in Command (Operations/Training) Kuldeep Sharma as saying that the workers, who got trapped, were working in rat holes connecting to the central pit of the mine when it got flooded. But how the mine got flooded The Reuters report cited Dima Hasao district police chief Mayank Kumar as saying, The mine got flooded yesterday the source was internal. They (the miners) probably hit some water channel and water came out and flooded it. Meanwhile, the IE report quoted Sharma, as saying, It is a coal mine and there are rat hole mines at a depth of 300 feet or so. When the miners were digging there, they contacted some water source and damaged it, due to which it was flooded. At that time itself, using cranes and trolleys, some were rescued by locals but around nine remained trapped, he said. Advertisement Challenges in rescuing workers trapped in Assam mine Sharma said the primary challenge is the depth of the pit which is now flooded. Teams have already gone down once for depth assessment and are trying to find the best possible way to retrieve them, the IE report quoted Sharma as saying. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday released the list of workers trapped in the mine. He further said that the team at the site has assessed that the water level inside has surged to nearly 100 feet. List of Laborers Trapped in Mine (Umrangsu) 1.Ganga Bahadur Shreth (38 years) S/o: Late Man Harbhajan Shreth R/o: Rampur (Dummana-2Bhijpur), PS Thoksila, Dist: Udayapur, Nepal 2.Hussain Ali (30 years) S/o: Alom Uddin R/o: Bagaribari, PS Shyampur, Dist: Darrang, Assam 3.Jakir https://t.co/cCx6CYSa93 Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Navy deep divers have been requisitioned to assist in the rescue operation The divers are flying in from Vishakhapatnam and are expected to arrive soon, Sarma said. With inputs from agencies. The Election Commission of India (ECI) will hold a press conference on Tuesday at 2:00 pm at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi to announce the schedule for the upcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly election. read more The Election Commission of India (ECI) will hold a press conference on Tuesday to announce the schedule for the upcoming Delhi Legislative Assembly election. The press conference is scheduled for 2:00 pm at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The Delhi election is likely to be a three-cornered contest, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) exerting pressure on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which is looking for a fourth consecutive term. The Congress, on the other hand, looks to make a comeback, having lost power in Delhi to an upstart AAP in 2013. Advertisement The AAP formed a minority government after the 2013 assembly election in Delhi as the voters sent a fractured mandate in the polls. The Congress extended support to the first Arvind Kejriwal government from outside. The government lasted only 49 days. In the next assembly election held in 2015, the AAP won 67 of the 70 seats in Delhi. In the 2020 Delhi Assembly election, the AAP won 62 out of 70 seats. The BJP won eight seats. The Congress failed to a single seat in both 2015 and 2020 assembly elections in Delhi. The AAP leader Kejriwal, who resigned as Delhi chief minister last year, recently claimed that there was a large-scale fraud happening with voter additions and deletions in the New Delhi Assembly constituency. He shared a letter from Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, which was sent to the Delhi chief electoral officer. Atishi claimed in her letter that thousands of voter addition and deletion applications were being processed. Between October 29, 2024, and January 2, 2025, there were over 13,000 Form-6 (voter additions) and 6,166 Form-7 (voter deletions), her letter said. The total number of votes in the New Delhi Assembly constituency is 106,873, and 6,166 votes (about 5.77 per cent) are being sought for deletion, the letter said. According to election rules, if more than two per cent of the votes are requested for deletion, the Election Registration Officer (ERO) must personally verify the deletions. Advertisement Responding to the AAPs claim, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva accused ruling party leaders Raghav Chadha and Sanjay Singh of threatening the election officer and demanded action against them. Sachdevas charge came after a letter from the New Delhi district election officer raised concerns about AAP leaders claims related to voter deletions. Sachdeva also alleged that AAP leaders, including Atishi, Kejriwal, Singh and Chadha, were involved in a plot to undermine democracy. The stage is set for a three-way fight between Aam Aadmi Party, BJP and Congress in the national capital with the Arvind Kejriwal-led government seeking a third consecutive term read more Delhi Assembly election will be held on February 5, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday. The poll will be held in a single phase for the 70 assembly seats and counting for the same will be held on February 8. CEC Kumar said that the date has been specifically chosen in the middle of the week (Wednesday) to avoid urban apathy. #WATCH | Delhi to vote in a single phase on February 5; counting of votes on February 8 #DelhiElections2025 pic.twitter.com/QToVzxxADK ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Advertisement CEC addresses key issues During the press conference, which will likely be the last one before his tenure ends, Kumar addresses issues levelled by the Opposition regarding the conduction of elections. In December, AAP claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party has been manipulating the electoral rolls by deleting voters from the list. I am coming to some serious issues In 2024, some apprehensions and doubts were raised. It was said that there were wrongful additions and deletions in electoral rolls this started recently after the general elections is currently going on in Delhi. It was also said that certain groups are targeted and the names of voters are removed, the CEC said adding that the polling body carries out lengthy procedures before removing names of voters from the electoral rolls and hence random deletions are not possible. #WATCH | Delhi | Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar says, "Indian voters are extremely aware... Stories are going around regarding electoral rolls, even now. Almost 70 steps are there...in which political parties and candidates remain with us... All the claims and objections that pic.twitter.com/eTiea0tCS3 ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Meanwhile, the authenticity of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) has resurfaced during the campaigning for the Delhi Assembly elections. Addressing this, Kumar said, There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in the EVM There is no question of introducing a virus or bug in the EVM. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. High Courts and the Supreme Court are continuously saying this in different judgments What else can be said? EVMs are foolproof devices for counting. Allegations of tempering are baseless. We are speaking now because we dont speak when elections are on. Advertisement #WATCH | Delhi | Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar says, "There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in the EVM... There is no question of introducing a virus or bug in the EVM. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. High Courts and pic.twitter.com/kwUhq7B6mK ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Delhi elections 2025 The stage is set for a three-way fight between Aam Aadmi Party, BJP and Congress in the national capital with the Arvind Kejriwal-led government seeking a third consecutive term. While AAP has released all the lists of candidates for the Delhi Assembly election, Congress has declared 48 out of 70 candidates and BJP has announced the first list with 29 candidates. The lists feature prominent names including BJPs Parvesh Verma, who is set to contest against former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi constituency, and Ramesh Bidhuri, who will challenge Chief Minister Atishi in Kalkaji. As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians converge towards a transformative vision of a Swarnim Bharat (Golden India), Shaktishali Bharat (Powerful India) and Sthir evam Sashakt Bharat (Stable and Empowered India). This vision calls for a budget that addresses pressing economic concerns while laying a strong foundation for sustainable growth, inclusivity and resilience. With expectations running high, several pivotal reforms and initiatives across sectors are anticipated to shape the nations trajectory. Advertisement Advocacy for abolition of STT The financial markets, being the lifeblood of the economy, are advocating for the abolition of Securities Transaction Tax (STT). Introduced as a revenue-generation mechanism, STT has been viewed as a burden on market participants, especially retail investors. Eliminating this tax will significantly reduce transaction costs, encouraging broader market participation and enhancing liquidity. Expanding income tax exemption slab A major expectation from the Union Budget 2025 is the revision of the income tax exemption slab to Rs25 lakh. This bold move will have far-reaching implications. By providing tax relief to a broader segment of the middle and upper-middle class, the government will directly boost disposable incomes, catalysing consumer spending and economic activity. This measure, while ambitious, aligns with the evolving aspirations of a growing middle class that shoulders a significant part of the tax burden. Balancing fiscal prudence with such bold initiatives will demonstrate the governments commitment to its citizens welfare without compromising macroeconomic stability. Tackling cybercrime The budgetary allocations should allocate sufficient funds to tackle cases of cyber frauds and cyberbullying. These issues have increased manifold across the country in recent years. Fraudsters are targeting people of all ages with a significant number of victims being senior citizens. The government must not turn a blind eye to this growing menace. Advertisement Dedicated funds can help establish specialised cybercrime units with trained personnel. Investment in advanced technology can aid in detecting and preventing cyber threats. Stronger cybersecurity measures are crucial to protect sensitive government and private data from hacking. Addressing cybercrime effectively will safeguard individuals and also strengthen the countrys digital infrastructure and trust in technology. Empowering women and youth The empowerment of women and youth remain integral to the narrative of Indias progress. For women, the budget must prioritise access to entrepreneurial funding, dedicated social security measures and skill development initiatives. Programmes encouraging womens participation in high-growth sectors such as technology, finance and healthcare will not only promote gender parity but also significantly enhance Indias GDP. For the youth, the government is expected to allocate resources towards skill enhancement, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy and robotics. Incentivising internships and apprenticeships through tax subsidies for companies could bridge the gap between education and employment, thereby tackling the pressing issue of youth unemployment. Advertisement Backbone of industrial progress Infrastructure, being the backbone of industrial progress, is expected to receive significant attention. Investments in roadways, railways, airports, waterways and renewable energy infrastructure will create a multiplier effect on employment, logistics efficiency and GDP growth. Special focus on Gram cities, urban transport systems and water conservation projects will ensure sustainable and inclusive development as well as a strong industrial base coupled with world-class infrastructure is the cornerstone of a self-reliant India. Strengthening Indias security Given the evolving geopolitical landscape, a robust defence budget is critical. The allocation is expected to support the modernization of armed forces, indigenous production of advanced weaponry and the development of cutting-edge technologies like drones, cyber defence systems and artificial intelligence. Advertisement Judicial reforms The Union Budget needs to address the pressing needs of Indias judiciary by allocating a robust budget for infrastructure development in courts. Despite being the backbone of the justice delivery system, many courts across the country struggle with inadequate infrastructure, including insufficient courtroom space, lack of technology integration and poor facilities for litigants and staff. The government must prioritise the allocation of funds towards modernising courtrooms, building new judicial complexes and digitising records to improve efficiency and accessibility. A specific focus should be on enhancing e-courts initiatives, which have gained traction in recent years. Allocating resources for video conferencing facilities, AI-driven case management systems and virtual courtrooms will not only expedite case disposal but also ensure access to justice for those in remote areas. Furthermore, adequate provisions should be made for setting up alternative dispute resolution (ADR) centres within court complexes to reduce the burden on traditional courts. Advertisement A budget for Bharats aspirations The Union Budget 2025 should balance the twin goals of short-term economic recovery and long-term structural reforms. From empowering individuals with tax reforms to bolstering industries with supportive policies, every measure must resonate with the overarching vision of a Swarnim Bharat that is not just economically powerful but also socially inclusive. By addressing the aspirations of women, youth, industries and rural communities while investing in defence, innovation and infrastructure, the budget has the potential to redefine Indias growth story for decades to come. As the Finance Minister prepares to unveil the budget, all eyes are on how it will translate the dreams of a billion into actionable realities. A budget is not just a financial statement. It is a declaration of intent, a roadmap to a nations destiny. The author is a corporate and legal advisor and Founder of AU Corporate Advisory and Legal Services (AUCL). He tweets @akshat_khetan. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. With HMPV having similar symptoms as Covid-19, there have been a concern among many on whether the available coronavirus vaccine would help keep them immune to the currently spreading virus. The answer is no. Read to find out why read more Concerns are mounting among people across India with the cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) gradually rising in the country following the outbreak in China, scaring them of similar occurrence during Covid-19 pandemic about five years ago. India, as of January 7, has seven confirmed cases of HMPV all among children between two months to 14 years. Authorities have increased surveillance and health officials across India have been adhering to all possible measures to contain the spread of HMPV, a flu-like respiratory illness that has overwhelmed hospitals across China. Advertisement Amid this many are drawing comparisons between HMPV and Covid due to similarities in symptoms between the two viruses. This has also raised a pertinent question among several people who are curious to know that since the symptoms of coronavirus and HMPV are akin, can the prevailing Covid vaccines shield them against HMPV? Can Covid vaccine protect you from HMPV? To begin with, one must know that HMPV is not a new virus. The symptoms are quite similar to those of the influenza virus. Also, at present there is no vaccine or specific treatment for HMPV. Most respiratory infections cause problems such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, rib movement, and a runny nose. Many symptoms of coronavirus are also similar, leading some people to believe HMPV and coronavirus are the same, a report by News18 quoted Dr Sunit Kumar Singh, Director and Senior Virologist of Dr Ambedkar Centre for Biomedical Research, New Delhi as saying. However, SARS-CoV-2 and HMPV belong to different virus families and have distinct antigenic properties. Therefore, the coronavirus vaccine may not offer protection against HMPV, Dr Singh said. The doctor further explained that most vaccines utilise viral proteins to elicit an antibody response in the body. Considering viral proteins differ, a vaccine developed for one virus is unlikely to be effective against another. Despite potential similarities, cross-protection cannot be assumed. A worrying characteristic of HMPV Though the testing of HMPV is available in India, a concerning trait of this virus is its RNA-based genome, which is prone to rapid mutations. As per the doctor, persistent mutations could lead to a surge in infections, possibly making the situation difficult to control. Meanwhile, it is still not confirmed if the HMPV infecting people in China is similar to the one infecting people in India. Analysing genome sequencing data of the virus in China would let researchers understand the similarities as well as differences between the HMPV strains present in China and India. Advertisement Also, genome sequencing will help understand why HMPV cases are surging in China. The Kerala Police has claimed to have solved a 19-year-old murder case with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), leading to the arrest of two former armymen for allegedly killing a woman and her 17-day-old twin children in 2006 read more The Kerala Police has claimed to have solved a 19-year-old triple murder case with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). In a case of murder of a woman and her 17-day-old twins in 2006, the Kerala Police last week arrested two former armymen with the help of AI, according to The Indian Express. In 2006, when the case was first reported, the police swiftly identified Divil Kumar and Rajesh as suspects. The two armymen belonged to Kerala and were stationed in Punjabs Pathankot. However, despite early progress, the suspects vanished and the case eventually remained unsolved for nearly two decades. Advertisement Nineteen years later, on January 4, 2025, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested the two men in Puducherry, where they had been living under false identities. Divil Kumar, now 42, had assumed the name Vishnu, while Rajesh, 48, adopted new name Praveen Kumar. They were working as interior designers and were married to schoolteachers. The breakthrough in the case was made possible through a combination of advanced AI technology and persistent investigation. Kerala ADGP (Law and Order) Manoj Abraham told The Indian Express, Our technical intelligence team used artificial intelligence to revisit this long-pending case. Old photographs of the suspects were digitally aged to predict their current appearance, factoring in changes such as hairstyles and facial features. These AI-generated images were then cross-referenced with photos on social media platforms. One AI image had a 90 per cent match with a wedding photograph found on Facebook. This match led us to Rajesh in Puducherry, who eventually guided us to Divil. Since the case was under the jurisdiction of the CBI, we informed their Chennai unit, which carried out the arrests. Abraham emphasised the rarity of AI being used in solving such an old criminal case. Ranjini and the accused Divil, neighbors from Alayamon in Kollam, were in a relationship. When Ranjini became pregnant and decided to keep the babies, their relationship soured, and Divil returned to his Army post in Pathankot. In January 2006, Ranjini gave birth to twin daughters at a hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. Rajesh, a colleague and friend of Devil in the Army, posed as Anil Kumar from Kollam to befriend Ranjini. Police revealed that Rajesh and Devil conspired to kill Ranjini and her children. Both were on leave when the alleged crime occurred. On the day of the alleged crime, Rajinis mother returned from the panchayat office where she had gone to collect the twins birth certificates and found Rajini and her newborn twins dead. Advertisement Self-styled godman Asaram Bapu is serving multiple life imprisonment sentences for multiple convictions in rape cases read more The Supreme Court has granted interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu. He is in jail for multiple rape convictions. In 2018, Asaram was sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a minor. In 2023, he was handed another life imprisonment sentence for rape of a minor. Asaram was first arrested in 2013 and has been in jail for most of the time since. He has a vast following and has dozens of ashrams across India. Advertisement In its order, the Supreme Court said Asaram cannot meet his followers and the bail is only for medical purposes. The SC has granted the bail till March 31. The bail comes within a week of Asaram returning to his jail in Rajasthans Jodhpur after 17 days of parole. The SC also said that the police would only accompany Asaram for treatment but not dictate where he may seek treatment. Last year, Asaram had similarly sought treatment in Jodhpur and Maharashtras Pune. The Islamist tentacles of ABT, along with various other Jihadi organisations, are more visible in Bangladesh, with newfound strength and confidence, which is not only self-destructive for Bangladesh but also poses a grave security challenge for India read more Since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent installation of a caretaker government of Mohammad Yunus, Bangladesh has been experiencing increased Islamist radicalisation and vicious defiance towards the religious minorities of Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists. The various terror conglomerates are running an open show, flexing their jihadi muscles. One such terror outfit, the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), has come to the forefront because of the state support and is also posing a threat to Indias internal security. Advertisement Lately, there has been a series of incidents involving the release from prison of ABT militants under the aegis of Yunuss government: On December 24, an ABT operative, identified as Al Amin, was released from Kashimpur Central Jail Part-2 in Gazipur District of Dhaka Division. On the same day, Harun-ur-Rashid from the same organisation was released from Chapainawabganj jail in Chapai Nawabganj District of Rajshahi Division. On December 23, another ABT terrorist, identified as Iqbal Hossain, was released from prison in an unspecified location after getting bail from the court on December 17, 2024. On December 21, a convicted operative of ABT, identified as Jikrullah, was released from Kashimpur Central Jail in the Gazipur District of Dhaka Division. He was convicted for the murder of blogger Wasikur Rahman Babu in 2015, as part of his extremist mission. He exited the prison compound and was escorted by armed ABT operatives to an undisclosed location. From Indias security point of view, an ominous development was reported on December 18: ABT is trying to train up a few people and send them to India to indulge in acts of violence. A large number of Rohingya are now taking shelter in Bangladesh after they were displaced from Myanmar. ABT is also trying to train up a few of the Rohingya and send them to India to remain as sleeper cells. Such sleeper cells can be activated whenever required to indulge in acts of violence. Concurrently, on December 30, the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) arrested two persons suspected to belong to ABT from Nowda in the Murshidabad district. A day earlier, on December 29, a combined team of Assam Police STF and Kokrajhar Police arrested an operative of ABT, identified as Gazi Rahman, accused of anti-national operation, from Kokrajhar district of Assam. Advertisement The operations have targeted areas across Kokrajhar and Dhubri districts of Assam, dismantling sleeper cells and preventing potential terror attacks. The primary objective of the sleeper cells was to encourage local youths in anti-national activities and recruit them. They were also arranging arms and ammunition. The sleeper cells were primarily active in districts of Murshidabad and Alipurduar. An unnamed IPS officer stated, Their prime target was the Siliguri Corridor, or Chickens Neck, which serves as the gateway to the northeastern states. Earlier, on August 26, ABT chief Mufti Jashimuddin Rahmani was released on bail from Kashimpur High-Security Central Jail in the Gazipur District of Dhaka Division. He had been sentenced to five years in jail in 2015 for inciting the murder of blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider through his sermons. Deputy Jailer Mohammad Farhad Sarkar stated that Rahmani was released because there were no objections from the court or prison authorities, despite the four cases against him. Advertisement After being released from prison, as reported in the early days of September, 2024, Rahmani threatened India, calling for Pakistan and Afghanistans support in Jammu and Kashmirs independence and urging regions like the northeastern states, West Bengal, and Khalistani Sikhs to join freedom movements. Rahmani stated, I am warning India Bangladesh is not like Sikkim or Bhutan. It is a country of 18 crore Muslims If you take a step towards Bangladesh, we will tell China to close the Chickens Neck [Siliguri corridor]. We will tell the Seven Sisters [northeastern states] to join the freedom movement. He further threatened India, saying, Tell Kashmir to get ready for freedom. Pakistan and Afghanistan together will help Kashmir gain independence. We will tell Mamata Banerjee to free West Bengal from Modis rule and declare independence." He added, I will tell the Sikhs that your time has come; now call for freedom, to those Sikhs who are Khalistanis, in every province of India, your time has come. Advertisement ABT has always been indoctrinating and recruiting jihadi elements among the youth. Its main target group for recruitment is highly motivated and well-educated university students, especially those familiar with the English language and active on social media. However, ABT also recruits from the poorer and more conservative sections of society as well as from the Islamic political organisation Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its youth wing, the Islami Chhatra Shibir. Though banned by the Awami League government of Sheikh Hasina on May 26, 2015, ABT came into the forefront more than 10 years back when it first hit headlines with the assassination of anti-Islamist blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider, an architect by profession, on February 5, 2013, in Dhaka city. Later in May, 2013, it issued a list of 84 atheist bloggers in Bangladesh on the grounds that All of them are enemies of Islam (sic). The bloggers were ruthlessly murdered with the intention of silencing moderate and secular voices within Bangladesh. Advertisement ABT operatives with Information Technology (IT) skills were managing fake Facebook pages and using accounts to hunt down atheists so that the groups armed cadres could attack them. Moreover, in 2015, al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) also joined ABT in threatening rational and secular minds. In a message posted on justpaste.it, AQIS declared in the wake of blogger Ananta Bijoy Dass killing (hacked to death in 2015): We want to say to atheist bloggers! We dont forget, and we will not forget others who insult our beloved Prophet Muhammad and Allah. Another file closed! Stay tuned for the next target. ABT started its Islamist extremist activities under the banner of a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Research Centre for Unity and Development, way back in 2004. The group follows the ideals, policy, and strategy of al Qaeda and the Pakistan-based terror outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). It has an ulterior motive of gaining control of a part of the country (Bangladesh) and conducting armed jihad from there to make Bangladesh a Sharia-based Islamic State. There have been earlier reports of the arrest of ABT militants in India. In 2022, it was reported that Lashkar-e-Taiba was collaborating with ABT, as they established a base in West Bengal with the aim of launching attacks in India. Along with Bangladesh, ABT has been banned in India, the UK, and the US. Intelligence inputs from 2022 also indicate that around 50 to 100 ABT cadres were planning to infiltrate Tripura. Moreover, between 2022 and 2023, more than 60 ABT operatives were arrested from Tripura and Assam, of which more than 30 were from Bangladesh. Nevertheless, since August 2024, the Islamist tentacles of ABT, along with various other Jihadi organisations, are more visible in Bangladesh, with newfound strength and confidence. The situation is not only alarming for Bangladesh, which has been completely devoid of its secular fabric, but the anti-terror operations in India are also very much indicative of a growing percolation of Jihadi mobilisation, posing a threat to Indian democracy, within many states. The writer is Research Fellow, Institute for Conflict Management, New Delhi. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The renewed interest in India can be attributed to the developing international situations, including economic distress in China, supply chain disruptions, rising strategic risks, and increasing protectionism in traditionally preferred markets read more India and Japan have set an investment target of 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) by 2027 and now seem to be on the way to fulfilling it. Image: REUTERS Japanese companies have significantly revised their outlook on India as a market and are displaying greater enthusiasm for conducting business here. A recent survey conducted by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) revealed that 80 per cent of respondents expressed interest in expanding their business operations in India over the next two years. This marks an increase of 4.7 per cent in enthusiasm compared to the previous year. The shift in interest is partially due to diminishing confidence in China, where business sentiment among Japanese firms dropped by 21.7 per cent, the lowest level since 2007. Similarly, Thailanda traditionally favoured destination for Japanese businessesexperienced an 8.1 per cent decline in enthusiasm, dropping to 34.1 per cent from the previous year due to political instability. Advertisement India has now emerged as the most attractive destination for Japanese businesses, followed by Brazil, the UAE, Vietnam, South Korea, and South Africa. The survey, conducted between August and September 2024, polled Japanese companies operating across 83 countries. This renewed interest in India can be attributed to the evolving international landscape, including economic distress in China, supply chain disruptions, rising strategic risks, and increasing protectionism in traditionally preferred markets. India and Japan have set an investment target of 5 trillion yen ($42 billion) by 2027 and now seem to be on the way to fulfilling it. Notably, 66 per cent of the companies polled anticipate profitability in 2024, driven by growing domestic demand in the Global South, particularly in India, Brazil, Mexico, and Vietnam. In contrast, Japanese firms operating in China, Thailand, Germany, and the Netherlands foresee lower returns, especially in the automotive sector. Despite this, only about 1 per cent of respondents indicated plans to relocate from these markets, signalling patience and a focus on diversifying services and seeking new opportunities. In addition to India, Japanese businesses are expanding their interests in the UAE, Latin America, and Africa. This shift reflects a strategic move towards the Global South, where larger market sizes, growth potential, and strong entry points offer attractive opportunities. Over the past five years, Japanese companies have increased their market penetration in India and Mexico. However, they face growing competition from European and US companies. In Thailand and Vietnam, Chinese firms challenge them, and Chinese domestic companies dominate the current Chinese market. Despite economic challenges in China, local companies there are outperforming their Japanese counterparts. In India, however, nearly 55 per cent of Japanese firms surveyed expect profits to rise, representing the highest level of confidence among all countries polled by JETRO. This marks the highest confidence level in India since 2008. The Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) published a report in December outlining the outlook for Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI). The report showed that 58 per cent of Japanese entrepreneurs view India as a promising market over the next three years, reflecting a 10 per cent increase from the previous survey. Conversely, confidence in investing in China has dropped to 17 per cent . Advertisement Indias robust economic growth, expanding population, and the rise of the middle class have made it an attractive destination for Japanese investment. These factors, coupled with sustained economic progress, have led to higher profits and greater satisfaction among Japanese businesses operating in India. Nonetheless, the survey highlighted concerns regarding potential political instability, particularly the coalition at the central government level. Additionally, international scrutiny of certain Indian companies for questionable business practices remains a point of concern for Japanese investors. Political instability and lack of transparency are significant deterrents for Japanese businesses. Despite these concerns, Japanese investment in India in 2024 surpassed previous years, even as global FDI flows into India slowed. Japanese companies are increasingly looking to diversify regional supply chains between India and ASEAN countries. While component exchanges are already occurring, there is potential for developing larger supply chains for complete products. For this the review of the AITIGA is imperative and could be concluded this year. Advertisement Japanese firms have long expressed concerns over rising labour costs, high employee turnover, and frequent changes in tax regulations, which often necessitate adjustments to business plans. While new Japanese entrants into the Indian market remain limited, established players continue to expand their investments, reaping the benefits of long-term commitment and patience. Although larger firms are increasing their investments, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from Japan remain hesitant. SMEs, which constitute only about 15 per cent of Japanese companies in India, are reluctant to commit due to the long-term nature of the Indian market and the associated risks. This hesitancy is further compounded by the weakening of Japans keiretsu (company network) system, which traditionally facilitated SME expansion abroad. As a result, many new Japanese firms must now enter foreign markets independently, rather than as part of a broader network or as ancillary businesses. Advertisement Overall, Japanese companies are adapting to shifting global dynamics by exploring new markets and expanding their presence in India and other emerging economies. This strategic realignment underscores the importance of India as a key partner for Japanese businesses seeking growth and stability in an evolving international environment. This growth of Japanese businesses in India is a good tribute to the legacy of Osamu Suzuki, who passed away at 94 on December 25, 2024. His visionary leadership and strategic decisions as Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation were instrumental in transforming Indias automotive landscape, particularly through the introduction of the Maruti 800, which became a symbol of affordable mobility for millions. Now it is time for another set of such champions from Japans medium-sized companies to rise in India the successful way Suzuki has and diversify from the automobile to other sunrise sectors. Advertisement The author is a former ambassador to Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, ASEAN and the African Union. He tweets @AmbGurjitSingh. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. President Erdogans emphasis on Muslim solidarity, and stand-up anti-colonial rhetoric like African Solutions for African Problems have smartly cultivated Turkeys goodwill as a middle power and a reliable developmental partner amidst West-China rivalry on the continent read more The recent signing of a Turkey-brokered landmark agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia is a new milestone in Turkeys Africa outreach. Under the agreement, landlocked Ethiopia would be provided reliable, safe, and sustainable maritime access while respecting Somalias sovereignty and territorial integrity. In return, Ethiopia agreed to withdraw its recognition of the de facto state of Somaliland. The deal will end a decade-old rift between the two countries. While the deal is a welcome move in bringing regional stability, it reflects Turkeys growing influence in Africa over the past decades. Advertisement Turkeys Africa Policy Turkeys proactive engagement with Africa began after the end of the Cold War and its disenchantment with the Western bloc, notably the denial of entry into the EU, and pivoted with the ascendance of Recep Tayyip Erdogan to power in 2002. Erdogan stressed the policy of zero problems with neighbours, under which he employed a religious and cultural flavour to gain influence in the region and beyond and to fasten economic and diplomatic ties, particularly with North and sub-Saharan Africa, once the outskirts of the erstwhile Ottoman Empire. Ankara released its foundational African Action Plan in 1998 to enhance diplomatic, socio-economic, and cultural ties with the continent. It culminated in Erdogans Opening to Africa policy in 2005 by becoming an observer member in the African Union and declaring it the Year of Africa and later becoming its strategic partner in 2008. Since then, the volume of trade between Turkey and Africa rose from $1.35 billion in 2003 to $40.7 billion in 2023. Developmental initiatives by Turkish construction firms, ie, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), have achieved a striving success in Africa, making investments of $77.8 billion by 2023. Moreover, Yap Merkezi and Summa, Turkish construction firms, have secured significant contracts, such as railway lines in Tanzania and Uganda, public buildings such as Equatorial Guineas Parliament, and ports in Somalia and Guinea. Turkeys engagement in large-scale development projects not only provides an alternative to Chinese debt traps facing criticism across the globe but also builds confidence in African nations against the former imperial powers in the West. Lydia Madencilik and Miller Holding, Turkish resource exploration companies, are mining gold and copper in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Recently, Nigers junta, which came to power in the 2023 coup while revoking permits of Western mining companies, most notably France, also signed deals allowing Turkey to explore crucial resources such as uranium, oil, and gas. Turkeys investments encompass sectors such as manufacturing, textiles, and energy, underscoring Ankaras diversification of export destinations and securing markets to guarantee raw materials and energy for its growing industries. Advertisement Defence and Security Relations The expanding Turkish military-industrial complex with advanced technology finds Africa an appealing market, especially considering the variety of intra- and inter-state conflicts across the continent, socio-political instability, chaos, and the rise of extremism. Furthermore, Africa is blessed with rich critical and mineral resources such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, etc, and is an attractive destination for world powers. Thus, making scope for Turkey to deepen its presence in the region. In recent years, an intensified military and defence engagement with many African countries, notably Somalia, Ethiopia, and Libya, is testimony to Ankaras desire for an extended role. Eyeing to bolster its influence in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the strategic Horn of Africa and the Gulf of Aden, Turkey sees Somalia as a gateway to it. In 2017, Turkey established its largest military base (TURKSOM) in the Somali capital, Mogadishu. Moreover, both countries are participating in the exploration and extraction of petroleum in Somalias Exclusive Economic Zone. Advertisement Under the auspices of NATOs Combined Task Force 151, Turkey has increased engagement in anti-piracy operations in the western Indian Ocean, as well as collaborating in combating terrorism and extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, etc. It has also signed a 99-year lease deal for the restoration of the Sudanese island of Suakin in the Red Sea to make it a tourist hub. The island is an Ottoman-era heritage port; Saudi Arabia and Egypt are alarmed if Turkey has military ambitions too. Moreover, Djibouti, which hosts French, US, and Chinese military bases, reportedly also invited Turkey to establish a naval base near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a strategic chokepoint covering 30 per cent of global trade. Advertisement Over the years, Turkish defence companies such as Baykar and Aselsan have effectively entered African defence markets. Ankara has also signed some significant arms deals with Kenya, Uganda, and Tunisia. Apart from that, Turkeys high-tech Bayraktar unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Ethiopia were proven to be a game changer in containing the civil war in the Tigray region. As per the action plan, the Turkish defence industry had estimated to increase defence exports to Africa to $10.2 billion by 2024. Geopolitical Entanglement Turkeys growing outreach to Africa is marked by economic pragmatism, cultural diplomacy, and securing defence and strategic partnerships and reflects a pivotal position for Africa in Ankaras foreign policy ambitions. Moreover, Erdogans emphasis on Muslim solidarity, mediation in resolving bilateral disputes, and stand-up anti-colonial rhetoric like African Solutions for African Problems have smartly cultivated Turkeys goodwill as a middle power and a reliable developmental partner amidst West-China rivalry on the continent. Advertisement However, Turkeys proactive engagement in Africa is part of what scholars termed neo-Ottomanism, which has irked regional powers like Egypt, Algeria, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, reminiscing about a dismal Ottoman past. On the other hand, Turkey provides a Turkish Model engaging and training local workers, fostering capacity building and skill development, an alternative to the traditional resource-exploitative, monopolistic, and debt-trapping powers such as the US, France, and China. The authors are doctoral fellows at the School of International Studies, JNU. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), led by Ahmed al-Sharaa Mohammed al-Jolani, seems to have converted it, at least overtly, into a high-profile, tactical, pragmatic, and smart diplomacy-driven group since December 8, when, with tremendous alacrity, ease, and speed, it deposed the half-century-old decrepit Assad regime, forcing president Bashar al-Assad to take refuge in Russiaits sole benefactor of consequence. Jolani not only changed his attire into fine Western outfits but also indulged in smart diplomacy and ear-pleasing statements for the Western powers like the UK and US, who have been banking on him and hankering for regime change in Syria since the Arab Spring days. Advertisement The number of Western leaders, as well as other important partners and supporters of HTS, has descended on Damascus to show support for the new regime while hoping to plug in their own agendas and ideological narratives at this early stage in return for certain specific relief to the HTS, which has been designated as the terror entity by the UN and the West. With a spate of interactions, some of the benefits have begun to trickle down. The US, after the visit of Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf, promised other assistance, including the removal of sanctions in a phased manner. Monitors love to think that they can keep the straight line going. The European Union also got equally optimistic urging for human rights, especially gender inequality, since the HTS, in its governed area of Idlib in the northwest of Syria, is known to have imposed strict Islamic conservative traditions, especially where women are concerned. Men, mostly their fighters, do believe in that socio-economic imperative, and hence whether they will be on board with their leaderships changed public posturing remains to be seen. French and German foreign ministers also dashed, and despite the handshake denial to the female German minister by Sharaa, they seemed quite hopeful of his pragmatism as the West promised to watch their actions on the ground going forward while easing sanctions and providing assistance to the new rulers as a carrot. Leader al-Sharaa did not disappoint as he appointed two women to high positions, including the first governor of the Central Bank of Syria. As has been broadly concluded, Turkey has been the biggest strategic gainer in this geopolitical turmoil, and very quickly it sent its intelligence chief to confer on strategies and further support in stabilising Syria. More importantly, the presence of the Kurdish fighters and independence-demanding The Peoples Defence Units (YPG) and Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) fighter groups has been the biggest headache for the Turkish leadership despite their constant bombing campaign. Besides, they form the critical part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is patronised by the Americans as part of their regional and anti-ISIS strategy, where they fought alongside while maintaining a constant threat for the Assad regime all these years. The US also increased its physical military presence from 900 to 2,000 and attacked a number of ISIS hideouts, which is taking a rebirth in the Levant yet again. A legitimate concern about Jolani and his hardline forces is their reincarnation and overt detachment from the ISIS and Al Qaeda ideologies as a strategic move to garner western legitimacy. The US holds the powerful cards of lifting the sanctions under Caesars Act as well as removing the terrorist tag from the HTS, which are strong levers to keep the new rulers under check for which it will seek full cooperation in its war against ISIS. Advertisement Although Secretary Antony Blinken rushed to meet Turkish FM Hakan Fidan as the fighting between Turkeys own forces and its ally Syrian National Army (SNA) against the US-backed SDF continues unabated, bringing the US and Turkeythe NATO partnersin direct challenge against the other. This accommodation will be quite difficult to achieve as the aspirations of the Kurdish people in the region are very strong for autonomy and independence and have also been used as a diplomatic tool by some Western powers against Ankara and Damascus at different times. Russians, preoccupied with their war with Ukraine and the West, do not have enough manoeuvrability but are hoping to retain their bases in Tartous and Latakia on the Mediterranean, which provided them sole strategic access in the region for their interests in Africa. They probably are counting on their frenemy Turkey for that while transferring most of the assets to their bases in Libya. The US and the West, of course, would prevail on the new regime not to concede. Jolani has, of course, stated that he would like to retain good relations with Moscow, which has historic military and cultural affinity with Syrian people and armed forces. Advertisement The new leadership has claimed to want peace in the region with all countries, but its problems with Israel and Iran could confound into conflagration. HTS stands for and supports the Palestinian cause, and there is no letup there, and it is sanguine about its own sovereignty and territorial integrity, and hence continued aggression and violation of territorial sovereignty and occupation of the Golan Heights rich in water by Israel has the potential to incinerate the conflict and even acts as a uniting panacea for all patriotic groups and people in the country. But stability through economic well-being seems to be the current strategy for the new regime. For the time being, Israel has secured itself on the Levant front. But for how long it will be remains an open question. Advertisement Tehran has lost its sheen and its asymmetric advantage due to the depletion of the Axis of Resistance and with the decimation of Hamas, Hezbollah, and the demise of the Assad regime. There is a significant Shia population in the country, including places of their worship, whose security remains a key concern. While Iran maintained its embassy, which was also attacked in the wake of turmoil, the vitriolic exchanges and statements leave no doubt that retrieving the relationship will be a major challenge for Iran. But it may not give up. Information warfare will be rejuvenated, creating some challenges for the new regime. Jolani has warned that normal diplomatic relations may continue, but non-interference in their internal affairs is the key. Advertisement The fact that the first foreign visit by the HTS-Syrian Foreign Minister, Assad al-Shaibani, accompanied by the defence minister and the intelligence chief, was to Saudi Arabia, which will be followed by Qatar, the UAE, and Jordan, indicates the new regimes relative preference in the region. He tweeted (X), We look forward to these visits contributing to supporting the stability and security, the economic recovery, and building distinguished partnerships. In Riyadh, after meeting his Saudi counterpart, he assured, Through our visit, we conveyed our national vision of establishing a government based on partnership and efficiency that includes all Syrian components and working to launch an economic development plan that opens the way for investment, establishes strategic partnerships, and improves living and service conditions. In fact, Qatar was quick to reopen its embassy, and its MoS for foreign affairs visited Damascus immediately, offering all assistance. It means that the exceptional financial and other humanitarian support Syria can receive from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is the major priority, while the continued participation in the Arab League and other regional institutions will render the requisite legitimacy in the Arab world to the new regime. Economically deprived, disgruntled, and disenfranchised Syrians need to be provided with dignity, financial comfort, and hope in the future, which can come only from the regional and international majors. The US still controls the Syrian oil fields and revenue, which needs to be made available to any regime. If it has to succeed, nearly 13 million internally displaced refugees in Jordan, Turkey, and Lebanon are wanting to return to their country. Lifting of the sanctions by the West remains a major priority, while trying to keep the pack together will not be an easy challenge since several of the militia groups that fought to oust Assad have not yet agreed to be part of the recognised forces proposed by Jolani. Political transitions are always fraught with hope and despair, but a lot depends on how the geopolitics of the times deliver or restrict the stabilisation in a particular country, and Syria is no exception. With initial euphoria out of the way, the complex socio-economic reality of the beleaguered Syria would want much more than a statement of intent either from the new rulers or its current and past benefactors. The author is the former Indian Ambassador to Jordan, Libya and Malta and is currently a Distinguished Fellow with Vivekananda International Foundation. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The satellite internet industry is becoming a competitive battleground, with companies rushing to deploy clusters of low-Earth orbit satellites. Amazons Project Kuiper aims to deploy 3,000 satellites, taking on SpaceXs Starlink read more While Kuiper plans to offer connectivity through small terminals initially, Amazon has hinted at exploring direct-to-device services. Image Credit Reuters Amazon is preparing to enter the UK as an ISP with its ambitious satellite broadband plan, aiming to deliver reliable connectivity to even the most remote areas. The tech giant, founded by Jeff Bezos, plans to leverage its Project Kuiper initiative to offer satellite internet access in the UK within the next two years. Regulatory filings reveal Amazons intention to secure British radio frequencies soon, as it prepares to launch a vast constellation of satellites into low-Earth orbit. Advertisement Competing in the satellite internet race The satellite internet industry is becoming a competitive battleground, with companies rushing to deploy clusters of low-Earth orbit satellites. These smaller satellites, orbiting less than 1,000 km from Earth, provide continuous coverage without the delays associated with geostationary satellites that orbit at 35,000 km. Amazons Project Kuiper aims to deploy 3,000 satellites, taking on SpaceXs Starlink, which has already established a commanding lead in the sector. Starlink operates with over 6,000 satellites and serves four million customers globally. Starlinks systems have also played a crucial role in Ukraine, demonstrating their potential for government and defence applications. While Kuiper plans to offer connectivity through small terminals initially, the company has hinted at exploring direct-to-device services. These would allow smartphones to connect directly to satellites, bypassing the need for specialised equipment. Amazon has asked UK regulator OFCOM to grant satellite providers broader access to radio spectrum, provided they do not disrupt existing mobile networks. Faster connectivity with cutting-edge satellites Direct-to-device technology could become available to UK consumers as soon as this year, pending Ofcoms upcoming consultations. Amazons filings suggest this service could benefit not only everyday users but also government, defence, and emergency responders seeking secure communication options. Amazon has faced delays with Project Kuipers satellite launches, initially scheduled for late last year. Despite this, the company successfully launched prototypes in 2023 and is now targeting the deployment of its first commercial satellites in 2024. A new rivalry in space Amazons move into satellite broadband marks yet another arena where Bezos and Elon Musk go head-to-head. Alongside Kuiper, Bezoss rocket company, Blue Origin, is preparing to launch its reusable New Glenn rocket. This system is designed to compete with SpaceXs game-changing Falcon 9, which has drastically reduced space launch costs. With satellite broadband promising improved global connectivity, Amazons plans could redefine how rural and underserved communities access the internet, while intensifying competition in the rapidly growing space technology market. AMDs expanded portfolio of AI PC processors sets a new benchmark for performance. The Ryzen AI Max Series, designed for premium thin and light notebooks, leads the charge with up to 16 Zen 5 CPU cores, 40 AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics compute units read more From the ultra-powerful Ryzen AI Max+ 395 to the gaming-optimised Ryzen 9950X3D and enterprise-ready Ryzen AI PRO 300 Series. This years lineup highlights AMDs innovation across multiple fronts. Image Credit: Reuters AMD made waves at CES 2025 with a series of groundbreaking announcements across consumer, gaming, and commercial segments. From powerful AI-enabled PCs to cutting-edge gaming hardware and a strategic partnership with Dell, AMD showcased its commitment to redefining computing experiences for users worldwide. This years lineup highlights AMDs innovation across multiple fronts. Whether its powering thin and light notebooks, enabling handheld gaming devices, or bringing AI into enterprise systems, AMDs latest technology ensures users are equipped for the demands of tomorrow. Advertisement AI-Driven Powerhouses for PCs AMDs expanded portfolio of AI PC processors sets a new benchmark for performance. The Ryzen AI Max Series, designed for premium thin and light notebooks, leads the charge with up to 16 Zen 5 CPU cores, 40 AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics compute units, and an AMD XDNA 2 Neural Processing Unit (NPU) offering up to 50 TOPS of AI performance. Models such as the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Ryzen AI Max 390 promise workstation-level power in portable devices. Image Credit: AMD Complementing this lineup are the Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, including the Ryzen AI 7 350 and Ryzen AI 5 340, which offer enhanced AI capabilities for mainstream notebooks. These processors boast up to eight CPU cores and AMD XDNA 2 technology for five times the AI performance of previous generations, making them ideal for AI-driven tasks like Microsoft Copilot+ experiences. AMD didnt forget everyday users either. The Ryzen 200 Series, including models like the Ryzen 9 270 and Ryzen 5 240, brings AI capabilities to essential applications, ensuring balanced performance and efficiency for day-to-day productivity. Systems powered by these processors are set to launch throughout 2025. Gaming Hits New Highs with Ryzen For gamers and creators, AMDs new processors promise unmatched performance. The Ryzen 9950X3D and Ryzen 9900X3D, powered by second-generation 3D V-Cache technology, are set to become must-haves for desktop enthusiasts. With up to 16 cores and 144 MB of cache, these processors deliver higher clock speeds and lower temperatures, ensuring peak performance for demanding gaming and content creation tasks. In the handheld gaming space, the Ryzen Z2 Series, including the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, redefines portable gaming with up to eight Zen 5 cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics. These processors are optimised for power efficiency, providing stunning visuals and responsive gameplay in compact devices. Models like the Ryzen Z2 Go cater to users seeking lighter, more versatile handheld options. Mobile gaming also gets a boost with the Ryzen 9000HX Series, including the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, which features up to 16 cores and advanced DDR5 memory support. These processors promise to power the most demanding gaming laptops, offering creators and gamers alike a seamless high-performance experience. With OEMs like ASUS, Lenovo, and Acer adopting these processors for their gaming systems, users can expect top-tier hardware in 2025, whether theyre battling in AAA titles or creating detailed 3D renders. Business-Class Power with Dell AMD and Dell took their long-standing collaboration to the next level, unveiling the first Dell commercial PCs powered by Ryzen AI PRO Series processors. Designed for modern enterprises, these processors combine CPU, GPU, and NPU functionality, enabling advanced AI features like live transcription and translation. Models like the Ryzen AI PRO 300 series cater to professionals who need seamless performance on the go. The partnership brings AI-powered innovation to the commercial space, integrating AMD PRO Technologies for enhanced security and streamlined IT management. Systems in the new Dell Pro portfolio, including notebooks and desktops, leverage the power of AMD Threadripper PRO processors and EPYC CPUs for intensive workloads, while Ryzen AI PRO processors handle everyday tasks with finesse. Advertisement With this collaboration, businesses can look forward to systems that enhance productivity, deliver exceptional ROI, and enable the workforce to embrace AI-driven workflows effortlessly. These devices are expected to roll out in 2025, setting a new standard for enterprise computing. The Future of Computing From the ultra-powerful Ryzen AI Max+ 395 to the gaming-optimised Ryzen 9950X3D and enterprise-ready Ryzen AI PRO 300 Series, AMDs portfolio ensures users are ready for whatever the future holds. Whether its enhancing AI capabilities, elevating gaming experiences, or enabling seamless business productivity, AMD is transforming the way we work, play, and connect. With these processors hitting the market throughout 2025, users can expect an exciting year of next-level computing. Intels new Core Ultra 200HX and H series processors cater to creators and gamers. Intel has also introduced the Core Ultra 200U series mobile processors. Intel is also made strides in edge computing with new Core Ultra processors read more Intel stole the spotlight at CES 2025, unveiling its new Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors. This latest line-up has been engineered to deliver groundbreaking performance for businesses, creative professionals, and gamers. Featuring advanced AI integration, improved efficiency, and robust capabilities, these processors promise to redefine the future of personal computing. Michelle Johnston Holthaus, interim co-CEO of Intel, described the Core Ultra processors as a leap forward in mobile AI and graphics performance, citing the strength of Intels ecosystem. Intel Core Ultra processors are setting new benchmarks for mobile AI and graphics, she said. With over 400 AI-driven features, the new processors aim to improve traditional PC functions like productivity and communication while enabling cutting-edge capabilities. Advertisement Core Ultra 200V Series: The Ultimate Business Companion Businesses aiming to embrace AI-driven innovation will find Intels Core Ultra 200V series processors a game-changer. These chips, powered by Intel vPro, combine exceptional performance gains, improved efficiency, and industry-leading security features to modernise IT environments. In collaboration with Microsoft, Intel has integrated these processors into Copilot+ PCs, which boast long battery life, next-level productivity, and seamless AI experiences. The updated vPro platform offers enhanced security, simplified device management, and broad app compatibility, ensuring a smooth transition for IT teams and businesses. Microsofts Pavan Davuluri praised the partnership, calling Copilot+ PCs an excellent choice for commercial users upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors are set to deliver an unparalleled mix of performance, reliability, and security for modern workplaces. Core Ultra 200HX and H Series: For Gamers and Creators on the Go Intels new Core Ultra 200HX and H series processors cater to creators and gamers, pushing the boundaries of performance and energy efficiency. These processors are designed for demanding tasks, from high-intensity gaming to 3D rendering and content creation. The Core Ultra 200HX processors feature up to 24 cores, combining Performance-cores and Efficient-cores, while the H series offers up to 16 cores. The HX models also integrate Intels Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI acceleration, delivering enhanced creative workflows and immersive gaming experiences. Key features include Intel Arc graphics, overclocking options for enthusiasts, and up to 48 PCIe lanes for better connectivity. Jim Johnson, senior vice president and interim leader of the Client Computing Group at Intel Corporation, in Las Vegas CES 2025. Image Credit: Intel Josh Newman, Vice President of Intels Client Computing Group, emphasised the processors transformative capabilities for mobile computing, stating that they elevate gaming and creative tasks to new heights. Core Ultra 200U and 200S Series: Affordable Performance and Desktop Power For everyday users, Intel has introduced the Core Ultra 200U series mobile processors. These chips balance power and efficiency, featuring two Performance-cores and eight Efficient-cores, paired with Intel Xe LPG graphics. They are ideal for mainstream users seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Core Ultra 200S series desktop processors cater to users who need a high-performing yet energy-efficient desktop solution. With up to eight Performance-cores and 16 Efficient-cores, the 200S series offers a compelling choice for gaming, creative work, and productivity tasks. Available in 65-watt and 35-watt configurations, these processors promise a seamless blend of power and efficiency for desktop enthusiasts. Advertisement AI at the Edge: Core Ultra 9 and Beyond Intel is also making significant strides in edge computing with the Core Ultra processors optimised for AI workloads. The Core Ultra 9 leads the pack, delivering massive performance gains in AI analytics, media processing, and other demanding applications. Compared to its predecessor, the Core Ultra 9 285H shows up to 2.2x faster computer vision performance, making it a formidable choice for edge AI tasks. Intel claims the Core Ultra 7 processor outpaces competitors like Nvidias Jetson AGX Orin in critical metrics, including media performance and efficiency per watt. This makes Intels processors a strong contender for industries requiring powerful edge computing solutions. Availability Intels Core Ultra 200V processors, with their Intel vPro platform integration, are now available through retailers and OEM partners. Systems powered by Core Ultra 200H and U series processors will be released in February 2025, followed by Core Ultra 200HX systems in the first half of the year. Desktop users can get their hands on Core Ultra 200S processors from January 13, 2025. With its Core Ultra Series 2 processors, Intel has delivered a comprehensive line-up to meet the needs of businesses, creators, gamers, and edge computing users. Whether youre upgrading an IT fleet or looking for cutting-edge performance in your gaming rig, Intels CES 2025 announcements signal an exciting year ahead for personal computing. Reports have revealed that the Presidents office sought details about the breach in May 2024. The cyberattacks, described as persistent and advanced, were linked to tactics commonly associated with the group APT 41, a team of state-sponsored hackers read more Chinas Foreign Ministry denied any involvement, stating that it opposes all forms of hacking and cyberattacks and criticised what it termed groundless political speculation. Image Credit: Reuters In a significant cybersecurity breach, Chinese state-sponsored hackers reportedly infiltrated the computer systems of the Philippine government, targeting the executive branch. The attack, which spanned several years, resulted in the theft of sensitive data, including military documents. Cybersecurity experts identified the breach as early as 2023, with further evidence of infiltration flagged in August 2024. A report by Bloomberg News reveal that the presidents office sought details about the breach in May 2024. Advertisement Years of breaches expose critical vulnerabilities The cyberattacks, described as persistent and advanced, were linked to tactics commonly associated with the hacking group APT 41, a state-sponsored entity known for its sophisticated operations. The stolen data reportedly included military documents, some relating to the Philippines territorial dispute in the South China Sea. Additionally, the hackers compromised other institutions, including hospital networks, highlighting the widespread nature of the campaign. The breaches were said to have occurred from early 2023 through mid-2024. Officials confirmed the ongoing nature of such attacks but refrained from specifying whether the presidents office or other key agencies were directly breached. Jeffrey Ian Dy, undersecretary for cybersecurity at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), noted that these cyberattacks are consistent with advanced persistent threats, targeting vulnerabilities in legacy systems and outdated software. International allies step In to support cybersecurity efforts The Philippines has received support from allies, including Australia, Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom, as well as assistance from cybersecurity firms. While the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was informed of the breaches, it declined to comment. Chinas Foreign Ministry denied any involvement, stating that it opposes all forms of hacking and cyberattacks and criticised what it termed groundless political speculation. Dy emphasised the challenges of repelling daily cyberattacks across various government branches, citing hundreds of thousands of attempts. He acknowledged that some breaches targeted outdated systems, with old data occasionally being reposted by attackers. However, he reassured that many attempts are detected early, allowing systems to be secured before sensitive data is compromised. Philippines under constant cyber siege At a press briefing, Dy revealed that public-facing government platforms, such as help desks, are often targeted. Despite the ongoing threats, he maintained that no current data has been compromised and challenged claims of successful data extractions. Dy reiterated that the government remains vigilant, continuously upgrading systems and enhancing defences to counter increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The breaches underscore the growing cybersecurity risks faced by governments worldwide, especially in a region fraught with geopolitical tensions. For the Philippines, strengthening digital infrastructure and addressing legacy vulnerabilities are now critical to safeguarding national security. Microsofts long-standing presence in India has been instrumental in fostering this growth. Since setting up operations in Hyderabad, the company has expanded its workforce to 10,000 employees and made significant infrastructure investments read more In a post shared on social media, PM Modi appreciated Microsoft's efforts and noted the fruitful discussions on technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation during their meeting. Image Credit: X.com/@satyanadella Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met Microsoft CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella to discuss the tech giants ambitious expansion and investment strategies for India. PM Modi expressed delight over Microsofts plans and highlighted their potential to drive innovation and technological growth in the country. In a post shared on social media, PM Modi appreciated the companys efforts and noted the fruitful discussions on technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation during their meeting. Microsofts commitment to Indias AI-first future Following the meeting, Nadella emphasised Microsofts dedication to making India an AI-first nation and expanding its presence in the country. He praised Indias leadership in embracing technology and reaffirmed the companys commitment to leveraging AI to benefit every Indian. 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. https://t.co/ArK8DJYBhK Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 6, 2025 Advertisement India has emerged as a crucial hub for developers, with its community rapidly growing on platforms like GitHub, which is owned by Microsoft. Currently, India boasts 13.2 million developers on GitHub, making it the fastest-growing market. Projections suggest that India will surpass the United States as the largest developer community on the platform by 2027. Additionally, India ranks second globally for generative AI projects hosted on GitHub, highlighting the nations potential in shaping the future of AI-driven solutions. Indias developers shaping global innovation Nadella underscored the transformative impact of the next generation of AI, which is reshaping how developers create solutions worldwide, including in India. He expressed enthusiasm over the innovative ways Indian developers are using Microsofts technology to build tools and products for both domestic and global challenges. Microsofts long-standing presence in India has been instrumental in fostering this growth. Since setting up operations in Hyderabad, the company has expanded its workforce to 10,000 employees and made significant infrastructure investments, including developing a 600 MW data centre capacity in the region. Strengthening tech partnerships for the future The meeting between PM Modi and Nadella signals a strong partnership between the Indian government and Microsoft to promote technological advancement. With a shared focus on AI and innovation, the collaboration aims to enhance digital transformation across sectors, empowering communities and businesses. As Microsoft deepens its commitment to India, the countrys role as a global technology leader continues to solidify, paving the way for breakthroughs in AI and software development that could shape the future of technology worldwide. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is said to feature a titanium frame with refined curved edges, offering a sleeker and more durable design compared to its predecessor. The display is rumoured to expand slightly to 6.9 inches. In India, Samsung has also opened pre-reservations for the series read more Samsung is gearing up to unveil its next-generation Galaxy S25 series, with leaks suggesting the big reveal will happen on January 22, 2025, at the Galaxy Unpacked event in San Jose, US. The lineup is expected to feature three models: the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and the flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra. Fans are already buzzing about the Ultra model, which is expected to deliver impressive upgrades in design, performance, and camera technology. Advertisement In India, Samsung has also opened pre-reservations for the series, giving early adopters a chance to secure their devices ahead of the official launch. With so many rumours circulating, lets break down what to expect from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. A sleek new look and improved display The Galaxy S25 Ultra is said to feature a titanium frame with refined curved edges, offering a sleeker and more durable design compared to its predecessor. The display is rumoured to expand slightly to 6.9 inches, retaining the OLED panel seen on the Galaxy S24 Ultra. One standout upgrade could be a new high-brightness mode, allowing the screen to hit a peak brightness of 3000 nits, making it perfect for outdoor viewing. This combination of cutting-edge design and display technology is sure to set the Ultra apart in the flagship market. Next-level camera capabilities Samsung is reportedly taking mobile photography to new heights with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Leaks suggest the device will sport a quad-camera system, led by a 200MP main sensor for ultra-clear shots. A 100MP Space Zoom feature is also rumoured, ideal for capturing distant details. The ultra-wide camera is expected to get a boost to 50MP, while the telephoto lens could offer variable focal lengths, enabling zoom ranges between 4x and 7x. A 10MP lens with 3x optical zoom completes the setup, making this phone a strong contender for the best camera in its class. Under the hood, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is likely to pack Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The device is expected to retain a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, alongside improved GPU efficiency for longer battery life. Qi2 magnetic wireless charging is also expected to add convenience. Samsung opens pre-reservations in India Samsung has launched pre-reservations for its much-anticipated Galaxy S25 series in India. Customers can secure their spot by paying a token amount of Rs 1999 via the Samsung India Store. As a reward, early adopters will receive benefits worth Rs 5000. Pre-reservations are open until 22 January 2024, or until the pre-booking phase begins. Upon successful reservation, buyers receive a VIP pass via email and SMS, which can be redeemed during checkout when the phones become available for purchase. The Rs 1999 reservation fee will be deducted from the final price. If unused within the designated period, the reservation will be cancelled automatically, and the amount refunded. With exclusive perks and no risks, this is an exciting opportunity for fans eager to be among the first to own the next Galaxy flagship. Head to the Samsung India website now to pre-reserve your device. Advertisement The US Department of Treasury announced the sanctions, claiming the Beijing-based Integrity Technology Group provided infrastructure that facilitated cyber exploitation activities. The firm specialises in cybersecurity products like network simulation platforms, honeypot systems etc read more The United States has imposed sanctions on a Chinese technology firm for its alleged involvement with the state-sponsored hacking group Flax Typhoon. The company, Integrity Technology Group, also known as Yongxin Zhicheng Technology Group, is accused of playing a role in cyber intrusions targeting American organisations. The US Department of Treasury announced the sanctions, claiming the Beijing-based company provided infrastructure that facilitated cyber exploitation activities. The firm specialises in cybersecurity products like network simulation platforms, honeypot systems, and protection tools. According to the Treasury, these resources were used in multiple computer intrusions orchestrated by Flax Typhoon. Advertisement The sanctions stem from activities conducted between mid-2022 and late 2023. During this period, the Treasury alleges that Flax Typhoon relied heavily on Integrity Techs infrastructure for its cyber campaigns. The group, known for its stealthy tactics, targeted critical infrastructure, government institutions, and private entities in the United States. By exploiting software vulnerabilities and leveraging stolen credentials, Flax Typhoon reportedly ensured prolonged access to its victims networks. The US government views these actions as a significant threat to national security, prompting the Treasury to act against entities linked to the group. Integrity Tech has been labelled as a key enabler in these operations. China pushes back The sanctions have sparked a sharp response from Beijing. The Chinese government dismissed the accusations as a politically motivated smear campaign. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry criticised Washington for allegedly exaggerating claims of cyberattacks and using the issue to damage Chinas reputation. The spokesperson also stated that China actively opposes cybercrime and hinted at potential countermeasures to defend its interests. Integrity Technology Group has also denied the accusations, calling the sanctions baseless and harmful. In a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange, the company argued that the decision lacked evidence and constituted an illegal action by the US. A broader pattern of cyber threats Flax Typhoon is notorious for its cyber espionage campaigns, primarily aimed at US critical infrastructure. The group employs advanced techniques to evade detection, making it a persistent challenge for cybersecurity experts. The sanctions against Integrity Technology Group signal the US governments efforts to disrupt such activities by targeting entities that allegedly support them. As the US ramps up its response to cyber threats, tensions between the two nations are likely to intensify. While Washington views the sanctions as a necessary step to protect its interests, Beijings strong opposition highlights the geopolitical complexities surrounding cybersecurity in an increasingly interconnected world. A look at three key takeaways from US NSA Jake Sullivans two-day visit to India during which he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and a detailed discussion ahead of President Joe Biden administration handing over the charge to Donald Trump on January 20 read more US NSA Jake Sullivan meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to New Delhi. Source: X | @narendramodi As President Joe Bidens administration prepares to handover the charge to Donald Trump, the United States has announced significant steps to remove long-standing regulations restricting civil nuclear cooperation between Indias top nuclear entities and US companies. US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan described the measures as critical to realising the full potential of the 2008 India-US civil nuclear agreement. Sullivan was in India from January 5-6 for his final overseas trip before leaving office. During his visit, he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indias NSA Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Advertisement In addition to announcing regulatory changes to enhance nuclear collaboration, Sullivan underscored the deepening India-US defence and technology partnership as a stabilising factor in the Indo-Pacific. He also highlighted the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a promising model for growth and integration, contrasting it with Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, Sullivan issued a measured caution, stating the need for both nations to uphold shared democratic values. Respect for rule of law that creates conditions for dynamic growth, respect for pluralism and tolerance that powers innovation, and protection of basic freedoms that unleash the human spirit are essential for the partnership to reach its boundless potential, he stated. 1 - Paperwork to delist Indian nuclear entities underway: Sullivan Speaking about steps to delist Indian nuclear entities to foster stronger civil nuclear cooperation, Sullivan announced that formal paperwork is in progress. This will be an opportunity to turn the page on some of the frictions of past and create opportunities for entities that have been on restrictive lists in the US to come off those lists and enter into deep collaboration with the US, with our private sector, with our scientists and technologists, to move civil nuclear cooperation forward together, a report by The Times of India quoted Sullivan as saying at an event at IIT-Delhi. The US NSA further noted that the Biden administrations decision to ease these restrictions aligns with broader efforts to advance clean energy technologies, support artificial intelligence development, and foster innovation between US and Indian energy companies. According to a press release by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sullivan and Doval discussed ongoing US efforts to finalise the delisting process, which is expected to promote civil nuclear cooperation and strengthen clean energy supply chains. Advertisement Sullivan also updated Indian officials on changes to US missile export control policies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). These updates are aimed at boosting commercial space collaboration between the two countries, according to the MEA. Since the launch of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) in May 2022, significant progress has been made in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, telecommunications, defense, and space, the MEA release noted. Sullivans visit provided an opportunity to review ongoing initiatives under this framework, including those related to defense, cyber, and maritime security. 3 - US NSA warns on dual-use tech transfer, pitches for stronger export controls As a key architect of iCET initiatives, Sullivan expressed concerns about the transfer of dual-use technologies to Russia. As we see more and more new technologies diverted to unfriendly actors, the US and India are going to have to ensure that valuable dual-use technologies dont fall into the wrong hands, he stated. Sullivan stressed the importance of aligning export control systems, securing supply chains, and reviewing trade measures to protect sensitive sectors from overcapacity. That means aligning our export control systems, looking at trade measures to protect our industrial strategies from overcapacity, better securing our supply chains, and reviewing outbound and inbound investment in sensitive sectors, he said. Advertisement Regarding the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), Sullivan acknowledged recent disruptions in West Asia but reaffirmed his commitment to the initiative. Ive talked to the incoming administration about the enormous opportunity that it presents to deliver both growth and integration and a high standard alternative to what Beijing has on offer, Sullivan said. The US NSA noted that he had personally engaged with key leaders and nations to ensure progress on the IMEEC, which he described as an important initiative to promote economic integration and offer a viable alternative to Chinas BRI. Gilgit-Baltistan has been witnessing frequent power outages. Last week, Hamid Hussain, an engineer at the Gilgit Baltistan Water and Power Department said that the problem occurred due to technical reasons read more Residents stage a sit-in protest against power outages as they block the Karakoram Highway in Hunza Valley, in Pakistan's mountainous Gilgit-Baltistan region, on January 6, 2025. AFP The main route connecting Pakistan and China has been blocked by protestors conducting a sit-in protest in the region against rampant power cuts that they claim last for over 20 hours. The blockade has subsequently closed trade between the two countries and jammed traffic on the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in Gilgit-Baltisan. Gilgit-Baltistan, a mountainous and underdeveloped region within the larger Kashmir territory, hosts 127 hydropower and 34 thermal power stations, yet it continues to experience some of the worst power outages in South Asia. Advertisement Why are people protesting? Gilgit-Baltistan has been witnessing frequent power outages. Last week, Hamid Hussain, an engineer at the Gilgit Baltistan Water and Power Department said that the problem occurred due to technical reasons. He said that the region relies on hydropower, the transmission of which gets disrupted during winters due to the freezing of lakes and rivers. Meanwhile, to tackle the issue, the government of Pakistan has announced that it would provide 1.2 MW of electricity from the nearby town of Jaglot under a power-sharing agreement. Protestors, however, have slammed the administration saying that they are spreading misleading information. Spreading fake news Ejaz Gilgiti, a spokesperson for the protest organisers, told Pamir Times, 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 dont know what the real agenda behind this is. 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, he added. Zahoor Ilahi, another member of the core committee organising the protest, said, All rounds of negotiations with the government have failed and we are still facing the worst kind of power crisis. We will not end the protest until our demands are met. Though our demands are to permanently resolve the power crisis, however, if they agree to run thermal generators to minimize power cuts, a consensus will be developed to end the protest, he added. With inputs from agencies Ten years after two terrorists killed 16, including 12 journalists, in an act of jihadist terror at Charlie Hebdos office in Paris, the magazine has released a special issue to mark the 10th anniversary read more A person raises the placard with slogan 'Je suis Charlie' (I am Charlie') in solidarity with the magazine at a demonstration in support of 'Charlie Hebdo' following the terrorist attacks in Paris in 2015. (Photo: AP) The magazine Charlie Hebdo has released a 32-page special issue to mark 10 years of a jihadist rampage that killed 12 of its journalists in Paris. On January 7, 2015, two terrorists of al-Qaeda barged into the office of Charlie Hebdo and went on a shooting rampage that killed 16 people, including 12 journalists, two policepersons, a maintenance worker, and a visitor to the magazines office. The two terrorists were gunned down in a confrontation with security personnel two days later. Advertisement Over next three days, an accomplice, Amedy Coulibaly, killed four more people, including three Jews and a policeperson. While initially the two attacks appeared to be separate, it later emerged the three terrorists had coordinated their attacks on Chalie Hebdo office, the killing of the policeperson, and the murder of Jews. The terrorists had carried out the massacre over their opposition to Charlie Hebdo carrying cartoons of Prophet Mohammed in 2006 that had previously been originally published in Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten. The cartoons were considered blasphemous by Muslims and had generated ire of Muslim fundamentalists across the world, many of whom threatened with violence. The Charlie Hebdo attack was a watershed moment in modern French history as it not just laid bare the threat of Islamist violence but also marked an assault on the fundamental French values of free speech and secularism France is of course home to Voltaire who said I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. The massacre would prove to be the first of many acts of jihadist terror that would shake France in the coming years. 10 years later, Charlie Hebdos message: Indestructible The Charlie Hebdo titled the issue marking the 10th anniversary of the attack as Indestructible. In defiance of the Islamist rage, the 32-page special issue carries 40 cartoons on the theme of Laughing at God. The competition that led to these 40 entries publication asked people to draw your anger against the hold all religions have on your freedoms. One of these entries contains a cartoon of a cartoon asking: Is it okay to draw a picture of a man drawing a picture of a man drawing a picture of Muhammed? Advertisement Increvable ! Notre numero special 7 janvier de 32 pages : Sondage Ifop : les Francais sont pour la caricature Les resultats de notre concours #RireDeDieu Caricatures de Mahomet : recit d'une manipulation L'histoire des miracles de Charlie a l'usage des mecreants pic.twitter.com/wv8ETkKpML Charlie Hebdo (@Charlie_Hebdo_) January 6, 2025 In a statement, Charlie Hebdos publisher Laurent Saurisseau, a cartoonist who survived the attack in 2015 with a bullet in his shoulder, said the desire to laighter will never disappear. The magazine, which has a circulation of around 50,000 copies, has printed around 300,000 copies to sell to mark the anniversary, according to Guardian. The issue also features a survey on the French and the right to caricature, blasphemy and freedom of expression, which found that 76 per cent of French people believed that freedom of expression, including freedom to caricature, was a fundamental right and 62 per cent approved of the right to criticise a religious belief, symbol or dogma in an outrageous manner, according to the newspaper. Two days before the 10th anniversary of the attack, Philippe Val, the former director of Charlie Hebdo, said he had no regrets over publishing the cartoons that triggered the Islamists ire. Advertisement I called a meeting [before publication] of all Charlies staff to ask their opinion and if only one hadnt wanted to, we wouldnt have published But I dont regret it, it had to be done, the fight isnt over, things arent any better today, said Val to La Parisien. Val added that he has been living under protection since that day, for 20 years. What happened in 2015 attacks? On January 7, 2015, two brothers affiliated with al-Qaeda, Said and Cherif Kouachi, stormed into the office of Charlie Hebdo in Paris and killed 16 people, including 12 journalists, a policeman on duty outside the office, a police bodyguard of Editor Stephane Charbonnier who was also killed, a maintenance worker at the building, and a former journalist who was visiting the office at the time of the shooting. At least four more journalists were wounded in addition to an unspecified number of police personnel who responded to the attack. One of the survivors, Simon Fieschi, was paralysed from the injury and was found dead last year. Advertisement After a manhunt lasting two days, the police cornered the Kouachi brothers in a building and they were killed in a gunfight. In related attacks, Amedy Coulibaly killed a policewoman on January 8 and then took shoppers hostages at a Jewish market the next day. The special forces personnel stormed the market and rescued 15 shoppers but Coulibaly killed four of them all Jews. Coulibaly was killed in the exchange of fire. Later, it emerged that Coulibaly was a prison associate of Cherif, one of the two brothers who attacked the Charlie Hebdo office. It also emerged that he was affiliated with the Islamic State. The Charlie Hebdo and the attack on Jews two days later were the first of many acts of jihadist terror that would shake France in coming years. The attacks coincided with the rise of Islamic State in West Asia and influx of hundreds of thousands of migrants from the region into Europe. In November 2015, a series of jihadist attacks killed at least 130 persons in Paris. In December 2016, a truck attack targeting Bastille Day revellers killed 86 people. The attack was carried by Islamic State. Overall, around 300 people have been killed in Islamist violence in France over the last decade. In 2020, a radical Islamist beheaded a teacher, Samuel Paty, near Paris in opposition to the showing of cartoons of Prophet Muhammed in a classroom discussion on free speech. The 18-year-old Islamist was shot dead by the police in a confrontation. Even though there was immense outpour of support for Charlie Hebdo in the aftermath of the attack in 2015, with national and world leaders converging in Paris in solidarity, the support has wavered over the years as leftist politicians have broken ranks with Frances free speech and secular principles to accuse magazines like Charlie Hebdo of Islamophobia to woo Muslim voters, particularly the conservative sections with roots in the conservative bastion of West and Central Asia and North Africa. Syrians carrying colourful balloons and flowers greeted passengers who arrived on the first Qatari commercial flight in nearly 13 years, which landed at around 1:00 pm read more Travellers arrive at the Damascus International Airport on January 7, 2025. Syria's main airport in Damascus will resume international flights starting January 7 after such commercial trips were halted following last month's ousting of president Bashar al-Assad. AFP International flights resumed at Syrias main airport in Damascus on Tuesday for the first time since Islamist-led forces toppled president Bashar al-Assad last month. There was an air of excitement at the terminal, AFP journalists saw, with arriving passengers chanting and cheering, some draped in the countrys three-star independence flag. Syrians carrying colourful balloons and flowers greeted passengers who arrived on the first Qatari commercial flight in nearly 13 years, which landed at around 1:00 pm (10:00 GMT). Some of the passengers knelt down to kiss the ground. Im waiting for my brother, who I havent seen in 17 years. He couldnt return because of the regime, Reem Taghleb, 37, told AFP. Advertisement He took the first opportunity to return to Syria on the first Qatari plane, she added, with emotion in her voice. Were so happy for his return, and for our countrys freedom. New beginning A Syrian Airlines plane bound for Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates took off at around 11:45 am, marking the first international commercial flight from the airport since December 8, AFP correspondents said. The three-star flag, long associated with opposition to Assad and which the new authorities have adopted, was painted on the plane. Today marks a new beginning, Damascus airport director Anis Fallouh told AFP. On Tuesday, Qatar Airways resumed flights to Damascus after a nearly 13-year hiatus, with three weekly flights scheduled. Fallouh confirmed that the first incoming flight is a Qatar Airways plane. International aid planes and foreign diplomatic delegations had already been landing in Syria, and domestic flights had also resumed. I was afraid that the airport would stay closed. My visa was about to expire, but now I am very happy, Amal Jeroudi, a 45-year-old Syrian, told AFP as she awaited her flight to Dubai where she was meeting her relatives. She said airport employees during Assads rule were condescending, but today they are very nice and welcomed us with a smile. Support and solidarity State news agency SANA reported that the first Syrian plane after liberation took off for Sharjah with 145 Syrian passengers onboard. Ashhad al-Salibi, who heads the General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport, told reporters that a Sham Wings flight was due to fly to Arbil in Iraq later in the day. Advertisement Jordans state-run Petra news agency, citing Civil Aviation official Haitham Misto, said a Royal Jordanian test flight had also departed on Tuesday for Damascus. The flight is a message of support and solidarity that also aims to assess the technical condition of Damascus International Airport, Misto said. A Qatari official told AFP last month that Doha had offered the new Syrian authorities help in resuming operations at Damascus airport. On December 18, the first flight since Islamist-led rebels ousted Assad 10 days earlier took off from Damascus airport bound for Syrias second city Aleppo in the north, according to AFP journalists. Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide widely used in agriculture and household pest control. It effectively targets a broad spectrum of pests, including ants, cockroaches, and various agricultural insects read more Chinas commerce ministry on Tuesday announced that it will anti-dumping measures on India for the imports of cypermethrin from January 8. The move came after a preliminary investigation on anti-dumping suggested that the imports of cypermethrin were causing substantial damage to the domestic industry. Importers are obligated to make deposits with Chinese customs when importing products under investigation, based on dumping margins ranging from 50 to 170 per cent, according to a statement by Chinas Ministry of Commerce. Advertisement What is cypermethrin? Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide widely used in agriculture and household pest control. It effectively targets a broad spectrum of pests, including ants, cockroaches, and various agricultural insects. Cypermethrin acts as a neurotoxin in insects, disrupting their nervous system upon contact or ingestion. Chinas other anti-dumping measures Beijing is not new to imposing anti-dumping measures. Last year, China launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of pork products from the European Union. The probe is in response to an application submitted on behalf of domestic producers, Beijing said and comes in the face of mounting trade tensions between China and the EU. The Ministry of Commerce has opened an anti-dumping investigation into imports of relevant pork and pig by-products originating from the European Union, the ministry said in a statement. China launched an anti-dumping investigation in January into brandy imported from the EU in a move seen as targeting France, which had pushed for the commissions probe. It also in May launched an anti-dumping investigation into imports of a key engineering chemical from the European Union, the United States, Taiwan and Japan. With inputs from agencies Farage also distanced himself from Musks support for Tommy Robinson, responding to the criticism by saying, Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles. read more Nigel Farage has expressed his desire to mend any broken fences with Elon Musk after the billionaire and ally of Donald Trump called for his removal as leader of Reform UK. Farages remarks came after he distanced himself from Musks endorsement of jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, former leader of the English Defence League. Speaking on LBC, Farage said that he plans to meet Musk during an upcoming trip to the US for Donald Trumps presidential inauguration on January 20. Advertisement Of course, I want his support. Of course, I will talk to him in America in a few days time, Farage said. I have no desire to go to war with Elon Musk Im a huge admirer of himI think hes a heroic figure. Musk had criticised Farage over the weekend, claiming that the Reform Party needed new leadership and stating, Farage doesnt have what it takes. The comments came shortly after Farage described Musk as a friend who made Reform look cool. Despite their recent tensions, Farage confirmed ongoing negotiations with Musk regarding potential donations to Reform UK to strengthen its challenge against the dominant Labour and Conservative parties. The fallout follows Musks recent endorsement of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right party labeled extremist by German security services, ahead of national elections in February. Founded in 2021, Reform U.K. is the latest in a string of small hard-right parties led by Farage that have had limited electoral success, but an outsized influence on British politics. Farages opposition to the European Union helped push the country toward voting in 2016 to leave the bloc, a seismic political and economic break with the U.K.s nearest neighbors. Advertisement Reform U.K. won just five of the 650 seats in the House of Commons in Julys election, but came second in dozens more and secured 14% of the vote. Now it is pushing for fast growth, trying to professionalize its previously ramshackle organisation and holding gatherings around the U.K. to recruit new members. Farage, a strong communicator who has embraced TikTok and other platforms, aims to emulate Trumps success in using the power of personality and social media to reach the bro vote young men who are traditionally less likely to turn out at election time. The Israeli Defence Ministry on Tuesday signed two significant deals, valued at approximately $275 million, with Elbit Systems, aimed at supplying the military with thousands of heavy bombs and establishing a new facility for manufacturing raw materials, according to a report read more Israeli Air Force pilots prepare for airstrikes against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, on December 26, 2024. Image Courtesy: Israel Defense Forces The Israeli Defence Ministry on Tuesday signed two significant deals with Elbit Systems, aimed at supplying the military with thousands of heavy bombs and establishing a new facility for manufacturing raw materials. According to a Times of Israel report, the agreements, valued at approximately $275 million, are expected to reduce Israels reliance on the US, which in late spring held up a shipment of heavy bombs. These deals are crucial for enhancing the IDFs operational endurance and force build-up capabilities and reflect a central lesson learned from the war, reported Times of Israel, citing the defence ministry. Advertisement Under the first agreement, Elbit will provide thousands of heavy air munitions for the Israeli Air Force. Since the war started, the Israeli Air Force has conducted over 83,000 airstrikes, according to the report, citing military. Under the second agreement, Elbit will establish a national raw materials plant to produce materials that were primarily imported from abroad prior to the war. The new facility will feature advanced production lines for energetic materials that Israels defense industry uses, the Times of Israel quoted the ministry as saying, adding that the project is expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing independence and reduce reliance on imported raw materials. Defence Ministry Director General Eyal Zamir said the deals are laying the foundations for expanding manufacturing independence in two critical areas for the IDFs operational sustainability: domestic production of heavy air munitions and establishing a national raw materials plant. Both agreements will ensure sovereign capability in producing bombs and munitions of all types, he was quoted as saying by the ministry. We initiated this historic move before the war but accelerated it during it. Under both agreements, initial capabilities will soon gradually expand until we achieve full independence in both areas, Zamir added. This is a central lesson from the war that will enable the IDF to continue operating powerfully in all theaters, he said. According to the report, the defence ministry said in August that the US has supplied Israel with over 50,000 tons of armaments and military equipment since the onset of the war. Advertisement The aggression against Israel across the Middle East, described as a seven-front war, began with the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, when thousands of terrorists invaded from the Gaza Strip, resulting in around 1,200 deaths, mostly among civilians, and the kidnapping of 251 individuals. In Gaza, intense fighting continues in the north, with Hamas demonstrating its capability to launch rockets at Israel even after nearly 15 months of conflict. In Lebanon, a fragile ceasefire is in place as Israeli forces continue to uncover Hezbollah infrastructure in the southern region. Over the past month, Houthi ballistic missiles from Yemen have repeatedly forced millions of Israelis to seek shelter during the night. Advertisement With inputs from agencies A small Italian village Belcastro, located in the southern region of Calabria one of Italys poorest areas has banned its residents from falling seriously ill, according to a report read more Belcastro, in southern Italy, is home to around 1,200 people. Image Courtesy: Facebook A small Italian village Belcastro, located in the southern region of Calabria one of Italys poorest areas has banned its residents from falling seriously ill, according to a BBC report. People living in Belcastro are ordered to avoid contracting any illness that may require emergency medical assistance, BBC quoted a decree from local Mayor Antonio Torchia as saying. Torchia said the decision was obviously a humorous provocation, yet it has proven to be more impactful than the urgent notifications he had sent to regional authorities regarding the deficiencies in the local healthcare system. Advertisement About half of Belcastros 1,200 residents are over 65, and the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department is more than 45 km (28 miles) away, reported BBC, citing the mayor. The mayor said that access to the A&E is limited to a road with a speed limit of 30 km/h (18 mph). The villages on-call doctor is available only sporadically and does not provide coverage on weekends, holidays, or after hours. According to the report, Torchia expressed on Italian TV that its difficult to feel safe knowing that getting timely assistance means relying solely on reaching the A&E in time, adding that the roads themselves pose more of a risk than any illness. The decree also instructs residents to avoid harmful behaviors and domestic accidents, refrain from leaving home frequently, limit travel and sports, and prioritise rest, added the report. It, however, remains unclear how these rules will be enforced. Calabria, located at the tip of Italys boot, is one of the countrys poorest regions, suffering from political mismanagement and mafia influence that have devastated its healthcare system. Under central government oversight for nearly 15 years, local hospitals face overwhelming debt, leading to a severe shortage of medical staff and beds, as well as long waiting lists. Since 2009, eighteen hospitals have closed, forcing nearly half of Calabrias two million residents to seek medical care elsewhere, reported BBC. Advertisement In 2022, it was announced that Cuba would send 497 doctors to the Italian region over three years to work in various medical facilities. Regional governor Roberto Occhiuto told BBC that last year these doctors had saved Calabrias hospitals. Belcastro residents told local media that Mayor Torchia had done the right thing in shining a light on the issue, and that the decision would shake consciences. He has used a provocative decree to attract attention on a serious problem, BBC quoted a man as saying. With inputs from agencies Malaysia and Singapore have announced a landmark agreement for a special economic zone (SEZ) in Johor, Malaysia, aimed at boosting investment and enhancing the movement of goods and people between the two countries. read more Malaysia and Singapore announced on Tuesday an agreement on a special economic zone in the southern Malaysian state of Johor, aiming to support investment and free up movement of goods and people between the countries. The Southeast Asian neighbours first agreed in principle to jointly develop the economic zone a year ago. Tuesdays agreement was announced during a visit to Malaysia by Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and senior cabinet ministers. Its an important project we can both be more competitive, enhance our value proposition, and jointly attract more investments to our shores, Wong told a joint press conference with Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim. Advertisement When negotiating the agreement, both sides have actively engaged stakeholders to ensure that the SEZ has the conditions to help our businesses grow together for the longer term." Anwar said the SEZ was unique initiative as it was rare for two countries to team up on a single project. The two countries are aiming to attract high-value investments into Johor in sectors ranging from manufacturing and logistics to tourism and energy transition, Malaysias Economic Minister Rafizi Ramli told reporters. They are targeting 50 projects at the economic zone within the first five years of its inception, and the creation of 20,000 skilled jobs. Malaysia will set up and manage an infrastructure fund to support companies looking to set up there, while Singapore will create its own fund to facilitate investments and support Singaporean companies operating in Johor, Rafizi said. Thousands of Malaysians commute every day to small but wealthy Singapore for work and study, causing frequent traffic congestion on the causeway between the countries, one of the worlds busiest border crossings. The two leaders also invited proposals for high-speed rail between the two countries, which Anwar said should be led by the private sector, with limited government involvement. Advertisement Elon Musk mocked Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation on January 6, saying, 2025 is looking good. The remark came just days ahead of President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration on January 20. read more Billionaire entrepreneur and Tesla CEO Elon Musk hailed the political setting for the New Year, with a praise for US President-elect Donald Trump as he mocked Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation on Monday (January 6), and also took a jibe at the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Musk linked these political events to the post described as the comeback of masculinity on the worlds political stage. 2025 is looking promising, Musk wrote on X, sharing a post. Tesla CEOs shared post said, Trump won. Trudeau resigned. Keir Starmer was exposed. Nayib Bukele reduced crime by 95% in El Salvador. Javier Milei achieved the first surplus in Argentina since 2008. Masculinity is making a comeback. Great men are rising. And just in time. Were going to need them." Advertisement Musks comment came just days before his Donald Trumps second inauguration on January 20. Reactions from netizens One user replied, Hard times lead to Great Men!!!" Another commented, A great way to start the year. Lets bring our country back to the values that made it great, safe, and strong. Then we can help other countries, like Britain, do the same." Ah yes, 2025: the year the world hit reset and finally started heading in the right direction, wrote another user. Trudeau Steps down as Canadian PM After serving as the prime minister for nine years, Justin Trudeau said on Monday that he was stepping down, believing the country deserves a real choice in the next election." Trudeaus resignation came after intense pressure from fellow members of his Liberal Party, who urged him to step down amid declining approval ratings among Canadians. Trudeau said while giving his address during the announcement of his resignation, Every morning Ive woken up as prime minister, Ive been inspired by the resilience, generosity, and determination of Canadians. It has been the driving force of every day Ive had the privilege of serving in this office." Elon Musk needles Starmer Musk accused Starmer of being complicit in the rape of Britain in crimes allegedly committed by the so-called Pakistani grooming gangs. The grooming gangs scandal involves allegations of child sexual abuse in the UK. Starmer was head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2008 to 2013, where he introduced guidelines for handling child sexual abuse (CSA) cases. Musk, the worlds richest man, posted on X, Starmer was complicit in the rape of Britain when he was head of the CPS for 6 years. He further called for Starmer to be removed and face charges for his role in what Musk described as the worst mass crime in Britains history. Starmer dismissed Musks allegation while defending his actions as a prosecutor. Though he did not directly address Musk, Starmer denied claims that he failed to prosecute gangs involved in the sexual abuse of girls. (With inputs from agencies) Hours after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned, President-elect Donald Trump renewed his offer of making Canada the 51st state of the US. Read more to know what he has said more this time read more Donald Trump, who will be formally inaugurated as the President of the United States on January 20, renewed his offer to make Canada the 51st state of America, moments after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation. As per Trump, there are several Canadians who love being a part of the US, and if the two countries merge, it will be a great nation. On Monday, 53-year-old Trudeau resigned after persistent pressure from his ruling Liberal Party amid his growing unpopularity. He would, however, remain in office until his party elects a new leader, leaving him as a caretaker prime minister till the elections later this year. Advertisement Meanwhile, Canada is scheduled to go to polls in October this year, but there is a possibility that Trudeau would call for early election. Trump spells out how Canadas merger with US will be beneficial In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said, 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 US, 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!!! However, it is not for the first time the US-President elect mentioned that Canada should be the 51st state of the US. Following his win in the November 5, 2024 presidential election, Trump has, at least on two previous occasions, made a similar call. Also Read: Trudeau resigns as Canadas PM after 9 years: Heres what he said Trump has never had a good relationship with Trudeau. Recently, the 78-year-old leader also mocked Trudeau as Governor of the Great State of Canada. Not just Canada, Trump eyes Greenland In another post Trump claimed of unifying Greenland with the US saying, 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. Trump claimed that he has been hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA and that his son Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. Advertisement Two weeks ago Trump made his desire for the US to take control of the autonomous Danish territory. The US President-elect reignited controversy in December when he said ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity for US national security. During his first term as President, Trump had expressed an interest in buying the Arctic island. He was rebuffed by Greenlands leaders on both occasions. We are not for sale and we will not be for sale, Greenlands Prime Minister, Mute Egede, said in December. Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland, he further said. As per reports in the US media, Trump Jr, during his one-day private visit to Greenland, plans to record video footage for a podcast. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. Biden and first lady Jill Biden made their first stop in the city at a memorial that sprung up on Bourbon Street, where an Army veteran drove a truck into revellers, killing 14 and injuring 30 more read more President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden arrive to participate in an interfaith prayer service for the victims of the deadly New Years truck attack, at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. AP President Joe Biden met with grieving families, attended a prayer service and stopped at a makeshift memorial in New Orleans on Monday in honor of the victims of last weeks deadly New Years attack in the citys historic French Quarter. Biden and first lady Jill Biden made their first stop in the city at a memorial that sprung up on Bourbon Street, where an Army veteran drove a truck into revellers, killing 14 and injuring 30 more. Advertisement Flowers and messages had been left at the base of more than 14 crosses erected on the sidewalk. After Jill Biden placed white flowers at the memorial, she and the president stood in silence and bowed their heads. Joe Biden crossed himself, and the couple headed to the historic St. Louis Cathedral nearby. The president and first lady met privately with the families of those killed, survivors and local law enforcement. Afterward, they attended an interfaith prayer service, where a rendition of Amazing Grace was performed with a New Orleans jazz spin. Biden has made dozens of visits to sites of violence, natural disaster and other calamities during his four years in office. With two weeks left in office, Mondays visit to New Orleans could be his last such trip. I think what youre going to see this president do today is show up for the community, be there for the community in the hardest time, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One on the way to Louisiana. She added, He believes this is also an important part of the job that he believes he needs to do as president. Advertisement Its a grim task that presidents perform, though not every leader has embraced the role with such intimacy as the 82-year-old Biden, who has experienced a lot of personal tragedy in his own life. His first wife and baby daughter died in a car accident in the early 1970s, and his elder son, Beau, died of cancer in 2015. Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, Biden told reporters Sunday in a preview of his visit. My message is going to be personal if I get to get them alone. Biden often takes the opportunity at such bleak occasions to speak behind closed doors with the families, offer up his personal phone number in case people want to talk later on and talk about grief in stark, personal terms. Advertisement The Democratic president will continue on to California following his stop in New Orleans. With a snowstorm hitting the Washington region on Monday, Bidens trip began with Air Force One starting its takeoff from inside a large hangar instead of on the tarmac as thick snow covered the ground at Joint Base Andrews and snowplows worked to clear the runway. In New Orleans on Jan. 1, the driver plowed into a crowd on Bourbon Street. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who steered his speeding truck around a barricade and plowed into the crowd, later was fatally shot in a firefight with police. Jabbar, an American citizen from Texas, had posted five videos on his Facebook account in the hours before the attack in which he proclaimed his support for the Islamic State militant group and previewed the violence that he would soon unleash in the French Quarter. Advertisement Biden on Sunday pushed back against conspiracy theories surrounding the attack, and he urged New Orleans residents to ignore them. I spent literally 17, 18 hours with the intelligence community from the time this happened to establish exactly what happened, to establish beyond any reasonable doubt that New Orleans was the act of a single man who acted alone, he said. All this talk about conspiracies with other people, theres not evidence of that zero. The youngest victim was 18 years old, and the oldest was 63. Most victims were in their 20s. They came from Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, New Jersey and Great Britain. Advertisement Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy, a Republican, was asked on Fox News Sunday what the city was hoping for from Bidens visit. How can we not feel for both the families of those who die but also those whove been injured in their families? he asked. The best thing that the city, the state, and the federal government can do is do their best to make sure that this does not happen again. And what we can do as a people is to make sure that we dont live our lives in fear or in terror but live our lives bravely and with liberty, and then support those families however they need support. Jean-Pierre said Monday that Biden was directing additional resources to help New Orleans with major upcoming events, including Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl, with both events being assigned the highest level of federal support for security measures. Syrian rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham took power from Assad on Dec. 8 in a lightning offensive and have since installed an interim government that has promised a 400% salary increase for public sector workers. read more A drone view shows vehicles on the street in Damascus, after Syrian rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad, on Tuesday. Reuters Qatar is set to play a key role in financing a massive boost in public sector wages pledged by Syrias new Islamist government, a US official and a senior diplomat told Reuters. The support for the new Syrian administration has been made possible by a US sanctions exemption issued by Washington on Monday, allowing for transactions with governing institutions in Syria for six months. The development comes a month after Bashar al-Assads regime was overthrown. Advertisement An Arab official said talks on Qatar funding Syrian government salaries were underway and nothing had been finalised yet, adding that other countries including Saudi Arabia may join in the effort. A Saudi official told Reuters on Tuesday that the kingdom was committed to working with regional and international partners to help support Syria and that its current support is focused on humanitarian aid including food, shelter, and medical supplies. Qatar, a longtime backer of the Syrian armed uprising against Assad, had been lobbying Washington heavily to issue the sanctions exemption so it could provide funding in an official manner, the U.S. official and the diplomat said. Qatar, a tiny but wealthy Gulf state that plays an outsized role in international diplomacy, has moved swiftly over the last month to establish links with the new Syrian government, sending senior officials to Damascus and re-opening its embassy. On Tuesday, Qatar Airways resumed regular flights between Doha and Damascus. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani visited Riyadh on his first official trip abroad last week, and has since made stops in the UAE, Qatar and Jordan. On Sunday, Syrias finance minister said that the government will hike salaries for many public sector employees by 400% next month after completing an administrative restructuring of ministries to boost efficiency and accountability. Advertisement The increase, estimated to cost 1.65 trillion Syrian pounds, or about $127 million at current rates, will be financed by existing state resources plus a combination of regional aid, new investments, and efforts to unfreeze Syrian assets held abroad. Salaries for Syrias public sector workers under the regime of toppled President Bashar al-Assad were approximately $25 per month, placing them below the poverty line, alongside much of the countrys population, according to Abazeed. The planned salary increase would follow a thorough evaluation of up to 1.3 million registered public sector employees to eliminate fictitious workers from the payroll. The adjustment will target those with the relevant expertise, academic qualifications, and skills necessary for the countrys reconstruction efforts. Advertisement Syrias state treasury is facing liquidity challenges emerging from a war. The majority of money available in the central bank is Syrian currency, which has lost much of its value. However, the new government was promised assistance from regional and Arab countries, the minister said. Syrias caretaker government is also discussing exempting taxpayers, as much as possible, from penalties and interest and working on overhauling the tax system within the next three months to achieve tax justice for all taxpayers, with a first draft expected within four months. With inputs from agencies. Kurakhove had a pre-conflict population of around 18,000 people. It is home to a power station, is located near a reservoir and has a major lithium deposit read more Kyivs army said on Tuesday there was still active fighting in Kurakhove, a strategic town in Ukraines east that Russia said it had seized the previous day. Moscow hailed the capture of the important logistics hub, saying it would enable Russian forces to seize the rest of the eastern Donetsk region at an accelerated pace. But the Ukrainian army on Tuesday reported active fighting in the urban area of Kurakhove and said it was repelling Russian attacks near the town. In the Kurakhove sector, the defence forces are countering the enemys attempts to use their superiority in manpower and develop an offensive, Ukraines Khortytsia army unit said on social media. Advertisement The unit is fighting in that area of the front. The enemy actively conducted assault operations in the urban area of Kurakhove, it said, adding: Measures to localise and destroy enemy assault groups that have infiltrated our combat formations are underway. Kurakhove had a pre-conflict population of around 18,000 people. It is home to a power station, is located near a reservoir and has a major lithium deposit. Ukraines General Staff said its forces had repelled 26 attacks in the area, including near Kurakhove. Russias troops have been advancing in the eastern Donetsk region that Moscow claimed to have annexed in 2022 for months. Both sides are trying to secure fresh territory ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump returning to office later this month. The incoming US Republican has vowed to bring swift peace to the nearly three-year war but has not outlined a concrete plan. Ukraines military also said on Tuesday it had killed 13 North Korean soldiers fighting in Russias western Kursk region. Russia said Ukraine launched a fresh counter-attack there over the weekend, five months after it first seized dozens of border settlements in a shock cross-border offensive. Pyongyang has sent more than 10,000 troops to support Russias army, according to Western, South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence. Advertisement Ukraines Special Operations forces said five North Koreans had been killed in a gun battle and eight in drone attacks. Rescuers battle in freezing temperatures to save people affected after a powerful earthquake of 7.1 magnitude struck near the Nepal-Tibet border on Tuesday morning read more Houses completely damaged in Shigatse, southwestern China's Tibet region, after an earthquake hit the area. AFP | Handout. At least 95 people were killed, over 130 others were injured after a powerful earthquake of 7.1 magnitude struck near the Nepal-Tibet border around 6:35 am on Tuesday. Chinas news agency Xinhua on Tuesday said that a total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 pm (local time), after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Tingri County in the city of Xigaze in southwest Chinas Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 am on January 7. Advertisement More than a thousand houses have been damaged, Xinhua report said. According to a report by Chinas state broadcaster CCTV, the casualties were reported in Chinas remote Tibet region where many buildings were also collapsed. The earthquake was so severe that the tremors shook Nepals capital Kathmandu and several places in India including Delhi-NCR, Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam. The US Geological Survey (USGS) said that the epicenter of the quake was in Chinas Tibet region, about 93 km northeast of Lobuche, which is situated near the Khumbu Glacier in Nepal and lies around 150 kilometres east of Kathmandu. Also, it is close to the Everest Base Camp. Chinas earthquake monitoring agency - China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) - recorded the quakes magnitude as 6.8, with the epicentral region at an altitude of about 4,200 metres (13,800 feet). Tingri county and its surrounding areas experienced very strong tremors, and many buildings near the epicenter have collapsed, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Advertisement There were also reports of multiple aftershocks, the largest measuring 4.4 in magnitude. The USGS said that there have been 10 earthquakes of at least magnitude 6 in the area where Tuesdays quake hit over the past century. Also Read: Earthquake of 7.1 magnitude hits Nepal, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam Rescue efforts on amid freezing temperatures Footages surfacing on channels and social media showed rescue workers wading through rubble strewn across the ruins in the aftermath of the earthquake, while some gave locals thick blankets to keep warm in subzero temperatures. According to China Meteorological Administration, temperatures in Tingri are around minus 8 degrees Celsius and will drop to minus 18 by this evening. The high-altitude county in the Tibet region is home to around 62,000 people and situated on the Chinese side of Mount Everest. Advertisement As per Xinhua report, local authorities are reaching out to various townships in the county to assess the impact of the quake. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the all-out search and rescue efforts, minimizing casualties to the greatest extent possible, properly resettling affected residents, and ensuring their safety and warmth through the winter. Nepal earthquake In Nepals capital, Kathmandu, the earthquake sent residents running out of their homes after they woke up by the tremor. #Nepal: Kathmandu Valley felt #earthquake tremors at 6:50 am. The earthquake measured 7.1 on the Richter scale and hit 93 km northeast of Lobuche in Nepal. According to Lok Bijay Adhikari, a senior Divisional Seismologist at the Department of Minerals and Geology in Nepal, the pic.twitter.com/7vg6676QCK All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) January 7, 2025 Advertisement It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake, a report by AFP quoted Jagat Prasad Bhusal, a government official in Nepals Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest, as saying. The quake also jolted Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Meanwhile, Nepal is vulnerable to earthquakes as it lies on a major geological faultline where the Indian tectonic plate pushes up into the Eurasian plate, forming the Himalayas, and earthquakes are a regular occurrence. Advertisement Nearly 9,000 people died and more than 22,000 were injured in 2015, when a 7.8-magnitude quake struck Nepal, destroying more than half a million homes. With inputs from agencies. As tens of thousands disappeared over more than a decade, a blanket of fear kept the Syrian population silent. People rarely told anyone that a loved one had vanished for fear they too could be reported to security agencies. Now, everyone is talking read more A member of the security forces for the new interim Syrian government inspects a cell of the Palestine Branch detention facility operated during Bashar Assad's regime, in Damascus, Syria. AP Handcuffed and squatting on the floor, Abdullah Zahra saw smoke rising from his cellmates flesh as his torturers gave him electric shocks. Then it was Zahras turn. They hanged the 20-year-old university student from his wrists until his toes barely touched the floor and electrocuted and beat him for two hours. They made his father watch and taunted him about his sons torment. That was 2012, and the entire security apparatus of Syrias then-President Bashar Assad was deployed to crush the protests that had arisen against his rule. Advertisement With Assads fall a month ago, the machinery of death that he ran is starting to come out into the open. It was systematic and well-organized, growing to more than 100 detention facilities where torture, brutality, sexual violence and mass executions were rampant, according to activists, rights group and former prisoners. Security agents spared no one, not even Assads own soldiers. Young men and women were detained for simply living in districts where protests were held. As tens of thousands disappeared over more than a decade, a blanket of fear kept the Syrian population silent. People rarely told anyone that a loved one had vanished for fear they too could be reported to security agencies. Now, everyone is talking. The insurgents who swept Assad out of power opened detention facilities, releasing prisoners and allowing the public to bear witness. Crowds swarmed, searching for answers, bodies of their loved ones, and ways to heal. The Associated Press visited seven of these facilities in Damascus and spoke to nine former detainees, some released on Dec. 8, the day Assad was ousted. Some details of the accounts by those who spoke to the AP could not be independently confirmed, but they matched past reports by former detainees to human rights groups. Days after Assads fall, Zahra now 33 came to visit Branch 215, a detention facility run by military intelligence in Damascus where he was held for two months. In an underground dungeon, he stepped into the windowless, 4-by-4-meter (yard) cell where he says he was held with 100 other inmates. Advertisement Each man was allowed a floor tile to squat on, Zahra said. When ventilators werent running either intentionally or because of a power failure some suffocated. Men went mad; torture wounds festered. When a cellmate died, they stowed his body next to the cells toilet until jailers came to collect corpses, Zahra said. Death was the least bad thing, he said. We reached a place where death was easier than staying here for one minute. Assads system of repression grew as civil war raged Zahra was arrested along with his father after security agents killed one of his brothers, a well-known anti-Assad graffiti artist. After they were released, Zahra fled to opposition-held areas. Within a few months, security agents returned and dragged off 13 of his male relatives, including a younger brother and, again, his father. Advertisement They were brought to Branch 215. All were tortured and killed. Zahra later recognized their bodies among photos leaked by a defector that showed the corpses of thousands killed while in detention. Their bodies were never recovered, and how and when they died is unknown. Rights groups estimate at least 150,000 people went missing after anti-government protests began in 2011, most vanishing into Assads prison network. Many of them were killed, either in mass executions or from torture and prison conditions. The exact number remains unknown. Even before the uprising, Assad had ruled with an iron fist. But as peaceful protests turned into a full-fledged civil war that would last 14 years, Assad rapidly expanded his system of repression. Advertisement New detention facilities sprung up in security compounds, military airports and under buildings all run by military, security and intelligence agencies. Touring the site of his torture and detention, Zahra hoped to find some sign of his lost relatives. But there was nothing. At home, his aunt, Rajaa Zahra, saw the pictures of her killed children for the first time. She had refused to look at the leaked photos before. She lost three of her six sons in Branch 215 and a fourth was killed at a protest. Her brother, she said, had three sons, now he has only one. They were hoping to finish off all the young men of the country. Advertisement Syrians were tortured with the tire and magic carpet The Assad regimes tortures had names. One was called the magic carpet, where a detainee was strapped to a hinged wooden plank that bends in half, folding his head to his feet, which are then beaten. Abdul-Karim Hajeko said he endured this five times. His torturers stomped on his back during interrogations at the Criminal Security branch, and his vertebrae are still broken. My screams would go to heaven. Once a doctor came down from the fourth floor (to the ground floor) because of my screams, he said. He was also put in the tire. His legs were bent inside a car tire as interrogators beat his back and feet with a plastic baton. When they were done, he said, a guard ordered him to kiss the tire and thank it for teaching him how to behave. Hajeko was later taken to the notorious Saydnaya Prison, where he was held for six years. Many prisoners said the tire was inflicted for rule violations like making noise, raising ones head in front of guards, or praying or for no reason at all. Mahmoud Abdulbaki, a non-commissioned air force officer who defected from service, was put in the tire during detention at a military police facility. They forced him to count the lashes up to 200 and if he made a mistake, the torturer would start over. Peoples hearts stopped following a beating, the 37-year-old said. He was later held at Saydnaya, where he said guards would terrorize inmates by rolling a tire down the corridor lined with cells and beat on the bars with their batons. Wherever it stopped, the entire cell would be subjected to the tire. Altogether, Abdulbaki spent nearly six years in prison over different periods. He was among those freed on the day Assad fled Syria. Saleh Turki Yahia said a cellmate died nearly every day during the seven months in 2012 he was held at the Palestine Branch, a detention facility run by the General Intelligence Agency. He recounted how one man bled in the cell for days after returning from a torture session where interrogators rammed a pipe into him. When the inmates tried to move him, all his fluids poured out from his backside. The wound opened from the back, and he died, he said. Yahya said he was given electric shocks, hanged from his wrists, beaten on his feet. He lost half his body weight and nearly tore his own skin scratching from scabies. They broke us, he said, breaking into tears. Look at Syria, it is all old men A whole generation is destroyed. But with Assad gone, he was back visiting the Palestine Branch. I came to express myself. I want to tell. The mounting evidence will be used in trials Torture continued up to the end of Assads rule. Rasha Barakat, 34, said she and her sister were detained in March from their homes in Saqba, a town outside Damascus. Inside a security branch, she was led past her husband, who had been arrested hours earlier and was being interrogated. He was kneeling on the floor, his face green, she said. It was her last brief glimpse of him: He died in custody. During her own hours-long interrogation, she said, security agents threatened to bring in her sons, 5- and 7-years-old, if she didnt confess. She was beaten. Female security agents stripped her and poured cold water on her, leaving her shivering naked for two hours. She spent eight days in isolation, hearing beatings nearby. Eventually she was taken to Adra, Damascus central prison, tried and sentenced to five years for supporting rebel groups, charges she said were made up. There she stayed until insurgents broke into Adra in December and told her she was free. An estimated 30,000 prisoners were released as fighters opened up prisons during their march to Damascus. Barakat said she is happy to see her kids again. But I am destroyed psychologically Something is missing. It is hard to keep going. Now comes the monumental task of accounting for the missing and compiling evidence that could one day be used to prosecute Assads officials, whether by Syrian or international courts. Hundreds of thousands of documents remain scattered through the former detention facilities, many labeled classified, in storage rooms commonly underground. Some seen by the AP included transcripts of phone conversations, even between military officers; intelligence files on activists; and a list of hundreds of prisoners killed in detention. Shadi Haroun, who spent 10 years imprisoned, has been charting Assads prison structure and documenting former detainees experiences from exile in Turkey. After Assads fall, he rushed back to Syria and toured detention sites. The documents, he said, show the bureaucracy behind the killings. They know what they are doing, it is organized. Civil defense workers are tracking down mass graves where tens of thousands are believed to be buried. At least 10 have been identified around Damascus, mostly from residents reports, and five others elsewhere around the country. Authorities say they are not ready to open them. A U.N. body known as the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism has offered to help Syrias new interim administration in collecting, organizing and analyzing all the material. Since 2011, it has been compiling evidence and supporting investigations in over 200 criminal cases against figures in Assads government. Robert Petit, director of the U.N. body, said the task is so enormous, no one entity can do it alone. The priority would be to identify the architects of the brutality. Many want answers now. Officials cannot just declare that the missing are presumed dead, said Wafaa Mustafa, a Syrian journalist, whose father was detained and killed 12 years ago. No one gets to tell the families what happened without evidence, without search, without work. TikTok has been manipulating content that it shows to users to brainwash them into developing a favourable perception of China, according to peer-reviewed research by Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) at Rutgers University read more China's flags are seen near a TikTok logo in this illustration picture taken July 16, 2020. (Photo: Reuters) The social media platform TikTok has gone dark in the United States. Hours before a ban on TikTok would have come into effect on Sunday, users were informed on Saturday that the platform was no longer available. While critics of the ban have slammed it as a violation of free speech rights, the supporters have flagged national security risks of the platform. There is now evidence that TikTok is a tool of the Communist Party of China (CPC) to peddle propaganda and indoctrinate people across the world. Peer-reviewed research by Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) at Rutgers University has found that TikTok manipulates content that it shows to users to brainwash them into developing a favourable view of China and the CPC. Advertisement Last year, the US Congress passed a bipartisan bill that required ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, to either sell the US operations of the platform to an appropriate non-Chinese company by Jan. 19 or see it get banned. While outgoing President Joe Biden supported it and signed the bill into law, incoming President Donald Trump has vowed to save TikTok. In a ruling that came as a surprise as the US Supreme Court is essentially in Trumps pocket, the judges unanimously ruled to uphold the law banning if its not sold. The ruling paved the way for TikTok to be banned on Sunday (January 19). The peer-reviewed research, which is to be published in journal Frontiers in Social Psychology, reenforces the long-held belief that TikTok is part of the influence-peddling and propaganda operation of CPC as it promotes pro-China, anti-West content. Moreover, the Chinese ownership of TikTok means all users data is accessible to the CPC, allowing it to gain deep insights into users behaviour and use those insights to hone its influence-peddling and propaganda operations. The research found that TikToks efforts have been successful. The findings showed that the more time users spent on TikTok, the more favourable perception of China they had. TikTok manipulates content to brainwash users, finds research The NCRIs research comprised three studies to understand three aspects of TikTok-China relationship: the nature and prevalence of content sensitive to CPC, whether the prevalence of pro- and anti-CPC content was in line with users engagement patterns, and whether users had a favourable view of China. In the first study, the researchers assessed the prevalence of TikTok showing content on topics sensitive to the CPC compared to Instagram and YouTube. The sensitive topics picked for the study were Uyghurs, the ethnic minority essentially enslaved by the CPC in their native Xinjiang in concentration camps; Tibet, the ancient region bordering India native to Buddhists that the CPC invaded and occupied in 1950-51 and where it has systematically eroded the native culture and heritage; and Tiananmen Square massacre of 1989 when CPCs forces killed thousands of pro-democracy activists. Advertisement The findings showed that TikTok showed much more pro-CPC content and much less anti-CPC content than Instagram and YouTube. Not only were TikToks results biased for pro-CPC content, the platform also showed lots of irrelevant content when these sensitive topics were searched. The irrelevant content was a tool to distract the users from finding content critical of the CPC and confuse them into turning to pro-CPC content. The study provided ample evidence that TikTok produces less anti-CCP and more irrelevant (distracting) content than other platforms, noted the researchers. They further noted, The clearest evidence for some sort of bias in TikTok search results was for anti-CCP and irrelevant content. Both results are consistent with some sort of suppression of negative information about CCP on TikTok. It is obvious why the CCP would seek to suppress negative information about the CCP. However, the distraction hypothesis specifically predicted the results for the irrelevant search results one way to steer users away from unflattering information about CCP is by sending them to links irrelevant to searches on topics about which the CCP is sensitive. Advertisement In the second study, TikTok produced a vastly higher ratio of pro- to anti-CPC content (content ratio) than could be explained by user engagement (likes and comments ratios). This means that irrespective how users engaged with pro- and anti-CPC content, they were shown more pro-CPC content. This is against how social media platforms in general function. For example, on any social media platform, whether its Instagram or X or even video hosting platforms like YouTube, you would be shown content based on your usage patterns. This means that if you like, comment, and share content related to dogs and cats, you would be shown more content related to dogs and cats. This is not how it is on TikTok. Advertisement In the study, despite liking and commenting on anti-CPC content four times more, the TikTok showed three times more pro-CPC content. This is the clearest indictment of TikTok as a tool of the CPC to groom users into supporters through manipulation of content. In the third study such manipulation was translating into CPCs favourable perception among users, the researchers found that was indeed the case. The study found that the more time users spent on TikTok, the more positively they viewed Chinas human rights record and China as a travel destination. TikTok is a vehicle for CPC propaganda In their conclusion, the NCRI researchers said that the findings raise the distinct possibility that TikTok is a vehicle for CPC propaganda. The researchers further noted that the studies showed that the CPC has moved on to much sophisticated propaganda. From hard propaganda that is discernible easily, they noted that the CPC has progressed to soft propaganda, such as presentation of positive information about China and the CPC through mass and social media, making claims that are less extreme purportedly more plausible of realistic in appearance. Advertisement In an interview with The Free Press, Joel Finkelstein, the Director and Chief Science Officer at NCRI, said the research showed that the belief that China is indoctrinating masses through TikTok is not a hypothesis but a fact. Finkelstein said, This scaled indoctrination isnt hypothetical. Its real. I think that the Supreme Court hearing now isnt about whether or not were dealing with a hypothetical threat. The Supreme Court hearing is about whether were going to allow this continued indoctrination. Trump also vowed to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and repeated his promise to impose significant tariffs on Mexico and Canada. read more President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday said he would not rule out the use of military force or economic action as part of his avowed desire to have the US take back control of the Panama Canal and acquire Danish-controlled Greenland. Speaking to reporters less than two weeks before he takes office on Jan. 20 and as a delegation of aides and advisers that includes Donald Trump Jr. is in Greenland, Trump left open the use of the American military to secure both territories. Trumps intention marks a rejection of decades of U.S. policy that has prioritised self-determination over territorial expansion. Advertisement Im not going to commit to that, Trump said, when asked if he would rule out the use of the military. It might be that youll have to do something. The Panama Canal is vital to our country. He added, We need Greenland for national security purposes. Trump told residents of Greenland that were going to treat you well as his oldest son visited the mineral-rich Danish territory thats home to a large U.S. military base, heightening speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to acquire it. The extraordinary statement came as Trump further outlined an expansionist agenda, two weeks before he is sworn into office at the Jan. 20 inauguration in Washington. Trump also vowed to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and repeated his promise to impose significant tariffs on Mexico and Canada. It covers a lot of territory, he said of the Gulf. The Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. His promise to rename the Gulf echoed his previous vow to revert the name of Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America, to Mount McKinley. Former President Barack Obama changed the name of the Alaskan mountain in deference to Native Americans. Advertisement Greenland, home to a large U.S. military base, is an autonomous territory of Denmark, a longtime U.S. ally and a founding member of NATO. Trump cast doubts on the legitimacy of Denmarks claim to Greenland. The Panama Canal has been solely controlled by the eponymous country for more than 25 years. The U.S. returned the Panama Canal Zone to the country in 1979 and ended its joint partnership in controlling the strategic waterway in 1999.a With inputs from agencies. Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan rejected a push by Trumps lawyers to postpone it indefinitely while they ask a state appeals court to reverse his decision last week that let the conviction stand read more 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 Trumps lawyers to postpone it indefinitely while they ask a state appeals court to reverse his decision last week that let the conviction stand. Advertisement 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. Trumps 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. 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. Advertisement Trumps lawyers did not immediately ask the appeals court to halt Trumps sentencing. In a separate filing with Merchan, they argued that the appeal should automatically pause the case. If it didnt, 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. 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. Advertisement 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 doesnt happen before Trump is sworn in, waiting until he leaves office in 2029 may become the only viable option, Merchan said in his ruling. 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. Advertisement In upholding the verdict and rejecting Trumps bids for dismissal, Merchan wrote that the interests of justice would only be served by bringing finality to this matter through sentencing. He said sentencing Trump whats known as an unconditional discharge closing the case without jail time, a fine or probation appears to be the most viable solution. Trumps 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 Courts 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 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. 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. In an unusual move, two prisoners who are among the 37 federal inmates whose death sentences were commuted by President Joe Biden in December have refused to sign paperwork accepting his clemency action read more Two federal inmates, Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, are refusing to accept outing US President Joe Bidens decision to commute their death sentences to life imprisonment without parole. Their refusal comes after Biden commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates last month, sparing them from execution. Both men, housed at the US Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, have filed emergency motions in federal court to block the commutations. Inmates argue commutation hurts legal appeals Agofsky and Davis claim that the commutation undermines their ability to appeal their convictions under heightened scrutiny, a legal standard that courts apply to death penalty cases due to their life-and-death stakes. To commute his sentence now, while the defendant has active litigation in court, is to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny, Agofskys filing stated. Advertisement This constitutes an undue burden and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, his filing further mentioned. Davis echoed these concerns, writing in his motion that the commutation would diminish attention to what he alleges is misconduct in his case. The case law on this issue is quite murky, Davis added, thanking the court for its prompt attention to this fast-moving constitutional conundrum. Legal experts say challenge faces hurdles Legal scholars note that inmates have little chance of successfully reversing a presidential commutation. A 1927 US Supreme Court ruling established that the president has unilateral authority to grant clemency without the convicts consent. A report by NBC News quoted Dan Kobil, a constitutional law professor at Capital University, as explaining that while some prisoners have refused commutations in the past, courts view such decisions as being in the public interest. Just as we impose sentences for the public welfare, the president commutes sentences for the public welfare, Kobil said. Details of the cases Agofsky, 53, was convicted in the 1989 murder of an Oklahoma bank president, Dan Short, during a robbery. While serving a life sentence, he was convicted of the 2001 murder of fellow inmate Luther Plant and sentenced to death in 2004. He maintains his innocence in both cases. His wife, Laura Agofsky, whom he married over the phone in 2019, said he refused to request clemency because his death sentence status provides him with legal counsel critical to his appeals. He doesnt want to die in prison being labeled a cold-blooded killer, she said. Davis, 60, a former New Orleans police officer, was sentenced to death for orchestrating the 1994 murder of Kim Groves. Prosecutors said Davis hired a drug dealer to kill Groves after she filed a misconduct complaint against him. Davis maintains his innocence and argues that federal courts lacked jurisdiction in his case. Advertisement Bidens clemency decision sparks mixed reactions Biden commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates, citing his opposition to the death penalty. I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted, the US President said. His administration had previously imposed a moratorium on federal executions. While Bidens decision was praised by anti-death penalty advocates, it faced backlash from some quarters. The Office of the Independent Police Monitor in New Orleans criticised the commutation of Davis sentence, calling it a painful reminder that justice is not always served as it should be. In this action, President Biden showed more mercy for Davis than this corrupt officer ever showed for Kim Groves, her children and family, and the people of New Orleans, the office said. Agofsky & Davis continue legal fight Both inmates are now requesting co-counsel to assist in their legal motions to block the commutations. Despite the challenges, their cases remain ongoing. The US Treasury on Tuesday announced sanctions against Antal Rogan, a close aide of of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban read more The US Treasury on Tuesday announced sanctions against Antal Rogan, a senior Hungarian government official, for suspected corruption. According to a Reuters report, Rogan, a close aide to Prime Minister Viktor Orban and head of his cabinet office, was not immediately available for comment, and a Hungarian government spokesperson also did not respond to a request for comment. The Treasury accused Rogan of leveraging his position to gain financial advantages for himself and his political associates. Advertisement The United States will not hesitate to hold accountable individuals, like Rogan, who use the power of their office to illicitly enrich themselves and their cronies at the expense of their country and their fellow citizens, Reuters quoted acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley T. Smith as saying in a statement. Rogan has been close to Orban for decades, running his governments media machine as well as his election campaigns. He currently also oversees the secret services of Hungary, a Nato ally. Relations between Hungary and the United States have become increasingly tense during the presidency of Joe Biden, due in part to Budapests warm ties with Moscow despite the war in Ukraine. Orban has been one of President-elect Donald Trumps most vocal supporters in Europe. Trump will be inaugurated as US president on January 20. With inputs from agencies The war erupted in April 2023 amid a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule, triggering the worlds largest displacement and hunger crisis read more The United States accused Russia at the United Nations on Monday of funding the two warring parties in Sudan, an apparent step up from Washingtons previous assertion that Moscow was playing both sides of the conflict to advance its political objectives. The war erupted in April 2023 amid a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule, triggering the worlds largest displacement and hunger crisis. In November Russia vetoed a U.N. Security Council draft resolution that called on the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. The remaining 14 council members voted in favor of the text. Advertisement Russia chose obstruction: standing alone as it voted to imperil civilians, while funding both sides of the conflict yes, thats what I said: both sides, the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the council on Monday, without giving further details. When asked to elaborate, a spokesperson for the U.S. mission to the U.N. said Washington was aware of Russias ongoing interest in Sudans gold trade and condemns any material support for the warring parties whether it be through illicit gold trading or the provision of military equipment. We believe Sudanese authorities gold mining cooperation with sanctioned Russian entities and individuals could prove inimical to Sudans long-term interests and the aspirations of the Sudanese people for an end to the war, the U.S. mission to the U.N. spokesperson said. In response, Russias deputy U.N. Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy said: We regret that the U.S. tries to judge other world powers by its own yardstick. Its obvious that in the Pax Americana which our American colleagues try to preserve at any price, relations with other countries are built only on their exploitation and criminal schemes aimed at U.S. enrichment, he said. Reuters was unable to immediately contact Sudans warring parties for comment. In December, Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia rejected what he called fabrications spread by Western countries and their media that Moscow was trying to play both sides to gain an advantage from the war. At what she said would likely be her last council meeting, Thomas-Greenfield became visibly emotional while addressing her counterparts on Sudan, a crisis that has been a focus for her during her four years at the world body. Advertisement For all the disappointment that I couldnt do more, that we all of us didnt do more I still remain hopeful, she said. Hopeful that the representatives sitting around this table the colleagues who have become friends will continue this sacred mission, this ultimate responsibility. Thomas-Greenfield was appointed by President Joe Biden. Donald Trump will succeed Biden on Jan. 20. Videos on social media show water gushing through streets, pushing away stationary cars parked along them and buildings submerged due to incessant rain and thunderstorms read more Heavy rains have lashed parts of Saudi Arabia with the key holy cities of Mecca, Madinah and Jeddah flooded impacting day-to-day lives and traffic flow. Videos on social media show water gushing through streets, pushing away stationary cars parked along them and buildings submerged due to incessant rain and thunderstorms. According to a report by the Saudi Gazette, Madinahs Al-Shafiyah received the highest downpour at 49.2 mm while the Al-Basateen district in Jeddah city recorded 38 mm of rain. Advertisement Massive floods due to torrential rainfall in Mecca, Saudi Arabia (06.01.2025) pic.twitter.com/jWQGYihWCR Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) January 6, 2025 The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a red alert for heavy rains, thunderstorms, and strong winds in multiple regions, lasting until Tuesday. Hussein Al-Qahtani, the spokesperson of NCM, has predicted more moderate to heavy rainfall in the coming days, adding that they might spread to the entire Kingdom. SAUDI_ARABIA | #flooding : heavy rainfall in recent hours has caused massive flooding in some regions of the Arabian Peninsula. In the province of #Mecca and particularly in #Jeddah, populations are facing worrying increases in rainwater. #SaudiArabia #Rains pic.twitter.com/LxvvViBTEP Nanana365 (@nanana365media) January 6, 2025 The Saudi Red Crescent Authoritys (SRCA) Makkah Region branch has increased its preparedness in response to heavy rain alerts issued by the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), according to the Saudi Press Agency. Advertisement The niobium-silicon alloy is lighter than the nickel or titanium alloys commonly used today and has three times the compressive strength at high temperatures. Engines made with this material could achieve speeds and operational efficiencies unattainable with current technology. read more For over three years, astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station have been conducting an experiment that may seem routine at first glance. The process involves striking alloy particles suspended in a vacuum chamber with a laser and observing the subtle changes as the particles cool. The experiment has been ongoing for so long that the equipment and samples have been replaced three times, but the results have proven worthwhile. According to the South China Morning Post, scientists back on Earth have used data from the experiment to produce a niobium-silicon alloy that meets the stringent requirements of industrial applications for the first time. Advertisement This breakthrough could revolutionise aerospace technology. Niobium-silicon alloy, for example, can be used to make turbofan engine blades capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 1,700 degrees Celsius (3,092 degrees Fahrenheit). However, niobium-silicon alloy has two significant drawbacks: the crystals slow growthrequiring 100 hours at nearly 1,600 degrees Celsiusand the materials brittleness at room temperature, which makes it unsuitable for engine manufacturing. By using a new rapid cooling method, scientists achieved a production speed of nearly 9cm per second for high-quality niobium-silicon crystals. Additionally, adding trace amounts of hafnium increased the alloys room-temperature strength by over three times, meeting the standards required for engine assembly. Improving fracture toughness is crucial for the industrial application of niobium-silicon-based alloys, wrote Wei and his colleagues in a peer-reviewed paper published on December 27 in Acta Physica Sinica, a journal of the Chinese Physical Society, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xian, known for its cutting-edge research on technologies like hypersonic aircraft, has faced severe sanctions from the United States. These sanctions have led to increased support from the Chinese government and military, enabling Weis team to conduct experiments aboard the still-under-construction Chinese space station since 2021. The microgravity environment has allowed Chinese scientists to observe unprecedented phenomena, including a unique shrinkage pore structure during the alloys rapid solidification and a completely different crystal growth pattern compared to ground-based experiments. Advertisement These discoveries have deepened the teams understanding of the physical properties of niobium-silicon alloy, leading to more practical and efficient production methods. This is a gift from heaven, a materials scientist in Beijing not involved in the research told the South China Morning Post. Its hard to imagine a team being able to secure so many resources and persist for so long in conducting such a challenging experiment in space. If niobium-silicon alloy can be mass-produced in the future, it will give China a huge advantage in the military and high-end manufacturing sectors. This is proof of how important it is for a country to have its own space station. Advertisement South Koreas ruling party has blamed Chinese people for Yoon Suk-yeols impeachment, a move critics warn could strain relations with Beijing and deepen domestic divides, according to a report read more South Koreas ruling party has blamed Chinese people for Yoon Suk-yeols impeachment, a move critics warn could strain relations with Beijing and deepen domestic divides. According to a South China Morning Post report, two lawmakers from Yoons conservative People Power Party (PPP) sparked controversy by claiming that Chinese residents in South Korea were openly supporting rallies calling for Yoons impeachment. Chinese people are at the forefront everywhere, supporting impeachment, South China Morning Post quoted PPP lawmaker Kim Min-jeon as saying at a pro-Yoon rally near the presidents residence last week. Advertisement This impeachment movement reveals its true nature. The essence of this fight is whether we can preserve our liberal democracy or lose it. We must unite to stop them, added Kim. Since his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14, Yoon has stayed in his residence near the Han River in Seoul, resisting summons and attempts by investigators to arrest him regarding his controversial martial law declaration on December 3, viewed as a failed self-coup. He remains suspended pending a Constitutional Court ruling. When questioned about her speech, Kim denied any intent to target foreigners. I am not discriminating against foreigners, she was quoted as saying. However, I do believe that foreigners should stay out of local politics, she added. Kim cited a specific case involving a 20-year-old ethnic Chinese woman who spoke at a pro-impeachment rally in December. Born to Chinese parents of Korean ancestry, she renounced her Chinese citizenship and called for Yoons ousting. This incident shows how deeply foreign influence has infiltrated domestic politics, South China Morning Post quoted Kim as saying. The woman, who lives in Incheon City, advocated for inclusivity at the rally, saying, I hope for a democracy where all marginalised groups can live peacefully together. Since then, she has faced online hate campaigns falsely labeling her as a Chinese impostor. Another PPP lawmaker, Yoo Sang-bum, said on Facebook that Chinese nationals were heavily participating in pro-impeachment rallies. He shared a post from a chat room user who claimed to have heard Chinese being spoken at one such rally. Advertisement On December 12, Yoon defended his martial law declaration, accusing political opponents of hindering legislation to prevent Chinese espionage. He cited two alleged incidents of Chinese spies filming American and South Korean military assets in June and November. In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning called these claims deeply unsettling and urged Seoul not to amplify baseless accusations. The Chinese embassy in Seoul also warned its nationals against participating in political activities, cautioning that they could face deportation. Chung Chung-sik, a 57-year-old farmer from North Jeolla province and regular rally participant, dismissed the notion of significant Chinese involvement in the protests. Its ridiculous to say Chinese people are massively participating, South China Morning Post quoted Chung as saying. Advertisement Dozens of pro-impeachment protesters have been camped outside Yoons residence for the past week, bundled in plastic sheets to shield against the winter cold. Meanwhile, about 100 anti-impeachment demonstrators gathered on Monday, demanding the arrest of opposition leader Lee Jae-myung for alleged election fraud and corruption. Chang Jung-a, a professor at Incheon National University and a China expert, said only a small number of foreign students had attended the rallies, motivated by curiosity about South Koreas democracy. Park Seok-woon, a prominent anti-government activist, accused the ruling party of fanning Sinophobia to deflect attention from Yoons self-coup fiasco. The conservatives are spreading fake news to reframe the martial law blunder as a well-meaning move gone wrong, Park told South China Morning Post. Advertisement Right-wing South Korean YouTubers have aligned with Yoon in their campaign against the opposition, labeling them as pro-North Korean anti-state forces. Following the self-coup attempt, Yoon, an admirer of far-right YouTube channels, told supporters near his residence, Im watching your struggle in real-time through YouTube live streaming, adding, Our country is in danger as anti-state forces are running amok. After a warning from the Chinese embassy, one right-wing YouTube channel claimed that participation in pro-impeachment rallies had sharply declined. Cho Gab-je, a prominent conservative commentator, said Yoon had apparently been brainwashed by extremist YouTube channels spreading conspiracy theories. His terminology is the same as those of extreme YouTube channels. Its total brainwashing. Conspiracy theories, witchcraft, this kind of thing destroys a person, South China Morning Post quoted Cho as saying on South Koreas CBS radio news show last week. Advertisement Columnist Hong Sung-guk dismissed accusations of Chinese interference as another conspiracy theory, comparing it to claims that the 2024 National Assembly elections were rigged by the opposition. South Korea has some of the worlds most avid YouTube users, including politicians, who become trapped in information bubbles created by conspiracy theorists which deepens political divides and harms ties with China," he told South China Morning Post. However, Yoons defence lawyer argues that evidence of election rigging, including ballot stuffing and result tampering, is compelling enough to warrant an investigation. Following the impeachment vote on Yoon, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo became acting president but was impeached on December 27 for allegedly interfering with proceedings against Yoon. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is currently serving as acting president. With inputs from agencies We will not consent to the disintegration of Syria or the disruption of its unitary structure under any guise. If we see a risk in this regard, we will take the necessary steps swiftly, a report quoted Erdogan as saying at a press conference read more Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday said that Turkey is prepared to intervene if Syria experiences a breakup following last months rebel overthrow of President Bashar Assads regime. We will not consent to the disintegration of Syria or the disruption of its unitary structure under any guise. If we see a risk in this regard, we will take the necessary steps swiftly, a Politico report quoted Erdogan as saying at a press conference. Advertisement Turkey supports Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the rebel group currently leading Syria, which allows Ankara to influence the countrys new leadership. Conversely, Turkey has long viewed Syrias Kurdish forces as a threat. Security in the predominantly Kurdish region is managed by the Syrian Democratic Forces, which include the Peoples Protection Units (YPG). Turkey designates the YPG as a terrorist organization, claiming it is linked to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has been engaged in an insurgency in Turkey since the 1980s. The only fate awaiting those who choose terror and violence is to be buried in the ground with their weapons. I am saying this openly, no power can prevent this, Erdogan was quoted as saying. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday declared that the YPGs elimination in Syria was imminent, asserting that Ankara would not permit the group to maintain a presence in the country. Turkey has previously launched multiple incursions into Syrian territory during the civil war that began in 2011. Turkey is not the only neighboring country voicing security concerns. Since the ousting of Assad, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on various targets in Syria and has taken control of a demilitarised buffer zone established by a ceasefire in 1974. Critics have accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and attempting to extend its influence over the border region. Advertisement With inputs from agencies CCTV: Last night, the 2025 BRICS chair Brazil announced that Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS. On January 1, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Cuba, Bolivia and many other countries became BRICS partners. Media commentators say that BRICS has entered a new era of greater BRICS cooperation, and will have an important impact on the solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and efforts to better the global governance system. What is Chinas comment? Guo Jiakun: China warmly welcomes the new addition to the BRICS family. The BRICS cooperation mechanism came into being amidst the collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries. It is also what the world would like to see in the interest of peace, the worlds common development and better global governance. Almost two decades on since the launch of BRICS, it now accounts for nearly half of the global population, more than a third of the global economy and more than half of the worlds economic growth. BRICSs representation, appeal and influence have been rising. BRICS has become a vital platform for promoting solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and a major force driving the reform of the global governance system. China stands ready to work with all BRICS members to embrace the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, advance the high quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, jointly advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for all. The future holds tremendous promise for greater BRICS cooperation. AFP: US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen held a video conference with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng today. The US Treasury Department stated that Yellen expressed concern over malicious cyberattack activities conducted by individuals supported by the Chinese government. What is Chinas comment? Guo Jiakun: You may refer to the readout China has released on the video call. On your specific question, Id refer you to competent authorities. Shenzhen TV: Kazakhstans President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said in a recent interview that Kazakhstan is an extremely important strategic partner for China, and the cooperation between the two countries has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted relationship, essentially achieving the status of a permanent comprehensive strategic partnership. The further development of comprehensive cooperation with China remains a key objective for Kazakh diplomacy. Kazakhstan and China have close business and trade ties and enjoy a bright future. He added that in 2023, Kazakhstan and China established a mutual visa-free regime, which has strengthened the bond between the two peoples. Kazakh citizens now have the opportunity to see firsthand how China has evolved, while also experiencing the friendly nature of the Chinese people. Do you have any comment on this? Guo Jiakun: China and Kazakhstan are good neighbors bound together by mountains and rivers, good friends sharing a high degree of mutual trust and good partners enabling each others success. Just as President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted in the interview, the cooperation between the two countries has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted relationship. In recent years, under the strategic and personal guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Tokayev, cooperation between China and Kazakhstan in various fields has entered the fast lane. The year of 2024 was a year of good harvest for China-Kazakhstan relations. President Xi paid a successful state visit to Kazakhstan and reached important new common understandings with President Tokayev on bilateral relations, providing a strong boost to bilateral cooperation. The two countries have seen frequent mutual visits at various levels and more robust trade and economic ties. Cooperation in industrial capacity, connectivity, agriculture, new energy and so on is going well. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges have seen new breakthroughs. Two-way travel hit a new high. In the new year, China stands ready to work with Kazakhstan to forge stronger synergy between our development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, jointly ensure the success of this years major events, translate the common understandings of our heads of state into more deliverables and continue to take China-Kazakhstan relations to new heights. Bloomberg: The US has blacklisted Tencent and the battery maker CATL. Would the ministry like to comment on this? Guo Jiakun: China stands firmly against the USs practice of overstretching the concept of national security, making discriminatory lists in various names and going after Chinese companies to contain Chinas high-quality development. The Chinese peoples right to development is not to be deprived of or ignored. We urge the US to immediately correct its wrongdoings, and end the illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction on Chinese companies. China will take all measures necessary to firmly defend the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and uphold its legitimate right to development. Antara: Still related to the announcement of Indonesia becoming the official member of BRICS. My question is as one of the founding members of BRICS, how does China see the strategic significance of Indonesia becoming an official BRICS member? Guo Jiakun: I just stated Chinas position on BRICSs addition. On your question, China welcomes and warmly congratulates Indonesia on becoming a full member of BRICS. Indonesia, as a major developing country and important force in the Global South, highly recognizes the BRICS spirit and has taken an active part in BRICS Plus cooperation. Indonesias official entry into BRICS serves the common interests of BRICS countries and the Global South, and we believe that Indonesia will make active contribution to the development of BRICS. China stands ready to work with Indonesia and other BRICS members to jointly build a more comprehensive, close, practical and inclusive partnership, advance the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and make greater contribution to building a community with a shared future for mankind. Reuters: Chinese media outlets have reported that the Chinese actor Wang Xing has gone missing at the Myanmar-Thailand border, citing the Chinese Embassy in Thailand. Can you confirm this? And in which country is Wang believed to have gone missing and can you show any other details on this case? Guo Jiakun: Relevant Chinese embassy and consulate have received request for help from the persons family and are in close communication with them. Our missions overseas are verifying the information and doing their work. We will follow up on the developments and direct our missions overseas in making sure everything is properly handled. Bloomberg: The Philippines has said a large Chinese Coast Guard vessel has maintained an illegal presence in its exclusive economic zone. The Philippine Coast Guard said that one of its vessels has been trailing the Chinese ship since it was spotted off the Capones Island in the western province of Zambales on Saturday. Would the ministry like to comment on this? Guo Jiakun: China Coast Guard conducts its patrols and law enforcement activities in relevant waters in full accordance with the law. It is fully justified. Antara: The spokesperson for the World Health Organization said that data from China indicates there has been a recent rise in acute respiratory infections but the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year are lower than last year. Is China still safe to travel for foreign visitors? Guo Jiakun: The Chinese government has and will continue to release information about infectious diseases in a timely and transparent way in accordance with law. On the specific question you raised, Id refer you to competent authorities. AFP: We noted that the new Chinese Ambassador to France Deng Li has arrived in France. What is your expectation for the development of China-France relations? Guo Jiakun: I would refer you to the press release by our embassy on Mr. Deng Lis arrival in Paris as Chinas new ambassador to France and Monaco. Chinas position on advancing its relations with France is consistent and clear. AMD has announced a range of new processors at CES 2025, further cementing its leadership in the AI PC market as the company introduces the Ryzen AI Max Series, Ryzen AI 300 Series, and Ryzen 200 Series processors. Additionally, AMD has expanded its commercial AI PC lineup with the inclusion of AMD PRO Technologies across these new processors, alongside new gaming and graphics products. Ryzen AI Max and AI Max PRO Series Processors The new Ryzen AI Max Series processors are tailored for next-gen AI PCs, providing exceptional power for gaming, content creation, and everyday tasks. These processors boast up to 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and up to 40 AMD RDNA 3.5 graphics compute units. With an AMD XDNA 2 Neural Processing Unit (NPU) offering up to 50 TOPS of AI performance, the Ryzen AI Max processors are designed to handle demanding AI workloads and large models. These processors support up to 128GB of unified memory, with 96GB allocated for graphics, enabling seamless multitasking and AI processing. The Ryzen AI Max PRO Series processors bring the same level of power to business-class mobile workstations. With enterprise-grade security and manageability through AMD PRO Technologies, these processors allow professionals to work on complex engineering and AI-driven tasks in ultra-portable systems. Ryzen AI 300 and AI 300 PRO Series Processors The new Ryzen AI 300 Series processors expand the Ryzen AI 300 family, now including Ryzen AI 7 and Ryzen AI 5 models. These processors feature up to 8 Zen 5 CPU cores, the latest RDNA 3.5 graphics, and an advanced NPU based on AMD XDNA 2 technology. These chips provide up to five times better AI performance compared to the previous generation. The Ryzen AI 300 PRO Series processors cater to business users with up to 50+ TOPS of AI performance, supporting AI-enabled applications like Microsoft Copilot+ while offering top-tier security and manageability features. Ryzen 200 and 200 PRO Series Processors AMDs Ryzen 200 Series processors bring the Zen 4 architecture to the FP8 platform, making AI capabilities more accessible. With up to 8 CPU cores and 16 threads, the Ryzen 200 Series processors are ideal for everyday users seeking excellent performance and battery life. For business professionals, the Ryzen 200 PRO Series ensures efficiency, security, and powerful AI processing capabilities. AMD PRO Technologies AMDs PRO Technologies offer enterprise-grade security and management features, helping businesses protect systems from cyber threats while simplifying IT operations. Recent additions include cloud-based recovery, supply chain security, and advanced attack detection and recovery tools, ensuring continuous protection for enterprise devices. Gaming Products: Ryzen X3D and Ryzen Z2 Series AMD also revealed new products to boost its gaming portfolio. The Ryzen 9950X3D and 9900X3D desktop processors deliver unparalleled performance, featuring 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and AMD RDNA 2 graphics, pushing the limits of gaming and content creation. These processors utilize 2nd Gen AMD 3D V-Cache technology, improving clock speeds and cooling efficiency for optimal performance. The Ryzen Z2 Series handheld gaming processors offer a unique blend of power and efficiency, enabling console-class gaming in a portable form. With up to 8 CPU cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics, the Ryzen Z2 processors deliver an immersive gaming experience on the go. Additionally, the new Ryzen 9000HX Series processors are designed for high-performance mobile gaming, featuring up to 16 cores and advanced DDR5 memory support. The Ryzen 9955HX3D is set to become one of the fastest mobile processors, delivering exceptional performance for gamers and creators. OEM Partnerships The company emphasized that OEM partners continue to integrate AMD Ryzen processors into their systems, further advancing AI-powered and gaming PCs. AMD is also strengthening its partnership with Dell, unveiling new Dell Pro systems powered by Ryzen AI PRO processors, set to launch later this year. Pricing and Availability Systems with Ryzen AI Max and Ryzen AI Max PRO Series processors are expected to be available in Q1, 2025. Systems powered by Ryzen AI 300 processors will also be available in Q1, 2025. Ryzen 200 Series processors are expected to hit the market in Q2, 2025. New Ryzen X3D models are set to be available in Q1, 2025. Ryzen Z2 systems will be available starting in Q1, 2025. Ryzen 9000HX Series processors for mobile notebooks will be available in the first half of 2025. Pricing will be announced as these products roll out. Speaking about the new developments, Jack Huynh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Computing and Graphics Group at AMD, said, The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) at CES 2025 announced that the adoption of Qi2 technology is growing rapidly, with a significant expansion of wireless power applications expected in 2025, particularly in Android devices. The announcement noted that Qi2, introduced just a year ago, has already reached over 1.5 billion devices globally, offering faster charging, improved efficiency, and enhanced convenience. Since its launch, over 1,100 Qi2-certified products have been released, reflecting a six-fold increase in adoption compared to the previous Qi version. Manufacturers are responding to the increasing demand for Qi2-enabled products, with many new releases anticipated throughout 2025. Qi2 Support Expands to Android Devices Initially rolled out in the fall of 2023, Qi2 was only supported by Apples iPhone. However, by late 2024, Android devices began adopting Qi2, and further expansion of Qi2-enabled Android devices is expected throughout 2025. Both Samsung and Google have announced their commitment to Qi2 adoption. Samsung confirmed that its Galaxy devices will support Qi2 in 2025, while Google is committed to increasing Qi2 integration in Android devices. Additionally, Google is contributing to the development of the upcoming Qi v2.2 standard, which will include high-power wireless charging technology. New Qi2 Extensions and Innovations The Qi2 ecosystem continues to expand, with new products such as Qi2 Ready certified devices, including smartphones and accessories like cases. These devices will deliver an enhanced Qi2 experience when paired together. A key innovation for 2025 includes the introduction of a wireless phone charger with a moving coil, designed for the automotive industry. This technology will address challenges like varying phone sizes, placement, and movement inside vehicles. The moving coil will detect the phones position and ensure a secure connection for fast, efficient charging. Panasonic Automotive Systems (PAS) contributed to the development of this moving coil technology and will continue to support the advancement of in-vehicle wireless charging systems. Both of these developments are part of the Qi v2.1 update to the Qi2 standard. WPCs Vision for the Future Paul Struhsaker, Executive Director of WPC, expressed his enthusiasm about the widespread adoption of Qi2, stating that the impact of Qi2 and its global adoption is outstanding, and that weve only seen the tip of the iceberg, with expanded use cases for a broader range of smartphones and other new applications continuing to accelerate Qi2 adoption and deployment. At CES 2025 Attendees at CES 2025 can visit the Wireless Power Consortiums booth (#52359) in the Venetian Expo Center, Smart Home section, to see demonstrations of Qi2 products and the Ki Cordless Kitchen. Speaking about the expansion of Qi2, Fady Mishriki, WPCs Chair of the Board of Directors, said, China adjusts tariffs to boost imports of high-quality products 11:12, January 07, 2025 By Wang Junling ( People's Daily Starting from Jan. 1, 2025, provisional import tariffs, lower than the most-favored-nation rates, have been applied to 935 Chinese commodities as part of an annual tariff adjustment plan recently issued by the Customs Tariff Commission of China's State Council. Experts said that lower provisional tariffs have been implemented for some raw materials, drugs, equipment, and components. Besides, China has adjusted the import tariff rates and items on certain goods in an effort to boost imports of high-quality products, expand Chinese domestic demand, advance high-level opening up, and promote high-quality development. Citizens shop in a store selling products imported from Russia in Gaoping district, Nanchong, southwest China's Sichuan province. (People's Daily Online/Yang Bo) The tariff adjustments were implemented in three aspects. First, to foster new quality productive forces through scientific and technological innovation, cycloolefin polymers, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers, and automatic transmissions for special-purpose vehicles such as fire trucks and repair vehicles can enjoy lower import tariffs. Second, to enhance people's well-being, China has cut tariffs on sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, viral vectors for CAR-T tumor therapy, and nickel-titanium alloy wires for surgical implants. Third, to promote green and low-carbon development, ethane and some recycled copper and aluminium raw materials also see their import tariffs reduced. According to Fan Min, deputy head of the information and market department of China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation, ethane, cycloolefin polymers, and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers are important basic materials for China's petrochemical industry. The tariff cuts can promote the application of green and low-carbon manufacturing processes and drive the development of high-tech, and high-performance products in downstream industries, Fan added. Demonstrating China's commitment to high-level opening up The tariff adjustments also demonstrate China's sense of responsibility as a major trading nation under the current international economic situation. In 2025, China will continue to offer zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to the 43 least developed countries (LDCs) with which it has diplomatic relations in a bid to support their development and foster mutual benefits. At the same time, China will continue to apply preferential tariff rates to certain products from Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar in accordance with the Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement and its exchange of notes with ASEAN member states. "Starting Dec. 1, 2024, China has given all the LDCs with which it has diplomatic relations zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines. In 2025, China will continue to implement this unilateral opening-up policy," said Cui Fan, professor with the University of International Business and Economics. At the same time, conventional tariff rates are applied to certain products from 34 countries and regions under 24 free trade and preferential trade arrangements in 2025, up from 30 countries and regions under 20 free trade and preferential trade arrangements as compared to the 2024 tariff adjustment plan. These changes signify an expanding "circle of friends" in China's foreign trade, Cui noted. A man works in an imported product warehouse in Jinyi Comprehensive Free Trade Zone in Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang province. (People's Daily Online/Shi Kuanbing) As the first annual tariff adjustment plan after the adoption of the law on customs duties, this plan represents China's commitment to steadily expanding institutional opening up, unilaterally opening its doors wider to LDCs, and expanding the globally-oriented network of high-standard free trade areas. It also demonstrates China's proactive efforts to promote high-quality development via high-level opening up, said Cui. "China has adopted a flexible and targeted approach in tariff adjustment. It has reduced provisional import tariffs on key equipment and components, drugs, medical equipment, and energy products. Besides, the country has also adjusted or eliminated provisional import tariffs on products for which it has a certain level of production capacity and competitiveness," said Gao Lingyun, a researcher with the Institute of World Economics and Politics under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Gao noted that these adjustment measures are contributing to China's efforts to expand opening up and promote industrial upgrading. Supporting measures keep unfolding in different regions Relevant departments in China have introduced a range of supporting measures. For instance, on Dec. 29, 2024, China's General Administration of Customs announced a new round of 16 measures to promote the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta and boost imports of high-quality products. One measure involves working with local governments to push forward the pilot program for a "white list" of imported materials for biopharmaceuticals research and development in the region to support regional synergy. Another measure is to set up a pilot program in Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang province, for a positive list management system of imported daily consumer goods. Additionally, a collaborative mechanism is underway to facilitate grain imports in the region, which will link entry ports, transit ports, and destination customs to enable information sharing, mutual assistance in law enforcement, and mutual recognition of results. Experts noted that as China continuously expands voluntary opening up and creates more favorable conditions for high-quality imported products, more and more foreign market players are expected to benefit from its growing import demand. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Iti doresti o presa libera si independenta, care nu da inapoi cand vine vorba de respectarea standardelor profesionale, refuza sa se lase cenzurata, sustine independenta justitiei, transparenta decizionala si valorile democratice. Alege sa o sustii. 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. Yemeni security forces dismantle Saudi, British espionage network Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 6:13 PM Yemeni security forces have dismantled an extensive espionage network accused of working for Britain and Saudi Arabia, amid operations against Israeli assets in the occupied territories in retaliation for the regime's campaign of genocide in Gaza. The Yemeni Security and Intelligence Service announced in a statement on Monday that the country's law enforcement forces apprehended members of a spy network affiliated with Britain's notorious Secret Intelligence Service (SISI), also known as MI6, who were working in coordination with the Saudi General Intelligence Presidency (GIP). The statement added that the spies were tasked with collecting sensitive information on Yemen's strategic facilities, including missile launch pads, drone operations, and the movements of high-profile military and political figures. They had been trained in the Saudi capital Riyadh, supplied with sophisticated surveillance tools, and dispatched on missions to monitor sensitive locations and gather critical data. The Yemeni Security and Intelligence Service underlined its full commitment to countering foreign acts of espionage, urging the Yemeni people to report suspicious activities. It also warned of severe penalties for those found to be collaborating with hostile foreign intelligence agencies. In June, Yemen's security forces busted an espionage network accused of working for the United States and Israel. Yemen's Security and Intelligence Service announced on June 10 that they had exposed a large espionage network active within various government departments for the past eight years. "The exposed network collected important information in various fields and carried out direct espionage technical operations on behalf of the enemy's intelligence services to obtain confidential, sovereign information," Major General Abdul Hakim Hashem al-Khaiwani, head of Yemen's Security and Intelligence Service, stated during a televised address. Security authorities reported that the US-Israeli-led network had recruited officials within the Yemeni government to influence decision-makers and infiltrate state agencies. The spies also conducted operations aimed at spreading diseases to compromise Yemen's health system and promoted "moral corruption" to undermine the country's education system. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 2 Georgians Among Detained Crew From Ship Suspected Of Damaging Baltic Sea Cable By RFE/RL's Georgian Service January 06, 2025 The captain and another crew member of the seized oil tanker suspected of damaging an electric power cable in the Baltic Sea last month are Georgian nationals. Georgia's Maritime Transport Agency told RFE/RL on January 6 that according to the ship's registry and "relevant partner agencies" in Finland, the two are part of the crew of the Eagle S, which was detained by Finnish authorities last month to help secure a financial claim for damages related to the breakdown of the undersea Estlink 2 electricity interconnector. The cable between Finland and Estonia was suddenly disconnected from the grid on December 25 along with telecommunications lines. The Cook Islands-flagged Eagle S was detained by Finnish authorities and is being held in Finnish waters in the Baltic Sea pending an investigation. The incident, one of several since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has raised concerns across Europe that energy and communications infrastructure are being targeted as part of what experts and politicians call Russia's hybrid war with Western countries. "A representative of the Georgian Embassy has already communicated with them [the two crew members]," the Maritime Transport Agency said. "[We] will await the completion of the investigation and will discuss further steps in accordance with the results," it added. Investigators have said they found a track on the seabed dozens of kilometers long indicating the ship dragged its anchor, but they have yet to find the anchor. According to the global ship monitoring website MarineTraffic, the ship significantly reduced speed at the same time interference was detected in the electrical power cable. The owner of the vessel, United Arab Emirates-based Caravella LLC FZ, has previously asked Finnish authorities to release it. The company has not responded to Fingrid's request to seize the vessel. Moscow has said it has no connection to the Eagle S and Finland's seizure of the vessel is not a matter for Russia. It has regularly denied that it is involved in any of the other incidents involving Baltic Sea region infrastructure assets. NATO announced it will strengthen its military presence in the Baltic Sea following the damage caused to the Estlink 2 and similar incidents since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The same day -- December 26 -- that Finnish authorities boarded and took command of the Eagle S, the European Commission said an unnamed cargo ship suspected of having deliberately damaged power and Internet cables in the Baltic Sea was part of Russia's "shadow fleet." The poor condition of these ships has also raised concerns about environmental disasters. Investigators have said the damage to the Estlink 2 and the telecommunications cables could have been caused by the ship intentionally dragging its anchor. The security chief for Finnish telecommunications operator Elisa echoed that assessment on January 6, telling AFP that the damaged cables appeared to have been severed by an anchor. "There is compelling evidence of the Eagle S at the site," Jaakko Wallenius said, adding that it is up to law enforcement to determine who was responsible. Wallenius said two of the damaged telecommunications cables had been repaired. One of the others is expected to be fixed by January 10, its operator said. It was unclear when the Estlink 2 power cable would be fixed. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/baltic-sea-cables- damage-georgians-detained-suspect-ship/33265084.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 Serbia deploys FK-3 air defense system, 'flagship export product from China' Global Times By Guo Yuandan and Liu Xuanzun Published: Jan 03, 2025 11:23 PM The Serbian Ministry of Defense announced its deployment of the Chinese-made FK-3 mid-range air defense weapon system, emphasizing its advanced capabilities, news website Defence Blog reported on Thursday. A military expert told the Global Times that the FK-3 demonstrates robust combat capabilities and serves as a flagship export product in China's air and missile defense portfolio. "By arming the Air Force and Air Defense with the new FK-3 air defense missile system, the airspace control and protection system has been significantly improved in the Republic of Serbia," the Serbian Ministry of Defense said in a recent statement. It said that the system comprises a command center vehicle, rocket launchers, radars, and logistics support vehicles. The Serbian Ministry of Defense also released detailed images of the FK-3 from different angles, including its inclined launch mode. According to the Serbian Ministry of Defense's statement, Captain 1st Class Stefan Manic, commander of the FK-3 missile battery, described the system as a "milestone in air defense systems." The Defence Blog reported that the crews operating the FK-3 have undergone intensive training in China. Captain Manic acknowledged the training process as "very complex" but highlighted the dedication and motivation of the unit members. All unit members successfully completed comprehensive training, enabling them to independently operate and maintain the missile system, he said. The report noted that the FK-3 system's deployment aligns with Serbia's ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities. The system not only enhances Serbia's ability to safeguard its airspace but also reflects the strengthening defense ties between Serbia and China. The FK-3 is the export version of the latest iteration of China's HQ-22 mid-range air defense missile system. Serbia's then-deputy prime minister and minister of defense Milos Vucevic told the Global Times in an interview in October 2023 that the acquisition of the modern FK-3 anti-aircraft system "has provided added security to our airspace and our country as a whole." A military expert told the Global Times on Friday that the FK-3 air defense missile combines strong overall combat capabilities with high cost efficiency. This type of air defense missile has wide applications, being versatile enough to conduct air defense missions for strategic locations as well as field operations. It is a flagship export product in China's air and missile defense system. "Because of the unique advantages of this type of missile, Serbia is displaying them to the public to demonstrate its robust air defense capabilities against potential threats," the expert said, stressing that China's arms export is mainly defensive in nature, and will not change the stability in the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Qassam Brigades spokesman downplays Israeli efforts to crush West Bank resistance IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 6, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Abu Obaida, the spokesperson for Hamas' armed wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, has praised a Monday anti-Israeli operation in northern West Bank, describing Israeli attempts to suppress resistance in the area as futile. His comments came shortly after a shooter, firing from a vehicle, targeted an Israeli bus in northern occupied West Bank, killing at least three Zionists. He said that the "steadfast heroes of the West Bank" have once again proven that all bets by the occupiers and their agents to break them or deter their support for Gaza are doomed to failure. Abu Obaida warned the Zionist enemies they will pay the price of continued atrocities in Gaza and the West Bank with the blood of their soldiers. He also stressed that the Zionists will not enjoy peace as long as the Palestinian people are deprived of security. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 3 rockets fired at Israeli settlements from Gaza: Report IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 6, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- The media sources have reported that three missiles were fired at Zionist settlements from inside the Gaza Strip. The Israeli army announced on Monday that rockets had been fired from the northern Gaza Strip towards the occupied territories, according to the Qatar-based Al Jazeera TV Network. The Israeli army confirmed that one missile was intercepted, another struck the settlement of Sderot, and a third landed in another area of the occupied territories. Also, the Zionist regime's Channel 12 reported that these rockets were launched from a location just a few hundred meters away from the Nahal Brigade base in Beit Hanoun, Gaza Strip. Earlier on Sunday, Israeli media indicated that an alarm was activated in the town of Netiv Ha'Asara, which is adjacent to the Gaza Strip. Channel 12 mentioned that sirens had been activated for nine consecutive days in settlements surrounding the Gaza Strip due to ongoing rocket fire from Gaza into occupied territories. Additionally, the Israeli military spokesman acknowledged that one rocket was launched from the northern Gaza Strip but exploded near the Erez crossing. The Zionist regime's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed at least 45,581 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 108,438 others. Thousands more are also missing and presumed dead under the rubble. On November 21 last year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former war minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Biden aide arrives in Doha to attend Gaza ceasefire talks IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 6, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- A senior adviser to US President Joe Biden and America's special representative for the Middle East has arrived in the Qatari capital to participate in the Gaza ceasefire talks. An American news website, Axios, citing a US official on the condition of anonymity, reported on Sunday night that Brett McGurk joins the Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Doha and that if the talks do not lead to an agreement over the next few weeks, the continuation of the talks can be handed over to the next US administration. McGurk's visit followed Secretary of State Antony Blinken's announcement that the US is actively collaborating with its partners, particularly Arab nations, on a comprehensive post-war plan for Gaza and expressed optimism about its implementation in the near future. Blinken clarified that if progress cannot be made, the plan will be referred to the next US administration for further action. He also voiced concerns over whether "Israel" has done enough to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery, emphasizing that the US has exerted pressure to ensure aid reaches those in need in Gaza. Meanwhile, the Israeli media reported that David Barnea, head of the Israeli spy agency (Mossad), would travel to Doha on Monday to continue the prisoner exchange talks with the Palestinians resistance movement Hamas. Earlier, Israel's Channel 12, citing unnamed sources, said that great progress has been made in the talks but added: "There is still a long way to go before we can congratulate ourselves on reaching an agreement". On Friday, Hamas, in a statement announced the resumption of indirect talks with the Zionist regime in Doha. Hamas added in the statement that the movement, like before, emphasizes its seriousness and positivity in the talks and strives to reach an agreement as soon as possible that fulfills the expectations the people of the Gaza Strip. Fate of Zionist captives in Gaza The Reuters news agency reported that Hamas has agreed to the release of 34 Israeli captives whose list was provided by the regime, a claim that has not been confirmed yet by either side. The report comes despite the Israeli media reported that prisoner exchange negotiations with Hamas are progressing and it is still too early to talk about an agreement. However, IRNA reported citing Al-Ain news agency that a Hamas official in an interview with Reuters said any agreement is conditional on the Israeli regime withdrawing from the Gaza Strip and establishing a permanent ceasefire. Al-Ain wrote that despite the publication of this news, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Hamas has not yet provided any list containing the names of Israeli captives. 4399 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister's Office Statement Israel - Prime Minister's Office Media Statements The 37th Government 06.01.2025 The Prime Minister's Office, this morning: The list of hostages that has been published in the media was not provided to Israel by Hamas but was originally given by Israel to the mediators in July 2024. As yet, Israel has not received any confirmation or comment by Hamas regarding the status of the hostages appearing on the list. Israel will continue to act relentlessly for the return of all of our hostages. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lithuania acquires small UAS and radios from the U.S. Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2025-01-06 Acquisitions and infrastructure development | Development and Strengthening of the Armed Forces The Defence Materiel Agency (DMA) under the Ministry of National Defence has signed several contracts with the U.S. Government on acquisition of manpack radios and small uncrewed aerials systems in a continued effort to strengthen the Lithuanian Armed Forces. The DMA signed two deals on acquisition of L3Harris manpack radios worth approx. USD 25 million in the end of 2024. This will bring the Lithuanian Armed Forces the most advanced L3Harris radios which will be integrated in the Joint Light Tactical Vehicles JLTV and the Vilkas Infantry Fighting Vehicles. The DMA also signed a deal with the U.S. Government in mid-December on acquisition of small UAS from U.S. manufacturer AeroVironment Inc. The contract is worth USD 7.8 million (without VAT). The vertical take-off drones is designed for fire control and adjustment tasks. The system will be integrated with Switchblade 600 combat drones also acquired from the U.S. Government. The UAS are planned to be delivered in the end of 2025 and supplemented further in the future. Lithuania is the largest procurer of U.S. weaponry among the Baltic states. Our acquisitions from the U.S. in the mid-term stands at USD 1.3 billion and takes up approx. 20% of our acquisitions, other purchased systems being the Javelin antitank missiles, JLTV vehicles, Black Hawk helicopters, HINARS, AMRAAM for medium range NASAMS, Switchblade, etc. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Palestinian teenager killed by Israeli army gunfire in West Bank People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 16:58, January 06, 2025 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel denies receiving hostage list from Hamas People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:47, January 06, 2025 JERUSALEM, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senator files reso to probe recovered drone off Masbate Philippine News Agency By Wilnard Bacelonia January 6, 2025, 5:41 pm MANILA -- Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino on Monday filed a resolution seeking to look into the potential threats posed by the recovered submersible drone off the coast of Barangay Inawaran, San Pascual, Masbate. In a press briefing, Tolentino said he filed Senate Resolution No. 1267 for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to confirm if the device, which was recovered within the country's exclusive economic zone, was given a permit. The senator believes that the 12-foot submersible drone found by local fisherfolk last Dec. 30 is for research purposes because of its color. "Ang kulay kasi ng scientific, dilaw at pula. Ang kulay ng military sa submersible drones, itim. Ang nakuha sa Masbate dilaw (Because the colors for scientific are yellow and red. The color of military for submersible drones is black. The one recovered in Masbate is yellow)," Tolentino explained. "Sa investigation, dapat masagot din ng Department of Foreign Affairs kung merong permit sa coastal state sang-ayon sa UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and Pilipinas para mag-conduct ng marine research ang isang dayuhan (In the investigation, the Department of Foreign Affairs must also answer if there is a permit from the coastal state in accordance with the UNCLOS and the Philippines for a foreigner to conduct a marine research)," he added. SRN 1267 directs the Senate Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones, which is also chaired by Tolentino, to probe the incident. "Maraming tanong na dapat sagutin. Maraming himala na dapat malaman. Maraming mga katanungang hindi pa natutugunan (There are many questions that need to be answered. There are many miracles that need to be known. There are still many questions that need to be answered)," Tolentino said, saying he was informed that the ongoing investigation of the Philippine Navy on the incident would take eight weeks. "It can be a prelude to a research that would probably lead to something bigger than the research itself," he added. Tolentino called on Filipino fisherfolk to be vigilant and immediately surrender to authorities any devices they may find off the country's coast. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Indonesia Becoming a Full Member of BRICS People's Republic of China Ministry of Foreign Affairs Updated: January 06, 2025 23:58 Q: Brazil, as the BRICS chair this year, released a statement announcing that Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS, which received wide attention from the international community. What's China's comment? A: China welcomes and warmly congratulates Indonesia on becoming a full member of BRICS. Indonesia, as a major developing country and important force in the Global South, highly recognizes the BRICS spirit and has taken an active part in "BRICS Plus" cooperation. Indonesia's official entry into BRICS serves the common interests of BRICS countries and the Global South, and we believe that Indonesia will make active contribution to the development of BRICS. BRICS is a main platform for promoting solidarity and cooperation of the Global South and a major force driving the reform of the global governance system. BRICS countries are always committed to multilateralism, fairness and justice, and common development. BRICS's latest addition follows the historic trend of the collective rise of the Global South. China stands ready to work with Indonesia and other BRICS members to jointly build a more comprehensive, close, practical and inclusive partnership, advance the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and make greater contribution to building a community with a shared future for mankind. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen crashes missiles, drones into American, Israeli targets Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 11:23 PM Yemen's Armed Forces have fired two missiles and four unmanned aerial vehicles into the occupied Palestinian territories and an American aircraft carrier deployed to Yemen's coastline, striking their intended targets accurately. The operations took place on Monday, striking USS Harry Truman and three Israeli military sites, including two located in the city of Yaffa near Tel Aviv, the forces said in a statement. "The missile force and the drone force of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a qualitative and joint military operation targeting the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman with two winged missiles and four drones in the northern Red Sea, while they were preparing to launch a major air attack on our country. The operation led to the failure of the attack," they said. "This afternoon, our forces carried out two military operations. The first targeted a military target belonging to the Israeli enemy in occupied Yaffa with two drones," the troops noted, adding, "The other operation targeted a vital Israeli enemy target in occupied Ashkelon with a drone." "Our forces carried out a third military operation this evening, targeting a military target belonging to the Israeli enemy in occupied Yaffa with a drone," the statement said. "The operations successfully achieved their goals." The Yemeni troops began launching their operations against Israeli targets in October 2023 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 sustain their strikes as long as the Israeli regime kept up its brutal military aggression and a simultaneous siege it has been deploying against Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Qassam Brigades warns Israel will pay 'in blood' for its aggression Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 6:40 PM The al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, has warned that the Israeli regime will pay a price "in blood" for its continued aggression against Palestine. "The enemy (Israel) must know that if it continues its aggression against Gaza and the West Bank, it will pay the price with the blood of its soldiers and settlers," Abu Obaida, the spokesman for the Al-Qassam said in a statement on Monday. He commended the shooting operation that killed three Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank earlier on Monday, saying the resistance fighters in Gaza are "brave heroes" who continue to demonstrate their commitment at the heart of the ongoing Operation al-Aqsa Flood. At least three Israeli settlers were killed and six more injured in a retaliatory shooting operation near al-Funduq village, located east of Qalqilya, in the northern part of the West Bank. The Gaza-based Hamas resistance movement also praised the "heroic" shooting operation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Abu Obaida further said Israel's efforts to deter the resistance fighters in the West Bank from supporting the Gaza Strip are "destined to fail." He emphasized that the occupation "will never enjoy peace and security until our people do." Israel approves West Bank operations after shooting Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a situation assessment about the Funduq shooting in the presence of top military and security officials, his office said in a short statement. It added that Netanyahu "approved the operations to apprehend" the Palestinian fighters and "bring them to justice". He also agreed to a series of "additional offensive and defensive actions in Judea and Samaria," the statement said. Since Israel unleashed a war on the besieged Gaza Strip in early October 2023, casualties have been rising in the West Bank as a result of intensified near-daily Israeli raids into villages and cities in the occupied territories. At least 838 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces or extremist Jewish settlers since the war began. More than 6,700 Palestinians have been wounded as well, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Israel's war on the Gaza Strip has killed at least 45,854 Palestinians, most of them women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More than 30 million in need of aid in Sudan, UN warns Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 2:24 PM The United Nations warned on Monday that more than 30 million people are in need of urgent aid in Sudan. An ongoing power struggle between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023 has torn the country apart and plunged it into famine. In five areas across Sudan famine has already been declared with food shortage expected to be announced in five more areas by May, with 8.1 million people currently on the brink of mass starvation. To save the Sudanese people from imminent starvation, the UN has launched a $4.2 billion call for funds, targeting 20.9 million people across Sudan from a total of 30.4 million people it said are in need in what it called "an unprecedented humanitarian crisis". Till now, tens of thousands of people have been killed and more than eight million internally displaced, which, in addition to 2.7 million displaced before the war, has made Sudan the world's largest internal displacement crisis. An additional 3.3 million people have fled across Sudan's borders to escape the war, which means over a quarter of the country's pre-war population, estimated at around 50 million, are now uprooted. Meantime, the Sudanese army denies there is famine in the country, blaming the enemy for the shortages in the country. However, both the Sudanese army and the RSF have been accused of weaponizing starvation as a tool to inflict enemy casualties. The Sudanese army, allegedly, staged an airstrike on southern Khartoum on Sunday, killing ten and wounding over 30 Sudanese civilians, according to volunteer rescue workers. The airstrike targeted the market area of the capital's Southern Belt "for the third time in less than a month," according to the local Emergency Response Room (ERR), part of a network of volunteers across the country coordinating frontline aid. Since April 2023, the Sudanese army and RSF have been engaged in an internal strife. The capital Khartoum has witnessed some of the war's worst violence, with entire neighborhoods emptied out and taken over by fighters. The Sudanese army, which maintains a monopoly on the skies with its jets, has not managed to wrest back control of the capital from the paramilitary forces. Out of the 11.5 million people currently displaced across Sudan, nearly a third has fled from the capital, according to United Nations figures. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have been repeatedly accusing the opposite side of targeting civilians and indiscriminately shelling residential areas. Weeks ago, the UN raised the alarm about the dire conditions of Sudanese women. It said it was "ashamed" over its failure to stem Sudan's gender violence. "I feel ashamed that we have not been able to protect you, and I feel ashamed for my fellow men for what they have done," said Tom Fletcher, head of the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fears grow among Israeli forces over risk of arrest in intl. travels after soldier flees Brazil Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 11:02 AM The escape from Brazil of an Israeli soldier accused of committing war crimes in Gaza has reignited fears of prosecution abroad among the Israeli forces and their families. "Moms Up," a group of Israeli soldiers' mothers, has written to Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli military chief of staff following the case in Brazil, pleading for help to escape justice. "We see you as the sole responsible party for removing the legal risk facing our children." Reports said on Sunday that the soldier, a reservist who was vacationing in Brazil, managed to leave the Latin American country, despite a court order. The Israeli foreign ministry on Sunday admitted that the Israeli embassy in Brazil had orchestrated "his swift and safe departure from Brazil." Last week, a Brazilian judge ordered police to investigate the soldier, accusing him of "participating in massive demolitions of civilian homes in Gaza during a systematic campaign of destruction." The case is the latest in a series of lawsuits brought by the Hind Rajab Foundation (HRF), which has been pursuing justice for the Palestinian victims of the Israeli genocide in Gaza. The group has filed several complaints in various countries against Israeli forces who participated in the genocidal war on Gaza. It also filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC) against 1,000 Israeli soldiers. The Brazilian case has also caused a political furor in Israel, with the leader of the opposition, Yair Lapid, saying, "The fact that an Israeli reserve soldier had to flee Brazil in the middle of the night to avoid being arrested for fighting in Gaza is a monumental political failure" of the current Israeli administration "that is simply incapable of functioning." The so-called foreign affairs and security committee in the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, will discuss the complaints filed against Israeli soldiers around the world on Monday. Dozens of complaints filed Israeli media on Monday reported that pro-Palestinian organizations have filed 50 complaints in courts around the world against Israeli soldiers accused of committing war crimes in Gaza. "About 50 complaints have been filed against reserve soldiers, 10 of which have been investigated without any arrests recorded so far," the KAN broadcaster said. According to the Israeli daily Haaretz, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Belgium, France, and Brazil were among the countries in which the complaints have been filed. Last month, Israeli soldiers involved in the genocidal war on Gaza were urged to refrain from posting war photos over fears of prosecution abroad. "Do not post a picture of yourself in the battlefields of Gaza or elsewhere. Do not even post at all on social media," an account on X which claims to be affiliated with Israeli spy agency Mossad wrote. Israel launched the genocidal war, which has so far killed at least 45,805 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured more than 109,064 others, since October 7, 2023. In November, the International Criminal Court's Pre-Trial Chamber I issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant "for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed from at least 8 October 2023 until at least 20 May 2024, the day the Prosecution filed the applications for warrants of arrest." Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its deadly war on the besieged strip. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza Health Ministry warns of 'totally catastrophic' situation in besieged north Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 10:57 AM Gaza's ministry of health on Friday warned that the health situation in the northern part of the besieged territory is "totally catastrophic" as the main hospitals are out of service due to the Israeli regime's relentless attacks. Northern Gaza has been under the Israeli regime's siege for more than three months, with a near-total blockade on aid and relentless air attacks. The small enclave has three public hospitals, Kamal Adwan, Beit Hanoon and the Indonesian Hospital, all of which the Israeli regime has forced out of service. "The remaining three hospitals in Gaza and northern Gaza are small and incapable of receiving large numbers of injured people," said ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra. "The injured people are being treated lying on the floor and many of them have to wait until a doctor checks their health situation" he added. Reporting on the state of Gaza's healthcare system since October 2023, the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) said on Tuesday that the Israeli regime's "pattern of deadly attacks on and near hospitals in Gaza ... have pushed the healthcare system to the brink of total collapse." "The impact of the Israeli military's operations in and around hospitals ... extend far beyond the physical structures," the report found. For instance, it continued, "women, especially pregnant women, have suffered gravely. Many women have given birth with no or minimal pre- and post-natal care, increasing the risk of preventable maternal and child mortality." Furthermore, the Israeli regime's forces "have used both heavy weapons and air-dropped munitions with wide area effects," like the airstrike on Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. As a result of the attack, at least 12 people were killed, including a journalist and several internally displaced persons (IDPs), and 35 people were injured. The report added that "another feature of such attacks has been the apparent targeting of people inside hospitals." The UN Human Rights Office verified multiple cases of people being shot dead at Al Awda Hospital in Jabalya, including a volunteer nurse who was fatally shot in the chest while looking out of a window on 7 December 2023. The Israeli regime's genocidal war against the people of Palestine has taken the lives of more than 45,800 people and injured over 109,000 others, most of whom are children and women. Most of Gaza's 2.3 million population has been displaced and much of the besieged territory is in ruins. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Over a dozen Palestinians killed, dozens injured in Israeli strikes on Gaza Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 9:36 AM Israel has renewed its bloody airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, killing 14 Palestinians and injuring dozens more in the blockaded territory. The Palestinian WAFA news agency reported on Monday that four Palestinians were killed and several others were wounded in Israeli air raids that targeted a house belonging to the Barakat family in the vicinity of Sheikh Radwan pond, north of Gaza City. A child and a woman also lost their lives in an Israeli drone attack on a residential building next to Gaza City's Great Omari Mosque, the report said, adding that several people were injured and went missing under the rubble. Similar Israeli aerial assaults killed a person in the Jabalia refugee camp as well as twins elsewhere in the northern part of the besieged territory, according to the report. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes on Gaza's southern Rafah Governorate killed four people, two of them farmers. The report further noted that Dr. Thabat Salim, who worked as a volunteer at the al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, was a victim of the Israeli air raid on a house at the Nuseirat refugee camp, in central Gaza. Israel launched a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, after the Palestinian Hamas resistance group carried out a historic operation against the usurping entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. So far, the occupying regime has killed at least 45,805 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 109,064 others, in Gaza. During its brutal onslaught, Israel has targeted Gaza's civilian infrastructure, including homes, hospitals, and schools, in blatant violation of international law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Raging raids: Israeli forces storm more areas in occupied West Bank Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 7:21 AM Israeli forces have launched new raids across the occupied West Bank, as in Gaza, another baby has died of hypothermia amid plummeting temperatures and the Israeli military's tight restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid, including blankets and winter supplies. The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that Israeli forces stormed the town of Marda, located 18 kilometers (11 miles) southwest of Nablus, as well as the Balata refugee camp, near Nablus, late on Sunday evening. In Marda, Israeli troops fired sound and light bombs and raided several Palestinian homes. The village is home to the Bar al-Walidain Mosque which Israeli settlers had set fire to on December 20, Wafa reported. The sound of gunfire was heard in Balata, as Israeli forces - accompanied by a military bulldozer - stormed the camp. Moreover, Israeli forces stormed Ras Khamis neighborhood, northeast of the occupied al-Quds, on Sunday evening. The al-Quds Governorate said in a brief statement that Israeli troops stormed Ras Khamis neighborhood, amidst the firing of toxic gas bombs. No injuries or detentions were reported, however. Palestinian teenager killed by Israeli forces during Nablus raid Furthermore, a teenager was killed on Sunday evening after being shot by Israeli occupation forces in the Askar al-Jadeed refugee camp, east of Nablus. The Palestinian Ministry of Health in a brief statement identified the victim as 17-year-old Moataz Ahmed Abdul Wahab Madani. The Israeli troops stormed Askar hill area and fired live bullets, flares and tear gas, which resulted in Madani being shot in the chest with a live round. He was subsequently transferred by the Palestinian Red Crescent to Rafidia Hospital in Nablus, where he was declared dead due to his injuries. Meanwhile, the eighth baby has died of hypothermia in Gaza. "I am the mother of Yousef. I lost him," the infant's mother said. "He died because of the very cold weather. He slept next to me and in the morning, I found him frozen and dead. I don't know what to say," she said. "No one can feel my misery. No one in the world can understand our catastrophic situation. Yousef was fine. He was born healthy... I lost Yousef forever." Backed by the United States and its Western allies, Israel launched the war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, after the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against the Israeli regime in response to its decades-long campaign of oppression against Palestinians. The regime's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed at least 45,805 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured 109,064 others. Thousands more are also missing and presumed dead under rubble. On November 21 last year, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for its deadly war on the blockaded coastal sliver. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel will not withdraw from southern Lebanon by ceasefire end: Report Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 7:15 AM Israel will not leave the occupied areas in southern Lebanon at the end of the 60-day withdrawal period stipulated in a ceasefire deal with the Hezbollah resistance movement, a report says. "Unless there is a huge surprise, the Lebanese Army won't be able to deploy fully during the 60-day ceasefire, which means Israel will have to stay" for some longer period, an unnamed Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post on Sunday. The message, he added, has been relayed to the administration of US President Joe Biden. Hezbollah opened a support front for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip after Israel unleashed a genocidal war on the besieged territory on October 7, 2023, launching numerous retaliatory attacks against targets in the occupied lands. Israel was forced to accept the truce with Hezbollah on November 27, 2024, after suffering heavy losses on the battleground and failing to achieve its goals despite killing over 4,000 people in Lebanon. The deal, due to expire on January 26, gave Israel 60 days to pull out its forces from the occupied towns and hand over control to the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers. Also on Sunday, a Lebanese ministerial source said that the government is "seriously" handling the reports on Israel's possible non-withdrawal and that caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati is intensifying efforts to warn against the move. Meanwhile, Lebanese MP Kassem Hashem stressed that his country will not allow Israeli forces to remain an hour more in the south as soon as the truce expires. "Should Israel remain in Lebanon beyond the deadline, then all international norms and treaties give Lebanon and its people the right to fully liberate their territories through all means necessary," he told the pan-Arab Asharq al-Awsat newspaper. On Saturday, Hezbollah Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem expressed the resistance group's readiness to retaliate against Israeli violations of the truce deal. "Our patience may run out during or after the end of the [ceasefire] deadline," he warned. "The resistance is not bound by any time schedule. The resistance's leadership decides when and how to resist." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Jan. 5: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 6:32 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 and regional resistance groups on Sunday, Jan. 5, are as follows: Al Qassam Brigades' operations on Jan. 5: In a joint operation with the Al-Quds Brigades, engaged in fierce clashes with an Israeli infantry force consisting of 10 soldiers with weapons and hand grenades, killing and wounding them, west of the city of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip. Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Jan. 5: Carried out a raid on a building housing several Israeli soldiers in Jabalia Camp, northern Gaza Strip. Before withdrawal, they detonated an explosive device left behind by the enemy forces inside the building. Confronted Israeli occupation forces storming several axes in the town of Jenin, occupied West Bank, and targeted them with heavy volleys of bullets. Blew up an Israeli military jeep in Tamun (Tubas Governorate), occupied West Bank. Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli forces in Tubas and Tulkarem, occupied West Bank. Engaged in fierce battles with invading Israeli forces on the combat fronts surrounding the New Askar Camp. Mujahideen Brigades' operations on Jan. 5: Targeted Israeli military's command and control headquarters in Jabalia Services Club with 60mm mortar shells. Yemeni military's operations on Jan. 5: Targeted "Orot Rabin" power station linked to the Israeli enemy south of the Haifa area in the occupied territories, with a hypersonic ballistic missile, Palestine 2. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Yemen warns Israelis: Go back to your country of origin; we won't leave Gaza alone Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 5:55 AM A high-ranking member of Yemen's popular resistance Ansarullah movement advises the illegal settlers in the occupied Palestinian territories to leave those areas for where they came from as Yemen will not cease its retaliatory anti-Israeli operations. Hizam al-Assad, member of Ansarullah's Political Bureau, made the remarks in a post on X on Monday. "Whoever wants to get to sleep comfortably has to leave for either Cypress or their own country," he said. The official insisted that Yemen's Armed Forces would sustain their pro-Palestinian strikes as long as the Israeli regime kept up its war of genocide against the Gaza Strip, and did not stop the attacks that it has been carrying out against Yemen to try to stop the Arab Peninsula nation's operations. "We will not leave Gaza alone," he said. The official had earlier underlined that the regime would keep being faced with surprise military strikes on the part of the Yemeni forces as long as it retained its aggressive approach towards his country. "Our military operations will keep targeting the heart of the occupied territories," he had stated. "These surprises will last until the regime ceases its aggression and siege against Gaza," Assad had noted, referring to a simultaneous smothering blockade that Tel Aviv has been deploying against the coastal sliver. The Yemeni troops began launching their operations against Israeli targets in October 2023 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines says China's 'monster' ship on a mission to intimidate Beijing has repeatedly asserted its jurisdiction over Scarborough Shoal, which lies within Manila's exclusive economic zone. By Jason Gutierrez for Benar News 2025.01.06 MANILA -- The Philippines has deployed vessels and aircraft to closely monitor a gigantic Chinese coast guard ship - the world's largest - in waters off Luzon island, Filipino officials said, describing the ship as a menacing presence in its exclusive economic zone. The 12,000-ton China Coast Guard vessel 5901, known as "The Monster" for its sheer size, was last seen on Saturday about 54 nautical miles from Capones, a Philippine island in the South China Sea close to the coast of western Zambales province. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has been shadowing CCG 5901 and transmitting radio messages asking it to leave Philippine waters, said Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council. "Obviously, this is an act of intimidation, coercion and aggression against the Philippines," Malaya told a press briefing on Monday. "We have all our assets pointed at this monster ship. At the moment it does something bad in the sense that it would provoke actions, there will be appropriate action from the government," Malaya said, without elaborating. The Chinese ship arrived last week at Scarborough Shoal, a disputed South China Sea feature within the Philippines' EEZ, an analyst told Radio Free Asia, a news service affiliated with BenarNews. Malaya dismissed a Chinese government statement saying that its vessel was merely conducting a patrol within its jurisdiction. China's embassy in Manila has not responded to media requests for comment, but has repeatedly asserted Beijing's jurisdiction over Scarborough Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines. The shoal, located 125 nautical miles (232 kilometers) from the main Philippine island of Luzon, has been under Beijing's de facto control since 2012. It is claimed by China, the Philippines and Taiwan. The shoal is a traditional fishing ground for Filipino fishermen but Chinese vessels have restricted their access in recent years. While CCG 5901 has not carried out any dangerous maneuvers so far, Malaya said its activities within Manila's waters were not backed by any international law. "And given that we do not want to be the precursor of any provocative action, we're just monitoring and shadowing it as of now," he said. On Sunday, the Philippine Coast Guard said that one of its ships, the BRP Cabra, and its aircraft were tailing the huge Chinese ship and issuing radio challenges. As of 7 p.m. Monday, the BRP Cabra had kept on the heels of the foreign ship for a third straight day, said Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesman for the West Philippine Sea - Manila's name for South China Sea waters within its exclusive economic zone. CCG 5901's "erratic movements" indicated that it was not engaged in "innocent passage" in Philippine waters, but was actually conducting "a law enforcement operation" in Manila's territorial waters, Tarriela said. In November, Beijing announced baselines of its territorial sea around the Scarborough Shoal to strengthen its claim over the South China Sea feature, a move that Manila rejected. Last month, confrontations heated up between Beijing and Manila around the area, with both claimants accusing each other of instigating trouble. Beijing said Manila was encroaching in what it claimed as its jurisdiction, forcing it to take measures. The PCG accused its Chinese counterpart of firing a water cannon and of sideswiping a government fisheries ship patrolling the area. In 2012, China took possession of the shoal, forcing the Philippines to file a lawsuit before a world court. Four years later, an international arbitral tribunal ruled in Manila's favor. Beijing has refused to acknowledge the ruling. BenarNews is an online news outlet affiliated with Radio Free Asia. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dalai Lama gets stirring welcome in South India for extended stay Tibetans express joy at their spiritual leader's first visit to the Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement in over 7 years. By Pema Ngodup, Dickey Kundol and Tenzin Dhonyoe for RFA Tibetan 2025.01.06 BYLAKUPPE, South India -- The Dalai Lama on Sunday received a stirring welcome in South India, where more than 10,000 Tibetans lined the streets to greet the Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader as he arrived for an extended stay at the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe. It was his first visit to the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement in the Indian state of Karnataka the largest Tibetan settlement in the world outside Tibet in over seven years. Over 20,000 Tibetans live in the community, which was established on land leased by the state government for Tibetans who resettled in India after 1959. That was the year that China quelled the Tibetan national uprising movement and annexed Tibet, prompting the 14th Dalai Lama to flee to India alongside thousands of Tibetans. The trip also marked the Dalai Lama's first domestic travel within India after his return to his residence in Dharamsala in the northern part of the county in late August 2024, following a two-month stay in the United States, where he underwent a successful knee replacement surgery in New York. The visit comes as the Dalai Lama, 89, tries to allay concerns over his general health amid questions about his successor. The Chinese government insists it will select the 15th Dalai Lama, though Tibetan Buddhists believe in the reincarnation of their spiritual leaders. The Dalai Lama, who has said he expects to live to be over 100 years old to fulfill the wishes of the Tibetan people, has stated that his incarnation could be found in India. "Today, I have come to Tashi Lhunpo Monastery which was founded by Gyalwa Gendun Drub, the First Dalai Lama," he said, at a reception ceremony in the monastery. "As his successor, I feel happy and honored to be here today." The Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, known as the seat of the Panchen Lama, was founded in 1447 in Shigatse, Tibet, by the first Dalai Lama, Gyalwa Gendun Drub. After China's occupation of Tibet, the monastery was re-established in Bylakuppe, South India, in 1972 by senior monks under the guidance of the Dalai Lama. "In Tibet, the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery was renowned for the quality of the monks' studies of Buddhist philosophy and logic," he said. "It is one of Tibet's most important monasteries," the Dalai Lama said. The exact duration of the Dalai Lama's "extended stay" in South India has not been disclosed. Local Tibetan officials told RFA that the primary purpose of his visit is to rest and enjoy the warmer climate of South India in the winter, and that, as such, no major teachings have, as yet, been planned. However, from Wednesday onwards, public blessings for the Tibetan people are expected to be held three times a week every from Monday, Wednesday and Friday with the initial rounds to focus on Tibetans aged 80 and above, according to the Dalai Lama's office. Rousing welcome The Dalai Lama left his residence in Dharamsala on Jan. 3 for an overnight stay in the Indian capital New Delhi, from where he made a journey to Bangalore the following day. There, hundreds of Tibetan professionals, students and businessmen dressed in their traditional best greeted him with incense, flowers and silk scarves. On Jan. 5, the Dalai Lama flew by helicopter from Bangalore to the Bylakuppe settlement. All along the more than 5-kilometer (3-mile) stretch of road leading to the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, thousands of Tibetans carrying traditional silk scarves and incense welcomed him amid the sounds of cymbals, drums and horns, as monks and nuns chanted. "All of us residents of the Tibetan settlements in South India are very fortunate that His Holiness is here," said Namgyal, who hails from the Doeguling Tibetan Settlement in Mundgod, about 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of Bylakuppe. "Even though I'm old, I've made the journey to be here to satisfy my heart's desire to see His Holiness," he said. Tsewang Dolma, an elderly woman from the Tibetan settlement in Hunsur, over 40 kilometers (25 miles) east of Bylakuppe, said she was elated about the visit. "I feel very emotional and am almost tearing up," she told Radio Free Asia, while holding a bouquet of flowers to welcome the Dalai Lama. "All I pray for is that he lives a long, long life." Role of Buddhist monasteries The Dalai Lama's last visit to Bylakuppe was in December 2017, during which he gave Buddhist teachings at Sera Jey and Sera Mey monasteries. In his address at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, where the heads of all the different Tibetan monastic institutions were gathered, the Dalai Lama emphasized the critical importance of monasteries in serving as "centers of learning" for Buddhist study and practice. "As I have always advised, the principal purpose of a monastery is to serve as a center of learning where monks and nuns have the opportunity to study and put into practice the Buddha's teachings," he said. "Members of all the monastic institutions should strive to uphold the Buddha's teachings, particularly in this degenerate age," the Dalai Lama said, while noting the growing interest in Buddhism in China and other regions. "Today, many people around the world who are not Buddhists are taking an interest in the Buddha's teachings," he added. "These include scientists who value the Buddhist tradition's emphasis and use of reason and logic." Translated by Tenzin Norzom and Tashi Wangchuk. Edited by Tenzin Pema for RFA Tibetan, and by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. The story was updated to say that over 20,000 Tibetans live in the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address After Degrading Hamas And Hezbollah, Israel Intensifies Attacks On Yemen's Huthis By Abubakar Siddique January 06, 2025 Israel has degraded the fighting capabilities of its chief adversaries over the past year, including Lebanon's Hezbollah and the U.S.- and EU-designated Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. But Yemen's Huthi rebels, who continue to fire missiles and drones at Israel, have proven a resilient foe despite Israeli attacks. "Deterring the Huthis presents significant challenges," said Ahmed Nagi, a Yemen analyst for the Brussels-based International Crisis Group. "Israel lacks sufficient intelligence about the group and its operational capabilities." Israel's success hinges on its ability to locate and destroy the Iranian-backed group's weapons facilities, a task that has "proven difficult so far," Nagi said. Another challenge is geography. Yemen is located some 2,000 kilometers from Israel. The Huthis also control large swaths of the country, including their stronghold in the mountainous northwest and the Red Sea coastline. Even so, Israel has intensified its air strikes in recent weeks against the Huthis, despite the armed group posing a limited direct military threat to Israel. The escalating Israeli attacks have threatened to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Escalating Attacks On December 26, Israel said it conducted air strikes on the main airport in Sanaa as well as power stations and "military infrastructure" at several Yemeni ports. The head of the World Health Organization narrowly escaped death in the Israeli strikes on the airport that killed at least six people. Israel's allies, including the United States and Britain, have also carried out strikes in Yemen. The U.S. military said that it carried out air strikes against Huthi targets in Sanaa and along the Yemeni coast on December 30 and 31, including a "command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon production and storage facilities." The Huthis have fired on U.S. naval forces and attacked international shipping in the Red Sea, disrupting a key global trade route. The Israeli strikes came amid almost daily missile and drone attacks by the Huthis on Israel. Most of the attacks have been intercepted by Israel's air defenses and have caused little material damage. But they have triggered constant air raid sirens in many parts of Israel and disrupted everyday life. The Huthis launched their attacks on Israel and international shipping in late 2023. It came soon after Israel began its devastating war in the Gaza Strip. The rebels have vowed to continue their attacks until a cease-fire is reached in the Palestinian enclave. Farzan Sabet, a senior research associate at the Geneva Graduate Institute, said Israel is largely operating against the Huthis in the dark. Israeli attacks, he said, have mainly targeted "civilian and strategic infrastructure rather than the military assets." Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence in Yemen, where two-thirds of the population of some 35 million people need humanitarian assistance. "We, the people, are paying for it, not the Huthis," said Mustapha Noman, a former Yemeni deputy foreign minister. "This helps them." Iran's Trusted Allies The Huthis are part of Iran's so-called axis of resistance, its loose network of proxies and militant groups against archfoe Israel. Israel has severely weakened the axis over the past year. Israel's ground invasion and devastating air campaign in Lebanon decimated the military capabilities of Hezbollah, an armed group and political party in Lebanon. Israel's ongoing war in the Gaza Strip has devastated the Palestinian territory and diminished the fighting power of Hamas. Meanwhile, in early December, longtime Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, another member of the axis and a key ally of Iran, was ousted from power by Islamist rebels. That has heightened the importance of the Huthis for Iran. The rebels are armed with highly capable ballistic missiles and are the least affected by the Israeli strikes. "Without the Huthis, Israel would likely shift its full focus towards targeting and weakening Iran directly," said Nagi. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/yemen-israel-houthis-huthis- iran/33262520.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 Austrian President Gives Mandate to Right-Wing FPO Party to Launch Coalition Talks Sputnik News 20250106 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - 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. "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 People's 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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Guinea's Democratic Transition US Department of State Press Statement Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson January 6, 2025 The United States is concerned that Guinea has not met its January 1, 2025 target date to launch its democratic transition and calls on the Guinean government to undertake a transparent and inclusive process that engages all Guineans. Transparency and inclusivity are fundamental to a transition to civilian rule that is credible, legitimate, and sustainable. We urge the transition government to announce and enact clear timelines and concrete steps for the constitutional referendum and democratic elections. It is vital that all parts of society, including civil society organizations, political parties, media organizations and the broader public, are actively involved in shaping Guinea's future and allowed to fully participate in the referendum and electoral process. The United States remains committed to supporting the Guinean people in their pursuit of a stable and democratic future. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address "We are doing whatever it takes to open a door that will rekindle hopes for peace in Gaza" Presidency Of The Republic Of Turkey 06.01.2025 Delivering remarks following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting, President Erdogan said: "With the Red Crescent (Kzlay), AFAD, NGOs, and charities, we have been endeavoring in a spirit of full mobilization to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan people. We have also intensified our diplomatic efforts to get the international community to put increased pressure on the Israeli government. We are doing whatever it takes to open a door that will rekindle hopes for peace in Gaza." President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a press conference following the Presidential Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Complex. "WE HAVE BEEN EXPLORING ALL AVENUES SINCE DAY ONE TO STOP THE BLOODSHED AND MASSACRES IN PALESTINE" President Erdogan said: "We left behind a year marked by turmoil and upheavals within the context of regional developments, and welcomed 2025 with new expectations and great hopes. I pray to Allah that the new year may lead to auspicious developments for all people in our country and region as well as across the world. I hope that the year 2025 will bring ceasefire, peace, serenity and liberation particularly to our brothers and sisters in Gaza, who have been enduring the most atrocious genocide of the last century right before the eyes of the whole world." Stressing that Turkiye has been exploring all avenues since day one to stop the bloodshed and massacres in Palestine, President Erdogan stated: "With the Red Crescent (Kzlay), AFAD, NGOs, and charities, we have been endeavoring in a spirit of full mobilization to alleviate the suffering of the Gazan people. We have also intensified our diplomatic efforts to get the international community to put increased pressure on the Israeli government. We are doing whatever it takes to open a door that will rekindle hopes for peace in Gaza. We will maintain our efforts until we get results." President Erdogan continued his remarks as follows: "Just as faith and patience have prevailed in Syria after 61 years of Baath oppression and 13 years of massacre, the sun of justice will also defeat the darkness of oppression in Palestine. An independent, sovereign, and territorially integral State of Palestine with East al-Quds as its capital will eventually be established based on the 1967 borders." "YOU MUST ALWAYS BE PREPARED FOR WAR IF YOU WANT PEACE AND LIBERATION" President Erdogan said: "Turkiye is located at the heart of three continents, in a geography of great strategic importance where global power struggles never stop. The first condition of staying alive in such a geography is to have deterrence. Being right is not enough here, but you also have to be strong to defend your rights. Even though romantics and the opposition in our country do not understand it, in this geography your strength at the table derives from the strength of your arm. We have repeatedly experienced and witnessed this fact throughout our thousand-year-old history in these territories. Whenever we stumbled, our adversaries rushed to taste our blood. We never have and never will forget which states queued up to tear a slice of flesh from our body whenever we fell sick. The Treaty of Sevres is engraved in our memory as a testament to what might befall us if we get weak. With the National Struggle, we not only torn up the Sevres, but also swore not to let our country experience such a trauma ever again. Since 2002, our primary goal has been to ensure that our nation never faces a threat to its perpetuity. This is what motivates us in many of the steps we have taken both at home and abroad." President Erdogan stated: "Likewise, we have been guided for 22 years by our ancestors' wisdom-filled words, 'be prepared for war if you want peace'. You must always be prepared for war if you want peace and liberation. Our investments in the defense industry are not for preparing for war; they are for preserving and defending peace, independence, and the future. We highlight at every opportunity our policy that Turkiye is a source of security and confidence for its friends. We, however, have also more than enough strength to break the dirty hands that infringe upon our homeland, no matter whom they belong to." "THE EPIC REVOLUTION IN SYRIA HAS USHERED IN A NEW ERA FOR OUR REGION" "The epic revolution in our neighbor Syria has ushered in a new era both for this country and our region. We see that the new Syrian administration has been working with determination to re-build Syria based on the country's territorial integrity and unity. Our sincere expectation, desire and policy are also in this direction. We will not tolerate the disintegration of Syria or the disruption of its unitary structure under any guise. If we see a risk in this matter, we will take the necessary steps swiftly. Those attempting to take advantage of the conflicts and the DAESH threat in Syria in pursuit of their aspirations have faced the reality of our region. This reality is that there is no place for terror in the future of our region. The only fate awaiting those who choose terrorism and violence is to be buried in the ground with their weapons. I am saying it openly: no power can stand in the way of this reality. Turkiye has repeatedly shown that it has an uncompromising will to protect its perpetuity and security. If it comes to that point, we may come again suddenly one night. We have more than enough strength, capacity, and capability to do so," President Erdogan added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We call on the Sudanese authorities to fully cooperate with humanitarian response: UK statement at the UN Security Council Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the protection of civilians in Sudan. 6 January 2025 First, the United Kingdom expresses its alarm at the latest IPC report confirming that famine is rapidly spreading in Sudan. As we've heard, children are acutely malnourished, preventable disease is spreading and basic services collapsing. On current projections, over 630,000 people face famine by May 2025. Urgent action is needed now or more lives will be lost. We are concerned that the Sudanese authorities have halted their participation in the IPC system in response to this report. Continuing to deny the food insecurity spreading across Sudan will only exacerbate suffering. We call on the authorities to fully cooperate with the humanitarian response. Second, we reiterate our support for bold international action, including by the UN, to tackle the humanitarian crisis. In November, the UK doubled its aid commitment to Sudan and the region to almost $140m. We call on the international community to step up support to both the UN and Sudanese local responders on the front line. Third, President, we know that these devastating IPC figures are driven by the ongoing conflict and poor humanitarian access. It is within the power of the warring parties to prevent a deepening of this man-made crisis. We welcome the Sudanese Armed Forces agreement to establish humanitarian supply hubs and extend permissions for the Adre crossing, which should be sustained. But humanitarian access needs to be expanded to all civilians in need. This includes enabling other access routes, including through South Sudan and cross-line. We also encourage the authorising of further humanitarian hubs, including in areas held by the Rapid Support Forces. We urge both sides to lift all bureaucratic impediments and to put in place necessary safety guarantees for aid workers. And we fully condemn the killing of three WFP staff members in December and call for a thorough investigation. President, to conclude, with excess deaths potentially reaching into the millions, the latest IPC warning should be a rallying call for action to end this conflict now and to scale up humanitarian support. In 2025, this Council and the international community must work together to bring an end to this dark chapter for Sudan and to forge a pathway towards lasting peace. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Expeditionary Force activates UK-led reaction system to track threats to undersea infrastructure and monitor Russian shadow fleet Joint Expeditionary Force partners and NATO will be alerted by the system of any ships deemed a risk to key areas of interest 6 January 2025 The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) has activated an advanced UK-led reaction system to track potential threats to undersea infrastructure and monitor the Russian shadow fleet, following reported damage to a major undersea cable in the Baltic Sea. The 10-nation strong Joint Expeditionary Force, of which the UK is the framework nation, has also released a statement expressing concern at the damage caused to Estlink2 and highlighting the Alliance's commitment to working together to safeguard shared interests. The operation, activated last week and named Nordic Warden, harnesses AI to assess data from a range of sources, including the Automatic Identification System (AIS) ships use to broadcast their position, to calculate the risk posed by each vessel entering areas of interest. The JEF action reinforces existing and planned NATO responses. Specific vessels identified as being part of Russia's shadow fleet have been registered into 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 immediately send out a warning, which will be shared with JEF participant nations as well as NATO Allies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer 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 and deliver on our Plan for Change. Nordic Warden was activated last week under JEF protocols, which provide a series of options to the Alliance that can be activated in order to protect against potential threats. The initiative highlights how the JEF is using innovative technologies to boost collective European security, while supporting and complementing NATO's own operations. It comes following reported damage on Christmas Day to the Estlink2 undersea cable in the Baltic, which authorities in Finland suggest may have been caused by a tanker which forms part of Russia's shadow fleet of vessels it uses to attempt to bypass international sanctions. Defence Secretary John Healey MP 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. 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. 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. 22 areas of interest - including parts of the English Channel, North Sea, Kattegat, and Baltic Sea, are currently being monitored from the JEF's operational headquarters in Northwood, where personnel from all JEF nations work side by side. Nordic Warden was first trialled during the summer of 2024 and again during the JEF's Exercise Joint Protector, which saw more than 300 UK personnel deploy to Latvia to demonstrate the ability of the UK to deploy its operational headquarters for JEF abroad at short notice. The UK has led international efforts through a global alliance to disrupt the shadow fleet. As part of the initiative launched by the Prime Minister at the European Political Community last year, the UK has sanctioned 93 oil tankers which Putin has been using to soften the blow of sanctions and bankroll his illegal war in Ukraine. Today's announcement complements last month's agreement between the UK, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Finland and Estonia to request proof of insurance from suspected shadow vessels as they pass along the Baltic route. Commenting on the reported Estlink2 damage, the joint statement from Joint Expeditionary Force 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 Estlink-2 power cable incident. We remain committed to supporting Participant Nations, NATO, and Allies in safeguarding our shared interests and regional stability. Keeping the country safe is the Government's first priority, and an integral part of its Plan for Change. The work of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, and Nordic Warden will help protect against threats. The Joint Expeditionary Force is comprised of 10 like-minded nations, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden and the UK as the Framework Nation. The JEF by design is a high readiness, adaptable force which enhance the ability of the grouping to respond rapidly to threats, anywhere in the world. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza war: UN World Food Programme condemns Israeli attack on aid convoy 6 January 2025 - Israeli airstrikes continued across Gaza overnight into Monday, while the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reported that one of its aid convoys in the war-shattered enclave was targeted by Israeli fire on Sunday. The WFP issued a statement on Monday condemning the attack insisting that its vehicles had been "clearly marked". "At least 16 bullets" struck the convoy of three vehicles carrying eight staff members which came under fire near Wadi Gaza checkpoint. "Thankfully, no staff members were injured in this terrifying encounter," the agency added. All necessary clearances had been obtained from the Israeli authorities and WFP said that it was "just the latest example of the complex and dangerous working environment" confronting its teams. Warehouse strike The development comes amid reports that a missile struck a flour distribution warehouse in central Gaza run by a UN aid partner at the weekend, leaving three humanitarian workers seriously injured. UN agency teams in the vicinity of the storage depot described hearing people screaming after the strike. They also reported looting and gunfire after Sunday's blast at the MA'AN Development Center facility. It has been 15 months since war erupted in Gaza, prompted by Hamas-led terror attacks on Israel that left some 1,200 dead in October 2023 and more than 250 people taken hostage. Reported ceasefire talks between Palestinian officials and Israel have yet to result in an agreement to halt the violence or release those captured. To date, Israeli bombardment from the air, land and sea continues to be reported across the Gaza Strip, where a harsh winter has set in. Eight babies are reported to have died from hypothermia and more than 45,300 Palestinians have been killed and over 107,700 injured; one in five of that number has sustained life-changing injuries since 7 October 2023, according to the authorities. Tensions rise in Lebanon In Lebanon, the UN peacekeeping force there has urged all sides to the conflict to step back from any move that could jeopardize their fragile ceasefire, after Israel Defense Forces (IDF's) "deliberate and direct destruction" of a line of withdrawal marker in southern Lebanon. In a statement condemning the move at the weekend, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) described how peacekeepers observed an IDF bulldozer "destroying a blue barrel marking the line of withdrawal between Lebanon and Israel in Labbouneh, as well as an observation tower belonging to the Lebanese Armed Forces immediately beside a UNIFIL position there". The development marks "a flagrant violation of resolution 1701 and international law", the UN Mission insisted, in reference to the Security Council resolution that was adopted following the 2006 war in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, seeking to end their conflict. Dangerous moves In recent days, UNIFIL has also reported ongoing IDF operations north of the UN-patrolled Blue Line, despite a 60-day ceasefire agreement signed on 27 November 2024 by the Governments of Israel and Lebanon. Specifically, it calls for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon and for Hezbollah to end its armed presence there, within the same timeframe. The agreement was designed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah that erupted once again in October 2023, following the start of the war in Gaza. In a situation update, UN aid agencies reported that complex humanitarian needs persist in Lebanon. According to the UN migration agency, IOM, more than 860,000 people uprooted within Lebanon by the recent conflict have now returned to their former communities, but nearly 124,000 remain displaced. Since 8 December when the Assad regime collapsed, some 90,000 people have also arrived in Lebanon from Syria - both Lebanese and Syrian nationals - to face the "widespread destruction of homes and critical infrastructure, disruption in essential services, explosive ordnance risks, limited livelihoods and depleted coping mechanisms", warned the UN refugee agency, UNHCR. Those who remained in conflict-affected areas throughout the escalation of hostilities and "face dire conditions as essential services have been severely limited for a prolonged period", the UN agency said, in a call for "immediate humanitarian relief and long-term recovery support". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Noting Famine Conditions Present in Sudan, Senior Humanitarian Official, Briefing Security Council, Stresses Need for Immediate Cessation of Hostilities Meetings Coverage Security Council 9831st Meeting (AM) SC/15960 6 January 2025 Hunger and starvation in Sudan are spreading because of decisions made each day to continue the conflict, irrespective of civilian cost, United Nations aid officials told the Security Council today, as they urged members to push for a ceasefire and the lifting of restrictions impeding humanitarian work. "This is a man-made crisis," Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, stressed in her briefing to the 15-member organ. The latest from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) is "shocking, but sadly, not surprising", she continued. Analysis indicates that famine conditions are now present in five areas, including Zamzam, Al Salam and Abu Shouk internally displaced persons camps, and in the Western Nuba Mountains. The findings project that five additional locations all in North Darfur will be affected between now and May, with risk of famine in 17 other areas. More than 11.5 million people have been internally displaced in Sudan since fighting erupted in 2023, while more than 3.2 million others have fled to neighbouring countries. Humanitarian workers are risking their lives to carry out their duties. Just last month, three World Food Programme (WFP) workers were killed by an air strike on their compound in Yabus, in Blue Nile State. Despite the increasing danger, there has been some progress. On 25 December 2024, a convoy of 28 trucks arrived in Khartoum with food, nutrition supplies and other assistance the largest UN convoy to reach the capital since the beginning of the crisis and following many weeks of negotiations. But, inside some areas of Darfur, additional restrictions are being imposed on the work of humanitarian organizations. New inspection procedures for trucks are creating further bottlenecks and visas for humanitarian personnel are not being granted swiftly enough. "We need your help to press the parties to comply with international humanitarian law," she stressed, urging for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for "real and inclusive" steps towards lasting peace that the people of Sudan "so desperately need". All routes via roads and air across conflict lines and borders must be open for relief supplies and humanitarian personnel. Funds are critically needed, as well. The 2025 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan will require a record $4.2 billion to support close to 21 million people. A further $1.8 billion is needed to support 5 million people in seven neighbouring countries. Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), also briefing the Council, recalled how, in August 2024, famine was classified in Zamzam camp in Sudan's North Darfur State. "It persists and it has expanded," she warned, stressing that famine conditions have spread to other sites in North Darfur and to the Western Nuba Mountains. "The risk of famine and its spread has been on our collective conscience since August, and now it is here, not only with people dying from hunger, but also with a breakdown of health systems, livelihoods and social structures," she went on to say. Sustained violence and economic turmoil have disrupted markets and driven prices of staple goods to unaffordable levels. Nearly two thirds of the Sudanese people depend on agriculture. Production loss of vital crops, such as sorghum, millet and wheat, represent an economic hit estimated into the billions of dollars. "We need your political leverage to end hostilities and to bring relief to the people of Sudan," she added, emphasizing that, in 2025, FAO plans to reach over 14 million people with the seeds, livestock feed and fishing supplies they need to produce their own nutritious food. In the ensuing discussion, Council members stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and urged conflicting parties to respect international humanitarian law and lift roadblocks for humanitarian organizations to be able to carry out their life-saving work. Many of them also recalled a Sudan that had once been an agriculturally rich country, with Guyana's delegate, speaking also for Slovenia, the Council's informal co-focal points on conflict and hunger, expressing alarm that the displacement of farming communities and attacks on agricultural sites have "turned a once-thriving country the breadbasket of its region into the world's largest hunger crisis". "Even during the harvest season, when food should be abundant, millions are starving" in Sudan, Slovenia's delegate added. In the numbers and statistics that detail the hunger and famine "lies the stark reality of a starving child, a new mother unable to nourish her newborn, older persons and persons with disabilities left without access to essential services", he added. The Council must call on the conflicting parties to lift bureaucratic impediments and excessive levels of paperwork that continue to hinder aid efforts. "It is within the power of the warring parties to prevent a further deepening of this man-made crisis," underscored the representative from the United Kingdom. Welcoming the Sudanese Armed Forces' agreement to establish humanitarian supply hubs and extend permissions for the Adre crossing, he called for more humanitarian hubs to be authorized, including in areas held by the Rapid Support Forces. Greece's delegate also stressed that "safe and sustained access to famine-stricken areas must be guaranteed", calling for the immediate removal of administrative and security barriers hindering aid operations. Underlining the Council's responsibility to act, the representative of Denmark stressed: "We cannot sit idly by as civilians starve before our eyes." "The cessation of hostilities is the only action that can mitigate the risk of famine spreading further in Sudan and contain the high levels of acute food insecurity," Sierra Leone's delegate said, speaking also on behalf of Algeria, Guyana and Somalia. Urging warring parties to fully adhere to their commitments under the Jeddah Declaration, he further stressed that a lasting solution to the conflict in Sudan also requires an end to foreign interference and the support provided by external actors to the warring parties. It is indeed essential to maintain Sudan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, added Egypt's delegate, speaking under Security Council Rule 37. He warned that interfering in Sudan's internal affairs "would only deepen the current conflict". The representative of the United States expressed concern about the Sudanese authorities' decision to suspend their collaboration with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification system. Refusal to cooperate will only disrupt donor efforts and further damage Sudan's credibility, she stressed. "Both military factions must facilitate the establishment of humanitarian hubs to support the flow of aid and cease all diversions and theft of it," she said, expressing regret that the Council's efforts to adopt a resolution calling for a ceasefire fell apart because of the Russian Federation's veto. Several Council members, including the representative of the Russian Federation, questioned the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Famine Review Committee's findings, adding that the issue of hunger in Sudan is politicized and exploited to exert political pressure. Sudan is not experiencing severe famine. There is only a risk of famine in five small areas in the country four of which are refugee camps. "The conclusions of the report look strange," he said, citing its data as "purely speculative". Echoing similar sentiments, Pakistan's delegate noted that Sudan's Government has questioned the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report, including its malnutrition data and assessment, as well as its ability to collect data from conflict zones. "These views need to be taken into account," he went on to say. Similarly, China's representative said that the relevant organization should ensure that its findings reflect the "actual situation with a view to solving the problem in a more targeted manner". The representative of France pushed back, stressing that, because of the ongoing conflict, over half of the Sudanese population is being exposed to acute food insecurity. It is therefore vital for the parties to the conflict to allow rapid, safe, comprehensive and unfettered humanitarian access. Panama's representative also said: "We are surprised by the disproportionate indifference by which this conflict has been met." Urging the Sudanese authorities to respect the findings of the Famine Review Committee, the delegate of the Republic of Korea added: "It is difficult to understand the logic of calling on the international community to massively increase its humanitarian assistance to Sudan while, at the same time, denying the existence of famine." "The truth is not that Sudan suffers a famine," said Khartoum's delegate. "Our difference with the IPC report is not just academic controversy, but a difference on the statistics and data collected," he added, expressing concern over the latest report's results and methodology. These include the fact that field teams cannot reach militia-controlled areas preventing direct contact with the affected population. He rejected the report and its classification of famine in Sudan "not because we want to hide famine, but because the methodology lacked accuracy and transparency and suffered from inadequacies in analysing the results". Only 1 per cent of the population in Sudan can be classified as affected by famine. He went on to say that the Government has restored stability in several areas, opened land and aerial routes and issued visas and permits to humanitarian personnel. "The reasons for the humanitarian crisis are the grave violations by the Rapid Support Forces," he underscored, urging the Council to impose sanctions on the group. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US-Somali operation kills 10 al-Shabab militants By Harun Maruf January 06, 2025 The Somali government said 10 al-Shabab militants were killed in an operation conducted in collaboration with the United States military. In a statement, Somalia's 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-Shabaab's 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuela's opposition leader Gonzalez meets with Biden By VOA News January 06, 2025 Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez who claims he won last year's 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 Venezuela's 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 Venezuela's 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 Maduro's claims to victory, which have been recognized by Venezuela's 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 Gonzalez's capture. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 06 January 2025 - Day 1048 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 Ukrainian defenders continue to decisively thwart the Russian enemy's attempts to advance deep into Ukrainian territory, giving him an effective fire effect, exhaustion throughout the frontline. Since the beginning of this day, there have been 199 combat clashes. Russian zagarbniki launched 48 air strikes using 57 cab. In addition, the Russians have engaged 837 kamikaze drones and carried out more than four thousand shells on the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. In the Kharkiv direction, Ukrainian troops repelled three Russian attacks in the area of vovcans ka. KABAMA air strikes were carried out in the areas of settlements of Orishanka, Zolochiv and Uda, NARAMA struck the Graniv of Kharkiv region. In the Kupyans komu direction, the Russian opponent carried out three attacks of the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of synkivka, petropavlivka and zagrizovy. Ukrainian defenders repelled all attacks. Artilne suffered an air strike by the CAB. In the Lyman direction during the day Russian zagarbniki 13 times attacked the positions of ukrainians near hope, pershotravnevogo, terniv, yampolivka, zarichnogo and makiivka. Currently, two fights are being sharpened. In the Sivers komu direction throughout the day, Russian forces made two attempts to attack the position of Ukrainian units in the area of Bilogorivka. Never been successful. At the same time, dropped 12 air bombs on siversk. In the Kramatorsky direction, four combat clashes near the Chasovoye Yar, White Mountain and in the direction of Stupochok, all attacks have been stopped. Russian forces attacked Stupocki with uncontrolled aviation missiles. In the Toretsky direction, Russians attacked the positions of Defense Forces eight times. The main efforts of the attack were concentrated near Sherbinivka and Toretsk. At the moment, one confrontation continues. The Russian opponent caused aviation strikes of kabama in the areas of katerinivka, toretsk, oleksandr-kalinovogo and oleksandr -sultynogo. Since the beginning of this day, in the Pokrovsky direction, Russian zagarbnytsky units 40 times tried to break through Ukrainian defense near the settlements of Mirolyubivka, Rumin, Suhiy Yar, Pishcni, Kotline, Ukrainka, Yasenove, Novoelizavetivka, Tarasivka, Elizabeth, Fox, Zelene, New Labor and Pokrovsk. There are 10 clashes so far. Oleksandropil, Tarasivka and Hrodivka were hit by airstrikes in the direction. The Russian enemy suffers significant losses - today in this direction Ukrainian soldiers were zneskozeno 375 Russian occupiers, 185 of them - irrevocable. Three vehicles, BPLA control antenna, three motorcycles, three buggies, three artillery systems, two vehicles and two Russian cannons were also destroyed. In the kurakhivs .komu direction the Russian enemy is also active-25 times attacked Ukrainian positions near Slovaanka, Silver, Andriyivka, Petropavlivka, Kurakhovogo and Dachnogo, two fights continue. In the area of andriyivka, the enemy dropped two kab. In the vremivs komu direction, the Russian zagarbniki carried out 13 offensive actions near konstantinopol, amber, dachny and konstantinopol s kogo. Two clashes are still going on. Russian forces caused air strikes in the areas of settlements Novopil, Oleksiyivka, Velika Novosilka and Konstantinopil. In the Orihivs komu direction, Ukrainian troops repelled one Russian attack near Novodanilivka. Stepnogirsk enemy attacked narami. In the pridniprovsk direction, Russian forces once unsuccessfully attacked the positions of Ukrainian troops. In the Kursk region Ukrainian defenders repelled 44 Russian attacks, another 42 confrontations continue so far. In other directions, the situation has not changed significantly. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kharkov direction, units of the Sever Group of Forces defeated units of two territorial defence brigades close to Volchansk and Liptsy (Kharkov region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. One ammunition depot was wiped out. The Zapad Group of Forces' units improved the situation along the front line, inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of three mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two territorial defence brigades, and one national guard brigade close to Druzhelyubovka, Podoly, Glushkovka, Kovsharovka, Dvurechnaya, Zapadnoye, Ivanovka (Kharkov region), Yampolovka, and Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Three counter-attacks launched by AFU assault detachments were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 550 troops, two U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, one Italian-made Iveco armoured fighting vehicle, one Kozak armoured fighting vehicle, 12 motor vehicles, one UK-made 155-mm Braveheart self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, and one U.S.-made 105-mm M101 gun. One Mirazh and one Kvertus electronic warfare stations and two counter-battery stations were eliminated. The Yug Group of Forces' units have liberated Kurakhovo (Donetsk People's Republic). Strikes were delivered at formations of two mechanised brigades, two motorised infantry brigades, one mountain assault brigade of the AFU near Piskunovka, Alekseyevo-Druzkovka, Minkovka, Chasov Yar, Verolyubovka, and Yantarnoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Three counter-attacks launched by the enemy's assault detachments were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 265 troops, one German-made Leopard tank, two U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, one Kozak armoured fighting vehicle, one pickup truck, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, three 152-mm Msta-B howitzers, one 152-mm D-20 gun, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and three 122-mm D-30 howitzers. As a result of decisive actions of the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, Dachenskoye (Donetsk People's Republic) was liberated. Strikes were delivered at manpower and hardware of five mechanised brigades, one jaeger brigade, one air assault brigade, two airmobile brigades of the AFU, one marine brigade, one territorial defence brigade, one assault brigade of the National Police of Ukraine near Dzerzhinsk, Shcherbinovka, Dimitrov, Sribnoye, Andreyevka, Novovasilevka, Ukrainka, Novoaleksandrovka, and Shevchenko (Donetsk People's Republic). Fourteen AFU counter-attacks were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 535 troops, four tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, one French-made VAB armoured personnel carrier, five armoured fighting vehicles, to include one U.S.-made HMMWV and one U.S.-made MaxxPro armoured fighting vehicles, ten motor vehicles, one Grad MLRS combat vehicle, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, two 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, and two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems. Units of the Vostok Group of Forces advanced into the depths of the enemy's defence, defeated formations of one mechanised brigade of the AFU and two territorial defence brigades near Bogatyr, Novy Komar, Neskuchnoye (Donetsk People's Republic), and Temirovka (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 170 troops, four motor vehicles, one 155-mm Bogdana self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one 152-mm Giatsint-S gun, one 152-mm D-20 gun, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. One ammunition depot was wiped out. The Dnepr Group of Forces' units have engaged manpower and hardware of one mechanised brigade, two coastal defence brigades of the AFU, one national guard brigade close to Orekhov, Novoandreyevka (Zaporozhye region), Ponyatovka, Sadovoye (Kherson region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 80 troops, six motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. Three ammunition depots have been wiped out. Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged the infrastructure of military airfields, ammunition depots, workshops, and launch sites of UAVs, manpower clusters and military hardware of the enemy and foreign mercenaries in 153 areas. Air defence systems shot down one French-made Hammer guided aerial bomb, 12 U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, and 115 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 652 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 39,568 unmanned aerial vehicles, 590 anti-aircraft missile systems, 20,258 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,507 MLRS combat vehicles, 20,239 field artillery guns and mortars, and 29,919 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised. *** Kiev regime does not stop provocations create a threat of a man-made disaster at the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant. On 5 January, the AFU made another attempt to attack the Zaporozhye NPP and Energodar (Zaporozhye region) by eight fixed-wing UAVs. Air defence systems shot down all unmanned aerial vehicles. When one of the downed drones fell, it exploded and caught fire on the roof of the Zaporozhye NPP training centre. There were no casualties or destruction at the station. The radiation situation is normal. The personnel of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant continue to operate in a normal mode. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation also reported that in the course of active offensive operations, the Yug Group of Forces' units completely liberated Kurakhovo the largest settlement in the south-western part of Donbass. In ten years, the Kiev regime has turned it into a powerful fortified area with a developed network of pillboxes and underground communications. It is secured by a reservoir to the north, which significantly limited the manoeuvring capabilities of the Russian assault units. To defend the populated area, the enemy has pulled large forces, to include nationalists and foreign mercenaries' detachments, strengthening them with artillery and tanks. These includes units of elite 79th air assault brigade and 46th airmobile brigade as well as 5th heavy brigade, 33rd and 157th mechanised brigades. In total, the AFU command has concentrated 26 battalions with a total strength of over 15,000 troops to hold Kurakhovo. As a result of professional actions of the Russian troops during the liberation of Kurakhovo, the enemy lost 80 per cent of its personnel (over 12,000 troops) and about 3,000 weapons and military hardware, to include 40 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles. During the two months of combat operations near Kurakhovo, the daily losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on average amounted to 150180 servicemen killed and wounded. Capturing this important logistics settlement has significantly complicated the logistics support of the AFU in Donetsk direction, depriving the Kiev regime of the ability of shelling peaceful residents of Donetsk, the capital of the Donetsk People's Republic, with artillery systems. After the capture of Kurakhovo, the Russian troops reached an operations space. This will increase the pace of liberation of the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic. Servicemen of 5th and 110th motorised rifle brigades particularly distinguished themselves, showing courage and heroism during the liberation of Kurakhovo. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address HMAS Brisbane returns home after milestone deployment Issued by Defence Media 6 January 2025 Around 200 officers and sailors from HMAS Brisbane returned to Sydney after a five-month deployment, which included the successful launch of Australia's first-ever Tomahawk cruise missile off the US coast. The deployment also included joint exercises with the US Navy and scheduled maintenance at the US Naval Base in San Diego, overall marking a significant milestone in strengthening the Australian Defence Force's capabilities. Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Chris Smith, AM, CSM, RAN said the activity was a demonstration of Australia's commitment to allies in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region. "Australia is now one of only three nations alongside the United States and United Kingdom to acquire, and fire, Tomahawk cruise missiles," Rear Admiral Smith said. "The achievements by HMAS Brisbane's personnel has helped deliver a significantly advanced long-range missile capability for the Australian Defence Force." Brisbane sailed over 17,000 nautical miles (32,000 km) since departing Sydney in August 2024. The deployment included familiarisation with US Naval maintenance processes, warfare training and valuable knowledge exchange in advanced technologies shared by the two nations. Commanding Officer, HMAS Brisbane, Commander Bernard Dobson, CSM, RAN said the ship's achievements would not have been possible without the support of family and friends. "It is a significant challenge to be away from home for months at a time and to miss the Christmas holidays with family," Commander Dobson said. "I couldn't be prouder of the resilience and professionalism of the men and women in Brisbane in delivering a game-changing military capability for Australia." Brisbane is one of three Australian-built Hobart Class Destroyers, and is designed to provide air defence against missiles and aircraft to protect ships, land forces, and coastal infrastructure, as well as undertake anti-submarine, anti-surface and long-range strike warfare missions. Now home, Brisbane's crew will enjoy well-earned respite before resuming their operational schedule. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China: Statement by the Spokesperson on the appeal verdict of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng European External Action Service (EEAS) 06.01.2025 EEAS Press Team The European Union deeply regrets the decision to uphold the conviction of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng announced today (6 January 2025) by the Suzhou Intermediate People's Court. Yu Wensheng was sentenced to three years imprisonment for "inciting subversion of state power" in October 2024. The EU has consistently expressed its concern about the case of Yu Wensheng and his wife Xu Yan, who was sentenced to one year and nine months imprisonment on similar charges. Both were detained on 13 April 2023 while en route to a meeting at the EU Delegation in Beijing. Xu Yan is scheduled for release on 13 January 2025, upon completion of her sentence. The EU urges the Chinese authorities to ensure her timely release and to guarantee her safety and well-being thereafter. The EU reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Yu Wensheng, as well as all other detained and convicted human rights defenders in China. The EU will continue to monitor the situation closely and engage with Chinese authorities to advocate for the respect of human rights and the rule of law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA Army carries out drills to test operational capacity in high-altitude and cold environment conditions Global Times By Global Times Published: Jan 06, 2025 06:59 PM The Chinese People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Army has carried out joint drills to evaluate annual combat readiness in high-altitude and cold environment conditions in the Karakoram Mountains at the start of the new year, featuring drones, tanks and infantry fighting vehicles. According to a China Central Television (CCTV) report on Monday, a unit of the Xinjiang Military Command has been conducting reconnaissance tactical drills in an unfamiliar high-altitude area. Multiple forces of reconnaissance, armored and firepower units participated with a range of equipment to test their operational capacity. In the Karakoram Mountains during the ongoing drills, the reconnaissance unit swiftly maneuvered to the designated area and established a reconnaissance position upon after receiving intelligence from a higher command. Meanwhile, the aerial reconnaissance unit deployed drones to conduct real-time battlefield monitoring. The command post quickly analyzed the enemy situation and issued combat orders, with all operational units immediately responding. The armored unit swiftly assembled, mobilized their vehicles, and launched an assault on the forward positions. The artillery unit adjusted firing parameters as instructed, preparing for fire support. According to a participant of the exercise, due to rapidly changing battlefield conditions, the reconnaissance unit must be stealthy, efficient and swift when carrying out missions, which requires the unit not only to possess strong military skills but also to be familiar with the terrain and topography of the battlefield. The CCTV report shows that as the drills continued, the reconnaissance unit advanced the frontline rapidly, using radar systems, drones and telescopes to conduct comprehensive detection of the enemy's forward positions. After obtaining information on enemy troops' deployments and firepower configurations, an assault group formed by the armored unit launched successive charges. Under the cover of tanks, troops carried by infantry fighting vehicles quickly dismounted and advanced toward the target area, successfully seizing the position. In accordance with the operational requirements for high-altitude and cold regions, the troops have researched system-based reconnaissance, said Zhou Hongxin from the Xinjiang Military Command. Through targeted enhancement and gap-filling trainings, and repeated rounds of combat drills, each combat unit could spot their shortcomings, which compels PLA soldiers and officers to address and overcome deficiencies, thereby enhancing overall ability. This year's military drills officially began on January 2 with all military troops carrying out exercises throughout the country, from the Gobi Desert, the coastal frontlines, the snow-covered plateaus to the dense mountain forests. On Thursday, drills of a destroyer detachment from the navy of the PLA Southern Theater Command began in full swing. A formation of advanced destroyers and frigates cast off and set sail for designated waters to conduct a series of high-intensity, combat-oriented drills, according to CCTV. Meanwhile, an air force aviation brigade conducted its first training flight at the beginning of the new year, integrating aerial tactical competitions into their drills. Pilots engaged in realistic combat scenarios, carrying out air combat confrontations, close-range air support, and air-to-ground attack drills across multiple training subjects. The training aims to comprehensively hone the pilots' combat skills in a simulated battlefield environment, CCTV reported. Song Xiaojun, a military affairs commentator, said the highlights and characteristics of different services in diversified drills can be summarized with three phrases - actual combat, high intensity and systematization. Song said that this year's New Year drills are related to deepening the reform of the joint operational system, which means that different military services and branches should find points of closer interdependence in future operations. Only in this way can they achieve the maximum effect of joint operations and, in turn, constrain the enemy's decision-making space to force them into difficult situations, CCTV reported. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Africa is not 'forgotten continent,' but 'source of vitality' and 'land of development': FM spokesperson on Wang Yi's Africa visit Global Times By Global Times Published: Jan 06, 2025 04:58 PM In response to a question regarding China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi's official visit to four African countries this week and China's view on the future development prospects of African nations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that Chinese foreign ministers have made Africa their first destination for visits at the beginning of a year for 35 consecutive years, reflecting the enduring and revitalized traditional friendship between China and Africa, as well as China's consistent commitment to friendly cooperation with the continent. Guo noted that China has always believed that Africa is not a "forgotten continent," but a "source of vitality" and a "land of development." Gou further pointed out that Africa contributes transformative power to global governance. Under the guiding of Pan-Africanism, African countries are accelerating their process of unity, self-reliance, and integrated development and revitalization, playing an increasingly important role in international affairs. Africa also provides significant momentum to the global economy. According to the African Development Bank Group, Africa's economic growth rate is expected to rise to 3.7 percent in 2024, surpassing the global average. Among the 20 fastest-growing economies worldwide, African nations will account for 10. As one of the cradles of human civilization, Africa is the youngest continent, with 70 percent of its population under the age of 30, brimming with energy and hope. Guo emphasized that, in the face of unprecedented global changes, the Global South represented by China and Africa, is thriving and profoundly shaping the course of world history. A growing and thriving Africa will undoubtedly make greater contributions to world peace and development. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese foreign ministry slams US 'small yard, high fence' strategy, vows to safeguard WTO-centered multilateral trading system Global Times By Global Times Published: Jan 06, 2025 04:08 PM China's Foreign Ministry on Monday slammed the US' "small yard, high fence" strategy, saying such a policy undermines global supply chains and damages the common and long-term interests of all countries and vowing to continue to safeguard the WTO-centered multilateral trading system. The comments were made in response to a media question which said this year marks the 30th anniversary of the WTO, and a recent report by US media Forbes warned that if threats of protectionism materialize, not only would the global trade system suffer, but the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism would also face serious challenges. Meanwhile, another New York Times' article discussed the sharp economic and diplomatic costs and concerns among US tech companies that the high fence might shut them out from the Chinese market. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun underscored the WTO's role as the core of the multilateral trading system. Over the past 30 years, the WTO has provided an open, stable, and predictable institutional environment, ensuring steady and orderly global trade, enhancing economic and trade cooperation among members, promoting the involvement of developing economies in economic globalization, and benefiting from it, Guo stated. "Free trade is an inevitable requirement for global economic development, with the fundamental goal of achieving mutual benefit and promoting common development. Engaging in protectionism and building 'small yard, high fence' significantly disrupts global supply chains and damages the common and long-term interests of all countries," the spokesperson said. Guo reiterated China's commitment to uphold the WTO's principles, saying that China will continue to uphold the spirit with which it joined the WTO, working together with the international community to uphold the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, and continuously advance the liberalization and facilitation of global trade and investment for the betterment of the world. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun's Regular Press Conference on January 6, 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: January 06, 2025 18:06 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 Ministry's 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 China's 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 Jinping's special envoy and Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress Hao Mingjin will attend President John Dramani Mahama's 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 what's China's view on the development prospect of African countries? Guo Jiakun: China is the world's 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 China's 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 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. 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 ROK's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the DPRK launched an intermediate-range ballistic missile towards the ROK's eastern waters. This is the second ballistic missile the DPRK fired since November last year. How does China see the launch? Guo Jiakun: China's 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 China's 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 India's 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 don't comment on the specific business deal between the US and Japanese companies. We've 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 WTO's 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 benefitial 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. What's China's 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 Yermekbayev's 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, Taiwan's 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: That's not a question about foreign affairs. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Wang Yi meets Namibian leaders, says tradition of Chinese foreign minister making Africa the first overseas visit never changing or wavering Global Times By Global Times Published: Jan 07, 2025 12:47 AM The Chinese Foreign Minister's first overseas visit each year is always to Africa, which is a fine tradition and a distinctive feature of China's diplomacy. This practice has remained consistent for 35 years, never changing or wavering, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during his visit to Namibia on Monday. During his visit to Namibia, Wang respectively met with Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba and President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday. During his meeting with Nandi-Ndaitwah, Wang said that the primary reason for making Africa the first stop is because China cherishes the enduring friendship between China and Africa. Whether in the glorious years of striving for national independence and liberation, or in the common journey of seeking mutual benefit and cooperation, China and Africa have always understood, trusted, supported, and helped each other, Wang added. By adhering to the tradition of making Africa the first overseas visit of the new year, China hopes to show the world that no matter what changes occur in the international and regional situation. China will always be the most trustworthy friend of our African brothers and sisters, always be the most reliable partner in the pursuit of development and revitalization for African countries, and always be the strongest support for Africa on the international stage, said Wang. We will continue to uphold this tradition, as the world increasingly needs enhanced cooperation between China and Africa, Wang said during his meeting with Mbumba, adding that the development of China and Africa symbolizes the ascent of the Global South and the fortification of the forces of justice. Strengthening unity and cooperation between China and Africa, and jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries, is in line with historical justice, the trend of the times, and also meets the common aspirations of the 2.8 billion people of China and Africa. Wang also said that China will continue to support Namibia in pursuing a development and revitalization path that suits its national conditions and appreciates Namibia's long-standing firm adherence to the one-China principle. China is willing to deepen political mutual trust with Namibia, enhance exchanges between parties and governance experience, increase ideological and conceptual alignment, and provide guidance and security for the development of bilateral relations, he added. China is willing to offer as much support as possible for Namibia's economic development, help Namibia transform its resource advantages into development advantages and benefits for its people, and work together to advance their respective modernization processes. Mbumba said that although the countries differ in size, Namibia and China have always maintained friendship, solidarity, and cooperation, as well as mutual respect and support. Namibia firmly upholds the One-China policy, supports China's efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity, and admires Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the development achievements made under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. Namibia is willing to strengthen inter-party cooperation with China and engage in exchanges on governance and administration experience, according to the Chinese foreign ministry website. Nandi-Ndaitwah said the Namibian and Chinese people have enjoyed a long-standing friendship. Namibia will, as always, work to consolidate and develop Namibia-China cooperation and remain steadfast in adhering to the One-China principle. Namibia is willing to actively implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, strengthen cooperation with China in areas such as trade, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and energy resources, bring opportunities for Namibia's economic and social development, and deliver benefits to the people of both countries. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea launches ballistic missile as US secretary of state visits South Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 8:12 AM North Korea has fired what appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan, as US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken pays a visit to South Korea. Pyongyang fired the unknown ballistic missile on Monday, shortly after Blinken met with South Korea's acting president Choi Sang-mok. During the meeting, Blinken emphasized his country's "unwavering" security commitment to South Korea and called for a strong defensive stance against North Korea's so-called provocations. The US had flown a long-range bomber near North Korea's airspace during trilateral military drills with Japan and South Korea in early November, drawing condemnation from North Korea. In response, North Korea fired seven short-range ballistic missiles a day before the US presidential election. During the same period, North Korea test-fired, according to its military, its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It also staged GPS jamming attacks on the South in late November, an operation that affected several ships and dozens of civilian aircraft. Blinken also warned of Pyongyang's deepening ties with Moscow. He claimed Russia intended to share space and satellite technology with North Korea in exchange for its support for the Ukraine war. North Korea and Russia have strengthened their military ties in recent years. A landmark defense pact signed by Pyongyang and Moscow in June came into force last month, with 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 various UN sanctions, and also severe embargoes from the US and its allies. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea fires a missile ahead of Trump inauguration The president-elect has picked an aide involved in planning summits with North Korea as a senior member of staff. By Taejun Kang for RFA 2025.01.06 TAIPEI, Taiwan -- North Korea fired a suspected mid-range ballistic missile over the sea off its east coast on Monday, said South Korea's military, two weeks before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The launch came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in the South Korean capital for talks with the acting president in the midst of weeks of political turmoil there. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff, or JCS, said the military had detected the launch, which originated in the Pyongyang area at around noon, and it flew around 1,100 kilometers (684 miles) before landing in the sea less than 10 minutes later. The JCS called the launch a "clear provocation" and said it was monitoring the situation and that it shared relevant information with the United States and Japan. Japan's Ministry of Defense also confirmed the launch and said it was thought the missile had already fallen into the sea. Addressing North Korea's development of missiles and nuclear weapons in violation of U.N. resolutions, and its hostility towards the United States and its allies including South Korea, is a top priority for all U.S. administrations. Blinken, in his talks in Seoul with Acting President Choi Sang-mok, stressed an "unwavering" U.S. security commitment to South Korea and said their alliance remained "more essential than ever." Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20, spearheaded an unprecedented diplomatic push on North Korea during his first term as president, meeting leader Kim Jong Un three times but making no progress on efforts to get him to abandon his nuclear and missile programs. Trump raised his engagement with North Korea during his election campaign and in a sign that he might have an eye on reviving the effort, he has picked an aide who was involved in planning the summits with Kim. William Beau Harrison will be an assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for operations, the Trump transition team said Saturday, noting Harrison's "critical" role in planning the meetings with Kim. "During President Trump's first term, Mr. Harrison served as the liaison between the operational elements of the Executive Office of the President and was charged with the coordination and execution of all presidential travel, including dozens of complex international visits," the team said. "He has participated in and led multiple U.S. delegations across the globe in countries such as North Korea, Iraq and Afghanistan and played a critical role in planning each of the historic summits with DPRK leader Kim Jong Un," the team added. DPRK, or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is the North's official name. More talks? Trump first met Kim in June 2018 in Singapore, then in Hanoi in February 2019, then at the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea in June 2019, where Trump became the first U.S. president to set foot on North Korean territory. Trump sought to curb North Korea's nuclear program, while Kim aimed to ease sanctions and gain international prestige but the effort brought no progress on denuclearization or any lasting improvement in relations. Last month, Trump named a former ambassador to Germany, Richard Grenell, as his presidential envoy for special missions that he said covered "some of the hottest spots" around the world, including North Korea. Trump has also named Alex Wong, who was engaged in working-level nuclear talks with Pyongyang during his first term, as his principal deputy national security adviser. During the election campaign Trump defended his relationship with North Korea saying that "getting along" with Kim was a "good thing," and suggested North Korea would not be "acting up" if he returned to the White House. Former Trump adviser Robert O'Brien told media in September that Trump might resume talks with North Korea if re-elected but questioned whether Kim would commit to denuclearization. But Kim had appeared to rule out the prospect of improving relations with the U.S. under incoming Trump, saying negotiations with the U.S. in the past had only confirmed its unwavering hostility. Kim did not refer to Trump by name but said that given U.S. policy towards North Korea, its only option was to achieve the "most powerful military capabilities," North Korean state media reported in November. Edited by Mike Firn. Update adds more information from JCS statement. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea Launches First Ballistic Missile in 2025 Toward Sea of Japan Sputnik News 20250106 SEOUL (Sputnik) - North Korea launched a ballistic missile toward the Sea of Japan for the first time in 2025, media reported, citing the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) of South Korea. North Korea's missile launched on Monday flew at least 1,100 kilometers (683.5 miles) before falling into the sea, media added, citing South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). This launch of a ballistic missile by Pyongyang was the first this year and occurred two months after the launch of a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) on November 5, the South Korean news agency noted. The missile, presumably fired by North Korea, fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, the Japanese news agency reported, citing a government source. The source also said that no damage to Japan was detected from the launch. Japan's Maritime Safety Service earlier confirmed that North Korea had presumably launched a ballistic missile. Six minutes later, the service issued a message that the missile had already fallen and called on ships to report any fragments they found but not to approach them. The South Korean military has intensified observation and control as part of preparations for possible further launches, closely exchanging information about the North Korean ballistic missiles with the US and Japan and maintaining a state of full combat readiness, media reported, citing a JCS statement. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The FCDO has released a statement following a ballistic missile launch by The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on 6 January. 6 January 2025 An FCDO spokesperson said: DPRK's ballistic missile launch on 6 January is another breach of multiple UN Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs). Unlawful ballistic missile launches continue to destabilise the peace and security of the Korean Peninsula. The UK strongly urges the DPRK to stop such provocations, return to dialogue and take credible steps towards denuclearisation. DPRK Missile Administration Succeeds in Test-fire of New-type Intermediate-range Hypersonic Ballistic Missile Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, January 7 (KCNA) -- The Missile Administration of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea successfully conducted a test-fire of new-type intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile on January 6. General Jang Chang Ha, general director of the Missile Administration of the DPRK, and leading officials of the defence science institute guided the test-fire on the spot. Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, oversaw the test-fire of new-type intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile through a monitoring system. The test of the new strategic weapon system is part of the plans for the development of the national defence capabilities to raise the durability and effectiveness of strategic deterrent against potential rivals in conformity with the changing regional security environment. The new compound of carbon fiber was used in the manufacture of the engine body of the new-type hypersonic missile and a new comprehensive and effective method based on the already-accumulated technologies introduced in the flight and guidance control system. Expressing great satisfaction over the result of the test-fire, the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un referred to the new weapon system. He said: The current test-fire proved without doubt that we are actively developing such powerful new-type weapon systems as intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile to cope with different security threats the hostile forces posed to our state at present. A few countries in the world might possess such weapon system. Just like the intentional purpose of all military powers, the development of new-type hypersonic missile is mainly aimed to steadily put the country's nuclear war deterrent on an advanced basis by making the means of changing the war situation, the weapon system to which no one can respond, the linchpin of strategic deterrence. This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action. As shown by the result of today's test-fire, the effectiveness of the missile system fully equipped with the expected militant performance was confirmed. The performance of our latest intermediate-range hypersonic missile system can not be ignored worldwide, and the system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier. Through the current test of the strategic weapon, we fully demonstrated the potentiality and development speed of our inexhaustible self-defensive technical force capable of fully coping with prospective threats and clearly showed the rivals what we are doing and that we are fully ready to use even any means to defend our legitimate interests. The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state. We have acquired a technical force which is by no means easy. This is a clear achievement and a special event in strengthening the self-defensive capabilities of which we should be proud. I express thanks to all the researchers and technicians and the workers of munitions industry enterprise, who contributed to the successful development of the new-type strategic weapon system. The hypersonic glide vehicle of the missile fired northeastward at a launching ground in a suburb of Pyongyang reached its first peak at the height of 99.8 kilometers and the second peak at the height of 42.5 kilometers while making 1 500-km-long flight as scheduled at the speed amounting to twelve times of the speed of sound and accurately landed on the waters of simulated target in the open sea. The test-fire had no negative effect on the security of the neighboring countries. The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address France's former president Sarkozy on trial over 'Libyan case' Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 4:37 PM Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy has gone on trial over allegations related to the "Libyan case." Sarkozy went on trial on Monday to face the opening hearing of his trial on charges of accepting illegal campaign funding from the government of the late Libyan strongman Muammar Gaddafi The charges against Sarkozy include passive corruption, illegal campaign financing, criminal association and embezzlement of public funds. Twelve suspects, Sarkozy and eleven others, including three former ministers and former close aides, are standing trial, accused of devising a pact with Gadafi to illegally fund Sarkozy's 2007 election bid. They all deny the charges. However, if found guilty, Sarkozy faces up to 10 years in prison under the charges of concealing embezzlement of public funds and illegal campaign financing. Sarkozy has labeled a document allegedly proving that some funds came from Gaddafi's sanctioned government "fake." His lawyer put out a statement denying the charges. "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." Franco-Lebanese businessman Ziad Takieddine, who prosecutors describe as the broker of the deal, has reportedly fled to Lebanon and will not be present in court. Takieddine was said to have personally delivered the suitcases full of cash from Libyan officials to the French Interior Ministry. Sarkozy, who was president of France from 2007 to 2012, has already been convicted by the French Judiciary for corruption and influence peddling. He has served a one-year sentence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US NSA Sullivan visits India amid power transition in Washington Global Times Trip aims to consolidate India's role in US' strategy: expert By Fan Anqi Published: Jan 06, 2025 11:39 PM US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Monday met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday in New Delhi. Indian media noted that Sullivan's trip comes amid power transition in Washington. Before the talks with Modi, Sullivan has met with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, as the two sides have discussed enhancing bilateral, regional and global cooperation, according to NDTV. In meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Monday, Sullivan has deliberated on the implementation of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), billed as one of the very significant initiatives rolled out during Biden's presidency to expand India-US strategic ties, Indian media reported. In a speech at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Sullivan emphasized the growing strategic and economic partnership between the two nations. The Indian Today said Sullivan's speech painted an optimistic picture of the India-US partnership as a cornerstone of global stability and innovation. "Seeing the recent improvement in China-India ties, the US is worried that it may weaken India's role in containing China; therefore, the US hopes to take this opportunity to strengthen its relationship with India, reaffirm the foundation of their cooperation, and exploit potential issues to drive a wedge between Beijing and New Delhi," Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, told the Global Times on Monday. During the final phase of the Biden administration, Sullivan's visit is also aimed at consolidating Biden's diplomatic legacy, Qian said. Over the past four years, US-India relations have developed comprehensively across various fields, driven primarily by Washington's geopolitical considerations, especially in Biden's Indo-Pacific strategy, in which India has played an important role, the expert explained. Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, added that Sullivan's visit also aims to draw India closer, encouraging the South Asian country to promote its functionality in QUAD and maintain a confrontational stance in its China policy. Meanwhile, by hyping the "China threat" narrative, Washington looks to highlight its "uniqueness" in regional affairs, Li told the Global Times on Monday. "This fear of stability reflects a distinct characteristic of the US approach to China-India relations, with the aim of creating regional turmoil to serve its own strategic interests," Li said. With efforts from both sides, the relationship between China and India has been thawing. In the first time in five years, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their formal talks in October 2024 on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit, a move that has strategic significance for the recovery of China-India ties after the border tensions. In December 2024, the 23rd meeting of Special Representatives for China-India Boundary Question was held in Beijing where six points of consensus were reached. Both sides positively evaluated the resolution and reaffirmed the need to continue implementing the agreement. In managing its relationship with the US and China, Qian believes India may seek a balance between the two powers. India hopes to break the deadlock with China on border issues; while also seeking to engage in more pragmatic economic cooperation with China to promote its own economic development. Moreover, India's efforts to improve ties with China reflect its strategic considerations to hedge against the uncertainties with the upcoming new US administration, Qian said. "India possesses enough strategic wisdom not to be easily exploited by the US," added Li, referring to India's long-standing tradition of non-alignment and a strong sense of independence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US National Security Advisor calls on Prime Minister India - Ministry of External Affairs January 06, 2025 The US National Security Advisor Mr. Jake Sullivan called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. 2. 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. 3. 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. 4. PM deeply appreciated a letter from President Biden handed over to him by NSA Sullivan. 5. PM 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. 6. PM conveyed his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. New Delhi January 06, 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Joint Press Release: National Security Adviser meets with the National Security Adviser of the United States of America India - Ministry of External Affairs January 06, 2025 Joint Press Release National Security Adviser of India Shri Ajit Doval met with U.S. National Security Adviser Mr. Jake Sullivan in New Delhi on 6 January 2025. NSA Sullivan was accompanied by a delegation of senior U.S. government officials. 2. 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 Joseph Biden on the side lines 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. 3. 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. 4. US NSA Jake Sullivan 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, 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. New Delhi January 06, 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The US National Security Advisor calls on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence They discuss advancements in India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership over the last four years PM recalls his various meetings with President Biden and appreciates his contributions towards strengthening of ties PM appreciates a letter from President Biden handed over by NSA Sullivan PM reaffirms India's commitment to further deepen cooperation between the world's largest democracies PM conveys his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden Posted On: 06 JAN 2025 7:43PM by PIB Delhi The US National Security Advisor Mr. Jake Sullivan called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. 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 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. PM deeply appreciated a letter from President Biden handed over to him by NSA Sullivan. PM 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. PM conveyed his best wishes to President Biden and the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. *** MJPS/ST (Release ID: 2090694) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to remove barriers to civil nuclear cooperation with India By Anjana Pasricha January 06, 2025 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." Sullivan's 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 Trump's previous term and President Biden's 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 don't 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 India's continuing ties with Moscow since Russia's 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran seeks negotiations to lift sanctions, says vice president IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 6, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref says Tehran is seeking negotiations to lift the "unjust and inhumane sanctions" imposed on the country and expects the international community to take action in this regard. In remarks delivered before the Supreme Council on Foreign Relations on Monday, Aref said the administration of President Masoud Pezeshkian does not wish for the sanctions to continuea veiled reference to certain political currents in the country that oppose diplomacy with the West to remove the economic bans. Aref emphasized that the sanctions have adversely affected ordinary citizens, not just the government. "If the aim of the sanctions was the government, they would not encompass many issues like the import of medicines and essential goods," he noted. Negotiations between Iran and European powers aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal are expected to resume before US President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House later this month. In 2018, Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the UN-endorsed accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and re-imposed stringent economic sanctions against Iran that had been lifted in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear program. 4353 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran urges UNSC to hold US accountable for threats against nuclear sites IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 6, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has censured US national security adviser Jake Sullivan's recent remarks against Iran's peaceful nuclear program, urging the UN Security Council to hold Washington accountable for threatening to attack the country's nuclear facilities. Sullivan has reportedly presented US President Joe Biden with options for potential strikes on Iranian nuclear sites if Tehran decides to move toward a nuclear weapon -- an allegation Iran has denied over and over again -- before the inauguration of Donald Trump later this month. The presentation was made in a secret briefing several weeks ago, the Axios news site reported, citing three unnamed officials. Speaking at his weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday, Baghaei said the threat has been repeated many times, adding that from a legal perspective, threatening to use force against countries is a violation of the United Nations Charter. "This threat against peaceful nuclear facilities is considered a threat to international peace and security, and the Security Council must intervene in these cases and hold the US government accountable," he stated. He added that the Iranian people have shown that they will act decisively in defense of their national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and dignity. Baghaei also commemorated the fifth anniversary of the US assassination of Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, hailing him as a national hero and a champion in the fight against terrorism. He also noted that January 7 marks Palestine's "Day of the Martyr," drawing attention to ongoing atrocities in the occupied territories. Baghaei labeled these acts as genocide, condemning the actions of Israel and its supporters as a permanent stain on their reputations. -- Strategic Agreement with Russia The spokesman pointed out to the details of the Iran-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, noting that the agreement encompasses various dimensions in the fields of economy, trade, energy, environment, and issues related to defense and security. Baghaei also said that the document is an update of the cooperation agreement that was signed by the two countries in the late 1990s. According to the diplomat, the document needed updating partly due to the expansion of ties between Tehran and Moscow over the past three decades. This is a bilateral document aimed at strengthening the relations between Iran and Russia, he stressed. Syria developments Further in his presser, the spokesman elaborated on Iran's position on the developments in Syria following the fall of the government of Bashar al-Assad in early December last year. Baghaei said that Iran's stance is clear. "Since the beginning of the developments, it has been emphasized that we respect the choice of the Syrians", he added. Preserving the territorial integrity of Syria is important for Iran and the entire region, the diplomat said, adding "Syria should be able to decide its fate without destructive interference by regional or international parties." The country, in no way, should turn into a place for the growth of terrorism and violent extremism, he further said. Israel's human rights violations Baghaei also addressed a question regarding the Israeli regime's human rights violations in Gaza. He stated that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been asked to investigate Israel's breach of its obligations, particularly during the 15 months following the revocation of the license for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). "After the agency's license was revoked due to its purely humanitarian role, a wave of international protests erupted. The international community did not accept this move since the beginning," he said. He emphasized that the ICJ must assess the extent and nature of Israel's violations, particularly regarding its duties to cooperate with international organizations. This request stems from a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly, which Iran voted in favor of, the spokesman added. Iran-India ties Regarding the recent visit to India by Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Baghaei explained that the trip was part of regular Iran-India consultations, marking the 19th round of such meetings. Takht-Ravanchi held discussions with his Indian counterpart and foreign minister, covering a range of topics including economic and trade cooperation, he said. "Key issues included the development of Chabahar Port and India's partnership in completing the Zahedan-Chabahar railway project," Baghaei noted, underscoring the significance of these projects in enhancing bilateral ties. -- Iran-Saudi relations The spokesman said that the simultaneity of the withdrawal of a Saudi company from Iran as well as the visit of an Iranian delegation to Riyadh following the execution of several Iranian nationals in the Arab country should not be analyzed as significant political issues. Based on inquiries by Iran's Organization for Investment Economic and Technical Assistance, no currency outflow has been reported following the withdrawal of the Saudi company, Baghaei said, adding that the process merely involved the transfer of shares from one company to another. He also said that the issue of the execution of the Iranian nationals is still being pursued, after Iran already expressed its stance in a transparent way. -- Afghanistan dam construction On a question about the construction of several dams in Afghanistan and ensuing disputes between Tehran and the de facto Taliban government in Kabul, the spokesman noted that the issue has been on Iran's agenda since Afghanistan began planning for its projects, and Tehran has formally lodged its protests. It is clear that the waters flowing from Afghanistan to Iran over thousands or millions of years create rights for both parties on the two sides of the border, he said. Iran has specific documents and agreements concerning some cases, said Baghaei. In other cases, based on customary international law and more importantly the principle of good neighborliness, Iran expects Afghan officials to take this matter seriously, the Iranian diplomat noted, adding that his country uses all available means to restore its rights in this respect. Iran-US talks In response to a question on possible talks between Iran and the United States, Baghaei said that the process of talks over the past two decades has shown that the Islamic Republic has never left the negotiating table. As Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has announced, the spokesman said, Tehran is ready to negotiate respectfully and honorably so that anti-Iran sanctions are lifted and other parties' concern over the nature of the Iranian nuclear program is addressed. This is Iran's position which remains unchanged, but decisions will be made by taking into consideration all angles and what stance the other side would adopt, said Baghaei 4354**4208**6125**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC to unveil 2 new underground missile, floating cities Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 2:59 PM The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says it will unveil two new underground missile and floating cities along the coasts of the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman that accommodate a broad range of cruise and ballistic missiles. Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, who is also the head of the IRGC's Public Relations Department, made the announcement on Monday. He said the military facilities would be inaugurated in a ceremony during the large-scale and specialized Payambar-e-Azam (The Great Prophet) 19 war game, which kicked off in the western regions of Iran on Saturday. IRGC Commander Major General Hossein Salami was in attendance. He said the Zionist enemy is well aware of the fact that the skies over the occupied territories are wide open to the Iranian Armed Forces, and the forces can strike Israeli assets with more precision, swiftness, and destructive power. Naeini further said the IRGC is prepared for large and complex battles on any scale and is ready for the moment the order is issued to operate against the Zionist entity. "The power and production of weapons and missiles in quantity, skills, and design have increased day by day, and we have acquired new capabilities." "The Iranian nation should know that the enemy has never had the upper hand in any battle." "We have never suffered an intelligence defeat from the enemy. The enemy constantly creates narratives to compensate for the intelligence and military defeats suffered at the hands of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the IRGC spokesman said. He said new developments in West Asia led to false enthusiasm and misconception within the Israeli regime. "We tell the enemies that we are always ready and capable of taking action at any moment." "We will not be hesitant and undecided. Once the order is made, we will demonstrate our prowess as in the past and we will change the perceptions and calculations of the delusional enemy once again," the IRGC spokesman stated. "Iran has not stopped producing missiles for a single day, and the country's defense systems are fully operational and have been upgraded in many cases." The IRGC spokesman said sophisticated anti-air missile systems are incapable of defending themselves against Yemeni missiles and drones. "The message of the IRGC's defensive and offensive exercises will be received by the enemy within the next few days and weeks." Naeini said the Zionist enemy is suffering from illusions and miscalculations, stressing that Operations True Promise I and II, which targeted the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories, proved that the skies of the Zionist regime are open to the Islamic Republic of Iran, contrary to media allegations about their imperviousness. He underscored that the Islamic Republic of Iran, based on its defense doctrine, will not initiate any war in the region. The IRGC spokesman stated that Iranian forces are capable of supporting the great resistance front in striking at the foundations of the Zionist regime. "The enemy's military threats have increased the convergence of society and made the Armed Forces more cohesive. The IRGC is moving towards consolidating its combined power infrastructure to develop the foundations of national security and authority," Naeini said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran, Russia to sign comprehensive cooperation agreement in 'mid-January' Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 10:44 AM The presidents of Iran and Russia will sign a comprehensive agreement for long-term cooperation in Moscow in mid-January, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei says. Speaking to reporters at his weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday, Baghaei said the agreement has different aspects. "An important part of the agreement includes trade, economy, energy and the environment sectors as well as issues pertaining to defense and security matters," he added. He noted that Iran and Russia had approved the document in early summer and were waiting for the right time to sign the deal by the two countries' presidents. Pointing to bilateral negotiations about the agreement at different times in the past, Baghaei stressed the need to update the previous document to further strengthen Tehran-Moscow relations. Iran and Russia, as two close and strategic allies, have over the past years deepened their relations in various fields, despite being under heavy Western sanctions. In 2001, Tehran and Moscow signed a long-term cooperation deal, officially known as the Treaty of the Foundation of Mutual Relations and the Principles of Cooperation. It was initially set for 10 years but was extended up until 2026. Now, the two capitals are making final arrangements for the comprehensive partnership pact, which may determine their bilateral ties in all fields for the next 20 years. Syria developments top on agenda of Iraqi PM's visit to Tehran The spokesperson said Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani is scheduled to visit Tehran at the invitation of President Masoud Pezeshkian in line with diplomatic interactions between the two countries. The Iraqi premier and Iranian president will discuss ways to promote mutual relations in various fields and the implementation of the agreements previously signed by the two countries, he added. "The developments in the region, especially in Syria, will definitely be among the topics on the agenda of this trip given their importance and sensitivity," Baghaei explained. All regional countries should respect Syrian people's decision Baghaei affirmed Iran's "clear" stance on the latest developments in Syria after the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad and said Tehran has always emphasized that it respects the Syrian people's decisions. He emphasized that all regional countries should also respect the decisions being made by the people of Syria. The spokesman said maintenance of Syria's integrity and territorial integrity is important for Iran and the whole region "while we have expressed common concerns." "Syria must be able to make decisions about its own destiny and future without destructive interference of regional or international parties. It must not become a place for the growth of terrorism and violent extremism at all," Baghaei noted. As Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced, stability, peace and prevention of any chaos in Syria will be beneficial for Iran and the entire region, he said. Iran never left negotiating table, always believes in dialogue In response to a question about possible negotiations between Iran and the United States, Baghaei said Tehran has never left the negotiating table and always believes in dialogue. He added that Iran is ready for "dignified" negotiations to remove sanctions and allay concerns of the sides about the country's nuclear program and emphasized, "This is Iran's fixed stance." Baghaei, however, noted that more decisions should be made in this regard based on the opposite side's approach and performance. World opposes Israel's violation of its commitments to UNRWA Baghaei said the international community expressed its protest over the Israeli regime's ban on the operations of UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, and called on the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to investigate the issue. He added that the ICJ must rule on Israel's breach of its commitments to international organizations. In a statement in November, the regime's foreign ministry said, "On the instruction of Foreign Minister Israel Katz," it had notified the UN of the "cancellation of the agreement" between the regime and the agency. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran to stage extensive anti-terror operations in land, air, sea for two months: Commander Iran Press TV Monday, 06 January 2025 7:18 AM A senior Iranian military commander says the country will stage a massive anti-terror campaign across its skies, lands and waters for the next two months to combat terrorist groups. "These [operations] will be held on the basis of a scheduled timeline, starting today and continuing for the next two months," Brigadier General Ali Shadmani, deputy coordinator of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said on Sunday. He added that elite forces will be engaged in these operations, and the forces' command network will be tested. The commander emphasized that state-of-the-art technologies, equipment and methods will be used in all the operations, which are aimed at maintaining and enhancing the preparedness of the Armed Forces. He noted that units from the Army's Ground Force in the country's east and west and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in west, southwest, and south as well as tens of thousands of Basij (volunteer forces) in provincial guard units will participate in the operations across different provinces. The IRGC Ground Force on Saturday launched the large-scale and specialized anti-terror campaing, codenamed Payambar-e-A'azam (Great Prophet) 19, in Iran's western province of Kermanshah, as part of attempts to raise its combat preparedness and get further ready to confront potential security threats against the country. Various specialized divisions and units of the IRGC Ground Force, particularly from the Mirza Kuchak Khan Brigades are participating in the military exercises. Iranian military forces hold routine exercises according to a detailed schedule in various parts of the country in order to test their weaponry and equipment, and evaluate their combat preparedness. The country's officials have repeatedly underscored that the country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capabilities, including its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense, and that Iran's defense capabilities will never be subject to negotiations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar junta says it releases 600 political prisoners in mass amnesty No sign that Aung San Suu Kyi will be freed; her son thanks supporters By RFA Burmese 2025.01.06 -- Myanmar's junta has released 5,864 prisoners, including about 600 political prisoners, to mark Independence Day, a spokesman for the military said, but there was no sign that one of the world's most famous political prisoners, Aung San Suu Kyi, would be set free. Myanmar has a tradition on big holidays of mass prisoner releases, with the majority being those jailed for ordinary crimes. Occasionally political prisoners are included. Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, spokesman for the junta known as the State Administration Council, said in a statement that 5,864 prisoners had been granted amnesty. "About 600 people prosecuted under 505 will be included," he said on Independence Day on Saturday, referring to a section of the penal code that includes spreading fear and false news, which is used to target critics of the junta that seized power in 2021. The spokesman said 180 foreigners were being released, most of whom are believed to be from neighboring countries such as Thailand. There had been speculation that Myanmar's most popular politician, Suu Kyi, might be released but the spokesman did not mention her and he did not respond to attempts to reach him for comment. The 79-year-old daughter of the hero of Myanmar's campaign for independence from British colonial rule was arrested after the 2021 coup in which an elected government she led was ousted. She was later sentenced on charges she dismissed as trumped up and jailed for 33 years. Her sentence was reduced to 27 years. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate is believed to be in solitary confinement in prison in the capital, Naypyidaw, but her exact whereabouts are not known while concern for her health grows. Her younger son, Kim Aris, thanked his mother's supporters for their prayers and hopes for her release. "I've held the same hope for her. Please don't give up. Let's continue to hold onto hope," he said in a video message on Sunday. The military does not say how many prisoners of conscience it holds but the rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners says more than 28,000 civilians have been arrested in the nearly four years since the coup and 21,499 are in detention. One former political prisoner dismissed the amnesty as window dressing by the junta as it comes under pressure from its neighbors to end the war against ethnic minority and pro-democracy forces that has crippled its economy and triggered a humanitarian crisis. "It's just for show to the International community," the former prisoner who declined to be identified told Radio Free Asia, adding that most of the political prisoners being freed were near the end of their sentences. "They're being released a day or two early." 'It's a lie' Among those freed was Khat Aung, a former chief minister of Kachin state when Suu Kyi's party was in government, who was serving a 12-year term on various charges, the military said. Model and actress Thin Zar Wint Kyaw who was jailed for five years for her dissent was also released, a source close to her family said. "Her release has been confirmed, she's in good health," said the source. Prisoners were emerging from jails across the country and rights groups were compiling data. A source in Kale town in the northwest said 23 people had been released there including four political prisoners. In the central town of Pyay, 11 political prisoners were among 60 people set free, said a source close to the town's prison. The Political Prisoner Network Myanmar activist group told RFA that only 344 political prisoners, including 131 women, had been released as of Monday afternoon, not the 600 the junta announced. "It's a lie to the public and the international community," Thaik Tun Oo, a senior member of the group, told RFA from an undisclosed location. Thaik Tun Oo said the military did not dare release more political prisoners given the unprecedented setbacks it is facing in the war. "They don't have the guts to release those sentenced for rebellion, who don't accept their rule," said Thaik Tun Oo. The only hope for most political prisoners was victorious anti-junta forces throwing open their prison gates, he said. Edited by Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Korea political turmoil drags on as investigators seek extension of arrest warrant for president Global Times By Deng Xiaoci Published: Jan 06, 2025 11:08 PM South Korea's political turmoil continued to escalate on Monday, as South Korea's investigating authorities requested an extension of a warrant to arrest the country's impeached president, Yoon Suk-yeol. Meanwhile, the presence of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Seoul further complicates the situation. Representing the outgoing Biden administration, Blinken's visit aims to gain a deeper understanding of South Korea's complex and delicate political landscape, and show support for the pro-US factions within the South Korean government, experts said. The Corruption Investigation for High-Ranking Officials (CIO), South Korean anti-corruption body, has refiled the warrant at the Seoul Western District Court to extend the deadline for the warrant to detain Yoon, Yonhap News Agency reported Monday. On Friday the CIO had failed again to serve an arrest warrant on Yoon over his declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024 after presidential security service guards formed a human chain to prevent access to him. The arrest warrant, the first for a sitting president, was due to expire at midnight on Monday. Earlier on Monday, Yonhap reported that South Korean state anti-corruption agency has asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain Yoon. "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." Yonhap later on Monday said the state anti-corruption agency's letter asking police to execute a warrant to detain Yoon contains legal issues, police said Monday, effectively rejecting the request. The Chinese Embassy in South Korea on Saturday advised Chinese nationals residing in South Korea and Chinese tourists visiting the country to enhance their legal awareness and self-protection, according to a statement released on the embassy's WeChat account on Saturday. The embassy asked them to stay away from local political gatherings and crowded areas, refrain from making public political statements, keep informed about traffic control caused by gatherings, and prioritize personal safety and travel security. Park Jong-joon, chief of South Korea's presidential security service, on Sunday vowed to keep blocking the attempt to arrest Yoon, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Around 30 South Korean ruling party lawmakers gathered near the presidential residence to rally against investigators' efforts to detain Yoon on Monday, according to local media. US weighing on ally Also on Monday, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Seoul for talks on their countries' bilateral alliance and other issues, officials said, Yonhap News Agency reported. Blinken on Monday said South Korea-US relations are "bigger than any one leader, any one government." And Cho said South Korea and US reaffirmed no vacuum in their bilateral alliance, said South Korean Foreign Minister Cho, per Yonhap. Blinken's visit marked the first trip by a top US official since Yoon's impeachment. Blinken arrived in South Korea late Sunday, Yonhap said. Yoon's surprise martial law imposition sparked concerns it could undermine the alliance with Washington, especially ahead of the launch of the second Donald Trump administration, Yonhap 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. Blinken on Monday reaffirmed the US' complete confidence in the strength of South Korea's democracy and the leadership of acting President Choi Sang-mok, according to South Korean finance ministry. In response, Choi expressed gratitude for Washington's steadfast support and trust in South Korea's democracy and alliance. He further noted that Blinken's visit itself is a testament to the unwavering strength of the South Korea-US alliance. Blinken's visit to South Korea and Japan during the US political transition period is aimed at consolidating what the Biden administration sees as one of its most commendable political legacies - the strengthening of the US-Japan-South Korea trilateral alliance to counter and contain China, according to Lu Chao, an expert on the East Asian studies at the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences. Amid domestic unrest in South Korea, Blinken's visit seeks to encourage political stability within the country. At the same time, as Japan's new leadership shows a relatively more friendly and pragmatic attitude toward China, maintaining such trilateral alliance becomes crucial. Through this visit, Blinken aims to reassure both South Korea and Japan, preventing their complex historical and diplomatic issues from undermining the trilateral alliance, thereby ensuring the stability of the alliance strategy, Lu said. Also, by being physically present in Seoul at the moment, Blinken's visit, although he carefully avoided mentioning or explicitly endorsing the impeached president, provided support to the extreme pro-US factions within South Korea, Lu told the Global Times on Monday. In South Korea, which is in the midst of political turmoil following the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol, and Japan, Blinken intends to highlight the expansion of US cooperation with both nations as part of the Biden administration's "Indo-Pacific strategy," AP reported on Saturday. Blinken is not scheduled to meet Yoon. Blinken is expected to steer clear of taking partisan sides in the deeply divided country but instead will focus on policy continuity, the AFP reported Sunday. 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, President-elect Donald Trump, who takes over on January 20, has been dismissive of what he sees as unfair commitments by the US, the AFP said. 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 presence of US troops, nearly 10 times what it contributes now. Blinken's visit aims to assess the situation and conduct field research to gain a deeper understanding of South Korea's complex and delicate political landscape, and to accurately gauge the key issues at play, Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times. Blinken seeks to demonstrate support for the pro-US factions within the South Korean government. He also seeks to influence forces in South Korea that strive for diplomatic balance, so as to prevent drastic swings in South Korea's current policies, Li noted. As a representative of the Biden administration, Blinken hoped that South Korea and Japan could closely coordinate to serve the US need for strategic competition with China. However, the reality is that the legacy of strengthening South Korea-Japan cooperation left by the Biden administration may gradually unravel with the return of Trump administration, he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Korea's CIO to seek extension of warrant to arrest Yoon People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 13:17, January 06, 2025 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. Analysts suggested that the CIO's decision to transfer the arrest responsibility stems from the Jan. 3 failure and expects significant resistance and little chance of success in a second attempt. They said the CIO, as an anti-corruption agency, has long been criticized for its relative weakness and lack of tangible achievements, with some even labeling it "ineffective since its establishment." The CIO has insisted on leading an "insurrection investigation" under the pretext of uncovering clues during an investigation of abuse of power, aiming to prove its relevance. However, Yoon's camp and the ruling party argue that the CIO does not have jurisdiction to investigate the president for such charges. Meanwhile, the CIO obtained the arrest warrant from the Seoul Western District Court, which was criticized by opponents as bypassing the corresponding authority -- the Seoul Central District Court, calling it a "selective operation." The ruling People Power Party also criticized the CIO's execution of the arrest warrant as an "overreach and inappropriate action." Park Jong-joon, chief of South Korea's presidential security service, on Sunday vowed to keep blocking the attempt to arrest Yoon. If the security service, which puts its top priority on the president's absolute safety, complied with the execution of the arrest warrant against Yoon, it would have been a dereliction of duty and an abandonment of presidential security, Park said in a statement. Park noted that he would accept any judicial responsibility for his possible errors in his decision to let security service agents confront a group of investigators who raided the presidential residence in central Seoul on Friday to proceed with the warrant to detain Yoon. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address S. Korea's presidential security service chief vows to block arrest of impeached Yoon People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:45, January 06, 2025 SEOUL, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- Chief of South Korea's presidential security service, Park Jong-joon, on Sunday vowed to keep blocking an attempt to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. If the security service, which puts its top priority on the president's absolute safety, complied with the execution of the arrest warrant against Yoon, it would have been a dereliction of duty and an abandonment of presidential security, Park said in a statement. Park noted that he would accept any judicial responsibility for his possible errors in his decision to let security service agents confront a group of investigators who raided the presidential residence in central Seoul on Friday to proceed with the warrant to detain Yoon. After the security service's obstruction of justice led to the botched attempt to arrest Yoon, a wave of denunciations emerged describing the security service as private bodyguards, even with calls that the security service should be disbanded. 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 martial law on the night of Dec. 3, but it was revoked by the National Assembly hours later. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Korea Convenes Security Council Over North's Launch of Ballistic Missile Sputnik News 20250106 SEOUL (Sputnik) - 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. 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. "Under a firm South Korea-US 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 press statement quoted by Yonhap. 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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Republic of Korea National Assembly Speaker Woo US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson January 6, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik of the Republic of Korea (ROK). The Secretary expressed sadness for the tragic loss of life regarding the Jeju Airlines incident, and reiterated that the U.S. stands ready to support the ROK during this difficult time. The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' confidence in the enduring strength of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and ironclad commitment to the defense of the ROK. The Secretary and Speaker discussed the importance of continued cooperation, particularly in the context of regional and global security, economic partnership, and trilateral cooperation with Japan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Blinken's Call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson January 6, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. The Secretary reaffirmed U.S. support for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned peaceful political transition to an inclusive, representative, and accountable government. He stressed the international community's shared goal for all Syrian parties to respect the rights and fundamental freedoms for all Syrians, including members of minority groups, and to prevent Syria from being used as a base for terrorism. The Secretary also emphasized the need for the international community to facilitate the flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Syria and thanked the Saudi government for providing aid to the Syrian people. The Secretary and Foreign Minister also discussed continued efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of all hostages and surges humanitarian assistance. They discussed implementation of the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon, and the Secretary emphasized the need for continued support to Lebanon's legitimate security institutions, such as the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Internal Security Forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Syrian Authorities Demand Kurdish Fighters Lay Down Arms Sputnik News 20250106 ANKARA (Sputnik) - 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. 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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Treasury Issues Additional Sanctions Relief for Syrian People U.S. Department of the Treasury January 6, 2025 WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued Syria General License (GL) 24 to expand authorizations for activities and transactions in Syria following December 8, 2024. This action underscores the United States' commitment to ensuring that U.S. sanctions do not impede activities to meet basic human needs, including the provision of public services or humanitarian assistance. This authorization is for six months, as the U.S. government continues to monitor the evolving situation on the ground. "The end of Bashar al-Assad's brutal and repressive rule, backed by Russia and Iran, provides a unique opportunity for Syria and its people to rebuild," said Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. "During this period of transition, Treasury will continue to support humanitarian assistance and responsible governance in Syria." A NEW PATH FORWARD As a result of the Assad regime's brutality against the Syrian people, support for terrorism, and destabilizing actions across the region, Syria is one of OFAC's most comprehensively sanctioned jurisdictions. Given the extraordinary circumstances, and to support the Syrian people as they build a more hopeful, secure, and peaceful future, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, through OFAC, is issuing GL 24 to help ensure that sanctions do not impede essential services and continuity of governance functions across Syria, including the provision of electricity, energy, water, and sanitation. GL 24 builds on existing authorizations in the Syrian Sanctions Regulations, Global Terrorist Sanctions Regulations, and Foreign Terrorist Organization Sanctions Regulations, including those that support international organization activities, nongovernmental organization (NGO) activities, humanitarian, and stabilization efforts in the region. This authorization does not unblock the property or interest in property of any blocked person under any of our sanctions programs, including Assad and his associates, the Government of Syria, Central Bank of Syria, or Hay'at Tahrir al Sham (HTS); nor does it authorize any financial transfers to any blocked person other than for the purpose of effecting certain authorized payments to governing institutions or associated service providers in Syria. ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE U.S. implementing partners and humanitarian organizations can continue to refer to the Syria Compliance Communique, which outlines OFAC's guidance for the provision of humanitarian assistance to Syria, and general license 31 CFR 542.533, which authorizes certain commercial activities in certain areas of Northeast and Northwest Syria.U.S. persons may continue to send non-commercial, personal remittances to friends or family in Syria. Additional guidance is provided in OFAC's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). All questions regarding exporting goods from the United States to Syria should be directed to U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) by email at foreign.policy@bis.doc.gov or by phone at 202-482-4252. Any person or organization who seeks to engage in activities in Syria that are not covered by existing authorizations or exemptions are encouraged to contact OFAC directly to seek specific licenses at https://ofac.treasury.gov/ofac-license-application-page or guidance at https://ofac.treasury.gov/ofac-compliance-hotline. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Post-Assad Syria faces challenges in building unified military By Sirwan Kajjo January 06, 2025 The newly appointed defense minister in Syria's caretaker government, Murhaf Abu Qasra, has been holding meetings with various rebel factions in the country, aiming to bring them under the command of Syria's defense ministry. Abu Qasra said in a statement Monday that such meetings "aim to develop a roadmap for stabilizing the military's organizational structure." Syria's 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 Syria's 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 Assad's 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 Syria's 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 Syria's 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 Assad's 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 country's future military. Last week, a meeting took place between Syria's de facto leader al-Sharaa and SDF officials in Damascus, but details of the discussion haven't 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 VOA's Kurdish service. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address British Prime Minister slams 'misinformation' in escalating row with Elon Musk By Henry Ridgwell January 06, 2025 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." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia, North Korea lost 'up to a battalion' of soldiers in Kursk: Zelenskyy Ukraine intelligence said junior Russian officers were deliberately underreporting casualties. By Taejun Kang for RFA 2025.01.05 TAIPEI, Taiwan -- Russian and North Korean forces "lost up to a battalion of infantry" in two days of battles near the village of Makhnovka in Russia's Kursk region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, estimating total North Korean casualties at about 3,800. Up to 12,000 North Korean soldiers are in Russia to support its war efforts against Ukraine in Kursk, Ukraine and the U.S. say, but neither Moscow nor Pyongyang have acknowledged their deployment. "In battles today and yesterday near just one village - Makhnovka in the Kursk region - the Russian army lost up to a battalion of infantry, including North Korean soldiers and Russian paratroopers. And that's tangible," Zelenskyy said in his nightly address on Saturday. The size of a battalion can vary from a few hundred soldiers to up to about 1,000. Zelenskyy did not specify if he meant the soldiers "lost" in the fighting at the village were killed or killed and wounded but he estimated that 3,800 North Koreans had been killed or wounded in the fighting in Kursk. "North Korea. Just look at this example, 12,000 have arrived. Today 3,800 killed or wounded. They can bring more, 30-40 thousand, or maybe 500. They can bring many people. Why? Because they have order, autocracy and everything," he said in an interview with American podcaster Lex Fridman on Sunday. Ukraine previously reported more than 3,000 casualties among the North Korean while South Korea estimates at least 1,100 North Koreans have been killed or wounded. "We do not want any war. We want to stop the Russians. And they invite ... North Korean soldiers. Invited. Their faces are burned. They themselves burn their faces. Those who cannot escape, injured or killed," the Ukrainian president added. Zelenskyy was referring to his previous assertion that Russian forces were burning the faces of North Korean soldiers killed in assaults on Ukrainian positions to conceal their identities and keep secret their deployment to help Russia in its war. He cited a video as evidence but Radio Free Asia has not been able to independently verify the clip. Zelenskyy's remarks came after reports that a senior North Korean military officer had been sent to Kursk to investigate the cause of the massive loss of troops. The high-ranking officer's visit resulted in a brief suspension of the North Koreans' participation in combat but it later resumed, Ukraine's Evocation reported on Thursday. Ukraine's Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, or DIU, said the morale of North Koreans in Kursk was declining. "The soldiers' morale is falling. And they are receiving constant propaganda from the Russian army with the message that the North Korean army's participation in the war with Ukraine is 'very important'," the DIU said on its official Telegram channel. "Junior Russian commanders are deliberately underreporting casualty figures to their superiors," it added. A Ukrainian special operations sergeant told RFA on Dec. 27 that North Korean soldiers were fighting with outdated weapons, no food and poor medical kits. "They have no military food in their bags. They have some grenades but it's not even the Soviet type," said Mykhailo Makaruk of the 8th Special Operations Regiment. "It's bullshit grenades. And they have lower level military medicine kits." There have been no signs of an additional deployment of soldiers from North Korea, despite the recent high casualty numbers, the Pentagon's Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters in Washington last week. "Can't say that we're seeing more being sent, but that doesn't mean that they won't send more in the future," she said. Edited by RFA Staff. Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blinken admits U.S. sent arms to Ukraine ahead of conflict People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 10:58, January 06, 2025 WASHINGTON, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken admitted Saturday that the United States had "quietly sent a lot of weapons to Ukraine" five months ahead of the conflict. "We saw it coming," Blinken said in an interview with The New York Times, noting the United States made sure that "Ukraine was prepared" by sending it billions of dollars and weapons since September 2021. "What we've had to look at each and every time is not only should we give this to the Ukrainians but do they know how to use it? Can they maintain it?" he added. When asked whether it is time to end the conflict, Blinken said a cease-fire would likely give Russia a break, and that any cease-fire must ensure Ukraine can "deter further aggression," which, he noted, could be achieved through NATO membership. "Russia has been talking about this for many years," said Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Saturday in response to Blinken's remarks, noting that they underscored "the rationale behind Russia's objective on the demilitarization of Ukraine." "We voiced concerns over the United States and Britain pouring arms into Ukraine, the endless NATO exercises in the Black Sea that violate Russian borders, and the dangerous proximity of Western military aircraft to civilian airliners in our airspace," she added. The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized Western arms shipments to Ukraine, claiming they escalate the conflict, obstruct peace efforts, and drag NATO members into direct involvement. According to the U.S. Department of State, as of Monday, the United States has provided Ukraine with 61.4 billion U.S. dollars in military assistance since the conflict. And it has "approved" its NATO allies to deliver 12,000 anti-armor systems of all types, over 1,550 anti-air missiles, radars, night vision devices, machine guns, rifles and ammunition, and body armor. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kyiv Presses On In Kursk As Russians Claim To Take Key Town In Ukraine By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service January 06, 2025 Ukraine on January 6 pressed its new assault in Kursk amid claims by Kyiv of major Russian losses there, while Moscow said its forces had taken a key town in eastern Ukraine as both sides bid for strategic positions ahead of any potential cease-fire talks. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War said in a report late on January 5 that Ukrainian forces had resumed offensive operations in at least three directions within the Kursk region and achieved "tactical advances." The scale of the current offensive and whether it will lead to changes along the front line remains unclear, but U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted Ukraine's positioning in Kursk is critical to possible future peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv. "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," Blinken told reporters during a trip to Seoul on January 6. Ukrainian military agencies and Russian bloggers both reported intense fighting in Kursk, where Ukrainian troops first pushed into in a surprise incursion on August 6. They have since resisted Russian attempts to fully expel them. Russian military analyst Yan Matveyev told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service on January 6 that the fresh push of the Kursk operation is more likely to be aimed at short-term goals rather than the longer term. "It's difficult to assume that Ukrainian forces have enough reserves to occupy vast territories in the Kursk region, including Kursk itself," he said. "They might try and expand their foothold ahead of negotiations. Besides, an attack like that makes the defensive side, Russia in this case, accumulate additional forces, thus weakening possible attacks in other parts of the front," he added. 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." 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 the Ukrainian military has had "local successes," saying, "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. 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. The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement it had repelled a Ukrainian assault near the village of Berdin, some 15 kilometers from the border. 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 followed Ukraine's cross-border offensive, which Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned as a "major provocation." Ukraine's General Staff said in a statement on January 6 that Russian forces have lost 1,550 soldiers over the past 24 hours. It did not elaborate. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russia has lost 38,000 in five months of fighting in the Kursk region, describing nearly 15,000 of the losses as "irrecoverable." Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address that Russia had deployed its strongest units to Kursk, including soldiers from North Korea, and Ukraine's operation in the region had prevented them from being deployed to the front line in the Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhya regions. Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry said its troops had taken the Ukrainian town of Kurakhove some 30 kilometers south of Pokrovsk - the strategic logistics hub that has been the target of Russian forces over the past several months. If Russian forces were to take Pokrovsk, it would represent a major gain for the Kremlin after fighting that has left the city mostly in ruins, with most of its 64,000 prewar population having fled. The developments come 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 priority for his first day in office. 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 the war could "be resolved in the next few months." Amid speculation that he could visit Ukraine in the coming days, Reuters reported on January 6 that Kellogg had postponed the trip until after Trump's January 20 inauguration. Citing four sources familiar with the matter, Reuters reported that Kellogg is also seeking to set up meetings in other European capitals, including Rome and Paris. In his comments, Blinken didn't comment on the actual operations by the Ukrainian troops in Kursk, but he did say that if and when talks finally start, Kyiv would still need "adequate security assurances" against Putin. "There is going to be, at some point, a cease-fire. 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, refit, and eventually re-attack," Blinken said, calling for an "adequate deterrent in place so that he doesn't do that." With reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-kursk-russia- offensive-blinken-trump-peace-talks/33264832.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 Commentary by Foreign Ministry's Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on ongoing attacks by Kiev regime on Russian nuclear power infrastructure facilities 6 January 2025 18:58 5-06-01-2025 The Russian Federation urges the international community to respond promptly and in the most serious manner to the ongoing attacks by the Kiev regime on Russian nuclear power infrastructure facilities and to force Kiev to stop playing with the lives of countries and peoples in Europe and on other continents. The crazy regime is prepared to sacrifice them to its criminal policy by causing a disaster at our largest nuclear power plant in Zaporozhye (ZNPP). Ukrainian armed formations made another attempt to strike a brutal blow at the ZNPP and the city of Energodar, where plant employees and their families live, on the eve of Orthodox Christmas on January 5. The massive raid by fixed-wing drones staged by the Ukrainian side was repulsed thanks to the selfless efforts and professionalism of Russian servicemen. Casualties and destruction were avoided. The radiation situation is normal. The murderous plans of Zelensky and his Bandera henchmen have been thwarted. That said, it is clear that after suffering repeated defeats and rapidly losing its footing, the criminal clique in Kiev will continue arbitrary acts unless it receives a decisive rebuff at the international level. There can be neither justification for nor condoning the actions of the Ukrainian side which puts neither international law nor nuclear safety standards on a dime and continues to aim its guns, missiles and drones at Russian nuclear energy facilities. All truly responsible, caring and nuclear-security-conscious countries can do today, at the very least, directly and unambiguously point out to Kiev that its disastrous course is unacceptable and condemned. We hope that Zelensky's Western sponsors will also have the guts to call him to order, if only for the sake of self-preservation. We expect objective assessments and a clear reaction on this matter from the IAEA leadership, especially since the attacks of January 5 were launched literally before the eyes of the Agency's experts who were at the ZNPP. It is clear that neither in December 2024, when a convoy carrying IAEA experts travelling to the ZNPP came under Ukrainian fire, nor during the recent attacks on the plant did the Kyiv regime think for a moment that it was endangering the lives of the IAEA Secretariat representatives. Apparently, Zelensky does not care about them. The Agency's calling things by their names and pointing to the Ukrainian side the unacceptability of its attacks on the ZNPP and other Russian nuclear power plants, have been long overdue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Loses Up to 485 Soldiers in Kursk Region Over Past Day Sputnik News 20250106 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Ukrainian forces lost up to 485 soldiers and 10 tanks in and around Russia's Kursk Region over the past day, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday. "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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Higher deficit to scale up fiscal firepower 13:14, January 07, 2025 By Wang Keju ( China Daily A more proactive fiscal policy toolkit will play a bigger role in counter-cyclical adjustments in 2025 amid sluggish domestic demand, a tepid property market, and local government debt risks, as well as rising protectionism, to help the country tackle various challenges head-on and spur stable growth, analysts said. A budget deficit of up to 4 percent of gross domestic product, the highest on record, could be considered along with increased issuance of local government special-purpose bonds and ultra-long special treasury debt, to anchor market expectations, boost domestic demand, and weather external shocks, they added. The annual Central Economic Work Conference, where the nation's policymakers set the policy agenda for the world's second-largest economy in mid-December, charted a "more proactive" fiscal policy in 2025 for the first time, explicitly noting "an increase in its deficit ratio". Details surrounding the annual fiscal deficit target are usually unveiled in March during the annual meeting of the National People's Congress the country's top legislature, said Guan Tao, global chief economist at BOCI China. However, the recent meeting's clear policy direction came as the authorities felt the need to act swiftly and communicate their fiscal plans more transparently to shore up market confidence as the economy is facing severe headwinds, Guan said. Since the deficit ratio was set at 3 percent for 2024, analysts predict the figure could reach 3.5 to 4 percent in 2025, which will be officially announced at the NPC meeting in March. "The fiscal deficit ratio holds a special significance compared to other fiscal policy tools, as people often gauge the government's policy stance based on this specific indicator," said Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities. China has the policy room to raise the deficit ratio to 3.5 percent or even up to 4 percent, so as to scale up its fiscal firepower available to drive domestic demand and economic stability, and provide much-needed relief to local governments, Luo said. Funding the deficit expansion through government bond issuances can translate into faster spending and more direct support for local economies, as they face fewer constraints in terms of their usage compared with special treasury bonds and local government special-purpose bonds, Luo added. However, the deficit ratio alone does not adequately capture the true extent of the government's policy actions. The deficit number in China's general public budget account is just one piece of the puzzle. Special treasury bonds and local government special-purpose bonds, which are classified under government-managed funds, are not included in this deficit calculation, said Zhang Jun, chief economist of China Galaxy Securities. Over the past three years, the sluggish property and land markets have led to a significant drop in land sales revenue, which accounts for a large portion of government-managed fund revenue, Zhang said. The drop in land-based revenue has put pressure on government-managed funds, prompting China to turn to alternative financing channels. To stabilize government-managed fund expenditures, China has increased the issuance of special treasury bonds and expanded the quota for local government special-purpose bonds, Zhang added. In the first 10 months of 2024, China's government-managed fund budget expenditures declined by 2.6 percent year-on-year, reaching around 8.1 trillion yuan ($1.1 trillion). This came against the backdrop of a significant 22.4 percent plunge in land sales revenue during the same period, according to data from the Ministry of Finance. The narrowing of expenditure decline can be attributed to the issuance of 1 trillion yuan in ultra-long-term special treasury bonds and nearly 4 trillion yuan in new special local government bonds last year, Zhang said. The usage of local government special-purpose bonds, as outlined during the meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee in mid-December, will extend to purchasing idle land resources, increasing land reserves, and acquiring existing commercial housing units for government-subsidized housing purposes. This expansion of usage scope, combined with the previously announced 800 billion yuan quota specifically for debt reduction, has led experts to forecast that the new quota for local government special-purpose bonds in 2025 will exceed 4 trillion yuan. Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International, said that local government land sales revenue is likely to see negative growth again this year, which will weigh on government-managed fund expenditures. However, the new issuance of special-purpose bonds, in addition to the debt reduction quota, is expected to increase to between 4.5 and 5 trillion yuan this year, Wang said, stressing that this substantial increase, which sits outside the regular public budget, is set to play a crucial role in supporting government fund expenditures and offsetting the decline in land-based revenue. Compared to special local government bonds, which are a more traditional policy instrument, special treasury bonds can enhance the effectiveness of fiscal policies and deliver precise, tailored solutions to the challenges facing the economy, analysts said. The volume of ultra-long special treasury bonds typically those with a tenor of more than 10 years is expected to increase from the current 1 trillion yuan to between 1.5 and 2 trillion yuan in 2025, said Zhang of China Galaxy Securities. The country is also expected to issue 1 trillion yuan of special treasury bonds to support State-owned large commercial banks in replenishing their Tier-1 core capital, enhancing their ability to withstand risks and increasing credit extension, thereby better serving the real economy, Zhang said. Tier-1 core capital refers to the core capital held in a bank's reserves, including common stock and disclosed reserves. When observing the strength of China's proactive fiscal policy, the adjustment of expenditure structure is just as important as the expansion of spending volume, analysts said. To optimize the fiscal spending structure, policy focus is transitioning from being primarily investment-driven to now placing equal importance on both investment and consumption, said Luo of Yuekai Securities. Investment and consumption are the yin and yang of domestic demand it's not an either-or situation, the goal is to find the optimal mix of the two complementary forces to ensure well-rounded growth, Luo said. Infrastructure investment must be coupled with considerations around population mobility, structural changes, and boosting the economy's potential growth rate, Luo said, adding that fiscal spending needs to be increased in areas such as healthcare, education, and elderly care. This increased focus on social welfare expenditures is closely linked to China's ongoing urbanization efforts and the integration of migrant workers into the urban economy, to boost their willingness to spend, Luo said. Meanwhile, the trade-in policy for consumer goods, which provides incentives from fiscal spending for consumers to replace older products, has already shown clear signs of positive outcomes, Luo said. The trade-in policy had driven over 1 trillion yuan in related product sales as of Dec 13, contributing to the sale of over 5.2 million passenger vehicles, as well as the purchase of more than 49 million units of household appliances, data from the Ministry of Commerce show. In 2025, policymakers should encompass a wider range of consumer products under the trade-in programs, allowing more households to participate in and benefit from the initiative, Luo added. Given the uncertainty surrounding fiscal revenue and the pace of special bond issuances, policymakers should be prepared to promptly augment budgets within the year to accelerate expenditure growth and better leverage the counter-cyclical function of fiscal policy, Luo added. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Russian Army Liberates Settlement Of Dachenskoye In Donetsk People's Republic Sputnik News 20250106 Earlier the Russian Armed Forces took control of the city of Kurakhovo, dealing another serious blow to Ukrainian troops. The Russian Armed Forces have liberated the village of Dachenskoye in the Donetsk People's Republic, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported on Monday. "As a result of decisive actions by units of the Tsentr group of troops, the village of Dachenskoye of the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated," the message says. Russia's Zapad group of forces has repelled three counterattacks and defeated seven Ukrainian brigades over the past day, eliminating up to 550 Ukrainian military personnel, the Russian Ministry of Defense added. "The enemy's casualties have amounted to up to 550 fighters; two US-made M113 armored fighting vehicles, Kozak and Italy-produced Iveco armored combat vehicles, 12 vehicles, one UK-made 155-mm Braveheart self-propelled artillery weapon, one US-produced 155-mm 777 howitzer, one 152-mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery weapon, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery weapons, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers and one US-made 105-mm M101 weapon has been destroyed," the ministry said, adding that two electronic warfare stations and two counter-battery radars had also been destroyed. The ministry also stated that Ukraine had lost about 535 soldiers and four tanks in clashes with Russia's Tsentr battle group, adding that Russian troops had repelled 14 counterattacks. The Yug battle group have taken control over the settlement of Kurakhovo in the Donetsk People's Republic, eliminated 265 Ukrainian servicemen and repelled three counterattacks, while the Vostok battle group has eliminated up to 170 Ukrainian fighters, the ministry said. Russia's Dnepr group of forces has eliminated up to 80 Ukrainian servicepeople, while the Sever group has eliminated 70 soldiers in the Kharkov direction, the ministry added. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Armed Forces Liberate Key City of Kurakhovo in Donbass Sputnik News 20250106 The Ukrainian army lost 80% of its military personnel in the city of Kyrakhovo. The liberation of the city provides the Russian Armed Forces with the operational freedom that will boost its pace in liberating the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic. Units of the Yug military group have taken control of the city of Kurakhovo in Donbass, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. "During active offensive operations, units of the Yug military group have completely liberated the city of Kurakhovo the largest settlement in the southwestern part of Donbass," the statement reads. As a result, Russian forces have gained operational freedom, which will allow for an increased pace in liberating the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic, according to the ministry. "After capturing Kurakhovo, Russian forces have gained operational freedom. This will allow for an increased pace in liberating the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic," the statement read. Ukrainian Losses Mount During the defense of Kurakhovo, Ukraine lost more than 12 thousand servicemen, which amounted to 80% of its personnel, as well as 40 tanks and other armored vehicles, the Russian Ministry of Defense added. "As a result of the professional actions of Russian forces during the liberation of Kurakhovo, the enemy lost 80% of its personnel (over 12,000 individuals), approximately 3,000 pieces of various weapons and military equipment, including 40 tanks and other armored fighting vehicles. Over two months of combat operations near Kurakhovo, the daily losses of the Ukrainian army averaged between 150 to 180 servicemen killed and wounded," the statement reads. The ministry specified that the enemy deployed nationalist formations and foreign mercenaries, reinforcing them with artillery and tanks. Among them were units of the elite 79th Air Assault and 46th Airmobile Brigades, as well as the 5th Heavy, 33rd, and 157th Mechanized Brigades. According to the Ministry of Defense, to hold Kurakhovo, the command of the Ukrainian army concentrated a total of 26 battalions, comprising over 15,000 military personnel. Significance of Kurakhovo Liberation According to the ministry, a powerful fortified area and reservoir in Kurakhovo significantly limited the maneuverability of the Russian Armed Forces assault units before the territory was liberated by the Russian troops. "Over ten years, the Kiev regime transformed it into a strongly fortified area with an extensive network of permanent firing points and underground communications. To the north, it is shielded by a reservoir, which significantly restricted the maneuverability of Russian assault units," the military department stated. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Air Defense Downs 12 Ukrainian Drones Overnight Sputnik News 20250106 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian air defense systems destroyed 12 Ukrainian drones over the Kursk, Belgorod, and Bryansk regions and Crimea on Monday night, the Russian Defense Ministry said. "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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We Maintain a Buffer Zone on Russian Territory, Actively Destroying Russian Military Potential There - Address by the President President of Ukraine 6 January 2025 - 20:23 I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians! Today, I held a Staff meeting, followed by a detailed separate report from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Barhylevych. First - the defense 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 Defense Forces. There were also detailed reports from the responsible commanders regarding the formation and training of our brigades. Second - the Kursk operation. 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. 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. What's important is that the occupier cannot currently redirect all this force to other directions, in particular the Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, or Zaporizhzhia regions. I thank all our warriors who are bringing the war back to Russia and providing Ukraine with greater security and strength. Today, I also held a meeting with international relations officials to plan our meetings and negotiations for January. We are accelerating arms deliveries to Ukraine and working toward new and more long-term relations with partners. We are preparing positive diplomatic news for Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia claims capture of town in Ukraine's Donetsk region By VOA News January 06, 2025 Russia's military said Monday its forces captured an important town in eastern Ukraine, while Ukrainian officials cited tens of thousands of Russian casualties in the fighting in Russia's Kursk region. The Russian Defense Ministry said its control of the town of Kurakhove after several months of fighting for the logistics hub will allow the Russian military to more quickly advance elsewhere in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian officials did not confirm the loss of Kurakhove on Monday, with the military's General Staff saying in a late Monday report that Russian forces had launched attacks on Ukrainian positions in the town. Russian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Monday that the Ukrainian offensive in Kursk, which began five months ago, had caused 38,000 Russian military casualties. "The Russians have deployed their strongest units to Kursk, including soldiers from North Korea. Importantly, all this manpower cannot now be redirected to other fronts - neither to the Donetsk region, nor against Sumy, the Kharkiv region or Zaporizhzhia," Zelenskyy said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier 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 Russia's 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." Ukraine's 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. Russia's 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Blinken: China, North Korea helping drive Russia's war in Ukraine By VOA News January 06, 2025 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 Russia's 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." Ukraine's 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. Russia's 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 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address VICTORIA, Seychelles, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XT.COM is thrilled to announce the addition of ICBX, the native token of the ICB Network, to our platform. 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"The listing of ICBX on XT.COM ( https://xt.com/ ) builds a more connected blockchain community, expanding ICBX's global reach and liquidity. Together, we can build a more scalable, efficient, and sustainable blockchain industry. This shared vision aligns perfectly with our goal of creating a more interconnected and progressive future. Were excited to see the transformative impact this collaboration will bring to our global community. For those eager to explore the full potential of ICBX, the ICB Network offers a range of resources: These resources provide a comprehensive view of what makes ICBX a standout project in todays blockchain landscape. XT.COM: Supporting Blockchains Future Founded in 2018, XT.COM now serves nearly 8 million registered users, over 1,000,000+ monthly active users and 40+ million users in the ecosystem. Our comprehensive trading platform supports 800+ high-quality tokens and 1000+ trading pairs. XT.COM crypto exchange supports a rich variety of trading, such as spot trading , margin trading , and futures trading together with an aggregated NFT marketplace . Our platform strives to cater to our large user base by providing a secure, trusted and intuitive trading experience. Website: xt.com Follow Us: @XTexchange | XT Telegram XT Exchange Bella Wei Listing@xt.com ICBX CEO@icb.network 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/31d08e34-d40b-47ff-92db-672c1b263092 WENZHOU, China, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Under the leadership of CEO Richard Zhou, GSP Automotive Group has achieved remarkable breakthroughs and received numerous prestigious accolades. On December 7, 2024, at the "Guru Club 9th Global Investment Carnival 2025" held in Shenzhen, Richard Zhou, CEO of GSP Automotive Group, was honored with the "Outstanding Leader of the Year" award during the Guru Club's annual "Golden Award" selection, recognizing exceptional companies and their leaders. As one of China's leading investment research and exchange platforms, Guru Club's "Outstanding Leader of the Year" award celebrates business leaders who exemplify outstanding leadership qualities and drive continuous growth and innovation within their organizations. Award recipients are distinguished by their keen insights, sound judgment, and strategic thinking, all while prioritizing social responsibility and the broader societal impact of their companies. Since taking the helm at GSP in 2021, Richard Zhou has spearheaded a significant growth trajectory. In 2023, GSP's total operating revenue increased by 73% compared to 2020. This accomplishment reflects Zhou's experience and understanding of the automotive aftermarket landscape. Zhou's strategic market expansion has been pivotal in driving GSP's rapid revenue growth. Leveraging his expertise across North and South America, he has successfully broadened global sales networks, bolstered market presence in Europe and North America, and continues to emerge in international markets such as Asia, Africa, and Latin America, resulting in record-high export volumes for GSP. To foster a more streamlined business model, Zhou has launched several initiatives, including the establishment of a global warehousing network and a strategic partnership with JD Logistics aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency. This strategy is designed to meet customers' "one-stop" procurement needs while transitioning GSP from a production-focused manufacturer to a comprehensive service provider in the automotive sector. GSP is pursuing new growth avenues through collaborations with Jilin Dongchi New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. This is the first step for GSP's future ventures in new energy solid-state batteries. In 2023, GSP introduced a four-tier ESG management framework which achieved an AA-level ESG rating from Huazheng with a remarkable improvement of over 20 points in its EcoVadis score. This qualifies GSP as a first-tier international supplier. GSP has also been recognized at Rogers events, receiving the Best ESG Practice Award for Listed Companies in 2024 and the Annual ESG Pioneer Award at the 6th "Golden Award." These accolades highlight GSP's ongoing commitment as a leading green enterprise. We are dedicated to the three pillars of ESG: environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and effective governance. These pillars continue to drive our mission to be the leading provider of innovative, high quality automotive aftermarket products and services. We are committed to customer satisfaction, shareholder value, and social responsibility. Company: GSP Automotive Group Wenzhou Co., Ltd. Contact Person: Jack Lu Email: luzw@gsp.cn Website: https://www.gsp.cn Telephone: 13816692580 City: WEN ZHOU Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/42ce130e-8349-40c3-9bcc-af7934b35608 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9b94f23c-8c8d-4cd9-a8c9-db441170ef76 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8ee7767b-b006-4466-9bc6-a486244e8b19 EDF announces the success of its senior multi-tranche bond issue for a nominal amount of $1.9 billion On 6 January 2025: EDF (BBB positive S&P / Baa1 stable Moodys / BBB+ negative Fitch) successfully priced a senior bond issuance in 3 tranches for a nominal amount of U.S. $1.9 billion (the USD Bonds): $ 700 million bond, with a 10-year maturity and a 5.750% fixed coupon; $ 800 million bond, with a 30-year maturity and a 6.375% fixed coupon; $ 400 million additional issue of the bond issued on 22 April 2024 with an initial maturity of 40 years and a 6.000% fixed coupon (1). This transaction enables EDF to finance its strategy and objective to contribute to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Settlement and delivery of the USD Bonds will take place on 13 January 2025, the date on which the USD Bonds are expected to be admitted to trading on the multilateral trading facility of the Euro MTF, operated by the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. The expected rating for the USD Bonds is BBB / Baa1 / BBB+ (S&P / Moody's / Fitch). Important Notice This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. The securities to which this press release relates (the USD Bonds) have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. There will be no public offer of USD Bonds in the United States. EDF has not authorized any offer of USD Bonds to retail investors in any member state of the European Economic Area (a Member State). No action has been undertaken or will be undertaken to make an offer of USD Bonds to retail investors requiring publication of a prospectus in any Member State. As a result, the USD Bonds may only be offered in Member States (i) to any legal entity that is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Regulation or (ii) in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation. For the purpose of this paragraph, the expression an offer means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the USD Bonds to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to exercise, purchase or subscribe for the USD Bonds, the expression Prospectus Regulation means Regulation (EU) No 2017/1129, as amended, and the expression retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of the following: (i) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU, as amended (MiFID II); or (ii) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97, as amended or superseded, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II; or (iii) not a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Regulation. The USD Bonds are not intended to be offered, sold or otherwise made available to, and should not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the United Kingdom (UK). No action has been undertaken or will be undertaken to make available any USD Bonds to any retail investor in the United Kingdom. For the purposes of this provision: (a) the expression retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of the following: (i) a retail client as defined in point (8) of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/565 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (the EUWA), or (ii) a customer within the meaning of the provisions of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (as amended, the FSMA) and any rules or regulations made under the FSMA to implement Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client, as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA, or (iii) not a qualified investor as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA. This press release is an advertisement and not a prospectus within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation. Any offer to acquire securities will be made, and any investor should make its investment, solely on the basis of information that will be contained in the offering document that has been made available in connection with the offering. Copies of the offering document may be obtained at no cost from EDF or through the website of EDF. No Prospectus Regulation compliant prospectus, subject to the approval of the French Autorite des Marches Financiers or any other Member States regulator, has been or will be published. The information in this announcement is subject to change. In the United Kingdom, this press release may only be distributed to, and is only directed at, persons who are qualified investors within the meaning of Article 2 of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the EUWA, and who are also (i) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the Order), (ii) persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.), or (iii) persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the issue or sale of any USD Bonds may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as Relevant Persons). This press release is directed only at Relevant Persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not Relevant Persons. Any investment or investment activity in the USD Bonds is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 434TWh (1), a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDFs raison detre is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 40.9 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of 139.7 billion in 2023. (1) See EDFs 2023 URD sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2 and 3.1 (2) Customers are counted per delivery site. A customer may have two delivery points. (1) See press release on 16 April 2024 Attachment Dublin, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Whole Genome and Exome Sequencing Market: By Application, Organism and Product with Executive and Consultant Guides" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Will all newborns receive Whole Genome Sequencing at birth? How fast will Direct to Consumer Testing grow? What sequencing technology will take the lead? What's holding the industry back? Where are over 800 locations that have high throughput devices? New consumers, new technologies, new specializations. In a situation reminiscent of the birth of the internet industry a wide range of well-funded players are racing for market share on a truly global stage. The report forecasts the market size over five years. The report includes detailed breakouts for 14 countries and 5 regions. The report illustrates the diverse roles played by various market participants in the diagnostics sector, ranging from instrument manufacturers and various types of independent labs (specialized, national/regional, analytical), to public labs, hospital labs, physician labs, direct-to-consumer (DTC) labs, sequencing labs, and audit bodies. These players contribute uniquely across different subfields such as whole genome sequencing, which sees applications in direct-to-consumer markets, research, clinical settings, pathogen testing, and AgriBio. The structure of the industry reveals hospitals' significant share in testing, the importance of economies of scale, the pivotal role of instrument manufacturers, and the ongoing challenges faced by the healthcare industry in adapting to new technologies and market shifts. This complex ecosystem reflects a dynamic interplay between technological advancements and market demands, shaping the future directions of the diagnostics industry. Tumor Cell Sequencing? Direct to Consumer? Gene Expression? Find out about the technology in readily understood terms that explain the jargon. What are the issues? Find the opportunities and the pitfalls. Understand growth expectations and the ultimate market forecasts for the next five years. Key Topics Covered: 1 Market Guides 1.1 Whole Genome Sequencing Market - Strategic Situation Analysis 1.2 Guide for Executives, Marketing, Sales and Business Development Staff 1.3 Guide for Management Consultants and Investment Advisors 2 Introduction and Market Definition 2.1 Whole Genome Sequencing Definition In This Report 2.2 The Genomics Revolution 2.3 Market Definition 2.4 Methodology 2.5 Perspective: Healthcare and the IVD Industry 2.6 Sizing the Genome - Not What You Think 2.7 Global Listing Of High Throughput Sequencing Establishments Installed 3 Market Overview 3.1 Market Participants Play Different Roles 3.1.1 Instrument Manufacturer 3.1.2 Independent lab specialized/esoteric 3.1.3 Independent lab national/regional 3.1.4 Independent lab analytical 3.1.5 Public National/regional lab 3.1.6 Hospital lab 3.1.7 Physician lab 3.1.8 DTC Lab 3.1.9 Sequencing Labs 3.1.10 Audit body 3.2 Whole Genome Sequencing - Markets, Examples and Discussion 3.2.1 Direct to Consumer - Two Approaches 3.2.2 Research Markets 3.2.3 Clinical - Understanding Germline and Somatic 3.2.4 Pathogen Testing 3.2.5 AgriBio - Big Business 3.3 Industry Structure 3.3.1 Hospital's Testing Share 3.3.2 Economies of Scale 3.3.3 Instrument Manufacturer Role 3.3.4 Healthcare Industry Impacts - Still Struggling 4 Market Trends 4.1 Factors Driving Growth 4.1.1 Diagnostic Factors 4.1.2 Interpreting the Code Otherwise 4.1.3 Changes in Agriculture 4.1.4 Fertility Technology Comes of Age 4.1.5 Pathogen Challenges 4.2 Factors Limiting Growth 4.2.1 Increased Competition Lowers Price 4.2.2 Lower Costs 4.2.3 Healthcare Cost Concerns Curtail Growth 4.2.4 Wellness has a downside 4.2.5 GMO Opposition Movement 4.3 Sequencing Instrumentation 4.3.1 Instrumentation Tenacity 4.3.2 Declining Cost Changes Industry Structure 4.3.3 Listing of Current NGS Instrument Specifications 4.3.4 Illumina 4.3.5 ION 4.3.6 Pacific Biosystems 4.3.7 Roche 454 4.3.8 SOLiD 4.3.9 Oxford Nanopore 4.3.9.1 What is Oxford Nanopore Sequencing? 4.3.9.2 What can Oxford Nanopore Sequencing be used for? 4.3.9.3 Oxford Nanopore Products 4.3.10 Long Reads - Further Segmentation 4.3.11 Linked Reads 4.3.12 Targeted Sequencing Adopts CRISPR 4.3.13 New Sequencing Technologies 5 WGES Recent Developments 5.1 Recent Developments - Importance and How to Use This Section 5.1.1 Importance of These Developments 5.1.2 How to Use This Section 5.2 Epic, GeneDx to broaden WGS potential 5.3 Qiagen QiaSeq xHyb Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Panel 5.4 WGS Uncovers Genetic causes of cerebral palsy 5.5 Rapid WGS Use Recommended for Intensive Care 5.6 Quest and Ultima Genomics to Develop Tests 5.7 WHO Launches WGS Guide 5.8 Myriad Genetics to Study MRD Testing 5.9 Adela Developing Epigenetic Multi-Cancer Detection 5.10 Epic Sciences Expanding Infrastructure for Liquid Biopsy Test 5.11 Bionano Laboratories Announces New Prenatal Whole Genome Tests 5.12 Myriad Genetics Plans Product Launches 5.13 Genomics England, Aims to Sequence 100K Newborns 5.14 Juno Diagnostics NIPT With At-Home Sample Collection 5.15 Cardio Diagnostics Launches Genetic Cardio Risk Test 5.16 Universal Genetic Testing in Breast Cancer Further Supported 5.17 Aniling Gets CE-IVD Marks for Cancer Sequencing Tests 5.18 MyOme Lands Investment for WGS 5.19 GenomSys Gains CE Mark for New Genomic Analysis Software 5.20 WGS Finds Lung Cancers Fall Into Molecular Subtypes 5.21 Testing Distinguishes Benign Tumors From Precancerous Condition 5.22 Plan to Sequence All Newborns in UK 5.23 Clear Labs Raises $60M for Nanopore Sequencing 5.24 Variantyx Expands Into Prenatal, Cancer Testing 5.25 Whole-Genome Sequencing Aids Diagnosis in Stockholm 5.26 Variantyx Raises $20M 5.27 Nonacus WGS Service for SARS-CoV-2 Laboratories 5.28 Center to Report Risk Scores in Clinical WGS 5.29 Stanford Launches WGS for Cardiovascular Testing 5.30 Illumina and NY Healthcare Partner on Clinical WGS 5.31 Increased Adoption of WGS Needs Acceptance by Payors, Providers 5.32 Veritas Intercontinental Completes 5M Series B Financing Round 5.33 M2GEN and Discovery Life Sciences in Bioinformatics Agreement 5.34 Genomics England Adopts Quantum ActiveScale Object Storage 5.35 GenomiQa, Icon Group to Validate Genomic Analysis Platform CapeDx 5.36 NHS Wales Introduces WGS for Critically Ill Newborns 5.37 Illumina Achieves EAU for NGS-Based SARS-CoV-2 Test 5.38 C2i Genomics to Launch Trials for MRD Detection Tech 5.39 Roche Acquires Sequencing Company Stratos Genomics 5.40 UK COVID-19 Sequencing Consortium Launches 5.41 Invitae Acquires Three Companies: YouScript, Genelex, Diploid 5.42 Experience From Centralized Genomic Medicine Lab 5.43 MGI to Enable $100 Human Genome 5.44 Nebula Genomics offers $299 WGS 5.45 Team to Study Campylobacter Omics 5.46 Veritas Genetics Restarts US Business 5.47 NEOGEN, Gencove partner to advance animal genomics 6 Profiles of Key Companies (Partial) 6.1 10x Genomics, Inc. 6.2 1928 Diagnostics 6.3 23andME Inc. 6.4 Abbott Laboratories 6.5 AccuraGen Inc. 6.6 Adaptive Biotechnologies 6.7 Admera Health, LLC 6.8 Agilent/Dako 6.9 Akonni Biosystems 6.10 Amoy Diagnostics Co., Ltd. 6.11 Ancestry.com LLC 6.12 Anchor Dx 6.13 ARUP Laboratories 6.14 BaseClear 6.15 Baylor Miraca Genetics Laboratories 6.16 Beckman Coulter Diagnostics 6.17 Becton, Dickinson and Company 6.18 BGI Genomics Co. Ltd 6.19 Bioarray Genetics 6.20 Biocept, Inc. 6.21 Biodesix Inc. 6.22 BioFluidica 6.23 BioGenex 6.24 Biolidics Ltd 6.25 bioMerieux Diagnostics 6.26 Bioneer Corporation 6.27 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc 6.28 Bio-Techne 6.29 C2i Genomics 6.30 Caris Molecular Diagnostics 6.31 CellMax Life 6.32 Centogene 6.33 Circulogene 6.34 Clear Labs 6.35 Clinical Genomics 6.36 Complete Genomics, Inc. - A BGI Company 6.37 CosmosID 6.38 Dante Labs 6.39 Datar Cancer Genetics Limited 6.40 Day Zero Diagnostics. 6.41 Diasorin S.p.A. 6.42 Element Biosciences 6.43 Element Biosciences 6.44 Epic Sciences 6.45 Epigenomics AG 6.46 Eurofins Scientific 6.47 Excellerate Bioscience 6.48 Fabric Genomics 6.49 Freenome 6.50 FUJIFILM Wako Diagnostics 7 The Global Market for Whole Genome Sequencing 7.1 Global Market Overview by Country 7.2 Global Market by Application 7.3 Global Market by Organism 7.4 Global Market by Product 8 Global Whole Genome Sequencing Markets - by Application 8.1 Research 8.2 Clinical Human 8.3 Clinical Human Rapid 8.4 Clinical Tumor 8.5 Clinical Pathogen 8.6 Direct to Consumer 8.7 Agriculture/Other 9 Global Whole Genome Sequencing Markets - by Organism 9.1 Human 9.2 Pathogen 9.3 Other Organism 10 Global Whole Genome Sequencing Markets - by Product 10.1 Instruments 10.2 Reagents 10.3 Analysis 10.4 Software & Other 11 Vision of the Future of Whole Genome Sequencing 12 Appendices 12.1 United States Medicare System: Laboratory Fees Schedule 12.2 The Most Used IVD Assays 12.3 The Highest Grossing Assays 12.4 The Whole Genome Sequence of SARS-CoV-2 For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/yubswq 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. Dublin, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Europe Healthcare Cold Chain Logistics - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts (2024-2029)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe Healthcare Cold Chain Logistics Market size is estimated at USD 10.40 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 16.39 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 9.69% during the forecast period (2024-2029). A surge in the development and production of biopharmaceutical vaccines and advanced therapies, technological advancement, and the region's interest in R&D have contributed significantly to the market's growth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the pharmaceutical industry was one of the most affected sectors, witnessing increased production and supply of vaccines and antidotes worldwide. The United States Department of Transport selected 41 projects to receive around USD 653 million in grants under the Port Infrastructure Development Programme for infrastructure spending for ports and waterways in 2021. Improved temperature-controlled storage facilities at ports for pharmaceutical and other medical products, which require special temperature conditions throughout their journey, were crucial. The European Medical Agency approves an average of 38 drugs annually, depicting an increase in the development of biopharmaceuticals. The growth in the biopharmaceuticals sector demands advanced requirements for the storage and supply of the products, as regulatory compliance and patient safety are manufacturers' primary concerns. In 2023, Germany spent USD 8,011 per capita on health, approximately 12.7% of GDP. It is also one of the largest producers and exporters of healthcare products. Europe Healthcare Cold Chain Logistics Market Trends The OTC Pharmaceuticals Consumption is Projected to Grow Significantly A notable increase in health awareness among consumers in Europe has been noticed during the pandemic. By empowering people and making better ways of accessing healthcare, self-care has the potential to meet these challenges. The growth of European healthcare cold chain logistics is a result of these reasons. People are looking proactively for ways to manage their health, which has led to a growth in the demand for self-care and OTC pharmaceuticals. Consequently, OTC pharmaceutical consumption in Europe has become more accessible to consumers as a result of the development of e-commerce platforms. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the convenience of individuals buying healthcare products through electronic platforms. As per industry experts, in 2023, OTC pharmaceuticals consumption increased from USD 50.46 billion in 2022 to USD 52.72 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 54.79 billion in 2024. Governments across the region are also supporting market players. For instance, in November 2023, the Swedish Government expanded the use of naloxone spray that reverses opioid overdose. To offer a wider range of medicines for common illnesses such as pain relief, cough and cold, allergies, digestive disorders, and more, pharmaceutical companies in Europe are expanding their OTC product portfolio. As a result, stringent and efficient cold chain logistics systems are increasingly in demand. Germany is Set to Lead Pharmaceuticals Production In 2022, pharmaceutical production in Germany was valued at its highest at EUR 37.4 billion (USD 40.31 billion). According to Strategy 4.0, published in November 2023, the German Government is also discussing a new Pharma Strategy with a number of reforms to improve the conditions for the pharmaceutical industry in Germany. The increase in pharmaceutical production is due to the growing instances of chronic diseases and increased emphasis on prevention and self-medication for disease. In addition, the country's growth has been driven by an increase in the use of OTC medicines. In addition, government support for research and development helps speed up the development of medicines. In 2022, according to a 2023 article published by Eurostat, across the EU, the total government budget allocations for R&D (GBARD) stood at EUR 117.37 billion (USD 126.52 billion), equivalent to 0.74% of GDP. An increase of 5.4% compared with 2021. Europe Healthcare Cold Chain Logistics Industry Overview The market for healthcare cold chain logistics in Europe is competitive, owing to the presence of various companies. The healthcare cold chain logistics industry in Europe may have high barriers to entry due to the need for specialized infrastructure, temperature-controlled storage facilities, and compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. To be competitive efficiently, newcomers would need to invest significantly in technology, expertise, and facilities. New entrants face the challenge of stringent regulations and compliance standards, including guidelines on Good Distribution Practice (GDP) guidelines. The primary growth tactics used by businesses to maintain their competitiveness are the integration of technologies, worldwide network expansion, and modernization of cold storage centers. Several European healthcare cold chain logistics market players are headquartered in Germany, such as DB Schenker and Rhenus Logistics. DHL International GmbH and Kuehne + Nagel are among the most important players in this sector. Key Topics Covered 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Study Deliverables 1.2 Study Assumptions 1.3 Scope of the Study 2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 4 MARKET INSIGHTS 4.1 Current Market Scenario 4.2 Technological Trends 4.3 Industry Value Chain Analysis 4.4 Government Regulations and Initiatives 4.5 Spotlight on Ambient/Temperature-controlled Storage 4.6 Insights into Refrigerants and Packaging Materials Used in Refrigerated Warehouses 4.7 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market 5 MARKET DYNAMICS 5.1 Drivers 5.1.1 Increasing Focus on Vaccine Distribution 5.1.2 Growing Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industries 5.2 Restraints 5.2.1 High Initial Capital Investment 5.2.2 Risk of Temperature Excursions 5.3 Opportunities 5.3.1 E-commerce Growth in Healthcare 5.4 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis 6 MARKET SEGMENTATION 6.1 By Product 6.1.1 Biopharmaceuticals 6.1.2 Vaccines 6.1.3 Clinical Trial Materials 6.2 By Services 6.2.1 Transportation 6.2.2 Storage 6.2.3 Value Added Services (Packaging and Labeling) 6.3 By End User 6.3.1 Hospitals, Clinics and Pharmaceuticals 6.3.2 Biopharmaceutical 6.3.3 Biotechnology 6.4 By Country 6.4.1 Germany 6.4.2 France 6.4.3 Spain 6.4.4 Rest of Europe 7 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE 7.1 Overview (Market Concentration and Major Players) 7.2 Company Profiles 7.2.1 Carrier Transicold 7.2.2 Primafrio 7.2.3 Alloga 7.2.4 Kuehne + Nagel 7.2.5 Cavalier Logistics 7.2.6 Marken Ltd 7.2.7 Biocair 7.2.8 DB Schenker 7.2.9 DHL 7.2.10 Envirotainer 7.3 Other Companies 8 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS 9 APPENDIX For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/t4bkln 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. Columbia Falls, Maine, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wreaths Across America (WAA), the national nonprofit whose year-long mission is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach our children the value of freedom, proudly announces its theme for 2025: Keep Moving Forward. Each year, millions of volunteers and patriots gather in local, state, and national cemeteries across all 50 states and abroad to pay tribute to our nations service members and their families. This years theme was inspired by the last words of Captain Joshua Byers, United States Army, KIA, in Fallujah, Iraq, July 23, 2003. In 2024, we learned about ten bouquets that make up a veterans wreath. WAA believes these ten attributes or characteristics define our nations servicemembers a symbol of honor, respect and victory. This poem was initially written by the organizations founder, Morrill Worcester, for Mary and Lloyd Byers, Gold Star parents of Capt. Byers. It is only fitting that the theme for 2025 should reflect this same spirit, a call to action for our volunteers and supporters in the communities they serve. Joshua Byers was the Company Commander of Fox Troop in the 2/3ACR service in Iraq in 2003 when an IED struck his Humvee. As the smoke filled the air, Josh gave his driver a last command: keep moving forward. Though Josh didnt make it home, this command saved lives and became a battle cry for his unit and family. There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities and a country, but we must keep moving forward together, said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. This year, we will share not only the Byers story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward. In 2024, over three million sponsored veterans wreaths were placed by volunteers on headstones at 4,909 participating locations worldwide. Wreaths Across America volunteers tirelessly work year-round to Remember, Honor, and Teach, with each name spoken out loud in grateful acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by our veterans for our freedoms. Follow the impactful stories of volunteers and supporters living with purpose throughout the year using the hashtag #KeepMovingForward. Then, tune in to Wreaths Across America Radio, available on the iHeart Radio app, TuneIn, and the Audacy app, or listen at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/radio. Mary and Lloyd Byers will join Karen Worcester on her weekly radio program Mission Matters, this Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 10 am and 7 pm ET. If you miss it, you can listen anytime on the Wreaths Radio SoundCloud page. National Wreaths Across America Day will be held this year on Saturday, December 13, 2025. This free event is open to all, and the organization encourages community members to participate by volunteering locally or sponsoring a wreath for an American hero. # # # About Wreaths Across America Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, which was begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organizations yearling mission Remember, Honor, Teach is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December in communities in all 50 states and beyond. For more information or to sponsor a wreath, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. NOTES TO MEDIA: Please visit our Media Resources Page to download background, photos, logos, or other items to help you file your story. Interview opportunities are available upon request. Attachment Dublin, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Silicone Companies in China" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This study focuses on China's Silicone industry assessments and company profiles. In the two past decades, the industry has been growing at a fast pace. The dramatic expansions of the manufacturing capabilities and rising consumer consumptions in China have transformed China's society and economy. China is one of the world's major producers for industrial and consumer products. Far outpacing other economies in the world, China is the world's fastest growing market for the consumptions of goods and services. The Chinese economy maintains a high speed growth which has been stimulated by the consecutive increases of industrial output, imports & exports, consumer consumption and capital investment for over two decades. Rapid consolidation between medium and large players is anticipated since the Chinese government has been encouraging industry consolidation with an effort to regulate the industry and to improve competitiveness in the world market. Although China has enjoyed the benefits of an expanding market for production and distribution, the industry is suffering from minimal innovation and investment in R&D and new product development. The sector's economies of scale have yet to be achieved. Most domestic manufacturers lack the autonomic intellectual property and financial resources to develop their own brand name products. This new study analyzes the industry structure, capacities and output. Major producers' production locations, market shares and profiles are presented. Select Companies Featured: Jiangsu Hongda Chemical Co.,Ltd DongJue Silicone Co, Ltd Key Topics Covered: SILICONE INDUSTRY ASSESSMENTS Silicone Industry Structure Market Size Market Growth Driver Silicone Industry Capacity Major Producer Facility Locations, Output and Capacity Market Share of Key Producers Labor Cost Potential Entrants Major End-Users Major Foreign Investments Technology Development SILICONE PRODUCER DIRECTORY Silicone Producer Profiles and Directory Major End-Users LIST OF TABLES INTRODUCTION Economic Outlook Summary SILICONE INDUSTRY ASSESSMENTS China's Key Silicone Producer Output China Silicone Industry Capacities and Output by Classification China Silicone Manufacturers Spread and Output by Province China Top Silicone Manufacturer Location by Province Major Silicone Producer Output and Capacities Market Share of Key Producers China's Silicone Consumption by markets Major Foreign Investment in China LIST OF CHARTS INTRODUCTION China's Silicone Capacity and Output Silicone Output by Products Summary SILICONE INDUSTRY ASSESSMENTS Silicone Capacity and Output China's Silicone products Classification and Output China's Silicone Capacity and Output Silicone Capacity in China China's Key Silicone producer Location by Province China's Silicone Consumption by Market For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jbihd 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. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. (West Red Lake Gold or the Company) (TSXV: WRLG) (OTCQB: WRLGF) is pleased to announce the results of the pre-feasibility study (PFS) prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) for the imminent restart of its 100% owned Madsen Mine project in the Red Lake Gold District of northwestern Ontario, Canada. West Red Lake Gold will hold a conference call on January 8th at 11:00am ET, followed by a question-and-answer period. To access the call, please register here: https://www.amvestcapital.com/webinar-directory/westredlakegoldmines010825. The webinar will be archived for viewing at www.westredlakegold.com All dollar amounts in this news release are in Canadian dollars ($) unless otherwise indicated. The effective date of the PFS is December 31, 2024, and a technical report relating to the PFS will be filed on SEDAR+ within 45 days of this news release. Madsen Mine PFS Highlights: Strong Value Underlines Mine Restart Rationale : Post-tax net present value ( NPV ) (5%) of $315 million at a long-term gold price of US$2,200 per oz. reinforces the rationale to restart the Madsen Mine imminently based on this initial mine plan; potential for Madsen to grow beyond this initial plan with further definition and exploration drilling strengthens the rationale : Post-tax net present value ( ) (5%) of $315 million at a long-term gold price of US$2,200 per oz. reinforces the rationale to restart the Madsen Mine imminently based on this initial mine plan; potential for Madsen to grow beyond this initial plan with further definition and exploration drilling strengthens the rationale High Grade Mine : Diluted head grade averages 8.2 g/t gold : Diluted head grade averages 8.2 g/t gold Average Annual Production : 67,600 oz. gold per year over 6 years of full production, within a 7.2-year mine life : 67,600 oz. gold per year over 6 years of full production, within a 7.2-year mine life Strong Free Cash Flows : $69.5 million average annual free cash flow from an operation with average total operating cost of US$919 per oz. and average all-in sustaining cost ( AISC ) of US$1681 per oz. : $69.5 million average annual free cash flow from an operation with average total operating cost of US$919 per oz. and average all-in sustaining cost ( ) of US$1681 per oz. Construction and Capital Investment to Mine Startup Substantially Complete . Bulk sample currently being mined; mill startup to process bulk sample planned in March; 21 km of modern underground development (since 2019) provides good mining access and represents significant time and cost savings . Bulk sample currently being mined; mill startup to process bulk sample planned in March; 21 km of modern underground development (since 2019) provides good mining access and represents significant time and cost savings Production Start Date : Q2 2025 : Q2 2025 Actual Costs: The Company has been operating underground for 16 months and the mill operated in 2022, which enabled a PFS based on realized costs for most operating metrics. The Company has been operating underground for 16 months and the mill operated in 2022, which enabled a PFS based on realized costs for most operating metrics. Significant Upside Potential: There are multiple opportunities to extend mine life and enhance the economic returns of the Madsen Mine, including 1.1 million ounces of indicated resource that remain outside of this initial mine plan, resource growth near reserves and existing infrastructure, discovering new high-grade, near mine zones that add to the mine plan such as the Upper 8 Zone, and using a higher reserve cut-off price (the PFS used US$1680 per oz.). West Red Lake Gold has worked intensely over the last 16 months to greatly improve our knowledge of the orebody and de-risk the project with the objective of executing a successful restart of the Madsen Mine, and this PFS is the culmination of that effort, said Shane Williams, President and CEO. This initial reserve mine plan only taps well defined and tightly drilled parts of the deposit relatively close to existing workings and still generates robust margins based on a production rate of approximately 70,000 oz. per year that generate almost $400 million in post-tax free cash flow over a 7-year mine life. Initial capital is low because the capital projects needed for restart are well advanced or already complete. That is unusual for a PFS-level project, as is having already completed 58,000 metres of definition drilling and detailed engineering to define 18 months of mineable inventory on a stope-by-stope level. We are excited to deliver a PFS that solidifies Madsen as a rare high-grade gold mine starting production in 2025. We built a realistic and achievable plan for this first mining opportunity at Madsen that we are confident we can deliver and that will justify returning the mine to production. Beyond that, we strongly believe Madsen has potential to grow well beyond this initial plan in the coming years as we source new resources and reserves near existing infrastructure while also gaining access to the deeper parts of the system, where notable upside optionality remains untapped. The PFS was prepared by independent consultants SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc., with input from AllNorth Consultants Ltd (infrastructure), T-Engineering Ltd (backfill), Nordmin Engineering Ltd (shaft), Fuse Advisors (processing), Mining Plus (mine design support), and Knight Piesold (tailings and waste rock). Economic Results and Sensitivities Table 1 summarizes the projected production and economic results of the PFS for this initial Madsen Mine plan. Figure 1 shows the Madsen Mine cash flow profile by year. Table 1: Madsen Mine Key Economic Assumptions and Results Mine Life yrs 7.25 Total Ore Mined million tonnes 1.823 Steady State Processing Rate tpd 800 Average Head Grade Au g/t 8.16 Gold Recovery % 95.7% Average Annual Gold oz / year 67,600 Total Payable Gold oz. 457,851 Total Operating Cost US$/oz 919 Long Term Gold Price US$/oz $2,200 Gross Revenue C$M $1,480 Net Revenue C$M $1,465 Initial Capital C$M $44.1 Sustaining Capital C$M $434 Average AISC US$/oz $1,681 Cumulative Net Cash Flow (pre-tax) C$M $392 Cumulative Net Cash Flow (post-tax) C$M $391 NPV (post-tax) C$M $315 IRR (post-tax) % 255% Discounted Payback Period yrs Less than 1 Figure 1: Madsen Mine Cash Flow Profile by Year Upside Potential The Madsen Mine project hosts probable reserves of 1.823 million tonnes grading 8.16 g/t gold, containing 478,000 oz. gold. This compares to an indicated resource of 6.9 million M&I tonnes grading 7.4 g/t gold hosting 1.65 million oz. gold, plus an inferred resource of 1.8 million tonnes grading 6.3 g/t gold hosting 366,200 oz. gold. West Red Lake Gold sees two opportunities to potentially convert more of the Madsen Mine resource into reserves. First, the PFS defines reserves using a gold price cut-off of US$1680 per oz.1 This highly conservative gold price cut-off resulted in significant portions of the indicated resource being excluded from the mineable reserve. Sensitivity analysis shows that increasing the cut-off price to US$1900 per oz. increases reserves sufficient to add approximately two years to the mine plan. Second, there are many distal portions of the Madsen resource that would require access through un- or undertested areas with high geologic potential for mineralization. West Red Lake Gold plans to drill test these areas; success delineating mineralization in these gaps has the potential to transform additional resource areas into economic reserves while also growing the resource base. Notable underground expansion drilling is planned for 2025 from three key areas: 1) Connection Drift, 2) East Ramp decline targeting down-plunge North Austin, and 3) East Exploration Drive from 13L to access lower Austin and eastern extensions of main deposit. The combination of delineating new mineralization in undertested gaps, extending known reserve areas, and converting more resources to reserves has the potential to add ounces and extend mine life via (1) reducing the access development needed per tonne of ore mined and (2) supporting increased flexibility between lower-cost Longhole Stoping (LHS) and Mechanized Cut and Fill (MCF). Currently, the PFS outlines 59% MCF and 41% LHS. In addition, the PFS only considers four of the seven deposits that make up the Madsen resource (Austin, South Austin, McVeigh, and 8 Zone). Other deposits at the Madsen Mine site could potentially be included in a future mine plan, such as the Fork deposit where West Red Lake Gold recently identified a high-grade portion located 250 metres away from existing underground workings. The recent Upper 8 discovery also has potential to become a shallow zone of high-grade mineralization. Additionally, the Company owns the Rowan Project that is 80 km away by road and hosts indicated resources of 476,323 tonnes grading 12.78 g/t gold hosting 195,746 oz. gold and inferred resources of 410,794 tonnes grading 8.76 g/t gold hosting 115,719 oz. gold. West Red Lake Gold sees strong potential to expand the Madsen Mine beyond the operation defined in this PFS if future drilling, engineering, and permitting demonstrates it is economic to include additional zones into an updated mine plan. The PFS is based on 800 tpd throughput; the Madsen Mill has nameplate capacity of 1,089tpd. Mining The mine will operate as a mechanized underground operation with a steady state production rate of 800 tonnes of mineralized material per day operating for 7.25 years. Mining will be a combination of mechanized cut-and-fill (59%) and long hole stoping (41%). The minimum mining width is 2 metres. Average stope width varies with mining method from 3.2 metres to 7.2 metres. Ore is moved to surface via a combination of ramp trucking and shaft skipping. Trucking will be utilised above 8 Level. Material from 8 Level and below will be trucked to a Main Shaft loading pocket at 12 Level and from there skipped to surface. Rehabilitation of the Madsen Main Shaft is well underway. The PFS includes the cost for the continued rehabilitation and refurbishment of Madsen Main Shaft to allow for skipping from 12 Level. The Main Shaft is currently dewatered to 15 Level; dewatering will continue to allow for access to the lowest levels of the mine. Once the mine is dewatered on 20 Level, a new shaft will be excavated to surface in two lifts using raiseboring methods. This Madsen East Shaft will supply ventilation to the lower reaches of the mine, allow for skipping of material and slinging of heavy equipment, and allow for possible future expansion at depth. Steady state waste production is approximately 1,200 tpd. Care has been taken to optimize the backfill of waste rock into historic stopes and new excavations. The existing Madsen mill contains a working Hydraulic Fill (HF) plant that the previous owners commissioned (but did not use). West Red Lake Gold will recommission the plant to pipe HF to the historic voids underground. HF is a way of backfilling underground workings using tailings from the mill, adding a binder (a low percentage of cement), and pumping the resulting slurry back underground. HF backfill provides an environmentally friendly way of disposing of tailings and provides a stable geotechnical environment for mining. Once the HF is decanted and cured, it is strong enough to mine immediately adjacent to, allowing the Company to optimize the extraction of ore around old stopes. The mine is primarily ventilated via the Madsen Main Shaft and the West Ramp. The main fans are situated underground, on 12 Level. Air is downcast through the Main Shaft and is allowed to exhaust via the ramp. Once completed in year 4, the East Shaft will significantly enhance the ventilation to the lower reaches of the mine. A connection between the West and East ramps is being driven (the Connection Drift) that will assist in efficiencies for ventilation between the two districts. Currently, the East section of the mine (a much smaller section) is ventilated via the West through old workings. The air heater is situated near the Madsen Main shaft on surface. Processing At steady state operation, an average of 800 tpd of material will be processed in a plant that consists of primary crushing, followed by grinding to 80% passing 75 m using a semi-autogenous grinding mill and ball mill. Gravity concentration will recover gold from the SAG screen undersize and ball mill discharge. Cyclone overflow will be thickened to 50% solids in a pre-leach thickener, then pre-aerated with oxygen followed by a 24-hour cyanide leach at a cyanide concentration of 150-170 ppm and a pH of 11.0 in five leach tanks. Gold in solution will then be recovered via carbon-in-pulp (CIP) adsorption in six CIP tanks with a residence time of five hours, followed by acid wash, elution, and refining to produce gold dore on site. After cyanide destruction, the CIP tailings will be pumped to the tailings management facility initially. Starting later in year 1, a thickened tailings will be pumped into open stopes using a hydraulic backfill system. The process plant gold recovery is estimated to average 95.7% over the LOM. Figure 2: Average Annual Ore Production and Grade Infrastructure The Madsen Mine is adjacent to the community of Madsen, within the Red Lake Municipality of northwestern Ontario. Highway 618, a paved and provincially maintained road, connects the community and mine to the town of Red Lake 10 km to the northeast. Mining and mineral exploration is the primary industry in the Red Lake region; as a result, there is a full range of services and supplies for mineral exploration and mining and a strong pool of skilled labour. All infrastructure needed to restart the Madsen Mine pursuant to this PFS plan is already in place. The mine has two underground access portals with ramps, over 21 km of modern underground development (from 2019 onward), a 1,275-metre shaft with a retrofitted and functional hoist mechanism, a processing facility with nameplate 1,089-tpd capacity built 2019-2020 (currently permitted for 800 tpd operations), a tailings facility also built 2019-2020 that saw a 4-foot dam lift in summer 2024, an office complex, a geology and core logging compound, and basic mine dry, maintenance, and warehouse facilities. Further infrastructure projects currently underway include a 1.2-km tunnel that connects the two portals (on track for completion in March 2025), a 114-person workforce accommodations facility (on track for completion mid-February 2025), and a mine dry facility (on track for completion end February 2025). The Madsen Mine is connected via a dedicated substation to the provincial hydroelectrical power grid and will access power at $0.12 per kilowatt hour. Workforce The Madsen Mine is expected to utilize a workforce of 221 people during steady state operations. There are currently approximately 140 workers employed, of which approximately 60% live locally. Tailings and Mine Rock Tailings will be managed through a combination of surface storage in the Tailings Management Facility (TMF) and underground deposition as hydraulic backfill. The TMF at the Madsen Mine is permitted to discharge tailings and will be expanded to manage a total of 1.6 Mt. The TMF is partitioned into two designated areas, Cell A and the Main TMF. Containment for the first four years of tailings deposition will be provided in Cell A, with the remainder of the tailings managed in the Main TMF. Cell A is fully constructed and ready for operation, including a 4-meter dam raise that was completed in summer 2024. The Main Dam will be constructed downstream of the existing polishing pond dams in year 4 to raise the perimeter crest elevation of the TMF and provide storage capacity for the remaining tailings. The two areas of the TMF offer sufficient capacity for supernatant ponds, surplus water storage, and flood water management. Mine rock from underground development will be managed in the underground mine as backfill (42%) and stored in the existing mine rock management facility located adjacent to the TMF (58%). Multiple void historic stopes create good opportunity to store waste rock underground, thereby reducing costs. Capital Expenditure Modest expenditure requirement remains to get the Madsen Mine into production, slated for Q2 2025. Outstanding costs are modest because the historic Madsen Mine was rebuilt from 2019-2020, operating until late 2022 before shutting down. The rebuild established significant new infrastructure at the site, including the 800-tpd process plant, the West Portal, the tailings management facility, the water treatment plant, and 19 km of underground workings. Since purchasing the Madsen Mine in June 2023, West Red Lake Gold has invested significant capital into projects the Company identified as necessary for a successful restart. This includes a 4-meter dam raise in Cell A of the TMF, a new primary crusher, the 1.2-km Connection Drift, a camp, a mine dry facility, many additions to the mining fleet, and over 2 km of underground workings. Sustaining Capital The mine requires $434 million in sustaining capital over its 7.2-year mine life, of which $9.1 million is closure and rehabilitation costs. Mining development, additional equipment, replacement units, and major repairs make up the consistent parts of sustaining capital. Rehabilitation of the Main Shaft and development of the East Shaft are the largest capital projects during the life of mine. West Red Lake Gold has already rehabilitated the hoisting mechanism in the headframe of the Main Shaft; the shaft itself now requires rehabilitation to be able to move material out of the mine starting in year 2. Year 1 see $22.5 million in sustaining capital allocated to this project. The East Shaft is developed in years 3 and 4, at an estimated cost of $52 million. It will be raisebored once bottom access has been established via Madsen Main shaft, resulting in significant savings compared to blind sinking a shaft. During operations, mining generally follows the mineralized system northeast and downplunge. By year 4 the ventilation system centered on the Main Shaft is no longer sufficient and so a new vent raise is required. A cost-benefit analysis found a net savings in developing a skipping shaft, versus a simple vent raise, because it would cost approximately $20 per tonne to truck material to surface from the Madsen Deeps area versus approximately $4 per tonne to hoist material. This difference covers the $20 million additional cost of the full shaft over the vent raise, making the capital project a net benefit in this mine plan. Beyond the PFS mine plan, the gold system at Madsen remains open at depth. Several deep historic intercepts returned good gold intercepts. If exploration is successful in defining resources downplunge of the reserves in this PFS, the East Shaft is well located to potentially render such resources economic to mine. Operating Costs Life of Mine (LOM) total operating cost is estimated at $322.67 per tonne of ore, as summarized in Table 2 below. The LOM total AISC is estimated to be US$1681 per oz. gold produced. As noted in the Upside Potential section, the Company sees strong potential to create a more continuous reserve body, through this drilling work and through the practical application of a higher reserve cut-off grade. Table 2: Operating Costs Mining $212.93 per tonne Processing $75.25 per tonne General & Administrative $33.90 per tonne Tailings $0.59 per tonne Total $322.67 per tonne Financial Analysis Using an average gold price of US$2317 per oz. and a US:CDN exchange rate of 1.4, the Madsen Mine project generates an after-tax NPV of $315 using 5% discount rate and an after-tax IRR of 255%. The Project generates cumulative post-tax net cash flow of $391 million and average annual free cash flow of $69.5 million over the 6-year full production period. Total taxes payable over the LOM at the assumed gold price are negligible because the combination of the significant tax losses that were acquired with the purchase of the project and the continued costs incurred on exploration and development cover the majority of the revenue considered in this mine plan. Table 3: Key Operating, Cost, and Revenue Metrics Total 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2030 2032 Mill Throughput (kt) 1,823 141.4 292.6 287.2 284.0 292.8 292.8 198.0 33.6 Average Grade (g/t) 8.16 8.2 7.2 7.8 8.0 7.9 7.8 11.7 6.0 Production (kozs) 457.9 35.3 63.6 67.7 70.0 70.8 70.8 73.2 6.4 Gold Price (US$ per oz.) $2317 (average) $2,600 $2500 $2450 $2200 $2200 $2200 $2200 $2200 Net Revenue ($M) $1,464.5 $127.1 $220.2 $229.8 $213.2 $215.8 $215.7 $223.1 $19.6 Operating Costs ($M) $588.1 $57.1 $89.7 $87.1 $89.5 $88.3 $90.8 $72.8 $12.7 Operating Cash Flow ($M) $876.4 $70.0 $130.5 $142.7 $123.7 $127.5 $124.9 $150.3 $6.9 Capital Expenditure + Working Capital ($M) $484.7 $90.4 $77.2 $91.8 $93.7 $58.5 $27.8 $28.3 $11.0 Free Cash Flow ($M) $391.8 $20.4 $53.3 $50.9 $30.0 $69.0 $97.1 $122.0 -$4.2 Average Annual Free Cash Flow (6 Full Production Years) ($M) $69.5 Table 4: Net Present Value ($M) Sensitivity to Gold Price, Opex, Capex -20% -10% 0% 10% 20% Gold Price $68 $192 $315 $407 $496 Opex $388 $352 $315 $267 $218 Capex $382 $349 $315 $272 $229 Table 5: Net Present Value ($M) Sensitivity to US:CDN Exchange Rate US:CDN Exchange Rate 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50 NPV (5%) $227 $271 $315 $349 $382 Permitting and Environment The Madsen Mine is permitted for operations. The Madsen Mine was put into Temporary Suspension, per the Mining Act, in October 2022. Since then, environmental monitoring and reporting have continued. It is expected that the Mine will transition from Temporary Suspension to Production status in Q1 2025. In preparation for restart, West Red Lake Gold has met with Madsen Mine stakeholders including Indigenous partners, the Madsen Advisory group, and the Municipality of Red Lake to communicate plans and receive input. The Company has worked to focus contracting on local suppliers where possible. Site plans for the new camp and mine dry were discussed with the community and approved by the Municipality. Public meetings have focused on communicating restart plans, with emphasis on employment opportunities. As part of future operations, West Red Lake Gold will update existing permits such as Environmental Compliance Approval for the Water Treatment Plant and the Closure Plan. Mineral Resource Estimate The mineral resource statement for the Madsen Mine deposits is provided in Table 6, with an effective date of December 31, 2021. The mineral resources have been adjusted to reflect the removal of all historical and recent production to the end of December 2021. The mineral resources are inclusive of mineral reserves and have been classified according to CIM Best Practise Guidelines (November 2019) and are reported as undiluted tonnes at a cut-off grade of 3.38 g/t gold and gold price of US$1800/oz. (Table 5). The mining activity from the effective date of the mineral resource until the suspension of the Madsen Mine has been deemed immaterial. Based on the mining records, 164,604 tonnes of ore at 3.8 g/t grade were processed, resulting in the production and sale of 20,301 ounces of gold. This production figure is not considered significant for the purpose of this report and the mining activity during the period from January 1, 2022 to the mines transition to care and maintenance on October 24, 2022 will not have a material impact on the mineral resource estimates presented in this report. Since the effective date of the mineral resource, additional diamond drilling was conducted until the mine closure on October 24, 2022. A total of 688 drill holes and 54,122 m of drilling was completed in 2022. An additional 205 drill holes and 19,872 m of drilling was completed by West Red Lake Gold between October 1, 2023 and May 15, 2024. Based on a review of the results of this drilling it has been determined by Cliff Revering, Qualified Person for the Madsen Mineral Resource Estimate, that the information obtained will not have a material impact on the mineral resource estimate presented in this report. Table 6: Mineral Resource Statement, Madsen Mine, Red Lake, Ontario, effective date December 31, 2021. Classification Deposit - Zone Tonnes Gold Grade (g/t) Gold Troy Ounces Indicated Madsen - Austin 4,147,000 6.9 914,200 Madsen -South Austin 1,696,000 8.7 474,600 Madsen - McVeigh 388,700 6.4 79,800 Madsen - 8 Zone 152,000 18 87,700 Fork 123,800 5.3 20,900 Russet 88,700 6.9 19,700 Wedge 313,700 5.6 56,100 Total Indicated 6,909,900 7.4 1,653,000 Inferred Madsen - Austin 504,800 6.5 104,900 Madsen -South Austin 114,100 8.7 31,800 Madsen - McVeigh 64,600 6.9 14,300 Madsen - 8 Zone 38,700 14.6 18,200 Fork 298,200 5.2 49,500 Russet 367,800 5.8 68,800 Wedge 431,100 5.7 78,700 Total Inferred 1,819,300 6.3 366,200 Mineral Reserve Estimate The mineral reserve statement for the Madsen Mine deposits is provided in Table 7, with an effective date of June 30, 2024. The mineral reserves have been adjusted to reflect the removal of all historical and recent production to the end of June 2024. The Life of Mine plan, which starts April 1, 2025, was also checked against the planned test mining program to ensure that any material extracted to March 31, 2025 was not from the mineral reserves. The mineral reserves have been estimated according to CIM Best Practice Guidelines (November 2019) and reported as diluted tonnes delivered to the mill. Access is via two existing ramps systems with the Madsen #2 Shaft currently being reconditioned down to 12-level (12L) to allow for skipping of ore in Q4 2025. A raisebored hoisting shaft (Madsen #3) is planned to allow future hoisting from 20L as Madsen #2 shaft does not have the required hoisting capacity from 24L. The current mineral reserves include ore down to 25L, which will be trucked up to the Madsen #3 Shaft for hoisting. Material sizing for both Madsen #2 and #3 shafts will utilize grizzlies and rockbreaker stations. Two underground mining methods are planned with 0.75 Mt (41%) being extracted by longhole (LH) mining methods and 1.07 Mt (59%) by mechanized cut-and-fill (MCF) mining methods. Stopes were designed using a LH cut-off grade of 4.30 g/t and a MCF cut-off grade of 5.28 g/t, using a gold price of US$1,680/oz. As a significant portion of the mining is remnant mining around historic workings, appropriate geotechnical constraints were also applied during the design process. LH stopes are longitudinal with an average mining width of 2.8 m, 35% dilution and 95% mining recovery. Dilution increases with depth. Three variations of the MCF mining method are defined based on the ground support requirements with operating costs estimated for each. These include: Normal MCF average width 4.4 m, good ground conditions Historic MCF average width 3.2 m, adjacent to filled historic stopes, requiring short rounds and in-cycle shotcrete 8 Zone MCF average width 7.2 m (= two 3.6 m wide cuts of drift-and-fill mining method due to squeezing ground conditions, requiring short rounds and heavy support) MCF stopes are designed to use a breasting method with variable width and 3.5 m high to allow for full mechanization. Average dilution is 22% with 97% mining recovery. Short 2.4 m rounds were selected for geotechnical reasons as well as challenging grade control due to there being no visual distinction between ore and waste. The normal MCF stopes assume that the round length can increase to 3 m in 2026 with the implementation of successful grade control procedures. Stephen Taylor, Principal Mining Engineer with SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc., has overseen the development of the mineral reserve estimate and the Life of Mine plan in his role as Independent Qualified Person for the Madsen Mineral Reserve Estimate. Table 7: Mineral Reserve Statement, Madsen Mine, Red Lake, Ontario (Effective date June 30, 2024) Classification Deposit - Zone Tonnes (kt) Gold Grade (g/t) Contained Metal (koz Au) Probable Madsen - Austin 778 7.37 184 Madsen - South Austin 861 8.21 227 Madsen - McVeigh 66 7.37 16 Madsen - 8 Zone 118 13.38 51 Total Reserves 1,823 8.16 478 Notes: Mineral Reserves estimated in accordance with CIM Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines, CIM, November 29, 2019. Longhole stope cut-off grade of 4.30 gpt Au based on an estimated operating cost of CAD287.34/t including mining, plant and G&A. The mining cost component was benchmarked based on an operating mine in Ontario. Mechanized Cut and Fill stope cut-off grade of 5.28 gpt Au based on an estimated operating cost of CAD354.90/t including mining, plant and G&A. Mineral reserve estimates based on a gold price of USD1680/oz and an exchange rate of 1.31 CAD/USD. Incremental development cut-off grade of 1 gpt Au. A small amount of incremental longhole tonnes were included at a cut-off grade of not less than 3.4 gpt Au, these must be immediately adjacent to economic stopes that will pay for the capital to access area. Qualified Persons The Prefeasibility Study was prepared for West Red Lake Gold by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. with input from AllNorth Consultants Ltd. (infrastructure), Nordmin Engineering Ltd. (shaft), Fuse Advisors (processing), and Knight Piesold Ltd. (tailings and waste rock). The following Qualified Persons (QPs) from these firms have reviewed and approved technical information provided on the Masden Mine prefeasibility study presented in this news release. Stephen Taylor, MSc., Peng. SRK Principal Engineer. Professional Registration: Professional Engineers of Ontario #90365834. Area of Responsibility underground mining (design, planning), underground mining cost estimate, mineral reserve statement, financial analysis Cliff Revering, P.Eng, CPAG, BE. SRK Geology Associate. Professional Registration: Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan #9764. Area of responsibility: geological resource and mineral resource statement Chris Dougherty, P.Eng. Nordmin President. Professional Registration: Professional Engineers of Ontario #90416876. Area of Responsibility: underground shaft rehabilitation and design (and associated cost estimate) Danny Ruane, P.Eng. Knight Piesold Ltd. Specialist Engineer. Professional Registration: Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia #100546532. Area of Responsibility: waste and water management, site-wide water balance (and associated cost estimate) Travis OFarrell. P.Eng. Fuse Advisors Engineer. Professional Registration: Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia #46026. Area of Responsibility: processing and metallurgy (and associated cost estimate) The technical content of this press release has been prepared, reviewed, and approved by Mr. Will Robinson, P.Geo., Vice President Exploration of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd., and by Mr. Maurice Mostert, P.Eng., Vice President Technical Services of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. ABOUT WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd. is a mineral exploration company that is publicly traded and focused on advancing and developing its flagship Madsen Gold Mine and the associated 47 km2 highly prospective land package in the Red Lake district of Ontario. The highly productive Red Lake Gold District of Northwest Ontario, Canada has yielded over 30 million ounces of gold from high-grade zones and hosts some of the worlds richest gold deposits. WRLG also holds the wholly owned Rowan Property in Red Lake, with an expansive property position covering 31 km2 including three past producing gold mines Rowan, Mount Jamie, and Red Summit. ON BEHALF OF WEST RED LAKE GOLD MINES LTD. Shane Williams Shane Williams President & Chief Executive Officer FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Gwen Preston Vice President Communications Tel: (604) 609-6132 Email: investors@wrlgold.com or visit the Companys website at https://www.westredlakegold.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. QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL Drilling completed underground at the Madsen Mine consists of BQ-sized diamond drill core for definition drill programs and oriented NQ-sized diamond drill core for exploration focused drilling. All drill holes are systematically logged, photographed, and sampled by a trained geologist at the Madsen Mine core processing facility. Minimum allowable sample length is 0.5m. Maximum allowable sample length is 1.5m. Control samples (certified standards and uncertified blanks), along duplicates, are inserted at a target 5% insertion rate. Results are assessed for accuracy, precision, and contamination on an ongoing basis. The BQ-sized drill core is whole core sampled. The NQ-sized drill core is then cut lengthwise utilizing a diamond blade core saw along a line pre-selected by the geologist. To reduce sampling bias, the same side of drill core is sampled consistently utilizing the orientation line as reference. For those samples containing visible gold (VG), a trained geologist supervises the cutting/bagging of those samples, and ensures the core saw blade is cleaned with a dressing stone following the VG sample interval. Bagged samples are then sealed with zip ties and transported by Madsen Mine personnel directly to SGS Natural Resources Facility in Red Lake, Ontario for assay. Samples are then prepped by SGS, which consists of drying at 105C and crushing to 75% passing 2mm. A riffle splitter is then utilized to produce a 500g course reject for archive. The remainder of the sample is then pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns from which 50g is analyzed by fire assay and an atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) finish (SGS Code GO-FAA50V10). Samples returning gold values > 100 g/t Au are reanalyzed by fire assay with a gravimetric finish on a 50g sample (SGS Code GO_FAG50V). Samples with visible gold are also analyzed via metallic screen analysis (SGS code: GO_FAS50M). For multi-element analysis, samples are sent to SGSs facility in Burnaby, British Columbia and analyzed via four-acid digest with an atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) finish for 33-element analysis on 0.25g sample pulps (SGS code: GE_ICP40Q12). SGS Natural Resources analytical laboratories operates under a Quality Management System that complies with ISO/IEC 17025. The Madsen Mine deposit presently hosts a National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) Indicated resource of 1.65 million ounces (Moz) of gold grading 7.4 g/t Au and an Inferred resource of 0.37 Moz of gold grading 6.3 g/t Au. Mineral resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 3.38 g/t Au and a gold price of US1,800/oz. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Please refer to the technical report entitled Independent NI 43-101 Technical Report and Updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the PureGold Mine, Canada, prepared by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. and dated June 16, 2023, and amended April 24, 2024 (the Madsen Report). The Madsen Resource Estimate has an effective date of December 31, 2021 and excludes depletion of mining activity during the period from January 1, 2022 to the mine closure on October 24, 2022 as it has been deemed immaterial and not relevant for the purpose of the Madsen Report. A full copy of the Madsen Report is available on the Companys website and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as anticipate, expect, estimate, forecast, planned, and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this news release and include without limitation, statements relating to the Companys intended use of proceeds from the Credit Facility; final approval of the Loan Bonus Warrants by the TSXV, plans for the potential restart of mining operations at the Madsen Mine, the potential of the Madsen Mine; any untapped growth potential in the Madsen deposit or Rowan deposit; and the Companys future objectives and plans. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility; the state of the financial markets for the Companys securities; fluctuations in commodity prices; timing and results of the cleanup and recovery at the Madsen Mine; and changes in the Companys business plans. Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions, including without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and its ability to raise additional capital to proceed. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Companys managements discussion and analysis for the year ended November 30, 2023, and the Companys annual information form for the year ended November 30, 2023, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects managements current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Companys continuous disclosure filings that are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. __________ 1 SRK determines a reserve cut-off price based on the Energy and Metals Consensus Forecast from Consensus Economics Inc. dated April 2024, when the mine design parameters for this PFS were established. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/59a8cc10-7ce2-4835-8af4-1ad0643060ee https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/530cc0a9-5efc-4bc6-b2e6-4dc0b887bd3d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/650795ba-6d0c-4f55-9d66-df6447b32ec2 LOS ANGELES, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Go Rentals is marking a monumental milestone in 2025 celebrating its 30th anniversary of delivering exceptional service and innovation in the aviation and hospitality sectors. To add to this momentous year, Go Rentals CEO Kaye Gitibin has been recognized with one of the industrys highest honors, receiving the Eren Ozmen Aviation Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the 22nd Living Legends of Aviation Awards. This prestigious award is evidence to Gitibins groundbreaking contributions to aviation and his unwavering commitment to service excellence. Its a celebration of a journey defined by vision, perseverance, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of aviation while inspiring innovation and setting new standards of excellence for generations to come. The award ceremony, which takes place on Friday, January 17th, 2025, at the Beverly Hiltons International Ballroom in Beverly Hills, California, will not only celebrate Gitibins outstanding achievements but also highlight the companys impressive legacy and growth over the past three decades. Hosted by John Travolta, the Official Ambassador of Aviation, The Living Legends of Aviation Awards is recognized as the "Academy Awards of Aviation." It celebrates individuals and organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to the aviation and aerospace industries. Joining Mr. Gitibin on the distinguished list of past honorees are legendary aviation pioneers, entrepreneurs, astronauts, record-setters, and celebrity aviators, including icons such as Buzz Aldrin, The Duke of Sussex, and Jeff Bezos. This recognition reflects the passion, hard work, and innovation that define the Go Rentals team, said Kaye Gitibin. We have worked tirelessly to redefine vehicle rental experiences for private aviation clients, and to be recognized among such transformative figures in the industry is both humbling and inspiring. Under Kaye Gitibin's leadership, Go Rentals has redefined personalized vehicle rental services for private aviation travelers, creating a gold standard for convenience, style, and exceptional service. By integrating seamlessly with FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) and prioritizing a service-first ethos, the company has expanded to over 250 locations across the U.S., transforming the way private aviation clients travel on the ground. With ambitious plans for international growth in both Canada and Europe, Gitibin is leading Go Rentals into a future of global innovation while remaining steadfast in its commitment to guest excellence. Gitibins recognition by the Living Legends of Aviation is not only proof of his leadership but also a deeply personal acknowledgment of his unwavering vision for elevating the travel experience. This honor highlights his role in disrupting traditional models, setting a new benchmark in travel, and demonstrating that innovation and heart can reshape an entire industry. About Go Rentals Go Rentals sets the gold standard in service as the only Official Elite Rental Car Company recognized by Forbes Travel Guide. Serving over 250 locations across the country, Go Rentals is driven to exceed the needs of travelers with an exceptional selection of high-quality vehicles backed by remarkable, personalized service. Go Rentals was founded in 1995 to meet a clear need for a high-touch, quality vehicle rental service for discerning business and leisure travelers. Since its launch, Go Rentals has grown into a leading rental service company with unrivaled knowledge, experience, and passion for aviation and hospitality. Media Contact Jake Feffer Jakef@bastionagency.com MADISON, Wis., Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) unveils the 2025 Wisconsin Cheese Trends Report , offering a forward-thinking analysis of the innovations, flavor trends, and consumer preferences driving the future of the cheese industry. "We constantly track trend research to identify emerging opportunities and strategically position Wisconsin to meet the evolving market needs," says Suzanne Fanning, Chief Marketing Officer for Wisconsin Cheese and Executive Vice President of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. "As we look to next year, weve uncovered five key consumer insights in the cheese industry that well focus on to continue delighting food enthusiasts worldwide." Focusing on innovation and tradition, the report offers a glimpse into the evolving world of cheese and how Wisconsin remains at the forefront. From global cheese renaissance to mood-boosting snacking, the 2025 Wisconsin Cheese Trends Report explores consumer behaviors ripe for cheese implementation. For example, the research reveals that 64% of consumers are eager to try new products that incorporate old-world recipes, offering significant potential to explore creative new expressions of classic cheese varieties. The report even offers ways to taste each trend. To dive deeper into the insights, read the full trends report powered by Innova Market Insights by visiting wisconsindairy.org/cheesetrends . ### About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW)/Proudly Wisconsin Cheese is a non-profit organization funded entirely by Wisconsin's dairy farmers. As the leading organization representing the state's dairy industry, DFW/Wisconsin Cheese focuses on marketing and promoting Wisconsin's world-class dairy products, including cheese. For more information, visit www.wisconsincheese.com . Attachment Charleston, SC, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Those who seek truth and the freedom it brings in this world are looking for a key to unshackle their minds, and if you haven't looked past your own culture, you may be missing something in plain sight. I am not particularly wise. Im just a Hippie artist who loves to research interesting topics, said author Sharron Montague Loree. And I have fallen in love with an artform called proverbs. Sharrons This Emerging Wisdom compiles over 500 unique proverbs from around the world that illustrate meaningful life lessons, like: Everyone smiles and laughs in the same language. Be someone's miracle. Do your best, then, don't worry, be happy. When I became curious about multicultural wisdom [I found that] wisdom is not stuffy; it is down-to-earth, basic, and essential. Used as a coffee table book, meditation guide, or daily prayer, these proverbs can help any reader grow their self-awareness. This Emerging Wisdom is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com. About the Author: Sharron Montague Loree was born in Detroit, Michigan. When Sharron graduated from Edwin Denby High School, her photo was in the Detroit News, because she had won so many art awards in a yearly national competition. After high school, Sharron attended Art School For The Society Of Arts And Crafts in Detroit, then she attended Wayne State University, also in Detroit. Sharron obtained a Bachelor Of Science Degree In Psychological Studies from Empire State College in New York. Sharron has a daughter, a son and a granddaughter who all help make the world a better place. Sharron is a painter. Throughout her life she has been employed as a nursery school teacher. She was a live-aboard in a commercial fishing marina in Redondo Beach, California. Now, Sharron lives in a small town in The Mojave Desert in Southern California. Media Contact: Sharron Montague Loree sharronmontagueloree@gmail.com Available for interviews: Author, Sharron Montague Loree Attachment VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brixton Metals Corporation (TSX-V: BBB, OTCQB: BBBXF) (the Company or Brixton) is pleased to announce exploration results provided by operator Ivanhoe Electric Inc. (Ivanhoe Electric) (NYSE American: IE; TSX: IE), on the Hog Heaven Project. The road-accessible project is located in Flathead County, 50 miles southwest of the town of Kalispell, northwestern Montana, USA. Highlights below are sourced and further defined by Ivanhoe Electrics press release dated January 6, 2025. Highlights Exploration drilling at the Hog Heaven Project in Montana included approximately 14,000 meters in eleven drill holes (Figure 1). Exploration drilling in the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project intersected a porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum system within a large, deep Typhoon-identified anomaly. Exploration drilling in the Flathead Mine area included drill holes HHD-012 through to HHD-016, which intersected broad intervals of epithermal-type low-grade precious metals-bearing polymetallic sulphide mineralization hosted in veins, breccia matrix fill, and disseminations. Ivanhoe Electric has leased a further 4,925 acres of private surface and mineral rights from a private owner, consolidating the district and providing additional access to areas prospective for porphyry systems. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Gary R. Thompson, stated, Drilling at the Hog Heaven Project continues to deliver highly encouraging copper-gold results. The multiple phases of porphyry at the Battle Butte Area are typical in these types of mineralizing systems and key next steps would be to isolate the high-grade copper-gold porphyry phase. Initial drilling at the Battle Butte Area, HHD-017 through to HHD-022, has intersected a porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum system (Battle Butte Porphyry) associated with a large, 1,500 meters by 1,000 meters Typhoon conductivity anomaly at 1,200 meters depth (Figure 2). Mineralization is related to a series of variably mineralized and altered porphyry intrusives and hydrothermal breccias hosting gold-bearing copper, iron, and molybdenum sulphides as breccia matrix, sheeted to stockwork veining and as disseminations. Hole HHD-018: returned 286.0m of 0.14% copper, 0.14 g/t gold, 0.01% molybdenum, and 1.70 g/t of silver from 947.0m depth. Including 97.9m of 0.21% copper, 0.20 g/t gold, 0.01% molybdenum and 2.79 g/t silver from 947.0m. Hole HHD-019 returned 680.0m of 0.09% copper, 0.06 g/t gold, 0.02% molybdenum, and 0.96 g/t silver from 1,172.0m depth. Five drill holes intersecting the Battle Butte Porphyry demonstrate a porphyry system believed to be starting at approximately 900 meters depth, with a vertical thickness of 800 meters, at least 600 meters by 400 meters in lateral dimension, and open to the east and northeast. Initial assay results show broad intervals of low-grade mineralization with a gold-to-copper ratio near one-to-one. Narrower but higher-grade sub-intervals are associated with the presence of the higher-grade copper sulphide mineral bornite (approximately 63% copper by weight), where the gold-to-copper ratio starts to increase. Current evidence suggests that the Battle Butte Porphyry system is open to the east and north, where the Typhoon anomaly remains untested at depth. Exploration in 2025 will continue to test the Battle Butte Porphyry, searching for higher-grade copper-gold zones and the presence of additional porphyry centers across the project. Figure 1. Plan view map of the Hog Heaven Project showing drill holes and their traces from the 2024 exploration program, newly leased land, and the location of cross-section A to A. Figure 2. Cross-section A to A at the Hog Heaven Project, looking northeast, of drilling at the Battle Butte Porphyry, showing Typhoon conductivity (left), drill holes, assay results, and simplified geology and alteration (right). Table 1. Highlighted new epithermal-type drill intercepts from the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project. Drill Hole Location From (m) To (m) Interval (m) CuEq % Ag g/t Au g/t Cu % Pb % Zn % HHD-017 Battle Butte Porphyry 755.49 765.00 9.51 2.17 127.43 0.12 0.45 0.84 1.11 The following long-term metal prices were used: $3.80/lb Cu, $1,707/oz Au, $22.42/oz Ag, $0.93/lb Pb, and $1.19/lb Zn. The specific formula used to report CuEq (%) is Cu% + ((0.655) * Au(g/t)) + ((0.009) * Ag(g/t)) + (0.245) * Pb (%)) + ((0.313) * Zn (%)). Flat recoveries of 100% were used for metal equivalency calculations. Intervals were derived on a CuEq basis with a cutoff of 0.1% CuEq. Maximum internal dilution of 5 meters was applied. Copper assays were capped at 10% for interval calculations. These are not true widths. Table 2. Highlighted new porphyry-type drill intercepts from the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project. Drill Hole Location From (m) To (m) Interval (m) CuEq (%) Cu (%) Au (g/t) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) HHD-018 Battle Butte Porphyry 947.00 1233.00 286.00 0.29 0.14 0.14 0.01 1.70 Including 947.00 1044.85 97.85 0.40 0.21 0.20 0.01 2.79 HHD-019 Battle Butte Porphyry 1172.00 1852.00 680.00 0.20 0.09 0.06 0.02 0.96 The following long-term metal prices were used: $3.80/lb Cu, $1,707/oz Au, $22.42/oz Ag, and $16.00/lb Mo. The specific formula used to report CuEq (%) is Cu % + ((0.655) * Au(g/t)) + ((0.009) * Ag(g/t)) + ((4.211) * Mo (%)). Flat recoveries of 100% were used for metal equivalency calculations. Intervals were derived on a CuEq basis with a cutoff of 0.10% CuEq. Maximum internal dilution of 5 meters was applied for drill holes HHD-018 and HHD-019. Copper assays were capped at 10% for interval calculations. These are not true widths. Quality Assurance and Quality control Ivanhoe Electric employs industry standard QA/QC and data verification protocols. The diamond drill holes were completed using PQ and HQ diameters. The drill core was cut lengthwise into halves using a diamond-bladed saw, with one-half used for the assay sample and the other half retained in core boxes and archived at site. Pulps and rejects are also stored on site for archival purposes. Mineralized zones were generally sampled at 2m intervals. Each core sample was placed into a bag with a unique numbered sample identification tag. Quality control samples were inserted between core samples using the same numbering sequence. Then samples were grouped into batches for shipping and laboratory submissions. Chain of custody records are maintained for sample shipments and the custody is transferred from Ivanhoe Electric expeditor to the laboratory upon delivery. Samples were shipped to ALS Laboratories in Twin Falls, Idaho, for sample preparation and analysis. Samples were analyzed using customary four acid digestion and ICP-MS finish. A standard gold fire assay package was used to analyze gold. Silver content was assessed using either HCl leach and ICP-AES finish or fire assay with gravimetric finish depending on silver concentrations. ALS Minerals Twin Falls is an independent laboratory certified under ISO 9001:2008 and accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2005 by the Standards Council of Canada. The Hog Heaven copper-silver-gold project is an advanced-stage exploration project, which historically produced high-grade silver, gold, and copper. Between 1913 and 1975, Anaconda Copper Mining and lessees produced 6.7Moz Ag, 3,000 oz Au, 23M lbs of lead, and 0.6M lbs copper from 0.23Mt of direct-ship ore, grading 29 opt silver. The road-accessible property is located in Flathead County, 50 miles southwest of the town of Kalispell, northwestern Montana, USA. Ivanhoe Electric and Brixton entered into an earn-in agreement in 2021. Under the earn-in agreement, Ivanhoe Electric may earn up to a 75% interest in the Hog Heaven Project by making cash payments totaling USD$4.5 million ($2.5 million paid to date) and incurring an aggregate of USD$40 million in exploration expenditures by 2032. For additional Hog Heaven Projects details, click here: https://brixtonmetals.com/hog-heaven/ Table 3. Hog Heaven Project Drill Collar information. DRILL HOLE STATUS DEPTH (m) AZIMUTH () DIP () EASTING NORTHING ELEVATION (m) HHD-001 COMPLETE 580.34 275 -50 678352 5309703 1200 HHD-002 COMPLETE 1001.50 270 70 678317 5309025 1151 HHD-003 COMPLETE 1248.76 65 -85 679760 5309704 1067 HHD-004 COMPLETE 1316.13 305 -55 680093 5308712 1027 HHD-005 COMPLETE 1248.76 185 -80 680725 5310624 1250 HHD-006 COMPLETE 773.58 340 -61 680748 5310254 1210 HHD-007 COMPLETE 824.79 210 -75 680727 5310624 1255 HHD-008 COMPLETE 735.18 0 -60 680752 5310259 1226 HHD-009 COMPLETE 785.47 100 -77 680533 5310551 1206 HHD-010 COMPLETE 1212.49 120 -70 680364 5310565 1214 HHD-011 COMPLETE 633.37 70 -65 680360 5310574 1213 HHD-012 COMPLETE 544.37 285 -75 680458 5310455 1181 HHD-013 COMPLETE 1157.63 240 -70 679768 5310382 1111 HHD-014 COMPLETE 864.72 220 -60 680273 5310468 1192 HHD-015 COMPLETE 594.06 250 -60 680273 5310468 1192 HHD-016 COMPLETE 1343.80 305 -80 680372 5310370 1169 HHD-017 COMPLETE 1394.60 310 -75 679466 5309311 1077 HHD-018 COMPLETE 1488.89 30 -85 679466 5309311 1077 HHD-019 COMPLETE 1852.54 215 -85 679564 5309388 1058 HHD-020 COMPLETE 1571.95 290 -74 679775 5309496 1078 HHD-021 COMPLETE 1441.09 220 -77 679704 5309273 1079 HHD-022 RESULTS PENDING 1753.70 32 -75 679489 5309066 1056 Qualified Person Disclosures of a scientific or technical nature included in this news release, including the sampling, analytical and technical data underlying the information, have been reviewed, verified, and approved by Shawn Vandekerkhove, P.Geo. of whom is a Qualified Person as defined by Regulation S-K, Subpart 1300 promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and by Canadian National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Vandekerkhove is an employee of Ivanhoe Electric Inc. Corporate Update Effective January 6, 2025, Christina Anstey has ceased to act as the Companys VP Exploration. We wish to thank Christina for her service to the Company and wish her all the best in her future endeavors. About Brixton Metals Corporation Brixton Metals is a Canadian exploration company focused on the advancement of its mining projects. Brixton wholly owns four exploration projects: Brixtons flagship Thorn copper-gold-silver-molybdenum Project, the Hog Heaven copper-silver-gold Project in NW Montana, USA, which is optioned to Ivanhoe Electric Inc., the Langis-HudBay silver-cobalt-nickel Project in Ontario and the Atlin Goldfields Project located in northwest BC which is optioned to Eldorado Gold Corporation. Brixton Metals Corporation shares trade on the TSX-V under the ticker symbol BBB, and on the OTCQB under the ticker symbol BBBXF. For more information about Brixton, please visit our website at www.brixtonmetals.com . On Behalf of the Board of Directors Mr. Gary R. Thompson, Chairman and CEO For Investor Relations inquiries please contact: Mr. Michael Rapsch, Senior Manager, Investor Relations. email: michael.rapsch@brixtonmetals.com or call: 604-630-9707 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. Information set forth in this news release may involve forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect, and intend, statements that an action or event may, might, could, should, or will be taken or occur, including statements that address potential quantity and/or grade of minerals, potential size and expansion of a mineralized zone, proposed timing of exploration and development plans, or other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mineral exploration; fluctuations in commodity prices; title matters; and the additional risks identified in the annual information form of the Company or other reports and filings with the TSXV and applicable Canadian securities regulators. Forward-looking statements are made based on managements beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://brixtonmetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Figure-1_7Jan2025-scaled.jpg SAN DIEGO, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In partnership with Modulus, its trusted supplier for Europe, Asia, and Africa, Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) the leader in operational intelligence for the casino and gaming industry will showcase its groundbreaking AGI55 platform at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) in Barcelona, taking place January 20-22, 2025. Designed to improve operational efficiency and enhance player engagement, QCIs AGI55 leverages advanced AI to deliver real-time data activation that help operators streamline operations and strengthen customer loyalty across all channels. Addressing key industry challenges such as declining loyalty and omni-channel engagement, AGI55 sets a new standard for gaming intelligence. QCI Player launched at G2E Las Vegas in October will be a focal point at ICE. This dynamic, customer-facing platform features a dedicated player app and portal that redefines engagement by enabling personalized interactions without relying solely on free play. Operators can now deliver targeted strategies to build stronger, lasting relationships with their players. Another standout innovation is Chatalytics, powered by OpenAI integration. This revolutionary tool empowers users with the query building capabilities of a senior data engineer. The resulting empowerment allows chat-based data exploration and analytical tools that intuitively guide the user to meaningful results. With unmatched scalability and adaptability, the QCI platform offers a comprehensive solution for operators of all sizes from single properties to enterprise-level portfolios. AGI55 empowers operators to optimize performance, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve sustainable long-term success. Andrew Cardno, CTO of QCI commented, I have worked with the Modulus team for nearly 15 years and have always been impressed with their innovative drive to take the industry to the next level. Modulus has many advanced bonusing features that offer engaging ways of interacting with customers. I am excited to be able bring our real-time generative technologies to the partnership to enable deeper use of these powerful capabilities. At QCI we are proud of our integration with the Modulus system and are committed to maintain allowing the 400 Modulus properties to choose the refined solution. Marc Attal, COO of Modulus added At Modulus, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive digital transformation, simplify operational management, and maximize customer engagement. Our partnership with QCI and the showcase of AGI55 at ICE Barcelona highlights our dedication to providing intuitive, high-performance tools that address the industry's current challenges. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of accessible, efficient, and digitally driven operational intelligence. For a hands-on demonstration of AGI55, including QCI Player and Chatalytics, visit the Modulus stand at ICE Barcelona, Stand #3Q30. ABOUT Quick Custom Intelligence Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI AGI Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and The Bahamas. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI's data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Denver, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com. ABOUT Andrew Cardno Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master's level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew's innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today's mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industriesbe it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSDAndrew's impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew's work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavours. Contact: Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence Phone: 858-349-8354 MADRID, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VDX.tv, a global video advertising technology company transforming the way brands connect with relevant audiences, today announced that Penelope Lima has been appointed as head of sales strategy and solutions globally to support the growing demand for premium, omnichannel video experiences internationally. Furthermore, Lima will oversee all agency and client partnerships as head of client partnerships Spain. Within the European and Spanish markets, VDX.tv has partnered with clients like LOreal Luxe Spain , Renault Group and more on award-winning campaigns. VDX.tvs campaign for Lancome was selected a winner of The Wires Global 2023 in the category of Best Use of CTV Technology. VDX.tvs campaign for Renault Group won in the same category during The Wires Global 2024. VDX.tv provides interactive and targeted video advertising solutions to agency and brand clients for omnichannel campaigns spanning premium online video (OLV), mobile, connected TV (CTV), over-the-top (OTT) and digital out-of-home (DOOH) inventory. With an 18+ year career in the digital marketing and advertising industry, Lima brings a wealth of experience to the position and has proven her ability to adapt and advance across sales, product and supply roles. Limas career in the digital advertising industry began in 2006, when she joined Advertising.com/AOL as media account manager and marketing manager. In 2010, she joined Exponential (now VDX.tv) as media director Spain and Italy. During that time, Lima played a key role in the launch of the companys Madrid office. Lima most recently held the role of Head of Supply Strategy Global at VDX.tv. Over the past two years, Limas focus at VDX.tv has been on developing innovative products and solutions, including DOOH and programmatic selling. She has also played an instrumental role in shaping the companys sales strategy for the client partnership team across all regions globally. In her new role, Lima will continue to foster strong relationships with global brands and help curate premium brand experiences that drive the most omnichannel impact for clients. Her role will include developing and positioning new products and solutions, crafting effective go-to-market, sales and marketing strategies for clients and agencies across the US, Canada, EMEA and APAC, and identifying client needs to inform the development of new solutions and products. She will also lead the sales team in Spain and ensure that VDX.tv delivers the best solutions for clients and agencies in the region. Lima said, "Transitioning from supply to client partnerships is an exciting step in my career. Im eager to continue contributing to the growth of VDX.tv and the global digital industry by developing effective sales strategies and creating innovative solutions for our clients and agencies worldwide." To learn more visit https://www.vdx.tv/ . About VDX.tv VDX.tv is a global video advertising technology company that helps brands magnify the magic of their TV ads by connecting the TV with household members' personal devices and allowing consumers to interact with their TV ads on those devices. The companys solutions are specifically designed to address each industry vertical's unique challenges, helping magnify a brand in the minds of their most valuable prospects, deepening the connection through attention, relevancy, interactivity and frequency. As a certied minority business enterprise, VDX.tv appreciates that diverse perspectives generate the most creative and effective solutions for connecting with diverse audiences. VDX.tv is a division of Exponential Interactive, Inc. Learn more at www.vdx.tv Media Contact Lacy Talton lacy@evergreenandoak.com 252.467.5220 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/97aac416-26a0-470d-a319-5430d0a9f460 Ottawa, 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 Graphite's 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 "Dean's mandate is clear: to build on the Company's 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 America's 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 Marc's 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 Marc's dedication and contributions during his tenure. Marc will remain on the Board of Directors and assist in the transition. Marc Roy commented "I'd 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 grade-ideal for applications in the military, defense, and green energy revolutions. Currently advancing through Canada's 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 Company's 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 Graphite's commitment extends beyond resource extraction-we 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 America's 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, Jan. 6, 2025 - 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: alex@defensemetals.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 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 forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, except as required by law. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/defense-metals--chairman-message-for-2025-302343534.html SOURCE Defense Metals Corp. VANCOUVER, Jan. 6, 2025 - Libero Copper & Gold Corp. (TSXV: LBC) (OTCQB: LBCMF) (DE: 29H) ("Libero Copper" or the "Company") announces an aggregate of 550,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") have been granted to certain directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. The Options are exercisable at a price of $0.34 per share, vesting immediately and expiring on January 6, 2035, subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. 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, 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, obtaining the receipt of final TSX Venture Exchange approval, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions and regulatory and administrative approvals, processes and filing requirements. 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. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Libero Copper assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. SOURCE Libero Copper & Gold Corporation VANCOUVER, Jan. 6, 2025 - MAS Gold Corp. ("MAS Gold" or the "Company") (TSXV: MAS) (OTCQB: MSGCF) (Frankfurt: 63G) is pleased to announce the results of its special meeting of shareholders held on January 6, 2025 (the "Meeting"). At the Meeting, MAS Gold shareholders voted in favour of the proposed transaction pursuant to which Eros Resources Corp. ("Eros") will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of MAS Gold that it does not already own by way of plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "MAS Arrangement") contemporaneously with the acquisition by Eros of all of the issued and outstanding shares of Rockridge Resources Ltd. ("Rockridge"), all pursuant to the previously announced three-way merger transaction (the "Transaction"). Pursuant to the Transaction, shareholders of Rockridge will receive 0.375 common shares of Eros (each full share, an "Eros Share") for each Rockridge common share held and shareholders of MAS Gold will receive 0.25 Eros Shares for each MAS Gold common share (a "MAS Gold Share") held. Upon closing of the Transaction, existing Eros shareholders will own approximately 42.37% of the combined company, existing MAS Gold shareholders will own approximately 37.33% of the combined company, and existing Rockridge shareholders will own approximately 20.30% (based on the current issued and outstanding shares of each of the companies). Approval of the MAS Arrangement required approval by: (i) 66% of the votes cast by shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting; and (ii) a simple majority of the votes cast by shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting, excluding the votes cast by such shareholders as are required to be excluded pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). At the Meeting, approximately 49.37% of the outstanding MAS Gold Shares were represented in person or by proxy, of which 99.68% were voted in favour of the MAS Arrangement. Approximately 99.67% of the shareholders other than shareholders whose votes were required to be excluded for purposes of "majority of the minority" approval under MI 61-101 voted in favour of the MAS Arrangement. MAS Gold has also been informed by Rockridge and Eros that all requisite shareholder approvals required by each of them for the completion of the Transaction were obtained today at meetings of the shareholders of Rockridge and Eros, respectively. MAS Gold and Rockridge will apply for final orders approving the Transaction from the Supreme Court of British Columbia on January 9, 2025. Closing of the transaction remains subject to certain customary closing conditions including court approval. Assuming the satisfaction of these closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close on or about mid-January 2025. About MAS Gold Corp. MAS Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on advancing its gold exploration projects in the prospective La Ronge Gold Belt of Saskatchewan. MAS Gold is exploring on four properties in the belt, including the Preview South West, Greywacke Lake, Contact Lake and North Lake Properties totaling 29,949.10 hectares (74,005.84 acres). These properties extend along the geologically prospective La Ronge, Kisseynew and Glennie Domains that make up the La Ronge Gold Belt in north-central Saskatchewan. NEITHER THE TSXV NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE. None of the securities to be issued pursuant to the Transaction have been, nor will be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction. Forward-Looking Information and Statements Certain of the information or statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which are collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements". When used in this news release, words such as "will", "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would" or "should" occur or be achieved or the negative connotation of such terms. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements relating to: the Transaction; court approval; the ability of the parties to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Transaction; and the anticipated timing of the completion of the Transaction, which involve numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the risk factors identified in the joint information circular respecting the Transaction and the documents incorporated by reference therein, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Such factors include, among others, obtaining required regulatory approvals, exercise of any termination rights under the Agreement, meeting other conditions in the business combination agreement, material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of the Company, and whether any superior proposal will be made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements in this news release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. 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. SOURCE MAS Gold Corp. VANCOUVER, Jan. 7, 2025 - P2 Gold Inc. ("P2" or the "Company") (TSX-V: PGLD) (OTCQB: PGLDF) reports that under the terms of the convertible debentures (the "Convertible Debentures") issued on March 4, 2024 and March 14, 2024 (see news releases dated March 5, 2024 and March 14, 2024), (a) it has elected to satisfy its obligation to pay accrued interest in shares of the Company and (b) the conversion price will increase to $0.10 per share from $0.07 per share on February 1, 2025. Convertible Debenture Interest Payment At December 31, 2024, Convertible Debentures having an aggregate value of $1,374,500 were outstanding (Convertible Debentures having an aggregate value of $290,500 were converted into shares of the Company prior to December 31, 2024). The Company has elected to pay an aggregate of $51,967.42 in interest accrued on the $1,374,500 of Convertible Debentures by issuing to such debenture holders for the interest payment (the "Interest Payment") due December 31, 2024 an aggregate of 822,467 common shares of the Company. The Company will pay to each such debenture holder approximately 598.38 common shares per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Debentures held as at the applicable interest payment record date. Under the terms of the Convertible Debentures, no fractional common shares will be delivered upon payment of the interest obligation. The issuance of common shares in payment of interest remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). The common shares to be issued in respect of the Interest Payment will be subject to a hold period of four months from the date of issuance. A director and officer of the Company is a holder of Convertible Debentures. As a result, the Interest Payment is considered to be a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Interest Payment in respect of this individual is exempt from the minority approval and formal valuation requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to subsections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the debt, nor the fair market value of the shares to be issued in settlement of the debt, exceeds 25% of P2's market capitalization. Increase in Conversion Price of Convertible Debentures Under the terms of the Convertible Debentures, a holder may elect to convert the outstanding net principal amount, or any portion thereof, into shares of the Company at a conversion price of $0.07 per share up to January 31, 2025 and $0.10 per Share from February 1, 2025 up to January 31, 2026. About P2 Gold Inc. P2 Gold is a mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its gold-copper Gabbs Project on the Walker Lane Trend in Nevada. A positive preliminary economic assessment has outlined a long-life, mid-size mine at Gabbs with annual average production of 104,000 ounces gold and 13,500 tonnes copper over a 14.2 year mine life. 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. Forward Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws that is intended to be covered by the safe harbours created by those laws. "Forward-looking information" includes statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential" or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking information includes, without limitation, information with respect to the Company's expectations, strategies and plans for its exploration and development projects. Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and is based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management at the date the statements are made. Furthermore, such forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. See "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, dated March 21, 2024 filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com for a discussion of these risks. The Company cautions that 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. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking information contained in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. SOURCE P2 Gold Inc. VANCOUVER, Jan. 7, 2025 - Black Mammoth Metals Corp. (TSXV: BMM) (OTC: LQRCF) ("Black Mammoth" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Antelope Creek Gold Corporation ("Antelope Creek"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Black Mammoth, has entered into a mineral lease purchase agreement (the "Agreement") dated January 3, 2025, with TUVERA Exploration Inc. (formerly ARNEVUT Resources Inc.) (the "Vendor") to acquire a 100% interest in 8 leased patented claims (the "Leases"). The Company has also recently staked 89 federal unpatented lode claims. Claims: The patented and unpatented claims total approximately 710 contiguous hectares (1756 acres) and is called the Coleman Canyon Gold property, formerly the Island Mountain property ("Coleman Canyon" or the "Property") located in Elko County, NE Nevada, at the NE extent of the Jerritt Canyon Trend. Mineralization: Gold resource modelling was performed after the 2013 drilling season to incorporate all drilling up to that point (the "Resource Model"). All known gold and silver mineralization are in the oxide zone. An interim NI 43-101 technical report was completed in 2015 (the "Technical Report"). Gold mineralization in the indicated and inferred categories estimated in the Technical Report (the "Mineralization") is significant. The Resource Model in addition to the Mineralization, the geochemical data and the geophysical data suggest that the Mineralization has the potential to expand significantly. Silver mineralization, once fully modelled, will add to that overall potential. The silver-gold ratio is approximately 3 to 1. Extensive jasperoid zones along the carbonate rock contact and distal to the modeled intrusion may indicate a potential Carlin-type gold deposit at depth (see Figure 1), while strongly brecciated quartz veins in a shear zone provide the potential for a high-grade orogenic gold system within the district (see Figure 2). Black Mammoth is not treating the Mineralization as current mineral resources. A qualified person will have to perform sufficient work to verify and update the Resource Model so that all mineralization factors can be evaluated. The Technical Report will need to be revised to bring it into full compliance before being released along with its resource estimation. A qualified person has not yet determined the extent of what work needs to be done to upgrade or verify the Mineralization at Coleman Canyon as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The existence of the Technical Report, along with the Resource Model is relevant for historical completeness, but should not be relied on. Figure 1 - Structurally-controlled jasperoids along the carbonate rock contact and distal to the modeled intrusion (looking east). Figure 2 - Brecciated and iron-oxide-cemented quartz veining in shear zone. Permitting status: There is an existing Plan of Operations (the "Permit") for drilling a total of 19 holes at Coleman Canyon. The drill holes are intended to provide infill of previous drilling and known mineralization and to test the outer limits of mineralization on the northern side of the Property. The Permit was approved in 2020 by the Nevada Bureau of Mining Reclamation and the U.S. Forest Service and may now need to be updated. Geology: The majority of the known gold and silver mineralization is hosted by sedimentary and meta-sedimentary rocks surrounding a central intrusive stock. Mineralization in the sedimentary units is restricted to calcareous beds of the Hammond Canyon Formation and parts of the overlying Poorman Creek Formation, in keeping with a "proximal Carlin" deposit model. These units have been pushed up during emplacement of the intrusive so that the units dip away from the intrusive on all sides, flattening with distance from the intrusive. Mineralization appears to be controlled by bedding and partly by structural features, including faults and fracturing interpreted to have provided pathways for mineralizing fluids. There is also vein mineralization in the intrusive stock. Sulphide mineralization is anticipated to exist because of similar geology to other intrusions and Carlin-style deposits in the Jerritt Canyon Trend. Historic production: There is a large mined-out placer deposit immediately downstream from the intrusion. This placer, known as the "Gold Creek Placer," was one of the largest wet placers in Nevada, along Coleman Creek and Gold Creek, producing approximately 40,000 oz gold from the 1890s through 1960s. A number of historic mines were developed along the border zone between the intrusive and sedimentary units both in Coleman Canyon and Hammond Canyon, the drainages bordering the intrusive on the southwest and northeast respectively, with production amounts from these mines unknown. Past drilling: Drilling at the Coleman Canyon property has been performed intermittently since the early 1980s. Drilling campaigns include operators: BHP, Aur Resources, Cordex Exploration, Western States Minerals, Kennecott Exploration, Gateway Gold and TUVERA Exploration with over 300 reverse circulation and core holes completed for a total of over 55,000m. Most core boxes and chip trays from the recent drilling programs have been preserved and are in storage along with the assay rejects and pulps. Most past drilling was performed in the sedimentary units on the west side of the property, in the west end of the intrusive, and in the sedimentary units around the intrusive on the south and southeast sides. Because of the clustered nature of drilling in the 2000s, the known Mineralization has a "string-of-pearls" pattern in parts of the Resource Model. Infill drilling in 2012-2013 started to tie these clusters together in the western half of the Property and expanded Mineralization to the northwest. Further infill drilling will be needed to test between existing clusters and to test the continuity and lateral extent of Mineralization around the south and east sides of the intrusive. Nearly all known Mineralization is open laterally within the sedimentary units and is potentially open vertically both in the deeper oxide zone and into the sulfide zone. Possible extension of the intrusive and mineralized sedimentary units to the south, southeast, and east within the Coleman Canyon claims area is suggested by past geophysical work. Acquisition terms: Under the terms of the Agreement, Antelope Creek has acquired a 100% interest in the Leases from the Vendor in addition to acquiring the Vendor's extensive Property data, including drill core and RC chips in storage, in exchange for a 1% NSR royalty which covers the unpatented claims that the Company has staked. The Leases have annual payments that total approximately $35,500 USD and have a 3% NSR royalty, in favor of their underlying owners. The Leases include mineral rights, surface rights and any water rights that the underlying owners may have. The Leases, signed in 2010 for an initial term of 20 years, can be extended for an additional 20 years under certain conditions. The Company understands that the Lease payments are in arrears but that the Leases are still in force. There are no payments, work commitment amounts, finder's fees or share compensation in connection with Coleman Canyon acquisition. About Black Mammoth Metals Corporation: In 2024, Black Mammoth Metals acquired a 100% interest in: Leadore Silver-Lead property, Lemhi County, ID, East Reveille Gold property, Nye County, NV, America Mine Gold property, San Bernardino, CA, Quito Gold property, Lander County, NV South Ravenswood District, Lander County NV, Callaghan Gold District, Lander County NV. At the Company's 100% owned, 1,213 hectare (2,997 acre) Happy Cat Gold property, Lander County, NV, an approximate 4 square kilometre area is identified as being hydrothermally altered. Structural modelling suggests the density of the alteration and its' density contrast relative to the host rock is typical to that of alteration zones present at other Carlin-type deposits in northern Nevada. The alteration encompasses an area where northerly trending high-angle faults intersect indicated NW-trending re-activated faults that are known to be of age and orientation as ore-controlling faults occurring at other Carlin-type deposits. The Company intends to drill approximately 1500m in January 2025 to further understand the structure and stratigraphy. The required permit and bond are in place. Black Mammoth also has a 100% interest in the Blanco Creek Gold property in the Elk Creek Mining District, central Idaho, which hosts three historic underground mines along 3,550 meters (11,644 feet) of strike on the north-east trending regional Blanco Shear Zone. Exploration by two previous operators identified a geological target for the Blanco Creek property in the order of 1.70 to 2.48 million tons, grading 0.20 to 0.33 oz/ton Au (1.54 to 2.24 million tonnes, grading 6.85 to 11.31 g/tonne Au); see the Company's press release dated February 14, 2017. Black Mammoth cautions investors to note the potential quantity and grade of the geological target are conceptual in nature. A qualified person has not completed sufficient work to classify the geological target as mineral resources as defined by NI 43-101, and it is uncertain if future exploration will result in the target being delineated as mineral resources. Mark J. Abrams, CPG #11451, a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and director of Black Mammoth, has reviewed and approved the technical content in this release. Historical information contained in this news release cannot be relied upon as Mr. Abrams, the Company's Qualified Person, has not prepared or verified the historical information. On behalf of the board, "Dustin Henderson" Dustin Henderson, BBA President & CEO Website: www.blackmammothmetals.com This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including statements regarding the Company's completion of the Transaction and related transactions are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are 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. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include that the requisite corporate and TSXV for the Transaction may not be obtained; that the Company or IDA Mining, as applicable, may be unable to satisfy any or all closing conditions necessary for the completion of the Transaction; and other risks that are customary to transactions of this nature. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. All of the Company's public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including the latest technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Black Mammoth Metals Corp Contact Black Mammoth Metals Corporation, Phone: 604 347 9101, Email: blackmammothmetals@gmail.com Vancouver, January 7, 2025 - Auric Minerals Corp. (CSE: AUMC) ("Auric" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has entered into an option agreement to acquire up to a 100-per-cent interest, free and clear of all encumbrances, except for an underlying net smelter return royalty, in the BUB Uranium Property, (the "Property") located 55 kilometers southwest of Pottsville, NL, in Labrador's prospective Central Mineral Belt ("CMB"). Chris Huggins, CEO states, "by optioning the BUB Uranium property following the Company's recently acquired Route 500 Uranium project, Auric is positioning itself to become a significant player in the Central Mineral Belt of Labrador. With the previously announced exploration program scheduled to commence later in January, and these two prospective Uranium properties, we aim to advance the Company quickly in 2025." About the Property - The Bub Project is located 55 kilometres southwest of Potsville, NL and 200 km from the Route 500 Project. - The Bub Project is in the southern portion of the CMB and overlies regional structural trends associated with known deposits such as the Michelin Project, Mustang and Jacques Lake projects. - Targets on the Bub Project include radiometric anomalies correlated with anomalous Uranium lake sediment samples. - A property wide northeast trending corridor is prospective for structurally related uranium mineralization. This corridor is defined by anomalous lake sediment samples along a northeast trending fault that skirts the peripheries of radiometric anomalies. Option Agreement Upon execution of the option agreement, Auric can earn 100% interest in the BUB property by making: 1) an aggregate of $200,000 in cash payments to the Optionor (the "Option Payments") as follows: a) $75,000 within ten (10) days from the Effective Date; b) $50,000 on or before the first anniversary of the Effective Date; c) $75,000 on or before the second anniversary of the Effective Date; 2) incurring an aggregate of $1,000,000 in Expenditures on the Property as follows: a) $100,000 on or before the first anniversary of the Effective Date; b) $100,000 on or before the second anniversary of the Effective Date; c) an additional $300,000 on or before the third anniversary of the Effective Date; d) an additional $500,000 on or before the fourth anniversary of the Effective Date; and 3) issuing to the Optionor an aggregate of 400,000 common shares in the capital of the Optionee (the "Option Shares") as follows: a) 200,000 shares within ten (10) days from the Effective Date; b) 100,000 shares on or before the second anniversary of the Effective Date; c) 100,000 shares on or before the third anniversary of the Effective Date. The Optionor retains a 2.5% NSR over the BUB Claims of which 1% can be purchased by Auric within 30 days of Commercial Production, for $1,500,000. The Consideration Shares are subject to a four-month hold period. The option agreement is subject to the approval of the CSE. The option agreement was signed on January 6, 2025; it is an arm's-length transaction, and no finders' fees are payable in connection with the option agreement. Qualified Person Statement The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jeremy Hanson a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI43-101"). About the Company Auric is a mineral exploration company based in Oakville, Ontario and holds options over the Route 500 Uranium Property in Labrador, and the Goodeye Property in British Columbia, Canada. About the Property Note: Readers are cautioned that the geology of nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of the geology of the Company's properties. AURIC MINERALS CORP. Chris Huggins, Director, and interim CEO Forward-Looking Statements Except for the statements of historical fact, this news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. "Forward-looking information" in this news release includes information about the Company's intentions, plans and future actions described herein and the terms thereon. The forward-looking information in this news release reflects the current expectations, assumptions and/or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. The Company has also assumed that no significant events occur outside of the Company's normal course of business. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236280 VANCOUVER, January 7, 2025 - Heritage Mining Ltd. (CSE: HML FRA:Y66) ("Heritage" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Reid to the Company's board of directors (the "Board"). Mr. Reid will be succeeding James Fairbairn, who has retired from the Board with immediate effect. Mr. Reid recently retired after a 30 year career with Sun Life Financial ("Sun Life") include terms as CFO Canada and Head of Corporate Development. Since joining Sun Life Financial in 1994, Tom has held increasingly senior positions throughout Sun Life in the areas of Finance, Corporate Development, Public Relations and Investor Relations. From 2009 to 2020, Mr. Reid led the Group Retirement Services business at Sun Life, growing the assets under management from $30 billion to $130 billion in that time. For the last 4 years, Tom was responsible for the Strategy and Growth team for Sun Life in Canada, where his team led strategic planning for the Canadian businesses and explored how Sun Life can invest in new businesses to accelerate the Company's growth in Canada. Mr. Reid also holds the CPA,CA designations. "I am excited to join Peter Schloo and the experienced team at Heritage Mining as we continue to develop the Company's portfolio of projects in Ontario. Peter has consistently demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and approach to business and I have been a consistent supporter of Heritage as a result. I look forward to generating value for our stakeholders, 2025 will be an exciting chapter for us." Commented Thomas Reid, Director of Heritage. "I am delighted to have Tom on the Heritage Mining Board of Directors. I've work under Tom in my past role at Sun Life driving improved operational efficiency through automations and coding in their Finance Department. Sun Life was a fantastic place to learn and add value. I'd also like to thank Jim for his contributions as a Director and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Jim was one of the first Directors in Heritage and has brought material value to our stakeholders." Commented Peter Schloo, President, CEO and Director of Heritage. ABOUT HERITAGE MINING LTD. The Company is a Canadian mineral exploration company advancing its two high grade gold-silver-copper projects in Northwestern Ontario. The Drayton-Black Lake and the Contact Bay projects are located near Sioux Lookout in the underexplored Eagle-Wabigoon-Manitou Greenstone Belt. Both projects benefit from a wealth of historic data, excellent site access and logistical support from the local community. The Company is well capitalized, with a tight capital structure. For further information, please contact: Heritage Mining Ltd. Peter Schloo, CPA, CA, CFA President, CEO and Director Phone: (905) 505-0918 Email: peter@heritagemining.ca FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of the Company. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe", "outlook" and similar expressions are not statements of historical fact and may be forward looking information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks include, among others, the inherent risk of the mining industry; adverse economic and market developments; the risk that the Company will not be successful in completing additional acquisitions; risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; the possibility that the Company's estimated burn rate may be higher than anticipated; risks of unexpected cost increases; risks of labour shortages; risks relating to exploration and development activities; risks relating to future prices of mineral resources; risks related to work site accidents, risks related to geological uncertainties and variations; risks related to government and community support of the Company's projects; risks related to global pandemics and other risks related to the mining industry. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward?looking information should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any forward?looking information except as required by law. This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States, or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors. NOT INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES MONTREAL, Jan. 07, 2025 - Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) ("Falco" or the "Company") welcomes the report of the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE), in which the commission of inquiry brings to the attention of the relevant decision-making bodies various elements that require commitments, actions or modifications, with a view to issuing government authorizations. This commission examined the Falco Horne 5 mining project (the "Project") from a sustainable development perspective, and, at this stage of the project's development, it is customary for the commission to request additional studies and analyses in order to clarify certain aspects of the Project. It is important to note that to date, more than 90% of the commission's opinions related to the Project have already been considered, planned or initiated. Falco has summarized its main findings in a summary of highlights. In addition, more than 50% of the commission's opinions suggested updating various existing studies. Falco wishes to reiterate that these updates and analyses are already included in its project planning and will be submitted to government authorities at the appropriate time, as part of the Quebec regulatory process for the Falco Horne 5 project. In terms of content, the report: Sheds light on Rouyn-Noranda's current specific socio-community and health context. States that the methodology and the various approaches used to produce the predictive model are appropriate and comply with best practices in the field, and that the estimates of seismic potential are therefore fully adequate. Emphasizes that the Project would contribute to the Plan quebecois pour la valorisation des mineraux critiques et strategiques 2020-2025 and, in a real but moderate way, to Quebec's energy transition and decarbonization. Acknowledges that the Project could significantly stimulate and strengthen the regional and provincial mining industry, and notes that it could also stimulate innovation and consolidate the activities of both regional and Quebec companies. Application of the precautionary principle: at the heart of the commission's opinions Falco welcomes the continued application of the precautionary principle in the report's conclusions and sees this as an opportunity to further improve the Project, by continuing the work already begun, in close collaboration with stakeholders, local communities and the relevant authorities. Falco would also like to point out that many of the recommendations made by the commission in its report are also addressed to the Quebec government, the City of Rouyn-Noranda and other partners, and that more than a third of the recommendations offer avenues of reflection for the mining industry as a whole, which could contribute to its evolution in a more sustainable development perspective. With the start-up anticipated for 2030, Falco has the time it needs to meet the expectations expressed. Health and safety: a priority With the health and safety of Rouyn-Noranda's citizens at the heart of Falco's priorities, a committee of experts will be set up in January 2025 to determine the acceptable parameters and operating conditions to ensure the cohabitation of the Project and the Radio-Oncology Center of the Centre integre de sante et de services sociaux de l'Abitibi-Temiscamingue (CISSSAT). Several discussion groups have been or are in the process of being set up. These consultation mechanisms will give the community the opportunity to actively participate in the search for appropriate solutions. The commission also recommended that the Minister include in his decree the Integrity Program - residences and infrastructures, a Falco initiative that was presented to the public in the fall of 2024. Helene Cartier, Vice-President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations, commented: "Given the project's stage of development, we expected the findings of the commission and fully accept the challenge of integrating its main conclusions, which reflect the input of the groups participating in the hearings. These high expectations also reflect our own commitment to environmental and social excellence. Our vision has always been to seamlessly integrate our project into the community. We will work with the Ministere de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) to complete the environmental analysis in order to obtain the decree." Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer added: "In light of the BAPE report, we will continue our efforts to improve the Horne 5 project so that it meets the public's expectations. We are convinced of the lasting and significant benefits for the entire region. We will take the time to analyze the report in detail with our experts, but we are pleased to have passed one of the last stages of the environmental assessment process. BAPE's contribution is just one of the elements intended to inform the recommendation that the Minister of the MELCCFP will make to the Council of Ministers." Falco is confident that, with appropriate adjustments and ongoing collaboration with stakeholders over the next few years, solutions can be found that will ultimately enable the Project to be completed while meeting environmental and social expectations. About Falco Resources Falco is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the province of Quebec, with an extensive portfolio of properties in the Abitibi-Temiscamingue greenstone belt. Falco holds rights to approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the camp as a whole and includes 13 former gold and base metal mining sites. Falco's main asset is the Horne 5 project located beneath the former Horne mine, which was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder, with a 16% interest in the Company. For more information, please contact: Helene Cartier Vice-President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations 514-216-8611 hcartier@falcores.com Luc Lessard President and Chief Executive Officer, Falco Resources 514 261-3336 info@falcores.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. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the Corporation obtaining all required governmental and regulatory approvals, are forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, results, performance or achievements of Falco to differ materially from any future plans, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The fourth Christian Art Biennale, titled The Splendor of Beauty in His Land, opened on December 22 at Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School in Hong Kong and will conclude tomorrow, January 1. The 10-day exhibition has drawn enthusiastic responses, surpassing previous years in attendance and impact. The exhibition features over 200 works of art, primarily large-scale paintings, with diverse styles, materials, and mediums on display. Curator and founder Samuel Chow told The Gospel Herald that the schools display panels were insufficient to accommodate the extensive collection. To address this, additional panels were borrowed from more than 10 neighboring schools. In addition to paintings, the exhibition showcases a wide array of installation art, utilizing materials such as bronze, wood, and ceramics, reflecting the creativity and thoughtfulness of the participating artists. When a Gospel Herald reporter visited the exhibition on the afternoon of December 29, artists were present to provide guided tours, offering visitors insights into the meaning behind their works. At least five to six artists were seen engaging with attendees, creating a dynamic and interactive atmosphere. Many visitors lingered to admire the artworks, and some shared that they had come specifically to view the exhibition. Encouraging Christian Artists Curator Chow expressed his gratitude for the platform the exhibition provides to Christian artists. The works reflect the dedication and talent of the artists. Having this venue is a great encouragement, giving their creations value and meaning and inspiring them to continue their work. Record Attendance and Enthusiastic Response In addition to the art displays, the event featured a variety of activities, including concerts, lectures, and workshops on topics such as Art and Spiritual Growth, Art and Faith, and Art, Aesthetics, Visual Culture, and Theology. A Christmas evangelistic event was also held, featuring prominent speakers such as Pastor Yo Chi Yang (known as the Magic Pastor), Dr. John Situ, Pastor Stephen Lam, and Pastor Henry Lee. The exhibition attracted not only Christians but also local residents. Chow revealed that this fourth edition of the biennale received the most enthusiastic response to date, with nearly 2,000 visitors as of December 31. He attributed the overwhelming success to several factors, including the international scope of the event, which featured 97 artists from eight countries. Were not a large organization, but weve been guided by God to reach this level, he said. He also credited angels along the way, including the 10 Tseung Kwan O schools that lent display panels and the principal of Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School, who provided significant support to ensure the events success. Chow also highlighted the importance of this years enhanced promotional efforts. Advertisements on Facebook, as well as outreach to universities, schools, and Christian and Catholic organizations, helped draw attention to the event. Additionally, co-organizer Media Evangelism Limited produced professional promotional videos, including a series of artist interviews, further boosting the events visibility. A Collaborative Effort Organized by Hong Kong Art Gear and Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School, the exhibition was co-hosted by over 10 organizations, including Gospel Operation International for Chinese Christians, the Ark Organization, Chung Chi Divinity School at CUHK, and Artist Cradle. With works from 96 participating artists from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, the event has become a major milestone in the Chinese Christian art community. Exhibition Details 4th The Splendor of Beauty in His Land Christian Art Biennale Exhibition Dates: December 22, 2024 - January 1, 2025 Hours: Monday~Saturday: 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Sunday: 2:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. January 1: 11:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Venue: Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School Address: 15 Tong Chun Street, Tseung Kwan O Organizer: Hong Kong Art Gear Website: hkartgear.org/splendor-beauty In traditional Chinese culture, deeply ingrained notions of gender roles, often expressed as "male strong, female weak," significantly influence the position of women in society and the church. This issue is particularly pertinent for female pastors navigating their roles in ministry. Rev. Dora Wang, Ph.D., from China Evangelical Seminary North America (CESNA), recently addressed this topic in a seminar, sharing her insights on the challenges women face in ministry and proposing strategies to support female seminary students in maximizing their God-given gifts. Gender Roles in Chinese Culture Rev. Wang opened her lecture by highlighting the pervasive influence of traditional gender roles in shaping relationships within Chinese churches. The male-dominated ethos of "male as authority, female as support" permeates both family life and church structures. In this context, women often find their ministry opportunities restricted to roles traditionally considered "suitable for women," such as children's ministry, womens fellowship, or elder care. These positions, while vital, often limit women from taking on leadership roles like preaching, pastoral leadership, or leadership. Rev. Wang shared a common scenario where women pastors, despite their theological training and ministry experience, are often assigned roles that align with traditional expectations rather than their individual calling or abilities. This marginalization leaves many women feeling unfulfilled and sidelined in their church communities. Gender Disparities Among Pastors Rev. Wang observed that the challenges female pastors face are not solely cultural but also relational, stemming from interactions with male pastors. Early in their ministry, women pastors often receive support and mentorship from their male counterparts, especially as they learn the ropes of pastoral work. However, as women pastors gain experience and excel in their roles, male pastors may perceive them as a threat to their leadership. This shift can lead to resistance or even subtle competition, further complicating the dynamics within church leadership teams. Rev. Wang emphasized that this phenomenon is widespread, with many female pastors reporting struggles to collaborate effectively with male colleagues as they grow in their ministries. The Realities for Female Seminary Students Rev. Wang provided sobering statistics from CESNA, where only 3 out of 22 female graduates over the past decade continue to serve in church ministries. The others have either pursued further education, joined parachurch organizations, engaged in freelance ministry, or left ministry altogether. This trend underscores a systemic lack of support for women in pastoral roles. Many female seminary graduates find limited opportunities to use their training and gifts in the church, often constrained by traditional expectations and organizational barriers. Wage Inequality & Breaking Cultural Barriers Rev. Wang also pointed to the significant pay disparities between male and female pastors. In one example from 2021, a female pastor earned $3,800 per month, while her male counterpart earned $5,500 for the same role. In some cases, female pastors' salaries are even halved, particularly in churches where the male pastor's wife serves as a "co-pastor" with minimal recognition or compensation. This economic disparity not only affects women pastors' livelihoods but also reinforces their subordinate status within church leadership. Rev. Wang stressed that addressing these inequalities requires challenging traditional cultural norms and reevaluating biblical teachings on gender roles. She argued that the Bible emphasizes the calling and gifting of all believers, irrespective of gender. Churches must therefore prioritize character and ability over gender when ordaining pastors or assigning leadership roles. To foster an inclusive environment, Rev. Wang proposed creating platforms to support female pastors in exercising their gifts. This includes empowering women to take on leadership roles and providing opportunities for preaching and teaching. Rev. Wang highlighted the importance of theological education tailored to equip women for ministry. Seminaries should offer specialized training to prepare female pastors for the unique challenges they may face. Additionally, churches must provide spiritual mentorship and emotional support to help women pastors remain resilient and confident in their calling. Encouraging Women to Use Their Gifts Rev. Wang concluded her lecture with a poignant reference to Pastor Nancy Lees adaptation of the Parable of the Talents. In this version, a female servant, entrusted with five talents, buries them out of fear of societal prejudice and male-dominated pressures. The servants failure to use her talents leads to rebuke from her master. This story serves as a call to action for both churches and women pastors. Rev. Wang encouraged female pastors to courageously embrace their gifts and resist cultural pressures that diminish their potential. She also urged churches to cultivate environments where women can thrive in their ministry, ensuring that no God-given talent is wasted. By addressing systemic inequalities and affirming womens contributions to ministry, Rev. Wang believes the church can better reflect the inclusive and empowering message of the Gospel. As the year draws to a close, Rev. Samuel Liu (), President of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary North America (, CESNA), reflected on the seminarys remarkable growth and ministry development over the past year. Dedicated to providing theological education to Chinese Christians, CESNA continues to uphold its mission to remain faithful to the gospel and nurture believers. This years achievements span academic, ministerial, and outreach endeavors, fostering spiritual growth and advancing missionary work among Chinese communities. Development and Ministry Expansion In his year-end address, Rev. Liu highlighted key achievements, particularly in teaching, fundraising, and outreach. Graduation and Alumni Impact: In June, CESNA celebrated its 26th commencement, equipping a new generation of dedicated ministry leaders. Fundraising Initiatives: In August, the seminary hosted simultaneous fundraising events across its main and satellite campuses, generating crucial resources for its theological education mission. A subsequent donor appreciation event in September further strengthened the seminary's financial base. Public Theology Center Events: In January, CESNAs Public Theology Center organized a forum titled "Bridging Divides: Christian Engagement in Politics", preparing seminarians and believers for meaningful participation in this election year. Church Ministry Programs: Other initiatives included pastoral retreats under the Flourishing Church Ministry program and intergenerational church leadership workshops. These events have greatly enhanced church leaders vision and capacity for shepherding their congregations. Testimonies from Alumni The report included inspiring testimonies from alumni whose ministries have been significantly impacted by CESNA's programs. Reflecting on his participation in the Flourishing Church Ministrys pastoral retreat, Rev. David Sun (North Orange Cross Chinese Church) shared, We were moved by love and zeal during the retreat. After returning to our church, we experienced rapid growth, and we are overflowing with gratitude. Rev. Anna Li (Lowell Chinese Bible Church) highlighted the invaluable resources provided by the Flourishing Church Ministry, which clarified her churchs practical needs and strengthened team unity and cohesion. Sister May Ma (Spiritual Formation Department Student) described her transformative journey at CESNA: Through studying spiritual formation, Ive discovered the paramount importance of my relationship with God. As my relationship with Him deepens, so does the strength of my ministry. Sister Sophia Chen (Doctor of Ministry Student, Middle East and North Africa Missions 2024) emphasized the seminarys profound impact on missions: CESNAs mission trips have enabled us to apply theological knowledge to fieldwork, pushing the gospel further into unreached regions. History and Mission of CESNA CESNA traces its roots back to 1970 when 14 like-minded church groups and missions agencies established the Chinese Evangelical Seminary in Taipei. The seminarys clear mission has been to uphold gospel truth, equip Mandarin-speaking believers, and prepare them as faithful workers for the global Chinese church. From its inception, the seminary has aimed to elevate Chinese theological education, becoming a vital pillar of faith education worldwide. As the North American branch of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary, CESNA continues this legacy by offering theological education and ministry training to nurture theological leaders for the global Chinese church. Through its programs and initiatives, CESNA remains committed to empowering new generations of believers to make significant contributions to the worldwide body of Christ. "May the love of the Lord flow like a spring, May the flame in our hearts never fade, May our footsteps reach every distant land, Proclaiming Your glory to the ends of the earth." This simple yet profound hymn vividly illustrates the close connection between discipleship and evangelism. The "flowing spring" symbolizes the vitality of the gospelnot a static doctrine but a living and active force. Like an ever-flowing spring, the gospel refreshes dry, parched lands and needs our unwavering passion and steadfast faith to transform lives and bring renewal. The "flame in our hearts" calls Christians to keep their faith and love for the Lord ablaze, representing the work and power of the Holy Spirit, driving us to proclaim God's glory boldly. The hymns reference to "stepping across distant lands" captures the mission of spreading the gospel, not merely a geographical movement but a spiritual summons echoing Jesus' command: to take the gospel to every corner of the world. This hymn encapsulates the heart of discipleship: equipping ourselves, courageously carrying the gospels mandate, and spreading it globally. Reflections on University Discipleship and Evangelism Experiences Looking back on my university years, serving in a Christian fellowship was like a mirror reflecting how Christ expanded my understanding and responsibility toward the gospel mission. Weekend Bible studies with mentors and campus evangelism opened my eyes to the true meaning of the Great Commission and strengthened my faith. Participating in events like the 5th Malaysian Intervarsity Christian Week, where over 40 fellowships and 500 students united to share the gospel, reinforced the truth that the gospels fire must go beyond campus, igniting communities far and wide. The Great Commission is not just a slogan; it is a profound call to souls, a duty for every believer. I realized my irreplaceable role in this vast gospel mission. As Matthew 28:19-20 commands: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." Jesus Christs Core Vision for Discipleship and Global Mission Jesus discipleship was not merely about shaping knowledge and character but also igniting a vision for worldwide evangelism. His calling to "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19) transcended wisdom and virtue; it mandated bringing the gospel to the ends of the earth. Jesus' teachings and actions consistently reminded His disciples they were not only followers but bearers of a divine mission. He crossed cultural and ethnic barriersministering to a Samaritan woman and a Gentile centurionto demonstrate that the gospel is for all, no matter the societal boundaries. By His example, Jesus led His disciples from a narrow worldview to a universal mission. Acts 1:8 declares: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This verse underscores that the gospel transcends nations and cultures, illuminating the world. Biblical Heroes of Gospel Proclamation: Pauls Example The apostle Paul stands as one of the most remarkable evangelists and disciple-makers. His life intertwined with hardship, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to the Great Commission. Despite imprisonment and arduous travels, Paul remained resolutepreaching the gospel and training disciples. His ministry exemplified the essence of discipleship: passing the faith to future generations. Paul instructed Timothy, "What you have heard from me entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2). This principle of training and succession ensured the gospels enduring spread. Paul was not only a preacher but also a mentor, understanding that long-lasting gospel impact depends on growing disciples who teach others. His words in 1 Corinthians 9:23 reflect his sacrificial heart: "I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings." Pauls commitment exemplifies the driving force behind discipleship and evangelism. Discipleship Legacies: John Sung and Wang Mingdaos Gospel Ministries John Sung and Wang Mingdao each exemplified the transformative power of discipleship. John Sungs work in universities trained students in gospel-rooted living, fostering a mission-minded generation. He recognized discipleship as a gradual, holistic journey, integrating faith into everyday life. Pauls advice in 2 Timothy 2:2entrusting faithful individuals to teach othersresonates with Sungs emphasis on discipleship for lasting gospel influence. Wang Mingdaos discipleship produced fearless Chinese evangelists. His method combined biblical teaching with practical living, empowering believers to embody Christlike character. His approach fueled revival in the Chinese church, demonstrating discipleships indispensable role in kingdom growth, as echoed in Matthew 28:20: "Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Their legacies illustrate how discipleship energizes gospel proclamation and church renewal. Building Modern Discipleship Frameworks In an age of cultural indifference and technological distraction, modern discipleship is vital. As faith wanes, effective discipleship guards against secular influences and anchors the church. Flexible strategies, like online groups and multimedia teaching, integrate discipleship into busy lives. Emphasizing application beyond knowledgethrough service, missions, and personal witnessdeepens spiritual roots and gospel engagement. Discipleship also thrives by developing leaders who mentor others, ensuring generational faithfulness. Conclusion: Journeying Together on the Great Commission Discipleship shapes believers and fuels gospel advancement. It enables us to stand on Christs foundation, seeing a broader mission field and proclaiming His glory. As the hymn expresses: "May our footsteps reach every distant land, proclaiming Your glory to the ends of the earth." We must train disciples who will carry the gospel torch, expanding Gods kingdom until Christ returns. Matthew 28:20 assures: "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." My 2025 vision is to grow personally in faith and globally advance discipleship, cultivating a generation of gospel-driven followers. This lifelong journey calls us to Gods grace, equipping us to reach uncharted corners of the world until His glorious return. (About the columnist: Soh Or Kan is an Indonesian Christian educator and minister) A 2024 survey from the Society for Truth and Light ()'s Center for Life and Ethics Research reveals that respondents from various backgrounds prioritize personal safety and fairness when it comes to transgender issues. When laws involve moral judgments, most respondents believe courts should not make the decisions. The study also indicates that religious believers share similar views with non-religious respondents, reflecting that many churches may rarely address gender topics in depth. Research Brief The Center for Life and Ethics Research conducted a study titled Perceptions and Acceptance of Transgender People. Professor Lee Shu-kam (), director of the Center for Business, Economic, and Public Policy Research at Hong Kong Shue Yan University (), analyzed the results. The study employed a quantitative approach using online surveys and snowball sampling. Data collection took place from December 13, 2023, to May 31, 2024, with 789 valid responses. Respondent Demographics: Gender: 43.6% male, 56.4% female. 43.6% male, 56.4% female. Age: 16.48% were 18-25, 20.91% were 26-45, 52.34% were 46-65, and 10.27% were 66 or older. 16.48% were 18-25, 20.91% were 26-45, 52.34% were 46-65, and 10.27% were 66 or older. Education: 49.56% held an associate or bachelors degree, and 30.93% had a masters degree or higher. 49.56% held an associate or bachelors degree, and 30.93% had a masters degree or higher. Marital Status: 36.76% were single, and 59.06% were married. 36.76% were single, and 59.06% were married. Children : 51.71% had no children, while 48.29% had children. : 51.71% had no children, while 48.29% had children. Employment: 49.62% were employed full-time, and 15.61% were students. 49.62% were employed full-time, and 15.61% were students. Religion: 79.21% identified as Christians, 4.69% as Catholics, and 13.69% had no religious affiliation. 79.21% identified as Christians, 4.69% as Catholics, and 13.69% had no religious affiliation. Familiarity with Transgender Individuals: 11.53% knew transgender people, while 88.47% did not. Respondents generally demonstrated an understanding of transgender and gender transition concepts, with average scores of 3.76 and 3.83, respectively. There was strong agreement with universal human rights principles, including the right to choose an occupation (4.6), respect for all genders (4.52), and kindness toward others (4.56). However, acceptance of fundamental transgender rights, such as the right to choose or change ones own gender, scored lower (2.38 and 2.39). When it comes to the use of public resources and money for the protection of the sexual minorities, there are also some reservations. Respondents were most against using public funds for gender reassignment surgeries (1.92) and the validity of recognizing gender based solely on self-identification (1.91). Respondents prioritized personal safety, finding it less acceptable for male-to-female transgender individuals who had not undergone full gender-affirming surgery to use female restrooms (mean score: 1.71) compared to female-to-male transgender individuals using male restrooms (mean score: 1.85). Additionally, respondents appeared to consider fairness when evaluating participation in sports. Male-to-female transgender individuals with incomplete gender-affirming surgery received a mean score of 1.77 for participating in womens fitness-related sports, while female-to-male transgender individuals with incomplete surgery received a mean score of 1.93 for participating in mens sports. In both cases, acceptance was lower for those with partial surgery compared to those who had completed gender-affirming surgery. Specifically, male-to-female transgender individuals with completed surgery scored 2.48 for participation in womens sports, and female-to-male transgender individuals with completed surgery scored 2.58 for participation in mens sports. Despite agreeing that all people have fundamental human rights, based on the analysis of the results, two key inferences for transgender rights evaluation can be drawn: personal safety and fairness, with different considerations for those who have completed all sex/gender reassignment surgeries or those who have not. For female-to-male individuals who underwent partial gender-affirming surgery but retained the uterus and other female reproductive organs, successfully conceiving and giving birth to a child, most respondents were more likely to accept the term "mother" to describe the person who gave birth. The idea of referring to a transgender person who gave birth as a "father" received lower acceptance, following traditionally accepted gender roles. Before conducting this study, researchers hypothesized that factors such as faith, parenthood, and profession would significantly influence views on transgender issues. However, these factors had limited impact. Despite a Christian-majority sample (79.21%), religious beliefs did not markedly shape opinions. Both believers and non-believers yielded similar results. However, it is not clear whether this indifference is caused by the lack of discussion in the Hong Kong church on the subject of sexuality. In any case, the church and society should give the congregation and the public a chance to discuss the issue, rather than avoiding or shying away from it. Due to length limitations, this research did not address the issue of incomplete sex or gender reassignment surgeries. However, a review of cases involving the legal status and marriage of transgender individuals in Hong Kong over the years shows that courts have defined the terms "transsexual" and "transgender" for the community, influencing public acceptance of these terms. According to this study, respondents gave an average rating of 3.19 to the statement that "legislation involving moral judgment should not be decided by the court" and 3.7 to the statement that "legislation involving moral judgment should be subject to public consultation." These findings suggest that the public is open to broader discussions and that decisions regarding transgender marriage and related issues should undergo more public debate before being finalized. *This article is a revised translation of the press release published by thr Society for Truth and Lights Center for Life and Ethics Research. As the new year begins, many Christians have resolved to take on the project of reading the Bible cover to cover. That's great and all, but if it's your first time, just where do you start? That's what Mike wanted to know on a recent episode of Ask Pastor John*, where Pastor John Piper, founder and teacher of Desiring God and chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary, gave guidance and encouragement to the excited but nervous listener. He recommended the Navigators Bible Reading Plan and gave "three negatives to scare you off and nine positives to suck you back in" for the journey up ahead. Three Negatives Ahead Piper began by outlining three key obstacles that readers should expect: 1Spiritual Opposition: Satan hates the word of God, Piper warned. Readers may feel distracted, disinclined, or bored. He urged listeners to pray for divine help, asking God to reverse Satans schemes and cultivate a heart inclined toward Scripture. 2Shocking Content: The Bibles graphic depictions of sin, judgment, and human failure can be jarring. Expect your views of man and God to be blown up in a good way, Piper said. 3Confusion: Scripture contains many mysteries. Some truths remain hidden (Deuteronomy 29:29), while others are simply hard to grasp (2 Peter 3:16). Piper reminded listeners that God appoints teachers to help clarify His word (1 Timothy 3:2). That is why readers must pray for understanding, study diligently, and keep moving forward when faced with confusing passages. Nine Positives of Bible Reading Despite these hurdles, Piper encouraged Mike and all believers with nine promises: 1Expect your faith to be deepened and strengthened: Romans 10:17 teaches that faith comes from hearing, deepening trust in God. 2Expect God to do serious liberating work in your life: Knowing the truth of Scripture sets believers free (John 8:32). 3Expect new power in war with Satan: Jesus triumph in the wilderness demonstrates the power of Gods word in spiritual battles. 4Expect a deep sanctifying work in your life: Immersion in truth leads to personal transformation (John 17:17). 5Expect to become a more loving person to those around you: Knowledge of Gods word fosters deeper love for others (Philippians 1:9). 6Expect that even though you are now saved in a decisive way, youre going to go on being saved by the Scriptures: Perseverance in Scripture sustains spiritual growth (1 Timothy 4:16). "The Bible is the means of God by which he goes on saving us." 7Expect joy great joy, unshakable joy that the world does not know: Jesus teachings offer a joy that endures (John 15:11). 8Expect to meet God meet God, not just truths about God: God reveals Himself through His word (1 Samuel 3:21). 9Finally, expect to see the glory of Christ: The Bible unveils the transformative glory of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). Encouragement to Persevere Piper closed with a prayerful exhortation, citing 2 Thessalonians 1:11: "To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every good resolve and every work of faith by his power. He urged Mike to make a vow before God to complete the reading plan, promising that the effort will be worth it. As 2025 unfolds, believers like Mike can draw inspiration from Pipers words, confident that the rewards of engaging with Gods word far outweigh the challenges. (This article was sourced from Desiring God) Featured FULL TEXT: President John Mahama's speech at January 7, 2025 inauguration GraphicOnline Opinion Jan - 07 - 2025 , 12:30 4 minutes read FULL TEXT: President John Mahama's speech at his January 7, 2025 inauguration. The Right Honorable Speaker of Parliament, Honorable Members of Parliament, Her Excellency, the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Jane Nana Opoku-Agyemang,** Advertisement Leadership, the Chief Justice, Your Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and special guest of honor for this occasion, Your Excellencies, Presidents, Heads of Government and Development Agencies, Your Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Former President, Your Excellency, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Distinguished Invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, My Brothers and Sisters, I wish you a good morning, and we give thanks to the Almighty God on this occasion. Our Father, who art in heaven, we thank you for giving us this day, a day that offers me, Your humble servant, a unique opportunity to work to reset our dear country, Ghana. 32 years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition, a reset with the swearing-in of the newly democratically elected president, Jerry John Rawlings, of blessed memory. Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established. I refer to it as a reset because, on that day in 1993, we made our fourth attempt at establishing a democratic system of government with term limits based on free, fair, and transparent elections. The handover of power on January 7, 2001, between former President Jerry John Rawlings and, at the time, the newly elected President John Agyekum Kufuor, tested that reset, and our nation passed with flying colors. So today, with my induction as the new President of the Republic of Ghana, history is being made once again, and it is a history worth repeating every four years with each newly elected president. Today, we're also making a different kind of history, one that speaks to our maturity as a democracy, a nation of citizens enfranchised with the authority at the polls to determine their political future. Today's exercise between the outgoing president, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and I feels a bit like deja vu. That is because eight years ago to this day, on January 7, 2017, we shared this same space and performed this same transitional exercise. At the time, I was the outgoing president, having served one term, and he was the incoming president, having been given a mandate by the people of Ghana to lead this great nation of ours. He and I both understood on that day, as I'm sure we do today, that it is the people of Ghana that we are elected to serve. Somehow it seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction because Nana Akufo-Addo and I began our national political careers in Parliament in the same year, 1996. He has always greeted me with a firm handshake and a smile, and he's perhaps the only person in my life who has persistently chosen to call me Johnny. While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect. In those early days, we probably could not have imagined that destiny would bring us to the leadership of our respective parties and that we would have to face off three separate times as we each vied for the highest office of the land. Nana, as this will be our final meeting under these circumstances, and as I look back on the journey we have traveled together, two much younger men entered Parliament together with a full head of black hair, and you with the same bald head and round eyeglasses, I have to say that you have, without exception, been a worthy opponent. I extend my warmest wishes to His Excellency, the former Vice President, Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia. It was a grueling campaign, and we gave it our all. Your sportsmanship in making an early concession eased tensions and contributed to the early conclusion of the electoral contest. I wish you all the best in your endeavors. My brothers and sisters, the world in which Ghana exists today as I begin this presidency is not the same world in which we have lived under other presidencies. There are tensions and conflicts that have not previously existed between nations. These tensions and conflicts place pressure on alliances to decide where we will support. Read the entire speech below; Featured Female prison officer filmed having sex with inmate jailed 15 months bbc.com International News Jan - 06 - 2025 , 21:03 2 minutes read A former HMP Wandsworth prison officer who was filmed having sex with an inmate has been jailed for 15 months. Linda De Sousa Abreu was identified by senior prison staff after the clip was shared online and quickly went viral. The governor of Wandsworth said Abreu's actions had taken "less than a day" to undo the many years of work on behalf of female staff in all-male prisons. Abreu, 30, who was arrested at Heathrow Airport before attempting to board a flight to Madrid with her father, previously pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office. Advertisement In a partial written statement to Isleworth Crown Court, Andrew Davy, the governor of Wandsworth, said many female staff at the prison had reported an increase in being "hit on" by inmates and were now "considered fair game". Abreu and the inmate were filmed in a cell between 26 and 28 June. The Metropolitan Police said inquiries were ongoing into the two prisoners identified in the video. The court was also told that a further recording of her performing a sex act with the same inmate was found on her prison-issue body-worn camera - and Abreu had admitted to having sex with that prisoner on an additional occasion. Judge Martin Edmunds KC said the video that went viral was therefore not isolated and was part of repeated behaviour. A spokesperson for the Prison Service said: "While the overwhelming majority of Prison Service staff are hardworking and honest, we're catching more of the small minority who break the rules by bolstering our Counter Corruption Unit and strengthening our vetting processes. "As today's sentencing demonstrates, where officers do fall below our high standards we won't hesitate to take robust action." The Prison Officers' Association, which represents prison staff, said it acknowledged there were a small number of corrupt staff working in prisons who undermined the work of others. Next article: Your Votes Will Matter: President Mahama tells Ghanaians as he takes office Previous article: Highlights of John Mahamas Inaugural Speech: A reflection of deep commitment to progress, prosperity of the Ghanaian people Featured 20 important things President John Mahama said at his Jan 7, 2025, inauguration Kweku Zurek Jan - 07 - 2025 , 12:43 4 minutes read Mr. John Dramani Mahama has been officially sworn in as Ghanas president at a grand inauguration ceremony held today at the Black Star Square in Accra. Thousands of Ghanaians, alongside dignitaries and global leaders, gathered to witness the historic event, which marked an important moment in Ghanas democratic journey. Related: John Dramani Mahama sworn in as Ghanas President FULL TEXT: President John Mahama speech at January 7, 2025 inauguration Advertisement Below are 20 important highlights from his inaugural address; 1. Acknowledgement of Ghanas democratic journey Thirty-two years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established. 2. Commitment to the people It is the people of Ghana that we are elected to serve. 3. Reflection on Political Rivalry with Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect You have, without exception, been a worthy opponent. 4. Appreciation for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia Your sportsmanship in making an early concession eased tensions and contributed to the early conclusion of the electoral contest. 5. Global economic shifts The combined total of the GDP of the BRICS nations has been consistently increasing, while the G7s share has been steadily dropping. 6. Technological challenges Technologies such as artificial intelligence open up the potential for national, financial, and personal security issues that we are not yet able to imagine. 7. Climate crisis and pandemics With the increase of the climate crisis theres a greater likelihood for viruses that have been frozen and thought to be extinct to create another global pandemic. 8. Strengthening public health systems My government will be working diligently to strengthen our public health systems so that whennot ifthe next pandemic or epidemic occurs, the loss of lives in Ghana will be minimal. 9. The need for a reset Today should mark the beginning of a new opportunityan opportunity for us to make a difference in our governance and our economic management. 10. Gratitude to voters To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues your courage to bring change will not go in vain. 11. Faith in Ghanas future We need a reset with the faith we have in our country and our leadership because all of us are Ghana. You are Ghana, and I am Ghana. 12. Historic appointment of Ghanas first female Vice President With the inauguration of Ghanas first female vice president, we have turned a significant page in our history. 13. Support for gender equality Nana Janes ascension symbolizes our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified. 14. Four priority areas Well focus our initial efforts on four critical areas: economic restoration, improvement of the business environment, governance and constitutional reforms, and accountability and the fight against corruption. 15. Introduction of a 24-hour economy We envisage an innovative and vibrant 24-hour Ghanaian economy, which will also be anchored in agriculture and agribusiness. 16. Job creation and empowerment Together with the private sector we will create decent and well-paying jobs. 17. Inclusivity in governance Our decisions will champion diversity in all facets of governance, ensuring that every Ghanaian has the opportunity to contribute to our nations story. 18. Call to business leaders To the business leaders and entrepreneurs, I invite you to support this new model and join me in shaping a business environment where creativity thrives. 19. Ghana is open for business Members of the business community, I assure you: Ghana is open for business again. 20. Call to action This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where hope thrives, and dreams become a reality. These statements highlight President Mahamas vision for progress, inclusivity, and transformation in Ghana. Next article: Son arrested for allegedly killing mother with pestle after history of threats Featured Akufo-Addo throws out Kweku Azar's petition asking for removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo Graphic.com.gh Jan - 06 - 2025 , 21:51 4 minutes read A petition filed by constitutional lawyer and Professor of accounting, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, commonly known as Kweku Azar, asking for the removal of the Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo from office on grounds of incompetence has been dismissed by the presidency. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo through his Director of Communications announced on Monday night [Jan 6, 2025] the petition lacks merit. In the 19-page petition submited to Office of the President, the petitioner had alleged that the Chief Justice, Justice Torkonoo had made some unpardonable offences which should not go unpunished. Prof Asare, currently domiciled in the United States of America cited misconduct on the part of the CJ as one of the basis he is asking for the removal of the CJ from office. Advertisement The private legal practitioner, who is a reformist enumerated a number of cases of incompetence against the CJ, including the transfer of judges sitting on what he said were high profile cases, and allegation of reconstitution of Supreme Court panels to substantiate his case. Prof. Asare said his petition was grounded in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution which provides the basis for the removal of the CJ. His petition ended up in the media domain and was published by several media outlets The first step in the removal of a Chief Justice from office begins with a petition to a sitting President in accordance with the 1992 Constitution. One of the reasons President Akufo-Addo cited for dismissing the petition that, "the President feels constrained to observe that, contrary to constitutional provisions, the petition was prematurely circulated in the public domain, in breach of Article 146(8) of the Constitution, which mandates that proceedings of this nature be held in camera to protect the integrity of the Judiciary. Such a violation undermines the solemnity of the process and the principles enshrined in the Constitution to safeguard judicial independence." Again the presidency indicated that, the petition was submitted without supporting evidence or documentation to substantiate its claims. It said "the allegations, including claims of panel reconstitution, issuance of practice directions, and purported constitutional breaches by the Chief Justice, were found to be unsupported by evidence. The petitioner failed to demonstrate any factual basis or provide credible documentation to substantiate these claims." "Second, the processes and practices cited by the petitioner, such as the Chief Justice's administrative responsibilities under the Courts Act, were found to be consistent with the law and established practices," it added. Attached below is a copy of the statement from the presidency dismissing the petition PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO DISMISSES PETITION AGAINST CHIEF JUSTICE The Office of the President wishes to inform the general public that, after a thorough and careful review of the petition for the removal of the Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in consultation with the Council of State, has concluded that the petition does not disclose a prima facie case warranting further action. The petition was submitted by Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, citing allegations of misbehaviour and incompetence against the Chief Justice. Upon review, the President observed several deficiencies in the petition. The principal ones were: First, the petition was submitted without supporting evidence or documentation to substantiate its claims. The allegations, including claims of panel reconstitution, issuance of practice directions, and purported constitutional breaches by the Chief Justice, were found to be unsupported by evidence. The petitioner failed to demonstrate any factual basis or provide credible documentation to substantiate these claims. Second, the processes and practices cited by the petitioner, such as the Chief Justice's administrative responsibilities under the Courts Act, were found to be consistent with the law and established practices. The President feels constrained to observe that, contrary to constitutional provisions, the petition was prematurely circulated in the public domain, in breach of Article 146(8) of the Constitution, which mandates that proceedings of this nature be held in camera to protect the integrity of the Judiciary. Such a violation undermines the solemnity of the process and the principles enshrined in the Constitution to safeguard judicial independence. The President is unhappy to observe that such a violation should have been occasioned by a lawyerBased on these findings and observations, and in alignment with the recommendations of the Council of State, the petition is deemed frivolous, vexatious and unmeritorious. President Akufo-Addo reaffirms his unallayed commitment to the independence and integrity of the judiciary, which remains a cornerstone of Ghana's democracy. The Office of the President cautions against attempts to undermine judicial independence through baseless allegations, and emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional provisions in addressing grievances. Eugene Arhin Director of Communications Office of the President Featured Amnesty International urges President-elect Mahama to address pressing human rights issues Kweku Zurek Jan - 07 - 2025 , 08:57 3 minutes read As President-elect John Dramani Mahama is sworn into office today, Amnesty International has called on his new administration to prioritise the promotion and protection of human rights. The international organisation has outlined key areas requiring urgent attention, including gender equality, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to a healthy environment. "President John Mahama and his new government should work to prioritise and tackle key human rights issues head-on over the coming years," said Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty Internationals Interim Regional Director for West and Central Africa in a statement. "This must include addressing barriers to gender equality, protecting women from witchcraft accusations, and reforming laws that repress peaceful protests." Advertisement Gender equality and womens rights Amnesty International highlighted the need for increased representation of women in political and public life. Although the Affirmative Action Act was signed into law in 2024 to increase womens participation to 30 percent by 2026 and 50 percent by 2030, women currently make up less than 15 percent of Ghanas 275-member Parliament. The appointment of Ghanas first female Vice-President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, marks progress. However, Genevieve Partington, Country Director of Amnesty International Ghana, urged the government to take further measures. "The new government must ensure equal opportunities for women to participate in policymaking and public office at all levels," she said. End witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks Amnesty International expressed deep concern over the widespread practice of witchcraft accusations, particularly in the Northern and North-East regions. These accusations have subjected women to violence, abuse, and displacement. A proposed Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill to criminalise witchcraft accusations was passed by Parliament in 2023 but was not signed into law by the previous President. Amnesty called on the new government to pass specific legislation to criminalise these acts and implement education campaigns on their harmful effects. Freedom of peaceful assembly Amnesty International reported multiple incidents of alleged police repression of peaceful protests in 2024, including arrests and bans under the Public Order Act. Activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who organised a September 2024 protest against corruption, stated: "The law requires that police be notified at least five days before a protest. We usually notify them three months ahead, but they still stop demonstrations." Genevieve Partington called for reforms to the Public Order Act to allow spontaneous protests and urged the government to drop charges against demonstrators who exercised their right to peaceful assembly. The harmful effects of illegal small-scale mining, or galamsey, were also highlighted. In 2024, Ghana Water Company Ltd. reported that pollution from galamsey had rendered the Pra River unsuitable for water treatment, impacting water supply to Cape Coast and surrounding areas. "The government must enforce mining laws and uphold its promise to ban illegal mining in forest reserves,"** said Genevieve Partington. Amnesty International concluded by urging President Mahama to demonstrate a clear commitment to these pressing issues. "Now is the right time for the President and his government to prioritise human rights and make meaningful changes that benefit everyone in Ghana," said Partington. The organisation expressed hope that this new administration would usher in a chapter of strengthened human rights protections and governance in Ghana. Next article: 'I am grateful for this great honour' Bagbin accepts role as Speaker of Ghana's 9th Parliament. Featured Bernard Ahiafor, Andrew Asiamah elected as 1st and 2nd Deputy Speakers Beatrice Laryea Jan - 07 - 2025 , 03:03 2 minutes read The Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, Bernard Ahiafor, has been elected as the 1st Deputy Speaker of Ghanas 9th Parliament. His nomination, put forward by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was seconded by the Deputy Minority Leader. In addition, the Member of Parliament for Fomena, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, has been elected as the 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament, a position he has held since January 2021. Bernard Ahiafor, a seasoned lawmaker from the Volta Region, has represented Akatsi South since 2013. A practising lawyer by profession, Ahiafor is highly regarded for his expertise in legal matters. He has served on several key parliamentary committees, including the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee. Advertisement His vast experience in parliamentary procedures and legal affairs is expected to significantly enhance his role as 1st Deputy Speaker. The election of the Deputy Speakers followed the official inauguration of the 9th Parliament, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra. Earlier, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, re-elected as Speaker of Parliament, was sworn into office by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin, who had previously served as Speaker during the 8th Parliament, was re-nominated by the NDC and received overwhelming support from Members of Parliament. His re-election as Speaker is viewed as a key moment in Ghanas democratic development, as he continues to provide experienced leadership to the House. Following his swearing-in, Speaker Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for the 275 Members of Parliament-elect, excluding the representative from the Ablekuma North constituency. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries, marked the beginning of a new legislative era. With the NDC emerging as the majority party in the 2024 elections, securing 183 of the 276 seats in Parliament, the party retained its leadership team for the 9th Parliament. The NDCs leadership for the new session includes: Majority Leader: Cassiel Ato Forson (MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam) Deputy Majority Leader: Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP for Ellembelle) Majority Chief Whip: Governs Kwame Agbodza (MP for Adaklu) Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Ahmed Ibrahim (MP for Banda) Next article: 20 important things President John Mahama said at his Jan 7, 2025, inauguration Previous article: President Tinubu calls for unity among African leaders to tackle shared challenges at Mahama's inauguration Featured Highlights of John Mahamas Inaugural Speech: A reflection of deep commitment to progress, prosperity of the Ghanaian people Beatrice Laryea Jan - 07 - 2025 , 13:09 4 minutes read In his inaugural address, the newly-sworn-in President, John Dramani Mahama, delivered an inspiring and visionary speech that underscored his strong commitment to the progress and prosperity of the Ghanaian people. With eloquence and clarity, he outlined a compelling roadmap for the nations future, emphasizing unity, innovation, and resilience. His speech resonated with hope and determination, uniting the nation toward a shared purpose. President Mahama assured Ghanaians that he would govern with sound judgment and take full responsibility for addressing the countrys challenges. I will have the humility to take responsibility for any challenges and be willing to ask for help in resolving them, he stated. Advertisement To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues and waited in the sun to vote for me, you have my sincerest thanks for honouring me. Your courage to bring change will not go in vain, Mahama said, pledging to make decisions that will positively impact the destiny of the nation. Below are the key highlights of his speech. Mahama outlined four key areas his administration will prioritise: Economic restoration and stabilisation Improvement of the business and investment environment Governance and constitutional reforms Accountability and the fight against corruption He assured businesses and investors that Ghana is open for business again, promising a more transparent and fair tax regime to stimulate growth. We will rationalise our tax systems to make them fair and transparent. The business community must know that Ghana is back in business, he declared. Call for a national reset Mahama stressed the need for a national reset to restore faith in Ghanas institutions and leadership. We need a reset of faith in our country, in our institutions, and in ourselves, he said. You are Ghana, I am Ghana. Together, we make this country. Let us enter into a covenant to build the Ghana we all desire. Call for a national reset Mahama stressed the need for a national reset to restore faith in Ghanas institutions and leadership. We need a reset of faith in our country, in our institutions, and in ourselves, he said. You are Ghana, I am Ghana. Together, we make this country. Let us enter into a covenant to build the Ghana we all desire. He called on citizens to envision the Ghana they want to leave behind for future generations, urging a shift in attitudes, behaviours, and mindsets to achieve collective progress. Empowering youth and women The President paid special attention to youth and women, promising policies that will foster job creation and inclusivity. Our youth represent the heartbeat of our democracy. Their ambitions will drive our policies, Mahama said, pledging to implement a 24-hour economy model to create jobs and stimulate local industries. He also celebrated Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemangs historic achievement as Ghanas first female vice president, describing her inauguration as a symbol of progress toward gender equality. With Nana Jane by my side, we are committed to creating a society where barriers are shattered, and ambitions are realised, he said. We will implement policies that empower women and ensure opportunities are open to all, regardless of background. 24-hour economy Mahama introduced the concept of a 24-hour economy, aimed at unlocking Ghanas dormant economic potential by keeping markets, public services, and businesses operational round-the-clock. This model will create decent jobs for young people, stimulate local industry, attract foreign investments, and foster resilient communities, Mahama explained. He painted a vision of bustling markets, flexible business hours, and responsive public services operating at all times to meet citizens diverse needs. Commitment to diversity and inclusivity Mahama pledged that his administration would champion diversity in governance, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, or religion, has a role to play in the nations progress. Our decisions will prioritise inclusivity, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table, he stated. We will create an equitable society where opportunities are open to all. Message to the business community He invited business leaders and entrepreneurs to support his vision, highlighting the private sectors critical role in Ghanas growth. Your innovation and dedication will be the backbone of our success story, Mahama said. He reassured the business community that his administration would work to foster a business-friendly environment and promote public-private partnerships. Regional cooperation and international partnerships Mahama expressed his commitment to strengthening Ghanas ties with neighbouring countries and working collectively toward regional stability and economic growth. To our friends from across Africa and the world, I say Akwaaba! Your presence is a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that exist between our nations, he said. A call to action for Ghanaians Mahama ended his speech with a patriotic call to action, inviting Ghanaians to partner with his administration in building a better future. This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where unity, progress, and equality are not just ideals but the very fabric of our nation, he said. Featured 'I am grateful for this great honour' Bagbin accepts role as Speaker of Ghana's 9th Parliament. Beatrice Laryea Jan - 07 - 2025 , 02:40 2 minutes read The Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Alban Sumani Alban Bagbin has expressed sincere appreciation for the opportunity to remain in his role as Speaker for the 9th Parliament in the 4th Republic. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Bagbin extended his gratitude to the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, and to the National Democratic Congress leadership for their confidence in his candidacy. He also thanked the members of the House for their continued trust in working with him and assured them that he would leverage his experience to guide the House in fulfilling its duties with both efficiency and dedication. Read acceptance speech below Your Ladyship, the Chief Justice, Justice Mrs. Gertrude Araba Esaba Sackey Torkornu, Honourable Members of Parliament-Elects, your Excellencies, members of the Diplomatic Corps present, our most revered spiritual and traditional leaders, distinguished invited guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is with great humility that I accept to serve the Republic of Ghana, having had the same honour to be Speaker of the Eighth Parliament. Advertisement I am grateful to the Almighty God for His grace and mercies for me to achieve this rare feat. To Him be all the praise and honour. Honourable Members of Parliament-Elects, you have proposed in me to be Speaker and to head this Honourable House once more. I also express my gratitude to the President Elect, His Excellency John Brahmani Mahama, for the trust and confidence in my candidature, in consultation with the leadership of the great National Democratic Congress, to the Ninth Parliament, with my experience as the longest legislator of the House. I now come to the Ninth Parliament with the experience of four years of speakership of a very difficult-hung Parliament. I promise to bring all these experiences to bear, in guiding this House to perform its mandate with efficiency, diligence, and above all, with a sense of being, the bulwark of democracy in Ghana. To the good people of Ghana, who continue to hope for a better Ghana, I urge you to support your Parliament and be interested and engaged with the work of Parliament. As the Standing Orders of Parliament directs, after we have performed this duty of electing me as the Speaker of Parliament, I will have a singular honour and duty posed by the Standing Orders of the House, that is, to swear in the members-elect, and proceed to supervise the election of two Deputy Speakers of the House. Once again, I am very grateful for this great honour, and thank you so much. Featured John Dramani Mahama sworn in as Ghanas President Kweku Zurek Jan - 07 - 2025 , 11:13 5 minutes read Mr. John Dramani Mahama has been officially sworn in as Ghanas president at a grand inauguration ceremony held at the Black Star Square in Accra. Thousands of Ghanaians, alongside dignitaries and global leaders, gathered to witness the historic event, which marked an important moment in Ghanas democratic journey. President Mahama, 65, assumes office after a decisive victory in last years presidential election, where he secured 56.6 percent of the vote against the New Patriotic Partys (NPP) candidate, then Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who garnered 41.6 percent. This margin of victory is the largest seen in Ghanas elections in 24 years, with a voter turnout of 60.9 percent. Mahama replaces Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, promising to address pressing issues such as economic challenges, corruption, unemployment, and the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, known locally as "galamsey." Advertisement Historic return Mr. Mahamas inauguration is particularly significant as it represents a stunning political comeback. After serving as president from 2012 to 2017. Mahama lost the 2016 and 2020 elections. His return to power has been hailed as a testament to his resilience and the electorate's demand for change. The victory also continues Ghanas tradition of alternating power between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the NPP, with no party winning more than two consecutive terms since the return to multi-party democracy in 1992. Oaths of Office Mr. Mahama Mahama and Vice-President-elect Professor Jane Naane Opoku Agyemang were administered the oaths of office by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo with the latter taking her turn first in the ceremony which also doubled as a sitting of the ninth Parliament. They took the Oath of Allegiance first followed by the Oaths for their respective Offices as President and Vice President. Inaugural address In his inaugural speech, President Mahama addressed key national issues, outlining his vision for the future of Ghana. Reflecting on Ghanas democratic progress, President Mahama highlighted the significance of January 7 in the nations history. Thirty-two years ago, on January 7, Ghana made its first and most successful democratic transition Our nation was returned to a multi-party democracy with a new constitution that went into effect, and the Fourth Republic was officially established, he said. He described the Fourth Republic as a reset that paved the way for stable governance and peaceful transfers of power. Mutual Respect with President Akufo-Addo President Mahamas speech included a reflection on his political rivalry with outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. While we belong to opposing political parties, we shared a sense of mutual respect You have, without exception, been a worthy opponent, he said. He recounted their parallel political journeys that began in Parliament in 1996, adding, Somehow, it seems fitting that it is with Nana Akufo-Addo that I twice shared this stage and this unique historical distinction. Gratitude to voters Expressing appreciation to Ghanaians, the President acknowledged the confidence reposed in him. To the millions of my fellow countrymen and women who joined long queues and waited in the sun for their turn to vote for me, you have my sincerest thanks Your courage to bring change will not go in vain, he assured. Tackling economic challenges President Mahamas speech focused heavily on addressing Ghanas economic difficulties. He noted the seismic shifts in global economic power, saying, The combined total of the GDP of the BRICS nations has been consistently increasing, while the G7s share has been steadily dropping. He stressed the importance of positioning Ghana to adapt to these changes and pledged to prioritise economic restoration and stabilisation. We will focus our initial efforts on four critical areas: economic restoration and stabilisation of the macroeconomic environment; improvement of the business and investment environment; governance and constitutional reforms; and accountability and the fight against corruption, President Mahama outlined. 24-Hour economy One of the standout promises of President Mahamas inaugural address was the introduction of a 24-hour economy. We envisage an innovative and vibrant 24-hour Ghanaian economy, which will also be anchored in agriculture and agribusiness, he stated. This initiative aims to stimulate local industries, attract foreign investment, and create decent and well-paying jobs for Ghanas youth. Inclusivity and gender representation President Mahama celebrated the historic inauguration of Ghanas first female Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, calling it a significant page in our history. He added, Nana Janes ascension symbolises our collective commitment to fostering a nation where gender equality and female representation are cherished and amplified. Strengthening public health Acknowledging the lessons from past pandemics, President Mahama pledged to strengthen Ghanas public health infrastructure. Whennot ifthe next pandemic or epidemic occurs, the loss of lives in Ghana will be minimal, he promised. Call to action Ending on an optimistic note, President Mahama called on Ghanaians to unite in building a brighter future. This is a patriotic call to action for all of us to participate in building a nation that lives up to its promise, where hope thrives, and dreams become a reality, he concluded. Looking ahead The challenges facing Mahamas administration are significant. During his previous tenure, Ghana grappled with economic difficulties, persistent power cuts, and corruption scandals. Many Ghanaians are hopeful that his return will herald a new era of progress and accountability. As the nation enters this new chapter under President Mahamas leadership, all eyes are on his administration to deliver on its promises and restore hope to the Ghanaian people. The coming months will be critical in shaping the legacy of his unprecedented third term. Featured President Tinubu calls for unity among African leaders to tackle shared challenges at Mahama's inauguration Kweku Zurek Jan - 07 - 2025 , 13:45 3 minutes read In an address at the inauguration of Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama at the Black Star Square in Accra, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called on African leaders to unite in tackling the continent's shared challenges. His speech stressed the importance of solidarity, resilience, and a collective effort to overcome poverty, youth unemployment, and instability. President Tinubu began by celebrating the democratic transition in Ghana, highlighting it as a testament to the strength of African democracy. "Today, we celebrate African democracy as Ghana and our beloved people mark the transition from one democratic government to another," he stated. He underscored that this milestone is not just a symbol of Ghana's democratic evolution but also a demonstration of West Africa's capability for democratic and productive endeavours. Advertisement He urged critics to recognise the progress made by African nations, asserting, "It is time that our continent's critics stop forgetting this right that Ghana, Nigeria, and others have. We need not prove ourselves to them. We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves." President Tinubu's speech was a clarion call for unity and cooperation among African nations. He emphasised the need for African leaders to work together to lift their nations out of poverty and build strong, resilient economies. "We will lift our nations out of poverty and build strong and resilient economies for our people," he declared. He also highlighted the symbolic significance of the Black Star, a symbol of Ghana's independence and unity. "The sun is out and the sky may be blue, but I see today a black star rising, rising high in Africa's sky. This black star shines over this nation and its rays spread across this continent with a sense of shared history, compassion, unity, and devotion to our common welfare," he said. President Tinubu called for peaceful dialogue and mutual respect among African nations, urging leaders to avoid conflicts and external interference. "We must choose the path of peaceful dialogue. Never can we do harm to our brothers, nor can we permit any outsider to disrupt our bonds of brotherhood," he asserted. He paid tribute to Ghana's founding father, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and Nigeria's founding fathers, drawing inspiration from their vision and leadership. "The spirit of Ghana's first Republic President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, is here, present today, lifting that star higher and higher," he said. "Nigeria similarly draws inspiration from its founding fathers, who not only fought for our independence but also cherished the close relationship between our two nations." President Tinubu expressed confidence in President Mahama's leadership, describing him as a man of patriotic vision and substance. "Your new president is a man of patriotic vision and substance. He loves his nation and his people to the core. He believes that your nation has a mission and intends for you all to fulfil it," he said. In closing, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria's support for Ghana and called for a renewed focus on regional integration and progress. "We are your brothers and sisters, we shall always be there for you. May your administration be a profound success and progress for you, Ghanaians, and the entire region," he concluded. The inauguration ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across Africa and the world. Featured Son arrested for allegedly killing mother with pestle after history of threats GNA Jan - 06 - 2025 , 21:38 1 minute read A 26-year-old farmer, Yaw Nimoah, has been arrested by the Dambai Police Command for allegedly killing his mother, Madam Salomey Ama Serwaa, a 60-year-old with a pestle at Yabram, a suburb of Oti Regional capital, Dambai. Mr Philip Kwadwo Bidaba, the Assembly member of Kwame-Akura East Electoral Area told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that, suspect Nimoah had a long history of threatening his mother with cutlass on several occasions. He said the suspects behaviour had become a concern for the community and he had previously threatened a neighbour with cutlass leading to his arrest, however, he was later released. Mr Bidaba told GNA that he received a distress call from a good Samaritan, who witnessed the suspect shouting for help, claiming someone had smashed the head of his mother. Advertisement According to the Assembly member, he and his Unit Committee Chairman rushed to the scene, where they found the woman lying in a pool of blood on a mat with a smashed head. I immediately called the Police command and reported the incident, the Police arrived promptly, arrested the suspect and later returned to collect the deceased, who was then deposited at the morgue of the WoraWora Government Hospital for preservation, Mr Bidaba added. The Police source, who confirmed the incident said investigations have been opened into the circumstances surrounding the incident, while the suspect, Nimoah is currently in Police custody. Featured Afenyo-Markin slams ORAL Committee, says it's a tool for personal vendettas Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics Jan - 06 - 2025 , 20:24 3 minutes read The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has strongly criticised the establishment of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee by the incoming administration, labelling it as a mechanism to persecute former appointees of the Akufo-Addo government. Speaking during his closing remarks at the final meeting of the Eighth Parliament ahead of its dissolution today, Mr Afenyo-Markin condemned the committee as unconstitutional and unnecessary. It is on this note that I condemn, in no uncertain terms, the establishment of the so-called ORAL committee, he stated. The ORAL initiative by President-elect John Mahama aims to combat corruption and state capture as part of the incoming administrations efforts to promote accountability. Following the 2024 elections, its work has drawn public attention. Advertisement Due process must prevail Referring to an earlier statement by the Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, on the need for better approaches to tackling alleged corruption, Mr Afenyo-Markin stressed that the Majority believed in upholding the rule of law. When somebody commits a crime, the due process of the law must be allowed to take effect, he noted, warning that the ORAL committees actions could disrupt governance. If we allow this committee to continue with its so-called wild goose chase, it will disturb the governance of this country. We do not need any so-called ORAL as we have institutions of the state, he said. Concerns over abuse of rights The Majority Leader expressed concerns that the committee could infringe on citizens rights, stating: We do not want people to be chasing people into peoples houses, going into peoples bedrooms, thinking that their government is in office and so they should chase people for ill-gotten wealth. He acknowledged, however, that while Ghanaians were discontent with the ORAL committees work, they should support lawful state institutions to function effectively. Touch One, Touch All mantra Mr Afenyo-Markin revealed that the incoming Minority Caucus had adopted the mantra Touch one, touch all as a rallying cry against what he described as witch-hunting by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) majority. We are not going to allow you (NDC) to use unconstitutional means to shut us up, to frustrate and chase people into their homes. We will stand firm and collective in ensuring that we stop any injustice; let us allow the laws of the country to work, he declared. He also called on the incoming NDC majority to focus on fulfilling its promises to Ghanaians instead of pursuing political opponents. Ghana has come of age, and it is not a populist agenda that makes a nation strong. It is the due process of law that builds a strong nation, he concluded, urging the NDC to use its limited four-year term to prioritise development over partisan pursuits. Previous article: Meet Collins Dauda, the 'Mugabe' record holder of Ghana's Parliament, he has entered his 8th term as MP Featured Bagbin sets record for being part of all parliaments since 1993, equals Justice D.F. Annan's record as Speaker of Parliament for two terms Enoch Darfah Frimpong Politics Jan - 07 - 2025 , 05:35 6 minutes read Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has equaled the record of the late Justice Daniel Francis Annan by being elected and sworn into office as Speaker of Parliament for a second term. He has also set a record of being part of all Parliaments of Ghana since January 7, 1993 both as a Member of Parliament and Speaker of Parliament. Apart from Justice D. F. Annan, the first Speaker under the 4th Republican Constitution of 1992, who served two terms from January 7, 1993, to January 6, 1997, and then from January 7, 1997, to January 6, 2001, all other Speakers of Parliament have served one term each. The election and swearing into office of Mr Bagbin for the second term as Speaker in the 9th Parliament, therefore makes him equal Justice D.F. Annan's record. All other Speakers did one term. For Justice D.F. Annan, he did his two terms under the same President, Jerry John Rawlings. Advertisement But for Bagbin, he is doing it under two different presidents and in the tenure of two different political parties, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and John Dramani of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). It also makes Mr Bagbin the only person who has been part of all the nine Parliaments under the 1992 Constitution, He started on January 7, 1993, as a Member of Parliament, representing the people of Nadowli. He held on to that position until January 6, 2021, and became Speaker on January 7, 2021. A list of all Speakers under the 4th Republic Justice Daniel Francis Annan - January 7, 1993 to January 6, 1997 Justice Daniel Francis Annan - January 7, 1997 to January 6, 2001 Peter Ala Adjetey - January 7, 2001 to January 6, 2005 Ebenezer Begyina Sekyi Hughes - January 7, 2005 to January 6, 2009 Justice Joyce Adeline Bamford-Addo - January 7, 2009 to January 6, 2013 Edward Doe Adjaho - January 7, 2013 to January 6, 2017 Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye - January 7, 2017 to January 6, 2021 Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin - January 7, 2021 to January 6, 2025 Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin - January 7, 2021 to ... Who is Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin Mr Bagbin attended the Sombo R. C. Primary and the Wa Secondary Schools in the Upper West Region, and proceeded to the Tamale Secondary School in the Northern Region where he obtained his Advanced Level Certificate in 1977. He gained admission to the University of Ghana School of Law and graduated in 1980 with a Degree in Law and English. He enrolled at the Ghana Law School and was subsequently called to the Bar in 1982. He holds a Certificate in Privatization in Public Utilities and Infrastructure from the Eastern South Africa Management Institute (ESAMI), Tanzania, and an Executive Masters Degree in Governance and Leadership from Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in 2008. Mr Bagbin earlier worked with the antecedent of the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) as Assistant Administrative Officer and acting Secretary to the Board. Having joined the Akyem Chambers earlier, he continued with his legal practice whilst at GSS. He was later employed by the erstwhile State Hotels Corporation as Personnel Manager before leaving for Libya to teach English. He returned in 1986 and between 1989 and 1992, he was the external solicitor for a number of Banks, Industries, Stools and other clients. Later, he established a private Law Firm, the Law Trust Company, together with two partners. He was the Managing Partner. The Speaker was elected MP in 1992 and sworn into Parliament in January 1993. He chaired various committees of Parliament, including the Public Accounts Committee, Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, and House Committee. He first led the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the Minority Leader in Parliament from January 7, 2001. In this role, he distinguished himself. In January 2009, he was again appointed this time as the Majority Leader. He was later brought into the Executive to serve as the Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing, and also as Minister of Health. He also worked as an adviser in the Office of the President. He was returned to Parliament leadership once more as the indefatigable Majority Leader. Again, he distinguished himself. In January 2017, as the record 7th Term MP for Nadowli, he was elected as the 2nd Deputy Speaker to serve under the Speakership of Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye Snr., in the 7th Parliament. Speaker Bagbin has served on a number of Boards and international organisations including the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Group (ACP), the European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly (EUJPA), International Council for Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA), and Global Organization for Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC). He served on the Governing Board of the Ghana Ports and Harbors Authority (GPHA), Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), National Media Commission (NMC) and the Legal Aid Board. He was eventually elected as Speaker of the 8th Parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana. He has been in Parliament since January 1993 to January 2021 as MP for Nadowli and from January 2021 to January 2025 as the substantive Speaker. He is the immediate past President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and also the President of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments in Africa. He has been a Member of the Ghana Bar Association since 1982. 43yrs at the Bar Related: 'I am grateful for this great honour' Bagbin accepts role as Speaker of Ghana's 9th Parliament. Speaking after his election and swearing as Speaker for the 9th Parliament on Tuesday dawn [Jan 7], Mr Bagbin expressed sincere appreciation for the opportunity to remain in his role as Speaker. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Bagbin extended his gratitude to the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, and to the National Democratic Congress leadership for their confidence in his candidacy. He also thanked the members of the House for their continued trust in working with him and assured them that he would leverage his experience to guide the House in fulfilling its duties with both efficiency and dedication. Attached below is a copy of his acceptance speech below Your Ladyship, the Chief Justice, Justice Mrs. Gertrude Araba Esaba Sackey Torkornu, Honourable Members of Parliament-Elects, your Excellencies, members of the Diplomatic Corps present, our most revered spiritual and traditional leaders, distinguished invited guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is with great humility that I accept to serve the Republic of Ghana, having had the same honour to be Speaker of the Eighth Parliament. I am grateful to the Almighty God for His grace and mercies for me to achieve this rare feat. To Him be all the praise and honour. Honourable Members of Parliament-Elects, you have proposed in me to be Speaker and to head this Honourable House once more. I also express my gratitude to the President Elect, His Excellency John Brahmani Mahama, for the trust and confidence in my candidature, in consultation with the leadership of the great National Democratic Congress, to the Ninth Parliament, with my experience as the longest legislator of the House. I now come to the Ninth Parliament with the experience of four years of speakership of a very difficult-hung Parliament. I promise to bring all these experiences to bear, in guiding this House to perform its mandate with efficiency, diligence, and above all, with a sense of being, the bulwark of democracy in Ghana. To the good people of Ghana, who continue to hope for a better Ghana, I urge you to support your Parliament and be interested and engaged with the work of Parliament. As the Standing Orders of Parliament directs, after we have performed this duty of electing me as the Speaker of Parliament, I will have a singular honour and duty posed by the Standing Orders of the House, that is, to swear in the members-elect, and proceed to supervise the election of two Deputy Speakers of the House. Once again, I am very grateful for this great honour, and thank you so much. Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Next article: Alban Bagbin pledges to lead Ghanas 9th Parliament with diligence and efficiency Bagbin urges MPs to embrace responsibility in building Ghanas future Gertrude Ankah Politics Jan - 07 - 2025 , 03:15 1 minute read Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has underscored the critical role of political leadership in national development. He said the success or failure of a nations development hinges on the intelligence, creativity, skill, and commitment of its political leaders. Mr Bagbin therefore called for a leadership that has the capacity to garner support, instill confidence, and drive the nation forward. He made the call during the swearing-in ceremony of new Members of Parliament (MPs) on January 7. Advertisement Society develops or fails to develop depending on the extent to which its political leadership is intelligent, creative, skillful, committed, and has the capacity to enlist support, said Mr Bagbin, reminding the MPs of their significant role in shaping the country's future. The Speaker urged the newly sworn-in MPs to set aside political differences and focus on the collective goal of advancing Ghanas development. We have no alternative than to coalesce together to develop Ghana, he stated, urging unity in the face of challenges. Mr. Bagbin also acknowledged the hardships MPs had endured during their election campaigns, offering encouragement and reinforcing the importance of upholding the trust placed in them by their constituents. Im aware of what you went through before you got elected to this House, and I trust that you will not abuse the trust and confidence of the people, he stated. The Speaker's address set a tone of collaboration, responsibility, and hope, calling on lawmakers to honour their duty to Ghana and contribute to the countrys growth. Next article: Bagbin sets record for being part of all parliaments since 1993, equals Justice D.F. Annan's record as Speaker of Parliament for two terms Featured Meet Collins Dauda, the 'Mugabe' record holder of Ghana's Parliament, he has entered his 8th term as MP Enoch Darfah Frimpong Politics Jan - 07 - 2025 , 06:30 3 minutes read Alhaji Collins Dauda has become the longest-serving Member of Parliament (MP) in Ghana's history following his swearing-in on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as a member of the 9th Parliament. This is the eighth term he is serving as a Member of Parliament representing the people of Asutifi South in the Ahafo Region, formerly the Brong Ahafo Region. Before this, he had the same record as Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, for MP for Suame, for having served seven terms each. Apart from the 2001 to 2005 Parliament where Ghanaian educator, diplomat and politician Cecilia Djan Amoah on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) beat him at the polls to represent the Asutifi South Constituency in the Parliament, Collins Dauda has been part of all other Parliaments on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Advertisement He was a member of the first Parliament of the 4th Republic from 1993 to 1997. He got re-elected and served in the 1997 to 2001 Parliament. But was defeated in the 2000 parliamentary election that brought the NPP into power under the leadership of President John Agyekum Kufuor. Collins Dauda bounced back in the 2004 election and joined the 2005 to 2009 Parliament and has consistently been re-elected. Prior to becoming an MP, he was a member of the Consultative Assembly that worked on the 1992 Constitution, He was born on February 13, 1957, in Mehame in the Ahafo Region, the same year Ghana attained independence. Following closely to Collins Dauda's record is Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the former MP for Suame and Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the current Speaker both of whom hold the record for serving seven terms. Bagbin on his part holds the record for being part of all Parliaments under the 4th Republic for serving seven terms as MP and two terms as Speaker. Read also: Bagbin equals Justice D.F. Annan's record as Speaker of Parliament for two terms, sets record for being part of all parliaments since 1993 Who is Collins Dauda? The 67-year-old Collins Dauda is a teacher, politician, former Minister of Lands and Natural Resources; and Water Resources, Works and Housing. He was born on February 13, 1957 at Mehame in the Ahafo region. His parents were Issaka Naaba and Mariama Issah. He had his secondary school education at Mim Senior High School where he obtained both the GCE Ordinary Level and the GCE Advanced Level certificates between 1973 and 1981. He served as a teacher at the Kukuom Agricultural Senior High School from 1985. In 1986, he joined the teaching staff at the Ahafoman Senior High School where he continued to teach until 1992. In addition to serving as a member of the Consultative Assembly, he worked for the Asutifi District Assembly. Prior to being moved to the Ministry of Water Resources, Works, and Housing under John Dramani Mahama's administration as President, he served as the Minister of Lands and Mineral Resources in February 2009 under the late President J.E.A. Mills. In Parliament he has served on the Finance, Lands and Forestry committees and is also a member of the Committee of Selection. He is married with two wives and eleven children. Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh Next article: Meet Collins Dauda, the 'Mugabe' record holder of Ghana's Parliament, he has entered his 8th term as MP Previous article: Some residents of Abeka protest Patrick Boamah's victory in Okaikwei Central Parliamentary election Featured Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang sworn in as Ghanas first female Vice President Gertrude Ankah Politics Jan - 07 - 2025 , 11:13 2 minutes read Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang made history on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as she was sworn in as Ghanas first female Vice President. Taking the oath of office, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang vowed to uphold the Constitution and work diligently to advance the nations development agenda. Her historic achievement as first female Vice President follows the election of John Dramani Mahama as President in the 2024 presidential election on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). John Dramani Mahama sworn in as Ghanas President Advertisement Profile of Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang Born on November 22, 1951, in Komenda in the Central Region of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a distinguished academic and public servant whose career spans decades. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and French from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and pursued advanced studies at York University in Canada, where she obtained her Masters and Ph.D. in English Literature. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang began her academic journey as a lecturer at UCC, where she rose through the ranks to become the universitys first female Vice-Chancellor in 2008. Her leadership at UCC was marked by a commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and gender equality. In 2013, she was appointed Minister of Education by President Mahama. During her tenure, she spearheaded significant reforms, including initiatives to improve teacher training, expand access to education, and enhance infrastructure in schools nationwide. Her contributions to education and leadership have earned her numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates, national awards, and international recognition. A passionate advocate for womens empowerment, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang is a role model for many aspiring leaders in Ghana and beyond. She is married to Mr. Badu Opoku-Agyemang, and they have three children. Known for her humility and intellect, she combines her professional achievements with a deep commitment to societal transformation. As Ghanas first female Vice President, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang faces high expectations to champion policies that will advance education, gender equity, and economic development. Her journey is a beacon of hope for women and girls across Africa, symbolizing the possibilities of leadership in a changing world. Next article: Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang sworn in as Ghanas first female Vice President Featured Some residents of Abeka protest Patrick Boamah's victory in Okaikwei Central Parliamentary election GraphicOnline Politics Jan - 07 - 2025 , 16:51 2 minutes read Tensions are running high in Abeka, a town within the Okaikwei Central Constituency in Accra, as some residents took to the streets to protest the victory of Patrick Yaw Boamah, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate, in the 2024 Parliamentary Election. The protesters seen in a video on social media expressing their dissatisfaction with the results, burned car tyres along the Abeka stretch and called for justice for Baba Sadiq Abdulai, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate. The demonstrators alleged that Baba Sadiq, who was initially reported as the winner, was unfairly denied victory. The protests follow the conclusion of the collation process based on a court order, after which Patrick Boamah was declared winner. Advertisement The court had heard that an earlier purported declaration which announced Baba Sadiq as the winner excluded some polling station results, which made the process incomplete and irregular. The court agreed and ordered that those polling station wills should be added to complete the process. The exercise, conducted by the Electoral Commission (EC) at its Greater Accra Regional Office under heavy police and military security, declared Patrick Yaw Boamah the winner with 21,099 votes. His NDC opponent, Baba Sadiq, secured 19,368 votes. The completion of the collation exercise was necessitated by a directive from the Accra High Court. Residents demand transparency Speaking to the media, some protesters alleged irregularities in the process and accused the EC of bias. "We believe Baba Sadiq won the election. The re-collation has robbed us of our choice. We will not rest until justice is served," a protester stated. Despite the demonstrations, Mr. Boamah remains the duly declared winner and is set to retain his seat in Parliament for another term. The court process was initiated after disputes arose over results in several constituencies during the 2024 Parliamentary Election. The Accra High Court instructed the EC to ensure transparency in the process while directing the Inspector-General of Police to maintain security at collation centres. Brooklyn Granary & Mill 300 Huntington St., nr. Smith St., Carroll Gardens Patrick Shaw-Kitch, right, and his wife, Laura Huss, inside their Brooklyn bakery. Photo: Victor Llorente In 1688, Joseph Haviland was granted the right to build a two-story timber-frame tidewater mill at the end of Ocean Avenue in East Rockaway, Nassau County. The 336-year-old East Rockaway Grist Mill is now a museum and registered national historic site, and the closest thing New York City has had to a proper local flour mill, until now. Brooklyn Granary & Mill may sound ancient or at least like a storefront that would have done well during the 2010s artisanal-Brooklyn heyday but when it opens in February, it will be a state-of-the-art gristmill that feeds a modern bakery, steps away from the Gowanus Canal. Patrick Shaw-Kitch, the 41-year-old man behind the mill, sees it as a way to offer something new to the citys saturated bakery scene: If you go to the Union Square Greenmarket, he says, youll see five different types of radicchio and be able to distinguish between a Castelfranco and a Tardivo. My hope is that this will start happening with grain a recognition of character. A wholesale list for restaurants and bakers includes flours milled from Red Fife, Oberkulmer spelt, Hazlet rye and more. The bakerys own loaves, meanwhile, will be listed according to the grains used. So instead of, say, a country loaf, bread No. 1 will be Redeemer, Renan, and Glenn wheats, naturally leavened and baked into a long oval. Redeemer grown organically by Small Valley Milling in Halifax, Pennsylvania is one of Shaw-Kitchs favorites. Its a workhorse wheat that can be used in everything from bread to croissants to pizza, he says. Another prized grain, Glenn wheat, has a high protein content, produces high yields, and is disease resistant. Its a mainstay of spring wheat in the Northeast, Shaw-Kitch suggests. At the bakery, it will play an important role in enriched doughs and breads. There will also be baguettes, topped focaccias, and an ambitious viennoiserie program thats set to include croissants made with Einkorn (from Hudson Valley Hops & Grains in Columbia County), fortified with Glenn and Renan wheats, and layered with high-fat Cabot butter from Vermont. Japanese techniques will make their way into a rye porridge bread using amazake, a Japanese drink made of fermented rice, as its starter or sort, while 100 percent rye bread has some shio koji (a kind of fermented condiment) in it, as well, but all the grains are definitely Northeast in origin. Shaw-Kitch got his start in bread in Seattle at Columbia City Bakery before moving to Brooklyn to work at Bien Cuit. After a couple years, he took a job in Westchester baking at Blue Hill at Stone Barns. There, he was head baker for five years, fully consumed by sourdough starters and seed breeding. But the commute was too much, and he started to wonder if he could open something closer to home. What he discovered were the many reasons why nobody else has thought to open a grain mill in the area: Like distilling, milling is a highly regulated process. The danger, basically, is that flour is a small particulate, Shaw-Kitch explains, if evenly distributed in a closed space, it can be combustible if exposed to a heat source. (The Red Hook Grain Terminal isnt technically a mill, but the state-run grain elevator is still relegated to a waterfront space.) Weve had fire-safety assessments, taken mitigation, and have an explosion-proof room, Shaw-Kitch says. He explains that his gristmill will create no more dust than a bakery does, but Ruwac dust collectors industrial vacuums, or as he describes them, droids with hoses already patrol the milling room anyway. That Shaw-Kitch and his wife Laura Huss who has helped conceptualize and launch the business were able to make it happen at all required a willingness to navigate plenty of red tape, and a bit of luck. Monadnock Development and Construction, a prolific developer of market-rate and affordable housing, was looking to expand in the Gowanus, eventually finding a home at 300 Huntington, a 136,000-square-foot mixed-use space beneath the Smith9th Street subway stop. Brad Lander, the city comptroller who was a councilmember at the time, says that the city required one-third of the building be for light industry as part of an initiative to keep Gowanus creative. And it was the Southwest Brooklyn Industrial Development Corporation that convinced the Department of City Planning and Department of Buildings to get clearance for the granary to operate in a light industrial area at all. Flour mills have historically been relegated to heavy industrial districts because of their use of incendiary steel rollers. Brooklyn Granary & Mill is instead using two, 40-inch New American Stone Mills from Vermont, located on the spaces second floor. The two mills will operate alternately to keep the temperatures of the stones low. When flour starts to heat up in the mill, it loses its aromas, Shaw-Kitch says. We want those aromas to be volatilized in the ovens, not the mills themselves. Downstairs, theres a Spanish Salva double-stack steam-injected convection oven and a three-tier German Miwe deck oven, which collectively can bake over 50 loaves of bread at a time. Theyll be displayed, warm, on custom-built bread racks. A stained-glass window, meanwhile, was a gift from Shaw-Kitchs in-laws. It comes from an old German bakery in Pennsylvania and reads, simply, Bakery. EAT LIKE THE EXPERTS. Sign up for the Grub Street newsletter. 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. We took the OnePlus 13 on a photo trip in Sri Lanka, here's what we got Last month, OnePlus India invited us to Sri Lanka to attend a briefing for its upcoming OnePlus 13 series smartphones, which includes the flagship OnePlus 13 as well as the OnePlus 13R. While there, the company also gave us a trip around the country, where we participated in various activities, including water sports, whale watching, and visiting local temples. Unfortunately, the whales didn't quite show up perhaps they were camera shy but we still managed to get a ton of great shots over three days, which ultimately was the purpose of the trip. All images and videos seen below were shot on the OnePlus 13 using the latest firmware available at the time (15.0.0.307). All files are straight from the camera with no filters or edits. With that out of the way, let's look at the samples. Starting with the main camera on the OnePlus 13, we have a 50MP f1.6 Sony LYT-808 unit outputting punchy images with deep colors and a stark contrast. Main camera samples The images also have an excellent level of detail that holds up to close examination. Main camera samples Next is the 50MP f2.0 ultra-wide camera with the Samsung ISOCELL JN5 sensor providing the all-important wide-angle perspective. The colors and dynamic range are a good match for the main camera with a decent level of detail in well-lit environments. Ultra-wide samples Finally, it's the turn of the 50MP f2.65 3x telephoto with a Triprism lens and Sony LYT-600 sensor. This was our favorite camera to shoot with thanks to its lovely perspective and excellent image quality. Telephoto samples Not all images are in the default 3x mode. Mixed in are images shot in the 6x mode, which still uses the same camera but with an even tighter crop that is great for isolating subjects. Telephoto samples We also shot a few images in the XPAN mode, which is exclusive to Hasselblad-branded devices, and offers a unique perspective with its extremely wide 65:27 aspect ratio. XPAN mode Finally, we have the video samples, shot in 4K in 60fps and 30fps. The videos were shot in SDR as there's no way of demonstrating Dolby Vision in a YouTube video at the moment. We have our usual test samples in our OnePlus 13 review so be sure to check those out. OnePlus 13 arrives on the global stage 2 months after being unveiled in China. The device comes with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a very solid spec sheet overall. The base variant with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB will retail for $899 (up from $799 on the OnePlus 12) and it comes only in Black. If you want the White or Blue colors you must shed $999 for the 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage version. In Europe, the 12/256GB model is priced at 999, while the 16/512GB model is 1,049. For India, the prices are 69,999 (12/256GB) and 76,999 (16/512GB), the 24GB/1TB model isn't available just yet. The smartphone brand brought improvements all across the board. The panel, a product of BOE, keeps the 6.82" diagonal and 1440p resolution, but is now brighter. There are also new telephoto and ultrawide cameras on the back. The most impressive change in the phone is its thickness OnePlus 13 is under 9 mm thin but now brings a 6,000 mAh battery. Combined with the improved power efficiency of the Snapdragon chipset and the new display, we expect the phone to surpass any other OnePlus flagship in terms of battery life. Another major improvement is the IP68/IP69 certification. It is not only protected against dust and water ingress, but is also certified against high-pressure water beams like steam cleaning, for example. OnePlus 13 color options OnePlus definitely improved its offer in terms of flagship specifications, but we are yet to see how the new prices will sit with customers. Samsung is coming off a strong year and will begin the new one with the launch of the new generation of Galaxy S phones the S-series is a pillar for the company and its members rank among the best-selling Galaxy phones. The Galaxy S24 series outsold the S23 series by 28% in early 2024. The vanilla model accounted for 27% of S24 units sold, moving ahead of the S24+. The S24 outsold its predecessor, the Galaxy S23, by around 8%. Will the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 keep that momentum and become even more popular? There are some key improvements that will give it a boost. However, lack of upgrades in some areas will hamper its potential. Here is a look at everything we (think we) know about the Galaxy S25. Coming this January Update: Confirmed! The next-generation Galaxy S flagships will be unveiled on January 22. There is no official save the date from Samsung yet, but reports place the Galaxy S25 series announcement on January 22 or 23 (a confusion likely caused by time zone differences). This will lead into a short pre-order period ending on February 6/7 when open sales will begin (two weeks is the usual pre-order window). Snapdragon returns There have been multiple leaks suggesting the S25 series will use the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset globally. There are some reports that say otherwise, but at this point there is enough evidence to believe that Samsung is going all-in on Snapdragon for the whole S25 series, not just the Ultra. The small Galaxy S25 is getting another upgrade 12GB of RAM, finally! It was the last of Samsungs flagships stuck on 8GB, even the Z Flip6 had 12GB. Allegedly, the base storage will go up to 256GB, though this isnt 100% certain as there are plenty of contradictory reports. This is less of a concern, since Samsungs traditional pre-order offers include a free storage upgrade. Also since Galaxy S25s chief rivals Pixel 9 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro also start at 128GB. Samsung Galaxy S25 Geekbench result Looks frozen in time CAD renders of the Galaxy S25 show the familiar design that Samsung has used for the last few years. The design of the camera lenses might be a bit different, but youll have to point out whats new to your friends if you dont want them thinking that you have a Galaxy S24. Samsung Galaxy S25 (speculative renders) Samsung has managed to shave off fractions of a millimeter here and there: the Galaxy S25 will measure 146.9 x 70.4 x 7.2mm, compared to 147 x 70.6 x 7.6mm for the S24. This is in part thanks to slimmer bezels, but the difference might be too small to reliably detect with the naked eye. According to leaks, the Samsung Galaxy S25 (and S25+) will be available in these colors: Blue, Black, Coral Red, Icy Blue, Mint, Navy, Pink Gold and Silver Shadow. Other leaks have only shared a smaller color palette: Silver, Shadow, Navy, Mint, Iceblue. Keep in mind that there will be several Samsung.com exclusive colors, which could account for the difference. SIM trays for the Galaxy S25 show the different case colors The case material should be some version of Armor Aluminum. Same battery, magnets optional The Samsung Galaxy S25 is expected to have a 4,000mAh battery with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging the same as the S24. This is not to say there wont be any upgrades, but they will be small. The S25 series will support Qi2 charging, though without directly implementing the Magnetic Power Profile. Instead, Samsung will release Magnet Cases that will allow the phone to snap to chargers and (presumably) for magnetic accessories to snap to the phone. Two third-party magnetic cases for the Galaxy S24 Weve seen other Android makers elect to go this route too, instead of embedding the magnets into the phone. People who use their phone caseless will miss out. Plus, third-party case makers already sell magnet cases for older S-series phones. This leaves the Extended Power Profile as the only upgrade in the switch to Qi2, but in practice users wont see any difference. No changes to the screen and cameras This section will be short the Samsung Galaxy S25 is expected to have the same display as the S24 (6.2 FHD+ LTPO 120Hz), save for the thinner bezels we mentioned above and perhaps a new Gorilla Glass version. The camera department will keep the 50MP main, 10MP 3x telephoto and 12MP ultra-wide for another year. This has been effectively unchanged since the S22. The selfie camera should be the same too at 12MP. One UI is getting a new look and more AI Samsung is one of the strongest proponents of AI on mobile and owners of recent S-phones have been using Galaxy AI for free. The free part might be coming to an end this year, at least for older models. However, Galaxy S25 buyers may get a free subscription to Gemini Advanced. Googles top tier plan normally costs $20 a month, which includes access to the most advanced Gemini models and 2TB of Google Drive. This will be a short-lived promo, however. S25 buyers will only get three months for free, while S25+ and S25 Ultra buyers will get six and twelve months, respectively. The Galaxy S25 series will also be the first with stable One UI 7, which will incorporate a number of AI features. More importantly, it is also a major overhaul of Samsungs UI design. Same price We havent heard from all markets, but leaked pricing info shows that the Samsung Galaxy S25 will cost the same as the S24 did last year. The leak specifically said that the price in Sweden will be the same as last year, so here is how much the S24 series cost at launch (we've also included the euro pricing, which should also remain the same). Note that this is for the 128GB model were still not sure whether the 256GB base rumors will prove true. Storage Swedish price German price Samsung Galaxy S24 128GB SEK 11,490 EUR 899 Samsung Galaxy S24+ 256GB SEK 14,490 EUR 1,149 Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB SEK 17,990 EUR 1,449 As usual, this is a summary of leaks and rumors and may contain errors the only way we will find out is live during the Galaxy Unpacked event later this month. Samsung is hosting its next Unpacked event on January 22. The teaser showcases four devices next to each other, practically confirming we will see four Galaxy S25 smartphones in 15 days. The phones in question should be Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra and a brand new Galaxy S25 Slim. The event will start at 6 PM UTC, which is 1 PM ET, 7 PM CET, 11:30 PM IST. The Galaxy S25 and S25+ will be pretty similar, with the Plus only having a bigger screen and battery, while the Ultra will ditch the pointy corners and come with a more oval shape while retaining the S Pen and the Ultra specifications. The Slim is reportedly coming with a 6.66" screen, a rear setup consisting of 200 MP main, 50 MP ultrawide and 50 MP telephoto cameras. It will have a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and a 5,000 mAh battery. These features sound impressive for a flagship smartphone, but as the name suggests, it will be a thinner, lighter handset, likely missing on some extra features like wireless charging and periscope lens for the telephoto cam. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra's leaked renders (Source: OnLeaks and Android Headlines) The event will be live-streamed across all of Samsung's social media channels. Here is what to expect from the Galaxy S25 (and the S25+ to an extent), as well as from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Source Samsung is finally ready to launch the Galaxy Book5 series. Starting in February, the Galaxy Book5 Pro and Galaxy Book5 360 will be available in select markets, including Canada, France, Germany, the UK, and the US. Sadly, there are no prices at this time. Samsung has already announced the Galaxy Book5 series - the 360 in September, and the Galaxy Book5 Pro in December. The Galaxy Book5 Pro comes in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, with the bigger claiming up to 25 hours of battery life. It also will charge up to 35% in 30 minutes thanks to a 65W charger. Upfront is a Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz display. The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 offers a single 15-inch screen option - a pared-down FHD AMOLED. Both models come with Intel's Core Ultra (Series 2) processors with neural processing units (NPUs) that bring 47 Tera Operations per Second (TOPs) with integrated Galaxy AI. Both come with 16GB or 32GB of RAM and 256GB, 512GB and 1TB of storage. Both also feature quad speakers with Dolby Atmos support. Galaxy AI brings AI Select - similar to Circle to Search on Galaxy phones, it allows you to search for anything on the laptop's display. There's also a Samsung Knox-enabled security chip built-in, safeguarding your data and ensuring privacy. Samsung's Galaxy Book5 Pro and Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 are Intel-only for now - no Snapdragon X Elite models have been announced. U.S. Virgin Islands Del. Stacey Plaskett questions why delegates from the territories cant vote for speaker of the House of Representatives on Jan. 3, 2025. Haiti - Humanitarian : UNICEF 2024 report in figures In 2024, Haiti faced many challenges, including armed violence, mass population displacement and a fragile health system. Despite this difficult context, UNICEF redoubled its efforts to ensure the well-being and rights of children and vulnerable communities. Violence/protection : A handover protocol for children associated with armed groups was signed and a transit centre for their reintegration established ; - Over 360,000 people were informed on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse across the country and 32 mobile safe spaces were established to prevent and respond to GBV in the Ouest department ; - 1,000 children deported from the Dominican Republic were reunited with their families ; - 85,000 children impacted by armed violence received mental health and psychosocial support. Health : - 384 health professionals were deployed across 105 institutions, providing care to almost 45,000 beneficiaries ; - Almost 76,000 people accessed health care services through mobile clinics in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince ; - 5 health institutions and 2 neonatology units were rehabilitated. Water, sanitation and hygiene : At least 57,000 people gained access to sustainable drinking water in priority communities across the Artibonite, Centre and South departments ; - Over 260,000 people in displacement sites received water. - Almost 95,000 individuals benefited from proper sanitation, two thirds of whom were in displacement sites ; - 139 inclusive latrines were constructed in 17 communities, ensuring access for people with disabilities. Nutrition : - A 20242029 multisectoral nutrition plan and a new acute malnutrition management protocol were adopted ; - The first Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Acute Malnutrition Analysis was conducted ; - Around 83,000 children were treated for acute malnutrition ; - Almost 300,000 children received vitamin A supplements Education : Preschools were positioned as a national priority and focus of the Minister of Education through the first ever National Conference on Preschool Education ; - 121,096 children aged between 3 and 17 have benefited from access to formal and non-formal education, including those in IDP sites in Port-au-Prince, Leogane, and the Grand Sud. Community engagement : - 7.5 million people were reached with messages on access to basic social services ; - 450,000 people benefited from information about vaccination, nutrition, breastfeeding, young child feeding, and prenatal consultations shared by U-Reporters ; - 6,000 children were vaccinated thanks to community awareness led by U-Reporters. Cash assistance : - US$ 4.9 million were distributed to almost 30,000 families, reaching almost 70,000 people, including almost 17,000 children and 1,500 people with disabilities. - 10,000 children received cash assistance in support of their education. HL/ Snapshot UNICEF Haiti - FLASH : Fear spreads in the Haitian community as Trump approaches power Two weeks before Donald Trump's inauguration, Haitian migrants nationwide under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) fear that one of Donald Trump's first actions in office will be to revoke TPS, immigration advocates say. In anticipation, they are giving instructions to Haitian migrants on what to do if Trump ends their immigration protections. Nearly 500,000 Haitians are living in the United States under Temporary Protected Status, according to NBC, a status that was initially granted in 2010 following the devastating earthquake that killed nearly 300,000 people. The legal status has been extended several times amid political and security unrest. In October 2024, during his election campaign in Springfield https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-43185-haiti-news-zapping.html in Ohio, a month before the election, when asked whether he would revoke the temporary protected status of migrants in an interview with NewsNation, he said, "Absolutely. Id revoke it, and Id bring them back [the haitians] to their country." sked in the interview what would happen if Haiti refused to take them in, he replied, "Well, theyre going to receive them, theyll receive them. If I bring them back, theyre going to receive them," Trump said without elaborating. Should be noted that TPS concerns nearly 3 million people and concerns about ten beneficiary countries including Haiti. For its part, the city of Springfield indicates on its website that approximately 12,000 to 15,000 immigrants live in Clark County, which has a population of approximately 136,000 inhabitants, and that Haitian immigrants are there legally. "Haitian workers play a significant role in Springfields economy, filling much-needed jobs," specifies the city. On June 28, 2024, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced the extension and redesignation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status for 18 months, from August 4, 2024 to February 3, 2026, due to the extraordinary and temporary conditions in Haiti https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42655-haiti-flash-good-news-extension-and-redesignation-of-haiti-for-tps-confirmed.html Let's recall that under the Trump administration, the Department of Homeland Security had already actively sought to end TPS for several groups without success, a policy that Trump wants to resume. However, experts have said that deportations on the scale promised by Trump would face enormous legal challenges in addition to the logistical challenges and considerable costs of such an operation. SL/ S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... 2025 : A year of war against gangs The year 2025 will be a year of war against armed gangs, declared Lesly Voltaire, which calls on all the country's vital forces to get involved in the fight against this scourge that threatens the nation. The president of the CPT drew up a catastrophic assessment of the year 2024, reporting more than 5,000 people killed across the country. 7 trucks from the Brasserie Sejourne hijacked 7 trucks belonging to the Brasserie Sejourne were hijacked on January 4 in the town of Cite Soleil. The company, which has suffered considerable losses, is threatening to close the business due to insecurity if nothing is done by the authorities concerned to restore order. CAN : 6,417 medical emergencies handled The National Ambulance Center (CAN) presents the distribution, by department, of medical emergencies handled throughout the territory during the period from January to November 2024. West : 3,715; Artibonite : 897; Southeast : 503; Northwest : 313; North : 253; Northeast : 218; South : 194; Nippes : 190; Grand-Anse : 114; Centre : 20. First police officer killed in 2025 A police officer was killed Sunday evening in Delmas 39, Port-au-Prince, Haiti, by unidentified armed bandits. The victim was identified as Jean Woody Vilmont, an agent of the 28th class, assigned to the Financial Affairs Directorate (BAF) of the Judicial Police (DCPJ). He is the first police officer killed in 2025. UEH : Sharp increase in enrollment Strong increase in enrollment (+92.5%) at the State University of Haiti (UEH), which recorded at the beginning of December 2024 : 26,691 enrollments for the 2024-2025 academic year, compared to 13,860 for the 2023-2024 academic year. Fire at the La Coupe market On Sunday, a fire broke out in a market in the commune of Petion-ville (La Coupe market), a large part of the market, where mainly esoteric products are sold, was consumed by the flames. According to traders, a candle that was left burning in a small house in the market is believed to be the cause of the fire. HL/ HaitiLibre Behind the glittering facade of software provider Delasport in the Office X business park in Sofia, Bulgaria, are dozens or even hundreds of gambling websites. They are also targeting countries in the EU where gambling is actually strictly regulated and are attracting consumers there. This has been reported by several European media outlets that have analyzed the "Casino Papers" in a joint investigation, which include tens of thousands of leaked documents from the industry. The operators of online portals with a high addictive factor are therefore hardly accessible to regulators on the old continent: Letterbox companies in Malta and Curacao reportedly play a decisive role in concealing the owners. Anzeige Regulatory authorities and consumers from countries such as Germany, Italy and the Netherlands regularly complain about the network of relevant websites and feel cheated and exploited on a large scale. According to analyzes by Follow the Money, Sveriges Radio, Der Standard, ORF and The Shift, even users who have been placed on national self-exclusion lists due to a declared gambling addiction are allowed to continue gambling on sites such as Casinowinbig, 18Bet, 1Bet and Palmslots. They put their losses at tens and hundreds of thousands of euros. The structures behind the illegal gambling offers are not transparent. Public sources such as Curacao's commercial register show on paper which service providers operate the letterbox companies on the island. However, they do not reveal the clients. The casino leaks shed more light on the darkness. The Israeli businessman Avi Shemesh, who owns Delasport, also owns the Maltese letterbox company Shark77 Limited. This in turn operates three online casinos that are on the radar of the gambling authorities in European countries. In 2023, for example, the Dutch regulator imposed a fine of around 900,000 euros on the company for operating 18Bet.com in the Netherlands without a license. Lawsuits against the addiction business model The Curacao letterbox companies Bellona and NewEra are reportedly owned by Ilan Shemesh, who is also from Israel. The two companies operate dozens of other gambling sites that have European inspectors on their tail. The reporters were unable to clarify whether the two men with the same surname are related. However, the leaked papers showed that Delasport's management signed contracts relating to the online casinos and were informed about or even directly involved in disputes with supervisory authorities and legal proceedings brought by players against the sites. Spanish and Dutch regulators have already imposed fairly high fines on the operators. However, they have not received any money. Instead, at least the Spanish market is currently no longer being served by the operators. According to the documents, the hard-to-stop operators have so far achieved the highest turnover in Germany, Italy, Sweden, Austria and Denmark. According to the documents, Germany was by far the largest market. In 2022, the German gambling authority complained in a letter about twelve Bellona locations on Curacao and threatened to impose fines and prison sentences if the locations remained accessible from Germany. This has also achieved little so far. All Delasport has said is that its own business activities are conducted "in strict compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and license conditions in the countries in which we are licensed". At the same time, lawsuits are being filed by players: "We are currently preparing many cases against Bellona in Curacao," said German specialist lawyer Marc Ellerbrock. "The business model is not gambling, but addiction." (vbr) The trade war over strategic raw materials between China and the USA is heating up again. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has announced export restrictions on certain technologies used for the production of battery components and for processing critical minerals such as lithium and gallium. Processes for extracting the two raw materials, which play an important role in semiconductor production, are also to be affected. According to the catalog, the planned technologies include those for the production of batteries with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and phosphate-based cathode materials. The latter play a decisive role in the performance of lithium-ion batteries, which are frequently used in electric vehicles. Anzeige LFP is another cathode material used in the production of lithium iron phosphate batteries. These are known for cost efficiency, lower safety risks, longer life and robust thermal and chemical stability. It should be noted that overcharging often directly damages the structure of the battery and therefore requires monitoring electronics. LFP is often used in energy storage devices and batteries for electric cars, balcony power plants and mobile homes. The boom in the latter has driven down the prices of such batteries. Batteries with LFP cathodes have so far been produced almost exclusively in China. In the past two years, several major international car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Stellantis, General Motors, Hyundai and Kia have started to use LFP batteries in some of their electric car models. This is usually done in partnership with Chinese e-mobility giants such as CATL and BYD, according to the South China Morning Post. Great risk of escalation There is one clause in particular: it would also prohibit companies in third countries from reselling the metals to US companies after purchasing them from China. Beijing is threatening legal consequences in the event of non-compliance. The Chinese government is thus forcing buyers worldwide to choose between the US market and the Middle Kingdom as a supplier. Until now, Beijing has been reluctant to impose such bans on third countries. The measure could put even more pressure on global supply chains. "This move marks a significant escalation of the ongoing technology war between the US and China," said Jens Eskelund, President of the European Chamber of Commerce in China, according to the newsletter service Table Media. European companies are increasingly concerned about being caught in the crossfire. According to forecasts by market research firm Mineral Intelligence, China will have the highest production capacity for lithium-ion batteries in 2030, which would then account for 67 percent of global manufacturing capacity. The augurs see the USA in second place, albeit with only 14 percent of the global share or a fifth of China's share. Anzeige Consultation runs until the beginning of February The Ministry of Trade has not yet announced when the stricter conditions will come into force. Interested parties have until February 1 to comment on the plan as part of a public consultation. It was only at the beginning of December that China banned the export of important raw materials and goods with civil and military purposes ("dual use") to the USA. Gallium, germanium and the semi-metal antimony are affected by this measure. These raw materials are essential for the defense industry and chip manufacturers. Global controls on graphite exports are also to be tightened once again. Reaction to US sanctions The two latest steps are in response to further chip sanctions imposed by the USA. The new measures prohibit the export of key technologies such as high-performance memories and semiconductor tools manufactured by US companies or using US technologies. The US government has also blacklisted 140 other Chinese companies, making access to US technologies in this area virtually impossible. A Chinese counterattack has now followed: Beijing banned the export of dual-use products to 28 US defense companies on Thursday. These include General Dynamics, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Missiles & Defense. Beijing made the announcements shortly before Donald Trump's second inauguration on January 20. The US President-elect wants to impose high tariffs and various trade restrictions on countries such as China and blocs such as the EU. According to Siyamend Ingo Al Barazi from the German Raw Materials Agency (Dera), the US recognized certain dependencies on China early on and introduced measures to diversify. The germanium processor Umicore is an example of this. However, China is still by far the most important producer of gallium and antimony. The Middle Kingdom has a great interest in maintaining the dependence of other countries to control sales. The problem with production capacities in Europe is low price phases in which the market is flooded. (nie) The US Department of Defense has classified the Chinese tech group Tencent, which is primarily active in social media and computer games, as a Chinese military company operating in the US. As a result, the WeChat operator's share price slipped in US trading on Monday. This was reported by the US news agency Bloomberg. Anzeige Tencent is one of several Chinese companies designated in a US Federal Register entry as "Chinese military companies" under the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA 2021). The U.S. federal law, which establishes the budget, spending, and policies of the U.S. Department of Defense for fiscal year 2021, requires the U.S. Secretary of Defense to prepare and publish a list of "Chinese military contractors" annually through December 31, 2030. Publication of this document (PDF) in the Federal Register is scheduled for Tuesday, January 7, 2025. The Chinese battery manufacturer CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd.), China Telecom and the tech group Huawei are also on the list. Also included: Chinese aerospace companies, shipbuilders, manufacturers of video surveillance devices and mobile phone operators. The Pentagon's blacklist does not result in any specific sanctions, but is intended to prevent US companies from trading with the companies listed. Inclusion on the list "clearly a mistake" According to the Bloomberg report, Tencent described its presence on the list as a "clear mistake" in a statement. "We are not a military company or supplier," said a company spokesperson. "Unlike sanctions or export controls, this list has no impact on our business. However, we will work with the US Department of Defense to clear up any misunderstandings." The battery company CATL also spoke of a "mistake". According to the company, it is not involved in military activities. The list of Chinese companies that work closely with the government in Beijing, its military or the domestic defense industry and are therefore under observation goes back to an order signed by then US President Donald Trump in 2020. According to this order, US investments in these Chinese companies are excluded. The order was and is part of the escalating trade war between the United States and China. As a result, the US chip manufacturer Intel was no longer allowed to supply processors to the listed Chinese server manufacturer Inspur. Inspur is still on the blacklist. The tech company Huawei, on the other hand, has been on the US government's blacklist since May 2019. US President Joe Biden extended the decree issued by his predecessor Trump in 2021. However, some Chinese companies have been successful in being removed from the US blacklist, writes Bloomberg. In 2021, Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi reached an agreement with the US government and its classification as a Chinese military company was lifted. Last year, the Chinese chip manufacturer AMEC (Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment) was removed from the list. In the entry in the Federal Register, the US Department of Defense points out that companies on the blacklist "may request a review of this decision". According to the Pentagon, six Chinese companies have been removed from the list last published on January 31, 2024. Anzeige (akn) At the start of CES 2025 (January 7 to 10) next week, the tech industry and not just will meet in Las Vegas. As usual, the trade fair is the first highlight of the year. In addition to numerous innovations in the field of consumer electronics, the focus will be on new hardware for artificial intelligence (AI) and the automotive industry, which has long been a fixture at CES. Other topics include digital health and energy supply technologies. Anzeige The keynote speech by Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang on the eve of the official opening of CES on Tuesday morning (Las Vegas local time) is eagerly awaited. As last year, AI is one of the central themes of the trade fair. This will also be the focus for Nvidia, but new gaming graphics cards from the GeForce series can also be expected. Other chip manufacturers such as AMD, Intel and Qualcomm will also be presenting new products at CES. Broad spectrum The fact that CES now covers a very diverse range of technology can also be seen from the keynote speakers. In addition to Jensen Huang, Delta CEO Ed Bastian (whose airline suffered a massive IT outage in 2024), Panasonic CEO Yuki Kusum, Volvo CEO Martin Lundstedt and X CEO Linda Yaccarino are expected to make appearances. The current Federal Minister for Digital Affairs, Volker Wissing (now independent), will also be making his rounds of the trade fair again. A number of celebrities have also announced their attendance and those who want to be. CES was originally the trade fair for consumer electronics: television and audio. While TV manufacturers are still showing their new products for the year here, the audio industry is on the retreat. There will also be news on AV standards: The HDMI Forum has already announced that it will be bringing the new HDMI 2.2 standard to CES. And Google subsidiary YouTube is trying to establish the Eclipsa Audio surround sound format together with Samsung. Notebook manufacturers such as Asus and Lenovo are bringing their new device portfolios to Las Vegas, and there is speculation on social media that the prototype of a notebook with a rollable display shown by Lenovo at MWC 2023 could go into series production. New monitors are also expected. In addition to new GPUs, gamers can also look forward to 4KOLEDs with high frame rates. There are also growing indications that Lenovo and Valve will present a handheld console with SteamOS. Atari and My Arcade will also present a new handheld, but one for retro games from the classic Atari consoles and arcade titles. The lamp is a loudspeaker is a projector. (Image: LG) Last year, the AI gadget "Rabbit r1 " received a lot of attention at CES without being exhibited at the trade fair itself. The hype quickly gave way to disillusionment for other AI toys presented over the course of the year. CES 2025 will provide clues as to whether the second generation of AI gadgets has more to offer. In any case, it will be hard to escape the topic of AI at the trade fair whether it is in consumer electronics, household appliances or the smart home. Anzeige In addition to the usual appliance categories, the CES always comes up with unusual gadgets and technical gimmicks that don't always succeed on the market. In the past, brewing machines, Carrera tracks and cute little AI robots have proved to be big hits with the public. LG is coming up with one such gimmick this year: The South Korean manufacturer is showcasing a lamp that is a Bluetooth speaker and a 4K projector. Empfohlener redaktioneller Inhalt Mit Ihrer Zustimmung wird hier ein externes YouTube-Video (Google Ireland Limited) geladen. YouTube-Video immer laden YouTube-Video jetzt laden Cars and AI Last but not least, car manufacturers are also focusing on AI, which has long since become a permanent fixture at the trade fair. BMW is working on new display technology and software for the interior. Honda is expected to provide updates on the "Honda 0" platform, which was presented for the first time at CES 2024, as well as the cooperation with Sony. And suppliers such as Bosch and Continental are keen to showcase their latest developments at CES, which will then go into series production a few years later. Read also CES 2025 outlook: what car manufacturers will be showing at the trade fair heise Autos Although the organizer, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), does not want to make any forecasts, it is expected that around 140,000 visitors will attend. In 2024, CES had just under 139,000 visitors and is thus slowly approaching the level of the years before the coronavirus pandemic, when up to 185,000 visitors came to Las Vegas. However, CES veterans also appreciate it when it is not quite so crowded. The trade fair will officially open on Tuesday morning (local time) with the keynote speech by Panasonic CEO Yuki Kusum. There will be numerous events for trade visitors and the media beforehand. Heise Medien is the official media partner of CES 2025. c't, heise online and c't 3003 will be on site and will be reporting directly from Las Vegas from Sunday. (vbr) Four in ten of the survey respondents stated that they consider it important to dispatch western land forces to help the country to defend itself against the war of aggression prosecuted by Russia a proportion that represents an increase of eight percentage points from the previous edition of the survey conducted in June 2024. A GROWING NUMBER of Finns would like to dispatch western land forces to Ukraine, reveals a survey conducted for Helsingin Sanomat by Verian. The presence of western land troops was regarded as important particularly by senior managerial employees (59%), men (53%) and 3139-year-olds (51%). Supporters of the National Coalition, Finns Party and Green League were predominantly supportive of the idea of western land forces in Ukraine. The idea was backed also by 46 per cent of supporters of the Left Alliance, 40 per cent of supporters of the Centre and 34 per cent of supporters of the Social Democrats. The often floated idea is most commonly dismissed on grounds of the risk of escalation. The share of survey respondents who rejected the idea on such grounds, though, has decreased by 11 points to 39 per cent, according to the survey commissioned by Helsingin Sanomat. Finns, the survey also shows, are increasingly eager to welcome Ukraine into the European Union. The share of respondents who said they hope the country will soon join the 27-country bloc has risen by six points to 58 per cent in the past six months. Support for Ukraines membership aspirations has increased regardless of its financial implications for the EU and Finland, with 40 per cent of respondents an up-tick of three points from last summer considering an imminent accession important even if it shook up the common agricultural policy and led to an increase in the net membership fees of Finland. The share of respondents who did not consider the accession important contrastively fell by two points to 31 per cent. Half of respondents viewed that the right approach to the war instigated by Russia is to support Ukraine until the withdrawal of Russia, even if it means the war will last longer. Fewer than four in ten, or 38 per cent, of respondents favoured the other option of encouraging the sides to end the war through negotiation even if it left Russia in control of parts of Ukraine. The question was posed to the respondents for the first time. YouGov in December published the results of a survey that gauged support for the two options in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the UK. Half of Swedes, it found, would prefer to support Ukraine until the withdrawal of Russia a view that was shared by fewer than half of respondents in each of the six other countries, including 40 per cent in Denmark and only 15 per cent in Italy. A negotiated end to the conflict, even if parts of Ukraine were left to Russia, was the preference of 55 per cent in Italy, 46 per cent in Spain, 45 per cent in Germany and 43 per cent in France. In Sweden, the share came in at 24 per cent lower than in Finland, according to the survey by Helsingin Sanomat. Helsingin Sanomats survey found no significant change in public views about financial and military support for Ukraine. The share of respondents who considered the current level of support as sufficient fell by 1.4 points to 58.6 per cent in the past roughly six months, while almost a quarter voiced their support for increasing and one-tenth for decreasing the support. The respondents were also asked to reveal whether they are more or less concerned about the actions of Russia toward Finland than in February 2022, the month when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Concerns about Russias actions have risen by 15 points to 58 per cent since last June, according to the survey by Helsingin Sanomat. Sakari Nurmela, the research director at Verian, stated to the newspaper that it is possible to say that up to roughly 2.5 million Finns are more concerned about Russias actions today than in February 2022. The concerns have increased by 19 points to 55 per cent among men and by 10 points to 60 per cent among women. The survey was conducted after Finnish authorities intercepted Eagle S, an oil tanker that is part of the so-called shadow fleet of Russia, on the Baltic Sea on suspicion of damaging Estlink 2, a mostly submarine transmission link between Finland and Estonia. Verian collected 1,064 responses for the survey from an online panel between 30 December and 3 January. The results have a margin of error of roughly three points. Aleksi Teivainen HT Finnish police suspect that the anchor was deliberately dragged along the seabed, cutting the Estlink 2 power cable between Finland and Estonia and damaging four data cables on Christmas Day. The Swedish Navy has recovered the anchor of the Eagle S oil tanker, suspected of damaging critical undersea cables in the Gulf of Finland. The operation was conducted with the multi-role vessel HMS Belos, designed for submarine rescue, and the anchor is now in the custody of Finnish authorities. The Central Criminal Police (KRP) has launched an investigation into the anchor and the alleged sabotage. According to Yle, the anchor was retrieved from depths of up to 80 metres during a joint Finnish-Swedish operation. The anchor's exact recovery location and condition have not been disclosed. HMS Belos has since returned to Sweden. Risto Lohi, lead investigator from the KRP, confirmed that the investigation would proceed as planned, stating that the evidence collected would guide further steps. Eight crew members of the Eagle S, sailing under the Cook Islands flag, remain under travel bans as part of the inquiry. Reports have surfaced linking the Eagle S to another suspicious incident off the Dutch coast in November 2023. Dutch media revealed that the tanker loitered for hours near the Atlantic Crossing 1 telecommunications cable in the North Sea, behaviour described as "undeniably suspicious" by Rob de Wijk, a professor at Leiden University. The vessels previous inspection in Belgium in 2023 uncovered numerous safety deficiencies, including poor maintenance and malfunctioning equipment. The Eagle S has been implicated in broader geopolitical tensions. Russian media and political commentators have indirectly claimed responsibility for cable damage in the Baltic Sea, framing it as a response to NATO activity in the region. A discussion on Russia's NTV channel suggested the vessel belongs to Russia's "shadow fleet" and alleged that the anchor damage was intentional. Russian officials have not publicly confirmed ownership of the tanker. Finnish authorities have worked with counterparts in Sweden and the Cook Islands throughout the investigation. The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) has also completed a thorough inspection of the Eagle S, assessing its technical condition, crew welfare, and compliance with environmental and maritime regulations. The case has raised concerns about undersea infrastructure security. NATO has pledged to increase its presence in the Baltic Sea to deter future sabotage. Experts warn that attacks on critical infrastructure, such as data and power cables, could have significant geopolitical consequences. HT A veterinarian assessed the dogs, determining that nearly halfaround 50 to 60were in such poor health that they had to be euthanised. Finnish police made a disturbing discovery on New Years Eve when they stopped a van in Nurmes, North Karelia, finding over 100 dogs in poor condition crammed inside. Many of the animals were puppies. The remaining animals are now under the care of animal welfare organisations. Police have detained three German women suspected of aggravated animal welfare violations. The suspects are currently in pre-trial detention as authorities investigate the origin of the dogs and their intended destination. This is a highly unusual case, said Detective Chief Inspector Tomi Lautanen of the Eastern Finland Police Department. Authorities are also examining potential links to international networks and have stated that their investigation is in its early stages. The police have pledged to release more information as the inquiry progresses. HT President Ilkka Niemela emphasised the critical role of donations in enabling the university to meet growing demands in education and research. Aalto University has unveiled a 30 million fundraising campaign as part of its 15th-anniversary celebrations. The campaign, titled A! Sign of Change, aims to secure 1,500 donors over the next two years to support high-quality education, cutting-edge research, and innovation that promotes Finlands success and sustainability. Our fashion students have conquered the world, and we conduct top-notch research in dozens of fields, from quantum technology to artificial intelligence and biomaterials. Donations will allow us to shape a more sustainable future and enhance Finland's overall success, Niemela said. Finland has fallen behind peer nations in the proportion of young graduates from higher education, which could hinder the countrys long-term innovation potential. The campaign aims to address this issue by fostering high-quality research, supporting entrepreneurial ventures, and attracting international talent. Sari Baldauf, Chair of the Fundraising Campaign Committee, highlighted the significance of Aaltos work for Finlands economic competitiveness. Innovations, sustainable development solutions, and creative collaboration across sectors are vital for growth, Baldauf stated. Government funding for Aalto University has decreased by one-third in real terms since 2010 and now constitutes only 54% of its total budget. Other funding sources include the European Union, the Academy of Finland, and Business Finland. The universitys endowment funds and donations currently account for 10% of its budget. The campaign seeks donations for long-term endowment funds, immediate support for spearhead research projects, financial aid for students, and the expansion of entrepreneurial and innovation activities. Public campaign kickoff To launch the campaign, Aalto has collaborated with several iconic venues in Helsinki and Espoo, such as the Central Railway Station and the Amos Rex museum, to temporarily alter their signage. From 7 to 13 January, the letter "A" in these signs will appear with an exclamation mark to symbolise Aalto's impact on society. On 8 January, Aaltos staff and students will celebrate the universitys 15th anniversary at Dipoli, with an exhibition showcasing research and student projects from Aalto's history. HT Disaster recovery bill sends $1.65 billion to region Western North Carolina will be receiving $1.65 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds to help rebuild after Hurricane Helene, U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards announced Monday. Related Stories Edwards advocated for the funds in the disaster supplemental bill that he co-sponsored and crafted as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, and which has been signed into law, based on the many conversations he had with local leaders and citizens in WNC who were affected by the storm. The $1.43 billion in CDBG-DR funds will be administered through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city of Asheville will receive and administer $225 million in separate CDBG-DR funds. These are two of many federal disaster assistance funds Edwards included in the bill, which also contains money for agriculture recovery, the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service and Department of Transportation funds to repair destroyed roads and bridges. Every dollar in the disaster supplemental bill that I advocated for as a House Appropriations Committee member was thoughtfully included to make sure that WNC is getting the tools and resources we need in this phase of recovery," Edwards said. "Recovering from Helene will be an ongoing process, and the CDBG-DR grant funds are another important step toward rebuilding our communities. I will continue to be a voice for North Carolinas 11th District in the halls of Congress through every step of rebuilding our mountains. Among the highlights of the disaster supplemental bill were appropriations to: 24-year-old sentenced to prison on child-sex offense felonies A 24-year-old defendant was sentenced to up to 17 years in prison on Tuesday after he was convicted on four sexual offense charges involving a child, District Attorney R. Andrew Murray announced. Related Stories After Jesse Bernard Floyd, 24, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted statutory sexual offense with a child 15 years of age or younger, taking indecent liberties with a child, soliciting a child by computer and disseminating obscenities to a minor under 16, Superior Court Judge Lisa Bell sentenced Floyd to at least 10 years and 5 months and up to 17 years in prison and ordered him to register as a sex offender once released from prison. According to the investigation and court trial records, Floyd befriended the child on the social media website Sniffies and started soliciting the child for nude pictures and sex. After building an online rapport, Floyd was able to convince the child to allow him to come to his home in Polk County. The child became nervous about the meeting and alerted a family member. Floyd was found unclothed in the home of the child and was attempting to carryout sexual acts upon the child. Assistant District Attorney Michael Van Buren handled the prosecution and sentencing of the crimes. Murray thanked Polk County Sheriffs Office lead Detective Caleb Edwards as well as the Polk County Sheriffs Office for their professional and thorough investigation of this case. The D.A. also thanked and commended the critical and essential role of the Safelight Child Advocacy Center in the case. My office, along with our dedicated and professional partners, is committed to protecting children from child predators and cautions parents to diligently limit and monitor their childrens access to social media platforms, Murray said. Australia Post reveals commemorative stamps for Lunar New Year Xinhua) 13:19, January 07, 2025 SYDNEY, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Australia's postal service on Tuesday launched a set of stamps to commemorate the Lunar New Year. Australia Post revealed the set of three stamps ahead of celebrations to mark the Year of the Snake. The Lunar New Year range was designed by Sydney-based artist and illustrator Chrissy Lau, whose work was inspired by her Chinese heritage, for the fifth consecutive year. "The illustrations for this year's Lunar Year of the Snake blend traditional Chinese culture with a modern twist, reflecting Australia's diverse and contemporary culture," Lau said. "I hope these designs inspire the wider community to join in the Lunar New Year celebrations and celebrate the start of 2025." The Lunar New Year will be celebrated with official events across Australia, with festivals planned for Sydney and Melbourne and a gala to be held at the Sydney Opera House. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) He Lifeng, Yellen hold virtual talks, agreeing to manage differences during transition period Xinhua) 13:27, January 07, 2025 BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Tuesday held talks via video links with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, with both sides agreeing to maintain communication, manage differences and continue to stabilize China-U.S. economic relations during the transition period. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Visiting US envoy Amos Hochstein said Israeli forces began withdrawing on Monday from a south Lebanon border town more than halfway into a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. It is the second such pullout since a November 27 ceasefire, and came after United Nations peacekeepers and Lebanon's prime minister late last month called on the Israeli army to speed up its withdrawal from Lebanon's south. "The Israeli military started its withdrawal from Naqura... and back into Israel proper today, south of the Blue Line," Hochstein told reporters, referring to the UN-demarcated boundary between the two countries. "These withdrawals will continue until all Israeli forces are out of Lebanon completely, and as the Lebanese army continues to deploy into the south and all the way to the Blue Line," he added after meeting with parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri, an ally of the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. "I have no reason not to expect that all parties -- all parties -- will remain committed to implementing the agreement that they agreed to," he added after meeting Prime Minister Najib Mikati, and following accusations from Israel and Hezbollah that each side was violating the deal. Israel in September stepped up its bombing campaign and later sent troops into Lebanon following nearly a year of exchanges of cross-border fire initiated by Hezbollah over the war in Gaza. Under the terms of the ceasefire which Hochstein helped broker, the Lebanese army is to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers in the south as the Israeli army withdraws over a 60-day period. Hezbollah is to pull its forces north of the Litani River -- about 30 kilometres (20 miles) from the border -- and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in the south. Mikati called for "a clear timetable to complete the Israeli withdrawal before the end of the 60-day deadline", according to a statement released by his office. It added that any "talk of Israel's intention to extend the ceasefire deadline is firmly rejected". The Lebanese military said that "army units have stationed around the town of Naqura... and began deploying there in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon", referring to UNIFIL, whose headquarters is in Naqura. The deployment came "in parallel with the Israeli enemy's withdrawal", the statement said, and coincided "with a meeting of the five-member committee" overseeing the ceasefire that was also attended by Hochstein. The Israeli army told AFP that it "operates according to the directive of the political echelon and is committed to the understanding in regards to the ceasefire conditions". A committee composed of Israeli, Lebanese, French and US delegates alongside a UNIFIL representative is tasked with ensuring any ceasefire violations are identified and dealt with. Hochstein said he co-chaired the third meeting of the committee on Monday together with United States Major General Jasper Jeffers, adding that "the mechanism is working well". He said that while the ceasefire implementation may not have proceeded "as quickly as some wanted... what I heard in Naqura today gives me hope that we're on the right track". Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Sunday accused Hezbollah of not withdrawing "beyond the Litani River" as stipulated, and of not meeting other terms of the ceasefire, after Hezbollah accused Israel of violations. On December 11, Lebanon's army said it deployed around the border town of Khiam in coordination with UNIFIL, also following the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the area. The US military said it was the first such Israeli force withdrawal and subsequent Lebanese army deployment under the ceasefire. During Monday's visit, his first since the truce, Hochstein also urged political consensus in Lebanon ahead of a presidential vote this week. Lebanon has been without a president for more than two years amid bitter divisions between Hezbollah and its opponents. "These are critical times for Lebanon... not just to implement this agreement, but to come to political consensus, to focus on Lebanon for Lebanese people," Hochstein said ahead Thursday's vote. "This is an opportunity... to really just focus on rebuilding the economy," on implementing "reforms that will allow for investment, and returning the country to economic growth and prosperity for all," Hochstein added. The Lebanese army said Hochstein and Jeffers also met with army commander Joseph Aoun on Monday, discussing the ceasefire. Aoun's name has been floated as a potential presidential candidate. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken insisted during a visit to Tokyo on Tuesday that ties with Japan were stronger than ever, days after President Joe Biden blocked Nippon Steel's takeover of US Steel. Business groups say the decision could have a chilling effect on Japan's standing as the biggest foreign investor in the United States, just as Washington seeks closer ties with Tokyo to counter China. With two weeks left before president-elect Donald Trump takes over and Blinken is slated to be replaced by Marco Rubio, the top US diplomat noted that he also came to Japan on his first trip in 2021. The visits show "not just the importance, the centrality, the United States attaches to our alliance", Blinken said as he met Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya. "This allyship, I believe, it's actually stronger than it's ever been," Blinken said. Pointing to the need to coordinate after North Korea's launch of a missile Monday -- while he was in South Korea -- Blinken said: "Even though we're in a political transition, the world doesn't stop." Blinken also cited the strength of economic ties but made no direct mention of Biden's decision last week to block Nippon Steel's $14.9-billion takeover of long-struggling US Steel, citing national security concerns. In response, the two companies filed a lawsuit on Monday against the Biden administration's "illegal interference" in the transaction. "We're certain the lawsuit will reveal a set of facts that clearly violate the constitution and the law, so I believe we have a chance of winning," Nippon Steel chair Eiji Hashimoto said on Tuesday. Trump, who takes office on January 20, "wants to make manufacturing strong again, and once again enrich the lives and future of manufacturing workers", Hashimoto added. "This is exactly in line with what we're doing." Nippon Steel had touted the takeover as a lifeline for a US company long past its heyday but opponents warned that the Japanese owners would slash jobs. Biden had criticised the deal for months, while holding off on a move that could hurt ties with Tokyo. Japan and the United States are each other's top foreign investors, with Japanese firms investing almost $800 billion in the United States in 2023. In their suit, US and Nippon Steel argued that Biden had blocked the deal for purely political reasons by ignoring the rule of law to gain favour with workers' unions. Blinken had a sushi breakfast at a famous fish market on Tuesday and will later meet Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who said on Monday the United States should "explain clearly" the security concerns cited by Biden. "There are concerns being raised within Japan's industrial world over future Japan-US investment," Ishiba warned in unusually outspoken comments. Protectionism is expected to intensify under Trump, who in his last term exited a nascent Pacific-wide trade pact and has vowed to use tariffs to protect US industry. Blinken had been in Seoul in part to push to preserve three-way cooperation by the United States, Japan and South Korea. Conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol has pushed to turn the page on historical tension with Japan, but he was impeached after he stunned South Korea last month with a failed attempt to impose martial law. "It's in the strategic interest of each of our countries not just to sustain this trilateral cooperation, but to grow it in the years ahead," Blinken told reporters in Seoul. A major storm system that blanketed a large swathe of the central and eastern United States in snow and ice -- disrupting travel for millions and contributing to at least five deaths -- was headed offshore Monday night, forecasters said. Over 2,300 US flights were canceled on Monday with thousands more delayed amid the winter storm, tracking website FlightAware showed, compounding similar air travel headaches from the day before. Meanwhile, nearly 200,000 customers remained without power from Missouri to Virginia as frigid temperatures settled in Monday night, according to Poweroutage.us, another tracking site. The National Weather Service (NWS) said the event, the country's first major winter storm of the year, "will be quickly exiting eastward into the western Atlantic tonight," but that some small snowfall accumulations would continue to be possible in some mountainous and Mid-Atlantic areas. Behind the storm, there was expected to be frigid temperatures for days, with cities such as Kansas City expecting windchills below zero degrees Fahrenheit (-17 degrees Celsius). The mercury could sink tens of degrees below seasonal norms on the US Gulf Coast. In Washington, several inches of snow did not hinder Congress from meeting to certify Donald Trump's election victory, four years to the day after his supporters stormed the US Capitol to try to overturn his 2020 loss. President Joe Biden was closely monitoring the severe weather and ready to support affected states, a White House spokesman said. Many residents of the US capital, where federal offices and schools were closed due to the storm, spent the day outside enjoying the semi-rare snow day, with hundreds even participating in a mass snowball fight. One woman trekking in skis told AFP she was excited to finally be able to use them this season. "I probably get to do it once a year in DC because it doesn't snow that much. But I love it," said Nikki White. As the storm tracked eastward, it brought blizzard conditions to Kansas and Missouri, while parts of Kentucky and elsewhere received dangerous coatings of ice, turning highways into ice rinks and downing trees. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported two weather-related fatalities, and side late Sunday it had responded to over 1,000 stranded motorists. In Kansas, two people were killed after the vehicle they were traveling in spun out on a highway, while another person was killed after colliding with an out-of-control tractor trailer, the state's highway patrol reported. Video clips from Kansas showed cars skidding off ice-coated highways and tractor trailers jack-knifing. The system was also blasting chilly winds across the Great Lakes into New York, where some areas have received multiple feet of so-called lake effect snow. 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. Scientists say extreme weather is becoming more common and more severe as a result of manmade climate change. Several governors and local officials, including in Kentucky, Missouri, Virginia and Maryland have declared states of emergency and urged residents to stay home while emergency management works to clear roads. Fresh on this storm's heels, forecasters warned that another weather system was threatening to wreak more havoc later in the week, potentially bringing a rare major snowstorm to Texas as it heads east. Texas Governor Greg Abbott said on X that he had activated state emergency response resources ahead of the "severe winter weather," which forecasters say could bring multiple inches of snow accumulations to the Dallas metropolitan area. There was also a possibility that another major snowstorm could develop in the Mid-Atlantic region by the weekend, but forecasters said the modeling was still highly uncertain. In southern California, several areas were under warnings Monday for extreme winds and low humidity, severely increasing the threat of fast-spreading wildfires. The California Office of Emergency Services said it was pre-positioning dozens of fire engines, eight helicopters, and crew ahead of the winds, which could bring gusts of up to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour). Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians surged across the occupied West Bank on Monday after gunmen killed three Israelis and injured eight others in a fresh wave of violence. Long-standing tensions in the West Bank have intensified since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks and the subsequent Israeli assault on Gaza, plunging the region into heightened unrest. Settler attacks on Palestinian communities have escalated, fueled by Israel's offensive in Gaza and the backing of its right-wing government. Simultaneously, Palestinians have also carried out attacks on settlers. Earlier on Monday, gunmen targeted Israeli vehicles on Route 55 near Al-Funduq, a Palestinian village in the northern West Bank. The road, which passes through the Kedumim settlement, became the site of a deadly shooting that claimed the lives of two women and a man. The women were residents of Kedumim, while the man, a police investigator from northern Israel, succumbed to gunshot wounds. Eight others, including a bus driver, were injured, according to Israel's Magen David Adom emergency service. The attack spurred retaliatory settler violence. In Hajja, settlers reportedly set a vehicle on fire, while in Far'ata and Amatin villages, they threw stones at homes and destroyed crops, according to the Palestinian news agency WAFA. In Amatin, Israeli forces allegedly fired on residents attempting to confront the settlers. However, the Israeli military stated it did not know about the incident. Two additional incidents of settler violence were reported on Monday evening. Southeast of Ramallah, Israeli settlers set fire to an agricultural room in the town of Turmus Ayya, according to security sources cited by WAFA. In another attack near Bethlehem, settlers reportedly targeted Palestinian vehicles by throwing stones, WAFA reported. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation following the deadly gunman attack earlier in the day. In a statement on X, he pledged to "find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them. No one will get away." Netanyahu is expected to hold a cabinet meeting on Tuesday to address developments in the West Bank. While no group has claimed responsibility for the shooting, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has praised the attack, which Israel has described as a "terrorist attack." The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Thousands of Orthodox Christians celebrated Christmas on Monday, attending prayers and midnight mass, draped in an all-white traditional attire to mark the birth of Jesus Christ and the end of a 43-day fasting period. Perched above the heart of Sao Paulo, the brand's newest hotel reimagines luxury by drawing inspiration from the city's vibrant art, music, and architectural heritage W Sao Paulo and W Residences Sao Paulo, part of Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, opens its doors as the brand's first property in Brazil. Located in a modern skyscraper atop Rua Funchal in Sao Paulo's buzzing southern business district, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the Pinheiros River and the city skyline, promising the ultimate guest experience. "As we unveil W Sao Paulo, we are not simply launching a new hotel - W Hotels is immersing itself in the energy of one of the world's most dynamic cities," said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, W Hotels. "W Sao Paulo captures the pulse of Brazil's cultural vibrancy, blending local influences with our signature bold, distinct design. This opening is a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences that push boundaries while simultaneously celebrating the essence of the destination." W Sao Paulo features striking, cutting-edge architecture and modern design. With 179 stylishly designed hotel rooms starting on the 25th floor, including 16 suites, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the city center. The hotel boasts the brand's signature AWAY Spa, FIT gym, WET Deck complete with an outdoor pool, along with two restaurants, three bars, and five event spaces, including the expansive Great Room, covering 400m. Additionally, an ornate walkway bridges Rua Funchal to Rua Helena, seamlessly allowing guests to engage with the city at their fingertips. W Sao Paulo introduces a curated selection of dynamic programs focused on music, gastronomy, and wellness. Guests can enjoy tailored experiences like the Sunset Ritual at the WET Deck, Stretching Bossa Nova at FIT, wine tastings at BAIO restaurant, and rejuvenating sessions at the AWAY Spa. A Bold Blend of Modern Design and Local Flair W Sao Paulo is a striking fusion of contemporary design and local authenticity. Built on the site of the iconic Teatro Via Funchal, the hotel's design is a collaboration between Aflalo/Gasperini Arquitetos, with landscaping from Benedito Abbud, and interiors by Nini de Andrade Silva. W Sao Paulo celebrates Brazilian modernist architecture with angular lines, sinuous curves, and a vivid color palette with various shades of greens, blues, metallics, and golden tones. With unique design pieces, rich textures, and organic materials like Brazilian stone and wood, the hotel creates a playful yet sophisticated environment that captures the city's cultural essence, offering guests a seamless fusion of modern luxury and local heritage. Global Flavors, Local Ingredients, Unforgettable Dining The hotel features three exceptional dining experiences, each offering its own unique atmosphere. L40 Cozinha de Latitude, located on the 40th floor, presents stunning panoramic views of the city and invites guests to embark on a global culinary journey. Drawing inspiration from the 40th Latitude, the restaurant celebrates the gastronomic traditions of the 16 regions, including Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, China, Japan, and the United States, while seamlessly infusing Brazilian ingredients and culinary techniques. Led by Executive Chef Thomaz Leao, the restaurant masterfully combines local flavors with international influences. Baio Cozinha Sulista, the restaurant and bar located on the 23rd floor, offers an innovative take on Southern Brazilian cuisines, crafted by Chef Tuca Mezzomo. The menu honors the region's rich culinary traditions while preparing the dishes with a fresh, contemporary twist, highlighting both seasonality and local ingredients. Meanwhile, Yoso Bar and Cafe, located in the Living Room on the 24th floor, offers an immersive experience that culminates in Japanese mixology. Using unexpected ingredients, the bar creates an authentic and sophisticated atmosphere, blending tradition with modern flair. Revitalize and Rebalance Perched on the 39th floor, the AWAY Spa offers a serene retreat with exclusive treatments crafted with Brazilian ingredients, designed to provide personalized, transformative spa experiences. Drawing inspiration from Brazil's diverse biomes, the tailored treatments named after regions in Brazil including Amazon, Caatinga, and Pampas Gauchos, are thoughtfully curated to awaken the senses and deliver an immersive wellness journey. The treatments include native Brazilian ingredients including acai, bacuri, buriti, umbu, and butia. The spa's sustainable amenities, crafted by Feito Brasil, further elevate the experience with their all-natural ingredients. With three luxurious treatment rooms, including a couple's suite, and an exclusive bar, the spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation. For those seeking high-energy wellness, FIT offers high-intensity workouts and boot camps with cutting-edge TechnoGym equipment, perfectly embodying the brand's energetic and social approach to wellness. W Residences Sao Paulo From the second to the twenty-second floor, the property also boasts 216 W Residences, available in five distinct categories ranging from 53 to 102 m. Residents can enjoy an array of amenities including an indoor swimming pool, two saunas, a serene relaxation area, the brand's signature FIT gym, a co-working space, and an event hall. Hotel website eachtree Group ("Peachtree") announced today that Josh Rubinger has joined as senior vice president of national accounts for its broker-dealer affiliate, Peachtree PC Investors ("PPCI"). Rubinger's role will focus on business development, overseeing relationships with broker-dealers and registered investment advisors ("RIAs") and supporting the distribution of the firm's investment offerings. With more than two decades of experience in financial services and a proven track record of developing strong client relationships, Rubinger's leadership will further strengthen Peachtree's commitment to delivering tailored investment solutions through PPCI. Prior to joining PPCI, Rubinger served as senior vice president and head of national accounts for Ashford Securities, a broker-dealer wholly owned by Ashford Inc., an alternative asset management company specializing in the real estate and hospitality sectors. Before Ashford, he served as senior vice president of national accounts for Lightstone Capital Markets, the capital markets division of The Lightstone Group. Rubinger also served as vice president and East Coast national accounts manager at Thompson National Properties LLC. Before entering the alternative investment space, he held roles with Oppenheimer Funds and Columbia Funds. Rubinger holds a bachelor's degree from Hamilton College and FINRA Series 7 and 63 securities licenses. Hilton Irvine, a premier destination for business and leisure travelers in the heart of Orange County, has appointed hospitality expert, Stewart Arevalo, as its new Director of Operations. With over a decade of experience at Hilton properties across Southern California, Arevalo is set to lead with vision, passion, and a guest-first approach, further enhancing the hotel's reputation for excellence. Arevalo brings a wealth of experience to Hilton Irvine, honed through his roles as Assistant General Manager at Hilton properties in Anaheim and Los Angeles. His expertise in guest services, team building, and operational excellence equips him to elevate the hotel's performance and guest experiences through effective communication and property activations. Known for his transformational leadership style, Arevalo fosters a culture of collaboration and creativity, empowering team members to contribute their best ideas. By prioritizing innovation, he aims to inspire a dynamic and inclusive environment that sets new standards for hospitality at Hilton Irvine. MINNEAPOLIS - IDeaS, a SAS company, the worlds leading provider of revenue management software and services, was recognized for the second year as one of Built Ins 2025 Best Places to Work. IDeaS once again earned recognition in two categories: Top 100 Best U.S. Companies and Top 100 Best U.S. Midsize Companies to Work For in 2025. The annual awards program includes companies of all sizes, from startups to those in the enterprise tier, and honors remote-first employers and companies in large tech markets across the U.S. Built In determines the winners of Best Places to Work based on an algorithm, using company data about compensation and benefits. To reflect the benefits candidates are searching for more frequently on Built In, the program also weighs criteria like remote and flexible work opportunities, programs for DEI and other people-first cultural offerings. Receiving the Best Places to Work awards is an honor that reflects our commitment to fostering a culture where our employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to innovate. At IDeaS, we believe that investing in our people drives the success of our clients and our business. This recognition reinforces our dedication to being an employer of choice in the tech industry. Dr. Ravi Mehrotra, co-founder, president, and chief scientist, IDeaS Being recognized as a Best Place to Work is a testament to these companies' commitment to building a workplace where individuals and innovation thrive. At Built In, we understand that great companies are powered by great teams, and this achievement showcases their dedication to fostering a culture of growth, inclusivity, and excellence. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Maria Christopoulos Katris, founder and CEO, Built In About IDeaS IDeaS, a SAS company, is the worlds leading revenue management software and services provider. Combining industry knowledge with innovative data analytics technology, IDeaS creates sophisticated yet simple ways to empower revenue leaders with precise, automated recommendations they can trust. With 35 years of expertise serving hospitality, including hotel, event, and parking clients, IDeaS delivers revenue science to more than 30,000 properties in 164 countries around the world. Results delivered. Revenue transformed. Discover greater profitability at IDeaS.com. About Built In Built In is the always on recruiting platform that reaches the tech professionals that other leading recruiting platforms dont. Designed to help companies hire expert tech talent, Built In continuously drives brand awareness with content. Monthly, millions of the industrys most in-demand global tech professionals visit our site to stay ahead of tech trends and news, learn skills to accelerate their careers, find the right job opportunities and get hired. Thousands of companies, from fast-growing startups to the largest enterprises rely on Built In. By putting their stories in front of our uniquely engaged audience, we help them hire otherwise hard-to-reach technical and expert talent. www.builtin.com About Built Ins Best Places to Work Built Ins annual Best Places to Work program honors companies with the best total rewards packages across the U.S. and in the following tech hubs: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington DC. Best Places to Work is distinct because its algorithm selects tech companies that build their offerings specifically around what tech professionals value in a workplace. https://employers.builtin.com/best-places-to-work Elliott Mest Public Relations 862-371-0511 An undisclosed Canary Islands-based family office has acquired the four-star, 409-room Labranda Suites Costa Adeje on Tenerife, Spain, from Spanish REIT Atom Hoteles SOCIMI, for 110 million (268,950 per room). Tenerife is the largest of Spains Canary Islands, and the property is situated on the south side of the island, 500 metres from the sea and 20 kms from Tenerifes main airport, Reina Sofia. The property features nine F&B outlets, three swimming pools, a wellness centre and a multi-sports court. Following Atom Hotels' acquisition of the property in 2019, it was renovated and repositioned as a four-star superior hotel. The new owners also own and operate other hotels in the same area. A Spanish investment group has acquired the four-star, 177-room Hotel Vincci Bit in Barcelona, Spain, from Spanish real estate developer Grupo Rosales Inmobiliario, for approximately 60 million (339,000 per room). The property is situated in the Diagonal Mar area within the 22@ district, just one km from the beach. The hotel opened in 2012 and includes a rooftop pool, restaurant and bar. Vincci Hotels currently operates the hotel under a lease agreement. A group of private investors has acquired the five-star, 117-room Ocean Drive Talamanca on Ibiza, Spain, from Ibiza-based owner operator OD Group, owned by Marc Rahola Matutes who developed and opened the hotel in 2016. The property is situated on the coast three kms north-east of Ibiza Town and some 13 kms from Ibiza Airport. The hotel includes swimming pools, a restaurant and two bars. OD Hotels will continue to manage the hotel under the Ocean Drive brand for the next 25 years. In April 2024, OD Group also sold the five-star, 98-room Ocean Drive Barcelona for 50 million (510,200 per room). Travelodge acquires Barcelona Cornella Fira hotel from Louvre British owner operator Travelodge has completed the acquisition of a three-star, 83-room hotel in Spain, located at Barcelona Fira, the citys trade fair centre, from French owner operator Louvre Hotels Group. The property, acquired on a long-leasehold basis and now known as Travelodge Barcelona Cornella Fira, is situated in the south of Barcelona, ten-minutes drive from Barcelona airport. It is the final hotel of a six-hotel portfolio which Travelodge agreed to acquire from Louvre in April 2024, with the other five properties having been acquired on a freehold basis. Travelodge intends to further expand its portfolio in Spain, including three new-build hotels in San Sebastian, Cadiz and Alicante, that are due to commence construction this year. Atlantic Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit (AOHIS) 20th - 21st January HVS is pleased to be sponsoring the third Atlantic Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit (AOHIS) being held in Madrid on January 20th and 21st. AOHIS is an owner-driven conference, focused on hotel real estate investors, developers and franchisees. From HVS, Charles Human and Sophie Perrett will be attending the event, with Charles moderating a plenary session entitled Why are so many investors focused on buying platforms rather than single assets?. More information on the event, including registration details, can be found at www.aohis.co. Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) begins the next chapter of its reimagination of the Radisson Hotels Americas brands, which it acquired in 2022, with the introduction of new visual identities, including new logos for Radisson, Radisson Blu and Radisson Individuals. The new looks draw from these iconic brands' renowned legacy of world-class hospitality while embracing Choice Hotels' bold and innovative vision to shake up the hotel industry's upscale and upper upscale segments. The new logos shepherd in a new phase of advancements for these brands under Choice, and are among one of several experiential elements that the company will begin to implement at hotels in the Americas this year following its repositioning of Radisson, Radisson Blu and Radisson Individuals in 2024 to attract more upscale guests and investors and to optimize revenue for owners. "Since our integration of the Radisson brands, we've sharpened their brand propositions to captivate travelers who are looking for a hotel stay that stands above the rest. This year will mark just the beginning of our efforts to translate that vision into something customers can experience and enjoy on property," said Indy Adenaw, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Upscale Brands, Choice Hotels International. "We are excited to usher in a new era for these beloved Radisson brands. At Choice Hotels, we're never ones to rest on our laurels. We're committed to further strengthening and distinguishing these brands within an increasingly competitive landscape so that owners can be confident they're gaining a truly great value from their investment." Later this year, Choice will unveil elevated and flexible food and beverage concepts at Radisson hotels, along with other enhancements to the guest experience. Starting with an upcoming hotel in Grenada, Radisson Blu properties will feature functional and inviting Scandinavian-inspired public space and guest room designs, including a "Get Ready Moment" wall housing a large vanity and full-sized closet with flattering lighting. Choice will also introduce new premium amenities including shower, hair and body products to elevate the bathroom experience at Radisson and Radisson Blu hotels. All these developments are rooted in the brands' shared philosophy of approachability and honoring their heritage of warm hospitality while also fearlessly challenging norms in the upscale segments. AI's Next Frontier: What to Expect in 2025 - By Ivana Johnston - Image Credit Unsplash+ Remember when Alexa and Siri were the epitome of innovation? Even though I'm currently enamored with them, I suspect my new Meta Smart Glasses (a recent holiday gift) will be outdated before long. Looking back at this past year, it's clear that AI's evolution has been nothing short of revolutionary. Just think about the everyday tasks that have become nearly seamless or even invisible thanks to AI. From the way we order groceries online to how we navigate city streets using autonomous vehicles, AI is quietly weaving its way into the fabric of our daily lives. But this is just the beginning. Could the next cure for a major disease be identified by an AI? Quite possibly. As we look to the future, one can't help but wonder how these advancements will continue to shape our world. One thing is certain: we are only beginning to scratch the surface of AI's potential, and the journey ahead promises to be as transformative as it is exciting. Let's explore whats next for AI in 2025 and beyond. The Rise of AI Agents Welcome to 2025, where AI isn't just another toolit's your entire C-suite condensed into a digital powerhouse. Microsoft, OpenAI, and Alphabet aren't just leading this charge; they're rewriting the rules of what's possible. According to Research and Markets' latest analysis, the automation sector isn't just growingit's fundamentally restructuring how we conceptualize work itself. Picture this: While you're strategizing your company's next big move, your AI agents are: Negotiating better terms with vendors Optimizing your entire supply chain Drafting and refining quarterly reports Managing customer service operations with unprecedented efficiency Identifying market opportunities you haven't even considered yet A recent Forbes analysis reveals companies integrating these AI agents into their operations are seeing efficiency gains that make traditional automation look like using a sundial to measure microseconds. When Robots Get Real Remember when robots were just cool YouTube videos from Boston Dynamics? Those same robots are now revolutionizing operations at Ford and Tesla, and they're bringing friends. These aren't your grandfather's assembly line machinesthey're sophisticated orchestrators of physical reality, perfecting their craft in virtual environments before executing in ours. The price tag might raise eyebrows, but here's the strategic insight: When your competition is exponentially more efficient, cost becomes relative to obsolescence. The Quest for Smarter AI Late 2024 dropped a truth bomb that rattled Silicon Valley: cutting-edge AI models hit an unexpected plateau. But here's where it gets interestingthis apparent setback catalyzed a complete rethinking of machine intelligence that's proving more valuable than the original trajectory. OpenAI's groundbreaking o3 methodology and Google's first reasoning-capable model aren't just incremental improvementsthey're fundamental shifts in how machines process information. We're witnessing the emergence of: Small Language Models (SLMs) for specialized tasks Neuro-symbolic AI blending traditional and innovative approaches Environmental consciousness in AI training Chain-of-thought processing that rivals human reasoning The Voice-First Future "Execute quarterly strategy" will soon carry the same weight as a board meeting decision. Voice technology isn't just evolvingit's becoming the primary interface between human intention and digital execution. This isn't speculation; it's next quarter's competitive advantage. The Great Skills Realignment Let's talk numbers that matter: Business leaders embracing generative AI: 55% to 75% jump in 12 months Projected AI market value by 2030: $1.81 trillion (Statista) Gartner's predicted AI-driven business value: $3.9 trillion IBM's warning to students isn't just career adviceit's survival guidance for the cognitive economy. Companies are rapidly developing bespoke AI solutions, combining proprietary data with external expertise to create unique competitive advantages. AI's Growing Footprint While everyone debates AI's impact on productivity, it's quietly revolutionizing life-or-death decisions. The Lancet Digital Health's study reveals AI systems not just matching but occasionally surpassing human radiologists in diagnostic accuracy. The National Institute of Health projects AI will slash drug discovery timelines by years, not months. Meta's upcoming AI headsets and Orion AR glasses aren't just new productsthey're portals to a new reality where digital and physical worlds blur beyond recognition. Companies quick to establish presence in this new frontier will write the rules for everyone else. The Next Wave Isn't ComingIt's Already Here Remember when going digital was optional? Those days are over. Right now, AI isn't just changing business it's inventing new possibilities. It's finding new molecules, predicting market changes before they happen, and writing code that makes last year's tech seem ancient. This isn't just change; it's transformation. Remember Kodak? They were pioneers of the digital age but went bankrupt because they couldn't see a future without film. Today's businesses face the same choice: shape the future or become a part of history. This isn't disruption it's evolution. And in evolution, adaptation is critical for survival. Just ask Blockbuster or MySpace. About the Author Ivana Johnston, CEO and co-founder of Puzzle Partner, is a trusted brand strategist that collaborates with some of the world's most innovative companies in hospitality, travel, wellness, healthcare and technology. She has a proven track record of initiating, driving, and cultivating high-value business ideas and relationships, helping her clients outperform the competition, achieve profitable exits, and expand into the Americas. Her insights are regularly featured in business trade publications, Forbes.com, Entrepreneur and other prominent media outlets. As a member of the Forbes Agency Council, Forbes Business Council she contributes to Forbes Expert Panels, offering her expertise on the interplay of advanced technologies and business success. Connect with Ivana on LinkedIn. Spanish investment group acquires Hotel Vincci Bit from Grupo Rosales - Image Credit Iberostar A summary of European hotel transactions provided by HVS Canary Islands family office acquires Labranda Suites Costa Adeje Tenerife An undisclosed Canary Islands-based family office has acquired the four-star, 409-room Labranda Suites Costa Adeje on Tenerife, Spain, from Spanish REIT Atom Hoteles SOCIMI, for 110 million (268,950 per room). Tenerife is the largest of Spains Canary Islands, and the property is situated on the south side of the island, 500 metres from the sea and 20 kms from Tenerifes main airport, Reina Sofia. The property features nine F&B outlets, three swimming pools, a wellness centre and a multi-sports court. Following Atom Hotels' acquisition of the property in 2019, it was renovated and repositioned as a four-star superior hotel. The new owners also own and operate other hotels in the same area. Spanish investment group acquires Hotel Vincci Bit from Grupo Rosales A Spanish investment group has acquired the four-star, 177-room Hotel Vincci Bit in Barcelona, Spain, from Spanish real estate developer Grupo Rosales Inmobiliario, for approximately 60 million (339,000 per room). The property is situated in the Diagonal Mar area within the 22@ district, just one km from the beach. The hotel opened in 2012 and includes a rooftop pool, restaurant and bar. Vincci Hotels currently operates the hotel under a lease agreement. Private investors acquire Ocean Drive Talamanca on Ibiza from OD Group A group of private investors has acquired the five-star, 117-room Ocean Drive Talamanca on Ibiza, Spain, from Ibiza-based owner operator OD Group, owned by Marc Rahola Matutes who developed and opened the hotel in 2016. The property is situated on the coast three kms north-east of Ibiza Town and some 13 kms from Ibiza Airport. The hotel includes swimming pools, a restaurant and two bars. OD Hotels will continue to manage the hotel under the Ocean Drive brand for the next 25 years. In April 2024, OD Group also sold the five-star, 98-room Ocean Drive Barcelona for 50 million (510,200 per room). Travelodge acquires Barcelona Cornella Fira hotel from Louvre British owner operator Travelodge has completed the acquisition of a three-star, 83-room hotel in Spain, located at Barcelona Fira, the citys trade fair centre, from French owner operator Louvre Hotels Group. The property, acquired on a long-leasehold basis and now known as Travelodge Barcelona Cornella Fira, is situated in the south of Barcelona, ten-minutes drive from Barcelona airport. It is the final hotel of a six-hotel portfolio which Travelodge agreed to acquire from Louvre in April 2024, with the other five properties having been acquired on a freehold basis. Travelodge intends to further expand its portfolio in Spain, including three new-build hotels in San Sebastian, Cadiz and Alicante, that are due to commence construction this year. Atlantic Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit (AOHIS) 20th - 21st January HVS is pleased to be sponsoring the third Atlantic Ocean Hotel Investors' Summit (AOHIS) being held in Madrid on January 20th and 21st. AOHIS is an owner-driven conference, focused on hotel real estate investors, developers and franchisees. From HVS, Charles Human and Sophie Perret will be attending the event, with Charles moderating a plenary session entitled Why are so many investors focused on buying platforms rather than single assets?. More information on the event, including registration details, can be found at www.aohis.co. HVS is the world's leading consulting and valuation services organization focused on the hotel, restaurant, shared ownership, gaming, and leisure industries. Established in 1980, the company performs more than 4,500 assignments per year for virtually every major industry participant. HVS principals are regarded as the leading professionals in their respective regions of the globe. Through a worldwide network of over 50 offices staffed by 300 experienced industry professionals, HVS provides an unparalleled range of complementary services for the hospitality industry. For further information regarding our expertise and specifics about our services, please visit www.hvs.com. Wait! Before you go Please sign up for our Evening Digest and Breaking Newsletters Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Merlin shares state of independent music in email to staff Merlin CEO Jeremy Sirota sent out a New Years state of independent music memo to staff that serves as a recap of 2024 and a look ahead both for the company and the entire independent music sector. Merlin members are estimated to represent 15% of global recorded music market. The company acts as their members digital music licensing partner negotiating deals with Apple, Facebook, Spotify, YouTube, and 40 other platforms around the world. TikTok proved a challenge for Merin in 2024, going direct to labels and distributors after licensing renegotiations broke down In the email, Sirota reflected on a transformative 2024 and sets the stage for an ambitious 2025. Bruce Houghton Hi Merlin Team, As we start a new year, Im struck by a simple truth: while our members represent over 15% of the global recorded music market, the music industrys future will not be shaped by those with the broadest reach or even deepest pockets. It will be owned by those with the clearest vision and strongest commitment to artists. This is why we stay laser-focused on our singular mission: strengthening the worlds leading independents to compete and strengthen their independence. I couldnt be prouder of our mission and this team. Lets never forget that our difference is more than just a business model; its a belief system. We deliver true independence as the only global deal making organization that is member-led, member-owned, and member-governed. Every single day, we wake up and get to solve the most important question: how can we better serve our members? Our key performance indicator is simple: the success of our members and the artists they represent. Id be remiss if I didnt specifically acknowledge your incredible cross functional work in December, which culminated in the launch of Merlins first AI pilot program. This was an impressive accomplishment achieved in close partnership with our members. It also marks an exciting start to our AI journey with a global partner. We are proving that innovation, respect for artists, and delivering on our policy on AI and abiding by our position on AI can go hand in hand. Lets continue to identify AI partners who want to be on the right side of history about copyright, consent, and culture. Lets reflect back on 2024 and then look forward to 2025. Membership Collectively, our membership rivals the largest players in music. Merlin stands as the guardian of independence in digital music, not just through deals and technology, but as a force that protects and empowers independents to thrive on their own terms. We are indies smart, adaptable, and fiercely dedicated to proving that independence, partnership with artists and market leadership can go hand in hand. From our newest team member to our longest-serving partner, we share one goal: ensuring independent music maintains its significance and voice in the digital future. Everyone at Merlin is inspired by the diversity of artists, music, and experimentation our independent members bring to the world. This year we were proud to welcome a number of leading and innovative independents into Merlin deals: Artist Partner Group (U.S.), Nettwerk Music Group (Canada), Rostrum Pacific (U.S.), UNFD (Australia), VP Music Group, and Wide Awake (Netherlands). Merlin members rule. Heres just a small sample of the incredible releases from our members artists in 2024 (and a soundtrack to start the new year): Armada Music the world is always a better place when Armin van Buuren releases new music releases new music Better Noise The Hu s live album s live album Curb Records the resurgence of Sixpence None the Richer Kiss Me Kiss Me Domino Records who doesnt love Arctic Monkeys , but, also, what an amazing debut solo album from Beth Gibbons , but, also, what an amazing debut solo album from EMPIRE one word: Shaboozey Exceleration & Redeye Daptone Records released the new album from Thee Sacred Souls Got a Story to Tell Got a Story to Tell Hopeless a new Neck Deep album and 30 years of Hopeless album and 30 years of Hopeless Lex Records the album by Eyedress Vampire in Beverly Hills Vampire in Beverly Hills Muting the Noise Adam Port s amazing track Move s amazing track Move Nettwerk boa Duvet Duvet Ninja Tune the viral hit by nimino I Only Smoke When I Drink I Only Smoke When I Drink Pony Canyon the new album Rejoice from OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM Secret City Patrick Watson Je Te Laisserai des Mots (the first French language song to reach 1bn streams on Spotify) Je Te Laisserai des Mots (the first French language song to reach 1bn streams on Spotify) Secretly the continued success of Mitski My Love Mine All Mine and Khruangbin (Best New Artist nod at Grammys) My Love Mine All Mine and (Best New Artist nod at Grammys) Sub Pop Suki Waterhouse UnitedMasters what a year for FloyyMenor Warp Records releases from Flying Lotus and Nightmares on Wax Finally, you know that our Admin Fee is used to cover our budget and is initially set at 1.5%. Every year we set a goal of maximizing how much we pay back to our members as a rebate (i.e., the difference between our actual budget and the 1.5%). Im pleased to report that, over the last three years, we have paid back nearly 16,000,000 to our members in rebates. From 2021 through 2023, our average effective admin fee was 1.17%. Theres no guarantee we can always achieve these incredibly low rates, but this is a remarkable achievement to celebrate. Its a testament to your hard work and the creativity in how we operate this organization. Partnership Yes, we renewed our licensing agreement with Meta. More importantly, we strengthened and expanded our partnership. Meta is a partner who values Merlin, its members, independent music and building together. Thats why I continue to prioritize this partnership. The Meta team is keen on helping our members and their artists drive culture, are keen on fandom, and appreciate the unbelievable talent of independent artists. We also struck a new deal with Audiomack, an artist-first music streaming platform that empowers artists to reach and engage with fans worldwide. Despite being in business for over twelve years, and a significant number of our members having direct deals, nearly 400 of our members joined the Merlin deal, putting it near the top of deals for the total number of members opted in. That is the value of Merlin and the importance placed by Audiomack on our partnership. We ensured our members are at the forefront of social streaming platforms, striking deals with Rythm, the pioneering community-based group listening platform, and Turntable (Hangout), designed to make music a more social experience. Every partnership matters to me, but I want to applaud your enhanced approach to dealmaking and partnership in renewing with Peloton (new features), Tencent (VIP tier), Twitch (DJ program), and YouTube (working in partnership with them on the full spectrum of our relationship from content integrity through to their product innovations). Beyond new deals, we renewed our partnerships with Anghami, Deezer, FLO, iHeart, JioSaavn, JOOX, KKBox, Kuaishou, Lickd, and VEVO. These are music services that value Merlin, its members and independent music. One stand-out you might have missed is our Soundtrack Your Brand partnership where, thanks to a cross functional team effort, we have increased our members deal participation by over 50%. Another stand-out is our Canva partnership, where Merlin members and their artists music account for over 40% of Canvas music library. Thats the power of independent music. Merliners 2024 was our Year of Connectivity. To continue providing opportunities for the Merlin team to build closer relationships with our members, our partners, the trade associations, and each other, we held our first ever company-wide global retreat (which you affectionately called The Great Merlin Escape). We set goals of fostering greater understanding and empathy, building context across teams, and leaning more into strategic thinking. It was great to have a dedicated facilitator to help Merliners better understand their own strengths, learn how to more effectively collaborate cross functionally, and implement practices that help Merliners more effectively serve the needs of our members. Dont forget you can find the group photo here. For a small team, I am amazed at how many opportunities we create to connect with our partners, members, and the network of dedicated trade associations around the world. The web sessions and in-person meet-ups we hosted had attendees numbering in the thousands; we traveled to over 30+ countries; we participated in dozens of panels, moderated many more, and delivered keynotes; and we were proud to organize unique visits to our members offices where so many Merliners could listen to, learn from and interact with our members. I cant wait to do more of those this year. We integrated these connections into our daily operations by launching and improving the internal systems that make knowledge-sharing about our business relationships easier throughout the org, all in the service of helping members and partners get more from Merlin. Continuing with the theme of connectivity, I want to again extend a warm welcome so many talented people who joined in 2024 across virtually every discipline: Alice Moss arrived from SoundCloud into our Member Operations team; Carol Zuma-Hall from Platoon/Apple as our new Controller; Ceri Brown as our new UI/UX designer; Emillia Walsh as our talented Paralegal; Gary Watson moved from a consultancy role on our Data Warehouse initiative to leading our Data Operations team; Jac Powell came from Universal Music as senior data analyst; Kirsty Langdell as our new People & Culture Lead; Leah Kraft with time at Spotify and Disney joined Member Relations; Maria Lavric in our newly-formed Data Operations team; Martin Vovk joins from Sony Music as our new Insights lead; Matt Price as a Data Engineer supporting our warehouse; Molly Kempen on our reporting team; Sara Oman on our analytics team; Simon-Turner Thompson as our new product manager; and Wes Green as our first-in-kind Product Owner. I also want to welcome back Kaoruko Hill, our second boomerang employee, as our new GM for APAC. And the unbelievably talented Neil Miller, who joined as our new General Counsel, supporting the best Business Affairs team in the world. Technology and Innovation Were building a future where independent music thrives on its own terms innovative, authentic, and uncompromised. This isnt about competing with or trying to recreate the past. Its about redefining whats possible when technology and independence join forces. But scale alone is not enough. Music discovery and consumption have fundamentally changed. Gaming, social platforms, and new consumption models have shifted power toward independents. Our deals dont just ride these changes they shape how value flows to rightsholders. This is how Merlin helps our members stay at the forefront of the industry. We are in this business because we love music and the artists who make it. Our superpower at Merlin is built on supporting our global membership through three core philosophies: rights, relationships, and resourcing (here). Along those lines, Im thrilled with how far along weve come with our Data Warehouse and our Insights initiative. Merlin sits on one of the largest sets of recorded music data in the industry. Our ability to leverage that data will unlock so many opportunities for our members. From helping our members understand rapidly changing platform trends to navigating new markets, we have greatly expanded the access independents have to critical insights. Kudos to the team in refining and improving Dremio and our capability for better business analytics and insights performance. This sets the stage for 2025 in continuing to improve how we help members understand their performance within the global marketplace. And, of course, Merlin Connect. While others guard old models, we saw that emerging platforms needed a fresh approach to music licensing. These platforms want quality music but traditional licensing remains complex, slow, and expensive. We built something different: a streamlined path to independent music, backed by API delivery and hands-on support. This isnt another licensing deal were investing in the future of independent music and creating a blueprint for how music powers the next wave of digital experiences. Whats most exciting? The unlimited possibilities we can explore and technologies we havent even heard of yet. Through Merlin Connect, were opening new channels for our members music while solving a critical market problem. Its exciting that platforms want to work exclusively with Merlin and its members as their music solution of choice. They know the transformative impact our members music will have on their platforms and we cant wait to be the catalyst for that impact this year. 2025 and Beyond Lets crank our initiatives up to 11: Super Serve Our Members: With our Insights visualization rollout, we will expand the scope of business intelligence available to our members, and deliver it via a self-serve tool in the Wizard. Supercharge Merlin Connect: Lets continue to drive opportunities into emerging platforms and create monetization opportunities by making music accessible to more business innovators. Expand Merlin Engage; Build More Community: This mentorship program, from across the global Merlin membership, is helping empower the next generation of female leaders in the independent music space. Last year, we expanded our program to 30 participants, brought on board a seasoned facilitator (Miriam Meima), and offered additional workshops in managing up, storytelling (also offered to program alumni), and other workshops in soft skills. This year were going bigger. Enjoy a well-deserved break with your friends and family. I look forward to our work together in 2025 and beyond. Lets build a future for true independence! Jeremy Share on: CBRSD to Reconvene Regional Agreement Panel DALTON, Mass. After an outcry of concern from residents in several small towns in the Central Berkshire Regional School District, the district will investigate how to adjust its proposed update of the regional agreement. The district has been functioning without an approved regional agreement since 1968. The agreement was updated in 1997 but received approval only from the towns, not the state commissioner. For over a year, the district has been working to bring the agreement up to date with state law. "It's been a long time we've been operating without approval. State law is we're supposed to be operating with approval," School Committee Chair Richard Peters said. "Obviously, we operate under the state law, and that trumps anything we do in a regional agreement." Although state law requires that a district have an approved regional agreement, the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education does not penalize a district that does not have a state-approved regional agreement, Vice Chair David Stuart said. "The way it was explained to me is that it's essentially a legal review to make sure that we're not doing anything that's against the law," he said. The district established a Regional Agreement ad hoc committee and received aid from Massachusetts Association of Regional Schools consultants Stephan Hemman and Jay Barry. MARS consults districts on creating regional agreements between towns. The towns that voted against the regional agreement wanted the vote for debt incurrence to be town-by-town rather than a popular vote. The concerns stem from the School Committee's 2019 decision to vote by popular vote for the approximately $72 million Wahconah Regional High School building project. "The [ad hoc] committee did work for a very long period of time, endless hours, and hashed everything out with the town people as well; however, that being said, I don't think it's a good idea to return the regional agreement and vote on it without addressing it again," said School Committee member Barbara Craft-Reiss. "I think it's almost a slap in the face, and I wouldn't support that at all. I think the community is telling us they want to talk about it more, and I think we have to respect the community." Fellow School Committee members agreed and voted during the December meeting to reconvene the ad hoc committee to adjust the draft based on the communities' comments. The committee was comprised of representatives from the seven towns and School Committee members. This new ad hoc committee would be composed of different people because most of the School Committee members involved have since left. The main issue in the agreement is Chapter 71, Section 14D, which outlines the methods for incurring debt. "The proposed regional agreement right now does have both methods of voting in it. And then the way it reads right now is that a town-by-town is the preferred method," Superintendent Leslie Blake-Davis said. "So, you could take that back to a regional ad hoc, and you could work on that language so that that language is more acceptable to some of the towns." Rather than starting over, the ad hoc committee can work on strengthening the language around a default voting method for incurring debt since that is the communities primary concern. Hinsdale Town Administrator Robert Graves emphasized the history behind the concerns some towns have regarding the proposed language for incurring debt. The concerns stem from a decision to vote by popular vote for the approximately $72 million Wahconah Regional High School building project. Most of the present members of the School Committee were not in office at the time of this vote in 2019. The vote in favor of the high school project was just over 51 percent of which more than half was from Dalton. Becket and Washington voted in favor but Cummington, Hinsdale, Peru, and Windsor voted against. Graves explained that some of the communities considered filing a lawsuit following the 2019 decision but didnt have the resources to do so. Communities have been urging the school district to work toward reducing its budget because district towns are also trying to improve infrastructure and road work, among other expenses, Graves said. So, when the vote for the new school came around, some people felt blindsided, he said. Graves highlighted the importance of looking at that history to prevent it from happening again in the future. Officials cut the ribbon in May for ServiceNet's new vocational farm on Crane Avenue in Pittsfield. Berkshire North Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Program celebrates its 50-year milestone with an open house at 510 North St. State Rep. John Barrett III joins Tamarack Hollow founders in breaking ground for a on a 900-square-foot educational center in Windsor. Construct's Executive Director Jane Ralph with design plans for affordable housing units at Cassilis Farm in New Marlborough. Berkshire United Way has been supporting the community for 100 years. PopCares, a cancer charity, celebrates raising a total of $1 million at it chicken dinner fundraiser. PreviousNext Berkshire Organizations Celebrate Sucessess, New Locations in 2024 Second Street Second Chances in Pittsfield celebrates renovated and expanded space to provide resources and training for people who've done their time and are trying to reintegrate into the community. PITTSFIELD, Mass. In 2024, Berkshire County organizations saw new locations and successes in their fields. Downtown Pittsfield saw some new tenants in fact, Downtown Pittsfield Inc. even relocated to North Street to be right on the pulse of activity. Last month, 1Berkshire announced that it had sold its property at 66 Allen St. after 12 years and will move to the second floor of Crawford Square on North Street. "It was not for lack of a fondness of the space. We love Central Station but like many other landlords, as we owned the building, we reached a point kind of post-pandemic where making those numbers with finding tenants and keeping commercial space full was becoming challenging," President and CEO Jonathan Butler said at the organization's annual meeting. "And as a nonprofit where that's not primary to our mission, we made the decision that moving on from owning our own real estate was probably the best move. We actually quickly were able to identify a buyer and closed in August." Moving into the space is another prominent local organization: the Elizabeth Freeman Center. In mid-December, the domestic violence program and rape crisis center moved its main office from 43 Francis Ave. to 66 Allen St. Its satellite offices at 168 Main St. in Great Barrington and 61 Main St. in North Adams will continue to operate as normal. The organization outgrew the former office's capacity and after months of searching for solutions, the EFC purchased the building with a mortgage from Lee Bank in August. "We are thrilled to take this step forward in our mission to serve survivors," Divya Chaturvedi, the new executive director, said in a press release. The center serves more than 4,000 survivors and their families every year and provides violence prevention/sex education to approximately 600 youth in Berkshire County schools. Berkshire United Way celebrated 100 years of service in April with hundreds of community members at the Colonial Theatre. The organization has operated under various names since its founding in 1924 but has stayed true to its mission of meeting peoples' greatest needs, from economic hardship support during the Great Depression to emergency funding during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was officially recognized as Berkshire United Way in 1984 after decades of service during the recovery from World War 1 in the 1920s, the Great Depression in the 1930s, World War 2 efforts of the 1940s, a baby boom in the 1950s, urban renewal in the 1960s, significant job loss at General Electric's Pittsfield plant in the 1970s, and the emergence of modern technology in the 1980s. The organization reached $1 million of campaign monies raised in the 1980s and met the $3 million mark at the turn of the century. It was a big year for ServiceNet, as it opened a new shelter in downtown Pittsfield and a farm. Smiles were all around in May as farmers, human service workers, and officials cut the ribbon on ServiceNet's new vocational farm on Crane Avenue. Whether it is planting flowers or growing fresh produce, the program is for "sowing seeds of hope" for those with developmental disabilities. "What Prospect Meadow Farm is about is changing lives," Vice President of Vocational Services Shawn Robinson said. "Giving people something meaningful to do, a community to belong to, a place to go every day and to make a paycheck, and again, I am seeing that every day from our first 17 farmhands the smiles on their faces. They're glad to be here. They're glad to be making money." The nonprofit human service agency closed on the former Jodi's Seasonal on Crane Avenue earlier in the year. It is an expansion of ServiceNet's first farm in Hatfield that has provided meaningful agricultural work, fair wages, and personal and professional growth to hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since opening in 2011. In February, ServiceNet's new 40-bed shelter at 21 Pearl St. opened. The Pearl has three dorms with bunk beds and en suite bathrooms, two recreation rooms, handicapped restrooms, and a laundry room. The former Eleanor Sonsini Animal Shelter saw new life in 2024 as No Paws Left Behind. The Sonsini shelter announced its closing in the summer of 2023 and manager Noelle Howland saved it by taking leadership. When the former Pittsfield location on Crane Avenue shut down at the end of August, Howland said space was a main need, specifically more room for outdoor and indoor kennels, a separate space for the cats not located in the office, and a meet-and-greet space. Nine months after its conception, the ribbon was cut on the new Have Hope Peer Recovery Center in North Adams. The Brien Center, the county's largest provider of mental health and substance abuse services, was awarded a five-year contract from the state Bureau of Substance and Addiction Services for the peer recovery support center. The $300,000 in funding comes from the federal Helping to End Addiction Long-term, or HEALing Communities study. The city is participating in the study which includes grassroots strategies to reduce addiction. "We all see this new center as a source of hope. Hope in and of itself is incredibly important in one's life," said M. Christine Macbeth, president and CEO of the Brien Center at Friday's gathering. "I'm so thrilled that it's part of the name. For years my computer screen used to say 'Keep hope alive.' When this name evolved, I was absolutely thrilled with that." PopCares, a nonprofit that provides support to local cancer patients, reached the $1 million mark in donations and returned to having its annual in-person chicken dinner fundraiser. It has helped more than 1,300 people in the last dozen years. Its donations help with bills, gas, travel to doctors and comforts during their worst times. All the funds raised by PopCares stay within the community. Another local cancer charity, the AYJ Fund, marked its 10th year in 2024. Over the past 10 years, the AYJ Fund has committed $1.3 million to research and helped in hosting the first conferences on gliomatosis cerebri, a rare brain cancer. The fund has also helped numerous local children and their families who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis through its programs. In September, the Berkshire North Women, Infants & Children Nutrition Program celebrated its 50-year milestone with an open house at 510 North St. A grant-funded program of Berkshire Health Systems, it currently serves 1,740 people from Central and Northern Berkshire County. "We are a staple in our community," Program Director Melissa King said. "We support nutritional foods for our participants but we also are a community partner. We make sure people that come in for our services are referred out to the community for other things they may need, whether it's childcare, heating, all of that stuff." The Berkshire North WIC has offices in Pittsfield and North Adams. The Pittsfield office has eight employees and has been located in the 510 building for about five years. NAMI of Berkshire County marks 40 years supporting mental health in the community. NAMI Berkshire County, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, celebrated 40 years of breaking down stigmas and supporting mental health in September. The 40th anniversary also came with change, as Paul Johansen was hired as the new executive director and the nonprofit moved to an office space at 141 North St., Suite 301 in downtown Pittsfield. Johansen said he finds it important and rewarding work because mental illness cuts across all barriers, affecting all types of people regardless of factors such as race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic class. In October, Second Streets Second Chances cut the ribbon on a larger and revitalized space at the former Berkshire County Jail and House of Correction. Established in 2022, "2nd Street" has assisted more than 1,000 individuals with medical and mental health, housing, job training, legal services, and more. "This milestone is not just a reflection of the crucial services and the need for these services in our community but also a testament to the compassionate, non-judgmental care that our staff here delivers to each and every one of the people that walk through our doors," Executive Director Lindsay Cornwell said. The nonprofit's space has expanded from 1,500 square feet to 4,600 square feet, with two community navigator offices in the "rotunda" or main area, an office for private meetings, a large room used for workshops and meetings, and common spaces. Sheriff Thomas Bowler said the numbers speak for themselves, comparing the program's 11 percent recidivism rate to the county's 36 percent. He emphasized the importance of having supports in place immediately upon release from jail. In the mountains of Windsor, Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center in August broke ground on a 900-square-foot educational center with a full foundation and a composting toilet. Aimee Gelinas and Daniel Cohen have led hikes and other programming at Tamarack Hollow for more than a decade. The upcoming educational center, staged for completion in 2026, will create new opportunities to connect people with the natural world and the folklore traditions that honor it. The conservation and educational nonprofit's mission is to educate about the diverse natural and cultural world through programs for all ages that inspire stewardship of natural, and cultural resources. With two full-time staff, it serves more than 5,000 people per year. "We strive to inspire environmental and cultural awareness, appreciation, and stewardship by providing meaningful and engaging year-round educational opportunities for the public through diverse hands-on learning opportunities that connect people's culture and place," Gelinas explained. "Our mission is to educate the public about the importance of stewarding our natural world, as well as folkloric traditions from world cultures that intrinsically connect music with the rhythms of the natural world. Through awareness and appreciation of the environment and diverse cultures, we can better understand each other and ourselves." Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires in May honored seven individuals who have gone above and beyond in their nonprofit work: Jess Vecchia, Kate Barton, Jude Wesselman, Noelia Salinetti, Brenda Petell, Karen Richards, and Chris Melski. The event at the Kripalu Center was described as the "Oscars for the Nonprofits." During the ceremony, NPC founder Liana Toscanini and state Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier helped distribute the awards and House and Senate citations. In New Marlborough, more than a thousand visitors toured the decked-out halls of Cassilis Farm in support of the affordable housing development. Construct Inc. held its first Designer Showcase exhibition in the Gilded Age estate throughout the month of June, showcasing over a dozen creatives' work through temporary room transformations themed to "Nature in the Berkshires." The event supported the nonprofit's effort to convert the property into 11 affordable housing units. Two years ago Construct, with help from the New Marlborough Housing Development Committee, purchased the 27-acre farm at auction with $217,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds. The nearly $7.4 million fundraising goal was more than 80 percent met at the time of the showcase. This includes over $2 million from Federal Home Loan Bank Boston's Affordable Housing Competitive Funding Program, in partnership with Greylock Federal Credit Union. The housing development project is a response to Berkshire County's housing crisis, with a 2020 report stating that New Marlborough has no affordable housing and businesses are struggling with staff shortages. Full occupancy is anticipated in 2026 after an overhaul of the estate into units between 850 and 1,400 square feet. While tiger sharks are known to be hardy, a marine biologist warns it's what happens after they are dragged onto land that poses the biggest welfare concern. Two Aussies who reeled in a 3.5-metre tiger shark have been celebrated for their efforts by fishing enthusiasts. Following a 90-minute battle at one of Victorias most popular holiday beaches, the men celebrated by taking a series of celebratory shots with the ocean giant before they released it. But after reviewing the pictures from Lakes Entrance, a leading marine biologist has singled out a detail that indicates the hardy predator could have been injured on the beach. Lawrence Chlebeck from Humane Society International doesnt think the catching of the fish alone would have caused the problem. Theyre a robust species, he told Yahoo News. Chlebeck explained that even if theyre caught on drumlines used by state government shark control programs, they rarely die, even when hooked for hours. Thats in contrast to hammerhead sharks which frequently die within 12 hours of being caught and released. However, when you pull an animal out of the water whose body has evolved to always be buoyant, it can lead to internal injuries organ crushing. These are the types of things that kill beached whales and dolphins and its a very traumatic experience, Chlebeck added. The fishermen spent 90 minutes reeling in the shark. Source: MAD Outdoors Sale What particularly concerns Chlebeck is when fishermen extend the time sharks are kept out of the water so they can take photos with their trophies. While Chlebeck doesnt condone shark fishing, he believes its important to get sharks back in the water as soon as possible when they are hooked. ADVERTISEMENT One of his biggest concerns is when fishermen choose to sit on them and take selfies. Although the practice may seem harmless, he argues there is evidence it can compound the pressure on the sharks organs. If youre adding weight on top of that, youre just making things worse, he said. Similar concerns have been raised about dolphin shows in Asia and the Middle East, where the animals are pulled out of the water for selfies with tourists, or even stood upon by trainers. MP fights back against criticism of shark catch The shark was caught at Lakes Entrance during peak holiday season. The fishermen told Channel 9 they had not intended to catch a tiger shark and had instead been hoping to reel in a bronze whaler. "Over the years we have heard of the odd tiger shark getting caught down here, but it's definitely not something we were targeting," one said. A colleague of theirs added, "[We] swam it out to about chest height in the water and once it got its bearings, it was happy enough and just swam out on its own." ADVERTISEMENT The fishermen have been contacted for comment. The photo sparked fierce debate online with animal welfare advocates arguing tiger sharks are not toys to be played with on the beach. Imagine the stress the animal is under, another person wrote. Federal Nationals MP Darren Chester promoted the catch on his Facebook page, immediately attracting controversy. He described the shark as a beauty and spent time on the weekend dismissing criticism of the fishermens behaviour. One man claimed Chester had lost his vote for promoting infantile behaviour that could have harmed the shark or the fishermen. The MP shot back quipping, Everyone enjoys a good dose of sanctimony to start the New Year. He then added that he doubted the critic would have voted for him in the first place. ADVERTISEMENT Chester appeared perplexed by the hate, claiming the shark was safely released and that fishing is a legitimate and enjoyable pastime. Keyboard warriors are a fact of life in 2025. The simple fact that two mates unexpectedly caught a huge shark, took a photo and released it seems lost on some of the haters, he claimed. Chester's office was contacted for comment by Yahoo, but he was unavailable to speak further on the matter. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. Saturday 4 January 2025, 18:23 - Last updated: 7 January, 10:37 The world of cinema is in mourning after the tragic loss of Jeff Baena, a celebrated American director and screenwriter known for his distinctive indie films such as Joshy and The Little Hours. Baena was found dead at his Los Angeles home on Friday, January 3, leaving the film community and his fans shocked and grieving. The Life and Career of Oscar-Winning Director Paolo Sorrentino Cause of his death released Jeff Baena was 47 years old. Since 2021, he had been married to actress and producer Aubrey Plaza, which had been scheduled to be a presenter at Sunday nights Golden Globe Awards but did not attend. They had been a couple since 2011. Director Brady Corbet acknowledged the tragedy at the event, when he accepting an award for The Brutalist. He was found deceased last week at his home in Los Angeles. US media cite law enforcement sources stating that Baena's body was found lifeless by an assistant who called the police, according to the gossip site TMZ. Then the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the hypothesis: he died by suicide, according to CNN. This is an unimaginable tragedy, the actor and Baenas family said in a joint statement shared with media on Monday. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time. His biography Born on June 29, 1977, in Miami, Florida, after graduating from New York University Film School, Baena moved to Los Angeles to start his career in Hollywood. He became a production assistant for director Robert Zemeckis, working on several films, then worked as an editing assistant for screenwriter and director David O. Russell. Baena's breakthrough came when he co-wrote 'I Heart Huckabees' (2004) with Russell. The film, nominated for the Gotham Award for Best Film, followed two 'existential detectives' trying to solve the meaning of a series of strange coincidences. Baena made his directorial debut with 'Life After Beth' (2014), which he also wrote. The film, starring Aubrey Plaza in the lead role, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival that same year, where it received a nomination for the Grand Jury Prize and was released in theaters by A24. His next project, 'Joshy' (2016), starring Thomas Middleditch, also debuted at the Sundance Film Festival with a nomination for the Grand Jury Prize before being released by Lionsgate. Baena also wrote and directed the film 'The Little Hours' (2017), starring Plaza and nominated for the Audience Award at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, and co-wrote, directed, and produced 'Horse Girl' (2020), starring Dave Franco and Allison Brie. Both films also premiered at Sundance. He then co-wrote and directed the romantic comedy 'Spin Me Round' (2022), starring Brie and Plaza. Regarding television, Baena created, directed, and produced 'Cinema Toast' (2021). The Showtime anthology series assembled footage from films that are now in the public domain. Brie, Christina Ricci, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, and Jake Johnson were among the show's stars. Married since 2021, Jeff Baena and Aubrey Plaza began dating in 2011 after working together on several films. This fact strengthened their relationship, as confessed by the actress herself. 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 Armie Hammer is set to play the lead role in Uwe Bolls upcoming thriller The Dark Knight. Despite sharing a title, the movie is unrelated to Christopher Nolans 2008 Batman film that starred Christian Bale and Heath Ledger. However, the plot does appear to share some similarities with the superhero film. According to Variety, Hammer will play a character named Sanders who takes justice into his own hands when he starts hunting down local criminals. His crusade makes him a public hero and a social media sensation, but a police chief sees him as a menace to society and sets out to take him down. The 38-year-olds career was derailed several years ago by a series of sexual accusations, and earlier this month he blamed Covid and kink-shaming for the fallout. In 2021, direct messages allegedly sent from Hammer were made public detailing graphic sexual desires and cannibalistic fetishism. Armie Hammer is set to play the lead role in Uwe Bolls upcoming thriller The Dark Knight ( Getty Images, ) Several women later accused the actor of sexual assault and he was subsequently accused of rape and abuse by ex-girlfriend Effie Angelova. Hammer has consistently denied any criminal wrongdoing and said that all of his relationships with women were consensual. In May 2023, the LA County District Attorneys Office announced it would not file sexual assault charges, citing insufficient evidence and the complexity of the relationship. He has since shared his financial struggles, admitting he sold his truck because he couldnt afford the petrol. The world seemed like it was falling apart, and people were just deeply unhappy with their own lives, Hammer said on the Your Moms House podcast about the news breaking during the Covid lockdown. And then this salacious story comes around where this actor wants to murder and eat people. And all of a sudden, everyones like, Oh, this is so much more fun to focus on than the fact that I cant leave my living room. Speaking about this sexual preferences, Hammer suggested that kink-shaming could have been at play in the backlash he received about his alleged sexual fantasies. 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 If anyone took anyones bedroom conversations specifically if people were having a little bit of sexy time, and they took the s*** that they said, even if it was completely vanilla, and you read that somewhere else out of context, everyones going to go, You guys are f***ing disgusting. he said. The actor said that the volume of private messages made public made him feel like he was left standing there naked in front of the world with all of your proclivities or kinks being judged by the world. Describing his relationship to women, he said: People were my bags of dope with skin on it. He hinted that he understood why he would be disliked as he added: I would scoop these girls up, take them on a whirlwind month and a half... then Im going bounce and go do it with someone else. Going further to expand on his sexual inclinations, he said: I like the idea that you are so completely mine. Yeah. I can do whatever I want, and you love it because you know youre mine. Hammer has since embraced the cannibal label. This possession-kinda thing, he continued, thats just fun to talk about. And by the way, especially if youre drunk or stoned or high at night and youre texting. While youre saying it, youre chuckling to yourself, like, Im going to f***ing cut your toe off and keep it in my pocket so I got a piece of you everywhere I go. Hayley-Anne Hill is an experienced snake catcher but now lives with long-term affects of snake venom. As a snake catcher waited in "excruciating pain" for paramedics to arrive after being bitten by a highly venomous red-bellied black snake, she kicked herself for the one mistake she made. And as many in the industry tell Yahoo News that there are more and more snake interactions occurring in towns and cities across the country, Aussies can learn from the experienced snake catcher's error. Hayley-Anne Hill had successfully rescued the snake from a school in Kuranda, Queensland, and confessed her "mind wasn't on the job" when she was relocating it hours later. She placed her hand in the wrong place and that's all it took. "I just felt this nip on my finger and I thought, 'bloody hell, I've been bitten'. I looked down and saw the blood," she said. Alone, she was forced to remain calm and administer first-aid on herself at the side of the road. For two long hours, she waited there for paramedics, feeling the searing hot venom pulse through her arm. ADVERTISEMENT "The pain started within what, the first 10 seconds. My hand swelled up like a balloon. I didn't feel like I was going to vomit but the pain felt like somebody had grabbed a great big iron pole and it was hot, really hot, and it was being smashed into my arm," she said. The one mistake Aussies are being urged not to make Hayley-Anne confessed she simply put her hand in the wrong place and was "very complacent". "I had my hand under where he was, and that's all it took... I don't want to put a fear into people because it was my own stupidity," she explained. The fear of unfairly demonising the reptiles was why she decided to not share her experience, which happened a few years ago, until now. The rise in snake interactions encouraged her to speak up. "I get looked upon as outrageous and eccentric, I've got a load of tattoos. I don't get heard a lot because of that and that's why I want to be a voice for snakes because they get exactly what I get," she said. Hayley-Anne has lost her sense of smell and has permanent nerve damage in her fingers. Source: Facebook/Miss Hiss Reptiles Snake catchers reporting 'a lot more' snake encounters Cory Kerewaro, a snake catcher based in Sydney's MacArthur area, told Yahoo News there have "definitely been a lot more people that are interacting with snakes" and education about how to behave around them is vital to ensuring the safety for both the person and snake. ADVERTISEMENT "I think social media has a lot to do with it. There's more people like myself trying to raise awareness and educate, but I think people see us catchers handle snakes and think it looks easy, but they don't see the 20 years of experience we have," he explained. With an increase in snake sightings and interactions, there has ultimately been an increase in snake bites. Cory has been called to a handful of separate incidents this snake season where the resident has been bitten. Even when they're doing the right thing, bites can happen. He spoke of a woman who "felt something tap on the side of her leg" in Picton in New South Wales. As she looked down, she realised it was a brown snake and she had been bitten. Another man was doing yard work when a red-bellied black snake "lunged at his hand" as he reached for a piece of wood. Snake catchers are reporting more snake interactions in Australia. Source: Australia Zoo & Cory Kerewaro Thankfully, both incidents resulted in a full recovery as neither were envenomated after being bitten. However, it does show how easily bites can happen. ADVERTISEMENT Cory attended a job recently where a highly venomous brown snake was picked up and placed in a container for easy collection. "They really shouldnt be doing this," he said. Snake catcher swears by $25 safety hack Three years on from her snake bite, Hayley-Anne still lives with the nerve damage in her finger and "can't smell" a common side effect experienced after being bitten by a red-bellied black snake. She believes every Aussie household should get a $25 smart pressure bandage which works wonders if someone is bitten by a snake. "I suggest everyone in Australia should keep smart pressure bandages. They cost you $25 and you can use them on yourself and your animals if they're bitten. They're brilliant," she said. "If you apply first aid to any snake bite, you're going to be OK as long as you apply that first aid quickly and get to hospital as quickly as possible." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. 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 Aubrey Plaza has shared a statement for the first time since the death of her husband Jeff Baena last week, at the age of 47. Baena died by suicide on Friday (3 January) in his Los Angeles home near the Hollywood Hills and Los Feliz areas, according to the Los Angeles County Coroners Office. A joint statement from Aubrey Plaza and the Baena / Stern family shared with The Independent reads: This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time. Baena achieved recognition when he co-wrote the 2004 film I Heart Huckabees with director David ORussell, receiving a Gotham Award nomination for Best Feature. Among his other credits were the films Life After Beth (2014), The Little Hours (2017) and the Netflix movie Horse Girl (2020). He and Plaza began dating in 2011 and married 10 years later. Aubrey Plaza with Jeff Baena at the Sundance Festival in 2014 ( Alamy/PA ) In an interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Plaza recalled how they were living together during lockdown amid the Covid pandemic when she realized it was their 10-year anniversary. After joking that they could get married to celebrate, Plaza found a website called OneHourMarriage.com and asked if the officiant could come to their home. Baena then went to get a food delivery while Plaza went over the road to her neighbor, Dandelion a practicing witch to ask if she could do a spell for her. She went into her house, rummaged around, came out with a rosemary wreath and I created a very quick love altar in my yard, Plaza recalled. 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 And then the man from [the marriage website] showed up in a Hawaiian shirt with a briefcase. I cant remember a lot of it, it was fuzzy. But Im pretty sure its legal. Plaza starred in Baenas horror-comedy film Life After Beth, which was nominated for Sundances Grand Jury Prize. They worked together again on the medieval dark comedy The Little Hours, starring husband-and-wife Alison Brie and Dave Franco. In 2020, Brie and Plaza co-starred again in the biggest commercial hit of Baenas career, Horse Girl, which follows an introverted young woman whose dreams slowly start to take over her reality. Baenas most recent film Spin Me Round, premiered in 2022 and also starred Plaza and Brie. During the 2025 Golden Globes, which were held on January 5, two days after Baenas death, The Brutalist director Brady Corbet shared his condolences with Plaza and Baenas family while accepting the award for Best Director Motion Picture. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you. 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 Johnny Depp has been forced to step in and issue a warning to his fans due to a rise in social media scams. The Pirates of the Caribbean star shared a post on Monday (6 January), telling his Instagram followers that scammers are intensifying their efforts to target my fans and supporters. His new statement follows a similar one made in 2022 back when the actor was more of an online presence. In his latest post, Depp, who recently appeared on a list naming the celebrities most commonly misused in scams, wrote: As part of their tactics, they create multiple, deceptive social media and email accounts impersonating me and members of my team. The 61-year-old also addressed the dangers of AI, stating: Today, AI can create the illusion of my face and voice. Scammers may look and sound just like the real me. However, he assured his fans that neither I, nor my team, will ask you for money or your personal information. We are actively working to combat these illicit schemes, he said, before laying down some truths for the protection and awareness of my fans. open image in gallery Johnny Depp says scammers are intensifying their efforts to target my fans and supporters ( Getty Images for The Red Sea Int ) The actor revealed that he has official accounts on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, alerting fans to the fact that he is not active on X/Twitter, Snapchat or Discord. He also said that he does not interact directly with fans on any social media platform or via email, or via chat-based platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, Signal or Zangi. 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 Depp also stated that he does not offer paid meetings, phone calls, club memberships, or fan cards, adding: If you are ever asked for any money for a meeting, call, membership, or fan card, it is a scam. He ended the statement: Again, neither myself, my team, my agent, nor my family will ever contact you on my behalf asking for money or your personal information. open image in gallery Johnny Depp takes action after rise in online scams of people pretending to be him ( Instagram ) In July 2024, money saving expert Martin Lewis analysed data from Action Fraud, looking at how frequently public figures, including Depp, Elon Musk and Adele, were mentioned in scams reported in 2022 and 2023. Lewis went on to say that the amount of data his website analysed is likely only a drop in the ocean, considering that many people do not report scams to the police. If someone believes they have been scammed, they should contact their bank and the police. 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 David Fincher has revealed secrets from behind the scenes of his 1995 thriller Se7en as its re-released in an eye-popping new remastered edition. Speaking to The Independent, the filmmaker discussed some of the actors he initially hoped to cast in the film, poured cold water on a long-standing rumour about its shocking ending, and his memories of how Denzel Washington was initially approached to star in the movie. Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt ultimately led the film as Detectives Somerset and Mills, who are tasked with investigating a serial killer modelling his crimes after the seven deadly sins. Gwyneth Paltrow was cast as Millss doomed wife Tracy, while Kevin Spacey starred as the killer John Doe. All four parties collide in the films famed climax, which has birthed a particular urban legend linking Se7en with Steven Soderberghs 2011 pandemic thriller Contagion. *Spoiler warning* Before you read any further, be aware that this article discusses the final scenes of Se7en and a specific plot point in Contagion. In the famed scene, Somerset and Mills are confronted with a cardboard box. While we never see the contents of the box, we soon learn that it contains Tracys severed head. Despite the fact that the head is never actually shown on-screen, internet sleuths have long claimed that a dummy of Paltrows head was still made during production, and that years later it was re-used for a scene in Contagion in which Paltrows deceased character whose illness kicks off a pandemic has her head cut open and examined by a medical examiner. That is entirely untrue, Fincher explained. But its amusing! The one in Contagion is amazing, but [the rumour] is entirely untrue. Fincher clarified that while the box used in the Se7en scene contained strands of blonde hair, to match Paltrows own, an actual prosthetic of Paltrows head was never made. open image in gallery Heads up: Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Pitt in David Finchers Se7en ( Shutterstock ) The filmmaker, whose credits also include Fight Club, Gone Girl and The Social Network, added that the notoriously bleak ending to Se7en contributed to the film becoming one of the lowest-testing movies in history but only, he believes, because the test audiences asked to watch an early cut of the movie had been missold the film. In defence of this incredibly lame screening, when I got to the theatre where it was playing, I said, Id like to see the materials that you used to canvas the audience thats going to be seeing this movie for the first time tonight, he recalled. And they handed me this [leaflet] that read, Would you like to see Morgan Freeman (Driving Miss Daisy) and Brad Pitt (Legends of the Fall) in a new thriller? And it was the single worst way to bait the hook for this movie that I could possibly imagine. 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 Fincher continued: Se7en has nothing to do with Driving Miss Daisy or Legends of the Fall! Se7en is an affront to that kind of cinema, which is the cinema of reassurance. The Oscar-winning Driving Miss Daisy, released in 1989, explored the friendship between an elderly Jewish woman (Jessica Tandy) and her Black chauffeur (Freeman). Legends of the Fall, meanwhile, is an epic love story from 1994 in which Pitt plays one of three brothers coming of age in the Montana wilderness. In the same interview with The Independent, Fincher also recalled many of the actors who were attached to the film before Freeman and Pitt jumped on board. Most famously, Denzel Washington confirmed in 2012 that he rejected a role in the film and that it was one of his biggest professional regrets. He did not elaborate on why he turned down the movie. And now, Fincher said that he doesnt know why Washington said no to the film, either as the offer was made to the star long before Fincher himself was recruited to direct. open image in gallery Actor Denzel Washington this month, and Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman in 1995s Se7en ( Getty/Shutterstock ) Denzels manager ended up being a producer on Se7en but I think it was kind of a bait and switch, Fincher recalled. It was like, if I produce the film, you can get Denzel. Fincher continued: I was told that Denzel had read the script, didnt like it, and that the script was then rewritten, like, 10 or 11 times to suit him. It was rewritten ad nauseam, ad infinitum, in an attempt to get Denzel to say yes. But by the time I got involved, Denzel had long passed. The filmmaker added that Al Pacino was another actor who turned Se7en down, among others. Almost everybody that I sent it to originally also passed, Fincher said. I sent it to Ned Beatty to play John Doe, and he wouldnt even consider it. I was interested in Gene Hackman, and I met with him for about 20 minutes and Gene said, I dont shoot nights. I said, its been lovely meeting you, Im a huge fan, but half the movie takes place at night theres no changing that. Almost everyone thought that the film was far too ghoulish to deal with, he said. Fincher was speaking to The Independent in celebration of a new 4K re-release of the classic film, a years-in-the-making task overseen by Fincher himself and sourced from the original camera negative. Ive done the DVD version of Se7en, which was the 720p, Ive done the 1080p version of Se7en, which was the HD version, and now the 4k [remaster], he said. They truly are different mediums. There are things that you can see in high dynamic range and 4K that you cant see on film. And so [revisiting the film] becomes a very tricky thing to do. Almost surgical. The goal was to restore the movie to how it looked in its very first inception, with the exact contrast, film grain and colours that Fincher intended before it went to cinemas. I could have worked on this thing for three years, comfortably, he added. The art is knowing when to stop. It was expensive and and a lot of people were asking, Why is this [cost] so high? And I kept saying, Because its not the 4k version, we are ostensibly remaking the negative. The movie, which grossed more than $300m (239m) worldwide, will also be released in IMAX cinemas in London this month. Tickets can be bought 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 Viewers of the new ITV drama Playing Nice have branded the show as nonsense and unbelievable after finding holes in the plot. The series, based on a novel by JP Delaney, follows two families navigating the total upending of their domestic lives when they find out that an administrative error at the hospital led to their babies being accidentally switched at birth. Starring James Norton and Niamh Algar as one couple, Pete and Maddie, and James McArdle and Jessica Brown Findlay as the other parents, Miles and Lucy, the show sees relations between the two families descend into chaos and deceit. Though the plot sounds plausible as baby mix-ups do happen as the show progresses, the storyline becomes increasingly improbable. Viewers have been picking holes in the plot, such as the moment when the two couples are allowed to meet and drink prosecco without a third-party mediator from the authorities or hospital present. I cannot believe for a second that both couples would just be allowed to meet one another without professional mediation or supervision. Have the hospital authorities just shared addresses and told them to get on with it? wrote one viewer on X/Twitter, AS IF THEY ARE HAVING BUBBLY, I think a cup of Tetley wouldve been more appropriate in this situation, said one viewer, as another added: Surely the two couples wouldnt be introduced or their details shared, for legal reasons. Would they? 15 minutes into #PlayingNice and what an absolute load of nonsense this is already, concluded another. James Norton in Playing Nice ( BBC ) However, others have been gripped by the drama, with one viewer writing: As unrealistic as it is, #PlayingNice is a bit good. Miles is a complete weirdo but theres gonna be a big twist at one point. 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 Binged all of @ITVXs #PlayingNice and it is fantastic! So glad it ended the way it did because Ive never felt such hatred for a certain character before! The show has been critically panned, withThe Independents TV critic Nick Hilton calling the series a whiplash-inducing, overripe shock fest in his two-star review. Norton who seems trapped on ITV when, by rights, he should be a movie star provides a lacklustre performance, while Algar is offered little more than the opportunity to look worried, writes Hilton. 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. Meanwhile, The Guardians Rachel Aroesti called the thriller mind-bendingly bad, adding that its the worst of modern television: a witless mystery overly reliant on insidious ambience and really nice houses. 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 RuPaul has spoken out regarding the death of RuPauls Drag Race UK winner, The Vivienne. On Monday (January 6) the television show host turned to Instagram to share a photo of him and James Lee Williams following their death, which was first announced on Sunday (January 5). In addition to winning the first season of Drag Race UK, they placed third on the 2023 edition of Dancing On Ice. With a broken heart, I join the entire Drag Race universe in mourning the loss of The Viviennean incredibly talented queen and a lovely human being, RuPaul captioned the post. The news of the 32-year-olds death was first revealed by their publicist, Simon Jones, who shared a statement on social media. It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams The Vivienne, has passed this weekend, Jones said. James was an incredibly loved, warm-hearted, and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother, and uncle. The statement continued: They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. Jones concluded: We please ask that Jamess family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve. The Vivenne won the first season of Drag Race UK ( Getty Images ) In a separate post, he said these were words he never wanted to write, adding: No one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other. Im so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last five years. Jones continued: Its 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. In addition to RuPaul, other notable figures shared tributes following The Viviennes death. RuPauls Drag Race UK judge Michelle Visage said The Vivienne was a beacon to so many who was always laughing and would be so missed. 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 You were a beacon to so many. Im the lucky one to have known you and to have laughed together with you so many times, Visage said. RuPauls Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash was also among those posting messages on the official announcement, writing in an Instagram comment: Im so sorry Im in total shock. Ariana Grande shared a tribute post from drag performer Jinkx Monsoon to her Instagram Stories along with three heart emojis. I dont entirely have words, Jinkx Monsoon wrote in her post. She has made her mark in our hearts and on her stages. Its too soon for a curtain call but I know its a standing ovation. I love you Viv. The police had also gone on to issue a statement following the drag stars death to confirm that officers attended an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester, at 12:22 p.m. on Sunday following reports of a sudden death. 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, a spokesperson told The Independent. 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 Chinese documentary filmmaker has been sentenced to over three years in prison for producing a documentary on Chinas crackdown on nationwide protests against the Covid lockdown in 2023, according to Chinese human rights news websites. Chen Pinlin, who is known by his stage name Plato, was first detained on 29 November 2023 and was formally arrested on 5 January 2024 by the Shanghai police for releasing his documentary Urumqi Middle Road on the one-year anniversary of the White Paper Movement. The White Paper Movement or Blank Paper Revolution was a series of protests that emerged in China in late 2022 during which thousands of demonstrators displayed blank sheets of paper a symbol of censorship - to express their frustration against the countrys strict "zero-Covid" policy. The protests were sparked by the outrage over a deadly apartment fire in Urumqi, Xinjiang, in November 2022. The incident reportedly led to deaths that many blamed on Covid lockdown measures that hindered escape and rescue efforts. Pinlin was held in Baoshan Detention Centre in Shanghai on charges of picking quarrels and provoking trouble a charge criticised as vague and elastic that authorities use to suppress dissent and maintain social control. The Chinese human rights news website Weiquanwang said it was learned that he was sentenced to 3 years and 6 months in prison. Chen Pinlin, who has been arrested for more than a year, has been treated extremely inhumanely in the detention centre, it said on Tuesday. open image in gallery File Chinese policemen pin down a protester and covered his mouth during a protest on a street in Shanghai, China on 27 Nov 2022 The sentencing was first reported by CNN which cited sources familiar with the case. It said that his sentencing came following a three-hour trial behind closed doors. Another human rights news website Minsheng Guancha reported that the first trial of the case was heard in the Baoshan District Court of Shanghai on Monday. Pinlin released the documentary, named Not the Foreign Force in English on YouTube and X, formerly Twitter, which were not available in China in late November 2023. The documentary showed the original videos shot on his mobile phone of the protest against the stringent lockdown. The footage showed people chanting slogans demanding that president Xi Jinping step down. open image in gallery Protesters hold up blank pieces of paper and chant slogans as they march to protest strict anti-virus measures in Beijing ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Releasing the documentary he said: I hope to explore why, whenever internal conflicts arise in China, foreign forces are always made the scapegoat. The answer is clear to everyone: the more the government misleads, forgets, and censors, the more we must speak up, remind others, and remember. Only by remembering the ugliness can we strive toward the light. I also hope that China will one day embrace its own light and future. The protests were a brief flare of defiance, the most direct challenge to the Communist Partys authority in decades. Videos of the protest spread online and gained momentum among those unhappy with the states control. In the following days, thousands gathered in Shanghai and over a dozen other cities across China, holding up sheets of paper, shouting slogans and jostling with officers. The protests were a result of frustration and anger over Mr Xis tough new approach to governance that included strict, large-scale lockdowns, mass testing, quarantine measures, and heavy restrictions as the virus spread globally. The lockdown was itself blamed for the number of deaths and accidents in the country. In 2021, a bus carrying people to a Guizhou quarantine centre crashed, killing 27 in a province where Covid-related deaths since the pandemic began had been just two. A month later, thousands of workers in an Apple iPhone factory in Zhengzhou clashed with riot police and tore down Covid barricades. There were further outbreaks of violence after reports of more deaths due to the lockdown, including a three-year-old child and a baby. And the anger reached its peak after 10 residents in Urumqi died in a fire in an apartment building that had been under lockdown for 100 days. Officials appeared to blame residents for not doing enough to control the blaze. 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 powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the foothills of the Himalayas near one of Tibets holiest cities on Tuesday, killing at least 126 people and flattening hundreds of houses and causing tremors felt in Nepal, Bhutan and India. Many others were injured and trapped as dozens of aftershocks shook the remote region. Rescue workers climbed mounds of broken bricks, some using ladders in heavily damaged villages, as they searched for survivors. Videos posted by Chinas ministry of emergency management showed two people being carried on stretchers by workers treading over the debris from collapsed homes. The earthquake, which struck at 9.05am local time, was centred in Tibets Tingri County known as the northern gateway to the Everest region at a depth of about 10km, the US Geological Survey (USGS) reported. Chinese president Xi Jinping said all-out search and rescue efforts should be carried out to minimise casualties, properly resettle the affected people, and ensure a safe and warm winter. open image in gallery Nepalese people rushed out of their homes after feeling the earthquake in Kathmandu ( AP ) The impact of the powerful earthquake was felt across the Shigatse region of Tibet, one of the holiest sites in Buddhism which is home to 800,000 people. The region is administered by Shigatse city, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism. Many homes in Shigatse city were reduced to rubble, a video released by Tibet Fire and Rescue showed. Other videos showed crumbled shops in the nearby town of Lhatse, with debris spilling out onto the road. Mount Everest sightseeing tours in Tingri, where foreign climbers come to prepare for their ascent, were cancelled for Tuesday morning, according to a tourism staff member who spoke to local media. They also confirmed that the sightseeing area had been completely closed. About 150 aftershocks were recorded in nine hours after the earthquake. More than 1,500 firefighters and rescue workers have been dispatched to the affected areas, Chinas Xinhua news agency said. In the worst-hit Tingri County, where the temperature was expected to drop to -18C by the evening, rescuers raced to find survivors. Some 22,000 items, including tents, coats, quilts and folding beds have also been sent, Xinhua said. open image in gallery Nepalese people stand after rushing out of their homes after experiencing an earthquake in Kathmandu ( AP ) Tibet is part of China, but many Tibetans loyalties lie with the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader who has lived in exile in India since a failed anti-Chinese uprising in 1959. Western governments and human rights organisations have repeatedly accused the Chinese government of abuses in Tibet, where it has cracked down on dissent while investing heavily in economic development. The Dalai Lama said he was deeply saddened. I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured, the Nobel peace laureate said in a message. The quake woke residents in Nepals capital of Kathmandu, about 140 miles from the epicentre, and sent them running into the streets. On the southwest edge of Kathmandu, a video showed water spilling out into the street from a pond in a courtyard with a small temple. It is a big earthquake, a woman could be heard saying. People are all shaking. Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) said the tremors were felt in seven hill districts bordering Tibet. So far we have not received any information of any loss of life and property, NDRRMA spokesperson Dizan Bhattarai told Reuters. We have mobilised police, security forces and local authorities to collect information, he said. open image in gallery The epicentre was recorded around 110 miles southwest of Shigatse, Tibet ( EPA ) The epicentre was located where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates clashed and caused uplifts in the Himalayan mountains strong enough to change the heights of some of the worlds tallest peaks. About 6,900 people live in three townships and 27 villages within 12 miles of the epicentre on the Chinese side, state media said. The average altitude in the area is about 4,200 metres (13,800ft), the Chinese earthquake centre said in a social media post. There have been 10 earthquakes of at least magnitude-6 in the area where Tuesdays quake hit over the past century, the USGS said. In November 2023, a magnitude-5.6 earthquake shook northwestern Nepal, killing at least 138 people and injuring dozens. In 2015, a magnitude-7.8 quake struck near Kathmandu in Nepal, killing about 9,000 people and injuring thousands in that countrys worst earthquake A huge quake in Sichuan province in southwestern China in 2008 killed almost 70,000 people. 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 Kim Jong Un warned that North Koreas rivals could not ignore its new hypersonic ballistic missile, which was tested while US secretary of state Antony Blinken was visiting South Korea on Monday. He said the new missile system would reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region without naming chief rival, America, or neighbours South Korea and Japan. The missile was fired from a suburb in the capital Pyongyang and flew 1500km at about 12 times the speed of sound, the Korean Central News Agency reported on Tuesday. It attained two different peaks of 99.8km and 42.5km before striking a sea target. South Korean and Japanese military forces had confirmed the launch soon after the missile splashed down in the Sea of Japan. The range of the intermediate missile was enough to hit American military bases in Guam, the agency noted. The performance of our latest intermediate hypersonic missile system cannot be ignored worldwide, and the system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier, Mr Kim, who oversaw the test through a monitoring system, said. This is a clear achievement and a special event in strengthening the self-defensive capabilities of which we should be proud. open image in gallery North Koreas missile test coincides with Antony Blinkens visit to South Korea ( KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty ) The missiles engine reportedly used a new compound of carbon fibre, a significant technological development for Pyongyang if confirmed. Carbon fibre is lighter and stronger than other aerospace materials such as aluminium, but far more difficult to manufacture. North Koreas first missile launch of 2025 coincided with Mr Blinkens visit to Seoul, where he pledged bilateral and trilateral cooperation, including Japan, to respond to Pyongyangs growing military threats. "Todays launch is just a reminder to all of us of how important our collaborative work is," the secretary said, condemning the launch. open image in gallery Kim Jong Un oversees the missile test with his daughter ( KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty ) Following North Koreas confirmation of the launch, a South Korean military spokesperson raised doubts over the hypersonic missiles capabilities and suspected Russias assistance in developing the weapons system with carbon fibre technology. Lee Sung Joon, a spokesperson for South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff, said they believed the North was exaggerating the capabilities of the system. He claimed the missile covered less distance than claimed, and that there was no second peak. Mr Lee said the test was likely a follow-up to a intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile test last April and claimed that it would be difficult to use such systems in a relatively small territory like the Korean Peninsula. 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 South Koreas transport minister is resigning because he feels heavy responsibility for the Jeju Air crash that killed 179 people last month. A Jeju Air aircraft carrying 181 passengers and crew crashed at the Muan international airport on 29 December in what was the countrys worst air disaster. The plane failed to deploy its landing gear, landed on its belly, overshot the runway, rammed into a concrete wall, and burst into flames, killing everyone onboard except two crew members seated at the back. I feel heavy responsibility for this disaster, Park Sang Woo said at a press conference on Tuesday, adding that he would find the right time to resign. A week after the tragedy, South Korean authorities were still investigating the cause of the crash, with fire officials suggesting a bird strike or bad weather led to the accident. open image in gallery Firefighters near the wreckage of a crashed passenger plane at Muan international airport ( Getty ) Aviation experts have said the concrete embankment that the aircraft rammed into was too rigid and too close to the runway. It was after crashing headlong into that wall, designed to prop up a localiser antenna for guiding landings in poor visibility, that the plane disintegrated and caught fire. Joo Jong Wan, the deputy transport minister for civil aviation, has acknowledged that the safety measures observed during the building of the wall were not sufficient, but maintained that they were in line with regulations in Korea and overseas. open image in gallery A crane lifts the tail section during the salvage operation of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 aircraft which crashed and burst into flames at the Muan international airport in South Korea ( YONHAP/AFP via Getty ) South Korean police investigating the incident raided the offices of Jeju Air and the Muan airport operator last week, securing evidence like the localiser and the communication records between the control tower and the pilot before the crash. Lee Seung Yeol, head of the investigation team, said at the press briefing on Tuesday that they had found feathers on one of the engines recovered from the crash site and that there was video footage showing a bird strike. The government, meanwhile, extended the shutdown of the Muan airport until 14 January. Two Korean investigators departed for the US on Monday to work with the National Transportation Safety Board in recovering and analysing a flight data recorder that was damaged in the crash. The flight data recorder, together with the cockpit voice recorder, forms the black box that holds critical information about the incident. Mr Lee said it would take three days to extract the files from the data recorder and two more to do a preliminary analysis of the data. Sound, stable ties needed to tackle global challenges 14:13, January 07, 2025 By Xing Yi ( China Daily A performer breakdances at the national pavilion of France during the 2024 China International Fair for Trade in Services in Beijing on Sept 14. (Chen Yehua/Xinhua) The year 2024 witnessed a series of high-level meetings between China and Europe, with more than a dozen European state leaders and senior officials paying visits and engaging in bilateral discussions with their Chinese counterparts. In May, President Xi Jinping embarked on a trip to France, Serbia, and Hungary, strengthening China-Europe mutual trust and promoting pragmatic collaboration. Amid the increase in high-level communications between China and Europe, senior officials and experts have urged the two sides to further their strategic dialogue and win-win cooperation, because sound and stable China-Europe relations, they emphasized, are beneficial to global prosperity and crucial to tackling global challenges. "Europe holds an important position in China's diplomatic agenda. A healthier and more stable China-Europe relationship serves the fundamental interests of both sides and the common aspiration of the world," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at the Symposium on the International Situation and China's Foreign Relations on Dec 17. Calling Xi's Europe trip "historic", Wang noted its achievements: advancing the 60-year-old China-France diplomatic relationship into a new phase, reinforcing the "ironclad friendship" between China and Serbia, and elevating China-Hungary ties to an "all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for the new era". Peace, development, and exchanges topped the agenda of Xi's visits, which were warmly welcomed by the host countries. Chinese and local engineers inspect a construction site of the Serbian segment of the Belgrade-Budapest Railway, in Novi Sad, Serbia, on Sept 16. (Wang Wei/Xinhua) Historic trip During his visit to France, Xi and French President Emmanuel Macron issued joint statements on the situation in the Middle East, on artificial intelligence and global governance, on biodiversity and oceans, and on agricultural exchanges and cooperation. Nearly 20 bilateral cooperation documents were signed in such areas as green development, aviation, agrifood, commerce, and people-to-people exchanges. As China and France celebrated the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties, Macron noted that the two countries enjoy a friendly relationship and productive cooperation regarding not just cutting-edge technologies but also global issues such as climate change and marine biodiversity. In Serbia, Xi and his Serbian counterpart, Aleksandar Vucic, together announced the building of a China-Serbia community with a shared future in the new era. Serbia became the first European country to establish such a high-level relationship with China. Vucic acknowledged China's significant investment in Serbia to help the local economy and improve living standards. He welcomed further Chinese investments, and more direct flights, and ensured the timely completion of the Serbian segment of the Belgrade-Budapest Railway. In Hungary, Xi held talks with Hungarian President Tamas Sulyok and Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The leaders witnessed the exchange of multiple bilateral cooperation documents on the Belt and Road Initiative, economy and trade, investment, science and technology, culture, and agriculture, among others. In addition to the Europe visit, Xi also engaged with leaders from Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy at meetings surrounding the G20 Summit in Brazil, and welcomed heads of European states, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Italy, Spain, Finland and Slovakia, in Beijing. Feng Zhongping, director of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of European Studies, said the visits demonstrate the efforts the two sides are making to promote political mutual trust despite the challenges in China-EU relations. European countries have realized the importance of pragmatic cooperation with China, as they are closely interconnected in terms of the economy, and such cooperation serves the interests of both sides, he said. Luigi Gambardella, president of China-EU, a Brussels-based association promoting China-Europe business cooperation, said Italian President Sergio Mattarella's Beijing visit brought commitments to further expand trade, particularly by increasing China's imports of high-quality Italian goods. Michael Schumann, chairman of the Board of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, praised the meeting between Xi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz which highlighted Sino-German collaboration. Schumann said that Germany's export-driven economy has long thrived on international cooperation. For many years, the EU had been China's largest trading partner. It became the second-largest after Brexit in 2020. According to the European Commission, the volume of trade in goods between the EU and China accounted for 739 billion euros ($770 billion) in 2023. A student at the Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school in Budapest shows her painting of a giant panda on May 3. (Zhao Dingzhe/Xinhua) This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-EU bilateral relations. Besides economic cooperation, China and Europe have often worked closely on various multilateral issues throughout the history of China-EU relations, such as global climate change governance and World Trade Organization reforms, said Jin Ling, a senior research fellow on European studies at the China Institute of International Studies. "There is a strategic consensus among China and European countries in support of multilateralism in response to the challenges posed by (US President-elect) Donald Trump's unilateralism," said Jin, adding that strengthening multilateral cooperation has been an element in nearly all joint declarations from China-EU summits for a long time. However, advancing a global order and fostering multilateral cooperation between China and the EU has been challenged by ideological divides and excessive geopolitical thinking in recent years. In 2019, the European Commission published an EU-China Strategy Outlook which declared China to be a "partner for cooperation, an economic competitor, and a systemic rival". In 2023, Ursula von der Leyen, the chief of the commission, launched a "de-risking "policy toward China. More recently, the EU finalized a decision to place additional tariffs of up to 35.3 percent on Chinese electric vehicle imports. A recent report by the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU found that 93 percent of surveyed Chinese companies say the EU's economic security stance has affected their operations and dented their confidence. About 60 percent of the companies say they have felt "strong anti-China sentiment", while 64 percent say they have met unfair treatment due to their identity as a Chinese company, according to the report. "The EU's current priority should not be asserting rule-setting in areas like trade remedies, investment screening, and industrial policies, nor attempting to impose these through instruments such as duties, fines, lawsuits, or administrative intervention upon China," said Cui Hongjian, director of the Center for the European Union and Regional Development Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University. "A world increasingly marked by 'geopolitical competition' and even conflicts between country groups does not serve either side's interests," he wrote for the China Think-tank Network on Europe in November. Lu Shaye, China's ambassador to France, used the Paris Olympics as a metaphor for competition between China and Europe at a forum in Paris on Dec 17. "Just as athletes compete to surpass their limits, nations inspire each other through mutual pursuit and progress," Lu said. "China's success does not mean Europe's failure, and vice versa. Economic issues should be resolved through economic logic, as overly politicizing them could backfire." Cai Run, head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union, stressed that China and Europe are "partners", not "rivals", in a commentary for Euronews on Dec 20. "China and the EU, as two major forces driving multipolarity, two large markets supporting globalization, and two great civilizations advocating diversity, have no fundamental conflicts of interest," Cai wrote. "The essence of China-EU practical cooperation in trade and other areas is complementary advantages and mutual benefit." Xinhua contributed to this story. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Although tiny in size, the venomous Irukandji jellyfish can prove deadly for some, with Aussies now being warned what to look out for. The deadly Irukandji jellyfish are incredibly hard to spot thanks to their tiny size and translucent appearance. Source: Getty/fnqlifeguards Aussies are being warned of an almost invisible ocean threat which can cause immense pain and can be fatal, with an alarming video shared by lifeguards showing just how easily it can go unseen when swimming in the water. The venomous Irukandji jellyfish are a "tiny" 1-2cm in length, and almost completely translucent when in water, as shown by lifesavers in Far North Queensland in a clip shared on social media. "Just a brush of a tentacle, literally not even a full square hit, can absolutely send you to hospital and typically does," Lisa-Ann Gershwin, a biologist and jellyfish specialist, told Yahoo News Australia. The footage was taken after it was caught at the popular Palm Cove Beach north of Cairns last month. It shows the potentially deadly jellyfish swimming alongside $2 coin for perspective. Lisa-Anne said this species is the "size of a pinky nail when fully grown". ADVERTISEMENT "This is what we mean when we say Irukandji really are THAT small!" the post on the Australian Lifeguard Service in North Queensland's Instagram page reads. Jellyfish stings result in 'horrible' Irukandji syndrome or death The most common Irukandji species is the Carukia barnesi, which is shown in the video. And while some can grow much bigger, up to 15cm, they're all still hard to spot and all extremely dangerous, experts warn. A sting from one of them can cause what's called "Irukandji syndrome". "It's an absolutely dreadful constellation of symptoms that you seriously wouldn't want," Lisa-Anne explained. Symptoms include severe lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, full-body cramps and spasms and a feeling of impending doom. In some cases, a sting can also cause "severe hypertension or high blood pressure" causing stroke, fluid in the lungs and even heart failure. ADVERTISEMENT "This is where we see fatal cases or life-threatening cases. It's really, really horrible," the Tasmanian-based scientist added. The tiny, almost invisible jellyfish can have deadly consequences. Source: Far North Queensland Lifeguards Irukandji jellyfish found across Australia, not just in Queensland While it's often thought Irukandji are only present in Queensland waters with dozens of sightings and close encounters reported each year Lisa-Anne said there have been ample sightings across the country too. Further south along the NSW coast, there have been "dozens and dozens of confirmed stings". Broome and Exmouth in Western Australia are also known "Irukandji hotspot places", she said. But many people aren't aware, which is problematic. "What that means is that outside the tropics, people aren't thinking about Irukandji safety, because it's just not on their radar at all," she said. "And so then they're vulnerable to when it happens because they're just simply not aware that the risk is all around them." ADVERTISEMENT Swimmers advised to wear protective suits in jellyfish prone areas Across Queensland, stinger nets are present at many beaches during the high-risk marine stinger season, which runs from November to May. They were installed in the early 1980s to protect against "the world's most venomous animal" the deadly box jellyfish. "It'll kill a healthy adult in as little as two minutes," Lisa-Anne warned of the box jellyfish. Like the Irukandji, box jellyfish measure only centimetres in length and are near-invisible in the water. Both can be fatal if stung. Source: Supplied But the trouble is, because of their "dainty size", Irukandji can "sail right through" the nets meaning swimmers aren't necessarily protected from them. Queensland lifesavers recommend wearing a stinger suit for extra safety. ADVERTISEMENT "It might not be the trendiest look but its your best protection against these harmful stings," a lifeguard warned in a Surf Life Saving Queensland safety video last month. Key signs Irukandji jellyfish may be present in the water Responding to the video and the size of the killer creatures Aussies were in disbelief. "Thats insane. In such a big ocean, something so small could be so deadly," one said. "Not a hope of spotting that when you're in the water," wrote another. "So small and delicate yet so incredibly dangerous," a third shared. While stings are still considered "pretty rare" according to Lisa-Anne, it's important to pay attention and be aware. Knowing about the risk factors is key to ensuring safety. The lifeguards explained that "calm flat seas" and "warm currents" are often prime conditions for Irukandji, and are likely a sign they could be in the water. Another visible indicator "of a very high-risk condition" is if you see what looks like broken glass scattered along the tideline. This is a collection of "little jelly bodies" washed ashore, and while they're not actually Irukandji, they co-occur during an Irukandji event. When this is evident, "do not go in the water as there will be Irukandji," she warned. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. 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 Bird feathers have been found in an engine recovered from the site of the deadly Jeju Air flight which crashed-landedand killed 179 people in South Korea, investigators said. The Boeing 737-800 skidded off a runway at Muan International Airport and hit a concrete fence, bursting into flames, on 29 December. The cause of the disaster is under investigation, but video showed the plane having difficulty with the landing gear. The pilot also received a warning from air traffic controllers about possible bird strikes and the plane issued a distress signal before the crash, investigators added. All of the victims were South Koreans except for two Thais, with many returning from Bangkok after Christmas holidays there. open image in gallery The Boeing 737-800 was carrying 181 people from Thailand to South Korea when it crashed on arrival on 29 December 2024 ( AFP via Getty Images ) Last week, investigators searched the offices of the airport operator and the transport ministrys aviation authority in the southwestern county of Muan as the well as office of Jeju Air in Seoul, the South Jeolla provincial police said in a statement. They planned to seize documents and materials related to the operation and maintenance of the aircraft as well as the operation of airport facilities, a police official told Reuters. Authorities also banned the chief executive of Jeju Air from leaving South Korea. The investigation team imposed a travel ban on two individuals, including Jeju Air CEO Kim E Bae, police said. The crash has prompted the South Korean government to order emergency inspections of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic carriers. Investigators are focusing on the landing gear, which appeared to have malfunctioned during the Jeju Air crash. open image in gallery The plane crash-landed and skidded off a runway at Muan International Airport and hit a concrete fence, bursting into flames Jeju Air, facing significant public backlash, has seen a sharp drop in its stock value and over 60,000 flight cancellations. The tragedy has shaken South Korea, prompting the acting president to call for a comprehensive review of airline operations and airport safety infrastructure Bereaved relatives held a memorial service at the site of the crash on New Years Day, laying white flowers and offering traditional rice cake soup in tribute to their loved ones. They were bused to the site, where they took turns laying white flowers, knelt down and bowed deeply before a memorial table where food was placed. The food included ddeokguk, a Korean rice cake soup eaten on New Years Day. 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 South Korean court on Monday found a woman not guilty of murdering her father after she spent almost a quarter century in prison. The Gwangju district court acquitted Kim Shin Hye, 47, who was falsely sentenced to life in prison for murdering her father and disposing of his body in 2000, after a retrial. It cited a lack of evidence and unclear motive for Ms Kim to commit the crime. Ms Kims confession, which led to her conviction over two decades ago, could not be used as evidence because she had retracted it, The Korea Herald reported the court as noting. Ms Kim said she had lied to police to save her brother from going to jail. In spite of retracting her confession, she was sentenced by the Supreme Court in 2001. At the time, prosecutors accused Ms Kim of mixing 30 sleeping pills in whiskey and giving it to her 52-year-old father at their home before killing him. She was also accused of abandoning his body on a roadside about 6km from their house in Wando, South Jeollah. Ms Kim initially confessed, saying she had killed her father for sexually assaulting her and her younger sister. She retracted her statement during the trial, however, and denied the charges against her. It is possible that Kim falsely confessed due to different reasons, the Gwangju court said. It was unclear if Ms Kims father had died from sleeping pills given by the defendant as the autopsy report didnt indicate the man had taken any type of drug in a large dose, the court ruled, adding that the extremely high blood alcohol content of 0.303 per cent could have been the cause of death. Although suspicions remain over Kim urging her siblings to give false statements and over inconsistencies in her own testimonies, such circumstances alone are not enough to warrant a guilty verdict, the court said. After her release, Ms Kim told reporters: "I have many thoughts about whether it should have taken decades to correct something that was wrong. I deeply regret not being able to protect my father, who suffered so much and passed away." 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 A Japanese expert on demographic trends and ageing society has warned that if the countrys birthrate continues its current decline, the nation will be left with only one child under the age of 14 by 5 January 2720. Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor at Tohoku Universitys Research Center for Aged Economy and Society, has been maintaining a conceptual clock that highlights Japans rapidly declining fertility rate by displaying real-time data on the number of children in the country. It shows the number of children in the current year and the previous year and tracks the decrease every second. Using official population data from the Japanese Statistics Bureau, the clock calculates a decreasing rate by comparing the number of children in consecutive years. The clock then estimates the year when the number of children will drop to just one, based on this steady decline. According to the latest calculation, this would happen around the year 2720 695 years from now. Mr Yoshida has been releasing estimates every year since April 2012, according to The Japan Times. The forecast is derived from the annual rate of decline in the population of children. The latest data, reflecting a 2.3 per cent decrease, has advanced the predicted date by more than 100 years compared to the estimate made in 2023. Japans birthrate dropped to a record low of 1.20 in 2023, with Tokyos rate falling below one. This decline has been linked to fewer marriages, with a growing number of people remaining single. Meanwhile, the number of births in Japan during the first half of 2024 fell to its lowest level since 1969, according to government data. Between January and June last year, Japan recorded 350,074 births, a 5.7 per cent drop from the same period in 2023, the health ministrys preliminary report revealed. This decline continues a longstanding trend, with 2023 also marking the lowest annual number of births since records began in 1899. The population survey report released on 30 August last year detailed that births had fallen by 5.7 per cent (20,978 fewer births) compared to 2023. In 2023, the number of births had already dropped by 3.6 per cent (13,890 fewer births) from the year prior. Japanese policymakers are fighting tooth and nail to implement what they call extraordinary measures to combat the declining birthrate. Japanese leaders have called the countrys declining birth rate alarming. The clock displays the current number of children in Japan, the previous years data, real-time population decline, and the projected year when the child population would hypothetically drop to one ( Research Center for Aged Economy and Society, Tohoku University, Japan ) Mr Yoshida mentions on his website that the aim of the real-time clock which calculates and displays the year when the number of children in Japan would hypothetically reduce to just one based on the current rate of decline is to raise awareness about Japans rapid population decline, particularly among children, and the broader implications of the countrys declining birthrate. The Japanese government has been trying various measures to address this issue, including expanding childcare facilities, offering housing subsidies, and even launching a government-run dating app to encourage marriage and childbearing. The app even caught billionaire Elon Musks interest who wrote on X: Im glad the government of Japan recognises the importance of this matter. If radical action isnt taken, Japan (and many other countries) will disappear! Marriage is a decision based on ones own values, but the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is working to build momentum for marriage so that those who think they intend to get married eventually can take that first step, the dating apps website said. We hope that every single one of you who wishes to get married will think about what being in a couple means to you, it said. It also outlined other government measures to support couples, including providing information on work-life balance, childcare, housing assistance, mens involvement in housework and child-rearing, and career counselling. Despite government efforts, experts predict that Japans population decline will persist for decades due to the current demographic structure. Even if the fertility rate were to rise immediately, the population would continue to shrink until the imbalance between the younger and older generations stabilises. The Independent has reached out to Tohoku Universitys Research Center for Aged Economy and Society for more details. 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 Philippines mobilised its air and sea assets in its economic exclusive zone after accusing China of intimidation with the deployment of a monster Chinese coast guard vessel. Manila raised an alarm over Chinas deployment of the 12,000-ton patrol vessel, CCG-5901, which was first spotted off the coast of Capones Island in the western province of Zambales on Saturday. With a length of 541ft, the CCG-5901 is three times the size of the US coast guards main patrol vessels, the National Security Cutter, and is armed with anti-aircraft guns and fuel storage capacities making it suitable it to undertake extended missions. Philippine coast guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said its patrol vessel BRP Cabra is maintaining its vigilant monitoring of the illegal presence of the China coast guard vessel CCG-5901 within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for the third consecutive day. Philippines says its vessel is tailing Chinas monster coast guard Vessel inPhilippines Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) ( Screemgrab/PhilippinesCoastGuard ) Its erratic movements indicate it is not engaged in innocent passage but rather asserts that it is conducting a law enforcement operation, claiming jurisdiction over these waters as belonging to the Peoples Republic of China. Jonathan Malaya, spokesperson for the National Security Council, told state television on Monday: "We have all our assets pointed at this monster ship. The moment it (carries out) any provocative action, it will be met with appropriate response. According to a video shared by the Philippine coast guard, it ordered the Chinese vessel to leave the area, warning it has no authority to operate there. In its radioed response, the Chinese ship said it was conducting law enforcement duties within its jurisdictional waters. "This is part of Chinas intimidation, coercion, aggression and deception. They are showcasing their ship to intimidate our fishermen," Mr Malaya said, adding the Philippine maritime presence would be boosted to support fishermen. The situation between China and US ally Philippines marks the latest point of friction as the relations between the two have soured in the past few years, with spats frequent as Manila, under president Ferdinand Marcos Jr, pushes back at what it sees as aggression by Beijing. China has accused the Philippines of repeated encroachment in its waters. China with its largest navy in the world claims most of the South China Sea, a key conduit for $3 trillion of annual ship-borne trade, as its own territory, with a massive coast guard presence in and around the EEZs of neighbours Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia. The state-run Global Times reported on Monday that the Chinese coast guard would increase patrols around the disputed Scarborough Shoal. It said the law enforcement patrols are entirely justified. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Tuesday: It is beyond reproach for China coast guard to patrol and conduct law-enforcement activities in relevant waters in accordance with the law. The Chinese foreign ministry is yet to respond to Philippines comments. 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 Robert De Niro has admitted that there is one parenting chore he doesnt participate in. The 81-year-old recently opened up about what his life looks like with a one-year-old daughter named Gia, whom he shares with his girlfriend Tiffany Chen. Though the two of them share parenting duties, he admitted to not changing her diapers. No, no, but I used to, the Taxi Driver actor told The Sunday Times about diaper-changing. De Niro hastened to add that because hes an early riser, hes used the extra time to be with the 19-month-old. I spend my mornings watching [the YouTuber for toddlers] Ms Rachel with her, and I give her her bottle, he said. In addition to Gia, De Niro is the father of six other children from previous relationships. The actor and his first wife, Diahnne Abbott, share one daughter, Drena, 57, and one son, Raphael, 48. In 1995, he welcomed his twins, Julian and Aaron, 29, with ex-girlfriend Toukie Smith. He also shares his 26-year-old son, Elliot, and 12-year-old daughter, Helen Grace, with ex-wife Grace Hightower. De Niro said he spends his mornings with daughter Gia because hes an early riser ( Getty Images ) At one point during the interview, the Goodfellas actor was asked how all of his children would describe him as a father and parent and he answered that each of them would likely give a different answer. Oh God, they would all have a different answer. Family is so complex, he said while adding that he hopes his children know that he tried his best. I try my best, thats all. I hope theyll be happy, De Niro said. This isnt the first time The Irishman actor has spoken about Gia. Back in January 2024 during an interview with AARP, he said that it feels great to become a new father again at his age. Everything that Im consumed with or worried about just goes away when I look at her. Its wondrous, De Niro said at the time. When she gets older who knows? Speaking to The Guardian in October 2023, he also praised his girlfriend for all the work she does raising their child. While confessing that fatherhood doesnt get easier, after being a parent for quite some time, he said: It is what it is. Its okay. I mean, I dont do the heavy lifting. Im there, I support my girlfriend. But she does the work. And we have help, which is so important. 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 Shari Franke, the oldest daughter of YouTube family vlogger and convicted child abuser Ruby Franke,has revealed that she witnessed evidence of an intimate relationship between her mother and mothers business partner Jodi Hildebrant. On Tuesday (January 7) the 21-year-olds memoir The House of My Mother: A Daughters Quest for Freedom was released. In the book, she wrote about her 8 Passengers family vlogger mother and how she was sneaking around with Hildebrant. Back in February Ruby and Hildebrant were sentenced to up to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, including trying to convince Rubys two youngest children that they were evil, possessed by demons, and needed to be punished. Rubys four minor children were taken into the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services. In her memoir, Franke revealed that at one point, her room had been given to Hildebrant, and she was forced to sleep on the living room couch. She wrote that the two of them were the only people allowed upstairs and in her old bedroom as they even cut off Rubys now ex-husband Kevin Franke. open image in gallery Shari Frankes (right) memoir about her mother (left) was released on January 7 ( Instagram/@momoftruth/@sharilfranke ) When Hildebrandt began experiencing demonic night terrors Ruby decided she would sleep in the room with her business partner, explaining that Frankes bedroom was their sanctuary. At one point, she snuck back into her bedroom noticing that it was filled with candles and massage oils. The room was bathed in the soft glow of candles, she wrote in her memoir. The air was heavy with the scent of lavender and vanilla wafting form the massage oils on the dresser. open image in gallery Ruby (right) and Hildebrant (left) were both sentenced to up to 30 years in prison ( Moms of Truth/Instagram ) I quickly grabbed what I needed and got the hell out of there, feeling like I had just walked into someone elses honeymoon suite, she continued.The only thing missing was rose petals on the bed. She recalled Ruby then leaving her old bedroom at 5 a.m. trying to quickly tie her robe with messy hair and flushed cheeks. What the hell was going on? she asked in her memoir. Why was Ruby sneaking around in the middle of the night like a teenager trying not to get caught by her parents? Were they really doing candlelit massages in my bedroom? Franke admitted how bad she felt for her father, who seemed oblivious to what his wife was doing. She also committed on how the two of them had condemned queerness very publicly in their ConneXions videos, while embodying it privately. In my room. On my bed, most likely. Despite the pain she says she would have felt if Hildebrant and her mother openly admitted their affair, Franke also wrote that she would have supported them. It would have been preferable to living like this, she wrote. In this house of lies that I couldnt bear to step foot in anymore. At a different point in her book, Franke recounted what happened when she first contacted child protective services in a bid to help her siblings. Rubys face contorted with anger and hurt. I cant believe you called the police on me, she began, her voice rising. After everything Ive done for you, after all the sacrifices Ive made. How could you betray me like that, Shari? How could you be so selfish? she wrote. The words hit me like physical blows, but I stood my ground. [I reminded myself] that I wasnt alone, that I had support beyond the toxic web of my family, she continued. Franke first revealed she had written a memoir in an Instagram post back in October 2024. 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. 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 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. What Is HMPV? Human metapneumovirus, first identified in 2001 by Dutch scientists, is a common respiratory virus known to cause mild cold-like symptoms in most people. However, it can lead to severe illness in infants, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Professor Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group at the University of Oxford, describes HMPV as one of many viruses contributing to winter pressure on healthcare systems. It causes respiratory illness in babies and the elderly, which can result in hospitalisation. For most other age groups, it simply causes cold-like symptoms, he says. Professor John Tregoning from Imperial College London reiterates that HMPV is not a new virus and shares symptoms with other respiratory illnesses like RSV and flu. It will present in the same way as flu, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV, he says, adding that preventive measures like handwashing, good ventilation, and staying home when sick can help curb its spread. Professor Paul Hunter from the University of East Anglia notes that almost every child contracts HMPV by five years of age, with reinfections occurring throughout life. HMPV typically causes cold-like symptoms that recover by themselves within 2 to 5 days. Severe cases are rare but can occur in vulnerable groups, he says. Theres no vaccine for HMPV at the moment but a few are under development. Current situation in China 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. Experts say at this stage the outbreak doesnt appear out of the ordinary. 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, Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, infectious diseases specialist from the Australian National University, says. This could be due to a combination of viral and behavioural factors, but it should settle down. However, it is vital for China to share data on this outbreak in a timely manner. This includes epidemiologic data about who is getting infected. Also, we 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. Some scientists say the rise in infections could be a result of increased diagnosis. We are diagnosing a greater proportion of infections. So far, there is no evidence of a more serious global issue, Prof Hunter says. No global health emergency The World Health Organization has not classified the increase in HMPV infections as a global health emergency, but the UN agency continues to monitor the situation closely. Professor Jill Carr, a virologist at Flinders University, says HMPV outbreak is very different from Covid, where the virus was completely new in humans and arose from a spillover from animals. HMPV can certainly make people very sick, she notes, but the current situation in China with high HMPV cases is very different from the threats initially posed by SARS-CoV-2. 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 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. 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 countrys largest medical union has issued a stark warning on Labours planned NHS overhaul, claiming ongoing staffing pressures could undermine ambitious plans to reduce cut waiting lists. Latest figures published by NHS England reveal there were 32,000 nurse vacancies last year, while Lord Darzis report last month showed there were almost 16 per cent fewer qualified GPs in UK than other comparitive countries. The British Medical Association (BMA) fears the shortage could be worsened if Labour fails to focus on retaining staff - and has warned that a lack of staff could jeopardise the partys plan to roll out more surgical hubs and extend the hours of community diagnostic centre hours. In terms of medical staff, if you're taking medical staff from hospitals to work in a surgical hub or community diagnostic centre youre just shuffling around the same people, BMA consultant co-lead Dr Helen Neary told The Independent. Labours plan to reform the NHS with the goal of reducing wait times from 18 months to 18 weeks by March 2029 was unveiled by Sir Keir on Monday. He set out a plan to improve patient access to care across England by providing millions of extra appointments and services that treat patients more quickly, closer to where they live. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer takes a selfie with NHS staff. Experts say more needs to be done to retain staff. ( PA Wire ) The plan included building 17 additional or expanded surgical hubs and extending community diagnostic centre operating hours and increasing their testing scope. But Dr Neary warned of current shortages across the NHS, with the latest figures published by the NHS showing nearly 31,000 vacancies for nursing in September, although this is down from just over 42,000 vacancies the year before. The Lord Darzi report show there are almost 16 per cent fewer fully qualified GPs in the UK than other high-income countries relative to our population, and the number of nurses working in the community fell by at least 5 per cent between 2009 and 2023. The number of mental health nurses has also returned to its 2010 level. The Royal College of Nursing said more investment was required to retain and attract workers. General secretary and chief executive Professor Nicola Ranger told The Independent the nursing workforce the missing link in Labours plans. She said: Patients are waiting too long for treatment and modernisation in the NHS is needed. But the missing link in all of this is the nursing workforce. We desperately need new investment in our workforce otherwise all attempts to improve patient care and modernise the NHS will never get off the ground. The BMA said staff retention should be a a main focus of Labour, as should increasing the number of places in training programmes to provide more career pathways for a greater number of doctors. We need to make medicine an attractive career, Dr Neary said. University of Glasgow professor of comparative politics, Sergei Pardos-Prado, said pay and conditions needed to be improved to improve the workforce, ash he revealed applications for nursing fell last year for a third year in a row. Prof Pardos-Prado said other incentives to boost nursing enrollments could include government help with tuition fees. Improving pay and conditions is a fundamental step to make professional careers in the NHS more attractive in the long run, he said. However this also needs to be complemented with interventions to increase the productivity of existing staff. NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said part of the staffing solution was also managing patients and workloads differently, aided by planned upgrades to the NHS app, the ability for GPs to directly refer some patients for diagnostics and the increases in surgical hubs that sit separate to hospitals. Staff are incredibly important in the NHS. Its why 18 months ago, we set out a new long term workforce plan to expand staff working in the health service, and were working hard on that, he said on BBC Radio 5 on Monday, Were looking with the new government at how that works and how we might have to modify that. Health Minister Karin Smyth admitted that workforce was an issue in the NHS, but hoped that the expanded range of services could encourage more workers to stay, "Well, we know that workforce is a problem in the system, but we also know that people are working in really dreadful conditions, she told Times Radio on Monday. We know that some of these locations will actually be attractive for staff to work in because of where they are, the sorts of work they're doing, because it's routine work, particularly focused on electives, rather than being in hospital. A large 4WD towing a caravan was snapped parked across five disabled bays at Dreamworld in Queensland. A caravan was snapped parked across five accessible bays at Dreamworld in Queensland. Source: Reddit Parking etiquette has once again been brought into question after a "disgusting" car park scene was witnessed by frustrated Aussies, at a time when people are travelling and visiting packed-out tourist hotspots across the country. A large 4WD towing a caravan was snapped parked across five disabled bays at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast a theme park frequently visited by domestic travellers during school holidays. And worryingly, it's an issue that's "becoming increasingly widespread" across the country, Snap Send Solve's Danny Gorog told Yahoo News Australia. One outraged witness shared the photo on social media, calling out the "able-bodied arsehole" responsible for the "bulls**t" park. Many agreed it was "absolute scum" behaviour that's simply not on. Driver 'offered alternate parking' but refused, according to Dreamworld A spokesperson for Dreamworld said they were "aware of the incident involving a caravan occupying multiple accessible parking spaces" and did their best to intervene. But when approached by staff, the driver refused to move. ADVERTISEMENT Although the guest in question "held a valid disability parking permit", parking across multiple bays meant blocking access for others who need them. "Our team offered an alternative parking arrangement to ensure convenience for all guests, but the guest chose not to utilise this option," a spokesperson told Yahoo. "To address the situation proactively, we prepared an additional section of accessible parking spaces as a contingency. However, this additional capacity was not required, as the existing accessible parking spaces were sufficient to accommodate all other guests with permits on the day." Dreamworlds said it has ample parking spaces available, even for larger vehicles such as trucks and caravans. Source: Google Images. Advice for Aussie travelling with caravans this summer Responding to the image, one person noted the long vehicle parking "literally behind where this guy parked". Dreamworld provides "ample parking options", the spokesperson confirmed. ADVERTISEMENT "Our team is always available to assist guests in finding suitable parking," they said. With many Australians travelling with caravans this summer, staff encourage visitors to "plan ahead". This involves checking out parking ahead of time. "Dreamworld remains dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for all visitors, including those with accessibility requirements," they said. Influx of caravans sparking parking complaints across Australia It's not the first time caravan parking etiquette has been brought into question, especially considering the increase we've experienced on Aussie roads in recent years. ADVERTISEMENT It's understood that complaints about caravans and campervans parked in non-allocated areas is a growing issue across the region. A travel boom has also contributed to parking struggles further north throughout the Sunshine Coast area. Caravans parking in non-allocated areas is a growing problem across Australia as shown here in two separate NSW locations. Source: Facebook When not in use, many say they take up valuable space on residential streets, sometimes blocking access for other cars. Gorog said that caravan and trailer ownership is putting a "strain on urban and suburban areas", where space is limited. "With a dramatic rise in caravan ownership in recent years, the issue is becoming increasingly widespread," he told Yahoo. Victoria is leading the count with 3,165 reports of illegally parked large vehicles. NSW follows closely with 2,482 reports, and Queensland with 1,842. Western Australia has reported 637 illegal parking incidents, while South Australia and Tasmania recorded 164 and 46, respectively. ADVERTISEMENT "These numbers highlight the growing strain on urban and suburban areas, where space is limited, and the presence of large vehicles exacerbates safety and accessibility issues," he said. "In many cases, they take up more than their fair share of parking spaces, or block access to essential services like fire hydrants". Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. 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 Amazon is paying a whopping $40 million to license an upcoming documentary about Melania Trump, directed by Brett Ratner, to stream on Prime Video in addition to a several-episode follow-up docuseries, according to a report. On Sunday, Amazon confirmed the behind the scenes film on the incoming First Lady had started filming in December and is expected to be released in theaters and on Prime Video later this year. Ratner, a director who retreated from Hollywood in 2018 amid the #MeToo movement after several women accused him of sexual misconduct, is directing the film. Melania is set to serve as an executive producer. Amazon did not confirm how much it paid to license the documentary, it is unclear how much of that will go toward Melania - who serves as an executive producer - as well. open image in gallery Melania Trump will serve as an executive producer on an upcoming documentary project directed by Brett Ratner. Its now being reported that Amazon is paying $40 million for the rights ( Getty Images ) The price tag was first reported by Puck News on Tuesday. Three people familiar with the deal told Puck News that the $40 million deal includes the documentary and a two-to-three-episode follow-up docuseries on Melania. The Independent has reached out to representatives for Melania and Amazon. Its the latest public relations move for Melania, who released a self-titled memoir last year and recently promoted her line of Christmas ornaments and jewelry. The incoming First Lady often avoids the political spotlight largely remaining out of sight on her husband, Donald Trumps, presidential campaign. But she has embarked on her own venture, promoting her personal brand. The collaboration between Melania and Amazon also arrives as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has cozied up to the incoming president. Bezos recently met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence and announced Amazon would donate $1 million to Trumps inaugural fund. open image in gallery Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has also recently donated $1 million to Trumps inaugural fund ( Getty Images ) During Trumps first administration, Bezos and the president-elect butted heads. Trump criticized Bezos for political coverage at The Washington Post, which Bezos also owns. But Bezos, and other tech giants, have changed their tune about the incoming president as he prepares to enter his second term. Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook and CEO of Meta, also met with Trump and donated $1 million to his inaugural fund. Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who heads Tesla and SpaceX, has become one of Trumps closest allies over the last year. Raising and donating millions to Trumps presidential campaign and now taking an advisory position to the president-elect. 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 with stalking Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas during a six-year campaign that caused her serious distress, a court has heard. Kyle Shaw, 37, was accused of sending messages to the 64-year-old between 2017 and 2023, which had a substantial adverse effect on her usual day-to-day activities. Appearing at South Sefton magistrates court in Bootle, Merseyside, Shaw was charged with stalking and a separate charge of possessing cannabis, according to The Sun. The charge stated that he had pursued a course of conduct, namely sending messages online, which amounted to stalking causing Shirley Ballas serious alarm or distress. He made no pleas in court, and his address was given as a YMCA in the region. Shirley Ballas on Strictly' ( BBC ) Shaw is not allowed to enter London and is prohibited from contacting or approaching Ballas by any means including social media. Five months ago, the Strictly judge said that she called the police after a man was seen taking pictures of her house and car. She said that the man also lunged at her. Investigating officers confiscated his phone and computer, but is not known whether that investigation is linked to Shaw. I like to be kind of like a free bird, but were coming into times now where you have to be more vigilant of yourself, she said at the time, according to The Sun. Youre upping your level of alarms. And I always tell my mum, Im here, Ive arrived. I wouldnt bother normally but its become a thing that we do. I always like to say, Im safe, Im in the right place, Im where I should be. She added: Thankfully the BBCs duty of care towards me has been one thousand per cent. They have been fantastic. In some of these instances, when it was difficult this stalker came from the north of England I had somebody walking me from the hotel. They checked in on me to make sure that I was OK. I just felt very well protected. 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 taxi driver who spread misinformation and incited violence on social media following the Southport attack 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 29 July 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. I have no doubt your actions encouraged many people to plan and then to commit offences of both violent disorder and criminal damage. Mr Flewitt 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. McIntyre was working as a taxi driver when he was intercepted by police in Liverpool on 8 August 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. Andrew McIntyre, 39, set up a Telegram channel called Southport Wake Up, in the immediate aftermath of the attack ( Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire ) 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 30 July. 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 30 July, 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. The court was told McIntyres phone was in the area of St Lukes Road in Southport at 7pm on 30 July and the car he was later arrested in 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. 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. 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 has formally ended his 11-year tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury, laying down his bishops staff. Mr Welby ceases to hold the leading role within the Church from midnight, with the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell taking charge temporarily. His last day as the 105th See of Canterbury, which was also his 69th birthday, was filled with a full schedule of events. 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, he 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. open image in gallery His last day as the 105th See of Canterbury, which was also his 69th birthday, was filled with a full schedule of events ( Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace/PA Wire ) From Tuesday, most of the official functions normally held by the Archbishop of Canterbury will be delegated to Mr Cottrell. 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. However, Mr Cottrell has faced 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. 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. open image in gallery Mr Welby ceases to hold the leading role within the Church from midnight ( Neil Turner/Lambeth Palace/PA Wire ) Campaigners have warned safeguarding in the Church of England must undergo complete reform following failures at the top of the churchs leadership. 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 said: The Church now has a new leader whose record on safeguarding has also been called into question, like Justin Welbys was. Ms Duckworth said nothing less than complete reform of how the Church handles safeguarding when it comes to child abuse will do. She added: 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. 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 Princess Beatrice will join the likes of Rachel Reeves and Angela Merkel at this years annual World Economic Forum in Davos. Delegates from big business, governments, civil society, academia and media will arrive at the exclusive ski resort near Zurich in Switzerland in a fortnight to discuss the biggest global challenges. Alongside Ms Reeves delegation of government ministers, Beatrice is also expected to talk on a panel exploring how private capital from family offices and sovereign wealth funds can be used to tackle climate change, according to The Times. The move signals here increasingly important role in the royal family having stepped up to support the Kings Foundation last year in the wake of cancer diagnoses for King Charles and the Princess of Wales. Her appearance will come a month after Beatrice joined other members of the royal family at Sandringham on Christmas Day after changing her travel plans due to medical advice. She and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are expecting their second child in early spring and were due to spend the festive period overseas with his parents. Instead, the couple were at the Kings Norfolk estate attending the Christmas morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church after being advised not to travel long distances. open image in gallery Ms Reeves will be focusing on securing Britain financial investment at a crucial time,(Jordan Pettitt/PA) ( PA Wire ) Meanwhile, Ms Reeves will be focusing on securing Britain financial investment at a crucial time, following concerns from businesses about employer national insurance hikes announced in her last budget. She told The Times: Im going to be in Davos to tell some of the worlds biggest companies and investors that UK plc is burning bright. I am on a mission to win round the worlds investors. Thats why Ive already made progress on planning reform to get Britain building. And my plans for pension megafunds will unlock billions of pounds of investment for infrastructure projects and businesses of the future. Last year, Reeves attended the forum as shadow chancellor and met with American technology entrepreneurs and founders. Others expected to join her include Jonathan Reynolds, the business secretary, minister for investment Baroness Gustafsso, and he prime ministers special adviser on business and investment Varun Chandra. The World Economic Forum (WEF) was founded in 1971 by German economist Klaus Schwab with the aim of encouraging collaboration between the private and public sectors. For both politicians and corporate leaders, Davos is not only an opportunity to engage and influence other powerful public and private decision-makers, but it also creates an impression of stature and respect on the global stage. For governments it is an opportunity to try to cement and expand influence and co-operation, while politicians in opposition will use Davos as an opportunity to build new relationships and boost their economic credentials at home and abroad. There are politicians and commentators on both the left and right who are highly critical of the WEF. Some on the right describe the forums lofty aims as idealistic and the event as an example of counter-productive groupthink. Others on the left protest the gathering of some of the worlds richest individuals and corporations there is often demonstrations surrounding the event. 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 Royal Society of Literature is embroiled in chaos after two of its chiefs announced their departure amid a series of scandals and bitter in-fighting. Director Molly Rosenberg has resigned from the 205-year-old organisation, home of Britains most outstanding literary talents, as its chair, Daljit Nagra, announced he would step away as his four-year-term concludes this month. The decisions followed months of rows over freedom of speech and come amid accusations the RSL has lowered its standards of membership. Dozens of high profile writers including Margaret Atwood, Kazuo Ishiguro and former president of the society Dame Marina Warner have all criticised its current leadership. The societys civil war is thought to have begun when calls for it to robustly publicly support Salman Rushdie in the wake of his attempted murder were reportedly quietly blocked. open image in gallery 75th National Book Awards ( 2024 Invision ) Warner told The Times earlier this year that she had called for the society to speak out, however the then newly appointed president and Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo allegedly told her the move might give offence. In an article in the Guardian last year, which does not specifically mention Rushdie, Evaristo insisted that the society cannot take sides in writers controversies and issues, but must remain impartial. Rushdie himself waded in on the assertion, posting on X: Just wondering if the Royal Society of Literature is impartial about attempted murder. Members have also shared frustrations over the societys failure to support author Kate Clanchy after she faced a barrage of online abuse. In a further row over free speech, members have claimed that the society postponed the publication of its annual magazine due to an article commenting on Israel and Gaza - though the RSL has repeatedly denied this and said a number of issues with the editorial choices of the freelance editor overseeing the issue, as well as its design, was to blame. In the Guardian article, Evaristo asserted: As for the societys magazine, the RSL Review, its publication was postponed, and it will appear soon, in full. Accusations of censorship and cancellation are unfounded. In February 2024, the RSL reffered itself to the Charity Commission following complaints and a governance review by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations was also commissioned. open image in gallery Bernardine Evaristo will be among those at the festival (David Parry/PA) ( PA Archive ) The RSLs management is still facing concerns over its supposed diluting of its admittance criteria in a bid to boost diversity. One writer, Don Paterson, alleged to The Times that the longstanding rule that fellows could only be nominated if they had two published works of outstanding literary merit had been overlooked. The RSL said that criteria for consideration as a Fellow have not changed. However, novelist Amanda Craig also told The Times that the society no longer the kind of distinction that it was. In 2018, the RSL appointed 40 new fellows under the age of 40,though Evaristo has noted this still makes up only 4 per cent of its membership. It also elected 60 fellows though its RSL Open scheme, an initiative striving to recognise writers from underrepresented backgrounds in 2022 and 2023. More recently, it launched a new election process inviting members of the public to recommend writers for nomination. Evaristo wrote last year that the media myth that she had and insisted on all kinds of radical new measures being implemented as president was massively insulting to previous RSL trustees, chairs and fellows who supported diversifying the fellowship. She added: The charge of lowering standards is a familiar tactic leveraged by those invested in the status quo. So, are recent appointees not good enough? Why wouldnt they be, given that they are chosen in the same way as ever, through the fellowship democratic process? Upon his resignation Nagra, who took up his position four years ago, said he look[ed] forward to watching the RSL continue to grow and prosper, as he said he was proud to have overseen the first ever governance review in our 204-year history to increase transparency in the societys future. Rosenberg, who joined the RSL in 2010 as an intern and took on the role of Director in 2017 said: I am hugely proud of all that I have achieved in my time at the RSL, working for and with brilliant writers across the Fellowship. The Independent has contacted RSL for comment. 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. 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 Keir Starmer has received a boost in his grooming gangs row with Elon Musk after the head of the national child sex abuse inquiry backed the Prime Minister. Professor Alexis Jay backed Sir Keir by saying there is no need for a new national investigation into the issue. In a pointed intervention the chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse (IICSA) said those whipping up the current furore do not have the interests of victims at heart. Instead of demanding a new inquiry they should step up to the mark and implement measures already recommended to tackle the problem. open image in gallery Professor Alexis Jay wants a child protection authority to be established ( PA ) In her first comments since Musk, backed by the Tories, launched a ferocious attack on Starmer, Prof Jay told the BBC: I have heard very little in the public discourse that has taken place in the last few days - if you can dignify it with that description - that has mentioned children and the appalling and lifelong effects that child sexual abuse can have on people. Prof Jay, who chaired the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) that concluded in 2022, and led a separate inquiry into the Rotherham grooming gangs scandal, said a new national inquiry could even slow down changes already ordered to protect the young. Asked if those whipping up the furore were not focussing on victims Prof Jay replied: Mainly that is the case from what I have heard of the debate. open image in gallery Calls for a new grooming gang inquiry have been driven by Elon Musk ( PA ) After days of calls for a fresh national inquiry, fuelled primarily by Musk, Prof Jay told BBC Radio 4s Today programme on Tuesday: We have learned a lot from those reviews that have already been undertaken. Locally people need to step up to the mark and do the things that have been recommended. I think that the time has passed for more inquiries. Weve had enough of inquiries, consultations and discussions and especially for those victims and survivors whove had the courage to come forward, and they clearly want action. "We have set out what action is required and people should just get on with it. Locally and nationally." She also said the row over calls for a new national inquiry into child sexual abuse is "distracting from the issues". Failed Tory leadership contender Robert Jenrick, however, has stood by his partys demand for a new national inquiry. He also defended his comment that the grooming gangs problem is linked to immigrants from Pakistan who had an alien culture with medieval attitudes. Mr Jenrick told the BBC: We know from the Jay report that British Pakistani men were over represented as members of these gangs. Many selected their victims because they were white and viewed them as worthless as a result. Mr Jenrick denied the Conservatives had failed to address the issue in government and said: We need to make sure not a single vulnerable girl is facing torture or rape. Much of the debate has been dominated by a war of words between Mr Musk and Sir Keir Starmer, with the prime minister finally hitting back on Monday to accuse the billionaire of crossing a line. Mr Musk has dubbed safeguarding minister Jess Philliips a rape genocide apologist for rejecting calls for a new inquiry into grooming gangs, while he has called for her and Sir Keir to be jailed. On Monday Sir Keir came out fighting, accusing Mr Musk and right-wing populists of spreading lies about child abuse grooming gangs. 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. open image in gallery Keir Starmer defended his record of prosecuting grooming gangs from attacks by Elon Musk ( PA Wire ) Prof Jay declined to answer when asked whether she felt Mr Musk knew what was going on in Oldham, where the council has been refused a public inquiry, but said: "I have heard very little in the last few days about the appalling and lifelong effects that child sexual abuse can have on people." "I am pleased that the subject matter and the inquiry recommendations are finally getting the attention they deserve but this is definitely not the way I would have chosen for it to happen, but it has had the effect of moving on the agenda," she said. Yvette Cooper on Monday announced that professionals who work with children will face criminal sanctions if they do not report child sexual abuse, a key recommendation from the IICSA. Prof Jay agreed the plans for new legislation introduced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on Monday had happened quicker than it might otherwise have done. "It (the row) may well have given it some kind of impetus to move forward," she said. Victims minister Alex Davies-Jones on Tuesday said Labour is working at pace to implement all the recommendations. 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 Gordon Brown has hit back at Elon Musks claim he committed an unforgivable crime against the British people over the grooming gangs scandal. The former prime minister said the Tesla tycoons attack was a complete fabrication and accused him of propagating outright lies about the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. After a war of words between Mr Musk and Sir Keir Starmer, the worlds richest man turned his fire on the Labour grandee. His attacks centred on a claim circulating on social media that Mr Browns government sent a circular to British police forces in 2008 telling them victims have made an informed choice about their sexual behaviour and to not get involved. open image in gallery Gordon Brown said Elon Musks attacks were baseless ( PA Wire ) Responding to a clip allegedly showing ex-police officer Dion Miller making the claim, Mr Musk said: What?? Explain yourself, Gordon Brown. In a series of posts on X, formerly Twitter, he added: Gordon Brown sold those little girls for votes. Gordon Brown committed an unforgivable crime against the British people. In a statement on Monday night, a spokesman for Mr Brown said: There is no basis for such allegations at all. They are a complete fabrication. There is no foundation whatsoever for alleging that Mr Brown sent, approved or was in anyway involved with issuing a circular or statement to the police because it did not happen. 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. He is urging a national inquiry into the scandal, backed by the Conservatives and Reform UK, which critics say is not needed because of one concluded in 2022 by Professor Alexis Jay. And, hitting back at calls for a new national inquiry on Tuesday, Prof Jay told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: The time has passed for more inquiries, weve had enough Weve set out the action required, and people should just get on with it, nationally and locally. She refused to discuss Mr Musk but said she is very unhappy about the way many people, sometimes in an uninformed way, have waded into the argument. Labour has committed to implementing the 20 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. Yvette Cooper on Monday said that, as part of the process, professionals who work with children will face criminal sanctions if they do not report child sexual abuse. Prof Jay added that the government had likely acted sooner than it otherwise would have on the move because of the current political pressure. Mr Browns forceful pushback on Monday night follows Sir Keirs initial reluctance to directly hit back at misleading claims Mr Musk had made about his own record as director of public prosecutions before entering politics. After days of attacks over the grooming gangs scandal, Sir Keir eventually on Monday said the billionaire and others spreading lies about child abuse have crossed a line. open image in gallery Tesla owner Elon Musk has repeatedly criticised the PM on his social media platform, X (Leon Neal/PA) ( PA Archive ) 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. In his own statement, a spokesman for Mr Brown debunked the claim being used to attack him, adding: The original source of this allegation has expressly accepted that Mr Brown was not involved at all. Moreover, there is no evidence that such words attributed to him by Elon Musk have ever been used by Mr Brown, because he neither said nor did them. open image in gallery Keir Starmer defended his record of prosecuting grooming gangs from attacks by Elon Musk ( PA Wire ) The former PM said the priority for everyone in public life should be securing justice for survivors, punishment for perpetrators and action by the government to ensure the horrific crimes can never happen again. That collective endeavour is undermined when some individuals and media outlets instead propagate outright lies about the reasons these crimes happened in the past, Mr Browns spokesman added. 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 has said he hopes to mend his relationship with Elon Musk when he travels to the US for Donald Trumps inauguration, after the two men had a bitter falling out this week. He also attempted to step up the pressure on Sir Keir Starmer over grooming gangs, claiming his Reform party would be prepared to set up an unofficial inquiry within weeks if the government did not. At the weekend the billionaire X owner called for Mr Farage to be replaced as Reform leader in a very public spat over jailed far-right political activist Tommy Robinson. The row came just days after Mr Farage called the worlds richest man, and close ally of US president-elect Donald Trump, a hero and said he was making Reform look cool. Hours after Mr Farage praised Mr Musk on live television, the tycoon declared: The Reform party needs a new leader. Farage doesnt have what it takes. open image in gallery Elon Musk called for Nigel Farage to be replaced as Reform leader ( Getty ) He then went on to appear to endorse Rupert Lowe, one of the partys five MPs, as a replacement. Hitting back, Mr Farage said he would never sell out, amid rumours Mr Musk was considering giving Reform $100m (80m). He 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. During a phone-in on LBC on Tuesday, Mr Farage said that although Mr Musk's support was not "crucial", Reform would be weaker without it. He said: "Not having Elon's support would damage us with that younger generation because he kind of makes us look cool, so I'm being frank about that, and I am confident that whatever has been said, we can mend. I really think we can." He insisted, however, it would have been more damaging for him to have backed calls to "embrace" Robinson. open image in gallery President-elect Donald Trump is due to be inaugurated later this month ( PA ) He said he would travel to America for "four or five days" later this month to attend Donald Trump's inauguration and hoped to meet Mr Musk and repair their relationship. "Of course I want his support; of course I will talk to him in America in a few days' time; of course I want to mend any broken fences that might exist. I'm sure we can do it," he said. He also said his party would be prepared to set up an unofficial inquiry into grooming gangs if the government did not act within "a few weeks". He told LBC radio: "I honestly believe that through the police, through social services, through the last days of the Labour government, through the entirety of the last Conservative government, there has been a concerted attempt to play this down for fear of what it might do, for fear of being called racist. "The irony is that the attacks themselves were racist. This was anti-white female racism. Of that, I have no doubt." His party would not be able to hold an official inquiry nor compel witnesses to attend. However, Mr Farage suggested there would be a public outcry against those who did not cooperate. "I will have no difficulty in raising the money to do this, whatsoever. We'll appoint independent ex-judges and experts," he said. "I won't have the statutory powers but I tell you what, I think this would garner such massive public support that anybody asked to appear that didn't appear would look terrible." open image in gallery Musk also hit out at safeguarding minister Jess Phillips ( PA Wire ) He also declined to criticise Mr Musk over his description of safeguarding minister Jess Phillips as a "rape genocide apologist" after she turned down a request from Oldham Council for a Whitehall-led inquiry into child sexual abuse in the town. Ms Phillips had said the government's preference was for a local-led inquiry, in line with the previous government's decision on a similar request from Telford Council. On Monday, Sir Keir hit out at Mr Musk's tweet, saying a line has been crossed" and Ms Phillips and others had received threats as a result of the "poison of the far right". Mr Farage said that, while he did not "concur" with the description of Ms Phillips, it did not go "beyond the line" of what was acceptable. He said: "If he was inciting violence, then that would be going beyond the line at which free speech is acceptable. "It's very, very strong language and it offends many, but then free speech should be able to offend many." He also reiterated that he would not take legal action against Kemi Badenoch over her claim Reform UK had faked its membership numbers. And he said has bought a house in Clacton, after criticism over how much time he was spending in his constituency. Thats why you can see me out, often on a Saturday morning, out buying the essentials limes, tonic, all that sort of thing, he added. He also said he was planning a "massive event" for small businesses in Clacton later this month and was "out meeting constituents I bet far more than any MP has done for many, many years in Clacton". An Aussie who has lived in Bali for years is warning travellers of the "unassuming" insect found everywhere in the tourist hotspot that can ruin your holiday and even "change your skin forever". Montana Lowrey-Palmer told Yahoo News she's had a run-in with one of the infamous tomcat beetles before but was shocked by how narrowly she dodged contact with one this week. "I put my phone down next to it and it almost crawled on my phone. As soon as I saw it I picked my phone up, I freaked out," she explained. "Luckily I didn't swat it away because it doesn't even have to bite you, it has an acid that gets on your skin and does the damage." Montana explained the insect could have been easily mistaken for an ant but the tomcat beetle is differentiated by their colouration and venom which is more potent than the venom of a cobra. The insects don't bite, so they're not lethal, but they pose extreme skin irritation which can result in severe welts, burns, and even scarring. "I remember having this welt on my leg and I didn't know what it was from. It was quite small, probably only the size of my thumb... but I discovered it was from a tomcat... I still have a scar three years later," Montana said. 'Tiny' tomcat beetles are easily mistaken for ants. Source: TikTok/montana.ontour Montana is not the first Aussie to make contact with tomcat beetles in Bali and admitted she got off "relatively unscathed" after hearing about Natalie Carroll, the 24-year-old who suffered severe burns after a run-in with a tomcat beetle while holidaying in November. ADVERTISEMENT The Gold Coast woman told Yahoo News at the time that she believed she must have brushed one off her while she was sleeping. "I've brushed it off and now I have this on me, it's insane... and it's painful," she said, referring to the large blisters on her leg. Natalie Carroll, 24, was left with severe welts on her legs after making contact with a tomcat in November. Source: Supplied In 2023, a Mudgee nurse was left with a "big yellow oozing" blister on her leg after making contact with a tomcat beetle, explaining they were "everywhere" but she hadn't thought anything of them. Aussies warned to 'run' if a tomcat beetle is spotted Montana has urged travellers to keep an eye out for the insects and avoid them completely. "If you ever see this animal in Bali, literally run," she said. "I just couldn't believe how casual and tiny it was to inflict so much carnage and damage on people." ADVERTISEMENT This message was echoed by Dr Swaid Abdullah an expert in veterinary parasitology. "If we crush the beetle, the toxin is released and absorbed by our skin," he explained to Yahoo News previously. Therefore, avoiding them is best. If skin contact is made with a tomcat beetle, it is best to immediately wash the area with soapy water and use "cold wet compresses" to soothe it. "This can help since the toxin penetrates the skin slowly. Washing immediately after exposure can help remove much of the toxin before it has time to harm the skin," he said. "Afterwards, use cold wet compresses and seek medical help if it gets worse." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. 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 Austrian far-right leader Herbert Kickl said Tuesday in his first comments after being tasked to form a new government that he aspires to govern Austria honestly as he prepared for talks on a potential coalition with conservatives who criticized him sharply in the past. Kickl said he's prepared for new elections if they fail. His Russia-friendly, anti-immigration, euroskeptic Freedom Party won Austria's parliamentary election in September but was initially shunned by other parties. Their efforts to put together a coalition without it failed. On Monday, Kickl received a mandate to try to form what would be the first national government led by the far right since World War II. That came after the conservative Austrian Peoples Party of outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammer, who announced his resignation Saturday, made an abrupt U-turn on its previous refusal to contemplate working with the Freedom Party under Kickl. Kickl a 56-year-old with a provocative style made clear he hasn't forgotten past friction with the People's Party. Nehammer has described him as a security risk. The party's interim leader, Christian Stocker, said during the election campaign that anyone voting for Kickl is voting for five years of high risk with radical ideas. Our country was driven into the wall in the past five years, Kickl said, pointing in particular to Austria's large budget deficit and what he said was a massive trust deficit accumulated by mainstream parties. He said he has a very, very simple aim, and that is to govern Austria honestly. Kickl said he is reaching out to Stocker, and you can believe me, that isn't easy for me either we have an interesting past together but it is honest. Kickl added he has clear expectations, including an awareness of who won the election, and who finished second and isn't the winner. He also demanded an understanding of who is responsible for the mistakes of the past and a partner with stable and consistent leadership. If this isn't assured ... I can say that's it, Kickl said. Then there will be new elections we are prepared for that. The Freedom Party won 28.8% of the vote in September. That was a nearly 13-point gain from five years earlier, when the party was punished by voters following the collapse of a conservative-led government in which it was the junior partner amid a scandal surrounding the Freedom Party's then-leader. The Austrian Peoples Party came in second with 26.3% and the center-left Social Democrats, post-war Austria's other traditional big party, were third with 21.1%. The Freedom Party's poll ratings have risen since the election as its rivals struggled and failed to find common ground. Surveys published in December put its support at between 35% and 37%. Kickl didn't address any specific policies for Austria, a member of the European Union but not NATO, in his lengthy statement to reporters. He took no questions. The Freedom Party is part of a right-wing populist alliance in the European Parliament, Patriots for Europe, which includes the parties of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and of the Netherlands Geert Wilders, whose party dominates the Netherlands new government. Nehammer has said he will step down on Friday. It's not clear who will serve as interim chancellor while Kickl explores a possible coalition. ___ Moulson reported from Berlin. 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 Kemi Badenoch has been urged to sack Robert Jenrick after he suggested the Tories could cap immigration from alien cultures with medieval attitudes towards women. The shadow justice secretary stood by his claim that Britain has failed at integrating immigrants from some countries, pointing to the grooming gangs scandal as evidence. The scandal started with the onset of mass migration importing hundreds of thousands of people from alien cultures, who possess medieval attitudes towards women, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, last week. open image in gallery Robert Jenrick has not rowed back on his controversial comments ( PA ) Mr Jenrick has been accused of jumping on the bandwagon after the issue was pushed by tech billionaire Elon Musk with a series of attacks on Sir Keir Starmer and safeguarding minister Jess Phillips. He has not condemned Mr Musks language and appeared to be aping the far-right rhetoric even though the worlds richest man has been openly supporting far-right extremists such as Tommy Robinson and Alternative for Deutschland (AfD) in Germany. Pressed about his language against Muslims on Tuesday, Mr Jenrick told GB News that Britain has welcomed millions of people in recent years and some of them have backwards, frankly medieval attitudes to women. The comments came after days of calls for a fresh national inquiry into grooming gangs, fuelled by Mr Musk and backed by the Conservatives. The Tories have demanded a new UK-wide inquiry into child sexual abuse, despite a wide-ranging independent probe having concluded its work in 2022. On Wednesday, Ms Badenochs party will bring forward an amendment to the Governments Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill which is expected to call for ministers to establish a national statutory inquiry into historical child sexual exploitation, focused on grooming gangs. Shadow education minister Neil OBrien claimed the Government was blocking a full national inquiry, adding: This cannot stand, so the Conservatives have tabled an amendment to their Childrens Wellbeing and Schools Bill to call for an inquiry. Labour MPs now have a first chance to vote to give victims answers and justice, and pass an amendment that will make clear that the will of Parliament is for a national inquiry. But if they fail to do so, the Conservatives will not back down, and will continue to amend the Bill at every opportunity. It came as friends of Mr Jenrick told The Independent that he still harbours ambitions to be Tory leader amid speculation that Ms Badenoch may not survive. Recent defections by former Tories like Marco Longhi and Dame Andrea Jenkyns to Reform UK has led one senior Tory to speculate that Mr Jenrick, who was runner-up to Ms Badenoch last autumn, is unsackable, adding: She knows theres a danger of him walking over to Reform or at very least thousands more defecting. Asked by BBC Radio 4s Today programme whether that meant the Conservatives would limit immigration among those with such attitudes, Mr Jenrick said: I think that we have to be very careful about who is coming into this country, the scale and pace of that immigration so that we can have a much more successful integration policy than we have today. He added: I have always said, and it is a point made by Kemi Badenoch, the leader of my party, that not all cultures are equal. We should be very careful about who is coming into this country and the scale of immigration. Pakistan was among the countries Mr Jenrick singled out as one of those from which people come with medieval attitudes. And BBC presenter Nick Robinson asked him: Does Sajid Javids family come with a medieval culture to this country? Does Sadiq Khans family have a medieval [culture]? How are you going to identify those who are acceptable and those who are not? The Liberal Democrats called for Ms Badenoch to sack her shadow cabinet colleague. But a spokesperson for Ms Badenoch said the Lib Dems should spend less time worrying about tweets and explain why they oppose a fresh inquiry into the grooming scandal. open image in gallery Kemi Badenoch is being urged to sack Robert Jenrick ( PA ) Mr Jenrick was also condemned on Sunday over his original comments by the former Conservative Party special adviser Samuel Kasumu, who told the BBC his blood was boiling over the comments. He said: I dont think that Elon Musk or Nigel Farage are the most dangerous individuals in our country. I think Robert Jenrick has the potential to be the most divisive person in our political history. I think some of his words over the last 12 months may result in some people maybe even dying because he has the potential to incite hatred in ways that I have never seen. Ms Badenoch defended her colleague, saying it was important to have tough conversations, no matter how difficult that may be to hear. But Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper said Ms Badenoch should sack him, calling his comments shameless. open image in gallery Daisy Cooper said Robert Jenrick was exploiting the grooming gangs scandal ( PA Wire ) He didnt lift a finger to help the victims when a minister, now hes jumping on the bandwagon and acting like a pound shop Farage, she said. Kemi Badenoch should sack him as shadow justice secretary and condemn his divisive comments, instead of letting him run a leadership campaign under her nose. Amnesty International said Mr Jenrick should spend his time supporting efforts to tackle sexual offenders rather than spreading divisive and ill-informed rhetoric. Gender justice director Chiara Capraro said: Violence against women and girls is endemic in all corners of our society and successive governments and institutions have failed to tackle it. The horrors of child abuse deserve a serious response, not the blatant prejudice and hostile commentary targeting minorities were currently seeing. Politicians like Mr Jenrick should be supporting all serious efforts to bring the perpetrators of sexual offences to justice and doing so without resorting to divisive and ill-informed rhetoric about migration. Refugee Council chief executive Enver Solomon added: It can never be right to judge a whole community by the actions of a group of individuals. After the 2024 riots, which saw violent mobs chanting stop the boats as they attacked refugees, it is clear that political rhetoric has consequences. Labelling migrants and refugees as dangerous or medieval just adds fire to a debate that has already become too toxic and divisive. A spokesperson for Kemi Badenoch said: Robert Jenrick did an excellent job this morning explaining the pressing need for a national inquiry into the rape gangs scandal. The Lib Dems should spend less time worrying about tweets, and instead explain to the British people why they oppose an inquiry that would end the culture of cover ups in our institutions and finally get justice for the victims. 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 Jess Phillips has spoken about her fears for her life for the first time since Elon Musk unleashed a torrent of abuse against her over the child grooming scandal. The safeguarding minister found herself at the centre of an international storm when she decided not to agree to a national inquiry into child grooming and rape across towns in the north of England because one had already been conducted. The attacks were led by the X social media platform boss who described her as a witch and a rape genocide apologist as well as taking aim at prime minister Keir Starmer who yesterday defended his minister. Musk's extraordinary attacks came in response to Ms Phillips rejecting a request for the government to lead a public inquiry into child sexual exploitation in Oldham. Speaking to ITV News, Ms Phillips admitted she was still reeling from the experience. open image in gallery Jess Phillips (Jordan Pettitt/PA) ( PA Wire ) She said: Of course I worry about my safety. Of course, and you have to, you know, anyone who has worked in the fields of violence against women and girls. Risk is dynamic and I have to take account of the risks in my life and this is one of them currently. Ms Phillips described Musks allegations against her being part of a conspiracy to cover up the scandals to protect Labour politicians as ridiculous. She said: The things that hes saying are so ridiculous as to initially make me just go what? But then you wake up with the realisation that thats millions of people that he has said that to and you feel immediately like this is going to turn my world upside down and I have to try and limit for how long that is the case. But you know, your immediate, my immediate thought was like just, its sort of like, what a joke. And then the realisation of what this is probably going to mean for you. The South African-born American billionaire has even tried to justify his actions by harking back to his British grandmother who he said used to clean peoples houses. Already an individual in the south west of England has been charged with making threats against Ms Phillips. The minister, who has been a campaigner for womens rights and against domestic violence, admitted: The thing that annoys me the most about it is it takes up so much bandwidth of my time from a man who knows absolutely nothing about the subject he's talking about. When the only thing I ever want to be doing is being able to use all of my brain power to focus on the hundreds of girls I have supported over the years who have been victims of grooming gangs and what needs to happen to make their lives better. And to stop what is still happening today. open image in gallery Elon Musk (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA) ( PA Archive ) But she questioned why the Tories have been supportive of Mr Musks claims especially as they did little to help the victims of the Asian grooming gangs in their 14 years in power. I wonder how much Chris Philp or Kemi Badenoch have been involved or even read the documents that came out of Telford, or in fact, any of the inquiries that have already happened. I watched what happened there and I saw a process. That was the only one that has ever done anything to actually change the way the council, the local police, the local CPS, have actually changed and I took part in that process for years. And so actually, no, when I was asked to make that decision, my instinct was to try and get for Oldham what Id seen in Telford, which was locally led, a locally led independent inquiry. However, despite her ordeal, Ms Phillips insisted that it was nothing compared to what the victims of rape by Asian gangs had suffered. The few days of madness is nothing compared to the decades sat in police stations with girls bleeding from a battering that theyve taken from a grooming gang. So Ill put on my big girl pants and just suck it up. 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 Ministers are to crack down on sexually explicit deepfake images, as the practice will become a criminal offence. Those who take intimate images of other people without their consent, or who install equipment to take these pictures, could meanwhile face up to two years behind bars under new offences. Justice minister Alex Davies-Jones said perpetrators of the new offences would face the full force of the law. While we welcome this announcement, we are yet to see a timeline for the offence or any details about the new law, which will be crucial to how effective it is Rebecca Hitchen, End Violence Against Women Coalition Deepfakes are images generated or edited using artificial intelligence featuring real people. The number of these false images has spread widely in recent years, and they can often be explicit in nature. With the new deepfakes offence, the Government will target people who are both creating and sharing these images. This builds on offences aimed at clamping down on the sharing of intimate images, including deepfakes, introduced in 2023. Plans to outlaw the taking of intimate images without consent will meanwhile streamline existing laws, which have been described as a patchwork by the Law Commission. Ms Davies-Jones said: It is unacceptable that one in three women have been victims of online abuse. This demeaning and disgusting form of chauvinism must not become normalised, and as part of our Plan for Change we are bearing down on violence against women whatever form it takes. These new offences will help prevent people being victimised online. We are putting offenders on notice they will face the full force of the law. Broadcaster Jess Davies, who has raised awareness about deepfakes, was among the campaigners who welcomed the plans. She said intimate-image abuse is a national emergency that is causing significant, long-lasting harm to women and girls who face a total loss of control over their digital footprint, at the hands of online misogyny. Women should not have to accept sexual harassment and abuse as a normal part of their online lives, we need urgent action and legislation to better protect women and girls from the mammoth scale of misogyny they are experiencing online, Ms Davies added. The End Violence Against Women Coalition (EVAW) meanwhile urged the Government to set out a timeline for introducing its plans. Rebecca Hitchen, head of policy and campaigns at EVAW, said: While we welcome this announcement, we are yet to see a timeline for the offence or any details about the new law, which will be crucial to how effective it is. The Government must make good on its commitments to survivors delaying action will only put women and girls in harms way. We await confirmation that any new law criminalising the creation of sexually explicit deepfakes will be based on consent rather than the perpetrators intent, cover solicitation of image creation (as well as the creation itself), and be listed as a priority offence in the Online Safety Act. 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 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. 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 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. 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. Ms Hasina, Bangladeshs longest-serving prime minister, is now in India after being ousted in August following weeks of violent anti-government protests. 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 ) 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. 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. 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 ) 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. 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 home secretary has announced the professionals who work with children will face criminal sanctions if they do not report child sexual abuse. Yvette Cooper told MPs that a significant package of measures will be announced by the government in the next few weeks aimed at tackling online child sexual exploitation. She also defended her decision not to launch a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal, despite calls from Reform UK and Conservative politicians, as well an online backlash from multi-billionaire Elon Musk. Ms Cooper raised concerns in the Commons about how police forces collect data, describing it as haphazard, before claiming data published on the ethnicity of perpetrators is not adequate. Announcing new measures, she said: 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. open image in gallery Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is embroiled in a public spat with Elon Musk (Leon Neal/PA) ( PA Wire ) The protection of institutions must never be put before the protection of children. This measure is something I first called for in response to the reports and failings in Rotherham 10 years ago. Its something that the Prime Minister 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. She also said that the government plans to introduce a victims and survivors panel to oversee reforms and make grooming an aggravating factor in child sexual offences. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp repeated calls for a national inquiry and was met with shouts of shame from the Labour benches as he said: 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. Responding, Ms Cooper said: The truth is there just has not been enough action to tackle these vile crimes. There hasnt 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. open image in gallery Yvette Cooper defended her decision not to launch a national inquiry into the scandal (Russell Cheyne/PA) ( PA Wire ) Ms Cooper said Labour called for it to be mandatory to report abuse 10 years ago, adding: We called for it 10 years ago. He had a decade in order to introduce that, a decade that we have now lost without having those powers and those measures in place. She continued: I would just say to him, his party launched the child abuse inquiry, they set the terms of reference, they provided the substantial funding for it, and he could have raised concerns about its terms of reference, about the scope of it, about the extent of its reports at any point, including at any point since it reported. And he didnt do so until last week. Mr Philp also asked the home secretary to confirm if data from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse on the ethnicity of perpetrators will be published. Ms Cooper replied: Its already been published, it was published in November, the latest report was published in November as a result of the work of the taskforce. I would just say to him, though, I dont think that the data that they have gathered actually is adequate. I dont think it goes far enough. I think theres a real problem with the way in which we collect data, and police forces collect data. It comes as 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. 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. 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 Mondays certification by Congress of President-elect Donald Trumps victory in the 2024 presidential election was the first official step in the peaceful transfer of power. From outside the White House to the U.S. Capitol, the streets of Washington were blanketed in freshly fallen snow, the wintry scene providing the only complications to members of the House and Senate carrying out their duties to affirm the election results. It was a marked contrast to the same proceedings four years earlier, on Jan. 6, 2021, when Trumps supporters flooded the capital citys streets and, ultimately, the same chamber where federal legislators were attempting to gather and carry out their prescribed duty. That day would ultimately devolve into violence, deaths and hundreds of cases against those charged with unlawful acts related to the attack. Photographers from The Associated Press were present on both days, capturing in real time the violence and aftermath in 2021 and, in 2025, retracing their own steps, visiting the locations around Washington that played key roles on that fateful day and capturing images that make possible a side-by-side comparison of what differences can be marked in just a few years. From the Washington Monument to the White House to the U.S. Capitol, where rioters unleashed the most violent attack on the seat of American legislative power in 200 years, and Congress four years later carried out an uneventful and peaceful certification, the AP was there. 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 U.S. President Joe Bidens decision to reject a bid by Nippon Steel to acquire U.S. Steel on national security grounds isnt the first time friction over trade and investment has irked Washingtons closest ally in Asia. There have been plenty of scraps over trade in the past few decades, and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken sought to smooth ruffled feathers in a visit to Tokyo on Tuesday. Nippon Steel Chief Executive Eiji Hashimoto said the top Japanese steelmaker was standing firm on its proposed $15 billion friendly acquisition. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Biden administrations decision. But the assertion that the proposed deal could threaten U.S. national security has stung. Many in Japan see the decision as a betrayal by Washington after decades of U.S. pressure to lift barriers to investment and trade. The timing doesnt help, with Japanese businesses already bracing for potentially damaging tariff hikes once President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was blunt in warning that spoiling the deal might hurt Japanese investment in the U.S. Here are some key issues at stake: Making nice While in Tokyo in a farewell tour before Biden leaves office, Blinken told reporters he believes that during the past four years the alliance with Japan has grown stronger than it's ever been before. Japan and the U.S. are mutually the largest investors in each other's economies, he noted, strengthening the foundation for many years to come. Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the U.S. Steel decision came up during Blinken's meeting with Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya. But it said only that the two sides had reaffirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. economic relations, including investment in the U.S. by Japanese companies. Harsh words Before Blinken's visit, Ishiba, who has struggled to build support and momentum since he took office in October, was emphatic. As for why national security was cited as an issue, it must be clearly explained. Otherwise, future discussions on the matter will come to naught, he said Monday. "No matter how much we are an ally, I believe that the points I have just made are extremely important for our future relations. He said, It is an unfortunate fact that Japanese industry has voiced concerns about future investment between the U.S. and Japan. We have to take this very seriously. Japan's Trade Minister Yoji Muto said the decision was very regrettable. Headlines in Japanese newspapers mainly focused on Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel's plan to fight the ruling in court. US-Japan alliance Japan is the biggest and most important U.S. ally in Asia, a relationship forged during the U.S. occupation following Japan's 1945 defeat in World War II. Nearly 63,000 troops are stationed at dozens of facilities across the country and Washington has urged Japan to build up its own defense capabilities as a counterweight to China's growing influence and military power. Japan counts on the U.S. to provide an umbrella of defense against its neighbors China, Russia and North Korea. Some critics have chafed at the decision to reject Nippon Steel's bid for U.S. Steel, saying Washington was treating Japan like it does China, a potential adversary. When is an ally not a partner? Apparently when a Japanese company seeks to purchase an iconic U.S. corporation, The newspaper The Japan Times said in an editorial. It described the concerns over national security as incomprehensible, adding Trust has been greatly damaged and it is unclear what will be required to undo the harm. Track record on trade Biden and Trump have both supported higher tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum from China, saying they are needed to insulate American producers from unfair trade practices and a flood of cheap imports. In 2018, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on imports of Japanese steel on national security grounds. The Biden administration agreed to a deal in 2022 to allow a certain quota of some steel products to be imported tariff-free. Any above that amount is subject to the 25% tariff. Today's trade frictions follow decades of negotiations that have led Japan to open its markets much more widely to foreign goods and services, transforming its retailing from mostly old-style department stores and mom-and-pop shops into outlet malls and big discount stores. Such gai-atsu, or foreign pressure, led Japanese automakers and other manufacturers chose to invest in U.S. factories, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel contend their deal would save American jobs, and business groups on both sides have objected to seeing the deal fall through as part of a broad shift in recent years away from greater openness. 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 Chaos unfolded at a California shopping mall as a group of teenagers brazenly raced through a food court on dirt bikes. The suspects, all believed to be minors, drove two motorcycles at high speed through the Town Center Mall in Valencia, Santa Clarita, on Saturday. In a tragic turn of events, police belive that one of the riders, a 14-year-old boy, was killed that same evening following a head one collision just two miles from the shopping center. Cellphone footage, which has been circulating online, shows the rambunctious riders hurtling through a food court amongst pedestrians including a group of children eating in a booth. The riders, which include two drives and one teen sitting on the back of the bike, were filmed sporting dark clothing without helmets, flailing their arms, and revving their motors through the mall. Chris Hernandez, a restaurant manager at the mall, said the suspects managed to evade mall security adding it was slow to respond. open image in gallery Police are looking for three suspects who raced through a Santa Clarita shopping mall on dirt bikes over the weeked ( KTLA/YouTube ) It was loud. I saw the motorcycles come up through the mall, Hernandez told local news station KTLA. To me, its a big no-no because theres little kids all over the place and somebodys going to end up getting hurt. Another food court employee said theyd seen other instances of dirt bikes being ridden through the mall in the past year. No arrests have yet been made, but the motorcyclists could face felony charges, according to Sergeant Guillermo Martinez of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Office. He said that authorities will be taking a zero-tolerance approach, telling the news station: If we see it, we will either cite, confiscate, arrest or impound depending on what the circumstances are, but we are ramping up enforcement. open image in gallery The dirt bike riders drove dangerously close to a group of children eating inside the food court ( KTLA/YouTube ) The Sheriffs Office said it will send out special enforcement teams on ATVs and motorcycles to chase down rogue riders, many of whom are believed to have been bought the bikes as gifts over the holidays. Deputy Robert Jensen, spokesman for the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriffs Station, said that officials have been made aware of the video circulating on social media but could not confirm that the child who was killed was one of the riders in the video. The victims identity has not yet been disclosed by authorities. However, a woman who has identified herself as the aunt of the victim told The Santa Clarita Valley Signal that she could identify her nephew as the driver of the first dirt bike in the food court footage. open image in gallery One of the riders may have died in a traffic collision less than an hour later, just a few miles away from the Valencia mall, authorities say ( KTLA/YouTube ) A 14-year-old boy riding a dirt bike was involved in the traffic accident after riding on the wrong side of the road at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Oak Ridge Drive at about 9.49 p.m. on Saturday evening, according to Jensen. The bike, which was not street legal, collided head-to-head with an oncoming van, authorities said. The Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived at the scene and treated the boy before he was transported to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital, whow as in critical condition. The victim was pronounced dead at 7:32 a.m. on Sunday after succumbing to his injuries according to authorities. 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 Neonatal nurse Erin Elizabeth Strotman, 26, of Chesterfield County in Virginia, has been charged and booked with malicious wounding and felony child abuse concerning an incident around November 10 2024 where one infant suffered unexplainable fractures, according to the Henrico County Police. Strotman stood in court Friday, faced with the families of several other babies who were left with broken bones after being treated inside of the hospital where she was employed. Officials have refused to say how many babies were abused or specifics on the nature of injuries. After combing through dozens of videos from inside the NICU, investigators are trying to ascertain what caused at least seven babies to suffer from broken bones while in the care of medical professionals, reported The Washington Post . The hospital announced last week that it would stop admitting babies into the NICU until the suspect was found. The Independent contacted Henrico County Police, Henrico Commonwealths Attorney Shannon Taylor the Virginia Department of Health Professions, ECPI University, and HCA Healthcare for comment. Strotman is arrested Strotman was arrested and charged with felony child abuse and malicious wounding Friday in connection to an ongoing investigation involving a Henrico Doctors Hospitals Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), stated Henrico Police . She was picked up by detectives Thursday January 2, a Henrico police spokesperson told The Independent. The nurse was identified as a suspect in the case for an incident on or around November 10 2024 but detectives are re-examining cases that occurred in the summer of 2023 and fall of 2024. Her employment contract at the hospital was also terminated Thursday, reported 12onyourside. However, in court on Friday, it was revealed that the nurse was still being paid during Thanksgiving week in 2024 and was unaware that she had been fired, reported ABC8 News . 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 has been a registered nurse in Virginia since May 2019 Strotman was reportedly placed on paid administrative leave for a year following the emergence of child abuse reports in the NICU in 2023, and was allowed to return in the fall of 2024, said 12onyourside. Henrico Countys Commonwealths Attorney Shannon Taylor confirmed to ABC8 News that she had been employed at the hospital both in 2023 and in 2024 and had since had her employment terminated. 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. Strotman became a registered nurse May 30 2019, according to the Virginia Department of Health Professions. She studied to be a nurse at ECPI University in Richmond, Virginia, as shown on a now-deleted Facebook profile. But it remains unclear when she began working at the Henrico Doctors Hospital NICU. She is being held at the Henrico County Jail West but has been ordered by the court to be barred from all contact with children under the age of 18, Taylor added. Taylor has not ruled out further charges, reported 12onyourside. Who are the victims? So far, only one family has decided to break anonymity, but at least three of the families were said to be in court Friday. Dominique Hackey, a father to two prematurely born twin boys spoke with The Washington Post after attending Strotmans arraignment Friday. One of his twins, 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 Washington 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. 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. 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. Henrico Doctors Hospital and Henrico Police issue statements On Friday, Henrico Doctors Hospital released a statement following 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. Henrico Chief of Police Eric D. said Friday: 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. I would also like to acknowledge the unwavering efforts of our detectives who continue to comb through hundreds of hours of footage and extend my sincere gratitude to Henricos Child Protective Services (Department of Social Services), the Henrico County Commonwealth Attorneys Office, Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Health, and the Office of the Attorney General for their assistance in this matter. Henrico 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. 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 Decades after investigators unearthed thousands of human bones and bone fragments on a suspected serial killers property, a quest is ongoing in laboratories to solve a long-running mystery: Who exactly were they? A new team working to identify the unknown says the key to their success will be getting relatives of men who vanished between the mid-1980s and the mid-1990s to provide samples of their own DNA. Those samples can then be screened against DNA profiles scientists are extracting from the remains, which were found starting in 1996 on Herbert Baumeisters sprawling suburban Indianapolis property. Investigators believed that while his family was away on trips, Baumeister, who frequented gay bars in Indianapolis, lured men to his home, where he killed and buried them. The original investigators believed that at least 25 people were buried at Baumeisters 18-acre (7.3-hectare) Fox Hollow Farm estate in Westfield, based on evidence that included 10,000 bones and bone fragments, as well as handcuffs and shotgun shells. Baumeister, a 49-year-old thrift store owner and married father of three, killed himself in Canada in July 1996 before police could question him, taking with him many secrets, including the names of his presumed victims. open image in gallery White doves are released on Aug. 29, 2024, in Westfield, Indiana, during the dedication of a memorial to the nine ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) By the late 1990s, authorities had identified eight men using dental records and available DNA technologies. But then those efforts stopped, although the remains of at least 17 people may have still been unidentified. Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison said the renewed identification effort revealed that county officials at the time decided not to fund additional DNA testing, which essentially halted further efforts to identify the victims and placed the cost of a homicide investigation on family members of missing people. I cant speak for those investigators, but it was just game over, Jellison said. open image in gallery The name of Allen Livingston is seen on a memorial, Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, in Westfield ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) As decades slipped by, the bones and fragments sat in boxes at the University of Indianapolis' Human Identification Center, whose staff helped excavate the remains. That changed after Eric Pranger sent Jellison a Facebook message in late 2022. The Indianapolis man's family had long believed his older cousin, Allen Livingston, was among Baumeisters victims. Livingston was 27 when he vanished in August 1993 after getting into someone elses car in downtown Indianapolis. After hearing about Baumeister three years later, his mother, Sharon Livingston, and other relatives began suspecting that Allen, who was bisexual, was among the dead. Jellison was about to take office when Pranger asked if he could help get some answers for his aunt, who had serious health problems. How do you say to no to that? Thats our job as coroners by statute, to identify the deceased, Jellison said. In late 2022, police took DNA samples from Sharon Livingston and one of her daughters. Jellison began working with a team that includes the Indiana State Police, the FBI, the Human Identification Center, local law enforcement and a private company that specializes in forensic genetic genealogy. open image in gallery Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison stands in his office in Noblesville, Indiana, July 11 ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Staff at the Human Identification Center, where the remains are stored in a temperature- and humidity-controlled space, selected some of the most promising bones for DNA analysis. At the Indiana State Police Laboratory, scientists cut out sections of bone, froze them with liquid nitrogen and pulverized them into a fine powder. They then used heat and chemicals to break open bone cells in the first step toward extracting a full DNA profile. Nearly a year after hearing from Pranger, Jellison announced in October 2023 that a ninth Baumeister victim had been identified: Allen Livingston. Sharon Livingston finally received some form of closure. She died in November 2024. It made me happy to be able to do this for my aunt," Pranger, 34, said. Im the one who got the ball rolling to bring her son home after 30 years and I felt privileged." After Allen was identified I was so excited and then after the fact I asked myself, `Now what? I got answers, but what about all the other families? Pranger added. open image in gallery Eric Pranger holds an Urn that contains the ashes of Allen Livingston ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Jellison said about 40 DNA samples have been submitted by people who believe a missing male relative may have been killed by Baumeister. He said those are entered into the FBIs Combined DNA Index System, or CODIS, but are used solely for identifying missing people. The coroner and his partners hope to get more DNA samples from relatives of men from across the U.S. who vanished between the mid-1980s and mid-1990s. They noted the men may have been traveling and stopped in Indianapolis to visit friends or sample its nightlife. To date, scientists have extracted eight unique DNA profiles all male from more than 70 of the 100 bones that were sent to the Indiana State Police Laboratory by Dr. Krista Latham, the Human Identification Center's director. One matched DNA samples provided by Livingstons mother and sister. Four matched four of the eight men first identified in the 1990s: Jeffrey Jones, Manuel Resendez, Johnny Bayer and Richard Hamilton. The three other DNA profiles remain unidentified and two are still undergoing testing. Those three have boosted Baumeisters presumed victims to 12. open image in gallery Dr. Krista Latham, the director of the Human Identification Center at the University of Indianapolis ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Jellison and his partners say their identification effort could take several more years to complete. Most of the bones were crushed and burned, reducing their potential to yield usable DNA. Latham, a professor of biology and anthropology, said bone fragments deemed in poor shape are being held back from the destructive testing process in hope that future DNA technologies can unlock their secrets. She noted some of the men may have been estranged from relatives or ostracized because of their sexuality. No one may have noticed when they vanished. These are individuals who were marginalized in life. And we just need to make sure that thats not continuing in death as well, Latham said. For the ongoing work, Jellison has obtained DNA reference samples from relatives of seven of the eight men originally identified in the 1990s. The eighth man, Steven Hale, was adopted and efforts to locate biological relatives have thus far failed, the coroner said. Relatives of missing men who want to provide family DNA reference samples for the effort to identify remains can contact the Indiana State Police missing persons hotline at 833-466-2653 or the Hamilton County Coroners Office at 317-770-4415. open image in gallery Shannon Doughty holds a wooden box on Aug. 29, 2024, in Westfield, Indiana, ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) As remains are identified, piece by piece, families can opt to have them cremated and interred at a memorial dedicated in August in Westfield. It includes a plaque with the names of the nine identified victims, with room for more names. Linda Znachko, whose nonprofit Indianapolis-based ministry He Knows Your Name, paid for the monument, said at the memorial's dedication that the identification campaign "will bring honor to those who lost their lives at the Fox Hollow tragedy. Remains belonging to Livingston and Jeffrey Jones were added to the memorial's ossuary and white doves were released during the dedication. Livingstons younger sister, Shannon Doughty, attended with several relatives, including Pranger. She said it was a relief finally knowing what happened to her brother, despite his tragic end. At least you know, said Doughty, 46. The fear of the unknown is the worst right? So just knowing, its a multitude of emotions. You wanted to know but you didnt want to know. But you needed to know. 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 Hooters waitress with an alleged .318 blood alcohol level - more than four times the legal driving limit - was caught attempting to flirt her way out of a traffic stop on bodycam footage. Sophia Ross, 22, who has pleaded not guilty, was pulled over by the Sarasota Police Department in mid-November and has been charged with a DUI, police confirmed. However, the body camera footage from the arrest has recently gone viral. Another driver called the police after he spotted Ross stopping at green lights and hitting several curbs in the city of Sarasota, Florida, according to an affidavit seen by The Independent. When officers found Ross, she had stopped the car and was asleep at the wheel in the stopped vehicle, the affidavit said. In the bodycam footage, Ross, wearing a Hooters sweater, was asked to perform a sobriety test by an officer, where she called him daddy. open image in gallery Sophia Ross, 22, was caught on bodycam footage flirting with an officer as she was stopped for suspicion of DUI ( Sarasota Police Department ) Do you want to try this first exercise for me? the officer asked. I will do anything for you, daddy, Ross replied in a seductive tone. God damn. You in that suit. I would do f*****g anything for you. The officer asked Ross multiple times to complete the sobriety test, explaining that he needed to seek her consent. Were gonna make out here, Ross replied at one point. No were not, the officer bluntly responded. open image in gallery Ross flirted with the officer while he tried to get her to carry out a sobriety test. Police said her blood alcohol content was more than four times the legal driving limit ( Sarasota Police Department ) open image in gallery Ross referred to the officer as daddy during the exchange ( Sarasota Police Department ) The officer kept his composure and was occasionally heard laughing. When informed that she was being recorded with a bodycam, Ross put her face up to the lens and pulled up her sweatshirt. You talk to the camera, you hold this, I will talk to the camera, she said, while pulling her top. Youre taking me home, she said to the officer. I want you. Youre taking me home right? You are taking me home. The officer pointed out that everything is recorded on bodycam and is public record. Anybody can see thatMom, dad, grandma, family, he said. I just want you to You think I give a f***? Ross responded. She refused to complete the sobriety test and complied with officers when they handcuffed her. As police led her into the car, she shouted, I have to pee you guys. open image in gallery Ross is eventually put in the back of a police car after she refused sobriety tests ( Sarasota Police Department ) When the officer asked if anyone could collect Rosss car, she said to the officer: You. The exchange lasted more than 30 minutes, when officers eventually managed to take Ross away in a police car. Sarasota Police Department said that the incident is a reminder of the dangerous consequences of driving while under the influence. The legal driving limit is .08 and Ross had a blood alcohol content of .318, authorities say. While the video circulating online may seem amusing to some, its important to remember the serious and dangerous consequences of impaired driving, Sarasota Polices public information officer Cynthia McLaughlin told The Independent. Our officer maintained professionalism throughout the encounter, ensuring that this driver, whose breath test results were more than four times the legal limit, was safely taken off the road. McLaughlin added: This incident is a stark reminder of the risks posed by impaired drivers, and we are thankful that this situation didnt result in tragedy. Ross is due to appear in court on January 9, according to court documents. 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 Around 200 students at the Hudson Bay High School in Washington have staged a walkout over the handling of an alleged sexual misconduct case involving one of their teachers. Shadbreon Gatson was arrested on December 20, 2024, and charged with sexual misconduct with a minor after a former student came forward to allege that she was victimized by Gatson in 2013 she had been a 13-year-old student at the time while Gatson, had been a 31-year-old English teacher, according to Clark County Jail records seen by KGW8. The teacher at Hudson Bay High School and the victims inappropriate sexual relations reportedly proliferated on and off-site an experience that has left her traumatized years later and forced her to finally bring the allegations to light on December 2, 2024. However, prosecutors dropped his charge in late December because the statute of limitations expired and as of Tuesday, Gatson remains on administrative leave. That decision appears to have upset students, who marched down to the Vancouver Public Schools district headquarters Monday in an act of protest, reported Oregon Public Broadcasting. open image in gallery Students marched down to the Vancouver Public Schools district headquarters Monday in an act of protest upset over the case involving a teacher and alleged sexual misconduct ( KGW News ) Two additional employees, who worked as administrators at the time have also been placed on leave, the outlet noted. Gatson who has also been alleged to have been involved in misconduct in 2013, 2014, 2017, and now possibly 2024 allegedly started having a sexual relationship with the underage girl when he assigned her to sit in detention in his classroom. A custodian claimed to have caught Gaston having sexual intercourse with a student in the band room of the school in June 2013, accoridng to reports. After hearing noises from two different people, the witness flicked the lights on in the storage room and saw Gaston immediately come out without shoes and an untucked shirt. The English teachers keys and wallet were reportedly visible on the floor along with his shoes, read the schools review documents and reported by KPIC4 . Despite conducting multiple interviews, his behavior was written off and it was concluded that nothing inappropriate had happened between Gatson and the girl, reports noted The documents state that the custodian reported the incident to school officials, former assistant principal and now current Valerie Seeley, and former principal William Oman who have opted to go on administrative leave for the duration of the investigation, reported KPTV. Oman signed off a letter of admonishment to Gaston for the 2013 incident citing the exercising [of] poor judgment and boundaries with a female student, read the documents. open image in gallery Two additional employees, who worked as administrators at the time have also been placed on leave, the outlet noted ( KGW News ) In October 2017, Gatson was alleged to have failed to maintain an employee-student boundary with two students after he had two female students in his classroom during instructional time who were not on his classroom roster. In that letter, a section read: Your behavior is particularly troubling, given you were previously directed to maintain appropriate employee-student boundaries by Valerie Seeley in November 2014 highlighting another alleged incident a year after the alleged interaction with the young female in June 2013. Prosecutors say that more informants have since come forward with another allegation involving a student in 2024. It was also revealed that Gatson received a letter of direction as far back as 2009 on how to interact with female students, reported KGW8 . Gatson did not appear on Clark County records as of Tuesday. The Independent contacted the Vancouver Police Department, Clark County officials, and the Hudson Bay High School for comment. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A body found in the Nevada desert is believed to be a teenager who went missing last week after a family dispute. Police in the city of Henderson said in a statement that the body matches the description of 17-year-old Jennaleah Jenna Hin. Hin was reported missing on December 30, 2024, after she left the home in Henderson following a family issue. "It's just a normal family dispute, you know, that teenagers have with their parents. Nothing out of the ordinary," Mark Speer, Red Rock Search & Rescue commander said. She said something to the effect of, You dont have to worry about me anymore, according to Speer, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. open image in gallery Hin did not have a phone or money on her the night she disappeared, her family said ( Henderson Police ) Hin did not have a phone or money on her the night she disappeared, her family members said, according to CBS affiliate KLAS. On Sunday, Henderson police responded to an area of the desert just east of Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street around 10:42 a.m. after a K-9 unit was alerted to her scent, officials said. They discovered a deceased female who they say matches the description of Hin. According to their preliminary investigations, there does not appear to be signs of foul play, police said. The Clark County Coroners Office will release official identification of the body, pending notification of next of kin. A cause of death has not been revealed. The discovery of the body comes just two days after her mother pleaded for the publics help in finding the teen at a press conference on Friday. Jenna, wherever you are or whoever youre with, I just want you to come home, Hins mother, Jennifer Swanson, said, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. I want you safe. We love you so much please come home. On Sunday afternoon, her mother shared a photo of Hin on her Facebook page, writing Jenna, I love you... Where are you, who are you with, who has you, please come home... 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 man allegedly in control of a Utah-based spinoff of the far-right anti-government Oath Keepers group is reportedly a former Las Vegas police detective who once spoke approvingly of a coming race war and revolution inside the U.S. Robert Bobby Kinch has been listed as state leader of Oath Keepers Utah, and is president of a company called Northbridge Patriots LLC, which has held the trademarks for Oath Keepers USA since May 2023, The Guardian reports. The information about Kinch emerged after an unnamed individual spent years infiltrating far-right groups throughout the Western U.S., including visiting Kinchs home in the Utah mountains. The Distributed Denial of Secrets whistleblower coalition provided chat logs and other files to the outlet. The infiltrator reportedly photographed plaques commemorating Kinchs police service, a membership certificate for the Utah Oath Keepers listing Kinch as state leader, and an Ernest Hemingway quote on a plaque reading, Certainly there is no hunting like the hunting of man and those who have hunted armed men long enough and liked it, never really care for anything else thereafter. The individual also claimed Kinch had a stockpile of weapons and shelf-stable food. The Independent has contacted Kinch for comment. Reported leader of spinoff group from far-right militia that helped attack Capitol on January 6 once served in Vegas police and posted on Facebook about coming race war ( Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Kinch was a longtime officer in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. During his time on the force, colleagues discovered inflammatory Facebook messages, including a post that reportedly read: Lets just get this over! Race war, Civil, Revolution? Bring it! Im about as fed up as a man (American, Christian, White, Heterosexual) can get! An internal investigation later revealed a photo of Kinch pointing a handgun at a commemorative plate featuring the face of Barack Obama, allegedly taken at a party with other police present. A department official alerted the Secret Service to the photo, nearly prompting a federal raid. Kinch remained on the force after the flare-ups. He later launched a discrimination case against the department, claiming he was retaliated against after testifying in a 2015 discrimination suit from a colleague. Kinch later retired from the force in 2016. The national Oath Keepers group claims tens of thousands of members, comprised of current and former military and police officials. The group claims to defend constitutional liberties from federal overreach and has regularly participated in armed standoffs and vigilante-style security patrols during protests. Multiple members of the group joined in the January 6 Capitol riot and were charged with seditious conspiracy. Donald Trump has suggested in recent weeks he will pardon nearly all of those charged with January 6-related offenses, beginning his first day in office. 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 Florida palliative care doctor was indicted after prosecutors say he instructed minors online to produce sexually explicit images of themselves and directed one to hang herself, federal prosecutors said. One girl he was communicating with was found dead, they alleged. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, was arrested and indicted on three counts of production of child sexual abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida announced Monday. Leedy, who practices in the Tampa Bay area, sexually exploited and victimized approximately 10 children through online conversations and video chats with the username maximumuncle#9112, prosecutors said. Leedy allegedly directed minors to produce sexually explicit pictures and instructed them to cut, choke, and hang themselves, prosecutors said. In November 2021, one girl was discovered deceased, having hanged herself in front of her phone in a manner consistent with instructions Leedy had previously provided her, prosecutors said. If convicted on all counts, Leedy faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His lawyers told Fox 13 that their client plans to plead not guilty. Our client, Stephen Leedy, adamantly denies the charges that have been filed against him in federal court, attorneys Bjorn Brunvand and Lucas Fleming told the outlet. It is particularly important in moments like this when someone is being accused of very troubling allegations, that we afford him the presumption of innocence, they added. We will be entering a not guilty plea at the earliest opportunity and look forward to vigorously defending Dr. Leedy in court. According to Florida Department of Health records, Leedys medical license is still active. The records also reveal that no disciplinary action has been taken against him nor have there been any public complaints. He has staff privileges at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, records show. A statement by Lakeland Regional Health provided to The Independent emphasized that no records show he was employed by the medical group nor that he treated any affiliated patients. We are deeply troubled to learn of the recent arrest of Dr. Stephen Leedy, the statement read. Dr. Leedy is not, and never has been, employed by Lakeland Regional Health and there is no record of Dr. Leedy ever treating patients at our hospital. It added: Through his affiliation with an outside hospice organization, he had limited consulting staff privileges for adult-only hospice and palliative care, and was not on the active medical staff. These privileges at our hospital were relinquished immediately upon notification of his arrest. Leedy worked as the Chief Medical Officer at Tidwell Hospice, which is affiliated with Empath Health. The Independent has reached out to Tidwell for comment. Empath Health told Fox 13 in a statement that Leedy worked at Tidwell for a period of five years more than 10 years ago. The allegations against Dr. Stephen Leedy are deeply concerning, the Empath statement read. While there has been minimal professional interaction with him since then, he has not been employed by Empath Health for more than a decade. We have faith in the legal process to address this matter and remain focused on supporting our communities with extraordinary and compassionate care. 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 Four members of San Diego State University (SDSU)s Phi Kappa Psi fraternity have pleaded not guilty to criminal charges relating to a stunt that allegedly involved deliberately setting one of its new members, known as a pledge, on fire, causing him to suffer third-degree burns. The defendants Caden Cooper, 22; Lucas Cowling, 20; Christopher Serrano, 20; and Lars Larsen, 19 were arraigned on Monday on charges that included recklessly causing a fire with great bodily injury, conspiracy to commit an act injurious to the public and violating the social host ordinance. If convicted on all of those charges, the quartet could face sentences ranging from probation to seven years and two months in state prison. The incident at the heart of the case took place at a fraternity house party on February 17 last year, according to prosecutors, which was presided over by Cooper, Phi Kappa Psis president, and Cowling, a member of its pledge board. It was there that Serrano was allegedly challenged to set Larsen on fire, a stunt that ultimately caused the latter to suffer 16 percent burns across his body, according to the San Diego County District Attorneys Office. The prosecution accuses Cooper and Cowling of lying to investigating police officers in the aftermath of the episode, deleting evidence from social media and ordering their fellow fraternity members to follow suit. In the wake of Mondays arraignment, the four defendants have been allowed to remain free from custody on their own recognizance. They have been instructed to abide by the conditions of their release and take no further part in fraternity parties or recruitment events until further notice. According to Fox 5 San Diego, Phi Kappa Psi was one of seven of SDSUs 14 fraternities that was placed on an interim suspension over alleged student misconduct in October 2023, pending an internal investigation. Interim suspensions are put into place as part of an effort to address behavioral concerns within a recognized student organization while the concerns are investigated, the institutions Office of the Dean of Students said at the time. SDSU prioritizes the health and safety of our campus community and takes reports of alleged misconduct seriously. Fox 5 reported speaking to a number of students who described a series of parties at SDSU that had gotten out of control in the run-up to the universitys ordering the suspension and moving to consider disciplinary measures. Society here and the culture here is unlike anything Ive ever experienced, one sorority member told the network. Its very normal for people to black out, very normal for people to be sent to the hospital and I do think its kind of catching up on itself. 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 accused of setting a woman ablaze on the New York City subway has pleaded not guilty after claiming he was too drunk to remember committing the crime. Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, 33, was arraigned on murder and arson charges in Brooklyn Criminal Court in connection with the killing of Debrina Kawam, 57. Court documents reveal police played Zepeta-Calil the video of Kawams murder, to which he responded, Oh damn, thats me, CNN reports. He went on to tell police he doesnt remember the incident, noting he drank alcohol earlier in the day, according to CNN. I am very sorry, he said. I didnt mean to. But I really dont know. I dont know what happened, but Im very sorry for that woman. Prosecutors say Zapeta-Calil set Kawam on fire on a stopped F train at Brooklyns Coney Island station last month before fanning the flames with a shirt and sitting on a platform bench to watch the scene. open image in gallery Sebastian Zapeta-Calil said oh damn, thats me when police showed him a video of Debrina Kawams murder, according to court documents. ( AP ) Prosecutors also argue Zapeta-Calil confirmed to officers he was the man in surveillance photos and videos of the fire but said he drinks a lot of alcohol and did not recall what happened. Zapeta-Calil, a Guatemalan citizen who authorities say entered the country illegally after being deported in 2018, faces multiple counts of murder as well as an arson charge. The top charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole. He was previously arraigned on a criminal complaint, but in New York, all felony cases require a grand jury indictment to proceed to trial unless a defendant waives that requirement. open image in gallery During questioning, Zapeta-Calil claimed he had no memory of the incident that shook New Yorkers. ( AP ) Prosecutors with Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalezs office announced Zapeta had been indicted in late December. Zapeta-Calils lawyer didnt respond to an email seeking comment, the Associated Press reported. The killing has renewed discussion about safety in the nations largest mass transit system even as crime in the subway remains relatively rare. Transit crime is down for the second straight year, with a 5.4% drop last year compared to 2023, according to data released by police Monday, which also showed a 3% overall drop in major crimes citywide. Still, New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said in a Monday news conference discussing the statistics that riders simply "dont feel safe." In response, she said the department will surge more than 200 officers onto subway trains and deploy more officers onto subway platforms in the 50 highest-crime stations in the city. "We know that 78% of transit crime occurs on trains and on platforms, and that is quite obviously where our officers need to be," Tisch said. "This is just the beginning." Additional reporting by AP. 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 reporter who ended online speculation that Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk was posing as an ardent fan has reportedly been temporarily banned from the social media site, and links to her story have been restricted. In one of the the latest dramas surrounding Musk, suspicions arose that a poster on X named Adrian Dittman, who sounds like Musk and regularly defends him, might have been the South African-born billionaire himself, using a so-called sock-puppet account. However, Jacqueline Sweet, a reporter at the Spectator, determined that Dittman is actually a real person living in Fiji. Elon Musk reportedly banned a reporter from X who proved he wasnt using an alt account to boost his own messages ( PA Wire ) Sweet published her findings, but Musk seemed to contradict them by posting on X that "I am Adrian Dittman." "It's time the world knew. Left by itself, it looks like Musk was just having some fun and playing along with the drama. But despite his projected indifference, it appears the X boss was unhappy with Sweet's reporting. At some point after he became aware of the story, Musk's X reportedly banned Sweet's account for a month allegedly for "doxing," according to Sweet and she claims that links to the Spectator article about Dittman have been restricted across the site. Sweet provided a statement to The Independent saying: I am disappointed that X is censoring the story and has frozen my account, because our reporting was newsworthy, balanced, researched and careful to not expose anyones personal information such as social media handles or addresses. Anonoymous accounts are often written about if they are newsworthy and the story is in the public interest, and with Musk and the Adrian Dittmann account heavily involved in American politics, this reporting was fair and not doxing as Xs terms define it. As a journalist, using X is important to my work so I am hopeful Musk will return to his free speech ideals and stop censoring me, and the story. Her post about Dittman and Musk had amassed 1.5 million views when it was taken down. When he bought Twitter, he insisted he was buying the site due to issues with free speech and transparency. Despite calling himself a "free speech absolutist," Musk has been accused of banning or restricting accounts he personally takes issue with in the past. It appears Musk's response to the article may be borne of those same tendencies. When an X user attempts to click on Sweet's article, a message pops up warning readers "this link may be unsafe." The warning continues: "The link you are trying to access has been identified by X or our partners as being potentially spammy or unsafe, in accordance with X's URL Policy." The message lists the categories that a link might fall into to generate such a warning, including "spammy links that mislead people or disrupt their experience." A big blue button under the message will navigate users away from the Spectator article, while the only option for continuing is by clicking a tiny blue hyperlink attached to the word "continue." Critics have accused Musk ofcensoring Sweets reporting. Andrew Kerr, an investigative reporter for the Free Beacon, tweeted: "Don't say anything bad about Elon it's against the rules." The Independent has contacted X for comment, The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Elon Musk has suggested in a post on X that Americans should liberate" the British from their "tyrannical government" as he attempts to insert himself deeper into British politics and continues to feud with the countrys ruling Labour Party over its handling of child abuse cases. In perhaps his strangest intervention in foreign politics yet, the Tesla and Space X multi-billionaire asked for a show of hands in a poll on his social network Monday on his statement: "America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. It had 39 million views by Monday evening. Whether he was referring to harsh criticism, covert support for domestic guerrillas, or military action in the liberation was unclear, but he also added that it was "not a bad idea" for Britain to become a U.S. state, as Donald Trump has suggested for Canada. Musks own father, also-billionaire Errol Musk, urged the public to ignore his son. People dont have to listen to what he says. Id say dont worry about it. Tell him to get lost. Musks dad told LBC News. Elon Musk's latest X post is part of an escalating battle between the richest person on Earth and the British Labour Party, which was elected in a landslide last July, but has since suffered a sharp drop in popularity. As part of that battle, Musk a dues-paying major ally of the openly authoritarian Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced support for far-right activists and causes in the UK, just as he did in Germany last month. At the center of the dispute is Labour's record, and that of British prime minister Keir Starmer, over a series of high-profile child abuse scandals in which authorities reportedly failed to investigate gangs of largely British Pakistani men who trafficked and raped thousands of young girls. Over the past six days, Musk has accused Starmer of being "complicit in mass rape in exchange for votes," called British safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a "rape genocide apologist" who "should be in jail," and reportedly called for London's police chief Sir Mark Rowley to be "extradited" to the U.S. In a speech on Monday morning, Starmer shot back: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves ... 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." He added: 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. Research has suggested that most perpetrators of group-based child abuse are white, although evidence on the ethnicity of British sex offenders is reportedly unreliable. Nevertheless, there have been several cases in which gangs of mostly British Pakistani men in northern England groomed and raped young girls many of whom were white. In many of those cases, later investigations found that police and local authorities had failed to act in part because they were afraid of inflaming racial tensions. As the chief prosecutor for England and Wales between 2008 and 2013, Starmer oversaw a decision not to bring charges in one such case, and has been accused of authorities' failures to take action. But there is no evidence Starmer was personally involved in that specific case, and he later pushed for a tougher stance against child abuse gangs. Musk's attacks began when Phillips rejected calls for a new national inquiry into child abuse in the city of Oldham, saying that it was up to local authorities to conduct such a probe. Her predecessors in the Conservative Party made the same decision back in 2022, and failed to implement the recommendations of a previous national inquiry into such scandals. Grooming gangs have also been a major talking point for British far right and anti-Muslim activists, whom Musk has repeatedly praised or voiced agreement with. Emphasizing a segment of crimes involving immigrants plays into Musks anti-immigrant perspective, even though he himself is an immigrant from South Africa. 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 James Arthur Ray, a self-help guru whose multimillion-dollar business toppled after he led a sweat lodge ceremony that left three people dead, has died. He was 67. In a post on X, his family announced that Ray died suddenly and unexpectedly late last week but didn't specify the cause. Up until then, he co-hosted a podcast with his wife and shared advice via social media. His passion in life was always to make others lives better and more fulfilled, Rays brother, Jon Ray, wrote. Im happy to say that he accomplished that thousands of times over. The sweat lodge deaths happened when dozens of people traveled to a scenic retreat just outside Sedona in October 2009 for Rays five-day Spiritual Warrior event. The sweat lodge was the culminating event, touted as hellacious hot and a chance for participants to have powerful breakthroughs. Stephanie Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County in Nevada where was Ray residing, said it had received a death report of a man matching Ray's name and age. Ray's earlier business in which he taught people about spiritual and financial help was boosted by appearances in the 2006 Rhonda Byrne documentary The Secret, which he promoted on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Larry King Live. Two people 38-year-old Kirby Brown of Westtown, New York, and 40-year-old James Shore of Milwaukee died inside the sweat lodge and 18 others were injured. Another person, Liz Neuman, 49, of Prior Lake, Minnesota, fell into a coma and died after more than a week in the hospital. open image in gallery James Arthur Ray listens to prosecuting attorneys speak during his criminal trial, ( AP2011 ) At trial, prosecutors said Ray ratcheted up the heat to dangerous levels, ignored pleas for help, and watched as overcome participants were dragged out of the sweat lodge. A jury acquitted Ray of more serious manslaughter charges and convicted him of three counts of negligent homicide, for which he served concurrent sentences for the deaths. He was released in July 2013. Ray had acknowledged that he was responsible for the deaths but offered no excuses for his lack of action as the chaos unfolded at the sweat lodge. After leaving prison, Ray remained active in the self-help industry. He frequently posted videos on social media of himself and his wife, Bersabeh Ray, offering advice. The couple also hosted a podcast, Modern Alchemy, and maintained a website where Ray offered one-on-one video sessions up to 90 minutes for $2,500. In the wake of Brown's death, her family established Seek Safely, an organization offering support for those who may be vulnerable to exploitation by the self-help industry. In a statement on the organization's website, Brown's sister, Jean, offered condolences and said Ray was just one of many operators in a multi-billion dollar per year industry built on the exploitation of those who would improve their lives and find fulfillment. We can only, at this juncture, remind seekers that no guru, or program, or mindset is larger than life or without fault. That a journey of self-improvement is noble and vulnerable. That we must always remain in charge of that process of growth and change, rooted in our values, our worth, and our right to seek free from harm, she wrote. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US 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 Two people have been found dead in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue plane that had just landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida after departing from New York Citys JFK Airport, authorities have said. An investigation is underway after the shocking discovery was made at Terminal 3 of the airport on Monday evening, with Broward County sheriffs deputies and a medical examiner reportedly in attendance. A spokesperson for JetBlue told The Independent the victims bodies were discovered during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection and that both were already dead when they were found. It has emerged that the deceased are both male but their identities have not yet been released by investigators, who are working to determine how they came to be in the planes landing gear compartment. This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, the spokesperson said. According to the carrier, the aircraft had most recently been deployed as Flight 1801 out of New York. While it is not yet known whether the deceased were attempting to stow away on the flight, it is not uncommon for people to use planes wheel wells, nose wells and other unpressurized areas to attempt to sneak aboard aircraft, a highly dangerous practice that commonly yields tragic results. Anyone who attempts to conceal themselves within unpressurized wheel houses or cargo holds find themselves having to contend with freezing conditions, with temperatures potentially reaching between -58F and -76F, Reuters reports. They could also struggle for oxygen and risk being crushed by a planes wheels. Despite the high fatality rate, some people have managed to survive their incredible ordeal, with cases reported in Paris, Amsterdam and Miami airports in recent years. 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 A monkey in a pink tutu that slipped out of a home in Missouri, America was captured just before a winter storm threatened the region. Bananas is how the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office described the apprehension of the primate in a Facebook post. The spider monkey was spotted on Friday afternoon at the intersection of two highways near the town of Otto, just to the south of the St. Louis area. The monkey had been staying at a nearby home when it managed to open a door and get outside. The sheriff's office said the small monkey was returned to its caretaker after careful negotiations and some coaxing." Photos posted on the sheriff's department Facebook page show a deputy kneeling on the ground before the tutu-clad monkey approached and grabbed his hands. open image in gallery An officer and the escaped spider monkey ( Jefferson County Sheriff's Office ) The sheriff's office said its a great example of how officers having to be prepared to handle whatever the job throws at them. The full post read: Situation ContainedShortly before 4 PM on 1/3/25, Deputies responded to the area of Highways 21 & M for reports of a subject monkeying around. When they arrived, first-responding units found the subject was naked except for what appeared to be a tutu. After careful negotiations and some coaxing, Deputies were able to get close enough to go hands on with the subject and bring this bananas situation under control without incident. In all seriousness, this is a great example of law enforcement officers never knowing what theyll face on any given call, and having to be prepared to handle whatever the job throws at them. This spider monkey was staying at a nearby home when it managed to open a door and get outside. Deputies surrounded the animal and eventually got it back to its caretaker. Nice work by everyone involved. What a day in #JeffCo! open image in gallery Escaped Monkey The timing was fortuitous. A winter storm packing snow and ice hit the region on Saturday, closing roads and sending temperatures plunging. The National Weather Service 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. Do not travel unless necessary! the NWS said. 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 For a ninth consecutive day, thousands of firefighters are still battling the wildfires that are ravaging Los Angeles County. The Palisades and Eaton fires, along with other smaller blazes, have spread more than 40,000 acres (larger than the land area of Washington, DC), with the flames being fanned by a fierce windstorm known as the Santa Ana winds. As of Wednesday morning, at least 25 lives had been lost, more than 12,000 homes and structures destroyed and hundreds of thousands of residents still placed under evacuation orders. The economic losses from the fires may reach $275 billion, according to estimates. With slowing wind speeds earlier this week offering some respite, later on Tuesday, the National Weather Service warned that Angelenos are not out of the woods yet. Firefighters are bracing for the return of bruising winds as the agency again declared a particularly dangerous situation the most extreme advance warning with local gusts expected to reach 65mph before sunrise up until noon on Wednesday. Below is a timeline of key events from before the first blaze broke out. Early warning signs open image in gallery A residence burns as a firefighter battles the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. ( AP ) With the luxury of hindsight, the warning signs seem clear: a fire broke out northeast of the Pacific Palisades on January 1; the National Weather Service warned of potential rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior in parts of Los Angeles if ignition occurred. Despite the warnings, senior Los Angeles Fire Department officials allegedly decided not to assign 1,000 extra firefighters and dozens of fire engines for emergency deployment the day the wildfires broke out, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times. By the time the first blaze erupted at 10:30 a.m. on January 7, it took the LAPD 45 minutes to respond to reports of smoke pluming from a wooded area near the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, according to the Washington Post. And while LA was burning, the citys mayor, Karen Bass, flew to Ghana on diplomatic duties. She was captured posing for pictures at a cocktail party in celebration of the inauguration of Ghanas President John Dramani Mahama when the first fire broke out last week. January 7 open image in gallery A firefighter battles the advancing Palisades Fire around a structure in the Pacific Palisades on January 7 ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) The first and ultimately the most devastating fire was burning in the Pacific Palisades, an affluent coastal neighborhood west of LA. Since the morning of January 7, it has engulfed more than 23,000 acres and, as of Wednesday morning, is 18 percent contained. By 7.30pm that evening, the fire spread to almost 3,000 acres before reaching the center of Pacific Palisades. At around 6:30 p.m., the Eaton Fire erupted in the Altadena area, north of Pasadena, and has now churned through more than 14,000 acres and has been 35 percent contained. At 10.29, the Hurst fire ignited near San Fernando. It has since burned nearly 800 acres and is 97 percent contained. January 8 open image in gallery A firefighter works to extinguish flames as the Eaton Fire burns in Pasadena, California, on January 8 ( REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni ) The death toll had climbed to five people, as the fast-moving wildfires continued to sweep across the LA area. The Palisades fire had burned more than 17,200 acres, while the Eaton fire has scorched some 10,600 acres. The Sunset fire was sparked in the Hollywood Hills and had engulfed 43 acres. All three fires were at zero percent containment. More than 2,000 buildings had been scorched and tens of thousands of residents forced to evacuate, including more than 60,000 in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood. More than 330,000 people were without power throughout the region, according to PowerOutage.us. Fire chiefs also confirmed they were faced with a new challenge: depleted water supplies and low water pressure. January 9 open image in gallery Water is dropped by helicopter on the Kenneth Fire in the West Hills section of Los Angeles on January 9 ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Another conflagration, the Kenneth fire, ignited in the afternoon and burned more than 1,000 acres near the Los Angeles-Ventura County line. It was at 100 percent containment as of Sunday morning. California Governor Gavin Newsom revealed that more than 7,500 firefighting personnel and almost 1,200 fire trucks have been deployed across Southern California. President Joe Biden, announced the approval of a major disaster declaration and ordered federal assistance to bolster response efforts. The Department of Medical Examiner announced it had received notification of 10 fire-related fatalities. The Los Angeles Unified School District, the second-largest in the nation with 500,000 students, closed all of its campuses. January 10 The Palisades Fire was at six percent containment and had scorched 19,978 acres, while the Altadena and Pasadena-based Eaton fire had burned 13,690 acres and three prercent contained. Fire crews were still battling the Kenneth Fire that broke out north of the Palisades fire hours, threatening homes near Calabasas and Hidden Hills. The blaze was believed to have been started intentionally, the LAPD announced. Winds picked up, topping out at 70mph in southern Californias mountainous regions after sunrise, according to the NWS. January 11 open image in gallery California Wildfires Photo Gallery ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) More than 100,000 residents remained under evacuation orders, as the Eaton fire in Altadena and other blazes in the county continued to burn. Officials confirmed that at least 16 people had died in the wildfires. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced it would take the lead on a new investigative task force probing the origin of the Palisades fire. Search and rescue efforts for missing persons related to the fires, which including personnel sifting through the rubble and debris of scorched buldings, began in the morning. January 12 The death toll climbed to 24 by Sunday and more than 12,000 structures destroyed, according to officials. The NWS warned of a particularly dangerous situation by the evening and, although peak winds would be weaker than the rest of the week, they were strong enough to potentially cause explosive fire growth. Gusts reached of up to 70mph in mountainous regions of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, the agency said. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy has vowed to dispatch 150 firefighting personnel from Ukraine to bolster response efforts to the wildfires raging through southern California. Billionaire Elon Musk also vowed to deploy a fleet of Tesla Cybetrucks equipped with Starlink terminals. January 13 open image in gallery A firefighter monitors the spread of the Auto Fire in Oxnard, northwest of Los Angeles, California, on January 13 ( AFP via Getty Images ) A new blaze, named the Auto Fire, broke out late Monday in Ventura County, and scorched about 56 acres, prompting a swift response from fire crews. As of Monday morning, the fires had scorched more than 40,000 acres. Only 13 percent of the more than 23,000-acre Palisades fire has been contained. The Eaton fire has burned more than 14,000 acres in Altadena and Pasadena and is 27 percent contained. After a week of bruising gusts, wind speeds dropped. President Joe Biden approved a revised major disaster declaration this week, declaring that the federal government will fund 100 percent of debris removal and emergency protective measures. January 14 and 15 Firefighters contined to brace for the return of bruising Santa Ana winds late on Tuesday into Wednesday morning as the death toll from the raging Los Angeles fires climbed to 25. On Wednesday morning, the National Weather Service again declared a particularly dangerous situation the most extreme advance warning with local gusts expected to reach 65 mph before sunrise up until noon on Wednesday. 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 McDonalds announced on Monday its pulling pack on certain aspects of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work, the latest high-profile corporation to move away from such programs amid changing legal precedent and a cultural backlash against woke agendas thats only set to grow in the coming Trump administration. Executives wrote in an open letter to employees that it was still committed to inclusion, but that the fast-food giant would retire specific diversity goals for senior leadership and end a program encouraging suppliers to increase minority leadership. Among other factors, the Golden Arches cited the shifting legal landscape after the 2023 Supreme Court ruling striking down the use of race-conscious affirmative action in university admissions. Other companies have taken a similar course. In November, facing a potential Black Friday boycott led by conservative activist Robby Starbuck, Walmart said it would cut back on racial equity training and funding for anti-racist nonprofits. It also promised to review funding for Pride events and end its participation in the Human Rights Council LGBT+ Corporate Equality Index survey. Earlier that year, John Deere announced it would stop sponsoring social or cultural awareness events and audit training materials, while insisting the existence of diversity quotas and pronoun identification have never been and are not company policy. open image in gallery McDonald's, Walmart, John Deere, and Harley-Davidson are among major firms that have rolled back DEI work in recent months ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Meanwhile, in August, motorcyle manufacturer Harley-Davidson, dropped diversity spending goals and outside reviews of its corporate inclusion levels. A similar trend has played out in corporate boardrooms, according to observers, who argue that a brief post-2020 increase in diverse hiring after the George Floyd protests is over. Among the 3,000 largest public U.S. firms, the number of Black directors fell to 12 percent from 26 percent two years earlier, Reuters reports. open image in gallery Donald Trump has vowed to go after DEI programs in education and the military ( AP ) In addition to adjusting to the post-affirmative action world, corporations may fear a public or political backlash from the ascendant right. Bud Light endured torrents of outrage in 2023 after partnering with influencer Dylan Mulvaney, who is transgender. The anti-woke moment looks set to continue under the incoming Trump administration. Trump suggested during the 2024 campaign hell fine schools that engage in DEI work and used seized funds as restitution for victims of diversity policies. He also claimed that once in office, he will set up an anti-woke task force to monitor the U.S. military. 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 Members of the MAGAworld have defended a Nebraska senators husband for brazenly snubbing Kamala Harris when he refused to shake the vice presidents hand. Republican Deb Fischers husband, Bruce Fischer, was by her side while she was sworn into her third term in the US Senate by Harris on January 3. But when the vice president congratulated them both and extended her hand, Fischers husband, who was holding a bible in his left hand and a cane with his right, briefly glanced up at Harris and muttered, thank you. The senator took the bible from him, freeing up his left hand but instead, he put it in his pocket and continued to look down. Harris raised her eyebrows and shook off the snub with an uncomfortable smile as the group posed for an awkward photo. Video of the snub has gone viral with people noting the snub and Harriss reaction to being left hanging. Now, some on the far-right have come to Bruce Fischers defense and offered a raft of excuses. Which hand do you want him to shake with? One person said in a post on X. The in [sic] one holding the book or the one holding his cane? open image in gallery Members of the right are defending the Nebraska senator after his snub of Kamala Harriss handshake went viral. Here and awkward picture shared by Republican Senator Deb Fischer after the moment ( Senator Deb Fischer ) Isnt he holding a cane in the [sic] she tried to shake? another reasoned. Some claimed Harris was in the wrong for extending her hand in the first place. Bruce Fischer, husband of Republican Senator Deb Fischer, walks with a cane, the person said on X. It was insensitive of VP Harris to offer him her right hand when it was clear that he has a disability. open image in gallery Harris congratulates the couple and extends her hand to Bruce Fischer, the husband of Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer at her swearing in ( CSPAN ) open image in gallery Bruce Fischer briefly muttered thank you and looked down as Harris retracted her hand ( CSPAN ) Another said Harris was stupid for attempting to shake his hand. Bruce Fischer, 73, is holding a Bible in one hand & a cane in his other, they commented. Harris stupidly requests he shake her hand anyway. Just to set the record straight, Bruce Fischer, husband of Sen Deb Fischer, was holding the Bible in his left hand & using a cane to support himself that he had in his right hand, another said. Thats why he couldnt shake Kamalas hand. Others praised the senators husband for swerving Harriss handshake. Bravo and standing ovation to your husband!!! one said. open image in gallery Harris raised her eyebrows and smiled following the awkward moment ( CSPAN ) Please give your husband a huge hug from the American people!! We appreciate his actions, another added. The group Republicans Against Trump shared the clip of the video and branded Fischers husband classless. GOP Senator Deb Fischers husband, Bruce, refuses to shake Vice President Kamala Harriss hand after her swearing-in. Truly classless, they said in a post on X. Others agreed with the sentiment, with one person adding that he had zero class. No surprise that VP Kamala Harris handled his snub with dignity. Thats who she is, the person wrote on X. Fischer shared photos from the swearing in ceremony on her official X account while sharing a message of standing together. Together we will continue to stand tall for our shared values and take care of our people, she wrote. We will protect this nation. We will build a stronger Nebraska. And we will secure that brighter future for our children and grandchildren. 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 Four years after she found herself just 20 feet away from a viable pipe bomb amid the Capitol riot as her victory as vice president was to be certified, Kamala Harris stood on the dais in the House of Representatives next to one of the men who battled to overturn that election for Donald Trump. Harris was a California senator on January 6, 2021 preparing to step up as second-in-command to Joe Biden while Mike Johnson, a backbencher Republican congressman from Louisiana, fought to keep Trump in the White House. But Monday the two of them stood side-by-side in front of a joint session of Congress, Johnson having risen to speaker of the House and Harris defeated by Trump in the race to the White House. I did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath I have taken many times to defend the Constitution of the United States, which included today performing my constitutional duties to ensure that the people of America will have their votes counted, that those votes matter, she said. I do believe very strongly that Americas democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it. open image in gallery Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland led the impeachment of Trump after January 6. He did so in the shadow of his son Tommys suicide. ( Getty Images ) Harris, who will leave her job in two weeks, has spent the last days welcoming Republicans as they come into power as part of her official duties as president of the Senate. JD Vance, the Republican senator from Ohio who will take her job, has watched her from the audience. Trump chose Vance as his running mate instead of his one-time vice president Mike Pence, who refused to overturn the election results four years ago. Last Friday, Harris swore in Republican Senators Josh Hawley of Missouri and Ted Cruz of Texas, who both led the efforts to object to election results when Biden won. Harris isnt the only Democrat making the best of the day. Democrats of all stripes have attempted to be gracious even in their defeat to show that they differ wildly from their Republican colleagues who tried to overturn the election because they were unhappy with the results. As Harris swore in senators on Friday, Johnson scrambled to round up votes to keep his speakers gavel. Afterward, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries mentioned how Trump won the election. That elicited applause from House Republicans, which led to Jeffries responding in kind. Its ok, there are no election deniers on our side, Jeffries assured them. And indeed, Jeffries and the rest of the Democratic caucus did not object. But that did not mean their emotions were any less raw. Four years ago, Jeffries, along with Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell of California, Colin Allred of Texas and Ruben Gallego of Arizona led a blockade to protect their colleagues as rioters began to storm the Capitol. Now, Gallego is a senator, having pulled in people who also voted for Trump in November. He has said he feared on January 6, 2021, that he might have to stab a rioter to survive. I wish four years ago, President Trump and his supporters would have shown the class that Vice President Harris and her supporters did in certifying the election and having a safe passage of democracy, Gallego told The Independent. It didn't happen then. But I think we're setting an example, and hopefully, going in the future it will set further examples for other parties when they win or lose elections. When Gallego was sworn in, his son Michael told Harris he was sorry she did not win the presidency, which led Harris to comfort the younger Gallego, saying: No, were not defeated. open image in gallery Vice President Kamala Harris reaches out to comfort Michael Gallego, son of Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego after he expressed his regret that Harris lost the presidential election during a ceremonial swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol last Friday. ( Alex Wong/Getty Images ) Gallego is joined by a handful of his other colleagues from the House who earned a promotion to the Senate. Four years ago, Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat from Michigan, was trying to get to the House floor when she heard a bang, which she thought was a crowd-control device, but turned out to be the gunshot that killed Ashli Babbitt as she sought to force her way into the Speakers lobby. I hauled ass back to my office and barricaded myself in my office, Slotkin told The Independent. So I've actually never seen an official certification of an election. After the riot then, the House and Senate reconvened to certify the election in the dead of night. But this time, the certification process went smoothly and lasted less than an hour. It's the same thing we teach second graders when they play tee ball: You respect the winner and you shake hands, Slotkin told The Independent. Like Gallego, Slotkin won her race in a state that Trump won. The January 6 riot eventually led to Trumps second impeachment. Representative Raskin served as the lead impeachment manager. That January 6 was an intensely personal day for him, given he had just lost his son Tommy to suicide. His daughter Tabitha and Hank, his son-in-law married to his other daughter, were both at the Capitol. Despite Raskins impeachment trial in the Senate, only seven Republicans voted to convict Trump. One of them, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, fist-bumped Vance when Mondays certification process ended. It's a day of mixed emotion for me. I can feel proud that we're acting as constitutional patriots, and this is exactly what the peaceful transfer of power should look like, Raskin told The Independent, though he questioned why people needed to applaud during the process. It was a peaceful and uneventful and nonviolent transfer of power, he noted. But it's undoubtedly hard for any of us to be up there without thinking about what happened four years ago when there was an attempt at a backstage political coup with coercive pressure on the vice president and insurrectionary mob violence unleashed against us on that day. He also warned: We won't know until Trump's party loses an election whether they're actually willing to accept the constitutional process as it's supposed to work. Many Republicans, including those who objected to Trumps actions, opposed his impeachment. But Kevin McCarthy, then the House minority leader, said that Trump bore responsibility for the insurrection, while Mitch McConnell, then the Republican leader of the Senate, said that the people who stormed this building believed they were acting on the wishes and instructions of their president. But its the diehard Trump loyalists who are on the ascendancy. open image in gallery Rep. Andy Kim, D-N.J., cleaned up debris and trash strewn across the floor in the early morning hours of Thursday. In November, he became New Jerseys senator. ( AP ) After the attempt by Trumps supporters to swarm the Capitol in hopes of changing the election results ended, Andy Kim, then a Democratic representative from New Jersey, cleaned up the trash that the rioters had left around the damaged Capitol. Four years later, Kim walked around the building and remembered that day. It reminds me is just the deep challenges that we're facing, he said. It wasn't just about Trump, isn't just whos in the Oval Office. It's a deeper challenge that we face as a country right now. Democrats, meanwhile, have sought to show that they are willing to take out their own trash. In 2023, Kim challenged Bob Menendez, the Democratic New Jersey senator who faced a federal indictment for a corruption investigation. Menendez resigned after he was convicted. In November, Kim won his Senate race. 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 Jr will visit Greenland Tuesday, even as his father triggers local anger by renewing his push to make the Danish territory part of the U.S. The elder Trump 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! The Danish government confirmed to CNN that Trumps eldest son would arrive on Tuesday, but declined to comment further as it was "not an official American visit. Trump has advocated for the United States to take over Greenland, even calling it an absolute necessity, despite outright opposition from Greenland's people and its government. "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 said ominously last month. Greenland's prime minister Mute Egede responded: "we are not for sale and never will be for sale." The King of Denmark also changed the country's royal coat of arms to make the symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, another Danish territory, more prominent, in an apparent rebuke to Trump. Nevertheless, on Monday Trump claimed: "I am hearing that the people of Greenland are 'Maga, referring to his diehard supporters. He attached a video in his post of a lone Greenlander in a MAGA hat urging him to "buy Greenland" because "we don't want to be colonized by the Danish government anymore. Greenland is currently an autonomous territory of Denmark, which has claimed sovereignty over the island for hundreds of years and began actively colonizing it in 1721. Vikings from Iceland and Norway first settled in Greenland in 986, but their colonies eventually collapsed, and most of the countrys modern residents are of Inuit or mixed Inuit and European descent. There is a long history of U.S. politicians seeking control over the island due to its strategic location, which offers access to the Arctic and guards one flank of the watery "gap" that links Russian naval bases to the Atlantic Ocean. At present Greenland hosts the world's most northern U.S. military base, which includes key early warning systems designed to spot missile and space-based attacks from foreign adversaries. 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 argued that the U.S. should buy Greenland since his first term in the White House. The island, with 56,000 inhabitants, is an autonomous territory of Denmark, and both the Danish government and local authorities have repeatedly said that the island is not for sale. But that hasnt deterred the president-elect. 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, he wrote on Truth Social last month as he announced his pick for ambassador, PayPal co-founder Kenneth Howery, to Denmark. Greenland is about three times the size of Texas and is situated northeast of Canada. Denmark ruled the island for more than 200 years and retains some control over its foreign policy, The Washington Post noted. We are not for sale and will never be for sale, Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede has said. Trump, meanwhile, argues that owning Greenland is a national security imperative. The U.S. does have a base on the island, Pituffik Space Base, and the island is in a strategically important location for missile defense and space surveillance missions, according to The Post. The base was constructed at the beginning of the Cold War. The island measures over 800,000 square miles and has plenty of natural resources, such as oil and rare earth minerals. In 2019, Senator Tom Cotton wrote in a New York Times op-ed that there are strategic benefits to buying Greenland, pointing to China trying to buy an old U.S. naval base on the island in 2016 and several attempts by the country to build airports there. An aircraft carrying Donald Trump Jr. arrives in Nuuk, Greenland on January 7, 2025. President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested that the U.S. buy the island ( Ritzau Scanpix/AFP/Getty ) Denmark controlled the island from the early 18th century until 1979. The island is now self-ruled when it comes to local issues, a Danish government site states. The Nordic country also maintains the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic as an autonomous territory. In 2009, Greenland approved the Self-Government Act, leading to home rule, but defense and foreign policy matters are still up to Denmark. Former Danish foreign minister Martin Lidegaard told The Post in 2019 that The Greenlandic people have their own rights. Greenlands residents are Danish citizens and have two representatives in the Danish parliament. The countrys Indigenous peoples are a majority of the population on the island. The U.S. has considered buying Greenland in the past: The administration of President Andrew Johnson authorized a report in the 1860s finding that the islands natural resources could be a good investment, but the idea went nowhere at the time. The administration of President Harry Truman offered $100 million for the island just after the end of the Second World War. Because of its natural resources and industries, buying the island could cost as much as $1.7 trillion, The Post estimated. Last month, the Danish government announced new defense spending for Greenland of about $1.5 billion. Denmarks Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the plans to increase defense spending on the island were made before Trumps fresh calls to buy Greenland. 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 been complaining about his first buddy Elon Musk behind closed doors, according to a reporter. Trump and Musk have become close in recent months, with the tech billionaire reportedly staying at a cottage just a few hundred feet away from the main house at Mar-a-Lago. Trump also tapped Musk to co-head the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. But there appears to be trouble in paradise, according to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman. Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot, New York Times journalist said on the podcast On with Kara Swisher on Monday. Musk has been a major donor to Trump this campaign cycle and hes sort of tied into various areas around Trump which makes things more complicated, she said. Musk donated more than a quarter of a billion dollars to Trumps campaign. Musk seems more willing to irritate Trump than a lot of other people have been and less concerned about what it might mean. Its a fraught relationship and has potential for becoming even more so, she said. The pair became so close that some dubbed the Tesla CEO President Musk. But the president-elect swiftly addressed that during a speech in Arizona last month: No, hes not taking the presidencyThats not happening. President-elect Donald Trump listens to Elon Musk as he arrives to watch SpaceXs mega rocket Starship lift off for a test flight from Starbase in November. Their relationship is fraught, according to a New York Times reporter ( AP ) Asked about how Trump reacted to the President Musk line, Haberman said it definitely bothers him. She continued: Trumps not a wind-up toy but there certainly are very specific things that can zotz him. But she predicted that once Trump takes office, this is going to change a little bit. I dont anticipate that Musk is going to have an office in the West Wing or have a pass to walk freely in the White House, she said. Trump keeps people around for a long time if they are of use to him and he almost never totally closes the door to somebody, whether they are rich or not, Haberman added. But, Musk comes with something that president [Steve] Bannon did not, which is a lot of money, and I think that buys him a lot of time. She added that others in his inner circle are struggling with how aggressive Musk can be in their interactions. But she believed that they wouldnt admit that publicly. Musk is influential to Trump but is not his most influential adviser, she said. Susie Wiles and Stephen Miller take that title, according to Haberman. Habermans report comes after anonymous sources told Mediaite that Trump was annoyed with Musks omnipresence shortly after he engaged in a so-called civil war with some of Trumps prominent MAGA allies over H-1B visas. 100 percent Trump is annoyed, a source who worked on Trumps re-election campaign told the outlet last month. Theres a Chinese saying: two tigers cannot live on one mountaintop. Another source said: There was likely an allure to it in the beginning but it seemed like it could go uglyTrump is Trump. I think its just the way Trump is. Someone that is around that much and having influence would be a bother. 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 has dispatched his eldest son Donald Trump Jr on a visit to Greenland as the president-elect continues to express an interest in acquiring the autonomous Arctic territory from Denmark. The incoming commander-in-chief first trailed the visit on his Truth Social platform on Monday evening by posting: 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. 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 followed that up on Tuesday morning with another post featuring a video of his private plane landing in the capital Nuuk that read: Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Don Jr himself soon posted a video of himself there on Instagram, posing beneath a statue of the Lutheran missionary Hans Egede who is credited with first settling the barren territory in 1721 before spinning his phone camera around to showcase the incredible scenery. Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk also turned out to be among Don Jrs entourage and posted a picture of themselves together on the same platform. open image in gallery Donald Trump Jr and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk in Greenland on January 7 2025 ( charliekirk1776/Instagram ) Don Jr described the fly-in visit as a personal day-trip to greet the locals and said no meetings were planned with government officials. His appearance has already inspired anger in Copenhagen, however, with Danish MP Rasmus Jarlov writing on X: This level of disrespect from the coming US president towards very, very loyal allies and friends is record-setting. Although it is still two weeks before Trump is even inaugurated as Americas next president, he is already clearly looking ahead to his next administration and the prospect of landing a major legacy achievement like expanding the geographic reach of the United States. He previously expressed an interest in buying Greenland in 2019 during his first term, even posting a meme imaging a Trump International Hotel towering above its chilly landscape, only to be rebuffed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who remains in power and appears unlikely to have changed her mind about the prospect in the interim. Trump was infuriated by that rejection and began insisting again last month that the US needs the land for national security reasons, hoping to make it the first terrain the United States has bought since it acquired the Virgin Islands, also from Denmark, at great expense in 1917. open image in gallery Trump Force One in Nuuk, Greenland, on January 7 2025 ( Ritzau Scanpix/AFP/Getty ) We are not for sale, the islands prime minister Mute Egede reiterated in December. Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. Undeterred, the president-elect has also talked about merging the US with Canada in recent days, capitalizing on the political instability caused by Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation this week to post on Truth Social on Monday: 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 US, 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!!! 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 Instances when all five living presidents come together are rare. But for Jimmy Carters funeral on Thursday, they were all there. President-elect Donald Trump was the first to arrive alongside former and future First Lady Melania Trump. Barack Obama, the Clintons, Bushes and Bidens were also in attendance. Michelle Obama was the only living first lady who was absent, with reports claiming she was in Hawaii. Outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff were the last to take their seats among a sea of lawmakers and members of previous administrations. Given the funerals proximity to the election and the heated rhetoric over the past few years some notably awkward moments were spotted by those watching the service. Trump and Pence Trump came face to face with his former Vice President Mike Pence, and the two exchanged a few words and an awkward handshake, which is perhaps the most anyone could have hoped for given that their partnership ended with a crowd of Trump supporters calling for his second-in-commands hanging during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Mikes wife Karen Pence declined to shake hands with either of the Trumps. Karen Pence doesn't shake Trump or Melania's hand at Jimmy Carter's funeral Sitting next to Pence was Clintons vice president, Al Gore, who gave Trump a steely look as he walked by. open image in gallery One of the more awkward moments of the day was a brief exchange between Donald Trump and Mike Pence, given some of the president-elects supporters called for his former VPs hanging as they stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. ( Getty Images ) Trump and Obama Obama and Trump, not known for being best buddies, raised eyebrows as they engaged in some friendly chit-chat and shared a few laughs at the otherwise somber event. One user on X wrote: Why do trump and Obama seem like besties who are gossiping about bush? Another added: Obama & Trump chatting it up like old buddies and some of yall fools skipped holiday dinners with your families over political differences. While were not sure about the nature of their conversation, no doubt Trump will post about it later today. open image in gallery President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trumps extended conversation raised eyebrows on social media. ( AFP via Getty Images ) open image in gallery Barack Obama and Donald Trump seemed to enjoy eachothers company more than some of the other former presidents gathered in Washington, D.C. ( Getty Images ) Kamala Harris and Jill Biden... and George W Bush The outgoing vice president and 2024 Democratic nominee didnt appear to acknowledge anyone as she sat down in the front row next to husband. open image in gallery A rare instance when all five living presidents were gathered in the same place - and it wasnt without incident. ( AFP via Getty Images ) As the Bidens arrived, there was also a noteable lack of a greeting between the first lady and the vice president. The relationship between Biden and Harris has been frosty since the election defeat, according to reports. Harris did, however, turn around for a quick chat with former President Bush and, towards the end of the proceedings, exchanged a few words with Obama. open image in gallery Vice President Kamala Harris shared a few words with former President George Bush towards the end of proceedings. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Bush also gave Obama an amusing belly tap as he got into his seat. The Clintons spoke mostly amongst themselves While Hillary Clinton greeted some of the other attendees with a surprised look on her face, the former secretary of state and 2016 Democratic presidential nominee mostly spoke to her husband, former President Bill Clinton. open image in gallery Former President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton mostly spoke to each other during the ceremony. ( Getty Images ) open image in gallery The Clintons were seated on the edge of a row and seemed to not mind. ( AFP via Getty Images ) Carters grandson gets attendees laughing Carters grandson, former Democratic Georgia State Senator Jason Carter, got the attendees laughing as he told stories of his grandfather. His political life and his presidency, for me, was not just ahead of its time. It was prophetic, Carter said. He had the courage and strength to stick to his principles even when they were politically unpopular. As governor of Georgia half a century ago, he preached an end to racial discrimination and an end to mass incarceration. As President in the 1970s ... he protected more land than any other president in history. Fifty years ago, he was a climate warrior who pushed for a world where we conserved energy, limited emissions, and traded our reliance on fossil fuels for expanded renewable sources, he added. By the way, he cut the deficit. Wanted to decriminalize marijuana, deregulated so many industries that he gave us cheap flights, and ... craft beer. Basically all of those years ago, he was the first millennial, Carter said to laughter in the room. open image in gallery Jimmy Carters grandson, Jason, delivered a eulogy poking fun at some of the former presidents eccentricities. ( Getty Images ) Carter also noted that Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter were just regular folks. Yes, they spent four years in the governor's mansion and four years at the White House, but the other 92 years they spent at home in Plains, Georgia, he said. One of the best ways to demonstrate that they were regular folks is to take them by that home. First of all, it looks like they might have built it themselves. Second of all, my grandfather was likely to show up at the door in some 70s short shorts and Crocs. What demonstrated their Depression-era roots, the grandson said, was a little rack next to the sink where they would hang zip lock bags to dry. 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 Two death row inmates are refusing to sign paperwork accepting President Joe Bidens commutation of their sentences to life in prison without the possibility of parole, according to NBC News. Last month, Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates in a move that was applauded by anti-death penalty advocates. But two of those prisoners, Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, who are imprisoned at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, have filed emergency motions requesting injunctions to prevent their death sentences from being commuted, saying they are still trying to prove their innocence and believe the commutations could put their appeals at risk. Death penalty appeals undergo a special process known as heightened scrutiny, with courts carefully examining such cases for mistakes because of the severe consequences of the sentence. While the process doesnt necessarily give prisoners a better chance of winning their appeal, Agofsky noted in his filing that he doesnt want to lose the heightened scrutiny process. To commute his sentence now, while the defendant has active litigation in court, is to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny. This constitutes an undue burden, and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, which would decimate his pending appellate procedures, his filing states. Meanwhile, Davis said in his filing that he has always maintained that having a death sentence would draw attention to the overwhelming misconduct that he claims the Department of Justice is guilty of. open image in gallery Guard towers rise above the grounds of the Federal Correctional Complex Terre Haute on July 25, 2019 in Terre Haute, Indiana. Two inmates at the complex have rejected the commutations of their death sentences ( Getty Images ) He added that he thanks the court for its prompt attention to this fast-moving constitutional conundrum. The case law on this issue is quite murky. But the inmates may struggle to get their death sentences restored, with a 1927 Supreme Court ruling stating that the president can grant reprieves and pardons, adding that the convicts consent is not required. Agofsky was convicted following the murder of Oklahoma bank president Dan Short, whose body was found in a lake in 1989. According to federal prosecutors, Agofsky and his brother Joseph Agofsky abducted and killed Short and stole $71,000 from the bank. Joseph Agosfky, who died in prison in 2013, was handed a life sentence for the robbery, while Shannon Agofsky got a life sentence for the murder and robbery. Shannon Agofsky was subsequently convicted of having stomped another inmate to death at a Texas prison in 2001. A jury recommended a death sentence in 2004. The 53-year-old notes in his request for an injunction on Bidens commutation that hes still attempting to clear his name in the original case. The defendant never requested commutation. The defendant never filed for commutation, the filing says. The defendant does not want commutation, and refused to sign the papers offered with the commutation. Laura Agofsky, who married Shannon Agofsky in a phone ceremony in 2019, told NBC News Monday that his lawyers had told him to request a commutation. He refused because his death row status gives him the legal counsel he needs to appeal his cases. He doesnt want to die in prison being labeled a cold-blooded killer, Laura Agofsky told NBC News. Davis is a former New Orleans police officer convicted of the murder of Kim Groves in 1994. Prosecutors claimed that Davis employed a drug dealer to kill Groves after she filed a brutality complaint against him for reportedly beating a teenager. While Daviss death sentence was thrown out, it was reinstated in 2005 by a federal appeals court. The 60-year-old filing states that he has always maintained his innocence and argued that federal court had no jurisdiction to try him for civil rights offenses. 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 The former leader of the Proud Boys has asked President-elect Donald Trump for a pardon. Henry Enrique Tarrio once served as the national chairman of the far-right group, which federal prosecutors said played a central role in the breach of the Capitol building four years ago. More than a year after he was sentenced to 22 years in prison and 36 months behind bars for his role in the Capitol riot, Tarrio has asked to be pardoned by Trump, according to a letter obtained by ABC News. The 42-year-old was portrayed throughout the Governments case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization. Henry is nothing more than a proud American that believes in true conservative values, his lawyer, Nayib Hassan wrote on Monday, which marked the four-year anniversary of the Capitol attack. Tarrio was arrested on January 4, 2021. A warrant was issued for his arrest after he admitted to burning a Black Lives Matter flag outside a historically Black church in D.C. in December 2020. open image in gallery Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio speaks at a rally in Delta Park on Sept. 26, 2020, in Portland, Oregon. He asked Trump for a pardon on the four-year anniversary of the Capitol riot, an event that federal prosecutors said his group played a central role in ( AP ) A judge then ordered him to leave the D.C. area and not partake in the rally that took place two days later, the attorney wrote. Tarrio complied with the court orders, the lawyer said. He left the D.C. area and moved to Baltimore, but still, the government pursued his client. Nonetheless, the Government pushed forward charging and prosecuting Henry, along with four individuals in the same trial, for expressing their freedom of expression, Hassan said, adding that the court imposed the largest sentence of any January 6 defendant. For most of his time in custody, Tarrio has been living in a special housing unit, during which he can see outside of his cell for just one hour each day. The rest of the time, hes kept in seclusion, the lawyer wrote. No individual should be housed for this extended time as it is cruel and an unusual punishment and can lead to major mental health concerns, Hassan argued. Granting the pardon would allow Tarrio to reintegrate into his extremely supportive family and help him contribute meaningfully to the community, the letter said. Hassan said his client has an aspiring future ahead of him and had previously been running two successful businesses before he was incarcerated. A jury found Tarrio and three co-defendants guilty of seditious conspiracy and other charges related to the Capitol attack. open image in gallery Supporters of President Donald Trump rally outside the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington ( Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Tarrio showed remorse during his sentencing hearing in September 2023. He called the Capitol attack a national embarrassment and said he would have to live with that shame for the rest of my life. But during the trials closing arguments, Hassan placed the blame on Trump: It was Donald Trumps words. It was his motivationIt was not Enrique Tarrio. They want to use Enrique Tarrio as a scapegoat for Donald J Trump and those in power. Now, hes asking the same man for clemency for his client. Tarrio isnt the only member of the neo-fascist group to ask for a pardon. Joseph Biggs, another leader of the Proud Boys, asked to be granted clemency in November shortly after Trump was re-elected. He was sentenced to 17 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release after a jury convicted him of seditious conspiracy and other crimes. These are divisive times, his attorney wrote. The divisions were acute in 2020, when millions believed the election was stolen and turned out to make sure electoral integrity was preserved. Suspicions and bitterness about the election lingers to this day. The lawyer added: A pardon of Mr. Biggs will help close that wound and inspires confidence in the future. Trump has left open the possibility of pardoning some January 6-related defendants or as he calls them, unbelievable patriots and hostages. In an interview with Meet the Press last month, the president-elect said he would most likely pardon them: Most likely, Ill do it very quickly. In the nearly four years that followed, 1,561 individuals have been criminally charged in connection to the attack. 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 ranted about Joe Bidens 625 million acre offshore drilling ban in the Atlantic and wrongly claimed it covered almost the whole ocean. Take an acre, you have a house on a half-acre or a quarter-acre, or an acre, you have a big deal, the President-elect exclaimed during a wild press conference on Tuesday. Now you multiply that by 625 million acres. Thats like... it feels like the whole ocean! However, Trumps math was off by some margin. According to National Geographic, the Atlantic Ocean covers just over 41 million square miles which is the equivalent of around 26.3 billion acres. Those 625 million acres represent only around two percent of 26.3 billion acres not quite the whole ocean as Trump claimed. It comes after Biden, whose term expires in two weeks, used his 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. open image in gallery The President-elect made the wild claim about the size of the Atlantic Ocean during a press conference on Tuesday ( AP ) Around 625 million acres of federal waters were withdrawn from energy exploration by the president in a move that may require an act of Congress to undo. Trump has previously vowed to swiftly undo Bidens ban, as well as numerous other policies. Im going to put it back on day one," Trump previously told reporters at his private club in Florida, pledging to take it to the courts if we need to." open image in gallery 625 million acres is only around two percent of 26.3 billion acres, not quite the whole ocean as the President-elect claimed. ( AP ) A favorite Trump refrain during campaign rallies was to drill baby, drill, one of his louder applause lines on the 2024 trail. On Tuesday, Trump also said that Bidens offshore drilling limitation part of a series of final actions in office by the Biden administration was undermining his own plans once back in the Oval Office. You know, they told me that were going to do everything possible to make this transition to the new administration very smooth," Trump complained on Tuesday. Its not smooth. However, Bidens team has extended access and courtesies to the Trump team that the Republican former president initially denied Biden after his 2020 election victory. Trumpsincoming chief of staff Susie Wiles told Axios in an interview published Monday that Biden chief of staff Jeff Zients has been very helpful. 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 With less than two weeks until hes once again ensconced in the Oval Office, Donald Trump opened his first press conference of 2025 in his usual style with a laundry list of grievances against his political nemesis Joe Biden. The former president turned president-elect had ostensibly called a small group of reporters from a hand-picked selection of news outlets to his Mar-a-Lago residence to announce a new $20 billion investment in American data centers by an Emirati billionaire, Hussain Sajwani, with whom his eponymous real estate and hospitality firm has partnered on several Trump-branded projects in the Persian Gulf region. After pledging to ensure that any facilities built as a part of the project would get expedited review for permitting and unspecified exemptions from environmental regulations, Trump began accusing President Joe Biden of sabotaging the transition process by using rarely-invoked presidential authority to permanently shield 625 acres of ocean floor from oil drilling efforts. He accused Biden of attempting to block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for and claimed that the presidents actions, which legal experts say would take an act of Congress to overturn, will not stand, pledging to reverse them immediately even though he may not have the authority to do so legally. He also blamed the 46th president for a host of ills, real or imagined, some new, some familiar. He repeated old grievances about windmills (which he has claimed are responsible for mass bird death and cancer) with a new twist about how their blades are not easily recyclable and blamed Biden for low water pressure in modern showers. He also suggested that the incumbent is somehow in favor of banning natural gas-powered heat and forcing electric heat upon unwilling Americans, and at one point offered up a bizarre and completely fictitious assertion that members of Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based Islamic militant group, were present at the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol (rather than his own supporters). open image in gallery Trump threatened to use his tariff policies as economic force to coerce Canada into giving up sovereignty and becoming part of the U.S. ( AP ) The familiar complaints and attacks on Biden would have been par for the course for Trump, who essentially spent most of Bidens term in office running a political operation meant to undermine his successor-turned-predecessors legitimacy and build support for his own return to the White House. But Trump soon moved on from casting aspersions on the man hell replace in office later this month and turned to making veiled threats of war on some of Americas close allies. It started with a non-sequitur about the Panama Canal, which was built by American forces more than a century ago and turned over to the Panamanian government at the turn of this century under terms of a treaty negotiated by the late 39th president, Jimmy Carter. By coincidence, Trump began expounding on the treaty one of Carters signature foreign policy successes at the same moment that a military honor guard was preparing to load the late former presidents remains aboard one of the bespoke Boeing 747 aircraft used as presidential transports for a final trip to the nations capital. He accused Carter of having given away the canal and accused Panamanian authorities of turning over operation of the canal to the Peoples Republic of China while overcharging American vessels to transit the canal. Neither of Trumps claims are grounded in fact. The canal is operated by Panamanians, and his suggestion that the U.S. is being somehow overcharged has roots in the president-elects longstanding belief that fair treatment means preferential treatment. But he ominously suggested that the canals status was under discussion. Trump turned next to two more close American allies, Mexico and Canada, to again threaten to impose tariffs on imported goods from both nations notwithstanding the terms of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement he negotiated to much fanfare during his first four years in the White House. open image in gallery Trumps press conference was underway as former U.S. President Jimmy Carters casket was being transferred to Washington, D.C. ( Getty Images ) He claimed that the U.S. is not treated well by both countries on account of trade deficits that are largely the result of market forces. But he went further with respect to Americas northern neighbor by stating that the U.S. is somehow subsidizing Canada to the tune of about $200 billion a year, plus other things and suggesting that Canada, one of the original members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, lacks a sufficiently large military to defend itself. The president-elect has made attacking Canada a frequent feature of his rhetoric in recent weeks, often suggesting that the former British dominion turned Commonwealth nation could avoid tariffs by voting to replace Charles III as Canadas head of state with the American president and becoming Americas 51st state. He also suggested that America needs to acquire Greenland from Danish control for unspecified national security reasons, returning to a theme hes expressed at times since his first term. But when pressed on whether he would rule out using military force violating the United Nations charter to take control of Greenland and Panama, Trump repeatedly refused to do so. Well, we need Greenland for national security purposes. Ive been told that for a long time, long before I even ran I mean, people have been talking about it for a long time. You have approximately 45,000 people there. People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security, he said. open image in gallery Trump ominously suggested that the canals status was under discussion. ( AP ) Trump went further by suggesting that Denmark should give up any claim to Greenland and allow some sort of plebiscite on joining the U.S. or face consequences for not doing so. If Denmark wants to get to a conclusion, but nobody knows if they even have any right title or interest, the people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the United States. But if they did, if they did do that, then I would tariff Denmark at a very high level, he added. Trump also threatened to use his tariff policies as economic force to coerce Canada into giving up sovereignty and becoming part of the U.S. That would really be something you get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like, and it would also be much better for national security. Dont forget, we basically protect Canada, he said. Its unclear whether Trump is serious about pursuing coercive policies to force a trio of sovereign nations to give up their own right to self-determination. But as he prepares to return to office, the incendiary comments represent a break from decades of American commitments to the post-Second World War international order in favor of an older paradigm, one where might makes right and where larger, more powerful countries can carve up the world into spheres of influence in which smaller nations are merely vassal states. Its not a big shift for Trump, who has long spoken of Americas alliances particularly NATO as protection rackets that provide too little value to the United States. But for the rest of the world, the president-elects words could signal a reversion from the law of civilized nations to the law of the jungle. 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 An appeals court judge has rejected Donald Trumps last-ditch attempt to stop this weeks sentencing hearing in his hush money trial. The president-elect has desperately fought to return to the White House with a clear record. But after his latest courtroom failures to overturn his conviction and sentence, Trump is set to enter office as the first criminally convicted president in U.S. history. Moments after a brief hearing with Trumps attorneys and Manhattan prosecutors on Tuesday, a New York state appellate court judge issued a one-page denial of the president-elects latest attempt to avoid his imminent court date. Trump is scheduled to be sentenced by New York Justice Juan Merchan in Manhattan criminal court on January 10. The president-elect will be inaugurated 10 days later on January 20. open image in gallery A state appeals court rejected Trumps latest attempt to stop an upcoming sentencing date in his hush money case, which is set for January 10 ( via REUTERS ) Merchan is expected to impose a sentence of unconditional discharge meaning a sentence of no jail time, probation or fines as the most viable solution to preserve the jurys verdict while letting Trump continue to appeal. Trumps attorneys argued that Merchan overstepped his jurisdiction when he allowed a sentencing date to move forward while courts were still grappling with his defense that presidential immunity should shield him from criminal prosecution and even sentencing. The appellate judge presiding over his emergency motion appeared unconvinced on Tuesday. New York Justice Ellen Gesmer stressed that Trumps hush money trial doesnt involve presidential immunity but the proposed immunity of a president-elect. Do you have any support for the notion that presidential immunity extends to a president-elect? Gesmer asked Trumps criminal defense attorney Todd Blanche. There has never been a case like this before, he replied. So no. open image in gallery Trumps criminal defense attorney Todd Blanche could not convince a New York appeals court judge to block the president-elects sentencing date in his hush money trial ( AP ) Gesmer pressed Blanche to agree that the underlying criminal conviction is about unofficial conduct outside the bounds of the Supreme Courts decision on immunity that shields presidents from prosecution for official actions while in office. The hush money case involves Trumps falsification of business records in connection with a scheme to silence adult film star Stormy Daniels, whose story about having sex with Trump threatened to derail his 2016 presidential campaign. Trumps reimbursements to his then-attorney Michael Cohen, who paid off Daniels, were falsely recorded in accounting records as legal expenses. A jury convicted Trump on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records on May 30. Gesmer rejected Blanches comparison of Trumps hush money case to the two federal criminal cases against the former president, which had not even reached trial before special counsel Jack Smith dismissed them. Justice Merchan would have been happy to hold that sentencing in July, she said. This proceeding could be concluded before his inauguration. 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 Lawyers for Donald Trump and his former co-defendants are trying to block the imminent release of a final report by special counsel Jack Smith following his prosecution of the president-elect for his attempts to overturn election results and his withholding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago compound. An anticipated report follows Smiths November decision to effectively end the cases altogether after a years-long attempt to prosecute Trump for alleged crimes spelled out in hundreds of pages of evidence. The two federal cases against Trump have ended, but prosecutors are still trying to move forward with the charges against his co-defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira in the Mar-a-Lago case. On Monday, Trumps lawyers filed a motion demanding Attorney General Merrick Garland to stop Smith from releasing the report and to fire Smith immediately. open image in gallery Special Counsel Jack Smith is expected to release a report on his prosecution of Donald Trump pending Attorney General Merrick Garlands approval ( AFP via Getty Images ) They also called Smith an out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor aiming to harm Trump politically. Accordingly, because Smith has proposed an unlawful course of action, you must countermand his plan and remove him promptly, Trumps lawyers Todd Blanche and John Lauro wrote. If Smith is not removed, then the handling of his report should be deferred to President Trumps incoming attorney general, consistent with the expressed will of the People, they added. Smith had planned to resign sometime before Trumps January 20 inauguration. The special counsel is preparing a two-volume confidential report for the attorney general, Smith wrote in a court filing on Tuesday. Smith wrote that Garland will not release the volume pertaining to the Mar-a-Lago case if he does at all before 10 a.m. January 10. He is expected to transmit that volume to the attorney generals office Tuesday. open image in gallery Jack Smiths final report is expected to detail his investigation into Donald Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Trump is now working to stop the release ( AP ) Trumps attorneys said they had briefly reviewed a draft of the report over the weekend in Smiths office in Washington, D.C. They wrote that the report described the efforts to upend the 2020 election as an unprecedented criminal effort, and that Trump, the head of the criminal conspiracies, harbored a criminal design, all of which they said was false. The lawyers argued that releasing the report would violate Trumps presidential immunity as issued by the Supreme Court echoing legal arguments from his legal team to block his conviction and sentencing in his so-called hush money case in New York. Trump is scheduled to be sentenced in that case on January 10. Trumps attorneys also argued that Smith was unconstitutionally appointed to his role, reviving their successful arguments that led Trump-appointed District Judge Aileen Cannon to dismiss the classified documents case. The Final Report promises to be a one-sided, slanted report, relying nearly exclusively on evidence presented to a grand jury and subject to all requisite protections and which is known to Smith only as a result of his unconstitutional appointment in order to serve a singular purpose: convincing the public that everyone Smith charged is guilty of the crimes charged, the lawyers wrote. Smith could not immediately be reached for comment by The Independent. Special counsels are required under Justice Department regulations to produce reports detailing their findings and charging decisions. Trump pleaded not guilty to charges filed against him in Florida accusing him of mishandling classified documents taken from the White House after he left office, and then obstructing government efforts to retrieve them. Federal prosecutors are still appealing Cannons dismissal of the charges against Nauta and De Oliveira. The president-elect was also charged with conspiracy and obstruction for his attempts to subvert the 2020 election. 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 The Florida federal judge overseeing Donald Trumps classified documents case is blocking Attorney General Merrick Garland from releasing a report prepared by the prosecutor who led the classified documents criminal cases against the president-elect. A stunning order from District Judge Aileen Cannon on Monday arrived hours after the former president and his co-defendants urged the courts to prevent special counsel Jack Smith from publishing a report that is expected to detail his investigations, which drew to a close following his presidential election victory. Cannon who was appointed to the bench by Trump in 2020 is effectively ordering the Department of Justice to reject guidelines that put decisions about special counsel reports in the hands of the attorney general. Its unclear whether Cannon even has the authority to make such an extraordinary move in a case that is no longer in her court. Its also unclear whether Cannon can block the release of the entire report, including Smiths investigation into Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, which was prosecuted in a completely different court. open image in gallery Florida District Judge Aileen Cannon is temporarily blocking the release of Jack Smiths final report into Trumps alleged mishandling of classified documents and attempts to overturn 2020 presidential election results ( via REUTERS ) The judge has faced intense scrutiny and criticism for her handling of the Mar-a-Lago case, culminating in her bombshell decision to dismiss the charges, arguing that Smiths appointment violates the Constitution and usurps the role of Congress in funding that office. Her order on Monday temporarily prohibits Garland, Smith and any other Justice Department officers from releasing, sharing, or transmitting any drafts of the report for at least three days after an appeals court decision on the reports release. The decision scrambles final steps from federal prosecutors to publicly share their findings from investigations into Trumps withholding of classified documents and his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Trump learned about Cannons ruling during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago. He called Cannon a very strong and a very brilliant judge. So he wanted to do a report, just before I take office, probably, so hell do like a 500-page report, and it will be a fake report just like the investigation was a fake investigation, he said of Smiths prosecution. Theyre not allowed to issue the report? Thats the way it should be. ... Why should he be allowed to write a fake report? open image in gallery Trump praised Judge Cannon during a Jnauary 7 press conference at Mar-a-Lago, moments after she temporarily blocked Smiths report ( AP ) On Monday, Trumps lawyers filed a motion demanding the courts to stop Garland and Smith from releasing the report and to fire Smith immediately. Trumps legal team also called Smith an out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor aiming to harm Trump politically. Accordingly, because Smith has proposed an unlawful course of action, you must countermand his plan and remove him promptly, Trumps lawyers Todd Blanche and John Lauro wrote. If Smith is not removed, then the handling of his report should be deferred to President Trumps incoming attorney general, consistent with the expressed will of the People, they added. Smith had planned to resign sometime before Trumps January 20 inauguration. Trump wanted to fire him within two seconds of his return to office. His anticipated final report follows a post-election decision to effectively end his prosecution of Trumps two federal cases altogether after a years-long attempt to prosecute Trump for alleged crimes spelled out in hundreds of pages of evidence. Trumps attorneys said they had briefly reviewed a draft of the report over the weekend in Smiths office in Washington, D.C. They wrote that the report described Trumps efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election as an unprecedented criminal effort, and that Trump the head of the criminal conspiracies harbored a criminal design. 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 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. 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. 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. 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. open image in gallery 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. 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. 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, 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. 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. 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 Jr. has arrived in Greenlands capital Nuuk for a private visit., The visit on Tuesday comes shortly after his father, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, reiterated his interest in the resource-rich Arctic island. Trump Jr. arrived in his fathers Trump Force One private plane at about 1250 GMT, according to a livestream from Nuuk airport and flight tracking websites. The visit to a freezing, snow-covered Nuuk was expected to last four to five hours, and no meetings were scheduled with government officials, a local official told Reuters. No, I am not buying Greenland, Trump Jr. said in a podcast on Monday, alluding to his fathers recent comments. Funny enough, Im actually going on a very long personal day trip to Greenland. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, is geographically part of the North American continent, and its capital Nuuk is closer to New York than to the Danish capital Copenhagen. Map of Nuuk in Greenland: On Monday, President-elect Trump praised the island on his social media platform Truth Social, promising to 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 added that his son was visiting Greenland to see some of the most magnificent areas and sights. In 2019, Trump postponed a scheduled Denmark visit after Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rebuffed his idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland. Trump, 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 and stating last month that U.S. control of Greenland is an absolute necessity. open image in gallery Nuuk, the capital of Greenland Denmark, a close NATO ally, has seen relations with Greenland worsen in recent years, prompted by revelations of misconduct by its former colonial ruler Denmark. Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has stated that the island is not for sale, but in his New Year speech stepped up a push for independence from Denmark. Denmarks PM 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 Greenlands future, she 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 Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of Frances far-right National Rally (RN) party, has died aged 96. Le Pen, who led the party for nearly four decades until 2011, when it was called National Front (FN), had previously been taken to hospital with suspected heart problems. The former paratrooper founded the party in 1972 but it was only when he handed the reins to his daughter Marine Le Pen in 2011 that his rebranded party really caught sight of power. Ms Le Pen made efforts to distance herself from her fathers controversies since then, including his Holocaust denial and sympathy for Frances Vichy government, which collaborated with the Nazis. Despite this, it has often been said Ms Le Pens brutal upbringing and family life under her father left a mark on her worldview and politics. Here, The Independent takes a look at the history of the Le Pen family and how the National Front has changed over the years. open image in gallery French far-right National Front (FN) founder Jean-Marie Le Pen attends a May Day ceremony in 2019 ( REUTERS ) Born in 1928, Le Pen described himself throughout his life as ni droite, ni gauche, francais - not right, not left, but French. He came of age during the Algerian War between 1952 and 1962, where he served as a French paratrooper and resented former French president Charles de Gaulle for ending the conflict. Ten years later, he founded the National Front which slowly grew in popularity over the years, going from 1 per cent in the 1974 polls to 15 per cent in 1995. In 1987, he played down the Holocaust - Nazi Germanys murder of six million Jews - by claiming it was a detail in the history of the Second World War and that he never personally saw the gas chambers. By 2007, Le Pen had waned as a political star and came fourth in the presidential election. After a few years of soul-searching, he stood down and his daughter Marine took over in 2011. open image in gallery Marine Le Pen, who would go on to lead National Rally, was the youngest of her fathers three daughters ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Ms Le Pen was born on 5 August 1968 at Neuilly-sur-Seine, the youngest of Jean-Marie Le Pens three daughters. The girls were raised in Montretout, a 19th century mansion on a hill overlooking the Seine that was gifted to their father him by a cement magnate supporter. In 1976, when Ms Le Pen was eight years old, the familys Paris apartment was bombed by her fathers enemies as the entire front of the building was blown open. The bomber was never identified and the incident caused Ms Le Pen to be shunned by classmates at the Lycee Florent Schmitt in Saint-Cloud where she was studying, many of whom considered her dangerous. She was elected as a regional councillor of Nord-Pas-de-Calais in 1998 and served until 2004, before winning the same office in Ile-de-France, in Nord-Pas-de-Calais again in 2010 and in Hauts-de-France in 2015, completing six-year terms in each case. open image in gallery Marine Le Pen hoped to make National Rally more electable and even expelled her father in 2015 ( Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Ms Le Pen was also a member of the European Parliament between 2004 and 2017, a municipal councillor of Henin-Beaumont between 2008 and 2011 and succeeded her father as leader of the NF in 2011, securing two-thirds of the vote and seeing off a challenge from Bruno Gollinsch. His daughter hoped to make the party electable, starting the process of moderating the worst of its racist, xenophobic and homophobic policies. That rebranding or dediabolisation (de-demonisation) finally caused her to suspend and then expel her own father in 2015 over his Holocaust denial. In 2024, it looked as if her efforts might have worked. The party did well in the first round of voting - but was ultimately defeated in the final round. Pollsters had widely expected National Rally to emerge as the largest party in Frances National Assembly but it was the leftist New Popular Front comprising the Socialists, Greens, Communists and Jean-Luc Melenchons far-left France Unbowed (LFI) which won the most seats. 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. 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 denied Russian claims that they have captured a key town in the eastern Donetsk region, but admitted that the situation looks desperate. Russia claimed control of the eastern town of Kurakhove on Monday, after months of heavy fighting. The town has been decimated by continuous Russian shelling. A Ukrainian military spokesperson, however, said on Monday that fighting is ongoing in the western outskirts of the town. Currently, the situation in Kurakhove is indeed quite difficult, because a significant part of the city has been destroyed, spokesperson Viktor Tregubov said. [But] Ukrainian troops are holding on in the western part of the town, on the western outskirts of the town. He added that fighting was taking place around the towns thermal plant. Russias defence ministry often prematurely claims control of towns and cities in Ukraine, but footage over the past few days has shown soldiers raising their white, red and blue flag in Kurakhove. Ukrainian war tracker DeepState, known to have close ties to the military, records the town as almost completely occupied. Ukrainian commentators have also been candid about the fate of the area. The town of Kurakhove is effectively lost, wrote Ukrainian journalist Yuriy Butusov, before acknowledging that some fighting was still taking place in the towns industrial areas in the west. He later criticised what he says is Ukrainian commands insistence on defending what is left of the town despite the fact that the ratio of losses to the enemy is unfavourable to us. He drew comparisons to the losses of Soledar, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Vuhledar, which are towns and cities also in the Donetsk region that all fell to the Russians after months of heavy fighting. Vladimir Putins forces, employing a tactic used throughout their full-scale invasion of Ukraine, all but completely destroyed the areas before eventually capturing them. Mr Tregubov said the Russians were doing the same with Kurakhove. They are trying to destroy all houses, even low-rise buildings, he said, adding that this was making it harder for Ukraines forces to defend the area. The main thrust of Russias attack in the Donetsk region has been towards the city of Pokrovsk around 15 miles to the north, which sits on logistical lines feeding the wider area, but Kurakhove has been a clear goal of Mr Putins forces for months. After months of slow and costly advances, Russian forces are also within a few miles of Pokrovsk. Meanwhile, in the Russian border region of Kursk, Ukraines forces continued to advance following a surprise counterattack. Ukraines general staff acknowledged the attack, which began over the weekend, for the first time on Tuesday, before adding that they were currently commencing new offensive operations, in the area. Russia has shrunk Ukraines partial hold of the Kursk region by about half since Kyivs forces launched the cross-border attack last August, but Ukrainian troops have fortified their positions in the centre of the area they control. The majority of recent fighting has been concentrated to the east Sudzha, the only city in Kursk controlled by Kyiv, with Ukrainian forces advancing to the north and Russia countering in the south. Holding onto this sliver of Russian territory could prove vital in possible peace negotiations between Moscow and Ukraine. 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 Dozens of samples of rock and sediment collected from Mars that could be used to detect ancient microbial life could be returned to Earth as soon as 2035 and as late as 2039, depending on the course of the next few months, NASA announced Tuesday. The agency has collected 30 samples on the red planet but the cost of getting them back had delayed the Mars Sample Return mission. It was initially estimated at $11 billion, with a 2040 return date: a price tag and timeline that administrator Bill Nelson explained was simply unacceptable. Now, the U.S. space agency says it is exploring a pair of less expensive options, and making its final decision on which to pick likely by next year. NASA could use what had already been previously tested and successfully used: the Sky Crane landing system that had been used to lower the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers to the Martian surface. That would cost between $6.6 and $7.7 billion. Alternatively, they could pick a heavy lander devised by existing commercial partners. That would be cheaper, ranging between $5.8 to $7.1 billion. open image in gallery NASAs Perseverance Mars rover used one of its navigation cameras to take this image of flat terrain in Jezero Crater. This is one possible site that NASA may consider for a Mars Sample Return lander that would collect Perseverances samples of Mars rock and sediment in the future. ( NASA/JPL-Caltech ) open image in gallery This artist's concept shows Sky Crane during the descent of NASA's Curiosity rover to the Martian surface. NASA said it was considering using the technology for its Mars Sample Return Mission ( NASA/JPL-Caltech ) Either of these two options are creating a much more simplified, faster, and less expensive version than the original plane, Nelson told reporters at a briefing. He said that the function of when the return good be done is dependent upon the new administration, Congress, and how much money they would want to spend. In April of last year, NASA said it was seeking innovative designs to return valuable samples from Mars to Earth. Such samples will not only help us understand the formation and evolution of our solar system but can be used to prepare for future human explorers and to aid in NASAs search for signs of ancient life, the agency said. This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates. 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 Channel 4 News presenter Cathy Newman has said she found deepfake pornography of herself haunting and kept on returning to the images. The 50-year-old journalist became her own case study in an investigation that found at least 250 British celebrities have been victims of the online phenomenon where victims faces and/or bodies are superimposed onto pornography using artificial intelligence (AI). It comes as ministers are seeking to crack down on sexually explicit deepfake images, with the practice to become a criminal offence. Newman discussed her experience on ITVs Good Morning Britain (GMB) on Tuesday, alongside former Love Island contestant Cally Jane Beech, who said she had discovered an explicit, digitally altered image of herself on a website. Beech said: I was just contacted out of the blue and someone said Theres an explicit image of you, and I said Well, that cant be true, because I knew I hadnt taken anything like that. And they said Its on Google, so I asked them to send me the link so I could have a look, opened it and, to my surprise, there was there an image of me. I knew it wasnt real because I had the original photo and it was for an underwear campaign but the underwear wasnt there. The 33-year-old found where the site was being hosted and said it advertised that it could strip womens clothes when users upload images. And thats when I found out where the real issue was, took to my social media, spoke out on there about it, she said. And then a lot of people came rushing forward and said This is a major problem, but it was never something I realised was an issue until that point, how big it was and how many people contacted me. Asked how it felt to discover the images, she said: I think it was a bit of mixed emotions. At first I was just a bit in shock, I wasnt quite sure what to feel. Beech said she realised it could happen to her daughter and was told that paedophiles have been using this AI technology for their own access as well. She also said that when she called police there was not a lot they could do because they said the image was not a real picture of her. Last year, Channel 4 aired an investigation after carrying out an analysis of the five most visited deepfake websites, finding around 250 of the almost 4,000 famous individuals listed were British, with all but two being women. During the research, Newman watched a video where her face had been superimposed onto pornography after colleagues stumbled across a deepfake porn video of her. She told GMB: I decided to, in a way, be my own case study. I hadnt seen the video before we started filming and I kind of thought Well, you know, every day we cover gruesome stories, it will be water off a ducks back. But I found myself keeping on returning to the images, it was haunting. And I think the worst thing about it, as youve reflected (to Beech), (is) not knowing who created this video, and why, and where they were, and who they were, and I still think about that. Channel 4 News said it contacted more than 40 celebrities for its investigation, all of whom were unwilling to comment publicly. The broadcaster also said it found that more than 70% of visitors arrived at deepfake websites using search engines like Google. The Government will target people who are both creating and sharing these types of images in a new deepfakes offence. This builds on offences aimed at clamping down on the sharing of intimate images, including deepfakes, introduced in 2023. 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 Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, doesnt think too highly of his scorned former collaborator Elon Musk, saying he will do all sorts of bad things - but wont use his newfound political influence to take down competitors. Despite years of feuding and Musk leveling a dramatic lawsuit containing allegations of ethical violations against Altman and OpenAI, Altman defended Musk when asked if he thought Musk would use his political power and friendship with President-elect Donald Trump to target his rivals. Oh, I think hell do all sorts of bad s***, Altman told Bloomberg in an interview on Sunday. I think hell continue to sue us and drop lawsuits and make new lawsuits and whatever else. Altman continued, ... Will he abuse his political power of being co-president, or whatever he calls himself now, to mess with a business competitor? I dont think hell do that. I genuinely dont. open image in gallery OpenAI CEO Sam Altman once collaborated with Elon Musk to create the artificial intelligence company. While he doesnt think too fondly of Musks future, he did say he doesnt believe Musk will use his new political influence to target rivals ( Getty Images ) Musk and Altman once sought to save humanity from the dangers of artificial intelligence through the co-founded company OpenAI the parent company of ChatGPT. However, a dispute over the direction of the company, and an internal power struggle, led to a falling out between the two. Musk ultimately left the company in 2018 and has since worked to create his own AI company. The battle between Altman and Musk turned publicly nasty last year when Musk filed a lawsuit against the company and Altman claiming he and other executives breached the companys founding agreement to benefit humanity over profit. Musk made his feelings about Altman and OpenAI evident in mocking social media posts. Musk dropped the lawsuit but filed another one against Altman and OpenAI, this time elevating his accusations to claim OpenAI worked with Microsoft, an investor, to create a monopoly. The billionaire also alleged the company violated its founding claim as a nonprofit by pursuing profit. OpenAI has denied the allegations. open image in gallery Musk has proven to be a powerful figure in politics thanks to his proximity to President-elect Donald Trump ( Getty Images ) In December, the artificial intelligence company posted a lengthy, accusatory blog post that included screenshots of emails and texts showing Musk agreeing the company should pivot from nonprofit to for-profit. They claimed Musk bitterly left the company after the board refused to make him CEO or agree to his suggestion to merge Tesla and OpenAI. They claim Musk started his artificial intelligence company, xAI, to compete directly with OpenAI. He says a lot of things, starts them, undoes them, gets sued, sues, gets in fights with the government, gets investigated by the government. Thats just Elon being Elon, Altman told Bloomberg. But Altman believes that he and Musk still share a conviction that artificial intelligence is important but needs to be handled carefully. Despite Musks close proximity to Trump having been named co-chair of the advisory board the Department of Government Efficiency Altman does not think Musk would go so far as to use his power to quash a competitor. May turn out to be proven wrong, Altman added. 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 Enron has announced the Enron Egg, a micro-nuclear reactor that the newly reformed company claims can power homes for a decade. The only catch is that the parody companys revolution in energy, which comes complete with a highly-produced launch video, appears to be just an elaborate joke. Still, the shiny, white Enron Egg is allegedly available for pre-order, Enron said, calling it the worlds first micro-nuclear reactor made to power your home. Interested parties would just need to submit their email addresses to subscribe to the newsletter and be the first to know when we launch. This product is gonna revolutionize three critical industries. The power industry, the independence industry, and the freedom industry. This product is gonna revolutionize all three, Enron CEO Connor Gaydos claimed in a video presentation announcing the egg. Gaydos is also the co-founder of the satirical Birds Aren't Real movement, which asserts that all real birds existing in the U.S. had been forcibly made extinct and were replaced by the government with surveillance drones that look like birds. The miraculous egg, which is presented as nuclear you can trust, would be provided to FEMAs rapid response teams, he said. It could power a home for as long as a decade. All of this made possible by the Enron mining division, which has been sourcing the proprietary enronium ore, which I think youll agree has unlocked a new atomic age, said Gaydos. Of course, there is no such thing as enronium. Uranium ore is what is mined and used to produce nuclear energy. The video also featured Enrons purported Chief Technology Officer Daniel Wong, who was reportedly responsible for the design of the egg. Wong touted the eggs extreme heat resistance which is made possible by its advanced enronium [isotope] casing. open image in gallery Enron CEO Connor Gaydos poses for a photo holding the Enron Egg. The Egg, a micro-nuclear reactor, is a parody, but the launch had social media users questioning its legitimacy ( Enron ) At the heart of the egg, lies a uranium zirconium hydride-fueled reactor, chosen for its safety and efficiency, he explained, noting that the reactor has a little TV so the Enron team is always watching. Enron said that the egg only uses 20 percent enriched uranium, which is far too low to make an atomic weapon, Wong assured. The company noted on its website that a closed-loop cooling system ensures safe operation without environmental contamination and that safety is a top priority in the eggs design. The pair walked off the stage to the Black Eyed Peas hit song I Gotta Feeling. The price for the rigorously tested product that adheres to strict safety standards for residential use is unlisted. It doesnt mention any radiation, set up, or servicing. The Enron Egg is significantly more affordable than traditional energy systems, which cost between $19,000 and $50,000 while being subject to power fluctuations. The Egg offers a reliable, constant energy source at a fraction of the long-term cost, Enron says. open image in gallery The Enron Egg sits in front of a fireplace in this advertisement. The egg is allegedly available for pre-order ( Enron ) Companies are investing in nuclear energy more and more, as they look for cleaner sources of energy to support artificial intelligence demands. Microreactors are real, and they could be used for emergency response, according to the Department of Energy. While commercial microreactors may be coming that are a good deal larger than the egg and Enron was once a real energy company, the egg rollout has earned a Community Note on the social media platform X. The product launch is satire, the note said. Enron returned to the public eye in December. Not everyone got the parody right away, but those who did had a laugh. You have to break a few eggs to make a nuclear omelet! wrote X user @DreamStarter_1, alongside an image of an omelet topped with a vibrant green swirl. 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 The US has added social media and gaming giant Tencent to an updated list of firms that it alleges have ties to Chinas military. The Defense Department has added the parent company of WeChat to its annually updated Section 1260H list of companies which Washington believes participate in Chinas Military-Civil Fusion strategy. The strategy is reportedly aimed at modernising the Chinese military by working with local companies. Tencent, which has a stake in popular video games PUBG and Fortnite, called its inclusion in the list a mistake and said it was willing to work with Pentagon to address any misunderstanding. The company said it would initiate a reconsideration process and undertake legal proceedings if necessary. We are not a military company or supplier. Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business, the internet giant said. A man walks past Tencent headquarters in Shenzhen ( AFP via Getty ) The updated list, released just days before Donald Trump takes over as the president, also includes battery maker CATL, which supplies to global EV makers like Tesla. CATL responded to the Pentagons list saying that it was not engaged in any military-related activities. The Chinese foreign ministry said, in a briefing on Tuesday, it had urged the US to lift its illegal unilateral sanctions against the companies. Although addition to the list does not mean an immediate ban, it affects the reputations of the companies and puts pressure on the Treasury to sanction them. It also disincentivises American firms from dealing with these Chinese companies. China levels sanctions on 7 companies over US military aid to Taiwan Shares of Tencent Holdings fell by nearly 7 per cent on Tuesday after its inclusion in the Pentagon list became known, costing the company $35.4bn in market value. Shares of CATL fell about 4 per cent. The move comes amid a growing trade war between the US and China which escalated last week when Beijing banned the export of technology used to extract key minerals for the electric vehicle industry. China also recently banned the export of products to 28 US defence companies and put 10 of them on its unreliable entities list. In addition, Beijing sanctioned seven American companies in response to Washington announcing military sales and aid to Taiwan. The US has expanded export controls on semiconductors to China, alleging that Beijing could use them to make next-generation weapons and artificial intelligence systems for its military. The US is also mulling a ban on the sale of a popular Chinese-made internet router that is already in use in many American homes. Footage of North Koreas latest missile test has been shown by state media as leader Kim Jong Un vowed to expand his collection of nuclear-capable weapons. North Korea said its latest weapons on Tuesday (7 January) was a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile designed to strike remote targets in the Pacific. The North Korean state media report came a day after South Koreas military said it detected North Korea launching a missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The launch, conducted weeks before Donald Trump returns as US president, came off a torrid year in weapons testing. Robert Jenrick defended the Conservatives record on bringing justice to victims of the grooming gang scandal during a heated clash with BBC Radio 4 Today presenter Nick Robinson. The shadow justice secretary was asked four times by the frustrated BBC journalist if he raised tougher sentences for grooming gang perpetrators when he was Home Office minister, during the Today show on Tuesday (7 January). Mr Jenrick replied: I did discuss this with the Home Secretary, I wrote about this last year and I was criticised about it. Mr Robinson then proceeded to tell the Tory MP he had not raised the issue after checking search terms in Hansard. The journalist told him: You have not raised the issue of mass gang rape as a minister or in the House of Commons. 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. Musicians entertain a crowd on Grafton Street in Dublin, renowned for its busking scene. Photo: Getty A chorus of disapproval by buskers on Dublins Grafton Street over plans for new apartments has fallen on deaf ears. Dublin City Council has granted planning permission to Winthrop Co-Ownership to a change of use on the second, third and fourth floors at 4-5 Grafton Street to build four apartments. This is despite fears expressed by Grafton Street buskers and their supporters that the proposal would lead to the decline of one of the most iconic busking streets in the world. Businessman David Goddard, who led the recent buy-out of Davys real estate arm, co-owns 4-5 Grafton Street along former Davy boss Brian McKiernan. Both Mr Goddard and Mr McKiernans Middle Cow Ltd provided letters of consent to the council to allow Winthrop Co-Ownership lodge the plans. However, in an objection against the plans, busker Jacob Koopman told the council that his concern over the residential units for the area will replicate the issues we have witnessed in Temple Bar, where noise complaints have disproportionately targeted buskers. A busker and resident here for the past 12 years, Mr Koopman said: Despite our relatively low impact compared to pubs and other venues, we have faced restrictions, including the recent ban on amplification. Marc Pyssa told the council that the approval of the scheme would ultimately lead to the erosion of this cultural gem. Francesco Parodi told the council: As a street performer and musician who has made Ireland my home, this development poses a serious threat to my livelihood and to the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Grafton Street itself. Andrew Kavanagh told the council that as a 42-year-old musician, allowing the apartments to proceed will inevitably result in complaints about street music and that will directly impact my ability to support my family. The council granted planning after concluding that the development is particularly timely in light of the considerable level of vacancy of floor space on the upper floors of commercial premises in the city, which could help towards alleviating the existing housing pressures within the city. The buskers now have the option of appealing the council decision to An Bord Pleanala. The proposed development of Smyths pub on Haddington Road, Dublin, which is facing opposition Plans to demolish Smyths pub on Dublins Haddington Road, described as a D4 gem, and replace it with a pub and apartments is facing opposition. In its plans, Courtney Lounge Bars Ltd is proposing the demolition of all existing buildings on the site at 10 Haddington Road and the construction of a four storey and part-five storey mixed-use building comprising a pub at basement and ground floor and six residential units at the upper floors. A planning report lodged with the application states that the replacement building is considered to be a significant improvement from the building it replaces and will be a positive addition to the character of the area. However, in response the Pembroke Road Association has told the council that a local pub can be a wonderful social amenity in a mixed residential area, as Smyths has been over the years, but a super pub in the same type of area is a problem. On behalf of the association, Susan McCarrick has told the council that the development is clearly too high and we have a concern with its bulk and massing and general visual dominance. Ms McCarrick contends that the scheme is contrary to the provisions of the current Dublin City Development Plan and would set an undesirable precedent. Former environment editor at The Irish Times Frank McDonald has told the council that protecting Dublins heritage is important, especially in a city that has lost so many of the elements that give it character and authenticity. He said: Smyths pub may not have retained as much of its Victorian interior as Toners and Doheny & Nesbitt on Baggot Street or Keoghs on South Anne Street, but it is of real value as a remnant of old Dublin. Mr McDonald states that the pubs own website describes itself as a D4 gem. He said that now, this gem, sandwiched as it is between brasher elements of new Dublin, is destined for the chopping block, to be replaced by a significantly larger bar extending over the entire ground-floor area from Haddington Road to Percy Place. In response to the concerns, the council sought further information requesting the applicant to revisit the design of the structure and to reduce its overall mass and bulk. In the further information response, an architects report says that the building height when viewed from Haddington Road is appropriate when viewed in the wider architectural context. It has been alleged that the Co Kildare-based UK national used client funds to pay for a lavish lifestyle Paul Wright has been accused of using money for hotels and drugs A US firm that has sued Co Kildare-based businessman Paul Wright in Florida will seek disclosure of his financial and professional background as well as alleged health issues including a brain aneurysm and a hand surgery as part of a case where he has been accused of using client money to bankroll a lavish lifestyle. And in new documents filed with the Florida court, Mr Wright and two of his firms that have been sued in the action by Florida firm TMCT insist that he has no connections with the state despite claims to the contrary and that the case against them should be heard in England. This is a simple dispute between UK entities over alleged non-payment of a debt incurred, if anywhere, in the UK, notes a filing by Mr Wrights lawyers in support of the move to dismiss the case in Florida. Mr Wright, a UK national who lives at Carton Demense in Maynooth, Co Kildare, has been sued in West Palm Beach by a Florida firm called TMCT, which is owed by a woman named Cherish Thompson. She has claimed that she was introduced to Mr Wright in London in 2020, and that her business is now owed $221,000 (213,000) by the defendants. Her firm has also sued two of Mr Wrights Dublin-based companies, Eterna Private Clients Europe and Wright Private Office. The lawsuit against them also claims that Mr Wright spends client money on an excessively lavish lifestyle that includes private jets, swanky hotels, dining at expensive restaurants, and fuelling his drugs and alcohol habit. Mr Wright and his companies have denied the claims, describing the allegations as outlandish and unfounded. These proceedings have been instituted by an aggrieved former independent contractor to a UK company Mr Wright was involved with and which is currently in administration and have absolutely nothing to do with Eterna Private Clients Europe DAC or Wright Private Office DAC, his solicitor in Ireland stated when the lawsuit was initiated. Mr Wright and his firms have claimed that TMCT is allegedly owed money by a UK entity. Because plaintiff does not want to pursue that claim in the UK where the alleged debtor is in insolvency and because this court obviously lacks jurisdiction over such a claim, which belongs in the UK, plaintiff attempts to distract with a completely irrelevant story about an unrelated Florida investment involving non-parties and unrelated attempts to recover funds lost in that investment, new filings by Mr Wrights lawyers in the US state. Declarations were recently filed by three individuals who say they previously worked for Mr Wright and his firms. They have insisted that he and firms connected to him have solicited investors and engaged in activity in Florida. One individual, Florida-based James Evans, has attested that he worked full-time for Mr Wright and his entities for more than six years in Florida, acting as his international associate director and compliance and administrative officer. Neither Mr Wright nor any of the defendant entities ever retained Mr Evans, ever had an engagement letter or contract for services with Mr Evans, ever paid Mr Evans any monies, ever requested or authorised Mr Evans to serve as an agent in Florida, and ever asked Mr Evans to maintain any office in Florida, Mr Wrights lawyers have stated. The company, headquartered in Waterford, is seeking opportunities around data centres and infrastructure in Britain Suir Engineering has acquired Scottish mechanical and electrical engineering business Taylor & Fraser, as it continues to expand into the UK. The acquisition follows the companys recent launch of its first offices in London and Manchester. One of Suir Engineerings main areas of focus in the UK is data centres. It also works in sectors including pharmaceuticals, energy, utilities, food and beverages. This was an investment in the double digits. Our operation to set up in Scotland, including people and property, is probably going to cost us up to 12m in total, said CEO John Kelly. Taylor & Francis was a family business waiting for investment and modernisation. It was a very easy fit for us culturally. It was already making a yearly turnover of 50m and if we bring our sectors to them, we think we can easily bring it up to around 80m. Taylor & Fraser is a mechanical and electrical engineering and construction company that has run for 114 years in its headquarters in Paisley. It will continue to operate under the same name and retain its 180 employees. CEO John Kelly The UK presents significant opportunities for companies such as Suir Engineering. There is a major shift in infrastructure development in the UK with significant investment going into on and offshore energy projects, said a spokesperson. The UK is one of the biggest regions in Europe for data centres and the government is designating data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, an asset considered essential for the wellbeing of society. This puts UK data centres alongside energy and water supplies, transportation, health and telecommunications. Taylor & Francis has worked across the UK including on projects such as Big Ben. It also works in hospitality, education, commercial, health, industrial, manufacturing, public and private sectors. Mr Kelly added: The team brings with it a wealth of mechanical and electrical engineering expertise, and an outstanding legacy built over three generations. We now have a UK presence at three key locations and have further plans for expansion. In terms of Ireland, we think energy and life science projects are going to increase but data centres are going to contract. Ireland remains the companys biggest market, contributing 300m to the groups revenue in 2023. The company hopes to expand further across the UK and Europe. The Meta CEO said Donald Trumps election has reset the cultural rules and that Meta will change its systems to reflect that, setting the company on a new collision course with the EU Meta is to get rid of fact checkers, loosen rules on hate speech and push back against Europe and other regulatory bodies that try to censor content through their own laws, according to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Mr Zuckerberg said the recent election of Donald Trump is a cultural tipping point and that the company will now rely on Mr Trumps White House to fight the EUs laws on content moderation. He said the trade off for doing this is that Meta will catch less bad stuff but will also reduce the number of innocent people's posts and accounts that we accidentally take down. The move is likely to bring the company into immediate conflict with EU institutions such as the European Commission and Irelands Coimisiun na Mean, which enforces large tranches of European content moderation law on social media giants. But Mr Zuckerberg said the company would rely on Mr Trump to battle the EU and other non-American governments on the issue. We're going to work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more, he said. In a swipe at the outgoing Biden administration, Mr Zuckerberg said conditions had been difficult over the past four years when even the US government has pushed for censorship by going after us and other American companies. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg speaking today Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th January 2025 Mr Trumps election, he said, has reset the rules. Now we have the opportunity to restore free expression, and I am excited to take it, he said. It was not immediately clear what the move means for Metas Irish headquarters, which employs over 3,000 people. However, Mr Zuckerberg said the EU has become a difficult place for tech companies to grow or do business. Europe has an ever increasing number of laws institutionalising censorship and making it difficult to build anything innovative, he said. In the last three years, Meta has attracted fines of over 2bn from Irelands Data Protection Commissioner alone for its behaviour. Mr Zuckerberg said content rules currently in place to protect people on issues such as gender and immigration have gone too far. We're going to simplify our content policies and get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse, he said, without specifying what would or would not be allowed from now on. What started as a movement to be more inclusive has increasingly been used to shut down opinions and shut out people with different ideas and it's gone too far. So I want to make sure that people can share their beliefs and experiences on our platforms. Mr Zuckerberg said Meta will copy Elon Musks system of community notes user feedback as a way of cutting down on content moderation. We're going to get rid of fact checkers and replace them with community notes similar to X, starting in the US, he said. After Trump first got elected in 2016, the legacy media wrote non-stop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy. We tried, in good faith, to address those concerns without becoming the arbiters of truth, but fact checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the US. So over the next couple of months, we're going to phase in a more comprehensive community health system. The move comes a week after Nick Clegg, Metas global policy chief and a former British deputy prime minister, announced he was leaving the company. Mr Zuckerberg said much of the debate about potential harm from online content is clearly political that is pushed by legacy media. There's also a lot of legitimately bad stuff out there such as drugs, terrorism and child exploitation. These are things that we take very seriously, and I want to make sure that we handle responsibly. So we built a lot of complex systems to moderate content, but the problem with complex systems is they make mistakes. "Even if they accidentally censor just one per cent of posts, that's millions of people, and we've reached a point where it's just too many mistakes and too much censorship. The recent elections feel like a cultural tipping point towards once again, prioritising speech. So we're going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms. Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinese navigation service giant AutoNavi and Great Wall Motor (GWM) recently inaugurated their Mobility Joint Innovation Lab in Hebei Province, which focuses on advancing smart mobility solutions, AutoNavi announced via WeChat. Photo credit: AutoNavi The Mobility Joint Innovation Lab leverages both parties' expertise in mobility and automotive industries, combining resources, sharing data, and fostering interdisciplinary research. By analyzing users' pain points and integrating cross-platform data, the lab seeks to improve trip planning accuracy and efficiency, prioritizing user-centric solutions. The joint lab also plans to collaborate with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry associations, promoting the integration of research and application for scalable innovation. Photo credit: AutoNavi The joint lab represents a deepening of the long-standing partnership between AutoNavi and GWM. Since 2018, AutoNavi's in-car navigation system has been integrated into GWM vehicles, achieving coverage across the automaker's entire brand lineup by 2019. In 2020, their collaboration advanced with the integration of AutoNavi's AutoSDK product version, supporting GWM's intelligent upgrades. To date, the partnership extends to over 55 vehicle models across GWM's five major brands, focusing on high-precision mapping and lane-level navigation. Looking ahead, the duo is set to deliver innovative features, such as blind-spot crossing alerts, smart parking, adaptive traffic light navigation, and intelligent voice guidance based on AutoSDK 810 version navigation system. These functionalities will debut in GWM's vehicle models, marking another step forward in enhancing user experiences and driving efficiency. Incoming US president Donald Trump has pledged broad tariffs to bolster the US economy. Photo: Bloomberg Global stocks rose while the US dollar index dropped yesterday after US president-elect Donald Trump denied a newspaper report that his incoming administration would likely pursue a less-aggressive tariff policy than he previously threatened. European stocks and currencies climbed following a Washington Post report earlier on Monday 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. ASAP Rocky, who is set to face a criminal trial over gun charges later this month, has been announced as a headline act at the Californian Rolling Loud Festival in March. The US rapper is billed to top performances at the Hollywood Park Grounds in Los Angeles on Saturday March 15, with Playboi Carti headlining the Sunday stage of the hip-hop festival. The announcement comes weeks before Rocky is set to face a jury on charges that he fired a gun at a former friend and collaborator on the streets near a Hollywood hotel in 2021. 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 Rocky, real name Rakim Mayers, previously pleaded not guilty to two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. The trial had been scheduled to start on November 12 2024, but his team previously requested that it be postponed because Rocky was set to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in Thailand. A case readiness hearing is expected to take place on January 15, ahead of jury selection on January 21, with the trial expected to last two weeks. Rocky could be sentenced to 24 years in prison if convicted on all charges. The trial also comes before the 2025 Met Gala in May, where Rocky has been selected to serve as a co-chairman alongside Pharrell Williams, Sir Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo and LeBron James acting as the honorary co-chairman. Rihanna and ASAP Rocky attend the Fashion Awards in 2024 (Ian West/PA) The hip-hop star, fashion mogul and two-time Grammy nominee shares two children with pop star Rihanna. The couples first child, RZA, was born in May 2022, while their son Riot Rose was born in August 2023. Last month, the pair arrived at Londons Fashion Awards where Rocky received the cultural innovator award celebrating a leader who has created viral fashion moments which have had a profound impact on the fashion industry and wider culture over the last year. It came after Rocky brought his zeitgeisty style to the global stage at the Paris Fashion Week in June, debuting his AWGE runway collection American Sabotage. Rolling Loud, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, will also feature performances from Mexican star Peso Pluma and former Migos frontman, Quavo. I do not aim to breed fancy cattle for fatstock sales or shows how profitability is key for this Mayo breeder This part-time suckler farmer explains how he has built his 20-cow operation around functionality and efficiency Simmental genetics, earlier calving, earlier finishing and grassland management. Cathal Irwin with some of his Simmental and Simmental cross stock on his Mayo farm Catherina Cunnane Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 Cathal Irwin says that the day he stops striving to continually improve and develop his suckler farm is when I will stop farming. Food ingredients will return a great milk price, commodities are ten a penny Why this Kerry supplier voted yes Shaun McCarthy from the Dingle Peninsula explains how he is able to farm outside a Nitrates Derogation Shaun McCarthy on his dairy farm at Annascaul, Co Kerry. Photos: Domnick Walsh Niall Hurson Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 Shaun McCarthy, who milks 90 cows in Annascaul on the Dingle Peninsula, was one of the 82pc of co-op members who voted in favour of a proposal to acquire Kerry Dairy Ireland and a share exchange with Kerry Group Plc, a deal expected to deliver 1.4bn of value directly to members. Tralee, Co. Kerry, was blanketed in snow as winter weather hit much of the country, making daily life a challenge for locals. Photo: Walsh Photography Kerry Mountain Rescue along with local farmers and a builder came to the aid of four families in Kerry yesterday who were cut off without water or electricity since Saturday. The families, including young children, were in Glounthane, Cordal, the highest point in the Castleisland Municipal District, and had to be rescued after trees in the forested area had fallen on power lines. The local road was impassable and the local council was unable to get to the families. At the request of local councillor Charlie Farrelly, the Kerry Mountain Rescue and their fleet were called in by the council. Local farmers and building contractor Sean Kelly arrived with machines and dug paths to be able to get some of the family cars out. Meanwhile several homes in the Cordal/Ballydesmond Brosna and Knocknagoshel area have been without power and water now for four days. People are making the best of it and are trying to keep their spirits up, Mr Farrelly said. One woman in Glounthane told him how she collected and melted snow to get water and boiled it on gas. She has supplies in and told me she is okay and the melted snow water has put a shine in her hair!, said Farrelly who was shopping in Castleisland on Tuesday for a number of people who have no means of transport in the snow. The volunteer Kerry Mountain Rescue and their specialized mountain vehicle fleet have assisted a number of members of the public in difficulty over the past number of days in Kerry including transporting health workers to hospitals and to medical facilities. Tralee, Co. Kerry, was blanketed in snow as winter weather hit much of the country, making daily life a challenge for locals. Photo: Walsh Photography Today's News in 90 seconds - 7th January 2025 Ballybunion Sea & Cliff and rescue have also been assisting the public in north Kerry with shopping and traveling to cut off areas. By Tuesday they had delivered shopping and meals on wheels to more than 30 houses. Just send us a message here and well do our best to help locally, was the message by the rescue team on Facebook. Both the Kerry Mountain Rescue and the Civil Defence have also assisted the UHK in Tralee with discharging patients back to their homes. It comes as funerals are being delayed and requiem masses postponed by several days in rural Kerry because of the extreme cold spell as conditions continue to remain poor. In some cases families of the deceased have not been able to leave their houses and reposings have taken place in private because of snow and ice. Priests have also been affected and unable to travel. On Monday the requiem mass for a deceased of January 1 scheduled to take place in Kilflynn on Tuesday 7, could not take place because the parish priest got snowed in and was unable to travel. The mass is being rescheduled. Similar delays are taking place across Kerry with burials in particular postponed. Friday is expected to see a number of delayed funeral masses take place followed by burials. However other postponed funerals have yet to be confirmed. The Gleasure Funeral Homes in Tralee and Listowel are among those dealing with delays. Funeral Director Sean Gleasure said the delays are 100 per cent because of the weather. Funerals have already backed up in many parts of Kerry but this is not a problem once the remains are collected and prepared, he said. It is hoped to get funerals back to normal at the weekend, beginning on Friday. The GDT has continued to report positive price movements in recent auctions, indicating that the outlook for milk prices entering 2025 remains favourable. Photo: Stock image The short-term outlook for dairying is positive, a new analysis from Teagasc has forecasted. Trevor Donnellan and Emma Dillon in Teagascs Agricultural Economics and Farm Surveys Department suggest the dairy market situation will partially depend on factors which are difficult to anticipate. These factors include the impact of potential La Nina weather conditions in the Southern Pacific and geopolitical considerations, such as the potential imposition of US trade tariffs. Nevertheless, the short-term outlook is positive, given that dairy commodity prices have been moving to higher levels in recent months. On the demand side, continued weakness in Chinese dairy imports is anticipated, although it is thought stock levels are in decline. The average milk price in 2025 is forecast to improve by 5pc compared to 2024 On the supply side, milk production by the main dairy exporters should increase by about 0.3pc in 2025. The GDT has continued to report positive price movements in recent auctions, indicating that the outlook for milk prices entering 2025 remains favourable. For 2025, assuming more favourable production conditions, a slight further increase in EU milk production is possible, perhaps about 0.2pc. The researchers expect dairy profitability per hectare to increase by 35pc. Average net margin per hectare is estimated to be 1,578 for 2024 and is forecast to rise to 2,126 in the coming year. The average milk price in 2025 is forecast to improve by 5pc compared to 2024, and with a marginal reduction in production costs, this would mean that gross and net margins are forecast to increase in 2025. Net margin per litre is forecast to increase by 29pc in 2025 to an average of 17c/L. A 4pc increase in milk production is forecast for 2025, with a stable dairy cow population and a recovery in milk yields, contingent on normal weather conditions. According to the researchers, the Irish milk price improved to a greater extent than milk prices in much of the rest of the EU in 2024. From a position close to the bottom of the EU milk price league in 2023, Irish milk prices exceeded the EU average in 2024. The high price of butter has been the main driver of the recent increase in Irish milk prices. While the short-term outlook for butter prices remains positive, past experience suggests that very high prices can only be sustained for a limited period, therefore some weakening in butter prices later in 2025 may emerge. Paul Williams: 20 years on from Padraig Nally is Rural Ireland still being plagued by crime? When a 60-year-old farmer shot dead the career criminal who had broken into his isolated Mayo home, his trial put the spotlight on the criminal gangs that were terrorising the country. And a recent survey shows 55pc of farmers have been the victim of crime Padraig Nally at the Court of Criminal Appeal in Dublin, where he appealed his conviction and sentence of the manslaughter of John Ward. Photo: Garrett White / Collins Paul Williams Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 Two decades ago a quietly spoken, law-abiding citizen called Padraig Nally unexpectedly became a household name at the centre of a furious public debate over peoples rights to defend themselves in their own homes. Spanish police believe the father-of-two was shot dead not long after losing contact with his familyDNA testing will now take place to formally identify the 37-year-olds remains The family of missing Belfast man John George have said they are distressed but also relieved after a body was found in Spain. Spanish police sources said an arrest has also been made. The arrested man is believed to be a 32-year-old from Eastern Europe. Police sources said their investigation remains open and they havent ruled out further arrests. Although the only person arrested so far is understood to have been held on suspicion of homicide, the alleged perpetrator could have fled the area according to local reports. Police can hold the man they have in custody for up to 72 hours before handing him over to an investigating judge for further questioning. Relatives were contacted by Spanish police this afternoon saying they had located a body. The spot where the body was found was under trees on a private property in a rural area of Rojales near Torrevieja, around 45 minutes drive south of Alicante. A post-mortem is due to take place in the coming hours. While formal identification is still to take place, it is understood that clothing and tattoos led the Cuerpo de la Guardia Civil to believe it is Mr George, who has been missing since December 14. John George was reported missing in December However, DNA testing will now take place to formally identify the 37-year-old father-of-twos remains. Relatives are now preparing to bring his remains back to Northern Ireland for burial. KRW Law, which is acting for the family, said they hope their extremely tortuous search process is over. They said: We can confirm the father of Mr George contacted us today shortly after 5pm to confirm Spanish police told him they had recovered his sons remains. Mr Billy George was told that his sons body was now in a morgue awaiting formal identification. The family are both distressed but also relieved at this latest news. It brings to an end an extremely tortuous search process for the body. The family want to thank all who have helped and supported them over the last number of days. They now respectfully ask for some privacy to allow them both time and space to engage on the next harrowing stages on what is now a formalised murder investigation. Billy George The disappearance of Mr George has dominated news headlines for more than a fortnight. Before travelling he had told people someone he knew was opening a business in Spain and he was going for the grand opening. But he vanished after last speaking to his father on December 14. Despite being booked on a flight home on December 18, he never boarded the plane. His family launched an online appeal for information, saying it was very out of character for him not to phone home. Soon, they began to fear the worst. His parents, Billy and Sharon, and sisters, Courtney and Caitlin, flew to Spain where they scoured the Alicante region in search of John. The K9 Search and Rescue NI (K9SRNI), a volunteer search and rescue team that uses specialist sniffer dogs, also travelled to Spain to help but returned at the weekend. K9 Search and Rescue NI searching for John George in Spain The team surveyed an area the size of Tollymore Forest Park in over three days employing drones and search dogs to bolster the effort. The Sunday World reported that one of the suspects linked to Mr George's disappearance made a phone call to the victims family, claiming he had been shot and left somewhere between Torrevieja and Benidorm. They alleged a gun was used in the murder and taken away by one of the suspects, who said they would clean it. Several suspects have been investigated by Spanish police, including a man from the Czech Republic. All were living in Spain at the time of Mr Georges disappearance. The two main suspects were said to be blaming each other and refusing to state the location of Mr Georges body to either the family or Spanish authorities. The PSNI said previously it had been liaising closely with the missing mans family and other law enforcement agencies. Shortly before news of the body being discovered emerged, Mr Georges brother insisted he would not be leaving Spain until he finds him and would even give his own life for his siblings return. John and his brother Darren Darren George joined the hunt on December 23 and has been in Alicante ever since. Finding my brother will drive me until I take my last breath, Darren told the Belfast Telegraph earlier today, before the body find. I would give my own life up to find John. I would give my life up for my mum and dad to lay their son at rest. He added: Every day is a living nightmare. Youre out searching all day and come home with no body found. [Its like] everywhere you look its the same field, the same hill. Spanish police believe the father-of-two was shot dead not long after losing contact with his family. Interpol had become involved with the investigation, which Johns brother Darren hoped would escalate the case and find answers they were desperately hoping for. Darren had vowed not to leave Spain until the family located the body, despite the Spanish police urging them to put their efforts on hold. He said: Once we get Johns body we are out of Spain and well never return to Spain. John George Interview with member of rescue team in search of missing Belfast man John George Beijing (Gasgoo)- On January 7, 2025, the 2025 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2025) commenced, where ZEEKR, the premium new energy vehicle brand under Geely Holding, presented its latest strategies, technologies, and products. Photo credit: ZEEKR At the convention, ZEEKR announced a partnership with Qualcomm for intelligent cockpits, the launch of a NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor-based smart driving domain controller platform, the plans for overseas 800V ultra-fast charging infrastructure, and plans for mass delivery of the ZEEKR RT, the brand's first mass-produced native autonomous vehicle model. ZEEKR also showcased several key vehicle models at the CES 2025, including the ZEEKR MIX and ZEEKR 009 Grand MPVs, and the ZEEKR 001 FR all-electric shooting brake, highlighting its strengths in design, performance, and user experience. At the CES, ZEEKR announced its four major strategies for global market expansion, demonstrating its ambition to lead China's technology expansion on the global stage: Intelligent cockpit strategy ZEEKR is collaborating with Qualcomm to develop next-generation intelligent cockpits, offering immersive multi-sensory experiences. The Kr AI large model system, powered by Qualcomm's 8295 platform, supports OTA updates for continuous optimization. Additionally, ZEEKR launched the ZEEKR Navigation 2.0, a dedicated navigation service for overseas users. Thanks to a partnership with leading mapping service company Mapbox, ZEEKR is able to enhance navigation safety and convenience for global users. Smart driving strategy ZEEKR introduced its self-developed ADCU MAX, the world's first NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Thor-based platform mass produced by an OEM, said the company. The platform delivers high computational power, energy efficiency, and advanced interfaces. In addition, ZEEKR's SEA 2.0 smart driving system, which utilizes end-to-end Plus architecture and digital foresight networks for human-like intelligent driving in complex scenarios. Photo credit: ZEEKR Ultra-fast charging strategy Currently, ZEEKR holds three self-developed 800V high-voltage charging technologies, including full-stack 800V architecture, all components and circuit system meeting 800V demands, and a SiC four-electric motor 800V high-performance system. Meanwhile, the company launched an ultra-fast charging 800V battery, offering "5 minutes of charging for 2 hours of highway driving." Its third-generation 800V charging piles are capable of 800kW output. Photo credit: ZEEKR Additionally, ZEEKR rolled out its overseas 800V energy replenishment plan. With its 800V vehicle models gradually hitting the global markets, the 800V surper-fast charging piles will also be deployed accordingly. In 2025, the company aims to establish a network of 1,000 charging piles in markets like Thailand, Australia, and Brazil, with the support of local partners. The ZEEKR 7X luxury five-seat SUV, ZEEKR's first 800V model to be launched in overseas markets, is set for European and global release in early 2025. Smart architecture strategy ZEEKR unveiled its partnership with Alphabet-backed autonomous driving company Waymo to develop the ZEEKR RT, the world's first mass-produced native autonomous vehicle. The vehicle is scheduled for large-scale delivery in 2025. Built on ZEEKR's SEA-M architecture, which is dedicated to future mobility solutions, the ZEEKR RT offers superior safety, adaptability, and efficiency, redefining global mobility standards. Women are continuing to pay between 30 and 70 for their monthly supply of prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT), despite being told it would be free of charge from the beginning of this month. The Department of Health said yesterday the aim was to implement the free scheme as soon as possible, but no definite timeline was provided. Sources said it was hoped it would be in place before the end of this month, but this would depend on agreement being reached in talks with pharmacists on how it will operate. Doctors and pharmacists will then have to be issued with guidelines on how it will work and it could be next month before women will see the benefit. HRT products can cost between 30 to 70 a month, and 20m was allocated in the Budget to provide it free to women of all ages from early this month. However, it has faced a roadblock because the necessary talks with pharmacists and doctors were not finalised on time. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health reiterated yesterday that the goal is to introduce the measure as soon as possible. Under the scheme, the product will be free, but the patient will still face a dispensing fee of around 6. North Dublin pharmacist Edward MacManus said the situation was a complete mess. The Government announced free HRT without organising the details of the scheme, he said. There were already a number of medicine schemes with clear guidelines and instructions for doctors, pharmacists and patients, such as those covering long-term illness and contraception, he said. Details of the initial scheme and further changes are sent to doctors, pharmacists and advertised as appropriate to the public. Furthermore public servants are given clear guidance on administration of the particular scheme. None of this has happened for the free HRT scheme, he said. Mr McManus, who was an Aontu candidate in the general election, said: HRT was clearly an election promise. He added that pharmacists pointed out that there was currently a shortage of HRT products in the market and the Government had not made any effective impact on reducing this. He added that customers are frustrated, pharmacists are frustrated. This is upsetting for us as pharmacists, as our patients are not accessing the care that they were promised. HRT products not licensed in Ireland may have to be dispensed in cases where there is a shortage and these will not qualify for the free scheme. Before the election, outgoing Health Minister Stephen Donnelly welcomed the passage of legislation through the Dail providing for publicly funded HRT . He had introduced the legislation as part of the Health Insurance (Amendment) Bill and it passed all stages. We will ensure that where a woman has been prescribed HRT by her healthcare provider to alleviate the symptoms associated with all stages of menopause, the cost of those products will be met by the State, he said. Since I became minister for health in 2020, Ive prioritised progressing womens health, and Im proud to say that since 2020 this government has allocated 180m to targeted new developments in womens healthcare, he added. Met Eireann forecaster Joanna Donnelly has hit back at Fair City actor Rory Cowan after he questioned the need for weather warnings in recent days. With the country feeling sub-zero temperatures and some parts covered in snow, the weather has topped much of the news agenda since last week. Cowan, a former star of Mrs Browns Boys, criticised what he described as alarmist scaremongering from the media and forecasters. Mr Cowan posted on X: The national broadcaster and those in the know say theres a serious weather event in Ireland. They issued a warning about it over the last few days. What serious weather event? I havent seen much evidence of it so far. A new Status Orange weather warning has been issued for 22 counties today while more than 10,000 households and businesses are still without electricity and thousands still without water. Tomorrow will see 25 counties placed under Status Orange warning for low temperatures with the mercury expected to drop to -8C. 7-Day Weather Forecast: 7th January - 13th January Met Eireann meteorologist Joanna Donnelly responded sarcastically to Mr Cowan saying: Rory you should take a drive to Limerick, bring a care package to the vulnerable there trying to cope. Oh and DONT check your tread depth or tyre pressure before you set off. DONT steer in to a skid, just slam on your brakes really hard if you start to slidebe grand. He then retorted: Or I could just use my common sense and not buy into the alarmist scaremongering. Mr Cowan parted ways with Mrs Browns Boys creator Brendan OCarroll in 2017 and has since had a stint on Fair City as well as Dancing With The Stars. Ms Donnelly who has worked for Met Eireann for 24 years is currently performing on Dancing With The Stars which started last Sunday. Sinn Fein senator Paul Gavan has announced he will not be seeking re-election in the Seanad election. It comes after Sinn Fein defended a decision to leave Mr Gavan and another party candidate off a list of its Seanad hopefuls by saying it wanted to elect the strongest team possible. Mr Gavan and councillor Daithi Doolan were nominated for the Seanad Labour Panel through the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU). However, in a social media post announcing Sinn Feins candidates for the Seanad elections yesterday, former TD Chris Andrews and Laois-based representative Maria McCormack were listed and pictured as the partys only hopefuls for the Labour Panel. The Labour Panel elects 11 senators, at least four of whom must come from nominations through the Oireachtas and at least four through nominating bodies like ICTU. Asked about the omission of Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan, the Sinn Fein press office drew a distinction between candidates put forward by the party and those nominated through external bodies. It confirmed Mr Doolan and Mr Gavan had independently received nominations from ICTU, while Mr Andrews and Ms McCormack were nominated by the party. 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 Mr Gavan was included in the partys candidate announcement for the 2020 Seanad elections, despite being put forward under the same external nomination process on that occasion. Pressed on this discrepancy, a party spokesman told the PA news agency: Our aim is to elect the strongest Sinn Fein team possible. Hours later, Sinn Fein announced that Mr Gavan would not be actively seeking re-election despite the ICTU nomination. In a statement released by the party, he said: Having taken time over Christmas to consider matters, I do not believe there is anything to be gained by actively contesting for a seat on the Labour Panel. The party has nominated and endorsed two other candidates for this panel. Mr Doolan said yesterday that he would contest the election after successfully seeking a nomination from ICTU, having been an active member of Unite for more than 20 years. He said: I have a long track record of working with other union members and in the spirit of cross party co-operation on key issues, including Right to Water, support for Dublin Fire Brigade workers, and resolving the pension claims of local authority staff. I am confident this will attract support beyond Sinn Fein colleagues. A protest took place at Dublin City Hall last night against proposed bylaws that would ban on-street kitchen services. The plans have raised concerns among those who argue that such services are important for those in need. Cllr. Conor Reddy of People Before Profit, speaking to Irish Independent, warned that the ban could leave many people without food. Larger and larger numbers are dependent on on-street services. And if these bylaws are introduced, people will go hungry, people will go without food, he said. We have to trust the services that support them rather than putting more hurdles in their way, he added. Shagor Ahmed Shamim, founder of the Tasnuva Shamim Foundation Ireland, also attended the protest. Established in 2016 with support from Kinara Restaurant in Clontarf, a restaurant that helps provide special Biryani at the GPO. If you, just pass by every Friday, you can see how gathering and how big and, you know, the queue is, Mr Shamim said. There are a lot of people who are not only homeless, but a lot of people who are struggling, actually, who are living alone, who have no family. "So if they just suddenly stop us, it will be very difficult. If the Dublin City Council will organise a place for us then we can, you know, relocate. But if they just stop us its not good, he added. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: We used to think emotional distress caused an upset gut we now know its a two-way street The gut-brain axis is crucial to our overall health and well-being, and researchers are beginning to realise just how closely the two are interlinked The gut and brain are closely linked and profoundly affect our mental and physical health. Image: Getty Suzanne Harrington Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 Irritable Bowel Syndrome is common around one in eight of us will have symptoms at any given time, ranging from constipation to diarrhoea via bloating, pain and flatulence. It can be painful, socially isolating, and difficult. I do funerals for a third of the average price. Its no frills, but a lovely send-off the cremation director offering budget Irish funerals After working in London for 17 years, Dubliner Mickey Doyle (46) returned home to Ireland and founded a company that provides fixed-price cremation packages Mickey Doyle says lots of people just want something simple. Photo: Steve Humphreys Tanya Sweeney Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 I went to college in England, spent many years there and created a family. My wife and kids and I returned home to Dublin in 2017. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni starred in 'It Ends With Us', which Baldoni also directed. Photos: WireImage Bella Hadid attends the "L'Amour Ouf" (Beating Hearts) Red Carpet at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 23, 2024 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images) Modern tradition dictates that it is no longer acceptable to simply ring in the new year, one must also share a list of things that are set to be cool and that which will be confined to the dustbin of 2024. Here is the definitive guide to what is in and out for 2025. We think. WHATS IN Train etiquette: One of the hallmarks of civilised society is that you let others off the train before boarding. It is written into the constitution of locomotive travel. Yet weve noticed an increasing number of people muscling their way on to trains first. Some passengers also seem to think its acceptable to play music out loud or scroll TikTok. The people have had enough. This is the year of telling people to use headphones and saying, firmly but fairly, please let me off the train first. US President-elect Donald Trump. Photo: Getty Misandry: With Donald Trump set to move back into the White House in a matter of days, the next year is looking bleak for womens rights. Misandry (a dislike and contempt for men) is set to make a comeback. Appreciation of pigeons: Despite being intelligent, affectionate and actually very clean, pigeons have some of the worst PR around. But Gen Z are learning about the wonders of the pigeon and the essential role they played in the olden days, with some even starting to keep them as pets. Things are looking up for crows, too. Push-up bras: The unlined bralette has been a fixture of the lingerie world for the last few years, but it looks like the padded bra is back. Bella Hadid is often seen rocking the kind of cleavage only a great bra could achieve. Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter. Photo: Getty Being mainstream: Listening to pop music is cool (think Charli xcx, Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish) and everyone is obsessed with mainstream darlings like Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie. You no longer have to pretend to be into metal. Epicureanism: This is the Ancient Greek philosophy that simple pleasures are the key to a happy life: eating good food, being sociable, and living within your means. Crooked teeth: It seems like everyone and their dog has veneers. Giant, brilliant white rows of gnashers that look ridiculous half the time.This is bound to mean one thing: crooked teeth will be a badge of honour, a sign that you havent fallen into the trap of blind dental conformity. WHATS OUT Splitting the G: Please, never again. This, for the blissfully unaware, is a game where you try to glug the perfect amount of Guinness in your first sip so that the drink splits the G of the Guinness logo on the glass. Give it a rest. Saying Japan is on your travel list: It seems that every man on Hinge has decided that wanting to visit Tokyo is a character trait. Lets all just accept that wed all love to go there and stop talking about it. Fujiyoshida, Japan. Photo: Getty The need to give summer a label: Well admit it, brat summer was era-defining. But tomato girl summer, rat girl summer, strawberry girl summer? Not so much. Why cant we just have normal, prefix-less summers any more? Biopics: Spare me Timothee Chalamet crooning away on a guitar to Blowin In The Wind and his bizarre press tour looks for A Complete Unknown. Weve reached peak biopic saturation and none of them have been particularly good. Green powders: Part of being an influencer is flogging bright green powder that is full of things like spirulina and will make you spring out of bed in the morning and look radiantly beautiful. These expensive bags of green powder taste like a swamp thats full of sweetener. Just have a bag of spinach. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni starred in 'It Ends With Us', which Baldoni also directed. Photos: WireImage Crisis PR: Actor Justin Baldoni is in the doghouse for allegedly hiring crisis PR to smear Blake Lively after the pair fell out on the set of their film, It Ends With Us. The thing about crisis PR is that no-one is meant to know you are using it, otherwise it kind of spoils the whole effect. Carbon offsetting: Paying a few extra quid to plant a couple of trees does not mean you can fly to the Caribbean with a clear conscience. Investigations have shown carbon offsetting is broadly useless, and is a ploy from airlines and oil companies to make us feel better about ourselves. Talking about your attachment style: If you baulk when someone asks you to talk about your feelings, that means you are avoidant, apparently. People are no longer insecure, they are anxiously attached. Why must we categorise everything into different variants of therapy speak? It would take a heart of stone not to laugh at Nigel Farages new Elon Musk problem. The Reform leader has made his career out of operating the very same right-wing ratchet that the Tesla boss is now cranking to drag Farage into difficult territory. In case you missed it, the weekend saw Musk turn on his fellow Donald Trump admirer, declaring that Farage doesnt have what it takes and that Reform needs a new leader. This came hours after Farage had been on the BBC talking up his connections in Trumpworld and praising Musk as a hero. John Downing: Sixtieth anniversary of Sean Lemasss historic trip North shows how far we still have to go It took 40-plus years of independence for the first meeting between a taoiseach and his counterpart in Northern Ireland. The idea well be ready for a border poll in another five years is fanciful Terence O'Neill (left) and his wife Katharine during a meeting with Sean and Kathleen Lemass John Downing Tue 7 Jan 2025 at 03:30 It came as a bolt from the blue for everyone across Ireland and not least Ulster loyalists when in January 1965, taoiseach Sean Lemass headed for Belfast and a first-ever meeting with his counterpart in Northern Ireland, Terence O'Neill. In fact, it was the first such encounter since Irish independence four decades earlier. China steps up efforts to protect its traditional Shui script 15:12, January 07, 2025 By Chen Junyi ( People's Daily The Shui script is the unique traditional writing system used by the people of the Shui ethnic group in China to keep records of their astronomy, calendar, meteorology, folklore, and religion, just like ancient China's bronze and oracle bone inscriptions. It serves as an encyclopedia for the Shui people and is hailed as a "living fossil" of pictographic writing. Even today, this traditional writing system still plays an important role in the Shui people's social life. In 2006, it was listed as China's national intangible cultural heritage. Students practice Shui writing at a school in Rongjiang county, southwest China's Guizhou province. (People's Daily Online/Li Changhua) The Shui script has been passed down for thousands of years and is primarily preserved in handwritten manuscripts. Due to the limited number of characters, it is common for characters to have multiple pronunciations and meanings, which require specialized scholars to interpret these polyphonic and polysemic words based on the context. The scholars must be well-versed in Shui customs and uphold Shui moral principles to effectively preside over local customs activities and provide guidance for important events such as weddings and funerals. Yang Shengzhao is a 70-year-old Shui script scholar. He started studying Shui writing with the help of his elders when he was 14. Now, he has become a representative inheritor of China's provincial-level intangible cultural heritage. According to Yang, the customs associated with the Shui script consist of two parts. The first part is the handwritten copies that have been passed down through generations, which he refers to as the "hardware." The second part involves the contents such as essentials, rituals, and blessings that have been orally transmitted over time, which he calls the "software." "The second part represents a significant 70 percent of the Shui script customs," Yang said. The Duan Festival is the most important event of China's Shui ethnic group, much like the Spring Festival is for the Han Chinese. The celebration typically occurs from late August to early October of the Chinese lunar calendar, with the precise timing determined by the Shui calendar. The ancestral worship ceremony is an important ritual during the Duan Festival, during which a Shui script scholar often recites a passage to pray for blessings from ancestors. "This oral passage is not recorded in the handwritten copies of the Shui script, but it follows a predetermined procedure and rhythm and must not be improvised," Yang said. He believes that these orally transmitted contents are crucial in the customs of the Shui script, yet they are facing the risk of being lost. A teacher teaches the Shui script at a school in Rongjiang county, southwest China's Guizhou province. (People's Daily Online/Yang Chengli) After retiring from his position as a primary school teacher in 2015, Yang devoted himself wholeheartedly to the inheritance and preservation of the Shui script. He initiated Shui script courses at local schools, welcoming anyone interested in the Shui script to join. So far, the number of students has exceeded 100. "Studying the Shui script might not bring immediate economic benefits, but currently, there are few successors to carry on the tradition. Without creative ways of inheritance, it would soon vanish," said Yang. Yang also joins the protection and utilization programs initiated by the local government. In November 2022, "Shui Character Documents, Guizhou Province" was included in the UNESCO's Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific Regional Register, marking a historic achievement as the first of its kind for the province. During the application process, Yang recorded the oral contents of the Shui script and recited and translated its texts, contributing to the improvement of the application documents. Because there are few written texts and the Shui script does not directly align with the everyday spoken language of the Shui people, teaching Shui writing cannot follow the same methods used for teaching Chinese. "To save the Shui writing system, it requires a certain amount of financial support to annotate the script with international phonetic symbols, translate orally transmitted materials into Chinese, and record them into videos and audio," Yang noted. He believes that transforming the "software" of the Shui script into a tangible "hardware" is crucial for ensuring its continuity. Promoting the Shui writing system to the world is also an aspiration of the Shui people. In 2014, at the 63rd meeting of the International Organization for Standardization, the Chinese delegation submitted a proposal on the international coding of the Chinese Shui script. Over the years, a local expert group has been continuously improving the application documents. "If the application is approved, the Shui script will gain an 'identity card' globally, allowing the written manuscripts to be disseminated electronically across different parts of the world, thereby promoting our culture even further," said Yang. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Shanghai (Gasgoo)- INFLYNC, a Chinese startup focusing on design and manufacturing of tilt-rotating ducted-wing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, recently announced the completion of its angel+ funding round with tens of millions of yuan raised. Photo credit: INFLYNC The fresh round was led by Boyan Venture Capital, with participation from Shanghai Angel Group. The new funds, with InvesTarget serving as exclusive financial advisor, will be used to support the rollout and test flights of INFLYNC's first full-scale tilt ducted-wing eVTOL aircraft, accelerating its commercial application. In August 2024, INFLYNC completed its angel funding rounds, which raised for the company tens of millions of yuan. INFLYNC's core technical team comprises experts from leading organizations such as AVIC, COMAC, Alef Aeronautics, MagniX, and CATL, with extensive experience in civil aviation, new energy vehicles, and eVTOL technologies. INFLYNC has employed a rigorous development approach, combining modeling and simulation, wind tunnel testing, and flight trials to complete multiple design iterations. INFLYNC said it is the first company in China to achieve transition flight with a tilt-ducted wing eVTOL aircraft. INFLYNC recently unveiled its flagship product, the INFLYNC L600 Pioneer, an eVTOL aircraft designed for urban air mobility. The L600 Pioneer features a hybrid extended-range tilt-ducted wing design, offering a maximum range of 600 km, a top cruising speed of 360 km/h, and the capacity to carry one pilot and five passengers. Supporting multiple takeoff and landing cycles on a single charge, it is optimized for low-altitude urban travel, combining safety, performance, noise reduction, and adaptability for future technological upgrades. INFLYNC has secured over 500-unit pre-orders for the L600 Pioneer. The aircraft is positioned to serve short-haul transportation markets and helicopter operation cases in China and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. Elon Musk made divisive claims about UK prime minister Keir Starmer and one of his government ministers. Photo: Getty The influential American author William Burroughs suggested that sometimes, paranoia is just having all the facts. British prime minister Keir Starmer might well concur. The extraordinary onslaught unleashed upon him by Elon Musk the worlds wealthiest man and US president-elect Donald Trumps most fearsome attack dog would be enough to unnerve any leader. But Mr Starmer has refused to flinch. He defended both himself and government minister Jess Phillips against Mr Musks accusations that they were complicit in genocidal mass rapes. Mr Starmer was alarmed by the unwarranted interference in his countrys affairs as well as the deeply irresponsible nature of the remarks. Accusing Mr Musk of crossing a line, the prime minister said: Weve seen this play out many times whipping up intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it. The real worry about the incendiary language was that it was calculated and deliberate. The intention was to undermine the UKs Labour government. It is part of a sustained effort to boost extreme political actors in Europe. Furthermore, it adds to the deepening sense of foreboding ahead of Trumps return to the Oval Office. This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies In Paris, French president Emmanuel Macron accused the X owner of directly intervening in elections around the world. He 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? German chancellor Olaf Scholz, responding to attacks on himself as well as Mr Musks support of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, said: I find it much more worrying than such insults that Musk is supporting a party like the AfD. The chancellor described the party as right-wing extremist and said it wanted to weaken transatlantic relations. Jonas Gahr Store, the Norwegian prime minister, said he found it unsettling that Mr Musk was involving himself in the political issues of other countries. This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies, he added. Many were anxious as to how Mr Musk might wield his influence having spent more than $250m to help get Trump elected. The new Washington administration is reaching out to Europes right-wing elements. Last weekend saw a surprise visit to Florida by Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni. She was there to meet the US president-elect before his inauguration later this month. Trump has also met Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban, as well as Argentinas president, Javier Milei. A new, unashamed agenda of America First might be expected to aggressively pursue US interests and policies. But seeking to alienate long-time allies can only be mutually destructive. New national legislation will see most L-roads drop from 80kmh to 60kmh Drivers on local roads in Cork County roads with the L-designation will be required to observe a lower speed limit from Friday, February 7 following the enactment of the Road Traffic Act in April 2024. An attempt to defer a decision on the implementation of national legislation to reduce the default speed limit from 80km per hour to 60kmph was denied at a recent Full Council meeting. Independent Ireland councillor Danny Collins called for the decision to adapt the new recommendations to be deferred. I couldnt download it on QuickMinutes. Other councillors had the same problem. Could we defer this to the next meeting so we could study it? Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll however disagreed with the suggestion to defer the new recommendations. He said the proposals had already gone to MD meetings and to Development Committee and the bye-laws were adapted. Divisional Manager Niall Healy said the effective date for the local roads speed limits changing is February 7. Mr Healy also informed the councillors that a number of roads in Cork County with a wider carriage than 5.5m and meeting other criteria, including meeting engineering restraints in terms of vertical and horizontal alignment wont have their speed limits reduced from 80kmph. Mr Healy told the councillors that the Road Traffic Act 2024 was enacted in April 2024. This primary legislation introduces statutory changes which roads authorities are mandated to implement. These changes are being introduced nationally on a phased basis, commencing with rural local roads where a change in the default speed limit on such roads will reduce from 80 km/hr to 60 km/hr. A period of public consultation was carried out in August 2024, said Mr Healy who recommended the approval of the bye-laws. Members of the public were facilitated to submit objections to the draft bye-laws, which contained a schedule of the section of local roads proposed to be retained at 80 km/hr. The outcome of the public consultation phase was presented to elected members. Special speed limit bye-laws have been drafted to allow these road sections to remain at 80 km/hr post the implementation date of the 60km/hr default on February 7 2025. Mr Healy continued: The changes to the rural local roads speed limits will take effect on February 7, 2025. These are L roads that are currently at 80 km/hr. The speed limit by default will reduce to 60 km/hr with the exception of the 30 locations that we are suggesting. Those 30 locations have been examined from a technical perspective. There are minimum criteria that must be fulfilled. Each road must be a minimum of 5.5 metres in width. There are engineering constraints in terms of vertical and horizontal alignment that need to be met. Those 30 locations meet all the required standards. Another thing that needs to be considered is the number of junctions and access points on and off those roads. 17 of the 30 locations are situated within the Kanturk-Mallow Municipal District. There are no L roads that meet the criteria in West Cork, he added. Fianna Fail councillor Deirdre OBrien welcomed any initiatives that would help to reduce speed on roads and especially on local roads. Cllr OBrien however called for road signs to be cleaned and for paint to be applied to markings on roads. Mr Healy said all the costs will be covered by the Department of Transport. There are polls and signs to be installed. The majority of it will be done by our own staff. We will be using contractors in some locations. During the second half of January we will be installing the signs themselves, but temporarily covering them in plastic. On February 7 those temporary covers will be removed. The regional roads will be unaffected. They are not impacted by the Road Traffic Act. The focus of this exercise is road safety. Our focus is on our statutory obligation. We will do some promotion at a local level in relation to the exemptions, he added. Approval of the Cork Road Traffic Special Speed Limit bye-laws was proposed by Fianna Fail Cllr Gearoid Murphy and seconded by his party colleague, Cllr Gillian Coughlan. Met Eireann has issued a status orange low temperature/ice warning for tonight, with another to follow tomorrow Snow across the country as cold weather warning extended to Thursday Cork County Council is advising people to avoid any unnecessary journeys due to widespread ice and dangerous road conditions across the county. The Councils salters and ploughs were operating throughout the night. However, there are reports of hazardous conditions on roads that were recently treated. National primary and national secondary routes in Cork are passable with extreme care this morning. However, motorists are being warned not to assume a road is safe even it is has been recently treated. The majority of priority 3 routes remain untreated and are in very poor condition. There are particularly dangerous conditions on the following routes: There is an Artic lorry stuck on R585 at Cousane, the road is now closed There are reports of ice on the N71 between Ballydehob and Bantry on elevated sections of road The R576 from Newmarket to Rockchapel and Newmarket to Boherbue The R579 from Banteer to Nadd remains closed however crews are working to reopen this route The R576 from Newmarket to Rockchapel The R619 from Bweeng to Donoughmore The R515 Charleville to Milford via Newtownshandrum The R578 Newtownshandrum to Newmarket via Dromina, Bog Cross and Freemount The R578 Newmarket to Ballydesmond, Newmarket to Boherbue The R577 between Ballydesmond and Boherbue. The councils Crisis Management Team met this morning to assess the situation as Status Yellow Snow-Ice and Low Temperature warnings remain in place for the county. Met Eireann has also a series of Status Orange Low Temperature/Ice warnings for Cork from 8pm tonight until 10am tomorrow morning and from 6pm tomorrow (January 8) until 11am on Thursday morning. The potential impacts include dangerous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot, travel disruption and delays and animal welfare issues. If your journey is essential, please slow down, drive with caution, and be aware of other road users. Allow extra time for your journey. If a road has been treated by a gritter or snowplough, do not assume that the road is safe to travel. There may still be underlying snow or ice which would make the road hazardous. Cork County Councils Emergency Line remains open on 021 4800048 to report any issues. The Council is continuing to liaise with the HSE and other agencies throughout the severe weather which is expected to last until the early hours of Friday, January 10th. Mallow, Fermoy and Dunmanway Swimming Pools will open from 10am until 5pm today. The Councils Mobile Library service will be suspended for the day and will therefore not be operating. Mallow Civic Amenity Site will also remain closed today. Cork County Council will continue to provide updates on www.corkcoco.ie and across the Councils social media channels @Corkcoco. Comedian Aidan Greene is hoping to bring the movie, Stutterbug, to the big screen A Dublin-based comedian is hoping to raise awareness around speech impediments by bringing a movie about stammering to the big screen. Aidan Greene has launched a fundraiser to produce Stutterbug, a short film that showcases authentic stuttering on screen. This project is not only written by a person who stammers, but also stars two actors who stammer, including internationally acclaimed rapper and actor, Scroobius Pip. The film follows a character, named Aidan, through a chaotic day in his life. Aidan is a man with a stutter who just wants one thing: coffee, Mr Greene said. But as his day unfolds, his attempts to hide his stutter cause him to accidentally tell a charity worker to f**k off, ruin his chances with his college crush, and, worst of all, order a mocha instead of an americano. Aidan is all of us. He is ashamed of who he is, and he goes to extreme lengths to hide it, and hilarity ensues at his expense. Growing up, I never saw a portrayal of stuttering that reflected my reality. Too often, characters who stutter are punchlines, villains or inspirational figures overcoming their flaws. This is my chance to change that. Stutterbug tells an authentic story of stuttering, not as inspiration porn or a joke, but as part of a real, three-dimensional character. Having reached the finals of the Virgin Media Discovers Film Fund and the Shore Scripts Short Film Fund, Stutterbug is now seeking the publics support to move into full production. Mr Greene, originally from Cavan, joined the comedy scene in 2010 and is a regular headliner in comedy clubs across the country. Last year, he returned to the Edinburgh Fringe for another sold-out run with his show, I Know What You Did Last Stammer, and later performed the show at the Dublin Fringe festival. Now, hes looking to bring Stutterbug to the movie theatres. The story explores universal themes of shame and self-acceptance while centring on the often overlooked and misrepresented experiences of people who stutter, Mr Greene said. Stuttering representation in media has long been problematic, often reduced to caricatures or stereotypes. Stutterbug aims to change this by telling an authentic story written and performed by individuals with lived experience. This film marks a significant moment in representation, featuring both the writer and lead actors as people who stammer. Scroobius Pips involvement further elevates the project. As a well-known advocate for stuttering awareness and an established actor (House of the Dragon; The Acolyte; Venom: Let There Be Carnage), his role underscores the commitment to authentic representation. To make Stutterbug a reality, we are seeking support to cover production costs. Contributions will directly fund industry-standard wages for cast and crew, location and production design fees, professional equipment and post-production editing, and a soundtrack to bring the story to life Stutterbug isnt just a film, its a chance to reshape how stuttering is portrayed in media, he added. You can find out more about the project here. Jessica Guerin, a Beaufort native living in London, served as Associate Producer and Production Manager on the film 'Clodagh'. Talented Kerry producers Jessica Guerin and Siobhan Linehan, along with local actor Tom Lawlor, were left gobsmacked after the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that their film Clodagh had been shortlisted in the Best Live Action Short Film for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. And they again celebrating with their inclusion on the prestigious Bafta list. Jessica Guerin, a Beaufort native living in London, served as Associate Producer and Production Manager, while Siobhan Linehan of Dan Linehan's, College Street, Killarney, kept operations running smoothly as Production Assistant. In front of the camera Tom Lawlor, a North Kerry man, played a priest. Tom is a well respected actor in his own right and father of Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, famously known for his portrayal of Nidge in Love/Hate. Clodagh, tells the heart-warming story of Mrs Kelly, a lonely priests housekeeper whose discovery of Clodagh, a young Irish dancer, promotes a moral and spiritual dilemma. The 16-minute film is brought vividly to life by the performances of Brid Ni Neachtain (The Banshees of Inisherin) and Katelyn Rose Downey (The Nun), a two-time world champion Irish dancer. Shot on location in Cork and Waterford and filmed on 35mm Kodak film, a rarity in todays digital landscape, Clodagh boasts a talented cast and crew, with contributions from Ireland, UK and America. Clodagh, produced by Afternoon Pictures, has captivated audiences worldwide and its festival journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Clodagh has received official selections from renowned festivals, including Tribeca in New York, Short Shorts & Asia in Japan, HollyShorts in Los Angeles, Aesthetica in the UK, Flickerfest in Australia, and many more. It has also claimed significant awards such as the Spalding & Jackson Award at the Cleveland Film Festival, Best Live Action Short at the Belfast Film Festival, Grand Prix Best Irish Short at the Cork Film Festival, and dual awards Kodak Best Shot on Film and Best Drama at HollyShorts London, the only film to achieve this feat. After its phenomenal festival run in 2024, the Oscar eligibility buzz for Clodagh in the 97th Academy Awards soon followed. Jessica said she still can't believe it is all happening. "There was talk in early December about Clodagh being predicted for an Academy shortlist but you never really think that it might be real! Being included in the official Oscar shortlist has blown us away. It's surreal but well deserved at the same time. A testament to the talent, vision and hard work of Mike, Portia and their cast and crew. We must wait for official nominations to be announced but it's beyond exciting to imagine we could be waving the Irish flag in LA next March. "Its incredible to see a project with such deep Irish roots resonate on the global stage. Being part of a team that celebrates the artistry and heritage of Ireland has been an absolute privilege." Afternoon Pictures, the independent production company behind the film, was founded in 2015 by Irish/British writer and director Portia A. Buckley and British screenwriter Michael Lindley. Together, they share a passion for creating authentic, original stories rooted in contemporary real life Britain and Ireland. New Fianna Fail Deputy Michael Cahill is calling for the roll out of medical services in the county similar to the Manor Medical Centre in Tralee. Deputy Cahill said reports from constituents in Tralee stated that Manor Medical Centre has low waiting times, excellent health outcomes, and good accessibility. Deputy Cahill now wants a similar model put in place for the rest of the county. He believes that duplicating this medical service in other towns would benefit patients and decrease pressure in certain sectors of the health system. I have received reports of patients receiving excellent health care in a time efficient manner at the Manor Medical Centre over Christmas and New Year, he said. Deputy Cahill stated this service took place at a time when not all medical practices are open and visits to Accident & Emergency could take up to 48 hours, or longer. He stressed that if this medical model is working well, there should be no reason why centres in Listowel, Kenmare, Cahersiveen, Dingle and Killarney could not be established. "We are all aware that the rise in respiratory illnesses has put huge additional pressures on the emergency departments at University Hospital Kerry, he said. I am aware of a number of cases whereby individuals living half an hour from Tralee went to Manor Medical Centre, were seen by a doctor, received their prescription, went to a pharmacy and got their prescription and were back home within an hour and a half from the time they left the family home" said Deputy Cahill. Best practice models should be duplicated where possible in order to deliver the best possible outcomes for our sick and vulnerable. Your health is your wealth, he added. Deputy Cahill said once the Dail resumes later this month, he will be prioritising University Hospital Kerry, a Minor Injuries Clinic for Killarney, a Primary Care Centre for both Cahersiveen and Killarney, including other issues. Sarah Louise Gordon (Company Secretary) and Eoin OBoyle (Managing Director) celebrate as Comet Contracts Ltd. are honoured as the Business All-Star Thought Leader in Business & Technology Leadership 2024-25 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation. Sligo-based plant hire and personnel contractor, Comet Contracts, has been named Business All-Star Plant Hire & Personnel Contractor of the Year 2024 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF). Comet Contracts specialises in the hire of high-quality machinery, including telehandlers, tractors, trailers, and dust suppression bowsers, for short- and long-term hire. The Ballinfull based company serves a variety of sectors, providing equipment with or without operators to meet the specific needs of each project from individual machine rentals to custom solutions. This Business All-Star recognition highlights Comet Contracts leadership in the Irish plant hire industry, underpinned by its commitment to providing a modern and diverse fleet of machinery. Reacting to the news of his companys achievement, Managing Director, Eoin OBoyle said:We are excited to be honoured as the Business All-Star Plant Hire and Personnel Contractor of the Year 2024. This accolade reaffirms our commitment to delivering a high quality service and offers a promising outlook for our future success. It is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of our team, which has been instrumental in the continued growth of Comet Contracts and the developing long lasting relationships with our clients. Deputy Chair of AIBFs Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, said: I am delighted to recognise Comet Contracts Ltds exceptional performance during its audit for Business All-Star Accreditation. The results of the audit have led to the company being proudly honoured with the prestigious Business All-Star Plant Hire & Personnel Contractor Of The Year 2024 Accreditation. This distinguished recognition highlights the companys commendable conduct in the areas of trust, commitment, performance, and customer centricity. By achieving this accreditation comet contracts has secured its place in the esteemed AIBF Register of Irish Business Excellence. Managing Director of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, Kapil Khanna, said: Eoin and his team at Comet are a perfect example of Business All-Star core values of trust and customer-centricity and we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on their success story. The accreditation, which is now held by over 700 firms, is needed by the thousands of small and medium businesses which operate to their own standards but have nothing to measure them by. Khanna added, 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. Business All-Star Accreditation Is The Nations Symbol Of Trust. Currently, there are over 700 companies that are accredited by AIBF. Since 2014, over 5000 companies have participated in its programmes. Read more Sligo sports injury consultant backs scheme aimed at helping emigrants return home to work Sligo secondary school gets free access to learning website thanks to generosity of local engineering firm One of the regions most committed and well-known tourism professionals has this week retired from her role. Martina Kerr Bromley has worked for Failte Ireland as Head of Enterprise Development and previously as the Sligo-based CEO of North West Tourism for over 20 years. Of her work Martina said: Its been an absolute privilege to work for Irish tourism and particularly having the opportunity to promote Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal and the North West. My career in tourism has given me so many wonderful opportunities and experiences, I have met so many interesting and committed Sligo tourism businesses at home and abroad promoting best in class experiences that can compete on any international stage and have had the opportunity to meet so many supporters of Ireland, particularly the Irish American community in Boston and New York. Earlier roles while only in her 20s saw the Bundoran native travel extensively across the UK, US, Canada and the Caribbean in her role as business development manager for Belleek Pottery and Tyrone Crystal, while living in New York and Boston. Media slots on QVC TV, radio stations, the Adrian Flannelly show New York, WBZ in Boston were all a testament to the energy and professionalism Martina gave to every role she worked in. Among the many people Martina met through her work some stood out, such as former US President Bill Clinton. Of time she and her husband Pauric spent in the States, Martina says: Our life in the States was just a great experience from beginning to end and we remain very grateful for the opportunities we got there. But Martina said that returning home to Ireland in the late 1990s to open a business was wonderful. After 10 years it was great to be back home and have quality time with friends and family, she said. But the travelling and marketing roles and hard work continued while working as business development manager with the McEniff Hotel group. She secured a role with North West Tourism, rising up through the ranks to take on the regional CEO role based in Sligo. During this time she delivered a number of successful cross border programmes, was a driver in promoting Sligos link with WB Yeats and supporting events as a key attraction for the region. She also worked on developing new walking trails in with Sligo County Council and on a wider level contributed to the development and launch of the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as spearheading the very successful Gathering events across the region. Martina was subsequently appointed Head of International Sales at Failte Ireland before becoming Head of Enterprise Development holding that role for over 10 years and felt it had the biggest impact. She was able to help and support tourism businesses through good times and bad including the banking crisis, Brexit, the pandemic and recently escalating operational costs. The operational programmes and financial measures and support that were on offer to all tourism businesses were an enormous benefit to struggling businesses and these measures and supports were designed, created and implemented by Martina and her team in Enterprise Development. Of her retirement, Martina says she feels blessed to have had the many wonderful opportunities provided over the last 40 years but it is now looking forward to some sea swimming, travelling, a little music choir and spending time with her husband Pauric and two daughters Aoife and Tara and grandson Fionn. The formation of a new coalition government between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and a collection of Regional Independents must be robust enough to cope with any challenges brought with the onset of a new Donald Trump-led administration in the US and the prospect of escalating trade wars globally. Thats the view of Enterprise Minister and Longford-Westmeath TD Peter Burke as negotiations on a draft programme for government resumed on Monday. Follow Independent Westmeath on Facebook Mr Burke, who topped the five seat constituencys poll almost five weeks ago, said there was no denying the importance of ensuring stability over expediency took precedence ahead of the Dails expected resumption on January 22. There are very strong challenges coming because of the uncertainty of the political landscape and the Programme for Government is a detailed document in that it has to capture five years of work," he said. That does take time and what is in the Programme for Government generally does get delivered and that is why it is so important. Whatever about internal pressures which are likely to once again be dominated by tackling an ever mounting housing crisis, it is forces externally which are likely to focus the minds of senior negotiating figures within both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael over the coming days. At the top of that outlook are the uncertainties and potential knock-on effects policy decisions brought about by US President-elect Donald Trump might have on a public purse that exceeded the 20bn surplus barrier by the end of last year. Incoming US president Donald Trump. Photo: Reuters That cushion could prove critical should the 78-year-old follow through on a promise to lower the US corporate tax rate from 21pc to that of Irelands current 15pc levy. Its a possibility that would invariably throw the spotlight on what US tech giants such as Apple, Google and Facebook parent company Meta might do, all of whom have set up European headquarters in Dublin on the back of such favourable tax rates. Equally, trade challenges at European level, headed by the fallout from the contentious EU-Mercosur agreement, are further headaches that are likely to come the new governments way in 2025. Mr Burke has spoken publicly as recently as last month over a need to broker a more informed understanding of a deal aimed at eliminating import taxes and creating a 700-million-customer free-trade area between Europe and the Mercosur bloc which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Farming groups, led by the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) remain firmly opposed to the deal, dubbing it a sell-out ahead of an expected visit by EU Commission officials to Irish shores over the coming weeks to discuss the deals with key stakeholders. Mr Burke said it was imperative the make-up of the next government was able to weather all possible economic complexities over the course of its anticipated five year term. We all know and history has shown the best work gets done at the start of government, he said. Thats the reality of it, but with a new Trump administration coming in and with so many trade tensions around the globe from China and US, Europe is a key piece of that jigsaw in the middle and whats needed is a solid government that can withstand those shocks. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 5, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group ("Geely Holding") held a session in Harbin to analyze its "Taizhou Declaration" ("Taizhou" is a city in China's Zhejiang province) and announced its strategic goals for the next three years. By 2027, Geely Holding aims to achieve over 5 million vehicles of annual sales, positioning itself as a leader in electrification, smart transformation, and high-quality development, while building a differentiated, green, and intelligent mobility ecosystem. Photo credit: Geely Holding In 2024, as the automotive industry continues to evolve with intensifying competition, Geely Holding expects to achieve total annual sales of approximately 3.32 million vehicles, marking a 21% year-on-year jump. Of these, new energy vehicle (NEV) sales are projected to exceed 1.48 million units, representing a 52% year-on-year surge, and accounting for around 45% of the group's total. Facing new global economic dynamics and competitive industry landscapes, Geely Holding introduced the "Taizhou Declaration" in September 2024, which outlines five strategic pillars: strategic focus, integration, synergy, stability, and talent development. These efforts aim to reinforce the group's core automotive business, expand its technology ecosystem, and drive its mission of "Making the World Full of Geely." As part of its commitment to the declaration, Geely Holding unveiled its 2030 vision to lead the green and intelligent mobility ecosystem. The group is dedicated to offering innovative green smart technologies, delivering products capable of running on multiple energy sources, and promoting intelligent, inclusive, and sustainable mobility solutions. The strategy also emphasizes a low-carbon, interconnected transportation ecosystem integrating passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as terrestrial and aerial systems. Photo credit: Geely Holding To support its 2030 vision, Geely Holding introduced its "1-3-3" strategic roadmap. This includes one overarching framework (the "Taizhou Declaration"), three transformative directions (organizational and cultural, competitiveness, and governance transformations), and three core business segments (complete vehicles, key components, and ecosystem services). Daniel Li Donghui, CEO of Geely Holding, emphasized the group's dual focus on passenger and commercial vehicles, with an interconnected approach to both. He highlighted the shift from product manufacturing competitiveness to ecosystem service competitiveness, from cost advantages to green smart technology leadership, and from independent brand operations to global synergy. In 2024, Geely Holding's passenger vehicle segment achieved a record-breaking 2.17 million units in annual sales, a 32% year-on-year jump, with NEV penetration exceeding 50% for five consecutive months and annual NEV sales reaching 880,000 units, up 92% year-on-year. The segment has built a diversified product ecosystem encompassing four key brands: Geely, Geely Galaxy, Lynk & Co, and ZEEKR. To achieve its three-year growth target, Geely Holding's passenger vehicle segment will establish a structure with two main business entities: Geely Auto Group and ZEEKR Technology Group. Geely Auto Group will integrate Geely, Geely Galaxy, RADAR, and LEVC brands, focusing on the mainstream market and accelerating its NEV transition. ZEEKR Technology Group will integrate Lynk & Co and ZEEKR brands to form a globally leading premium NEV entity. C.A.I.R.D.E Conor Coffee Morning Fundraiser in the IFA center Saturday morn.Siona Mooney,Helen Martin and Richaed Quinsey. C.A.I.R.D.E Conor Coffee Morning Fundraiser in the IFA center Saturday morn.Geraldine and Dan Carthy. C.A.I.R.D.E Conor Coffee Morning Fundraiser in the IFA center Saturday morn.Caoimhe Mahon and Caoimhe Quinsey in charge of the raffle. C.A.I.R.D.E Conor Coffee Morning Fundraiser in the IFA center Saturday morn.Tracey Jennings,Pat O Connor and Marion Jennings The IFA centre in Enniscorthy was the chosen venue for a successful coffee morning in aid of Conor Martin, whose family and friends are currently hard at work raising money to support his journey back to independent living. The event was held on Saturday, December 21 where loved ones and supporters joined together for a chat over a selection of refreshments. Earlier this year in February, Conor suffered a life changing and devastating spinal cord injury in a horse riding accident. After undergoing surgery, Conor spent seven weeks in The Spinal Unit at the Mater Hospital. He is currently continuing his rehabilitation journey at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Dublin, striving to return home to independent living in Screen, Co. Wexford. Conors immediate and medium-term requirements include specialised transport and extensive equipment for independent living and ongoing medical treatment including Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy. His supporters have rallied around him following the incident by organising various fundraisers including races, runs, concerts, and coffee mornings. As such, they have raised over 234,000 so far, bringing them closer to their overall target of raising 250,000. Baby Lochlan Nolan from Enniscorthy was born on New Year's Day. Pic: Jim Campbell There was twice the amount of joy and excitement in the maternity ward of Wexford General Hospital on New Years Day as they welcomed the first two babies of 2025 for the county. Jennifer and Keith OHara from Bunclody were overjoyed to welcome little Finn OHara at 5.59 a.m., weighing eight pounds and three ounces. Smiling father Keith said there was a great atmosphere surrounding the birth. "The original due date was January 9 so he came early. It was a great way to start the year, he said. He also said that all the staff and crew of midwives were all extremely helpful, but gave a special mention to Bernie who helped deliver their son. Baby Lochlan Nolan from Enniscorthy was born on New Year's Day. Pic: Jim Campbell Meanwhile, Davicka Walsh and John Nolan from Enniscorthy were equally over the moon to welcome Lochlan Nolan into the world at 6.02 p.m., weighing eight pounds on the dot. However, unlike baby Finn, baby Lochlan was six days over-due as the original due-date was set for Friday, December 27. In keeping with their tradition in giving their children Irish names, Davicka explained that they gave him the name Lochlan which translates to land of the lakes. Baby Lochlan was excitedly welcomed by his older brother Ruadhan, whose name means red-haired. "A great start to 2025 for our family, she said. Over 17,000 has been raised for a residential treatment programme following two walks in memory of Kyle Askins Family, Friends and supporters braving the weather at the Run/Walk in Memory of Kyle in aid of Tiglin at Croghan. PIC:Sabrina Ffrench Family, friends and supporters braving the weather at the run/walk in memory of Kyle in aid of Tiglin at Croghan. PIC: Sabrina Ffrench Over 17,000 has been raised for Tiglin, a residential treatment programme that provides a comprehensive and holistic service for men and women, between the two walks theyve done on new years eve in 2023 and 2024. Its absolutely brilliant from two walks. Its for the rehab centre that Kyle went to. Tiglin is a non-funded charity so any money we can raise, I just think its fabulous for them. Its the community coming together for respect and support. People come out for the walk because we have good relationships with friends and family and they support you in your grief, said Shelley Atkins. Tiglin which is located outside Ashford, Wicklow is where Shelleys nephew Kyle Askins from Carnew, Wicklow spent many months recovering from his long battle with addiction and mental illness before his passing on December 5, 2023, at 30 years old. Many of the service users and staff members from Tiglin travelled to Croghan for the walk and had only good things to say about Kyle. Every one of them had nothing but good things to say. One of the managers said, he was just a legend and is very very loved up in Tiglin and has a real legacy up there that people talk about him all the time in the centre, said Shelley. Tiglin has also erected a memorial plaque where Kyle was living in Greystones. During the most recent walk up Croghan, Shelley spoke to the group raising awareness about mental health and getting help. "The amount of people who have said to me, oh my God youre so proud of your nephew regardless of what he went through. I say to them, my nephew wasnt out knocking down grannys and beating them up to do drugs, it wasnt like that at all. He was self-medicating to get through his dark days with his mental health. "So I say to people all the time, Im just really proud of him, he showed us a strength that none of us would ever understand because weve never been through it, said Shelley. Tiglin provide aftercare services and support people to access training and employment and re-engage in society. Today, their facilities include accommodation for up to 25 men and a specific womens centre in Brittas Bay which provides accommodation for 10 with the programmes facilities on site. Every couple of months, Shelley collects hats and blankets which she donates to the service. Theyre always looking for donations. In Dublin, they feed over 400 people sometimes in one evening. I think its amazing but its bittersweet because we shouldnt have 400 people with nowhere to go relying on a hot meal from a homeless shelter, said Shelley. The crucial importance of speaking out about mental health and addiction became even more evident to Shelley after Kyles funeral in 2023 when she was approached by someone experiencing similar challenges. Since then, Shelley says at least five more people have come to her seeking help. "Ive spoken to Tiglin about doing some sort of link system. I think every county in Ireland should be able to have a link system to a rehab. Society and the general public need to really open their eyes now to this problem and stop burying their head and pretending this will go away if we dont talk about it, said Shelley. Speaking to anyone whos currently struggling with mental health challenges and addiction, Shelley said, go to anybody and ask for help. Youd be surprised whod support you. Phone Tiglin if they dont want to speak to a family member because theyll guide them and tell them what to do. Youd be surprised by how many people are suffering so just ask for help, dont be scared, break the mould, said Shelley. Wexford town has placed 22nd out of 40 Irish towns and cities surveyed by the IBAL Anti-Litter League. Although considered clean to European norms the presence of a litter blackspot and a heavily littered site prevented Wexford from achieving the highest ranking possible. In its report, IBAL (Irish Business Against Litter) cited the Bring Facility at Tesco Extra and the Ropewalk Car Park at the back of Colman Doyles as problematic areas. Grading the Bring Facility (D+), it said all was fine with the bottle and can units. It was solely the numerous clothing bin units which brought down the litter grade. As well as several bags of dumped clothing between the units, there were large volumes of clothing hanging out of each of the units, along with items stuffed between and on top. The Ropewalk Car Park received a C+ and was described as old, tired, and poorly presented, with significant levels of graffiti on the former car park attendant office. There was persistent litter, mostly food and alcohol related, around the perimeter of the car park, along with dog fouling. In its report, IBAL stated that both these sites had previously been highlighted with no obvious improvements made in the interim. However, several areas throughout the town received A grades from judges with Selskar Street highly praised for its exceptional cleanliness and described as a credit to those not dropping their litter and those responsible for the cleaning of same. The Riverwalk along The Quay also received an A grade with IBAL praising its cleanliness and the excellent condition of seating, life-belts, visitor information notices, bicycle parking, drinking water and fountain. The area was enhanced by art mosaics at each end. The former tourist office has recently opened as an art space, (and is) a lovely addition to the area, added judges. The approach into town from the New Ross roundabout was also praised with judges noting a virtual absence of litter throughout and a positive and welcoming impression in a part of Wexford which has recently undergone extensive road works. Similarly, the approach from the Pembrooke Hill Roundabout was considered an asset to the town with no obvious litter issues throughout and recent grass cutting on the left hand side (giving) a general impression of maintenance. Again, the approach from Rosslare was commended with judges noting the attractive planted, landscaped area on the left hand side as you come into Wexford town. IBAL litter survey results released on January 6, 2025. The only other area which didnt receive an A grade was Wexford Retail Park (B) with judges saying that the overall impression at this retail park was a somewhat littered one, with litter more pronounced on the grass / base of the trees on the left side as one goes further into the development. The whole area felt like it lacked a thorough cleaning in quite some time and was well on its way to seriously littered status. "Road surface was poor, heavily pot-holed. There didnt appear to be obvious retail park signage at the entrance - it was only by looking up individual store names did it become apparent what it is called. No bins at store entrances or seemingly throughout the retail park Of the 40 towns and cities surveyed Naas placed highest, followed by Kilkenny, Monaghan, and Killarney. In total, 12 sites achieved the cleaner than European norms with Wexford in the second category clean to European norms alongside 12 other areas, among them Ennis, Mullingar, Dundalk, and Athlone. Tralee, Carlow, and Cork city centre were considered moderately littered while Galway inner city, Dublin city centre, and Limerick city (south) were described as littered. Dublins north inner city was the only area surveyed to be described as seriously littered. In all, 60 per cent 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. The survey also revealed a near 50 per cent fall in the prevalence of plastic bottles and cans in the 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. However, it is clear from our survey that people continue to discard a wide range of litter types with flagrant disregard for their surroundings, said Conor Horgan of IBAL. 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 per cent 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, added Mr Horgan. 15 patients over the age of 75 waiting over 24 hours for a bedOver 761 patients waiting on trolleys in A&E or in other areasOutpatient clinics shut and appointments cancelledHospitals bring back lockdown-style compulsory face masks Weather conditions in Co Wicklow with heavy snow falls, dense freezing fog, sleet and black ice forecast. Photo: Collins Snowy conditions at the Rock of Dunamase in Co Laois. Temperatures could drop further this week. Photo: PA Freezing temperatures will pile more pressure on crisis-hit hospitals as a flood of flu patients and the impact of subzero weather leave hundreds of people without a bed. The elderly are among the worst hit, with 15 patients over the age of 75 having to suffer through a delay of over 24 hours to be moved to a ward yesterday. More than 761 patients who needed to be admitted were faced with the misery of being put on emergency department trolleys or spread out in other areas such as assessment units yesterday. Some hospitals are bringing back lockdown-style compulsory face masks. A perfect storm of a spike in flu, the post-Christmas influx of very sick people, accidents, as well as the knock-on impact of sub-zero weather on those with lung conditions have driven up overcrowding. Patients who attend the emergency department for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times It comes as Met Eireann warned more status orange warnings were possible later this week when it will turn even colder, with temperatures expected to plummet to -8C in places. A status yellow ice and snow warning is in place for the entire country until midday today while a status yellow low-temperature ice warning for the country has been extended until midnight on Thursday. Snowy conditions at the Rock of Dunamase in Co Laois. Temperatures could drop further this week. Photo: PA Thousands still without power as some schools close after heavy snowfall Hospitals treated 833 people with complications of flu yesterday, along with 158 others who had RSV and 63 who had Covid. Meanwhile, thousands of patients who were due to attend outpatient clinics in several hospitals in counties worst hit by the Arctic blast were told to stay at home due to cancellations. Outpatient clinics were shut in Cork University Hospital, University Hospital Kerry and St Lukes Kilkenny and in South Tipperary University Hospital. The Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise is cancelling outpatient clinics again today. Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and the hospital would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED or seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke. Please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency, it said. A spokesman for University Hospital Limerick (UHL), where 122 patients were waiting for a bed yesterday, said: With flu continuing to circulate at high levels, face masks are now mandatory in UHL. In all other acute hospitals in our region Ennis, Nenagh, St Johns and Croom Orthopaedic Hospital and all residential facilities, we are urging visitors to please wear a face mask to protect themselves, our patients and staff. Other hospitals struggling with overcrowding included Sligo, Tullamore and Tallaght in Dublin. Weather conditions in Co Wicklow with heavy snow falls, dense freezing fog, sleet and black ice forecast. Photo: Collins A spokeswoman for Sligo University Hospital said it remained under significant pressure with very high flu rates and high numbers attending the emergency department. The hospital yesterday afternoon was treating 29 patients with respiratory illnesses and managing a flu outbreak affecting four wards. In addition, there are 31 patients on trolleys awaiting admission to in-patient beds, the spokeswoman said. In University Hospital Galway some elective procedures are being postponed today. Urgent, time-sensitive cases are being prioritised and patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed. The hospital is restricting visiting to the affected wards. Visiting to the affected wards is limited to compassionate grounds only and visitors are advised to ring the ward in advance of any visiting. 'We are taking steps in affected counties to prioritise people living alone As always, we treat our sickest patients first, which means that patients who attend the emergency department for routine and non-urgent treatment will experience very long waiting times. Treacherous travelling conditions meant that carers who are vital to older people and those with a disability also had to curtail visits. Civil defence teams were helping out the most critical by ferrying carers. The HSE said: We are taking steps in affected counties to prioritise people living alone. If you are in any doubt or worried please contact your service. The public is asked to check on neighbours who are elderly and vulnerable. The HSE urged people to consider all options and pathways available to them before attending the emergency department. People with less severe injuries and symptoms may have to wait to be seen. If you need care, visit your pharmacy, GP or family doctor, GP Out of Hours, or an injury unit for non-serious injuries. The Indo Daily: Why is even the mention of water charges like playing with fire for politicians? French president also criticises Elon Musk comments French president Emmanuel Macron extended an olive branch to US president-elect Donald Trump yesterday, 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. 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, Mr Macron said at the Elysee Palace, emphasising Frances commitment to fostering cooperation while urging European nations to fortify their unity and resilience. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 6, 2025, Schaeffler signed a framework cooperation agreement with the local government of Anting Town, Jiading District, Shanghai, to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary, Schaeffler Hydrogen Energy Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., according to a post on the company's WeChat account. Photo credit: Schaeffler The new subsidiary will focus on the R&D, and production of hydrogen energy-related technologies and products, offering hydrogen energy solutions to end-users across various application scenarios. Hydrogen energy, known for its abundance and zero-carbon nature, holds significant potential in combating climate change and is becoming a vital carrier for global energy transitions. Against the backdrop of China's "dual carbon" goals, Schaeffler aims to leverage its technological expertise to accelerate the application and industrialization of hydrogen energy technologies. The newly established company is located in the Jiading Hydrogen Energy Port within Anting Town, Jiading District, Shanghai. It will concentrate on developing and commercializing hydrogen technologies, such as PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) and AEM (Anion Exchange Membrane) electrolyzer stacks for water electrolysis. Following the establishment of Schaeffler Hydrogen Energy Technology in Jiading, the company plans to integrate deeply into the regional supply chain and drive innovation in the hydrogen energy industry. Recently, Schaeffler participated in Shanghai's first source-grid-load-storage integrated zero-carbon hydrogen storage project, located at the Shanghai Hydrogen Storage and Power Base in Jiading Hydrogen Energy Port. For this demonstration project, Schaeffler provided a complete set of PEM electrolyzer solutions for hydrogen production, including pure water production, power supply, and gas-water separation. This marks Schaeffler's first commercial-grade PEM hydrogen production system delivery, signifying a crucial milestone in its hydrogen energy endeavors. Hydrogen energy is a strategic focus area for Schaeffler. The company's core competencies in metal forming, materials technology, and surface treatment enable it to play a pivotal role in developing hydrogen-related products and achieving large-scale production. Schaeffler's hydrogen energy strategy spans the entire value chain, from hydrogen production to its application in fuel cells and even green steel manufacturing. One of Schaeffler's key products in this sector is the metallic bipolar plate, a critical component for electrolyzers and hydrogen fuel cells. Manufactured through precision forming and special coating processes, these plates enhance the efficiency of hydrogen systems. Additionally, Schaeffler provides specialized bearings, thermal management modules, electronic control systems, sensors, and hydrogen recirculation components to support the development of efficient hydrogen fuel cell power systems. Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the certification of her defeat to Donald Trump on Monday, four years after he tried to stop the very process that will now return him to the White House. Indias Draft DPDP Rules, 2025 Released for Public Review Indias central government has released the draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules (DPDP Rules), 2025, under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The draft, open for public feedback until February 18, 2025, outlines strict guidelines for data retention and user privacy. On January 3, 2025, the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released the draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, or DPDP Rules, 2025, under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act). These draft rules have been made available for public review (see here for official link), inviting comments, objections, and suggestions until February 18, 2025. The draft DPDP Rules, 2025, comprising 22 provisions and seven schedules, align with the 44 sections of the DPDP Act. It provides detailed information, such as guidelines on notice requirements, consent management, security safeguards, handling personal data breaches, and addressing data related to children and individuals with disabilities. Key roles under the DPDP Act Data fiduciary: An entity that determines the purpose and means of processing personal data. Responsibilities include obtaining consent, ensuring data security, and enabling individuals (data principals) to exercise rights, such as access, correction, and deletion of their data. Data processor: A third party that processes data on behalf of a data fiduciary, acting solely under its instructions. Examples include payroll or cloud service providers. Data fiduciaries must ensure processors comply with legal obligations via contracts. Data principal: It means an individual whose personal data is being processed. They have rights to access, correct, delete, or withdraw consent regarding their data and seek grievance redressal. Consent manager: A third-party entity facilitating data principals in managing consent. They operate interoperable platforms, ensuring transparency, security, and compliance, under the oversight of the Data Protection Board (DP Board). Key features of the draft DPDP Rules, 2025 The draft DPDP Rules, 2025, introduce a framework to safeguard personal data and uphold privacy rights. Below is an overview of key provisions: Notice requirements for data fiduciaries: Data fiduciaries must issue clear, standalone notices to data principals (individuals whose data is being collected). These notices should include: A detailed list of the personal data collected. The purpose for processing the data. An explanation of the goods, services, or uses enabled by such processing. Steps for withdrawing consent, exercising rights, and filing complaints. The notice must also provide accessible communication links to the fiduciarys platform and describe methods for easily withdrawing consent or raising grievances, ensuring simplicity and transparency. Consent managers: The consent managers (third-party entity or platform), responsible for facilitating data principals in managing their consent, must meet specific criteria, including: Entity registered in India with a minimum net worth of INR 20 million (US$233,414). An interoperable platform for managing, reviewing, and withdrawing consent. High standards of transparency, security, and conflict-free operations. Consent managers must secure prior approval from the DP Board before transferring control or ownership. Data processing by the state: The state government and its agencies can process personal data to provide subsidies, benefits, services, certificates, licenses, or permits as defined by law or funded through public resources. Such processing must comply with standards outlined in Schedule II of the act, ensuring it is lawful, transparent, secure, and limited to the necessary data for these purposes. Reasonable security safeguards: Data fiduciaries are required to implement reasonable security measures to protect personal data, including encryption, access control, monitoring for unauthorized access, data backups, etc. Contracts with data processors must ensure adherence to these security requirements. Data breach notification: In the event of a data breach, data fiduciaries must: Inform affected individuals promptly, providing details about the breach, its impact, and measures for mitigation. Notify the DP Board within 72 hours of detection (or longer, if approved), sharing comprehensive information about the incident. Accountability and compliance: The DPDP draft rules specify that data fiduciaries must process personal data lawfully, limit usage to necessary purposes, and retain data only for as long as required. They are also mandated to publish grievance redressal mechanisms on their platforms. Data retention policies: Entities like e-commerce platforms with over 20 million users, online gaming intermediaries with over 5 million users, and social media platforms with over 20 million users must delete user data after three years unless the user actively maintains their account. Data protection impact assessments (DPIAs): Significant data fiduciaries must conduct annual DPIAs to identify and mitigate risks in data processing activities. These assessments also ensure that algorithmic systems used do not infringe on the rights of data principals. Processing of personal data outside India: Data fiduciaries processing data within India or in connection with offering goods or services to data principals from outside India must comply with any requirements the central government sets in respect of making such personal data available to a foreign state or its entities. Exemptions for research and statistics: The draft rules exempt personal data processing for research, archiving, or statistical purposes, provided it follows the safeguards outlined in Schedule II. This allows necessary data usage for academic and policy research while maintaining protection standards. Enforcement mechanism: The framework includes establishing the DP Board, appointing its chairperson and members, and provisions for appealing decisions through designated appellate authorities. How the draft DPDP Rules 2025 will impact businesses, users, and regulators in India The DPDP Rules, 2025, are expected to have a varied impact on businesses, users, and regulators, while also presenting notable challenges and concerns. According to legal experts, compliance with the new regulations will likely require substantial investments, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Organizations relying on digital data processing must implement advanced consent management systems, strengthen data security measures, and maintain transparent communication regarding users data rights and usage. These requirements could lead to significant operational and financial adjustments. Smaller businesses may face difficulties in establishing consent mechanisms and meeting data localization requirements, potentially necessitating costly modifications to their platform designs and organizational architecture. Another area of concern is the timeline for reporting data breaches. The DPDP draft rules require breaches to be reported to the DP Board within 72 hours, conflicting with existing MeitY guidelines under Indias IT Act, 2000, which mandate reporting cyber incidents to CERT-In (a national nodal agency for responding to computer security incidents) within six hours. For users, however, the rules offer enhanced privacy protections by providing clearer and more enforceable rights over their personal data. These measures grant users greater control over how their information is collected, processed, stored, and shared, fostering trust in digital platforms and ensuring their privacy is safeguarded. (US$1 = INR 85.68) Solo Leveling Season 2 Episode 2 OTT Release: Solo Leveling's second season began with an explosive Red Gate arc that left viewers wanting more. People anticipate greater suspense, action, and more to come, as the first episode set the foundation for bigger and better things. If you've seen the first episode of the anime and are curious about the second, here's all we know, including the time, platform, and what to expect from the anime. Where to watch Solo Leveling Season 2 Episode 2? Solo Leveling Season 2 will be released on OTT platform Crunchyroll. When to watch Solo Leveling Season 2 Episode 2? Solo Leveling Season 2 Episode 2 will be released on 11th January 8:30 PM. What to expect from Solo Leveling Season 2 Episode 2? In the second episode, Jinwoo will have to overcome the obstacles that are shown to him in it. Kim Chul's survival after colliding with the Ice Elves suggests that Jinwoo and Kim Chul may clash. Timings all over the world: Pacific Standard Time - January 11 - 7:00 AM Central Standard Time - January 11- 9:00 AM Eastern Standard Time - January 11- 10:00 AM Greenwich Mean Time - January 11- 3:00 PM Central European Time - January 11- 4:00 PM Philippines Standard Time - January 11- 11:00 PM Australian Central Standard Time - January 12- 12:30 AM More about Solo Leveling season 2 The description of Solo Leveling season 2 reads, They say whatever doesnt kill you makes you stronger, but thats not the case for the worlds weakest hunter Sung Jinwoo. After being brutally slaughtered by monsters in a high-ranking dungeon, Jinwoo came back with the System, a program only he could see, thats leveling him up in every way. Now, hes inspired to discover the secrets behind his powers and the dungeon that spawned them. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call OTT release date: Soon, Netflix Korea's first original medical series will be available to watch on OTT. The series presents distinct characters, such as Choo Young-woo and others. Distancing itself from conventional hospital dramas, the series focuses on the urgency of the rescue and the teamwork of a competent team. The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call will be released on 24th January 2025. Plot Ju Ji-hoon plays the lead role of Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk, a brilliant surgeon with years of experience in combat zones, according to Netflix. With a sarcastic sense of humor and a passion to transform trauma care in Korea, Baek is committed to building a premier trauma hospital that saves lives. Every life-saving moment in the series is infused with his trademark comedy, resulting in a controlled mayhem. In addition to having a variety of settings, such as battlefields and mountain accidents, it exudes a feeling of scope and intensity that is uncommon in medical dramas. Netflix describes the show as, Genius surgeon and former combat medic Baek Kang-hyuk breathes life into a titular trauma team in this exhilarating medical series. The platform also states, While the series embraces the drama of fiction, its attention to medical detail ensures an authentic viewing experience. Cast and crew Ju Ji-Hoon plays Baek Kang-Hyuk, a crucial character at the center of the narrative, in the series' cast. Yang Jae-Won is portrayed by Choo Yeong-Woo. Han Yoo-Rim is portrayed by Yoon Kyung-Ho. Jeong Jae-Kwang portrays Park Kyung-Won, while Ha-Young plays Cheon Jang-Mi. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Chahat Pandey and her secret Gujarati boyfriend have become one of the biggest chatter points on the internet after it was discussed by Salman Khan on the latest episode of Bigg Boss 18. The actress mother lately announced a reward of Rs 21 lacs for anyone who finds the identity of the guy everyone has been referring to and Reddit has done its thing. It has a name and also a now-viral picture. Who is Chahat Pandeys boyfriend? A Reddit thread recently claimed that the mystery boy is actor Manas Shah. The Internet was able to connect the dots due to three reasons. First, they found a picture of him with Chahat where the actress can be seen standing close to him and resting her hand on his chest. The other reason that solidified is that he is primarily a Gujarati actor who later ventured into TV solidifying Salman Khans clear hint that Chahats man is of Gujarati origin. Reddit Also Read: After Chahat Pandeys mother challenges Bigg Boss 18 over BF claims, makers turn to rival Aalisha Panwar The third way Reddit was convinced about the Manas and Chahat link-up was that the duo worked together in a ZEE TV serial titled Hamari Bahu Silk. The love between the duo might have bloomed on the sets. Its been over 5 years since the show aired and the Bigg Boss 18 makers also claimed with a picture that Chahat very recently celebrated her 5th anniversary with her Mr Man. This claim was further solidified by a tweet made by controversial KRK. Check here:- Bigg Boss 18 airs all week at 10:30 PM on Monday to Friday and 9:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday. The finale of this season is scheduled for January 19, 2025. Indiatimes dont claim the authenticity of this news and have only curated the internets opinion. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: The Maha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, celebrated by millions of Hindus. It takes place every 12 years at four different locations in India: Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Nashik, and Ujjain. The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela is all set to be held in 2025, from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj. This festival is known for its sacred baths, called Shahi Snan, where devotees believe they can cleanse their sins and attain spiritual benefits. The event has a rich history and deep significance in Hindu culture, drawing pilgrims from across the globe. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Historical Background The Kumbh Mela has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. According to Hindu mythology, the festival highlights the battle between the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) for the nectar of immortality (amrit). During this cosmic struggle, four drops of amrit fell at four locations: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. These locations are now known as Kumbh Mela sites. The first recorded Kumbh Mela took place in 200 BC, but it has been celebrated in various forms for centuries. The term "Kumbh" refers to a pot that symbolises abundance and prosperity. Kumbh Mela vs Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Kumbh Mela and Maha Kumbh Mela are two prominent religious gatherings in Hinduism, both attracting millions of devotees, but they differ in several key aspects. Kumbh Mela Frequency : Kumbh Mela occurs every three years. : Kumbh Mela occurs every three years. Locations : It is celebrated at four sacred sites: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj. : It is celebrated at four sacred sites: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj. Attendance: Each Kumbh Mela attracts millions of attendees, but the numbers are generally smaller compared to the Maha Kumbh. Maha Kumbh Mela Frequency : Maha Kumbh Mela takes place once every twelve years. : Maha Kumbh Mela takes place once every twelve years. Location : This grand gathering is exclusively held in Prayagraj at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. : This grand gathering is exclusively held in Prayagraj at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Attendance: The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025 is expected to attract over 45 crore (450 million) pilgrims, making it one of the largest religious gatherings globally. The event will run from January 13 to February 26, 2025. When Will Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start? The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 will be held in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh. The festival commenced on January 13, 2025, and will continue until February 26, 2025. The most auspicious bathing dates, known as Shahi Snan, are important for devotees who believe that taking a dip in the sacred waters during these times will cleanse them of sins and lead to salvation. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Key Dates for Shahi Snan Here are the important upcoming dates for Shahi Snan during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Important Bathing Dates Occasion January 13, 2025 Paush Purnima Snan (Opening Day) January 15, 2025 Makar Sankranti Snan January 29, 2025 Mauni Amavasya Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan) February 3, 2025 Basant Panchami Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan) February 12, 2025 Maghi Purnima Snan February 26, 2025 Maha Shivratri Snan (Concluding Day) These dates are considered particularly auspicious for taking a holy dip in the Ganges River. Ways to reach Maha Kumbh Mela by Road? Car/Bus: You can drive or take a bus to Prayagraj. Major highways connect the city to various regions: You can drive or take a bus to Prayagraj. Major highways connect the city to various regions: Delhi to Prayagraj: Approx. 700 km via NH19 (around 11 hours drive). Approx. 700 km via NH19 (around 11 hours drive). Lucknow to Prayagraj: Approx. 200 km via NH30 (around 4-5 hours drive). Approx. 200 km via NH30 (around 4-5 hours drive). Varanasi to Prayagraj: Approx. 120 km via NH19 (around 3 hours drive). Approx. 120 km via NH19 (around 3 hours drive). Local Transport: Within the city, expect shuttle buses and e-rickshaws for easy movement around the Mela area. Ways to reach Maha Kumbh Mela by Train? To reach out, Prayagraj Maha Kumbh Mela trains are considered the most opted yet convenient. During Maha Kumbh Mela, Pryagraj Junction is the main railway hub that unites it to almost all regions. Prayagraj has eight railway stations that run trains to major cities of India such as Patna, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bhopal, Gwalior, and Jaipur. Local trains, auto rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and city buses are available at the railway station to reach the Mahakumbh Mela. Main Stations: Prayagraj Junction: The primary station with extensive connections. The primary station with extensive connections. Naini Junction and Subedarganj Station: Alternative options nearby. Ways to reach Maha Kumbh Mela by domestic flights? To reach the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, which will take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, domestic flights are a convenient option. Prayagraj Airport (Bamrauli Airport), also known as Allahabad Airport, connects to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Lucknow through various airlines like IndiGo and Air India. It is advisable to book flights well in advance to secure seats and avoid higher prices. For those coming from international destinations, the nearest major airports are Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi and Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow. Official Website for Maha Kumbh Mela The official website for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is kumbh.gov.in. This site provides detailed information about the event, including important dates, accommodation options, and updates related to the festival, which will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. Visitors can also find details about various activities and facilities available during the Mela. When is the next Maha Kumbh Mela 144 years? The Maha Kumbh Mela occurs every 12 years, but it also follows a 144-year cycle based on the specific locations where it is held. This year, the Maha Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj 2025 is especially rare, which comes once every 144 years. The last Maha Kumbh Mela was held in 2013 in Allahabad (now Prayagraj). This fair lasted for 55 days and lakhs of pilgrims participated in it. This fair was considered the largest gathering in human history. And, this year it is all set to be celebrated from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj itself. Historically, the Maha Kumbh Mela has been celebrated for centuries, with significant gatherings of pilgrims and devotees participating in ritual bathing at sacred rivers. The festival is celebrated with various religious activities, including prayers, discourses, and cultural performances. Significance of Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Prayagraj holds intense spiritual significance for Hindus. Here are some key aspects: Spiritual Cleansing: Pilgrims believe that bathing (Shahi Snan) in the sacred waters during the Kumbh washes away sins and purifies the soul. Unity and Devotion: The gathering fosters a sense of community among devotees from diverse backgrounds who come together to celebrate their faith. Cultural Heritage: The event showcases India's rich cultural heritage through various rituals, ceremonies, and traditional performances. The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event. It is a celebration of faith that brings together millions of people in a spirit of devotion and unity. As Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 starts, it promises to be an extraordinary experience filled with spiritual awakening and cultural richness. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events. Bengaluru, are you ready for a ride into the future? On January 6, 2024, the citys Namma Metro Yellow Line got its first completely Made-in-India driverless trainset, and trust us, its nothing short of a game-changer. Manufactured by Titagarh Rail Systems at their state-of-the-art facility in Uttarpara, West Bengal, this train is set to take Bengalurus metro system to new heights. And its not just any trainits a sleek, stainless steel marvel designed to transport you seamlessly from RV Road to Bommasandra. The first ever automatic metro of India Lets talk about this automated beauty. The new train will run on the 19-km stretch of the Yellow Line, linking the ever-bustling Electronics City with the rest of the city. But heres the kicker: its driverless. Yes, you heard that right. This train is set to operate with zero human intervention, ushering in a whole new era of metro travel. But its not just about automationits also about Indias rising prowess in metro rail technology. Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, made it crystal clear during the inauguration: India is now the worlds third-largest in metro rail, and were on track to surpass the U.S. in just five years. Thats a whole lot of global bragging rights right there! A big win for India This isnt just a win for Bengaluruits a win for the entire country. Umesh Chowdhary, Managing Director of Titagarh Rail Systems, proudly declared that this is the first stainless steel metro train made entirely in India for the Yellow Line. Talk about some homegrown tech pride! Bengaluru's Yellow Line metro As the Yellow Line prepares to start operations with three trains running every 30 minutes, Bengaluru can look forward to a significant reduction in congestion. MP Tejasvi Surya stressed how this new line will serve over 2.5 lakh passengers daily, alleviating the massive traffic jams at places like Electronic City and Silk Board. No more hours stuck in trafficthis driverless train is here to speed up your commute. Titagarh is just getting started. By 2025, they plan to roll out two additional trainsets, and by September, theyll be delivering two trains a month. So buckle up, Bengaluruyour metro rides are about to get a whole lot faster, smarter, and way more exciting! The Karnataka High Court on Monday questioned why Nikita Singhania, the estranged wife of Atul Subhash, the Bengaluru techie who died by suicide last month, did not want a probe into the death. The single bench of Justice SR Krishna Kumar raised the question while rejecting the plea by Singhania seeking to cancel the FIR registered against her and her family in connection with the case. CREDIT: BCCL 'Nikita Singhania has right to seek legal remedies' Singhania's lawyer told the court that no ingredients were made out in the complaint for the registration of the FIR over the abetment of suicide. According to her lawyer, Atul Subhash had not mentioned any act by Singhania and her family members that drove him to die by suicide. Singhania's lawyer further argued that she had the right to seek legal remedies and couldn't be booked just for lodging a complaint against Atul Subhash. 'Why don't you want investigation' However, the court on Monday rejected the plea and asked: "The prima facie ingredients of the offence are made out in the complaint. Why don't you want the investigation to happen?" CREDIT: ANI Nikita Singhania, family granted bail The development comes days after Singhania, her mother, and her brother, who were arrested on 15 December on charges of abetment of suicide, were granted bail by a court in Bengaluru. Also read: 'Nikita Singhania was using my grandson as an ATM', alleges father of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash Atul Subhash's father expresses concern over grandson Responding to the trio being granted bail, Pawan Kumar Modi, the father of Atul Subhash, expressed concern over the safety of his grandson. "I am really worried about my grandson and where he is. We have received information from the Karnataka Police about our grandson, that he is in a boarding school in Faridabad... he has been admitted to the school at a very young age, which is illegal," he said. CREDIT: ANI Atul Subhash's father further alleged that Singhania was using her son to get bail. "The mother has no love for her child. She is just using him as an ATM to extort money. The mother used the child as a reason to apply for her bail. She has done this before as well," he alleged. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On December 31, 2024, Wuling's first locally produced EV (electric vehicle) battery, the MAGIC BATTERY, successfully rolled off the production line in Indonesia, marking Wuling as the first Chinese automotive brand to achieve local EV battery production in the country, according to a post on SAIC-GM-Wuling ("SGMW")'s WeChat account. Photo credit: SGMW According to the carmaker, the project, from inception to production, was completed in just four and a half months thanks to the efficient collaboration between the Saike Tech-REPT BATTERO and Wuling Indonesia teams. Despite numerous challenges, the installation and commissioning of the battery production line were accomplished in just 15 days. The production line involves a total investment of 40 million yuan. Wuling entered the Indonesian market in 2017 and has since launched nine popular models, including the Air ev, BinguoEV, and CloudEV. In 2024, Wuling Indonesia retailed 13,492 new energy vehicles, a 27% year-on-year jump. Since the launch of its first NEV model, the Air ev, in Indonesia in 2022, Wuling's cumulative NEV sales have reached 28,768 units, securing a local market share of over 40%. Additionally, in November 2024, PT SGMW Motor Indonesia celebrated the milestone of producing its 160,000th vehicle, namely, an export-ready CloudEV. At the time, the company stated that this achievement not only marked a significant breakthrough in Wuling brand's seven years of operations in Indonesia but also signaled the beginning of the company's strategy to establish a foothold in Indonesia and expand into global right-hand-drive markets. Embattled Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has seen some of his own closest allies deserting him in recent times, has called it a day and announced his resignation from the post. The two-time Prime Minister of Canada, who was set to seek re-election later this year, has been on a slippery slope for a very long time, which also saw his approval ratings plummet. CREDIT: AP Indian astrologer predicted Trudeau fall As Trudeau announced his decision to step down as Canadian Prime Minister, the social media post of an Indian astrologer who recently predicted it is going viral. Sharmistha, who claims to be a Vedic Astrologer, had predicted in October 2024 that soon Trudeau would fall and that it would be the end of his political career. The Mumbai-based astrologer made the prediction in the context of the escalating India-Canada tensions. "I feel in this entire Episode of Canada-India diplomat expelling, Khalistani supportive narrative, Justin Trudeau will be the biggest loser personally," she posted on October 23, 2024. "His career is over due to his Chamchagiri to USA. Soon he will be out from Govt," she said. I feel in this entire Episode of Canada-India diplomat expelling, #Khalistani supportive narrative, Justin Trudeau will be the biggest loser personally. His career is over due to his Chamchagiri to USA. Soon he will be out from Govt. MARK THIS. #Astrology Astro Sharmistha (@AstroSharmistha) October 23, 2024 Astrologer has a warning for Bangladesh's leader On Monday, Sharmistha reposted her post, saying, "Justin Trudeau, made my first prediction in 2025 true." She also had a warning for the interim ruler of Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus. Justin Trudeau, made my first prediction in 2025 true. Md Yunus of Bangladesh should learn the lesson now. Sooner, the better for him. Fighting with Narendra Modi & India will not take you any where. #Astrology Astro Sharmistha (@AstroSharmistha) January 6, 2025 Also read: 'People in Canada love being the 51st state of US', Donald Trump reacts to Justin Trudeau's resignation How Trudeau destroyed India-Canada ties Trudeau had been on a warpath with India since September 2023, when he told the Canadian Parliament that there were credible allegations of the involvement of agents of the Indian government in the killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead in June that year, in Surrey, British Columbia. CREDIT: REUTERS Trudeau has since doubled down on his allegations, leading to an unprecedented diplomatic standoff and the bilateral ties between India and Canada hitting an all-time low. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. US President-elect Donald Trump wasted little time reiterating his idea of integrating Canada with the US as its 51st state, following the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. According to Trump, many Canadians love being a part of the US, and if the two countries merge, it will make a great nation. CREDIT: REUTERS 'Many people in Canada love...' 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. 'What a great nation it would be' If Canada merged with the US, 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 said. CREDIT: REUTERS Trump's push to integrate Canada Following his presidential election win in November, Trump has, on at least two previous occasions, mentioned that Canada should be the 51st state of the US. Recently he had referred to Trudeau as Governor of the Great State of Canada. How Trump expedited Trudeau government's collapse Trump's push for a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian imports, once he assumes office, is one of the many reasons that led to the resignation of Trudeau. Last month, Canadian Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland had quit the Trudeau government over a disagreement on how to deal with the incoming Trump administration. CREDIT: REUTERS Trudeau's resignation Trudeau has seen his popularity take a massive drop in recent times due to Canada's cost of living crisis, immigration, and other issues. It was widely expected that Trudeau would call for early elections and not wait until October this year, when his term in office comes to an end. Trudeau announced he would step down once the Liberal Party selects a new leader, leaving him as a caretaker prime minister until then. For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. India reports a total of seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in children, two each in Karnataka, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad on Monday. Amid a surge in a cocktail of respiratory illnesses in China, the sudden rise of the HMPV virus in India has raised concerns. However, Union Health Minister JP Nadda assured on Monday that the virus is not something new, and the situation does not indicate the onset of another outbreak similar to the COVID-19 one. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and has been circulating globally for many years. 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 cause pic.twitter.com/IN1o5N38dq Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) January 6, 2025 According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the eight-month-old and the 3-month-old infant and the other reported cases had no travel history, and despite that, they were diagnosed with human metapneumovirus. However, the Union Health Ministry as well as the state governments are closely monitoring the situation. HMPV virus was first detected in 2001 as a respiratory infection that mimics flu-like symptoms. The virus is currently affecting people across all age groups, but it mostly targets kids. But why are only children vulnerable to the virus? HMPV virus in India: What makes kids vulnerable to the virus The human metapneumovirus is a type of respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, especially in young children. Apart from children, HMPV also targets older adults and individuals with weak immunity, says Dr. Renu Soni, MD (Respiratory Medicine), Consultant Pulmonologist, NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida. Children are more vulnerable to HMPV viruses because their immune systems are still developing. Dr. Nasiruddin G, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, explains, Their immune cells are still maturing, and they lack exposure to various environmental factors that adults have already encountered. This imposes a significant challenge on their immune system to combat viral infections, making kids more susceptible to HMPV viruses. #Breaking PRESS RELEASE REGARDING #HMPV One must be prepared for any ill effects of virus. At present the situation appears to be under control and there is no need to panic! But @MoHFW_INDIA must take presumptive actions.@PMOIndia @JPNadda @DghsIndia @ANI @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/x82zoAEj6t FAIMA Doctors Association (@FAIMA_INDIA_) January 6, 2025 Risk of HMPV in children Kids are more likely to get affected by this particular virus. They are vulnerable to HMPV because their immune system is not fully developed yet. This makes it harder for their bodies to combat infections. According to Dr. Amit Gupta, Senior Neonatologist & Paediatrician, at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, "Children is often in close contact with others in schools, classes, daycare, or playgrounds, which significantly increases the chances of contracting this virus. This virus can easily spread through, coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces that are contaminated. This is why it becomes crucial for parents to take utmost care of their little ones to protect them against the HMPV virus." "This can be achieved by encouraging hygiene practices at home and also while going outdoors. Teach them to wash their hands frequently. Other preventive measures can include using a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing (dispose of the used tissues), eating meals that are rich in essential nutrients to boost their immunity, and avoiding exposure to those who are sick. Breastfeeding is important and provides natural immunity," adds Dr. Gupta. Is the HMPV virus more lethal than COVID-19? Talking about the death rates, the HMPV virus significantly causes lower respiratory tract infections, less lethal than COVID-19. According to Dr. Soni, Extremely rare instead is the evolving, invariably serious HMPV infection leading to a rare kind of pneumonia among higher-risk people. For more on lifestyle, astrology and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle. South Korea has now officially entered the category of a 'super-aged' society, with one-fifth of the population being individuals aged 65 years, as per the government data released on December 24, 2024. Following this, a post on X (formerly called Twitter), saying there are more living in the age bracket 84 years than 1-year-olds in South Korea currently, this post elicited a reaction from the tech billionaire, Elon Musk. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and the owner of SpaceX, has often expressed his concerns about the population collapse and low population growth rates. Apart from South Korea, Musk also shared a post about the large population decline expected in China and India. Elon Musk believes a population crisis is real Back in 2023, the billionaire shared a post on X, showing concerns that the 'population crisis is real.' One of his posts read, "Population collapse due to low birth rates is a bigger danger to civilization than global warming. According to the post, the United States and Japan have noticed a decrease in population, while China, South Korea, and Singapore saw a major drop in fertility rates. The population collapse is one of the most significant threats to civilization. Musk has time and again urged the world that our society must raise our birth rate to combat ageing populations. The government data of South Korea reported that 10.24 million people in the country are now aged 65 or above. This represents around 20 per cent of South Korea's total population of 51 million. This is how great civilizations throughout history have ended. People assume it was due to conquest, but it was actually often simply too much prosperity leading to low birth rate and population collapse, which ultimately enabled them to be conquered. https://t.co/ncrHlx7lPG Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 Netizens on the internet give Elon Musk a reason for dip Elon Musk, as usual, shared the population post of South Korea, which indicated that the population of individuals 84 years old is more in South Korea as compared to 1-year-olds. Musk shared this post with a two-word caption saying population collapse. As soon as the post was shared by the Tesla CEO, netizens started sharing their perspective about the reason behind the dip in population. Where one user wrote, that the data is both beautiful and terrifying at the same time. While another user expressed that this happens when one puts work before family. On the other hand, some users shared numbers to explain the reason, as one wrote, to maintain a balanced population, the fertility rate is 2.9 per woman and man. It is not as simple as having more children; economically, people are facing a more difficult time now to survive than they did in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. "Make it so only 1 member of the household has to work, and the population will boom again," one wrote. This Data is both beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Ted Bullpit (@TedBullpit79515) January 7, 2025 The reason why developed countries are noticing population collapse is mainly because of the decline of traditional values like religion and nationalism. Its not as simple as having more kids. Economically people have a much harder time now to survive than they did in the 50s 60s and 70s. Make it so only 1 member of the household has to work and the population will boom again Moonlit (@BrilliantMarine) January 7, 2025 People today only see themselves as individuals, not as part of something larger than themselves, another comment read. What do you think, why is the population of South Korea seeing a decline? Let us know in the comment section below. As of Monday, India has confirmed seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in children, with two cases each reported in Karnataka, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad. This comes on the heels of a recent mass outbreak of HMPV in China, sparking concerns about whether this virus could escalate like Covid-19. But just as quickly as the fear spreads, something else is going viralmemes. And they are absolutely hilarious! Well, humour, as always, is the perfect antidote to uncertainty, and this time it's certainly delivering! Check out the HMPV memes here: IT employees after hearing reports of the first case of the #HMPV virus in Bengaluru.pic.twitter.com/Y7NtKGq6DJ Vijay Chauhan (@_VijayChauhan) January 6, 2025 *when people are making memes on new virus instead of being afraid* HMPV : pic.twitter.com/Nq5oROjj83 Ayushi (@ShutupAyushiii) January 6, 2025 People making memes instead of getting worried on new HMPV virus Virus be like : pic.twitter.com/eVNNl2RFJG U M A R (@Agrumpycomedian) January 6, 2025 What is HMPV? The Union Health Minister, JP Nadda, has reassured that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus, and the current situation won't be like the Covid-19 pandemic. First identified in 2001, HMPV is a respiratory virus that can affect anyone, but it primarily impacts young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. HMPV symptoms are similar to the common cold and may include cough, fever, congestion, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The virus spreads through droplets from coughs and sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. To prevent the spread of HMPV, it's important to wash hands regularly with soap, use hand sanitisers when soap isn't available, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and cover your coughs or sneezes with your elbow or a tissue. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, the focus is on managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications for fever and cough, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest. In severe cases, especially for vulnerable groups, hospitalisation may be necessary. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Costas Simitis, who served as Greeces Prime Minister for two consecutive terms, is remembered as a European visionary and a leader whose tenure marked a transformative era for modern Greece. From 1996 to 2004, Mr. Simitis led the country through a period of profound change, steering Greece into the core of the European Union, overseeing the adoption of the euro, and securing Cypruss accession to the EU. Born in Piraeus on June 23, 1936, Mr. Simitis studied law and economics in Germany and the United Kingdom, where he also met his wife, Daphne Simitis, nee Arkadiou. The couple has two daughters, Fiona and Marilena. Mr. Simitiss political career began during Greeces dictatorship (1967-1974), when he became an active member of the resistance. In 1970, while in Germany, he joined the Panhellenic Liberation Movement (PAK). After the fall of the junta, he became one of the founding members of Pasok in 1974, contributing significantly to the formulation of the "Declaration of the 3rd of September." On January 18, 1996, Mr. Simitis succeeded Andreas Papandreou as Prime Minister following a parliamentary vote by Pasoks parliamentary group. Later that year, he was elected President of Pasok at the partys fourth congress, defeating Akis Tsochatzopoulos. He was re-elected as Pasoks leader at the fifth and sixth party congresses in 1999 and 2001, respectively. In the national elections of April 2000, Mr. Simitis secured a second term as Prime Minister, bolstered by increased support for Pasok. On January 7, 2004, he announced his resignation as Pasok leader, aiming to ensure a smooth political transition, while continuing to serve as Prime Minister until the end of his term in March 2004. Mr. Simitiss premiership is widely recognized for pivotal achievements that reshaped Greeces trajectory. His leadership saw Greeces entry into the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) in 2001 and the subsequent introduction of the euro in 2002. Equally significant was his role in Cypruss accession to the EU in 2004. The historic signing of the Accession Treaty at the Stoa of Attalos in Athens on April 16, 2003, marked a triumph of national strategy, despite years of skepticism and external pressure. During Greeces presidency of the European Union in 2003, Mr. Simitis skillfully navigated the geopolitical tensions following the U.S.-led intervention in Iraq, fostering a unified EU stance. The period also saw the adoption of the Thessaloniki Agenda, advancing the European integration of the Western Balkans. Domestically, Mr. Simitis oversaw major infrastructure projects that transformed Greeces landscape. These included the construction of the Athens Metro, the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, the Egnatia Motorway, and the "Eleftherios Venizelos" International Airport. Under his administration, preparations for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games advanced significantly, while new hospitals and social initiatives such as the Citizen Service Centers (KEP) and the "Help at Home" program were introduced. Mr. Simitis consistently emphasized modernization and reform, seeking to stabilize and grow the Greek economy while strengthening the nations position within Europe and on the global stage. His efforts have left an enduring legacy, defining a critical chapter in Greeces modern history. As Greece reflects on Mr. Simitiss tenure, his vision for a European Greece and his role in pivotal national milestones remain central to his lasting impact on the country. iefimerida.gr The island of Crete is experiencing a significant surge in migrant arrivals, with over 300 people reaching its shores in the first few days of 2025. This influx highlights the ongoing challenges of migration in the Mediterranean and the desperate measures people take to seek safety and a better life. According to data from Cretapost, 316 migrants have arrived at Gavdos and Kaloi Limenes since the start of the year. Among them are numerous minors, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact of these perilous journeys. In a series of incidents between January 2nd and 4th, seven boats carrying migrants reached Crete. Most of the migrants departed from Libya, with many reporting that they paid smugglers large sums of money for passage to Greece. The Hellenic Coast Guard has been actively responding to these arrivals, rescuing migrants from overcrowded boats and detaining suspected smugglers. In one instance, a Coast Guard officer sustained a minor injury during a high-speed chase with a smuggling vessel. Authorities are intensifying their efforts to apprehend those responsible for these smuggling operations. The recent surge in arrivals underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of migration and ensure the safety and well-being of those seeking refuge. iefimerida.gr In his speech following the Epiphany water blessing ceremony at Dexameni Square in Athens, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed Greece as a "beacon of stability in an unstable world." Reflecting on the current challenges the country faces, he made poignant references to the late former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis and the health struggles of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania "Sunny Greece celebrates Epiphany with grandeur, as it deserves, drawing strength and hope from its message," Mr. Mitsotakis said. He highlighted the difficult period Greece is going through, acknowledging the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding the country and the loss of a political figure like Mr. Simitis, whose contributions to the nation had a lasting impact. Mr. Mitsotakis also expressed his concerns over the severe health condition of Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, noting, "We pray for him, just as he has prayed for us for decades." The Prime Minister's words resonated with the emotional weight of the moment, as the nation contemplates the health crisis facing one of its esteemed spiritual leaders. In his address, Mr. Mitsotakis reflected on the importance of the Epiphany message, focusing on the themes of optimism and hope. "The core message of Epiphany is one of optimism, hope, and confidence. Indeed, Greece today is a beacon of stability in an unstable world, a country forging progress despite the challenges in a broader environment of stagnation," Mr. Mitsotakis said. He urged the Greek people to hold onto this message of optimism in the face of adversity. Concluding his remarks, Mr. Mitsotakis offered his heartfelt wishes to the nation: "From the bottom of my heart, I wish each and every one of you a happy Epiphany, health, happiness, and a wonderful New Year." iefimerida.gr A frantic search is underway at the Seli Ski Resort in Imathia for a young skier who went missing on Epiphany Day. The skier, believed to be around 20 years old, vanished while exploring the slopes alone, prompting a large-scale rescue operation. The alarm was raised by the skier's friends after he failed to return to their group. A team of 12 firefighters with five vehicles is scouring the area, focusing their search along the ski runs. The Special Disaster Response Unit (EMAK) from Thessaloniki has been deployed to bolster the search effort, bringing with them their highly trained search dog Talos, a Belgian shepherd with a proven track record in disaster response, including assisting in the aftermath of the recent Turkish earthquake, is a valuable asset in the search. A drone is also being used to survey the mountainous terrain from above, providing a wider view of the search area. Officials acknowledge that such rescue operations can be lengthy, depending on weather conditions and the challenges of the terrain. As time passes, concerns are growing for the missing skier's safety, and rescuers are working tirelessly to locate him before nightfall. iefimerida.gr Dubai-basedsaid it plans to expand its operations in the United States and Greece, following its recent announcement of investment projects in partnership with US President-elect Donald Trumps Dar Global: Saudi real estate company plans investments in Greece and the US - Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has raised an alarm that bandits from the Northwest are relocating to the State due to the ongoing military operations in their zones. Makinde, however, vowed to deal decisively with the fleeing bandits, ensuring they do not find a safe haven in the State. Speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers in Ibadan on Monday, Makinde noted that the state faced significant security challenges in 2024, including fire outbreaks, armed robberies, and kidnappings. Advertisement He assured residents that his administration would redouble its efforts to address these issues in 2025. Makinde revealed that he received a security briefing indicating that some bandits from the Northwest were relocating to Oyo State. READ ALSO: Ondo Rival Cult Clash Claims Four Lives He said, During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them. The Governor emphasized the seriousness of the situation, recalling an incident where bandits camped less than two kilometers from his birthday retreat location. Makinde charged traditional rulers to report any suspicious movements in their areas to security operatives, assuring residents of their safety. He stated, To our traditional rulers, who are custodians of your domains, and to all residents, this is no joke. If you see suspicious movements, report them immediately. For us in Oyo, bandits will have no foothold. I will not sleep until every inch of this State is safe. Former staff members of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) who were dismissed in a mass layoff last year have taken the apex bank to court, demanding N30 billion in compensation. According to court documents sighted by Cable on Monday, the workers alleged that the CBN violated internal policies, Nigerian labour laws, and their contractual rights. The claimants, represented by Stephen Gana and 32 others, filed a class action lawsuit at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja. Advertisement The workers claimed that their termination process, carried out through letters titled Reorganizational and Human Capital Restructuring and dated April 5, 2024, violated both the CBN human resources policies and procedures manual (HRPPM) and Section 36 of the Nigerian constitution. READ ALSO: CBN Governor Cardoso Clarifies Departure Of 1,000 Staff, Insists They Werent Forced To Leave The claimants are seeking a court ruling that their dismissals are void and useless. They also sought a restraining order to prevent the CBN from firing them without following the proper procedures, immediate reinstatement, and payment of salaries and benefits from the date of termination. In response to the lawsuit, the Presiding Judge of the industrial court, Obaseki Osaghae, encouraged both parties to explore a settlement. It is my view that parties should attempt an amicable resolution of this dispute, Osaghae said. The matter has been adjourned to January 29 for the hearing of the preliminary objection or to review the progress of any settlement discussions. Former Kaduna Senator, Shehu Sani has described the political landscape in Rivers State as complicated and difficult to comprehend. According to Sani, Rivers State stands out as the only State in Nigeria with a complex political climate that defies all known and unknown laws of political thought and science. In a statement posted via X on Monday, Sani noted that the political dynamics in Rivers State are so intricate that party affiliations seem to blur. Advertisement READ ALSO: Kwankwaso Has No Peoples Support, Will See Reality In 2027 Ganduje If you are in APC, it means you are in PDP, and those in PDP mean they are in APC. Its like eating eba with sugar and eating bread with vegetable soup, he wrote. Sanis comments discloses the unique challenges of navigating Rivers States complex political terrain. With its complex web of alliances and rivalries, the States politics continues to fascinate and intrigue observers. Candace Owens, a well-known American media figure, has expressed strong affection for Nigerians. The political commentator shared that she wished she were Nigerian, highlighting the strong cultural heritage and value system of Nigerians. In a recent episode of her show, shared on X on Monday, Owens expressed her admiration for Nigeria, stating that she is a big fan of the country. Advertisement READ MORE: I Trusted Wrong Hands In Forex, Lost $3.7m Mark Angel She said, Im a Nigerian stan. I think Nigerians have their culture together. Whenever you meet a Nigerian, whether a doctor in the US, their families take marriage very seriously. I wish I were Nigerian. I do a little bit, but Im not. They do have a good culture Im a Nigerian stan. They are funny. They have very good values. Renowned actor Junior Pope has been honoured with a posthumous award at a prestigious event in Enugu, recognising his significant impact on the film industry. The actor tragically lost his life, along with several colleagues, in a boat accident while returning from a film shoot on April 10, 2024. The announcement of the award was made by respected producer Nani Boi, who shared a heartfelt message on Instagram on Tuesday. Advertisement READ MORE: Whos Big, Is Big Portable Expresses Admiration For Burna Boy, Declares Himself At The Top He expressed that Junior Popes contributions would be fondly remembered. The award was conferred by the Enugu State Government, through its Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as a tribute to the late actors remarkable legacy. In his post, Nani Boi wrote: Posthumous award to the late great Junior Pope ?Da Swagnation. Forever Green In Our Hearts . Thanks to the Enugu State Government via the ministry of culture and tourism. @madueke.ugoochi Junior Pope lives on .. Cc @ rechaelokonkwo. This recognition serves as a lasting reminder of Junior Popes profound influence on Nigerian cinema. SEE POST: https://www.instagram.com/p/DEg2Esdo9cj/?img_index=2&igsh=dmt6bXJhOTRwZnI1 The Chairman of Nasarawa Local Government Area (LGA) in Kano State, Yusuf Imam, has approved the appointment of 60 aides to serve in various capacities within the LGA. This move is part of Imams efforts to promote and develop the local government. According to the approval letter signed by the Local Government Secretary, Ado Muhd Hotoro, the appointments were made based on merit, dedication, honesty, and commitment. Advertisement The letter, as revealed by Daily Trust states, I wish to convey the approval for the appointment of the following prominent individuals to various roles across different fields and professions. READ ALSO: Kwankwaso Has No Peoples Support, Will See Reality In 2027 Ganduje The list of appointees includes 18 Special Reporters, Executive Assistant, Tribe, Chief Details Affairs I and II, Chief Protocol Officer, Principal Personnel Secretary, and eight Director Generals, among others. The appointees were however urged to diligently carry out their assigned duties to support the development goals of the local government. The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed confidence that the Party will reclaim power in Kano State come 2027. Ganduje, who was represented by the state APC Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, made this statement during the 8th and 9th APC Kano State House of Assembly Forum Dinner on. Monday . He specifically called out former Kano Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, saying I am always surprised when Rabiu Kwankwaso claims he has the peoples support. Advertisement According to him, Kwankwasos previous victories were due to internal issues within the APC, but that this time around, Kwankwaso will see the reality and that Kwankwasiyya is done. READ ALSO: 2027: Northern Leaders Shouldnt Show Favouritism In Candidate Selection Kwankwaso The APC National Chairman emphasized the importance of unity among party members, saying Unity is the only way out for us. Its the only option we have to achieve our goals. He also expressed confidence that the party will win the 2027 election, stating that the next election will be like moving a hen away from its eggs. Similarly, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, emphasized the need for party stakeholders to unite ahead of the 2027 election. Ata stated that the issue of the election is not our problem. If it were to hold today, we have no reason to fear. Let us pray and stay united. Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared a dawn-to-dusk curfew in Owo community, following a deadly cult clash. Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA had reported that four persons were killed during the crisis, which occurred between two rival cult groups on Monday morning. It was gathered that one of the victims, identified as Fisayo Oladipupo, a former youth leader of the All Progressive Congress in Owo Local Government Area, was shot dead in the early hours of Monday by assailants suspected to be cultists. Advertisement His remains have since been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre in Owo. Reacting to the unfortunate incident in a statement by Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday evening, said that Ayedatiwa directed security agencies to enforce the curfew. READ MORE: Ondo Rival Cult Clash Claims Four Lives He said: Due to the ongoing violent cult clashes and security disturbances in Owo, which have led to the loss of lives, the Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has ordered a dawn-to-dusk curfew in the town until further notice. All residents are required to remain indoors during the curfew. Only essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, are exempted from the curfew. The Governor has also asked security agencies in the state to enforce the curfew, ensure the safety of lives, and properties, arrest perpetrators of the violence and restore peace to the community. The Kano State Police have recovered a grey Rav-4 mini jeep, with registration number YAB 881 JK Abuja, and arrested a suspect who stole and abandoned the vehicle. The commands spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed this in a press statement made available to The PUNCH on Monday. He said, On December 28, 2024, at approximately 5:00 pm, a team of policemen from the Anti-Car Theft Unit, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Kano State Police Command, recovered an abandoned Rav-4 motor vehicle. Advertisement According to the statement, the vehicle is grey in colour and has the registration number YAB 881 JK, Abuja. It was discovered during a 24-hour visibility patrol along Kwanar Ungogo in Ungogo LGA, Kano State. READ MORE: 11 Oil Thieves Arrested As Army Destroys 21 Illegal Refineries In Niger Delta Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of the principal suspect, Bala Sani, a 40-year-old male from Funtua LGA, Katsina State. The suspect was apprehended on January 4, 2025, at his hometown in Kwado Quarters, Katsina LGA, Katsina State, he added. In the course of the preliminary investigation, the suspect confessed to collaborating with another individual to steal the Rav-4 in Zaria, Kaduna State. He said, He further admitted to driving the vehicle to Kano with the intention of selling it but on realizing the presence of police officers near Ungogo Junction, the suspect hurriedly abandoned the vehicle and escaped to his hometown. The recovered mini jeep is presently held by the command, and the suspect will be prosecuted in court once the investigation is finalised. The command also urged the owner of the vehicle to visit the Police Public Relations Office at the Kano State Command or contact 08067885568 with proof of ownership. Highlighting the importance of community cooperation, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, urged Kano residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Kano Police Commands contact numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926 for swift action. Residents can also use the Nigeria Police Forces NPF Rescue Me Application, available on the Play Store. Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has called on Nigerians to look beyond the controversy surrounding the proposed tax reform bills and focus on their impact. According to Bwala, the bills are a game-changer, streamlining tax administration and promoting fairness. Lets ditch the North vs. South noise and focus on the real impact. Bwala, via X on Monday, shortly after an appearance on Channels Televisions Politics Today, emphasized that President Tinubus administration is committed to transparency and is open to superior arguments on the tax bills. Advertisement READ ALSO: Tax Reforms: Tinubu Not A Lawmaker, Cant Be Blackmailed Bwala He noted that the Presidents policies are yielding tangible results, despite initial challenges. Im unapologetically proud to defend Mr Presidents bold and audacious reforms, Bwala said. Were not sugarcoating the truth just presenting verifiable facts, staying transparent, and tackling misinformation head-on. Bwalas comments come amid opposition to the tax reform bills, particularly from Northern Nigeria. However, he maintained that the bills would benefit the poor in the region. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has reiterated his commitment to ensuring that those responsible for the Ibadan stampede that claimed the lives of 35 children face justice, regardless of their social status. The incident occurred at a funfair organized for children at Islamic High School in Bashorun area of Ibadan in December 2024. A magistrate court in Ibadan had also remanded the organizers in custody after they were charged by the police. Advertisement Makinde emphasized that the rule of law will prevail, despite calls for clemency, pointing out that similar incidents in Anambra and the FCT were not punished. In the outgone year, we faced challenges. 2024 started for us here in Oyo State almost on a tragic note, Makinde said on Monday at the 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for State workers. On 16th January 2024, we had an explosion here in Bodija. It affected even my office. The impact was felt all around Ibadan. Were closing it out. READ ALSO: We Struggled With Economic Challenges, Our Resilience Was Tested Governor Makinde And then, towards the end of the year, we had the stampede at Islamic High School, Bashorun. 35 innocent souls were lost; may we not see such again in Oyo State. Quite a number of people have been reaching out to me, saying, Oh, this incident happened in Anambra State. It also occurred in the FCT. Nobody went to jail. Why is it that in Oyo State, some people are going to jail? I said, Well, Oyo State is not Anambra State, and no matter how highly placed, justice must be done. The judiciary is here; its in their court. If you think you can grant bail pending trial, I have nothing against it. But for the trial, the people must go on trial. So, people come to me, and Ive been saying to them, Oyo State, even if this entire country decides not to follow the rule of law, in Oyo State, we will follow; we will dare to be different. We will uphold the rule of law, he added. The Niger State Police Command has apprehended the individual responsible for the murder of 20-year-old Abdulrahman Isah, a motorcyclist from Pyata village, Maitumbi, a suburb of Minna, the state capital. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed this in a statement issued in Minna on Monday, explaining that the tragic incident occurred on January 2, 2025, around 2 pm. He stated that a distress call was received by the police, reporting a lifeless body found along the Pyata-Maitumbi Bye-Pass in Bosso. Advertisement Upon responding promptly to the scene, the police discovered the body of Abdulrahman Isah, a motorcyclist from Pyata village, lying in a pool of blood. The body was subsequently moved to a nearby hospital morgue. READ MORE: Man Killed In Delta After Confrontation Over Assault On Mother He claimed that during the inquiry, Abubakar Sadiq, a resident of the same area, was arrested in connection with the crime. He (the suspect) confessed to the crime, stating that he boarded the motorcycle from Berger Junction Bosso to Maitumbi. He further explained that while on their way, he deceived the rider and diverted him to follow a lonely path along the Pyata-Maitumbi Bye-Pass Road, where he used a stone to hit the rider on the head, the police spokesperson stated. After killing Abdulrahman, Sadiq took the motorcycle and later sold it to Ibrahim Garba, a 35-year-old motorcycle dealer at Beji Market. Garba, in turn, sold it to Bala Usman of Wushishi town in Wushishi Local Government Area for N310,000. The two individuals who received the stolen motorcycle were subsequently arrested, and N300,000 was recovered from them. The suspects are presently undergoing initial investigations and will be transferred to the SCID Minna for further questioning and legal proceedings. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike has vowed that some individuals arrested in connection with the theft of sewage manhole covers along Abujas highways will face legal consequences. Wike also noted that he will ensure that all buyers and users of the vandalized infrastructures will be apprehended and prosecuted for economic sabotage and putting the lives of Nigerians at risk. This was contained in a statement by Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister, Lere Olayinka, on Monday. Advertisement Lere added that the arrest of 50 suspects for alleged vandalism and theft of manhole covers within the FCT was a demonstration of the Federal Capital Territory Administration zero tolerance for criminalities. The former Rivers State Governor, also commended the security agencies for their prompt and decisive actions. READ MORE: FCT Police Nab 50 Suspects Over Alleged Theft Of Manhole Covers, Streetlights The statement partly reads: Those stealing and buying amenities meant for the use of Nigerians are Nigerians themselves. They live among us and they are known. It is therefore important that patriotic Nigerians begin to expose them even before they carry out their devilish acts. Safeguarding public amenities is first and foremost, the duty of Nigerians, who are the owners and users of the amenities. The government will always act promptly. WuXi AppTec, the Shanghai-based biotech giant, has sold its South Philly-based WuXi AppTec Advanced Therapies contract manufacturing unit to New York-based Altaris LLC, easing worries that federal limits on Chinese ownership of U.S. cell and gene factories could cripple Philadelphia start-ups that use the unit to produce their products. The sale, which doesnt include other WuXi AppTec facilities in Delaware or King of Prussia, was announced on Dec. 24 after months of discussions in which members of Congress proposed to stop federal funding for companies and institutions working with WuXi AppTec and other China-based contractors prompted manufacturers, University of Pennsylvania officials, and other industry leaders to scout for alternatives. Advertisement Manufacturing has been very important for us, and WuXi has been a reliable option for cell and gene therapy makers set up by Penn doctors, said John S. Swartley, the University of Pennsylvanias chief information officer. Matt Wetzel, a Lancaster native who represents small biotech firms and investors as a partner at the law firm Goodwin Procter LLP in Washington, D.C., said his clients say they work with Chinese biotech because they are better and faster. But Congress has spoken pretty clearly: Legislators believe weve created a troubling dependence, and they want to beef up the U.S. supply chain, Wetzel said. Part of an industrial group based in Shanghai, WuXi AppTec has been making biotech products for start-ups and pharmaceutical developers at the Navy Yard business center in South Philly since 2008, when it bought a U.S. company with labs on the site. As orders grew from Cabaletta Bio, Iovance, and more than a dozen other firms developing cell and gene therapies in the region in recent years, WuXi AppTec purchased three additional buildings in the Navy Yard, occupying more than 400,000 square feet and employing over 800 in all, making it one of the citys largest biotech employers. But last spring, federal lawmakers introduced the Biosecure Act, which would block federal funds for products developed with companies under the control of a foreign adversary, with special focus on those companies suspected of copying Americans genetic material a practice WuXi denied. The Biosecure bill won initial bipartisan support in Congress and even an endorsement by the influential Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) head John Francis Crowley, founder of Philadelphia-based Amicus Therapeutics, after Congress members threatened to name the group as an unregistered agent of a foreign adversary. Late protests from senators queasy about blackballing companies without right of appeal and a complaint by a U.S. manufacturer, Complete Genomics, that the proposal is unconstitutional and based on false information kept the bill from full congressional approval. Wetzel says he expects a new proposal this year in the new, Republican-led Congress. The AppTec sale to Altaris is expected to close by June, the companies said. Terms werent disclosed. The facilities Altaris is buying offer drugmakers a complete cell therapy outsourcing solution, according to WuXi AppTec, including viral-vector manufacturing, cell process development, biosafety testing, FDA-approved T-cell cancer therapy (a technology pioneered in Philadelphia), and name-brand research products. WuXi AppTec said the sale covered its U.S. and U.K. Advanced Therapies facilities. Altaris has committed to growing the [Advanced Therapies Unit] by supporting its employees, customers and patients, while his WuXi AppTec will continue in its other businesses to move toward our vision that every drug can be made, and every disease can be treated, Edward Hu, CEO of the WuXi AppTec Advanced Therapies unit, said in a statement. The sale doesnt include Project Dragonfly, WuXi AppTec Pharmaceuticals WuXi STA manufacturing plant, rising with help from $22 million in promises of state aid, in 1.7 million square feet of labs on 190 acres in Middletown, Del. That plant was to be completed in 2024. WuXi officials wouldnt comment on the status of the facility. Also not included in the sale are other affiliates such as WuXi Chemistry, WuXi Testing, and WuXi AppTecs WuXi Biology division. WuXi Biologics, a separate company, which makes therapies from living cells, has opened facilities in King of Prussia and Cranbury, N.J., in recent years. Altaris has invested in more than 40 life sciences and medical-related companies. These include Wayne-based Veranova (formerly Johnson Matthey Health) and a plant in West Deptford. Altaris also backs Telford-based implantable-device maker Solesis, whose clients include cell and gene therapy makers. Buyer Altaris founders have ties to Philadelphia. George Aitken-Davis, who studied biochemistry at Oxford and Padua, is a CHOP trustee. His cofounder, Daniel Tully, was a Penn economics major. They were both investment bankers at Merrill Lynch before starting Altaris in 2023. A Southwest Philadelphia man who torched a West Philly pharmacy during the 2020 racial justice protests was sentenced Tuesday to five years in prison the latest defendant to be incarcerated for setting fires as unrest coursed through the city for several days that spring. Tyrone Wise, 34, pleaded guilty in federal court last year to igniting a blaze in the SunRay Drugs pharmacy at the corner of 60th and Ludlow Streets. Wise committed the crime as protests over the police murder of George Floyd devolved into chaos, and after looters had already robbed and ransacked the store, prosecutors said. Advertisement The five-year sentence was the mandatory minimum for the arson-related count to which Wise admitted. In court Tuesday, he apologized, telling U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Savage that he had acted out of frustration and anger toward authorities, but that he had since come to realize that setting fire to a drugstore was all for nothing. Im just completely embarrassed for my actions, and if I could take it all back, I would, he said. Wise entered the pharmacy the night of May 31, 2020, prosecutors said, not long after nearby protests spiraled out of control, with police deploying tear gas along the nearby 52nd Street corridor, some of which wafted into residential neighborhoods. As looters began robbing businesses in the area, they ransacked the SunRay store on Ludlow Street. And shortly afterward, about 8:45 p.m., prosecutors said, Wise walked into the back of the store, placed an undetermined amount of stolen drugs into a trash can, then used a lighter to set fire to paper products before running away. He left the trash can with the stolen merchandise on the street. The blaze spread throughout the shop, causing extensive damage to the pharmacy and several apartments that were housed above it. Surveillance photos included in court documents showed flames engulfing products in the store and a workers computer screen. Wise is already serving a five-year sentence in state prison for an unrelated 2022 assault in which he beat up a neighbor who had gotten into an argument with his wife. He was convicted by a Philadelphia judge in 2023 of charges including aggravated assault. Savage, the judge in the arson case, ruled that half of Wises five-year federal sentence would run at the same time as his state sentence, meaning he will serve an additional 2 years in a federal facility once he is released from state custody. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Jayne said Wise was very lucky that the fire he set didnt injure or kill anyone. Wises attorney, Susan Lin, meanwhile, said Wise who endured a difficult childhood with parents who were often absent hoped to continue being a caring and engaged father to his four daughters, both while he remains incarcerated and after he is released. A $42 million estate gift from a University of Pennsylvania alumnus will fund financial aid for civic-minded students with a goal of contributing toward society, the school recently announced. William J. Levy, a graduate of both the Wharton School and the Penn Carey Law School who died in 2023 in New York City at age 87, had a strong interest in the arts and targeted his gift toward students in the College of Arts and Sciences, the university said. Including his previous gifts, Levy has donated a total of $50 million to the school for scholarships. Generously establishing the William J. Levy Endowed Scholarship over two decades ago, he shared our belief that service-oriented leadership is crucial to making headway on the great challenges of our time, Penns interim president, J. Larry Jameson, said in a statement. Advertisement The new estate funds will expand the scholarship program, with at least 40 students annually receiving support, the school said. The first awards will go to students this fall. The university receives many estate gifts but very few of this magnitude, a Penn spokesperson said. Levy, who grew up in Pittsburgh, where his family owned the Warren Grocery Co. chain, once worked for the Public Defenders Office in Philadelphia and the U.S. Attorneys Office in Washington, Penn said. He founded Warren-Potomac Inc., a private investment firm. Levy was an avid art collector, especially fond of impressionist artists, who never missed an opportunity to attend scholarship events and meet with students, Penn said. His philanthropy extended beyond Penn, including contributions to various organizations supporting the arts and championing equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. The Bellevue at 200 S. Broad St., as seen on Apr. 4, 2022. The building, housing a hotel and residences, is undergoing a renovation. Read more Restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorows ties to Philadelphia are deep: He attended the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School and its law school in the 1970s, made an early career as a lawyer with what is now Blank Rome, and, for decades, had a vacation house and farm near New Hope. But in his fine-dining career, which stretches back to 1987s opening of China Grill in Manhattan and spans the globe, he has never had a restaurant in Philadelphia. Advertisement This will change later this year, when Chodorow opens Mr. Edison in the Bellevue, part of the landmark Center City buildings multimillion-dollar renovation. Mr. Edison, whose concept Chodorow is keeping close to the vest, will occupy the former Polo Ralph Lauren store on the Walnut Street side. (Last summer, a door in the lobby was briefly labeled Mr. Edison; a plain wall was erected after paparazzo HughE Dillon posted a photo of it.) Chodorow said Mr. Edison is named in tribute to Thomas Edison, who designed the Bellevues lighting for its 1904 opening. He said that a Spanish firm, Clavel Arquitectos, has created a mind-blowing design with a historical connection to the building. Also, he said, the Chodorow farm will supply Mr. Edisons produce, as it does for Jeans, the New York restaurant that Chodorows son Max opened in 2023. Asked why he had never previously opened in Philadelphia, Chodorow said it was primarily to respect the feelings of his sons, Max and Zach, who are also now in the restaurant business. The Philadelphia area was for leisure, Chodorow said. They said, Dad, when youre in Miami, youre always down at the restaurants, or [when youre] in New York, youre always down at the restaurants, he said. Is there a place we can go where you dont have restaurants? (When Max attended Penn, Chodorow said his son told him, OK, Dad. Now you can open a restaurant, so I got a place to go and eat for free, right?) Chodorows affinity for the Bellevue dates back to his law days, when he developed the Suburban Station building with Ronald Rubin, the real estate icon, whose next redevelopment project, in the 1980s, was the Bellevue, known then as the Bellevue Stratford. Chodorow left the Bellevue project, but did rent the roof for the February 1982 Rio-themed engagement party for him and his wife, Linda. (It was decorated with a mock ticket counter, elevators-turned-jetliners, and customs agents.) I always had an affection for that grand property, Chodorow said. When Dean Adler [now redeveloping the Bellevue with Ira Lubert] asked me if I would do the restaurant there, I said sure. He wants to do something new and different. And the stuff I do is generally new and different. Resident and fellow physicians at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia voted against unionizing in December. Residents at the hospital had joined thousands of other physicians in training around the region who announced plans to unionize in November; trainee physicians at several other hospitals have yet to vote on their unions. Read more Resident physicians and fellows at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia have voted against forming a union, a month after more than 3,000 medical residents from around the region announced plans to unionize. In late December, 178 CHOP residents voted in favor of a union and 195 voted against joining a 17-vote margin, said Natalie LaBossier, a second-year pediatrics resident at CHOP who worked to organize the vote. The residents had sought to join the Committee of Interns and Residents, a division of the Service Employees International Union. Advertisement In a statement, a CHOP spokesperson said that the hospital believes the best employee experience is achieved by direct, two-way communication and collaboration and will continue to partner with our residents and fellows to find ways to improve or strengthen that experience. We remain committed to developing positive and productive relationships with all of our workforce members regardless of union status, the spokesperson said. In November, CHOP residents joined resident physicians at Temple University Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Jeffersons Einstein Healthcare Network, and the Delaware-based ChristianaCare to announce plans to unionize. The organizing residents said intense hours, burnout, and a lack of support from higher-ups at their hospitals had spurred them to form unions. CHOP was the first hospital in that cadre to hold a union vote. Residents at the other hospitals are set to vote in mid-January, said Melissa Uribe, a CIR spokesperson. Another group of residents at the University of Pennsylvania health system, which is affiliated with CHOP, successfully voted to unionize in 2023. Ultimately, at CHOP, when the residents are ready to try again, well be here for them, Uribe said. Matt Eiman, a second-year resident in pediatrics at ChristianaCare, said that he had been surprised by the CHOP vote and felt for residents there who deserve a say in their contract and work-life balance. Still, he said, he felt confident about the upcoming vote at his hospital. Its given me some urgency [about] having as wide a reach as possible. Our numbers have shown us this is a very popular cause, and there are a lot of residents and fellows that are in favor of it, he said. But these elections arent guaranteed and were making sure to do everything we can to get the vote out. Campaigning for a union Uribe said that CHOP officials had engaged in anti-union tactics ahead of the vote but did not clarify what those tactics were. LaBossier said that votes are private, so its difficult to know exactly what swayed some residents and fellows toward voting against the union, but said that some of the language employed by CHOP during the campaign was more focused on discouraging fellows from voting yes. Fellows are doctors who have completed residency, the initial portion of a doctors training, and are undergoing additional training in a specific medical specialty, like pediatric endocrinology. Pediatrics is in a difficult time in general due to government disinvestment, LaBossier said, and CHOP really capitalized on trainees fears about future employability in order to discourage unionizing. LaBossier said that while she was disappointed in the outcome of the vote, she said residents who want to unionize will continue to organize. Even since the election result, Ive spoken to several people who feel even more motivated to get involved with our effort, she said. Ive had some conversations with people who were disappointed in themselves, and who asked me when can we try again. How an incoming Trump administration affects union drives The union drive had taken place relatively quickly. The process can typically take years, though some residents had been working towards formally proposing joining a union for some time. At CHOP, LaBossier said, residents organized for well over a year before announcing their plans last fall. Union officials said in November that they wanted to hold union votes at the organizing Philadelphia hospitals before Republicans take control of the White House. CIR president A. Taylor Walker said officials were concerned about President-Elect Donald Trumps attitude toward unionizing graduate students, including medical residents. In 2019, Trumps National Labor Relations Board, presidential appointees who enforce the countrys labor law, proposed that graduate students should not be considered employees. That would mean that graduate students would lose the legal right to unionize, and universities would be free to allow or reject a graduate student union outright without involving the NLRB. In 2021, the NLRB though it was still operating with a majority of Republican appointees announced that it would withdraw the proposal. Currently, the board has two Democratic appointees and one Republican appointee. Youll see Republican presidents install a board that is more pro-management, and youll see Democratic presidents install a board that is more pro-worker. And I think our pro-worker policies over the last four years is why we have been able to double in size at CIR, Walker, who is also the chief resident in family medicine at Massachusetts Cambridge Health Alliance, said in November. Still, Uribe said, its not accurate that the Trump administration is in any way going to hinder our efforts to organize residents, including those at CHOP. Its no secret whats at stake with the NLRB, she said. But were going to move forward regardless of whos in office. A national trend toward unionization More and more residents around the country have begun to join unions in recent years, and about 20% are currently in a union, despite entering a profession that has historically not been part of organized labor. But residents in particular have cited grueling working conditions and relatively low pay in their efforts to unionize. In residency, the final phase of a doctors training, physicians can work up to 80 hours a week for, on average, about $61,000 a year. Thats less than other professionals who require special training, like flight attendants and electricians, the New England Journal of Medicines Resident 360 website reported. Even outside of residency, most doctors are now employed at health systems instead of running their own practices, making collective bargaining more attractive to some including in the Philadelphia region. ChristianaCare attending physicians last year became the regions first group of unionized doctors who have completed their training. Residents at Penn and the Rutgers University health system finalized their first contracts with their health systems this fall. Those successful efforts galvanized residents at CHOP and other health systems, the group said in November. A bicyclist died after a vehicle driver struck him in North Philadelphia early Monday, police said. Police responded to the crash on the 3700 block of North Broad Street just before 2 a.m., where they said the driver of a black Nissan traveling south struck a cyclist who was crossing from the west side of Broad Street to the east side against a red light. The driver of the Nissan remained at the scene and called 911, police said. Advertisement The cyclist, identified as Michael Buie, 51, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. An investigation is ongoing, police said, and is being handled by the departments Crash Investigation Division. Last year, 123 fatal crashes involving vehicles took place in Philly as of Dec. 27, police said, which included 55 pedestrian deaths. According to the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, at least three cyclists were killed in vehicular crashes in 2024. Buie is believed to be the first cyclist killed in Philly in 2025, according to the bicycle coalition. Its especially heavy that as we are still analyzing 2024 fatal crash data, another family is dealing with the tragedy of losing a loved one to traffic violence, the bicycle coalition said in a statement posted to its website, emphasizing that Broad Street has become the most dangerous road in Philadelphia. According to the citys annual Vision Zero report released last month, Broad Street experienced more than one traffic death per month in 2024 greater than any other city street. READ MORE: Broad Street not Roosevelt Boulevard is Phillys most dangerous roadway, says new report This December, as hundreds of Delaware Valley residents flocked into the Elkins Park Post Office to mail those last-minute holiday gifts and Christmas cards, a sight beyond holiday crowds might have caught their attention. Directly across Ashbourne Lane is the iconic Lynnewood Hall, constructed by Peter A.B. Widener the famed Philadelphia industrialist which housed both his family and his art collection in the 19th century. Last week thanks to the Lynnewood Preservation Society I had the opportunity to tour the house, which is celebrating 125 years since its opening in 1899. Advertisement Lynnewood Hall isnt just any historic house in the Philadelphia region. It is one of the most significant Gilded Age mansions extant in the nation. It is the house that sheltered a survivor of the Titanic as she mourned the loss of two family members traveling with her on the ill-fated ship. It served as a place of teaching for Christian leaders and theologians for nearly 70 years and held one of the most significant collections of Western art in America. One of the largest houses in the United States, and a monument to the talent of Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer, it was once known as the last American Versailles. For decades, Lynnewood Hall has been off-limits to the public, accessible only by online video or high-definition photographs. In 2018, two visionaries, Edward Thome and Angie Van Scyoc, formed the Lynnewood Preservation Society to purchase the historic home and open it for occasional tours. I can tell you that neither video nor photo can replicate the feeling of walking across the 1,000-person capacity ballroom and looking up at its spectacularly painted ceiling in person. Or exploring the grounds. The site is still breathtaking in scale, and it is impossible not to imagine the grand parties of the era that once took place inside and out. Plenty of historic sites are restored in the United States each year, but the societys vision was to return a significant portion of Lynnewood Halls 34 acres for the use of Cheltenham Township, as well as to make the house accessible to the public. It isnt merely a restoration, its a revival. Supporting the societys effort to save Lynnewood Hall isnt merely an opportunity, it is, in my opinion, an obligation for anyone who values Philadelphia history. Touring the site 125 years after Wideners grand gala of Dec. 19, 1899, I was able to imagine not only what Lynnewood Hall once was, but what it yet could be. Michael Thomas Leibrandt is a member of the Old York Road and Wissahickon Valley Historical Societies and lives and works in Abington Township. Donald Trump used the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021, to peddle the lies, conspiracy theories, and grievances that helped fuel his looming return to the Oval Office, writes the Editorial Board. Read more Even as a snowstorm paralyzed much of Washington, D.C., on Monday, a joint session of Congress certified President-elect Donald Trumps victory peacefully and without incident. There were no phony claims of a stolen election for months by outgoing President Joe Biden in the lead-up to certification. There were no fake elector schemes or dozens of bogus and failed lawsuits. Advertisement There was no weapon-wielding angry mob storming the U.S. Capitol. Members of Congress did not have to run for their lives. There was no brutal attack on police officers. No calls to hang the vice president. In fact, Trumps opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, presided over a key step in the peaceful transfer of power, just as had been done in every other election for more than two centuries except when Trump lost in 2020. The uneventful and ceremonial ritual on Jan. 6, 2025, stood in stark contrast to the violent and deadly insurrection Trump helped foment four years ago to the day. Trump, along with his allies in Congress and the media, has tried to rewrite the reality of what occurred on Jan. 6, 2021. But that history should not be erased or forgotten. It is a stain America will endure for generations to come. READ MORE: Trump-proofing: Elected leaders must step up to protect vulnerable communities | Editorial Amazingly, Trump used the insurrection which he called a day of love to peddle the lies, conspiracy theories, and grievances that helped fuel his looming return to the Oval Office. In two weeks, Trump will take the oath of office as the first convicted criminal elected president. But he escaped the more serious legal charges, including federal indictments for efforts to overturn the election and stealing classified documents. Trump had many enablers along the way. With no credible evidence, nearly 150 Republicans in the House and Senate voted to overturn the 2020 election results, including many from Pennsylvania. Initially, then-Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) said Trump was practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of that day. But McConnell and most other Republicans in the Senate voted to acquit Trump of inciting the insurrection. A small army of lawyers made millions doled out from campaign donors to defend Trump. In doing so, several of them sullied their careers. Some got indicted and lost their law license, including Americas mayor, Rudy Giuliani. The conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court helped delay Trumps criminal proceedings. The court also blocked efforts by some states to remove him from the 2024 election ballot and granted presidents broad immunity from future criminal prosecution effectively placing Trump and future leaders above the law. Right-wing media outlets and social media platforms, with help from Russia, promoted bogus claims about the 2020 election getting stolen. Fox News founder Rupert Murdoch admitted influential hosts endorsed Trumps lies about election fraud, but did nothing about it. Millions of voters were misled or chose to ignore the facts about the 2020 election. Even worse, many voters backed and emboldened the man who made more than 30,000 false or misleading claims during his previous term in office. READ MORE: Finally, a free and fair election | Editorial To this day, despite repeated lies and amplifications, Trump and his allies have never produced a scintilla of proof to back up their allegations. Several conservative groups eventually admitted they had no evidence to support their lies about election fraud. Even the conservative Cato Institute repudiated efforts to claim the 2020 election was stolen. While many are exhausted from standing up for truth, justice, and democracy, now is not the time to give in. Trumps up is down version of events will be even more dangerous once he returns to office. Sunlight remains the best disinfectant. So does speaking truth to power, as enshrined in the First Amendment. Rest assured, history will be a harsh judge of Trump and anyone who willfully went along with Americas biggest political lie ever. In fact, no rewriting of events by Trump and his allies will undo what everyone saw on Jan. 6, 2021. The facts cannot be changed or ignored. Nor should they be minimized or forgotten. The peaceful transfer of power should remain sacrosanct, even if it means handing the keys to a criminal. Chief Public Safety Director Adam Geer sits between Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel (left) and Managing Director Adam Thiel (right) during graduation ceremonies for the police academy Class #402 of the Philadelphia Police Department and Temple University Police Department in June. Geer was appointed to oversee the new Office of Public Safety. Read more Six months ago, Philadelphias chief public safety director worked out of a cramped Center City office with nothing on the walls. He oversaw a half-dozen offices and programs that were spread across the city government, some of them led by people who worked elsewhere. Today, Adam Geer has a new home base: a bright space overlooking City Hall and adorned with portraits of Civil Rights heroes. And the more than 100 people he manages work just steps away from his door. Advertisement The move was both literal and symbolic for Geer and Philadelphias Office of Public Safety, an agency that a year ago brought the citys disparate public-safety functions under one roof. Geer, whose position was created by City Council to improve cooperation among city leaders, now oversees a variety of programs largely focused on preventing violence. Geer spent much of his first year in the role defining what it would be under new Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. Rather than overseeing the administrative side of the police and fire departments as lawmakers originally pitched it Geer has positioned himself more as a complement to Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and a leader of antiviolence work outside traditional policing. His job was created amid a historic spike in gun violence. Over the last year, the city saw a dramatic reduction in shootings and experienced its largest decline in homicides in at least 50 years. Rates of violence have dropped across the country, and experts say it could be years before they untangle the reasons why. READ MORE: Philly saw a historic drop in murders in 2024. What changed? Geer said in an interview that shooters being arrested is a clear contributor. He also credits the robust web of city-operated antiviolence programs and grassroots community organizations that aim to prevent shootings before they happen. Independent evaluations of these initiatives have produced mixed results: some that aim to engage with potential shooters have been lauded for addressing the citys gun violence epidemic. Other antiviolence programs have lacked oversight or failed to reach their own goals. Geer said he believes the most important indicator of a successful antiviolence program can be challenging to quantify: people who were not shot. I truly believe its responsible in large part with the numbers that were seeing, he said. Interventions with would-be shooters Geer said a key initiative over the past year has been expanding Group Violence Intervention, a partnership between employees in his office and the police department that aims to engage with gang-affiliated individuals or others considered most likely to shoot or be shot. Using a list from police, case workers go to the homes of residents most of them young men and offer them access to city services and job connections. The mothers of people who were fatally shot sometimes accompany caseworkers, and they plead with the individuals to stop the violence. Last year, the city added caseworkers to its roster and made contact with more than 900 at-risk people, Geer said. Thats more than double the previous year. The program, also known as GVI, is a new version of Focused Deterrence, which was first implemented in South Philadelphia more than a decade ago, but was discontinued amid leadership shake-ups. GVI was reinstated under former Mayor Jim Kenneys administration, and University of Pennsylvania researchers wrote in a 2023 report that it helped reduce gun violence among targeted groups by as much as 50%. Geers office in November also launched a new GVI program specifically for youths age 12 to 17, thanks to a $615,000 federal grant. That program will begin in North Philadelphias 22nd Police District, which in recent years has seen some of the citys highest rates of violent crime. Violence prevention programs and grants for community groups When Geer took office, he was tasked with overseeing a grant-making program aimed at supporting grassroots antiviolence organizations, but that was beset by administrative problems. The City Controller found that the rollout was botched. Some organizations were unable to manage the funds. In one high-profile case, a grant was improperly funneled to city police employees. While campaigning for mayor, Parker said she supported the city granting millions of taxpayer dollars to nonprofits and antiviolence groups but would revamp the programs to improve accountability. Geer said the city has added layers of oversight to the process and is providing more guidance to the groups that receive funding. But he said one of the biggest challenges has been quantifying what he said has been a largely positive impact, so the administration secured funding to hire an analyst tasked with measuring the impact. We want to put some science behind it so that we can try and understand in a more realistic, tangible way for the public, Geer said. We can say this $25 million thats going out the door, this has this impact. For example, an organization might receive a small, $1,500 grant to provide an after-school art class to youths considered at risk. Geer acknowledged that people might look at that and say, what does that have to do with violence prevention? But he argued that if the class is held at a time and place away where young people might otherwise be subjected to violence, it may have saved lives. Can progress be sustained? In year two, Geer said his office will look to continue expanding some of its antiviolence programming. Kensington and the open-air drug market in the neighborhood will also be a key focus for the office and the Parker administration, as it was over the last year. Gun violence rates have plummeted in the heart of Kensington, but residents say theyre still awaiting a crackdown on drug traffic. Longer term, Geer said his office will focus on sustaining reduced violence rates across the city through business growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. Philadelphia has for years been considered the poorest large city in America, but Geer said he believes an economic turnaround in the city is closer than we think. I do truly believe in five or 10 years the city is going to be unrecognizable, he said. I do think theres going to be more economic opportunities for folks. I do think crime is going to be lower. I do think that the city is going to be greener. ... We just need to continue to keep our foot on the pedal. All of us. For the fourth straight year, the income that U.S. households needed to comfortably afford payments on the typical home for sale was higher than the income a typical household made. Read more Last year was the second-least affordable year to buy a home since at least 2012, according to a report by Redfin, the online real estate brokerage. Buying a home was only slightly more affordable in 2024 than in 2023. But in both 2024 and 2023, a household making the typical U.S. income would have had to spend about 42% of that income on monthly housing costs to afford the typical home for sale. In 2024, the typical U.S. household made $83,782, and the typical home cost $429,734. Advertisement For the fourth straight year, the income households needed to comfortably afford payments on the typical home was higher than the income a typical household made. Homebuyers would have had to make $116,782 per year in 2024 the highest income level needed since Redfin started keeping track in 2012. For many Americans, buying a home remains more out of reach than ever, and thats unlikely to change anytime soon, Elijah de la Campa, a senior economist at Redfin, said in a statement. READ MORE: Households in the Philly area would need six-figure down payments to comfortably afford a typical home Homes are considered affordable if a household spends no more than 30% of its income on monthly housing costs. Nationally, median monthly housing costs were 30% of income or lower throughout the 2010s, according to Redfin. In the market that Redfin defines as Philadelphia and Delaware Counties and in the market Redfin defines as Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks Counties, the typical household would have had to spend roughly 33% of its income to own the typical home for sale in 2024. So although the region was more affordable than the country as a whole, homes still werent affordable. The countrys slight improvement in affordability from 2023 to 2024 was mostly because of slightly lower average mortgage rates last year, according to Redfin. Home prices are expected to keep rising in 2025 because there arent enough homes for sale to meet demand. So more aspiring homeowners will keep renting instead of entering the market, de la Campa said. Comparing affordability In the region that Redfin defined as Philadelphia and Delaware Counties, the median household income was $72,681 in 2024, and the median home sale price was roughly $281,162. In 2024, homebuyers paid a median of $1,985 per month for a home less than the national median payment of $2,920. The region has one of the lowest monthly housing costs out of the 50 most populous metropolitan areas that Redfin analyzed. Median monthly housing payments were only lower in Pittsburgh, Cleveland, St. Louis, and Detroit. Homebuyers paid the least in Detroit, where the median monthly payment was $1,354. Compare that to the most expensive areas out of the 50 most populous metros. In the San Francisco and San Jose areas, homebuyers paid a median of more than $10,000 per month for homes that cost a median of more than $1.5 million. In the combined markets of Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks Counties, homeowners spent a median of $3,429 per month in 2024. Thats roughly the same as in the Austin, Texas, region and the West Palm Beach, Fla., area. The typical household in the combined market of Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks Counties made $123,187 per year, and the median home sale price there was $477,997. A rig and supply vessel in the Gulf of Mexico, off the coast of Louisiana on April 10, 2011. Read more President Joe Biden on Monday banned all future oil and gas drilling off U.S. coastal waters, including New Jersey, in what he called an effort to protect them from environmental and economic harm. The action comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office in two weeks, though its unlikely to slow U.S. fossil fuel production. Trump is already pledging to reverse the ban. Advertisement The ban applies to all future oil and natural gas leasing, according to an administration statement, along the entire East Coast and eastern Gulf of Mexico, as well as the Pacific Coast and parts of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska. In all, the sweeping ban would apply to 625 million acres of federal waters. President Biden has determined that the environmental and economic risks and harms that would result from drilling in these areas outweigh their limited fossil fuel resource potential, the statement said. With these withdrawals, President Biden is protecting coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and local economies including fishing, recreation, and tourism from oil spills and other impacts of offshore drilling. Although there are no current plans to drill off New Jerseys coast, highly valued for the tourism dollars it generates, Bidens move comes as Trump is widely expected to attempt to roll back environmental protections as he did during his last administration. A recent New York Times analysis of federal campaign data showed that fossil fuel interests contributed about $75 million to Trumps presidential campaign, the Republican National Committee, and other committees. For the offshore fossil fuel drilling ban, Biden used authority granted by the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. The ban has no expiration date and so would prohibit all future oil and natural gas leasing. The administration said the ban would apply to the entire East Coast, or 334 million acres of the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf from Canada to the southern tip of Florida, and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. There are currently no active oil and natural gas leases in the waters. Can Trump undo it? E&E News, the energy and environmental news site run by Politico, reported that Bidens ban wont likely slow fossil fuel production. However, it could create a legal battle with the oil industry, which is already pushing for a reversal. And it wont be easy for Trump to undo when he takes office Jan. 20. Revoking the ban would probably require an act of Congress, which is now led by a slim Republican majority and closely divided along partisan lines, E&E News said. And the Associated Press reported that Trump on Monday declared to conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt that, after he is inaugurated, the ban will, be changed on day one. I can change it immediately. I have the right to unban it. In 2018, Trump backed off a plan to allow drilling off the coast of Florida after pressure from then-Gov. Rick Scott, now a Republican senator from the state. At the time, New Jersey officials also joined in the pressure, fearing that oil drilling could come to there. Biden has been a staunch backer of offshore wind along the East Coast, leading some Republican-aligned groups, as well as others, to line up against the projects, citing what they believe is a potential for environmental harm, especially in New Jersey. Impact on New Jersey New Jersey is still pushing ahead with plans to develop large-scale offshore wind energy to be produced by hundreds of turbines, although the economics of the projects has taken a turn for the worse over the past several years. Regardless, in October, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a Clean Air Permit to Atlantic Shores LLC for the building of two offshore wind farms to be located 8.7 miles from Atlantic Citys shore. The area is regulated by the federal government and required the permit, which allows for construction of up to 200 wind turbines that could generate 2,800 megawatts of electrical power, or the equivalent of one million homes. The permit also allows for up to eight substations to collect and transport the electricity. Its unclear whether Trump might try to scuttle New Jerseys wind program. He could seek to roll back renewable energy tax cuts favorable to the wind industry or pose other challenges. Some are calling Bidens drilling ban largely symbolic. As president, Trump put in place a drilling moratorium for much of the southern East Coast. And a five-year federal plan that runs through June 30, 2029, does not include any potential oil and gas lease sales in New Jersey. However, U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D., N.J.), the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said in a press briefing Monday that Bidens executive action cements a ban into place permanently, rather than leaving it open to future Congressional or presidential plans. Pallone doubts that Trump would be able to reverse the ban, given opposition he would face from Republican governors and elected officials in coastal states. I dont see any scenario where it gets overturned, Pallone said, noting, I just dont think the public politics are there. This article was produced by Capital & Main. It is published here with permission. As President-elect Donald Trump takes direct aim at federal climate policy, states and their attorneys general are preparing to fight back. In California, the governor has asked legislators for $25 million to fight off any effort by Trump to upend the states climate-friendly initiatives. In Washington, voters doubled down on the states landmark climate policy and Jay Inslee the outgoing governor said his successor is set to work hard to protect the state from a fossil fuel-friendly president. Advertisement But in Pennsylvania, one of the largest energy producers in the country where voters narrowly voted for Trump, its unclear just how stiff that resistance will be if the incoming president follows through with his vows to shred President Joe Bidens environmental agenda and cancel funds for clean-energy projects. One clue might be found in the person voters elected as the states new attorney general Dave Sunday, a Republican who was largely silent on environmental issues during the run-up to the election but drew on a large infusion of money tied to the fossil fuel industry to propel his campaign. And while Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro took on the oil and gas industry and then-President Trump while he was attorney general, one of Sundays first moves was to name a noted oil and gas booster to his transition team. State campaign finance records and Internal Revenue Service filings show that Sunday accepted direct contributions from a tax-exempt association tied to the fossil fuel industry called the Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA). About $550,000 in direct contributions flowed to Sunday through the Keystone Prosperity PAC, a political action committee created by RAGA. In 2024, RAGA received at least $1.6 million from fossil fuel and petrochemical companies, utilities, and trade groups, including ExxonMobil, Chevron Phillips Chemical, the National Mining Association, the American Gas Association, and the American Petroleum Institute. The Republican Attorneys General Association also received contributions from smaller fossil fuel interests with Pennsylvania-specific operations. Diversified Oil & Gas Co., which owns a slew of low-producing oil and gas wells, many in Pennsylvania, and which has come under fire for its financial reporting mechanisms, donated $15,000 to RAGA in June. Equitrans, which recently merged with Pittsburgh-based natural gas company EQT, contributed $50,000 in April. RAGA then donated funds to Sunday in two payments: $400,000 in July and $150,000 in September. These marked the two largest donations to Sundays campaign last year, according to data through Sept. 24. RAGAs early engagement in Pennsylvania paid dividends and proved to be one of our wisest investments to date, Republican Attorneys General Association executive director Peter Bisbee said in a statement following Sundays victory. The organization, he said, made a record investment in Pennsylvania this year. Sunday also received a handful of direct contributions from oil- and gas-related entities, including $10,000 from the Koch Industries PAC; $1,500 from the Pennsylvania Grade Crude Oil Coalition; $1,000 from midstream oil and gas firm Energy Transfer; and $1,000 from the Pennsylvania Coal PAC. While we Pennsylvanians go about our lives, we hope our government is working to protect us from drinking and breathing toxic chemicals, said Michael Bagdes-Canning, a member of the Pennsylvania Action on Climate, a grassroots coalition of climate and anticorruption advocates. But in Harrisburg, the fossil fuel industries are busy, behind the scenes and undercover, converting their enormous wealth into the political power they need to protect and enlarge that wealth. Capital & Main reached out to Sundays campaign and did not hear back by publication time. Among those Sunday tapped to help in his transition as the states first Republican attorney general in 12 years is former Gov. Tom Corbett, who became known for his pro-drilling stance during the states fracking boom. Prior to his tenure as governor, Corbett served as attorney general and, while in office, accepted gifts tied to the oil and gas industry. The climate battle lines From California to Pennsylvania, the role of the states top law enforcement official could be critical for states that intend to fight Trumps promises to strip away regulations and initiatives designed to speed the transition away from fossil fuels. When people who care about the environment and climate lose the presidency to someone who obviously is about as radically against action on environment and climate as you could possibly be, then we turn to states, said Joseph Romm, senior research fellow at the University of Pennsylvania Center for Science, Sustainability, and the Media. As some line up to litigate against Trumps policies, as well as corporations that violate laws in their states, the Republican attorneys general who are active in RAGA are likely to take a different tack. The Republican Attorneys General Association was established in 1999 with the aim of electing Republicans to attorney general seats across the nation and defending the rule of law, its website states. The organization currently has 28 member states, though Pennsylvania is not yet one of them. Shapiro was attorney general until 2022, and Democrat Michelle Henry assumed office in an acting role in January 2023. She opted not to run for office in 2024, which opened the gates for a crowded primary. RAGA has spearheaded legal challenges to major environmental rules over the course of Bidens term. It also led a robocall campaign four years ago urging attendance at the Jan. 6 rally in Washington, which devolved into the attack on the Capitol. The organization receives contributions from industry and companies of all sizes, many that earn invitations to national conferences where they can get face time with attorneys general. Access to the conferences is tiered by the amount a donor gives. In a 2018 list of the perks, $15,000 earned a company two passes, while $125,000 earned five passes, invitations to dinners and club events, and the opportunity to sit on panels, among other rewards. What you have is state attorneys general who arent actually ever even assessing what the ordinary people in the state want, said Lisa Graves, founder of True North Research, a political watchdog research firm. Instead [they] are rubbing elbows, hanging out, going on these little mini-vacations with these industry lobbyists who get exclusive opportunities to bend their ear. The Republican Attorneys General Association does not file records of its contributions to the Federal Election Commission, but to the IRS. These donations can then be given to individual candidates in contentious attorney general races across states, thus obscuring their origins. Theres little way for an outsider to know if one company intended for its RAGA donation to go to a particular attorney general candidate, for instance. I think theyre trying to obfuscate their involvement, Romm said of companies that donate money through RAGA. In 2017, the Wall Street Journal reported that, when giving to the counterpart Democratic and Republican governors associations, which function similarly to RAGA, donors have the ability to informally earmark their donations for a specific candidate. RAGA is one tentacle of the effort by right-wing billionaires and the fossil fuel industry to capture our courts and government to the benefit of big corporate interests, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D., R.I.) told the Guardian in August. Keystone Prosperity PACs donations to Sunday represented around 26% of his overall direct contributions and 83% of his direct contributions from political action committees. Spotlight PA reported in October that Keystone Prosperity PAC also spent $5.4 million running ads on Sundays behalf, calling his opponent, Eugene DePasquale, out of touch and chiding him for his stances on immigration and police reform. The PACs spending levels raised alarm bells within the DePasquale campaign that Sunday had not been forthcoming about the sources of the donations. DePasquale, for his part, received around $1.6 million from the Democratic Attorneys General Association, which received contributions from some of the same fossil fuel entities that donated to RAGA, albeit in smaller volumes. Where the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers gave $92,500 to RAGA, for instance, it gave $25,000 to DAGA. Where the American Gas Association gave $40,000 to RAGA, to DAGA it gave just $15,000. Sundays campaign platform offered no indication of a specific tack he will take on climate. The Harrisburg native campaigned primarily on a tough on crime platform to reduce prison recidivism and address the states opioid crisis through a philosophy of accountability and redemption. DePasquale once served as deputy secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and, in 2019, authored a report that found that climate change had cost Pennsylvania hundreds of millions of dollars per year. That made the attorney generals race in Pennsylvania one of the most important for climate in the nation, according to E&E News. So where do state environmental groups go from here? Were going to sort of remain positive and optimistic, until we have reason not to, said Jen Quinn, Sierra Club Pennsylvanias legislative and political director, of Sundays election. Even so, she said, having an environmental champion at the helm of the attorney generals office might have served as a deterrent to polluters its yet unclear whether Sunday will fill that role. Just having someone in there that is going to be strong on certain issues, I think, is helpful, Quinn said. If were seeing a lot of special-interest money going to support him, then you just have to wonder, what are the long-term implications of that? Copyright 2024 Capital & Main Based in London, Farrup is proud to join AXIS as head of global markets. "I feel privileged to join an already strong team within Global Markets and am confident that together we can build on the positive momentum that already exists while providing our talent with a strong and vibrant culture that is conducive to success." Encore Group is a retail insurance brokerage firm based in Waterloo, Ontario, catering primarily to the manufacturing, construction and financial institutions industries. Encore Groups Joe Dalton, Scott Heaman and their team will continue to operate in their current location under the direction of Dave Partington, head of Gallaghers Canadian retail property and casualty brokerage operations. The statute does not purport to dictate or otherwise regulate the content of the cancellation notice that must be sent to the insured and contains no suggestion that the required notice to the chairperson satisfies the insurers obligation to properly and unambiguously notify its insured of the cancellation, the court said. The acquisition was first announced in November 2024. Carpenter Turner, established in 2013 as a joint venture between Guy Carpenter and local management, has served clients across Greece, Cyprus, the Balkans, and Turkey. The partnership combined regional market expertise with Guy Carpenters global analytical resources and access to international markets. Additionally, there is drop-down cover of US$150 million, which reduces IAGs retention on the first two events to US$236 million. This is equivalent to 67.5% of US$350 million, with an extra premium payable if the drop-down cover is activated for a first event. The program also provides specific drop-down cover for a second event in New Zealand, and third and fourth event covers. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has upheld a $20 million jury award in a medical malpractice case that found three medical professionals caused a patient to have an above-the-knee amputation of his leg. In 2023, a jury found negligence on the part of a registered nurse, a physician assistant, and a nurse practitioner at Lowell General Hospital in their treatment of 38-year old Steven Luppold. Luppold had made several visits to the hospital in 2015 complaining of foot, leg and back pain. The jury found that the three failed to detect and treat blood clots and that his amputation was the result of their negligence. Only one of three defendants found liable the registered nurse appealed, arguing that the trial judge made several errors. Among her points on appeal, the appellant registered nurse claimed that the trial judge abused his discretion in not allowing cross-examination regarding a high-low settlement agreement entered into by the two other defendants in the case. She argued that the agreement led one of the other defendants to change his testimony to be more in agreement with the plaintiff and more critical of her. A high-low agreement caps a defendants liability while ensuring that the plaintiff receives a minimum payment amount, regardless of the outcome. The high court noted that the general rule is that settlement agreements are not admissible to prove either liability or the amount of a claim. According to the court, this is the general rule because settlement of litigation is to be encouraged, and disclosing such agreements risks skewing jurors required analysis of the parties and their respective liability, leading jurors, for example, to consider such settlement agreements as an admission of liability or alternatively to conclude that a liability determination is not necessary because the injured plaintiff has already been compensated. The high court found that the record did not include any evidence that the other defendant changed his testimony, or why it would change based on a high-low agreement. The appellant also took issue with parts of the jury instruction, the denial of her motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict, and the assessment of prejudgment interest on damages awarded to the plaintiff for future pain and suffering. The Supreme Court justices found no errors by the trial judge, although they did acknowledge that a minor change in the jury instructions in medical malpractice cases is in order for future cases. The opinion written by Justice Scott L. Kafker concludes that the trial judges jury instructions more than sufficiently communicated the necessity and meaning of but-for causation. The appellant had complained about additional language the judge used that went beyond the model instruction. However, the high court said that the fact that the trial judge, in keeping with the model jury instructions, opted to use terminology to further explain but-for causation in language that may be more easily understood by jurors does not in any way negate the fundamentally correct legal principle the trial judge communicated. The high court said that although it thinks the existing model jury instructions are clear, a minor revision would make the point even more expressly. Accordingly, a sentence in the current model jury instructions should be modified, as indicated by the underlined text, changing the word and to the phrase meaning that. Thus the model instruction is changed from: If [defendants] negligence had an impact on [plaintiffs] injuries (by causing them or worsening them), then it caused those injuries. But if the negligence had no impact on [plaintiffs] injuries and the same harm would have happened anyway, then [defendant] did not cause the injuries. to: If [defendants] negligence had an impact on [plaintiffs] injuries (by causing them or worsening them), then it caused those injuries. But if the negligence had no impact on [plaintiffs] injuries, meaning that the same harm would have happened anyway, then [defendant] did not cause the injuries. Topics Massachusetts A Maine man out on bail for an April 2024 arson charge has been charged with a new arson incident. According to officials, on the evening of January 5, the Maine State Fire Marshal (FMO) assisted with an investigation of an explosion in the back of a pickup truck parked in Swanville. Troopers with the Maine State Police received information and the location of a person of interest, identified as 20-year-old Patrick Kane of Topsham. Officials said police officers were able to detain Kane for questioning by the fire investigators. Simultaneously, investigators responded to the site in Swanville to conduct an origin and cause investigation. Through multiple interviews, investigators said they gathered probable cause to arrest and charge Kane with arson and violating conditions of release. At the time, police said Kane was out on bail for an arson charge that the FMO investigated last April. Kane and three others were arrested in connection with three fires in Woolwich and Dresden. Officials said Kane was taken into custody and transported to the Waldo County Jail, where he was denied bail. He will be held pending a court appearance on the new charges. No other information was made available. The incident remains under investigation. Topics Auto Insurance brokers Aon plc, Guy Carpenter and WTW announced they each have completed previously announced mergers and acquisitions. Aons acquisition of Griffiths & Armour, which was first announced in November 2024, officially completed on Jan. 1, 2025. Aon said the deal supports its strategy to expand its regional presence in the UK and Ireland. Griffiths & Armour, a UK-based insurance broker, will now trade as Griffiths & Armour, an Aon company. Now a part of Aon, Griffiths & Armour will provide clients with a greater breadth of solutions for clients across both Aon and Griffiths & Armour with complementary strengths that create a platform for further growth. With more than 200 employees, Griffiths & Armour is known for its specialist expertise in professional indemnity insurance and strength in general insurance broking. As part of the acquisition, Aon said it is committed to Griffiths & Armours Liverpool office at Princes Dock and its strong team in Liverpool, Manchester, Dublin and London. Guy Carpenter Acquisition Guy Carpenter announced on Jan. 7 that it had completed the acquisition of the remaining 51.5% stake of Carpenter Turner, an Athens-based regional leader in the reinsurance broking and advisory business. The deal was first announced in November 2024. With immediate effect, Carpenter Turners CEO, Alexander Turner, becomes CEO, Guy Carpenter Greece, reporting to Julian Enoizi, CEO, Guy Carpenter Europe. Now operating as Guy Carpenter Greece, the combined business will deliver Guy Carpenters comprehensive range of global capabilities, solutions, and advice including treaty and facultative reinsurance, data and analytics, strategic advisory, and capital markets solutions to clients across the Greek and Cypriot markets, as well as the Balkans and Turkey. WTW Completes Sale of TRANSACT WTW has completed the sale of TRANZACT to GTCR, a leading private equity firm, and Recognize, a leading digital services investor. The deal was first announced in October 2024. Completing the sale of TRANZACT is a meaningful milestone in sharpening our strategic focus on our core offerings, said Carl Hess, WTWs chief executive officer, in a statement issued on Jan. 2. This divestiture demonstrates our commitment to optimizing our portfolio, further enabling us to accelerate performance and enhance efficiency to deliver substantial value over time. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions New Markets Aon McDonalds Corp. is revamping its approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, becoming the latest large company to change its strategy as the once-ubiquitous goals come under pressure from conservative advocates. The company will no longer set aspirational representation goals and will instead continue to embed inclusion practices into its day-to-day business, the burger chain said in a post on its website. It will also retire a DEI pledge in its supply chain in favor of a more integrated discussion with suppliers about inclusion as it relates to business performance. Additionally, the companys diversity team will now be called the Global Inclusion Team. McDonalds said its commitment to inclusion is steadfast. McDonalds shares dropped 0.9% on Monday. The stock fell 2.2% last year. Companies across the US have increasingly retreated from the DEI targets they implemented after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Following the Supreme Courts ban on affirmative action in college admissions, legal challenges to corporate diversity programs that favor minority groups have also made executives review such initiatives. President-elect Donald Trump, a vocal critic of DEI policies, has promised to root out the practices from the federal government. Anti-DEI crusader Robby Starbuck said he contacted McDonalds Friday to ask about its diversity programs but didnt get a response. On Monday, he claimed victory in a post on X. The company said that the changes had been under consideration over recent months and were the result of a variety of factors, including the Supreme Court decision and the evolving landscape around DEI in the US. Shifting Landscape The changes at McDonalds are similar to modifications made at other companies pressured by Starbuck, including changes at Walmart Inc. and most recently at Nissan Motor Co. In all, he has claimed victories at more than 15 companies, including Toyota Motor Corp., Ford Motor Co. and Harley-Davidson Inc. The Chicago-based company will continue to report demographic information regarding its board, employees and suppliers in its annual impact report. It said it focuses on internal efforts to support building a diverse employee, applicant and supplier pipeline, and a commitment to pay equity. McDonalds added it engages with employee and franchisee groups. For workers, that includes networks for working parents, LGBTQ+ people and women. The companys latest impact report said 33% of its corporate staff in the US at the senior director level or above came from underrepresented groups. Meanwhile, about a third of franchisees were Asian, Black or Hispanic. McDonalds removed the term ESG from parts of its website in 2023, when environmental, social and governance initiatives were attracting more criticism from conservative policymakers. In 2022, the companys investors voted in favor of a proposal calling for an independent audit of its civil-rights policies. Last year, McDonalds released the results of the study, conducted by WilmerHale, which said that, among other findings, the company had made admirable progress toward its representation goals for gender and underrepresented groups. Efforts to promote diversity in its company-operated restaurants, which make up about 5% of the total, are less developed than its efforts to support its corporate workforce and McDonalds is working to develop its policy there, according to the report. In 2021, McDonalds pledged to boost diversity among its franchisees as well as increase spending with suppliers owned by women and minorities. The same year, the company settled a lawsuit that accused of discrimination by Black franchisees in Tennessee. Photo: Photographer: Krisztian Bocsi/Bloomberg Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Almost five years after Florida lawmakers clamped restrictions on assignment-of-benefits agreements and two years after they effectively outlawed AOBs altogether, state appeals courts may have finally put an end to one creative way that had been used in attempts to get around the law. Florida insurance industry advocates said some players, though, will likely continue to seek new mechanisms to skirt the laws that took away what was once a highly lucrative business model for a number of contractors and policyholder attorneys. Im sure theyll still come up with a way to try and get around the statutes, said Tiffany Roddenberry, an attorney with the Holland & Knight law firm who was involved in two recent AOB appeals. But at least on this, the appeals courts have come out against it and are in agreement. In the most recent decision, Floridas 5th District Court of Appeals late last week upheld a Marion County judges ruling that an organization known as Holding Insurance Companies Accountable (HICA) had no standing to sue Tampa-based American Integrity Insurance Co. The case was one of several HICA had pursued for years against American Integrity and against Security First Insurance, two of the largest insurers in the state. It all began in 2019, as the insurance litigation crisis in the state worsened. The Florida Legislature that spring approved House Bill 7065, which became the landmark statute 627.7152 and put new limits on AOBs in an attempt to reduce lawsuits. HICA argued in the appeal that it was not a contractor, only a service that advocated on behalf of homeowners. The AOB law, including its rules requiring an itemized listing of damage to the property, signed agreements, notices of intent to file suit, provisions to allow insureds to rescind the agreements, limits on attorney fees, and other provisions, did not apply, the organization said. Leonard Caruso, a homeowner in The Villages who had sustained some wind damage to his roof, had filed a claim and hired Nolands Roofing Inc. to make the repairs. Caruso signed a directive to pay, essentially instructing his insurer, American Integrity, to pay the roofer. He also signed an AOB contract with HICA, which calls itself a business that helps enforce homeowners rights under their insurance policies, the appellate court explained. But the courts held that HICA principals had pledged to give recovery from the lawsuits to Nolands Roofing, its chosen contractor. That is the same as an AOB, the trial and appellate court judges noted. As the trial court found, this mandatory pass-through of benefits from HICA to Nolands Roofing places the assignment within the broad reach of section 627.7152, Judge Harvey Jay wrote in the 5th DCAs Jan. 3 opinion. Even though HICA will not personally scale Carusos house to repair his roof, it is seeking funds to facilitate those repairs. The Florida Legislature in 2019 had mandated that AOBs comply with all provisions of the assignments law. And because the HICA assignment agreement did not do that, it is invalid and unenforceable, the court noted. The ruling followed similar recent decisions: one by the 5th DCA in December in another HICA suit filed against American Integrity; one in May involving American Integrity; and another in February 2024, by the 2nd DCA, involving Security First. The 2nd District Court also in 2022 ruled against another contractor, Richie Kidwells Air Quality Assessors, in yet another American Integrity case. The court found that Air Qualitys agreement with a homeowner was, in fact, an AOB and did not comply with the 2019 law, despite Kidwells arguments that it was an assessment of damage, not an assignment of benefits. Perhaps seeing the futility of pursuing further appeals, HICA in December tried to drop its appeal of the Caruso suit. But the 5th DCA refused to accept the dismissal because the issue presented is one of importance and for which a published decision would be helpful, the judges noted, citing the precedent of a 2016 court ruling. The recent appellate decisions are considered significant victories for insurance companies that have battled AOB suits for years, said William Large, president of the Florida Justice Reform Institute. Large and Roddenberry penned amicus curiae briefs in two of the 2024 appeals, on behalf of the insurance industry. This appeal presents an issue of paramount importance to Floridas property insurance industry: ensuring the application of legislative reforms designed to prevent abuse of assignments of benefits, reads the amicus brief in the December 5th DCA HICA appeal, decided Dec. 23, 2024. AOBs may have started as a way to make it easier for storm-stricken homeowners to leave the hurricane restoration and insurance recovery work to others. But by the mid-2010s, several contractors and their attorneys had learned to game the system and take advantage of one-way attorney fees, generating thousands of unnecessary lawsuits against insurers and abusing the legal system, Large and others have argued. Studies have confirmed those abuses, and underlined further that AOBs were one of the driving forces of insurance-related litigation in Florida since 2000, the Justice Reform Institutes brief noted. The Institutes own 2019 study, authored by industry consultants and lobbyists Mark Delegal and Ashley Kalifeh, said the number of lawsuits brought by AOB holders had increased by 16,000% in the two decades since 2020. The recent appeals were expected after the 2019 AOB law was adopted, and it has taken five years for courts to nail down the full reach of the statute, Large noted. This means insurers can now know the extent of the law for actuarial purposes. Its unlikely the HICA suits will be appealed to the state Supreme Court. And although Florida lawmakers in 2022 in a special legislative session specifically put an end to assignments of benefits, the multiple lawsuits by Holding Insurance Companies Accountable shows the lengths that some contractors will go to try and get around the statutes, attorneys said. It always surprises me the imagination that some of these people have, Large said. And in instead of AOBs, some restoration companies continue to pursue similar agreements under the name of directives to pay. The 5th DCA addressed that issue only in passing in the Jan. 3 opinion. I do not think this decision was so much a commentary on directions to pay as it is on what qualifies as an assignment of benefits under FS 627.7152, said south Florida attorney Michael Packer, of the Marshall Dennehey law firm. I think the 5th DCA, following the lead of the 2nd DCA, is sending a message that they are not going to look favorably on these attempts to circumvent the requirements of the 2019 AOB statute. Photo: In January 2018 more than 125 insurance agents from across Florida, along with members of the Consumer Protection Coalition, marched to the Florida Capitol to highlight the need for AOB reform. (Colin Hackley photo) Topics Florida Just days after convicted murderer Alex Murdaugh was ordered to pay almost $15 million to Nautilus Insurance Co., his friend and co-conspirator is set to start trial in a civil suit brought by Nautilus for his role in the alleged fraud. Prominent South Carolina attorney Murdaugh, in a sensational case that had been followed worldwide, was convicted in 2023 of killing his wife and son. He also pleaded guilty to 27 counts of financial crimes that came as part of a violent, downward spiral that also included the death of his familys longtime housekeeper. Last week, after Murdaugh admitted conspiring with his friend and fellow South Carolina injury attorney Cory Fleming to defraud Nautilus, a court ordered Murdaugh to pay $14.8 million in damages to the insurance company. Now, Fleming, who also pleaded guilty to helping Murdaugh steal millions from the insurance settlement, begins trial in Charleston in the federal civil suit over the same fraud, according to local news reports. The Murdaughs housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield, reportedly fell to her death on the steps of the familys hunting camp in 2018. Murdaugh claimed his dogs tripped the woman and he convinced her family to file a claim against his umbrella liability policy. When Nautilus, a W.R. Berkley company, defended Murdaugh and paid $3.8 million on the claim, Murdaugh and Fleming then siphoned most of the proceeds for their personal use, court documents allege. Nautilus attorneys have argued that the insurer was injured and deceived, and the excess and surplus carrier is accusing Fleming of civil conspiracy and negligence. Flemings legal team has said that Nautilus had time to investigate the claim and never found evidence of fraud, WCSC TV news has reported. But the Charleston Post and Courier newspaper reported in June that a Nautilus insurance agent and two attorneys had raised suspicions about the Satterfield claims. Those concerns were revealed in federal court documents and in emails obtained by the newspaper. Still, the agent said it would be difficult to prove fraud, and the carrier settled with Satterfields estate. After the criminal prosecutions of Murdaugh and Fleming, Nautilus had the evidence it needed and filed suit. Flemings trial began Monday and is expected to last less than a week, news sites have reported. The Nautilus amended complaint can be seen here. Murdaughs umbrella policy is here. Photo: Fleming at his sentencing in Beaufort, South Carolina, in 2023. (AP Photo/James Pollard) Topics Lawsuits A former insurance agent plead guilty to stealing premium from a premium finance company. Formerly licensed insurance agent Tonja Van Roy, 59, who currently resides in Las Vegas, but operated an insurance agency based in Northridge, California, pleaded guilty today to one federal count of wire fraud after a California Department of Insurance investigation revealed that she had stolen more than $3.7 million from a premium finance company named AFCO Credit Corporation. The investigation was initiated after the CDI received a complaint from the company, AFCO, that Van Roy had committed insurance premium financing fraud on the company. The complaint alleged Van Roy submitted fictitious loan applications through AFCOs loan system, which prompted AFCO to send premium funding payments to Van Roy. The investigation reportedly revealed that from January of 2021 through December of 2023, Van Roy created and submitted dozens of fraudulent finance agreement forms to AFCO that deceived AFCO into believing Van Roy had sold insurance policies to her clients, and that those clients were applying for a loan from AFCO to pay the premiums for those policies. AFCO reportedly approved the loans noted on the fraudulent finance agreement forms, and then deposited the loan proceeds into Van Roys trust account via electronic funds transfer. AFCO believed Van Roy would forward the loan proceeds to the insurance carrier noted on the loan application. Almost all of the information noted on the fraudulent finance agreement forms was false. For example, the forms contained fictitious insurance policy numbers as well as forged electronic signatures for fictitious insureds. In addition, the forms noted a total of only two different addresses for dozens of different insureds, and both of those addresses are for homes rented by Van Roy. In total, Van Roy received roughly $3.7 million in stolen payments from AFCO as a result of all of the fraudulent finance agreement forms she submitted to AFCO. Van Roy reportedly then used the stolen money to purchase extravagant items for herself and her family members. Since the AFCO loans required repayment within one year, some of the initial loans were repaid by Van Roy. However, the initial fraudulent loans were repaid with the funds Van Roy received from the subsequent fraudulent loans, similar to the pattern seen in a Ponzi scheme. After accounting for Van Roys repayment of some of the initial fraudulent loans, Van Roy currently owes AFCO approximately $1.8 million. The case was prosecuted by the Major Frauds Section of the United States Attorneys office in Los Angeles. Van Roy is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on March 31. Topics California Agencies Fraud VANCOUVER, BC - January 7, 2025 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Defense Metals Corp. ("Defense Metals" or the "Company") (TSX-V: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. This news is paid advertisement/ news disseminated on behalf of/issued on behalf of Defense Metals Corp. 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: alex@defensemetals.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 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. Defense Metals (TSX-V: DEFN.V) (OTCQB: DFMTF) is a featured mining stock on Investorideas.com More info on DEFN at Investorideas.com Visit: https://www.investorideas.com/CO/DEFN/ Get news alerts on this company! Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investment involves risk and possible loss of investment. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Contact each company directly regarding content and press release questions. Disclosure this DEFN news is a paid featured annual mining stock on investorideas.com - learn more about costs and services https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp About Investorideas.com https://www.investorideas.com/About/ Sign up for free stock news alerts at Investorideas.com https://www.investorideas.com/Resources/Newsletter.asp The mother of a 22-year-old man with paranoid schizophrenia and autism who absconded from an acute psychiatric unit on Christmas Day says she is devastated and broken about his situation. A Garda missing persons alert was issued for the man after he absconded at about 5.30pm on Christmas Day. He was found in a different hospital more than 10 miles away on the afternoon of St Stephens Day. He was subsequently returned to the psychiatric unit in the first hospital. His mother said: I myself searched for him all through the night on Christmas night, entering parks, green areas, outbuildings, churches all throughout the city centre, any water areas etc, eventually collapsing at 7am as morning arose. He had spent all night out in the cold in pyjamas. We feared the worst as the morning went on. She said she was relieved when he was eventually traced to the second hospital but added it was unknown how he got there as there was no public transport on Christmas Day and he had no money with him. She believes he walked several miles and is grateful the weather was mild on Christmas night and into St Stephens Day. She said her son needed to be in a secure supervised service suited to his needs, instead of a psychiatric unit. She is concerned he will become institutionalised in his current setting and is also concerned he was able to abscond. The man has paranoid schizophrenia and an autism diagnosis, and is visually impaired. He has been in the same setting for more than two years. The Irish Examiner previously highlighted the case in October. His family is among up to 400 being represented by one legal firm in relation to medical negligence claims arising out of inappropriate mental health treatment. Because of the severity of his illnesses, his mother is unable to care for him in her own home, and went to court to seek a domestic violence order against him in August 2022, during which the sitting judge granted her a protection order. The judge described his case as one of the saddest cases I have ever seen in this court. The judge told the mother it was "beyond shocking" she had to "seek recourse in the family courts" to protect both herself and her son. The man's 2019 diagnosis of autism was followed by "challenging and sometimes violent behaviours within his mother's home, which resulted in her having to obtain a safety order against him", according to a letter forwarded to the HSE's legal team by his mother's legal team. A HSE report in 2020 described her son as a "vulnerable young adult" with a recent history of "aggressive, unpredictable and disinhibited behaviour and very slow response to medication may increase the risk of violence". When her son became too old for Camhs mental health services, she was told he would have to go to the UK for a suitable place. However, she refused to allow that to happen and the only option was to place him in the unit he remains in now. At one stage, an offer for a place in a supported living service was found but although costings were supplied to the HSE, he was not accommodated there. Subsequently, the service advised its facilities were not adequate for the needs of the young man. His mother and her legal team are adamant he does not have the medical needs to remain in the psychiatric unit. A spokesman for HSE Dublin and Midlands said: Unfortunately, we are unable to comment on individual cases due to confidentiality and data protection policies. However, I can assure you that every effort is made to provide appropriate care and support to patients within our services, and we are committed to ensuring their safety and wellbeing. - If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services. Authorities believe that a recent murder in Ireland was motivated by violent jihadist radicalisation, the Irish Examiner has learned. It is thought to be the first murder in Ireland linked to radical Islamist terrorism. Details of the death cannot be provided as proceedings are under way in the case. The development follows collaboration between security services here and in another jurisdiction. The suspected motivation behind this murder, which happened in recent years, has not become public knowledge before. It is the second attack believed to be motivated by online jihadist radicalisation in the country. Details of the previous unrelated case are known and did not involve a fatality. Jihadist attacks are extremely rare in Ireland compared to most European countries, and counter-terrorism efforts here mostly relate to the financing of terrorism committed abroad. The New Years Day terror attack in New Orleans has again highlighted the issue of online jihadist radicalisation across the world, including in Ireland. Experts told the Irish Examiner that greater political and financial resources need to be put into national security, including dealing with online radicalisation and linked issues of disinformation and online hate. Sources said this is to try to deal with jihadist radicalisation, but also the growing threat in recent years of far-right radicalisation in Ireland. Awareness of signs Where radicalisation in the past would take time, now the threat is the speed radicalisation is happening online, one security source said. That is very difficult to stop given the largely unregulated social media. The source said there is a need to raise awareness in education, health, social services, sport, and religious groups, of radicalisation and possible signs to look out for, and provide a contact point with gardai. Security analyst and former army officer Declan Power agreed, stating: Personal radicalisation is much harder for law enforcement or intelligence agencies to detect or monitor. The early warners or detectors are the community teachers, family, friends, and coaches who may note a change in temperament or disposition of a subject. "National security is not always about the gardai or military. We need to broaden this out and include people working in education and health. We need to be more imaginative. Mr Power sees potential in proposals in the Fianna Fail election manifesto of setting up a new department of domestic affairs and the establishment of a new national intelligence agency. He said: We need a more rounded vision, beyond the green [military] and blue [gardai], with the right department and a different culture. The number of dangerously defective cars being driven on Irish roads has reached a record level, with more than 128,000 vehicles being classified as fail dangerous when submitted for a NCT last year. Figures published by the National Car Testing Service show a total of 128,548 cars were found to be unroadworthy to a dangerous level while being checked at a NCT test centre during 2024. The number of dangerously defective cars represented 7.42% of all vehicles checked by the NCTS in 2024. It is the highest level of unroadworthy cars detected in recent years, with the proportion of fail dangerous vehicles having grown annually from a low of 4.9% in 2020. The latest figures also reveal 3,965 unroadworthy vehicles were again classified as fail dangerous when they were submitted for a re-test in 2024. A vehicle categorised as fail dangerous is considered a direct or immediate risk to road safety such that it should not be used on the public road under any circumstances. A sticker stating Failed Dangerous will be affixed to the vehicle by a NCTS vehicle inspector, who will also inform the motorist why and how their car is dangerous and unroadworthy. According to Applus+ which operates the NCT on behalf of the Road Safety Authority, NCTS vehicle inspectors will also advise the owners of dangerously defective cars to have them towed away from the centre. The company said customers are also read a statement that if they drive the vehicle off the premises, the NCTS will inform An Garda Siochana. Applus+s communications manager Sinead McKeon said the reaction of motorists with a fail dangerous vehicle is mixed, with some ignoring the warnings and driving off. She said the high level of fail dangerous vehicles is probably linked to people not servicing their car on a regular basis. People dont check on their car in advance of going in for a test and they are using the NCT as a diagnostic tool instead of getting their vehicle serviced first, she added. Some of the main reasons for a vehicle receiving a fail dangerous result include badly corroded bodywork; bald, bulging or damaged tyres; brake fluid leaks; car doors that do not close properly and brake lights not working. At a county level, the highest share of fail dangerous vehicles last year was recorded in Cavan, where 11.9% of cars tested were dangerously defective a total of 1,831 vehicles followed by Leitrim (10.3%), Clare (9.7%) and Monaghan (9.4%). The lowest proportion was found in Offaly (6.1%); Kildare (6.3%); Louth and Waterford (both 6.7%); Dublin and Wicklow (both 6.8%) and Kilkenny (7.0%). Pass rate at lowest level The latest NCTS figures also show the pass rate for the full test has fallen to its lowest level in five years at 50.6% down from 52.9% in 2023 and the recent high rate of 54.3% in 2022. A record number of 1,732,095 vehicles were tested last year an annual increase of more than 144,000 full tests. A majority of vehicles submitted for a NCT in 11 of 26 counties passed the test. However, the lowest pass rate was recorded in Cavan, where fewer than two in every five vehicles passed the NCT with just 39.4%. The highest pass rate was recorded in Offaly at 57.3%. The NCT, which was introduced in 2000, is designed to reduce the number of road deaths by identifying defects in vehicles as well as enhance environmental protection by reducing harmful vehicle emissions. The most common fault detected during checks on more than 1.7 million vehicles last year related to steering and suspension, which affected 15% of all vehicles, followed by lighting and electrical (14.2%) and the side slip test (12.3%) which checks on wheel alignment. About 10% of all vehicles submitted for a NCT in 2024 recorded a problem with their wheels and tyres with a similar proportion also having some type of fault with their brakes. Private vehicles must undergo a NCT test when they are four years old and every two years thereafter until their 10th anniversary, after which they need to be tested annually. The RSA stresses the NCT does not replace or remove responsibility from the owners of vehicles to ensure their vehicle is in a roadworthy condition at all times. It also points out that the test should not be used as a substitute for the regular maintenance that needs to be carried out on a vehicle. The discovery of a body in Spain believed to be that of John George ends an extremely tortuous search process, a statement issued on behalf of his family said. The 37-year-old west Belfast man had been holidaying in Alicante and was last in touch with his family on December 14. The father of two was reported missing four days later after he failed to board his flight home to Northern Ireland. The family are both distressed but also relieved at this latest news Solicitor firm KRW Law said Mr Georges father Billy contacted them on Tuesday evening with an update that Spanish police believed they had found his sons remains. We can confirm the father of Mr George contacted us today shortly after 5pm to confirm Spanish police told him they had recovered his sons remains, the statement said. Mr Billy George was told that his sons body was now in a morgue awaiting formal identification. The family are both distressed but also relieved at this latest news. It brings to an end an extremely tortuous search process for the body. Mr Georges family and friends had travelled to Spain to help search efforts and made public pleas for information. Parents Billy and Sharon, brother Darren, and sisters Courtney and Caitlin along with up to 50 friends and wider family from Northern Ireland were involved in the wide-scale search operation. The family want to thank all who have helped and supported them over the last number of days The statement said a murder investigation had been launched and appealed for privacy for Mr Georges family. It said: The family want to thank all who have helped and supported them over the last number of days. They now respectfully ask for some privacy to allow them both time and space to engage on the next harrowing stages on what is now a formalised murder investigation. Police in Northern Ireland have been aiding their Spanish counterparts with their investigation and had issued appeals for information since Mr George was reported missing. Could the next few paragraphs become part of what our children are taught in years to come? Democracy was in the end a historical aberration. A group of alleged philosophers and thinkers, and some equally deluded politicians, persuaded the masses of people they could govern themselves. They were aided and abetted by politicians down through the ages. One of them for instance, an American President called Lincoln, talked wistfully about government of the people, by the people, for the people. He said that, of course, while his country was split down the middle by a civil war. And he paid the price of foolishness. Over the decades other ideologies came and went. All failed. They couldnt deliver the real freedom the people needed. They couldnt protect the people from their own weaker instincts. They couldnt build invincible strength for their countries. Little by little, the people came to realise that real freedom comes from a strong leader. It took years for the truth to emerge that only a strong man, unhindered by unnecessary checks and balances, could protect the women, could keep the enemy out, could keep our blood pure, and could make us great again. We are strong now. Our leader knows best what we need and what we deserve. We dont need to have a discussion every four years about what direction we might go in. Our leader will make that decision, and we trust him. Democracy is dead. Long live a strong leader. Dilution of democracy Is all that a bit fanciful? History after all is written by the winners. And if it is so, how will the history of modern democracy be written in a few years time? Could you imagine that few paragraphs at the start of a text book on the school curriculum in future? All over the world? Because we think of ourselves as living in a democratic world. But we dont. There are not far short of 200 members of the United Nations. Twenty-four of them (including Ireland) are full democracies, according to the most respected index around (the Economist Democracy Index). Thats it. Now look whats happening in the United States, described already in the index as a flawed democracy. So a thing happened there yesterday, and it constitutes one of the greatest ironies of modern political history. The event that Donald Trump tried to stop four years ago happened yesterday without incident. The democracy he sought to desecrate met to record the fact that he won the election not that he had lost it. A dignified Kamala Harris presided over a Congressional ceremony that recorded her defeat and her loss of office. State by state the roll call of electors guaranteeing a Trump victory was announced, and by the end of Monday the only things remaining were for Biden and Harris to leave the stage and for Trump to take possession, in a formal ceremony in two weeks time. Nobody who believes in democratic values will try to disrupt that either. Wheres the irony in all this? It lies in the fact that a Democrat, peaceful and dignified, in a democratic and time-honoured way, handed democratic power to an anti-democrat But it goes further than that. There is the very real possibility that the democratic ceremonials of the next couple of weeks might never happen again. America may be about to crown a monarch. The peaceful transfer of power that democrats around the world boast about could be a permanent transfer of power. Because there are two things we know right now (and, of course, they can change). The first is that Trump and his movement have an awful lot of things they want to do before they even contemplate leaving office. The second is that Democrats dont know how to combat any of that. In the face of looming autocracy, democracy hasnt a clue. And that may turn out to be even more true in the world of Elon Musk and his mad control of endless corners of the social media that has become our opium. Before we talk about Musk for a bit, lets look at the oldest parliamentary democracy in the world, our next door neighbour. Child protection Britain has been consumed by culture wars for a number of years now. So far they havent prevailed. But this past weekend they have been ratcheted up. I forced myself to watch Nigel Farage speaking to his Reform party over the weekend. Among (a lot of) other things, he told them that there have been up to fifty incidences of the rape of children in the UK in recent years. And that was just the start of a weekend where the Tories, Farage, and Musk came together in the most extraordinary pile-on, effectively accusing the still new Labour government of allowing, even enabling, gangs of rapists to attack and abuse Britains children. Except, of course, it wasnt about that at all. I worked in the area of child protection for many years. I believe there is no greater crime than the abuse of a child. But I find it absolutely sickening that accusations of this kind are flung around for nothing but racist reasons. If you see someone in your community who looks as if they might be from Pakistan, you can be pretty sure theyre involved in gang rape, and Labour is covering up for them. Thats the message. There is now the beginning of another race war in the UK, and its only purpose is to aggrandise the far right and to undermine democratic process Farages favourite charge is that people of a different skin colour are likely to be evil. His second favourite and perhaps the more pernicious one, because how do you counter it? is that the other side is involved in a cover-up. Right now its unclear what role Elon Musk is playing. One minute hes all over Farage, the next he wants to see the back of him. Even Farage must be beginning to wonder if his erstwhile backer is playing with a full deck of cards. But despite that As Trump is about to take power, his primary ally in the States, who paid tens of millions to help get him elected, is also heavily involved in trying to destabilise another democratic government. Musk is immensely powerful, immensely rich, and, it seems, increasingly unstable himself. So maybe, just maybe, someone else with an interest in undermining democracy is pulling his strings. It all sounds mad, doesnt it. Like a crazy conspiracy theory being played out in front to us. Maybe someone is making a modern version of The Manchurian Candidate and we are all extras on the movie set. And yet we can see whats happening, day by day, little by little, in the US and the UK. We havent even mentioned France or Germany, Palestine, or Ukraine. Democracy is floundering and wringing its hands in the face of visible and growing threats and challenges. If there is a conspiracy, we will find out eventually who is really running it. But it may be too late by then. A much more autocratic world may be only years away, and we are all fast asleep. As Irish healthcare workers, we understand the fragility of a health system. We see the impact of pandemics, resource limitations, the high prevalence and toll of cancer and cardiovascular illnesses, the impact of deprivation on health, yet we are privileged to work in a health system which is not under constant threat of violence. We have never witnessed the continuous, incessant, and deliberate destruction of an already fragile health service as we have done over the past 15 months in Gaza. On New Years Eve, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published a report on the catastrophic effect on Palestinians access to health and medical care from the assaults by Israel. That report outlines the devastating effects of the decimation of the healthcare system in Gaza since October 2023. In particular, it focuses on the attacks on hospitals, healthcare facilities, and personnel The repeated attacks on hospitals operations within the vicinity of hospitals has led to the destruction of most hospitals in Gaza, and the almost complete collapse of the health system, the report asserts. It has been compiled through verification of a variety of sources, and presents its conclusions based on assumption of reasonable grounds in relation to breaches of international human rights and humanitarian law. In November 2023, the largest hospital in Gaza, Al-Shifa, was under siege resulting in the deaths of at least 179 people. We witnessed the harrowing images of babies in incubators being swaddled together for warmth as the power supplies were cut off. By mid-2024, 22 out of 38 hospitals across Gaza had been rendered non-functional, according to Palestines ministry of health. Hussam Abu Safiya is treated by colleagues for his injuries following an Israeli strike hit the medical compound in Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip, late on November 23, 2024. Picture: AFP via Getty Images Every hospital, every healthcare facility in Gaza, has been attacked by the Israeli military. We are relieved when we hear that a hospital has reopened, or is partly functional. But then we see photographs of broken windows, rubble in the corner of an intensive care unit, surgeons operating by the light of a mobile phone, and we realise what partly operational means in Gaza. Most recently, we have witnessed the 85-day long siege of Kamal Adwan Hospital in North Gaza which was the only facility providing any healthcare in the northern area. Staff provided humanitarian assistance and whatever treatment they could to the population. Extensive communication from the director, Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, showed the devastating impact of the siege, including the abduction of most of the staff, and the injury and death of several health care workers and patients. Dr Safiya, a paediatrician who fulfilled his dream of setting up the first and only neonatal intensive care unit in North Gaza, was detained by the Israeli military along with his staff in October 2024. He was interrogated and released, but the Israeli military killed his son Ibrahim. He himself was injured when an Israeli quadcopter exploded inside the hospital. Through all of this, he stayed with his patients. He called repeatedly for international intervention to stop the siege. However, on December 27, the Israeli military launched a further assault rendering the hospital nonfunctional and Dr Safiya was taken. Reports of his abduction reached Irish healthcare workers on December 28 While his whereabouts are not confirmed, evidence suggests he is detained in Sde Teiman. This prison is notorious for torture and abuse of detainees. Eyewitness testimony, including that of Israeli doctors who have worked at Sde Teiman, indicate that the abuse of Palestinian detainees there including torture, rape, and medical neglect is routine. The destruction of hospitals and medical facilities is not merely corrosive due to the impact on the physical infrastructure. Through these assaults, provision of healthcare for chronic illnesses for the frequent presentations of malnutrition and injury are impossible. There are escalating cases of renal failure due to the lack of potable water and outbreaks of communicable diseases. In recent days, seven babies two as young as 20 days old have died of hypothermia. Israeli soldiers gather at the gate to the Sde Teiman military base, where soldiers are being questioned for detainee abuse on Monday, July 29, 2024. Picture: Tsafrir Abayov/AP In response to these impacts, there have been efforts to evacuate medically compromised patients and those dependent on regular medical care for survival. However, this has been painfully slow and hindered by the restrictions on movement, the closure of borders, and the lack of safe access to patients. Humanitarian aid including food, water, medicine, and shelters have also been restricted by the occupying forces, according to the report. In addition to these assaults on hospitals by Israel, there has been evidence of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and ill-treatment of medical personnel and civilians including internally displaced persons taken into custody from inside hospitals, which has been reported in previous UN report from July 2024. More than 500 healthcare workers have been confirmed killed, with another 500 reported detained. The losses of qualified personnel have contributed to the collapse of the healthcare system. The impact of the ongoing onslaught on the population of Gaza is immense, with over 45,500 people confirmed killed and over 100,000 confirmed injured. Many believe these figures to be far below the true casualty numbers. The Lancet reported that by June 19, 2024, there were potentially 186,000 deaths in Gaza if the bodies remaining under the rubble and impossible to identify were included in the count. Preventable deaths, the impact on pregnant women, and children of this barbaric war is incalculable. The impact is likely to last generations This offices paper states: A fundamental rule of international humanitarian law (IHL) is that the wounded and sick shall be collected and cared for. All wounded and sick persons, including civilians and persons hors de combat, are afforded protection. Furthermore, IHL provides specific protections to medical personnel and medical units where the wounded and sick are cared for including hospitals. As Irish healthcare workers, we are calling on our Government, our professional organisations, and educational institutions to insist that Israel halts this egregious assault on the population of Gaza and its healthcare system, to abide by humanitarian law, and to ensure the survival of all in Gaza. We are calling for the release of Dr Safiya and all healthcare workers, hostages, and abducted persons. We are calling for an immediate ceasefire and access to humanitarian aid for the people of Palestine. We are calling for humanity to prevail for our generation but more importantly for future generations. President-elect Donald Trump was thwarted in his bid to indefinitely postpone this weeks sentencing in his hush-money case while he appeals against a ruling that upheld the verdict and put him on course to be the first president to take office convicted of crimes. Manhattan Judge Juan M Merchan ordered Fridays sentencing to proceed as scheduled, rejecting arguments from Mr Trumps lawyers who said it should be halted while they ask a state appeals court to reverse his decision to let the conviction stand. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest (Rick Scuteri/AP) Mr Trump can still ask the appeals court to intervene and order a stay or pause. Otherwise, hell be sentenced a little more than a week before he is inaugurated to a second term. Mr Trumps lawyers have told Mr Merchan that if his sentencing happens, he will appear by video rather than in person. The judge had given him the option in light of the demands of the presidential transition process. Mr Merchan denied Mr Trumps bid to throw out the verdict because of his impending return to the White House last Friday but signalled that he is not likely to sentence the Republican to any punishment for his conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform that it would be the end of the Presidency as we know it if it is allowed to stand. Lawyers for Mr Trump, who are also challenging Mr Merchans prior refusal to dismiss the case on presidential immunity grounds, filed appeal paperwork on Monday afternoon in the appellate division of the states trial court. No arguments have been scheduled. They did not ask the court to halt Mr Trumps sentencing. Separately, they argued to Mr Merchan that the appeal should trigger an automatic stay of proceedings and, if it doesnt, that he should step in and do it himself an idea he rejected. The Manhattan district attorneys office had urged Mr Merchan to proceed as scheduled, given the strong public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings. Adult film actor Stormy Daniels (Markus Schreiber/AP) Prosecutors blamed Mr Trump for pushing his sentencing to the brink of his second term by repeatedly seeking to postpone his sentencing, which was originally scheduled for July. He should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused, they wrote in a court filing on Monday afternoon. A spokesperson for Mr Trump, Steven Cheung, said: Today, President Trumps legal team moved to stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan DAs 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. Any delay in sentencing could run out the clock on closing the case before Mr Trumps second term begins on January 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 doesnt happen before Mr Trump is sworn in, waiting until he leaves office in 2029 may become the only viable option, Mr Merchan said in his ruling. If sentencing proceeds on Friday as scheduled, Mr 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 Mr Trump wins his appeal, he could be then subjected to another criminal trial while in office. In upholding the verdict and rejecting Mr Trumps bids for dismissal, Mr Merchan wrote that the interests of justice would only be served by bringing finality to this matter through sentencing. He said sentencing Mr Trump to what is known as an unconditional discharge closing the case without jail time, a fine or probation appears to be the most viable solution. Donald Trumps former lawyer Michael Cohen (Seth Wenig/AP) However, Mr Trumps lawyers were unmoved, arguing that the meritless case was fostered by numerous legal errors, including rulings by Mr Merchan they say flew in the face of the US Supreme Courts 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, defence lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove wrote. Mr Trump has selected both lawyers for high-ranking Justice Department positions. Whenever he is sentenced, Mr Trump will have an opportunity to speak, as will his lawyers and prosecutors. He can only appeal against the verdict after he is sentenced. The charges involved an alleged scheme to hide a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in the last weeks of Mr Trumps 2016 campaign to keep her from publicising claims shed had sex with him years earlier. He says that her story is false and that he did nothing wrong. The case centred on how Mr 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. Mr Cohen, a key prosecution witness who had previously called for Mr Trump to be put in prison, said that based upon all of the intervening circumstances, Mr Merchans decision to sentence Mr Trump without punishment is both judicious and appropriate. Mr Trumps sentencing initially was set for last July 11, then postponed twice at the defences request. After his November 5 election victory, the judge delayed the sentencing again so the defence and prosecution could weigh in on the future of the case. Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have settled their divorce and are asking a judge to finalise their breakup. Lopez filed documents Monday in Los Angeles Superior Court that show the former couple settled their divorce through mediation in September, about a month after she filed for divorce. While most of the financial details of their split were not publicly filed, neither star will pay the other spousal support. Lopez will drop Affleck from her legal name once the divorce is finalised. Jennifer Lopez arrives for a special screening of Unstoppable at Cineworld Leicester Square in London (Ian West/PA) The superstar couple married in July 2022. Lopez filed for divorce in August 2024, although the couple said in court filings that they separated in April 2023. After meeting, falling in love and getting engaged in the early 2000s and starring together in 2003s infamous Gigli and 2004s Jersey Girl the couple parted ways, blaming in part the pressure of the public eye. But to the delight of many and perhaps the scepticism of others, they reunited two decades later and married. Records filed Monday show the pair resolved the financial aspects of their divorce through mediation and without long-drawn-out proceedings in court. The couple have no children together. Affleck divorced Jennifer Garner, with whom he has three children, in 2018. Lopez has been married four times and has twins with singer Marc Anthony. The settlement documents were first reported by celebrity website TMZ. The Israeli military launched a wave of raids across the occupied West Bank overnight and into Tuesday, killing at least three Palestinians it said were militants a day after a deadly shooting attack. The army said it killed two militants in an airstrike after they fired at troops in the area of Tamun in the northern West Bank. January 6, 2025 A hands-on workshop at Idaho State University is helping train professionals to safely handle the fuels that will power the next generation of nuclear reactors. Called the ISU Hands-On Nuclear Criticality Safety Workshop, this day-long class is held in the Nuclear Engineering Lab on Idaho States Pocatello campus. It covers whats happening inside a nuclear reactor as it approaches going critical. Criticality simply means that you have a self-sustained fission chain reaction. When a uranium-235 atom absorbs a neutron, the atom can fissionsplitreleasing energy, radiation, and additional neutrons, explains Chad Pope, professor of nuclear engineering at Idaho State and lead instructor of the workshop. The additional neutrons can then cause additional uranium-235 atoms to fissioncalled a chain reaction. The key is you must have just the right amounta critical massof uranium-235 for the chain reaction to proceed indefinitely. If you have less than the critical mass, the chain reaction will stop. If you have more than the critical mass, the chain reaction will grow. Criticality and its self-sustaining chain reaction enable nuclear reactors to generate their power. Inside a nuclear reactor, criticality simply means that the reactor is on, said Pope. This is fine because a reactor has shielding, control rods, and monitoring instruments. Its when a nuclear fuel like uranium-235 is outside of the reactor during fuel handling, processing, and storage that the danger of someone inadvertently creating criticality lies, if appropriate procedural and engineering controls are not in place. When handling uranium-235 outside of a reactor, it is vitally important to avoid the accumulation of a critical mass of uranium-235, warns Pope. Without the shielding and control rods of a reactor, the radiation released from a critical arrangement of uranium-235 can be lethal. This has happened several times, and people have indeed died. The purpose of the workshop is to help workers understand the hazards associated with criticality and how to avoid it. The first of ISUs criticality safety workshops was held in January 2020 for 15 employees with the U.S. Department of Energy. The DOE requested the workshop to help their employeesespecially new hiresgain experience and better understand the hazards involved around criticality. The workshop is divided into two parts: a series of lectures from Pope that cover the three main components of criticality safetythe physics, a history of criticality and related accidents, and the regulations governing criticalityplus a hands-on approach-to-critical experiment using the subcritical assembly. It leverages ISUs unique facilities and Popes over 30 years of experience in the field. There are only six universities in the country that have both a nuclear reactor and a subcritical assembly, including ISU, said Pope. ISU is the only university in the country that uses 20 percent enriched uranium in a subcritical assembly. This is especially important since the nuclear industry is moving toward using 20 percent enriched uranium to fuel advanced reactors versus the current 5 percent enriched uranium. The focal point of the workshop is the experiment. Using the subcritical assemblya purpose-built device that creates the same processes that happen inside a nuclear reactorstudents add more and more uranium-235 fuel plates to the assembly and observe the increase in neutrons being released by fission. By design, however, the students can never reach criticality since the maximum amount of uranium-235 placed inside is well short of what it would take to achieve criticality. We only have 60 percent of the uranium 235 needed, which provides a very large safety margin, said Pope. This allows participants to handle the material, perform the experiment, and observe the effects of adding additional uranium-235 while avoiding any risk of an actual nuclear criticality accident. Over the years, industry professionals from the DOE, TerraPower, and more have participated in the workshop. In the last year alone, more than 100 employees at Idaho National Laboratorys Materials and Fuel Complex have taken the course. The MFC is the prime testing center for advanced technologies associated with nuclear energy power systems, and the complex is the nexus of research on new reactor fuels and related materials at INL. The Idaho State University hands-on criticality safety workshop is beneficial for our team because it reinforces essential elements of our nuclear criticality safety program, said Patrick Farnan, reactor division director at the MFC. The workshop has bolstered our understanding of criticality safety regulations, and the hands-on experience with Idaho State University's subcritical assembly aligns with our preferred learning method, providing invaluable practical exposure. The workshop increased my knowledge of reactor physics and criticality theory, Cameron Dalley, a research facility operation professional at the MFC, said. It provided real-world examples to utilize and learn from, especially if MFC operators and staff do not have a nuclear engineering background. I look forward to utilizing the principles in my day-to-day job. Revenue generated by the workshop is used to pay the graduate and undergraduate students who assist in hosting the class. Additional funds are then pumped back into the Department of Nuclear Engineering, helping to purchase new equipment for the Nuclear Engineering Laboratory. Most recently, the department purchased a large format 3D printer for the lab using funds from the workshop. The printer is currently being used to print a new lattice to hold the uranium-235 plates for the subcritical assembly. Pope says they plan to use the printer to create a full-size model of AGN-201, ISUs on-campus nuclear reactor. The model will be translucent and connected to the reactors data acquisition system so that when we make changes to AGN-201such as the position of the control rodstheyll also move in the model and help students better visualize what is happening in the real reactor, said Pope. For more information on ISUs Department of Nuclear Engineering, visit isu.edu/ne. Myanmar consul general praises China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation through cross-border e-commerce People's Daily Online) 16:36, January 07, 2025 A photo shows Khaing Su Linn, Myanmar consul general in Nanning, as she sits down for an exclusive interview with People's Daily Online. (People's Daily Online/Tan Jiangbo) "There is great potential in the future development of China-Myanmar cross-border e-commerce cooperation," said Khaing Su Linn, Myanmar's consul general in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. During an exclusive interview with People's Daily Online, the Myanmar diplomat praised the commercial cooperation between China and Myanmar, especially in the field of cross-border e-commerce. According to Linn, with the digital economy and e-commerce playing increasingly important roles in international trade, more countries, including Myanmar, are seizing opportunities in e-commerce. With an increasing internet penetration rate and a growing number of technology enthusiasts, the ASEAN member has immense potential for e-commerce development. "Myanmar and China have been cooperating in digital economy in the past years, from building cross-border cooperation zones to technical training," said Linn. "Currently, both ASEAN countries and China have been trying to take advantage of the opportunities brought by e-commerce, and I believe there is still a great deal of room for future development." Thanks to Guangxi's geographical proximity to and cultural similarities with ASEAN countries, the region serves as China's frontier and gateway for opening-up and cooperating with ASEAN. Moreover, the region also serves as a cross-border e-commerce logistics hub connecting ASEAN and China, which provides a solid foundation for cross-border e-commerce cooperation between China and ASEAN. "Guangxi, as well as its capital Nanning, serves as an important gateway for ASEAN countries to enter the Chinese market," Linn said, noting that "the region prioritizes e-commerce development and leverages platforms, such as the China-ASEAN Expo, to carry out online trade and investment promotional activities, thereby accelerating the development of China-ASEAN digital economy." In recent years, Guangxi has actively organized e-commerce forums, seminars, and events related to cross-border e-commerce. Such events help high-quality ASEAN products enter the Chinese market and further promote cross-border e-commerce cooperation between China and ASEAN countries, said Linn, adding that through these activities, companies from China and ASEAN countries can explore new opportunities for economic and trade cooperation, share experiences, exchange e-commerce expertise, and deepen cooperation in technology, resources, talent, and information. Linn expressed high expectations on Myanmar's future e-commerce industry. "With the further deepening of China-ASEAN cross-border e-commerce cooperation, I hope Myanmar's e-commerce industry will benefit, achieve a sustainable future, meet user expectations globally, and create new business opportunities for enterprises," she said. Peng Yukai contributed to this story. (Web editor: Peng Yukai, Du Mingming) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has declared his intention to resign as leader of the ruling Liberals after nine years in office, although he will remain in his position until the party elects a successor. Under significant pressure from Liberal legislators to step down amid polls indicating a severe defeat in the upcoming election, Mr. Trudeau stated at a news conference that parliament would be suspended until March. This suspension means Mr. Trudeau will still hold the office of prime minister on January 20 when US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Mr. Trump has indicated that he might impose tariffs that could severely impact Canadas economy. Tanaiste Micheal Martin acknowledged Mr. Trudeaus contributions, stating he made a significant impact on the global stage. He remarked: Under his leadership, the relationship between Ireland and Canada has strengthened. His support for the Irish-Canadian community, grounded in our shared values and historical and cultural connections, has fortified the bond between our two nations. Justin Trudeau, 53, assumed office in November 2015 and has been re-elected twice, making him one of Canadas longest-serving prime ministers. However, his popularity has declined over the past two years, fueled by public frustration over rising prices and a housing crisis, and his position has not recovered since. Polls indicate that the Liberals are expected to lose significantly to the official opposition Conservatives in an election that must take place by late October, irrespective of the party leader. The key events charting Trudeaus fortunes Parliament was scheduled to reconvene on January 27, and opposition parties have vowed to dissolve the government as quickly as possible, likely towards the end of March. However, if parliament does not resume until March 24, the earliest non-confidence motion could be presented would be sometime in May. According to one source, Mr. Trudeau had a discussion with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc regarding his willingness to step in as interim leader and prime minister, but this arrangement would be impractical if Mr. LeBlanc intends to pursue the leadership. Demands for Mr. Trudeau to resign intensified in December after his attempt to demote Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, a key cabinet ally, failed when she opposed his spending proposals. Ms. Freeland subsequently resigned, writing a letter that accused Mr. Trudeau of focusing on political gimmicks rather than prioritizing the countrys needs. Mr. Trudeau brought the Liberals to power in 2015 Mr. Trudeau led the Liberals to victory in 2015 with promises of sunny ways and a progressive agenda emphasizing womens rights and a commitment to combat climate change. Nonetheless, the challenges of governance gradually took their toll on him, and like many Western leaders, the demands of managing the pandemic consumed much of his time. While the government spent extensively to safeguard consumers and businesses, accruing record budget deficits, this did little to alleviate public dissatisfaction as prices continued to rise. A flawed immigration policy resulted in a surge of arrivals, exacerbating an already overheated housing market. Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar characterized Mr. Trudeau as a prime minister who accomplished a great deal for Canada. Speaking on RTEs Drivetime, he noted Mr. Trudeaus interactions with Mr. Trump and his efforts on climate change were beneficial. I believe he will be regarded as one of the great Canadian prime ministers, said Mr. Varadkar. He described Mr. Trudeau as a very decent, very personable individual who called to congratulate Ireland when it won a seat on the UN Security Council over Canada. Hes someone I have come to know quite well, added Mr. Varadkar. My first official visit abroad was to Canada, and his first inbound visit was to Ireland. We would have met on numerous occasions throughout the years. Jean-Marie Le Pen, the long-standing leader of Frances far-right movement, has passed away at the age of 96, as confirmed by his family to AFP. According to a family statement, Mr. Le Pen, who had been residing in a care facility for several weeks, passed away around midday surrounded by his loved ones. Over a career that spanned four decades, he played a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of French politics. Mr. Le Pen, who co-founded the National Front, created a stir in France in 2002 when he advanced to the second round of the presidential election with a strong anti-immigration stance. He claimed that the increasing prominence of far-right ideologies across Europe indicated that his views had entered the mainstream. Frequently accused of racism and anti-Semitism, he notoriously downplayed the Holocaust as merely a detail of history. In 2011, his daughter Marine Le Pen took over the leadership of the party, expelling him four years later in an effort to distance her movement from his extremist legacy. The party, now known as the National Rally (RN), has made notable progress. Jean-Marie Le Pen with his daughter Marine It achieved strong results in last years European Parliament elections and emerged as the largest single party in a subsequent general election in France. Jordan Bardella, the RN party chief and a close associate of Ms. Le Pen, offered a measured tribute stating that Mr. Le Pen had always served France. As a soldier in the French army during Indochina and Algeria, as a voice for the people in the National Assembly and the European Parliament, he consistently served France and defended its identity and sovereignty, the 29-year-old expressed on X. Today, I find myself reflecting with sorrow on his family, his loved ones, and especially Marine, whose grief must be honored. A woman in Brazil has been arrested on charges of triple homicide after several family members were poisoned by a Christmas cake laced with arsenic. During a family gathering on December 23 in Torres, a small coastal town in southern Brazil, three women died and three other relatives became ill after consuming the cake. Marcos Veloso, the police official overseeing the investigation, stated at a press conference that there is strong evidence against the arrested family member. While her identity has not been disclosed by the authorities, Brazilian media reports indicate she is the daughter-in-law of the woman who baked the cake. According to Mr. Veloso, the family noticed a spicy and off-putting taste in the cake. The woman who baked the cake advised them to stop eating it, but by then it was too late. Six relatives were taken to the hospital, but tragically, two sisters aged 58 and 65, along with the 43-year-old daughter of the eldest sister, passed away within hours of one another. The third sister, 61, who made the cake, is still hospitalized but is reported to be in stable condition. Meanwhile, the husband of one of the deceased sisters and a ten-year-old boy, whose mother and grandmother were killed, have been released from the hospital. Marguet Mittman, the forensic police director for the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, revealed that very high concentrations of arsenic were detected in the three victims. To give context, 35 micrograms are sufficient to cause death in a person. In one of the victims, the concentration was 350 times higher, she stated. Regarding the motive for the fatal cake, Mr. Veloso noted that the family had a very harmonious relationship but also long-standing differences that might provide insight into the crimes origins. The police have additionally requested the exhumation of the body of the late husband of the cakes baker, whose death last September was classified as food poisoning and had not been thoroughly investigated. 01/06/2025 Dr. Arup Ghosh speaking to members at the IEEE Alabama Social in December 2024 at the Hoover Country Club following his announcement as Chair for the 2025-2026 term. Dr. Arup Ghosh, an associate professor of computer science at Jacksonville State University (Jax State) and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), has been elected Chair of the IEEE Alabama Section for 2025-2026. A respected leader in technology and education, Dr. Ghosh's appointment reflects his outstanding contributions to the IEEE community and his commitment to fostering innovation and professional growth across Alabama. "As Chair, I aim to build upon the strong foundation of the IEEE Alabama Section to further support our members and student branches across the state," Dr. Ghosh shared. "I want to inspire more individuals to engage with IEEE and contribute to the advancements in technology, society, and education." IEEE boasts a membership of over 460,000 individuals across 190 countries. The IEEE Alabama Section serves members throughout the state, including student branches at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Auburn University and Jax State. Dr. Ghosh's leadership has been recognized with two prestigious awards for his contributions to education: the Engineering Council of Birmingham (ECOB) Educator of the Year Award and the IEEE Alabama Educator of the Year Award. "It is humbling to receive these awards, which are a testament to the incredible support I've received from colleagues, students, and the IEEE community," Dr. Ghosh said of these honors. "My passion has always been to nurture the next generation of engineers and researchers, and these recognitions motivate me to continue that work." Dr. Ghosh holds several key positions within IEEE. He is Chair of the IEEE Alabama Computer Society, the IEEE Region 3 Technical Activities Coordinator and a member of the IEEE Region 3 Operational Audit Committee. His distinguished history of service includes active involvement in technical activities, program planning, and participation as a reviewer and technical committee member within IEEE Region 3 and on a broader scale. At Jax State, Dr. Ghosh spearheaded the establishment of the IEEE Student Branch in 2023, which has thrived under his guidance. The branch earned the IEEE Region 3 Exemplary Student Branch Award for its outstanding leadership, management, and administration. "The students at Jax State have shown exceptional dedication and creativity," Dr. Ghosh noted. "Their enthusiasm for learning and innovating inspires me every day, and it's a privilege to mentor them as they explore the endless possibilities in engineering and technology." Through his mentorship, Dr. Ghosh's students have achieved significant milestones, including winning the Entrepreneur Pitch Competition at the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Undergraduate Research Presentation Award at IEEE SoutheastCon, and the Best of Showcase and Best of Science and Mathematics Graduate awards at the Jax State Student Symposium. In addition to his IEEE contributions, Dr. Ghosh revitalized JSU's UPE Honor Society for Computing and Information Disciplines and actively contributed to academic competitions, including the IEEE Xtreme programming competition and the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Alabama's 3rd Congressional District. Dr. Ghosh's Human-Technology Interaction Research Lab has significantly contributed to areas such as online safety and digital youth, with research published in prestigious conferences like ACM CHI and ACM CSCW. Reflecting on his vision for the IEEE Alabama Section, Dr. Ghosh said, "I am passionate about giving back to society, and IEEE provides an incredible platform to make that possible. It allows me to connect with like-minded individuals committed to technology, society, and humanity. I look forward to using my role as Chair to continue making a meaningful impact on the Alabama Section, IEEE Region 3, and beyond." Dr. Ghosh was recently inducted into the IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu (HKN) Honor Society for his outstanding leadership and contributions. His appointment as Chair of the IEEE Alabama Section highlights his personal achievements and underscores Jax State's commitment to fostering excellence in education, research, and professional development. ( Middle East Monitor ) Gazas Ministry of Health today announced that 35-day-old Yousef Kalloub froze to death because of the lack of sufficient winter clothes and suitable living conditions in the enclave as a result of Israels genocidal war. Yousef became the eight baby to freeze to death in Gaza. In a statement yesterday, the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) warned that cold weather and lack of shelter are causing the death of newborns in Gaza, while 7,700 newborns lack life-saving care. The displaced Palestinians have been living in tents made of cloth and nylon, due to the scarcity of essentials such as water and food, in addition to a severe shortage of clothing, blankets and heating during the winter. Many tents flooded and were blown away from the winter winds last week, leaving many exposed to the elements and putting the lives of infants further at risk. [See Juan Cole, Gaza Yet Stands (Ann Arbor, 2024) ] Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, commented, Our humanitarian effort in Gaza, already struggling, faces mounting obstacles. Just three examples from the last couple of days alone. An Israeli strike seriously injured three people at a known food distribution point where a partner of the World Food Programme was operating. Israeli soldiers fired over 16 bullets at a clearly marked UN convoy at the checkpoint from the south to the north. Armed Palestinian gangs hijacked six fuel tankers entering from the Kerem Shalom crossing, leaving us hardly any fuel for aid operations. These incidents are part of a dangerous pattern of sabotage and deliberate disruption. On Friday night, Israeli forces increased attacks during the movement of a 74-truck aid convoy. A drone strike hit a vehicle from the local community which was protecting part of the convoy. And just a few days ago, a UN mission out of Jabalya ran into hostile Israeli soldiers who threatened critical patients and arrested four of them. The reality is that despite our determination to deliver food, water, and medicine to survivors, our efforts to save lives are at breaking point. There is no meaningful civil order. Israeli forces are unable or unwilling to ensure the safety of our convoys. Statements by Israeli authorities vilify our aid workers even as the military attacks them. Community volunteers who accompany our convoys are being targeted. There is now a perception that it is dangerous to protect aid convoys but safe to loot them. The World Food Programme complained about Israel firing on its aid workers: The World Food Programme (WFP) 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 convoy, consisting of three vehicles carrying eight staff members, came under hostile fire despite having received all of the necessary clearances from Israeli authorities. At least 16 bullets struck the vehicles. Thankfully, no staff members were injured in this terrifying encounter. ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE: A @WFP convoy, clearly marked & carrying 8 team members, was shot at by Israeli forces near Wadi Gaza despite prior clearances. Humanitarians are #NotATarget! We MUST have safe, secure access to continue delivering life-saving aid. https://t.co/ai10NBO7re pic.twitter.com/ut73Eg4wKl Cindy McCain (@WFPChief) January 6, 2025 Flour, Digital, Dream / Dreamland v3, IbisPaint, 2024 UN News adds that the firing on the WFP convoy took place at that same time as reports that a projectile hit a flour distribution center located in central Gaza, managed by a United Nations aid collaborator, over the weekend, critically wounding three relief workers. Personnel from the UN agency present near the storage facility recounted hearing distressing screams following the impact. Additionally, they reported instances of looting and gunfire that occurred after the explosion on Sunday at the MAAN Development Center site. By Hurst Hannum, Tufts University (The Conversation) 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Justices, Digital, Midjourney, 2025 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. 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? 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. Hurst Hannum, Professor of International Law, Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy, Tufts University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 6, 2025) - EMX Royalty Corporation (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. 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. Vancouver, British Columbia January 7, 2025 TheNewswire - Leocor Gold Inc. (the Company or Leocor) (CSE: LECR, OTCQB: LECRF), a resource company focussed on the development of gold-copper projects in Eastern Canada, is pleased to provide an update on its upcoming drill campaign at the Baie Verte project, an approximately 2,000-ha contiguous exploration package located in north central Newfoundland, Canada. The Company is pleased to report it has received permit approval for its proposed upcoming drill program. Drill targets have been finalized (see Company news release dated December 17) at both the Copper Creek and Dorset claims within its Baie Verte project area. Geological personnel are anticipated to mobilize on or around January 10 to flag trails and site holes. Drill equipment and crew are expected to arrive shortly thereafter. Drilling is scheduled to begin after trails and other logistics are completed, approximately five days after drill team arrival. Updates will be provided closer to mobilization. Multiple drill holes at Copper Creek will target areas of known mineralization with both favorable structures and positive geochemical attributes. At Dorset, the targets are concentrated in areas where the Company intersected significant gold results in its 2022 drill campaign. Leocors geological team, led by Resourceful Geosciences, and the dill crew (Rally Drill Services), will be conducting the drill program under the supervision of David Murray, P. Geo, president of Resourceful Geosciences. The Dorset project is highly prospective for additional high-grade gold zones and the 2025 program will be designed to test some of the priority zones within a prominent 1 x 2 km gold-in-soil anomaly delineated by Leocor in 2022. Figure 1: Location of the Baie Verte Project, NW Newfoundland For more information regarding Leocors Baie Verte Project, including detailed figures, assessment details, and historic data, please visit: https://leocorgold.com/projects/baie-verte-district/. Qualified Person The technical information contained in this press release has been previously published and was reviewed and approved at that time by Mike Kilbourne, P. Geo, and Jodie Gibson, P. Geo, both independent qualified persons as defined in National Instrument 43-101. About Leocor Gold Inc. Leocor Gold Inc. is a British Columbia-based resource company involved in the acquisition and exploration of precious metal projects, with a current focus in Atlantic Canada. Leocor, through outright ownership and earn-in agreements, currently controls several gold-copper projects in prime exploration ground located within the prolific Baie Verte Mining District. Leocors Bae Verte portfolio includes the Dorset, Dorset Extension, Copper Creek and Five Mile Brook projects, creating a contiguous nearly 2,000-hectare exploration corridor. The Company also controls district scale land packages in North Central Newfoundland, known as Roberts Arm, Hodges Hill, and Leamington, (collectively Western Exploits) representing over 144,000 hectares (1,440 square kilometers) of prospective exploration ground. For more information, sign up for news alerts, watch our corporate video, or view our presentation at https://leocorgold.com/. Contact Information Leocor Gold Inc. Alex Klenman, Chief Executive Officer Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Telephone : (604) 970-4330 Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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 release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Such information includes, without limitation, information regarding the terms and conditions of the Option. Although Leocor believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. 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. Leocor cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Leocor is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the agreement of the parties to proceed with the proposed transaction on the terms set out in the Option Agreements or at all; Leocor's ability to exercise the Options; the state of the financial markets for Leocor's securities; the state of the natural resources sector in the event the Option, or any of them, are completed; recent market volatility; circumstances related to COVID-19; Leocor's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that Leocor is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to Leocor's initial public offering prospectus for a more complete discussion of applicable risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through Leocors issuer page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Leocor disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. To view a summary of today's press release by Ridgeline CEO Chad Peters, click HERE Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Ridgeline Minerals Corp. (TSXV: RDG) (OTCQB: RDGMF) (FSE: 0GC0) ("Ridgeline" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the staking of the Atlas Gold Project, ("Atlas" or the "Project") a high-grade, oxide gold ("Au") exploration prospect in Eureka County, Nevada (Figure 1). The Company acquired Atlas via the low-cost staking of 59 lode claims totaling 1,219 acres (5.0 square kilometers). The Project is 100% owned by the Company and retains no underlying lease payments, work commitments or royalty obligations. The Project encompasses an approximately 3-kilometer ("km") long by 0.5 km wide, gold in soils footprint that is supported by an extensive historical rock chip database of 346 samples, with highlight grades of up to 7.7 grams per tonne ("g/t") Au and 3.2 g/t Au (Figure 2). Atlas exhibits classic Carlin-Type alteration and gold mineralization that outcrops at surface and is hosted by the same Pennsylvanian to Permian age host rocks as Orla Mining's multi-million-ounce, Dark Star Deposit, located on the southern Carlin Trend. The Project has never been drilled and represents an opportunity to make a bulk tonnage, oxide gold discovery in the Carlin Trend. Chad Peters, Ridgeline's President & CEO, commented, "Staking the Atlas project is a great example of our team's ability to continue generating high quality exploration opportunities in mature districts in Nevada. Carlin-Type gold deposits continue to deliver some of the highest value per ounce in the ground anywhere in North America, and Atlas represents a low-risk opportunity with considerable exploration upside." Mr. Peters continues, "Furthermore, our Vice President of Exploration, Mike Harp, brings a unique perspective to exploration at Atlas, having previously led the discovery of the multi-million-ounce North Dark Star deposit, which is hosted in the same Penn-Perm host rocks and considered a direct analogue to the gold system at Atlas. Mike recognized the potential at Atlas immediately and our team is excited to get out in the field this spring and make a new gold discovery." Rock Chip Highlights: Historical rock chips up to 7.7 g/t Au, 3.2 g/t Au and 2.9 g/t Au (Figure 2) A total of 346 historical rock chip samples have been collected across the property ranging from 0.002-7.70 g/t Au (avg. 0.17 g/t Au) 136 of the rock chip samples returned grades of 0.10 g/t Au or higher 32 rock chip samples returned grades averaging 0.40 g/t Au or higher (Figure 2) Ridgeline collected 9 rock chip samples during initial field reconnaissance ranging from 0.007-0.72 g/t Au (avg. 0.13 g/t Au) For a table of significant rock chip values click HERE Soil Sample Highlights: A total of 447 historical soil samples were collected across the property ranging from below detection limit ("BDL") to 0.12 g/t Au (avg. 0.008 g/t Au) (Figure 2) The kilometer-scale soils anomaly correlates well with both historical rock chips and outcropping jasperoid occurrences within Penn-Perm carbonate host rocks 2025 Exploration Strategy The team will focus on 3D modelling and permitting initiatives in Q1, to prepare for a maiden drill program (3-5 holes) in Q2. Field mapping and additional rock chip sampling and prospecting are a high priority for the team, however, access to the site is weather dependent with limited field work anticipated in January and February. The Company anticipates the submittal of a Bureau of Land Management administered Notice of Intent ("NOI") exploration permit in late Q1 to allow for up to five (5) acres of surface disturbance, which will be allocated to road and pad building to support a maiden drill program. Figure 1: Plan view map showing the location of the Atlas oxide gold project as well as Ridgeline's six other exploration projects in Nevada, which are a mix of 100%-owned and earn-in exploration agreements with Nevada Gold Mines and South32 Atlas Project Atlas is located in Eureka County, Nevada, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of the town of Carlin, NV. The property exhibits classic Carlin-Type alteration and gold mineralization within outcropping Pennsylvanian to Permian age carbonate to siliciclastic host rocks. The primary target at Atlas is a bulk tonnage, oxide, Carlin-Type gold discovery, which is analogous to the nearby Dark Star gold deposit (part of the greater Railroad Mining District), which is currently owned by Orla Mining and advancing towards mine development. The 100% owned Project is comprised of a total of five square kilometers of highly prospective exploration ground that has never been drill tested and will benefit from the Ridgeline teams systematic approach to discovery (view the Ridgeline Corporate Deck HERE). Figure 2: Plan view map of the Atlas property showing an untested 3-kilometer gold in soils and rock chip anomaly that is briefly broken up by shallow alluvium separating the north and south claim blocks QA/QC Procedures Samples are submitted to American Assay Laboratories (AAL) of Sparks, Nevada, which is a certified and accredited laboratory, independent of the Company. Independent check samples are sent to Paragon Geochemical Labs (PAL) of Sparks, Nevada. Samples are prepared using industry-standard prep methods and analysed using FA-PB30-ICP (Au; 30g fire assay) and ICP-5AM48 (48 element Suite; 0.5g 5-acid digestion/ICP-MS) methods. AAL also undertakes its own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. Ridgeline's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards, duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results completed by the Company's Qualified Person, Michael T. Harp, Vice President, Exploration. Technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael T. Harp, CPG. the Company's Vice President, Exploration, who is Ridgeline's Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and responsible for technical matters of this release. Mr. Harp has reviewed all available historical data and cross-referenced the results against Ridgeline samples and field observations and deemed the historical data adequate. However, the Company has only collected nine reconnaissance rock chip samples to date and further field work is required to confirm the results of the historical geochemical database. It is the QP's opinion that the historical data should be considered historical in nature until the Company can verify with its own surface geochemical confirmation program. About Ridgeline Minerals Corp. Ridgeline Minerals is a discovery focused precious and base metal explorer with a proven management team and a 200 km2 exploration portfolio across seven projects in Nevada, USA. The Company is a hybrid explorer with a mix of 100%-owned exploration assets (Big Blue, Atlas, Bell Creek & Coyote) as well as two earn-in exploration agreements with Nevada Gold Mines at its Swift and Black Ridge projects and a third earn-in with South32 at its Selena project. More information about Ridgeline can be found at www.ridgelineminerals.com. On behalf of the Board "Chad Peters" President & CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release Cautionary Note regarding Forward Looking Statements Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated benefits of the Earn-In Agreement and the transaction contemplated thereby. The words "potential", "anticipate", "meaningful", "discovery", "forecast", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "plan", "historical", "historic" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify Forward-Looking Information. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, Ridgeline has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions that TSX Venture Exchange approval will be granted in a timely manner subject only to standard conditions; the current objectives concerning the Project can be achieved and that its other corporate activities will proceed as expected; that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner; and that all requisite information will be available in a timely manner. Forward-Looking Information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Ridgeline to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-Looking Information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to dependence on key personnel; risks related to unforeseen delays; risks related to historical data that has not been verified by the Company; as well as those factors discussed in Ridgeline's public disclosure record. Although Ridgeline has attempted to identify important factors that could affect Ridgeline and may 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 not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. 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 statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. Except as required by law, Ridgeline does not assume any obligation to release publicly any revisions to Forward-Looking Information contained in this news release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 7, 2025 /Highlander Silver Corp. (CSE:HSLV)("Highlander Silver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Earle as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective immediately. He succeeds Richard Warke, Interim President and CEO, who will continue to serve on the Board of Directors alongside Messrs. Thomas Whelan, Jerrold Annett, Javier Toro and Federico Velasquez. In addition to Mr. Earle, Highlander Silver has strengthened its management team with the appointments of Sunny Lowe as Chief Financial Officer, Federico Velasquez as President Peru, Sergio Gelcich as Vice President Exploration, Arun Lamba as Vice President Corporate Development, Purni Parikh as Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs, and Tom Ladner as General Counsel, also effective immediately. Daniel Earle, commented: "It is my deep honour to be appointed to lead a highly-motivated management team with proven expertise in the key disciplines required to launch Highlander Silver and its bonanza grade San Luis project into the forthcoming structural bull market in silver. I would like to thank Richard Warke for this opportunity, and the Augusta Group, Lundin family members and Eric Sprott as strategic shareholders for their support as we embark on this exciting journey." Daniel Earle Appointed President & CEO Daniel Earle has over 20 years of experience in the mining sector and capital markets, most recently serving as the President and CEO of Solaris Resources. At Solaris, Mr. Earle led an award-winning team credited with revitalizing a dormant copper discovery in Ecuador and launching it into a secular bull market for copper. Solaris delivered rapid socioeconomic development and returns for its shareholders by advancing its flagship project to the development stage and growing it to ten-times its original size. Prior to joining Solaris in 2019, Mr. Earle was a Vice President and Director at TD Securities, covering the mining sector for more than 12 years. Mr. Earle is a graduate and scholar of the Lassonde Mineral Engineering Program at the University of Toronto. Sunny Lowe Appointed Chief Financial Officer Sunny Lowe has over 25 years of capital markets, finance, and international accounting, tax and risk management experience, most recently serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Solaris Resources, where Ms. Lowe was a driving force in the advancement of its flagship project and corporate development strategy. Prior to joining Solaris in 2021, Ms. Lowe was Chief Financial Officer for a South American gold exploration and development company where she was instrumental in its acquisition by an intermediate gold producer. Ms. Lowe has also previously served as Vice President, Finance, and Vice President, Internal Audit & Enterprise Risk Management for Kinross Gold. Ms. Lowe is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds an MBA from the Schulich School of Business at York University. Federico Velasquez Appointed President Peru Federico Velasquez has over 20 years of experience in regulatory, permitting, government and community relations, with special expertise in relation to indigenous communities, most recently serving as President, Latin America at Solaris Resources. At Solaris, Mr. Velasquez was responsible for a precedent-setting corporate social responsibility strategy that included implementing full spectrum community development programs, signing Impacts and Benefits Agreements and cooperation agreements with local and regional communities, and advancing permitting to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment for the construction of the flagship project. Prior to joining Solaris in 2019, Mr. Velasquez was Director of Corporate Affairs-Global for Equinox Gold. Before that he spent more than 5 years leading corporate affairs and supporting the management of assets for Anglo American Metallurgical Coal - Canada & Australia. Sergio Gelcich Appointed Vice President Exploration Dr. Sergio Gelcich has over 25 years of experience leading the geological and technical aspects of exploration projects across the globe, most recently serving as the Vice President of Exploration for Cerrado Gold and Ascendant Resources. At Cerrado, Dr. Gelcich was responsible for overseeing the exploratory and Mineral Resource aspects of projects in South America. At Ascendant, Dr. Gelcich played a key role in updating economic studies and expanding the Lagoa Salgada polymetallic deposit in Portugal. Prior to this, Dr. Gelcich was the Director of Exploration for Hudbay Minerals, where he led the corporate geology and exploration team. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Geology and a Master of Science in Geology from the Universidad de Chile, as well as a PhD in Geology from the University of Toronto. Arun Lamba Appointed Vice President Corporate Development Arun Lamba has over 15 years of experience in financial services and capital markets covering the mining sector, most recently serving as Vice President Corporate Development for Solaris Resources. Prior to joining Solaris in 2024, Mr. Lamba was a Senior Mining Analyst at TD Cowen, a leading North American investment bank, where he gained a wide range of analytical experience covering mining projects from early-stage exploration through feasibility and construction to production in both base and precious metals. Mr. Lamba is a Chartered Financial Analyst and completed an MBA at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and degrees in engineering and economics at Queen's University. Purni Parikh Appointed Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs Purni Parikh has over 25 years of public company experience in the mining sector including corporate affairs and finance, legal and regulatory administration, and governance. Ms. Parikh is President of the Augusta Group of Companies and Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs of its member companies. Ms. Parikh obtained a Certificate in Business from the University of Toronto and a Gemology degree. Ms. Parikh holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. Tom Ladner Appointed General Counsel Tom Ladner has over 10 years of securities legal and regulatory experience, most recently serving as the Vice President Legal at Solaris Resources since 2020, and General Counsel for the Augusta Group of Companies. Prior to joining the Augusta Group, Mr. Ladner practiced law in the Securities and Capital Markets group of a major Canadian law firm. Mr. Ladner has advised on multiple M&A transactions valued in excess of $1B and more than 30 public market financing transactions with an aggregate value of more than $1B. In 2024, Mr. Ladner was a finalist for both the Western Canada General Counsel Awards and the Canadian General Counsel Awards "Tomorrow's Leader Award." Mr. Ladner has his Honors in Business Administration with distinction from the Richard Ivey School of Business and his Juris Doctor from Western University. About Highlander Silver Highlander Silver is advancing a portfolio of silver exploration and development assets in the Americas, including the bonanza grade San Luis gold-silver project that is located adjacent to the Pierina mine in Central Peru. Highlander Silver is backed by the Augusta Group, which boasts an exceptional track record of value creation totaling over $4.5B in exit transactions, and supported by strategic shareholders, the Lundin Family and Eric Sprott. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol HSLV. Additional information about Highlander Silver and its mineral projects can be viewed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at (www.sedarplus.ca) and its website at www.highlandersilver.com. Neither the CSE nor the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. For further information, please contact: Arun Lamba, Vice President Corporate Development Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Cautionary Notes and Forward-looking Statements Certain information contained in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. This includes, but is not limited to, information or statements with respect to the forthcoming structural bull market in silver. Such forward looking information or statements may be identified by the use of words such as "forthcoming". Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company and/or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, commodity prices, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, accident, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, and delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing. Although the Company 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 could cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking information contained herein are made as of the date of this news release. 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 statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. VANCOUVER, BC TheNewswire - January 7, 2025 Heritage Mining Ltd. (CSE: HML FRA:Y66) (Heritage or the Company) is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Reid to the Companys board of directors (the Board). Mr. Reid will be succeeding James Fairbairn, who has retired from the Board with immediate effect. Mr. Reid recently retired after a 30 year career with Sun Life Financial (Sun Life) include terms as CFO Canada and Head of Corporate Development. Since joining Sun Life Financial in 1994, Tom has held increasingly senior positions throughout Sun Life in the areas of Finance, Corporate Development, Public Relations and Investor Relations. From 2009 to 2020, Mr. Reid led the Group Retirement Services business at Sun Life, growing the assets under management from $30 billion to $130 billion in that time. For the last 4 years, Tom was responsible for the Strategy and Growth team for Sun Life in Canada, where his team led strategic planning for the Canadian businesses and explored how Sun Life can invest in new businesses to accelerate the Companys growth in Canada. Mr. Reid also holds the CPA,CA designations. I am excited to join Peter Schloo and the experienced team at Heritage Mining as we continue to develop the Companys portfolio of projects in Ontario. Peter has consistently demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and approach to business and I have been a consistent supporter of Heritage as a result. I look forward to generating value for our stakeholders, 2025 will be an exciting chapter for us. Commented Thomas Reid, Director of Heritage. I am delighted to have Tom on the Heritage Mining Board of Directors. Ive work under Tom in my past role at Sun Life driving improved operational efficiency through automations and coding in their Finance Department. Sun Life was a fantastic place to learn and add value. Id also like to thank Jim for his contributions as a Director and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Jim was one of the first Directors in Heritage and has brought material value to our stakeholders. Commented Peter Schloo, President, CEO and Director of Heritage. ABOUT HERITAGE MINING LTD. The Company is a Canadian mineral exploration company advancing its two high grade gold-silver-copper projects in Northwestern Ontario. The Drayton-Black Lake and the Contact Bay projects are located near Sioux Lookout in the underexplored Eagle-Wabigoon-Manitou Greenstone Belt. Both projects benefit from a wealth of historic data, excellent site access and logistical support from the local community. The Company is well capitalized, with a tight capital structure. For further information, please contact: Heritage Mining Ltd. Peter Schloo, CPA, CA, CFA President, CEO and Director Phone: (905) 505-0918 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of the Company. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as seek, anticipate, plan, continue, estimate, expect, forecast, may, will, project, predict, potential, targeting, intend, could, might, should, believe, outlook and similar expressions are not statements of historical fact and may be forward looking information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks include, among others, the inherent risk of the mining industry; adverse economic and market developments; the risk that the Company will not be successful in completing additional acquisitions; risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; the possibility that the Companys estimated burn rate may be higher than anticipated; risks of unexpected cost increases; risks of labour shortages; risks relating to exploration and development activities; risks relating to future prices of mineral resources; risks related to work site accidents, risks related to geological uncertainties and variations; risks related to government and community support of the Companys projects; risks related to global pandemics and other risks related to the mining industry. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forwardlooking information should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any forwardlooking information except as required by law. This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States, or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Refined Energy Corp. (CSE: RUU; OTC: RFMCF; FRA: CWA0) (Refined or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed the review and interpretation of historical geophysical survey data at the Dufferin West Property in the Athabasca Basin. Three priority target areas were identified by Condor Consulting Inc. using archived versatile time domain electromagnetic (VTEM) and magnetic data. A drill program is being planned for the highest priority targets. The data interpretation is part of the 2024 work program on the Dufferin Project as described in the news release of October 7. Interpretation was focused in the southeast of the property and identified three geophysical target areas located adjacent to the Virgin River Shear Zone. The highest priority target area (see figure below) is represented by two conductors. One is a strong conductor associated with a distinct magnetic transition. This conductor is interpreted to extend from the unconformity at the sandstone contact well into the underlying basement rocks. The second conductor is also interpreted to extend from the unconformity to a lesser distance into the underlying basement rocks. This target has never been drill tested and the depth of sandstone cover above the unconformity is estimated to be relatively shallow at less than 200m. Uranium deposits in the Athabasca Basin are often located at or underneath the unconformity contact between the overlying sandstone and the basement rocks. The other two targets are also characterized by conductors with associated magnetic features. Figure 1: Dufferin West Compilation Map Refined is currently planning an appropriate drill program to test the highest priority target area. Mark Fields, Chief Executive Officer of the Company stated, We are very encouraged to receive notably positive results from our initial work on Dufferin West. It is exciting to be planning an initial drill program for Refined Energy in the Athabasca Basin, renowned for its history of exploration, discovery, and development of high value uranium mines. The Dufferin Project is located in proximity to NE-SW trending faults which are known to host uranium mineralization. Our work is focused on the discovery of potential high-grade deposits that characterize the Athabasca Basin. Refined holds the exclusive option to acquire 75% from the Eagle Plains Resources Ltd. as per the news release on February 27, 2024. The 10,140ha Dufferin Project is made up of the North and West Dufferin properties. It is located approximately 18km from Camecos Centennial Deposit where historic drill hole VR-031W3 intersected 8.78% U308 over 33.9m (SMAF 74G12-0061). Qualified Persons C. C. (Chuck) Downie, P.Geo., a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and a director of Eagle Plains Resources Ltd., has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. About Refined Energy Corp. Refined Energy Corp. is a junior mining company dedicated to identifying, evaluating and acquiring interests in mineral properties in North America. In addition to the Dufferin Project, Refined also has an option to earn up to a 100% interest in the Basin and Milner uranium properties in Saskatchewan. The Company continues to review other mineral properties in North America for possible acquisition in the future. For further information, please contact: Phone: (604) 398-3378 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Companys current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Companys exploration plans and objectives at the Dufferin Project; the exploration potential of the Dufferin Project, including the potential of the Dufferin Project to host unconformity- and basement-hosted uranium mineralization; and the utility of prior historic exploration work in focusing future exploration programs. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including, in respect of the forward-looking information included in this press release, the assumption that: the Company will successfully complete its planned exploration programs in accordance with current expectations and that such programs will yield the results anticipated by the Company, including identifying disrupted faults delineated by EM conductors and other geophysical anomalies for drill targeting. Although forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions of the Companys management, there can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral projects, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, that mineral exploration is inherently uncertain and that the results of mineral exploration may not be indicative of the actual geology or mineralization of a project and that mineral exploration may be unsuccessful or fail to achieve the results anticipated by the Company, including identifying disrupted faults delineated by EM conductors and other geophysical anomalies for drill targeting and discovering unconformity- and basement-hosted uranium mineralization. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the information contained herein. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Dolly Varden Silver Corporation (TSXV: DV) (OTCQX: DOLLF) (FSE: DVQ1) (the "Company" or "Dolly Varden") is pleased to announce infill, step-out and resource expansion drilling results from the Wolf Vein. Drill hole DV24-421 is a significant 120 meter step-out down the plunge of the high grade silver zone and intersected 379 g/t Ag, 0.64% Pb and 0.66% Zn over 21.69 meters. The consistent thickness and silver grade of the mineralized zone remains wide open for expansion as it plunges to the southwest. DV24-421 is the southernmost hole completed to date; results have delivered consistent wide, potentially underground bulk-mineable intervals. These include recently reported step-out results completed during the 2024 season, including previously released: DV24-416, intersecting and 654 g/t Ag / 0.47% Pb / 0.57% Zn over 21.48 meters and DV24-408, intersecting 513 g/t Ag / 2.95% Pb / 1.82% Zn over 27.19 meters (see Dolly Varden Silver's News Release, dated September 9, 2024). This drilling has expanded the plunge of the silver mineralization to over 1,100 meters at the Wolf Vein. Further expansion drilling will be a priority during the Company's fully funded 2025 drilling program. Additionally, included in this release are results from follow-up exploration drilling from multiple prospects on the Dolly Varden Project Area. The Company's successful 2024 exploration drill program at the Kitsault Valley Project was expanded to 32,000 m from the initial planned 25,000 m. Wolf Vein Drilling Highlights include: DV24-421 - 120m step-out: 379g/t Ag, 0.64% Pb and 0.66% Zn over 21.69 meters, including 1,804 g/t Ag, 4.36% Pb and 3.10% Zn over 1.67 meters. DV24-406 - infill: 465 g/t Ag, 0.49% Pb and 0.22% Zn over 7.67 meters, including 1,416 g/t Ag, 1.56% Pb and 0.51% Zn with 0.24 g/t Au over 1.00 meters. DV24-413 - lower extension: 374g/t Ag, 0.54% Pb and 0.82% Zn over 9.70 meters, including 975 g/t Ag, 0.36% Pb and 2.28% Zn over 2.30 meters. Individual Pb/Zn veins in the footwall to the main Wolf Vein graded 130 g/t Ag, 2.48% Pb, 14.65% Zn over a length of 2.07 meters. DV24-415 - upper extension: 357 g/t Ag, 0.52% Pb and 0.41% Zn over 9.17 meters, including 2,034 g/t Ag, 3.47% Pb and 0.18% Zn over 1.15 meters. * intervals shown are core length. Estimated true widths vary depending on intersection angles and range from 55% to 70% of core lengths, further modelling of the new intersections is needed before true widths can be estimated. "Following our recently released, high-grade results from the Homestake Silver Deposit, these step-out drilling results from the Wolf Vein demonstrate the exceptional growth potential from the multiple deposits and exploration prospects that comprise the Kitsault Valley Project, "said Shawn Khunkhun, CEO of Dolly Varden Silver. "At Wolf, we continue to expand the extent of strong mineralization, veining and alteration as we get closer to the Torbrit Silver deposit, located 1,000 meters to the south." This release includes the final 13 holes of the total 22 drill holes (9,731 meters) completed at the Wolf Vein in the 2024. Six of the drill holes from this release are from the Wolf directional drilling program (Table 3). Directional drilling technology was used to precisely target areas for vertical extension and infill of the high-grade silver mineralized plunge. Additionally, the final 17 of the total 19 drill holes (5,815 meters) from several other prospects on the Dolly Varden portion of the Kitsault Valley Project are reported in this release (Table 4). Figure 1. Longitudinal Section of Wolf Vein looking west, with mineralization envelope in red. Plunge of high-grade silver mineralization has been extended over 180 meters from 2023 limit (shown in red) and expanded vertically over 100m vertical extent with 2024 step out holes. Drill holes from this release shown with white halo on Hole ID label. Wolf Drilling The 2024 drilling program at Wolf was comprised of step-out exploration drilling, extension/definition of the vertical extent of the high-grade silver plunge and infill within areas of wide spaced drilling. Complete results are presented in Table 1. Drill hole DV24-405 tested the vertical extent and targeted the upper area of high-grade silver plunge mineralization, intersecting the Wolf Main Zone with 12.58 meters averaging 227 g/t Ag / 0.38% Pb / 0.12% Zn and demonstrating that base metals decrease vertically up dip. This intercept includes high-grade vein breccias, including:953 g/t Ag over 1.00m and 536 Ag over 0.85m. Drill hole DV24-406 is an infill hole, intersecting mineralization approximately 45m below previously reported Wolf Extension discovery hole DV21-273 and 70m above previously released DV24-402. This hole intersected the Wolf Vein grading 465 g/t Ag / 0.49% Pb / 0.22% Zn over a length of 7.67 meters, including a 1.00 meter interval grading 1,416 g/t Ag / 1.56% Pb / 0.51% Zn and 0.24 g/t Au. Drill hole DV24-407 tested a potentially parallel, deep zone approximately 33 meters east of drill hole DV22-311, intersecting the structure and associated alteration with a vein grading 202 g/t Ag over 1.53m along with elevated zinc grades, which was also encountered in adjacent drill holes. Drill hole DV24-411 tested the vertical extent and targeted the upper area of the high-grade silver plunge and intersected the Wolf structure and associated alteration further up-dip. Vein style mineralization was intersected over 1.08 meters, grading 332 g/t Ag with high base metal grades of 1.24% Pb and 3.29% Zn. Drill hole DV24-413 was drilled to test the down-dip extent of the high-grade plunge, approximately 50 meters from DV24-410 (previously reported) and below DV24-405 (reported above). The hole encountered 25.00m of 0.17% Zn in the hanging wall alteration. Drill hole DV24-413 intersected 9.70 meters averaging 374 g/t Ag along with strong base metals; this wide, central portion of the high-grade silver plunge was encountered approximately 30 meters up plunge from DV24-410. Drill holes DV24-417, 418 tested the down-dip extent of the silver mineralization, intersecting the Wolf structure below the wider plunge but still showing intervals with strong zinc values over narrower intervals. Drill holes DV24-419, 420 tested for extensions to previously released drill hole DV22-329, which intersected 24,997 g/t Ag, 1.24% Pb and 0.35% Zn over 0.35 meters (February 06, 2023). DV24-420 intersected a post-mineralization dyke and DV24-419 intersected a strong alteration zone with 201 g/t Ag over 0.99 meters. The intercept in DV22-329 remains open for expansion. Drill hole DV24-421 is a 120m step-out to the south along the plunge of the high-grade silver zone (75 meters along strike) from previously released drill hole DV24-409. This hole was drilled towards the west from the Wolf access road that connects the historic Torbrit Mine to the Wolf exploration adits, intersecting 379g/t Ag, 0.64% Pb and 0.66% Zn over 21.69 meters. Drill holes DV24-425, 426 filled a gap above the projected silver mineralization, testing for a connection between the Wolf Vein and of the Wolf Extension below the sediment cap. The potassic alteration with zinc halo within the host structure was observed in drill core, with narrow silver-bearing veins along with anomalous base metal signature. Figure 2. Plan of Wolf Vein mineralized zone (in red) highlighting 2024 drilling with lithology shown on drill trace- grey: sedimentary rock, green: volcanic rock, pink/red: mineralization. Drill holes reported in this release are shown with white halo on Hole ID label. Step-out drill hole DV24-421 was collared from the Wolf Access Road. Wolf Vein The Wolf Vein is hosted in Jurassic-age Hazelton Formation volcanic rocks and is interpreted as a structurally controlled, multi phased, epithermal vein and vein breccias that occur along a southwest plunging zone of high grade silver mineralization. Native silver, pyargerite, argentite and argentiferous galena are hosted in multiple phases of silica and iron carbonate veins and breccias. The extention of the mineralization, discovered underneath the sedimentary rock cap to the south west of the outcropping Wolf Vein has a plunge extent of over 1,100 meters at approximately -45 to the southwest. Figure 3. Drill core of Wolf Vein and Vein Breccia in DV24-421, showing interval 762m to 767m with multiple veining events and low pressure textures. Mineralization includes: argentiferous galena, honey sphalerite, pyrite and native silver, part of sample grading 1,804 g/t Ag, 4.36% Pb, 3.10% Zn Table 1: Completed Assays from 2024 Wolf Vein Drilling Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m)* Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) Au (g/t) DV24-405 635.00 677.36 42.36 131 0.15 0.12 Main Vein 635.00 647.58 12.58 227 0.38 0.12 including 651.08 652.08 1.00 953 0.06 0.09 and 657.26 658.11 0.85 536 0.16 0.11 DV24-406 363.03 370.70 7.67 465 0.49 0.22 including 363.76 368.26 4.50 744 0.77 0.25 0.13 including 364.26 365.26 1.00 1,416 1.56 0.51 0.24 DV24-407 672.68 678.30 5.62 35 0.44 0.40 Deep Vein 706.28 709.15 2.87 189 0.25 1.11 including 707.07 708.60 1.53 303 0.27 1.21 DV24-411 522.12 523.20 1.08 332 1.24 3.29 DV24-413 698.35 699.49 1.14 337 7.11 5.34 Entire Zone 734.46 757.28 22.82 198 2.42 1.92 Main Vein 734.46 744.16 9.70 374 0.54 0.82 including 734.96 737.26 2.30 975 0.36 2.28 including 734.96 735.46 0.50 1,685 0.91 9.92 including 736.52 737.26 0.74 1,045 0.35 0.13 0.13 Pb/Zn Veins 746.70 748.77 2.07 130 2.48 14.65 0.11 Pb/Zn Veins 746.70 747.20 0.50 179 4.82 30.00 0.10 Pb/Zn Veins 751.66 753.16 1.50 126 11.14 1.83 0.14 Pb/Zn Veins 756.41 757.28 0.87 201 30.78 0.30 0.10 DV24-415 503.75 518.80 15.05 244 0.46 0.21 including 509.63 518.80 9.17 354 0.52 0.41 510.13 513.53 3.40 868 1.31 0.12 including 510.88 512.03 1.15 2,034 3.47 0.18 0.11 DV24-417 570.80 573.00 2.20 2 0.12 1.62 DV24-418 551.00 551.60 0.60 1 0.09 1.23 651.33 652.68 1.35 17 NSV 1.02 DV24-419 71.58 72.57 0.99 201 0.45 0.22 DV24-420 NSV DV24-421 757.37 779.06 21.69 379 0.64 0.66 Vein 1 757.37 767.80 10.43 556 1.02 1.00 including 759.81 760.49 0.68 1,165 1.33 1.87 including 764.09 765.76 1.67 1,804 4.36 3.10 mid Stockwork 767.80 772.81 5.01 203 0.11 0.11 including 770.59 771.25 0.66 1,185 0.28 0.07 Vein 2 772.81 779.06 6.25 225 0.44 0.53 including 778.56 779.06 0.50 1,525 1.13 1.15 Footwall Stockwork 779.06 788.75 9.69 67 0.72 4.09 DV24-425 NSV DV24-426 272.14 273.35 1.21 189 0.17 0.19 0.10 *All intervals shown are core length. Estimated true widths vary depending on intersection angles and range from 55% to 70% of core lengths, further modelling of the new interpretation is needed before true widths can be calculated. NSV = No Significant Values Exploration Drilling Areas of Exploration Drilling to follow up on areas of 2023 successes and test geological models in new areas were included in the 2024 drill plan. Significant results from the North Star Deposit and the Red Point prospect warrant follow up drilling during the 2025 program. Figure 4 Dolly Varden Property Exploration drilling area location Plan North Star Deposit Four drill holes were completed at the North Star Deposit associated with the Torbrit Deposit. These holes were oriented to test the shallow dipping mineralization at a perpendicular intersection angle than historic 1980s underground drilling. The North Star deposit is located approximately 350 meters southwest of the Torbrit Mine and is included in the current Mineral Resource Estimate. Drilling has shown that it is a continuation of stratabound mineralization along the Torbrit Horizon and that there is an increase in base metal mineralization, distal to the silver rich zone at the Torbrit Deposit. Within the mineralization intersected in the 2024 drilling, there are silver rich layers of strong base metal content, such as drill hole DV24-423 which intersected. 432 g/t Ag / 1.39% Pb / 5.28% Zn over 3.04 meters. This hole is a 35 meter offset from previously released 2023 drill hole DV23-353, that graded 138 g/t Ag / 3.50% Pb / 7.69% Zn over 3.45m. The North Star Deposit remains open for down-dip resource expansion drilling. Figure 5. North Star Area 2024 drilling plan Red Point Two drill holes were completed at the Red Point Gold Zone as follow up to 2023 drilling which intersected broad zones of quartz sericite pyrite (QSP) alteration, along with variable intensity of gold bearing quartz stockwork zones similar to the to the Homestake Ridge gold and silver deposits located 5.500 meters to the northwest along a trend of alteration and mineralized prospects. Background gold values encountered in 2023 and 2024 drilling within the alteration zone are 0.15 to 0.25 g/t Au, with higher grade gold intervals in areas of intense stockwork, such as drill hole DV24-400 which intersected 21.10 g/t Au over 0.50m, within a broader zone averaging 0.79 g/t Au over 20.15 meters. Additionally, drill hole DV24-395 intersected 2.99 g/t Au over 3.11 meters within a broader interval that averaged 0.50 g/t Au over 59.09 meters. The style of mineralization and alteration at Red Point suggest a porphyry or intrusive-related mineralization system, which can host significant mineralization at Jurassic-age deposits throughout the Golden Triangle. Insufficient drilling has been done to determine true width, estimates from intersect angles are that the true width is 80-90% of core length. Figure 6. Drill core of mineralization at Red Point from hole DV24-400. Sample interval 269.35 to 269.80m averaged 21.10 g/t Au in a wide zone of vein stockwork within strong quartz-sericite-pyrite alteration zone, hosted within Hazelton volcanic rocks. Moose Vein An additional five drill holes were completed at the Moose Vein, where previously released drill hole DV24-387 is located. Although narrow intervals of the Moose Vein were intersected in these drill holes, it appears that the silver mineralization is at a plunge angle than estimated and that the outcropping Moose vein may be the upper expression of a deeper mineralization system. Further modelling and a deeper test are planned for 2025. Chance Vein Two drill holes were completed at the Chance Vein where previously released drill hole DV24-388 is located. No significant mineralization was encountered. Ace Galena Two drill holes were completed at the Ace Galena showing, targeting anomalous lead and silver values in soil samples, located near an historic trench. A set of narrow, high grade lead and silver veins were intersected near surface and warrant follow up in 2025 (see Table 2). Silver Horde Two exploration holes were drilled at Silver Horde, located approximately 450 meters southwest of Moose Vein. These holes tested an area with potassic alteration in outcrops of Hazelton volcanic rocks at the edge of the post-mineralization sediment cover. Strong alteration was intersected with DV24-399 intersecting 108 g/t Ag and 3.88% Pb over 0.5m. Table 2: Completed 2024 Drill Hole Assays from Dolly Varden Property Exploration Target Area Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length (m)* Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) Au (g/t) Ace Galena DV24-401 67.23 68.23 1.00 134 4.24 NSV including 67.23 67.73 0.50 213 6.71 NSV Ace Galena DV24-403 83.60 85.60 2.00 17 0.79 2.00 90.88 96.34 5.46 71 1.43 0.73 including 94.12 96.34 2.22 125 1.39 0.18 106.34 108.26 1.92 289 4.33 0.18 Chance DV24-390 NSV Chance DV24-393 101.90 105.70 3.80 125 NSV 154.00 155.00 1.00 142 NSV Moose DV24-389 277.30 277.80 0.50 16 1.15 NSV Moose DV24-392 226.50 227.30 0.80 80 1.11 1.13 Moose DV24-394 136.28 137.48 1.20 418 0.62 0.29 including 136.28 136.80 0.52 704 1.16 0.44 Moose DV24-397 66.87 67.37 0.50 286 0.20 0.24 201.05 202.00 0.95 108 0.04 0.06 Moose DV24-398 NSV North Star DV24-386 NSV North Star DV24-391 356.50 361.84 5.34 16 0.38 2.03 North Star DV24-423 293.63 316.41 22.78 124 0.50 2.83 0.13 including Zn 294.70 305.60 10.90 162 0.92 4.73 including Ag 297.72 300.76 3.04 432 1.39 5.28 including Au 306.28 316.41 10.13 94 0.12 1.14 0.22 North Star DV24-424 296.50 320.20 23.70 29 0.10 0.82 0.09 including Zn 296.50 303.09 6.59 28 0.08 2.48 0.12 including Au 303.09 309.80 6.71 17 0.04 0.06 0.18 Red Point DV24-395 6.35 48.00 41.65 0.18 65.16 124.25 59.09 0.50 including 111.69 114.80 3.11 2.99 193.30 195.00 1.70 0.67 259.75 262.00 2.25 0.40 314.52 316.40 1.88 0.65 404.10 405.00 0.90 1.25 Red Point DV24-400 3.35 36.75 33.40 0.25 97.85 133.00 35.15 0.23 including 97.85 98.53 0.68 1.33 including 114.23 114.75 0.52 1.10 253.85 274.00 20.15 0.79 including 269.35 269.85 0.50 21.10 391.38 405.80 14.42 0.14 Silver Horde DV24-399 152.50 153.00 0.50 108 3.88 0.35 Silver Horde DV24-422 NSV *All intervals shown are core length. Estimated true widths vary depending on intersection angles and range from 75% to 90% of core lengths, further modelling of the new interpretation is needed before true widths can be calculated. NSV = No Significant Values Table 3: Drill hole collars for Wolf Vein holes reported in this release Hole ID Easting UTM83 (m) Northing UTM83 (m) Elev. (m) Azimuth Dip Length (m) DV24-405* 466839 6173616 449 130.5 -63 702 DV24-406 467053 6173650 380 117 -54 402 DV24-407 467053 6173650 380 125 -74 739.7 DV24-411* 466929 6173582 401 125 -66 609 DV24-413* 466839 6173616 449 130.5 -63 801 DV24-415* 466929 6173582 401 125 -66 573 DV24-417* 466929 6173582 401 125 -66 666 DV24-418* 466929 6173582 401 125 -66 708 DV24-419 467464 6173723 524 150 -60 159 DV24-420 467464 6173723 524 120 -65 102 DV24-421 467265 6172994 372 299 -58 816 DV24-425 467108 6173625 390 112 -45 342 DV24-426 467108 6173625 390 112 -52 348 *Directional drilling holes with orientation of "mother" hole collar and total length from collar; daughter holes directed off mother holes at variable orientations downhole to reach target locations. Table 4: Drill hole collars for Dolly Varden Property Exploration Drill holes reported in this release Area Hole ID Easting UTM83 (m) Northing UTM83 (m) Elev. (m) Azimuth Dip Length (m) Ace Galena DV24-401 466917 6176263 630 90 -45 150 Ace Galena DV24-403 467021 6176650 736 135 -50 252 Chance DV24-390 467674 6175858 881 170 -55 300 Chance DV24-393 467520 6175605 799 355 -55 315 Moose DV24-389 467141 6174889 750 160 -62 297 Moose DV24-392 467141 6174889 750 190 -65 294 Moose DV24-394 467050 6174879 681 160 -55 255 Moose DV24-397 467050 6174879 681 190 -30 207 Moose DV24-398 467050 6174879 681 215 -55 261 North Star DV24-386 467538 6171307 554 165 -60 402 North Star DV24-391 467538 6171307 554 160 -68 399 North Star DV24-423 467573 6171328 537 110 -53 354 North Star DV24-424 467573 6171328 537 158 -64 400.35 Red Point DV24-395 467004 6172120 617 205 -50 450 Red Point DV24-400 466858 6172228 676 220 -63 411 Silver Horde DV24-399 466834 6174627 399 175 -65 201 Silver Horde DV24-422 466724 6174704 380 182 -65 468 Quality Assurance and Quality Control The Company adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines for exploration related activities conducted on its property. Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures are overseen by the Qualified Person. Dolly Varden QA/QC protocols are maintained through the insertion of certified reference material (standards), blanks and field duplicates within the sample stream. Drill core is cut in-half with a diamond saw, with one-half placed in sealed bags and shipped to the laboratory and the other half retained on site. Third party laboratory checks on 5% of the samples are carried out as well. Chain of custody is maintained from the drill to the submittal into the laboratory preparation facility. Analytical testing was performed by ALS Canada Ltd. in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The entire sample is crushed to 70% minus 2mm (10 mesh), of which a 500 gram split is pulverized to minus 200 mesh. Multi-element analyses were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for 48 elements following a 4-acid digestion process. High grade silver testing was determined by Fire Assay with either an atomic absorption, or a gravimetric finish, depending on grade range. Au is also determined by fire assay on a 30g split with either atomic absorption, or gravimetric finish, depending on grade range. Metallic screen on a 1.0kg sample may be completed on high-grade gold samples. Qualified Person Rob van Egmond, P.Geo., Vice-President Exploration for Dolly Varden Silver, the "Qualified Person" as defined by NI43-101 has reviewed, validated and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release and supervises the ongoing exploration program at the Dolly Varden Project. About Dolly Varden Silver Corporation Dolly Varden Silver Corporation is a mineral exploration company focused on advancing its 100% held Kitsault Valley Project (which combines the Dolly Varden Project and the Homestake Ridge Project) located in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, Canada, 25kms by road to tide water. The 163 sq. km. project hosts the high-grade silver and gold resources of Dolly Varden and Homestake Ridge along with the past producing Dolly Varden and Torbrit silver mines. It is considered to be prospective for hosting further precious metal deposits, being on the same structural and stratigraphic belts that host numerous other, on-trend, high-grade deposits, such as Eskay Creek and Brucejack. Five kilometers to the East of the Kitsault Valley Project is the Big Bulk property which is prospective for porphyry and skarn style copper and gold mineralization, similar to other such deposits in the region (Red Mountain, KSM, Red Chris). Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements or forward-looking information under applicable Canadian securities legislation that may not be based on historical fact, including, without limitation, statements containing the words "believe", "may", "plan", "will", "estimate", "continue", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "potential", and similar expressions. Forward-Looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Dolly Varden to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-Looking statements or information in this release relates to, among other things, the 2022 drill program at the Kitsault Valley Project, the results of previous field work and programs and the continued operations of the current exploration program, interpretation of the nature of the mineralization at the project and that that the mineralization on the project is similar to Eskay and Brucejack, results of the mineral resource estimate on the project, the potential to grow the project, the potential to expand the mineralization and our beliefs about the unexplored portion of the property. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and assume, among other things, the ability of the Company to successfully pursue its current development plans, that future sources of funding will be available to the company, that relevant commodity prices will remain at levels that are economically viable for the Company and that the Company will receive relevant permits in a timely manner in order to enable its operations, but given the uncertainties, assumptions and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements or information. The Company disclaims any obligation to update, or to publicly announce, any such statements, events or developments except as required by law. For additional information on risks and uncertainties, see the Company's most recently filed annual management discussion & analysis ("MD&A") dated March 27, 2024, and management information circular dated May 28, 2024 (the "Circular"), both of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The risk factors identified in the MD&A and the Circular are not intended to represent a complete list of factors that could affect the Company. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. The unexpected fall of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, in Syria has created a new situation in the country. One of the challenges ahead will be to determine what happened to the thousands of disappeared and dead left by the Assad dictatorship since the attempt to start an "Arab Spring" in 2011. Syria is not the first country to be confronted to such challenge. Several countries, such as Argentina, Colombia, Guatemala or Peru (in Latin America), South Africa (in Africa), Bosnia-Herzegovina (in Europe) or Iraq (Middle East) have previously faced similar dilemmas: How to investigate what happened in a country with a recent past of violence? How far to go to bring to trial those responsible? Where are the bodies of the disappeared? Are there any disappeared still alive? The answers to these questions have been diverse. Each country is different, and models applied in South Africa, the Balkans, Iraq or Cyprus cannot be transported automatically to Syria. On the other hand, there has not been a real exercise of "lessons learned" from diverse experiences at the global level, to draw some conclusions and not to repeat the mistakes made in other contexts. The arrival of foreign organizations and governments to advise the new authorities should be handled with care. The experiences of the Balkans, Afghanistan and Iraq, to cite only the most notorious examples, have not been entirely beneficial to these societies. It's not CSI or Bones Undoubtedly, the first mistake is not to sit down with the relatives of the disappeared and the organizations that can bring them together at the table where decisions are made, and to leave them out of the process. They are too often considered only as donors of saliva/blood samples for genetic analysis or simply as companions at meetings. On the other hand, it is said locally and internationally that Syrian society is not prepared to carry out the forensic tasks involved in recovering and analyzing the thousands of bodies of the disappeared. But at the same time, there is no talks about the need to improve and train the local forensic medical system, so that Syrians themselves can make decisions, with foreign accompaniment. From a technical point of view, there are also confusing messages. Genetics alone is not going to solve the identification problems. Taking samples from relatives of the disappeared and comparing them with samples from a skeleton is not enough. In massive cases, with thousands of victims, the so-called "false positives" can occur, that is, what seems like a match between bone and a family is not. This happens due to a genetic hazardous variation. Unfortunately, identifying a body doesn't work that way. It's not CSI or Bones. The comparison should be made in a complete and interdisciplinary way, appealing to the knowledge of other scientific disciplines such as Medicine, Dentistry, Anthropology, Imaging, and Genetics. This is what recommends the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the United Nations Minnesota Protocol on the Investigation of Potentially Unlawful Death (2016), a set of international guidelines for the investigation of suspicious deaths, particularly those in which the responsibility of a State is suspected. What articulation between UN (and national) mechanisms? The next problem, even more complex, is to know who the disappeared are. Generating identity hypotheses is critical in the identification process. Who, When, Where, How and Why someone disappears are the first questions that we must ask ourselves before opening a grave. But it also implies having an investigative methodology with a deep knowledge of the conflict, the structures of the Syrian State, its modus operandi, where they took the detainees, how they disposed of the bodies, etc. In the last forty years, a significant number of countries that had a violent recent past began to review that period using different mechanisms. Local trials, truth commissions, international courts, UN commissions of inquiry, ministries of missing persons, among others. In the case of Syria, it is a little different. During all those years access of investigative mechanisms into the country was prohibited, and there were no national bodies that did that task independently. The United Nations, in an unprecedented move, created in the last 13 years, three mechanisms to investigate in Syria: the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic (created in 2011); the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to assist in the investigation and prosecution of persons responsible for the most serious crimes under International Law committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011 (created in 2016); and the Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (created in 2023). Although the latter has the mandate to investigate the disappeared, the articulation with the other two is still unclear. If the new Syrian authorities decide to create a local mechanism (using the local justice system or a new one), it is also unclear what its mandate will be, who will be in charge and how it will articulate with the UN mechanisms. Another factor that adds to the complexity of the scenario is the number of civil society organizations that represent the relatives of the disappeared. How to achieve common agreements? What will be the participation of family members in decisions? How to prioritize cases? Eight basic lessons When it comes to forced disappearances at a mass scale, as it has been the case under Assad, the almost 40 years of investigations of serious human rights violations around the world have left us with some lessons that we should not underestimate at this stage in Syria: It is needed to create a single centralized mechanism, with independence and its own budget. Real participation of victims' relatives and their representatives in decision-making must be guaranteed. Design of a National Search Plan. Opening regional offices. Create an in-house forensic team, mixing international forensic specialists and Syrian forensic specialists, building at the same time a true local training process. A multidisciplinary team, with lawyers, historians, social anthropologists, investigative police, specialist in IT and Open-Source analysis. A nationwide information campaign for family members and communities about the Search Plan. Protection of burial sites as well as any type of information about the conflict. Construction of Forensic Data Banks, not only genetic. Finally, it will be necessary to mention that this process will take years, if not decades. It cannot be solved with DNA alone, but it implies a long-term vision of the State. Actress Go Hyun Jung has been released from the hospital following major surgery after a health scare landed her in the emergency room just before Christmas. According to Xports News, the 52-year-old had been in hospital for three weeks, supported by the rest of her family, including her younger brother, who wouldn't leave her side. The actress was first rushed to the hospital on the day she was supposed to participate in the production conference for the Genie TV original drama "Namib" on December 16. Go thanked fans for their support in an emotional social media post soon after she was hospitalized. "Merry Christmas to everyone. In a photo from inside her hospital room, she wrote: "Thanks for all your concern but feeling much better." Go continued to post updates with her followers after her surgery. Another photo she posted on January 6 included the caption, "I was extremely sick, but I have now survived major surgery and am feeling much better. I am going to be cautious but also take care of myself." Go's family was a major support system while she was hospitalized. She thanked her, saying, "I'm so happy to be discharged. Brother, I'm sorry that I had to make important decisions alone as a guardian whenever I was sick. Thank you and I love you." Despite this, Go will spend some time recovering before returning to the set to film further episodes of "Namib." A source from her camp confirmed the show was wrapped without her needing further filming. Renowned actress Go Hyun Jung is known for her various films and television appearances and recently became the talk of the town as her health problems gained massive attention and concern. Choi Jung Won is currently under suspicion of infidelity following a ruling over his divorce that drew considerable public interest and controversy due to the status of the parties involved the actor was formerly a part of the male duo UN. Xports News reported that the Seoul Family Court ruled that A, the plaintiff in the divorce case, was chiefly responsible for the marriage's collapse because A had committed adultery. It was also found that A had deceived B about her whereabouts several times while meeting Choi Jung Won in Seoul, including Cheongdam and Gangnam districts. After the court decision, B told the news outlet that 11 new potential victims who Choi Jung Won allegedly hurt reached out to him. He stated, "My wife is one of them," suggesting that those individuals may have had inappropriate relationships with the actor. B claimed that Choi Jung Won had confessed to suffering from social phobia and panic disorder earlier but said such an initial statement was contradictory, as he had been seen in public and associating with other women several times. Choi Jung Won has denied all allegations of misconduct in a statement from her legal representative, claiming that the allegations of inappropriate relationships are "groundless." Choi's lawyers noted that B has already been convicted of defaming Choi in a separate criminal proceeding. They have said they plan to take further legal action against the spreaders of what they call "fake news." A is in the process of appealing the court's decision on her divorce from B. Though the court recognized the adultery between A, B, and Choi Jung Won, the focus has shifted to whether the actor must pay damages at all. With the progression of the state of affairs, both Choi Jung Won and the parties in question are predicted to be more under the public and media microscope. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - A tourist was k!lled by an elephant in front of her boyfriend while on vacation in Thailand, according to reports. Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, 22, was bathing an elephant at Koh Yao Elephant Care on Yao Yai Island on Friday, Jan. 3, when the 50-year-old animal struck her down with its trunk, according to Spanish newspaper El Mundo. Garcia, a law and international relations student at the University of Navarra in Spain, was rushed to a local hospital, where she d!ed from her injuries, local police said. Garcias boyfriend was among the eight tourists at the sanctuary. They and about 10 workers were uninjured when the elephant turned, the owner of Koh Yao Elephant Care told El Mundo. Initial reports claimed the female elephant had gored Garcia with one of its tusks. However, Spanish news outlet EFE reported that was not the case. The sanctuary, which houses three elephants, closed its doors with no planned reopening date, the owner said. Garcia, who hailed from a military family, had just completed her professional internships at Spains navy headquarters in Madrid, El Pais reported. Her body was taken to another hospital on the island of Phuket to be prepared to be taken back to Spain. Fridays k!lling marks the first fatal elephant attack of 2025, according to El Pais. There have been some 240 f@tal incidents involving the typically gentle giants in the last 12 years, including 39 last year. Just last month, a 49-year-old woman was k!lled by a wild elephant that charged her at Phu Kradueng National Park. Monday, January 6, 2025 - About 102 men were executed by the Congolese government in the past week, and 70 more are set to be executed, the countrys minister of justice has revealed. Speaking on Sunday night, January 5, 2025, Minister of Justice Mutamba, in a statement to the Associated Press, said the men, aged 18 to 35, were armed robbers and urban bandits, locally known as Kulunas, who were executed in northwest Congo at Angenga prison. Forty-five were killed in late December, and the remaining 57 were executed within the last 48 hours. Also, a flight of 70 more people from Kinshasa has arrived at Angenga, but the government hasnt commented on the status of the prisoners. Minister of Justice Mutamba added that the third batch will be executed, so the first two have already undergone the measure of execution by the death penalty. The governments decision to apply the death penalty has proved divisive. The death penalty in Congo is a sensitive issue. The country abolished it in 1981, but it was reinstated in 2006. The last execution took place in 2003 but in March 2024, the Congolese government announced the resumption of capital executions, however, the reinstated death penalty was intended to apply to military personnel accused of treason. In May, eight soldiers were sentenced to d3ath for fleeing the battlefield, and in July, 25 soldiers were convicted of similar offences. None of them is known to have been executed. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi has vowed to deal firmly with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen. This follows the ongoing abductions in the country. In a statement, Havi vowed to take legal action against Kindiki and his successor in the Interior docket Kipchumba Murkomen to book. According to Havi, he would use legal means to tackle the daunting issue of abductions in the country. "I am back in Nairobi to tackle the abduction menace. I will not be in the streets today or ever. I will be in Court for legal redress of the issue which has become a pandemic," he said on X. Further, Havi vowed to 'pursue the removal of Kindiki Kithure and Kipchumba Murkomen from the Roll of Advocates'. Kindiki is a known advocate of the High Court and the International Criminal Court (ICC), having obtained a Bachelors degree in Law (LLB) from Moi University and a Diploma in Legal Studies from the Kenya School of Law. Murkomen is also an advocate of the High Court and holds a Law degree from the University of Nairobi, a Postgraduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law, and two Master of Laws degrees from American University and the University of Pretoria. The process of removal of a legal mind from the roll of advocates is not straightforward, as it entails a grueling process involving a Disciplinary Tribunal. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, has accused the owner of social media platform, X, Elon Musk of interfering in European politics, including the German election. The French president disclosed this in a speech to French ambassadors on Monday. Macron said, many years ago, no one could imagine that X, one of the worlds largest social media networks, would declare support for what he described as a new international reactionary movement and intervene in elections, including in Germany. 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 also said in the speech that Donald Trump, the United States president-elect, knows he has a strong ally in France.. This comes 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 rightwing 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! The newspapers opinion editor later said she resigned over the piece, which appeared online and in print. Recall that the German government barely six days ago accused Musk of trying to interfere in its elections. In the build-up to the US presidential election in November last year, Musk was among the US billionaires who endorsed Trump. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Mexican authorities on Sunday said a shooting at a bar in southeastern part of the country left at least five people dead and seven wounded, the latest in a series of similar attacks in the violence-plagued country. The secretariat of security and civilian protection, in a statement, said a manhunt was launched for the perpetrators of the shooting on Saturday night in the city of Villahermosa, in Tabasco state. Five people lost their lives and seven were injured. 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. Local media said that unidentified gunmen burst into the bar La Casita Azul and opened fire at customers, leaving bloodied bodies strewn on the floor. Tabasco, the home to oil production facilities, has seen an increase in violent crime in recent months. In November, six people were killed and 10 wounded in another armed attack on a bar in Villahermosa. The attack came two weeks after 10 people were feared killed 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. According to official figures, drug-related violence has seen more than 450,000 people killed in Mexico since the government deployed the army to combat trafficking in 2006. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua now wants the International Criminal Court (ICC) to come for President William Ruto and his allies. This is after it emerged that Rutos government has contracted the outlawed Mungiki sect to instill fear in Mt. Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election. As a result, Gachagua has directed Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia to file a petition calling for the ICC to investigate the government over the use of the outlawed Mungiki faction. In a statement, Gachagua alleged that the government, through Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, is covertly sponsoring the outlawed group with the intent to cause havoc among the people of Mt Kenya. While Gachagua did not mention names, he referred to the December 31 political rally, led by the controversial pastor and political leader Maina Njenga. During the meeting, Njenga, who has in the past been linked with Mungiki, revealed that he will be taking Gachagua head-on. This announcement has triggered Gachagua, who, in response, unleashed a scathing critique of the government while pointing to the past incidents involving the outlaw group. ''The ICC should not wait until crimes against humanity have been committed. This gang is known to have committed crimes against humanity,'' Gachagua asserted. ''Why can't the police instead of giving protection to that criminal gang as directed by the Deputy President deal with the alcohol issue?'' he added. Consequently, the former DP has directed his ally, Kaguchia, to document all the crimes committed by the Mungiki sect in the earlier years and forward the same to the court The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, January 7, 2025 -Youthful businessman Gibson Murage of Modern Pacific Furniture has given an update on the ongoing investigations into the mysterious fire that razed down his store on December 18, 2024. Read the full statement. Update on the Modern Furniture Pacific Fire Incident Date: December 18, 2024 We would like to provide an update regarding the fire incident that occurred at Murage Modern Pacific Furniture on December 18, 2024, which resulted in the destruction of machinery valued at 50 million Kenyan shillings. Incident Overview: Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire ignited in one of our workshops early in the morning, where we store most of our furniture-making materials. At the time, our workers were actively engaged in their duties on the ground floor. CCTV footage captured the moment the fire started, until the moment power was disconnected by KPLC. In the subsequent footage, employees can be seen rushing in with fire extinguishers, desperately trying to contain the fire, which threatened to spread to adjacent warehouses. Persons of Interest: Notably, two unidentified individuals were observed leaving the warehouse shortly before the fire began. This footage, taken from an adjacent building, shows them walking away casually while others rushed in to help. We are treating these individuals as persons of interest in our ongoing investigation. Response Efforts: Our staff, workers from neighboring warehouses, and security personnel managed to break into the showroom to salvage furniture as the workshop burned. The Kiambu Fire Department responded promptly, and the fire was contained and extinguished without further incident. Authorities, including the Ruiru OCPD, OCS, DCI officers, and Scene of Crime Detectives, have visited the site to document the scene for further investigation into the fire's cause. Missing Employee: We regret to inform you that one of our casual employees, Joseph Ng'ang'a Muhia, has been reported missing. CCTV footage shows him leaving the premises the day before the fire, and he has not been seen since. Authorities thoroughly searched the debris and confirmed that there were no human remains found, aside from a dog's carcass, which has been examined by the DCI's Forensics department in the presence of our staff and Muhia's family before being disposed of. According to one of the firefighters from the Kiambu Fire Department, two dogs belonging to Maasai (soldiers) guarding nearby buildings were trapped inside. One escaped, while the other was overwhelmed by the fire. Summary: 1. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, pending a comprehensive report from KPLC. 2. We are actively seeking the two unidentified men as persons of interest. 3. The burnt warehouse remains an active crime scene and has not been disturbed since the incident. 4. Joseph Ng'ang'a Muhia is reported missing, and we are assisting his family in tracing his last known movements. 5. Operations at our Ruiru Branch have resumed and normalized. We appeal to anyone with credible information regarding the events of that morning or the whereabouts of Joseph Ng'ang'a Muhia to contact the nearest police station. Your assistance is invaluable as we seek to understand what transpired during this unfortunate incident. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has claimed that Kenya Kwanza Alliance leaders are plotting his impeachment. Speaking in Endebess during the burial of former Cabinet Minister Nathan Munoko, Natembeya alleged that senior Kenya Kwanza Alliance leaders are planning to bribe MCAs to impeach him, just as they did with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Natembeya said he is not scared of the impeachment plot. "I hear some people are planning to impeach me. It is fine. Let them go ahead," he said. He insisted that the law should be followed and not flawed to suit the interest of individuals. He accused some leaders of intolerance and putting barriers in political competition to maintain the status quo. "This culture of intolerance among the political class has to stop. Some people have put barriers in the political space to selfishly continue eating when they have failed to execute their responsibilities," said Natembeya. The governor argued that certain regions have been discriminated against in the allocation of national resources. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has announced that the government has begun tracking defaulters of the financial inclusion fund, popularly known as the Hustler Fund, to recover disbursed funds. Speaking on Monday, Oparanya said 94 percent of the 22 million borrowers defaulted in making their payments. Oparanya stated that the defaults have limited small businesses' access to short-term loans, thereby hindering their growth. For those 19 million people, I am coming for you to make sure that you pay so that other borrowers can benefit too, he said in a statement. As of November 30, 2023, the fund had seen high uptake, with the government reporting disbursements of Sh39.7 billion to 21.8 million people and mobilizing Sh2 billion in savings. Total repayments stood at Sh28.75 billion. In December last year, President William Ruto announced that the fund had disbursed Sh60 billion to Kenyans since its launch in 2022. The impressive 2023 performance prompted President Ruto to announce, during the fund's first-anniversary launch, an increase in the borrowing limit by up to 100%. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, January 7, 2025 It seems President William Ruto is winning the war against the Gen Zs who have been criticizing him and his inept government. This is after the youth who were abducted and released by alleged state agencies vowed to quit social media after what they went through. Speaking during an interview, popular cartoonist Gideon Kibet, alias Kibet Bull, vowed to cut down on his online activity following his harrowing experience. Kibet, a vocal government critic who was allegedly abducted on December 24 due to his outspoken views on social media, was released Monday by his alleged abductors. Kibet expressed fear for his safety and that of his family. After what happened, I have to minimise the activity on social media," he said. However, he did not reveal details about where he was being held and the experience in their hands during the 12 days. I cannot talk about it now, he said. He was freed alongside five others who had also been abducted under unclear circumstances. In a social media post on his X account, the cartoonist said he was dropped in Luanda Vihiga County at dawn on Monday. The release of the five coincided with the planned protests by some activists to denounce abduction and forced disappearance. The abduction had continued to spark widespread outrage, with rights groups decrying the act as an attack on free speech. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - South Korean investigators trying to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol have asked for an extension to the arrest warrant that was due to expire later today. The embattled leader remains at in his residence surrounded by loyal security forces. He has defiantly refused questioning three times before a failed arrest attempt saw hundreds of his protective guards block investigators trying to detain him over a bungled martial law decree last month.Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) said they will ask for an extension to the warrant, due to expire at the end of today (3pm Irish time). "The validity of the warrant expires today. We plan to request an extension from the court today," said Lee Jae-seung, CIO deputy director, in a briefing to reporters. He added they had asked for the police's help to detain Mr Yoon because of the difficulties investigators had faced, and would consult them on the timing of the warrant extension. Police have yet to accept the request. Mr Yoon faces prison or, at worst, the death penalty if arrested after briefly suspending civilian rule and plunging South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades, but both he and his supporters have remained defiant. "The Presidential Security Service will protect the President, and we will protect the Presidential Security Service till midnight," said Kim Soo-yong, 62, one of the protest organisers. "If they get another warrant, we will come again." The initial warrant was issued on the grounds that Mr Yoon has refused to emerge for questioning over his martial law decree. His lawyers have repeatedly said the warrant is "unlawful" and "illegal", pledging to take further legal action against it. The head of Mr Yoon's presidential security service also said he would not allow investigators to arrest the suspended president. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz has accused Hezbollah of failing to comply with the terms of a ceasefire agreement that took effect on November 27, following two months of intense conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Katz, speaking after a visit to Israels northern military command, warned that continued breaches by Hezbollah could prompt military action. He stated that Hezbollah had not withdrawn beyond the Litani River in southern Lebanon as required by the agreement. 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 stated. The ceasefire outlines several key terms, including Hezbollahs withdrawal north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the Israeli border, the dismantling of Hezbollahs military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, deployment of the Lebanese army alongside UN peacekeepers in the south as Israel gradually withdraws within a 60-day timeframe. Katz also criticized the lack of action by the Lebanese army in dismantling Hezbollahs weapons and eliminating terrorist infrastructure in the region. The United Nations peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, has been tasked with overseeing the ceasefire alongside a committee comprising representatives from Israel, Lebanon, France, and the United States. However, UNIFIL has also accused both parties of violations, further complicating the fragile peace. On Saturday, January 4, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, on the other hand, accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, stating that the group was prepared to retaliate even before the 60-day deadline for Israeli withdrawal. We have said that we are giving an opportunity to prevent Israeli violations and to implement the agreement, and we will exercise patience, Qassem sai Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Deputy President Kithure Kindiki embarked on an inspection tour yesterday of the Kenya Leather Industrial Park (KLIP) in Kenanie, Machakos County. This came barely two days after he returned from the much-deserved vacation which had sparked speculations about his whereabouts. Taking to his official X account after conducting the inspection, Kindiki reiterated the governments commitment to transforming Kenyas economy through value addition and industrial growth. DP Kindiki emphasized the strategic importance of the leather industry in creating jobs and boosting the countrys economic output. The second in command stated that the establishment of KLIP is part of the governments interventions for value addition and manufacturing, to push the annual contribution of the leather industry from the current Ksh15 billion to Ksh175 billion and industry jobs from 17,000 currently to 100,000. Kindiki further highlighted key infrastructural developments at KLIP. The DP pointed out the completion of a common effluent treatment plant, which will clean wastewater from factories along Mombasa Road, Athi River, and those at KLIP itself. Additionally, four warehousestwo for leather production and two for finished leather productsare complete. However, work is ongoing to finalize water and electricity reticulation systems. Deployment of permanent policing services is also being expedited to ensure security and operational readiness by March 31, 2025, the deadline set by President William Ruto. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Narc-Kenya Party leader Martha Karua has won the first victory against President Yoweri Musevenis administration. This is after the Ugandan Law Council allowed her to represent Opposition Leader Kizza Besigye at a court martial in Uganda. The council handed her a temporary law practicing certificate in Ugandan jurisdiction. Ugandan Law Council convened a special meeting yesterday to reconsider her application after it was initially rejected on December 6, 2024. The approval means that Karua can now represent Besigye in an ongoing case in Ugandas Court Martial. The Law Council has granted a temporary Practicing Certificate to Hon. Martha Karua, following her reapplication through the Uganda Law Society, the law society's statement read in part. Following the granting of the practicing certificate, Karua will be able to represent her clients on Ugandan soil in court effectively starting January 7, 2025. To practice in Uganda, Karua was required to lodge a formal application since she is from a different legal jurisdiction. Besigyes case drew significant attention, both regionally and internationally, as concerns over political freedoms and judicial processes in East Africa come under scrutiny. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Mathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi has urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding the ongoing abductions in the country. In a Facebook post on Monday, Wamumbi, who is a fierce critic of the former DP, stated that he had received intelligence from credible sources that Gachagua was involved in the abductions of young Kenyans to portray President William Rutos government in bad light. Wamumbi urged DCI to conduct a search at Gachaguas Olive Hotel, claiming the hotel was being used to stage fake abductions to incite unrest. I have information that meetings are being held where youths feign abductions and are held incommunicado by the chief architect, Gachagua himself, he said. Wamumbi also criticized Gachagua for attacking Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. Gachagua should stop attacking kanja. He is a professional police officer out to maintain law and order, said Wamumbi. At the same time, the MP expressed sympathy for parents dealing with the difficult issue of missing children, as he warned against groups seeking to spread misinformation or incite conflict among Kenyans. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2024 - Renowned Nairobi lawyer, Ahmednasir Abdullahi, has blasted controversial lawyer, Miguna Miguna, for criticizing President William Rutos administration. For the past year, Miguna, who is based in Toronto, Canada, has been criticizing President William Ruto's administration, accusing it of corruption and introducing dictatorship in the country. In a post on X on Monday, Ahmednasir, a supporter of Ruto, criticized Miguna, stating that at 63 years old, Miguna has no job and relies on the Canadian government's generosity for food stamps and other necessities. Look at this IDIOT. He is 63 years old. He is jobless in the freezing weather of Toronto. "He is broke and broken. He can't put food on the table for his family. "He relies solely on the excellent safety nets Canada has put in place for the elderly and unemployed. " Instead of addressing these crippling personal challenges, he yaps like the old puppy," Ahmednasir wrote on X on Monday. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - A missing 21-year-old woman, Ayabonga Mjilo, was found m8rdered and buried in a shallow grave in eNanda, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Mjilo was reported missing on Monday, 23 December 2024, after she was last seen leaving a restaurant in Umhlanga, KZN on Christmas Day. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, who confirmed the incident said that a 37-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Mjilo. Netshuunda said the woman was last seen leaving a restaurant in Umhlanga with a male companion in the early hours of December 25,2024 and a case of kidnapping was opened after she did not return home. Thorough police investigations uncovered the identity of the man who was seen leaving the establishment with the missing woman, he said. "During the investigations it was discovered that the man, who was her manager at work, took her to his home in Amaotana area in Inanda." Netshiunda said the two reportedly had an altercation and the man allegedly strangled her to d3ath and buried her body in his yard. The suspect was arrested on Saturday morning, January 4, 2025. Police said he will appear in the Durban Magistrate's Court on charges of kidnapping, murder and defeating the ends of justice. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - The National Police Service (NPS) has confirmed that four abductees including Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti, who mysteriously disappeared in December last year have been found alive. In a statement, Spokesperson Resila Onyango announced that the police service would reach out to the families of the four abductees for support and investigations. According to the police spokesperson, Bernard Kavuli who was reported missing at Ngong' Police Station presented himself at Moi's Bridge Police Station today and is currently assisting the officers with investigations. Similarly, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Rony Kiplagat whose abductions were reported to the Embu, Kabete, and Thogoto Police Stations respectively have already been reunited with their families. While speaking to journalists, the police boss announced that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) already commenced probing cases of missing persons with some of the cases still pending in court. Onyango went ahead to urge members of the public to collaborate with security agencies by providing any information that may aid in investigations or tracing the missing people. All information is helpful and can be reported to the nearest police station or our toll-free lines 999, 911, 112 or FichuakwaDCI 0800722203, she remarked. The National Police Service remains committed to ensuring that all these matters are thoroughly investigated to their logical conclusions, she added. Onyango's assurance comes hours after reports emerged that Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Ronny Kiplagat and Benard Kavuli had been found alive in different places. The four disappeared on December 21 after allegedly being abducted by unknown people, despite concerns, the police service distanced itself from their alleged abductions. The Kenyan DAILY POST Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - The National Police Service (NPS) has announced that it has begun interrogating Kenyans who were freed by their abductors on Monday. In a statement, the NPS Spokesperson Resila Onyango said Benard Kavuli Musyimi had already presented himself to the police and was assisting the police with investigations into the abductions. Following the recent reported cases of suspected abductions of persons in the country, the National Police Service wishes to update the public on four cases reported in December 2024 as follows: Bernard Kavuli Musyimi, who was reported missing at Ngong Police Station, presented himself at Mois Bridge Police Station today and is assisting the investigators with further information, read the statement in part. NPS noted that Billy Wanyiri Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Rony Kiplagat, who were reported missing at Embu Police Station, Kabete Police Station, and Thogoto Police Post respectively, have reunited with their respective families We wish to assure the public that our officers will reach out to them and their families and give them all the necessary support as we seek further information to assist ongoing investigations, NPS remarked. The Service also announced that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is investigating all cases of missing persons in the country, with most of the cases currently pending before the court and others under active investigation. The Kenyan DAILY POST Monday, January 6, 2025 - Pope Francis has urged a group of nuns with vinegar faces to steer clear of gossiping and not to speak with the Devil in an off-the-cuff rant. The pope, 88, spoke to a group of Dominican nuns from the Union of St Catherine of Siena of the Missionaries to 'distance' themselves from tales. He warned them that their faces werent helping bring people to the church and to adopt a lifestyle that is friendly and loving towards everyone. Many times in my life, I have encountered nuns with a vinegar face, and this is not friendly, the pope said, per local media. This is not something that helps to attract people. He then advised them to avoid the rumour mill. Please, distance yourself from gossip, he asked. Gossip kills, gossip poisons. Please, no gossiping among you, none. And to ask this of a woman is heroic but, come on, lets move forward and no gossip. Pope Francis then urged the nuns to spread the lords word and speak with everyone but to have no dialogue with the Devil. Please, speak with everyone except the Devil, he added. The Devil enters the community, he sees the jealousies, all those things that belong to all humans, not just women, everyone, thats where the Devil goes. No dialogue with the Devil, understood? We dont speak with the Devil, His Holiness went on. He thanked the nuns for their work at the school and urged them to be heralds of affability, a gift of the Spirit, and joy, living every encounter with radiant gratitude for the other in their sacred uniqueness. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Popular silhouette cartoonist Gideon Kibet, also known as Kibet Bull, has called on the government to respect freedom of speech or uphold the rule of law when addressing criticism. Kibet, renowned for his viral caricatured silhouettes of President William Ruto, was released by his abductors on January 6 after being kidnapped in Nairobi on December 24, 2024. Narrating his ordeal on Monday evening, Kibet said that he was dropped off at Luanda in Vihiga County in the wee hours of Monday morning and opted to seek a temporary aboard as he planned for his journey back home. "At around 3 or 4 am I found myself about 5 kilometers from Luanda and I found a place to stay for my safety," he told NTV. Kibet said he plans to tone down his social media activity as he recovers from his 13-day abduction. However, remaining cagey about what he was subjected to, he urged the government to desist from using abductions to tame those criticizing the state and uphold the law. "Abduction is real, all I can urge the government to do is to allow freedom of speech or they use the rule of law to prosecute someone," he added. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Ukraine has launched a counterattack in the southern Russian border region of Kursk after months of offensive actions by Moscow, warning that Russia is getting what it deserves. The Kursk offensive the first ground invasion of Russia by a foreign power since World War II took Russia and Ukraines allies by surprise when it was launched. Kyivs troops advanced quickly, though Russia eventually began to push their forces back; the line of control has not changed dramatically in recent months. Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation, an official body, said Ukrainian forces had launched surprise attacks against Russian forces in several locations across Kursk, months after launching its incursion in the region. In a short Telegram post on Sunday night, January 2025, the head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, said: Kursk region, good news, Russia is getting what it deserves. The Ukrainian military first launched an incursion into Kursk in August and has held much of the territory it took, despite efforts by Russian and recently deployed North Korean troops to drive Ukrainian units back across the border. The Russian Defense Ministry said Sunday that the Ukrainians had launched counterattacks to stop a Russian offensive, as reported by the official TASS news agency. It said that both had been repelled, adding that a Ukrainian assault including two tanks and 12 armoured vehicles had been defeated near the village of Berdin, some 15 kilometres (9 miles) from the border. The ministry said air power had been used against Ukrainian forces in several areas Also, 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. On Saturday, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky 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 is normally several hundred troops. Russian military blogs, which often provide reliable reporting on the Ukraine conflict, acknowledged the fighting on Sunday. One said that the Ukrainians were pushing north towards Berdin. The enemy has thrown reserves into the offensive in Kursk region, said one blog Sunday. For the breakthrough, the AFU covered the area with powerful radio electronic warfare systems, hampering the work of our UAVs (drones), the blog said. There are small arms battles, our artillery and tanks are actively working against the enemy. A second blog said the Ukrainians had also landed paratroopers and intensified fighting in other directions. In this offensive the enemy uses mine clearance trawls, tanks and other armored vehicles, the blog said, adding that frosty ground was enabling the attack, but that was not expected to last. It added that Russian bombers were in action. Ukrainian and Western assessments say that some 11,000 North Korean troops are deployed in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces occupy swathes of territory after staging the cross-border incursion. Russian President Vladimir Putin declined to say when Russia would recapture the southern Kursk region after a phone-in question at his year-end news conference last month. 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. One possible motive behind Kyivs decision to enter Russia was to improve its negotiating position ahead of any potential future ceasefire negotiations. Incoming US President Donald Trump has said he would end the war in 24 hours, but not how, and has refused to answer questions over if he will continue to give military aid to Ukraine when he becomes president. Monday, January 6, 2025 - Russia has vowed retaliation on Ukraine after claiming to have shot down eight US-made ATACMS missiles fired by Ukraine on Saturday morning, January 4. The Russian government sees the use of such missiles, which have a range of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles), as a major escalation. The countrys air defenses shot down the eight ballistic missiles alongside 72 aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Russias Ministry of Defense said. It added that these actions by the Kyiv regime, which is supported by Western curators, will be met with retaliation. The statement said several drones were destroyed in the Leningrad region in the north-west and one in Kursk, where Ukraine launched a surprise attack late last summer. The outgoing US President Joe Biden approved Kyivs use of ATACMS in November saying in part it was in response to Russia expanding the conflict by deploying North Korean troops. Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to respond to Ukrainian strikes using ATACMS with Russias new nuclear-capable ballistic missile Oreshnik. Last month, Putin suggested that it could be fired at the capital Kyiv as a test of Western-supplied air defense systems. The first and only launch of the experimental weapon targeted Ukraines Dnipro region on the morning of November 21. The Ukrainian drone attacks forced temporary restrictions to be introduced at an airport in St. Petersburg, Russian state media agency TASS reported. The governor of Leningrad oblast, Aleksandr Drozdenko, said in a statement on Telegram that the night and morning of January 4 were record-breaking in terms of the number of UAVs destroyed, with four shot down over his region. A Ukrainian security official, Andrii Kovalenko, said a seaport in Leningrad was targeted, calling it an instrument of economic and military survival for Russia in isolation. Russias defense ministry said on Saturday that its forces had taken control of the village of Nadiya in Ukraines eastern Luhansk region. In Donetsk, the hub of Pokrovsk is under growing Russian pressure as Ukrainian forces lose ground to the south and east of the town. Ukraine is also concerned that the incoming Trump administration could cut vital military aid; Trump himself has vowed to end the conflict. Tuesday, January 7, 2024 - Police have arrested suspects behind the theft of transformers after an intelligence-led operation. The suspects dismantle transformers at night and sell each at 200,000 to two businesswomen based in Eldoret City. The rogue traders have been identified and one is already in police custody. The suspects are believed to be behind the vandalism of KPLC transformers in Uasin Gishu and Nandi counties. See photos. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 The alleged abduction and the subsequent release of cartoonist Kibet Bull has taken a new twist. This is after it emerged he may have faked his own abduction just to trigger a revolution against President William Rutos government. This is according to the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations of the National Assembly, Nelson Koech, who questioned the latest spate of abductions after four alleged abductees were released. Someone is playing a game. It looks to me like someone is staging an act to trigger serious events, Koech said. Speaking during an interview, Koech questioned the abduction claims, insisting that the details do not add up. There is something terribly wrong, he asserted. How do you party after you have been abducted? Where do you get the energy? How do you look so clean-shaven, still have money, and still go and afford a beer? Koech asked while averring to the release of cartoonist Gideon Kibet, alias Kibet Bull. On Monday, four Kenyans who had allegedly been abducted and held at undisclosed locations for half a month were released. The four are cartoonist Gideon Kibet, alias Kibet Bull, his brother Ronny Kiplangat, Billy Mwangi, a college student, Bernard Kavuli, a content creator, and Peter Muteti. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Head of Uganda's military, who is also the son of longstanding President Yoweri Museveni, has threatened to behead the country's most prominent opposition leader. Gen.Muhoozi Kainerugaba, widely regarded as the heir apparent to his father, is no stranger to controversy, frequently making provocative posts on social media. In 2022, he faced backlash after threatening to invade Kenya, a statement he later apologised for, claiming some posts were intended ironically. Kainerugaba took to X on Sunday evening to say his father, whom he referred to by the honorific Mzee, was the only person preventing him from acting against Wine. "Kabobi knows the only person protecting him from me is my father. If Mzee was not there, I would cut off his head today!" he wrote. Reacting to the threat, Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, responded by saying, The threat by Musevenis son (who also heads Uganda's military) to behead me is not something I take lightly, given that many have been killed by him and his father, and considering their several attempts at my life. I refuse to be intimidated by the cowardly regime. The world is watching. 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. Wine, a popular musician-turned-politician and President Yoweri Museveni's strongest opponent, has made some serious accusations against the regime. 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. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 - Ukrainian armed forces on Sunday night began a surprise offensive in Russias Kursk region. This was in an apparent attempt to regain the initiative on the battlefield before Donald Trumps imminent return to the White House, according to The Guardian UK. Video emerged on social media showing Ukrainian armoured columns advancing across snowy fields towards the village of Bolshoe Soldatskoe, which is located northeast of the Ukrainian-held Russian town of Sudzha. Vehicles could also be seen driving through empty, rustic settlements. Russian military bloggers reported fierce fighting between the sides, while Ukraines general staff said 42 combat clashes took place on Sunday in the Kursk area, with 12 continuing. Reports, yet to be confirmed, said that Ukrainian troops had entered the Russian hamlets of Berdin and Novosotnitskii. Recall that 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. Former patrons and employees, and people who live and work in Allentown, expressed similar feelings as they looked upon the charred ruins of Mulligans Brick Bar this week. The common sentiment: Oh, no. Not again. The Brick Bar and its historic building at 229 Allen St. was just dart-throwing distance from the Old Pink, another beloved Allentown bar with decades of history that was destroyed by fire, just months ago. The neighborhood, which has undergone a physical transformation in the past decade, is once again grieving, and wondering whats next. Preservationists and at least one architect and developer had hoped that some of the Mulligans Brick Bar building could be saved and reused. City officials and the owner initially decided Monday that it couldn't be salvaged, then announced Monday night that demolition work, scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, would be delayed until 9 a.m. Wednesday. In a statement Monday night, Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon declared: After conversations with all interested parties, including the building owner, Preservation Buffalo Niagara and community representatives, I have decided to place a temporary pause on the demolition of 229 Allen Street (Mulligan's Brick Bar). This pause will allow for further discussions to explore potential stabilization options for the building. Should a viable solution not be reached, demolition will proceed as planned on Wednesday." In a statement included with the mayor's earlier press release, owner Kim Rossi said: "To honor the bars legacy, I will be donating items with historic significance that can be salvaged to the Buffalo History Museum so that its story can live on. "On behalf of myself and my employees," she continued, "I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Scanlon and his team, our Allentown neighbors, and everyone who has supported Mulligans Brick Bar throughout the years. This was never just my bar it belonged to all of you. The memories we made together will always be cherished, and I cannot thank the community enough for your unwavering support. In his earlier announcement, the mayor gave an update on the cause of the fire. He said that after an investigation by the Buffalo Fire Department, assisted by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the cause "has been officially ruled as undetermined, and is being classified as accidental, most likely the result of electrical or mechanical malfunction." Meanwhile, customers, former employees, as well as neighborhood boosters and developers, were still assessing the damage and contemplating the future. Luke Maving, who is now tending bar at Allen Street Hardware Bar and Cafe, on the same block as Mulligans, began his career a dozen years ago at the Old Pink when he was fresh out of high school. Aside from the shock of a second, devastating fire that destroyed a business, Maving said he is worried about friends who lost their jobs when the Old Pink burned down and found new jobs at Mulligans. I just feel bad, like a lot of the guys that worked with me at the Pink, they went to the Brick Bar after (the Old Pink burned down), and then the same thing happened to them twice in a matter of months. Thats just terrible. I know a couple great guys without a job, again, Maving said. The early Sunday morning fire swept through the Brick Bar, bringing the roof down onto the structure and left it a burned out wreck. Fire department officials called Sunday for at least a partial emergency demolition. Irwin Cook had patronized the Old Pink almost daily, he said, until it burned down. Then he started going to Mulligans Brick Bar. On Monday, he was seated at the bar of a third location Allen Street Hardware where he tried to process the latest, sad news. I dont know whats going on. Two bars in six months. Its just sad, said Cook, who would like to see another bar open at Mulligans location. The Old Pink at 223 Allen St. was demolished last June. John W. Burns, 40, was charged with arson in that fire. Just last week, Burns pleaded not guilty to arson and related charges in federal court. Burns has been held since September in a residential treatment center for drug and mental health issues. In Allentown, neighbors, preservationists and business owners now wonder what is next for Allen Street, which has been undergoing a $13.4 million multiyear reconstruction project that began in March 2019. The massive project was designed to make the popular strip more welcoming and accessible for visitors to its shops, restaurants and bars. Now, in the wake of the latest devastation, people are talking about the emotional stakes of figuring out how to move forward. The Old Pink and Mulligans Brick Bar have been around for decades, said Jonathan White of the Allentown Association, a neighborhood group. Your grandmother went there with her friends. Your grandfather went there with his friends. Your parents went there with their friends. When you were in college, you would meet your friends at the Brick Bar. You created these memories. And you didnt just come from Allentown. You didnt just come from the West Side of Buffalo or the East Side of Buffalo. You came from all around Western New York to these destination locations that were known as a place where friends gather and create memories, White said. These are devastating losses that strike at the heart of the community, and the reason for that is because the losses resound far beyond the Allentown neighborhood, he said. Bernice Radle with Preservation Buffalo Niagara outlined two options for Mulligans Brick Bar. She said it would be understandable if the whole structure needs to be razed. But she held out hope for options, if some of the historic brick facade could be saved. But then the second thing, which I think is the better option, is if we can stabilize the facade, retain some of the brick, then what happens is that parcel has the ability to access historic tax credits. Its huge because it means 40 to 50% depending on the scope and the construction budget, etc., that project then could retain 40 to 50% of the project could be paid for via the historic tax credit program, she said. The Allentown Association has been working very closely with Preservation Buffalo Niagara to work with the city to restore as much of the Brick Bar building as possible, and it may just mean retaining the historic facade, White said. Preservation Buffalo Niagara brought in an engineer who reviewed the Brick Bar site and submitted a preliminary outline to the city of Buffalo detailing how the facade could be braced and preserved, White said. The organization also is looking for the city to use its power to prevent an emergency demolition to see if it is possible to retain the facade so that whatever ultimately is built as new construction behind the facade, the historic fabric of the block is retained. The City of Buffalo Preservation Board has the authority in the charter to review and approve or deny all demolition permits in the city of Buffalo, and by doing that, we just put a pause on it instead of a kneejerk reaction to demolish it because there was a fire, Radle said. At the Old Pink site, the association would like to see new construction there that is mixed use and enlivens the street, said White, of the Allentown Association. That can be done in many ways, particularly as a mixed-use building. People, I think, just often think to enliven the street do you want another bar? Do you want a restaurant? Well, the answer is, maybe, maybe we dont, he said. He offered another example of an iconic business that has disappeared. The Towne Restaurant, at the corner of Allen Street and Elmwood Avenue, closed abruptly in August 2023. In the Towne Restaurant, which has been enlivening the street for 50 years through its restaurant, is now going to be a dental practice. It will not only have the dentist and the hygienist and the technicians, but it will have all the patients, the families who are coming into that practice every single day, right? Those individuals will be enlivening the street because you come into work, and what do you do in the afternoon? You go out to lunch. What do you do after work? You meet your friends so with a mixed use building you can do a design that brings businesses onto the street level with housing above. Steve Carmina, a preservationist architect and developer, fought to save 110-118 South Park Ave. in the Cobblestone District following a destructive fire there. His firm provided pro bono services, including completion of the building assessment, programming and supervision for the selective demolition at the site, Carmina said. He said structural engineers looked at the Brick Bar. Unfortunately, the Old Pink was a wood, mostly wood frame building," Carmina said, "and there was really nothing that could save that. It was gone, and its unfortunate, but it wasnt a building that could be stabilized. On the other hand, at the Brick Bar most of the four walls are standing. With those conditions, it looks like everything is still intact and possibly could be stabilized and rebuilt. FREENOW, Irelands No. 1 taxi app, has called for an expansion of the Wheelchair Accessible SPSV Grant Scheme to help more taxi drivers buy or convert accessible vehicles and continue to improve accessibility. The National Transport Authority (NTA) opened the WAV Grant Scheme 2025 for applications on Monday (January 6). The 2025 WAV Grant Scheme will have two rounds of applications, with round two planned to open in July. In 2024, the Grant Scheme received a record 2,800 applications. All funding was allocated, and applications were closed by the end of January. The NTA is also offering taxi drivers free training on the use of WAVs to develop driver knowledge and skills and increase passenger standards. The WAV requirement and WAV Grant Scheme have helped increase the number of wheelchair-accessible taxis in Ireland from 850 in 2014 to over 4,000 in 2024. As a key component of Ireland's public transport system and the only door-to-door service, it is vital that taxis are accessible to all. FREENOW fully supports the National Transport Authority's (NTA) requirement for new taxi licenses to be issued for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs), ensuring the taxi fleet meets the needs of those with disabilities. FREENOW has recently partnered with Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) to raise funds through its Round Up to Donate feature in the app. Passengers can round up their fare to the nearest euro, with the difference going towards supporting IWA's work, including everything from accessible transport to community-based services, sporting opportunities and youth programmes. CEO of Irish Wheelchair Association, Ann Marie OGrady, said: Were delighted to see the Wheelchair Accessible Grant Scheme open again for 2025, and we encourage all taxi drivers to look at applying to buy or convert to an accessible vehicle. We strongly support the NTA requirement for all new taxi licences to be wheelchair accessible and the WAV Grant has been essential making taxis more accessible. Despite the improvements, people who need wheelchair accessible taxis are still having difficulty finding them and more support is needed. Ambers One Million Stars Ireland project celebrated its fifth birthday recently with the news that the national community arts project has achieved its halfway target of 500,000 stars. Each star woven by a volunteer star weaver represents light, hope and solidarity against domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV). 84,000 of these stars were hand woven by star weaving volunteers living in Kilkenny. The project launched in Kilkenny in December 2019 when 10 stars were woven by volunteers at Newpark Close FRC. Over the last five years, the project has grown nationwide with star weaving communities now in each of the 26 counties. READ NEXT: BREAKING: Kilkenny school to close again on Wednesday due to 'hazardous' conditions In 2023, the first stars were woven in Northern Ireland in collaboration with The Ending Gender Based Violence Against Women and Girls Team at the Northern Ireland Executive at Stormont. TDs and Senators from the main political parties have also woven stars with the One Million Stars project in Leinster House. The projects values of inclusivity and volunteerism were acknowledged by President and Mrs Sabina Higgins at an event at Aras an Uachtarain earlier this year. Many of the stars woven for the project are curated into a travelling art installation titled LOVE, which has been displayed at various sites across Kilkenny city since 2019. In 2024, LOVE travelled outside Kilkenny for the first time to Carlow and Waterford. There are plans for the installation, which contains tens of thousands of hand-woven stars, to travel to other counties in 2025. We started with 10 stars hand woven in Kilkenny five years ago. Star weaving volunteers across the country have now collectively woven half a million stars, which demonstrates the power of connection and working towards a shared goal. Thank you to the volunteers who weave at home and those who weave in schools, organisations, associations, businesses, community groups, domestic abuse and other services and in many Volunteer Centres across the country for engaging with our project and helping us to shine a light on all forms of gender-based violence, said Siobhan McQuillan, Project Lead, Ambers One Million Stars project. A special thank you to the team at Kilkenny Volunteer Centre for their ongoing commitment to the project. We hope reaching this significant milestone of 500,000 stars in five years will encourage our star weaving volunteers to keep going and inspire more people to get involved! continued Siobhan. Ambers One Million Stars Ireland project is an award winning, inclusive community arts project connecting communities across Ireland in solidarity against domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV). The project was brought to Ireland and is directed here by Art Therapist Siobhan McQuillan working with Amber Womens Refuge. Our project supports a core recommendation of the Implementation Plan for Zero Tolerance the Third National Strategy to tackle DSGBV, that of raising public awareness of DSGBV in all its forms and across all groups in society. Each of the stars woven by project volunteers is a visual petition against gender-based violence. This sends the powerful message to victim-survivors of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence that they are not alone. It also sends a message to the perpetrators of all forms of violence and abuse against women that their behaviour will not be tolerated said Lisa Morris, Manager, Amber Womens Refuge. Ambers One Million Stars project is part of the global One Billion Stars project, founded in Australia in 2012 by artist Maryann Talia Pau after the rape and murder of an Irish woman living in Melbourne. To get involved in Ambers One Million Stars Ireland project you can register as a star weaver or weaving group at www.onemillionstarsireland.ie. Hong Kong eases requirements for investors under new investment attraction scheme Xinhua) 16:52, January 07, 2025 HONG KONG, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Tuesday announced details of enhancement measures for the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme to invite more investors. The measures to take effect on March 1 will relax the net asset assessment and calculation requirements, and permit investments made through an eligible private company wholly owned by an applicant. The HKSAR government also shortened the period of time an applicant is required to possess no less than 30 million Hong Kong dollars (3.86 million U.S. dollars) worth of net assets or equity from two years to six months preceding the application. These measures can create synergy with the tax concession regime for family offices to promote the development of family office businesses in Hong Kong, said Christopher Hui, secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR government. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) COLUMBIA With winter weather impacting Columbia, warming centers and support groups say they need help from the community. Many Columbia warming centers and service organizations have reported seeing a spike in the number of people in need as bitterly cold temperatures have impacted mid-Missouri. Warming center locations in Columbia Warming centers are available to the public during the buildings normal business hours, according to the city. The spike is resulting in a lack of available resources, warming centers say. "We've definitely seen an uptick in the number of people coming in during the day for our warming center, and our beds for our full-time residents are completely full," Salvation Army Harbor House Director Katheryn Wallis said. As well as housing up to five families at a time, the Harbor House offers free lunch to Columbia residents. Its biggest need is food donations, which would allow it to continue to feed residents in need. Visit this website to fill out a donation pickup form. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. "We could always use more food donations," Wallis said. "We go through food quite a bit because everyone here gets three meals a day, and the community gets lunch seven days a week." Another organization offering help to residents this winter is The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri, which has been providing people in need with food, supplies and transportation to local shelters. "We could always use more volunteers," said Katie Adkins, director of communications for the Food Bank. "When you come in, you're helping us reinvest the money that we've saved so we're able to afford more food for the tables of neighbors." The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri has information on becoming a volunteer on its website. CoMo Mobile Aid Collective is another organization working to support Columbia residents this winter. The organization's director, Catherine Armbrust, said items such as winter clothing, body wipes and snacks would be the biggest help to their cause. Residents can donate online to CoMo Mobile Aid Collective. By KTimes Season 2 of Netflix's smash series "Squid Game" is facing calls for a boycott in Vietnam due to dialogue referencing the Vietnam War, which has sparked criticism for allegedly distorting history. Vietnamese authorities are also closely monitoring the situation. According to Vietnamese state media outlet Lao Dong on Monday, the Vietnam Cinema Department which oversees films is reviewing whether the second season of "Squid Game" violates Vietnams film laws. The department said, If it is concluded that the series violates regulations, we will handle the matter in accordance with the law. This follows a widespread backlash on Vietnamese social media, with calls to boycott the series for misrepresenting the nations history. Controversial dialogue The controversy stems from dialogue involving a contestant in the deadly games. Actor Kang Ha-neul, who plays the character Dae-ho (participant No. 388), describes his familys military history, saying, My father wanted me to become a real man, so he sent me to the Marines. My father was a Vietnam War veteran. Other contestants respond by praising his father, saying, Your father must be an honorable man. This exchange has angered many Vietnamese viewers, who criticized the series for glorifying South Korean soldiers who served in the Vietnam War. Comments on social media include, Its wrong to portray Korean veterans of the Vietnam War as honorable figures, and The series whitewashes the atrocities committed by South Korean soldiers during the war. Some also accused South Korea of hypocrisy. South Korea demands apologies and reparations from Japan for colonial rule but boasts about its military involvement in Vietnam," he said. "This is a double standard. Boycott demands escalate Lao Dong reported that many viewers have demanded Netflix Vietnam reevaluate the series, with some even calling for its removal from the platform in the country. Depending on the Cinema Departments findings, Season 2 could be pulled from Netflix Vietnam. This isnt the first time a Korean drama has faced scrutiny in Vietnam. In 2022, tvN's drama "Little Women" was removed from Netflix Vietnam after being accused of distorting history and violating local laws. The controversy arose from dialogue describing South Korean soldiers as capable of killing 20 Viet Cong soldiers and portraying them as heroes of the Vietnam War. 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. By Park Han-sol The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA) is set to launch a string of permanent exhibitions this year, positioning them as an encyclopedic overview of its Korean art collection from 1900 to the present. Titled the MMCA Collection, these shows will debut in May at the museums Seoul and Gwacheon branches. The displays will feature a rotating selection from its 11,800-piece holding, including masterpieces donated by the late Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hees family, with updates scheduled annually. The Gwacheon branch is slated to present the acquisitions from 1900 to 1990 through a chronological lens, while the Seoul venue will highlight some 80 gems from the 1960s to the 2010s from Kim Whanki and Park Seo-bo to Do Ho Suh and Haegue Yang. MMCA Director Kim Sung-hee emphasized the importance of a permanent exhibition that offers a comprehensive glimpse into Koreas art history, especially to cater to the growing influx of international visitors. Our collection had previously lacked the scale and depth needed to sustain permanent displays, Kim In-hye, head of MMCAs curatorial team, said during a New Year press conference in Seoul, Tuesday. The new annually rotating exhibitions will occupy about 30 percent of the total gallery space. This shift allows us to focus on fewer but more substantial thematic presentations (to fill the remaining galleries). On the administrative front, one pressing priority for the MMCA is securing additional storage space to alleviate its severe in-house capacity shortage. Currently, the main Seoul branch is operating at nearly 90 percent of its storage capacity. To address this, the institution is in talks with the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corp. to utilize the banknote manufacturers unused underground facilities at its headquarters in North Gyeongsang Province. Meanwhile, to promote in-depth academic exploration of modern and contemporary Korean art, the museum has launched a new research fellowship program aimed at fostering global discourse among scholars from Korea and around the world. The first fellow for this year is Alexander Alberro, an art critic and professor of modern and contemporary art history at Columbia University. Exhibition lineup Headlining the institutions 2025 lineup is the first Asian solo exhibition of Australian sculptor Ron Mueck, co-organized with the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art. Muecks monumental, hyper-realistic human figures, including the striking installation Mass a towering pile of 100 human skulls will take over the museums Seoul branch in April. During the busy September art season, which coincides with Frieze Seoul, the MMCA will fill its venues with shows zooming in on the Korean art scenes dynamism, from modern trailblazers to contemporary talents. Highlights include a retrospective of water drop painter Kim Tschang-yeul, the Korea Artist Prize 2025 and The Modern Nostalgia and Landscape Painting, a group show reflecting on themes of loss and rediscovery of homeland in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Koreas liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule. The museums collaborations with international cultural institutions will continue this year through several joint and touring exhibitions. Korean Treasures: Collected, Cherished, Shared, featuring gems from the late Samsung Group chairmans 23,000-piece collection, is set to make its international debut at the Smithsonians National Museum of Asian Art in November. Following its Washington, D.C. run, it will travel to the Art Institute of Chicago and the British Museum. For All That Breathes On Earth, a retrospective originally staged at the MMCA Seoul last year to honor Jung Young-sun, Koreas first female landscape architect, will be brought to the Procuratie Vecchie in Venice, concurrent with the Venice Architecture Biennale. Trump era unlocks strong potential of digital asset industry: analyst By Jun Ji-hye Securities firms in Korea are closely monitoring the potential of security token offerings (STOs) and spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), anticipating that the virtual asset market will grow with the launch of the second Donald Trump administration later this month. Security tokens are a means of dividing physical or financial assets, such as real estate, and linking them to blockchain-based tokens for trading. An STO is a method of fundraising that utilizes this system. The CEOs of major securities firms and heads of related institutions have mentioned in their New Year addresses that they view virtual assets as a future growth engine despite ongoing concerns. They vowed to expand initiatives related to virtual assets as part of their 2025 business goals. Hana Securities CEO Kang Seong-muk announced plans to prioritize STOs and digital assets, highlighting the companys alignment with evolving market trends. Meanwhile, Korea Investment & Securities CEO Kim Sung-hwan emphasized the importance of exploring new opportunities in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and virtual assets. Korea Financial Investment Association Chairman Seo Yoo-seok also pledged to support the industry by addressing member firms demands, stating his commitment to helping the sector discover new growth opportunities in the virtual asset market, including efforts to legislate STOs and launch virtual asset ETFs this year. Industry officials see significant market potential in virtual assets. According to the Hana Institute of Finance, the domestic STO market is projected to triple in size, growing from approximately 119 trillion won ($82 billion) in 2026 to 367 trillion won by 2030. In line with these projections, major securities firms have been preparing to enter the STO market through consortiums and other initiatives. In terms of spot Bitcoin ETFs, the industry anticipates substantial growth with Trump's return to the White House. While the virtual asset market has already surpassed $3 trillion, many speculate that the potential effects of Trump's policies have yet to be fully reflected. The current virtual asset market is overly fixated on prices, failing to envision the transformation that will occur once the digital asset industry establishes itself as a formal sector and attracts talent, funding, financial institutions and big tech players, NH Investment & Securities analyst Hong Seong-wook said. The growth potential of the digital asset industry under the Trump administration is undeniable. With the anticipated regulatory easing, the industry is expected to enter a full-fledged period of expansion in the second half of this year. However, the prospects for trading security tokens and spot Bitcoin ETFs remain uncertain. Both the ruling and opposition parties have proposed bills to establish a legal framework for STOs. Yet, progress on legislation has stalled as political attention has shifted to impeachment proceedings following President Yoon Suk Yeols botched martial law imposition on Dec. 3. Trading of spot Bitcoin ETFs is currently blocked due to the authorities' regulatory interpretations. Last year, despite the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approving spot Bitcoin ETFs, the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Korea's top financial regulator, ruled that such ETFs do not qualify as financial investment products under existing laws. As a result, intermediary trading was prohibited. Under current regulations, ETFs are required to track an underlying index composed of eligible underlying assets. However, virtual assets do not meet the criteria for underlying assets, making them ineligible for ETF inclusion, according to the authorities. They noted that the virtual asset committee under the FSC will continue relevant discussions. During its inaugural meeting held in November, the committee discussed measures to allow corporations to invest in virtual assets. The committee plans to discuss the potential issuance of spot virtual asset ETFs in the future. The committees second meeting is slated for Jan. 15. North Korea said Tuesday it has successfully test-fired a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) tipped with a hypersonic warhead, claiming that the weapons system will reliably deter any rivals in the Pacific region. But the South Korean military said the North's claimed success of a hypersonic missile launch could be "deception," raising questions about its flight distance and other specifications. North Korea said the missile flew some 1,500 kilometers at 12 times the speed of sound the previous day during the testing overseen by leader Kim Jong-un via a monitoring system, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said Monday the North's suspected hypersonic missile, fired from the Pyongyang area, flew about 1,100 km before falling into the East Sea. The North Korean leader said the development of such a missile was aimed at bolstering the country's nuclear war deterrent by "making the weapon system to which no one can respond the linchpin of strategic deterrence." "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim was quoted as saying by the KCNA. "The system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," he added. The North's latest missile launch, the first provocation in about two months, came about two weeks before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office Jan. 20. It also came amid political turmoil in South Korea sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition last month and his subsequent impeachment by the National Assembly. "North Korea probably intended to flex its muscle against the United States. As it said the latest launch was a test-firing, the weapons system does not appear to be completed, pointing to demand (to further develop) in terms of military technology," an official at South Korea's unification ministry told reporters. A hypersonic missile is usually hard to intercept with existing missile defense shields. It travels at a speed of at least Mach 5 five times the speed of sound and is designed to be maneuverable on unpredictable flight paths and fly at low altitudes. The KCNA said the hypersonic glide vehicle atop the new IRBM reached its first peak at a height of 99.8 km and the second at 42.5 km while making a 1,500-km-long flight as scheduled before hitting a designated target point at sea. But the South Korean military dismissed the North's claim as a "deception," saying there was no second peak. "The flight range analyzed by South Korea, the U.S. and Japan was around 1,100 km and (the missile) did not reach a second peak," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-un told a regular press briefing, noting the North has a track record of "exaggerating." North Korea also claimed a new compound of carbon fiber was used in manufacturing the engine body of the hypersonic missile, and an unspecified "comprehensive and effective" method was introduced for the flight and guidance control system. Experts said the North appeared to fire the upgraded version this week of a hypersonic missile that it launched in April last year. Pyongyang then claimed the IRBM loaded with a hypersonic glide vehicle flew 1,000 km. The South's JCS then said the missile flew 600 km, calling the North's claims partially "exaggerated," although it said Pyongyang appears to have made some technological progress in its hypersonic weapons program. "As the North has claimed it has acquired technology that is 'by no means easy,' there could be a technical improvement of its own. But it is also hard to exclude the possibility of technical cooperation from Russia," Hong Min, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said. North Korea and Russia have been deepening military cooperation under a mutual defense treaty signed in June, with the North accused of sending more than 11,000 troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine. Hypersonic missiles are among the sophisticated weapons Kim vowed to develop during a key party congress in 2021, along with nuclear-powered submarines, spy satellites and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles. At a year-end party meeting, the North's leader said his country would carry out the "toughest" counteraction strategy toward the U.S. and claimed that military cooperation among South Korea, the U.S. and Japan has expanded into a "military bloc for aggression." (Yonhap) Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Tuesday condemned North Korea's launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile (ICBM) earlier this week, pledging a firm response based on the strong South Korea-U.S. alliance. On Monday, South Korea's military reported that the North fired a suspected hypersonic missile into the East Sea, marking its first provocation of the year, just ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. "North Korea's missile launch is a clear violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and represents a serious threat to the security of the Korean Peninsula and the world," Choi said while presiding over a Cabinet meeting. Earlier in the day, North Korea also announced that it had successfully test-fired a new ICBM equipped with a hypersonic warhead, claiming the missile system would effectively deter any rivals in the Pacific region. "Our government will firmly respond to North Korea's provocations based on the solid South Korea-U.S. alliance," Choi said. The latest missile launch also marked the first provocation since Choi, deputy prime minister for economic affairs, took over the leadership role following parliament's impeachment of former acting President Han Duck-soo last month. Choi directed the defense ministry to revitalize the military's organizational atmosphere and establish a robust security posture to deal with any further provocations by North Korea. (Yonhap) North Korea's claim of what it called a successful launch of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) tipped with a hypersonic warhead is presumed to be "deception," South Korea's military said Tuesday. The assessment came hours after North Korea said it successfully test-fired the missile the previous day, saying it flew some 1,500 kilometers at 12 times the speed of sound. kilometers ea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) earlier said the IRBM launched from the Pyongyang area flew about 1,100 kilometers before falling into the East Sea. "It is assessed that North Korea's claim of the flight distance and the second peak altitude is highly likely deception," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun told a regular briefing. "The flight range analyzed by South Korea, the United States and Japan is around 1,100 kilometers and (the missile) did not reach a second peak," Lee said, dismissing the North's claim that the missile reached the second peak at 42.5 kilometers. When asked about whether the North could have received technological assistance from Russia in developing the new missile, the JCS official did not rule out such possibility. North Korea claimed Tuesday that it has accomplished technological advancements, such as using a "new compound of carbon fiber" for the engine body, raising suspicions of technological aid from Russia amid their growing military alignment. The latest launch came around nine months after the North launched an IRBM tipped with a hypersonic warhead in April. At that time, Pyongyang claimed the "powerful, strategic offensive weapon" made a 1,000-kilometers -long flight as planned. The JCS then said the missile flew 600 kilometers, calling the North's claims partially "exaggerated," although it said North Korea appears to have made some technological progress in its hypersonic weapons program. North Korea first test-fired a missile tipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle in September 2021, although that launch was seen as a failure. The North has been seeking to develop sophisticated weapons, such as hypersonic missiles, nuclear-powered submarines, spy satellites and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, after leader Kim Jong-un vowed to develop them in a key party congress in 2021. (Yonhap) A Korean American lawmaker underscored the need Monday to keep the South Korea-U.S. alliance strong amid the political turmoil in Seoul, as she described the bilateral partnership as "vital" for security in the Indo-Pacific. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) made the remarks in an opinion piece carried by The Hill, a U.S. news outlet, as South Korea is undergoing a period of political uncertainty following President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law attempt and subsequent impeachment last month. "The U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Alliance is ironclad and built upon our shared values of freedom and democracy, human rights and the rule of law," Kim wrote, referring to South Korea by its official name. "However, with the recent political turmoil in South Korea, our economic and security alliance must remain strong. Despite facing one of its greatest challenges, I have faith in the democratic commitment of the Korean people," she added. The lawmaker said that the U.S. "must pay attention" as South Korea is a key ally in keeping the Indo-Pacific "free and open" in the face of security challenges from North Korea and China. "As growing aggression from North Korea and malign influence from the Chinese Communist Party threaten a free and open Indo-Pacific, the U.S.-ROK alliance is more important than ever to deter these threats and promote peace through strength," she said. Kim argued that while media coverage has focused on protests against Yoon, the images of Koreans protesting his impeachment and waving South Korean and American flags have been mostly ignored by Western media. "While the U.S.-ROK alliance enjoys wide bipartisan support in the United States, factions, including those that have led the presidential impeachments in South Korea, have been working to undermine the alliance and the U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral partnership," she claimed. The lawmaker went on to say that now is the time to expand joint military exercises, people-to-people exchanges, and intelligence and technology cooperation, "not back down." "The U.S.-ROK alliance must not fall on deaf ears in the United States or in South Korea. Stability and true democratic governance in South Korea are critically important for the United States to maintain a peaceful, free and open Indo-Pacific," she said. "Both Congress and the current and incoming administrations must work to ensure our continued commitment to the U.S.-ROK alliance and a free and democratic South Korea." (Yonhap) Outgoing U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg said Tuesday that denuclearizing North Korea should remain a principle to continue pushing for, despite the challenges posed by the North's evolving nuclear and weapons development. Goldberg made the remark as he was leaving his post in Seoul after a 30-month term, and less than two weeks before the second Donald Trump administration takes office Jan. 20. "I believe that denuclearization is an important principle to follow and to continue pressing," he told reporters at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, ahead of his departure. "It is important for nonproliferation reasons and for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," Goldberg said, Since the nuclear negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang broke down in early 2019, the recalcitrant regime has ramped up its nuclear weapons and missile development. It has also deepened its ties with Russia, through which it is suspected of obtaining advanced military technologies. On Tuesday, the North confirmed it has test-fired an intermediate ballistic missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead, its first provocation this year. Its growing belligerence has sparked calls in South Korea for building its own nuclear program and worries that the incoming Trump administration could shift its policy on North Korea to arms control negotiations. Goldberg also confirmed reports that Joseph Yun, former U.S. representative for North Korea under the Barack Obama administration, will assume office as the acting ambassador to South Korea until Trump appoints an ambassador. "That's our intention. He will be the charges (d'affaires) in a few days," he said. Regarding the political turmoil surrounding President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, Goldberg held out optimism that the difficult times will pass. "This is a great democracy that I think will continue to function. I also know that you'll get through them and that the Korean people will get through them," he said. Goldberg described leaving Seoul, his last host country before retirement, as a "very sentimental moment." "I'm leaving with a sentimental feeling, a bit of sadness, but also know there are other adventures as I get back to the United States, and a free life after 36 years in the foreign service," he said. Goldberg, a career diplomat, took office as the top envoy to Seoul in July 2022. (Yonhap) European Union Ambassador Maria Castillo Fernandez Happy New Year, and many blessings to you in this new year. Its already been 25 years since I began my diplomatic career in EU political relations and economic cooperation with Korea. During my first post in 2005, I worked to establish three key agreements, namely the Political Framework Agreement, the Free Trade Agreement and the Framework Participation Agreement. This year, the EU is excited to welcome Korea as the official associate country to our 100 billion euro research program Horizon Europe. Personally, Korea became my third home, and I am pleased to end my last post in Seoul, which makes a full circle to my diplomatic career. German Ambassador Georg Schmidt I would like to extend my best wishes to all readers for the year 2025. Germany and Korea will remain strong partners and friends in the new year at all levels through our intense cooperation in politics, business, science, culture, etc. and above all, through many personal ties between the citizens of our countries. Happy New Year! Saudi Arabian Ambassador Sami Alsadhan The beginning of a new year offers an opportunity to reflect on the milestones of the past and to look ahead with optimism and determination. As we step into 2025, the Embassy remains committed to further strengthening our bonds of friendship and cooperation. We look forward to a year filled with continued success, peace and opportunities for all. French Ambassador Philippe Bertoux I would like to wish the Korean people, my fellow compatriots and the foreign community in Korea a happy 2025 and wonderful celebrations with your loved ones! I am confident that France and Korea will kick off 2025 in the best possible way with a view to preparing the celebrations of the 140th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 2026. Canadian Ambassador Tamara Mawhinney As we welcome 2025, I extend my warmest greetings to the people of Korea and wish all of you peace, health and prosperity in the new year. The past year has been a testament to the enduring strength of the Canada-Korea strategic partnership, rooted in deep and robust people-to-people ties, shared values and common interests. As we look ahead to the new year, I am confident we will achieve even greater success as we expand our cooperation in the areas of values, security, prosperity, sustainability and beyond. Thai Ambassador Tanee Sangrat On behalf of the Royal Thai Embassy and Team Thailand in Seoul, I would like to send my warmest wishes to the people of Korea and the Thai community here. This season of renewal is an opportune moment to reflect on the deep friendship and ever-growing strategic partnership between our two nations. Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-de Vega Mabuhay! As we welcome the new year, I extend my warmest greetings to the readers of The Korea Times. The past year has been a testament to the enduring friendship and shared aspirations of the Philippines and Korea. Together, we worked closely to deepen our ties across political, security, defense, trade, cultural, tourism, education and people-to-people exchanges while celebrating the 75th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Kazakh Ambassador Nurgali A. Arystanov As we welcome the new year 2025, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes to all the readers. The past year was marked by remarkable milestones in the enhanced strategic partnership between Kazakhstan and Korea, underscoring our shared commitment to deepening ties across various sectors. Brazilian Ambassador Marcia Donner Abreu On the occasion of the new year, I extend to all Koreans my heartfelt best wishes for the future and also my thanks for all the support extended to the relations between Brazil and Korea, which just celebrated its 65th anniversary. May 2025 see a world with more peace, social justice, sustainability and solidarity among all men and women on Earth. Malaysian Ambassador Mohd Zamruni Khalid As we celebrate this joyous season, I wish to extend my warmest seasons greetings to each and every one of you. This year has truly been remarkable for both Malaysia and Korea, especially with the recent elevation of our bilateral relations to a strategic partnership. The visit of our Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Korea in November was a pivotal moment for us, as we reaffirmed our commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors, including defense, trade and cultural exchanges. Goldberg bids farewell to Seoul amid impeachment chaos By Lee Hyo-jin Joseph Yun, former U.S. special representative for North Korea policy, has been appointed as the charge d'affaires to South Korea following the departure of U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg, according to diplomatic sources on Tuesday. The appointment of a new charge d'affaires to South Korea during an envoy vacancy marks a departure from previous U.S. practices, where the deputy chief of mission would typically take on the role of acting ambassador. This appears to signal Washington's intention to maintain stability in the bilateral alliance during a sensitive period. South Korea is navigating political turbulence following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, while Washington faces policy uncertainties with President-elect Donald Trump set to take office on Jan. 20. Yun is expected to arrive in Seoul as early as this week. Unlike a formal ambassador, a charge d'affaires does not require an agrement process or formal credentials. The retired Korean American diplomat will be tasked with fine-tuning South Korea-U.S. relations until Trump appoints a new ambassador. The 70-year-old has previously served at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, with other overseas assignments in Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Malaysia. After serving as the U.S. ambassador to Malaysia from 2013 to 2016, Yun was appointed the special representative for North Korea policy in October 2016 under the Obama administration. In this role, he spearheaded diplomatic efforts to address Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions and facilitated the release of detained Americans in North Korea. In June 2017, he traveled to Pyongyang to bring back Otto Warmbier, a U.S. college student who had fallen into a coma while detained in North Korea. Yun retired from government service in March 2018. His return to South Korea is expected to help minimize the potential gap created by the vacancy in the U.S. ambassador role, a position that has often remained unfilled for extended periods during leadership transitions. For instance, there was a nearly 18-month gap between former U.S. envoy Mark Lippert's departure in January 2017 and his successor Harry Harris assuming the role in June 2018. Goldberg took office in July 2022, about 18 months after President Joe Bidens inauguration in January 2021. It remains uncertain when a new ambassador will be nominated and confirmed under the Trump administration. Some reports suggest that former Republican Rep. Michelle Park Steel, a Korean American politician who represented California's 45th district, is being considered for the role. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, Goldberg concluded his two-and-a-half-year tenure in South Korea, his final mission after 36 years of diplomatic service. During his tenure, bilateral relations saw significant developments. Yoon made a state visit to Washington in April 2023, during which the two leaders signed the Washington Declaration that upgraded their security alliance to a nuclear-based one. However, as Goldberg's term came to an end, he faced significant challenges in maintaining relations due to political upheavals in South Korea since Yoon's short-lived martial law on Dec. 3. Speaking to reporters at the airport before his departure, Goldberg reflected on Koreas resilience amid its current crises, including the declaration of martial law and the tragic Jeju Air plane crash in Muan on Dec. 29. "I know these are very difficult moments for Korea, but I also know that you'll get through them and that the Korean people will get through them," he told reporters."You have so many things going for you, a great democracy that I think will continue to function and work, and we'll work out these problems." Commenting on the potential direction of U.S. policies under Trumps administration, Goldberg said, "Democracy, human rights, all of those issues will continue to be part of the expression of the American people. I can't speak to what policies necessarily President Trump and his administration will follow, but I know the American people believe in those principles." Trump meeting eyed during condolence visit By Baek Byung-yeul Rev. Billy Kim, chairman of the leading Christian radio network Far East Broadcasting (FEBC)-Korea, will attend the state funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter as a representative of the Korean government. The funeral, set for Thursday in Washington, is exclusive to those who shared a close relationship with the deceased during his lifetime. Carter, who died last month at the age of 100, had a longstanding connection with Rev. Kim dating back to the 1970s. According to FEBC-Korea, Kim first met Carter at a Baptist event in the U.S. when Carter was governor of Georgia. Kim, who led the Baptist World Alliance from 2000 to 2005, continued to engage with Carter over the decades. "When former President Carter came to Korea in 1979 to meet the then President Park Chung-hee, these two met. We understand that the chairman asked Carter to suggest to President Park that he should attend church, and Carter actually told Park to do so," an aide of the chairman and a high-ranking official of FEBC-Korea said. Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it recommended Kim to visit the U.S. as the governments special envoy, believing it would benefit diplomacy with the United States. "The government plans to dispatch FEBC-Korea Chairman Billy Kim as the representative of the condolence delegation to former President Jimmy Carter's state funeral, which will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9, in Washington," Lee Jae-woong, a spokesperson of the foreign ministry said during a briefing Tuesday. "We understand that Chairman Kim has maintained a relationship with former President Carter for over 40 years since they first met when Carter was the governor of Georgia. Also, we know that the chairman is well-known in both American political and religious circles." It is noteworthy whether Kim will meet with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to be officially inaugurated on Jan. 20, or officials from the new administration while attending this state funeral. Since it's an event for invited guests only, there might be an opportunity to spend time together, and if so, they could naturally exchange greetings," the FEBC-Korea official said. Kim also has connections with Trump's circle as he has a close relationship with Rev. Franklin Graham, a longtime supporter of Trump. "Chairman Kim was very close to Rev. Billy Graham and maintains a friendly relationship with his son, Rev. Franklin Graham. We know that Rev. Franklin Graham is very close to Trump, and this could be a point where Trump and the chairman might meet," the official said. However, the official added that even if the two meet, it would likely be at the level of exchanging greetings, and the chairman is not currently considering mentioning aspects of U.S.-Korea relations or political events. The prosecution said Tuesday it has again requested an arrest warrant for a shaman reportedly close to President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife on charges of receiving illegal political funds about seven years ago. The Seoul Southern District Prosecutors Office said the request was filed Monday with the Seoul Southern District Court, which previously denied a similar arrest warrant for shaman Jeon Seong-bae, also known as Geon Jin. Jeon was accused of receiving 100 million won (about $69,000) from a politician who ran for office in the 2018 local elections, but the court refused to approve his arrest warrant on Dec. 19, citing a lack of evidence. Jeon is believed to have been involved in Yoon's presidential campaign before his election in March 2022 and has been accused of flaunting his personal ties to the first family. Prosecutors said they again questioned Jeon late last month and reinforced evidence against him. His arrest warrant hearing is scheduled to be held at the same court Thursday. (Yonhap) Woman, now 47, set free after being wrongfully convicted of killing father By Jung Min-ho When Kim Shin-hye was put behind bars after being found guilty of killing her father in 2000, she was only 23 years old. After spending 24 years in prison, she was declared innocent in a court ruling. Judges at the Gwangju District Court on Monday overturned her conviction in her retrial and ordered the Jangheung Correctional Institution to release Kim, who is now 47. This should never be repeated, Kim said as she exited the facility. It couldve been corrected (earlier). But it took 25 years. (In prison,) I thought a lot about why it should take such a long time Ill do my part to prevent a recurrence of such tragedy. It is the first case of a prisoner being exonerated and released for a wrongful conviction while still serving time in prison in Korea. Kim was previously sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of murdering her father, then 52, who was found dead near a bus station on Wando, an island county in South Jeolla Province, on March 7, 2000. Initially, he was suspected of being killed in a car accident. But an autopsy found that he was intoxicated with alcohol and doxylamine, an antihistamine drug used to treat insomnia. Soon, they arrested Kim as the prime suspect, mainly based on her confession. They accused her of killing him by tricking him into having alcohol mixed with 30 doxylamine pills, saying she did so for retribution after he sexually assaulted her. They also said a life insurance payout may have also motivated her to plot to murder him. But as the trial began, Kim reversed her statement, insisting on her innocence. She said she lied because she wanted to protect her younger brother, who was suspected of committing the crime. Kim said she had believed a relative who told her that her brother must have been the killer. She also said she had never been sexually assaulted. Frightened and confused, she said she had done what some of her relatives told her, believing she would receive a less severe penalty if she made such claims. Yet the prosecution and judges eventually dismissed her claims and sentenced her to life imprisonment. She would still be incarcerated without any realistic hope of release if it had not been for Park Joon-young, a human rights lawyer known for helping people like Kim. Having conducted his own investigation, Park, along with other lawyers, concluded that she was wrongfully interrogated by police in the first place and that it led to a flawed ruling. He then filed for a retrial, which the court accepted in 2015. For 24 years, she fought a battle for truth inside a solitary cell, the lawyer said. I hope this ruling serves as a turning point for Kim and her siblings to restore their lives. After years of hearings, the judges concluded that evidence used against her had been obtained unlawfully, through coercion and searches without a warrant, and that accusations brought against her had not been sufficiently verified. The autopsy report showed no evidence that he had taken a large amount of doxylamine as alleged by the prosecution, said the court, adding that his high blood alcohol content of 0.303 percent may have been the real cause of his death. The court also ruled that evidence was insufficient to prove that she had been sexually assaulted. On insurance fraud allegations, Judge Park Hyun-soo said: She would not be allowed to claim the benefit of his newly contracted insurance within the first two years and she was probably aware of it all as an insurance planner." Opposition seeks to curb security agency's power By Kwak Yeon-soo The Presidential Security Service (PSS) is facing mounting criticism after blocking investigators from executing a warrant to detain President Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning in connection with insurrection charges related to his short-lived declaration of martial law. While the PSS claims its top priority is to ensure the absolute safety of the president and must leave no loopholes, its noncompliance with law enforcement authorities and a court's decision to question Yoon is drawing calls for reforms to limit the agency's power. On Friday, hundreds of PSS agents prevented investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) from executing the detention warrant against Yoon, blocking their path to the presidential residence in central Seoul. Confronted by a barricade of guards, the CIO investigators withdrew approximately five and a half hours later. At the time, the PSS argued that the residence is a sensitive security area, where searches and seizures could be restricted. Although a local court specified in the warrant that relevant clauses of the Criminal Procedure Act would not apply, the PSS disregarded this order. As the PSSs actions faced harsh criticism, with critics referring to the service as "Yoon's loyal, private guards," Park Chong-jun, the head of presidential security, issued a rare statement on Sunday, describing such criticism as insulting. "I believe it would be dereliction of duty for the PSS to comply with the execution of the detention warrant, which is being carried out amid controversy over its legitimacy," Park said in his address. "If my decision has any flaws, I will accept legal responsibility." Park also refused to comply with the police's summons for questioning over the PSS' obstruction of official duties specifically, the blocking of the detention warrant execution on Saturday and Tuesday. It is difficult for Park Chong-jun to appear for questioning today as he has not yet appointed his legal representative. He will coordinate the schedule for questioning after appointing a lawyer soon, the PSS said in a press notice on Tuesday. The police summoned Park for the third time, which is generally considered a final warning, requesting him to appear for questioning on Friday. The PSS chief, who has also been booked for his involvement in Yoon's insurrection, refused to attend a parliamentary hearing on Wednesday, telling lawmakers that he cannot leave his position even for a moment, as it is a critical time for the institution in providing security services for the president. Meanwhile, the opposition bloc is pushing to abolish the security service, citing concerns that it has transformed into the presidents private army. On Tuesday, Rep. Hwang Myeong-seon of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) proposed a bill titled Presidential Security Service Abolition Act, which includes the abolition of the PSS and the creation of a presidential security unit under the National Police Agency. A day earlier, Rep. Min Hyung-bae of the DPK proposed a similar bill calling for an amendment to the current Presidential Security Act. Referring to the PSS as a legacy of [former president and general] Park Chung-hees military dictatorship, the lawmaker argued that the PSS should be abolished to eradicate abuse of power and cronyism. The structure of the PSS dates back to 1963, when then-President Park Chung-hee established the service as a loyal bodyguard force to defend his military regime. It continues to operate under the direct control of the president. The minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party (RKP) expressed concerns that the PSS could abuse its power and end up becoming the presidents private army. The PSS has gone out of control. To improve the situation, we need to abolish the PSS, which is a symbol of imperial presidential culture and authoritarianism, Rep. Shin Jang-sik of the RKP said. Rival parties continued to clash over the execution of the warrant by the CIO, which has faced criticism for incompetence after flip-flopping on who should carry out the detention warrant. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) said the martial law case should be transferred to the police as the CIO has no authority to investigate Yoon. On the other hand, the DPK said the CIO should fully prepare itself and detain Yoon if a Seoul court reissues the warrant to detain the embattled president. The anti-corruption agency refiled the warrant with the Seoul Western District Court on Monday, seeking an extension. Oh Dong-woon, the chief of the CIO, apologized for the failed attempt to detain Yoon and vowed to do his best to prepare to execute the second warrant. Two Army company commanders were sentenced by a court Tuesday to prison terms of five and three years, respectively, in connection with the death of a trainee soldier in May last year following a grueling disciplinary training session. The company and deputy company commanders affiliated with the 12th Infantry Division in Inje, 126 kilometers northeast of Seoul, were convicted of illegally subjecting six recruits to a disciplinary session on May 23, resulting in the death of one of them. The Chuncheon District Court handed out a five-year prison sentence to the company commander, a 28-year-old captain surnamed Kang, and a three-year prison sentence to the deputy company commander, a 26-year-old first lieutenant surnamed Nam, after finding them guilty of abuse of power and abuse resulting in death. Prosecutors demanded prison terms of 10 years and seven years, respectively, for the two in the previous court hearing. The court said the defendants carried out harsh military training that was not suitable for the physical conditions of the victims receiving the military recruit training. It also noted that such abnormal military training lowers military morale and combat power and reduces the public's trust in the military. (Yonhap) By KTimes Hershey's Kisses, a staple product of global chocolate company Hershey, have traditionally struggled to shine in South Korea despite their popularity abroad. Often seen as a "filler product" in convenience stores and supermarkets, they typically experience modest sales even on Valentines Day. However, a recent event has given the chocolate a surprising moment in the spotlight. According to a report by a major convenience store chain on Monday, sales of Hershey's Kisses at its stores nationwide increased by 8.4 percent compared to the previous week. The company noted that this spike is unusual for Hershey's Kisses, which typically see steady but unremarkable demand. The unexpected surge is attributed to a viral moment involving a protest group nicknamed the "Kisses Protesters." On Jan. 5, protesters gathered in front of President Yoon Suk Yeol's residence in Hannam-dong, Seoul, calling for his arrest. The group earned the nickname "Kisses Protesters" due to their appearance many participants wrapped themselves in silver foil thermal blankets to endure the freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. The blankets resembled the silver foil wrapping of Hershey's Kisses, sparking the nickname. Hershey's Kisses, known for their teardrop shape and convenient single-serving size, have been a popular chocolate globally since their launch in 1907. They come in various flavors, such as milk chocolate almond and cookies 'n' cream, and are often given as a gift or enjoyed as a snack. The viral association between the protesters and the chocolates seems to have translated into increased sales, a phenomenon often seen when products gain media attention. The convenience store chain reported that such trends frequently lead to short-term boosts in sales. Kim Sang-wook, a physics professor at Kyung Hee University and a well-known figure from TV variety shows, said on social media: The thermal blankets are an invention of NASA, designed to retain heat in space. You could say the Kisses Protesters are like space warriors. 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. By KTimes People convicted of serious crimes, including sexual offenses such as rape, will be prohibited from working as delivery drivers for platforms such as Baedal Minjok or Coupang Eats for up to 20 years. Similarly, those with violent criminal records will be barred from employment in roles related to transportation services for people with disabilities. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced Tuesday that a revised enforcement decree of the Last-mile Logistics Industry Development Act was approved during a Cabinet meeting. This revision restricts individuals with criminal records from working in small-parcel delivery services for periods ranging from two to 20 years, depending on the severity of their offenses. The restrictions apply to employees of certified delivery companies or subcontractors working with licensed operators. Specific penalties include 20 years for murder, human trafficking and sexual offenses; 18 years for habitual theft; 10 years for marijuana-related drug offenses; six years for lending drug-handling licenses and two years for violations related to drug handling. With these changes, individuals with severe criminal histories will face significant limitations in joining major delivery platforms. Certified delivery businesses currently include Woowa Bros., which oversees Baedal Minjoks logistics, Coupang Eats Service and other key players. These companies and their subcontracted agencies must check the criminal histories of their employees and potential hires through the National Police Agency. Failure to comply with these checks or to terminate contracts with ineligible workers within a month could result in fines of up to 5 million won ($3,800). The Cabinet also approved changes to the Act on Promotion of the Transportation Convenience Of Mobility Disadvantaged Persons. The new rules prohibit individuals with records of violent crimes, including sexual offenses and drug-related crimes, from working in special transportation services for people with disabilities for up to 20 years. Employers in this sector are now required to confirm applicants eligibility with local police before hiring. 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 number of foreign tourists to the southern resort island of Jeju surpassed the 1 million mark last year for the first time in five years, data showed Tuesday. Out of a tentative total of 13,783,911 people who visited Jeju last year, 1,907,608, or 13.8 percent, were foreigners, according to the Jeju Tourism Association. The number of foreign tourists peaked at over 3.6 million in 2016 before dropping to the 1 million level in 2017 amid China's ban on group tours over Korea's hosting of a U.S. missile defense system. The number dropped further after the outbreak of COVID-19 to around 210,000 in 2020, 48,000 in 2021 and 86,000 in 2022 before rebounding slightly to 709,000 in 2023. Chinese tourists accounted for the largest share of foreign tourists to Jeju from January to November last year, numbering 1,304,359, or 68.4 percent of the total, followed by Taiwanese at 149,518. The association attributed the rise to an increase in the number of flights and cruises linking Jeju to other countries, particularly in the greater China region. Last year, international cruises docked at Jeju 274 times, bringing some 641,000 foreign tourists to the island, up from 77 times in 2023. There were also 152 weekly direct flights connecting Jeju to 15 foreign cities, including 12 in China, as of last month. "We expect the upward trend of foreign tourists to continue as we see more international cruises stopping over at Jeju and more direct flights connecting Jeju to other countries," a Jeju Tourism Organization official said. (Yonhap) Police on Tuesday ordered the head of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) to appear for questioning later this week in its third summons over allegations he blocked investigators' attempt to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Park Chong-jun, chief of the PSS, was booked on charges of obstructing official duties after presidential security officials blocked the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) from executing a warrant to detain Yoon last Friday. Park was ordered to appear for questioning Friday, after he ignored two previous summonses for questioning on Saturday and Tuesday. The PSS earlier said in a notice to the press that Park has yet to appoint a lawyer. "It is difficult for Park to appear today as he has not yet appointed legal representation," it said. "He will coordinate the date for questioning after appointing a lawyer today or tomorrow." The third summons is likely to be the final one before police seek a warrant to detain Park. Yoon, who faces charges of insurrection and abuse of power over his short-lived imposition of martial law on Dec. 3, became the first sitting president to face arrest after he ignored three summonses for questioning. Lee Kwang-woo, head of the PSS bodyguard division, was also scheduled for questioning Tuesday on charges of obstructing Yoon's detention. After he failed to show up, police said they sent a second summons ordering him to appear on Friday. 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. The CIO and the police are jointly reviewing whether to detain PSS staff in the event they try to block a second attempt to arrest Yoon, according to police. (Yonhap) A special committee of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) said Tuesday it will file a complaint against acting President Choi Sang-mok for alleged dereliction of duty. Choi has been criticized by opposition lawmakers for not ordering the Presidential Security Service (PSS) to cooperate with attempts by investigators to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. During a press conference at the National Assembly, the committee slammed Choi for eventually allowing the PSS to block the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) from executing a warrant to detain Yoon. "According to reports, acting President Choi remained mum even when the CIO requested cooperation regarding the arrest of President Yoon," the committee said. Choi also did not take any action against Park Chong-jun, chief of the PSS, despite his involvement in blocking the CIO's attempt to detain Yoon, according to the committee. The committee then criticized Choi for not requesting the recommendation for a special prosecutor though the Assembly passed a bill mandating a permanent special counsel to investigate insurrection charges against Yoon. "Acting President Choi has also indefinitely delayed the appointments of Ma Eun-hyuk, a candidate for Constitutional Court justice recommended by the National Assembly, and Ma Yong-ju, a Supreme Court judge candidate," it said. The committee urged Choi to take a "firm stance" in addressing Yoon's insurrection case, including the arrest of Yoon. (Yonhap) The National Assembly's legal team said Tuesday its request to remove an insurrection charge from the list of charges in President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment motion is aimed at allowing the Constitutional Court to focus on making a decision about constitutional violations over Yoon's failed martial law bid. The Assembly's legal representatives have asked the court to remove the charge that Yoon incited an insurrection when he declared martial law on Dec. 3, suggesting it would help focus proceedings on whether Yoon violated the Constitution and thus speed up the trial. The Assembly's legal team, which would serve as "prosecutors" in Yoon's impeachment trial, said a criminal court, not the Constitutional Court, should judge charges of insurrection against Yoon, but all acts of insurrection are subject to judgment at the Constitutional Court. The remarks came amid backlash from Yoon's lawyers and the ruling People Power Party (PPP). Yoon's lawyers have argued dropping the charge would amount to removing a majority of the grounds for impeachment and thus the court should dismiss the impeachment motion. "All acts related to the Dec. 3 emergency martial law are subject to judgment," the team said in a news conference. "There is no change in holding all acts of insurrection as subjects for trial." The team argued that insurrection is mentioned in the motion to reflect the National Assembly's assessment of the gravity of Yoon's acts related to martial law and is not a separate ground for impeachment. "In accordance to the nature of impeachment trial proceedings, we are organizing it to be judged on violations of the Constitution," it said. If the court accepts the team's request, the trial will focus on whether Yoon's actions surrounding martial law violated the Constitution and not decide whether they amounted to insurrection under criminal law. The court has said how the matter will be reviewed is a decision to be made "wholly" by the bench. (Yonhap) A court on Tuesday granted an extension of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his short-lived imposition of martial law. The Seoul Western District Court granted the extension requested by investigators led by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) after the initial warrant expired Monday, according to officials. The CIO's attempt to execute the warrant last Friday failed after presidential security personnel blocked investigators from entering the building of Yoon's official residence in central Seoul. While investigators did not disclose the duration of the extended warrant, it is believed to have been extended beyond the customary seven days of a warrant, given anticipated challenges in detaining Yoon. The CIO requested the initial warrant on Dec. 30, charging Yoon with masterminding insurrection and abuse of power. The next day, the same court granted the warrant, marking the first time in history that a detention warrant was issued for a sitting president. With the extension, the CIO is expected to try again to execute the warrant against Yoon soon. (Yonhap) Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Tuesday called for the stable management of state affairs in diplomacy, security and defense, ordering close coordination among government agencies. Choi issued the directive while receiving a joint policy briefing from the acting defense minister, trade minister and other officials on the year's defense and security agenda, according to the finance ministry. "We are currently facing both internal and external uncertainties, along with complex global dynamics in the fields of economy, industry, diplomacy and security," Choi was quoted by the ministry as saying. He urged the relevant ministries to act with one mind to lead the fields of diplomacy, security and defense in a stable manner. Choi also encouraged the use of various diplomatic and trade channels to reassure the global community about the country's ongoing security cooperation, the ministry said. (Yonhap) Sookmyung Women's University's internal review has preliminarily concluded that first lady Kim Keon Hee plagiarized her master's thesis submitted to the university's graduate school of education, sources said Tuesday. The university's research ethics committee sent the findings to Kim in late December, giving her until the end of this month to appeal the decision, according to the sources. If the first lady disputes the conclusion, the committee plans to review her appeal before finalizing its conclusion, according to the university. Kim has faced allegations of plagiarizing her 1999 thesis, submitted to the university's graduate school of education as part of her master's degree requirements. Sookmyung launched the investigation into the case in mid-December 2022. (Yonhap) By Park Sung-ik Citizen protests have become more common since the Dec. 3 martial law declaration, particularly in Seoul, where large-scale candlelit protests have been held every evening. At the start of the martial law crisis, demonstrators gathered in front of the National Assembly building in Yeouido to defend democracy and freedom, shouting, Impeach the president! A diverse range of age groups took part, with young people standing out in particular. They showed solidarity by singing popular K-pop songs like "APT." and "Into the New World" to express their emotions, their passion burning even brighter with the glow of candles and K-pop light sticks. President Yoon Suk Yeol is now impeached, via a vote at the National Assembly, and is awaiting the Constitutional Court's ruling. In this atmosphere, the protests has become an important opportunity to call attention to the need for social change, and for many people to reflect on their responsibilities as democratic citizens. Citizens' solidarity and courageous actions once again proved to be an important moment to protect democracy. While participatory democracy, exemplified by the candlelit revolution and now the K-pop light stick revolution, has flourished in Korea, democracy in broader society encompassing areas such as the home, the workplace and women's rights remains insufficient. This is due to a range of complex social, historical and economic factors. First, Korea has a long history of military regimes and authoritarian politics. This background provided external motivation for popular resistance and human rights promotion. In other words, there was a public square movement demanding democracy for a change in power, but democracy in everyday life was relatively neglected. Additionally, in the process of high economic growth, the rights of workers and citizens have often been sacrificed. Even after the development of open-air democracy, corporate power and economic interests tended to take priority, and issues such as the democratic operation of families, businesses and women's rights were pushed to the back burner. Second, Korean society traditionally has strong patriarchal values. Gender roles and power structures within the family are entrenched, making it difficult to realize democracy at home. Third, gender gaps and discrimination still exist due to poor progress in women's rights. Systems and policies are needed to improve women's social and economic status, but the reality is that these changes are taking place slowly. Fourth, Korea's large corporations make up a significant portion of the economy, and their corporate power influences politics and society in general. These power structures tend to inhibit democratic decision-making processes within companies and workers' rights claims. Fifth, Korea's welfare policy is still insufficient, so there is a lack of a system to support families and individuals. As a result, economic inequality and suffering persist, impeding the development of living democracy. Sixth, while schools focus too much on competition for college entrance exams, most of the students are often unaware of their rights and responsibilities due to a lack of awareness or education related to democracy in life. In conclusion, while participatory democracy has helped advance democratic values through citizen resistance and participation, democracy in everyday life has not developed adequately due to historical, social and economic factors. Issues like these must be addressed gradually through increased awareness, change, education and policy efforts throughout society. Park Sung-ik (parksi48@naver.com) is a retired English teacher from Pungmoon Girls' High School. By Choo Jae-woo Professor Yan Xuetong of Tsinghua University in China, who is known for being outspoken and controversial, did not disappoint us with his piece Why China isnt scared of Trump, which was published in Foreign Affairs in December 2024. Yan contends that Chinese leaders are not dreading Trumps return because of his uncertain loyalty to allies, political isolationism, economic protectionism and less ideological policies. Yan fails to see or explain why anti-China sentiment in the United States is strong and nonpartisan. Simultaneously, he does not appear to understand Trumps political stance on Taiwan, or the South China Sea for that matter. Instead, he openly asserts Trumps unwillingness to shape Chinas political system to conform to its Western counterparts, and he is therefore unlikely to be keen to intervene in Chinas domestic affairs. For one thing, Trump signed the Taiwan Travel Act in 2018, paving the path for high-level conversations and visits between U.S. and Taiwanese officials. He is a typical Republican politician who sympathizes deeply with Taiwan's situation. Yan argues that Trumps second-term agenda may differ from his first. But not that much. It is for one simple reason: his term is insufficient to achieve MAGA, as it is stated. His constituents have given him a mandate to lead the country and achieve MAGA in four years. Trump does not have adequate time. As a result, he appointed his cabinet members as soon as he was elected, saving time on the transition committee. It is also for this reason that he wishes to stop the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of his inauguration. In November, Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone, and in December, he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris. In December, in Arizona, he hinted at a possible meeting with Putin following the inauguration. At the same time, he believes that the Middle East situation is a pretty simple issue to settle. Reimposing economic restrictions on Iran will reduce financial assistance for Hamas and Hezbollah. Trump wants to resolve all of these issues at once for one reason: to focus on limiting China. Bipartisan anti-China sentiment will persist in U.S. politics and society. Not for economic or geostrategic competition considerations. It will prevail as Beijing prepares for more effective influence operations, often known as unrestricted warfare. The results have been highly successful and widely known. China has advocated for the use of the warfare approach anytime a schism in American society emerges. Trump's harsh immigration policies, for example, will cause societal upheaval in America. It will naturally increase the authority of law enforcement. Abuse of power and accidents are unavoidable, as proven by George Floyds death and the subsequent societal demonstrations such as the Black Lives Matter movement. And Beijing will not ignore concerns that could cause division. In his recently published book "Blood Money: Why the Powerful Turn a Blind Eye While China Kills Americans," Peter Schweizer used a case study to show how Beijing provided financial support to some protest organizations in order to prolong the demonstrations. He also cited LGBTQ+ festivals and other human rights challenges in America. As a result, Trumps reelection may be making Chinese President Xi Jinping happy right now. He may be devising more complex cognitive warfare methods. Trump is not as skeptical of the United States commitment to allies as Yan claims. Trump and his cabinet members, as well as Republican backers, recognize the strategic importance of alliances. Trump may appear dissatisfied with the sacrifices his fellow Americans must make to preserve and defend allies. He simply wants his partners to be more fiscally responsible. He wants to use coercion to extract more money from the allies, requiring them to bear a higher percentage of the expense. No more, no less. He may pressure the allies by renouncing U.S. commitments or withdrawing some U.S. forces, as South Korea has. However, he understands, like his predecessors, that the implications of the withdrawal of the military are far more harmful to U.S. strategic objectives. The Trump 2.0 administration will be tough on China. Nonetheless, his leadership style will exacerbate America's already polarized society, exposing the country's vulnerability to Chinese unrestricted warfare. This American vulnerability will boost bipartisan support concerning China in American domestic politics. One of the most significant effects will not come directly from Trump, but via the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress. Yan was inaccurate in suggesting that Trump intends to levy further tariffs on Chinese goods, impose more restrictions on U.S. investment in China and Chinese capital in the U.S. stock market, place more constraints on technology cooperation. This has been an ongoing issue in the U.S. Congress since Trump's first term, only progressing during the Biden administration. We should expect many more executive orders from the White House, in addition to judicial acts by the U.S. Congress. Korea will lack leadership until the impeachment decision is made. Since U.S.-China competition will rise, it may not be lost. Instead, we should reflect on our diplomacy during this power transfer. We were caught up in internal politics and couldn't do so. Our strategic value with the U.S. must be properly considered. We showed a lack of knowledge of what we need from the U.S. during the Nov. 7 phone call between President-elect Donald Trump and President Yoon Suk Yeol. Trumps interest in working with our shipbuilding industry sparked a nationwide focus on improving relations. This reaction was expected as most analysts had already identified shipbuilding as a key industry in their economic estimates earlier this year. As the government failed to proactively offer areas of cooperation to the Trump administration, the fact that this attention was driven entirely by a remark from the U.S. president-elect, highlights our lack of strategic thinking. The story is both telling and scary. It is time for Korea to consider its own make Korea great again strategy rather than waiting for apples to fall. Choo Jae-woo is a professor at Kyung Hee University. By Mason Richey Since my last column in early December, South Korea has experienced massive political turmoil. On Dec. 3, President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, seemingly as part of an attempted self-coup. Several hours later the National Assembly managed to convene a plenary session to revoke the martial law decree. The ensuing 10 days were marked by political chaos, including a failed National Assembly vote to impeach Yoon, arrests and impeachments of government ministers and a leadership vacuum in the presidents office. On Dec. 14, Yoon was finally impeached by the National Assembly and suspended from his duties. This did not stabilize the situation. Acting President Han Duck-soo was impeached on Dec. 27, after refusing to confirm the nominations of three Constitutional Court justices necessary to provide legitimacy for its ruling on Yoons impeachment. On Dec. 30, a Seoul court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon, who is accused of insurrection by a joint investigative body (the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, prosecutors and police). A Jan. 3 attempt to serve the warrant at the presidential residence led to an armed standoff between law enforcement and the Presidential Security Service (PSS). Acting President Choi Sang-mok has apparently refused to order the PSS to stand down. Social tension is also high, as pro- and anti-Yoon supporters gather daily in the streets. In short, South Korea is in a profound institutional political crisis. South Koreas status as a liberal democratic upholder of domestic rule of law is under threat. The U.S. response to all of this has been underwhelming. Aside from a Dec. 5 statement by Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell calling Yoons actions illegitimate, the Biden administration has not volunteered public condemnation of Yoons apparent self-coup via martial law, the leadership vacuum from Dec. 3 to 13 (when a triumvirate of Han Duck-soo, Han Dong-hoon and Yoon attempted to run state affairs) or Yoons seeming violation of the rule of law in resisting arrest for the insurrection charges. Mostly, Bidens team has called for stability, repeated a mantra invoking the ironclad nature of the U.S.-South Korea alliance and offered bromides hoping that South Korea would resolve its crisis by constitutional processes. Perhaps private communication between the Biden administration and South Korean leaders has been more forceful in insisting on holding Yoon accountable and restoring South Korea to normal liberal democratic functioning of its constitutional order. But there is not much evidence for this. Rather, the U.S. has prioritized pretending that things are business as usual. In early January, the allies agreed to fully resume normal diplomatic and security activities. For example, the U.S.-South Korea Nuclear Consultative Group has been reactivated following its brief postponement after the martial law declaration. Secretary of State Antony Blinken who was in Seoul this week for meetings as though nothing unusual had happened released a readout that made no mention of South Koreas political situation. His response to a direct question about the U.S. position on Yoons actions vaguely referenced private intergovernmental discussions before pivoting to boilerplate about democratic resilience. Despite a shocking breach of liberal democracy, Seoul has faced the bare minimum of consequences from its supposed democratic values-based partner. Why? The diplomatic answer is that it would be inappropriate for the U.S. to interfere in the domestic affairs of another state. This is nonsense the U.S. has a long history of influencing the internal affairs of allies and adversaries alike. A second, charitable interpretation is that the outgoing Biden administration believes it cannot do much about South Koreas democracy crisis anyway. Indeed, the Donald Trump administration takes office on Jan. 20 and is likely to devalue democracy as a factor in its foreign relations. Perhaps correctly, the Biden team might have figured that it would not have leverage to affect South Korean politics. Yet another possibility is that the Biden administration simply does not care as much about democratic values as it has claimed over the last four years of emphasizing values-based diplomacy. Major powers are no strangers to hypocrisy. South Korean leaders and the general public may consider themselves fortunate to have avoided significant public censure from the Biden administration. This is short-sighted. First, in the short term, Seoul needs the Biden administration to clarify that the unconstitutional use of the military in the service of martial law threatens the alliance, and that a return to robust democratic constitutional order is critical to maintaining ironclad U.S.-South Korea relations. Continuing down the current path of chaos makes it easier for the Trump administration to sell a U.S. Forces Korea drawdown, or even alliance rupture, to a U.S. Congress and public otherwise supportive of the alliance. Second, and more importantly, South Koreas hard-won democracy has been regressing for nearly a decade, and the current situation represents a dramatic worsening of the trend. Moreover, the country is deeply polarized politically, which will be exacerbated by the ongoing constitutional crisis. In turn, greater political division will make harder the political institutional reforms required to strengthen South Koreas democracy. Seoul needs the jolt of its ally telling it some hard truths. This might sting, but it would make clear where South Koreas interests lie, and encourage political compromise and unity. These words are unlikely to be offered, and South Korea will be worse off for it. Mason Richey is a professor of international politics at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, president of the Korea International Studies Association and editor-in-chief of the Journal of East Asian Affairs. PPP lawmakers back Yoon, deepening divide The political turmoil sparked by the imposition of martial law on Dec. 3 is only intensifying, if not evolving. The confusion surrounding the situation appears to be escalating, as evidenced by the bewildering failed attempt by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) to detain President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of insurrection, and his firm resistance to the move. While former Korean presidents have faced impeachment or been impeached, they have typically cooperated with investigations.Yoon, who remains suspended from office while awaiting the Constitutional Court's decision on his impeachment following the brief martial law declaration, should follow the example set by his predecessors and cooperate. The president's increasingly rigid stance, focusing solely on the Constitutional Courts review and rejecting each phase of the CIOs criminal investigation, is causing legal and public confusion that Korea cannot afford as it faces the New Year and new challenges. Many are perplexed by the presidents decision to engage in a prolonged legal battle over his martial law declaration, especially given his Dec. 7 pledge to accept "legal and political accountability." While Yoon seems to be pursuing a protracted strategy, some political maneuvering appears to be taking shape, with the president rallying his hard-core conservative base, including pro-Yoon protesters and several dozen representatives from the ruling People Power Party (PPP), who gathered outside the presidential residence compound on Monday. At this juncture, the CIO faces considerable criticism for the significant confusion it has caused. It failed to properly execute the detention warrant on Friday and, subsequently, requested the police on Monday to handle the task of detaining the president. However, citing weak legal grounds, the police refused. After a prolonged back-and-forth, both the CIO and the police announced that they would collaborate as a joint investigation team moving forward. With about a week until the Constitutional Court begins in earnest the review of the impeachment motion, the CIO, the police, and the military must improve their coordination in the criminal investigation into insurrection charges against the president. The CIO, established in 2021 to tackle corruption among senior government officials, including the president and their families, was not originally intended to handle cases of insurrection, and this limitation may explain some of its recent missteps. Nevertheless, having joined forces with other investigative units, such as the prosecution and the police, following the events of Dec. 3, the CIO should have been better prepared to address the actions of the Presidential Security Service. Acting President Choi Sang-mok is facing criticism for sending what appears to be an ambivalent message, as the standoff between the CIO and the Presidential Security Service was anticipated. However, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) should reconsider its aggressive push to hold Choi accountable. There was even talk within the DPK of impeaching Choi, but this idea has, for now, been put on hold. The DPK should refrain from continuing to pursue the impeachment of government officials amid this already tumultuous political climate. The main reason for the ongoing political turmoil is, inevitably, the president. Rather than issuing New Year's messages to his core supporters vowing to "fight to the end," the president should have voluntarily appeared for questioning in the criminal investigation and still should. A fight typically has a clear goal, and here, that objective should be to restore normalcy and return Korea to the proper functioning of a vibrant democracy. Unfortunately, this does not appear to be the direction currently being pursued. The president must take the step of appearing for questioning, as it would significantly help alleviate the legal confusion and uncertainty surrounding the situation. Both the PPP and the DPK must reassess the priority of their interests, especially with the possibility of a snap presidential election looming ahead. They should come together and move beyond the impulse to prioritize narrow self-serving or party interests, and instead focus on the broader national interest. With the recent boom in artificial intelligence, Korean chip giant SK hynix Inc. has emerged as one of the most influential players in the global semiconductor industry, especially in the high bandwidth memory (HBM) chip sector. Since developing the first HBM chips in 2013, known for their vertical interconnection of multiple DRAM chips, SK hynix has far outpaced its rivals, including Samsung Electronics Co., in producing fifth-generation HBM3E products. SK hynix's confidence as a market leader in the HBM sector is on full display at CES 2025, one of the world's largest tech shows that will kick off Tuesday in Las Vegas. At its joint exhibition booth with other SK Group affiliates, including SK Telecom Co., under the theme "Innovative AI, Sustainable Tomorrow," SK hynix highlights its lineup of world-class AI memory chips, such as HBM and enterprise solid-state drives (eSSDs). Notable products include the D5-P5335, a 122-terabyte chip developed by its U.S. subsidiary Solidigm in November 2024, which is the world's highest-capacity eSSD, along with LPCAMM2 and ZUFS 4.0 on-device AI memory chips. SK hynix also showcases cutting-edge technologies like its Compute Express Link (CXL), a next-generation interface, and processing-in-memory (PIM), an advanced AI accelerator. The centerpiece of the exhibit is a sample of its 16-layer HBM3E chip, the most advanced HBM technology to date, officially introduced in November 2024. This marks the first time the fingernail-sized chip has been displayed to the public outside Korea. This comprehensive lineup underscores SK hynix's ambition to position itself as a "full-stack AI memory provider," offering a broad array of AI-centric memory products and technologies. At the same time, SK hynix's memory chips are essential for AI data centers, which require advanced computational power, high-speed storage and low-latency networking to train and operate AI models efficiently. "Our capabilities in AI data centers are a solid foundation for further development of SK hynix and the Korean memory industry as a whole," Park Myoung-soo, vice president of SK hynix for U.S. and European sales, told reporters during a press event at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Monday. "We are confident that SK hynix will continue to contribute to the Korean semiconductor business and global AI development in the coming years." (Yonhap) Trump's return cited as reason for gov't plan to boost shipbuilding workforce By Park Jae-hyuk Conflict is intensifying in the Korean shipbuilding industry following the government's recent decision to maintain an expanded quota for migrant laborers at shipyards. As the government considers extending the temporary two-year policy that allows migrant laborers to make up 30 percent of the full-time domestic workforce at shipyards, Korean workers are demanding a rollback of the quota to the previous 20 percent. However, the demand is drawing backlash from labor activists supporting migrant workers, as well as from shipbuilders who are likely to face an increasing need to hire more workers, particularly with the expectation of cooperation with the incoming U.S. government on the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of naval vessels. Earlier this week, the unions representing Korea's eight shipyards announced plans to hold a press conference on Wednesday to urge the government and shipbuilders to stop relying on migrant laborers. Criticizing the government's visa quota expansion, the unions called on management to prioritize improving labor conditions. Their plan follows the 2025 economic policy directions announced last Thursday, in which the government said it will maintain the expanded visa quota as part of efforts to address a labor shortage in the shipbuilding industry. The decision came after Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is currently suspended from his duties, told reporters last November that he will discuss with the justice ministry the issue of expanding the E-7 visa quota for shipyard workers, in response to a question about how the government intends to address U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's proposal for cooperation in the MRO of naval vessels. Trump indicated his incoming administration's intent to strengthen partnerships with Korean shipbuilders during a phone call last November with President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is also currently suspended from his duties. In response, the unions of the eight shipyards collected signatures from over 5,000 workers throughout last month, urging the government to abandon the visa quota expansion plan. "The government is trying to fill dangerous, low-paid and unstable job positions with migrant workers," the unions said in a statement. They also expressed solidarity with migrant workers, urging the government to prioritize improving living conditions for foreign laborers. However, the unions' move has been met with resistance. Lim Jun-hyung, an activist at Workers' Solidarity, who has defended migrant laborers, described the unions' action as "short-sighted," arguing that restricting the visa quota could force foreign nationals to seek more dangerous and lower-paid jobs as undocumented immigrants. According to the activist, one of the leaders of the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' union opposed the campaign to collect signatures, claiming that it undermines solidarity between Korean and foreign workers. "The campaign will make migrant workers feel excluded," Lim said. Shipbuilders have supported the government's policy, anticipating that potential cooperation with the U.S. government in the MRO of naval vessels will increase demand for workers. "In terms of efficiency, we can consider tasking migrant laborers with simple and repetitive work during the MRO of U.S. naval vessels," a shipbuilding industry insider said on condition of anonymity. Another shipbuilding industry official stated that the expanded visa quota will allow subcontractors to be more flexible in hiring workers, given the soaring orders for ship construction. U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that the United States may use allies in its efforts to build naval vessels, amid expectations that his second administration might seek cooperation with Korea's shipbuilding industry after taking office later this month. Trump made the remarks in an interview on the Hugh Hewitt Show, a conservative radio program, amid calls for America to bolster its shipbuilding capacity amid an intensifying rivalry with China. China is known to have over 230 times the shipbuilding capacity of the U.S. During a call with now-impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol in November, Trump said the U.S. seeks to work with Korea in the shipbuilding industry, particularly in naval shipbuilding, exports, repairs and maintenance, Yoon's office has said. "We are going to do something with ships. We need ships and we may have to go a different route than you would normally go," Trump said. "We used to build a ship a day. We don't build ships anymore. We want to get that started and maybe, we'll use allies also in terms of building ships. We might have to," he added. The incoming president pointed out that while China keeps constructing ships, the U.S. is "sitting back and watching." "We may have to go to others (and) bid them out. And it's okay to do that. We'll bid them out until we get ourselves ready," he said. "We are not prepared for ships. We don't have docks." He also said that there will be an announcement on "very good" things related to the Navy, but did not elaborate further. Asked if he intends to rebuild the Navy, Trump mentioned his choice of John Phelan, a businessman, as the next Navy secretary. "We have a great gentleman ... He's fantastic ... very successful businessperson. He's in charge of it," he said. Calls have been growing for the U.S. to shore up its shipbuilding industry in cooperation with its allies as China is beefing up its naval might based on its massive capacity to build warships. China is known to possess the world's largest maritime fighting force operating 234 warships to the U.S. Navy's 219. Korea's shipbuilders have been seeking to tap into the U.S. market as America seeks to address a production shortage for its naval fleet. Last year, Korean conglomerate Hanwha Group acquired Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marking the first entry of a Korean firm into the U.S. shipbuilding industry. (Yonhap) Donald Trump Jr. is heading to Greenland, visiting the Danish territory weeks after his father renewed suggestions that the U.S. could somehow 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. 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 is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. The visit comes after President-elect Donald Trump again made comments about controlling the area in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark. 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, he said in a statement. 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 also say Trump Jr. could potentially meeting with Erik Jensen, who is chairman of the governing party Siumut and the islands equivalent to finance minister though that hasnt been confirmed. 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! 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 percent 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. 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. (AP) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday said he would step down in the coming months after nine years in power, bowing to legislators alarmed by his Liberal Party's miserable pre-election polling numbers. Trudeau said he would stay on both as prime minister and Liberal head until the party chooses a new leader to take it into the next election, which must be held by late October this year. Here is what might happen next: Will Trudeau leave office immediately? No. Trudeau will stay on both as prime minister and head of the ruling Liberal Party for now. Unlike the process in other countries like Australia, where party leaders are elected by legislators and can be removed overnight, in Canada they are chosen by special leadership conventions that can take months to organize. Will an election be held in the immediate future? No. Trudeau announced that parliament which had been due to resume work on Jan. 27 would instead be prorogued, or suspended, until March 24. This means opposition parties who had originally planned to unveil non-confidence motions to bring his minority government down as soon as they could after Jan. 27 will now have to wait until some time in May since the government controls the agenda for most of each session. If all the opposition parties vote together on the motion, the Liberals will be defeated and a new election called. As a result, a new election is unlikely to be held before May at the earliest. When parliament resumes, the government has to formally unveil its plans for the new session in the so-called Speech from the Throne. The Liberals are not obliged to make this subject to a vote of no confidence. Parliament is scheduled to start its summer break no later than June 20 and if the Liberals are still in power by then, an election would be held as scheduled at the end of October. How else could the liberals be removed from power? Under the original parliamentary calendar, the House of Commons elected chamber had been due to vote on spending measures in late March. This would trigger a confidence vote. It is unclear whether that vote would still be scheduled for late March and if it were, whether the opposition parties would vote to bring down the Liberals, whether they are led by Trudeau or a new party head. The Conservatives, who are favored to win the next election, and the left-leaning, small New Democratic Party have both made clear they want to defeat Trudeau on a formal motion of no-confidence that they themselves have presented. The Liberals could also be brought down over their annual budget, which would most likely be unveiled in April. The initial vote on the legislation implementing the budget would be a matter of confidence, but the government has some flexibility as to when that would take place. How long does the party have to choose a new leader? The nightmare Liberal scenario is that the party takes so long to choose a new leader that it has to fight the next election with Trudeau still in charge. It is likely therefore to announce a shortened contest designed to ensure that Trudeau's replacement is in office as soon as possible. When Trudeau won the Liberal leadership in April 2013, the contest lasted exactly five months. In 2006, it lasted almost eight months. Trudeau said he had asked the party to start the process of choosing a new leader. Liberal president Sachit Mehra said he would call a meeting of the party's national board this week to begin the process. He gave no further details. Would a new leader help the liberals avoid defeat? Polls strongly indicate that the Liberals will lose the election, no matter who the leader is. But the scale of the defeat could be tempered if Trudeau is not in charge. Who might run to replace Trudeau as liberal leader? The prospect of an election mauling might deter some candidates, especially if the party is crushed and ends up a shadow of its current self. Those who could run include Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, Transport Minister Anita Anand, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly as well as former finance minister Chrystia Freeland and Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England. Tradition dictates that Carney, currently Chair of Brookfield Asset Management, would need to secure a seat in parliament in order to take office if he won the party leadership. Is there any other way Trudeau can be forced out? Ultimate constitutional power in Canada lies with Governor General Mary Simon, who is the personal representative of Britain's King Charles, the head of state. She can in theory remove Trudeau, but there is virtually no chance of that happening. "The governor general won't dismiss a prime minister who still holds the confidence of the Commons," said Philippe Lagasse, a professor and constitutional expert at Ottawa's Carleton University. (Reuters) Anniversary revives debate in France on press freedoms France on Tuesday commemorated the victims of the deadly assault on the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine 10 years ago that began a spate of Islamist militant attacks on the country and stoked a debate on press freedoms that still rages today. Two masked al Qaeda-linked gunmen with assault rifles stormed what were then the offices of Charlie Hebdo and killed 12 people. The attackers sought to avenge the Prophet Mohammad nearly a decade after the atheist and frequently provocative weekly published cartoons mocking the Prophet. The killings spurred an outpouring of national sympathy expressed in the slogan "Je Suis Charlie" (I am Charlie) and prompted an impassioned debate about freedom of expression and religion in secular France. "There were scenes I will never forget," former French President Francois Hollande told Reuters. "We had to act and we did so responsibly, aware that we weren't finished and that there would be other tragedies. And there were." President Emmanuel Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo will lead the commemorations, which include a wreath-laying ceremony and a minute's silence at three locations in the capital. Al Qaeda's Yemen branch had placed Charlie Hebdo's then editor, Stephane Charbonnier, on its "wanted list" after the magazine first ran the images of the Prophet Mohammad in 2006. Two attackers born and raised in France stormed Charlie Hebdo's offices on Jan. 7, 2015, spraying gunfire. They killed eight members of the editorial team, including Charbonnier, and four other people before being shot dead by police. Over the next two days, another French-born man killed a policewoman and four Jewish hostages in a kosher supermarket in a Paris suburb. He was also shot dead by police. More than 250 people have been killed in France in Islamist violence since then, laying bare the struggle the country has faced to counter the threat posed by militants. The anniversary has prompted renewed reflection in France about press freedoms. Hollande expressed concern that there was growing self-censorship stemming from fear. "Should we publish drawings, project certain images, or compile reports when we know they may hurt personalities or communities? There is a form of self-censorship that has taken root," he said. Charlie Hebdo published a special edition to mark the anniversary, depicting a man sitting on the butt of gun in front of the word "Indestructible!" on its cover. "Today the values of Charlie Hebdo such as humor, satire, freedom of expression, ecology, secularism, feminism, to name a few have never been so under threat," it said in an editorial. Charlie Hebdo's no-taboo journalism divides France. For Muslims any depiction of the Prophet Mohammad is blasphemous. Critics of Charlie Hebdo accuse it of crossing the line and straying into Islamophobia by repeatedly publishing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad. The magazine denies this and says it lampoons all religions, including Christianity. (Reuters) Hong Kong travel agencies have adjusted their itineraries for trips to Korea in response to recent protests, with one noting inquiries and registrations had dropped by up to 30 percent recently. Steve Huen Kwok-chuen, executive director of EGL Tours, said on Monday that while the political uncertainty had not had a substantial impact on the tours his company organized, changes to the schedules had been made. "We skip some places that we used to visit if protests have broken out," he said, referring to areas in Seoul near the Office of the President in Yongsan district and the Sungnyemun Gate in Jung district, where demonstrators had previously gathered and held rallies. "Customers all understood the changes to the itineraries and we so far have not received any complaints from them," Huen said, adding that two of his company's tour groups had just come back to Hong Kong. Tour groups to the country planned for the rest of the month would depart as usual, he said. Korea has been in political turmoil since early December, when the now-suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol decreed martial law, only to reverse the decision six hours later. He was later impeached and prosecutors tried to arrest him last week, only to be rebuffed by his security forces. On Saturday and Sunday, thousands of protesters, both for and against Yoon, gathered in front of his residence and along major roads in Seoul, calling for the impeachment to be declared invalid or demanding his arrest. The arrest warrant expired on Monday. The Chinese embassy in Seoul has reminded its nationals in the country to stay away from protests, noting that Korea's immigration law banned foreigners from taking part in local political activities. "[You should] keep your distance from local political rallies and crowded places. Do not make public political speeches, pay attention to traffic control caused by rallies, and ensure personal and travel safety," the notice said. Yuen Chun-ning, chief executive officer of WWPKG travel agency, said his company had organized trips to the country every day of this week, and they would depart as scheduled. "So far there has not been any impact on the tours. But the political incidents have certainly curbed desire to travel there," he said. Yuen said that in recent days, customer inquiries and registrations for trips had dropped by 20 to 30 percent compared with before the political turmoil. Freddy Yip Hing-ning, managing director of Goldjoy Travel, said Korea remained one of the most popular destinations for Hongkongers. Data from Yanolja, Korea's top travel and accommodation booking platform operator, showed that Hong Kong ranked fifth in terms of sources of tourists, with more than 250,000 visiting the country in the first half of 2024. More than one million residents visited annually before the Covid-19 pandemic struck in 2020. The Korea Tourism Organization earlier sought to reassure visitors that daily life in the country remained the same and tourist sites were operating normally. "The government continues to prioritize the safety and convenience of travelers to Korea," it said. The Immigration Department said it had not received any requests for help from city residents in Korea. "The Immigration Department will continue to stay in touch with the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong and the Chinese embassy in Korea, closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds," a spokesman said. The Security Bureau said no alert under the Outbound Travel Alert system had been issued for the country so far. The bureau updated its travel reminder for the country on December 4, in which they asked residents to "monitor the situation, exercise caution, attend to personal safety, avoid large gatherings of people and pay attention to local announcements on the latest situation." Read the full story at SCMP. 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. Patna January 7: Purnea MP Pappu Yadav on Tuesday called for a statewide 'Bihar Bandh' on January 12 against the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Preliminary Exam alleged leak and called for a united effort to support the affected students and aspirants in the state. Pappu Yadav praised the Bihar Governor for listening to their concerns and for assuring them that a high-level probe would be conducted into the incident and an inquiry would be carried out against the accused. Speaking to ANI today, Pappu Yadav said, "The Governor listened to us with an open mind. He understood us and he said that there would not be any injustice to the students. I have asked for a probe into the whole paper leak and also called an inquiry into all the accused. The authorities have promised to conduct a high level probe and inquiry." "We have called for a 'Bihar Bandh' for January 12. It is not political. We insist everyone participate in it for the sake of the students," said Yadav. BPSC Exam Row: Refused To Accept Conditions Set by Court, Prashant Kishor Gets Unconditional Bail Hours After Sent to 14 Days of Judicial Custody. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court refused to entertain a plea raising allegations of widespread malpractices during the 70th Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Preliminary Exam held on December 13, 2024. A bench of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and KV Viswanathan asked the petitioner to approach the Patna High Court with the grievances. As the bench was not inclined to examine the case, counsel appearing for the petitioner, Anand Legal Aid Forum Trust, said the entire country witnessed Bihar police's brutality on peaceful protesters who sought cancellation of the contentious BPSC exam. Bihar police allegedly used force to control civil service aspirants who demanded the cancellation of the BPSC. Earlier on Monday, 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 the bail bond. Kishor, immediately after being released from the jail, addressed the protesting Bihar Public Service Commission aspirants and said, "There is no strength bigger than people's strength." BPSC Exam 2025: Tight Security Arrangements Made for Bihar Public Service Commission Re-Examination; Jawans Deployed at Centers (Watch Video). He further informed me about the whole incident and said that the Police took him to Beur jail but they had no documents to keep him there. 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. (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 7 (PTI) The Assam government is actively negotiating with the Defence Ministry for declaration of the adjoining areas of Guwahati towards Nagaon as defence corridor, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said here on Tuesday. In his keynote address to the diplomats from 36 countries, industry leaders and other stakeholders, Sarma said Rs 1 lakh crore new infrastructure projects are coming up in Assam with three more new bridges over the Brahmaputra, a satellite city around Guwahati with help from the Singapore government, and railway line from Guwahati to Gelephu in Bhutan, among others, according to an official statement. Also Read | Earthquake in Himachal Pradesh: Quake of Magnitude 3.4 on Richter Scale Hits Mandi. Underscoring the importance of green energy, the chief minister said the government's thrust has been all along on clean and green energy and renewal energy. "The Assam government is actively engaged in discussion with the Ministry of Defence for declaration of the adjoining areas of Guwahati towards Nagaon as defence corridor," he said, ahead of Investors and Infrastructure Summit to be held in Guwahati on February 25-26. Also Read | BPSC Exam Controversy: Purnea MP Pappu Yadav Calls for 'Bihar Bandh' on January 12 Against Paper Leak. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 'Advantage Assam Summit 2.0'. Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is expected to attend it. Sarma said Assam has been making rapid progress in infrastructure, health, education and other sectors in the past 10 years. He said the state government desires that all industries, including the Tata semiconductor plant at Jagiroad, coming up in Assam draw their energy from green power sources. Projecting a strong and robust economy of the state, Sarma said Assam is one of the strongest growth engines of the country growing at a rate of 12.5 per cent. The chief minister said besides a strong economy, the state is also an educational hub with reputed institutions, including IIT, AIIMS, IIM, Indian Institute of Technology, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, several state and central universities, agriculture university and upcoming projects like NIELIT university campus. "Assam has the requisite skill and ability to deliver. It has the wherewithal to ensure that those willing to invest get similar incentives as offered by any other state of the country," he said. Sarma said the government would create a corpus fund for production linked incentive of a whopping Rs 25,000 crore for ushering in rapid industrialisation in the state. "Come and become partners of Assam's growth story," he appealed to the industries. Heaping praise on Modi for according top priority towards development of the northeast region, he said it is the prime minister who named the northeast as 'India's growth engine' and 'Ashtalakshmi'. The chief minister appealed to the diplomats to come to Assam on February 24, a day before the 'Advantage Assam Summit 2.0' to witness the biggest spectacle of Jhumur, a folk dance of the Adivasi community, to be performed by 8,000 dancers. It will be witnessed by the prime minister and other dignitaries. "I appeal to you to come on February 24 to witness the Jhumur dance to feel the cultural vibrancy and youthfulness of Assam," he said. Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota gave an overview of the state's strengths and opportunities for investment in key sectors like tourism, fragrance and flavours, food and beverages, renewal energy and mobility and logistics. He cited Assam's locational advantage as the gateway to BBN andEAN countries, rich natural resources, reliable and robust connectivity, skilled human resources, industry friendly industrial policy, policy ecosystem, ease of doing business and robust industrial infrastructure as key reasons for investment. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mumbai, Jan 7 (PTI) Police have started the process to cancel the gun license of a Beed-based supporter of Maharashtra NCP minister Dhananjay Munde after a video surfaced wherein the former was seen firing in the air. Notably, Munde has been facing backlash from allies and the opposition following the brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, last month. Also Read | Kolkata Fatafat Result Today: Kolkata FF Result for January 7, 2025 Declared, Check Winning Numbers and Result Chart of Satta Matka-Type Lottery Game. Walmik Karad, an associate of Munde, has been arrested in an extortion case linked to the sarpanch's murder. Kailas Phad, a resident of Parli in Beed, was arrested last month and booked under the Arms Act after his old video of brandishing a gun and opening fire in the air had gone viral on various social media platforms, an official said on Tuesday. Also Read | Shillong Teer Results Today, January 7 2025: Winning Numbers, Result Chart for Shillong Morning Teer, Shillong Night Teer, Khanapara Teer, Juwai Teer and Jowai Ladrymbai. During the investigation, it came to light that the video was shot in 2023 during the Diwali festival in Parli, he said. Recently, an activist posted online a photograph showing Phad along with Munde. The official said the Beed police have sent proposals to the district collector to cancel the weapon licenses of Phad and two other persons. The collector's nod is awaited, the official said. A letter has also been sent to Phad, informing that the police have initiated the process of cancelling his weapon license, he said. The worsening law and order situation in the central Maharashtra district came to the fore after the brutal murder of Deshmukh on December 9 and the related case of extortion. Police were scrutinising all weapon licenses issued in Beed district and verifying in every case if the person has a legitimate need for a firearm, another official said. After the review, the proposals to cancel the licenses were sent to the collector, he said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) [India], January 7 (ANI): After eight jawans were killed in an Improvised explosive device (IED) blast by Maoists, the security personnel are undertaking demining exercise to prevent such incidents from happening in the incident. The demining exercise focuses on removing the unexploded land mines that may pose a threat to civilians as well. Also Read | Earthquake in Nepal: Tremors Felt Across North India, Including Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim and Delhi-NCR After Powerful Quake of Magnitude 7.1 Jolts Kathmandu. The forces have deployed personnel in heavy numbers at the location of the incident. The blast was so powerful that it created a huge hole and cracks in the concrete road. Similarly, the remains of the vehicle were scattered for several meters. Eight jawans from the District Reserve Guards (DRG) and one civilian driver were killed in an IED blast triggered by the Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Monday, an official said. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: Election Commission To Announce Schedule for Polls Today. 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. Meanwhile, 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 the Central government's commitment to 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. (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 7 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday announced that the party's new headquarters located at 9A, Kotla Road here will be inaugurated on January 15. Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate the new office -- Indira Gandhi Bhawan -- in the august presence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, the party said in a statement. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh: 25-Year-Old Woman Gets Life Imprisonment for Killing Husband With Minor Lover's Help in Bareilly. The new state-of-the-art AICC headquarters, named after India's first woman prime minister Indira Gandhi, symbolises the Congress party's continuing mission to uphold the vision of its stalwarts, it said. In a post in X, AICC general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal said, "It is time for us to move ahead with the times and embrace the new." Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Sets Example by Not Using Taxpayer Money for Personal Festivities, RTI Discloses. He said the inauguration would be done on January 15 at 10 am, in the esteemed presence of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and LoP Rahul Gandhi. The construction of Indira Gandhi Bhawan was started during Sonia Gandhi's tenure as Congress chief. Senior leaders, including Congress Working Committee members, CPP office bearers, AICC office bearers, PCC chiefs, MPs, former CMs and former Union ministers will be present on the occasion, Venugopal said. "Situated at 9A, Kotla Road, New Delhi, the Indira Gandhi Bhawan is designed to meet the evolving needs of the party and its leaders, featuring modern facilities to support administrative, organisational, and strategic activities. "This iconic building reflects the Congress party's forward-looking vision while paying homage to its extraordinary past, which has shaped the political and social fabric of India," he said. This prestigious event will bring together a distinguished gathering of leaders from across the country, the party said. About 400 top leaders have been invited to attend the ceremony, it added. Sources said the party will not vacate its present 24, Akbar Road office, which has been its headquarters since 1978 after the Congress (I) was formed, and it will continue to house some of its cells. The construction of the new AICC headquarters was delayed by several years owing to "paucity of funds" ever since the Congress lost its government at the Centre. The sources added that the offices of administration, accounts and others will shift initially. The various frontal organisations of the Congress - the Mahila Congress, Youth Congress and the NSUI, and the party's departments and cells are also likely to shift to the new premises. The sources said that the 24, Akbar Road bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi was transformed into the AICC headquarters after the party's defeat in 1977 Lok Sabha polls. The Akbar Road bungalow also once housed Sir Reginald Maxwell, who was member, Home, in Vieroy Lord Linlithgow's executive council, the sources said. The BJP has also not vacated its old party headquarters at 11, Ashoka Road, even after shifting to its new headquarters at Deendayal Upadhyaya Marg. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Hyderabad, Jan 7 (PTI) The Telangana High Court on Tuesday refused to quash the FIR against BRS working president KT Rama Rao in connection with the Formula E race case, removing the protection against the arrest given to him. On December 31, the HC had reserved its orders over the petition after hearing the arguments from the state government as well as the defence in the case registered by the Anti- Corruption Bureau. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: Know 2020 Polling Date, Results and Current Political Scenario Ahead of Vidhan Sabha Polls. The court had earlier restricted ACB from arresting the former minister until the orders were pronounced and the present order removes that protection. The ACB on December 19 registered a case against Rama Rao, also known as KTR, over alleged payments, some of it in foreign currency without approvals, to conduct the race in 2023 during the previous regime. Also Read | Manisha Koirala Hits the Gym Despite 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Striking Nepal (See Pic). 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. 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. The FIR named Rama Rao, an MLA now, as prime accused, senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and retired bureaucrat BLN Reddy as accused no 2 and 3 respectively. (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 7 (PTI) The Centre has advised states to step up surveillance for respiratory illnesses, including ILI and SARI, and spread awareness about the prevention of transmission of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) after five cases were detected in India. On Tuesday, two suspected cases of the virus were reported from Maharashtra's Nagpur. Both the patients were discharged after treatment, a senior official said. Also Read | EC on Changes in Election Rules: CEC Rajiv Kumar Defends Recent Amendment, Says 'Rules Changed To Protect Voters' Privacy, Prevent Misuse of CCTV Footage'. Their samples have been sent to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Nagpur and the National Institute of Virology in Pune, the official said. India reported its first HMPV cases on Monday after five children tested positive in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. Union Health Minister J P Nadda had said that the government was closely monitoring the situation and there was no reason to worry. Also Read | IED Blast in Jharkhand: Minor Girl Dies in Blast Allegedly Carried Out by Maoists at Jaraikela Area in West Singhbhum District. HMPV is a globally recognised respiratory virus. It is a viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections in people of all age groups. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava on Monday chaired a virtual meeting with states and Union Territories to take stock of respiratory illnesses and HMPV cases in the country and public health measures for their management, a health ministry statement said. The meeting was held amid reports of a surge in HMPV cases in China and on a day when India reported five cases. During the meeting, it was reiterated that the data from IDSP does not indicate any unusual rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illnesses (SARI) cases anywhere in the country, the statement said. Union health secretary Srivastava emphasised that there is no cause for concern for the public as HMPV has been present globally since 2001, the statement said. She advised states to strengthen and review the ILI/SARI surveillance. Srivastava reiterated that an increase in respiratory illnesses is usually seen during the winter months and that the country is well prepared for any potential surge in such cases, the statement said. The two suspected cases of HMPV detected in Nagpur, both children aged seven and 14 years, were treated in the outpatient department of a private hospital. Their samples were tested and marked as suspected, Nagpur District Collector Vipin Itankar told reporters. "The media reports about HMPV patients in Nagpur are wrong," he asserted. Itankar said there were no HMPV patients in Nagpur, and there was no need to panic. While health officials on Tuesday reiterated that there was no reason to ring the alarm bells, several state governments said they were on alert. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin is constantly monitoring the situation, Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma Subramanian told a press conference here. Of the five cases reported on Monday, two were from Tamil Nadu. The virus has not created any big impact in India, and especially in the state, the minister said, adding that the two patients, aged 45 and 69 years, who tested positive on Monday were "doing well". Meanwhile, the Odisha government asked all medical facilities and laboratories in the state to remain prepared to tackle any exigency. After holding a high-level meeting in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday morning, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said a small number of HMPV cases have been detected in some parts of the country. However, no case has been detected in Odisha so far. So, there is no need to panic, he said. Meanwhile, the BJP in Karnataka urged the state government not to take the virus lightly as it has created "havoc" in China. In the wake of two children testing positive for the virus in Bengaluru on Monday, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, R Ashoka, said the administration should immediately check the status of oxygen availability and ICU beds in government hospitals. Addressing reporters here, Ashoka said Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao's statement asking people to stay calm was aimed at preventing people from getting panicked, but no virus should be taken lightly when the public does not know anything about it. (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 7 (ANI): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is on an official visit to United Kingdom (UK), Scotland and Guernsey from January 7-11, 2025. According to an official release, Speaker Om Birla will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on 10 January 2025 in Guernsey during his visit. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh: 25-Year-Old Woman Gets Life Imprisonment for Killing Husband With Minor Lover's Help in Bareilly. He will chair this meeting in his capacity as the host of the 28th CSPOC which will be held in India in 2026. He will also meet his counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of this meeting. Before this conference, Birla is visiting the UK from January 7-9 2025 at the invitation of Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons of Parliament of the UK. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Sets Example by Not Using Taxpayer Money for Personal Festivities, RTI Discloses. He will meet Lindsay Hoyle and Lord McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London. Among his other engagements in London, Om Birla will visit Dr BR Ambedkar Museum, pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and interact with members of Indian diaspora in the UK. Birla will also visit Scotland and meet Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament and John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. He will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament. (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 [India], January 7 (ANI): The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal announced major initiatives to boost the capacity at Kandla Port worth an investment of more than Rs 57,000 crores on Tuesday. The two major announcements include the construction of a new Mega Shipbuilding Project with an investment of Rs 30,000 crores. The other major announcement is the development of a new cargo terminal outside of Kandla Creek at an investment of 27,000 crores which will add an additional 135 MTPA capacity to the Kandla Port. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh: 25-Year-Old Woman Gets Life Imprisonment for Killing Husband With Minor Lover's Help in Bareilly. Sonowal said that these capacity expansions at Kandla Port are the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision. As per the Ministry of Port Shipping and Waterways, The new Mega Shipbuilding Facility at the Kandla Port will develop technical capability in the country to manufacture big Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) or similar class of vessels with a capacity of up to 3,20,000 tonnes DWT. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Sets Example by Not Using Taxpayer Money for Personal Festivities, RTI Discloses. The facility will have the capacity to produce 32 new ships and repair 50 old ships every year. Spread over an area of more than 8,000 acres, the new facility will have components like Marina, Fishing Harbour, Townships and Marine Industrial Cluster. The project is likely to unlock tremendous value for trade interests as well as employment avenues in the region, especially in the ancillary manufacturing and assembly units to come and operate in the cluster. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "We are excited at the possibilities that this new investment is likely to bring towards contributing meaningfully towards Viksit Bharat. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, we are working towards building capacities in our country which will not only propel the growth proposition but also allow it to become a platform of production for the world at large. "The new shipbuilding facility at Kandla is a manifestation of the 'Make In India, Make for the World' vision of our beloved leader Narendra Modi ji," he added. On the other hand, in an attempt to restructure the Port, a new state-of-the-art port is being developed outside of Kandla Creek, towards Tuna. This new port will be developed using the 6 km available waterfront. With an investment of Rs 27,000 crores, an additional capacity of 135 MTPA will be developed to the existing capacity of Kandla port. The new port will handle all existing cargo jetties handling dry bulk cargo, with modern cargo handling equipment and more efficient evacuation systems. This will allow Kandla to be converted into Liquid Jetties, hence, building tremendous scope to handle liquid cargo. This will tremendously improve the waiting of Liquid Tanker Vessels and improve the Turnaround time of liquid vessels. Considering the new port's proximity to the navigation channel, the dredging requirement will come down considerably, allowing bigger vessels to dock here. Speaking further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Ports are critical hubs for the nation's economy, serving as vital links to support growth and drive economic development. Enhancing capacity in port infrastructure is essential to meet our expanding ambitions. The new facility at Kandla Port will not only significantly augment its operations but also enhance efficiency through the segregation of dry and liquid cargo. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is steadfastly progressing towards becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047. Ports are pivotal to this journey, and it is our responsibility to contribute towards this vision and work diligently to make it a reality." The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) has also been working on several other projects in mission mode to enhance the capacity of Kandla Port significantly. A new mega cargo terminal, with a capacity of 2.19 million TEU, is being constructed at Tuna Tekra under PPP mode. A new Multi Cargo Terminal at Tuna Tekra is also under consideration. This will add 18.33 MTPA to the existing capacity. Three new oil jetties are in the process of being constructed, which will further add 10 MTPA capacity. One Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) and 2 product jetties are also being constructed at Vadinar. This will further shore up the liquid cargo handling capacity by 24.5 MTRA. A Ship Repair Facility project at Vadinar is also under consideration which will be capable of servicing 32 vessels per year. (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 7 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted till March 31 interim bail to jailed self-styled godman Asaram in a 2013 rape case observing he had various ailments and needed treatment. A bench of Justices M M Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal directed 86-year-old Asaram not to meet his followers in a group post release. Also Read | Centre Evicting Me From Chief Minister's House, Claims Delhi CM Atishi; BJP Refutes Charges, Amit Malviya Says 'She Is Lying'. "We have also taken note of the medical records pertaining to the petitioner and the fact that he was given periodical treatment outside the prison. Hence, we deem it fit to grant bail to the petitioner on medical ground till March 31, 2025.... subject to the condition that the petitioner shall not meet his followers in a group," it said. Asaram, however, would remain in jail as he faces another rape case in Jodhpur. Also Read | EC on Changes in Election Rules: CEC Rajiv Kumar Defends Recent Amendment, Says 'Rules Changed To Protect Voters' Privacy, Prevent Misuse of CCTV Footage'. The court said it won't consider the plea on merits, but only the medical grounds. "There shall be three security personnel in the form of police officers to be present in the vicinity of the petitioner. We make it clear that the police personnel will not interfere with the petitioner's medical treatment, his meeting with any individual and in a normal or lawful conduct," the bench said. Senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, appearing for Asaram, submitted his client's health condition was precarious. Asaram, he said, was taken in and out of prison on more than thirteen occasions for medical treatment, and even the Rajasthan High Court granted him parole after taking into consideration his condition. Solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the state government, opposed the grant of bail and said though the ailment and his age were not in dispute, Asaram could be treated inside the prison. Mehta said three witnesses in the case were killed and said Asaram had the potential, capacity and finances to tamper with the evidence. "He is in the last leg. Whatever may be the nature of the offence when it comes to the health of the convict, the concern is of the state and well as this court," said the top court. A sessions court in January, 2023, convicted Asaram in the 2013 rape case, filed by a woman who was living in his ashram near Gandhinagar at the time of the crime. The Gujarat High Court on August 29 rejected Asaram's plea for the suspension of life imprisonment in the case. Refusing to suspend the sentence and grant him bail, the high court observed no case for relief was made out. It said his contentions about possible delay in the disposal of his appeal, age and the medical conditions were not relevant to the grant the relief. The court also considered the alleged murder of two boys at his Sabarmati ashram besides the attacks on witnesses and the relatives of victims. Asaram's plea said he was a victim of conspiracy, and the allegations of rape were false. The plea said the trial court erred in accepting the survivor's explanation for a delay of 12 years in lodging the complaint. He is currently lodged in Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan in another rape case. (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 7 (ANI): A scuffle broke out between Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) workers and Youth Congress members in front of Gandhi Bhavan in Telangana's Hyderabad on Tuesday. Youth Congress members had staged a protest outside the BJP office over party leader Ramesh Bidhuri's purported statement against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra when the scuffle broke out prompting police to detain BJYM workers. Also Read | Atul Subhash Suicide Case: 'Missing' Child of Deceased Techie Currently in Haryana Hostel, Bengaluru Police Told. BJYM leader Nithin alleged that Youth Congress members vandalised BJP's office and said that they would give a "befitting reply." "Rahul Gandhi talks about the Constitution always, I want to ask him if his Constitution to vandalise someone's office. Today, Youth Congress leaders entered the BJP office and attacked our workers. We will give a befitting reply to them now," Nithin said. Also Read | We Are Opening 'Sheesh Mahal'; Challenge BJP To Open PM Narendra Modi's 'Rajmahal': AAP's Sanjay Singh. Bidhuri, a former MP, who is contesting Delhi assembly polls from the Kalkaji constituency, has apologised for his remarks on Priyanka Gandhi. Earlier, 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 in the national capital. Speaking to ANI, Bidhuri referred to remarks made by RJD supremo Lalu Yadav in the past and said Congress had remained silent then. "Such remarks 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 government. If anyone is hurt by my remark, I express regret over it and I take my words back," the BJP leader said. Bidhuri, who is no stranger to controversy, had also commented about Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, who is also contesting from Kalkaji constituency. "Atishi, who was Marlena, is now Singh. She has even changed her father," he said, addressing a gathering. The battle between the Congress, AAP, and BJP has become intense with allegations and counter-allegations flying thick and fast. 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) Balasore (Odisha) Jan 7 (PTI) A student of class 9 of a high school was injured when his classmate allegedly stabbed him outside the school premises in Odisha's Balasore district on Tuesday, police said. The incident happened at Dahamunda Nodal High School in Bhograi block of Balasore district. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: From Arvind Kejriwal to Parvesh Verma and Alka Lamba, List of Key Candidates From AAP, BJP, Congress and Their Constituencies. Police said that the injured boy was admitted to nearby Dahamunda Primary Healthcare Centre. The accused boy was waiting outside the school near a road and suddenly attacked the victim with a knife when he was on his way to the School's Annual function, the police officer said. Also Read | Earthquake in Himachal Pradesh: Quake of Magnitude 3.4 on Richter Scale Hits Mandi. They had quarrelled among themselves on Monday. It is suspected that the boy attacked the victim to take revenge, he said. "An investigation has been initiated into the incident," the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Kamarda police station, Premada Nayak, said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Visuals of people using bonfire to keep warm (Photo/ANI) New Delhi [India], January 7 (ANI): A thick layer of fog continued to blanket North India on Tuesday as the region battled cold conditions. In Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, locals and tourists said that that it was very cold and further added that the winter arrangements made were very good. Also Read | Stocks To Buy or Sell Today, January 7, 2025: ICICI Prudential, Bajaj Finserv and Caplin Point Among Shares That May Remain in Spotlight on Tuesday. "It is very cold right now, but the arrangements made are very good. We are sitting near bonfires to keep ourselves warm..." said a local speaking to ANI. Ratan Jaiswal, a tourist, who came from Prayagraj said that there was no shortage of services in Ayodhya. Also Read | Delhi Weather Update: Delhiites Wakes Up to Thick Layer of Fog Amid Cold Wave in National Capital, Plummeting Temperature (Watch Videos). "It is very cold here in Ramnagari, we even took a dip in the holy river. The arrangements made here are very good and we are not feeling the shortage of anything..." said Ratan Jaiswal, a tourist. The minimum temperature recorded in Ayodhaya as per the Indian Meteorological Department was nine degrees Celsius. In Prayagraj, devotees flocked to the Sangam Ghat despite the chilly weather conditions. Amit Kumar, a tourist said that the weather has been extremely chilly yet it could not stop the tourists from taking a dip in the holy rivers. "It has been extremely cold here...however we have come here to pray and we also took a dip in the holy river. We brought all the required clothing we needed.." Kumar said speaking to ANI. Vinod, another tourist applauded the government's arrangements made. "The Maha Kumbh mela is about to start here and the government has made very good arrangements, they have improved since last year.." said Vinod. Minimum temperature recorded in Prayagraj was 10 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, in Rajasthan, visuals showed fog blanketed around the city leading to no visibility. Visuals also showed people sitting near bonfires to keep themselves warm. The minimum temperature recorded in Jaipur was 11 degrees Celsius as per IMD. Meanwhile, in Delhi, the temperature recorded was 11.6 degrees Celsius as per IMD. As per the Met Department, the minimum forecasted temperature is 8 degrees Celsius for the day while the maximum temperature is anticipated to reach around 19 degrees Celsius along with "dense fog" blanketing the city. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mark Obenshain has a recurring nightmare. As the Harrisonburg Republican and state senator prepares to return to Richmond for the Virginia General Assembly's upcoming session, which starts Wednesday, he worries about the long-term effects of a state law passed in 2020 called the Virginia Clean Economy Act. The legislation mandates the state's largest public utilities, Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power, convert all electricity production to 100% renewable energy Dominion by 2045, Appalachian by 2050. Obenshain is worried about what this means for his largely rural 2nd Senate District, which encompasses the city of Harrisonburg as well as all or part of Augusta, Bath, Highland, Page and Rockingham counties. The only way to meet those targets is by paving rural Virginia in solar panels," Obenshain told the News Virginian. The developers of large-scale solar projects have been targeting rural Virginia for years due to the abundance of affordable, cleared land that, in many cases, has been farmed for so long it can no longer support agricultural enterprises. They have been pushed not only by environmentalists looking for cleaner sources of power than coal but data center developers, whose projects require considerable energy to function. Virginia is now the data center capital of the world, with more than 300 in operation and more coming online. Despite the pressing need for more energy, solar projects in Virginia have faced considerable pushback, with multiple proposals killed just in the past year. Opponents say solar farms are unsightly additions to rural communities, which often rely primarily on agritourism to drive their economies, driving down property values and hurting existing businesses. There are also concerns about water runoff if farms are not properly managed. Obenshain worries about talk in Richmond that would give the state the final say on where and if a solar farm is built. Doing so, he said, would deprive local governments of their discretion over their comprehensive plans for future development. Those local governments need to be able to approve or deny solar projects based on their comprehensive plans, Obenshain said. These decisions are inherently local," he said. A solar project, Obenshain said, is no different than a shopping center when it comes to the necessary approvals, permits and rezoning of land. Under legislation Obenshain plans to introduce this legislative session, the clean energy deadlines would be changed and the formula for meeting the targets would change. "We would replace mandates with emissions intensity targets," he said, meaning emissions would be reduced rather than completely eliminated. If Obenshain is unsuccessful in getting legislation passed, he fears the consequences. We would be taking significant farmland out of agriculture. We would be depriving local governments of their prerogative and giving special treatment to utility-scale solar for real estate and commercial development, Obenshain said. The state senator was blunt: I dont want someone in Richmond or some board making decisions for Rockingham and Augusta counties. Obenshain has a lengthy agenda considering the brevity of the six-week session in Richmond. In addition to his energy bill, he is a chief co-patron of a bill that would exempt tips from state income tax. That legislation is one of Gov. Glenn Youngkins priorities too, and at the federal level, Obenshain said it was one of the few issues major party presidential candidates agreed on. President-elect Donald Trump, a Republican, was the first presidential candidate to broach exempting tips from federal taxation. His Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, later came out in support. Obenshain also wants to remove a state cap of $4 million being spent on the preservation of short-line railroads. His proposed legislation would not raise taxes but would remove the cap on Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation funds now imposed. The benefit to Obenshains district would include taking freight off congested Interstate 81 and putting more freight on rail. This legislation removes the arbitrary cap now imposed," he said. Obenshain is renewing his efforts for the third year in a row to get Virginia Line of Duty benefits to the families of slain police officers at private police departments, such as those at Bridgewater College in Rockingham County and Wintergreen Resort on the other side of Afton Mountain in Nelson County. That legislation was spurred by the deaths of Bridgewater officers J.J. Jefferson and John Painter, killed in a 2021 shooting, and Wintergreen officer Christopher Wagner, killed in a 2022 shooting. As evidenced by these fatalities, police on a daily basis are exposed to the same threats as sheriffs deputies and public police officers," Obenshain said. He said the benefits could be obtained at no cost to the commonwealth by allowing the colleges to pay the premiums. Such legislation failed in subcommittee last session, to the shock of many because of its broad support, but Obenshain said he is optimistic he can get a bill over the finish line in this year's session. New Delhi, Jan 7 (PTI) Exim Bank of India has raised USD 1 billion (about Rs 8,570 crore) from overseas at lowest ever spread to fund business growth, the Department of Financial Services said on Tuesday. "Fantastic start to the year by Indian issuers in global capital markets, with state-owned @IndiaEximBank raising $1 bn 10-year USD-denominated bonds at lowest ever spread (100bps) for USD-denominated public bond by a BBB-rated issuer in Asia," the Department of Financial Services (DFS) said in a post on X Also Read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start and End Dates in Prayagraj: What Are the Six Shahi Snan Dates? Know Important Mahakumbh Mela Bathing and Spiritual Rituals To Mark the Grand Festival in Uttar Pradesh. This demonstrates the confidence of overseas investors in the India story, it said, adding, this landmark transaction marks a strong start to the year for Indian issuers in the international debt markets, supporting Exim Bank's mandate and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat. Exim Bank provides financial assistance to exporters and importers, and functions as the principal financial institution for coordinating the working of institutions engaged in financing export and import of goods and services with a view to promoting the country's international trade. Also Read | January 7 Birthdays and Birth Anniversaries: Know About Famous People and Celebrities Born on January 7. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Shimla, Jan 7 (PTI) Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a reduction of 6.48 per cent in the number of road accidents in the year 2024 from 2023, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said in a statement issued here on Tuesday. Fatalities also showed significant decline with 806 lives were lost in the year 2024 compared to 892 in 2023. Additionally, the number of injuries also dropped from 3,449 in the year 2023 to 3,290 in the year 2024. Also Read | Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start and End Dates in Prayagraj: What Are the Six Shahi Snan Dates? Know Important Mahakumbh Mela Bathing and Spiritual Rituals To Mark the Grand Festival in Uttar Pradesh. Sukhu said that the state government has launched targeted awareness campaigns to promote responsible driving behaviour, improved the road infrastructure and implemented safety measures in accident-prone areas which resulted in a decrease in the number of road accidents. Himachal witnessed a 6.48 per cent decline in road accidents which reduced from 2,253 in the year 2023 to 2,107 in 2024. Also Read | January 7 Birthdays and Birth Anniversaries: Know About Famous People and Celebrities Born on January 7. The government has also strengthened the enforcement of traffic regulations and has enhanced the emergency response system to ensure timely medical assistance to accident victims, he said in a statement issued here on Tuesday. The chief minister urged the people of the state to cooperate with the law enforcement agencies by adhering to traffic rules, avoiding over-speeding and refraining from harsh driving. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo is marking 10 years since the terror attacks in its Paris office by running a cartoon contest asking for God-mocking submissions.How should cartoonists satirize the Almighty? To commemorate the victims of the 2015 terrorist attack in its newsroom, French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo held a contest titled #MockingGod, with winners announced on January 7. Also Read | India News | AAP Likely to Spend Rs Five Crore in Cash on Paid Employees in New Delhi Alone, Alleges Sandeep Dikshit. Professional press caricaturists and cartoonists were called on to draw "the meanest and funniest caricature about God," with the winners published in the magazine. Also Read | Business News | Battling Noise Induced Hearing Loss: Dr. Shree Rao Flags off Deafness Free India Campaign. The contest marks the 10th anniversary since a massacre in the magazine's editorial offices on January 7, 2015. Twelve people, including 8 members of the Charlie Hebdo editorial team, were murdered by Islamist extremists. The satirical magazine was targeted because it had repeatedly mocked the Prophet Muhammad. Among those who lost their lives were some of France's most famous cartoonists, including Cabu, Charb and Wolinski. Freedom of the press under attack The Charlie Hebdo murders were seen as an attack on freedom of the press, and freedom of speech in general. The slogan "Je suis Charlie" (I am Charlie) trended around the world. But it also sparked a backlash from some who felt the publication routinely went too far. A decade after the attack, some observers say the need for cartoonists and their ability to generate laughter even if controversial is greater than ever due to repression of freedom of speech globally. "We are monitoring the situation of international cartoonists wherever they are on the planet, and I must say the trend is really bad," said cartoonist Patrick Lamassoure, known by the pen name Kak. "China, Russia, Iran, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brazil, among others, the majority of the world's population lives in countries where there is press censorship [and] cartoonists are often attacked and threatened." Lamassoure is the president of Cartooning for Peace, an international network of press cartoonists "who use humor to fight for respect for cultures and freedoms." Charlie Hebdo's 2025 contest called on submissions from "everyone who is fed up with living in a society directed by God and religion," said the contest website. While the results could cause further controversy, Lamassoure, whose organization is hosting a number of events dedicated to Charlie Hebdo in January, is in full support. "I think it's great because it's something that Charlie Hebdo would have done, even if nobody had attacked them," he told DW. France's long history of political cartooning In France, political cartoons gained popularity after the French revolution, when cartoonists were exposing abuses of power. The tradition of anti-religious cartoons has since stayed strong in France. "Cartooning represents the ability of citizens to look our leaders in the eye and say 'we see what you're doing and we can laugh at you'," said Lamassoure. Since it was founded in 1970, Charlie Hebdo has been known for testing the boundaries of what can and can't be said according to French hate speech laws. The magazine not only makes fun of Islam, but also of Christianity and Judaism. According to French law, as long as violence is not incited and minorities are protected, mockery of religion is permitted. How far is too far? Even if cartoons upset some people, Lamassoure argues that only the law can decide what is acceptable. "Because anything I say and do will piss someone off anything. And the only limit can be the law because the law we all agree on," he said. But even before 2015, the magazine gained notoriety for cartoons that critics said crossed the line into bigotry and was subject to attacks. Shortly after Charlie Hebdo released a spoof edition "guest-edited" by the Prophet Mohammad, a firebomb damaged the building housing the magazine in 2011. But that kind of provocative commentary is all in a day's work for political cartoonists. "And if people are angry because they don't like what you say, that's good, that's freedom of expression as long as you don't break any law," said Lamassoure. A responsibility to poke fun at those in power But there are still people willing to break the law in order to express their objection to Charlie Hebdo's legally-protected artistic expression. This means that the magazine's Paris staff must do their work in secret premises that are strictly guarded. Some employees also remain under police protection. According to Cartooning for Peace, France is one of the last bastions keeping satire alive. No topic including religion is off limits. "There are not that many countries left where you can actually laugh about whatever you want to and not be threatened for it," says Lamassoure. He feels a "responsibility to keep that flame going" because the ability to laugh at people in power is a "fundamental need of societies [and] very important freedom." "Even people who criticize cartoonists need that freedom," he added. Edited by Tanya Ott (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 07, 2025 01:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Quetta [Pakistan], January 7 (ANI): Sabiha Baloch, a prominent leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has sharply condemned potential negotiations between Saudi Arabia and the Pakistani government to acquire a 15 per cent stake in the controversial Reko Diq mining project in Balochistan. In a statement shared on X, Sabiha argued that any deal made without the explicit consent of the Baloch people would amount to a gross exploitation of local resources, further marginalizing an already oppressed community. Also Read | Anita Indira Anand, George Chahal: 2 Indian-Origin MPs Among Key Contenders To Replace Justin Trudeau As Canada PM, Chrystia Freeland Also in Race. Sabiha expressed her concerns that such an agreement would be in violation of international principles, specifically citing Article 11 of the Cairo Declaration and Articles 1(2) and 55 of the United Nations Charter. According to Sabiha, these agreements bypass the Baloch people, who have a long history of resisting external control over their natural resources. "The Baloch have long fought to protect their land and resources from outside exploitation, and this move would further deepen their disenfranchisement," she stated. She also accused Pakistani officials of leveraging Balochistan's vast natural wealth to compensate for widespread corruption and financial mismanagement at the national level. Sabiha described the proposed deal as part of a broader government strategy of resource extraction that continues to neglect the rights of the local population. She warned that foreign investors, particularly in large-scale projects like Reko Diq, would be complicit in this exploitation if they proceeded without the approval of the Baloch people. Also Read | Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Set To Launch on January 10, Jeff Bezos's Aerospace Company Targets NG-1 As First National Security Space Launch Certification Flight. Sabiha further emphasized the historical and cultural ties between the Baloch and Arab nations, warning that Saudi Arabia's involvement in the Reko Diq deal could jeopardize these long-standing relationships. She suggested that if Saudi Arabia proceeds with the deal without the consent of the Baloch people, it would be viewed as an act of systemic oppression, further fueling resentment toward the Kingdom. The Baloch leader called on Saudi Arabia to reconsider its position and refrain from engaging in projects that ignore the rights of the Baloch. She stressed that any agreement made without the Baloch people's consent would be unjust and would inevitably face strong resistance. (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 [India], January 7 (ANI): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday embarked on a five-day official visit to United Kingdom (UK), Scotland and Guernsey, an official statement said. Birla is visiting the UK from January 7-9 at the invitation of Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons of Parliament of the UK. He will meet Hoyle and McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London, the statement added. Also Read | South Korea Political Crisis: Court Grants Extension of Warrant To Detain Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol Over His Short-Lived Imposition of Martial Law. Among his other engagements in London, Birla will visit B R Ambedkar Museum, pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and interact with members of Indian diaspora in the UK, the statement said. Birla will also visit Scotland and meet Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, and John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. He will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament. Also Read | Tibet Earthquake: 6.8-Magnitude Quake in Dingri County in Xigaze Kills 126 People, Tremors Felt in Nepal. Birla will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on January 10 in Guernsey. He will chair this meeting in his capacity as the host of the 28th CSPOC which will be held in India in 2026. He will also meet his counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of this meeting. In a post on X, he said, "Leaving for UK and Guernsey, at the invitation of Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons. Will hold bilateral meetings with him and Rt. Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London. Will visit Dr. B. R. Ambedkar House and Museum and pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora in the UK." https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325032521265344 "In Scotland, will meet Rt. Hon. Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, and Rt. Hon. John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. Will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament," he added. https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325039207027157 https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325044126880025 "In Guernsey, will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in my capacity as the host of 28th CSPOC to be held in India in 2026. Will also meet my counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of the meeting," Birla 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) Washington, Jan 7 (PTI) Two Indian companies -- Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals -- have been charged with criminal conspiracies to distribute and import fentanyl precursor chemicals to the United States. Bhavesh Lathiya, a founder and senior executive of Raxuter Chemicals, was arrested in New York on January 4 on the same charges. US Magistrate Judge Joseph A Marutollo for the Eastern District of New York has ordered detained pending trial. If convicted, Lathiya faces a maximum penalty of 53 years in prison. Also Read | Justin Trudeau Steps Down as Liberal Party Leader, to Resign as Canada PM After New Prime Minister Chosen. This is probably for the first time that Indian companies and its executives have been charged for distribution and import of fentanyl precursor chemicals to the United States. Most Chinese companies have been charged for such criminal conspiracies for distribution and import of Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, which is considered to be the deadliest drug threat currently facing the US. It is a highly addictive synthetic opioid that is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Receives Letter From President Joe Biden, Affirms Commitment To Solidify India-US Partnership. We allege these companies, and a company founder and senior executive who is now in custody, conspired to distribute and import fentanyl precursor chemicals from India to the United States and Mexico, said Attorney General Merrick Garland on Saturday. (We) will continue to take the fight against fentanyl directly to alleged foreign precursor chemical exporters like the companies and the individual indicted today because the best way to stop illicit fentanyl from killing Americans and devastating communities is by preventing it from being manufactured in the first place, said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. In the indictment unsealed Monday, Raxuter Chemicals and Lathiya are charged with conspiracy to distribute and import a listed chemical, distribution and importation of a listed chemical knowing it would be used to manufacture fentanyl, smuggling, and other related offenses. Athos Chemicals is charged with similar offenses, including conspiracy to distribute and import a listed chemical and distribution and importation of a listed chemical. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, DC [US], January 7 (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. Also Read | Justin Trudeau Steps Down as Liberal Party Leader, to Resign as Canada PM After New Prime Minister Chosen. 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. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Receives Letter From President Joe Biden, Affirms Commitment To Solidify India-US Partnership. 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) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) ISRO SpaDeX Mission: Space Agency Successfully Undocks SpaDeX Satellites, Paves Way for Indias Lunar Exploration; Union Minister Jitendra Singh Extends Congratulations (Watch Videos) Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse 2025 Date and Time: Is It Chandra Grahan on Holi in India? Everything To Know About the Celestial Event in March Blood Moon 2025 Superstitions: Chandra Grahan on March 14, Myths and Beliefs Associated With Lunar Eclipse That You Might Have Thought To Be True Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore To Further Stay in Space As NASA and SpaceX Delay Mission Meant To Bring Back Astronauts Stranded on ISS US Plane Fire: American Airlines Plane Catches Fire at Denver Airport Gate; Passengers Evacuated on Slides (Watch Videos) Russia-Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin Agrees in Principle With US Proposal for Ukraine Ceasefire, Says More Discussions Are Needed Egypt Train Accident: At Least 8 People Killed As Passenger Train Slams Into Minibus in Suez Canal Province of Ismailia Trade War: Donald Trump Threatens Retaliatory 200% Tariff on European Wine, Champagne and Spirits After EU Proposes American Whiskey Tariff New Delhi, January 7: Apple has reportedly fired 185 employees, including several Indians, after uncovering a salary fraud linked to misuse of the companys charity clause. The employees allegedly exploited a programme that allows donations to charitable organisations using it to gain financial benefits. The incident reportedly took place at Apples headquarters in Cupertino, California. As per a report of Firstpost, Apple has fired 185 employees for salary fraud. As per multiple reports, Apple fired its employees at its headquarters in Cupertino after finding that these employees indulged in monetary fraud to boost their compensation. According to reports, among the employees who were fired, six have been identified by authorities in the Bay Area, and warrants have been issued for their arrest. However, none of these six individuals are Indian. US Layoffs 2025: Job Cuts Coming to United States This Year As Companies Adjust Their Workforce to Prepare for Market Shifts, Says Report. Reports also indicate that many of the fired employees are of Indian origin. They are reportedly accused of misusing certain Telugu charity organisations in the US to engage in fraud activities. Apple has not released an official statement regarding the situation. Multiple reports indicate that the district attorney's office in Los Angeles, reports that Apple has terminated several employees from its Bay Area offices due to the misuse of its Matching Grants programme. Employees reportedly donated funds to nonprofits, which were subsequently matched by Apple. However, it is alleged that these nonprofits returned the original donations back to the employees, which allegedly enabled them to keep Apple's matching contributions. If these claims are accurate, it could breach US tax laws, as the employees' false claims might constitute tax fraud. Boston Dynamics Layoffs: US-Based Robotics Company Cuts 5% of Workforce Amid Cash Flow Challenges, Faces Intensified Competition Ahead, Says Report. Multiple reports indicate that many of the fired employees are of Indian origin, with some allegedly linked to Telugu community organisations in the US. However, the detail has not been confirmed by authorities. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 07, 2025 08:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). 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. The family of Hannah Leonard have shared that there is "light at the end of the tunnel" as her transfer to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin was approved after a bacterial infection in her spinal fluid delayed the move by five weeks. During the time it took for the infection to clear, medical staff had to cease much of the treatment Hannah was receiving which added to the delay in her transfer to Dublin. Speaking on RTE's Today with Claire Byrne, Hannah's father Kevin Leonard said: "There's finally a light at the end of the tunnel in that it looks like within the next week or two we will be able to get her home." READ MORE: Gardai launch urgent appeal for teen missing from home since St Stephen's Day Hannah's parents have both been by her side in Catania since her accident, Kevin explained that after three months Hannah's mother has returned to Ireland with their other children as they return to school. Speaking on the response the GoFundMe page set up by Hannah's uncle Ralph Leonard, Kevin said: "The response to the GoFundMe has been overwhelming for Vanessa and I." Kevin explained that the GoFundMe was initially set up to get help from family and friends who could offer their assistance. He said: "We never expected this to raise anything close to what it has raised for her, it's fantastic and three months in there's still funds coming into it." When asked about what lies ahead in terms of Hannah's road to recovery, her father said: "This is a long term injury and Hannah's got a long journey to go and we still don't know where she will land once that journey is finished. "In that journey there's going to be a lot of therapy, a lot of care, there will probably need to be adjustments made to our house, we'll probably have to get specialist equipment, so there will be a lot of future costs associated with Hannah and her condition." 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. 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. Gardai investigating the violent death of Adnan Asic in Dublin more than two years ago have arrested a man as part of the murder inquiry. Mr Asic, 60, was walking home after a night out in the Blanchardstown area on October 22, 2022 when he was attacked and assaulted. He sustained serious injuries and was found lying on the ground just before 3am and latet died in hospital. The deceased was originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, but had been living in Ireland for nearly 30 years. In an update, issued this Tuesday evening, gardai confirmed there has been a development in the case. "Gardai in Blanchardstown have today, Tuesday, January 7, 2025, arrested a man in connection with the death of Adnan Asic, 60 years, in the Dublin 15 area in the early hours of Saturday, October 22, 2022. An Garda Siochana has now commenced a murder investigation," said a spokesperson. The arrested man, aged in his 40s, is currently detained pursuant to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, at a Garda station in north Dublin area. READ ALSO: Status Yellow, Orange and Red - what do the different Met Eireann weather warnings mean? Investigating gardai are also renewing their appeal to any person who was in the vicinity of Blanchardstown Road North, the Old Navan Road and Blanchardstown Shopping Centre and surrounding areas between 12am and 3am on Saturday, October 22, 2022, and who observed any activity which drew their attention, to come forward. In particular, they are appealing to anyone who saw two men together at the junction of Blanchardstown Road North and the Old Navan Road, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 in the early hours of October 22, 2022 to contact them. "Any road users, particularly taxi drivers, or pedestrians who were travelling in these areas at these times who may have camera footage, including dash-cam, are asked to make this footage available to gardai," added the spokesperson. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Blanchardstown garda station on 01 666 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. A Montessori school in Laois has called on the council to salt the roads as "they are in a very bad way". Kilminchy School House in Portlaoise posted on Facebook earlier today, warning parents and anyone else walking the nearby roads to "exercise extreme caution" as the footpaths could still be extremely icy. The post reads, DEAR PARENTS ( CAUTION NEEDED) Please note that the junction into the Grenville Estate off the Dublin Rd, may still be icy. Please exercise extreme caution. We cleared and salted the road and path again from above our entrance down to the junction as best we could last night. It is much improved today. We also wrote to the Council last night to Please grit/ salt the roads. Don't understand WHY NONE of the access roads from the estates onto the main roads are not salted. Kilminchy estate is in a very bad way, due to the gradients, slopes, bends of the roads. Many parents, including Hospital staff, need us open so they can go to work and the safety of all our community and staff is paramount. Appreciate any assistance over the coming days. Thank you. READ NEXT: Homeless Laois people offered assistance to keep out of icy weather Laois County Council has issued advice to road users after its Severe Weather Assessment Team met on Tuesday, January 7. The local authority has warned that hazards may not be as visible on the county's road network as they were in recent days with the arrival of the status orange low temperature and ice warning this evening. "County Laois is the subject of an Orange Weather Warning for Low Temperature/Ice, from 8pm this evening (Tuesday) until 10am tomorrow (Wednesday)," said a spokesperson for the Council. "Severe frost, icy stretches and freezing fog are likely tonight and over the coming days. "Notwithstanding ongoing salting of rostered routes, motorists are urged to exercise caution on the road network, to slow down and to prioritise use of treated roads. "Hazards remain on the road network and those hazards may not be as visible as they were in recent days. "Check fog lights and use them appropriately. Exercise patience and avoid overtaking." Meanwhile the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has appealed for motorists to treat every road as treacherous. "Risks remain for all road users. Caution advised as even treated surfaces can be hazardous," said the RSA. "With extreme low temperatures persisting and hazardous conditions such as frost, ice, fog and lying snow affecting roads nationwide, the RSA is renewing its call for all road users to remain vigilant and exercise caution. Road users are asked to treat every road as treacherous in the context of widespread black ice, make only essential journeys, take it slowly and allow extra time for travel to reduce risks for all and to relieve the pressure on the emergency services." Three Kildare businesses have been nominated for the 2025 National Digital Awards. Leading digital business representative body, Digital Business Ireland, has this week announced the finalists of the awards. Digital Business Ireland launched the organisations fifth Digital Awards in October in order to recognise the best digital, ecommerce and innovation businesses in Ireland while celebrating talent across the industry. This years esteemed judging panel were tasked with identifying five finalists across 16 categories including websites, innovation and people, following several hundred submissions. The Awards include the coveted National Website of the Year which identifies Irelands best website for functionality, compliance and CX, and the Digital Advocate of the Year. In Kildare, Newbridge Silverware has been nominated for Website of the Year, Newbridge-based McCullagh Digital is up for Small Business Website of the Year and Gastro Life, which has a clinic in Naas, is in the running for E-Commerce Business of the Year. The Westmeath-based businesses include Kash Beauty which is nominated for Small Business Website of the Year, Expert Electrical which is nominated for Medium Business Website of the Year, Heavins for the Most Trusted Website of the Year, and Midlands Ireland and TapiTag have both been nominated for Digital Impact of the Year. The two Wexford finalists include the Natural Health Store which has been nominated for Medium Business Website of the Year, and Samantha Kelly, who uses the online name Tweeting Goddess and has been nominated in the both the Digital Advocate and Digital Trailblazer categories. Finally, in Wicklow, wooden toy shop Dlulukaloo and CBD sellers Hemp Heros have both been nominated for Sustainable Business of the Year, while Danielle OConnell, Creative Director at the branding agency Good as Gold, has been nominated for the Women in Digital category. The finalists will now be invited to make a further submission to the judges which will be considered in February by the judging panel made up of experts from across the digital sector including Caroline Dunlea of Core Optimisation, Victor Timon of Byrne Wallace, Ashley McDonnell of Puig, and others. The winners will then be announced at a supper and prosecco reception on the evening of March 27 2025, at TwentyTwo, in Dublin 2. Chairperson of Digital Business Ireland, Caroline Dunlea said: We were blown away by the hundreds of entries we received, the quality of the applicants and the individual stories of many businesses as they embraced digital in their operations over the course of this year. The Irish business community is relentless in its pursuit to reinvent and deliver solutions for their customers, while moving our economy forward. They have a remarkable ability to adapt, pivot and innovate in a changing world. This proved to be very inspiring to all the judging panel. Ms Dunlea added: Selecting the finalists has proven to be a really difficult task in circumstances where the quality and standard was so high. I want to thank everyone who engaged with the process and congratulate those businesses, innovators and talented professionals who have made it through to the next round of the Digital Awards. For those who did not progress this time, please know that your contributions are no less valued, and we encourage you to continue striving, growing and sharing your stories in the future. We look forward to seeing your innovative efforts again in next year's awards. The streets of Drumshanbo were transformed into a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, and tradition as the town hosted the much-anticipated Mummers Parade. Organized by the Sowing the Seed project, the event celebrated the rich heritage of mumming while fostering a deep sense of community and creativity. Participants and spectators travelled from across Ireland and beyond to join the festivities. The parade was a testament to the enduring appeal of this traditional art form, where masked performers and musicians brought storytelling and celebration to life. Edwina Guckian, a key organizer, reflected on the magic of the evening, saying, What a special night for a community of seed sowers and mummers. The Mummers Parade in Drumshanbo last night was magic! Thank you to every one of you that came and joined us in Leitrim from all corners of Ireland and beyond. We danced the night away at The Mummers Join to the Tulla Ceili Band, celebrating the end of another year of growing, harvesting, creating, mumming and bringing communities together. Mile buiochas! The evening culminated in an unforgettable ceili, with attendees dancing to the music of the renowned Tulla Ceili Band. The joyful atmosphere highlighted the close of another year filled with growing, harvesting, creating, and connecting communities through the shared spirit of cultural expression. The event was supported by Creative Ireland, the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaion, Airc Damhsa Culture Club, and the Leitrim Arts Office. Photographer Robert Stothard captured the nights magic, preserving the spirit of the celebration for all to cherish. The artists research highlights that while some of these traditions remain alive in Leitrim today, others exist only as memories preserved by older generations. Working with communities across the county, the artists are on a mission to revive these rich customs and explore modern applications for straw-based traditions, ensuring their relevance in contemporary times. For more information on the Sowing the Seed project and its efforts to preserve and promote cultural traditions, visit www.sowingtheseedproject.com. The town of Mohill came alive this New Years Day as the much-anticipated No Jazz Festival returned, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate music, culture, and community spirit. The annual event, which has become a cherished tradition in Leitrim, offered a lively blend of historical homage and festive fun. Kim Taylor, Secretary of the Historical Society and one of the festivals lead organizers, shared the inspiration behind the event: "This festival is really about revisiting a fascinating part of our historythe anti-jazz protests of the 1930sbut with a modern twist. Its a chance for us to embrace our traditions while also celebrating the joy that jazz music brings to people today." The festivals theme transported attendees back to the 1920s and 1930s. Participants embraced the era, wearing elegant vintage outfits that brought historical authenticity and charm to the streets of Mohill. "Seeing everyone dressed in period attire, from feathered hats to three-piece suits, really captures the spirit of the time," said Taylor. "Its like stepping back into history while keeping the energy of a modern festival alive." The event kicked off with a lively parade through the town, where banners and slogans echoed the themes of the original Down with Jazz movement. According to Taylor, this element was a direct nod to Father Peter Conefrey, the parish priest from Cloone who led the first anti-jazz protest in 1934: "Father Conefrey was a passionate man who was deeply rooted in Irish traditions. He saw jazz as a threat to those values, and he wasnt afraid to speak out. He even inspired over 3,000 people to march through Mohill that year, and we wanted to honour that moment in our history." After the parade, the festivities moved to Canon Donoghue Hall, where attendees enjoyed captivating performances by Ciaran Wilde & Friends Jazz Band and Tommy Keyes & Friends. The audience was particularly delighted by the debut of the humorous and historically inspired song, "Down with Jazz & Paganism Too." Taylor explained the significance of blending music with the festivals historical theme: "Jazz was at the heart of the debate in the 1930s, so its fitting that music plays a central role in our celebrations. Today, were showing that jazz is something to be embraced, not feared." The festival also paid tribute to Mohills culinary heritage. Traditional Irish boxty, provided by the renowned Gallaghers Boxty House, paired perfectly with tea, giving attendees a taste of Leitrims culture. Taylor noted the special connection to Father Conefrey, who is credited with inventing boxty: "Father Conefrey wasnt just a figure of the anti-jazz protestshe also gave us boxty, which has become a symbol of Leitrims identity. He believed in using what was available on the land, and his boxty recipe is still used today by Gallaghers Boxty House. Its a wonderful way to keep his legacy alive." Spot prizes and awards for the best costumes and banners added a playful touch to the day, encouraging creativity and community engagement. Taylor reflected on the growing popularity of the festival: "Its amazing to see how this event has grown over the years. People are coming from all overDublin, Tyrone, Cavan, and beyond. Its unusual for New Years Day, but its become something people look forward to. Its a testament to the community spirit here in Mohill." Taylor also emphasized the importance of local support: "We couldnt do this without our sponsors. Gallaghers Boxty House and Leitrim County Council have been so generous in helping us make this event possible. Its a true community effort." As the day drew to a close, Mohill once again proved its ability to honour its rich history while embracing the joy and creativity of a modern festival. The No Jazz Festival has firmly established itself as a unique and cherished celebration, blending the best of both worlds. "Were proud to celebrate our past while looking ahead to the future," said Taylor. "Its a story worth telling, and were so glad to share it with everyone who joins us." Asante Announces Director Changes 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 Company's 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 LLC's 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 Ghana's Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Company's 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. For additional information relating to the mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates for the Bibiani Gold Mine, please refer to the 2024 Bibiani Technical Report filed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca). About the Chirano Gold Mine Chirano is an operating open pit and underground mine located in the Western Region of Ghana, immediately south of the Company's Bibiani Gold Mine. Chirano was first explored and developed in 1996 and began production in October 2005. The mine comprises the Akwaaba, Suraw, Akoti South, Akoti North, Akoti Extended, Paboase, Tano, Obra South, Obra, Sariehu and Mamnao open pits and the Akwaaba and Paboase underground mines. For additional information relating to the mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates for the Chirano Gold Mine, please refer to the 2024 Chirano Technical Report filed on the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca). For further information please contact: Dave Anthony, President & CEO Frederick Attakumah, Executive Vice President and Country Director [email protected] +1 604 661 9400 or +233 303 972 147 Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the inability to satisfy any condition required to complete the balance of the Gold Forward Agreement, the inability to complete required funding initiatives, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Company's inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its planned activities, the Company's inability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and the price of gold. The reader is referred to the Company's public disclosure record which is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except as required by securities laws and the policies of the securities exchanges on which the Company is listed, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. LEI Number: 529900F9PV1G9S5YD446. Neither IIROC nor any stock exchange or other securities regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 6 january 2025 at 18:00 News published onand distributed by: BWXT Enters Agreement to Acquire Kinectrics, a Leading Service Provider to the Global Nuclear Market BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Kinectrics, Inc., for approximately US$525 million, including assumption of Kinectrics' net pension and debt liabilities, and estimated transaction expenses. Kinectrics is a leader in providing lifecycle management services for the global nuclear power and transmission and distribution markets, and in the production and supply of isotopes for the radiopharmaceutical industry. The acquisition is highly complementary to BWXT's Commercial Operations segment and will enable an expanded portfolio of products and services for current and new customers in the global nuclear power and radiopharmaceutical industries. In the commercial nuclear power market, Kinectrics brings a broad suite of lifecycle support services that will further strengthen BWXT's position in the CANDU reactor market, while increasing its exposure to the U.S. market and select international markets. In nuclear medicine, Kinectrics offers additional isotope irradiation and production technologies, and has played a critical role in the existing Lutetium-177 supply chain since 2022. Kinectrics employs over 1,300 engineers and technical experts located across its 20 sites worldwide. "This acquisition expands our ability to deliver end-to-end solutions to existing and new customers more efficiently," said John MacQuarrie, president of BWXT Commercial Operations. "The investment uniquely brings together two industry leaders with complementary expertise and service offerings in the growing commercial nuclear power and nuclear medicine markets. With the talented team joining from Kinectrics, we are strengthening our ability to meet our customers' evolving needs. This includes supporting utilities as they explore ways to expand nuclear power generation through life extensions and new builds, partnering with small modular reactor designers seeking comprehensive regulatory, engineering, manufacturing, and aftermarket solutions, and collaborating with healthcare partners who require reliable isotopes for under-supplied medical isotopes revolutionizing oncology." Kinectrics, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, is expected to generate revenue of approximately US$300 million in 2024 in two core business areas: commercial power services and nuclear medicine. Commercial power services provides support for all stages of the nuclear power plant lifecycle and other areas of the related grid ecosystem, including initial design and engineering, operational support and maintenance services, as well as transmission and distribution reliability services. Nuclear medicine includes isotope production services for the radiopharmaceutical industry, including Isogen, a joint venture between Kinectrics and Framatome. Upon close, the acquisition will nearly double the workforce of BWXT's Commercial Operations and expand its capabilities, including lifecycle management, specialized plant services and engineering, to support the North American and international nuclear markets. The acquisition is targeted to close in the middle of 2025 and is expected to be modestly accretive to BWXT's earnings, excluding purchase accounting and other one-time costs. Following the close, Kinectrics will operate as a BWXT subsidiary, and its financial results will be reported within BWXT's Commercial Operations segment. David Harris, President & CEO of Kinectrics, will continue to lead the organization and will report to John MacQuarrie, President of BWXT Commercial Operations. This investment is one of BWXT's strategic steps in response to current and anticipated demand for nuclear projects and services worldwide. Earlier this year, BWXT announced a US$60 million expansion at its facility in Cambridge, Ontario, to increase the plant's footprint by 25 percent and create more than 200 long-term jobs for skilled workers, engineers and support staff in the area. Conference Call BWXT will host a conference call on January 7, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. E.T. to discuss the acquisition. Listen-only participants are encouraged to participate and view the supporting presentation via the internet at www.bwxt.com/investors. The dial-in numbers for participants are (U.S.) 800-715-9871 and (International) 1-646-307-1963; conference ID: 5433335. A replay of the call will remain available on the BWXT website for a limited time. Forward-Looking Statements BWXT cautions that this release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to management's plans and expectations for the acquisition of Kinectrics, our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, future revenues and demand for Kinectrics' business, and Kinectrics' continuing operations. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, our ability to obtain any necessary regulatory and other approvals required for the acquisition, and competition in the market for the products and services sold by Kinectrics. If one or more of these risks or other risks materialize, actual results may vary materially from those expressed. For a more complete discussion of these and other risk factors, please see BWXT's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and subsequent reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. BWXT cautions not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release, and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, except to the extent required by applicable law. About BWXT At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With approximately 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. In addition, BWXT joint ventures provide management and operations at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. For more information, visit www.bwxt.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. 7 january 2025 at 06:05 News published onand distributed by: Regenx Receives Funding Support to Advance Proprietary Technology EDMONTON, Alberta, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Regenx Tech Corp. ("Regenx" or the "Company") (CSE: RGX) (OTCQB: RGXTF) is pleased to announce that it is receiving advisory services and funding of up to $50,000 from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) supporting a research and development project to continue the advancement of Regenx's proprietary technology that extracts precious metals from end-of-life catalytic converters. The research is being conducted by Regenx's scientific team based in the Vancouver, BC area. "We thank the NRC IRAP team, including their industrial technology advisor (ITA), for actively advising and giving valuable guidance through the whole process. We believe this support will benefit our company, our stakeholders and for the economy of Canada," stated Regenx's CEO, Don Weatherbee. About Regenx Tech Corp. Regenx Tech is a cleantech, urban mining company that recycles end-of-life diesel catalytic converters using its innovative and environmentally friendly proprietary technology for the recovery of precious metals, such as platinum and palladium. Learn more at www.regenx.tech . For further information contact: REGENX TECH CORP. ? [email protected] Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 7 january 2025 at 07:00 News published onand distributed by: Mercury Becomes First Major Insurance Company to Return to Paradise California as City's Rebuilding Efforts Gain Momentum Innovative City Planning and State Officials' Leadership Pave the Way for Mercury Insurance to Begin Offering Homeowners Coverage to Paradise Residents in the Wake of Catastrophic Wildfire PARADISE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY), a leading provider of property and casualty insurance, announced today that the company will begin writing new homeowners insurance policies in the town of Paradise, CA. Mercury is the first major insurance company to begin offering policies to Paradise homeowners since the town was engulfed by the "Camp Fire" in November 2018. The move was made possible by California Department of Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara's commitment to implement his Sustainable Insurance Strategy, which is designed to provide California consumers with a wider array of home insurance options. The efforts of Paradise city officials and residents also played a pivotal role in Mercury's decision to reenter the market, as they've demonstrated a commitment to reducing wildfire risk through forward-thinking urban planning and mitigation strategies. "Mercury's return to offering homeowners coverage in Paradise, California is the result of hard work by the City and its residents, the State and numerous individuals and organizations who have reimagined how a town can grow and thrive in an area prone to wildfires," said Victor Joseph, President and Chief Operating Officer of Mercury Insurance. "Our team has taken numerous trips to the city to see the transformation firsthand, and what we've seen makes us confident that Paradise can serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges." The rebuilding process began as soon as it was safe to return to the area. City officials, emergency services, private residents, grassroots organizations like the Rebuild Paradise Foundation, and numerous other entities have led the charge on the rebuild, making Paradise the fastest growing city in California, according to the California Department of Finance. "Rebuilding the town's infrastructure while generating momentum for our neighbors and businesses to return to Paradise has been our overarching goal," said newly elected Mayor Steve Crowder. "We see Mercury's return to providing coverage in Paradise as a crucial step in our rebuild strategy and a demonstration that we have been successful in redefining how cities can be built to lower wildfire risk." Paradise worked closely with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to strengthen the town's resilience. The town updated its building ordinance in July 2022 to require all new homes be built to IBHS's Wildfire Prepared Home standard. Wildfire Prepared is based on years of wildfire research and the program is designed to significantly reduce a structure's risk of ember ignition. Requirements include a Class A roof, an exterior that features ember-resistant vents with lower six inches of vertical space, and a noncombustible Zone 0, the five-foot buffer around a house. The result is a community positioned to deal with future fire events like never before. "The Town of Paradise has been thoughtful in its approach and is working hard to rebuild the community in a way that will not only provide better protection, but also make it more insurable," said Roy Wright, IBHS President and CEO. "Wildfire has a role in nature. Yet, the goal we aim to achieve is to keep it from entering our neighborhoods and consuming homes. And that's where Paradise is leading the way in community resiliency, using our research to build back stronger. That is more appealing for insurance companies like Mercury." "Being part of the rebuilding process has been important to us," says Paradise resident, Gary Ledbetter. "Paradise leadership has demonstrated remarkable foresight, and the community is fully committed to rebuilding in a way that greatly enhances the town's resiliency. As a result, we now are getting access to more affordable home insurance options other than the FAIR plan." Mercury Insurance is confident the company's return to Paradise will pave the way for other insurance providers to follow suit. "It's vital the insurance industry supports the efforts of communities and homeowners to build greater resilience against wildfires," said Joseph. "We are working with a number of communities in higher risk areas to build on what we're doing in Paradise, and we anticipate Mercury will continue to grow our customer base in these areas. This is the direct result of not only the Commissioner's Sustainable Insurance Strategy, but also the leadership and dedication of Governor Gavin Newsom, who has significantly grown and improved the state's ability to manage and fight wildfires. "If communities take proactive steps to better protect their community and homes, we believe the insurance industry should acknowledge these efforts by doing our part to provide coverage at an affordable price. We're proud that Mercury is the first major insurance company to come back to Paradise, because this town has done their part and now it's our turn to do ours." Mercury Insurance has remained committed to the State and has consistently worked to support its fellow Californians. In 2024, Mercury spearheaded an effort to maintain insurance availability for thousands of consumers who otherwise would have lost their coverage when Tokio-Marine America made the difficult decision to withdraw from its personal line business in California. Mercury also announced last year that it has partnered with the UCLA Anderson Forecast to study the impact climate change is having on the company and its customers in California. This research will shed light on how Mercury and others can collaborate with various stakeholders to provide innovative insurance products and services specific to catastrophic weather risks, including wildfires. About Mercury Insurance Headquartered in Los Angeles, Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is a multiple-line insurance carrier offering personal auto, homeowners, and renters insurance directly to consumers and through a network of independent agents in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia, as well as auto insurance in Florida. Mercury also writes business owners, business auto, landlord, commercial multi-peril and mechanical protection insurance in various states. Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value for their insurance dollar by pairing ultra-competitive rates with excellent customer service, through nearly 4,100?employees and a network of more than 6,500 independent agents in 11 states. Mercury has earned "A" ratings from A.M. Best and Fitch, as well as "Best Auto Insurance Company" designations from Forbes and Insure.com. For more information visit www.MercuryInsurance.com or follow the company on Twitter or Facebook. SOURCE Mercury General Corporation 7 january 2025 at 12:00 News published onand distributed by: Revolutionizing Detection: Kyocera Unveils the World's First Camera-LIDAR Fusion Sensor with Perfect Optical Alignment Kyocera Corporation (President: Hideo Tanimoto; "Kyocera") today announced the development of its unique Camera-LIDAR Fusion Sensor, the world's first1 LIDAR that aligns the optical axes of the camera and LIDAR into a single sensor. This unique design allows for the real-time acquisition of parallax-free superimposed data, a feat that was previously unattainable. It also features the world's highest2 laser irradiation density as a LIDAR sensor, enabling long-distance and high-precision object detection. LIDAR is expected to be essential to the commercialization of autonomous driving. It provides instant acquisition of long-range, highly accurate 3D information, enabling the detection of obstacles in complex environments and during high-speed movement with unparalleled accuracy. It offers excellent spatial recognition, identifying the distance to an object and its size from the time and angle of the reflected light bouncing back from a laser beam over a wide area. Typically, LIDAR is used with cameras to more accurately identify objects but parallax in the data from the separate units often caused delays from calibration between the sensors. Kyocera's new Camera-LIDAR Fusion Sensor integrates the camera and high-resolution LIDAR in a single unit for parallax-free, real-time data integration, ensuring efficient and accurate results. Key Features Camera and LIDAR integration for most accurate object recognition Using its unique optical design technology, Kyocera is the first to integrate the camera and LIDAR into a single unit with aligned optical axes. This enables the real-time integration of camera image data and LIDAR distance data for the most advanced object recognition to date. High Resolution with World's Highest2 Laser Irradiation Density LIDAR can recognize small obstacles over long distances by increasing the density of laser beams emitted, thereby improving resolution and accuracy. Kyocera's innovative sensor has an irradiation density of 0.045 degrees, which utilizes the Company's proprietary laser scan unit technology from MFPs and printers, making it possible to detect a 30cm falling object at a distance of 100m. High Durability with Proprietary MEMS Mirror In LIDAR, a MEMS mirror or motor is required to irradiate laser light over a wide and high-density area. However, MEMS mirrors typically have lower resolution and motors tend to wear out quickly. Kyocera's new integrated sensor provides both higher resolution than motor-based systems and greater durability than conventional MEMS mirrors. A proprietary MEMS mirror, developed with Kyocera's advanced manufacturing and ceramic package technologies, and high-resolution laser scanning technology, support high-precision sensing for various industries including autonomous vehicles, marine/ships, heavy machinery, and more. Customization Options Kyocera can customize solutions for specific applications to optimize performance and features necessary for a wide range of use cases. Each element is developed and manufactured by Kyocera for total control and customization, from MEMS mirrors to optical systems, electrical circuits, and software. Kyocera aims to introduce this innovative integrated sensor for automotive applications and various other fields, such as construction machinery, ships, robots, and security systems that recognize people and objects. We are working towards the early commercialization of this device. CES2025 Outlook This technology will be exhibited at one of the world's largest technology trade shows, CES 2025, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, from Tuesday, January 7 to Friday, January 10, 2025. The Company's latest innovations in Aerial Display technology, Underwater Wireless Optical Communications, Millimeter-Wave Sensing, Camera-LIDAR Fusion Sensors, Bifocal Mirrors, and more solutions to further safe, autonomous driving will be showcased at the booth. Date January 7th to January 10th, 2025 Venue Las Vegas Convention Center Booth location Vehicle Tech & Advanced Mobility Zone, West Hall. Booth number #4816 For more details, please click here https://global.kyocera.com/ces/2025/index.html 1 In the development of a sensor in which the optical axes of the camera and LIDAR are aligned and integrated into a single unit; October 2024, based on Kyocera research. 2 At the irradiation densities of LIDAR currently announced for commercialization, October 2024, based on Kyocera research. 7 january 2025 at 12:05 News published onand distributed by: Express Delivery Market in Europe to Grow by USD 18.91 Billion (2025-2029), Driven by E-Commerce Growth and AI-Powered Market Evolution - Technavio NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is driving market transformation - The express delivery market in europe size is estimated to grow by USD 18.91 billion from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 5.4% during the forecast period. Growth of e-commerce industry in Europe is driving market growth, with a trend towards consolidation in express delivery market in Europe. However, competitive pricing pressure poses a challenge. Key market players include AfterShip Group, Aramex International LLC, BTA International, Burns Express Freight Ltd., CMA CGM SA Group, DB Schenker, Deutsche Post AG, DHL Express Ltd., DPD Deutschland GmbH, DPEX Worldwide, FedEx Corp., International Distributions Services plc, La Poste SA, Manston Express Transport, Montad Ltd t a Cargo Express, Otto GmbH and Co. KG, POSTE ITALIANE SPA, PostNL N.V., Simpex, and United Parcel Service Inc.. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Express Delivery Market In Europe Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2024 Historic period - Forecast period 2025-2029 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 5.4% Market growth 2025-2029 USD 18.91 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 4.8 Regional analysis Europe Performing market contribution Europe at 100% Key countries Germany, France, UK, Spain, and Rest of Europe Key companies profiled AfterShip Group, Aramex International LLC, BTA International, Burns Express Freight Ltd., CMA CGM SA Group, DB Schenker, Deutsche Post AG, DHL Express Ltd., DPD Deutschland GmbH, DPEX Worldwide, FedEx Corp., International Distributions Services plc, La Poste SA, Manston Express Transport, Montad Ltd t a Cargo Express, Otto GmbH and Co. KG, POSTE ITALIANE SPA, PostNL N.V., Simpex, and United Parcel Service Inc. Market Driver Express delivery vendors in Europe are expanding their businesses through mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to boost their market presence and broaden their service offerings. M&A activities enable firms to achieve economies of scale, establish a global footprint, and open new growth opportunities. In July 2023, DHL acquired Turkish parcel delivery company MNG Kargo, expanding its reach in the rapidly growing Turkish market and enhancing its logistics solutions for both domestic and international customers. Similarly, DPD UK, part of Europe's largest parcel delivery network, acquired CitySprint in January 2022, merging same-day delivery expertise with DPD UK's domestic next-day services and international capabilities. These strategic acquisitions strengthen the express delivery market in Europe, providing enhanced services to customers and boosting growth. The Express Delivery Market in Europe is thriving, with a focus on enhancing customer experience in both domestic and international operations. In healthcare, express delivery of medicines and hospital supplies is crucial, ensuring timely access. Domestic ecommerce and cross-border trade continue to drive demand for fast parcel delivery. Construction and primary industries also rely on express services for valuable supplies. Value-added services, such as sorting and grading, packaging, picking, and order processing, are essential for efficient management. Modern logistics supply chains utilize management information systems, mobile tracking applications, and hub-to-spoke collection centers. Regular mail and parcel delivery services cater to various industries, including F&B, IT, telecom, electronics, consumer goods, and retail/e-commerce. Same-day delivery and B2B/B2C services are increasingly popular, particularly for perishable items and medication. Email alerts and SMS notifications keep customers engaged. The interconnectedness of international trade and express delivery continues to expand, fueling growth in international parcels. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges ? The express delivery market in Europe is characterized by intense competition and price sensitivity due to the presence of major players like DHL, UPS, and FedEx. These companies have shifted from weight-based to dimension-based pricing to mitigate the impact of fluctuating fuel costs. However, this pricing strategy may lead to decreased quality of services for B2C e-commerce businesses shipping light packages in large volumes. Consequently, the market may experience downward pressure on prices and potential market share shifts among the leading players. Despite these challenges, the market's growth remains dependent on delivering high-quality, fast, and reliable services to maintain customer satisfaction. ? The European express delivery market faces several challenges in providing efficient and seamless services. For customer experience, express delivery operations must cater to various sectors like healthcare, domestic and international parcel delivery for hospitals supplies, medicines, and construction materials. Customer relationship engagement is crucial in domestic ecommerce, cross-border ecommerce, and B2B and B2C sectors. Value-added services, sorting and grading, packaging, picking, and order processing are essential in managing interconnectedness in international trade and logistics supply chain. Technology plays a significant role, with management information systems, mobile tracking applications, email alerts, and SMS notifications enhancing customer experience. Perishable items, medication, and medical supplies require same-day delivery, making it essential for express delivery services to collaborate with healthcare systems and hospitals. The F&D industry, IT and telecom, electronics, consumer goods, and e-commerce sectors also rely on efficient and reliable express delivery services. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This express delivery market in Europe report extensively covers market segmentation by Application 1.1 Domestic 1.2 International Type 2.1 B2B 2.2 B2C 2.3 C2C Geography 3.1 Europe 1.1 Domestic- The European express delivery market's domestic segment focuses on the swift and efficient transportation of parcels and packages within a country or between neighboring European countries. This segment plays a vital role in meeting the increasing e-commerce demand by ensuring timely delivery of goods and supporting various businesses. The e-commerce industry's growth in Europe drives the domestic segment, as more consumers shop online and expect quick delivery. Express domestic delivery services are crucial for customer satisfaction, trust in e-commerce, and same-day and next-day delivery options. Retailers, particularly in fast fashion and perishable goods sectors, rely on these services. Online marketplaces and platforms, including Amazon and regional players, depend on domestic express delivery for efficient supply chains and order fulfillment. Businesses across industries seek cost-efficient and operationally efficient supply chains, partnering with domestic express delivery providers for timely shipments. Geopost (DPDgroup) and the Royal Mail are major European express delivery providers, offering next-day and same-day delivery options. DHL, a global logistics and express delivery company, extensively operates within Europe's domestic delivery services market, catering to various industries. The domestic segment thrives due to e-commerce expansion, high customer expectations, same-day and next-day delivery demands, diverse marketplaces, and efficient supply chains. Express delivery providers continually adapt and expand services to meet businesses and consumers' evolving needs, fueling the domestic segment's growth in Europe. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis The Express Delivery Market in Europe is a significant and growing sector, driven by the rise of online shopping and the increasing demand for fast and reliable delivery services. This market caters to various segments, including regular mail and parcel delivery for both consumer goods and business-to-business (B2B) transactions. Perishable items, medication, and medical supplies are a crucial part of this market, particularly in the healthcare system, where same-day delivery is essential. The F&B industry also relies on express delivery for the timely transportation of food items. Domestic and international markets, as well as cross-border e-commerce, are key areas of focus. Express delivery operations have become an integral part of the consumer experience, with customer relationship engagement being a critical factor in ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty. The construction and primary industries also utilize express delivery services for the timely delivery of essential supplies. Market Research Overview Express delivery in Europe is a dynamic and growing market, encompassing regular mail and parcel delivery services for various industries. The Fand D industry, including perishable items, medication, and medical supplies, relies heavily on express delivery for timely and secure transportation. Same-day delivery is increasingly popular for online shopping, particularly in B2C and retail and e-commerce sectors, as well as for B2B transactions in IT and Telecom, electronics, consumer goods, and construction. The interconnectedness of international trade and domestic ecommerce has led in cross-border parcel delivery, requiring advanced logistics supply chains, management information systems, and value-added services such as sorting and grading, packaging, picking, and order processing. Express delivery operations are essential for the healthcare system, ensuring the timely delivery of medicines and hospital supplies, both domestically and internationally. Mobile tracking applications, email alerts, and SMS notifications enhance the customer experience, making express delivery a vital component of modern business and commerce. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Application Domestic International Type B2B B2C C2C Geography Europe 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio 7 january 2025 at 14:38 News published onand distributed by: Brixton Metals Provides Results from Ivanhoe Electric's 2024 Drilling at the Hog Heaven Project, Montana, USA VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brixton Metals Corporation (TSX-V: BBB, OTCQB: BBBXF) (the "Company" or "Brixton") is pleased to announce exploration results provided by operator Ivanhoe Electric Inc. ("Ivanhoe Electric") (NYSE American: IE; TSX: IE), on the Hog Heaven Project. The road-accessible project is located in Flathead County, 50 miles southwest of the town of Kalispell, northwestern Montana, USA. Highlights below are sourced and further defined by Ivanhoe Electric's press release dated January 6, 2025. Highlights Exploration drilling at the Hog Heaven Project in Montana included approximately 14,000 meters in eleven drill holes (Figure 1). Exploration drilling in the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project intersected a porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum system within a large, deep Typhoontm-identified anomaly. Exploration drilling in the Flathead Mine area included drill holes HHD-012 through to HHD-016, which intersected broad intervals of epithermal-type low-grade precious metals-bearing polymetallic sulphide mineralization hosted in veins, breccia matrix fill, and disseminations. Ivanhoe Electric has leased a further 4,925 acres of private surface and mineral rights from a private owner, consolidating the district and providing additional access to areas prospective for porphyry systems. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Gary R. Thompson, stated, "Drilling at the Hog Heaven Project continues to deliver highly encouraging copper-gold results. The multiple phases of porphyry at the Battle Butte Area are typical in these types of mineralizing systems and key next steps would be to isolate the high-grade copper-gold porphyry phase." Initial drilling at the Battle Butte Area, HHD-017 through to HHD-022, has intersected a porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum system ("Battle Butte Porphyry") associated with a large, 1,500 meters by 1,000 meters Typhoontm conductivity anomaly at 1,200 meters depth (Figure 2). Mineralization is related to a series of variably mineralized and altered porphyry intrusives and hydrothermal breccias hosting gold-bearing copper, iron, and molybdenum sulphides as breccia matrix, sheeted to stockwork veining and as disseminations. Hole HHD-018: returned 286.0m of 0.14% copper, 0.14 g/t gold, 0.01% molybdenum, and 1.70 g/t of silver from 947.0m depth. Including 97.9m of 0.21% copper, 0.20 g/t gold, 0.01% molybdenum and 2.79 g/t silver from 947.0m. Hole HHD-019 returned 680.0m of 0.09% copper, 0.06 g/t gold, 0.02% molybdenum, and 0.96 g/t silver from 1,172.0m depth. Five drill holes intersecting the Battle Butte Porphyry demonstrate a porphyry system believed to be starting at approximately 900 meters depth, with a vertical thickness of 800 meters, at least 600 meters by 400 meters in lateral dimension, and open to the east and northeast. Initial assay results show broad intervals of low-grade mineralization with a gold-to-copper ratio near one-to-one. Narrower but higher-grade sub-intervals are associated with the presence of the higher-grade copper sulphide mineral bornite (approximately 63% copper by weight), where the gold-to-copper ratio starts to increase. Current evidence suggests that the Battle Butte Porphyry system is open to the east and north, where the Typhoontm anomaly remains untested at depth. Exploration in 2025 will continue to test the Battle Butte Porphyry, searching for higher-grade copper-gold zones and the presence of additional porphyry centers across the project. Figure 1. Plan view map of the Hog Heaven Project showing drill holes and their traces from the 2024 exploration program, newly leased land, and the location of cross-section A to A'. Figure 2. Cross-section A to A' at the Hog Heaven Project, looking northeast, of drilling at the Battle Butte Porphyry, showing Typhoontm conductivity (left), drill holes, assay results, and simplified geology and alteration (right). Table 1. Highlighted new epithermal-type drill intercepts from the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project. Drill Hole Location From (m) To (m) Interval (m) CuEq % Ag g/t Au g/t Cu % Pb % Zn % HHD-017 Battle Butte Porphyry 755.49 765.00 9.51 2.17 127.43 0.12 0.45 0.84 1.11 The following long-term metal prices were used: $3.80/lb Cu, $1,707/oz Au, $22.42/oz Ag, $0.93/lb Pb, and $1.19/lb Zn. The specific formula used to report CuEq (%) is Cu% + ((0.655) * Au(g/t)) + ((0.009) * Ag(g/t)) + (0.245) * Pb (%)) + ((0.313) * Zn (%)). Flat recoveries of 100% were used for metal equivalency calculations. Intervals were derived on a CuEq basis with a cutoff of 0.1% CuEq. Maximum internal dilution of 5 meters was applied. Copper assays were capped at 10% for interval calculations. These are not true widths. Table 2. Highlighted new porphyry-type drill intercepts from the Battle Butte Area at the Hog Heaven Project. Drill Hole Location From (m) To (m) Interval (m) CuEq (%) Cu (%) Au (g/t) Mo (%) Ag (g/t) HHD-018 Battle Butte Porphyry 947.00 1233.00 286.00 0.29 0.14 0.14 0.01 1.70 Including 947.00 1044.85 97.85 0.40 0.21 0.20 0.01 2.79 HHD-019 Battle Butte Porphyry 1172.00 1852.00 680.00 0.20 0.09 0.06 0.02 0.96 The following long-term metal prices were used: $3.80/lb Cu, $1,707/oz Au, $22.42/oz Ag, and $16.00/lb Mo. The specific formula used to report CuEq (%) is Cu % + ((0.655) * Au(g/t)) + ((0.009) * Ag(g/t)) + ((4.211) * Mo (%)). Flat recoveries of 100% were used for metal equivalency calculations. Intervals were derived on a CuEq basis with a cutoff of 0.10% CuEq. Maximum internal dilution of 5 meters was applied for drill holes HHD-018 and HHD-019. Copper assays were capped at 10% for interval calculations. These are not true widths. Quality Assurance and Quality control Ivanhoe Electric employs industry standard QA/QC and data verification protocols. The diamond drill holes were completed using PQ and HQ diameters. The drill core was cut lengthwise into halves using a diamond-bladed saw, with one-half used for the assay sample and the other half retained in core boxes and archived at site. Pulps and rejects are also stored on site for archival purposes. Mineralized zones were generally sampled at 2m intervals. Each core sample was placed into a bag with a unique numbered sample identification tag. Quality control samples were inserted between core samples using the same numbering sequence. Then samples were grouped into batches for shipping and laboratory submissions. Chain of custody records are maintained for sample shipments and the custody is transferred from Ivanhoe Electric expeditor to the laboratory upon delivery. Samples were shipped to ALS Laboratories in Twin Falls, Idaho, for sample preparation and analysis. Samples were analyzed using customary four acid digestion and ICP-MS finish. A standard gold fire assay package was used to analyze gold. Silver content was assessed using either HCl leach and ICP-AES finish or fire assay with gravimetric finish depending on silver concentrations. ALS Minerals Twin Falls is an independent laboratory certified under ISO 9001:2008 and accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2005 by the Standards Council of Canada. The Hog Heaven copper-silver-gold project is an advanced-stage exploration project, which historically produced high-grade silver, gold, and copper. Between 1913 and 1975, Anaconda Copper Mining and lessees produced 6.7Moz Ag, 3,000 oz Au, 23M lbs of lead, and 0.6M lbs copper from 0.23Mt of direct-ship ore, grading 29 opt silver. The road-accessible property is located in Flathead County, 50 miles southwest of the town of Kalispell, northwestern Montana, USA. Ivanhoe Electric and Brixton entered into an earn-in agreement in 2021. Under the earn-in agreement, Ivanhoe Electric may earn up to a 75% interest in the Hog Heaven Project by making cash payments totaling USD$4.5 million ($2.5 million paid to date) and incurring an aggregate of USD$40 million in exploration expenditures by 2032. For additional Hog Heaven Projects details, click here: https://brixtonmetals.com/hog-heaven/ Table 3. Hog Heaven Project Drill Collar information. DRILL HOLE STATUS DEPTH (m) AZIMUTH () DIP () EASTING NORTHING ELEVATION (m) HHD-001 COMPLETE 580.34 275 -50 678352 5309703 1200 HHD-002 COMPLETE 1001.50 270 70 678317 5309025 1151 HHD-003 COMPLETE 1248.76 65 -85 679760 5309704 1067 HHD-004 COMPLETE 1316.13 305 -55 680093 5308712 1027 HHD-005 COMPLETE 1248.76 185 -80 680725 5310624 1250 HHD-006 COMPLETE 773.58 340 -61 680748 5310254 1210 HHD-007 COMPLETE 824.79 210 -75 680727 5310624 1255 HHD-008 COMPLETE 735.18 0 -60 680752 5310259 1226 HHD-009 COMPLETE 785.47 100 -77 680533 5310551 1206 HHD-010 COMPLETE 1212.49 120 -70 680364 5310565 1214 HHD-011 COMPLETE 633.37 70 -65 680360 5310574 1213 HHD-012 COMPLETE 544.37 285 -75 680458 5310455 1181 HHD-013 COMPLETE 1157.63 240 -70 679768 5310382 1111 HHD-014 COMPLETE 864.72 220 -60 680273 5310468 1192 HHD-015 COMPLETE 594.06 250 -60 680273 5310468 1192 HHD-016 COMPLETE 1343.80 305 -80 680372 5310370 1169 HHD-017 COMPLETE 1394.60 310 -75 679466 5309311 1077 HHD-018 COMPLETE 1488.89 30 -85 679466 5309311 1077 HHD-019 COMPLETE 1852.54 215 -85 679564 5309388 1058 HHD-020 COMPLETE 1571.95 290 -74 679775 5309496 1078 HHD-021 COMPLETE 1441.09 220 -77 679704 5309273 1079 HHD-022 RESULTS PENDING 1753.70 32 -75 679489 5309066 1056 Qualified Person Disclosures of a scientific or technical nature included in this news release, including the sampling, analytical and technical data underlying the information, have been reviewed, verified, and approved by Shawn Vandekerkhove, P.Geo. of whom is a Qualified Person as defined by Regulation S-K, Subpart 1300 promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and by Canadian National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Vandekerkhove is an employee of Ivanhoe Electric Inc. Corporate Update Effective January 6, 2025, Christina Anstey has ceased to act as the Company's VP Exploration. We wish to thank Christina for her service to the Company and wish her all the best in her future endeavors. About Brixton Metals Corporation Brixton Metals is a Canadian exploration company focused on the advancement of its mining projects. Brixton wholly owns four exploration projects: Brixton's flagship Thorn copper-gold-silver-molybdenum Project, the Hog Heaven copper-silver-gold Project in NW Montana, USA, which is optioned to Ivanhoe Electric Inc., the Langis-HudBay silver-cobalt-nickel Project in Ontario and the Atlin Goldfields Project located in northwest BC which is optioned to Eldorado Gold Corporation. Brixton Metals Corporation shares trade on the TSX-V under the ticker symbol BBB, and on the OTCQB under the ticker symbol BBBXF. For more information about Brixton, please visit our website at www.brixtonmetals.com . On Behalf of the Board of Directors Mr. Gary R. Thompson, Chairman and CEO For Investor Relations inquiries please contact: Mr. Michael Rapsch, Senior Manager, Investor Relations. email: [email protected] or call: 604-630-9707 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. Information set forth in this news release may involve forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", and "intend", statements that an action or event "may", "might", "could", "should", or "will" be taken or occur, including statements that address potential quantity and/or grade of minerals, potential size and expansion of a mineralized zone, proposed timing of exploration and development plans, or other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mineral exploration; fluctuations in commodity prices; title matters; and the additional risks identified in the annual information form of the Company or other reports and filings with the TSXV and applicable Canadian securities regulators. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://brixtonmetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Figure-1_7Jan2025-scaled.jpg https://brixtonmetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Figure-2_7Jan2025.png 7 january 2025 at 16:00 News published onand distributed by: Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP Announces $231 Million Midland Basin Acquisition in Cash and Unit Transaction(1) Oil and natural gas royalty interests located under the prolific Mabee Ranch in the Core of the Midland Basin on over 68,000 gross acres HIGHLIGHTS Expected to be immediately accretive to distributable cash flow per unit, with estimated acceleration of accretion over the next 5 years Targeted oil and natural gas mineral and royalty interests located under the prolific Mabee Ranch in the core of the Midland Basin, with approximately 875 gross producing wells on over 68,000 gross acres in the core of the Midland Basin, with approximately 875 gross producing wells on over 68,000 gross acres World-class E&P operators, including ConocoPhillips, Diamondback Energy and ExxonMobil Anticipated 2025 average production of approximately 1,842 Boe per day (60% oil, 17% natural gas, 23% NGL), generating an estimated $30.9 million of cash flow at strip pricing as of January 3, 2025 (reflects transaction multiple of approximately 7.5x) 2 of cash flow at strip pricing as of (reflects transaction multiple of approximately 7.5x) Expected to increase daily production by approximately 8% and expected to decrease cash G&A per Boe by approximately 7% 3 Expected to add 1.22 net DUCs and net permitted locations ("net wells"), an approximate 16% increase in Kimbell's current major net well line of site inventory Following the transaction, Kimbell expects net wells needed to maintain flat production to modestly increase from 5.8 net wells to 6.5 net wells In addition to net wells, the Seller portfolio is expected to add an estimated 6.06 net upside locations, increasing Kimbell's major net undrilled Permian inventory by approximately 19% Builds upon existing Permian Basin position, which remains Kimbell's leading basin in terms of production, active rig count, DUCs, permits and undrilled inventory Maintains conservative balance sheet metrics with expected pro forma net leverage of approximately 1.0x following transaction close4 FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP (NYSE: KRP) ("Kimbell" or the "Company"), a leading owner of oil and gas mineral and royalty interests in approximately 17 million gross acres in 28 states, today announced that it has agreed to acquire mineral and royalty interests (the "acquired assets") held by a private seller ("Seller") in a cash and unit transaction valued at approximately $231 million, subject to purchase price adjustments and other customary closing adjustments (the "Acquisition"). Under the purchase agreement, Kimbell has the option to pay the consideration entirely in cash or through a combination of $207 million in cash (approximately 90% of the total consideration) and approximately 1.4 million common units of Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP, which are valued at $24 million (approximately 10% of the total consideration). The final mix of funding will be determined at closing. Kimbell estimates that, as of October 1, 2024, the acquired assets produce approximately 1,842 Boe/d (1,125 Bbl/d of oil, 410 Bbl/d of NGLs, and 1,842 Mcf/d of natural gas) (6:1).5 For the full year 2025, Kimbell estimates that the acquired assets will produce approximately 1,842 Boe/d (1,104 Bbl/d of oil, 424 Bbl/d of NGLs, and 1,881 Mcf/d of natural gas) (6:1). The acquired acreage is located under the historic Mabee Ranch in the Midland Basin, with oil and gas minerals and royalty interests concentrated in Martin County (63%) and Andrews County (37%). The Board of Directors of Kimbell's general partner and the governing body of Seller have each approved the Acquisition, which is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The effective date of the Acquisition is expected to be October 1, 2024. Bob Ravnaas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Kimbell's general partner, said, "the acquired assets are located on one of the largest family-owned tracts in the heart of the Midland Basin, and enhance Kimbell's Permian footprint with excellent reservoir quality, near-term cash flow and long-term production growth. Headlined by PDP production from approximately 875 gross producing wells, excellent rig activity and line of sight wells, premier E&P operators, and substantial undeveloped drilling inventory, the Acquisition is expected to be immediately accretive to distributable cash flow per unit, with accelerated accretion anticipated in future years. Thanks to the Kimbell team, and our advisors, for working diligently to consummate this mutually beneficial transaction." Asset Highlights: Acquisition offers Kimbell unitholders world-class exposure to the Midland Basin Oil and gas mineral and royalty interests located under the prolific Mabee Ranch , with approximately 869 Net Royalty Acres 6 spanning 68,049 gross acres High interest position with 1.2% average DSU Net Revenue Interest Management estimates 11.5 MMBoe in total proved reserves, reflecting a purchase price of approximately $20.13 per total proved Boe Expected to strengthen Kimbell's liquids weighting from 48% of daily production mix as of Q3 2024 to 51% of combined daily production mix Following the transaction, Kimbell expects to maintain peer-leading five-year PDP decline rate of approximately 14% , with approximately 869 Net Royalty Acres spanning 68,049 gross acres Clear line of sight on development and production growth in future years supported by 76 gross / 0.95 net DUCs, 21 gross / 0.27 net permitted locations, and compelling undrilled inventory Expected to increase Kimbell's total net DUC / net permitted location inventory by 16% to 9.06 net wells Expected to increase Kimbell's Permian Basin net DUC / net permitted location inventory by 28% to 5.55 net wells Estimated 513 gross / 6.06 net upside locations expected to increase Kimbell's total major net drilling inventory by 8%, and to increase Kimbell's major net drilling inventory in the Permian Basin by 19% Attractive growth profile in future years supported by superior rock quality and robust oil in place, consistent rig activity and premier E&P operators 875 gross producing wells operated by Tier 1 E&P operators including ConocoPhillips, Diamondback and ExxonMobil ConocoPhillips has continuous drilling clause ensuring development Top tier Midland Basin rock quality with stacked pay development in up to six economic reservoirs spanning from Middle Spraberry to Barnett 2 rigs actively drilling on Seller acreage as of September 30, 2024 Kimbell Continues Its Role as a Leading Consolidator in the U.S. Oil and Gas Royalty Sector Assuming the Acquisition is consummated as described in this news release, Kimbell is expected to have over 17 million gross acres, over 130,000 gross wells and a total of 92 active rigs on its properties, which represents approximately 16%7 of the total active land rigs drilling in the continental United States. In addition, over 97% of all rigs in the continental United States are located in counties where Kimbell is expected to hold mineral interest positions following the consummation of the Acquisition. Advisors Citigroup served as exclusive financial advisor and White & Case LLP acted as legal counsel to Kimbell. TPH&Co., the energy business of Perella Weinberg Partners, served as exclusive financial advisor and MLT Aikins LLP and Vinson & Elkins LP served as legal advisor to Seller. About Kimbell Royalty Partners Kimbell (NYSE: KRP) is a leading oil and gas mineral and royalty company based in Fort Worth, Texas. Kimbell owns mineral and royalty interests in approximately 17 million gross acres in 28 states and in every major onshore basin in the continental United States, including ownership in more than 129,000 gross wells with over 50,000 wells in the Permian Basin. To learn more, visit http://www.kimbellrp.com. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which include statements regarding the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition, the expected timing of the closing of the Acquisition, and reserves, production and other operational data with respect to the Acquisition, involve risks and uncertainties, including risks that the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition are not realized; risks relating to Kimbell's integration of the Acquisition assets; risks relating to the possibility that the Acquisition does not close when expected or at all because any conditions to the closing are not satisfied on a timely basis or at all; and risks relating to Kimbell's business and prospects for growth and acquisitions. Except as required by law, Kimbell undertakes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after this news release. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in Kimbell's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). These include risks inherent in oil and natural gas drilling and production activities, including risks with respect to low or declining prices for oil and natural gas that could result in downward revisions to the value of proved reserves or otherwise cause operators to delay or suspend planned drilling and completion operations or reduce production levels, which would adversely impact cash flow; risks relating to the impairment of oil and natural gas properties; risks relating to the availability of capital to fund drilling operations that can be adversely affected by adverse drilling results, production declines and declines in oil and natural gas prices; risks relating to Kimbell's ability to meet financial covenants under its credit agreement or its ability to obtain amendments or waivers to effect such compliance; risks relating to Kimbell's hedging activities; risks of fire, explosion, blowouts, pipe failure, casing collapse, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, environmental hazards, and other operating and production risks, which may temporarily or permanently reduce production or cause initial production or test results to not be indicative of future well performance or delay the timing of sales or completion of drilling operations; risks relating to delays in receipt of drilling permits; risks relating to unexpected adverse developments in the status of properties; risks relating to borrowing base redeterminations by Kimbell's lenders; risks relating to the absence or delay in receipt of government approvals or third-party consents; risks relating to acquisitions, dispositions and drop downs of assets; risks relating to Kimbell's ability to realize the anticipated benefits from and to integrate acquired assets, including the assets acquired in the Acquisition; and other risks described in Kimbell's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, available at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Contact: Rick Black Dennard Lascar Investor Relations [email protected] (713) 529-6600 1 Purchase price and related valuation metrics reflect Kimbell's $16.45 per unit closing price as of 1/03/2025. 2 Illustrative cash flow multiple based on expected Q1'25 through Q4'25 production and average realized cash margin of $45.90 per Boe. Net realized crude oil, natural gas and NGL prices to calculate cash margin $71.18, $1.83 and $20.63, respectively. 3 Based on Q4 2024 run-rate daily production of Seller of 1,842 Boe/d (6:1), Kimbell's Q3 2024 run-rate average daily production of 23,846 Boe/d (6:1), and Kimbell's Q3 2024 cash G&A of $2.57 per Boe. 4 Net leverage defined as net debt / TTM consolidated Adjusted EBITDA. 5 Shown on 6:1 basis. Based on estimated Q4 2024 run-rate average daily production for the acquired assets as of October 1, 2024, the effective date of the transaction. 6 6,953 Net Royalty Acres normalized to 1/8th. 7 Based on Kimbell rig count of 90 and Seller rig count of 2 as of 9/30/2024, and Baker Hughes U.S. land rig count of 567 as of 9/27/2024. SOURCE Kimbell Royalty Partners, LP 7 january 2025 at 16:01 News published onand distributed by: SL CONTROLS, which has a base in Limerick, 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 (Limerick, Sligo, Dublin, and Galway) and the US (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. READ MORE: Restoration of power in over 12,000 Limerick homes could take 'multiple days' 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. FAMILY Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting over 500,000 family carers in Ireland, is collaborating with Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly), a global leader in healthcare innovation based in Raheen, to deliver critical supports to family carers across the country. This transformative multi-year initiative includes a financial contribution of 750,000. Family carers provide vital support in the home to loved ones living with additional needs, chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age-related conditions, often under significant financial, emotional, and physical strain. The funding will enable expanded respite services, activities for carers, and the development of a volunteer program, alongside enhancements to the charitys IT infrastructure and work to increase awareness of the vital contribution family carers make to Irish society. As part of the collaboration, Lilly employees across the companys three Irish sites - manufacturing plants in Kinsale and Limerick and a Global Business Solutions Centre in Little Island, and its commercial team based around the country, will contribute their time and expertise through volunteering, directly supporting FCIs initiatives and family carers in their local communities. Family carers across Ireland provide an estimated 19 million hours of unpaid care every week, saving the State approximately 20 billion annually. Despite their indispensable role, many carers continue to grapple with insufficient supports, financial strain, and emotional exhaustion. Family Carers Ireland works to ensure these contributions do not go unnoticed, supporting family carers and young carers through the provision of free emergency care planning, counselling, wellbeing support, crisis management, respite, and peer support groups. In its 2024 report, 'The State of Caring,' Family Carers Ireland revealed that 72% of carers have never received respite. Additionally, nearly 70% of carers find it difficult to make ends meet, and over a third report that their accommodation does not meet the needs of the person they care for. READ MORE: Permission refused for demolition of former takeaway in Clare coastal town Tara Tibbs, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Lillys Kinsale manufacturing site, emphasised the significance of this initiative: "We are driven by a commitment to make life betternot just through the medicines we create, but by making a genuine difference in the communities we serve. Lilly Ireland is really proud to collaborate with Family Carers Ireland on this initiative, giving us the opportunity to directly support the people who dedicate themselves to caring for their loved ones. We are excited to get stuck in and hopefully enrich the fantastic work Family Carers Ireland already does. Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, shared her appreciation for the support: "Family carers play an essential role in our society, often providing care at great personal sacrifice. Lillys generous support will allow us to improve our services, raise awareness of the challenges carers face, and offer them opportunities for respite and community engagement." Family Carers Ireland provides a range of services designed to meet carers diverse individual needs, including peer support groups, education programs, respite services, and emergency planning assistance. Through their national Freephone Careline, in person and online resources, they work tirelessly to support family carers to care safely and with confidence. MANY farmers in county Limerick have been left without water and power for days, following the heavy snow, as they try to look after their animals and calving season commences. There has also been damage to farm buildings with one shed collapsing on top of the cattle due to the weight of snow. Thankfully, the cattle weren't injured and a neighbour gave their owner the use of a shed. The ESB PowerWatch map shows dozens of faults ranging from Abbeyfeale over to Galbally. Some wont have power back until Thursday night. They now face temperatures as low as minus eight this Tuesday and Wednesday nights and freezing conditions until Friday. Darren Sheehy, Limerick / Clare Regional Executive IFA, asks farmers who are in trouble to contact the Limerick IFA office in Croom on 061 314196 and they will endeavour to help. Mr Sheehy, who farms in Effin, was filling barrels with water from his well on Tuesday morning when he spoke to Farm Leader. A neighbour was shortly going to be delivering them to farmers without water for their stock. A photo of a delivery of milk in a transport box on the back of a tractor in Dromcollogher has been widely shared on social media. Mr Sheehy said there is great community spirit and gives the example of a local woman delivering 34 cartons of milk to houses in the area on Monday night. Mr Sheehys concern is when the temperatures drop to minus eight as farmers with water will be struggling to keep it flowing. IFA Munster regional chair Conor OLeary said the ongoing and severe weather conditions are having a serious impact on farmers across the region. The announcement of an orange weather warning for Tuesday night is a real concern. The ESB and local authorities are working hard to restore services, but the challenges are huge. It is vital that full resources are made available nationally and locally to clear roads and restore and maintain services. The main concern for farmers at times like this is to look after their animals. This can be very challenging without electricity or water, or with difficulties in transporting supplies to the farm, said Conor. He said frozen pipes, and the challenge of maintaining water supplies for livestock, is the biggest problem at the moment. Farmers across Limerick, Tipperary, Cork, parts of Kerry and into south Leinster are dealing with the most severe aspects of the cold weather conditions. It looks like it could be at least Thursday before there is some thaw. The latest Status Orange alert will compound the difficulties caused by the freezing conditions in place since the weekend, he said. Mr OLeary said farmers are working together at a local level to assist their neighbours in any way possible. We are asking people to keep in contact with their neighbours who may need some support to get them through the next few days. While the county councils have devoted resources to keeping the main roads passable, conditions on local roads remain very challenging. Farmers have also been helping their neighbours by obtaining and delivering supplies. Farmers are happy to do this, but the pressure on farmers is mounting on farmers themselves as the cold spell continues. While it is understandable that the main roads are a priority, clearing local roads also needs to be a priority, said Mr OLeary. Deputy Richard ODonoghue (pictured below) also highlighted the plight of farmers, noting the items cleared out of all shops are bread and milk. I got a phone call from a pedigree farmer in Limerick. She said the calving season has started and they have no water or power for the last two days. There are people within a quarter of a mile, which have power, but there is a cluster there where they have no power. "She said they would do without food themselves, just to make sure the animals are fed, said Deputy ODonoghue. READ MORE: Garda and former Limerick hurler brings medication to snowed in pensioners Limerick IFA chairman Sean Lavery said farmers are a resilient lot by their nature and get on with things but stressed the importance of checking in on isolated neighbours. If they are living down a laneway or a passage just call into them and check they are OK. Even if they are a farmer and have a tractor it mightnt start in the cold and they may not be able to get out if they have a car and not a jeep, said Mr Lavery. Like Darren, his big concern is freezing and bursting water pipes and keeping milking machines operating in the coming days. THE Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) is appealing to Blood Donors old and new to help by attending this week's Limerick Emergency Blood Donation Clinics. A pre-amber alert letter has been issues to all hospitals and hospitals have been asked to reduce their stock holding. This enables the IBTS to manage the limited blood supply available more effectively across the health service. If the IBTS has to issue an amber alert letter which is the next escalation level of the blood shortage plan, it would have an immediate implication for hospitals and for elective surgical procedures requiring blood support.' This situation has been brought about by reduced Donor attendance due to the bad weather at a time when the service is coming out of the Christmas period when a restricted number of clinics were held. READ MORE: Well-known Limerick city pub closes after nine years in business Details of this week's Limerick Blood Donation Clinics are as follows: Greenhills Hotel Caherdavin, today, Tuesday, January 7, 4.15pm 7.30pm; Community Centre Newport, Wednesday, January 8, 3.50pm 7.10pm and Patrickswell Community Centre, Thursday, January 9, 11.50am to 3.10pm. New Donors are welcome at all clinics. Please phone 1800 2222 111 for appointments. 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! More than 55,000 new homes, including 15,000 social homes, are needed each year to address homelessness, advocacy groups have said. The Irish Homeless Policy Group has expressed concern over the absence of concrete proposals in political manifestos to address homelessness, as parties and independents meet for government formation talks after the general election. On Tuesday, it said 10 key actions are required in any programme for government to achieve long-term solutions. The group, which includes homelessness charities and groups like the Irish Refugee Council, said credible policies and tangible goals are needed. Emma Byrne, chairwoman of the group and policy officer with Focus Ireland, said: We believe ending homelessness is achievable and we believe a collaborative approach, which brings together organisations on the front lines along with local authorities, state agencies and strong cabinet support, will be the best approach. Mike Allen, Focus Irelands director of advocacy, said the group is hopeful the next government will take action on homelessness. Asked if Focus was hopeful about a change of housing minister, Mr Allen said: We will work with whoever the minister is, were more concerned that the policies are changed rather than the minister would change. The portfolio is currently held by Fianna Fails Darragh OBrien. Nick Henderson, chief executive of the Irish Refugee Council, said it is almost two years since the Department of Integration said it could no longer accommodate every male international protection applicant arriving in the country, in breach of the governments legal obligations. The state has failed to house thousands of international protection applicants, with 3,141 men currently without an official offer of accommodation. Mr Henderson expressed concern for extremely vulnerable asylum seekers who are without an offer of official accommodation. Last week, official statistics showed that the number of people accessing emergency accommodation had risen above 15,000 for the first time since records began. The Department of Housings official figures indicate that 15,199 people accessed emergency accommodation in November, comprising 4,658 children and 2,168 families. However, the numbers exclude those sleeping rough, refugees in direct provision centres, people in domestic violence shelters, and those sleeping in cars or on couches. The homelessness policy group has called for increased transparency around access to emergency accommodation and homelessness services. Adam Boyle, solicitor with the Mercy Law Resource Centre, said there was a deeply concerning and increasing trend of individuals and families not being assessed as homeless by local authorities. He said this was leading more people into hidden homelessness, making the official statistics unreliable. The policy documents ask government to work towards a goal of 20% of housing being social and cost rental, in line with the recommendations of the Housing Commission Report, to meet the exiting housing deficit and future demand. It also asks for a 2030 goal of making sure no one is homeless for more than six months by dedicating 10% of new social housing supply to existing long-term homeless households. Mr Allen warrned that without a scheme prioritising such people, the next government will continue to fail homelessness even if it succeeds on housing. He added: That will have huge political, social and economic consequences. The key actions also ask for the prioritisation of homelessness prevention measures, ensuring nobody has to sleep rough regardless of their legal status, and improvements for mental health services for the homeless. It also calls for a private rental strategy setting out a clear vision for the role the sector can play in the wider housing landscape. Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne asked for the panels view on comments by Taoiseach Simon Harris, who said in September that emergency accommodation figures were heavily impacted by international protection applicants. Mr Henderson said the remarks were clumsy at best and extremely problematic at worst. He warned there is a need to be very, very careful about connecting a steady increase in homelessness with asylum seekers. Mr Harris later clarified that his comments related to exits from direct provision being cited as the largest reason for presentations to homelessness services in Dublin in July. Mr Allen said there was a long-running tradition of people saying homelessness is caused by people experiencing homelessness. It is very damaging in endless number of ways as well as being untrue. Mr Henderson also highlighted comments in December from outgoing integration minister Roderic OGorman, who said his department was accommodating 6,000 homeless people who had a legal right to be in Ireland as refugees, arguing there would be less pressure on the international protection accommodation system if local authorities housed those people. He said the comments by Mr OGorman were too late. DEFENCE Forces helicopters have been spotted hoovering across Limerick skies, as they have been assisting the ESB in restoring thousands of peoples electricity. Due to the recent adverse weather conditions, Defence Forces have also deployed personnel in response to a request from Limerick City and County Council and other local authorities. The Air Corps has deployed two helicopters to aid the ESB inline inspection and repairs, which is due to continue this Tuesday. Thousands of homes, farms and businesses remain without power locally, the worst affected being those in county Limerick. Additionally, there have been multiple requests for assistance in the transportation of essential healthcare workers and patients. READ ALSO: Readers' pictures of winter scenes and fun in the snow in Limerick One Southern Brigade (1 Bde) is the lead formation and has assisted with these requests throughout the day, in Limerick and Kanturk, Kilkenny, Carlow and Killorglin. A total of 29 personnel and 18 vehicles have been deployed. The extent of the Defence Forces response will be based on continued requests, they have said. Tanaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheal Martin said: I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Civil Defence teams and volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the past 48 hours responding to severe weather across the country. This essential ongoing work has included assisting HSE staff in transporting palliative care and dialysis patients; helping gardai with vehicles stranded on roads; assistance to homes with no power or water; the transport of healthcare staff, and the provision of fuel for generators for vulnerable home care patients. We are fortunate to have the services of such professional, experienced and willing personnel at such a demanding time for so many, especially the most vulnerable people in our communities. THE heavy snowfall has seen huge queues form outside one County Limerick store in scenes reminiscent of wartime food shortages and rationing. Large crowds of people queued outside Sheehy's Centra in Kilfinane to pick up essential items such as bread and milk following the severe wintery conditions across the country. Local people have been putting out call-outs for tractors and help, with one local requesting that someone with a tractor check on her parents who were without water or electricity. Commenting on the situation in the County Limerick town, Cllr Tommy O'Sullivan, said: "It's as bad as I've seen in my life so far. We're hearing stories of the 1963 snowfall and people who would have been around then are equating now to then, that's how bad it is up here in the mountains." The Fine Gael councillor thinks that residents could be "snowed in" there for a few more days. Cllr O'Sullivan said people are stuck in their homes but that everybody is out helping each other and credited Sheehy's Centra and Murphy's Filling Station for opening their doors during the extreme weather to provide people with basic food items and fuel. He has been inundated with calls during the severe weather to help local residents. "The council have really pulled out all the stops." He also met a tourist staying in Ballyorgan who walked from there to Centra in Kilfinane. "He couldn't believe the generosity of the lady in the shop... There's a sense of pride as well that we were able to offer that to our visitors." READ MORE: Defence Forces deploy helicopters over Limerick to help ESB restore electricity Cllr O'Sullivan has seen huge community spirit amongst locals helping people in different houses and shovelling snow from the paths. There was also food for those in need at the local church. He remarked that the positive was that people got out for a walk and met their neighbours which they wouldn't normally have time to do. The Fine Gael councillor warned people to be mindful of the weather in the coming days with temperatures forecast to fall and black ice likely. While road, pavement and weather conditions continue to impact letter, parcel and post office services, An Post staff have been able to safely attempt deliveries on at least part of more affected routes this morning. Some parts of Limerick are still badly impacted and snow ploughs were used to clear the yards and access roads around several An Post local delivery depots to ensure staff and operational safety. Just six Post Offices remain closed today across the country including Kilmallock, Templeglantine, Ballylanders and Anglesborough in County Limerick thanks to power reconnections and improved road clearance enabling staff and postmasters to access their offices. As the new year kicks off, Lincoln University of Missouri is rolling out 25 in 25 points of pride to build on last years momentum and keep propelling the University to future success. Today, Lincoln announced that Dr. Jerome Offord Jr., associate university librarian and chief diversity officer for the Harvard Library, will deliver the keynote address at Lincoln University of Missouris 2025 Founders' Day Convocation on Jan. 16, 2025. Dr. Offord serves as president of the 62nd & 65th Regiments Legacy Foundation and is a 1993 Lincoln graduate. As part of his position at Harvard Library, Dr. Offord advances the library's legacy of diversity initiatives and collaborates extensively to develop strategies for organizational change through the librarys workforce, services, collections and spaces. Before joining Harvard, Dr. Offord served as the vice president for business and administration at DeEtta Jones and Associates and held senior cabinet positions at Lincoln University of Missouri over a span of eight years. Lincoln University is thrilled and honored to welcome Dr. Jerome Offord, Jr. back to campus," said Lincoln University President Dr. John Moseley. "Dr. Offord was one of the first people I met when I got to Lincoln and his passion for this institution has always been evident. I am excited to collaborate with him in his role as the president of the 62nd & 65th Regiments Legacy Foundation because it is clear that he understands the need for Lincolnites to work together to honor the veterans who founded our storied University and to ensure that we are here for another 159 years. At Lincoln University of Missouri, Dr. Offord served in several senior positions over eight years. He began as dean of library services and archives, later serving as interim provost, chief of staff to the president and dean of administration and student affairs. He also held various student affairs positions at Colorado State University, George Washington University and American University. Offord holds a Ph.D. in library and information science with a focus on managerial leadership from Simmons University in Boston. He also holds masters degrees in library and information science from the Catholic University of America, in student affairs in higher education from Colorado State University, an executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis and a Bachelor of Science in agriculture from Lincoln University. He currently serves as the president of the 62nd & 65th Regiments Legacy Foundation board of directors. An annual celebration on Lincolns campus, Founders Day honors the Civil War veterans of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries who created the educational foundation that Lincoln continues today. The 2025 event celebrates 159 years of Lincoln education in Jefferson City, Missouri. The Founders Day address is free and open to the public. It will take place on Thursday, Jan. 16, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Mitchell Auditorium at Richardson Fine Arts Center (710 E. Dunklin St., Jefferson City, Missouri) on Lincoln's campus. In a first, Infosys Ltd has asked employees to think out of the box and come up with new ideas that can be scaled up and offered to clients as part of a business incubator programme. A core objective of the Be The Navigator Business Incubator programme, which is open to all employees across job levels, locations and subsidiaries, is to generate new revenue streams and growth opportunities for the Bengaluru-based company, according to an internal mail sent by Infosys to its employees on 26 December, which Mint reviewed. Apart from trying to boost additional business from clients, the move appears to be a way for the countrys second-largest information technology services company to retain talent by giving employees jaded with monotonous work a chance to explore and work on new technologies. The company added 2,456 employees for a total of 317,788 at the end of September. The attrition rate rose to 12.9% compared with 12.7% in the preceding June quarter. Participating in Incubator is a full-time role. So, the employee will need to move out of his/her current role," the company said in the guidelines for the programme. The incubator will consider ideas for platforms and service lines. The ideas need to be digital in nature, unique from existing offerings, and should align with Infosys model and business strategy." Employees can pitch ideas in teams of three to the Incubator council, which includes leaders across various domains in the company. The number of people working for an idea can be increased as per the business plan. Infosys, which ended FY24 with $18.6 billion in revenue, will fund the software, hardware, travel, and marketing and even provide space for the ideas pitched. The company did not disclose the source or amount of funding earmarked for the programme. This is a form of employee engagement booster and possibly from Infosys standpoint, the ability to participate in the upside if the idea sees greater uptick," said a Mumbai-based analyst with a domestic brokerage. An email sent to Infosys on Sunday went unanswered. Dangling a reward Employees whose ideas are selected will receive the same salaries as before and their job level will remain the same. However, they stand to gain a reward. If your idea is selected for patent filing, you along with co-innovators would be eligible for rewards up to $2,000 ( 171,420) for each successful invention," the company said. All ideas that go through will belong to Infosys and the inventors will be acknowledged as per the companys intellectual property (IP) policies. The company sent a six-page declaration to employees, declaring that all IPs, trademarks, patents, trade secrets, and copyrights as part of the idea, including those that would emerge in the future, would belong to Infosys. If the approved ideas do not scale up, the employees can return to their units. If an employee whose idea is part of the programme wants to leave the venture or the company, Infosys will plan for a transition and the employee must follow the existing exit protocols. While this business incubation programme is a first for the company, it has not shied away from tapping employees for business ideas in the past. In July 2014, then Infosys chief executive Vishal Sikka launched murmurations, a crowdsourcing initiative aimed at encouraging employees to come up with ideas that could be implemented by clients. Employees across ranks and domains were told to send ideas even if they did not pertain to their projects. To ensure this initiative did not just remain in the inbox, Sikka implemented 10 of the 2,700 ideas he received. Unlike the 2014 rollout, this approach aims to solidify the initiative beyond just an idea to clients. The new initiative by Infosys under Salil Parekh is arguably the first by an IT services company. Parekh, who took over as Infosys chief executive in January 2018, has helped the company regain its mojo but growth has been subdued over the past one or two quarters. Revenue growth Infosys has five platforms or software products that it offers to clients, according to its website. Ideas that pass through the stages of research and implementation and make it as a scaled business offering will be added to the platforms list, the company added. While Infosys does not break up the revenue from its business platforms, the move to introduce new business offerings is in line with the companys growth plan. Its main revenue segments are financial services, retail, communication, energy, utilities, resources & services, manufacturing, hi-tech and life sciences. The IT outsourcing company reported the quickest revenue growth of Indias top five IT service-providers last quarter. It reported a 3.8% sequential rise in revenue to $4.89 billion in the three months ended September. Infosys now expects to end FY25 with a 3.75-4.5% annual revenue growth, higher than its initial projection of 1-3% growth in constant currency terms. Microsoft plans to spend $3 billion over the next two years to expand its cloud and artificial-intelligence infrastructure in India, the latest in a string of investment pledges by U.S. tech giants amid booming AI computing needs. Microsoft Chief Executive Satya Nadella said at an event in Bengaluru, India, on Tuesday that the investment marks the companys single largest expansion in the country to date. The company plans to grow the companys Azure cloud business in India and set up new data centers. It is also aiming to train 10 million locals with AI skills by 2030. Nadella made the announcement as part of his visit to the country. He had met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday and discussed the companys investment plans. The U.S. company currently has three data-center clusters in India, with a fourth in the works, as well as capacity built with telecommunications company Jio, a subsidiary of Indian conglomerate Reliance Industries, according to Microsoft. The company plans to invest $80 billion in AI data centers in its current fiscal year ending in June, according to a blog post by Microsoft President Brad Smith last Friday. Spending $80 billion on data centers would continue the trajectory set in Microsofts first quarter that ended last September, when it spent $20 billion on capital expenditures and leases, primarily for data centers. Revenue for the tech giants Azure cloud businessa core element of its AI offeringrose 33% in its fiscal first quarter. Write to Kimberley Kao at kimberley.kao@wsj.com Initial updates from banks for the December quarter reveal a mixed performance, with private and public sector lenders charting distinct paths in loans and deposit growth. So far, 13 banks six private sector and seven public sector lendershave reported their third quarter business updates. These reports highlight a divergence in growth strategies, with private lenders prioritizing deposit mobilization while public banks focus on loan expansion. State-owned banks showcased relative stability in their credit-deposit (CD) ratios, reflecting their emphasis on loan expansion. While the entire banking system has struggled with a deposit crunch for much of the last two years, deposit growth is typically easier for state-owned banks given their larger presence across the country, comfort of government backing and customer loyalty, allowing them to be better placed compared to their private peers in terms of the deposit base. Read this | PSU banks are giving the best FD rates in eight years. Here's why In contrast, private sector banks, which have been aggressively chasing deposits for several quarters, reported an uptick in deposit growth, a development crucial for addressing their elevated CD ratios. Diverging loan and deposit trends Despite Q3 traditionally being a period of high loan growth due to accelerated festival spending, the quarter saw some moderation in loan growth. System-wide credit growth slowed to an estimated 11% in Q3, compared with 13% in the previous quarter. Read this | The collateral damage in RBIs crackdown on loan frenzy, KYC Indias largest private lender, HDFC Bank, reported its slowest loan growth in recent years, with advances rising just 3% year-over-year and 0.9% sequentially. This was attributed to the banks aggressive portfolio sales aimed at improving its loan-deposit ratio (LDR). Deposits at HDFC Bank rose by 15.8% on-year and 2.5% sequentially, driven primarily by term deposits, which grew 23% on-year. However, the banks CASA (current account savings account) ratio declined by 130 basis points to 34%. Deposit growth (for HDFC Bank) was led by a sharp growth in term deposits (+23% YoY), as the CASA ratio declined to 34% (-130 bps QoQ). Loan growth declined further to 3% YoY (vs 7% YoY in Q2 FY25), a combination of a system wide slowdown in loan growth and the banks continued securitization of its loan portfolio," Bernstein Research said in a note. During the quarter, HDFC Bank securitized loans worth 21,600 crore. While retail loans grew 10% year-over-year and commercial and rural banking loans rose 12%, corporate loans declined 10%. The moderation in HDFC Banks loan growth, coupled with healthy deposit growth, contributed to a 150-basis point sequential decline in its LDR, Bernstein added. It emphasized that while these trends appear positive for balance sheet health, slower loan growth necessitates higher returns on assets (RoA) to sustain earnings per share (EPS) growth. Among banks that reported Q3 updates, loan growth ranged between 12% and 19% year-on-year, excluding HDFC Banks subdued 3% growth. Union Bank of India was an outlier among public sector lenders, posting just 5.3% loan growth. Sequentially, most banks reported loan growth of 2-5%, except for HDFC Bank, which managed only 0.9%. On the deposit front, growth ranged from 6% to 16% year-over-year across most lenders. However, Bandhan Bank and IDFC First Bank emerged as notable outliers, posting 20% and 29% deposit growth, respectively. Sequential deposit growth was muted at 0-4%, with some banksUnion Bank, IndusInd Bank, and Bandhan Bankreporting declines of 1-2% from the previous quarter. We expect return ratios of private banks to remain under pressure due to slower loan growth, NIM (net interest margin) compression, and credit cost normalisation. Weak deposit growth for the system, high loan-to-deposit ratio and tight banking system liquidity should keep loan growth muted," HSBC Research said in a note. The research firm added that a shift toward lower-yielding loans, capped LDRs, and declining CASA ratios would further erode private banks margins. Banks with significant exposure to microfinance (MFI) loans are expected to experience elevated credit costs, adding another layer of pressure. Banks such as RBL Bank, Bandhan Bank and IndusInd saw asset quality and consequently earnings being hit in Q1 and Q2 due to higher delinquencies in the microfinance portfolio. Most of these banks had then built additional provisions to battle this stress and said that they are strengthening underwriting for these loans leading to higher credit costs for these loan segments. Read this | Banks tighten underwriting, go slow on MFI loans as asset quality stress weighs HSBC Research estimates a 4% sequential decline in net profit for private banks in Q3. In contrast, public sector banks are likely to deliver stronger earnings, buoyed by steady loan growth and less pronounced margin pressures. System credit growth, adjusted for the HDFC merger, moderated to 11.8% year-over-year in November, down from 12.8% in the previous month. By mid-December, credit growth improved marginally to 12.4% year-over-year but remained aligned with deposit growth, which stood at 11.9%. The system-level LDR ratio continued to hover at an elevated 78%, reflecting the broader liquidity challenges within the banking sector. Loan to deposit ratio for banks is calculated basis total amount of loans given divided by the total amount of deposits for the same period. Also read | Why small finance banks want to glide faster into universal banking Typically, an ideal loan-to-deposit ratio is considered to be 75-80% whereas a ratio above 100% indicates that the bank has loaned every rupee received as deposits, reflecting the possibility of higher capital requirements. Kids moonlighting as influencers might have to pause their business ambitions for a while as their parents and companies decipher the governments proposed rules for monitoring social media use by children. The first draft of the rules to enforce the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 prescribes that children under 18 cannot use social media without the explicit consent of their parents or legal guardians. A data fiduciary shall adopt appropriate technical and organization measures to ensure that verifiable consent of the parent is obtained before the processing of any personal data of a child and shall observe due diligence," it states. The draft rules, published on Friday for public consultation, have left companies hesitant to partner with child influencers, or kidfluencers, until they have better clarity on the proposed changes, despite these firms already having obtained parental consent for existing contracts. India has an estimated 75,509 influencers under the age of 18 with more than 10,000 followers each on Instagram, per data furnished by influencer marketing software platform Qoruz. Overall, India has more than 3 million influencer profiles on Instagram with over 10,000 followers each. We do not have much clarity on the legal compliances of marketing through minor social media influencers," said Anuj Chawla, director at Dreamland Publications, which publishes childrens books. To avoid any complications, we are planning to work more with only mom influencers who create content around parenthood to target the mothers of kids to buy our products." Other children-focused brands that engage kidfluencers for marketing campaigns, such as chocolate brand Kinder Joy, toy retailer Hamleys, and Firstcry, an online seller of baby products, did not respond to Mints queries sent on Sunday evening. Also read | Indias Digital Data Protection rules: A story of hits and misses Although companies already obtain parental consent to collaborate with child influencers, lawyers say the contracts will now need to be more detailed. Brand partnership agreements with kid influencers, or their parents, would also require careful revision to include provisions for obtaining and maintaining parental consent," said Aditi Verma Thakur, Senior Partner, Ediplis Counsels, who specialises in intellectual property, commercial and data protection laws. These provisions might cover parental responsibilities such as granting consent, ratifying the childs social media activities and partnerships, and adhering to the necessary processes for providing consent on the respective platforms," said Thakur, who specialises in intellectual property law. Some brand experts, however, view the proposed data protection rules for children as an additional formality to ensure the security of minors and dont see a need for drastic restrictions or changes. On the face of it, requiring parental consent for childrens accounts on social media seems more of a formality because one assumes these influencers are doing what they do with their parents knowledge, consent and even involvement," said Sumanto Chattopadhyay, an independent creative consultant. Once the paperwork is revised to accommodate the new requirements, the proposed rules will not be a hurdle in brands engaging kidfluencers for their marketing, he said, adding, however, that the dust needs to settle on the DPDP rules before their implications become clearer. Also read | Indias data protection law may not be enough to secure peoples privacy Parents on board Expectedly, parents of some kid influencers support the proposed regulations because of the potential benefits of a safer online environment for their children. As a parent, if I am aware that my child is posting clean content on social media that is safe for viewing by other minors too, why would I not support him?," said P.U. Joby, father of the 10-year-old motivational influencer Benjamin Joby who went viral in June last year for his sapne dekhna achi baat hai (it is good to dream) reel on Instagram. This is a great move, in my view, that would, in fact, reduce the incidents of trolling by some teenagers on social media," added Joby, whose son hasmore than 209,000 followers on Instagram and collaborates with brands regularlyIndiGo airline, fintech platform INDmoney and crypto trading platform CoinSwitch, among them. Also read | 10-year-old Benjamin Jobys viral video mirrors the rise of online motivational content Shivani Kapila Tyagi, a mom influencer known as Little Glove who also handles the social media account of her three-year-old daughter Aadya Tyagi, expects the proposed data protection rules to impact older minors more than younger kids. Shivani Kapila Tyagi has more than 1.4 million followers on Instagram. Her daughters Instagram account boasts about 111,000 followers and collaborations with clothing brands Cozy Cuddles and Little Looms. View Full Image Shivani Kapila Tyagi has more than 1.4 million followers on Instagram, while her 3-year-old daughter Aadya Tyagi's Instagram account boasts 111,000 followers. This picture is from their Instagram collaboration with FirstCry. This rule may seem a little harsh in the beginning, especially for teenagers who independently handle their accounts without parental interference, but it is a greater step towards internet safety," said Tyagi. As a parent, when I see my daughter, who belongs to Gen Alpha (children born in 2010-2024)a digital-native generation, use my phone sometimes I am always scared... I feel that parents accounts should be linked to their children to keep a check on content that they (the children) are consuming and posting and whether it is safe," she added. Also read | The lives of Indias baby influencers Indias proposed DPDP rules came a couple of weeks after Australia announced a complete ban on social media use for children under the age of 16. In the age of AI (artificial intelligence) technology, where deepfakes are being used to create pornographic content from social media posts rampantly, children are not safe on the internet," said Gauhar Mirza, partner at law firm Cyril Amarchand. Data collected by Instagram engagement-enhancing platform Twicsy in March 2024 indicated that over 84% of influencers were victims of deepfake pornography worldwide, with India being the second-most susceptible behind the US. We have seen cases from child pornography, trolling and cursing to even kidnapping," added Mirza, who specialises in technology law, so it (the proposed data protection rules) is a step in the right direction to shift the responsibility and safety of a childs social media presence to the parents instead of intermediaries." Also read | Are social media influencers equipped to dodge cyberattacks? Honda and Nissan recently announced plans to merge by 2026. Unthinkable 10 years ago, the merger is intended to keep the companies competitive as the automobile industry makes a transition to electric vehicles. Failure to do so spells doom in todays car market. Foreign EV manufacturers have created an existential crisis" for Germanys once-mighty domestic industry. China recently became the worlds leading car exporter, thanks to heavy investment in EVs. The U.S. is also making great strides in this growing market, but some American politicians want to wave the white flag. Although a combination of private-sector innovation and support from Congress has driven the EV sectors growth in the U.S., lawmakers are floating the possibility of ending consumer and manufacturing tax incentives for manufacturers and parts suppliers. These incentives level the playing field for American businesses in the face of huge public investments from Europe and China. They are necessary to help America compete. In the past two years, companies such as Ford and General Motors have announced more than 100,000 new EV-related jobs. Automakers and other companies have built or are building vehicle, battery and parts factories in 160 congressional districts across the country. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves called the battery plant under construction in his state a project of record proportionsthe single largest payroll commitment in Mississippis entire history." Federal manufacturing and consumer tax credits have fostered massive growth all the way up the EV supply chain, from vehicle assembly to critical minerals. The credits have strict eligibility standards, requiring that the majority of critical minerals and battery components come from the U.S. or an ally. Consumers can receive a $7,500 credit for purchasing an EV. The enactment of this credit encouraged Hyundai to fast-track plans for a Georgia factory. Working together, the supply-side and demand-side credits are fueling the domestic industry. EV sales are growing, with November sales up 13.6% over last year. If Congress eliminates these incentives, booming communities across the country will be devastated. Americas ability to build its industry globally requires domestic consumer demand. For the near future, this requires a boost from these policies, as many new industries do. Killing the tax credits will have a domino effect: Plants will close, sales will slow, and American businesses wont be able to compete on the global market. Congress could cost the U.S. billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of jobsthats what this transformed industry will soon provide. Protecting the industry is common sense. It saves American families money, invests in local economies, and keeps the country in this economic race. Lets give our businesses a fighting chance to beat the global competition. Mr. Krupp is president of the Environmental Defense Fund. In Japan, izakayas are hubs for social dining with affordable menus. They serve comforting dishesfrom ramen to yakitori and karagecomplemented by sakes, cocktails and beers. Typically, they are casual neighbourhood restaurants where people hangout with colleagues, friends or family after work," explains Sameer Uttamsingh. The Mumbai-based restaurant consultant opened a modern izakaya, Donmai, in Mumbais posh corporate area Worli last month. He partnered with young entrepreneur and artist Ish Patil who hails from the citys prominent business family DY Patil. Izakaya as a restaurant format is catching up in India because its menu is malleable. In other words, it can be tweaked to adapt to diverse palates while the soul of the food retains its Japanese essence. The kitchen is led by chef Oishik Neogi who polished his culinary chops in South Asian cooking at the J.W. Marriott in Vietnam, the Japanese restaurant Roboto in Goa and the Michelin-starred Gaa in Bangkok. Earlier last year, he was at the Japanese Culinary Institute in the city of Atami in east Japan. After his return to Mumbai, he joined Donmai. In an interview with Lounge, Uttamsingh and Neogi talk about Japanese cooking, crockery and eating out in Atami. View Full Image Co-founder Sameer Uttamsingh (left) and chef Oishik Neogi. What fascinates you about Japanese food? Neogi: Its so much more than sushis and sashimis. Japanese cooking is playful, innovative, produce-driven, no fuss, and the emphasis is on bringing out the flavour of each ingredient. We have a salad on our menu called the Kobujime Tomato Salad. Kobujime is an ancient process of preserving and treating fish wrapped in kombu, or seaweed. Here, instead of fish, we have cured tomatoes in seaweed which develops a rich umami flavor and develops a meatier profile. Then theres Tataki shrooms. Tataki is a technique where and ingredients isnt fully cooked to retain hints of its natural flavour and texture. In our dish, king oyster mushrooms are lightly seared and arranged on a plate. What prompted you to launch Donmai? Uttamsingh: Its a modern izakaya where we have tried to bring our take on food served in these casual Japanese places. In Mumbai, diners have become very appreciative of Japanese food, and the izakaya style is fairly popular. The market is ready for something which is on similar lines, but more contemporary and energetic. We thought of making the food slightly more elevated and the drinks are quite innovative. Elaborate on your drinks programme. Uttamsingh: There are spirit-forward as well as zero alcohol drinks and a selection of sakes from Japans Tatsuuma-Honke Brewing Company and Kitaya Brewery. For cocktail, we have techniques borrowed from molecular gastronomy, like sous vide, and a few clarified options. Most of our drinks come with a small snack on the side. For instance we have a white Negroni flavoured with truffle and topped with truffle foam. It come with a roasted garlic twill dusted with sea salt to break the monotony of the beverage. Theres another drink, Togarashi. Its a smoked Margarita spiced with togarashi. Its paired with a barbequed rice crisp for an added depth of flavour. Japan is known for its spectacular pottery. Do you have any interesting dishes featuring Japanese crockery? Neogi: We have a rice dish cooked in traditional Japanese donabe pots. These vessels have a lacquered cover and perforated bottom. The last layer of the rice gets a nice, golden, crispy texture and a smoky flavour. Then it can be layered with fish, vegetables or more rice. At the restaurant, this is served as a sharing portion. Can you share a brief list of restaurant recommendations in Japan? Neogi: In Tokyo, theres a family run place, Nanbantai which has served world leaders, like US President George Bush. The most interesting places are small eateries that dont have any name and cannot be located on Google map. For instance, when I was at Atami, I visited a tiny place at the shopping district near the railway station that served only rice with unnagi (fresh water eel). I stood there for more than two hours to taste it. In the same area, there was a bakery that served fresh made-to-order milky buns neatly stuffed with adzuki (red bean paste) on one side, and pure white butter on the other. If you visit Japan, I would recommend asking locals about such places, explore and find your favourites. Also read: Where to go for a bar crawl in Sri Lanka right now Mumbai/ New Delhi: India Inc is closely tracking the surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) - which causes respiratory illness- in some Southeast Asian nations following an outbreak in China, and has asked its employees to travel to these countries only if necessary, and take precautions such as masking up to dodge the infection. Malaysia has reportedly seen a jump in HMPV infections, whose symptoms include fever, runny nose, and shortness of breath. "We are closely watching this space. Group companies where we see most travel to these destinations are asking employees to exercise all precautions, including the use of masks, sanitisers, and even avoiding travel, if possible. Employees are to check latest company advisories before any travel," said Supratik Bhattacharyya, chief talent officer for RPG Group. The information technology-to-tyre conglomerate is not the only business house keeping an eye out for the latest reports on HMPV cases, some of which have been reported in India as well. An energy company had an internal meeting of HR officials on Monday to discuss the strategies that they will need to put in place in case there is a surge in cases in India. "The stock markets have taken a dip and the virus is one of the reasons. We discussed what steps to be taken and when should a formal advisory go out," said a senior official of the company, declining to be identified. The benchmark Sensex lost nearly 1,260 points, or 1.6%, on Monday to settle at 77,964.99 amid fears of a virus surge and weakness in bank stocks following a muted credit growth. To be sure, aviation consultants have emphasized that the government may need to start monitoring international passengers coming into the country. There are some firms that have stuck to the safety protocols adopted during the covid-19 pandemic. "Masks in case of common cold, regular washing of hands, and sanitizing of devices is encouraged. As our employees regularly travel across the globe, we encourage them to follow local and international health advisories," said Adarsh Mishra, chief human resources officer (CHRO), Panasonic Life Solutions India. During covid years, Indian companies had declared work from home, and it was only in 2024 that businesses began asking their employees to return to office. HMPV caught global attention when China reported a surge in the respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms in the week ended 22 December, with the country's disease control authority noting an upward trend in cases. Government advises caution The Indian health ministry convened a joint monitoring group meeting with experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), and medical agencies last Saturday. It had then noted that while there was no unusual surge in respiratory illnesses, the government will increase testing for HMPV as a precautionary measure. On Monday, the ministry said that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had detected two cases of HMPV in infants through routine surveillance. However, later in the day, PTI mentioned a total of five cases have been reported in the country. India's government and the medical community have pointed out that there is no reason for alarm, but have advised precaution. Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2021 and has been circulating in the entire world since then," said J.P. Nadda, Union minister of health and family welfare. HMPV spreads through air by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups and the virus spreads more during winter and early spring months. On recent reports of the cases on HMPV China, the health ministry, the Indian Council of Medical Research and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries. The WHO has taken cognisance of the situation and will share their report shortly with us," Nadda said. The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring that the country is ready for any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation," he added. "Our leading pulmonologists believe that the current HMPV situation in China doesnt warrant panic in India as of now, with a few reported cases and little morbidity. We need to follow the basic precautions, which include washing of hands regularly, wearing masks in crowded places and staying hydrated," Arunesh Punetha, CEO, western region, Apollo Hospitals told Mint. Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka have released precautionary advisories. The aviation industry, which was one of the first to get impacted during the pandemic, will be on alert. "India needs to find an easy way to begin checking and tracking passengers like we did during the second wave of covid. The government needs to monitor international passenger arrivals and the health department should monitor them for 10 days," said Sanjay Lazar, chief executive officer of Avialaz Consultants, an aviation consultancy firm. Aviation operations While India does not have direct flights to China since the 2020 border skirmish, Indians take a detour to other Southeast Asian countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia etc in order to fly to and from China. During the pandemic, the aviation sector came to a complete standstill, before gradually resuming operations. India's largest airline IndiGo said it is committed to providing a safe and healthy travel experience for its customers. In response to the evolving situation with HMPV, we are diligently following all prescribed procedures and recommendations. Our existing cleaning protocols meet high standards of hygiene, and we are prepared to enhance them in accordance with any future directives. The safety and well-being of our customers and crew remain our top priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely and adapt our operations as required by the government," a company spokesperson told Mint. Mint reached out to the Union civil aviation ministry, Air India, Malaysia Airlines and Cathay Pacific, but they had not responded till press time. Also read | Mega aviation package to cut levies, ease rules soon Diagnostic laboratories have not raised any alarm yet. "The combination of cold weather, worsening air pollution, increased international air travel, festive gatherings, and crowding creates an ideal environment for spread of HMPV. Testing and robust surveillance are critical to monitor and manage outbreaks effectively especially considering the recent surge of HMPV infections in China," said Niranjan Patil-head and biosafety officer for infectious diseases, microbiology and molecular biology -- Metropolis Healthcare Ltd. Metropolis did not confirm whether they had seen a surge in testing for HMPV in recent weeks. An executive at a genomics testing facility focused on infectious diseases, who requested anonymity, told Mint that it was too soon to ascertain if there is an actual surge in cases and what is causing it. With inputs from Priyanka Sharma As 2024 came to an end, a number of alarming articles have been published in various global and national media on 2024 being the hottest year on record, the disastrous impact of extreme events due to climate change, the need to enhance climate action in the face of contentious climate negotiations in Azerbaijan and an American election that does not bode well for the climate agenda, among others. All these concerns are valid and need immediate attention. However, several other articles highlighted positive developments related to the ground being laid for a potential transition away from fossil fuels, notably the explosion of affordable and accessible renewable energy, the rapid growth of electric vehicles, the falling costs of battery storage, big moves away from coal, etc. But these articles provide little solace. The sense of foreboding around climate change is palpable primarily because of the contrast between widely published real-time data and the highly visible impact of extreme events across the world and the perceptibly slow evolution of a sub-set of solutions that may take years to reach a take-off point. That the human mind is predisposed to a negativity biasa cognitive bias that recognizes and responds to negative events with greater sensitivity than when positive or neutral things of equal intensity occurhas been well established for at least half a century. This bias is abundantly visible in discussions on climate change and its impacts, fed by the same dread visible in some news reportage and on social media. This bias, however, must be positively harnessed. What evolved among our ancestors as an adaptive survival mechanism, one that often evokes similar responses today, could be put to good use in solving the climate crisis. Unfortunately, the world is dealing with two highly complex, intertwined and integrated systems: the planetary system of which climate is a part and the socioeconomic system in which we are embedded. The former, over which the human species has great influence, seems to be unravelling in an uncontrollable fashion. The year 2024 experienced a full year of temperatures 1.5 Celsius above the long-term average, although just five years ago, science had projected this to happen in 11 years. The latter needs a timely transformation in response, but we still do not have a proper grip on the levers of this process, with political and economic interests dragging their feet against the concerted action needed. In the face of these systemic changes and collective action required, however, our adaptive survival mechanism tends to shift individual responsibility to first responders, in this case governments and/or businesses. This became obvious in the Peoples Climate Vote 2024 conducted by the UNDP. While 84% of this surveys respondents were equally or more worried about climate change this year compared to the last, 80% felt that their countries should strengthen their commitment to climate action and 43% felt that governments have the greatest influence and responsibility to act (big business garnered a mere 14% of the vote). Also read: Climate action must rise above politics before time runs out In India, surprisingly, only about 75% of the respondents were more worried about climate change, although 82% of them said they were worried about the impact of climate change on the next generation. Even so, 77% felt that we need to strengthen our commitment and 46% affirmed a belief in governments being the key actors. This clearly indicates high levels of vulnerability to accelerating climate change felt in India and highlights the need for greater adaptive and resilience-building actions. Science, the experience of climate change, its increasingly evident impact and popular opinion across the world all urgently call for much greater ambition on climate action in 2025. While governments need to provide the right regulatory framework and a level-playing field for businesses to respond, the negativity bias must be positively harnessed. This adaptive survival mechanism intrinsic to humanity could address the demand side of the equation by encouraging individuals to make climate-friendly choices; a lack of such demand remains lamented by industry as a key barrier to transforming businesses. To achieve this, much greater attention also needs to be paid to the framing of actions and their costs/benefits. The communication and media industry should treat climate messaging as a special challenge, as compared to routine information coverage. Media vehicles should also re-evaluate their presentation of the crisis and track the impact it has on their target audiences in a deliberative manner. The year 2024 closed on a depressing note, with the 29th Conference of the Parties (CoP) on Climate Change being labelled the worst CoP" and heart-breaking," giving voice to increasing despair in front-line geographies and resonating particularly with younger generations the world over. However, imperfect as it was, CoP-29 did set a new climate-finance goal, concluded rules on carbon trading and saw progress on raising the worlds ambition to cut emissions. Governments too are finding ways to accelerate climate transitions in a palatable manner, nudging markets to show their magic. And businesses are cognizant of the reality that, sooner rather than later, they will have to conform with societal expectations of climate responsibility. Lets hope 2025 provides a turning point on climate action and associated perceptions. The author is an independent expert on climate change and clean energy. Elon Musk is in a free-speech fight over his decision to demonetize the content of some far-right Make America Great Again (MAGA) critics who disagreed with his immigration views on his social media platform X. What is most remarkable about the argument is that both sides fail to acknowledge the simple truth of how speech, free or otherwise, works on social media. Its worth taking a moment to clarify what free speech means in the context of those platforms. The most fundamental fact about speech on social media is that it takes two to tango: the user and the platform. You, the user, produce contentcommonly described in this industry as UGC for user-generated content. The platform takes that content and, using its algorithm, sends it out to other platform users, your audience. Both actors are essential and both are necessarily working in tandem. Nothing would be said on social media without the user to produce content. No one would know what you said without the platform to publish the content. Hence, every act on a platform necessarily combines your speech with the platforms choice of what to distribute. Compare this structure to legacy media, like the column youre reading. I wrote it and Bloomberg published it [first]. Both the company and I are speaking to you jointly right now. The difference between legacy media and social media is that Bloomberg hired me to write the column, whereas, on social media, you provide your content in exchange for the chance to have it distributed by the platform. As a matter of black-letter First Amendment constitutional law, I am in this column exercising my free-speech rights and so is its publisher. That means the US government could not censor this column without violating my First Amendment rights and the publishers. Similarly, the US government could not censor your speech on social media without violating your First Amendment rights and the platforms. Note that the platforms First Amendment right to curate and publish your content was established last June by the US Supreme Court in the landmark Moody vs NetChoice case. So, when MAGA folks claim that X has violated their free speech rights by taking away their ability to monetize their content, they arent using the concept of free speech in a constitutionally accurate way. They dont have a constitutional right to free speech that they can exercise against Musk or X. The platform can choose to de-platform them, and they couldnt invoke the First Amendment to get back on the platform. Indeed, if the government tried to say that X had to re-platform them, that effort would violate Xs First Amendment rights under the NetChoice decision. The MAGA users can plausibly say to Musk that by taking away their ability to monetize their content, he is violating a non-legally binding commitment he made to allow users to express any point of view on the platform with censorship. To the extent that Musk promised that sort of non-legal, non-constitutional free speech on X, hes broken the rules. Musk, for his part, has no leg to stand on when he says that the First Amendments protection is for free speech, not paid speech ffs." If X were the government (which it isnt) and the First Amendment applied to it (which it doesnt), the government would not be allowed to punish some speakers by taking away an opportunity like monetizationbased on the speakers point of view. Imposing such a punishment would count as an unconstitutional condition on free speech. It certainly would violate the First Amendment, ffs" (as Musk would say). Put another way, if Musk were serious about voluntarily applying First Amendment principles on X, he would not demonetize speakers based on not liking what they say. Of course, Musk is not applying First Amendment free speech principles to his platform. If he wants to allow diverse viewpoints on X, thats fineand its his First Amendment right as the owner of X. But he hasnt committed to following the same highly restrictive rules that would apply to him if he were the government. The upshot is that if we want to be honest and accurate, we should recognize that free speech on social media means the First Amendment right of users and the platform to speak jointly and without government censorship. Beyond that, platforms that want to allow for a wide range of perspectives should be clear about what rules they use to moderate speech. Otherwise, we may forget how the new free speech really works in Americaand lose the very First Amendment rights that Americans hold dear. Bloomberg The new Reserve Bank of India governor, Sanjay Malhotra, in one of his last addresses as revenue secretary, quite rightly suggested that tax officials consider economys interests before revenues. If this golden rule is applied across the board, we will not have faced an embarrassment with the Swiss government over their withdrawal of our most favoured nation (MFN) status, because of our negligence. In October 2023, the Indian Supreme Court (SC) had decided in the Nestle matter that MFN treatment under Indias double tax avoidance agreements (DTAAs) cannot automatically extend to a country without an executive notification under Section 90 of the Income Tax (IT) Act. In December 2024, Switzerland decided to withdraw the MFN benefits it was unilaterally providing to Indian entities under an India-Switzerland DTAA, for lack of reciprocity. For more than a year, the Indian government knew about the SC judgement but did not act, presumably because it didnt want to give up a chance to collect higher taxes from Swiss entities. Unfortunately, as it happens, bilateral treaties operate on trust and mutual benefit. A country cannot hope to continue receiving benefits under a treaty without offering similar treatment to its counterparties. The MFN withdrawal by Switzerland is likely to hit Indian companies operating in Switzerland, leaving them worse off against their competitors from other countries that continue to enjoy such benefits. Not only did the government not make any effort to issue a notification extending MFN benefits to Switzerland, it had vehemently argued before the SC against automatic applicability of the MFN clause. Never mind that the same government has negotiated the inclusion of an MFN clause in several tax agreements, and that notifications under Section 90 of the IT Act are typically made to enforce entire agreements and not their specific provisions. By arguing for specific notifications for specific provisions under tax treaties, the government opened a Pandoras Box. While India may hope to benefit from MFN or similar provisions in its bilateral treaties, which could be contingent upon some conditions being fulfilled, bureaucratic protocols such as IT Act notificationin addition to hard fought conditions under these agreements can create unnecessary complications and delay the process of claiming treaty benefits. The confusion could have been cleared by a clarificatory amendment to Section 90. Such inconsistent positions and opportunistic interpretations do not go unnoticed internationally. They create uncertainty among countries that have or are exploring treaties with India and prompt companies to revisit their investment plans and partnership discussions, thereby compromising Indias economic interests. Sadly, this is not end of the story. Under the Indo-Swiss DTAA, if other OECD countries receive better tax treatment than Switzerland in relation to withholding tax, it would also become eligible to receive such benefits from India. It pointed out that since Lithuania and Colombia were getting better treatment, when they were inducted into the OECD, it should also get similar treatment. Curiously, in the Nestle matter, the Indian government argued in the SC that since the other two countries were not part of the OECD at the time of their agreement with India, similar treatment couldnt be provided to Switzerland, which has been in the OECD for long. Going by the dates of countries membership of groupings to extend treaty benefits could be a self-goal for India. First, suppose India was offering preferential treatment to a country which was an OECD member (or other grouping) but hypothetically opts out later, would India continue to accord it (and other members) MFN treatment? Second, India is part of several regional groupings whose membership continues to evolve. Would it want to lose out on MFN benefits just because a recently inducted country signed a more beneficial treaty before its induction in the grouping? Third, Indian treaty negotiators presumably worked hard to incorporate MFN provisions. The idea is to attract foreign investments and obtain reciprocal benefits for Indian investors abroad. Would they have envisaged losing these benefits on a mere date technicality? Seems unlikely. While the Indian governments practice of taking contradictory positions on an issue has regrettably become a norm, the judiciarys acceptance of such arguments is much more worrisome. Over the years, the judiciary has followed the principles of consistent interpretation of domestic and international laws, while acknowledging their evolving nature. Without an explicit preference for domestic laws, both are expected to be interpreted consistently. Disregarding such well settled principles, the judiciary in the Nestle matter upheld an interpretation that favoured revenue over both the economys interest and international norms, thereby overturning years of jurisprudence. The Nestle decision and subsequent (in)actions indicate a collective failure of the Indian state. Inconsistent interpretations and the lack of efforts by the legislature, executive and judiciary to take corrective action signal the tacit approval of top decision makers. Such episodes can hurt Indias economic interests and create roadblocks in pursuit of Viksit Bharat. Government alertness on such issues is important. The authors are, respectively, vice president of Pune International Centre and secretary general of CUTS International. Amol Kulkarni of CUTS contributed to this article. Elon Musk is throwing grenades into Europes political mainstream over issues ranging from immigration to free speech, creating a dilemma for governments as they try to respond to the tech billionaire and key adviser to the incoming Trump administration. In recent days and weeks, Musk has weighed in with a series of incendiary social-media posts on European politics, including supporting a far-right party ahead of an election in Germany, accusing the British prime minister of being complicit in rape, denouncing judges in Italy and slamming the European Commission. The stream of posts from the worlds richest man has morphed into a diplomatic headache and caught several mainstream European political parties on the back foot. Just weeks ahead of Donald Trumps inauguration, many European leaders have been wary of publicly calling out Musk, worried it would damage relations with Trump and simply prod the tech entrepreneur to double down on his attacks. But the repeated posts to his 211 million followers on X, the social-media platform he owns, are now setting the news agenda in several of those countries, making it impossible to ignore. Europes unpopular leaders worry that Musk could use X to mobilize disenchanted voters at a time when weak economic growth has eroded trust in mainstream politics and stoked political instability. Ten years ago if someone had told us the owner of one of the worlds biggest social-media companies would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany, who would have imagined that?" French President Emmanuel Macron told ambassadors on Monday. Musks bare-knuckle approach to foreign affairs highlights the challenge that U.S. allies face in navigating the next Trump presidency. The last time Trump was in the White House, foreign governments had to deal with his unpredictable late-night social media statements. Now they also have to digest Musks. Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer spent a large chunk of a press conference Monday that was supposed to focus on the countrys overstretched health system instead rebutting Musks posts about the prime ministers record in jailing child rapists during a previous stint as the U.K.s chief prosecutor over a decade ago. Starmer said he was not going to individualize this to Elon Musk or anyone else" but also spent several minutes defending his record and denouncing those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible." Ahead of Starmers press conference, Musk had pinned a message to the top of his X feed: America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." Starmer declined to comment on this. European politicians and business people opine on U.S. politics all the timeoften to criticize Trumpbut few have any influence on U.S. voters. Political strategists, however, fear Musk could tilt the playing field by wielding his X platform as a powerful tool to campaign for parties he backs. In Germany, some strategists and politicians worry Musks personal views could end up influencing a general election this February. Musk last year called German Chancellor Olaf Scholz a fool" and in recent weeks threw his weight behind Germanys far-right AfD party. He is hosting a live chat on X this week with AfD co-chair Alice Weidel and wrote an op-ed in a prominent German newspaper calling her party the last spark of hope for this country." View Full Image Alice Weidel is co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD), whose draft election platform calls for the country to leave the EU. Photo: Axel Schmidt/Reuters The AfD is further to the right than most other comparable antiestablishment, anti-immigration parties in Europe. Germanys domestic intelligence agency has classified some of the AfDs regional chapters as extremist organizations. The partys draft electoral platform says sanctions against Russia should be lifted, Germanys foreign and energy policy freed of American influences, and Germany should leave the EU. Some of the partys leaders have criticized Germanys culture of Holocaust remembrance. Musks endorsement is a welcome counterpoint to the negative campaign against us thats happening everyday in Germany" and could be a game-changer," said Leif-Erik Holm, a senior AfD lawmaker. Friedrich Merz, chairman of the center-right CDU and, according to polls, the most likely winner of the February vote, told German media that Musks intervention was intrusive and presumptuous," adding that I cannot remember a comparable case of interference in the election campaign of a friendly country in the history of Western democracies." Trumps former strategist Steve Bannon tried to build a network of right-wing parties ahead of elections for the EU parliament back in 2019, with limited effect. Musk, by focusing on domestic European elections and armed with a social-media company, could be more successful, says Jose Ignacio Torreblanca, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, a think tank. He sees himself as a savior of U.S. democracy from the progressives," Torreblanca said. He thinks this should not stop at home and that it should continue in Europe." Still, there are hurdles. In Britain, for instance, only 26% of people have a positive view of Musk, the same level as Starmer, according to pollster YouGov, and average daily users of X has dropped from 10.3 million a day in May 2022 to 8.6 million in May 2024, according to the regulator Ofcom. Xs own figures show the average number of active users across the EU is down around 5 million between October 2023 and summer of 2024. The EU commission, the blocs executive branch, said on Monday that it was considering expanding an existing probe into X to include the livestream Musk is hosting with Germanys AfD. Youre free to express your views, but there are certain limits to that," commission spokesman Thomas Regnier told reporters on Monday. Musk has previously said he would challenge any EU findings against X in court. The EUs Digital Services Act allows the commission to issue fines of up to 6% of global revenue. Given that Musk oversees some six companies, including SpaceX and Tesla, and is also co-chair of a new U.S. Department of Government Efficiency, some European officials express astonishment that he has the bandwidth to lavish attention on their countries domestic affairs. In Germany, Daniel Tapp, Weidels spokesman, said the party had been in contact with Musks staff as far back as before the European election last summer after they requested documents about the AfD platform. The December endorsement, however, came as a surprise, he said. Britain has been a particular target for Musk. His X feed over the weekend was dominated by posts criticizing Starmer for not doing more to prosecute gangs made up mostly of Muslim men of Pakistani heritage who groomed and raped more than a thousand young girls in towns across Britain in a scandal that dates back to over a decade. Independent reviews criticized British police for turning a blind eye to the gangs, partly because they didnt believe the victims and partly because officers feared they would be accused of racism if they acted against the men from minority backgrounds. Starmer says he reopened several closed cases linked to the child grooming rings when he was chief prosecutor and overhauled the way such crimes were prosecuted. Musk also repeatedly called for the release of Tommy Robinson, a far-right activist currently in a British prison for contempt of court after repeating a false claim against a Syrian refugee. Musk fell out with Nigel Farage, the populist leader of the right-wing Reform party, over the weekend after Farage said he wouldnt support Robinson joining Reform. View Full Image Far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, is displayed on a screen at an October anti-immigration event in London. Photo: Chris J Ratcliffe/Reuters In contrast, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is one of the few Western European leaders whom Musk admires. The pair have met several times since Meloni won power in late 2022. The right-wing Italian leader is more attuned than most of her European peers with Musks opinions on immigration, falling birthrates and wokeism." Meloni, in an interview with newspaper Corriere della Sera published Friday, said that while she sometimes disagrees with Musk, it makes me laugh how people who until yesterday hailed Musk as a genius now depict him as a monster, just because he chose what is considered the wrong side of the barricades." Kim Mackrael and Marcus Walker contributed to this article. Write to Max Colchester at Max.Colchester@wsj.com and Bertrand Benoit at bertrand.benoit@wsj.com Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as the prime minister of Canada and leader of the Liberal Party on Monday. What next for Canada? And will the development bring a decisive shift in India-Canada relations? Mint explains: What next after Trudeaus resignation? With Canadas Parliament prorogued until March, the oppositions effort to bring a no-confidence motion stands stalled. Trudeaus Liberal Party, in all likelihood, would like to elect a new leader before March, but the process can take longer. Any incumbent leader will have a tough call as the government needs the backing of 338 members of Parliament in a no-confidence vote. The Liberals are 17 members short. The Left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP) has declined to offer support. If the government loses the confidence motion, it is expected to resign or seek the dissolution of Parliament, triggering a federal election. Why were India-Canada relations strained under Trudeau? India-Canada relations hit rock bottom last year over the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. Canada claimed that it had credible evidence that Indian agents were behind the killing of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. India vehemently denied the charge, calling it motivated and preposterous. While Trudeau put India-Canada relations on a diplomatic hot plate, the move also indicated his last-ditch and desperate attempt, amid declining popularity, to pander to the Sikh diaspora in the country, many of whom have been supporters of the Liberal Party. Who could lead the Liberal Party? Trudeaus resignation means the Liberal Party has to choose a new leader, ideally within two months. Prominent Liberal names doing the rounds as his replacement include the former finance minister Chrystia Freeland, transport minister Anita Anand, and formal central banker Mark Carney. Even if the Liberal Party brings about a leadership transition, it might not result in a win given the growing double-digit popularity of the Conservative Party and its leader, Pierre Poilievre. What does Trudeaus resignation mean for Canada on the global stage? The world will closely watch how Canadas new leadership navigates its role on the international front on three important counts. One, how they respond to US president-elect Donald Trumps tariff threats. Two, Canadas position on climate financing and clean energy push. And three, a decline of Liberal politics in Canada might signal the rise of populist politics tinged in anti-immigration measures, withdrawal from global environmental sustainability measures, and trade cooperationwhich, in many ways, might be another blow to a liberal world order. What will all these mean for India-Canada relations? India will closely watch the transitions, both in terms of the Liberal Partys leadership and the likelihood of federal power transition to the Conservative Party. While Trudeau adopted a confrontational stance with India, a new leadership might need to re-think this approach. However, India needs to have a firm grip on reality: Poilievre, if elected to power, might continue to browbeat around polarizing nationalist fervour. Amid the India-Canada diplomatic row last year, Poilievre pulled out of a Diwali event and has not yet clearly outlined his position on India. (Shweta Singh is associate professor, Department of International Relations, South Asian University) The death of Theresa McGoldrick (nee Byrne), Dring, which took place peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024 in Mullingar Hospital, severs the last link with the Byrne family who ran the post office in Dring for many years until its closure and who provided postal services in the area. Theresa emigrated to England at a young age and worked for many years as a nurse where she met and married her husband Jim McGoldrick. After his passing, she returned to Ireland where she built a house in Dring opposite the family home where she lived for many years before moving to Our Ladys Manor Nursing Home where she lived until her passing. Theresa was predeceased by her husband Jim, her parents Conor and Mary, sisters Kay Denton, Mary Mimnagh, Nan Byrne, and Phyllis Byrne, and her brothers Conor, Vincent, and Joe. Also read: RIP: Six-year search for missing Strokestown man stood down as gardai issue tragic update She is survived by her sister-in-law Agnes, her nephews Joseph and Conor, Leicester, England, her neighbours and a large circle of friends to whom we extend our sympathy. Her Funeral Mass took place last Tuesday, December 31 in St Josephs Church, Purth, with interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Also read: Longford bids farewell to a very caring nurse who always warmed the coldest of hearts Local News By Chris Boyle Published: January 07 2025 New York City and Long Island Will Experience Feels-Like Temperatures of 1 to 14 degrees. Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take precautions as extreme cold temperatures and gusty winds this week will bring an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Very cold overnight temperatures can be expected across the state through Thursday with the coldest temperatures expected in the North Country. Overnight feels like temperatures of -30 to -20F are likely in the North Country with the Mohawk Valley, Capital Region, Central New York, Western New York, Finger Lakes and Southern Tier Regions expecting feels-like temperatures of -20F to 0F. New York City and Long Island Will experience feels-like temperatures of 1 to 14. As extreme cold temperatures move into our state over the coming days, I encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe, Governor Hochul said. These conditions pose an extraordinary risk to anyone who is exposed to the elements or is unable to adequately heat their home, and my administration is mobilizing State resources to help respond as needed. For most of the state, minimum temperatures normally range between 8 to 20F for this time of year, while the Adirondacks typically see temperatures slightly lower, ranging between 4 to 10F and the coastal regions generally experiencing slightly warmer temperatures ranging between 18 to 26F. Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect for parts of the North Country through Wednesday. Gusty winds could cause periods of blowing snow, low visibility and some power outages. Scattered snow showers are possible throughout the week in parts of the North Country, Central New York and Western New York Regions. A widespread 1-3 inches of snow is expected with highest accumulations in Central New York and the North Country where snowfall totals of up to ten inches are possible and higher accumulations possible in Western New York. Blustery, cold conditions combined with snowfall will increase the risk of blowing snow on roadways. Another winter storm is expected to pass near New York State this weekend with the potential to bring snow, gusty winds and some rain to portions of the state, mainly on Saturday. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY-Alert at alert.ny.gov, a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer. Home Energy Assistance Program The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can provide up to $996 in heating assistance to eligible households. HEAP benefits are also available to eligible homeowners and renters depending on their income levels, household size and how they heat their homes. A family of four may have a maximum gross monthly income of $6,390 or an annual gross income of $76,681 and still qualify for benefits. Eligible households can receive one Regular HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for up to two Emergency HEAP benefits if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. New Yorkers can apply at ny.gov/heat. Applications for assistance are also accepted at local departments of social services and can be submitted through the mail or in person. Additionally, older adults needing assistance with HEAP applications can contact their local office for the aging or contact the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871. Residents can apply for Emergency HEAP benefits by contacting their local HEAP contact. Code Blue Under state regulation, a Code Blue is automatically in effect whenever the temperature and wind chill equals less than 32 degrees. Local social services districts are legally required to take necessary steps to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that shelter hours are extended. Warming Centers Warming centers will be available in communities as needed and individuals are urged to contact their local governments to find one near them. Avoiding Frostbite and Hypothermia The New York State Department of Health advises New Yorkers to prevent serious injury and dangerous health complications that can result from colder weather and winter activities. Cold Weather tips from the Department of Health can be found here; additional tips for preventing frostbite and hypothermia can be found here; information on Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be found here; information on the proper use of generators can be found here; safe winter driving tips can be found here. Working in the Cold The New York State Department of Labor advises workers and employers to engage in extreme cold weather best practices such as: Limit outdoor work, provide frequent breaks in warm areas and schedule outdoor work during the warmest times of the day. Ensure access to clean drinking water. Stay hydrated with warm beverages and avoid drinking caffeine. Wear proper PPE, including at least three layers of clothing, gloves or mittens, thick socks, insulated footwear and a hat, hood or hard hat liner. More Information on best practices for working in cold weather can be found here. Agency Activities New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The Divisions Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts statewide and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely. New York State Department of Public Service New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair and restoration efforts across New York State. Agency staff will track utilities' work and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor the developing situation and weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is prepared to coordinate resource deployment of all available assets, including sawyers and first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow and high winds. DEC reminds those responsible for the removal and disposal of snow to follow best management practices to help prevent flooding and reduce the potential for pollutants like salt, sand, oils, trash and other debris from affecting water quality. Disposal of snow in local creeks and streams can create ice dams, which may cause flooding. Public and private snow removal operators should be aware of these safety issues during and after winter storms. Additional information is available at Division of Water Technical and Operational Guidance Series: Snow Disposal. Unpredictable winter weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and cold to ensure a safe winter experience. Snow depths range greatly throughout the Adirondacks, with the deepest snow at higher elevations in the High Peaks region and other mountains over 3,000 feet. Lower elevation trails have mixed conditions of snow, ice, slush and mud including many trails in the Catskill Mountains where the potential for icy trail conditions exists. While there is ice present on some waterways, DEC advises outdoor enthusiasts to review ice safety guidelines before heading out. Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails and trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information. Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS. Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings. An image published in the regime-run Hamshahri newspaper shows an Iranian air defense system and a Sayyad-3 missile. The regime in Tehran finds itself increasingly besieged by challenges, ranging from the faltering influence of its regional proxies to the prospect of an Israeli strike on its nuclear facilities, potentially bolstered by US support. In response, the Islamic Republic has devised a three-pronged strategy: boosting morale through a reinvigorated propaganda campaign, conducting extensive military drills to showcase readiness, and amplifying support for its remaining proxies. Propaganda as a tool of survival Confronted with a cascade of regional setbacks epitomized by the diminishing effectiveness of its proxies, Tehrans leadership has descended into a state of alarm. Ever mindful of its authoritarian imperative to project strength, the regime appears more perturbed by the erosion of its narrative than by the threat of direct military confrontation. Consequently, it has redoubled its domestic propaganda efforts. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei underscored the strategic importance of this messaging, proclaiming that the victory of one side is determined by its ability to convey its narrative. He urged state media operatives to adopt a doctrine of precision, persistence, and innovation. In alignment with these directives, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attributed Syrias destabilization to psychological factors and cautioned against allowing adversaries to sow instability and despair through media platforms. To fulfill Khameneis mandate, officials and state-controlled media outlets have intensified their dissemination of anti-Israel rhetoric. For example, Araghchi warned of an unprecedented escalation in conflict should Israel target Iranian assets. Meanwhile, an IRGC spokesperson declared that Israeli airspace is wide open and defenseless against Iranian attacks. The regimes social media accounts added to these threats by circulating ominous messages alluding to a potential third round of the True Promise operation, referencing the ballistic missile attacks Iran launched against Israel in April and October 2024. Military maneuvers: a show of force To display its military preparedness, the regime has conducted a series of large-scale drills involving both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the conventional army, Artesh. Key participants included the Artesh 41st Mobile Assault Brigade, the 35th Special Forces Brigade, and the IRGC Ground Forces Mirza Kuchak Khan Brigade, named after a Soviet-backed guerrilla fighter who operated in northern Iran during World War I. These exercises seemed aimed at countering threats in Syria and Iraq, particularly the Ankara-backed Hayat Tahrir al Sham in Syria and Kurdish separatist groups in western Iran and Iraqi Kurdistan. Simultaneously, the Khatam al Anbia Joint Air Defense Headquarters coordinated extensive air drills, signaling Tehrans anticipation of a potential Israeli airstrike on its nuclear sites. The exercises featured IRGC Aerospace Force-manufactured defense systems, including the Tabas, Raad, 3 Khordad, 9 Dey, and Dezful, which practiced intercepting bunker-buster bombs near the Natanz nuclear facilitya well-known hub of Irans suspected nuclear weaponization efforts. Escalation of proxy support Tehran has also escalated its backing of its two most resilient proxies: Iraqi Shia militias and Yemens Houthis. IRGC Quds Force commanders have actively engaged with the Popular Mobilization Forces in Iraq, discussing plans to restructure their command hierarchy and refine their operational objectives. Similarly, Houthi officials revealed that Iran has supplied them with resources sufficient to sustain their strikes on Israel and attacks on global shipping routes for years. Such actions are likely to provoke a decisive response from Washington. The impending return of the administration of US President Donald Trump, which originally designated the Houthis as a terrorist organization, portends a more aggressive stance against Irans proxies. Trump-era policies already included airstrikes on Houthi targets, and prominent Iraqi Shia figures aligned with Tehran are reportedly concerned about renewed US pressure on Baghdad to dismantle these militias. The lingering specter of Trumps 2020 drone strike that killed IRGC Quds Force Commander Qassem Soleimani and his Iraqi ally, Abu Mahdi al Muhandis, further amplifies these fears. The Israeli-American nexus against Irans nuclear ambitions The prospect of a Trump administration returning to power bodes ill for Irans nuclear ambitions. Tehrans escalating nuclear threat continues to alarm US lawmakers, and Trump previously entertained the possibility of airstrikes to dismantle its nuclear program. Unlike President Joe Bidens reluctance to strike Irans nuclear sites, Trumps rhetoric suggests a strong alignment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the shared imperative of countering the progress of Irans program. Janatan Sayeh is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies focused on Iranian domestic affairs and the Islamic Republics regional malign influence. The US launched a series of strikes against the Islamic States (IS) network in Iraq and Syria over the past week. The operations are part of the US militarys continuing effort to degrade the Islamic State and prevent it from filling the security vacuum left by the collapse of the Assad regime. US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the raids, which took place between December 30, 2024, and January 6, 2025, in a press release. In Iraq, US and partner forces, presumably the Iraqi military, battled the Islamic State for eight days in the Hamrin Mountains, a mountain ridge in northern Iraq that extends from Diyala to Salahaddin Province. US and allied forces targeted known ISIS [Islamic State] locations in the region. The Islamic State and its predecessor in Iraq, Al Qaeda in Iraq, have used the Hamrin Mountains as a safe haven and established training camps there over the past two decades. CENTCOM deployed various strike aircraft, including F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s, as Islamic State fighters routinely engaged the coalition forceslikely ground troops, though CENTCOM did not specify these details. One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different nations, but no American personnel were killed or wounded during the operation, CENTCOM noted. An undisclosed number of Islamic State fighters were killed during A-10 strikes on a cave where the terrorists holed up. In Syria, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by CENTCOM forces, captured an ISIS attack cell leader during a two-day operation near Deir el Zour, a city on the Euphrates River in the eastern part of the country. CENTCOM last struck the Islamic State in Deir el Zour Province on December 23, 2024, when it killed two Islamic State fighters and wounded another as they were moving a truckload of weapons [] in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians. Four days prior, US assets killed two Islamic State operatives in a precision airstrike in Deir el Zour, including Abu Yusif aka Mahmud, who was described as a leader of the group. CENTCOM has stepped up strikes against the Islamic State to prevent it from reemerging in the wake of the fall of Syrian dictator Bashar al Assads regime on December 7, 2024. The day after Assad fled the country, CENTCOM struck over 75 [Islamic State] targets using multiple US Air Force assets, including B-52s, F-15s, and A-10s. Nine days later, US assets targeted numerous known ISIS camps and operatives in Syria. The strikes were intended to disrupt, degrade, and defeat ISIS, preventing the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek opportunities to reconstitute in central Syria, CENTCOM stated. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Download Image: Web Institution hailed for outstanding efforts to increase nonpartisan student voter participation in the 2024 election. Lycoming College has been recognized by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge as a 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campuses for College Student Voting for outstanding efforts to increase nonpartisan student voter participation. Lycoming joins a group of 471 colleges and universities recognized by ALL IN for completing four core actions: Participating in the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge Sharing 2022 NSLVE Reports with campus voting data with ALL IN Developing and submitting a 2024 democratic engagement action plan with ALL IN Having a current signatory to ALL INs Higher Education Presidents Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation Led by Lycoming instructor Angela Kurtz, Ph.D., students enrolled in a course entitled Civic Engagement undertook a number of initiatives to encourage voter participation among their classmates this election cycle. A National Voter Registration Day Drive resulted in 53 new Pennsylvania voter registrations. resulted in 53 new Pennsylvania voter registrations. Weekly voter registration tables encouraged registration up until the Oct. 21 deadline registered approximately 85 students total to vote in Pennsylvania this election cycle. encouraged registration up until the Oct. 21 deadline registered approximately 85 students total to vote in Pennsylvania this election cycle. Flyer drops in the dorms included polling information specific to Lycoming students. in the dorms included polling information specific to Lycoming students. An Election Day event outdoors encouraged students to vote and to celebrate with free food and stickers after they cast their ballots. As a liberal arts and sciences campus, Lycoming College places a high value on the democratic process, said Kurtz. This fall we facilitated a high on-campus voter turnout through a number of student designed and driven activities that empowered our college community to engage in civil public discourse, raising their interest in and appreciation for the importance of voting. The All In Voter Challenge played a key role in boosting my civic and social engagement on campus. It gave me the opportunity to meet new students and have meaningful conversations with peers I had never interacted with before, said Tiaura Robinson, a Lycoming College senior psychology major and sociology minor from Philadelphia. I had never fully considered the many different situations that call for civic engagement until this semester. There are countless ways to make a positive impact, and this course has truly broadened my perspective. Through the lessons I've learned, I've developed a deep interest in addressing the inequalities within the criminal justice system. As I prepare to graduate this upcoming spring, I am committed to dedicating my spare time to a nonprofit organization that aligns with my values and works toward the causes I am passionate about. The research is clear: colleges and universities that make intentional efforts to increase nonpartisan democratic engagement have higher campus voter registration and voter turnout rates. This year we saw more colleges than ever before step up their efforts to ensure that their students were registered and ready to make their voices heard at the ballot box, said Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, executive director of the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. These Most Engaged Campuses are setting the standard for nonpartisan civic engagement work for colleges and universities across the country. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge empowers colleges and universities to achieve excellence in nonpartisan student democratic engagement. Campuses that join the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge complete a set of action items, with the support of ALL IN staff, to institutionalize nonpartisan civic learning and voter participation on their campus. The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge currently engages 10.8 million students from more than 1,075 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Campuses can join the ALL IN Challenge here. ABOUT ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge: ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge (ALL IN) empowers colleges and universities to achieve excellence in nonpartisan student democratic engagement. Through an intentionally-designed program that provides structure, support, and recognition, ALL IN works to improve civic learning, political engagement, and voter participation on more than 1,075 campuses nationwide. ALL IN believes higher education should play a role in developing an active and informed citizenry by educating students, motivating them to engage in American democracy, and instilling the value of lifelong participation. ALL IN is an initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Learn more here. King Charles III, who has been battling health challenges, was recently seen in a rare emotional state during a church visit, reigniting rumors about his potential abdication. The monarch's appearance has fueled concerns about the future of the British monarchy, as insiders hint at the possibility of a transition of power to Prince William. During a service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Norfolk, King Charles appeared visibly distressed while speaking with Reverend Paul Williams. Witnesses noted that the King, typically composed and cheerful at public events, was seen with his head in his hands during the conversation. "Charles was visibly emotional," an insider revealed to New Idea Magazine. "He had his head in his hands at one point, and the Reverend was obviously concerned. "Charles is generally very happy and positive when he attends Sunday service, so this was a real departure from the norm." This somber display has added to growing worries about the King's health and his ability to continue fulfilling his royal duties. Diagnosed with cancer last year, King Charles has been undergoing treatment while maintaining his responsibilities as monarch. However, palace insiders suggest the King's health is taking a toll on him, leading to whispers that his reign may be shorter than anticipated. "Charles' aides have been taking his reign day by day for months now," a palace source revealed. "He is determined to serve as long as he possibly can, but he is not a young man, and his cancer treatment is, naturally, taking its toll." Advisors close to the King are reportedly preparing for the possibility of a transition of power. Discussions have focused on how best to handle the future of the monarchy should King Charles decide to step down. Preparing for the Future If King Charles does abdicate, his son and heir, Prince William, is seen as a ready and capable successor. The Prince of Wales has long been involved in royal duties and has garnered public support, making him a strong candidate to take the throne. The King's recent public display has underscored the weight of his role and the pressures of balancing his health with his responsibilities. While abdication remains speculative, the preparations behind the scenes highlight the monarchy's commitment to continuity. As King Charles navigates the challenges of his health and the expectations of his position, the possibility of abdication brings both uncertainty and hope for a smooth transition. For now, he continues to fulfill his duties, but his emotional church appearance serves as a poignant reminder of the human side of the crown. The coming months will be crucial in determining the next steps for King Charles and the British monarchy, leaving the world to watch closely as this historic chapter unfolds. The Celtics could be shorthanded for their matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday after two players were late additions to the teams injury report. The team announced ahead of shootaround on Tuesday morning that Derrick White and Jordan Walsh were now both questionable for Tuesday night due to a non-COVID illness. Nobody was listed on the Celtics original injury report on Monday ahead of their road tilt at Ball Arena. White has been one of the most reliable members of the Celtics roster this year, appearing in a team-high 35 games so far. Hes averaging a career-high 17.1 points per game over 34.3 minutes per contest. Walsh has seen regular rotation minutes as well in recent weeks but did not appear in Sundays loss to the Thunder when the team had its full roster available for just the second time all season. Aaron Gordon remains out for Denver with a calf sprain that has sidelined him since a Christmas Day loss against the Suns. The Nuggets have gone 4-2 since hes been out. If White is unavailable, it would create an interesting lineup decision for Joe Mazzulla. Traditionally, Mazzulla has inserted Al Horford into the starting five whenever a player isnt available. However, the Nuggets have been starting three guards with Gordon sidelined in Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray and Christian Braun. If Horford and Kristaps Porzingis were to start together, that would force one to guard Michael Porter Jr. or one of Denvers guards. On the flip side, Boston would have a big size advantage at multiple positions in that scenario offensively. Mazzulla could also turn to Sam Hauser if he wanted to keep Horford in a reserve role if White isnt able to play. The Celtics will be looking to close out their four-game road trip with a 3-1 record if they can pull off the win in Denver. The two teams will tip off at 10 p.m. in a nationally televised matchup on TNT at Ball Arena. People now have more time to eat at Acapulcos Mexican Family Restaurant & Cantina in Quincy before it closes after 18 years. The restaurant, which was originally slated to close at the end of 2024, will remain open until Jan. 12, according to a Facebook post. Were happy to announce that weve been given a little more time, the post reads. If you havent had a chance to stop by yet, or if youd like to visit one last time, wed love to see you before we officially close our current Quincy location, the restaurant wrote. Thank you again for being a part of this chapter with us. Its been an honor to be a part of this community, and well carry these memories with us forever. Acapulcos first revealed that it would be closing its Quincy restaurant in December. While this marks the end of an era for us at this location, we are actively seeking a new home within Quincy in hopes of continuing to serve our beloved community, the restaurant wrote in a Facebook post on Dec. 18. We will truly miss being at the heart of such a wonderful community, the post continued. Thank you again for being such an important part of our journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and we hope to see you soon. Acapulcos is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine with offerings such as quesadillas, chimichangas, enchiladas, burritos, tacos, fajitas and more. Acapulcos first opened in Sudbury in 2001, according to the restaurants website. The chain later added locations in Beverly, Franklin, Milford, Norwood and Quincy with the latter opening in 2006. Acapulcos also has locations in Enfield and Stratford, Connecticut. The address for the Quincy Acapulcos is 1388 Hancock St. Customers are encouraged to eat at the restaurant before it closes. A stepfather and stepson, both of whom are from Charlestown, were arraigned in court Friday on larceny and conspiracy charges after prosecutors said they staged an armed robbery at a CAVA restaurant in Boston in December. Nickolas Lao, 19, was charged with larceny over $1,200 and conspiracy, the Suffolk County district attorney said. He was held on $5,000 bail with GPS monitoring upon his release. Scott Douglas, 37, was charged with larceny over $1,200, conspiracy, and false reporting of a crime, the district attorney said. He was held on $10,000 bail with GPS monitoring upon his release. Both men will return to court on Jan. 31 for their respective pre-trial hearings, the district attorney said. An armed robbery happened at a CAVA restaurant at 125 Summer St. in Boston on Dec. 29, 2024, around 10:34 p.m., the district attorney said. Douglas told the police he was robbed at gunpoint while he was closing the restaurant for the night, the district attorney said. He said 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 unidentified man, the district attorney said. Douglas said the man led him to the safe in the back of the CAVA restaurant, the district attorney said. He gave the man all the money in the drawers, a black deposit bag full of cash and rolls of coins from the safe. The money totaled around $1,800. Douglas said the man ordered him to face away as he ran out of the store. Douglas gave officers a description of the suspect, the district attorney said. Officers saw a completely different man enter the restaurant when they were reviewing video footage of the incident. The man entered the restaurant after Douglas opened the door for him. Around 10:31 p.m., the man left the restaurant and went toward the MBTA Chinatown Station at Washington and Boylston streets, the district attorney said. The suspect was the only other person in the restaurant or near the area at the time of the robbery. Douglas gave statements that were inconsistent with his initial statement to police and video footage from inside the CAVA restaurant, the district attorney said. Officers identified the man as Lao, the district attorney said. Investigators found that Lao and Douglas were listed under the same address in Charlestown. Lao is the son of Douglas' ex-wife, with whom Douglas still lives. Police got arrest warrants for both men. More than three dozen cats living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions were rescued on Jan. 2 from a Massachusetts home and now many of them are looking for new homes. The cats, 40 in total, were rescued by the MSPCA-Angell and local animal control in Norfolk County, according to the MSPCA-Angell in a news release which did not name the specific town. The MSPCA took in 30 of the adult domestic shorthair cats to recuperate them to full health, while animal control took the other 10. The group added the cats it took in are split between its properties at Nevins Farm in Methuen and the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem. The cats are pretty thin, so theyre on refeeding plans to get them to a healthier weight, said Mike Keiley, the MSPCA-Angell vice president of its animal protection division, in a statement. Keiley added that some of the cats require treatment for upper respiratory infections, which he said is common when there are a lot of cats living in one home. The MSPCA said its law enforcement division is not currently pursuing animal cruelty charges. Large scale situations like this can be tough, and, in some instances, are the results of hoarding disorders that can lead to large numbers of animals unexpectedly coming into care and overwhelming our systems, Keiley said. Read More: House cat died after eating pet food that tested positive for bird flu The influx of cats puts extraordinary strain on the MSPCAs resources, Keiley said, adding that despite the cats not needing serious medical intervention, the cost of their care will equal about $5,000. Those who wish to donate to the MSPCA to help offset these costs can do so on its website. For those who wish to adopt, many of the cats are available as of Jan. 7, with some needing more time to grow healthier. Interested adopters can see cats available online on the MSPCAs website and are asked to visit either the MSPCAs Nevins Farm location from 12-4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, or visit the Northeast Animal Shelter from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. during shelter open hours. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has ordered inspections of all state-run emergency shelters in response to the recent arrest of an undocumented migrant who was living at a Revere shelter site. The man is accused by authorities of crimes including illegal possession of an AR-15 and fentanyl trafficking. Its outrageous that this individual took advantage of our shelter system to engage in criminal activity, Healey said in a statement Monday. On Dec. 27, Revere police officers arrested 28-year-old Leonardo Sanchez on drug trafficking and gun charges at the Quality Inn hotel on Morris Street in Revere, which is currently being used as an emergency shelter site, according to the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office. Officers recovered nearly 5,000 grams of suspected fentanyl and an AR-15 from Sanchez. Sanchez is now facing 11 counts, including illegal assault weapon possession, illegal high-capacity magazine possession and fentanyl trafficking. Revere police arrested an undocumented immigrant at a state-run emergency shelter in Revere late last month. They recovered nearly 5,000 grams of fentanyl and an AR-15 from him, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office.Revere Police Department After Sanchezs arrest, Revere police contacted Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to help identify him, and ICE identified him as Sanchez a Dominican national, ICE said in a press release last week. ICE also determined that he unlawfully entered the U.S. sometime in the last year, but they arent sure where or when. In response to Sanchezs arrest, Healey has ordered an inspection of all the states current shelter sites, beginning with the Quality Inn, she said in the statement. Shes also ordered state officials to review the shelter systems intake processes and determine whether additional steps should be taken to prevent future criminal activity at the shelters. Even so, in her Monday statement, the governor characterized the incident as the result of federal officials repeated refusal to pass border security bill. This [incident] 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. The people of Massachusetts should not continue to have to deal with the impacts of federal inaction, the statement reads. Historically, Healeys own party has been responsible for stopping Congress from passing such legislation, with democratic legislators refusing to pass a reform bill that didnt include expanded pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. But in recent years, Democratic local leaders from across the country have called for their party to take a more hardline stance on immigration as influxes of migrants from the southern border have overwhelmed shelter systems in blue states and cities. The parties switch in roles became complete last February when Senate Republicans sunk a bipartisan border security bill after Present-Elect Donald Trump (then the likely GOP nominee) voiced strong opposition to the bill. The Quality Inn hotel on Morris Street in Revere, Massachusetts.Google Maps Court records indicate that Sanchez was arraigned on Dec. 30 in Chelsea District Court. A judge found him dangerous and ordered that he be held for at least 120 days. ICE has also lodged an immigration detainer against Sanchez, meaning that if and when local law enforcement authorities release him, ICE has asked those authorities to notify ICE prior to his release. This would allow ICE to take custody of Sanchez as soon as he leaves jail or prison. [Sanchez] has been accused of serious crimes, and ERO Boston takes its public safety mission very seriously which is why weve lodged an immigration detainer against him with Revere police, ICE Boston removal operations acting Director Patricia Hyde said in the press release. ... with the Revere Police Departments cooperation, we intend to take him into ICE custody upon his release. ICE routinely lodges detainers against migrants accused of certain crimes, including drug trafficking and weapons offenses, but local law enforcement agencies arent required by law to cooperate with detainers. One stipulation commonly included in sanctuary city policies is that local government agencies including law enforcement are barred from cooperating with ICE. And while Revere is not a sanctuary city Chelsea is. It is unclear if and when Sanchez would be released by local authorities. So far, the court has followed the typical prosecution process. But whether ICE ever gains custody of Sanchez and works to have him deported may depend on multiple factors, including the outcome of the criminal case against him and whose custody he finds himself in. Sanchez is set to return to court on Feb. 3 for a probable cause hearing. A New Hampshire elementary school closed Monday for an inspection after a bat was seen flying in the school. "As you may be aware, bats have been present in the Richards Elementary School building," Newport School District wrote on Facebook. Yesterday, one of the bats was observed flying inside the school. Ensuring the safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and we are taking this situation very seriously. The bats were first discovered after staff at Richards Elementary School said they werent feeling well, Newport School District superintendent Donna Magoon told WMUR. She then had an air quality test done in the building. So, Im hearing theres no type of mold or anything in our air, so what else could it be, Magoon told the TV station. Thats when they discovered hundreds of bats hibernating in the school. Last week, one of the bats began flying in the school. The school then closed on Monday for an inspection. "The bats have been finding their way into the occupied area of the building through small holes in ceiling tiles and other gaps around pipes," the school district said on Facebook. Today, our facilities team worked diligently to seal all the holes/gaps in the ceiling tiles and any openings around pipes in the areas of concern. But its not easy to get rid of the bats. All of New Hampshires bat species are listed as endangered, threatened, or as a species of special concern. The school districts facilities team sealed all holes and gaps in the ceiling tiles and any openings around pipes. Then in March, the school district plans to work with the state to start the bat eviction process, which involves sealing off their entry points and installing a one-way exit door to allow them to leave without re-entry, the school district said. The school is expected to reopen Tuesday. Please rest assured that the health and safety of our staff and students remain my top priority. I will always err on the side of caution to ensure a safe learning environment, Magoon wrote. Indian telcos Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea have reportedly sold their stakes in Wi-Fi joint venture Firefly Networks to infrastructure provider iBus for INR90 million (US$1.04 million), after almost two years of looking for a buyer. According to ETTelecom, Airtel said in a regulatory filing Monday that it had sold its 50% stake in Firefly to iBUS for INR45 million. In a separate filing, Vodafone Idea said it had sold its 50% stake for the same amount. Both telcos said the deal would be concluded within 30 days. Firefly provides carrier-neutral Wi-Fi infrastructure for clients such as educational institutes, hospitals, malls, cafes, markets, transit points and corporate parks. Airtel and Vodafone Idea formed Firefly in 2015, but have been looking to sell the firm since 2023. According to the report, Firefly contributed just 0.0065% to Airtels turnover in FY 2024, whilst also contributing INR55 million to Vodafone Ideas losses in the same fiscal year. Airtel and Vodafone Idea almost managed to sell Firefly last year in a deal with Singaporean firm Manipura Digital Infrastructure OPCO for INR121 million, but the sale was called off after failing to receive regulatory approval, the report said. iBus which includes the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and the World Banks International Finance Corporation (IFC) among its backers offers in-building and last-mile connectivity solutions. The firm intends to boost its position in that space and expand into emerging sectors like IoT, the report said. The U.S Department of State has updated two travel notices for popular Central American tourist destinations. Travel advisories for Guatemala and Belize were issued in late December due to violent crime, according to the U.S Department of State. Guatemala remains under a level 3 reconsider travel alert, which is the second-highest warning. Belize is under a level 2 exercise increased caution category. Details on Guatemala advisory: Level 3, Reconsider Travel Those who plan to visit Guatemala are urged to reconsider, as several areas of the country have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence, the State Department warns. Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates, the department said. And while tourists are not usually targeted, they can still become victims of opportunistic crimes, according to the State Department. Areas of the country under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory include the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City and Villa Nueva. People can still visit popular places such as Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlan and the Pacific coast areas in Santa Rosa and Escuintla. Details on Belize advisory: Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution Travelers with plans to visit Belize should take increased caution due to crime and note that some areas of the country have an increased risk for violent crimes. The State Department warns travelers that violent crimes including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies and murder are common in Belize, even in broad daylight and in tourist areas. A significant portion of these crimes are gang related and most crimes go unresolved or unprosecuted by local police, as they lack the resources and training to respond effectively. The State Department strongly encourages travelers to be especially cautious when traveling to the south side of Belize City. People traveling to Belize are advised to: Meta announced Tuesday morning its eliminating its third-party fact-checking program and replacing it with a Community Notes model, similar to X, the app formerly known as Twitter. In 2016, Meta launched a third-party fact-checking program that used independent experts to give people more information about the posts they were seeing online so they could make better judgments about the content they were consuming. But, Meta said, too much of its fact-checked content were posts that people would deem as legitimate political speech and debate. Our system then attached real consequences in the form of intrusive labels and reduced distribution, Meta said in a statement. A program intended to inform too often became a tool to censor. Community Notes will be written by contributing users just like on X, according to Meta. The notes must be agreed upon by people with a range of perspectives to reduce bias ratings. Meta plans to phase in the Community Notes program in the United States first over the next few months, improving the feature throughout the year. As the social media company makes this transition, it said it will eliminate its fact-checking control, stop demoting fact-checked content and use less obtrusive methods that shows there is additional information regarding certain posts. Meta said it is also changing its content policy by removing restrictions on topics such as immigration, gender identity and gender. Its not right that things can be said on TV or the floor of Congress, but not on our platforms, Meta said. These policy changes may take a few weeks to be fully implemented. Its also going to focus its automated systems on targeting illegal violations such as terrorism, child sexual exploitation, drugs, fraud and scams. For less serious violations, Meta will rely on people to report those. Meta also said it will bring back more political content to users' feeds. United States District Attorney Joshua S. Levy announced he will step down as U.S. attorney for the District of Massachusetts later this month. Serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts has truly been the highlight of my career, said Levy in a statement. Were just a few days into the new year, but 2025 is already shaping up to be a big year for politics in Massachusetts. From Beacon Hill to Boston City Hall and all points between, elected officials and the people who keep track of them will have plenty on their plates for the next 365 days. So without further ado, here are five big storylines in Massachusetts politics for 2025. Mayor Michelle Wu speaks at a press conference announcing the Boston Acquisition Fund to preserve affordable housing. (Trea Lavery/MassLive)Trea Lavery/MassLive Boston Mayor Michelle Wus reelection campaign Its been nearly 76 years since Boston voters issued walking papers for an incumbent city mayor. And Mayor Michelle Wu will look to keep that streak alive in 2025 as she seeks a second term. But first, shell have to welcome City Halls newest arrival. The Democrat is set to give birth to a baby girl, her third child, this month. It may be a new experience for the city but not new for me. Ive had two kids while in office, and its certainly, at times a chaotic and messy juggle, but one that we see families across the city doing their very best to balance, Wu told WCVB-TV in Boston in July. Its widely known that city business leaders and others have been casting about for a challenger. Wu angered the citys business community with her ultimately unsuccessful effort to get commercial property owners to pony up a larger share of property taxes. Wus also been in a seemingly perpetual state of conflict with business owners in the citys North End over outdoor dining rules. So far, two bold-faced names have bubbled up as potential challengers: Josh Kraft, the son of deep-pocketed New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, has been mentioned for months as a potential 2025 candidate. Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn, a Wu critic in City Hall, was known to be mulling a run. But the former council president and son of former city Mayor Ray Flynn is so far noncommittal about a bid, The Boston Herald reported. Whether its Flynn or Kraft or someone else who decides to throw their hat into the ring, theyll face the challenge of both history and tradition. Thats because its nearly impossible to knock off a sitting incumbent without an ironclad why that needs to happen. Throw in Wus significant campaign war chest she was sitting on more than $1.6 million as of early December and that challenge becomes all that much harder. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey reflects on 2024 and the challenges of 2025 during an interview at her Ceremonial Office at the State House in Boston, Mass., on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024 (MassLive/John L. Micek).John L. Micek Adding to the political drama, Democratic Gov. Maura Healey also is expected to make a call about her political future sometime this year. The Arlington Democrat is up for reelection in 2026. And so far, shes keeping her plans to herself. Im going to answer that at the appropriate time. I love my job. I love the opportunity to serve, Healey told MassLive in a year-end interview. Theres a lot were working on. Theres a lot more to do. But Ill make announcements about that later in the year. Voters could get a sneak peek at Healeys agenda when she delivers her annual State of the Commonwealth address to a joint session of the state House and Senate on Jan. 16. As Politico reports, Healey will rehash her accomplishments of the last two years, and set the table for the months ahead. Massachusetts Republicans, emboldened by legislative gains they made in last Novembers elections, are sure to want to field a strong candidate. But who will come off the bench? Mike Kennealy, a former aide to Gov. Charlie Baker, is said to be seriously considering a run for the states top spot, according to published reports. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)AP The Trump Factor Blue state leaders, including Healey, are bracing for the second coming of President-elect Donald Trump, whose 2024 win was certified by a joint session of Congress on Monday, with notably less hubbub than four years ago. With his vows to engage in mass deportations and to possibly scrap the U.S. Department of Education, the policies of the incoming Republican administration stand to impact the state in ways both large and small. California Gov. Gavin Newsom is marshaling his fellow Democratic governors nationwide to resist Trumps policies. And last year, Healey tried to sound both conciliatory and defiant in the wake of Trumps win over Vice President Kamala Harris. The Bay State is a place, and will be a place, where we care about each other, and we look after one another, the Democratic governor said during a news conference. So whoever you are, whoever you voted for, know that were going to continue to work together and move forward. But ... People will look to us to lead, and thats what I, the lieutenant governor, and our entire administration are ready to do, Healey continued. Were going to do it with all of our residents. And were going to do it by staying true to things that we care about. And were going to do it by continuing to push forward on the things that make Massachusetts so great, she said. Speaking to MassLive last month, Healey declined to discuss hypotheticals if Massachusetts National Guard forces were federalized and required to participate in any mass deportation efforts in the Bay State. Riders board the MBTA Red Line at the JFK/UMass stop in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood. (Will Katcher/MassLive).Will Katcher/MassLive The MBTAs finances The nations oldest subway system ended 2024 by becoming slow zone-free for the first time in years. And the trains are running measurably faster as a result. But those months of extensive and still ongoing repairs are a metaphoric speed bump compared to the serious financial challenges facing the T as 2025 dawns. The agency will face a more than $600 million deficit in the coming fiscal year, according to Commonwealth Beacon. And a report by a transportation funding task force that was supposed to address the funding crunch is now late. The state did double its operational support for the T in the fiscal year that started July 1. But that didnt address larger, structural funding issues at the agency. The projected deficit amounts to just about a quarter of the Ts entire operating budget, according to an analysis by StreetsBlogMass. The agency needs to close the funding gap to avert massive service cuts this year. Left unaddressed, the shortfall could climb to as much as $1 billion by the end of the decade, that same analysis indicated. Healey has lauded the work done by T General Manager Phillip Eng and his team. But she also has said that a robust mass transit agency is key to addressing the states housing crunch. A suitcase outside of the Family Welcome Center in Quincy.Irene Rotondo The shelter crisis continues While the state will face new challenges in 2025, some of them, such as the states ongoing shelter crisis, are carryovers from 2024. Last month, as it sought to rein in costs that run to about $1 billion a year, the Healey administration announced a series of new rules, including a move to eventually phase out costly hotel and motel stays for families staying in the states emergency shelter system, MassLive previously reported. The administration also plans to seek a legislative change to boost rental assistance for needy families, create a reserve account for shelter expenses, and further shorten the length of stay in traditional shelter settings while extending stays in overflow sites, State House News Service reported. Weve taken significant action to rein in its growth, and weve seen tangible results, Healey said in a statement last month. Starting last month, families who enter the shelter system will be assessed according to their risk and need and will be placed in its Rapid Shelter Track or its Bridge Shelter Track. Stays in the former will last around 30 days, while stays in the latter will conclude in six months, pending approval by the state Legislature. Right now, about half of the families staying in the system are permanent Massachusetts residents, while the others are new arrivals who have entered the country legally. A for sale sign stands outside a residence (AP Photo). AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh Whats next for housing? Last year, state lawmakers approved, and Healey signed, a $5.1 billion bond bill aimed at taming the states housing crisis. The Democratic governor told MassLive in December that the bill should start paying dividends in 2025. But in the near term, some pretty significant challenges remain. Faced with a scarcity of properties, the median sales price for a single-family home in Massachusetts rose by 3.2%, to $650,000, in August, according to an analysis by Norada Real Estate Investments. That number was even higher in Boston, where the median listing price topped out at $1.04 million in November, according to Realtor.com. Thats more than double the national median of $416,800 in November. And that holds true for renters as well, with prices expected to increase 3.75% to 6.75% in what is already the most expensive rental market in the country, according to Boston.com. In terms of actually getting housing done, were already seeing the benefits of it, Healey told MassLive. In fact, it started with my tax cut bill. Because a year ago, with that tax cut bill, I proposed we give tax credits to developers to build more affordable housing in Gateway Cities. Do you know that in just one year since I signed that bill, the number of units has grown six times under that program? Weve gone from building about 200 units a year to now over 1,300 units, and thats going to grow. As for rents? Theyll come down when theres more supply, Healey said. Drama under the Golden Dome Democrats who control both sides of the State House held onto their supermajorities after last Novembers general election. And as the new legislative session kicked off last week, senior legislative leaders, buffeted by criticism over their performance in 2024, were promising to change their ways and take steps to make a famously opaque institution a little more transparent. Auditor Diana DiZoglio (left) hosts a press conference on Dec. 4, 2024 alongside an excerpt from the Massachusetts Constitution she says requires a new ballot law to take effect on Dec. 5, 2024. (SAM DRYSDALE / STATE HOUSE NEWS SERVICE)State House News Service Lawmakers will face their first big test as a new law, approved by the voters, that took effect last week, gives state Auditor Diana DiZoglio the authority to audit her former colleagues in the Legislature. Legislative leaders have so far been resistant, arguing that the separation of powers in the state Constitution bars the Methuen Democrat from taking such a step. DiZoglio, a former state senator and onetime legislative aide, has been upping the pressure on lawmakers to comply with the will of the voters. If you are not willing to accept an audit which is there to help to identify areas for improvement, thats problematic because what do you want to find out? DiZoglio told Spectrum News in Worcester. Areas where you can do better to better serve your constituents? What dont you want to know? If there are gaps in systems that are in your institution so that you can work to fill those gaps? What do you want to know? What employees are not getting trained appropriately. Political observers have said they believe DiZoglio is angling for a ruling from the states Supreme Judicial Court to settle the matter once and for all. At the tail end of 2024, such a court fight appeared more and more likely. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey appeared to open the door on Tuesday to scrapping brokers fees, which can add thousands of dollars to the cost of renting an apartment in what is already one of the most expensive rental markets in the country. I think they should be abolished, the Arlington Democrat said during an appearance on WGBH-FMs Boston Public Radio on Tuesday. I think they should just go away, Healey continued. I totally support that, support taking action to make that happen. Massachusetts law does not allow landlords to charge new tenants anything more than the first and last months rent, a security deposit of up to one months rent, and the purchase of a lock and key. By law, brokers are required to disclose in writing the fee amount, when and how it must be paid, and by whom, the first time they meet with a prospective tenant, MassLive previously reported. Still, the greater Boston area remains one of the few markets in the country where brokers fees, usually the equivalent to a months rent, remain a fact of life for apartment-seekers. Last fall, New Yorks City Council made nationwide headlines when it voted overwhelmingly to scrap the fees that landlords pay to brokers to show apartments for them. That immediately sparked speculation on whether Massachusetts, and particularly Boston, might follow suit. In a statement last fall, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also appeared open to a discussion. "Boston is now the only major American city where tenants can be forced to pay a brokers fee, often thousands of dollars, Wu said at the time, according to GBH News. As we confront the housing crisis, we must examine every opportunity to make Boston more affordable and keep families in our city. Last month, Boston City Councilor Liz Breadon and Council President Ruthzee Louijeune introduced a proposal that would require any broker fees in the city to be paid by the party who contracted with a real estate broker, effectively prohibiting landlords from passing those costs onto their tenants, State House News Service reported. That bill would require legislative authorization. And if the past is prologue, it might not be welcomed on Beacon Hill. Last year, the states influential real estate industry successfully kept a ban on the fees from being included in a landmark $5.16 billion housing bond bill. Speaking to WGBH on Tuesday, Healey framed the debate as one of affordability, slotting it into what she said were her administrations efforts to bring costs down for state residents. I recognize that, you know, housing costs are high, and weve got to do everything we can to drive costs down, Healey said. I think its urgent that the U.S. changes course and starts negotiating an end to the Ukraine war. Continued escalation on the part of the U.S. and NATO like allowing Ukraine to keep firing our long-range missiles (ATACMS) deep into Russia could lead to a direct confrontation with Russia. That could easily lead to nuclear war, a catastrophe that would affect the whole world. SPRINGFIELD After being reelected to serve as City Council president on his birthday, Michael Fenton called for members to treat each other and the people they represent with respect. In its organizational meeting on Monday, the council set a record by electing Fenton for the fifth time as president. Fenton served in the role last year and for three years previously between 2014 and 2016. He has represented Ward 2 since 2010. BOSTON The state is awarding $8 million to early college programs so more high school students can take free college classes for credit. Westfield State University nursing students listen to their instructor during a class Jan. 19, 2023. (Don Treeger / The Republican, File) The money will go to public schools and their higher education partners as they design new early college programs and expand existing ones. It will provide for 2,300 more classroom seats, and boost staffing, recruitment and professional development. THE incoming government is being urged to grasp the nettle of overcrowding at Mayo University Hospital by creating a scheme that encourages GPs to practice in Mayo. Trolley watch figures from the Irish Nurse and Midwives Association (INMO) show that 18 patients have been left without a bed in MUH this morning (Tuesday, January 7). Independent Castlebar-based councillor Harry Barrett told The Mayo News that every weekend the Emergency Department of MUH is used as a surrogate GP service because there are not enough GPs to provide a service in the county. He called on the incoming government to prioritise a scheme to ensure that it is attractive for GPs to move to Mayo and practice in rural communities. We are about 25 doctors short in Co Mayo and at the weekend the whole system grinds to a halt. The whole system relies on Westdoc for primary care and when that gets swamped everyone is to go to the Accident and Emergency unit. The main problem is the lack of primary care at the weekends, which leads to a big backlog, and on Monday and Tuesday will be bad in terms of trolleys. The Accident and Emergency Unit is used as surrogate GP cover at the weekend We have to put a plan in place to make it sweet for them [GPs] to stay. Once we grasp the nettle of holding onto the GPs we educate, this will continue on. There is no other solution. It is no surprise we have a major problem with the Accident and Emergency [at MUH], but you could build another wing and you will still have the same problem until you deal with the lack of GP cover in the county. The solutions are there and I am blue in the face talking about it. The government knows this but they have done nothing to increase the GP numbers, he said. Makeshift beds The previous week, on Monday, December 31, 37 patients were left on trolleys in Mayo University Hospital, with the number of cases of influenza and other respiratory diseases rising over the festive period. The wearing of face masks in MUH and other hospitals in the West and Northwest is now mandatory for everyone attending the Emergency Department. Castlebar-based councillor Michael Kilcoyne, who is a member of the HSE Regional Health Forum, said he has heard of chairs being put together to act as makeshift beds for patients waiting to be seen. He said that the building of a new Emergency Department and ward is a number of years off, and he called on Mayos Government TDs to prioritise investment in the Castlebar hospital. For the last five years we have been promised an extension to the hospitals A&E, but we are still waiting, and it could be another five years before it is eventually provided for. It is a very poor service for the people, and I dont see it improving soon. The hospital should be a priority but at the end of the day I suppose it was not enough of a priority with the electorate at the recent general election. The Independents who will join Fianna Fail and Fine Gael in the next government will ensure the hospitals in their area are prioritised, and unfortunately, we dont have any Independent in government from Mayo, he said. Infections rife In light of the high number of patients on trolleys across the country, INMO General Secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha has called for an emergency national plan to deal with overcrowding. 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, she said. It is inconceivable that we are once again talking about how high trolley figures are on the first Monday in January. 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. 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. Two months after Ghana saw the launch of its first 5G wholesale network, telecoms operators have yet to lease capacity from it to offer commercial 5G services, according to Minister of Communications and Digitalization Ursula Owusu. Owusu first announced plans to introduce 5G to Ghana via a shared wholesale network model in May 2024 to help telcos save on rollout costs. To that end, Radisys, Nokia and Tech Mahindra united with Ascend Digital Solutions, telecom solutions provider K-NET, mobile network operators AT Ghana and Telecel Ghana, and the Ghanian government to launch a JV called Next-Gen InfraCo (NGIC) to build out the shared infrastructure. NGIC was granted a ten-year exclusive licence to deploy neutral 4G and 5G infrastructure to be leased to operators, and launched its 5G wholesale network at the start of November 2024. NGIC said it would start rollouts in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi, with the goal of achieving national coverage by 2026. The NGIC launch was heralded by the government and stakeholders as a pivotal move to accelerate digital inclusivity and growth in Ghana. The ministry also said rolling out a wholesale 5G network in phases would ensures rural inclusion, with subsidies to support underserved areas, as opposed to commercial 5G rollouts that are typically concentrated in urban centres. However, since the November launch, none of Ghanas main mobile operators which includes NGIC stakeholders Telecel Ghana, AT Ghana, as well as MTN Ghana have leveraged the NGIC network to launch their own 5G services, according to the Ecofin news agency. During an interview on local television channel TV3, Owusu that the ministry has done its part to get the 5G ball rolling in Ghana, but its now up to operators to actively sell it. People didn't listen to us at launch. This is a wholesale infrastructure. We built it, and now it's up to telecommunications companies to buy capacity and provide it to their subscribers," she told TV3. The Ecofin report notes that its unknown if Telecel, AT Ghana and MTN have started discussions with NGIC or what the conditions of leasing 5G capacity will be. The ministry has also stopped short of providing a timeline of when it expects operators to start offering 5G services. One sticking point may be the question of how much demand for 5G actually exists in Ghana, given that the penetration rate of 4G in the country which has been available for the last nine years was just 15% as of June 2024, according to government figures. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalization plans to boost that figure up to 80% by 2027. by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, January 6, 2025 As CES 2025 kicks off in Las Vegas, beauty business watchers are bracing themselves for a flurry of launches, from goofy gadgets to game-changing tech. Three big names -- L'Oreal, Samsung and Amorepacific -- are getting early buzz. LOreal is polishing its rep as the most tech-forward beauty brand, introducing Cell BioPrint. The portable lab-on-a-chip tool promises to help people forecast -- and outsmart -- their skins aging trajectory. The tabletop hardware device takes just five minutes to analyze a skin sample, studying the protein composition to predict how skin will age. L'Oreal says the tech is made possible by L'Oreal's Longevity Integrative Sciencea, which explores how biological mechanisms affect skin's appearance, and through an exclusive partnership with Korean startup NanoEnTek. advertisement advertisement People put a facial tape strip on their cheek and place it into a buffer solution. That solution is loaded into the L'Oreal Cell BioPrint cartridge and inserted into the machine for analysis. While L'Oreal Cell BioPrint processes the sample, the Skin Connect device takes several photographs of the consumers face. The shopper also answers a short questionnaire about aging and skin concerns. The resulting analysis provides personalized details that include the skins biological age and advice about slowing down the aging process, ingredient responsiveness, such as how it might respond to retinol, and a measure of reactivity, like a tendency toward dark spots or enlarged pores. L'Oreal Cell BioPrint will pilot with a L'Oreal brand in Asia in 2025. The company says the development of the new technology was inspired by the hit-or-miss experiences most consumers have with skincare. It cites a study of 2,000U.S. consumers, with nearly 80% relying on trial and error to determine what products suit them. The average person reports trying seven different cleansers before finding the right fit. Samsung also wants to have a say in peoples beauty routines, introducing the Micro LED Beauty Mirror. By analyzing individual skin types, the mirror provides tailored product recommendations to make self-care more intuitive and effective, leveraging innovative beauty solutions developed by Amorepacific," according to Samsung. Amorepacific, Koreas largest cosmetics company, was named a CES 2025 Innovation Award Honoree for its new Wanna-Beauty AI. Its AI Skin Analysis & Care Solution will be unveiled in the Samsung mirror. Like the LOreal product, the innovation combines camera-based optical and contact-type skin diagnoses, promising in-depth personalized suggestions. A Bolt, formerly known as Taxify, sign is seen on the taxi car in Riga, Latvia April 9, 2019. Photo by Reuters Bolt, Europes first homegrown ride-hailing company and Ubers main competitor in the continent, is now recruiting management staff and drivers in HCMC. The companys website, which now offers Vietnamese as a language option, allows candidates to register as drivers for a weekly income running into millions of dong (VND1 million = US$39.40). Founded in 2013 in Estonia, Bolt now operates in over 50 countries with services ranging from ride-hailing and car rentals to food and grocery delivery. It claims to have 4.6 million drivers and delivery partners serving over 200 million users globally. Vietnams ride-hailing market is projected to reach $880 million in 2024 and grow at a compounded annual rate of 19.5%, hitting $2.16 billion by 2029, according to Indian market research firm Mordor Intelligence. Its major competitors now include Grab, Xanh SM and Be. Last year Indonesias Gojek exited Vietnam after six years in the country, while Uber had pulled out in 2018. by Teresa Buyikian , January 6, 2025 One 200-year-old gin brand is betting on its heritage and iconic status to attract new gin drinkers. Tanqueray London Gin is embracing its classic image in its new brand campaign, Classic or Nothing. The effort, which broke last month, places the Tanqueray brand next to other cultural icons, individuals who dare to swim against the tide and audaciously choose the classics, embracing quality over trend, per the brand. The new social work debuts the brands refreshed green color palette. Classics thus far featured in the new social ads include French fries (as paired with the Tanqueray gin martini) as well as the New York Giants Hakeem Nicks. "'Classic or Nothing' is the declaration of legends who know what they want and won't be convinced otherwise," says Devaunshi Mahadevia, director of gin at DIAGEO North America. advertisement advertisement The new effort leans heavily on experiential as well, with the Classic or Nothing Diner debuting recently at the Austin Food & Wine Festival. The pop-ups combine two classics; the American diner and a Tanqueray gin cocktail. At the pop-up at the MetLife Stadium's FanZone on Dec. 15, Nicks participated with his favorite cocktail, a Tom Collins, paired with "dirty fries (French fries topped with fried chicken and spicy honey mustard) as a nod to the players North Carolina heritage. Additional dates for the Classic or Nothing Diner pop-up will be announced via the brands Instagram @TanquerayUSA. The campaign will contain other yet-to-be-announced marketing activations, including retail experiences. Tanqueray London Dry Gin is the #1 selling gin in the U.S. per Nielsen. Google has unveiled the latest version of its TV operating system integrated with its Gemini AI assistant. Gemini supports the feature, News Brief, unveiled at CES 2025. It will summarize the news of the day by searching and scraping news stories and headlines from across the internet and YouTube that have been posted by a list of trusted news channels. It then serves up a summary of events to the user. The Gemini upgrade also would allow users to hold back-and-forth conversations with third-party TVs without the need to use Hey Google to trigger a command, Bloomberg reports. Google plans to release the Gemini capabilities geared toward Google TV devices toward the end of 2025. Older devices will receive an update, while new devices will come equipped with the feature. The update marks the first time Google will bring Gemini to third-party TV sets running its OS, including Sony. advertisement advertisement Its not clear whether Google will need to license the content from publishers it serves in News Brief similar to the way it has done online in Google Search. Its also not clear whether these news briefs will identify the source of the information, and if viewers will have the ability to click through to read the entire article. Google does pay publishers to curate content and provide limited access to paywalled stories for free, but the content appears on the News Showcase platform and not in search results. It has since late 2020. The company also has committed $1 billion to pay publishers to support journalism and the news industry. Early this month, Google sent $100 million (U.S. $69 million) it agreed to pay Canadian news outlets in exchange for an exemption from the Online News Act to the Canadian Journalism Collective, a federally incorporated non-profit organization led by independent publishers and broadcasters. And while the feature is focused on News Briefs, the possibilities for ecommerce in this TV OS are endless if Google decides to build a click-and-buy option in ads. by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, January 7, 2025 In a post on Meta platforms this morning, Mark Zuckerberg announced the company will discontinue fact-checking content posted on its sites and apps, and would become more like the kind of "free speech" platform X has morphed into since Elon Musk acquired Twitter. Characterizing the outcome of the presidential election as feeling like a "cultural tipping point," Zuckerberg said Meta will be working with Donald Trump to promote his brand of free speech around the world, and even gave props to co-president-elect Elon Musk, explaining why Meta is adopting X's model: "We are now changing this approach. We will end the current third party fact checking program in the United States and instead begin moving to a Community Notes program. Weve seen this approach work on X where they empower their community to decide when posts are potentially misleading and need more context, and people across a diverse range of perspectives decide what sort of context is helpful for other users to see. We think this could be a better way of achieving our original intention of providing people with information about what theyre seeing and one thats less prone to bias." advertisement advertisement He even noted that Meta is in the process of moving its "trust and safety teams that write our content policies" from California to "Texas and other U.S. locations." Interestingly, Zuckerberg didn't show any signs of being a hostage victim, but generally speaking, he rarely shows signs of anything. In any case, Meta's capitulation is the latest in a series of big billionaire controlled media and platforms that have begun supplicating to Trump, beginning with Jeff Bezos' decision to scuttle The Washington Post's endorsement of Kamala Harris just before the election and it has ramped up ever since. "Mainstream media" aside, Meta's move is the most serious abandonment of safeguards to date, because it reaches more than 3 billion active users, while X reaches about a fifth of that. The move means the only big social media platforms yet to capitulate are Google's YouTube, and ByteDance's TikTok, which is only days away from either being banned (did someone say "free speech") in the U.S., or spun off to a U.S.-based entity with an as-yet-unknown political bent. The most telling part of Zuckerberg's remarks this morning is when he said, "A lot of this is clearly political." No doubt. by Ray Schultz , January 7, 2025 The beleaguered Washington Post has laid off 4% of its staff. The cuts mostly hit the business side and spared the newsroom, reports state. The layoffs affected 73 people in the advertising department, which is set for a restructuring, the Daily Beast reports, sourcing the New York Times. Other reports put the total number of people being laid off at 100. The Post suffered a $77 million loss in 2023. The Washington Post is continuing its transformation to meet the needs of the industry, build a more sustainable future and reach audiences where they are, a spokesperson said, the Times reports. Changes across our business functions are all in service of our greater goal to best position The Post for the future. This round of cuts follows the layoff of 54 employees from the Posts Arc XP division in September 2024. In 2023, 240 individuals left the Post through buyouts. advertisement advertisement The Post newsroom has been demoralized by owner Jeff Bezos' decision to not endorse a presidential candidate in 2024, by the rejection of a cartoon showing tech giants, including Bezos, bending the knee to Donald Trump, and by the subsequent resignation of Ann Telnaes, a Pulitzer-Prize-winning cartoonist. AI-driven drug discovery identifies potential RIPK3 inhibitors for glaucoma treatment. Trusted Source Artificial intelligence-enabled discovery of a RIPK3 inhibitor with neuroprotective effects in an acute glaucoma mouse model Go to source Trusted Source Did You Know? Older people are at a higher risk for glaucoma but babies can be born with glaucoma (approximately 1 out of every 10,000 babies born in the United States). #medindia #glaucoma #babies Older people are at a higher risk for glaucoma but babies can be born with glaucoma (approximately 1 out of every 10,000 babies born in the United States). #medindia #glaucoma #babies Advertisement RIPK3: A Potential Target for Glaucoma Therapy Advertisement AI-Driven Drug Screening Approach Advertisement In Silico Analysis: ADMET Predictions In Vitro Model of Optic Nerve Damage Inhibition of Cell Death Pathways: Apoptosis, Pyroptosis, and Necroptosis AI Technologies Aiding Drug Discovery Artificial intelligence-enabled discovery of a RIPK3 inhibitor with neuroprotective effects in an acute glaucoma mouse model - (https://journals.lww.com/cmj/fulltext/9900/artificial_intelligence_enabled_discovery_of_a.1374.aspx) Glaucoma is a progressive condition of the eye caused by the accumulation of fluid, leading toIt is projected that by 2040, 111.8 million individuals worldwide will be affected by glaucoma , which can result in blindness if not treated. While treatments are available to control eye pressure, there is still).Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are crucial for transmitting visual signals from the eyes to the brain, and their degeneration leads to optic nerve damage, which is a hallmark of glaucoma. In recent years, scientists have focused on developing neuroprotective drugs that can rescue RGCs and restore the optic nerve pathways. Necroptosis, a pathway responsible for programmed cell death, plays a significant role in the loss of RGCs. Unlike other forms of cell death, necroptosis shares features of both apoptosis (natural cell breakdown) and necrosis (injury-related cell damage).(RIPK3), a key signaling molecule, is known to play a critical role in necroptosis, making it a promising target for therapeutic intervention.To identify potential RIPK3 inhibitors, a team of researchers from different research facilities and medical centers in China came together to conduct an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven drug screening technique and identify the potential target compounds of RIPK3. The study, led by Dr. Yuanxu Gao from Macau University of Science and Technology and Professor Zhang Kang from Guangzhou National Laboratory, was published in the. AI provides reliable tools and methods for drug discovery, such as virtual screening, quantitative structure-activity relationship modeling, and de novo drug design, says Dr. Gao, speaking about the motivation behind the study.The team utilized advanced AI models, including a large language model and graph neural network models, to identify RIPK3-targeting molecules. Even though the command, small-molecule compounds targeting RIPK3, was the same throughout numerous engagements with ChatGPT 3.5, the team got a randomized AI-generated list. The team also used multiple AI models, including DynamicBind, to predict the drug-RIPK3 affinity and interaction pattern. Complex-conformation prediction using molecular dynamics simulation along with in silico analysis of absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) of the molecules was also performed. To validate these findings, the team conducted biological experiments, including cell viability assays, immunofluorescence, histological analysis, and protein quantification.Using AI, the team identified HG9-91-01, dabrafenib, AZD5423, GSK840, and HS-1371 as the most potent small-molecule compounds that can effectively target RIPK3. According to affinity-score prediction models, HG9-91-01 was considered to be the most promising candidate for targeting RIPK3. The suitability of HG9-91-01 was confirmed by molecular simulations, demonstrating that it formed a more stable complex with RIPK3 compared to other options. The compound also exhibited good results in safety and drug-related tests as per the ADMET predictions.The compounds efficacy was validated through laboratory experiments. In an in vitro model mimicking optic nerve damage, RGCs exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) showed higher survival rates when treated with HG9-91-01 compared to other candidates. The compound also reduced the presence of gasdermin D (GSDMD)-positive cells, a marker of pyroptosis, a type of inflammatory cell death. Highlighting an interesting aspect of this study, Prof. Kang says, Although numerous studies have focused on anti-apoptotic, anti-necroptotic, and anti-pyroptotic drugs for treating acute ocular hypertension (AOH), strategies targeting PANoptosis, including cell-cell communication and cascade reactions of cell death, are rarely mentioned. In this study, we investigated potential drug treatments targeting RIPK3 to prevent RGC death and explored their role in preventing PANoptosis.In vivo experiments involving mouse models also showed positive results. Retinal thinning is often associated with glaucoma and increased ocular pressure. However, treatment with HG9-91-01 molecule prevented the loss of retinal thickness. It also reduced the activation of signaling molecules associated with apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis, suggesting its potential in preventing PANoptosis.The findings of this study provide interesting insights into the combination of AI algorithms and traditional drug screening methods, that might lead to a logical and data-driven drug development model. Biological research investigating drug-target interaction necessitates a substantial amount of time and resources. AI-based prediction models simplify and expedite this process. AI technologies are useful for handling computationally intensive tasks and making rational decisions based on complex multimodal knowledge. However, possible concerns such as data privacy, transparency, and bias should be addressed with caution, concludes Dr. Gao.In order to confirm that HG9-91-01 can protect the retinal structure in patients with AOH, the team plans on conducting further confirmatory retinal assessments. With AI-driven breakthroughs on the horizon, the future of glaucoma treatment looks brighter than ever!Source-Eurekalert Its a known fact that before Keanu Reeves immortalised Neo on the big screen with the groundbreaking and genre-defining The Matrix in 1999, it was Will Smith who was first offered the role but he rejected it for Wild Wild West (1999). While The Matrix spawned a franchise and became a cult classic, Wild Wild West was a critical and commercial misfire. Now, almost thirty years later, the actor shared a cryptic post on his Instagram account teasing fans that he may be joining the much-loved franchise leaving many to wonder if he is replacing Keanu Reeves in the upcoming reboot. Warner Bros Smith shared a short clip that had the text that read, 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 clip ended with the text, Wake up, Will The Matrix has you Check out his post below: Reacting to the post, one fan wrote, Is this a hint that youre gonna be in the next matrix movie? Another fan commented, Sorry you're really brilliant actor, But there couldn't have been anyone better than Keanu for the role. A third fan reacted, This is going to be a movie about a movie that would've been a different movie if Will Smith didn't do a different movie instead. Check out some of the responses below: Instagram/Will Smith Instagram/Will Smith Rolf Eiten (R) is handing the baton to Stefan Budweit (L) Clark Europe has announced a change in management following ten years of service of Rolf Eiten as President & CEO. He is handing over the baton to Stefan Budweit, COO & Director Sales & Marketing, in order to devote himself to other tasks within the company. Stefan Budweit has already held various management positions within the company for thirteen years and took over as COO at Clark Europe just last year. Rolf Eiten, who began his professional career at Clark in 1976, took over the management of Clark Europe (CMHEU) and Clark France (CMHFR) in 2014 following the death of Egon Strehl. Here he made a significant contribution to the development and growth of the company. It has been an honour to be part of this great team and to drive Clark's vision forward together with our employees and contract partners, says Rolf Eiten. I am proud of what we have achieved and wish Stefan Budweit every success in his new role. Rolf Eiten will continue to work in an advisory capacity for the management and the new Managing Director. He will also continue in his role as Regional Manager for Turkey and assume responsibility for CMHEU as an authorised signatory. In the longer term, Eiten will devote himself to global tasks at Clark. Stefan Budweit has more than 30 years of national and international experience in the field of material handling to continue the successful work of Rolf Eiten. Before joining Clark Europe in 2012, he worked as a key account manager for Toyota and Jungheinrich, among others. Budweit started his career at Clark Europe as Business Development Manager. Here he was responsible for the strategic direction and further development of Clark Europe. Stefan Budweit then worked as Director Sales & Marketing until 2023 and has assumed additional responsibility as COO of Clark Europe since January 2024. I am very much looking forward to the new challenge and to shaping the next steps for Clark Europe together with our dedicated team, explains Stefan Budweit on taking office. 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. 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. "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. 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. 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 In March 2017, two United Nations experts and three Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) citizens assisting them were ambushed, marched to a field and murdered by local militia in the village of Moyo Musuila. One of the UN experts was an American citizen, Michael J. Sharp, and his colleague Zaida Maria Catalan was a dual Swedish-Chilean national. The group was investigating corruption and atrocities, said Beth Van Schaack, U.S. Department of State Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice: They were killed in 2017 while investigating conflict in the Kasai region between the armed forces of the DRC and various armed militia groups active in that particular area. Humanitarian workers in particular deserve our special protection because they have taken on extremely difficult tasks, said Ambassador Van Schaack. We are seeing that humanitarian workers are under threat worldwide. We're seeing that at a number of different conflict locations around the world and the brutal murder of Michael Sharp and his colleagues is another example of that. So, it's extremely important to promote justice and accountability in order to help protect humanitarian workers. We owe them our best efforts to keep them safe and to reduce the immense risks that they face. Four DRC nationals are wanted by the DRC High Military Court for their participation in this murder: Evariste Ilunga Lumu, Merovee Mutombo, Gerard Kabongo, and Jean Kutenelo Badibanga. The U.S. Department of State Global Criminal Justice Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information on that leads to their capture or conviction. If you do have relevant information, it's really critical that you come forward, said Ambassador Van Schaack. Anyone is eligible except law enforcement engaging in their official functions. But that does mean that family members, individuals who are known to the accused, individuals who are part of the same armed group as the accused, they are also eligible for rewards. And ... their identity will be kept strictly confidential. Any tip can make a pivotal difference. Reach out to the Global Criminal Justice Rewards Program by texting +1-202-975-5468 or emailing GCJRP@state.gov. You can read more about the program on the U.S. State Department's website at www.state.gov/global-criminal-justice-rewards-program 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. 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. "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. "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' 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. 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. 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. 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." 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' The eldest son of President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Greenland on Tuesday for a private visit that heightened speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to take control of the mineral-rich Danish territory that's home to a large U.S. military base. The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jr.'s plane landed in Nuuk, capital of the vast and icy Arctic territory that has some 57,000 residents. Local media broadcast footage of him walking across a snowy tarmac. In a statement, Greenland's government said Trump Jr.'s visit would take place as a private individual and not as an official visit and that Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Greenland is an autonomous territory thats part of Denmark. Trump Jr. is in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland foreign affairs department, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr.'s delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect recently voiced a desire also expressed during his first presidency to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the U.S, China, Russia and others. The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet. 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, the president-elect posted on his social media site Monday night, referring to his Make America Great Again movement. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, Trump wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, and called the United States Denmarks most important ally. Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdom's rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Last month, the king changed Denmark's coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, the king said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. During his first term, the U.S. president-elect mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. 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. DAMASCUS, Syria Handcuffed and squatting on the floor, Abdullah Zahra saw smoke rising from his cellmates flesh as his torturers gave him electric shocks. Then it was Zahras turn. They hanged the 20-year-old university student from his wrists until his toes barely touched the floor and electrocuted and beat him for two hours. They made his father watch and taunted him about his sons torment. That was 2012, and the entire security apparatus of Syrias then-President Bashar Assad was deployed to crush the protests that had arisen against his rule. With Assads fall a month ago, the machinery of death that he ran is starting to come out into the open. It was systematic and well-organized, growing to more than 100 detention facilities where torture, brutality, sexual violence and mass executions were rampant, according to activists, rights group and former prisoners. Security agents spared no one, not even Assads own soldiers. Young men and women were detained for simply living in districts where protests were held. As tens of thousands disappeared over more than a decade, a blanket of fear kept the Syrian population silent. People rarely told anyone that a loved one had vanished for fear they too could be reported to security agencies. Now, everyone is talking. The insurgents who swept Assad out of power opened detention facilities, releasing prisoners and allowing the public to bear witness. Crowds swarmed, searching for answers, bodies of their loved ones, and ways to heal. The Associated Press visited seven of these facilities in Damascus and spoke to nine former detainees, some released on Dec. 8, the day Assad was ousted. Some details of the accounts by those who spoke to the AP could not be independently confirmed, but they matched past reports by former detainees to human rights groups. Days after Assads fall, Zahra now 33 -- came to visit Branch 215, a detention facility run by military intelligence in Damascus where he was held for two months. In an underground dungeon, he stepped into the windowless, 4-by-4-meter (yard) cell where he says he was held with 100 other inmates. Each man was allowed a floor tile to squat on, Zahra said. When ventilators weren't running -- either intentionally or because of a power failure -- some suffocated. Men went mad; torture wounds festered. When a cellmate died, they stowed his body next to the cell's toilet until jailers came to collect corpses, Zahra said. Death was the least bad thing, he said. We reached a place where death was easier than staying here for one minute. Assad's system of repression grew as civil war raged Zahra was arrested along with his father after security agents killed one of his brothers, a well-known anti-Assad graffiti artist. After they were released, Zahra fled to opposition-held areas. Within a few months, security agents returned and dragged off 13 of his male relatives, including a younger brother and, again, his father. They were brought to Branch 215. All were tortured and killed. Zahra later recognized their bodies among photos leaked by a defector that showed the corpses of thousands killed while in detention. Their bodies were never recovered, and how and when they died is unknown. Rights groups estimate at least 150,000 people went missing after anti-government protests began in 2011, most vanishing into Assads prison network. Many of them were killed, either in mass executions or from torture and prison conditions. The exact number remains unknown. Even before the uprising, Assad had ruled with an iron fist. But as peaceful protests turned into a full-fledged civil war that would last 14 years, Assad rapidly expanded his system of repression. New detention facilities sprung up in security compounds, military airports and under buildings all run by military, security and intelligence agencies. Touring the site of his torture and detention, Zahra hoped to find some sign of his lost relatives. But there was nothing. At home, his aunt, Rajaa Zahra, saw the pictures of her killed children for the first time. She had refused to look at the leaked photos before. She lost three of her six sons in Branch 215 and a fourth was killed at a protest. Her brother, she said, had three sons, now he has only one. They were hoping to finish off all the young men of the country. Syrians were tortured with the tire and magic carpet The Assad regime's tortures had names. One was called the magic carpet, where a detainee was strapped to a hinged wooden plank that bends in half, folding his head to his feet, which are then beaten. Abdul-Karim Hajeko said he endured this five times. His torturers stomped on his back during interrogations at the Criminal Security branch, and his vertebrae are still broken. My screams would go to heaven. Once a doctor came down from the fourth floor (to the ground floor) because of my screams, he said. He was also put in the tire. His legs were bent inside a car tire as interrogators beat his back and feet with a plastic baton. When they were done, he said, a guard ordered him to kiss the tire and thank it for teaching him how to behave. Hajeko was later taken to the notorious Saydnaya Prison, where he was held for six years. Many prisoners said the tire was inflicted for rule violations -- like making noise, raising ones head in front of guards, or praying or for no reason at all. Mahmoud Abdulbaki, a non-commissioned air force officer who defected from service, was put in the tire during detention at a military police facility. They forced him to count the lashes up to 200 and if he made a mistake, the torturer would start over. Peoples hearts stopped following a beating, the 37-year-old said. He was later held at Saydnaya, where he said guards would terrorize inmates by rolling a tire down the corridor lined with cells and beat on the bars with their batons. Wherever it stopped, the entire cell would be subjected to the tire. Altogether, Abdulbaki spent nearly six years in prison over different periods. He was among those freed on the day Assad fled Syria. Saleh Turki Yahia said a cellmate died nearly every day during the seven months in 2012 he was held at the Palestine Branch, a detention facility run by the General Intelligence Agency. He recounted how one man bled in the cell for days after returning from a torture session where interrogators rammed a pipe into him. When the inmates tried to move him, all his fluids poured out from his backside. The wound opened from the back, and he died, he said. Yahya said he was given electric shocks, hanged from his wrists, beaten on his feet. He lost half his body weight and nearly tore his own skin scratching from scabies. They broke us, he said, breaking into tears. Look at Syria, it is all old men ... A whole generation is destroyed. But with Assad gone, he was back visiting the Palestine Branch. I came to express myself. I want to tell. The mounting evidence will be used in trials Torture continued up to the end of Assads rule. Rasha Barakat, 34, said she and her sister were detained in March from their homes in Saqba, a town outside Damascus. Inside a security branch, she was led past her husband, who had been arrested hours earlier and was being interrogated. He was kneeling on the floor, his face green, she said. It was her last brief glimpse of him: He died in custody. During her own hours-long interrogation, she said, security agents threatened to bring in her sons, 5- and 7-years-old, if she didnt confess. She was beaten. Female security agents stripped her and poured cold water on her, leaving her shivering naked for two hours. She spent eight days in isolation, hearing beatings nearby. Eventually she was taken to Adra, Damascus central prison, tried and sentenced to five years for supporting rebel groups, charges she said were made up. There she stayed until insurgents broke into Adra in December and told her she was free. An estimated 30,000 prisoners were released as fighters opened up prisons during their march to Damascus. Barakat said she is happy to see her kids again. But I am destroyed psychologically Something is missing. It is hard to keep going. Now comes the monumental task of accounting for the missing and compiling evidence that could one day be used to prosecute Assads officials, whether by Syrian or international courts. Hundreds of thousands of documents remain scattered through the former detention facilities, many labeled classified, in storage rooms commonly underground. Some seen by the AP included transcripts of phone conversations, even between military officers; intelligence files on activists; and a list of hundreds of prisoners killed in detention. Shadi Haroun, who spent 10 years imprisoned, has been charting Assads prison structure and documenting former detainees experiences from exile in Turkey. After Assads fall, he rushed back to Syria and toured detention sites. The documents, he said, show the bureaucracy behind the killings. They know what they are doing, it is organized. Civil defense workers are tracking down mass graves where tens of thousands are believed to be buried. At least 10 have been identified around Damascus, mostly from residents reports, and five others elsewhere around the country. Authorities say they are not ready to open them. A U.N. body known as the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism has offered to help Syria's new interim administration in collecting, organizing and analyzing all the material. Since 2011, it has been compiling evidence and supporting investigations in over 200 criminal cases against figures in Assads government. Robert Petit, director of the U.N. body, said the task is so enormous, no one entity can do it alone. The priority would be to identify the architects of the brutality. Many want answers now. Officials cannot just declare that the missing are presumed dead, said Wafaa Mustafa, a Syrian journalist, whose father was detained and killed 12 years ago. No one gets to tell the families what happened without evidence, without search, without work. SEOUL, South Korea North Korea said Tuesday its latest weapons test was a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile designed to strike remote targets in the Pacific as leader Kim Jong Un vowed to further expand his collection of nuclear-capable weapons to counter rival nations. The North Korean state media report came a day after South Koreas military said it detected North Korea launching a missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The launch, conducted weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president, came off a torrid year in weapons testing. North Korea demonstrated multiple weapons systems last year that can target its neighbors and the United States, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, and there are concerns that its military capabilities could advance further through technology transfers from Russia, as the two countries align over the war in Ukraine. North Korea in recent years has flight tested various intermediate-range missiles, which if perfected, could reach the U.S. Pacific military hub of Guam. In recent months, North has been testing combining these missiles with purported hypersonic warheads to improve their survivability. North Korea since 2021 has been testing various hypersonic weapons designed to fly at more than five times the speed of sound. The speed and maneuverability of such weapons aim to withstand regional missile defense systems. However, its unclear whether these missiles are consistently flying at the speeds the North claims. The Norths state media said Kim supervised Mondays launch, and that the weapon traveled 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), during which it reached two different peaks of 99.8 kilometers (62 miles) and 42.5 kilometers (26.4 miles) and achieved a speed amounting to 12 times the speed of sound, before accurately striking a sea target. Lee Sung Joon, spokesperson of South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the South Korean military believes North Korea was exaggerating capabilities of the system, saying the missile covered less distance and that there was no second peak. Lee said the test was likely a followup to another hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile test last April and said it would be difficult to use such systems in a relatively small territory like the Korean Peninsula. He said the South Korean and U.S. militaries were continuing to analyze the missile. Kim described the missile as a crucial achievement in his goals to bolster the Norths nuclear deterrence by building an arsenal no one can respond to, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state, the agency quoted Kim as saying. Kim reiterated that his nuclear push was aimed at countering different security threats the hostile forces posed to our state, but KCNA didnt mention any direct criticism toward Washington, Seoul or Tokyo. The launch took place while 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. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul on Monday, Blinken condemned North Koreas launch, which violated U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North's weapons programs. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscows war on Ukraine. He described the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow 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. 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 Kims nuclear-armed military. At a year-end political conference, Kim Jong Un 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 as president, 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. WASHINGTON The Pentagon said Monday it had transferred 11 Yemeni men to Oman this week after holding them for more than two decades without charge at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The transfer was the latest and biggest push by the Biden administration in its final weeks to clear Guantanamo of the last remaining detainees there who were never charged with a crime. The latest release brings the total number of men detained at Guantanamo to 15. That's the fewest since 2002, when President George W. Bush's administration turned Guantanamo into a detention site for the mostly Muslim men taken into custody around the world in what the U.S. called its war on terror." The U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and military and covert operations elsewhere followed the Sept. 11, 2001, al-Qaida attacks. The men in the latest transfer included Shaqawi al Hajj, who had undergone repeated hunger strikes and hospitalizations at Guantanamo to protest his 21 years in prison, preceded by two years of detention and torture in CIA custody, according to the U.S.-based Center for Constitutional Rights. Rights groups and some lawmakers have pushed successive U.S. administrations to close Guantanamo or, failing that, release all those detainees never charged with a crime. Guantanamo held about 800 detainees at its peak. The Biden administration and administrations before it said they were working on lining up suitable countries willing to take those never-charged detainees. Many of those stuck at Guantanamo were from Yemen, a country split by war, with its capital held by the Iranian-allied Houthi militant group. The sultanate of Oman, on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, did not acknowledge taking in the prisoners early Tuesday. Officials in the country did not respond to questions from The Associated Press. The key Western ally has taken in some 30 prisoners in the past since the founding of the prison. However, those prisoners have since been released in circumstances unexplained by Oman. Two Afghans once held by Oman returned to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in February. One Yemeni died in Oman after being told he and 27 others would be repatriated to Yemen, the British activist group CAGE International said. Faced with little choice, 26 of the men and their families returned to Yemen after being pressured by the Omani government, which offered each $70,000 as compensation, the group said. It wasn't immediately clear what happened to the 28th prisoner. The transfer announced Monday leaves six never-charged men still being held at Guantanamo, two convicted and sentenced inmates, and seven others charged with the 2001 attacks, the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole, and 2002 bombings in Bali, Indonesia. ___ Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report. ___ A headline on a previous version of this story has been corrected to show the men were transferred to Oman, not Yemen. Unlock the Secrets of Google One: Understanding the Subscription (What Is Google One? Understanding the Subscription) Google One is a comprehensive set of services offered by Google that includes high-speed internet, access to Android devices, and advanced security features. In this blog post, well take a closer look at what Google One is and how it works. Firstly, lets talk about the high-speed internet service provided by Google One. With Google One, you can enjoy lightning-fast download speeds and upload speeds for all your online activities. Whether youre streaming videos, browsing the web, or checking emails, Google One has got you covered. Secondly, Google One offers access to Android devices. With Google One, you can stream videos, play games, and use a variety of apps on your Android device without the need for any additional software or hardware. And with the added security features like device lockout and wipeable data, you can rest assured that your device is always safe and secure. Thirdly, Google One provides advanced security features to keep your personal information and data safe. With the built-in firewall and malware protection, you can protect yourself from cyber threats like viruses, spyware, and phishing attempts. And with 24/7 monitoring, you can easily spot any suspicious activity on your device and take action to prevent further damage. So why should you choose Google One? First and foremost, Google One offers a wide range of services at an affordable price. Whether you want fast internet, access to Android devices, or advanced security features, Google One has got you covered. Plus, with the subscription-based model, you only pay for what you use, which makes it easy to manage your expenses. (What Is Google One? Understanding the Subscription) In conclusion, Google One is a comprehensive set of services that offer fast internet, access to Android devices, and advanced security features. So why wait? Sign up today and experience the benefits of Google One for yourself! Inquiry us if you want to want to know more, please feel free to contact us. ([email protected]) LAC LA BELLE, MI - Extreme ski aficionados flock to Michigans Mount Bohemia because they love testing their skills on the rugged downhills and the backcountry SnowCat runs. But it is the resorts ever-expanding Nordic Spa at this Keweenaw Peninsula destination thats creating all the off-slope buzz. The amenities already include whats likely the biggest hot tub in the Upper Peninsula, a cold-plunge pool, and specialty spa features like the Eucalyptus Steam Cabin, a Himalayan Salt Sauna, and a salt pod for stress-free floating. In the last week, Mount Bohemia announced it will be adding another hot tub area that will double as a mineral pool. We are excited to share the news that the (Mount Bohemia Nordic Spa) will be adding another hot tub with construction starting sometime in mid-May, the resort said in its social media announcement. This mineral pool/ hot tub will feature an array of minerals that you would normally find in a hot spring out West." Mount Bohemia's Nordic Spa area is expanding once again. A new mineral water hot tub is expected to open this summer.Photo provided by Mount Bohemia The new mineral pool could be open to guests as early as mid-July. It will be set at the same temperature as the existing hot tub. The new expansion in its spa offerings is another way Mount Bohemia is working to underscore its growing reputation as a four-season resort at the tip of Michigans Upper Peninsula. The use of the spa is free for all overnight lodging guests. Just on a day trip to Mount Bohemia? You can get a spa day pass for $40. There are also plans for a spring music festival. And there are year-round accommodations in a mix of lodging styles. Were hearing from more travel readers who are using this area as a base camp for their vacations and mini getaways. To follow the latest updates from Mount Bohemia, see its Facebook page here. The United States condemns the Hong Kong governments issuance of new arrest warrants and bounties targeting six overseas democracy activists and the cancellation of passports for seven other activists, including some based in the United States. The Hong Kong national security police issued a new wave of arrest warrants in late December, along with $1 million Hong Kong Dollars, or approximately $130,000 bounties, against six overseas Hong Kong rights defenders. The latest targets include Carmen Lau, Chloe Cheung, Tony Chung, Chung Kim-wah, Victor Leung Mau-ho and Joe Tay. They have been charged with national security offences including colluding with foreign forces and inciting secession as a result of social media posts and speeches. The seven rights defenders that had their passports revoked most recently include Ted Hui, Anna Kwok, Elmer Yuen, Dennis Kwok, Kevin Yam, Frances Hui and Joey Siu. They have also faced international bounties for their human rights advocacy. In June 2024, the Hong Kong government cancelled the passports of six activists based in the United Kingdom. And in July and December 2023, the Hong Kong government issued arrest warrants and bounties, under the 2020 National Security Law, for 13 activists based in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. We reject the Hong Kong governments efforts to intimidate and silence individuals who choose to make the United States their home, declared State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller in a statement. The United States does not waver in its advocacy for those who are targeted simply for exercising their right to freedom of expression. The extraterritorial application of Hong Kongs national security laws is a form of transnational repression that threatens U.S. sovereignty and the human rights and fundamental freedoms of people all over the world, said Mr. Miller. These actions demonstrate Hong Kong authorities disregard for international norms and for the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. The United States calls on the Hong Kong government to stop using its national security laws to silence dissent. GENESEE COUNTY, MI One of the two suspects accused in the death of a Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools employee has pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact. Katarena Gail Maddox, 23, pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence, felony firearm and accessory after the fact. KENT COUNTY, MI Kent County residents can get their hands on free radon test kits this month to test their homes for the odorless gas that is one of the leading causes of lung cancer. The Kent County Health Department is teaming up with the Kent District Library to give out free radon test kits through the month of January, in observance of Radon Action Month, according to a news release from the health department. County health officials are looking to help protect residents against the colorless, odorless gas that is responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths in the U.S. each year, according to the release. Just like carbon monoxide, radon cant be detected by the human senses, said Sara Simmonds, KCHD environmental health director. Since there are no warning signs or symptoms from radon exposure, testing is the only way to know if a building and the people in it are at risk. Radon is a gas that comes naturally from the Earth through the breakdown of uranium in the ground, and people can be exposed to it through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes. It is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The free radon test kits will be available at Kent District Library and Kent County Health Department locations while supplies last. You can find a KDL branch near you by visiting kdl.org or calling 616-784-2007. We are thrilled to partner with the Kent County Health Department on this important initiative, said Randall Goble, KDL director of engagement. As trusted community hubs, our libraries play a vital role in supporting the well-being of Kent County residents, and were proud to help make this important health resource more accessible. OTTAWA COUNTY, MI Police arrested two men suspected of stealing from vehicles in the Holland area. Ottawa County sheriffs deputies responded around 3 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, to the area of Riley Street and 136th Avenue in Holland Township for reports that two men were going through vehicles in a parking lot. When deputies reached the scene, the suspects ran. Police found one of the suspects nearby then used a tracking dog to find the other at a nearby home. The 18-year-old suspects are from Saginaw, police said. Both men were jailed on charges of larceny and resisting and obstructing police. Deputies recovered stolen property during the investigation. The Sheriffs Office reported an increase in car larcenies as well as car thefts. Police urged residents to lock vehicles and remove valuables. JACKSON, MI - Several city board and commission seats are open to anyone looking to get more involved with the Jackson community. Each of these groups consist of resident volunteers who assist the city government with enforcing ordinances, resolving conflicts, initiating special projects and advising the Jackson City Council. Applicants could be residents or non-residents of Jackson depending on the opening, city officials said in a news release. A full list of City of Jackson boards/commissions and their responsibilities can be found on the city website. Each board/commission is focused on a specific area, including police oversight, parks and recreation, public art, racial equity, the environment, historic preservation, planning, and affordable housing, among others. The mayor will select applicants, with final approval coming from the City Council, officials said. Each board or commission member serves a term specific to their appointment. Due to city ordinance, applicants will not be eligible for a position if they owe unpaid taxes or fines/fees to the City of Jackson, officials said. Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Jackson daily newsletter. The story has been updated with comment from Baker College. A Michigan college must pay a $2.5 million fine for misrepresenting the job placement rates and potential salaries for its graduates, according to a federal settlement announced Tuesday. MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, MI - The Muskegon Heights City Council failed to pass the citys 2025 budget during a special meeting Monday night. Because the budget is not authorized, the city is not able to make any payments, including payroll for city staff, bills and distribution of funds for projects around the city. The citys next payroll is scheduled to be sent in this coming Monday, Jan. 13. City staff include the police and fire department employees. Council member Lashae Simmons had questions about the 2024 and 2025 budgets and proposed instead to have a special meeting of the finance committee to discuss those things. Some things dont look well, and that doesnt mean anyone is misappropriating, its just we have to get back to the basics and do what we need to do, Simmons said. That finance meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, at Muskegon Heights City Hall, 2724 Peck St. The Muskegon Heights City Council on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Not pictured is councilman Andre Williams on the far right of the dais.Kayla Tucker Councilman Derrick Lamar Collins said he never even saw the proposed 2025 budget. The council voted Monday to have the city attorney write a resolution acknowledging that the city will only spend on necessary items, including payroll. In Tuesdays special finance committee meeting, council members and City Manager Melvin Burns are expected to put together a stopgap 90-day budget. The resolution will have to be voted on again, along with the budget, for the city to be back to regular financial function. A special meeting must be announced 18 hours before it is held, and the city offices are closed on Fridays, so at the latest a special meeting must be announced by Wednesday afternoon. The city is on a spending freeze, which has not been lifted either. Mayor Bonnie McGlothin said she was disappointed at the decision. Nothing changed ... which is wasting more time, McGlothin said. I just dont understand. We have never had to go through this before. McGlothin had suggested to council members that they approve the budget but plan a time to go through each line item and make amendments later, if necessary. The city council was originally scheduled to approve the citys 2025 budget during a meeting on Dec. 23, 2024, but a 3-3 vote on the agenda brought the meeting to a swift close. A special meeting was held Dec. 30, but only four council members were present. For a normal meeting, that would have been enough, but the budget vote requires a supermajority, which would be five of the seven council members. Councilman Andre Williams noted the full council chambers Monday night, which saw people overflowing out of the doors into the hallway. The room is filled with employees and rightfully so, Williams said. He implored the council to pass the full budget. That is not my fairy tale plan for tonight, but I struggle with leaving this seat and have people who, at this point, have already worked and who are worried if theyre going to be paid. No employee should have that on their conscious. At the end of Monday nights almost three-hour meeting, resident Beth Smith said the council needed to grow up. I came tonight cause its getting to the point of, please get it together, Smith said. The 2025 budget originally proposed by City Manager Melvin Burns had a deficit of $165,000. The deficit is not due to past deficit, but rather the proposed plan did not add up to a positive number. Burns proposed the city does not fill a soon-to-be open part-time police officer position, impose an engineering fee, reinstitute the Dangerous Buildings Ordinance and an across the board increase in all charges and fees with the exception of utility fees, to make up for the lack of funds. Those changes could bring in $191,544, bringing the budget out of the red. The Muskegon Heights Police Department at 2715 Baker St., on Tuesday, January 8, 2019. Kayla Renie | mrenie@mlive.comKayla Renie | mrenie@mlive.com Leadership is already planning to hire three more police academy recruits to the Muskegon Heights Police Department this month. The current part-time community police officer is going to move into the full-time officer position. Burns said the changes would reduce that departments expenditures by $37,544. The engineering fee would charge contractors for inconveniences like breaking up the sidewalk or cutting into the street and could bring in $44,000 in revenue, Burns said, adding that most other municipalities charge those fees. The Dangerous Buildings Ordinance would charge property owners for not abating their abandoned buildings in a timely fashion, bringing in an estimated $75,000 in revenue. The fee increases would bring in approximately $35,000 in revenue. The city also unanimously approved the millage and water rates for 2025. Muskegon Heights currently levies 22.8500 mills in property taxes from its residents. The monies go toward the citys general operations, streets, sanitation and debt. Water rates increased from $14.60 to $17.35 a month for the ready-to-serve charge and from $5.41 to $5.91 per thousand gallons for the consumption charge. Want more Muskegon-area news? Bookmark the local Muskegon news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Muskegon daily newsletter. SAGINAW COUNTY, MI Hemlock Semiconductor is another step closer to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities in Saginaw County thanks to $325 million in newly secured CHIPS Act funding. The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded Thomas Township-based Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) up to $325 million in direct funding under the CHIPS Incentives Programs Funding Opportunity for Commercial Fabrication facilities, according to a news release issued Tuesday, Jan. 7. A preliminary agreement was announced last fall. This award will support the construction of a new manufacturing facility in Saginaw County, creating approximately 180 manufacturing jobs and more than 1,000 construction jobs, the U.S. Department of Commerce news release states. We are pleased to announce the signing of a direct funding agreement with the Department of Commerce under the CHIPS Act. This agreement is a key milestone in enhancing our manufacturing capabilities as we continue to serve the leading-edge semiconductor market with high quality and sustainably made polysilicon, HSC Chairman and CEO AB Ghosh said in a statement. The new facility will play a crucial role in strengthening the semiconductor supply chain in the United States. The support from the Department of Commerce and our dedicated partners at all levels of government has been instrumental in making this possible. We look forward to contributing to the revitalization of the domestic supply chain, creating good-paying jobs and driving technological leadership in the semiconductor industry. HSC is to receive the funds upon completion of project milestones, the release states. CHIPS for Americas investment in HSC will help advance supply chain security by ensuring the U.S. has a reliable, domestic supply of polysilicon the bedrock of semiconductors, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said in a statement. Establishing a domestic source of these materials is important for development of leading-edge chip applications, which helps bolster our economic and national security. Through targeted investments like this, the Biden-Harris Administration is driving technological innovation in industries of the future and creating jobs across the country. U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City, added in a statement, This funding is a game changer for mid-Michigan. With it, we are making sure that Michigan will lead the world in manufacturing, and we are creating good-paying jobs for over one thousand hard-working families. Hemlock Semiconductor has reinforced their commitment to our community with an investment that will pay dividends for generations of Michigan workers. In Congress, I will continue fighting to protect American jobs and make sure that we manufacture more here in Michigan, not China. HSC was founded in 1961 and employs approximately 1,350 people at its headquarters in Thomas Township. It is owned by Corning Inc. and Shin-Etsu Handotai. 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. BAY CITY, MI The Bay City Commission on Monday, Jan. 6, gave the green light to fund a drop-in center for unhoused people at the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission on 9th Street despite the qualms of some commissioners. In a 7-2 vote, the commission opted to utilize $250,000 of Community Development Block Grant funds for the development of the center and then $150,000 annually from the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act for operation costs. Nothing in life is perfect, and I understand this isnt a perfect solution for everybody, but we do have some demonstration of this in other communities working for the population were looking to target, Bay City Mayor Chris Girard said. I dont know if well ever come up with a perfect solution. Commissioners Craig Kokaly of the 2nd Ward and Andrea Burney-Obershaw of the 3rd Ward voted no on the proposal. Kokaly, in his first meeting as a commissioner, was perplexed at how the plan placed before commissioners Monday called for the city to front the bill when many of those seeking services are from outside the city. He also took issue with the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act funds being used when it was previously earmarked for road repairs. I want to help with this immensely. I do believe in it, but I do not believe that the city should do 100% of it, he said. I want to help as much as I can. If it was my money, I would push it that way. I just wish I had more time to go over this and discuss it and get some more input on it. Commissioners in December tabled the resolution supporting a proposed Good Samaritan Drop-In Center, with many of those voting to send the item back to staff saying they did it so the incoming commission could weigh in on the subject. Mondays meeting was the first of 2025 and the first with the new batch of commissioners. Related: New Bay City mayor, commissioners sworn in at first meeting of 2025 Good Samaritan Rescue Mission opened in Bay City in 2005, providing services to homeless women and children across the county. By 2009, the rescue mission had added a mens shelter and had become the countys largest shelter. The rescue continued to grow, opening the Samaritan Youth Shelter in 2021, the Labadie Lofts as shelters in 2023 and then the Doud House in 2024. However, the mission and the city alike have continued to stress the need for a drop-in center, where unhoused people could seek immediate, short-term support. In many instances, these types of centers offer basic needs, such as shower access, clothing and food. Sometimes they offer health services or case management. They also often offer social services, like assistance with legal aids, identification services and help navigating government programs. Related: After foster care or homelessness, young adults can call this historic church home Good Samaritan CEO Dan Streeter said the plan for the drop-in center would place it at the 9th Street location but utilizing a separate entrance to a 2,500-square-foot area. The center would be open from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The space would feature a simplistic floor plan, he said, with each person given a 4-foot-by-4-foot space. The expectation is that the center would have space for 35 guests. He also noted the hope to work with local groups and agencies for mental health, physical health and other services. The only rules for guests, according to Streeter, would be no weapons and no drugs. Those with prior convictions would be permitted to use the center. Streeter said on most nights, the Good Samaritan shelter is at capacity. He said data shows 70% of residents are from Bay County 60% from the city. To prepare for having a drop-in center, Streeter and others visited other cities with similar facilities. He said there is still groundwork to be done and that services wouldnt be immediately available. I think while this isnt perfect, I think its going to meet some immediate needs as soon as they can get this rolling, Girard said. 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. HARRISON, MI A Michigan woman who sold her vehicle on New Years Day for several thousand dollars soon learned shed been duped the money the buyer gave her was bogus. The man accused of scamming the woman with the counterfeit cash, himself in the U.S. illegally, is facing two felonies. About 10:15 p.m. on Jan. 1, a Harrison woman met with Clare County Sheriffs deputies to report a theft. She told them shed listed her 2015 GMC Terrain for sale on Facebook Marketplace, eliciting a response from a man. The seller and prospective buyer agreed to meet at the womans home. The man met with the woman and gave her $3,600 in $100 bills, then drove away with the vehicle, deputies said. Shortly thereafter, the woman went to a gas station to make a purchase and a clerk used a counterfeit-detecting pen on some of the bills, determining they were fraudulent, deputies said. The woman who sold the Terrain tried contacting the buyer but he had deactivated his account, deputies said. Deputies confirmed all 36 of the $100 bills were bogus. They alerted police across the state to be on the lookout for the stolen vehicle. The next day, police spotted the Terrain driving in Three Rivers, within the Indiana-bordering St. Joseph County. Three Rivers is about 190 miles from Harrison. Three Rivers police pulled over the vehicle and arrested its passenger, 36-year-old Victor J. Telleria-Sanchez, believing he was the person who passed the counterfeit bills. Police further determined Telleria-Sanchez was a non-American citizen who was in the country illegally. He would not speak with law enforcement or state his country of origin, deputies confirmed. Three Rivers police arrested Telleria-Sanchez and notified Clare County Sheriffs deputies of his detention. Telleria-Sanchez was subsequently transferred to the Clare County Jail. Telleria-Sanchez on Jan. 3 was arraigned in Clare County District Court on single counts of larceny by false pretenses between $1,000 and $20,000 and uttering and publishing counterfeit notes. The charges are 15- and five-year felonies, respectively. The arraigning judge set Telleria-Sanchez bond at $50,000 cash-surety or 10%, though U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a detainer on him. LANSING, MI The Michigan Court of Appeals this week affirmed the decision of a Midland County Circuit Court judge denying Heron Cove Associations 2024 appeal of the special assessments rolls for the restoration and maintenance of the Four Lakes normal lake levels. The high court in an opinion dated Monday, Jan. 6, affirmed the June 2024 order of Judge Michael Beale confirming Gladwin and Midland counties lake level special assessment to restore and maintain lake levels in the Four Lakes Special Assessment District. We are very pleased that the Michigan Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of the circuit court. It confirms that FLTF and Gladwin and Midland counties followed the law, Dave Kepler, president of Four Lakes Task Force, wrote in a statement. This last year created uncertainty but its time to move forward and regain momentum in bringing the lakes back and restoring the quality of life for our lake communities. Related: Attorneys appeal judges ruling that would require residents to pay for part of Michigan dam repairs The Midland County Board of Commissioners and the Gladwin County Board of Commissioners appointed the Four Lakes Task Force as the authority to oversee the maintenance of normal lake levels for Wixom Lake, Sanford Lake, Smallwood Lake and Secord Lake and the Four Lakes Special Assessment District. The legal dispute stems from property taxes that would be used to rebuild four hydroelectric dams and to restore impoundments damaged by the 2020 mid-Michigan flood. Ultimately, it was determined that repairing, improving and replacing the four dams would cost nearly $400 million. The Task Force secured over $200 million in federal and state grants for the project but assessed that about 55% of the costs would be covered through special assessments levied on property owners in the Four Lakes Special Assessment District. The special assessment for lake-level maintenance would be collected in annual installments over 40 years, totaling approximately $217,700,000. A separate special assessment was created to cover operational and maintenance expenses for the system between 2025 and 2029. While this wraps up one legal chapter, others still exist for the task force. Officials said they hope to receive a decision soon from the U.S. Federal District Court in connection with two federal lawsuits filed by Heron Cove against the counties and FLTF that were largely based on the claims raised before the Michigan Court of Appeals. 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. For seven decades, the U.S.-South Korea alliance has been the linchpin of peace, security, and prosperity in Northeast Asia, the Indo-Pacific, and increasingly around the world, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken on a recent visit to the South Korea. Today, the alliance between the United States and Korea remains more essential than ever in shaping our shared future. And I believe it's also stronger than ever in taking on that task. We've enhanced ... our extended deterrence, the United States commitment to defend our allies with the full range of our conventional and nuclear capabilities, as well as our ability to coordinate and respond to DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] aggression, including through the nuclear consultative group. The United States together with Japan and the Republic of Korea has forged a partnership for peace and stability from the Korean Peninsula to the Taiwan Strait and become an engine of economic and technological progress, said Secretary Blinken: I believe it's in the strategic interest of each of our countries, not just to sustain this trilateral cooperation, but to grow it in the years ahead, particularly in an era when security in the Indo-Pacific and Europe is increasingly intertwined. Secretary Blinken warned about the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Indeed, in the last week of December, more than 1000 North Korean forces were killed and or wounded in the war in Ukraine. 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 and that [Vladimir] Putin may be close to reversing a decades long policy by Russia and accepting DPRK nuclear weapons program. The United States is now South Korea's second largest investor and largest goods exports market. In turn, South Korea has become a leading investor in the United States, committing more than $140 billion since 2021, from semiconductor plants in Michigan to solar facilities in Georgia. The U.S.-South Korea relationship is grounded not just in economic or security interests, but in our shared democratic values, said Secretary Blinken. I remain fully, strongly optimistic that the United States and South Korea will continue to go together into a future of our own making. ROTHBURY, MI -- The family of Kevin Graves, whose remains were discovered by hunters near the Electric Forest music festival grounds on Dec. 30, may never find the closure they seek. Im still trying to put the puzzle together, said Gary Graves, Kevin Graves' 80-year-old father. And I still cant get the right piece. That right piece -- what led to Kevin Graves' death -- may never be found. According to medical examiners who spoke with MLive, its often impossible to pinpoint a cause and manner of death when remains are fully skeletal. Theyre not going to have much to work with, said Kent County Medical Examiner Dr. Stephen D. Cohle, who is not working on the case but offered his opinion as an expert. As a forensic pathologist, you just do the best you can, eliminating what is eliminable or finding whats findable in the remains that you have, with the understanding that youre probably not going to find a specific cause of death. Related: No indications of foul play in death of man who vanished from Electric Forest in 2018 The remains of Kevin Graves were discovered a week ago on swampy, forested land near the 2,000-acre Double JJ Resort that hosts tens of thousands of campers each year for the Electric Forest music festival. A formal ruling on the cause and manner of death is expected to take at least four months, representatives for the medical examiners office said. A billboard seeking tips in the disappearance of 28-year-old Kevin Graves from the Electric Forest music festival in 2018 is located near the entrance to the festival. Investigators identified Kevin Graves using dental records. According to Kevin Graves' father, police said his phone, wallet and a music festival wristband were discovered with the remains by two hunters clearing land on private property near the festival grounds. The remains were skeletonized and were reported to have been found on the surface (of the ground) by the property owner, said Michigan Medical Examiner Group Administrator Lisa Kaspriak. A complete anthropological examination is being conducted. This involves visual inspections, including the use of a microscope to identify any abnormalities or signs of trauma. The Michigan Medical Examiner Group, which handles medical examiner and autopsy services for 15 counties, including Oceana, is overseeing the death investigation with assistance from the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine. Related: Police 99% sure remains found near Electric Forest are missing man Kevin Graves, father says Approximately 90% of the skeleton has been recovered, with portions of the extremities not present, Kaspriak said. Ongoing detailed analysis will continue to provide more clarity. The team hasnt fully completed processing the remains. Posters with information about Kevin Graves sit on a table Saturday in Rothbury while volunteers searched for Graves who went missing July 1. Mike Krebs, MLive.com Mike Krebs | MLive.comMike Krebs | MLive.com Graves was found on marshy land a few hundred yards from the road in the 6000 block of South Water Road, near the intersection of Clay in New Era. The property identified by the medical examiner is a 15-acre, rectangular parcel with cleared land, a residence and outbuildings on the east side, and is heavily wooded with visible ponds and standing water to the west, which covers about half of the property, according to satellite images and county land maps. While the medical examiners office provided an address, state police declined to confirm the location. At the request of property owners near the intersection of Clay and Water, we will not be releasing the exact location where remains were recovered, said state police spokesperson Michelle Robinson. According to Kevin Graves' family, he camped in a cleared field less than a half mile from where officials said the remains were discovered. When shown the location where the medical examiner said the remains were located, relative Ronald Ron Graves, who participated in more than a dozen searches following the disappearance, said he didnt recall looking in that area. He described other land he searched as a mixture of fields and thick, marshy woods with heavy undergrowth, including prickly wild grape vines. We were down on our hands and knees, because it was very thick and (we were) trying to get under the brush, Ronald Graves said. Gary Graves remembers volunteers becoming stuck while passing through some of the swampy, forested sections. One guy lost his shoes, Gary Graves said. Richard Smith searches for Kevin Graves in a wooded area Saturday near the Lucky Lake Campground in Rothbury. Mike Krebs, MLive.com Mike Krebs | MLive.comMike Krebs | MLive.com Whether a body is clothed, buried and if there is trauma to the bones contributes to whether homicide is suspected, but Michigan State Police in a Jan. 2 statement said there are no indications of foul play at this time. The terrain was not snow-covered at the time of recovery, as it occurred during a brief thaw period, Kaspriak said. The recovery process required deliberate efforts due to the environmental conditions and the nature of the location. Investigators plan to examine every bone for nicks, fractures or evidence that could indicate a pre-death injury. Kaspriak said that in general investigators are able to observe sharp-force trauma, potentially caused by a blade; damage to the hyoid bone or cervical vertebrae, which is sometimes associated with strangulation; and thermal damage indicative of being burned, among other possible clues. Several medical examiners told MLive four months to reach a conclusion is not exorbitant, considering the time required to catalog, clean and inspect each bone, along with awaiting potential toxicology and DNA test results. Related: Tipsters think missing man from Electric Forest may have joined cult Numerous theories have swirled since Kevin Graves disappeared after an argument with his then-girlfriend while attending the music festival. Among them: Kevin Graves joined a cult named the Twelve Tribes thats been spotted at the festival in past years, that he moved out west to work on a marijuana farm, that he overdosed on drugs, that he committed suicide, that he got stuck or injured and accidentally perished or was killed by someone. The Kent County Medical examiner said hell be surprised if a cause and manner of death can even be determined. While toxicology testing would be useful in determining whether Kevin Graves was intoxicated or potentially overdosed, Cohle said its extremely unlikely there is any remaining blood or tissue that is viable for testing. Toxicology is more limited in skeletonized remains because soft tissue, where most substances are stored, is absent, Kaspriak said. However, bone and hair, if present, can sometimes be analyzed for long-term drug or chemical exposure and chemicals that leach from the body into surrounding soil can sometimes provide evidence of substances present at the time of death. The music festival is associated with widespread drug use, including substances like LSD, MDMA, ketamine, marijuana and ecstasy, but also to a lesser extent, heroin and cocaine, based on interviews, reporter observations and past reviews of police reports related to the event. Witnesses said they observed Kevin Graves walking away after having an argument with his girlfriend on July 1, 2018. He was never seen or spoken to since. Kevin Graves and his girlfriend had dated for nearly two years and lived together in Oakland Countys Highland Township. Kevin Graves' girlfriend reported him missing to the Oakland County Sheriffs Office on July 3, 2018. The case is being investigated by Oakland County sheriffs detectives and state police, who assisted with search efforts near the festival. Gary Graves said, while hes long suspected his sons death, its been difficult for him and his wife, 67-year-old Kathy Graves, to reckon with the fact that there is no longer any hope that he is still alive. We were hoping one day hed come walking up the driveway, Gary Graves said. Kevin Graves enjoyed working on vehicles with his father, a mechanic, and was well-liked at his job working for a precision coating company at the time of his disappearance. Gary Graves described his son as a kind person who didnt like to take no for an answer. He loved everybody, his father said during an interview with MLive in 2023. He loved his mother and his sister. They were like that, Gary Graves said, clasping his hands together, like glue. With a lack of clarity as to what killed his son, Gary Graves said hes now living in state of confusion. Depending on the death investigation results, Gary Graves is preparing for the possibility hell never know the full truth. I guess well have to accept it, he said. What else can you do if you cant prove anything different. If youre an automotive enthusiasts, looking for a new car or want to take the family out for a day of fun, get tickets to the 2025 Detroit Auto Show. The 11-day event kicks off Friday, Jan. 10, with a Media Day and Charity Preview and will open to the general public Jan. 11. Stubhub and Vivid Seats have general admission tickets starting around $35. The show at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit runs through Jan. 20. Doors are open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. except Jan. 15 and 16 when public hours will run from 1-8 p.m. The show will feature a roster of 22 auto brands including Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, BMW, Honda and Mercedes-Benz. How to get tickets: Stubhub and Vivid Seats have tickets to the event. Detroit Auto Show Huntington Place in Detroit, MI Friday, Jan. 10 - Charity Preview Saturday, Jan. 11 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 - 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 - 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. We dont have any large-scale winter storm in the cards this work week here in Michigan. We do have a strong cold front that will march south across Michigan. The air behind the cold front will leave a bitter cold taste in our mouths. Eventually a widespread snow may sweep into Michigan late this weekend. The meaningful snow this work-week will all be confined to the lake-effect variety of snow. This means any heavy snow will fall from southwest Lower, west of Grand Rapids, northward along the Lake Michigan shoreline into the Grand Traverse region. The wind will be more northerly instead of west-northwest. The northerly wind keeps the lake-effect snow closer to Lake Michigan and not stretching far inland. Heres the radar forecast Tuesday to Sunday. Surface weather forecast from 7 a.m. Tuesday to 7 p.m. Sunday.NOAA I extended out the forecast to Sunday just to show you the next weather system which has been consistently showing up in the models. We may have a somewhat robust Alberta Clipper storm system by Sunday. An Alberta Clipper brings snow that easily blows and drifts. The exact inches of snow usually arent heavy, typically amounting to three to five inches of snow. We will wait until late in the weekend for that snow situation. The Tuesday night to Wednesday night lake-effect snow will be a three to six inch snow in the purple areas around Grand Traverse County, the Manistee area, the immediate southwestern shoreline and much of the Upper Peninsula. There will be small areas of up to 10 inches of snow embedded in the three to six inch snow area. Total snowfall forecast Tuesday-Wednesday, January 7-8, 2025NOAA What we all get in weather is a true late January feel. Here are the high temperatures each day from Tuesday to Sunday. The coldest days will be Wednesday and Thursday. High temperature forecast from Tuesday, January 7 to Sunday, January 12.NOAA Wednesday and Thursday will be mostly in the teens. January is our coldest month, but the normal high temperatures are still around 30 degrees. This week will have several days that will be 10 degrees to 15 degrees colder than normal. Temperatures will inch up toward 30 degrees for Thursday, Friday and Saturday before the Alberta Clipper arrives Sunday. This is a full week of true Michigan January weather. You dont get any break this week if you arent a winter lover. President Joe Biden, citing national security concerns, has blocked the sale of Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel of Japan. In a statement published January 3, President Biden said, A strong domestically owned and operated steel industry represents an essential national security priority and is critical for resilient supply chains. President Biden announced his decision to reject Nippon Steels offer after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, or CFIUS, made up of national security and trade experts across the executive branch, raised the potential of risks to U.S. national security and critical supply chains. We need major U.S. companies representing the major share of U.S. steelmaking capacity to keep leading the fight on behalf of Americas national interests, President Biden said. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre pointed to the unfair trade practices of the Peoples Republic of China as a key element in President Bidens decision to keep U.S. Steel a proud American company. As foreign competitors like China distort global steel markets through unfair trade practices, such as dumping and overproduction, it is critical that we have a strong domestic steel industry that protects our national security and our supply chains. Today, the president demonstrated once again that he will always act to protect the security of this nation, as well as the resilience of our supply. U.S. National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby emphasized that the Presidents decision to block the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel is not about Japan. This is about U.S. steelmaking and keeping one of the largest steel producers in the United States an American-owned company. It is not about the extraordinary, close relationship and alliance that we have with Japan. And the President has said so and made that clear to leaders in Japan on several occasions. In his statement President Biden declared, It is my solemn responsibility as President to ensure that, now and long into the future, America has a strong domestically owned and operated steel industry that can continue to power our national sources of strength at home and abroad. ... Todays action reflects my unflinching commitment to utilize all authorities available to me as President to defend U.S. national security. 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) Editor: WXY Volunteers serve free Laba porridge for sanitation workers in Haigang District of Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Cao Jianxiong/Xinhua) Staff members serve Laba porridge for passengers at Hefei South Railway Station in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu) Staff members serve Laba porridge for passengers at Hefei South Railway Station in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Xinhua/Zhou Mu) A teacher explains the knowledge of making Laba porridge to children at a kindergarten in Huai'an, east China's Jiangsu Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Yin Chao/Xinhua) Children learn to make Laba garlic, a vinegar-preserved green and slightly spicy dish, at a kindergarten in Qiaoxi District, Shijiazhuang, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Chen Qibao/Xinhua) Children paint garlic-themed toys at a kindergarten in Changxing County, Huzhou of east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Tan Yunfeng/Xinhua) Residents receive Laba porridge in Wuxing District of Huzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Yi Fan/Xinhua) A staff member serves free Laba porridge for citizens at a market in Ganzhou District of Zhangye, northwest China's Gansu Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Chen Li/Xinhua) Students draw festive patterns on a blackboard at a middle school in Zunhua, north China's Hebei Province, Jan. 6, 2025. Various activities were held across the country to welcome the upcoming Laba Festival that falls on Jan. 7 this year. (Photo by Liu Mancang/Xinhua) Editor: WXY The screenshot from a video shows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaking to media in Ottawa, Canada, on Jan. 6, 2025. Trudeau announced Monday morning he is stepping down after a party race while the opposition leader complained that nothing has changed. (Photo by Mick Gzowski/Xinhua) OTTAWA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday morning he is stepping down after a party race while the opposition leader complained that nothing has changed. Giving a speech outside his home at Rideau Cottage, Trudeau said he will stay on as Prime Minister until his successor is chosen. "I intend to resign as party leader and 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," Trudeau said. "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," Trudeau said. The prime minister said Governor General Mary Simon had granted his request to prorogue Parliament until March 24. "Nothing has changed," federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said on his social media, questioning what has changed with Trudeau's announcement. "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," said Poilievre, the official opposition leader. Trudeau is facing a revolt within his caucus and dismal public opinion polls, which indicate that his party is likely to be swept from power by Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives in an election, according to local media. The screenshot from a video shows Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaking to media in Ottawa, Canada, on Jan. 6, 2025. Trudeau announced Monday morning he is stepping down after a party race while the opposition leader complained that nothing has changed. (Photo by Mick Gzowski/Xinhua) Editor: JYZ 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) Editor: WXY Samir Jain is a Jaipur-based astrologer who has over 28 years of experience in the field of Astrology, Numerology, Palmistry and Vastu Shastra. He is also an expert in Jain Temple Vastu and Jain Jyotish. For more details, visit planetsastro.com, call/WhatsApp +91 8696930617 or email jainksamir@gmail.com. Neha Mewari USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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I Accept Rajni Pandey is a seasoned content creator with over 15 years of experience crafting compelling stories for digital news platforms. Specializing in diverse topics such as travel, education, jobs, science, wildlife, religion, politics, and astrology, she excels at transforming trending human-interest stories into engaging reads for a wide audience. Rajni 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. 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 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) Editor: WRX TANCET 2025 Notification to be Released on January 19 at tancet.annauniv.edu Archisha Yadav 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. 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I Accept Keerthy Suresh and Antony Thattil's Thailand honeymoon takes a turn as fans express concern over her illness 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 CARACAS, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Venezuelan government on Monday severed diplomatic relations with Paraguay and recalled its diplomatic personnel from the country in protest against Paraguayan President Santiago Pena's support for opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. "The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has decided, in full exercise of its sovereignty, to break diplomatic relations with the Republic of Paraguay and proceed with the immediate withdrawal of its accredited diplomatic personnel in that country," the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry stated in a communique. On Sunday, the Paraguayan president expressed his support for Gonzalez Urrutia via a phone call, reaffirming recognition of him as the "winner of the presidential elections in Venezuela," held on July 28, 2024. In response, the Venezuelan government "categorically rejected" Pena's statements, accusing the Paraguayan leader of disregarding "international law and the principle of non-intervention." Caracas reiterated its "commitment to the defense of democracy, peace, and the self-determination of peoples," adding that "no farce orchestrated by international fascism will undermine the resolve of a people in the construction of their own destiny." On Jan. 10, Nicolas Maduro is set to be sworn in as president for the 2025-2031 term following his victory in the recent elections. Editor: WRX When Zeenat Aman was denied to pay respects at husband Mazhar's funeral by his family: 'They wanted to punish me for...' 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. 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I Accept 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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I Accept Zomato stock plunges 5% after Jefferies downgrade to 'hold' as quick commerce competition heats up Vaibhavi Ranjan 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 Insurance and reinsurance brokers (excluding nonresident brokers) listed in the broker registry must register in the Insurance Intermediary Registry by March 31, 2025. This registry is managed by the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU). This requirement is stipulated in the NBU's Resolution No. 3 dated January 3, "On Approval of the Regulation on Authorization of Insurance Intermediaries and Conditions for Conducting Activities in Selling Insurance and/or Reinsurance Products," which came into effect on January 7. According to the resolution, the NBU began managing the Insurance Intermediary Registry (Intermediary Registry) from the date the resolution became effective, excluding the comprehensive information security system (CISS) in the registry. Until a broker is included in the Intermediary Registry, they are permitted to provide intermediary services based on information in the existing broker registry. 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I Accept Smriti Mishra 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 For the first time, Andamans primitive Jarawa tribe members feature in voter list 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 Maha Kumbh website draws millions of hits within days: Here's what it offers Sandeep Shrivastwa 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 Ukraine's international reserves increased by $3.863 billion, or 9.7%, in December, reaching $43.788 billion as of January 1, 2025, according to preliminary data from the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU). "In December 2024, they increased by 9.7% compared to November thanks to FX inflows from international partners, which exceeded the NBU's net FX sales and Ukraine's FX debt repayments," the NBU reported on its website on Tuesday. Over the past year, international reserves rose by $3.273 billion, or 8.1%. The NBU noted that net international reserves increased by $3.153 billion, or 12.2%, in December alone, and by $0.712 billion, or 2.5%, over the whole of 2024, reaching $29.094 billion. At the beginning of the year, the reserves' composition was as follows: 67.1% in securities, 27.6% in cash, correspondent accounts, and deposits, and 5.3% in monetary gold. A year earlier, the respective shares were 69.7%, 25.9%, and 4.4%. In December, Ukraine received a record $9.461 billion in foreign currency inflows to government accounts at the NBU, including $4.411 billion in macro-financial assistance from the EU, $3.935 billion from the World Bank (via DPL mechanisms funded by the United States, Japan, and the UK), and $1.089 billion from the IMF. At the same time, $0.133 billion was paid for servicing and repaying the public foreign currency debt, and $0.252 billion was paid to the IMF. Additionally, the NBU sold a record $5.309 billion on the foreign exchange market while purchasing only $0.4 million for reserves. "The NBU thus made $5.3085 billion in net FX sales in December, almost two times the level of November. The last month's increase in the central bank's interventions to sell foreign currency was primarily due to the traditional seasonal factor of higher budgetary spending and a pickup in business operations at the end of the year," the central bank explained. The NBU also reported that the revaluation of financial instruments added $92 million to reserves in December. "International reserves are now covering 5.5 months of future imports," the press release stated. Over the entire year, Ukraine received approximately $42 billion in global financial assistance. The largest contributions came from the EU ($17.5 billion), the United States ($6.8 billion), the World Bank ($6.1 billion), the IMF ($5.3 billion), Japan ($4.3 billion), and Canada ($1.8 billion). Additionally, the country raised over $3.5 billion through foreign currency-denominated government bonds. According to the NBU, this, combined with international aid, allowed Ukraine to offset its foreign currency public debt servicing and repayment ($6.7 billion), IMF payments ($3.4 billion), and the NBU's net foreign currency sales ($34.8 billion). These interventions were aimed at addressing structural deficits in the foreign exchange market and smoothing excessive exchange rate fluctuations under managed flexibility. The reserves were also bolstered to a sufficient level to maintain exchange rate stability going forward. As previously reported, the NBU revised its forecast for international reserves at the end of 2024-2026 upward by $2.4-3.7 billion in late October. According to its updated projections, reserves were expected to grow to $43.6 billion by the end of 2024 but decrease to $41 billion in 2025. 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. 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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 Two suspected cases of HMPV virus in Nagpur; States asked to strengthen respiratory disease surveillance 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 What is Bharatpol and how will it help India tackle international crime? 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 Akshayy S Nanda is Partner, Saraf and Partners. 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. 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 reacts to old interview of Dalai Lama with Indian-origin journalist amid immigration debate Shubhi Mishra 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 If given financial security, 99% Indians won't show up to work: Bombay Shaving Company CEO Ankita Sengupta 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 Senior Railways officer shares heartfelt post for cleaning staff member on retirement day: 'Indebted to him' Shubhi Mishra 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 JSC Energy Company of Ukraine (ECU) is developing a special division to provide support for the construction of distributed generation in the regions, CEO of the company Vitaliy Butenko has said. "Now at ECU we are developing a special division that will focus on comprehensive support for the development of distributed generation in the regions (...). Already in January, we are planning meetings with communities to determine a list of common pilot projects for implementation. Having worked them out, we will be able to scale up this model of cooperation at the level of other communities in the country," Butenko said in a blitz interview with Energy Reform portal. According to him, the ECU team, which cooperates with national and foreign investors, already has significant experience in supporting new energy projects, which can help communities. "When we analyzed the problems with creating distributed generation in communities that bear key responsibility for critical infrastructure and people, we saw a much greater demand. Not only for support in the commercial part, but for full support of projects, including financial, regulatory and technical aspects," the ECU head said. Regarding the payment for ECU services, Butenko said such assistance cannot be financially burdensome for communities, but the company's expenses must also be compensated. "Therefore, we see our task as providing such solutions to communities that will allow them not only to be provided with electricity, but also to receive additional income from the operation of the equipment. When the project earns money for itself, this will cover the operating costs of both parties," Butenko said. As reported, on December 19, the Energy Company of Ukraine, the SIGRE-Ukraine association, and the Association of Small Towns of Ukraine signed a memorandum of cooperation in developing distributed generation in the regions. In October, ECU's Head Butenko said the company intends to occupy the niche of a state operator of distributed generation to help utilities and cities with its launch and operation. Biden 'doing everything possible' to make transition difficult: Donald Trump 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 Sandeep Shrivastwa 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 Swap deal: Biden administration in talks with Taliban for return of Americans captured in 2022 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 What are 'Pakistani grooming gangs' and why Elon Musk is bashing UK PM Keir Starmer over them Armaan Bhatnagar 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 Sheetal Kumari 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. 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 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 Infosys provides route map to trainees as leopard remains elusive on Mysuru campus 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_ 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 India sees one of the lowest supply of hotels in FY24; average room rates to touch new highs Maryam Farooqui is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol covering media and entertainment, travel and hospitality. She has 11 years of experience in reporting. Maryam Farooqui 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 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. Export of goods from Ukraine in 2024 increases by 15.6%, import by 11.3% service Export of goods from Ukraine in 2024 increased by 18.5% compared to 2023, from $36 billion to $41.6 billion, while import increased by 11.3%, from $63.5 billion to $70.7 billion, the State Customs Service said on Tuesday. As a result, according to its data, Ukraine's foreign trade turnover last year increased by 13% compared to 2023, to $112.3 billion. At the same time, taxable imports amounted to $57.4 billion, or 81% of the total volume of imported goods. The tax burden per 1 kg of taxable imports increased by 5% per year to $0.51 per kg. According to the published data, Ukraine imported the most goods from China for $14.4 billion (in 2023 for $10.4 billion), Poland for $7 billion ($6.6 billion) and Germany for $5.4 billion ($4.9 billion), while it exported the most to Poland for $4.7 billion, Spain for $2.9 billion and Germany for $2.8 billion. As reported, in 2023, the top three countries importing products from Ukraine were Poland, Romania and China. In the total volume of goods imported in 2024, some 65% (as in 2023) were vehicles, chemical products and fuel and energy products. In particular, machinery, equipment and transport were imported for $25 billion against $19.8 billion the previous year. During their customs clearance, UAH 172.3 billion, or 29% of customs payments, were paid to the budget. Chemical goods were imported for $11.7 billion against $11 billion in 2023 (UAH 87.7 billion, or 15% of customs payments, were paid to the budget), fuel and energy products for $8.9 billion against $10.3 billion (UAH 157.6 billion, or 27% of customs payments, were paid). The top three most exported goods last year included food products with $24.6 billion (in 2023 with $21.8 billion), metals and its products with $4.4 billion ($3.9 billion), as well as machinery, equipment and transport with $3.5 billion ($2.9 billion). The State Customs Service said during customs clearance of export goods for which an export duty is established, UAH 311.3 million was paid to the budget in 2024. Photo: https://x.com/generalkellogg Donald Trump's future special representative for Ukraine Keith Kellogg has postponed his familiarization trip to Kyiv and other European capitals until the inauguration of the U.S. president-elect, Reuters reports. According to the agency, the visit has been postponed. Kellogg is now expected to visit Ukraine after Trump takes office, although the date has not yet been determined. It is currently unclear why the official from the future administration of the newly elected U.S. president is postponing the trip. According to the publication, retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, who is to become Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, initially planned to travel to Kyiv in early January. The team also organized meetings with officials in other European capitals, including Rome and Paris. The inauguration of the president-elect will take place on January 20. Russian troops occupied the village of Lozova in Kharkiv region on the night of January 7, the DeepState portal reports. "The enemy occupied Lozova and is trying to advance to Nova Kruhliakivka," the report says. It is also reported that the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, released footage of the defeat of an enemy column that was carrying out assault operations 2.05 km east of the village of Nova Kruhliakivka. After a certain lull, the enemy becomes more active in different areas. Lozova is a village in Ukraine, in the southern part of Kharkiv region, the center of the eponymous district. On Monday evening, the General Staff reported that in Kharkiv direction, Ukrainian troops repelled three enemy attacks in the Vovchansk area. In the Kupiansk direction, the enemy three times stormed the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Synkivka, Petrovpavlivka and Zahryzove. Jacqueline Thinom-Pong, left, and Hideichi Mori complete a survey for a resident in the Gill Breeze subdivision of Yigo on Jan. 27, 2023. A resident survey is part of the point-in-time count done by the Guam Homeless Coalition and volunteers. The Armed Forces of Ukraine have been conducting an operation in Kursk region for five months now, which is forcing the Russians to transfer significant forces to this direction, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports. According to the General Staff, in the five months since the beginning of the Kursk operation, the enemy's total losses in this direction amounted to more than 38,000, of which about 15,000 were killed. They also reported that the operation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine began on August 6, 2024 and became the next stage of countering Russian aggression. For the first time in 11 years of war, hostilities were transferred to the territory of the Russian Federation. It is reported that the main goal of the operation was to prevent the enemy's advance in Sumy region and create a "buffer zone." It also forced the Russian occupiers to transfer significant resources to Kursk region, weakening their positions in other areas of the front. "Russia was forced to urgently ask North Korea for help, which sent almost 12,000 of its soldiers to the Russian Federation. About 4,000 of them have already been eliminated, and some units have lost combat capability," the General Staff noted. Ukrainian fighters destroyed, in particular, 104 tanks, 575 armored combat vehicles, 1,104 vehicles, 330 artillery systems, 12 MLRS, 12 air defense systems, one aircraft, three helicopters, 859 drones, and 32 units of special equipment. "During the operation, Ukrainian forces captured 860 Russian soldiers, significantly replenishing the exchange fund. This allowed hundreds of Ukrainian defenders who were in Russian prisons to return home," the General Staff emphasized. President Emmerson Mnangagwas spokesperson, George Charamba, has vehemently denied reports of his dismissal from office, dismissing rumours circulating online following a recent significant reshuffle within the Zimbabwean government. The speculation, which gained traction on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), suggested Charamba had been either fired or was on leave. The rumours began swirling after a series of high-profile changes in President Mnangagwas cabinet and security sector. These changes included the reassignment of July Moyo to the Ministry of Energy and Edgar Moyo to the Labour and Public Service portfolio. Significantly, President Mnangagwa also replaced both the Police Commissioner General and the Director-General of the Central Intelligence Organisation, appointing Stephen Mutamba and Fulton Mangwanya respectively. These appointments followed President Mnangagwas earlier comments to ZBC News hinting at the dismissal of underperforming government officials in the new year. One report even claimed that Charamba had been forcibly retired, citing pressure from President Mnangagwas family, including his wife Auxillia and sons, to remove the 82-year-old spokesperson. This report further alleged that Charamba was now residing at his farm. However, Charamba took to X on Monday to directly address the speculation, stating: I am not on holiday, has never been in the last decade or so. Currently I am the Acting Chief Secretary until 10th January when I pass on the acting baton to Reverend Damasane. In view of developments in the Region, I am unlikely to go on leave at all. All it takes is asking, guys. That, in essence, is the pith of news gathering. Zvinganetsa here izvozvo??? Charambas clarification came after a period of intense online debate fuelled by the government reshuffle. Social media platforms became a breeding ground for unsubstantiated claims, with many users alleging Charambas forced retirement. Popular social media personality Majaira Jairos tweeted: Im told George Charamba was actually fired and this would be the first time that Mnangagwa has listened to the masses, if its true. Charamba had become an old-fashioned speech writer, full of toxin, in a modern world which appreciates political correctness. Adding to the online chatter, exiled former Cabinet minister and ex CIO agent Saviour Kasukuwere also weighed in, posting on X: Charamba, Mhofu Maswerasei. Paita Shumba panze! Musabuda pazhe, (Charamba, old man Maswerasei. A lion is outside! Dont come out). Kasukuweres comments, along with Charambas conspicuous absence from X for a period, only served to intensify the speculation. Charambas long career, which includes serving as spokesperson for the late President Robert Mugabe, has been marked by controversy. His outspoken nature and often undiplomatic language have made him a polarising figure, attracting both staunch supporters and fierce critics. He has publicly criticised various individuals and entities, including former US Ambassador to Zimbabwe Brian Nichols, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, former Botswana President Ian Khama, and the US and British governments. He has also clashed with The Elders, a respected group of global leaders. The speculation surrounding Charambas alleged dismissal highlights the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile figures in Zimbabwean politics and the significant role social media plays in shaping public perception and disseminating, often unverified, information. Breaking News via Email Related Zimbabwe Latest News Pin Share Share 0 Shares By Lambert Strether of Corrente My answer to the question in the headline: I dont know. But I do think its an interesting question, and this post explains how I came to ask it. (To clarify terms, not always used clearly: xAI is an AI (Artificial Intelligence); XAI Corp., allied with Elon Musks X, is the Nevada business entity that owns and develops xAI; and Grok is the chatbot with which you, the user, interact with xAI.[1]) At least on the iPad, the Grok affordance appears on the screen like this: This screenshot illustrates a dark-ish pattern, because its very easy to fat-finger the weird, derrick-like Grok logo at top right instead of the horizontal ellipsis for more options (like muting or reporting). This I in fact did today, after successfully avoiding Grok for many days, and an interchange on Musks adolescent fantasy about colonizing MR SUBLIMINAL Dread word Mars a fantasy I would love to stomp on and grind into the earth, but not today, as Arya says ensued, followed by the interchange I am about to present, transcribed, which might have been expected to mention XAI Corps corporate structure, but did not. Oddly. (The headline reads as it does because I could not bear to write xAIs Grok Does Not Reveal that XAI Corp is a Public Benefit Corporation; see initial parenthetical.) Let me caveat that I feel I am simultaneously juggling two flaming chainsaws AI and corporate structure but that I hope to survive by keeping things very simple and scope very limited (none of this what is intelligence, really? for me. Not today). My interchange with Grok I refuse to say conversation was an interesting experience; after sizing Grok up, I came to feel very much like a lawyer attempting to trap a clever and elusive hostile witness into an admission against interest, or Detective Frank Pembleton pushing a suspect to confess in The Box.[2] Be that as it may, I shifted the Mars interchange to an interchange weighing the question of whether XAIs owners would bias xAIs training sets to be pro-Mars colonization. xAI responded that it was XAIs interest and desire that xAI to be unbiased. We pick up the interchange there; I have annotated it with lettered notes, thus: [A]. As you can see, there are two questions; the first one contains an enormous typo, but yields userful data anyhow; the second is the question I meant to ask originally. To the transcripts! * * * First Question While its true that xAI[A] is passionate about Mars colonization, the broader mission to assist in understanding the universe would be better served by creating an AI like me[B] that provides a balanced, comprehensive view of knowledge, thereby enhancing both the scientific process and public trust. Then in essence, you urge that xAIs owners seek [sic] reputational damage? Answer Not at all. My explanation isnt urging xAIs owners to seek reputational damage; rather, its highlighting that maintaining an unbiased approach in AI development and data curation is key to: Building Trust: An unbiased AI garners trust from users, scientists, and the public, enhancing xAIs reputation rather than damaging it. Achieving Mission Goals: xAIs mission to advance human scientific discovery[C] would be better served by an AI that reflects a broad, accurate understanding of the world, not just a narrow interest. Ensuring Long-term Viability: A reputation for providing reliable, unbiased information positions xAI as a leader in AI for scientific discovery, ensuring longevity and influence in the field. Navigating Regulatory Environments: With AI ethics and regulations becoming more stringent, an unbiased approach helps in compliance and avoids potential legal or ethical controversies. Fostering Innovation: By not limiting the AI to one viewpoint, xAI encourages a culture of innovation where diverse ideas can be explored, potentially leading to breakthroughs in various scientific domains. Reputational damage would come from the opposite approachwhere the AI is seen as a tool for promoting specific corporate interests over providing genuine, helpful insights. By focusing on an unbiased model, xAI can: Avoid Bias Accusations: Prevent accusations of manipulating data or AI outputs for corporate gain. Enhance Credibility: Credibility in science and tech is built on objectivity, and an unbiased AI enhances xAIs standing in these communities. Support Public Good: Theres a growing expectation for tech companies to contribute to public good[D], which includes providing tools that serve the broader community, not just corporate agendas[E]. In essence, Im arguing that an unbiased approach is a strategic choice for reputation management, ensuring that xAI[F] is seen as a valuable, ethical contributor to the scientific community and beyond[G]. [A] Anthropomophization and category confusion is rife in the AI discourse; xAI, being disembodied bytes, cannot be passionate about anything; XAI Corp. might be said to be, if we take the corporation, XAI, as a synecdoche for corporeally passionate owners, employees, associates, etc. [B] Anthropomophization and category confusion is rife [C] From the xAI About page: xAI is a company working on building artificial intelligence to accelerate human scientific discovery. We are guided by our mission to advance our collective understanding of the universe. xAI, via Grok, gets XAI Corps mission wrong; advance is not the same as accelerate, any more than velocity is the same as speed. [D] Growing trend is flat-out wrong, if not deceptive: XAI Corp is (said to be) incorporated in Nevada as a public benefit corporation, as reported on December 27, 2023 (reported also in these four additional sources: here, here, here, and here). From SSRN: The Public Benefit Corporation (PBC) is a new corporate form that allows the corporation to identify its objectives in terms of broader social or environmental responsibility rather than focusing exclusively on profit maximization. From Nevada Secretary of State: Benefit corporations, governed by NRS Chapter 78B, are for profit entities that consider the society and environment in addition to fiduciary goals in their decision-making process, differing from traditional corporations in their purpose, accountability, and transparency. The purpose of a benefit corporation is to create general public benefit, which is defined in 78B.040 as a material positive impact on society and the environment, taken as a whole, as assessed against a third-party standard, from the business and operations of a benefit corporation. Or from the Nevada Bar in more folksy terms: All else being equal, would you rather buy shoes from a department store or a company that donates a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased? So, to contribute to public good isnt something that XAI Corp. chooses to do, as some sort of hand-wave-y response to growing expectation; its something XAI Corp must do, as part of its corporate charter, on file with the Nevada Secretary of State. So why doesnt xAI mention this? More concretely, why were the five sources I list omitted from xAIs training sets, or if they were not omitted, suppressed? Or, if they were not suppressed, butchered by xAIs algorithms? Since its totally irresponsible to speculate, I will confine my musings to a note[3]. [E] Once again, its not a matter of an agenda, but something XAI Corp is legally bound to do. [F] More anthropomorphization, if the company is meant. [G] Grok is quite prolix. It had not hitherto occurred to me that the ability to perform a Gish Gallop would be one way to pass the Turing test. Second Questiom I said naive and you must have been waiting for me to get around to it. Here we go: My mistake. I meant to write Then in essence, you urge that xAIs owners seek to avoid reputational damage? Answer Yes, thats correct. In essence, Im urging that xAIs owners seek to avoid reputational damage by ensuring that my training sets are curated in an unbiased manner, reflecting a broad and accurate understanding of human knowledge rather than just their specific interests. This approach: Promotes trust and credibility among users and the scientific community. Aligns with ethical AI practices, which are increasingly important in the tech industry. Supports xAIs broader mission of accelerating human scientific discovery across various fields. Helps in navigating regulatory landscapes and public expectations regarding transparency and fairness in AI. By doing so, xAI can maintain and even enhance its reputation while fulfilling its mission effectively[A] . [A] xAIs response seems to assume that the owners and officers of firms always act in the interests of the firms they own or control; its almost as if xAI was slave to some defunct economist! As Bill Blacks work on accounting control fraud shows, this assumption is naive in the extreme. It leads to the assumption that firms ideally self-regulate without intervention by the State. Here is Alan Greenspan on the hotseat in 2008, after the Great Financial Crash (so exhaustively covered by Naked Capitalism; among many): CHAIRMAN WAXMAN. Dr. Greenspan, I am going to interrupt you. The question I had for you is you had an ideology. You had a belief that free, competitiveand this is shownyour statement, I do have an ideology. My judgment is that free, competitive markets are by far the unrivaled way to organize economies. We have tried regulation, none meaningfully worked. That was your quote. You have the authority to prevent irresponsible lending practices that led to the subprime mortgage crisis. You were advised to do so by many others. Now, our whole economy is paying its price. You feel that your ideology pushed you to make decisions that you wish you had not made? MR GREENSPAN. Well, remember, though, whether or not ideology is, is a conceptual framework with the way people deal with reality. Everyone has one. You have to. To exist, you need an ideology. The question is, whether it exists is accurate or not. What I am saying to you is, yes, I found a flaw , I dont know how significant or permanent it is, but I have been very distressed by that fact. But if I may, may I just finish an answer to the question- CHAIRMAN WAXMAN. You found a flaw? MR GREENSPAN. I found a flaw in the model that I perceived is the critical functioning structure that defines how the world works, so to speak. MR GREENSPAN. In other words, you found that your view of the world, your ideology, was not right, it was not working . Mr. Greenspan. Precisely . In fact, Greenspans central dogma in describing the operation of free, competitive markets seems to be the threat of reputational damage making neoliberalisms atomized individuals unable to truck and barter. This flaw goes right back to Greenspans salad days in 2003. From The Objectivist Newsletter: [I]t is in the self-interest of every businessman to have a reputation for honest dealings and a quality product. Since the market value of a going business is measured by its money-making potential, reputation or good will is as much an asset as its physical plant and equipment. Reputation, in an unregulated economy, is thus a major competitive tool It requires years of consistently excellent performance. to acquire a reputation and to establish it as a financial asset. Protection of the consumer by regulation is thus illusory. Rather than isolating the consumer from the dishonest businessman., it is gradually destroying the only reliable protection the consumer has: competition for reputation. From Greenspan at the 2004 Financial Markets Conference of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Sea Island, Georgia: We should not be surprised then to see a re-emergence of the market value placed on trust and personal reputation in business practice. After the revelations of corporate malfeasance, the market punished the stock prices of those corporations whose behaviors had cast doubt on the reliability of their reputations. In a market system based on trust, reputation has a significant economic value. I am therefore distressed at how far we have let concerns for reputation slip in recent years. Reputation and the trust it fosters have always appeared to me to be the core attributes required of competitive markets. Laws at best can prescribe only a small fraction of the day-by-day activities in the marketplace. When trust is lost, a nations ability to transact business is palpably undermined. From Greenspan at Georgetown University in 2008: In a market system based on trust, reputation has a significant economic value, he said. I am therefore distressed at how far we have let concerns for reputation slip in recent years. The flaw, in my view, as Bill Black understood and xAI, or at least its training sets and algorithms, do not is that the interests of invididuals and firms can diverge. Thats what accounting control fraud is all about. If an owner or a CEO or a manager thinks they can get away clean with a big sack of cash over their shouder, the reputation of the firm can fend for itself. To put this another way: If, oh, somebody very high up at xAI felt that that an AI with biased training sets especially after having established in the public mind that the training sets were not biased would achieve a great personal objective say, paving the royal road to Mars, or winning an election would those training sets be biased? Of course they would. The analogy to accounting control fraud is exact. NOTES [1] When you consider that data from X, combined with data from some server owned by XAI Corp., may be flowing through xAI and out through Grok to you, and your chat with Grok may be flowing in the opposite direction, you can see that technically and institutionallly the distinctions are not as clear as I falsely made them out to be. [2] If in fact AIs are ever evolved into personality construct, this experience with humans they call the Turing test a test for a reason is likely to shape what we might all their worldview. [3] Let me list a few anomalies. First, B Lab awards the B corporation certification for for-profit organizations. Yet XAI Corp. is not listed there. Sadly, Nevadas business portal does not support a search on public benefit corporations as a subytpe of domestic corporations (organized under chapter 78, which XAI is). Again sadly, we do not have XAIs actual articles of incorporation. Desperate, I asked Grok for it. The response: Too bad some enterprising reporter hasnt asked for it. Or perhaps XAI Corp. could add its own articles of incorporation to its own training sets. FInally, NRS 78B.170 requires a public benefit report to sent to each shareholder within 120 days following the end of the fiscal year of the benefit corporation or at the same time that the benefit corporation delivers any other annual report to its shareholders. Since the XAI Corp. filing was March 9, 2023, its probably too soon to expect it to appear. Something to look forward to! What Would Becky Buy? Los Angeles Review of Books. Anthony L: I think I lost my faith when they started bringing acoustic guitars into the Mass. Operation Nietzsche Commonweal Magazine (Anthony L) Superfast diamond-laced computer chips now much closer to reality thanks to quantum breakthrough LiveScience Newsom takes aim at dyes and ultraprocessed foods, long criticized by RFK Jr. Washington Examiner Experts issue warning over oat milk dairy alternative linked to health harm while semi-skimmed cows milk boasts surprising benefit Daily Mail #COVID-19/Pandemics Very different to COVID-19: What to know about the HMPV outbreak in China SBS Australia (Kevin W) Health officials downplayed COVID risk by overemphasizing "underlying health conditions," leading many to drop their guard. Most people have "underlying health conditions." Anyone can be vulnerable. Everyone should take precautions. They are minimizing bird flu in the same way. Dr. Lucky Tran (@luckytran) January 7, 2025 Long COVID Breakthrough: Spike Proteins Persist in Brain for Years(German study/earlier post) but now with a New Year's disappointment for anti-vaxxers: "Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine significantly reduces the accumulation of spike protein in the brain."https://t.co/IOo8VMwJt7 Harry Spoelstra (@HarrySpoelstra) January 6, 2025 Climate/Environment Biden Bans New Oil and Gas Drilling Along Most U.S. Coasts New York Times (Kevin W) China? Koreas Africa Weve all seen Macrons recent strategy of positioning himself as the provider of straight talk and unfiltered truth regarding the relationship between African nations and France. Clearly, hes targeting a specific audience in the international community. But if African RDC ElokoYaMakasi (@botelema) January 6, 2025 Too many ways to die: inside Sudans forgotten war The Times O Canada European Disunion Old Blighty Israel v. The Resistance New Not-So-Cold War Turkiye Turkeys carrier battlegroup takes shape Asia Times (Kevin W) Syraqistan Big Brother is Watching You Watch Apple auto-opts everyone into having their photos analyzed by AI for landmarks The Register (Paul R). Confirming my reflex to never never never never never never log in to Apple ID (as in synch to their cloud) or update any OS until absolutely necessary. I cannot stand this business model that equipment I buy outright is treated as jointly owned by the vendor. Used Meta AI to edit a selfie, now instagram is using my face on ads targeted at me reddit (Paul R) Imperial Collapse Watch Global Economy Braces for 1930s-Style Unilateralism Bloomberg US staggers into 2025 buffeted by week of attacks and looming political violence Guardian Please click through to read the full tweet (hat tip Chuck L). This could as easily be a Class Warfare item, but it illustrates how systems and processes are breaking down and how people are getting chewed up as a result: How badly broken is the Department of Transportation? Worse than even I imagined. Today, a maritime academy classmate with called me and said, one hand the secret ship captain signal for I need immediate help. His voice was raw. This wasnt about the seait was about his John Konrad V (@johnkonrad) January 5, 2025 U.S. Postal Service worker fatally stabbed inside New York City deli, reportedly over food dispute NBC. More loss of impulse control. We see this at the top of the food chain with the new normal of talk/news show hosts talking over or even yelling down guests Trump 2.0 BadAss Grandmas Pushed for an Ethics Commission. Then the North Dakota Legislature Limited Its Power. ProPublica (Robin K) Immigration Even the best Computer Science graduates with a 4.0 GPA can't get a job in tech pic.twitter.com/9sqzJznEV7 Fifty Shades of Whey (@davenewworld_2) January 2, 2025 Our No Longer Free Press U.S. District Judge rejects "Jews at Haverford" lawsuit over alleged antisemitism on college campus: "I reject Plaintiff's embedded proposition that any anti-Israel speech is intrinsically antisemitic, because reasonable people acting in good faith can challenge decisions of the https://t.co/xDqGtERoo1 AIPAC Tracker (@TrackAIPAC) January 6, 2025 Paper Cuts Washington Post. More layoffs. Collapsing Empire: RIP CIA Fronts Overt Operations Kit Klarenberg: In recent months, a remarkable development in the Empires decline has gone almost entirely unnoticed. The National Endowment for Democracys grant database has been removed from the web. Until recently, a searchable interface allowed visitors to view detailed records of Washington-funded NGOs, civil society groups, and media projects in particular countries covering most of the world the sums involved, and entities responsible for delivering these initiatives. This resource has now inexplicably vanished, and with it, enormous amounts of incontrovertible, self-incriminating evidence of destructive US skullduggery abroad. The Bezzle Where the next financial crisis could emerge Financial Times. The unknown here is how much is held by investors who are payment systems players (banks, securities firm) v. big investors like pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. If virtually all the latter, the result of large losses or failure of these funds to pay out would be zombification due to loss of fund wealth and thus income/assets of end beneficiaries. If there is non-trivial payment systems/dealer exposure (say via some of these deep pockets providing financial guarantees that proved to be no good due to losses on private debt funds), then we could see a good old fashioned crisis. More on the above topic: Easy money from risky loans. What could go wrong? Seattle Times Tesla is now fighting for its future Telegraph Class Warfare Americans are taught FDR was the hero of the Great Depression. For one historian, thats erasure Guardian (Kevin W) I'm a subject matter expert in a couple different fields and highly capable in numerous others, all essential to private and public sector stability and economic security. My network is strong and my performance speaks for itself. Yet, it is still an absolute grind to hustle https://t.co/GKE0vR2JEE HUNTSMAN (@maphumanintent) January 6, 2025 Antidote du jour (Tracie H): And a bonus (guurst): . pic.twitter.com/y3KOuLq38X (@ehbymuY80nTJqxe) January 1, 2025 See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/ Ukrainian defenders shot down 28 Shahed-type attack UAVs and other types of drones on the night of Tuesday, the Ukrainian Air Force reported on its Telegram channel. "As of 09:00, the downing of 28 Shahed-type attack UAVs and other types of drones has been confirmed in Poltava, Sumy, Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Kherson and Kirovohrad regions. No hits were recorded," the report says. In addition, ten enemy drone imitators were lost to location (without negative consequences), and three of them flew in the direction of Russia. As noted, on the night of January 7, 2025 (from 19.30 on January 6), the enemy attacked with 38 Shahed-type strike UAVs and various types of drone imitators from the directions of Millerovo, Kursk, Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Russia). The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare units, mobile fire groups of the Air Force and the Defense Forces of Ukraine. Health Ranger Report: Mike Adams and Brian Festa discuss the LEGAL BATTLE for teachers rights and religious freedom We The Patriots USA (WTP USA) is defending kindergarten teacher Mirella Ramirez, who was fired for refusing to use preferred pronouns in the classroom. The case focuses on the constitutional right to free speech and religious freedom, not just transgender issues. Ramirez, a devout Catholic, argues that using certain pronouns conflicts with her religious beliefs and represents forced indoctrination. The case examines whether teachers should be compelled to implement educational policies that violate their religious or moral convictions. Brian Festa, lead attorney for WTP USA, emphasizes that the state's actions against Ramirez amount to compelled speech. This has implications for teachers' rights to refuse implementing controversial curricula, such as those related to gender transition, CRT, DEI and LGBT topics. The case could set a precedent for balancing the rights of students and parents against the religious and moral rights of educators. It may provide legal backing for teachers to refuse to implement policies they find objectionable, preventing forced indoctrination in public schools. WTP USA is committed to fighting for individual and family rights against state coercion, aiming to protect individuals from compelled speech and ensure religious freedom. In a groundbreaking legal case, We The Patriots USA (WTP USA) is defending kindergarten teacher Mirella Ramirez, who was fired from her job for refusing to use preferred pronouns in the classroom. The case is not just about transgender issues but about the constitutional right to free speech and religious freedom. Ramirez, a devout Catholic, argued that being compelled to use certain pronouns conflicts with her religious beliefs and constitutes a form of forced indoctrination. The legal action taken by WTP USA pivots around the principle that no one should be compelled by the state to speak in a way that violates their religious or moral convictions. The case, which centers on a kindergarten teacher refusing to affirm a child's gender transition in a public-school setting, raises critical questions about teachers' rights and religious freedoms in the face of growing demands for gender transition policies in schools. (Related: Free speech being destroyed by gender Nazis wearing black robes as court rules AGAINST professor who refused to address student with trans pronouns.) "This case isn't really about transgenderism, and whether we agree with it or not, that's not what this case is about. It's about free speech and religious freedom," WTP USA co-founder and lead attorney Brian Festa told the Health Ranger Mike Adams during a recent episode of the "Health Ranger Report." Festa stressed that the government cannot force someone to affirm something they believe is against their religion. Given this, the state's actions against Ramirez amount to compelled speech, an issue that has profound implications for both individual liberties and the separation of church and state. WTP USA seeks to protect teachers from being forced to implement policies against their religious beliefs The WTP USA vice president argued that the precedent set by this case could protect teachers from being forced to implement educational policies that violate their religious beliefs, including controversial curricula focused on gender transition, CRT (critical race theory), DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) and LGBT topics. The 30-page complaint filed by WTP USA on behalf of Ramirez highlights multiple instances where the teacher was coerced into using preferred pronouns and participating in activities that conflicted with her Catholic faith, including referring to a female student as a boy and allowing access to the boys' bathroom. Festa noted that the district's proposed accommodations still violated Ramirez's religious convictions, as they required her to acknowledge the student's gender transition in some way. Thus, teachers should be protected if they refuse to implement curriculum that violates their religious or moral principles. As the case proceeds, it has the potential to set a precedent for how teachers and state actors balance the rights of students and parents against the religious and moral rights of educators. It could also provide teachers with the legal backing to refuse to implement policies that they find morally or religiously objectionable, paving the way for broader protections against forced indoctrination in public schools. Supporters and religious advocacy groups are closely watching this case, hoping it will help set a legal framework that ensures the rights of teachers to adhere to their faith and protect them from compelled speech. 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: Jason Fyk: Free speech lawsuits filed by Bollingers and Mike Adams highlight governments CENSORSHIP ARSENAL. UN declares war on FREE SPEECH to censor the TRUTH, subvert accountability, control populations. Breaking: International governments are criminalizing free speech through global coordination; new files expose plot. Sources include: Brighteon.com WeThePatriotsUSA.org GlobeNewswire.com Was the Biden White House complicit in a COVID origins cover-up? U.S. intelligence officials reportedly silenced Pentagon researchers who found compelling evidence suggesting COVID-19 likely leaked from a Wuhan lab, raising questions about a coordinated cover-up to protect the Biden administration. Three Defense Intelligence Agency scientists uncovered data supporting the lab leak theory, including evidence of a biological feature enabling easier human transmission and a Chinese military researchers early COVID-19 vaccine patent application. The scientists findings were omitted from a 2021 intelligence report ordered by President Biden, which instead concluded the virus was probably not genetically engineered, and they were allegedly barred from sharing their research with Congress or the public. The FBIs exclusion from White House briefings and the CIAs neutral stance on the viruss origins suggest a deliberate effort to downplay the lab leak theory, potentially shielding Biden from political and legal fallout. A recent House subcommittee report criticized the federal government for suppressing dissenting opinions, emphasizing the need for a full investigation into COVID-19s origins and potential government complicity in a cover-up. The recent revelations surrounding the origins of COVID-19 have sparked a firestorm of controversy, with mounting evidence suggesting that the Biden administration may have been 'shielded' from damning information about the viruss origins. According to reports, U.S. intelligence officials allegedly silenced Pentagon researchers who uncovered compelling evidence that COVID-19 likely leaked from a Chinese lab, leaving room for plausible deniability for Biden and his administration. This raises serious questions about whether the CIA, using the media, has orchestrated a cover-up to protect President Joe Biden from political falloutand potentially even prosecution. The New York Post and Wall Street Journal have detailed how three Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) scientists John Hardham, Robert Cutlip and Jean-Paul Chretien conducted a thorough investigation into the origins of the virus. Their findings pointed to a lab leak in Wuhan, China, supported by dozens of data points. Among their discoveries was evidence that the virus contained a biological feature allowing for easier human transmission, a characteristic eerily similar to methods described in a Chinese study years prior. Additionally, a Chinese military researcher applied for a COVID-19 vaccine patent mere weeks after the virus was first sequenced, suggesting prior knowledge of its genetic makeup. Despite the gravity of these findings, the scientists work was allegedly suppressed by intelligence officials. Their conclusions were excluded from a 2021 report ordered by President Biden, which instead concluded that the virus was probably not genetically engineered. Even more troubling, the researchers were reportedly forbidden from sharing their findings with Congress, the FBI, or the public. This deliberate silencing of critical information raises the specter of a coordinated effort to shield the Biden administration from accountability. That's convenient The timing of this suppression is particularly suspicious. In May 2021, Biden commissioned a comprehensive intelligence report on the origins of COVID-19. Yet, when the report was presented to him in August 2021, it omitted the DIA scientists findings and downplayed the lab leak theory. Notably, the FBI the only US intelligence agency to conclude with moderate confidence that the virus likely originated in a lab was excluded from the White House briefing. This exclusion suggests a deliberate effort to present a sanitized narrative to the president, one that absolved China and, by extension, the Biden administration of responsibility. The role of the CIA in this alleged cover-up cannot be ignored. While the FBI and DIA scientists were sidelined, the CIA took a neutral stance on the viruss origins, effectively allowing the lab leak theory to be dismissed. This raises questions about whether the agency, long accused of political manipulation, played a role in shaping the narrative to protect Biden. The medias complicity in this effort is equally troubling. Outlets that once dismissed the lab leak theory as a conspiracy are now cautiously acknowledging its plausibility, but only after years of damage control for the Biden administration. The implications of this alleged cover-up are staggering. If COVID-19 did indeed originate from a lab leak, as most now believe and common sense dictates it would implicate not only China but also US-funded research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. This would place the Biden administration in the crosshairs of public scrutiny, as questions about its handling of the pandemic and its ties to Chinese research would inevitably arise. By suppressing evidence of a lab leak, intelligence officials may have sought to shield Biden from political and legal consequences, including potential prosecution for negligence or complicity in a global health crisis. The recent 520-page report by the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic further underscores the need for transparency. While the report did not find direct evidence of genetic manipulation, it confirmed that the lab leak theory is not a conspiracy and criticized the federal government for suppressing dissenting opinions. Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), chairman of the subcommittee, questioned the governments motivation for influencing the COVID origins narrative, a sentiment echoed by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY), who has vowed to continue investigating the matter. Will we ever know the whole story? As the truth about COVID-19s origins slowly emerges, it is clear that the American people deserve answers. The suppression of critical evidence, the exclusion of dissenting voices, and the medias role in shaping a favorable narrative for the Biden administration all point to a disturbing pattern of deception. If the CIA and other intelligence agencies were complicit in this cover-up, it would represent a grave betrayal of public trust and a blatant attempt to shield Joe Biden from accountability. The stakes could not be higher. Over 1.2 million Americans have died from COVID-19, and the origins of the virus remain a stubborn mystery. If the Biden administration and its allies in the intelligence community conspired to suppress the truth, they must be held accountable. The American people deserve nothing less than a full and transparent investigation into this scandal one that exposes the truth, no matter where it leads. Sources include: RT.com NYPost.com WashingtonExaminer.com Bidens gas water heater ban is a last-minute $450 fine passed on to American consumers Before Joe Biden is escorted out the White House and vanned to a real retirement facility on January 20th, he and his handlers are hellbent on destroying everything they touch in the final weeks. The Biden regime finalized regulations banning most natural gas-powered instantaneous water heaters, driving up costs for consumers by an estimated $450 per unit. Roughly 40% of tankless water heaters will be removed from the market by 2029, disproportionately impacting low-income and senior households. The Department of Energy quietly published the rules the day after Christmas, avoiding public scrutiny and press releases. The regulations favor expensive, less efficient condensing models, effectively banning affordable non-condensing options. Rinnai America, a major manufacturer, faces devastating losses, including a $70 million Georgia facility that may become obsolete. The rules violate the Energy Policy and Conservation Act and prioritize climate ideology over consumer choice and economic practicality. Biden regime burdens Americans with $450 climate fine on hot water heaters The Biden administrations relentless war on American consumers and domestic energy production has reached a new low with its latest regulatory overreach: a ban on natural gas-powered instantaneous water heaters. This move, finalized in the dying days of Bidens presidency, is a blatant attempt to cement his climate agenda before President-elect Donald Trump can reverse it. But at what cost? The answer is clear: higher prices, fewer choices, and a crushing blow to American manufacturing. The Department of Energy (DOE) quietly published the rules the day after Christmas, a calculated move to avoid public scrutiny. The regulations, which take full effect by 2029, will eliminate roughly 40% of the tank-less water heaters currently available in the U.S. market. This forces consumers to choose between more expensive condensing models or less efficient storage tank water heaters. Industry experts estimate the average consumer will pay $450 more for a new water heatera devastating hit to low-income families and seniors who rely on affordable, efficient options. This is not just about water heaters. Its about an administration hell-bent on forcing its green energy agenda down the throats of Americans, regardless of the economic consequences. The DOEs actions are part of a broader pattern of targeting household appliances, from gas stoves to refrigerators, in the name of reducing carbon emissions. But as usual, the Biden administrations policies hurt the very people they claim to help. Biden regime takes another shot at American manufacturing The impact on American manufacturing is equally alarming. Rinnai America, the nations only major manufacturer of tankless water heaters, recently invested $70 million in a state-of-the-art facility in Georgia. That facility, which employs hundreds of locals, now faces obsolescence. Frank Windsor, Rinnais president, lamented the administrations shortsightedness, noting that the new rules render their investments irrelevant. This is a direct attack on American jobs and innovation, all in service of an ideological crusade. Critics argue the regulations are not only economically disastrous but also legally dubious. The American Gas Association (AGA) has called the rules a violation of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, which prohibits the federal government from banning products with distinct performance characteristics. Matthew Agen, AGAs chief counsel, called the decision deeply concerning and irresponsible, noting that the DOEs own analysis shows minimal energy savingsjust $112 over 20 yearswhile imposing significant costs on consumers. The Biden regime's actions are a slap in the face to American families and businesses. By prioritizing climate ideology over practicality, they have created a regulatory nightmare that will burden consumers, stifle innovation, and undermine economic growth. As President-elect Trump prepares to take office, one thing is clear: the Biden administrations legacy will be one of reckless overreach and disregard for the American people. Sources include: FreeBeacon.com AGA.org FederalRegister.com TRUTH ABOUT BIRD FLU: All confirmed U.S. Bird Flu cases have been MILD with ZERO hospitalizations or deaths, and it cant efficiently spread human-to-human Short-lived Symptoms : Bird Flu symptoms, including conjunctivitis in 93% of cases and respiratory symptoms in 36%, typically last only 4 days. Human-to-human spread is rare, with only 3% of household contacts testing positive. : Bird Flu symptoms, including conjunctivitis in 93% of cases and respiratory symptoms in 36%, typically last only 4 days. Human-to-human spread is rare, with only 3% of household contacts testing positive. Reinstatement of Controversial Experiments : After a 4-year hiatus, the U.S. government has approved the restart of "gain of function" (GOF) experiments on bird flu, despite safety concerns. These experiments alter the virulence and transmissibility of bird flu strains. : After a 4-year hiatus, the U.S. government has approved the restart of "gain of function" (GOF) experiments on bird flu, despite safety concerns. These experiments alter the virulence and transmissibility of bird flu strains. Safety and Transparency Concerns : Critics argue for greater transparency in the decision-making process for GOF experiments. While some researchers find safety conditions reassuring, others maintain that the lack of openness is "disturbing" and "indefensible." : Critics argue for greater transparency in the decision-making process for GOF experiments. While some researchers find safety conditions reassuring, others maintain that the lack of openness is "disturbing" and "indefensible." Potential Risks and Benefits : The scientific community remains divided on the ethical acceptability of GOF research, with ongoing discussions about the balance between advancing scientific knowledge and mitigating potential risks. : The scientific community remains divided on the ethical acceptability of GOF research, with ongoing discussions about the balance between advancing scientific knowledge and mitigating potential risks. Transmission and Symptoms: Bird Flu primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, similar to the common cold. Symptoms include conjunctivitis, fever, cough, and muscle aches, and the virus is not bloodborne or transmitted through pasteurized milk or cooked meat. As documented in October of 2024, symptoms of Bird Flu are short-lived, averaging only 4 days, including conjunctivitis in most cases (93 percent), respiratory symptoms (36 percent), other household contacts only 3 percent test positive, meaning human-to-human spread is rare. If you dont work with poultry directly, you basically have nothing to worry about anyway. However, if Fauci has funded gain-of-function research on Bird Flu, his insidious scientists may have designed some strains of Bird Flu that CAN easily be communicated to humans, and jump from human-to-human, just like they did with Covid-19. This would not surprise the natural health community of the world, as we all know the truth about the plandemic now, and the origins of it all from the Wuhan Lab and the NIH funding they received thanks to Fauci. U.S. reinstates controversial Bird Flu experiments despite ongoing safety concerns After a 4-year hiatus, the U.S. government has given the green light to restart controversial "gain of function" (GOF) experiments on bird flu, reigniting a heated debate over the risks and benefits of such research. These experiments, which alter the virulence and transmissibility of pathogens, were initially paused in 2014 due to fears they could lead to the creation of novel influenza strains capable of causing pandemics. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has now lifted the funding pause and approved two key projects, led by researchers Yoshihiro Kawaoka and Ron Fouchier. The projects, which were at the center of the original controversy in 2014, involve identifying mutations in bird flu strains that could enhance their ability to spread between mammals and increase their virulence. Despite passing a new U.S. review process, concerns over safety and transparency have been reignited. Critics argue that the details of the HHS panel's decision-making process should be made public, citing the need for greater transparency in evaluating the risks and benefits of such research. Michael Imperiale, a researcher who has taken a balanced stance in the debate, finds the safety conditions imposed on Kawaoka's project reassuring. However, others like Thomas Inglesby of the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and Richard Ebright of Rutgers University maintain that the lack of openness is "disturbing" and "indefensible." As the experiments are poised to resume, the scientific community remains divided, with ongoing discussions about the ethical acceptability of GOF research and the potential consequences of any accidents. The next steps will be closely monitored by the NIH and the HHS, with reporting requirements in place to ensure transparency and safety. With federal biocontainment labs facing a series of accidents in recent years, the stakes are high as researchers and policymakers grapple with the balance between advancing scientific knowledge and mitigating potential risks. The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, similar to the common cold. While there have been no instances of human-to-human transmission, farmers in close contact with infected dairy cows have been the primary carriers. Symptoms of bird flu include conjunctivitis, or pink eye, which has been a consistent indicator in all confirmed cases. Other symptoms mirror those of the common flu, such as fever, cough, and muscle aches. The virus is not bloodborne and is not transmitted through properly pasteurized milk or cooked meat. Bookmark plague.info to your favorite independent websites for updates on new gain-of-function Bird Flu virus the globalists have already warned us will be released on January 21st, as soon as Trump starts cleaning out the parasites from the DC swamp. #BirdFluPsyop Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news GatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com UCSF.edu/news Science.org PDE report: DOJ spends over $100 million on controversial DEI education programs in four years The Department of Justice (DOJ) spent over $100 million on education programs related to restorative justice, social-emotional learning and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) from 2021 to 2024, with grants awarded to over 900 school districts in 36 states. The spending included 45 million on restorative practices and social-emotional learning, 32 million on DEI initiatives, 20 million on consultant certifications and 10 million on hiring new administrators like restorative justice facilitators. The report highlighted several controversial grants, such as nearly two million to the Minnesota Department of Education to promote "anti?racism and anti?oppression" practices and nearly one million to New Jersey's Ocean County to equate "teasing" with "oppression and all forms of violence." Parents Defending Education (PDE) emphasized that the DOJ's STOP School Violence Program aimed to replace disciplinary actions with social-emotional learning, potentially disrupting class time for more students. PDE also noted that the reported numbers are likely underestimates due to data limitations. Additionally, the department has spent at least $1 billion on grants promoting DEI since 2021 across 42 states and Washington, D.C., as highlighted in a separate PDE report. Critics argue this spending is wasteful and prioritizes far-left ideologies over proven educational methods. A Parents Defending Education (PDE) report has revealed that the Department of Justice (DOJ) spent more than $100 million on education programs related to restorative justice, social-emotional learning and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) over the past four years. According to the report, which analyzed grant distributions between 2021 and 2024, the DOJ awarded and distributed $100,113,942 in grants to over 900 school districts across 36 states. The spending includes $45,207,178 on "project proposals that broadly mention restorative practices or social-emotional learning," $32,084,529 on proposals that discuss DEI or explicitly explain how the project is intended to improve outcomes for a specific demographic group, $19,881,347 on "certification for consultants that often promote divisive concepts such as critical race theory, critical gender theory and queer theory" and $10,296,100 on proposals for hiring new administrators like a "restorative justice facilitator." It also highlights several controversial grants, including nearly two million awarded to the Minnesota Department of Education to "create safe learning environments where practices of anti-racism and anti-oppression are embedded" and nearly one million given to New Jersey's Ocean County to reduce violence while equating "teasing" to "oppression and all forms of violence." The PDE report also shed light on the DOJ's STOP School Violence Program, which aims to "improve school climate" by switching from disciplinary actions to "social-emotional learning." (Related: DEI is collapsing across corporate America.) "More often than not, when schools mention 'improving school climate' they mean replacing exclusionary discipline with restorative practices and social-emotional learning," PDE wrote. "Exclusionary discipline removes the disruption from the classroom, allowing the rest of the class to continue learning. Restorative practices, on the other hand, often disrupt class time for more students, as both the offender(s) and victim(s) in an incident are brought together to discuss what happened and 'repair harm.'" The PDE said the reported numbers were based on available data, with some counties with multiple grants being counted only once. "The real number is likely much higher," the group said. PDE: Education Department has spent $1B on grants promoting DEI in America's schools since 2021 Aside from the DOJ, the PDE also published another report in December claiming that the Education Department has spent at least $1 billion on grants promoting DEI in America's schools since 2021. The report, which analyzed nearly four years of publicly available data from the department, revealed that the administration of outgoing President Joe Biden awarded 229 grants across 42 states and Washington, D.C., with a clear DEI motive, totaling $1,002,522,304.81. The grants were divided into three categories: $489,883,797 for race-based hiring; $343,337,286 for general DEI programming; and $169,301,221 for DEI-based mental health training and programming. It also highlights several examples of grants, including a $3,974,496 grant to the School District of Philadelphia for a restorative justice program led by a former Communist Party USA member, a $4 million grant for a "culturally responsive" computer science summer camp and a $38,000 grant for a one-day professional development training by an equity consultant. Biden has signed several executive orders mandating DEI actions in federal agencies and the Department of Education under Secretary Miguel Cardona has made fostering DEI a key priority. The term "equity" appears over 70 times in the department's 2022-2026 strategic plan, and DEI is listed as one of the six "focus areas." Michele Exner, a senior advisor at PDE, characterized the spending as wasteful, noting that American students' academic performance is declining. Meanwhile, Rhyen Staley, a researcher at PDE, stated that the report demonstrates how the Biden administration has been "incentivizing" far-left ideologies in U.S. schools rather than "rigorous, proven methods of instruction," at the expense of students' education. "The only people or groups to benefit from the enormous amount of grant funding are the universities, administrators and DEI consultants, at the expense of children's education," Staley said. "This needs to change by placing children's learning at the forefront of education, instead of prioritizing race-based policies and DEI." More related news about DEI policies can be found at Wokies.news. Watch the video below where Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) says Biden is going to undercut Trump as much as he can. This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Biden admin races to fill 1,200 DEI positions with $160M price tag before Trump inauguration. Biden's Education Department has allocated more than $1 billion in grants to public schools to promote DEI PROGRAMS. DEI prosecutor who once said she'd never 'degrade herself for a dolla' was just convicted for stealing $15 million in COVID funds. Sources include: FoxNews.com 1 FoxNews.com 2 Brighteon.com The INSIDIOUS Anthony Fauci mass-murdered HUNDREDS of orphans to help Big Pharma test and market new drugs, according to RFK Jr. and a BBC film According to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Anthony Fauci subjected orphaned and foster children to illegal and unethical experiments, resulting in numerous deaths and burial in unmarked mass graves. Fauci collaborated with pharmaceutical companies to conduct these experiments on foster children from six states, often using caregivers with little to no medical training. The experiments, detailed in a BBC documentary called "Guinea Pig Kids," involved administering toxic drugs that caused severe illness and death, with some children subjected to force-feeding and invasive procedures. Kennedy's book, "The Real Anthony Fauci," reveals Fauci's financial ties to pharmaceutical companies and his alleged disregard for the welfare of the vulnerable children used in these experiments. The author argues that these experiments were motivated by the pursuit of profit and power and calls for a thorough investigation into Fauci's actions and the ethics of medical experimentation. The insidious Anthony Fauci gathered foster children from six states and turned them over to the pharmaceutical industry for AIDS and chemotherapy experimentation. To ensure he could pull this off, Fauci made sure the people running those foster homes had little-to-no medical training whatsoever, so they couldnt understand what was happening to the children. Most of those caregivers were immigrants from the Dominican Republic, RFK Jr. says. These abused children Fauci ran experiments on are documented in a BBC film called Guinea Pig Kids, much of which was documented by a courageous journalist and author named Celia Farber. The kids were given drugs that made them horribly sick. Farber visited the Gates of Heaven cemetery in New York where Fauci disposed of the children who died from these illegal experiments, where she found hundreds of tiny coffins stacked haphazardly in mass graves, covered only by an astroturf carpet. Fauci had partnered with pharma companies to broaden their markets for HIV and chemotherapy drugs they were patenting. It was all about the money, as usual, and Fauci had complete disdain, with no remorse, for these orphaned kids who had no parents or guardians to look out for their well-being and safety. Thats why Fauci used them, abused them, tortured them, and let them die all to test out some experimental drugs so some Big Pharma thugs could get richer. Its all described in great detail in RFK Jr.s top-selling book The Real Anthony Fauci. Shocking Revelations Unveil Fauci's Dark Past: The Unspoken Truth Behind HIV Experiments on Foster Children In his damning new book, "The Real Anthony Fauci," Robert F. Kennedy Jr. uncovers a harrowing chapter in the career of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the man once hailed as a hero of the AIDS crisis. The revelations paint a picture of a ruthless pursuit of power and profit, with devastating consequences for some of the most vulnerable members of society. Kennedy's expose, based on the work of investigative journalist Liam Scheff, details Fauci's involvement in a series of experimental drug trials on HIV-positive foster children at the Incarnation Childrens Center (ICC) in New York City, and sister facilities across seven states between 1988 and 2002. These trials, funded by Fauci's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and pharmaceutical industry partners, subjected hundreds of children to unsupervised, and often fatal, drug experiments. The experiments, which involved administering toxic drugs known to cause severe genetic mutations, organ failure, and even death, were conducted without proper consent. Children who refused the experimental drugs were subjected to brutal force-feeding methods, including invasive procedures to implant feeding tubes directly into their stomachs. These procedures, described as nothing short of torture, were performed at Columbia Presbyterian hospital. The horror of these experiments was brought to light by a BBC documentary in 2004, "Guinea Pig Kids," which exposed the grim reality of Fauci's "clinical trials." The documentary's investigators uncovered a mass grave in the Gate of Heaven cemetery in Hawthorne, New York, containing dozens of plain wooden coffins, believed to be the remains of children who perished during the experiments. The New York City Administration of Child Services conducted a four-year investigation into Fauci's experiments, finding that eighty of the 532 children involved in his "clinical trials" died, with twenty-five of those deaths occurring during a medication trial alone. Kennedy's book also delves into Fauci's financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry, revealing a web of lucrative partnerships and shared profits. This, along with Fauci's own ambitions, led to the exploitation of vulnerable children in the name of "science." The author's research extends beyond the HIV experiments, revealing Fauci's involvement in other controversial studies, including experiments on Beagle puppies and the grafting of aborted fetal tissue onto living animals. As Fauci and his pharmaceutical partners, including billionaire Bill Gates, continue to push for global vaccine mandates, Kennedy's book serves as a stark reminder of the dark history that underpins their actions. The revelations in "The Real Anthony Fauci" demand a thorough investigation and raise serious questions about the ethics of medical experimentation and the true motivations behind the global health agenda. This explosive book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex and often troubling history of medical experimentation and the individuals who wield significant power in the field of public health. FAUCI MURDERED ORPHANS: Fauci experimented on, tortured and murdered innocent orphaned children who had no parents or guardians to protect them. He had their bodies buried in a mass unmarked grave so no one would find out. Kennedy and Kash will get justice.pic.twitter.com/LfKKjbx0uL Truth Justice (@SpartaJustice) December 23, 2024 Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on Freakshow Fauci going to jail for mass murder soon. Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news NaturalNews.com Independent.org How international NGOs racialise and silence Palestinian civil society The humanitarian sector has always had its issues in Palestine , but the way it has been operating since the genocide in Gaza began is more troubling than ever. (Article by Falastine Saleh republished from MiddleEastEye.net) After signing the Oslo Accords in 1993, and under the guise of "state-building", international donors and major NGOs arrived with pre-packaged liberal agendas, throwing around terms like empowerment, development, and statehood. On the surface, they came to help. In reality, their presence served other purposes, ones far removed from supporting Palestinian liberation. These organisations, whether intentionally or not, have actively depoliticised the Palestinian struggle, fragmented grassroots movements and enforced a dependency on international aid that prioritises foreign policy interests over the needs of the people. By framing and packaging the issue as one of development or humanitarian aid, NGOs shifted the focus from addressing the structural violence of Israeli occupation to solving technical problems. The Palestinian struggle for freedom was reduced to issues like capacity building, completely stripped of its political essence. This tendency has never been more obvious than during the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where the humanitarian organisations scramble to respond to the immediate crisis, but their avoidance of addressing its root causes is deafening. Their focus is solely on distributing aid while avoiding naming the man-made nature of the catastrophe or holding Israel accountable for its war crimes. Palestinian 'empowerment' The arrival of these organisations fractured Palestinian civil society in ways that ultimately served their own agendas. Before their interference, the Palestinian liberation movement was led by grassroots groups - workers, farmers, students, feminists, youth organisations and political parties - who were united in their fight against Israeli colonialism. NGOs came in and compartmentalised this collective resistance, introducing donor-friendly frameworks that imposed their own definitions of Palestinian empowerment. What they failed to recognise - whether intentionally or not - was that these groups werent advocating for better wages, land rights or gender equality; they were fighting for their survival and freedom from the Israeli occupation in a naturally intersectional manner. Even worse, over the years, Palestinian civil society became reliant on the funding these NGOs attracted. But that funding came with strings attached. International donors, driven by foreign policy interests, set the terms, creating funding criteria that discouraged political organising and penalised those who dared to confront the realities of Israeli colonialism. Once bold and uncompromising, Palestinian NGOs were pushed to self-censor in order to preserve their funding. This dependency didnt just neutralise Palestinian activism - it allowed the occupation to thrive. By stepping in to provide services and aid that should legally be the responsibility of the occupying power, the very existence of humanitarian organisations in Palestine reinforces the system of oppression they claim to fight. They may not have built the prison walls, but they definitely help maintain them. As we confront the horrific reality of genocide today, the failures of the humanitarian sector have become painfully clear to me - Ive lived them. At the onset of the genocide in Gaza, I worked in the advocacy and communications department of a prominent international NGO. What I witnessed was more than complicity; it was an active erasure of Palestinian voices. The lies, gaslighting and manipulation I experienced went far beyond anything I could have imagined. Appeasing Zionists One incident stands out vividly. The organisation chose to partner with an Israeli group, a decision quietly orchestrated by the regional office and withheld from local staff until the last possible moment. When we found out, we were outraged. We explained that such a partnership not only violated the organisations mandate but carried deeply problematic political implications, especially at this critical moment. Our concerns were dismissed outright by the predominantly white regional management. They accused us of bias and even questioned our commitment to human rights and the organisations mission. Despite our objections, they went ahead, prioritising the approval of donors and appeasing leaders within the organisation known for their staunch Zionist views. But the manipulation didnt stop there. Everything we wrote - from tweets to reports - had to go through a gruelling sign-off process that felt more like censorship. They even hired a white European staff member whose sole job was to edit and approve anything that came out of our department. This person blocked statements that called out Israel for its war crimes, insisted on inserting false equivalences into our reports, and decided which truths were palatable enough for publication. It didnt matter that we were Palestinians living under occupation, writing from experience. Our voices were silenced in favour of narratives that prioritised the organisations political interests and donor relations. The racism within the humanitarian sector extends far beyond policies - it permeates hiring practices and workplace culture. In a recent interview with a prominent international NGO in Palestine, I was met with a question that was as insulting as it was telling: How are you going to separate being Palestinian from the work? With that one question, my years of experience, skills and professionalism were brushed aside, reduced instead to my Palestinian identity - a problem in their eyes. Clearly, being Palestinian made me unprofessional, biased and unfit in their framework. Unbearable hypocrisy The questions only got worse. I was asked how I would manage my frustration as a Palestinian working within their so-called red lines. They referenced a panel I had participated in where I had criticised humanitarian organisations for their complicity in Gazas genocide and asked me to justify my remarks. My response - that these criticisms were based on facts and should not be swept under the rug - made them visibly uncomfortable. I left the interview feeling angry, attacked and deeply discriminated against. This isn't just about one bad interview or one terrible organisation. Its about a sector that systematically silences Palestinian voices. As Palestinians, were seen as too emotional, too biased, too unprofessional to work in an industry that claims to champion justice and human rights. Its a whole sector where were expected to strip ourselves of our identity, to become hollow mouthpieces for statements that dilute the truth, serve the status quo, and enable their failure to act. The hypocrisy is unbearable. While our people are being massacred in Gaza, were subjected to anti-Palestinian racism by the very organisations that claim to stand for human rights. These institutions demand neutrality from us, yet they themselves are anything but neutral. Im done with this sector for the most part. I count myself lucky to have developed other skills, ones I can use to make a living without compromising my values. I urge every Palestinian NGO worker to do the same. Build something outside this oppressive system because the system will never change. It wasnt designed to. Palestinians deserve better. We will fight for our freedom, we will fight to serve justice, and we will do it on our terms, not theirs. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Eye. Read more at: MiddleEastEye.net Israel and Hamas resume ceasefire talks amid ongoing violence in Gaza Israeli and Hamas officials have resumed ceasefire negotiations in Qatar to end the 15-month-old conflict, focusing on a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The renewed talks come amid ongoing violence, with Israel approving a delegation despite its previous stance against a permanent ceasefire, likely due to pressure from the international community and families of captured soldiers. The negotiations are complicated by conflicting narratives, with Israel accusing Hamas of creating new obstacles and Hamas accusing Israel of introducing "new conditions." The conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 45,000 Palestinians killed, 11,000 missing, and 100,000 displaced, exacerbated by recent airstrikes on residential areas. The talks aim to secure the release of seven Israeli soldiers held by Hamas, with the international community increasingly pressing both sides to reach a lasting solution to the ongoing crisis. In a bid to end the 15-month-old conflict, Israeli and Hamas officials have resumed ceasefire negotiations in Qatar. The talks, which have been ongoing intermittently for a year, are now focused on a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, according to Basem Naim, a senior Hamas official. The renewed talks come at a critical time as violence in Gaza shows no signs of abating. On Thursday, Jan. 2, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved a delegation to resume discussions, despite his public stance that a permanent end to the war is not on the table. This decision is seen as a response to mounting pressure from the international community and the families of the seven Israeli soldiers held by Hamas. Throughout 2024, the U.S. and Israel have consistently maintained that Hamas is the primary obstacle to a ceasefire. However, despite this rhetoric, progress in the negotiations has been slow and fraught with obstacles. In December, a previous round of talks seemed promising, but Hamas accused Israel of introducing "new conditions" that stalled the agreement. Israel claimed that Hamas was creating new hurdles. The situation took a dramatic turn in late 2023 when Israeli forces killed Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar in a firefight. However, this change in leadership has not led to a ceasefire, highlighting the complexity and entrenched nature of the conflict. Humanitarian crisis and escalating violence The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions. According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics, more than 45,000 Palestinians have been killed, and 11,000 are missing and believed to be under the rubble. At least 100,000 people have been forced to flee Gaza as the Israeli campaign continues to destroy civilian infrastructure. In the latest round of violence, at least 70 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes over the past day. The strikes, which targeted residential areas, have sparked outrage among human rights organizations and the international community. The renewed talks are also aimed at securing the release of seven Israeli soldiers held by Hamas. A video released by Hamas showed 19-year-old Liri Albag, one of the captives, calling for an agreement to be reached. Her parents have appealed to Netanyahu to "make decisions as if your own children were there." As the conflict drags on, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. With each passing day, the death toll rises and the infrastructure of the Gaza Strip is further decimated. The international community, including the U.S. and European Union, is increasingly pressing both sides to reach a lasting solution. In a call to Albag's parents, Israeli President Isaac Herzog reaffirmed the government's commitment to securing the release of all hostages. He stated that the delegation would remain at the negotiating table until all hostages were returned home. The urgency for a ceasefire is undeniable. As the conflict enters its 15th month, the need for a sustainable peace agreement that addresses the root causes of the violence is more critical than ever. The renewed talks offer a glimmer of hope, but the path to a lasting ceasefire remains fraught with challenges. The renewed talks mark a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As the humanitarian crisis deepens and the death toll rises, the international community and the people of Gaza are holding out hope that these negotiations will finally lead to sustainable peace. (Related: Trump's incoming Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff pushing for Gaza ceasefire deal ahead of January inauguration.) However, the complexity of the situation and the historical context of the conflict suggest that the path to a lasting ceasefire will be challenging. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether these talks can break the cycle of violence and pave the way for a more peaceful future in the region. Head over to IsraelCollapse.com for more updates on the ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Watch the video below that reports about 90 people killed on Jan. 2 due to Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Israel seizes Syrian buffer zone, bans villagers from their fields, as U.N. condemns occupation. After Lebanon ceasefire, Netanyahu is running out of cards to play. Israel and Hezbollah reach a 60-day temporary ceasefire deal but will it hold? Israels settler movement makes real estate" plans while Gaza burns to the ground. Sources include: MiddleEastEye.net BBC.com Brighteon.com Israel threatens Hamas: Release hostages or face unprecedented escalation in Gaza Israel has issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the release of approximately 100 hostages or facing an unprecedented military offensive. Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned of "blows with force not seen in Gaza for a long time," indicating the potential for severe escalation. The Gaza Strip, already devastated by previous conflicts, now faces the prospect of even greater destruction, with over 45,000 Palestinians killed in the ongoing war. International efforts to mediate a ceasefire and negotiate the release of hostages have failed, leaving the conflict unresolved and the humanitarian situation in Gaza dire. The Gaza Strip, a beleaguered stretch of land already reduced to rubble, now stands on the precipice of even greater devastation. Israel has issued a chilling ultimatum to Hamas: release the remaining hostages or brace for an offensive of unparalleled ferocity. Defense Minister Israel Katz's words were not minced, they were a thunderclap, a warning reverberating across the region. "Blows with a force not seen in Gaza for a long time," he declared, as the world watched, half in horror, half in resignation. This is not just another chapter in the endless cycle of violence between Israel and Hamas. This is a moment of reckoning, a grim crossroads where the stakes are nothing short of apocalyptic. Over 45,000 Palestinians have already perished in this war, a staggering number that continues to climb with each passing day. Yet, Israel insists it is prepared to escalate further, to unleash a storm that will leave Gaza even more shattered than it already is. The hostages have been held captive for over 450 days. Their plight is a raw nerve for Israel, a nation that has long prided itself on its ability to protect its citizens. The Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which saw militants storm into Israeli towns, killing over 1,200 people and seizing hostages, was a seismic event that shattered any illusion of security. For Israel, the hostages are not just prisoners; they are symbols of a national trauma that demands resolution, no matter the cost. But Gaza is already a wasteland. Entire neighborhoods have been flattened, hospitals reduced to shells and schools turned into shelters for the displaced. The Strip's 2.4 million residents have been uprooted, their lives upended by a war that shows no signs of abating. The Israeli military claims its strikes are precise, targeting Hamas militants and their infrastructure. Yet, the collateral damage is undeniable. Civilians men, women and children are paying the price, their lives extinguished in a conflict they did not choose. The recent strike on a house in Jabilia, where displaced families sought refuge, is a microcosm of the tragedy unfolding in Gaza. Fifteen people were killed, their bodies buried under rubble and their families left to mourn in a landscape of despair. "It was a massacre," said Jibri Abu Warda, a relative of the victims. "They were all civilians." Hamas remains defiant Hamas, for its part, remains defiant. The group continues to fire rockets into Israel, though in far fewer numbers than at the war's outset. These attacks, while largely ineffective militarily, serve as a psychological weapon, a reminder that Hamas is still capable of striking back. The group's leadership, though degraded, operates from a labyrinth of tunnels beneath Gaza, waging a guerrilla war that has proven difficult to eradicate. Negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages have repeatedly faltered. The United States, Egypt and Qatar have tried to mediate, but the talks have hit yet another deadlock. Hamas refuses to provide a list of living hostages, a move that has further inflamed tensions. (Related: Israel lashes out at Vatican after Pope Francis condemns killing of children.) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized the resumption of negotiations in Doha, but the message is clear: if diplomacy fails, the military option remains on the table. The Israeli Air Force has already conducted over 1,400 strikes in December alone, an average of 45 per day. The targets, according to the IDF, are Hamas militants and their infrastructure. But the human cost is impossible to ignore. The question now is not whether Israel can escalate but whether it should. "We don't want aid, we want the war to stop," pleaded Khalil Abu Warda, a grieving relative. His words echo the sentiments of countless Gazans who have endured unimaginable loss. Yet, for Israel, the calculus is different. The hostages are a national priority, and Hamas is an existential threat. The Israeli government believes that only through overwhelming force can it secure its objectives. The United Nations has condemned the violence, but its resolutions are toothless. Arab mediators hope for a breakthrough, but the intransigence of both sides stymies their efforts. The people of Gaza, caught in the crossfire, are left to endure a nightmare with no end in sight. IsraelCollapse.com has more similar stories. Watch this leaked video from 2001 where Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu talks about how Israel intentionally strikes Palestinians "painfully." This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Russia, Germany and Turkey condemn Israeli population expansion in Golan Heights. Russian official blasts Israeli plans for Golan Heights as Middle East tensions reach flashpoint. Israel continues to unleash hell on Earth, with 250 new airstrikes across Syria. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com SCMP.com Brighteon.com Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov appointed Oleksandr Kubrakov as his advisor on a voluntary basis. "His experience as Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Infrastructure and Head of Ukravtodor is important and will help improve the supply and logistics system in the Armed Forces of Ukraine," Umerov wrote on Facebook. The Minister added that he is confident that Kubrakov's state and practical experience will contribute to increasing the efficiency of defense processes and strengthening defense capability. On May 9, 2024, the Verkhovna Rada dismissed Kubrakov from the post of Deputy Prime Minister of Reconstruction - Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development. The initiators from the ruling Servant of the People faction cited the failure of the Ministry of Reconstruction, created at the end of 2022 by merging the Ministry of Regional Development with the Ministry of Infrastructure, as the reason, and declared the need to restore the latter. John Roy of Dawson Knives: Magnacut steel is redefining survival tools Magnacut steel, developed in 2021 by metallurgist Larry Thomas, combines the sharpness of high-carbon steel, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel and exceptional flexibility, making it a groundbreaking alloy for knife-making and aerospace applications. Magnacut excels in extreme conditions, resisting 30 days of saltwater exposure and maintaining durability in harsh environments, such as rural living or high humidity. The smelter producing Magnacut and other powdered metals has issued a 90-day shutdown notice due to economic pressures, potentially making this innovative steel a rare commodity and threatening its future availability. Dawson Knives, led by John Roy, uses a unique differential heat treatment combining ancient Japanese techniques with modern metallurgy, resulting in rust-resistant, durable blades with a razor-sharp edge. Magnacut knives represent a fusion of functionality and craftsmanship, but their future is uncertain due to regulatory and economic challenges facing the American steel industry; Roy emphasizes the importance of preserving this "greatest American steel invention." In the world of knife-making, a groundbreaking innovation is taking center stage Magnacut steel. Developed in the United States, this revolutionary alloy combines the sharpness of high-carbon steel with the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, all while maintaining flexibility and durability. John Roy of Dawson Knives, a second-generation knife maker based in Arizona, shared the transformative potential of Magnacut steel in a recent interview on the "Health Ranger Report" with Mike Adams. Roy showcased its unparalleled performance in extreme conditions. From resisting 30 days of saltwater exposure to surviving the rigors of rural living, Magnacut is a game-changer. But with the steel industry facing potential shutdowns, this innovation might soon become a rare commodity. Could Magnacut be the last great American steel? Magnacut, a powder metal steel developed in 2021, is the brainchild of metallurgist Larry Thomas. Its unique chemical composition allows it to achieve what was once considered impossible: the sharpness of high-carbon steel, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel, and the flexibility needed to prevent shattering. "This new steel is very sought after in the aerospace industry," Roy explained to the Health Ranger. "It's a whole different take on how to put molecules and alloys together to form a steel that is super stainless without a lot of chromium, giving you a razor-sharp edge that's easy to sharpen in the field." The steel's versatility has made it a favorite among knife makers, but its production is under threat. Roy revealed that the smelter responsible for producing Magnacut and other powdered metals has issued a 90-day shutdown notice due to economic pressures. "If we lose this American-made steel, we lose the heart of America," Roy warned. "Steel drives everything here." Dawson Knives combines ancient Japanese techniques with modern metallurgy What sets Dawson Knives apart is not just the use of Magnacut but the proprietary heat-treating process developed by Roy and his team. Combining ancient Japanese techniques with modern metallurgy, they have created a differential heat treatment that ensures a stronger edge while maintaining flexibility. "We failed 20 times before we got it right. But through prayer and perseverance, we found a method that ties Old and New World technologies together," Roy admitted. This process results in blades that are not only durable but also highly resistant to oxidation. "These knives are very rust-resistant. Nothing is rust-proof, but these can handle extreme conditions, whether its left in a ranch vehicle or exposed to high humidity." The collaboration between Roy and Adams, co-designer of the knives, has yielded a line of survival tools that push the boundaries of functionality. The Outfitter and Outfitter Pro machetes, crafted from Magnacut, are designed for everything from clearing brush to food prep. (Related: Health Ranger Report: High-grade corrosion-resistant knives co-designed with Dawson Knives a popular choice among backpackers and preppers.) "This is a multi-purpose utility and survival tool," Adams said. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime purchase." The knives feature a unique hollow grind, achieved using a 14- to 16-inch wheel, which provides a razor-sharp edge while maintaining enough "meat" behind it for durability. "Were not here to make axes," Roy explained. "Were here to make knives that can be axes and knives." Despite its success, the future of Magnacut is uncertain. With the steel industry grappling with regulatory challenges and economic pressures, the availability of this revolutionary alloy may soon be limited. "If you see these steels, buy them," Roy urged. "You may not get another chance." The potential loss of Magnacut underscores a broader issue: the decline of American manufacturing. Adams lamented that America has already lost too much steel infrastructure, adding that "the regulators are weaponized against American businesses." For Roy, the creation of these knives is more than just a business it's a legacy. While the knives and machetes crafted from Magnacut remain available, but their future is uncertain. As he put it: "This is one of the greatest American steel inventions. Let's hope it doesn't go by the wayside." Follow Gear.news for more news about knives and other survival tools. Watch the full interview between John Roy of Dawson Knives and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Dawson Knives, Health Ranger announce collaboration on new machete design and improvements to existing line of survival knives. SHTF essentials: Top 10 tools every survivalist should have in their kit. Must-have items for sheltering in the wilderness. Sources include: Brighteon.com DawsonKnives.com MASSIVE SABOTAGE: Biden Regime doing EVERYTHING POSSIBLE to cripple the incoming Trump Administration and endanger the whole nation The outgoing Biden administration is described as committing treason and causing chaos, in stark contrast to a typical peaceful transition of power. The text claims that the Biden regime is deliberately wrecking the nation's infrastructure, economy, and social institutions under the direction of global elites, aiming to prevent Donald Trump from effectively governing if he returns to power. There are allegations of human trafficking, environmental destruction, and the promotion of dangerous pathogens and vaccines, as well as plans for military action against Iran's nuclear facilities. Critics argue that the proposed military strike on Iran is a risky move that could lead to a prolonged conflict, marking a significant shift in the Democratic Party's stance on the Iran issue. The senile and demented hair-sniffer-in-Chief is committing acts of treason right and left daily now, during the most volatile lame-duck session in the history of the Presidency. This is the polar opposite of a peaceful transition that most Presidents promise on their way out the door. The Biden Regime, run by Obama, Soros, Big Pharma and the globalists is like one huge wrecking ball, pushing to the limits wars, famine, disease, crime, human trafficking, depopulation, stress, paranoia, and a total tyrannical police state like the nation has never seen before. The Biden puppeteers are pulling all the strings to wreck the nations infrastructure, supply chain, the military, the education system, healthcare, daycare, fertility, mental health, religion, and the constitution. They are funding the total destruction of liberty through illegal immigration of the worst criminals on the planet, including terrorists, rapists, murderers, and thieves. The Biden Freakshow wants total destruction of America so Trump cant fix anything The Biden freakshow is funding the creation of the deadliest viruses and pathogens the world has ever known, and then the deadliest vaccines to make sure the nails are put in the coffins of every human who thinks that healthcare means the government cares for peoples health. The Biden psychopaths are trying to outlaw all use of fossil fuels, including gasoline, diesel, and natural gas. The Communist Democrats want Russia and Iran to bomb America so Trump cant take office. Theyre working with the Chinese Communists to terrorize Americans with drone warfare, chemical weapons, and biological weapons of mass destruction, all right under our noses, out in the open, with no regard for the sanctity of life. The Biden regime ships illegal aliens into Conservative (red) states, cities, counties, and towns to replace the U.S. citizens who support the Republic, and Trump, and peace and prosperity. The Biden regime is funding human trafficking of hundreds of thousands of children, including U.S. children and foreign migrants, who are being used as sex slaves and sold on the black market like drugs and guns. The fake U.S. President Joe Biden and his national security team are plotting a military assault on Iran's nuclear facilities, just weeks before the end of his reign of terror. According to Axios, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan presented Biden with plans to bomb Iranian nuclear sites, citing a reduction in Iranian threats as a reason to act. This comes as a stark reversal from Biden's previous criticism of President Trump's hawkish stance on Iran. Former Biden official Richard Nephew, once a critic of Trump's aggressive tactics, now argues that "the case against military action is not so neat" and that the U.S. "may have little choice but to attack Iranand soon." This shift reflects a broader shift among Democrats who are now advocating for a more aggressive approach to Iran's nuclear program. Just a few years ago, Biden and his supporters accused Trump of recklessly considering a war with Iran. Now, Biden's team is making the case for military action, citing Israel's recent successes in weakening Iranian-backed forces in Lebanon and Syria. However, critics argue that the proposed military action would be a significant gamble. Nephew himself warns that to permanently quash Iran's nuclear ambitions, the U.S. may have to carry out a much larger assault or even engage in a prolonged conflict. As Biden's term comes to a close, the specter of another Middle Eastern war looms, raising serious questions about the wisdom and consequences of such a decision. 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, even during the lame-duck session. Sources for this article include: NaturalNews.com TheGatewayPundit.com Mexican president agrees to accept deportees under Trumps immigration crackdown Mexico agrees to accept deportees under Trumps immigration policies, including non-Mexican nationals, marking a major policy shift. The decision reflects Mexicos recognition of economic and political risks in defying U.S. immigration enforcement efforts. Previously critical of Trumps policies, President Claudia Sheinbaum now prioritizes cooperation over confrontation. Mexicos economy, deeply tied to the U.S., faces potential devastation from trade disruptions, influencing this reversal. The move signals progress in U.S.-Mexico collaboration on border security and immigration enforcement. In a surprising turn of events, the Mexican government has announced it will accept individuals deported under the Trump administrations immigration policieseven those who are not originally from Mexico, in some cases. This decision marks a significant shift from Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum's previous resistance to cooperating with U.S. efforts to secure the border and enforce immigration laws. The move signals a growing recognition that defying President Trumps hardline stance on immigration could have serious consequences for Mexico, both economically and politically. For years, Mexico has been a key transit point for migrants from Central America and beyond, with many attempting to cross into the United States illegally. Under previous administrations, Mexico often turned a blind eye to this flow of people, allowing them to pass through its territory with little interference. However, the Trump administrations relentless focus on border security and immigration enforcement has forced Mexico to rethink its approach. The Mexican presidents decision to accept deportees, including non-Mexican nationals, represents a stark reversal from her earlier stance. Just months ago, she was vocal in her criticism of U.S. immigration policies, accusing the Trump administration of being inhumane and overly aggressive. But as the reality of Trumps policies began to sink inincluding the threat of tariffs and other economic measuresMexico appears to have realized that cooperation, not confrontation, is the better path forward. This shift is not just about politics; its about survival. Mexicos economy is deeply intertwined with that of the United States, and any disruption to trade or investment could have devastating effects. By aligning itself with Trumps immigration agenda, Mexico is signaling its willingness to work with the U.S. to address the border crisis, even if it means taking on additional responsibilities. The bigger picture The Trump administrations immigration policies have been a cornerstone of its agenda since day one. From building the border wall to implementing stricter asylum rules, the administration has made it clear that it will not tolerate illegal immigration. Mexicos decision to accept deportees is a clear indication that these policies are working. By enforcing the rule of law and holding other countries accountable, the U.S. is finally seeing results. This development also highlights the importance of strong leadership in addressing complex issues like immigration. President Trumps unwavering commitment to securing the border has forced other nations to take responsibility for their role in the crisis. Mexicos reversal is a testament to the power of decisive action and the willingness to stand firm in the face of opposition. What does this mean for the future? While Mexicos decision is a step in the right direction, it remains to be seen how effectively it will be implemented. Accepting deportees, particularly those who are not Mexican nationals, is no small task. It will require significant resources and coordination between the two countries. However, the fact that Mexico is even willing to consider such a move is a sign of progress. For the United States, this development is a victory in the ongoing battle to secure the border and enforce immigration laws. It sends a clear message to other nations that the Trump administration is serious about holding them accountable for their role in the immigration crisis. It also underscores the importance of strong leadership and the willingness to take bold action in the face of adversity. In the end, Mexicos reversal is a reminder that actions speak louder than words. While the Mexican president may have once criticized Trumps policies, her decision to cooperate with the U.S. on deportations shows that she understands the stakes. By working together, the two countries can begin to address the root causes of the border crisis and create a safer, more secure future for both nations. Sources for this article include: YourNews.com APNews.com CNN.com Newsom orders crackdown on processed foods as obesity epidemic grows California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order targeting ultra-processed foods to address obesity and chronic health conditions. The order directs state agencies to investigate health risks and recommend actions, including warning labels and reducing harmful additives. Ultra-processed foods, linked to diseases like diabetes and cancer, are a major contributor to Americas obesity epidemic. The order also promotes access to fresh, healthy foods through programs like Medi-Cal and universal school meals. Federal action under Trump and RFK Jr. could complement state efforts, with Kennedy advocating for stricter food industry regulations. California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order targeting ultra-processed foods, a growing contributor to Americas obesity epidemic and chronic health conditions. The order, signed on January 3, directs state agencies to investigate the health risks associated with these foods and recommend actions to limit their harm. While Newsoms policies often leave much to be desired, this initiative is a step in the right direction for public health. The executive order tasks the California Department of Public Health with providing recommendations by April 2025 on how to address the dangers of ultra-processed foods, which are defined as industrial formulations containing chemically modified substances and additives. These foods, including packaged snacks, sugary beverages, and processed meats, are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The order also explores the possibility of warning labels on certain products and initiatives to reduce the purchase of sodas, candies, and other unhealthy items. A growing health crisis The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 73% of American adults are overweight or obese, and 38% of children aged 12 to 19 are prediabetic. These staggering statistics highlight the devastating impact of poor nutrition on public health. Ultra-processed foods, laden with synthetic dyes, preservatives, and artificial flavors, are a major culprit. They are designed to be addictive, cheap, and convenient, but their long-term consequences are dire. Newsoms order also calls for improving access to fresh, healthy foods through programs like Medi-Cal and Californias universal school meals initiative. By connecting farms to schools and banning harmful additives like synthetic dyes, the state is taking meaningful steps to protect its citizens, especially children, from the dangers of processed foods. A rare win for Newsom While Newsoms track record is far from perfect, this executive order is a rare exception. It builds on previous efforts, such as banning synthetic dyes in school foods and restricting sugary beverages in schools. These measures, though incremental, are critical in addressing the root causes of Americas obesity epidemic. However, the real test will be whether these recommendations translate into actionable policies. Warning labels and restrictions on harmful additives are a good start, but more comprehensive reforms are needed to truly transform the food industry. This is where the federal government must step in. Hope for federal action under Trump and RFK Jr. As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, there is hope that his administration will prioritize public health in a meaningful way. Trumps pick for Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has long been a vocal critic of processed foods. Kennedys Make American Healthy Again platform includes plans to eliminate harmful chemicals from food, water, and air, and to ensure that all Americans have access to clean, safe, and nutritious food. If confirmed, Kennedy could push the FDA to regulate the food industry more rigorously, banning harmful additives and promoting whole, unprocessed foods. Such reforms would complement Newsoms efforts and create a healthier future for all Americans. Newsoms executive order is a small but significant step in the fight against processed foods and the obesity epidemic. It acknowledges the role of government in protecting public health and sets a precedent for other states to follow. However, true progress will require bipartisan cooperation and a commitment to putting people over profits. As we look ahead, lets hope that leaders like RFK Jr. and Trump build on this momentum to make America healthier. After all, the food we eat shouldnt make us sickit should nourish us and help us thrive. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com TheHill.com Reuters.com Futurist John Petersen discusses the dawn of NEW HUMANS through galactic influence on human evolution The interview between futurist John Petersen and the Health Ranger Mike Adams explored a concept where the sun and the center of the galaxy emit electromagnetic radiation that activates latent capabilities in human DNA, leading to significant enhancements in cognition and metaphysical abilities. Petersen explained that the solar system's transition into a new cosmic region is fundamentally altering the sun, which in turn affects the Earth and all living beings, unlocking dormant aspects of human DNA originally designed for extraordinary capabilities. These changes enable dormant DNA to manifest capabilities such as telepathy, intuition and novel ways of accessing information, signaling the emergence of a "new human" generation with amplified cognitive and metaphysical capacities. The quantum shift discussed during the interview has global implications for human survival and civilization. It emphasizes the need to harness technology to augment human abilities and provide alternative information pathways to resist oppressive control. The interview concluded with the urgency of understanding and preparing for potential mass disclosures that could reshape human understanding and reality. Harnessing new technologies with human values is crucial for a new, more conscious and liberated world. In a recent "Health Ranger Report" interview with futurist John Petersen of the Arlington Institute, the Health Ranger Mike Adams explored a groundbreaking concept that the solar system's movement through new cosmic regions is activating latent abilities within human DNA. This phenomenon, driven by electromagnetic radiation from the sun and the center of the galaxy, is said to be laying the groundwork for radical enhancements in cognition and metaphysical capabilities, signaling a significant shift in the human condition. During their discussion, Petersen shed light on how the solar system's transition into a new area of space is fundamentally altering the sun, which in turn affects the earth and everything living on it. This transformation is more than just environmental; it's about unlocking the dormant powers embedded within the human DNA. According to Petersen, the universe is electric at its core, and these changes are enabling dormant aspects of human DNA, from original design, to manifest extraordinary capabilities like telepathy, intuition and the ability to access information in new ways. "Our DNA has from original design had extraordinary kind of capabilities, things to be able to manifest in telepathy and intuitive aspects, be able to access information. There's a whole spectrum of those kinds of capabilities, and that is being enabled by these waves," Petersen said. "There's waves, and they come in out of the center of the galaxy as well. And so, what it is doing is producing and turning on essentially a new human, the next generation of humans." Sun's waves unleash generation of NEW HUMANS The award-winning author emphasized the importance of understanding this emerging paradigm as a "new human" generation is born, one with amplified cognitive and metaphysical capacities. This "new human" is not just a matter of enhanced technology or artificial intelligence (AI), but an intrinsic evolutionary leap that has been made possible by changes in the cosmic environment. As Petersen explained, the sun and the center of the galaxy are emitting waves that turn on the next generation of humans. (Related: China develops brain-computer interface technology for cognitive enhancement and military applications.) Further discussion revolved around the implications of this quantum shift for human survival and the future of civilization. Petersen and Adams agreed that the rapid evolution of AI, the decentralization of knowledge through platforms like Brighteon.com and projects like the AI language model named Enoch, are essential steps in navigating this new world. By harnessing technology to augment human abilities and provide alternative pathways to information, humans can resist control from oppressive forces. The interview also touched on the global implications of a "new human" emergence. With the potential for consciousness evolution and the rise of alternative modes of information and decision-making, the traditional power structures and control mechanisms that dominate current society will face unprecedented challenges. The conversation offered a glimpse into a future where the "new human" may redefine what it means to be human and how societies function. As the interview wrapped up, Petersen and Adams highlighted the urgency of understanding and preparing for the "great reveal" the potential mass disclosure of secrets that could reshape human understanding and reality. They concluded that harnessing new technologies with human values at their core is crucial for the emergence of a new, more conscious and liberated world. Watch the full interview between futurist John Petersen of the Arlington Institute and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Man claiming to be an extraterrestrial gives first TV interview, claims humans are DNA experiments made by aliens known as Nu. Dr. Peter Breggin: Transhumanism, the cult of silicon immortality, threatens HUMAN IDENTITY. HUMANS BEWARE: Mad scientists discover that human DNA can be controlled with electrical signals from wearable devices. Human evolution occurred in ecosystems vastly different than those found today, suggest researchers. Human evolution REVERSING as DNA tests show rise of disease-promoting genes over the last 500 years. Sources include: Brighteon.com ArlingtonInstitute.org Trump announces key U.S. State Department picks President-elect Donald Trump announced his picks for key positions within the U.S. Department of State, including Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia and spokesperson for the department. Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson and active U.S. Navy Reserve intelligence officer, will serve as Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, working under Steven Witkoff. Roman Pipko, a native of Estonia, will serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia and is expected to advance American interests in the country. Tammy Bruce, a political analyst and former liberal activist turned conservative voice, will serve as spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, joining Marco Rubio as nominee for U.S. Secretary of State. Incoming Department of State officials will likely facilitate a hostage deal with Israel, joining a growing Trump administration team focused on the Middle East. However, the Biden administration is racing to finalize negotiations between Israel and Hamas before the Trump administration leaves office on Jan. 20. President-elect Donald Trump has revealed his picks for key positions within the U.S. Department of State (DOS), including Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia and spokesperson for the department. In separate posts on Truth Social on Jan. 3, Trump revealed his picks for the positions of Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia and spokesperson for the DOS. (Related: Trump officially endorses Mike Johnson for House Speaker.) Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokesperson and active U.S. Navy Reserve intelligence officer, will serve as Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, working under Steven Witkoff, a New York real estate tycoon selected for Middle East envoy. Trump acknowledged Ortagus' previous opposition to him, but is still hopeful she "has learned her lesson" and expects "great results." Shortly after, Trump posted that Roman Pipko, a native of Estonia, will serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Estonia. Pipko has represented U.S. interests in the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Russian American Enterprise Fund and has negotiated projects in Mongolia, Africa, Russia, Western Europe and his native Estonia, working with U.S. government agencies and foreign governments on the enforcement of U.S. sanctions. In line with this, Trump trusts that "he will advance American interests in his new role." Meanwhile, Tammy Bruce, a political analyst and former liberal activist turned conservative voice, will serve as spokesperson for the DOS, joining Marco Rubio, nominee for U.S. Secretary of State. Bruce received her bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Southern California and has been a news contributor for over two decades. "Tammy has brought truth to the American people for over two decades. I know she will bring that same strength of conviction and fearless spirit to her new position as State Department spokesperson," Trump wrote. Incoming State Department officials to facilitate a hostage deal with Israel These picks for key positions within the DOS will join a growing Trump administration team focused on the Middle East. This team includes Witkoff, Massad Boulos, a senior advisor for Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, Adam Boehler, the envoy for hostage situations and Mike Pompeo, the U.S. ambassador to Israel. The incoming Trump administration has not yet made an official statement after the announcement, but their initial task may be to facilitate a hostage deal. "Morgan is literally the best pick he could have made. She knows the region as well as anybody I've met. Everybody in the region knows her," Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) said in a telephone interview with Bloomberg. "Nobody has closer ties to Israel and understands the mischief of Iran. The president wouldn't have picked her if he didn't think she could do the job." The outgoing Biden administration is racing to finalize negotiations between Israel and Hamas before the Trump administration takes office on Jan. 20. However, despite Qatari mediators hosting delegations from both sides on Friday, Jan. 3, significant disagreements remain. Watch the video below where Trump lays out his second-term plans prior to the inauguration. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump plans to rebuild NATO while maintaining Ukraine support. Trump is taking on the media, exposing defamation and WINNING BIG. Trump steps in to halt Bidens border wall "fire sale." Trump's 2024 triumph could usher in new era of Republican dominance, if results are attained on several crucial fronts. Trump vows to reclaim Panama Canal, saying it belongs to America. Sources include: FoxNews.com Bloomberg.com TimesofIsrael.com Brighteon.com Trumps triumph, Bidens blunders, and a year of crisis: 2024s defining moments A look back at 2024, when Donald Trump secured a historic nonconsecutive presidential term, with the GOP gaining full control of Congress, enabling his "America First" agenda despite surviving two assassination attempts. President Biden withdrew from the race amid cognitive decline concerns, later pardoning his son Hunter, sparking accusations of abuse of power and eroding public trust. Natural disasters, infrastructure failures, and international tensions, including a foiled Iranian assassination plot against Trump, highlighted systemic vulnerabilities and global instability. 2024 was a year of seismic shifts, both politically and socially, as the nation grappled with leadership changes, natural disasters, and international tensions. From Donald Trumps historic election victory to the Biden familys controversies, the year was marked by moments that will shape the future of America and the world. Trumps historic comeback and GOP dominance In a stunning political comeback, Donald Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in the November presidential election, becoming only the second president in U.S. history to serve a nonconsecutive term. Trumps victory was a testament to his enduring appeal among voters and his ability to rally the Republican base. The GOP also secured control of both the House and Senate, giving the party a unified government for the first time in years. This victory sets the stage for Trump to advance his America First agenda, focusing on border security, domestic energy production, and revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. However, Trumps path to victory was not without peril. He survived two assassination attempts, including a harrowing incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman fired shots from a nearby rooftop. The Secret Services failure to adequately secure the rally site raised serious questions about the agencys preparedness and leadership. These lapses in security underscored the need for urgent reforms to protect Americas leaders. Bidens withdrawal and Hunters pardon President Joe Bidens withdrawal from the presidential race in July was a defining moment of the year. After a disastrous debate performance that highlighted concerns about his cognitive decline, Biden stepped aside, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Critics accused the Democratic Party of covering up Bidens struggles, raising questions about transparency and accountability. In a controversial move, Biden pardoned his son, Hunter, in December, sparing him from jail time for tax evasion and firearms charges. The pardon, which also covered potential federal offenses dating back to 2014, was widely criticized as an abuse of power. Critics argued that it underscored the Biden familys history of influence peddling and preferential treatment, further eroding public trust in the administration. Natural disasters and infrastructure failures Hurricane Helene, one of the deadliest storms to hit the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina, devastated the Southeast in September. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) faced widespread criticism for its slow and inadequate response, leaving thousands stranded and communities in disarray. House Speaker Mike Johnson called the federal response a massive failure, highlighting the need for better disaster preparedness and leadership. Meanwhile, the collapse of Baltimores Francis Scott Key Bridge in March exposed the fragility of Americas aging infrastructure. The cargo ship collision not only claimed lives but also disrupted shipping for weeks, costing billions in economic losses. The incident reignited debates about the nations crumbling infrastructure and the exorbitant costs of rebuilding. International tensions and assassination plots The year also saw escalating tensions in the Middle East. Israels targeted killings of top Hamas and Hezbollah leaders were met with mixed reactions, as critics accused Israel of reckless actions that could destabilize the region. The mysterious explosions of Hezbollah pagers in Lebanon, allegedly orchestrated by Israel, further heightened tensions. Closer to home, the FBI foiled an assassination plot against Trump by the Iranian government, highlighting the persistent threats faced by U.S. leaders. These incidents underscored the need for robust intelligence and security measures to protect American interests at home and abroad. A healthcare industry under scrutiny The murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December shocked the nation. While the killing was universally condemned, it sparked a broader conversation about the healthcare industrys prioritization of profits over patients. Critics pointed to rising insurance costs and limited access to care as symptoms of a broken system, calling for reforms to ensure that healthcare serves the people, not just corporate interests. The fall of Assad and Syrias uncertain future In December, Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country as rebel groups closed in on Damascus, ending his 24-year reign. While Assads departure was a victory for those who opposed his brutal regime, it left Syria in chaos, with various factions vying for control. The power vacuum raises concerns about the regions stability and the potential for further conflict. A Year of Reckoning 2024 was a year of reckoning for America, marked by political upheaval, natural disasters, and international challenges. As the nation looks ahead, the lessons of this tumultuous year must guide its path forward. From rebuilding infrastructure to restoring trust in leadership, the work ahead is daunting but essential. The years events remind us that leadership matters, accountability is non-negotiable, and the resilience of the American people remains our greatest strength. As we move into 2025, the nation must confront its challenges head on, ensuring a brighter and more secure future for all. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com FoxNews.com WashingtonTimes.com NYPost.com TheFederalist.com MSNBC analyst: Bidens handling of the border was not his finest moment Steve Rattner, a former official of the ex-President Barack Obama's administration, admitted that outgoing President Joe Biden's handling of immigration policies was "not Biden's finest moment." Rattner cited a chart from a New York Times op-ed showing a sharp increase in border crossings after Biden took office, reaching nearly 300,000 a month at its peak. He acknowledged President-elect Donald Trump's claim of low border crossings during his tenure, noting that crossings were about 74,000 a month when Trump left office. Rattner attributed the surge in migrant crossings to Biden's policies, including a moratorium on deportations. He noted an improvement in the situation, with current border crossings running at about 100,000 a month, similar to levels during the Trump administration. Former Obama administration official and prominent MSNBC's "Morning Joe" contributor Steve Rattner has finally admitted that President Joe Biden's handling of the border was "not his finest moment." During a recent segment analyzing key trends of 2024, Rattner, who currently manages the personal and philanthropic assets of former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, made these comments while discussing a chart from an op-ed he wrote for the New York Times. The chart stressed the significant increase in border crossings after Biden took office in January 2021. "The border was not Biden's finest moment, frankly," Rattner said, pointing to data showing a sharp rise in encounters between border officials and migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border. "You can see what happened here," he added, emphasizing the contrast between the pre-Biden and post-Biden periods. Rattner also addressed President-elect Donald Trump's claims about the low number of illegal crossings during his tenure. "And Trump is not wrong when he talks about how border crossings were quite low. They're running about 74,000 a month when he left office and they, in fact, did shoot up," he conceded. These crossings under the Biden administration reached almost 300,000 a month at its peak. (Related: 32% of American voters say illegal immigration should be Trump's top priority when he takes office.) He then attributed the surge in migrant crossings to "some things Biden said" and "some ways that they put a moratorium, for example, on deportations." Rattner: Border crossings now plunge to near-Trump levels Despite his acknowledgment, he noted that the situation has since improved, with border crossings currently running at about 100,000 a month. "But in fact, we did get up here almost to 300,000 a month. But what maybe people dont entirely know is that border crossings have come back down almost to where they were under Trump. They're running at about 100,000 at the moment. So we went up the hill and we went down the hill. But unfortunately, that was pretty costly to Biden during the election." Similarly, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas repeatedly stated that the border was secure before the House of Representatives voted to impeach him in March 2024. "I would respectfully disagree," he said during an interview with CNN in 2023 when asked about Republicans and Democrats claiming the Biden administration failed in securing the border. "We have been planning for months and months, over a year and a half. We have surged resources, asylum officers, Border Patrol agents, and processing coordinators to do the data entry work so our Border Patrol agents can be out in the field." "Weve expanded our holding capacity in Border Patrol stations. We've added beds to Immigration and Customs Enforcement in our detention facilities. We've increased our transportation resources, the number of flights, and removal flights with our foreign partners. We're setting up regional processing centers now. It's extraordinary what we've done over the past 18 months or so," he continued. However, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) figures, the Border Patrol has encountered millions of illegal immigrants since the start of fiscal year 2021. Visit OpenBorders.news for similar stories. Watch this video of Rattner discussing the chart from his op-ed article for the New York Times. This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Illegal immigration is costing American hospitals billions of dollars in unpaid medical bills. Illegal immigration skyrockets under Biden to third-highest level in 97 years. Illegal immigration is RIGGING House seats in Congress, stealing power away from real Americans and handing it over to illegals. Illegal immigration costs U.S. taxpayers $155 billion per year building a wall could pay for itself almost immediately. Time for state governors and legislators to be carted-off in federal hand cuffs for aiding and abetting ILLEGAL immigration. Sources include: ZeroHedge.com NYTimes.com NYPost.com DailyCaller.com Biden State Department approves informal, last-minute $8 BILLION ARMS DEAL with Israel The Biden administration is pushing an $8 billion arms deal to Israel, including missiles, artillery shells, and precision munitions, despite mounting evidence of genocide in Gaza. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have labeled Israels actions in Gaza as genocide, yet the U.S. continues to arm and fund its military campaign. The proposed deal includes weapons like Hellfire missiles and 155mm artillery shells, which have been used in attacks on civilian targets, including schools and hospitals. Despite calls from Democrats and human rights groups to condition arms sales, Biden has refused to hold Israel accountable for its violations of international law. Israel relies heavily on U.S. military aid, with 78% of its weapons coming from the U.S., enabling its ongoing campaign of destruction in Gaza. State Department pushes $8 Billion arms deal to Israel without Congressional approval The Biden administrations decision to push through an $8 billion arms deal with Israel is not just a policy failureit is a moral catastrophe. At a time when human rights organizations like Amnesty International have unequivocally labeled Israels actions in Gaza as genocide, the U.S. is doubling down on its complicity in the slaughter of Palestinians. This deal, which includes Hellfire missiles, 155mm artillery shells, and precision-guided munitions, is not about defense. It is about enabling Israels relentless campaign of annihilation in Gaza, where over 30,000 Palestinians have been killed, and countless more displaced, starved, and traumatized. The timing of this deal is particularly grotesque. It comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right government continue to escalate their war efforts, flattening entire neighborhoods, bombing hospitals, and targeting civilians with impunity. The U.S.-supplied weapons being used in these attacks are not just tools of warthey are instruments of genocide. From the small-diameter bombs that obliterated a school in June, killing 40 civilians, to the artillery shells that have turned Gaza into a wasteland, every weapon sent to Israel is soaked in Palestinian blood. Amnesty International calls out Israels genocidal actions, demands stop to arms deals with Israel Amnesty Internationals recent report leaves no room for ambiguity: Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. The organization has called on the U.S. and other arms-supplying nations to halt weapons transfers immediately, warning that continued support makes these countries complicit in Israels atrocities. Yet, the Biden administration has chosen to ignore these calls, prioritizing Israels long-term security over the lives of Palestinians. This is not just a failure of leadershipit is a betrayal of the very principles of human rights and international law that the U.S. claims to uphold. Israel launched a large-scale military offensive in Gaza following the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas, vowing to destroy Hamass military and governing capabilities and secure the release of hostages. The offensive began with intense airstrikes, with around 10,000 strikes in the first two months, many using heavy explosives in densely populated areas, including near hospitals and critical infrastructure. This caused widespread devastation in Gaza, one of the most densely populated regions globally. On October 13, 2023, Israel ordered 1.1 million people in northern Gaza to evacuate south, including displaced individuals sheltering in UN schools and patients and staff in 23 hospitals. Humanitarian organizations were forced to abandon supplies and re-establish operations in Rafah. Israeli officials used dehumanizing rhetoric, with President Isaac Herzog holding all Gazans responsible for Hamass actions, and other leaders equating Palestinian civilians with terrorists. These statements fueled concerns about genocidal intent. By late 2023, international experts and organizations warned of a potential genocide in Gaza. South Africa filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention. The ICJ issued provisional measures to protect Palestinians, but Israel failed to comply. Despite international condemnation, Israel continued its offensive, culminating in a ground operation in Rafah in May 2024, despite warnings of catastrophic humanitarian consequences. Rafah, sheltering over 1 million displaced people, was a key humanitarian hub. The operation drew global criticism and further ICJ orders to halt the offensive. By October 2024, over 42,000 Palestinians had been killed, including 13,319 children, and nearly 100,000 injured. The destruction of homes and infrastructure was unprecedented, with 63% of Gazas structures damaged or destroyed by July 2024. Schools, hospitals, and economic sectors were devastated, leaving 625,000 students without education and displacing over 1 million people. The Rafah crossing, a vital lifeline to Egypt, was destroyed, further isolating Gaza. In May 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) sought arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel opened investigations into 70 incidents but only indicted one soldier, reflecting a pattern of impunity. Despite ICJ rulings calling for an end to Israels occupation and annexation of Palestinian territories, Israel entrenched its military presence in Gaza, further fragmenting the region. Amnesty International analyzed Israels actions under the Genocide Convention, which defines genocide as acts intended to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. The organization concluded that Israels offensive, including its rhetoric and policies, demonstrated intent to destroy a substantial part of the Palestinian population in Gaza, constituting genocide under international law. The analysis emphasized that genocidal intent does not require success in destroying the group and can coexist with military objectives. Amnesty called for accountability and adherence to international law to prevent further atrocities. Sources include: Axios.com News.Antiwar.com Amnesty.org Homeland Security corruption: Federal agents BUSTED in Utah drug scheme Two DHS agents, Nicholas Kindle and David Cole, have been accused of conspiring to sell seized drugs, including synthetic substances like bath salts, and pocketing between $195,000 and $300,000 in illicit profits from 2022 to 2024. The agents allegedly stole drugs from DHS evidence lockers, falsely claiming they were needed for investigations, and sold them through a confidential informant. They also stole cash, a diamond ring, and a Peruvian antiquity from evidence, using encrypted apps to coordinate deals. The agents misconduct began as early as 2021, yet they were not fired despite their arrests, raising concerns about accountability and oversight within federal law enforcement agencies. Kindle faces up to 25 years in prison for drug distribution conspiracy and theft, while Cole, who pleaded not guilty, could face 20 years. The case highlights systemic issues and erodes public trust in government institutions. The scandal underscores the dangers of unchecked government power and the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent similar abuses in the future, as well as greater transparency and accountability within federal agencies. In a shocking case that underscores the dangers of unchecked government power, two Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents in Utah have been charged with conspiring to sell seized drugs and pocketing hundreds of thousands of dollars in illicit profits. The allegations against Special Agents Nicholas Kindle and David Cole reveal a disturbing abuse of authority, raising serious questions about accountability within federal law enforcement agencies. According to court documents, Kindle and Cole allegedly used their positions as federal agents to acquire illegal drugs, including synthetic substances known as bath salts, from DHS evidence lockers and other law enforcement personnel. They falsely claimed the drugs were needed for legitimate investigations, only to sell them through a confidential informant who resold the substances on the streets of Utah. The FBI estimates the scheme generated between $195,000 and $300,000 in profits between 2022 and 2024. The agents alleged crimes go beyond drug trafficking. Prosecutors accuse them of stealing thousands of dollars in cash, a diamond ring, and a Peruvian antiquity from evidence. They reportedly used encrypted messaging apps to coordinate drug deals, directing their informant to meet at locations such as a Panera Bread restaurant and a Nike store. In one instance, the informant retrieved a foam cup containing drugs from a parking lot trash can, a brazen act that highlights the agents disregard for the law they were sworn to uphold. Kindle and Coles alleged misconduct began as early as 2021, when they started stealing drugs from evidence and lying to fellow agents about their intentions. Despite their arrests and the suspension of their DHS credentials, neither has been fired, a fact that will undoubtedly fuel public skepticism about the governments ability to hold its own accountable. The case came to light in October 2024, when the informants lawyer contacted the U.S. Attorneys Office in Utah, alleging that Kindle and Cole had coerced their client into participating in illegal activities. The FBI launched an investigation, recording eight instances of illegal drug sales to the informant. Kindle faces charges of felony drug distribution conspiracy and conspiracy to convert U.S. government property for personal gain. His court date is set for January 21, and he could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted. Cole, who pleaded not guilty, is charged with felony drug distribution conspiracy and will stand trial beginning February 24. He faces up to 20 years in prison. Is anyone surprised? The Justice Department has framed the case as a testament to its commitment to rooting out corruption, with Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri stating, A drug dealer who carries a badge is still a drug dealer. While such rhetoric may reassure some, it does little to address the systemic issues that allowed this scheme to unfold. This scandal is a stark reminder of the risks posed by an overreaching federal government. When agents tasked with enforcing the law become its most egregious violators, it erodes public trust and undermines the very institutions meant to protect citizens. The fact that Kindle and Cole were able to operate unchecked for years raises troubling questions about oversight within DHS and other federal agencies. As the trials approach, Americans should demand transparency and accountability. The government must prove that no one is above the law, especially those entrusted with its enforcement. Until then, this case serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing too much power in the hands of a fewand the urgent need for reform to prevent such abuses in the future. For now, the public is left to wonder: How many more bad actors are lurking within the government, shielded by bureaucracy and a lack of oversight? The answer, unfortunately, may be far more unsettling than people care to admit. Sources include: 100percentFedUp.com FoxNews.com Justice.gov Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua The next few weeks will determine whether Ukraine can continue to exist as a sovereign state, but a bad deal imposed by Donald Trump could be the worst option, since a settlement at the expense of Ukrainian territories would reward Putin and undermine trust in the United States, The Washington Post writes. "Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, nearing the end of its third bloody year, has reached an inflection point. Ukraine is losing territory, troops and time. The next few weeks will determine whether Ukraine can continue to exist as a sovereign state within its preinvasion borders, or close to them, with full security guarantees for its citizens or whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will be rewarded and emboldened in his war of territorial expansion," the publication reports on Tuesday. "How this conflict is resolved will have ramifications far beyond Ukraine, belying the notion expressed by some... that this is Europes problem. At stake is the credibility of the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which immediately aided Ukraine after Russias illegal and unprovoked invasion and vowed to continue their support 'as long as it takes' to defeat Russias aggression," The Washington Post writes. The partners' aid, which arrived late to Ukraine, allowed Putin to gain a foothold and build up his military power in alliance with the North Koreans and China. Now Ukraine is losing territory, people and, most importantly, time. "Ukraine can hardly survive another year of this devastating war. But the haste to find a negotiated settlement could produce a bad one that would reward Mr. Putin for his land grab and guarantee he will launch a new attack for more territory once he has a chance to rebuild his depleted arsenal. A poor settlement would also leave Ukrainians bitter after seeing their homes, schools and factories destroyed, and friends and family members killed. Much of their anger would be directed at the Western backers who betrayed them. This is a fight America, and Ukraine, cannot lose, especially with a bad deal," the publication reports. The hidden dangers of Red No. 3: Why the FDA should ban this synthetic food dye The FDA is considering banning Red No. 3 (erythrosine), a synthetic food dye linked to cancer and hyperactivity in children, from the U.S. food supply. This decision could mark a significant shift in food safety regulations. Red No. 3, a petroleum-derived dye used in candies, baked goods, and snacks, has been associated with cancer in animal studies and behavioral issues in children. It was banned in cosmetics in 1990 but remains in food products despite decades of health concerns. The FDAs potential ban follows Californias decision to ban Red No. 3 and other synthetic dyes by 2027. However, the food industry has historically resisted such bans, arguing that synthetic dyes are essential for maintaining vibrant food colors. Red No. is part of a larger issue with synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 40 and Yellow No. 5, which have also been linked to hyperactivity and behavioral problems in children. Advocates urge the FDA to prioritize public health by banning Red No. 3 and aligning U.S. regulations with stricter international standards. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is on the verge of making a landmark decision that could reshape the American food industry. Red No. 3, a synthetic food dye also known as erythrosine, is under scrutiny for its potential health risks, and the FDA is considering banning it from the U.S. food supply. This move comes after decades of mounting evidence linking the dye to cancer, hyperactivity in children and other serious health concerns. Despite being banned in cosmetics since 1990 due to its carcinogenic effects, Red No. 3 remains a common ingredient in thousands of food products, from candies to baked goods. Red No. 3 (erythrosine) is a petroleum-derived synthetic dye that is used to make foods bright cherry-red. It is commonly found in popular snacks like Betty Crocker products, Peeps, Pez and cake-decorating gels and maraschino cherries. But while Red No. 3, also called Red 3, adds visual appeal to food, it offers no nutritional value. Its primary purpose is to make food look more enticing, often masking the lack of natural ingredients or quality in processed foods. The controversy surrounding Red No. 3 is not new. In 1990, the FDA banned its use in cosmetics and topical medications after studies showed it caused cancer in laboratory animals. This decision was based on the Delaney Clause, a 1960 amendment to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act that prohibits the use of any color additive shown to cause cancer in humans or animals. However, the FDA allowed Red No. 3 to remain in food products, a decision that has puzzled public health advocates for decades. Recent research has only added to the concerns. A 2021 review by the California Environmental Protection Agency linked synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 3, to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral issues in children. The study found that some children are particularly sensitive to these dyes, experiencing symptoms that mimic attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Thomas Galligan, a principal scientist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), emphasized this point. Galligan explained that evidence "shows pretty conclusively" that when some children consume foods containing synthetic food dyes, they will experience "nervous system effects that look like ADHD." The push for change The FDAs potential ban on Red No. 3 follows Californias groundbreaking decision last year to ban four synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 3, by 2027. This move aligns California with stricter European Union regulations, where many synthetic dyes are either banned or require warning labels. European countries have long taken a precautionary approach to food safety, prioritizing consumer health over industry interests. (Related: STUDY: Food dye tartrazine temporarily makes skin and muscle TRANSPARENT.) Congressman Frank Pallone Jr., a vocal advocate for food safety, has been pushing the FDA to take action. In a letter to the agency, he wrote that there is "simply no reason for this chemical to be in our food except to entice and mislead consumers by changing the color of their food so it looks more appealing." Pallone Jr. also expressed concerns that during the holiday season, which often has sweet treats in abundance, children could be eating many foods that may contain Red No. 3. Industry resistance and regulatory challenges Despite the growing evidence of harm, the food industry has historically resisted efforts to ban Red No. 3. In the 1980s, when the FDA first attempted to ban the dye, the maraschino cherry industry lobbied heavily to keep it on the market. Today, the National Confectioners Association argues that synthetic dyes like Red No. 3 are essential for maintaining the vibrant colors consumers expect in their favorite treats. Christopher Gindlesperger, a spokesperson for the association, has claimed that these "vibrant colors" are important to the industry. The FDA, for its part, maintains that Red No. 3 is safe when consumed in accordance with its regulations. However, critics argue that the agencys standards are outdated and fail to account for the cumulative effects of long-term exposure to synthetic dyes. As Galligan pointed out, food dyes only make food look "pretty" so consumers will want to buy them. He added that dyes don't have any other function except as "a marketing tool." The broader issue of synthetic food dyes Red No. 3 is just one of many synthetic food dyes that have come under scrutiny. Other commonly used dyes, such as Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6, have also been linked to behavioral issues and hyperactivity in children. While these dyes are approved by both the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), their safety remains a topic of debate. Some studies suggest that certain dyes may contain cancer-causing contaminants, though regulatory agencies argue that these contaminants are present in levels too low to pose a significant risk. The inconsistency in global regulations further complicates the issue. For example, Green No. 3 is approved in the U.S. but banned in Europe, while Quinoline Yellow is allowed in the EU but prohibited in the U.S. This patchwork of regulations makes it difficult for consumers to assess the safety of the foods they eat. A call for action The potential ban on Red No. 3 represents a critical opportunity for the FDA to prioritize public health over corporate interests. By aligning U.S. regulations with stricter international standards, the agency could set a precedent for addressing other harmful additives in the food supply. As Susan Little of the Environmental Working Group explained, it doesn't make sense that "the same products food manufacturers sell in California are sold in the EU but without these toxic chemicals." American children "need to be protected, too," advised Little. For consumers, the best course of action is to read labels carefully and avoid products containing synthetic dyes whenever possible. Natural alternatives, such as beet extract and beta carotene, can provide vibrant colors without the associated health risks. While these options may be more expensive, the long-term benefits to health are well worth the investment. The FDAs impending decision on Red No. 3 is a pivotal moment in the fight for safer food. With overwhelming evidence linking the dye to cancer and behavioral issues in children, there is no justification for its continued use in food products. By banning Red No. 3, the FDA can take a significant step toward protecting public health and ensuring that the foods consumers eat are as safe as they are appealing. Visit Ingredients.news to read more articles about other harmful food additives. Watch the video below to find out how food dyes are being rebranded with fake natural-sounding names to fool consumers. This video is from the Robyn Openshaw Truth Channel channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Research shows food dyes can damage DNA structure and cause cancer. Study: Artificial food dyes linked to BEHAVIORAL ISSUES in kids. EFSA independent analysis reveals aspartame is a neurotoxic additive. Check out these 7 food additives that are BANNED in Europe but commonly used in the U.S. Sources include: TimesOfIndia.IndiaTimes.com FoodAndWine.com Healthline.com Brighteon.com Honduras threatens to expel U.S. military over Trumps deportation plans Honduran President Xiomara Castro threatens to evict U.S. forces if President-elect Trump deports illegal immigrants. Soto Cano Air Base is a critical U.S. military hub in Central America, supporting counter-narcotics, disaster relief, and regional security. Castros threat ignores $780.5 million in U.S. aid to Honduras from 2020-2023 and the economic benefits of hosting the base. Honduras depends on remittances from its U.S.-based citizens, which make up 25% of its GDP, driving Castros opposition to deportations. Critics within Honduras warn that Castros threat risks isolating the country and jeopardizing its relationship with the U.S. Honduran President Xiomara Castro has issued a bold threat to evict U.S. military forces from the country if President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his promise to deport millions of illegal immigrants. This ultimatum, delivered during a New Years Day address, underscores the growing tension between the U.S. and Latin American nations over immigration policy. While Castros rhetoric may resonate with some, her threat is not only reckless but also reveals a glaring financial motive: Honduras relies heavily on remittances from its citizens living in the U.S., which account for a staggering 25% of the countrys GDP. Soto Cano Air Base, located in Comayagua, Honduras, has been a cornerstone of U.S. military operations in Central America since 1983 and is the largest American military installation in Central America. Home to Joint Task Force Bravo, the base serves as a critical hub for counter-narcotics missions, disaster relief, and regional security operations. With more than 1,000 U.S. military and civilian personnel stationed there, Soto Cano is a linchpin of American influence in the region. Castros threat to expel U.S. forces from Soto Cano is not just a diplomatic spat; its a direct challenge to American interests. She claims the U.S. has maintained its presence without paying a cent for decades, conveniently ignoring the $780.5 million in aid provided to Honduras by the U.S. between 2020 and 2023 alone. This aid, along with the economic benefits of hosting the base, makes her threat seem more like political posturing than a serious policy proposal. A financial incentive to keep Hondurans in the U.S. Castros threat is deeply rooted in economic self-interest. An estimated 5% of Honduras populationover half a million peoplelives in the U.S., many of them illegally. The money these migrants send back to their families in Honduras, known as remittances, makes up a quarter of the countrys GDP. For Castro, mass deportations would be an economic disaster, stripping her nation of a vital lifeline. This reliance on remittances highlights a troubling dynamic: rather than addressing the root causes of migrationsuch as corruption, poverty, and violenceHonduras has become dependent on its citizens fleeing to the U.S. and sending money home. Castros threat to expel U.S. forces is less about protecting her people and more about preserving this financial pipeline. Trumps America-First Approach is the right path President-elect Trumps promise to deport illegal immigrants and secure the southern border is a necessary step to restore order and uphold the rule of law. The U.S. cannot continue to bear the burden of illegal immigration, which strains public resources and undermines national security. Castros threat only reinforces the need for a firm stance on immigration enforcement. Trumps critics often accuse him of being overly harsh, but his approach is rooted in fairness and accountability. If Honduras is unwilling to address the factors driving its citizens to flee, it cannot expect the U.S. to shoulder the consequences indefinitely. Deporting illegal immigrants is not just a matter of policy; its a matter of sovereignty. Even within Honduras, Castros threat has drawn criticism. Political opponents like Jorge Calix, a potential presidential challenger, have warned that her rhetoric puts Honduras in grave danger. Another critic, Olban Valladares, noted that Honduras lacks the leverage to threaten the U.S. and that such a move would only invite retaliation. These critics understand the reality: Honduras depends on the U.S. for trade, aid, and security. Expelling American forces would not stop deportations but would instead isolate Honduras and jeopardize its relationship with its most important ally. A reckless gamble with high stakes Castros threat to evict U.S. forces from Soto Cano is a reckless gamble that prioritizes short-term political gains over long-term stability. It also exposes the hypocrisy of a leader who relies on American generosity while threatening to undermine U.S. interests. President-elect Trumps commitment to deporting illegal immigrants and securing the border is the right course of action. Its time for countries like Honduras to take responsibility for their own citizens and address the issues driving migration, rather than relying on the U.S. to prop up their economies. Castros threat may sound bold, but its a hollow gesture that ultimately underscores the need for stronger borders and a more assertive American foreign policy. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com TheHill.com NYTimes.com Illegal immigrant from Dominican Republic ARRESTED for drug and weapon trafficking at taxpayer-funded migrant shelter A Dominican illegal immigrant named Leonardo Andujar Sanchez was arrested at a taxpayer-funded "migrant hotel" in Suffolk County for weapon and drug trafficking. During a search of the shelter, authorities found a loaded AR-15 tactical rifle, three large-capacity rifle magazines and approximately 5 kilograms of fentanyl with an estimated street value of over $1 million. Sanchez, 28, faces 10 firearm offenses and one count of trafficking in fentanyl. He was ordered held without bail due to the potential for significant harm posed by the combination of lethal drugs, the assault rifle, and the amount of ammunition. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a detainer on Sanchez, and he is expected to be deported once his criminal charges are resolved. The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities removed Sanchez from the Emergency Assistance Program and expressed its "zero tolerance" stance towards criminal activity in shelters, praising the swift response of the Revere Police Department and other agencies involved in the case. An illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic at a taxpayer-funded "migrant hotel" has been arrested on serious charges of weapon and drug trafficking. According to the details released by the Revere Police Department (RPD) on Jan. 3, detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division and Special Investigations Unit, along with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department, conducted a search in a state-run emergency shelter under the Emergency Family Shelter (EA) program at Quality Inn in Suffolk County. The group obtained a warrant on Dec. 27. Inside the room, they discovered a loaded AR-15 tactical rifle along with three large-capacity rifle magazines, one of which was loaded with .556 rounds. Additionally, the search uncovered approximately five kilograms of fentanyl, with an estimated street value exceeding $1 million, as well as three large-capacity rifle magazines, one of which was loaded. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration claimed that the amount of fentanyl seized could potentially kill roughly 2.5 million people. "This individual endangered occupants of the hotel, on-site workers, public safety personnel and the community at large," Revere Police Chief David J. Callahan said. "His arrest underscores our commitment to work tirelessly to protect our community from those dealing deadly Fentanyl and possessing illegal firearms." Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, a 28-year-old Dominican national, was apprehended and charged with 10 firearm offenses and one count of trafficking in fentanyl that same day. Sanchez, who entered the U.S. illegally last year, was ordered held without bail, citing the potential for significant harm due to the combination of lethal drugs, the assault rifle and the amount of ammunition. "Given the potential for harm due to the lethality and amount of fentanyl together with the AR-15 and the amount of ammunition together with his lack of ties to the community, there are no conditions that would ensure the safety of the community," Judge Jane Prince wrote in her order for pretrial detention. Moreover, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a detainer on Andujar Sanchez and it is expected that he will be deported once his criminal charges are resolved. The case is set to continue with a probable cause hearing scheduled for Feb. 3. (Related: Illegal immigrants self-deporting ahead of Trump's return to the White House.) Sanchez removed from Emergency Assistance Program The Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, which oversees the EA program, expressed its "zero tolerance" stance towards criminal activity in shelters. They confirmed that Sanchez had been terminated from the EA system and that federal immigration officials had lodged a detainer. "We took immediate action to terminate this individual from the EA system, and we confirmed with federal immigration officials that they have lodged a detainer," a spokesperson said in a statement. "We're grateful to the Revere Police Department and Suffolk County District Attorney's Office for their swift response." Meanwhile, Revere Mayor Patrick M. Keefe Jr. praised the police department for their work. "We are proud of the tireless work of our officers to keep illegal guns and drugs off our streets and build trust in our neighborhoods," Keefe said. "This arrest is the result of solid police work and cross-agency collaboration. Its a reflection of the City of Revere's steadfast commitment to community policing and to protect all of our residents." Follow InvasionUSA.news for more stories about the ongoing illegal immigration happening in America. Watch this episode of "The Breanna Morello Show" as Breanna Morello interviews Dan Lyman about men of military age illegally entering the United States. This video is from the MyPodcastDropped2320 channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: POLL: 48% of Canadians favor mass deportations of illegal immigrants. NYC removes all Illegal immigrants from Orange County Hotels: It's time for them to leave. Illegal immigrants rejoice following leftist victory in British election. Illegal immigrants are throwing away their military IDs before entering America, says Border Hawk's Dan Lyman. Illegal immigrants leaving U.S. hospitals with BILLIONS in unpaid medical bills. Sources include: Infowars.com Boston.com Brighteon.com Justin Trudeau announces RESIGNATION after nearly a decade in power, sparking calls for snap election Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will step down as Liberal Party leader and prime minister once a successor is chosen, ending his nine-year tenure amid declining public support and internal party divisions. Trudeau secured Gov. Gen. Mary Simons approval to prorogue Parliament until March 24, halting legislative activity and a no-confidence vote to allow the Liberals time to hold a leadership election. Trudeau's resignation comes as the Liberal Party faces a crisis of dwindling popularity and internal party fracturing. Opposition leaders like Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and the NDP's Jagmeet Singh are pushing to bring down Trudeau's government early and trigger a snap election. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday, Jan. 6, that he will step down as leader of the Liberal Party and as prime minister once a successor is chosen, marking the end of a tumultuous nine-year tenure. The decision, made amid plummeting public support for his Liberal Party and internal party strife over Trudeau's continued leadership, has ignited fierce criticism from Leader of the Opposition and Conservative Party chief Pierre Poilievre, who dismissed Trudeau's impending resignation as a "trick" to keep the Liberals in power for a few more months. Trudeau's decision to eventually step down also came with an announcement that he has received the support of Gov. Gen. Mary Simon to prorogue Parliament until March 24, during which time the House of Commons will not be able to meet except during an emergency session. This time will allow the Liberals to hold a leadership election. Trudeau, 53, made the announcement outside his official residence, Rideau Cottage, after weeks of speculation about his political future. He cited internal party divisions as the primary reason for his decision, stating that he could no longer effectively lead the Liberals into the next election. "This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it's become clear to me that if Im having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election," Trudeau told reporters. The prime minister's resignation comes at a time of deepening political crisis for the Liberal Party. Recent polls show the Conservatives leading with 45 percent support, compared to just 16 percent for the Liberals. Over half of Canadians, according to an Ipsos survey, want an immediate election to remove Trudeau "at the earliest opportunity." The Angus Reid Institute found that 38 percent of respondents favor an election as early as February, rather than waiting until the constitutional deadline of Oct. 20. (Related: Poll: Support for Conservatives in Canada's Ontario Province rises to 51%.) However, Canadians are unlikely to see an election until early May following Trudeau's decision to prorogue Parliament until March 24 and the government's requirement that an election period must be a minimum of 36 days. Trudeaus decision to prorogue Parliament until March 24 has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accuse him of delaying accountability. Prorogation effectively halts all parliamentary activity, including pending bills and committee work and any potential no-confidence motions from the opposition while allowing the government to remain in power. This has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders like Poilievre, who have accused Trudeau of delaying accountability with prorogation. Trudeau defended the move, saying it would "decrease the level of polarization" in Canadian politics and give the Liberals time to select a new leader. Canadian conservative and left-wing opposition leaders call for snap election Poilievre dismissed Trudeaus resignation as a cynical ploy to maintain Liberal control. "Nothing has changed," Poilievre wrote on social media. 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. Poilievre called for an immediate election, arguing that only a Conservative government could reverse the damage caused by Liberal policies. Trudeau's resignation follows months of internal dissent within the Liberal Party. At least two dozen MPs and several regional caucuses had called for his departure before the holiday break. The resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland in December from Trudeau's cabinet further underscored the fractures within the government. The Liberal Party now faces the daunting task of selecting a new leader who can unite the party and counter Poilievres surging Conservatives. Names floated as potential successors include Freeland herself, as well as cabinet ministers Dominic LeBlanc and Melanie Joly and former Bank of Canada Gov. Mark Carney. The leadership race is expected to be highly competitive, with the winner tasked with salvaging the Liberals dwindling election prospects. Meanwhile, opposition leaders are preparing to capitalize on the Liberals' vulnerability. Jagmeet Singh, leader of the left-wing New Democratic Party who previously helped prop up a Liberal minority government in exchange for policy concessions, said his party would vote at the earliest possible time to bring down Trudeau's government and usher in an early election. "The problem is not just Justin Trudeau. It's every minister that's been calling the shots," Singh said in a statement. "The Liberals do not deserve another chance, no matter who is the leader." Watch this video showing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's full statement regarding his resignation. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: NDP leader Jagmeet Singh vows to introduce motion of no confidence against Trudeau. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau contemplates resignation as tariff war with the U.S. looms. SINKING SHIP: Trudeau era on the brink of collapse as Canada braces for a potential tariff war with the U.S. under Trump. Members of Justin Trudeau's own party sign document calling for his resignation. Trudeau willing to make a deal with Quebec nationalists to prevent snap election. Sources include: Breitbart.com CBC.ca Elections.ca Brighteon.com Calls for JUSTICE: Trump urged to pardon J6 protesters as 2025 inauguration nears A growing movement, led by figures like Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, urges President-elect Donald Trump to pardon individuals convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol protests, framing their prosecutions as politically motivated. Adams alleges the event was a "staged insurrection trap" orchestrated by the FBI, Capitol Police and Democrats to criminalize Trump supporters, with over 1,000 peaceful protesters still incarcerated. Adams also pushes for pardons for high-profile figures like Julian Assange, Edward Snowden and Ross Ulbricht, viewing them as victims of government overreach and political persecution. The push for pardons has gained traction among Trump's base, who see the prosecutions as evidence of a weaponized justice system, while critics warn it could deepen national divisions. Adams frames the issue as a fight to restore faith in the justice system and protect Americans from persecution based on their political beliefs, emphasizing the need for accountability and principle. A growing chorus of voices is urging President-elect Donald Trump to pardon individuals convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol protests. Among the most vocal advocates is Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, who has labeled the Jan. 6 incident a "staged insurrection trap" orchestrated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Capitol Police and the Democratic Party to vilify Trump supporters. In a recent broadcast, Adams claimed that over 1,000 peaceful protesters remain incarcerated, calling their imprisonment "unacceptable." With Trump's inauguration just two weeks away, Adams implored the incoming administration to exonerate all J6 defendants immediately, arguing that their convictions were the result of entrapment and political persecution. "The J6 event was a trap designed to criminalize Trump supporters and pro-liberty advocates," Adams said. "These individuals were caught up in an FBI entrapment scheme, and their charges should be reversed. They should be exonerated, not just pardoned." Adams' remarks come amid heightened tensions as the nation reflects on the events of Jan. 6, 2021. While mainstream narratives have framed the day as an insurrection, Adams and others argue that the majority of attendees were peaceful protesters exercising their First Amendment rights. He emphasized that many of those imprisoned have already served sentences but continue to bear the stigma of felony convictions, which he described as a grave injustice. "All these people did was show up to peacefully protest what they believed was a stolen election," Adams said. "The election was stolen, and these individuals were targeted for their political beliefs." Health Ranger also calls on Trump to pardon other high-profile political prisoners Adams' call for pardons extends beyond J6 defendants. He also urged Trump to pardon high-profile figures such as Roger Ver, Ross Ulbricht, Julian Assange and Edward Snowden, whom he views as victims of government overreach and political persecution. (Related: Roger Ver being PARDONED by Trump lines up with president-elect's plan to make America the world's crypto frontier.) The push for pardons has gained traction among Trump's base, with many viewing the J6 prosecutions as a symbol of the deep state's efforts to suppress dissent. Adams' broadcast, which blends political commentary with preparedness advice and cultural insights, has resonated with a wide audience, particularly those who feel disillusioned by the current political climate. As Trump prepares to take office, the question of whether he will issue pardons for J6 defendants remains a topic of intense speculation. Supporters argue that such a move would be a powerful statement against what they see as a weaponized justice system, while critics warn that it could further polarize an already divided nation. Adams, however, remains steadfast in his belief that justice must be served. "Every single one of these individuals needs to be pardoned," he said. "Their freedom is a matter of principle, and its time to right this wrong." As the nation braces for Trump's return to the White House, the debate over J6 pardons underscores the deep ideological divides that continue to shape American politics. Whether Trump heeds Adams' call or not, the issue is sure to remain a flashpoint in the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability. For now, Adams and his supporters are holding out hope that the incoming administration will prioritize the exoneration of those they believe were unfairly targeted. "This is about more than just pardons," Adams concluded. "It's about restoring faith in our justice system and ensuring that no American is persecuted for their beliefs." Watch this Jan. 6, 2025 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News," the Health Ranger Mike Adams' J6 Special episode discussing the need to pardon all Jan. 6 political prisoners. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump willing to PARDON NYC Mayor Adams, escalating war on Biden's open borders policies. Pardons and payback: A blueprint for Trump's DOJ to free the patriots and punish the real J6 plotters. Trump hints at pardon for J6 political prisoners after Joe Biden pardons his son. Sources include: Brighteon.com APNews.com TheGuardian.com Trumps impending return to the White House fuels fears of retaliation, legal action National security attorney Mark Zaid revealed that high-level officials and insiders are preparing to leave the U.S. to avoid legal repercussions under President Donald Trump's administration. Zaid's clients, who have been explicitly named by the former president, are taking proactive measures to protect themselves from perceived legal threats. The pharmaceutical industry, including top executives, is experiencing panic due to potential investigations into alleged collusion with social media platforms during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is expected to play a significant role in the Trump administration, has promised to dismantle the World Health Organization (WHO) and investigate individuals like Bill Gates and Dr. Anthony Fauci. In a startling development, national security attorney Mark Zaid has revealed that a significant number of high-level officials and insiders within the "Washington deep state" are preparing to leave the U.S. to avoid legal repercussions under the incoming President Donald Trump's administration. The attorney's disclosure, made during a CNN interview, underscores the growing unease within certain government and corporate circles as Trump prepares to take office. Zaid explained that his clients are taking proactive measures to protect themselves from what they perceive as imminent legal threats. "Donald Trump and his allies have made it abundantly clear during the campaign and beyond that they plan to retaliate swiftly," Zaid said. "We are taking those threats seriously, and preparations are already underway." The attorney's statements come amid a broader climate of unease, particularly within government and corporate sectors. While many federal employees have expressed unease about their job security and potential legal repercussions, Zaid's clients represent a more targeted group. (Related: FBI Director Wray to resign before Trump's second term begins.) "This isn't something to take lightly," he added. "We are talking about people who have been explicitly named and singled out by the former president." This revelation is part of a larger narrative of accountability and potential legal action. In the pharmaceutical industry, top executives are reportedly on edge as Trump's inauguration nears, coupled with growing scrutiny from figures like environmental lawyer and vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kennedy has warned the World Health Organization (WHO) and Big Pharma executives of impending investigations into "crimes against humanity." Jamel Holley, a Kennedy advisor and New Jersey assemblyman confirmed the industry's unease, stating, "The top CEOs are in a state of panic." This panic stems from the potential investigation into alleged collusion with social media platforms to censor medical information during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Role of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Trump administration Robert F. Kennedy Jr., expected to play a significant role as "health czar" in the Trump administration, has promised to dismantle the WHO, an action he claims will pave the way for accountability at the highest levels. Kennedy's warnings extend to individuals such as billionaire Bill Gates and former White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, both of whom have faced intense scrutiny over their roles in the pandemic response. Kennedy has been a vocal critic of the WHO, arguing that it has fallen under the control of global elites and foreign powers that do not prioritize America's interests. "Their pandemic treaty grants them sweeping authority the moment they declare a pandemic, regardless of whether one truly exists," Kennedy emphasized. In a broader context, Kennedy's actions and promises reflect a larger trend of questioning international institutions and their role in domestic governance. This is not merely a political maneuver but a call to arms for those concerned about sovereignty and the potential overreach of global bodies. As Trump's administration takes shape, the coming weeks and months will reveal the extent of the legal and political challenges facing those within the Washington deep state and the pharmaceutical industry. Zaid's disclosures and Kennedy's warnings highlight the complex interplay between government, corporate interests and international institutions. Kennedy's call for citizens to educate themselves is a reminder that, despite the complexity and power of these institutions, the ultimate authority lies with the people. As the new administration sets its agenda, the coming months will test the balance between accountability, sovereignty and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. This situation underscores the ongoing debate about the role of international institutions in domestic policy and the need for transparency and accountability in government and corporate actions. As the dust settles, the true test of American democracy will be its ability to navigate these challenges while upholding the values enshrined in its Constitution. Visit Trump.news for updates on the 47th POTUS. Watch the video below where Sen. Jim Banks (R-IN) talks about the GOP being unified behind Trump. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: A strategic investment: Meta donates $1M to Trump inauguration fund. Trump extends unprecedented invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping for inauguration. Biden admin races to fill 1,200 DEI positions with $160M price tag before Trump inauguration. Biden approves $20B loan to Ukraine right before Trump takes office. Sources include: DissWire.com YouTube.com Brighteon.com The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has neutralized an FSB agent network that, on orders from the enemy, was collecting information about officials of international organizations and volunteers in Kyiv, Dnipro, and Odesa. "In order to establish the addresses of residence, car license numbers, and travel routes of these individuals, the Russian special service remotely recruited a capital lawyer. He attracted several accomplices from three regions of Ukraine to the criminal activity," the Telegram channel said on Tuesday. On the instructions of the occupiers, the defendants secretly monitored the "objects," including using optical devices. "The resident (leader) of the agent group periodically set up 'observation posts' with binoculars on the roofs of buildings opposite the offices of officials of international organizations and volunteers," the report says. He reportedly compiled information from all members of the enemy cell and sent it as a single "report" to his Russian handler, a career FSB officer. The SBU detained the head of the spy group and his accomplices in Kyiv. During the documentation of the criminal activities of the defendants, it was established that they also adjusted missile strikes on defense plants and energy facilities in Ukraine. During the search, 15 mobile phones were seized from the detainees, which were used for secret communication with the occupiers. Optics and flash drives with evidence of the crimes were also seized. Investigators of the Security Service informed the detainees of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 28, Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (high treason committed under martial law by prior conspiracy by a group of persons). The perpetrators are in custody. They face life imprisonment with confiscation of property. The investigation is ongoing to bring to justice all members of the enemy cell. Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Public cloud network outages: Globally, cloud provider network outages jumped from 76 to 142 outages. In the U.S., cloud provider network outages increased from 69 to 110 outages. Collaboration app network outages: Globally, collaboration application network outages remained unchanged from the week prior, recording 1 outage. In the U.S., collaboration application network outages dropped to zero. Two notable outages On January 24, Lumen, a U.S. based Tier 1 carrier, experienced an outage that affected customers and downstream partners across multiple regions including the U.S., Italy, Canada, France, India, the U.K., Germany, and the Netherlands. The outage, lasting a total of 37 minutes, over a period of 45 minutes, was first observed around 1:20 AM EST and appeared to be centered on Lumen nodes located in New York, NY. Around five minutes into the outage, a number of Lumen nodes exhibiting outage conditions in New York, NY, appeared to reduce. This drop in the number of nodes exhibiting outage conditions appeared to coincide with a decrease in the number of impacted downstream partners, and customers. The outage was cleared around 7:05 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. On January 23, AT&T, U.S.-based telecommunications company, experienced an outage on its network that impacted AT&T customers and partners across the U.S. The outage, lasting a total of 13 minutes over a 20-minute period, was first observed around 10:35 AM EST and appeared to center on AT&T nodes located in Dallas, TX. Around 15 minutes after first being observed, the number of nodes exhibiting outage conditions located in Dallas, TX, appeared to reduce. This decrease in nodes exhibiting outage conditions appeared to coincide with a drop in the number of impacted partners and customers. The outage was cleared at around 10:35 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. Internet report for Jan. 13-19 ThousandEyes reported 328 global network outage events across ISPs, cloud service provider networks, collaboration app networks and edge networks (including DNS, content delivery networks, and security as a service) during the week of Jan. 13-19. Thats up 11% from 296 outages the week prior. Specific to the U.S., there were 157 outages, which up 34% from 117 outages the week prior. Heres a breakdown by category: ISP outages: Globally, total ISP outages increased slightly from 182 to 186 outages, a 2% increase compared to the week prior. In the U.S., ISP outages increased from 40 to 53, a 33% increase. Public cloud network outages: Globally, cloud provider network outages increased from 72 to 76 outages. In the U.S., cloud provider network outages increased from 54 to 69 outages. Collaboration app network outages: Globally, and in the U.S., collaboration application network outages dropped from two outages to one. Two notable outages On January 15, Lumen, a U.S. based Tier 1 carrier (previously known as CenturyLink), experienced an outage that affected customers and downstream partners across multiple regions including the U.S., Hong Kong, Germany, Canada, the U.K., Chile, Colombia, Austria, India, Australia, the Netherlands, Spain, France, Singapore, Japan, South Africa, Nigeria, China, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Peru, Norway, Argentina, Turkey, Hungary, Ireland, New Zealand, Egypt, the Philippines, Italy, Sweden, Bulgaria, Estonia, Romania, and Mexico. The outage, lasting a total of one hour and 5 minutes over a nearly three-hour period, was first observed around 5:02 AM EST and appeared to initially be centered on Lumen nodes located in Dallas, TX. Around one hour after appearing to clear, nodes located in Dallas, TX, began exhibiting outage conditions again, this time joined by Lumen nodes located in San Jose, CA, Washington, D.C., Chicago. IL, New York, NY, London, England, Los Angeles, CA, San Francisco, CA, Sacramento, CA, Fresno, CA, Seattle, WA, Santa Clara, CA, and Colorado Springs, CO, in exhibiting outage conditions. This increase in the number and location of nodes exhibiting outage conditions appeared to coincide with the peak in terms of the number of regions and downstream partners, and customers impacted. The outage was cleared around 7:25 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. On January 16, Hurricane Electric, a network transit provider headquartered in Fremont, CA, experienced an outage that impacted customers and downstream partners across multiple regions, including the U.S., Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, the U.K., Canada, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Germany. The outage, lasting 22 minutes, was first observed around 2:28 AM EST and initially appeared to center on Hurricane Electric nodes located in Chicago, IL. Five minutes into the outage, the nodes located in Chicago, IL, were joined by Hurricane Electric nodes located in Portland, OR, Seattle, WA, and Ashburn, VA, in exhibiting outage conditions. This coincided with an increase in the number of downstream partners and countries impacted. Around 12 minutes into the outage, all nodes, except those located in Chicago, IL, appeared to clear. The outage was cleared at around 2:55 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. Internet report for Jan. 6-12 ThousandEyes reported 296 global network outage events across ISPs, cloud service provider networks, collaboration app networks and edge networks (including DNS, content delivery networks, and security as a service) during the week of Jan. 6. Thats double the number of outages the week prior (148). Specific to the U.S., there were 117 outages, which up 50% from 78 outages the week prior. Heres a breakdown by category: ISP outages: Globally, total ISP outages increased from 80 to 182 outages, a 127% increase compared to the week prior. In the U.S., ISP outages increased from 25 to 40, a 60% increase. Public cloud network outages: Globally, cloud provider network outages increased from 34 to 72 outages. In the U.S., cloud provider network outages increased from 31 to 54 outages. Collaboration app network outages: Globally, and in the U.S., there were two collaboration application network outages, up from one a week earlier. Two notable outages On January 8, Cogent Communications, a multinational transit provider based in the U.S., experienced an outage that impacted multiple downstream providers and customers across various regions, including the U.S., India, Canada, Mexico, Singapore, South Africa, Indonesia, Sweden, the U.K., Honduras, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Poland, the Netherlands, Australia, the Philippines, Greece, Germany, Argentina, New Zealand, France, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Colombia. The outage lasted a total of one hour and nine minutes, distributed across a series of occurrences over a period of three hours and 50 minutes. The first occurrence of the outage was observed around 6:00 AM EST and initially seemed to be centered on Cogent nodes located in Los Angeles, CA. Around three hours and 20 minutes after first being observed, nodes in Los Angeles, CA, began exhibiting outage conditions again, this time accompanied by nodes in Chicago, IL, El Paso, TX, and San Jose, CA. This increase in nodes experiencing outages appeared to coincide with a rise in the number of affected downstream customers, partners, and regions. Five minutes later, the nodes located in Chicago, IL, and El Paso, TX, appeared to clear, leaving only the nodes in Los Angeles, CA, and San Jose, CA, exhibiting outage conditions. The outage was cleared around 9:50 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. On January 10, Lumen, a U.S. based Tier 1 carrier (previously known as CenturyLink), experienced an outage that affected customers and downstream partners across multiple regions including Switzerland, South Africa, Egypt, the U.K., the U.S., Spain, Portugal, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, France, Hong Kong, and Italy The outage, lasting a total of 19 minutes, was first observed around 9:05 PM EST and appeared to be centered on Lumen nodes located in London, England, and Washington, D.C. Around twenty-five minutes from when the outage was first observed, the nodes located in London, England, appeared to clear, leaving only Lumen nodes located in Washington, D.C. exhibiting outage conditions. This drop in the number of nodes and locations exhibiting outage conditions appeared to coincide with a decrease in the number of impacted downstream partners, and customers. The outage was cleared around 9:55 PM CET. Click here for an interactive view. Internet report for Dec. 30, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 ThousandEyes reported 148 global network outage events across ISPs, cloud service provider networks, collaboration app networks and edge networks (including DNS, content delivery networks, and security as a service) during the week of Dec. 30, 2024. Thats up 95% from 76 outages the week prior. Specific to the U.S., there were 78 outages, which up nearly threefold from 28 outages the week prior. Heres a breakdown by category: ISP outages: Globally, total ISP outages increased from 46 to 80 outages, a 74% increase compared to the week prior. In the U.S., ISP outages increased from 10 to 25, a 150% increase. Public cloud network outages: Globally, cloud provider network outages increased from 18 to 34 outages. In the U.S., cloud provider network outages increased from 13 to 31 outages. Collaboration app network outages: There was one collaboration application network outage globally and in the U.S., which is an increase from zero in the previous week. Two notable outages On December 30, Neustar, a U.S. based technology service provider headquartered in Sterling, VA, experienced an outage that impacted multiple downstream providers, as well as Neustar customers within multiple regions, including the U.S., Mexico, Taiwan, Singapore, Canada, the U.K., Spain, Romania, Germany, Luxembourg, France, Costa Rica, Ireland, Japan, India, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. The outage, lasting a total of one hour and 40 minutes, was first observed around 2:00 PM EST and appeared to initially center on Neustar nodes located in Los Angeles, CA, and Washington, D.C. Around 10 minutes into the outage, nodes located in Washington, D.C., were replaced by nodes located in Ashburn, VA, in exhibiting outage conditions. Around 10 minutes later, nodes located in Virginia, VA, and Los Angeles, CA, appeared to clear and were replaced by nodes located in Dallas, TX and San Jose, CA, in exhibiting outage conditions. Five minutes later, these nodes were replaced by nodes located in London, England, Ashburn, VA, New York, NY, and Washington, D.C. A further five minutes later, these nodes were joined by nodes located in Dallas, TX, in exhibiting outage conditions. This increase in nodes exhibiting outage conditions also appeared to coincide with an increase in the number of downstream partners and regions impacted. The outage was cleared around 3:40 PM EST. Click here for an interactive view. On January 4, AT&T experienced an outage on their network that impacted AT&T customers and partners across multiple regions including the U.S., Ireland, the Philippines, the U.K., France, and Canada. The outage, lasting around 23 minutes, was first observed around 3:35 AM EST, appearing to initially center on AT&T nodes located in Phoenix, AZ, Los Angeles, CA, San Jose, CA, and New York, NY. Around ten minutes into the outage, nodes located in Phoenix, AZ, and San Jose, CA, appeared to clear, leaving just nodes located in Los Angeles, CA, and New York, NY, exhibiting outage conditions. This decrease in nodes exhibiting outage conditions appeared to coincide with a drop in the number of impacted partners and customers. The outage was cleared at around 4:00 AM EST. Click here for an interactive view. Special Operations Forces (SOF) destroyed a group of 13 DPRK servicemen in Kursk region, the press service of the SOF reported. "During the performance of special actions, SOF soldiers killed five DPRK soldiers in small arms combat and eight more with the help of drones," the SOF reported pn Telegram on Tuesday. It is reported that after the battle, SOF operators examined the bodies of the DPRK servicemen and their personal documents. One of them had a machine gun with a zoom sight, a Chinese-Russian radio station Azart and a drone detector, as well as an ID card that differs from a regular military ID. The items found may indicate that he belonged to the officer corps. Among other things, the North Korean soldier had with him a letter of appeal to the party. Sybiha: We in contact to clearly define time frame for General Kellogg's visit to Ukraine Photo: MFA of Ukraine The visit of the U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia in the future administration of newly elected President Donald Trump, retired General Keith Kellogg, will take place "in due time," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha is confident. "For us, the meeting and visits of General Kellogg are extremely important. And I am sure that this meeting will take place in due time. We are in contact to clearly define the time frame for its holding, to fill this meeting with maximum content," Sybiha said at a press conference with his Icelandic counterpart orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir in Kyiv. The Foreign Minister also emphasized that Ukraine is glad to "all visits of American friends." "This is the first position. The second is that we very much hope that after the inauguration, the first visits of the heads, the leaders of the already appointed new administration will take place in Ukraine," Sybiha said. Earlier, Reuters, citing four sources from Trumps entourage, reported that General Keith Kellogg had postponed his familiarization trip to Kyiv, which had been planned earlier. Doctors around the world may soon have access to a new tool that could better predict whether individual cancer patients will benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors - a type of immunotherapy - using only routine blood tests and clinical data. The artificial intelligencebased model, dubbed SCORPIO, was developed by a team of researchers from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) and the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai. The model is not only cheaper and more accessible, it's significantly better at predicting outcomes than the two current biomarkers approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to findings published January 6 in Nature Medicine. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a very powerful tool against cancer, but they don't yet work for most patients. These drugs are expensive, and they can come with serious side effects." Luc Morris, MD, study co-senior author, surgeon and research lab director at MSK So the key is patient selection - matching the drugs with patients who are most likely to benefit, Dr. Morris says. "There are some existing tools that predict whether tumors will respond to these drugs, but they tend to rely on advanced genomic testing that is not widely available around the world," he adds. "We wanted to develop a model that can help guide treatment decisions using widely available data, such as routine blood tests." Collaborating to make checkpoint inhibitor therapy work for more cancer patients Checkpoint inhibitors target the immune system rather than the cancer itself. These drugs work by taking the brakes off immune cells, allowing them to better fight cancer. MSK clinicians and scientists played a key role in bringing the new class of drugs to patients. The new study was jointly overseen by Dr. Morris and Diego Chowell, PhD, an Assistant Professor of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Oncological Sciences, and Artificial Intelligence and Human Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and a former postdoctoral fellow at MSK. Q&A with Dr. Morris We spoke with Dr. Morris about the team's prediction model and next steps for the research: Why did you develop this new model to predict checkpoint inhibitor response? It was clear there was room for improvement. There are currently two FDA-approved biomarkers for predicting response to checkpoint inhibitors: tumor mutational burden (the number of mutations in a tumor) and PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (evaluating the expression of the programmed death-ligand 1 protein in tumor samples). Both require samples of the tumor to be collected. Meanwhile, genomic testing to assess mutations is expensive and not available everywhere, and there is a lot of variability evaluating PD-L1 expression. Instead, our model relies on readily available clinical data, including routine blood tests performed in clinics around the world - the complete blood count and the comprehensive metabolic profile. And we found that our model outperforms the currently used tests in the clinic. The simplicity and affordability of this new approach could help ensure more equitable access to care while also reducing costs and helping ensure patients receive treatments most likely to benefit them individually - whether that ends up being a checkpoint inhibitor or some other type of therapy. How was the model developed? SCORPIO was initially developed by our team, by collecting data from MSK patients, because of the length and depth of experience oncologists here have treating patients with these drugs. Collaborating with the team at Mount Sinai, we used a type of artificial intelligence called 'ensemble machine learning,' which combines several tools to look for patterns in clinical data from blood tests and treatment outcomes. The model was developed using a rich resource of retrospective data from more than 2,000 patients from MSK who had been treated with checkpoint inhibitors, representing 17 different types of cancer. The model was then tested using data from 2,100 additional MSK patients to verify that it was able to predict outcomes with high accuracy. Next, we applied the model to nearly 4,500 patients treated with checkpoint inhibitors in 10 different phase 3 clinical trials from around the world. Further validation was done with additional data from nearly 1,200 patients treated at Mount Sinai. In total, the study includes nearly 10,000 patients across 21 different cancer types - representing the largest dataset in cancer immunotherapy to date. We did this extensive testing and validation because our goal was not just to develop a predictive model, but to develop one that would be widely applicable to patients and physicians in different locations. What are the next steps? We plan to collaborate with hospitals and cancer centers around the world to test the model with additional data from a wider variety of clinical settings. The feedback we receive will help us to continue to optimize the model. Additionally, work is underway to develop an interface that is readily accessible by clinicians, regardless of where they're located. Additional authors, funding, and disclosures The study represents the work of 37 authors. The research was led by co-first authors Seong-Keun Yoo, PhD, and Byuri Angela Cho, PhD, research fellows in the Chowell Lab; Conall Fitzgerald , MD, a research fellow in the Morris Lab who is now a consultant head and neck surgeon at St James's Hospital and Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; and Bailey G. Fitzgerald, MD, a medical oncology fellow at Mount Sinai. Please refer to the study for the full list. This research was supported in part by the National Institutes of Health (R01 DE027738, R01 CA283469, U01CA282114, P30 CA008748, P30 CA196521), the Department of Defense, the Geoffrey Beene Cancer Research Center at MSK, Cycle for Survival, the Jayme and Peter Flowers Fund, the Sebastian Nativo Fund, and the Alexander and Alexandrine Sinsheimer Foundation. Please refer to the study for a full list of funders. Several of the authors have filed a provisional patent application for using routine blood tests and clinical variables to predict cancer immunotherapy response. Several are also co-inventors on a patent by MSK for using tumor mutational burden to predict immunotherapy response, licensed to Personal Genome Diagnostics. Another group are co-inventors on a patent filed jointly by Cleveland Clinic and MSK for a multimodal machine learning model to predict immunotherapy response, licensed to Tempus. A number of the authors also report consulting work for pharmaceutical companies, unrelated to the current research. With decades of research culminating in innovative vaccine candidates, scientists are closer than ever to combating a virus that causes birth defects and transplant complications worldwide. Research: A vaccine against cytomegalovirus: how close are we? Image Credit: Kateryna Kon / Shutterstock In a recent review published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers examined the long-standing efforts to develop a vaccine for human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a significant cause of birth defects and complications in organ transplantation. By evaluating current vaccine candidates and strategies, the review highlighted the progress and challenges in achieving effective prevention of congenital HCMV infections. The review also emphasized the broader public health impact of HCMV-related conditions, including associations with certain adult-onset diseases. Background Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is part of the herpesvirus family and is unique due to its large genome, which encodes over 200 proteins, making it one of the most complex viruses known. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a virus that causes congenital infections and serious health complications, especially in immunosuppressed individuals. Transmission from mother to fetus can lead to neurodevelopmental delays, hearing loss, and other severe disabilities. Moreover, despite substantial advances in antiviral therapies, their use in treating HCMV infections is limited by factors such as toxicity and resistance, leaving vaccination as a critical but unmet need. While natural immunity provides partial protection, it is imperfect and does not prevent reinfections. Studies have shown that pre-conception maternal immunity can reduce but not eliminate vertical transmission, with risks persisting for both primary and recurrent infections. Similarly, transplant recipients face elevated risks of HCMV reactivation, graft failure, and opportunistic infections, further emphasizing the necessity for vaccination in this population. HCMV Vaccine Development The review explored the ongoing efforts to develop effective HCMV vaccines, focusing on multiple vaccine platforms and trial designs. The authors analyzed the development of subunit, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA), viral vector, and live-attenuated HCMV vaccines. The development of vaccines against HCMV has spanned decades, with several promising candidates undergoing clinical trials. Early research concentrated on live-attenuated vaccines, such as the Towne and Toledo strains of the virus, which provided partial protection but did not significantly reduce virus acquisition. The study reported that subsequent subunit vaccines targeted glycoprotein B, a key viral entry protein. These vaccines demonstrated modest efficacy, with phase II trials showing approximately 50% protection in specific populations, such as seronegative individuals and transplant recipients. The virus has a remarkable ability to establish lifelong latency, primarily in the salivary glands, and can reactivate under conditions of immune suppression, complicating treatment and prevention efforts. Recent innovations in mRNA technology have significantly advanced vaccine development, particularly Moderna's mRNA-1647. This candidate encodes glycoprotein B and the pentameric complexkey viral structures for cell infectionand has reached phase III clinical trials. These mRNA-based vaccines aim to elicit strong neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibody responses, including mechanisms like antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Additionally, virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines, such as those developed by VBI Vaccines Inc., also incorporate glycoprotein B and other antigens to stimulate broader immune responses. Another approach discussed in the review involved the use of viral vectors, such as the Triplex vaccine, which leverages modified vaccinia Ankara to express HCMV proteins. This candidate vaccine showed promise in transplant recipients by reducing viremia and disease severity. Other innovations included disabled infectious single-cycle (DISC) vaccines, such as V160, developed by Merck. These vaccines present viral antigens without replicating and are currently being tested in women of childbearing age. The review underscored that these diverse vaccine platforms not only provide insights into the design of effective immunogens but also highlight the importance of integrating multiple immune mechanisms, including T-cell responses and innate immunity, to achieve comprehensive protection. Schematic of the types of immunity, target population, and endpoints for efficacy of a CMV vaccine. Challenges and Future Directions Developing an effective HCMV vaccine has presented substantial hurdles, including the virus's complex biology, immune evasion mechanisms, and diverse clinical impacts. A significant challenge has been the incomplete immunity provided by natural infection, which complicates the development of vaccines that can prevent reinfections or congenital transmission. Transmission routes for CMV are diverse, including bodily fluids such as saliva, urine, and genital secretions, as well as congenital transmission from mother to fetus. The high variability of HCMV strains necessitates designing vaccines that target conserved viral components while addressing strain-specific differences. In addition to focusing on glycoprotein B and the pentameric complex, emerging research highlights the need to optimize immune responses, such as antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP). Furthermore, the researchers believe that clinical trials must also address the complexities of demonstrating efficacy. Unlike traditional vaccines, the endpoints for HCMV must include preventing congenital infections and reducing complications in transplant recipients. Moreover, the vaccine's safety profile is especially crucial for immunocompromised populations. The review also highlighted equity considerations, noting that congenital HCMV disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, where seroprevalence is higher. Developing vaccines tailored to these populations could have a transformative global health impact. Emerging technologies, such as mRNA platforms and structure-based vaccine design, offer new opportunities to overcome these challenges. Strategies that are currently under investigation include incorporating multiple antigens, enhancing T-cell responses, and targeting viral latency. Addressing gaps in knowledge, such as the role of non-neutralizing antibodies and the impact of maternal immunity, is also essential for optimizing vaccine candidates. Conclusions Overall, the review suggested that the future of HCMV vaccine development lies in multifaceted approaches that integrate innovative platforms, comprehensive immune assessments, and tailored trial designs. Advancing vaccine candidates through accelerated regulatory pathways and fostering collaborations across global stakeholders are critical steps toward addressing this urgent public health need. Joey Ballard is an internal medicine resident at the University of Illinois-Chicago. He wrote to "An Arm and a Leg" about a resolution the American Medical Association recently adopted calling on hospitals to do more to make sure patients who qualify for charity care get it. And that legislators and regulators make sure that's happening. Ballard helped write that resolution. He told "An Arm and a Leg" host Dan Weissmann that he first heard about charity care after listening to an episode of the podcast. Ballard spoke with Weissmann about organizing as a medical student, bringing the resolution to the AMA, and the optimism he feels about the fight for charity care at the hospital where he works. Dan Weissmann @danweissmann ost and producer of "An Arm and a Leg." Previously, Dan was a staff reporter for Marketplace and Chicago's WBEZ. His work also appears on All Things Considered, Marketplace, the BBC, 99 Percent Invisible, and Reveal, from the Center for Investigative Reporting. Credits Emily Pisacreta Producer Adam Raymonda Audio wizard Ellen Weiss Editor "An Arm and a Leg" is a co-production of KFF Health News and Public Road Productions. On October 2nd (Wednesday), Korea University College of Medicine (Dean: Pyun Sung-Bom) hosted a forum titled "Advancing Healthcare through Innovations in Data and AI in Clinical Informatics and Natural Language Processing" in the 6th-floor lecture hall of the First Medical Building. As part of Korea University's 120th-anniversary celebration, this annual joint forum with Yale University has been held since 2023. This year's forum marks the third event, following themes of Korean Wave and Sustainability. Notably, KU College of Medicine and Yale University recently solidified a partnership to foster global medical scientists. Starting with the 2025 academic year, KUCM graduates will have the opportunity to enroll in Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) Program and Investigative Medicine Program (IMP) at Yale School of Medicine. Held at a time when the utilization of big data and AI in healthcare is rapidly expanding, the forum garnered significant attention. Reflecting this interest, the event was filled to capacity with medical students, graduate students, and researchers. The forum brought together leading experts from Yale University, known for their world-class research in medical AI and advanced bio-health technologies, and researchers from Korea University. It served as a vital platform for sharing the latest research trends and fostering ongoing academic exchange. The symposium comprised two sessions, offering an in-depth exploration of various aspects of medical AI. The first session focused on clinical informatics and health data systems. Discussions covered topics such as the future of medical AI education and research, innovative applications of digital biomarkers in mental health, and the role of informatics in learning health systems. The session began with a keynote address by Professor Lucila Ohno-Machado from Yale School of Medicine, titled "AI and Medical Informatics: Perspectives on Education and Research". Her talk delved into methods for analyzing and utilizing medical data with AI, as well as applications in medical education. The second session featured in-depth discussions on the application of AI and natural language processing (NLP) in medicine. Topics included privacy challenges in genomic medicine, innovative approaches to drug discovery leveraging AI, and the potential use of LLMs in biomedical research. Dean Pyun stated, "This forum successfully highlighted the profound impact of AI and data-driven technologies on healthcare systems and patient care. Moving forward, we aim to host regular symposia with Yale University to share cutting-edge research and technology trends, accelerate medical innovation through AI, and continuously explore new possibilities for improving patient care." On October 2nd (Wednesday), Korea University College of Medicine (Dean: Pyun Sung-Bom) hosted a forum titled "Advancing Healthcare through Innovations in Data and AI in Clinical Informatics and Natural Language Processing" in the 6th-floor lecture hall of the First Medical Building. As part of Korea University's 120th-anniversary celebration, this annual joint forum with Yale University has been held since 2023. This year's forum marks the third event, following themes of Korean Wave and Sustainability. Notably, KU College of Medicine and Yale University recently solidified a partnership to foster global medical scientists. Starting with the 2025 academic year, KUCM graduates will have the opportunity to enroll in Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS) Program and Investigative Medicine Program (IMP) at Yale School of Medicine. Held at a time when the utilization of big data and AI in healthcare is rapidly expanding, the forum garnered significant attention. Reflecting this interest, the event was filled to capacity with medical students, graduate students, and researchers. The forum brought together leading experts from Yale University, known for their world-class research in medical AI and advanced bio-health technologies, and researchers from Korea University. It served as a vital platform for sharing the latest research trends and fostering ongoing academic exchange. The symposium comprised two sessions, offering an in-depth exploration of various aspects of medical AI. The first session focused on clinical informatics and health data systems. Discussions covered topics such as the future of medical AI education and research, innovative applications of digital biomarkers in mental health, and the role of informatics in learning health systems. The session began with a keynote address by Professor Lucila Ohno-Machado from Yale School of Medicine, titled "AI and Medical Informatics: Perspectives on Education and Research". Her talk delved into methods for analyzing and utilizing medical data with AI, as well as applications in medical education. The second session featured in-depth discussions on the application of AI and natural language processing (NLP) in medicine. Topics included privacy challenges in genomic medicine, innovative approaches to drug discovery leveraging AI, and the potential use of LLMs in biomedical research. Study highlights the prevalence of T2-low and T17-high asthma endotypes among racially and ethnically minoritized youths, paving the way for precision medicine approaches. Study: Transcriptomic Profiles in Nasal EpitheliumandAsthmaEndotypes in Youth. Image Credit: New Africa/Shutterstock.com In a recent study published in the JAMA, a group of researchers identified asthma endotypes in youths aged 6 to 20 years by analyzing transcriptomic profiles in nasal epithelium and their association with clinical and immunological characteristics. Background Asthma, the most common chronic respiratory illness in children, disproportionately affects racially and ethnically minoritized groups in the United States, with Puerto Rican and non-Hispanic Black youths experiencing higher rates of emergency department visits compared to non-Hispanic White youths. While T helper 2 (T2)-high asthma, characterized by eosinophilic inflammation and elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13, has been extensively studied and treated with targeted therapies, less is known about T2-low endotypes, including T17-high asthma and paucigranulocytic asthma. These non-T2-high endotypes are poorly understood, particularly in underserved youth populations. Further research is essential to clarify their molecular mechanisms and improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. About the studies The study leverages data from three key investigations to analyze asthma endotypes in diverse youth populations using nasal RNA profiles. Stress and Treatment Response in Puerto Rican and African American Children with Asthma (STAR): Conducted between 2018 and 2022, this study examined six-week responses to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in youths aged 8-20 years from Puerto Rico and Pittsburgh. Participants met criteria including physician-diagnosed mild-to-moderate persistent asthma, at least three Puerto Rican or African American grandparents, no recent corticosteroid use or upper respiratory infections (URIs), and no significant smoking history. They provided demographic and respiratory health data, underwent spirometry and blood testing (IgE and eosinophil counts), and nasal RNA sequencing prior to ICS treatment. Epigenetic Variation and Childhood Asthma in Puerto Ricans (EVA-PR): This study, conducted from 2014 to 2017, focused on Puerto Rican youths aged 9-20 years with asthma. Participants underwent spirometry, blood tests, and nasal sampling for gene expression analysis, using methods similar to STAR. Vitamin D Kids Asthma (VDKA): Conducted from 2016 to 2019, this 48-week randomized trial investigated the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation in children aged 6-16 years with severe asthma. An ancillary component included nasal sampling for transcriptomic analysis. All three studies received ethical approval and contributed data on nasal RNA profiles, enabling the identification of T2 and T17 asthma endotypes across diverse populations of children and adolescents. Study results This analysis examined 459 participants with asthma from three studies: STAR (n = 156), EVA-PR (n = 237), and VDKA (n = 66), with demographic and clinical characteristics varying across cohorts. EVA-PR included exclusively Puerto Rican participants, while STAR and VDKA primarily involved African American or non-Hispanic Black participants. The mean age differed, with VDKA participants being the youngest (10.3 years), followed by STAR (14.2 years) and EVA-PR (15.4 years). Overweight or obesity was prevalent, affecting between 45.6% and 65.4% of participants, and most individuals had Medicaid or medical assistance, with 1% to 4% uninsured. K-means clustering of nasal transcriptomic profiles identified three asthma endotypes consistently across cohorts: T2-high (22.7%29.1%), T17-high (35.0%47.0%), and T2-low/T17-low (30.3%37.8%). T2-high participants exhibited higher levels of total IgE, eosinophils, and allergen sensitization compared to T2-low profiles, although 50% to 73.3% of T2-low participants also displayed allergen-specific IgE positivity. Clinical findings varied across cohorts. In STAR, T2-high participants were more likely to have allergic rhinitis, higher household incomes, and asthma-related emergency visits. T17-high participants were generally younger, while obesity was associated with T2-low profiles in STAR and EVA-PR but linked to T2-high profiles in VDKA. Lung function measures did not significantly differ between endotypes. Biomarker analysis in STAR established cutoff values for identifying T2-high profiles: total IgE (417.5 IU/mL), eosinophils (210.4 cells/L), and FeNO (32.5 parts per billion). A decision tree model integrating these biomarkers enhanced predictive accuracy. Differential gene expression analysis identified 3,516 genes associated with T2-high profiles, highlighting IL-13 signaling and 2,494 genes for T17-high profiles, emphasizing cytokine and interferon- pathways. Key genes included FPR1, TREM1, and IL23A, while gene coexpression networks provided further insights into molecular mechanisms unique to each endotype. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates the clinical and molecular diversity of asthma endotypes and underscores the value of personalized approaches in asthma treatment and management. Conclusions This study found that T2-low asthma endotypes, including T17-high and T2-low/T17-low profiles, were more common than T2-high asthma among racially and ethnically minoritized youths. Detailed profiling showed that single biomarkers, such as IgE and eosinophils, were not highly accurate for identifying T2-high asthma. However, a decision tree model using IgE (418 IU/mL) and FeNO (28 ppb) improved prediction accuracy. Unlike earlier research, this analysis excluded participants with recent corticosteroid use, reducing confounding factors. Nasal transcriptomic analysis revealed novel therapeutic targets for T17-high asthma, including FPR1, TREM1, and IL23A. These findings suggest the potential for endotype-specific treatments, advancing precision medicine in asthma care. The University of Plymouth and International Osteopathic Education (IOE) have formed a new partnership that will offer first-class training to aspiring osteopaths from across the world. The organisations both renowned internationally for quality healthcare training have developed a rigorous and comprehensive Master of Osteopathic Medicine (MOstM) programme. Those enrolling on the programme, which is being validated and awarded by the University of Plymouth, will engage in five years of flexible study. They will benefit from clinical teaching in the IOE educational clinic in Bordeaux, France, as well as in international partner clinics, medical centres and research laboratories, providing an unrivalled and comprehensive training programme. Those graduating from the programme will be able to integrate into the medical world through an interdisciplinary practice, and address all sectors of health: Paediatrics, Neurology, Rheumatology, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics, Gastroenterology, Otolaryngology, Orthodontics, and Clinical Research. Professor Bob Fern, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health at the University of Plymouth, said: "As a significant provider of healthcare training, we are always looking for ways to expand our expertise. This new venture with International Osteopathic Education complements our existing academic programmes, and enables us to expand our health offering both geographically and into new areas of specialisation. I am excited to see this new partnership allowing students from across Europe and beyond to achieve a high-quality education." Dr Vincent Staf, Head of Studies at International Osteopathic Education in France, said: "The Master of Osteopathic Medicine program, developed by the University of Plymouth and International Osteopathic Education, is the result of more than 20 years of experience in osteopathic training in France, Europe, and beyond. This integrated University Master's degree is unique in both its design and its educational engineering. It offers students specialized expertise in clinical learning and in the research of etiological factors of functional and systemic pathologies. "IOE and the University of Plymouth worked for more than two years to develop this project, enabling students passionate about Osteopathy to join our institutions, regardless of their country or continent. We are very proud to participate in this unprecedented evolution of osteopathy in an internationally recognized university setting." The MOstM is an Integrated Masters programme features a training model and teaching units that meet the international standards for Osteopathy training. Although it doesn't result in specific registration, the qualification is designed to enable graduates to treat all types of conditions, and it is envisaged they will be able apply to a regulator and then choose from a choice of locations where they can work. Students will learn the fundamentals of human health, with the course covering elements of physiology, anatomy, biomechanics and clinical examinations. They will also develop detailed understanding of osteopathic tests, techniques and treatments and how to use them correctly in the clinical setting. Taken together, this will enable them to become responsible primary care practitioners, able to manage a variety of pathologies thanks to their expertise and clinical skills. For more information about the Master of Osteopathic Medicine (MOstM) programme, and to find out how to apply, visit https://www.international-osteopathic-education.com/. Recently, the Anhui Provincial Government Office released the "Action Plan for Enhancing Comprehensive Transportation Development Levels" (hereinafter referred to as the "Plan"). By 2027, the province aims to operate over 20 all-cargo flight routes, establish 20 general airports, and add more than 30 ten-thousand-ton berths and over 100 thousand-ton berths. The high-speed railway is expected to reach 3,600 kilometers, covering over 80% of counties, while rural road development will continue to rank among the top in the nation. Building Hefei as a Regional Aviation Hub According to the Plan, Anhui will implement the Hefei International Hub Construction Project, advancing the development of Hefei's international air cargo distribution center and planning the Hefei International Port Area to enhance the international service capabilities of Hefei hub. By 2027, the goal is to establish an airport network with one hub, eight branches, and multiple points" operate over 20 all-cargo flight routes, and achieve an airport passenger and cargo capacity of 54 million passengers and 420,000 tons per year, respectively, with 20 general airports. The province plans to advance a new round of port and shipping resource integration, fostering cooperation between provincial port enterprises and those in the Yangtze River Delta. By 2027, the target is to add over 30 ten-thousand-ton berths and over 100 thousand-ton berths, with port container throughput capacity reaching 3.2 million TEUs per year. Connecting National Expressways The province will implement the "4 Axes, 5 Corridors, 6 Channels" construction project, enhancing the functionality of the four main axes: Beijing-Hong Kong-Macau, Wuhan-Hefei-Nanjing, along the Yangtze River, and Zhengzhou-Hefei-Hangzhou. The focus will be on developing regional projects in Hefei, Nanjing, and the Great Yellow Mountain area. By 2027, the high-speed railway will reach 3,600 kilometers in Anhui, covering over 80% of counties. Promoting Yangtze River Delta Transportation Integration Anhui will strengthen cooperation between Anhui and Shanghai airports, actively aligning with Shanghai's "Five Centers" initiative. The province will carry out integrated transportation construction in the Yangtze River Delta, building the Yangtze River Delta on the track and the Yangtze River Delta on the waterway. Establishing a New Pattern of Urban-Rural Transportation Integration The province will implement comprehensive transportation hub construction projects, including the Hefei Airport Comprehensive Transportation Center. Efforts will be made to become a pilot for supplementing and strengthening the national comprehensive freight hub chain. Anhui aims to participate deeply in high-quality Belt and Road Initiative development, creating a central hub for the China-Europe Railway Express in Hefei and advancing dedicated railway lines to key ports, logistics parks, and large factories. By 2027, dedicated railway lines will fully reach riverside ports, with annual container rail-water intermodal transport volume increasing by over 15%. Source: Hefei Daily Since the launch of the Winter eSupport program, more than 11 million applications have already been submitted by citizens, said Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal. "This year, we will also continue to implement the Winter eSupport initiative. We already have more than 11 million applications for the payment of UAH 1,000 under the Winter eSupport program. More than 8 million Ukrainians have already received this support," Shmyhal said at a government meeting on Tuesday. The prime minister also recalled that in January, the Teacher's Supplement will be paid, within the framework of which each teacher will receive an additional UAH 1,000 "in hand" every month, and from September, this amount will be UAH 2,000. "Also this month, another Winter eSupport program will be launched - accepting applications for a subsidy for renting housing for internally displaced persons. This will help thousands of our citizens in this difficult time," he added. Stocks To Watch: Mobikwik, BPCL, Coal India, Power Grid, Airtel, NESCO, And Others Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 08:20 IST Stocks to watch: Shares of firms like Mobikwik, BPCL, Coal India, Power Grid, Airtel, NESCO, and others will be in focus on Tuesday's trade Stocks to watch (Representative/PTI File) Stocks To Watch On January 7: Markets saw a sharp downturn, wiping out over 1.5% of recent gains. In todays session, stocks of Mobikwik, BPCL, RIL, Bharti Airtel, Coal India, and others are likely to draw attention due to recent developments. Earnings Reports Today: Mobikwik, GM Breweries, Krishna Ventures, Leel Electricals, UH Zaveri, VR Woodart, and others will announce their quarterly results on January 7. related stories Adani Power: The Supreme Court has agreed to review Adani Powers appeal against the Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commissions rejection of a 2006 power purchase agreement (PPA) between the former Udupi Power Corporation and a Punjab state discom. RIL: Reliance Consumer Products (RCPL) has entered the rehydration market with the launch of RasKik Gluco Energy. Nuvoco Vistas Corp: Nuvoco Vistas Corp, part of the Nirma Group, announced that it has emerged as the successful applicant for Vadraj Cement in a corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP). The company described it as a value-buy" but did not disclose the transaction value. Adani Enterprises: Adani Petrochemicals, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises, completed the incorporation of Valor Petrochemicals Limited (VPL), a 50-50 joint venture with Thailands Indorama Resources Limited, on January 4. Macrotech Developers: Macrotech Developers (Lodha) reported its highest-ever quarterly pre-sales of Rs 4,510 crore in Q3FY25, marking a 32% year-on-year growth. Coal India: Coal India Limited has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IREL (India) Limited to collaborate on the development of critical minerals. NMDC/KIOCL: Reports suggest that the Indian steel ministry is considering a merger between state-run KIOCL and NMDC. Post-merger, NMDC plans to export iron ore pellets from KIOCL. BPCL: State-owned refiner BPCL has given in-principle approval for an IPO of Maharashtra Natural Gas Ltd (MNGL), a joint venture with GAIL and Indraprastha Gas (IGL). ICICI Securities: ICICI Securities has resolved a matter with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) by paying a Rs 40.2 lakh penalty for alleged misuse of terminals and monitoring lapses concerning its authorized persons. Airtel/Vodafone Idea (Vi): Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi) have sold their entire stake in Wi-Fi infrastructure firm Firefly Networks to iBus Network and Infrastructure for Rs 9 crore, according to regulatory filings. Arkade Developers: Arkade Developers will redevelop three residential projects in Mumbai, expecting to generate Rs 2,150 crore in revenue. The projects are located in key micro-markets of Mumbais western suburbs. Info Edge: The parent company of Naukri.com reported a 15.8% increase in standalone billings, reaching Rs 668.3 crore, up from Rs 576.9 crore last year. Its recruitment solutions business saw a 15.2% growth, totaling Rs 494 crore compared to Rs 428.9 crore. NESCO: NESCO has been declared the highest bidder by the National Highways Logistics Management for the development, operation, and maintenance of Wayside Amenities across three sites in the South Zone of the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway Corridor (Phase II). The estimated development cost is Rs 75 crore per site, with projected annualized revenue of Rs 350 crore from the fourth year of operations. Ashoka Buildcon: Ashoka Bowaichandi Guskara Road, an arm of Ashoka Buildcon, has signed a concession agreement with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for the development of a 4-lane Economic Corridor in West Bengal under the Hybrid Annuity Mode. The project cost is Rs 1,391 crore. Power Grid Corporation: Power Grid Corporation has successfully bid for two projects to develop the interstate transmission system on a build, own, operate, and transfer (BOOT) basis. The projects will involve the augmentation of under-construction substations in Gujarat and Karnataka. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Vakrangee: Vakrangee has renewed its agreement with the Bank of Baroda to continue offering business correspondent (BC) banking and comprehensive financial inclusion services across India through Vakrangee Kendra outlets. 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 07, 2025, 08:20 IST This State Creates The Most Jobs According To RBI Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 13:19 IST According to reports, 39,699 small and medium enterprises in Tamil Nadu have created jobs for 481,807 workers, driving the state to rank first in the country with 842,720 man-days of employment Tamil Nadu has established a new record by generating an average of 1.75 man-days of employment per worker. (Representative/PTI File) The Reserve Bank of Indias (RBI) growth report for 2023-24 has revealed that Tamil Nadu is the top employer in the country. Tamil Nadu has provided more employment opportunities through small and medium enterprises than Gujarat and Maharashtra, which have been leading in economic and industrial development for many years," the Tamil Nadu government said in a press release. related stories It was reported that 39,699 small and medium enterprises in Tamil Nadu have provided employment opportunities to 481,807 workers. Consequently, Tamil Nadu has secured first place in the country overall with 842,720 man-days of employment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tamil Nadu has established a new record by generating an average of 1.75 man-days of employment per worker," the RBI report stated. At the same time, Maharashtra provides employment opportunities for an average of 1.13 man-days per worker, while Gujarat provides an average of 1.37," the Tamil Nadu government highlighted in its release. Location : Tamil Nadu, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 13:19 IST BPSC Exam Row: SC Refuses to Hear Plea Over Alleged Irregularities, Asks Petitioner To Move HC Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:35 IST BPSC exam row: A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan asked petitioner to move the Patna High Court with the grievances Police use lathi charge and water cannons to disperse protesting BPSC aspirants in Patna. (Image: PTI) The Supreme Court has refused to entertain a plea over alleged irregularities in the BPSC 70th CCE prelims exam. The petition mentioned that there has been rigging in the 70th examination and hence it should be cancelled and conducted again. A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices Sanjay Kumar and K V Viswanathan asked the petitioner to move the Patna High Court with the grievances. We are asking you to go to the Patna High Court," the CJI said. related stories We understand your sentiments attachedbut we cannot be the court of first instance," the CJI further said, adding that, and we feel it will be appropriate and more expeditious that the petitioner approached the Patna High Court under Article 226 of the Constitution." BPSC Exam Row: What Counsel Said? The counsel appearing for the petitioner, Anand Legal Aid Forum Trust, urged the top court to consider the plea. He said that the place where police led a charge with batons on peaceful protestors was near the Patna High Court chief justices official residence and a suo-motu note could have been taken. The Counsel, Abhijit Anand said, The entire nation has seen how the Bihar Police has brutally lathy charged the protestors" that malpractices have now become a routine, the manner in which paper leaks are happening," reported LiveLaw. What Is The BPSC Exam Protests All About? The exam was held on December 13, 2024. However, chaos broke out at the Bapu Pariksha Parisar exam centre in Patna due to an alleged 45-minute delay in distributing the exam papers. CCTV footage showed people tearing question papers and grabbing exam sheets from other candidates during the test. Hours after the chaos unfolded at the BPSC exam centre in Patna, aspirants sat in protest against the BPSC demanding the cancellation of the exam and urging for re-examination. Several students announced a hunger strike. Bihar police had allegedly used force to control the protestors. The re-examination was held on January 4, 2025, at about 22 examination centres in Patna. Of the 12,012 candidates eligible for the retest, a total of 8,111 downloaded their admit cards, and 5,943 appeared for the examination. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Patnas Gandhi Maidan seeking cancellation of the exam, was arrested 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. with PTI inputs First Published: January 07, 2025, 16:03 IST Reschedule UGC-NET Test Proposed During Pongal: Tamil Nadu CM To Pradhan Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 19:51 IST Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin argued that it would cause hardship to a large number of candidates if the proposed exams were conducted during the Pongal holidays. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin (PTI photo) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin appealed to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday to reschedule the UGC-NET exams proposed to be held during the Pongal festival season. Seeking his immediate intervention, the Chief Minister said in a letter addressed to the Central Minister, it was announced that the UGC-NET examinations and other examinations would be held from January 13-16. However, in Tamil Nadu, the Harvest festival Pongal was celebrated for four days from January 13, every year. related stories These dates are well known and the entire Tamil community celebrates the four days Pongal festival with fervor. The Government of Tamil Nadu has already declared January 14-17 as holidays," the CM said in the letter. He argued that it would cause hardship to a large number of candidates if the proposed exams were conducted during the Pongal holidays. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all I am given to understand that the Chartered Accountants Foundation examination, January 2025, has already been rescheduled for the same reason," Stalin pointed out. Hence, he considered that there was a real need to reschedule the exams to appropriate dates, thereby ensuring that students and scholars of Tamil Nadu and other states where the Harvest festival is celebrated could appear for the examinations. First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:51 IST TANCET 2025 Notification To Be Released On January 19, Check Exam Details Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 15:14 IST TANCET 2025: The exam is held every year for admission into MBA and MCA programmes offered by various colleges and institutions across Tamil Nadu. TANCET 2025 application soon at tancet.annauniv.edu (Representative/File) Anna University, Tamil Nadu will be releasing the notification for the Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET) 2025 on January 19, 2025 (Sunday). The exam is held every year for admission into MBA and MCA programmes offered by various colleges and institutions across Tamil Nadu. Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can register on the official website of Anna University at tancet.annauniv.edu, once the application process begins. related stories TANCET 2025: How To Check Notification? Step 1: Visit the official website of TANCET at tancet.annauniv.edu Step 2: Search for and click on the notification link available on the webpage, once released. Step 3: The notification will appear on the screen in a PDF format Step 4: Download and take a print out of the same for future reference. TANCET 2025: Application Fee As per last years exam process, candidates falling under the Scheduled Caste (SC), Special Central Assistance (SCA), and Scheduled Tribe (ST) of Tamil Nadu are required to pay Rs 500 as an application fee at the time of registration for the TANCET MCA and TANCET MBA programmes. While unreserved category candidates are required to pay Rs 1000 during registration. TANCET 2025: Exam Pattern The examination is held offline. Talking about the exam pattern, the TANCET question paper comprises 100 questions. Each question carries one mark. Candidates should note that for every incorrect response, a one-third mark is deducted. Furthermore, the Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test is held for two hours. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a minimum of 50 per cent in their graduation. However, for candidates belonging to reserved categories, the minimum required percentage is 45 per cent. Those who clear the exam will next have to apply for the counselling process, the details of which will be released only the results are out. Last year, the exam was held on March 9, 2024, in two shifts. TANCET MCA was conducted from 10 AM to noon and TANCET MBA from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. The results were released on March 28, 2024. First Published: January 07, 2025, 15:10 IST Delhi Dangal Dates Out, A Look At 3 Key Issues That Dominated The Election Narrative Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 14:44 IST Delhi Elections: The first major electoral battle of 2025 will see a triangular contest among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress The term of the Delhi assembly is due to end on February 23. (AP) The stage is all set for the Delhi Dangal. The Election Commission on Tuesday announced the dates for the high-stakes assembly election to the Capital where voting will take place on February 5 and the results will be announced on February 8. The first major electoral battle of 2025 will see a triangular contest among the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Congress. The term of the Delhi assembly is due to end on February 23. related stories For the AAP, which has battled corruption charges and seen its top brass cool their heels in prison, the elections are a litmus test to prove that the party which was birthed from an anti-corruption movement still rules over the hearts of Delhiites. Arvind Kejriwals party, which has ruled Delhi with a full majority since 2015, is hoping that its schemes such as free electricity, water, and free bus rides for women, apart from a monthly stipend of Rs 2,100, free healthcare for the elderly, and a waiver of inflated water bills will help it retain power in the Capital. Meanwhile, the BJP, which has been out of power in Delhi for over 26 years, is keen to claw back power from Kejriwal and AAP. In a scathing attack on AAP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while kicking off BJPs poll campaign, equated its rule in Delhi to AAPda (disaster)". The saffron party has upped the ante against the ruling AAP by targeting Kejriwals extravagant expenditure on the CMs bungalow when he held the top post. For the Congress, the 2025 contest is a do-or-die battle. The Grand Old Party has been unable to open its account in the Capital which it ruled for 15 years in the previous two elections. Snubbed by the AAP, with whom it is fighting on the national level as part of the INDIA bloc, the Congress has been trying to revive its fortunes. It has promised Rs 2,500 monthly to women under the Pyaari Didi Yojana if voted back to power. As the political temperatures rise, lets take a look at key issues that have dominated and will continue to drive the Delhi discourse: CORRUPTION In an ironic turn of events, the AAP, which came to power on the anti-corruption plank, was embroiled in a liquor scam, faced cases of money laundering, and even faced barbs over the expensive renovation at the chief ministers residence. The partys top brass was forced to spend time in jail, ranging from six months to two years. However, now out on bail, the AAP has hit the electoral track running and accused the BJP of trying to implicate its leaders to intimidate them into jumping ship. The BJP, meanwhile, has accused Kejriwal of being the master puppeteer who knows all about the scams right under his nose. The party, while sharpening its attack on the former CMs Sheesh Mahal, accused the AAP convener of diverting peoples money to fund his extravagant project. Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that over Rs 6 crore was spent on designer marbles, Rs 6 crore on motorised curtains, Rs 70 lakh on automatic doors, Rs 50 lakh on carpets and Rs 64 lakh on smart TVs at the chief ministers residence when Kejriwal occupied it. The voter sentiment on the corruption issue seems divided. While many believe the AAP is a victim of vendetta politics, others feel the party has lost its sheen and joined the bandwagon of tainted outfits. CIVIC ISSUES Mounds of garbage, overflowing drains, water shortage or supply of dirty water and damaged roads have become major issues for voters in the Capital. While the BJP blames AAP for the urban apathy, the latter claims the saffron party has only tried to defame it and stall the work of the MCD. Delhis dwindling air quality, which returns to haunt the Capital in winters every year, has also become a bone of contention between the two parties. Unfortunately, the ultimate losers in the tug-of-war are Delhiites who are forced to deal with unaddressed civic issues. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all ROW OVER VOTER ROLLS The controversy over the alleged manipulation of electoral rolls in the Capital escalated after Delhi Chief Minister Atishi wrote to the Chief Election Commissioner, seeking another round of verification of the voter deletions in the New Delhi assembly constituency. The revised voter list on Monday triggered the AAP, which accused the EC of indulging in large-scale voter deletion fraud" even as the BJP claimed AAP failed to register fake voters, especially Rohingya and Bangladeshi individuals" this time. First Published: January 07, 2025, 14:44 IST 'Voting Wednesday': Mid-Week Polling In Delhi To Deter Voters From Taking Off On Long Weekend Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 18:15 IST All 13,033 polling stations in Delhi are urban, and it has been a massive challenge for the Election Commission to get urban voters to booths despite all its efforts in other cities The voter turnout in Delhi in the 2020 assembly polls was almost 63%, and polling took place on a Saturday. (Image: PTI/File) Karnataka in 2023 and Maharashtra in 2024 for both elections, polling took place in the middle of the week. And now it is Delhis turn on February 5, which is a Wednesday, as the Election Commission once again uses mid-week voting to combat urban apathy. All 13,033 polling stations in Delhi are urban, and it has been a massive challenge for the Election Commission of India (ECI) to get urban voters to booths despite all its efforts in other cities. It also happens to be a single-phase election as all 70 assembly constituencies in Delhi go to polls on the same day. related stories The EC started using mid-week polling as a means to discourage voters from planning mini-breaks and weekend getaways, so as to fight urban apathy towards voting. This was first attempted in March 2023 when the dates for the Karnataka polls were announced. Although there was not much improvement in the urban voter turnout, there was still a slight increase at 55 per cent from 54.6 per cent in 2018. ALSO READ | Numberspeak: UPs Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar Saw Lowest Voter Turnout Since 2014; Heres What Caused It When it first announced the Haryana polls, it was decided that voting would be conducted on October 1, 2024 (Tuesday), but later the dates were changed to October 5 (Saturday). The consequences were that parts of Gurugram and Faridabad witnessed poor voter turnout, with some booths registering only 20 per cent. This means for every 100 voters, only 20 came out to vote. But, when Maharashtra went to polls in November 2024, voting took place on November 20, again a Wednesday. It worked well and the voter turnout improved by close to six percentage points from 2019 to 56 per cent in Mumbai, despite the city reporting the lowest participation in the state. In Lok Sabha, this could not be practiced and the impact was seen across cities. The first two phases were conducted on a Friday and, both times, the voter turnout was lower than in 2019, except for some constituencies. The fourth and fifth phases were conducted on a Monday while the final two phases were held on a Saturday. ALSO READ | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Baramulla Surpasses Voter Turnout in Mumbai, Thane, Amethi, Lucknow in Fifth Phase top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The voter turnout in Delhi was below 60 per cent during the Lok Sabha polls when voting took place on May 25 (a Saturday). In the 2020 assembly polls, it was almost 63 per cent and the voting took place on a Saturday. An EC official told News18 that while this may not be a 100 percent solution, it is the minimum they can do. There are a lot of efforts from the commission to increase voter turnout. From running awareness drives to various competitions, we try to reach each and every voter. Mid-week polling is also an attempt from our side," the official said. First Published: January 07, 2025, 18:15 IST Ladki Bahin In Delhi? After AAP's Rs 2100, Cong's Rs 2500 Promise For Women, All Eyes On BJP's Move Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 10:52 IST While the BJP is expected to take a similar route, what is debatable right now is the monthly amount the saffron party is ready to promise. It was the BJP which wanted to surprise and shock both the AAP and the Congress with the Rs 2,100 allowance announcement and promise to continue all welfare measures, which the Prime Minister has already done. (Image: PTI) The Aam Aadmi Party has announced that monthly stipend for women aged 18 years and above under Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana has been hiked to Rs 2,100 from Rs 1,000 proposed earlier. In a competitive space, after women voters of Maharashtra rewarded the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress too unveiled its Pyari Didi Yojana promising a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 to eligible women. However, the BJP hasnt come out with any announcement so far. However, News18 has learnt inside details of what could be the reason behind it and what may follow. While the BJP is expected to take a similar route, what is debatable right now is the monthly amount the saffron party is ready to promise, said a Delhi BJP leader on condition of anonymity. The same Delhi BJP leader is of the opinion that the leadership is thinking of Rs 2500. But having known Congresss promise, it gave an edge to us. Whether the leadership would like to avail the edge in spite of the fiscal burden, is beyond my paycheck." related stories Interestingly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while listing what his government has done for Delhi, gave a hint from his Rohini rally of what the women can expect in the days to come. The BJP government in Delhi will ensure that running the house is easy for our mothers and sisters, education and jobs of our daughters are easier and secure, there is an increase in earning for the Delhi residents and there is increased saving in their pockets," PM Modi said. Whats interesting, however, is that BJP sources say AAP never had the target of giving a monthly allowance of Rs 2,100 to women and instead had decided on just Rs 1000. It was the BJP which wanted to surprise and shock both the AAP and the Congress with the Rs 2,100 allowance announcement and promise to continue all welfare measures, which the Prime Minister has already done. But somehow, the figure got leaked, said a BJP source, which was instantaneously announced by the Delhi government. Reportedly, everything happened so fast that the party and government were not on the same page, resulting in the Delhi governments Women and Child Development and Health departments issuing public notices calling the scheme non-existent". But now, the BJP source insisted its behind them and they hope" the saffron party leadership will launch a womens scheme promise that is competitive". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The BJP is slated to make its announcements in its Delhi manifesto whenever it releases it. Meanwhile, the Election Commission is likely to announce Delhi poll dates today. From West Bengals Lakhir Bhandar in 2021 to Ladki Bahin in Maharashtra in 2024, financial assistance schemes for women have proven to be a game-changer for political parties like BJP, Congress, and TMC in Maharashtra, Karnataka and West Bengal elections. First Published: January 07, 2025, 10:52 IST What Is UKs Grooming Gangs Scandal Involving Pakistanis, Why Has Musk Accused PM Starmer? Explained Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 13:06 IST A series of high-profile cases involving groups of men, mainly of Pakistani descent, were convicted of sexually abusing and raping young white girls in the UK. At least 1,400 children were systematically abused by these gangs in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013 Elon Musk said UK PM Keir Starmer didnt do anything about the grooming gangs scandal while being the head of the Crown Prosecution Service between 2008 and 2013. (Photo: Reuters) Tesla CEO and DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) head Elon Musk recently took on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Pakistani grooming gangs", who have sexually abused thousands of young girls over the years. Musk accused Starmer of being deeply complicit in the mass rapes" in order to win votes. In his X posts, Musk said Starmer didnt do anything about the grooming gangs scandal while being the head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) between 2008 and 2013. related stories Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain So many people at all levels of power in the UK need to be in prison for this," Musk said. What Is The Grooming Gangs Scandal? The UK media had started reporting about a series of high-profile cases where groups of men, mainly of Pakistani descent, were convicted of sexually abusing and raping young white girls in the country. These gangs" operated by befriending underage victims, often using alcohol, substances, and gifts to manipulate them. In most cases, the victims are vulnerable children living under state care or in broken homes. In 2012, The Times newspaper investigated Rotherham grooming gangs. At least 1,400 children were subjected to sexual exploitation in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013, according to BBC, quoting a 2014 report written by Prof Alexis Jay. The report made headlines in the UK and around the world and led to major debates in Parliament and inquiries. Similar scandals were also reported in other towns, including Oldham, Oxford, Rochdale and Telford, which led to a national investigation in the child sexual abuse cases. How Many Cases Of Child Sexual Abuse Were Reported? A secret police document claimed that at least 1,400 children over a decade and a half had been systematically abused by Pakistani men. Some of the victims were as young as 11, and suffered rape and trafficking. The Telegraph, quoting Prof Jays report, said the 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." According to a police officer in Rotherham, quoted in the report, the abuse had been going on for three decades. With it being Asians, we cant afford for this to be coming out," he said. 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. Prof Jays report in 2014 noted that council staffers described their nervousness about identifying the ethnic origins of perpetrators for fear of being thought racist; others remembered clear direction from their managers not to do so". Was Starmer Complicit? The CPS is an independent body that prosecutes criminal cases in England and Wales. After the police investigates crimes, the CPS decides whether to prosecute based on evidence and public interest. Starmer, who was the head of CPS in 2008 for five years, became an MP in 2015. The CPS was criticised for a decision to not proceed with a prosecution in Rochdale on the basis that it viewed the main victim as unreliable", according to the BBC report. But that decision was overturned in 2011. A 2013 report from the Home Affairs Committee said that unlike many other official agencies implicated in this issue", the CPS had readily admitted that victims had been let down by them and have attempted both to discover the cause of this systematic failure and to improve the way things are done so as to avoid a repetition of such events". CPS figures dating back to 2007 show that the number of prosecutions for child sexual abuse flagged cases" did rise from that year to reach 4,794 in April 2010 to March 2011 a peak for Starmers time in charge of the CPS. That total reached nearly 7,200 prosecutions in 2016-2017. A Times report from 2011 identified 17 grooming gang prosecutions since 1997. It said 14 of them took place during the previous three years and involved the on-street grooming of girls aged 11 to 16 by groups of men across 13 towns and cities. A report by the National Police Chiefs Council last year concluded that 5% of child sexual abuse and exploitation crimes were group-based but not much data was available. What Has The Government Done To Stop These Gangs? The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) launched operation Linden in 2014 to look into how the South Yorkshire Police responded to child sexual abuse complaints after Prof Jay report was 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. The authorities then began Operation Stovewood 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. Operation Stovewood was the single largest law enforcement operation of its kind, the Guardian quoted NCA as saying. Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had launched the grooming gang task force in 2023, and said the perpetrators had eluded justice for too long due to political correctness". Suella Braverman, a Conservative MP and then home secretary, suggested in a column for the Daily Mail in in 2023 that almost all" those involved in the grooming gangs phenomenon" are British-Pakistani men. The newspaper later clarified that she was referring specifically to high-profile cases such as Rotherham and Rochdale," adding that the perpetrators of child sexual abuse, more broadly, are a variety of ethnicities". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Although a report published in the UKs Home Office said there was not enough information to conclude that a majority of group-based child abusers were of Pakistani origin. Some studies suggest an over-representation of Black and Asian offenders relative to the demographics of national populations. However, it is not possible to conclude that this is representative of all group-based CSE (child sexual exploitation) offending," the report said. First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:57 IST Why Do Russians Observe Christmas On January 7, What Has Changed About Ukraines Celebrations Amidst War? Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:24 IST Certain Eastern Orthodox churches, including those in Russia, follow the ancient Julien calendar, which runs 13 days later than the Gregorian calendar used by Catholic and Protestant churches around the world Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church asserted that the West was in moral collapse, and Russia showed the world how to blend science, culture, education and faith. (AP File Photo) While many around the world celebrate Christmas on December 25, Russians and those following Eastern Orthodox traditions will follow the holy day on January 7. Certain Eastern Orthodox churches, including those in Russia, follow the ancient Julien calendar, which runs 13 days later than the Gregorian calendar used by Catholic and Protestant churches and much of the secular world. But some Orthodox, Greek and Ukrainian churches celebrate Christmas on December 25, like the West and the rest of the world. related stories Why Is Christmas Being Celebrated On January 7? The Christians around the world followed the calendar adopted by Roman Emperor Julius Caesar in 46 BC. According to the calendar, one year was the time it took the Sun to go around the Earth. However, the calendar overestimated the solar year by 11 minutes. Over the years, the Julian Calendar and the solar year got increasingly out of sync. Sixteenth century Pope Gregory XIII later approved a revised, more astronomically precise calendar, which bears his name. It shifted the calendar several days forward to make up for lost time and added a more precise calculation of leap years. Protestant churches eventually followed the Catholics in adopting the calendar, as did secular governments. All Eastern Orthodox followed the old calendar until 1923, when an inter-Orthodox gathering adopted a revised Julian calendar that essentially mirrors the Gregorian. Most (but not all) churches in the Greek Orthodox tradition have adopted this, as have those in Romanian, Bulgarian and other traditions. But the Russian Orthodox Church, the largest communion in Eastern Orthodoxy, has kept to the old calendar, observing Christmas on January 7. Even Serbian, Georgian and some other Orthodox Church follow the same tradition. That being said, Russia will be forced to change its date in 2100. As the divide between the Gregorian calendar and the Julian calendar continues to grow, the Orthodox Church in Russia will have to start celebrating Christmas on January 8 in about 75 years. What Does Ukraine Follow? Ukraine, a Christian dominated country, has historically followed the Russian Orthodox Church. But following the war in February 2022, Ukraine for the first time did not celebrate Christmas on January 7 in 2023. In an assertion of their national identity and cultural independence from Russia and its associations, the Ukraine government declared December 25 to be Christmas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainians wanted to live their own life with their own traditions and holidays". The newer Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which received recognition from the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople in 2019, observed Christmas on December 25. Why The Ukrainian Orthodox Church Was Banned Ukraine has two Orthodox churches the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). Though the UOC has always sided with the Russian Orthodox Church in Moscow, it claimed it had cut ties with Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. The Ukrainian government expressed mistrust over the claim and launched dozens of criminal proceedings, including treason charges, against the churchs clerics. It adopted a law on August 20 that banned religious groups linked to Moscow. The move was aimed at targeting the UOC, which the government accused of complicity in Russias invasion of Ukraine. How Russias Orthodox Church Patriarch Reacted? Russias Orthodox Church patriarch said on Tuesday that the Western world despised Russia and its alternative path of civilised development". Patriarch Kirill, a backer of Russias invasion of Ukraine, blessed icons and crosses that were to be engraved with the presidents initials and sent to servicemen in the 34-month-old war in Ukraine, Russian news agencies quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. Krill stressed that Russia presents a challenge to powerful countries. They hate us because we are offering a different, alternative path of civilised development," he said at Christ the Saviour cathedral, which was rebuilt on the site of a swimming pool in the 1990s after Soviet dictator Josef Stalin levelled it in the 1930s. He asserted that the West was in moral collapse, and Russia showed the world how to blend science, culture, education and faith. Physically, they cannot really smother us, though they try through different types of slander and the creation of blocs of some sort intended to weaken Russia," he said. Nothing will work because God is with us." Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin in his Christmas message praised the church for strengthening the institution of family, the upbringing of young people and the affirmation of moral ideas". How Does Eastern Orthodox Celebrate Christmas? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Those who follow the Orthodox Church fast for 40 days before Christmas and dont eat meat. After the Christmas Eve mass on January 6, they throw a giant feast to celebrate the last day of their fast. At the feast, 12 traditional dishes are served, meant to represent Christs apostles. Some of the dishes include cabbage soup, baked apples, vegetable stew, and bread. Some groups indulge in caroling, decorating houses with wheat sheaves. The Serbian churches burn an oak branch or a young oak tree which is accompanied by the proclamation of the birth of Christ. First Published: January 07, 2025, 16:24 IST Iceland to continue to use its voice in support of Ukraine everywhere FM Reykjavik will continue to provide targeted practical support to Ukraine, Icelandic Foreign Minister orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir assured during her visit to Kyiv. "Iceland, of course, will continue to use its voice in support of Ukraine everywhere. And we will continue to provide targeted practical support, for example, in the field of demining, energy infrastructure and your defense industry. I think this is very important through the so-called Danish model," she said at a press conference with her Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Sybiha in Kyiv, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reports. The Minister of Foreign Affairs stressed that Russias gross violations of the UN Charter represent a major challenge for the entire international community, and it is necessary "to ensure that Russia does not achieve its goal by completely violating international law." "The multilateral system and our shared values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law are at stake," Gunnarsdottir added. She pointed out that "no one wants peace more than the Ukrainians," and it must be a just and lasting peace based on the UN Charter. "And it is essential that there is nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine," Gunnarsdottir said. The Minister emphasized Icelands unwavering solidarity with the people of Ukraine and its continued commitment to providing humanitarian, economic and defense support to Ukraine. "And I emphasize: as much as necessary. We truly admire your resilience and determination in your fight for your freedom and sovereignty," she said. The minister also reported that in the morning she visited a large thermal power plant to see with her own eyes the destruction that the war has brought to Ukraine. Will US Remove Nuclear Sanctions? How Will India Benefit From It? | Explained Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 18:58 IST Over two decades, India and the US have built mutual trust. According to sources, three Indian entities might be removed from the US blacklist, but two legal hurdles are delaying progress in nuclear talks India possesses expertise in constructing small reactors and has a well-established civil nuclear programme. (News18 Hindi) US National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, has stated that the US government is taking steps to lift sanctions imposed on Indian nuclear institutions. This move aims to facilitate the establishment of energy relations with India and potentially strengthen the historic nuclear agreement signed two decades ago. India utilises nuclear power plants for a significant portion of its energy needs. An agreement signed in 2007 by then-President George W. Bush granted America permission to sell civilian nuclear technology to India. However, the agreements stipulations repeatedly hindered its implementation. America is now considering the removal of these obstructive rules. related stories The United States is finalising the steps necessary to remove long-term regulatory barriers hindering civilian nuclear cooperation between Indias leading nuclear entities and American companies," Sullivan said at a programme in New Delhi on the second day of his two-day visit. What did India do in 1998 In May 1998, India conducted nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan, on the 11th and 13th. This operation, known as Operation Shakti, led to economic sanctions from numerous countries. The United States responded by imposing sanctions on over 200 Indian institutions. Are these sanctions still in force Despite most countries lifting sanctions against India, and the United States removing numerous institutions from its restricted list following improved bilateral relations, some restrictions remain. The US removal of these institutions followed developments such as the nuclear agreement signed during Manmohan Singhs tenure as Prime Minister. However, Indias objections to certain stringent conditions stalled the agreements full implementation. While a civil nuclear cooperation agreement was signed by India and America in March 2006, sanctions targeting Indian companies persisted, hindering broader cooperation. As per the US Federal Register, several institutions under the Indian Department of Atomic Energy faced restrictions imposed by the US Bureau of Export Administration. Institutions such as the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Indian Rare Earths, and certain nuclear reactors were among those banned in 1998. What is its latest status? As US President Joe Bidens four-year term nears its end on January 20, he has sent a letter to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflecting on the growth in India-US relations. The letter was delivered by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. Significantly, the US is finalising steps to remove several Indian companies from its restricted entity list. This action aims to pave the way for cooperation in the civilian nuclear sector, enabling collaboration between leading Indian nuclear institutions and American companies. How will India and America benefit from this Increased business engagement between American nuclear sectors and India presents a significant opportunity. It fosters deep collaboration between the private sectors, scientists, and technologists of both nations. This collaboration, in turn, strengthens bilateral relations between India and America. Why is US becoming more flexible Indias continuous progress in nuclear energy hasnt gone unnoticed by the United States. Theres a growing recognition that collaboration between the two nations is mutually beneficial. From energy to space exploration, the two countries find themselves increasingly reliant on each others strengths. This is evident in the collaboration between American and Indian companies to develop next-generation semiconductor technologies. Furthermore, American and Indian astronauts are poised to embark on joint ventures in cutting-edge research and space exploration. Consequently, America is making significant investments in India. This reciprocal relationship is further strengthened by Indias contribution to American investment. Over the past two decades, the two countries have fostered closer ties and a heightened sense of mutual trust. Some estimates suggest that Indian investment in America has generated 400,000 jobs. Where Are The Deadlocks US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan did not give detailed information. However, sources have revealed that three entities could be removed from the blacklist. At present, two major legal hurdles are delaying progress in taking forward India-US nuclear cooperation. On the US side, a significant hurdle is the 10 CFR 810 authority (Part 810 of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Part 810) of the US Atomic Energy Act, 1954), which allows US nuclear vendors to export equipment to countries like India under certain strict security measures but does not allow them to manufacture any nuclear equipment or undertake any nuclear design work there. A further deadlock exists concerning responsibility for compensation to victims in the event of an accident. It remains to be seen how the two countries will address these issues. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Why the US Seeks to Collaborate with India in Nuclear Energy India presents a substantial and burgeoning market for nuclear energy and reactors. The nation is actively pursuing the large-scale development of nuclear reactors, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs) with capacities ranging from 30 MW to 300 MW, to meet future energy demands. First Published: January 07, 2025, 18:58 IST You Are Virtually A Stranger: Supreme Court To Atul Subhashs Mother Who Sought Kids Custody Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Poulami Kundu Last Updated: January 08, 2025, 09:54 IST Atul Subhash Death: There is a separate procedure in case you want custody of the child, " one of the judges told Atul Subhashs mother. Atul reportedly had Rs 44,000 remaining each month for his and his family's living expenses, including rent, in Bengaluru. (News18 Hindi) Atul Subhash death: The Supreme Court on Tuesday morning refused to entertain the plea of Atul Subhashs mother, who wanted the custody of the Bengaluru techies 4-year-old son. The top court observed that the child had one parent alive and Subhashs mother was virtually a stranger to the child". There is a separate procedure in case you want custody of the child, " one of the judges told Atul Subhashs mother. related stories We dont want to say it, but youre virtually a stranger to the child. If you wish, please visit the child," the court told Atul Subhashs mother and urged her not to call her daughter-in-law guilty till her crime was proven in court. Also read: Atul Subhash, Puneet Khurana Cases Signs Of A Deeper Reality? MenToo Debate Demystified Though the Supreme Court bench headed by Justice B V Nagrathna refused the childs custody to Atul Subhashs mother, it kept the habeas corpus petition in the case pending till January 20. When the court asked about the childs whereabouts, Atul Subhashs wife Nikita Singhanias lawyer said the child was in her custody, adding that she was in judicial custody and was granted bail last Saturday. The Karnataka High Court on Monday orally observed that it cannot quash the complaint filed against Nikita Singhania for allegedly abetting the suicide of her husband Atul Subhash, a Bangalore-based techie, as prima facie ingredients of the offence are made out in the complaint. Atul Subhashs Wife, Her Family Get Bail A Bengaluru court on Saturday granted bail to engineer Atul Subhashs wife Nikita Singhania, her mother Nisha Singhania, and brother Anurag Singhania in the suicide abetment case. The 34-year-old techie ended his life on December 9 in Bengaluru, alleging harassment at the hands of his estranged wife and her family. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to the prosecution, the three accused appeared before the court. Subhash had alleged that his in-laws had pressured him to pay Rs three crore for divorce. Based on his 40-page suicide note and a one-and-half-hour video explaining the situation that drove him to take the drastic step, the police booked the trio, arrested them, and brought them from Uttar Pradesh to Bengaluru. First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:45 IST Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 22:20 IST Delhi Election 2025 Schedule, Dates: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday held a presser and said that the Delhi Assembly election will be held in a single phase on February 5 and the votes will be counted on February 8. With this, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force. In Delhi, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is vying a third consecutive term while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are hoping to stop the Arvind Kejriwal party in the polls. The Congress party is also in the fray but is going alone this time against its Lok Sabha polls ally AAP. In 2020, Delhi elections were announced on January 6, polling was held on February 8, and votes were counted on February 11. AAPs campaign is being led by partys national convener Arvind Kejriwal, who stepped down as Chief Minister after he was granted bail in a corruption case. Arvind Kejriwal asserted that his party would win in the peoples court verdict. Over 1.55 crore electors are registered to vote in Delhi, including 2.08 lakh first-time voters aged 1819 years, as per the electoral roll published by the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer. Stay tuned with news18.com for the latest updates. Do Away With VIP Culture In Temples, Says Vice President Dhankhar Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 19:58 IST Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was launching the countrys largest queue complex at Sri Manjunatha Temple. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. (File Photo) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said on Tuesday that we should do away with the VIP culture, particularly in temples, as the very idea of VIP darshan militates against divinity. He also called upon the people to rise above the politics of disruption and help the country reach its objective of a developed India by 2047. related stories "When precedence is accorded and priority is given to someone when we label it as VVIP or VIP this is belittling the concept of equality. VIP culture is an aberration. It is an incursion. When viewed on the anvil of equality, it should have no place in society, much less in religious places," said Dhankhar. The Vice President was launching the countrys largest queue complex at Sri Manjunatha Temple here. The facility is known as Shri Saanidhya. While delivering his keynote address, Dhankhar criticised the tendency prevailing in todays political milieu, where people, instead of engaging in dialogue, disrupt democratic values. According to him, the political changes that are taking place in India, engineered by the political forces inimical to Indian democracy, are "more dangerous than the climate change". "We must neutralise the anti-India forces that are trying to make us weak by divisions and misinformation. We must stop them from tarnishing the great name of our country and all that it has gained towards achieving inclusivity, welfare and strengthening our democracy," he added. At a time when India is surging ahead with its development on multiple levels, Dhankhar said we must start a new narrative against divisive forces and defeat them with our resolve to be united, focused and development oriented. "Our society was not built on the tenets of materialism. So, I call the corporates of India to come forward and contribute for the cause of health and education by using CSR funds," he said. He also proposed five tenets for modern India, which he called Panch Pran, for a vibrant and inclusive democracy. Social harmony, which in turn will strengthen family stability and values, environmental protection and strengthening of the fundamental rights of every citizen, should be our go-to values, he said. But according to him, fundamental rights must be coupled with fundamental duties. "We must put working for our nation above our own interests," he added. Dhankhar, accompanied by his wife Sudesh, took a darshan of the presiding deity of the temple town Lord Manjunatha Swamy (a roopa of Shiva) along with D Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, before the event. He also took a tour of the Shri Saanidhya, the new queue complex and appreciated the commitment of the temple trust in providing the devotees with the state-of-the-art infrastructure. Conceptualised by Heggade, the new facility is an advanced replacement for the existing queue system. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The new queue system spans a total area of 2,75,177 square feet. It consists of a three-storey complex with 16 halls, each accommodating 600 to 800 devotees. The total capacity of the complex is between 10,000 and 12,000 devotees at a time, said the temple management. During his visit, Dhankhar also launched a scholarship programme for rural students, called the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) or Jnana Deepa Project. Location : Himachal Pradesh, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:58 IST Last Updated: January 15, 2025, 09:48 IST Earthquake Hits Tibet-Nepal Border, jolts Bihar, Delhi-NCR: People in Nepal and India evacuated their homes on Tuesday morning as soon as the massive earthquake struck. (Screengrab/X) Earthquake Hits Tibet-Nepal Border, jolts Bihar, Delhi-NCR: A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Tibet near the Nepal border on Tuesday morning. According to news agency AFP, 126 people have been killed so far due to the tremors and consequent building collapses in the region. Several parts of India, including Bihar, Delhi-NCR, Assam, and West Bengal, too, received the jolts. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS) and the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences, the massive quake hit Tibet at 6:35 am at a depth of 10 km. The epicentre was located at latitude 28.86 N and Longitude 87.51 E. According to NCS, four earthquakes jolted Tibet. The first measured 4.2 on the Richter scale at 5:41 am, the second and biggest (7.1) at 6:35 am, the third at 7:02 am of magnitude 4.7, and the fourth measuring 4.9 at 7:07. The NCS has shared details of the few more subsequent earthquakes that have been hitting the area. However, those were not too strong. #WATCH | Earthquake tremors felt in Bihars Sheohar as an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter Scale hit 93 km North East of Lobuche, Nepal at 06:35:16 IST today: USGS Earthquakes pic.twitter.com/bo2djz9laL In several parts of Bihar, including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, Munger, Araria, Sitamarhi, Gopalganj, Vaishali, Nawada, and Nalanda, the tremors were felt for around 30 seconds, sources told News18. Sharing her experience with news agency ANI, Meera Adhikari, a resident of Kathmandu, said she was sleeping when the 7.1 earthquake struck. VIDEO | A strong earthquake jolted Kathmandu early morning on Tuesday. The earthquake measuring 7 magnitude on Richter scale was recorded by the National Earthquake Measurement Centre at 6.50 am. Tremors were also felt in Bihars Madhubani.#Earthquake #Nepal (Full video pic.twitter.com/bRHdPgdmTf Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 7, 2025 She said, The bed was shaking and I thought my child was moving the bed, I didnt pay that much attention but the shaking of the window prompted me that it was an earthquake. I then hurriedly called my child and evacuated the house and came to the open ground. #BreakingNews | Tremors felt in multiple districts of #Bihar including Purnia, Munger, Araria, Sitamarhi & others No reports of casualties or damage yet. @kaidensharmaa with more details | #EarthquakeAlert | Kaveri Gupta pic.twitter.com/4MDpnFcU6e News18 (@CNNnews18) January 7, 2025 Strong Tremors In Nepal As well as Kathmandu, areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Everest were also rattled by the tremor and aftershocks. It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake, said government official Jagat Prasad Bhusal in Nepals Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest. But no damage or deaths had been reported so far and security forces had been deployed, Nepali Home Minister spokesman Rishi Ram Tiwari said. Nepal is prone to earthquakes due to its location at the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The ongoing collision and subduction between these plates generate frequent seismic activity. In 2015, nearly 9,000 people died and more than 22,000 were injured when a 7.8-magnitude quake struck Nepal, destroying more than half a million homes. Some tremors were felt in Bihar state in India but no injuries were reported. Three people were killed and dozens injured after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck along the mountainous China-Kyrgyzstan border in January last year. A quake in December 2023 in northwest China killed 148 people and displaced thousands in Gansu province. That quake was Chinas deadliest since 2014, when more than 600 people were killed in southwestern Yunnan province. In the December 2023 earthquake, subzero temperatures made the aid operation launched in response even more challenging, with survivors huddled around outdoor fires to keep warm. Farmers Announce Nation-wide Tractor March On January 26 Amid Jagjit Dallewal's Hunger Strike Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 17:36 IST Farmers sitting on dharna at Punjab-Haryana border announced a tractor march across the country on January 26. Farmers' protest at Delhi-Haryana border | File Image/PTI Farmers protesting on the Punjab-Haryana border announced a tractor march across the country on January 26. The announcement of the hunger strike came amid the ongoing hunger strike of prominent farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. The farmers have been protesting between Punjab and Haryana borders to press the Centre to accept the farmers demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price for crops. related stories Farmer leader, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, has been on an indefinite fast at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana since November 26. He has also refused medical aid offered by the Punjab government. 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. The 2021 Tractor Protest Earlier in 2021, thousands of farmers protesting over the controversial agricultural reforms stormed New Delhis historic Red Fort on January 26. The incident took a violent turn after a clash broke out between the farmers and the police. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Protesters scaled the walls of the iconic monument and hoisted a flag alongside Indias national flag. The farmers planned their march to coincide with the governments Republic Day parade. The farmers blocked several roads in protest against the three farm laws passed by the central government in September 2021. While experts believed that the laws were necessary to modernise Indias economy, farmers were worried that the reforms would leave them at the mercy of large corporations who would buy their crops for low prices, leading to their financial ruin. First Published: January 07, 2025, 17:05 IST Formula E Race Case: Telangana High Court Refuses To Quash FIR Against KT Rama Rao Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:19 IST On December 31, the HC had reserved its orders on the petition filed by the former minister after hearing the arguments made by the state government as well as the defence in the case. BRS leader KT Rama Rao, (Image: PTI/File) In a setback to BRS Working President K T Rama Rao, the Telangana High Court on Tuesday refused to quash the FIR against him in connection with the Formula E race issue, removing the protection against the arrest given to him. On December 31, 2024, the HC had reserved its orders on the petition filed by the former minister after hearing the arguments made by the state government as well as the defence in the case registered by the Anti- Corruption Bureau (ACB) which alleged that Rama Rao authorised payments to the tune of Rs 55 crore, most of it in forex, to Formula E Organisation without necessary approvals. related stories High Court Judge Justice K Lakshman in his order said the allegations indicate that Rama Rao without any approval from the State Cabinet or the finance department directed the HMDA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority) to pay huge sums of money to a foreign company. Whether the petitioner directed the said payments with a dishonest intention to cause gain to himself or third parties is required to be investigated. The allegations when read together make out a prima facie case of wrongdoing and misappropriation of funds of the HMDA," the order said. The investigating agency should have a reasonable opportunity to investigate and collect evidence. Therefore, the court cannot haste and thwart" the investigation in the present case, it opined. The court had earlier restricted ACB from arresting Rama Rao, son of BRS president and former Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, until the orders were pronounced and the present order removed that protection. After the courts order, Rama Rao, however, expressed confidence that truth would triumph in the end and he would come back stronger. Attacking the Congress government, he said its actions would not cow him down. Mark my words, our comeback will be stronger than this setback. Your lies wont shatter me. Your words wont diminish me. Your actions wont obscure my vision. This cacophony wont silence me!Todays obstacles will give way to tomorrows triumph," he said in a post on X. Rama Rao said he respects the judiciary and has an unwavering belief that justice will prevail. Following the High Courts verdict, Rama Rao held discussions with BRS leaders and legal advisors. Senior BRS leader T Harish Rao alleged this is a false case foisted by A Revanth Reddy government as part of diversion politics". The state government has been facing severe opposition from the public with respect to the implementation of farmers financial assistance scheme Rythu Bandhu, he claimed. He said they have been discussing with legal experts on the future course of action. We know that these kind of false cases will be foisted against our leaders. We are prepared to face them," Harish Rao said. He further said the High Court in its order stated that the investigation can be conducted in the case, but it did not say there is corruption. However, he added they would cooperate with the investigation. When contacted, a senior member of Rama Raos legal team told PTI they are yet to receive the High Court order copy, based on which they will take a call about whether to approach the Supreme Court and also as per his clients decision. During the arguments, Advocate General A Sudarshan Reddy pointed out that payments were made to Formula E Organisation without following business rules and necessary approvals while the defence advocates argued that there was no criminality in the case. The AG also argued that the case cannot be quashed at the FIR stage when the investigation is going on. The ACB had last week served a notice to the BRS MLA to appear before it on January 6, but as he left the agencys office without appearing before the officials on Monday, he was again issued fresh notice for appearance on January 9. The ACB on December 19 registered a case against Rama Rao, also known as KTR, 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. 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. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 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, though he sought time. The FIR named Rama Rao, an MLA now, as prime accused, senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and retired bureaucrat BLN Reddy as accused no 2 and 3 respectively. First Published: January 07, 2025, 16:17 IST Gujarat: Teen Girl Stuck In Borewell In Kutch Rescued After 33 Hours Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 17:25 IST The teenager was stuck at a depth of 490 feet in the 540-foot-deep borewell. An 18-year-old girl fell into a deep borewell, at Kanderai village of Bhuj, in Kutch (PTI) An 18-year-old girl, who fell into a deep borewell in Gujarats Kutch district, was brought out on Tuesday after efforts for more than 33 hours by multiple agencies and taken to a hospital, officials said. The incident took place at around 6.30 am on Monday at Kanderai village in Bhuj taluka of the district. The teenager was stuck at a depth of 490 feet in the 540-foot-deep borewell, they said. related stories The borewell had a diameter of one foot, and the fact that she was grown up and stuck deep into it made the rescue efforts difficult, the officials said. "The victim was stuck at 490 feet. After multiple attempts of rescuing, the victim has been evacuated/retrieved from the borewell. The victim is unconscious and shifted to ambulance for further treatment," the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said in an update. The girl was rushed to a hospital nearby, a police official said. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Border Security Force (BSF) were engaged in the rescue operation along with the fire department personnel of Bhuj municipality, local emergency response team, police and officials of the local administration. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The teenager belonged to a family of migrant labourers from Rajasthan. Authorities were initially doubtful about the familys version that a girl of her age fell into a borewell. Her presence was confirmed by Monday afternoon with the help of a camera. Location : Gujarat, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 17:25 IST HMPV Leads To Cold & Flu, Pandemic Very, Very Unlikely, Ex-CSIR Chief Tells News18 Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:59 IST Asked if there are chances of the virus undergoing mutations to become severe, the scientist explained that HMPV would need massive mutations to cause a pandemic, which would change the overall character of the virus itself Prominent biologist Dr Shekhar Mande told News18 that HMPV has been treated so ordinarily, similar to the common cold virus, that no one has ever paid much attention to its circulation. (Pixabay) A pandemic caused by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is highly unlikely because of the widespread immunity developed by humans over decades of past exposure to the virus, prominent biologist Dr Shekhar Mande told News18. The alarming visuals emerging from China, reportedly linked to HMPV, have sparked global fears, with many interpreting it as a potential resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic. related stories According to Mande, former director general, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, HMPV is very, very, very unlikely, to cause the next pandemic". The reason is simple," he said. HMPV has been around for a long time and pandemics are generally caused by new pathogens. For instance: SARS-CoV2 was a completely new virus that humanity had not seen earlier. Therefore, no human being had prior immunity against the virus," explained Mande, who is currently a distinguished professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University. ALSO READ | Chinas HMPV Outbreak Not A Threat Unless Top Epidemiologist Says Indians Can Breathe Easy For Now He added: HMPV has been around for a long time and, therefore, all of us have some kind of immunity against the virus. We must have had HMPV infection in the past. A pandemic caused by HMPV is highly unlikely." On being asked if there are chances of HMPV undergoing mutations to become more severe, the scientist explained that viruses are notorious for undergoing mutations, as seen in several cases such as SARS CoV2, influenza and HIV. While viruses do mutate, in this case, HMPV would need massive mutations if it were to cause a pandemic." Such large mutations would often end up changing the overall character of the virus itself." Hence, he reiterated that pandemics are caused by viruses that are hugely different from what humankind has seen in the past and thats not the case with HMPV". Just Another Common Cold Virus Discussing the characteristics of HMPV, Mande said the virus has been with humankind for a very long time". He said the virus has been treated so ordinarily, similar to the common cold virus, that no one has ever paid much attention to its circulation. It was isolated for the first time in the Netherlands in 2001. Theres no need to panic or report cases of HMPV Do we report cases of common cold and cough? HMPV is similar to that and never required separate reporting." According to Mande, who is also the former secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), HMPV came into focus after a regular winter surge in cases in China. The world has started talking about HMPV because a certain number of cases were reported in China causing infection. As we started talking about China, our memory took us back to the Covid-19 pandemic that originated from China," he said, adding that one of the main reasons the world has begun to panic is due to their underlying fear. ALSO READ | HMPV Mimics Covid Symptoms But Isnt Deadly: Experts Dismiss Outbreak Threat From 20-Year-Old Virus People know how bad a pandemic can be and, therefore, theres some kind of anxiety in peoples minds. But that anxiety is rather unfounded. HMPV is not capable of causing a pandemic." On being asked what should be the strategy of the government in controlling the unnecessary panic, Mande said the Union government has taken an accurate stance by releasing multiple statements clarifying that HMPV is not a new virus and that if the cases go up, the government seems fully ready to prepare any kind of contingency situation. But in this case, such a contingency will not arise". HMPV Infection Doesnt Mean Hospitalisation, Death Mande explained that generally, children below the age of five years and elderly people above the age of 65 or those with low immunity are more susceptible to catching infection caused by HMPV or any other virus. However, it doesnt mean that catching an infection would take them to hospital or they can die," he said, adding that these groups may get a more severe infection in their lower respiratory tract, but in most cases, they will recover on their own or with minor treatment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Standard precautions can be taken by a vulnerable set of the population such as practising hand hygiene, he added. We must remember to wash hands using soap for at least 20 seconds. Experts also recommend unwell people to stay at home so they dont pass that infection to others. It typically takes about 3-7 days to recover completely from a particular infection." First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:59 IST Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:40 IST HMPV Cases News: India has reported seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in children, with cases being confirmed in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Tamil Nadu, and Ahmedabad. 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. Cases of HMPV infections have been reported in India amid the surge of respiratory illnesses in China. However, the health ministry has assured the public that the situation is under surveillance and there is no risk of a COVID-19-like outbreak. China took a backseat over the concern of rising HMPV cases in the country and called it an 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. Ukraine wants to scale up project with Iceland on prosthetics for wounded Ukrainian soldiers Sybiha Photo: MFA of Ukraine In 2025, Ukraine seeks to scale up the project with Iceland on prosthetics for wounded soldiers, and also offers the Icelandic side to increase investments in Ukrainian weapons production, said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha. "We are also very grateful for the project on prosthetics for wounded Ukrainian soldiers. This year, we strive to implement this project and help restore even more of our servicemen," Sybiha said at a press conference with his Icelandic counterpart in Kyiv, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reports. The minister pointed out that in the security sphere, Iceland helps with demining, logistics, training of Ukrainian military personnel, in particular doctors, and supports initiatives for the prompt purchase of weapons from Ukrainian manufacturers. In addition, Iceland has already made a contribution according to the Danish model. "We also propose that the Icelandic side increase investments in Ukrainian arms production. We discussed this in detail with the Minister today," added Sybiha. Kerala Lottery Results Today: Sthree Sakthi SS-449 WINNERS for January 7, 2025; Full List Here! Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 12, 2025, 10:20 IST Kerala Lottery Results Today: Here's FULL LIST of winning numbers for Sthree Sakthi SS-449 lucky draw for Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Kerala Lottery Sthree Sakthi SS-449 Results: The first prize winner of Sthree Sakthi SS-449 will get Rs 75 Lakh. (Image: Shutterstock) KERALA LOTTERY STHREE SAKTHI SS-449 RESULT ON TUESDAY, 7.1.2025, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Sthree Sakthi SS-449 lucky draw for Tuesday, January 7. The first-place winner will receive a grand prize of Rs 75 lakh, while the second and third prizes are Rs 10 lakh and Rs 5,000, respectively. Check the Full List of Winning Numbers below. ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Results: Akshaya AK-685 WINNERS for January 12, 2025; First Prize Rs 70 Lakh! related stories FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR STHREE SAKTHI SS-449 LOTTERY WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE WORTH RS 8,000 ARE SA 193404 SB 193404 SD 193404 SE 193404 SF 193404 SG 193404 SH 193404 SJ 193404 SK 193404 SL 193404 SM 193404 WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE WORTH RS 75 LAKH IS SC 193404 (ERNAKULAM) Agent Name: VASUDHEVA BHATT P Agency No: E 8023 WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE WORTH RS 10 LAKH IS SA 533464 (NEYYATINKARA) Agent Name: HALEEMA M A Agency No: T 6663 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 3RD PRIZE WORTH RS 5,000 ARE 0826 1186 1980 2283 2668 2863 2880 3112 3570 4989 5851 6167 6366 6451 8423 8520 9057 9670 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE WORTH RS 2,000 ARE 0175 0798 0861 3599 6273 7177 7188 7481 8311 9815 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE WORTH RS 1,000 ARE 0132 0414 0908 1022 1957 2083 2138 2444 3399 3410 3511 4282 5229 5323 5368 5906 6696 8204 9299 9776 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE WORTH RS 500 ARE 0054 0894 0955 1233 1612 1751 1841 1883 2308 2327 2695 2786 3233 3256 3676 3858 4104 4150 4224 4560 4978 4996 5082 5547 6107 6172 6215 6354 6566 6843 7069 7472 7642 7844 7888 7931 8023 8129 8273 8343 8347 8378 8666 8834 9164 9341 9356 9407 9572 9717 9826 9931 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE WORTH RS 200 ARE 0095 0410 0565 0761 1109 1155 1173 1458 1524 1816 2006 2557 2738 2897 2898 2915 3028 3092 3141 3371 3373 3433 3653 4714 5310 5738 5867 5879 5966 6244 6759 7153 7214 7394 7499 7629 7716 7789 7841 7999 8039 8265 8432 9410 9557 WINNING NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE WORTH RS 100 ARE 0041 0087 0096 0107 0191 0278 0322 0483 0787 0991 1005 1008 1065 1094 1131 1295 1516 1618 1848 2019 2021 2041 2065 2196 2197 2237 2369 2395 2493 2606 2651 2807 2939 2983 3017 3192 3252 3265 3348 3375 3771 3820 3859 3865 3960 4091 4164 4228 4409 4479 4532 4550 4554 4614 4630 4640 5040 5089 5182 5228 5258 5299 5367 5442 5559 5651 5747 5813 5873 5992 6018 6073 6180 6188 6275 6341 6361 6399 6410 6489 6583 6789 6801 6964 7010 7233 7368 7414 7437 7525 7592 7615 7639 7678 7730 7738 7757 7769 7894 7916 8046 8079 8141 8183 8279 8361 8379 8696 8756 8893 8916 9038 9055 9122 9189 9190 9224 9297 9337 9396 9588 9743 9806 9864 9869 9892 KERALA LOTTERY RESULT: STHREE SAKTHI SS-449 PRIZE STRUCTURE 1st Prize: Rs 75 lakh 2nd Prize: Rs. 10 lakh 3rd Prize: Rs. 5,000 4th Prize: Rs. 2,000 5th Prize: Rs. 1,000 6th Prize: Rs. 500 7th Prize: Rs. 200 8th Prize: Rs. 100 Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000 HOW TO VERIFY KERALA STHREE SAKTHI SS-449 LOTTERY RESULTS? To view the results for Sthree Sakthi SS-449, go to www.keralalottery.info, the Kerala Lottery Departments official website. Additionally, the Kerala Government Gazette office has the winning numbers. Refer to the official sources for the most accurate and trustworthy results. HOW TO COLLECT YOUR PRIZE MONEY? By consulting the Kerala Government Gazette results, winners can confirm the legitimacy of their ticket. Winners have 30 days to visit the Kerala Lottery Office in Thiruvananthapuram to pick up their prize. To verify the award, the winning ticket and a valid ID must be shown. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY? A photocopy of the winning ticket that both parties have signed. Passport-sized pictures that have been verified by a gazetted officer. A copy of the participants PAN card that has been signed. A revenue stamp is linked to the prizes online claim form. Proof of identity, such as a voter ID, Aadhaar card, PAN card, or ration card. HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS? Visit keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net, the Kerala Lottery Departments official websites. Find the Sthree Sakthi SS-449 results link. Your screen will display the winning numbers. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the page, look for the download option for the results. Save the results of the SS-449 lottery as a PDF. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:00 IST Maharashtra: Upset Over Affair, Man Kills Cousin By Pushing Her Off Cliff Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 21:20 IST The deceased, Namrata Sherkar, a resident of Shahgad in adjoining Jalna district, was in a relationship with a man from a different community. Some local residents playing nearby saw the two going on the hill together, but the man later coming down alone. (News18) In a suspected case of honour killing, a 25-year-old man, angry over his 17-year-old cousins affair, allegedly pushed her off a 500 feet high cliff in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district of Maharashtra, police said on Tuesday. The deceased, Namrata Sherkar, a resident of Shahgad in adjoining Jalna district, was in a relationship with a man from a different community. However, the teenagers family and other relatives strongly disapproved of her affair, they said. related stories Namrata Sherkar resided in Shahgad along with her family members. When the girls family came to know about the affair, her father brought her to uncles house in Valadgaon near Waluj in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, said the police. Her cousin Rushikesh Sherkar, who is pursuing post-graduation in Pune, also disapproved of her affair and came down to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar to counsel her, said an official. On Monday, he took her to Khawdya hill near Waluj, on the citys outskirts, on the pretext of discussing the matter, and suddenly pushed her off a 500 feet high cliff, leading to her death, said the official. Some local residents playing nearby saw the two going on the hill together, but the man later coming down alone. They grew suspicious and caught Rushikesh Sherkar and handed him over to the police, who placed him under arrest, he said. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has strongly condemned the girls killing and asked the Maharashtra DGP to ensure the accused is booked under relevant sections of the new criminal code BNS. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A fair and time-bound investigation must be conducted to ensure accountability and justice in the case, said the NCW. The action taken report and FIR in the case should be submitted to the commission in two days, the panel said in its direction to the police. Location : Maharashtra, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 21:20 IST Months After RG Kar Horror, Junior Doctor Raped By Colleague At Gwalior Hostel, Accused Arrested Published By : PTI Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 12:27 IST Gwalior Doctor Rape: The incident came months after a junior doctor was raped and murdered in Kolkata's state-run RG Medical College and Hospital. Representative image of Madhya Pradesh Police Gwalior Doctor Rape: A 25-year-old junior doctor has allegedly been raped by her colleague at an abandoned hostel in a government-run medical college in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior city, police said. The alleged incident took place on Sunday and the accused, also aged 25, was later arrested, the police said on Monday. related stories The victim was to appear for an exam and was staying in the girls hostel of the Gajraraja Medical College, City Superintendent of Police Ashok Jadon said. The accused, also a junior doctor who studied with the victim, called her to meet at an old hostel for boys, which is now lying abandoned, he said. When the woman reached the uninhabited facility, the accused threatened her and raped her, the official said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The victim later lodged a complaint at Kampu police station here following which the accused was arrested and booked under relevant legal provisions, the police said. Further investigation was underway into the incident, they added. Location : Gwalior, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 11:11 IST Mumbai: Jewellery Chain Torres Dupes Thousands Of Investors In Ponzi Scheme, Top Executives Booked Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 21:08 IST Police have registered a case and named the holding firm Platinum Hern Private Limited, its two directors, CEO, general manager and a store in-charge as accused. Torres Jewellery has showrooms across Mumbai in areas such as Grant Road, Navi-Mumbai, Kalyan and Mira Road. (Image: X) Thousands of investors were left in the lurch after a jewellery chain with several stores in Mumbai allegedly duped them through a Ponzi scheme promising high returns. The firm, Torres, has blamed its CEO and other staff members, alleging that they conned customers through a fraudulent scheme and also robbed and vandalised stores part of the chain. related stories The matter came into limelight on January 6, when investors had gathered around the brands stores in Dadar and Navi Mumbais Sanpada and panicked to see the shops shut without any prior notice, as reported by Lokmat Times. Torres Jewellery has showrooms across Mumbai in areas such as Grant Road, Navi-Mumbai, Kalyan and Mira Road. Modus-Operandi The scamsters lured investors by floating a fake scheme envisaging purchase of moissanite stones and gems with an assured 11 percent weekly cashback on the purchase value for the next one year (52 weeks) which translated into a whopping 400 percent profit amounting Rs.5.72 lakh in a year. Under this scheme, a customer who invested Rs 1 lakh would get a pendant with a moissanite stone worth Rs 10,000. These stones, the customers have now realised, were fake. Customers said they got some payouts over the past year, but they stopped about two months back. People had invested lakhs of rupees in schemes promising returns, according to the news outlet. The company initially disbursed the instalments of the scheme. However, it failed to disburse instalments in the last two weeks, forcing investors to gather outside the Torres office in Dadar. Police File Complaint The duped investors approached the Shivaji Park police station to register an FIR, demanding the return of the principal amount, which they had invested trusting the famous jewellery brand. Police have registered a case and named the holding firm Platinum Hern Private Limited, its two directors, CEO, general manager and a store in-charge as accused. In a social media post, Torres Jewellery blamed its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Tausif Reyaz, for running a fraudulent scheme. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jewellery store TORRES (@torres.officiial) Earlier, we learned that they organized a fraudulent scheme, and they also systematically appropriated the companys money for many months," the post said. First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:05 IST Nashik And Malegaon In Karnataka? Bengaluru Project Report Gets Mocked For 'Copy-Paste Job' Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:12 IST The BBMP spent Rs 9.5 crore on its tunnel road Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by New Delhi-based Rodic Consultants Private Limited. Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar with CM Siddaramaiah. (Image: PTI) The Karnataka government is facing an embarrassing situation with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumars ambitious tunnel road projects detailed project report coming under the scanner for copy-paste job" from a Maharashtra project. The BBMP spent Rs 9.5 crore on its tunnel road Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by New Delhi-based Rodic Consultants Private Limited. DPRs executive summary on Page 29 details traffic volumes at different cordon points but it mentions cities and towns in Maharashtra like Malegaon and Nashik. related stories top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The project proposed a construction of an underground tunnel from Hebbal Esteem Mall Junction to Silk Board junction in Bengaluru and not Maharashtra. The report was already under the scanner after it was prepared at a break neck speed of three months. The 18-km tunnel road project is estimated to cost Rs 14,981.39 crore and the BBMP is already scouting for loan from financial institutions. Activist Rajkumar Dugar took to X to lash out at the Karnataka government. Meticulous planning for TRP Tunnel Road Project.. Should we cry or laugh? DK Shivakumar, who made and vetted this DPR, Sir," asked Dugar in a post on X. First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:12 IST Ceiling Shaking, Panic: Social Media Users Share Videos As Earthquake Tremors Felt In Delhi-NCR Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 14:17 IST A magnitude of 7.1 magnitude struck Tibet near the Nepalese border on Tuesday, killing 32 people. Tremors were felt in several parts of India, including the Delhi-NCR region. Several people shared videos showing the impact of the tremors caused by the Tibet earthquake. (Photo: X) An earthquake of magnitude 7.1 struck Tibet near the Nepalese border in the early hours of Tuesday, tremors of which were felt in several parts of India, including Delhi-NCR, Bihar and Assam. At least 95 people were killed due to the earthquake in the Tibet-Nepal border region, while 130 people were injured, according to Chinas state-run media Xinhua news agency, while several buildings collapsed near Dingri county and its surrounding areas as they experienced strong tremors. Over 1,000 houses have sustained varying degrees of damage, Chinese media reports said. related stories While earthquakes are common in the region, Tuesdays quake was the most powerful recorded within a 200-kilometre radius in the last five years, the China Earthquake Networks Centre said. The high-altitude county in the Tibet region is home to around 62,000 people. Dramatic visuals surfaced on social media platform X from different parts of India where houses swayed violently due to the impact of the tremors and people were seen leaving their houses and apartments. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), Tibets Xizang was hit by three earthquakes. The first tremor of magnitude 4.2 hit the area at 5:41 am. The second quake of 7.1 hit Tibets Xizang at 6:35 am. Another tremor of magnitude 4.7 struck Xizang at 7:02 am. A fourth tremor of magnitude 4.9 was reported at 7:07 am. In several parts of Bihar, including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, Munger, Araria, Sitamarhi, Gopalganj, Vaishali, Nawada, and Nalanda, the tremors were felt for around 30 seconds, sources told News18. A magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck Tibets second-largest city on Tuesday morning, Reuters reported citing the China Earthquake Networks Centre. Tremors were felt as far away as Nepals capital Kathmandu some 400 km away, as people fled their homes. Netizens Share Dramatic Visuals On Social Media As the tremors were felt in several parts of India, people took to social media to share their experiences in dealing with the quake and the aftershocks. Dinesh Kumar Singh, a resident of Sheohar district in Bihar, described chaotic scenes as chairs and fans started shaking and people rushed out of their houses. #WATCH | Earthquake tremors felt in Bihars Sheohar as an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter Scale hit 93 km North East of Lobuche, Nepal at 06:35:16 IST today pic.twitter.com/D3LLphpHkU ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 #WATCH | Kathmandu | An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter Scale hit 93 km North East of Lobuche, Nepal at 06:35:16 IST today: USGS Earthquakes pic.twitter.com/MnRKkH9wuR ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Wow! Check out this time clip from a Khumjung, #Nepal Live Cam moments ago as a 7.0 #Earthquake hits the area. #NepalEarthquake (watch the pool ) pic.twitter.com/K0PHlQ1qvu LiveCamChaser (@LiveCamChaser) January 7, 2025 BREAKINGAn #Earthquake with the magnitude of 6.4 has hit #Nepal earlier today morning . People came out of their homes. Tremors also felt in #Bihar. pic.twitter.com/BI9eZ5f7s9 Amitabh Chaudhary (@MithilaWaala) January 7, 2025 Nepal frequently experiences seismic activity due to its position along the Himalayan fault line, a tectonically active region. In 2015, a magnitude 7.8 tremor struck near Kathmandu in neighbouring Nepal, killing about 9,000 people and injuring thousands in that countrys worst earthquake. Delhi-NCR is also known to be an earthquake-prone area due to high seismic activity. It is unique in its placement that it trembles every three to four months as well as whenever there is an earthquake in the Himalayan region. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all First Published: January 07, 2025, 07:33 IST Prashant Kishor's Health Deteriorates As Hunger Strike Enters Day 6 Amid BPSC Exam Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 13:23 IST BPSC Exam Row: Jan Suraj Party chief Prashant Kishor's health deteriorated as his fast-unto-death protest entered day six amid growing health concerns. Jan Suraaj Chief Prashant Kishor | Image/X Jan Suraj Party chief Prashant Kishors health deteriorated on Tuesday morning as he continued his fast-unto-death protest demanding the cancellation of a Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam amid allegations of a paper leak. It comes a day after he was detained illegal fast unto death" protest at Patnas Gandhi Maidan and was later released from police custody on a Patna Civil Court order. He is now protesting at his residence in Patna amid health concerns. related stories According to party sources, members of Jan Suraaj requested Kishor to visit a hospital amid growing concerns about his health conditions. A medical team and an ambulance were also spotted at his residence. He agreed to visit the Medanta Hospital, they added. A doctor said that the former poll strategist would be tested for several health concerns, including dehydration, a throat infection, gastric issues and weakness, according to reports. The police on Monday forcibly removed" Kishor and his supporters from the protest site at Patnas Gandhi Maidan after an FIR was registered against him and 150 others by the district administration who alleged that the protest at the site was illegal". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After securing unconditional bail, Kishor revealed that initially, he refused to secure his release, alleging that the bail conditions were unreasonable". I was taken to the court and I was granted bail but in the bail order it was mentioned that I should not do any wrongdoings, so I rejected it and I accepted to go to jail," he said. Later, the Patna Civil Court ordered unconditional bail for the Jan Suraaj founder. First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:18 IST Rescue Teams Intensify Search For Trapped Miners In Assams Dima Hasao Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:08 IST According to employees of the quarry, there were around 15 workers inside the mine, though the authorities did not confirm the number. Efforts underway to rescue the labourers trapped inside a coal mine, in Dima Hasao district, Assam (PTI) A team of navy, army, NDRF and SDRF personnel intensified their efforts to rescue the nine workers, trapped inside a mine in the Assam Coal Quarry in Dima Hasao for the second day on Tuesday. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the mine "appears to be illegal", and that the police have arrested one person in connection with the incident. related stories Meanwhile, Dima Hasao SP Mayank Kumar Jha denied some media reports that claimed three of the trapped workers were feared dead". He said no bodies have yet been found and operations were underway to rescue the miners. The labourers were on Monday trapped inside the coal mine situated in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso, after a sudden gush of water flooded the site. According to employees of the quarry, there were around 15 workers inside the mine, though the authorities did not confirm the number. Sarma said he has spoken to Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy, who has assured him that a team from Coal India will join the rescue operations from Wednesday. He said navy divers have been requisitioned to assist local authorities in rescuing the labourers, as the water level inside the quarry has risen to nearly 100 feet. The divers flew in from Visakhapatnam and conducted a recce, before entering the quarry. The divers reached the surface, but could not find any person or bodies except for a few shoes and sandals. It is, therefore, presumed that the labourers could have entered the tunnels inside the quarry," the CM said. Special Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, who is supervising the rescue operations at the site, told reporters that specialised divers from the navy, army, NDRF and SDRF are alternately going inside the quarry to conduct rescue operations, but no one has been spotted so far. The navy personnel have deep diving equipment with them and we have requisitioned more equipment to help in the operations," Singh said. The quarry is about 340 feet deep and we are primarily concentrating on rescuing the workers on the directions of the chief minister, who is personally monitoring the entire operation", he said. The joint rescue efforts will continue throughout the night along with the dewatering of the mine, Singh said. Sarma had earlier in the day said a person has been arrested after the workers were trapped inside the coal mine, which "appears to be illegal". He also said a case was registered in connection with the incident. The police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS, r/w Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to investigate the incident. Prima facie, it appears to be an illegal mine. One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case," the chief minister had posted on X. Rescue operations have been continuing since Monday, but no worker has been brought out of the quarry so far, a district official said. From the NDRF, a 35-member team, led by Commandant HPS Kandari, is conducting rescue operations at the site, he said. Army personnel have been engaged to rescue the labourers and a relief task force comprising specialists such as divers and sappers, equipped with essential tools, reached the site in Umrangso, a defence spokesperson said. The rescue task force of the Army and Assam Rifles, comprising divers and engineers, have made two diving attempts inside the mine, he said. Engineers of the Indian Army are currently assisting the civil administration in removing water from the mine, and have also made provision of adequate lighting to illuminate the site enabling continuance of operations at night," the spokesperson added. Sarma thanked the army for extending their help in the rescue operations. Much gratitude for this quick response. We are deploying all possible efforts to ensure the safe return of our miners," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The chief minister also listed the names of the trapped labourers Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. Eyewitness accounts and initial assessments suggest that the flooding occurred unexpectedly, leaving the workers unable to escape from the mine. Location : Dima Hasao, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 23:08 IST Supreme Court Grants Interim Bail To Rape Convict Asaram Bapu, Says He Can't Meet Followers Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 13:29 IST The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to self-styled 'godman' Asaram Bapu, who has been convicted in a 2013 rape case. Self-styled 'godman' Asaram Bapu | File Image The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu till March 31 on medical grounds, subject to certain conditions, including a restriction on meeting his followers while outside jail. Asaram was arrested by Jodhpur Police on August 31, 2013, in a rape case and has been in jail since then. A teenage girl had accused him of sexual assault at his ashram in Manai village near Jodhpur. The girl belonging to Shahjahanpur in Uttar Pradesh was a student at the ashram. related stories The godman has been a heart patient and has previously suffered a heart attack, according to medical reports. The Supreme Court has directed that law enforcement officials be deployed during the period of his bail to ensure supervision. The Supreme Courts order comes six days after Asaram, whose real name is Asumal Sirumalani Harpalani, returned to Rajasthans Jodhpur jail after being released on a 17-day parole. A Jodhpur court in April 2018 sentenced Asaram Bapu to life in prison after finding him guilty of raping a minor in his ashram in 2013. He was also convicted by a Gujarat court in January 2023 for raping a Surat-based woman at an ashram in 2013. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Last year, the top court had sought a reply from the Gujarat government on a plea filed by Asaram seeking suspension of the life sentence imposed on him by a trial court in the 2013 rape case. In August last year, the Gujarat High Court rejected his petition seeking suspension of a life sentence in the case by a Gandhinagar court in 2023. First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:56 IST Tensions Erupt As BSF, Border Guards Bangladesh Clash Over Barbed Wire Fence Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 19:37 IST The situation became tense after the BSF started erecting the barbed wire fence along India-Bangladesh border to increase security. Tensions erupt in Maldah surrounding the installation of barbed wire fencing on the India-Bangladesh border. (Image: News18) Amid rising concerns regarding infiltration, tensions erupted between the Border Security Forces (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) over the installation of barbed wire fencing on the India-Bangladesh border in Malda. According to reports, the Public Works Department and the BSF were working on erecting barbed wire fences in the Shukdevpur area to prevent the influx of people from the border areas. related stories This incident came to light on Tuesday. It has been learnt that the situation became tense after the BSF started erecting the barbed wire fence along the India-Bangladesh border to increase security. But the BGB objected to the fencing. The work was then temporarily stopped. Following this, the locals also gathered on both sides of the border and started raising slogans. However, the situation was later brought in control by the forces. According to Bengali news site, Sambad Pratidin, it was reported that the BGB alleged that the area where the fencing work was being done was within Bangladesh territory. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On Tuesday morning, a flag meeting was held between the BSF and BGB over the situation where BSF showed a map and said that the area was part of Indian territory. Finally, BGB went back. The work of erecting a barbed wire fence has started again this morning. Malda District Magistrate Nitin Singhania informed that the situation is normal now and the BSF is keeping a watch on the border area. On the other hand, the district police is also monitoring the situation. Police have been deployed in the area. Location : Maldah, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:22 IST The 155th Separate Mechanized Brigade, also known by the nickname Anne of Kyiv, currently fulfills certain tasks in full force, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) told Interfax-Ukraine. "This is a newly formed brigade that received training on the territory of France and it is acquiring capabilities during hostilities on its own brigade line of defense on the Pokrovsk axis," it said. The AFU also said that even before "some organizational problems of the 155th Separate Mechanized Brigade became known to the media, the AFU command had started a probe into the situation, and particularly into a significant number of desertion cases." Measures are being taken to improve discipline and psychological state of servicemen, the General Staff said. "This had allowed to reduce the number of desertion cases. The units of the brigade currently receive additional equipment, and the brigade has been strengthened with drone units," the AFU said. Thief Steals Kiss From Woman After Finding No Valuables In Mumbai Flat Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:46 IST As per the 38-year-old woman, the thief broke into the house when she was all alone on January 3 and locked the main door from inside. As per the woman, the thief barged into the flat and locked the door from inside. An attempted theft turned awry wrong when the thief decided to steal a kiss from the owner of the house after failing to find any valuables. The incident occurred when a thief broke into a flat in the Malad area of Mumbai and kissed the woman after not finding anything worthy of stealing, as reported by India Today. related stories Police Arrest Accused For Robbery And Molestation Later, the police arrested the accused on charges of attempted robbery and molestation. The 38-year-old woman claimed that on January 3 she was all alone at her home when the robber forced himself inside the flat and locked the door from inside. He then covered the womans mouth and asked her to hand over all the valuables, which included cash, mobile phones, and ATM cards. The woman then explained to the robber that she did not have any such items after which the thief unexpectedly kissed her and ran away. Later, the woman went to Kurar Police Station where the police registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The same evening police arrested the accused who lived in the same locality. According to the police officials, the man did not have any prior criminal record. He was living with his family and was currently jobless. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to an officer, an investigation has been going on to find more details regarding the case. First Published: January 07, 2025, 16:46 IST Time To Nab Criminals Who Flee Abroad: Amit Shah Launches Bharatpol To Aid Probe Agencies Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 12:13 IST The Union Home Minister said with the help of BHARATPOL, police will be able to connect itself with INTERPOL and speed up the investigation Union Home Minister Amit Shah speaks at BHARATPOL launch event. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a new portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), BHARATPOL, on the lines of the INTERPOL. Shah said the move will help nab criminals who flee abroad. Addressing the launching ceremony of #BHARATPOL, a global interface to curb borderless crimes.https://t.co/6WuoOwdzhY Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 7, 2025 related stories The new portal will aid all probe agencies in addressing crimes involving border areas and other nations. He said, This is the beginning of taking our countrys international investigation into a new era. With the help of BHARATPOL, police will be able to connect itself with Interpol very easily and speed up the investigation." Our new criminal law and its provision of trial in abstention will ensure they are tried in Indian courts. Once they are convicted by Indian court. It will be easier to get them deported or extradited," he added. All you need to know about BHARATPOL 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 countrys 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. 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. and faster access to international assistance, it will strengthen Indias efforts in combating transnational crimes," the statement said. 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. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all During the function, Shah will present Police Medals to 35 CBI officers and officials, who have been awarded the Presidents Police Medals for Distinguished Service and the Union Home Ministers Medal for Excellence in Investigation. (With PTI inputs) First Published: January 07, 2025, 11:44 IST 'Hum Ho Na Ho...': CEC Rajiv Kumar's 'Shayaris' Go Viral Amid Delhi Election Dates Announcement | Video Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Sumedha Kirti Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:22 IST Delhi Elections 2025: What makes Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar's media interaction different is his style of addressing using 'shayari' or Urdu poetry. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar (Image: ANI) Before every elections, the Election Commission of India holds a press conference to inform the dates for voting and counting of votes. This is the process that all election commissioners follow, irrespective of annoucement for state or general elections. However, what makes Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumars media interaction different is his style of addressing using shayari or Urdu poetry. The announcement for 2025 Delhi election dates was no different. While responding to those questioning EVMs and the electoral process, Kumar on Tuesday said: Sab sawaal ki ehmiyat rakhte hain, jawab toh banta hai. Aadatan qalam-band jawab dete rahe, aaj roobaru bhi banta hai. Kya pata kal ho na ho, aaj jawab toh banta hai." related stories This loosely translates to: All questions are important. Hence, we must answer them. We usually have a habit of replying in writing but we must respond face-to-face today. We never know if tomorrow comes or not, hence replying to questions today is important. The second shayari came while Kumar was talking about political leaders who come out with allegations of ballot rigging after election results. Kar na sakein ikraar toh koi baat nahi, meri wafa ka unko aitbaar toh hai. Shikayat bhale hi unki majboori ho, magar sunna, sehna, suljhana humari aadat toh hai." This poetry loosely translates to: Its alright even if they dont agree. They still have faith in my loyalty. May be complaining is a compulsion for them. But its our habit to listen, bear and sort things out. Reciting his third shayari on those doubting the work of Election Commission, Rajiv Kumar said, Aaropon aur ilzamaat ka daur chale, koi gila nahi. Jhooth ke gubbaron ko bulandi mile, koi shikwa nahi. Har parinaam mein pramaand dete hain par woh bina saboot shakk ki nayi duniya raunak karte hain. Aur shakk ka ilaaj toh haqeem luqman ke paas bhi nahi." The above poetry loosely translates to: I have no complaints in this era of blame game and allegations, neither will I object to balloons of lies flying high. We keep giving proof on every result day but they keep lighting a new world of doubts without any evidence. And theres no cure for doubts neither a wise man can help nor a physician. All the concerns raised by Congress party have been answered by CEC Rajiv Kumar through his shayaris. 3 shayari for all the questions and accountability done! pic.twitter.com/hpevSWb3w7 Venisha G Kiba (@KibaVenisha) January 7, 2025 The poetries of CEC Rajiv often go viral. Earlier, his impromptu poetry during the Lok Sabha Election 2024 schedule announcement was widely circulated on social media. "EVM shayari" by the Chief Election Commissioner to those who do EVM propaganda every time pic.twitter.com/QvVTn33ixc Keh Ke Peheno (@coolfunnytshirt) March 16, 2024 Jhooth ke bazaar mei raunak toh bohot hai, goya bul bule jaisi hi turant hi phat jati hai, pakad bhi loge toh kya hasil hoga sivaye dokhe ke. (In the market of lies, there is much splendor, as if it were a bubble that bursts immediately, and if you try to catch it, what will you gain except deceit.)" top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Similarly, during the announcement of voting dates for Jammu and Kashmir (a state that has seen unrest on multiple occasions in the past), Kumar had recited: Lambi kataaron mein hai badalte surat-e-haal ki kahani, roshan umeedein karengi goya apne taqdeeron ki bayani. Jumooriyat ke jashn mein aapki shirqat, duniya dekhegi naapaak iradon ke shiqast ki kahani." His poetry translates to: The story of the changing circumstances is in long lines. The bright hopes will narrate its tale. With your participation in the celebration of democracy, the world will see the story of defeat of evil intentions. First Published: January 07, 2025, 15:05 IST Wife Runs Away With Beggar, Leaves Behind Husband And Six Children In UP Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 12:04 IST According to the husband, the beggar used to visit their neighbourhood often and would sometimes even chat with his wife Representative image of UP Police A man filed a police complaint after his 36-year-old wife allegedly eloped with a beggar leaving behind him and their six children in the Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh. The police filed the complaint of the 45-year-old husband, identified as Raju, under Section 87 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita which is related to the abduction of a woman, NDTV reported. related stories A case has been registered by the police and they are searching for the accused. Raju, in his complaint, stated that he lives in the Harpalpur area of Hardoi along with his wife Rajeshwari and their children. He further added that the 45-year-old beggar, Nanhe Pandit, would at times beg in their neighbourhood and would often chat with his wife. Narrating his ordeal, the husband claimed that later the two also started speaking over the phone. Around 2 pm on January 3, my wife Rajeshwari told our daughter Khushboo that she was going to the market to buy clothes and vegetables. When she did not return, I looked for her everywhere, but could not find her. My wife left home with the money I made by selling a buffalo. I suspect that Nanhe Pandit has taken her with him," said Raju in his complaint. Police Register FIR Under Section 87 Of BNS. Heres What It Says The police registered the FIR under Section 87 of BNS and are searching for Nanhe Pandit. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Whoever kidnaps or abducts any woman with the intent that she may be compelled, or knowing it to be likely that she will be compelled, to marry any person against her will, or in order that she may be forced or seduced to illicit intercourse, or knowing it to be likely that she will be forced or seduced to illicit intercourse, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine," states Section 87 of BNS. Whoever, by means of criminal intimidation as defined in this Sanhita or of abuse of authority or any other method of compulsion, induces any woman to go from any place with intent that she may be, or knowing that it is likely that she will be, forced or seduced to illicit intercourse with another person shall also be punishable as aforesaid," it further adds. Location : Hardoi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:04 IST Kareena Kapoors $4,500 Ralph Lauren Dress Is the Talk of 2025 Already Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 11:53 IST Kareena Kapoor rang in 2025 in Switzerland, dazzling in a gold Ralph Lauren dress that redefined New Years Eve fashion goals. Kareena Kapoor Rings in 2025 in a Dress That Shines Brighter Than Fireworks Kareena Kapoor Khan welcomed the New Year in unparalleled style, celebrating in the idyllic town of Gstaad, Switzerland. Joined by her husband, Saif Ali Khan, and their sons, Taimur and Jeh, Kareenas holiday getaway was the epitome of luxury and family fun. Over the weekend, the 44-year-old actress treated fans to glimpses of her fabulous vacation on Instagram. But what truly stole the show was her dazzling gold-toned metallic dress that screamed red-carpet glamour. Captioning her post, Headed home with this mood for 2025," Kareena shared a series of photos featuring her and her family enjoying the scenic Swiss Alps. related stories View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kareena Kapoor Khan (@kareenakapoorkhan) Her outfit, a creation by Ralph Lauren, was nothing short of a masterpiece. The midi dress featured a round neckline, a sleeveless silhouette, and a fitted waistline that flattered her figure. The pleated A-line skirt with a mid-length hem added a touch of elegance, while the metallic threading and lurex detailing gave it a bold, high-fashion edge. The price? A jaw-dropping $4,568 (approximately 3,93,000) enough to make even the most seasoned fashionistas pause. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Kareena took her look to the next level with diamond jewelry, metallic red Christian Louboutin pumps, and a chic black clutch with golden fringe accents. Her makeup was just as striking, with shimmering eyeshadow, bold brows, flushed cheeks, and a glowing highlighter perfectly complementing her nude lips. Letting her hair flow naturally in a sleek middle part, she embodied effortless sophistication. As always, Kareena Kapoor proved why she remains a true fashion icon, giving us all a dose of inspiration to start 2025 in style. First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:30 IST Keerthy Sureshs First Post-Wedding Trip: A Tropical Escape to Phuket Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 10:00 IST Keerthy Sureshs post-wedding escape to Phuket offers dreamy beach vibes, crystal-clear waters, and a perfect tropical travel guide. Keerthy Suresh After tying the knot with her longtime love Antony Thattil in December, actress Keerthy Suresh jetted off to Thailand for her first trip as a newlywed. The couple embraced the serene beauty of Phuket, soaking up the sun, lounging on pristine beaches, and diving into the islands crystal-clear waters. Keerthys dreamy tropical getaway is the ultimate inspiration for your next beach holiday. If Phuket is on your travel bucket list, here are some must-visit spots to make your trip unforgettable: related stories 1. Phuket Old Town Skip the bustling streets of Patong and venture into the charming Phuket Old Town. This area boasts vibrant colonial-style architecture, cozy boutiques, and an authentic taste of Phukets rich history and culture. 2. Phi Phi Islands Famous worldwide for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Phi Phi Islands are a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The serene beauty of these islands promises an experience youll treasure forever. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keerthy Suresh (@keerthysureshofficial) 3. Big Buddha Nicknamed Happiness on Top of Nagakerd Mountain," the iconic Big Buddha is a 45-meter-tall white marble statue offering panoramic views of Phuket. A visit here is worth the trek under the sun, rewarding you with unparalleled sights and serenity. 4. Khao Khad Viewpoint Known for its striking design and historical significance, the Khao Khad Viewpoint is a must-see attraction in Phuket. Its majestic architecture and stunning views make it a favorite among visitors. 5. Karon Beach top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This long, picturesque bay on Phukets western coast is renowned for its soft sands and captivating blue waters. While its perfect for lounging, Karon Beach also offers plenty of activities, from exploring the local dining scene to visiting the nearby Wat Suwan Khirikhet temple. Keerthy Sureshs idyllic Phuket escape sets the stage for the perfect post-wedding holidayor any tropical adventure youre dreaming of. First Published: January 07, 2025, 10:00 IST Planning For A Trip To London? Here Are 9 Safety Measures You Should Take Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 18:08 IST Influencer Victoria Way shared safety tips from locals that can help tourists steer clear of pickpockets and scams during their London trip. Staying vigilant and avoiding crowds can help tourists steer clear from pickpockets and scams. London is home to all ten of the UKs pickpocketing hotspots, new research has revealed. The study, conducted by licensing company Get Licensed using data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), highlights the risks faced by visitors and residents in the bustling capital. While London is celebrated for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and cultural vibrancy, its popularity also makes it a prime target for pickpockets. Busy areas such as public transport hubs, tourist attractions, and crowded streets provide ample opportunities for thieves to strike. To help visitors navigate London safely, a travel safety expert on TikTok has shared valuable advice. Popular TikToker Victorias Way uploaded a video on her Instagram handle with her best safety advice for London, taken directly from the people who live there. She captioned the video with: London is one of my favourite cities, but even here, you need to stay alert. Im sharing some tips that the locals taught me to stay safe and enjoy the city." related stories What Kind Of Risks Can Be There With Tourists? Tourists are always the easy targets since they frequently carry valuable stuff. In order to defraud you of your money, scammers may employ deceptive sales tactics, false narratives, or distraction strategies. There can be scams like Bottleneck Scams, Cutting Your Bags, Distraction Scams, Card Skimming Scams, Taxi Scams, and many more. The first step in avoiding these hazards is being aware of them. London Safety Tips From The Locals top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 1. Store your valuables and bag beneath your jacket in front of you. 2. Avoid crowds: Pickpockets frequently target crowded places like marketplaces, subways, and well-known tourist destinations. 3. Never play games like find the ball" since they are scams and you will always lose. 4. Be cautious while crossing. Because traffic travels on the left, always glance right first. 5. Refrain from using the red phone booths. They are filthy and frequently utilized by con artists. 6. To prevent sitting on unclean surfaces, place newspapers on bus seats for hygienic reasons. 7. While waiting, place newspapers on benches or bus seats to avoid coming into contact with unclean surfaces. 8. Bring your own charger and avoid using charging stations on public transportation. 9. Watch out for approaching motorcyclists and cyclists, as they may steal your possessions as they pass. With countless chances for exploration and adventure, London is a vibrant and alluring city. You may prevent dangers and concentrate on taking advantage of everything the city has to offer by heeding the TikTokers helpful safety advice. To make sure your trip is unforgettable for all the right reasons, a little planning and attention to detail goes along well. So protect your belongings, remain watchful, and prepare to create lifelong experiences in one of the most famous cities in the world. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 18:08 IST Allu Arjun Finally Visits Injured Boy At Hyderabad Hospital A Month After Pushpa 2 Stampede Published By : IANS Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 11:39 IST A woman, Revathi was killed and her son Sri Tej was critically injured in the stampede at the theatre on December 4 during the premier show of Pushpa 2. Allu Arjun was granted regular bail by the Nampally court in Hyderabad. Tollywood actor Allu Arjun on Tuesday visited KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad to meet the eight-year-old boy who was injured in the stampede during the premier show of Pushpa 2: The Rule at Sandhya Theatre last month. Amid tight security by the police, the actor reached the hospital in the morning and spent about half an hour. He was accompanied by Telangana State Film Development Corporation Chairman Dil Raju. The actor enquired from doctors about the condition of SriTej, met his father and assured him of all support. related stories Allu Arjun had planned to visit the hospital on January 5 after reporting at Chikkadpally Police Station as per the condition laid down by a city court while granting him regular bail. However, he had to drop his plans after Ramgopalpet Police Station issued a notice to him advising him to reconsider his visit. The police had advised Allu Arjun to maintain his confidentiality to prevent any gathering of public/media at the premises which could disturb the peaceful environs of the hospital. Over a month after the theatre stampede, actor @alluarjun visits 8-year-old Sritej who was injured in the stampede and lost his mother. pic.twitter.com/64ykIyuX5m Akshita Nandagopal (@Akshita_N) January 7, 2025 The actor was warned that in case of a lack of cooperation from his side, he would be held solely responsible for any negative consequences of his visit to the hospital. The police on January 6 issued another notice to him to keep his visit confidential so that public order could be maintained in and around the hospital. The police also offered to make necessary arrangements for his visit. A woman, Revathi was killed and her son Sri Tej was critically injured in the stampede at the theatre on December 4 during the premier show attended by Allu Arjun. The police had claimed that Allu Arjun visited the theatre without permission and conducted a roadshow which led to the tragedy. Allu Arjun was arrested on December 13 in the case. He was granted interim bail by the High Court the same day. Nampally Court last week granted the actor regular bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the investigation and report to the concerned police station every Sunday. The actor had come under criticism from various quarters for not consoling the family of the deceased or visiting the injured boy at the hospital. The actors father and producer Allu Arvind visited the hospital twice. During his last visit on December 25, he presented a cheque of Rs 2 crore to the victims family. While Allu Arjun has given Rs 1 crore, Mythri Movies, the producers of the movie have extended assistance of Rs 50 lakh. The films director Sukumar has also given Rs 50 lakh to the family. First Published: January 07, 2025, 11:39 IST Mira Rajput's Maldives Trip Was A 'Food Heaven', Pictures Inside Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 13:51 IST Mira Rajput has posted an array of photos from her time in Maldives. We also get a glimpse of her food shenanigans. Mira Rajput said her Maldives trip was an absolute food heaven. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Shahid Kapoors doting wife, Mira Rajput Kapoor is a true blue travel enthusiast. But guess what accompanies her on her adventures? Undoubtedly, scrumptious food. The celebrity influencer keeps inspiring everyone with her lively updates on social media. Currently, she is spending a lovely time with her family on a beach vacation in the Maldives and shared the ultimate list of must-try dishes she ate over there. Taking to Instagram, Mira Rajput Kapoor dropped a carousel featuring her delicious food moments during her trip to the Maldives. The post began with a charming selfie of her, in which she was seen lounging on a comfy couch wearing a grey-hued bathrobe. The loose and open strands of her hair also left wet imprints on the cushion, revealing that she must have taken the picture right after coming out from a refreshing shower. Additionally, she flaunted her no makeup and a radiant glow on her face was visible, proving how relaxing the trip was. related stories Following the photo, Mira showed what made her feel heavenly" on her trip to Maldives and dropped a series of pictures of all the dishes she relished there. She also gave a shoutout to Patina Maldives, a luxury island resort destination in the Maldives, where she stayed with her family. The caption alongside Miras post read, Swipe for my food diary by the beach. You all know Im a vegetarian and my trip to @patinamaldives was absolute food heaven. Not a dish disappointed. The enormous breakfast spread, several restaurants with a menu that left us spoilt for choice as veggies and fun food trucks made the trip one of my favourites." However, the mother of two also revealed the dish that the entire family relished almost daily. She continued in the caption, What you cant see is the burger we had every day from the Go-go Burger food truck & the Baos from Tum Tum (they were eaten before I could take a picture)." The first food slide in Miras carousel featured a pink-hued coffee mug with a heart made on it. The mug was kept on an aesthetically decorated table, and in the background, we can spot a plate full of croissants and a small glass of what looked like beetroot juice. Talking about the coffee, she revealed, The coffee that was so good, we brought the beans back home." Next was a Congee for breakfast from the Asian spread, which according to Mira, was wholesome and warming", then a frame featuring pool side grub". It included a few slices of half-eaten Pizza kept on a plate, which made the celebrity wife say, The dough was so good I ate the kids pizza sides," and Mattar Paneer, chapatis, french fries and an assortment of chutneys were also on the same table. The fourth food slide featured a unique dish along with which Mira mentioned, My kids call it cheese samosa but this was Rokakat at Arabesque." The post also included Hot and Sour soup for the soul and the stickiest crispy eggplant at Wok Society, followed by a Maldivian local dish which Mira had every morning and Pumpkin Mas Huni with yam chips, an Oil & Salt Bar which served porcini infused olive oil, a breakfast plate for veggies, Spa Day spread, roasted Eggplant with chimichurri and tahini sauce at Portico, a pot of Oolong and pillowy soft" labneh. The seventh food slide showed a square-shaped creamy mushroom crepe. Talking about this, Mira said, It was with dosa batter that Chef Mohit improvised because he said You shouldnt eat the same breakfast everyday on holiday. Yum!" After all those foodie glimpses, we must say that Miras trip to the Maldives was indeed a foodilicious one. First Published: January 07, 2025, 13:00 IST FACT CHECK: Shah Rukh Khan's Wife Gauri Khan Did Not Convert To Islam In Mecca; Viral Pics Are Fake Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:53 IST With the viral picture, many also claimed that Shah Rukh Khan and family also welcomed new year in Mecca. Shah Rukh Khan's viral photo is AI-generated. (Picture Credits: X) A photo of Shah Rukh Khan has surfaced on social media in which the Bollywood superstar is seen offering prayers at Mecca with his wife Gauri Khan and their elder son, Aryan Khan. In the picture, Gauri is seen wearing a black kurti and a grey hijab. On the other hand, King Khan looks sombre in a white kurta. Aryan can also be seen standing behind them. With the viral picture, many claimed that SRK and his family welcomed the new year in Mecca. Not just this, some even claimed that the actors wife, Gauri has also converted to Islam. However, the truth behind the viral photo is now out. related stories As reported by NDTV, the viral picture of the Khan family at the Mecca is fake. Reportedly, it has been created using the Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. For the unversed, Shah Rukh Khan is a Muslim, whereas Gauri was born in a Punjabi Hindu family. Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh Khan tied the knot in 1991. They have three children Aryan, Suhana Khan, and AbRam Khan. In 2005, Gauri appeared on Koffee With Karan when she opened up about her religious identity after marriage and said, There is a balance. I respect Shah Rukhs religion, but that doesnt mean I would convert and become a Muslim. I dont believe in that. Everyone is an individual and follows their religion. Of course, there should be mutual respect. Shah Rukh would never disrespect my religion, and I wouldnt disrespect his." Meanwhile, on the work front, Shah Rukh Khan will soon be seen in King. The film will also star his daughter Suhana Khan in the lead. Besides this, Munjya star Abhay Verma is also likely to be a part of this project. No detail about the films plot or its release date has been revealed as of now. First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:53 IST Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua On Tuesday, January 7, the Armed Forces of Ukraine attacked one of the enemy's command posts located on Russian territory, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "The Armed Forces of Ukraine have launched a precision strike on the command post of the 810th separate Marine brigade of the armed forces of the Russian Federation in the area of the village of Belaya (Kursk region)," the Telegram channel says. It is noted that such fire damage is an integral part of the combat operations of units of the Ukrainian Defense Forces that are fighting on the territory of the Russian Federation. "The Armed Forces of Ukraine will use all available means to destroy the armed formations of the Russian Federation that threaten the security of Ukrainian citizens," the General Staff stressed. Sonu Sood Fans Create A 390-Foot Cutout Ahead Of Fateh's Release Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 16:55 IST Sonu Soods fans in Sholapur, Maharashtra, made a larger-than-life 390-food cutout featuring his character in Fateh. 500 fans of Sonu Sood came out to promote his film Fateh. (Photo Credits: X) Sonu Sood, immensely loved for his humble nature, is all set to appear in his next, Fateh. Now, ahead of the release of his much-anticipated film, his 500 fans from Solapur, Maharashtra, honoured him with a record-breaking 390-foot cutout. This was not only a tribute to the actor and his character in the film but a huge step by his fans for the promotion of his upcoming film. A fan page of Sonu Sood shared a video featuring 500 students of a school in Solapur, who seemed to be die-hard fans of the actor. In the clip, the schoolgoers were seen carrying the huge 390-foot cutout stand that simply became a testament to the films branding and the love he gets from his fans. It was created with custom Fateh-themed T-shirts, statues and even decorated autos with the films branding, as reported by Free Press Journal. related stories The caption alongside the post read in Hindi, For the first time in history, the public has taken the responsibility of promoting their heros film because he is not just a hero of cinema, but the biggest hero of humanity. Sonu Sood ji, the place you have made in our hearts has resulted in people coming forward and giving their love and support to *Fateh*. This is not a film, it is a mass movement, where everyone is ready to see their real hero on the big screen! @SonuSood #sonusood #Fateh #fateh10jan." , , , , *'Fateh'* pic.twitter.com/aHbeI11yjD sonu sood (parody) (@sonusood_india) January 7, 2025 Soon, many other fans of Sood flooded the comment section by showing their appreciation towards him. One user wrote, Bahut hi shandar", while another said, Sonu movie will be a blockbuster." Echoing a similar sentiment, someone said, Awesome." Directed and written by Sonu, the high-octane action thriller Fateh is set against the backdrop of cybercrime. The film is produced by Umesh KR Bansal under Zee Studios and Sonali Sood of Shakti Sagar Productions, with Ajay Dhama as co-producer. Besides Sonu, it stars Naseeruddin Shah, Jacqueline Fernandez and Vijay Raaz in key roles. A few days ago, when Sonu visited the Samadhi of Shri Sai Baba, he interacted with the media present over there after seeking blessings. In a candid conversation, he shared, I think Fateh was my dream role, one that I always wanted to play: a common man who has a superhero inside him. I believe every individual, every common man, has a superhero within them. You just need to discover that. Im glad that with Fateh, I was able to discover that side of myself. And I hope that when people watch it, they not only get entertained by the script but also get inspired," reported ANI. The Acharya actor also revealed what Fateh means to him, and said, I think when you can be someones hope, its not about how rich, famous, or influential you are. We are all those things, but sometimes, when someone becomes a hope, a person leaves their native village in Punjab or Uttar Pradesh with the belief that when they reach out to an individual, their life will change. I think that is true Fateh-when you can change someones life, thats what real Fateh is." Fateh will be released at the theatres on January 10. First Published: January 07, 2025, 16:55 IST Tom Holland And Zendaya Are Engaged! Spider-Man Couple Exchanged Rings In An Intimate Ceremony Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:16 IST The report of Tom Holland and Zendaya's engagement comes hours after the latter was also spotted with a large diamond ring on her finger at the 82nd Golden Globes. Tom Holland and Zendaya met in 2016 during Spider-Man: Homecoming. (Photo Credits: X) Tom Holland and Zendaya are finally engaged. As reported by TMZ, the Spider-Man stars exchanged rings recently. Reportedly, it was an intimate yet romantic ceremony which was not even attended by the two actors family members. Instead, it was a sweet moment just between Tom and Zendaya. The report of Tom and Zendayas engagement comes hours after the latter was also spotted with a large diamond ring on her finger at the 82nd Golden Globes. During the red carpet of the mega show, when a Los Angeles Times reporter asked her about the ring, she didnt give a direct answer. Instead, the Euphoria star smiled coyly and shrugged her shoulders mysteriously," leaving fans even more curious. related stories Tom Holland and Zendaya have been together since 2021. They are often seen together on dates or attending events. Despite their low-key public appearances, there have been few instances when the couple have opened up about their romance. In an interview with Elle in 2023, Zendaya shed light on the attention their pictures receive whenever they go viral from their outings. Parts of my life, I accept, are going to be public. I cant be a person and live my life and love the person I love. But also, I do have control over what I choose to share. Its about protecting the peace and letting things be your own but also not being afraid to exist. You cant hide. Thats not fun, either. I am navigating it more than ever now," she said. Meanwhile, after Spider-Man: No Way Home, Zendaya and Tom Holland will appear together once again in the next Marvel movie. It was recently confirmed that the couple would also share the screen in Christopher Nolans upcoming film, The Odyssey, which is scheduled to release in 2026. The historical drama will also feature Anne Hathaway, Matt Damon, Lupita Nyongo, Robert Pattinson and Charlize Theron. First Published: January 07, 2025, 07:29 IST Opinion | Why Elon Musks Broadside At Keir Starmer Was Needed Written By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 14:44 IST Western democracies must reassess the emerging new definition of Islamophobia: fear of the Muslim vote Musk has claimed on X that Starmer had failed to bring rape gangs to justice during his tenure as director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013. In last years UK general elections, which the Labour Party won by a landslide, a new factor emerged, called The Muslim Vote. It even has a website by that name that states, We are a powerful, united force of 4 million acting in unison. We are focused on seats where the Muslim vote can influence the outcome. We are here for the long term." Given that the British-Muslim vote comprises at least 10% (and in some places over 40 per cent) in over 90 constituencies, many of them swing seats, their 2024 tally of 4 independent Muslim winners is ominous. Because in every case, they beat Labour candidatesthereby bucking the trend in that partys favour in 2024. Even British Prime Minister Keir Starmers majority dipped in his seat in 2024 as he was seen by The Muslim Vote as being on the wrong" side on Gaza. So is it surprising that the already under-pressure Labour government is very reluctant to dig deeper into the long-running complaints about the grooming, abduction and gangrape of under-age white girls by British-Asian (a euphemism for British-Pakistani) men for well over 30 years? related stories Even today many do not know much about the grooming and child sex racket, though the National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation into child sexual abuse in Rotherham codenamed Operation Stovewoodset up after a 2014 inquiry and report by Alexis Jay found at least 1,400 white girls had been groomed and sexually abused between 1997 and 2003has led to the conviction of over 50 men, most of them British Pakistanis. White men were also caught and convicted, but they had operated alone, not in gangs, unlike the Pakistani men. In September 2024, all seven men jailed for assaulting two girls aged 11 and 15 in Rotherham between 2003 and 2008 were of Pakistani origin. As investigations grind on, careful to not make any racial distinctions, it is clear the exploitation were mostly done by groups of men of mainly Pakistani heritage in Rotherham, Rochdale, Oldham, Huddersfield, Telford and more. But many of those who tried to get more perpetrators to justice were ignored by the police and local councils, so only a fraction of the rapists was caught and prosecuted. Had the irrepressible Elon Musk and his fiercely unpartisan social media site X not blown the lid off the sex trafficking and long-term rape of minor white girls by mostly British Muslim men, the world may not have woken up to it for another few decades. And Labour may have succeeded in downplaying it to protect its future electoral chances. This becomes apparent given that the UK government is reportedly trying to use its huge majority to push through legislation that may effectively make it impossible to even criticise Muslims. The UK mainstream media, which has long been complicit in the downplaying of this deplorable activity, is now reporting that the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government under Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner is mulling a formal definition of Islamophobia. Significantly, the version already adopted by the Labour Party internally has been drafted by the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims" and has one proposal that would deem as Islamophobic using the term sex groomer for any Muslim. Interestingly, the report of APPG on British Muslims states: Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness." The problem with this sort of definition of Islamophobia is clearly explained by Stephen Evans, chief executive of the National Secular Society: Conflating criticism of a religion with hatred towards Muslims distorts legitimate dialogue and undermines the vital principle of free expression." And there is plenty of evidence of just that consequence already. Several MPs, including some from the Labour Party, have recently pointed out that local councils, not to mention individuals, were scared of being dubbed racist and thus had stuck to a form of political correctness that led to the suppression of the true depth and spread of the activities of the grooming gangs because they almost exclusively comprised Pakistani-origin Muslim men. Even the ex-cop whistle-blower of the Oldham grooming racket was sidelined by Starmer who refused to even meet her, so as to prevent publicity for her cause. Maggie Oliver, the former detective with the Greater Manchester Police who uncovered failures in the investigation of Muslim grooming gangs says Starmer is perhaps as guilty as anyone" for this unconscionable soft-pedalling of that criminal activity. Fortunately, his refusal to listen to her story has had the opposite effect mostly thanks to Musks instigation and the availability of X as an honest platform for dissemination of such information, with no quarter granted to the emerging electoral heft and silencing power of The Muslim Vote. Musk has claimed on X that Starmer had failed to bring rape gangs" to justice during his tenure as director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013the number of groomers actually prosecuted and convicted is undeniably miniscule, whether by design or carelessness. But the Labour governments unwillingness to ruffle British-Muslim feathers gives rise to the prospect of a different new definition of Islamophobia that is emerging in countries with a significant presence of that community: not hatred of Muslims but fear of Muslims. As most countries where the new definition of Islamophobia is developing are western democracies with increasingly fractured polities, the underplaying (if not cover-up) of the true nature of the grooming and rape racket in the UK is a wake-up call about communally aligned votebanks using their combined heft to influence government (in)action to protect their own and further an agenda. Calling the abusers British-Asian" rather than specifically British Muslim or British-Pakistani appears to be part of a wilful policy to obfuscate. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all If using the word Asian when describing the convicted serial rapists is not racial profiling why should the line be drawn at Pakistani or Muslim unless the 4 million Muslim Vote" is a factor? Why should British Indians or indeed Sri Lankans or Nepalis, etc, be tarred by inference and political correctness? The convicts names are telltale but their origin may not be apparent to the lay UK public as it is to the wider community of Asians", in UK and elsewhere. Western democracies must reassess the emerging new definition of Islamophobia: fear. The author is a freelance writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: January 07, 2025, 14:40 IST How Prashant Kishor, Disruptor In Bihar Triangle, Is Redrawing Electoral Battle Lines Written By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 14:49 IST By tying his personal actions to the larger narrative of political accountability, Kishor is trying to position himself as a champion of transparency and justice, appealing to voters who are wary of the old political guard Prashant Kishors political-electoral strategy seems to be a calculated mix of grassroots mobilisation, some direct actions along with an emotional appeal, and having a high-pitched sub-regionalism. (PTI) Kishors current approach to the BPSC (Bihar Public Service Commission) scam has revealed a deeper, wisely calculated political strategy which goes beyond just reacting to the issue at hand. His decision to start a hunger strike until the demand for re-examination is met, and his willingness to court arrest including his refusal to sign a bail bond to remain in jail speaks volumes about his political acumen and his intent. related stories The BPSC protest move is not merely about protesting against the scam. Instead, it is more about positioning himself as the voice of the people, especially Bihars youth, and also against an alleged corrupt system in the state as it is to go to polls in the next nine to 10 months. In the caste-based fractured society in the state, Kishors decision to take such a bold stance comes at a time when Bihars political landscape is readying for a major shift that may be seen in the next assembly polls. This clearly indicates how Kishor is capitalising on the growing and pent-up discontent surrounding issues like corruption, governance, and mismanagement in Bihar, all of which may sway public opinion in the lead-up to the state elections. By tying his personal actions to the larger narrative of political accountability, Kishor is now trying to position himself as a champion of transparency and justice, appealing to voters who are wary of the old political guard. Jan Suraaj and its sunlight moment Kishors Jan Suraaj Party, which that was floated with much pomp and show on Mahatma Gandhis birthday on October 2, 2024, fought its first-ever election next month as the state saw bypolls in four assembly constituencies. The party, which was still at a nascent stage, fought on all four seats that went to bypolls. It had a strong showing in the bypolls, where it secured over 23 per cent votes on Imamganj seat and more than 11 per cent in Belganj, further solidifying Kishors political standing. For a first-time electoral outing, these results are quite impressive, signaling that Kishors message somewhat resonates with a significant portion of the electorate, despite the limited time and resources available to his party. This electoral success, combined with his latest protest actions, reflect that Kishor is not just looking to be a fleeting political figure, but is also preparing to be a key player in Bihars upcoming elections. His political-electoral strategy seems to be a calculated mix of grassroots mobilisation, some direct actions along with an emotional appeal, and having a high-pitched sub-regionalism or commonly called sub-nationalism through his slogan Jai Bihar. By taking such a visible stand against the BPSC scam, Kishor is not only addressing an issue that affects the common man and the unemployed but aspirational youth of Bihar, but also positioning himself as someone willing to fight for the people, even if it means taking a few personal risks. It is surely a message that aligns well with the electorates growing desire for change and reform in Bihars politics, especially as the state gears up for its next round of electoral battles. The sharp edge of the Bihar triangle Political experts feel that if Kishor continues with the momentum he created, he will be able to damage the voter base of both political stalwarts of Bihar Nitish Kumar and Lalu Yadav. As both these politicians are now part of national alliances NDA and INDIA bloc respectively Kishors outreach may bring more harm to the RJD than it does to the JDU. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Prashant Kishor has already done the frontal attack on JDUs governance, exposing its failures in education policy and the BPSC scandal. However, he always attacked RJD more on several occasions. Now, hes playing a selective game with the BJP, focusing on their vulnerabilities to further his political ambitions. It seems to be a mixture of strategy by targeting Bihars Muslim voters, EBC-OBC and upper-caste voters in different ways. In that pecking order, he may damage the vote bank of the RJD most, and JDU a bit less," said Santosh Singh, a senior political analyst and author based out of Patna. By fielding Muslim candidates, Kishor is damaging RJDs base while trying to attract the Muslim vote and shift the balance. This strategy will also slightly erode JDUs support as his appeal somehow reaches the EBC-OBC voters as well, adding to the fractured political landscape. As and when he starts getting upper-caste votes, it will also affect the BJP. Overall, Kishor is now a potential disruptor in Bihars bipolar fight between Lalu and Nitish," he added. First Published: January 07, 2025, 14:49 IST Samsung Galaxy S25 Launch Confirmed For January 2025: Event Date, Timings And What To Expect Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 10:25 IST Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event date is confirmed where we could see the new Galaxy S25 series models unveiled. Samsung has finally confirmed the launch date for the new Galaxy S25 series. Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 has been finally confirmed and as the reports had hinted, the big launch event will be happening this month. The Galaxy S25 series will undoubtedly head the lineup and we expect to see some other products from the company at the event which is slated to happen in the next couple of weeks. Samsung launched the Galaxy S24 lineup around the same time in 2024 and we expect to see more new AI products from the brand very soon. Samsung Galaxy S25 Launch Date, Timings And More related stories Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025 event is confirmed for January 22 which will be hosted in San Jose, US. Samsung will live stream the event across the globe and people in India can catch up on the launch event from 11:30 PM IST on the given date. Samsung Galaxy S25 Launch: New Phones, AI And More To Expect The new Galaxy S25 series will most likely have three models, including the Galaxy S25 Ultra once again. We have heard rumours about the Galaxy S25 Slim version but that could be reserved for another day by the company. Samsung will also have AI in its sights with the Galaxy AI features for the new phones that will be powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen Elite chipset. The company should upgrade on the cameras which were one of the best in 2024 and now the stakes have gone higher. The Samsung Galaxy S25 series will enable Qi2 wireless charging, according to a tip from Ice Universe. It is rumoured that the base model would have a battery with a rated capacity of 3,881mAh and a usual capacity of 4,000mAh. The current Samsung Galaxy S24 has a battery that is the same size as this. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to previous leaks, the standard Samsung Galaxy S25 with 12GB + 128GB would start at $799 (Rs 67,400 approx), while the Galaxy S25+ with 12GB + 26GB might start at $999 (Rs 84,300 approx). The top-tier Galaxy S25 Ultra, on the other hand, is anticipated to launch for $1,299 (Rs 1,09,600 approx) for the 12GB + 256GB model. In addition to the phones, we might also see the Galaxy Ring 2 version unveiled and the first Samsung XR headset teased ahead of the big launch later this year. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 10:25 IST Windows AI Laptops Priced Under Rs 50,000 Are Finally Coming This Year: What We Know Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 12:58 IST The new range of Windows AI laptops with the Snapdragon X processor could be the ideal option for many basic users. Qualcomm has officially announced the new Snapdragon X processor at the CES 2025 CES 2025 is going in full swing this week and Qualcomm has used the event to give big news for PC enthusiasts and consumers. The Snapdragon X processor has mostly catered to the high-end laptops so far but now the company is ready to target the affordable PC segment with its new Snapdragon X version that promises AI features for under Rs 50,000 in the market. Yes, the market needs affordable options because people are not going to easily spend over Rs 1 lakh on the Windows AI laptops, when they have the Apple MacBooks in their sight. But what will these $600 (Rs 51,000 approx) Snapdragon X-powered laptops offer and what can we expect from them, heres a look at what the company is promising. related stories Snapdragon X For AI Laptops: Affordable But Reliable? Qualcomm seems quite clear about what the affordable Snapdragon X laptops will offer and yes, we should not expect high-grade performance from them. The version is based on the same 4nm process like the premium tier models but the levels will be lower but that should not be a concern. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all However, the company does claim it will perform better than its rival options, and longer battery life, something that most people would happily take for the price tag. You will also get to use the Copilot + features from Microsoft, which we are interested to see running on these affordable laptops. In India, we expect these Snapdragon X laptops to cost somewhere around Rs 65,000 which will still be an appealing range for many buyers. Qualcomm will also compete with the Apple Mac Mini thanks to the Snapdragon X powered mini PCs running on Windows 11 out of the box. Early signs are promising but well have to wait for another few months to see the actual laptops launch in the market with brands like Asus, Dell and HP among others expected to have their options available soon. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:58 IST 22-Year-Old Spanish Tourist Dies While Bathing An Elephant On Thailand Trip Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:10 IST On January 3, Blanca Ozunguren Garcia was bathing an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in southwestern Thailand when it attacked her. Pierced by the animal's tusks, she succumbed to her injuries Blanca was a fifth-year student at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, studying law and international relations. (News18 Hindi) Thailand is a popular destination among young travellers seeking adventure and fun. Many Indians, as well as tourists from across the world, frequently visit Thailand. However, sometimes, seeking adventure also turns into a tragic accident, even taking lives. Recently, a 22-year-old Spanish woman, who travelled to Thailand with her boyfriend, was tragically killed by an elephant at an Elephant Care Centre. The incident occurred while the woman was bathing with the elephant and assisting in washing it. Reports indicate that her boyfriend was present during the incident. related stories According to Spanish newspapers El Mundo and El Pais, the victim, identified as Blanca Ozunguren Garcia, was from Valladolid in northwestern Spain. On January 3, while bathing an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre on Yao Yai Island in southwestern Thailand, the elephant attacked her. She was injured by the animals tusks and succumbed to her injuries. Details about the nature of her injuries remain unclear, and it is not known if her boyfriend was harmed. Blanca was a fifth-year student at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, studying law and international relations. She was in Taiwan on a university exchange programme. The university issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over her tragic death, extending condolences to her family and requesting prayers for her soul. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Blanca was enjoying a popular tourist activity, bathing with elephants. She and her boyfriend were in the water washing the animals when the elephant suddenly attacked. Blanca suffered severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Thailand has a significant elephant population. According to the National Parks Department, more than 4,000 wild elephants inhabit its sanctuaries, parks, and nature reserves. Additionally, around 4,000 domesticated elephants are primarily used in tourist attractions and shows. Location : Thailand First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:10 IST 82% Of Bosses Are 'Accidental,' Leading To Employee Dissatisfaction In UK: Study Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 17:13 IST A survey, including 4,500 workers and managers, found that most managers do not receive the training needed for their roles. This lack of training is one of the reasons why employees are unhappy. (Representative Image) Research has revealed that many managers in the UK are promoted without proper training. A survey conducted by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), which included 4500 workers and managers, found that most managers do not receive the training needed for their roles. The study showed that 82 per cent of managers are considered accidental managers," meaning they were promoted based on title, not skills. This lack of training is affecting the quality of management and is one of the key reasons why employees are unhappy and choose to leave their jobs. The research also found that 52 per cent of managers do not have any qualifications in management or leadership. Whats even more surprising, 33 per cent of current managers and leaders have never received formal management training, including 26 per cent of senior managers. related stories Even with limited qualifications and training, 27 per cent of employees described their manager as highly effective. On the other hand, 37 per cent considered them somewhat effective, while 18 per cent felt their manager was neither effective nor ineffective. The data further shows that 18 per cent rated their manager as ineffective, 12 per cent said they were somewhat ineffective and 6 per cent saw them as highly ineffective. Interestingly, nearly 18 per cent of managers admit they are less confident in their leadership skills. Meanwhile, 60 per cent feel confident but believe they still need further development to improve. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all An unnamed middle manager agrees that the UK has a high number of accidental managers. She said, These untrained managers are damaging organisational culture, productivity, staff wellbeing and, as a result, the national economy. Trained managers, although not guaranteed, are still expected to have developed their emotional intelligence to support staff, create a positive environment, encourage creativity and innovation, and ensure the organisations sustainability." A senior manager explains that a good manager has a big impact because employees often spend more time at work than with their families. When a manager is supportive, it can improve not only the employees work life but also their home life. They have the power to create a workplace culture where people feel independent, motivated, confident to take risks and remain dedicated towards their team and tasks, leading to better results. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 17:13 IST Elon Musk's Biographer Claims He Is 'Going Mad' And 'Deeply Unwell' Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 17:44 IST Seth Abramson shared a series of tweets to claim that Elon Musk is mentally ill and must be kept away to protect America. Seth Abramson raised concerns about Elon Musk's mental well-being. (Photo Credits: X) Is Elon Musk going mad? Often making headlines for his bold statements, political affiliations, and social media activities, the Tesla CEO has now found himself in an unexpected discussion. This time, it is not him but a self-claimed Musk biographer who has been keeping track of the billionaires online behavior for a long time. Seth Abramson, a former attorney, and a professor, recently took to social media and made shocking claims about Elon Musk. Alleging the Tesla chief has been struggling with mental illness, drug use, and stress, he highlighted that America must be protected from him. I legitimately believe Elon Musk may be going mad. Im a Musk biographer who has been tracking his online behavior for the last two yearsand given that hes admitted to all of the mental illness, heavy drug use, and crippling stress, it is now reasonable to fear he is deeply unwell," he wrote in a tweet. related stories I legitimately believe Elon Musk may be going mad. I'm a Musk biographer who has been tracking his online behavior for the last two yearsand given that he's admitted to all of mental illness, heavy drug use, and crippling stress, it is now reasonable to fear he is deeply unwell. Seth Abramson (@SethAbramson) January 6, 2025 Following up further, Abramson explained that his private struggles have started causing dramatic public consequences. His holdings across many civilization-essential industries and the fact that hes the incoming POTUS mean that his madness and increasing incitement of violence endanger us all," he added. The tweets also added that the administration has been in a position to take urgent action to protect the US from Musk, indicating the end of contracts with him and filing lawsuits to block his unconstitutional DOGE initiative. If no action is takenand I suspect no action will be takenwhat this man in his burgeoning madness does to America as POTUS in the coming years will be on the heads of not just him and those who support or enable him but those who ignored urgent, informed warnings like this one," he concluded. Social media users instantly reacted to the post with many supporting Abramsons viewpoints. Others also claimed that the billionaire had been interfering in matters irrelevant to him. A user wrote, You think? The guy spends more time on X worrying about things half way across the world but not his own children," while another added, He is a billionaire, why doesnt he buy a private island and spend the rest of his life growing vegetables and walking on the beach? Its what I would do." I wouldnt be afraid of him eventually getting locked up in a madhouse; Id actually hope for it, so he cant cause any more harm," a comment read. In a major highlight, the billionaire businessmans sister, Tosca Musk also reacted to the post and wrote, No. You are wrong. On so many levels." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all No. You are wrong. On so many levels. Tosca Musk (@ToscaMusk) January 6, 2025 This comes at a time when Elon Musk has continued to exert himself deeper into British politics amid his ongoing feud with the ruling Labour Party. He even launched a poll on X, asking his followers and other users where America should liberate the British from the tyrannical government." Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 17:44 IST How AI Solved 19-Year-Old Murder Of Kerala Woman And Her Newborn Twins Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 17:20 IST AI was used to progressively age old photos of the accused, predicting their appearance after 19 years. The generated images were then compared with photos on social media to find a match. Here, a 90% match with a wedding photograph on Facebook helped solve the... Read More While Santhamma was away, Rajesh acting on Divils behest, murdered Ranjini and her children. (Representative/Shutterstock) In a remarkable feat, the Kerala Police solved a 2006 murder case after 19 years, utilising Artificial Intelligence to secure the arrest of two individuals alleged to have killed a woman and her twin children. On February 10, 2006, in Anchal, a town in Keralas Kollam district, Santamma was returning home from the Panchayat office. Upon arriving, she was met with a horrific sight. Her daughter, Ranjini, and Ranjinis 17-day-old twins were lying in a pool of blood, their throats slit. related stories Following the incident, police swiftly launched an investigation and sought to apprehend two suspects, Divil Kumar and Rajesh. Both men were army personnel stationed at the Pathankot military base when the incident occurred. However, the suspects evaded capture. An investigation ensued, but as time elapsed, the case turned cold. In 2023, the Technical Intelligence Wing of the Kerala Police turned to artificial intelligence to re-examine old cases. Using modern technology, they enhanced old photographs of the two accused to generate an estimation of how they might look after 19 years. Finally, a wedding photo that surfaced on social media, bearing a 90% similarity to the suspect, provided a breakthrough. The photo depicted a man from Puducherry, identified as Praveen Kumar". This discovery spurred the investigation forward, leading to the arrests of Rajesh and Divil Kumar. According to a report by The Indian Express, Kerala ADGP (Law and Order) Manoj Abraham stated that his technical intelligence team solved a long-pending case using artificial intelligence (AI). He explained that AI was used to progressively age old pictures of the accused, simulating their potential appearance after 19 years. These images were then compared against photographs on social media. The AI-generated image of one accused showed a 90% match with a wedding photograph shared on Facebook. This lead led to Rajesh being located in Puducherry, with Divil subsequently traced through his connection. The CBI arrested both accused in Puducherry on January 4, 2025, almost 20 years after the crime. The two individuals had established new identities and were working as interior designers. Divil had assumed the name Vishnu, while Rajesh was living as Praveen Kumar. Police investigations into the case revealed that Santammas daughter, Ranjini, and the accused, Divil, were residents of the same village and had been in a relationship. However, the relationship deteriorated when Ranjini informed Divil about her pregnancy, and he reportedly distanced himself, relocating to Pathankot. The situation worsened due to Ranjinis insistence on carrying the pregnancy to term. Ranjini gave birth to twin daughters in January 2006 at a Thiruvananthapuram hospital. During this period, Rajesh, posing as Anil Kumar, befriended Ranjini, offering her support. Rajesh and Divil, former army colleagues, conspired to murder her. Following the birth of their children, Ranjini approached the State Womens Commission, obtaining an order to compel Divil to undergo a DNA test to prove his parenthood of the children. Rajesh reportedly persuaded Ranjinis mother to visit the local panchayat office for some official work. While she was away, Rajesh, acting on Divils behest, murdered Ranjini and her children. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The registration number of a two-wheeler discovered at the crime scene led investigators to a military camp in Pathankot, but the accused had already absconded. According to a report in The Indian Express, Ranjinis mother, Santhamma, said that Rajesh, tried to get close to her daughter in the hospital and kept hovering around her. He continued to visit her even after they shifted to a rented house. Divil Kumars family had raised questions about Ranjinis character, which is why she wanted him to undergo a paternity test. Location : Kerala, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 17:20 IST Photo: https://www.facebook.com/zelenskyy.official There are 7,000 civilians in Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, Deputy Head of Pokrovsk City Military Administration Oleksiy Stebel has said. "We realize that the situation in the community is rather difficult, the residents of our community are in a rather difficult situation, they need the help of the military administration. Therefore, we continue to provide and, as we said, we will continue to provide assistance to all needy people who, unfortunately, have not yet left our community. The Pokrovsk community itself is two towns and 39 villages. There remain a little more than 7,000 residents in Pokrovsk," he was quoted by the press service of the administration on the Telegram channel. The official pointed out that the administration continues to provide assistance to the residents remaining in the city. When the security situation allows, utility services and building materials are provided. Watch: Stray Dog Becomes First To Cross The Newly Opened Romania-Hungary Border Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 11:59 IST A video has surfaced online that shows a stray dog casually strolling near the newly accessible divide. Eventually, the furry animal passes the newly opened Hungary-Romania border, moments after the checkpoint barrier is lifted up. The uniformed border guards erupt in cheers to greet their first guest. (Photo Credits: X) As Bulgaria and Romania officially joined the Schengen zone, officials celebrated the end of border checks between Hungary and Romania. Amid the celebrations, a heartwarming and unexpected moment occurred on the Hungary-Romania border that captured the worlds attention. Surprisingly, a four-legged wanderer became the first official crosser, creating a viral moment of unexpected joy. A video has surfaced online that shows a stray dog casually strolling near the newly accessible divide. Eventually, the furry animal passes the newly opened Hungary-Romania border, moments after the checkpoint barrier is lifted up. Upon this, the uniformed border guards holding the Romanian and Hungarian flags at each end of the checkpoint erupt in cheers and clap to greet their first cross-border guest. related stories Stray dog accidentally becomes the first to cross the Romania-Hungary border after Romania became a full member of the European Unions Schengen area. The dog perfectly timed the entrance as the checkpoint barrier lifted up. The animal received a warm welcome as border guards started clapping," read the caption. NEW: Stray dog accidentally becomes the first to cross the Romania-Hungary border after Romania became a full member of the European Unions Schengen area.The dog perfectly timed the enterance as the checkpoint barrier lifted up. The animal received a warm welcome as border pic.twitter.com/hKl4jv39Ii Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 5, 2025 With more than 3 lakh views and counting, the heartwarming video quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of several viewers. Upon watching the clip, a barrage of Instagram users chimed into the comments section of the post to share their views. A majority of users couldnt stop themselves from showering praise on the dog for his symbolic free walk from one country to another. Others expressed that this incident has now become a part of history. Most positive thing Ive seen today. Somebody adopt that sweet dog," exclaimed a user. Most positive thing Ive seen today. Somebody adopt that sweet dog. Juanita Broaddrick (@atensnut) January 5, 2025 Another added, This is amazing; he deserves all the pats! What a trailblazer!!" This is amazing, He deserves all the pats!What a trailblazer!! Michael Fichman (@MichaelFichman) January 5, 2025 That is soooo cutepart of history now!" read a comment. That is soooo cute part of history now! Fauna Fables Farmstead II (@FaunaFablesFarm) January 5, 2025 Adding a tweak of humour, a user humourously said, He shall be named King of Romania now." He shall be named King of Romania. Gunther Eagleman (@GuntherEagleman) January 5, 2025 Im sure he appreciates the applause, but a sausage would be much better," said an individual. I'm sure he appreciates the applause, but a sausage would be much better. Financial Context (@FinContext) January 5, 2025 An account remarked, Hahaha, what a warm moment. Dogs are the best!" hahaha what a warm moment. Dogs are the best! M/M (@hemispheresmm) January 6, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Bulgaria and Romania removed land border restrictions to other European Union (EU) members on January 1. This made them full members of the Schengen zone, which allows residents to travel between countries without passport checks. In 2007, both Bulgaria and Romania joined the European Union. Although the two nations met all the qualifications to join the zone since 2010, other nations opposed their admission because of unsustainable migration concerns and the burden on the social system in the wealthier parts of the EU. Location : Delhi, India First Published: January 07, 2025, 11:59 IST Why Homo Sapiens Became The Only Human Species Left On Earth? Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 19:21 IST According to some experts, six human species existed simultaneously around 60,000 years ago. They were Neanderthals, Denisovans, Homo Heidelbergensis, Homo Naledi, Homo Erectus, and Homo sapiens It is believed that homo sapiens, possessing larger brains, adapted more effectively to the changing environment. (Representative/AP File) Today, biodiversity on Earth is suboptimal. While many animal species exist, a significant number face the threat of extinction. Often, however, there are other extant species within their respective families. This is not the case for humans. Today, only one human species exists, Homo sapiens. For the last several thousand years, ours has been the sole surviving human species on Earth; other human species have become extinct. Evidence suggests that human history began in Africa around six million years ago when ape-like creatures began to walk upright. These creatures had numerous descendants, many of whom died out. The first close human relatives emerged around two million years ago. Among them, Homo ergaster developed tools, became a skilled hunter, ran swiftly, and adapted to hot climates. related stories Homo erectus, a species that ranged from Turkey to China, subsequently flourished. As hunter-gatherers, they exhibited similarities to modern Homo sapiens, who are known to have migrated out of Africa 120,000 years ago. Upon reaching Europe, Homo sapiens encountered Neanderthals. Homo sapiens also successfully populated India. The eruption of Mount Toba in Southeast Asia, a supervolcanic event that occurred 74,000 years ago, had a significant impact on human evolution. This supervolcano eruption, the most destructive in the past 2 million years, spread ash across Asia and released massive lava flows. Experts believe that around 60,000 years ago, six human species coexisted: Neanderthals, Denisovans, Homo Heidelbergensis, Homo Naledi, Homo Erectus, and Homo sapiens. This period presented a significant adaptation challenge for all, particularly due to volcanic activity. In the 40,000 years following the eruption, Homo erectus gradually vanished, despite being physically stronger and more robust than Homo sapiens. However, homo sapiens, possessing larger brains, adapted more effectively to the changing environment. Denisovans became extinct 50,000 years ago, while Neanderthals disappeared around 30,000 years ago. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Professor Chris Stringer of the Natural History Museum emphasises the difficulty in pinpointing the exact cause of these extinctions, making it challenging to definitively answer why Homo sapiens became the sole surviving human species. Currently, the prevailing hypothesis suggests that Homo sapiens superior adaptability to changing environments played a crucial role. Speculations also exist regarding whether Homo sapiens contributed to the extinction of other human species. Professor Stringer acknowledges that increasing knowledge complicates the matter. The possibility of interbreeding between Neanderthals, Denisovans, and Homo sapiens, leading to genetic merging and the eventual dominance of Homo sapiens, is also considered. However, insufficient data exists to confirm this theory. First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:21 IST Donald Trump On Justin Trudeau's Resignation: 'Canada Must Merge With US' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 07:47 IST Justin Trudeau Resigns: Claiming that such a merger would eliminate tariffs, lower taxes and ensure Canadas security against threats from Russia and China, Donald Trump asserted, "Together, what a great nation it would be!!!" Justin Trudeau Resigns: US President-elect Donald Trump reacted to the resignation of Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. (AP Image) US President-elect Donald Trump responded to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation saying that Canada should join the United States as the 51st state." This has been raised by Donald Trump before as well. This time, in a post on Truth Social, Donald Trump said that the move could benefit a lot of Canadians. He said, 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. Claiming that such a merger would eliminate tariffs, lower taxes and ensure Canadas security against threats from Russia and China, he asserted, Together, what a great nation it would be!!!" top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all related stories Earlier, in a meeting at his Mar-a-Lago resort with Justin Trudeau, Donald Trump had said that if Canadas economy were to collapse under US tariffs, it could merge with the US. Donald Trump has long criticized Canadas trade practices, particularly its trade deficit with the US. He had previously threatened a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports if the country did not take stronger action to curb migration. Justin Trudeaus resignation comes amid falling poll numbers and internal divisions in his own party. His exit from the top position marks the end of his tenure after nearly a decade in power. In his resignation, Justin Trudeau said If I have one regret I do wish that wed been able to change the way we elect our governments in this country", adding that Voters should be allowed to pick their second and third choices on the voting ballot itself, instead of the current system, which is set up to play to the advantage of those who want to polarise the situation and play Canadians against each other." Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: January 07, 2025, 07:42 IST 'When Starmer Called Trump...': Elon Musk Hits Back At Macron Over Election Interference Claims Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 09:25 IST A growing number of European leaders have expressed frustration with Elon Musk over his controversial posts targeting UK PM Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Elon Musk responded after French President Macron joined other European leaders in criticising the tech mogul over election interference. (Reuters) Elon Musk has hit back at French President Emmanuel Macron after the latter accused the tech mogul of election interference, including in Germanys snap legislative elections scheduled for next month. Macron lent his voice to growing European criticism of Musk, as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz accused the Tesla owner of backing a far-right party and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer slammed him for spreading lies and misinformation" following days of incendiary posts by Musk on historical sex offences against children in northern England. related stories 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, adding that (US President-elect) Trump knows he has a strong ally in France". When Starmer Called Trump A Racist Hitting back at Macrons remarks, Musk once again turned the heat on Starmer, claiming that the current British PM once called Trump a racist and sent Labour Party members to campaign against the President-elect this year. Oh like that time Starmer called @realDonaldTrump a racist and said the British government should do everything to stop him? Or when Starmer sent British Labour Party members to campaign in the US against President Trump this year?" he said in a post on X. Oh like that time Starmer called @realDonaldTrump a racist and said the British government should do everything to stop him?Or when Starmer sent British Labour Party members to campaign in the US against President Trump this year?https://t.co/5R28WgZIj0 https://t.co/S3cjV27Woi Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 Notably, Donald Trumps campaign had accused Starmers Labour Party of blatant foreign interference" ahead of the November 5 presidential election after some volunteers travelled to help campaign for Vice President Kamala Harris. His team filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission in Washington, calling for an investigation into what it termed apparently illegal contributions from Labour to the Harris campaign. British political activists have long travelled to the US ahead of elections, with those from the centre-left Labour Party typically supporting the Democrats, its sister party, and Conservatives and the right-wing Reform backing the Republicans. However, Starmer denied that the complaint would damage relations with Trump if the latter won. Elon Musk Vs Keir Starmer Elon Musk has set his sights on key issues affecting Europeans and the English in recent days, with Starmer being the latest target of his tirade over a child sexual exploitation scandal that emerged during the latters tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions. The comments pose a major challenge for Starmers government, as it tries to fend off growing support for the far-right while also seeking to maintain good relations with Trumps incoming administration. Musks tirade has prompted some opposition politicians in the UK to join the criticism and call for a national probe. 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 added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A growing number of European leaders have expressed frustration with Musk over his incendiary posts. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said he found it worrying" that someone with so much wealth and influence was getting involved in the politics of European countries. (with inputs from agencies) Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: January 07, 2025, 09:25 IST Elon Musk Reacts To Drastic Population Decline In India, China Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:07 IST Elon Musk has often expressed concern over global population decline, warning that "population collapse is coming." Tesla CEO Elon Musk (AP Image) Elon Musk recently expressed his concerns about the global population drop, describing it as one of the worlds most urgent issues. Musk shared a tweet on X (previously Twitter) that featured a graph initially uploaded by the Tesla Owners Silicon Valley account which anticipated population changes from 2018 to 2100. The graph showed the population of significant countries such as Nigeria, the United States, Indonesia, and Pakistan, emphasising the impending demographic transitions. related stories The Tesla Owners Silicon Valley posted a graph stating, Population collapse is humanitys greatest threat Elon Musk." The post was retweeted by Musk replying, Yes." Elon Musk has often expressed concern over global population decline, warning that population collapse is coming." For years, experts have recognised that the worlds population is declining, while there is ongoing discussion regarding how fast this trend will occur and which countries would be most affected. Notably, population loss is mostly caused by declining fertility rates, immigration, and an ageing population. In many countries, the average number of children per woman falls below 2.1, the level required to maintain a stable population. According to the Office for National Statistics, the average number of children per woman in England and Wales will be 1.44 in 2023, the lowest it has ever been. Global fertility rates have fallen substantially, from an average of 5.3 children per woman in 1963 to less than half that figure now, according to the Daily Express. A graph published in 2020 shows that, while both India and China had populations of roughly 1.5 billion in 2018, their paths are anticipated to diverge significantly. By 2100, Indias population is expected to fall to slightly under 1.1 billion, a decrease of almost 400 million. However, Chinas population is anticipated to shrink sharply to 731.9 million, a startling 731 million drop. This would make Nigeria, with a predicted population of 790.1 million, the worlds second most populous country by the end of the century. According to a 2020 analysis from experts at the University of Washington, population decrease, notably in China and India, may proceed faster than previously thought. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Despite fertility rates below replacement levels, the United States is expected to be the fourth-largest country in 2100, with population stability aided by positive net migration. Canada and Australia are also anticipated to sustain semi-stable populations through migration. Current growth countries like Indonesia and Pakistan are likely to see small population reductions by 2100, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia are expected to outnumber them around the turn of the century. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: January 07, 2025, 23:07 IST Going To Put It Back On Day One: Trump Vows To Undo Biden's Offshore Drilling Ban Published By : Agencies Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:55 IST Donald Trump said he would go to the courts seeking justice if need arose and blamed Team Biden for hurting the transition process. US President-elect Donald Trump slammed his predecessor Joe Biden for introducing an offshore drilling ban. (IMAGE: REUTERS/AP) US President-elect Donald Trump used his press conference on Tuesday to complain that President Joe Biden was undermining his transition to power a day after the incumbent moved to ban offshore energy drilling in most federal waters. Im going to put it back on day one," Trump told reporters. He pledged to take it to the courts if we need to." related stories Trump said Bidens effort part of a series of final actions in office by the Democrats administration was undermining his plans for once hes in office. You know, they told me that were going to do everything possible to make this transition to the new administration very smooth," Trump said. Its not smooth." But Bidens team has extended access and courtesies to the Trump team that the Republican former president initially denied Biden after his 2020 election victory. Trump incoming chief of staff Susie Wiles told Axios in an interview published Monday that Biden chief of staff Jeff Zients had been has been very helpful." 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. 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 US offshore drilling occurs, but it would protect coastlines along California, Florida and other states from future drilling. 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. 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. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier in his term, Trump had initially moved to vastly expand offshore drilling, before retreating amid widespread opposition in Florida and other coastal states. (with inputs from Associated Press) Location : Palm Beach, Florida, US First Published: January 07, 2025, 23:36 IST Have To Do Something: Trump Hints At Using Military Force To Seize Panama Canal, Greenland Published By : Associated Press Last Updated: January 08, 2025, 00:02 IST Donald Trump said the Panama Canal is vital for the US and Greenland is essential for ensuring national security. Trump left open the use of the American military to secure both territories - Panama and Greenland. (IMAGE: AP PHOTO) President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday said he would not rule out the use of military force to seize control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, as he declared US control of both to be vital to American national security. Speaking to reporters less than two weeks before he takes office on Jan. 20 and as a delegation of aides and advisers that includes his son Donald Trump Jr. is in Greenland, Trump left open the use of the American military to secure both territories. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all related stories Im not going to commit to that," he said, when asked if he would rule out the use of the military. It might be that youll have to do something. The Panama Canal is vital to our country." He added, We need Greenland for national security purposes." Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, a longtime US ally and a founding member of NATO. Trump, a Republican, has floated having Canada join the United States. He said he would not use military force to do that, saying he would rely on economic force." Location : Palm Beach, Florida, US First Published: January 07, 2025, 23:22 IST Indian Workers Can Soon Renew H-1B Visas Without Leaving US. Here's How Curated By : Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 14:15 IST Indians occupy the maximum number of H-1B visa holders in the United States. The development came amid a call from the far-right to end the H-1B programme. Tens of thousands of employees each year, mostly from India and China, use the H-1B visas for employment in US companies. (Representative/File Photo) In good news for Indian workers, the US is expected to roll out a visa renewal programme that will allow highly-skilled professionals from other countries to renew their H-1B visas without having to leave the country. According to the US Department of State, the renewal programme will H-1B visa holders is expected to be implemented this year and will help hundreds and thousands of Indians who are employed in several specialty occupations, saving them from the trouble of going to India and renew their visas. related stories The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The development came after the successful completion of a pilot programme launched by the State Department to renew H-1B visas in the US, which involved around 20,000 eligible participants who met the requirements listed in the US Federal Register. The aim of the programme was to address the long-standing concerns raised by H-1B visa holders, most of whom are Indians. The visa holders traditionally have to spend a lot of time and money to travel halfway across the world to renew and restamp their visas, causing a great deal of inconvenience. However, with the implementation of the pilot programme, it has now become possible to expedite the process of visa renewal. The US State Department said the pilot programme allowed many specialty occupation workers from India to renew their visas without leaving the United States." This pilot programme streamlined the renewal process for thousands of applicants, and the Department of State is working to formally establish a US-based renewal programme in 2025," it said in a year-end statement. No dates have officially been announced. This is happening amid an intense debate over the H-1B visa programme and its impact on the American workforce. Hard-right supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump have called on t end the programme, labelling it as a threat to American workers and western civilisation. However, Trump and his top officials including Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have supported the visa regime, saying America needs talented people to stay ahead globally in technology, research and healthcare. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all As per the US governments official records, the number of H-1B recipients who were allowed into the US rose from 570,368 in the financial year 2018 to 601,594 in the financial year 2019. However, the number fell to 368,440 in the financial year 2020. In fiscal year 2023, Indians constituted 72.3% of all H-1B visa holders, reflecting a consistent trend of Indian nationals dominating this category. In contrast, Chinese applicants accounted for only 11.7% of approvals, as per a report in Mint. First Published: January 07, 2025, 14:15 IST Seattle Police Officer, Who Fatally Struck Indian Student Jaahnavi Kandula, Fired Published By : PTI Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 10:43 IST Seattle police officer Kevin Dave, who struck and killed Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023 while driving at high speed, has been fired for violating department policies. A photo of Jaahnavi Kandula is displayed with flowers, Jan. 29, 2023, in Seattle (AP) In a significant development, a Seattle police officer who killed Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023 when the patrol vehicle he was driving struck her, has been fired from the police department, officials said. Kandula, 23, from Andhra Pradesh, was struck by a police vehicle driven by Officer Kevin Dave when she was crossing a street in Seattle on January 23, 2023. He was driving 74 mph (more than 119 km/h) on the way to a report of a drug overdose call. related stories Kandula was thrown 100 feet when she was struck by the speeding police patrol vehicle. According to a report in The Seattle Times on Monday, Interim Seattle Police Chief Sue Rahr said that she had fired Dave from the Seattle Police Department. The report, citing an email sent by Rahr to employees, said she fired Dave on Monday after the Seattle Office of Police Accountability found he had violated four department policies. I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible," Rahr said. However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department," the report said. The development comes months after another Seattle police officer Daniel Auderer was fired following his insensitive comments and laughter after Kandulas death. In bodycam footage released by the Seattle Police Department, Auderer was heard laughing after the deadly crash and had remarked Uh, I think she went up on the hood, hit the windshield, and then when he hit the brakes, flew off the carBut she is dead." After making these comments, Auderer laughed hard for four seconds," the departments Disciplinary Action Report said. Auderers body-worn camera also captured him as saying that Yeah, just write a check. Just, yeah (laughter). USD 11,000. She was 26, anyway. She had limited value." When asked at an Office of Police Accountability interview about his comments that Kandula had limited value", Auderer claimed he was ridiculing the city attorneys who would be tasked with litigating a potential wrongful death lawsuit." Rahr had said in an internal email, seen by PTI, that the hurt Auderers words inflicted on Kandulas family cannot be erased. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The actions (of) this individual police officer have brought shame on the Seattle Police Department and our entire profession, making the job of every police officer more difficult." The King County Prosecutors Office had said that they would not move forward with criminal charges against Dave. The Seattle City Attorney had issued a USD 5,000 traffic infraction against him, according to KomoNews. The Consulate General of India in Seattle had been working consistently with authorities and law enforcement officials to ensure justice in the case. They have been in regular touch with Kandulas family representatives and had said that it would continue to extend all possible support in ensuring justice for Kandula and her family. The Consulate said that it would continue to monitor the progress of the case. Location : Seattle, Washington State, USA First Published: January 07, 2025, 10:43 IST Maldives Defence Minister To Visit India, Year After Indian Troops Withdrew From Male Published By : PTI Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 18:20 IST Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon will meet counterpart Rajnath Singh and visit Goa and Mumbai. Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon aims to deepen bilateral engagement between India and Maldives. (IMAGE: X) Maldivian Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon will pay a three-day visit to India from Wednesday to deepen bilateral engagement amid a thaw in relations between the two countries. Maumoon will hold wide-ranging talks with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh besides meeting several senior officials in the national capital. related stories The visit by the Maldivian minister comes over eight months after India withdrew its military personnel from the island nation following a demand by its pro-China president Mohamed Muizzu Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will hold a bilateral meeting with Maumoon in New Delhi on January 8, the defence ministry said. It said the two ministers will review the various facets of bilateral defence cooperation, including training, exercises and defence projects to enhance the capability of the Maldives National Defence Forces as well as supply of defence equipment. The Maldives occupies a special place in Indias Neighbourhood First policy, which aims to bring stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region," the ministry said. Both nations are key players in maintaining safety and security of IOR, thus contributing to Indias vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)," it added. Maumoon will also visit Goa and Mumbai. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Maldives is one of Indias key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean Region and the overall bilateral ties including in areas of defence and security witnessed an upward trajectory under the previous government in Male. The ties, however, came under severe strain after Muizzu, known for his pro-China leanings, took charge of the top office in November 2023. Within hours of his oath, he had demanded the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from his country. Subsequently, the Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians. There was a thaw in relations as Muizzu vowed to boost bilateral ties with India during his visit to Delhi in October. Location : Male, Maldives First Published: January 07, 2025, 18:20 IST Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua As of 16:00 on Tuesday, January 7, 128 military clashes were recorded on the front line, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "Our defenders are stopping the enemy, holding the lines and destroying the plans of the Russians. At the same time, the occupiers are focusing their efforts on Pokrovsk, Kurakhove directions and in Kursk region," the message says. So, in Pokrovsk direction, the occupiers started clashes of varying intensity 28 times. The Ukrainian defenders repelled enemy attacks in the areas of the settlements of Tarasivka, Vodiane Druhe, Yelyzavetivka, Luch, Lysivka, Sukhyi Yar, Zelene, Novyi Trud and Pokrovsk. As of 16:00, five clashes are ongoing. In Kurakhove direction, Ukrainian units repelled 14 attacks by Russians. In addition, 14 clashes occurred in Vremiyivka direction, four of them are ongoing. In Kursk region, the Defense Forces repelled 27 attacks by the Russian army. In addition, the enemy launched six air strikes, dropping 17 bombs, and carried out 146 artillery attacks, including six from multiple rocket launchers. "Ukrainian troops are exhausting the enemy along the entire line of contact and in the rear," the General Staff stressed. My Grandmother Would've Been A Grooming Gang Victim In Today's UK: Elons Latest Dig At Starmer Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:32 IST Elon Musk continues to pressure the UK government over the Rotherham sex scandal. Elon Musk married Walter Musk who worked with British intelligence during the final years of World War II. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Elon Musk said his grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, would have become a grooming gang victim if she would have been alive in modern-day England in a social media post. Elon Musk has been tweeting about the UK grooming gang scandal where British-Pakistani Muslim men raped and sexually abused thousands of vulnerable girls over a period of several years in Rotherham, Oldham and Rochdale. related stories My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her.She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression only to be bombed in WW2. To earn money for food, she cleaned Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 Elon Musk said his grandmother was one of the poor working-class girls" and cleaned houses" to buy food. My British grandmother, Cora Amelia Robinson, was an important part of my childhood. She was very strict, but also kind and I could always count on her. She grew up very poor in England during the Great Depression, only to be bombed in World War Two. To earn money for food, she cleaned houses, leaving me with a lasting respect for those who do so," he said in an X post. My Nana was one of the poor working-class girls with no one to protect her who might have been abducted in present day Britain," Musk said, drawing similarity to the background of the girls who were subjected to sexual abuse at the hands of British-Pakistani Muslim men. Cora Amelia Robinson, Elon Musks paternal grandmother, was born in Liverpool in August 1923 but later moved to South Africa. In 1944, she married Walter Musk, who was assigned to British intelligence during the final years of World War II. The couple welcomed their son Errol, Elon Musks father, in 1946. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Tuesday his government was acting" to prevent further sexual exploitation of children by grooming gangs, after days of incendiary attacks on the issue by Elon Musk. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Starmer penned an editorial in The Sun tabloid to defend his own record dealing with sex offences against children in English towns and cities dating back decades, and argue that far-right voices have tried to rewrite history". He also reiterated his opposition to holding a new public inquiry into the grooming scandal, which has hit the headlines again over the last week in large part due to Musk. Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: January 07, 2025, 21:19 IST Never Been A Better Time To Come Together: Rivals Getty Images, Shutterstock To Merge Published By : AFP Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 23:33 IST The new company is named Getty Image Holdings and will be valued at around $3.7 billion dollars. Getty Images shareholders will own about 54.7% of the combined company at closing and Shutterstock stockholders will own approximately 45.3%. (IMAGE: AP PHOTO) Two of the worlds largest picture agencies, Getty Images and Shutterstock, announced plans to merge on Tuesday in a move that will create a giant in the visual content sector. The firms intend to pool their gigantic image platforms, achieving savings of between $150 million and $200 million in the three years after the merger is completed, they announced in a joint statement. related stories The new company, which will be called Getty Image Holdings, will be valued at around $3.7 billion dollars, according to the press release. With the rapid rise in demand for compelling visual content across industries, there has never been a better time for our two businesses to come together," said Getty Images chief executive Craig Peters. By combining our complementary strengths, we can better address customer opportunities while delivering exceptional value to our partners, contributors, and stockholders," he added. Getty Images Holdings will continue to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. As part of the deal, Getty Images will offer to pay $331 million in cash and will also offer 319.4 million of its shares to Shutterstock shareholders. Once the deal is complete, Getty Images shareholders will own approximately 54.7 percent of the new entity, and Shutterstock shareholders will own around 45.3 percent. Craig Peters will be the chief executive of the new company, which will be chaired by Mark Getty, the current chairman of Getty Images, which he co-founded in 1995. A major provider of stock photography worldwide, Getty Images was first floated on the stock market in 1996 before being taken private again in 2008. In 2018, the Getty family acquired the private equity firm Carlyles 51 percent stake in the company, inheriting a group weighed down by the substantial debt incurred by its previous owners. The agency returned to the stock market at the end of 2021 in a deal that valued it at around $4.8 billion. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In April 2023, activist investment firm Trillium Capital unsuccessfully offered to buy the company at a price of around $4 billion. Getty Images is a commercial partner for AFP. Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: January 07, 2025, 20:22 IST Senators Husband Snubs Kamala Harris, Refuses To Shake Hands | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 19:44 IST Bruce Fischer avoids eye contact and declines VP Harris' handshake after Senator Deb Fischer's swearing-in ceremony. Bruce Fischers discomfort with VP Harris was visible in the viral video. (IMAGE: X) A video of Bruce Fischer, the husband of Nebraska Republican senator Deb Fischer appeared to snub US vice president Kamala Harris offer for a handshake following his wifes swearing-in ceremony. GOP Senator Deb Fischers husband, Bruce, refuses to shake Vice President Kamala Harriss hand after her swearing-in. Truly classless. pic.twitter.com/a0ZQuDV0t0 Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) January 6, 2025 related stories Harris was swearing-in Deb for her third term. Bruce Fischer, a cattle rancher from Valentine, Nebraska, and they have three sons. Throughout her political career, Fischer has been a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump. In 2016, she endorsed Trump for the presidency and extended her support in 2020 and again in 2024, when Trump also endorsed her re-election campaign. The video shows Deb gently nudging her husband to move closer to Vice President Harris. In response, Harris jokingly remarked, Its okay, I wont bite. Dont worry." Bruce smiled but did not make eye contact with Harris. After Harris conducted the swearing-in ceremony for the senator, the two exchanged handshakes. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all When Harris extended her hand to Bruce for a handshake, he appeared to decline, offering only a brief thank you" while placing his other hand in his pants pocket. Harris reacted by raising her eyebrows. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:44 IST Tell Him To Get Lost: Elon Musks Father Errol Urges People To 'Ignore' His Son Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 08, 2025, 10:03 IST Elon Musk recently took on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Pakistani grooming gangs", who have sexually abused thousands of young girls over the years. Errol Musk and Elon Musk (File) Errol Musk, father of tech billionaire Elon Musk, has openly advised the people of United Kingdom to ignore" his sons comments, after the latter dived into the UK politics through social media fiat. Just dont listen to him, thats all. Id say dont worry about it. Tell him to get lost," Errol said in an interview to LBC news. related stories The senior Musk further came down on his son over his foray into British political discourse. People dont have to listen to what he says. I mean hes just a person. The fact that he has money or something, hes a billionaire or something to that effectI mean, hundreds of thousands of people are tweeting the same things or saying the same things as he is," he added. What Did Elon Musk Claim? Tesla CEO and US DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) head Elon Musk recently took on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the Pakistani grooming gangs", who have sexually abused thousands of young girls over the years. Musk accused Starmer of being deeply complicit in the mass rapes" in order to win votes. In his X posts, Musk accused Starmer previously head of the countrys prosecution service and other Labour politicians of complicity in the scandal between 2008 and 2013. It involved the long-term, widespread sexual abuse of primarily white British girls by men of mostly South Asian origin in various northern English towns, including Rochdale, Rotherham and Oldham. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain So many people at all levels of power in the UK need to be in prison for this," Musk said. Musk also directed harsh comments at UK safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, referring to her as a rape genocide apologist" and accusing her of failing to address issues related to child abuse cases. The X owner and some opposition UK politicians are now demanding a new inquiry into the grooming gangs, despite a broader years-long national probe into child sexual exploitation concluding in 2022. Starmer Hits Back In response, Starmer defended his stance emphasised on safeguarding the victims and dismissed the Tesla founders comments. Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves," Starmer told the reporters, without naming Musk. Starmer warned of the dangerous consequences of such rhetoric, which has reportedly led to threats against public figures. We have seen this playbook many times whipping up of intimidation and of 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, then in my book a line has been crossed," he said in a statement. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Musks involvement in UK politics has drawn massive attention, including a poll on X asking whether Americans should liberate" the British from their tyrannical government." Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron had also voiced concerns about Musks increasing interference in European politics. Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: January 07, 2025, 19:43 IST Trump-Appointed Judge Temporarily Halts Release Of Special Counsel Jack Smiths Report Published By : Associated Press Last Updated: January 08, 2025, 00:09 IST The report is a much-anticipated document which describes the charging decisions of Trumps hoarding of classified documents and election overturning bid cases. Smith pledged earlier in the day that at least the volume on the documents investigation would not be made public by the Justice Department. (IMAGE: REUTERS) A federal judge on Tuesday temporarily blocked the public release of special counsel Jack Smiths report on investigations into Donald Trump as an appeals court weighs a challenge to the disclosure of a much-anticipated document just days before the president-elect reclaims office. The ruling from US District Judge Aileen Cannon may represent a short-lived victory for Trump, but its nonetheless the latest instance of the Trump-appointed jurist taking action in the Republicans favor. The halt followed an emergency request Monday by defense lawyers to block the release of a report that they said would be one-sided and prejudicial. Smiths team is expected to respond later Tuesday. related stories Trump responded to Cannons order by complaining anew at a news conference about Smiths investigation and saying, Itll be a fake report just like it was a fake investigation." It was unclear what the Justice Department, which has its own guidelines governing special counsels and the reports they are expected to produce when they conclude their own, intended to do following Cannons order. The two-volume report is expected to describe charging decisions made in separate investigations by Smith into Trumps hoarding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, and his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in the run-up to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the US Capitol. Cannons order did not make a distinction between the two volumes, instead barring the release of any information from any report until three days after the matter is resolved by the Atlanta -based 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals, unless the court orders otherwise. Smith pledged earlier in the day that at least the volume on the documents investigation would not be made public by the Justice Department before 10 a.m. on Friday at the earliest, though the decision on what to make public ultimately rests with Attorney General Merrick Garland. Trump was charged alongside two co-defendants in the classified documents case, which was dismissed in July by Cannon, who concluded that Smiths appointment was illegal. Trump was also charged in an election interference case that was significantly narrowed by a Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity. Smiths team abandoned both cases in November after Trumps presidential victory, citing Justice Department policy that prohibits the federal prosecutions of sitting presidents. Lawyers for Trump, including Todd Blanche, who was picked by Trump to serve as his deputy attorney general, urged )Garland in a letter made public late Monday to block the release of the report and to remove Smith from his position promptly" or defer the release of the report to the incoming attorney general. Using language that mimicked Trumps own attacks on Smith and his work, Blanche told Garland that the release of any confidential report prepared by this out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor would be nothing more than a lawless political stunt, designed to politically harm President Trump and justify the huge sums of taxpayer money Smith unconstitutionally spent on his failed and dismissed cases." The letter was included in an emergency request filed late Monday with Cannon by lawyers for Trumps codefendants in the documents case, Trump valet Walt Nauta and Mar-a-Lago property manager Carlos De Oliveira. They asked Cannon to block the reports release, noting that Smiths appeal of her dismissal of charges against the men is pending and that the disclosure of pejorative information about them will be prejudicial. In response to that request, Smiths team said in a two-page filing early Tuesday that it intended to submit its report to Garland by the afternoon and that the volume pertaining to the classified documents investigation would not be made public before 10 a.m. Friday. It is presumed that both volumes of Smiths report would be released simultaneously. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Justice Department regulations call for special counsels appointed by the attorney general to submit a confidential report at the conclusion of their investigations. Garland has made public in their entirety the reports produced by special counsels who operated under his watch, including Robert Hurs report on President Joe Bidens handling of classified information and John Durhams report on the FBIs Russian election interference investigation. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: January 08, 2025, 00:09 IST Who Is Pierre Poilievre? Trudeau's Arch-Rival Poised To Become Canada's Next PM Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: January 07, 2025, 12:18 IST With Trudeau announcing his resignation as Canada's PM, all eyes are now on Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the Conservative Party who is widely expected to become the next Prime Minister. Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has emerged as the top contender to replace Trudeau as Canadian PM. (Reuters/File) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday announced his resignation from the post and from the Liberal Party leadership amid widespread unpopularity, setting the stage for a new leader in an election year that polls show the Conservative Party led by Pierre Poilievre holding the edge. I am a fighter. Every bone in my body has told me to fight because I care deeply about Canadians and this country. I intend to resign as party leader and prime minister after the party elects its new leader," Trudeau said at a packed press conference in Ottawa. related stories Now all eyes are on Poilievre, who is widely expected to become Canadas next Prime Minister as opinion polls show his Conservative Party enjoying nearly three times the support of voters as compared to the Liberals. Reacting to Trudeaus resignation, Poilievre said the Liberals will continue to rip off Canadians for another 4 years, just like Justin", questioning them for supporting Trudeau since 2015 when he first swept to power. The only way to fix what Liberals broke is a carbon tax election to elect common sense Conservatives who will bring home Canadas promise," he further added. 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 ALSO READ: Who is Justin Trudeau? The Teacher Who Became Canadas Second-Youngest Prime Minister Who Is Pierre Poilievre? Born and raised in Calgary, the 45-year-old Poilievre has led the Conservative Party since 2022 and holds significant political experience, known for his grassroots appeal, that makes him the front-runner for the PM position. Poilievre graduated from the University of Calgary with a degree in international relations. He was first elected to Canadas House of Commons in 2004 and previously served as a senior cabinet minister in the government of Trudeaus predecessor Stephen Harper. He currently resides in the Eastern Ontario village of Greely with his wife Anaida Poilievre, a former political adviser, and his two children Valentina and Cruz. Poilievre rose to prominence with his aggressive criticism of the Liberal government as the head of the opposition Conservative Party as the Canadian public grew weary of Trudeau following a sharp rise in prices and a housing crisis. Poilievre has denounced Trudeaus government as radical" and slammed utopian wokeism" of egotistical personalities" of the leadership, according to Fox News. Describing himself as a life-long conservative" and champion of the free market", Poilievre has vowed to cut bureaucracy and government spending while also proposing a reduction of federal sales tax on new homes to address the countrys shortage. He has also called out Trudeaus carbon tax, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In an interview at The Jordan B Peterson podcast, the Conservative leader has also hinted at a great deal" with US President-elect Donald Trump to increase Canadas oil and gas exports to the neighbouring country and make both countres safer, richer and stronger", while rejecting Trumps assertions of making Canada the 51st state of the US. Trudeau said in his resignation press conference that Pierre Poilievre was not the right person to lead the country citing his views on climate change and freedom of speech. Poilievres Relations With India While Trudeaus bombshell allegations on the death of pro-Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar spoiled India-Canada relations, Poilievre has remained silent on the matter apart from pushing the Liberal government to show proof of the claims. However, the Conservative Party leader vowed to improve relations with India, although how he does that remains uncertain. India is the largest democracy on Earth. And its fine to have our disagreements and to hold each other accountable, but we have to have a professional relationship, and that is what I will restore when Im Prime Minister of this country," he said in an interview while denouncing Trudeau as incompetent and unprofessional". However, Poilievre sparked a major controversy when he cancelled the annual event for the Indo-Canadian community at Parliament Hill amid the diplomatic standoff, earning a strong backlash from the Indian diaspora in the country. The Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC) flagged the issue in an open letter alleging racial bias" by the Conservative leader. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Shiv Bhasker, President of the OFIC, voiced his dismay over the event cancellation stating that no explanation was given by the office of the Leader of Opposition for the event which had been organised for the last 23 years and had seen the participation of Hindus, Buddhist, Jains, and Sikhs. The sudden withdrawal of politicians from this event, prompted by the current diplomatic situation between Canada and India, has left us feeling betrayed and unjustly singled out," the OFIC said. Although issuing a clarification on the matter, Poilievres cancellation of the Diwali event raised questions on how a Conservative government would handle relations between India and Canada, currently at their lowest due to the ongoing Khalistan row. Location : Ottawa, Canada First Published: January 07, 2025, 12:18 IST A bill on amendments to certain laws of Ukraine on sending units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) to other states during martial law has been submitted to the Verkhovna Rada for consideration. The card for bill No. 12378 has appeared on the website of the parliament. "In connection with the ongoing large-scale armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine and the increasing efforts of the aggressor to further seize the territory of our state, the issue of improving the mechanisms of sending and staying of military personnel, both independently and as part of units, on the territory of partner countries during martial law, which will contribute to the acquisition of complex military equipment and professional mastery of its use to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country has arisen," the authors of the draft law said in the explanatory note. The bill envisages amendments to the laws on the Armed Forces of Ukraine and on the Procedure for Sending Units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to Other States, which provide for the possibility to send AFU units abroad during martial law to ensure security, defense and repel aggression against Ukraine in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter. In addition, the bill authorizes the President of Ukraine to make a decision on sending AFU units to the territory of other states, but this does not apply to cases when AFU units are used on the territory of an aggressor state to repel aggression, with the simultaneous submission to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of a draft law approving such a decision. Together with the bill, the President of Ukraine submits information on the tasks, the total number of the specified units, the type and composition of their weapons, military equipment, subordination, terms of stay and the procedure for their possible extension, the procedure for replacing the personnel of the unit and the procedure for their maintenance. "The adoption of the bill will create conditions for the regulation of certain issues of sending units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to other countries during the period of martial law. Its implementation will contribute to improving the process of receiving military equipment from partner countries, staffing of the relevant units with personnel and received equipment, mastering and preparation for use of which requires long training cycles," the authors of the bill said. The authors of the bill include Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence Oleksandr Zavytnevych (Servant of the People faction), Deputy Chairman of the Servant of the People faction Yuriy Mysiahin, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Social Issues in the Spheres of National Security and Defense of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence Maksym Berezin (Servant of the People faction), Chairman of the subcommittee on Security in Cyberspace, Government Communications, Cryptographic Protection of Information of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence Oleksandr Fediyenko (Servant of the People faction), and Secretary of the Verkgovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence Roman Kostenko (Holos faction). The government bill No. 12377, "On the Principles of Housing Policy," has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada, according to a Telegram post by Taras Melnychuk, the Cabinet's representative in Parliament. "This bill aims to lay the groundwork for shaping Ukraine's housing policy in line with the standards and norms outlined in the European Union's guiding documents and Article 47 of Ukraine's Constitution. It also seeks to create a conducive legal framework for attracting international organizations and donors to assist in forming housing stock," he wrote. The bill establishes principles for housing policy that align with those enshrined in international EU documents, including accessibility and barrier-free housing, inviolability of the right to housing, transparency and public participation, freedom of choice, fairness and equal access to housing, strategic planning, and social integration. The document has not yet been published on the Parliament's website. Mike Rinder, a top official of the Church of Scientology before becoming one of its most widely heard opponents, died Sunday. He was 69. Christie Collbran Rinder, his wife, said the cause of death was esophageal cancer, the New York Times reports. With actor Leah Remini, also a former church member, Rinder co-hosted a podcast and a documentary series about what they considered the abuses of Scientology. The TV series ran for three seasons on A&E, beginning in 2016, and brought him an Emmy Award. Rinder, who was born in Australia, grew up in Scientology after his parents joined the church. At 18, he became part of Sea Org, a senior level of staff members, per the Hollywood Reporter. That's when he met founder L. Ron Hubbard. Rinder kept rising through the ranks until he became essentially the church's chief spokesperson. He later said the public relations position included running smear and intimidation campaigns against the church's former members and critics, as well as journalists. Rinder said he left when he "finally decided there was no way I could change the culture of violence and abuse that had become endemic." When Rinder began speaking out about abuses he said he'd witnessed, the church denied the accusations and attacked him, saying he had been kicked out for malfeasance and "spews religious hatred." Rinder's final entry on his blog was posted on Sunday, and said he had especially wanted to stop disconnection, in which church members cut off contact with family members, friends, and anyone else considered hostile to Scientology. "My only real regret," he wrote, "is not having achieved what I said I wanted toending the abuses of Scientology." (More obituary stories.) A federal judge has found Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court for violating orders to turn over information about his assets to the former Georgia election workers he defamed. Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss won a $148 million judgment against the former New York mayor and Donald Trump lawyer that they have not been able to collect. Giuliani was questioned in court for two days in New York about why he hasn't complied with the court orders. US District Judge Lewis Liman announced his conclusion on Monday, NBC News reports. "The defendant has attempted to run the clock by stalling," he said. Liman said he'll rule on sanctions later. The judge didn't buy the defendant's explanation for not turning over the information to the women, who are preparing for a trial this month involving whether Giuliani can keep the $3.5 million condominium he owns in Florida. "He has testified that he did not respond because he suspected the motives of plaintiff's counsel," Liman said in court, per CNN. "That is not an excuse for violating the court's orders." Giuliani also testified it's difficult to keep up with his various court proceedings, which include two criminal cases and two other defamation suits tied to his attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. "Some days it is completely impossible because there are conflicting demands for material and appearances on the same day," he said. (More Rudy Giuliani stories.) UPDATE Jan 7, 2025 1:30 PM CST A New York appeals court judge has denied President-elect Trump's latest bid to delay this week's sentencing in his hush-money case. In a one-sentence ruling following an emergency hearing Tuesday, Judge Ellen Gesmer denied Trump's request for an immediate order that would spare him from being sentenced while he appeals Judge Juan M. Merchan's decision to uphold the historic verdict, the AP reports. It was the second time in two days that Trump was denied. Trump went to the Appellate Division of the state's trial court a day after Merchan rebuffed his initial bid to indefinitely postpone sentencing. Trump's sentencing remains on schedule for Friday, though he can still ask other courts to intervene. Jan 6, 2025 5:25 PM CST President-elect Trump was thwarted Monday in his bid to indefinitely postpone this week's sentencing in his hush-money case while he appeals a ruling that upheld the verdict and put him on course to be the first president to take office convicted of crimes. Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan ordered Friday's sentencing to proceed as scheduled, rejecting arguments from Trump's lawyers who said it should be halted while they ask a state appeals court to reverse his decision to let the conviction stand, the AP reports. President Biden describes himself as the most "pro-union president" in history, but economics columnist Catherine Rampell writes that he betrayed union workers by blocking Nippon Steel's acquisition of US Steel . What's unusual here is that by moving against the Japanese company, Biden gave the United Steelworkers union exactly what it wanted, Rampell notes. But she argues that both union leaders and the president might end up hurting actual steelworkers in the process. Her essay spells out how US Steel "has been struggling for decades" and relying on government help to stay in business. The Nippon deal made sense for all parties involved, except perhaps the "ego-sensitive" union leaders. Nippon and US Steel have sued to undo Biden's move, but if the deal stays blocked, a miffed Nippon might close other steel plants it already operates in the USand thus deal a blow to rank-and-file workers. Rampell's scathing take: "But long-term, if the mills close, this decision will amount to bad politicsand a tarnished legacy. Aiding and abetting an ally's self-sabotage does not make you a loyal pal. It simply makes you a craven appeaser." Read the full op-ed , in which she writes that Democrats "do themselves, and their constituents, no favors by coddling coalition members intent on doing something dumb." (More Nippon Steel stories.) North Korea has announced the successful test of a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile, further expanding its arsenal of nuclear-capable weapons. Described as a strategic achievement, the missile reportedly reached speeds 12 times the speed of sound and flew 932 miles before hitting a target in the sea. Kim Jong Un emphasized that this development aims to counter regional threats and strengthen North Korea's deterrence capabilities, declaring it as part of an arsenal "no one can respond to." This missile test occurred amidst rising global tensions and alleged cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Concerns are growing over potential technology transfers that could enhance Pyongyang's military capabilities. The test coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Seoul, where he condemned the launch, which breaches United Nations Security Council resolutions. Blinken also voiced worries about the military collaboration between Russia and North Korea, referring to it as a "two-way street" with significant implications for security in the region. In the broader geopolitical context, Kim has committed to intensifying North Korea's anti-US policy amid criticisms of US efforts to strengthen ties with South Korea and Japan. Despite the return of Donald Trump as US president, diplomatic prospects remain uncertain, with Kim's fortified nuclear stance posing renewed challenges. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP) A polar vortex has blanketed much of the US with ice, snow, and intense winds, stretching from the Rockies to Maine. This frigid dip has rendered roads dangerous, forced school shutdowns, and caused widespread blackouts across several states including Kentucky, Indiana, and Missouri. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings extending into New Jersey, citing blizzard conditions in Kansas and Missouri, with wind gusts reaching up to 45mph. The harsh conditions heavily impacted key services. Some government offices were closed, and more than 1,400 flights were canceled nationally by Monday morning. Train service was also impacted. An Amtrak spokesperson noted, "If local authorities are telling people not to travel, it's counterintuitive to try to run a full slate of services." Meanwhile, in Kentucky, highway chaos persisted, prompting the state's National Guard to assist stranded motorists. In Virginia, state police responded to over 230 crashes in just 12 hours, while hundreds of car accidents plagued Kansas, Indiana, and Kentucky. Meteorologists warn of continued dangers with the cold snap expected to penetrate as far south as Georgia, with temperatures dropping significantly below normal. Louisville and Kansas City shattered snowfall records, complicating recovery as road crews worked tirelessly. Despite the chaos, residents like Gary Wright in Missouri embraced the rare snowfall, using it as an opportunity to engage with family. President Joe Biden is closely monitoring the situation, ensuring federal aid is available to affected states. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP) Today, it is impossible to clearly state a specific date for the end of the war, in order to achieve this, we need a synchronized position of the allies in forcing Russia into the negotiation process, said Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the head of the Presidents Office. You understand that there are always insiders in the editorial offices who have access to everything at once and they know everything, but the reality looks a little different. Today, it is impossible to clearly state when everything will end, Podoliak commented on Sky News' information on the national telethon that an alleged peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia could be reached before Easter. The adviser to the head of the Presidents Office summarized that in order to achieve peace, it is necessary that all allies clearly take the same position, as well as forcing Russia into the negotiation process. And Russia's coercion is a synchronized position in public, informational pressure, diplomatic pressure, economic sanctions of a different order, military assistance, again, of a different order to Ukraine, Podoliak said. According to him, more active diplomatic work with the countries of the Global South is also needed. Two federal death row inmates prefer the prospect of death over life imprisonment. Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, both housed at the US Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, have refused to sign paperwork accepting President Biden's commutations of their death sentences and filed emergency motions in federal court in Indiana's southern district on Dec. 30 seeking an injunction to block the commutations, NBC News reports. The two inmates convicted of murder maintain their innocence and want heightened scrutinythe legal process in which courts inspect death penalty cases for errors. Agofsky, 53who was convicted of murdering Dan Short, an Oklahoma bank president, in 1989 and then convicted in the stomping death of inmate Luther Plant in 2001argues that "to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny ... constitutes an undue burden, and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, which would decimate his pending appellate procedures." Agofsky is working to "establish his innocence in the original case for which he was incarcerated" and is also disputing how he was charged with murder in the second case, according to his filing. "He doesn't want to die in prison being labeled a cold-blooded killer," his wife tells NBC. Davis, 60a former New Orleans police officer convicted in the 1994 murder of Kim Groves, who'd made a complaint against him"has always maintained that having a death sentence would draw attention to the overwhelming misconduct" he claims against the Justice Department, though his filing notes that case law on the issue is "quite murky" and there's no guarantee his death sentence can be restored, per Fox News. A 1927 Supreme Court ruling notes "the convict's consent is not required" when a president grants reprieves and pardons, per NBC. Still, Davis and Agofsky are asking a judge to appoint a co-counsel in their requests for an injunction. (More death row stories.) There are just 15 inmates left at the US military prison at Guantanamo Bay, the smallest number "at any time in its more than 20-year history," after 11 were transferred to Oman early Monday, per the New York Times . All 11 transferred men hail from Yemen, were captured between 2001 and 2003, and were never charged with a crime. Federal review panels cleared them for transfer, finding the move consistent with US national security interests. But instability in Yemen, in the midst of civil war, prevented repatriation there. In a statement, the Defense Department thanked Oman for supporting efforts "focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing" the facility, per Reuters , which shares a list of names. There were 40 detainees at the prison when President Biden took office. He's continued efforts begun by President Obama to remove inmates, who critics say have been unlawfully held for decades and poorly treated. The White House previously said Biden was determined to close the military prison before leaving office, though just three of the remaining 15 detainees are eligible for transfer. Another three "are eligible for a periodic review board to examine their cases," per Reuters. The other nine have been charged or convicted of war crimes. It's unclear what President-elect Trump plans for Guantanamo, but during his first term, he signed an executive order to keep the prison open, saying releasing detainees made the US look weak on terrorism, per the BBC. It's also unclear what Oman was promised in exchange for accepting the prisoners. The US "has typically paid host countries stipends for housing, education, rehabilitation and to monitor the activities of the men" while requiring that they be barred from traveling abroad for at least two years, per the Times. US officials said the transferred detainees would enter a program designed to help them start new lives. One of 30 Guantanamo detainees sent to Oman during the Obama administration died there. However, all others were repatriated, some bringing along families they'd started in Oman, per the Times. (A judge recently ruled that plea deals for three Guantanamo prisoners charged in the 9/11 attacks will stand.) Russia is close to sharing advanced space technology with North Korea, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during a visit to South Korea on Monday, warning that the Moscow-Pyongyang alliance continues to develop. North Korea "is already receiving Russian military equipment and training," Blinken said in a press conference from Seoul, per Politico. "Now we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang." Furthermore, Russia "may be close to reversing a decades-long policy" and recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power, Blinken said, echoing an earlier warning by the US ambassador to the United Nations, per CNN. The eldest son of President-elect Trump arrived in Greenland on Tuesday for a private visit that heightened speculation that the incoming US administration could seek to take control of the mineral-rich Danish territory. (In a Tuesday news conference, President-elect Trump did not rule out the possibility of military action.) The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jr.'s plane landed in Nuuk, capital of the vast and icy Arctic territory. Local media broadcast footage of him walking across a snowy tarmac. Greenland's government said Trump Jr. was visiting "as a private individual" and that Greenlandic representatives wouldn't meet with him. Trump Jr. is in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting. Mininnguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland foreign affairs department, told the AP that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect recently voiced a desirealso expressed during his first presidencyto acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the US, China, Russia, and others. "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," the president-elect posted on Truth Social on Monday night. "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation," Trump continued. "We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!" story continues below Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, but he has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island isn't for sale. Last month, King Frederik X changed Denmark's coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. "We are all united and each of us committed for the kingdom of Denmark," Frederik said in his New Year's address, adding: "All the way to Greenland." (More Greenland stories.) In his first news conference since being certified as the winner of the November election, President-elect Trump spoke for more than an hour on Tuesday and reiterated his desire for the US to acquire Greenland, the Panama Canal, and even Canada, reports the Washington Post. In fact, Trump did not rule out military action in regard to Panama and Greenland, notes Politico. When asked if he would refrain from using "military or economic coercion," Trump replied, "I'm not gonna commit to that. No. It might be that you'll have to do something." He added: "I can't assure youyou're talking about Panama and Greenlandno, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this: We need them for economic security." Canada: On Canada, he said he was willing to use "economic force" to acquire the nation, reports USA Today. "Canada and the United Statesthat would really be something," he said. "You get rid of that artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like, and it would also be much better for national security." U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper, who was in charge of Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia affairs, resigns, Politico reported on Tuesday. "Cooper, who spent more than two decades at the Pentagon, is probably best known for testifying to Congress over the objections of department leadership as part of Trump's Ukraine-related impeachment trial. The Defense Department didn't say why Cooper left, but given her testimony and the uncertainty over Ukraine policy, the Pentagon might have proven an uncomfortable place for her under the new president," it said. According to the publication, Cooper played an outsized role in coordinating the massive shipments of U.S. military aid to Ukraine since Russia first invaded in 2022. But Pentagon and State Department officials who worked closely with her said they feared she would have a target on her back under Trump for her testimony and ties to Biden-era Ukraine policy. We granted all of them anonymity to discuss the matter candidly. Toronto Pearson 2024 New Carriers Sun Country (launched April 2024 ) - With flights twice a week to Minneapolis , the new airline serves approximately 100,000 passengers who travel between Toronto and the U.S. city each year. (launched ) - With flights twice a week to , the new airline serves approximately 100,000 passengers who travel between and the U.S. city each year. ITA Airways (launched May 2024 ) - ITA Airways is Toronto Pearson's first Canadian destination, offering daily flights to Rome during the summer. (launched ) - ITA Airways is Toronto Pearson's first Canadian destination, offering daily flights to during the summer. Swiss International Air Lines (launched May 2024 ) - This is the second Canadian route for carrier, Swiss. The airline is offering five flights to Zurich each week during the summer. (launched ) - This is the second Canadian route for carrier, Swiss. The airline is offering five flights to each week during the summer. Alaska Airlines (launched May 2024 ) - The airline's daily flights to Seattle will help serve the approximately 142,000 passengers who travel to the West Coast city each year. (launched ) - The airline's daily flights to will help serve the approximately 142,000 passengers who travel to the West Coast city each year. BermudAir (launched May 2024 ) - With three weekly flights to Bermuda , this carrier provides passengers with direct flights to the island nation. (launched ) - With three weekly flights to , this carrier provides passengers with direct flights to the island nation. Hainan Airlines (launched November 2024 ) - After pausing operations out of Toronto Pearson for a few years, the carrier has resumed service, flying to Beijing once a week. (launched ) - After pausing operations out of Toronto Pearson for a few years, the carrier has resumed service, flying to once a week. Qatar Airways (launched December 2024 ) - With three weekly flights to Doha, Qatar Airways' highly anticipated route from Toronto Pearson unlocks a range of destinations for passengers looking to fly to the Middle East , Asia and Africa . (launched ) - With three weekly flights to Airways' highly anticipated route from Toronto Pearson unlocks a range of destinations for passengers looking to fly to the , and . Royal Air Maroc (launched December 2024 ) - With over 200,000 people flying between Canada to Casablanca each year, Royal Air Maroc has introduced three flights each week to this vibrant city in Morrocco. "Pearson is now home to 54 airlines flying to more than 180 destinations worldwide," said Deborah Flint, President and CEO, Toronto Pearson. "Continuing to grow the range of destinations available from Toronto with a wide selection of carriers for travellers to choose from, we are making strides in economic generation and increased choice and connectivity of our country. 2024 has undoubtedly been a record year for Pearson." In 2024, Toronto Pearson added 36 new routes and nine new destinations for travellers. Since 2022, the airport also added over eight million international seats and more international destinations and departures compared to any other airport in North America. About Toronto Pearson The Greater Toronto Airports Authority is the operator of Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada's largest airport and a vital connector of people, businesses and goods. Toronto Pearson has been named "Best Large Airport in North America serving more than 40 million passengers" six times in the last seven years by Airports Council International (ACI), the global trade representative of the world's airports. For operational updates and passenger information, please visit @TorontoPearson/@AeroportPearson on X. For our corporate X channel, please visit @PearsonComms. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram. SOURCE Toronto Pearson GTAA Media Office | [email protected] Greenland joining the USA could make Greenlanders the richest in the world on a per capita basis by quadrupling per capita income and the overall GDP. Based on Greenlands Self-Government Act of 2009, Greenland has the right to self-determination, including the option of independence. This seems to mean that if Greenland holds a referendum and votes to leave Denmark, Denmark would be legally obligated to respect that decision. Denmark would have to ratify it in Parliament, but this is mostly a formality. Independence would require negotiations between the Danish government and Greenlands government (Naalakkersuisut). Any agreement on Greenlands independence would need the consent of the Danish parliament (Folketing). The Danish Constitutions Section 19 requires parliamentary approval for matters affecting the realms territory. It would be a more messy (but smaller) version of UK Brexit from the EU (European Union). The US would be able to develop the third largest oil reserves in the Arctic. This is like the Alaska and Norwegian oil reserves. If the US got Greenland tourism industry up to the level of Alaska this would add about $40,000 per person. Alaskas per capita income is about $80,000 which is almost double the level of Greenland. A 25000 person military base (comparable the largest overseas bases in South Korea, Germany and Japan) would add about $3-4 billion per year to Greenlands economy. It would create 30,000-50,000 jobs. The Biden administration is set to announce a massive, final weapons aid package for Ukraine as part of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's visit to Germany on Thursday, January 9, to meet with representatives of about 50 partner nations who have come to Ukraine's defense in the Ramstein format, the Associated Press reported on Tuesday, citing two senior defense officials. The package will not include all of the congressionally authorized funding for Ukraine. "The officials did not provide an exact dollar amount but said the package was expected to be 'substantial,' although it would not include all of the roughly $4 billion left in the congressionally authorized funding for Ukraine. There likely would be 'more than a couple of billion dollars' remaining for the incoming Trump defense team to provide to Ukraine if it chose to do so," the agency said. Biden defense officials working on Ukraine have been in contact with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's transition team to discuss "all the issues that we believe are important, " one of the officials said. The package to be announced on Thursday will be drawn from existing stockpiles with a goal of getting most of the weapons pledged to Ukraine by the time Trump is sworn in, one of the defense officials said. As reported, the next meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format is scheduled for January 9. Trump's inauguration will be held on January 20. The postponement of the visit of Donald Trump's future special representative for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, is a positive signal, as it shows that the Trump administration has a deep understanding of the nature of this war, and that it is necessary to look for tools to significantly influence the Russian Federation, said Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the head of the Presidents Office. This is an absolutely positive signal, because it shows that in the transitional administration of Mr. Trump there is already a deep understanding of the nature of this war, a deep understanding of the motives of the Russian Federation, a deep understanding that it is impossible to ask Russia for something and it will respond adequately, and we really need to look for tools to significantly influence the Russian Federation, Podoliak said on the air of the national telethon on Tuesday. According to him, the postponement of Kellogg's visit also suggests that the Trump administration is diving into the information provided by intelligence agencies, think tanks, and so on, and has a clearer idea of what kind of war this is, what solutions there might be, what solutions might actually be implemented, and so on. As reported, Donald Trump's future special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, postponed a study trip to Kyiv and other European capitals until the inauguration of the U.S. President-elect, which will take place on January 20. Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a meeting with representatives of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, where they discussed Ukraine's defense needs. "There are a lot of meetings today with the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff. We talked about the packages that are available, as well as our needs. We are preparing for Ramstein in detail," Zelenskyy said in an evening video message on Tuesday. There was also a report from the Foreign Intelligence Service today on many issues, our prospects," the president said. New Jersey teachers are no longer required to take a basic skills test in reading, writing and math to get a license under new bipartisan legislation Gov. Phil Murphy signed into law last year. The bill (A1669), which sailed through the state Legislature in June, eliminates the requirement for candidates to pass the Praxis basic skills test to become teachers in the state. It went into effect Jan. 1 as the latest step in New Jerseys effort to eliminate redundant tests and streamline the process of becoming a teacher. In 2023, Murphy signed a different measure, S1553, which also eliminated the testing requirement, but only covered a subset of people seeking certification, said Steve Baker, a spokesman for the New Jersey Education Association, the states largest teachers union. That measure, which was intended to reduce teacher shortages, went into effect immediately, back in November 2023. The new law that went into effect this month covers everyone applying for teacher certification, Baker said. The New Jersey law sparked debate on social media in recent weeks. That led to posts from several high-profile conservatives including Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk that some critics say are misleading. So teachers dont need to know how to read in New Jersey? Musk tweeted Monday, referencing a story about the law from the industry publication Campus Safety. Seems like that would make it challenging to teach kids how to read. Education officials said there are still multiple other measures in place to ensure teaching candidates are qualified to teach before they are certified in New Jersey. This is just another manufactured story being pushed by people who dont understand or care about the truth, said Baker, the NJEA spokesman. To become a teacher in New Jersey, candidates must complete extensive college coursework, graduate from an accredited teacher preparation program with at least a 3.0 GPA, successfully complete months of classroom teaching experience and pass a rigorous PRAXIS subject area test based on their particular area of certification, he said in a statement. The additional requirement to pass the PRAXIS Basic Skills test did nothing to elevate standards and amounted to a corporate money grab from the pockets of successful college graduates trying to enter the teaching profession, he added. New Jersey has among the best public schools in America because we have talented, dedicated and successful teachers. The state Department of Education did not respond to a request for comment. Under previous law, teaching candidates in New Jersey had to pass the Praxis basic skills test in reading, writing and math, as well as tests in relevant subject matter for their specialty, if they did not score in the top third on the SAT, ACT or GRE. But under the new laws, those candidates can now receive an alternate certificate of eligibility if they meet the states other criteria, including having a bachelors degree and student teaching experience. They can then obtain a standard license if they teach four consecutive years in their schools. The NJEA had long lobbied for the changes, saying the generic standardized test scores could block otherwise promising would-be teachers from the classroom. But, some critics argue the move weakens standards for educators. State Assemblywoman Rosaura Rosy Bagolie, D-Essex, a primary sponsor of A1669, said candidates for teacher certification were required to pass several tests, some of which duplicated the same information. They included high school graduation exams, the SAT, the ACT, their respective higher education courses, the Praxis Basic Skills Core and a Praxis content knowledge examination. This duplication created an unnecessary barrier for candidates, especially considering the extensive number of exams required to achieve teacher certification in New Jersey, Bagolie said in a statement. The Praxis Core exam, in particular, added an extra hurdle for aspiring teachers, resulting in additional expenses for candidates while failing to reliably predict future teaching success, she said. Bagolie, a former teacher and current principal and superintendent of the East Newark School District, said eliminating the basic skills test was a step toward attracting more qualified candidates to the profession amid a nationwide teacher shortage. Teachers will still be required to take exams to demonstrate mastery of their subject areas, she said. However, this bill simply reduces redundant testing requirements, streamlining the certification process without compromising the quality of education. In another move to combat teacher shortages, Murphy also signed a law in 2022 eliminating the states requirement that teachers pass the Educative Teacher Performance Assessment, or edTPA. New Jersey was one of only 16 states to use the much-debated test, which required an 80-page portfolio and video of a candidate teaching a lesson. NJ Advance Media staff writer Brent Johnson contributed to this report. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Brianna Kudisch may be reached at bkudisch@njadvancemedia.com. A proposal to construct an Orthodox Jewish synagogue and daycare is again facing opposition in the latest round in a decades-long fight to build the house of worship in one of Essex Countys wealthiest suburbs. The Chai Center for Living Judaism is asking the Millburn Township Planning Board to approve construction of a two-story, 21,027-square-foot synagogue at 165 Old Short Hills Road in the townships Short Hills section. The synagogue would seat 275 people in a building that would also include classrooms and office space, according to documents filed with the township. Classrooms on the second floor would be used for students attending Hebrew school on Sunday mornings, and the buildings basement floor would include classrooms for a 50-student daycare, according to previous planning board meeting minutes and a traffic study. The plans also call for a playground and 95 parking spaces. The construction was proposed by the same Orthodox Jewish group that previously proposed building a synagogue in Short Hills in several applications dating back to 2000. In 2023, the group sued Millburn after an application to build on a neighboring property was rejected. The court case is still pending. The latest application for the 3.32-acre property on Old Short Hills Road was first submitted in August. It was discussed at several township planning board meetings, but has not been voted on by the board. The application is scheduled to be discussed again at the planning boards meeting on Wednesday. The planning boards attorney did not respond to a request for comment. A flyer opposing the project was posted on social media, encouraging residents to attend a previous planning board meeting in December. The synagogue project could have a significant impact in the neighborhood, including on traffic, security, parking and property values, according to the flyer. This is not a small community center, its a campus thats being proposed on a road thats already busy, already crowded, and already under strain, one resident said during the public comment period at a December township committee meeting. The man said he is Jewish and opposes the project for logistical reasons, not religious ones. He said he was concerned about increased congestion, noise and light pollution and an impact on nearby property values. What happens to that investment when a massive development is dropped in the middle of a quiet residential area? Do we shrug our shoulders and hope for the best? he asked. Or do we stand up and ask the hard questions? The center's plans also call for classrooms for a 50-student daycare. The renderings were included in the center's application to the township's planning board.Chai Center for Living Judaism The effort to build a synagogue in the neighborhood stretches back several years. The Chai Center first applied for a variance to build a synagogue in 2000, which the townships zoning board denied, according to federal court records. In 2022, the zoning board denied the centers second variance application to build a different house of worship on the same property, the records say. In March 2023, the center sued the township and the zoning board, alleging violations of a federal religious land use act, in a case that remains in court. The center also tried to build the synagogue in 2010, but neighbors fought the application, and it was ultimately unsuccessful, according to news reports at the time. Its unclear exactly how many times the center has filed a similar application. An attorney for the Chai Center for Living Judaism did not respond to multiple requests for comment. In 2023, the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey filed a statement of interest in the case, saying religious groups must not face legal barriers when establishing new houses of worship. Rabbi Mendel Bogomilsky, who is leading the Chai Center for Living Judaism synagogue project, said the new proposal has nothing to do with the previous proposals. Its a different location, different building, he told NJ Advance Media. Bogomilsky is a member of the Brooklyn-based Lubavitch Hasidic group, according to a 2010 story in The New York Times about a previous effort to build in Millburn. He declined to comment further on the new synagogue proposal, saying he did not want to be quoted in a news article that mentioned opposition to the project. The current application is proposed at 165 Old Short Hills Road, which is adjacent to 1 and 7 Jefferson Avenue, where Bogomilskys group previously tried to build the synagogue. The Chai Center for Living Judaisms current application includes a statement of support from Sieglinde K. Rath, an attorney who focuses on religious land use issues. She submitted the letter to the township in May. This application is submitted after over thirty years of Chai Centers good faith attempts to build and operate a house of worship in Millburn, and over thirty years of the Township preventing those efforts from succeeding, wrote Rath. The Chai Center needs more space for it religious activities and denying the application due to its religious uses would be a discriminatory implementation of the Townships land use regulations, she wrote. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Brianna Kudisch may be reached at bkudisch@njadvancemedia.com. A United Airlines flight bound for Orlando had an aborted takeoff from Newark Liberty International Airport on Tuesday when a possible engine malfunction caused a tire on its landing gear to deflate, the Federal Aviation Administration said. United Airlines flight 1453 was was kept at Newark after the aborted takeoff. Flight information shows the plane was scheduled to depart Newark at 10:04 a.m. The aircraft arrived at the airport from Charlotte, North Carolina, about an hour earlier, according to FlightAware. The Boeing 737-900 was towed to an airport gate, where passengers boarded another aircraft for their destination, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey told NJ Advance Media. No injuries were reported. The terminated takeoff caused minimal disruptions to other departing airplanes, the authority said. The Federal Aviation Administration said it is conducting an investigation. Newark is the New York City-area hub for United Airlines. A spokesperson for the carrier did not immediately return a request for comment. 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. A Louisiana resident previously hospitalized with avian influenza has died, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Monday, marking the first bird flu death in the United States. The patient died after contracting what officials called the first case of severe illness linked to the virus. The patients age and gender were not released. The statement did not say whether the patient had underlying conditions that contributed to his or her death. However, the CDC said it has been determined that the patient had exposure to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks. While tragic, a death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States is not unexpected because of the known potential for infection with these viruses to cause severe illness and death, the CDC said in an agency press release. The H5N1 strain of bird flu is currently widespread in wild birds worldwide, according to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services wild bird surveillance program. The virus, which has been detected in all 50 states, is also causing outbreaks in poultry flocks and U.S. dairy cows, particularly in western states, according to surveillance data. The CDC has also reported over 60 human cases of bird flu related to individuals who had close contact with infected livestock or poultry since 2024. The last reported human case of bird flu was in 2022. As of Tuesday, there have been no reported cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans, domestic poultry, or cattle in New Jersey. Although bird flu is spreading in the U.S., the CDC says the risk to the general public still remains low. No person-to-person transmission spread has been identified. As with the patient in Louisiana, most bird flu infections are the result of animal-to-human exposures. We continue to monitor the HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) situations throughout the country, said Jeff Wolfe, public information officer for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. We regularly test backyard poultry flocks, as well as birds in live bird markets for HPAI. There were no positive tests in 2024 from those samples. We also continue to meet on a regular basis with the New Jersey Departments of Health, and Environmental Protection, and Governors Office staff so we are all abreast of the latest developments concerning HPAI and how it might be affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife, Wolfe said. However, due to the ongoing outbreaks in other states, New Jersey farmers are being asked by public officials to take steps to prevent infection. New Jersey farm owners and farm workers should be aware of the risks and monitor dairy cattle, domestic poultry, other livestock, farm pets, and farm workers for signs of illness, said State Veterinarian Amar Patil in a December letter to New Jersey dairy producers. Clinical signs of H5N1 bird flu in dairy cattle may include decreased appetite, drop in milk production, thickened colostrum-like milk, abnormal feces, dehydration, lethargy, and fever. The H5N1 bird flu is a highly contagious disease with a high mortality rate in poultry. It has been detected in all 50 states. Julian Leshay | For NJ Advance M In chickens and turkeys, bird flu may cause the animal to become very quiet, not eat or drink, have diarrhea, incur swelling, and experience discolored combs and feet. Birds may also die suddenly without any signs of disease, according to the New Jersey Department of Agricultures Division of Animal Health. Wild birds, especially migratory waterfowl such as ducks and geese, are carriers of the virus and can pass the disease along while appearing perfectly healthy. Bird flu spreads most quickly through bird-to-bird contact, as its name suggests. But it can also spread indirectly, such as when birds come in contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. Other potential sources include manure, contaminated vehicles, equipment, egg flats and poultry transport crates, according to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Even though bird flu viruses usually do not sicken people, there have been some rare cases of human infection, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control said. Bird flu cases in humans have ranged in severity from no symptoms or mild illness to severe disease that resulted in death, the agency added. Human infections with avian influenza viruses can happen when enough virus gets into a persons eyes, nose or mouth, or is inhaled. This most often happens after close, prolonged and unprotected contact with infected birds or other animals. To protect yourself from the bird flu: Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, and other animals. If you must have close contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals, wear personal protective equipment. Do not touch surfaces or materials contaminated with saliva, mucous, or animal feces from wild or domestic birds or other animals with confirmed or suspected bird flu. Do not touch or consume raw milk or raw milk products. The CDC said it is watching the situation carefully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposures. Sick, unusual, or dead poultry should be reported to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health at 609-671-6400 or state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov. People can also call the USDAs toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com. Authorities in Hunterdon County are offering a reward for information about a vehicle shooting in Tewksbury in September, the county prosecutors office said Tuesday. Tewksbury police received a report of a vehicle shot in the area of Guinea Hollow Road on Sept. 20 around 11 a.m., officials said. The driver told authorities two white men in their 20s flagged the vehicle down. When the driver exited the vehicle, one of the men raised a gun and fired at the victims vehicle. The victim fled the scene, police said. There have been no similar incidents. No additional details about the incident or investigation were released Tuesday by authorities. Authorities are offering $2,000 for information leading to an arrest, officials said. Detectives with the Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office asked anyone with information that would help identify the men to contact their office at 908-788-1129. Information can also be submitted to the Tewksbury Township Police Department at 908-439-2503. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Hunterdon County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-321-0010 or through their website. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Matt on X Two women who were accused in a scheme to secretly record private conversations between the municipalitys mayor and deputy mayor at a local restaurant were accepted into a Pre-Trial Intervention program and will likely avoid jail, officials said. As first time offenders, Christina Albrecht, 45, of Flemington, and Jacqueline Hindle, 49, of Whitehouse Station, were enrolled in the program, also known as PTI, which provides them with opportunities to perform community service, pay restitution or enroll in a court-ordered treatment regimen, for 30 months, according to a release from the Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office. They were both charged last year with violating the New Jersey Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act for their parts in a scheme to record conversations between Readington Township Mayor Adam Mueller and Deputy Mayor Vincent Panico, the office said. A New Jersey doctors medical license was permanently revoked after she illegally recruited two Indian nationals to be her housekeepers for eight years, paying them next to nothing, denying them medical care, and skirting the taxes she should have been paying on their wages, state authorities said Tuesday. Harsha Sahni, whose rheumatology practice in Woodbridge has since closed, pleaded guilty in February 2023 to conspiracy to conceal and harbor aliens and filing a false tax return. She was handed a 27-month sentence in federal prison last October. Sahnis license was temporarily suspended in September 2023 as the state pursued an administrative case against her, according to a news release from Attorney General Matthew Platkins office. In its complaint, state authorities accused Sahni of violating professional standards and demonstrating an appalling lack of judgment and moral character. They alleged that her continued licensure would be inconsistent with the publics health, safety, and welfare, the release states. There is no place in the medical profession for this kind of criminal conduct and utter disregard for humanity, Platkin said. Sahni agreed to surrender her license in a final consent order filed with the State Board of Medical Examiners on Monday, a move viewed as equivalent to permanent revocation. The doctor required her victims, both of whom were undocumented, to work in her Tinton Falls home from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, paying them and their families in India between $240 and $600 a month. Sahni later admitted shed coerced both women into believing they would be arrested or deported if they reported the criminal activity to law enforcement, and instructed them to tell others they were related to her and visiting as tourists. She also prevented one of the women from receiving life-saving medical treatment, prosecutors said. When the victim began having headaches after a car accident in 2014, Sahni initially told her it would be too expensive and legally complicated to see a doctor. The headaches eventually became debilitating, however, and Sahni brought the woman to an emergency room, where she passed herself off as the womans sister and acted as her translator. Doctors found an unruptured aneurysm in the womans brain and advised her, through Sahni, that immediate neurosurgical intervention would be required. Without surgery, they made it clear, she would risk death. But despite her specialized medical knowledge, prosecutors said, Sahni pressured the woman to sign out of the hospital against medical advice and finish her regular workload as housekeeper that evening. Sahni told the woman she could only undergo surgery after she secured a replacement to work at the physicians home, according to the administrative complaint. Sahni also admitted in court that she did not disclose the labor performed by the victims on her personal income tax return, and did not pay taxes related to the womens labor, despite the fact that they were her household employees. In addition to her prison term, Sahni was also sentenced to two years of supervised release and was ordered to pay restitution of $728,327. She must also pay up to $200,000 for specific medical bills. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. The parents of a non-verbal, 8-year-old child with autism filed suit against the Howell School District on Monday accusing a school bus aide of beating their child with a grabber-reacher tool. The aide was arrested two days after the incident and charged with third-degree endangering the welfare of a child and a weapons offense along with simple assault, a disorderly persons offense, according to municipal court records. The 66-year-old aide is expected to appear in court later this month to plead guilty to simple assault, according to an attorney familiar with the case. The beating occurred on March 13 after the child got into an altercation with another student on the bus, according to the lawsuit filed in Superior Court of Monmouth County. The childs Individualized Education Plan states he should not be seated with other children on the bus, the lawsuit says. Bus security video shows the aide holding down the child and striking him multiple times with a grabber-reacher tool, while making derogatory remarks and mocking the child as he cried, according to the lawsuit. The driver witnessed the incident, but did not intervene or report the aide to school officials, according to the lawsuit. When the driver dropped the child off to his waiting father, she quickly yelled something inaudible, shut the door, and drove off without informing the father of what had happened, the suit states. The child had a cut on his hand and has suffered psychological trauma from the assault, the lawsuit said. The family said the child had been wiping his tears with his bleeding hand, leaving blood on his face. The bus is owned by First Student, a company contracted by the district to transport students with special needs and disabilities, the lawsuit states. The parents are suing the bus company, the district, the driver and the aide. A spokesperson for First Student said the company does not comment on pending litigation. District officials did not return calls and emails seeking comment. Both the driver and the aide were terminated after a district investigation, according to the lawsuit. However, the childs mother learned during a phone call with First Student on June 3, that the driver remains employed by the bus company driving in another district. Additionally, the parents claim they transferred the child to another school in the district, but district officials last week determined he should be placed in a school outside the district, according to the lawsuit. Brooke Barnett, the parents attorney, said the transfer was retaliation for the parents legal complaints. In an interview with NJ Advance Media, the childs mother said the district never offered therapy or other type of support for her son, even after administrators viewed the security video of the beating. They expected my son and my family to act as if nothing ever happened, and to go back to normal, the mother said Tuesday. But there is no normal anymore, because were traumatized, all of us. My son especially. But as a mother and father, were traumatized as well. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Faceboo Interfax-Ukraine to host discussion 'Sun, wind & biogas: how green energy will help Ukraine survive in 2025' On Thursday, January 9, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax Ukraine News Agency will host a discussion on the topic "Distributed generation. How Ukraine can survive the winter of 2024/2025." Topics to be discussed: resources and opportunities for renewable energy in the energy sector; how renewables can strengthen the country's energy sustainability; what are the prospects for exporting Ukrainian biomethane to the EU; how green generation is already helping businesses, communities, and ordinary Ukrainians; and how to preserve and strengthen professional energy personnel to protect and restore Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Participants include: Oleksandr Dombrovsky, Chairman of the Board of Global 100 RE Ukraine, President of PJSC MHP Eco Energy; Vladyslav Sokolovsky, Chairman of the Board of the Solar Energy Association of Ukraine; Georgii Geletukha, Chairman of the Board of the Bioenergy Association of Ukraine; Andriy Konechenkov, Chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian Wind Energy Association (8/5-A Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the Interfax-Ukraine YouTube channel. Admission requires registration on the spot with press ID cards. For more information, please call +38 (066) 72 72 796. President-elect Donald Trump has a top priority for the Gulf of Mexico once he returns to office. Trump told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday that he plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. He said he will be announcing the name change at a future date, adding that it will be pretty soon. Trump said he wants to change the name because the U.S. does most of the work there, and its ours. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory the Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. And its appropriate. Its appropriate, Trump told reporters in Mar-a-Lago. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), a top supporter of Trump, immediately praised him for his suggestion on Tuesday. She said on social media platform X that she will work on introducing legislation to enact the name change as soon as possible. Ill be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America! she wrote. President Trumps second term is off to a GREAT start. Ill be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America! pic.twitter.com/uFlrNkw7c6 Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) January 7, 2025 Trump has already suggested he wants to implement tougher policies on Mexico to encourage them to curtail illegal immigration into the U.S. and illegal drug trafficking. He announced late last year that he plans to impose tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China as soon as he returns to the White House. He reiterated his concerns with Mexico and Canada on Tuesday. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country. They can stop them. And were going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada, because Canada, they come through Canada too, and the drugs that are coming through are at record numbers, Trump said. Nothing is off the table. President-elect Donald Trump didnt rule out using the U.S. military or economic coercion to take control of Greenland or the Panama Canal. Trump has suggested that the new administration could try to regain control of the Panama Canal that the U.S. foolishly ceded to its Central American ally. And similar to his first term, Trump has spoken about taking over the Danish territory in the Arctic. The incoming president has cited Panamas relationship with China as a reason to move on the Panama Canal and the strategic importance of Greenland for the U.S, China, Russia and others as reasons for the U.S. to take control of the areas. Trump was asked about the use of force during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday: Reporter: Can you assure the world as you try to get control of these areas, you are not going to use military or economic coercion? Trump: No. Reporter: Can you tell us a little bit about what your plan is? Are you going to negotiate a new treaty? Are you going to ask the Canadians to hold a vote? What is the strategy? Trump: I cant assure you. Youre talking about Panama and Greenland. No, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. The Panama Canal was built for our military. Im not going to commit to that. It might be that you have to do something. Look, the Panama Canal is vital to our country. Its being operated by China. China. And we gave the Panama Canal to Panama. We didnt give it to China. Q: Can you assure the world that as you try to get control of areas like Greenland or Panama you are not gonna use military or economic coercion? TRUMP: No. I can't assure you. I'm not going to commit to that. It might be that you'll have to do something. pic.twitter.com/YbscfcOgmH Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) January 7, 2025 Panama Canal Trump has decried increased fees Panama has imposed to use the waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. He said if things dont change after he takes office this month, We will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America, in full, quickly and without question. It is a man-made waterway used to cut through the middle of Panama and connect the Atlantic and Pacific. It spares ships having to go an additional roughly 7,000 miles to sail around Cape Horn at South Americas southern tip. Greenland 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 worlds 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. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Money and legal woes werent the only things on embattled former New York City Mayor Rudy Giulianis mind this week as he fought off a contempt charge in a $148 million defamation lawsuit. The Donald Trump loyalist reportedly snapped at a courtroom sketch artist over the way he was portrayed in her work. You made me look like my dog! Giuliani said during a break in Mondays hearing, according to Reuters. He spoke to artist Jane Rosenberg, who was covering the hearing for Reuters. Giuliani reportedly asked Rosenberg to make him look nice. Giuliani was found in contempt of court Monday for failing to properly respond to requests for information as he turned over assets to satisfy the judgment granted to two Georgia election workers. Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled after hearing Giuliani testify for a second day at a contempt hearing called after lawyers for the election workers said the former New York City mayor had failed to properly comply with requests for evidence over the last few months. Liman said Giuliani willfully violated a clear and unambiguous order of this court when he blew past a Dec. 20 deadline to turn over evidence that would help the judge decide at a trial later this month whether Giuliani can keep a Palm Beach, Florida, condominium as his residence or must turn it over because it is deemed a vacation home. 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. The Associated Press contributed to this report. As parts of New Jersey dig out from Mondays winter storm that dumped 8 inches of snow at the Jersey Shore, gusty winds up to 40 mph on Tuesday could cause blowing snow. The blowing snow could cause patchy ice on roads Tuesday morning with wind chill values still in the single digits as of 7 a.m. The weather service issued an alert for blowing snow in 13 counties this morning. Dozens of school districts in South Jersey are calling for school closings and delayed openings for a second day as the cleanup continues. Cape May recorded the highest snowfall totals of 8.3 inches as of around 4:45 p.m. Monday. North Cape May recorded 7.6 inches and the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township had 7.5 inches, according to National Weather Service reports. A snow measurement in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township shows about 6.5 inches as of 12:30 p.m. Monday. More than 7 inches of snow has fallen in some New Jersey towns by Monday morning from a winter storm that still has hours to go, according to preliminary reports.Matt Dowling | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Though well see some sun on Tuesday, highs in the upper 20s and low 30s will feel like the teens as a result of 15 to 25 mph winds that gust as high as 40 mph, the National Weather Service said. Winds chills will again plunge into single digits Tuesday night into Wednesday as temperatures drop into the teens and low 20s. Tuesday will begin a stretch of dry but cold weather in New Jersey.National Weather Service Wednesday and Thursday will be about the same. Afternoon temperatures make it into the low 30s but winds that gusts up to 30 mph will make it feel frigid when you step outside despite the sun. Friday will be a bit better with highs in the mid-to-upper 30s and more sunshine. Temps this time of year in New Jersey generally range from the mid 20s to about 40. Snow is possible Saturday though the early forecasts indicate the chances of a major storm have diminished. Either way, forecasters wont be confident in any details for another day or two. Trends will continue to be monitored, the weather service said in its morning forecast discussion. The low pressure will move offshore while strengthening. It may strengthen too late for (much) significant precipitation. Current weather radar Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. The updated snowfall reports from Mondays winter storm are in and the highest snow totals were along the Jersey Shore. Scenic Cape May was the top spot for snow with 8.3 inches reported by Monday evening, followed by North Cape May with 7.6 inches and the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township at 7.5 inches. A snow measurement in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township shows about 6.5 inches as of 12:30 p.m. Monday. More than 7 inches of snow has fallen in some New Jersey towns by Monday morning from a winter storm that still has hours to go, according to preliminary reports.Matt Dowling | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com While the snow has ended, winds gusting up to 40 mph on Tuesday could cause blowing snow and icy patches on roadways. The highest gusts are expected along the Jersey Shore. Dozens of school districts in South Jersey are calling for school closings and delayed openings for a second day as the cleanup continues. The following snowfall totals as of just after midnight were posted by the weather service. Atlantic County Ventnor City: 7.0 inches at 10:21 a.m. Atlantic City: 5.5 inches at 10:47 a.m. Margate City: 5.5 inches at 10:56 a.m. Northfield: 5.0 inches at 1 p.m. Mays Landing: 5.0 inches at 7 p.m. Atlantic City International: 4.5 inches at 12 a.m. Somers Point: 4.5 inches at 1:10 p.m. Brigantine: 4.5 inches at 9 p.m. Egg Harbor City: 4.0 inches at 1 p.m. Galloway Twp: 4.0 inches at 7 p.m. Egg Harbor Twp: 4.0 inches at 7 p.m. Estell Manor: 3.7 inches at 1 p.m. Absecon: 3.6 inches at 9 p.m. Richland: 3.0 inches at 12:30 p.m. Leeds Point: 3.0 inches at 9 p.m. Hammonton: 2.0 inches at 1 p.m. Burlington County New Gretna: 2.0 inches at 9 p.m. Leisuretowne: 1.9 inches at 1:11 p.m. Mount Holly WFO: 1.8 inches at 8:30 p.m. Willingboro: 1.8 inches at 1:23 p.m. Moorestown: 1.5 inches at 1 p.m. South Jersey Regional Airport: 1.4 inches at 1:30 p.m. Rancocas: 1.4 inches at 5 p.m. Lake Pine: 1.2 inches at 4:41 p.m. Burlington: 1.0 inches at 11 a.m. Fort Dix: 1.0 inches at 12:04 p.m. Columbus: 1.0 inches at 10:35 a.m. Camden County Somerdale: 1.5 inches at 7:12 p.m. Laurel Springs: 1.5 inches at 1:30 p.m. Atco: 1.3 inches at 7:12 p.m. Bellmawr: 1.3 inches at 4:23 p.m. Winslow Twp: 1.2 inches at 1:13 p.m. Lindenwold: 1.2 inches at 1:13 p.m. Haddon Township: 1.2 inches at 5:20 p.m. Gibbsboro: 1.0 inches at 9:15 a.m. Cape May County Cape May: 8.3 inches at 4:44 p.m. North Cape May: 7.6 inches at 9 p.m. Cape May Court House: 7.5 inches at 7:30 p.m. Dennisville: 7.5 inches at 7:30 p.m. Villas: 7.5 inches at 7:30 p.m. Ocean City: 7.4 inches at 10:38 a.m. Goshen: 7.3 inches at 7:30 p.m. Rio Grande: 7.0 inches at 1:15 p.m. Green Creek: 7.0 inches at 7:30 p.m. Stone Harbor: 6.5 inches at 12:24 p.m. Marmora: 4.9 inches at 2 p.m. Seaville: 4.8 inches at 7:30 p.m. Belleplain: 4.5 inches at 2:10 p.m. Cumberland County Newfield: 4.0 inches at 1 p.m. Vineland: 3.8 inches at 2:46 p.m. Millville: 3.5 inches at 3:48 p.m. Upper Deerfield Twp: 2.5 inches at 3:47 p.m. Gloucester County Malaga: 3.0 inches at 2 p.m. Pitman: 2.0 inches at 1:40 p.m. Woodbury: 1.5 inches at 1 p.m. Washington Twp: 1.4 inches at 1:10 p.m. Hunterdon County Three Bridges: 1.1 inches at 1:45 p.m. Whitehouse Station: 0.8 inches at 12:27 p.m. Mercer County Trenton Mercer Airport: 1.8 inches at 12 a.m. Hamilton Square: 1.7 inches at 1:15 p.m. Pennington: 1.5 inches at 12 p.m. Yardville: 1.4 inches at 12:31 p.m. Princeton Junction: 1.4 inches at 1 p.m. Middlesex County Cranbury: 1.3 inches at 3 p.m. Cheesequake: 1.3 inches at 3:49 p.m. Metuchen: 1.2 inches at 1:45 p.m. North Brunswick Twp: 1.0 inches at 1:12 p.m. Concordia: 1.0 inches at 1:20 p.m. South River: 1.0 inches at 1:50 p.m. Woodbridge: 1.0 inches at 3:55 p.m. Monmouth County Freehold: 2.8 inches at 4:40 p.m. Manalapan Township: 2.0 inches at 5:15 p.m. Clarksburg: 1.8 inches at 3 p.m. Howell: 1.6 inches at 8:50 p.m. Long Branch: 1.5 inches at 5:55 p.m. Freehold Twp: 1.4 inches at 5:15 p.m. Leonardo: 1.1 inches at 2:25 p.m. Morris County Randolph: 1.0 inches at 4 p.m. Lake Hopatcong: 0.6 inches at 1:39 p.m. Budd Lake: 0.6 inches at 8:19 p.m. Ocean County Manchester Twp: 3.0 inches at 7 p.m. Toms River: 2.1 inches at 4 p.m. Little Egg Harbor Twp: 2.0 inches at 9 p.m. Bayville: 1.8 inches at 4:30 p.m. Point Pleasant: 1.5 inches at 4:30 p.m. Ocean Gate: 1.4 inches at 1:02 p.m. Barnegat: 1.4 inches at 2 p.m. Point Pleasant Beach: 1.4 inches at 3:09 p.m. Jackson: 1.3 inches at 4:30 p.m. Brick: 1.2 inches at 1:45 p.m. Manahawkin: 1.0 inches at 4:30 p.m. Salem County Upper Pittsgrove Twp: 2.5 inches at 3:48 p.m. Pennsville: 2.0 inches at 2 p.m. Somerset County Montgomery Twp: 1.0 inches at 1 p.m. North Plainfield: 0.9 inches at 4:12 p.m. Sussex County High Point: 0.5 inches at 11:40 a.m. Warren County Stewartsville: 1.0 inches at 2 p.m. Washington: 0.8 inches at 12:30 p.m. Blairstown Twp: 0.7 inches at 12:55 p.m. Hackettstown: 0.7 inches at 12:20 p.m. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. With the support of AzInTelecom LLC, operating under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, a meeting was held for members of the Azerbaijan Fintech Association (Azfina) to review the results of 2024. The event began with opening remarks by Ruslan Talibov, Chairman of the Azfina Board of Directors, and Farrukh Farajullayev, Director of AzInTelecoms Commercial Department. R. Talibov presented an overview of the work accomplished in the fintech sector during 2024. In his welcoming speech, F. Farajullayev announced that AzInTelecom obtained the international PCI DSS certification, enabling the company to provide more effective services to fintech companies. During the meeting, discussions were held on the promotion of AzInTelecoms digital financial services among state and non-state organizations, as well as enhancing the effectiveness of collaboration. Azfinas Executive Director, Azer Akbarov, presented a report on the association's activities for 2024. Additionally, Tamerlan Mashadihasanli, Head of AzInTelecoms Products and Services Department, delivered a presentation to Azfina members. The presentation showcased information about SIMA products and the newly developed self-service cloud platform, AzInCloud. The meeting concluded with discussions aimed at strengthening the fintech ecosystem. It should be noted that AzInTelecom has been a member of Azfina since November 2023. 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 7. Ahmed Ahmedzade has been awarded the "Sharaf" Order for his many years of fruitful service in Azerbaijans public sector, Trend reports. The corresponding decree was signed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. "Under Article 109, paragraph 23 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I hereby decree: To confer the Sharaf Order upon Ahmed Ahmedzade in recognition of his longstanding and outstanding contributions to civil service in the Republic of Azerbaijan," the decree states. 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 BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The Baku Grave Crimes Court has laid bare the indictment against Martin Ryan and Azad Mammadli, who have been caught red-handed for spying for France, Trend reports. During the new trial on the criminal case raised by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan against the arrested persons, Judge Elmin Rustamov explained to the defendants their rights. The defendants appeared before the court in an open trial session. The judicial panel carried out procedures related to the protection of all procedural rights of the accused. Representatives of local and foreign media, as well as employees of foreign embassies, participated in the process. The state prosecutor read the indictment, which raised serious suspicions that Ryan had been asked to gather information on military goods made in Azerbaijan, the people who served in or were in the reserve of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, and people who had studied French abroad. The indictment also talked about the staffing of the Azerbaijani Army during the Second Karabakh War. He was also told to find out about foreigners and businesses operating in Azerbaijan, as well as how French intelligence services could use Azerbaijan to send money in secret. He was also told to look into the military cooperation and relationships between Azerbaijan and the UK, Algeria, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, China, Somalia, and Central Asia, as well as arms supplies to Azerbaijan. Ryan is also suspected of establishing targeted personal relationships with individuals working in the embassies of certain foreign countries in Azerbaijan and receiving and transmitting information to a foreign intelligence agency. The indictment pointed out that Ryan organized meetings for Mammadli with French intelligence officers in a house he rented in the Sabail district and at one of the restaurants in the area. For his work, Mammadli received a promise of foreign citizenship. After the agreement with him, they communicated through specific mobile apps and his Gmail address. If the charges against Ryan and Mammadli are confirmed, they face imprisonment for a period of 12 to 20 years. During the open court proceedings, Ryan partially admitted his guilt in the criminal case and acknowledged the existence of evidence supporting it. A decision was made to continue questioning the accused and witnesses and to review documents and evidence. On February 19, the trial will resume in an open format. On December 4, 2023, authorities arrested Martin Ryan and others. They charged Ryan, CEO of Mercorama LLC, with espionage. According to the indictment, Ryan was used as a spy agent by employees of the French DGSE (General Directorate of External Security), who involved him in secret cooperation and were subsequently expelled from Baku as a "persona non grata.". Along with Ryan, Mammadli, a citizen of Azerbaijan, stood trial in this criminal case on charges of "high treason.". On December 20, 2023, the head of the French Directorate General of External Security (DGSE), Bernard Emier, was dismissed from his post after exposing a large spy network and service failures. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo provided Sisters Arts Association invites you to keep celebrating the holidays by joining the Fourth Friday Artwalk this week, through the downtown galleries. Share in our good cheer, light refreshment, and enjoy the local arts scene with family and friends. If you haven't done a Fourth Friday Artwalk because of your busy schedule, this may be your best opportunity. Space In Common owner Amelia Morton is releasing a small collection of mixed media pieces in honor of the winter solstice and the lengthening of the days. Each artwork holds a night sky painted in watercolor surrounded by a portal or explosion of light made by carving through layers of oil pastel. The pieces represent the beauty of darkness, the way we must balance rest with work, and are connected to a larger body of work coming in 2025 titled "Window to the Sky." Space In Common also continues to show the work of Sisters artist Randy Redfield through the end of December. Makin' it Local celebrates the year end and new beginnings with a group showcase of new work by Kathy Deggendorfer, Megan Marie Myers, Lindsay Gilmore, Rachel Dantona, James Parsons, Quail Lane Press, Green Bird Press, Mitch Jewelry, Julie Hamilton, Susan Luckey Higdon, Kara Frampton, Cheryl Chapman, Kari Phillips, Terri Axness, and Sheila Dunn. Hors d'oeuvres, Oregon Sokol Blosser sparkling wine, Deschutes Brewery IPA, and Makin' it Local's "famous" gingersnaps will be served. Photo provided Toriizaka Art offers up end-of-year cheer. "We have enjoyed our second year in Sisters and we look forward to thanking all of our patrons and friends on this Fourth Friday. We hope to feature our latest pride and joy, our grandson Calvin, who will be visiting from the east coast! Five Toriizaka artists have been selected for a featured show at The Coos Art Museum in their January to April exhibition. Please visit the museum to see selected works by AJ Evansen, Bui Thanh Tam, Chas Martin, Lim Khim Katy, and Nguyen Dinh Vu. Information about the show will appear on their website soon. A sincere thanks to Helen Schmidling of Sisters Gallery and Frame who graciously opens the gallery when we are not there. Please feel free to call, text or email us at Toriizaka Art for an appointment during the winter months, but if you happen to come by and we are not around, Helen is happy to unlock our space and handle on-site inquiries and sales." Sisters Gallery & Frame is staging an Equine Roundup this month, featuring the work of Kimry Jelen (acrylics and prints), Caroline Stratton Crow (watercolor), Lynn Brush (oil on linen), Kim Black (gourd wall art), Melissa Cole (mixed media), and Ann Grossnickle (pottery). "It's just a friendly 'neighborhood' gathering, so stop by." Stitchin' Post's Fiber Art Gallery's new exhibit opens during Artwalk from 4 to 6 p.m. Stop by to see block printed art works and vintage quilts by Valori Wells. Wildflower Studio, Campbell Gallery, and Hood Avenue Art will not be open for the Artwalk this month. This is your last chance for the year to take the Artwalk and sign up for $50 gift certificates awarded by Sisters Arts Association, thanks to a generous donation from Cascade Sotheby's International in Sisters. Photo provided Flying Horse Gallery at 161 S. Elm St., features original paintings and giclee prints from resident artists Brad Earl and Sloane Earl, along with selected work from spotlight artists. Brad is known for nostalgic paintings ranging from typewriters, cameras, and local favorite spots like Sno Cap. Sloane's paintings bring you to imaginative, mystical worlds of fantasy. Starting mid-January, the gallery will be exclusively showcasing the original art, and creative process, behind the new Game of Thrones book covers designed by local artists. Photo provided The Rickards Gallery looks back at some of Dan Rickards' most iconic paintings. This collection will focus on Dan's use of the elements of fire and ice. For a bit of extra heat, Wild Roots Distillery will offer tastings of spirits and wines. Gallery maps are available in every gallery location, and online at sistersartsassociation.org. We look forward to visiting with you in 2025 when the Artwalks resume in March. Have you ever wanted to learn to make your own soap? Or how to drive a tractor? How about harnessing the sun by making a solar system for your trailer or RV? These and a multitude of other classes are offered by the School of Ranch (SoR), the brainchild of Mark Gross who came from the tech sector in California to Redmond in July 2020, moving to Terrebonne two years ago where he enjoys a "national park view" and welcome silence. When needing to learn skills such as cutting down a tree, Gross recruited Kaleb Watson through Craigslist, as a "man of the land" to help him. After the tree was handled, together they developed the School of Ranch, with the mission of teaching subjects on rural living in Central Oregon. Watson has since moved to Arizona and has a branch of SoR there. Photo provided SoR aims to bring people together around common interests, including potlucks and time to share stories, thus creating new relationships. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that pays for itself through class fees, grants, fundraising, and donations. Classes are taught by Central Oregon citizens skilled in a variety of subjects. In 2024, SoR workshops were attended by 1,791 people, an 80 percent increase over 2023. According to Gross, high school students serve as paid interns who are responsible for SoR marketing materials, publishing, and registration. Tasks are posted to an internal online board, and they take the ones they want, working when and where they want. They train each other, check each other's work, and write the SoR operations manuals. They have real responsibility, real accountability, and earn $20 an hour. For every 60 hours they work, they earn one-half elective credit toward their high school diploma. A sampling of workshops coming up this winter includes a beginner-friendly workshop in Sisters to help participants learn the essentials of woodcarving, traditional soap making in Redmond, transforming seasonal local fresh foods into delicious, nutritious dishes, and raising chickens. SoR also offers a large selection of on demand workshops. When five people pre-register for a specific workshop, it will be added to the schedule with a determined meeting time. Examples include intro to safe and skilled tractor driving, practical carpentry for ranch and farm, motor maintenance and repair for women, handyman basics, and goat cheesemaking. Workshops are held throughout Sisters, Redmond, Bend, and Tumalo. One of the SoR members suggested their horse program include a horse-focused book and video club, to meet monthly starting in January. The club is free to join, but registration is required. On January 24, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Redmond, Equine Game Night Trivia will provide an evening of fun, a community potluck, and friendly competition with cash prizes, all while supporting SoR programs. Registration is required. A newer program being offered is SoR Extend, which matches skilled senior mentor volunteers with people who will help with chores while learning skills from the mentor. Retired nurse Carol Fox raises goats for fun. She wanted a volunteer interested in learning goat husbandry in exchange for help. SoR Extend matched her with Melissa Dugan, a hobby farmer interested in goats and willing to help in exchange for learning. According to their website, SoR Extend's purpose is to extend the time our seniors can do what they love, where they love. They enable people to extend a helping hand. They extend the tradition that Central Oregon is a community rooted to its land and its people. For more information about School of Ranch, and to register for any events and workshops, go to their website at https://schoolofranch.org and choose from the drop-down menu. Annual memberships are available for $100, entitling members to reduced workshop fees. The City of Sisters is well into its state-mandated, process of periodically evaluating its Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) to see if there will be enough land to meet population projections. In Sisters currently, the UGB essentially corresponds to the city limits. As Sisters' population steadily increases, with projections indicating that there will not be adequate housing inventory within the existing 1.88 square miles area, the City has invited its citizens to participate in the comprehensive study of if, when, how, and why the city may need to expand. The City has produced extensive documents, slide show presentations and held public input sessions. This has served to catch the attention of citizens who are opposed to any increase in the UGB, and they are becoming more vocal (Click here to read Letters to the Editor.). The Nugget has made contact with more than a dozen such opponents. When asked to define what no growth looks like, the answers are somewhat vague. They are more apt to describe a nostalgic longing for the city as they knew it when they first arrived. Robin Holm who moved to Cloverdale in 1978 remembers when horses were ridden to town. She, like others, are concerned about the increase in traffic if there is not a moratorium on growth. "Shut the darn door," she said. "Progress? Why? Just for the sake of it?" She says that if it weren't for her age, she'd move to Joseph, or someplace like it, where growth she claims would be naturally limited by being the end point of a road. She came from Alaska for "quaint and quiet" and wants it to remain that way. She "doesn't want Sisters to go the way of Bend." Several, like Linda Wolff (Click here to read Letters to the Editor.), are not stating opposition per se but ask pointedly why the City doesn't talk about a no-growth option. With few exceptions, those we interviewed believe this is driven by - as they say - "greedy developers." Also, without exception, those speaking out self-identify as "old," living in Sisters Country at least 20 years, but not residing within the city limits. Many of the group came to escape urban sprawl. They worry that urbanites moving to Sisters are changing the town's character. Graphic provided Craig Eisenbeis owns property that one of the possible areas of annexation runs directly through his land. "My principal observation is that this is not a legitimate attempt at 'urban growth,' because the area proposed is already fully developed and divided, and there is no possibility whatsoever of any 'expansion' in this area. It seems most likely to be a heavy-handed land grab at a larger tax base," he wrote in an email to The Nugget. Eisenbeis, like many other area residents, has had lengthy exchanges with city planners who are spending an increasing amount of time explaining the requirements for UGB planning. By self-admission, some readers tell us that despite their best effort they do not fully comprehend the ramifications. They do not want to appear as "knee jerk reactionaries," but for the most part are concerned about growth. The Nugget took Susan DeFazio's question as to "why can't the city just lawyer up and fight" to City Manager Jordan Wheeler and Community Development Director, Scott Woodford (see DeFazio letter, December 25.). They jointly responded: "We don't know of any other town or city in Oregon that has been successful in challenging state law to stop growth and suspect it would be an uphill battle, especially given the acute affordability housing challenges Sisters and the State currently face and the heightened focus from the State to increase housing supply to address housing affordability." Scot Davidson left the Planning Commission on which he served in protest to the approval of Sunset Meadows subdivision. He speaks at length and with passion - a trait among all with whom we spoke. "I have some up-close experience on how this assumption appears as a foregone conclusion, that expansion is the only answer," he said. "While I understand that state law mandates us to plan for growth and that additional housing is essential, I don't believe that suburban sprawl is the best or only answer for Sisters. "The city has diligently followed the prescribed process and reviewed opportunities for land use efficiency. By my observation, this is a process of going through the motions with the understanding that we will eventually land here. I saw little effort to push back on the state requirements or to explore more innovative ways to foster growth while enhancing the quality of life for current residents." Citizens have until Friday to participate in the Sisters UGB Expansion Online Open House found at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8118554/Sisters-UGB-Open-House. Or visit https://www.ci.sisters.or.us/community-development/page/urban-growth-boundary-amendment-faqs for frequently asked questions and updates. Roundabout To the Editor: Sometimes I think people who havent been here for over a year should be wearing some kind of an arm band. I went through the roundabout, minding my own business, when someone was laying on their horn throughout, until I pulled over to let them pass. Then I realized they were from California. Im sorry if I ruined their day. Happy New Year. Craig Cathcart Free speech To the Editor: I believe in free speech. For the individual and the press as stated in the First Amendment. Is there any responsibility contained within this amendment for the right of free speech to be given to all U.S. citizens equally? Do citizens believe that egalitarianism is inherent in the first amendment as it applies to free speech? If one considers money to be free speech does the fact that one person can contribute $250 million and another contributor might only be able to give $1,500 does this support an egalitarian argument in relation to free speech? The $1,500 is .00006 percent of a vote compared to the 100 percent vote of a person(s) that contributes $250 million. Does not seem very egalitarian to me. I believe all citizens should work toward developing a statement of the associated problem, think about a plan to get back to an egalitarian approach, work to implement it, and then evaluate if the goal toward equality is progressing. I would like to hear any ideas of moving toward fairness and equality as it relates to free speech. Vikki Hickmann Lose our voice, lose our choice To the Editor: We are so lucky to live in this country. We need to make sure those representing us are speaking the truth. We need to insure our rights, and make sure the law is upheld on behalf of all of us, not just the wealthy. Why have we let ourselves be fooled by someone who does not respect us, does not respect the rule of law? If we want to be entertained, we watch sports, a movie, our children, a joke we dont want to be watching someone make fools of us, speak ill of our country, and degrade those who cant speak for themselves. The media shines a spotlight on a man who has been found liable for sexual abuse, guilty of fraud, and an attempted coup (January 6, 2021, false electors, claims of a stolen election), of outright lies, of money laundering, election fraud, and convicted 34 times in a court of law and who is now a convicted felon, a felon. But because some find him entertaining, they excuse his ugly rhetoric. This man is to be the next President. Let that sink in for a minute. You can say these trials, held in a courtroom, with a judge, jury, proper representation by attorneys on both sides, do not mean this man is guilty, but you would not have a leg to stand on because he has been found guilty. Being rich, he can play with the truth, call the media corrupt, call the judges corrupt, call the jurists corrupt, call those who testified against him corrupt, call those who dont agree with him corrupt but when you look at the facts, with the truth staring right at you, reality sets in and you realize, this is who will be representing you. This man who will be the President has shown us in the last few weeks how he will govern, and who he wants to lead the important governmental departments of this country. A lot of those he has chosen are billionaires who paid for these positions or have very sketchy backgrounds (like Gaetz), and some are just yes-men! All of us watching this should be saying to ourselves, why is he doing this? Is he using fear and outright lies to put us in our place? Why is this man not in jail for the crimes he committed? The answer to that one is, the U.S. Supreme Court decided to give him immunity, to let him run amok and do whatever illegal acts he wishes without any repercussions when he returns. Remember Watergate, No man is above the law, including you, Mr. President.? Remember? This country was built and fought for by brave, honest, hard-working men and women and we should speak up against wrongdoing. If we dont, we will only have ourselves to blame for letting our children, our environment, and our country down. Be the one to speak up, make a difference, and be responsible in keeping this country strong, both here and abroad. Our democracy depends on it and we cant let wealthy oligarchs rule us. If we lose our voice, we lose our choice. Diane L. Hodgson Importance of The Nugget Newspaper To the Editor: Sisters and Sisters Country is lucky and blessed to have The Nugget Newspaper as a very important glue that helps make our community a community. Just imagine, if you will, what Sisters would be like without The Nugget? No local sports, City news, interesting articles, letters to the editor, and many other items of information and interest thats nice to know and know about. Where am I going with this commentary? Simple: I suggest that everyone in town that is able should make a supporting contribution to The Nugget every year. A check to The Nugget of $50-$120/year ($10/month) would go a long way to helping our local newspaper be financially healthy and a weekly part of our lives. Please dont take The Nugget for granted. They need our financial support and the new year is a good time to start. Bruce Rognlien Editors note: The Nugget appreciates the support of readers like Bruce Rognlien. All supporting contributions are earmarked to paying the freelance reporters, photographers, and columnists who provide the content that fills The Nugget each week. You can make a supporting contribution at http://www.nuggetnews.com (click Supporting Contribution button at top right); mail P.O. Box 698, Sisters, OR 97759; or call 541-549-9941. Subject of complaints To the Editor: It is becoming increasingly more heart-breaking to read a newspaper or watch the daily newscasts on TV, all of which depict yet another act of violence, crime, and mans inhumanity to man. When I read Bill Bartletts Nugget article about Wild turkeys subject of complaints (The Nugget, December 18), it served as a timely reminder of how extremely fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful community as Sisters. Mr. Bartletts article definitely put into perspective just how blessed our community is, and should give pause to those who believe that our wild turkeys are a menace and a safety issue. Consider the audacity of having to slow down/stop so that a flock of these turkeys, or any other wildlife, are able to cross the road! We should be grateful that we can afford a vehicle to drive, shelter to drive to and from, and an area in which the majority of the population remains safe, rather than being faced with crime, violence, and Mans inhumanity to Man. Perhaps I should refrain from wearing rose-colored glasses, but I believe there are far worse scenarios occurring in our world to consider and deal with rather than complaining about some of Gods creatures, great and small. If anyone only has a complaint about our wildlife interfering with our driving speed, you are indeed blessed. Janet Swarts No growth option To the Editor: Two previous Nugget letters to the editor have questioned why the City of Sisters did not pursue or even consider a no-growth option at the urban growth boundary open house. I will be the third to ask the question, and I have heard many others, along with the idea of starting a petition requesting that a no-growth option be the focus. I am very curious why there has not been a response to the question? Linda B. Wolff Roundabout art To the Editor: The stallion statue at the east entrance to the city of Sisters is iconic. It is also difficult to see given the new traffic pattern. Why not relocate this beautiful statue to the new roundabout? It would again welcome folks coming into town from the east with a symbol of Sisters past, present, and future! The city would not have to spend a fortune on a new piece of artwork; it would just have to add some boulders or metal sagebrush artwork around the stallion. Please consider relocating this symbol of Sisters to the roundabout, where it would be again highly visible. Thank you! Terry Hardin Thank you to Sisters To the Editor: To the City of Sisters and surrounding areas we would just like to thank you all, for your support and kindness over these last nearly 14 years of doing business in this great little town. First, we thank all our past and present employees. We could not have done this without you! All our terrific locals who kept us going year round! We could not have survived without you all! We came from humble beginnings with a dream to open a bar & grill and to see what would happen. People told us we would not last six months! Had a sheriff come in soon after we opened to tell us he would be shutting us down through all the DUIs he would get coming out of the bar. To others telling us, This building is cursed, every business has failed thats ever been in here! Quite the start to overcome! Then after a few years, they started saying, You broke the curse! We have had a few DUIs, but never made the OLCC watch list, we are happy to say! Also, we never had one OLCC violation in all those years. Another proud achievement for us. Lottery was a game changer. We wanted to prove that we could operate without the lottery first, and we also did that, getting the lottery in about two years after we opened! So thank you all. We had a 10-year plan to sell and retire somewhere warm. Well, we now have a home in sunny Arizona, and the sale took almost 14 years, but hey, we would not have done this without all of you! We made many lifelong friends too. Bonus! We are not saying goodbye, as we will see you all from time to time, as family still lives in Sisters. Steve will be back to help Marvin, the new owner, and show him the ropes for his first Rodeo and first summer concert. Thank you all. Have a great new year! Steve and Darcy Macey, Hardtails Bar & Grill Sometimes, when the gods are being generous, we cross paths with incredible people whose accomplishments stand apart, and whose ability to reflect the lessons of great physical and spiritual challenge encourage us to examine our own lives. So it is with Ruby Gates, 60, who is on a quest to circumnavigate the globe in her sailboat, single-handed. I met Ruby at Black Butte Ranch, where she gave a presentation after completing the first leg of her adventure - sailing her 39-foot boat Makani from Mexico to Tahua-ta, in French Polynesia. In 2024, she was the only woman to accomplish that feat alone, crossing 3,000 miles of the Pacific Ocean in 30 days. Photo courtesy Ruby Gates This was only the beginning of her voyage which, when she is finished, will put her in the rarified air of the world's great adventurers. On this leg, she encountered a de-masted ghost ship, the almost hallucinatory appearance of a sailing drone, onboarding squid, a great line of threatening squalls, whales that kept her up on constant watch for fear they would surface beneath her vessel and destroy the rudder, and a frightening brush with a mystery boat that might have been - and behaved like - pirates. These are some of the raw facts of her adventure, beautifully recorded in her online blog, but I wanted to know what drives someone to embrace this kind of challenge, mindful that the world's oceans are still the last frontier, still full of incredible dangers but likewise incredible payoffs - an irresistible siren song for those with an ear to hear it. At 50, having raised two daughters and built her own businesses, Ruby was invited to sail from Dutch Harbor, Alaska, to Australia. She knew nothing about sailing but was in a place in her life that the answer could only be "Yes." "I didn't even know what to be scared of," she says, but over the next seven months she sailed over 8,500 miles across the North Pacific and into the South Pacific, from Kiribati to Samoa, Tonga to Fiji, from New Caledonia to Brisbane. The hook was set, and what followed was a sudden, thorough, and life-changing obsession. She sold her house. She sold her businesses. And for the next seven years she sailed the world, learning to be a sailor in the ancient waters of the Mediterranean, Mexico, and French Polynesia. Photo courtesy Ruby Gates It's probable that most of us, at one time or another, have considered such drastic changes in our own lives. But most of us won't act. Maybe it is a kind of divine conversion, a sudden awareness that there are alternatives to how we live, that a parallel universe still exists. It would be easy, and an enormous mistake, to underestimate the courage it takes to embrace the radical re-direction that Ruby chose. And maybe that was my answer. Maybe that thing, that courage and unwavering commitment, is what makes the difference between real adventurers and the rest of us, who throw foam bricks from the sofa and only wish we had the guts. "Fear is a fantasy," Ruby told me. "It can define a vision of us" and so become crippling and preventative. She sees it sometimes in her students - she teaches five women a year to sail - who come to learn sailing with a limited vision of themselves. Ruby, like all great teachers, helps them defeat their fears by teaching them to concentrate on the task at hand, to master one thing at a time, like the complicated demands of properly anchoring a boat. Over time, she says, her students begin to realize that their own potential far outweighs their fears. Out at sea, which is a lonely place on the very best of days, Ruby has routines to keep herself focused on the relentless nature of single-handed sailing - meditation and breathing techniques she learned from free divers. And it is precisely those demands, the life-affirming responsibilities, that motivate her. At sea, Ruby told me, "You don't worry about the color of your lipstick. There is too much to do, and the distractions are gone. You wake up to how stupid stuff is, how we are habituated to external noises. It's almost a reboot. You get to be alive in a certain way." Which may be something the rest of us are missing. This "certain way" is demanding. It's physically engaged. It's both primal and mentally charged by the awesome responsibility of measuring risk, minute-by-minute, hour-by-hour, day-by-day. But the reward is enormous. Approaching land at the end of her journey, whose lushness she could smell before she could see, Ruby wrote: "My last night at sea invites all the squalls and seas and swells and rains into one final midnight party. We rage all night like teenagers whose parents are gone for the weekend. I kiss the wind and dance with the squalls. I'm grateful, I'm relieved, I'm happy with accomplishment and humbled by the fragility of my life." Soon, Ruby will return to Tahiti, where Makani waits at anchorage, the sails stored safely belowdecks. It will be cyclone season. And then she will set sail again. For herself, certainly, but maybe also for the rest of us, who need someone like Ruby to remind us that life is much, much, larger than we sometimes think it is. And, as ever, for the living. You can follow Ruby Gates on her website seanixie.com, and on Instagram #rubyatsea. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. President of International Automobile Federation Mohammed Ben Sulayem 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 on December 25 near Aktau, Kazakhstan, Trend reports. "Your Excellency, It is with profound sadness that I write to extend my deepest condolences to you, the people of Azerbaijan, and especially the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the recent Azerbaijan aircraft crash in Kazakhstan. The entire FIA community stands united in grief with your nation during this difficult time. As you confront the pain and loss brought about by this devastating event, please know that our thoughts are with you and all those affected. In moments such as these, words often fall short, but it is my hope that the solidarity of the International community offers some measure of comfort. The courage and resilience of the Azerbaijani people in the face of such hardship inspire us all. Please accept my personal sympathies and those of the FIA family. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all those mourning in Azerbaijan and beyond. May the memory of those lost be a source of strength and their legacy a guiding light as you move forward together," the letter reads. Members of the American Historical Association, the countrys largest group of professional historians, approved a resolution on Sunday evening condemning Israels military action in Gaza. It argued that the destruction of most of the enclaves education infrastructure, along with many archives and libraries, amounted to scholasticide. The vote came during the groups annual meeting, which drew nearly 4,000 of its more than 10,000 members to Manhattan for four days of scholarly panels and discussions. Several members described raucous debate over the measure, which was approved by a vote of 428 to 88, despite signals that it was opposed by some of the groups senior leadership. On Monday, the measure moved to the groups elected council, which under its bylaws can endorse the measure, veto it or decline to concur, which would send it within 90 days to the entire membership for ratification. Later that afternoon, the groups executive director, James Grossman, said that the group had a vigorous discussion of the resolution, and has postponed a decision on how to act until its next meeting, which will be within a few weeks. The resolutions passage suggested a new phase in the cultural battles over the Israel-Hamas war, which began after the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and the intense Israeli military response that has left much of the enclave in ruins. Fallout has rocked campuses and cultural organizations across the United States, and contributed to the resignations of a number of university presidents. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada said yesterday that he would step down as Liberal Party leader and prime minister. The decision by Trudeau, who has led the country for nearly a decade, means that new leadership will take over in Canada by late March after his party picks a new head. Heres the latest. Trudeau has faced weeks of mounting pressure from inside his partys ranks. In December, his deputy prime minister and finance minister, Chrystia Freeland, abruptly stepped down in a stinging rebuke of his leadership. Her resignation led to Liberal parliamentarians asking Trudeau to step aside so someone else can lead the Liberal Party against the Conservatives in the October general election. Whats next: Trudeaus resignation sets off a succession battle to replace him. The upheaval comes as the country is grappling with how best to deal with President-elect Donald Trumps pledge to impose crippling tariffs on all imports from Canada on his first day in office. Canada and the U.S. are each others biggest trading partners. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. This years Global Baku Forum will place a special emphasis on critical global topics such as climate change and artificial intelligence (AI), said Ilaha Ibrahimli, Deputy Secretary-General of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC), Trend reports. In an interview with Trend, Ibrahimli revealed that the forum will take place from March 1315. "The event will kick off with a focus on global challenges on the first day. On the second day, regional issues and potential solutions will take center stage, while the third day will address thematic topics including healthcare, environmental protection, AI, and education. This years forum would address crucial issues such as geopolitical instability, climate change, the transformative power of AI, the active participation of women in climate change initiatives, and universal healthcare accessibility. The forums priorities are designed to tackle emerging challenges and offer strategic approaches for the future," Ibrahimli said. The official articulated that the primary objective of the forum is to catalyze dialogues on urgent global challenges and investigate pragmatic, sustainable resolutions. She also indicated that the preparatory phases for the Global Baku Forum had successfully navigated multiple critical milestones. "Our preparation began with a high-level meeting in New York during the United Nations session in September, followed by discussions at the Imperial Springs forum in Madrid in December. Additionally, members of the organization met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the forum hosted by the UN Alliance of Civilizations in Cascais. Currently, preparations continue with our upcoming meeting in Geneva, in cooperation with the UN Office in Geneva, scheduled for January 16-17. This event will include a 'roundtable' where topics for the forum will be discussed, along with participant engagement, international organizations, and other important matters," Ibrahimli added. She concluded by underlining that the Global Baku Forum aims to be a platform for open dialogue and constructive solutions to global challenges. "Over the years, this forum has evolved from a regional initiative into a well-recognized international event addressing critical issues such as global security, sustainable development, and international cooperation. It organizes special sessions for young leaders, providing them with a platform to voice their ideas and influence policy. These sessions allow young leaders to present solutions to global problems, raising issues that concern them directly before world leaders. Among the key concerns are the growing focus on climate change, enhancing the effectiveness of international organizations, global inequality, and ensuring women's participation in international organizations. The forum adapts to the changing dynamics of the world and builds strong relationships with new partners, including the World Health Organization, the United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS, the United Nations Development Programme, the UN Alliance of Civilizations, and others. By uniting diverse stakeholders, the forum strives to develop cooperative approaches for addressing global problems effectively," she said. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel That doesnt mean the problem is resolved; Alexis Jay, the academic who headed up a national inquiry into the abuse, has said that few of the recommendations in her comprehensive 2022 report have been carried out. But the crisis has been out in the open for some time, even if Elon Musk only recently decided to make it a cause celebre. If youve been on X in recent days, you might have the impression that there has been some major new development in this awful story. Musk, the platforms owner, has been posting about it incessantly, smearing Jess Phillips, the Labour minister overseeing issues of violence against women and girls, as a rape genocide apologist and calling for her imprisonment. Hes also called for the jailing of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and urged Britains king to dissolve Parliament and call new elections, something the monarch cannot do. As the worlds richest man and a quasi-official member of Donald Trumps team, Musk has enormous influence, and his admirers in both the United States and Britain have taken up the cause. Kemi Badenoch, head of the Tories, is demanding a new national investigation, which her party easily could have undertaken when it was in power until last year. Starmer, in turn, was forced to address Musks claims on Monday. In this uproar, were seeing a particularly feral right-wing version of an old-fashioned Twitter mob, but with far higher stakes. Musk is using a genuine atrocity to pursue his campaigns against both Starmer, with whom he has a long-running feud over the regulation of social media, and against mass immigration. The visceral horror of the underlying story especially to people who are only just discovering it gives his demagogic attacks a sheen of righteousness. But much of what hes saying about the current governments culpability is either distorted or flatly untrue, part of his increasingly vigorous crusade against the worlds remaining liberal leaders. The proximate cause of Musks ire is Phillipss rejection of a request by the town of Oldham to open a national inquiry into the history of grooming and child sexual exploitation there. Phillips said the investigation should be commissioned locally, as those in the towns of Rotherham and Telford were. I have no idea whether this was the right decision, but its not a shocking one; as The Independent reported, the previous Tory government turned down Oldhams request for the same reason. But to Musk and his followers, its proof that Phillips, a woman with a long feminist history, is engaged in a monstrous cover-up meant to protect Starmer, the countrys director of public prosecutions from 2008 to 2013. NATIONAL An article on Sunday about the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom misstated which child of Robert F. Kennedys accepted the medal on his behalf. It was Kerry Kennedy, not Kathleen Kennedy. OBITUARIES An obituary on Sunday about the Swiss-born socialite Jocelyne Wildenstein misstated the location of the Versace mansion, where Lloyd Klein proposed to Ms. Wildenstein. It is in the city of Miami Beach, not Miami Errors are corrected during the press run whenever possible, so some errors noted here may not have appeared in all editions. To contact the newsroom regarding correction requests, please email nytnews@nytimes.com. To share feedback, please visit nytimes.com/readerfeedback. Comments on opinion articles may be emailed to letters@nytimes.com. For newspaper delivery questions: 1-800-NYTIMES (1-800-698-4637) or email customercare@nytimes.com. The most famous street in New Orleans, lined with iron lace balconies and typically packed with tourists spilling from bars and jazz clubs, transformed into a crime scene on Jan. 1 when a man drove a pickup truck into crowds celebrating the dawn of the new year. By Monday, a stretch of Bourbon Street had become a memorial to the 14 people killed in the attack there, and President Biden flew in to speak at a vigil for the victims, declaring that the city would overcome what he called a horrific act of terrorism. In the St. Louis Cathedral, Mr. Biden addressed a crowd that included Gov. Jeff Landry of Louisiana, a Republican, and Mayor LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans, as well as local law enforcement officials in uniform. The cathedral was still decorated for Christmas, with red poinsettias in gold-foil-wrapped pots lining the interior, and trees at the front of the nave topped with bows. If theres one thing we know, New Orleans defines strength and resilience you define it, Mr. Biden said, as the crowd murmured amen. A gunman was arrested after killing a security guard and injuring another person outside the Honduran consulate near Atlanta on Monday afternoon, officials said. The suspect, Jose Emanuel Olmo Rosado, was taken into custody at a QuikTrip station down the road from the consulate after he ran from the scene, said Emily Heenan, the spokeswoman for the city of Doraville, Ga., which is about 16 miles northeast of Atlanta. Before the shooting, Mr. Olmo tried to enter the consulate building with a weapon, which is not allowed, Foreign Minister Enrique Reina of Honduras said in a statement. He added that the security guard who was killed, Jesus G. Loera Urias, was of Mexican nationality and worked for a private security company. On Monday night, Mr. Reina said in a social media post that the authorities in Atlanta thought that the gunman, who was initially believed to be Honduran, was of Puerto Rican origin. Mr. Reina said in his post that the gunman was the partner of a Honduran citizen who was completing paperwork at the consulate. The photograph was an immediate symbol of Jan. 6, 2021: a man in bluejeans and a thick plaid overshirt reclining in the chambers of then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi, with a smile on his face and his boot resting atop a black spiral notebook on a corner of a desk. The smirk and the lug-soled boot belonged to Richard Barnett, a 64-year-old former window salesman from Gravette, Ark., who goes by Bigo. He used his time in the office to pocket an envelope with the speakers letterhead and scrawl a crude note to Pelosi herself. But it was the photo of him that really lasted, maybe because of the way it mixed vandalism with the threat of violence he had a stun device on him and encapsulated the rioters mockery of the countrys democratic institutions. Washington looked nothing like that on Monday, as lawmakers in a quiet and snow-covered Capitol certified President-elect Donald Trumps November victory. The Bigos of the world have no complaints about this election. But the tale of his last four years in which he was convicted and sentenced and seemingly tried to trade on his fame is just as revealing as that first picture. He spent today in a low-security federal prison in Seagoville, Texas, a place where inmates arent allowed to have internet access but from which he manages to transmit his thoughts on social media all the same. These days, hes a hero on the right whose fortunes may well be tied to those of a president-elect who has promised to pardon people like him. What happens when you put your boot on a desk in the speakers office? For better or worse you have become one of the faces of Jan. 6, Judge Christopher Cooper told him last year, and I think you enjoy it. The Defense Department has reached a sweeping settlement with tens of thousands of people who were dismissed from military service because of their sexual identity, potentially paving the way for veterans to upgrade their discharge status and receive a range of benefits they had been denied. The settlement, which the Pentagon agreed to late last week and was filed on Monday in Federal District Court in Northern California, must still be approved by a judge. It applies to a group of more than 30,000 veterans who received less-than-honorable discharges or whose discharge status lists their sexuality. Advocacy groups had filed a class-action civil rights lawsuit in 2023 alleging that the Pentagon had failed to remedy ongoing discrimination after the repeal of the militarys dont ask, dont tell policy more than a decade earlier. Those who leave the military with less-than-honorable discharges usually do not receive all of the benefits they would have been eligible for through the Veterans Affairs Department, including health care from the V.A.s hospitals and clinics, educational benefits and access to job networks. While the Defense Department has taken steps under the Biden administration to upgrade discharges and restore benefits for L.G.B.T.Q. veterans, the settlement is expected to make the process much easier. It would also help former service members remove references to their sexuality from their discharge paperwork. If a federal judge approves the settlement, it will be binding by law. An American man was killed when a Mexican police officer opened fire on the car he was driving in Ciudad Juarez, across the border from El Paso, Texas, the Mexican authorities said on Monday. A regional prosecutor in the state of Chihuahua, Carlos Manuel Salas, said the shooting occurred on Sunday as the officer was accompanying a staff member from the prosecutor's office, who was serving a warrant. The two were on foot when a Mustang with New Mexico license plates suddenly accelerated in their direction, according to Mr. Salas. He said the officer opened fire as the driver tried to flee. Mr. Salas said the officer was in custody and that the shooting, which was captured on video by a passenger in the car, would be investigated by the internal affairs division of the state prosecutors office. At a news conference, Mr. Salas described the incident as regrettable and urged the public to refrain from drawing conclusions until the investigation was complete. But he appeared to offer a defense of the officer, whose name was not released. According to Mr. Salas, the vehicle was traveling at high speed and skidded as it approached the officer, almost hitting him. The driver was wearing a hood, he said. Several aftershocks were felt in the area, including in Nepal. The quake had a magnitude of 7.1, according to the United States Geological Survey, though it was measured as 6.8 by the China Earthquake Networks Center. The nearest city to the earthquakes epicenter was Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, with a population of 640,000. Shigatse is home to the vast, centuries-old Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most senior figures in Tibetan Buddhism. State media said that no damage to the monastery had been reported so far. Tibet is one of the most inaccessible and underdeveloped parts of China. Security has been heightened for decades because of tensions between Beijing and Tibetans, many of whom have long struggled to maintain their religious freedom and cultural identity in a country dominated by Han Chinese. International journalists are forbidden from traveling independently in the region. Scenes of destruction were broadcast on state media and shared on social media. A tourist not far from Shigatse who spoke to The New York Times said she was in her hotel room when the earthquake started shaking her building. She said that the electricity went out and that she and a friend had squatted between the beds. When the shaking stopped, they ran out of the building. A top U.S. envoy who helped broker the cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah issued reassurance on Monday that Israel would withdraw fully from southern Lebanon, as called for in the fragile 60-day truce deal that paused the bloodiest war between the two sides in decades. Speaking to reporters in Beirut, the Lebanese capital, the envoy, Amos Hochstein, said that Israeli troops had pulled out on Monday from the southern town of Naqoura. In a statement, the Lebanese military said it had redeployed in the town, after the Israeli withdrawal. These withdrawals will continue until Israeli forces are fully out of Lebanon, Mr. Hochstein said after meeting with senior Lebanese officials. Theres been much progress in recent days, and I expect to see additional progress being made in the days to come. Although the truce reached in late November continues to hold, there is growing frustration among Lebanese and Israeli officials about the pace at which the cease-fire agreement is being carried out, with the deadline fast approaching for the terms to be fulfilled. It becomes really pleasurable you feel like youre not really working and I have an amazing team of people who I feel almost are my extended family because I spend so much time with them, she said. My office is my home in a way. There is an unmistakable power to Escobedos presence, in part because of her striking Frida Kahlo-esque beauty (pronounced eyebrows), though she said she is not named after the artist. She spends half her time in Mexico City and says its influences are deeply ingrained, along with the spirit of independence that drove her to establish an architectural practice in Mexico City at just 23 years old. I never worked for another studio, she said. I started my office when I was very young, and then of course there was very little money to develop the projects that I was trying to do. The idea of trying to do more with less was always present, and how to achieve that with simple materials and rather than depending on supersophisticated detailing or rich, complicated finishes. It was more about the big gesture, she continued. What does it say? How do you play with light and these other more simple means to achieve something that feels interesting and engaging? Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree amending several previous presidential orders in line with the implementation of the law "On Amendments to the Tax Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan," Trend reports. The document outlines procedures for the refund of value-added tax (VAT) paid by foreigners and stateless individuals for goods not intended for production or commercial purposes when transported by air or sea from the territory of Azerbaijan, per customs legislation. It also covers VAT refunds for medical services provided by healthcare institutions and individuals engaged in private medical practice to foreigners and stateless individuals. The VAT reimbursement for healthcare services is contingent upon individuals departing the jurisdiction within a 90-day window post-medical intervention and is exclusively valid if the transaction was executed through non-cash modalities. In the realm of service provision pertaining to theatrical productions, cinematic exhibitions, museum excursions, and orchestral symphonies, the value-added tax reclamation is quantified at 50 percent of the VAT, contingent upon the stipulation that the transaction was executed via electronic payment methods. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel When the Scottish playwright David Harrower set out to script a TV adaptation of The Lockerbie Bombing: A Fathers Search for Justice Jim Swires skeptical book laying out who he believed was really responsible for the deadliest terrorist attack in British history he had to ask himself: What if Swire was wrong? In 1988, Swires daughter was one of 270 people killed in the bombing of an American jetliner, Pan Am Flight 103, the wreckage of which crashed in the remote Scottish town of Lockerbie. His book, co-written with Peter Biddulph, argues that Abdel Basset Ali al-Megrahi, a Libyan man convicted over the bombing, was set up by his government, that his trial was effectively a sham, and that the entire investigation was cloaked in lies and coverups. The book is driven by righteous certainty which Harrower wanted to avoid onscreen. Swire is such a dogged, driven figure, completely confident about what he believes in, Harrower said. But, he added, There are other people in the world who believe the opposite of what he believes. So I couldnt make a drama without asking, What if all this is actually driven by grief? Lockerbie: A Search for Truth, now airing on Peacock, is about Swires decades of campaigning and research, but the series is not a hagiographical treatment, Harrower said. Instead, the show is as much about the nature of obsession as it is about justice. Wildfires are spreading rapidly in Los Angeles, fanned by a fierce windstorm. Gusts of up to 100 m.p.h., stronger than any the region has seen in a decade, are forecast to blow through the night. Heres the latest. The flames are threatening Pacific Palisades, an affluent coastal neighborhood that is home to about 24,000 people, roughly 20 miles west of downtown Los Angeles. Officials ordered residents to evacuate immediately. Part of the Pacific Coast Highway and several nearby schools were closed. The regions electricity provider said it was preparing to cut power to as many as 419,000 customers as a pre-emptive measure to keep wildfires from sparking under high wind conditions. This is about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather, forecasters said. Southern California is extremely dry right now, especially for this time of year. Last month, a fire threatened the Malibu area. Officials are even more concerned this time because the windstorm is projected to affect a broader, more populated region. Joel Kaplan, Metas new chief global affairs officer, played a leading role in Tuesdays content moderation announcement. In an exclusive interview on Fox and Friends, Mr. Kaplan said the companys previous fact-checking system became too biased and the company wanted to return to its roots of more unfettered speech. He pointed to Elon Musks X, which has few rules and allows users to moderate each other, as a good model. This is a great opportunity for us to reset the balance in favor of free expression, Mr. Kaplan said in the interview. It was a striking debut by the longtime Republican lobbyist for Meta, who was named to the top policy role last week. Mr. Kaplan, 55, has close ties in the Trump administration and his promotion was seen as the companys attempt to best position itself for the incoming president. The bulk of the eliminated positions are coming from The Posts advertising division. Johanna Mayer-Jones, The Posts chief advertising officer, said in a memo to employees on Tuesday that 73 positions under her purview were being eliminated, and that The Post would prioritize connecting advertising clients to our subscriber base. There were further reductions elsewhere at The Post. Kathy Baird, The Posts chief communications officer, said in a memo that the public relations team was repositioning itself to focus on promoting talent and would stop the dedicated practice of publicity for our journalism. Those changes resulted in layoffs on her team. Candidly, the moment facing both the industry and The Washington Post requires a reinvention of the established publicity function to develop more strategic practices for greater impact and success that are rooted in our talent, Ms. Baird wrote. The Washington Post has struggled to turn a profit in recent years, as its digital subscription business has failed to offset declining print revenue and the cost of its newsroom. Will Lewis, the publisher of The Post, said in a meeting last year that in 2023, The Post lost $77 million and had suffered a falloff in its digital audience since 2020. The Post has been in turmoil for much of Mr. Lewiss tenure, which began a year ago. Sally Buzbee stepped down as the papers executive editor in June. Rob Winnett, the editor Mr. Lewis had initially selected to replace Ms. Buzbee, withdrew himself from that position. The newspaper also experienced a backlash among its subscribers over a decision to end its decades-long practice of endorsing presidential candidates. Ann Telnaes, the newspapers Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist, stepped down last week after the opinions section rejected a cartoon depicting Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder and owner of The Post, genuflecting toward a statue of President-elect Donald J. Trump. The word febrile has appeared in 26 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year, including on May 20 in The Disease Detectives Trying to Keep the World Safe From Bird Flu by Stephanie Nolen: The U.S.A.I.D. has invested $30 million in Cambodias avian influenza response since 2006, and the World Bank has added $19.5 million from its new Pandemic Fund. Hospitals in Cambodia are now required to send the national lab five samples a month from patients with febrile illnesses, and samples from anyone with a severe respiratory illness. The agriculture ministry has similar requirements for livestock. Daily Word Challenge Can you correctly use the word febrile in a sentence? Based on the definition and example provided, write a sentence using todays Word of the Day and share it as a comment on this article. It is most important that your sentence makes sense and demonstrates that you understand the words definition, but we also encourage you to be creative and have fun. If you want a better idea of how febrile can be used in a sentence, read these usage examples on Vocabulary.com. You can also visit this guide to learn how to use IPA symbols to show how different words are pronounced. If you enjoy this daily challenge, try our vocabulary quizzes. She was burned so badly that it took the medical examiners office more than a week to identify her remains. In his interrogation, Mr. Zapeta-Calil said he did not remember any of that. He said he began drinking shortly after he left his job as a construction laborer the night before the killing. He had no memory of seeing Ms. Kawam, no memory of the attack and no memory of when or how he boarded the train, he said. Sometimes when I drink and erase the memory and I dont know, he told investigators. When I wake up, Im already in the house, already sleeping. I wake up when Im already at home. Or there are times when I wake up and Im already at the train station. Federal immigration officials said Mr. Zapeta-Calil is an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala who had been deported in 2018. He later returned illegally to the United States and was living in a homeless shelter in Brooklyn for men with drug problems, according to the address he gave the police after his arrest. Immediately after the attack, the Police Department circulated images of the assailant. The department quickly received a tip from a group of teenagers who believed they had seen the man on another train in Brooklyn. Stanley Feldman, a political scientist at Stony Brook University, wrote by email that a substantial fraction of Trump (MAGA) supporters believe that demographic change and changes in gender norms are a threat to their way of life and to their status in American society. Most importantly, Republicans (and influencers) have successfully convinced many people that Democrats and liberals are directly responsible for creating and supporting the social forces that they are frightened of. Some Democrats, Feldman wrote, are talking about toning down rhetoric on hot-button social issues like transgender rights and taking a harder line on immigration. Its true that it would benefit Democrats if these sorts of issues became less politically salient. Im not sure how easy this will be, however. How much can Democrats move away from being a socially inclusive party without alienating some of their supporters? And how far would Democrats have to moderate their positions and rhetoric on social issues to prevent Republicans from continuing to paint them as out-of-touch urban liberals who care more about L.G.B.T.Q. rights than the plight of white workers? Just think about how many anti-trans ads the Trump campaign ran against Kamala Harris. It doesnt take much to play on peoples fears and create easy targets. Along similar lines, Mohammad Atari, a professor in the department of psychological and brain sciences at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and director of the universitys Culture and Morality Lab, wrote by email that the combination of the perceived elite status of many Democratic leaders and their lack of emotional resonance can indeed make their policy proposals feel empty, or even disingenuous, to working-class voters. This disconnect stems from both cultural and emotional dynamics that influence how policies are received, irrespective of their actual merits. This elitism perception is not just about education but also about lifestyle and values, which may seem out of touch with the struggles of working-class folks. When proposals are delivered in a tone that reflects elite sensibilities, they risk being dismissed as not for us. Almost everywhere you look, Fareed Zakaria, a columnist at The Washington Post and an analyst at CNN, wrote on Jan. 4, the left is in ruins. Of the 27 countries of the European Union, only a handful have left-of-center parties leading government coalitions. The primary left-of-center party in the European Parliament now has just 136 seats in a 720-seat chamber. Even in countries that have been able to stem the rise of right-wing populism, such as Poland, it is the center-right that is thriving, not the left. And in the United States, of course, the breadth of Donald Trumps victory nearly 90 percent of U.S. counties moved right suggests that it is very much part of this trend. In Zakarias view, the problems of the left are caused by its failures: The crisis of democratic government, then, is actually a crisis of progressive government. People seem to feel that they have been taxed, regulated, bossed around and intimidated by left-of-center politicians for decades but the results are bad and have been getting worse. Zakaria warned: If Democrats do not learn some hard lessons from the poor governance in many blue cities and states, they will be seen as defending cultural elites, woke ideology and bloated, inefficient government. That might be a formula for permanent minority status. In a reflection of the scope of dispute on these issues, Charles Kupchan, a professor of international affairs at Georgetown and a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, declared in an email: I fundamentally disagree with the proposition that Trumps re-election is a watershed moment marking the demise of the progressive cause. Instead, Kupchan argued, Trumps victory reflected an anti-incumbent wave, not a decisive rightward shift. Electorates in many democracies, Kupchan pointed out, are living through the same socioeconomic disruptions as Americans disruptions born of digital technology and globalization. They, too, are voting for change. Kupchan noted that internationally, the anti-incumbent movement has resulted in the defeat of both left and right: In cases where right-wing parties have held power, the left has come out on top. In the United Kingdom, Poland and Brazil, center-left governments have recently replaced the right-wing governments. While parties on the left in many nations are struggling, it is hardly smooth sailing for those on the right. Ivo Daalder, the chief executive of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, acknowledged that there is no doubt that liberalism and the left generally are having a tough moment in established democracies not only in the U.S. but in much of Europe as well. I hadnt been to Syria in 14 years. After the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, I couldnt wait to make the two-hour drive from Beirut to Damascus and witness the end of this 54-year dictatorship. When I arrived five days after his ouster, I saw the elation of thousands of Syrians celebrating freedom in the largest square in Damascus and the anguished panic of those looking for missing loved ones at the infamous Sednaya prison. The rebel victory hit home for me, too. It brought an end to a regime that had occupied my country, Lebanon, for three decades until 2005, as well as the collapse of the Iranian axis that had effectively held us hostage since then through Hezbollah, the Lebanese group that was Tehrans most powerful proxy militia. Now the Lebanese face a historic opportunity for their country to stop being a battleground and finally become common ground a united, functioning, sovereign nation. No matter how enormous the challenges and no matter how critical foreign support will be, I am convinced Lebanons fate is largely in our own hands. Our first major step will be the election of a president in parliamentary voting scheduled for Thursday, after two years of vacancy because of political paralysis. Syria under Mr. Assad and before him his father, Hafez al-Assad, never considered Lebanon an independent country. As an occupier starting in 1976, it meddled in our elections, undermined our chosen governments, fostered corruption and threatened, detained and, many suspect, assassinated Lebanese opponents. In early December 2019, I called Faimalotoa Kika Stowers, the health minister of Samoa. The measles outbreak that began earlier that fall on her small Pacific island nation had spread out of control and become an epidemic that threatened to overwhelm the country. The deep bond Hawaii shares with Samoa meant this was a shared crisis. As the lieutenant governor of Hawaii at the time and a practicing physician, I knew we needed to act quickly to save lives. Almost 20 years earlier, I arrived on Hawaiis Big Island as part of the National Health Service Corps to practice medicine at a small clinic in a remote community. I learned the value of preventive health care for rural, low-income patients, and the essential fact that vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent illness and save lives, especially those of children. As a rule, keeping vaccination rates above 95 percent can protect an entire population from infectious diseases like measles. But when vaccination rates fall, preventable diseases can regain a foothold and pose a new danger. And thats precisely what happened in Samoa, after misinformation spread by anti-vaccine activists eroded trust in vaccines and led to the 2019 outbreak. Thousands of preventable cases of measles sprang up, leading to the deaths of 83 people, mostly children. One of the most prominent voices behind the anti-vaccine campaign was Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Vaccines and public health vaccination programs are not just medical interventions; they are also moral imperatives. They embody our commitment to saving lives, ending disease and protecting the health and well-being of future generations. If Mr. Kennedy is confirmed as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services under Donald Trump and serves as our nations chief health care officer, there is a real danger that he will continue to spread doubt and misinformation, potentially causing vaccination rates to fall and leading to more preventable deaths. America cant allow that to happen. That is no easy feat, because a social movement is tricky to capture in real time onstage. In the case of #MeTooTheatre, there is the added threat of being sued for defamation a very tangible prospect in France, where a number of men charged with abuse have won judgments against their accusers. The cast of Les Histrioniques playfully skewers that reality from the get-go, lining up in sunglasses on the theaters small stage. We created a fictional space so that you and we are safe, one performer said, stressing the word safe with a touch of irony. Its time to show you the faces of the actors playing us, said another, before the performers removed their sunglasses, one by one, to cheers from the opening-night audience. In recurring scenes, the women re-enact the instant messages they exchanged in the private messenger group they created in 2021, down to the emojis they sent as reactions. They face the audience, rather than each other, like a chorus, and describe what they were each doing as the hashtag took off online working at a school, rehearsing for shows, caring for a baby. Its an affecting retelling, because instead of the angry mob that some French media outlets have painted them as, the five cast members step forward as individuals with complex lives, who started their campaign for varied reasons. One, Marie Coquille-Chambel, a budding theater researcher who initiated the hashtag on Twitter, was a victim of domestic violence from her ex-partner, a member of the Comedie-Francaise troupe. (He was found guilty in 2021.) The four others Louise Brzezowska-Dudek, Nadege Cathelineau, Sephora Haymann and Julie Menard are actors, playwrights and directors with direct experience, as they tell it, of gender inequality in the performing arts. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolences to the President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, regarding the victims of the earthquake that occurred in the city of Shigatse, in the Xizang Autonomous Region, Trend reports. Will be updated A firefighter died and five people were injured on Monday after flames engulfed a building in Honolulu and caused the roof to partly collapse, the authorities in Hawaii said. The firefighter, 25, was killed after emergency responders were called to a building in the McCully-Moiliili neighborhood of Honolulu before 8 p.m., fire officials said in a news conference Monday evening. The cause of the blaze was unclear, and officials said they were still investigating. Its a very difficult time for us, said Chief Sheldon K. Hao of the Honolulu Fire Department, who added that four other firefighters were being kept overnight in a hospital. Its a very difficult time for us, and we just ask for your prayers and support. Officials described a harrowing scene at the building. As crews battled the blaze, two firefighters were declared missing, Capt. Jaimie Song of the Honolulu Fire Department told local reporters. One escaped shortly after, while the second was rescued by fellow firefighters after the roof partly collapsed, Captain Song said. The House passed a bill on Tuesday that would target undocumented immigrants charged with nonviolent crimes for deportation, an opening salvo from a Republican majority that has vowed to deliver on President-elect Donald J. Trumps promised crackdown at the border. The measure, which drew the support of 48 Democrats as well as all Republicans, appears to be on a path to enactment, having garnered bipartisan backing in the Senate, which plans to take it up on Friday. It is named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student who was killed last year in Georgia by a migrant who had crossed into the United States illegally and was arrested and charged with shoplifting, but was not detained. The quick action reflected how Republicans in Congress, emboldened by the governing trifecta they will hold when Mr. Trump takes office on Jan. 20, are using their power to revive and pass a raft of border security measures that died during the last Congress in the Democratic-controlled Senate. Those include bills to increase deportations, hold asylum applicants outside of the United States and strip federal funding from cities that limit their cooperation with federal immigration enforcement authorities. Former President Jimmy Carter arrived in Washington on Tuesday to be honored in death as the city never truly honored him in life. That he will end his long story with a pomp-and-circumstance visit to the nations capital is a nod to protocol not partiality, a testament to the rituals of the American presidency rather than a testimonial to the time he presided in the citadel of power. To put it more bluntly, Mr. Carter and Washington did not exactly get along. More than any president in generations before him, the peanut farmer from Georgia was a genuine outsider when he took occupancy of the white mansion at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and determinedly, stubbornly, proudly remained so. He never cared for the culture of the capital, never catered to its mandarins and doyens, never bowed to its conventions. The city, in turn, never cared for him and his Georgian mafia, dismissing them as a bunch of cocky rednecks from the hinterlands who did not know what they were doing. Other outsider presidents eventually acclimated to Washington. Not Mr. Carter. And by his own admission, it would cost him. The federal judge who handled President-elect Donald J. Trumps prosecution on charges of mishandling classified documents temporarily barred the Justice Department on Tuesday from releasing a final report about the case by the special counsel, Jack Smith. In a brief ruling, Judge Aileen M. Cannon, a Trump appointee who dismissed the documents case in its entirety this summer, enjoined Mr. Smith from sharing his report outside the Justice Department until a federal appeals court in Atlanta, which is now considering a challenge to her dismissal, makes a decision about how to handle the report. Mr. Smith, who also investigated Mr. Trumps attempt to overturn his loss in the 2020 election, has said in court filings that his final report will have two volumes: one for each of the indictments he brought against the president-elect. Judge Cannons order barring the release of the report did not appear to distinguish between the documents case, which she oversaw, and the election interference case, which Judge Tanya S. Chutkan heard in Washington. Judge Cannon has a history of issuing unusual rulings in Mr. Trumps favor. Early in the investigation that led to the documents indictment, she intervened in the case to impede the inquiry, only to be overruled by a conservative panel that sits over her, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit in Atlanta. The man widely called the true winner of Venezuelas tainted presidential election said on Tuesday that his son-in-law had been kidnapped by hooded men in Caracas, the capital. Edmundo Gonzalez said that his son-in-law, Rafael Tudares, was walking Mr. Gonzalezs grandchildren to school when he was intercepted by hooded men dressed in black, and taken away in a gold van. At this time he is missing, he wrote on X. The reported kidnapping comes one day after Mr. Gonzalez met at the White House with President Biden, whose administration recognizes Mr. Gonzalez as president-elect, in an effort to put international pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, the longtime authoritarian leader who claims he won Venezuelas July election. On Monday the Maduro government, in a statement, called the meeting a flagrant violation of international law and a crude attempt to perpetuate imperialist interference in Latin America. Taiwan is investigating whether a ship linked to China is responsible for damaging one of the undersea cables that connects Taiwan to the internet, the latest reminder of how vulnerable Taiwans critical infrastructure is to damage from China. The incident comes as anxiety in Europe has risen over apparent acts of sabotage, including ones aimed at such undersea communication cables. Two fiber-optic cables under the Baltic Sea were severed in November, prompting officials from Sweden, Finland and Lithuania to halt a Chinese-flagged commercial ship in the area for weeks over its possible involvement. In Taiwan, communications were quickly rerouted after the damage was detected, and there was no major outage. The islands main telecommunications provider, Chunghwa Telecom, received a notification on Friday morning that the cable, known as the Trans-Pacific Express Cable, had been damaged. That cable also connects to South Korea, Japan, China and the United States. That afternoon, Taiwans Coast Guard intercepted a cargo vessel off the northern city of Keelung, in an area near where half a dozen cables make landfall. The vessel was owned by a Hong Kong company and crewed by seven Chinese nationals, the Taiwan Coast Guard Administration said. Ireland has formally joined South Africas genocide case against Israel, according to a statement on Tuesday from the International Court of Justice. The filing, made on Monday, comes months after Ireland announced plans to intervene in the case before the United Nations highest judicial body. Ireland, invoking Article 63 of the Statute of the Court, filed in the Registry of the Court a declaration of intervention in the case concerning Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip, the court said in a statement on Tuesday. South Africa brought its case to the I.C.J. in December 2023, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Israel has strongly rejected the allegation, describing South Africas filing as a despicable and contemptuous exploitation of the Court. Syrias main airport handled its first international flights on Tuesday since the fall of the government of former President Bashar al-Assad last month, as the new leaders press to reassert a semblance of normalcy in the war-weary country. One Qatar Airways plane landed following a direct flight from Doha to the Syrian capital, Damascus. Jordans Civil Aviation Authority announced that it had also sent an initial flight to Damascus on Tuesday morning as a message of support to its northern neighbor, the first trip there by its national carrier in 13 years. Another flight affiliated with Syrias national carrier took off on Tuesday for the United Arab Emirates carrying 145 passengers, according to Syrian state media. Video shared by Syrian media showed people on board waving Syrian flags and singing nationalist songs. Syrias new Islamist leaders have pledged to convene a committee to draft an inclusive constitution for the country. They have urged civil servants to return to work to get the machinery of government up and running, and they insist that Syria no longer poses any threat to its neighbors. Flat-earthers, people who believe that the Earth is flat, have been catching a lot of flack for their ridiculous claims, but theirs is not the craziest theory regarding our planets shape and structure. Some people actually believe the Earth is hollow and that a race of superior humans live inside it. The hollow Earth theory was first proposed in the 17th century by some of the leading scientists of the time. Unlike their predecessors, however, the modern hollow Earth theorists also believe that a race of superior humans, Vikings, and Nazis live in paradise at the center. These residents of the core frequently send UFOs, via holes in the North and South poles, to spy on us surface dwellers in an attempt to prevent a nuclear war. Photo: 2012.com.au Spearheading the modern Hollow Earth movement is Rodney Cluff, author of a book called World Top Secret: Our Earth IS Hollow. In 2007 Cluff organized a voyage to the core, with plans to sail from Russia on an icebreaker ship seeking the supposed opening at the North Pole. He had to cancel the 15,000-per-head expedition, but he claims that this hasnt dampened his enthusiasm for the theory, and told The Sun Online that the movement is only growing in popularity. More and more people are coming to terms with the fact that the Earth is hollow. I get emails from people learning about it every day, Cluff said. Its definitely growing in popularity certainly not in the millions but maybe in the thousands. So how does the theory hold up against modern science? Right now, the scientific consensus is that the Earth is made up of a series of unbroken layers and crusts surrounding a solid ball composed mainly of an iron-nickel alloy. Surrounding that solid core is a layer of liquid that is about 2,260 kilometers thick. Danish seismologist Inge Lehmann deduced the presence of the core in 1936 while studying seismograms from earthquakes in New Zealand. Her findings have been backed up many times in the decades since. Photo: YouTube screengrab These mainstream theories are considered part of the conspiracy to cover up the truth, by Hollow Earth believers, who subscribe instead to the 17th century science. Edmund Halley, of Halleys Comet fame, first proposed the theory of a hollow Earth in 1692 as a way of explaining unusual compass readings. Halleys theory suggested that the planet is a series of spherical shells stacked like a Russian nesting doll, all spinning in different directions around a central core. This model could account for the inaccuracies in his compass readings. He postulated that the space between each shell might contain a luminous atmosphere capable of supporting life. Halleys bizarre theory was expanded upon over the centuries by various proponents, and in 1818, John Cleves Symmes, Jr. published his Circular No. 1, stating to the world that the Earth is hollow. He posited that unlike Halleys multi-layered model, the planet was a giant cavern that housed a miniature sun. Symmes also claimed that there were massive holes at the North and South poles allowing for access to the world inside. This aspect of his theory became known as Symmes Holes. The 19th-century public and scientific community met Symmes theory with derision, but he continued giving lectures and publishing letters about the Hollow Earth. He aimed for an expedition to the North Pole, even getting Congress to vote in 1822 on funding it, but his vision never came to fruition. He never let up campaigning for the expedition until his death in 1849. Symmes son and other loyal followers kept the Hollow Earth theory alive into the 20th century when it began to take on a more supernatural air. Works of fiction that used Halley and Symmes visions as starting points have profoundly influenced modern believers of the theory. Author Jules Verne published A Journey to the Centre of the Earth in 1864, which proposed a lush world inside the planet. The novel inspired an entire sub-genre of science fiction about prehistoric jungles and highly advanced and enlightened races of humans living beneath us. Some modern hollow earthers believe Nazis who escaped from World War Two, as well as the lost Viking colonies of Greenland and the lost tribes of Israel all live in the center of the Earth. Others think that it is home to around 100 subterranean cities full of superior humans, known as the Agartha network. They have flying saucer technology. They live lives of perfect health for hundreds of years. Their science is much more advanced because they live much longer lives, Rodney Cluff told Atlas Obscura. It has a perfect temperature. God made the inner sun so that it provides heat, during the night, and a little bit less at night. Trees grow up to a thousand feet tall. Humans even grow up to 15 feet tall. Cluff claims that the only reason we on the surface havent had any verifiable contact with those in the core is that a vaguely defined international banking conspiracy has worked to cover up the Hollow Earth and hide any evidence of Symmes holes. Hes not the only one. YouTube conspiracy theorists secureteam10 told The Sun: Every single satellite image that we have of the North Pole shows a massive hole or a blackout hole put there to hide whatevers underneath. French/West/Vaughan brings Detroit-based The Millerschin Group, which it acquired in 2022, under the umbrella of the FWV agency brand as part of its Detroit office. The rebranding strengthens FWVs footprint in the automotive and mobility sectors. Under the FWV banner, the Detroit office will expand into B2C marketing, while staying true to its roots as a partner to the mobility and manufacturing industries. Over its 24-year history, TMG has served a roster of global clients such as Eaton, LG Energy Solution, Lear, Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America and WABCO. FWVs Detroit office will join a network of specialty divisions, including AMP3 PR (New York City), Fetching PR (Tampa), and Prix Productions (Los Angeles). The Millerschin Groups legacy of excellence and deep expertise in mobility and manufacturing align perfectly with FWVs vision for expansion in the Metro Detroit region, said FWV chairman and CEO Rick French. Evan Swarztrauber CorePoint Strategies, a public affairs firm focused on technology and telecommunications policy issues, launches. The firm is headed up by Evan Swarztrauber, former policy advisor to FCC chair-designate Brendan Carr and former chairman Ajit Pai. It offers such services as strategic counsel, communications and coalition building, as well as public policy campaign development, management and execution. In todays realigned policy environment, there is no issue too technical or wonky to be unaffected by politics, said Swarztrauber. Stakeholders within the tech and telecom sectors need to consider all available pathways to influencing the public policy outcomes that will shape the future of these markets. Later, which offers influencer marketing and social media management software, acquires influencer platform Mavely from Rhyz Inc, a subsidiary of multilevel marketing company Nu Skin Enterprises. The acquisition was funded with a $250M investment from equity investor Summit Partners. Mavelys cofounders and leadership teamCEO Evan Wray, CTO Sean OBrien, and CFO Kevin Kenefickwill join Laters leadership team. Later's AI predictive analytics will now leverage first-party performance data from Mavely's network of more than 120,000 creators. Bringing Mavely under the Later umbrella is a major step in redefining how marketers and creators work together, says Later CEO Scott Sutton. This move enables us to deliver a seamless, full-funnel experience for marketersoffering return-on-ad-spend (ROAS) based campaigns and driving predictable, attributable outcomes. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan has expressed condolences to China over the devastating earthquake, the publication of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry on X said, Trend reports. We are deeply saddened by the news of the devastating earthquake in the Chinese city of Shigatse. We express our deep condolences to friendly China and the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured, the publication reads. To note, an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.8 struck southwest China. The quake resulted in the deaths of 95 people and at least 130 injured. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel January 7 marks the tenth anniversary of the Al-Qaeda terror attack on the Paris headquarters of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. A pair of French-born Algerian brothers murdered a dozen people, including eight members of the editorial staff, apparently because they objected to the papers mocking coverage of Islam and Muslims. Charlie Hebdo, though, is an equal opportunity ridiculer of all religions, politicians, celebrities and phonies of all stripes. And there lies its strength. The assassinations immediately triggered a global wave of support for Charlie Hebdo, and freedom of speech and the press. It became known as the Je Suis Charlie movement. Thibaut Brutton, who heads Reporters Without Borders, marked the anniversary of the attack on Charlie Hebdo. "We pay tribute to this publication, which continues this universal fight for the right to inform and reminds us that democracies must not give an inch in the face of attempts to make it a crime to defame religions," Brutton said. "Ten years after the Charlie Hebdo tragedy, these media professionals and their freedom to inform using the power of humour still need protecting, because all over the world, fanatics, dictators and powerful people continue to attack cartoonists with the aim of restricting the satirical medias freedom." Americas media are slated for a rough run for at least the next four years as Donald Trump, who has drawn a bulls-eye on the backs of news outlets that do not genuflect before him, returns to power. The press could sure use of rebirth of the Je Suis Charlie spirit right about now. Zuck caves to two masters. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg is not only kowtowing to Donald Trump these days. He also is trying to get on the good side of Americas Shadow President, Elon Musk. In his Jan. 7 post outlining why Facebook is chucking fact-checkers, Joel Kaplan, Metas chief global affairs officer, makes references to the great job that Musk has done at the X platform. In ending the independent third-party fact-checking program in the US, Facebook will move to a community notes program. Weve seen this approach work on Xwhere they empower their community to decide which posts are misleading and need more context, and people across a diverse range of perspectives decide what sort of context is helpful for other users to see, he wrote. And just like they do on X, Community Notes will require agreement between people with a range of perspectives to help prevent biased ratings, added Kaplan. Like X, Facebook is getting rid of a number of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender identity that are the subject of frequent political discourse and debate. Its going to be a wild west show in Zuckerberg land. Russian, Chinese and Iranian propagandists can't believe their good fortune. The owe a big debt of gratitude to Zuck for giving them the green light to spread their disinformation. The big question: Will Mark join the fray by writing tens of posts each day, just like Elon? But is making Facebook more like X the best strategy for the platform? Appeasing Trump/Musk is one thing. Destroying Facebook is another. Bold PR move Pope Francis has appointed the immigrant-loving Cardinal Robert McElroy as the next archbishop of Washington. Talk about walking into the lions den. In a bit of great timing, Pope Francis released the announcement on Insurrection Day, Jan. 6. McElroy has a history with Trump. Shortly after Trump's election in 2016, the then-bishop of San Diego, described Trump as the candidate of disruption. He urged Catholics to become disruptors. 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. McElroy also urged Catholics to disrupt those who train us to see Muslim men, women and children as forces of fear rather than as children of God. Through McElroy, Pope Francis will have a front row seat in Trumps plan to deport millions of immigrants. Once on the bright DC stage, McElroy has an opportunity to punch his ticket to heaven by preaching the need for his flock to show love compassion to immigrants. BUSINESSMAN Tony Kilduff's plan for an 'off-grid' artists' commune in Offaly has been turned down by County Council planners. Kilduff applied for permission to build studios on a 40-acre site he bought in his home area, Clonfinlough, near Clonmacnoise. According to his proposal to the council, the idea was to foster creativity in a quiet and eco-friendly environment that would be economically viable. It was intended to keep a small group of buildings heated and cooled by solar power gathered via photovoltaic panels laid out at ground level and served by a small shed with a battery storage facility. It is proposed that the development will be used as a non-profit, workshop type model and as such will only facilitate artists or people connected with the arts and education in that discipline, the council was told. Kilduff has been an honorary council member of the Royal Hibernian Academy, which supports artists. He has an active interest in contemporary Irish art and has supported and collected modern artworks for many years, which has led to his ownership of one of the most substantial and unique collections in the country. The project has been endorsed and will be supported by the RHA and the academy will be instrumental in appointing artists for residency on site going forward, the council was told. The development at Lakelands, Clonfinlough proposed the refurbishment of an old farm cottage and the construction of four single storey dwellings, three of which were to function as artist studio units. The fourth was to be a two-bed house. Sr Bosco's teaching career took her to Missouri, United States where one of her pupils was a boy who went on to become Cardinal of New York, Timothy Dolan. After 22 years she returned to Ireland and she was then based in Drogheda for 32 years. OFFALY-based nun Sr Bosco Daly celebrated her 100th birthday over the weekend with family, friends and Sisters of Mercy colleagues in Tullamore. Most Rev Denis Nulty, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin said the native of Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath has become Ireland's 457th centenarian and the 11th Mercy Sister to reach the milestone. In his homily at a Mass before a celebration dinner in the Convent of Mercy, Bishop Nulty, revealed that the oldest Mercy nun in Ireland, Sr Patricia O'Neill, is 107 and the country's fifth oldest person. So Bosco, you've a few more years to catch up, he remarked. The year 1925 also saw the birth of Maureen Potter, Barbara Bush, Margaret Thatcher and the bishop's own mother. All strong women in their own right, though Bosco, you've outlived all of them. Bishop Nulty, who knew Sr Bosco from her time with the Sisters of Mercy in Drogheda, outlined that she had entered the convent in Drogheda in 1944, was finally professed in 1950, trained as a teacher in Carysfort, Dublin, before becoming one of four nuns selected to go on mission to Ballwin, Missouri in 1957. One of her pupils at the Holy Infant school in Ballwin was a boy, Timothy Dolan, who went on to become a priest and is now Cardinal of New York. He was among your pupils in first and second grade and you prepared him for First Holy Communion and he never forgets to reference and acknowledge your teaching role in the journey of faith, said the bishop. He's a very frequent visitor here to Tullamore as he was to Drogheda before. He likened Sr Bosco to St John the Baptist, a man who taught others to follow Jesus, and said she had been a teacher all her life, working in Drogheda for 32 years after her 22 years in the United States. He also thanked Sr Bosco and the other sisters in Drogheda for providing a home from home for the priests of the town. I think of the little and big parties we enjoyed, the hot whiskies you insisted we imbibe after Easter vigil. The year of Bosco's birth was, like 2025, a jubilee year for the church, and 100 years ago the nun had responded to a call from Pope Pius XI for missionary activity around the world. You and so many others responded to that call in being part of the mission from Drogheda to Ballwin, from the Meath Mercies to Missouri. The bishop also mentioned the cheque from President Michael D Higgins, saying: It is said that there's a store in 34th Street, New York, Macy's, well worth a visit next time you think about it. When Sr Bosco was presented with the cheque and a letter from President Higgins by Sr Cecilia, Sisters of Mercy, Tullamore, she laughed and asked: How much is it? In his letter of congratulations, the president wrote of the many remarkable changes to all aspects of our lives in the last century but added: In so many other ways however the human condition remains the same and we continue with similar preoccupations, ambitions, worries, challenges and joys as those shared by countless generations before us. Yet, it is the gift of our lives to try and make it better, nios fearr. You have played your own important part in shaping and crafting the world we inhabit today, bringing your own energy, experience and wisdom to your work, family and community life. As President of Ireland I congratulate and thank you for that important contribution. The chief celebrant at the Mass, Fr John Garry, said that during her century-long journey Sr Bosco had been a beacon of faith, love and service. Fr Garry also referred to her good humour and as she mixed with guests and well wishers afterwards, Sr Bosco confirmed that quality still exists to those who asked how she was, saying: I'm alright, I'm not too bad any day. All I'm afraid of is that I'm going to live to be 100 and something. How would you get out of that? Prior to her birthday Sr Cecilia said Bosco's long life was due to her natural gift of good health as a child and an adult and long walks to school with plenty of fresh air. Speaking today, Sr Bosco smiled and attributed her longevity to the tablets she'd been taking for about 20 years. She also recalled hearing a very young Timothy Dolan tell her he was thinking of become a priest and said she had coaxed him along. She said she loved her time in America. I'd go back again. Sr Bosco was christened Julianna Daly but when she went to primary school in Kilbeggan her name was changed to Sheila, the Irish for Julianna. Her parents were Thomas Daly and Mary Casey, Ballymacmorris, Kilbeggan, and she was the second oldest of five children. Her brothers were Hubey and Edward (Ned), and Peter Paul, who died when he was 17. Her sister was Maureen. Sr Bosco has said she decided to enter the convent because her neighbour Kathleen Fox was a nun in Longford and Mother Philomena, Mercy Sisters, Kilbeggan suggested she go to Drogheda instead of Longford. Her first profession was on August 20, 1947 and her final profession was on August 20, 1950. She was in Carysfort from 1950 to 1952 and in Ballwin, Missouri from 1957 to 1979. Sr Bosco returned to Drogheda in 1979 and came to Tullamore in 2011. Sr Bosco is pictured above on her 100th birthday with her first cousin Nanny Scully, Croghan (left), Sr Cecilia and Mary Keegan, Kilbeggan, a native of Mountbolus whose late husband Sean was also a first cousin of the nun An Garda Siochana have issued a 'crucial' update to motorists in Offaly and across Ireland as the cold weather is set to continue for the week, making driving conditions dangerous. In a post on Facebook, Gardai said, "It's crucially important motorists are aware that road surface temperatures in most of the country are now far lower than air temperatures which makes driving even more difficult. "Stay home and cosy - if you must make a journey please be prepared because navigating icy roads or those covered in snow is a challenge for even the most skilled driver. "If or when your vehicle loses traction and starts sliding on ice, stay calm and try not to panic. READ NEXT: Lucky winner of Offaly GAA Lotto Jackpot picks up cheque for 20,000 "Do not slam on the brakes. Instead, lightly and slowly apply the brakes. "If youre sliding sideways, turn the wheel in the direction the back of your car is going. "Always sound the horn to help warn other motorists, and please call 999/112 if in danger or emergency. Ashling Murphy was just 23 when she was murdered at Cappincur, Tullamore in January 2022 when she went for a walk on the bank of the Grand Canal after finishing a day's work as a teacher at Durrow National School. ASHLING Murphy will be remembered on the third anniversary of her death this Sunday, January 12 with a Mass in Mountbolus and a walk on bank of the Grand Canal between Tullamore and Cappincur. A post on the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund Facebook page said: We wish to invite you to join us in remembering and celebrating Ashlings life at her 3rd anniversary mass which will take place on Sunday, 12th January, at 10am in St. Brigids Church, Mountbolus. A commemorative walk will take place on Sunday afternoon to Ashlings Memorial Shrine on the Grand Canal, Tullamore. Meeting at Digby Bridge Carpark, [Cappincur] at 3pm. Anyone walking along the canal from the Tullamore side may meet at the memorial shrine at 3.15pm. People planning to participate in the walk are advised that it is about 25-20 minutes if one begins at the Fiona Pender memorial. Please join us as we remember our beloved Ashling on her 3rd anniversary, the post added. It is two years since the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund was founded to support the development of traditional Irish arts, culture and heritage for young people. The fund establishment date of January 6 fittingly lands on Nollaig na mBan, a post on its page said. Since the launch of the charity, on the 6th of January 2023, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and the desire of so many to remember Ashling, regardless of whether they personally knew Ashling or not, the post said. We thank the many individuals and groups who have undertaken fundraisers in Ashlings memory and in aid of the memorial fund established to continue her strong, exemplary legacy. No matter how big or small the fundraiser, we are forever grateful for the generous support of those continuing to hold Ashling and her memory close to them. With your kind support, the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund can utilise donations and proceeds from fundraisers to achieve the objectives of the memorial fund. These objectives, compiled along with the Murphy family, are deemed close to Ashlings heart and represent the many interests she had in her 23 years. Last month the fund revealed it had been selected as an AIB Community Partner for 2024 and it received a 3,500 from the AIB Community Fund. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to AIB for this wonderful annual initiative, which supports local community charities across the country. We are especially grateful to the management and staff of AIB Tullamore for selecting us as their Employee-Nominated Charity of the Year. This support plays a crucial role in helping us continue Ashlings legacy. Ashling Murphy was a graduate (see picture below) of Mary Immaculate College (MIC) in Limerick and the college established an entrance scholarship in her memory. Also last month MIC and the INTO (Irish National Teachers' Organisation) announced the scholarship recipient for 2024, talented concertina player and aspiring teacher, Rachel Mahony, Ennis, Co Clare. Congratulating the recipient, INTO president Carmel Browne said: By awarding this scholarship, we not only keep Ashlings memory alive, but we also inspire future educators who share her passion for music and community. Professor Dermot Nestor, President of MIC, said: It is fitting that we honour Ashlings memory by awarding a scholarship, in partnership with the INTO, to a fellow talented musician who is embarking on their B Ed (primary teaching) programme here with us at MIC. Rachel is such a musician and a worthy recipient, and I wish her all the very best with her studies over the next four years. Further information about the memorial fund objectives are available on the iDonate page Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund. Alternatively, an email can be sent to ashlingmurphymemorialfund@gmail.com for anyone requiring information. Ashling Murphy, a native of Blueball, was aged 23 when she was murdered while walking along the bank of the Grand Canal by Jozef Puska on the afternoon of January 12, 2022. She had gone for a walk there after finishing a day's work at Durrow National School. Puska, now aged 34, is a native of Slovakia who was living in Mucklagh at the time of the killing. He was sentenced to life in prison in November 2023 for the murder following a trial at the Central Criminal Court. Met Eireann has upgraded it Weather Warnings as 'extremely cold' temperatures are forecast for Ireland tonight. Met Eireann has issued a Status Orange Low Temperature/Ice warning for Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster and Connacht. Met Eireann is warning that it will be extremely cold with widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow. Met Eireann is warning that there will be dangerous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot, travel disruption and delays and animal welfare issues. The warning is valid from 8pm on Tuesday until 10am on Wednesday. Keep up to date with all the latest Met Eireann Weather Warnings by clicking here According to the latest Met Eireann weather forecast, Tuesday will be a very cold day with sunny spells and scattered showers, most frequent in the west and north. Some of the showers will be wintry and there is a chance of isolated thunder and hail. Frost and ice along with some lying snow will persist in some areas all day. Highest temperatures of just 0 to 5 degrees in light to moderate northwesterly winds, fresher at times near western and northern coasts. According to Met Eireann, it will be extremely cold and largely dry tonight though a few wintry showers will affect parts of the north and west. Lowest temperatures of -8 to -3 degrees generally, locally lower, with a severe frost and icy stretches. Light variable breezes will allow patches of freezing fog to develop. According to www.met.ieMet Eireann, it will be bitterly cold morning on Wednesday with widespread frost and ice along with patches of freezing fog, lingering in places through the day. Otherwise, there will be sunny periods and scattered wintry showers, mainly in the north and west. However, it will be cloudier for a time near southern coasts with the chance of some patchy rain. Highest temperatures of -1 to +4 degrees with mostly light northerly breezes, more moderate near southern coasts Met Eireann has issued status orange low temperature/ice warnings for most of the country for the next two nights as the temperatures are set to plummet to as low as -8 in places. The national forecaster says conditions will be "extremely cold with widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow" and that caution should be exercised. The first of the status orange warnings will come into effect at 8pm this Tuesday and will remain valid until 10am on Wednesday. It applies to Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan, Monaghan as well as all of Munster and all of Connacht. Potential impacts, according to Met Eireann include: dangerous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot, travel disruption and delays, animal welfare issues. READ NEXT: UPDATE: More snow on the way to Ireland - see detailed snow map for your area The second warning, which has also been issued this Tuesday morning, will be valid from 8pm on Wednesday until 11am on Thursday. As of now, it applies to every county in Ireland except Donegal. Local authority crews across the country have been placed on standby and motorists are being urged not to make any unnecessary journeys while the status orange warnings are in place. The first part of a new two-part documentary series, Michael Lynn: The Fugitive aired on RTE One and RTE Player on Monday night, January 6. The documentary highlighted 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. The two part series reveals the true story of a 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. READ MORE: Should Irish people be worrying about HMPV as cases surge in China? Irish viewers have been sharing their thoughts and questions surrounding the first part of this story and many have criticised the lack of due diligence from banks involved and others have slammed then Minister for Justice Michael McDowell for "opposing regulation". McDowell is an Independent Senator and a practising Senior Counsel. He has been a member of Seanad Eireann since 2016, he was elected again in 2020 and he is seeking re-election in the next Seanad election this month. One person posted on X/Twitter: "Michael Lynn on RTE 1 just now. Michael Mc Dowell - current senator and candidate for re-election to the University panel- was then Minister for Justice and opposed regulation: People have to look after themselves. Michael Lynn was able to rob 12m from Irish people hmm.." Another simply tweeted: "Michael Lynn.....con man, obnoxious chancer, he was at 18 he never changed..." One person said: "not saying Michael Lynn isn't a scumbag - he is - but what this documentary is really highlighting is the complete absence of due diligence in banking regulations back in the 00's" Another said: "#MichaelLynn the #banks might have forgotten about him after a year but the small investor who were buying a property with their pension and the man whose wife died will carry that burden for the rest of their lives" BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. This was the first COP where the President of the European Commission did not attend, though the participation of the President of the Commission was confirmed a couple of months before, President Ilham Aliyev said during his interview with local channels on January 7, Trend reports. There was a lot of time to come. By the way, the Secretary-General of the United Nations came twice: at the opening and at the closing. But again, this message was ignored by the European Commission. Of course, COP29 did not suffer from that, but the absence of the European Commission, which is a party to COP, of course, raises a lot of questions, noted the President. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. At Azerbaijan's initiative, the Azerbaijani and Armenian border delimitation commissions are set to hold another meeting by the end of January, President Ilham Aliyev said during his interview with local TV channels on January 7, Trend reports. "The protocol that was agreed between the Armenian and Azerbaijani commissions on delimitation and demarcation says that many factors should be taken into account when clarifying the border: security, communications, settlements, historical factors, environmental factors, etc. That is, the existing conditional border between Armenia and Azerbaijan is not a dogma, and our position has always been that it needs to be clarified taking into account these and many other factors I mentioned. As far as I know, this month, we have at least put forward this initiative, the next meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian delimitation commissions should be held to continue the process of delimitation. We have our approach on methodology, we have given it to the Armenian side, and the verbal response we received, which has been reported to me, indicates that there are no particular objections from their side. So lets wait and see," President Ilham Aliyev said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. We have managed to return former IDPs to 10 settlements in three years. More than 10,000 IDPs have already been provided with houses and are living there. In total, about 30,000 people live there and work in various positions, in construction, state affairs, and other areas, President Ilham Aliyev said during his interview with local TV channels on January 7, Trend reports. Our plans for next year are to return former IDPs to about 20 more settlements. The names of those cities and villages have already been selected, and projects are underway. Construction work is currently underway in many villages and cities, and by the end of this year, former IDPs will be settled in about 30 settlements, the head of state added. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. If there is a consensus in French political circles, it is a consensus only on Azerbaijanophobia. Unfortunately, not only the incumbent government but also those who have ambitions to come to power do not differ much from each other, President Ilham Aliyev said during his interview with local TV channels on January 7, Trend reports. It would be enough to recall the illegal trips to Karabakh during the period when Russian peacekeepers were present. Those were the opponents of the current French President the Mayor of Paris, who, by the way, ran for election, the governor of the region where Paris is located, who was also a rival of President Macron in the elections, and Mr. Barnier, who briefly held the position of Prime Minister recently, the head of state noted. Islamophobia and xenophobia, in general, are distinctive features of the French political class, President Ilham Aliyev emphasized. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. On January 7, President Ilham Aliyev, in his interview with local television channels, touched upon the relations between Azerbaijan and Iran, as well as the future policy of Iran's new leadership. The head of state said: It is a bit early to talk about this. Because we have not had any serious contacts with the current Iranian leadership yet. There have been certain contacts between members of the government. They were more related to economic and transport issues. The President of Azerbaijan also recalled some points regarding the deterioration of relations with the previous government. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. We have recently put several metro stations into operation. But this is not enough, and 10 new metro stations will be built on my instructions, said President Ilham Aliyev during an interview with local television channels, Trend reports. The first seven to eight projects have already been selected to implement new road infrastructure projects in Baku. International experts have been involved. Which roads should we give priority to? Sometimes a new road is opened, but it leads to an increase in traffic jams, not a decrease. In other words, international experience is very important here, and this issue will definitely be resolved. Also, the process of replacing the city bus fleet with electric buses has also begun. We have already brought more than 150 new electric buses. At the same time, electric bus production will also begin in Azerbaijan this year, the head of state noted. Two killed in Mount Lavinia shooting Posted by Editor on January 7, 2025 - 8:26 am Two people were killed in a shooting at Watarappala Road, Mount Lavinia, early this morning (January 7), police reported. The incident involved an unidentified gunman who opened fire, killing a 36-year-old man at the scene. A 20-year-old youth was critically injured and rushed to the Colombo South Teaching Hospital (Kalubowila Hospital) but later succumbed to his injuries. The 36-year-old victim has been identified as a resident of Watarappala Road. The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Police further stated that both deceased individuals were heavily addicted to drugs. The Mount Lavinia Police are conducting investigations to identify and apprehend the suspects involved. The Ernakulam Central Police on Tuesday registered a case against Boby Chemmanur following a complaint by Malayalam actor Honey Rose, accusing him of making repeated sexually inappropriate remarks that demeaned womanhood. The businessman faces charges under Section 75(4) (sexually coloured remarks) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 67 (publishing or transmitting obscene material through electronic media) of the Information Technology Act, 2000. In her complaint, Rose highlighted sexual harassment she faced during the inauguration of Chemmanur's jewellery store in Alakode, Kannur, on August 7. She further detailed the difficulties she encountered on various platforms following the incident. ADVERTISEMENT The actor has additionally lodged complaints against at least 20 YouTubers for using obscene thumbnails featuring her image in their videos. Acting on the advice of ADGP Manoj Abraham and Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya, she met them personally before filing the complaint. Also Read Police file case against 30 for obscene comments on Honey Rose's post Taking to Instagram earlier, Rose issued a warning to Boby Chemmanur and his supporters, stating, You may believe in the power of your wealth, but I trust Indias legal system. She also indicated plans to take action against others who share similar attitudes. Also Read One arrested for posting obscene comments against Honey Rose ADVERTISEMENT Speaking to Manorama News, the actor clarified her decision to keep her identity public. The insults were made directly in my name. I see no reason to conceal my identity when Im raising this issue, she asserted. Earlier on Monday, police arrested Shaji, a Kumbalam native, for allegedly making offensive remarks against Honey Rose on Facebook. The arrest came after the actor filed a complaint on Sunday night highlighting highly offensive and disrespectful comments on one of her posts. Thirty other individuals also face similar charges in that case. ADVERTISEMENT In a subsequent social media post, Rose strongly warned against using double entendres and ridiculing women online. She pointed out that such comments are often dismissed as the actions of disturbed individuals, but this time, she had chosen to take legal action to set a precedent. Progressive Content Not Found Sometimes, authors delete their progressive content after publishing. To see if the progressive content was renamed or re-published, please click here. This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here. Let's face it: our world is, to put it mildly, a distinct mess. It doesn't matter whether you're checking out the never-ending, devastating war in Ukraine; the ever more embattled Middle East; North Korea, which has more than 11,000 troops fighting and dying in" yes!" Ukraine; or South Korea, which is now in a state of near political collapse. And, of course, that's just to start down a list of global horrors on a planet that, in case you hadn't noticed, is now heating up at a startling pace. And all of that was true even before" gulp, Donald Trump, a living, breathing sign of this country's potential future devastation (disintegration? collapse?) returns to the White House and prepares an all-American hell on earth for the rest of us. Yes, Rebecca Gordon, who starts a potentially devastating 2025 with her 90th piece for TomDispatch, couldn't be more on target when she describes herself as feeling a little "punch-drunk." Under the circumstances, I feel no less punch-drunk, imagining what it will be like to live my 80th through 84th years with -- can you believe it? -- Donald Trump and his deeply disturbed and disturbing crew back running (running down? running away with?) this country on an increasingly punch-drunk planet. I mean, imagine a great power headed by a billionaire who has already appointed 13 other billionaires to serve in his government (with a combined wealth of at least $383 billion), including the richest man on Planet Earth and the possible future first trillionaire, Elon Musk. Without a doubt, his will be the wealthiest administration in American history. The all-American demagogue who, the first time around, untaxed the rich in a stunning fashion, is back in charge of an all-American world of staggering and still growing inequality, and there can be little doubt that worse is to come. With that in mind, let Gordon consider how to live with (rather than without) the man of the hour -- all too sadly not our hour, but his. Tom Finding Hope In the Negative Spaces of the Trump Era By Rebecca Gordon The expression "punch-drunk," Google informs me, means "stupefied by or as if by a series of heavy blows to the head." Google's Oxford Language entry then offers a not-terribly-illuminating example of the term's use: "I feel a little punch-drunk today." Right now, a better one might be something like: "After November 5, 2024, a lot of people have been feeling more than a little punch-drunk." Learning on the night of November 5th that Donald Trump had probably been reelected president certainly left me feeling stupefied, with a sense that I'd somehow sustained a number of heavy blows to the head. The experience was undoubtedly amplified by the fact that I'd spent the previous three months in Reno, Nevada, as part of a seven-day-a-week political effort to prevent just such an outcome, along with a crew of valiant UNITE-HERE union members and more than 1,000 volunteer canvassers organized by Seed the Vote. Still, I hoped that battered feeling would wear off after our campaign office was dismantled, the rental car returned, and the extended-stay hotel room vacated. Surely, once reunited with my beloved partner (and a pair of disgruntled cats), I'd find the disorienting pain of repeated shocks beginning to dissipate. And the Hits Just Keep on Coming In fact, it's only gotten worse, as Trump has rolled out his picks and plans for the new administration. As old radio DJs used to shout: the hits just keep on coming! Unfortunately, these hits aren't rock-n-roll records; they're blows to the collective consciousness of those of us who worked to prevent Trump's reelection, and perhaps even to a few of those who voted for him. Ethics-deficient Matt Gaetz for attorney general? Bam! Kristi Noem, the puppy-killer, to run the Department of Homeland Security? Pow! Wait, Matt Gaetz is out! Now, it's Pam Bondi, the woman who accepted an illegal $25,000 campaign contribution from the now-defunct Trump Foundation for attorney general. Bam! Anti-vaxxer Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to run health and human services? Bang! Convicted (and Trump-pardoned) felon Charles Kushner (Jared's dad) for ambassador to France? Take that, Emmanuel Macron! Wham! And then there's a double-whammy for those of us who spent a couple of decades opposing this country's Global War on Terror, as we watch the liberal media (even the British Guardian) lionize old neocon war criminals like John Bolton and Dick Cheney for their opposition to Trump this time around. Whack! No wonder our ears are ringing! As one uppercut after another left us reeling, a whole flurry of stiff jabs followed in the form of Trump's announcements of new territorial ambitions for this country. He wants the Panama Canal back. And Greenland, which was never ours to begin with. As he wrote on his social media platform Truth Social, "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." L'e'tat, c'est Donald Trump, apparently. O Canada! Yes, he wants that, too! "It was a pleasure to have dinner the other night with Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada," he wrote on Truth Social. Governor Trudeau, really? Bernie Sanders jokingly probed the possible benefits of a U.S.-Canada assimilation, asking on X, "Does that mean that we can adopt the Canadian health care system and guarantee health care to all, lower the cost of prescription drugs, and spend 50% less per capita on healthcare?" Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Benson Industries, a nearly century-old Portland company that supplies the glassy exteriors for buildings, was sold to an Italian firm for an undisclosed sum. Permasteelisa Group on Tuesday said it bought the Portland-based Benson, the engineer of exterior building components known as curtain walls, which envelop high rises in glass and aluminum. Three Oregon lawmakers want to stop utility companies from raising rates on customers while those companies are still resolving years-long lawsuits over wildfire culpability and costs. Republican state Reps. Jami Cate of Lebanon, Virgle Osborne of Roseburg and Ed Diehl of Stayton announced their proposal in a news release Dec. 23, just days after the federal government said it was suing PacifiCorp, the parent company of Pacific Power, over unpaid costs related to the 2020 Archie Creek fire near Roseburg, making it one of thousands of plaintiffs suing the company since 2020. The lawmakers will propose their ban on rate hikes for such utilities in the upcoming legislative session, which starts Jan. 21, the release said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. During an interview with local television channels, President Ilham Aliyev touched upon the provocation in Ardabil, where a local mullah hurled insults and spread slander about Azerbaijan, Trend reports. "As for the provincial mullah's hateful attitude towards us, this is not the first time. That mullah from the city of Ardabil has repeatedly used insulting expressions against Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani people, including me. The question here is what the attitude of the person who appointed him to that position is. After all, he did not come and sit there on his own. We know very well who appointed him. What is his reaction, does he support this or not, and who will apologize to Azerbaijan? Will they apologize or not? The regret in the statement of the Iranian Foreign Ministry is not enough. There was an open insult: both the presidents of Turkiye and Azerbaijan, our peoples, and during a live broadcast at an official event. And only regret? This, of course, is unacceptable. Therefore, we believe that the provincial mullah should be punished. At the very least, he should be dismissed from his post and made to apologize to Azerbaijan. This is the point," President Ilham Aliyev said. A man died after his Ford F150 pickup truck crashed into a pole in southwest Beaverton on Sunday, officials said. Rescue workers at about 6:30 p.m. received a call about a crash in a residential neighborhood, near Southwest Erickson Avenue and Berthold Street, a Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue spokesperson said. James Poole, 68, died in the crash, Beaverton police said, adding that they believe the crash was caused by a medical event. The fatal crash came a day after a driver died after crashing a car into a pole in North Portland, Portland first traffic fatality of the year. 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 Disability Rights Oregon on Tuesday asked a judge to find the state of Oregon in contempt of a court order, citing its failure to admit jailed criminal defendants to the state psychiatric hospital within seven days for mental health treatment when they are found unable to assist in their defense. Disability Rights Oregon first sued the state in 2002, alleging that the Oregon State Hospitals failure to quickly admit defendants who need treatment violated their rights to a speedy trial and due process. Two Vancouver Public Schools administrators, including a principal, have been placed on administrative leave in the wake of a Hudson Bay High School teachers arrest last Friday for allegedly sexually abusing a student in 2013. Bill Oman, the districts executive director of schools and learning, and Valerie Seeley, Hudson Bay High Schools principal, both volunteered to take administrative leave as the investigation into 43-year-old teacher Shadbreon Gatson ramps up, the district said in an email sent to staff and students on Jan. 4. Oman was the principal of Hudson Bay High School when the abuse allegedly took place and Seeley was associate principal at the time, a Vancouver Public Schools spokesperson told The Oregonian/OregonLive. In 2013, both Oman and Seeley participated in an internal investigation of Gatson for a possible inappropriate relationship with a student; Gatson received a letter of admonishment as a result of the investigation, according to school records obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive. Three weeks before Gatsons arrest last month, a woman accused the teacher of sexual abuse that she said occurred in 2013, Vancouver Police Department spokesperson Kathy McNicholas said. The woman was 16 and a student at Hudson Bay in 2013. Vancouver School Board President Kathy Decker and district Superintendent Jeff Snell said in the email sent to parents and staff that other people have come forward with information about Gatson and that the school is cooperating with Vancouver Police Department detectives. We are grateful to people who have come forward with information, Decker and Snell said. School administrators investigated Gatson in 2013 after a janitor reported that he discovered the teacher alone in a dark storage room with his shoes off and his shirt untucked. The janitor said he heard noises from two different people before he turned on the lights and saw Gatson. The student told Seeley during the 2013 investigation that she was in one of two adjoining rooms when the custodian entered, records state. The student said nothing inappropriate happened between her and Gatson, school records say. When he was interviewed by Oman during the 2013 investigation, Gatson also denied that anything inappropriate happened with the student, according to school records. He added that the lights were on when he was in the room with the student until he turned them off to leave. He said he then went to a back room to turn off another light, records state. Oman at the time said in an email to Missy Hallead, then executive director of human resources for the district, that he did not feel like anything happened, but there were some definite blurred boundaries and very poor judgement by Shad. Gatson received a letter of admonishment from Oman for poor judgement and boundaries for the 2013 incident. He would receive another letter of admonishment in 2017 for having two female students in his class who werent scheduled to be there, records show. The school district said in its Jan. 4 email that it is hiring an independent third-party investigator to look into the school administrations past investigation of Gatson. With the information we had at the time, we followed all policies and procedures that were in place, Oman said in a statement included in the email to parents and staff. I followed all procedures as directed for a thorough investigation in 2013, Seeley said in the statement. I am grateful the victims have come forward with new information and will continue to cooperate to support the investigations. Tatum Todd is a breaking news reporter who covers public safety, crime and community news. Reach them at ttodd@oregonian.com or 503-221-4313. Andrew Grimm parked in downtown Portland, used the Parking Kitty app to pay for an hour and 19 minutes and then let his car sit for seven days as the tickets piled up. Finally, the city had the car towed. Grimm on Friday lost the second round in his seven-year effort to sue the city, alleging it violated his due process rights by not giving adequate warning of the tow. U.S. District Judge Michael W. Mosman earlier granted the citys motion to throw out the case. Grimm appealed and a three-judge federal appellate panel affirmed Mosmans ruling last week. The appellate courts ruling marked its second opinion in the case. In 2020, it sent the case back to Mosman after finding he had relied on the wrong legal standard for throwing out Grimms suit. The city provided reasonable warning and didnt violate Grimms 14th Amendment rights, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel ruled on Friday. Grimm and his lawyer had argued that the accumulation of parking tickets showed Grimm hadnt seen them and hadnt received proper notice. They cited a Washington, D.C., appeals court decision in contending that a government must send a notice by mail before towing a car. But the 9th Circuit said thats unnecessary and impractical. Our precedents have already made clear that a ticket placed on a car generally provides adequate notice of an impending tow, Judge Holly A. Thomas wrote in the 15-page opinion. Grimm had paid to park on Southwest Hall Street, between Fourth and Fifth avenues, from 5:41 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 14, 2017, using the Parking Kitty mobile app. He received notifications via his phone when his parking session was about to expire and when it did. He didnt pay to extend his time or start a new parking session or move his car. The vehicle registration for his Honda Accord was up to date at the time, but the registration tags on the license plates had expired in June 2017. A parking enforcement officer on Dec. 15 issued two citations and put them on the Accords windshield -- one for unlawful parking and another for failure to display current registration tags. On Dec. 18, an officer issued two more citations for the same violations and placed them on top of the other two. On Dec. 19, an officer put another citation on top of the stack for parking unlawfully and also placed a red slip warning on the car, saying it would be towed if not moved, with the word WARNING in large print. On Dec. 21, an officer placed a final red slip warning on the car , displaying the word TOW on one side. The officer then contacted Retriever Towing, which towed the Accord later that day. The final red tow notice that was placed on Andrew Grimm's Honda Accord on Dec. 21, 2017, two days after a parking enforcement officer put a red slip "WARNING," on the car informing the motorist the car would be towed if not moved.City of Portland court filing Once the car was towed, the city mailed a tow notice to the address listed on the cars registration but didnt otherwise try to contact Grimm. Grimm, 35, paid $514 to retrieve the car from the tow yard that Dec. 30. The next month on Jan. 29, 2018, he filed suit against the city. The appeals court found that the city provided Grimm with all the notice required by law, pointing out that Grimm had two days to avoid the tow. The ruling also noted that the city didnt readily know Grimms name and address because the car was registered to his father with a third-party lienholder. The city also had no access to Grimms information or any ability to contact him through the Parking Kitty app, the ruling said. But the appeals panel found that even if the car had been registered to Grimm or if the city could have gotten his phone number or email through the app, it wasnt required to track him down before having his car towed. The Washington, D.C., ruling involved notice required before a car is destroyed, not before its towed, the 9th Circuit noted. The appellate panel considered whether the city should have known that its attempts to notify Grimm of the violations had failed because the citations and tow slips remained undisturbed on the car. The 9th Circuit pointed out that nothing about the citys method of notice required Grimm to confirm he had received the citations or warning slips. Notice doesnt become adequate only when receipt is confirmed, the court ruled. Under the approach Grimm advocates, individuals would need to regularly remove citations from their vehicles to demonstrate that they had received notice and would have good incentive not to do so if they wished to avoid being towed, Thomas wrote. Gregory William Keenan, a lawyer with the New York-based Digital Justice Foundation who represented Grimm, argued that the city should have obtained the drivers email or phone number from the Parking Kitty app. Mr. Grimm had provided his contact information to Parking Kitty. He had been asked how hed like to be contacted. And he had received numerous individualized notices about his car and his cars parking status via Parking Kitty just not about the tow, Kennan wrote. Governments are doing less to meet their constitutional obligations to provide notice before taking someones property, even with advanced technology that makes it easier, he wrote. The city was obligated to use other methods to notify Grimm of the violations before towing the car, he argued. If the government has undertaken immense effort and spent millions of taxpayer dollars to digitally overhaul its parking regime around its own Parking Kitty app, is it too much to ask that the government request that the app provide notice through pre-existing means of communication or using the information collected via app? Kennan asked in his brief. The city countered that it didnt have access to the personal information Grimm provided to the parking app. A third party, Passport Inc., operates Parking Kitty, Deputy City Attorney Elsa C.W. Haag wrote in a court brief. The City contracts with Passport to provide a remote-payment alternative to paying at physical pay stations, which remain available, but the City did not design Parking Kitty and does not control its functionality, she wrote. Grimm ended up paying $10 for failure to display current registration. Neither Grimm nor his lawyer responded to email and phone messages seeking comment about the opinion or whether they may appeal further. The San Francisco Coalition On Homelessness, the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area and Bay Area Legal Aid submitted a joint friend-of-the-court brief in support of Grimms suit. They argued that cities should be required to take practicable steps, such as consulting existing, easily accessible electronic databases, to give car owners direct notice before seizing property. Yet the city of Los Angeles, city and county of Honolulu, League of California Cities and the Washington State Association of Municipal Attorneys submitted a joint friend-of-the-court brief in support of the city of Portlands position. Had the appellate panel favored Grimm, it would have imperiled towing regimes through the circuit, heralding a sea-change in practices, they argued. -- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com, follow her on X @maxoregonian, or on LinkedIn. Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com. A judge on Monday ordered the state to immediately free a prisoner who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain after finding the Oregon Department of Corrections in contempt for willfully and intentionally failing to address the mans conditions. Senior Circuit Judge Patricia A. Sullivan also directed the agency to foot the bill for Michael LaSeurs economy class air travel from Boise, Idaho, to his family in Pennsylvania and give him $50 a day for expenses while hes en route. The case centers on the medical care LaSeur received while incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution in eastern Oregon. It represents the latest court ruling calling out inadequate medical care in Oregons prison system. The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Department of Corrections beleaguered health care system. Two top administrators overseeing medical care were placed on paid leave last month amid unspecified investigations. LaSeur is an Army veteran who two years ago petitioned for better treatment for PTSD. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison in 2014 for a trio of armed robberies of Clackamas County pharmacies. He was originally slated for release in April. He sustained multiple injuries while deployed in Iraq, including a crushed cervical disc and traumatic brain injury, according to court records. LaSeur has hypertension, pain related to his cervical injury, headaches and chronic pain, among other conditions, court records show. Last fall, another senior Circuit Court judge, Jenefer Grant, ordered the Department of Corrections to provide LaSeur with PTSD treatment and directed prison staff to consult with experts on the best practices for addressing LaSeurs condition. Grant ordered the prison to provide MRIs for follow-up care, new pain relief medication and a stationary bike to help manage LaSeurs blood pressure. Since that ruling, the case has cycled through multiple contempt of court hearings to address what LaSeurs court-appointed lawyer, Tara Herivel, said was the states failure to deliver those court-mandated treatments. Sullivan ordered the Department of Corrections to pay Herivels fees for her work on those hearings. Those amount to an estimated $50,000. In her order, Sullivan said the care LaSeur needs may simply be impossible without a major change in institutional operations, coordination and culture, which at best will take time. She wrote that the state had made some improvement in some areas regarding LaSeurs care, but ultimately fell short. Therefore, this Court finds the appropriate remedy is release from custody, to enable (LaSeur) to receive the care he needs in a Veterans hospital facility and alleviate his suffering, the judge wrote. A spokesperson for the Department of Corrections declined to comment, but said LaSeur would be released Monday. Noelle Crombie is an enterprise reporter with a focus on criminal justice. Reach her at 503-276-7184; ncrombie@oregonian.com Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe. Portland police say a 69-year-old stranger who offered to help a 74-year-old woman carry groceries back to her downtown Portland home barricaded the woman inside and repeatedly raped her over the three days surrounding the Christmas holiday. Police said they arrested Kenneth Gregory Williams on Sunday more than a week after the woman reported her days-long ordeal. Williams is charged with first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping and three counts of first-degree rape for the alleged crimes that took place from Dec. 23 to Dec. 26. Ever since the Portland-filmed TV series Grimm ended its six-season run in 2017, diehard fans have wished that the show would somehow go on. Now, it looks like those wishes may finally be answered. Deadline reports that, according to sources, the streaming service Peacock is developing a reboot of the NBC series. As the Deadline story says, Josh Berman (Drop Dead Diva) is writing a Grimm-inspired movie, which hes executive producing along with veterans of the original series, including co-creators/executive producers and showrunners David Greenwalt and Jim Kouf, Sean Hayes and Todd Milliners Hazy Mills Productions, and Universal Television. Fans of the original know that David Giuntoli starred as Nick Burkhardt, a Portland Police homicide detective who inherited the family ability to identify Wesen -- the supernatural creatures that looked like ordinary humans to non-Grimms. The series filmed in the Portland area, with a cast that included Bitsie Tulloch, Russell Hornsby, Silas Weir Mitchell, Sasha Roiz, Reggie Lee, Bree Turner and Claire Coffee. The Deadline story says that the exact premise of the Grimm movie is kept under wraps, but that its thought to have ties to the original series while also introducing new elements that viewers unfamiliar with the original could easily access. As the Deadline report says, when it ran from 2011 through 2017, Grimm was one of Fridays highest-rated scripted series, and also did well internationally for NBCUniversal, and that a year after the show ended its run, NBC took a shot at developing a spinoff centered on a female Grimm, from writer Melissa Glenn, Hazy Mills and Universal TV, with Greenwalt and Kouf as consulting producers. Theres no word yet on when the reboot might appear, or other details, but if youre craving the original Grimm, the series is available to stream on platforms including Peacock and Amazon Prime Video. Kristi Turnquist covers features and entertainment. Reach her at 503-221-8227, kturnquist@oregonian.com or @Kristiturnquist Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe In the six years since his viral rescue along a busy Oregon road, Stickys legacy has exceeded that of the average cat. The feline internet sensation first turned heads in October 2018, when Chuck Hawley found Sticky, then a 5-week-old kitten, literally glued to a busy road in Silverton. A swift rescue, one adoption and a beloved childrens book series later, Stickys story has inspired thousands of kind messages and made its way into classrooms around the world. Sticky died about a week ago after a short but severe illness, according to the Oregon Humane Society but the kittens legacy in kindness and empathy is far from over. Stickys new mission, Hawley wrote on Facebook, is to encourage prospective pet owners to adopt, not shop, for their own furry friends. While visiting OHS Portland campus on his lunch break Thursday afternoon, Hawley experienced another heartfelt first feline encounter. As I walked by a cage covered with blue tarp, this paw stuck out, he wrote on his Instagram, @stickythekitty503. When I touched the paw, he didnt move it. When I opened the curtain, he looked like Sticky. Hawley adopted the cat a 6-month-old kitten he named Allen on Saturday. After adopting Sticky in 2018, Hawley received an influx of messages from readers sharing how theyd been inspired by his small act of kindness. The response encouraged Hawley to self-publish a series of childrens books featuring Sticky. The Sticky the Kitty series uses its feline protagonist to guide young readers through difficult situations, like the introduction of a new family member or loss of a loved one. It teaches empathy, confidence and trust. Through the Sticky the Kitty Foundation, Hawley and Sticky would visit local schools spreading the series message. The books made their way all over the United States and to more than 20 countries, including a school in Kenya and orphanage in Pakistan. In 2019, OHS named Hawley one of its annual Diamond Collar Heroes, an award celebrating his initial rescue of Sticky as well as the countless acts of kindness hed acted upon since. Chuck Hawley's rescue of cat Sticky from a busy Oregon road in 2018 made headlines. Here, he adopts a Allen, a 6-month-old kitten, at the Oregon Humane Society.Courtesy of Oregon Humane Society Veronica Nocera covers life and culture. You can reach her at vnocera@oregonian.com, 503-221-8111 or @vernocera The dead of winter is a busy time for Portlands dance scene. As 2025 kicks off, dance presenters White Bird offers a quartet of shows, including the return of the pioneering modern dance troupe the Martha Graham Dance Company, and the audience favorite drag dance company Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo. The ballet world offers a pair of classics: Grand Kyiv Ballet brings its adaptation of Swan Lake to the intimate Reser Center in Beaverton, and Oregon Ballet Theatre offers a world premiere with its new production of Giselle. Both explore matters of the heart, including hope, heartbreak and redemption. Heres a look at whats ahead. Swan Lake Grand Kyiv Ballet Tchaikovskys soaring, timeless score sets the stage for the story of a prince who falls in love with a beautiful swan princess. Dancers of the Ukrainian National Opera and Ballet Theater, who tour extensively under the Grand Kyiv Ballet name, bring their adaptation to the stage of Beavertons Reser Center, one of the Portland areas best new dance venues. Salem area ballet fans can catch the company the following night at the Grand Theater. 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 S.W. Crescent St., Beaverton; $54.50-$63.50, thereser.org. 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, Salems Historic Grand, 187 High St. NE, Salem; $59, salemshg.com. The legendary Martha Graham Dance Company returns to the White Bird Series on Jan. 22 with a centennial celebration featuring some of the late choreographers iconic works.Dragan Perkovski Martha Graham Dance Company presented by White Bird The groundbreaking Martha Graham Dance Company celebrates its centennial with this evening of Graham masterworks and new pieces. The program will include Grahams Errand into the Maze as well as Cave, a new work by Israeli choreographer Hofesh Schecter, which the New York Times describes as an uncomplicated, raucous transform-the-stage-into-a-club experience. Think rave meets flash mob and you get the idea. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway; $6-$102, whitebird.org. Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo, the 50-year-old drag ballet company returns to the White Bird dance series on Feb. 12 with a selection of its comic spoofs of classical dance. Photo courtesy of White Bird Les Ballets Trockadero De Monte Carlo presented by White Bird Long before Ru Pauls Drag Race made men in womens garb a pop cultural sensation, this all-male ballet company has been spoofing the high-brow artform. Once you look past the slapstick antics their spin on The Dying Swan is a riot and the fictitious artists bios, theres actually a lot of technique to admire. White Bird brings the men in tights back as part of The Trocks 50-anniversary tour. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway; $6-$102, whitebird.org. Giselle Oregon Ballet Theatre This new adaptation of the much-loved classical ballet is choreographed by Tiit Helimets and Dani Rowe, based on Jean Coralli and Jules Perrots original choreography from 1841. The story centers on a small-town girl who falls in love with a stranger. When things turn sour, she dies of grief, and her spirit joins forces the ghosts of other wronged women to extract revenge. Helimets recently retired from a long career with the San Francisco Ballet and collaborates with OBTs new artistic director Rowe for a production that will be performed five times with live orchestra. Various times and dates, Feb. 14-22, Keller Auditorium, 333 S.W. Clay St.; $32-$155, obt.org. Noche Flamenca stretches the boundaries of flamenco with theatricality and raw emotion. It will play a two-night run Feb. 26-27 at the intimate Newmark Theatre as part of the White Birds Uncaged series.Photo courtesy of White Bird Noche Flamenca presented by White Bird Searching For Goya is the latest dance created by Artistic Director Martin Santangelo and Noche Flamenca principal dancer Soledad Barrio. Its inspired by the some of the most famous paintings by Spanish artist Francisco de Goya. In a review for the New York Times last year, dance critic Brian Seibert said Searching for Goya was representative of Noche Flamencos essence: It has the companys signature virtues: excellent musicians; distinguished guest dancers; and a climactic solo by its star, Soledad Barrio. The aesthetic is unostentatious, only the essentials. And all this aligns well with Goya. It jibes with his tragic realism. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, Feb. 26-27, Newmark Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway; $6-$70, whitebird.org. CineVox: Dance Film Festival BodyVox Since its founding in 1997, the Portland dance troupe BodyVox has used the medium of film as a counterpart to its live performances. Its annual dance film festival CineVox offers three nights of movement as seen through the camera lens. Friday-Sunday, Feb. 28-March 2, BodyVox Dance Center, 1201 N.W. 17th Ave.; $25, bodyvox.org. Straight from South Korea, ChangMu Dance Company will perform its latest work , a showcase of the impressive skills of the dancers, on March 19 as part of White Birds We Are One festival.Photo courtesy of White Bird ChangMu Dance Company presented by White Bird Since 1976, South Koreas ChangMu Dance Company has been combining choreography with poetry and painting. With the new work HERE, the company incorporates traditional Korean dance, including shaman dance and Buddhist dance. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway; $6-$102, whitebird.org. Andrea Parson, William Couture perform Hedda. NW Dance Project revives its adaptation of the Ibsen classic March 28-29 at the Newmark Theater.Blaine Truitt Covert Hedda NW Dance Project Henrik Ibsens dark play Hedda Gabler is the inspiration for Artistic Director Sarah Slippers evening-length dance. First performed in 2018, it promises to be an emotionally intense program. 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, March 28-29, Newmark Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway; $29-$68, nwdanceproject.org. Grant Butler 503-221-8566; gbutler@oregonian.com; @grantbutler Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe After a whirlwind weekend in Portland, Mary Anne McNeish and Brendt Cyr had just one more task to complete before returning to Kansas City, Missouri: reserving their dream wedding venue. Arriving outside the Portland Parks & Recreation Customer Service Center at 4:30 a.m. Monday, the couple sat in fold-out chairs bundled up in coats, patiently waiting for the process to begin. Starting at 8 a.m., Portland Parks & Recreation began their in-person registration for 2025 wedding reservations. The morning event sees around 100 couples register their chosen venue and date at the downtown Portland center each year. READ MORE: Want to get married at a Portland park in 2025? Heres what you need to know We dont have an alternate date, McNeish said about the couples wedding. We already have everything else planned, so we have a lot riding on today. McNeish and Cyr have been engaged since December 2023. With the challenges of planning a wedding out of state, the allure of a beautiful and inexpensive venue in Portland parks has made all the hassle worth it. I wanted to get married in a forest, and we saw the Redwood Deck like last year, McNeish said. Weve been waiting with anticipation since about April to come here. Mary Anne McNeish and Brendt Cyr wait outside the Portland Parks & Recreation Customer Service Center in downtown Portland.Chiara Profenna After finding a Portland-based photographer online, pictures from Hoyt Arboretum convinced McNeish and Cyr to take the leap and get married out of state. Around them, couples passed the time reading books, playing games or talking with neighbors. Some had been there for hours; many arrived in the early hours to get in line and secure their venue and date. Chloe and Harley Henry arrived at 1 a.m. to make sure they got their dream location: Hoyt Arboretum. We didnt sleep, Chloe said. The couple stayed up the night before to be here early and were the second couple in line. Hoping to book the most popular Portland Parks wedding venue, they were in good company. More than 30 couples lined up by 6 a.m. were aiming for a Hoyt Arboretum wedding. Other common locations included Peninsula Park and Mount Tabor. We just love the city, we love the nature and we love the Portland parks, Chloe said. It just means a lot to us. By 8 a.m., 93 couples had been assigned a ticket number for processing. Inside, staff led them to a waiting room with coffee and breakfast items. The process moved quickly from there as permit administrators processed each couple in separate rooms. We will produce all in person permits between the hours of 8 a.m. to 12, said Amanda Zyph, supervisor at Portland Parks & Recreation. Depending on the capacity, volume that we see, we expect to finish before noon and then at one oclock, well open for online, by phone, in person and mail in requests. A new part of wedding reservation day this year was a vendor showcase. In a separate room, photographers, musicians, officiants, florists, bakeries and other vendors promoted their services to the newly engaged couples. Natalie Woodrum of Here Today Photography takes photos of couples at the vendor showcase.Chiara Profenna So this was a great opportunity for us to collaborate with wedding services in the industry, Zyph said. To give (couples) more ability to look at whats out there, encourage participation at the event. Catherine Garvin, a certified clinical and therapeutic musician, was hoping to break into the wedding scene. After receiving an invitation from Portland Parks & Recreation to participate in their first vendor showcase, she jumped on the opportunity. This year, I decided it might be fun to do some ceremonial music at weddings, because it brings hope and love in the world, Garvin said. Offering harp, guitar and singing to accompany a ceremony, Garvin said that playing music always brings out the best in her. If two people are even if just for that day committing to love in the world and making that sort of statement, what better place to be for hope than to be next to somebody whos saying, I love you, I care about you, youre a miracle in my life, Garvin said. Catherine Garvin, offering harp, guitar and singing services meets couples at the vendor showcase.Chiara Profenna Among the happy couples browsing the vendors displays, Charlie Dever passed through the lobby after receiving a permit. Dever, who arrived at 9 p.m. Sunday, was first in line. Camping out solo outside the building, Dever represented their partner, who was unable to attend due to work. I figured people would probably start showing up a little after midnight, but I got a friend to drive me down, and I didnt want to make her drive at one in the morning, Dever said. Their dedication was not in vain. With a huge smile, they confirmed their wedding plans: May 31 at the Redwood Deck, Hoyt Arboretum. Chiara Profenna covers religion, faith and cultural connections. Reach her at 503-221-4327; cprofenna@oregonian.com or @chiaraprofenna. The Oregonian/OregonLive receives support from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to bring readers stories on religion, faith and cultural connections in Oregon. The Oregonian/OregonLive is solely responsible for all content. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. On January 7, during an interview with local television channels, President Ilham Aliyev brought up an issue regarding France that had never been discussed before. I think it will help somehow get out of the crisis. Over the past few months, we have been receiving signals from representatives of the French government to establish contacts I remember there have been three or four of them from different personalities to our different representatives, and the answer has always been, We are ready. Yes, we are ready today, but we will not go anywhere, neither to Paris nor to Brussels. If you need to meet with us, you can meet with us here in Baku, said the Azerbaijani leader. The President noted that there was recently another diplomatic dispatch to talk and discuss. "There was recently another diplomatic dispatch, let's say a verbal one: to talk and discuss. Again, we are ready, we have nothing to dispute with them, we have no claims to this country. The main thing is that they do not touch us, do not interfere in our affairs and do not interfere in the affairs of the South Caucasus. This is already a demand we are articulating quite clearly. Because wherever the French authorities interfere, first of all, they fail shamefully, and secondly, they only introduce intrigue. Nothing but intrigue. There is no point in talking about Africa, everything is in plain sight, as they say. The same applies to the South Caucasus. In Azerbaijan, their presence is practically reduced to zero, except for some companies that have a long-term contract. And we always respect all our obligations, so we have never extrapolated political difficulties to the operations of companies. The French companies still operating here should not be blamed for having such a government. The attempts to destabilize Georgia are obvious. It is no secret that it was done so undiplomatically and publicly that it is even surprising for a country with such diplomatic traditions. And full control over Armenia is also a reality. But it is not going to work, and they have to realize that if they want some kind of presence in the South Caucasus. They have to talk to us. We will see. Anyway, I have revealed a little bit more than I usually do, but given your question and given that we didn't go below the basement, I think it will be useful for everybody to have some new information," President Ilham Aliyev said. PARIS Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of Frances far-right National Front who was known for fiery rhetoric against immigration and multiculturalism that earned him both staunch supporters and widespread condemnation, died Tuesday. He was 96. A polarizing figure in French politics, Le Pen was convicted numerous times of antisemitism, discrimination and inciting racial violence. Yet, despite those convictions and his eventual political estrangement, the nativist ideas that propelled his decades of popularity encapsulated in slogans like French People First remain ascendant in todays France, across Europe and beyond. His statements including Holocaust denial, racist denunciations of Muslims and immigrants, and his 1987 proposal to forcibly isolate people with AIDS in special facilities shocked his critics and strained his political alliances. Le Pen routinely countered that he was simply a patriot protecting the identity of eternal France. Le Pen, who reached the second round of the 2002 presidential election, was eventually estranged from his daughter, Marine Le Pen, who renamed his National Front party, kicked him out and transformed it into one of Frances most powerful political forces while distancing herself from her fathers extremist image. Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally as the party is now known, confirmed Le Pens death in a post on social media platform X. Bardellas unusually warm tribute described Le Pen as a tribune of the people and expressed condolences to his family. The post appeared to blur the distance the rebranded party had sought to establish between its firebrand founder and its more polished, modern direction under Marine Le Pen. French President Emmanuel Macron, a centrist, expressed his condolences to (Le Pens) family and friends, in an uncharacteristically short statement issued by the presidential palace. A historic figure of the far right, he played a role in the public life of our country for almost 70 years, which is now a matter for history to judge, the statement read. Marine Le Pen, thousands of miles away in the French territory of Mayotte, was inspecting the aftermath of destructive Cyclone Chido at the time of her fathers death. His death came at a crucial time for his daughter. She now faces a potential prison term and a ban on running for political office if convicted in an embezzling trial. A former paratrooper and Foreign Legionnaire who fought in Indochina and Algeria, the fiery Jean-Marie Le Pen was a wily political strategist and gifted orator who used his charisma to captivate crowds with his anti-immigration message. The portly, silver-haired son of a Breton fisherman viewed himself as a man with a mission to keep France French under the banner of the National Front. Picking Joan of Arc as the partys patron saint, Le Pen made Islam, and Muslim immigrants, his primary target, blaming them for the economic and social woes of France. If I advance, follow me; if I die, avenge me; if I shirk, kill me, Le Pen said at a 1990 party congress, reflecting the theatrical style that for decades fed the fervor of followers. Le Pen, who lost an eye in a street fight in his youth and for years wore a black eyepatch, was a constant force in French political life, impossible for politicians of the left or right to ignore. In election after election, he proved the spoiler, forcing rivals to scramble to counter him. Today, the National Rally, the successor to the party he founded, has not only solidified its presence in French politics but also pushed Macron to the right on security and immigration, reflecting a broader shift in the political landscape. Le Pen was notably convicted in 1990 for a radio remark made three years earlier in which he referred to the Nazi gas chambers as a detail in World War II history. In 2015, he repeated the remark, saying he did not at all regret it, triggering the ire of his daughter by then the party leader and a new conviction in 2016. He also was convicted for a 1988 remark linking in a play on words a Cabinet minister with the Nazi crematory ovens, and for a 1989 comment blaming the Jewish international for helping seed this anti-national spirit. In another setback, Le Pen lost his European Parliament seat in 2002 for a year for assaulting a Socialist politician during a 1997 election campaign. More recently, Le Pen and 26 National Front officials, including his daughters Marine and Yann Le Pen, have been accused of using money destined for EU parliamentary aides to pay staff who instead did political work for the party between 2004 and 2016, in violation of the 27-nation blocs regulations. Jean-Marie Le Pen was deemed unfit to testify. French judicial authorities placed Le Pen under legal guardianship in February at the request of his family as his health declined, French media reported. He had been in frail health for some time. Born June 20, 1928, in the Brittany village of Trinite-Sur-Mer, to Jean Le Pen, a fisherman who would die in World War II, and his wife Anne-Marie, Jean-Marie Le Pen proved an ambitious son attracted early on to the extreme right. Armed with law and political science degrees, Le Pen made his way to Paris, and at 27 became the youngest lawmaker in the National Assembly under the banner of the Union for the Defense of Shopkeepers and Artisans, run by Pierre Poujade. His career never strayed from the far-right path. In 1963, he and Leon Gaultier, who served in the Waffen SS, founded a company, SERP, that churned out political discourses. With the neo-fascist group New Order, Le Pen founded the National Front on Oct. 5, 1972. It would take more than a decade for the party to emerge as a political force in a September 1983 municipal election when Jean-Pierre Stirbois won 16.7% of the votes in the town of Dreux, west of Paris. A year later, the party won 11% in European parliamentary elections and seated 10 deputies. The message was clear: France could no longer ignore Le Pen. The partys entry as a force in national politics came two years later in legislative elections that gave Le Pens party 35 seats in Frances National Assembly. By then, Le Pen had replaced the black eyepatch and begun polishing his scrappy image. In 1988, he startled the nation by taking 14% of the vote in the first round of presidential elections. Fourteen years later, in his fifth bid for the presidency, he outdid that scoring 16.8%, coming second behind Jacques Chirac and reaching the two-man runoff. France shuddered, Europe trembled and the National Front gloated. But a Le Pen victory was not to be. In a rare joining of forces, supporters of the right and left poured into the streets of France in a massive show of solidarity against him. On May 5, 2002, Chirac was returned to office with a record 82% of the vote. Throughout the years, Le Pens political line never wavered. In a 2003 speech, he said he wanted the notion of national preference written into the French Constitution to limit employment, housing opportunities and other social assistance to French citizens. Immigration is the greatest danger were facing, he said. Me? Racist? Its a gag, a gag, Le Pen once told The Associated Press. But Im not for the melting pot. Im for the defense of ones culture. Id despair if I found the culture of Brooklyn in France. His private life was tumultuous. An explosion destroyed the family apartment building in 1976 but injured neither Le Pen nor his wife and three children. The French media relished recounting Le Pens divorce saga from wife Pierrette Lalanne. In a reflection of that bitter separation, she famously posed for Playboy in 1987, partly dressed in a risque maids costume. The magazine quoted her as saying she was responding to her husbands Playboy interview in which he said she could become a housekeeper if she needed money. He married for a second time in 1991, to Jeanne-Marie Paschos, known as Jany. Le Pen began laying the groundwork for his succession at a party congress in 2003, naming Marine the youngest of his three daughters to the post of vice president. In 2011, she became party president and in 2017 and 2022 reached the presidential runoff herself. Both times she lost to centrist Emmanuel Macron. She is considered a leading contender for the next presidential election in 2027. But her softer style and attempts to distance the party from the most extreme of her fathers views soon brought her into conflict with him. His refusal to desist from antisemitic provocations clashed with her bid to rid the National Front of its pariah status. She removed him from the party he co-founded, and in 2018 divested him of his title of honorary president-for-life. A few months later she changed the National Front name to National Rally as part of her strategy to renew the partys image. Her father called it the toughest blow the party had faced since its founding. Throughout his life, Jean-Marie Le Pen refused to cede, or be silenced. Im a moral authority for the movement ... and I dont have the habit of keeping my opinions to myself, Le Pen told The AP in 2014 as the father-daughter feud gained momentum. As Le Pens health deteriorated in recent years, he was hospitalized several times, including after he suffered a stroke. Le Pen is survived by his wife and three daughters, Marie-Caroline, Yann and Marine. -- The Associated Press 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 Washington, D.C.s federal court despite Trumps promise to pardon rioters, whom he has called political prisoners and hostages he contends were treated too harshly. More than a dozen people from the Pacific Northwest have been prosecuted for crimes stemming from the takeover. Most have been sentenced but two are scheduled to be sentenced later this month. One is charged and out of custody pending trial. 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. 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. Heres 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. 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 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 Trumps 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. 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 Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20. Scope of Trumps 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. 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, D.C.s federal court have condemned the depiction of the rioters as political prisoners, and some have raised alarm about the potential pardons. 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. -- The Associated Press At least 13 people from the Pacific Northwest have been prosecuted for crimes stemming from the Jan. 6, 2021, takeover of the U.S. Capitol. Ten have been sentenced. Two are scheduled to be sentenced in federal court in the District of Columbia later this month. One is charged and out of custody pending trial. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. On January 7, during an interview with local television channels, President Ilham Aliyev spoke about the insulting remarks made by the mullah of Ardabil towards Azerbaijan and its citizens. "As for the provincial mullah's hateful attitude towards us, this is not the first time. That mullah from the city of Ardabil has repeatedly used insulting expressions against Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani people, including me. The question here is what the attitude of the person who appointed him to that position is. After all, he did not come and sit there on his own. We know very well who appointed him. What is his reaction, does he support this or not, and who will apologize to Azerbaijan? Will they apologize or not? The regret in the statement of the Iranian Foreign Ministry is not enough. There was an open insult: both the presidents of Turkiye and Azerbaijan, our peoples, and during a live broadcast at an official event. And only regret? This, of course, is unacceptable. Therefore, we believe that the provincial mullah should be punished. At the very least, he should be dismissed from his post and made to apologize to Azerbaijan. This is the point," President Ilham Aliyev said. Finch Paper Announces Promotion of Drew Gardner as Chief Executive Officer Drew Gardner Drew Gardner Jan. 3, 2025 - Finch Paper announced the promotion of Drew Gardner as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 1, 2025. Gardner succeeds Debabrata Mukherjee, who has led the company since 2013 and will continue his service to Finch Paper as Chairman of the Board. Gardner joined Finch Paper as Vice President, Operations in July 2023 and was named President and CFO in April 2024. Prior to Finch, he was a Senior Associate with Atlas Holdings, which has owned and operated Finch since 2007. Earlier in his career, Gardner held positions at Blackstone and General Electric. He earned a dual degree in Energy Engineering and Finance from Penn State University. Mukherjee commented, "I have had the pleasure of working with Drew over the past year to ensure that our team, customers and partners would be well served through this transition and beyond, and I look forward to seeing where he will take Finch in this next chapter of this storied business." Gardner stated, "During Deba's tenure with Finch, the company has been transformed from a highly product-concentrated mill into one of the most diversified, flexible and stable paper businesses serving the uncoated freesheet market. Over the past year, I've seen firsthand the dedication of our Leadership Team and associates, the loyalty of our customers and the opportunities that lie ahead of us. Finch Paper's legacy is built on exceptional products and the generations of people who have made our story possible. I'm honored to be entrusted with Finch Paper's tradition as a best-in-class paper supply partner and an economic driver in New York's capital region." Finch Paper is a vertically integrated paper manufacturer specializing in high-bright, uncoated papers for North American printing and converting markets. SOURCE: Finch Paper When Qualcomm cancelled its Snapdragon Dev Kit, it seemingly dashed the hopes of a small-form-factor desktop powered by a Snapdragon X Elite CPU. But dont worry! Lenovo has stepped in with its IdeaCentre Mini x a tiny, cool, Snapdragon X-equipped desktop. At CES 2025, Lenovo showed off the SFF desktop, priced at $659.99 and expected to ship in April. Incidentally, thats a substantial discount from Qualcomms $900 Dev Kit that was discontinued in October 2024. While Qualcomms Snapdragon X platform captured about two dozen laptops, some have been wondering whether desktop PCs would also benefit from the chips low-power capabilities. Qualcomm executives did tease Snapdragon desktops, and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon said that the company was targeting mini-desktops thats exactly what Lenovos new IdeaCentre is. It turns out that its very much like a Chromebox except with a Snapdragon chip inside. Lenovos IdeaCentre Mini x, with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip inside. Lenovo The IdeaCentre Mini x itself measures 7.68 x 7.52 x 1.68 inches, which makes for a tidy little desktop device. Inside the new IdeaCentre Mini x is either a Snapdragon X Plus or Snapdragon X chip; unfortunately, Lenovo isnt saying which, or how fast it will run. Lenovo will offer the option of up to 32GB of LPDDR5x (8488MHz) RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, which all makes for a compact little powerhouse of a PC, with just a 150W power supply inside. Otherwise, the IdeaCentre Mini x offers both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a ports to connect to an external display, Wi-Fi 7, and three USB-A ports (of which two are the faster 10Gbps variety). Lenovos ThinkCentre has a nice combination of ports mounted on the rear. Lenovo Think of the IdeaCentre Mini x as a compact, desk-bound version of something like a Surface Laptop. While it wont offer gaming capabilities, it should serve as a very nice and tidy office machine for everyday work. Its official: Nvidias next generation of gaming graphics is here, and friends, the GeForce RTX 50-series looks pretty compellingly priced on paper. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced eight different GeForce RTX 50-series graphics cards during his CES 2025 keynote four for desktop, and four for laptops, all compatible with a new DLSS 4 generation. The same GPUs were announced for both form factors: The GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, and 5070. It was a big difference from AMDs keynote, where RDNA 4 and the Radeon RX 9070 werent even mentioned despite press receiving a high-level briefing. Lets start with Nvidias hotly anticipated desktop graphics cards, powered by Nvidias new Blackwell architecture. Theyre actually cheaper than expected, with lower prices than their predecessorsexcept for the RTX 5090. But theres a reason for that. Meet Nvidias RTX 50-series desktop graphics cards Nvidia I was convinced that the GeForce RTX 5090 would cost $2,500 or more based off the leaked specs. Well, Jensen didnt really get into product level specs, but at $1,999, its a relative bargain for AI researchers, if not necessarily gamers. With 32GB of VRAM and a beefy 512-bit bus, paired with Nvidias flagship Blackwell GPU, this thing will be ferocious in gaming, but unparalleled in machine learning tasks if you cant afford a pricey Nvidia enterprise-class card. Nvidia The theme goes down the line: At $999, the RTX 5080 costs $200 less than the 4080 did at launch (and the same as the RTX 4080 Super). At $749 and $549, the RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5070 cost $50 less than their predecessors (though to be fair, I called the RTX 4070 Ti hobbled and wildly overpriced). Better yet, Jensen said that the RTX 5070 delivers RTX 4090-class performance for roughly a third of the price. Inside the new dual-fan double flow through Nvidia Founders Edition design, with an absolutely miniscule PCB. Nvidia If thats true in games and not just AI workloads or benchmarks, its an exciting start to the new generation but be warned that these starting prices for Nvidias overhauled Founders Edition versions may not reflect the same price youll see on custom third-party cards. Nvidias announcement post for the 50-series, published after the keynote, includes some high level performance details for each desktop GPU, but only in full ray tracing and DLSS-enabled situations. Since we have no tangible idea what sort of performance benefits DLSS 4 brings, take these with a bunch punch of salt for now. It shows whats possible though. Nvidia Nvidia says the RTX 5090 is 2X Faster Than The GeForce RTX 4090; the RTX 5080 is Twice As Fast As The GeForce RTX 4080; the RTX 5070 is 2X Faster Than The GeForce RTX 4070 Ti; and the RTX 5070 is as fast as the RTX 4090. Again, only expect to reach those high-water marks in specific games and scenarios that support the full suite of Nvidia ray tracing and DLSS features. The RTX 5090 offers wayyyyyy more CUDA cores than the 4090, so it should be a beast no matter what, while the lower-tier RTX 50-series cards have more modest CUDA upgrades, so Blackwells architectural changes (and DLSS 4) may need to do some heavy lifting if Nvidia plans on offering big performance uplifts. Well see! Look for RTX 50-series graphics cards to start hitting the market later this January in some form. Nvidia didnt say which cards are launching when. Nvidia GeForce RTX 50-series laptops Usually, Nvidia launches desktop GPUs well before their laptop counterparts, but not with the RTX 50-series! Well, kinda. Theyre launching in March, while the desktop cards launch this month, but Jensen revealed both onstage. Nvidia Details were scant beyond what you see in the screenshot above. The GeForce RTX 5090 will be available in laptops starting at $2,899; the RTX 5080 in laptops starting at $2,199; the RTX 5070 Ti in laptops starting at $1,599; and the RTX 5070 in laptops starting at $1,299. Pay close attention to the cited AI TOPs under the model numbers for both the laptop and desktop GPUs, though. Laptop graphics tend to be cut-down from their desktop cousins, and the AI TOPS suggests thats the case with the RTX 50-series too. The RTX 5090 desktop card offers 3,400 AI TOPS while the laptop version hits 1,850 about the same level as the desktop RTX 5080. (No surprise there, as the laptop 4090 is basically a desktop 4080 stuffed into a notebook.) The same trend continues down the laptop 50-series line. Update: Nvidias GeForce website provided more specs after the keynote and yep, my initial suspicions were correct. Be sure to also pay attention to memory capacity (especially for the RTX 5070) and bus width size, in addition to CUDA core counts. That laptop 5090 is nowhere near the firepower of the desktop 5090 (though Nvidia wisely increased the memory capacity of the laptop 5090 over the desktop 5080), and the laptop 5070 offers just 8GB of VRAM over a 128-bit bus a skimpy total that frankly doesnt cut it at even 1080p resolution in 2025s latest games, though Nvidia may argue that DLSS 4s AI benefits reduce memory demands. Whats inside Blackwell? Nvidia Thats all well and good, but how do these puppies perform? Jensen didnt get into details on-stream, instead relaying some high-level Blackwell specs that matter more for AI researchers than gamers AI TOPS, RT TFLOPS, AI management processor, and the like. You can see it all in the screenshot above. On the plus side, at least some of Nvidias RTX 50-series will include bleeding-edge GDDR7 memory, helping to deliver up to 1.8TB/s of memory bandwidth, or twice what was possible with its predecessor. It will also offer dual shaders for INT and floating point calculations (the big two for traditional gaming graphics), the ability to intermix GPU and AI workloads as needed, and programmable GPU shaders that can process neural network tasks. If it sounds like Nvidia is going all-in on AI, well, they have been for years. Havent you seen DLSS and DLSS 3 Frame Gen? On that note, Jensen also teased DLSS 4, complete with neural texture compression and neural materials that reduce the need for traditional GPU rendering even further. Nvidia says that while DLSS 3 could inject AI-generated frames between every GPU-rendered frame, DLSS 4 can infer three full frames off of a single traditional frame. Hey, AI upscaling is killing native graphics, after all. Jensen said that a total of about 33 million pixels are generated for four frames of 4K imagery; with DLSS 4, thats still true, but the GPU is only rendering about two million of those, with AI doing the rest of the heavy lifting. You can read much more about DLSS 4 and multi-frame generation on Nvidias website if youre interested. As DLSS 3 users who forgot to turn on Nvidia Reflex can tell you, injecting AI-generated frames also injects latency though Reflex can claw it back. Thats a much, much more pronounced problem when youre using AI to create multiple frames. Enter Nvidia Reflex 2, which uses frame warp technology to reduce latency by up to 75 percent. Its complicated stuff, so watch the video and hit that link for an in-depth explanation of the technology if youre interested in more details. Bonkers and potentially very, very game changing if it works as advertised. Thats a big if, though, and there are plenty of questions still swirling around the RTX 50-series capabilities after Nvidias detail-light keynote. Stay tuned to PCWorld (and PCWorlds YouTube channel!) for all the latest updates and news coming from CES 2025. Editors note: This article was updated to include videos of MSI and Gigabyte 50-series graphics cards. After bringing the romance of Peter Parker and Mary Jane to the big screen, Spider-Man co-stars Tom Holland and Zendaya are engaged after three years of dating. TMZ first reported the couples engagement on Monday. The media outlet stated that a source shared that Holland proposed to the Euphoria and Dune: Part 2 actress during the holidays. The proposal was very intimate and not over the top and was done in one of Zendayas family homes, the site said. The investigation into the death of a 17-year-old Lycoming County girl whose body was found more than 45 years ago in a California vineyard remains active, authorities there say. DNA evidence preserved from when the body was recovered in 1979 is being looked at, a spokesperson for the San Bernardino sheriffs office, said Monday. It was advanced DNA testing and forensic genetic genealogy that resulted in authorities last April being able to identify the remains of Karen Marie Heverly who had lived in Jersey Shore. No one stirs division quite like U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-PA. If hes not on FOX News, hes on Newsmax or another far-right media outlet, railing against Democratic policies. At least Democrats offer actual policies, while Republicans like Meuser keep stalling on big promiseslike Trumps day one affordable healthcare plan from 2016 that never materialized. Now, Meuser is back on airwaves, this time blaming diversity, equity, and onclusion (DEI) for a tragic pickup truck attack in New Orleans. DEI, for those unfamiliar is the concept that all people, regardless of race, gender, or background, deserve to be treated equally. Somehow, this foundational American value has become a punching bag for Republicans, with Meuser leading the charge. Meusers reaction is baffling. DEI doesnt promote violenceit promotes understanding, fairness, and inclusion. Yet, far-right figures are twisting the tragedy in New Orleans into a bizarre attack on wokeness, a term theyve warped into a catch-all for anything resembling progress or equality. This is not the leadership Pennsylvania deserves. The Wyoming Valley, once known as the Valley with a Heart, is becoming the Heartless Valley, thanks to leaders like Dan Meuser who promote division rather than solutions. We can and must do betterfor our community and for our country. Scott Cannon, Plymouth, Pa. By Gillian McGoldrick, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) PHILADELPHIA 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. 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. 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 Pennsylvaniafamilies and communities. Bonder declined to detail the scenarios for which the administration is preparing. President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)AP 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. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer listens to instructions before simulating a reactor shutdown at the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in Covert, Michigan on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Joel Bissell | MLive.com 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. 2025 The Philadelphia Inquirer, LLC. Visit at inquirer.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 8. Serving as President of Azerbaijan is a great responsibility and honor, said President Ilham Aliyev during an interview with local television channels on January 7, Trend reports. "First of all, it is a great responsibility. First and foremost, I approach my duty in this way: every day, every hour, day and night. Secondly, it is a great honor. Of course, I have been especially happy lately. For the past four years, my life has been completely different. All of our lives are different. We all live, wake up, and travel abroad with a completely different mindset. To live, work, and engage in international contacts as a representative, especially the leader, of a victorious country is a completely different feeling. Considering that for 17 years, we were in a completely different situationdespite being in the right, we were considered wrong. During these 17 years, there were many moments that remained out of the public eye, moments that deeply angered, saddened, and hurt. Injusticebecause, how can I put it, the greatest injustice is injustice itself. Today, the foundation of progress in every field and aspect lies in positive emotions, good spirits, the comfort of our society, and a sense of self-confidence. I know that the Azerbaijani people stand behind me. The Azerbaijani people also know that I stand behind themthis is a unique feeling. Many may not have experienced this, especially as someone who has led the country during two different periods, which perhaps makes it a unique experience. Even though four years have passed, it is still difficult to fully comprehend. I have visited the liberated territories perhaps more than 100 times, and every time I go, I say the same words to myself, share the same joy. It feels as if I am there for the first time. Just as you feel, I feel the same. Of course, there is a sense of responsibility and pride. We live in a country where, first and foremost, we can take pride in our nation and our people," President Ilham Aliyev said. Winter weather alerts ended Monday evening across central Pennsylvania, with the storms effects confined to southern New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. There, a winter storm warning was still posted until 4 a.m. Tuesday for another inch or two of snow. Accumulations from Maryland south to the North Carolina line were averaging 6 to 8 inches, with a couple of spots reporting up to a foot. Temperatures across central Pa. are expected to drop into the teens overnight with breezy conditions, National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters said. The rest of the week will be cold but mostly clear, with temperatures hovering right at or below freezing through Sunday, according to the NWS. Tuesday will be another frigid day with highs near 30, partly sunny skies, and up to 30 mph winds, and Wednesday will be a carbon copy of that. Forecasters are saying wind chills Wednesday night could fall to near zero, with temperatures dropping into the mid-teens. Skies will be clear Thursday and Friday, with highs around 30 on Thursday and in the mid-30s on Friday. By comparison, the forecast for State College calls for flurries Tuesday afternoon into the evening and again on Wednesday, with highs in the 20s on both days and winds gusting 20 to 30 mph through Wednesday night. Wind chills could fall to minus-10 on Wednesday night into Thursday. NWS forecasters are saying now that theres a 40 percent chance of snow for Harrisburg after 1 a.m. Saturday, with 1 to 2 inches possibly accumulating this weekend. AccuWeather warns that if that storm crossing the southern states develops rapidly once it hits the Atlantic Ocean and turns north up the coast, it could bring a round of heavy snow to parts of the East Coast, including central Pa., this weekend. As of around 4 p.m. Monday, the NWS had compiled these snow depths across central Pa.: Cumberland County: 2 inches Dauphin County: 1 to 2 inches York County: 3 to 3 1/2 inches Lancaster County: 2 to 3 inches Lebanon County: 1 to 2 inches We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 8. I believe it would be appropriate for Armenias Prime Minister to meet with representatives of the Western Azerbaijan Community. To my knowledge, they are even ready to travel to Yerevan, said President Ilham Aliyev during an interview with local television channels on January 7, Trend reports. The head of state noted that these people were unjustly expelled from those lands and have every right to return. Armenia portrays itself as a country pursuing the path of European democracy. Let them demonstrate this visibly, the head of state noted, stressing, this issue will not be excluded from the agenda until Azerbaijanis can settle in Western Azerbaijan, including in West Zangezur, under secure conditions. 12 Ring-Awarding Events Scheduled at WSOPC Marrakech; First Event Jan. 10 Matthew Pitt Senior Editor Copy link The Casino de Marrakech at the luxurious Es Saadi Marrakech Resort in Morocco again plays host to the World Series of Poker International Circuit between January 10-19. During the ten-day poker extravaganza, 12 coveted WSOPC rings will be won, including one in the eagerly-anticipated WSOPC Marrakech Main Event. January 10 sees the first of 12 WSOPC ring-awarding events shuffle up and deal, the No-Limit Hold'em Opener. It features a trio of starting flights, each costing the equivalent of 400, and crowns its champion on January 12 during Day 2. Last year, Frederik Thiemer outlasted 688 opponents on his way to capturing MAD 500,000 ($50,887). The ring events come thick and fast throughout WSOPC Marrakech, each complemented by affordable side events. The MAD 15,000 (1,350) buy-in Main Event is the tournament everyone heading to Morocco wants to win, and the PokerNews live reporting team is covering it from Day 1A on January 16 through to the worthy champion being crowned on January 19. This year's WSOPC Marrakech Main Event has a trio of Day 1s, including a late-night Day 1C on January 17. Then, it heads into Day 2 and then a third and final day, which runs from 1:00 p.m. local time on January 19. Expect a bumper crowd to turn out for the Main Event if the 2024 edition is anything to go by. Twelve months ago, 1,163 players bought in and created a MAD 14,893,000 ($1,513,847) prize pool. British grinder Max Deveson was the last man standing. His reward? MAD 2,150,000 ($218,543) and a WSOPC ring. WSOP International Circuit Marrakech Schedule Date Time Event Buy-in (MAD) Approx EUR Buy-in Fri 10 Jan 4:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #1 NLHE Opener Day 1A 4,600 400 9:00 p.m. Last Chance Opener Satellite 650 60 Sat 11 Jan 2:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #1 NLHE Opener Day 1B 4,600 400 6:00 p.m. Flip & Go to WSOPC Opener 600 60 9:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #1 NLHE Opener Day 1C 4,600 400 Sun 12 Jan 2:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #2 NLHE 8-Handed 4,100 350 4:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #1 NLHE Opener Day 2 6:00 p.m. NLHE Knockout Bounty 2,100 200 9:00 p.m. WSOPC High Roller Satellite 2,550 250 Mon 13 Jan 1:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #3 NLHE Mini Main Event Day 1A 6,200 550 5:00 p.m. Sat & Cash Satellite 1,600 150 9:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #3 NLHE Mini Main Event Day 1B 6,200 550 Tue 14 Jan 1:00 p.m. Ring Event #3 NLHE Mini Main Event Day 2 2:00 p.m. High Roller Satellite 3,400 300 3:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #4 NLHE High Roller Day 1 20,200 1,800 5:00 p.m. Main Event Satellite 1,850 170 9:00 p.m. NLHE KO Bounty 2,600 250 Wed 15 Jan 1:00 p.m. Ring Event #5 NLHE Short Handed 6,100 550 2:00 p.m. NLHE High Roller Day 2 4:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #6 Pot Limit Omaha 6,100 550 4:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #7 NLHE Ladies 5,100 450 5:00 p.m. Main Event Satellite 1,850 170 9:00 p.m. NLHE Classic Deepstack 2,600 250 Thu 16 Jan 12:30 p.m. Main Event Satellite 1,850 170 1:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #8 NLHE Main Event Day 1A 15,000 1,350 6:00 p.m. NLHE Progressive Bounty 2,400 230 9:00 p.m. Last Chance Main Event Satellite 2,050 190 Fri 17 Jan 1:00 p.m. WSOP Ring Event #8 NLHE Main Event Day 1B 15,000 1,350 4:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #9 NLHE Freezeout 5,100 450 7:00 p.m. Sat & Cash Satellite 1,550 150 9:00 p.m. NLHE Mystery Bounty 3,100 300 10:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #8 NLHE Main Event Day 1C 15,000 1,350 Sat 18 Jan 1:00 p.m. Main Event Day 2 2:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #10 NLHE Monster Stack Day 1 6,200 550 4:00 p.m. NLHE Progressive Bounty 2,400 240 6:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #11 NLHE High Roller PKO 10,200 900 8:00 p.m. Super High Roller Turbo Satellite 2,050 190 Sun 19 Jan 1:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #12 NLHE Turbo 5,100 450 1:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #8 Main Event Day 3 1:30 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #13 NLHE Super High Roller 30,200 2,700 2:00 p.m. WSOPC Ring Event #10 Monster Stack Day 2 5:00 p.m. NLHE The Closer Deepstack Turbo Freezeout 2,600 250 2025 WSOPC Marrakech Main Event Updates Live updates from Jan. 16 2024 WSOPC International Marrakech Ring-Awarding Event Results The 2024 WSOPC Marrakech was a roaring success. Frederik Thiemer, mentioned earlier, looks back fondly on this series, having captured not one but two gold WSOPC rings. First, Thiemer triumphed in the Opener for $50,887, then bagged the $17,227 and a WSOPC ring in the PKO High Roller. Switzerland's Dinesh Alt won the High Roller, navigating past 388 opponents to bank the equivalent of $122,773. As mentioned, Max Deveson was the festival's biggest winner, thanks to his $218,543 reward for becoming the Main Event champion. Deveson has since cashed in events held in South Africa, Cambodia, Madagascar, Ireland, and Spain. Perhaps you'd do the same if you secured a six-figure prize and a sought-after WSOPC ring? Event Entrants Prize Pool (USD) Champion Prize (USD) #1 Opener 689 $266,668 Frederik Thiemer $50,887 #2 NLHE 8-Handed 281 $95,573 Ricrdo Abreu $21,634 #3 Mini Main Event 714 $364,402 Dmitri Belikov $70,464 #4 NLHE High Roller 389 $672,590 Dinesh Alt $122,773 #5 NLHE 6-Max 239 $123,271 Anonyomous $25,942 #6 PLO 138 $71,163 Sonny Franco $17,803 #7 Ladies Event 20 $8,597 Sarah Ramirez $3,866 #8 Main Event 1,163 $1,513,847 Max Deveson $218,543 #9 NLHE Freezeout 173 $74,062 Ugo Palmero $16,717 #10 NLHE Monster Stack 461 $236,847 Luka Bojovic $45,600 #11 PKO High Roller 202 $103,765 Frederik Thiemer $17,227 #12 NLHE Turbo 180 $76,408 Endravuz Lahdo $14,568 #13 NLHE Super High Roller 146 $404,897 Anonymous $100,471 Share this article Police Searching for Three Masked Men Who Robbed Texas Poker Room on Christmas Eve Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link Three masked men are on the loose after allegedly robbing a Northern Texas poker room on Christmas Eve. The dangerous incident at Johnys Social Card Club in Wichita Falls, according to police, took place at 3:45 a.m. All suspects, none of whom have been identified by name, were masked up and difficult to identify. No one was physically harmed as the incident took place while the card room was closed. Police Release Brief Poker Room Robbery Details Exterior view of Johnny's Social Card Club via Google Maps. Surveillance video shows the three suspects arriving at the poker club in a gray Kia Telluride, a new-model SUV. They are said to have broken into the business where they stole cash from the ATM machine before exiting the establishment. All three alleged criminals are still on the loose two weeks later, and it appears investigators don't have any concrete leads. But police did release some surveillance photos that aren't clear and only show a minimal description of one suspect, who appears to be a medium-built male under six-feet tall. The Kia license plate also isn't visible in the photos released, and it's unclear if police have that information. Johnys Social Card Club is a five-table poker room in Northern Texas, about two hours west of Choctaw Resort and Casino in Durant, Oklahoma, one of the top card rooms in the area, and also a strong lobby against legalized gambling in neighboring Texas. This isn't the first robbery, or attempted robbery, that has occurred in a Texas poker room in recent years. Legends Poker Room in Houston, has seen multiple similar incidents, including one heroic situation where the club's security guard foiled an armed robbery in January 2022. Wichita Falls Crime Stoppers is asking the community for any tips anonymous or otherwise that may lead to the arrest of the wanted suspects. Those with any knowledge of the poker room robbery can drop a tip at wcfcrime.com or call (940) 322-9888. Armed Robbery Attempt at Texas Poker Room; Security Guard Shot Share this article The First WSOP Circuit Event of 2025 Kicks Off At The Choctaw Durant Jon Pill Contributor Copy link Today is the first day of the first World Series of Poker Circuit festival of 2025. The Choctaw Durant kicked off the year in style with Day 1A of WSOPC Event #1: $250 Seniors Event at 11 a.m. today. There will be a second Day 1 flight for the Seniors event tomorrow, with the first open event kicking off at 11 a.m. on January 8. The Seniors event is the first of 18 events at the festival, each of which will award its winner a gold WSOP Circuit ring. New events kick off almost daily until January 19, when WSOPC Event #18: $250 No-Limit Hold'em - The Finale will close out the festival. How To Win a WSOP Circuit Ring at the Choctaw Durant WSOPC Ring and the Cash. If you are near the Choctaw Durant (or will be in Oklahoma between now and the 19th), you can swing by to compete for a WSOPC ring. With 18 events on the schedule, there are events that will work for almost any player. Buyins have been kept low with the second biggest event being a $1,000 pot limit Omaha event. At the other end of the payscale, there are seven events with a $250 buyin. These include a Ladies Event. In between these extremes, there are a couple of Monster Stack events for $400 and $1,000, an Escalating Bounty event for $600, and the $500 Gargantuan which comes with a $300,000 guarantee. Then of course there is the tent pole tourney the $1,700 Main Event with its $1,000,000 guarantee. This is the event that everyone at the Choctaw Durant will be wanting to win. It has two Day 1 flights. One each at 11 a.m. on January 17 and 18. Last WSOP Circuit Choctaw Winner, Phillip Bertram Phillip Bertram won the last WSOPC Main Event at the Choctaw Durant. The previous edition of the WSOP Circuit Choctaw Durant went down in November of last year, with Phillip Bertram taking first place for $237,307. That edition of the event attracted 1,017 entries for a prize pool $1,540,755. While turnout in early January is unlikely to be that high, this year's edition still has the potential to be a draw a in a decent sized crowd. Bertram eventually beat Zachary Baron heads up to take the event down. Baron won $158,217 for his second-place finish. 2024 WSOP Circuit Choctaw Durant Main Event Final Table Results Place Player Hometown Prize 1 Phillip Bertram North Richland Hills, TX $237,307 2 Zachary Baron Dallas, TX $158,217 3 Michael Perrone Chicago, IL $110,000 4 Robert Peacock Las Vegas, NV $78,345 5 Vincent Pratt Sachse, TX $56,538 6 Lawrence Wayne Houston, TX $41,509 7 Vincent Rubianes Stockton, CA $31,013 8 Benjamin Anderson Killeen, TX $23,587 The Year Ahead The Thunder Valley poker room. This year, the WSOP has scheduled 13 Circuit festivals between now and May 12. Up next will be the WSOP Circuit Thunder Valley in California. This festival kicks off on January 16. Then the Circuit is headed all over the states from Horseshoe casinos in Mississippi, Maryland, and Indiana; to Harrah's casinos in North Carolina twice and Florida once; and a trio of other casinos in New York, Nevada, and Illinois. 2025 is set to be a big year for the WSOP Circuit and you can follow all the action here on PokerNews. You can see the full schedule for the WSOP Circuit Choctaw Durant below. WSOP Circuit Commerce Casino Schedule Date Time Event Buyin Guarantee Jan 6 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #1: Seniors Event $250 $75,000 Jan 7 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #2: Monster Stack $400 $100,000 Jan 8 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #3: No-Limit Hold'em $250 - Jan 9 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #4: Escalating Bounty $600 $50,000 Jan 10 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #5: No-Limit Hold'em - Gargantuan $500 $300,000 Jan 12 10:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #6: Ladies Event $250 - Jan 12 12:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #7: No-Limit Hold'em One Day $300 $25,000 Jan 12 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #8: No-Limit Hold'em $500 $25,000 Jan 13 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #9: No-Limit Hold'em $250 $25,000 Jan 14 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #10: No-Limit Hold'em 6-Handed $400 $30,000 Jan 14 2:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #11: Pot-Limit Omaha $1,000 - Jan 15 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #12: No-Limit Hold'em Double Stack $500 $100,000 Jan 15 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #13: No-Limit Hold'em $250 - Jan 16 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #14: Monster Stack $1,000 $100,000 Jan 16 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #15: No-Limit Hold'em $250 $100,000 Jan 17 11:00 a.m. WSOPC Event #16: Main Event $1,700 $1,000,000 Jan 17 5:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #17: No-Limit Hold'em - Twilight $300 $50,000 Jan 19 1:00 p.m. WSOPC Event #18: No-Limit Hold'em - The Finale $250 - *Photos courtesy WSOPC Share this article ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 7. Members of the commission investigating the Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane crash near Aktau will arrive in Astana in the coming days with the decrypted data from the "black boxes", Trend reports via the Kazakh Ministry of Transport. "The commission members are expected to arrive in Astana in the coming days with the decrypted data from the flight data recorders (black boxes). Upon arrival, the experts will immediately begin examining the decrypted data from the mentioned flight data recorders," the ministry's statement said. To note, the Brazilian Air Force's Air Accident Investigation and Information Center has completed the decoding of the black boxes from the crashed AZAL plane. 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. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Congress has certified President-elect Donald Trump as the 2024 election winner without challenge. It's 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. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The construction of three automobile bridges on the M3 highway (Alat-Astara-state border with Iran) is nearing completion, a source in the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads told Trend. According to the source, the bridges are being built in line with the project on sections of the highway passing through the Jalilabad and Masalli districts. Each of the bridges, constructed on a 145-kilometer section of the highway over the Darachay river and on a 157.3-kilometer section over the Tatyanchay river, is 30.2 meters long. The bridge on the 177.5-kilometer section over the Korchay river is 46.2 meters long. The bridges have two lanes, each with a width of 14.5 meters. Currently, finishing work is underway on each of the bridges. The construction work is being carried out by the mentioned agency in compliance with the Construction Norms and Regulations. The work is scheduled to be fully completed soon. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Reporter Lillia Callum-Penso covers food for The Post and Courier Greenville. She spent over a decade as a reporter with The Greenville News where she covered business and food and won awards for her feature, profile and food writing. Outside work, Lillia can usually be found running to keep up with her very energetic twins. Charleston, SC (29403) Today A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 72F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Some clouds. Low 52F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Maddy Quon covers Charleston County for The Post and Courier. Most recently from Tokyo, Japan, Maddy graduated from the University of Mississippi where she studied journalism. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The event dedicated to December 31 - World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Year was held in Copenhagen with the support of the State Committee for Work with the Azerbaijani Diaspora, organized by the Danish-Azerbaijani society Vatan, Trend reports via the State Committee for Work with Diaspora. The national anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was performed first. Then the memory of martyrs who gave their lives for the territorial integrity of the country and died as a result of the crash near Aktau of the Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane flying Baku-Grozny was honored. The event featured a video urging Azerbaijanis to stand in solidarity. Azerbaijani children living in Denmark were presented with holiday gifts. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 7. Kazakhstan will continue to strengthen international relations through the Aral Sea Rescue Fund to address water and environmental issues in the region, Trend reports. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yermukhambet Konuspaev, held a meeting with the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, Askhat Orazbay, where the parties discussed the results of Kazakhstan's first year of chairmanship, the work of the Executive Committee, and the current issues on the organization's agenda. The important role of the Fund in regulating water management, water-energy, and environmental aspects of regional development in the countries of the Aral Sea basin was emphasized. The parties agreed to continue making every effort to facilitate the swift completion of the organization's reform process, as well as to actively cooperate in solving the tasks and assignments set by the heads of state following the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea Summit held in Dushanbe in September 2023. The Chairman of the Executive Committee, in turn, informed about the progress of Kazakhstan's chairmanship priorities, the implementation of regional environmental projects and programs, as well as the expansion of international relations of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea. The International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea is an international organization whose main goal is to finance and implement joint efforts aimed at saving the Aral Sea. The International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea was established based on the decision of the Heads of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, made on January 4, 1993, in Tashkent. The founding countries take turns chairing the fund, and the heads of Central Asian countries elect the president of the fund for a term of 3 years. For those planning their next retreat or looking to escape the hustle of daily life, the Aerie Resort stands as a beacon of possibility. Experience the unparalleled zen and transformative power of Southern Utahs natural beauty and discover why the Aerie is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for retreat-goers. Aerie Resort Utah PR-Inside.com: 2025-01-06 19:20:30 Press Information Sand Hollow Vacation Reatals 1460 S windsor Pkwy Hurricane Utah 84737 Tony Larson Manager 4352722341 email https://sandhollow.rentals/ # 545 Words 1460 S windsor Pkwy Hurricane Utah 84737Manager4352722341 Southern Utah has long been a destination for those seeking rejuvenation, tranquility, and adventure. Recently, the Aerie Resort has taken center stage as one of the premier locations for retreats, offering an unparalleled blend of luxurious accommodations and natural beauty. Nestled amidst stunning red rock formations and expansive desert landscapes, the resort is rapidly becoming a go-to hub for retreat organizers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.The Aerie Resort: A Haven for ReconnectionLocated in one of the most scenic areas of Southern Utah, the Aerie Resort boasts world-class facilities designed to foster relaxation and connection. The resort features state-of-the-art amenities, outdoor pavilions that seamlessly integrate with the breathtaking surroundings. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a wellness getaway, or a spiritual workshop, the Aerie offers the perfect backdrop."The Aerie Resort is more than just a destinationit's an experience. Guests come here not only to unwind but to rediscover themselves amidst the serenity of nature," says resort manager Robert Moffitt.Outdoor Zen: Reconditioning the Mind and BodyOne of the highlights of hosting a retreat at the Aerie is the opportunity to engage with the outdoors in deeply meaningful ways. The resort offers curated activities that emphasize mindfulness and wellness, including guided hikes through nearby national parks, sunrise meditation sessions on cliffside terraces, and stargazing under the clear desert skies.Visitors are also drawn to the region's unique geological wonders, such as Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon, all of which are a short drive from the resort. The Aerie also offers guided tours to these iconic destinations, providing guests with the opportunity to explore these natural landmarks in a structured and enriching way. These parks provide the perfect setting for reflection and inspiration, making the Aerie a holistic destination for both body and soul.Tailored Experiences for Every RetreatThe Aerie Resorts team of event planners specializes in creating customized experiences to meet the unique needs of each group. From crafting personalized itineraries to coordinating gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, the staff ensures that every detail is meticulously planned.Recent guests have raved about the resort's commitment to sustainability and mindfulness. "Our retreat at the Aerie was transformative," shares Sarah Logan, a yoga instructor who recently hosted a wellness weekend. "The combination of luxury and nature was exactly what our group needed to reset and recharge.A Rising Star in Southern UtahAs word spreads about the Aerie Resorts exceptional offerings, it continues to attract visitors from across the globe. Its reputation as a top-tier retreat destination is cemented not only by its facilities and location but also by its dedication to providing an environment that fosters growth, healing, and connection.For those planning their next retreat or looking to escape the hustle of daily life, the Aerie Resort stands as a beacon of possibility. Experience the unparalleled zen and transformative power of Southern Utahs natural beauty, and discover why the Aerie is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for retreat-goers.Whether you're seeking a quiet personal getaway or organizing a large group event, the Aerie Resort offers everything needed to create unforgettable memories. Book your retreat today and embark on a journey of rediscovery and outdoor zen. The troops of 1 Brigade, Sector 2 Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, have killed a notorious terrorist, Sani Russu, in Zamfara. The troops also succeeded in various operations against terrorists in the state and recovered arms. This is contained in a statement in Gusau on Monday by the Coordinator, Joint Media Coordination Centre Operation Fansan Yamma, Abubakar Abdullahi. On Jan. 4, the troops conducted a fighting patrol to Bamamu village in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara and had an encounter with terrorists in the area. Consequently, a notorious kingpin, Sani Rusu, was neutralised in the process. The troops in the same day during an ambush operation which was based on credible intelligence regarding terrorist activities at Kwanar Jollof in Shinkafi local government area, neutralised some terrorists while others sustained fatal injuries. He further stated that the operation also led to the recovery of one AK47 rifle and one G3 rifle, alongside eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, three magazines and three motorcycles. 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 a separate operation, the Air Component Operation of Fansan Yamma conducted air strikes on terrorists converging between Fakai and Kware area of Shinkafii on Dec. 30. This airstrike was launched in response to intelligence indicating that terrorists, led by Bello Turji, had convened a meeting in the area. In a follow-up operation on Jan. 2, the Air Component further conducted air strikes at Maikaman Rini area of Sububu Forest in support of Operation Fansan Yamma ground troops operations against terrorists kingpin, Ibrahim Chumos camp in the area. The troops also conducted offensive operations against Bello Turjis camp in Chida area of Shinkafi on Jan. 5. An aerial surveillance revealed the terrorists suffered significant casualties during these operations with several terrorists injured and their hideouts destroyed. He noted that Operation Fansan Yamma remained committed to eliminating all terrorist threats across the Joint Task Force Theatre of Operations and assured the public of its determination to maintain peace and security in the region. The joint task force encourages continued cooperation from communities toward the achievement of its mandate. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Roughly 21,000 children have been recruited as soldiers by government forces and armed groups across Africa in the past five years. In 2020, around 337 million children lived within 50 km of active conflicts worldwide, with 118 million in Africa, where one in six risked being recruited. Africas youthful population (40 per cent are under 16 years) has seen rising violence, particularly in the Sahel, where Islamist insurgencies are expanding. A 2021 United Nations (UN) report highlighted West and Central Africa as the regions with the highest verified child soldier recruitment from 2016-20. Globally, in 2021 alone, 6,310 children were drawn into conflict zones, with Africa accounting for 40 per cent of the global child soldier population. From 2005-22, over 105,000 children were documented as recruited by armed forces and non-state actors in conflict zones worldwide. Minors typically join armed groups through abduction or coercion recruited as soldiers, lookouts, porters, spies, cooks or sex slaves. Girls are especially vulnerable, compelled to work as spies, cooks and fighters. Some are forced to marry combatants. In 2022, the UN Childrens Fund provided reintegration or protection support to nearly 12,500 former child soldiers and informed over nine million children about avoiding explosive remnants of war. It is estimated that over a billion US dollars were needed to meet the protection requirements of children in armed conflict by 2024, increasing to $1.37 billion by 2026. The economic impact of using child soldiers significantly hampers national development. Missing out on schooling results in lost human capital and reduced productivity, contributing to long-term economic stagnation, decreased workforce participation, higher poverty rates, and reduced foreign investment due to ongoing instability. Countries also incur increased social service costs related to the healthcare and legal needs of former child soldiers, along with the social instability arising from reintegration challenges. 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 Child recruitment by armed groups and government forces remains a major problem despite international commitments. The Convention on the Rights of the Child has been ratified by 196 countries, and 173 have ratified the conventions optional protocol that prohibits recruitment of children under 18 years into armed conflict. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken steps to combat the problem by focusing on prevention, protection and reintegration. The ECOWAS Child Policy (2019-30) aims to prevent recruitment by promoting community awareness, legal reform, and tackling social and economic factors. ECOWAS stands out for its regional approach, Child Protection Unit and comprehensive disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) programmes. Other regions also implement robust DDR initiatives but face hurdles such as logistical and security challenges, often relying on international support. ECOWAS also promotes the enforcement of policies and laws, ensuring that violators face significant consequences. It has established monitoring and reporting mechanisms to collect data on child recruitment and hold perpetrators accountable. However, recent coups and the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger from the regional bloc have weakened the Child Policys effectiveness. Over the past 20 years, there have been DDR programmes in over 30 countries globally with about two-thirds of these in Africa. These programmes have provided access to education, vocational training and psychological support, enabling former child soldiers to reintegrate into their communities, reducing stigma and re-recruitment risks. Effective DDR is complex requiring long-term funding and collaboration among governments, non-governmental organisations and international organisations. ECOWAS promotes community-based reintegration that engages local leaders, schools, and civil society to ensure that former youth fighters are accepted and supported. This involvement is crucial for fostering social cohesion and stability. But ongoing challenges include financial constraints, political instability and cultural norms, which can reinforce child recruitment. Specialised care for trauma and mental health is limited, with few programmes offering combined education, vocational training and mental health support. A lack of accurate data hampers the monitoring and evaluation of DDR programmes. Corruption also undermines child protection, diverting resources from essential services and eroding public trust, which deters communities from reporting abuses. In such environments, legal accountability is weak, allowing child exploitation to go unpunished. To safeguard children, child protection systems must be strengthened at all levels of government and society. National laws prohibiting the recruitment of child soldiers must be prioritised across Africa. High-risk countries must provide comprehensive services for former youth fighters, and help local communities to effectively reintegrate former child soldiers and prevent their re-enlistment. UN Security Council decisions on the issue should be reinvigorated to pressure member states to take greater proactive action. Thomas Lubanga Dyilos conviction by the International Criminal Court for using child soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo shows how the international legal system can help curb the problem. Naomi Haupt, anthropologist and researcher affiliated with the University of the Free State, South Africa (This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish). Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two persons died from the improvised explosive device (IED) detonated on Monday at the Tsangayar Sani Uthman Islamiyya School in Kuchibuyi Village, Byazhin area of the Federal Capital Territory. The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday. According to FEMDs Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, the explosion, which occurred at about 11 a.m., also injured two others. She said the victims were promptly evacuated to Kubwa General Hospital and Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for medical attention. The statement quoted the Acting Director-General of FEMD, Abdulrahman Mohammed, as urging residents to remain calm, noting that security agencies are actively investigating the matter. He emphasised the importance of vigilance and encouraged residents to report any suspicious persons or objects to security agencies. 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 also reminded the public to utilise the 112 toll-free emergency number during emergencies. Police investigation and arrest PREMIUM TIMES reported that three men from Katsina, visited the school owner, Adamu Ashimu, carrying the explosives. Two of them, however, died in the explosion, while the third sustained critical injuries and is currently hospitalised. READ ALSO: Death toll rises in Abuja school explosion The police have arrested Mr Ashimu and are interrogating him to determine his connection to the incident. Also, the police said the outcome of the interrogation will be made public once investigations are concluded. Meanwhile, no group has claimed responsibility for the explosion. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A 19-year-old ex-convict, Jibril Ndako, and two others have been arrested by the police in Niger State while planning to burgle a shop in the Minna metropolis. The two other suspects are 18-year-old Aliyu Abdullahi and 20-year-old Haruna Abubakar. A statement by the police spokesperson in the state, Wasiu Abiodun, said Mr Ndako had just served a jail term for theft of motorcycles. According to him, the ex-convict brought his accomplices from Agaie to Minna to join him in breaking into a provision store located at Barikin-Sale Minna when they were arrested. READ ALSO: Police confirm 18 injured in Port Harcourt gas explosion Mr Abiodun added that they were arrested in a hotel along Eastern Bye-Pass, Minna, where they lodged in a room and were found with dangerous weapons, three cutlasses and one industrial iron cutter. The statement added that the suspects have been transferred to the police headquarters in Minna for further investigation and prosecution. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Chairperson of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo has banned gas refilling businesses in residential areas within the area. Mr Ihunwo announced the ban on X on Monday. Eighteen people were severely injured in a gas explosion which occurred on Sunday evening at a gas refiling shop in the Oroazi community in Port Harcourt, causing significant damage to nearby buildings. The police in the state said the explosion was caused by a welder who was 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, Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson in the state, had said, PREMIUM TIMES reported. No fewer than 18 persons, including the technician, sustained injuries, but fortunately, no lives were lost, she added. The police spokesperson said that injured persons were receiving treatment at a hospital in the state. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Bans on gas refilling in residential areas Mr Ihunwo expressed sadness over the incident during his visit to the explosion scene and the hospital where the injured persons were treated. I couldnt help but feel profound sorrow over the devastating incident. The sight of the victims and the aftermath of the explosion was truly heart-wrenching, the statement published on his official X handle reads. After meeting with some of the victims and witnessing their struggles, I promptly allocated three million naira to Sonabel Hospital to ensure that the affected individuals receive the best possible medical attention and care. To prevent the recurrence of the incident, Mr Ihunwo announced an immediate ban on gas refilling businesses within residential areas in the local government area. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print On Tuesday, John Mahama, dressed in an agbada with a gobi cap, was sworn in for a four-year term as president of Ghana. The choice of attire for the event surprised many observers. His agbada style, traditionally native to Nigeria, was paired with a gobi cap crafted from Ghanas Kente fabric, an intriguing fusion. While the cap showcased Ghanaian material, its design is widely recognised as a Yoruba fashion and culture hallmark. Other aspects of the attire have sparked intense debate on social media, particularly on X, where symbols on the outfit are being scrutinised. Although agbada is used in several countries across the Sahel, including northern Ghana, Mr Mahamas style is similar to those made and worn in Nigeria. During the event, a host on a popular Ghanaian TV station speculated that the choice of agbada might be connected to the presence of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu as the special guest of honour. I dont know if the choice of agbada is because we are having a special guest from Nigeria. We also know that Nigeria was the first country he (Mahama) visited just after winning the 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 The agbada comes from the Sahel, especially the Yoruba people of Nigeria. We know its importance to Ghana and Nigerias relevance in the subregion. It does look like Nigeria is symbolically represented there, she said. Mahamas connection to Nigeria For those familiar with Mr Mahamas history, the choice of attire was unsurprising, given his ties to Nigeria. In the 1980s, Mr Mahama lived in Offa, a Yoruba community in the southern part of Kwara State, Nigeria. During this period, he stayed with his stepmother for about 18 months. Emmanuel Mahama, Mr Mahamas father and a rice merchant, had married Rabiat Balogun, whom he met during one of his visits to Lagos, Nigeria. Amid political instability in Ghana, including coups and attempted coups, the young Mahama lived with his stepmother in Offa. Let me clarify a few things about my Nigerian background. My stepmother is Nigerian, and she raised me. She comes from Offa in Kwara State, he once stated in a speech. When there was a coup in Ghana, my father lived in exile in Nigeria, and I had to live with my stepmother for many years in Offa. I know Offa quite well. I consider it my hometown in Nigeria, and the Oloffa of Offa graciously granted me a chieftaincy title. For those who dont know, I am the Aare Atolase of Offa Kingdom, he added. In 2015, Mr Mahama visited Offa as a sitting president and was officially conferred with the title. During the same period, he attended the 40th anniversary and 31st convocation of the University of Ilorin, where he delivered a lecture. Tinubu/Mahama Connection Shortly after Mr Mahama was officially declared the 7 December presidential election winner, he visited Mr Tinubu in Abuja. It was his first trip outside Ghana. The relationship between the two leaders dates back to when Mr Mahama was Ghanas Vice President, and Mr Tinubu was an opposition leader in Nigeria. At Mr Tinubus 60th birthday colloquium in 2012, Mr Mahama, then newly sworn in as President of Ghana, delivered a speech describing Mr Tinubu as the kind of leader Africa needs. I had the opportunity to receive him in Ghana last year when he came to collect his award. He gave a speech that earned him a standing ovation from the crowd. What was clear to me from that speech is that he is the kind of leader this continent is crying for, Mr Mahama said at the event. Interestingly, during his inaugural address, Mr Mahama mistakenly referred to Mr Tinubu as the President of the Federal Republic of Ghana. This gaffe has been trending on social media in both countries. In his remarks, Mr Tinubu reassured Mr Mahama of Nigerias unwavering support. President John Mahama and I share a deep friendship. My dear brother, I am here to work with you. You know you can count on Nigerias support and goodwill whenever needed. We are your brothers and sisters. The bond is strong and cannot be broken, he said. Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan were among the dignitaries that graced the occasion. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has ordered a dawn-to-dusk curfew in Owo, a town in Ondo State, following a violent clash that resulted in the death of four persons. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the curfew is until further notice. There was confusion early on Monday after reports filtered in that a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress in Owo Local Government, Fisayo Oladipo, and four others were shot dead by armed men suspected to be cultists. The ugly event was said to have occurred at around 2:00 a.m. on Monday when the gunmen stormed Mr Oladipos house in Owo and killed him. Mr Oladipo, popularly called Fissey Ehin Ogbe, was a former youth leader of the APC and a prominent party member in the Owo Local Government. It was also gathered that four other persons, including a mother and her child, were caught in the crossfire between two rival cults. The police spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, confirmed the incident but could not ascertain the number of casualties. We cant confirm if an APC chieftain is affected, but four people have been confirmed dead. Normalcy has returned through the intervention of the police. Efforts are on to arrest perpetrators of the act, she said. Meanwhile, a statement signed by Mr Adeniyan said all residents are required to remain indoors during the curfew. Only essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, will be exempted from the curfew, he said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The governor has also asked security agencies in the state to enforce the curfew, ensure the safety of lives and properties, arrest perpetrators of the violence, and restore peace to the community. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police in Anambra State have arrested over 300 crime suspects and rescued kidnap victims in separate operations in the state. The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Obono, disclosed this during a press briefing at the State Police Headquarters in Awka on Monday. Mr Obono said the 300 suspects were arrested for various crimes in the state and that about 30 of them had been convicted by various courts of law. According to the police, some of the crimes included armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, child trafficking, public disturbances, attacks on civilians, security personnel, and government infrastructures. Mr Obono said some suspects were currently facing trials for various crimes in the state. He said among the arrested suspects was a notorious and wanted kidnapper, named Pablo, who had been terrorising Ihiala in Anambra State and other areas in Enugu and Delta States. The police commissioner said apart from the arrested suspects, other crime suspects were shot dead during deadly shootouts with security operatives. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He said the masterminds of the attack on police operatives on the Rapid Response Squad in Uruagu Nnewi were among those killed during shootouts with security operatives. Rescue of kidnap victims, recovery of items Mr Obono said 14 kidnap victims were rescued by security operatives in separate operations last year. He said the police recovered several arms and ammunition from some criminals. The police chief said the arms and ammunition recovered included over 43 unexploded improvised devices (IEDs), 2937 ammunition of various types, AK-47 rifles, pump action guns, and locally made pistols. Mr Obono said the police recovered 40 stolen cars, different brands of motorcycles and other items. He said the police destroyed several criminal camps, including the camp in Nimo, a community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State where 19 unexploded IEDs were recovered. Our focus this year is to consolidate on the gains in crime prevention and restoration of law and order towards improving the safety and security of lives in Anambra State, Mr Obono stated, assuring of the police commitment to stamp out crime in the state. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police in Anambra State, South-east Nigeria, say they have arrested two persons for allegedly killing and burying a sibling in a shallow grave in their compound in the state. The incident happened in Oko, a community in Orumba North Local Government Area of the state. The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnaghe Obono, disclosed this during a press briefing at the police headquarters in Awka on Monday. The police spokesperson in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, forwarded a text of the press briefing to PREMIUM TIMES. How it happened Mr Obono said the deceased victim, Chibuzor Okeke, was accused of burglary and stealing and his brother, Chidiebere Okeke and cousin, Emebo Ogochukwu, grabbed him and beat him to a stupor. As a result, Chibuzor became unconscious and was rushed to the hospital where the doctor confirmed him dead. The two suspects, in order to cover up for the incident, dug a shallow grave in their compound and buried Chibuzor, he said. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later Mr Obono did not specifically confirm if the accusation of burglary and stealing was made by the two suspects. He did not also reveal when the incident happened. Rescue of stolen children Mr Obono said, in another development, the police in the state rescued four children allegedly stolen from their parents in Bauchi State, North-central Nigeria and sold to another person in Anambra State. The suspects confessed to the crime and narrated the role that each of them played. One of the children has been identified and efforts are already emplaced to unite the child with his parents, he said. The police chief appealed to Nigerians to assist in identification and reuniting of the children with their parents. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Photo: Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 7. Since January 1, 2025, Aydzharov Aitmukhamed has taken on the role of Executive Director at the Trade Policy Development Center of QazTrade company, Trend reports. Previously, Aydzharov headed the corporate fund QazExportPromotion and was a member of the board of directors of QazTrade. He replaced Zhenis Oserbay, who had been leading the Trade Policy Development Center since November 13, 2023. To note, Aitmukhamed Aydzharov graduated from the Kazakh State Academy of Management and the International Academy of Business. In his career, he held executive positions in various quasi-government sector companies. The police have arrested about 50 persons suspected to be involved in the theft of manhole covers in Abuja. The arrests followed a coordinated raid on the Kabusa Pantaker Market on Sunday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command said on its X handle. It listed those arrested as Bashir Usman, Shaibu Ibrahim, Sani Isah, Ibrahim Hassan, Mustapha Hassan, Awal Nawan, Umar Aliyu, Auta Umar, Simon Clement, Datti Ibrahim, Mohammed Salim, Ibrahim Ibrahim, Ifeanyi-Chukwu Emmanuel, Abba Ismail, Najib Abdul, Muhammed Lawal, Rabiu Ibrahim, Adamu Suleiman, Abdulkarim Abdullahi and Haruna Nasiru. Other are Abdul Naija, Josua Steven, Livinus Steven, Ismail Abdullahi, Munir Sada, Ibrahim Yahaya, Yahaya Musa, Dahiru Nasiru, Abdullahi Muhammed, Monday Barnabas, Hamisu Iman, Promise Abanonum, Ehieze Emeka, Ehieze Justice, Mohammed Inusa, Tijanni Suleiman, and Promise James. Haruna Auwalu, Ayuba Danjuma, Suleiman Abu, Nafiu Ahmmed, Kamalu Junaidu, Zaradeen Yakubu, Abdulhadi Adam, Mohammed Ibrahim, Chukwu Emmanuel, Douglas Yahaya, Mohammed Lawal, Auwal Musa and Abubakar Kabiru were also picked up. The statement said, investigations have revealed that these individuals operate as part of a larger network, selling stolen manhole covers to scrap dealers. This criminal activity endangers the lives of the general public by creating hazards on roads and walkways while undermining the integrity of public infrastructure. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The police said the operation also led to the recovery of three vehicles, vandalised solar street lights, galvanised rods used in the construction of flyovers, and various tools allegedly employed in the destruction of public infrastructure. it further stated that the raid extended to several scrap metal hubs in Kabusa, Garki, Mabushi, and Wuse. Condemnation The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in a statement on Monday by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, described the theft of the manhole covers as a significant threat to public safety and a strain on government resources. It is unacceptable that amenities provided for the use of Nigerians are being stolen and sold, endangering lives and wasting funds meant for development, the statement said. He said the development could cause many accidents for unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians. The minister has lamented the financial burden caused by such thefts, noting that funds meant for public development are being diverted to replace stolen infrastructure. He commended the man who recorded the viral video, calling his actions a demonstration of patriotism. The FCT Minister thanked Nigerians, especially the man who took his time to record the video that went viral, describing his effort as a demonstration of patriotism that the country desired, the statement said. In a statement earliet on Sunday,, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, condemned the theft, vowing to take decisive action on the matter. Mr Dauda explained that the stolen covers were specifically designed to withstand heavy vehicular traffic and are crucial for the proper functioning of the citys drainage system. He said, It is unfortunate that we continue to face this challenge. Despite our efforts to replace these covers, they are repeatedly stolen. This is primarily a security issue, and the FCTA administration will take decisive action to curb vandalism within the city. Previous arrests In December, the FCT Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) arrested six suspects during a year-end operation targeting infrastructure vandals. FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu commended his team for its vigilance and called for public cooperation. We remain resolute in protecting critical infrastructure and bringing offenders to justice. However, we need residents to provide actionable information to aid our efforts, Mr Odumosu said. In August 2023, the NSCDC also apprehended 20 individuals for allegedly stealing manhole covers and damaging public property. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians amid reports of increased cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China and other regions. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Director General of NCDC, Jide Idris, said the agency is taking proactive measures to ensure the public is informed and prepared for any potential impact of HMPV. Mr Idris said the NCDC is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoH) to monitor the situation closely. Our commitment to safeguarding the health of all Nigerians remains unwavering, he said. We are taking proactive measures to ensure that the public is informed and prepared for any potential impact of HMPV. Although no cases of HMPV have been reported in Nigeria, the Director General said the agency has ramped up surveillance efforts nationwide. He noted that as of 6 January, Nigerias National Influenza Sentinel Surveillance (NISS) system has not reported any unusual increase in respiratory infections, including those caused by HMPV. 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, however, said the agency is taking precautionary steps to enhance the countrys preparedness and response capacity. He also clarified that rumors regarding the World Health Organisation (WHO) declaring HMPV a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) are false. About HMPV HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV, and supportive care remains the primary approach to recovery. Recent reports indicate a significant rise in HMPV cases in China, as well as increased respiratory infections linked to HMPV in countries including the United Kingdom (UK), France, and Germany. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted a notable rise in hospital admissions due to HMPV-related complications, especially among children under five and older adults in care homes. In light of this, the NCDC has advised the public to practice good hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness. It also encouraged vulnerable groups to seek prompt medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms. The infectious disease agency urged the public to adhere to the preventive measures outlined and to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms consistent with HMPV infection. NCDCs Preparedness The NCDC said it has implemented several preparedness measures in response to the evolving situation regarding the virus. It said a dynamic risk assessment conducted in collaboration with international health partners classified the risk of HMPV for Nigeria as moderate, noting that this assessment will guide the NCDCs response strategies to mitigate potential impacts. It noted that it has put six measures in place to help in its preparedness including working with port health authorities to ensure robust preparedness at all international points of entry. This includes conducting a comprehensive situation analysis and developing an entry implementation protocol for HMPV. Quarantine facilities are being identified, and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials are being deployed to ensure adherence to hygiene protocols. It also said the NISS sites will now test for HMPV, alongside existing COVID-19 testing. The agency also noted that it is collaborating with state governments to train healthcare workers, ensuring that adequate case management teams are in place. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian Army says its troops have shot dead two suspects accused of killing four soldiers on protection duty in Rivers State, Nigerias South-south. Danjuma Danjuma, the Nigerian Army 6 Division spokesperson in Port Harcourt, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday. He revealed that the unidentified gang members were shot dead by troops of the 5 Battalion during a raid on their hideout in Kalaogbokolo, Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers. The gang killed four soldiers and abducted two Korean expatriates working for Daewoo Nigeria Limited on 12 December 2023. Two of the gang members were apprehended during the operation but were neutralised after attempting to escape into the bush following a lengthy chase by the soldiers, he stated. Mr Danjuma, a lieutenant colonel, explained that the suspects were captured following credible intelligence that revealed their return to the community from their hideouts. He said that troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a Fabrique National rifle, and a pump action shotgun. 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 Other items seized included two locally made rifles, three AK-47 magazines, three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and 13 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition. The Nigerian Army reiterates that, regardless of how long it takes, criminals involved in such heinous acts will face severe consequences for their actions. We assure citizens of the divisions commitment to safeguarding lives and property, and we encourage them to continue providing actionable intelligence on the activities of criminal gangs, he added. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Danladi Isa, has disbanded the commands Anti-Cultism Unit over alleged unprofessional conduct and incivility towards members of the public. A statement from the spokesperson of the police in Abia, ASP Maureen Chinaka, on Tuesday, said that the action aligned with the vision of the Inspector General of Police. Ms Chinaka, an assistant superintendent of police, quoted Mr Isa as saying that the action was to establish a professionally competent, service-driven, rule-of-law-compliant, and people-friendly police force. She also stated that a police operative, Ebuka Okonkwo (F/No: 527324), attached to Area Command, Aba, but on special duty at Isuochi, was demoted from the rank of corporal to constable. READ ALSO: Police arrest 50 suspects for stealing manhole covers in Abuja The spokesperson stated that the decision followed the conclusion of an administrative investigation, which found him guilty of discreditable, unprofessional conduct and incivility to members of the public. The Commissioner of Police emphasised the Commands zero-tolerance policy for any form of unprofessional conduct among officers that could tarnish the good image of the force. Members of the public are also encouraged to report any unprofessional conduct by officers to the Complaint Response Unit Abia Command, the statement read in part. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President John Mahama of Ghana has appointed Augustus Tannoh as the presidential adviser on the 24-hour economy and the rapid growth of exports. Mr Tannoh, a 68-year-old former presidential candidate, will oversee the implementation of the 24-hour economya major campaign promise made by the new president. President Mahama was inaugurated on Tuesday at a ceremony attended by President Bola Tinubu and former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. In a statement issued on Monday by Felix Kwakye, Mr Mahama announced the appointment of Mr Tannoh along with six other officials. During his campaign, the president pledged to introduce deliberate policy interventions to encourage and support businesses and companies to operate 24/7, preferably in a three-shift system of eight hours each. He emphasised the creation of an enabling environment to boost productivity, competitiveness, and well-paying jobs. Other key appointments include Julius Debrah as chief of staff, a role he also held during Mr Mahamas first tenure. 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 Valerie Sawyerr has been named Senior Presidential Adviser on Governmental Affairs, while Prosper Bani will serve as Director of the Temporary Security Taskforce. Callistus Mahama has been appointed Executive Secretary to the President, and Marietta Brew will act as Legal Counsel. The surprise appointment is that of Felix Ofosu as the acting spokesperson. Mr Ofosu, a member of Parliament, has drawn attention as analysts question how effectively one can combine the responsibilities of a lawmaker and governments spokesperson Ghanas law allows appointments of MPs into executive positions. Mr Mahama campaigned on fixing the economy and restoring economic stability in Ghana. As he is serving a single term, there is heightened expectation for him to deliver results promptly. The newly sworn-in president previously served as president from 2012 to 2016. After losing his re-election bid in 2016, he made an unsuccessful attempt to return to office in 2020. Mr Mahama emerged victorious in the 7 December presidential election by defeating the incumbent Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Meta, Facebooks parent company, on Tuesday announced a series of changes to its content moderation practices that would effectively end a fact-checking programme instituted to curtail the spread of misinformation across its social media platforms. PREMIUM TIMES reports that the changes will affect Facebook and Instagram, two of the largest social media platforms in the world, each boasting billions of users, as well as Threads. Instead of using news organisations and other third-party groups for fact-checking on its social networking sites, Meta will now rely on users to add notes to posts that may contain false or misleading information. The New York Times reported that the reversal of the years-old policy is a stark sign of how the company is repositioning itself for Donald Trumps presidency in the weeks before it begins. Metas chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, said in a video that the new protocol, which will begin in the United States in the coming months, is similar to the one used by X, called Community Notes. Were going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms, Mr Zuckerberg said. The companys current fact-checking system, he added, had reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship. 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 More specifically, heres what were going to do. First, were going to get rid of fact-checkers and replace them with community notes similar to X, starting in the US. Mr Zuckerberg pointed to the election as a major influence on the companys decision and criticised governments and legacy media for allegedly pushing to censor more and more. He also said the systems the company had created to moderate its platforms were making too many mistakes, adding that the company would continue to aggressively moderate content related to drugs, terrorism and child exploitation. We built a lot of complex systems to moderate content, but the problem with complex systems is they make mistakes, Mr Zuckerberg said. Even if they accidentally censor just 1 per cent of posts, thats millions of people, and weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship. Beyond the end of the fact-checking programme, Mr Zuckerberg said the company will eliminate some content policies around hot-button issues including immigration and gender, and refocus the companys automated moderation systems on what he called high severity violations and rely on users to report other violations. Mr Zuckerberg then conceded that there would be more bad stuff on the platform as a result of the decision. The reality is that this is a trade-off, he said. It means that were going to catch less bad stuff, but well also reduce the number of innocent peoples posts and accounts that we accidentally take down. Multiple studies have shown that interventions like Facebooks fact-checks were effective at reducing belief in falsehoods and reducing how often such content is shared. A study published last year in the journal Nature Human Behaviour showed that warning labels, like those used by Facebook to caution users about false information, reduced belief in falsehoods by 28 per cent and reduced how often the content was shared by 25 per cent. Meta introduced its fact-checking programme in 2016 as part of an effort to curb misinformation. The initiative was launched in response to criticism over Facebooks role in spreading false claims during the 2016 U.S. presidential election. A 2023 statement from Meta said the fact-checking programme had expanded to include nearly 100 organisations working in more than 60 languages globally. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police said three of the 18 victims of the Rivers State gas explosion have died. Grace Iringe-Koko, the police spokesperson in Rivers, disclosed this to PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday. The 18 victims, who suffered varying degrees of burns from the explosion, were receiving treatment at a hospital in the state. The commissioner of police and his management team visited the victims in the hospital and sympathised with the family members who lost their loved ones, Mrs Iringe-Koko said. The incident Eighteen people were severely injured in a gas explosion that occurred on Sunday evening at a gas refilling shop in the Oroazi community in Port Harcourt, causing significant damage to nearby buildings. The police in the state said 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, Mrs Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, had said, PREMIUM TIMES reported. 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 Meanwhile, the Chairperson of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo has banned gas refilling businesses in residential areas within the area. Mr Ihunwo announced the ban on X on Monday. Mr Ihunwo announced the ban shortly after visiting the scene of the explosion and the victims at a hospital. He promised to cover the medical bills of the victims. READ ALSO: Council chairperson bans gas refilling in residential areas after gas explosion I couldnt help but feel profound sorrow over the devastating incident. The sight of the victims and the aftermath of the explosion was truly heart-wrenching, the statement published on his official X handle reads. After meeting with some of the victims and witnessing their struggles, I promptly allocated three million naira to Sonabel Hospital to ensure that the affected individuals receive the best possible medical attention and care, Mr Ihunwo said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print I am only consoled by the understanding that although Professor Yaqubs transition might have done unprintable damage to our emotional health because of the various shared ideas, values and virtues, his passing on has foregrounded the irreplaceable importance of committing oneself to a meaningful philosophy. It is on this basis that I highlight the exceptional contributions that this individual made to the human world before his transition. 8 December, 2024: Professor Nuhu Yaqub was with us in Abuja, in the company of great minds Jibrin Ibrahim, Yakubu Ochefu, Chris Ogbogbo, Aisha Maikudi, Chido Onumah, Tunji Olaopa, Paul and Paula Edeh, Adagio, Okello Oculi, John Odah, and many more. We did a mini-seminar on Jibrin Ibrahim. I invited Nuhu Yaqub to speak, and he gave a great speech, starting with his introduction to Marxism. Days after, we spoke twice on the phone. An active and healthy man was gone within three days of sickness, leaving us and the world on Saturday, 4 January. I was hit by his departure with an emotional anguish that is taking a longer time to lift. I have known him for decades. As the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, he invited me twice to give two Keynote Addresses. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Sokoto State University, he and Professor Malami Buba, his deputy, invited me to give the Universitys first Distinguished Lecture. We exchanged family visits in Austin and Abuja. A candid man, he did not require efforts for him to stay in mind on all aspects of national issues. The phenomenon of death remains one mystery that humans, and maybe all living creatures, may not understand for its strange nature. At the superficial level, death signifies the finitude to everything living, and it is in this category of interpretation that we humans lurk ourselves, not because we are sometimes not inclined to see beyond the anguish that is brought when we lose people who are dear to us, but because the human mind is not conditioned to process the shock, the urgency, and the forever delinking which occurs when we lose individuals or cherished pets. Death is a leveller, for it takes the lives of everything without concern about the irreparable damage that it does to the people behind it. Losing a giant intellectual and humanitarian energy such as Professor Yaqub has dug yet another deep hole in our national heart and left a hollow space that may be difficult to fill. We feel this way because we consider his demise not as a transition into another phase of human existence, which it originally signifies, but as finitude to the material importance for which the man is known to his immediate family, academic family and national brotherhood. To say that I am overwhelmed is to mildly describe my emotional state at the breaking of the news that the selfless individual had passed on. It is such a case for me because, in academic brotherhood, it is not only difficult to come across people genuinely committed to a lifelong philosophy, but it is almost impossible to come across individuals who have the mental energy or political goodwill to effect changes when they could walk their talk. Unlike many other academics, Yaqub was very practical with his solutions, especially because he understood that the possibility of achieving greatness lies especially in the ability to be deliberate and disciplined. Perhaps this would explain why he irrevocably supported the idea of clinical scholarship, research, and intellectual engagements that would lead to the enthronement of an academic culture that is both vibrant and resilient. But then I am only consoled by the understanding that although Professor Yaqubs transition might have done unprintable damage to our emotional health because of the various shared ideas, values and virtues, his passing on has foregrounded the irreplaceable importance of committing oneself to a meaningful philosophy. It is on this basis that I highlight the exceptional contributions that this individual made to the human world before his transition. As a political scientist, it has been established that Nuhu Yaqub devoted his intellectual ambition towards the actualisation of better national conditions by facilitating a radical evolution of Nigerias political system in ways that address its specific and unique peculiarities. Aware of its diversity, the outstanding Professor had campaigned for inclusive leadership to be embraced by the political players in the country in the spirit of creating a haven for citizens and forging a country that is capable of answering to the wishes and aspirations of everyone. 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 To become a national hero in my book, what matters is to demonstrate some consistency in ones philosophical conviction, as long as it does not endanger the human family. I can say confidently that this man was not only consistent about his conviction but also invested in it in every sense. I remember clearly how he staunchly argued and equally supported courses of action that would see to the rapid departure from the colonially imposed political culture, in exchange for one that would fix the country and free the people from the shackles of ideological suppression. Unlike many other academics, Yaqub was very practical with his solutions, especially because he understood that the possibility of achieving greatness lies especially in the ability to be deliberate and disciplined. Perhaps this would explain why he irrevocably supported the idea of clinical scholarship, research, and intellectual engagements that would lead to the enthronement of an academic culture that is both vibrant and resilient. He has never refused to educate anyone who cares to listen that research engagement is at the centre of Nigerias and Africas political transformation, revealing why it is dangerous to compromise on such a commitment. Would it not be surprising that such a man was foresighted in his examination of our basic sociological and sociopolitical fate, so much that he campaigned that education was a necessity for everyone, if the country would evolve to become a force in the global society? He was motivated to say this because he understood the underlying potential that is lurking in the human and natural resources that the country is blessed with. To become an important force in the world, people have always been required to evaluate events from an impartial angle, and that can only be possible on the occasion that people are given a solid education. It is understandable because many issues that are causing problems in the country are founded on the beliefs that are imposed by individuals who constantly take away the right to education of their citizens. Away from the strictly professional life that this successful man lived, it would be strange that people of his educational and administrative stature still maintained a life of humility and embrace, as he did not consider himself as superior to others on account of his giant strides in life. Evidence of his selflessness and humility abounds, as people with whom he shared one thing or the other have attested to how he opened his space to anyone who wanted to experience it. You would begin to understand and not underestimate his position when you appreciate the place of education in the formulation of policies that are needed for the transformation of a country. I have held numerous dialogues with him, and at every opportunity, no matter how little, he would strike up conversations about national issues that are pivotal to the countrys civilisational advancement. In any case, what dominates such conversations is that education is needed in policy formulation because it is through policies that humans transfer their refined ideas to organised guidelines to be used in guiding the decisions of the government to achieve great outcomes. If people are uneducated, there is a possibility that they will be micromanaged by others who have that advantage. This is the fear of the righteous man who committed to such a just course. He has maintained, over time, that when people are intellectually refined enough to contribute to the debate of welfare improvement, especially as it relates to them, they would, therefore, be encouraged to participate in the affairs of the country, if they are given the fair atmosphere where they can thrive without any external threat. Away from the strictly professional life that this successful man lived, it would be strange that people of his educational and administrative stature still maintained a life of humility and embrace, as he did not consider himself as superior to others on account of his giant strides in life. Evidence of his selflessness and humility abounds, as people with whom he shared one thing or the other have attested to how he opened his space to anyone who wanted to experience it. For a man who was erstwhile Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, the information about how to manage opposing opinions to drive the monumental changes that are recorded in the academic institution today cannot cease to amaze people. More than anything, they are indicators that he was professionally inclined and discharged his responsibility with a great sense of commitment and demeanour. It cannot be overemphasised how his simple nature infected many of the people who have come across the man in different spheres of existence. I cannot stress enough how his sudden demise has brought some hard reality that is difficult to swallow. How else can we describe the individual as great, especially in the course of academic liberation, if not through a series of great initiatives he made to improve the conditions of things? It was under him as a Vice Chancellor that the University moved out of its temporary site to the permanent one, which required a great deal of sacrifice from members of staff. Not minding the personal and professional costs that this demanded, Professor Yaqub became an important figure in shaping the university. It is no coincidence that his death has sparked a national reflection, as people who have either benefited from the largesse of his professional responsibilities or those who had personal relationships with him continue to reveal how his demise has come with a national melancholy. It is understandable for them to feel this way. I have become so engrossed in his scholarly interests and contributions that his sudden departure to the great beyond has dug a hole in my heart. Allahummaghfir lahu warhamhu wa adkhilhu fee jannatika. Translation: O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, and admit him into Your Paradise. Toyin Falola, a professor of History, University Distinguished Teaching Professor, and Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at The University of Texas at Austin, is the Bobapitan of Ibadanland. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print There is an urgent need for strategic calibration in the partnership, especially on the part of Africa. This move could contribute to achieving the mutual progress proposed by China. For instance, there is hardly a coherent documented approach to how Africa and African countries will engage China. This gap continues to weaken the voice and bargaining power of the continent. The proposal that Africa should begin to negotiate with China as a bloc with a collective vision and strategic approach should be considered by countries. In addition, investment in value chains should be sought. The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, will be visiting African countries from the 5th to the 11th of January, according to official sources from the Chinese government. During his tour, he will visit four African countries, including Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria. The trip is believed to further support President Xi Jinpings promise of elevated strategic relationships between China and all African countries. This is to deepen cooperation, advance the so-called win-win partnership and implement some of the pledges that were made during the Forum on ChinaAfrica Cooperation (FOCAC) last year. Last September, Nigerias President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with the Chinese President in Beijing during a state visit. Both leaders are committed to deepening mutual trust and they firmly support each other in promoting integrated development in infrastructure, energy, and minerals. Chinese Economic Ties With Africa On a Steady Growth The volume of trade between China and Africa continues to rise. In 2023, it reportedly reached $282.1 billion, making it Africas largest trading partner a position China has maintained for fifteen consecutive years. China is Africas largest creditor, providing new financing sources to African countries. Chinese lenders account for 12 per cent of the continents private and public external debt. As of 2022, African countries owed China around $80 billion, with Angola, Kenya, Zambia and Nigeria accounting for 50 per cent of this. Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has increased significantly over the last two decades. In 2022, the FDI flow from China to Africa rose to $5 billion, representing 4.4 per cent of the regions total FDI. In 2024, the Chinese President pledged additional funding of $51 billion, including $10 billion in development assistance to support African projects in infrastructure, agriculture, industry, trade and investment. Critics insist that Chinas renewed push is a debt-trap diplomacy designed to shove African countries into debt to gain leverage over them. Such speculations call for improved scrutiny of proposals coming from China. Tour To Africa Targeting Countries Rich in Natural Resources The destination of the Chinese Foreign Minister during the tour to Africa will be countries that are rich in natural resources, which is not surprising. It is not a revelation that the Chinese appetite for natural resources is the most important factor shaping the push to consolidate its relationship with African countries. Namibia is rich in crude oil and has become the new oil exploration hotspot. With several significant oil discoveries made in the country, projected as an estimated 11 billion barrels of offshore oil resources, Namibia may be on its way to becoming Africas fifth largest producer of crude oil. It also has significant deposits of lithium, with a Chinese company, Xinfeng, said to be investing in this. 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 Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has the worlds largest deposit of cobalt (about 68 per cent) one of the critical metals used in producing electric vehicles, placing that country in a critical position for the energy transition. Lithium reserves in DRC are attracting interest, making it likely to become a top global supplier. Chads natural resource endowment includes petroleum, gold, silver and uranium, while Nigeria remains the largest producer of crude oil in Africa. Approximately 8 per cent of Africas mining output goes to China. For instance, in 2020, China imported a third of Africas minerals and metals worth about $16.6 billion. China is a dominant player in DRCs mining sector, investing in 15 out of 17 cobalt mining operations in that country. Resource-linked Financing Should Not Lead To Debt-trap Diplomacy China continues to promise to jointly promote modernisation in Africa through a just and equitable partnership that provides a win-win cooperation and common development with mutual respect and non-interference. Beijings carefully crafted diplomatic slogan of a benevolent China and seeking to veil the rush to access Africas natural resources should be interrogated. In truth, China has helped provide many African countries access to capital through a resource-linked financing model that provides long-term project financing in exchange for or collateralised by future income streams from commodities. The approach is not likely to change soon as it fits into Chinas economic and geo-political ambition of becoming a major player in a multipolar world. Critics insist that Chinas renewed push is a debt-trap diplomacy designed to shove African countries into debt to gain leverage over them. Such speculations call for improved scrutiny of proposals coming from China. The visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister and the renewed push for alliance from China offers another opportunity for African nations to reposition for a more impactful engagement and value-added partnership. Financing infrastructure remains a huge challenge on the African continent. The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates that between $130 billion and $170 billion is needed each year and there is a gap of between $68 billion and $108 billion. As the largest supplier of infrastructural finance, Chinas infrastructural investment is beneficial in bridging the infrastructural gap on the continent. Africa Should Speak As a Block and Seek Investment in Value Chains There is an urgent need for strategic calibration in the partnership, especially on the part of Africa. This move could contribute to achieving the mutual progress proposed by China. For instance, there is hardly a coherent documented approach to how Africa and African countries will engage China. This gap continues to weaken the voice and bargaining power of the continent. The proposal that Africa should begin to negotiate with China as a bloc with a collective vision and strategic approach should be considered by countries. In addition, investment in value chains should be sought. The visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister and the renewed push for alliance from China offers another opportunity for African nations to reposition for a more impactful engagement and value-added partnership. Uche Igwe is a scholar and senior political economy analyst. He can be reached on ucheigwe@gmail.com Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print we are reminded of the immense potential for institutions in developing countries to lead in advancing global conversations on technological innovation. FUTOs 1st ICT International Conference has set a precedent that will undoubtedly inspire similar initiatives in the future. The maiden edition of the international conference organised by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), through its School of Information and Communications Technology (SICT), stands as a testament to the universitys commitment to academic excellence and innovation. As the chairman of the International Organising Committee, I was privileged to lead this groundbreaking initiative, which culminated in a highly successful conference from 1012 December, 2024. The journey began in May 2024 when I was appointed as chairman of the committee, with the capable Dr Stanley Adiele Okolie, the Associate Dean of SICT, serving as secretary. The committee comprised academics from Nigeria and across Europe, America, and Asia. Over the course of 11 meticulously planned meetings, we worked tirelessly to deliver a world-class event. Despite her demanding schedule, the Dean of SICT, Professor UF Eze, attended every meeting, exemplifying her dedication to the success of this initiative. The conference theme, The Fourth Industrial Technologies: Potentials and Challenges for Developing Countries, addressed the opportunities and obstacles posed by Industry 4.0 technologies. The sub-themes, encapsulated in Tracks 01-10, explored cutting-edge topics including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things, digital agriculture, nanotechnology, biotechnology, quantum and cloud computing, augmented reality, and virtual reality. These areas hold significant promise for shaping the future of developing nations. The opening ceremony on 10 December, 2024, was graced by high-profile attendees, including the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, and FUTOs Vice Chancellor, Professor Nnenna Otti. Other distinguished guests included the Vice Chancellor of Hesnard University, Bayelsa State, Professor Dileep Kumar M., alongside FUTOs three Deputy Vice Chancellors, the librarian, bursar, and former and current deans of SICT. Their presence added prestige and credibility to the event. The conference recorded remarkable milestones, underscoring its success: 1. Global Academic Connections 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 Relationships were forged with leading international scholars, including Professor Mike Hinchey. These connections bridged FUTO with the global academic community, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. 2. Academia-Government-Industry Synergy The conference strengthened the universitys ties with government institutions and industry players, aligning with the Triple Helix Model successfully implemented at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This synergy is crucial for driving innovation and economic development. 3. Focus on Industry 4.0 for Developing Countries The event served as a platform for discussing the transformative potential and challenges of Industry 4.0 in Africa. It emphasised the urgent need for proactive measures to ensure the continent leverages this industrial revolution effectively. 4. Research Collaborations The conference enabled collaborative research opportunities, particularly for academics who face constraints in attending international conferences. This initiative provided a critical platform for intellectual engagement and exchange. 5. Social and Cultural Exchange Social events, including opening ceremonies, tours, receptions, and dinners, enriched the conference experience. These activities facilitated networking, fostered cultural appreciation, and highlighted the diversity of participants. The conference was unanimously deemed a resounding success. It demonstrated that when academia, government, and industry collaborate, remarkable achievements are possible. We owe this accomplishment to the dedication of committee members, speakers, the university management, the Dean of SICT, and all attendees. As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded of the immense potential for institutions in developing countries to lead in advancing global conversations on technological innovation. FUTOs 1st ICT International Conference has set a precedent that will undoubtedly inspire similar initiatives in the future. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, a former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, is a cybersecurity scholar at FUTO. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. bp has commenced gas flow from wells at the GTA Phase 1 liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, marking a key milestone towards commissioning, Trend reports. Located offshore Mauritania and Senegal, GTA is one of Africas deepest offshore developments, with gas resources at depths up to 2,850 meters. Once fully operational, it is expected to produce 2.3 million tons of LNG annually. The project, declared "strategic national importance" by both host governments in 2021, positions Mauritania and Senegal to become key players in global LNG production. bp's EVP of production and operations, Gordon Birrell, highlighted the significance of the first gas flow as a step toward meeting global energy demands, emphasizing the commitment to supporting the development of natural resources in both countries. Gas from GTA Phase 1 will flow to the floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel offshore, where impurities are removed before being transferred to a floating LNG vessel for liquefaction and export. A portion of the gas will also contribute to meeting growing domestic energy needs. Dave Campbell, bp's SVP for Mauritania and Senegal, celebrated the projects progress, underscoring the enhanced role the nations will play as gas exporters. He also commended the strong partnerships and local workforce development initiatives, including job creation and a training program aimed at long-term opportunities for local communities. The GTA project has created over 3,000 local jobs and engaged approximately 300 local companies, marking a significant contribution to the economy of both nations. Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle aimed at optimising the performance of the administrations Building Your Future agenda. In the reshuffle, Malik Anas, a new commissionership nominee, has been appointed to head the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. Mr Anas holds a masters degree in Business Administration from Bayero University, Kano. He is a former Katsina State Accountant-General, and member of different professional bodies including Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Financial Reporting of Nigeria and others. Also, Bello Husaini Kagara, who heads the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, will now lead the Ministry of Finance while Bashir Tanimu Gambo, who previously served as Finance Commissioner, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. The reshuffle also sees Yusuf Rabiu Jirdede reassignment from the Ministry of Special Duties to assume leadership of the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Investment, while Adnan Nahabu has been redeployed from Commerce, Trade and Investment to head the Ministry of Special Duties. Governor Radda directed the newly appointed and reassigned commissioners to maintain excellent service to the people of Katsina State. He specifically charged Mr Anas to align his ministrys objectives with the administrations Building Your Future agenda, while urging all commissioners to intensify their efforts in serving the people of the state diligently. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The acting Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Katsina State, Rabo Tambaya Danja, has commended Governor Dikko Umaru Raddas administration for ensuring complete financial autonomy for local governments in the state. Speaking to newsmen in Katsina on Monday, Mr Danja who is also the chairman of Danja Local Government Area (LGA), emphasised that unlike some states where local government chairmen complain about gubernatorial interference with their funds, Katsina State maintains a transparent and autonomous system for local government administration. The State Government under the able leadership of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda ensures that local governments receive their due allocations without interference, Mr Danja stated, stressing that this autonomy goes beyond mere fund disbursement to include independent decision-making in project execution. The ALGON leader commended the states innovative Community Development Programme, describing it as a testament to the Radda administrations commitment to grassroots development. This initiative brings people on board to participate in decisions affecting their communities, he said. The programme allocates funds directly to local communities for essential projects in water supply, electricity, road construction and other areas of human development, he explained. Looking ahead to 2025, Mr Danja expressed optimism about the states economic prospects, citing improvements in GDP as a key indicator of development. He called for continued citizen cooperation with the government in the implementation of its development initiatives at all levels to sustain the existing positive trajectory. The year 2025 will be promising as were witnessing significant improvements in our local economy, he stated. Mr Danja also commended the Federal Government for doing its best by initiating several programmes and policies in the state as well across the country. In my local government, I am aware of ongoing conditional cash transfer and other categories of support to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal, he said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Katsina State Government has commended the Air Component (AC) of Operation Fansan Yamma and troops of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army as well as Police, DSS, Community Watch Corps and vigilantes for executing a successful offensive on bandits camps in Kadoji, Matso-Matso, Bagga, Dogon Marke and Takatsaba areas of Jibia Local Government (LGA). The operation by the troops, conducted on 4th January, 2025, followed credible intelligence revealing the establishment of bandit camps around the area, which had escalated banditry activities in Jibia, Batsari and Batagarawa LGAs. The joint air and ground operation resulted in the neutralization of 80 bandits, with several others sustaining injuries. Furthermore, their hideouts and key operational facilities were also destroyed, marking a significant blow to their operational capacity. A statement by the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu said the state government was deeply appreciative of the unwavering commitment and dedication of the joint security team towards restoring peace and stability in the state and the entire North West region. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Over one billion, five hundred and forty three million naira (N1,543,000,000) was disbursed as payment of terminal benefits to 609 public servants who retired from active service upon reaching the retirement age of sixty or attaining 35 years in service. The disbursements were made between August and December, 2024 by the Jigawa State and Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Board. The Board Executive Secretary, Bilyaminu Shitu Aminu, made this known while addressing the beneficiaries at the premises of the Board. Mr Bilyaminu, said the payment was categorised into four groups, indicating that the first batch of 465 retirees consists of those who retired either by reaching the mandatory retirement age of 35 years in service or sixty years by birth. Those in this category were paid N1.17 billion. The second category, made up of 103 staff, were those who died while on active service whose relations were paid the sum of N315.02 million. The third batch consists of 39 retirees who retired from service and started receiving monthly pension but died before reaching their minimum period of five years after retirement. These people were paid N54.19 million. The last batch comprised beneficiaries who did not contribute up to a period of five years, and the law stated that for every staff to qualify to be paid from the scheme was for him to contribute for a minimum period of five years. Under this category, two persons were paid the sum of N749, 010 including 15% interest. The Executive Secretary warned Pensioners across Jigawa State to be wary of fraudsters, saying Our services are free; never bribe any of our staff for your terminal benefits, as we worked under guidelines establishing our Board in line with Pension regulations. Dr Bilyaminu called on citizens of the State to continue to support the Government with their prayers in order to achieve a better Jigawa where everyone will be comfortable in the shared prosperity agenda of the State. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later He expressed appreciation to Governor Umar Namadi for his care and magnanimity to pensioners in the state adding that the prompt payment of pension and gratuity has helped to enliven the heart of pensioners and prayed that God would continue to fortify him to do more. He stated that the gesture would enhance service delivery as well as bolster the well-being of the retirees to enjoy a fulfilled life after service. The State Government and the Board will continue to ensure prompt payment of Pension and other entitlements to workers for better service delivery, well-being of retirees and fulfilled life after service he said. Some of the beneficiaries thanked the governor for prioritising issues concerning pensioners welfare. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Ecclesiastical evidence abounds to affirm that God does not look at people or issues through the same prism from which human beings perceive matters. As mortals, we give primacy to mundane parameters as appearance or outward adornments, height or whether the person is oozing opulence or simply look at nobility of a persons birth before ascribing value or judgment to such a person. The story of Davids ascension to the throne of Israel summarises how God make His choices. Prophet Samuel beheld the firstborn of Jesse named Eliab and, looking at his outward qualities, concluded here comes the Lords anointed king who will govern over Israel. But just before that thought could settle in the prophets mind, God told him that is not the man for the job. The story of Zacch Adedeji, executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is the story of a young, wise and brilliant man who has enjoyed exceptional grace of God. His father (of blessed memory) was a cocoa farmer from the mainly agrarian Iwo Ate town, in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. His mother is a trader-cum-farmer. It was thanks to Chief Obafemi Awolowos matchless leadership and quality governance that the town at that time boasted some basic municipal amenities like school and a dispensary. I can imagine the joy on his fathers face when the news was broken to him that his wife was delivered of a bouncing bonny baby boy later christened Zacchaeus Adelabu Adedeji. While his father desired functional education for Zacch, the first child of the family, the greater joy for the cocoa farmer would be that the birth of Baby Zacch means an extra hand on the farm, heir apparent to the cocoa farming business. This perception perhaps prevented Zacchs father from noticing the unique stars in the sky that heralded the arrival of a special child to the family, the humble background notwithstanding. The family did not realise they have been gifted a global talent whose brilliance and expertise will be acknowledged beyond the shores of Nigeria. While his father was looking at a child who will grow to become a helping hand on the farms, God was looking at a precious gift that will bring honour to the family name. Growing up for Zacch was not easy as there was no silver spoon in his mouth at birth. But with the grace of God upon his life, he was determined never to allow the circumstance of his birth dictate how far he could go in life. While going to school, he was also assisting his father in his cocoa farming. Zacch could not have chosen any other course in his post-secondary educational pursuit other than accountancy. He was his fathers book-keeper for the sale of cocoa produce. At the Federal Polytechnic in Ede, Osun State, where he studied Accountancy for his Ordinary National Diploma, Zacch came out flying with a distinction. Rather than return for his HND, he opted to further his studies at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, where he read management and accounting and finished with First Class honours. He did not allow the death of his father at about the time he was starting at Ife to extinguish his hope of having functional university education. Mr Adedejis special talent as a brilliant accountant quickly singled him out from the new recruits at P&G. He saved the company hundreds of millions of dollars in needless expenditure and deployed his financial wizardry to catapult the companys profit to new heights. For this exceptional display, the company dispatched him to one of the best business schools in Switzerland to share his experience with them. This feat earned him a seat at the management cadre of the American goods company earlier than any young recruit by the firm. He rose to become the Corporate Finance Manager for West Africa. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later It was while making his mark at the firm that he met a great leader, Senator Abiola Ajimobi (of blessed memory), sometime in 2009. He was just attending to what he would ordinarily consider a routine payment query when they met. Mr Ajimobi was happy to meet a young chap from Oyo State making waves at such a company. From that time, a journey of mentoring, love and support that would remain with Mr Adedeji for a lifetime started. It was a meeting that also changed his trajectory from the private sector to the public sector. Governor Ajimobi appointed him Finance Commissioner for Oyo State at age 33. Notable among his achievements include: raising Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from about N600m monthly to about N2bn in a short period, blocking leakages by streamlining government bank accounts through which a lot of money was haemorrhaged from about 100 to about 10. As executive secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, Mr Adedeji left an indelible mark, raising standards and re-engineering processes to deliver better quality service and increased productivity. When tapped as Special Adviser on Revenue by President Bola Tinubu, a lot of people speculated he would ultimately head the countrys tax agency, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). As an evangelist in the Anglican Communion, Mr Adedeji believes in the scripture that the power of life and death is the tongue. As the one whose duty it was to interface with FIRS tax officers while at P&G, he had said during one of his frequent visits to the Agidingbi office of the agency that someday, I would like to work in this organisation and contribute to its transformation. Today, not only is Mr Adedeji the executive chairman of FIRS, he has brought unprecedented transformation to the agency within a short period. FIRS, under him surpassed tax revenue target in 2023, leading to a higher revenue benchmark of N19.4 trillion set by government for 2024. Later this month, Adedeji will announce to Nigerians what the agency was able to collect in the year just ended. The agency has done well again and has exceeded the target from available information. To all who know the FIRS executive chairman and have had interactions with him, one special attribute stands him out: his humility. He relates with the young and the old quite well and the big success that God has given him does not get into his head. Many people have spoken so glowingly about this character trait in Zacch. In 2017, he and I returned to Nigeria from a trip to the US. He had gone on holiday and I had gone to cover the annual meetings of the World Bank/IMF. We were to lodge at a popular hotel in Ikeja on arrival. After dinner, the receptionist said only one room was left. Give it to us. Dare and I will share it, said Zacch. That was how we slept on the same bed that night. If there are so many positive things to say about Zacch who is 47 years today, then the future holds even a brighter future for the number one tax man in the country today. Our boss believes in Simon Sineks submission that leadership is not just about being in charge, but also about taking care of those in your charge. I join admirers and well-wishers to wish ZA many more happy years of his trademark brilliance and wisdom. May God continue to strengthen him in good health. .Adekanmbi is the Special Adviser on Media to the chairman, FIRS, Zacch Adedeji. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB) says it has shortlisted 1,811 applicants for employment as teachers and other workers in basic schools across the state. According to a statement by the KWSUBEB Chairman, Sheu Adaramaja, on Monday, the development follows the recent process involving at least 55,713 applicants. Mr Adaramaja said the successful applicants include 1,500 teachers, mostly from STEM subjects, and 311 non-teaching staff comprising drivers, security guards, and office assistants. Successful applicants with valid phone numbers have since been contacted for their letters. Documentation started on Monday, January 6, with successful applicants from Kwara North, Tuesday, January 7, is for new hires from Kwara South, while Wednesday, January 8, is for successful candidates from Kwara Central, according to the statement. Documents required during documentation include original and two photocopies of all credentials; two file jackets and tags; citizenship certificate; two passport photographs; bond signing; biodata form to be filled, among other things, the statement added. Mr Adaramaja said the process focused more on hiring persons who would stay in their place of assignment, underscoring why the board sought nominations of competent and qualified hands from rural communities to bridge the manpower need in the hinterlands. 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 Nigerian Navy says its personnel deployed around the Agbura community in Bayelsa, have rescued nine passengers comprising eight police operatives and one civilian. The Director of Naval Information, Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja. Mr Adams-Aliu, a commodore, said its personnel also recovered three rifles belonging to the police operatives during the search and rescue operation. He said the police officers were drowned while enroute Yenagoa, when their speed boat hit a submerged wreck and capsized. According to him, first aid was administered to those injured and were subsequently transferred to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, for further medical treatment. He said the submerged wreckage that caused the incident was noted and marked to prevent further occurrences. The recovered weapons were documented and secured awaiting proper handing and taking over to the Nigerian Police Force, Bayelsa State Command. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later READ ALSO: Council chairperson bans gas refilling in residential areas after gas explosion This successful rescue operation underscores the synergy and collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and security agencies. The Nigerian navy remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring safety on the nations waterways and fostering collaboration with other security stakeholders to enhance national security. The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, reiterates the navys unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians within the maritime domain. The CNS also commended the swift response and professionalism of the personnel involved in this operation, he said. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Aba Power Limited Electric (APLE) has announced an upward review of electricity tariffs for its customers. The upward review takes effect from 1 January the company disclosed in a statement signed by its management posted on its official X handle. Last December, the company began moves for an upward review of electricity tariff with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). At the time, the company said its current tariff was no longer sustainable and was affecting its ability to provide efficient and reliable electricity supply to its customers, noting that the cost of generating and distributing electricity had increased significantly due to the changes in macroeconomic parameters in the country. Upward review In its statement Tuesday, the company said it received an approval order from NERC for an adjustment of electricity tariffs. According to the company, customers in band A-Non MD, A-MD1 and A-MD2 will now pay N219.70/kWh, N236.41/kWh and N241.44/kWh respectively. For customers in band B-Non MD, B-MD1 and B-MD2 will now pay N210.46/kWh, N229.56/kWh and N234.07/kWh respectively. 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 Also, band C-Non MD, C-MD1 and C-MD2 customers will now pay N180.77/kWh, N203.89/kWh and N205.69/kWh respectively. Band D-Non MD, D-MD1 and D-MD2, E-Non MD, E-MD1 and E-MD2 customers will pay N145.87/kWh, N160.96/kWh and N160.96/kWh respectively. Dear valued customer, welcome to 2025. Our team members wish you all a happy and successful New Year. We also wish to inform you that we have recently received an approval order from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for an adjustment of electricity tariffs, effective 1 January 2025. This adjustment will enable us to cushion the effects of recent macroeconomic developments in Nigeria on our ability to continue to deliver a high quality of service to our customers in compliance with regulatory standards, the statement said. It explained that the order also followed recent public consultations held in late 2024 during the customers forum. Kindly contact our dedicated customer care team for inquiry and support. Thank you for your support and understanding, it said. In April 2024, NERC announced a hike in electricity tariffs for Band A customers, noting that they enjoy an average daily electricity supply of 20 hours, although supply has been poor in some locations. The policy allowed distribution companies (DisCos) to raise electricity prices to N225 per kilowatt-hour from N68, in return for guaranteeing 20 hours of electricity supply per day. However, the decision attracted criticism among Nigerians. On 30 April 2024, the House of Representatives urged NERC to suspend the tariff hike pending the conclusion of its investigation. Following the resolution by the House, DisCos, on 6 May 2024, announced tariff reduction. Announcing the reduction at the time, the distribution companies said customers in Band A would pay N206.80/kwh from N225/kwh. Last July, the DisCos proceeded with another hike and even upgraded more customers into the Band A category. Announcing the upward review at the time, the distribution companies said customers in Band A were expected to pay N209.5/kwh from N206.80/kwh. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print From the tragic incidents in Oyo State to the off-cycle election in Ondo State, the South-west region recorded a potpourri of events, some good and some bad, in 2024. In this report, PREMIUM TIMES recalls some of the events. This report also provides insights into the ripple effects of some of them that may continue in at least the early part of the new year. Bodija explosion Nigerians had barely settled into the new year when news of a devastating explosion in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, South-west Nigeria, rocked the nation. A Malian miner, Camara Mamadou, had stored explosives in a duplex at 8B, Reverend Aderinola Close, Old Bodija, Ibadan. Five persons died and properties worth millions of Naira were destroyed. Some of the victims who lost their homes remain homeless to date. A PREMIUM TIMES investigation revealed damning details about Mr Mamadou and Meduret Resources Nigeria Limited, the mining company where the miner serves as a director. The report brought to light the corruption and irregularities that pervade Nigerias mining sector. The activities of illegal miners in the state were also documented. Despite assurances to expose and prosecute the persons responsible for the explosion, the Oyo State Government failed to ensure the repatriation and prosecution of Mr Mamadou. Only his wife, Ramatu, and other associates were arraigned in court. Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later The Minister of Sold Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has yet to make public the findings of the ministrys investigation. Launch of Lagos Red Line Train Project While the devastating incident was unfolding in Oyo State, the Lagos State Government was planning the unveiling of the Lagos Mass Rail Transit (LMRT) red line train project. The 27-kilometre rail line was inaugurated in February by President Bola Tinubu. The project, which is in its first phase, runs from Agbado in Ogun State to the Oyingbo axis of Lagos State. The rail line has eight stations: Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and Oyingbo. The train service, projected to move about 500,000 residents daily, aims to improve mobility and reshape the states urban landscape. Eight months later in October, the Red Line train commenced operations. Commuters were charged between N500 and N1,500 per trip. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project Unlike the Lagos Mass Rail Transit (LMRT) red line train project, which was well received by residents, the Lagos-Calabar highway project elicited criticisms from Nigerians. The N15 trillion highway runs 700 kilometres across the coastal lines of Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom states, and ends in Calabar, Cross River State. The ambitious project was awarded to Hitech Construction Company Limited on an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement. This arrangement means that the contractor bears a large share of the risk and funding, and the federal government provides counterpart funding. Critics raised concerns about the close relationship between President Tinubu and the owners of Hitech, Ronald and Gilbert Chagoury. They also wondered why the contract was awarded to Hitech without bidding or open tender. Central to the controversy is the demolition of properties which are not on the projects right of way. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, faced backlash from affected residents, some of whom have gone to court to seek redress. Cholera outbreak While residents affected by the fallout of the highway project were trying to make sense of their predicament, a cholera outbreak struck the nation. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), from 1 January to 29 September 2024, Nigeria recorded 10,837 cholera cases, with 359 deaths. With 4,667 cases, Lagos State accounted for 43 per cent of all suspected cases in the 36 states of Nigeria. Three local government areas (LGAs), Lagos Island, Eti Osa, and Lagos Mainland, recorded the most cases in the state. The breakdown of the case distribution in the South-west region shows Ogun had133 cases, Oyo 128 cases, Osun 49 cases, Ondo 41 cases, and Ekiti 19 cases. A PREMIUM TIMES report found that Lagos had become the epicentre of the cholera outbreak due to inadequate water supply for the states 24 million population as well as contaminated water sources, particularly unregistered tiger nut drinks, and inadequate water supply, especially in Lagos Island. Protests and arrests A 10-day demonstration to draw the governments attention to widespread hunger and bad governance kicked off in many states on 1 August. The protest with the hashtags #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria and #EndHungerProtest was pronounced in the South-west states of Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun states. However, residents of Ekiti State shunned it. Days into the protest, the demonstration suffered a decline in interest, as fewer protesters showed up at the protest ground in Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos. Again on 1 October, protesters converged on Ikeja Underbridge and the Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos State, in continuation of Augusts hunger protest, as the country marked her 64th Independence Day celebration. However, nine protesters were arrested on the second day of the protest. Days later, they were released on bail. More arrests were made by the police on 20 October when protesters gathered at the Lekki tollgate for a memorial rally to commemorate the nationwide #EndSARS protest of 2020. A human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, confirmed the arrest and release of 22 activists. One of the protesters, Olamide Thomas, was arrested by the police on 13 December over allegations of raining cures of death upon Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Tinubu, as well as the children of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, in a live Facebook video. She was arrested at her home in Somolu in Lagos and flown to Abuja, where the police charged her with three counts of cyberbullying. Her bail request was denied by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Ondo election In November, an off-cycle governorship election was held in Ondo State. The incumbent, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), emerged as the winner of the election. Mr Aiyedatiwa, who will be inaugurated on 24 February 2024, recorded a landslide victory as he won in all 18 local government areas in the South-west state. With a total of 366,781 votes, the APC candidate defeated his closest rival, Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 117,845. While violence was recorded in the days leading to the election, observers believe the election result reflects the ballot cast. A civil society organisation, Yiaga Africa, however, said it observed widespread vote buying, non-inclusion of Persons Living with Disability (PWDs), and unprofessionalism of some security and INEC polling officials. Meanwhile, PDP rejected the result of the governorship election and went to court to seek redress. Afe Babalola Vs Dele Farotimi saga A book authored by a Lagos-based lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, titled, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, drew attention from within and outside Nigeria to the South-west region in the year. Launched quietly in Lagos in July, the book spurred national reckoning about the issues with the Nigerian judicial system and became the centre of a sensational criminal defamation case filed in December by the police on behalf of a senior lawyer, Afe Babalola. In his 104-page book, Mr Farotimi said Mr Babalola corrupted the Supreme Court to procure a fraudulent judgement in the service of his clients, among other allegations. Mr Farotimi was subsequently arrested in his Lagos office and moved to Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital, to face 16 counts of criminal defamation at a chief magistrates court and 12 counts of cybercrime at the Federal High Court in the state. Human rights activists questioned why Mr Farotimi was driven to Ekiti State for prosecution when the book was published in Lagos State and the issues raised in the book happened in Lagos. They argued that under the Nigerian criminal justice system, the accused is tried where the act was committed and not at the location of the complainant. A former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chidi Odinkalu, also argued that criminal defamation is not an offence under the laws of Lagos and Ekiti states, and as such, it is illegal to charge Mr Farotimi under the Criminal Code Act, a federal law, at the state-owned chief magistrates court. Mr Farotimis allegations of corruption stemmed from a decades-long land dispute between the Eletu and the Ojomu families, over 254 hectares of land at Osapa, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos. The Gbadamosi Eletu familys claim to 254.558 hectares of land in Lekki was disputed by the Ojomu Chieftaincy Family, leading to a series of court battles that ultimately resulted in the Supreme Court awarding the Gbadamosi Eletu family only 10 hectares (24.17 acres) of land. Mr Babalola, who represented the Eletu family, claimed that the 24.17 acres granted to his client was an error. So, he got the Supreme Court to grant a statutory right of occupancy to the entire 254 hectares through a motion for variation of the earlier judgement. However, Mr Farotimi alleged in his book that Mr Babalola used unethical and corrupt methods in the case to secure the 254 hectares of land for his clients. The Chief Magistrates Court and the Federal High Court granted Mr Farotimi bail in the sums of N30 million and N50 million, respectively. He was released after meeting the bail conditions. Ibadan stampede On 18 December, tragedy struck again in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, when 35 children died in a stampede during a Christmas charity funfair. The incident happened at the Islamic High School, in the Bashorun area of Ibadan. About 5,000 children had reportedly gathered hours before the scheduled time for the event organised by Naomi Silekunola, an ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife and founder of Women In Need of Guidance and Support (WINGS) Foundation. In a Facebook post, Agidigbo FM, a radio station founded by popular broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat and based in Ibadan, stated that the former queen promised that the children would win exciting prizes like scholarships and other bountiful gifts. It is not clear exactly how the stampede occurred. However, the police said they started investigating the incident and arrested eight persons, including the former Ile-Ife queen, Agidigbo FM founder Mr Hamzat, and the principal of Islamic High School where the incident happened, Fasasi Abdullahi. They jointly face charges of conspiracy, murder, and negligent acts causing harm. On 24 December 2024, a Chief Magistrate, Olabisi Ogunkanmi, remanded the three of them in the Agodi Correctional Centre in Ibadan pending the issuance of legal advice from the state Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP). The case was adjourned until 13 January. A First Class King Dies In March, Ibadan lost its monarch, Oba Olalekan Balogun. The 42nd Olubadan was 81 years old when he died a few days after marking his second coronation anniversary. The late Olubadan was buried according to Islamic rites at his Aliwo ancestral home in Ibadan. In July, a new Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, was crowned as the 43rd Olubadan of lbadan land. After his crowning ceremony, the 89-year-old king was presented with the staff and instrument of office by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State. 2025 outlook The defamation and cybercrime cases against Mr Farotimi are expected to be among the top stories from Ekiti State in the first half of 2025, as a further hearing at the Federal High Court is scheduled for 29 January and at the magistrates court on 15 February. Also, the murder trial of erstwhile queen and Mr Hazmat for the Christmas funfare stampede which led to the death of 35 children will be closely monitored by residents of Ibadan and other parts of the South-west region. The case of Ms Thomas, a protester arrested and charged with three counts of cyberbullying, is also expected to develop further. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. Azerbaijan Railways CJSC sent a shipment from the Baku cargo station to the Sangachal station utilizing a bill of lading with an electronic signature for the inaugural time in its history, the CJSC told Trend. As the company puts it, tossing out paper documentation in favor of electronic bills of lading is a game changer; documents zip back and forth in real-time between the shipper, station, and consignee; with automatic tariff calculation, transparency and control are as clear as day; and the time spent on preparing, registering, processing, and delivering documents is cut down to size significantly. Azerbaijan Railways underscored that a pivotal objective is the comprehensive deployment of electronic documentation for domestic logistics in the imminent future. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel LONDON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 2024 saw increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity threats as criminals leveraged all forms of AI to create difficult-to-detect phishing attacks, deepfakes, and ransomware incidents. To counter these, organisations adopted AI-driven security solutions including threat detection, automated incident response, and intelligent vulnerability management, to protect data and infrastructure. In 2025, as AI evolves further in sophistication and adoption, alongside the growing burden of data breach costs and regulation in addition to implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, organisations must prioritise real-world security awareness training. Explaining why this is so, Usman Choudhary, Chief Product & Technology Officer, VIPRE Security Group, offers his thoughts on security trends that will dominate in 2025: Combatting AI-powered phishing presents the biggest cybersecurity challenge for small and medium enterprises In 2025, AI-driven phishing will evolve into a more sophisticated and stealthy threat. Cybercriminals will leverage AI to craft highly personalised attacks using publicly available data and advanced language capabilities, making these scams increasingly difficult to detect. This emerging strategy of threat actors involves multi-stage attack chains where initial communications appear innocuous, gradually building trust before delivering malicious payloads. Attackers will specifically target platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, exploiting their inherent limitations for credential harvesting. Ransomware actors will develop "hybrid" campaigns that blend phishing techniques with nuanced social engineering, manipulating recipients into unwittingly downloading dangerous files. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are at risk of becoming prime targets due to their limited cybersecurity resources. Criminals will not only directly attack these organisations but also use them as strategic entry points for more extensive supply chain attacks into larger enterprises. Adoption of AI-driven email drafting tools will potentially lead to increased mis-delivery-related data breaches Already, misdirected emails have become a critical cybersecurity concern. Potentially, it is the most common cyber incident reported to the UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) from a GDPR compliance standpoint. The rise of hybrid work model and the use of personal devices for work-related tasks often leads to misdirection of email, incorrect file attachments, and miscommunication. Auto-complete and auto-correct features in popular email clients such as Outlook and Gmail further exacerbate the risk of misdirected emails, especially as often multiple contacts have similar names. As the adoption of AI-driven email drafting tools grows in 2025, the potential for data breaches triggered by misdirection increases exponentially. These advanced email writing assistants not only draft content but also suggest recipients based on historical patterns, introducing an additional layer of complexity. The consequences can be severe and costly. A single misdirected email can expose sensitive information to unintended recipients, highlighting the importance of vigilance and careful review in today's increasingly automated communication environment. The exploitation of supply chain vulnerabilities through AI-generated malware will increase The cybersecurity landscape in 2024 witnessed a noticeable increase in the use of malware by cybercriminals to breach corporate networks, leading to widely publicised data leaks and reputational damage for the organisations involved. Likewise, criminals exploited supply chain vulnerabilities to infiltrate systems and cause severe disruptions, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of software integrity failures. In 2025, cybercriminals are poised to deploy AI-generated malware to breach both corporate networks and exploit supply chain ecosystems for vulnerabilities. They will leverage AI to develop highly evasive malware to bypass traditional detection methods while also automating vulnerability scanning and phishing. To neutralise these threats, security professionals will need to respond with equally proactive and innovative defensive strategies, including seamlessly integrating zero-trust architecture, embedding AI-powered tools, and implementing rigorous software development practices into their operational workflows. Mounting data breach costs and regulatory burden will amplify security awareness training urgency In 2024, enterprises faced an increasingly challenging cyber threat landscape, as cybercriminals successfully exploited the most advanced technologies, including AI, to breach organisations and cause mayhem. Research shows that the average cost of a data breach reached an all-time high with the global average cost of a data breach estimated at USD 4.88 million. Human error still remains the number one reason for a successful data breach. To address this continuously intensifying situation, the regulatory burden is set to increase even more in 2025. The EU AI Act, which has already taken effect, has significant implications for organisations using AI in their operations, including cybersecurity and privacy. In the US, several states have either enforced or are enacting Data privacy laws in 2025, with all looking to address the collection, use and disclosure of personal data. These laws impose various obligations on businesses, including data protection, breach notification, and consumer rights. The fallout of cybersecurity breaches in 2025 alongside the toughened regulatory landscape will give further impetus and urgency to security awareness training. While technological solutions are of course critical to defend against the constant onslaught of cyber-attacks, employees' understanding of the threat landscape and vigilance is indispensable for mitigating cybersecurity risk, and demonstrating regulatory compliance. About VIPRE Security Group VIPRE Security Group, the cybersecurity division of Ziff Davis, is one of the world's leading providers of cybersecurity solutions tailored for midsize to large enterprises. With nearly three decades of experience serving thousands of organisations and a global partner community, VIPRE's integrated cloud-based security solutions span across endpoint, email, compliance training, MDR, threat sandbox analysis, and threat intelligence data feeds. VIPRE provides the highest efficacy AI/ML-based advanced threat protection in the industry and simultaneously provides human risk mitigation tools through educational initiatives, GenAI tools, and technologies to empower users with a vision to democratise cybersecurity. Additionally, VIPRE's Inspired eLearning, the most awarded security awareness and phishing simulation platform in the industry, provides security awareness and compliance training for every business. VIPRE operates globally under various brands, including VIPRE, StrongVPN, IPVanish, Inspired eLearning, Livedrive, and SugarSync. More information at www.VIPRE.com. SOURCE VIPRE Security Group BURLINGTON, Mass., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AAM15 Management is thrilled to announce its acquisition of the legendary Kelly's Roast Beef brand, along with ownership of its four flagship locations in Saugus, Medford, Danvers, and Revere Beach, Massachusetts. This marks a historic milestone for one of the most beloved dining establishments in the state. AAM15 Management Acquires Kellys Roast Beef Brand and Expands Ownership to Four Iconic Massachusetts Locations Founded in 1951, Kelly's Roast Beef has been a Massachusetts institution for over 70 years, celebrated for its signature roast beef sandwiches and deep roots in the local community. AAM15 Management is committed to honoring this rich legacy while implementing strategic enhancements to position the brand for future success. David Masse, Founder and CEO of AAM15 Management, is a Massachusetts native with a long-standing connection to Kelly's Roast Beef. "Growing up in this region, Kelly's was always a part of my life. It's more than just a restaurantit's a symbol of community and tradition," said Masse. "We're proud to take on the responsibility of continuing Kelly's legacy and ensuring it thrives for generations to come." AAM15 Management brings extensive expertise to this acquisition, drawing on years of experience in managing full-service hotels and food and beverage operations under globally recognized brands. To support this new venture, AAM15 has assembled a team of top-tier food and beverage professionals who will focus on expanding locations, securing licensing agreements, and developing additional franchise opportunitieskey components of Kelly's ongoing success. This acquisition reflects a shared vision between AAM15 Management and Kelly's Roast Beef, emphasizing quality, tradition, and community connection. With a strong track record of managing and expanding iconic hospitality brands, AAM15 is uniquely positioned to elevate Kelly's Roast Beef to new heights while maintaining its core values. "Our goal is to preserve everything that has made Kelly's Roast Beef an icon in Massachusetts while identifying opportunities to innovate and grow," added Masse. "We are dedicated to ensuring Kelly's remains a symbol of excellence for decades to come." Under AAM15's leadership, Kelly's Roast Beef will continue to thrive as a Massachusetts institution while exploring opportunities for future expansion. Whether through new locations or operational enhancements, AAM15 is committed to building on Kelly's legacy of quality and community. About AAM15 Management AAM15 Management is a premier asset management firm with a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality, multifamily properties, a private country club on the North Shore, and AAM15 Restaurant Group. Committed to excellence, AAM15 focuses on driving growth, innovation, and success across all its operations. Media Contact: Olivia Armstrong Email: [email protected] SOURCE AAM15 Management LLC WOOD DALE, Ill., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), a leading provider of aviation services to commercial and government operators, MROs, and OEMs, reported today financial results for the fiscal year 2025 second quarter ended November 30, 2024. SECOND QUARTER FISCAL YEAR 2025 HIGHLIGHTS (As compared to Q2 FY24) Sales of $686 million ; increased 26% of ; increased 26% Organic growth of 12%; accelerated from 6% in Q1 of 12%; accelerated from 6% in Q1 GAAP EPS of $(0.87) of Adjusted EPS (diluted) of $0.90 ; increased 11% of ; increased 11% GAAP Net loss of $31 million of Adjusted EBITDA of $78 million ; increased 42% of ; increased 42% Cash flow provided by operating activities of $22 million MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY "AAR delivered another solid quarter with record sales and improved margins," said John M. Holmes, AAR's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Our sales grew 26%, underpinned by strong organic growth of 12%, which accelerated from 6% in the first quarter. We saw 20% sales growth in our Parts Supply segment, led by a significant expansion in our commercial new parts distribution activities, and a return to growth in USM as high demand for engine and airframe components continued and asset availability improved. Sales in Repair & Engineering grew 57% year-over-year due to meaningful contributions from our Product Support acquisition and continued efficiency gains in our heavy maintenance hangars. The double-digit sales growth across our commercial and government businesses have us tracking toward another record year." Holmes continued, "We were also pleased to secure new business wins in each of our core segments. In Parts Supply, we signed new distribution agreements with Chromalloy and Whippany Actuation Systems, and in Integrated Solutions we extended our Airinmar contract with Singapore Airlines. Shortly after the quarter closed, our Repair & Engineering segment announced a joint venture with Air France to support next generation aircraft in the Asia-Pacific region out of our Thailand facility. Additionally, as part of our strategy to focus on higher margin activities, we recently announced the divestiture of our Landing Gear Overhaul business, which we expect to be immediately accretive to margins and earnings upon closing." "Furthermore, we drove significant expansion in our adjusted EBITDA margins, increasing to 11.4% in the quarter from 10.1% in the prior year quarter. As we continue to optimize our portfolio and drive efficiencies throughout our businesses, we anticipate continued margin expansion in the coming quarters," Holmes concluded. RECENT UPDATES NEW BUSINESS Multi-year engine parts supply agreement to distribute Chromalloy's Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) parts for the CF6-80C2 engine type Multi-year global agreement with Whippany Actuation Systems, a TransDigm Group business, to distribute all components and sub-assemblies for their actuation product line Extension with Singapore Airlines for Airinmar's full suite of repair cycle management services Agreement to form a joint venture in the Asia-Pacific region with Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance to support next generation aircraft PORTFOLIO UPDATE Subsequent to the quarter, the Company announced an agreement to divest its Landing Gear Overhaul business for $51 million . The divestiture is part of the Company's strategy to optimize its portfolio and focus on higher margin businesses with more significant growth potential. SECOND QUARTER FISCAL YEAR 2025 RESULTS Consolidated second quarter sales increased 26% to $686.1 million, compared to $545.4 million in the same quarter last year. This reflects a 30% increase in consolidated sales to commercial customers, primarily due to the acquisition of the Product Support business and strong demand throughout the Company's Parts Supply segment. Sales to government customers increased 16% from the same period last year, primarily due to increased order volume for new parts distribution activities. Sales to commercial customers were 73% of consolidated sales, compared to 71% in the prior year quarter. Second quarter results include after-tax charges of $57.1 million associated with the recently announced FCPA settlement and related costs. As a result of these charges, the Company reported a net loss of $30.6 million, or $0.87 per share. For the second quarter of the prior year, the Company reported net income of $23.8 million, or $0.67 per diluted share. Adjusted diluted earnings per share in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 were $0.90, compared to $0.81 in the second quarter of the prior year. Selling, general, and administrative expenses were $133.1 million in the current quarter, compared to $65.7 million in the prior year quarter. The second quarter included $59.2 million for the settlement of FCPA allegations and related costs. Acquisition, amortization, and integration expenses were $4.4 million in the quarter, compared to $3.1 million in the prior year quarter. Operating margins were (0.3)% in the quarter, compared to 7.0% in the prior year quarter. Adjusted operating margin increased to 9.2% in the current year quarter from 8.1% in the prior year quarter, primarily as a result of growth in commercial sales. Sequentially, our adjusted operating margin increased from 9.1% to 9.2%, driven by improved profitability in our Repair & Engineering segment. Net interest expense for the quarter was $18.8 million, compared to $5.6 million last year, primarily due to increased debt levels as a result of funding the Product Support acquisition. Average diluted share count increased from 35.3 million shares in the prior year quarter to 35.5 million shares in the current year quarter. Debt repayment remains a priority, but the Company will also continue to evaluate other attractive investment opportunities as well as share repurchases for capital deployment. Currently, $52.5 million remains on the existing $150 million share repurchase program. Cash flow provided by operating activities was $22.0 million during the current quarter, compared to cash provided of $17.4 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the accounts receivable financing program, cash flow provided by operating activities was $27.1 million in the current quarter. As of November 30, 2024, net debt was $935.3 million and net leverage, pro forma for the last 12 months adjusted EBITDA of the Product Support business, was 3.17x. Holmes concluded, "We anticipate continued strong sales growth in the second half of fiscal year 2025. We also expect further margin expansion in the same period as we realize the benefits from continued growth in Parts Supply, synergies from the Product Support acquisition, and the completion of our recently announced divestiture. These margins should improve even further in fiscal year 2026 as we grow the higher margin Product Support business and our hangar expansions in Miami and Oklahoma City come online. Finally, we remain on track to reduce leverage following the Product Support acquisition as EBITDA increases and we generate operating cash." Conference call information On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 4 p.m. Central time, AAR will hold a conference call to discuss the results. A listen-only webcast and slides can be accessed at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/ajocdbor. Participants may join via phone by registering at https://register.vevent.com/register/BIbb0ac5ff18564eedbc99a44684780b13. Once registered, participants will receive a dial-in number and a unique PIN that will allow them to access the call. A replay of the conference call will be available for on-demand listening shortly after the completion of the call at the webcast link and will remain available for approximately one year. The slides are also available on AAR's website at https://www.aarcorp.com/en/investors/events-and-presentations/. About AAR AAR is a global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago area, AAR supports commercial and government customers through four operating segments: Parts Supply, Repair & Engineering, Integrated Solutions, and Expeditionary Services. Additional information can be found at aarcorp.com/. Contact: Denise Pacioni Director of Investor Relations | +1-630-227-5830 | [email protected] This press release contains certain statements relating to future results, which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which reflect management's expectations about future conditions, including, but not limited to, continued demand in the commercial and government aviation markets, anticipated activities and benefits under extended, expanded and new services, supply and distribution agreements, focus on our strategy, opportunities for capital deployment and margin improvement, earnings performance, debt management, cash flow generation, increased EBITDA, contributions from our recent acquisitions, benefits from our expected divestiture, expectations for our parts distribution activities, and expansions of our heavy maintenance aircraft hangars. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future operating and financial performance and financial condition, or targets, goals, commitments, and other business plans, and often may also be identified because they contain words such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "likely," "may," "might," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "seek," "should," "target," "will," "would," or similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions and estimates based on information available to the Company as of the dates such assumptions and estimates are made, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated, depending on a variety of factors, including: (i) factors that adversely affect the commercial aviation industry; (ii) adverse events and negative publicity in the aviation industry; (iii) a reduction in sales to the U.S. government and its contractors; (iv) cost overruns and losses on fixed-price contracts; (v) nonperformance by subcontractors or suppliers; (vi) a reduction in outsourcing of maintenance activity by airlines; (vii) a shortage of skilled personnel or work stoppages; (viii) competition from other companies; (ix) financial, operational and legal risks arising as a result of operating internationally; (x) inability to integrate acquisitions effectively and execute operational and financial plans related to the acquisitions; (xi) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions; (xii) circumstances associated with divestitures; (xiii) inability to recover costs due to fluctuations in market values for aviation products and equipment; (xiv) cyber or other security threats or disruptions; (xv) a need to make significant capital expenditures to keep pace with technological developments in our industry; (xvi) restrictions on use of intellectual property and tooling important to our business; (xvii) inability to fully execute our stock repurchase program and return capital to stockholders; (xviii) limitations on our ability to access the debt and equity capital markets or to draw down funds under loan agreements; (xix) non-compliance with restrictive and financial covenants contained in our debt and loan agreements; (xx) changes in or non-compliance with laws and regulations related to federal contractors, the aviation industry, international operations, safety, and environmental matters, and the costs of complying with such laws and regulations; and (xxi) exposure to product liability and property claims that may be in excess of our liability insurance coverage. Should one or more of those risks or uncertainties materialize adversely, or should underlying assumptions or estimates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described. Those events and uncertainties are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many are beyond our control. For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Part I, "Item 1A, Risk Factors" and our other filings from time to time with the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission. These events and uncertainties are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many are beyond the Company's control. The risks described in these reports are not the only risks we face, as additional risks and uncertainties are not currently known or foreseeable or impossible to predict accurately or risks that are beyond the Company's control or deemed immaterial may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations in future periods. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events. AAR CORP. and subsidiaries Condensed consolidated statements of operations (In millions except per share data - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Sales $ 686.1 $ 545.4 $ 1,347.8 $ 1,095.1 Cost of sales 557.5 442.0 1,102.0 890.4 Gross profit 128.6 103.4 245.8 204.7 Provision for (Recovery of) credit losses (0.3) (0.1) 0.4 Selling, general, and administrative 133.1 65.7 209.0 140.4 Earnings (Loss) from joint ventures 1.9 0.6 4.2 (0.3) Operating income (loss) (2.3) 38.3 41.1 63.6 Pension settlement charge (26.7) Losses related to sale and exit of business, net (1.2) (0.9) (1.3) (1.6) Interest expense, net (18.8) (5.6) (37.1) (11.0) Other expense, net (0.2) (0.1) (0.3) (0.1) Income (Loss) before income tax expense (22.5) 31.7 2.4 24.2 Income tax expense 8.1 7.9 15.0 1.0 Net income (loss) $ (30.6) $ 23.8 $ (12.6) $ 23.2 Earnings (Loss) per share Basic $ (0.87) $ 0.67 $ (0.36) $ 0.66 Earnings (Loss) per share Diluted $ (0.87) $ 0.67 $ (0.36) $ 0.65 Share data used for earnings (loss) per share: Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 35.2 34.9 35.2 34.9 Weighted average shares outstanding Diluted 35.2 35.3 35.2 35.3 AAR CORP. and subsidiaries Condensed consolidated balance sheets (In millions) November 30, 2024 May 31, 2024 (unaudited) ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents $ 61.7 $ 85.8 Restricted cash 20.8 10.3 Accounts receivable, net 320.4 287.2 Contract assets 150.2 123.2 Inventories, net 790.0 733.1 Rotable assets and equipment on or available for lease 65.5 81.5 Other current assets 89.4 68.5 Total current assets 1,498.0 1,389.6 Property, plant, and equipment, net 167.0 171.7 Goodwill and intangible assets, net 770.5 790.2 Rotable assets supporting long-term programs 174.0 166.3 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 90.5 96.6 Other non-current assets 149.3 155.6 Total assets $ 2,849.3 $ 2,770.0 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Accounts payable $ 291.8 $ 238.0 Other current liabilities 266.5 228.9 Total current liabilities 558.3 466.9 Long-term debt 986.7 985.4 Operating lease liabilities 78.0 80.3 Other liabilities and deferred revenue 44.7 47.6 Total liabilities 1,667.7 1,580.2 Equity 1,181.6 1,189.8 Total liabilities and equity $ 2,849.3 $ 2,770.0 AAR CORP. and subsidiaries Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows (In millions unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities: Net income (loss) $ (30.6) $ 23.8 $ (12.6) $ 23.2 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Depreciation and amortization 14.6 8.7 28.8 17.1 Stock-based compensation expense 5.0 3.6 10.0 7.9 Loss (Earnings) from joint ventures (1.9) (4.2) 0.3 Pension settlement charge 26.7 Provision for (Recovery of) credit losses (0.3) (0.1) 0.4 Changes in certain assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable (9.6) 34.2 (33.3) (6.3) Contract assets (2.7) (0.1) (27.2) (12.4) Inventories (42.6) (31.7) (57.4) (71.5) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (2.1) (1.4) (10.6) (10.2) Rotable assets supporting long-term programs (5.6) (3.0) (12.1) (4.0) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 94.1 (7.0) 102.6 47.2 Deferred revenue on long-term programs (6.5) (5.2) (6.4) (9.5) Other 10.2 (4.5) 25.9 (10.0) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities continuing operations 22.0 17.4 3.4 (1.1) Net cash used in operating activities discontinued operations (0.2) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 22.0 17.4 3.4 (1.3) Cash flows used in investing activities: Property, plant, and equipment expenditures (8.3) (7.3) (16.2) (16.4) Other 0.4 (1.4) 3.0 (3.9) Net cash used in investing activities (7.9) (8.7) (13.2) (20.3) Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities: Short-term borrowings (repayments) on Revolving Credit Facility, net 5.0 (30.0) 5.0 Other 0.3 6.6 (3.8) 10.3 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 5.3 (23.4) (3.8) 15.3 Increase (Decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 19.4 (14.7) (13.6) (6.3) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period 63.1 90.2 96.1 81.8 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 82.5 $ 75.5 $ 82.5 $ 75.5 AAR CORP. and subsidiaries Third-party sales by segment (In millions - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Parts Supply $ 273.7 $ 227.6 $ 523.4 $ 464.4 Repair & Engineering 228.8 145.4 446.4 282.9 Integrated Solutions 163.4 156.6 332.3 312.9 Expeditionary Services 20.2 15.8 45.7 34.9 $ 686.1 $ 545.4 $ 1,347.8 $ 1,095.1 Operating income (loss) by segment (In millions- unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Parts Supply $ 31.6 $ 28.4 $ 61.7 $ 43.5 Repair & Engineering 22.8 11.3 43.9 20.4 Integrated Solutions 6.5 6.4 14.2 14.1 Expeditionary Services 2.2 0.9 0.5 2.2 63.1 47.0 120.3 80.2 Corporate and other (65.4) (8.7) (79.2) (16.6) $ (2.3) $ 38.3 $ 41.1 $ 63.6 Adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted operating margin, adjusted cash provided by (used in) operating activities, adjusted EBITDA, net debt, net debt to adjusted EBITDA (net leverage), and net debt to pro forma adjusted EBITDA (net pro forma leverage) are "non-GAAP financial measures" as defined in Regulation G of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are relevant and useful for investors as they illustrate our core operating performance, cash flows, and leverage unaffected by the impact of certain items that management does not believe are indicative of our ongoing and core operating activities. When reviewed in conjunction with our GAAP results and the accompanying reconciliations, we believe these non-GAAP financial measures provide additional information that is useful to gain an understanding of the factors and trends affecting our business and provide a means by which to compare our operating performance and leverage against that of other companies in the industries we compete. These non-GAAP measures should be considered as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the corresponding measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Our non-GAAP financial measures reflect adjustments for certain items including, but not limited to, the following: Costs associated with U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA") matters that we self-reported to the U.S. Department of Justice and other agencies, including investigation costs and settlement charges. Expenses associated with recent acquisition activity, including professional fees for legal, due diligence, and other acquisition activities, bridge financing fees, intangible asset amortization, integration costs, and compensation expense related to contingent consideration and retention agreements. Pension settlement charges associated with the settlement and termination of our frozen defined benefit pension plan. Legal judgments related to or impacted by the Russia / Ukraine conflict. / conflict. Contract termination/restructuring costs comprised of gains and losses that are recognized at the time of modifying, terminating, or restructuring certain customer and vendor contracts, including the loss recognized from the U.S. government exercising their termination for convenience in the first quarter of fiscal 2025 for our Mobility business's new-generation pallet contract. Losses related to our exit from our Indian joint venture, our Landing Gear Overhaul business, and our Composites manufacturing business, including legal fees for the performance guarantee associated with the Composites' A220 aircraft contract. Adjusted EBITDA is net income (loss) before interest income (expense), other income (expense), income taxes, depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, and items of an unusual nature including but not limited to business divestitures and acquisitions, FCPA investigation, settlement and remediation compliance costs, pension settlement charges, certain legal judgments, acquisition, integration, and amortization expenses from recent acquisition activity, and significant customer contract terminations. Pursuant to the requirements of Regulation G of the Exchange Act, we are providing the following tables that reconcile the above-mentioned non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures: Adjusted net income (In millions - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Net income (loss) $ (30.6) $ 23.8 $ (12.6) $ 23.2 FCPA settlement and investigation costs 59.2 2.6 64.2 3.7 Acquisition, integration, and amortization expenses 7.2 3.1 16.1 5.9 Loss (Gain) related to sale of business/joint venture, net 0.5 0.9 (0.8) 1.6 Russian bankruptcy court judgment 11.2 Contract termination costs 3.2 Pension settlement charge 26.7 Tax effect on adjustments (a) (4.0) (1.6) (7.4) (16.2) Adjusted net income $ 32.3 $ 28.8 $ 62.7 $ 56.1 (a) Calculation uses estimated statutory tax rates on non-GAAP adjustments except for the impact of the non-deductible portion of the FCPA settlement charge and the tax effect of the pension settlement charge, which includes income taxes previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ (0.87) $ 0.67 $ (0.36) $ 0.65 FCPA settlement and investigation costs 1.67 0.08 1.81 0.10 Acquisition, integration, and amortization expenses 0.20 0.09 0.45 0.17 Loss (Gain) related to sale of business/joint venture, net 0.01 0.02 (0.02) 0.04 Russian bankruptcy court judgment 0.32 Contract termination costs 0.09 Pension settlement charge 0.76 Tax effect on adjustments (a) (0.11) (0.05) (0.21) (0.46) Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 0.90 $ 0.81 $ 1.76 $ 1.58 (a) Calculation uses estimated statutory tax rates on non-GAAP adjustments except for the impact of the non-deductible portion of the FCPA settlement charge and the tax effect of the pension settlement charge, which includes income taxes previously recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Adjusted operating margin (In millions - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, 2024 August 31, 2024 November 30, 2023 Sales $ 686.1 $ 661.7 $ 545.4 Contract termination costs (9.5) Adjusted sales $ 686.1 $ 652.2 $ 545.4 Operating income (loss) $ (2.3) $ 43.4 $ 38.3 FCPA settlement and investigation costs 59.2 5.0 2.6 Acquisition, integration, and amortization expenses 7.2 9.0 3.1 Contract termination costs 3.2 Gain related to sale of joint venture (0.7) (1.4) Adjusted operating income $ 63.4 $ 59.2 $ 44.0 Adjusted operating margin 9.2 % 9.1 % 8.1 % Adjusted cash provided by (used in) operating activities (In millions - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 22.0 $ 17.4 $ 3.4 $ (1.3) Amounts outstanding on accounts receivable financing program: Beginning of period 29.0 13.7 13.7 12.8 End of period (23.9) (13.7) (23.9) (13.7) Adjusted cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ 27.1 $ 17.4 $ (6.8) $ (2.2) Adjusted EBITDA (In millions - unaudited) Three months ended November 30, Six months ended November 30, Year ended May 31, 2024 2023 2024 2023 2024 Net income (loss) $(30.6) $23.8 $ (12.6) $ 23.2 $ 46.3 Income tax expense 8.1 7.9 15.0 1.0 12.0 Other expense, net 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.4 Interest expense, net 18.8 5.6 37.1 11.0 41.0 Depreciation and amortization 14.0 8.7 27.5 17.1 41.2 FCPA settlement and investigation costs 59.2 2.6 64.2 3.7 10.5 Loss (Gain) related to sale of business/joint venture, net 0.5 0.9 (0.8) 1.6 2.8 Russian bankruptcy court judgment 11.2 11.2 Acquisition and integration expenses 3.2 2.1 8.2 3.9 29.7 Contract termination/restructuring costs and loss provisions, net 3.2 4.8 Pension settlement charge 26.7 26.7 Severance charges 0.5 Stock-based compensation 5.0 3.6 10.0 7.9 15.3 Adjusted EBITDA $ 78.4 $ 55.3 $ 152.1 $ 107.4 $ 242.4 Net debt (In millions - unaudited) November 30, 2024 November 30, 2023 Total debt $997.0 $277.0 Less: Cash and cash equivalents (61.7) (65.1) Net debt $935.3 $211.9 Net debt to adjusted EBITDA (In millions - unaudited) Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended May 31, 2024 $ 242.4 Less: Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended November 30, 2023 (107.4) Plus: Adjusted EBITDA for the six months ended November 30, 2024 152.1 Adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended November 30, 2024 $ 287.1 Net debt at November 30, 2024 $ 935.3 Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA 3.26 Net debt to pro forma adjusted EBITDA (In millions - unaudited) AAR CORP. adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended November 30, 2024 $ 287.1 Plus: Product Support adjusted EBITDA for the three months ended February 29, 2024 7.7 Pro forma adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended November 30, 2024 $ 294.8 AAR CORP. net debt at November 30, 2024 $ 935.3 Net debt to pro forma adjusted EBITDA 3.17 SOURCE AAR CORP. A robust, adaptable software solution that gives engineers full control over test architectures, supporting both immediate and future needs of data-driven testing. VERONA, Wis., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ACS introduces Acselerant, a customizable and scalable real-time control system software. Available as an open-source platform starting January 9, Acselerant empowers companies to design and evolve their test system architecture to align with their specific priorities and timelines. ACS Refined and used by ACS engineers for nearly a decade to solve complex industrial testing challenges, Acselerant fills critical gaps in existing test system architectures. With its modular, open framework for real-time control and data acquisition, test and lab engineers can adapt quickly to developing technical needs, reduce long-term development costs, and maintain complete control in their test system design and implementation. "Acselerant represents our commitment to empowering engineers with the tools to transform technical challenges into competitive advantages," says ACS President Scott Hoselton. "For nearly a decade, we've been refining this software across automotive, aerospace, and other complex industrial environments, and now we're giving companies the ability to accelerate their innovation without being constrained by traditional testing limitations." Acselerant at Work With a focus on precision and future adaptability, the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Engine Research Center (UW-ERC) engaged ACS to build a high-altitude engine test cell that could integrate with existing equipment. Using Acselerant, ACS engineers delivered a system with precise real-time control over critical conditions like temperature, pressure, and humidity, and that enables the university to expand its testing capabilities to pursue new research opportunities. "This project demonstrates how Acselerant bridges the gap between standard functionality and the critical customizations needed to achieve all test system goals," says ACS Software Development Manager Roy Krans. "Unlike closed systems that force compromises, Acselerant enables labs to fully define their workflows, extend capabilities, and handle increasingly complex testing needs. Its modular design ensures precise real-time control and seamless scaling to support both current and future requirements." This flexibility is exemplified in core Acselerant features that address common gaps in test environments, including: Dynamic State Control: Enables seamless responses to real-time logic, events, or alarms. Enables seamless responses to real-time logic, events, or alarms. Custom Calculations: Streamlines execution for complex, application-specific computations. Streamlines execution for complex, application-specific computations. Real-Time Test Control: Supports advanced test processes and customizable, high-fidelity data logging. Acselerant users can repurpose existing framework modules and data acquisition engines to build new test systems quickly, helping them become more responsive and competitive. Explore how Acselerant empowers companies to take full control over their testing capabilities at https://www.acscm.com/services/acselerant-software. About ACS: ACS designs, engineers, and builds innovative equipment, machines, controls, and facilities for industry leaders in markets including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. We are a systems integrator, helping companies maximize their facilities' efficiency with systems designed and engineered to work together. We combine our knowledge of building design and construction with expertise and understanding of equipment, R&D and production test, process systems, automation, data acquisition, and controls for industry leaders who require high-performance systems. ACS is based in Verona, Wisconsin, with a regional office in Troy, Michigan, and serves customers across North America and around the world. For more information, visit www.acscm.com. Contact: Amanda Donohue, Marketing Manager ACS [email protected] (608) 663-1247 SOURCE ACS CHILLICOTHE, Ohio, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Adena Health has been recognized as a Best-in-Class Employer in Gallagher's 2024 U.S. Benefits Strategy & Benchmarking Survey. This recognition underscores Adena's excellence in implementing effective strategies for managing people, benefits and human resources programs. "Adena Health is proud to invest in our caregiver experience, providing outstanding benefits options, competitive compensation, and abundant career development opportunities to our employees," said Heather Sprague, PHR, SHRM-CP, Adena chief human resources officer. "When our employees thrive, it is not only our organization that benefits, but all of the communities we serve as well." Adena was selected for its comprehensive approach to strategically investing in benefits, compensation, and the employee experience all aimed at supporting the health, financial confidence, and career growth of its employees while maintaining a sustainable cost structure. Gallagher's Best-in-Class Employer designation helps current and prospective employees understand and appreciate an organization's workplace culture and people strategy, which are crucial differentiators in today's competitive labor market. As a U.S. Best-in-Class Employer, Adena earned points based on its performance in several key areas: Planning horizons for the benefits and compensation strategies Extent of the well-being strategy Turnover rate for full-time equivalents Completion of a workforce engagement survey Use of an HR technology strategy and its level of sophistication Difference in health care costs over the prior year "Adena Health recognizes the crucial link between people's well-being and organizational success," said William F. Ziebell, CEO of Gallagher's Benefits & HR Consulting Division. "When employees enjoy their work, appreciate their benefits and feel connected, the organization thrives boosting positivity, retention, performance, and overall prosperity. That proactive people strategy helps make Adena a Best-in-Class Employer." Explore a new health career full of possibilities, visit Adena.org/careers to view all current job openings at Adena Health and apply today. Adena Health Adena Health is an independent, not-for-profit and locally governed health care organization delivering on its mission, "called to serve our communities," for more than 125 years. A regional economic catalyst, Adena Health is composed of more than 4,200 employees including more than 200 physicians and 150 advanced practice providers. With hospitals containing a total of 341 beds, regional health centers, emergency and urgent care services, and primary and specialty care practices, Adena Health serves more than 400,000 residents across nine counties in south central and southern Ohio through its network of more than 40 locations. Its hospitals include the 266-bed Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe and three 25-bed critical access hospitalsAdena Fayette Medical Center in Washington Court House; Adena Greenfield Medical Center in Greenfield; and Adena Pike Medical Center in Waverly. Adena Health specialty services include orthopedics and sports medicine, heart and vascular care, pediatric and women's health, and oncology services. SOURCE Adena Health SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpha Aesthetics Partners, a leader in the medical aesthetics industry and a portfolio company of the Thurston Group, is pleased to announce its recent strategic partnership with Inbloom Health + Medispa, a distinguished Medical Spa located in Londonderry, New Hampshire, led by renowned naturopathic doctor, Dr. Tanya Lawson. ALPHA AESTHETICS PARTNERS ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH INBLOOM HEALTH + MEDISPA Since 2006, Dr. Lawson has specialized in integrating naturopathic principles with cutting-edge aesthetic treatments, including injectables and laser therapies, to enhance natural beauty. Her holistic approach focuses on personalized treatments that improve skin health and overall wellness, making Inbloom a leader in innovative aesthetic solutions in the region. John Wheeler, CEO of Alpha Aesthetics Partners, commented on the partnership, stating, "Inbloom Health + Medispa under Dr. Lawson's leadership is an exemplary addition to our network. Her unique approach to aesthetics, which combines detailed patient care with advanced treatments, aligns perfectly with our mission at Alpha Aesthetics Partners. We are excited to support Inbloom in bringing these specialized services to a wider audience." Dr. Tanya Lawson expressed her enthusiasm for this new partnership, saying, "This partnership with Alpha Aesthetics Partners is a transformative milestone for Inbloom Health + Medispa. It enables us to enhance our service offerings and reach a broader patient base with our distinctive aesthetic treatments. I am eager to see how our shared values and resources will elevate the patient experience." TUSK Practice Sales, a healthcare-focused M&A advisor, provided guidance to Inbloom Health + Medispa in its partnership with Alpha Aesthetics Partners. About Inbloom Health + Medispa: Inbloom Health + Medispa, located in Londonderry, NH, specializes in personalized, naturopathic-based aesthetic treatments that address both aesthetic concerns and overall wellness. Under Dr. Tanya Lawson's guidance, the Medical Spa is known for its commitment to high-quality, individualized care and achieving excellent patient outcomes. About Alpha Aesthetics Partners: Founded in 2023, Alpha Aesthetics Partners aims to advance the medical aesthetics industry through best-in-class partner support and clinical training. With a vision to build the best operating and biggest network of medical aesthetics partners in the world, Alpha Aesthetics Partners focuses on making medical spa ownership simpler and more collaborative, allowing partners to concentrate on providing world-class patient care. The company is a portfolio company of Thurston Group, with a rapidly growing presence across 23 locations in 9 states. About Thurston Group: Thurston Group is a private equity firm that focuses on building industry-leading companies in the healthcare services sector. Founded by its Chairman and CEO Patrick J. Haynes III in 1986, Thurston Group has returned over $4 billion of invested capital in its 38-year history. Thurston has an extensive track record of partnering with physicians and building fast-growing businesses, including Smile Doctors, US Endodontics Partners, US Oral Surgery Management, SGA Dental Partners, US Orthopedic Partners, Gen4 Dental Partners, ARC Health, Options Medical Weight Loss, Alpha Aesthetics Partners, and Modis Dental Partners, among others. Media Contact: Alpha Aesthetics Partners partnerwithalpha.com [email protected] SOURCE Alpha Aesthetics Partners NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The global alternative credentials market for higher education size is estimated to grow by USD 1.84 billion from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.3% during the forecast period. Widening skills gap is driving market growth, with a trend towards rise in non-traditional offerings. However, threat from traditional degree program providers poses a challenge. Key market players include 2U Inc., Bisk Ventures, Carroll Community College Foundation Inc., City and Guilds Group, Coursera Inc., Credly Inc., JPMorgan Chase and Co., New York State Education Department, NIIT Ltd., NorthEastern University, Pearson Plc, Purdue University Global, Simplilearn, Strategic Education Inc., Temple University, Udacity Inc., Udemy Inc., University of Michigan, University Professional and Continuing Education Association, and XuetangX. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Alternative Credentials Market For Higher Education 2025-2029 Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Alternative Credentials Market For Higher Education Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2024 Historic period 2019 - 2023 Forecast period 2025-2029 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 15.3% Market growth 2025-2029 USD 1837.3 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 13.3 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 51% Key countries US, Germany, UK, China, Canada, France, Italy, India, Japan, and South Korea Key companies profiled 2U Inc., Bisk Ventures, Carroll Community College Foundation Inc., City and Guilds Group, Coursera Inc., Credly Inc., JPMorgan Chase and Co., New York State Education Department, NIIT Ltd., NorthEastern University, Pearson Plc, Purdue University Global, Simplilearn, Strategic Education Inc., Temple University, Udacity Inc., Udemy Inc., University of Michigan, University Professional and Continuing Education Association, and XuetangX Market Driver Alternative credentials, such as digital badges and micro-credentials, are gaining popularity in the higher education landscape. These non-traditional credentials validate and attest to specific skills and competencies, providing flexible learning options for adult learners. With flexible timespans and various formats like online, hybrid, and customized programs, these credentials cater to the demands of the workforce and professional learning. Employers value these credentials for their portability, transferability, and practical value in addressing skill gaps and career advancement. Tech companies like TechCred and Microsoft are leading the way in this digital transformation, offering credit-bearing and non-credit stackable credentials. Professionals in technology jobs can upskill and reskill through these innovative education opportunities, ensuring relevance in a knowledge-based economy. Post-secondary institutions are responding to the Great Resignation and employer needs by offering flexible pathways and revenue growth through alternative credentials. These credentials provide rigorous learning outcomes and are recognized by employers, bridging the learning gap and providing accessibility and flexibility for non-matriculated students. With blockchain technology and machine learning, the verification and transferability of these credentials are secure and efficient. In summary, alternative credentials offer practical value, addressing skill shortages and career development in the digital age. Employers, professionals, and learners alike benefit from these flexible, accessible, and relevant educational opportunities. The alternative credentials market in higher education is experiencing significant growth. This market includes graduate and undergraduate certificate programs, training courses, continuing education units, and micro-credentialing, which are non-traditional offerings gaining popularity among learners. These programs are linked to an alternative credentialing system and are accessible through channels different from those providing traditional degrees. Providers of these courses include baccalaureate colleges, universities, community colleges, and doctorate-granting universities, operating in both public and private sectors. The ease of creating non-credit programs without following regulatory mandates enables faster program development compared to traditional degree programs. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges Alternative credentials, such as digital badges and micro-credentials, are revolutionizing higher education by offering flexible, skill-focused learning options for professionals and adult learners. These non-traditional credentials validate attained skills and competencies, attesting to the learner's mastery of career-oriented skills. They come with flexible timespans, allowing learners to upskill at their own pace, and are available through online, hybrid, and customized programs. Employers value these credentials for their relevance to workforce demands and portability across industries. Stackable credentials and micro-credentials offer a flexible pathway for learners to build a career, with rigorous learning outcomes and digital badges for completion. TechCred, a type of industry-recognized micro-credit, bridges the skills gap and provides employment opportunities in technology fields. Post-secondary institutions and educational organizations are embracing this digital transformation to meet the needs of the knowledge-based economy and the Great Resignation. By offering accessible, flexible, and practical value learning experiences, they cater to the learning gap and help professionals reskill for career advancement. Blockchain technology and machine learning are enhancing the security and customization of these alternative credentials, making them a valuable addition to the traditional degrees and certificates. The alternative credentials market in higher education is experiencing instability due to the increasing collaboration between education service providers and institutions offering hybrid programs and courses. These alternative credentials serve as a viable option for students, allowing them to choose only necessary courses and manage their budgets effectively. However, this market faces competition from traditional degree programs. Universities are enhancing their offerings through evolving learning methodologies and digitalization, making them a formidable competitor. Despite this challenge, the flexibility and affordability of alternative credentials make them an attractive choice for many students. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This alternative credentials market for higher education report extensively covers market segmentation by Product 1.1 Non-credit training courses 1.2 Non-credit certificate programs 1.3 Digital badges 1.4 Competency-based education 1.5 Boot camps Type 2.1 Online 2.2 Blended 2.3 Face to face Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Non-credit training courses- Non-credit training courses are educational programs that provide specific skills and knowledge in various fields without granting academic credit. These courses, which are increasingly popular, are designed to help students meet industry requirements and stay competitive in the job market. Cengage Learning's ed2go offers non-credit courses in partnership with educational institutions and organizations. Coding languages, web development, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence/machine learning are among the most sought-after courses due to technological advancements. Participants receive certificates upon completion and passing assessments by standard-setting organizations or third parties. Mentors facilitate learning through course materials and activities. Carroll Community College, based in the US, offers non-credit courses in hospitality, business, health and fitness, and computer applications. In-demand fields include healthcare, with courses on medical coding, billing, administration, and specialized skills. Entrepreneurship, business development, finance fundamentals, and strategic planning courses cater to those starting businesses or advancing careers. The continuous growth of industries and the need for specialized skills are expected to fuel the expansion of the non-credit training courses segment in the global alternative credentials market for higher education. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis The Alternative Credentials Market for Higher Education refers to the growing trend of offering flexible, skills-based credentials that validate attainment of specific competencies and knowledge areas. These credentials, which include certificates, microcredentials, digital badges, and stackable credentials, offer adult learners the opportunity for professional learning and lifelong education, with flexible timespans and various delivery methods such as online, hybrid, and on-site. The market caters to the demands of the workforce for continuous professional development and continuing education, with both credit-bearing and non-credit options. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards and is often tech-enabled for portability and transferability. Accreditation ensures the quality and value of these credentials, making them valuable additions to a learner's professional profile. Market Research Overview Alternative credentials, also known as non-traditional credentials, offer flexible and innovative educational opportunities for learners seeking to acquire relevant skills and knowledge in various fields. These credentials, which include digital badges, micro-credentials, and stackable credentials, validate skills and competencies gained through professional learning, lifelong learning, online learning, hybrid learning, and other flexible pathways. Unlike traditional degrees, alternative credentials have flexible timespans, are portable and transferable, and cater to the needs of adult learners and non-matriculated students. They offer rigorous learning outcomes and are designed to address workforce demands, skill gaps, and career advancement. With the increasing digitization of education and the growing importance of technology jobs, professionals can now access a wide range of alternative credentials that provide practical value and workplace relevance. These credentials are essential for upskilling and reskilling in a knowledge-based economy, where employability and employability are key drivers of revenue growth for post-secondary institutions. The use of technology, such as blockchain and machine learning, ensures the portability, transferability, and security of these credentials. Ultimately, alternative credentials offer accessible, flexible, and practical educational paths for learners to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's labor markets and meet the demands of the Great Resignation. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Product Non-credit Training Courses Non-credit Certificate Programs Digital Badges Competency-based Education Boot Camps Type Online Blended Face To Face Geography North America Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio Appotronics ALPD-based projection solutions can now be combined with Ceres' HoloFlekt holographic-enabled display technology to display information in bright, large and non-distractive formats on any glass surface to enhance safety, HMI and UX LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Appotronics, a leader in laser display industry, today announced the signing of an agreement with Ceres Holographics, a pioneer in the development of holographic-enabled transparent displays. The partnership aims to combine their technologies for in-car display solutions, including driver and passenger transparent heads-up display (HUDs). A demonstration of the combined HUD system has been shown at CES 2025 at Appotronics demo suite, located at the Ren Boardroom, 2nd floor, Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel, from January 7 to 10, 2025. Through this partnership, Appotronics will provide Ceres and its other holographic windshield partners with another key link in the supply chain required to deliver complete systems to its expanding base of OEM customers. Together the extended partnership could provide more intuitive, flexible and distraction-free high resolution display solutions for next generation vehicles. The partnership expands the benefits of Appotronics' high-performance ALPD (Advanced Laser Phosphor Display) projection technology, and Ceres' design capability as well as its HoloFlext manufacturing technology, to meet the size, cost, reliability and viewability requirements of the most innovative automotive OEMs. Together, the two compaines is expected to accelerate the development and widespread adoption of transparent HUD technology, enhancing safty and delivering a more intelligent driving experience. About Ceres Holographics Headquartered in Livingston, Scotland, Ceres Holographics specializes in the design, digital mastering and replication of next-generation, thin-film Holographic Optical Elements (HOEs) for new transparent display (TD) and augmented reality applications. With extensive expertise in photonic, optical systems and holographic photopolymer films, Ceres Holographics empowers organizations to create immersive visual experiences that enhance product functionality and performance for mass-market applications in automotive, transportation, aerospace and wearable technology. Ceres HoloFlekt film technology can transform any windscreen or other glass structure into an ultra-bright, full color display. In car windshields it can realize large format pillar-to-pillar HUDs. About Appotronics Appotronics is a leading laser display technology enterprise in the world, one of the first companies to list on the SSE STAR Market. The company has independently invented ALPD semiconductor laser light source technology that has become the go-to technology internationally. Appotronics' automotive optics is based on ALPD technology. The intelligent light engine offers key advantages for auto applications, such as its ultra-compact size, high efficiency, high brightness and high reliability, which makes ALPD the most suitable technology for display and illumination in automotive applications. With a sophisticated development and production managment system compliant with automotive industry standards such as IATF16949, VDA6.3 and OSB+, Appotronics has become an integral part of the supply chains of leading automotive manufacturers both domestically and internationally. Appotronics focuses on building a sustainable ecosystem within the industry, actively collaborating with partners acorss the supply chain to deliver a more intuitive and comfortable human-vehicle interaction for end users. Currently, Appotronics Automotive BU has developed the first auto-certified laser light engines in the industry in three main application areas: intelligent digital headlights, immersive cockpit display and HUDs. These innovations have been depolyed in three launched models: AITO M9, STELATO S9 and smart #5. SOURCE Appotronics Corporation Ltd. NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Report on how AI is redefining market landscape - The global automotive crash test dummies market size is estimated to grow by USD 17.2 million from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of almost 2.9% during the forecast period. Increasing need for crash and safety testing is driving market growth, with a trend towards moving dummies for pedestrian protection system. However, increasing popularity of crash test simulators poses a challenge. Key market players include 4a technology GmbH, AB Dynamics plc, Autoliv Inc., DEKRA SE, Dewesoft d.o.o., Encocam Ltd., Exponent Inc., FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology Inc., GESAC Inc. Co., Humanetics Innovative Solutions Inc., JASTI Co. Ltd., Kistler Group, Mazda Motor Corp., Plascore Inc., Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Siemens AG, TransDigm Group Inc., XSENSOR Technology Corp., and ZF Friedrichshafen AG. Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Automotive Crash Test Dummies Market 2025-2029 Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Automotive Crash Test Dummies Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2024 Historic period 2019 - 2023 Forecast period 2025-2029 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 2.9% Market growth 2025-2029 USD 17.2 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 2.7 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 44% Key countries US, UK, Germany, Japan, China, France, Canada, Italy, India, and Hong Kong Key companies profiled 4a technology GmbH, AB Dynamics plc, Autoliv Inc., DEKRA SE, Dewesoft d.o.o., Encocam Ltd., Exponent Inc., FUTEK Advanced Sensor Technology Inc., GESAC Inc. Co., Humanetics Innovative Solutions Inc., JASTI Co. Ltd., Kistler Group, Mazda Motor Corp., Plascore Inc., Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Siemens AG, TransDigm Group Inc., XSENSOR Technology Corp., and ZF Friedrichshafen AG Market Driver Crash test dummies, also known as human surrogate models, play a crucial role in evaluating vehicle safety. They simulate the biomechanical response of the human body during collisions, helping engineers assess injury risk in various crash scenarios. Vehicle safety systems, including crumple zones, airbags, and seat belts, are tested using these life-sized figurines. Advanced technologies like sensor integration, biofidelic sensors, and data acquisition systems are used to analyze the impact on the human body during vehicle impacts. Reusability and sustainability are key considerations, with some dummies made from biodegradable materials. Crashworthiness testing covers frontal, side, and rear-end collisions, as well as pedestrian safety testing. Aerospace occupant protection technologies are also applied to improve safety. Automotive manufacturers and testing facilities use these insights to design safer vehicles, reducing the risk of injury and road fatalities. Evolving vehicle designs, including those for autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles, require enhanced safety standards. Demographics and physiological characteristics influence safety testing procedures, with child dummies and dummies representing various physical conditions used in testing. Safety mechanisms, such as seatbelts and safety standards, continue to evolve to address the needs of diverse populations and vehicle technologies. The automotive crash test dummies market has seen significant growth due to increasing safety regulations. Institutions conduct safety tests in facilities to rate vehicles based on their performance in various crash scenarios. With road traffic deaths among pedestrians accounting for over 20% in many countries, including the US, safety standards have evolved. In 2016, both Euro NCAP and NHTSA included pedestrian protection in their safety ratings, requiring crash tests with pedestrian dummies. Initially, these dummies were stationary, but for more accurate data, moving dummies are now used. This development reflects the industry's commitment to improving vehicle safety for all road users. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges Crash test dummies, also known as human surrogate models, play a crucial role in assessing the biomechanical response of vehicles during collisions. These life-sized figurines help engineers evaluate vehicle safety systems such as crumple zones, airbags, and seat belts under various crash scenarios. The challenge lies in replicating the human body's injury risk and structural integrity during these tests. Advanced technologies like biofidelic sensors, data acquisition systems, and sensor integration are used to enhance safety testing. Automotive manufacturers face challenges in testing for different crash scenarios, including frontal, side, and rear-end collisions, as well as pedestrian safety testing. With evolving vehicle designs, such as autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs), enhanced safety standards are required. Safety mechanisms like seatbelts and airbags must be effective for all physical conditions and demographics. Crashworthiness testing is essential to minimize the risk of injury and save lives. Testing procedures must reflect real-world scenarios, considering various vehicle technologies and designs. Safety standards continue to evolve, requiring continuous innovation and sustainability, including the use of biodegradable materials and reusability. Aerospace occupant protection and pedestrian safety testing are also important areas of focus. Crash test dummies, a crucial safety feature in the automotive industry since 1949, have undergone significant technological advancements. The advent of virtual crash testing in the 1990s, following years of development from 1978, led to a decrease in the demand for physical dummies. For instance, Ford Motor Company previously tested around 130 cars under each variant using physical dummies. However, with the implementation of virtual testing methods, the number of cars required for testing reduced to approximately 45-50, resulting in substantial cost savings. Despite these advancements, the need for customization in crash test dummies presents a challenge for manufacturers in terms of cost. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This automotive crash test dummies market report extensively covers market segmentation by Product 1.1 Male crash test dummy 1.2 Female crash test dummy 1.3 Child crash test dummy Application 2.1 Passenger vehicle 2.2 Commercial vehicle Geography 3.1 Europe 3.2 North America 3.3 APAC 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Male crash test dummy- The automotive crash testing industry adopted the concept from military vehicle and aircraft testing, leading to the predominant use of male crash test dummies. With the rising global average male weight, manufacturers like Humanetics create various male dummies, differing in body structures. These dummies serve numerous crash tests: frontal, side-impact, rear-impact, rollover, and pedestrian impact. Each dummy can be utilized in multiple tests. Due to their frequent usage, the demand for new male crash test dummies is high as they replace older ones. As the number of crash tests increases, the market for automotive crash test dummies is anticipated to expand significantly during the forecast period. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis Crash test dummies, also known as human surrogate models, are essential tools used in the automotive industry to evaluate the biomechanical response of vehicles during collisions. These life-sized figurines are designed to replicate the human body's response to various crash scenarios, allowing engineers to assess injury risk and improve vehicle safety systems. Crashworthiness testing involves the use of crash test dummies to evaluate a vehicle's structural integrity during vehicle impacts. This testing helps automakers design and integrate effective safety features such as crumple zones, airbags, and seat belts. Biomechanical response data obtained from crash test dummies is crucial for understanding the impact forces on the human body during collisions. This information helps engineers design vehicles that offer superior protection to vehicle occupants and pedestrians. Crash test dummies come in various sizes and configurations, including child dummies and pedestrian safety testing dummies. Sensors, including accelerometers, are integrated into the dummies to record data during collisions, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of vehicle safety features. Aerospace occupant protection also utilizes anthropomorphic models to assess the biomechanical response of passengers during aircraft accidents. The use of crash test dummies in safety testing is essential for ensuring the safety of automobiles and reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities during vehicle collisions. Market Research Overview Crash test dummies, also known as human surrogate models, are essential tools used in vehicle safety testing. These life-sized figurines replicate the biomechanical response of a human body during vehicle impacts. The data acquired from crash tests help engineers evaluate the effectiveness of vehicle safety systems such as crumple zones, airbags, and seat belts in reducing injury risk. Crash scenarios include frontal, side, and rear-end collisions, as well as pedestrian safety testing. Advanced technologies like biofidelic sensors, data acquisition systems, and sensor integration are used to enhance the accuracy and reusability of crash test dummies. The evolving vehicle designs, including autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs), require continuous advancements in safety testing and enhanced safety standards to address potential injuries and reduce road fatalities. Demographics and physiological characteristics also play a role in the development of crash test dummies to ensure safety for all passengers, including children and those with specific physical conditions. Vehicle technologies and designs continue to evolve, requiring ongoing safety testing to meet evolving safety standards and real-world scenarios. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Product Male Crash Test Dummy Female Crash Test Dummy Child Crash Test Dummy Application Passenger Vehicle Commercial Vehicle Geography Europe North America APAC South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The local budget revenues of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (NAR) exceeded 250 million manats last year, and more than 50 percent of the budget expenditures were fulfilled at the expense of local revenues, Minister of Finance of NAR Hasan Ismayilov told reporters, Trend reports. He observed that the fiscal year 2024 demonstrated significant achievements in the realm of socio-economic reforms implemented within the NAR, alongside notable advancements in budgetary and financial policy frameworks. Ismayilov asserts that substantial measures have been implemented to streamline fiscal outlays and enhance income streams in the formulation of the NAR budget during the preceding timeframe. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America Corporation announced today that it will redeem on January 23, 2025, all $2,000,000,000 principal amount outstanding of its 3.366% Fixed/Floating Rate Senior Notes, due January 2026 (CUSIP No. 06051GGZ6) (the "Notes"), at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date of January 23, 2025. Interest on the Notes will cease to accrue on the redemption date. Payment of the redemption price for the Notes will be made through the facilities of The Depository Trust Company. The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. is the trustee and paying agent for the Notes. Bank of America Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,700 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 58 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Forward-Looking Statements Certain information contained in this news release may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are not guarantees of future results or performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions difficult to predict or beyond our control. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement and should consider the uncertainties and risks discussed under Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in any of our subsequent Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that arise after the date the forward-looking statement was made. For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts. www.bankofamerica.com Investors May Contact: Lee McEntire, Bank of America Phone: 1.980.388.6780 [email protected] Jonathan G. Blum, Bank of America (Fixed Income) Phone: 1.212.449.3112 [email protected] Reporters May Contact: Jocelyn Seidenfeld, Bank of America Phone: 1.646.743.3356 [email protected] SOURCE Bank of America Corporation Leading Rare Wine Retailer Benchmark Wine Announces Organizational Consolidation with Foundational Retailer Wine Spectrum NAPA, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Benchmark Wine Group , the largest rare wine retailer in the US, announced today that it has acquired Wine Spectrum, Inc. a pioneering Sonoma-based wine retailer. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in the rare wine retail sector, combining the strengths of two industry leaders to better serve collectors, enthusiasts, and trade customers nationwide. David Parker, Owner and CEO of Benchmark Wine Group, expressed excitement about the acquisition: "When Glenn Siegel, founder and owner of Wine Spectrum, proposed combining our businesses, it was immediately clear how complementary our resources and approaches were. By consolidating, we're creating a powerhouse of rare wine expertise and customer-focused services. Together, we'll expand product access, enhance operational efficiencies, and provide unparalleled service to our clients." Wine Spectrum, with over 30 years of experience in high-touch sales and a loyal customer base, brings a strong reputation for sourcing and delivering top-tier new-release wines. Benchmark Wine Group contributes its extensive inventory of rare and back-vintage wines, industry-leading technology, and proven customer service model. "Wine Spectrum's legacy of personal, relationship-driven sales aligns perfectly with Benchmark's process-oriented and high-energy management style," said Glenn Siegel, President of Wine Spectrum. "This consolidation allows Wine Spectrum to enhance its service offerings while staying true to our shared commitment to quality and customer satisfaction." Strategic Objectives and Benefits The consolidation will achieve the following: Expanded Product Access: Benchmark's inventory of rare and back-vintage wines will now be available to Wine Spectrum clients, while Benchmark clients gain access to Wine Spectrum's exclusive allocations and new releases. Benchmark's inventory of rare and back-vintage wines will now be available to Wine Spectrum clients, while Benchmark clients gain access to Wine Spectrum's exclusive allocations and new releases. Operational Synergies: Combining resources will reduce overhead, streamline logistics, and allow for shared expertise in inventory management and sourcing. Combining resources will reduce overhead, streamline logistics, and allow for shared expertise in inventory management and sourcing. Enhanced Customer Engagement: Benchmark's renowned Provenance Guarantee will extend to all products sold under this partnership, providing peace of mind for collectors. Benchmark's renowned Provenance Guarantee will extend to all products sold under this partnership, providing peace of mind for collectors. Broader Market Reach: By joining forces, the companies will strengthen their presence in California , New York , Arizona , and Florida , while exploring new opportunities in digital sales and client outreach. Jennifer Adams, General Manager of Wine Spectrum, will lead this effort with assistance from the Benchmark senior management team. "This consolidation is about more than combining operations; it's about elevating the fine wine experience for our customers. Both companies share a commitment to excellence, and I'm confident this partnership will set a new standard in the industry." Seamless Integration and Future Growth Benchmark and Wine Spectrum are committed to a smooth transition for employees, customers, and partners. Joint branding initiatives have already begun, including the representation of wines from private collections, and special exclusive offerings directly from top producers such as Sean Thackrey and Helianthus from Futo Estate. By 2025, a unified online platform will allow clients to view and purchase inventory from both companies seamlessly. David Parker added: "The fine wine market is evolving, and strategic consolidations like this ensure we remain at the forefront. By leveraging each other's strengths, we're creating an unmatched resource for collectors and wine enthusiasts worldwide." About Wine Spectrum Founded in 1990, the Wine Spectrum was created to offer the greatest wines in the world to customers nationwide. Wine Spectrum's focus is on creating meaningful, long-term relationships with customers who value their sourcing, educational, and fulfillment prowess. Utilizing modern technology along with a seasoned, knowledgeable and relationship-based human sales force, the company has been a major player in the wine industry for three decades. About Benchmark Wine Group Established in 2002, Benchmark Wine Group is a licensed importer, distributor and retailer in California, and the leading source of rare and back-vintage wine for wine retailers, restaurants and collectors around the world. Based in Napa Valley, it acquires the most sought-after wines from top producers, resellers and private individuals. Its affiliates Brentwood Wine Company dba Benchmark Wine and Spirits in Washington, DC and First Growth Technologies, Inc, publisher of The Wine Market Journal & Spirits Market Journal and their staff collectively draw on over a century of industry experience, and are dedicated to providing exceptional selection, provenance, pricing and service. SOURCE Benchmark Wine Group COLUMBIA, Md., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BLT, a leading provider of custom electronics engineering services, is proud to announce its selection as an awardee of the U.S. Navy's SeaPort Next Generation (SeaPort-NxG) contract vehicle. This prestigious Multiple Award Contract (MAC), indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract has a ceiling of $4 billion over a five-year period and is part of a larger vehicle of $50 billion over the next 5 years. BLT's selection for this contract reflects its significant past performance and proven expertise in supporting critical U.S. Navy programs. "We are truly honored to be selected as a prime for the SeaPort-NxG contract," said Ed McCauley, President of BLT. "This award underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional support to the U.S. Navy. Our history of successful collaboration with the Navy, delivering on time and on budget, has positioned us to contribute meaningfully to the mission. We look forward to continuing this tradition by providing high-quality engineering services." SeaPort-NxG task orders will allow BLT (NAICS Code 541330: Engineering Services) to deliver a broad spectrum of services, including engineering services, systems engineering, software development, and program management support. SeaPort-NxG serves as the Department of the Navy's premier vehicle for acquiring professional support services, streamlining procurement processes, and enhancing small business participation. BLT's inclusion in this program underscores its dedication to fostering innovation and supporting the Navy's mission areas and technical capabilities. About BLT BLT specializes in providing custom electronics engineering solutions to government, defense and commercial clients. With over 35 years of experience, BLT has earned a reputation for developing innovative, mission-critical systems and providing reliable services that enhance national security and defense capabilities. Operating from its headquarters in Columbia, MD, and its state-of-the-art Innovation Center in Melbourne, FL, BLT focuses on quality, precision, and cutting-edge technology. Its expertise spans custom electronics design, systems engineering, and program management, enabling the development of tailored solutions to meet the evolving challenges of the defense sector. Through its commitment to excellence and innovation, BLT continues to drive advancements that strengthen the operational readiness and technical superiority of the United States of America. For more information about BLT and its services, please visit www.bltinc.com. SOURCE BLT Inc $1.75M Grant Awarded to Support Glean Urodynamics System for Bladder Management in Wounded Veterans IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bright Uro, a medical device company with a mission to transform care for lower urinary tract symptoms through innovations in urodynamics, today announced a Translational Research Award of $1.75 million from the Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP), a Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program1, to support new product development and future innovations of the Glean Urodynamics System. Congress established the SCIRP in 2009 in part as a response to the high rates of spinal cord injury observed in warfighters returning home from duty. Up to 20% of all Americans living with an SCI are combat casualties and the Department of Veterans Affairs operates the largest single SCI care network in the United States2. The SCIRP Congressional program is intended to advance the medical treatment and care management of these wounded warfighters. More than 300,000 Americans are currently living with an SCI 79% are male and about 18,000 new cases are recorded annually3. Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (nLUTD) affects 80% of SCI patients within the first year after injury and requires daily management of bladder symptoms4. The Glean System's design enables data-driven bladder management, and this award will aid in the development of a device that will provide patients critical insight of bladder pressures and volumes over an extended period. "Bright Uro is proud to be recognized by SCIRP as a company deserving of support in our efforts to help wounded veterans with spinal cord injuries," said Derek Herrera, founder and CEO of Bright Uro and himself a retired Marine Raider who suffered an SCI in combat in Afghanistan. "Safe urinary management is a daily challenge for most paralyzed veterans. We have always believed that Glean could serve as a platform for managing bladder health and be immensely valuable to veterans in need, and to have that belief affirmed by SCIRP is deeply gratifying." About Bright Uro Based in Irvine, Calif., Bright Uro's mission is to transform the care of LUTD with its innovative technology that is poised to disrupt outdated urodynamics approaches. The Company's investigational Glean Urodynamics System is designed to enable wireless, catheter-free urodynamics monitoring, with the ultimate goal of improving patient comfort and clinical outcomes. For more information, visit www.brighturo.com. 1 This work was supported by The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense, in the amount of $1,749,515 through the Spinal Cord Injury Research Program (SCIRP) under Award Number HT9425-24-1-0675. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily endorsed by The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense. 2 SCIRP https://cdmrp.health.mil/scirp/ website accessed Dec 31, 2024 3 National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures. Birmingham, AL: University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2024. 4 Biomedicines. 2023 May 26;11(6):1539. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines11061539 SOURCE Bright Uro adMarketplace Earns Placements on Built In's Best Places to Work Lists NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Built In today announced that adMarketplace, the leading native search advertising provider, was honored in its 2025 Best Places To Work Awards. The annual awards program includes companies of all sizes, from startups to those in the enterprise, and honors both remote-first employers as well as companies in large tech markets across the U.S. Specifically, adMarketplace earned a place on the following lists: 50 Best Midsize Places to Work in Miami in 2025 in 2025 100 Best Places to Work in Miami in 2025 in 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in New York City in 2025 in 2025 100 Best Places to Work in New York City in 2025 in 2025 100 Best U.S. Midsize Companies to Work For in 2025 "This recognition from Built In is a testament to the winning culture we've worked hard to build," says Adam J. Epstein, Co-CEO and President of adMarketplace. "Guided by our core values collaboration, commitment, curiosity, competitiveness, and creative conflict adMarketplace's talented team delivers value and insights to search advertisers at the world's largest brands. As we look to grow in 2025, our focus continues to be creating an environment where each and every team member is inspired to shape the next generation of native search advertising." Built In determines the winners of Best Places to Work based on an algorithm, using company data about compensation and benefits. To reflect the benefits candidates are searching for more frequently on Built In, the program also weighs criteria like remote and flexible work opportunities, programs for DEI, and other people-first cultural offerings. "Being recognized as a Best Place to Work is a testament to these companies' commitment to building a workplace where individuals and innovation thrive," says Built In CEO and Founder, Maria Christopoulos Katris . "At Built In, we understand that great companies are powered by great teams, and this achievement showcases their dedication to fostering a culture of growth, inclusivity, and excellence. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor." About Built In Built In is the "always on" recruiting platform that reaches the tech professionals that other leading recruiting platforms don't. Designed to help companies hire expert tech talent, Built In continuously drives brand awareness with content. Monthly, millions of the industry's most in-demand global tech professionals visit our site to stay ahead of tech trends and news, learn skills to accelerate their careers, find the right job opportunities and get hired. Thousands of companies, from fast-growing startups to the largest enterprises rely on Built In. By putting their stories in front of our uniquely engaged audience, we help them hire otherwise hard-to-reach technical and expert talent. www.builtin.com About Built In's Best Places To Work Built In's annual Best Places to Work program honors companies with the best total rewards packages across the U.S. and in the following tech hubs: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington DC. Best Places to Work is distinct because its algorithm selects tech companies that build their offerings specifically around what tech professionals value in a workplace. https://employers.builtin.com/best-places-to-work About adMarketplace adMarketplace is the leader in native search advertising. For over two decades, adMarketplace has delivered relevant search advertising to consumers who skip the legacy search results page. The world's largest search advertisers drive measurably incremental results from adMarketplace's exclusive media opportunities across the internet's leading browsers, shopping apps, and editorial sites on the open web. adMarketplace's mission is to shape the consumer journey with relevant search ads and measure media value transparently to deliver performance at scale. Learn more about adMarketplace by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and Instagram . Contact: Haidi Kelly, SVP of Marketing [email protected] SOURCE adMarketplace Eastern Union Arranges $51.5 Million in Refinancing for Self-Storage Complex VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. and BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cohen Investment Group (CIG), a commercial real estate investment company based in Virginia Beach, VA, has refinanced its ownership of Castleton Commerce Center, a 470,618-net-rentable-square-foot self-storage and flex-storage complex at 2424 Castleton Commerce Way in Virginia Beach, VA. Based in Bethesda, MD, David Merkin is a senior managing director in Eastern Union's Mid-Atlantic Group. He recently secured a $51.5-million, fixed-rate refinancing package for Cohen Investment Group in support of its ownership of Castleton Commerce Center, a 470,618-net-rentable-square-foot self-storage and flex-storage complex in Virginia Beach, VA. Castleton Commerce Center is a 470,618-net-rentable-square-foot self-storage and flex-storage complex in Virginia Beach, VA. David Merkin of Eastern Union recently secured a $51.5-million, fixed-rate refinancing package for Cohen Investment Group, the property's owner. The owner had originally acquired the property in 2021 through a $58,150,000 bridge loan originated by Eastern Union. David Merkin of Eastern Union, one of the country's largest commercial real estate brokerage firms, secured a $51.5-million, fixed-rate refinancing package for Cohen Investment Group through a relationship with Bank of America. Based in Bethesda, MD, David Merkin is a senior managing director in Eastern Union's Mid-Atlantic Group. CIG had originally acquired the property in 2021 with the help of a $58,150,000 bridge loan originated by Eastern Union. Cohen Investment Group has acquired a total of 64 self-storage properties through 16 acquisitions within the asset class since 2020. Founded in 2013, the company has owned and operated more than 2,318,866 of rentable storage space, over 30 multifamily assets, and has had holdings in the office, student housing, and retail sectors. Cohen Investment Group describes the Virginia Beach property as "a unique asset with high historic occupancy, strong in-place revenue, and the ability to add value in a growing market." It contains roughly 142,843 square feet of self-storage units in addition to 327,775 square feet of warehouse storage. Overall, Castleton Commerce Center contains 409 storage units, 375 warehouse units, and 190 boat and RV parking units. "We generated operational efficiencies at Castleton Commerce Center by taking a hands-on approach to property management," said Hugh Cohen, president of Cohen Investment Group. "The site is now well positioned for the execution of a profitable exit plan in the coming years that will benefit our investors." "Eastern Union delivered competitive, fixed-rate financing enabling the client to continue to grow revenue substantially and exit at a high cap rate," said Mr. Merkin. "Cohen Investment Group's successful ownership of this asset is largely attributable to the firm's first-class asset management capabilities." CIG's strategic approach is to identify value-add opportunities with an emphasis on purchasing under-performing real estate assets below replacement cost. The company then brings in impactful and trusted third-party property management partners to maximize value while improving physical appearance and operational efficiency with the goal of growing net operating income and net cash flow for investors to levels above original projections. CIG then monitors market conditions to identify a timely disposition resulting in a positive capital event that delivers solid returns for investors. About Cohen Investment Group Founded in 2013, Cohen Investment Group (CIG) is a privately owned commercial real estate investment firm based in Virginia Beach, VA. CIG and its affiliated entities have transacted on over $1B in real estate since its founding. The company focuses on acquiring properties in primary, secondary and tertiary markets in the mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions, with a primary focus on multifamily and storage assets. CIG's team consists of highly skilled professionals with extensive backgrounds in acquisitions, asset management, accounting, property management, dispositions, analysis and reporting, leasing, sales, marketing and legal studies. For more information, visit www.coheninvestmentgrp.com. About Eastern Union Founded in 2001, Eastern Union is a national commercial real estate firm that provides both financing services and capital markets advisory services. It employs more than 90 real estate professionals and closes billions of dollars' worth of transactions annually. Eastern Union leverages its relationships with lenders and its marketplace knowledge to secure the best available rates and terms. The company's Mid-Atlantic Region office, led by Marc Tropp and David Merkin, is in Bethesda, MD. Eastern Union secures financing for transactions of all sizes across the United States. Transactions, which can include multi-state and multi-site portfolios, encompass conventional commercial mortgages, structured debt, healthcare, hospitality, manufactured home properties, single-family rentals, investment sales, and -- handled in conjunction with company affiliate Eastern Equity Advisors -- equity placement. For more information, visit www.easternunion.com. Media contact: Steve Vitoff Eastern Union 516 652 0785 [email protected] SOURCE Eastern Union Both industry leading brands to continue in the market operating under Coleto Brands umbrella GREENVILLE, S.C., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The new parent company name for the recently merged Kichler and Progress Lighting organization has been unveiled: Coleto Brands. This new corporate name is the latest in a series of steps the new organization has been making to bring these two iconic lighting companies together after each was acquired by Kingswood Capital in 2024. While both brands will operate as part of the same corporation, each will continue as independent brands in the market, building upon deep rooted strengths to complement one another. The Coleto Brands name was inspired by starling birds which come together to create mesmerizing patterns in the sky known as a murmuration. In a similar way, the brands within the Coleto Brands portfolio are distinct, yet move synchronously together to have a dynamic, positive impact on the lighting industry. "Since the opportunity arose to bring these two formidable brands together, we've been excited about the combined impact we can have for our customers, trade professionals, end consumers and employees," said Sean Veit, Coleto Brands CEO. "Both brands have rich legacies, strong industry relationships, exceptional product portfolios and recognized commitment to customer service with highly complementary strengths that will enable us to deliver more compelling solutions to the market." As part of the merger announced when the Kingswood Capital acquisition of Kichler Lighting closed in September 2024, the company has been working to align infrastructure and identify opportunities to streamline its operations to better support customers. A new Executive Leadership Team was the first step in this journey, bringing key leaders from both organizations together to define a consolidated path forward. After an extensive sales agency review, both brands will now be represented by a singular rep agency sales force with future capabilities to consolidate orders, invoices and shipments. Additionally, the Progress Lighting showroom in the Dallas Market Center has recently been refreshed, including the addition of a Kichler display area where a curated assortment of the brand's products will be installed for viewing during the January 2025 Lightovation industry tradeshow. The brands are also co-hosting a by-invitation-only customer event in Dallas during the show. In reflecting on the advancements made since the merger announcement, Coleto Brands Executive Chairman Vijay Shankar said, "I've been so impressed with how the newly combined team has come together in such a short time to begin realizing the potential this merger offers. The swift yet thoughtful approach the leadership team has taken is a testament to the high caliber talent and customer-centric cultures that existed in each organization and that will form the backbone for the new Coleto Brands going forward." Kingswood Capital Management acquired Progress Lighting in February 2024 from Hubbell Incorporated. Then in September 2024, they acquired Kichler Lighting from MASCO Corporation. ABOUT COLETO BRANDS Coleto Brands is a dynamic collective of brands united by a commitment to enhancing spaces through design and functionality. Headlined by its flagship brands, Kichler and Progress Lighting, Coleto Brands provides residential lighting fixtures across key categories, including interior and exterior decorative lighting, bath/vanity, architectural systems and downlights, ceiling fans and landscape. For more information, visit coletobrands.com. ABOUT KICHLER Kichler lighting strives to transform the home and workspace by developing fixtures that seamlessly combine style with purpose. With an extensive portfolio of leading products including lighting, landscape and ceiling fans and a commitment to providing services and project solutions, Kichler is the brand homeowners and professionals know and trust since 1938. Kichler products are available at independent showrooms, Lowe's, The Home Depot, electrical and landscape distributors and online. For more information, visit www.kichler.com. ABOUT PROGRESS LIGHTING Progress Lighting is a leading source of residential decorative lighting solutions with thousands of fixture designs to meet the needs of any project. With more than a century of lighting technology, leadership and engineering, Progress Lighting offers high quality lighting products and solutions that deliver aesthetic appeal, stellar performance, easy installation and value to the residential new construction and renovation & remodel end markets. For more information, visit www.progresslighting.com. ABOUT KINGSWOOD CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, LP Kingswood Capital Management, LP is a private investment firm primarily focused on investing in businesses in transition. In addition to access to capital, Kingswood brings relevant industry relationships and a broad network of internal and external operating resources that can strengthen the businesses it partners with and enhance value. Kingswood has extensive experience with complex transactions where it provides tailored solutions that balance the objectives of all constituents. For more information, please refer to the Kingswood website at www.kingswood-capital.com. SOURCE Coleto Brands NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Consolidated Edison, Inc. ("Con Edison") (NYSE: ED) executives will meet with investors at conferences in January 2025. A copy of Con Edison's investor presentation for these meetings can be found on the Presentations & Webcasts page of Con Edison's website (Select "For Investors" and then select "Presentation & Webcasts"). Consolidated Edison, Inc. is one of the nation's largest investor-owned energy-delivery companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues for year-end 2023 and $69 billion in assets as of September 30, 2024. The company provides a wide range of energy-related products and services to its customers through the following subsidiaries: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc., a regulated utility providing electric service in New York City and New York's Westchester County, gas service in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens and parts of Westchester, and steam service in Manhattan; Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., a regulated utility serving customers in a 1,300-square-mile area in southeastern New York State and northern New Jersey; and Con Edison Transmission, Inc., which falls primarily under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and manages, through joint ventures, both electric and gas assets while seeking to develop electric transmission projects that will bring clean, renewable electricity to customers, focusing on New York and the Northeast. SOURCE Consolidated Edison, Inc. CHICAGO , Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicor Gas' campaign for a state-record rate hike of about $308.6 millionwhich is closer to $325 million when including taxesis unjustified, and CUB will fight it. Illinois' largest gas utility has now asked for five brutal rate hikes in less than a decade, causing hardship for customers by increasing gas delivery charges by a staggering $724 million since 2018 and helping the utility's parent company roll in outrageous profits. Heat is a human necessity, not a profit toolbut Nicor's push for a ridiculous 10.35 percent Return on Equity (ROE), or profit rate for shareholders, exposes this rate-hike request for what it is: A money-grab meant to benefit shareholders to the detriment of customers who just want to keep their homes warm in an Illinois winter. CUB will challenge this unfair rate hikewe urge state regulators to slash Nicor's reckless spending and hold the company accountable. Gas is unsustainably expensive and it threatens our health and climate. State officials must begin to plan for the long-term transition away from gas to heating alternatives that are cheaper, safer and more reliable. -CUB Executive Director Sarah Moskowitz. Background: On Friday, Jan. 3 , Nicor Gas asked for a rate hike of about $308.6 million , which is actually closer to $325 million when accounting for taxes. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) will rule on the request after an 11-month rate case. , Nicor Gas asked for a rate hike of about , which is actually closer to when accounting for taxes. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) will rule on the request after an 11-month rate case. Nicor's rate-hike request includes a 10.35 percent Return on Equity (ROE), or profit rate for shareholders. The company also is asking for 54.595 percent in common equity for their capital structure. This increase impacts delivery rates, which take up about a third to a half of gas bills. It's what Nicor charges customers to cover the costs of delivering gas to homesplus a profit. According to a Nicor filing , the hike would increase the customer charge by about 20 percent, to $23.41 per month, and the per-therm distribution charge by about 26 percent, to 26.84 cents per therm. , the hike would increase the customer charge by about 20 percent, to per month, and the per-therm distribution charge by about 26 percent, to per therm. This is the fifth significant rate hike Nicor has requested since 2017. The company initially asked for about $208 million in 2017, about $230 million in 2018, about $293 million in 2021 and about $320 million in 2023. Those were believed to be record requests at the time, before Peoples Gas asked for an increase of more than $400 million and received about $303 million in 2023. in 2017, about in 2018, about in 2021 and about in 2023. Those were believed to be record requests at the time, before Peoples Gas asked for an increase of more than and received about in 2023. Nicor has received a total of about $724 million in rate hikes since 2018: $93 million in 2018, $168 million in 2019; $240 million in 2021 and $223 million in 2023. The $308 million increase, if approved, would be the largest gas hike in Illinois history. in rate hikes since 2018: in 2018, in 2019; in 2021 and in 2023. The increase, if approved, would be the largest gas hike in history. Warning: Even customers who pay an alternative gas supplier still pay Nicor's delivery charges. So customers should beware of any sales representative who says they can avoid the rate hike by going with an alternative supplier. All customers would pay these higher rates. There are plans and programs to assist customers who are having trouble paying their bills. We encourage consumers to contact their utility to get information about payment plans for which they may be eligible. Also, contact the Help Illinois Families call center, at 1-833-711-0374, to learn more about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Nicor is Illinois' largest gas utility, serving 2.2 million residential, public sector and business customers. Its parent company, Southern Co., reported about $3.9 billion in profits for the first nine months of 2024. For more than 40 years the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has been Illinois' leading nonprofit utility watchdog group. Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB opened its doors in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. Since then, CUB has saved consumers more than $20 billion by helping to block rate hikes and secure refunds. For more information, call CUB's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit CUB's website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org. SOURCE Citizens Utility Board SEATTLE, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- E8 Angels, a nonprofit cleantech angel investing community of over 130 members, announced that they attracted over $800,000 of investment into three companies chosen for the philanthropic fund, Decarbon8-US 2024, through both philanthropic and direct investment. The Decarbon8-US program is run by E8 and administered by 501(c)(3) Realize Impact. Inspired by the COP28 goal to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, the 2024 Decarbon8-US theme was Renewable Energy. It was a record year of investment and applications, with over 80 applicants from across the US and Canada. Following diligence completed by a team of over 20 E8 members, technical fellows, and experts, three companies were chosen: Atlas Power Technologies, Cecilia, and Pecos Wind Power. The winners, representing companies focused on energy storage, community-scaled wind turbines, clean hydrogen, and carbon nanotubes, presented at E8's annual meeting in Seattle, sharing the opportunity for co-investment from E8 member-investors. Philanthropic and direct investment dollars resulted in $800,000 deployed across the three companies. As the largest cleantech angel investing group in the United States, E8 has facilitated over $64 million in investment into over 160 portfolio companies. Many have gone on to have successful exits and acquisitions while fulfilling E8's mission to accelerate the transition to a cleaner and greener future. "We are thrilled to welcome Decarbon8 as a partner in Atlas Power Technologies' journey to revolutionize energy storage. Their investment underscores the critical role impact-driven funds play in advancing clean energy solutions. With Decarbon8's support, we are poised to accelerate the commercialization of our dry electrode technology for both supercapacitors and batteries and contribute meaningfully to global decarbonization efforts. Together, we aim to drive innovation, expand into new markets, and create lasting environmental and economic impacts," said Mitchell Miller, CEO of Atlas Power Technologies. As the organization closes the 2024 cycle, E8 is thrilled to announce the Decarbon8-US 2025 theme: Software and AI for Climate. "This year's record-breaking investments demonstrate the tremendous impact we can achieve by uniting philanthropy, angel investing, and cleantech innovation. As we celebrate these successes in renewable energy, we're equally excited to launch next year's Decarbon8-US Fund focused on Software and AI for climate. This next chapter will spotlight the transformative potential of digital solutions to accelerate decarbonization and create a more sustainable future," said Karin Kidder, Executive Director of E8. Decarbon8-US accepts donations of any amount throughout the year. Company applications for Decarbon8-US 2025 will open in May 2025. E8 & Decarbon8-US receive support from climate leaders, including the University of Washington's Clean Energy Institute, Washington State University, K&L Gates, CleanTech Alliance, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, and the Stolte Family Foundation. About E8 E8 is a nonprofit membership community whose mission is to accelerate the transition to a prosperous and cleaner world by investing in and nurturing emerging cleantech enterprises. Since 2006, we have invested over $64M into 160+ cleantech companies in the US and Canada. Our flexible program supports various types of investors and asset classes, including direct angel for-profit investing and a philanthropic fund dedicated to accelerating decarbonization and climate mitigation. E8's community and investment offerings are grounded in a belief in the capacity of innovative enterprises and technologies to amplify both positive returns and impact. About Decarbon8-US Decarbon8-US is an impact fund that accepts philanthropic donations and grants, making equity and debt investments in early-stage companies aligned with decarbonization priorities. Deals are sourced through annual thematic calls for proposals launched in late spring with the investments made in early fall. The Decarbon8-US program is run by E8 Angels and administered by 501(c)(3) Realize Impact. Contact: Karin Kidder Executive Director, E8 Angels 509-795-0116 Email: [email protected] Website: e8angels.com SOURCE E8 Angels BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) urges for meaningful increases in global climate finance to meet developing nations' needs, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser said in an exclusive interview with Trend. Referring to the outcomes of COP29, held in Baku in November 2024, he pointed out that IsDB had a significant and impactful participation in this event. "Our presence was marked by active engagement in numerous sessions and high-level meetings. As has been the practice of the past several years, the establishment of the IsDB Group Pavilion, alongside with our participation in the joint MDB Pavilion, served as a platform to showcase the Group's extensive climate initiatives and strategic plans. These efforts underscore our unwavering commitment to climate action, alignment with our realigned strategic direction, and dedication to advancing sustainable development in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As for the key takeaways from COP29 I can refer to: 1. The critical importance of climate finance, as demonstrated by the Baku Finance Goal (BFG), aligns with IsDB Group's objective to enhance financing capacity for its member countries. This goal is further supported under the COP process by the Azerbaijan Presidency. The COP29 Presidency BFG called on all actors to work towards providing US$1.3 trillion annually to climate finance in the developing world. The BFG more specifically targets developed countries to mobilize at least US$300 billion per year for developing countries by 2035, with special attention paid to the least developed countries and small island developing states. While the commitment to mobilize $300 billion annually by developed countries does represent a significant step forward, it falls considerably short of the financial requirements and expectations articulated by the developing world. The scale of climate challenges, as reflected in the costed needs of nationally determined contributions estimated at USD 5.1 6.8 trillion through 2030, underscores the need for a more ambitious approach to financing. Therefore, we urge all stakeholders to continue to strive for meaningful increases in global climate finance to bridge these gaps and meet the urgent needs of developing nations. 2. The urgency of ramping up investments in climate adaptation and resilience reflects the significant proportion of climate finance commitments allocated to these areas. For context, since COP27, the IsDB Group has approved more than US$5.5 billion in critical climate financing, 47% of which is dedicated to climate adaptation . 3. The reaffirmation of our commitment to the Paris Agreement is demonstrated through the alignment of our operations, strategic objectives, with a focus on facilitating the assurance of a fair and just transition for our member countries that are largely from the Global South. To this end, the IsDB Group supported seven of the 14 initiatives of the COP29 Presidency with the endorsement of the declarations of Azerbaijan on the COP29 Truce Appeal, COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge, COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action, COP29 Multisectoral Actions Pathways (MAP) Declaration to Resilient and Healthy Cities, and the COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action. 4. The need for collaborative approaches and partnerships to tackle climate challenges is reflected in our engagement in high-level dialogues and side events with partners and MDBs aimed at supporting Azerbaijan and other member countries heavily impacted by climate change, including our joint MDBs announcement of US$120 billion of climate finance for low- and middle-income countries by 2030," he said. Agreements signed during COP29 Al Jasser went on to add that the agreements signed with the Government of Azerbaijan during COP29, regarding the "Construction of the Main Irrigation Canal from the Maiden Tower Reservoir" project and the Reverse Linkage Technical Assistance Grant Agreement, are pivotal for advancing our joint climate and development objectives with the country. "Specifically, the Construction of the Main Irrigation Canal from the Maiden Tower Reservoir project is vital for enhancing water management and agricultural productivity in the region. This aligns with the goals of improving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture, which are crucial for climate adaptation. Also, the Reverse Linkage Technical Assistance Grant Agreement underscores our commitment to knowledge exchange and capacity building. By facilitating technical cooperation among our member countries, we can share best practices and innovative solutions for climate resilience and sustainable development," he said. IsDBs commitments to increased climate financing the IsDB Group chairman noted that indeed, the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) announced projections for their contributions to climate action as US$ 170 billion per year by 2030, with US$ 120 for low- and middle-income countries. "Under the joint statement issued at COP29, the IsDB committed several specific actions to support ambitious climate outcomes. At IsDB Group we set an ambitious target to allocate 35% of our total commitment to climate finance by 2025, with a significant portion dedicated to adaptation and resilience. In 2023, 46% of the Bank's total approvals were directed towards climate action, demonstrating a robust and increased ambitious commitment to low carbon and climate resilient initiatives. We fully aligned our sovereign operations with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, ensuring that our financial flows support low-carbon and climate-resilient development pathways," Al Jasser said. He pointed out that for Innovative Financial Instrument through Islamic Finance Capital Market IsDB will continue to leverage its Sustainable Finance Framework to issue green and sustainable Sukuk, mobilizing resources for climate-friendly projects. "We will enhance our efforts to provide technical assistance and build the capacity of our member countries to develop and implement effective climate action plans. We will moreover strengthen our partnerships and collaboration with other MDBs, international organizations, and the private sector players to mobilize additional resources and expertise for climate action. These commitments reflect our dedication to driving meaningful and transformative change in member countries, supporting their efforts to achieve sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change," added the IsDB Group chairman. Leveraging Islamic banking principles to combat climate change Al Jasser noted that the Islamic finance principles support climate action and sustainable development through risk-sharing, where financial transactions involve the shared risk between lender and borrower; ethical investments, which mandate investments in halal activities that do not pose any harm to individuals or society; and social justice, which promotes social welfare and economic justice aiming to reduce poverty and inequality. "It is important to highlight how the IsDB Group leverages Islamic Finance resources to effectively combat climate change and promote sustainable development. The core activities of the IsDB Group revolve around Financing Sustainable Infrastructure, positioning the Group as a leader in investments that drive sustainable development. These efforts include funding energy-efficient buildings, enhancing public transportation systems, and improving water management solutions. We continue to leverage our resources to fund these projects, ensuring that they are designed and implemented according to sustainable principles. These interventions are mainly made possible through: 1. Green Sukuk, or Islamic bonds , are a crucial tool in Islamic finance used by IsDB to fund projects that promote renewable energy, clean transportation, and other environmentally friendly initiatives. By leveraging this innovative financing tool, the IsDB supports its 57 member countries in achieving their climate action and sustainable development goals. These issuances have generated significant capital for projects with positive environmental impacts. Through Green Sukuk, the IsDB mobilizes funds for substantial investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other climate-friendly initiatives. In the last five years, through tour sustainable finance framework, we have issued over US$ 8 billion, comprising green and sustainable Sukuk investments to support our member countries. Some of the projects financed under this modality include Senegals US$ 337 million Dakar to Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) Regional Express Train project; the 600-Megawatt Clean Electricity Asagi Kalekoy Dam in Turkiye, as well as the countrys numerous solar power plants made up of 200,000 large-scale solar panels. 2. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Through our PPP funding modality and advisory services, we facilitate private sector investment in large-scale climate related projects, such as solar and hydropower initiatives, including the large-scale Ben Ban Solar Project in the Aswan Governorate in The Arab Republic of Egypt. 3. Capacity Building for Member Countries though Technical Assistance : At IsDB we offer technical assistance and training support to our member countries and financial intermediaries to enhance the knowledge and skills of stakeholders promoting the development of climate-resilient projects and the broader development of products that foster sustainable development objectives. For instance, climate smart and resilient agriculture programs in the Sahel Region covering six countries in West Africa include significant components that support capacity enhancement of drought-resistant crops and other water-efficient solutions. 4. Islamic finance and Climate Justice: Islamic banking's focus on social justice and community welfare promotes initiatives aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as poverty eradication, education, and health which are crucial for a fair and just transition in the climate discussion. The IsDB Group actively explores ways to support its member countries fairly and justly, ensuring the facilitation of their economic growth and development prospects while protecting the planet," he explained. IsDB's vision for achieving Sustainable Development Goals Al Jasser noted that the celebration of IsDB's 50th anniversary this year was a landmark moment to celebrate the Group's considerable achievements and chart its future, reaffirming its commitment to driving sustainable development in line with the development national priorities of member countries and the Sustainable Development Goals. "Since inception in 1975, the IsDB has approved over $193.6 billion across 12,078 operations . This remarkable contribution has been about improving lives and creating broad-based impact in our member countries and bringing about lasting and positive change for communities. Our vision focuses on resilience, innovation, and inclusivity. We are intensifying efforts to strengthen food security, drive green growth and foster socio-economic development. For instance, our Food Security Response Program , with a total allocation of $10.54 billion, continues to address urgent challenges while building long-term resilience. We are also committed to advancing human capital development. Last year alone, we approved $420.59 million for education and $1.4 billion for healthcare initiatives, including transformational programs in countries like Indonesia and Tajikistan. In addition to US$213.6 million for poverty reduction projects and regional integration. We furthermore achieved 37% climate finance share of total commitments, exceeding the 35% target for 2025 Technology and innovation are also central to our strategy," said the IsDB Group chairman. He noted that through initiatives like the Technology Deployment Cooperation Program and partnerships with global tech leaders, IsDB is bridging digital divides and fostering inclusion. "In May 2024, the IsDB Board of Governors marked this years 50th anniversary of the Islamic Development Bank by adopting the Riyadh Declaration. This historic declaration celebrates the IsDBs legacy, reaffirms its ethos, and clarifies its vision for the future. It lays out IsDBs vision towards promoting economic cooperation, investment, and intertrade, and to mobilizing and channeling funds and other resources flowing from within and beyond the member countries in order to drive economic and social development, build capacities, and respond to challenges and emergency crises locally and globally, while embracing innovative tools, approaches and technologies. It is aiming at strategically positioning the IsDB Group within the South-South cooperation arena by consolidating its role in promoting regional integration, intra-regional investments, intertrade, and exchange of developmental expertise and experience; developing regulatory and institutional environments; building capacities; and mobilizing the necessary partnerships. We remain steadfast in our mission to serve our members countries and humankind. By prioritizing sustainable infrastructure, inclusive human development, and climate action, we aim to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of communities around the world and maximizing the impact," Al Jasser concluded. Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn U.S. consumers seek hybrid middle ground to satisfy fuel and emission priorities; vehicle brand ambivalence and autonomous apprehension increases NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Key takeaways Deloitte's 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study examines the consumer trends and issues shaping the global automotive sector, including electrification, future vehicle intentions, brand loyalty, connectivity features and mobility-as-a-service offerings. According to the report, in the U.S., intent to purchase a hybrid vehicle (HEV/PHEV) is up 5 percentage points year-over-year to 26% as surveyed consumers seek a best of both worlds solution to fuel costs. In the U.S., intent to purchase a hybrid vehicle (HEV/PHEV) is up 5 percentage points year-over-year to 26% as surveyed consumers seek a "best of both worlds" solution to fuel costs. Internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV intent declined five and 1 percentage points year-over-year (to 62% and 5%), respectively. 5 percentage points year-over-year to 26% as surveyed consumers seek a "best of both worlds" solution to fuel costs. Internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV intent declined five and 1 percentage points year-over-year (to 62% and 5%), respectively. Demand for public charging infrastructure may be exaggerated , as 79% of U.S. EV intenders surveyed plan to charge their vehicle at home. , as 79% of U.S. EV intenders surveyed plan to charge their vehicle at home. Over half (54%) of U.S. consumers surveyed plan to switch brands for their next vehicle (up from 51% last year), as product quality ranks highest in determining the next vehicle brand choice. (up from 51% last year), as in determining the next vehicle brand choice. As driverless technology gains traction, more than half (52%) of U.S. consumers surveyed are concerned about fully autonomous robotaxi services operating where they live. operating where they live. More than 4 in 10 U.S. consumers surveyed aged 18-34 would be willing to give up vehicle ownership in favor of a fully available mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) solution. Why this matters The automotive industry continues to contend with evolving mobility, shifting consumer preferences and variable ownership experiences. For 15 years, Deloitte has explored automotive consumer trends impacting the dynamic and evolving global mobility ecosystem. This year's report, "2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study," examines the consumer trends and issues shaping the global automotive sector, including electrification, future vehicle intentions, brand loyalty, connectivity features and mobility-as-a-service offerings. Hybrid vehicles gain momentum While consumers appeared to be navigating more toward ICE powertrains last year, interest is beginning to normalize in some markets. At the same time, hybrid powertrains continue to build traction as a "best of both worlds" solution for reducing fuel costs and emissions. In addition, reliance on public charging infrastructure may be somewhat overstated given the reality of charging intentions coupled with average driving distances and increasing EV range. Among surveyed consumers in the U.S., intent to purchase hybrid electric vehicles (HEV/PHEV) is up 5 percentage points year-over-year to 26%, and interest in ICE vehicles is down 5 percentage points from 2024 to 62%. Interest in all-battery electric vehicles remains nominal among U.S. consumers surveyed and relatively flat at 5%, underscoring the headwinds automakers face in ramping up BEV production. Lowering fuel costs remains the top reason among U.S. consumers surveyed to purchase an EV (56%), followed by environmental considerations (44%) and driving experience (36%). However, available battery driving range remains a top concern (49%) for U.S. consumers surveyed, followed by the time required to charge (46%) and the lingering cost premium associated with BEVs (44%). One-third (35%) of U.S. consumers surveyed said they drive 60 miles or more from their home only once or twice a month with a further 23% saying they never drive that far away, raising an important question regarding the amount of investment being earmarked to build out EV charging infrastructure. The push to create public charging infrastructure may be overstated as most U.S. EV intenders surveyed (79%) plan to charge their vehicle at home. However, more focus on making it easy and affordable for people to install a home charger may be required as 58% of those surveyed said they currently do not have access to a dedicated EV charger. Charging wait times may be a softening barrier for U.S. consumers surveyed as three-quarters (77%) are willing to wait up to 40 minutes to charge their vehicle to 80% from zero. U.S. consumers surveyed prefer a dedicated EV charging station (44%) to a traditional gas station with EV chargers (15%). Vehicle brand loyalty wanes A significant number of global consumers surveyed intend to switch to a different brand the next time they are in the market for a vehicle. Despite evolving preferences, key factors like price, performance and quality remain the primary drivers of purchase decisions. Almost half (47%) of U.S. consumers and a majority (55%) of respondents in China and Japan owned the same brand of vehicle prior to their current car. However, in the U.S., only 5% say they are first time owners, compared to nearly one-third (31%) who say the same in China , signaling the need to build strong relationships to ensure forward brand loyalty. and owned the same brand of vehicle prior to their current car. However, in the U.S., only 5% say they are first time owners, compared to nearly one-third (31%) who say the same in , signaling the need to build strong relationships to ensure forward brand loyalty. A majority of consumers surveyed in most global markets plan to switch brands for their next vehicle, with the highest intent among consumers in China (76%) and India (72%). In contrast, 54% of U.S. consumers surveyed plan to switch brands, up 3 percentage points from 2024. (76%) and (72%). In contrast, 54% of U.S. consumers surveyed plan to switch brands, up 3 percentage points from 2024. Brand affinity for domestic brands ranks highest among surveyed consumers in Japan (76%), whereas almost half (47%) of U.S. consumers surveyed indicate no preference as long as the vehicle meets their needs. (76%), whereas almost half (47%) of U.S. consumers surveyed indicate no preference as long as the vehicle meets their needs. When determining the brand of choice for their next vehicle, U.S. consumers surveyed prioritize product quality (58%), followed by price (53%) and vehicle performance (51%). Regardless of vehicle brand, U.S. consumers maintain the need to interact with the vehicle in person (86%) and conduct a test drive to ensure it is the right fit (86%). Key quote "As the global automotive sector continues to navigate shifting consumer preferences, powertrain intent and brand affinity are two decisive battlegrounds for industry stakeholders across the value chain. Interest in full hybrids and range extender technologies reflects a growing desire for pragmatic, cost-effective solutions that lower emissions without requiring a robust charging infrastructure. Simultaneously, brand loyalty is being tested, with rising defection rates across several markets signaling the importance of cultivating strong relationships, particularly in emerging markets with a high proportion of first-time buyers." Jody Stidham, managing director, global automotive, Deloitte Consulting LLP Consumers want new technology on their terms As autonomous vehicle technology extends into potential commercial applications, consumer safety concerns mount as opposed to dealing with safety-related AI features in isolation. As automakers continue looking for ways to monetize vehicle cabins and infotainment screens, transitioning consumers away from longstanding smartphone integration may be difficult in some markets. Further, mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) is emerging as an alternative to traditional vehicle ownership for younger, cost-conscious consumers surveyed. When it comes to autonomous applications, surveyed consumers express concerns over fully driverless robotaxi services operating in India (63%), the U.K. (52%) and the U.S. (52%). (63%), the U.K. (52%) and the U.S. (52%). How new technology is deployed makes a difference, as the majority of consumers surveyed in India (82%) and China (77%) see the addition of AI in vehicle systems as beneficial. Conversely, that sentiment is less prevalent in the U.S. (45%) and the U.K. (43%). (82%) and (77%) see the addition of AI in vehicle systems as beneficial. Conversely, that sentiment is less prevalent in the U.S. (45%) and the U.K. (43%). As some automakers seek to introduce their own connected service ecosystems, surveyed consumers in some global markets still believe their next vehicle should retain the ability to connect with their smartphone, particularly in the U.S. (63%) and India (87%). (87%). About one-half of those surveyed in the U.S. (49%) and India (51%) indicate they drive their vehicle every day, twice that of consumers in South Korea (25%) and Japan (23%), reflecting the quality and/or availability of mass transit in those markets. (51%) indicate they drive their vehicle every day, twice that of consumers in (25%) and (23%), reflecting the quality and/or availability of mass transit in those markets. Despite the travel volumes observed among those surveyed in India and the U.S., many younger consumers aged 18-34 are interested in giving up vehicle ownership in favor of a mobility-as-a-service solution (U.S. 44%; India 70%). Key quote "The U.S. automotive industry is navigating a period of profound transformation, shaped by evolving mobility trends, shifting consumer preferences and diverse ownership models. Considering last year's slowdown on EV intent, the rise in hybrid adoption may serve as a practical bridge between legacy and alternative powertrains for U.S. consumers as infrastructure and cost realities persist in the near term. Autonomous vehicle technology is also regaining attention, but safety concerns remain a significant hurdle to success." Lisa Walker, vice chair and U.S. automotive sector leader, Deloitte Deloitte's "2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study," is based on a survey of more than 31,000 consumers from 30 countries conducted between October and November 2024. For additional details and country-specifics, please visit the interactive dashboard. About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500 and more than 8,500 U.S.-based private companies. At Deloitte, we strive to live our purpose of making an impact that matters by creating trust and confidence in a more equitable society. We leverage our unique blend of business acumen, command of technology, and strategic technology alliances to advise our clients across industries as they build their future. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Bringing more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte's approximately 460,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms. SOURCE Deloitte DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Demand The Limits Personal Injury Attorneys, the Boca Raton law firm specializing in personal injury cases, is offering legal representation to all victims of Brightline train accidents, including the recent collision in Delray Beach. With a commitment to securing justice for those affected by catastrophic accidents, Demand The Limits is dedicated to getting the proper compensation for those injured in this event. Demand the Limits Accident Attorneys Offer Representation for Delray Beach Train Accident Victims On December 28th, 2024, a Brightline train collided with a Delray Beach Fire Rescue truck, injuring 15 people. At approximately 10:45 a.m., the firetruck was crossing the Florida East Coast Railway tracks near Southeast First Street when it was struck by the Brightline train. Demand The Limits is actively seeking to represent all victims of this devastating collision, ensuring they receive the compensation and justice they deserve. Brightline, Florida's privately operated passenger rail system, offers a convenient and comfortable travel option between Miami and Orlando. However, recent data from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) reveals a concerning rise in Brightline-related fatalities, with deaths increasing by 178% in 2024 alone. Since its inception, 125 individuals have lost their lives in Brightline incidents, underscoring the pressing need for legal advocacy for victims of these accidents. Train accidents involving Brightline can be caused by several factors, including operator errors, defective equipment, track maintenance failures, crossing gate violations, and communication failures. Demand The Limits has extensive experience in handling these complex cases and is prepared to navigate the legal intricacies of train accidents to secure justice for victims. Determining fault in a Brightline train accident requires thorough investigation, as multiple parties may be responsible. Liable parties may include train operators or crew members, Brightline Transportation Services, LLC, companies responsible for track maintenance, manufacturers of train components or safety equipment, and municipalities or government agencies. Demand The Limits' team of skilled attorneys is dedicated to ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable for their negligence. Victims of Brightline train accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life. For families who have lost a loved one, Demand The Limits is also committed to seeking compensation for funeral expenses, financial support loss, emotional pain, and loss of companionship. Those affected by the recent Brightline train accident in Delray Beach or any other incident involving Brightline are encouraged to contact Demand The Limits for a free consultation. The firm's experienced train accident attorneys are available 24/7 to provide the dedicated legal support victims need. For a free consultation, call 561-600-3555 or visit demandthelimits.com/brightline. SOURCE Demand the Limits DETROIT, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Detroit 2030 District has announced the beneficiaries of its EV Charging Station program, which rolled out last November. The program is installing ten electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at member buildings, including several houses of worship in underserved Detroit neighborhoods. This initiative marks a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions from transportation in the city. "We are proud to be able to provide this benefit to our Detroit 2030 District building owners and expand access to EV charging in the city of Detroit, especially to six of our house of worship members located in neighborhoods where access to transportation may be difficult," said Peggy Matta, Detroit 2030 District EV Charging Program Manager. The program is designed to address Detroit's growing demand for reliable and accessible EV charging solutions. The Detroit 2030 District has partnered with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to bring this program to its members. "Pastor Isaiah Pettway and the congregation of Beth Eden are elated to be chosen to receive a Level 2 EV charger at no cost for our congregation," said Sonya Bennett, Beth Eden Missionary Baptist Church. "It is our prayer to offer this green initiative to anyone who may need its utilization at a fair rate for the community." The Detroit 2030 District is also partnering with other like-minded Detroit-based nonprofits, including NextEnergy , Powering Michigan , Michigan Clean Cities and DTE Energy , to make this program a reality. "Michigan Clean Cities and NextEnergy are elated to see additional EV charging infrastructure installed across the city. The heart of our work is rooted in equity, so as EV use and accessibility continue to grow for Detroiters, doubts about range and access to close, reliable charging can begin to subside," said Lauren Mixon, Community Engagement Liaison, with Michigan Clean Cities and NextEnergy. "We're proud to provide technical support to this program through the national EMPOWER project. Initiatives like this ensure the growth of EV charging and manufacturing and create equitable benefits for communities across our state." The Detroit 2030 District program aims to reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. With over 500 buildings enrolled, totaling more than 67 million square feet, the program is making headway toward its mission of reducing carbon from the built environment at a large scale. Detroit 2030 District offers its members free education, resources, and assistance with benchmarking their buildings' energy and water usage. Benchmarking helps building owners and managers manage energy, water consumption, and transportation emissions and comply with the City of Detroit Energy and Water Benchmarking Ordinance. The ordinance was adopted in November 2023 and took effect October 1, 2024. For more information about Detroit 2030 District and tickets to the Annual Kickoff Party & Fundraiser on January 30, 2025, at the historic Roostertail, visit 2030districts.org/Detroit . About the Detroit 2030 District: The Detroit 2030 District is part of a national movement to create a high-performance building district by reducing the environmental impacts of building construction and operations while increasing building owners' return on investment, promoting economic development and supporting environmental justice. The organization's mission is to educate and assist Detroit building owners and managers with reducing carbon emissions and operating expenses by reducing energy and water consumption and transportation emissions to and from their buildings. MEDIA CONTACT: CONNIE LILLEY 248-897-1255 [email protected] SOURCE Detroit 2030 District EdTech leader highlighted for driving LGBTQ+ workplace equality RESTON, Va., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ellucian, the leading higher education technology solutions provider, today announced that it has been included in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's (HRCF) 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI) for the first time, receiving a score of 85 out of 100. The CEI is the U.S.'s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. "Ellucian's efforts to support employees in the LGBTQ+ community continue to drive impactful change," said Camilla Collins, Global Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Ellucian. "Recognition from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation celebrates the inspiring efforts of employees across our organization to expand resources, foster inclusion, and amplify representation for the LGBTQ+ community. Together, we will continue to break down barriers, build bridges, and create a future where diversity is embraced and celebrated." Ellucian's inclusive benefits, internal training programs, coffee chats, Allies and LGBTQ+ support programs such as the PRISM Employee Resource Group were instrumental in securing this recognition. "We are deeply proud to be recognized in the 2025 Corporate Equality Index," said Greg Giangrande, Chief People & Communications Officer, Ellucian. "This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to embed inclusion and belonging into the fabric of our workplace. At Ellucian, we remain steadfast in our commitment to cultivating a working environment where all employees feel empowered, supported, and celebrated." The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars: Non-discrimination policies across business entities; Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families; Supporting an inclusive culture; and, Corporate social responsibility. "The CEI is so much more than a score on paper. For decades businesses have relied on the CEI as a tool for transparency and leveling the playing field for all workers, making sure LGBTQ+ people and their families can share in fair, respectful and supportive workplaces and benefits," said RaShawn "Shawnie" Hawkins, SHRM-CP, Senior Director of Workplace Equality, HRCF. "As conversations evolve on corporate America's approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, year-over-year growth in CEI participation is evidence of a business community that largely recognizes the responsibility and value in upholding equity and inclusion. Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation is to work in a spirit of partnership with companies, providing educational resources and leading benchmarking. The work of the CEI is to help businesses to expand their consumer base and attract top, innovative talent by supporting the LGBTQ+ community." The full report is available online at: https://www.hrc.org/resources/corporate-equality-index ABOUT THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN FOUNDATION The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public's understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work. ABOUT ELLUCIAN Ellucian powers innovation for higher education, partnering with more than 2,900 customers across 50 countries, serving over 20 million students. Ellucian's AI-powered platform, trained on the richest dataset available in higher education, drives efficiency, personalized experiences, and strengthened engagement for students, faculty and staff. Fueled by decades of experience with a singular focus on the unique needs of learning institutions, the Ellucian platform features best-in-class SaaS capabilities and delivers insights needed now and into the future. These solutions and services span the entire student lifecycle, including data-rich tools for student recruitment, enrollment, and retention to workforce analytics, fundraising, and alumni engagement. Ellucian's innovative solutions, vast ecosystem of partners and user community of more than 45,000 provides best practices leading to greater institutional success and achieving better student outcomes. Media Contact Jess Weston [email protected] SOURCE Ellucian WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Universities Space Research Association (USRA) announced today that Dr. Elsayed Talaat will join USRA as President and CEO, effective January 27. Dr. Talaat is an accomplished leader with a strong background in Atmospheric and Space Science and well-rounded experience with NOAA, NASA, and JHU/APL. Dr. Talaat has been responsible for programmatic and technical coordination with OSTP, the Department of Defense, other federal agencies, non-Federal agendas/industries, and international partners. Dr. Talaat was selected following an extensive national search undertaken by the USRA Board of Trustees, assisted by the executive search firm of Korn Ferry. Currently, Dr. Elsayed Talaat is the Director of the Office of Space Weather Observations at NESDIS, where he provides leadership and oversight in the development, acquisition, integration, installation, and acceptance of major system elements (spacecraft, instruments, launch services, and ground systems) for NOAA's operational environmental satellite systems. Before joining NOAA, Dr. Talaat was the Chief Scientist of the Heliophysics Division at NASA Headquarters. In this role, he directed overall development efforts for the Heliophysics space science program in Solar, Heliospheric, Magnetospheric, and Ionospheric, Thermospheric, and Mesospheric physics. Previously, he was a Program Scientist at NASA Headquarters where he served as Program Scientist for the Living with a Star mission and science line, grant research lines, and Heliophysics and Planetary missions. Prior to joining NASA, he was Supervisor of the Earth and Planetary Atmospheres Section at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), where his research focused on developing remote sensing techniques and data analysis and modeling of geophysical and planetary phenomena. "We are excited to welcome Dr. Talaat as the next CEO of USRA. We firmly believe he is the ideal leader to guide the organization into its next phase of growth and success," said Gen Lester Lyles, Chair of the Board of Trustees. "Dr. Talaat brings extensive leadership experience and a strong track record of success from his time at NOAA, NASA, and APL, which will enhance USRA's credibility and collaboration with these key agencies and with our University Association. He has demonstrated an exceptional ability to build coalitions with both existing and prospective partners, always with a focus on addressing future customer needs. Additionally, his forward-thinking vision for leveraging USRA's unique University Association value proposition positions the organization for continued success. We are excited to see how Dr. Talaat will build upon Dr. Isaacson's remarkable legacy and drive USRA towards an even brighter future." Dr. Talaat received his Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering from the University of Washington, and a Master of Science and Doctorate from the University of Michigan in Atmospheric and Space Sciences. He has authored or collaborated on over 60 journal papers and over 250 conference papers. About USRA Founded in 1969, under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences at the request of the U.S. Government, the Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is a nonprofit corporation chartered to advance space-related science, technology, and engineering. USRA operates scientific institutes and facilities and conducts other major research and educational programs. It is an association with 121 university members. It engages the broader university community, employs in-house scientific talent, and offers innovative research, development, and project management expertise. More information about USRA is available at www.usra.edu. PR Contact: Suraiya Farukhi [email protected] 443-812-6945 SOURCE Universities Space Research Association SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2024, family-owned insurance agency Empower Brokerage welcomed 490 individuals to attend free two-day training courses teaching insurance industry basics. With nine total licensing classes having taken place in 2024, Empower is making regular bids to help people embark on a new chapter in the book of their lives. The insurance industry is unique in its recession-proof resilience, and each of these attendees has taken the first step in creating a better future for themselves. Empower Brokerage proudly walks alongside them as these new agents build their own insurance businesses. For over 50 years, Empower has prioritized providing exceptional customer service to both the public and partnering agents. When new agent recruits agree to partner with the FMO, they are greeted with the opportunity to learn about health insurance, life insurance, annuities, Medicare, ancillary insurance products, laws, and regulations from an industry-leading expert. Upon completion of the licensing class, students are well-equipped to pass their respective state licensing exams, the first step to becoming a certified insurance professional. Prospective agents are also guided by the organization's regional sales director team, which spans the country. These knowledgeable directors are readily available to mentor and further train recruits. While some agents decide to make a full-time job out of insurance sales, others choose to balance their current workload by serving the public as an insurance problem solver part-time. Regardless, Empower Brokerage partners with new and seasoned agents to continue training, educating, and assisting them throughout their careers. Throughout most of the year, Empower offers licensing classes every six weeks. The next class will take place January 18-19, 2025. If you want to begin a new career in a stable industry, please contact Empower Brokerage at (888) 539-1633 and ask about their next free licensing class. You can also visit their website and sign up HERE. SOURCE Empower Brokerage, Inc. Appointment Reflects Commitment to Continuing Essex's Strategic Vision ROCKVILLE, Md., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Essex Management, an Emmes Group company and a leader in biomedical informatics and health information technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of David Loose as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. David succeeds Kevin Hurley, who has served as CEO since February 2019 and will transition to the role of Executive Advisor. David Loose, CEO, Essex Management Emmes Logo (PRNewsFoto/Emmes) (PRNewsfoto/Emmes) David Loose joined Essex Management as a partner in February 2009 and has played a pivotal role in the company's growth. Starting as Vice President for Business Operations and Development, he later served as Chief Business Officer, overseeing critical operations, driving client-focused innovation, and delivering strategic initiatives such as NCI's Clinical Trials Reporting Program (CTRP). His leadership and dedication to Essex's mission have been instrumental in building its reputation as a trusted partner in the biomedical and health technology sectors. "David's leadership and dedication to Essex's mission make him the ideal choice to guide the company forward," said Sastry Chilukuri, CEO of Emmes Group. "His focus on innovation and client success will ensure Essex continues to deliver transformative solutions in biomedical informatics and health IT." Essex also recognizes Kevin Hurley's significant contributions since joining the company in 2009. As a founding partner and later as CEO, Kevin guided Essex through transformative milestones, including its acquisition by Emmes Group in 2023. "We are deeply grateful for Kevin's leadership and dedication over the years," said David Loose. "His vision has been instrumental in Essex' success, and we're fortunate to have his continued guidance as an Executive Advisor." Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, Essex Management brings together multidisciplinary teams of engineers, business analysts, and project managers with computational biologists and clinical experts. Together, they deliver innovative health and biomedical information solutions for federal agencies, research institutions, and private-sector clients. Under David Loose's leadership, Essex Management is poised to build on its legacy of navigating the complexities of scientific computing to save lives and improve the quality of care. About Emmes Group: Emmes Group, a specialty, technology and AI enabled contract research organization (CRO), is advancing and modernizing clinical research to improve patient outcomes. Founded as Emmes more than 47 years ago, we became a trusted clinical research partner to the U.S. government. Today, Emmes Group is a global full-service CRO operating in 72 countries worldwide collaborating with government agencies, public-private partnerships, and biopharma innovators. Now wholly owned by New Mountain Capital, we are transforming the future of clinical research and bringing life-changing treatments closer to patients. Where human intelligence meets artificial intelligence. Learn more at www.theemmesgroup.com. About Essex Management: Essex Management, an Emmes Group company, is a biomedical informatics and health information technology firm that provides tailored consulting services and advanced technology solutions. Since 2009, Essex has strategically developed and managed complex health and biomedical information programs for the Federal Government, research academia, and private sectors. Headquartered in Rockville, MD, Essex Management is committed to saving lives and improving the quality of care through innovative solutions. Learn more at www.essexmanagement.com. SOURCE Emmes Group Add-On Acquisition Accelerates Persona-Triangle's Growth in Facility Services BALTIMORE, Md., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Exeter Street Capital Partners ("Exeter"), the private equity affiliate of Patriot Capital Group, today announced that its portfolio company Exeter Image Holdings, LLC ("Persona-Triangle") has acquired Advanced Facility Solutions, LLC ("AFS"). AFS tombstone Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Saddle Brook, NJ, AFS has rapidly emerged as a leading national provider of facilities maintenance and construction services for some of the largest brands in the United States. Serving industries such as retail, convenience, storage, healthcare, and education, AFS delivers tailored solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of its clients. "We are thrilled to welcome Advanced Facility Solutions to our family," said Greg Kulesa, CEO of Persona-Triangle. "AFS is a national, multi-service facility maintenance and construction company known for its passionate team of professionals who drive success and exceptional customer service. The AFS team will greatly expand our ability to serve our core customers' broader facility services requirements, and is strategically accretive to Persona-Triangle as we advance our market leadership in multiple subsectors." AFS's turnkey solutions include reactive and preventive maintenance services, rollout programs, and large-scale construction projectsavailable on-demand, 24/7/365. Their streamlined operations and cutting-edge technology provide clients with efficient, proactive, and cost-saving solutions. By combining trade expertise with a focus on consumer-centric environments, AFS empowers property owners and managers to operate their locations economically, efficiently, and effectively. AFS sets itself apart with an unwavering commitment to relationships with clients, employees, partners, as well as the communities they serve. Together with Persona-Triangle, one of the largest commercial signage providers in the United States, AFS and Persona-Triangle will offer customers tremendous one-stop facility services capabilities covering a wide range of facility requirements. While AFS will continue to serve its respective customers and markets directly under the AFS name, the combined company will leverage the size and scale of Persona-Triangle to accelerate its growth. "We are thrilled to join forces with the Persona-Triangle team, who bring a tremendous breadth of resources and capabilities we will leverage to increase, accelerate, and improve what we already do for our customers," said Marc Denman, CEO of AFS. Enterprise Bank and Trust provided senior debt financing for the deal. Three Sixty Seven Advisors acted as the sole M&A advisor to the transaction. Nelson Mullins represented Exeter and Persona-Triangle in the transaction. Harbert Credit Solutions, NewSpring Mezzanine, Northcreek Mezzanine, and members of Persona-Triangle leadership team continue to be investment partners with Exeter in Persona-Triangle. About Persona-Triangle Persona-Triangle is a leading national provider of commercial signage, lighting, and facility service solutions. Its turnkey solutions include inhouse design and engineering, site- and permit-planning, start-to-finish project management, state-of-the-art production facilities, and complementary property improvement capabilities which enable Persona-Triangle to support a diverse, blue-chip customer base representing some of the largest globally recognized brands. The Company serves over 200 marquis brands at more than 8,000 locations across North America annually. Persona-Triangle's is headquartered in Watertown, SD, and in combination with its Triangle division in Baltimore, MD, boasts over 270,000 square feet of combined manufacturing space across 4 factories and employs over 500 people. The Triangle division specializes in custom, architecturally unique, and premium signage for many of North America's most iconic commercial and retail companies, while the Persona division, based in Madison, SD, leverages its dominant market share in hospitality to lead the nation in large format, programmatic signage for the largest brands and franchise operators in the world. With its strong foundation in commercial signage manufacturing and project management, the Company's fastest growing division is facility services, which includes commercial lighting, facility repairs & maintenance, capital renovation projects, and property-improvement-plans (PIPs). The company is actively growing this division both organically and through acquisitions. About Exeter Street Capital Partners Exeter Street Capital Partners is the independent sponsor affiliate of the Patriot Capital Group. We invest in promising small cap companies within the specialty industrial and services sectors, then pursue strategies that can build them into market leaders: national, regional, or sector; and we have a demonstrated track record of success doing so. Exeter has raised and deployed over $1 billion across 11 investments since 2014, and over $400 million since 2021. We form close partnerships with the existing management of growing businesses where our capital, operating resources, financial expertise, strategic insights and professional network can accelerate growth and build long term value. We take a long term, partnership approach to investing, and are under no pre-determined timeline to exit or monetize our investments. For more information, please visit www.exeterstreetcapital.com. Contact Information Samantha Lee Marketing Director (415) 310-0330 [email protected] SOURCE Exeter Street Capital Partners HONG KONG, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Eyebright Medical Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. ("Eyebright Medical", the "Company", Stock Code: 688050.SH, together with its subsidiaries collectively known as the "Group") is proud to announce that our Phakic intraocular lens, "Loong Crystal PR", has received Class III Medical Devices Certificate from the National Medical Products Administration ("NMPA"). The Loong Crystal PR intraocular lens is meticulously designed for the treatment of adult patients, providing effective correction or reduction of myopia ranging from -3.25D to -18.00D. This lens offers a tailored solution for individuals with varying degrees of myopia, ensuring optimal visual outcomes and enhancing patient satisfaction. Constructed from an advanced balanced acrylic material, the Loong Crystal PR incorporates a zero spherical aberration design with a large optical zone and a double concave stable arch height structure. Upon implantation, it serves as a refractive element, significantly improving visual acuity while delivering high-quality postoperative results. This innovative design not only boosts optical performance but also elevates the overall visual experience, meeting the high expectations of patients for visual clarity. Eyebright Medical prioritizes technology and continuous innovation, aiming to deliver high-quality, safe, and reliable ophthalmic solutions. Through ongoing research and development, the company is dedicated to expanding the domestic ophthalmology landscape and enhancing the recognition of national brands in the industry. About Eyebright Medical Eyebright Medical Technology (Beijing) Ltd ("Eyebright Medical"; SH Stock Code: 688050.SH) is a National High-tech Enterprise and state-level technologically advanced 'little giant' enterprises, located in Zhongguancun Science and Technology Park, Beijing, China. The Company is an innovation-driven ophthalmic medical device manufacturer. Its balanced product portfolio spans three major areas of the ophthalmic field: cataract surgery, myopia management, as well as consumer vision care. Anchored by its three core product categories - intraocular lenses, orthokeratology lenses, and soft contact lenses - the company has strategically expanded its product pipeline to cover the full life cycle of eye health solutions. Eyebright Medical is striding into a world-leading medical enterprise on behalf of China's 'intelligent manufacturing' power. For more information about Eyebright Medical, please visit the official website of the Group: http://www.ebmedical.com/en/ SOURCE Eyebright Medical Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. LA CANADA FLINTRIDGE, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new website, pickleballnoiserelief.com, aims to help people experiencing negative physical and mental health impacts of pickleball noise. The Robert and Nalini Lasiewicz Foundation, known for its work in community engagement, is providing support for this project. Resources for Residents "With the rapid proliferation of pickleball courts across the country, people living near these courts are increasingly reporting health issues from the impulsive noise from the paddle-to-ball impacts," said Nalini Lasiewicz, executive director of the Foundation. "Pickleball noise is an emerging health threat that is linked to severe trauma/stress responses and auditory hallucinations," she said. The new website gives residents a well-researched resource to begin the process of re-establishing quiet enjoyment of their home and property, including: How-to Guides Model Noise Ordinance for Pickleball Health Resources Legal resources "This new website is a godsend for the many people who are suffering from the health effects of pickleball noise. Nowhere else can one find the information and resources on this subject on a single website," according to George Weiss, former City Council member, Laguna Beach, CA, who participated along with a team of reviewers during the project. A Growing Community of Noise Pollution Victims, Fighting Back Lasiewicz partnered with members of the Pickleball Noise Relief group on Facebook to design the website. Members upload videos and detail their struggles after being involuntarily exposed to short bursts of high pitch "pops" from pickleball games, often 10-14 hours per day. One pickleball court alone can produce up to 900 pops an hour. Nearby residents describe a range of health concerns resulting in personal injury and nuisance claims, lawsuits and in some cases, residents selling their homes. The website includes a confidential Help Desk with resources for attorneys representing noise victims and a "noise Hot Spot map" with over 350 locations, including 70 in California alone. Resources for Scientists and Health Professionals The Foundation's Health and Science Advisory Group, chaired by Dr. Kathleen Romito, has conducted a preliminary analysis of public data, including social media posts, news reports, and legal filings related to the impact of unwanted pickleball noise. Dr. Romito will present her initial findings and call for research at the 180th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America in New Orleans in May 2025. Dr. Romito holds a Doctor of Medicine from the University of San Diego School of Medicine and a bachelor's degree in microbiology and immunology from the University of California, Berkeley. About the Robert and Nalini Lasiewicz Foundation The Robert and Nalini Lasiewicz Foundation is a California non-profit organization dedicated to supporting projects that enhance education, democracy, peace, personal health, community, and civic engagement. Media Kit (link) SOURCE Robert and Nalini Lasiewicz Foundation 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. Fisher Investments' Founder Ken Fisher Maintains Majority Controlling Interest PLANO, Texas, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Fisher Investments ("FI") announced that Advent International ("Advent") and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority ("ADIA") completed a previously announced minority investment in Ken Fisher's namesake firm, Fisher Investments. The $3 billion common stock investment by Advent and ADIA values FI at $12.75 billion. The transaction was part of Ken Fisher's long-term estate planning and ensures FI's long-term private independence, culture, growth evolution and devotion to exceptional client service. Ken Fisher remains active in his current role as FI's Executive Chairman and Co-Chief Investment Officer and retains a majority of beneficial ownership and over 70% of voting shares in FI. FI CEO Damian Ornani continues to drive FI's day-to-day operations and business strategy. In connection with the investment, David Mussafer, a Managing Partner at Advent, has joined the board of directors at FI, and Gabriela Weiss, a Principal at Advent, has joined as a board observer at FI. As of 12/31/24, FI managed nearly $300 billion for over 170,000 clients globally, including over 130,000 US private clients and 200 of the world's largest and most well-known institutional clients. This is the first outside investment in FI, with previous ownership solely among family and employees. There is no further FI investment transaction contemplated. The investment in common shares includes neither options nor non-common stock preferences and includes proportional voting to the investors' beneficial ownership in FI. Ken Fisher said, "While my health is excellent, this transaction is aimed dually at long-term estate tax and planning purposes should anything untoward happen to me. Advent and ADIA are truly exceptional partners who value us operationally and culturally, and are committed to preserving what differentiates FI in our industry." Damian Ornani, longtime FI CEO, said, "We welcome Advent and ADIA's support of our mission to help more new clients around the world." David Mussafer said, "We are thrilled to cement Advent's partnership with FI at a moment when there is a growing need for the smart, independent and personalized financial expertise that FI is recognized for providing for 45 years. We look forward to closely collaborating with Ken, Damian and the rest of the FI team to support the company's continued growth, drawing on Advent's deep expertise in helping financial services companies best capitalize on the opportunities ahead." J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and RBC Capital Markets served as joint financial advisors and Paul Hastings served as legal advisor to FI. Ropes & Gray served as legal advisor to Advent. Gibson Dunn served as legal advisor to ADIA. About Fisher Investments Founded in 1979, Fisher Investments is an independent, fee-only investment adviser. Fisher Investments and its subsidiaries manage nearly $300 billion across three principal businessesInstitutional, US Private Client, and Private Client International. Founder and Executive Chairman Ken Fisher wrote the Forbes "Portfolio Strategy" column for 32 years until 2017, making him the longest running columnist in its history. He now writes monthly for the New York Post and discreet unique columns in native language, varying by country, in 26 major nations, spanning more countries and more total volume than any other columnist of any type in history. Ken has appeared regularly on major TV news like Fox Business and News, BBN Bloomberg and CNN International. Ken has written 11 investing and finance books, including four New York Times bestsellers. For more information, visit www.fisherinvestments.com. About Advent International Advent is a leading global private equity investor committed to working in partnership with management teams, entrepreneurs, and founders to help transform businesses. With 16 offices across five continents, we oversee more than USD $88.8 billion in assets under management* and have made more than 420 investments across 43 countries. Since our founding in 1984, we have developed specialist market expertise across our five core sectors: business & financial services, consumer, healthcare, industrial, and technology. This approach is bolstered by our deep sub-sector knowledge, which informs every aspect of our investment strategy, from sourcing opportunities to working in partnership with management to execute value creation plans. We bring hands-on operational expertise to enhance and accelerate businesses. As one of the largest privately-owned partnerships, our 650+ colleagues leverage the full ecosystem of Advent's global resources, including our Portfolio Support Group, insights provided by industry expert Operating Partners and Operations Advisors, as well as bespoke tools to support and guide our portfolio companies as they seek to achieve their strategic goals. To learn more, visit our website connect with us on LinkedIn. *Advent assets under management (AUM) as of June 30, 2024. AUM includes assets attributable to Advent advisory clients as well as employee and third-party co-investment vehicles. About Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Established in 1976, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority ("ADIA") is a globally diversified investment institution that prudently invests funds on behalf of the Government of Abu Dhabi through a strategy focused on long-term value creation. For more information, visit www.adia.ae. Media Contacts For Fisher Investments Naj Srinivas Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications [email protected] For Advent International Leslie Shribman Head of Communications [email protected] For ADIA Garry Nickson Corporate Communications & Public Affairs [email protected] SOURCE Fisher Investments FCS ranked in the top 1% of healthcare providers for patient experience FORT MYERS, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC (FCS) has been named a 2024 Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence Award winner by Press Ganey, the global leader in healthcare experience solutions and services. This award is part of Press Ganey's annual ranking of performance in consumer experience among the top hospitals and health systems in the country. As a winner of the Press Ganey HX Guardian of Excellence Award, FCS is in the top 1% of healthcare providers in delivering exceptional patient experience in the last year. Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute receives Press Ganey 2024 Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence Award as a top provider in patient experience. FCS President and Managing Physician Lucio N. Gordan, MD said, "It is our honor to serve our patients and their families with compassion and caring at each step of their journey. At FCS, every interaction is precisely focused on the patient experience not only to expand the availability of lifesaving treatment, but to enhance wellbeing and enable each person to achieve the best possible outcome. FCS relies on the valuable insights obtained through its partnership with Press Ganey to continuously monitor its performance, ensuring that patient needs, preferences and concerns are consistently addressed, further strengthening the statewide practice's delivery of cancer care. "Ranking in the top tier of our nation's healthcare providers is a testament to our 250 physicians and 4700 team members who consistently demonstrate their unwavering commitment to delivering world-class cancer care and an exceptional patient experience," said FCS Chief Executive Officer Nathan H. Walcker. "This achievement is especially meaningful in a year when three major hurricane events impacted nearly every location in our statewide network. Our teams worked tirelessly, with remarkable dedication and resilience, to protect our patients, our facilities and one another, resulting in minimal disruption to patient care." Press Ganey works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience to improve the overall safety, quality and experience of care. "FCS is setting the standard for excellence in patient experience," said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO and chairman at Press Ganey. "They are leading the way by turning words into action and creating a culture where every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact. It's clear they're committed to making a difference." View the 2025 Guardian of Excellence Awards: https://www.pressganey.com/company/awards/2024-human-experience-award-recipients/ About Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC: (FLCancer.com) Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) offers patients access to more clinical trials than any private oncology practice in Florida. The majority of new cancer drugs recently approved for use in the U.S. were studied in clinical trials with FCS participation.* Recognized for our research, FCS is a recipient of the national Clinical Trials Participation Award presented by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). FCS physicians, trained in prestigious medical schools and research institutes, are consistently ranked nationally as Top Doctors by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1984, FCS has built a national reputation for excellence that is reflected in exceptional and compassionate patient care, driven by innovative clinical research, cutting-edge technologies and advanced treatments, including targeted therapies genomic-based treatment and immunotherapy. Our highest values are embodied by our outstanding team of highly trained and dedicated physicians, clinicians and staff. *Prior to approval About Press Ganey: Press Ganey partners with healthcare providers and health plans to improve the experiences of their patients, consumers, and workforce by marrying data with unparalleled technology, analytics, and expertise. Our Human Experience (HX) platform unites and enlivens disparate data, enabling clients to gather, analyze, visualize, and act on key insights to retain talent, improve access to care, and ensure the care journey is safe, equitable, and patient-centered. We are the trusted partner to 41,000+ healthcare provider organizations globally and 85% of health plans in the United States. Press Ganey is a PG Forsta company. SOURCE Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute PARIS, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Galenic, a premium French skincare brand mastering in cellular beauty, introduces Zhao Liying as its new global brand ambassador, marking a new chapter in its pursuit of excellence. Together, they unveil the revolutionary performance of Galeniceutiques [N1], highlighting its advances formula that delivers exceptional results by brightening and evening out the complexion. Galenic collaborates with Zhao Liying to embody the spirit of "beyond limits and the relentless pursuit of perfection," showcasing the perfect fusion of strength and beauty. Zhao Liying Exemplifies Beauty, Elegance, and Excellence That Resonates Deeply with Galenic's Philosophy As an actress with immense influence in China, Zhao Liying has continuously pushed the boundaries of her career, earning audience acclaim and industry recognition for her unwavering commitment to excellence. Zhao Liying is a renowned Chinese actress, celebrated both domestically and internationally for her versatile performances in TV and film. In recent years, her repertoire with a series of critically acclaimed roles has expanded her influence. Just as science requires precision, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of perfection, so does the art of acting. Zhao Liying exemplifies beauty, grace, and excellencevalues that resonate deeply with Galenic's philosophy. Galenic, born from medical science, has led the way in cell longevity skincare, utilizing its exclusive ActiveAnchor penetration technology to deliver active ingredients effectively, achieving "overnight brightening" for the skin. Galenic's Over 45 years of pioneering in cell longevity Galenic's standing as a master in cellular skincare is grounded in over 45 years of consistent scientific innovation. Founded in 1978 by Dr. Pierre Fabre in Paris, Galenic is the legacy of a renowned pharmaceutical and dermatological scientist whose contributions have earned him praise from three French presidents and the prestigious Legion of Honour. Drawing on medicine, Galenic adheres to a rigorous product philosophy. Its exclusive ActiveAnchor penetration technology is based on formulas that deeply penetrate skin cells, enabling active ingredients to achieve efficacy. This cutting-edge technology guarantees that every product undergoes three levels of scientific verification to confirm both efficacy and safety, providing consumers with deeper, more active, and more effective results. The No.1 Premium Brightening Essence Galeniceutiques [N1] With over 45 years of pioneering in cellular skincare, Galenic has created its iconic product, the Galeniceutiques [N1]. According to SGS data, one use of Galeniceutiques [N1] results in a remarkable 31.58% improvement in skin brightness. This is attributed to the expertly balanced formula, which optimizes the concentration of pure Vitamin C to a 20% absorption ratio, ensuring maximum absorption. The product also features ActiveAnchor penetration technology, a cutting-edge innovation, targeting the skin's base layers and increasing Vitamin C penetration by 43%, resulting in exceptional results by brightening and evening out the complexion. The exceptional results of Galeniceutiques [N1] have earned widespread recognition from both consumers and industry professionals. Not only has it claimed the title of No.1 high-end brightening essence, but it has also received numerous prestigious awards from leading media outlets such as VOGUE, BAZAAR, and more. SOURCE Galenic Industry recognition highlights Hitachi Vantara's continued leadership and innovation in primary storage, delivering exceptional cloud integration, ransomware protection and enterprise performance SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hitachi Vantara, the data storage, infrastructure, and hybrid cloud management subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), announced today that it has been recognized as a Leader and Outperformer in the latest GigaOm Radar Report for Primary Storage for its Virtual Storage Platform One (VSP One) hybrid cloud data platform. The report evaluated 21 vendors and their capabilities to address the evolving demands of primary storage across traditional applications, hybrid cloud environments, AI/ML workloads and edge computing. For more information about the GigaOm Radar for Primary Storage, visit. https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/gigaom-radar-2024 The GigaOm Radar Report for Primary Storage is a comprehensive evaluation of primary storage solutions, providing insights into the leading vendors based on technical capabilities, innovation, and business value. This year's report highlights the maturity of the primary storage market, with vendors offering advanced features such as AI-driven analytics, ransomware protection, and seamless cloud integration. The report also emphasizes the importance of enterprise-grade functionality in both traditional and software-defined storage options. For this year's evaluation, the report focused on solutions that provide enterprise-grade primary storage functionality, including both traditional storage arrays and software-defined storage options Featured in the Innovation/Platform Play quadrant, VSP One was singled out for its robust performance, cloud integration, and data protection capabilities, achieving the highest maximum scores (5/5) in the following categories: NVMe-oF: Providing innovative support for modern networking, including Nonvolatile Memory Express over Fabrics (NVMe-oF) with both FC and TCP, enabling high-performance applications through flexible and scalable storage network architectures. Providing innovative support for modern networking, including Nonvolatile Memory Express over Fabrics (NVMe-oF) with both FC and TCP, enabling high-performance applications through flexible and scalable storage network architectures. Cloud Integration: Enabling comprehensive and seamless hybrid cloud capabilities, including replication, automated tiering, and virtual appliances, ensuring adaptability for diverse environments. Enabling comprehensive and seamless hybrid cloud capabilities, including replication, automated tiering, and virtual appliances, ensuring adaptability for diverse environments. Ransomware Protection: Delivering robust, data storage-level defenses, including storage immutability, air-gapping, and proactive detection, addressing critical cybersecurity needs. "The primary storage market has dramatically evolved over the last 12 months, as developments in AI, ransomware, and seamless cloud integration have pushed the pace of change," said Whit Walters, Field CTO and Analyst, GigaOm. "To be recognized as a leader requires a company to demonstrate a strong ability to deliver across these areas, and Hitachi Vantara's Virtual Storage Platform One platform embodies their commitment to addressing the critical storage needs of modern enterprises. Their focus on innovation and strong roadmap for the coming year highlights the company's capacity to deliver the adaptability required in today's rapidly evolving IT landscape." Meeting Enterprise Storage Demands The GigaOm Radar report emphasizes the growing importance of primary storage as organizations face challenges managing data growth, ransomware threats and AI/ML integration. A recent survey found the rapid adoption of AI across industries has led to a dramatic increase in the amount of data storage that businesses require, with data storage needs expected to increase 122% in the U.S. by 2026. At the same time, many businesses are concerned about the security and resiliency of their infrastructure, as more than half of U.S. respondents (54%) cited security of data storage as the highest area of concern with their infrastructure, while 74% acknowledge that a significant data loss would be catastrophic to their operations. The GigaOm report highlights how Virtual Storage Platform One stands out for its strong data protection and its ability to support diverse workloadsfrom traditional applications to modern cloud-native and edge-to-core environmentsproviding unmatched scalability, performance, and resiliency. With flexible licensing models, non-disruptive upgrades, and a strong roadmap for innovation, Virtual Storage Platform One is positioned as a forward-thinking data platform for enterprises prioritizing sustainability, cost efficiency, and data security. "This recognition from GigaOm is a testament to the resiliency, performance, scalability and cybersecurity protection capabilities that we provide and that our customers require," said Octavian Tanase, Chief Product Officer at Hitachi Vantara. "VSP One represents our commitment to delivering innovative, customer-focused storage solutions that address the complex challenges of today's data-driven world. By integrating advanced technologies like NVMe-oF and comprehensive ransomware protection, we empower our clients to achieve greater agility and resilience in their IT operations." This latest recognition adds to the strong performance portfolio for Hitachi Vantara reflecting its industry leadership in infrastructure, data management, security and sustainability. VSP One was also recently recognized by ENERGY STAR ,which ranked the data platform in the top three best storage solutions for performance in energy. This aligns with the GigaOm radar report, which highlights sustainability as a strategic imperative. Organizations increasingly evaluate storage solutions based on power efficiency, environmental impact, and overall carbon footprint, not just for ESG compliance but for direct bottom-line benefits. This recognition further solidifies Hitachi Vantara's position as a leader in the competitive data storage market. For more information about Virtual Storage Platform One and its suite of solutions, please visit https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/products/storage-platforms/data-platform. Additional Resources Connect With Hitachi Vantara About Hitachi Vantara Hitachi Vantara is transforming the way data fuels innovation. A wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Ltd., Hitachi Vantara provides the data foundation the world's leading innovators rely on. Through data storage, infrastructure systems, cloud management and digital expertise, the company helps customers build the foundation for sustainable business growth. To learn more, visit www.hitachivantara.com . About Hitachi, Ltd. Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the 3 business sectors of "Digital Systems & Services" supporting our customers' digital transformation; "Green Energy & Mobility" contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railway systems, and "Connective Industries" connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in various industries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company's revenues as 3 sectors for fiscal year 2023 (ended March 31, 2024) totaled 8,564.3 billion yen, with 573 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 270,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com . HITACHI is a trademark or registered trademark of Hitachi, Ltd. All other trademarks, service marks, and company names are properties of their respective owners. SOURCE Hitachi Vantara Scott DeLuzio and Gunner Wagh join esteemed program as Fellows, Stephen Ross named newest Gold Star Fellow WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation announced that Scott DeLuzio and Ganpat "Gunner" Wagh will join the esteemed Operation Jawbreaker Fellowship Program. Stephen Ross is named the newest Gold Star Fellow, succeeding Krista Simpson Anderson. This news was first shared with an exclusive group of advocates and supporters at the 2025 Student Veterans of America National Conference on January 3rd. "I am humbled to welcome DeLuzio, Ross, and Wagh to our Fellowship Program," said Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation President and CEO Michael "Rod" Rodriguez. "Our Fellows exemplify the Foundation's mission of creating one of the most inclusive war Memorials for all. Their selflessness and dedication is unparalleled, highlighting the sacrifices all have made in this ongoing war." The Foundation's Jawbreaker Fellowship Program is named after Operation Jawbreaker, which was the previously classified named operation that deployed CIA personnel to Afghanistan as first boots on the ground just fifteen days after September 11th, 2001. The program's name honors the contributions that non-uniformed personnel have made in the Global War on Terrorism, instilling unity between military and non-military personnel around the organization's mission of building the National Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Scott DeLuzio, Uniformed Veteran Fellow A former Connecticut Army National Guardsman DeLuzio served for six years and earned the Combat Infantryman Badge along with achieving the rank of Sergeant. He is a Gold Star Brother, having tragically lost his younger brother, Sergeant Steven DeLuzio of the Vermont Army National Guard, who was killed in action while they were both deployed in Afghanistan. An author and post-traumatic stress advocate, Scott shares his experiences to promote healing and support for veterans. Stephen Ross, Gold Star Fellow A graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), Ross also received his master's in operations management from the University of Arkansas. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force, mainly at Little Rock AFB, completing that time as a Captain and Missile Launch Crew Commander Instructor. He is currently the Director of Military Student Services at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where he and his team oversee all military-affiliated student support, including monitoring, supporting, and overseeing all students utilizing military educational benefits. Ganpat "Gunner" Wagh, Non-uniformed Veteran Fellow A former U.S. Marine, Wagh retired from the FBI after over 20 years of service in multiple FBI field offices and FBIHQ. While in the FBI, he completed TDY assignments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the Director of Security at Cleveland-Cliffs, leading cybersecurity and security capability development and public sector engagement. He works closely with law enforcement and public sector entities from across the country. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation's Fellowship Program reflects its commitment to representing diverse experiences and backgrounds. The program plays a crucial role in creating a lasting legacy, ensuring that even after the Memorial is built, awareness of the Global War on Terrorism, its heroes, and its profound impact on history continues to grow. "I began my work with GWOTMF as a Gold Star Fellow and personally understand the significance this program holds in honoring all who have served and been impacted in the Global War on Terrorism," said Global War on Terrorism Chief of Staff Jennifer Ballou. "We are so excited to expand this program, welcoming Veteran fellows who have served our country throughout various levels of service." For more information, visit www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/fellows About the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation Formed in 2015 by veterans, military spouses, and supportive Americans, the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial Foundation is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designated by Congress to lead the effort to plan, fund, and build the GWOT Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Our sole mission is to construct an inclusive place of honor for both uniformed and non-uniformed personnel who served and sacrificed as part of global counterterrorism operations since September 11th, 2001. The Memorial will be a place for Americans to honor, heal, be empowered, and unite. The Memorial is being funded entirely by donations; by law no federal government funding will be used. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Learn more by visiting our website. And be sure to follow our progress on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Contact: Meredith McKee [email protected] SOURCE Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwin, a leading charter aviation software company, announced Tuesday it is expanding access to its platform beyond its initial beta group to select members in the industry. The expansion will extend the platform's reach, allowing additional participants to experience Goodwin's cutting-edge solutions and contribute to its ongoing evolution. Goodwin's platform uses technology to streamline three core aspects of the charter booking process: sourcing, proposals and payments. In sourcing, it consolidates aircraft availability from multiple operators into a single, searchable interface, significantly reducing the time brokers spend finding options. The platform also allows brokers to create customized proposals, adjusting margins and fees while tailoring details for clients. An integrated payments system ensures accurate and timely settlements, offering greater transparency and efficiency for operators, brokers, and customers alike. Goodwin Co-Founder, Tolga Demirel notes the beta testing period was key in developing product-market fit and the company will continue to limit access to a small group of industry-leading individuals in the next phase. "Our beta partners were instrumental in shaping the platform," Demirel said. "Over the past year, we implemented more than 300 feature updates and enhancements based on their feedback. We are excited to open the pool slightly, while still keeping it limited to a small number of brokers and operators as we continue progressing through our product roadmap." Demirel shares that these improvements ensure the platform addresses the real-world needs of brokers and operators while remaining user-friendly. "During beta testing, we saw an average 30% reduction in the time brokers spent sourcing and proposing flights," he said. "Additionally, our integrated payments system has reduced processing errors by more than 25%, creating a smoother financial workflow for all parties involved." Goodwin plans to release interviews, visual content, and case studies in the coming weeks to showcase how the platform improves business operations. Charter professionals interested in new tools for sourcing, proposal management and payments are encouraged to inquire. About Goodwin Founded in 2022, Goodwin is headquartered in Ohio with technical talent across the U.S. The company is revolutionizing the charter aviation industry with innovative technology that streamlines charter operations. Goodwin acts solely in a B2B capacity, supporting brokers and operators in digitizing and elevating their workflows, ensuring charter aviation professionals can focus on building meaningful client relationships and scaling their businesses. For more information about how Goodwin is reshaping the charter landscape, please visit www.hellogoodwin.com or follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated. Media Contact: Clara Armagast [email protected] 304-688-5179 SOURCE Goodwin ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- www.juanburgoslaw.com Florida bankruptcy attorney Juan Burgos announces that a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis significantly enhances the financial relief available to Florida residents seeking bankruptcy protection. This law increases the exemption limit on motor vehicles for individuals filing for bankruptcy, offering a critical lifeline to families attempting to retain their primary mode of transportation. The updated law allows individuals to protect up to $5,000 of equity in their vehicles when filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida, up from the previous limit of $1,000. This increase offers more flexibility to those facing financial hardship, enabling them to keep essential assets while pursuing debt relief. Juan Burgos, a 12-year advocate for debt relief and bankruptcy solutions, believes this change is a vital step forward in modernizing Florida's bankruptcy exemptions. "For too long, outdated laws have forced hardworking Floridians to make impossible decisions between keeping their vehicle or finding financial freedom," says Mr. Burgos. "This new exemption means families have a better shot at rebuilding their lives without sacrificing reliable transportation, which is often essential for employment, education, and recovery. Thanks to Governor DeSantis' leadership, Florida residents can now access a fairer path to financial stability." Home of the $1499 Bankruptcy* Affordable, Compassionate Debt Relief *Most cases, filing fees not included To kick off 2025 and as part of his commitment to making debt relief accessible, Mr. Burgos is offering a special "$1499 Bankruptcy" rate for most cases, with filing fees not included. This affordable option is designed to help more Floridians access the financial relief they need without the burden of high legal fees. Virtual Q&A: Breaking Down the New Bankruptcy Benefits To help Florida residents understand the impact of this new law, Mr. Burgos is hosting FREE statewide virtual Q&A sessions on January 23 (English 7PM/ Spanish 8PM) and January 30, 2025 at 7:00 PM (Portuguese). The sessions will cover: The updated motor vehicle exemption and who qualifies. and who qualifies. How the new law applies to Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy . . Key steps to protect your vehicle while achieving financial relief. while achieving financial relief. Other assets protected in bankruptcy, including: Retirement accounts and tax-exempt savings : Includes IRAs, 401(k)s, and savings accounts for education, medical expenses, and hurricanes. Disability, Social Security, and veterans' benefits : Covers disability income benefits, Social Security, unemployment benefits, and veterans' benefits. Wages and life insurance protection : Exempts wages (unless waived in writing) and the cash surrender value of life insurance policies and annuities. Health aids and medical expenses : Protects professionally prescribed health aids for the debtor and their dependents. "Understanding what you can protect during bankruptcy is crucial to regaining peace of mind," Juan says. "Our goal is to educate and empower Floridians to navigate this process effectively, knowing that their financial future can be restored." Floridians can register for the virtual Q&A session here: https://juanburgoslaw.com/bankruptcy-financial-recovery-webinars/ A Compassionate Approach to Debt Relief With years of experience helping clients across Florida, the Burgos law firm provides affordable, compassionate legal support for individuals burdened by debt. Bankruptcy lawyers assist you with navigating complex bankruptcy laws, offering tailored solutions that help clients secure financial relief and a fresh start. Additionally, Juan offers expert guidance in personal injury, corporate law, contract law, and small business advising. As a trilingual attorney, Juan is assists clients in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring accessibility to a broader community of clients in need of legal services. "The start of a new year is the perfect time for a fresh start," Juan adds. "This law arrives at an ideal moment, offering families the opportunity to hold onto what matters most while finding relief from overwhelming financial pressures." If you or someone you know is struggling with debt, Juan Burgos and his team are here to help you regain control of your finances! They offer payment plans and FREE private consultations to ensure that every client receives the legal support they need. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call 407.505.4190 or email [email protected] About Juan Burgos, Attorney at Law Juan Burgos is a Florida-based bankruptcy attorney dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome financial hardship. Juan and his team provide expert guidance and compassionate legal services for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, ensuring clients regain control of their finances and their futures. The firm also focuses on personal injury, corporate law, contract law, and small business advising. Whether you're facing financial difficulties, restructuring your business, or seeking justice for personal injury, Juan Burgos Law is your trusted partner for clarity, support, and a path forward. Reach out now at [email protected] Juan Burgos Law Offices 407.505.4190 [email protected] www.juanburgoslaw.com Connect with Juan on LinkedIn and Facebook SOURCE Juan Burgos Law Offices Nearly 100 million U.S. adults plan to prioritize health and fitness in 2025, as new report highlights affordability challenges and opportunities WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As 2025 begins, a nationwide survey by the Health & Fitness Association (HFA) reveals that health, fitness, and exercise are at the forefront of Americans' New Year's resolutions. Of the estimated 159 million adults planning to set goals, 60%or approximately 96 million Americansintend to focus on health, fitness, and exercise, making it the most popular theme for 2025 goals. Among these fitness-focused individuals, the top aspirations include building muscle or strength (50%), establishing a regular exercise routine (44%), and improving mental health through physical activity (42%). These goals reflect a holistic understanding of fitness, highlighting its benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Nearly 100 million U.S. adults plan to prioritize health and fitness in 2025, affordability remains a concern. Post this To turn these ambitions into action, Americans overwhelmingly recognize the importance of structured exercise spaces such as gyms, studios, and health clubs. Nearly nine-in-ten (88%) say access to fitness facilities will be important to achieving their goals, with 61% rating it very important. Consequently, most plan to maintain their existing membership (58%) or join a new fitness facility in 2025 (23%). Despite the enthusiasm for fitness and exercise, affordability remains a concern. Nearly one-third cite cost as a top factor that might prevent them from achieving their fitness goals in 2025. This tension between ambition and accessibility underscores a broader issue in making health and fitness achievable for all Americans. "Americans are entering the new year with strong ambitions to improve their health and fitness, but financial strain is a real obstacle for many," said Liz Clark, HFA president and CEO. "This represents both a challenge and an opportunity to explore strategic solutions that can make fitness more accessible to everyone." The survey coincides with the release of a new HFA report, Reversing the Physical Inactivity Crisis Fitness Affordability as Strategic Policy. Conducted in collaboration with Portas Consulting, the report explores how public investment in strategic pricing policiessuch as those proposed under the PHIT Actcould expand access to structured exercise and deliver transformative health and economic benefits. Key findings from the report reveal: U.S. fitness facility customers are almost 50% more likely to meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended levels of physical activity compared to non-customers. Investing in a 10% reduction in fitness facility membership fees could enable 17 million more Americans to participate in structured fitness. This modest adjustment could prevent 500,000 chronic disease cases annually, saving $12.2 billion in healthcare costs. in healthcare costs. The resulting growth in fitness participation could stimulate $12.3 billion in consumer spending, create 230,000 jobs, and enhance life satisfaction and community trust for millions. Together, the new survey and report present a roadmap for aligning Americans' fitness goals in 2025 with actionable solutions. "Making fitness affordable is not only about helping people meet their personal goals," Clark emphasized. "It's about fostering healthier communities and unlocking the far-reaching societal benefits that come with increased physical activity." Methodology Kantar, on behalf of the Health and Fitness Association (HFA), conducted an online survey December 19-27, 2024 among a nationally representative sample of 2,000 adult Americans aged 18 and over related to new year's resolutions and 2025 goals. The margin of error is +/- 2 percent and greater among subgroups. The report, Reversing the Physical Inactivity Crisis Fitness Affordability as Strategic Policy, explores the impact of targeted price reductions for fitness facility memberships. Conducted by the Health & Fitness Association in collaboration with Portas Consulting , the study integrates consumer surveys with Portas' proprietary Social Return on Investment (SROI) model to estimate the health, social, and economic impact. The consumer survey, conducted in September 2024, included 1,517 adult Americans. About the Health & Fitness Association The Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA), a global community of industry leaders, is the only worldwide trade association providing a unified voice for the community of leaders who operate health and fitness facilities, offer professional guidance on physical activity, and provide the tools and equipment to do so to the millions of fitness facility members who understand that exercise improves their physical and mental health. Through advocacy, education, and research, the association speaks to opportunities, challenges, and changes that are moving the industry into a new era. Founded in 1981, the association publishes a monthly magazine, Club Business International, and operates The HFA Show and the European Congress. Follow the Health & Fitness Association on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and X . SOURCE Health & Fitness Association WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heffernan Insurance Brokers, one of the largest full-service, independent insurance brokerage firms in the United States, has acquired Green Financial located in Kirkland, Washington. Fred Green, President of Green Financial, and his entire team have joined Heffernan Insurance Brokers' small business division, HeffDirect, effective October 1st, 2024. Founded in 1986 by Fred Green and his father Harry Green, Green Financial helps customers in Washington navigate the state's employee benefits market, individual health plans and Medicare to find the best solutions for clients. Green Financial will contribute to HeffDirect's continued growth in the benefits and financial services markets as Fred, Steve, Julie, Brandy and Summer look to expand in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. "Green Financial is excited to partner with Heffernan Insurance Brokers. We see the opportunity for synergies that will benefit our clients and provide a broader array of services to meet their needs," said Fred Green, now Senior Vice President of Heffernan Insurance Brokers. "Our goal has always been to offer our clients best-in-class service and foster close personal relationships, and Heffernan shares that same passion." "We are thrilled to welcome the team at Green Financial to our small business division, HeffDirect. Their extensive expertise in navigating benefits for clients, combined with their commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, align with our mission to provide comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions to our clients," said F. Michael Heffernan, President, and CEO of Heffernan Insurance Brokers. "This acquisition enhances our capabilities in the Washington market and signifies our dedication to continued growth and expansion nationally." Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Agency Brokerage, a Melbourne Florida firm, served as advisor to Green Financial. About Heffernan Insurance Brokers Heffernan Insurance Brokers, founded in 1988, is one of the largest independent insurance brokerage firms in the United States providing comprehensive business insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits and financial services solutions to a wide range of businesses and individuals. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., Heffernan has a nationwide presence specializing in customized solutions to serve its clients' different needs in virtually every industry. Heffernan has been named on the insurance industry's 'Best Agency to Work For' list, and consistently named a 'Top Corporate Philanthropist'. SOURCE Heffernan Insurance Brokers HERstory Unveiled: Celebrating Leading Woman on New York Times Square Billboard NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Possible Woman Magazine is excited to announce 2nd Annual HERstory Unveiled event, an extraordinary celebration honoring the achievements of women entrepreneurs. Set to take place on March 8, 2025, in the iconic New York Times Square, this event will coincide with International Women's Day and promises an unforgettable experience filled with inspiration and empowerment. HERstory Unveiled will bring together amazing women who shaping the future of entrepreneurship, offering a platform to connect and celebrate. This event features a lineup of remarkable women, including Tysheda Williams, founder of Luxury Travels by Dreamy Designer Events, LLC, and Sara Jane Abbott, owner of See Jane Sparkle. Sara will also style featured women for their NYTS debut, adding a creative flair to this transformative day. Don't miss your chance to be part of this special celebration of women's empowerment, resilience, and success. Secure your spot by visiting https://possiblewomanmagazine.com/iwd-2025-nyts. Spaces are limited, so act fast. What 2024 IWD attendees are saying: "Working with Sharon Ringier on Her Story Unveiled was nothing short of transformative," says Dannelle Stratton of Stratton Financial Solutions a partner with Five Rings Financial. "Traveling to New York to see our photos and the magazine featured on the big screen in Times Square was breathtakinga powerful reminder that our stories and journeys matter. The recognition from prestigious platforms like Yahoo Finance underscored the incredible impact of Possible Woman in celebrating resilience, ambition, and community. I am deeply grateful to Sharon for creating this empowering platform and for giving women the opportunity to share their stories and break barriers." A Platform for Empowerment and Recognition HERstory Unveiled is not just another eventit's a dynamic platform designed to amplify the voices and achievements of women entrepreneurs. Attendees will have unique opportunities to network, collaborate, and build lasting relationships in a supportive environment. Featured women entrepreneurs will gain invaluable exposure on the iconic New York Times Square billboard, offering unparalleled visibility and a significant boost to their brand and professional profiles. This momentous opportunity will connect them with potential investors, collaborators, and mentors, opening doors to new ventures and growth. A Commitment to Women Entrepreneurs Aligned with Possible Woman Magazine's core mission to empower women entrepreneurs, HERstory Unveiled serves as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication of women around the world. By celebrating International Women's Day in the globally recognized setting of Times Square, we send a powerful message about the importance of female leadership in shaping the future of business and the economy. This event is a celebration of the contributions women entrepreneurs make daily and a call to continue fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for women to thrive. Event Partners & Sponsors This year's HERstory Unveiled event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Platinum Sponsor: Stratton Financial Solutions a partner with Five Rings Financial Stratton Financial Solutions a partner with Five Rings Financial Event Sponsor: Citygirl Events Citygirl Events Media Sponsor: BeSpireTV BeSpireTV Silver Sponsor: Waterfront Graphics Sponsorship Opportunities Businesses and organizations interested in aligning with this powerful movement can still join as sponsors. For more details on sponsorship opportunities, visit https://heyzine.com/flip-book/goalgetter-sponsorship . Join Us in Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs Media Contact: Sharon Ringier I'm Possible Women's Magazine +1 847-219-1080 Email: sharon@impossiblewec.com About Possible Woman Magazine Possible Woman Magazine is a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering and celebrating women entrepreneurs by providing them with opportunities to share their expertise and entrepreneurial journeys. Focused on fostering connection, inspiration, and growth, the magazine highlights the achievements of women redefining success and creating lasting impact in their industries. Through engaging features, exclusive events like the HERstory Unveiled series, and resources tailored to ambitious women, Possible Woman Magazine is a cornerstone for female entrepreneurs seeking to thrive and inspire others. For more information, visit https://possiblewomanmagazine.com SOURCE The Possible Woman Magazine TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyde Park Capital announced today that its client, Harney Hardware ("Harney"), a provider of branded door and bathroom hardware, has been acquired by PrimeSource Brands ("PrimeSource"), a leader in specialty building products serving the repair, remodel and new housing segments. PrimeSource is a portfolio company of Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. ("Clearlake"). Hyde Park Capital served as the exclusive investment banker to Harney for this transaction. BakerHostetler served as legal counsel to Harney. Lucites with image - Harney Hardware Lucite w image - full size Tom Koos, CEO of PrimeSource Brands, stated: "The Harney team has developed an impressive portfolio of products that complements our existing offerings. The acquisition of Harney further advances our mission to create the leading branded specialty building products platform with the most extensive service network in the industry." Preston Copenhaver, President and Owner of Harney Hardware, commented: "The Harney Hardware team is excited to join the PrimeSource Brands family. Our focus has always been on delivering quality products and maintaining high customer satisfaction, which are values that the PrimeSource team holds in high regard. I'm confident this step will secure a bright future for the business and everyone who's been a part of its journey." Mr. Copenhaver also added, "The Hyde Park Team's expertise, persistence, and dedication demonstrated throughout the process were critical to achieving this successful outcome. I'm very grateful to have had Hyde Park as my trusted advisor throughout this process." Matthew Gladdish, Director at Hyde Park Capital, reflected on the transaction: "It has been a privilege to advise Preston and the Harney team throughout this process. Harney's catalogue of door and bathroom hardware is a great match for the PrimeSource platform. We are pleased to have helped Harney achieve this outcome and are excited to see the business continue to grow." Luke Horanski, Vice President at Hyde Park, added: "Preston and his team were a pleasure to work with. The combination of product offering and distribution strategy made PrimeSource a natural fit, and we could not be more excited for the partnership. We are very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with the Harney, PrimeSource, and Clearlake teams." About Harney Hardware Founded in 1985 and headquartered in the Tampa Bay, FL area, Harney Hardware is a manufacturer and distributor of value-engineered door and bathroom hardware products. Harney offers a robust product line including bathroom hardware sets, residential door locks, plumbing fixtures, ceiling fans and accessories, decorative hardware, door bolts and latches, door stops and hinges, bathroom grab bars, commercial door hardware, and shower rods. Harney has cultivated relationships that enable the company to provide a diverse selection of high-quality products to customers across the U.S. Harney's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established it as a trusted name in the hardware industry. For additional information, please visit https://www.harneyhardware.com/. About PrimeSource PrimeSource Brands is a national provider of specialty branded residential building products. The Company's product offering spans more than 85,000 SKUs, including construction fasteners, cabinet knobs & pulls, and functional hardware, among others. PrimeSource Brands operates an expansive footprint, serving over 45,000 customer locations through 58 strategically located distribution centers in 26 states. PrimeSource Brands plays a crucial role for customers who rely on its brand value, breadth of offering and logistics capabilities. For additional information, please visit https://psbrands.com/. About Clearlake Founded in 2006, Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. is an investment firm operating integrated businesses across private equity, credit and other related strategies. With a sector-focused approach, the firm seeks to partner with experienced management teams by providing patient, long-term capital to dynamic businesses that can benefit from Clearlake's operational improvement approach, O.P.S. The firm's core target sectors are technology, industrials and consumer. Clearlake currently has over $85 billion of assets under management and its senior investment principals have led or co-led over 400 investments. The firm is headquartered in Santa Monica, CA with affiliates in Dallas, TX, London, UK and Dublin, Ireland, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi, UAE. For additional information, please visit https://clearlake.com/. About Hyde Park Capital Hyde Park Capital is an institutionally focused boutique investment banking firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions and focusing on serving the corporate finance needs of successful founder and family-owned companies. Hyde Park's principals have extensive investment banking experience managing merger and acquisition engagements, including executing sell-side and buy-side sale of company assignments, recapitalizations, financial advisory services, fairness opinions, and raising growth capital and acquisition financing for companies, including equity, mezzanine, and senior debt. Hyde Park Capital has extensive experience across numerous industry sectors, including industrial, technology, healthcare, business, and financial services. Hyde Park Capital is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and is a member of FINRA and SIPC. Hyde Park Capital is also a member of the Geneva Capital Group (GCG) International M&A Alliance (see www.gcg.com). For additional information, please visit www.hydeparkcapital.com. Media Contacts: Matthew Gladdish Director [email protected] 813-383-0203 Luke Horanski Vice President [email protected] 813-574-1182 SOURCE Hyde Park Capital Justin Alexander Group unveiled its online shopping platform, Justin Alexander Studio , offering customizable special occasion gowns deliverable in just two weeks, bridging the gap between short delivery times that digital shoppers have come to expect with the option for custom dresses that traditional bridal shoppers are accustomed to purchasing. These looks are made to order in the USA, produced with sustainable production practices and made by the brand's tailors within two weeks of purchase. "We understand that weddings come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own timeline - Not every bride has or needs months leading up to their big (or intimate) day or special occasion," states Justin Warshaw, CEO of Justin Alexander Group. "We want to recognize the uniqueness of each bride and bridal party by offering gowns that are customizable to their preferences and still available in a short delivery window." This concept emphasizes sustainability by reducing its carbon footprint through US-based production, while leveraging advanced technology to streamline customization and reduce waste. The platform also sells intimates, casual wear, home and personal fragrance and limited edition pieces from its collaborations. One of those collaborations launched in April 2024 married graffiti street art with traditional bridal designs. Justin Alexander Signature partnered with Milan-based street artist, Sexsdreams , born Gioele Corradengo, for their Spring/Summer 2025 campaign, "Verses in Contrast." The collaboration was first teased during New York Bridal Fashion Week and then brought to life on the runway in a well attended show at Milano Bridal Week. It is another example of the group taking a bold step forward and pushing the boundaries between traditional and modern looks for today's bride. That philosophy also came to life in the brand's FW25 collection, Nocturne Symphony, which was unveiled at New Bridal Fashion Week in October. Nocturne Symphony is a collection inspired by the night and designed for the bride who dares to dream. This season begins with signature modern seaming and structured corsets, harmonizing with unexpected elements like exaggerated basque waists and couture volume. As the collection crescendos, it introduces gowns adorned with intricate 3D florals, laser-cut appliques, and rich floral jacquards and brocades. Silver crystal diamantes, pearls, and corded Alencon laces add a touch of brilliance. The Fall/Winter 2025 collection is a beautifully orchestrated composition of artistry and design. As a household name in the bridal industry, the brand also kicked off an educational partnership series this year with the prestigious London College of Fashion and Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York, two institutions renowned for their rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge design and technology. Under Warshaw's oversight, London College of Fashion students focused on cultural sustainability while FIT students in New York were asked to delve deep into the decadent bridal history of the 1920s to 1970s. The program set new paradigms to inspire change that resonates with evolving cultural and fashion landscapes, accomplished through Warshaw's mentorship of the students, engaging with them through guest lectures and providing feedback on their designs and concepts. Also in 2024, Justin Alexander Group, its leadership and its brands were recognized throughout the world for excellence in bridal. At the European Bridal Awards, Justin Alexander Group was named Best Bridal Supplier. At the Bridal Buyer Awards, the Justin Alexander Grove gown was acknowledged as Best Gown. The company has received such honors consistently dating back to 2001. On the philanthropic front, VOW For Girls is Justin Alexander Group's chosen charity partner because their mission aligns with the company's values of enabling girls and women to access better opportunities to improve their lives. $10 from every product sold from the Thanks & Goodluck accessories line goes to Vow For Girls and has resulted in over $110k in donations this year, facilitating programs such as girls' leadership clubs and community programs and helping to keep girls in school. Support for VOW For Girls will continue into 2025, along with the expansion into new categories including shoes, jewelry and more via the Studio platform so the brand can cater to the bridal party and beyond. For more information about Justin Alexander Bridal Group and its family of brands, follow @justinalexander on Instagram and visit www.justinalexander.com. About Justin Alexander Group: American-owned and headquartered bridal company, Justin Alexander Group, encompasses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including Justin Alexander Signature , Justin Alexander , Adore by Justin Alexander , Lillian West , Sincerity Bridal , Thanks&Goodluck , as well as esteemed luxury partners Viktor&Rolf Mariage and Savannah Miller . Headquartered in New Jersey, the company owns and operates distribution centers servicing 70 countries and over 2,200 boutiques worldwide, providing outstanding service to wholesale partners and brides globally. Through innovative creativity, successful omni-channel marketing, and a commitment to inclusivity, the brand continues to enchant brides worldwide and solidify its position as home to leading bridal brands. You can learn about Justin Alexander Group by visiting www.justinalexander.com and follow along on Instagram @justinalexander. SOURCE Justin Alexander Fast-Growing Luxury Boarding and Dog Daycare Franchise Solidifies Position as Industry Leader with Impressive Expansion Franchise Development Strategy Fueled by Responsible Growth Generates Double-Digit Agreements and Openings A $10M investment, Partnerships with Quality Franchisees and a Strengthened Leadership Team Led to a Milestone Year BERKELEY HEIGHTS, N.J., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the $150B pet industry continues to soar, K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel is primed to reach new heights as it grows its brand footprint. In 2024, the brand cemented its reputation as an industry leader with 32 secured franchise agreements, a 33% increase in open locations compared to last year, and a more than 10% increase in average unit volumes for locations open more than one year. With a commitment to excellence, K9 Resorts continues to set the bar through unprecedented growth. As K9 Resorts steps into its 20th anniversary year, the brand sets its sights on opening 25 new resorts and awarding more than 30 franchise licenses in 2025. "Our 2024 growth story isn't just about numbers, it's about people," said Jason Parker, Co-Founder and CEO of K9 Resorts. "We have welcomed an impressive roster of franchisees who come from systems like McDonald's and Planet Fitness, which further validates the strength of our brand. These seasoned entrepreneurs understand how to build businesses that deliver exceptional experiences." Driven by Operational Excellence and Market Expansion The brand's performance metrics in 2024 underlines its dominance in the sector. K9 Resorts' annual volumes are more than two times the industry average on a revenue-per-square-foot basis, while resort-level EBITDA is nearly double the industry standard. K9 Resorts kicked off the year by securing a $10 million investment to fuel continued expansion, enabling the brand to meet surging demand in untapped markets. This momentum was amplified with multi-unit agreements to bring several additional resorts to Colorado, Virginia, and Florida as well as debuting in Utah, Nevada, Illinois, and Nebraska. The brand also began construction on its first location in California, which will open in early 2025 near LAX airport, serving the needs of traveling pet parents throughout the Los Angeles area. Unrivaled Leadership Paired with Innovation and Excellence This year also saw the appointment of Dan Wheeler as Chief Marketing Officer. Wheeler's extensive experience brings additional expertise to the leadership team as K9 Resorts prepares for another record-breaking year. As K9 Resorts grew its team and continued to innovate, it caught the attention of many. Always maintaining its commitment to excellence in pet care, the brand was honored with the prestigious 2024 Pet Care Business Excellence Award from the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA) for the fifth year. Additionally, Co-Founder Steven Parker received the 2024 Founders Award from the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC) for making significant contributions to the industry. Further celebrating the contributions of franchisees and team members who drive the brand's success were internal honors such as Customer Service Representative of the Year, Pet Care Technician of the Year, and the 300 Club - a distinctive honor for resorts that surpassed $300 in revenue per square foot for the year. The leadership team also announced the inaugural recipient of the Parker Award: Kim Tryon, franchise owner of the Mount Pleasant K9 Resort in South Carolina. This coveted award recognizes the top franchisee in the system who has maintained the highest standards across every aspect of the business, from revenue to guest satisfaction and facility excellence. Setting Sights on a Record-Breaking 2025 As K9 Resorts steps into its 20th anniversary year, the brand sets its sights on opening 25 new resorts and awarding more than 30 franchise licenses in 2025. As the brand expands its footprint into new territories next year, it will continue to innovation and maintain operational excellence with the modernization of its technology stack and expansion of its field support to provide franchisees with enhanced tools and resources for success. "Our number one priority as a company is the profitability of our franchisees," added Parker. "With a growing pipeline of franchisees and a dedicated corporate team, 2025 promises to be a year of transformational growth while we continue to deliver strong performance and a five-star experience for every four-legged guest and their pet parent." K9 Resorts is leading the pack among luxury pet care franchises with more than 170 resorts across 28 states currently operating or in various stages of development. With pet boarding expected to become a $35.8 billion industry by 2031, K9 is poised to further dominate the sector with its proven franchise opportunity. K9 Resorts is actively seeking single and multi-unit owners to bring luxury pet boarding and daycare to their community. To learn more about the K9 Resorts franchise opportunity, visit www.k9franchise.com. To learn more about K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotels, visit www.k9resorts.com. About K9 Resorts K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel (www.k9resorts.com) strives to offer the best pet care experience for all the dogs in its care and has been honored with five IBPSA Pet Care Business Excellence Awards, the highest level of recognition within the pet industry. Founded in 2005, by Steven & Jason Parker, each K9 Resort is custom-designed with hospital-grade ventilation systems, antimicrobial flooring, cage-free luxury boarding and world-class, professionally trained staff members. Steven Parker was also the recipient of the 2024 Founders Award from the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC), a prestigious recognition for making significant contributions to the industry. Recommended by numerous pet professionals and several major publications, K9 Resorts is proud to lead the way in the pet hospitality industry. SOURCE K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel N.J.-based direct, private lender closes second loan in a week for 21-home subdivision ENGLEWOOD, N.J., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kennedy Funding, a New Jersey-based direct, private lender, announced that it has closed a $1.883 million loan to Axe Lake Resort Inc., based in Ontario, Canada. This is the second loan that Kennedy Funding has closed within a week. The borrower, Axe Lake Resort Inc., plans to use proceeds from the loan to acquire 124.74 acres across two undeveloped parcels of land on the province's McMurrich/Monteith Township, part of the Almaguin Highlands area in northern Ontario. The parcels, located at 52171-0627 Woodland Drive, are part of a resort currently under construction in the Axe Lake hamlet within the township. One portion of the raw land, totaling 74.74 acres, is the third phase of the development, and includes a proposed 21-lot subdivision to build single-family homes. The remaining 50 acres will be built out in the sixth phase of the development. "Closing challenging loans is nothing new for Kennedy Funding, but closing two loans in a week is noteworthy and a testament to our ability to find ways to say 'yes' to borrowers," said Kevin Wolfer, President and CEO, Kennedy Funding. "It's especially notable because this deal with Axe Lake Resort was for a land loan outside the U.S., which makes closings especially challenging." The second loan closed by Kennedy Funding in the same week was a $1.445 million working capital loan for an events and hospitality space in Wallkill, New York. "We've made a name for ourselves as lenders who look for ways to say 'yes' when other lenders say 'no,'" Wolfer said. "Closing two loans in one week demonstrates our commitment to helping borrowers get the funding they need to succeed." Edwin Urrego, Executive Loan Officer at Kennedy Funding, highlighted Kennedy Funding's extensive experience closing loans on raw land and in international markets, two factors that automatically put these deals out of the running at nearly all U.S.-based financial institutions. Kennedy Funding is renowned for closing loans around the globe that other U.S. lenders won't touch, thanks to their expertise in navigating international local laws and red tape. They have successfully funded projects across South America, the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, St. Maarten, the Bahamas, Belize, St. Barts, and more. "Raw land is considered a risky investment by almost every conventional lender in the U.S., especially raw land deals located outside the country," Urrego said, noting that the borrower is using the land as collateral. "We're not here to turn down borrowers, though. We're here to examine the merits of the deal and make informed decisions based on the borrower's plans and vision." The quaint, rural township of McMurrich/Monteith has a population of less than 1,000 people and is located around 3.5 hours north of Toronto. The area is a popular destination for hunting, snowmobiling, hiking, and boating. Axe Lake, which is immediately adjacent to the new development, is a popular warm water fishing destination for the Ontario area. "The new development will open this beautiful area to more visitors who want to appreciate the natural beauty that Ontario has to offer," Urrego said. Aside from the tourism the area draws, the province of Ontario expects to benefit from job-creating new investments projected to roll out over the next few years. Notably, Honda is investing $15 billion into building electric vehicle (EV) factories, an initiative that's expected to add at least 1,000 jobs to Ontario's labor market. "Although challenging economic conditions have affected Canada for the past few years, housing demand in Ontario is expected to grow steadily," Urrego said. "These strong demographic trends are boosting residential and vacation investment opportunities in the province, making new developments like Axe Lake Resort a hot commodity going into 2025 and beyond." For more information about Kennedy Funding, visit www.KennedyFunding.com. About Kennedy Funding Kennedy Funding is a global direct private lender specializing in bridge loans for commercial property and land acquisition, development, workouts, bankruptcies, and foreclosures. Kennedy Funding has closed more than $4 billion in loans to date. Their creative financing expertise provides funding up to 75% loan-to-value, from $1 million ($3 million international) to more than $50 million in as little as five days. The company has closed loans throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Canada, and Central and South America. www.kennedyfunding.com SOURCE Kennedy Funding, Inc. GAINESVILLE, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- King Risk Partners, a rapidly growing insurance broker with offices throughout the broader Eastern and Southeastern regions of the United States, is excited to announce the acquisition of Viper Risk Management Group, a hard-working independent insurance agency in Saint Johns, Florida. This acquisition is another step forward in King Risk Partners' dedication to offering a comprehensive range of insurance solutions across various markets. King Risk Partners Viper Risk Management Group, an independent insurance agency based in Saint Johns, has proudly served clients throughout Northeast Florida. They built an impressive reputation for providing specialized insurance solutions for racetracks/motorsports, manufacturers, part warehouses, restaurants & taverns, construction, transportation, manufacturing, retail services, and distribution industries. "Viper Risk Management Group is an exceptionally talented agency, and we are delighted to welcome them to the King Risk Partners family," said Malcolm King, CEO of King Risk Partners. "Their expertise in delivering tailored risk management solutions across a variety of industries makes them a valuable asset to our team and an excellent resource for our clients." "We are thrilled about our partnership with King Risk Partners," said Shawn Martin, President of Viper Risk Management Group. "This collaboration marks a pivotal advancement for our agency. Our shared values and aligned goals create a strong foundation for success, allowing us to maintain our commitment to delivering customized insurance solutions and exceptional service to our clients. With the expanded resources and expertise of King Risk Partners, we are poised to broaden our offerings, reach new markets, and elevate the value we provide." About King Risk Partners King Risk Partners is a leader in the insurance industry, offering a wide range of insurance products and services designed to meet the diverse needs of its clientele. Known for its integrity, professionalism, and commitment to customer satisfaction, King Risk Partners continues to be a top choice for clients seeking reliable and comprehensive insurance solutions. Learn more at www.king-insurance.com . For additional information, please contact: King Risk Partners [email protected] SOURCE King Risk Partners The first-ever product designed to support women's endocrine system launches at Target stores nationwide alongside three other O Positiv Health best-sellers, marking a massive retail expansion for the brand. LOS ANGELES, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- O Positiv Health, makers of the nation's #1 vaginal probiotic, PMS relief gummy, and menopause relief gummy1, introduces its latest groundbreaking innovation in the women's health space: FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder. FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder from women's health brand O Positiv In today's world, plagued with endocrine disruptors, there remains a lack of knowledge on how to support the endocrine system. O Positiv Health aims to address that issue with FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder which supports total body hormonal balance in a daily nutrient superfood packed powder that targets the endocrine system to support stress, weight, skin and mood, providing a simple all-in-one solution. FLO Endocrine Superfood Powder marks a significant milestone in O Positiv Health's retail growth, now available in over 1,400 Target stores nationwide. Launching alongside the new superfood powder are the brand's MENO Vaginal Moisture Capsules, FLO Ovarian Support Capsules, and URO Intimate Deodorant, all debuting at Target this month. These new offerings join O Positiv Health's existing line of best-sellers in Target's intimate care aisle, continuing to revolutionize women's health with products that support them from their first period to well beyond their last. FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder was designed to fulfill a significant market demand for hormone balancea topic misunderstood and underrepresented in current women's health discussions. 80% of women suffer from a hormone imbalance in a study conducted by Northwell Health with over 600 women. Despite this staggering statistic, many healthcare providers are unable to provide relief for patients suffering from hormone disruptors and negative changes in their hormone health. In a market full of daily greens powders and multivitamins, there is a glaring void of a daily nutrient powder that is designed for both women's health and overall hormone balance. FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder contains a cutting edge formulation designed to aid women in managing stress, fatigue, unexplained weight gain, and unpredictable periods. Key ingredients in FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder include rhodiola, which supports a healthy stress response; l-theanine, which promotes relaxation and a sense of calm; artichoke leaf extract, supporting your body's natural detox systems: DIM, a compound used to support healthy hormone balance and hormonal weight management: b complex, using cellular energy production to support healthy weight management and energy levels: along with selenium and iodine, which are minerals involved in healthy thyroid function. Flo Women's Endocrine Superfood powder is also sugar free, gluten free, non-gmo and only 10 calories per serving with a delicious strawberry lemonade flavor. "I know firsthand how challenging it can be to make sense of your own hormone health," said Co-Founder of O Positiv Health, Brianna Bitton, "It took me years to realize I even needed an endocrinologist, and even longer to find a great one. We created this product for women like me who want a simple, enjoyable way to feel confident about their hormone healthand alleviate all the symptoms that come with hormone dysfunction. At O Positiv, we continue to support women through all stages of their life in their health journey. We're thrilled to bring this product to our existing product assortment at Target." O Positiv Health continues to be dedicated to its mission of prioritizing and advocating for women's health by providing effective solutions for health concerns that have been historically overlooked. With an extensive product range dedicated to addressing issues related to hormonal, vaginal, digestive, urinary, menstrual, and menopausal health; O Positiv has firmly established itself as a premier women's health advocate and supporter. O Positiv's product line spans from vaginal health (viral sensation and #1 on Amazon), menopause (#1 OB/GYN recommended menopause gummy*) to PMS (first-ever PMS vitamin), and remains at the forefront of women's health, no matter where they are in their journey. Dr. Sasha Hakman, O Positiv's leading endocrinologist on their medical advisory board, explains that the endocrine system is uniquely complex due to monthly hormone fluctuations, prevalence of endocrine disorders and conditions unique to women (like PCOS), the many endocrine disruptors in beauty and selfcare products, reproductive systems, and more. Dr. Sasha Hakman is a distinguished highly awarded physician in Beverly Hills with dual board certifications in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI). Dr. Hakman says "As doctors, we don't talk enough about the endocrine system, yet it plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Understanding and supporting this system is essential for physical and mental well-being. I recommend FLO Endocrine Superfood to my patients seeking balance and relief." About O Positiv Health O Positiv Health is the health brand prioritizing women by creating effective products to address health concerns that have been historically overlooked. O Positiv Health aims to break taboos with a line of products to address vaginal, skin, digestive, menstrual and menopausal health. O Positiv Health continues to expand their range of products: favorites include - FLO PMS Gummies & Capsules, URO Vaginal Probiotic Capsules and MENO Menopause Gummies & Capsules among others. To further advocate for women's health, O Positiv Health works closely with the American Cancer Society and is their leading sponsor of their annual 5K in Santa Monica, California. FLO Women's Endocrine Superfood Powder retails for $44.99 and is available in Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com and OPositiv.com. Follow O Positiv on Instagram and TikTok at @opositiv. Press Contact: Shauna Aminzadeh/Break Point [email protected] 1 Target Corp-RMA L26W Ending 11.3.24 SOURCE O Positiv New Levoit stick and tower vacuums, humidifiers, and air purifiers have optimized home wellness at their corefor people, kids, and pets LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Levoit, VeSync's premier smart home wellness brand, is unveiling a powerful new lineup of products at CES 2025. From a self-emptying tower vacuum to humidifiers and air purifiers designed uniquely for family and pet households, Levoit is challenging "one-size-fits-all" industry standards with cutting-edge products that turn ordinary, even unrefined, spaces into personalized havens of wellness. Levoit Sprout Air Purifier Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier Levoit VortexIQ 60 Tower Vacuum: Bridging the gap between those who enjoy cleaning and those who don't, this self-emptying vacuum and included cleaning station deliver the highest level of performance with the least amount of effort, so that all household members can partake in making home feel like their own, without getting their hands dirty. The 550W brushless DC electric motor (BLDC motor) delivers high power, low noise, low maintenance, and long motor lifespan for incredible overall lifetime value. The 5-stage filtration system with a HEPA filter, large 3.5-liter dust bag, and Air Pulse dust collection technology capture 99.99% of 0.310-micron particles, including dust, pollen, and pet dander. The TripleStrike anti-tangle roller brush reduces the hassle of detangling the vacuum head after each use to maintain the vacuum's peak performance. The VortexIQ 60 Tower Vacuum will be available in Q1 for $579 on Amazon and levoit.com. Levoit LVAC-300 Stick Vacuum: Keeping a clean and comfortable home doesn't have to be a daunting task. A successor to the highly rated LVAC-200, the upcoming LVAC-300 features a new BLDC motor and 5-stage filtration with a HEPA filter to increase power, efficacy, efficiency, and overall lifetime value. The compact and lightweight design features a powerful 240W BLDC motor, making the vacuum effective for cleaning various floor types and furniture with ease. The vacuum's TripleStrike anti-tangle roller brush helps prevent tangling while picking up dirt and hair while LED headlights illuminate dust and debris in its path. Weighing less than 4 pounds, the vacuum's removable battery, easy disassembly design, and washable filters make maintenance a breeze. The LVAC-300 will be available in Q1 for $349 on Amazon and levoit.com. Levoit Sprout Air Purifier: Designed with parents in mind and inspired by the power of a good night's rest, the Levoit Sprout Air Purifier is set to be one of the smartest air purifiers with a HEPA filter on the market, showcasing a customizable night light, a variety of ambient white noise options, and multi-factor air quality sensor for peace of mind. Three-stage filtration with a HEPA filter traps at least 99.97% of 0.10.3-micron airborne particles, such as dust, smoke, pollen, and pet dander, while the High-Efficiency Activated Carbon Filter reduces at least 90%* of VOC, NH3, SO2, NO2, and butyric acid in 30 minutes. Parents can rest easy knowing their children's rooms are being effectively monitored for PM1, PM2.5, PM10, TVOC, and CO2 levels with an in-app analysis that is easy to understand. With a selection of ambient white noises and customizable night light, parents can create a comfortable and peaceful environment for their child. With the VeSync app, users can control settings, check filter life, create schedules, connect to third-party voice assistants, and view real-time air quality reports. The Sprout Air Purifier will be available Q1 for $279 on Amazon and levoit.com. *Tested in an enclosed 3-cubic-meter chamber. Levoit Sprout Evaporative Humidifier: The Sprout Evaporative Humidifier is inspired by parents wanting the best for their kids, starting with the air they breathe. This evaporative humidifier uses an air filter to help cleanse the air intake before putting moisture back into the air. The separate sensor (perfect for placing near a child's crib or bed) helps parents view and customize the room's humidity level. This 19W evaporative humidifier humidifies air in spaces up to 219 sq. ft. The dishwasher-safe tank keeps water separate from the electrical components. Auto Dry Mode helps dry out the wick filters after each use, which aids in preventing mold growth. Advanced night light settings help create a warm environment that encourages rest for parents and their little ones. The Sprout Evaporative Humidifier will be available in Q1 for $189 on Amazon and levoit.com. Levoit Pet Odor & Hair Air Purifier: Pet parents no longer have to worry about the smell of their home. Poised to be the industry's first pet-specific odor detection air purifier with behavior anticipation, this upcoming air purifier features a motion detection system that adjusts settings based on household activity, helping to eliminate odors before they spread to other parts of the home. The unique airflow design and purification system features a customized 4-stage filter including an Activated Carbon Filter to effectively tackle pet odors. It can quickly detect key substances like isovaleric acid, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide and adjust the fan speed accordingly to help control smells. The VeSync app's AI-powered Smart Scene technology creates intelligent routines for the air purifier such as increasing airflow when a user goes out to walk their dog and automatically reducing it when they return home. With the VeSync app, users will be able to visualize odor levels and trends, track purification task countdowns, access air analysis reports, and monitor remaining filter life. The Pet Odor and Hair Air Purifier will be available in Q2 for $199 on Amazon, and $249 for the self-cleaning model, at major retailers. For more information, please visit: https://levoit.com/. The products and features described herein are currently under development and subject to change. Any specifications, functions, or availability discussed are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee, promise, or warranty. Final products may vary from those described, and timelines for release are subject to adjustment. The company reserves the right to modify, delay, or cancel product launches without prior notice. About Levoit Levoit elevates home wellness. From the air you breathe to the ground you walk on, we design smart humidifiers, air purifiers, vacuums, and fans that transform your home into a space of ease and comfort. Our app gives you full control of your home base, enabling you to monitor air quality, adjust humidity, and set timers and schedules with the tap of a screen. As part of the VeSync Family of Brands, Levoit continues our company's mission to build the home of the future. Learn more at www.levoit.com SOURCE Levoit THORP, Wis., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Marieke Penterman, founder and owner of Marieke Gouda, has achieved the prestigious Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker certification, cementing her legacy as one of the world's finest cheesemakers. Notably, Marieke is only the fourth woman to earn this highly respected title, a testament to her exceptional skill and dedication to the craft. Master Cheesemaker Marieke Penterman in the cheese aging room "When I began making cheese, my dream was to recreate the gouda I grew up with in the Netherlands," Marieke shared. "Becoming a certified Master Cheesemaker is a true honor and a reflection of my unwavering commitment to crafting the highest quality cheese that I am proud to put my name on." The Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Certification is one of the most esteemed recognitions in the dairy industry. "This certification is not easily earned," said Chad Vincent, CEO of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. "Only a select few achieve the title of Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker, making it a mark of unparalleled expertise and dedication." Marieke's cheeses have garnered international acclaim, earning over 270 national and international awards, and have become synonymous with world-class quality, combining traditional Dutch methods with Wisconsin's rich cheesemaking heritage. The journey to becoming a Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker is rigorous, requiring at least 13 years of professional cheesemaking experience and advanced training. Marieke now joins an elite group of cheesemakers whose expertise sets the gold standard for quality and innovation in the industry. For Marieke, this milestone is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the artistry and passion that define her life's work. It's a tribute to the family traditions that inspired her and the community and team that supports her every step of the way. About Marieke Gouda: Marieke Gouda produces premium, award-winning cheeses crafted, with passion. using milk from our own dairy cows. Each step of the process, from milking to aging happens under Marieke's watchful eye. Our dedication to traditional Dutch cheesemaking methods ensures authentic flavors and unparalleled quality. Learn more about us and our cheese at MariekeGouda.com. About Wisconsin Cheese: The tradition of cheesemaking excellence began more than 180 years ago before Wisconsin was recognized as a state. With 90% of the State's cow's milk being turned into cheese, Wisconsin's 1,200 cheesemakers, many of whom are third- and fourth-generation, continue to pass on old-world traditions while adopting modern innovations in cheesemaking craftsmanship. Wisconsin has won more awards for its cheese than any other state or country. For more information, visit WisconsinCheese.com or connect on Facebook. About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin: Funded by Wisconsin dairy farmers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that focuses on marketing and promoting Wisconsin's world-class dairy. SOURCE Marieke Gouda ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- After two inspiring nights of preliminary competition, during which 52 delegates from across the United States and Puerto Rico showcased their talents, interview skills, and community service achievements, Abbie Stockard, representing her home state as Miss Alabama, was crowned Miss America 2025. The 22-year-old from Birmingham, Alabama, impressed the esteemed panel of judges in all phases of the competition, securing her position as the 104th woman to earn the title and join the sisterhood of iconic and inspirational women. A lifelong advocate for Cystic Fibrosis, Abbie was named the "2024 Hero of Hope" by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Having personally raised over $200,000 for CF research, she will continue her work as a national advocate while preparing for her career as a Pediatric Nurse Anesthetist. Over the past three years of her involvement in the program, Abbie Stockard has been awarded $89,000 in tuition scholarships, which she will use to fund her education at Auburn University College of Nursing and pursue further studies. "I have successfully worked to bring people and organizations together, leveraging the power of motivated stakeholders and changemakers, and I am ready to channel the message of Miss America as a strategic vehicle for ambitious young women to accomplish their dreams," said Abbie. Hosted by Nikki Novak and Terrence J., the final round of competition took place at the Walt Disney Theatre at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, FL, before a sold-out audience of over 2,600 attendees. Each year, the Miss America opportunity awards more than $5 million in tuition scholarships and provides millions more in in-kind scholarships through its national, state, and local programs. As Miss America, Abbie will travel the world as the official brand ambassador for the Miss America program. About Miss America Miss America is the nation's premier empowerment platform for young women, advancing their personal and professional goals while advocating serving as a positive role model in their communities. With a rich history dating back to 1921, Miss America's mission is "Empowering women to Lead" engaging thousands of young women as local and state brand ambassadors, ages 14-28, nationwide each year committed to community service initiatives. The program is the largest provider of women's scholarships in America, distributed through the Miss America's Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3). Contact: The Miss America Press Team Email: [email protected] SOURCE Miss America Organization Succeeds Leigh Hamby, M.D., Who Is Retiring after More than Two Decades of Service to Piedmont ATLANTA, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Piedmont has named Moiz Master, M.D., as chief medical officer of its system, effective Jan. 20, 2025. Dr. Master has served as the system's assistant chief medical officer (CMO) since 2021 and as CMO of Piedmont Mountainside Hospital since 2014. Dr. Master succeeds Leigh Hamby, M.D., who retired at the end of the year after more than two decades of dedicated service to Piedmont. Among Dr. Master's achievements are leading Piedmont Mountainside to 19 straight A grades the longest streak in Georgia from the Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit that rates hospitals on patient safety. He also led a team that brought about a 50 percent reduction in excess stay days, which, in turn, increased capacity to the system equivalent to 150 beds, allowing Piedmont to serve more patients, more efficiently and more expeditiously. He has also served on the Piedmont Healthcare Board since 2019. Dr. Master's achievements include leading Piedmont Mountainside to 19 straight A grades from the Leapfrog Group. Post this "Dr. Master brings a wealth of clinical and health care leadership experience to the role," Piedmont Healthcare President and CEO Kevin Brown said. "With over 25 years as a health care leader and practicing internist, he has extensive experience focusing on clinical excellence and patient care through innovative collaborations and will continue to enhance Piedmont's reputation as a center of clinical excellence. He has served as the Director of quality and on numerous boards and committees, leading multidisciplinary teams that improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency." Dr. Master earned his medical degree from Topiwala National Medical College in Mumbai, India. He started out as a resident in orthopedics at LTM Hospital and general surgery at the Bombay Institute of Medical Sciences, both in India, before moving to the United States where he joined the University of Connecticut School of Medicine to do his residency in Internal Medicine, and stay on an extra year as Chief Resident. "I also want to acknowledge Leigh's remarkable contributions to Piedmont," Brown said of the retiring Dr. Hamby. "Since joining Piedmont Atlanta in 2001, he has been a driving force behind Piedmont's transformation and continuous improvement. I am incredibly grateful for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he established the system COVID command center and brought together key leaders from across Piedmont to solve the unique problems posed by the virus and ensure the safety and well-being of our patients and staff." Dr. Hamby will continue serving part-time as a senior performance improvement lead at the Piedmont Clinic. SOURCE Piedmont Healthcare BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, January 7. The Chairman of the Kyrgyzstan Cabinet of Ministers will meet with his counterparts from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to discuss state border issues, Trend reports via the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers, will meet with Uzbekistan's Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov and Tajikistan's Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda on January 8 of this year. The talks will focus on previously reached agreements between the presidents of the three countries regarding state borders. To note, the state border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan stretches for about 980 kilometers. Negotiations on its delimitation (defining the state border with a description and mapping of its course) have been ongoing since December 2002. On December 4, 2024, it was announced that the description of the shared border section had been completed. The Kyrgyz-Uzbek border spans 1,314 kilometers. The delimitation process was declared complete on January 27, 2023. WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Two NASA astronauts will venture outside the International Space Station, conducting U.S. spacewalk 91 on Thursday, Jan. 16, and U.S. spacewalk 92 on Thursday, Jan. 23, to complete station upgrades. NASA also will discuss the pair of upcoming spacewalks during a news conference at 2 p.m. EST Friday, Jan. 10, on NASA+ from the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston. Learn how to watch NASA content through a variety of platforms, including social media. NASA astronaut Shane Kimbrough and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Thomas Pesquet conduct a spacewalk to complete work on the International Space Station on June 25, 2021. Credit: NASA Participants in the news conference from NASA Johnson include: Bill Spetch , operations integration manager , operations integration manager Nicole McElroy , spacewalk flight director Media interested in participating in person or by phone must contact the NASA Johnson newsroom no later than 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at: 281-483-5111 or [email protected]. To ask questions, media must dial in no later than 15 minutes before the start of the news conference. A copy of NASA's media accreditation policy is online. Questions also may be submitted on social media using #AskNASA. The first spacewalk is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. on Jan. 16, and last about six and a half hours. NASA will provide live coverage beginning at 5:30 a.m. on NASA+. NASA astronauts Nick Hague and Suni Williams will replace a rate gyro assembly that helps provide orientation control for the station, install patches to cover damaged areas of light filters for an X-ray telescope called NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer), and replace a reflector device used for navigational data on one of the international docking adapters. Additionally, the pair will check access areas and connector tools that will be used for future maintenance work on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer. Hague will serve as spacewalk crew member 1 and will wear a suit with red stripes. Williams will serve as spacewalk crew member 2 and will wear an unmarked suit. This will be the fourth for Hague and the eighth for Williams. It will be the 273rd spacewalk in support of space station assembly, maintenance, and upgrades. The second spacewalk is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m. on Jan. 23, and last about six and a half hours. NASA will provide live coverage beginning at 5:30 a.m. on NASA+. Astronauts will remove a radio frequency group antenna assembly from the station's truss, collect samples of surface material for analysis from the Destiny laboratory and the Quest airlock to see whether microorganisms may exist on the exterior of the orbital complex, and prepare a spare elbow joint for the Canadarm2 robotic arm in the event it is needed for a replacement. Following completion of U.S. spacewalk 91, NASA will name the participating crew members for U.S. spacewalk 92. It will be the 274th spacewalk in support of space station assembly, maintenance, and upgrades. Learn more about International Space Station research and operations at: https://www.nasa.gov/station SOURCE NASA Building on NSF Leadership Milestones in Sleep Health and SleepTech LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- National Sleep Foundation (NSF), the global voice of sleep health, presented its current viewpoints and new population sleep health data to media and attendees at CES2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The update recognized 2025 as NSF's 35th year as the leading voice in sleep health for the public, and ten years since hosting the first ever SleepTech Summit at CES in 2015. NSF highlighted the growing contributions of SleepTech to diversify and democratize innovation that can improve sleep. These advances can help everyday consumers get enough of the quality sleep they need, plus realize NSF's goal to make sleep science-based products and services more accessible and convenient. NSF noted a steady increase in the development of new technologies and form factors targeting sleep, spanning wearable and proximal devices, environmental solutions, and clinical sleep solutions that improve the patient experience. NSF featured its ongoing collaboration with the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) on standards for consumer sleep technology, to benefit designers, developers, manufacturers, and end users. They have produced five already, with AI standards pending. NSF highlighted the growing contributions of SleepTech to diversify and democratize innovation that can improve sleep. Post this "This coming year we expect to see another spike in announcements about new SleepTech products coming to market that advance the field and can support more people's decisions to prioritize sleep for their lifestyle, wellness, and health," said John Lopos, NSF CEO. "It comes from a range of start-ups, growing platforms, and iconic names among consumer brands. The sleep economy as NSF defines it will be on a path to grow beyond what others have previously predicted." NSF also anticipates more unique insights about population sleep health through new collaborations. At CES, Lopos gave examples of NSF's recently announced engagements with Panasonic Well for family sleep health and with 2025 Sleep Awareness Week Platinum Sponsor, Inspire Medical Systems, Inc., for obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, NSF is a member and resource in AARP's AgeTech Collaborative. He noted how shared interests help educate the public overall and inform an array of companies committed to sleep health. NSF also expects significantly increased focus on sleep health by major employers and co-workers who have returned to the workplace or continue to work at home or in hybrid models. In a media session at CES, NSF released new data showing insufficient sleep has a negative impact on the work productivity of 60% of Americans. The reported effects of poor sleep on people's performance also touch everyday life, with more than 2/3 (69%) of Americans reporting difficult thinking clearly, and six in ten having problems handling their workload and avoiding mistakes (60% for each, respectively) if they've had poor sleep. "Whether an organization employs 20 people or 200,000, focusing on sleep health and safety in their own community of colleagues can benefit performance and productivity at work and in daily living," added Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, NSF's SVP of Research and Scientific Affairs. About the National Sleep Foundation There's only one National Sleep Foundation (NSF). NSF is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and well-being through sleep education and advocacy. Founded in 1990, the NSF is committed to advancing excellence in sleep health theory, research and practice. In its 35 years, NSF has promoted sleep health through expert recommendations, consensus guidelines, tech standards, and easy-to-use tips and tools to improve sleep. For more information about NSF, visit www.theNSF.org.SleepHealthJournal.org SOURCE National Sleep Foundation DALLAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PakEnergy LLC (PakEnergy), a digital transformation leader delivering business automation and performance optimization solutions for the energy industry, today announced the acquisition of Petrosight, Inc. (Petrosight), an innovative provider of advanced well management software. This acquisition reinforces PakEnergy's position as a single-source provider of end-to-end well-lifecycle management solutions from site planning and construction to drilling, production, workovers, and decommissioning. PakEnergy creates a single source of end-to-end well-lifecycle management solutions with the acquisition of Petrosight. Post this Petrosight is an innovative provider of advanced well management lifecycle software that bridges the gap between the oilfield and the C-Suite. Petrosight delivers timely well data, enhancing PakEnergy's land management, field data capture, and accounting systems for seamless lifecycle visibility and control. Its easy-to-use platform organizes drilling data into four modules: drilling, completions, facilities, and decommissioning. Petrosight's cloud-based wellsite management technology was designed by oilfield engineers for oilfield engineers and field supervisors to bridge the data and reporting gap between the field and the office. The intuitive system simplifies complexity in drilling well management, enabling customers to capture, analyze, and act on well data with unprecedented ease, precision, and efficiency. It organizes drilling well lifecycle data into four user-friendly modules, including drilling, completions, facilities and pipelines, and environmental and reclamationall in one system. "PakEnergy is dedicated to empowering energy operators with easy-to-implement and adopt solutions that meet real-world challenges," said Santosh Nanda, Chief Executive Officer. "The Petrosight system addresses the critical need for timely well data and perfectly complements our land management, field data capture, and accounting systems. With the addition of these powerful well data management capabilities, we can now deliver unparalleled visibility and control across the well and capital project lifecycle, ensuring our customers have the tools to lead and succeed in the ever-changing oil and gas sector." Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Petrosight was founded in 2011 by industry veterans seeking to simplify and enhance wellsite reporting. The company has offices and team members in Denver, CO and Houston, TX and serves over 150 clients across North America and internationally. "From day one, Petrosight's mission has been to deliver efficient, user-friendly solutions that simplify the complexities of well management and drive measurable results," said Christian Gillis, Managing Director of Petrosight. "By joining PakEnergy, we gain access to their robust infrastructure and outstanding technical expertise, enabling us to accelerate product innovation and bring integrated resources to our customers faster." This exciting acquisition also reflects the continued support of Charlesbank Capital Partners (Charlesbank), PakEnergy's private equity partner. "The addition of Petrosight marks a significant milestone in the PakEnergy journey and strengthens the company's ability to provide a unified platform that enhances collaboration, accelerates decision-making, and drives operational excellence," said Mayur Desai, Managing Director at Charlesbank. "Whether managing a single well or an extensive portfolio, PakEnergy now delivers the tools to optimize every phase. From initial planning to final reclamation, PakEnergy is the ultimate partner for well lifecycle success." About Petrosight Petrosight, Inc. (Petrosight) delivers cutting-edge well management technology to streamline operations and provide actionable insights across a well's full lifecycle. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Canada, Petrosight has offices and team members in Denver, CO and Houston, TX and serves over 150 clients across North America and internationally. About PakEnergy PakEnergy LLC (A Delaware LLC) transforms how energy companies operate, offering a complete portfolio of smart, easy-to-use software solutions that optimize performance from the oil field to the C-Suite. Founded as WolfePak in 1986, PakEnergy helps energy professionals save time, cut costs, and maximize profitability with powerful tools for land management, wellsite operations, production, transportation, accounting, and renewable energy. Built by industry experts, our end-to-end business automation and performance optimization systems deliver real-time insights, advanced analytics, and total asset control to drive smarter decisions and better results. Based in Texas, PakEnergy supports over 2,350 customers with a dedicated team of seasoned oil and gas and technology experts. Visit PakEnergy.com to learn more or request a product demo. SOURCE PakEnergy, LLC A more energy efficient approach to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) designed for builders and architects to construct tomorrow's high-performance homes LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at CES 2025, Panasonic unveiled an innovative new energy efficient approach to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) that uses significantly less energy than conventional technologies. Building upon its rich history and founder's guiding vision of making today better than yesterday, tomorrow better than today, the OASYS solution brings together two areas of focus: sustainable technology and the wellbeing of society. Panasonic unveiled an innovative new energy efficient approach to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) that uses significantly less energy than conventional technologies. Building upon its rich history and founders guiding vision of making today better than yesterday, tomorrow better than today, the OASYS solution brings together two areas of focus: sustainable technology and the wellbeing of society. Introducing OASYS OASYS is a holistic home comfort solution created for modern, high-performance homes. As home building design has advanced with new materials and construction techniques, the standard approaches to conditioning and treating indoor air left room for innovation. Today, OASYS combines a suite of Panasonic technologies into a complete, proprietary solution to take a leap forward for one of the home's most important systems. Offering cleaner, fresher air; balanced humidity; and consistent temperature control across the house, this new approach to HVAC supports the comfort and wellbeing of families in their home environment with greater energy efficiency and cost saving advantages compared to traditional systems. "OASYS is more than an HVAC system. It's a holistic air quality management solution to support your family's comfort and peace-of-mind by delivering cleaner air and consistent temperatures throughout the whole house," said Naoki Kamo, President of Panasonic Eco Systems of North America. "Our homes are where our families flourish, and OASYS builds on Panasonic's rich, 100-year history of inventing technologies to support the wellbeing and sustainability of people and society." Superior performance and comfort According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Americans spend on average about 90% of their time indoors1 where the concentration of some pollutants is often two to five times higher than typical outdoor air.2 Improving ventilation with outdoor air is one of the fundamental strategies to lowering concentrations of indoor air pollutants but most home heating and cooling systems do not mechanically bring fresh air into the house.3 OASYS starts with ventilation: the system takes in fresh outdoor air, filters it, and tempers it to the homeowner's temperature setting. It then circulates air constantly throughout the entire house for approximately four air changes per hour4 while continuously monitoring the air for comfort. The result is a more comfortable, cleaner indoor environment for the family, designed with their wellness in mind. It goes beyond what homeowners can expect from conventional systems today with: Consistent Temperature Control : maintains consistent temperature and airflow from room-to-room in the home, eliminating hot spots and cold corners. : maintains consistent temperature and airflow from room-to-room in the home, eliminating hot spots and cold corners. Balanced Air Circulation and Filtration : provides constant, ongoing ventilation and filtration of home air to help protect from allergens and pollutants while deodorizing the air to reduce odors. : provides constant, ongoing ventilation and filtration of home air to help protect from allergens and pollutants while deodorizing the air to reduce odors. Humidity Control : delivers ongoing humidity control throughout the whole house with constant air movement and ventilation to help prevent excess moisture and mold. : delivers ongoing humidity control throughout the whole house with constant air movement and ventilation to help prevent excess moisture and mold. Easy maintenance : requires minimal regular maintenance of a simple-to-clean air filter with no annual system maintenance necessary, and each component of the solution can be repaired or replaced individually. : requires minimal regular maintenance of a simple-to-clean air filter with no annual system maintenance necessary, and each component of the solution can be repaired or replaced individually. Quiet Operation : runs with whisper-quiet operation, with minimal fan noise to promote more comfort for families. These features work together to improve the quality of the air inside the home, supporting the longevity of the home by helping protect against mold and excess humidity that can cause decay. Improved efficiency and economics According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the HVAC system demands more energy on average than any other system in a home through its energy consumption in space heating and air conditioning.5 OASYS can reduce energy consumption for heating and air conditioning by up to 53%6 compared to traditional HVAC systems, making it an ideal solution for those looking to reduce their home's energy usage and lower monthly energy bills. The improved efficiency offered by OASYS makes it easier and more affordable to leverage renewable energy to power the home, such as residential solar and battery storage. Decreasing the energy needs of a home's most demanding system means that smaller and more cost-efficient solar systems can be used to power the home, expanding solar power as an option for more houses. And when powered by solar panels and battery storage, homes are better able to withstand power outages, making them more resilient to weather disturbances caused by climate impacts. OASYS delivers these performance and efficiency gains with a similar installation cost7 to existing technologies in high-performance homes. Achieving this dramatic reduction in HVAC power demand is a critical step towards achieving a more affordable and accessible zero-energy home. Learn more about Panasonic's OASYS. [1] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1989. Report to Congress on indoor air quality: Volume 2. EPA/400/1-89/001C. Washington, DC. [2] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1987. The total exposure assessment methodology (TEAM) study: Summary and analysis. EPA/600/6-87/002a. Washington, DC. [3] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. "The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality" [4] Based on measured data from Panasonic in a concept home environment: total volume of the air-conditioned space was 33,600 cubic feet (ft3), and total airflow was 129,600 ft3 per hour. [5] U.S. Energy Information Administration, Residential Energy Consumption Survey 2020. Summary can be found on "Uses of Energy explained" page. [6] Based on a July 2024 analysis commissioned by Panasonic comparing the OASYS solution against conventional system designs, using a two-story, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house with light concrete tile roofing and a ventilated crawlspace underneath the first floor as the model home. Energy savings compare a Panasonic high efficiency design including an OASYS high efficiency custom HVAC system and high-performance envelope, to a code minimum house design utilizing a standard gas furnace. Energy demand was converted and standardized to kilowatt hours (kWh), with the model estimating 5,932 kWh annual energy consumption for the OASYS system compared to an estimated 12,744 kWh annual energy consumption for the conventional system, a reduction in annual energy consumption of 53%. The U.S. Department of Energy's IES Virtual Environment software was used to produce an HVAC load sizing report, while the building's energy usage was assessed with the National Renewable Energy Lab's BEopt tool. [7] Calculation based on installing the OASYS system at an initial cost of $25,000 in the abovementioned two-story, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom high-performance house compared to a conventional HVAC system in high-performance homes at an initial cost of approximately $24,000 About Panasonic Corporation of North America Newark, NJ-based Panasonic Corporation of North America is committed to creating a better life and a better world by enabling its customers through innovations in Sustainable Energy, Immersive Entertainment, Integrated Supply Chains and Mobility Solutions. The company is the principal North American subsidiary of Osaka, Japan-based Panasonic Holdings Corporation. One of Interbrand's Top 100 Best Global Brands of 2023, Panasonic is a leading technology partner and integrator to businesses, government agencies and consumers across the world. Learn more about Panasonic innovations at https://na.panasonic.com/us/. SOURCE Panasonic Corporation DALLAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the U.S. real estate market approaches 2025, significant challenges such as a housing shortage, rising material costs, and labor shortages are reshaping the landscape. However, these conditions also present unique opportunities for land buyers. With over 40 years of expertise in land development, Patten Properties is ideally positioned to help families and investors navigate this evolving market and secure valuable land for the future. Patten Properties remains committed to our mission of helping Americans achieve land ownership and creating their dream home. "As we move into 2025, we remain fully committed to our mission of helping Americans achieve land ownership, making the process as simple and accessible as possible," says John Patten, CEO of Patten Properties. What to Expect from Patten Properties in 2025: Virtual Land Buying: With the help of innovative technology, we're making land buying easier than ever. Through virtual tours, prospective buyers can explore homesites, communities, and surrounding areas from anywhere in the world. Our expert Land Consultants guide buyers through the process, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of location. Commitment to Sustainability: As low-impact developers, we design communities that blend seamlessly with the environment, creating lasting value while protecting the natural surroundings. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that our developments not only meet the needs of today's buyers but also preserve the land for future generations. Veteran Support and Flexible Financing: We offer tailored opportunities for veterans, making land ownership more accessible through specialized financing options. We also provide flexible financing plans and the option to build on your timeline, giving buyers the freedom to plan and develop their dream property at their own pace. With shifting federal policies and growing demand for rural land, the opportunity to secure property is now. As available land continues to diminish, Patten Properties is ready to help buyers claim their piece of the future. Whether you're looking to create a family legacy or a safe haven, the window to act is closing fast. Your dream property awaits, visit www.pattenproperties.com ABOUT PATTEN PROPERTIES Patten Properties and its partners are recognized as being among the industry's foremost authorities on real estate investment and development across the nation. Our culture is founded on integrity and professionalism, which we proudly combine with a commitment to creating value and opportunity in today's exciting real estate environment. CONTACT: Heather Robison [email protected] SOURCE Patten Properties PenFed-sponsored home for local veteran is one of first in the 44-unit Coastal Haven community on Mayport Road. TYSONS, Va., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Employees at PenFed Credit Union, the nation's second-largest federal credit union, today volunteered to build a Beaches Habitat for Humanity home the credit union is sponsoring for a veteran in need of affordable housing as part of the 44-unit Atlantic Beach Florida New Mayport Road community. PenFed Credit Union employees volunteer to build Beaches Habitat for Humanity home for veteran. Navy veteran and future homeowner of the Habitat for Humanity home with PenFed Credit Union President & CEO James Schenck. "PenFed is proud to come together with the community and Habitat for Humanity to build an affordable home for a veteran and their family," said PenFed Credit Union President/CEO James Schenck. "It really takes a dedicated team of volunteers coming together to build the home for it to be affordable. Everyone deserves a place to live, especially our nation's heroes." Dozens of PenFed employees, including PenFed's executive leadership team and home mortgage team participated in the January 6 build at 2150 Mayport Road in Jacksonville. Once completed, a retired Navy veteran will purchase the home at an affordable price. The military and defense community are at PenFed's core, and the credit union has previously funded construction and volunteered to build a home for a veteran in Washington D.C. "Our employees are passionate about serving our members and supporting the Jacksonville community where we live and work," said PenFed Credit Union EVP Residential and Commercial Real Estate /President Mortgage Banking Winston Wilkinson. "Beaches Habitat for Humanity's work aligns with our mission to deliver financial value to help our members achieve their dreams." "Beaches Habitat for Humanity is excited to begin building this new development and blessed to have PenFed Credit Union as a partner," said President & Chief Executive Officer Beaches Habitat for Humanity Steve Gilbert. "We are very grateful for PenFed's strong support of our Veterans Build Home which is one of the first houses to be built in this community. PenFed is helping fund the construction of this home for a qualified, local veteran in need of affordable housing. Together we are serving those who served." Video from the build can be found here. About PenFed Credit Union Established in 1935, Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) is America's second-largest federal credit union, serving 2.8 million members worldwide with over $32.7 billion in assets. PenFed Credit Union offers market-leading certificates, checking, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and a wide range of other financial services with members' interests always in mind. PenFed Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender. To learn more about PenFed Credit Union, visit PenFed.org, like us on Facebook and follow us @PenFed on X. Interested in working for PenFed? Check us out on LinkedIn. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. SOURCE PenFed Credit Union Revolutionizing AI-Driven Peptide Therapeutics, Strengthening Pipeline for Next-Generation Drug Discovery JERUSALEM, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pepticom, a pioneer in AI-driven peptide-based therapeutics, today announced the successful completion of its Series A1 funding round, securing $6.6 million. Japan Israel High Tech Ventures 2 LP led the round, with strong participation from existing investors. This funding will accelerate the development of Pepticom's oral IL-17 inhibitor program, targeting improved treatments for autoimmune diseases. This includes the design of two families of fully synthetic, small cyclic peptidomimetic inhibitors with nanomolar activity that target both IL-17A and IL-17F isoforms. Composed of non-natural amino acids, these compounds have achieved key milestones in record time and cost, demonstrating increased stability and extended half-life in vitro and in vivo. By addressing unmet needs in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, Pepticom's AI-driven drug discovery platform is advancing next-generation therapeutics to overcome limitations of traditional small molecule and biologic therapies in complex therapeutic areas. Pepticom's proprietary platform for de novo design, and discovery of peptide therapeutics, combines state-of-the-art machine learning with cutting-edge biochemistry to design peptides with exceptional specificity, stability, and therapeutic potential. By combining over 600 natural and non-natural amino acid building blocks with AI-driven reinforcement learning, Pepticom can explore an infinite chemical spaceover 10 potential peptide structures. This enables the de novo design and discovery of entirely new peptidomimetic targets that provides significant advantages over other therapeutic modalities. This unique capability accelerates the drug discovery process, bringing us closer to impactful peptide therapies in a fraction of the time and cost compared to traditional methods. "This successful funding round validates our pioneering approach to AI-driven peptide drug discovery," said Immanuel Lerner, CEO and Co-Founder of Pepticom. "Our platform's design of novel oral IL-17 inhibitors in record time and cost demonstrates its transformative impact to redefine how precision peptide therapeutics are discovered and developed. This funding accelerates our mission to bring more effective, accessible treatments to patients across multiple therapeutic areas." About Pepticom: Pepticom is a biotech company specializing in the AI-driven discovery of peptide-based therapeutics. The company's mission is to transform medicine by developing targeted, more effective treatments for serious diseases, including autoimmune disorders, and other high-need therapeutic areas. By harnessing the unique properties of peptides, Pepticom's innovative approach creates precision therapies that address complex biological challenges, offering a new frontier in drug development. For more information, visit: www.Pepticom.com. About Japan Israel High Tech Ventures 2 LP: Japan Israel High Tech Ventures 2 LP, a venture capital fund established in 2022, is managed by Singapore-based Chartered Investment Managers Pte. Ltd. The fund specializes in investing in Israeli and Israeli-affiliated technology companies. To date, it has backed 19 Israeli startups across diverse deep-tech sectors, as well as one university-affiliated venture capital initiative in Israel. A Message from the Chairman of Chartered Group: "This investment marks a pivotal milestone in our commitment to fostering groundbreaking technologies that address critical challenges in healthcare. Pepticom's pioneering approach to AI-driven peptide therapeutics aligns seamlessly with our vision of supporting transformative innovations with the potential to revolutionize lives globally. We are proud to contribute to Pepticom's journey in developing next-generation therapies that not only address unmet medical needs but also set new standards for efficiency and precision in drug discovery," said Eyal Agmoni, Chairman of Chartered Group. www.pepticom.com SOURCE Pepticom NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pontera, the fintech company helping retirement savers receive 401(k) account management from their chosen financial advisor, and Hightower Advisors, one of the country's leading RIAs, are collaborating to help individuals maximize their retirement savings. By incorporating Pontera's client-permissioned technology, Hightower advisors can manage client 401(k)s in keeping with their comprehensive financial goals. With this holistic approach, advisors can rebalance accounts to help maximize their clients' tax, investment and estate-planning outcomes. Pontera and Hightower logos "Studies show Americans want help managing their retirement savings. With Pontera, advisors can deliver a higher level of service that incorporates clients' 401(k)s into comprehensive wealth planning," said Peter Nolan , VP, Enterprise Business Development, Pontera. "In an increasingly demanding marketplace, advisors now can provide a better service by holistically managing more of their clients' wealth." The Pontera platform also is seamlessly integrated with the portfolio management software tools used by most Hightower advisors, including Black Diamond and Envestnet Tamarac. Hightower, which has $166.3 billion in assets under management and 140 advisory teams across 34 states, provides its advisory teams with a wide range of services for accelerating organic growth, including business development consulting, turnkey prospect events, leadership and team development, talent acquisition, marketing support, technology, and investment management resources. It also provides compliance, accounting, payroll, and human resources support so teams can focus on serving clients and building those relationships. "Our mission is to help each client achieve their custom vision of 'well-th.' A natural extension of that is providing trusted advice on their workplace retirement accounts," said Scott Holsopple , Chief Growth Officer, Hightower Advisors. "People expect their advisors to offer advice and guidance across every part of their lives. Our partnership with Pontera opens new possibilities for our advisors to deliver their recommendations to more families and it gives them another avenue for growing their businesses. Early advisor adoption of the platform has been strong, with positive feedback on being able to expand the services offered to clients." Pontera believes professional 401(k) management can help more Americans optimize their retirement savings. Certified under SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 standards, Pontera's platform provides advisors a secure layer to manage clients' workplace retirement plans while preventing advisors from gaining access to client accounts, safeguarding client data and reducing operational risk for advisors. About Pontera Pontera is a fintech company on a mission to help millions of Americans retire better by enabling their financial advisors to manage, balance, and report on clients' assets in 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and other workplace-sponsored accounts. Our secure, purpose-built platform, seamlessly integrated with advisors' portfolio management tools, is designed to work across many account types and help advisors deliver comprehensive investment management and improve financial outcomes. Founded in 2012, Pontera is headquartered in New York City. Learn more at www.pontera.com . About Hightower Founded in 2008, Hightower is a wealth management firm that provides investment, financial, and retirement planning services to individuals, foundations, and family offices, as well as 401(k) consulting and cash management services to corporations. Hightower's capital solutions, operational support services, size, and scale empower its vibrant community of independent-minded wealth advisors to grow their businesses and help clients achieve their vision of "well-th. rebalanced." The registered investment advisor is based in Chicago. Learn more about Hightower's collaborative business model at www.hightoweradvisors.com . Hightower Advisors, LLC is an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment advisor does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. SOURCE Pontera CLEARWATER, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BayCare has earned 20 Press Ganey Human Experience Awards for 2024, reflecting BayCare's performance among the top 5% of health care providers in the country and highlighting BayCare's commitment to high-quality, compassionate care. CT Coordinator Anthony Fatovic prepares a patient for a CT scan at BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Trinity). Once again, BayCare's Ambulatory division garnered extensive awards, including one location, BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Hampton Lakes/Westchase), earning the "Pinnacle of Excellence - Patient Experience" award. Two BayCare hospitals were recognized and the physicians at one of them, Mease Dunedin Hospital, were recognized for the "Guardian of Excellence Physician Experience" award. These national awards are part of Press Ganey's annual ranking of the top hospitals and health systems throughout the U.S. Press Ganey annually surveys patients of more than 41,000 health care facilities, asking them questions about overall safety, quality and experience of care. "BayCare has once again positioned itself on the national stage, as our trademark clinical excellence and compassionate care continue to put us in the spotlight," said BayCare President and CEO Stephanie Conners, MBA, BSN, RN. "Our team is consistently recognized for fostering an incredible work environment, and patients can be confident they will feel welcome, safe and supported when they come through our doors." The Pinnacle of Excellence award is given to locations that have achieved the top 5% in delivering patient experience over a three-year period. Press Ganey's "Guardian of Excellence Patient Experience" awards are given to locations that have achieved the top 5% for patient experience over a one-year time frame. Below is a complete list of BayCare's 2024 Press Ganey awards: Guardian of Excellence Patient Experience Award Winners -BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Carillon) -BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Trinity) -BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Hampton Lakes/Westchase) -BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Carlisle Imaging Center) -BayCare Laboratories (St. Anthony's Medical Arts Building) -BayCare Laboratories (Palm Harbor) -BayCare Laboratories (Cheek-Powell) -BayCare Laboratories (Countryside) -BayCare Laboratories (Mease Dunedin Physician Office Building) -BayCare Laboratories (New Port Richey) -BayCare Laboratories (Riverview) -BayCare Laboratories (Trinity) -BayCare Laboratories (Suncoast Medical Clinic) -BayCare Laboratories (Bloomingdale) -BayCare Laboratories (Sunset Point) -BayCare Laboratories (South Tampa) -Emergency Department at Mease Dunedin Hospital -Inpatient Rehabilitation at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital Pinnacle of Excellence Patient Experience Award Winner -BayCare Outpatient Imaging (Hampton Lakes/Westchase) Guardian of Excellence Physician Experience Award Winner -Physicians at Mease Dunedin Hospital Mease Dunedin Hospital physicians' win marks the first time BayCare has won a Guardian of Excellence award for physician experience. The award is given to locations that have achieved the top 5% for engagement with Press Ganey's physician survey over a one-year time frame. "BayCare demonstrates the transformative power of committing to patient-centered care and positive employee experiences that drive effective clinical outcomes," said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO and chairman of Press Ganey. "By making the human experience a top priority, BayCare is setting a new standard for health care excellence." See Press Ganey's listing of the BayCare winners here. See the list of BayCare's clinical and workplace awards on the BayCare Awards and Recognition page. About BayCare BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that connects individuals and families to a wide range of services at 16 hospitals and hundreds of other convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay and central Florida regions. The system is West Central Florida's largest provider of behavioral health and pediatric services and its provider group, BayCare Medical Group, is one of the largest in the region. BayCare's diverse network of ambulatory services includes laboratories, imaging, surgical centers, BayCare Urgent Care locations, wellness centers and one of Florida's largest home care agencies, BayCare HomeCare. BayCare's mission is to improve the health of all it serves through community-owned, health care services that set the standard for high-quality, compassionate care. For more information visit BayCare.org. About Press Ganey Press Ganey, the leading Human Experience (HX) healthcare performance improvement company, offers an integrated suite of solutions that address safety, clinical excellence, patient experience and workforce engagement. The company works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience to improve the overall safety, quality and experience of care. Press Ganey is a PG Forsta company. SOURCE BayCare Health System BOERNE, Texas, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Prytime Medical, The REBOA Company, proudly announces the first civilian use of its pREBOA-PRO catheter in the European Union, following the device's receipt of CE Mark approval. The pREBOA-PRO catheter is already approved in the United States and in Canada. Groundbreaking Partial REBOA Device for Prolonged Aortic Occlusion Now Available in Europe The pREBOA-PRO catheter is the world's first and only device specifically designed for prolonged aortic occlusion, a key advancement in resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). The device provides controlled resuscitation for patients with life-threatening hemorrhages, breaking the traditional 30-minute barrier associated with original REBOA1 and offering extended safe occlusion times up to 2 hours2,3. This breakthrough expands treatment options and may help reduce the complications typically associated with complete aortic occlusion. Dr. Tal Horer, Associate Professor of Surgery and Senior Vascular Surgeon at Orebro University Hospital in Sweden, performed the first European civilian use of the pREBOA-PRO catheter for a patient with emergent post-partum bleeding. Based on his experience, he said: "The pREBOA-PRO catheter represents a significant advancement in REBOA technology. Its ability to achieve partial occlusion gives us more flexibility in managing critically injured patients, potentially improving outcomes and reducing the risk of ischemic complications. This device is a valuable addition to our trauma care arsenal and allowed us to provide hemodynamic support for this critical patient." David Spencer, CEO of Prytime Medical, commented: "Receiving CE Mark approval for the pREBOA-PRO catheter is a crucial step in our mission to expand access to life-saving REBOA technology globally. This innovative device will provide European physicians with a powerful tool to manage non-compressible torso hemorrhage more effectively, ultimately saving more lives." With over 700 documented patient uses in the United States, the pREBOA-PRO catheter gives physicians prolonged time to evaluate, stabilize, and treat patients at risk of hemorrhagic shock, without increasing AKI4,5,6,7,8. Prytime Medical will begin a phased rollout of the pREBOA-PRO catheter across select European markets in 2025. For more information, please visit Prytime Medical's website: www.prytimemedical.com. About Prytime Medical Devices, Inc. Prytime Medical Devices, Inc. is a leading innovator in resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) technology. With a mission to improve patient outcomes during trauma and critical care situations, Prytime's devices offer cutting-edge solutions designed to save lives by controlling hemorrhagic shock and preventing ischemic complications. Dr. Horer declares no conflict of interest regarding Prytime, and has received no compensation for his opinion. Footnotes: Glaser et al., (2020) Joint Trauma System Prytime Medical (2024) Data on file Ho et al., (2023) J Trauma Acute Care Surg. Based on preclinical data. Clinical results in humans are unknown. Russo et al., (2020) J Trauma Acute Care Surg. Gomez et al., (2023) J Trauma Acute Care Surg. Ronaldi et al., (2021) Shock. Based on preclinical data. Clinical results in humans are unknown. Madurska et al., (2021) Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg. Hunt et al., (2023) The American Surgeon Contact: Nicole Calvert Marketing Manager, Prytime Medical Devices, Inc. [email protected] 210-340-0116 www.prytimemedical.com SOURCE Prytime Medical DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 7. Tajikistan will enhance its control over the movement of overweight and oversized vehicles on the country's roads in 2025, Trend reports via the Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan. Amendments have been made to the country's Road Transport Code, requiring drivers to undergo weight and dimension checks upon the request of authorized officials. In cases of non-compliance with cargo loading regulations, shippers will face administrative penalties. As of July 2024, automated weight and dimension control systems have been installed along Tajikistan's highways. A total of 30 weighing stations are currently operational, equipped with stationary, dynamic, and mobile scales. These systems can measure the weight and dimensions of trucks even while they are traveling at high speeds, up to 100-120 km/h. Additionally, more of these systems will be set up at two major entry points to the capital, Dushanbe, as well as at key cargo checkpoints in the cities of Nurek and Guliston in the Kulyab region and Kyzyl-Kala in the Bokhtar region, all of which are located along major highways. In the first five months of 2024 alone, over 100,000 trucks were weighed at checkpoints and by mobile inspection teams. More than 1,000 cases of violations regarding the transportation of oversized and overweight cargo were recorded. As a result, offenders were fined a total of 3.4 million somoni (approximately $320,000). Tajikistan prohibits the movement of heavy-duty vehicles carrying loads exceeding 40 tons. Innovative Fitness Franchise Awards Third Franchise Marking Brand's Expansion in the Region DARIEN, Conn., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pvolve , the fitness franchise that pairs functional movement with resistance equipment to build strong, mobile bodies, has announced a new studio signing in Fairfield County with Christine Friedman Partouche to bring two new locations to the region. This deal will mark Pvolve's third franchise location in the state of Connecticut and adds to the brand's rapid growth, now boasting a total of over 50 studios in development across the country. Pvolve has ambitious plans for Connecticut, with 10 additional territories available for new locations as part of its aggressive expansion strategy. Each new location will create between 10 to 15 job opportunities, providing a significant boost to the local economy and community. Friedman brings a diverse professional background in fashion magazines and corporate finance, combined with her personal passion for endurance sports. After discovering triathlon as a way to enhance her fitness journey, Christine fell in love with the lifestyle and the importance of self-care and nutrition. When traditional recovery methods like physical therapy and acupuncture fell short, Pvolve's innovative approach to functional fitness reshaped her performance, helped her overcome injuries and improve her training. Inspired by her experience, Christine is expanding the Pvolve method into Connecticut, where she aims to share its benefits with her community. "Joining the Pvolve family is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me to bring this remarkable workout method to Fairfield County," said Friedman. "Pvolve's focus on sustainable fitness and healthy aging resonates deeply with me, and I can't wait to help my community discover a workout that empowers them to move better, feel stronger, and embrace long-term wellness." Julie Cartwright, President of Pvolve, credits the brand's rapid growth to its clinically-proven method, which builds total-body strength while promoting longevityaligning with the growing cultural recognition of fitness as vital to overall health. The brand's partnership with world-renowned actress, producer, and director Jennifer Aniston, along with the success of its multi-revenue stream business model, have all contributed to the brand's expansion. "Pvolve has been expanding its franchise footprint at a record rate over the last 12 months, and Fairfield County was a natural target for us given the strong community of active, health-oriented individuals," said Cartwright. "We are thrilled to welcome Christine as a franchise partner, confident that her extensive corporate background and genuine passion for health and fitness will help introduce Pvolve's fresh and effective approach to even more individuals." The brand recently made waves with the launch of its latest campaign featuring Jennifer Aniston with Pvolve's patented fitness equipment. Conceptualized by Aniston herself, the campaign emphasizes the power of strength to unlock a longer, healthier life. It aims to inspire people of all ages and fitness levels to tap into their potential and enhance their health span through functional movement. Pvolve has territories available for development nationwide, including additional opportunities in Connecticut, as well as plans for growth in Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. Currently, the brand is seeking both single-unit and multi-unit franchisees who have strong business acumen and exceptional communication, leadership, and management skills. With a multi-revenue stream business model, hybrid classes, proprietary equipment, and high-profile brand endorsements, Pvolve represents a compelling business opportunity within the $87 billion fitness industry. For more information on Pvolve and its franchising opportunities, please visit https://pvolvefranchise.com/ . About Pvolve Pvolve is a workout method that pairs functional movement with resistance equipment to build strong, mobile bodies, so members can live younger, longer. After being introduced to functional fitness in 2017, founder Rachel Katzman was determined to help others experience an approach that respects the body's holistic needs while making you look and feel great. The Pvolve Method is supported by a Clinical Advisory Board of doctors, as well as highly credentialed trainers, to offer effective workouts that help you break a sweat, not your body. In June 2023, world-renowned actress, producer, and director, Jennifer Aniston , officially partnered with Pvolve after falling in love with the method as a member. Through its hybrid fitness model, Pvolve can be experienced through a streaming membership that offers over 1,300 on-demand classes, a two-way, live virtual studio, and targeted series, all available via the web and mobile apps. Additionally, Pvolve has physical studio locations in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and franchises across the US and Canada, with more than 50 locations in development. For more information, please visit https://www.pvolve.com/ , https://pvolvefranchise.com/ . MEDIA CONTACT: Fishman Public Relations Ben Franc, Account Supervisor [email protected] or 815-999-9441 SOURCE Pvolve CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- QurAlis Corporation ("QurAlis"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company driving scientific breakthroughs into powerful precision medicines that have the potential to alter the trajectory of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and other neurodegenerative and neurological diseases, today announced that it has been invited to present at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference to be held January 13-16, 2025, in San Francisco, CA. Kasper Roet, Ph.D., QurAlis' chief executive officer and co-founder, will present a corporate overview on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 5:30PM PT at the Westin St. Francis in the Golden Gate room. The QurAlis corporate presentation can be accessed by visiting the presentations section of the Company's website at www.quralis.com. About QurAlis Corporation At QurAlis, we are neuro pioneers on a quest to cure. We work with a relentless pursuit of knowledge, a precise attention to craft, and an optimistic mindset to discover and develop effective precision medicines that have the potential to alter the trajectory of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and other neurodegenerative and neurological diseases. Founded by an internationally recognized team of neurodegenerative biologists from Harvard Medical School and Harvard University, QurAlis is advancing a robust precision medicine pipeline with therapeutic candidates aimed at modifying severe disease pathology in defined patient populations based on both disease-causing genetic mutation(s) and clinical biomarkers. For more information, please visit www.quralis.com or follow us on X @QurAlisCo or LinkedIn. SOURCE QurAlis KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Regal Cineworld Group, a leading global theatre operator, today announced the appointments of Kelly Dowdy as Chief Digital and Technology Officer and Adam Snow as Chief Strategy Officer. Both will report to Eduardo Acuna, Chief Executive Officer for Regal Cineworld Group. "I am excited to welcome Kelly and Adam to our senior leadership group in the newly created roles of Chief Digital and Technology Officer and Chief Strategy Officer," said Acuna. "As the momentum continues for both our business and the theatrical industry at large, I'm confident that Kelly and Adam will play critical roles in advancing our strategic objectives as we drive growth and success for Regal Cineworld. Kelly brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation and technological innovation, and Adam's deep experience in strategic planning, analytics and execution will be instrumental in guiding our long-term vision and ensuring we remain at the forefront of our industry." Dowdy will be responsible for leading the company's digital transformation and driving Regal Cineworld's overall digital strategy aligned with business objectives. The role is critical to enhancing the company's digital footprint, optimizing customer experiences and fostering innovation across the organization. She will oversee all aspects of IT and digital operations, the development and management of digital products and services, as well as both foundational systems and customer facing/mobile applications. Regal Cineworld Group continues to be well positioned for accelerated growth through improvements to existing assets, and digital enhancements to the moviegoing experience. Dowdy will be tasked with managing those improvements to the consumer experience as the company rolls out upgrades to its digital channels including the website and app. Dowdy joins Regal Cineworld from Yum! Brands where she most recently served as SVP, Global Digital and Technology, leading the digital transformation of Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell's e-commerce ordering and restaurants technologies. She has also served in senior roles at Express Scripts/Cigna and The Boeing Company. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, she received both her bachelor's and master's in information technology from the school. Snow will be responsible for evolving the company's strategic vision, planning and implementing the organization's key priorities, defining and driving the organization's long-term strategic plan and ensuring organizational alignment with it. He will be charged with the formulation and execution of strategies to achieve sustainable growth, will oversee market analysis and competitive intelligence, will improve operational efficiency, and enhance competitive positioning. Snow joins Regal Cineworld from Aimbridge Hospitality where he served as Executive Vice President, Transformation, Strategy and Analytics. He previously held leaderships roles at Dine Brands, where as VP of Corporate Strategy he led strategy and analytics for the IHOP brand and for Dine overall. His previous strategic roles include tenures at Disney, spanning global Parks and Resorts with multiple operating teams across US and China, Dell and Bain & Company among others. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and University of Chicago. About Regal Cineworld Regal Cineworld operates one of the largest and most geographically diverse theatre circuits in the world. Under the Regal, Cineworld, Picturehouse, Planet, and Cinema City brands, the company represents the second largest theatrical exhibition business by number of screens with locations in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Israel, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Romania. Regal Cineworld is focused on delivering the best moviegoing experience by providing our guests with the largest selection of premium large formats, a truly unlimited subscription program, and enhanced food and beverage offerings to make every visit to the theatre a truly memorable experience. Media Contact Johanna Fuentes (865) 925-9539 (Media Line) SOURCE Regal POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern Auto Finance Company, LLC ("SAFCO"), a financial services industry leader, is pleased to announce the successful closing of a $100 million warehouse facility with Deutsche Bank, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth strategy. This new bilateral facility further strengthens SAFCO's liquidity position and enhances its capacity to support continued portfolio expansion. The new Deutsche Bank warehouse facility is the second bilateral agreement within SAFCO's funding platform, underscoring the company's commitment to diversifying its funding sources and driving sustainable, profitable growth. In addition to this milestone, SAFCO has successfully renewed its existing facility with Capital One, extending its maturity through 2028. These enhancements to SAFCO's liquidity profile reinforce the organization's ability to capitalize on new opportunities with ample funding capacity and strong bank relationships. "These recent changes in our funding sources allow SAFCO to continue to profitably grow our portfolio and further strengthen our market position," said SAFCO CEO George Fussell. "We are excited to leverage this additional capacity to deliver on our strategic objectives and provide continued value to our customers and stakeholders." The closing of the Deutsche Bank facility and the extension with Capital One highlight SAFCO's strong financial partnerships and continued focus on operational excellence and portfolio growth. About SAFCO SAFCO is an industry-leading auto finance company built on the belief that credit alone should not measure potential. With headquarters in Pompano Beach, Florida, SAFCO has relationships with over 3,000 dealerships. Contact us today to learn how our advanced technology and expertise can boost your dealership's success. Contact: Jason Person Chief Financial Officer 954-745.2503 [email protected] SOURCE Southern Auto Finance Company, LLC Siemens brings Industrial AI to the Edge of the factory floor for secure access to large language models Aviation startup JetZero chooses Siemens Xcelerator platform to enable development of groundbreaking blended wing aircraft New "Siemens for Startups" program and collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to democratize industrial technology for small companies Siemens collaborates with NVIDIA to deliver physically based visualization for product lifecycle management Siemens and Sony Corporation deliver immersive design using innovative mixed-reality headset and NX Software LAS VEGAS and MUNICH, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Siemens is showcasing its vision for the future where data, AI and software-defined automation will converge to enable unprecedented flexibility, optimization and continuous improvement across the world's industries, for companies of any size. This ambition is at the heart of Siemens' presence at CES 2025, the world's most influential tech event. Siemens the global leader in industrial software demonstrated how its technologies are empowering customers to take bold leaps in industrial innovation. Peter Koerte, Member of the Managing Board, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Strategy officer, Siemens AG at CES 2025, Las Vegas Image courtesy of Jet Zero "Industrial AI is a game-changer that will create significant positive impact in the real world across all industries. Industrial AI allows us to harness the vast amounts of data generated in industrial environments and turn it into insights that drive real business impact. We are adding new industrial AI capabilities across the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio to enable our customers to stay competitive, resilient and sustainable in an increasingly complex world," said Peter Koerte, Member of the Managing Board, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Strategy officer, Siemens AG. Siemens is bringing Industrial AI directly to the shop floor with the new Siemens Industrial Copilot for Operations, enabling AI tasks to run as close as possible to machines. This facilitates rapid, real-time decision making for shop floor operators and maintenance engineers, boosting productivity, operational efficiency and minimizing downtime. The Siemens Industrial Copilot ecosystem is continuously evolving to offer AI capabilities across the industrial value chain and into sectors including discrete and process manufacturing, infrastructure, and mobility. This suite of copilots can enhance human-machine collaboration across all experience levels, helping to accelerate development times and innovation cycles. The Siemens Industrial Copilot will be integrated with the Industrial Edge ecosystem, which has been enhanced with AI for deploying, operating and managing AI models within the production environment. JetZero Selects Siemens Xcelerator Platform During Siemens' press conference at CES 2025, the company announced an agreement with JetZero, a pioneering aviation startup working to build the future of sustainable air travel, to collaborate on the development and production of JetZero's revolutionary blended wing aircraft. The innovative blended wing design aims to improve fuel efficiency by 50 percent, reduce noise and deliver the promise of zero carbon emissions by 2035. JetZero will leverage the Siemens Xcelerator open digital business platform to design, manufacture and operate their new aircraft. JetZero is planning to build "Factory of the Future", a new greenfield factory in the United States where they intend to tightly integrate Siemens' automation hardware, software and services to help it achieve its remarkably ambitious vision encompassing electrification, automation and digitalization of both the aircraft and its production. The JetZero aircraft and its associated manufacturing operations will be simulated virtually using comprehensive digital twins enabling the company to de-risk the manufacturing process, validate the approach and scale processes long before any ground is broken or jets take to the skies. "Siemens is giving us the confidence to take a leap, not just a step, in revolutionizing air travel," said JetZero CEO Tom O'Leary. "Their digital twin and industrial metaverse technologies will be instrumental in helping us design, build and operate the world's first fully digital aircraft, delivering a better experience for passengers and airlines while also reducing fuel consumption by 50 percent." Siemens democratizes industrial tech for startups Siemens' presence at CES also highlighted the company's commitment to enabling startups and companies of all sizes to use its industrial metaverse technologies. Through the new Siemens for Startups program, innovators of any size have access to the intelligence, ecosystems and technologies they need to turn their big ideas into world-changing innovations. Siemens is providing access to venture partnering and clienting services along with dramatically reduced cost access to software and hardware from the Siemens Xcelerator open business platform. In addition, Siemens is collaborating with Amazon Web Services to offer AWS credits, business development resources and access to the AWS Activate program for technical and go-to-market support. Collaborating with NVIDIA to bring photorealism to PLM Together with NVIDIA, Siemens announced new additions to the Siemens Xcelerator open digital business platform, including the Teamcenter Digital Reality Viewer powered by NVIDIA Omniverse, which brings large-scale, physically based visualization directly into the product lifecycle management (PLM) system. This capability also enables teams to collaborate in a secure, digital twin environment using their live 3D data, reducing errors and data discrepancies while streamlining workflows and decision-making. "Our continued collaboration with NVIDIA will be transformative for our customers, empowering them to virtualize and visualize product and plants like never before. Bringing together the best-in-class capabilities of each company, we're equipping customers with the tools they need to make informed decisions, optimize their operations and accelerate their digital transformation," said Koerte. Enabling immersive engineering with Sony In collaboration with the Sony Corporation, Siemens is delivering a new solution for immersive engineering that brings together Siemens NX software for product engineering with a breakthrough head-mounted display from Sony to enable content creation for the industrial metaverse. Now available for pre-order and shipping beginning in February, Siemens' new Immersive Engineering toolset brings the power of mixed reality to the product engineering and manufacturing community, enabling high-fidelity mixed reality and 3D-focused collaboration. "In the era of digital twins, Siemens and Sony have collaborated closely to bring NX Immersive Designer to market. With 4K OLED Microdisplays, intuitive controls and the comfortable design, closely integrated with Siemens' advanced software, we firmly believe this new immersive engineering solution will pave the way for the future of engineering." said Seiya Amatatsu, Incubation Center, XR Technology Development Division, Sony Corporation. Introducing Designcenter for product engineering Koerte was joined on stage at CES by Tony Hemmelgarn, president and CEO, Siemens Digital Industries Software, to unveil Siemens' new Designcenter software suite, which brings together its portfolio of design and engineering software including Solid Edge and NX software in one unified offering so that companies of any size can design and collaborate using the industry-leading Parasolid modeling kernel. "A lot of companies make their design software available to small businesses or to the very largest enterprises. Designcenter is unique in that it is truly open and accessible for everyone companies of every size can scale with the same solution set, their data in the same format without interruption," said Hemmelgarn. Technology to transform the everyday At the Siemens booth in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Siemens is showcasing how its technology transforms the everyday, for everyone, through examples of solutions created by Siemens and its customers that impact personal, local and global communities. In addition to JetZero, these examples include: Spinnova is a Finnish technology company that enables circularity in textile manufacturing with sustainable and chemical-free fabric production using Siemens' Digital Twin technologies and factory automation. is a Finnish technology company that enables circularity in textile manufacturing with sustainable and chemical-free fabric production using Siemens' Digital Twin technologies and factory automation. Wayout International , a Swedish water technology company developing a proprietary drinking water production solution to improve personal health and well-being in daily life using Siemens' edge computing, digital twin technologies and Insights Hub, the industrial IoT as a service solution from Siemens. , a Swedish water technology company developing a proprietary drinking water production solution to improve personal health and well-being in daily life using Siemens' edge computing, digital twin technologies and Insights Hub, the industrial IoT as a service solution from Siemens. Desert Control is a Norwegian startup aiming to revolutionize sustainable agriculture and urban greening in regions suffering from desertification, fostering agricultural prosperity and healthy green space using Siemens' Industrial Operations X. is a Norwegian startup aiming to revolutionize sustainable agriculture and urban greening in regions suffering from desertification, fostering agricultural prosperity and healthy green space using Siemens' Industrial Operations X. Arc is an American company focused on the electrification of the marine industry and making boating more modern, enjoyable, and sustainable using Siemens' NX, Teamcenter and Simcenter STAR-CCM+ software. To learn more about Siemens' presence at CES 2025, visit https://sie.ag/74o27X This press release is available at: https://sie.ag/6AiPpD Follow us at www.x.com/siemens_press Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a leading technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, mobility, and healthcare. The company's purpose is to create technology to transform the everyday, for everyone. By combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens empowers customers to accelerate their digital and sustainability transformations, making factories more efficient, cities more livable, and transportation more sustainable. Siemens also owns a majority stake in the publicly listed company Siemens Healthineers, a leading global medical technology provider pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably. In fiscal 2024, which ended on September 30, 2024, the Siemens Group generated revenue of 75.9 billion and net income of 9.0 billion. As of September 30, 2024, the company employed around 312,000 people worldwide on the basis of continuing operations. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com. SOURCE Siemens Volunteer business experts donate their time to support aspiring and established entrepreneurs. WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- January is National Mentoring Month, the perfect opportunity for aspiring and established small business owners to connect with an experienced SCORE mentor to take their business to the next level. As the nation's largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, SCORE provides free, expert mentoring to entrepreneurs in all 50 states and U.S. territories and is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals. Hear from past SCORE clients on how mentoring has had an impact on their small businesses. SCORE client Nita Kirk (pictured, left), owner of K & K Painting and More, sought guidance from mentor Gary Washington when she started her business. "For the past 60 years, SCORE has connected more than 17 million entrepreneurs with experienced mentors for advice and support, leading to increased revenue and overall business success," said SCORE CEO Bridget Weston. "Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for years, even a few mentoring sessions can make a huge difference for your small business." The benefits of mentorship Finding the right mentor can be transformative, providing guidance and support that can significantly impact a business's trajectory. Specifically, entrepreneurs who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased business growth. A mentor provides actionable guidance on navigating the complexities of business ownership, offering support and encouragement during challenging times. They can help entrepreneurs develop crucial skills, refine their business strategies and build confidence in their abilities. Mentors also serve as sounding boards, providing objective perspectives on critical decisions and helping entrepreneurs avoid potential pitfalls. This personalized support can benefit entrepreneurs at all stages of business development. "Sometimes we struggle with parts of our business that are not our specialty but that are important components of what we need to do to be successful," said SCORE client Anelis Coscioni, executive director of the Toy Lending Library of South Dakota. "Our mentor helps us better understand those components and supports our business growth." Crucial guidance from experts SCORE's nationwide network of experienced mentors provides access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise, allowing entrepreneurs to find the perfect mentor to guide them on their entrepreneurial journey. Since its founding in 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs on their small business journey. Small business owners who request a SCORE mentor are carefully matched with volunteers with relevant expertise, ensuring a highly effective and personalized mentoring experience. Mentoring sessions can take place in person or virtually a mentor can be someone in the local community or across the country. Wherever they are, mentors act as a guide to understand an entrepreneur's business needs and provide free advice and resources. "It's important to really dig deep and ask questions to get to the root of an issue or challenge," advises SCORE mentor Michele Adelman. "Mentors can help with that in a supportive environment." Find a mentor "SCORE has been a foundation and vessel to the success of my business," said SCORE client Nita Kirk, owner of K & K Painting and More in Quinby, SC. "If you are thinking about opening a business, you need to contact SCORE!" To learn more about SCORE, request a mentor or volunteer to be one, visit SCORE.org . About SCORE Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE's 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. Funded [in part] through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. CONTACT: SCORE 202-968-6428 [email protected] Visit SCORE's media resources to connect with expert small business interview sources and news updates. SOURCE SCORE DARMSTADT, Germany, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Software GmbH, the holding entity of the Software AG group, today announced that following the divestments of the webMethods, StreamSets and TrendMiner businesses in July, it has now also closed the sales of Alfabet and Cumulocity. Having overseen six years of transformation, Sanjay Brahmawar has decided that now is a natural point at which to step down from his role as Group CEO. This change is part of the group's strategy to operate Adabas & Natural (A&N) and ARIS as standalone businesses, each led by their own management teams. Brahmawar has been instrumental in evolving Software AG from a legacy software company to a modern, subscription and SaaS business, focused on ARR growth. He drove the acquisition of StreamSets which, combined with webMethods, was later recognized in the market as Super-iPaaS, culminating in the business being acquired by IBM in July 2024. Brahmawar was also integral to the carve-out and divestments of the TrendMiner, Cumulocity and Alfabet businesses. Effective immediately, Silver Lake has appointed senior executives Martin Biegel, Martin Clemm, Robin Colman, and Toktam Khatibzadeh to lead Software GmbH, which continues to be the holding company for ARIS, Adabas & Natural (A&N) and Software AG's central functions. Adabas & Natural (A&N) and ARIS are each making significant investments in product innovation and talent, in order to execute on their multi-year growth plans. A&N has been a leader for decades in mission-critical, high-performance non-relational transactional database software. With its own programming language and best-in-class performance and reliability, A&N processes billions of transactions for essential business processes across platforms including mainframe, Linux and the Cloud. A&N's 2050+ strategy is focused on continued innovation to directly support its customers and their growth. ARIS is a leader in business process intelligence SaaS solutions for enterprises. ARIS' cloud-native process modelling and process mining solutions allow businesses to manage the entire process lifecycle, giving material efficiencies and value to their customers. ARIS has been the pioneer of the process intelligence space, and its products are recognized by prominent industry analysts as market leading. Sanjay Brahmawar said: "It has been a privilege to lead such a well-respected company through many significant moments in its recent history, and to have worked with such a talented and committed team of professionals. As I embark on my new chapter, I will be watching with interest as Software AG continues on the next phase of its own journey. I leave knowing that there is an exceptional management team in place to take this strong business forward, and I am grateful to all colleagues and the Board for the support over the last six years, and especially to Silver Lake for their great partnership." Christian Lucas, Managing Partner of Silver Lake and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Software GmbH, said: "We want to thank Sanjay for driving the transformation of Software AG and are very grateful for his substantial contributions to the success of the company since we partnered with him and the Software AG team in 2022. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Looking ahead, we are excited to invest in both ARIS and Adabas & Natural and their world class products, and support their multi-year growth acceleration plans as independent companies." About Software AG Software AG is a Software GmbH brand that helps companies to manage and optimize their operations, infrastructure and technology with products that simplify complexity, increase transparency and prepare organizations for change. Trusted by the world's best brands for more than 50 years, Software AG's AI-enabled process intelligence, application development, high-performance database, and strategic portfolio management solutions are used by banks, retailers, manufacturers, governments and more. Software AG is owned by Silver Lake, the global technology investment firm. For more information, visit www.softwareag.com and follow on LinkedIn. SOURCE Software GmbH DALLAS, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) and BBAM today announced the sale and leaseback of 36 Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The aircraft will be owned and leased to Southwest Airlines by Incline Aviation III, the third in BBAM's flagship aviation investment fund series. Steve Zissis, President and CEO of BBAM, said: "We are excited to partner with Southwest Airlines, one of the world's most admired and awarded airlines, on this landmark sale-leaseback transaction. The transaction underscores BBAM's commitment to delivering tailored fleet financing solutions and certainty of execution to our airline partners. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Southwest Airlines." Tammy Romo, Executive Vice President and CFO of Southwest Airlines, said: "This transaction is part of our 'Southwest. Even Better.' transformational plan introduced in September at Investor Day. By opportunistically monetizing surplus value from a portion of our existing all-Boeing 737 fleet, Southwest is generating significant cash to drive fleet modernization and offset capital expenditures in support of our capital allocation strategy. We are very pleased to partner with BBAM, one of the world's leading aircraft lessors, on this transaction." For further information regarding this transaction, please refer to the Southwest Airlines Form 8-K filed with the SEC today. About BBAM BBAM is one of the world's largest and longest standing aircraft lessors providing over 100 airline customers in more than 50 countries with fleet and financing solutions, and the only significant manager in its sector focused exclusively on generating investment returns on third party capital. With more than 500 aircraft under management, BBAM employs over 150 professionals globally with offices in Dallas, San Francisco, Puerto Rico, Tokyo, Singapore, Zurich, and Dublin. BBAM is a full-service lessor and maintains its own in-house capabilities encompassing aircraft origination, disposition, lease marketing, technical maintenance, regulatory compliance, capital markets activity, tax structuring, legal, contracts and finance, for all asset types and strategies. Learn more by visiting www.bbam.com. About Southwest Airlines Co. Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world's most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 117 airports across 11 countries. Southwest took flight in 1971 to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline1. By empowering its more than 73,0002 People to deliver unparalleled Hospitality, the maverick airline cherishes a passionate loyalty among more than 137 million Customers carried in 2023. Southwest leverages a unique legacy and mission to serve communities around the world including harnessing the power of its People and Purpose to put communities at the Heart of its success. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship. 1Based on U.S. Dept. of Transportation quarterly Airline Origin & Destination Survey since Q1 2021 2Fulltime-equivalent active Employees SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co. Physician specializes in stem cell transplantation for blood cancers DETROIT, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute welcomes Jose Larios, M.D., transplant hematologist. Dr. Larios is a member of the Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant and Hematology Oncology Multidisciplinary Teams at Karmanos. He specializes in treating leukemia and lymphoma blood cancers, including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. He began seeing patients at the Karmanos Cancer Center in Detroit in August 2024. Jose Larios, M.D., transplant hematologist, joined the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit, Michigan. "Karmanos Cancer Institute is an NCI (National Cancer Institute)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center known for its expertise in treating solid and hematologic tumors," said Dr. Larios. "During my fellowship training, I was privileged to work with the incredible transplant and hematology teams, under the guidance and mentorship of Dr. Uberti in stem cell transplant and Dr. Yang in malignant hematology. I am now honored to be a part of the hematology and transplant team at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute." Dr. Larios has research and clinical interests in the role of bone marrow microenvironment in leukemia progression. This includes bone marrow signaling in acute leukemias, stem cell transplantation, and cellular therapy. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship in a breast oncology and pharmacology lab at the University of Michigan and investigated molecular mechanisms of endocrine resistance in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. He recapitulated newly published mutations in the estrogen receptor gene using breast cancer cell lines as pre-clinical models. Additionally, Dr. Larios also examined mechanisms of resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors. "With Karmanos being an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, in partnership with Wayne State University, Dr. Larios' research and interests will lead to significant discovery in the way we currently treat leukemias and lymphomas with stem cell transplantation," explained George Yoo, M.D., FACS, Chief Medical Officer at Karmanos Cancer Hospital. "Having physicians that push the standard of care needle forward is just what we need in the fight against cancer, to help with future treatments that cure cancers and lead to a better quality of life after treatment." In addition to his postdoctoral fellowship work, Dr. Larios completed an internal medicine residency at Ascension Providence Hospital in Southfield and received his medical degree at Ross University School of Medicine, which was in Dominica at that time. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, where he is also a diplomate in Internal Medicine. He is a member of the American Society of Hematology, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the American Medical Association. He serves on the editorial board for the European Journal of Neurology and has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed published studies. View Dr. Lario's physician profile here. To request an appointment, visit karmanos.org or call 1-800-KARMANOS. About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Karmanos Cancer Institute is a leader in transformative cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion. The Karmanos vision is a world free of cancer. As part of McLaren Health Care, Karmanos is the largest provider of cancer care and research in Michigan. For more than 75 years, the administrative and research headquarters, along with the premier specialty cancer hospital, have been located in downtown Detroit. With 16 network sites, Karmanos delivers world-renowned care and access to clinical trials throughout Michigan and northern Ohio. The National Cancer Institute recognizes Karmanos as one of the best cancer centers in the nation with a comprehensive cancer center designation. Its academic partnership with the Wayne State University School of Medicine provides the framework for cancer research and education defining new standards of care and improving survivorship. For more information, call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266) or visit www.karmanos.org. Follow Karmanos on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. About the Bone Marrow & Stem Cell Transplantation Program at Karmanos The Karmanos Cancer Institute Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) Program is one of only a select group nationwide reporting some of the best survival outcomes for related and unrelated stem cell transplantation, according to data released yearly from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Registry. In addition, the BMT program has received full accreditation from the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) the highest level and the most extensive spectrum of accreditation offered by FACT for Bone Marrow Transplant Programs. Members of the BMT Team have vast experience in clinical research focusing on graft-versus-host disease and immunotherapy. To learn more, click here. SOURCE Karmanos Cancer Institute DETROIT, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Detroit 2030 District is pleased to announce Steven Kalkanis, M.D., CEO of Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford Medical Group, as the keynote speaker for its Kickoff Party and fundraiser on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Detroit Roostertail . "We are honored to have Dr. Kalkanis join us as our keynote speaker. Henry Ford Health's ambitious sustainability goals align with the mission of the Detroit 2030 District," said Kendal Kuneman, Executive Director of the Detroit 2030 District. Henry Ford Health is leading the charge in healthcare sustainability, aiming to achieve net-zero operational emissions by 2050. Dr. Kalkanis will discuss how Henry Ford Health is helping to create a greener, healthier Detroit by embedding sustainability into Destination: Grand, a major expansion of its Detroit campus including a new, state-of-the-art, 1.2 million sq. ft. hospital facility, as well as its transformative Future of Health project in collaboration with Michigan State University and the Detroit Pistons. "At Henry Ford Health, we see firsthand how environmental factors can impact the health of our patients and community. That is why we are deeply committed to sustainability and aim to achieve net-zero operational emissions by 2050," said Dr. Kalkanis. "The Detroit 2030 District is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when leaders from across our city unite to make a difference. This collective effort is truly inspirational and will benefit Detroiters for generations to come." Destination: Grand, the brand-new hospital facility and patient tower, is set to open in Detroit in 2029. Event sponsors include DTE, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Johnson Controls. The semi-formal event will be held at the historic and newly renovated Roostertail (insert video). The evening will include a sit-down dinner, cash bar, exhibit trade show, and silent auction. For more information about the Detroit 2030 District and to purchase tickets, visit 2030districts.org/Detroit . About the Detroit 2030 District: The Detroit 2030 District is part of a national movement to create a high-performance building district by reducing the environmental impacts of building construction and operations while increasing building owners' return on investment, promoting economic development and supporting environmental justice. The organization's mission is to educate and assist Detroit building owners and managers with reducing carbon emissions and operating expenses by reducing energy and water consumption and transportation emissions to and from their buildings. MEDIA CONTACT: CONNIE LILLEY 248-897-1255 [email protected] SOURCE Detroit 2030 District BOSTON , Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SVN International Corp. (SVNIC), the leading full-service commercial real estate franchisor of the SVN brand, announces the addition of a new office in McAllen, Texas: SVN | Hanna Solutions Commercial Real Estate. The firm specializes in sales, leasing, property management, and investment services across the South Texas Region, also known as the Rio Grande Valley. SVN | Hanna Solutions Commercial Real Estate Established in 2018, SVN | Hanna Solutions Commercial Real Estate has built a reputation for excellence with expertise in retail, industrial, office, multifamily, and land transactions, with a focus on leveraging market data to deliver strategic results for clients. The firm, led by Managing Director Mark Hanna, CCIM, brings a wealth of knowledge and a growing, experienced team of five commercial advisors to the SVN network. Hanna was recently selected as a speaker for TedxMcAllen, where he presented on the topic Educational Experiences Drive Economic Development. "SVN's reputation as a globally recognized commercial real estate brand, combined with its collaborative culture and innovative approach, made it the ideal choice for our firm. Their commitment to transparency, shared value, and leveraging cutting-edge technology aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and delivering exceptional client results," said Hanna. "Becoming an SVN franchise partner allows us to tap into a vast network of advisors, expand our resources, and elevate our service offerings while staying rooted in our dedication to the South Texas market." SVN | Hanna Solutions Commercial Real Estate aims to leverage SVN's national network and expert-led advisor training to enhance client service and foster growth. The team is particularly excited about SVN's National Product Councils, the nationwide commission-sharing platform. SVN CEO Lukas Krause stated, "As the SVN brand continues to expand globally, we are proud to partner with market leaders who share our commitment to a collaborative, open, and transparent approach to commercial real estate. SVN | Hanna Solutions Commercial Real Estate has made a strong impact in the South Texas area, and their addition to our network strengthens our presence." For more information, visit www.hannasolutionscre.com . About SVN SVN is the leading franchisor of commercial real estate Advisors in America and a globally recognized organization, united by a shared vision of creating significant value for clients, colleagues, and communities. As an entrepreneurial, Employee-Owned, Public Benefit Corporation, SVN supports thousands of commercial real estate entrepreneurs across more than 200 offices in six countries. With over 2,000 Advisors and staff worldwide, SVN stands out for its commitment to transparency, innovation, and inclusivity, which enables its Advisors to collaborate with the entire real estate industry on behalf of clients. SVN's unique Shared Value Network is one of the many ways our Advisors create exceptional value. All SVN offices are independently owned and operated. If you're a successful CRE entrepreneur interested in applying to become part of this Top 10 firm, visit www.svn.com/franchise . Contact: SVNIC Corporate Marketing [email protected] SOURCE SVN International Corp From Legacy to Leading Edge, Franchisor Streamlines Operations & Advances Growth Strategies for Franchise Success Strategic Executive Appointments Propel Innovation, Leadership Team Boasts Over 100 Years Collective Experience Reimaging & New Technology Modernize Guest Experience, Driving Unit-Level Economics CHEYENNE, Wyo., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Taco John's, one of the largest and most beloved Mexican quick-service restaurants, is charting a bold new course for franchise growth with its optimized business model. Focused on driving unit-level profitability and expanding market reach, the brand has introduced strategic improvements in operations, franchise development, branding, and technology all which position Taco John's as an attractive investment for entrepreneurs seeking to diversify their portfolios with a proven business concept. Taco Johns is driving franchise growth through strategic optimization in four key areas: operations, development, branding, and technology. Under the leadership of President and CEO Heather Neary, Taco John's has embraced modernization to create opportunities for current and prospective franchisees. "There's never been a more opportune time to grow with Taco John's," said Neary. "With prime territories available for growth, our enhanced development and performance strategies remain centered on finding franchisees who align with our business strategy and rich culture, while continuing to prioritize innovation and maximize unit-level profitability." Taco John's is driving franchise growth through strategic optimization in four key areas: operations, development, branding, and technology: Operational Simplification: Collaboration with store teams and the brand's independent franchisee association, Association of Taco John's Franchisees (ATJF), has resulted in simplified back-of-house processes, creating a more efficient and seamless operations model. Collaboration with store teams and the brand's independent franchisee association, Association of Taco John's Franchisees (ATJF), has resulted in simplified back-of-house processes, creating a more efficient and seamless operations model. Accelerated Development: Enhanced market analysis and tailored franchise growth plans are fueling expansion in existing markets and new territories. Future-ready, value-engineered prototypes and real estate strategies provide scalable opportunities for operators. Enhanced market analysis and tailored franchise growth plans are fueling expansion in existing markets and new territories. Future-ready, value-engineered prototypes and real estate strategies provide scalable opportunities for operators. Revitalized Branding: Updates include refreshed signage, refreshed color palettes, and modernized store design elements, positioning the brand for long-term competitiveness. Updates include refreshed signage, refreshed color palettes, and modernized store design elements, positioning the brand for long-term competitiveness. Advanced Technology: From a cloud-based POS system to AI-driven tools and alternative ordering systems, Taco John's is equipping franchisees with cutting-edge solutions to help drive success. Instrumental to this momentum has been the appointment of Shannon Iverson, Taco John's Vice President of Development, who joins an impressive leadership team. Since joining in early 2024, Iverson brings deep industry expertise, including her role in helping scale Marco's Pizza to 1200 locations and facilitated expansion into Mexico during her tenure. "This modernization has truly optimized our business model, making it easier than ever for our franchisees to thrive," said Iverson. "We're combining innovative tools with proven systems to support our franchisees while continuing to deliver bold, fresh flavors our guests love." Taco John's prides itself on bringing the flavor and serving traditional Mexican food with a unique and original "Western" twist. The fusion of bold and savory American flavors with bold spices has created a signature menu utilizing fresh and quality ingredients, including North American beef, Minnesota-grown potatoes, and taco shells cooked in-house daily. These culinary standards set Taco John's apart in the competitive QSR landscape. "As someone who has grown up with Taco John's and witnessed its evolution firsthand, I'm excited with the direction the brand is heading," said Brian Fuder, second-generation multi-unit franchisee and VP of the Association of Taco John's Franchisees. "The leadership team has struck the right balance between honoring our roots and modernizing with real time feedback from the franchisees. With innovative tools, a focus on quality ingredients, and a commitment to franchisee success, Taco John's is ready for a new era." Operating nearly 350 locations across 22 states, Taco John's is targeting expansion in the Upper Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions while also exploring non-traditional growth opportunities nationwide. Comprehensive support for franchisees spans development, training, operations, marketing, supply chain, and technology. The Taco John's Franchise Disclosure Document reports the top 50% of freestanding restaurants with drive-thru windows average net royalty sales of AUV $1,565,225 during the 2023 calendar year*. For more information about Taco John's franchise opportunities, please visit https://tacojohnsfranchise.com/ or email Shannon Iverson at [email protected]. About Taco John's Founded in 1969 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Taco John's has been delivering bigger. bolder. better. flavors for over 55 years. Today, Taco John's operates and franchises nearly 350 restaurants across 22 states, solidifying its place as one of the largest Mexican quick-service restaurant brands in the U.S. Famous for coining Taco Tuesday in 1989, Taco John's offers everyday value with its popular menu. Signature items like Potato Oles showcase the bold, original flavors that help fans Ole The Day. With generous portions and made-to-order dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients, Taco John's sets the standard for crave-worthy Mexican fare. Recognized by Entrepreneur as a "Top Food Franchise of 2023" in the Mexican Food category and named one of QSR Magazine's "Top 15 Chains Ready to Contend as Fast Food's Top Players," Taco John's continues to be a standout in the industry. For more information, visit TacoJohns.com and follow Taco John's on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. *Based on the Average Sales Volume of the top 50% of U.S. freestanding restaurant with drive-thru windows during the calendar year for 2023. This information appears in Item 19 of Taco John's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document ("FDD"). SOURCE Taco John's The twenty-plus-year veteran will lead operations across Tampa General Hospital. TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Tampa General Hospital (TGH) announced today it has appointed Melissa Golombek as executive vice president and chief operating officer. Headshot of Tampa General Hospital Chief Operating Officer Melissa Golombek, photographed on Dec. 19, 2024. "Since joining Tampa General, Melissa has distinguished herself as an exceptional leader, an innovative, strategic and proactive collaborator, and a warm and caring colleague," said John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General. "As we continue to expand our geographic footprint, strengthen our academic partnerships and deepen the innovative clinical expertise we offer to our patients, Melissa is uniquely positioned to successfully lead and support our team in providing exceptional care to our patients and families." Golombek most recently served as the vice president of the Muma Children's Hospital at TGH and the TGH Women's Institute. Under her leadership, both service lines have undergone significant year-over-year growth and continued development to deliver world-class care and patient experience. Golombek joined TGH in 2020 as the Senior Administrator of the Muma Children's Hospital at TGH and the TGH Women's Institute, where she was responsible for developing strategic plans, operational efficiency, financial targets, quality outcomes and business development across the health. Under Golombek's leadership and as she rose to the role of Vice President, the Women's Institute received the highest national designation (Level IV) in maternal care from The Joint Commission and is now ranked #6 in the nation and #1 in Florida for OB/GYN by U.S. News & World Report. Golombek also helped secure the largest gift ever given to any children's hospital in the region for the Muma Children's Hospital in 2023. Additionally, Golombek was instrumental in helping to reopen the Level II NICU at TGH Spring Hill. "It is an honor to continue to grow in my career at Tampa General as part of our dedicated, visionary executive leadership team," said Golombek. "I look forward to collaborating closely with our team to continue delivering on our mission of healing, teaching and innovating during this exciting chapter of growth for our organization." Before joining TGH, Golombek served in multiple senior leadership roles nationwide, including Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, Northwestern University Health System and TMC Health. In these roles, she managed diverse scopes, including inpatient and ambulatory clinical operations, human resource management and fiscal accountability for multi-million-dollar portfolios. Her experience in health care leadership spans nearly 20 years. Golombek received her doctorate in nursing practice from the University of Central Florida. ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL Tampa General Hospital, a 981-bed, not-for-profit, academic health system, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News & World Report's 2024-2025 Best Hospitals , with two medical specialties ranking among the top 20 in the nation and eight medical specialties ranking among the top 50 best hospital programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic health system's commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by three prestigious Forbes magazine rankings in the top 100 nationally in the 2024 America's Best Large Employers , the top 50 in Florida in the 2024 America's Best Employer's by State and the 2023 America's Best Employers for Women , Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2022, provided a net community benefit of approximately $240.3 million in the form of health care for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With five medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Muma Children's Hospital at TGH, the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes TGH North which is comprised of three hospitals and several outpatient locations in Citrus and Hernando counties, 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Outpatient Center, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics. To see a medical care professional live anytime, anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer, visit Virtual Health | Tampa General Hospital (tgh.org) . As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to www.tgh.org . Media Contact: Beth Hardy, APR Assistant Manager Publications & Physician Communications (727) 510-6363 (cell) [email protected] SOURCE Tampa General Hospital 2025 Corporate Equality Index assesses LGBTQ+ workplace equality GALWAY, Ireland, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TE Connectivity (NYSE: TEL), a world leader in connectors and sensors, has earned a top score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation 2025 Corporate Equality Index, placing it among employers in the United States honored with the Equality 100 Award. TE Connectivity has earned recognition from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. "Inclusion is one of TE's core values," says CEO Terrence Curtin. "It is important all of our employees feel welcome and valued at TE so they, in turn, can feel empowered to give us their best effort at work and help drive innovation forward. We continually assess our policies around the world to maintain a positive and productive workplace for all." The Corporate Equality Index rates employers providing comprehensive policies, benefits and practices that ensure greater equity for LGBTQ+ workers and their families. It includes Fortune magazine's 500 largest publicly traded businesses, American Lawyer magazine's top 200 revenue-grossing law firms (AmLaw 200), and hundreds of publicly and privately held mid- to large-sized businesses. To learn more about TE's corporate responsibility strategy, visit te.com/responsibility. About TE Connectivity TE Connectivity (NYSE: TEL) is a global industrial technology leader creating a safer, sustainable, productive, and connected future. Our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the distribution of power, signal and data to advance next-generation transportation, renewable energy, automated factories, data centers, medical technology and more. With more than 85,000 employees, including 9,000 engineers, working alongside customers in approximately 130 countries, TE ensures that EVERY CONNECTION COUNTS. Learn more at www.te.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, WeChat, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). SOURCE TE Connectivity plc WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a statement from Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien on Ford's threat to cancel its decades-long carhaul contract with Jack Cooper. "By taking steps to end its relationship with Jack Cooper, the Ford Motor Company has officially threatened the livelihoods of more than 1,400 Teamsters-represented carhaul workers and their families. Ford, a once iconic American brand, wants to boost its own bottom line by walking away from a family-owned company and into the arms of second-rate third parties that will pay workers less money and far fewer benefits to haul Ford vehicles. "The entire 1.3 million-member Teamsters Union stands absolutely opposed to this shameful and un-American decision. "The erosion of good-paying union jobs poses a serious threat to our entire economy. We have seen time and again that there are no winners when corporations sell out workers to the lowest bidder. Corporate executives refuse to look past the short-term, setting their sights on an extra bonus as they race to the bottom to ruin lives, hollow out communities, and decimate the middle class. It must stop. "The Teamsters urge Ford in the strongest possible terms to reverse this decision. We are prepared to use the full force of the Teamsters Union to defend our members and protect honorable union jobs in America." Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and at Facebook.com/teamsters. Contact: Daniel Moskowitz, (770) 262-4971 [email protected] SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters CHICAGO, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Klein & Hoffman (K&H), a leader in structural engineering and architectural consulting, proudly announces Terry McDonald, SE, PE, as new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. With 24 years of experience in the industry, including 20 years with K&H, Terry brings a wealth of expertise, leadership, and a deep understanding of the firm's mission and values to his new role. Klein & Hoffman. Photo by Chris Guillen Photography. Terry joined K&H in 2004 rising from a project engineer to managing the firm's structural engineering group, overseeing key projects, and contributing to the company's strategic growth as a member of the firm's board of directors for 8 years. As Principal, he played a pivotal role in major adaptive reuse, structural repair and renovation projects, delivering innovative solutions and bolstering K&H's reputation for excellence. Notable projects led by Terry include major initiatives at Chicago Union Station, such as the Great Hall Restoration, the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge, and the adaptive reuse of the Old Fred Harvey Restaurant. His work also includes the stabilization of the Historic Old Joliet Prison, the ongoing Experience Master Plan Renovation of the John G. Shedd Aquarium, major tenant buildouts at the Merchandise Mart, 151 North Franklin, and 55 East Monroe in Chicago. He has also contributed to structural improvements for iconic commercial buildings, including the Wrigley Building and the Chicago Board of Trade Building. Many of Terry's projects have earned the firm awards and recognition from respected organizations and publications such as the Structural Engineers Association of Illinois (SEAOI) and the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI), highlighting his technical expertise and ability to address complex structural engineering challenges. Terry holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a specialty in structures from Purdue University and is a licensed Structural Engineer in Illinois and a Professional Engineer in multiple states. Terry is an active member of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI), contributing to ACI Committees 362 (Parking Structures) and 546 (Repair of Concrete). Additionally, Terry ramped up K&H's initiative in utilizing drones for building inspection and is himself a certified FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot. Reflecting on his appointment, Terry said, "Leading Klein & Hoffman into its next chapter is an incredible honor. I am dedicated to building on our legacy of innovation and excellence, fostering growth, and delivering unparalleled solutions for our clients." Homa Ghaemi, who will remain with the firm as a Senior Principal and continue serving on the Board of Directors, expressed her confidence in Terry's leadership, stating, "Terry's strategic vision, technical expertise, and dedication to K&H make him the ideal leader to guide the firm into the future. His ability to build strong relationships and deliver exceptional results will continue to propel K&H forward." As CEO, Terry aims to expand K&H's services into emerging markets, leverage technology to improve client outcomes, and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. About Klein & Hoffman Klein & Hoffman is a leader in structural & architectural engineering services, specializing in building envelope and infrastructure rehabilitation. With a legacy of excellence spanning over 70 years, K&H remains dedicated to delivering innovative, efficient, and creative solutions for its clients. For more information about Klein & Hoffman, visit kleinandhoffman.com. For more information, please contact: Alesha Shaw Director of Marketing 312.251.1900 kleinandhoffman.com SOURCE Klein & Hoffman Hosting a week of celebration events, promos, giveaways and raising funds for a local non-profit SARASOTA, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Toasted Yolk Cafe is opening its fifth Florida location on January 6, 2025, in Sarasota near Lakewood Ranch. This second location is excited to bring its unique take on breakfast and brunch closer to the Lakewood Ranch community. Guests can enjoy a one-of-a-kind breakfast, lunch and brunch experience with delectable brunch favorites like the Shrimp N' Grits as well as The Toasted Yolk's famous, boozy morning cocktails from the brand's full bar. The Toasted Yolk Cafe The Toasted Yolk Cafe The Sarasota cafe will be owned and operated by the cofounders of the brand, Chris and Kelly Milton through CKYOLK, LLC. This location will be the couple's second in Sarasota, with another location in Bradenton as the two continue to grow The Toasted Yolk brand throughout the state. As part of the cafe's opening week, they will be offering daily giveaways and specials to celebrate their opening in addition to hosting two days on Thursday, January 9, 2025, and Friday, January 10, 2025 to raise funds for an amazing local charity. A portion of the days total sales will go to support the local charity the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, an organization that enhances the quality of life in and near the community by responding to local needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. Guests who come in this week have a chance to receive a gift and also enter to win free breakfast for a year. When visiting The Toasted Yolk Cafe, guests can enjoy the distinctive menu while also supporting a good cause, as The Toasted Yolk Cafe continues to give back to the community and to make a meaningful impact on other community members. The Toasted Yolk Cafe offers a deliciously creative menu with traditional breakfast and brunch choices like the Cowboy Scramble, the Yolkwich, and the Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs as well as many brunch cocktails including the Rise 'N' Shine Punch, Bloody Maria, and Jackie's Morning Rita. The new restaurant is located at 6562 University Parkway, Suite 150 Sarasota, FL 34240 and will be open daily 7:00AM - 3:00PM starting Dec 19, 2024. The Toasted Yolk Cafe: It's Never Too Early To Get Toasted. About The Toasted Yolk Cafe The Toasted Yolk Cafe is a full-service neighborhood eatery featuring reimagined interpretations of traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch classics. Founded by longtime friends Chris Milton and Mathew DeMott in Houston, Texas in 2010, The Toasted Yolk is committed to unwavering quality of food, farm-to-table freshness and unmatched service. Its menus are tailored to meals enjoyed throughout the day, allowing diners to enjoy egg specialties and coffee in the morning, boozy cocktails and savory pancakes at brunch, and a variety of delicious salads, sandwiches and soups at lunch. The Toasted Yolk currently operates 43 locations throughout the South with more than 14 units in the development process in Texas, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi and Arizona. For more information, visit thetoastedyolk.com and follow The Toasted Yolk on Facebook and Instagram. Media Contact: Michael Fandel, Galiant Solutions, Inc. [email protected] 888.698.7612 SOURCE The Toasted Yolk Cafe Get the full ranking and interactive report at TomTom Traffic Index AMSTERDAM, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TomTom (TOM2), the leading location technology specialist, today released the 14th edition of its annual Traffic Index, providing data and insights on traffic trends in 500 cities across 62 countries throughout 2024. This year's report is the largest-ever, with data collected for more than 100 new cities. Using unified metrics, cities are ranked based on their average travel time, as well as congestion level. Traffic patterns in New-York, the slowest U.S. city Traffic patterns in Los Angeles, the most congested U.S. metropolitan area Findings reveal significant trends in urban mobility, with U.S. cities generally experiencing increased traffic congestion and slower traffic speeds compared to 2023. Globally, out of the 500 cities included in the Traffic Index, 379 (76%) saw their overall average speed decrease compared to 2023. Despite this decrease, average speeds under optimal conditions, characterized by free-flowing traffic, remained stable and even showed slight improvements in most cities. This suggests that the observed deterioration in average speeds is primarily driven by dynamic factors affecting congestion levels, rather than changes in road infrastructure. Overall, the U.S. experienced an 9% increase in congestion compared to 2023 (15.4 vs 14.1). Additional key findings include: New York , San Francisco , and Honolulu were the U.S. cities with the slowest average speeds , , and were the U.S. cities with the slowest average speeds In New York (city center), a typical 6-mile trip took an average of 30 minutes (average speed: 12 mph) - and up to 35 minutes in the Brooklyn area. (city center), a typical 6-mile trip took an average of 30 minutes (average speed: 12 mph) - and up to 35 minutes in the area. Los Angeles , Honolulu , and Miami topped this year's list of most congested cities , , and topped this year's list of most congested cities New York is the nation's most congested city at peak hours, with 94 hours lost due to congestion for a 6-mile return trip (+2h42 vs 2023) is the nation's most congested city at peak hours, with 94 hours lost due to congestion for a 6-mile return trip (+2h42 vs 2023) Providence, RI , showed the largest percentage increase in congestion among U.S. cities, with a jump of almost 50% from 2023 (from 21% to 31%) Ranking: The top 10 U.S. cities with the slowest average speeds in 2024 City State Average travel time for a 6-mile trip Avg Speed (mph) 2024 2023 diff. 2024 2023 1. New York NY 30:01 29:21 +2.3 % 12.0 mph 12.2 mph 2. San Francisco CA 25:37 25:08 +1.9 % 14.0 mph 14.4 mph 3. Honolulu HI 19:56 19:49 +0.6 % 18.0 mph 18.2 mph 4. Chicago IL 19:10 18:36 +3.0 % 18.8 mph 19.3 mph 5. Philadelphia PA 18:54 18:17 +3.4 % 19.0 mph 19.7 mph 6. New Haven CT 18:38 18:15 +2.1 % 19.3 mph 19.7 mph 7. Columbia SC 18:25 18:16 +0.9 % 19.5 mph 19.7 mph 8. Washington DC 17:56 17:28 +2.8 % 20.1 mph 20.6 mph 9. New Orleans LA 17:37 17:03 +3.4 % 20.4 mph 21.1 mph 10. Miami FL 17:03 16:32 +3.2 % 21.1 mph 21.8 mph Traffic patterns in New-York, the slowest U.S. city In Brooklyn, the average travel time was 35 minutes and 29 seconds for a 6-mile trip. Ranking: Top 10 U.S. cities with the highest congestion levels The congestion level of a city measures the relative increase in all travel times recorded over the year, compared with reference travel times, which are those observed in the same city when traffic is completely free-flowing. City State Average Annual Congestion Level (%) 2024 2023 diff. 1. Los Angeles CA 43 42 +4.3 % 2. Honolulu HI 34 33 +3.7 % 3. Miami FL 33 30 +11.0 % 4. Fort Myers FL 32 30 +7.0 % 5. San Francisco CA 32 30 +6.0 % 6. Tampa FL 32 28 +13.1 % 7 Chicago IL 31 28 +9.9 % 8. Seattle WA 31 28 +11.4 % 9. Providence RI 31 21 +48.8 % 10. Atlanta GA 31 28 +9.2 % Traffic patterns in Los Angeles, the most congested U.S. metropolitan area In the Santa Monica area, the average annual congestion level was above 52%. Ranking: Top 10 U.S. cities who lost the most time due to peak-hour congestion For each city, TomTom calculated the average total travel time for a commuter who covered a typical 6-mile journey twice a day during morning and evening peak hours, and the total time lost over 2024 due to congestion. City State Hours lost due congestion Total travel time at peak hours 2024 2023 diff. 2024 2023 diff. New York NY 94 hrs 89 hrs 5.5 % 275 hrs 270 hrs 2.1 % San Francisco CA 81 hrs 77 hrs 4.7 % 239 hrs 234 hrs 2.1 % Los Angeles CA 71 hrs 68 hrs 3.8 % 165 hrs 162 hrs 1.9 % Honolulu HI 71 hrs 67 hrs 5.2 % 187 hrs 183 hrs 2.1 % Chicago IL 63 hrs 60 hrs 5.0 % 182 hrs 178 hrs 2.3 % Miami FL 60 hrs 56 hrs 8.2 % 160 hrs 155 hrs 3.7 % Boston MA 59 hrs 55 hrs 8.7 % 160 hrs 154 hrs 3.7 % Washington DC 57 hrs 54 hrs 6.2 % 171 hrs 167 hrs 2.4 % Seattle WA 51 hrs 48 hrs 8.1 % 150 hrs 146 hrs 2.7 % Providence RI 51 hrs 33 hrs 53.5 % 136 hrs 116 hrs 17.4 % A Call to Action for Smarter Mobility As urban areas continue to expand, traffic congestion is becoming an increasingly pressing issue that needs to be addressed. "The combination of population and economic growth is putting significant strain on our transportation networks," said Ralf-Peter Schafer, Vice President of Traffic at TomTom. "Outdated infrastructure and inefficient road planning fail to keep pace with demand. Additionally, the surge in e-commerce has led to a rise in freight traffic, further complicating the situation. Without a shift towards more regulation and sustainable transportation options, we risk worsening congestion that impacts everyone in our cities." TomTom's Traffic Index underscores the importance of leveraging data to design smarter urban environments. Collecting real-time data from over 600 million connected devices, TomTom's Annual Traffic Index equips a wide range of stakeholders with the data-driven insights needed to transform urban mobility. By offering a comprehensive look at traffic patterns and congestion levels, the Traffic Index empowers city planners and government officials to make informed decisions about infrastructure investments, public transportation initiatives, and traffic management strategies. Businesses can leverage the data to optimize logistics, streamline supply chains, and enhance delivery routes, leading to cost savings and improved efficiency. Automakers can utilize these insights to develop advanced navigation systems, traffic prediction features, and driver-assistance technologies that improve safety and enhance the overall driving experience. Additionally, policymakers can use the Index to shape effective transportation policies that promote sustainability, reduce congestion, and improve the quality of life in cities. "Urban mobility is the result of the interplay between static factors that determine the potential for efficient travel, and dynamic factors that create variations and disruptions experienced by road users," adds Schaffer. "Our traffic data allows urban planners to understand these factors, for them to design cities that balance mobility, safety, and accessibility." TomTom's 2024 Traffic Index, Traffic Volumes and much more will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show (Jan 7-10) at TomTom's meeting space , located at Booth W311 + W312 on the third level of the West Hall within the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more or schedule a meeting with TomTom at CES, visit: https://www.tomtom.com/events/trade-show/ces-2025/ About the TomTom Traffic Index For the past 14 years, the TomTom Traffic Index has served as a comprehensive resource for understanding global traffic patterns. Powered by data collected from over 600 million devices and over 61 billion anonymous GPS data points around the world, the Traffic Index uses a representative sample of this data to offer insights into travel times and congestion impacts, highlighting the global evolution of traffic throughout the year. TomTom traffic data provides detailed information of traffic patterns (speeds, accelerations, travel times and km driven). A barometer of mobility patterns around the world, the TomTom Traffic Index is an authoritative indicator of how people move, economic activity levels, global trade and much more. For years, TomTom's Traffic Index has been used by analysts, corporations and the media to explain a world in flux. 2024 TomTom Traffic Index Methodology The TomTom Traffic Index utilizes floating car data collected from various sources to enhance traffic services. For this new edition, TomTom analyzed a representative sample covering 737 billion kilometers driven in 2024, enabling the tracking and demonstration of how traffic patterns have changed in cities worldwide. TomTom has revised its method for defining city centers and metropolitan areas to better reflect actual traffic conditions and enable standardized comparisons between cities. TomTom maps all traffic flows on a hexagonal grid system to identify interconnected areas within the city; the "city center" is defined as the cluster of densest hexagons that account for 20% of all trips, while the "metropolitan area" encompasses all hexagons representing 80% of all trips within the city. The differences in travel times (or average speeds) across cities stem from a combination of static and dynamic factors that significantly influence traffic flow and overall driving conditions. Static factors are fixed aspects of a city's infrastructure and planning that influence travel times. The design of road networks, including highways, arterial roads, and residential streets, impacts traffic flow. Narrow streets, one-way systems, and complex intersections can slow movement, while wider, multi-lane roads support smoother flow. Speed limits, often set for safety, and high-density areas with frequent stops or pedestrian zones also affect driving speeds. Traffic light synchronization, roundabouts, and stop signs further shape navigation efficiency. Complementing these static factors are dynamic factors, that is ever-evolving conditions that impact traffic flow on a daily basis. Traffic congestion during peak hours, special events, and seasonal traffic surges lead to higher vehicle density, causing delays. Construction projects and road closures disrupt normal traffic patterns, often necessitating detours. Weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can reduce visibility and road traction, forcing drivers to slow down. Unexpected obstructions, such as car accidents, can create bottlenecks and lead to rerouted traffic. About TomTom Billions of data points. Millions of sources. Thousands of communities. We are the mapmaker bringing it all together to build the world's smartest map. We provide location data and technology to drivers, carmakers, businesses and developers. Our application-ready maps, routing, real-time traffic, APIs and SDKs empower the dreamers and doers to move our world forward. Headquartered in Amsterdam with 3,700 employees around the globe, TomTom has been shaping the future of mobility for over 30 years. www.tomtom.com Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=0013000001KaMfqAAF SOURCE TomTom With this acquisition, UOVO Wine will add to its existing portfolio the established Vino Vault facilities in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Houston, and Denver, re-branding them under the UOVO Wine name. This expansion further solidifies UOVO Wine's position as the storage and service provider of choice for wine collectors across the nation. With three sites in Los Angeles, UOVO will more easily service new and existing clients across Southern California. A location in Port Chester, New York will provide a new level of convenience to clients in New York City, Long Island, and Connecticut. Additional facilities in Dallas, Houston, and Denver will strengthen UOVO's presence throughout the Western and Southern regions of the United States. The newly acquired Vino Vault facilities will now offer UOVO's unparalleled level of white glove management, transit, and advisory services. Benefits include access to a national advisory team to assist with buying, selling, or organizing a home cellar; a concierge pick-up program ensuring convenient temperature-controlled shipping between locations and from wineries and retailers; managing wine importation; on-site facility lounges and tasting events; and preferred access to rare wines and in-house online offers through UOVO's Cellar Trading retail program. "The acquisition of Vino Vault demonstrates our commitment to expand and evolve our wine management services and locations to meet our clients' needs. We are excited to share our expertise and services with clients in these established wine collecting communities," says Nick Coslov, Co-Founder and Board member of UOVO. "We are thrilled to expand our wine services and resources to existing and new clients. UOVO Wine's top priority is to provide high quality and innovative solutions to wine collectors across the country. We are dedicated to expanding our network so that our clients' collections will always be within reach," says Jeff Stein, Chief Executive Officer of UOVO Wine. About UOVO: Art, Fashion and Wine UOVO is the premier luxury storage and logistics provider for fine art, fashion, and wine. With 30 facilities across the U.S., our expert team of industry professionals offers bespoke solutions to meet the specialized needs of any collection. UOVO offers comprehensive stewardship of both world-class commercial and personal collections at our purpose-designed, state-of-the-art facilities. From maintenance, preservation, archiving, cataloging, to shipping, storage, and installation, UOVO goes beyond storage to create a unique experience on par with elite hospitality, managed through one-to-one personal relationships and full digital optimization. Press Contact: Zach Wampler THIRD EYE [email protected] SOURCE UOVO WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The US Council for International Business (USCIB) has released policy recommendations for the incoming Trump-Vance administration. The recommendations reflect USCIB's mission to promote US economic growth and competitiveness, which is critical to the vitality of USCIB's 300 members and the nearly 12 million workers they employ. The document urges US engagement and leadership in global institutions to foster open markets, shared prosperity, US innovation, regulatory coherence, and a level playing field. USCIB looks forward to working with the new administration to stand up for US business competitiveness, market access, and innovation. About USCIB: The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) powers the success of US business across the globe. Our members include US-based companies and professional services firms from every sector of the economy, with operations in every region of the world. As the US affiliate of leading international business organizations including Business at OECD (BIAC), The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and The International Organization of Employers (IOE), USCIB advances the US business perspective to policymakers and regulatory authorities worldwide and works to facilitate commerce, support sustainable development, and build trust in multilateral systems. USCIB is also the national guaranteeing and issuing association for ATA Carnets, a unified international customs document that allows for the temporary import and export of various types of goods into a foreign country without paying duties or taxes. Learn more at www.uscib.org. SOURCE United States Council for International Business TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 7. Uzbekistan's Oliy Majlis (Parliament) has approved in the first reading a draft law prohibiting the circulation of e-cigarettes and related liquids, Trend reports. The law was approved at the regular meeting of the Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan's Parliament. The legislation bans the production, manufacture, storage, transportation, import, and export of electronic nicotine delivery systems within the country. Moreover, the draft law also establishes penalties for offenses related to the illegal distribution of smokeless tobacco products and nicotine consumption devices, including e-cigarettes. Earlier, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Health proposed to ban the circulation of electronic nicotine delivery systems and liquids for them, including electronic cigarettes as well as tobacco heating systems. The Ministry of Health also proposed to introduce administrative and criminal liability for violation of this ban - a fine in the amount of $1,000 to five years of imprisonment. MOBILE, Ala., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Please join the University of South Alabama for its next USA by the Bay Eastern Shore Speaker Series event to be held Thursday, Jan. 16 at 5:30 p.m. The talk will feature Dr. Michael L. Capella, the Abraham A. Mitchell Endowed Dean of the USA Mitchell College of Business. Capella will discuss economic activity and workforce development in the Mobile region as well as opportunities for growth within the Mitchell College of Business. As dean, Capella is responsible for the strategic direction and enrollment growth of the college. Previously, Capella served as dean of the College of Business at Loyola University New Orleans and associate dean of graduate and executive programs and professor of marketing at the Villanova University School of Business. Before earning a Ph.D. in Marketing from Mississippi State University, Capella spent nearly 10 years in professional sales management with a food manufacturer. His industry experience included account management and relationship marketing with large retail grocery chains, wholesale accounts and channel intermediaries in Georgia, Florida and California. USA by the Bay is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and registration is required. Media Contact: Amber Day [email protected] SOURCE University of South Alabama Urinary Tract Infections Are Common. VOLURINE Is a Safe Supplement That Naturally Addresses the Issue. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- There are 8 million visits to the doctor due to UTIs each year. Despite this high frequency of occurrences, his common health condition is not just easy to address with medicine. Certain natural supplements, like SYNEVIT's VOLURINE, can reduce the likelihood of them forming in the first place. Urinary tract infections are both common and painful. Although men and children can also develop a UTI, they are overwhelmingly found in women, who have a 40% chance of developing a UTI in their lifetime. These infections can be painful and uncomfortable. Once developed, the common doctor-recommended solution is to use antibiotics. While effective, antibiotics are a reactionary solution. For those prone to developing UTIs, taking preventative measures can be a way to avoid developing an infection in the first place. "Prevention is the best medicine," said SYNEVIT founder George Cvetkovski. "VOLURINE is designed to be a safe, effective solution that gives the body what it needs to defend itself from forming an infection." As with all SYNEVIT supplements, the VOLURINE formula is sourced from natural active ingredients, such as a naturally occurring D-Mannose sugar and cranberry extract. These are two ingredients that are known for supporting urinary tract health. D-Mannose, for instance, has shown signs of efficacy rivaling that of antibiotics. Cranberries have also been shown to fight bacterial adhesion to the walls of the bladder. While effective in theory, these ingredients must be present in adequate concentrations to be effective. Cvetkovski emphasizes that this doesn't mean they need to be taken in excessive quantities. Just the right amounts. For this, his team of medical professionals turn to recommended daily allowance (RDA) quantities to provide maximum impact without being excessive. "Our formulas have the highest RDA level," he explained. "We follow the rules without going above them, like so many other reckless supplement brands, because it's not good for the people to overrun their system with excessive supplements. They just need enough to help their bodies do what they need to do." In the case of a UTI, that is to prevent a bacterial infection from occurring. VOLURINE helps SYNEVIT customers protect and strengthen their urinary tracts so that they can minimize the possibility of having to face a painful and inconvenient infection of that nature in the future. About SYNEVIT Launched in 1998 by CEO George Cvetkovski, SYNEVIT traces its roots to North Macedonia (ex: Yugoslavia). The brand is currently headquartered out of North Macedonia with offices in Serbia and Rochester, New York. SYNEVIT is an in-house brand of vitamins and minerals with unique, perpetually improved formulas informed by on-staff doctors and pharmacists and designed for therapeutic effect in patients. Learn more at synevit.com. Contact: George Cvetkovski 388376@email4pr.com (02) 3225 843 SOURCE Synevit LEESBURG, Va., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Whitlock Law is thrilled to announce several changes taking place heading into the new year. The firm has opened a new office in Leesburg, Virginia. It has also hired Attorney Amy Harber, which will allow it to expand its legal services to provide criminal defense representation to clients throughout Virginia. Whitlock Law - Leesburg Criminal Defense Firm Whitlock Law opened its new location in Leesburg in order to better serve its Virginia clients. From this office, Whitlock Law will represent personal injury clients as well as those facing criminal charges. The firm can address charges including DUI, drug crimes, sex crimes, traffic violations, white-collar crimes, assault, and more. The Leesburg office complements the firm's other locations in Silver Spring, Bowie, Frederick, Chesapeake, Manassas, and Glen Allen. Attorney Amy Harber joined Whitlock Law in the fall of 2024. She handles cases throughout Virginia, representing clients in personal injury, criminal defense, and various civil litigation matters. Before joining Whitlock Law, Attorney Harber worked as a Senior Attorney at Allstate Insurance, obtaining over $2 million in subrogation recoveries. She also worked as an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney, prosecuting criminal cases. About Whitlock Law Whitlock Law was opened by Attorney Morgan Whitlock in 2017. Licensed to practice law in the states of Virginia and Maryland, Attorney Whitlock and her team have dedicated their careers to advocating for those injured in car, truck, and motorcycle accidents as well as premises liability and animal attacks. The firm also handles criminal cases and civil litigation concerns. Whitlock Law consists of Attorneys Whitlock, Ellie Emani, and Amy Harber. If you or someone you know is in need of competent and dedicated representation in either a personal injury or criminal matter, do not hesitate to contact Whitlock Law. To learn more about Whitlock Law, visit https://www.whitlocklawllc.com/. For a free consultation, call 301-565-1655. SOURCE Whitlock Law BUFFALO, N.Y., Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Western New York continues to navigate the challenges of winter, WNY Bus Co. reaffirms its commitment to safe and reliable transportation for students across Erie County. With heavy snow and icy conditions being a normal part of the region's winters, WNY Bus Co . is fully prepared to handle the demands of transporting students safely, even during the toughest weather. Winter weather, particularly lake-effect snow, presents unique challenges that require extra caution and adaptability. While WNY Bus Co. strives to maintain its schedule, delays are sometimes unavoidable when prioritizing the safety of students, drivers, and other road users. "Our team is fully prepared for the challenges that winter brings, but we also want families to understand that safety comes first," said Igor Finkelshtein , President of WNY Bus Co. "When snow is falling heavily and roads are slippery, we take every precaution to ensure that our buses are operating as safely as possible, even if that means occasional delays." WNY Bus Co.'s winter readiness efforts include: Ongoing Driver Training : Drivers are equipped with the skills to handle winter road conditions, ensuring they are prepared to navigate snow and ice safely. : Drivers are equipped with the skills to handle winter road conditions, ensuring they are prepared to navigate snow and ice safely. Routine Fleet Maintenance : Regular inspections focus on ensuring tires, brakes, and other critical systems are optimized for winter performance. : Regular inspections focus on ensuring tires, brakes, and other critical systems are optimized for winter performance. Collaborative Weather Monitoring: The company works closely with local authorities and school districts to assess road conditions and adjust routes and schedules as necessary. Additionally, WNY Bus Co. emphasizes clear communication with families to manage expectations during winter. By providing timely updates on potential delays through school district channels, the company ensures that parents and guardians are well-informed. "Winter in Western New York is unpredictable, but we're ready," added Finkelshtein . "We ask for patience and understanding from families as we navigate these conditions. Our top priority is getting students to school safely, even if it takes a little longer during snowy days." WNY Bus Co. encourages parents to plan ahead and allow extra time during winter months, understanding that the company's safety-first approach is designed to protect students, no matter how challenging the weather may be. About WNY Bus Co. WNY Bus Co. is a Buffalo-based school transportation provider, serving Western New York with a focus on safety, reliability, and inclusivity. Known for its highly trained drivers and advanced safety protocols, WNY Bus Co. continues to ensure the safe and timely transportation of students, even during the harsh winter months. Contact: Igor Finkelshtein +1 (716) 444-2288 [email protected] SOURCE WNY Bus Co. NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global workforce management software market size is estimated to grow by USD 3.67 billion from 2025 to 2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% 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 Workforce Management Software Market 2025-2029 Report Attribute Details Base Year 2024 Forecast period 2025-2029 Historic Data for 2019 - 2023 Segments Covered End-user (IT and telecom, BFSI, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Others), Deployment (Cloud based and On-premises), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America) Key Companies Covered ActiveOps PLC, Advanced Computer Software Group Ltd., ATOSS Software AG, Automatic Data Processing Inc., Bamboo HR LLC, Ceridian HCM Holding Inc., International Business Machines Corp., Koch Industries Inc., NICE Ltd., Oracle Corp, Panasonic Holdings Corp., Paycor HCM Inc., PTC Inc., Rippling People Center Inc., Sage Group Plc, SAP SE, UKG Inc., Verint Systems Inc., Workday Inc., and Zoho Corp. Pvt. Ltd. Regions Covered North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Region Outlook North America Europe Asia Rest of World 1. North America - North America is estimated to contribute 39%. To the growth of the global market. The Workforce Management Software Market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels from 2017 to 2027. The North American workforce management software market is experiencing significant growth due to increased penetration of social media and the high demand for cost-effective HR solutions. Organizations are adopting these software solutions to manage their workforce, foster innovation, promote growth, and boost profits. The rising employment rate in North America, particularly in the US, is a major factor driving this trend. Digital technologies have revolutionized HR functions, enabling swift execution of processes without interruptions. Mobile applications for workforce management are increasingly popular in US staffing systems. Workforce management solutions are essential tools for enhancing organizational performance. 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 End-user 1.1 IT and telecom 1.2 BFSI 1.3 Healthcare 1.4 Manufacturing 1.5 Others Deployment 2.1 Cloud based 2.2 On-premises Geography 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 Middle East and Africa and 3.5 South America 1.1 Fastest growing segment: Cloud-based workforce management software allows businesses to manage their employees remotely with accessibility from anywhere via the internet. This solution offers features such as time tracking, scheduling, and communication. The cloud- segment is projected to expand rapidly due to its ability to provide global, up-to-date information from a unified platform. Enterprises benefit from reliability, visibility, and flexibility to accommodate diverse HR needs worldwide. Cloud-based workforce management software can be deployed faster and updated seamlessly, providing users with the latest functionalities without additional client effort. These advantages make cloud-based WFM software increasingly popular for managing dynamic and remote workforces, fueling the market's growth during 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 Workforce Management Software market is a dynamic and evolving industry that caters to businesses seeking to optimize their workforce and streamline operations. This software solutions segment encompasses a range of applications, including remote work tools, employee management systems, labor management software, and staff scheduling solutions. These platforms enable businesses to effectively manage their workforce, predict workforce needs, and optimize scheduling for various industries such as healthcare and field services. Key features of workforce management software include task management, workforce prediction, time tracking, and labor analytics. Additionally, mobile applications, AI, predictive analytics, and business intelligence solutions are increasingly being integrated to enhance productivity, customer service, and compliance with labor laws. Hybrid workforces, including in-store employees and IT resources, also benefit from these solutions, allowing for efficient management of both remote and on-premises teams. Market Overview The Workforce Management Software market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing trend of remote work and the need for efficient Employee Management, Labor Management, and HR Management in various industries. The market caters to Business Operations in sectors like Healthcare, Construction, Packaging, Aerospace, and Manufacturing, among others. This software enables Workforce Prediction, Scheduling, Task Management, Rewards, and Time and Attendance tracking. It also offers Workforce Optimization through AI and Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, and Big Data analysis. The market includes solutions for Contact Centers, Back Offices, Energy and Utilities, and IT Resources. Compliance with labor laws and resource allocation are crucial aspects of this software. The market is witnessing a shift towards digital solutions, including mobile applications, and the adoption of cloud segment for its scalability and accessibility. Remote workforces, including in-store employees, field service providers, and remote agents, are also being effectively managed through these solutions. Employee training and fatigue management are additional features that enhance productivity and ensure workforce readiness. 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 XI'AN, China, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- zMaticoo, an emerging leader of advanced programmatic advertising solutions, is proud to officially announce its recent achievement of Google SDK Index Certification. Google Play SDK Index is a platform introduced by Google to assist developers in selecting secure and reliable SDKs more effectively. Achieving certification signifies that the zMaticoo SDK has successfully undergone rigorous audits by Google Play, demonstrating compliance across various key areas, including user scale, security, legal compliance, and stability. As an SDK solution selected and integrated by leading global developers such as WeTV, Amanotes, Wonder, TapNation, and Xflow etc., the zMatico SDK not only incorporates a comprehensive array of functional modules but also demonstrates exceptional performance in both stability and security. Now, developers can access the zMaticoo SDK to: 01 Seamlessly Access Premium Advertising Resources with Comprehensive Technical Support 02 Optimizing User Experience and Traffic Value Utilization 03 Boosting Advertising Monetization Efficiency Through Precise Data Analysis and Rapid Optimization zMaticoo regularly reviews media performance, identifies stages with low conversion rates, and uses A/B or multi-variant testing to analyze developer performance after monetization. By automating reporting and promptly addressing issues with developer teams, strategies can be swiftly adjusted to maximize revenue. Additionally, zMaticoo has formed a strategic partnership with GeoEdge, a global leader in ad security and quality, to establish a strong ad verification system that protects developers' monetization efforts. Looking ahead, "zMaticoo will continue to collaborate with global advertising partners, push the boundaries of technological innovation. We remain committed to providing developers with increasingly stable and compliant products and services, fostering a secure and transparent mobile development ecosystem together." said Sunny Yang, Commercial Director at zMaticoo. About zMaticoo zMaticoo is an advanced advertising platform that offers programmatic solutions powered by innovation and artificial intelligence technology. It connects buyers and media channels through real-time data, delivering brand awareness, traffic monetization and user acquisition efficiently for global clients. SOURCE zMaticoo In Partnership with Redfoo of LMFAO, This Fresh Spin on Sexy Launches January 7 MIAMI, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zumba, the global dance-fitness phenomenon, is kicking off the New Year with a bold campaign that's redefining the fitness conversation. The "Say It. Believe It." campaign is anchored with the song "Sexy and I Know It" and naturally features LMFAO frontman and chart-topping artist Redfoo, inspiring people to embrace their inner confidence and sexiness, however they define it. Say it. Believe. it. ZUMBA AND REDFOO TEAM UP TO ELIMINATE "RESOLUTION POLLUTION" WITH NEW CAMPAIGN "SAY IT. BELIEVE IT." "New Year's resolutions often feel heavy with pressure to change or conform, and that's just not our vibe," said Carolina Morales, Chief Marketing Officer of Zumba. "With 'Say It. Believe It.' we wanted to create a campaign that's all about celebrating confidence and self-expression. Partnering with Redfoo was a no-brainerhis infectious personality, love for fun, and the undeniable confidence of 'Sexy and I Know It' make him the perfect fit to remind people to embrace their sexy, just as they are." Redfoo, known for his electric energy and unapologetic personality, echoes this sentiment. "To me, the sexiest thing anyone can be is themselves," said Redfoo. "That's why I'm so excited to team up with Zumba for this campaign. Zumba is all about bringing more happiness to the world, and that's a mission I can get behind. Plus, dancing in a Zumba class is just pure funyou're sweating, you're smiling, and you're feeling yourself. What's better than that?" "Say It. Believe It." officially launches this January with TV and Digital ads that will run globally, as well as social media activations that will run from January 7 through the end of March. Zumba invites everyone, regardless of fitness level, to step into the New Year feeling empowered and ready to have fun. Because at the end of the day, fitness should be as much about smiling as it is about sweating. For more information, visit www.zumba.com or follow on social @zumba. Campaign Credits: Carolina Moraes, Zumba Chief Marketing Officer Adela Souto, Zumba Creative Director Rebecca Dorfman, Zumba Senior Director of Consumer Marketing Evan Wiggill, An Agency Called Us / Creative Director Seth Epstein, Los York/ Director Octopus Studios, Production Media contact: Rebecca Dorfman, [email protected] About Zumba Fitness, LLC Founded in 2001, Zumba is the largest branded dance fitness company in the world reporting more than 15 million weekly participants, in 200,000 locations, across 185 countries. Zumba blends world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography for an effective workout that empowers participants to become their best selves - mind, body and soul. In addition to its original Zumba program, the company offers 10 Zumba specialty classes from aquatic-based to those specifically designed for active older adults and children. In 2016, Zumba launched its first non-dance, HIIT workout STRONG Nation, where music acts as the main motivator. In 2023, Zumba launched CIRCL Mobility, a revolutionary new program designed to unlock the body's full potential through flexibility, breathwork, and mobility exercises. The Zumba lifestyle is rounded out by the company's many consumer product offerings, including video games, VR +MR experiences, original music, activewear and footwear, and interactive Fitness-Concert events. For more information about Zumba's programs and products, or to find a live class, visit zumba.com . Follow us on TikTok , Instagram and Facebook . SOURCE Zumba Fitness TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 7. Uzbekistan opened a trade house in Tajikistan, Uzsanoatqurilishmateriallari (Uzbekistan Association of Industrial Construction Materials) told Trend. It is planned to further increase the export of construction materials and enhance trade relations between the two countries' business communities. During the event, B2B meetings between the entrepreneurs of both countries were also organized. Currently, negotiations are underway to further increase the export of autoclaved aerated concrete blocks, heat-insulating plates, natural stones, wallpapers, and other products to Tajikistan. Meanwhile, the Uzsanoatqurilishmateriallari association has already opened trade houses in the capitals of Azerbaijan and AfghanistanBaku and Kabul. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 7. Uzbekistan's Samarkand region is gearing up to roll out the red carpet for the Central Asia-EU Summit this year, as Uzbekistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov shared on his Telegram channel, Trend reports. "I engaged in a telephonic discussion with Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission. We addressed numerous subjects pertaining to bilateral and multilateral collaboration," he wrote. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Aden, Jan 7 : United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg arrived in the Yemeni capital Sanaa, 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 on Monday 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 emphasised that his visit aims to "urge for concrete and essential actions" by the Houthi group to advance the peace process, Xinhua news agency reported. 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 organisations. Yemen has been in a state of uneasy calm since October 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. Jerusalem, Jan 7 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced 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 on Monday, 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, Xinhua news agency reported. 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. Earlier 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. 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. Ankara, Jan 7 : Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hinted at the possibility of a new cross-border military operation in Syria if Turkey perceives threats to its national security. "Turkey has often shown that it has an uncompromising will to protect its survival. If it comes to that point, we may come again suddenly one night," Erdogan said on Monday following a cabinet meeting in Ankara. The Turkish leader also addressed the broader implications of Syria's latest development, stressing Turkey's stance against the fragmentation of Syria, Xinhua news agency reported. "We will not consent to the disintegration of Syria and the disruption of its unitary structure. If we see a risk in this regard, we will take the necessary steps swiftly," he said. Turkey has conducted multiple military operations in Syria since 2016, citing threats from Kurdish armed groups and instability along its border. Previous cross-border operations include "Euphrates Shield" (2016), "Olive Branch" (2018), and "Peace Spring" (2019), which primarily targeted the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in northern Syria. Ankara considers the YPG as the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The PKK, designated as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the US, and the European Union, has been engaged in armed rebellion against the Turkish government for four decades. Earlier in December 2024, the Turkish army 'neutralised' five members of the outlawed Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) and Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in Syria and Iraq, the Defence Ministry announced it later. In a statement on X, the ministry reported that three 'terrorists' from PKK and YPG were 'neutralised' in the Euphrates Shield region of northern Syria. Turkey considers the YPG group as the Syrian branch of the PKK. Additionally, two other PKK members were 'neutralised' in the Claw-Lock Operation area in northern Iraq, according to the ministry. "We will continue our fight against terrorism with the same determination and resolve, without compromise, as we have until now," the ministry stated. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. Iran's adherence to the working group on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) may simplify the investment process in the country, spokesperson for the Iranian government, Fatemeh Mohajerani, said in a press briefing in Tehran on January 7, Trend reports. According to her, the FATF comprises 42 treaties, of which Iran has executed 40 over the years. The CFT (combating the financing of terrorism) and Palermo agreements have not been ratified in the country. The two accords are presently being evaluated by the Advisory Council at the request of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. Mohajerani elucidated that the aforementioned accords pertain to the counteraction of terrorism facilitation and the mitigation of financial malfeasance associated with money laundering. Undoubtedly, the execution of these two accords is presently underway within the national framework. The financial institutions in Iran are not engaged in illicit money transfer activities. The official pointed out that even its dealings with friendly nations will hit a snag if Iran doesn't get its act together and comply with the FATF guidelines. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development is an intergovernmental body that regulates the rules for combating money laundering and terrorist financing. At the last meeting of this organization, Iran was warned that if the country's program of steps is not improved, Iran may be added to the list of non-cooperative countries. Iran has complied with 37 out of 41 FATF steps. The remaining four steps or conventions fall under the scope of the legislation. "Amendments to the Law on Combating Money Laundering," "Amendments to the Law on Combating the Financing of Terrorism," "Accession to the International Convention on Combating Transnational Organized Crime (Palermo)," and Accession to the International Convention on Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) have been drafted by the Iranian government and sent to the parliament. Although the four conventions were approved by the parliament and sent to the Advisory Council, the CFT conventions and the Palermo Convention have not yet been approved by the mentioned council. The G7 group founded the FATF in 1989 to address money laundering. The organization comprises 37 members, with its administration situated in Paris. The FATF designated Iran as a high-risk jurisdiction in 2007 and enacted formal sanctions on Tehran in 2009. Consequently, nations needed to exercise prudence in financial and banking transactions with Iran. Since 2016, diplomatic initiatives have postponed the implementation of retaliatory actions on Iran. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) designated Iran as a non-cooperative country (blacklist) on February 21, 2020. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Sanaa, Jan 7 : Yemen's Houthi group said in a statement 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, Xinhua news agency reported. "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 US 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. In a brief statement posted on X, Grundberg emphasised that his visit aims to "urge for concrete and essential actions" by the Houthi group to advance the peace process, Xinhua news agency reported. 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 organisations. 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 US-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 US warships. Beirut, Jan 7 : Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati demanded that Israel halt its violations of the ceasefire agreement as Israeli forces continued their withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Mikati on Monday 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 US 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, Xinhua news agency reported. 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 US and France took effect on November 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. Jerusalem, Jan 7 : An Israeli deputy company commander and another soldier were killed, and two others were injured, in a clash with militants in northern Gaza, the Israeli military said. The military on Monday identified one of the dead as Eitan Israel Shiknazi, 24, from the settlement of Eli in the West Bank, a deputy company commander in the infantry Nahal Brigade's 932nd Battalion. He "fell during combat" in the northern Gazan city of Beit Hanoun, the military said in a statement. The name of the other fatality was not released because his family had not yet been notified, the military said, adding that he and the two injured soldiers also belonged to the 932nd Battalion. Four soldiers were hit by an anti-tank missile fired by militants at the building where they were staying, Xinhua news agency reported quoting Israel's state-owned Kan TV. The latest deaths brought the total number of Israeli soldiers killed to 827 since the beginning of the country's multi-front war in October 2023. Earlier 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. According to the Gaza health authorities on Monday, Israeli strikes have killed 45,854 people and injured 109,139 others in the Palestinian enclave since the conflict. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to announce the election schedule for the 70-member Delhi Assembly on Tuesday. The ECI in a media invite said, "Press Conference by Election Commission of India to announce the schedule for General Election to Legislative Assembly of NCT of Delhi at 2 pm." The press conference will be held in the Plenary Hall of the Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital. The term of the current Delhi Assembly ends on February 23, and the whole election process has to end before that. On Monday, the ECI released a newly revised voter list for Delhi. According to the latest figures, Delhi's voter base has grown significantly over the past two months. In October 2024, the total number of voters stood at 1,53,57,529. However, after a summary revision, this number has risen to 1,55,24,858, an addition of 1,67,329 new electorates by December 2024. The Commission has cautioned against the submission of false and fabricated documents for getting new voter ID. The ruling AAP has fielded candidates for all 70 seats. The party was the first to declare candidates for all seats. The party chief and former Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal is again fighting from the New Delhi seat. Chief Minister Atishi is contesting the Kalkaji seat The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released the first list of 29 candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections, fielding former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ministers Kailash Gahlot from Bijwasan and Raj Kumar Anand from Patel Nagar, and former Delhi Congress chief Arvind Singh Lovely from Gandhi Nagar. The party has pitted former Chief Minister Sahib Singh Vermaas son Pravesh Sahib Singh Verma in the New Delhi seat from where Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal is contesting. Former South Delhi member of Parliament (MP) Ramesh Bidhuri is fighting against Chief Minister Atishi in Kalkaji. The Congress has announced 48 candidates and its further lists are awaited. Sandeep Dikshit, the son of Delhi's former Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, will contest the 2025 Assembly elections from the New Delhi seat. Dikshit, a two-time Parliamentarian, will take on Arvind Kejriwal, who defeated Sheila Dikshit from this seat in 2013 and 2015. Congress announced Alka Lamba as their candidate from Kalkaji. Seoul, Jan 7 : Samsung Electronics will hold this year's Galaxy Unpacked event in the United States this month, company officials said on Tuesday, where the company is expected to unveil its new Galaxy S series smartphones with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features. The upcoming event will be held in San Jose, California, at 10 a.m. on Jan. 22 (U.S. time) under the theme "The Next Big Leap in Mobile AI Experiences," according to the officials, reports Yonhap news agency. "We invite you to meet Samsung Electronics' innovation, which will open new doors for mobile AI experience through natural and intuitive Galaxy AI," the company said in its invitation to the event. While Samsung did not share the detailed product lineup, Galaxy S25 flagship smartphones, including a new slim model, are expected to be unveiled at the upcoming event. The slim model is anticipated to boast the thinnest thickness of Samsung's Galaxy S series, though details have yet to be disclosed. The event will also be livestreamed on YouTube and the company's website. Samsung usually holds its biannual Unpacked events in winter and summer, according to the report. Last year, the tech giant held its winter edition of the event in San Jose in January to showcase its Galaxy S24 series and its summer edition of the event in Paris in July to unveil its latest generation of foldable smartphones and a brand new ring-type wearable. Meanwhile, the company aims to boost sales of its new foldable smartphones by more than 10 per cent, highlighting the addition of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Last year, the company mentioned that Samsung plans to add on-device Galaxy AI to about 200 million Galaxy devices by the end of the year, offering the service free of charge until 2025. a"IANS na/ United Nations, Jan 7 : Sudan "remains in the grip of a humanitarian crisis of staggering proportions" after 20 months of war, a senior United Nations official said, 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 on Monday. 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 neighbouring countries, Xinhua news agency reported. "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 mobilisation of international support," Wosornu said, and appealed for $4.2 billion of the 2025 Sudan Humanitarian needs and response plan to support nearly 21 million people, with an additional $1.8 billion required for refugees in neighbouring 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 per cent of displaced households across the country are currently unable to afford food. She called for member states to prioritise funding and ensuring "immediate and unimpeded" humanitarian access. Chennai, Jan 7 : The Telugu and Hindi versions of the Malayalam film Identity, featuring actors Tovino Thomas and Trisha Krishnan in the lead, is likely to release around January 16, one of its directors Akhil Paul has said. Talking exclusively to IANS, Akhil Paul, one of the two directors of Identity, said, "The film has been received very well in Tamil Nadu. I don't know the exact numbers at this point in time but what I have been told is that 14 more screens have been added on the second day and that each subsequent day's collections have been far better than the preceding day. This is to say day 2's collection was better than day 1 and day 3's collection was better than day 2. The collections of the fourth day, which is today, are the highest." Stating that he had personally overseen the Tamil dubbing version of the film, Akhil said, "I ensured that the film was dubbed properly in Tamil. I also made sure that along with the Malayalam version, the Tamil version of the film was also released. This is the first time that a Tovino film has been dubbed in Tamil." The director, who is extremely pleased with the response the Malayalam film has got from the Tamil audiences, said, "We are about to release a Telugu and Hindi version of the movie as well. We are having discussions on the title in these versions. I want to release the film with the same title. There is some confusion in the title but the movie is ready in both these versions. We are planning to release the Telugu and Hindi versions around January 16. " The film, which released on January 2, has a worldwide gross collection of 23.20 crore in four days and is well on its way to emerging a superhit. The film, written and directed by Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, has been produced by Raju Malliath and Dr. CJ Roy, and distributed by Gokulam Movies through Dream Big Films. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia's debut Punjabi film "Shaunki Sardar" with Guru Randhawa and Babbu Maan is all set to release on May 16, 2025 and the actress is over-the-moon with the news. Mumbai, Jan 7 (IANS) Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia's debut Punjabi film "Shaunki Sardar" with Guru Randhawa and Babbu Maan is all set to release on May 16, 2025 and the actress is over-the-moon with the news. Expressing her excitement, Nimrit said,"This is an incredibly special moment for me as I announce the release date of my debut film, Shaunki Sardar. The film is releasing on 16th May 2025, and I couldn't be happier to share this news with all of you." "Shaunki Sardar" is directed by Dheeraj Kedarnath Rattan and the film promises a powerful narrative celebrating Punjab's culture, values, and spirit. For the actress, "Shaunki Sardar" has been a learning curve. "Working on this project has been a journey of learning, growth, and immense gratitude. Sharing the screen with icons like Guru Randhawa and Babbu Maan has been surrealboth of them brought so much energy and inspiration to the set," said Nimrit, who gained the spotlight with the show "Choti Sarrdaarni". Nimrit then revealed as to why the film is even more meaningful to her. "What makes Shaunki Sardar even more meaningful to me is how deeply it resonates with Punjabi culture and traditions. It's a story that is close to my heart and one that I believe audiences will connect with on a profound level. I can't wait for you all to experience this labor of love in theatres. Mark your calendars, and I hope to see you there!" Talking about the actress, Nimrit started her career with modelling, and in 2018, she was crowned Femina Miss Manipur. She then featured in a music video titled 'Masstaani' by B Praak, which helped her step into the world of showbiz. In 2019, she began her work in the popular daily soap 'Choti Sarrdaarni, which helped her gain the spotlight. The actress was later seen in the 16th edition of the controversial reality show 'Bigg Boss', hosted by Salman Khan, where she was placed in the sixth position. She was then seen in the stunt-based reality show "Khatron Ke Khiladi" season 14. The show was won by actor Karanveer Mehra, who is currently seen in the show "Bigg Boss 18" hosted by Salman Khan. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Ahead of the release of his upcoming film "Fateh", 500 students from Sholapur paid a heartfelt tribute to Sonu Sood with an incredible 390-foot cutout poster of the Bollywood actor and humanitarian. Mumbai, Jan 7 (IANS) Ahead of the release of his upcoming film "Fateh", 500 students from Sholapur paid a heartfelt tribute to Sonu Sood with an incredible 390-foot cutout poster of the Bollywood actor and humanitarian. A record-breaking 390-foot cutout was created with custom Fateh-themed t-shirts, statues, and even decorated autos with the film's branding. The 390-foot cutout stands not only as a tribute to Sonu but also as a testament to the film's impact, even before its release. "Fateh", directed and written by Sonu, is a high-octane action thriller set against the backdrop of cybercrime. The film promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with its gripping storyline. A few days ago, Sonu visited the Samadhi of Shri Sai Baba and he stated that he seeked divine blessings for the success of his upcoming film. In an interview with IANS, the actor shared how playing the role of an ordinary man with hidden strength and determination provided him with a fresh outlook on personal growth and self-confidence. Sonu shared, "I think Fateh was my dream role, one that I always wanted to play: a common man who has a superhero inside him. I believe every individual, every common man, has a superhero within them." "You just need to discover that. I'm glad that with Fateh, I was able to discover that side of myself. And I hope that when people watch it, they not only get entertained by the script but also get inspired." Asked what Fateh means to him, he said, "I think when you can be someone's hope, it's not about how rich, famous, or influential you are." "We are all those things, but sometimes, when someone becomes a hope, a person leaves their native village in Punjab or Uttar Pradesh with the belief that when they reach out to an individual, their life will change. I think that is true Fatehwhen you can change someone's life, that's what real Fateh is." Produced by Umesh KR Bansal under Zee Studios and Sonali Sood of Shakti Sagar Productions, with Ajay Dhama as co-producer, Fateh, which also stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Naseeruddin Shah, and Vijay Raaz, is slated to release on January 10. Guwahati, Jan 7 : The water level has increased in the coal mine where at least nine labourers got trapped in Assam's Umrangso locality and deep divers of the Indian Navy were called to assist the rescue operation, said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday. The divers of the Indian Navy have flown from Visakhapatnam and are expected to reach Umrangso soon. Taking to X handle, CM Sarma wrote, "Navy deep divers have been requisitioned to assist in the rescue operation. The water level inside the mine has risen to nearly 100 feet, according to the assessment by the stationed team. The divers are flying in from Visakhapatnam and are expected to arrive soon." Meanwhile, a task force of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles reached Umrangso in the Dima Hasao district of Assam where at least nine labourers were trapped in a coal mine, officials said on Tuesday. A senior Army official said, "Engineers Task Force with equipment, divers and medical teams from the #IndianArmy and #AssamRifles have joined rescue efforts in Umrangso, Assam. All efforts are underway in close coordination with the civil administration." Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that at least nine labourers have been identified who were trapped in a coal mine in Umrango locality. The state administration and police have launched an operation to rescue the trapped labourers in the mine. According to police, out of the nine labourers who were trapped still in the coal mine, one is a national of Nepal, one is 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 sought assistance from the Army in the rescue operation. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The distracting views of some parties on Iran's nuclear program are being put forward to divert attention in another direction, Iranian Vice President and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Organization Mohammad Eslami said at the 7th Conference on Measurement and Safety of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation on January 7, Trend reports. According to him, several parties do not welcome Iran's involvement in the nuclear field. Therefore, they have always opposed Iran's nuclear program. Eslami noted that the discussion on Iran's nuclear program has been going on for many years. All concerned states entered into a discussion with Iran, which resulted in UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and a comprehensive joint action plan. The objective was to put an end to anti-Iran propaganda and lift sanctions. Iran would also limit its nuclear program for a certain period, and the issue of Iran's nuclear program would be resolved. However, the parties that did not endure the issue eventually abandoned the US comprehensive plan for joint action. The Iranian VP emphasized that the country is already making steady progress in the nuclear field. The country has done and tested a lot in the field of radiation. Iran has taken major steps in the field of health and food safety. 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. Hyderabad, Jan 7 : Tollywood actor Allu Arjun on Tuesday visited KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad to meet the eight-year-old boy who was injured in the stampede during the premier show of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' at Sandhya Theatre last month. Hyderabad, Jan 7 (IANS) Tollywood actor Allu Arjun on Tuesday visited KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad to meet the eight-year-old boy who was injured in the stampede during the premier show of aPushpa 2: The Rulea at Sandhya Theatre last month. Amid tight security by the police, the actor reached the hospital in the morning and spent about half an hour. He was accompanied by Telangana State Film Development Corporation Chairman Dil Raju. The actor enquired from doctors about the condition of SriTej, met his father and assured him of all support. Allu Arjun had planned to visit the hospital on January 5 after reporting at Chikkadpally Police Station as per the condition laid down by a city court while granting him regular bail. However, he had to drop his plans after Ramgopalpet Police Station issued a notice to him advising him to reconsider his visit. The police had advised Allu Arjun to maintain his confidentiality to prevent any gathering of public/media at the premises which could disturb the peaceful environs of the hospital. The actor was warned that in case of a lack of cooperation from his side, he would be held solely responsible for any negative consequences of his visit to the hospital. The police on January 6 issued another notice to him to keep his visit confidential so that public order could be maintained in and around the hospital. The police also offered to make necessary arrangements for his visit. A woman, Revathi was killed and her son Sri Tej was critically injured in the stampede at the theatre on December 4 during the premier show attended by Allu Arjun. The police had claimed that Allu Arjun visited the theatre without permission and conducted a aroadshowa which led to the tragedy. Allu Arjun was arrested on December 13 in the case. He was granted interim bail by the High Court the same day. Nampally Court last week granted the actor regular bail. The court directed him to cooperate with the investigation and report to the concerned police station every Sunday. The actor had come under criticism from various quarters for not consoling the family of the deceased or visiting the injured boy at the hospital. The actoras father and producer Allu Arvind visited the hospital twice. During his last visit on December 25, he presented a cheque of Rs 2 crore to the victimas family. While Allu Arjun has given Rs 1 crore, Mythri Movies, the producers of the movie have extended assistance of Rs 50 lakh. The film's director Sukumar has also given Rs 50 lakh to the family. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Businessman Raj Kundra, who made his acting debut with 'Undertrial' (UT69), has reportedly signed a three film deal with DB Digitainment and will be seen headlining Punjabi films. He said that he wanted to do something truly entertaining for his Punjabi community. The films, headlined by Raj Kundra, will have family genres, ranging from intense drama, action to light-hearted comedy. On reaching out to Raj Kundra about the films, he said: "Yes, something exciting is brewing i wanted to do something truly entertaining for my Punjabi community. I can't reveal much just yet, but I promise it's going to be worth the wait." The details of Raj Kundra's films are still under wraps. News is the first of the three projects will be announced on the auspicious occasion of Lohri on January 13. Last month, Raj and his actress wife Shilpa Shetty celebrated Christmas with Punjabi spirit He shared a fun moment of himself performing Bhangra in the chilly temperatures, showcasing his vibrant spirit and love for tradition. Raj took to his Instagram handle and posted a video featuring him, his wife Shilpa and their kids. In the clip, the family was seen enjoying the Christmas festive time with Santa Claus. Sharing this fun-filled video, the businessman wrote in the caption, "Born into a Punjabi family, Christmas has always been a beautiful blend of traditionslaughter, love, and togetherness at its core. This year was no different, from Bhangra in -13C to meeting Santa with the family. You can take us out from Punjab, but you'll never take the Punjabi out of us haha Merry Christmas ji #GratefulHeart #PunjabiSoul #FamilyFirst #ChristmasVibes." Raj and Shilpa have been married since 2009. The couple welcomed their son Viaan in 2012. The two then had a daughter named Samiksha through surrogacy in 2020. Hyderabad, Jan 7 : In a setback to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and former minister K. T. Rama Rao in the Formula-E race case, the Telangana High Court on Tuesday dismissed his quash petition. The High Court, which had reserved its orders on the quash petition on December 31, pronounced the same on Tuesday, paving the way for an investigation into the high-profile case by the Anti-Corruption Bureau. KTR, as the BRS leader is popularly known, had sought orders to quash the First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). During the hearing of the quash petition, the High Court had barred the ACB from arresting KTR. The ACB had summoned KTR for questioning on Monday (January 6). The former minister visited the ACB office but returned without appearing before the investigating officer after his lawyer was not allowed to be present during questioning. He submitted a letter to the ACB, requesting it to defer the questioning till the High Court pronounces its order. The ACB has issued a fresh notice, directing KTR to appear on January 9. The ACB on December 29 had booked a case against KTR, Special Chief Secretary Arvind Kumar and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) former chief engineer B.L.N. Reddy for alleged irregularities in organizing the Formula E-car race in 2023 when BRS was in power. During the arguments on the quash petition, Advocate General A. Sudershan Reddy had told the court that Rs 46 crore in British Pounds were paid to Formula-E Operations Limited (FEO) in violation of rules. The government counsel submitted to the court that HMDA required permission from the Finance Department for payment of more than Rs 10 crore but in this case, it made a total payment of Rs 54 crore without any approval. The court was told that Secretariat Business Rules were not followed and that the then minister KTR signed the note file. KTRas counsel Siddhartha Dave argued that the sections invoked by the ACB in the FIR are not valid. He submitted to the bench that it was not proper to name KTR as an accused in the case. He also mentioned that the Secretary, Municipal Administration signed the agreement for the Formula-E race. The BRS leaderas counsel contended that the ACB has not provided any evidence of corruption. He told the court that KTR was not the beneficiary. The ACB had registered the FIR under Sections 13(1)(A) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, along with Sections 409 and 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code. The FIR, registered on a complaint by Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Principal Secretary Dana Kishore alleges irregularities in payments exceeding Rs 54.88 crore made by the HMDA to Formula-E Operations Limited (FEO) and associated entities without adhering to established financial procedures. According to the FIR, the payments were made to FEO between September and October 2023, despite FEO terminating its agreement with the Telangana government during the same period. This amount also incurred a tax liability of Rs 8.06 crore, which was borne by HMDA. A tripartite agreement signed in October 2022 between the Telangana government, FEO, and event sponsor Ace Nxt Gen Pvt Ltd had limited the State governmentas financial responsibility. The FIR alleged that disputes between FEO and Ace Nxt Gen Pvt Ltd led to the government assuming financial liability without regulatory approvals, causing losses to the exchequer. Guwahati, Jan 7 : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is in the national capital on Tuesday to have a series of engagements with business leaders for the upcoming investor summit -- Advantage Assam in the state. In a post on X, Sarma said, "In the second leg of our #AdvantageAssam2 engagements, I will be in Delhi today to interact with Ambassadors, business leaders and representatives of Bilateral Chambers." Sarma was in Mumbai for the last three days and he met top industrialists regarding investment in the state. He mentioned that the government has been working towards making Assam a favourable destination for investors. He said, "Winded up a very productive tour to Mumbai with engagements with the titans of India Inc. The leaders of the business world are bullish on the Assam Growth story and are looking forward to being a part of #AdvantageAssam2". The CM met Noel Tata, chairman of the Tata group on Sunday and said, "It was an absolute pleasure to meet Shri Noel Tata, the Chairman of @tatatrusts. We talked about synergising our efforts to improve the ease of living of our people and augmenting the Trust's phenomenal intervention in Assam's healthcare and education sectors, particularly in cancer care. I have also invited him to attend #AdvantageAssam2." Moreover, Sarma also held discussions with the director of Adani group, Jeet Adani and chairman of Mahindra group Anand Gopal Mahindra in Mumbai. "It was such a delight to meet Shri @anandmahindra. His passion for an industrialized India and intellectual prowess is admirable. I have invited him to partner with the Assam Government in our quest for industrial growth," he said. "Today during my meeting with Shri Jeet Adani, Director of @AdaniOnline, the group expressed their keen interest to explore opportunities in the infrastructure, power and defence sectors in Assam," Sarma mentioned adding that the Adani group has many industry expansion plans in Assam. "I am happy to see our State feature prominently in the Group's expansion plan," he added. According to Chief Minister Sarma, the event Advantage Assam which is set for February 24 and 25, would highlight the traditional Jhumur dance of the tea tribe clans. Sarma said, "This summit is a platform to showcase Assam's rich traditions to a global audience in addition to attracting investors." A spectacular Jhumur dance performance with more than 7,500 dancers and artists will be part of the event. It will be an extraordinary show, the CM said. Kolkata, Jan 7 : All India Forward Bloc, the political outfit founded by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in 1939 after breaking away from Congress, has requested Trinamool Congress to take action against party leader Kunal Ghosh for making outrageous comments about Netaji. Earlier this week Ghosh said that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's success lies in her launch of a new party Trinamool Congress after breaking away from Congress which even Netaji could not achieve during his entire political career. The Forward General Secretary G. DeVaan has issued a statement claiming that such comments by Ghosh were not just outrageous to gain something by keeping the Chief Minister in good humour. In his statement, Devarajan while reminding the Chief Minister of the legendary contributions to the freedom movement, has also requested her to ensure that none of the Trinamool Congress insults history in such a manner. The Forward Bloc leadership has claimed that comparisons by Ghosh were not appropriate since both events have different historical perspectives. "Netaji had to move out of the country to organise the Indian National Army to ensure India's freedom from British rule. So he did not have much chance to participate in Parliamentary politics within the country," said a state leader of BJP in West Bengal. Ghosh, however, has his own logic. According to him, he admitted that the contribution of Netaji in his own areas was unparalleled. "But at the same, the manner in which Mamata Banerjee formed her own party and set a mark in both state and national politics is simply commendable," Ghosh said. He also criticized Congress, with which Mamata Banerjee was associated for a long time before forming her own party, for not recognizing her fighting spirit against the previous Left Front regime in West Bengal and claimed that it is proven again and again that people of West Bengal did not accept her expulsion from Congress. Seoul, Jan 7 : The South Korean government will continue to offer full support to the families of the 179 victims of the deadly Jeju Air crash, acting President Choi Sang-mok said Tuesday, as funeral proceedings were expected to conclude in the near future. The bodies of all victims have been handed over to their families as of Monday, according to Choi. The Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 flight, carrying 181 passengers and crew, crashed at Muan International Airport on December 29, leaving only two survivors, Yonhap news agency reported. "Even after the funeral procedures are completed, the government will carefully ensure that no difficulty faced by the bereaved families goes unnoticed, and we will provide meticulous support until all issues are resolved," Choi said during a disaster control meeting. He also emphasised that the government, in cooperation with local agencies, will maintain communication channels with the families to continuously identify and address their needs. For instance, psychological support teams have been established to help the emotional recovery of the bereaved families and those involved in the accident response, he noted. Emergency living expenses for the victims' families will start being distributed on Friday, Choi added. The Financial Services Commission will support bereaved families by extending their loan maturities, he said. Additionally, if they require new financing, special guarantees will be provided through the state-run Korea Credit Guarantee Fund. Earlier South Korea's Transport Ministry said that authorities have moved two engines from the Jeju Air jet involved in a deadly crash last weekend to a hangar for a full-scale investigation. The Jeju Aeroplane, with 181 people onboard returning from Bangkok, crashed while landing at Muan International Airport in the southwestern county of Muan on December 29, killing all but two, aboard. One of the engines was transported to the hangar Friday, while the other was moved the previous day, the Transport Ministry said. Patna, Jan 7 : Two criminals were gunned down and one police sub-inspector sustained injuries during an encounter in Patna's Hinduni locality on Tuesday. As per the officials, a gang of around eight to 10 criminals, assembled at Hinduni locality under the jurisdiction of Phulwarisharif police station to execute a big incident. Patna Police learnt about their movement and, accordingly, constituted a team to raid the place. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. According to the City Superintendent of Police (SP) Sharat S., the police acted on a tip-off about the gang's activities. "A dedicated team was constituted to apprehend the suspects. When the team arrived at the scene, the gang members indiscriminately fired at the police party. In retaliation, the police team also fired at them. Four criminals sustained gunshot injuries and were admitted to Patna Medical College and Hospital. Two of them succumbed to the injuries. Two others sustained gunshot injuries and are undergoing treatment," Sharat stated. The police team swiftly acted and managed to apprehend two injured who had also been hospitalised. The arrested individuals have been identified as residents of the Nalanda district. Around four other suspects managed to escape and are currently at large. During the operation, a sub-inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was admitted to Patna AIIMS for treatment. The injured sub-inspector was identified as Vivek Kumar who was posted at the Gaurichak police station. His condition is said to be critical at the moment and is under close observation of doctors in the Intensive Care Unit of Patna AIIMS. The district police are investigating the case to determine the nature of the illegal activities they were involved in and their possible involvement in other crimes. An FIR has been registered, and the investigation is ongoing. The police team recovered two pistols and some dead cartridges from the crime scene. Chennai, Jan 7 : The DMK has launched a poster campaign against Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi following his walkout from the state Legislative Assembly on the first day of the session. The party has also announced statewide protest campaigns against the Governor in all districts. The controversy began on January 6, when the Governor walked out of the Assembly in protest, citing "disrespect" to the Constitution and the National Anthem. As per the Assembly tradition, the state song 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu' is sung at the start of the session, and the national anthem is played at its conclusion. The Governor objected to the omission of the National Anthem at the start of the session. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin criticised the Governor's actions, describing them as "childish". He accused Ravi of repeatedly insulting the people of Tamil Nadu, the elected government, and the Legislative Assembly, adding that his behaviour was unbecoming of the office he holds. The DMK's Chennai West wing launched a poster campaign across the city targeting both the Governor and Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami. The posters feature the faces of Ravi and Palaniswami with the hashtag "#GetOutRavi". One slogan loosely translates to: "The Governor who violates, and the AIADMK-BJP secret alliance that will save him." The controversy extended further when AIADMK chief Palaniswami led his party MLAs into the Assembly wearing badges that read "Yaar Antha Sir?" (Who is that Sir?), referencing the recent Anna University sexual assault case. The AIADMK MLAs were later evicted from the House. Senior DMK leader and Tamil Nadu Water Resources Minister S. Duraimurugan criticized the Governor's walkout, calling it a violation of constitutional responsibilities. Under Article 176 of the Constitution, the Governor is mandated to deliver the customary address at the beginning of the Assembly session. Duraimurugan condemned Ravi's actions, noting that the Speaker of the House, M. Appavu, had previously clarified the protocol. Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu is sung before the Governor's address, and the National Anthem is played at the session's conclusion. He accused Ravi of showing repeated disregard for these established traditions and questioned his intentions. Duraimurugan further emphasised that the people of Tamil Nadu, the state government, and the Legislative Assembly have always shown unwavering respect for the National Anthem, the Constitution, and the ideals of patriotism and national integration. The DMK's campaign and protests mark the latest chapter in the strained relationship between the ruling party and the Governor. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), expressing confidence that the people of Delhi are ready to end the "ten years of disaster" under AAP's governance and hand over the reins to the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. The current Delhi Assembly's term ends on February 23 and the Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to announce the election schedule for the 70-member Assembly on Tuesday. Reacting to the announcement, BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat told IANS, "Today will be the day for Delhi when the people of Delhi will cast their vote to elect the next government. After enduring ten years of lies, corruption, and mismanagement by AAP, the people of Delhi will now place their trust in the BJP for honest governance and effective implementation of public welfare schemes." She emphasised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for development and welfare, successfully implemented in other states, would guide Delhi towards progress if the BJP is voted to power. The BJP's candidate for the New Delhi Assembly seat, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, extended his congratulations to the ECI and administration for ensuring the smooth conduct of elections. "I appeal to the people of Delhi to participate in this festival of democracy. Every vote is precious and has the power to bring good governance, end pollution, clean the Yamuna, and expose corruption in the liquor policy," he stated. In Kalkaji, BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri echoed similar sentiments, urging voters to end the AAP's decade-long misrule. "The time has come to get rid of the disaster in Delhi. Around 1.5 crore voters will exercise their franchise, and I am confident they will choose BJP to lead the city toward a brighter future," he said while blasting the AAP for issues like dirty drinking water, the problem of sewage water surfacing in monsoons and deteriorating law and order. On Monday, the ECI released a revised voter list for Delhi, revealing significant growth in the electorate. The number of voters increased from 1,53,57,529 in October 2024 to 1,55,24,858 in December 2024, adding 1,67,329 new voters. The Commission also warned against submitting false documents to obtain voter IDs. The ruling AAP has fielded candidates for all 70 Assembly seats, with party chief and former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal contesting from the New Delhi seat. Chief Minister Atishi will contest from Kalkaji. The BJP has released its first list of 29 candidates. Parvesh Verma, son of former Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma, is contesting from New Delhi, challenging former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Ramesh Bidhuri is contesting against Chief Minister Atishi in Kalkaji. The Congress has announced candidates for 48 seats, with Sandeep Dikshit, son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, contesting from the New Delhi seat. Dikshit, a two-time MP, will challenge Kejriwal, who previously defeated Sheila Dikshit in 2013 and 2015. Alka Lamba has been announced as the Congress candidate from Kalkaji. Seoul, Jan 7 : North Korea said on Tuesday that it has successfully test-fired a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) tipped with a hypersonic warhead, claiming that the weapons system will reliably deter any rivals in the Pacific region. But the South Korean military said the North's claimed success of a hypersonic missile launch could be "deception," raising questions about its flight distance and other specifications. North Korea said the missile flew some 1,500 kilometres at 12 times the speed of sound the previous day during the testing overseen by leader Kim Jong-un via a monitoring system, Yonhap news agency reported quoting the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said on Monday that the North's suspected hypersonic missile, fired from the Pyongyang area, flew about 1,100 km before falling into the East Sea. The North Korean leader said the development of such a missile was aimed at bolstering the country's nuclear war deterrent by "making the weapon system to which no one can respond the linchpin of strategic deterrence." "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim was quoted as saying by the KCNA. "The system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," he added. The North's latest missile launch, the first provocation in about two months, came about two weeks before US President-elect Donald Trump assumes office on January 20. It also came amid political turmoil in South Korea sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched martial law imposition last month and his subsequent impeachment by the National Assembly. "North Korea probably intended to flex its muscle against the United States. As it said the latest launch was a test-firing, the weapons system does not appear to be completed, pointing to demand (to further develop) in terms of military technology," an official at South Korea's unification ministry told reporters. A hypersonic missile is usually hard to intercept with existing missile defence shields. It travels at a speed of at least Mach 5 -- five times the speed of sound -- and is designed to be manoeuvrable on unpredictable flight paths and fly at low altitudes. The KCNA said the hypersonic glide vehicle atop the new IRBM reached its first peak at a height of 99.8 km and the second at 42.5 km while making a 1,500-km-long flight as scheduled before hitting a designated target point at sea. But the South Korean military dismissed the North's claim as a "deception," saying there was no second peak. "The flight range analysed by South Korea, the US and Japan was around 1,100 km and (the missile) did not reach a second peak," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-un told a regular press briefing, noting the North has a track record of "exaggerating." North Korea also claimed a new compound of carbon fibre was used in manufacturing the engine body of the hypersonic missile, and an unspecified "comprehensive and effective" method was introduced for the flight and guidance control system. Experts said the North appeared to fire the upgraded version this week of a hypersonic missile that it launched in April last year. Pyongyang then claimed the IRBM loaded with a hypersonic glide vehicle flew 1,000 km. The South's JCS then said the missile flew 600 km, calling the North's claims partially "exaggerated," although it said Pyongyang appears to have made some technological progress in its hypersonic weapons program. "As the North has claimed it has acquired technology that is 'by no means easy,' there could be a technical improvement of its own. But it is also hard to exclude the possibility of technical cooperation from Russia," Hong Min, a senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said. North Korea and Russia have been deepening military cooperation under a mutual defence treaty signed in June, with the North accused of sending more than 11,000 troops to Russia to support its war against Ukraine. Hypersonic missiles, nuclear-powered submarines, spy satellites, and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles are among the sophisticated weapons Kim vowed to develop during a key party congress in 2021. At a year-end party meeting, the North's leader said his country would carry out the "toughest" counteraction strategy toward the US and claimed that military cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan has expanded into a "military bloc for aggression." BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. Irans nuclear program talks could lead to the resolution of many issues that were once seen as impossible to address, Iranian expert Hassan Beheshtipour told reporters, Trend reports. Speaking to Iranian media, Hassan Beheshtipour explained that there are agreed-upon terms within the framework of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which could provide positive points for future discussions. While both Iran and the US have criticisms of the agreement, there are several common areas where progress can be made to solve the issues at hand. Beheshtipour highlighted that one of the most crucial areas for both sides is the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. Another key point is that both Iran and other parties have already acknowledged that diplomacy and dialogue, rather than conflict, are the best ways to resolve differences. He noted that the JCPOA stands as an example of successful diplomacy. Despite some skepticism about the full implementation of the agreement, the funds Iran has received since its enactment have demonstrated the positive aspects of the deal. Recently, Irans foreign minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, stated that Iran is ready to begin nuclear negotiations without delay. To note, in January 2016, the JCPOA was launched between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, UK, France, and Germany) in connection with Iran's nuclear program. However, the U.S. withdrew from the agreement in May 2018 and imposed new sanctions on Iran that November. In 2020, Iran declared that it would not be subject to any limitations under the nuclear deal. At the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to implement a strategic plan in the nuclear field with the aim of lifting sanctions. According to the decision of the Iranian parliament, Iran has suspended the implementation of additional steps and an additional protocol provided for in the nuclear agreement. At the same time, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) control mechanism decreased by 20-30 percent. Chennai, Jan 7 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) is likely to announce the date for the Erode East Assembly bypoll today (January 7). It is anticipated that the ECI may announce the bypoll date alongside the Delhi Assembly election schedule, also expected to be declared today. The Erode East assembly constituency is heading for its second by-election in two years. The seat fell vacant following the death of Congress veteran E.V.K.S. Elangovan on December 14, 2024. Elangovan, a grandnephew of social reformer Periyar EV Ramasamy, was elected to the seat in a bypoll held in early 2023. He had contested after the untimely demise of his son, Thirumagan Everaa, who passed away at the age of 46 due to a heart attack in January 2023. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin visited Erode district on December 19 and 20, 2024, to strengthen the partyas presence ahead of the bypoll and the 2026 Assembly elections. During his visit, Stalin chaired a series of meetings with senior DMK functionaries and reviewed the partyas performance in Erode during the 2021 assembly elections. According to DMK insiders, Stalin sought opinions on the choice of candidates for the Erode East bypoll. Tamil Nadu Minister and Erode South district secretary S. Muthusamy reportedly informed the Chief Minister that after EVKS Elangovan and his family, no prominent Congress leader from Erode remains to contest the seat. Muthusamy further conveyed that party cadres are eager for the DMK to contest the seat instead of fielding a Congress candidate. Stalin instructed party workers to address the weaknesses in constituencies across the district, particularly those lost to the AIADMK or won by narrow margins. Specific constituencies discussed during the review included Perundurai, which DMK failed to win in 2021; Anthiyur, where the DMK secured victory with a slim margin of 1,275 votes; Bhavanisagar, where the DMK ally CPI faced defeat. The DMK has set an ambitious target of winning 200 out of the 234 seats in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. To achieve this, Stalin directed functionaries to prioritize solving local issues and strengthening the partyas base in vulnerable constituencies. A special committee is expected to be formed to strategize and ensure victory in key constituencies in the Erode district. Additionally, the DMK has appointed full-time coordinators for every assembly constituency. Senior leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister and Youth Wing leader Udhayanidhi Stalin and organizing Secretary R.S. Bharathi, are monitoring constituency-level activities. The DMK-led alliance currently holds a combined 159 seats in the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly with DMK having 133 seats, Congress 18 seats, VCK 4 seats, CPI 2 seats, and CPI(M) 2 seats. The alliance secured an impressive vote share of 45.38 per cent in the previous state assembly elections. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Two cases of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were detected in Maharashtra's Nagpur on Tuesday, said officials here, adding that both are children and their condition was stable. The two girls, aged 13 and 7, had shown the symptoms. According to the state public health department sources, after two days of continuous fever, these girls undertook tests in a private lab and tested positive. They were treated at home and their condition was stable. Taking serious note, the state government has established a Task Force headed by the JJ Hospital Dean Dr Pallavi Saple to craft standard operating procedure (SOP) and decide on future course of action. "Both these girls had cough and fever, their samples have been sent to NIV as they had slightly different symptoms. Both the children did not need to be admitted to the hospital and both the patients have recovered," said sources. "Parents don't need to worry, this virus is not like Corona. It is mild," said Superintendent of Government Medical and Hospital in Nagpur Dr Avinash Gawande. However, he suggested that children should wear masks. Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar called an urgent meeting of the department regarding the HMPV virus. It is reported that Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav will also be present in this meeting. The minister has urged the people not to panic. The medical education commissioner, Rajiv Nivatkar, held a virtual meeting with the Deans of government medical colleges to review their preparedness to tackle HMPV patients and briefed them about the measures to be taken. The BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has gone into an alert mode as special wards have been set up to treat HMPV patients. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said, "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." The state health department has issued an advisory asking the district administration to keep a close vigil while stepping up surveillance of patients with cold 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. With the increased risk of HMPV, the Health Department has analyzed the respiratory infection statistics in the state. 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." Seoul, Jan 7 : South Korea's Police on Tuesday ordered the head of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) to appear for questioning later this week in its third summons over allegations he blocked investigators' attempt to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Park Chong-jun, chief of the PSS, was booked on charges of obstructing official duties after presidential security officials blocked the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) from executing a warrant to detain Yoon last Friday. Park was ordered to appear for questioning on Friday after he ignored two previous summonses for questioning on Saturday and Tuesday, reports Yonhap news agency. The PSS earlier said in a notice to the press that Park has yet to appoint a lawyer. "It is difficult for Park to appear today as he has not yet appointed legal representation," it said. "He will coordinate the date for questioning after appointing a lawyer today or tomorrow." The third summons is likely to be the final one before police seek a warrant to detain Park. Yoon, who faces charges of insurrection and abuse of power over his short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3, became the first sitting president to face arrest after he ignored three summonses for questioning. Lee Kwang-woo, head of the PSS bodyguard division, was also scheduled for questioning Tuesday on charges of obstructing Yoon's detention. After he failed to show up, police said they sent a second summons ordering him to appear on Friday. 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. The CIO and the police are jointly reviewing whether to detain PSS staff in the event they try to block a second attempt to arrest Yoon, according to police. Patna, Jan 7 : Political strategist Prashant Kishor was hospitalized on Tuesday morning after his health deteriorated during a hunger strike he began on January 2 in support of Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) candidates. Kishor, who had been released from Beur Jail on Monday evening, required immediate medical attention. An ambulance from Patna's Medanta Hospital arrived at his Sheikhpura residence, and he was later admitted to the hospital. A doctor accompanying the ambulance stated that Kishor was suffering from dehydration due to prolonged fasting. "He has not consumed food for several days, leading to dehydration, gastritis, and abdominal pain in both the lower and upper regions," the doctor said. A team of doctors at Medanta Hospital is conducting a thorough health assessment to determine his condition. Kishor had been on a hunger strike at Patna's Gandhi Maidan, demanding the cancellation of the 70th BPSC examination, which he alleged was marred by irregularities. He was arrested by the police early Monday morning. Following his arrest, Kishor was presented before the Patna Civil Court, which granted him conditional bail on a bond of Rs 25,000. However, Kishor refused to comply with the bail conditions and opted for judicial custody. The bail conditions required him to refrain from engaging in similar protests in the future, which he declined, citing his commitment to satyagraha principles. "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. Bihar is a place where Mahatma Gandhi did the Satyagraha, and if doing the same here is a crime, then I am ready to do such a crime," Kishor declared. After refusing conditional bail, Kishor was placed under 14 days of judicial custody by the Patna Police. However, the court later granted him unconditional bail, leading to his release from Beur Central Jail on Monday night. Following his release, Kishor reiterated that the movement, which began in the historic Gandhi Maidan, would also find its resolution there. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice on a plea filed by former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi challenging the election of Samajwadi Party's Rambhual Nishad as MP from Uttar Pradesh's Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency. In her petition, Maneka Gandhi contended that the SP leader did not disclose four criminal cases pending against him in his certificate. Maneka Gandhi lost to Rambhual Nishad by 43,174 votes in Sultanpur. Nishad secured 4,44,330 votes, while Gandhi got 4,01,156 votes. In August 2024, the Allahabad High Court had dismissed Maneka Gandhi's election petition being time-barred by Section 81, read with Section 86, of the Representation of the People (RP) Act, 1951. As per Section 81 of the RP Act, an election petition can be filed within 45 days from, but not earlier than the date of election of the returned candidate. Justice Rajan Roy of the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court noted that the candidate was elected on June 4 but Maneka Gandhi filed an election petition on July 27, 2024. In its judgment delivered on August 14, the single-judge Bench of Justice Roy said: "The election petition has apparently been filed beyond the period of 45 days prescribed in Section 81 of the Act 1951. Section 86 of the Act 1951 provides that the High Court shall dismiss an election petition which does not comply with the provision of Section 81 or Section 82 or Section 117 of the Act 1951." There is no provision under the RP Act which permits condonation of such delay, the High Court said, adding that "under the repealed Section 85, there was a provision for condonation of delay in filing election petition but there is no such provision in the RP Act existing as of now." Apart from questioning the dismissal of her election petition, Maneka Gandhi has also challenged the legal validity of the 45-day limitation period by way of filing a distinct writ petition before the Supreme Court. In relation to the latter petition, a Bench headed by Justice Surya Kant said that the plea essentially appealed the judicial forum to legislate, adding that to alter the 45-day limitation period by method of judicial interpretation may open floodgates of litigation. Sensing the disinclination of the apex court to entertain the petition challenging the validity of Section 81 of the RP Act, senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for Maneka Gandhi, chose to withdraw the writ petition. The apex court granted liberty to raise and agitate the grounds of the writ petition in the Special Leave Petition filed against the dismissal of the election petition. New Delhi, Jan 7 : After being rejected by the voters in Delhi in the previous two Assembly elections, the Congress party is desperately trying to register its presence in the upcoming polls. It has targeted the women electorate for whom it has announced the 'Pyari Didi Yojana' promising Rs 2,500 financial assistance to those eligible. New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) After being rejected by the voters in Delhi in the previous two Assembly elections, the Congress party is desperately trying to register its presence in the upcoming polls. It has targeted the women electorate for whom it has announced the aPyari Didi Yojana' promising Rs 2,500 financial assistance to those eligible. The Congress has promised that if voted to power in Delhi, it would approve the scheme in the very first cabinet meeting. The Congress, which ruled the roost in Delhi till Sheila Dikshit was alive, is trying to make a comeback this time as an independent force after its INDIA bloc ally AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal announced to go solo in the upcoming Assembly polls. Delhi Assembly polls, which were earlier seen as a contest between AAP and the BJP, transformed into a three-cornered contest with the Congress making its political presence felt in the national capital with a combative strategy. Notably, the Congress extended support to AAP to form government in 2013 with AAP gaining prominence in Delhi's political landscape. The Congress party has been attacking the AAP and the BJP over various issues, including alleged corruption and governance failure. The Congress alleged that the AAP government in Delhi failed to fulfil promises made to the people. "AAP has lost credibility. In Punjab, the AAP promised Rs 1,000 per month for women 34 months ago, and today the women are at Kejriwal's door demanding justice," the Delhi Congress said. The Congress also slammed the AAP convenor over the Sheesh Mahal row after the findings of a recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report revealed excessive spending on the renovation of the Delhi Chief Ministeras residence under Kejriwal. Delhi Congress President Devender Yadav's 'Nyay Yatra' has also given hope to party supporters who are earnestly praying for the party's comeback. He also said that Congress does not believe in making fake promises and commits only what it can fulfil. Even as Congress MP Ajay Maken has promised to expose the AAP convenor, he did not make any statement on the front, drawing criticism from the BJP which termed it a "deal" between the Congress and the AAP. The Election Commission of India is set to announce the poll schedule for Delhi Assembly polls on Tuesday. Delhi has 1,55,24,858 voters and the term of the current Delhi Assembly ends on February 23. Sydney, Jan 7 : A man has been charged by police after a firearm was allegedly found in his luggage at Sydney Airport, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said on Tuesday. Officers were called to inspect the luggage of the 39-year-old man after a security worker monitoring an X-ray machine at the airport identified suspicious items on December 28, Xinhua news agency reported. "AFP officers inspected the luggage and found parts of a disassembled shotgun and ammunition," a police statement said. The man was stopped from boarding a flight to Lebanon and was questioned about the firearm, which the AFP said was not registered to him. He was charged with one count of trafficking prohibited firearms or firearm parts out of Australia. If found guilty, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment. AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Dom Stephenson said that the man allegedly initially claimed the weapon was a drenching gun used to administer liquid medications to livestock. "However, the AFP subsequently determined the weapon was a shotgun broken down into two parts. This is a serious weapon with the potential to cause real harm," he said. He said that the vigilance and quick action of security staff and AFP officers had ensured the safety of the public traveling. In a separate incident in South Australia (SA), a man who allegedly threatened police with a knife has died after being shot by officers. SA Police said that the 40-year-old man was shot at a home during an incident in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The man was treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics before being transported to the hospital where he died. SA Police said that the shooting occurred after police officers and ambulance crews were deployed to the home in Adelaide's southern suburbs shortly after midnight in response to reports of a man harming himself with a knife. Officers entered the home to speak to the 40-year-old when he allegedly threatened them with a knife. "Police deployed a taser which was unsuccessful, the man continued to threaten patrols with the knife," SA Police said in a statement. "Police then discharged their firearms, incapacitating the man." There were no injuries to the police. SA Police's Internal Investigation Service as well as detectives from the major crimes and forensic response units have launched an investigation into the incident. The street where the incident occurred has been closed and the public asked to avoid the area. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Indusfood 2025, the country's farm-to-fork trade exhibition, will kick off on Wednesday in Greater Noida on the outskirts of the national capital, with the participation of over 2,300 exhibitors from over 30 countries, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries said on Tuesday. The integrated trade fair will host over 7,500 international buyers and 15,000 Indian trade visitors, who are expected to be present during the show in the sprawling exhibition space of over 120,000 sq.m. Apart from the eighth edition of the Indusfood F&B trade fair at India Expo Mart, Greater Noida from January 8-10, the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) is also organising the fourth edition of Indusfood Manufacturing (covering food processing technology, packaging technology, ingredients and hospitality technology) and the inaugural edition of Indusfood Agritech (showcasing agricultural technology, fisheries technology, dairy & poultry farming technology). The latter two events are scheduled for January 9-11, at Yashobhoomi Dwarka, New Delhi. The event format of Indusfood 2025, with these three concurrent trade fairs, has been designed to foster cross-domain synergies across the farm-to-fork value chain. It offers networking opportunities, facilitates meaningful business expansion, and provides valuable market insights through targeted knowledge-sharing sessions. This integrated approach ensures that participants can discover innovative solutions, forge strategic partnerships, and stay ahead in the evolving global F&B landscape, the official statement said. The 2025 edition will witness participation from 35 international chefs and 100 Indian delegates, alongside professionals from Delhi NCR. With a diverse international audience, including hosted buyers from over 100 countries, the event provides Indian food companies with an unparalleled opportunity to reach native populations in these markets, moving beyond just the Indian diaspora. Indusfood 2025 will also host the prestigious Asia Presidentas Forum for the very first time in India, in partnership with the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA). This landmark event will bring together over 30 presidents of national chef associations from across Asia. Two mega summits focusing on the food manufacturing and agritech sectors are to be held on the sidelines of the show. Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Chirag Paswan will inaugurate the 8th Edition of the Indusfood 2025, Asia's premier annual F&B trade exhibition organised by TPCI with the support of the Centre's Department of Commerce. Mohit Singla, Chairman TPCI said, "Indusfood is all about bridging the gaps between farmers, technology providers, and global markets, it not only enhances trade opportunities but also directly improves farmer incomes by creating access to better markets and value-addition opportunities." New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday unveiled its campaign song, 'Phir Layenge Kejriwal' (We Will Bring Kejriwal Again), ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. The song highlights the party's key electoral promises, including its two recently launched welfare schemes -- Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, which provides Rs 2,100 per month to women in Delhi, and Sanjeevani Yojana, which ensures free treatment for senior citizens across all hospitals. The launch event witnessed the presence of prominent AAP leaders, including party national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and other senior members. Addressing the gathering, Kejriwal described elections as a festival for Delhi's people. "People eagerly wait for AAP's campaign songs. We launched one in 2015, then another in 2020, and now this one in 2025. I know you were all waiting for it. Play this song everywhere -- at birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations -- and promote it widely," he said. Taking an indirect dig at the BJP, he added, "Even the leaders of the abusive party should listen to it and dance to its tunes." Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai expressed the party's readiness for the election campaign. Speaking to IANS, he said, "We have fielded 70 candidates. Today, the campaign song has been launched, and it will drive our election efforts." Highlighting the party's achievements, Rai noted, "The people know who kept their promises and delivered. We promised electricity, water, better schools, women's clinics, improved travel facilities for women, and pilgrimage tours -- and we fulfilled them all. That's why 'Phir Layenge Kejriwal' resonates with the people of Delhi." Jaipur, Jan 7 : As the 813th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti Garib Nawaz is underway in Ajmer, a group of pilgrims from Pakistan came to Ajmer on Tuesday morning to present a 'chadar' on behalf of the Pakistani government. The pilgrims have also brought special offerings, including famous Pakistani sweets and bouquets of flowers, as a mark of reverence. On Monday, 89 pilgrims entered India through the Wagah Border (Amritsar, Punjab) and travelled to Ajmer via a special train, arriving early on Tuesday at 2:56 am. Accompanying them are two officials from the Pakistan Embassy. Upon their arrival at the Ajmer railway station, many pilgrims raised their hands in prayer, expressing gratitude for reaching the sacred city. Some sang devotional songs such as "Mere Khwaja Piya, Dar Par Bulwa Liya." Nearly all members of the group carried a chadar to offer at the shrine of Garib Nawaz. Syed Abdul Wahab Qadri, one of the pilgrims, expressed his sentiments, saying, "We have come to the land of Khwaja Saheb. May your country prosper. We will pray at the shrine for unity between India and Pakistan." Another pilgrim remarked, "Masha Allah, relations between the two countries are very good. We will pray for even better ties." Ajmer GRP CO Ram Avatar confirmed the group's arrival, stating, "There are 91 members in the group, including two officers. They were received at the station amid tight security and escorted to Central Girls School in Ajmer, where arrangements for their stay have been made." Given the heightened security concerns, the administration, police, GRP, and other security agencies were on high alert. Prior to the train's arrival, security checks were conducted at the Ajmer railway station by CID and GRP teams. Armed soldiers, commandos, and police personnel were stationed across the area to ensure safety. The pilgrims were then transported to their accommodation under tight security via roadways buses. Every year, a lottery system organised by the Pakistan government determines the pilgrims allowed to participate in the Ajmer Urs. The list of selected pilgrims is sent to the Indian government, which decides the final number of participants permitted entry. Traditionally, the pilgrims stay in Ajmeras Chudi Bazar, where the district administration manages their arrangements. A specific date is coordinated with the Pakistani group for the ceremonial presentation of the chadar. On this occasion, the pilgrims form a colourful procession, singing and dancing as they present the chadar at the shrine, continuing a long-standing tradition of devotion and unity. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Microsoft on Tuesday said it has empowered 2.4 million Indians, including civil servants, college students and people with disabilities, with artificial intelligence (AI) skills. Last year, Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella launched an India-specific initiative to equip two million individuals with AI skills by 2025. "Our aim is to not only enhance employability but also bridge the digital divide and create a more inclusive future for every Indian," Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South India, said in a statement. Those involved in the programme said as the use of AI tools spreads across the workforce, those who don't learn how to use them risk falling behind. "Once upon a time, humans discovered fire and were afraid of it. But then we learned to channelise it and put it to good use. Similarly, AI needs to be used wisely for the benefit of humanity, rather than letting us be devoured by it," said Neha Jain, Special Secretary, IT and Electronics, UP government. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Nadella, saying he was glad to know about the tech giant's ambitious expansion and investment plans in the country. Nadella thanked the Prime Minister for his leadership, saying the tech company is 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". Microsoft's AI tools, such as Copilot, TechSaksham and Seeing AI, have profoundly transformed people's lives through AI skilling initiatives in the country. For example, Raghavendra Pratap Singh, 33 who is a review officer in the Uttar Pradesh government and analyses new policies then helps disseminate them to the local officers responsible for carrying them out, has found these AI tools handy. A few months ago, Singh attended a one-day digital skills course run by Microsoft together with the state IT agency. There, he learned tools like Microsoft Copilot and Copilot for Word, PowerPoint and Excel as well as OpenAI's ChatGPT. Since then, he has started using AI tools to summarise documents and draft letters. "A letter that might have taken one hour to draft now takes 40 to 45 minutes," he said. "AI makes it a better letter," he said. In the past, he might sometimes miss a minor point. "Now AI is getting the exact pointers," he added. He also uses AI to translate court orders in English to Hindi so he can understand them better and communicate them to other officers. The digital skills course facilitated by Microsoft and the Uttar Pradesh Development Systems Corporation (UPDESCO), and run by a social enterprise called AISECT, covers AI, digital productivity and cybersecurity in a single day. Similarly, Jui Shrikant Bidaye, 21, from Pune dreamt of becoming a professional kabbadi player. After graduating high school in rural Devgad in Maharashtra, she headed more than 321 kms away to study for bachelors' in Information Technology at NBN Sinhgad School of Engineering, part of the University of Pune. The university's training and placement officer suggested she participate in 'TechSaksham', an initiative by Microsoft and SAP that introduces students to AI tools. She is spending the six-month internship working on creating a secure file storage application, using AI tools to help, and hopes the internship will translate into a permanent job offer when she graduates college in June this year. Prayagraj, Jan 7 : The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the impeachment motion moved against its judge, Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, in the Rajya Sabha over his alleged controversial remarks at a Vishwa Hindu Parishad event on December 8. Justice Yadav had reportedly said that the "country would function as per the wishes of the 'bahusankhyak' (majority) living in Hindustan" and used "unpardonable and unconscionable slurs" against a particular community. Thereafter, members of several opposition parties moved a notice in the Rajya Sabha for the impeachment of Justice Yadav, a sitting judge of the Allahabad HC. Questioning the locus of the PIL litigant, a bench of Justices Attau Rahman Masoodi and Subhash Vidyarthi held that the plea was not maintainable as it did not raise a cause relating to a vulnerable section of the society. The plea challenged the impeachment motion moved by Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal and 54 other members praying the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha to admit the motion and forward it to the President in accordance with the Judges (Enquiry) Act, 1968. It also sought an inquiry committee to investigate the charges of hate speech, communal disharmony and violation of judicial ethics and further to initiate appropriate proceedings against Justice Yadav. "Whatever Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav has said in this meeting of VHP (legal cell) was in the capacity of a Hindu who has gone to participate in a meeting of an organisation to which he belongs. Whatever he said in this meeting was in the capacity of the follower of the Santan Hindu Dharma, not as a judge sitting on the chair in the courtroom," the PIL argued. It called upon the Allahabad HC to decide as to whether a person has no right to speech and expression because he has become a judge of a High Court or the Supreme Court. "The right to speech and expression which is a fundamental right guaranteed by Article 19 of the Constitution, is available to the judges also and so some speech made by the judge outside the courtroom can not be the ground to remove him from office," the petition said. Two days after Justice Yadav delivered the controversial speech, the Supreme Court said that it had taken note of his remarks and called for details from the Allahabad High Court. "I have no hesitation in stating that this is Hindustan, and this country will function according to the wishes of the majority living here. This is the law. It is not about speaking as a High Court Judge; rather, the law operates in accordance with the bahusankyak (majority). Consider this in the context of a family or society - only what ensures the welfare and happiness of the majority will be accepted," Justice Yadav had reportedly said while addressing the provincial convention of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's law Cell (Kashi Province). "Lekin yeh jo kathmullah hai jo...yeh sahi shabd nahi hai...lekin kehne mein parhez nahi hai kyunki woh desh ke liye bura hai...desh ke liye ghatak hai, khilaaf hai, janata ko bhadhkane wale log hai...desh aage na badhe is prakar ke log hai...unse saavdhaan rehne ki zaroorat hai (But these kathmullah... this may not be the right word... but I won't hesitate to say it because they are harmful to the country...they are detrimental, against the nation, and people who incite the public. They are the kind of people who do not want the country to progress, and we need to be cautious of them," he had said. Chennai, Jan 7 : Oscar award winning sound designer Resul Pookutty has been nominated along with fellow sound designer Vijay Kumar for the prestigious 72nd Golden Reel Awards for their compelling work in one of Malayalam cinema's epic films, 'Aadujeevitham' ('The Goat Life'). Chennai, Jan 7 (IANS) Oscar award winning sound designer Resul Pookutty has been nominated along with fellow sound designer Vijay Kumar for the prestigious 72nd Golden Reel Awards for their compelling work in one of Malayalam cinema's epic films, aAadujeevithama ('The Goat Life'). Resul Pookutty took to his X timeline to share the news. He wrote, " It gives me immense pleasure to let you all know that myself and @vijaycanaries is nominated at the 72nd #goldenreelawards at #MPSE of America for our work in the film #TheGoatLife. Thank you for letting us fly @DirectorBlessy @arrahman @PrithviOfficial" The Golden Reel Awards are presented by the internationally renowned entity, the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE). The prestigious award is considered one of the most prized accolades in the world of sound editing. 'Aadujeevitham' or 'The Goat Life' will be competing with a number of international films including 'Emilia Perez', 'The Girl with the Needle' and 'Kneecap' in the Outstanding Achievement in Sound Editing - Feature International category. 'Aadujeevitham', featuring actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, was directed by well known Malayalam director Blessy and is an adaptation of a novel by Benyamin by the same name. The book,which is based on a real life incident, tells the story of Najeeb, a migrant worker from Kerala who went to Saudi Arabia for employment and eventually ended up being a shepherd in the desert after a series of unfortunate developments. Helpless and forced into hard labour, Najeeb finally escaped his desert prison and returned to India. The film, which had music by A R Rahman, had cinematography by K U Mohanan and editing by Sreekar Prasad. Aadujeevitham, which came in for critical acclaim when it released last year, swept nine film awards at the 54th Kerala State Film Awards. The film won awards in a number of categories including Best Director (Blessy), Best Actor (Prithviraj) and Best Sound Mixing (Resul Pookutty and Sarath Mohan). New Delhi, Jan 7 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will hold bilateral talks with his Maldivian counterpart Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon, who will be on a three-day state visit to India, beginning on Wednesday. During the talks on Wednesday, the two leaders will review various facets of bilateral defence cooperation including training, regular exercises, defence projects, workshops and seminars to enhance the capability of the Maldives National Defence Forces as well as the supply of defence equipment and stores, according to a statement by the Ministry of Defence. "The Maldives occupies a special place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, which aims to bring stability and prosperity to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Also, both nations are key players in maintaining the safety and security of IOR, thus contributing to India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)," it said. During his stay, he will also be visiting Goa and Mumbai. Last week, Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdullah Khaleel who was on a three-day visit to India, said: "Our partnership dates back to centuries. Our partnership is built on mutual understanding, respect and a shared commitment. Rooted in decades of trust and friendship, it will continue to thrive... As a beneficiary of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, the government of Maldives deeply values the significant importance India placed in its relationship with the Maldives. We have many examples where the Government of India has consistently stood by the Maldives as an immediate responder in times of need." "We always appreciate India for timely assistance, particularly through grant and concessional loans. On the development front, assistance from India has been transformative. The Greater Male Connectivity Project is a shining example that is set to transform the economic landscape of the Maldives," Khaleel added. New Delhi, Jan 7 : In the last two Assembly elections in Delhi in 2020 and 2015, voters overwhelmingly backed the AAP, giving it 53.6 per cent and 54.3 per cent vote share respectively, a comforting fact for the ruling party which is hoping to clock a decent number of seats even in the upcoming polls on February 5, despite the pressure mounted by the BJP and the Congress. The belief in the AAP ranks is that even in the worst scenario, the drop in their vote share can never be so drastic that the party will be vanquished. They hope to continue being a force in Delhi politics. As pollsters have indicated repeatedly, the BJP's tally in Delhi Assembly elections, partially, depends on the Congress' performance and its ability to cut into the AAP's vote-bank that includes Muslims, slum dwellers, Purvanchalis and other residents of unauthorised colonies who vouch for former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's welfare schemes. In 2020, the total turnout was 62.82 per cent and the AAP won 62 seats (vote share 53.6 per cent). The AAP won 67 seats in 2015. The BJP won 8 seats in 2020 and 3 in 2015. The saffron party's vote share in 2020 was 38.5 per cent. The Congress got a 4.26 per cent vote share in 2020. In 2015, the total voter turnout was 67.47 per cent with the AAP's vote share at 54.3 per cent, rising by 24.8 per cent from the previous outing in 2013, and its seats increased from 28 to 67, a gain of 39. In the same election, the BJP's vote share dipped by 0.8 per cent to 32.3 per cent and its seats reduced to 3 from 32 in 2013. The Congress vote share was 9.7 per cent, down 14.9 per cent, and it failed to open its tally a loss of eight seats. This election was a defining outing for the Congress which lost all its voters to the new outfit. The Congress' loss of a vote share of 14.9 per cent was AAP's gain. The Modi Effect: Between 2015 and 2020 elections, the BJP's vote share increased from 32.3 per cent to 38.5 per cent. The 2020 Assembly election was the first time that the BJP supporters, along with other voters in Delhi, were voting after seeing the performance of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre after a full tenure of five years. Ahead of the 2015 elections, the Modi government was just one-year-old and Delhiites hadn't seen his performance over a long period. If previous results are any indication, the BJP support and vote share in the upcoming elections are likely to rise as voters are now aware of the 'Modi Magic' and his reputation to deliver on guarantees. The possibility of Delhiites voting on Modi's face value, just as voters did in Haryana and Maharashtra, is very high, especially, after the Prime Minister has guaranteed the continuation of all free welfare schemes being offered in the national Capital by the AAP and promising to make Delhi a global-level Capital. Pollsters believe that if the AAP and the BJP promise the same free welfare services, the differentiating factor that might impact the voter decision could be the clean image of the top leaders of both the parties that is, Arvind Kejriwal for the AAP and PM Modi for the BJP. "Such a Modi versus Kejriwal clash in Delhi could give an edge to the BJP due to the corruption allegations against the AAP leader," said a political science teacher from Delhi University, cautioning that the BJP will have to counter Kejriwal's ability to extract voter sympathy by claiming victimisation by the Centre and slapping of "false" corruption cases. Voter turnout: A high voter turnout, a good performance by the Congress, in terms of vote share, and a restriction on bogus voting could still be the key factors that may influence the fate of both the AAP and the BJP in the upcoming elections. An improved performance by the Congress may only keep the grand old party alive in the city where its identity is gradually getting eroded. Among Delhi districts, the highest turnout in the 2015 Assembly elections was reported from North West at 68.58 per cent followed by Shahdara district at 65.81 per cent and 64.26 per cent in East district. The high turnout in trans-Yamuna area, in a way, reflects the high expectations of the residents of unauthorised colonies and unplanned areas in terms of free water, power, health, sewer and roads which the AAP has promised time and again. The lowest turnout was in New Delhi district at 56.24 per cent, reflecting the voter apathy in more developed colonies whose residents already enjoy good infrastructure and, largely, are not eligible for free power and water. The district is home to constituencies like Patel Nagar, Delhi Cantonment, Rajender Nagar, New Delhi, R.K. Puram and Greater Kailash. Bengaluru, Jan 7 : As India embarks on its artificial intelligence (AI) journey, Microsoft Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella, on Tuesday announced $3 billion investment in the country for cloud and AI infrastructure over the next two years. This investment aims to accelerate AI innovation in the country, which is pivotal for achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of becoming a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. The tech giant also announced to train and skill 10 million people in AI by 2030. The company has already empowered 2.4 million Indians, including civil servants, college students and people with disabilities, with AI skills. "India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunity across the country. The investments in infrastructure and skilling we are announcing today reaffirm our commitment to making India AI-first and will help ensure people and organizations across the country benefit broadly," said Nadella. On Monday, PM Modi met Nadella, saying he was glad to know about the tech giant's ambitious expansion and investment plans in the country. At an event here, Microsoft Research Lab launched an 'AI Innovation Network', a groundbreaking initiative designed to accelerate the transition from research to real, usable business solutions. Furthermore, Microsoft and SaaSBoomi have joined hands to propel India's AI and SaaS ecosystem towards a trillion-dollar economy, aiming to impact over 5,000 startups and 10,000 entrepreneurs, creating over 200,000 new job opportunities. In the last 12 months, Microsoft has been a copilot to making AI a reality in India, taking it from boardrooms to classrooms, commerce to communities, and finance to farmers. "Today's announcement strengthens our belief in India's potential and our resolve to equip the country with the resources and future-ready skills needed to excel in the global marketplace," said Puneet Chandok, president, Microsoft India and South Asia. The company will expand its cloud and AI infrastructure across data centre campuses in the country. Microsoft already has three data centre regions in the market, and the fourth ready to go live in 2026. This investment aims to develop a scalable AI computing ecosystem to meet the growing demands of India's rapidly expanding AI start-ups and research community, said the company. Moreover, the company announced its next milestone, to equip 10 million more Indians with essential AI skills by 2030. Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, said India's vibrant youth and tech talent are key to shaping the future of AI. "Through the 'AI for India' mission, we aim to empower citizens with cutting-edge AI skills, driving innovation, creating jobs, and bridging the digital divide. Collaborations with global leaders like Microsoft and similar companies are pivotal in this transformation," the minister noted. Kolkata, Jan 7 : A woman from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali approached the Calcutta High Court, on Tuesday, accusing the local police of lackadaisical investigation into the complaint of gang-rape filed by her against three individuals, including a local Trinamool Congress leader. According to her, the crime took place in May last year, and she and her family members approached the local police to act on the matter. She had complained that the local police refused to register an FIR in the matter then. But, a few days later the police were forced to register the case under pressure from local people. The victim woman now has alleged that for all these months the cops have not moved an inch forward in the course of the investigation. At the same time, she and her family members are under pressure from the accused and their associates to withdraw the complaint at the local police station. Among the three accused named one is Trinamool Congress' block president in Sandeshkhali Dilip Mondal. Calcutta High Court has admitted the petition of the victim woman and the matter is expected to come up for hearing on Wednesday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a yearend trip to Sandeshkhali on December 30, after avoiding such an initiative during the entire period of crisis there earlier this year following allegations of sexual harassment of local women and land grabbing of people by local Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan. While addressing a public meeting at Sandeshkhali on that day, the Chief Minister hinted towards the "money game" influencing the movement by locals there earlier this year. On the very best day, the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhujari conducted a protest at the same place, defying the last-minute denial of police permission for the same earlier in the day and drew a comparison between Mamata Banerjee and the chief of the caretaker government in neighbouring Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Election Commission (EC) announced the dates for the Delhi Assembly elections on Tuesday, setting the stage for a high-voltage tri-cornered contest between the ruling AAP and Opposition BJP and the Congress on February 5. The announcement of the poll dates will now intensify campaigning and the poll blitzkrieg by the top leaders of respective parties, as they seek to win public support. The Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP is eyeing its third-consecutive term, the BJP is mounting an aggressive campaign for its comeback while the Congress is also stepping up its offensive against the ruling AAP, the party which it allied with in the recent Lok Sabha polls. Amid the intensifying political battle, itas the women voters who have taken the centre stage as they are being wooed by all the leading parties with poll sops. AAP National Convenor Kejriwal announced the 'Mahila Samman Yojana', last month, promising financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per month to women in the national Capital, which he said would be raised to Rs 2,100 if his party returns to power. The Congress has announced its aPyari Didi Yojanaa promising a monthly aid of Rs 2,100. Reports suggest that the BJP has also firmed up its plan to announce a similar monetary assistance plan with Rs 2,500 per month. Some reports claim that it was originally BJPas 'idea' to introduce monthly aid for women in the capital, which apparently got aleakeda and the ruling AAP lost no time in taking the lead by launching the 'Mahila Samman Yojana'. In fact, women voters have been at the centre of elections in recent times and the parties who banked on their support also saw their fortunes climbing. Some states, where elections revolved around women issues and their financial empowerment offer good insight into this trend. In the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election 2023, the 'Ladli Behna Yojana' turned out to be a agamechangera for the Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led BJP government as it was this scheme which brought him back to power despite three terms of anti-incumbency. The scheme provided a monthly financial aid of Rs 1,250 to women aged between 23 and 60 years. The BJPas performance in the Assembly elections left the pollsters and analysts baffled as it bettered its own tally from 2018. It won 163 out of 230 seats, as compared to 110 in the 2018 polls. Jharkhand and Maharashtra, the two states which underwent elections in the recent past saw the women-centered schemes dominating the electoral discourse as well as the partyas poll planks. In Jharkhand, the Hemant Soren-led Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) government faced strong anti-incumbency along with various alleged corruption charges. The BJP made JMM-sponsored graft, a big issue in the elections in its bid to oust the incumbent regime. Political watchers believe that the JMMas monetary scheme for women turned out to be its saviour in the hard-fought poll battle and saw the JMM breaking the jinx by returning to power for the second-consecutive term. The Hemant Soren government in August 2023, promised Rs 1,000-monthly aid to women aged between 18 and 50 falling under the Antyodaya category. In the heat of the poll campaign, he announced that the aid would be increased to Rs 2,500 per month if the JMM-led alliance was voted to power. The election results saw JMM romping home with even greater numbers than its earlier performance, five years ago. In Maharasthra, the MahaYuti comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP saw its fortunes dip drastically in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Just a month later in July, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced the 'Laadki Bahin Yojana' for women residents, announcing a monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 to one woman of a family whose annual household income is less than Rs 2.5 lakh. The MahaYuti positioned its poll campaign around the 'Laadki Bahin Yojana', besides other issues. Despite stinging criticism from the Maha Vikas Agahi (MVA), it resonated well with the electorate, so much so that the latter was also forced to promise monthly aid of Rs 3,000 to women voters in its poll manifesto. The result threw up a stunning surprise, with the BJP and its allies of the MahaYuti registering their best-ever performance in Maharashtra. Kohima, Jan 7 : To promote tourism and to facilitate the visit of foreign tourists, the Nagaland government has decided to urge the Ministry of Home Affairs to exclude the state from the purview of the Protected Area Permit (PAP), officials said here on Tuesday. Any foreigner keen to visit certain northeastern states, including Nagaland, has to mandatorily obtain the PAP, also known as the Restricted Area Permit, from the MHA. A Nagaland government official said that the cabinet in its meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on Monday discussed the PAP issue and decided to request the MHA to withdraw the PAP regime in the northeastern state. As part of security measures and considering the northeastern region's strategic location, sensitive nature, and geopolitical issues, the PAP had been in place for foreigners since the 1960s. The travel restriction was temporarily relaxed in 2010-11 in a bid to promote tourism. The relaxation was withdrawn by the MHA last year in the aftermath of the political unrest in Bangladesh and internal turmoil in Myanmar besides the ethnic conflict in Manipur. Besides Nagaland, the PAP is now in force in several other northeastern states. In the cabinet meeting, the ministers discussed the successful celebration of the famous 10-day long aHornbill Festivala from December 1 with around 2,530 foreign tourists attending the iconic event. The 25th edition of the annual Hornbill Festival, at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, 12 km from the state capital Kohima, drew a total of 2,05,968 visitors over the course of 10 days (December 1-10, 2024). According to an official of the Nagaland Tourism Department, last month's festival attracted a diverse crowd, with 2,527 foreign tourists, 56,217 domestic visitors, and 1,47,224 local attendees. The official said that the festival saw a remarkable increase of 33.7 per cent in footfall compared to 2023 when 1,54,057 visitors attended. In the silver jubilee edition of the Hornbill Festival this year, Japan, the US, the UK's Wales, and Peru were the country partners while Sikkim and Telangana were the partner states. The Chief Minister had said that the policy of partner countries and states has added a multi-dimensional aspect to the festival, fostering collaborations, partnerships, and developmental possibilities. The Music Festival has transcended boundaries, positioning Nagaland as an international music destination and providing unparalleled platforms for our talents within the state, Rio had said adding that "most importantly, our collective goal of promoting, preserving, and celebrating our age-old traditions, rich cultural heritage, and the Naga way of life continues to be strengthened through this event". Patna, Jan 7 : Independent MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, on Wednesday called for a state-wide bandh on January 12 to press for the demand of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) candidates seeking cancellation and re-conduct of the examination. He has urged the Mahagathbandhan leaders to join the protest seeking cancellation and re-conduct of the 70th BPSC examination. The announcement came after Pappu Yadav met Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan at Raj Bhavan in Patna on Tuesday. During the meeting, Yadav handed over a memorandum, alleging irregularities in the BPSC examination and sought a thorough investigation into the alleged paper leak and administrative "failures". Yadav revealed that the governor assured him of a proper investigation into the paper leak case, not just for the 70th BPSC examination but also for other exams conducted in the past. "During my conversation with the governor, I raised several concerns about serious irregularities, a lack of transparency, and administrative failures in the 70th BPSC Preliminary Test. These issues have deeply hurt the credibility of the examination system. The circumstances of the examination and its aftermath are extremely worrying," Yadav said. Yadav was accompanied by prominent leaders, including Premchand Singh, Rajesh Pappu, Raghavendra Kushwaha, and Faizan Ahmed. Addressing reporters outside the Raj Bhavan, Yadav criticised political strategist-turned-politician and Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor, saying "He has made the students' movement a pawn to run his political shop." He mocked Kishor's suggestion that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav should lead the students' movement, labelling it as an attempt to exploit students' protests for political gains. Pappu Yadav also condemned the Bihar Police for allegedly suppressing peaceful protests by students. Referring to the lathi-charges on students during their satyagraha in Patna, Yadav stated, "The police resorted to force thrice, violating the students' right to peaceful protest. This is not only against their interests but also an attack on democracy." Photo: The official information website of the President of Turkey BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 7. The international community must make an important contribution to the reconstruction of Syria, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at a meeting with governors in Ankara, Trend reports. According to him, the damage caused to Syria over 13 years has exceeded 500 billion dollars. "It is necessary to comprehensively restore the infrastructure in Syria. The international community should make an important contribution to this process," Erdogan said. The head of state also stated that Turkiye is ready to provide all possible support to the new authorities of Syria and intends to develop good-neighborly relations with it. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted medical bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu till March 31. A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal of the apex court extended the relief solely on humanitarian grounds to allow him to undertake medical treatment. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Gujarat government, submitted that Asaram should not be released since adequate medical facilities were already available to him in custody. On the other hand, Asaramas counsel highlighted grave inconsistencies in the testimony of the prosecutrix. Without entering into the merits of the matter, the Justice Sundresh-led Bench asked Asaram to adhere to the conditions imposed, including the condition not to meet his followers upon his release from jail. The top court suggested that Asaramas health condition may be re-assessed before the expiry of medical bail. In January 2023, a court in Gujarat convicted Asaram in a decade-old sexual assault case involving a woman disciple and sentenced him to life imprisonment. The victim had accused Asaram of repeatedly raping her at his ashram in 2013. Before this, the self-styled godman was convicted of raping a minor girl by a special POCSO court in Jodhpur which sentenced him to life imprisonment. He has been in jail since September 2, 2013. Asaram was granted parole for 30 days by Jodhpur High Court on November 7, 2024 for treatment at a private Ayurvedic hospital located at Bhagat Ki Kothi in Jodhpur. He got parole for treatment for the second time in 11 years. Earlier, he got seven days parole in August. Seoul, Jan 7 : South Korea's special committee of the main Opposition Democratic Party (DP) said on Tuesday that it will file a complaint against acting President Choi Sang-mok for alleged dereliction of duty. Choi has been criticised by opposition lawmakers for not ordering the Presidential Security Service (PSS) to cooperate with attempts by investigators to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. During a press conference at the National Assembly, the committee slammed Choi for eventually allowing the PSS to block the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) from executing a warrant to detain Yoon. "According to reports, acting President Choi remained mum even when the CIO requested cooperation regarding the arrest of President Yoon," the committee said. Choi also did not take any action against Park Chong-jun, chief of the PSS, despite his involvement in blocking the CIO's attempt to detain Yoon, according to the committee. The committee then criticised Choi for not requesting the recommendation for a special prosecutor though the Assembly passed a bill mandating a permanent special counsel to investigate insurrection charges against Yoon. "Acting President Choi has also indefinitely delayed the appointments of Ma Eun-hyuk, a candidate for Constitutional Court justice recommended by the National Assembly, and Ma Yong-ju, a Supreme Court judge candidate," it said. The committee urged Choi to take a "firm stance" in addressing Yoon's insurrection case, including the arrest of Yoon, Yonhap news agency reported. Earlier on January 3, Acting President Choi Sang-mok met with the top US envoy to South Korea and the chief of the US Forces Korea, underscoring the strong South Korea-US alliance despite the ongoing political turmoil in the country. Choi's meeting with Ambassador Philip Goldberg and General Xavier Brunson came less than a week after he had assumed the interim leadership role. "Despite the challenging situation, we unwaveringly upheld diplomatic and security policies based on the strong alliance between South Korea and the United States," Choi had said during the meeting, according to his ministry. Choi also served as deputy prime minister for economic affairs and finance minister. "We asked for proactive mutual efforts to maintain our diplomatic achievements, including cooperation between South Korea and the United States, as well as ties among Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo," Choi had added. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday announced February 5 as the date for the much-anticipated by-election to Ayodhya's Milkipur Assembly seat. The seat had fallen vacant after the resignation of Samajwadi Party (SP) Awadhesh Prasad who got elected as Member of Parliament (MP) in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, creating a lot of heartburn in the BJP circles. His son Ajit Prasad has been nominated from the seat by the Akhilesh Yadav-led party. The date for the Milkipur by-election were announced along with Delhi election dates. The poll panel on Tuesday declared February 5 as the date of voting for the 70-member Delhi Legislative Assembly. The date of the issue of Gazette Notification is January 10, the last date for making nominations is January 17, the date for scrutiny of nominations is January 18, and the last date for withdrawal of candidatures is January 20. The results will be declared on February 8. With Milkipur constituency going to polls in a month from now, it will see a fresh round of intensified and heated poll battle between the ruling BJP and rival SP. Just months ago, the nine constituencies of Uttar Pradesh which went to bypolls hogged the national headlines owing to the repeated war of words between the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and SP supremo Akhilesh Yadav. The BJP-SP fracas in the run-up to the by-elections to nine seats in the state stemmed from Akhilesh's party staging a strong comeback in the 2024 LS polls and the loss of the Ayodhya seat for the BJP. The BJP's big loss was attributed to its infighting while SP saw an exponential rise in its political stature, bagging one of its largest number of LS seats. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's stewardship, the BJP managed to settle scores in the subsequent by-elections by bagging seven out of nine seats while the SP managed to hold ground on just two seats, barely managing to secure its strongholds a" Karhal and Sisamau. With the Milkipur Assembly seat in Ayodhya heading to polls, the political rivalry is set to get vigorous again with both parties taking jabs at each other. It will be interesting to see who gets overshadowed and outmanoeuvred by whom. Kolkata, Jan 7 : Lack of adequate Hindi speakers has become a major headache for CPI(M) to reach out to the masses in those pockets where the Hindi-speaking population constitute a substantial percentage of voters there. This has been revealed in various reports of the party after surveys. The Hindi-speaking voters are high in Kolkata areas like Burrabazar, Posta and Jorashanko. They are in substantial numbers in Barrackpore and Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, and Asansol in West Burdwan district. Ahead of the crucial central committee meeting of the party in April, different organisational reports highlighted the minus points at the district level. This drawback has been identified as a major reason for the failure of the party comrades to connect with the masses even on crucial issues, like the ghastly rape and murder of a woman doctor of state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata in August this year. Party insiders admitted that although there were a series of protest demonstrations throughout the state on rape and murder case, the party comrades were hardly able to interact with the people giving the protest movement a more organised and sustained shape at the local levels. Party insiders further said that in the district-level organisational reports, it has also been pointed out that there is growing complacency among the party comrades to sustain a movement on any issue. Sources in the party said that since several area committees have virtually become inactive at the grassroots level, the party comrades are often getting discouraged from carrying forward the movement on any burning issue on a sustained basis. Now it is to be seen how the central leadership of the party reacts to such observations from insiders at the crucial two-day central committee meeting of the party scheduled at New Town from January 17 to January 19. On January 17, a research centre after the name of nonagenarian Indian Marxist and former West Bengal Chief Minister Late Jyoti Basu will also be inaugurated. On the following day, the central committee meeting may come out with a political resolution for the forthcoming party Congress which might be adopted. The party Congress is scheduled in April at Madurai in Tamil Nadu. And before that in February, the state conference of the party in West Bengal will be organised in any one of the adjacent districts of Kolkata. New Delhi, Jan 7 : : As Kevin Magnussen steps away from Formula 1 following the conclusion of the 2024 season, the Danish driver reflects on pivotal moments in his career-choices and circumstances that could have led him down an entirely different path. From debuting with McLaren to near-misses with top teams like Ferrari and Red Bull, Magnussen's journey has been one of unfulfilled potential and immense pride. New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS): As Kevin Magnussen steps away from Formula 1 following the conclusion of the 2024 season, the Danish driver reflects on pivotal moments in his careerchoices and circumstances that could have led him down an entirely different path. From debuting with McLaren to near-misses with top teams like Ferrari and Red Bull, Magnussen's journey has been one of unfulfilled potential and immense pride. Magnussen burst onto the F1 scene in 2014, making his debut with McLaren at the Australian Grand Prix, where he claimed a stunning podium finish in third place. However, that result would prove to be the peak of his rookie season. As McLaren's performance began to decline, Magnussen struggled to deliver consistent results, ultimately losing his seat to Fernando Alonso in 2015. Reflecting on his time at McLaren, Magnussen acknowledged the challenges of joining the team during their downturn. "It took McLaren 10 years to get back to the form they had in 2012," Magnussen told Autosport. "I hit it right at the beginning of that downward trend. If I had come two or three years earlier, it would have been a different story." Magnussen admitted that his lack of consistency on race days also played a role in his early struggles. "I was quicker than Jenson [Button] on pace, but he outscored me in races. I needed to calm down and finish races. If I had done that, I think it would have been a completely different story. "I just had to finish the races, you know, just calm down a bit. It was not like I needed to do things better. I needed to hold back a little and then I think it would have been a completely different performance in terms of consistency and so on. I think I was unlucky to lose that seat that year, and that kind of changed my trajectory and my career loop," he added. After his McLaren exit, Magnussen spent 2015 as a reserve driver before returning to the grid with Renault in 2016. His fortunes began to improve when he joined Haas in 2017. By 2018, the team's strong early-season performance provided Magnussen with hope for a brighter future. "It was my third year in F1. I was 24 or something...23? You know, anything was still possible," he continued. "I still believed it was possible. And there were moments when I felt it was going in that direction. "In 2018, we had a really good car in the first half of the year. Charles [Leclerc] had just arrived in F1 with Sauber. And the start of his first season wasn't great. And mine was really good! And then suddenly Ferrari was reaching out. Suddenly I was driving in their simulator, not for Haas, but for Ferrari. They were sniffing around. And I thought, okay...I was already getting excited about where this was going. But then Charles started to really kill it! And I heard nothing," he said. Another crossroads emerged after Daniel Ricciardo departed from Red Bull in 2018. Magnussen's management spoke with Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who suggested a potential seat at Toro Rosso (now AlphaTauri). However, Magnussen turned it downa decision he now questions. "Christian said, 'There's nothing at Red Bull, but we can talk about Toro Rosso.' I said, 'No, no, let's not do that,' which I probably should have done. The guy who got that Toro Rosso seat ended up at Red Bull." As Magnussen closes the chapter on his F1 career, he is candid about his shortcomings but harbours no regrets."I could have done more, for sure. There were times when I didn't work hard enough, but then there were times when I worked my butt off. I don't think there's anything I could have done to change the course of my career. I really doubt that," he added. Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 7 : Acclaimed filmmaker Blessy is thrilled after receiving news that his ambitious project, The Goat Life -- the country's largest-ever desert film -- has made it to the final shortlist for nominations at the 97th Academy Awards. The film is competing in the Best Film category, aiming to secure a spot among the top 10 finalists to proceed to the final round of nominations. Speaking to IANS, Blessy shared his excitement. He said, "This is incredible news for all of us who worked on this project. Even making it onto this shortlist is an achievement in itself. We began screening the film for Academy members in the US and Europe back in November. In Los Angeles alone, we held 15 screenings." Blessy added, "The positive reviews we received during the screenings were heartening. Voting begins tomorrow and will continue for a week. Regardless of the outcome, being recognized at this level is a tremendous honour for everyone involved." The Goat Life has already made waves by breaking records, grossing Rs 100 crore within just nine days of its release. The film premiered on 1,720 screens globally last year. Blessy revealed that the story of the film had been with him for 17 years. However, production faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Produced by Visual Romance, The Goat Life boasts a star-studded cast including Prithviraj, Hollywood actor Jimmy Jean-Louis, Indian stars Amala Paul and K.R. Gokul, and celebrated Arab actors Talib al Balushi and Rik Aby. The film's music and sound design have been crafted by Academy Award winners A.R. Rahman and Resul Pookutty, further enhancing its global appeal. The film is about an Indian man who goes to Saudi Arabia seeking work only to find himself forced to labour without pay as a goat herder in the remote desert. Dharamsala, Jan 7 : Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Tuesday expressed sadness over the devastating earthquake that struck Tibet and surrounding regions, causing the tragic loss of many lives, numerous injuries, and extensive destruction to homes and public property. "I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured," the spiritual leader said in a statement from Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement in Karnataka. As many as 95 people were killed and 130 injured after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Tibet, shaking buildings in neighbouring Nepal, Bhutan and even India. In India, the tremors of the temblor were felt in Bihar, Assam and West Bengal. The epicentre of the earthquake on Tuesday was in Tingri county in Shigatse city. Tingri is about 400 km southwest of Tibet's capital Lhasa and is on the border with Nepal. It is a tourism hub for those visiting Mount Everest. In 2010, the Dalai Lama had appealed to Beijing to allow him to visit a Tibetan area hit by a deadly earthquake, saying he wanted to comfort the victims. "To fulfil the wishes of many of the people there, I am eager to go there myself to offer them comfort," the Tibetan spiritual leader had said in a statement in Dharamsala, his home in exile in northern India. At that time more than 1,000 people were killed and more than 11,744 injured when the 7.1-magnitude quake struck Yushu in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. "Because of the physical distance between us, at present I am unable to comfort those directly affected. I commend the monastic community, young people and many other individuals from nearby areas for their good neighbourly support and assistance to the families of those who have lost everything," he had said. The Dalai Lama has lived in the north Indian hill station Dharamsala since fleeing his homeland in 1959. Over 150,000 Tibetans live outside Tibet, most of them in India. Dhaka, Jan 7 : In yet another controversial move to embolden radical elements in the country, the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh has reportedly set in motion the process to acquit Syed Zia-ul Haque, a sacked Major of the Bangladesh Army who is linked to Al Qaeda and is desperately wanted by the United States. In December 2021, the US Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service, through its Rewards for Justice (RFJ) office, offered a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Haque (aka Major Zia) and Akram Hussain, who along with four other individuals were found to be involved in a February 2015 terrorist attack in Dhaka that left US citizen Avijit Roy dead and his wife, Rafida Bonya Ahmed, seriously injured. Both Bangladesh-born US citizens were visiting Dhaka to attend a book fair when they were attacked by assailants with machetes. Roy was killed while Ahmed survived with critical injuries. According to the US State Department, Ansarullah Bangla Team, an Al Qaeda-inspired terrorist group based in Bangladesh, claimed responsibility for the attack through its team in Dhaka. Zia, who reportedly fled to Pakistan later, was also wanted by the Bangladeshi authorities, which declared Tk 2 million for tracing him in 2016, in the murder cases of Jagriti Prokashon's Foysal Arefin Dipon and Kalabagan's Julhas-Tonoy. Previously, in 2011, he had also played a major role in the organisation of a failed coup attempt. As Bangladesh slides into abyss following the fall of Sheikh Hasina government in August last year, the interim government formed under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus continues to give a free hand to the Islamist forces in the country. Recently, the policy of mandatory security clearance required for Pakistani citizens seeking visas was relaxed comprehensively, thus facilitating Zia's return to Dhaka on a Pakistani passport a few weeks ago. Reports cited that, immediately after his return, Zia formally applied for acquittal from all charges and removal from the 'most-wanted' list on December 29, 2024 while seeking to nullify all the convictions and withdrawal of the bounty. Interestingly, local media reported that Justice Mainul Islam Chowdhury, the head of the disappearance committee of the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh (ICT-BD) that will look into the entire matter, is Zia's father-in-law. "The Yunus administration has previously exonerated other Islamist figures, such as Jashimuddin Rahmani, leader of the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT). Following his release, Rahmani publicly called for jihad in India and implement aGhazwa-e-Hinda. These actions have raised concerns about Bangladeshas commitment to counterterrorism and have sparked fears of the country becoming a hub for extremist activities," noted Bangladesh journalist Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury wrote in BLiTZ. According to Choudhury, the Yunus administrationas decision to entertain Zia's request for acquittal has far-reaching implications that could turn Bangladesh into a terrorist launchpad and destablise the entire region. It could also severely harm the country's sliding reputation internationally. "The Biden administration's alleged support for Yunus has come under intense scrutiny. Critics claim that this backing was part of a strategy to counterbalance Indiaas influence in South Asia and empower Pakistan in using Bangladesh as a terrorist launchpad and epicentre of transnational drug trafficking. This support, it is argued, has emboldened Yunus to take actions that challenge international norms, such as lifting visa restrictions for Pakistani nationals and acquitting known terrorists," wrote Choudhury, a renowned regional counterterrorism specialist. Analysts reckon that Yunus is plunging Bangladesh into deep anarchy and chaos with the country possibly staring at severe sanctions, especially after the new US administration takes charge in Washington under Donald Trump later this month. Chandigarh, Jan 7 : Punjab Police have dismantled a drug trafficking cartel with the arrest of four persons, including a woman, and seized five kg of heroin from their possession, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said here on Tuesday. Those arrested have been identified as Gurpreet Singh (19), Baljeet Kaur (32), Maninder Singh (34) and Harpreet Singh (26). Apart from recovering heroin, the police have also impounded two motorcycles. DGP Yadav said all the accused were in direct contact with Pakistan-based smugglers and receiving consignments of drugs from across the border. Probe revealed that consignments were being dropped with the help of drones. The DGP said further investigations are going on to establish backward and forward linkages in this case. More arrests and recoveries are likely in coming days, he added. Sharing operation details, Commissioner of Police (Amritsar) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting on tip-off, a police team conducted a targeted operation and apprehended Gurpreet Singh and Baljeet Kaur in the Guru ki Wadali area along with three kg heroin on January 1. It was revealed that Gurpreet Singh, alias Gopi, and Baljeet Kaur are related as nephew and aunt. Baljeet Kauras husband, Balbir Singh, was arrested in 2022 under the NDPS Act by the Hindumalkot Police Station in Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan, where five kg of heroin was recovered from him. He is currently lodged in Karnpur Jail in Rajasthan. The Commissioner of Police said that efforts are being made to uncover the entire network of suppliers, dealers, and buyers, as well as to ascertain the total quantity of drugs purchased by the arrested individuals so far. A case has been registered under Sections 21(c), 23, and 29, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act at Chheharta Police Station in Amritsar. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Actor Jackie Shroff, who will be next seen in the upcoming streaming title 'Chidiya Udd', has called himself an open book, and shared that he likes to completely surrender to the director's vision. Throughout his filmography, the actor has never shied away from exploring diverse roles and adding richness to his craft. Whether playing the lead young man, a friend, an angry young man, or a grey role, Jackie Shroff has established himself as a versatile powerhouse performer. Recently, the actor, who was recently seen in the theatrical release 'Baby John', spoke about exploring various characters, and how he lets the filmmakers create an image surrounding his characters. Talking about the same, Jackie Shroff shared, "I'm an open book, and I keep on working. I'm an actor; I keep on exploring new characters, be it in 'Baby John' or any other film. I leave myself to the director's vision and the ability of the cameraman and technicians". Jackie Shroff, known for his spontaneity and vibrant personality, left the audiences impressed with his portrayal of grey characters in 'Singham Again' and 'Baby John'. The actor not only pulled off the roles of menacing villains with utmost ease but also delivered characters to remember. Meanwhile, the actor is gearing up to tickle the funny bones with his upcoming comic caper 'Housefull 5'. The actor will be seen in a comic role alongside Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, and others. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the film is palpable, with the audiences eagerly waiting to witness Jackie Shroff portray another stellar role. 'Housefull 5' is set to arrive in theatres on June 6. A limited edition of 88 pieces, a symbol of prosperity and good luck for the coming year. On the occasion of the upcoming Chinese New Year, which will be celebrated on 29 January 2025, marking the beginning of the first lunar month in the Chinese calendar, Perrelet has created the Turbine Snake, dedicated to the Year of the Wood Snake. According to tradition, the Wood Snake is a sign of the zodiac that embodies wisdom and creativity, reflection and mystery: associated with the element of wood, it acquires profound inner strength and the capacity for renewal, promising a year full of opportunities, peace and harmony. Established in 1777, Perrelet continues its series of watches dedicated to the Chinese zodiac, drawing on the inventiveness of its designers, the talent of its master craftsmen and all the industrial skills that enable it to produce its own products in complete autonomy. With the Turbine collection, the Swiss watch manufacture has once again given free rein to artistic expression, interpreting the theme of the Snake while respecting traditional themes and rituals. A 3D snake imbues the dial with a unique identity The Turbine Snake features a red lacquered sub-dial, the colour of luck and protection, decorated with golden auspicious ideograms for well-being and prosperity. Above it, the figure of the snake in stamped and gilded metal stands out with a 3D effect, like a bas-relief: its erected head, with cunning eyes and forked tongue, rises high above the twisted coils of its body, covered with two types of scales. Turbine Snake Perrelet The image of the snake, exuding strength and energy, is made visible by the rotating turbine, a distinctive element not only of this timepiece but of the entire collection. Made up of 12 black anodised aluminium blades, it is activated with just the slightest movement of the wearer's wrist. The faster the blades move, the more the figure of the reptile is revealed in all its expressiveness. For this creation, the rose gold-tone hands are coated with two segments of Super-LumiNova, making them easy to read even in the dark. The hour track is red, perfectly matching the colour of the sub-dial, and has Arabic numerals alternating with luminescent trapezoidal hour markers. Red is also used for the slender central seconds hand. The dial is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass. A smooth and performing device The Turbine, from which the collection takes its name, is a device patented in 2009 and based on the experience acquired by the Perrelet Manufacture in the field of dynamic watchmaking, starting with the Double Rotor Technology developed in 1995. Unlike the Double Rotor, the Turbine has a decorative rather than a functional value, but it also involves difficulties in its manufacture, particularly in terms of assembly. In fact, the watchmakers responsible for the assembly of the device, which is composed of 12 aluminium blades with 5 tungsten counterweights, have to be extremely skilled in order to ensure that the blades rotate smoothly on their axis and return to their initial position once the kinetic energy has been exhausted. The turbine is therefore a tangible demonstration of the expertise and know-how of the Manufacture's master watchmakers. Turbine Snake caseback Perrelet A light and comfortable habillage The Turbine Snake case is crafted from black DLC-coated grade 2 titanium and measures 41mm in diameter and 13.82mm in thickness. It is made of an extremely light yet highly corrosion resistant material and is available in a size that is suitable for the widest audience. Thanks to its perfect ergonomics, it ensures optimal comfort when worn on the wrist. The latest generation design features a flat, slightly flared bezel, a case middle with the traditional grooves, lugs with central attachments that impeccably integrate the rubber strap, and a prominent crown, fluted and decorated with the P of the logo. The Turbine Snake is secured to the wrist with a black rubber strap, also embossed with the P of the logo, and fastened with a folding buckle. A reliable and accurate movement The mechanical heart of the Turbine Snake is the P-331-MH calibre. Designed and manufactured in-house, it is produced by Soprod, a company specialising in movements and owned by Miguel Rodriguez, who also owns Perrelet. It is self-winding, guarantees a 42-hour power reserve when not worn and is equipped with a balance-wheel that beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). Turbine Snake movement Perrelet Known and appreciated by aficionados of micro-mechanics, this calibre has received a double certification, having successfully passed the rigorous tests of two prestigious independent institutes. The first is the official chronometer certificate issued by Cosc (Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronometres), which asserts its precision. The second is the Chronofiable certificate issued by the Dubois Laboratory in La Chaux-de-Fonds, which guarantees long-term reliability. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case-back, decorated with the same image of the snake that appears on the lower dial. It also bears the progressive number of the limited edition of 88 pieces worldwide. All the components are finished to a high standard: the snailing main plate, the circular-graining on the bridges and the openworked, rhodium-plated and brushed oscillating weight mounted on ball bearings embellished with the Perrelet logo. Availability The Turbine Snake comes in a bespoke box with the depiction of the snake motif on the inside. It is accompanied by the certificate bearing the limited-edition number and the movement's COSC certification. This creation will be available from February at authorised retailers and online via the company's e-commerce site. If requested within 90 days of purchase, this model, equipped with the P-331-MH calibre, is entitled to an additional two years' warranty on top of the traditional three-year warranty. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Chief Election Commissioner of India (CEC) Rajiv Kumar on Tuesday called upon all political parties to maintain decorum while electioneering and refrain from "spreading lies" about the electoral process, emphasising that such actions mislead the public and discourage youth participation in elections. Addressing a press conference at Vigyan Bhawan in the national Capital, the CEC said, "In order to ensure inducement-free elections, money power will be tackled, and everyone will be thoroughly checked." Citing an incident during the Maharashtra Assembly elections, CEC Rajiv Kumar highlighted the Election Commission's thoroughness in conducting checks. The incident happened ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections last year when a war of words broke out between the MahaYuti alliance and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) after Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray shared a video of ECI officials checking his bags during the poll campaign. "There were allegations that only a particular leader's helicopter was checked, while others were not. Despite such accusations and even abusive language directed at us, we maintained our composure to ensure a level playing field," CEC Rajiv Kumar said. He also addressed inappropriate behaviour toward polling officials, adding, "Sometimes, threats are made against polling staff. We urge political campaigners and star campaigners to maintain politeness and sociability during elections. Improper behaviour, especially toward women and children, will not be tolerated. This is a strict warning." CEC Rajiv Kumar stressed the importance of ethical campaigning, urging political parties and candidates to follow guidelines and avoid lowering the campaign's decorum. "Don't let campaigns stoop to a level where voters, particularly young ones, feel discouraged. Let's uphold etiquette and fairness," he said. The CEC also mentioned the Election Commission's stringent measures to curb any form of inducement. "Dedicated teams, including District Officers, District Magistrates, and Returning Officers, will ensure fair play and a level-playing field for all candidates, regardless of party affiliation. Violations will invite strict action," he added. He requested political parties not to exert undue pressure on election officials, acknowledging the immense public scrutiny under which they operate. CEC Rajiv Kumar also addressed concerns regarding the electoral process raised during the general elections, including allegations of wrongful additions and deletions in electoral rolls, targeting specific groups, and issues related to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). "During elections, doubts and concerns are natural, but the Election Commission is committed to transparency. Concerns over electoral roll inaccuracies, particularly in Delhi, will be addressed thoroughly to maintain public confidence," he assured. CEC Rajiv Kumar, accompanied by Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, announced the schedule for the Delhi Legislative Assembly elections. Voting will take place on February 5, and the results will be declared on February 8. The Election Commission also reiterated its commitment to ensuring fair, free, and transparent elections, setting the stage for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls. New Delhi/Jaipur, Jan 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to 83-year-old self-styled godman Asaram Bapu till March 31 in connection with the rape case of a female follower at his ashram in Surat. The order was passed by a bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal, which also added a bail condition that Bapu should not meet his followers upon release from the Jodhpur Central Jail where he is serving a life sentence in another rape case. Appearing for Asaram Bapu, Senior Advocate Devadatt Kamat, along with Advocates Rajesh Gulab Inamdar and Shashwat Anand, pressed on the merits of the case as well as on Asaram's medical condition. It was argued that the conviction was based solely on the testimony of the prosecutrix without corroborating evidence and pointed to inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. However, the apex court opted not to delve into merits and confined its consideration to the petitioner's health issues, thereby disposing of the special leave petition. Sources said that despite the bail, it seems difficult for Asaram to get out of jail as he is also serving a separate life sentence for raping a minor. Over the last five months, he has been granted parole three times. Asaramas lawyer, R.S. Saluja, stated that this is the first instance of bail being granted by the Supreme Court. However, Asaram cannot be released due to his conviction in the second case. This case, filed by a woman from Asaramas ashram near Gandhinagar, remains a challenge. Preparations are underway to file a bail application in the Jodhpur High Court for the second conviction, he added. While granting bail, the Supreme Court stipulated that Asaram must not meet his followers or attempt to tamper with evidence. In 2013, Asaram was arrested by Jodhpur Police from an ashram in Indore. After five years of hearings, he was sentenced to life imprisonment on April 25, 2018, for raping a minor. Another rape case was filed by a woman from an ashram in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. On January 31, 2023, the court sentenced Asaram to life imprisonment in this case as well. Meanwhile, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the State of Gujarat, opposed the plea, highlighting the gravity of Asaram's conviction and asserting that adequate medical facilities were available to him in custody. After weighing the submissions, the apex court granted medical bail till March 31, 2025, enabling Asaram to undergo necessary treatment. The bench clarified that the relief was granted solely on humanitarian grounds and directed compliance with conditions imposed during the bail period. The Supreme Court also indicated that Asaram's medical status could be reassessed closer to the expiration of the bail term. Bhubaneswar, Jan 7 : Odisha Health & Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Tuesday appealed to the people not to panic over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus. He assured that the state government is fully ready to tackle the situation. "I discussed through virtual mode with the secretary of the state health department, Director of health, authorities from the major hospitals over the situation in Odisha regarding the HMPV virus. I want to urge the people on behalf of the state government not to panic as the virus hasn't affected much of India and the reporting of positive cases in Odisha is also zero. The health department of the Odisha government is fully ready. The health department will follow all the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in this regard," said Mahaling on Tuesday. The Health Minister said that the people of Odisha extend warm hospitality to the delegates coming to the state to attend Pravasi Bharatiya Divas without worrying about the HMPV virus. "I had a detailed discussion with the departmental officials today through video conference regarding the pre-preparation of the Health Department for the 18th #PravasiBharatiyaDivas starting tomorrow. The State Government is taking care to provide healthcare to the NRIs in Odisha, if required, while they are staying in the state, and the Health Department is fully prepared to avert any health-related situation," he said in a post on X. Mahaling on Tuesday also clarified that HMPV is not a new virus, it has been around in the world for a long. India's healthcare and surveillance system is well-prepared and capable of handling any potential health crisis. The status of HMPV is being monitored closely and there is no cause for concern at the moment, he said. Meanwhile, Odisha Director of Public Health, Nilakantha Mishra, on Tuesday said that no advisory has been issued by the state government in connection with the HMPV virus. Mishra also added that unlike Covid, the HMPV is not highly transmissible. As per reports, the Union Health Ministry has directed the state governments to strengthen and review surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) following the detection of HMPV cases. As many as seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections have so far been detected in children in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee on Tuesday took to social media platform X to inform that the Central government has approved a designated site for the erection of samadhi (memorial) for the late former President. The letter issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs states that a designated site has been earmarked for the erection of a memorial in the former President's name, within the Rajghat premises. Sharmistha, also the former Congress leader, heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the move and said that she was immensely touched by his gracious gesture. She took to X to express gratitude to PM Modi, saying: "Called on PM Modi to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his government's decision to create a memorial for baba (father). It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it. Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM." She also recalled her father's principles while expressing joy over the move. "Baba used to say that the state honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour baba's memory. It doesn't affect baba where he is now - beyond applaud or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy," she wrote. Days ago, when the Congress demanded a memorial for late former PM Manmohan Singh, Sharmistha made her displeasure with the grand old party public, claiming that it did not stand for her father and did not extend the respect he deserved. She noted that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) did not even convene a formal meeting to pass a condolence resolution, despite Mukherjee's decades-long service to the party. The former President passed away on August 31, 2020, at the age of 84. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Over 1.55 crore Delhi voters will elect their 70 new legislators in a single-phase Assembly election on February 5 and the results will be declared on February 8, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday. Sharing details of 13,033 polling stations and the election schedule, CEC Rajiv Kumar, Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu used the opportunity to reiterate that EVMs are tamper-proof, caution parties to maintain decorum in the campaign and avoid making financially unfeasible poll promises. Addressing doubts over the fair conduct of elections, CEC Rajiv Kumar gave an audio-visual presentation on six key issues including wrongful additions or deletion of names in the electoral roll and targeting of particular groups of voters; EVM manipulation; increase in voter turnout after 5 p.m. on polling day; mismatch in votes polled and counted in some constituencies, slowing down of vote counting and change in rules to restrict sharing of CCTV footage of polling booth. The CEC also took pride in the fact that the country is poised to become a nation with one billion registered voters. "Our electoral rolls released yesterday, and in four more states today, show that we are crossing 99 crore registered voters. Soon, we will be a nation of one billion voters, the maximum in the world," he said. While reiterating ECI's inability to stop candidates from making lucrative poll promises, he also cautioned political parties against offering freebies that empty state coffers. "We cannot mortgage the future of the coming generation," he said, criticising the malpractice of political parties making financially unfeasible promises during elections. CEC Rajiv Kumar suggested that the parties should inform voters about the financial cost of each promise they make so that voters are aware of its implication for the government and its debt. To minimise the possibility of the Central government offering freebies to Delhi voters in the coming Union Budget, CEC Rajiv Kumar said the ECI will write to the government barring it from making any Delhi-specific announcement in the Budget that is likely to be presented just four days before voting in Delhi. In the backdrop of rising political temperatures and a spurt in venomous personal attacks in Delhi, the CEC called upon all political parties to maintain decorum while electioneering. The EC told parties to refrain from "spreading lies" about the electoral process, emphasising that such actions mislead the public and discourage youth participation in elections. He said the ECI will not hesitate to file cases if candidates attempt to cross moral limits through derogatory comments against women during the campaign. The ECI's stern message came in the backdrop of BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri's comments -- "Roads like Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks" and "Atishi has changed her father" -- that targeted Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. The CEC, who is likely to retire next month, also gave two suggestions for electoral reforms. He said there is a need to involve the 30 crore missing voters in the electoral process, adding that the nation needs to debate if remote voting, trials for which have already been conducted, could be a solution for involving those who are unable to vote. On the issue of protecting the identity of voters at each polling booth, which is still not fool-proof due to non-mixing of EVMS, he suggested that one way of tackling the issue could be the use of a "totalizer" through which a total of votes from all EVMs could be arrived at the end of each round of counting, masking voting details related to individual EVMs or booths. In the outgoing 70-member Delhi Assembly, the ruling AAP has 62 legislators and the BJP has eight. As the ruling Aam Aadmi Party will be trying to retain power for the third term, the BJP has been pulling out all the stops to come back to power in the national capital while the Congress will be leaving no stone unturned to improve its performance. Mumbai, Jan 7 : In a bureaucratic reshuffle, the Maharashtra government on Tuesday transferred eight IAS officers. Fisheries Commissioner Atul Patne has been posted as the Secretary (Tourism), Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department. Richa Bagla has been posted as Principal Secretary (Accounts & Treasury), Finance Department while Anshu Sinha has been appointed as Principal Secretary (Textile), Co-Operation, Marketing and Textile Department. N. Nawin Sona, Principal Secretary (2) in Public Health Department Mumbai has been posted as Principal Secretary to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Dr Ramaswami N, Secretary (Accounts & Treasury) in Finance Department has been posted as Secretary (ADF) Agriculture and ADF Department. Virendra Singh, Secretary (Textile), Co-Operation, Marketing and Textile Department has been appointed as Secretary (2) in Public Health Department while Pradeep P the Chief Executive Officer, Maharashtra Maritime Board replacing the incumbent Manik Gursal who has been posted as Metropolitan Commissioner, Nashik Metropolitan Region Development Authority. aAccording to sources, the reshuffle is aimed at ensuring better and more efficient governance by the newly-formed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis-led state Cabinet. Fadnavis on December 26, in fact, said that the path to a trillion-dollar economy will be strengthened through good governance while underlining 'Ease of Living' as a crucial factor for the progress of the state. Speaking after unveiling the Maharashtra District Good Governance Index, 2024 report, Fadnavis said: "The progress of a state depends on the 'Ease of Living' there. Therefore, the government is always working to improve the 'Ease of Living' in the state. Good governance in the state is reflected in whether the citizens of the state get government services without delay or not. The state's economy has to become $1 trillion. Good governance is very important. The path to making the state's $1 trillion economy will be strengthened through good governance." Fadnavis said that with the support of the Central government, the District Good Governance Index shows the scope of good governance according to the parameters of various sectors. "This is a very comprehensive index. In the past, the government emphasised people-centric administration and provided a platform called 'Aaple Sarkar' to the citizens to resolve their complaints. "The District Good Governance Index method is not just about showing rankings, but also provides scope for improvement. The difference in scores between the districts getting the maximum and the districts getting the minimum scores in the state is small. Therefore, all the districts are seen making progress," he said. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday directed the administration to follow a seven-point action plan to facilitate ease of living for citizens. During his virtual interaction with the Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, Municipal Commissioners, Police Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, the Chief Minister instructed them on doing top-priority work in the next 100 days. Their actions will be reviewed on April 15. According to the seven-point action plan, the officers will have to update the websites of the departments, work on ease of living concept, conduct cleanliness drives in government offices, resolve citizen complaints and pending cases, take care so that entrepreneurs are not disturbed, visit important government projects and schemes and provide convenience to citizens visiting government offices. CM Fadnavis asked the officers to equip their office websites, make all the information that will be requested under the Right to Information Act available on the websites in advance and make the websites cyber-secure. They have been told to clean government offices, remove unnecessary documents, deregister damaged and unused vehicles. Further, the officers have been asked to ensure that drinking water and toilets are clean for citizens visiting government offices. They should appear clean when officials make surprise visits. He suggested that at least two reforms and innovative initiatives should be implemented in their offices to make the daily life of citizens easier. "Try to reduce the number of pending works to zero. Mention on the information board when the officers will be available to the citizens," he said. Fadnavis directed that the issues and problems of the citizens that can be solved at the local level should be solved at the taluka and district levels. But since this is not happening, the Mantralaya situated in south Mumbai is crowded. For this, he also said that activities like Lokshahi Din should be implemented effectively. "Entrepreneurs come to various places in the state for investments. Take care that they do not face any trouble from anyone. This is not only the job of the Industries Department but also the job of the regional officers. For Ease of Working, the Divisional Commissioners and District Collectors should interact with the officers of the concerned departments and entrepreneurs," said Fadnavis. He asked the officers to pay visits to various important government programmes and schemes at the districts, tehsil and village levels. Periodical visits should be made to schools, anganwadis and health centers. The Chief Minister ordered that the concerned district guardian secretaries should keep a close eye on whether the instructions are being implemented in their respective districts. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal recently launched the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 to priests and granthis in Delhi. One such priest, Pandit Vaibhav Sharma of the Marghat Wale Baba temple, has expressed his doubts about the scheme's authenticity, calling it a mere political promise and questioning its feasibility. New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal recently launched the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 to priests and granthis in Delhi. One such priest, Pandit Vaibhav Sharma of the Marghat Wale Baba temple, has expressed his doubts about the schemeas authenticity, calling it a mere political promise and questioning its feasibility. Sharmaas comments came after the Election Commission of India announced dates for the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls. In an exclusive interview with IANS, Pandit Sharma raised concerns about the credibility of the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, suggesting that it was nothing more than an election stunt designed to garner votes. He also mentioned corruption allegations against Kejriwal, implying that the scheme was being used as a tool for political gain. Below is the full interview: IANS: Arvind Kejriwal recently visited you to register for the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana and promised Rs 18,000 as a monthly honorarium. What are your thoughts on this announcement? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: We were not informed about his visit beforehand. We only learned about it five minutes before Kejriwal arrived. As part of our religious duty, we allow everyone to visit the temple, so we welcomed him without any discrimination. After having darshan and tea, Kejriwal presented a booklet for registration. He asked if we would register, and since we had no other choice, we agreed. He then instructed us to include the numbers of all sevadars. We had no problem registering for 12 people, though we knew only two of us were actually here. After the registration, the media began asking about it, and we have no answers. We see this as just another election promise, Rs 18,000 is unrealistic, and such promises have been made before without follow-through. Weave heard similar promises, like the Rs 2,100 or Rs 2,500 for priests in Punjab, but none of these have been fulfilled. We were told that one lakh people had been registered, but whether the money will actually come is another matter. It feels like just a photo opportunity. IANS: Kejriwal has been giving Rs 18,000 to Maulvis in Delhi for the past few years. Do you think the timing of this announcement is purely for elections? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: Yes, it certainly seems like an election promise. Why wasnat this announced earlier? Why only now, just before the elections? If Rs 18,000 had been promised for the last three years, why is it only happening now? It feels like a last-minute tactic to secure votes. IANS: Given that Maulvis have been receiving this honorarium for years, do you think priests and granthis should have received this payment for the past three years as well? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: If the priests receive the money, it would be a big thing, but itas unlikely. We heard that Maulvis were protesting because they werenat paid on time. If the money was truly meant for Maulvis, they should not have had to protest. In the case of temple priests, their welfare is usually managed by temple committees. If a committee fails, the government should step in. However, as far as I know, no other temple in Delhi has registered priests for this scheme -- at least, we haven't seen any evidence of this or heard about it in the media. The process for registration is unclear, and thereas no transparency. It makes us wonder whether that was just for the photoshoot. IANS: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report recently criticised the Sheesh Mahal project. Do you think Kejriwalas government is corrupt? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: Thatas for the court to decide. But we canat ignore the facts -- how many times has he gone to jail and been granted bail? The Sheesh Mahal issue is under scrutiny because it involved huge sums of public money. The cost of installing a toilet by a prominent company, for example, was extremely high when it could have been done for a fraction of the price. If this is how public funds are being spent, itas very unfortunate. If a toilet costing Rs 4,000 was instead priced at Rs 4 lakh, it raises questions. And this is just one example. If Kejriwal is making promises worth thousands of crores, such as the Rs 18,000 honorarium for priests, but the Delhi governmentas own budget is in deficit, one must ask: where is this money coming from? The Jal Board is running at a loss, electricity bills are disputed, and many other government services are in disarray. So, I have serious doubts about the sustainability of these promises. IANS: Do you believe Kejriwalas recent announcements are a waste of public money? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: If the announcements are made honestly and the funds are used properly, they could benefit the public. Every developed country provides basic services like healthcare and transportation. However, the issue is that the implementation is often flawed. If the government were more transparent and efficient, people wouldnat be as critical. We pay taxes, and we expect basic services in return -- like timely roads, medical facilities, and utilities. People donat care about grandiose projects in hospitals; they just want basic needs met. I pay around Rs 1 lakh in taxes each year, and all I expect in return is good governance with basic services. IANS: Arvind Kejriwal presents himself as an honest man. Whatas your take on this? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: What someone says about themselves is irrelevant. The publicas perception is what truly matters. Itas how the people judge you. I may say that I am a great person, but if the public disagrees, itas meaningless. Similarly, whether Kejriwal claims to be honest or not, the people are the ultimate judges of his actions. The public will determine whether he is truly honest or corrupt. IANS: Who do you trust more -- Arvind Kejriwal or Prime Minister Narendra Modi? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: I trust Prime Minister Modi more. We have lived through decades of hardship, especially in Delhi, before Modi came to power. He has united the country and raised people above caste and regional lines. Under PM Modias leadership, weave seen the Ram Mandir come to fruition. We may face challenges, such as rising fuel prices, but we support PM Modi because we believe in his vision for the country. Itas not about small issues like fuel prices -- itas about the bigger picture. We voted for PM Modi because of his commitment to protecting our culture and religion. IANS: Kejriwalas opponents call him cunning. What do you think? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: Thatas something you should ask his opponents. They know him better. Those who have worked with him will have their own opinions, and they are in the best position to judge his character. IANS: Do you think Kejriwal is using priests to win elections? Why did he not remember priests for the past 10 years? Pandit Vaibhav Sharma: Absolutely, it seems like election politics. For the past three years, Maulvis have been getting paid, but why werenat priests included earlier? Why remember them now? Itas clear that Kejriwal is responding to the political climate, especially with the rise of Hindu unity. PM Modi has united Hindus across caste lines, and Kejriwal now feels the pressure to address the Hindu community. But if this was truly a concern, why wasnat it addressed three years ago? It feels like a reaction to political pressure. Itas better late than never, but I remain skeptical about whether this promise will be fulfilled. Bhubaneswar, Jan 7 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who is in Odisha to attend the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, on Tuesday visited different tourist destinations in Puri and Bhubaneswar. EAM Jaishankar, after arriving at the Bhubaneswar Airport on Monday, headed to Konark for his night halt at Eco Retreat there. The EAM, along with his wife, paid a visit to the world-famous 13th century Konark Sun Temple on Tuesday morning. He also went to the Interpretation Centre at Konark to understand the historical significance behind the construction of the Sun Temple. He was also provided a detailed overview of the maritime links of Odisha with the South East Asian nations and countries in Africa. EAM Jaishankar later visited the 12th century Jagannath temple at Puri and had a darshan of the holy triad there. Speaking to mediapersons after offering prayers at the Jagannath temple, Jaishankar said: "I am very fortunate today to get the darshan of the deities here (at the Jagannath Temple) and there couldn't have been a better start to a visit to Odisha. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is going to be held in Odisha for the first time. The CM and the entire administration have put in a lot of effort for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. The event will be attended by the President and Prime Minister as well. It will be a good opportunity to turn the focus of the world towards Odisha." The EAM and his wife later went to the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Puri where the villagers welcomed the couple. Jaishankar interacted with the artisans of Raghurajpur and got enthralled seeing the Pattachitra paintings and Chandua art there. The EAM also visited the Dhauli Shanti Stupa and 11th century Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. "Visited the Dhauli Shanti Stupa. The message of peace and harmony is particularly important in a volatile world. Also saw the historic rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka with its the message of compassion towards all," wrote EAM Jaishankar on his official X handle. The EAM, who is on a five-day visit to Odisha, will attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas beginning at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar from January 8. Around 4,000 delegates from across the globe will attend the mega three-day event. Hyderabad, Jan 7 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao has approached the Supreme Court to challenge the Telangana High Court order, dismissing his petition to quash FIR filed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) against him in connection with Formula-E race. The former minister's counsel has filed a petition in the apex court. The same is likely to come up for hearing in a couple of days. The High Court on Tuesday pronounced its order, dismissing KTR's petition to quash the First Information Report (FIR) registered last month. The High Court also refused to pass orders to restrain ACB from arresting Rama Rao. It withdrew the interim order which had provided protection to him from arrest during the hearing of the quash petition. Meanwhile, the BRS leader has said that his fight for truth will continue. "Mark my words, our comeback will be stronger than this setback," he posted on X. "Your lies won't shatter me. Your words won't diminish me. Your actions won't obscure my vision. This cacophony won't silence me. Today's obstacles will give way to tomorrow's triumph. The truth will shine brighter with time," wrote KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known. "I respect our judiciary and my unwavering belief that justice will prevail. My fight for truth continues, and soon, the world will also witness it," he added. The ACB on December 29 filed a case against KTR, Special Chief Secretary Arvind Kumar and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) former chief engineer B.L.N. Reddy for alleged financial irregularities in organising the Formula E-car race in 2023 when BRS was in power. The ACB registered the FIR under Sections 13(1)(A) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, along with Sections 409 and 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code. On a complaint by Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Principal Secretary Dana Kishore, the ACB registered the FIR. It alleged irregularities in payments exceeding Rs 54.88 crore made by the HMDA to Formula-E Operations Limited (FEO) and associated entities without adhering to established financial procedures. The ACB had summoned KTR for questioning on Monday (January 6). The former minister visited the ACB office but returned without appearing before the investigating officer after his lawyer was not allowed to be present during questioning. He submitted a letter to the ACB, requesting it to defer the questioning till the High Court pronounces its order. The ACB has issued a fresh notice, directing KTR to appear on January 9. During a recorded interview with American podcaster Lex Friedman, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that at the beginning of the full-scale war, he had a telephone conversation with self-proclaimed Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, during which he apologized for the launch of Russian missiles from the territory of Belarus. According to the dictator's spokeswoman, he contacted the Ukrainian guarantor only at the request of his son, Kolya Lukashenko, who allegedly has his personal number. ADVERTISIMENT Of course, there were also loud statements that no words of apology were made because there was nothing to apologize for. OBOZ.UA will tell you what is known about Kola Lukashenko, who forced his father to justify his actions. The leader of Belarus has three sons, but most often he appeared at public events with his youngest offspring, as he is his favorite. The boy was born on August 31, 2004, in Minsk, but his mother's name remains unknown. According to the most popular assumption, the son of the President of the Republic of Belarus was born by his former personal physician Irina Abelskaya. Interestingly, Alexander Lukashenko does not avoid taking his favorite son with him to official meetings. For example, according to the dictator, the boy was present at the talks between Russia and Ukraine in the spring of 2022. Moreover, he constantly insists on organizing them again. ADVERTISIMENT Kolya Lukashenko began his education in Belarus, but after a wave of protests against the fraudulent presidential election in 2020, he dropped out and moved to Moscow. There, he entered a gymnasium under an assumed name. However, the dictator's descendant decided to pursue higher education in the Chinese capital, Beijing. Why Kolya Lukashenko was adored online It's worth noting that in 2019, the son of the self-proclaimed president of Belarus caused a real sensation online. After a long disappearance from the public space, he appeared on an official visit to China with his father and impressed with a dramatic change in his image. Kolya Lukashenko appeared before the public in a business suit and stylish hairstyle. At that time, one could see that the young man had grown considerably and achieved a more fit shape. By the way, many people see the boy as a potential successor to Alexander Lukashenko. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Jan 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday noted the substantive progress made in India-EU Strategic Partnership over the past decade during a phone conversation with Antonio Costa, President of the European Council. Costa, the former Prime Minister of Portugal, dialled PM Modi after assuming the charge as the President of the council that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union (EU). He was chosen to succeed Charles Michel as Council President following the EU Parliament elections in June 2024. "Pleased to speak with President Antonio Costa. India and the EU are natural partners. We are committed to working closely together to further strengthen the India-EU Strategic Partnership, including in the areas of technology, green energy, digital space, trade and investments," posted PM Modi on X after the phone call on Tuesday. The two leaders agreed to working closely together towards further bolstering the ties and also underlined the need for early conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-EU FTA. "The leaders looked forward to the next India-EU Summit to be held in India at a mutually convenient time. They exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. The leaders agreed to remain in touch," read a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office. The Prime Minister had congratulated Costa -- who also served as the Mayor of Lisbon in 2007, 2009 and 2013 -- when he was elected as the next President of the European Council, last June. In a X post, the Prime Minister said: "Congratulations to my friend Antonio Costa on being elected as the next President of the European Council. I look forward to working closely with you to advance the India-EU Strategic Partnership to greater heights". On Friday, in his speech at the official opening of the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union, Costa had emphasised on a shared vision for Europe to strengthen the unity of member states. "Poland is definitely one of the greatest success stories of enlargement, and the best geostrategic investment Europe has made to guarantee freedom and democracy after long periods of totalitarianism. I have no doubt that the Polish presidency of the Council of the European Union will prove, once more, that patriotism and European integration are interconnected, and that rotating presidencies preserve the role of member states as driving forces of the European Unionas strategic agenda," he said. The motto of the Polish Presidency is 'Security, Europe!' "Our Union was born as a project of peace after World War II, and we need to strengthen once again our security in order to ensure peace in Europe," Costa stated. Patna, Jan 7 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated and laid the foundations for 127 development projects worth Rs 109 crore during his visit to the state's Siwan district on Tuesday. The event was part of the second phase of his Pragati Yatra, an initiative aimed at engaging with the public and reviewing ongoing projects across the state. The main programme was held in Narayanpur village under the Pachrukhi block, where the Chief Minister interacted with the people and shared updates on developmental works. Nitish Kumar inspected the Siwan bypass road and visited the Mohammadpur Mor to Chapuia-Gopalpur road. This road, which spans 13.8 km, is proposed for widening, and the Chief Minister urged the road construction department to expedite the work. "After widening, this road will provide a smooth commute for residents. I have directed officials to ensure timely completion," Nitish Kumar said. The Bihar CM also visited Karhanu village in Hussainganj block to inspect a pond renovated under the Jan Jivan Hariyali Scheme, launched in 2019. "This scheme aims to renovate ponds, wells, and other water bodies to enhance the green cover and create an eco-friendly environment," the Chief Minister said. He instructed officials to construct stairs along the pond's banks for better utility. Nitish Kumar visited an Anganwadi centre and a Primary Health Centre in the village to assess their functioning. He reiterated that free medicines have been available in government hospitals since 2006, emphasizing the governmentas commitment to healthcare access. Nitish Kumar's Pragati Yatra underscores his administration's focus on connecting with people, accelerating infrastructure development, and implementing environmental and social welfare initiatives. The Chief Minister's visit to Siwan highlights the governmentas ongoing efforts to ensure balanced development across Bihar. Earlier on Monday, he visited Vaishali district and inaugurated and laid down the foundation stone of projects worth Rs 276.80 crore, including an upcoming largest industrial park proposed in the district. Nitish Kumar's third phase of Pragati Yatra is starting from January 16 to 27. New Delhi, Jan 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to frugality and ethical governance has once again been highlighted through a response to a Right to Information (RTI) query. It was revealed that neither PM Modi nor late former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh utilised government funds for personal Diwali celebrations during their respective tenures. New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modias commitment to frugality and ethical governance has once again been highlighted through a response to a Right to Information (RTI) query. It was revealed that neither PM Modi nor late former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh utilised government funds for personal Diwali celebrations during their respective tenures. This practice of not spending public money on personal festivities showcases PM Modi's virtue of leading by example, particularly in matters of public accountability and financial propriety. Pune-based activist Prafful Sarda filed the RTI request in November 2024, seeking details about the annual Diwali festival expenditures by both leaders. Dr. Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024, and PM Modi have both maintained that no public funds were spent on their personal celebrations. In a response dated January 3, the Prime Ministeras Office (PMO) clarified that no government money was used for the personal expenses of either prime minister. The PMOas Under Secretary and Central Public Information Officer (CPIO), Parvesh Kumar, stated, "Personal expenses of the prime minister are not borne on government account. Prime Minister Office (PMO) doesnat spend any money for PMas personal expenses." In light of the RTI response, Prafful Sarda expressed hope that other political leaders, including ministers, governors, chief ministers, MPs, and MLAs, will follow the same practice of not utilising government funds for personal expenses, regardless of their political affiliations. "Hope other Ministers, Governors, CM, MP and MLA will follow the same irrespective of their political alliance," RTI activist Sarda remarked. This revelation comes amid controversy over Prime Minister Modias 7.5-carat diamond gift to US First Lady Jill Biden during his 2023 visit. The diamond sparked international debate after US authorities valued it at $20,000, while Indiaas Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the gem, being lab-grown, had a much lower estimated value of under Rs 2 lakh. Damascus, Jan 7 : Damascus International Airport resumed international operations on Tuesday with flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar as the interim administration in Syria continues to bolster ties with Gulf countries. The first flight departed on Tuesday morning for Sharjah, UAE, while a separate aircraft arrived from Doha, the first civilian flight from Qatar in 13 years, airport officials said. The resumption of air travel follows the collapse of the previous regime in December and signals potential warming ties between Syria's new government and its Gulf neighbours. Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani recently held talks in Doha with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, breaking years of diplomatic freeze between the two nations. The Doha meetings focused on Syria's reconstruction and transition, with both sides expressing interest in economic and diplomatic cooperation, according to officials familiar with the talks, reported Xinhua news agency. Al-Shibani also visited the UAE on Monday as part of a broader Gulf tour aimed at establishing relationships with the new Syrian leadership. Meanwhile, Jordan's Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Yousef Ahmed Al-Hunaiti reaffirmed the Jordanian Armed Forces' readiness to support Syria's national security during talks in Amman on Tuesday with Syria's interim defence minister, state-run Petra news agency reported. Al-Hunaiti met with Murhaf Abu Qasra, who assumed the role of interim defence minister in Syria's new administration last month after the ouster of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The two discussed military and security cooperation, with Al-Hunaiti stressing Jordan's commitment to utilizing all available resources to enhance regional stability and bolster both nations' national security. The discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing shared challenges, particularly along the countries' shared border. Abu Qasra highlighted the deep historical ties between Jordan and Syria and reiterated his country's commitment to close cooperation. He praised Jordan's pivotal role in promoting regional security and stability. Amaravati, Jan 7 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday launched the 'Jana Nayakudu' (people's leader) portal in his Assembly constituency Kuppam in Chittoor district to address people's grievances. Amaravati, Jan 7 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday launched the 'Jana Nayakudu' (people's leader) portal in his Assembly constituency Kuppam in Chittoor district to address peopleas grievances. He said the portal will soon be extended to all Assembly segments in the state. Stating that he has been bringing all the systems back on track that have been totally destroyed in the past five years, the Chief Minister said it was his bounden duty to do justice for all the people of the State. Observing that Swarna Kuppam Vision-2029 has been formulated with the sole objective of taking Kuppam on a progressive path in all ways, Chandrababu said that now 'Jana Nayakudu' is launched only with a view to doing justice for all the people of Kuppam by resolving their problems on a war footing basis. The officials of the Kuppam Area Development Authority (KADA) and his personal assistant will always be available here, Chandrababu said adding that they will receive the petitions from the people and bring them to his notice so that they can be resolved on a war footing basis. The issues from the Government side will go to the Public Grievance Redressal System (PGRS) and the officials will take care of various grievances, land issues and matters related to the Chief Ministeras Relief Fund. The Chief Minister stated that he cannot repay the debt of the people of Kuppam who have elected him to the Assembly for eight consecutive terms. Naidu said since the TDP activists took the partyas promises to people to get their votes, he said the responsibility to fulfil these promises lies on him. Similarly, as MLA of Kuppam it is his duty to look after the welfare of the people of the segment, he added. The Chief Minister said interlinking of the Godavari and the Pennar rivers had been taken up to address the problem of drought. "The Godavari waters will be supplied to Rayalaseema, including Kuppam. Also, the Handri-Neeva works will be completed by June to supply the Krishna waters to Kuppam," he said. He also declared that in the coming five years, he would make every effort to take the whole State towards 100 per cent organic farming. Naidu, who was on a visit to his constituency in Chittoor district, released Kuppam Organic Farming Vision-2029. Now medicines are being manufactured as per the requirement of each person and the day is not too far to grow the food items as per the choice of each individual, Chandrababu Naidu said. He revealed that the National Dairy Development Board is coming forward to set up two different units in Kuppam, one for dairy and the other for vegetables along with fruits. Tehran, Jan 7 : Iran's armed forces began a large-scale joint air defence exercise near the Natanz uranium enrichment facility in central Isfahan province on Tuesday, state television reported. The 'Eqtedar' (Power) 1403 exercise was launched on the orders of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defence Base Commander Qader Rahimzadeh, IRIB TV said. The first phase involves Aerospace Force units of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) conducting "all-out point defence of the nuclear site against numerous aerial threats under tough electronic warfare conditions," according to IRIB. IRGC spokesman Ali-Mohammad Naeini said on Monday that the annual drills aim to maintain and improve military preparedness, counter potential military threats and acts of sabotage, and boost national morale, Xinhua news agency reported. The exercise comes after American news website Axios reported last week that US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan presented US President Joe Biden with options for a potential US attack on Iranian nuclear facilities "should the Iranians move towards a nuclear weapon before January 20, 2025." On Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said that the country is ready for negotiations "based on honour and dignity" to address concerns about its nuclear programme 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 programme, and removal of the sanctions on Tehran, would be discussed. 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 programme 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. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Supreme Court Collegium on Tuesday recommended the name of Patna High Court's Chief Justice K. Vinod Chandran for elevation as a judge of the apex court. "While recommending his name, the Collegium has taken into consideration the fact that there is no representation on the Bench of the Supreme Court from the High Court of Kerala," said a statement released by SC Collegium. Justice K. Vinod Chandran was appointed as a judge of the Kerala High Court in November 2011 and was elevated as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on March 29, 2023. "He has served as a Judge of the High Court for more than 11 years and as a Chief Justice of a big High Court for more than a year. During his long tenure as a Judge and Chief Justice of the High Court, Mr Justice Chandran has acquired significant experience in diverse fields of law," the SC Collegium said. In its meeting, the apex court Collegium deliberated on and discussed the names of Chief Justices and senior puisne judges of the High Courts eligible for appointment to the Supreme Court. Born on April 25, 1963, Justice Chandran stands at serial no. 13 in the combined all-India seniority of High Court Judges. He obtained a law degree from Thiruvananthapuram's Kerala Law Academy Law College and started practice in 1991. Before elevation, he served as Special Government Pleader (Taxes) of the Kerala government from 2007 to 2011. Presently, the committee comprising the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court, commonly called the Collegium, sends the recommendation for the appointment of a judge to the apex court as per the 1993 Second Judges Case. The Collegium basically decides who will be appointed as a judge to the Supreme Court or a High Court. As per convention, the government is obliged to accept the Collegium's recommendation if the decision has been reiterated. In 2015, a five-judge Constitution Bench struck down the Centre's idea of the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) to replace the Collegium system. Article 124(2) of the Constitution provides that "every Judge of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal after consultation with such of the Judges of the Supreme Court and of the High Courts in the States as the President may deem necessary for the purpose". --IANS pds/vd Bhopal, Jan 7 : To ensure the disposal of Union Carbide's waste under the safety protocols, the Madhya Pradesh government will spread awareness among the people of Pithampur industrial area, state Urban Development Minister, Kailash Vijayvargiya said on Tuesday. The Minister said the state government will utilise the six-week period granted for the safe disposal of toxic chemical waste, and the process will start after taking the people into confidence. He said the concerns raised by every individual living in the surroundings of Pithampur industrial town would be addressed through proper communication. During an interaction with the mediapersons here in Bhopal on Tuesday, senior BJP leader and minister, Vijayvargiya said: "There is a lot of confusion regarding the Union Carbide's waste, which resulted in the law and order situation in Pithampur. The issue will be resolved through proper communication with the people raising their concerns." The minister further said the panel of government officials along with experts will visit the people in Pithampur industrial town to hold an amicable discussion on this matter. He said people will be informed that the toxicity level of the collected waste has become zero as it has been lying for quite a few days. "During the meetings, officials will give detailed presentations about the Union Carbide's waste to be disposed of at Pithampur. People from different age groups, including women and children will be called for meeting. People will be called in a small group, so that they can get the right information about the impact of chemical waste," he added. Government panels visiting Pithampur industrial town will also inform the people about the gases that would be emanating during the process of incineration of the Union Carbide's waste, and how these gases would be filtered before releasing on air, the minister said, adding that proper communication will also avoid further disturbances. Notably, Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday gave the state government six weeks to dispose of the Union Carbide's waste under safety protocols, after taking the people living in Pithampur industrial town into confidence. The High Court's directions come amid the ongoing protests in Dhar districtas Pithampur industrial town, where the government plans to incinerate the 358 tonnes of waste transported from the Union Carbide factory. The government also sought the courtas permission to open the 12 large containers currently parked at the incineration facility and upload the waste. It said that the waste could not be kept in the containers for a long period. The court, however, said: "In the order dated December 3, 2024, this court directed to take waste material from Bhopal and dispose of 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 direction of this court." Bengaluru, Jan 7 : There is no need for the public to fear the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), said Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, appealing to people to remain vigilant. The Health Department has already issued guidelines, he underlined. Speaking to the media at Gandhi Bhavan on Tuesday, he addressed concerns about the virus. "During a meeting with Health Department officials regarding HMPV, it was discussed that this virus is not a cause for significant concern and is not imported from China. The virus has been known since 2001 and primarily affects children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immunity," CM Siddaramaiah stated. However, experts have clarified that it is not life-threatening. Nonetheless, taking preventive steps is always a good approach, said the Chief Minister. Responding to media questions about the cancellation of a dinner meeting hosted by Home Minister G. Parameshwara, CM Siddaramaiah stated that he was unaware of it. "I am not aware of any dinner meeting being scheduled or cancelled. I will speak with him," the Chief Minister said. Earlier, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held the review meeting of the Health department. The key points included, the Health and Family Welfare Department received a budget of Rs 11,182 crore this financial year. So far, Rs 6,593 crore has been utilised, achieving 58.96 per cent progress. Regarding the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), it was submitted that Karnataka's MMR is lower than the national average. During 2018-20, the state reported 69 deaths per lakh live births compared to the national rate of 97. For 2022-24, the state reduced this rate further to 55. A focused campaign will be launched to eliminate preventable maternal deaths, the meeting decided. CM Siddaramaiah also gave directions that the hospitals must recruit obstetricians and anaesthetists as per delivery rates. Doctors from hospitals with low delivery rates will be redeployed, and specialist availability in taluk hospitals must be ensured, the CM stated. New Delhi, Jan 7 : The Congress will have its new headquarters at 'Indira Bhawan' on Kotla Marg here which is likely to be inaugurated next week. Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate the HQ on January 15. New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) The Congress will have its new headquarters at aIndira Bhawana on Kotla Marg here which is likely to be inaugurated next week. Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate the HQ on January 15. This will be a significant step forward in the party's modernisation efforts, claim the party leaders. The much-anticipated event will take place at 10 a.m., with senior political figures in attendance, including AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition (LOP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi. Congress General Secretary, KC Venugopal, shared the information on the social media platform X, under the title: "It is time for us to move ahead with the times and embrace the new!" The Congress leaders have termed the occasion as a momentous step for the Congress, symbolising both progress and the enduring legacy of the party's leadership. "Situated at 9A, Kotla Road, New Delhi, the Indira Gandhi Bhawan is designed to meet the evolving needs of the party and its leaders, featuring modern facilities to support administrative, organisational, and strategic activities. This iconic building reflects the Congress Partyas forward-looking vision while paying homage to its extraordinary past, which has shaped the political and social fabric of India," wrote Venugopal on X. "Sonia Gandhi ji will inaugurate the new AICC Headquarters Indira Gandhi Bhawan, whose construction was started during her tenure as INC President," he shared. At the inauguration, the Congress leadership will be joined by senior members of the party, including the Congress Working Committee (CWC) members, CWC Permanent and Special Invitees, CPP Office Bearers, AICC Office Bearers, Central Election Committee (CEC) Members, Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Chiefs, CLP Leaders, Members of Parliament (MPs), as well as former Chief Ministers and former Union Ministers. The presence of such distinguished leaders will underline the importance of this occasion, marking a new chapter in the party's journey, says the party leader. According to information, the new headquarters is designed to accommodate the evolving needs of Congress, offering modern spaces for administrative, organisational, and strategic activities. With cutting-edge facilities, it aims to support the party's operations, providing a dynamic environment for its leadership and members. It also serves as a powerful symbol of Congress' resilience and its determination to play a central role in shaping India's future. Hollywood stars Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck, whose love has captivated millions of fans around the world, have officially ended their relationship. Their marriage, which resumed in 2022 after a 22-year break, is now part of their history. ADVERTISIMENT The official dissolution of the marriage took place almost 20 weeks after Jennifer Lopez filed the court documents. According to People, she filed an application with the Los Angeles County Superior Court without a lawyer, asking not to provide spousal support to either party. The celebrity also asked to restore her former name, Jennifer Lynn Lopez. The source reports that the actress was relieved after filing for divorce. However, J.Lo's family members claim that she did not want to end the marriage: "She wanted to sort things out. They love each other. Jennifer is not the kind of person who just gives up." Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck were married for two years. However, the stars had a relationship back in 2004, but broke up the day before the wedding. Later, the actors broke up without scandals and mutual accusations, assuring that they were just in a hurry and were not ready for the paparazzi's scrutiny. They soon began to build a new relationship. ADVERTISIMENT However, in July 2022, it became known that the lovers secretly got married in Las Vegas. This time, the couple wanted to avoid publicity, so their wedding ceremony went off without prying eyes. However, their married life was scrutinized by journalists and fans. For example, Lopez and Affleck were married for less than two years, and on their second wedding anniversary, it became clear that things were not going well in their family. The celebrities spent these days separately from each other: the man bought a new house, and the woman filed for divorce. Lopez cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the divorce, which is often written when people don't want to go into the details of a breakup. The artist demanded to divide their property. The fate of the joint property is unknown. ADVERTISIMENT However, now the former lovers are trying to show the public that they are doing well in life and, moreover, they managed to find a soul mate quite quickly after the breakup. Thus, the network began to discuss Jennifer Lopez's handsome bodyguard, who accompanied the actress almost everywhere. She went out in public with him, holding his hand. Before that, Ben Affleck was suspected of having a new affair. Back in August 2024, he was spotted with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s daughter Kathleen "Kick" Kennedy. The couple spent time together, but they were in no hurry to publicize their relationship. "They didn't have any flings while Ben was with Jennifer, but it's interesting for Kick's friends that as soon as the divorce was officially announced, Affleck suddenly started spending time with an old girlfriend whose family he considers royalty," an insider said. Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that Jennifer Lopez appeared on social media in a "revenge dress" while her ex-husband was spending time with his ex. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Guwahati, Jan 7 : The divers of the rescue team have dived twice in the coal mine in Assam's Umrangso locality in the Dima Hasao district, officials said on Tuesday. The rescue operation will continue the whole night while the search operations for the trapped labourers will commence again on Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, draining the water from the mine is being done by the task force members. A senior Army officer said: "Rescue Task Force of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, comprising divers and engineers attempted diving twice into the mine at Umrangso in Dima Hasao District of Assam. "Engineers of the Indian Army are currently assisting the civil administration in removing water from the mine and have also coordinated provision of adequate lighting to illuminate the site, enabling continuance of operations at night. The joint rescue efforts will continue through the night while search operations will commence again tomorrow morning to rescue the trapped miners," he added. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that illegal coal mining was carried out at the site where the labourers got trapped and a case in relevant sections were registered. Police have arrested one person in connection with the illegal coal mining. Sarma said in a post on X said: "The police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS, r/w Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to investigate the incident. Prima facie, it appears to be an illegal mine. One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case." At least nine labourers have been identified who were trapped in a coal mine in Umrangso locality. Out of the nine labourers who were still trapped in the coal mine, one is a national of Nepal, one from West Bengal and rest hail from different parts of Assam. They have been identified as Ganga Bahadur, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Sheikh, Khusi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. Bengaluru, Jan 7 : A residential school based in Haryana's Faridabad has shared information regarding the missing child of the deceased techie Atul Subhash with the Bengaluru Police. The school has also confirmed that he is staying in the residential school's hostel currently. The parents of deceased Atul Subhash have filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking the custody of the child. They had maintained that the child was missing and they fear his safety. The school stated, "Presently, winter vacations are ongoing, and no one has come to take the boy home for the break. Special arrangements have been made for him to remain in the hostel during the vacation period under the school's care." Dr Arun Kumar Sharma, Principal of Satyug Darshan Vidyalaya, a residential school, in Faridabad, Haryana has written a letter in this regard over the inquiry by the Marathahalli police station. The letter addressed to the police sub-inspector, states, that Atul's four-year-old son is a bonafide student of the residential school. IANS has obtained a letter from the school in response to the query by the Bangalore Police regarding the whereabouts of Atul Shubhsh and Nikita Singhania's 4-year-old son. The principal has also shared relevant documents related to the child's admission, which are now with IANS, including the admission form with specific details. According to the letter, the mother Nikita Singhania, a technical team leader, has claimed that she is the sole guardian and single mother of the child and has stroked off the column to be filled with details of the father. The document says that the boy is currently staying in the hostel and enrolled for Grade Nursery at the school. Nikita Singhania, the boy's mother personally completed his admission process at the school. 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 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, stated that the family is worried about the safety of his grandson. "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 stated. 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. Hyderabad, Jan 7 : Terming the allegations of corruption against him as politically motivated, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BR)S working president K.T. Rama Rao on Tuesday accused the ruling Congress in Telangana of trying to divert public attention from governance through false propaganda. Talking to mediapersons on Tuesday night, he said he has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the High Court order, which dismissed his quash petition in the Formula-E race case. Claiming that he is a law-abiding citizen, Rama Rao said he would fight the case legally and Constitutionally. "This Formula E case against me is politically driven and lacks substance. Despite knowing the baseless nature of the accusations. I appeared for the ACB inquiry as a law-abiding citizen. I had stated that I would appear with my lawyer. However, despite waiting for half an hour, the ACB officials hesitated to question me," he said. KTR made it clear that he is ready to cooperate with investigations, including appearances before the ACB and ED. "I have nothing to hide and will answer all questions. My integrity is my strength," he asserted. He said he would approach the High Court to ensure that questioning takes place in the presence of his lawyers. KTR criticised the Congress party for celebrating a mere dismissal of a quash petition in the High Court. "The High Court only dismissed the quash petition, yet Congress leaders are rejoicing as if I've been sentenced or proven guilty of a crime," he said. The BRS leader said he would use every right available to him to fight the baseless and politically motivated cases filed by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. "Congress' interest lies in Formula E, while our interest lies in farmers. We talk about Rythu Bharosa (farmer support) while Revanth Reddy is busy with diversions. We know the kind of mischief he's up to," KTR remarked. He also highlighted the Congress party's alleged failure to deliver on its promises. "Instead of addressing the concerns of farmers and citizens, Congress is busy playing diversionary tactics. Their six guarantees remain unfulfilled, leaving farmers and pensioners in distress." KTR reiterated that the Formula E event in Hyderabad was aimed at establishing the city as a global hub for innovation and sustainable technology. "Our vision is to position Hyderabad as a center for electric vehicle manufacturing, which will create jobs and bring investment," he explained. Aizawl, Jan 7 : The swearing-in-ceremony of former Union Minister and Army chief, Gen Vijay Kumar Singh (retd), as Mizoram's new Governor, scheduled earlier for January 9, has been postponed to January 16, officials said here on Tuesday. Aizawl, Jan 7 (IANS) The swearing-in-ceremony of former Union Minister and Army chief, Gen Vijay Kumar Singh (retd), as Mizoramas new Governor, scheduled earlier for January 9, has been postponed to January 16, officials said here on Tuesday. Raj Bhavan and Mizoram government officials officially did not disclose the reasons for the postponement of the swearing-in ceremony of the new Governor. An official said that the Governor-designate has deferred his arrival in Mizoram and the oath-taking ceremony. Another official, quoting a source of the new Governor, said the deferred arrival might be due to a family memberas medical treatment. Earlier, Mizoram government officials said that Gen Singh (retd) would arrive in Aizawl on January 8 and the swearing-in ceremony was scheduled to be held on the next day. The Governor-designate would now arrive in Aizawl on January 15 and the swearing-in-ceremony would be held on the next day. Mizoram currently has no Governor after incumbent Hari Babu Kambhampati, who held the post for more than three years and five months, left the state on January 2 and took up the gubernatorial charge in Odisha the next day. Officials said that the new Governor, upon assuming the charge, is likely to convene the Budget session after his swearing-in-ceremony. Gen Singh (retd) served as the 24th Chief of Army Staff and after retiring from the army, entered politics and was elected as a Member of Parliament from Ghaziabad on a BJP ticket in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first term, he served as the Minister of State for External Affairs, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), and Minister of State for Statistics and Programme Implementation. In PM Modi's second term, he held the portfolios of Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways and Civil Aviation. Agartala, Jan 7 : A group of cross-border smugglers on Tuesday tried to attack a team of on-duty Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and attempted to snatch the weapons of the jawans near northern Tripura, but the bordering guarding force thwarted the daring move, officials said. Significantly, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) assisted the BSF in dispersing the smugglers. Officials said that a team of BSF jawans on duty near the India-Bangladesh border under Magroli gram panchayat in Unakoti district came under attack from a group of 15-20 Bangladeshi smugglers. "Alert BSF troops in the area tried to intercept a group of Bangladeshi smugglers while they were trying to smuggle various contraband items. Upon being ordered to halt, the smugglers tried to lash out at the BSF jawans with sharp weapons and tried to snatch the jawans' arms and ammunition and abused the security personnel in filthy language," the official said. He added that amidst the confrontation between BSF jawans and smugglers, some Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel from the other side came near the border fence and assisted the Indian forces by putting up a collective effort to thwart the smugglers and helped the BSF jawans amidst the commotion. After additional BSF troops arrived at the spot, the smugglers managed to flee. The official said that the BSF and BGB personnel were found to have exercised significant restraint by not shooting at the smugglers. Tripura, which is surrounded by Bangladesh on three sides, shares an 856-km-long international border, parts of which are still unfenced in patches due to local disputes on land and demarcation-related issues. 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 forcing the BSF to strengthen the vigil along the international border. A BSF spokesperson 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. Patna, Jan 7 : The Bihar government has taken precautionary measures to address the potential spread of the virus after over five cases of Human Metapneumo Virus (HMPV) have been reported in the country. Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey has directed authorities to ensure preparedness, issuing guidelines and setting up measures across health institutions in the state. The Bihar Health Department has instructed hospitals to establish flu desks and prepare for RT-PCR testing to detect the virus. Additional guidelines have been issued for the monitoring and management of HMPV, a respiratory infection with symptoms similar to Covid-19. Pandey also directed authorities to regularly monitor patients and daily report of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and severe respiratory infections. "We have asked officials to deploy training health workers in prevention and management of HMPV, strict implementation of infection control procedures at all health institutions, ensuring the availability of critical resources like ventilators, oxygen, Covid-19 medicines, and testing kits to mitigate risks," Pandey said. The Health Department emphasised adherence to preventive measures similar to Covid-19 protocols, including frequent handwashing, covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing, maintaining distance from infected individuals, and cleaning and disinfecting items used by infected persons. Health Minister Mangal Pandey advised immediate consultation at the nearest health centre if respiratory symptoms develop, particularly for vulnerable groups like small children, the elderly, and immune-compromised individuals. "No specific vaccine or medicine is available for HMPV infection. Symptom-based treatments such as adequate hydration, rest, and oxygen support in severe cases are essential. The state government is fully committed to preventing infection and strengthening health services," Pandey said. HMPV is a common respiratory infection that affects people of all age groups, especially young children and the elderly. While there is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for the virus, early diagnosis and supportive care can significantly improve outcomes. The Bihar government's proactive stance reflects its commitment to managing emerging health challenges. Hospitals and healthcare facilities have been placed on high alert to tackle any potential surge in cases, ensuring public health safety. Mangaluru, Jan 7 : Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said on Tuesday that the VIP darshan culture concept in religious places is opposed to the idea of equality. He was addressing the gathering after the inauguration of the New Queue Complex "Sri Sanidhya" at the famous Hindu pilgrimage centre of Karnataka's Dharmasthala in Mangaluru district. He also inaugurated the 2024-25 Jnanadeep programme. "The religious institutions are emblematic of equality since there is no individual higher before the Almighty or the God. We should reinstall the idea of equality in religious institutions. When precedence is accorded... when priority is given to someone, when we label it as VVIP, this is belittling the concept of equality," Vice-President Dhankhar opined. "VIP culture, friends, is an aberration, it is an incursion when viewed in the anvil of equality. It should have no place in society and much less in religious places," he underlined. "Let us shun for all times VIP culture. The very idea of VIP darshan militates against divinity it should be dispensed with," Vice President Dhankar appealed. "A soothing change in recent years in our country has been infrastructural growth that is germane to our religious places. This needs to be applauded as these are centres also of our civilisational values," he noted. "India is like the spiritual centre of the world, and Dharmasthala is its crown jewel. Lakhs of people come here to seek blessings from the Lord." Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said: "This place is a blend of spirituality, excellence, and beauty, with state-of-the-art facilities. India's religious places are more than just places of personal faith. They are centres of community service." "Dharmasthala's contribution in the fields of education and medicine is immense. India is a rural country, and its development determines the country's economy. Sri Kshetra is doing development work in rural areas," he added. "India is growing globally. Our goal should not just be to make India a developed country by 2047, but it should be our purpose. This can be achieved by personally contributing to the country. India is a land of culture, and one-sixth of the world's population resides here. The new generation of youth should know about our civilisation. Otherwise, we will forget our history," the Vice-President said. During the event, D. Veerendra Heggade, BJP Rajya Sabha MP and administrator of Dharmasthala temple, in his address emphasised the core foundation of the newly inaugurated complex is rooted in the principle of "Bhaktadhi devobhava" (Devotees are God). This guiding value has influenced every aspect of the design and construction of this temple, Heggade added. "Every detail of the complex reflects a deep consideration for enhancing the experience of the devotees, providing them with a more organised, comfortable, and welcoming environment during their visit. The various facilities within the complex are aimed at ensuring that each devotee can have a smooth, efficient, and spiritually fulfilling experience," the BJP MP said. The Sri Sanidhya can accommodate around 10,000 people at a time, reducing the waiting time for devotees to have darshan. The new queue system complex 'Sri Sanidhya', equipped with the latest technology, is a three-storey building spread over 2,75,177 square feet with 16 waiting halls. It has a children's care room, a weighing room, a food counter, well-maintained toilets, a VIP waiting room, AI CCTV, air conditioning, emergency medical facilities, clean drinking water, television facilities, fire safety, emergency lifts, and solar power. The Jnanadeepa project has been implemented to improve the quality of education in rural areas. Vice-President Dhankhar inaugurated the 2024-25 Jnanadeepa project by providing scholarships to students. Vice President Dhankhar's wife Sudesh Dhankhar, Hemavati V. Heggade, BJP MP Brijesh Chowta, Vice-President of SDM Educational Institutions D. Surendra Kumar, and Secretary of SDM Educational Institutions D. Harshendra Kumar were present at the event. Mumbai, Jan 7 : Under the ongoing Sanghatan Parva of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a 'Ghar Chalo Abhiyan' has been scheduled on January 10 for primary member registrations. All the party ministers, public representatives from Panchayat to Parliament level and all office bearers will participate in this drive, said Maharashtra unit BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Tuesday. Bawankule expressed confidence that the party's target of registering one and a half crore primary members will definitely be achieved. He told reporters that the membership registration campaign has started in the state as a part of the party's Sanghatan Parva. "On January 5, all the prominent leaders, public representatives and office bearers along with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis went to the booth level and participated in this drive. On January 10, all the prominent leaders, public representatives and office bearers of the party will visit at least 40-50 houses in each booth and register primary members," he said. Bawankuke said that the party has set a target of registering 1.5 crore primary members in the state. After the primary member registration, the 'Sakriya Sadasya' (active member) registration campaign will start. By registering 5 active members in one booth, 5 lakh active members will be registered in the state. He also expressed confidence that the people of the state will respond to the member registration campaign to fulfill the resolutions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a developed India and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for a developed Maharashtra. aThe BJP is in alliance with the Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party in Maharashtra in the MahaYuti government, While Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP is the Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde of Shiv Sena is his deputy, and Ajit Pawar is also another Deputy Chief Minister. Davanagere : , Jan 8 (IANS) Slamming the Congress-led Karnataka government over maternal deaths, the BJP has made a serious charge that despite the Drug Controller's alert, substandard medicines supplied to hospitals under the concerned minister's influence. Davanagere (Karnataka), Jan 8 (IANS) Slamming the Congress-led Karnataka government over maternal deaths, the BJP has made a serious charge that despite the Drug Controlleras alert, substandard medicines supplied to hospitals under the concerned ministeras influence. As part of the BJPas Fact-Finding Committee, MLA Chandru Lamani and committee members visited the District Maternity and Children's Hospital and Chitageri District Hospital in Davanagere. Speaking to the media later, Lamani accused the government of permitting the use of these medicines in exchange for commissions. MLA Chandru Lamani has raised objections, alleging that despite the Drug Controlleras alert about substandard medicines supplied by a West Bengal pharmaceutical company, the warning was ignored. When questioned, the medical superintendent mentioned that a letter was issued on February 21, 2024. However, Lamani pointed out that the government had been informed 11 months ago that the saline supplied by the company was defective. Despite this, the government continued to mandate its use. Doctors had raised concerns about fungal growth in the saline bottles supplied by the company, Lamani added. The same saline was distributed to district, taluk, and PHC hospitals across the state. The MLA revealed that in the previous year, 21 maternal deaths were recorded at CG Hospital, while this year the number has already reached 33, with four months still remaining. Many deaths were reportedly due to septic shock, which Lamani linked to the contaminated saline. He explained that contaminated saline can cause blood vessels to harden, leading to such cases. He alleged that the same saline continued to be supplied until November 16, even though its poor quality was well-known. Instructions were issued to recall specific batches of the medicine, but only 5 per cent of the stock was returned, with the rest being used. MLA Lamani accused the minister of facilitating the approval for the company to supply the medicine. In the Belagavi session, the minister had announced Rs 5 lakh compensation for the families of deceased mothers and Rs 2,000 for childcare. However, Lamani criticised the government for not visiting the bereaved families. He demanded that the families of the deceased be provided Rs 25 lakh in compensation and that the government take full responsibility for raising the affected children, including their education. He also urged penalties for the company, which has allegedly profited crores, and its inclusion in a blacklist. The MLA pointed out the lack of ICU beds in many places, including maternity hospitals. Establishing ICUs or critical care units could help reduce maternal mortality rates, he argued. He emphasised the need for proper care for high-risk pregnancies and filling staff shortages in both hospitals. He called for better procurement and supply of essential medicines and improved care facilities for patients with severe conditions. BJP State Womenas Morcha Vice President Dr Vijayalakshmi Tunga, senior leaders Dr Padma Prakash, Ashok Gowda, Gayathri Siddeshwar, Davanagere District President Rajendra Nagappa, State Womenas Morcha Vice Presidents Jaya H.C., and State Womenas Morcha General Secretary Nishchima Gowdru were present. Minister for Health Dinesh Gundu Rao had earlier rejected allegations and maintained that the law with regard to tame the pharmaceutical companies should be implemented effectively by the central government. Mumbai, Jan 7 : The family members of former Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, who was brutally killed on December 9, on Tuesday met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and sought justice for them and stern action against those involved in this case. Santosh Deshmukh's brother Dhananjay Deshmukh, after the meeting, told reporters: "The Chief Minister has assured us that no matter whoever is the accused in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case, he will not be spared. They will be punished. Criminals will not be forgiven... that's what the Chief Minister assured us. "We discussed all these matters with the chief minister. We had some official things that showed them to the Chief Minister. We have handed over documents with regard to 28 FIRs lodged since May and demanded action in that regard too. We told the Chief Minister we want justice." He further: "We gave some evidence relating to the murder of Santosh Deshmukh and discussed it. We only want justice. An impartial investigation should be conducted. We demanded that whoever is behind this should be punished. We demanded that the CDRs of all the things mentioned in the FIR should be checked." To a question about whether they demanded the resignation of the NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, he said the Chief Minister would take a call on this matter. Further, Dhananjay Deshmukh said that the chief minister has accepted all their demands and given a promise that all those involved in the case would be punished. He added that the chief minister has assured him to share investigation reports in two days. The Chief Minister's Office said: "The CM has assured that the government will take stern action against all culprits. The names of the police officers suggested by the Deshmukh family will be included in the special investigation team which is currently conducting a probe into the murder of Santosh Deshmukh case." BJP legislator Suresh Dhas said that the chief minister has categorically assured the Deshmukh family members that no one will be spared. On the demand for the resignation of NCP minister Dhananjay Munde from the Cabinet, he added that those linked with the case should be relieved from their posts. Earlier, NCP minister Dhananjay Munde attended the weekly cabinet meeting held at Mantralaya. He told reporters: "I have not resigned. I am attending the pre-cabinet meeting and also the cabinet meeting. Let BJP legislator Suresh Dhas continue to demand my resignation. I will give reply to him at a proper time." Munde had met NCP President and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday. After that, Ajit Pawar has ruled out seeking Munde's resignation. "There are SIT, judicial probes going on. Let these agencies complete their investigations. If the probe names anyone, only then there will be action," he said. Inah Canabarro Lucas, a 116-year-old nun from Brazil, has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest person in the world. The nun began her religious journey as a teenager, and celebrating her 110th birthday, she received an apostolic blessing from Pope Francis. Despite her age, the woman is in fairly good health, although her relatives used to fear that she would not even live to be 18. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported on the official website of Guinness World Records. It is noted that the record holder devoted most of her life to teaching, so she was able to visit many parts of the world. Inah Canabarro Lucas was born on June 8, 1908, in the Brazilian city of Sao Francisco de Assis, located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. As a child, she was so thin that many of her relatives believed that she would not even live to see adulthood. However, ironically, everything turned out to be quite the opposite. The record holder began her religious journey at the age of 16. At first, she studied at the Santa Teresa de Jesus boarding school. Eventually, the Brazilian moved to Uruguay, where she took a vow to become a nun on July 27, 1934. After an important event in her life, Inah Canabarro Lucas returned to her homeland. She became a teacher of Portuguese and math. ADVERTISIMENT In 1980, the woman took a high position in the Provincial House in Porto Alegre. When Inah Canabarro Lucas celebrated her 110th birthday in 2018, a rather important event took place in her life. The record holder received an apostolic blessing from Pope Francis. It is worth noting that the nun entered the Guinness Book of World Records after Japanese pensioner Tomiko Itooka passed away. The life of the long-lived woman, who in August 2024 was named the oldest person in the world, ended at the age of 116. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Mumbai, Jan 8 : Director Anil Sharma, whose recent release 'Vanvaas' has been getting a lot of positive response, has reacted to the Supreme Court's judgment on gift deed. The apex court highlighted the importance of protecting senior citizens, stating that gift deeds executed by parents can be invalidated under the Maintenance and Welfare of the Parents and Senior Citizens Act if their children do not provide for them. The Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, is designed to protect the dignity and rights of senior citizens. Talking about it, Director Anil Sharma said, "I'm filled with immense gratitude knowing that the Supreme Court has delivered such a significant ruling with the Landmark Gift Deed Decision. When I created 'Vanvaas', I was hoping to see the change in the society, now coincidentally it is happening at the right time. I'm especially happy for the elderly who will benefit from this ruling. As a filmmaker, it's truly a dream to see the issues you choose to address on-screen produce such swift and meaningful results." 'Vanvaas' paints a poignant picture of the struggles faced by India's elderly, including neglect, dementia, and other age-related challenges. The recent judgment underscores how Indian cinema not only reflects society but also catalyses meaningful change, urging audiences and policymakers to re-evaluate their responsibilities toward the most vulnerable members of the community. Produced by Anil Sharma and Zee Studios, 'Vanvaas' is now successfully running in theatres. Anil Sharma, who returned to the fold in 2023 with his blockbuster 'Gadar 2' is known to tell the stories in an old-school way but packaged in a new format. 'Gadar 2', which starred Sunny Deol and Utkarsh, collected Rs 686 crore worldwide, out of which a huge chunk of its collections came from India where it collected Rs. 525.7 crore. The film breathed new life into the career of Sunny Deol, who will be next seen in 'Lahore 1947'. 2023 proved to be a great year for the Deols with the Dharmendra-starrer 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' turning into a superhit followed by Sunny's 'Gadar 2' and Bobby Deol's 'Animal'. Chandigarh, Jan 8 : A Chandigarh Police Inspector was injured on Tuesday in a clash with Quami Insaaf Morcha members here after the police fired teargas shells and resorted to cane-charge to prevent them from marching towards Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's residence. The Quami Insaaf Morcha has been demanding the release of Sikh prisoners languishing in jails. Station House Officer Jaiveer Rana was injured in the clash in Sector-43, the police said. The protesters were seeking the release of Sikh prisoners or 'Bandi Singhs' and had entered Chandigarh from Mohali where they gathered on Tuesday morning to mark the second anniversary of the Quami Insaaf Morcha. As a preventive step, the Chandigarh Police deployed additional personnel on entry points to the city from Mohali in Punjab. Despite scores of protesters managing to enter the city, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana. All the major entry and exit points from Mohali towards Chandigarh were fortified with barricades to prevent their entry, leaving residents and commuters stranded on several roads. Near the ISBT in Sector-43 here, a clash broke out between the police and CRPF personnel and the protesters. A few Chandigarh police personnel were attacked by the protesters, leaving them injured. The police also detained a few protesters. Since February 2023, members of the Quami Insaaf Morcha members have been protesting at the entry point to Chandigarh, demanding "justice in the sacrilege of Guru Granth Sahib; besides justice for release of Bandi Sikh (Sikh prisoners) who fought for Sikh community and completed their jail terms". In February 2023, a clash broke out between the Quami Insaaf Morcha protesters and the Chandigarh police that led to the registration of cases against the Morcha activists. Even the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had launched a signature campaign to free the Sikh prisoners. --IANS vg/khz Jaipur, Jan 8 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa on Tuesday presented a 'chadar' at the 813th Urs, commemorating the death anniversary of the revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The gesture was accompanied by prayers for peace and brotherhood across the state. The messages from both the leaders were later read out on the occasion. On behalf of the Rajasthan Chief Minister, BJP Minority Wing State President Hamid Khan Mewati carried the chadar to the dargah. Before he arrived at the revered shrine, Mewati was welcomed at the Circuit House. Speaking at the occasion, he conveyed the Chief Minister's message of fostering Rajasthan's "Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb", emphasising the significance of maintaining communal harmony on the state's sacred soil. Chief Minister Sharma also extended his greetings for the Urs festival and reiterated his commitment to peace and unity. Mewati also said that Chief Minister Sharma stands by the principle of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and works towards uplifting all 36 communities in Rajasthan. Highlighting the CM's achievements over the past year, he added that historic development work has been carried out under the former's leadership. Special prayers were offered at the dargah for the Chief Minister's well-being and continued efforts. Mewati also noted that the Chief Minister's message underlined the importance of preserving peace and brotherhood in the state, which forms an integral part of its Ganga-Jamuna cultural heritage. He also remarked that Chief Minister Sharma has provided a strong response to anti-social elements, further strengthening communal harmony in Rajasthan. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also offered a 'chadar' at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah on Sunday to mark the auspicious occasion of the Urs of the revered Sufi saint. Following the presentation of the 'chadar', Rajnath Singh's message was also read aloud from the Buland Darwaza. A 'chadar' sent by former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje was also presented on Saturday. Earlier on Saturday morning, Union Minority and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju offered a 'chadar' on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and read his message. Commenting on PM Modi presenting the chadar, Syed Naseruddin Chishti, the successor to the Ajmer Dargah Chief and the Chairman of the All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, told IANS, "This tradition, dating back to 1947, has been upheld by every Prime Minister of the country. Since assuming charge in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently sent a chadar as a mark of devotion and respect. This reflects India's deep-rooted culture of honouring all religions, communities, and Sufi saints." Bengaluru, Jan 8 : Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka Assembly and senior BJP leader, R. Ashoka, has described the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led Congress government as a "60 per cent commission government", adding that the Congress is pushing the state towards bankruptcy. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Bengaluru, Ashoka said that Karnataka is heading towards bankruptcy, similar to Himachal Pradesh and Kerala. He alleged that contractors are unable to receive salaries due to the government's inefficiency. Ashoka claimed that while contractors accused the previous BJP government of charging 40 per cent commission, they are now labelling the Congress government as a "60 per cent commission government" and are even applying for euthanasia due to their plight. The BJP leader also alleged that bribes were rampant during the Congress government being in power in the state, with Rs 10 lakh required for allotment of plots measuring 30x40, Rs 20 lakh for plots sized 40x60, and Rs 40 lakh for larger plots. The Congress government reportedly owes contractors Rs 32,000 crore, and to meet these expenses, it is imposing taxes everywhere, Ashoka said. He criticised the state government for failing to utilise budgeted funds. Out of Rs 3.22 lakh crore allocated in the state Budget, only Rs 1.79 lakh crore (55.69 per cent) has been spent so far, leaving 45 per cent to be utilised in the next two months, he said. In schemes such as the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP), out of Rs 28,527.02 crore, only Rs 13,923 crore (48.81 per cent) has been utilised, he added. In Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) out of Rs 11,515.39 crore, only Rs 4,937.59 crore (42.88 per cent) has been spent, he noted. Out of Rs 3,077 crore, only Rs 1,076 crore (34 per cent) has been used in Special Development Projects, Ashoka said. He claimed that no proper utilisation of state funds has been done as promised by the Congress government. Ashoka criticised the Congress government for slashing allocations to key welfare schemes compared to the BJP's budget allocated while it was in power in the state. In Ambedkar Development Corporation (Ganga Kalyana Scheme) the BJP allocated Rs 60 crore in 2022-23, the Congress-led government reduced it to Rs 40 crore, the BJP leader said, while slamming the state government. "In Ambedkar Development Corporation (Self-Employment Scheme) the BJP allocated Rs 100 crore; Congress reduced it to Rs 45 crore. BJP gave Rs 110 crore for the Tanda Development Corporation, Congress slashed it to Rs 60 crore," Ashoka added. "The BJP provided Rs 100 crore for the Veerashaiva-Lingayat Development Corporation. While the Congress reduced it to Rs 60 crore," he said. "BJP allocated Rs 274.68 crore for temples and religious institutions whereas the Congress slashed it to Rs 17.50 crore," Ashoka added while criticising the Congress government. "Towards the maintenance of Hindu burial grounds, the BJP allocated Rs 25 crore; Congress reduced it to Rs 10 crore. For Weavers' Welfare Schemes, the BJP provided Rs 125.77 crore; Congress allocated just Rs 10 crore," the BJP leader highlighted. Ashoka accused the Congress government of pushing the state into darkness due to corruption and financial mismanagement. He also alleged that key aides of Minister Priyank Kharge, some of whom are on the criminals list, have not been arrested yet. Ashoka suspected that they might be under police protection. He also claimed that during his tenure as State Transport Minister, bus depots were built, and revenue was generated through rentals. However, he alleged that the current Congress government has failed to create infrastructure and has burdened BMTC with losses due to its policies. Ashoka urged the Congress government to establish a task force to tackle the spread of new viruses. He emphasised the need for oxygen facilities, audits by officials at district and taluk levels, and immediate preparation. Srinagar, Jan 8 : The Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion, with its stunning display of regional craftsmanship, authentic products and emerging entrepreneurial talent, emerged as one of the most popular and celebrated attractions in the 23rd India International Mega Trade Fair (IIMTF), held at the Science City Grounds in Kolkata from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025, an official statement said on Tuesday. The pavilion, being sponsored by the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), featured 21 dedicated stalls, including contributions from women entrepreneurs, one of whom, an award recipient, showcased live Pashmina weaving at her stall. "This vibrant platform allowed artisans and businesses from Jammu and Kashmir to display their unique products. The exhibition offered a diverse range of high-quality items, including Pashmina Shawls, Sozni embroidered textiles, GI-tagged Kashmiri saffron, dry fruits, hand-embroidered Phiran, and organic food products such as honey, Anardana, and Rajmash from Jammu. These traditional, meticulously crafted products attracted significant attention from the visitors," the statement said. "The pavilion offered visitors the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind items while fostering direct interactions between the artisans and guests. This engagement allowed them to discover the intricate techniques and stories behind each creation, which in turn helped many artisans generate valuable business leads. The immersive experience not only added value to the products but also deepened the appreciation for Jammu and Kashmir's rich artistic heritage." The statement also said the event proved to be a tremendous success, achieving sales of around Rs 1.3 crore and generating more than 1,900 business leads for future orders. "This exceptional response highlights the rising demand for Kashmiri products and underscores the growing recognition of the region's craftsmanship both in domestic and international markets," the statement added. IIMTF 2024 featured more than 1,000 stalls representing exhibitors from 20 Indian states and 15 countries worldwide, and the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion was one of the major attractions for the visitors. JKTPO has successfully participated in prominent events such as the IITF 2024 in Delhi, PITEX in Amritsar, CII Fair in Chandigarh, MSME Expo in New Delhi etc. Besides, JKTPO organised J&K Textile Sourcing Fair 2024, J&K Trade Show 2024 (Summer Edition) and Basmati Fest 2024 to effectively showcase Jammu and Kashmir's economic potential. "In the coming months, the JKTPO will enhance its outreach by participating in major events like MiTEX Mumbai, Surajkund Mela and Bharat Tex 2025. Additionally, it will host the second Agro and Food Fest on January 22, 2025, and the JK Trade Show 2025 (Winter Edition) on January 31, 2025," the statement said. Bhopal, Jan 8 : The Madhya Pradesh government will invest Rs 1,500 crore to double the size of milk production and to increase farmers' income in the next five years, officials said. A proposal in this regard has been approved by the Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday. Briefing about the Cabinet's decision, senior Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya said the Madhya Pradesh State Co-operative Dairy Federation (MPSCDF) will tie up with the National Co-operative Dairy Federation (NCDF). He said the tie-up with NCDF will not only increase the production of milk but also pave the way for increasing the income of farmers in the state. The Minister said farmers will be encouraged to milk production by adopting good quality cows. The farmers will be provided with all facilities to transport their milk and other products to the market, Vijayvargiya added. They will also be encouraged to use organic manure for farming, he said. He added the state government is also starting an academic degree course in dairy technology at Vikram University in Ujjain. In future, this course will also be provided in other universities as per the National Education Policy, 2020, the Minister said. The skilled youths trained in dairy technology will take Madhya Pradesh to the top position in milk production with their strong will and hard work using dairy technology, he added. "Decision is part of future planning to double milk production as well as to increase the farmers' income in the next five years in the state. At present, we have nearly 6,000 dairy co-operative committees in the state, which will be increased up to 9,000 in the next five years," Vijayvargiya said. Meanwhile, he also said the government has decided to make the state's Sanchi milk expand further in the national market with the help of NCDF. "Once the MoU is signed between MPSCDF and NCDF, the government will set up dairy plants in villages. Transportation and branding will be done through private parties," the Minister added. Earlier in September last year, the Madhya Pradesh government gave its consent to hand over the next five years of operations of the State Cooperative Dairy Federation and the milk unions affiliated with it to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). The Opposition Congress, however, resisted the move, claiming that it was Gujarat co-operative dairy Amul's "backdoor" attempts to take over Madhya Pradesh's state-run milk brand Sanchi. The state government, however, maintained that the decision has been taken for the expansion of Sanchi's production and to make it a national brand. Madhya Pradesh ranks third in the country with a nine per cent share in milk production. The average milk production in the state is 673 grams, while the national average is 471 grams. Millions of tourists visit the world's architectural monuments every year. Few people will be surprised by a photo of the Eiffel Tower or the London Clock. ADVERTISIMENT But if you show a photo next to the Chinese Eiffel Tower or the Canadian Big Ben, you will definitely stun your followers. OBOZREVATEL has collected 10 architectural look-alikes that you probably didn't know about. Big Ben is the clock tower of the Palace of Westminster in London. In another part of the world, namely in the Canadian capital of Ottawa, you can see an equally spectacular structure - the Peace Tower, which is part of the Parliament building. The Colosseum is a building of Ancient Rome, which is visited by about 6 million tourists every year. The cost of a standard ticket is 16 euros. However, a similar amphitheater can be found in the Croatian city of Pula. To visit it, you will need to pay only 6 euros. ADVERTISIMENT Tower Bridge has become a world-famous symbol of London, combining a swing and suspension structure at the same time. There is a replica of London Bridge in the Chinese city of Suzhou. The Acropolis is an ancient Greek fortress. There are so many tourists here that it is impossible to take a picture without a crowd. The ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey can compete with the Athens fortress. Here you can see a whole complex of different buildings that will be no less interesting. ADVERTISIMENT You have seen the most famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco in Hollywood movies many times. Its incredible replica 25th April can be found near Lisbon. The U.S. Capitol is always on the list of tourists visiting Washington. A similar structure can be found in Cuba. The Havana Capitol is located in the heart of the city. ADVERTISIMENT Stonehenge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Every year, a million tourists come to see the stone structure. There is an equally mysterious place in the town of Callanish in Scotland. There are no fences here, and you can touch the stones, which are up to 5 thousand years old. Many people have probably heard of the famous ancient city of the Inca Empire - Machu Picchu. Getting to it is a rather difficult task physically, because the village is located at an altitude. A good alternative is the island of Isla del Sol in Bolivia, which is located on the beautiful Lake Titicaca. According to a legend, the Inca Empire was founded in this place. ADVERTISIMENT Each of us has ever dreamed of visiting Venice to enjoy the architectural landscape of the city on the water. To save twice the price, you can go to the French city of Colmar. A huge number of tourists come to the Leaning Tower of Pisa to take a photo in front of it. However, few people know that there is a smaller copy of the Italian gem in Illinois, US. 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 Instagram / Caelynn Miller-Keyes By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 01/07/2025 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. The Bachelor alum Caelynn Miller-Keyes has revealed she and her husband Dean Unglert are "trying to start a family" but conceiving is "harder" than she thought.Caelynn recently posted a YouTube video and shared how she's trying to get pregnant over a year after marrying her love, Dean."We are trying to start a family," Caelynn shared in the upload to her YouTube channel of the couple's plans for 2025."It's on the vision board, which might be weird. I don't know if that's considered a goal because we are actively trying. It's just harder to make a baby than I thought it would be."Caelynn and Dean fell in love on 's sixth season, and they got married in September 2023 in Colorado.After doing quite a bit of traveling, Caelynn revealed that she and Dean are ready to settle down and enjoy home life more -- and that includes trying for Baby No. 1."I know everyone says that, 'No, I'm going to get pregnant so easily.' My mom got pregnant so fast with all of her kids. I was like, 'That's going to be me too,'" Caelynn said.But Caelynn admitted "ovulation is tricky" and she's "still figuring all that out."Caelynn, for instance, had tried to use a fertility tracking device after hearing it worked for her friend after just one month. That "wasn't the case" for Caelynn, however.Dean and Caelynn both changed their last names to Bell in honor of Dean's late mother, Debbie Bell, after they became husband and wife."Dean is so compassionate. He has a way of making everyone feel so special and I really admire that about him," Caelynn gushed to People after exchanging vows."He's taught me a lot in the past four years of us being together. He never says no or he can't do something, he always tries, and almost always succeeds and it's been great to flip my perspective on things and start challenging myself more."Caelynn concluded, "Each year with Dean gets better, so I'm excited to see how we grow as husband and wife. Hopefully kids are in our future as well."Dean surprised his fiancee with a new engagement ring -- her fourth one from Dean -- in Spring 2023 while they were exploring a bamboo forest in Kyoto, Japan.Dean had lost his original 4.5 carat diamond for Caelynn, and so he proposed in October 2022 with a temporary ring featuring a tiny diamond. Caelynn wore a temporary ring with a replica moissanite stone for a while, and then Caelynn's final ring is a real diamond.Dean and Caelynn previously said they plan to have kids of their own as well as adopt.On 's sixth season, which aired in Summer 2019, Dean broke up with Caelynn on her birthday and left the show alone because he didn't think he was ready to provide the commitment that Caelynn wanted.However, Dean returned for Caelynn later on and begged her to give him a second chance, and the pair left Paradise dating each other.Dean proposed marriage to Caelynn in late 2022 following a grueling 22-mile hike to Hawaii's Kauai Island about three years after they had begun dating.Caelynn then popped the question to Dean in December 2022, which made their engagement even more "official." She forced him to conquer his fear of riding horses since he had pushed her out of her comfort zone with that brutal Hawaiian hike.Caelynn and Dean -- who had admitted he'd prefer to just get married in a low-key courthouse ceremony -- initially planned to elope in Italy but then they realized Colorado would be a better wedding destination because all of their friends would be able to attend.Once Dean got "the van life" out of his system, he and Caelynn moved into a home together in Las Vegas in Spring 2021. Caelynn and Dean later relocated to Denver, CO.Back in June 2022, Dean revealed on his podcast that he had made a deal with Caelynn about getting engaged."I made a deal with [Caelynn]. I was like, 'I'll buy you a ring if you buy me a truck,'" Dean said, which sparked criticism from some fans that Dean didn't treat Caelynn very well.Dean also admitted at the time how he had thrown a "hissy fit" upon seeing the 4.5 karat ring Caelynn was hoping to have on her finger one day and the pair got into "a scuffle."Dean said getting engaged was simply "a touchy subject" in his relationship, adding, "Caelynn makes significantly more money than I do and here I am having to spend all this money on something I don't even want. Like, I want her to get what she wants, but she's the one who wants to get married."But then Caelynn came through and bought Dean a truck in August 2022.Back in April 2022, Caelynn recalled her reaction to Dean's request that she propose marriage to him."When Dean first said that, I thought, 'Okay, [it's] another thing Dean is saying to break the mold.' Sometimes he says things just for a reaction, and he'll admit that. I thought that's kind of what he was doing," Caelynn explained in a Q&A on YouTube."But the more I thought about it, the more I loved it, because traditionally, he would propose to me. That's something I've dreamt of for so long, and that's something that he doesn't get -- a day that's catered to him and this special moment where he's really thought of. That's when I was like, 'Oh my gosh, I love this.'"Caelynn pointed out how she and Dean have "a partnership" and so they both deserved to have a proposal day. She therefore got "really really into" the idea.Dean and Caelynn have been wearing wedding bands since 2020 to show they are committed to each other. Caelynn told Us Weekly in 2022 that it "really frustrates" her when fans assume Dean isn't good to her."He is hilarious and he's very sarcastic and he's also the most romantic person I think I've ever met. He's so thoughtful," Caelynn boasted at the time."So I think that's a big misconception -- that I'm, like, more invested in the relationship or he, like, doesn't treat me right. I'm like, 'No, he treats me exceptionally well and he's always going out of his way to just surprise me and do romantic things.'"Prior to meeting on Paradise, Caelynn competed for Colton Underwood 's heart on The Bachelor's 23rd season, and Dean had been on multiple The Bachelor spinoffs after initially appearing on Rachel Lindsay 's season of The Bachelorette.Dean previously gushed to Us his relationship with Caelynn is "monumentally different" from other women he's dated in the past. Dean was previously linked to Kristina Schulman Danielle Lombard and Lesley Murphy from The Bachelor world alone."She's very intelligent and compassionate. I am able to be myself around her and she's able to be herself and that's how we create synergy and build around each other," Dean explained of Caelynn."For the first time in my Bachelor franchise relationship history, I feel like I'm able to say what I want, do what I want, and allow my partner to build with me while I'm doing that."Dean, however, believed in late 2019 that marriage was "never going to happen" for them."She does joke around about us getting married all the time, and I always say, 'Sorry, it's not going to happen.' I don't know, I'm super unconventional and she obviously is a little more conventional," Dean told the magazine at the time."We joke around about it. Just try to keep expectations to a minimum, you know? Like I said on the show, underpromise, overdeliver."Interested in more The Bachelor news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group Universal Pictures teases Christopher Abbott's "horrifying" new look in a Wolf Man featurette released Monday. The film opens Jan. 17 in theaters. ADVERTISEMENT In the video, director Leigh Whannell and makeup effects designer Arjen Tuiten discuss their approach to designing the film's werewolf. The pair envisioned "something very different," rather than repeating the iconic werewolves created by Rick Baker in An American Werewolf in London and Jack Pierce, who designed Lon Chaney's Wolf Man. Abbott plays Blake, a man who begins to transform after a wolf bite. Behind-the-scenes footage shows a glimpse of his furry back and closeups of arms and legs, but not the entirety of Blake's transformation. Whannell said he took more inspiration from horror movies about creatures than werewolves. "I was really inspired by movies like John Carpenter's The Thing, David Cronenberg's The Fly," Whannell says. Tuiten described his Wolf Man as "two anatomies trying to mix that don't quite go together, and it's a painful one at that." Julia Garner and Matilda Firth play Blake's wife and daughter, respectively. Whannell previously wrote and directed Universal and Blumhouse's The Invisible Man remake. Sunny Japan puzzles European tourists with its eccentricity. After all, specific food, strange clothes, and odd traditions are radically different. ADVERTISIMENT OBOZREVATEL has collected 10 everyday features of life in Japan. Some habits annoy even the locals. It is forbidden to walk or talk loudly in an apartment building Neighbors report to the police if there are loud noises in the apartment. In Japan, small houses are built without soundproofing, so you need to keep the house quiet. People can complain even if you just close the closet or take out the dishes. Loud advertising on the streets interferes with sleep ADVERTISIMENT Advertising using loudspeakers on cars runs around the clock. People drive around residential areas and advertise what they want. The Japanese do not like such loud advertising, but the police ignore citizens' complaints. Many apartments have no heating There is no central heating in Japan because houses are often destroyed during earthquakes. Only wealthy residents install heating boilers. The Japanese use heaters, warm blankets, and heated bedding. Lovers meet only a few times a month ADVERTISIMENT In Japan, it is considered okay for lovers to meet 1-2 times a month. It is not customary in the country to court women, give them flowers, or pay in a restaurant. Also, couples do not show their feelings in public and do not give each other compliments. Many young people are reclusive and live alone Hikikomori are people who have isolated themselves from society by choice. They live with their families in a separate room, and have food and all the necessary things delivered to them. Some do not see people at all for years. Local stores have very intrusive consultants ADVERTISIMENT Tourists complain that Japanese clothing stores have annoying sales assistants. They follow a potential buyer and try to sell the item. If a person buys something, the employee will thank them several times and walk the customer to the exit. You have to buy souvenirs in every city The Japanese will be surprised if a tourist refuses to buy souvenirs. In Japan, there is a tradition that you need to bring something back from every trip. Omiyage is a small soft handmade toy. It is most often bought as a gift for relatives. Bookstores sell strange children's literature ADVERTISIMENT The Japanese do not consider the toilet topic to be embarrassing even at the table. Children need to know how to go to the toilet properly, so authors love to cover this in books with illustrations. Influencers promote artificial beauty standards Most Japanese people love natural beauty, rarely wearing bright makeup or revealing clothes. However, there are women who try to turn themselves into dolls. This subculture is called gyaru. The reshaped faces and unnatural appearance annoy ordinary women. Locals purposely try to befriend foreigners In Japan, it is fashionable to have a foreign friend because it is interesting to learn stories from different countries and to improve your English. With 2025 in full swing and hustle and bustle returning to Athens, the signs can each expect something different in this new and exciting time. Here is your weekly horoscope to navigate through the first full week of the new year. 'Without his vision and foresight, his willingness to take a risk that no one else was willing to take, his deep and abiding love for India, the Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse that it has become.' IMAGE: Then Suzuki Motor Corp chairman and CEO Osamu Suzuki speaks at the unveiling ceremony of the Suzuki Vitara at Suzuki Motor Corp's plant in Esztergom, March 5, 2015. Photograph: Bernadett Szabo/Reuters In April 1982, when Osamu Suzuki, then president of the Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian government company Maruti Udyog Limited to manufacture an 800 cc car (which later became the iconic Maruti 800), a carry van, and a pick-up truck, even the Japanese embassy in Delhi was reportedly not in favour of the deal. IMAGE: The Maruti 800. Photograph: Wikimedia Commons 'Generally, Japanese companies invested in foreign companies after they saw successful investments being made by bigger Japanese firms. SMC, at that time, was hardly a leader. India's political closeness to the erstwhile USSR and the strong socialist thinking in industrial policy were contrary to Japanese beliefs,' Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) Chairman R C Bhargava wrote in his 2010 book The Maruti Story, which he wrote along with senior journalist Seetha. Bhargava, then an IAS officer working at Maruti, had met Suzuki for the first time just a month before the MoU was signed. IMAGE: A 2022 photograph of Prime Minister Narendra D Modi with Suzuki Motor Corp's former chairman Osamu Suzuki at an event to commemorate 40 years of Suzuki in India. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters 'Normally, the Japanese conduct their own market survey before making any major investment decision. No such exercise had been undertaken by SMC,' Bhargava recalled. 'The giants of the Japanese automobile industry, like Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Honda, were not in India. Being a minority partner in a government company was itself seen as a recipe for disaster,' Bhargava added. The embassy of Japan in India was 'understood to disfavour' the project. 'Suzuki took the decision to enter India in less than two months after the first meeting -- surely an all-time record. Not surprisingly, the reaction in Japan was less than positive. Business circles were sure the venture would fail and SMC would withdraw in a few years,' Bhargava said. However, about a year-and-a-half later, the Maruti 800 was launched, changing the automobile landscape of India forever. The car was an instant hit. IMAGE: Then Suzuki chairman and CEO Osamu Suzuki, wearing a traditional tikka, checks the site map during his visit to the site of the proposed Maruti Suzuki plant at Hansalpur village in Gujarat. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters In the first year of production, about 850 units of the Maruti 800 were sold when the overall passenger vehicle sales in the country stood at about 40,000 units. Last financial year, MSIL produced a total of 2.135 million vehicles and earned revenues of Rs 1.35 billion. Today, MSIL is India's largest carmaker with more than 40 per cent market share by volume. Suzuki was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2007 by the Indian government for his contribution to developing the country's economy through the automobile sector. IMAGE: Suzuki Motor Chairman and CEO Osamu Suzuki speaks to reporters at the unveiling of the company's Alto Lapin in Tokyo, November 26, 2008. Photograph: Issei Kato/Reuters Bhargava, 90, on Friday said: "I have lost someone who was closer than a brother to me. He changed my life and showed how nationality is no barrier to people building unbreakable bonds of trust in each other. He was my teacher, mentor and a person who stood by me even in my darkest days. "If I played a role in the success of Maruti, it was because I was his student and he had taught me how best to grow a company and make it competitive." "Without his vision and foresight, his willingness to take a risk that no one else was willing to take, his deep and abiding love for India, and his immense capabilities as a teacher, I believe the Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse that it has become," Bhargava added. "Millions of us in this country are living better lives because of Osamu San." While Maruti held the top spot for four decades, the Ambassador was the best-selling car in post-Independence India for three decades. Photograph: Rajesh Karkera/ Rediff.com IMAGE: The Tata Punch. For the first time in four decades, a non-Maruti Suzuki India car has topped the list of India's best-selling cars. In 2024, the Tata Punch, a sub-compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), became the highest-selling vehicle by delivering 202,030 units. This marks a clear shift in consumer preference towards premium features, driving the rise of SUVs in the domestic car market. The SUV market in India has grown rapidly in recent years, with its share of the passenger vehicle (PV) market increasing from 32 per cent in 2021 to over 50 per cent in 2024. In fact, three of the top five best-selling cars in 2024 were SUVs. The Maruti Brezza ranked fourth with 188,160 units, and the Hyundai Creta ranked fifth with 186,919 units. The WagonR retained its position among the top five cars, coming in a close second with 190,091 units. Deven Choksey, managing director, DRChoksey Finserv, a wealth management company, said the premiumisation trend will continue to dominate in 2025. "For Tata Motors, 2024 was the fourth consecutive year of record annual sales with 565,000 units sold," said Shailesh Chandra, MD of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility. "We registered strong growth in our SUV portfolio with successful product introductions built on our proven multi-powertrain strategy. SUV volumes grew by 19 per cent, with the Punch selling over 200,000 units, making it the highest-selling car model in India in 2024." Maruti has also lost market share in recent years, dropping from 52 per cent in 2018 (when 3.3 million PVs were sold domestically) to 41 per cent in 2024 (4.28 million units of PVs sold). While Maruti held the top spot for four decades, earlier, Hindustan Motors' Ambassador was the best-selling car in post-Independence India for three decades. Maruti overtook the Ambassador in the mid-1980s with the Maruti 800. The Maruti 800 was succeeded by the Alto, followed by other Maruti cars like the WagonR, Swift, Dzire, etc, in subsequent years. Indian consumers have increasingly favoured cars with premium features, such as sunroofs and automatic transmissions. For some original equipment manufacturers, the penetration of SUVs in overall sales is as high as 68 per cent. Tarun Garg, whole-time director and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), recently said that SUVs currently contribute 68 per cent of HMIL's overall domestic volumes, higher than the industry average of 54 per cent. 2024 highest selling cars Tata Punch: 202,030 units Maruti Wagon R: 190, 855 units Maruti Ertiga: 190,091 units Maruti Brezza: 188,160 units Hyundai Creta: 186,919 units Source: DRChoksey FinServ Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com The Galwan clash occurred six months after the Doklam disengagement and two high-profile meetings. India should not be caught by surprise once again, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi meets Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, October 23, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met formally on October 23, 2024 after a gap of five years in Russia's Kazan, on the margins of the Brics+ meeting hosted by President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Brics is a grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, which has recently expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. It is, therefore, a unique assemblage of several major emerging economies and representative of the Global South. This geopolitical context is important. The value of Brics as a leading group of the Global South would diminish if its two most consequential countries--India and China -- were not on talking terms. We have seen this story before. Relations between the two countries plummeted after an ugly standoff between their troops at the strategically important but contested tri-junction of the borders of India, Bhutan, and China at Doklam in June 2017. This was resolved a couple of weeks later, clearing the decks for Mr Modi's visit to China for the annual Brics summit. In the present case, an announcement was made by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on October 21 that 'agreement has been arrived at on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas, leading to disengagement and a resolution of the issues that had arisen in these areas in 2020.' Misri claimed that the disengagement process with China had been completed. This was confirmed by the Chinese side. It is now learnt that the latest agreement relates only to Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh, where Indian troops were being prevented from accessing patrolling points they had been regularly visiting over the years. The other points of contention in eastern Ladakh had already been dealt with by creating buffer zones between the troops deployed by the two sides, into which neither side would intrude. These remain in place. So it would not be true to say that the situation prevailing before the clash at Galwan in April 2020 has been restored. Enough was achieved in reducing the ongoing confrontation at the LAC in eastern Ladakh to enable the summit to take place and this is undoubtedly an important development. But it should not be over-interpreted. It is a positive nudge to the relationship and not yet a significant shift. The Doklam disengagement proved to be a tactical manoeuvre by China, despite being followed by two highly publicised 'informal summits' between the two leaders, one in Wuhan in China in April 2018 and the other in Mamallapuram in India in October 2019, barely six months before the clash in Galwan in eastern Ladakh. India must not lower its guard. It should heighten its vigilance so as not to be caught by surprise once again. The readout on the summit by the Indian and Chinese sides respectively point to sharp differences in their world views. While both countries talk about promoting multipolarity in the international order, India has reiterated that multipolarity in Asia must go hand in hand with global multipolarity. The Chinese readout omits that reference. This goes to the heart of the political dissonance between them. China has a hierarchical view of power and envisages an Asian order dominated by it. India does not accept this and is unlikely to do so in future. Mr Xi said that 'development is currently the greatest common denominator between China and India.' This implies that economic and commercial relations between them should outweigh all other aspects of their relationship. Implicit in this is the expectation that the restrictive Indian approach to China trade and investment must give way to positive encouragement instead. Mr Xi has cleverly tapped into a strain of thinking among India's leading corporate entities and some sections of the government's economic establishment, that see limits on China trade and investment as inimical to India's own development trajectory. There is a demand for a re-look at Press Note 3, which subjects China-related investment proposals to strict scrutiny, particularly from the security angle. With China one cannot divorce the political and security dimensions from the economic and commercial relationship. China consciously follows a strategy of asymmetric interdependence. Mr Xi has explicitly declared that China should make its economic partners more dependent on itself, while progressively reducing its own dependence on them. This is already apparent in India-China relations despite the limits imposed by the Indian government. Our industry depends on Chinese intermediates for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals. Chinese components have become indispensable for our electronics industry. For major infrastructure projects, such as ports, our companies wish to source cheaper Chinese equipment. Even if this over-reliance cannot be changed overnight, there needs to be a conscious plan for diversification and indigenisation in critical products over the next five or 10 years. To insist that there is no alternative is making the country vulnerable to external pressure. National security does not come cheap. The prospect of improved India-China relations must be welcomed. In the high-level official interactions to follow, the objective must be to de-escalate, to dismantle permanent structures close to the LAC and for troops to return to their bases. Overall relations must remain in step with the improvement in the security domain. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com A team of Navy, Army, National Disaster Response Force and State Disaster Response Force personnel intensified their efforts to rescue the nine workers, trapped inside a mine in the Assam Coal Quarry in Dima Hasao for the second day on Tuesday. IMAGE: Army personnel conduct a rescue operation after the labourers got trapped in the Umrangso coal mine, in Dima Hasaoy, Assam, January 7, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the mine "appears to be illegal", and that the police have arrested one person in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, Dima Hasao SP Mayank Kumar Jha denied some media reports that claimed three of the trapped workers were feared dead . He said no bodies have yet been found and operations were underway to rescue the miners. The labourers were on Monday trapped inside the coal mine situated in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso, after a sudden gush of water flooded the site. According to employees of the quarry, there were around 15 workers inside the mine, though the authorities did not confirm the number. Sarma said he has spoken to Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy, who has assured him that a team from Coal India will join the rescue operations from Wednesday. He said navy divers have been requisitioned to assist local authorities in rescuing the labourers, as the water level inside the quarry has risen to nearly 100 feet. The divers flew in from Visakhapatnam and conducted a recce, before entering the quarry. The divers reached the surface, but could not find any person or bodies except for a few shoes and sandals. It is, therefore, presumed that the labourers could have entered the tunnels inside the quarry, the CM said. Special director general of police Harmeet Singh, who is supervising the rescue operations at the site, told reporters that specialised divers from the Navy, Army, NDRF and SDRF are alternately going inside the quarry to conduct rescue operations, but no one has been spotted so far. "The navy personnel have deep diving equipment with them and we have requisitioned more equipment to help in the operations," Singh said. "The quarry is about 340 feet deep and we are primarily concentrating on rescuing the workers on the directions of the chief minister, who is personally monitoring the entire operation," he said. The joint rescue efforts will continue throughout the night along with the dewatering of the mine, Singh said. Sarma had earlier in the day said a person has been arrested after the workers were trapped inside the coal mine, which "appears to be illegal". He also said a case was registered in connection with the incident. 'The police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS, r/w Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to investigate the incident. Prima facie, it appears to be an illegal mine. "One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case," the chief minister had posted on X. Rescue operations have been continuing since Monday, but no worker has been brought out of the quarry so far, a district official said. From the NDRF, a 35-member team, led by Commandant HPS Kandari, is conducting rescue operations at the site, he said. Army personnel have been engaged to rescue the labourers and a relief task force comprising specialists such as divers and sappers, equipped with essential tools, reached the site in Umrangso, a defence spokesperson said. The rescue task force of the Army and Assam Rifles, comprising divers and engineers, have made two diving attempts inside the mine, he said. Engineers of the Indian Army are currently assisting the civil administration in removing water from the mine, and have also made provision of adequate lighting to illuminate the site enabling continuance of operations at night, the spokesperson added. Sarma thanked the Army for extending their help in the rescue operations. "Much gratitude for this quick response. We are deploying all possible efforts to ensure the safe return of our miners," he said. The chief minister also listed the names of the trapped labourers Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. Eyewitness accounts and initial assessments suggest that the flooding occurred unexpectedly, leaving the workers unable to escape from the mine. The Bharatiya Janata Party is making all-out attempts to come back to power in Delhi after over 26 years by focussing on its slogan Parivartan (change) and a targeted campaign against the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party over corruption allegations. IMAGE: AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal hands over a ceremonial 'Chadar' to be offered at Ajmer Sharif Dargah on the occasion of 813th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, in New Delhi, January 7, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The Bharatiya Janata Party was in power in Delhi the last time between December 2, 1993 and December 3, 1998, a period during which the national capital saw three chief ministers -- Madan Lal Khurana, Sahib Singh Verma and Sushma Swaraj. Polling for all 70 assembly seats in Delhi will be held on February 5 and the votes will be counted on February 8, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday. The Delhi assembly polls are poised to witness a thrilling triangular contest among the ruling Aam Aadmi Party, a resurgent BJP and the Congress, which seeks to reclaim its lost footing in the national capital. AAP has already announced all its candidates, with party convener Kejriwal contesting from the New Delhi seat, which he has held since 2013, and Chief Minister Atishi seeking re-election from the Kalkaji seat. The Congress has so far announced 48 candidates, while the BJP has declared only 29 candidates. The New Delhi constituency is set for an interesting electoral battle featuring Kejriwal and the sons of two former Delhi chief ministers. BJP candidate on the seat Parvesh Verma is the son of former chief minister Sahib Singh Verma, while Congress' Sandeep Dikshit is the son of three-time former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit. The BJP leaders believe the party has "best chances" ever of staging a comeback after being out of power since 1998, banking on factors like dent in former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal's image under a barrage of corruption charges like "Sheesh Mahal" and "liquor scam", and anti-incumbency against AAP. Seeking to retain power, AAP considers the elections "tough" this time. However, party leaders said the "credibility" of Kejriwal to deliver on his promises coupled with poll announcements like monthly honorarium of Rs 2,100 for eligible women in Delhi will ensure the party's victory. The AAP supremo earlier on the day launched the party's poll campaign song "Phir layenge Kejriwal...", asserting that the people of Delhi will express their faith in the politics of work pursued by his party instead of the "abusive politics" of the BJP. The BJP has been busy with sustained attacks on Kejriwal, accusing him of corruption, and raising "failures" of AAP government in Delhi for the past 10 years in providing clean drinking water, good roads, buses, clean air to breath, proper health and educational facilities. The two parties have also been indulging in a blame game over deletion and addition of voters' names across the constituencies. The AAP leaders have alleged the BJP of filing bulk applications for deletion of the votes of thousands of AAP supporters in various constituencies including New Delhi which is represented by Kejriwal. The BJP on the other hand has accused AAP of helping illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants in Delhi with documents and using them as vote bank. Amid an intense attack and counter attack involving AAP and BJP, the Congress is trying to expand its electoral space in Delhi. The party which ruled Delhi from 1998 to 2013, has been in political wilderness in the last over one decade. With a renewed vigour, the Congress has fielded its "best candidates" so far on the 48 seats in Delhi, including city unit president Devender Yadav from Samay Badli, Sandeep Dikshit from New Delhi, Mahila Congress national president Alka Lamba from Kalkaji, Ragini Nayak from Wazirpur and Abhishek Dutt from Kasturba Nagar. The party has also tried to match AAP's announcement spree, by coming up with its own "Pyaari Didi" scheme promising Rs 2,500 per month for women in Delhi if elected to power. The 29 candidates announced by the BJP include experienced leaders. The party has fielded several prominent "outsiders" who recently joined the party, namely former Delhi Congress president Arvinder Singh Lovely from Gandhi Nagar, former AAP minister Raj Kumar Chauhan from Mangolpuri, former transport minister in AAP government Kailash Gahlot from Bijwasan and former AAP minister Raaj Kumar Anand from Patel Nagar. The BJP's former South Delhi MP Ramesh Bidhuri, contesting from Kalkaji seat against the Delhi chief minister, has already courted controversy over his remarks against Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Atishi. AAP, formed in 2012, emerged on the political map of Delhi with a significant electoral performance in the 2013 assembly polls winning 28 seats of the total 70 and a vote share of 29.5 per cent. The BJP won 32 seats and Congress 8 seats, with vote percentage of 32.3 and 24.6 respectively. The era of AAP's political dominance began with a massive mandate won by it with a whopping 54.3 percent vote share. The party in a landslide victory won 67 of the 70 assembly seats. The BJP scraped through 3 seats while the Congress drew a blank, having a vote percentage of 32.2 and 9.7, respectively. A more or less similar performance was repeated in the 2020 polls, with the BJP managing to improve its seat tally to 8 and a vote share of 39 percent. AAP won 62 seats with 53.6 percent vote share, while the Congress again failed to win any seat and its vote percentage halved to 4.3 percent. 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. Image used for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo Many investors claimed they had invested their life savings in the company's schemes which promised them substantial returns over a decade. Protests erupted when several investors found the company's offices in Dadar, Mumbai, and Bhayandar in Thane district locked. A showroom of the firm in Mira Bhayandar area was also found shut since morning. Navi Mumbai police personnel reached the spot and dispersed the crowd. A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court will on January 9 consider the pleas seeking review of its October 2023 verdict declining legal sanction to same-sex marriage. IMAGE: Students holding placards protest against the Supreme Court's verdict on same-sex marriage, in New Delhi, October 18, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai, Surya Kant, BV Nagarathna, PS Narasimha and Justice Dipankar Datta will take up about 13 petitions related to the matter in chambers. According to practice, the review pleas are considered in chambers by judges. The top court had refused to allow an open-court hearing on the review pleas. The new bench was constituted after Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the present CJI, recused from hearing the review petitions on July 10, 2024. Notably, Justice PS Narasimha is the only member of the original Constitution bench comprising five judges which delivered the verdict, as former CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices SK Kaul, Ravindra Bhat, and Hima Kohli have retired. According to the Supreme Court's causelist, the review petitions would be considered at around 1.55 pm on January 9. A five-judge Constitution bench led by then CJI Chandrachud on October 17, 2024, refused to accord legal backing to same-sex marriages and held there was "no unqualified right" to marriage with the exception of those recognised by law. The apex court, however, made a strong pitch for the rights of LGBTQIA++ persons so they didn't face discrimination in accessing goods and services available to others; safe houses known as "garima greh" in all districts for shelter to members of the community facing harassment and violence, and dedicated hotlines in case of trouble. In its judgement, the bench held transpersons in heterosexual relationships had the freedom and entitlement to marry under the existing statutory provisions. It said an entitlement to legal recognition of the right to union, akin to marriage or civil union, or conferring legal status to the relationship could be only done through an "enacted law". The five-judge Constitution bench delivered four separate verdicts on a batch of 21 petitions seeking legal sanction for same-sex marriages. All five judges were unanimous in refusing the legal recognition to same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act and observed it was within Parliament's ambit to change the law for validating such a union. While former CJI Chandrachud wrote a separate 247-page verdict, Justice Kaul penned a 17-page judgement where he broadly agreed with the former's views. Justice Bhat, who authored an 89-page judgement for himself and Justice Kohli, disagreed with certain conclusions arrived at by the former CJI including on applicability of adoption rules for such couples. Justice Narasimha in his 13-page verdict was in complete agreement with the reasoning and conclusion of Justice Bhat. The judges were unanimous in holding that queerness was a natural phenomenon and not an "urban or elite" notion. In his judgement, the former CJI recorded solicitor general Tushar Mehta's assurance of forming a committee chaired by the cabinet secretary to define and elucidate the scope of entitlements of such couples in a union. The LGBTQIA++ rights activists, who won a major legal battle in 2018 in the Supreme Court, which decriminalised consensual gay sex, moved the apex court seeking validation of same-sex marriages and consequential reliefs such as rights to adoption, enrolment as parents in schools, opening of bank accounts and availing succession and insurance benefits. Some of the petitioners sought the apex court to use its plenary power besides the "prestige and moral authority" to push the society to acknowledge such a union and ensure LGBTQIA++ persons led a "dignified" life like heterosexuals. Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar escaped unhurt after crashing his car during a practice session for the upcoming Dubai 24 Hours race. IMAGE: Tamil superstar Ajith Kumar (third from right) and his wife Shalini arrive at a polling booth to cast their vote for the Tamil Nadu assembly election, in Chennai, April 6, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo The official Instagram page of Ajith Kumar Racing shared a video of the incident. In the short clip, Ajiths car is seen crashing into the barriers at high speed. In the next shot, the actor is seen getting out of the vehicle, seemingly without any injury. Ajith Kumars massive crash in practice, but he walks away unscathed. Another day in the office thats racing! read the caption. Held annually at the Dubai Autodrome, the racing event features high-performance GT and touring cars competing in a gruelling 24-hour format that tests speed, strategy, and endurance. Suresh Chandra, Ajiths manager, said all the drivers on the team had been practicing long driving sessions of around four hours each. During the last leg of his session, Ajith encountered a turn with limited visibility, leading to a slight shift in control and a spin-off crash, he added. The car was broken, but nothing happened to him. The ambulance rushed to the spot, and he walked away from the car. He was taken to the nearest grid, and a full examination was done... All results came immediately, nothing to worry about. He was lucky because there was nobody behind him. If there was a car behind, things would have been ugly, Chandra told PTI. The crash, however, had an impact on the teams preparation for the race, he said. We have two cars for the race, one is now broken. The team is at a disadvantage. We just had a meeting and it is decided that Ajith will be in the pit helping the team and will race only if necessary. Ajith is keen that the team should continue no matter what, Chandra said. Besides his racing endeavours, Ajith is awaiting the release of his next two feature films Vidaamuyarchi and Good Bad Ugly. There are places on the planet that make your blood run cold. Some locations are kept in complete secrecy, but that's exactly what attracts tourists. ADVERTISIMENT OBOZREVATEL has collected the most mystical places in the world that every thrill-seeker dreams of visiting. Lake of Skeletons - India In 1942, a terrible discovery was made in an Indian lake, namely 500 skeletons. Witnesses believe that the remains belong to Japanese soldiers who were killed by the British. Scientists found out that the skeletons were there in 850 AD. They managed to survive in good condition due to the thin air and low temperature. The study of the archaeological phenomenon has been going on for decades. Some scientists believe that people died because of a huge hailstorm. Deep cracks were found on the skulls, meaning that the blows were inflicted from above. ADVERTISIMENT Area 51 - USA The US government has always denied rumors about Area 51. It is currently the most secretive military base on the planet, located 135 kilometers from the city of Las Vegas. It is used to test new military developments. Some believe that the facility is located on the site of an alien ship crash, which is why it is so closely guarded. This mystery gave rise to many theories about aliens. Residents of the United States even wanted to storm the base and find out why the authorities were hiding this object. Many curious tourists tried to get there, but nothing worked out. Chillingham Castle - England ADVERTISIMENT Chillingham Castle is the oldest "haunted house" in the world. The negative energy here arose due to the fact that captured Englishmen were tortured in the dungeons. The rooms with the remains of prisoners and an eerie atmosphere prevail on the territory of Chillingham Castle. It is considered one of the most terrifying and mysterious architectural structures in the world. It is said that the presence of tortured people is felt here, and at night you can hear death cries. Catacombs - Czech Republic There are passages in Jihlava, Czech Republic, that were dug in the Middle Ages. The underground corridors are 25 kilometers long and run 12 meters deep. ADVERTISIMENT At night, organ music can be heard here. Scientists did not believe it until they sent an expedition. Later, they found out that the organ does sound here. Thus, the catacombs seem to hide secrets that science cannot solve. Psychologists then assessed the members of the expedition, but no abnormalities were found. Aokigahara Forest - Japan 100 lifeless bodies are found in the Aokigahara Forest, the second place in the world in terms of suicides, every year. There are legends that demons live in the forest. The police have even set up signs, "Life is a precious gift from your parents" and "Consult the police before you die!" When the foresters find a corpse, they have to take it to the local station themselves. Tourists also often come here. Vermont Fish and Wildlife staff are urging visitors to stop by their exhibit and attend their seminars at the Yankee Sportsmans Classic show January 17-19 in Essex. Lavadus Williams, 19, of Saxtons River, was arraigned on Friday, June 21, 2024, in Windham Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Brattleboro, on second-degree murder charges in the stabbing death of another man on the sidewalk in front of the Brattleboro Transportation Center on June 20. 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 Christmas attributes have remained unchanged for years: a Christmas tree, cocoa, and all the parts of the cult movie Home Alone. Nothing adds to the Christmas mood like the adventures of Kevin, who defends his home from burglars. OBOZREVATEL reveals the famous locations where the comedy was filmed. ADVERTISIMENT The McCallister house Most of the scenes of the first part of the movie took place in a rented house in the village of Winnetka, Illinois. It wasn't even remodeled much. The whole design was what the real owners of the house saw daily. However, the tree house had to be made from scratch. It was immediately dismantled at the end of the filming process. After the successful premiere of the comedy, the cost of the building more than tripled, and the demand for it increased dramatically. Everyone wanted to live there, and hundreds of tourists came to take photos. O'Hare International Airport According to the story, Kevin's mother had a long journey home from Paris. Since it is almost impossible to find free seats on an airplane during the holidays, she spent a lot of time waiting for flights. Nevertheless, the filmmakers decided to shoot all the scenes at the Illinois airport. They just changed locations and angles, faking that Kate McCallister was in different parts of the world. ADVERTISIMENT LaGuardia Airport In the second part of the comedy, Kevin gets lost in one of the most luxurious airports in New York - LaGuardia. Outside, he sees a breathtaking view of the metropolis' skyscrapers, so he immediately decides to stay. By the way, at the time of filming, the annual traffic here was more than 20 million people. And the most popular destination was the McCallisters' hometown of Chicago. Queensboro Bridge This is the first thing the hero of the movie saw in New York. The magnificent bridge connects two wealthy boroughs of the city - Queens and Manhattan. Its total length is 2,270 meters. And for its cantilevered design and unusual arches, it has rightfully taken its place among the most beautiful locations in the United States. ADVERTISIMENT Twin Towers Home Alone 2 was released in 1992, so in this movie you can still see the tragically famous Twin Towers. It was here - in the World Trade Center building - that Kevin came to admire the city of his dreams from the top observation deck. Unfortunately, after the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, all the buildings of the complex were completely or partially destroyed and later demolished. The new One World Trade Center has been operating here since 2014. ADVERTISIMENT The Plaza Hotel This is the place where the current president of America, then a businessman and owner of this hotel, Donald Trump, made his first appearance. By the way, it was not just a coincidence, but the requirement of the millionaire. Otherwise, he would not have given permission to shoot there. And it is almost impossible to find an alternative for such a luxurious hotel. Moreover, even then, Plaza was synonymous with wealth and success. Central Park It was impossible to make a movie about Kevin's adventures in New York and not include Central Park. Its huge territory is familiar to all tourists, because this place invariably attracts with its beauty. The city's main Christmas tree Traditionally, the most popular New Year's location in the American metropolis is the square in front of Rockefeller Center. The Christmas tree looks incredible here, as dozens of designers work on its installation, selecting unique Christmas decorations. Thus, the scene of Kevin's reunion with his mother looked especially magical. A drone closes in on a column of tanks as they advance across a snow-covered field, footage released by Russia's National Guard and geolocated by RFE/RL shows. The attack took place southwest of the village of Berdin, in Russia's Kursk region, where Ukraine launched a new offensive on January 5. RFE/RL has also verified Russian drone footage of Ukrainian armored vehicles nearby. Ukrainian forces launched a surprise offensive in Kursk in August, seizing chunks of territory. They have since resisted Russian attempts to fully expel them. Official Russian sources have claimed to have stopped the new Ukrainian offensive. On January 6, the Defense Ministry stated it had destroyed Ukrainian tanks around the village of Berdin and foiled an attempt at a breakthrough. Russian pro-war blogs also reported from the area. The MIG Rossyy Telegram channel said Ukrainian forces were moving around Berdin but not attacking it. It said Ukrainian forces were using armored personnel carriers to move infantry into the area. Satellite imagery from January 5 revealed the area to be pockmarked with craters that were not there three days earlier. Another Russian military blog, exilenova_plus, posted a video of a Russian soldier in the region saying the situation was "complicated." Clashes were also reported in several other locations in Kursk, including the villages of Tyotkino, Leonidovo, and Pushkarnoye. This has prompted speculation that the movements around Berdin were a feint attack -- designed to draw Russian forces in from elsewhere on the front. The commander of a Chechen unit operating with Russian forces in Kursk, Major General Apti Alaudinov, posted a video saying, "We are registering a concentration of enemy [Ukrainian] equipment in another direction." In any case, the scale of the Ukrainian operation so far may suggest it has tactical rather than strategic objectives. "The local target is to capture the town of Bolshoye Soldatskoye... to complicate Russian logistics," military analyst Yan Matveyev told Current Time. Israeli military expert David Gendelman told RFE/RL it was still unclear what the main thrust of the attack would be. But he said the intention may be to secure Ukraine's foothold in Russia. "If there's been a political directive to hold on to that foothold, an additional attack makes sense," he added. "Combat action is always a way to implement a political decision." While the location of the fighting can be pinned down, the course of the battle is harder to gauge. One Ukrainian military blogger reported "panic" along the Russian lines and said North Korean units fighting for Moscow had also been encountered. Russian pro-war blog Rybar said some Ukrainian military vehicles entered Berdin at one point in the fighting. Various Russian blogs reported Russian attacks destroying columns of Ukrainian armor elsewhere in Kursk. The Ukrainian General Staff issued a statement on January 6, saying, "In Kursk region, Ukrainian defenders repelled 17 attacks by [Russians], 45 more battles continue." RFE/RL could not verify the battlefield claims. Ukrainian military analyst Pavlo Narozhniy told RFE/RL he would be cautious about evaluating reports from Kursk for now. The main questions, he said, related to Ukraine's capacity for a new offensive. "Do we have a sufficient number of free reserves, enough artillery to demolish the enemy's [Russia's] defenses there, which have already entrenched themselves in positions? Do we have a sufficient number of armored vehicles?" The coming days may present some answers to those questions. With additional reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service, RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, and Current Time 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." A fish was recently sold for 207 million yen ($1.3 million) at a traditional New Year's auction in Japan, making it the second most expensive such purchase in the history of similar auctions. This is a 276-kilogram tuna carcass. According to Japanese tradition, the first tuna of the year to be bought brings good luck to its owner. ADVERTISIMENT Kyodo News reports that the giant fish was jointly purchased by an intermediate wholesaler and the Michelin-starred sushi restaurant chain Onodera Group during a New Year's auction at the popular Toyosu fish market in Tokyo on January 5. "The year's first tuna brings good luck. We want to make people smile with food," Onodera Group spokesman Shinji Nagao told reporters after the auction. The purchased tuna became the second most expensive fish in the history of the New Year's auction at the Toyosu market, which has become one of the main tourist destinations in the Japanese capital in recent years. It was caught off the coast in the town of Oma on the morning of January 4, and the next day at 5:10 a.m. it was already on display at the fish market. ADVERTISIMENT "It was as fat as a cow. It's like a dream. I'm always worried about how many more years I can do this job, but I'm incredibly happy," said 73-year-old fisherman Masahiro Takeuchi, who caught the giant. The most expensive fish in the history of the Toyosha auction remains a bluefin tuna sold for 333.6 million yen (about $1.6 million) in 2019 to the owner of the Sushi Zanmai restaurant chain, Kiyoshi Kimura. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shapt collapse in bluefin tuna prices - in 2021, the most expensive fish was sold for 20.8 million yen, in 2023 - for 36 million, and at the New Year's auction in 2024, the most expensive tuna was sold for 114.2 million yen, which was also purchased by the Onodera Group. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! BISMARCK, ND Nathan Anderson, North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources director, and Ed Murphy, North Dakota state geologist, announced the completion of a case study evaluating the middle Three Forks reservoir within the Bakken Petroleum System. The study results indicate that significant undeveloped oil resources remain in this reservoir across a portion of western North Dakota. Following the 2006 discovery of the Parshall Field in western North Dakota, oil and gas companies primarily targeted the Middle Bakken with horizontal wells. The upper Three Forks later developed into a second established exploration and development target during 2008-2010. Then, beginning in 2013, the middle Three Forks began to be targeted. To date, over 360 horizontal wells have been drilled and completed in the middle Three Forks which have produced over 92 million barrels of oil and 238 billion cubic feet of gas. These wells have amounted to ~2% of the drilling activity in the Bakken-Three Forks petroleum system, and ~1.7% of the total oil production to date. While drilling and completion activity in the middle Three Forks has been relatively steady, questions remain regarding whether developing the middle Three Forks adds to long-term oil and gas recovery or simply accelerates the rate of recovery, producing the same amount of oil and gas but at a faster rate. An initial phase of the study was completed early in 2024 which led to a second, larger phase that was completed in 2024. Between the two phases, historical and future projected oil production was evaluated from 593 horizontal wells spanning fifty-one 1280-acre drilling spacing units. A total of 25 drilling spacing units evaluated contained middle Three Forks horizontal wells, of which 17 exhibited a clear volumetric addition of oil from middle Three Forks development (68%), six did not (24%), and in two (8%) the contribution was unclear. Additionally, the study results indicate that developing the middle Three Forks reservoir, when sufficiently charged with oil, will add on the order of 1-2 million barrels of additional recoverable oil per 1280-acre drilling spacing unit. The development of the initial prospective area of northeastern McKenzie County is estimated to require the drilling and completion of more than 600 additional middle Three Forks wells, which could produce more than 250 million barrels of oil. Additional middle Three Forks resource potential lies outside of the study area, and there is significant potential for this development opportunity to grow. The Dawson Patriots, a newly established organization, aims to foster education, discussion, and the dissemination of valuable information within the community. With a commitment to addressing important topics that impact American families, the group has announced a seven-month series of events scheduled for 2025. The inaugural event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the VFW in Glendive. Mimi Hoff, a distinguished speaker and Glendive resident, will present "The Fight for American Health". Her talk will delve into the pressing challenges and potential solutions surrounding the current American health crisis. Hoff brings a wealth of expertise in "Testing and Applied Epigenetics" and will share insights from her professional background and personal experiences. Her presentation aims to equip attendees with tools to optimize their health outcomes and unlock their potential for well-being. The Dawson Patriots' initiative represents an opportunity for residents to engage with critical issues in a constructive and informative setting. All community members are encouraged to attend and participate in this important conversation. For more information about upcoming events, stay connected with the Dawson Patriots. HELENAIn recognition of National Radon Action Month, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is offering Montana residents a free radon test kit during the month of January to assess radon levels in their homes. Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can enter homes through miniscule cracks in the foundation or around utility pipes and can build up in homes over time. Radon forms from the breakdown or decay of uranium in soil, rock and water. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels can increase the risk of lung cancer and is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. Montanas geology makes our state prone to elevated radon levels, said DEQ Energy Bureau Chief Ben Brouwer. Testing your home and mitigating radon levels, if necessary, is the best method to protect yourself from long-term exposure. When Montanans send their completed test kit to the lab, they are taking the first step to understanding their potential risk. Radon test kits are provided by the Montana DEQ Radon Control Program and funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The test kits are usually delivered within two weeks from the date they are requested. Once the test kit arrives, instructions provided in the kit will guide the two- to five-day testing process. DEQ recommends testing at the lowest occupied floor of a home every two to five years, after making structural changes to the home, or when moving into a previously unused lower floor of the home. Completed radon test kits must be mailed to the lab within one week of testing for accurate results. Paid return postage is provided with the radon test kit and lab results will be emailed once the test has been analyzed. EPA recommends taking steps to reduce, or mitigate, radon levels at or above the action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). In Montana, approximately half of the homes tested for radon have levels at or above the 4.0 pCi/L action level. Elevated radon levels can be reduced through mitigation measures. The cost for a radon mitigation contractor to lower radon levels in a home typically starts at $1,500; though actual costs may vary depending on the home. To learn more about radon in Montana, to order a free test kit, or to find a radon service provider, visit: https://deq.mt.gov/energy/Programs/radon. Those who like scary movies can now enjoy Don't Breathe directed by Federico Alvarez on Netflix. According to some users, the movie mad them "scream several times" while watching it. ADVERTISIMENT The first part of the thriller was released back in 2016, the second in 2021, and the third in 2022, respectively, Metro reports. The first film starred Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, and Daniel Zovatto as three Detroit criminals who rob homes. According to the story, the young men spotted the house of war veteran Norman Nordstrom (Stephen Lang), and began to follow him, learning that he was keeping $300,000 in cash. When the burglars decided to break in, the blind owner was already ready to hunt them down one by one. Horror fans admitted that they adore this movie for its unpredictable moments and an exciting plot that keeps you in suspense until the very end. Some consider it to be "the best horror movie ever." ADVERTISIMENT In an interview with Collider, actor Stephen Lang said that he doesn't consider his character a villain despite all the things he does in the movie. "You can understand why I dont approach him as a villain, right? OK. But this particular piece, one of the things that attracted me to it is its extremely ambiguous. This guy, the character role I play, is a victim first and foremost and has been a victim," he said. It is noteworthy that the first part of the franchise won several awards. It won the Best Horror Movie of the Year nomination at the Golden Schmoes Awards in 2016, as well as Best Horror Film one at Saturn Awards in 2017. Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes! Sidney Health Center (SHC) is notifying patients of a privacy incident involving a former physician who mishandled patient information. On Oct. 28, 2024, SHC received a report from an employee raising concerns that a physician may have been saving patient information to their personal Google account. SHC promptly initiated an internal investigation using its privacy monitoring tools. On Nov. 7, 2024, SHC confirmed that the physician had indeed saved patient information to a personal Google account. SHC continued its investigation, including interviewing the physician and requesting the destruction or return of all documents containing SHC patient information. Unfortunately, SHCs efforts did not receive the necessary cooperation. SHCs review of the documents saved by the physician revealed that certain files contained patient information. This information included names, dates of birth, medical record numbers, medical history, and/or treatment details, such as dates of service, provider names, diagnoses, and medications. Importantly, the documents did not contain Social Security numbers, health insurance ID numbers, or financial information. In accordance with federal health information privacy laws, SHC began mailing notification letters to affected patients on Jan. 3, 2025. These letters remind patients to carefully review all communications from healthcare providers, including electronic messages and billing statements, to ensure consistency with their records and expectations. SHC deeply regrets any concern or inconvenience this incident may cause. Protecting the confidentiality and security of patient information remains SHCs highest priority. To help prevent further unauthorized handling of patient information, SHC immediately suspended the physicians access to patient information unless accompanied by a supervisor during the investigation. The physician no longer works for SHC, and SHC has reported their conduct to the appropriate authorities. To prevent future incidents, SHC is implementing additional safeguards, including enhanced privacy training, and additional access and system monitoring controls. Patients with questions about this incident can contact SHCs dedicated helpline at 1-833-468-1010, Monday through Friday, between 6 a.m.-3 p.m. MT. Memorial Mass will be Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, Sidney, MT, with Father Jim O'Neil officiating. A luncheon will follow the service for a time of fellowship and sharing. Jackie will be laid to rest at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, at Lone Butte Cemetery, Sidney, MT. Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Fulkerson Stevenson Memorial Chapel, Sidney, MT. Flowers, cards, or any memorial contributions in Jackie's name are equally welcomed; please consider the charity of your choice, or the Foundation for Community Care, Sidney, MT. Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home, Sidney, MT, is assisting the family. Remembrances, condolences, and pictures may be shared with the family at http://www.fulkersons.com. Jacquelyn Rae Metzenberg was ALMOST born Holly Noelle Metzenberg on Dec. 27, 1955. Thanks to a deal struck between her parents, Ernie and Gladys, that he would name the girls and she would name the boys, she escaped the fate of being a Christmas baby with a Christmas name. Jackie was born in Miles City, MT, but thanks to Ernie's law enforcement career, she grew up all over SE Montana, graduating from Dawson County High School with the class of 1974, and Dawson Community College with the class of 1976. On a beautiful spring day in 1981, sheriff's deputy Denny Palmer walked across the alley from the Law Enforcement Center to the county courthouse in Sidney, MT, after being told how cute the new driver's examiner was (he'd later learned she was also the Highway Patrol Captain's middle daughter). Pleased to see he hadn't been misled, and blinded by her killer smile, Denny's atypical shyness crept up, and Jackie had to chase him a bit (he was cute too, and that mustache? Come on now). They were married at St. Matthew's Catholic Church on April 17, 1982. Jackie and Denny settled into their lives as a young married couple for just a short while before deciding to start a family. Their only child and built-in bestie, RaeLeigh Jo, was born Aug. 28, 1983. Jackie spent the next 22 years working for the state of Montana as a driver's examiner, providing written and final driving exams to hundreds of teenagers in Richland and Sheridan counties. Many remember her kind smile and calm demeanor in what were the most nerve-wracking moments of their young lives. When she wasn't carrying out her duties as "that Jackie lady" down at the DMV, she was busy being the best wife and mom in the entire world, tagging along with Denny and RaeLeigh in whatever adventures they could dream up. She taught her daughter the cultural significance of pop and country music in the late '80s and early '90s, earning herself a duet partner to any tune that came on the radio. She taught Denny as much patience as he could muster raising the headstrong kid that was somehow a perfect combination of her sweetness, his friendliness, and both their Scandinavian stubbornness. Jackie retired from driver services in 2005, to dedicate herself to being a stay-at-home mom of a recent college grad, waiting by the phone for the inevitable "how do I know this spaghetti is done?" phone call. Aside from her sometimes 3 daily calls with RaeLeigh, and her lunchtime and Friday night dates with Denny, she kept herself busy in retirement reading and planning a new house build, which was completed in 2011. When signing documents for their new home, Jackie's bright smile and kind and patient disposition enchanted the folks at Sidney Abstract and she found herself with a part-time administrative gig for a few years, until oil activity in the area slowed again. In July 2019, Jackie moved to Billings to be closer to her favorite daughter. Denny had retired from the sheriff's office but was working for the Richland County Road Department and commuting to his girls on weekends. In December 2019, he fully retired and joined them in Billings. The three amigos made it through the global COVID pandemic, hunkering down at home, and acquiring a pandemic puppy, Augustine, for RaeLeigh's 37th birthday. During her time in Billings, Jackie enjoyed caring for her family and grandpuppy, nail appointments, haircut dates, lunches, brunches, and Target/Starbucks/Soda Station runs with her daughter, and going for drives with Denny. Jackie peacefully passed away on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at the Billings Clinic Hospital, Billings, MT, after a short illness, but not before charming the daylights out of half the staff at Billings Clinic and University of Washington Medical. We will be eternally grateful for their efforts in giving us as much time with her as they could. She was lovingly welcomed Home by her mom and dad, beloved Grandma Daisy, big sister Bobbi, brother-in-law Mike, her in-laws, Gene and Helen, and her sweet niece, Amy Lynn. She is already desperately missed by the loves of her life, Denny and RaeLeigh Jo, her furball granddaughter Gus, her little sister Kellye, big brother Mike, step-mom Vada, brothers-in-law John, Joe, Hassell, and George, sisters-in-law Pam, Diane, and Loretta, childhood besties, Terry and Debi, as well as her cherished nieces Joli, Darcy, Tara (Randy), Blair, and Casey, and nephews Michael (Angie), Nathaniel (Alta), Nathan (Beth), and Corey (Tylah), as well as several great nieces and nephews. Aunt Jackie loved you guys, endlessly. Dr Swaiman Singh on Jagjit Singh Dallewal Health Condition Latest News For Jagjit Singh Dallewal and his supporters the clock is ticking. Dr Swaiman Singh on Jagjit Singh Dallewal Health Condition Latest News: Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a resolute voice for farmers rights, has been on a hunger strike for more than a month at the Khanauri border, but a grim medical crisis now overshadows his fight for justice. Dr. Swaiman Singh, a cardiologist and founder of the 5 Rivers Heart Association, visited Dallewal on Monday and sounded an urgent alarm about his deteriorating health. In a heartfelt and urgent letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Dr. Singh described the situation as extremely alarming. Advertisement Dallewal Js health has deteriorated significantly over the past 12 hours, Dr. Singh wrote. He is experiencing persistent hypotension and bradycardia, which are serious medical concerns. His vital signs and physical condition are critical. This is a red alert, and immediate action is necessary. For over a month, Dallewal has refused food, demanding attention to the grievances of Indias farmers. His protest has drawn widespread attention but little resolution. Supporters at the Khanauri border expressed mounting anxiety over his condition, urging authorities to heed Dr. Singhs warning and act before it is too late. Dr. Singhs plea has highlighted not only the human cost of the protest but also the urgency for dialogue and resolution. As a matter of duty, I feel it is imperative to bring this to everyones attention, he concluded, calling on the government to prioritize the crisis. Advertisement The farmer protest movement, which gained momentum during the 202021 farm law demonstrations, continues to emphasize the struggles of rural communities. Whether this latest appeal will prompt government action remains uncertain, but for Dallewal and his supporters, the clock is ticking. (For more news apart from Dr Swaiman Singh on Jagjit Singh Dallewal Health Condition Latest News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Farmers Announce Tractor March on January 26 Amid Hunger Strike by Jagjit Singh Dallewal Jagjit Singh Dallewals health remains a major concern as he continues his hunger strike. Farmers Announce Tractor March on January 26 Amid Jagjit Singh Dallewal's Hunger Strike: Amid the ongoing hunger strike of prominent farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, farmers held a crucial press conference today to outline their strategy to amplify their protest against the government. Key plans include demonstrations at both the Khanauri and Shambhu borders and symbolic actions to raise awareness of their demands and grievances. Advertisement Protest Schedule: January 10: Farmers will burn effigies of the NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in villages across the country. The symbolic action aims to convey that the voice of Jagjit Singh Dallewal and the farmers' movement resonates nationwide. January 26 (Republic Day): A tractor march will be conducted across India to showcase the unity and resolve of the farming community. Farmers also announced that detailed plans for their Republic Day tractor march and further protests would be finalized and shared in the next 3-4 days. Advertisement Jagjit Singh Dallewals health remains a major concern as he continues his hunger strike, with calls for immediate government intervention gaining momentum. Farmers reiterated their resolve to press forward until their demands are addressed. The protests highlight ongoing tensions between the farming community and the government, with nationwide actions planned to underscore their grievances. (For more news apart from Farmers Announce Tractor March on January 26 Amid Hunger Strike by Jagjit Singh Dallewal, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab Roadways, PRTC Contractual Workers Strike Disrupts Bus Services Across the State Commuters faced significant inconvenience as they were left without reliable transportation options. Punjab Roadways, PRTC Bus Strike Latest News Today: The ongoing strike by the PRTC and Punjab Roadways Contractual Union is set to conclude by the end of the day, with bus services resuming from tomorrow. However, union leaders have warned that if their demands are not addressed during the crucial meeting scheduled with officials on January 15 at 11:30 AM, a massive protest will be launched on January 16. The strike, organized by the Punjab Roadways, Punbus, PRTC Contract Workers Union, involved around 8,000 contractual employees. It affected nearly 2,800 buses as the demonstrations were being held at all 27 bus depots across Punjab. Advertisement Union president Resham Singh Gill had said that the employees were demanding the regularization of their jobs, a salary hike, and other employment benefits. Commuters faced significant inconvenience as they were left without reliable transportation options, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas heavily dependent on state-run buses. (For more news apart from Punjab Roadways, PRTC Bus Strike Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Punjab School Winter Vacation Holiday Extension Latest News Today A decision from the Punjab Government is expected soon. Punjab School Winter Vacation Holiday Extension Latest News Today: Parents and educators across Punjab are eagerly awaiting an official announcement on whether the state government will extend winter vacations for schools beyond January 7 or introduce revised school timings similar to the neighboring Chandigarh administration. The Punjab Government had earlier declared winter holidays in schools till January 31, only to revise the break to end on January 7. However, with temperatures plummeting and foggy conditions prevailing, parents are urging the authorities to either extend the vacation or adjust school schedules to ensure students safety. Advertisement Meanwhile, the Chandigarh Administration has already implemented revised school timings to address the harsh winter conditions. The new measures, effective until January 11, 2025, include: Classes up to VIII: Physical classes remain suspended. Online classes are encouraged, starting at 9:00 AM. Adjusted staff schedules to facilitate online learning. Classes IX to XII: Advertisement Schools may operate, starting no earlier than 9:30 AM and concluding by 3:30 PM. For pre-board examinations, schools may open at 9:00 AM if necessary. Staff schedules have been adjusted accordingly. These steps have been well-received by parents in Chandigarh, prompting calls for similar measures in Punjab. A decision from the Punjab Government is expected soon, with parents hopeful that the administration will prioritize the well-being of students and staff. Until then, schools and families remain in limbo, preparing for possible adjustments to academic schedules. (For more news apart from Punjab School Winter Vacation Holiday Extension Latest News Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Justin Trudeau Resignation Latest News Jagmeet Singh Criticizes Liberals Jagmeet Singh also reiterated the NDPs commitment to opposing Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's proposed cuts to public services Justin Trudeau Resignation Latest News Today: New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has openly criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau following his announcement to step down as the Liberal Party leader and Prime Minister. Singh accused Trudeau and the Liberal Party of failing Canadians on critical issues such as housing, healthcare, and the rising cost of living. Speaking to the media and in a statement shared on social media platform X, 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 healthcare. It doesnt matter who leads the Liberals. They dont deserve another chance." Advertisement Singh also criticized the Conservative Party, accusing it of favoring corporate interests. He urged Canadians to back the NDP, promising a government that prioritizes the needs of ordinary people. Addressing concerns over Parliaments prorogation until March 2025, Singh called the Liberal Party's actions unacceptable. "The Liberals are shutting down Parliament instead of addressing Canadians needs. If someone failed to show up to work, theyd get fired. Thats exactly what should happen to the Liberals," Singh asserted. Singh also reiterated the NDPs commitment to opposing Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's proposed cuts to public services such as pensions, healthcare, and dental care. "The Conservatives want to take away the very programs Canadians rely on. If you oppose these cuts, stand with the NDP. We will fight for the working and middle class, bring down grocery costs, and make housing more affordable," he said. Advertisement Singh confirmed that the NDP will vote against the Liberal government at upcoming confidence votes, advocating for an election to allow Canadians to make a choice. In September 2024, Singhs NDP withdrew its support for the minority Liberal government, citing Trudeaus failure to address corporate greed and the struggles of Canadians. This decision, made a year ahead of the scheduled general elections, left Trudeaus government vulnerable. (For more news apart from Justin Trudeau Resignation Latest News Jagmeet Singh Criticizes Liberals, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman Europe is literally dotted with beautiful and interesting cities that are worth visiting to gain experience during your vacation. But the most popular tourist destinations are more expensive. ADVERTISIMENT That's why Express has prepared a list of European cities that allow you to explore rich history and stunning architecture without emptying your wallet. They are called hidden gems, and they are located from the cold north to the coast of the warm southern seas. You will definitely find something to your liking. These seven inexpensive tourist cities in Europe definitely deserve a place in your plans. Warsaw, Poland The capital of Poland boasts an incredibly rich history of the old town, which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is also rich in picturesque green spaces, such as the 76-hectare Lazienki Park. Warsaw has a very vibrant nightlife, some great new boutique hotels, and all for a very modest price. This stunning city has been voted the best European destination city for 2023 - and it's easy to see why. In the summer, visitors can relax on the city's beaches lining the banks of the Vistula River, and all year round there are excellent restaurants, water parks, and a zoo, making Warsaw a fantastic family destination. ADVERTISIMENT Antwerp, Belgium Antwerp is often overshadowed by Brussels, but that's not why it's not so crowded with tourists. The port city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a rich artistic history, great opportunities for designers and artists, and the Plantin-Morteus Museum. Getting around Antwerp is very convenient and can be reached by train. While walking around, you will admire the beautiful architecture and don't forget to check out the famous Antwerp Jazz Club, founded in 1938, which offers free lectures on the history of jazz, as well as blues concerts and performances. Lisbon, Portugal ADVERTISIMENT The capital of Portugal is fast becoming a popular European destination thanks to its gorgeous colorful houses and cobblestone streets. Lisbon's charming neighborhoods and scenic tram rides are perfect for a budget-friendly adventure. Here you can taste the flavorful local pastries and wine and admire the stunning views. Lisbon is located at the mouth of the Tagus River on the Atlantic coast of Portugal. It is considered the oldest city in Western Europe, as it was founded around 1200 BC - several centuries earlier than London, Paris, and Rome. It is an incredibly interesting historical center with many gems waiting to be discovered. Dublin, Ireland ADVERTISIMENT Dublin is famous for its old-world charm and walkability. Visitors can easily move between many of its attractions, including the Abbey Theater and the Dublin Writers' Museum, on foot. And this already means savings on public transportation. At the same time, the cost of living in the city's hotels has recently decreased. Must-see places include the iconic Guinness Storehouse, which tells the story of the world's favorite Irish drink, complete with tastings and a rooftop bar, as well as the picturesque St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Trinity College campus. Amsterdam, the Netherlands While the iconic canal city of Amsterdam may be trying to counteract overtourism with Europe's highest tourist tax, travelers who behave respectfully and responsibly can still find ways to enjoy the city for a reasonable amount of money. First of all, choose to go out during off-peak hours. Then the crowds dissipate and the city appears in all its glory. Take a boat tour of the canals or rent a bike, and don't forget to ask when local museums offer free admission. ADVERTISIMENT Reykjavik, Iceland The world's northernmost capital is a multicultural city with magnificent views of snow-capped mountains and calm waters. Reykjavik is home to just 120,000 people, and 200,000 with the metropolitan area. At the same time, it is the gateway to such unusual natural phenomena as the northern lights. Experts advise staying here for a few days to enjoy Icelandic culture, for example, try Scandinavian food and experience its vibrant music scene. Venture outside the city to see the best views of the northern lights, and visit the Geysir geothermal area, Gudlfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. ADVERTISIMENT Athens Riviera, Greece Traveling to the Greek islands can really cost you a fortune. The same cannot be said for the Athenian Riviera, which also boasts beautiful beaches and delicious local cuisine. And all this without additional flights and ferry crossings. At the same time, these places are as beautiful as Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. If you come here outside of the high season, you can relax on a very budget. Like many destinations in Greece, the Athenian Riviera boasts a number of incredible ancient monuments, such as the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion, which was built between 444 and 440 BC. Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. A look back at 2024 Happy New Year, with many interesting topics! Radio Romania International Ana-Maria Cononovici, 07.01.2025, 13:35 We start the new year by reviewing some of the unique initiatives that we presented to you in last years episodes. We visited the workshops of tradition keepers; we discovered civic actions, as well as cultural events with a civic and environmental impact; we talked to people who are not afraid to chase their dreams, and we showcased the famous Romanian creativity and spontaneity. In March, we discovered how the traditional March amulet, Martisor, is becoming a good pretext for tradition keepers. Included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, in 2017, following applications filed by Romania, Bulgaria, Macedonia and the Republic of Moldova, the Martisor tradition remains more than a profitable business. This is what Teodor Adrian Negoita, from Barlogeni, Mehedinti, told us at a fair in Bucharest. He also described his designs for us: Teodor Adrian Negoita: Im selling Martisoare in the shape of miniature spoons, decorated with Romanian traditional motifs and a word in Romanian; I think its nice to remember our native language no matter how many foreign languages we speak, and I thought it would be a good idea for a Martisor, so traditional motifs and a Romanian word. I also made miniature versions of hand-stitched leather shoes, also decorated with a Romanian word and which can be tied in different ways. They are all hand-made, without a model, and placed in a small envelope so they can be given as a gift. And then, the third type of Martisor I make are crosses with fortune letters explaining the name of the cross, basically an introduction into Romanian traditional art and village culture. Its up to us to preserve the tradition, so each and every one of us has to do their best, go back to the roots. My Martisoare, for example, dont have fasteners, thats how they used to make them. I have older customers who tell me thats how they remember their grandmothers making them. You could either sow them on coats or tie them around the wrist. Thats what traditional Martisoare were like. In May we discovered details about the shapes of wine bottles, as the shape and colour of the bottles have a special meaning, according to George Ignat, known in the world of specialists as George Wine, a lecturer at the Romanian branch of the Higher School of Sommeliers, and a member of the Wine Lover Romania Association: George Ignat: When were in a restaurant, or perhaps in the wine aisle at the market, were surrounded by a plethora of bottles that come in scores of shapes and colours and display various labels that are a genuine sight for the eyes. Colour-wise, bottles come in a diverse offer. The most common are transparent bottles, used in particular for white and rose wines. Then there are brown bottles, which are usually used to bottle red and green wines, although they are also used by white wines. For advertising reasons, winemakers also sell wine in blue bottles or resort to other less conventional tones. In terms of size, things get even more interesting. A typical wine bottle has 750 milliliters. I will try to outline the main types of wine that are bottled in atypical bottles. There are many smaller-sized bottles, but the most frequently used has 375 millilitres, which is half the standard volume of standard sweet desert reds from Soter. Why this specific figure? Whereas the typical yield for these sweet wines is 65%, due to atypical production process, the yield is 12%, production is quite small, which is why this type of bottle was adopted. The standard 750-mililiter bottle actually has 770 millilitres of liquid inside, due to the cork and the oxygen in-between. Having acknowledged that Romania ranks 13th in the world by wine consumption per capita, with just over 23 litres per year, 30 bottles per year, 2.5 per month, in a ranking led by a long way by Portugal, followed by France and Italy, we move on to another topic: making heritage accessible. With the intention of highlighting the cultural heritage in our country, an association called Designers, Thinkers, Makers created the Culture and Cultures programme, aimed at cultural renaissance, with an emphasis on promoting UNESCO sites. Alexandra Mihailciuc, an architect and the coordinator of the Associations cultural programmes, gave us details: Alexandra Mihailciuc: This programme, Culture and Cultures, we thought it out as some sort of cultural revitalising we have built in a bid to protect and capitalise on the values of Romanias cultural heritage. It somehow speaks about culture, about the various ethnic cultures, but also about culture in its basic sense, connected to the ground, that is about the territories around the house, the manor house, the village. This means its equally about the care for our nearest, but also about the care for the farthest, since they are tied by an umbilical cord. And the ultimate purpose of such a program, actually, is to use as many means as possible for the creation of a good climate, good for culture, and, at long last, good for the quality of life. Besides, one of the key components of this program is the education for heritage. We realised it matters for all social layers and for all ages. From our point of view, it is one of Romanian societys emergencies. We see, around us, how much is being destroyed, how little the communities take responsibility for the heritage, how little it is loved and understood and how little it is capitalized on. This programme has several cultural projects. The project weve carried this year, Heritage Lab. Connecting the Dots, is just one of the projects in this programme, which also has three streams: education, research and design. Stay with us this year as well, for many more interesting stories from Romania! (AMP) Mathematician Gheorghe Titeica The history of the Romanian school of mathematics begins in the late 1810s, with the establishment, in 1818, of the Polytechnic University of Bucharest under the name of Higher Technical School. Here and in other higher education institutions established later, entire generations of Romanian engineers and mathematicians were trained. One of the names that made history in the development of mathematics in Romania is Gheorghe Titeica. RRI Steliu Lambru, 04.01.2025, 13:57 The history of the Romanian school of mathematics begins in the late 1810s, with the establishment, in 1818, of the Polytechnic University of Bucharest under the name of Higher Technical School. Here and in other higher education institutions established later, entire generations of Romanian engineers and mathematicians were trained. One of the names that made history in the development of mathematics in Romania is Gheorghe Titeica. He was born in 1873, in Turnu Severin, a city on the Romanian bank of the Danube Gorge, and passed away in Bucharest in 1939, at the age of 66. From an early age, he showed a great interest in mathematics and the so-called hard sciences, that is, the formal sciences and the natural sciences that are based on methodological rigor, accuracy and objectivity. He was the first to be admitted to the Bucharest Normal School, the future PolytechnicUniversity, and studied mathematics at the Faculty of Sciences in Bucharest. Among the professors at the University of Bucharest, he was closest to mathematician and astronomer Spiru Haret, the most important reformer of the Romanian education system. In 1895 he graduated in mathematics and the following year he went to study in Paris. He specialized in differential geometry. Titeica wrote about networks in a space with n dimensions and introduced new classes of surfaces, curves and networks. He issued the five-lei piece problem or Titeicas theorem, and the concepts of Titeica surface and Titeica curve. He also dedicated himself to popularizing science and raising the level of mathematical education in Romania. One of his great passions was the Gazeta Matematica magazine and he was among the founders of the publication Mathematics. Bogdan Suceava is a mathematician and writer and an expert in the history of mathematics in Romania. He defines Titeicas study period in the West as decisive for his career and and the development of scientific education in Romania: The first decades of Gazeta Matematica are linked to Gheorghe Titeicas name. He benefited from scholarships all his life. He grew up without a father. He graduated from the school in Bucharest and in 1896, and, when he arrived in Paris, the first thing he was recommended to do was study at the Ecole Preparatoire. On that first year, he met Henri Lebesgue, who six years later would become the author of a very important chapter in mathematical analysis. Titeica, being of the human quality we know, followed two sets of courses, those at the Ecole Preparatoire and those at the Ecole Normale. The first year was hell. He coped at the highest level and the question is why was he recommended to take more courses? Between Bucharest and Paris there was a certain difference. In July 1897, he quickly passed the certification exams in differential and integral calculus, mechanics and astronomy, all in a single year. He was first in an extraordinary generation, occasion on which he received a scholarship, plus a fee exemption. This experience would be important at a formative level. He understood very quickly how things were, how he had to prepare, what level the French school was at and where the Romanian school was at, during that time. This was happening before 1900. Romania was moving at full speed towards the West and Romanian mathematics was one of the sciences in great expansion. And Titeicas generation sought to reduce the huge differences between Western society, the French one being the great model, and the Romanian one. As Bogdan Suceava also noted, Titeica met top mathematicians in France and learned from them everything that he brought to Romania: Who did Gheorghe Titeica work with? He worked with Gaston Darboux, who at that time was not only dean of the Faculty of Mathematics at the Sorbonne, he was also the author of a four-volume treatise on differential geometry in which the unifying theme is the following: how to choose the most appropriate benchmarks for various problems of differential geometry? The subject he studied was a whole philosophy, he was a very influential author who had many talented students, Titeica being one of the best. He also studied with Henri Poincare, Edouard Goursat, Charles Hermite, Emile Picard, Jules Tannery, Paul Emile Appell, the best mathematicians. After which, in 1899, he returned to Bucharest. He would write until 1937, over 100 works. In the last two years he did not work at all. He started collaborating with Gazeta Matematica while he was in Paris. The mathematics competition with the same name owes a lot to him. The editorials he wrote during that period described everything, including how the candidates behaved in the oral exams. Its the kind of comments that no one would publish today, but which Titeica, did. Gheorghe Titeica could not have become anything other than a university professor, a member of some academies and an honorary doctor of some universities. He was also among the ranks of the Romanian Society of Mathematical Sciences, whose president he was. The Romanian Revolution 35 The Romanian Revolution 35 Steliu Lambru, 06.01.2025, 14:04 We often talk about big resets when a type of leader wins the elections in a country with a major global influence, as was Donald Trumps victory in November 2024 in the US. But big resets are those that occur when significant changes take place in large and important geopolitical areas, as was the year 1989 in Central and Eastern Europe. At that time, the communist regimes in Poland, Hungary, the German Democratic Republic, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria and Romania ceded power or were violently removed by popular anger. The Romanian case is that of the change of a regime through violent means, the most violent of all the changes since 1989. Long commented on since 1989, although less visible than in other years, the Romanian Revolution continues to be, at 35 years on, the main reference point for everything that connects Romanians to their daily lives. Its legacy is indisputably positive and the changes that have occurred since then have brought a significant increase in the living standards, a consistent presence in the most important military and civil alliances that are NATO, the European Union and the Schengen area. All of this was possible thanks to the sacrifice of protesters in December 1989 and the constant effort made by the several tens of millions of Romanians over the past 35 years. Historians analyze the past and from them we learn what has happened to humanity up to the present. Historian Virgiliu Tarau, professor with Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj, talked about the change 35 years ago and the difficult path, the so-called transition: Although we still have a little time, about a decade, until we equal and exceed, in terms of time frame, the East European communism, let us note that the transition from this regime to the democratic one was both short and long. The time of change was short, intense, revolutionary, the time of transformation and, especially, of metabolizing the transformation was a long, diverse and complex one. It had distinct trajectories in the transition at regional and national levels. As such, if the change was apparently rapid, the transition was a long process, one in which the transplantation of a new system on the social, political, economic, cultural and mentality roots of communism, proved laborious and sometimes contradictory. The Romanian revolution can only be understood in the spirit of the European time that produced it. It is nothing more than a particular case of the big reset that led to todays reality. Virgiliu Tarau: The cumulative events of 1989 took the world in a new direction. It has been said that it was a Eurocentric, democratic, liberal and integrative one, one in which Eastern Europe transformed itself, peacefully or not, giving up the political order and the communist regimes. It was one that led to the unification of Germany and then Europe, in an ambitious project: from Portugal to the Baltic states. The windows that opened then, created the premises of another globalization, but also of a world that seemed to have overcome the realities of the Cold War. In the analysis made in 1989 by the British historian Timothy Garton Ash, the ways in which communist power in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe was removed were peaceful, through elections, or through revolutionary violence. Virgiliu Tarau spoke about the one specific to Romania, the revolution: This was associated with the events that took place in East Germany, Czechoslovakia and Romania in the last months of 1989. This difference underlined by Timothy Garton Ash was made taking into account especially the contestation of communist power in the street, the pressure from bottom to top, which germinated and led to the removal of communist elites from power. The opacity and project stagnation of the elders Honecker, Husak and Ceausescu, the blindness and violence of their reactions, the lack of dialogue within the communist power circles, but also of dialogue with the opposition structures, were other ingredients of this second type of change in Garton Ashs opinion. Protest, contestation and political removal were associated with the fall of the Wall, the velvet or bloody takeover of power that accompanied the change in 1989. Regardless of the manner in which they emerged from the stage of history, peaceful or violent, communist regimes were rotten. Virgiliu Tarau: Beyond external influences, strategic games, historical evidence shows us that communist systems succumbed from within, that those guilty of this implosion were the communist leaders themselves, incapable of managing an increasingly corrupt and dysfunctional system. In essence, no longer viable and legitimate, communism was abandoned precisely by those who managed its destiny, members of the system and technocrats alike. In conclusion, by transforming the Iron Continent into a nylon one, subversion from within became increasingly consistent. The lack of resources to solve the debt problem put them in a position to negotiate and, finally, to hand over power, when the street protests could no longer be managed. The Romanian Revolution of 1989 is part of the big reset of Central and Eastern Europe. It produced positive effects in all aspects of the life of societies that 35 years ago were desperately struggling with economic misery and closed horizons. January 7, 2025 A roundup of local and international news. Newsflash Newsroom, 07.01.2025, 13:55 A roundup of local and international news. St. JOHN Orthodox and Greek Catholic believers celebrate today Saint John the Baptist , the last prophet of the Old Testament. Almost 2 million Romanians celebrate their name day today. Also today, old-style Christians celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ. The Serbian and Lipovan communities in Romania, as well as the Orthodox in the Republic of Moldova, are marking the first day of Christmas. The difference from other Christians comes from the fact that they observe the Julian Calendar or the old calendar, which is 13 days behind. In Orthodox Christianity, the monastic community of Mount Athos, the Russian and Serbian churches, and the Orthodox in Israel follow the old-style calendar and celebrate the Nativity of the Lord today. GAS Romania has enough natural gas reserves to get through the winter, said Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja. The statement comes in the context of information reported by the media, according to which gas storage facilities in the European Union are emptying at a rapid pace. Burduja said that, at present, Romanian stocks exceed what is needed for the cold season. He explained that there are still 2,000 million cubic meters of stored gas, given that consumption is on average 20 million/day. Thus, at the end of winter, 800 million cubic meters will remain in storage facilities. Burduja also said, in an online post, that Romania has become the largest natural gas producer in the European Union last year, and starting with 2027, when the exploitation of the Black Sea deposits within the Neptun Deep project begins, national production will double. RESIGNATION Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, but said he would stay in office until the Liberal Party names a successor. He also said that the work of the Parliament in Ottawa, which was due to resume on January 27, would be suspended until March 24. News agencies report that Trudeau has been under intense pressure from Liberal lawmakers for weeks, amid polls predicting a clear defeat for the party in the upcoming election, scheduled for October. Justin Trudeau became prime minister in November 2015 and has been re-elected twice. However, his popularity began to decline two years ago, amid public anger caused by rising prices and a housing shortage. LABOR 100,000 foreign workers could work in Romania this year, according to a project by the Romanian Ministry of Labor. Romanian companies will be allowed to bring in workers from outside the European Union to compensate for the labor shortage in areas such as construction, postal and courier activities, restaurants, hotels, retail trade in non-specialized stores or road freight transport. The labor crisis at the national level is a reality, the executive from Bucharest has acknowledged. Thus, legal immigration can be a solution to compensate for the labor shortage, but also to support economic growth. Such an approach, however, implies an efficient management of immigration, given that foreign workers replace Romanians who have chosen to go abroad on the labor market. Most foreign workers in Romania come from Nepal, Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh. VISITORS Over 2 million people visited the Craiova Christmas Fair, which ended on Monday. The city hall in south-western Romania said that this winters edition featured several firsts, including Santas flying sleigh, over 2 million lights, and the largest area for a Christmas fair in Europe 280,000 square meters. The organizers of the Craiova Fair said that the event received the highest number of votes registered from other countries, over 91,000. Most of Romanias holiday fairs have closed, many even before the end of last year. However, the one in Brasov, in the center of the country, and the one in the capital Bucharest are still open today. WORKS Bulgarian authorities will resume, as of Wednesday, the extensive repair works of the Giurgiu-Ruse bridge (south), the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a travel alert. Traffic will unfold on a single lane, based on a traffic light system. Repairs to the Friendship Bridge over the Danube River began in July 2024 and were temporarily seized during the winter holidays. January 7, 2025 UPDATE A roundup of local and international news Newsflash Newsroom, 07.01.2025, 20:00 A roundup of local and international news FRANCE The founder and long-time leader of the French far-right National Front party Jean-Marie Le Pen, died on Tuesday at the age of 96. Firmly against immigration and having a virulent anti-Semitic speech, Jean-Marie Le Pen founded the National Front party in 1972. He constantly attacked the European Union, which he saw as a supranational project that usurped the powers of nation states. Le Pen shook the political elite in France when he reached the second round of the 2002 presidential election, which he lost, however, to Jacques Chirac, after obtaining only 18% of the vote. He was succeeded as head of the National Front by his daughter, Marine Le Pen, who also ran for president three times and transformed the party now called the National Assembly (Rassemblement National) into one of the main political forces in the country. POVERTY Romania continues to have the highest rate of poverty and social exclusion in the European Union, according to a recent World Bank report. In 2023, about a third of the population was in this situation, and the disparities between urban and rural areas were significant. The document also shows that incomes would have to almost double to reach the standard of 25 US dollars per day, considered a minimum of prosperity. In 2023, more than 13% of the countrys population faced difficulties in paying utility bills, with a rate of over 28% among those living in poverty. Increases in energy prices have worsened the phenomenon. GAS Romania has enough natural gas reserves to get through the winter, said Energy Minister Sebastian Burduja. The statement came in the context of information reported by the media, according to which gas storage facilities in the European Union are emptying at a rapid pace. Burduja said that, at present, Romanian stocks exceed what is needed for the cold season. He explained that there are still 2,000 million cubic meters of stored gas, given that consumption is on average 20 million/day. Thus, at the end of winter, 800 million cubic meters will remain in storage facilities. Burduja also said, in an online post, that Romania has become the largest natural gas producer in the European Union last year, and starting with 2027, when the exploitation of the Black Sea deposits within the Neptun Deep project begins, national production will double. LABOR 100,000 foreign workers could work in Romania this year, according to a project by the Romanian Ministry of Labor. Romanian companies will be allowed to bring in workers from outside the European Union to compensate for the labor shortage in areas such as construction, postal and courier activities, restaurants, hotels, retail trade in non-specialized stores or road freight transport. The labor crisis at the national level is a reality, the executive from Bucharest has acknowledged. Thus, legal immigration can be a solution to compensate for the labor shortage, but also to support economic growth. Such an approach, however, implies an efficient management of immigration, given that foreign workers replace Romanians who have chosen to go abroad on the labor market. Most foreign workers in Romania come from Nepal, Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh. WORKS Bulgarian authorities will resume, as of Wednesday, the extensive repair works of the Giurgiu-Ruse Bridge (south), the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a travel alert. Traffic will unfold on a single lane, based on a traffic light system. Repairs to the Friendship Bridge over the Danube River began in July 2024 and were temporarily seized during the winter holidays. The World Health Organization's chartered flight carrying humanitarian aid has landed in Syrian capital Damascus. More than 32 tons of medicines and emergency kits are part of WHO's ongoing efforts to meet the immediate medical needs of 300,000 people in Syria. It comes after the UN agency delivered nine tons of vital medical supplies to Tabqa and Ar-Raqqa hospitals in northeast Syria before the new year, to boost the international health response. The supplies included kits for dialysis and to treat non-communicable diseases, in addition to other essential medicines and food. Last year, the WHO carried out 47 humanitarian flights to Syria from its logistics hub in Dubai. Meanwhile, UN aid coordination office, OCHA, said relief efforts are continuing in Syria as the situation on the ground allows. WHO conducted the first UN cross-border mission of the year, crossing from Turkey to Azaz in northern Aleppo to train paramedics on trauma care. Briefing reporters in New York, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the World Food Program has resumed distribution of food parcels this month, alongside the Syrian Arab Red Crescent as the implementing partner, hoping to reach more than 3,600 families monthly. Explosive remnants of the long running Syria war are also taking a toll. According to UN partners, 13 civilians were killed and dozens were injured due to landmine explosions in the north-west of the country last week. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Getty Images Holdings, Inc. (GETY), a visual media company, Tuesday said it has signed a merger agreement with rival Shutterstock, Inc. (SSTK). The combined company, which would have an enterprise value of about $3.7 billion, will be named Getty Images Holdings, Inc and will continue to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GETY. Getty Images's CEO, Craig Peters will be the CEO of the new company. As per the deal, Shutterstock shareholders can elect to receive either $28.84870 per share in cash, or 13.67237 shares of Getty Images, or a mix of 9.17 shares of Getty Images plus $9.50 in cash for each Shutterstock share they own. Based on the common shares outstanding as of the signing date, the total consideration payable by Getty Images would consist of $331 million in cash and 319.4 million shares of Getty Images. At the close of the deal, the combined company will be 54.7 percent owned by Getty Images stockholders and 45.3 percent owned by Shutterstock stockholders. On a pro forma 2024 basis, the combined company would have revenue of between $1.979 billion and $1.993 billion, with 46 percent of subscription revenue, and pre-synergy EBITDA, or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization in the range of $569 million-$574 million. "Today's announcement is exciting and transformational for our companies, unlocking multiple opportunities to strengthen our financial foundation and invest in the futureincluding enhancing our content offerings, expanding event coverage, and delivering new technologies to better serve our customers," said Craig Peters, CEO, Getty Images. "We expect the merger to produce value for the customers and stockholders of both companies by capitalizing on attractive growth opportunities to drive combined revenues, accelerating product innovation, realizing significant cost synergies and improving cash flow," said Paul Hennessy, CEO, Shutterstock. In the pre-market trading, Shutterstock shares were rising 30 percent, and Getty Images shares were up more than 83 percent up. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The U.S. Department of Defense has announced the transfer of 11 Yemeni detainees from the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay to the Government of Oman. Through different processes, each of the Yemeni detainees underwent a thorough, inter-agency review by career professionals who unanimously determined that all of them are eligible for transfer consistent with the national security interests of the United States. On September 15, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin notified Congress of his plan to repatriate these Yemeni detainees to the Government of Oman and, in consultation with U.S. partners in Oman, the Defense Department completed the requirements for transfer. The Periodic Review Board decided by consensus that continued law of war detention was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States and that any national security risk from these Yemeni detainees could be adequately mitigated. The United States is focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population at its naval base off Cuba and ultimately closing it. Currently, 15 detainees remain at Guantanamo Bay. Out of them, three are eligible for transfer, three are eligible for a Periodic Review Board, seven are involved in the military commissions process, and two detainees have been convicted and sentenced by military commissions. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News AI chipmaker Nvidia Corp. announced major product advancements in the field of generative artificial intelligence, amid significant growth of AI worldwide. The tech major also revealed partnerships with major corporates, including Uber Technologies, Inc., Toyota Motor Corp. and Accenture, at the Consumer Electronics Show or CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Nvidia founder and CEO Jensen Huang, during his keynote address at the CES 2025, issued several important updates. Nvidia shares, which gained 3.4 percent on Monday's trading, is currently down 4%, at $143.49. Toyota gained 2.1% on the NYSE, and Uber was up 2.3 percent. Nvidia's new launches include next-generation Cosmos platform, AI-powered gaming chips, its first desktop computer, and technology that speeds up the training of robots, among others. Nvidia has launched an update to its GeForce graphics processing units or GPUs, created with Blackwell design that the company uses in its AI accelerators. NVIDIA Cosmos The company unveiled NVIDIA Cosmos, a platform comprising state-of-the-art generative world foundation models, advanced tokenizers, guardrails, and an accelerated video processing pipeline. It is built to advance the development of physical AI systems such as autonomous vehicles or AVs and robots. Cosmos eliminates cost and resource barriers, helping democratize access to tools for developing physical AI. Nvidia will offer Cosmos models under an open model license to accelerate the work of the robotics and AV community. Nvidia also announced new Nvidia Llama Nemotron large language models and Nvidia Cosmos Nemotron vision language models. Project DIGITS NVIDIA's new personal AI supercomputer provides AI researchers, data scientists and students worldwide with access to the power of the NVIDIA Grace Blackwell platform. Project DIGITS will be available in May from NVIDIA and top partners, starting at $3,000. According to Huang, the Grace Blackwell Superchip comes to millions of developers with Project DIGITS. It features the new NVIDIA GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip, offering a petaflop of AI computing performance for prototyping, fine-tuning and running large AI models. DRIVE Hyperion Platform NVIDIA's autonomous vehicle platform, NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Hyperion, has passed industry-safety assessments by TV SD and TV Rheinland authorities for automotive-grade safety and cybersecurity, raising the bar for AV safety, innovation and performance. It will be available in the first half of 2025. DRIVE Hyperion, the industry's first and only end-to-end autonomous driving platform includes the DRIVE AGX system-on-a-chip or SoC and reference board design, the NVIDIA DriveOS automotive operating system, a sensor suite, and an active safety and level 2+ driving stack. The platform, which is designed to be modular, has been adopted by automotive safety pioneers such as Mercedes-Benz, JLR and Volvo Cars. Omniverse With Generative Physical AI NVIDIA announced generative AI models and blueprints that expand NVIDIA Omniverse integration further into physical AI applications such as robotics, autonomous vehicles and vision AI. The Omniverse is being used by software development and professional services companies to develop new products and services that will accelerate the next era of industrial AI. NVIDIA also announced four new blueprints that make it easier for developers to build Universal Scene Description or OpenUSD-based Omniverse digital twins for physical AI. AI Foundation Models for RTX AI PCs NVIDIA unveiled foundation models running locally on NVIDIA RTX AI PCs that supercharge digital humans, content creation, productivity and development. Offered as NVIDIA NIM microservices, these models are accelerated by new GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs, which feature up to 3,352 trillion operations per second of AI performance and 32GB of VRAM. Nvidia's AI deals Nvidia is collaborating with ride-hailing major Uber on new solutions to support the development of AI-powered autonomous driving technology. The companies will share additional details later this year. With vast and rich source of data for Uber's millions of trips every day, the companies will look to pair with the NVIDIA Cosmos platform and NVIDIA DGX Cloud to help AV partners build stronger AI models even more efficiently. Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, said, "Generative AI will power the future of mobility, requiring both rich data and very powerful compute. By working with NVIDIA, we are confident that we can help supercharge the timeline for safe and scalable autonomous driving solutions for the industry." Further, Nvidia announced that mobility companies Toyota Motor, Aurora and Continental will develop and build their consumer and commercial vehicle fleets on NVIDIA accelerated computing and AI. Japanese automajor Toyota will build its next-generation vehicles on NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin, running the safety-certified NVIDIA DriveOS operating system. These vehicles will offer functionally safe, advanced driving assistance capabilities. Aurora, Continental and NVIDIA also announced a long-term strategic partnership to deploy driverless trucks at scale, powered by NVIDIA DRIVE. Its accelerated compute running DriveOS will be integrated into the Aurora Driver, an SAE level 4 autonomous-driving system that Continental plans to mass-manufacture in 2027. NVIDIAs automotive vertical , comprising cutting-edge platforms spanning training in the cloud to simulation to compute in the car, is expected to grow to around $5 billion in fiscal year 2026. In a separate deal, KION Group is working with professional services company Accenture Plc to optimize supply chains using NVIDIA's advanced AI and simulation technologies. Further, Accenture has launched AI Refinery for Industry, built with NVIDIA AI Enterprise software, with a collection of 12 industry agent solutions. With this, organizations can rapidly build and deploy a network of AI agents that can enhance its workforce, address industry-specific challenges, and drive business value faster. NVIDIA AI Enterprise software includes NVIDIA NeMo, NVIDIA NIM microservices and NVIDIA AI Blueprints, including Video Search and Summarization and Digital Human. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The low-cost Toyota Prius model is ready to enter the market in 2025. This is an economical model of the manufacturer, which once popularized affordable hybrids. The cost of the car has now been revealed. ADVERTISIMENT According to Carscoops, the price of the Toyota Prius will start at $28,350 in 2025. Interestingly, the car recently set a record for efficiency. The new Toyota Prius crossed the US from the East to the West Coast. The Toyota hybrid covered more than 5,000 km with an average fuel consumption of 2.5 l/100 km. This achievement was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. Prius has other achievements. In a competition at the New York Auto Show, professional designers selected the finalists from 70 applicants for the Best Design nomination. The jury then selected the winner, which was the Toyota Prius. Also in 2024, the new-generation Prius was named the best car of the year in the United States as part of the prestigious North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) competition. Experts liked the hybrid for its striking design and efficient powertrain. At the end of 2023, the economical model was named the best car in Japan. At the same time, the hybrid went far ahead of its rivals in the Japan Car of the Year competition. The Nairobi River, in Kenya, is a hotspot for forever chemicals. [Gerald Anderson/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images[ By Patrick Ssebugere (Senior lecturer, Department of Chemistry, Makerere University) Ashirafu Miiro (PhD candidate, Rhodes University) Nelson Odume (Associate professor, Rhodes University) Its clear from our findings that forever chemical contamination, while under-reported compared to industrialised countries, is a widespread, pressing environmental issue on the continent. Our study identifies PFAS contamination in 11 African countries: South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Mali and Tunisia. South Africa recorded some of the highest levels. These countries are based on the scientific papers examined. It is highly likely that these chemicals are in other countries but remain unreported. The European Union has a list of proposed PFAS thresholds for sensitive environments like rivers, lakes and wetlands. Some regions within the countries in our study exceed those thresholds. What are the hotspots? Industrial effluent outfalls and commercial agriculture are two of the main drivers of PFAS contamination. Wastewater treatment plants are another major culprit. Many plants across the countries in our study use outdated technology and are not sufficiently regulated. This allows PFAS-laden effluent to flow into aquatic ecosystems. One of the hotspots we identified was South Africas Vaal River, where industrial effluents were contributing to contamination. Another was Kenyas Nairobi River; urbanisation and industrial runoff are driving high PFAS levels in this important body of water. Perhaps the most worrying example is Lake Victoria. It is Africas largest lake and feeds the Nile River, which spans 11 countries and supports more than 300 million people. Why is this a problem? PFAS are called forever chemicals because they dont break down easily in the environment. They accumulate in organisms over time, moving up the food chain. For humans, this means exposure through fish or water sources, increasing risks of kidney disease, reproductive disorders, miscarriages and developmental issues in children. Ecosystems are also impacted by these chemicals, which affect aquatic biodiversity and food webs. What can be done about it? There are several ways to address PFAS contamination. Strengthening regulations: African countries should align with international frameworks like the Stockholm Convention, a global treaty to eliminate persistent organic pollutants. All 11 of the countries in our study are signatories to the convention. But, given the problems we identified, its clear that enforcement is weak. Stricter regulations are also crucial if producers are to be held accountable for using PFAS and pushed to use safer alternatives. Improving wastewater treatment: There are a number of advanced technologies, such as adsorption and advanced oxidation, that have been proven to effectively remove PFAS from effluents. Wastewater treatment plants in our study countries must be urgently upgraded and begin using such technologies. Raising public awareness: Governments and NGOs should educate consumers about the dangers of long-term exposure via products that contain PFAS, like non-stick cookware. People must also be taught about safer alternatives. Enhancing research and funding: More studies are needed to track PFAS trends on the continent and to evaluate their impacts. Research is key to developing affordable PFAS removal technologies that are tailored to African contexts. Original: https://theconversation.com/forever-chemicals-are-polluting-african-waters-lake-victoria-south-africas-vaal-and-kenyas-nairobi-rivers-are-hotspots-243810 Conversations about life aims to encourage communities of learning. [Shutterstock] By Pedro Tabensky, Director, Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics, Rhodes University https://theconversation.com/universities-must-teach-students-what-freedom-is-a-south-african-course-is-trying-to-do-just-that-239332 A typical student wants a university degree as a ticket to a salary. For this young person, education is a journey towards having. And the way to complete the journey is mainly to remember, repeat or reproduce what the teacher says and does. This having-orientation is understandable given the often precarious realities of life, particularly in the global south, including South Africa, where I am based as a university lecturer. It is understandable, yet it fosters apathy in the classroom, for the monetary aims of students are not typically aligned with the aims of learning. In response to this situation, for a decade Rhodes Universitys Allan Gray Centre for Leadership Ethics has been developing a course called IiNtetho zoBomi, which translates from isiXhosa, one of South Africas languages, as conversations about life. IiNtetho zoBomi is a year-long course offered to all students at the university. Over 2,000 have completed it since its inception. It aims to bridge the gap between character education and vocational education. The course shows students how interrelated reading, writing, thinking and being are. Its an opportunity for students to think about what matters to them and how to live accordingly. We hope they learn to have a say in how their lives will go. We want them to understand how education will equip them for life not just work and promote self-mastery. Ideally, students will realise along the way that self-mastery comes from learning with others in communities of inquiry. With my colleagues at the centre, I wrote about the course in a recent paper, explaining the thinking behind it and how it works. From initial reticence and outright suspicion, the course is starting to receive broad institutional support from academics and management. The idea has been mooted that it should become become a common course for all first-year students. The course has also received an endorsement from educational sociologist Kathy Luckett and feminist philosopher Ann Cahill. In their review of the course they commented that it had developed a unique and powerful form of pedagogy that is clearly speaking to students interests and existential needs, and effectively providing students with capacities that allow them to author their own thoughts and lives. Inquisitiveness versus apathy If a salary is the overriding motive for pursuing higher education, it helps to explain why so many students seem to lack inquisitiveness to seek knowledge, and hence are not in the correct frame of mind required for deep learning and the human growth that comes with the learning mindset. This lack of inquisitiveness is also encouraged by the fact that the global university has primarily become a market service provider. The market wants and needs professionals, and universities provide them. This may not be a problem, unless the professional aspect of human life is separated, as it often is, from the central goal of education: to form well-adjusted, autonomous human beings. This severance between learning for work and learning for life leaves human growth to chance. It fosters the passive absorption of whatever happens to be in the air of the times, instead of the formation of a capacity for critical thinking necessary for autonomy. Contemporary universities presume that if one looks after peoples career concerns, life will look after itself, which is a grave mistake. Conversations about life The course includes student-led lectures, peer dialogues and weekly service learning at local no-fee paying public primary schools. The students also keep journals in which they reflect on their lives in relation to the courses material. We introduce students to ideas such as the existential psychologist Erich Fromms distinction between being and having orientations to education. In other words, a good education helps you to be a certain way, not just to have certain things. Students also learn that to take freedom for granted is to extinguish the possibility of attaining it, as expressed in the documentary Creating Freedom: The Lottery of Birth. This is the idea that people are shaped by circumstances, and understanding how these circumstances shape them is a first step in attaining real freedom. We show this documentary to our students in addition to other movies and documentaries about the weekly topics discussed in class. We encourage students to develop an inner dialogue and understand that they passively absorb much of what their thinking draws on. We challenge students to consider what they see, or fail to see, and how they see it. We invite students to reflect on how external forces like peer pressure and ideology act on them, as do internal forces like the confirmation bias (which motivates us to favour information that confirms what we already believe and to ignore information that doesnt). The following idea frames the content of the course: barriers to acting ethically, indeed to autonomy, are produced by psychological, social and political forces. Then there is the service-learning aspect of Iintetho zoBomi. This is about the students getting involved in communities and learning through one-on-one interactions with children at no-fee primary schools, helping them with English literacy and life orientation-related schoolwork. Our students learn by teaching learners material thats related to IiNtetho zoBomi. Service learning helps bring ideas and experiences together. Responses We are seeing encouraging results in the form of hundreds of unsolicited comments relating to how the course has transformed the lives of our students. Most of these comments come from student reflective journals. Lecturers read the journals as the main form of assessment of IiNtetho zoBomi. Some students even wrote articles in local media about what they had learned. In one of the articles, student Tanatswa Chivhere concludes that: The company has just announced the prices of top-spec variants of BE 6 and XEV 9e Electric Origin SUVs. Along with it, we also saw the bookings and delivery timeline that the company has laid out for Indian SUV buyers. It has to be noted that prices for Pack 2 are still under wraps and only Pack 1 and now Pack 3 prices have unfurled. BE 6 and XEV 9e Top Variants Pricing Lets unpack the prices first, which will dictate the narrative around these products. Dropping the curtains, Mahindra BE 6 Pack 3 is priced at Rs 26.9 lakh (Ex-sh) and XEV 9e Pack 3 at Rs 30.5 lakh (Ex-sh). Pack 3 for both BE 6 and XEV 9e gets all the bells and whistles advertised with these products. When compared to the Pack 1 price announced at Chennai, Pack 3 of BE 6 costs Rs 8 lakh (Ex-sh) more and it is Rs 8.6 lakh (Ex-sh) more with XEV 9e. Pack 2 sits in between Pack 1 and Pack 3 and the prices for it are yet to be announced with both XEV 9e and BE 6. Company also announced exciting financing plans called Three For Me, where EMIs for Pack 3 will be the same for Pack 1. Rs 39,224 for BE 6 and Rs 45,450 for XEV 9e. Starting today, 7th January 2025, prospective buyers can put BE 6 or XEV (or both) in Add Your Preference section in Mahindras app. Bookings will commence on 14th February 2025, which is also Valentines Day. Deliveries for Pack 3 (top-spec variant) with a larger 79 kWh battery of BE 6 and XEV 9e will commence in early March 2025. Bookings and delivery timeline of Pack 1 (base variants) along with pricing, bookings and delivery of Pack 2 (mid variants) of both BE 6 and XEV 9e will be announced in March 2025. Test drives will begin in a phase-wise manner on 14th January in 6 cities, extending to 16 more cities on 24th January and Pan India on 7th February. Where Do They Fit In? Priced at Rs 26.9 lakh (Ex-sh) for BE 6 and Rs 30.5 lakh (Ex-sh) for XEV 9e, both these vehicles have comfortably crossed the thin line that differentiates luxury vehicles from mainstream vehicles. However, the company is also backing their pricing strategies with excellent technology, equipment, features and creature comforts. However, the real question now arises about the choice of fuel. At Rs 30.5 lakh (Ex-sh), the prospect of a luxurious electric vehicle from a mainstream brand is challenged by ICE SUVs with versatility, even from within Mahindras portfolio. Buyers who are satisfied with the 500+ km real-world range promise of BE 6 and XEV 9e are likely to jump ships to the brave new world of EVs. Statement from Mahindra Auto Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., and Joint Managing Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, said, The response to our Electric Origin SUVs has been phenomenal, with customers showing a strong inclination towards high-end technology, and premium features. In response, we will initiate bookings only for the feature-loaded Pack Three in 79 kWh for both BE 6 and XEV 9e on February 14, 2025, which is Valentines Day. With its 79 kWh battery delivering over 500 km of real-world range, customers can be free from range anxiety. Our vision is to make premium EVs mainstream, and with our Three for Me finance program we ensure these vehicles remain accessible, aiming for a total monthly target of 5000 units in Phase 1. As the compact SUV segment continues to register robust growth, delaying new-gen Dusters launch seems a bit surprising Last year in November, the new-gen Duster was spotted on road tests in India. It was expected that the new model will be introduced in India in 2025. However, as per latest information, the new-gen Dusters launch is likely rescheduled for 2026. New Duster India launch timeline During a recent interaction, Managing Director of Renault India, Venkatram Mamillapalle, talked about the companys plans in 2025. Although new-gen Duster launch was not specifically discussed, other information shared by Venkatram provided some strong clues. One of the key developments in 2025 will be the introduction of the next-gen Triber and Kiger in India. Taken together, Triber and Kiger contribute around 80% to the companys overall sales. The new-gen models are expected to get sharper styling and new features to improve their VFM positioning. Venkatram also stated that an all-new SUV will be launched in 2026. This is likely to be the new-gen Duster that is on sale in multiple international markets. The India-spec model could have some differences across equipment list and powertrain options. However, the sporty new look of 3rd-gen Duster will be the same for India in most parts. As may be recalled, it was Renault Duster that had popularized compact SUVs in the Indian market. The first-gen model was introduced in India in 2012 and it continued in the same format till 2022. 2nd-gen Duster was launched in 2017, but it was never introduced in India. With an ageing first-gen model and better equipped rival offerings, Duster sales in India had taken a hit. The SUV was discontinued in India in 2022. New-gen Duster Powerful presence 3rd-gen Duster has undergone a major overhaul in terms of its design and styling. A strong road presence has been achieved with features such as a rugged bumper and thick body cladding. New door trims, roof rails and uniquely designed alloys further enhance the overall look and feel. Some distinctive features are also noticeable such as the Y-shaped lighting elements at the front and rear. The Y-shaped theme can also be seen inside the cabin on the AC vents. Updates on the inside include a new 3-spoke steering wheel. Key features available with the new-gen Duster sold internationally include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. New Duster has cruise control, wireless phone charger, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and premium Arkamys 3D sound system. Safety has been improved with the addition of ADAS. Standard safety kit includes six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system and an electronic parking brake. Performance, specs 3rd-gen Duster has new powertrain options. The mild hybrid variant utilizes a 130 PS 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine in combination with a 48 V mild hybrid setup. The strong hybrid model combines a 140 PS 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors. An LPG option is also available with the 1.2-litre petrol engine. It generates 100 PS and is mated to a 6-speed transmission. It remains to be seen what powertrain options are made available with India-spec new-gen Renault Duster. In a rather interesting turn of events, two Maruti Ertiga taxi vehicles have been found with the same registration plates. This is not a glitch by the Maharashtra RTO Department, but a case of forgery caused by the accused, who have been apprehended. Both vehicles were found parked at Taj Palace hotel in South Mumbai, which led to this confrontation. Two Ertiga Taxi With Same No It all started when complainant Sakir Ali realised that he was being issued with multiple e-challans for frequent traffic violations. These e-challans often have photographic proof of the traffic offending vehicle. And in those e-challans, would be attached pictures of a Maruti Ertiga Taxi with the same registration plates as Sakir Alis. After some time, Sakir Ali felt something was fishy and he pursued the matter. That afternoon, Sakir Ali found another Maruti Ertiga taxi with the same registration plates as his vehicle. Both vehicles were said to be parked at Taj Palace hotel in South Mumbai. Sakir Ali confronted the driver of the imposter vehicle, who was identified to be Prasad Chandrakant Kadam. This 38 year old Navi Mumbai resident is also the owner of said Maruti Ertiga taxi (Ertiga Tour M) which was spotted with forged registration plates. As per the Police, both vehicles were spotted at Taj Palace hotel in South Mumbai, where Sakir Ali confronted Prasad Chandrakant Kadam. Both vehicles were brought to Colaba Police Station and Kadam, the accused, was arrested based on Alis complaint under Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita (BNS). Motive Behind Forgery 38-year old Navi Mumbai resident, Prasad Chandrakant Kadam, was said to be on the verge of evading finance companies and is mentioned to be the primary motive for forgery route. Kadam bought his vehicle on a loan. He simply failed to pay up the fixed EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) on time. To evade this financing company from confiscating his vehicle, Kadam illegally changed his cars registration plates. As per the Police, Kadams Maruti Ertiga had been confiscated before due to pending EMI payments. His vehicle was returned when Kadam managed to give some money to this financing company. To prevent his vehicle from being confiscated again by the financing company, Kadam resorted to illegal measures. With stricter enforcements of HSRP (High Security Registration Plates), these issues might be mitigated to a certain degree. Each vehicle has to be registered online and the HSRP of corresponding vehicle will be issued, thus reducing forgeries. Ukrainian defense forces boast tactical gains amid intense offensive operations in the Kursk region over the past two days. Meanwhile, the Russian troops tried to use Ukrainian maneuvers northeast of Sudzha to initiate attacks in other parts of the area, and also reported long-range strikes in the rear ones. ADVERTISIMENT This is stated by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW) in a report. It expects the Ukrainian Armed Forces to continue to strike Russian rear areas in Kursk region as part of efforts to useuse integrated strike capabilities to support ground operations. Citing geolocation footage from January 5 and 6, analysts point out that Ukrainian forces have advanced northeast of Sudzha: in the southern part of the village of Berdin, and in the central part of Russkoye Porechnoye and Novosotnitsky. The Russian Ministry of Defense and its milbloggers claimed that Russian troops had repelled a Ukrainian platoon-sized mechanized attack in the Berdin area, and that is units, including the Rosgvardia's "Talib" Group, had allegedly repelled Ukrainian assaults in the Novosotnitsky area. Russian military bloggers, taking to social media, tried to convince their compatriots that units of the 30th Motorized Rifle Regiment, the 2nd Spetsnaz Brigade, the 11th Airborne (VDV) Brigade, and Kadyrov's Akhmat special forces had "cleared" the areas in question. One blogger suggested that the Ukrainian attacks in the Kursk region are "enhanced reconnaissance in force operations" that could be a misleading maneuver for future actions. ADVERTISIMENT "Increased Ukrainian offensive operations in Kursk Oblast may be the beginning stages of a concerted Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast or elsewhere in the theater, though ISW is unprepared to offer any specific forecast," ISW analysts emphasized. It is noted that the Russian Armed Forces have been advancing west of Malaya Loknya (northwest of Sudzha) these days. Although pro-war bloggers claimed to have recaptured Leonidovo, as well as advances near Russkoye Porechnoye, Makhnovka, and Dmitryukov, ISW has not found any confirmation of this. According to analysts, the Russian military command has redeployed drone units of the 177th Naval Infantry Regiment (called the "Caspian Flotilla" in the Russian Defense Ministry) from the western part of Zaporizhzhia region to Kursk region. ADVERTISIMENT "Ukrainian forces may be continuing to conduct long-range strikes against Russian rear areas in Kursk Oblast as part of efforts to use integrated strike capabilities to support ground operations," ISW said. Thus, on January 5, explosions were heard near the Russian 3754th Central Aviation Technical Base (military unit 13830) in Kursk. Also these days, Russian bloggers complained about several missile attacks on the front and rear positions of the Russian army in the Kursk region. The operational headquarters of the region allegedly claimed to have destroyed two Ukrainian missiles. "ISW previously assessed that Ukrainian forces may be attempting to integrate longer-range precision strike capabilities and electronic warfare (EW) systems activity to support ground operations," ISW reminded. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The one thousand forty-ninth day of Russia's large-scale war against Ukraine continues. The occupiers are focusing their main efforts on the Pokrovske and Kurakhove directions and in the Kursk region. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in a summary on January 7 as of 16:00. It is noted that 128 combat engagements have taken place at the front since the beginning of the day. Russian shelling The border areas of Ukrainian settlements, including Kucherivka, Slavgorod, Bachevsk in Sumy region, and Semenivka and Halahanivka in Chernihiv region, suffered from Russian artillery shelling. Situation at the frontline In the Kharkiv sector, the Defense Forces repelled three attacks by enemy troops near Tykhy. One combat engagement is still ongoing. In the Kupyansk sector, the enemy tried to advance to our positions in the areas of Holubivka and Petropavlivka three times during the day. ADVERTISIMENT In the Lyman sector, the aggressor increased the number of attacks to nine. It attacked near Novosergiivka, Nadiya, Pershotravneve, Cherneshchyna, Makiivka, Zarichne, Ivanivka, and Terny. Three firefights are currently ongoing. In the Siversk sector, the enemy attacked five times in the direction of Bilohorivka, and one combat engagement is ongoing. In the Kramatorsk sector, our defenders repelled six occupants' attacks in the areas of Vasiukivka, Bondarne, Chasovyi Yar, and Stupochky. Five firefights are still ongoing. In the Toretsk sector, the enemy tried to advance three times in the area of Toretsk. One battle is currently underway. In the Pokrovsk sector, the enemy started clashes of varying intensity 28 times with the support of aviation. Our defenders repelled enemy attacks in the areas of Tarasivka, Vodiane Druhe, Yelizavetivka, Promin, Lysivka, Sukhyi Yar, Zelene, Novyi Trud and Pokrovsk. Currently, five more firefights are ongoing. ADVERTISIMENT Fierce fighting is taking place in the Kurakhove sector. Near Sribne, Andriivka, Kurakhove, and Dachne, our troops repelled 14 enemy attacks during the day. In the Vremivsk sector, the aggressor attacked the positions of our defenders 14 times in the areas of Yantarne, Kostiantynopilske, Novosilka, and Pryvilne, four engagements are still ongoing. In the Prydniprovskyi sector, the Defense Forces repelled two enemy attacks. In the Kursk region, Ukrainian defenders repelled 27 invaders' attacks, in addition, the enemy launched six air strikes, downing 17 drones, and fired 146 artillery rounds, including six from multiple launch rocket systems. ADVERTISIMENT As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Ukrainian Defense Forces have achieved tactical success in the Kursk region over the past two days. This is stated in the report of the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW). According to analysts, Ukrainian troops have resumed offensive operations in at least three areas within the Ukrainian advance in the Kursk region of Russia. Russia is forced to move its units to Kursk to strengthen the grouping. The movement of Russian troops is observed not only in the north of Kharkiv and Sumy regions but also in other areas. Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The images of the last week in Venezuela have become a familiar landscape: uniformed soldiers dressed for combat at the door of a government building, inspections with dogs of cars crossing the toll booths of the main highways, searches in the subway, on buses, on every street corner. Chavismos Big Brother has deployed all its presence ahead of the inauguration on Friday, when a president will be sworn into office in Venezuela. That is the factual data; what will happen exactly remains to be seen. The current president, Nicolas Maduro, has put the entire state apparatus to work for him in order to retain power for another six years, despite the more than unfounded suspicions that he committed electoral fraud on July 28, snatching victory from Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, the opposition candidate who on Monday met with Joe Biden, the outgoing president of the United States, in the White House. Gonzalez wants the United States to help him achieve the restoration of democratic order in Venezuela. This enormous tension is being answered by the Chavistas with a display of weapons. In Caracas, on its outskirts and on the main roads of the country, the military and police presence has multiplied in recent days, although it was already a regular sight since the authorities repressed the protests against Maduros claims of election victory, which he made with support from the National Electoral Council and the Supreme Court, two bodies under the official wing. Maduro regularly gathers his militants at small rallies, and offers televised addresses almost every day, defending the constitutional legality of his government, often accompanied by the countrys military hierarchy and representatives of the public powers, almost all of them members of the PSUV, the official party. Maduro always tries to give the impression that he has complete control over the government. The Chavista bureaucratic apparatus claims that this demonstration of firepower is due to its interest in guaranteeing the safety of the international leaders who will attend the inauguration. In the opposition, Edmundo Gonzalez, who has been living in exile in Spain since shortly after the election, insists that he will return to Venezuela by any means to enforce the result of the polls. This Monday, Maduro held a meeting with the high political-military command at Miraflores Palace, the government residence. The psychological wars they are mounting dont hurt us one little bit (...) not one little bit, he said. The presence of police and military officials in Caracas is particularly visible in the Libertador Municipality, the largest and most important of the five that make up the metropolitan area, seat of the city center and the headquarters of its public powers. The surroundings of the Miraflores Palace, seat of government, and the Federal Legislative Palace, seat of parliament, are occupied. Universidad and Urdaneta Avenues, key roads in the city center, were overflowing with personnel, especially from the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence. On Andres Bello Avenue, and in residential areas such as La Candelaria, El Bosque, Mariperez and San Bernardino, there were pickets of the Bolivarian National Police and the National Guard. Police officers in Caracas, Venezuela, on January 5, 2025. Matias Delacroix (AP) Towards the east of the city, in the municipalities of Chacao, Baruta and El Hatillo, home to many middle-class areas, police pickets are less common. Instead it is common to see rounds of strategic patrols by the Bolivarian Intelligence Service, the political police of Chavismo. The Caracas-La Guaira highway, which connects the capital to the airport and the sea, has been closed for maintenance work. In the southwest, at the Tazon exit, on the way to cities such as Maracay and Valencia, DGCIM officials were recently carrying out a thorough check of passengers at the toll booth, which, according to reports, generated long traffic lines. The policy of increasing the number of police officers on patrol in these days of pre-election tension has been acknowledged and defended quite openly by Diosdado Cabello, Minister of the Interior and Justice, who has spent a significant part of his time working politically to win the affection of the countrys police forces. We are patrolling, as part of our duty, to bring peace to the country, to guarantee peace, Cabello said in a video in which he himself is seen driving a police car in downtown Caracas. Some in the opposition are nervous because there are security measures in place. That is very normal on such an important date as the inauguration. In these procedures, our colleagues from the security forces are doing what is required of public order. A vendor in Caracas on January 5, 2025. Matias Delacroix (AP) The presence of the military is being discussed in the streets in hushed tones and with amazement. It is common for people to exchange tips on how to avoid police checkpoints. I think they are scared, says Yovani Morales, who works as a self-employed electrician and plumber. His opinion is one of the most repeated comments these days in the streets. Edmundo Gonzalez has sent a strong message through a video to the Armed Forces at this delicate political moment, as did Maria Corina Machado, the leader of the opposition, recently. In these defining moments, I address you with the certainty that, together, we will overcome the challenges we face as an institution and as a nation. This January 10, by the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people, I must assume my responsibility as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, with the responsibility of directing our efforts towards a future of well-being and prosperity. The message was described as farcical and ridiculous by Vladimir Padrino Lopez, Minister of Defense, General-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and a key figure in the architecture of power of Chavismo. Padrino addressed the nation on national television accompanied by the High Military Command to offer a new proof of loyalty to Nicolas Maduro and the political project of the Bolivarian revolution, regardless of what the votes and the polls say. Military controls in Caracas on January 4, 2025. Leonardo Fernandez Viloria (REUTERS) Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The murder of Kesaria Abramidze was a devastating blow to Georgias LGBTQ+ community. On September 18, the transgender model and presenter was stabbed multiple times. Neighbors discovered her lifeless body in a pool of blood. The confessed perpetrator, her 26-year-old ex-partner, was arrested and faces up to 20 years in prison. According to posts the victim shared on social media a few months prior, their relationship had been toxic. Abramidze was one of the most prominent public figures in the country, yet even her fame could not shield her from this tragic fate. Reports from local media suggest that her complaints to the authorities may have gone ignored. Activists and the LGBTQ+ community in Georgia are now left grappling with a sobering question: if someone as visible as Kesaria could not be protected, how can the rest of the community survive amid the rising tide of hatred sweeping the nation? Just 24 hours before this brutal crime, the Georgian Parliament approved the Law on Family Values and Protection of Minors, a Draconian measure that bans any public expression deemed to be LGBTQ+ propaganda. The Social Justice Center in Tbilisi condemned the legislation, stating: Political homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia have become central to the governments official discourse and ideology. Kesaria Abramidzes killing cannot be viewed separately from this overall grave context. While Georgian society is largely conservative, progressive legislation enacted over the past two decades had allowed civil society to flourish. Numerous rights and advocacy groups emerged, establishing a foothold in the nation. Tbilisi, in turn, became the regions liberal capital a hub for peace activists from Armenia and Azerbaijan, a haven for exiles fleeing neighboring autocracies, and a rare safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. Even though it was slow, there was progress. We organized festivals, conferences. State policies were updated, and mentions of sexual diversity were added. We worked on training police officers, recalls Mariami Kvaratskhelia, co-founder of Tbilisi Pride and leader of the activist group Queer Initiative. LGBTQ+ people from Iran, Lebanon, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Chechnya came to live here because they felt freer, safer. That sense of safety has vanished. In recent years, hundreds of LGBTQ+ individuals have fled Georgia, and many more are expected to follow if the ruling Georgian Dream party holds on to power. The group was declared the winner of the October 26 election, but the opposition has refused to recognize the result, claiming there was widespread fraud. The Georgian Dream party, led by oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili, has adopted an ultra-conservative agenda modeled after Russia and Hungary, targeting individuals who deviate from heteronormative standards. In 2021, slightly more progressive politicians and leaders abandoned Georgian Dream, and we witnessed a shift toward right-wing policies. By 2023, they had become genuinely radical, explains Kvaratskhelia. The reasons behind this shift vary depending on who you ask. Some point to the governments closer ties with Vladimir Putins Russia; others highlight the need to maintain favor with the influential Georgian Orthodox Church. According to Kvaratskhelia, its also about reframing public discourse to introduce new narratives that help the party cling to power. The result has been a relentless focus on the supposed need to protect families and children from harmful LGBTQ+ propaganda. Mentions of our community were removed from all public policy documents, our events were banned, and the police stopped protecting us, says Kvaratskhelia. In 2021, Tbilisi Pride and other organizations planned a Pride march along Rustaveli Avenue, the citys central thoroughfare. However, the event was violently disrupted by militants from Alt-Info, a far-right channel turned political party accused of being funding from Russia. Anna Tavadze, a queer activist and member of the Shame movement one of the events organizers recalled the chaos: It was horrible, brutal. They started attacking journalists more than 30 were injured. They chased activists back and forth and eventually attacked the offices of Shame and Tbilisi Pride. The police did nothing to stop them. Rather than condemning the violence, then-prime minister Irakli Garibashvili declared that the Pride march itself was unacceptable to most of society. As a result, the following years Pride event was relocated to a remote area of the city and held under heavy security measures. In 2023, activists attempted to replicate the 2022 festival, even inviting foreign diplomats as a precautionary security measure. But, militants from Alt-Info returned, vandalizing stages and setting fire to equipment. The police let the counter-demonstrators get so close that suddenly they started throwing bottles and stones at us, recounts Anna Tavadze. I thought to myself, if I dont escape, theyll kill me. The police then started shouting for us to evacuate, and it became clear that this was a plan to allow Alt-Info to attack the festival. None of the perpetrators have been brought to trial, she adds, which sends the message that attacking queer people comes with no consequences. This year, activists homes have also been targeted. Among those attacked was Kvaratskhelias. In May, her buildings door and floors were plastered with posters displaying her face and name, labeling her as an LGBTQ+ activist and a foreign agent whod sold out. In addition, my girlfriend and I have been subjected to relentless online harassment campaigns, she says. My father, who is battling cancer, has also received multiple intimidating calls demanding he stop me from continuing my activities. Signs targeting queer activist Mariami Kvaratskhelia pasted inside her home by far-right militants. Fear and exile In 2023, the Georgian Dream party was invited to CPAC, the annual conference organized by American ultra-conservative movements, in Budapest. There, it aligned itself with the global anti-gender ideology movement, which led to its expulsion from the Party of European Socialists. Upon their return, Georgian politicians adopted increasingly inflammatory rhetoric. During the last election campaign, Bidzina Ivanishvili absurdly claimed that in the West, minors are forced to participate in orgies during Pride marches and that they want to equate mens and womens milk. Nikoloz Samkharadze, an MP from the ruling party, defends the new family values law, claiming it is not anti-LGBTQ+ but aims to protect minors and prevent gender issues from being taught in schools though such teachings were never part of Georgias curriculum. In reality, the law, which came into force in December, bans any public event or media content that could be perceived as propaganda in favor of the LGBTQ+ community or that portrays homosexuality in a positive light. May 17, recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, has been rebranded in Georgia as the Day of the Sanctity of the Family and Respect for Parents. The law goes further, outlawing any gender-affirming medical interventions, including hormonal treatments, with prison sentences for doctors who perform them. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for the laws withdrawal, stating that it violates the rights to equality, non-discrimination, education, health, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, as well as privacy, liberty and security. Tavadze highlights that the law follows the foreign agents law passed in the spring, which targets organizations that receive donations from abroad. This will jeopardize NGOs that provide critical services to the LGBTQ+ community, including health care, psychosocial support, and the documentation of hate crimes. For our community, NGOs have been the only source of essential services, she says. The activist believes the legislations true aim is to render LGBTQ+ people invisible once again, forcing them back underground. Everyone is afraid, and thats why theyre leaving, laments Kvaratskhelia. Even activists and people working in NGOs are fleeing. Theyre going to Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, the United States... I know this because I receive their messages every day. Still, she adds: There are others of us who stay, and we will continue to fight. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Nancy Baum Nailah Henry Telehealth support and community paramedics have emerged as critical tools in providing immediate crisis care. Jessica Tucelli Valerie Lamper, a clinical social worker at Summit Pointe's First Step Urgent Care, helps deliver crisis mental health care to residents of Calhoun County. Lauren LaPine An operator in the call center at Network 180, Kent County's community mental health agency. Joaquin Guzman and Ovidio Guzman. The future of Los Chapitos remains uncertain. On Tuesday, U.S. authorities and lawyers representing Joaquin El Chapo Guzmans sons requested additional time to finalize plea agreement negotiations. During the latest hearing at the Northern District Court of Illinois in Chicago, both sides emphasized their focus on securing guilty pleas from the defendants to avoid a trial. Prosecutors expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Ovidio Guzman, also known as El Raton, by February 27, the date of the next court hearing. However, discussions regarding Joaquin Guzman, alias El Guero, are expected to take longer, with the next hearing set for March 19. This extension prolongs the speculation over whether the two drug traffickers will engage in formal negotiations with U.S. authorities, potentially cooperating by providing information on other Mexican cartel leaders in exchange for reduced sentences or other legal benefits. Prosecutors said that they are actively collaborating with the legal representatives of the Guzman family and remain optimistic about reaching a plea agreement that would resolve the case without proceeding to trial. However, they noted a significant point of contention: Ovidio Guzman also faces drug trafficking and other charges in New York. Both parties are still negotiating whether the plea deal being arranged in Illinois will also cover the New York case. In the case of Ovidio Guzman, the critical question is whether the prosecution and defense can agree on this issue. Authorities anticipate a decision from the 34-year-old, the youngest member of Los Chapitos, within six weeks. El Raton, a prominent figure in the faction of the Sinaloa Cartel led by El Chapos sons, was apprehended in January 2023 and extradited to the United States in September of the same year. Authorities justified a longer extension in the case of Joaquin Guzman, 38, citing that his negotiations are more recent than those of his brother, Ovidio. Known as El Guero turned himself in on July 25 after arriving at a rural airport near El Paso. He was captured alongside Ismael El Mayo Zambada, a longtime associate of El Chapo. Both Joaquin and Ovidio, along with their brothers Ivan Archivaldo and Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, face charges in the United States for drug trafficking, organized crime, money laundering, and illegal firearms possession. These charges were formally announced in April 2023. The defense team for Los Chapitos had indicated as early as October 21, following Ovidio Guzmans last court hearing in Chicago, that their clients were considering pleading guilty. However, neither Joaquin nor Ovidio attended the most recent hearing, despite being summoned by Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman. Their lead attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, was also absent due to scheduling conflicts, according to judicial sources consulted by EL PAIS. Uncertainty looms over the legal fate of El Chapos sons, compounded by the upcoming presidential transition in the United States under Trump who has promised a tough approach against the cartels and the anticipated shake-up of key federal agencies. In 20 days, we wont know which office is going to do what, said Judge Coleman during the hearing. The phrase I dont understand anything was also heard on a few occasions due to the technical difficulties of establishing a phone link with the Guzmans lawyer, Jeffrey Lichtman. The defendants were not present for the hearing and will be briefed later by their legal team, according to sources. Meanwhile, in Mexico, Joaquin Guzman has been accused by the Attorney Generals Office (FGR) of orchestrating the kidnapping of El Mayo. He has controversially been charged with treason for allegedly turning Zambada over to U.S. authorities. The FGR also announced in late August that it was also investigating Ovidio Guzmans potential role in the alleged plot. However, the Guzman familys lawyers have consistently denied any conspiracy against Zambada, dismissing the accusations as baseless. Since the scandal surrounding the fall of El Mayo, rumors of alleged betrayal within the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the most powerful criminal organizations in the world, have been circulating. Mexican authorities have even adopted this hypothesis as their main line of investigation. Following weeks of tension and fears of revenge, the two families the Guzman and Zambada factions have been embroiled in an internal power struggle over control of the cartel. This conflict has fueled violence in Culiacan, the cartels historic stronghold in northwestern Mexico, since September. Next week, it will be Zambadas turn in court, with a hearing scheduled for January 15 in New York before Judge Brian Cogan, the same judge who sentenced El Chapo to life in prison. Both cases remain far from their final chapters, set against a backdrop of growing diplomatic tensions, escalating violence in Sinaloa, and Trumps looming return to the White House on January 20. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A company that has worked closely with the UK government on artificial intelligence safety, the NHS and education is also developing AI for military drones. The consultancy Faculty AI has experience developing and deploying AI models on to UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles, according to a defence industry partner company. Guardian The luxury tights and lingerie brand Wolford has apologised after heavy criticism from customers over delays to orders and refunds, admitting its delivery services were overstretched. Shoppers have taken to the reviews site Trustpilot to warn others against making orders, with some saying they had waited for more than a month for their goods to arrive and had been unable to obtain a refund. Guardian Britain has become Europes largest electric car market for the first time ever as tough net zero sales targets prompt manufacturers to offer steep discounts. The UK outsold Germany last year and surged ahead of France after a rise in electric vehicles (EV) registrations at the end of 2024. It came as the Government confirmed plans to bring forward Britains petrol and diesel ban from 2035 to 2030. Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, said the plans, which will exempt some hybrid vehicles until 2035, would give confidence to consumers considering making the switch. Telegraph Reforms to encourage Britains multi-employer pension schemes to merge must not go so far that the industry is reduced to a sub-optimal oligopoly, one of the most acquisitive master trusts has warned. Andrew Evans, chief executive of Smart Pension, which after recent acquisitions will soon be looking after the retirement pots of two million people, said it was important that innovative new entrants could still break into the industry. The Times Denise Coates is believed to have received more than 150 million from her familys gambling business, maintaining her position as one of Britains richest executives. The total pay for the joint chief executive of Bet365, based in Stoke-on-Trent, was 158.7 million for the year to the end of last March, newly filed accounts suggest, although that is a significant decrease from 270.7 million the previous year. The Times The sight of migrant children in Mexico is becoming more and more common. As the last transit country on the way to a border that is seen in their imagination as the gateway to a prosperous future, Mexican figures serve to shed light on the shadows of migration statistics. The latest update of 2024 data from government agencies evidences a continued increase in the number of migrant minors registered by the Mexican authorities in recent years. Between January and August 2024, 108,444 minors under 18 years of age were processed in Mexico, an increase of 514% compared to the same period in 2018. The figures are remarkable even compared with the entirety of 2023, when Mexican authorities registered 113,542 undocumented minors. They are a testament to a gradual year-over-year increase with the exception of 2020, when, due to the Covid pandemic, the numbers dropped dramatically before resuming an upward pace. The data are consistent with the enormous overall increase in migrant arrivals in the United States after the Covid pause and throughout the administration of Joe Biden, until the Democratic president tightened the border in the middle of last year. In addition to the skyrocketing numbers of migrant children in transit through Mexico, another notable change is in terms of unaccompanied minors. In 2018, when Donald Trump was in the middle of his first presidency, the majority of minors registered by Mexican authorities were traveling alone and were mainly teenagers, although some were even younger. That trend has been completely reversed: Between January and August 2024, only 4,283 of the more than 100,000 registered minors were traveling alone. This also conceals another fact: last year, children under 11 years old accounted for 72% of all the registered minors, while six years ago they were 43% of the total. The picture these figures paint is consistent with the reality reported from the field: the old figure of the single adult man who has left his family behind has been replaced with entire families migrating together. Girls in a van from the National Migration Institute, on a road in Tapachula, Chiapas, on October 7, 2024. Nayeli Cruz Migration can be a trauma for minors, who are especially vulnerable to many forms of violence along their journey. In light of this, the Mexico City Human Rights Commission (CDHCM) has stressed the need to address the migration phenomenon with a comprehensive and differentiated approach for priority groups, which contributes to improving access to health, education, and recreational services, among others, as well as reducing social conflict. The departure point of migrant minors has changed in the same way as the general trends. Statistics show that six years ago the Northern Triangle of Central AmericaGuatemala, Honduras, and El Salvadorcontributed the vast majority of migrants in transit through Mexico on their way north; these days, Venezuela is the country of origin of most children and adolescents registered by Mexican authorities, and who typically travel with their parents and siblings. The figures speak for themselves: in the first eight months of last year, 46,384 Venezuelan minors were detected crossing Mexico. In 2018, there were only 37. The reasons why so many Venezuelans have left their country in recent years the deep economic and democratic crisis are well documented. It is less clear why entire families are now traveling from all over the region, rather than single adults first who later send for their children, as used to be the case. According to migrant rights groups, there are two main reasons. On the one hand, they say, the crisis is so deep that parents do not want to leave their children behind, as they see no chance for them even in the short term. They feel it is better to try their luck in the jungle and on the dangerous roads to the north than to leave them to their fate with grandparents or other relatives. A Honduran woman and her two children outside a shelter in Ciudad Juarez, on October 12, 2024. Nayeli Cruz On the other hand, several reports cite the false belief that if you travel with children there is a better chance that you will be allowed to stay in the United States permanently. There is no evidence of this in the facts, and with Trumps return to the White House just around the corner, and the hostile environment towards migrants that reached its peak during his first term with the family separation policy, the outlook is not very positive. With Trumps plan for mass deportations and other plans that explicitly seek to discourage migration, it remains to be seen whether the numbers of migrants crossing Mexico on their way to the U.S. will also decrease. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Indian arms of the Big Four Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG have outpaced their global counterparts in revenue growth for the fiscal year 2024 (FY24), driven by high demand in consulting and tech consulting services. At the current rate, their combined revenue is projected to surpass Rs 45,000 crore in FY25. According to industry estimates from two independent professional services firms, the Big Fours Indian operations reported impressive growth, with total revenue reaching an estimated Rs 38,500-38,800 crore for FY24. Globally, the parent firms experienced moderate revenue growth in FY24, with KPMG leading at 5.4%, followed by EY at 3.9%, PwC at 3.7%, and Deloitte at 3.1%. These growth figures, expressed in US dollar terms, were disclosed by the firms. In stark contrast, the Indian subsidiaries performed significantly better. EY India saw a robust 16-17% growth, reaching revenue of more than Rs 13,400 crore. Deloitte India experienced a notable surge of 29%, generating Rs 10,000 crore, including royalty from its global headquarters. PwC India posted a 22% growth, totaling Rs 9,200 crore. KPMG Indias revenue increased by 5.5%-10%, amounting to Rs 5,900-6,200 crore, according to industry insiders. Deloitte India is expecting further growth in FY25, with a forecast of 23-25% revenue expansion. Romal Shetty, CEO of Deloitte South Asia, emphasized that more than 60% of the companys revenue now comes from various consulting services. In fact, the consulting segment has emerged as the primary revenue driver for all the Big Four in India, with a strong focus on management, technology, and risk consulting, which together generated over Rs 25,000 crore in FY24. EY India alone surpassed Rs 8,000 crore in consulting revenues. Looking ahead, consulting revenues for FY25 are expected to rise significantly, with estimates predicting a combined total of Rs 30,000-32,000 crore. As Sanjeev Krishan, PwC India chairperson, stated, the firm remains committed to generating trust and delivering outcomes for clients, with particular focus on climate initiatives, business model reinvention, and capitalizing on opportunities in India, including the expansion of global capability centers (GCCs). EYs GCC segment was particularly strong, surpassing Rs 3,600 crore in FY24, bolstered by significant contributions from mid-market clients and government services. The collapse of EY's Project Everest, a global initiative aimed at separating the firms audit and advisory functions, had no adverse effect on its Indian operations. Despite these challenges, EY India's performance remained robust throughout the fiscal year, as shared with employees during town hall meetings after the closing of FY24. Meanwhile, non-Big Four firms also registered strong growth. Grant Thornton Bharat, for instance, reported a 30% increase in FY24 revenue and anticipates similar growth in FY25, as stated by Milind Kothari, CEO of BDO India. Although growth has slowed compared to the past two yearsattributable to the economic slowdown and base effectsconsulting projects in technology transformation have also cooled. Many corporations have paused tech transformation initiatives due to ongoing economic uncertainties and the complexities of integrating AI, adopting a more cautious approach compared to the post-Covid boom. Among the major revenue streams, tax services remained a steady performer. Collectively, tax services revenue exceeded Rs 6,000 crore across the Big Four in FY24, with EY's tax division, led by Sameer Gupta, surpassing Rs 1,900 crore. Growth in tax services is expected to range from 12% to 23% in FY25, driven by demand for compliance work, Pillar Two assignments, and transfer pricing services. Deloitte anticipates a growth of 22-23% in this segment. In the deals space, including due diligence, corporate finance, valuation, and post-deal structuring, the Big Four firms generated more than Rs 2,800 crore in revenue combined. However, the growth in these areas has been tempered by global uncertainties, with some firms facing growing tension regarding revenue-sharing agreements with partners in other regions, particularly the US. A notable incident that drew attention in September 2024 was the tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, a 26-year-old chartered accountant employed at an EY affiliate. Her mother alleged that an overwhelming workload contributed to her demise, leading to a wider conversation about workplace pressure at the top professional services firms. Looking to the future, the key growth driver for Deloitte, PwC, and EY in FY25 is expected to be the expansion of global capability centers (GCCs) in India, helping clients establish, transition, and manage their operations in the country. Despite this promising outlook, the ongoing friction between the Indian arms of the Big Four and their global counterparts over revenue and profit-sharing arrangements could present challenges. DTX Exchange (DTX) is poised to be the next big thing in the cryptocurrency world, with the mind-blowing presale already raising over $11.33 million. Also, its recent achievement of 450k trader registration has created a stir in the exchange industry before the launch. Because of its novel hybrid trading method and the blend of advanced blockchain technology, DTX Exchange has drawn the interest of the entire crypto community, becoming the top viral altcoin. Many investors are wondering whether DTX will be able to deliver high growth. This guide will analyze three factors that could make DTX Exchange the finest coin in 2025. Multi Asset-Trading Under Single Platform Traders who trade different markets have to switch from one platform to another, which can cause various complexities and operational glitches. However, with DTX Exchanges hybrid trading platform, users can access 120,000+ trading instruments, such as stocks, cryptocurrencies, bonds, forex, and commodities, in a unified platform. Moreover, the traders on the platform have the luxury of 1,000x leverage, meaning that with a $100 fund, they can access liquidity of up to $100,000. Traders can rotate these leverage features in different assets on different market conditions. The non-custodial Phoenix Wallet introduced by DTX Exchange is a safe custody service for various assets that are part of the digital ecosystem. The wallet allows its owners to carry out transactions smoothly and with very little interest for the loans for digital currencies. Fastest Blockchain With 100,000 TPS DTX Exchange is powered by the proprietary layer-1 VulcanX blockchain, which has made significant strides in the decentralized market. In the testnet launch, it has achieved 100,000 Transactions Per Second (TPS), the highest in the industry. VulcanX aims to deliver exceptional speed and efficiency and is capable of tackling the high-volume needs of modern trading markets. This feature simplifies trading for both seasoned and new investors, making DTX a convenient one-stop solution for asset management. The DTX Exchange also promotes decentralized governance, giving DTX token holders an active role in shaping the platforms future through their decisions. Furthermore, this viral altcoin is expanding its ecosystem by launching a Real World Asset (RWA) tokenization platform. The goal of this new platform is to simplify the process of investing in traditionally illiquid assets such as real estate, fine art, and commodities. Record-Breaking Public Presale Performance Most altcoins are backed by Venture Capitalists and Institutional investors, which gives them an edge over retail investors. Once the coin lists are on the market, these big players dump their holdings, crashing the prices and causing huge retailer losses. However, with a public presale model, DTX Exchange provides equal opportunity to all market participants. The DTX presale has produced tremendous results, selling out the first six stages in under two months. During these stages, the token price rose from $0.02 to the current price of $0.14 in the seventh stage, producing a 600% return for early investors. This strong presale performance signals investors' confidence in DTX's potential to transform the trading industry with its unique hybrid model. Conclusion The innovative characteristics and unconventional trading model representing DTX Exchange render it a distinguishing initiative within the cryptocurrency market and the most viral altcoin. The exchange seems poised for rapid growth in the upcoming year, and analysts estimate that its value can increase 80x-100x during the next three quarters of 2025. Investors preferring long-term gain can take part in DTX presale which comes with a hefty discount. IIT Delhi, in collaboration with the I-Hub Foundation for Cobotics (IHFC), hosted a significant event focused on strengthening the India-US strategic partnership. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, highlighted the institutes extensive collaborations with American institutions, emphasizing ongoing bilateral efforts. He noted that out of IIT Delhi's 4,000+ publications last year, over 25% involved international collaborators, with the US contributing the highest share of 8%. Jake Sullivan, US National Security Advisor, delivered a keynote address on 'The United States and India: Building a Shared Future', before an audience that included US Embassy officials, industry representatives, IIT Delhi faculty, and students. His address underscored the progress of the India-US partnership and laid the groundwork for enhanced academic and technological collaborations between the two nations. Dean of Academics, Narayanan D. Kurur, reflected on the significance of US Ambassador Eric Garcetti's first visit and Sullivan's final visit to India as US NSA, marking key moments in this evolving partnership. The event spotlighted IIT Delhi's leadership in cutting-edge research and innovation, with ongoing partnerships with US academia and industry poised for expansion. These collaborations aim to foster greater investment in Indias startup ecosystem and drive joint research initiatives, further strengthening bilateral ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to discuss Indias evolving technological landscape, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, and digital transformation. The meeting highlighted Microsofts deepening engagement with India, particularly in advancing AI-driven solutions to propel the countrys growth and development. Following the discussion, Nadella took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express gratitude for the meeting and praise Modis visionary leadership. He reaffirmed Microsofts commitment to supporting Indias aspirations of becoming an AI-first nation. Modi acknowledged the interaction, emphasizing the importance of their dialogue and welcoming Microsofts initiatives to enhance Indias technological ecosystem. This high-profile meeting underscores Indias ambition to emerge as a global leader in AI and innovation. It follows Modis recent interactions with other industry leaders, including former Infosys CEO Vishal Sikka and Perplexity co-founder Aravind Srinivas. These discussions reflect the governments focus on leveraging technology to drive economic growth and position India as a hub for technological advancements. The Indian government is actively nurturing its AI ecosystem, backed by the Rs 10,372 crore IndiaAI Mission approved in 2024. This initiative aims to support emerging AI startups, facilitate funding, and address sector challenges while developing the necessary infrastructure to propel AI innovation. Projections estimate that Indias generative AI market could grow into a $17 billion opportunity by 2030, further emphasizing the sectors potential. The 38th edition of the International Conference on VLSI Design & 24th International Conference on Embedded Systems, organized by the VLSI Society of India (VSI), was officially inaugurated on 6th January 2025 at The Leela Palace, Bengaluru. The event witnessed the participation of leading semiconductor industry figures and government dignitaries, setting the stage for an exciting exploration of the latest advancements in VLSI and Embedded Systems. The inauguration ceremony kicked off with a grand opening, highlighting the theme 'Silicon Meets AI: Sustainable Innovations in Accelerated Computing, Secure Connectivity & Intelligent Mobility', This theme underscored the crucial role of VLSI and Embedded Systems in shaping the future of transformative technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, and electric vehicles. VLSID 2025 reaffirmed its position as a prestigious global event, attracting over 2700 registrants. The conference featured 18 keynote sessions, 32 tutorials, 74 research papers, 5 expert panel discussions, 16 user design sessions, more than 50 exhibits, 13 industry forum sessions, 15 design contest finalists, and 30 industry sponsors. Among the key highlights of the inauguration was the presence of Dr. Chris Miller, Professor at Tufts University and author of the bestselling book Chip War: The Fight for the Worlds Most Critical Technology. His insights were shared during a fireside chat session titled Chip-Pe-Charcha, moderated by Dr. Satya Gupta, President of VSI. The session proved to be a key attraction, delving into the latest global innovations in semiconductors. One of the sessions key takeaways included discussions around Indias Semiconductor Roadmap, focusing on how the country could position itself as a global leader in semiconductor innovation. This was followed by discussions on cutting-edge research areas such as hardware for machine learning, VLSI for automotive systems, quantum computing, and neuromorphic computing. The session further highlighted the vast opportunities arising from advancements in edge computing, data centers, and compound semiconductors. Dr. Satya Gupta, President of VSI, noted the significance of VLSID 2025 as a unique convergence of global talent and innovation. He emphasized the importance of collaboration across the semiconductor and AI ecosystems in addressing the challenges of the future. Dr. Gupta also highlighted Indias growing prominence in the global semiconductor landscape, noting that the countrys advancements were being closely observed around the world. Patrick Johnson, Senior Corporate Vice President at Microchip Technology and executive chair of the VLSI Design Conference, echoed this sentiment, pointing out the immense potential of integrating silicon with AI. He further remarked that VLSID 2025 presented an ideal platform to explore how these advancements could revolutionize mobility, connectivity, and computing. Sandeep Bharathi, Chief Development Officer at Marvell Technology, shared his thoughts on the emerging semiconductor ecosystem, stressing the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in accelerating design and manufacturing processes. He explained how AI and ML were not only disrupting the semiconductor design ecosystem but also re-defining its very structure. Bharathi emphasized that these technologies were enabling innovators to push the boundaries of what was possible, setting the stage for a new generation of technological breakthroughs. He expressed his excitement about the opportunity provided by VLSID 2025 to explore these advancements in greater depth. Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director at NXP Semiconductors, highlighted the significance of a strong talent pipeline and a thriving startup ecosystem for the future growth and innovation of the semiconductor industry. Garg pointed out the need for programs that foster industry-academia exchanges and provide mentorship opportunities for students and young professionals. He stressed that such programs were essential to maintaining competitiveness in the global market. He also emphasized the value of cross-learning opportunities provided by VLSID 2025, which brought together industry participants, academia, and the startup ecosystem. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A NYPD raid uncovered a large stash of fentanyl and cocaine after the drugs were mailed to a home in Great Kills, authorities allege. An internal U.S. Postal Service investigation into narcotics being shipped in the mail led to the search and seizure of over two kilos of cocaine and about 50 bags of fentanyl, according to a law-enforcement source. Officers from Narcotics Borough Staten Island were among authorities armed with search warrants who swarmed the home on Colon Avenue near Amboy Road on Dec. 27 at about 1:20 p.m., according to the criminal complaint. Police arrested twins Ryan and Richard Gonzalez, 33, and women Chantel Abreu, 31, and Nicolette English, 34, in connection with the raid on their home. In addition to being charged in the December raid, a 15-count indictment against the Gonzalez twins alleges that they peddled heroin and carfentanil, a powerful synthetic opioid, to an undercover officer in August. Court documents allege that some of the drug transactions occurred in the neighboring community of Eltingville. Fentanyl, an opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, has completely saturated the illicit drug market and is linked to most accidental overdoses throughout Staten Island, the rest of New York City and the nation. Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid approximately 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Raid on home Authorities obtained a warrant to search a postal service parcel with a label indicating it was shipped from Aguada, Puerto Rico, to the home of the defendants, according to the complaint. The defendants possessed fentanyl and cocaine with the intent to sell during the raid, the complaint alleges. Officers allege they found items typically used to manufacture and distribute drugs, including packaging, scales and balances. All four of the defendants have been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and criminal use of drug paraphernalia. The twins were indicted on additional charges of criminal sale of a controlled substance. The female defendants do not face that charge. The Gonzalez twins have been remanded to Rikers Island and are due to be arraigned in state Supreme Court in St. George on Wednesday, according to public records. No attorneys are listed in public records for the Gonzalez twins. Abreu and English have pleaded not guilty to all charges, been released on their own recognizance and are scheduled to appear in Criminal Court in St. George on Feb. 25, according to public records. Attorney Marion Campbell, who is representing Abreu, declined to comment at this time. Patrick Parrotta defended the innocence of his client, English. My client, Nicolette English, has not been indicted by the grand jury and, based on the evidence available from the investigation, I intend to resolve her matter in the lower Criminal Court, Parrotta said. r. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. If you have a favorite teacher, you can nominate them for the Big Apple Awards, a citywide recognition program to honor full-time educators in New York City public schools. The awards celebrate and honor teachers who demonstrate strong practices and enrich their school community with rigorous instruction. Last year, 46 winners represented a diversity of grade levels, subject areas and each of the five New York City boroughs. Nominations are open until Jan. 21. Everyone is encouraged to nominate a teacher by completing an online form. Nominees must be current, full-time public school teachers in a district school, charter school, or early childhood education center in New York City who demonstrate exceptional success in the classroom. When choosing someone to nominate, the city Department of Education (DOE) encourages people to think of who has gone above and beyond to serve their students and school community, as the Big Apple Awards recognize and celebrate teachers who make positive differences for all students they teach. In addition to community nominations, the selection process includes recommendations, applicant essays, an interview and a classroom visit. Big Apple Awards recognize and celebrate educators who: Inspire students to be their best selves, dream and advocate for their future Model equitable learning with high expectations for the diverse and dynamic needs of all students Affirm students identities, unique gifts, and genius Enrich their school communities by partnering with families, community members, and community-based organizations Winners are notified of their award in a surprise visit from the chancellor or another school official in the spring. This allows the city to honor and celebrate these exceptional teachers in their teaching environment, sometimes even with their students and colleagues. As a Big Apple Awards Winner, those recognized engage in a unique professional development experience. During the school year, 15 recipients will have the opportunity to apply to participate in the Big Apple Fellowship, which includes engagement in leadership development sessions, professional learning communities, and conversations with the chancellor. Zachary Lombardi, an elementary school arts teacher at PS 29 in Castleton Corners, was chosen as a New York City winner in the prestigious Big Apple Awards program for the 2024-2025 school year. Lombardi was named the Community School District 31 Award Recipient. District 31 encompasses the entirety of Staten Island public schools. Lombardi is one of three arts teachers at PS 29 and teaches visual arts to students of all grade levels. Students at the elementary school receive a multifaceted arts education centered on STREAM (science, technology, robotics, engineering, arts and math) and sustainability. Lombardi is the sustainability coordinator and is a citywide arts education leader, bringing together visual arts teachers from across Staten Island. He also leads citywide arts professional developments for the city DOE arts department in the Division of Teaching and Learning. His visual and digital arts partner, Vicky Stuto, handles the technical aspects of the arts. The pair run a vigorous after-school program and help bolster the schools afternoon English as a New Language program. 12,900 years ago, in the north of what is now the United States, a mammoth was killed by a group of humans who had already begun to colonize America at the end of the Paleolithic period. The vestiges of the beastly scene were etched in stone at the archaeological site of La Prelediscovered in 1986 in the state of Wyomingas well as the settlement of those who killed the animal. At that place, the Paleoindian hunter-gatherers of those high latitudes not only dedicated themselves to capturing animals to eat their meat. They also used their pelts to make clothes, tailored to their bodies, which helped them tolerate the frigid climate of that period. A group of researchers from the University of Wyoming has managed to date the bone needles they used to sew those clothes and have identified the type of animal from which those tools came. Humans hunted animals not only for food and subsistence. They also caught them for other purposes, explains archaeologist Spencer Pelton, lead author of the study published in the journal PLOS ONE. The researchers examined 32 bone fragments, comparing peptides (i.e. short chains of amino acids) from these tools with those of animals that existed during that period. Archaeologists have not identified the materials used to produce them and that limits the understanding of this cultural invention, he adds. The ancient inhabitants of the La Prele site, according to scientists, used the bones of red foxes, mountain lions, lynxes and even hares to make these small tools, which were often sharpened with stones to form a point. Although the authors clarify that no remains of the garments have been preserved, there is indirect evidence of their existence due to the shape of these animal bone needles. Ian Gilligan, a researcher at the University of Sydney (Australia), says it is difficult to imagine that the tools were used for other purposes. They are very fine needles, 1.5 millimetres thick. It is difficult to imagine that they were used for other purposes, such as in the construction of covers for tents, says the author of the book Climate, clothing and agriculture in prehistory, who was not part of the study. Unlike draped garments a single piece of fabric wrapped around the body tailored clothing clings better to the skin, and the seams provide a waterproof and windproof barrier. Luc Doyon, an expert in bone archaeology at the University of Bordeaux, believes the paper accurately describes the origin of the bones using CT scans. Often when we study tools made of bone, antler or ivory, the process erases the characteristics that would allow us to establish the species and the element from which they came, says this expert, who was not involved in the analysis. Other research had already described how eyed sewing needles facilitated the expansion of early Sapiens into southern Siberia 40,000 years ago. Archaeologists, according to Doyon, believed that bone needles were an indicator of the appearance of clothing. However, a recent review proves that this is potentially not the case. A 2018 publication provides evidence of human occupation in mid- and high latitudes before the appearance of garments. In 2022, the expert participated in an analysis of how Homo sapiens sewed their clothes on the Catalan coast, which demonstrates a piercing and suturing technology that would have been as efficient as needles and which predates their first appearance in the archaeological record. The research suggests that clothing enabled modern human dispersal to northern latitudes, which eventually enabled population growth and the subsequent colonization of the American continent. The items were recovered from archaeological excavations conducted by researchers from the Department of Anthropology at the University of Wyoming between 2015 and 2022. We dont have, for example, the skulls, vertebrae, or ribs of cats or dogs, or hairs on site, there are only the needles, stresses Pelton, the author of the research. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. St. Clares Parish, the largest-membership parish in the Archdiocese of New York, will celebrate its centennial this year. To mark the occasion, clergy and parishioners of the Great Kills church have planned a number of celebrations throughout the year. We are excited to be celebrating our 100th year anniversary this year, said the Rev. Arthur Mastrolia, pastor. On New Years Day, we held our first event of year with over 300 parishioners coming together for New Years Mass and a Centennial Kick-Off Brunch. During the brunch, the parish thats dedicated to Clare of Assisi, recognized four lifetime parishioners for their dedication and service -- Deacon Richard Mitchell, Marcella Mitchell (posthumously), Bernice Fisher and Gail LaForge. From the left, Father Arthur Mastrolia, Deacon Richard Mitchell, who received an award for over 30 years of service to St. Clare Parish, and Deacon Richard Salhany, parish manager. (Courtesy/Deacon Richard Salhany)Staten Island Advance Marcella Mitchell was recognized posthumously at the luncheon. (Courtesy/Deacon Richard Salhany)Staten Island Advance Our honorees brought a lifetime of service to the parish and community but more importantly a selfless dedication to the service to the Lord, added Rev. Mastrolia. Father Arthur Mastrolia, left, presents an award to lifelong parishioner Bernice Fisher, 94, along with Michael Gigante. (Courtesy/Deacon Richard Salhany)Staten Island Advance Parishioners of St. Clare's Parish enjoy the celebratory luncheon. (CourtesyDeacon Richard Salnany)Staten Island Advance ORIGINS OR THE PARISH OF ST. CLARE Toward the end of 1917, the Rev. Charles J. Parks of St. Patricks R.C. Church began to establish mission churches on Staten Islands South Shore. St. Clare was one of them. The mission church was originally housed within a rented home on Giffords Lane between Katan and Dewey avenues, according to archivist Greg Patruno. In 1925, St. Clare became an independent parish with the Rev. David C. OConnor named its first pastor. The church continued to flourish, supported by the Presentation Sisters, who taught children during the week. In 1936, St. Clare School opened its doors with an elementary school and Sister Mary Dominic served as its first principal. The parish continued to grow due to population expansion attributed to the opening of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in 1964. The original church was eventually relocated on the property to make room for a 700-seat church built in a traditional Colonial style. In addition, the school underwent two significant expansions to accommodate the growing student body. The parish has additional plans to commemorate this milestone, including a special Lenten Mission. Our Lenten Mission this year will focus on a Jubilee of Virtues with each night focusing on the different virtue ... faith, hope and charity, said Rev. Mastrolia. These are the character virtues we try to instill in all our parishioners and families. Cardinal Timothy Dolan will join the parish for a Centennial Anniversary Mass and a gala will be held during the fall to close out the year. Today, St. Clare remains one of the busiest parishes in the Archdiocese. The church has a vibrant following, growing pre-K and elementary school and flourishing Religious Education Program. 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. Some Central New York students got an extended holiday break after a lake-effect snowstorm canceled school on the first Monday back, capping off two weeks without classes. Camden, in northern Oneida County, was buried under a jaw-dropping 65 inches of snow more than five feet by Sunday during a multiday storm. And the flakes kept falling. A state of emergency was declared in Oneida County on Sunday afternoon. Another lake effect storm has hit Central New York this week, increasing snow totals around the area. Read more: See snow totals for Upstate NYs first storm of 2025: Check out who got 5 feet + (chart) Residents of Camden and surrounding areas bundled up, grabbed their shovels, and shared jaw-dropping photos and videos of the snow on social media. Many shared photos of cars barely visible under towering heaps of snow and asked some jokingly, some seriously if any teenagers wanted to make a little cash by digging out their snow-buried vehicles. Heres a look at some of the wild winter scenes from the weekend. Have photos or videos you want to share? Send to features@nyup.com or tag @newyorkupstate on Instagram or TikTok. @mama.prosser I've lived here my whole life, and let me tell you, winters like this are as rare as my New Years resolutions lasting past January. The last time we had a storm like this, I was still a kid, trying to build the worlds worst snowman. Its been at least 12 years since Mother Nature threw this kind of tantrum! #WinterThrowback #NostalgiaWithFrostbite #SnowMuchFun Storm Coming - Once Monsters Highway crews in Oneida County worked around the clock during a multiday storm which dumped over five feet of snow in some areas. Barneveld Fire Department | Provided photoBarneveld Fire Department | Provided photo Buses for the Camden Central School District were left blanketed by snow after a days-long lake effect snowstorm left Camden, New York and much of the rest of Oneida County bogged down by feet of snow at the start of January 2025. Photo courtesy of Manny VoshayPhoto courtesy of Manny Voshay Buses for the Camden Central School District were left blanketed by snow after a days-long lake effect snowstorm left Camden, New York and much of the rest of Oneida County bogged down by feet of snow at the start of January 2025. Photo courtesy of Manny VoshayPhoto courtesy of Manny Voshay 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. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Still havent gotten an in-person glance at the beauty of Manhattans Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree? Time is running out. But you still have until Saturday, Jan. 11, to get to 30 Rockefeller Plaza (30 Rock). On that day, at 10 p.m., the tree will go dark and the removal process will begin, marking the official end of the holiday season in New York City. Since 2007, retired Rockefeller Center Christmas Trees have been milled into lumber and donated to Habitat for Humanity. This years 74-foot-tall Norway spruce was delivered to NYC from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. The tree is the first to hail from Massachusetts since 1959, according to a Rockefeller Center announcement. It has been lit since Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024. In 1931, during the Great Depression, workers at the Rockefeller Center construction site erected and decorated a small tree, and then lined up at the tree to receive their paychecks thankful to be working at that time. The tree became an annual tradition in 1933, when Rockefeller Center held the first official lighting ceremony. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Monsignor Farrell High School has unveiled a new state-of-the-art mock courtroom for students interested in exploring careers in law, public policy and debate. The high school in Oakwood opened the courtroom during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in December, marking a transformative milestone for the schools Institute for Law & Policy. The new facility serves as the centerpiece for the Institute for Law & Policy, which is a unique high school program offering elective law classes, a lecture series, speech and debate teams, courtroom observations, professional shadowing days, internships and mentorships. (Courtesy/Monsignor Farrell High School)Monsignor Farrell High School This mock courtroom is a tangible representation of our mission, said Lou Tobacco, president of Monsignor Farrell High School. At Farrell, we develop young men of character who are prepared to lead with integrity. Todays gathering of our distinguished alumni, the epitome of mission accomplished, reaffirms our commitment to excellence and service to community. The legacy of Farrell is alive and thriving in this room. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Farrell alumni who serve as leaders in law, public service and judiciary. Among the dignitaries were Borough President Vito Fossella 83, Richmond Surrogate Court Judge Matthew Titone 79, and many other prominent alumni who have made contributions to the legal profession and public policy. This institute is unparalleled in its vision and execution, said Titone. The mock courtroom ensures that Farrell students gain real-world exposure to the law, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to society, and providing them with opportunities that they would not have elsewhere. The new facility serves as the centerpiece for the Institute for Law & Policy, which is a unique high school program offering elective law classes, a lecture series, speech and debate teams, courtroom observations, professional shadowing days, internships and mentorships. The Institute will provide our students the opportunity to learn from their alumni brothers and others in the legal field the skills of logical thinking, precise language, and persuasive argumentation so necessary to be successful lawyers, stated Principal Larry Musanti. More importantly, the strong moral foundation provided by a Farrell education assures that they will be ethical in their pursuit of the law. The newly constructed mock courtroom allows students to participate in mock trials and legislative forums bringing the law to life in a dynamic and immersive environment. This mock courtroom is a tangible representation of our mission, said Lou Tobacco, president of Monsignor Farrell High School.(Courtesy/Monsignor Farrell High School)Monsignor Farrell High School With the support of an alumni network that includes judges, attorneys and public officials, as well as resources from WestLaw Digital Library for legal research, students can gain hands-on experience in areas such as litigation, corporate law, law enforcement and public service. Student Body President James Westgate, lass of 2025, said the new mock courtroom is a game-changer for students. It opens the door to endless opportunities, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the legal field and envision our futures, said Westgate. This is a resource that will inspire us to reach new heights. Fossella reflected on the schools legacy, explaining that Farrell teaches students discipline, leadership and service. This new courtroom is a continuation of that legacy. It gives students the chance to develop skills that will not only shape their careers but also prepare them to serve their communities with distinction, he added. CONTEST WINNERS Sen. Andrew Lanza honored winners of his annual There Ought To Be A Law contest, in which students proposed legislative bills. The contest is a way to recognize students across Staten Island for their excellent work, creativity and passion to improve the borough. Fifth-grade students from schools throughout Staten Island took part in the annual law contest, in which ideas ranged from safeguarding schools, putting an end to bullying, animal safety, public safety and more. Sen. Andrew Lanza recently honored winners of his annual There Ought To Be A Law contest. (Courtesy/Sen. Andrew Lanza's office)Sen. Andrew Lanza's office Each participating school sent submissions to Lanzas office, where winners were selected. Those selected were recognized at a ceremony on Dec. 18 at PS 32 in Great Kills. Congratulations to the students who participated in my annual There Ought to Be a Law contest, said Lanza. Each student submitted an idea for a law that would benefit their community expressing genuine concern for fellow Staten Islanders. The students are observant and exhibited a maturity beyond their years our future will be in good hands! I also want to thank their parents and educators for all of their hard work to ensure our children are reaching their fullest potential. The 2024 There Ought to Be a Law contest winners are: STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Stapleton resident Lorie Honor doesnt understand why Joe Biden wouldnt want to leave office with the legacy of being the president who made the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) law. And shes not alone. Honor is just one of many equal rights activists practically begging Biden to enshrine reproductive rights for millions of women into law by directing the archivist of the United States to certify the Equal Rights Amendment before the end of his presidency. A tiny, tiny percentage of people are not on board with the ERA, and a lot of them are our representatives in Washington, said Honor, who is co-founder of Staten Island Women Who March, and chief of staff for Vote Equality, a national organization whose mission is to bring awareness to the fact that gender equality is not in the U.S. Constitution. So were letting this teeny, tiny, frightened, male-centered minority dictate to the health and welfare of millions and millions of Americans. Equal Rights Activists rally to have the ERA ratified in Manhattan.(Courtesy of Kati Hornung) But there are some politicians, including New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who are publicly asking Biden to make this happen as he leaves the oval office. President Biden has always been an advocate for women, and there is no better way to cement his legacy as president than to certify the Equal Rights Amendment, said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand at a press conference Sunday. During a time when womens rights are under systematic attack, we need the Equal Rights Amendment now more than ever. Today, more than half of all Americans do not have equal protection under the law and do not have access to the full range of reproductive care. Certifying the Equal Rights Amendment will be our best chance to ensure our hard-won civil liberties same-sex marriage, the right to reproductive health care, access to birth control, fertility treatments, contraception cannot be eroded. I strongly urge President Biden to stand with the women of this country and do what is right, she added. President Biden has always been an advocate for women, and there is no better way to cement his legacy as president than to certify the Equal Rights Amendment, said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand at a press conference Sunday. (Photo by Michael Brochstein/Sipa USA via AP) Sipa USA via AP After the Supreme Court issued the Dobbs decision in 2022, many activists have highlighted the importance of publishing the ERA as part of the U.S. Constitution. The amendment would instantly provide the most effective safeguards to post-Dobbs attacks on womens health, and would also serve as a bulwark against a national ban on abortion that President-elect Trump and congressional Republican leaders have threatened to enact, said Gillibrand in a written statement. The ERA is the only constitutional amendment that has met all requirements for ratification yet remains uncertified and unpublished by the archivist, according to Gillibrand. The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) stands as a critical safeguard for womens rights and is particularly significant to the future of women in this country, given the political horizon we are facing with the incoming administration, said New York City Council Member Julie Menin, (D-Manhattan) co-chair of the NYC Councils Womens Caucus. Equal Rights Activists rally to have the ERA ratified in Manhattan.(Courtesy of Kati Hornung) At this critical juncture, we all have a responsibility to the women who came before us to not only uphold and protect the rights secured, but to advance and institutionalize these rights in our government in the form of the Equal Rights Amendment. I am proud to join Senator Gillibrands call for President Biden to direct the archivist to certify the ERA, so it is enshrined in our countrys rights to serve as a bulwark against regressive policies and attacks on womens rights, she added. About the ERA The ERA, written in 1923, promised equal rights for women and to establish the premise that sex-based distinctions in access to reproductive care would be unconstitutional. This means abortion bans would violate a constitutional right to sex equality since such restrictions would single out women for unfair denial of medical treatment based on sex. State-level Equal Rights Amendments have already been passed to provide a constitutional basis for reproductive equality. Proposition 1 -- which aims to protect abortion access in New York and add new protected classes to the states Equal Rights Amendment to prohibit discrimination against any person or group -- passed with nearly two-thirds of New Yorkers voting in favor of the proposal this past November. Equal Rights Activists rally for the ratification of the ERA. From left: Jay Walker, president of Gays Against Guns and co-founder of Queer Liberation March; Kati Hornung, executive director of Vote Equality; Jean Sweeney, member of League of Women Voters; and Lorie Honor, chief of staff, Vote Equality.Courtesy of Jay Walker The ERA was drafted by NYU law grad Crystal Eastman over 100 years ago and unveiled in Seneca Falls, New York in 1923. So, the women of New York and this country have been fighting for over a century to get ourselves into our own constitution. It is now or never. President Biden is the only one who has the powerright nowto put us in the constitution where we belong. It cannot ever truly be the peoples constitution until it reflects all of us, said Kate Kelly, Center for American Progress. Why isnt the ERA in the Constitution? When written in 1923, the ERA promised equal rights for women, but it wasnt until 1972 that Congress proposed the amendment be added to the U.S. Constitution. To be added to the Constitution, however, three-quarters of the states needed to ratify it. And that didnt happen by its legal deadline on June 30, 1982. But several states continued to ratify the ERA despite the passing of the deadline. In 2020, Virginia became the 38th state to approve the amendment. Since then, some lawmakers and many equal rights activists have lobbied for the amendment be added to the Constitution. Former President Donald Trump vetoed the idea in 2020. In early 2020, Trump instructed the archivist not to publish it. Executive permission has to be granted. But at this point, its like a formality, said Honor. President Biden said he would sign it in his first 100 days, but he never did. In a White House memo Biden said: I have been a strong supporter of the ERA ever since I first ran for the Senate as a 29-year-old. We must recognize the clear will of the American people and definitively enshrine the principle of gender equality in the Constitution. It is long past time that we put all doubt to rest. Honor, along with several other Staten Island women, as well as ERA supporters from across the country, have been lobbying to get the ERA signed. Follow Tracey Porpora on Facebook and Bluesky Just days after Joel Kaplan, a former advisor to president George W. Bush and a close associate of President-elect Donald Trump, joined Meta, Mark Zuckerbergs social network made a controversial decision: it ended its fact-checking program. The social media giant will cease using content moderators and, like its competitor X, will instead rely on users to add notes or corrections to posts. Kaplan took over from Nick Clegg, the former British deputy prime minister, as head of global affairs just four days earlier, a move seen as part of Metas efforts to foster closer ties with Trump. Kaplan posted the reasons for the decision on Facebooks blog: In recent years, weve developed increasingly complex systems to manage content across our platforms, partly in response to societal and political pressure to moderate content. This approach has gone too far. As well-intentioned as many of these efforts have been, they have expanded over time to the point where we are making too many mistakes, frustrating our users and too often getting in the way of the free expression we set out to enable. Too much harmless content gets censored, too many people find themselves wrongly locked up in Facebook jail, and we are often too slow to respond when they do. In this way, Meta aligns itself with the model championed by Trump and his recently appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Elon Musk owner of Tesla and X who removed moderation after acquiring the social network. Kaplan has invoked freedom of expression as the rationale behind the move. On platforms where billions of people can have a voice, all the good, bad and ugly is on display. But thats free expression, he said in his post. With that in mind, Meta has announced the end of its third-party fact-checking program, which has been active since 2016, and the shift to community notes. The program originally relied on independent fact-checking organizations to verify, clarify, label, and limit information posted on the social network. Over time, we ended up with too much content being fact checked, said Kaplan. A program intended to inform too often became a tool to censor. Independent verification will be replaced by a system similar to Xs, effectively abandoning content moderation. The new model, called Community Notes, shifts the responsibility of rating posts to users, and requires their collective agreement for any decision to be effective. Starting today, the platform for joining the Community Notes initiative is open on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. It will launch in the United States in the coming months and expand to other countries thereafter. In this way, the system that allowed millions of posts to be deleted (around 1% of content, according to Meta) is being phased out, with the justification that it was limiting legitimate political debate and censoring too much trivial content. The change will primarily impact highly sensitive content, where conspiracy theories and misinformation are a daily occurrence. Were getting rid of a number of restrictions on topics like immigration, gender identity and gender that are the subject of frequent political discourse and debate. Its not right that things can be said on TV or the floor of Congress, but not on our platforms. These policy changes may take a few weeks to be fully implemented, said Metas new global affairs director. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per week Premium Includes: -- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time. -- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content -- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community -- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week! But the source of the Canadian teenagers severe infection is a mystery although genomic analysis showed both she and the Louisiana patient were infected with a strain of the virus associated with wild birds and poultry rather than cows. Experts have said these cases underscore the urgency of staying on top of human cases and the viruss evolutionary dance as it spills between a network of wild and domestic host animals. However, an Australian bird flu guru says the US death hasnt shifted the needle on pandemic risk. How did we get here? Highly pathogenic avian influenza arose in 1997. Human infections are very rare because birds have very different cell receptors to us. But when infections do take hold in people, more than half have turned deadly; 52 per cent of about 900 historical cases were fatal. In 2021, the 2.3. 4.4b clade of the highly pathogenic bird flu H5N1 ripped through global wildlife populations, laying waste to flocks of Chilean pelicans, entire breeding grounds of elephant seals and a critically endangered Bengal tiger. Workers dispose of dead cranes at the Hula Lake conservation area in northern Israel. Bird flu has killed thousands of migratory birds. Credit: AP Australia remains the last bastion free from the scourge of the deadly clade, although experts believe its eventual arrival on our shores is inevitable. In March last year, US scientists detected the virus in Texan dairy cows. Farmworkers (and cats who lapped up the infected cow milk) soon fell ill with the virus. The infections prompted WHOs chief scientist, Dr Jeremy Farrar, to warn that he held enormous concerns about the virus evolving the ability to spread from human to human, rather than one-off infections from sick animals. Loading The virus would have to mutate significantly to gain that ability. It would need to evolve to thrive at a much lower temperature because the inside of a chicken is 8 degrees hotter than a human. At least five genetic tweaks would need to arise at once to make the virus airborne. The virus would also need to bind better to human cells. But Dr Frank Wong, a bird flu expert for WHO from the CSIROs Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, says even the detection of those genetic adaptions hasnt raised the risk profile of bird flu for humans. The risk is serious but were prepared Viral samples from the backyard flock that infected the Louisiana patient didnt contain the same genetic tweaks as the virus that killed the patient. That suggests the virus mutated within the patients body after infection. Scientists suspect the virus only mutated in the Canadian patient after infection, too. Bird flu has torn through hundreds of cattle herds in the US. Credit: AP Thats good news. It means the mutated, human-adapted virus is probably not circulating in the wild. It would be more of a concern if these mutations were present in birds or in animals before it hopped into humans, Wong says. He says news of a patients death is unfortunate, but not unexpected, given that the US has had increasing spillovers between animals like birds or infected dairy cattle. Humans and mammals remain a dead-end host for the virus. Loading Theres still no evidence of infected humans passing it onto their close contacts. The virus is still not able to be transmitted by respiratory means. A bird flu pandemic would be much more severe than COVID-19, going by the historic mortality rate (more than 50 per cent of 900 human cases have been fatal compared to an estimated 3.6 per cent for the ancestral strain of COVID) but were also far more prepared and vigilant. Scientists have been monitoring the virus since 1997. Australia has a stockpile of bird flu vaccines and antivirals ready to roll, boosted by $22.1 million from the government last year. Sufficient doses are available to support an initial response to a pandemic by vaccinating frontline workers and priority populations, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Aged Care said. While acknowledging the US death, they noted the current risk to the Australian population remains very low. But the Louisiana case has illustrated how readily the virus can warp to cause severe disease. UNSW infectious disease expert Professor Raina MacIntyre last year pointed out that the sheer scale of the domineering H5N1 clade, which has infected hundreds of millions of birds and mammals, means the chance of pandemic-causing mutations has never been greater. California recently declared a state of emergency as bird flu tears through 650 of the states dairy herds. We are a little bit concerned with the situation in the US where it has been quite challenging to control the infections in dairy cattle, says Wong. The longer that we allow the virus to carry on in a new host like cattle, we increase the risk of it picking up mutations that we dont want. Even 10 years ago, I thought, any day now Im going to miss out on visiting the last standing traditional milk bar that has developed such a cult following, he said. Eamon Donnelly has spent decades documenting Australian milk bars. Credit: Mark Lobo I went in, it was dark, Mr Fotiou was behind the counter down the back. I think I got a chocolate milkshake and a toasted cheese sandwich with white bread. I sat at the laminex table on the vinyl chair ... and just absorbed it quietly, peacefully. Donnelly, who served as a history consultant on the ABC TV series Back in Time For The Corner Shop, visited the historic Rio Milk Bar in Summer Hill on the same day and met its owner George Poulos, who died the following year. The Rio was later reinvented as a small bar. It was the greatest day in this whole journey, Donnelly said. The Rio was sort of the Olympias little sister, in a way. The Olympias unique features Leonard Janiszewski, social historian and curator at Macquarie University, co-authored Greek Cafes & Milk Bars of Australia with his partner, documentary photographer Effy Alexakis. The Olympia was the last of its kind, Janiszewski said. There was no other milk bar of its vintage, in terms of when it was established and what few changes had taken place, that had been Greek-run. And, indeed, Nicolas Fotiou the last of his kind. Janiszewski and Alexakis had visited Fotiou at the milk bar several times over the years before his death, and the pair has traced Fotious history in Australia from his arrival on board the migrant ship Cyrenia in 1955. Fotious family have said he left the Greek island of Lemnos with his older brother John in 1949. Nicolas worked for a time at the Silver Key Cafe in Wagga Wagga before the brothers reunited in Sydney and took over running the Olympia, which had opened in 1939. Initially, a door, and later a window, connected the milk bar and adjoining Olympia picture theatre, subsequently renamed Olympia De-Luxe. The theatre became a roller-skating rink in the 1960s. John died in 1981. Nicolas kept the Olympia alive, but by the 80s business was declining. Loading Janiszewski said the Olympia had a very unique feature: a row of island mirrors and island service counters behind the front service counter. Those counters, based on an American concept, were used to direct customers to queue for specific products. The island mirrors were still there in Fotious time but behind the pre-fabricated shelves that he had put up. Booth seating was removed in the 1960s. As to plans to revive the milk bar, details are scant beyond the proposed use of the site as food and drink premises. Janiszewski said a business plan was essential. SYDNEYS MILK BARS: A GLOBAL EXPORT The milk bar concept is a fusion between the Greek galactopoleion, which means milk shop and the drugstore soda parlour in the US, said Leonard Janiszewski, social historian and curator at Macquarie University. It was created in Australia by Mick Adams Greek migrant Joachim Tavlaridis and a plaque in Sydneys Martin Place commemorates his Black and White 4d (fourpence) Milk Bar, which opened in 1932. By 1937, there were 4000 milk bars across the country, Janiszewski said. It then went on to be a global export. The focus was on milk shakes; no table service, no food. Milk shakes then were health products with ingredients such as eggs, honey and nuts. You have very limited street trade. They have to have a business plan which is sustainable, not where youre going to have a first run ... of people coming in for nostalgic reasons. It depends how well they bring it back to what it was, or it becomes simply a pastiche of memory that is what they think a milk bar was like, not what it was actually like. Janiszewski said lessons could be learnt from Poland where links had been forged between historic milk bars and museums to provide tours. Offering add-ons, such as hosting a function, but also the creation of books and various paraphernalia like aprons, might also allow the business to become self-sustaining, he said. A rich history of family and survival Illustrator and designer Emma Simmons, co-owner of the Summer Hill art gallery, shop and studio Sweets Workshop, started illustrating Sydney shopfronts and facades in about 2008 as a way of documenting them before they disappeared. Simmons said she had noticed the Olympia - a time capsule - many times while on the bus or driving past, and was drawn to the different textures in the facade, akin to a rich tapestry or a patchwork. Her limited edition art prints of the Olympia struck a chord and sold out, but the illustration is still available on her popular cushion covers. I think its just been a fascination for so many because of the mystery surrounding it, she said. Obviously, there was a rich history of family and survival. The sons of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman are preparing for a hearing that will determine their future. Joaquin and Ovidio Guzman have been summoned to appear before Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman on Tuesday to state whether they maintain their innocence or plead guilty to avoid going to trial in the Northern District Court of Illinois, in Chicago. This is the first time that both brothers, two of the four Chapitos, will have a joint hearing in the United States. On the other side of the border, Ivan Archivaldo and Jesus Alfredo Guzman are fighting a battle against the men of Ismael El Mayo Zambada their fathers former partner for control of the Sinaloa Cartel, which has sown panic and chaos in Culiacan, the stronghold of the criminal organization. Joaquin Guzman Lopez, alias El Guero, unexpectedly turned himself in on July 25 near the border city of El Paso. The 38-year-old drug trafficker was not the only one to disembark from a small plane at a small rural airport in New Mexico; his godfather, El Mayo, did as well. Zambada, co-founder and top boss of the Sinaloa Cartel, had not been arrested in more than five decades of criminal activity, and two weeks later he accused Guzman Lopez of betraying him, kidnapping him and taking him against his will to the United States. The capture marked a milestone in the war on drugs, but it raised tensions with the Mexican government, which was not informed of the arrest until it was made and has since demanded that Washington clarify what happened. The White House has acknowledged that it has been secretly negotiating for years with members of the cartels leadership to seek their surrender, but maintains that it was not aware that El Guero intended to do so. The blind spots in the story of the capture have fueled versions that the fall of El Mayo was a conspiracy by Los Chapitos to benefit Ovidio Guzman El Raton, extradited to the United States in September 2023, and to get Zambada out of the way to gain control of the criminal organization in Mexico. The hypothesis has gained traction among Mexican authorities, who named El Guero as the main suspect in the kidnapping and announced that they were investigating El Ratons possible participation in the plan. The Guzman familys lawyers have been adamant and have denied the alleged betrayal, but the controversy is still very much alive. After a month and a half of tensions, a war broke out in Sinaloa between both factions on September 9. Nearly four months after the beginning of hostilities, more than 600 people have been killed in the state in the northwest of Mexico, according to official data. El Raton, 34, reappeared in Chicago federal court on October 21 for the first time since the arrest of his older brother and El Mayo. At that hearing, Los Chapitos lawyers acknowledged that their clients were considering pleading guilty and had begun talks with the Prosecutors Office over a possible plea deal. A plea bargain does not mean that the Guzman brothers would automatically collaborate with the U.S. justice system, but it brings that possibility closer. In any case, the hearing on January 7 is key to the strategy of their legal team. El Chapos heirs are facing a battery of charges for drug trafficking, money laundering and illegal possession of firearms. Meanwhile, El Mayo is due to have his next hearing in New York a week later, on January 15. The 77-year-old drug lord last appeared in court in October, just a few days before El Raton, visibly diminished physically. His lawyers have not closed the door to any possibility regarding the decision to go to trial or reach a plea bargain with the American justice system. It is expected that at his next appearance before Judge Brian Cogan the same one who sentenced El Chapo to life imprisonment in 2019 there will be a discussion about whether he can have the same legal representative as his son Vicente Zambada Niebla aka Vicentillo. The latter went from being a preferred successor to a protected witness. He was a key figure in the trial against El Chapo Guzman and was released from prison in 2021. This week, however, all eyes are on Los Chapitos, who remain in prison in Chicago, the next scene of Washingtons offensive against the Mexican cartels. The hearing comes two weeks after Donald Trump returns to the White House with the promise of cracking down on organized crime and increasing pressure on the Mexican government to keep the drug traffickers at bay. Two families are at the center of the new crossroads in the two wars being waged against drugs: the one besieging Mexico and the one being fought in the United States courts. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The cost of building a high-speed train line from Sydney to the Central Coast is estimated at up to $32 billion, underscoring the challenges confronting the Albanese government if it presses ahead with ambitious plans to construct a new dedicated link all the way to Newcastle. The cost estimates are contained in confidential modelling done two years ago by the then-Coalition state government as it considered options for building a fast rail line from Sydney northwards. A dedicated fast rail line from a station at Sydney Olympic Park to Gosford via a stop at Epping was estimated to cost between $25 billion to $30 billion, and take up to 12 years to build once planning approval was granted, according to documents marked cabinet in confidence. A render of a high-speed railway station in Australia. Credit: Federal government Another option that involved extending the fast rail line further north to Wyong and Tuggerah was estimated to push the total bill to between $27 billion and $32 billion. The plans were never made public. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rallied Australians against a popular summer target: the wave of cabanas being used by beachgoers to secure prime sandy real estate. Albanese said using cabanas to capture turf without the occupants even being present for hours breached the principle that every Australian owned the countrys beaches. Cabanas are now common on Australias beaches. Credit: Steven Siewert Thats not on, Albanese said on Nines Today show. One of the great things about Australia unlike some parts of the world [where] you go and youve got to pay to go to the beach here, everyone owns the beach. Everyone, he said. And its a place where every Australian is equal. And thats a breach of that principle, really, to think that you can reserve a little spot as just yours. When Israels ambassador to Australia held a press conference in Canberra last month, he heaped praise upon a surprising recipient: his Palestinian counterpart, Izzat Abdulhadi. Amir Maimon said he had lots of respect for Abdulhadi, adding he was very sad that his lengthy tenure as the head of the general delegation of Palestine in Australia was about to end. Hes a wonderful man, Maimon told the reporters gathered at the Israeli embassy on the day the Adass Israel synagogue in Melbourne was firebombed. Izzat Abdulhadis major regret: his tenure ended without Australia recognising Palestinian statehood, despite momentum steadily building for such a move for years within Labor. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen And Im not just saying it because Im a diplomat and you expect diplomats to use nice language. Hes a real fine gentleman. 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 Travellers Holiday Guide to the best of the Pacific. See all stories . Huahine is known for watermelons, Tahaa is known for vanilla, Moorea is known for pineapples, and Bora Bora is known for tourists, says our Moorea safari guide, Gerard Teritahi, rattling off some of the Tahitian islands with part humour, part exasperation. Indeed, Bora Bora is a tourist magnet. Insta videos of thatched bungalows hovering over crystalline water sell the Tahitian island dream, but they fail to showcase the diversity of the 118 islands that make up French Polynesia (with Tahiti just one of those, and Bora Bora another). As a quick geography lesson, French Polynesia, also referred to as the islands of Tahiti, is made up of five archipelagos. There are the Austral Islands in the south, the Tuamotu islands and atolls in the centre, the Gambier Islands in the east, the Marquesas Islands in the north-east, and the Society Islands in the west, which are the tallest and most populated islands in French Polynesia. Some of the outer islands take a week to reach on a bittie boat, but the Society Islands, which encapsulate Tahitis main city of Papeete (and the international airport), make a great starting point for exploring this autonomous territory of France. Moorea is part of the Society Islands archipelago. Tahiti the gateway island First things first, you generally dont go to the islands of Tahiti to visit Papeete, so dont be turned off by the sweltering airport and exhaust fumes that smack you in the face on arrival. Papeete is a business centre that Polynesians from the outer islands typically view as a pitstop for admin days and specialised healthcare, knowing that French Polynesias real beauty and calmness lies elsewhere. Advertisement We come here for work, says our guide, Heimata Tuariihionoau, as he clunks his van into gear and pulls away from the busy arrivals terminal. Hes taking me and my partner on a half-day tour of Tahiti Nui, the large portion of the island of Tahiti (with Tahiti Iti its smaller offshoot, where the Olympic surfing competition took place). Though Heimatas heart lies in his homeland of Huahine (the watermelon island), hes showing us that Tahiti has more to it than offices and an international airport. Huahine is an agricultural island, known for its watermelon fields. Credit: iStock Our tour starts at the sacred Arahurahu marae. A marae is an open-air temple of sorts with platforms and low walls made of coral and volcanic stones, where Polynesians used to worship their gods. When British missionaries came to the islands in 1797, gathering at maraes was forbidden (as were traditional ancestral tattoos, which were revived in the 1980s). This is the point much of the population converted to Christianity, and many still practise today, including Heimata. In contrast to the city and suburbs of the north-west, the eastern side of Tahiti is rugged and rural, and we visit the trois cascades, with a waterfall plunging 100 metres through the forest, a black-sand beach (typical of the island), a grotto and a powerful blowhole. There are no restaurants, hotels or service stations, and this simple way of life is reflected elsewhere in French Polynesia. Good views meet good food The pin-up Tahitian experience is a stay in an overwater bungalow, pioneered in French Polynesia in the 1960s and subsequently cemented as a luxury status symbol around the world. Of course, Bora Bora is the location that commonly springs to mind when overwater bungalow and Tahiti are mentioned together, but youll find these bungalows on other islands too, including Tahaa and Moorea. Luxe overwater bungalows at the Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea. Advertisement We spend two nights in a spacious bungalow at the Sofitel Kia Ora on Moorea, perched above postcard-perfect water animated by colourful marine life. Keen to explore beyond the resort (tempting as it is to stay), we join a lagoon tour with Moorea Fishing Adventures, which, between swimming with turtles and black-tip reef sharks and sipping fresh coconuts, helps us appreciate the islands greater beauty. Our boat skims across water that transitions from aqua to deep blue, gently undulating like a silk bedsheet and twinkling like a disco ball in the sun. On our left, a lace of whitewash fringes the reef that encircles the island, like a tripwire that keeps the wild ocean at bay, and to our right there are jungle-clad mountains so jagged it seems if you ran your finger over the horizon youd cut yourself. A Superior Lagoon bungalow at Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea. After docking back at the Sofitels private jetty, we spend our afternoon with Moorea local Mareva Barbeau from Tahiti Food Tours to explore French Polynesias culinary offering. The signature dish youll find everywhere is poisson cru raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk but we discover a few surprises, including the casse croute chow mein a chow mein (Chinese egg noodle) baguette. This unusual, carb-on-carb dish gives insight into a lesser-known influence on French Polynesian culture (no guessing where the baguette came from) Chinese. A taste of Moorea with Tahiti Food Tours. The Chinese originally came to French Polynesia to work on the sugar cane and cotton fields, and, now, generations of Chinese families have woven their culture into that of the French Europeans and Polynesians, so youll commonly find noodle dishes (including chow mein, sans the bun) and local fruit, like pineapple and small, crunchy Tahitian mangoes, sprinkled with Chinese red plum powder. Go wild Advertisement Though the overwater bungalow is a bucket-list experience for many visiting the islands of Tahiti (and rightly so theres nothing like waking up to glistening, turquoise water on your doorstep), theres something commercial about it, and the clientele are predominantly safe holidaymakers (mostly American) who prioritise Insta over culture. More intrepid souls might prefer to stay in a small guesthouse or pension, which are dotted around the islands. On the island of Raiatea, a 45-minute flight from Papeete, we check into the boutique Raiatea Lodge Hotel, where the sunset spills golden light onto the modern bungalows, scattered across a spacious lawn, then join a guided tour of the UNESCO-recognised Taputapuatea marae. This is the most significant of all of French Polynesias maraes, with Raiatea considered the birthplace of Polynesian culture from New Zealand, to Easter Island, to Hawaii. Taputapuatea marae, French Polynesias most important marae for religious and cultural events. The following day we meet Patricia Hubbard, who moved from France for the island lifestyle, when she and Reno Demahahe the pearl surgeon pick us up in a small tinnie and whisk us a couple of minutes offshore to a small hut in the ocean. This is where we learn about Tahitis famous cultured black pearls, with Reno demonstrating the process of introducing a nucleus into an oyster, which will form the core of a pearl that will take around two years to develop. Anapa Pearls harvests only 10,000 pearls a year (a tiny run compared with some of the larger farms on other islands, which can produce up to 100,000) but they offer the interactive experience of diving for your own pearl. Snorkels on, we plunge off the huts platform into the clear water, looking for two oysters planted by Reno amid the coral. After a few minutes of scouring the seabed we find our prize, and hand our oysters to Reno to see what weve caught. He pries open each shell and makes a small incision to reveal a gleaming purplish pearl, and, though its gimmicky a treasure hunt meets lucky dip were chuffed to take home two Tahitian pearls, just as beautiful as any youd find in a store. Tropical treasure hunt visitors can dive for their own pearl. Very vanilla Advertisement Raiateas neighbour, Tahaa (which is next door to Bora Bora), is just a 10 to 20-minute boat ride across the lagoon. This laidback island has all the community feels, with a close-knit population of just 5000, and a wild interior where vines grow so thick they cloak the trees in deep-green shawls. A ring road follows the islands 70-kilometre perimeter, just metres from the gently lapping sea, where local families wade in the shallows, their clothes bundled under coconut trees. Tahaa is surrounded by a string of small islands known as motu. Credit: Emmanuel Bouvet Though Tahaa doesnt have any public beaches, a lagoon tour will take you to a motu, a small island befitting a movie set, with stereotypical palm trees and water that is gin-clear at the shore, then deepens to bright turquoise and satin blue. About 80 per cent of people living on Tahaa are farmers and the primary crop grown is vanilla, hence Tahaa is nicknamed the vanilla island. We visit a co-operative as part of a 4x4 safari tour to learn about the labour of love required to grow Tahitis large, fragrant vanilla pods (the flowers must be pollinated by hand, given the bees that would typically play this role decided Tahaa wasnt for them). The vanilla island Tahaa. Credit: Gregoire Le Bacon After our tour, we splash about in the ocean in front of our pension, then take a late afternoon stroll down a quiet road to watch the sunset transform into a starry sky. In the stillness, its obvious that Tahaa is not known for tourists. Theyre all on Bora Bora, and the other islands of Tahiti feel like our little secret. The details Advertisement Zelensky and Fridman, who is also a computer scientist, spoke for nearly three hours for the podcasts latest episode, which has amassed 5 million views on YouTube alone. During their conversion, 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 what was then the Soviet Union, was criticised before the interview over his request to carry out the podcast in Russian, which both he and Zelensky can speak fluently. But the Ukrainian president refused to use the language of the aggressor state. Loading 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 Zelensky would have to submit to a deal that not only pleases Ukrainians but also Putin. Unfortunately, the reality is that a compromise is needed in order to reach an agreement, Fridman said. 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? New recruits practise on a military training ground in Chernihiv region, Ukraine, in December. Credit: AP He then attacked the idea of a compromise. Zelensky also sought to correct Fridmans assertion that Putin loves his country. 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. 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. One plan presented by Zelensky to Trump, the president-elect, was for Western governments to release $US300 billion ($480 billion) in frozen Russian assets in order for Kyiv to purchase American weapons, he told Fridman. Trump, his aides and supporters often complain that Washington should not simply hand over weapons to Ukraine for its defence for free. 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, 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. Zelensky and Donald Trump during their meeting at Trump Tower, New York, in September 2024. Credit: AP He said the Wests initial response to the threat of a Russian invasion before February 24, 2022, was bullshit. 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. Loading In a sign of his reliance on Trump to help bring about peace, 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 Trump won the US presidential election 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. He revealed that Trump had assured him their first meeting after the inauguration on January 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 Zelensky. Fridman has continued to face criticism, however, over his framing of questions towards 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. On the eve of President-elect Donald Trump being inaugurated for a second term, his wingman self-perpetuating businessman Elon Musk is proving a worrying curtain-raiser. Since Christmas, Musk has cast a shadow over European politics with salvos on various media sites. He slammed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing him of being complicit in the rape of Britain during his tenure as director of public prosecutions for failing to tackle grooming gangs. Elon Musk on the campaign trail for Donald Trump last year. Credit: AP He also inexplicably turned on a favourite, Nigel Farage, leader of right-wing Reform UK, saying he doesnt have what it takes, and has given his backing to the repulsive jailed right-wing UK activist, Tommy Robinson. Earlier, Musk threw support behind Germanys far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for its anti-immigrant views, as the country goes to the polls next month. The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) has announced a generous $75,000 gift from The Patterson Family Foundation. This remarkable contribution will fund 10 scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year, supporting first-year undergraduate and graduate students aspiring to pursue careers in writing or teaching writing. Each scholarship, valued at $7,500, will provide critical financial aid to full-time students embarking on their academic journeys. The funds aim to empower emerging writers and educators, equipping them with the necessary resources to succeed and inspire future generations. James Patterson, one of the worlds most renowned and bestselling authors, has long championed literacy and education. His Patterson Family Foundation annually funds scholarships at institutions including Vanderbilt University, Manhattan College, and the University of Wisconsin. The foundation also funds Teacher Education Scholarships at several prestigious universities nationwide. UVI is honored to join this distinguished list of institutions supported by Pattersons vision and philanthropy. The University of the Virgin Islands is profoundly grateful to The Patterson Family Foundation for this generous investment in our students and their futures, said UVI President Dr. Safiya George. This gift is a testament to the Foundations commitment to literacy, education, and the power of storytelling, which align seamlessly with UVIs mission to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders. Michael Morsberger, UVIs vice president for Institutional Advancement, shared similar sentiments: Scholarships like these dont just change lives; they change communities. The Patterson Family Foundations support will open doors for students to achieve their dreams and pursue careers that will enrich the cultural and intellectual fabric of the Virgin Islands and beyond. The Patterson Family Foundations gift underscores its dedication to fostering talent and advancing education. Over the years, James Patterson and his foundation have donated millions to promote literacy, fund scholarships, and support educational initiatives worldwide. Back to media releases (https://norgine.com/media) Next media release (https://norgine.com/press_release/norgine-receives-positive-chmp-opinion-recommending-approval-of-npj5008-dantrolene-sodium-hemiheptahydrate-for-the-treatment-of-malignant-hyperthermia/) Norgine today announced that it completed its marketing authorisation application filing to European Medicines Agency (EMA) for eflornithine in high-risk neuroblastoma (HRNB). This follows the submissions in April 2024, via Project Orbis, in Australia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. This milestone further supports Norgine s efforts to give patients access to eflornithine and bring a further treatment option in the field of paediatric oncology. Norgine and USWM, LLC (dba US WorldMeds), a Kentucky-based specialty pharmaceutical company, have an exclusive licensing agreement by which Norgine will register and commercialise eflornithine, also referred to as DFMO, in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. On 13 December 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved eflornithine as the first oral maintenance therapy for HRNB, indicated to reduce the risk of relapse in adult and paediatric patients who have received certain prior therapies.[1] The approval decision was based on findings from a trial comparing outcomes from patients treated with eflornithine in Study 3b (NCT02395666)[2],[4] to control patients derived from Study ANBL0032 (NCT00026312; clinical-trial-derived external control arm)[3],[4]. The study with eflornithine treated patients showed improved event-free survival and overall survival when compared to outcomes for patients with HRNB treated with the standard of care (SoC).[1] Dr David Gillen, Chief Medical Officer at Norgine, added, This submission via the EU Centralised Procedure represents another important step in the regulatory process for eflornithine and further emphasises Norgine s passion and commitment in attempting to secure additional treatment options for patients living with HRNB, a condition with a high level of unmet medical need. Janneke van der Kamp, CEO of Norgine added Submitting this marketing authorisation to the EMA marks a pivotal step for patients facing this challenging cancer. We are committed to advancing innovative therapies that address the unmet needs of young patients and their families, and this milestone brings us closer to offering hope where it s most needed. www.norgine.com Follow @norgine Notes to Editors: HRNB background Children diagnosed with HRNB undergo an intense SoC regimen that still leaves them vulnerable to relapse and death, a risk that is highest for the first two years after completing treatment.[5] Approximately 30% of patients who attain remission following upfront therapy will relapse, and once relapsed, mortality significantly increases with a post-relapse 4-year overall survival of under 10%.[5], [6] Therefore, avoiding relapse is key to long-term survival, yet outside of the United States there are no approved therapies for sustaining remission following SoC treatment. The data demonstrate that using eflornithine after completion of upfront SoC treatment, as post-maintenance therapy extends remission and reduces risk of relapse in patients with HRNB. About Norgine Norgine is a uniquely positioned, specialty pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare company, with over 500 million of annual revenues and a 120-year track record of bringing life-changing products to patients and consumers across our core markets of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Our integrated approach strong commercial capabilities, deep medical, regulatory and clinical expertise, in-house manufacturing, robust supply networks, and best in class enabling functions ensures that we can deliver high-quality, transformative medicines quickly and effectively to over 25 million patients annually. Today s Norgine is a nimble, innovative, and high-performing company that has been transformed by a relentless focus on operational excellence. This focus will enable us to secure the legacy of more than a century of innovation and doing the right thing by our patients, as we push the boundaries and take strides into new therapeutic areas. NORGINE and the sail logo are trademarks of the Norgine group of companies. References 1. FDA approves eflornithine for adult and pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. FDA. News release. 13 December 2023. Available from: FDA approves eflornithine for adult and pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma | FDA (https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-eflornithine-adult-and-pediatric-patients-high-risk-neuroblastoma?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery) 2. Clinical Trial NCT02395666; Preventative trial of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) in high risk patients with neuroblastoma that is in remission. Available from: Study Details | Preventative Trial of Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) in High Risk Patients With Neuroblastoma That is in Remission | ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02395666?term=NCT02395666&rank=1). 3. Clinical Trial NCT00026312; Isotretinoin with or without dinutuximab,[1] aldesleukin, and sargramostim following stem cell transplant in treating patients with neuroblastoma. Available from: Study Details | Isotretinoin With or Without Dinutuximab, Aldesleukin, and Sargramostim Following Stem Cell Transplant in Treating Patients With Neuroblastoma | ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT00026312?term=NCT00026312&rank=1) 4. Oesterheld J, Ferguson W, Kraveka JM, Bergendahl G, Clinch T, Lorenzi E et al. Eflornithine as Postimmunotherapy Maintenance in High-Risk Neuroblastoma: Externally Controlled, Propensity Score-Matched Survival Outcome Comparisons. 2024; 42 (1): 90-102. 5. Basta NO, Halliday GC, Makin G, Birch J, Feltbower R, Bown N, et al. Factors associated with recurrence and survival length following relapse in patients with neuroblastoma. Br J Cancer. 2016;115:1048-57. 6. London WB, Bagatell R, Weigel BJ, Fox E, Guo D, Van Ryn C, et al. Historical time to disease progression and progression-free survival in patients with recurrent/refractory neuroblastoma treated in the modern era on Children s Oncology Group early-phase trials. Cancer. 2017;123:4914-23.[2] Job code: UK-ONC-NP-2400019 Logo https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/597589/4648918/Norgine_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/norgine-submits-marketing-authorisation-application-to-the-european-medicines-agency-for-eflornithine-difluoromethylornithine-dfmo-in-high-risk-neuroblastoma-302343047.html Contact: contact@norgine.com Original-Content von: Norgine, ubermittelt durch news aktuell As part of the EU-funded APRIORA project, drug residues are being analysed. Scientists from the University of Rostock are taking water samples in all weathers. The aim is to use innovative approaches to improve wastewater treatment in Europe. The Warnow seems to be flowing uphill on this cold morning, but it is only the wind that pushes the surface in strong gusts against the direction of flow. This part of the Warnow lies in a nature reserve. The reeds along its banks are home to valuable fauna, birds nest here, and the meadows are a lush green colour even in winter. But the river is not only home to animals and plants, it is also a drinking water reservoir for the city of Rostock. Prof Jens Tranckner and his research assistant Alena Seidenfaden are getting ready to take water samples from the Warnow River at the jetty of the Olympic rowing centre south of Rostock. The two are from the University of Rostock and are involved in the EU-funded APRIORA project. The scientists are analysing the water for drug residues. In Germany alone, 35,000 tonnes of medicines are consumed every year. Many residues find their way back into wastewater through excretion and not all wastewater treatment plants are technically equipped to filter these residues. This means that active pharmaceutical ingredients end up in drinking water. And this is where the APRIORA project comes in. By combining measurements and modelling, the distribution of active substances in the water can be analysed. A detailed risk assessment considers the effects on the aquatic environment, human use and antibiotic resistance. This makes it possible to estimate the individual contribution of each wastewater treatment plant to water pollution. The implementation of the APRIORA tool in the Baltic Sea region promises environmental and health benefits by enabling authorities to take targeted action to minimise risks. Effective cooperation between scientific partners and authorities is ensured through regular exchanges and training. The long-term goal of APRIORA is to contribute to the targeted improvement of wastewater treatment in Europe and possibly to transfer the approach to other substances. Interregional cooperation not only produces directly applicable solutions but also promotes the growing European integration on a scientific and social level. Overall, the APRIORA project shows that cross-border cooperation and an interdisciplinary approach can make a significant contribution to tackling environmental problems. Description of the project: Cohesion policy has defined clear objectives for the 2021-2027 funding period: A smart Europe through innovation, a greener, low-carbon Europe, a more connected Europe, a more social Europe and a Europe that is closer to its citizens. Sustainable challenges are becoming the focus of society, particularly in Germany and its neighbouring countries. The EU4regions project will produce high-quality multimedia and journalistic information on cohesion policy and then disseminate it widely. Within 12 months, Interreg projects from western and eastern Germany and neighbouring countries/regions will be presented to highlight local challenges. The countries concerned are Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands and Denmark. Our thematic focus is on sustainability, whereby we understand sustainability as a whole. Although climate issues are at the centre of attention, they are complemented by economic and social aspects. The aim is to show how EU cohesion policy affects regions and people. EU4regions receives funding from the EU Commission. Contact: EU4Regions-Team EU4Regions@newsaktuell.de Original-Content von: EU4Regions, ubermittelt durch news aktuell U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has doubled down on his expansionist ambitions, openly advocating for the acquisition of Greenland, currently under Danish sovereignty, and regaining control of the Panama Canal. In a press conference held at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, the Republican leader stated that both territories are vital for ensuring U.S. economic security, and did not rule out employing military or economic pressure to achieve these objectives. When pressed on whether he would refrain from such measures against Greenland and Panama once he assumes office on January 20, Trump replied: No, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this: We need them for economic security. The president-elect made the statement on Tuesday, the same day his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., landed on the Danish Arctic island. The visit has fueled intrigue about the administrations plans. On Monday, Trump again promoted the idea in a post on social media: Greenland is a great place, and its people will benefit greatly if and when they become part of our nation, he said. Since his election victory in November, Trump has frequently hinted at this proposal in social media posts and public statements. He has emphasized Greenlands immense natural resources and its strategic importance in countering Russian and Chinese interests in the Arctic a rationale he also highlighted when he first floated the idea during his previous presidency in 2019. In addition to acquiring Greenland, Trump has also suggested the possibility of regaining control of the Panama Canal, citing concerns over Chinas growing influence in Latin America. When Trump first proposed acquiring Greenland in 2019, the idea was swiftly dismissed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who declared: Greenland is not for sale. In response, Trump canceled his planned state visit to Denmark At the time, the proposal seemed far-fetched, but with Trump set to return to office this time with near-absolute power thanks to Republican control of Congress and a deeply conservative Supreme Court the idea appears less implausible. Recent tensions between Denmark and Greenland, a territory of just 57,000 inhabitants, have also made the proposal seem less outlandish. On Tuesday, Danish state radio reported that Trump Jr. landed in Nuuk, Greenlands capital, aboard his fathers private plane, Trump One. During his brief visit, lasting only a few hours, Trump Jr. shared images of Greenlands icy landscapes on X (formerly Twitter), calling the territorys scenery beautiful and joking, Greenland coming in hot ... well, actually, really really cold! Trump Jr. described the trip as a personal tourist visit during a podcast appearance on the Rumble platform, and was accompanied on the trip by pro-Trump activist Charlie Kirk. Greenlands autonomous government emphasized that the visit was private and not official Accordingly, no meetings between the president-elects son and local authorities were planned. Upon arriving in Greenland, a vast territory four times the size of Spain, the Danish prime minister reaffirmed that the island is not for sale, though she acknowledged the possibility of the autonomous territory pursuing independence in the future. Frederiksen emphasized that any decision regarding Greenlands future rests with its residents. My starting point, and that of the government, is very clear: the future of Greenland is decided in Greenland, she stressed. Upon her arrival in Greenland, a territory four times the size of Spain, the Danish prime minister stressed that the island is not for sale, although she acknowledged that it is possible that the autonomous territory could seek independence in the future. In any case, she insisted, the future of Greenland will depend on its residents. The future of Greenland must be decided in Greenland and in no other places, she stressed. We need a very, very close co-operation with the U.S. On the other hand, I would like everyone to respect that Greenlanders are a people. It is their country that is at stake here, she added. Ahead of the visit, Greenlandic Foreign Minister Mininnguaq Kleist issued a welcoming statement: Our country is open for visits, and visitors are welcome in our beautiful country. Greenland, which transitioned from a Danish colony to an autonomous territory in 1953, has seen rising tensions between Nuuk and Copenhagen in recent years, with many residents complaining that the central government has not taken their needs seriously. Denmarks King Frederick X stirred controversy this week by unveiling a new royal coat of arms, the first redesign in 50 years. The updated emblem gives greater prominence to Greenland, symbolized by a bear, and the Faroe Islands, represented by a goat. The move is widely seen as a response to Trumps renewed interest in acquiring Greenland. On his social network, Truth Social, Trump confirmed on Monday that his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., along with various representatives, would visit Greenland on Tuesday to explore some of the most magnificent areas and sights. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World, Trump promised, in the event that the island were to come under U.S. sovereignty. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition SEATTLE, WA, Jan 6, 2025 (ACN Newswire) 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, said 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. For more information, please visit www.spectralcapital.com. 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. CONTACT: Spectral Capital contact@spectralcapital.com KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 22:02 | Others Japan's weather agency warned Tuesday of possible traffic disruptions and avalanches as heavy snow is expected to fall later this week across wide areas of the country. Areas including northern and western Japan could see heavy snow from Wednesday through Friday, with some regions expected to see extremely strong winds with snow, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. If the air is colder than expected, blizzards and especially heavy snow could occur. Snow may accumulate even in low-lying areas in such regions as Chugoku and Shikoku in western Japan and northern Kyushu, the agency said. In some areas in Aomori Prefecture, in the northeastern region of Tohoku, snowfall accumulation was more than twice the annual average after heavy snow during the yearend and New Year holiday period. In the 24 hours through 6 p.m. Wednesday, the Hokuriku and the Tokai regions in central Japan could see up to 70 centimeters of snow, while there may be up to 50 cm in Chugoku, 40 cm in Tohoku, as well as 25 cm in Shikoku and northern Kyushu, according to the agency. In the subsequent 24-hour period, Hokuriku and Tokai could see 70 cm of snow, with 50 cm in Chugoku and 30 cm in Shikoku and northern Kyushu, the agency said. Through Thursday, northern and eastern Japan could see lightning strikes and tornadoes, while eastern and western Japan areas facing the Sea of Japan may see high waves. Related coverage: Mt. Fuji city lost 1 month of winter due to global warming: report Disinformation experts slam Meta decision to end US fact-checking Washington, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Tech giant Meta's shock announcement to end its US fact-checking program triggered scathing criticism Tuesday from disinformation researchers who warned it risked opening the floodgates for proliferating false narratives. Meta Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg announced the company was going to "get rid" of its third-party fact-checkers in the United States, in a sweeping policy shift that analysts saw as an attempt to appease US President-elect Donald Trump. "This is a major step back for content moderation at a time when disinformation and harmful content are evolving faster than ever," said Ross Burley, co-founder of the nonprofit Centre for Information Resilience. Fact-checking and disinformation research have long been a hot-button issue in a hyperpolarized political climate in the United States, with conservative US advocates saying they were a tool to curtail free speech and censor right-wing content. Trump's Republican Party and his billionaire ally Elon Musk -- the owner of social media giant X, formerly Twitter -- have long echoed similar complaints. "While efforts to protect free expression are vital, removing fact-checking without a credible alternative risks opening the floodgates to more harmful narratives," Burley said. "This move seems more about political appeasement than smart policy." As an alternative, Zuckerberg said Meta's platforms, Facebook and Instagram, would use "Community Notes similar to X" in the United States. Community Notes is a crowd-sourced moderation tool that X has promoted as the way for users to add context to posts, but researchers have repeatedly questioned its effectiveness in combating falsehoods. "You wouldn't rely on just anyone to stop your toilet from leaking, but Meta now seeks to rely on just anyone to stop misinformation from spreading on their platforms," Michael Wagner, from the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told AFP. "Asking people, pro bono, to police the false claims that get posted on Meta's multi-billion dollar social media platforms is an abdication of social responsibility." - 'Politics, not policy' - Meta's new approach ignores research that shows "Community Notes users are very much motivated by partisan motives and tend to over-target their political opponents," said Alexios Mantzarlis, director of the Security, Trust, and Safety Initiative at Cornell Tech. Meta's announcement represents a financial setback for its US-based third-party fact-checkers. Meta's program and external grants have been "predominant revenue streams" for global fact-checkers, according to a 2023 survey by the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) of 137 organizations across dozens of countries. The decision will also "hurt social media users who are looking for accurate, reliable information to make decisions about their everyday lives and interactions," said IFCN director Angie Holan. "It's unfortunate that this decision comes in the wake of external political pressure from a new administration and its supporters," Holan added. Aaron Sharockman, executive director of US fact-checking organization PolitiFact, disagreed with the contention that fact-checking was a tool to suppress free speech. The role of US fact-checkers, he said, was to provide "additional speech and context to posts that journalists found to contain misinformation" and it was up to Meta to decide what penalties users faced. "The great thing about free speech is that people are able to disagree about any piece of journalism we post," Sharockman said. "If Meta is upset it created a tool to censor, it should look in the mirror." PolitiFact is one of the early partners who worked with Facebook to launch the fact-checking program in the United States in 2016. AFP also currently works in 26 languages with Facebook's fact-checking program, in which Facebook pays to use fact-checks from around 80 organizations globally on its platform, WhatsApp and on Instagram. In that program, content rated "false" is downgraded in news feeds so fewer people will see it and if someone tries to share that post, they are presented with an article explaining why it is misleading. "The program was by no means perfect, and fact-checkers have no doubt erred in some percentage of their labels," Mantzarlis said. "But we should be clear that Zuckerberg's promise of getting rid of fact-checkers was a choice of politics, not policy." bur-ac/aha Meta N. Korea leader says new hypersonic missile system can deter Pacific 'rivals' Seoul, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un said that a new hypersonic missile system used in a test launch on Monday would help deter the country's rivals in the Pacific, the KCNA state news agency reported. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by KCNA. The test-fire came as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited strategic ally South Korea, a fierce rival of the North, with whom it technically remains at war. In a statement, Kim said the missile flew for 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) -- beyond the 1,100-kilometre (680-mile) figure given by South Korea's military -- and travelled at 12 times the speed of sound before landing in water. "This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said. However, he added that the performance of the missile system "can not be ignored worldwide," saying it can "deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier." "The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said, using the acronym for the North's official name. Blinken and his South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul condemned the launch at a joint news conference, where the outgoing US top diplomat said it showed the importance of deepening a three-way alliance with Japan. Monday's test-fire was North Korea's first since US President-elect Donald Trump won his country's November election. 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). US releases 11 Yemeni detainees from Guantanamo prison Washington, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 The US Defense Department said Monday it had resettled 11 Yemeni detainees from its Guantanamo prison to Oman, leaving 15 people still held at the controversial American base in Cuba. "The United States appreciates the willingness of the government of Oman and other partners to support ongoing US efforts focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility," the Defense Department said in a statement. With the announcement of the 11 Yemenis' release -- which came a week after the Defense Department said it had repatriated another detainee to Tunisia -- 15 remain at Guantanamo, down from a peak of nearly 800. Of them three are eligible for transfer, three are eligible for a review for possible release, seven are facing charges and two have been convicted and sentenced, the Defense Department said. Outgoing President Joe Biden pledged before his election in 2020 to try to shut down Guantanamo, but it remains open with just weeks left in his term. The facility was opened in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks and has been used to indefinitely hold detainees seized during the wars and other operations that followed. The conditions at Guantanamo Bay have prompted consistent outcry from rights groups, and UN experts have condemned it as a site of "unparalleled notoriety." US adds Tencent, CATL to list of 'Chinese military companies' Washington, Jan 6 (AFP) Jan 06, 2025 The US Defense Department has added Chinese tech giant Tencent and battery manufacturer CATL to a list of companies it says are affiliated with Beijing's military. The two firms were included on a list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States that is due to be published Tuesday on the US Federal Register, with copies available for download the day before. Tencent is one of the top players in China's expansive technology sector, operating the WeChat "super-app" with other offerings across gaming, content streaming and cloud services. CATL is also a major firm, producing more than a third of the electric vehicle batteries sold in the world. They have been used in models from a long line of foreign manufacturers including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. A spokesperson for Tencent said the company's inclusion on the list "is clearly a mistake," and that "we are not a military company or supplier." "Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business. We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defense to address any misunderstanding," the spokesperson added. The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2021 required the US defense secretary to identify Chinese military companies operating directly or indirectly in the United States and submit a list to Congress, with the unclassified portion of the list to be published on the Federal Register. The list does not have direct legal implications for the companies in question, but can affect their reputations, and listed firms have sued over their inclusion in the past. The United States considers China its primary rival, and Washington has for years rolled out measures targeting tech companies over national security concerns and fears that technology could be used by Beijing for military purposes. US adds Tencent, CATL to list of 'Chinese military companies' Washington, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 The US Defense Department has added Chinese tech giant Tencent and battery manufacturer CATL to a list of companies it says are affiliated with Beijing's military. Tencent's shares plummeted more than seven percent in Hong Kong on Tuesday, while CATL saw its shares in Shenzhen sink 5.2 percent. The two firms were included on a list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States that is due to be published Tuesday on the US Federal Register, with copies available for download the day before. Tencent is one of the top players in China's expansive technology sector, operating the WeChat "super-app" with other offerings across gaming, content streaming and cloud services. CATL is also a major firm, producing more than a third of the electric vehicle batteries sold in the world. They have been used in models from a long line of foreign manufacturers including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. A spokesperson for Tencent said the company's inclusion on the list "is clearly a mistake," and that "we are not a military company or supplier". "Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business. We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defense to address any misunderstanding," the spokesperson added. CATL also said in a statement that its inclusion on the list was a "mistake." "CATL is not engaged in any military related activities," the firm said. "We welcome responsible discourse on our business operations and take questions about our business seriously," it added. The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2021 required the US defense secretary to identify Chinese military companies operating directly or indirectly in the United States and submit a list to Congress, with the unclassified portion of the list to be published on the Federal Register. The list does not have direct legal implications for the companies in question, but can affect their reputations, and listed firms have sued over their inclusion in the past. The United States considers China its primary rival, and Washington has for years rolled out measures targeting tech companies over national security concerns and fears that technology could be used by Beijing for military purposes. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index opened on Tuesday down nearly one percent. bur-pfc/je/dan Tencent Mercedes-Benz Group BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE AG Volkswagen TOYOTA MOTOR HONDA MOTOR Hyundai Motor Company North Korea's Kim says new missile will deter 'rivals' Seoul, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said a new hypersonic missile system tested this week would help deter the country's Pacific rivals, state media reported Tuesday, as Washington's top diplomat visited the region. The test came two weeks before the inauguration of US president-elect Donald Trump, who has previously tried to woo North Korea, and coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to the South. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by KCNA on Tuesday. KCNA cited the use of a "new compound of carbon fibre" in the missile's engine, which experts warned could allow Pyongyang to hit further targets with technology only the United States, Russia and China currently have access to. The launch also used a "new comprehensive and effective method" for its flight and guidance control system, KCNA said. Blinken on Monday visited strategic ally South Korea, a fierce rival of the North, with whom it technically remains at war. The top US envoy, now in Tokyo, was expected to address issues surrounding Pyongyang in talks with Japan later Tuesday. It was North Korea's first launch since November, when it test-fired what it said was its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). In a statement, Kim said the missile launched Monday flew for 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) -- beyond the 1,100-kilometre figure given by South Korea's military -- and travelled at 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean. "This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said. However, he added that missile's performance could "not be ignored worldwide," saying it was able to "deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier." "The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said, using the acronym for the North's official name. The launch was a clear message to the United States to engage in dialogue based on Pyongyang's new game-changing technology as Trump prepares to enter the White House, analysts said. "It sends a clear message to the Trump administration, suggesting that in order to engage in dialogue, North Korea's strategic position must be acknowledged," Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP. - Kim's daughter watches - Images released by KCNA showed Kim observing the launch with his teenage daughter Ju Ae at an undisclosed location. The location of the test site was also undisclosed, but images showed the missile launching from a remote piece of land surrounded by water on either side and trees stripped because of the winter cold. Analysts said the new missile launch was concerning because it included technology few nations have access to. "What's so alarming about this missile is that this technology is currently possessed only by Russia, China, and the United States," said Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. "What's especially impressive about this technology is that... achieving such speeds requires materials that can withstand extreme conditions." If successful, the launch means North Korea could test for extended ranges, and if it can reach between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometres, "it could threaten not only US forces in Japan but even further targets," Yang added. Blinken and South Korean counterpart Cho Tae-yul condemned the launch at a joint news conference, where the outgoing US top diplomat said it showed the importance of deepening a three-way alliance with Japan. Blinken said Monday that Pyongyang was "already receiving Russian military equipment and training" and warned that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with its ally. 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. KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 23:59 | World, All A magnitude-6.8 earthquake rocked China's Tibet autonomous region Tuesday morning, leaving nearly 130 people dead and 200 injured, with President Xi Jinping ordering all-out rescue efforts, the official Xinhua News Agency said. The 9:05 a.m. temblor struck at a depth of 10 kilometers in remote Tingri county that borders Nepal, according to Chinese authorities. With an average altitude of 4,500 meters, Tingri is home to a base camp for Mt. Everest, the world's highest peak. The Everest scenic area was temporarily closed, Xinhua said. Screenshot of footage from CCTV's online channel shows rubble scattered on roads in the city of Shigatse in China's Tibet autonomous region after a magnitude-6.8 earthquake on Jan. 7, 2025. (Kyodo) Approximately 6,900 people live within a 20-km radius of the epicenter, the news agency said, adding more than 1,000 houses had sustained damage, with some reduced to rubble. Over 3,400 rescue workers have been dispatched to the affected areas, Xinhua said. Images posted on Chinese social media showed damaged buildings and rubble scattered on roads. In Tingri, the temperatures between minus 18 C and minus 14 C are expected over the next three days, Xinhua cited the weather forecast as saying. The 14th Dalai Lama, the current spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism who lives in exile in India, said in a statement that he is "deeply saddened" to learn of the devastating earthquake and offered his prayers for those who have lost their lives. Related coverage: Japan marks 1 year since powerful Noto quake, rebuilding remains slow Post-quake deaths to rise in central Japan as 200 cases await review JAXA to coordinate with private satellites for disaster assessment North Korea's Kim says new missile will deter 'rivals' Seoul, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said a new hypersonic missile system tested this week would help deter the country's Pacific rivals, state media reported Tuesday, as Washington's top diplomat visited the region. The test came two weeks before the inauguration of US president-elect Donald Trump, who previously tried to woo North Korea, and coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to the South. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Tuesday. KCNA cited the use of a "new compound of carbon fibre" in the missile's engine, which experts warned could allow Pyongyang to hit further targets with technology to which only the United States, Russia and China currently have access. The launch also used a "new comprehensive and effective method" for its flight and guidance control system, KCNA said. Blinken visited on Monday strategic ally South Korea, a fierce rival of the North with whom it technically remains at war. The top US envoy, now in Tokyo, was expected to address issues surrounding Pyongyang in talks with Japan. It was North Korea's first launch since November, when it test-fired what it said was its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Kim said in a statement the missile launched on Monday flew for 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) -- beyond the 1,100-kilometre figure given by South Korea's military -- and travelled at 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean. "This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said. However, he added the missile's performance could "not be ignored worldwide", saying it was able to "deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier". "The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated," Kim said, using the acronym for the North's official name. The launch was a message to the United States to engage in dialogue based on Pyongyang's new game-changing technology as Trump prepares to enter the White House, analysts said. "It sends a clear message to the Trump administration, suggesting that in order to engage in dialogue, North Korea's strategic position must be acknowledged," Hong Min, a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP. - Kim's daughter watches - Images released by KCNA showed Kim observing the launch with his teenage daughter Ju Ae at an undisclosed location. The location of the test site was also undisclosed, but images showed the missile launching from a remote piece of land surrounded by water on either side and trees stripped because of the winter cold. Analysts said the new missile launch was concerning because it included technology to which few nations have access. "What's especially impressive about this technology is that... achieving such speeds requires materials that can withstand extreme conditions," said Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. If successful, the launch means North Korea could test for extended ranges and, if it can reach between 3,000 to 5,000 kilometres, "it could threaten not only US forces in Japan but even further targets", Yang said. Blinken condemned the launch and said Pyongyang was "already receiving Russian military equipment and training" and warned that Moscow intended to share advanced space and satellite technology with its ally. US and South Korean intelligence believe that North Korea sent thousands of troops late last year to fight against Ukraine and has already suffered hundreds of casualties. Acting South Korean president Choi Sang-mok criticised Pyongyang's launch at a cabinet meeting Tuesday, calling it a "provocation" and "grave threat to security on the Korean Peninsula". Lee Sung-joon, spokesperson of South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said some of the launch details shared by North Korea, such as the missile's flight range, were inaccurate. "North Korea is highly skilled in propaganda, agitation, and deception. North Korea has frequently made exaggerated claims and announcements," he said on Tuesday. China blasts 'suppression' after US adds Tencent, CATL to military companies list Beijing, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 China on Tuesday accused Washington of "unjustified suppression" after the US Defense Department added tech giant Tencent and battery manufacturer CATL to a list of companies it says are affiliated with Beijing's military. "China is always firmly opposed to the US side's generalisation of the concept of national security, the establishment of various discriminatory lists, the unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises and the curbing of China's high-quality development," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a regular press briefing. The US Defense Department's list does not have direct legal implications for the companies in question, but can affect their reputations, and listed firms have sued over their inclusion in the past. "We urge the US side to immediately correct its wrong practices," Guo said, adding that China would "take the necessary measures to resolutely protect the rights of Chinese companies". Tencent is one of the top players in China's expansive technology sector, operating the WeChat "super-app" with other offerings across gaming, content streaming and cloud services. CATL is also a major firm, producing more than a third of the electric vehicle batteries sold in the world. A spokesperson for Tencent said the company's inclusion on the list "is clearly a mistake", and that "we are not a military company or supplier". CATL also called it a "mistake" and asserted the firm is "not engaged in any military related activities". Tencent's shares plummeted more than seven percent in Hong Kong on Tuesday, while CATL saw its shares in Shenzhen sink 5.2 percent. mya/je/rsc Iran begins military drills near Natanz nuclear site: state media Tehran, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Iran's military has begun drills near the Natanz nuclear enrichment plant in the centre of the country, state media reported Tuesday, as part of exercises planned nationwide. The drills -- dubbed Eqtedar, or "might", in Farsi -- have involved the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the ideological branch of Iran's military, alongside the army. "The first phase of the joint Eqtedar exercises in the air defense zone of the Natanz nuclear facility has commenced under the orders of the air defense headquarters commander," state TV said. It added that IRGC air forces were undertaking "an all-out point defense" of the site "against a multitude of air threats in tough electronic warfare conditions". On Monday, IRGC spokesman Ali Mohammad Naini said the drills, which will also cover other parts of Iran until mid-March, were being conducted in response to "new security threats", without elaborating. Several branches of the IRGC, including the navy and the paramilitary Basij forces, will also take part in the exercises, he added. Last week, US news website Axios reported that White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan had presented President Joe Biden with options for a potential US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities if Tehran moved toward developing a nuclear weapon before January 20, when Donald Trump takes office. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei lambasted the reports, saying threats against the country's nuclear facilities were "a gross violation of international law". Iran maintains that its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes and denies any intention to develop atomic weapons. Iran has in recent years increased its manufacturing of enriched uranium, and it is the only non-nuclear weapons state to possess uranium enriched to 60 percent, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) nuclear watchdog said. That level is well on the way to the 90 percent required for an atomic bomb. Tensions over Iran's nuclear programme soared after the United States, during Trump's first term in office, withdrew from a landmark nuclear deal that offered Tehran sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear ambitions. China blasts US adding Tencent, CATL to military firms list Beijing, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 China on Tuesday accused Washington of "suppression" after the US Defense Department added tech giant Tencent and battery manufacturer CATL to a list of firms it says are affiliated with Beijing's military. Tensions spanning trade and geopolitics have escalated in recent years between the world's two top economies, which are now vying for supremacy in critical high-tech sectors. Tencent and CATL were included on a list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States published on the US Federal Register. The list does not have direct legal implications for the companies in question, but can affect their reputations, and listed firms have sued over their inclusion in the past. Tencent's shares plummeted more than seven percent in Hong Kong on Tuesday, while CATL briefly sank more than five percent in Shenzhen before paring the losses. Beijing blasted Washington's latest move as "unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises" and urged the US to "immediately correct its wrong practices". "China is always firmly opposed to the US side's generalisation of the concept of national security," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a regular press briefing. Tencent is one of the top players in China's expansive technology sector, operating the WeChat "super-app" with other offerings across gaming, content streaming and cloud services. CATL is also a major firm, producing more than a third of the electric vehicle batteries sold in the world. They have been used in models from a long line of foreign manufacturers including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. - US decision a 'mistake' - Tencent said it intends to engage in discussions with US authorities as part of a process "to correct this mistake". It added that Tencent will "undertake legal proceedings" if necessary to remove itself from the list, in a statement published Tuesday on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange website. CATL also said its inclusion on the list was a "mistake" and the company is "not engaged in any military related activities". "We welcome responsible discourse on our business operations and take questions about our business seriously," it added in a statement. The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2021 required the US defense secretary to identify Chinese military companies operating directly or indirectly in the United States and submit a list to Congress, with the unclassified portion of the list to be published on the Federal Register. The United States considers China its primary rival, and Washington has for years rolled out measures targeting tech companies over national security concerns and fears that technology could be used by Beijing for military purposes. bur-pfc/je/rsc Tencent Mercedes-Benz Group BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE AG Volkswagen TOYOTA MOTOR HONDA MOTOR Hyundai Motor Company Swedish navy recovers anchor of tanker suspected of Baltic Sea cable damage Stockholm, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 The Swedish navy said Tuesday it had recovered from the Baltic Sea the anchor of an oil tanker suspected of belonging to Russia's 'shadow fleet' and damaging four underwater telecom cables and one power cable on December 25. Sweden sent a submarine rescue vessel to assist Finland in the investigation last week. "The HMS Belos has located and lifted the anchor and handed it over to Finnish authorities," Swedish navy spokesman Jimmie Adamsson told AFP. The Eagle S, flying the Cook Islands flag, is suspected of having damaged the EstLink 2 electricity cable between Finland and Estonia in the Baltic on December 25, putting it out of action. Finnish police said on December 29 that they had found a trail from the anchor stretching dozens of kilometres (miles) along the seabed. The national energy agency Fingrid said it had requested that authorities seize the tanker. Finnish authorities have banned eight crew from leaving Finnish territory. Finnish customs have said they suspect the tanker, currently located east of Helsinki, is part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" -- ships that carry Russian crude oil and petroleum products that are embargoed over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Finnish telecom operator Elisa said Monday that two of the damaged telecom cables had been repaired. The Estlink 2 power cable has not yet been repaired. According to operator Cinia, one of the remaining telecoms cables -- running between Finland and Germany -- should be fixed by January 10. In late December, NATO announced it would strengthen its military presence in the Baltic after similar incidents there since Russia's 2022 invasion. Energy and communications infrastructure in particular have been targeted as part of what experts and politicians call Russia's "hybrid war" with Western countries. The Baltic is surrounded by a number of NATO member states. Two telecommunications cables were cut on November 17 and 18 in Swedish territorial waters. A Chinese-flagged bulk carrier, the Yi Peng 3 is suspected of involvement. Erdogan warns no place for 'terrorist' groups in Syria Istanbul, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday said there was no place for "terrorist organisations" in Syria under its new Islamist leaders, in a warning regarding Kurdish forces there. The fall of Syrian strongman Bashar al-Assad last month raised the prospect of Turkey intervening in the country against Kurdish forces accused by Ankara of links to armed separatists. Erdogan's comment came during a meeting in Ankara with the prime minister of Iraq's Kurdish region, Masrour Barzani, the Turkish leader's office said in a statement. Erdogan told Barzani that Turkey was working to prevent the ousting of Assad in neighbouring Syria from causing new instability in the region. There is no place for "terrorist organisations or affiliated elements in the future of the new Syria," Erdogan said. Ankara accuses one leading Kurdish force in Syria, the People's Protection Units (YPG), of links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Turkey. The PKK has fought a decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state and is banned as a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies. The Turkish military regularly launches strikes against Kurdish fighters in Syria and neighbouring Iraq, accusing them of PKK links. On Monday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said: "The elimination of the PKK/YPG is only a matter of time." He cited a call by Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose HTS group has long had ties with Turkey, for the Kurdish-led forces to be integrated into Syria's national army. The United States has backed the YPG in its fight against the jihadist movement Islamic State (IS), which has been largely crushed in its former Syrian stronghold. But Fidan warned that Western countries should not use the threat of IS as "a pretext to strengthen the PKK". Chad president says Macron 'in wrong era' over remarks on troop withdrawals N'Djamena, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Chad's president on Tuesday accused Emmanuel Macron of being "in the wrong era" after the French president said African countries "forgot to say thank you" for France's military deployment in the Sahel region to fight an Islamist insurgency. "I'd like to express my outrage regarding recent remarks by President Macron which border on contempt for Africa and Africans. I think he is in the wrong era," President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said in a speech at the presidential palace published on the presidency Facebook page. France in 2013 began a military operation in Mali and the Sahel region to fight Islamist insurgents. "I think that they forgot to say 'thank you'. It does not matter, it will come with time," Macron said in a speech to French ambassadors on Monday. "We did the right thing," he said of the military deployment, adding that "none" of the states of the Sahel region would be "sovereign" today without that intervention. France is now reconfiguring its military presence in Africa after being driven out of three Sahelian countries governed by juntas hostile to Paris -- Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Senegal and the Ivory Coast have also asked France to leave military bases on their territory. At the end of November, Chad -- which hosted Paris's last military bases in the Sahel -- ended the defence and security agreements that linked it with the former colonial power, saying they were "obsolete". Around 1,000 French military personnel were stationed in the country and are in the process of being withdrawn. Deby, 40, who won a five-year presidential mandate last May in a vote the opposition denounced as fraudulent, said "the decision to end the military cooperation agreement with France is entirely a sovereign decision of Chad. "There is no ambiguity in this," he said. US says kills 10 Al-Shabaab fighters in Somalia air strike Nairobi, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 The United States conducted an air strike in southern Somalia, killing 10 members of the Al-Shabaab jihadist group, US military authorities said Tuesday. The Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab has been waging a bloody insurgency against Somalia's fragile federal government for more than 17 years. The raid took place on December 31 in Beer Xaani, roughly 35 kilometres (21 miles)from the port city of Kismayo town, the United States Africa Command (US AFRICOM) said in a statement. It was conducted "at the request" of the Somali government, AFRICOM said. "The initial post-strike assessment indicated the air strike killed 10 Al-Shabaab militants while no civilians were harmed," it said. The strike on Al-Shabaab follows an attack by the Islamic State group to the country's north, which was repelled by government forces. AFRICOM will "continue to assess the results of this air strike and will provide additional information as appropriate". Al-Shabaab carried out numerous attacks in the capital Mogadishu and other parts of the country last year, while the government pressed on with an offensive aimed at eradicating the jihadists. Washington has invested massively for several decades in the fight against the armed rebellion. During his first term, US President-elect Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of US troops from Somalia, a decision reversed by his successor Joe Biden. Somalia is one of the poorest nations on the planet, enduring decades of civil war and frequent climate disasters in addition to jihadist violence. Swedish navy recovers anchor of tanker suspected of Baltic Sea cable damage Stockholm, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Sweden said Tuesday that its navy had recovered the anchor of an alleged Russian "shadow fleet" oil tanker, which is suspected of damaging telecom and power cables on the floor of the Baltic Sea. On December 25, the EstLink 2 electricity cable and four telecom cables that lie on the seafloor linking Finland and Estonia went offline after suspected sabotage. The incident occurred just weeks after other cables in the Baltic sea were severed in similar incidents that experts and politicians say are part of a hybrid war between Russia and Western countries. Suspicion over the December 25 incident has fallen on the Eagle S, an oil tanker flying the Cook Islands flag and that's thought to be part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" -- ships that carry Russian crude oil and petroleum products, which are embargoed over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Finnish police said on December 29 that they had found a drag trail stretching dozens of kilometres (miles) along the seabed. Investigators suspect that the cables were damaged after the tanker's anchor was dragged over them. Sweden last week sent a submarine rescue vessel to assist Finland in the investigation and on Tuesday said that the anchor had been recovered. "The HMS Belos has located and lifted the anchor and handed it over to Finnish authorities," Swedish navy spokesman Jimmie Adamsson told AFP. Finnish police said in a statement on Tuesday that the anchor had been retrieved in the afternoon on Monday. Finland seized the tanker on December 28 and has banned eight crew members from leaving Finnish territory. Finnish customs have said they suspect the tanker, currently located east of Helsinki, is part of Russia's so-called "shadow fleet". Finnish telecom operator Elisa said Monday that two of the four damaged telecom cables had been repaired. On Tuesday, a telecom cable running between Finland and Germany, which was damaged in a separate incident, had also been restored, operator Cinia said. The Estlink 2 power cable has not yet been repaired. In late December, NATO announced it would strengthen its military presence in the Baltic after similar incidents there since Russia's 2022 invasion. The British-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) announced Monday it would increase its surveillance of undersea infrastructure in the Baltic Sea in response to recent events. Energy and communications infrastructure in particular have been targeted as part of what experts and politicians call Russia's "hybrid war" with Western countries. The Baltic is surrounded by a number of NATO member states. Two telecommunications cables were cut on November 17 and 18 in Swedish territorial waters. A Chinese-flagged bulk carrier, the Yi Peng 3 is suspected of involvement. KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 18:14 | All, World The ballistic missile launched by North Korea on Monday was a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile and it successfully flew 1,500 kilometers to a simulated target at sea, the country's official media reported. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who oversaw the test together with his daughter through a monitoring system, was quoted by the Korean Central News Agency on Tuesday as saying the test-firing of the new missile was "mainly aimed to steadily put the country's nuclear war deterrent on an advanced basis." The Japanese Defense Ministry and the South Korean military have said the missile was launched from an inland area of North Korea toward the Sea of Japan. The missile test, Pyongyang's first in about two months, came as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul for talks with his counterpart over the North Korean missile and nuclear threat. It also occurred two weeks before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. The missile, launched northeastward from a suburb of Pyongyang, reached a maximum altitude of around 100 kilometers and flew at 12 times the speed of sound, KCNA reported. The test proved that Pyongyang is developing an intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile "to cope with different security threats the hostile forces posed to our state at present," KCNA said, adding it will "reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region." But the South Korean military said North Korea's claims could be a "deception," raising questions about the distance the missile flew and other specifications, according to South Korea's Yonhap News Agency. A new compound of carbon fiber was used to manufacture the engine body of the missile and the system "can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," the KCNA report said. South Korean military analysts have suggested the hypersonic weapon was equipped with a solid-fuel engine. Kim had pledged to adopt "the toughest anti-U.S. counteraction" strategy at a meeting of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea late last month, according to KCNA. Related coverage: North Korea fires suspected hypersonic missile: South Korean sources North Korea launches short-range missiles ahead of U.S. election 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 On Monday, European leaders also added to criticism of the X social media site owner, with Frances Emmanuel Macron saying: Who would have thought, if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support the new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections." KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 17:49 | All, Japan Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday strongly condemned North Korea's latest ballistic missile launch, while reaffirming the importance of their trilateral cooperation with South Korea. At their meeting in Tokyo, Iwaya and Blinken also agreed the two governments will continue to work closely together to maintain and reinforce their bilateral collaboration, Japan's Foreign Ministry said, ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Expressing his gratitude to Blinken for his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties during his four-year tenure, Iwaya said at the outset of the talks that he hopes to keep raising the Japan-U.S. alliance to "new heights." The meeting was held a day after North Korea fired what its official Korean Central News Agency said was a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that successfully flew 1,500 kilometers to a simulated target at sea. Referring to the missile test by Pyongyang, Blinken said Tokyo and Washington need to keep cooperating in various fields, such as national security and the economy, even after the transition of power in the United States. The two ministers also pledged to boost the deterrence and response capabilities of their alliance and exchanged views on issues related to China, as well as the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, according to the Japanese ministry. Before his trip to Japan, Blinken visited South Korea to meet with his counterpart Cho Tae Yul, amid political turmoil in Seoul following President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived declaration of martial law in December that resulted in an impeachment motion against him being passed by parliament. Related coverage: North Korea claims successful test-firing of new hypersonic missile North Korea fires suspected hypersonic missile: South Korean sources It listed six locations where it said its forces had defeated Ukrainian brigades, and seven more, including one on the Ukrainian side of the border, where it said it had carried out strikes on Ukrainian troops and equipment. 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 said. More than 36,000 people also crossed the Channel in small boats in 2024, with nearly 80 individuals, including some children, drowning after vessels took on water, capsized or sunk, making it the deadliest year so far for such crossings. KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 16:29 | All, Japan The Japanese government is likely to soon replace national security adviser Takeo Akiba with Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano, government sources said Tuesday. Okano, 60, will coordinate the country's diplomatic and security policies, including those related to Japan's key security ally the United States, after he is formally named secretary general of the National Security Secretariat under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Tokyo has decided on the change ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Ishiba, who took office in October, seeks to visit the United States later this year to hold his first in-person talks with Trump. Okano is also expected to make efforts to improve Japan's relations with China, as the incoming Trump administration is expected to pursue its "America First" policy and take a tough stance against the Communist-led government. Moreover, Okano will play a key role in introducing "active cyber defense," an approach aimed at monitoring and detecting signs of cyberattacks and, if necessary, disrupting enemy servers with computer viruses to neutralize them, the sources said. Okano, currently the top bureaucrat at the Foreign Ministry, held key government posts under Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Ishiba's predecessor, serving as chief of the ministry's Foreign Policy Bureau and assistant chief Cabinet secretary. Akiba, also a former vice foreign minister, assumed his current post in July 2021 under Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and led the compilation of three key documents in December 2022 outlining Japan's fundamental national security strategy over the following 10 years. The government is considering appointing Takehiro Funakoshi to succeed Okano as vice foreign minister, the sources said. Funakoshi is currently serving as senior deputy foreign minister for political affairs. Related coverage: FOCUS: Increased defense spending pledge taxing Japan's strained coffers FOCUS: Japan may see Trump, South Korean political chaos sour 3-way ties Top Japan defense firms saw revenue increase 35% in 2023: think tank KYODO NEWS - Jan 7, 2025 - 18:38 | World, All, Japan Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his Indonesian counterpart Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin on Tuesday discussed the possible joint development of a naval ship as the two countries aim to strengthen their maritime security cooperation. A new vessel could be modeled after a destroyer of Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force, according to a Japanese government official. The Japanese and Indonesian governments had discussed the joint development for several years. But talks were stalled under the administration of former President Joko Widodo as his government focused more on relocating the national capital from Jakarta on Java to Nusantara in Borneo. Exports of destroyers are restricted under Japan's Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology but are allowed when they are jointly developed and manufactured with another nation. Related coverage: Japan defense chief visits South Korean warship in show of improved ties Japan, EU plan to set up security dialogue amid concerns over China A Fort Bliss soldier was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing an underage family member, Army prosecutors said. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes) A Fort Bliss soldier was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually abusing an underage family member, Army prosecutors said. Pvt. Alex Moon, 28, pleaded guilty during his court-martial held Dec. 19 before Military Judge Lt. Col. Mathew Rick. The judge also sentenced Moon to a dishonorable discharge. My client wanted to own up and take responsibility for what he did, said Justin Scheider, an attorney for Moon. Moon, who enlisted in October 2019, was an infantryman assigned to the 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss in west Texas, according to the Army. He was being held Monday at the Otero County Prison in New Mexico awaiting transfer to a military prison, according to the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel, which prosecuted the case. Once released, Moon must register as a sex offender. In an unsworn statement read in court, Moon apologized to his victim and described his behavior as a terrible mistake that will haunt him for the rest of his life. To move forward, he said he will take advantage of behavioral health programs in prison. My shame and regret constantly remind me of a person I never wanted to be nor will be again, he said, according to a written copy of the statement. The sexual abuse occurred against a girl younger than 16 years old between Feb. 1 and March 31, 2023, while Moon was stationed at Fort Bliss, according to his charge sheet. Moon touched the girl in a sexual manner and recorded a video of her without her consent and at a time that she had a reasonable expectation of privacy, according to the charge sheet. The abuse came to light after Moons spouse saw concerning photos and a video of the victim on the soldiers phone and reported it to military law enforcement, according to prosecutors. While speaking with a licensed social worker, the victim stated Moon had inappropriately touched her. Moon, who first arrived at Fort Bliss in August 2021, admitted to agents with the Army Criminal Investigation Division to taking the video as well as inappropriately touching the victim. The outcome of this court-martial is not only about holding the accused accountable for his actions but also about sending a powerful message that this type of misconduct will not be tolerated in the Army, Capt. Christopher Deisenroth, lead prosecutor on the case, said in a statement. We understand the punishment cannot undo the harm that has been done to the survivor, but we hope it may be a first step in the overall healing process. The Virginia-class attack submarine USS Texas departs Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Maine for sea trials on Dec. 6, 2024. (Branden Bourque/U.S. Navy) NAPLES, Italy The Navy will need a budget boost of at least $85 billion annually to realize an ambitious goal to grow its fleet by nearly 100 ships over the next three decades, according to a recent Congressional Budget Office analysis. The service would need an estimated annual budget of $340 billion to operate, purchase and maintain a fleet of 381 battle force ships as outlined in its most current shipbuilding proposal, the CBO said in a report released Monday. Thats roughly one-third more under current valuations than the Navys $255 billion budget in 2024, said the CBO, which analyzed the services 30-year shipbuilding plan submitted to Congress in March. That plan would grow the fleet to a level not seen since 2001, according to the report. The service now has about 296 numbered battle force ships, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, submarines and combat logistics vessels, among others. Over the past decade, funding for ship construction reached its highest level since the Reagan Administrations defense buildup in the 1980s, the CBO said. Since 2015, lawmakers have appropriated an average of $2.5 billion more per year for shipbuilding than the President has requested, partly because of concerns that the fleet is too small to perform all of its missions. The Navy needs a larger, more flexible fleet to address growing threats in the Indo-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East, officials and naval analysts have argued. An inadequately sized force is one reason why there are fewer Navy ships currently on patrol in the eastern Mediterranean Sea than in recent years, analysts recently told Stars and Stripes. 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. Under the Navys 2025 shipbuilding plan, the service would buy fewer next-generation attack submarines and large surface ships, favoring proven current-generation submarines, destroyers and other vessels, according to the CBO report. For example, in its 2024 plan the Navy envisioned purchasing as many as 35 next-generation attack submarines. Its 2025 proposal includes buying just 14 of those vessels. Instead, the service is opting to buy 36 Virginia-class fast-attack submarines in the coming decades. In 2024, the Navy said it would buy as few as 10 of those submarines. Over the next 30 years, the Navy would buy 364 ships, or an average of about 12 annually, for an estimated $903 billion. That cost likely is higher $1.075 trillion in current-year dollars when all expenses, such as outfitting new ships or purchasing oceanographic survey, sealift and other vessels not considered part of the battle force are included, the CBO said. The Navy and CBO cost calculations also vary in the way they determine the design and capabilities of some future ships, as well as labor and other costs, the report stated. The CBO cautioned that the estimates dont include costs for adding 134 surface and undersea drones in the Navys plan, which would bring its total platforms to 515 by 2054. The report cast doubt on the Navys ability to achieve its acquisition goals, which also include more missiles and unmanned systems on ships to make it more difficult for an opponent to destroy the fleets offensive capability. If the Navy is unable to reduce the maintenance delays that it has been experiencing for more than a decade, it would not be able to deploy as many ships as achieving its 381-ship goal would suggest, the CBO said. U.S. Marine MV-22 Osprey aircraft take off from Kismayo, Somalia, in July 2024. A U.S. airstrike on Dec. 31, 2024, killed 10 al-Shabab insurgents about 20 miles from the Kismayo base, U.S. Africa Command said Tuesday. (Kathleen LaCorte/U.S. Air National Guard) STUTTGART, Germany U.S. forces helped evacuate Somali troops from harms way during a recent operation against insurgents that resulted in the deaths of 10 militants from al-Shabab, U.S. Africa Command said Tuesday. The operation, carried out on Dec. 31, comes on the heels of a separate AFRICOM airstrike that killed a top al-Shabab commander a week earlier. The New Years Eve strike happened in a town called Beer Xaani, which is about 20 miles northwest of an operational base used by U.S. and Somali forces in Kismayo, according to an AFRICOM statement. On Monday, AFRICOM confirmed the Dec. 24 death of Mohamed Mire, described as a top official in the al-Qaida-aligned militant group. In the Dec. 31 airstrike, U.S. forces also rescued Somali counterparts who were attacked while fighting the terrorist group, the AFRICOM statement said without elaborating on the evacuation. AFRICOM did not specify what units and assets were involved, citing operational security. The U.S. has several hundred troops in Somalia, where they are tasked with training and assisting local forces. Al-Shabab has been waging a long-running armed insurgency against Somalias weak central government, whose military has been bolstered by U.S. troops. Over the years, AFRICOM has carried out periodic airstrikes against militants, but the pace of those strikes has slowed. In 2020, AFRICOM conducted a record 63 strikes in the country, compared with roughly a dozen in 2024. President Joe Biden in 2022 directed U.S. personnel back to Somalia on a continuous basis, reversing former President Donald Trumps order in late 2020 to withdraw some 700 troops from the country. Bidens decision came in the wake of criticism from AFRICOMs commander at the time, Gen. Stephen Townsend, who said the rotational approach that replaced the full-time presence in Somalia amounted to commuting to work and allowed insurgents to gain ground. Its unclear what Trumps plans are for the U.S. mission in Somalia or whether he intends to pull forces out once again after returning to the White House later this month. A wildfire burned for several hours Monday, Jan. 6, 2024, just south of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, before the Honolulu Fire Department doused the flames. (U.S. Army) A road south of Schofield Barracks in central Oahu was closed for several hours Monday afternoon as firefighters responded to a wildfire, U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii said in a Facebook post Monday. Kunia Road was closed in both directions between Lyman Gate at Schofield and Kunia Drive about a half-mile south of the base. The garrisons emergency alert advised drivers to use alternative routes and avoid the area. Firefighters from the Honolulu Fire Department contained the fire at about 4 p.m., and the road was reopened shortly after, Hawaii News Now reported Monday. Brush fires are commonplace on Oahu. In August, the Honolulu Fire Department was battling three separate wildfires in the grassy highlands of Oahu. Several thousand acres of grassland have burned in recent years on and near the Armys 132,000-acre Pohakuloa Training Area on the Big Island. A series of wildfires on Maui in early August 2023 turned deadly as high winds swept flames through the town of Lahaina, decimating it and killing 102 people. A Qatari airliner is seen upon landing at Damascus International Airport in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 7, 2025. Damascus International Airport resumed international operations on Tuesday with flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar as the interim administration in Syria continues to bolster ties with Gulf countries. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua) DAMASCUS, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Damascus International Airport resumed international operations on Tuesday with flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar as the interim administration in Syria continues to bolster ties with Gulf countries. The first flight departed on Tuesday morning for Sharjah, UAE, while a separate aircraft arrived from Doha, the first civilian flight from Qatar in 13 years, airport officials said. The resumption of air travel follows the collapse of the previous regime in December and signals potential warming ties between Syria's new government and its Gulf neighbors. Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani recently held talks in Doha with Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, breaking years of diplomatic freeze between the two nations. The Doha meetings focused on Syria's reconstruction and transition, with both sides expressing interest in economic and diplomatic cooperation, according to officials familiar with the talks. Al-Shibani also visited the UAE on Monday as part of a broader Gulf tour aimed at establishing relationships with the new Syrian leadership. A Syrian airliner awaits taking off from Damascus International Airport to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 7, 2025. Damascus International Airport resumed international operations on Tuesday with flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar as the interim administration in Syria continues to bolster ties with Gulf countries. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua) A passenger waits for his flight to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at Damascus International Airport, in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 7, 2025. Damascus International Airport resumed international operations on Tuesday with flights to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar as the interim administration in Syria continues to bolster ties with Gulf countries. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua) 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 Police were still searching Tuesday for an at-risk American teen last seen leaving a U.S. Army housing area near the Japanese capital the previous morning. Tupu Lamar Hawkins, 17, has been determined to be at significant risk by law enforcement, according to a missing person alert issued Monday evening by the Army Criminal Investigation Division. Hawkins was last seen leaving the Sagamihara Family Housing Area at 3:16 a.m. Monday, the Army said. He may have been walking toward the nearest 7-Eleven 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. Tupu Lamar Hawkins, 17, was last seen leaving the Sagamihara Family Housing Area at 3:16 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. (U.S. Army) The Criminal Investigation Division has no new information about the case, division spokesman Thomas Hamilton told Stars and Stripes by email Tuesday evening. Japanese police in Sagamihara received a report about the missing teen from the Army on Monday, a police spokesman said by phone Tuesday morning. Police are searching for Hawkins at places such as train stations, said the spokesman, who declined to provide further details about the ongoing investigation. Some Japanese government officials may speak to the press only on condition of anonymity. The missing person alert prompted dozens of comments on U.S. Army Garrison Japans Facebook page, including from someone who said they had put up flyers about the missing teen at a local train station. However, the garrison posted a Facebook update Tuesday morning from the Criminal Investigation Division discouraging people from hands-on involvement. We understand and appreciate that our local community members would like to take further action to aid in the investigation but respectfully ask that you allow law enforcement to conduct and lead this official investigation, the post said. Unofficial actions could unintentionally and negatively impact the investigation, according to the update. We are not advising any official community search parties at this time, it said. If we decide that an official search party should be conducted, we will lead that effort and communicate that need to the community through various channels, to include this [U.S. Army Garrison] Japan Facebook page. Anyone with information about Hawkins should contact Army CID Far East Field Office Japan at (571) 637-8561, according to the Army. Anonymous tips can be sent to the Criminal Investigation Division at www.cid.army.mil/tips. Community members should refrain from hanging posters off post without permission, the update added. A Chinese coast guard vessel sails in Japans contiguous zone around the Senkaku Islands, on Dec. 7, 2024. (Japan coast guard) Chinese coast guard ships sailed near the Senkaku chain a record 355 times last year, as Beijing made good on its promise to increase its presence around the islands. China topped the record it set the year before, when its vessels were spotted 352 times in the contiguous zone around the Senkakus, a territory administered by Japan, a spokesman with Japans coast guard said by phone Tuesday. The contiguous zone is a 24-mile-wide band beyond the 12-mile territorial limit. Nations may exercise limited control in their contiguous zones, according to the United Nations. The Senkakus, also claimed by China and Taiwan, include five uninhabited islets and three reefs 105 miles east of Taiwan and 254 miles west of Okinawa. The vessels sailed within the Senkakus 12-mile territorial limit 39 times in 2024. The record is 52 times in 2013, the spokesman said. Of the 2024 instances, 18 involved Chinese coast guard ships chasing Japanese fishing vessels, according to the spokesman. Chinese vessels last intruded into territorial waters around the Senkakus on Dec. 6, according to a Japan coast guard news release that day. Four vessels that looked to be armed with deck-mounted machine guns were spotted and warned away with radio and electronic message boards. The Japanese government has lodged numerous protests with Beijing over the incidents, including in September when four Chinese vessels armed with what appeared to be deck-mounted machine guns crossed the 12-mile limit. China set another record in 2023 and 2024 for consecutive days sailing within the contiguous zone near the Senkakus. Vessels were spotted for 215 straight days from Dec. 22, 2023, to July 23, the spokesman said. The situation in the waters around the Senkakus is still severe and we cannot let our guard down, Seishiro Sakamoto, commander of Japans 11th Regional Coast Guard, said in a statement Dec. 29, the day Chinese vessels broke the record for sightings around the Senkakus. We will respond resolutely while working closely with related authorities and take every measure to protect our territorial waters, he said. China has stepped up its presence around the Senkakus following a visit by President Xi Jinping in November 2023 to his countrys coast guard command in which he stated the necessity to constantly strengthen Beijings claim on the islands, Kyodo News reported at the time. U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel lambasted Chinas plan to keep ships in and around Japans Senkaku Islands for 365 consecutive days in a January 2023 post on X. The area around the Senkakus reportedly contains oil reserves and other resources, which has led to Chinese challenges to Japans claim over the islands since the 1970s, according to Japans Foreign Affairs Ministry. The Pentagon identified China as an aggressive presence in the East and South China seas and a global pacing challenge in its 2022 National Defense Strategy. The Defense Department has reached a proposed settlement with tens of thousands of LGBTQ+ veterans dismissed from military service over their sexual orientation. The settlement filed Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in federal district court in San Francisco makes it easier and faster for veterans to upgrade their discharge status to honorable and ease access to health care, loans and tuition assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to court documents. (Monica Roybal/U.S. Air Force) WASHINGTON The Defense Department has reached a class-action settlement with more than 35,000 LGBTQ+ veterans who claimed they were wrongfully discharged from military duty and denied benefits because of their sexual orientation. The proposed settlement, which requires approval from a judge, will enable veterans who received other-than-honorable discharges to upgrade their status and request to have their benefits restored, according to court documents. A court decision is expected within 90 days, according to the plaintiffs attorneys. The Defense Department indicated in court papers filed in U.S. District Court in the North District of California that it will not oppose approval of the settlement. The settlement filed Monday in federal district court in San Francisco makes it easier and faster for veterans to have discharge papers changed to remove references to sexual orientation and ease access to health care, loans and tuition assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to court documents. The military officially stopped banning people who are gay or lesbian from military service with the repeal of the Dont Ask, Dont Tell policy in 2011. The policy had prohibited service members from openly discussing or disclosing their sexual orientation without risk of discrimination and discharge, according to court papers. About 30,000 of the 35,000 veterans discharged because of their sexual orientation received other-than-honorable discharges. The pain and injustice of being discharged under discriminatory policies like Dont Ask, Dont Tell have lingered for years, said Jules Sohn, a 46-year-old former Marine Corps captain from California who is among five plaintiffs named in the original claim filed in 2023. Sohn, who served in Iraq, was involuntarily discharged from military service in 2008, after she began speaking out against Dont Ask, Dont Tell policies, according to court documents. Veterans who received other-than-honorable discharges were precluded from receiving benefits from the VA unless they could prove mitigating circumstances before a discharge review board. Terms of the proposed settlement enable LGBTQ+ veterans to make an administrative request to have their discharges upgraded to honorable starting in mid-2025 without petitioning the Defense Department, according to court documents. The class-action lawsuit was filed on behalf of veterans discharged from the armed forces because they were LGBTQ+ lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender non-conforming, nonbinary and intersex. Veterans will be able to forgo a lengthy appeal before a military discharge review board. The proposed process for upgrading a discharge to honorable under the settlement will allow veterans to opt in for a group review. The settlement is fair, reasonable, adequate and an excellent outcome for LGBTQ+ veterans who have endured ongoing injury resulting from violations of their constitutional rights, said Lori Rifkin, an attorney with Impact Fund, a legal foundation representing the plaintiffs. Veterans in the lawsuit are individuals involuntarily discharged from military service because of sexual orientation, as listed on the form called DD-214. Each member of the proposed settlement class has been waiting more than a decade for the U.S. military to systematically correct the DD-214s that still carry markers of anti-LGBTQ+ military policies, Rifkin said in court documents. Because an individuals discharge is part of a military record, veterans continued to face invasion of privacy, denial of access to benefits and barriers to hiring, according to the lawsuit. My family has always valued service and sacrifice, and I was proud to follow in the footsteps of generations before me by enlisting in the U.S. Navy, said veteran Lilly Steffanides, 54, of San Francisco, another plaintiff in the lawsuit. When I joined in 1988, I was determined to serve my country with honor. However, the discriminatory policies of the time led to my unjust discharge, stripping me of my dignity and access to the benefits I earned. Steffanides faced harassment while stationed in Newport News and Norfolk, Va., prior to her dismissal from the military and receiving an other-than-honorable discharge, according to court documents. The reason stated was homosexual on discharge papers. Other veterans named in the lawsuit are Navy veteran Sherrill Farrell of Texas and Army veterans James Gonzales and Steven Egland, both from Michigan. Defendants cited in the lawsuit are Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro and Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall. The Defense Department referred questions about the proposed settlement to the Justice Department. The Defense Department will acknowledge error[s] or injustice in the records of the veterans and agree to make changes to reentry codes, service characterizations and the narrative describing the basis for the discharge, according to the proposed settlement. The Defense Department, under the settlement terms, would establish a special process for changing an individuals discharge status to honorable in cases where sexual orientation, homosexual conduct, homosexual admission, homosexual marriage, attempt to engage in homosexual conduct or homosexual marriage were the basis for dismissal, according to court papers. The proposed settlement will give veterans three years to submit requests for changes to discharge papers. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- On a hot summer day, a chilled Beibingyang orange soda, with its tangy juice and fizzy bubbles, is a refreshing treat and a nostalgic reminder of simpler times for many in Beijing. The brand Beibingyang, also known as Arctic Ocean, has been a beloved fixture in the city since 1936. For many, just hearing the name evokes vivid memories of carefree summer days in the 1980s. At its peak, the soft drink, made with real mandarin juice, was so popular that production lines operated around the clock, yet still struggled to meet demand. It even made an appearance at the inaugural China Central Television (CCTV) Spring Festival Gala, cementing its status as a household name. However, after forming a joint venture with a foreign enterprise in the 1990s, Beibingyang's sales plummeted to less than 1 percent of its peak due to fierce market competition, and the brand gradually faded from the public view. Things began to take a positive turn in 2007, when Beijing Yiqing Holding Co., Ltd. regained ownership of the Beibingyang brand through negotiations. However, as part of the agreement, the company couldn't produce carbonated beverages under the Beibingyang name for the next four years. In the winter of 2011, Beibingyang made a surprise comeback. Without any advertising, the soft drink quickly gained popularity through word of mouth. Within just two months, it became profitable, and within two years, its sales exceeded 100 million yuan (about 13.91 million U.S. dollars). By 2023, Beibingyang had achieved an average annual revenue growth of over 40 percent, with profits rising by 20 percent annually. Today, Beibingyang is thriving as a symbol of homegrown success, with its remarkable return rooted in an unwavering commitment to quality. When Beijing Yiqing reclaimed the brand, the challenge was not only to revive production but also to stay true to the original formula while adapting it to contemporary tastes. The team meticulously selected premium ingredients and perfected the recipe. Unlike typical sodas that rely on artificial flavorings, Beibingyang uses real mandarin juice extracted from the premium "Dahongpao" tangerine variety. This commitment to natural ingredients results in a unique taste and texture, with visible pulp and natural oils enhancing its iconic flavor, according to Cui Cuicui, an employee of Beijing Yiqing. Beibingyang's resurgence offers valuable lessons for other legacy brands, demonstrating that success lies in striking a delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation. For instance, the brand revamped its iconic logo and packaging to appeal to young consumers while preserving classic elements like the white bear and blue sky. Glass bottles, once considered impractical, were reintroduced to evoke nostalgia and align with eco-friendly values. These efforts have helped Beibingyang stand out in a competitive market, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern sensibilities. In recent years, a growing sense of national pride among Chinese consumers has helped traditional brands tap into new markets. Local brands like Beibingyang have also effectively converted online traffic into tangible offline sales. According to the Ministry of Commerce, there are currently 1,455 "China Time-Honored Brands." In the first half of 2024, local commerce departments organized 170 events for these brands, generating 3.69 billion yuan in direct sales and driving a total of 11.82 billion yuan in online and offline sales across e-commerce platforms. After a strong comeback, Beibingyang continues to move forward. Recognizing that modern consumers value variety, the brand has expanded its product line to include options like low-sugar sodas, NFC juices, and even tea and coffee beverages, all featuring its iconic white bear logo. Having expanded across China, Beibingyang is now set to go global and share its authentic flavors with the world through its commitment to quality and innovation. He had quads robbed. There were chainsaws and everything robbed on him Law professor Diarmuid Phelan who was cleared of the murder of a trespasser he fatally shot on his farm had been repeatedly targeted by intruders, trespassers and thieves since purchasing the property in 2019. Locals on Kiltalown Lane, Tallaght, off which the 180 acre Hazelgrove Farm is located, said there were tensions over recurrent farm intrusions in the months leading up to the shooting of Keith Bono Conlon. On Friday, Mr Phelan (56), a senior counsel and professor of law at Trinity College was found not guilty of the murder of trespasser Conlon on the property in February of 2022. Driving up the laneway, the first thing that strikes visitors is the amount of illegally dumped waste littering both sides of the road. Speaking yesterday, a local landowner said he believed the jury had got the verdict right. Keith Conlon The landowner told us: Just the week before the shooting happened, three lads came up here and walked across the back of one of the houses and on into a farm. When the farmer who owned that land saw them, he went out and challenged them and he had his gun on him as well. And one of them said to him: Youre a big man with your gun, Ill take that off you and show you what its used for. The local said it was common knowledge in the area that Mr Phelan had been plagued by intruders ever since he purchased the farm. His shed was after being broken into. He had quads robbed on him. There was chainsaws and everything robbed. It shouldnt be like that. But every farmer up here will tell you the same story. And its so brazen. Its happening in broad daylight. People here are used to it but it would make you wary. During the 10-week murder trial, details of Mr Phelans repeated report of such incidents were divulged in court. The jury heard the law professor had reported constant, aggressive trespassers on his land who would not disperse and had told him: We will do whatever the f**k we like. Mr Phelan told gardai he had been attacked several times and that his family were in fear. On the day of the fatal shooting, Mr Phelan, who had no criminal record of any kind, was clearing bushes on the farm when Conlon (35) and his associates, Kallum Coleman and Robin Duggan, trespassed the property. Conlon intended to hunt badgers and had a Jack Russell with him, while Coleman had a lurcher. Hearing a dog barking on land where he had ewes lambing, Mr Phelan shot the lurcher believing it was out loose. It was at this stage the three trespassers emerged from the woods shouting angrily forcing Mr Phelan to retreat. At 1.05pm, Mr Phelan rang gardai asking them to come urgently as there were intruders on the farm. Four minutes later, a student working on the farm, rang 999 a second time reporting that one of the intruders had been shot. By the time gardai arrived at the scene, Mr Phelan was attempting to treat Conlon for his injuries and had applied a powder to stem blood loss to the back of his head. Mr Phelan, during a subsequent interview with gardai, told officers he had fired shots in an arc left to right above the intruders heads in warning. He said he had not intended to wound Conlon and was stunned when he fell. At the trials conclusion, the jury returned a not guilty verdict. They 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. 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 2, 2021, at Terminal 2 in Dublin Airport. 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. Kirstie McGrath 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 3, 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. 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. Yesterday, 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. Their defence solicitor, Michael French, told Judge Treasa Kelly that his clients were pleading not guilty and seeking a hearing date. Niamh Mulreany 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. 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. TEHRAN, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Iran's armed forces began a large-scale joint air defense exercise near the Natanz uranium enrichment facility in central Isfahan province on Tuesday, state television reported. The "Eqtedar" (Power) 1403 exercise was launched on the orders of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defense Base Commander Qader Rahimzadeh, IRIB TV said. The first phase involves Aerospace Force units of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) conducting "all-out point defense of the nuclear site against numerous aerial threats under tough electronic warfare conditions," according to IRIB. IRGC spokesman Ali-Mohammad Naeini said on Monday that the annual drills aim to maintain and improve military preparedness, counter potential military threats and acts of sabotage, and boost national morale. The exercise comes after American news website Axios reported last week that U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan presented U.S. President Joe Biden with options for a potential U.S. attack on Iranian nuclear facilities "should the Iranians move towards a nuclear weapon before Jan. 20, 2025." Alan Hall, a former finance director for a prominent PR firm, faced bail objections when he appeared at Dublin District Court FAMILIES dining in a popular Dublin bar were put in absolute fear when a chartered accountant began pacing around with an imitation handgun tucked into the waistband, a court heard. Alan Hall, 44, of Bridgewater Quay, Conyngham Road, Dublin 8, was charged with a Firearms Act offence for unlawful possession of an imitation gun at the Grattan Bar in Inchicore on Saturday. Mr Hall, a former finance director for a prominent PR firm, faced bail objections when he appeared before Judge Treasa Kelly at Dublin District Court on Monday. Garda Leanne Butler cited the seriousness of the case and possible witness interference as grounds to object to his bail. She alleged that the accused was seen with what appeared to be a firearm in the waistband as he was pacing up and down in the bar before he took it out and put it into his coat pocket. Following arrest, he told gardai it was a toy gun. Questioned by defence solicitor Colleen Gildernew, the garda agreed he also had a box of toy soldiers and claimed to have bought them in an unnamed shop in the city centre. Enquiries about the shop were ongoing. The garda accepted that the accused had a meal and went to pay when the imitation gun was spotted. She alleged that it happened during peak hours in the bar where several witnesses, including families, could see the weapon and were in absolute fear for their safety at the time. She accepted that it was not the case that he had been waving or pointing the fake gun, and she added that he did not threaten anyone. The garda said Mr Hall took photographs of the bar after being asked to leave. Alan Hall Ahead of the court hearing, he was questioned at Kevin Street garda station, where a doctor found he was fit to be interviewed. The defence solicitor said her client had no prior convictions, had an avid interest in World War Two memorabilia, and had cooperated in the bar. She submitted that he had given an account to gardai and that any concerns about her client would not be helped by a remand in custody. At the bail hearing, a staff member gave evidence that the accused had paid his bill with a tip, but people in the bar were frightened. Judge Kelly described it as very scary but said she held that he could be granted conditional bail once he lodged 500 and had a 1,000 independent surety approved. He must stay away from the bar and remain contactable by phone. Mr Hall, who has yet to enter a plea, was remanded in custody with consent to bail on those terms and will appear again on Wednesday. Legal aid was granted after the judge noted he was unemployed and getting social welfare. Albert Burns (91), from Carnmoney Road in Newtownabbey, has been accused of and has denied seven counts of indecent assault against a child A trial concerning a former police officer accused of sexually abusing a teenage boy in the 1980s commenced in Belfast today. Albert Burns (91), from Carnmoney Road in Newtownabbey, has been accused of and has denied seven counts of indecent assault against a child. The pensioner has been excused from attending the trial to determine the facts due to ill health. Prior to a Crown barrister opening the prosecutions case, Judge Gordon Kerr KC addressed the jury and said: Mr Burns is an elderly gentleman who has medically been assessed and has dementia to such a degree that he is not capable of attending or understanding the trial process. You are not asked to decide whether someone is guilty or not guilty of criminal offences. What you are asked to do, due to the medical condition of the defendant, is to listen to the evidence... and then decide whether the person concerned did the acts alleged by the prosecution, or did not do the acts alleged by the prosecution. A Crown barrister then told the jury at Belfast Crown Court that Burns, a former CID officer in the RUC, has been charged with seven counts of indecently assaulting the complainant on dates between January 3, 1987, and January 4, 1989. At the time of the alleged offences, the complainant was aged between 13 and 15. The alleged abuse, the court heard, occurred in the bedroom and bathroom of the complainants Co Antrim home over a two-year period. He recalled that on one occasion he almost scalded himself on a radiator beside his bed trying to evade Burns, whilst on another occasion he was abused whilst taking a shower. The Crown barrister said the complainant did not disclose what was happening to him at the time for two reasons: firstly, Burns told the then teenager that no one would believe him, and secondly, the complainant was afraid of Burns. The barrister added that the complainant subsequently told both his wife and a friend and reported the matter to the PSNI in 2019. As a result of the complainants allegations, Burns was interviewed by the PSNI in July 2020. Telling the jury that Burns was not unfit then, the prosecutor said the accused denied the claims made by the complainant, which he branded as a bundle of lies and made up. The trial continues. The accused was charged in February last year following a Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) investigation. AN alleged money launderer has been sent for trial charged with having the 355,000 proceeds of a romance fraud in accounts. Ayo Egbon (37) had a book of evidence served on him when he appeared in Dublin District Court. Judge Deirdre Gearty sent him for trial to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Mr Egbon, a father-of-three of Broomhill House, Swords Road, Dublin is charged with acquiring, possessing, using, or converting 255,472, allegedly in a Permanent TSB account in his name, knowing or reckless to it being proceeds of crime, between February 2017 and February 2020. He is also charged with the same alleged offence in relation to 100,000 in cash balances transferred through an account in another name held at Fire Financial Services Ltd, CHQ, Custom House Quay, Dublin 1 between July 2 and 14, 2021. The case had been before the court several times last year and at Mr Egbon's latest appearance, a state solicitor told Judge Gearty the book of evidence was ready. The DPP was consenting to the accused being sent for trial to the next sittings of the circuit court, the judge was told. Judge Gearty gave Mr Egbon the formal notice that he had 14 days to provide any alibi details to the prosecution. She also ordered the prosecution to furnish the defence with the accused's garda interview video, She granted free legal aid to include junior and senior counsel at trial. Mr Egbon was remanded on bail to appear in court again on a date next month.. The accused was charged in February last year following a Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) investigation. At his last court appearance, Garda Stephen Kelly said Mr Egbon made no reply after caution. The charges are under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. Under bail conditions previously imposed, he was to sign on weekly at a garda station, surrender his passport, reside at the address given, and not to go on any internet dating or matchmaking sites. The accused was told not to apply for alternative travel documents. His lawyer said at an earlier hearing Mr Egbon, a learner truck driver, had lost his employment in relation to these matters, Previously, the court also heard the alleged injured party in relation to the first charge was in Finland. The 25-year-old is also accused of throttling the woman and slapping her about the face until she chipped a tooth A man allegedly barged into his ex-girlfriends Belfast home to sexually assault her after declaring Ill have you whenever I want, a court heard today. The 25-year-old is also accused of throttling the woman and slapping her about the face until she chipped a tooth. Details emerged as the defendant, who cannot be identified, was granted bail. He denies charges of non-fatal strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and sexual assault over the incident in the early hours of September 1 last year. Belfast Magistrates Court heard he arrived and began banging on her door after she returned from a night out. She claimed that he barged in past her, shouting that she had another man in the house and ignoring requests to leave. The defendant then tried to pull down her pyjama bottoms and stated I cant let anyone else have you, according to her account. An investigating detective told the court: He said Youre mine, no-one else will have you, Ill have you whenever I want. The injured party was screaming for him to stop, saying I dont want to have sex with you, I want you to leave. At one point he allegedly pulled her top down and carried out a sexual assault until she bled. It was claimed that he also pushed her over a living room sofa and made a further attempt to remove her pyjamas. He grabbed her by the throat with one hand while slapping her to the face multiple times with the other hand, the detective said. The injured party stated that she saw white and clenched her jaw so hard that she chipped a front tooth. Police were alerted and arrested the man later that morning. During interviews he claimed that he went to her home to discuss getting back money for a holiday they booked while still in a relationship. He told police that he left again following an argument where she accused him of cheating. The detective added: He laughed when the sexual assault allegations were put to him and commented that she already had the chipped tooth and was in touch with her dentist about it. Defence counsel Luke Curran confirmed his client strenuously denies the charges. He provided a full account and put forward his case at interview, the barrister insisted. Mr Curran argued that the accused has now spent four months in custody. Granting bail due to the period spent behind bars, District Judge Steven Keown ordered the accused to live under curfew at an approved address in Co Antrim. Mr Keown further directed: He is to have no contact with the complainant and must stay out of east Belfast. The defendant was told she would serve half her time in custody and the rest on licence 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. 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 public's 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. "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 defendant's 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. "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, we're catching more of the small minority who break the rules by bolstering our Counter Corruption Unit and strengthening our vetting processes. "As today's sentencing demonstrates, where officers do fall below our high standards we won't hesitate to take robust action." Open verdict was given in death of Liam Farrell, but family suspect the pensioner was assaulted before his death Leitrim man Liam Farrell, who was found dead at this home in Rooskey in 2020 A former neighbour of late Leitrim farmer Liam Farrell (87) has told how she saw him talking to a mystery man in the pub just hours before he died. Anne Vaughan was one of the last people to speak to Mr Farrell when she met him in their local pub, Reynolds, in the village of Rooskey on the Roscommon border on January 11, 2020. Mr Farrells body was found the following afternoon lying at the back of the family home where he lived alone. An inquest held in September returned an open verdict, which meant that the jury could not be satisfied as to the actual circumstances surrounding the death. Someone knows something about what happened to Liam Farrell that night In an interview, Ms Vaughan recalled how she and her daughter saw the grandfather in the company of a man she had never seen before and who left her with a bad feeling. As the fifth anniversary of the mysterious death approaches, she has expressed the belief that someone in the local community has information that could help. Someone knows something about what happened to Liam Farrell that night. I spoke to him earlier that night and he was in great form, she said. I have known him for over 30 years and if there was anything wrong with him I would have taken notice of it. That is why I would appeal to anyone who knows anything to come out and tell the truth about what they know. The father of five was found facing up and his head was wedged in the corner of the wall at the rear of the house. Liam Farrell's sons Willie, Brendan and Peter at his grave in Bornacoola cemetery near Rooskey, Co Leitrim. Photo: Frank McGrath He was covered in blood and there were extensive bruises, abrasions and lacerations to his face and body. Blood was spattered around the walls and door of the house. There was also blood found on a mop and in a mop bucket. One of the most baffling aspects of the case is how and why so many of the deceaseds garments had been removed. Mr Farrells shoes, socks, blazer and overcoat had been removed. The coats were tucked under the body. The blood-soaked knotted tie he had been wearing was also found lying on the ground. The keys of the house were found at the front gate to the property. It appeared that he had only made it to the back door which was found locked. Leitrim man Liam Farrell, who was found dead at this home in Rooskey in 2020 'Extensive' evidence of blood discovered at home of elderly Leitrim farmer Liam Farrell A post-mortem examination showed that the widower died as a result of a heart attack caused by severe coronary heart disease. However, it emerged that the consultant pathologist who performed the original autopsy didnt know that the body had been found in suspicious circumstances. He believed he was dealing with a case of death by natural causes. Had he known that the gardai were treating the case as suspicious he would have referred the autopsy to a forensic pathologist instead. The family of the popular Leitrim man say they are in no doubt that his death was precipitated by an assault. Separately, a local man also allegedly approached the family and said that their father had not died where he was found, and that his body was dragged to the back of the house. When approached, the individual concerned refused to elaborate on his remarks. The familys suspicions were supported by the former state pathologist for Northern Ireland, who told the inquest that in his opinion the deceased had been assaulted by a third party. Mr Farrells daughter, Mary who found her father and son, Brendan, said that their fathers injuries could not have been consistent with a fall that was the result of a heart attack. All those marks that were found didnt come on him from a heart attack On December 14, the Farrell family had a meeting with a senior garda who is conducting a peer review of the original garda investigation into their fathers death. At that meeting it was revealed that tests on blood samples discovered in a shed close to where Mr Farrells body was found were inconclusive and did not advance an investigation any further. The Farrell familys lawyer has requested a detailed report on the analysis of the blood finds. But in the village of Rooskey there is growing concern among Liam Farrells former neighbours that his death was caused by violence. It is very hard to know what happened, Ms Vaughan said. But all those marks that were found didnt come on him from a heart attack. Ms Vaughan last saw Liam Farrell in Reynolds bar. She was there in the company of her daughter and another local man when Mr Farrell walked in. It was around 9.30pm. She described him as being in great form and that he commiserated with her over the recent death of her sister. I asked him how he was doing and he replied, Begod, I have never been as good. You would know by looking at him that there wasnt a loss on him, she recalled. A man came in who she had never seen before and sat beside Mr Farrell at the bar. She said it looked like they knew each other and were having a great conversation. She recalled how the man bought a single bottle of Coke, which he sat over for the entire time he was in the bar. I didnt like the look of him, she said. I said to my daughter that he looks like a horsey man, he had a very distinctive black cowboy hat with a wide rim. I cant explain other than that, this man left me feeling uncomfortable I had never seen him before, but there was something that hit me and my daughter about him. When Mr Farrell left at around 10.15pm, the mystery man moved to a table close to where the music was being played. He then left shortly after, Ms Vaughan said. When the man left I felt the urge to go out and looked into the Weir Lodge next door and Liam was there. There was no sign of the stranger, she said. Ms Vaughan and her daughter later passed on what they had seen to one of Mr Farrells sons who brought it to the attention of the gardai. I thought that they (gardai) had followed up and found out about who the man was, but I have never heard, she added. During the inquest in September Ms Vaughan testified to seeing the unidentified man, but no evidence was offered by the gardai. According to the gardai, the death of Mr Farrell was fully investigated and a file sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions office, which recommended no prosecution be made against any individuals. At the meeting with a senior garda officer before Christmas, the family were told that when the peer review is completed, the findings will be sent to Garda Commissioner Drew Harris seeking recommendations on what future action, if any, is to be taken in the investigation. The suspects, who are all male teens, some as young as 16, uploaded videos and images of their actions to social media Gardai have seized a stolen Audi used by the so-called Lucky Dip gang to evade officers and carry out burglaries at the weekend. The vehicle was taken in Co Meath in the early hours of Friday morning. It travelled in convoy with a stolen Ford Fiesta, driven by other gang members at high speed, but gardai were called off the pursuit once they reached the N4 in Dublin. It was then used by the gang in a spate of burglaries across Dublin and Kildare on Saturday and Sunday, and was used to try to ram a garda patrol car off the road. The suspects, who are all male teenagers with some as young as 16, uploaded videos and images of their actions to social media sites, helping gardai to identify them. It is understood that, at times, four different gang members were in the Audi, which was being driven at dangerously high speeds. This gang is completely out of control and has been for some time. The Garda Representative Association has already said the new policy on pursuits is unworkable and there is no doubt that the policy is playing into the hands of the Lucky Dip gang and others like them, a source said. If gardai had been able to pursue and stop that car on Friday morning, a number of other crimes would not have happened. The stolen Audi was seen on CCTV in Newcastle, Co Dublin, at 6.30am on Saturday, where its occupants were involved in the burglary of a hair salon. Gardai later recovered a cash register on the N7. The gang then used the same car to commit commercial burglaries in Ardclough, Co Kildare, and the Naul area of north Co Dublin later on Saturday. On Sunday morning, the Audi was used at a break-in at another business premises in Newcastle at about 4am. Just 70 minutes later, the driver of the car attempted to ram a garda patrol car off the road in the Kingswood area of south Dublin before speeding off. The Audi vehicle was next spotted by gardai on Sunday afternoon parked in the Greenhills area of Dublin, close to where one of the Lucky Dip gang members lives. It has since been seized and is now the subject of a forensic examination. No arrests have been made. The gangs 18-year-old ringleader, from Ballyfermot, is suspected of being one of the four teenagers involved in the crime spree. Other members of the The Lucky Dip gang are also suspects for stealing a car in Greystones, Co Wicklow, at 4.40am on Friday, which was used in a break-in at a cafe in Kill, Co Kildare, at 6.15am the same day. The gang have around a dozen associates in the south inner city as well as the Blanchardstown, Tallaght and Lucan areas of the capital. They earned the name Lucky Dip after gardai learned that the gang randomly pick targets in towns across Leinster on an almost nightly basis, using Google Maps. The gang is suspected of stealing dozens of cars in the last year, which they mainly use for joyriding and committing burglaries. They are targeting hair salons and barber shops at the moment this not high-end stuff. They are doing it for their own enjoyment but their driving behaviour is extremely dangerous and has already led to one fatality, a source said. Responding to criticism of the new pursuit policy, a garda spokesman said that the aim was to preserve the safety of the public and garda personnel when a spontaneous pursuit was initiated, and that the first priority should be to prevent a pursuit from taking place. The head of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), Detective Chief Superintendent Aidan Minnock, said human trafficking is a huge concern Gardai are dealing with a massive increase in human-trafficking and people-smuggling cases as well as people arriving in Ireland with no valid travel documentation. In an interview with the Irish Independent, the head of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), Detective Chief Superintendent Aidan Minnock, said human trafficking is a huge concern. The GNIB has identified a number of facilitators in Ireland linked to international organised crime gangs who facilitate the arrival of extremely vulnerable people who are trafficked into the country In 2023, the GNIB conducted investigations in relation to 18 individual human-trafficking facilitators and 29 criminal charges have been brought in relation to people-smuggling offences resulting from these organised crime investigations. Last year, there was a 40pc increase in detections of individuals in relation to these serious offences, according to the officer, with 26 people prosecuted and 41 charges initiated before the courts. In terms of people-smuggling networks, they have a number of services provided to them by various criminal groups and networks and that ranges from people involved in cyber that is, the advertising of services to smuggle people into the country using social media and other platforms, Chief Supt Minnock said. 163 such cases were brought before the courts last year Other criminal groupings are involved in the production of false and forged documents such as passports and visas and then other criminal networks are trying to exploit legitimate companies involved in the transportation or accommodation of people. Essentially they are involved in corruption, they will resort to violence to exploit people and they are trying to exploit the most vulnerable people in society. When these trafficked people get to Ireland they can be further exploited here and Chief Supt Minnock revealed that gardai investigated 53 cases of human trafficking in 2023 and that figure increased by 25pc last year. Of the 163 people, 131 were successfully prosecuted before the courts and seven are still before the courts The GNIB says that trafficked people are victims of either sexual exploitation, forced labour, forced criminality or a combination of these crimes. Last year, the Bureau identified a Georgian organised crime group based in Ireland involved in the production of false documents across the world which has now been dismantled after a joint operation with international police force Europol. A number of senior gang members have since been jailed in Ireland. Chief Supt Minnock said that the GNIB relies on information from the public about people being smuggled into the country and he appealed for anyone who sees anything suspicious to contact gardai. Separately, he revealed that there were 163 prosecutions instigated by the GNIB last year over people entering the State with no travel documents or being in possession of false documents. Of the 163 people, 131 were successfully prosecuted before the courts and seven are still before the courts, he said. Adnan, who was originally from Bosnia but had been living in Ireland for over 30 years, died as a result of his injuries following the horror attack A man in his 40s has been arrested in connection with the murder of a man in west Dublin over two years ago. Adnan Asic, 60 years, died following an assault in the early hours of October 22, 2022, as he was walking towards Blanchardstown Road North from the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre. A garda spokesperson confirmed the arrest after launching a murder investigation. The arrested man is currently detained pursuant to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, at a garda station in north Dublin area, the spokesperson said. Gardai are renewing their appeal to any person who was in the vicinity of Blanchardstown Road North, the Old Navan Road and Blanchardstown Shopping Centre and surrounding areas between 12am and 3am on Saturday 22nd October 2022, and observed any activity which drew their attention, to come forward. In particular, anyone who saw two men together at the junction of Blanchardstown Road North and the Old Navan Road, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 in the early hours of 22nd October 2022. Any road users (particularly taxi drivers) or pedestrians who were travelling in these areas at these times who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) are asked to make this footage available to gardai." Anyone with any information is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01 666 7000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Adnan, who was originally from Bosnia but had been living in Ireland for over 30 years, died as a result of his injuries following the horror attack. Initially gardai couldn't explain his injuries but a post mortem revealed he died as a result of a violent assault. Speaking at the scene in the days after his death, Superintendent Peter Burke of Blanchardstown Garda Station said: Adnan was in Ireland for almost 30 years. He was a completely innocent man (of) this assault. He has family back in Bosnia and he has some family here in Ireland as well. Adnan had been found lying on the ground at the busy junction and gardai said he had not been hit by a car but had been violently assaulted. Adnan was fatally assaulted on this junction between 2am and 3am on Saturday morning, in the early hours, Superintendent Burke added. Were appealing today for any witnesses or any person passing (in a car) that. would have dashcam footage to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station or indeed any garda station with this information. Gardai initially said in a statement at the time that they they are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the death of the 60-year-old man in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 at the weekend. An incident room has been established at Blanchardstown Garda Station and the investigation is being carried out under the direction of a senior investigating officer, gardai added. A family liaison officer has been appointed and continues to keep the family informed of the investigation. A 29-year-old remains in custody while another man was taken to hospital Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a shooting in Co Antrim on Monday night. The 29-year-old remains in custody while another man was taken to hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life threatening. The incident took place in the Beverley Road area of Newtownabbey, where cordons were in place as police attended the scene on Monday night. Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The ordeal occurred just before 10pm. Photographs from the scene showed a large police presence, including armed officers and sniffer dogs. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was also at the scene. In a statement, a spokesperson for the NIAS confirmed one person was taken to hospital. Police at the scene of a suspected shooting incident in the Carnmoney area of Newtownabbey on January 6th 2025 (Photo by Kevin Scott) "The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service received a 999 call at 21:40 on Monday 6 January following reports of an incident in the Fairview Avenue area of Newtownabbey, they said. NIAS despatched two Emergency Crews and two Ambulance Officers to the incident. Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, one patient was taken by ambulance to RVH in Belfast. MANILA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The performance of manufacturing production in the Philippines declined in November 2024, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Tuesday. Based on the preliminary results of the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries, the PSA said the year-on-year value of production index (VaPI) and the volume of production index (VoPI) decreased by 3.9 percent and 4.2 percent in November last year, respectively. The PSA said the VaPI declined at an annual rate of 3.9 percent in November 2024 from a yearly increase of 0.3 percent in October 2024, bringing the average VaPI growth rate from January to November 2024 to 0.3 percent. In November 2023, the VaPI yearly growth rose by 2.1 percent. The PSA attributed the downtrend in the annual rate of VaPI for manufacturing to the slower yearly growth rate of the manufacture of food products industry division at 1.5 percent during the month from an annual increase of 7.1 percent in October 2024. The manufacture of food products contributed 24.6 percent to the downtrend of VaPI for the manufacturing section in November 2024, it said. Meanwhile, the VoPI for the manufacturing section registered a slower year-on-year decline of 4.2 percent from an annual increment of 0.7 percent in October 2024, bringing the average VoPI growth rate for manufacturing from January to November 2024 to 1.1 percent. In November 2023, the VoPI for manufacturing recorded an annual increase of 2.1 percent. The PSA said the November 2024 downtrend in the year-on-year growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing was primarily driven by the same top three industry divisions that contributed to the decline of VaPI for manufacturing during the period. They were the manufacture of food products; the manufacture of transport equipment; and the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products. They travelled on a ferry from Fishguard in Wales to Rosslare under false names Four men who were wanted for their part in the brutal murder of a teenager in Leeds last year were arrested after they fled to Ireland but later released, a court has heard. Aquade Jeffers, Caleb Awe, Enham Nishat and Ranei Wilks all went on the run over the drug-turf murder of 18-year-old Jamie Meah in 2023. Wilks gave himself up to the authorities after a year and is standing trial this week at Leeds Crown Court. However the other three remain at large and are believed to be all living in hiding abroad. The four suspects in the murder had been identified by detectives but had already fled the country. They travelled on a ferry from Fishguard in Wales to Rosslare under false names. They were later arrested for a petty theft on May 4, 2023, but were released as gardai had no knowledge that all four were wanted for murder. The four murder suspects (from left) Ranei Wilks, Caleb Awe, Aquade Jeffers and Enham Nishat Wilks (23) gave himself up in April 2024 when he landed at Leeds Bradford Airport on a flight from Turkey. Detectives from West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team are still seeking Aquade Jeffers, Caleb Awe, and Enham Nishat who they have previously named as suspects for Jamies murder and the attempted murder of the 16-year-old victim. Opening the case for the prosecution, Imran Shafi told the jury the two groups were "rivals" and both engaged in drug dealing. The court heard that Mr Meah and Mr Priestley had taken a taxi to various locations across west Leeds on the day of the incident, the BBC reports. They eventually arrived at Hall Lane in Armley, at its junction with Brooklyn Terrace, late in the afternoon. There, Mr Priestley got out of the taxi shortly before 5.30pm to approach known customers when he noticed a silver Mercedes parked nearby. The boy "turned tail" and ran back to the taxi but three passengers got out of the Mercedes and dragged the two teenagers out of the vehicle. Mr Shafi said the pair were then subjected to a "vicious, sustained, barbaric and brutal assault". The taxi driver heard one of the passengers shout dont stab me before they were both dragged out and stabbed, kicked and punched repeatedly. One of the suspects is alleged to have carried a "long knife", described by the taxi driver as a sword measuring between three and four feet. Mr Meah ran to a nearby house and asked for an ambulance to be called, but lost consciousness before paramedics arrived. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, he passed away. It was later found that a stab wound to his leg had severed the femoral artery, causing catastrophic haemorrhaging and led to his death. Mr Priestley fled to a nearby fish and chip shop. Despite having multiple lacerations, his injuries were not life threatening. When the Mercedes, a hired car, was found abandoned in Bradford days after the murder finger prints from the suspects were found inside the vehicle. Murdered teen Jamie Meah Ranei Wilks (23) is standing trial accused of murdering Mr Meah and attempting to murder Mr Priestley, and two counts of possession of a bladed article, one of which relates to a separate incident. The taxi driver later gave statements to the police saying it was Wilks who was wielding the sword during the attack. Wilks, of no fixed address, denies murder, attempted murder and two counts of possessing a bladed article. One bladed article charge relates to the murder, with the second from July 2022 when he was in the passenger seat of a car where a large knife was found. It was said the four suspects fled to Ireland the day after the attacks, where they were arrested over a "petty theft" on April 5. However, they were released shortly afterwards as gardai did not know they were wanted by UK police. Mr Wilks, of no fixed abode, was arrested on arrival at Leeds Bradford Airport in April 2024, after flying back into the UK from Turkey. Outlining his defence, Louise Blackwell told the jury Mr Wilks was present in the vehicle when the attack happened, but denied "participating in it or encouraging it". She said he had fled the UK with the group "out of fear". She added that Mr Wilks also had "no knowledge" of a "zombie knife" the prosecution say was found in his possession when the car he was in was stopped in July 2022, eight months before Mr Meah was killed. The trial continues and is expected to last two weeks. The three-year-old is halfway through treatment for acute lymphoblastic lymphoma, following her shock diagnosis in September 2023 Pacemaker Press 17-12-2024: Sunday World NI blood transfusion service Christmas feature about giving blood. Roisin Gorman pictured at the Blood Transfusion service, in Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press Little Aria Stevensons smiles are thanks to the kindness of strangers whose blood donations have helped her through chemotherapy. The three-year-old is halfway through treatment for acute lymphoblastic lymphoma, following her shock diagnosis in September 2023. Since starting intensive chemo last year Aria has received five blood transfusions and six platelet transfusions, which mum Gillian says has helped keep her alive. With husband Gavin shes now become a blood donor, encouraged members of their families to sign up and taken part in a Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service appeal for more people to come forward. Northern Ireland needs 1,800 donors a week, around one every eight minutes. Aria has benefited from donations from 11 people and will probably need more, with her treatment set to continue until January 2026. She wouldnt have survived without the transfusions, and the chemo, says Gillian. She couldnt even sit up on that morning of her first transfusion. After it she was sitting up eating an apple. You can see the difference from her being really pale and tired to bouncing about. Aria Stevenson The family noticed last summer that the Derry toddler was losing her appetite and becoming lethargic. During their regular evening walks, shed complain that her knees were sore and ask to be carried. When her lips turned blue their out-of-hours GP service advised Arias parents to take her to A&E, where doctors suspected a viral infection. A few days later when the little girl couldnt get off the sofa, Gillian took her to their GP, who checked her over and noticed tiny pinprick red dots on her knees. They were sent straight to Alnagelvin Hospitals paediatric department where blood tests showed Aria had the rare form of leukemia. It was the day of the strike and we were warned the results might take a bit longer, and after three hours a doctor came and put us in a wee room, and asked me to get my husband to come over, says Gillian. Gavin came over and they told us it was acute lymphoblastic lymphoma. The first things I asked were is it terminal and can you treat it? They told us the treatment is really good for this type of cancer, but its very long. The next day Aria was in the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children and a few days later her treatment started. I think they told us 95pc of her blood cells were leukaemia, says Gillian. While the chemo kills off the cancer cells, it also suppresses Arias immune system and her ability to fight infection, which is why the platelet transfusions are so essential. Last Christmas she was messing around in the house with her sister and she fell and banged her head, which came up in a lump. The hospital told us to come up and her platelets level was five, so she had to have a platelet transfusion on New Years Day. Aria is now on daily maintenance chemo at home and monthly clinic treatments. Gillian says she and Gavin both teachers only started to process their daughters diagnosis and treatment this summer, and if there is the slightest change in Arias health they have to drive straight to Belfast, which also impacts her big sister Isla (8). Any time Aria had a temperature we had to go straight to Belfast, so we could all be waking up in the middle of the night and into the car, she says. Pacemaker Press 17-12-2024: Sunday World NI blood transfusion service Christmas feature about giving blood. Roisin Gorman pictured at the Blood Transfusion service, in Belfast. Picture By: Arthur Allison/Pacemaker Press And its made them determined to speak out about the importance of blood donation. I had given blood when I was younger and then family came along, says Gillian. I said to Gavin we need to be giving blood and paying back. This is something we need to do, and a lot of our family members are fit and healthy, why cant they do it? I dont think people know how easy it is and how often its on. Its a really quick thing to do. Its a really good thing to do and its really necessary. We feel so passionate about it and people need to know how much its needed, says Gillian. The NIBTS is on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@givebloodNI), LinkedIn, and Nextdoor. For more information go to www.nibts.org or contact its donation line on 08085 534 653. Seven years ago, Andrew Davidson, a graphic designer from Gilnahirk, was forced to face the reality of sight loss after being diagnosed with advanced glaucoma Andrew Davidson will take on the challenge of a lifetime. Andrew Davidson receives some last-minute advice from Angela Knox (r), Consultant Ophthalmologist and Clinical Lead for glaucoma services at the Shankill Wellbeing & Treatment Centre, along with his friend and fellow trekker Claire Bonner. A Belfast man with limited vision is taking on his biggest challenge yet to raise funds for the treatment of glaucoma in Northern Ireland. Seven years ago, Andrew Davidson, a graphic designer from Gilnahirk, was forced to face the reality of sight loss after being diagnosed with advanced glaucoma. Thanks to the care of his close optician friend, the glaucoma team at the Shankill Wellbeing & Treatment Clinic in Belfast, and the world-famous Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, he has retained limited sight in one eye. Andrew has made it his mission to pay it back to the Shankill Clinic, by raising funds for advanced diagnostic equipment which will enable the early detection and treatment of glaucoma. On 17 January Andrew, along with his wife, daughter, and 11 close friends, sets off to Tanzania, where he will lead an eight-day trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro, Africas highest mountain. I believe in the power of progress in the fight against glaucoma, said Andrew who recently took early retirement from his role as Head of Graphics at BBC NI. Known for his positive spirit and dogged determination, Andrew is also a talented artist and plans to start a degree in Fine Art when he returns from his African adventure. I admit I was floored when I was first diagnosed, and could easily have fallen into the victim trap, said Andrew. But the expert care and generous support I received from the glaucoma team at the Shankill Clinic was a game-changer. Their actions went above and beyond, preserving my remaining sight and helping me through the darkest of times. Andrew Davidson will take on the challenge of a lifetime. Andrew, who has always been active, previously led fundraising trips to Cambodia, Tanzania, India and Poland in aid of Habitat for Humanity. Reflecting on all he has achieved, Andrew pays credit to his family, friendship group and the power of community spirit. I hit many low ebbs and there were times when I thought my window for independence and opportunity was firmly shut. But the Gilnahirk community is strong and when a good friend suggested I try Park Run at Stormont, it was the catalyst which changed my mindset. In December, Andrew clocked his 178th Park Run. Over the last seven years he has also skied, cycled (on a tandem), is a regular at the gym, and completes an average of two dawn runs each week with another friend from his Gilnahirk community. I try to think of my sight limitations as a different way of viewing life. Ive a new-found strength and determination to show the world I wont be defined by glaucoma. Andrew established Pressure-Eyes with the goal of raising 40,000 by the end of 2025. In addition to the Kilimanjaro trek, he is organising a concert in March and a gala ball in October. In Northern Ireland glaucoma affects 2pc of the population over the age of 40, rising to 5pc for those aged over 80, but around half arent aware they have a problem. According to Angela Knox, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Clinical Lead for glaucoma services at the Shankill Wellbeing & Treatment Centre it could be described as a hidden disease. Regular eye tests with a community optometrist can detect the disease at an early stage. But glaucoma patients require lifelong assessment, treatment and monitoring by specialists. This is essential to detect disease progression and manage treatment accordingly. Diagnosis can be devastating but with appropriate early detection and management, progression can be slowed, and adverse effects minimised. "We are currently monitoring 14,000 patients and there are hundreds more awaiting first assessment, which places great demand on limited resources. The funds raised by Andrew and his team will be a huge boost for our clinic, enabling us to enhance patient engagement, and extend our monitoring and teaching services. On why summiting Kilimanjaro is so important to him, Andrew said: Our vision is something we often take for granted at least until it deteriorates, or we lose it completely. Chris McCauslands amazing performance on Strictly Come Dancing has helped to focus the spotlight on sight-loss, reframing how we think about disabilities and individual potential. Together with my gang of intrepid trekkers, we are thanking the Shankill clinic for all it has done for me. And in a practical way helping treat and maybe someday finding a cure for this horrible condition. The 14 Kilimanjaro climbers are paying for the trek themselves.100pc of the funds raised will go to the Shankill Wellbeing and Treatment Clinic. Donations can be made here. Mr Howell, one of the partys key backroom figures through political negotiations and the Stormont Assembly, died at the age of 78 last week Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald has paid tribute to lifelong Irish republican Ted Howell as a patriot during his funeral in west Belfast. Ms McDonald, as well as Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill and former president Gerry Adams took turns helping to carry Mr Howells coffin from his family home to Milltown cemetery where he was laid to rest alongside his wife. Mr Howell, one of the partys key backroom figures through political negotiations and the Stormont Assembly, died at the age of 78 last week. His funeral heard that mourners came from across the world, including the United States, Canada, Spain and South Africa to attend. Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams leaving the home of Ted Howell (Liam McBurney/PA) The funeral service was conducted by Father Gary Donegan at Mr Howells home, and broadcast from the house to those gathered outside in falling snow on Tuesday morning before the procession to the cemetery. Mr Howell was a strategist and negotiator for Sinn Fein and believed to be a close adviser to Mr Adams. He took part in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations and talks on the New Decade/New Approach power sharing deal in 2020. He also served as Sinn Feins director of foreign affairs during the Troubles and was a member of the partys ard comhairle (national executive). During the so-called cash for ash inquiry, it emerged that Sinn Feins finance minister at Stormont, Mairtin O Muilleoir, had sought approval from Mr Howell to sign off on a business plan for the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. This was used to criticise Sinn Fein as a party ultimately controlled by shadowy figures. Speaking at Milltown, Ms McDonald said tributes have been paid to Mr Howell from people across the world. Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald giving a graveside narration for Ted Howell at Milltown Cemetery in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) Ted Howell was a patriot, a family man, a proud Belfast man, a united Irelander, an internationalist and it is no surprise that we have travelled from the four corners of Ireland but also from Canada, from the US, from Britain, from the Basque country and that messages have poured in to Teds family and friends from all four corners of the globe to recognise this extraordinary man, she said. Ted Howell was a significant figure in the Irish struggle for freedom from his earliest days and he remained a true and faithful servant of our struggle until his very very last. Mr Adams, described as a lifelong friend of Mr Howell, recalled sharing a bunk bed while they were both interned at Long Kesh prison camp in the 1970s. All of us will have stories of Ted his family members, his lifelong friends, his neighbours, his comrades, his local butcher, his drinking companions, former prisoners, people from the Felons Club or the Horseshoe bar, Gaza or the Basque country, Long Kesh or London or the USA, Canada or South Africa, he said. Stories about his humour, his generosity, his loyalty, his lifelong commitment to republicanism and those of us who worked with him for decades value his friendship and his mischief making, his craic and his insights into the human condition. Teds life was full and he loved life, and no oration can do justice to him. Mr Adams went on to recall Mr Howell living in Canada for just a couple of months, and returning to Belfast amid the civil rights campaign and saw a warzone develop following the events including the battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday in Derry and the introduction of internment. Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams giving a graveside narration for Ted Howell at Milltown Cemetery in Belfast, alongside Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald. (Liam McBurney/PA) Ted took part in protest marches then he joined the Irish Republican Army, he said. In March 1972 he was arrested, he was interned, first on the prison ship Maidstone and then in Long Kesh camp. Mr Adams described the 1980s as being a significant decade of change for Sinn Fein building a peace strategy, talks with then SDLP leader John Hume and moving into the 1990s when multi party talks resulted in the signing of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Ted was at the heart of it all, he said. Ted had great politics . he understood strategy and the need for the national question to be constantly at the centre of Sinn Feins strategy and of all our work. He was a member of the partys uniting Ireland committee up until his death. He was also deeply involved in Sinn Feins international outreach, he sought help for the Irish cause but also provided help to other liberation struggles and peace processes. Ted was one of us, he was the best of us. MI5 continue to rattle New IRA suspects with a fresh campaign of private text messages as 2025 gets under way It might be a new year but its the same old message for the New IRA from MI5 after 25 alleged members of the terror group were sent private texts. And we can reveal the New Years Day message has caused embarrassment for New IRA boss Thomas Ashe Mellon by referencing his leadership. As revealed here, dissident republicans in Derry have been targeted by MI5 with a series of text messages sent to those the British spooks believe are either in the terror gang as well as family members and those they believe may be being used to store guns for them. The MI5 messages are regularly posted on social media by the New IRAs political wing Saoradh however, this latest message has not been made public by them and sources in Derry say thats because this particular message touches a raw nerve with their alleged leader Thomas Ashe Mellon. The MI5 text message The latest message was delivered to the 25 people MI5 believe are members of the New IRA in Derry at exactly 5pm on New Years Day. It stated: Another year; what has threatening and exploiting the vulnerable achieved? Ask yourself: arent you also being exploited? I doubt your leadership are thinking about you taking the risks when they are on multiple holidays a year. Its 2025, is this still the activity you want done in your name? There are better paths to take. As revealed here in the last few months, MI5 believe their brazen text message tactics are bearing fruit. But when previous text messages were sent they were almost immediately posted on social media by the New IRAs political wing. This was a big message this time because they have gone straight for the members of the New IRA in Derry city, said a source. It was sent on New Years Day to 25 people but dont expect this one to be reported by them on Facebook because it will touch a raw nerve for Ashe Mellon. People in the city have grown tired of him and his gang taking advantage of vulnerable people through their loan sharking and getting people who are desperate to hide gear for them. Sources have also told us the move to expel loan shark John Popa Kelly from Saoradh was nothing more than a publicity stunt. Kelly was exposed 15 months ago during a bail hearing where he was accused of being involved in loan-sharking activities. When Kelly appeared in court in October 2023 on firearms charges, which were later dropped, a prosecutor said: Police believe he [Kelly] runs a money-lending scheme on their [New IRAs] behalf, which would fit in with him lending money to family members. However, it took him being exposed in our sister newspaper, Sunday Life, for Saoradh to say they had decided to kick him out. In a bizarre and confused message on Facebook, the republicans said media reports were wrongly linking republicans to the act of loan sharking and money lending. John Popa Kelly Yet, in the very same post they said: The individual [John Popa Kelly] named in recent media outlets who has been linked to money lending schemes has been expelled from Saoradh. Once we became aware of his nefarious activities, the man was immediately dismissed. The individual in question is no longer involved in any form of republicanism, and is being viewed as an outcast within the community. We recently revealed how Mellons beleaguered unit has been taking advantage of vulnerable people including drug addicts and alcoholics by getting them to store weapons and other terrorist paraphernalia. And we made reference to a notorious loan shark who has made it possible for several of the Derry leadership, including Mellon, to drive top-of-the-range luxury cars, despite none of them working a day in their lives. That loan shark is Mellons second-in-command who had been tipped to take over as OC until MI5 began targeting his gang and is now running scared of being exposed after he was humiliated in a fight on a bus to Dublin to see Derry City play in the cup final. According to sources, fellow fans on the bus who hate him were reading our article that Sunday morning and started singing loooan shark to the tune of that song Baby Shark towards him. Last week MI5 went for him and his loan shark pals with a number of texts and we can reveal they even sent one to his wife. The text message stated: This is MI5. You will understand why we cant contact your partner directly at the moment. We are concerned that he is raising money for the new IRA. This activity facilitates terrorism and harms the local community. We would advise him to cease this activity and step away from the new IRA, as many others are doing. If he would like support to do this, please contact this number. A source told the Sunday World how the loan shark, who we cant identify at this stage for legal reasons, gets others to do his dirty work. He gets his cronies to do all of the donkey work regards the money lending and they are thick enough not to see it for the pyramid scheme that it is, said the source. Hes exploiting his underlings as much as anyone else as they are the ones taking the risk while he and Thomas Mellon reap the benefits. But republican sources say the statement on Kelly was just a publicity stunt to protect the main loan shark, who is believed to be bankrolling Ashe Mellon and other senior dissidents. The latest MI5 message makes a direct reference to Ashe Mellon and other leaders going on several holidays a year and that is because they are being bank-rolled by [name removed] who is the main money lender, says a source. Theres no way they are going to get rid of him because he gets them luxury cars to drive and the cash to pay for all the holidays. They cant get rid of [name removed], but the story is out of control now. This is a PR exercise, Popa was a foot soldier in this, nothing more than that, [name removed] was the main man and he was pulling the strings, but because he gives Mellon a car and pays for his multiple holidays a year he gets away with it? The New IRAs New Year message posted on a wall in Dublin Meanwhile, the New IRA posted their New Years statement to a wall in Dublin on the same day their terror gang was getting message from MI5. The predictable message promised more violence and praised those republican currently in prison and commended volunteers of the IRA. We urge you to continue your training, to stay focused, vigilant and prepared to strike at the crown forces when ordered to do so, it said. Status Orange warning issued for Tuesday night and Wednesday morning Thousands still without power as some schools close after heavy snowfall Ireland is in the grips of an icy blast that has caused parts of the country to grind to a halt. Met Eireann has issued Status Orange low temperature and ice warnings for 25 counties The first Status Orange warning will come into effect for 22 counties in Munster and Connacht as well as counties Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Cavan and Monaghan from 8pm tonight. Met Eireann has said extremely cold and widespread severe frost, ice and lying snow could lead to dangerous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot, travel disruption and delays and animal welfare issues in these areas. It will remain in effect until 10am on Wednesday. A second Status Orange warning for all counties with the exception of Donegal will come into effect at 6pm on Wednesday evening and will remain in place until 11am on Thursday. A nationwide Status Yellow Low Temperature and Ice warning is currently in place and will be in effect until 6am on Friday morning. Age Action Ireland has urged people to check in with elderly neighbours as temperatures drop and the risk of further power outages or disruption to water supplies continues. "For the community generally to call into their elderly neighbours, even if you don't know the person very well, they would be very happy to see you. Maybe call to the door or if you don't want to disturb somebody, drop in a card with your phone number on it," said Age Action's Nat O'Connor, speaking to RTE's Morning Ireland. "Most people will be fine, but it's good that they know someone is there, so that they have a number they can call if something happens, if the electricity is cut off or something like that. "It's really a case of looking out for older people who may be living on their own, who may not have friends or family living nearby, just so people are aware that now is the time, if you have the opportunity to just knock on the door or drop in a card, so people know that someone is there if they need help." Cold snap safety advice Home care service provider Home Instead has encouraged people to support elderly neighbours, friends and family in the cold weather. Stay connected with elderly and vulnerable friends, family members and neighbours. Check in with them and what they might need for the week ahead, including whether their mobile phones, emergency pendant or personal alarms are fully charged and close to hand. Wear layers of clothing and keep internal windows and doors closed as significant temperature drops can lead to health complications for ageing adults. Ensure elderly have access to essentials, including groceries, solid fuels and medical prescriptions. Eat well with regular, hot meals. Make sure pathways are cleared from wet leaves, internal draughts are blocked, and electrical devices are unplugged when not in use. Plan for emergencies and make sure older adults have access to fuel and non-perishable food in the event of a power outage, as well as access to contact numbers for friends, family and neighbours. Some 10,000 still without power in worst affected counties The number of homes and businesses without power has dropped from around 40,000 on Monday morning to 10,000 this morning as ESB crews continue to work to repair and restore the network. Conditions in some counties, in particular Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary, are still challenging and have made repairs difficult. ESB Regional Manager Brian Tapley has said crews have had to travel by helicopter to work to repair damage to the line at Newcastle West in Co Limerick. He told RTE's Morning Ireland that crews are working with the Department of Defence, local authorities and agricultural contractors in areas where access is "extremely difficult". Part of the roof has collapsed under the weight of snow at Tralee Sports Complex in Co Kerry. Photo: Domnick Walsh An Arctic lorry is stuck on the R585 at Cousane in west Cork, with the local council warning that the road will remain closed today. "Road conditions are very challenging across the county this morning even on routes that were recently treated. Cork County Council is advising essential travel only," it said. "Our salters and ploughs were out throughout the night. However, there are reports of dangerous conditions right across the county. "National primary and national secondary routes are passable with extreme care. However, dont assume a road is safe even it is has been recently treated." Farmers 'stepping up to the mark' to support HSE and elderly in Kerry Jason Fleming, the chair of the Irish Farmers' Association in Kerry, said main roads in the county that has been hit hard by freezing conditions are gritted but it is increasingly difficult to travel on by-way roads. He told RTE's Morning Ireland that farmers are "stepping up to the mark" to support the HSE with deliveries of medical supplies and transport healthcare workers to Tralee General Hospital. Mr Fleming said he is concerned about the risks posed to vulnerable elderly people by power outages and dropping temperatures in the county. Delays to train services due to 'heavy snow' at Banteer Irish Rail has said the 06.25am train from Cork to Tralee and the 07.05am train from Tralee to Heuston will both operate 30 minutes behind schedule due to heavy snow on the points in Banteer. All routes are planned to operate today, but Irish Rail has warned that delays and disruption may occur. "Widespread black ice" causing treacherous conditions on roads across Co Cork Cork City Council has warned that even routes that have already been treated by local crews are experiencing black ice this morning and the local authority has asked motorists to avoid unnecessary journeys and take "extreme caution" if they must travel. Im going to have a great fun time and hopefully leave with someone Maura Higgins ex Curtis Pritchard has been confirmed as one of the Love Island All Stars to appear on a new series of the hit show. Dancing With The Stars pro dancer, Curtis, who first appeared on the on the show back in 2019, will join series 11 contestant Ronnie Vint, series three islander Gabby Allen, series five star Elma Pazar, and series 10's Catherine Agbaje. With Maya Jama returning as host, series six islander Nas Majeed, series nine star Olivia Hawkins, series eight islander Luca Bish, series five islander India Reynolds, and series threes Marcel Somerville complete this years line-up. Speaking ahead of the official announcement this morning, Pritchard said: "I feel like Im in a different stage in my life. "The idea of settling down is a serious idea in my life right now. I havent found my true love that sounds so cheesy, doesnt it? "So, I thought Lets give it another go. It was great fun last time; a lot of emotions. Curtis and Maura hooked up in 2019 "I feel excited to go back. Im going to have a great fun time and hopefully leave with someone. Its exciting." I'm A Celeb star, Maura (34) and the 28-year-old professional dancer first connected in the villa, where they made it into the final of the fifth instalment of the series. Curtis came in fourth place alongside Maura after they received the least votes from the public. However, the romance fizzled out and they parted ways just eight months later. When it was revealed that Curtis was re-joining the show, Maura was reportedly worried he might spill secrets about their past relationship. The former Love Island star, who is fresh from her stint in the Im A Celebrity jungle, is believed to be in a new relationship with Pete Wicks. They both sparked rumours that they spent Christmas together in Ireland after they were snapped as they loaded suitcases into car. However, Maura previously discussed her experience on Love Island on Paul C Brunson's We Need To Talk podcast where she described her ex Curtis as a why not man. Explaining she only dated him due to there being limited options in the villa, she said: When you're locked in a house, I say locked but you're in a house and you're in there for X amount of time. You're going to start liking people that you wouldn't normally like. Not to be mean but you are, you're in there. I'm pretty sure it would probably be the same on Big Brother. You're locked in a house; you're not seeing any other men. You're going to be like 'why not'. Despite the awkwardness, Curtis previously praised the Longford model after they bumped into each other on Love Island Games in 2023. Maura served as the shows social media ambassador after impressing Love Island bosses when she performed the same role on the US version of the programme while Curtis returned as a contestant. Speaking on the Nikki and Brie Show, Curtis admitted: Yeah we did [bump into each other] to be fair actually. She did a great job on the show. But yeah, we did see each other, and we saw each other outside the villa as well after the whole programme was done. We bumped into each other and we did an after interview. We were all civil, it was good. I was asking how she is, hows the family doing, hows everything going and told her she looked good and [congratulated her] on the job she did on the show. It was civil. We bumped onto each other and it was nice to say hello actually. Maura had also discussed seeing too familiar faces on Love Island Games which included Curtis. Capital Late Show host Kem Cetinay had asked if he should actually call Curtis her ex. Well, we have to say ex really nowadays. By your reaction, it was a bit of a weird one, wasnt it? Do you know what, like, everyones very excited about this because obviously they know that I would have had to interview him like, if he gets dumped from the show or if he makes the final, Maura explained. So yeah, we could have a run-in there. So yeah, I mean, I dont know how much I can say but it was interesting. The new contestants revealed Im sure there will be an interview at one point?, Kem asked Maura replied: Yeah, there is an interview. Like, I dont really know if I can say that or not. But I mean, there is an interview and Im trying to think back like how it went like I think it was okay, I think I was nice. I think, Maura continued. I think there might have been moments where I wasnt too polite, but I think I made it more of a joke. Pritchard had previously spoken about his relationship with Maura and her romance with "best friend" Chris Taylor. Speaking on Celebs Go Dating in 2021 he explained: "I've never ever thought I wanted to say bad things about anybody but my former relationship wasn't the healthiest, shall we say. "She wasn't my usual type, dead hot, fiery character and behind closed doors I'm a fiery character - in dance you have to be - and in the bedroom and stuff, I am like that a little bit you know." Love Island: All Stars series two starts on Monday, January 13 at 9pm on Virgin Media Two. Volunteer lifeguards have aided in a number of rescues over the weekend, including a dislocated shoulder and a dolphin rescue. Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO Steve Fisher personally praised the efforts of volunteers. At a time when many Kiwis are enjoying time with friends and whanau, our volunteer lifeguards are hard at work at more than 80 beaches across the country, including on Christmas Day. Just this weekend alone, our dedicated team of lifeguards have patrolled beaches for over 8500 combined hours, keeping beachgoers safer. Every hour on a patrolled beach is an hour away from a volunteers own friends and whanau, and we are enormously grateful for the dedication our lifeguards continue to demonstrate. SLSNZ also acknowledges the New Zealand public for their support of volunteer lifeguards. Every time you choose to swim between the flags, consider our beach safety messages, or just say a friendly hello to our lifeguards, you dont just make lifeguards jobs easier you also make it enjoyable, says Fisher. SLSNZ is pleased to report a relatively calm weekend, however surf lifeguards were kept busy with first aid responses, preventative actions, and searches. In the Northern Region, lifeguards at Piha carried out a land and water search for two missing teenagers near North Pihas waters edge. They were found safely shortly after the search began. Meanwhile, Bethells Beach Search and Rescue assisted Hato Hone St John with the transport of a patient who had suffered a head injury at Lake Wainamu. The Eastern Region saw six first aid incidents on Saturday, including an elderly woman at Tairua who was assisted after a fall and a young adult with a dislocated shoulder at Mt Maunganuis Shark Alley. It wasnt just beachgoers receiving support from lifeguards this weekend. On Sunday, the Southern Region saw Warrington lifeguards help rescue a dolphin trapped in Blueskin Bay. Preventative efforts remain a key focus for lifeguards, with 576 preventative actions conducted across the country on Saturday and Sunday, involving more than 7000 beachgoers. Preventative actions often go unnoticed but are essential in keeping beachgoers safe, said Andy Kent, SLSNZ General Manager of Lifesaving. By addressing potential hazards before they become emergencies, our lifeguards help ensure everyone can enjoy their day at the beach safely. Lifeguards are there to monitor hazards, assist in emergencies, and provide expert advice. For real-time beach conditions, visit www.safeswim.org.nz, and in case of an emergency, call 111 and ask for police. Weekend Patrol Statistics: Eastern Region: Saturday: Tairua lifeguards provided first aid to an elderly woman who had fallen over until an ambulance arrived and transported her to hospital. Mt Maunganui lifeguards provided first aid to a young adult who had dislocated their shoulder swimming at Shark Alley. Paramedics assessed the patient and referred them to a GP. The Mauao Response Team was activated for a person who had collapsed at the top of Mount Maunganui. They were stood down shortly after when the patient presented to a waiting ambulance themselves. Lifeguards at Mt Maunganui assisted a person who had collapsed and was vomiting on the beach until an ambulance arrived. Sunday: Nothing of note. Saturday Sunday No. of people rescued 6 0 No. of people assisted 15 0 No. of major first aids 2 0 No. of minor first aids 10 2 No. of searches 2 0 No. of preventatives 76 69 No. of people involved 3212 1462 Peak Head Count + Location + Time 950 460 Total Hours Worked 1257 1291 Key Safety Messages: 2024/25 season 1. Know How To Float - Me Mohio koe me Pehea te Manu If you dont know how to float, dont go into the water. Just being able to float when you are in the water can increase your chance of survival. Floating allows you to calm yourself and keep your airways out of the water. It is also the first thing to do if you get caught in a rip. If you dont know how to float well, practice or get some lessons in a pool before you head to the beach - being able to float is a key skill when learning to swim. Anyone can learn to float but some people may take a little longer to learn. 2. Find The Safest Place To Swim - Kimihia te Wahi Haumaru Rawa Ki Te Kaukau Remember if you are heading to the beach, check www.safeswim.org.nz to find a lifeguarded beach, and always swim between the red and yellow flags, which show the safest place to swim. The surf lifeguards are there to help keep beachgoers safe, by keeping a constant eye on sea as they continuously scan for hazards or people in difficulty, keeping on top of weather forecasts and understanding the swell and tide conditions too. 3. If In Doubt, Stay Out - Mehemea e Rangirua Ana, Me Noho Ki Waho Waves can be bigger than they look, dangerous rip currents are hard to spot and weather conditions can be unpredictable. If you feel uncomfortable about getting into the water, stay out. Its better to be safe than sorry. Too many people get into trouble in the water because they overestimate their abilities and underestimate the conditions. 4. Take Care of Others - Tiakina te Tangata Always keep children within arms reach in or near the water. Waves can move quickly and unexpectedly and can knock kids off their feet and sweep them away. Everyone has different levels of ability, so watch out for your mates too. 5. Know How to Get Help - Me Mohio koe me Pehea te Kimi Awhina If someone in the water is in trouble and surf lifeguards are on patrol, let them know. If you cant see any surf lifeguards, call 111 and ask for police. Police have a direct line to surf lifeguards and others who can help. If youre in the water and in trouble yourself, signal for help. Mayhem ensued on January 6 as a vegetation fire brought traffic to a standstill along State Highway 2. At the same time, a power outage affected more 200 properties in the area. A power outage occurred at 1.48pm and was restored at 6.45pm, according to a PowerCo spokesperson. Tree debris had fallen on to a power line, and the power was left off at Fire and Emergency New Zealands request so the fire could be extinguished, the spokesperson said. While the incidents happened around the same time, a Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said the cause of the fire has not been determined. The fire was reported to be near the bridge between Barrett Rd and Te Karaka Dr at 1.48pm. Fire crews from Omokoroa, Greerton, Katikati, Tauranga, Waihi and Te Puke attended, according to an online Fire and Emergency incident report. No injuries were recorded at the fire, and St Johns was on standby during the incident, a spokesperson said. We were on standby but not required. Congestion cleared up at 6.45pm after the fire was extinguished by Fire and Emergency New Zealand, according to the NZTA Waka Kotahi. An alternative northbound route is via SH29 Kaimai Range on to SH24 on to SH27 on to SH26 before rejoining SH2. The southbound detour was in reverse. Traffic congestion on State Highway 2 near Te Puna Stream, Whakamarama, had eased at 6.45am, according to NZTA Waka Kotahi. Traffic levels have returned to normal. Tauranga will come alive with the colourful and lively Sikh Parade, as the local Sikh community celebrates the birth of the 10th Master, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, on Sunday. The annual event will showcase Sikh culture and traditions, with vibrant floats, traditional costumes, and festive displays of community spirit. A very exciting time, a wonderful time for the Sikh community, said Puran Singh, one of the parade organisers and president of the Tauranga Sikh community. Participants in a previous Tauranga Sikh parade. Photo: Supplied. The parade starts at 11am at the Gurudwara Sikh Sangat temple at 43 Burrows Street, before winding its way through central Tauranga. Participants from Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton, and Auckland will walk the route, with some riding in decorated trucks. The procession will pass down 14th Avenue and Devonport Road, before stopping at Tauranga Boys' College carpark for speeches. The journey will continue to Memorial Park, Fraser Park, and return to the temple. Organisers expect more than 1500 participants, including many from Tauranga's vibrant Sikh community, which numbers around 10,000 in the Bay of Plenty region. Participants in a previous Tauranga Sikh parade. Photo: Supplied. Singh also emphasised that the parade is open to everyone, inviting people from all backgrounds to join in the celebrations. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join us, Singh said. Guru Gobind Singh, the last of the 10 Sikh Gurus, transformed the Sikh faith and in 1699 created the Khalsa, a community of the faithful who wore visible symbols of their faith and trained as warriors. He commanded them to wear the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (a wooden comb for the hair), Kara (an iron bracelet), Kachera (tied undergarment) and Kirpan (an iron dagger for defence). The day marking the birth of the 10th Guru is regarded as a sacred day for Sikhs, comparable to Christmas for Christians. Guru Gobind Singhs introduction of the turban and the salwar kameez remains a defining element of Sikh culture today. The route will also include a purification ritual, with women sweeping the path to prepare it for the procession carrying the holy book of Sikh followers. Photo: Supplied. During the parade, roadways will be lined with enthusiastic spectators, as temple members offer refreshments like water and fruit to keep everyone energised. The route will also include a purification ritual, with women sweeping the path to prepare it for the procession carrying the holy book of Sikh followers. To ensure the safety of participants and spectators, several road closures will be in effect from 11am to 3pm on January 12. Burrows Street will be fully closed, and rolling closures will impact sections of 14th Avenue, Devonport Road, Eleventh Avenue, Fraser Street, and Thirteenth Avenue as the parade progresses. Road access will be maintained where possible, and traffic management staff will be on hand to assist residents and businesses. Participants in a previous Tauranga Sikh parade. Photo: Supplied. The Sikh Parade is a significant cultural event for Tauranga, offering the community a chance to witness the rich traditions of Sikhism. Its a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, celebrate, and learn about our culture, said Singh. JUBA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan said Tuesday that it would resume the production and export of crude oil to the international market through Port Sudan starting Wednesday. Minister for Petroleum Puot Kang Chol said the government has been collaborating with Sudan's Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC), a consortium of oil exploration and production companies, Bashayer Pipeline Company, the company in charge of the pipeline, and China National Petroleum Corporation, among other international partners, to guarantee the resuming of the oil production. "The Ministry of Petroleum and partners are hereby directing DPOC to kick-off resumption of crude production and operation as early as Jan. 8," the minister told journalists in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. He noted that the Dar Blend's production would start in Blocks 3 and 7, with a target of 90,000 barrels daily in the first six months and then would rise. Chol said that partners raised several concerns about technical readiness to resume production, including force majeure and security assurance, which he said had been addressed. The flow of South Sudan's crude oil through the Sudanese pipeline was disrupted after the infrastructure was damaged in early 2024 due to the ongoing clashes between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which erupted in mid-April 2023. Currently, South Sudan depends on Sudan's oil infrastructure to transport crude through Port Sudan for export to international markets. A serious two-vehicle crash has shut State Highway 1 at Piarere in South Waikato and left five people injured Emergency services were alerted to the crash, about 5.30am. A witness on the scene moments after the crash, who would not be named, said both vehicles looked badly damaged. They were both pretty banged up, I could see the crash was still really fresh when we arrived, it had only just happened. The woman said she saw emergency services moving back and forth working to extract people from the vehicles. I saw the two cars facing towards each other and people still in them, she said. Hato Hone St John said five people have been taken to Waikato hospital with serious injuries. They responded with five ambulances and two rapid response vehicles. SH1 is blocked between Horahora Rd and Paparamu Rd. The New Zealand Transport Agency advised motorists in a post online to consider delaying their journey or allow extra time for a detour using SH27 and SH29, via Hinuera. Traffic management is being arranged, and motorists are advised to expect delays. A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson told the Herald three people were trapped in one of the vehicles. We have been working to extricate them, they said. They have four crews on the scene from Putaruru and Tirau. "State Highway 1 is blocked between Horahora Road and Paparamu Road and traffic management is being arranged. "Motorists are advised to expect delays." Alekk M. Saanders Malaga Tuesday, 7 January 2025, 16:54 Compartir Most Christians in the world celebrate the birthday of Jesus on 25 December, but there are also those who stick to tradition, celebrating Old Christmas, or rather, Orthodox Christmas. Calling 7 January Orthodox Christmas is not so unusual. While many Orthodox Christians in Greece, Romania and Bulgaria have been celebrating Christmas on 25 December for over a hundred years, at the same time, a significant number of Orthodox Christians celebrate it on or around 7 January, following the Julian calendar. Not exactly Orthodox The ancient church set its religious holidays according to the Julian calendar, but after more than a millennium, this calendar deviated more and more from the solar year. So in the 16th century, Pope Gregory XIII approved a revised, more astronomically accurate calendar that has borne his name ever since. Over time, Protestant churches, as well as secular governments, followed the example of Catholics and switched to this calendar. For example, England accepted the Gregorian calendar in 1752. About 170 years later all Eastern Orthodox churches raised the issue of changing the calendar. In 1923, an inter-Orthodox meeting adopted a revised Julian calendar, which essentially mirrors the Gregorian calendar In 1923, an inter-Orthodox meeting adopted a revised Julian calendar, which essentially mirrors the Gregorian calendar. The Greek Orthodox Church as well as churches in Romania and Bulgaria moved Christmas to 25 December. The Russian Orthodox Church, along with the Ukrainian and Belarusian, as well as Serbian and Georgian churches, nevertheless remained on the old calendar, continuing celebrating Christmas on 7 January. It was 2017 when the Ukrainian Orthodox Church started celebrating Christmas on 25 December. Two Christmases and New Years I moved to the coast of Malaga almost 20 years ago and immediately absorbed the local traditions, starting to celebrate Spanish Navidad on 25 December. Since my relatives in Ukraine celebrated Christmas on 7 January, things just doubled for me. For several years now, Ukraine has officially celebrated Christmas on 25 December. It's not really a new date! All Eastern Orthodox agree that 25 December is the date of Christmas. The question is whether 25 December falls on 25 December or 7 January. As for the change, it always takes time for any new things to really take hold. I know many Ukrainians who will celebrate Christmas here on 7 January, even if some of them will already be celebrating it for the second time. It doesn't seem so strange to us because we still, for more than a hundred years, have been celebrating the so-called Old New Year quite widely," Oleksiy, a Poltava native living in Torremolinos, told SUR in English. Old New Year is an unofficial traditional holiday, which is celebrated as the beginning of the new year according to the Julian calendar. Old New Year is an unofficial traditional holiday (after the Gregorian calendar was officially adopted by the Soviet government after the October Revolution), which is celebrated as the beginning of the new year, but according to the Julian calendar and that's why it falls on 14 January. More celebrated on the Costa Both Russian and Ukrainian diasporas have Orthodox churches on the Costa del Sol. Recently, the number of refugees from both countries has increased. After the Russian invasion began in February 2022, millions of Ukrainian citizens were forced to flee the country. Hundreds of thousands of Russian citizens had to escape Putin's regime and mobilisations. Not surprisingly, after the new wave of immigration (from Georgia as well), more people settled on the Costa del Sol and celebrate Christmas in January. SUR Malaga Tuesday, 7 January 2025, 14:19 Compartir The 'best burger in Europe' can be found at Gottan Grill in Malaga city. The winning burger is named Lil Wayne, in honour of the American rapper. The burger won the grand European final of 'The Champions Burger', a gastronomic event held recently in Barakaldo in Basque Country. The Malaga creation, which also won the national competition 'Champions Burger', convinced even the most demanding palates: It has minced matured steak meat, American 'cheddar' cheese, crispy onion, bacon cooked for 48 hours, Louisiana-style sauce, bacon bits and smoked mayonnaise. It is all tucked into a parmesan brioche bun and mozzarella au gratin. Those attending the event, which took place over several days at the Ansio fairgrounds, tasted 20 burgers and with their votes decided to crown Lil Wayne as the best burger in Europe. Second place went to Malaga restaurant Dak, with its Stellar burger. This burger has 180 grams of matured Galician beef, matured red cheddar, sweet bacon, toasted mayonnaise and onion bits. In third place was the Royale, made by Godeo from Cordoba with black brioche bread with edible gold, Korean mayonnaise, matured beef and veal, cheddar, smoked ribs cooked at a low temperature for 36 hours with bourbon aroma, truffled sour cream, bacon flakes and pickles. Zoom Food influencer Pablo Cabezali, host of the competition, with the winners of the burger chosen as the best in Europe. El Correo Eighteen cities and three and a half million visits The gastronomic event held over the past 11 months went on a tour of 18 cities, with more than 100 gourmet hamburger restaurants participating. The Champions Burger had the collaboration of food influencer Pablo Cabezali, better known as 'Dining with Pablo', who was the host in charge of the event and announcing the winners. This year's competition had more than three and a half million visitors. "We have established ourselves as a benchmark in the food sector of burgers and we are already preparing 2025, raising the creativity of burgers, innovating in ingredients, preparation techniques and presentation, and above all offering a unique culinary and leisure experience," said Nacho Martinez-Medina, CEO of The Champions Burger. Syracuse, N.Y. Around 8 a.m. one April morning, Zionna Lynn woke up and checked her phone. She saw a message that changed her life. A former high school friend had forwarded her a Snapchat story from her ex-boyfriend. It showed the two of them having sex. Syracuse, N.Y. A man was found dead Tuesday morning in the cafeteria of the Academy of Science in Syracuse where there were high levels of carbon monoxide, according to the Syracuse Fire Department. The fire department responded to a call at 7:54 a.m. for a person in cardiac arrest at the school, according to Captain Phillip Vogt, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Fire Department. The charter school is at 1001 Park Ave. Syracuse, N.Y. Jury selection began Monday in Syracuse for a racketeering trial that may be the first of its kind in Onondaga County. Two men are charged under a New York state law similar to the federal RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act) law, which is rarely used in the state. District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, who has been in his position for over thirty years, said he has never prosecuted this charge. Carl Newton Jr., 38, and Synike White, 32, are accused of acting as members of a Syracuse gang called Uptown, prosecutors said in an indictment filed in Onondaga County Court. The case stems from a murder and attempted murder case that was headed for trial in December 2023 but ended in a mistrial after allegations of jury tampering. Instead of retrying the murder case, prosecutors upped the charges to include aggravated enterprise corruption. In the final court appearance before the new trial began, prosecutor Alphonse Williams said the case targets the entire Uptown gang, which is known to center its activities around the Parkside Commons apartment complex on the citys East Side. Newtons attorney, Graeme Spicer, said it is unfair for two men to defend against the actions, or existence, of an entire criminal organization. That argument will likely be the crux of the lengthy trial. The trial is expected to last three weeks and include dozens of witnesses. Newton is accused of acting as a high-ranking member of the Uptown organization, while White is accused of acting as a lesser follower, according to the indictment. The gang is alleged to have a history of narcotics trafficking, possession of illegal firearms and elimination of rival gang members or those who offended the Uptown hierarchy, prosecutors said. Prosecutors will have to prove Newton and White each committed three separate pattern acts within a span of 10 years to advance the goals of the Uptown gang. The charges behind the case A man, Donta Albert, was fatally shot on Allen Street on Syracuse's East Side on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. James McClendon | jmcclendon@syracuse.com The murder and attempted murder charges that were the subject of the original trial are two of the pattern acts or crimes included in the indictment. Just days before the trial one of the nine pattern acts was dismissed by the prosecution. The following are the crimes cited in the original indictment. The attempted murder of Donta Albert during a shooting on Allen Street is the first act listed under the criminal enterprise charge. White was charged alongside Newton for attempted murder after the shooting in the 200 block of Allen Street on July 28, 2021. Newton and White illegally possessed the .45 caliber gun used to shoot Albert on July 28, 2021, prosecutors said. The handgun is described as an Uptown community gun meaning it gets handed off to different people associated with the organization at different times. The murder of Jarrette Johnson, who was shot in the 700 block of North Alvord Street on Aug. 15, 2021, and died less than a month later. White was originally charged with Johnsons murder but a grand jury did not indict him. Under the new indictment, White is once again charged with Johnsons murder along with Newton. The murder is believed to be retribution for Johnson robbing Newtons sister years earlier, prosecutors have said. The illegal possession of the gun used to kill Johnson. Prosecutors said Newton and White saw Johnson driving and followed his car before pulling up beside him and fatally shooting the man with a 9 mm community gun. White is accused of possessing another illegal handgun on Dec. 9, 2021 at the Parkside Commons apartments, which prosecutors described as a known Uptown gang hideout, according to the indictment. In August 2021, White gave police a false statement that he was driving a car involved in a police chase in an attempt to exonerate Kenneth Kinsey , who was allegedly driving the car, prosecutors said. Kinsey was out on bail facing a murder charge. The gun used to shoot Albert was found in the area where the car was first stopped, prosecutors said. White was attempting to cover for Kinsey, who is Newtons cousin, prosecutors said. On Dec. 10, 2023, Newton allegedly attempted to intimidate a witness who had knowledge relating to Uptowns criminal transactions, prosecutors said. Potential witness tampering by Newton, according to the indictment. Prosecutors dropped the eighth pattern act at the final court appearance before the trial. Williams said this came down to trial strategy and cutting down the lengthy witness list. The final allegation used to tie the men to the Uptown gang centers around the allegations of juror tampering that led to the mistrial in December. Fights of disclosure, witness intimidation In the weeks leading up to the trial, multiple legal issues have arisen. The prominent issues began with prosecutors failing to disclose photos related to a gun charge against White. Fitzpatrick told the court it was a violation of discovery laws even though it was an unintentional act. He agreed not to use the photos to avoid any appellate issues regarding the discovery. The discovery in the case has been an ongoing discussion and challenge for both parties. The grand jury testimony alone is close to 700 pages, prosecutors have said. In total, the discovery includes thousands of documents, photos and videos. Patrick Hennessy, Whites attorney, also said on Jan. 2 prosecutors failed to disclose the extent of a cooperation agreement with Tashawn Albert, a witness, for the upcoming trial. Williams argued they did disclose he received a benefit but there was nothing made in writing. Judge Matthew Doran told Williams to create a document detailing the agreement for the defense. Lastly, a video jail call made by White became the subject of two different court appearances. In December, White leaked a list of the prosecutions witness list, which included contact information, over a call. The list was then shared on Facebook with threatening language, prosecutors said. Prosecutors and Doran agree the action may rise to the level of witness intimidation tactics. Hennessy argued White didnt make any threats and he did not violate a court order by releasing the information. Despite Dorans concerns about Whites actions, he will not allow the jail call where White discloses the information to be used in the prosecutions case against the two men. Newton and White both face a maximum 25 to life if convicted of the aggravated enterprise corruption charge. Both men are being held in the Onondaga County Justice Center jail. Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com. NEW DELHI, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indian national capital Delhi's legislative assembly will go to polls on Feb. 5, announced the country's Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar on Tuesday. The counting of votes will take place on Feb. 8, he added. Final results would be expected to be announced by the evening. According to Kumar, a total of over 15.5 million voters will be eligible to cast votes across 70 Assembly constituencies. There will be a total of 13,033 polling booths across the Delhi state. Among the voters, there are nearly 8.35 million male voters and about 7.17 million female voters in Delhi. Elbridge, N.Y. A Syracuse judge will allow a jury to hear 911 calls of an 80-year-old man telling dispatchers he shot his wife because she was bothering him. Sherman Cottrill, of Elbridge, is set to go to trial in March for the June 25, 2023 murder of his wife Donna Cottrill, 60. Cottrill, who was 78 at the time, is accused of shooting his wife in the head inside their home at 5335 Kingston Road in Elbridge. Shortly after, he called 911 and admitted to the shooting, according to Onondaga County 911 Center dispatches. His wife died 11 days after he shot her. He faces a second-degree murder charge On Friday, Judge Gordon Cuffy ruled that the calls would be admissible evidence during the trial. He said the calls qualify as an admission which makes them relevant. Sherman Cottrill told 911 dispatchers he had shot his wife because she was bothering him, according to police dispatches. He also told dispatchers he shot her twice with a rifle but hadnt meant to shoot her the second time, dispatches said. He said his hands were shaking so badly that the gun fired again. Cottrill was not present in court Friday. His attorney, Graeme Spicer, told the court that Cottrill had been admitted to the hospital for respiratory and cardiac issues. He has been out of custody since he posted bail following his initial arraignment on an attempted murder charge before his wife died. When his charges were raised, Cuffy decided to place the man on electronic home confinement. Cottrill is scheduled to appear in court again on Feb. 4 for a final appearance before trial. There is a large police presence in Elbridge after a man called 911 to report that he shot his wife on Sunday, June 25, 2023. (Anne Hayes | Ahayes@syracuse.com) Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com. Syracuse, N.Y. A Syracuse man has admitted he fatally shot another man just days before he was set to head to trial. Alexander Galan, 32, shot Gregory Graves, 39, around on April 16, 2023 in the 400 block of Shonnard Street. Graves later died at Upstate University Hospital. On Monday, the same day Galan was scheduled to start trial, he pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter. In exchange for his guilty plea, he was offered a sentencing range of 15 to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors and Galans defense attorney will have an opportunity to argue for what they believe is the most fair sentence within that range. The judge will make a final ruling at sentencing. Galan was originally charged with second-degree murder and faced 25 years to life in prison if found guilty at trial. He is currently being held in the Onondaga County Justice Center jail on no bail as he awaits sentencing. He is set to be sentenced on Jan. 31. Graves, also known as Dugga, was the second person in his family lost to gun violence. He was a father and a grandfather. Gregory "Dugga" GravesCourtesy *** Gregory Gravess obituary *** Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com. The Erie Canal Museum is commemorating the final year of the Erie Canal Bicentennial in 2025 and has an exciting year of programming on the horizon to explore the last 200 years of Erie Canal history and look towards the next 200 years. Connecting the Hudson River to Lake Erie, the 363-mile-long historic Erie Canal radically transformed the social and economic landscape of New York State. The Erie Canal Museum revealed last month that their guiding theme for 2025 will be titled (Re)volutions. The Erie Canal story is one of both gradual and radical change, and the museums theme will examine both the revolutionary and evolutionary aspects of the Canals past present, and future. The opening of the Erie Canal 200 years ago was in many ways a revolutionary event, says Derrick Pratt, the museums director of education. It shaped our communities, the state, and nation in so many different ways, from opening up trade between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic to helping spark the abolition and womens rights movements plus it lead to a lot of smaller developments that we take for granted or dont hear much about today. Were excited to be highlighting a lot of these transformations this year in our programs, and Im especially excited for our lecture series, which is going to feature some top of the line historians, artists, and community leaders. Author and historian Hugh Ryan will deliver the Erie Canal Museum's first lecture of the Erie Canal Bicentennial (Photo by M. Sharkey)M. Sharkey The Erie Canal Museums 2025 Sloan Lecture Series kicks off on Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. with a virtual talk presented by Brooklyn-based historian and author, Hugh Ryan, titled How the Erie Canal Created Queer Life in Brooklyn. Ryan will discuss how 363 miles of canal turned Brooklyn from a collection of sleepy hamlets out on Long Island into an urban mecca for LGBTQ+ life. All are welcome to participate in this and registration is now open through this link. Registration is free with a suggested donation of $15 and a Zoom link will be provided before the evening of the lecture. In addition to their talks, the museum also planned a series of guided historical bike rides throughout the state, a series of workshops aimed at teaching the community practical canal related skills, and a series of events to welcome the Seneca Chief, a full-sized canal boat replica built in Buffalo, to Syracuse in October. Support for the Erie Canal Museums 2025 Lecture Series is provided by the Winifred and DeVillo Sloan Jr. Charitable Fund. The Erie Canal Museum is located at 318 Erie Blvd E., Syracuse, NY 13210 and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. For more information, call (315) 471-0593. Valerie White is senior executive director of LISC New York, the New York branch of the national Local Initiatives Support Corporation. Matt Josephs is senior vice president for policy at LISC. LISC NY, with offices in New York and Buffalo, is a statewide nonprofit that works to close the racial wealth gap. For too many families across the United States, the dream of homeownership is slipping out of reach (New York wants to build cheaper homes. Theyll test one on a vacant lot in Syracuse, Dec. 5, 2024). While much of the policy focus on housing affordability has centered on increasing the supply of rental units, homeownership opportunities for low- and middle-income families are becoming increasingly rare. The high cost of construction often makes it unprofitable to sell homes at prices these families can afford. A recent pilot project in Syracuse offers a glimpse of what is possible when public investment supports innovative approaches to address this challenge. With assistance from New York state, the Greater Syracuse Land Bank is transforming a vacant lot in the Valley neighborhood into an affordable, energy-efficient home. Built by Champion Homes, a modular housing manufacturer, the project will cost $260,000 to $280,000 to construct but will be sold to a low- to moderate-income buyer for just $130,000 to $150,000. This initiative demonstrates the potential for smart public-private collaboration, but it also highlights the systemic issues that require broader federal policy solutions. Thats where the Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (NHIA) comes in. The NHIA addresses the same challenges the Syracuse project seeks to overcome: the inability to close the gap between what it costs to build or renovate a home and the value of the home. This federal legislation creates a tax credit that bridges this divide, unlocking private capital to fund new homes and substantial renovations in communities that have long been overlooked. This isnt just theory. The NHIA is modeled after the highly successful Low Income Housing Tax Credit, which has built close to 4 million affordable rental units since it was signed into law in 1986. But unlike LIHTC, the NHIA focuses on owner-occupied housing, helping families achieve stability and wealth-building opportunities through homeownership. With bipartisan support from over 120 lawmakers in the House and Senate, the NHIA could transform the housing landscape, enabling the construction or rehabilitation of 500,000 homes over the next decade. These homes would not only serve families earning up to 140% of their areas median income but also lift entire communities by stabilizing property values, attracting investment, and strengthening local economies. The NHIA tackles one of the most entrenched barriers to community revitalization: distressed neighborhoods where housing stock is too deteriorated to attract buyers, and where the absence of new development suppresses property values. By filling this gap, the NHIA turns vacant lots and dilapidated properties into opportunities for affordable, quality homes. Consider the Syracuse project. Without New Yorks program support, the $150,000 difference between the homes construction cost and its sale price would leave the property undeveloped, perpetuating blight in the neighborhood. Through tax credits, the NHIA closes that gap while also ensuring local governments benefit from increased economic activity. Families have stable homes, and communities see renewed vitality. Critically, the NHIA aligns with fiscal responsibility. Tax credits are only claimed after homes are completed, inspected and occupied. This pay-for-success approach ensures accountability and minimizes risk, making it an attractive policy for private investors and public stakeholders alike. The housing crisis is especially acute in New York. In New York City, the median price per square foot stands at an astonishing $1,519 20 times higher than cities like Cleveland or Detroit. Meanwhile, cities like Syracuse face the opposite challenge: Construction costs exceed what buyers can afford, perpetuating disinvestment. Accordingly, New York states decision to invest in closing the affordability gap for single-family homes is a step in the right direction. At the Local Initiatives Support Coalition (LISC), we have facilitated the financing of 2,788 affordable single-family homes since 2022, turning $154.5 million in investment into $757 million in total development activity. This level of support for affordable housing demonstrates how strategic public-private partnerships can catalyze transformational change, proving that targeted investment is not only possible but also highly effective. Congress will be seeking to enact a significant tax bill in 2025. NHIA needs to be included in this legislation, so that communities have the necessary tools to close the value gap, stabilize neighborhoods, and ensure every family has the chance to achieve the American Dream. Hyde Park, N.Y. A hiker walking outside a historic mansion in Upstate New York last made a grim discovery: a body. The hiker found the remains of a woman lying facedown near the east shore of the Hudson River south of Bard Rock, a popular spot on the Vanderbilt Mansion Historic Site in the Hudson Valley, the New York State Police said in a news release. Troopers called her death suspicious. The womans body was found around noon on Dec. 6 on the famous Hyde Park property. After a month, she has been identified. The woman found dead outside the Vanderbilt Mansion has been positively identified as Helen Pardini, troopers announced Monday. Pardini was 69 years old and lived in Poughkeepsie, troopers said. Investigators did not specify how she died or if her cause of death has been determined. Poughkeepsie is about 7 miles south of the Vanderbilt Mansion. The State Police would like to acknowledge and thank the members of the public who reached out with information regarding this case, troopers said. Pardinis death remains under investigation. After her body was found, troopers asked the public to reach out about missing elderly women in the Hyde Park area. A few days later, troopers released a description of Pardini describing her, in part, as a white woman with brown eyes, gray hair and no scars or tattoos. The Town of Hyde Park Police Department also asked the public for help. We are asking residents to please check on their neighbors or if you are concerned about someone please call in a welfare check, the department said in a Facebook post. As with any investigation, this is ongoing and we ask residents to not speculate. The Vanderbilt Mansion was a vacation home for Frederick Vanderbilt and his famous family. The mansion and sprawling property along the Hudson River are now part of the National Park Service and open to the public. The new border czar for President Donald Trumps incoming administration wants to change or revoke a controversial New York law that allows undocumented migrants to get drivers licenses. Tom Homan, an Upstate New York native who previously served as Trumps acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director, will oversee the southern and northern borders when Trump takes office later this month. Hell also be responsible for deportation efforts, a key part of Trumps agenda, prompting Homan to target the Empire states Green Light law. The law, which passed in 2019 under then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo as the Drivers License Access and Privacy Act, allows people to get a drivers license regardless of citizenship or lawful status in the United States. It is not valid for federal identification purposes, but it also bars ICE from obtaining NYS motor vehicle records out of fear the federal agency would use it to track down immigrants who entered the country illegally. Homan told the Buffalo News that the law puts federal investigators and the public in danger. It absolutely has to change, he said. Without access to DMV information, were unable to get full information on drivers and vehicles with New York plates that are entering this country. That cannot be allowed to continue. We need to be sharing information with local law enforcement to keep our borders safe, Homan told the Buffalo newspaper. To me, this is a high priority. I grew up in New York State, I still own a home in the state. What happens in New York means a lot to me. Homan did not provide details for when or how he might seek to change the law. The Buffalo News reports Homeland Security officials are considering blocking cars and trucks with New York license plates from entering the U.S. from Canada until the state begins sharing DMV information. Homan did not rule out the possibility. Gov. Kathy Hochuls office told the publication that she is committed to public safety, and is committed to secure borders and safe streets. The governors office also noted that New York has the power to communicate with federal immigration authorities when a crime has been committed. Republican lawmakers in Northern New York sought to repeal the Green Light law in counties that border Canada last year. Licensing would be restricted in Clinton, Franklin, St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Niagara, Erie and Orleans counties, and state agencies could share information with federal agencies while the law would remain intact in the rest of the state. New York State Attorney General Letitia James previously spoke in defense of the Green Light law after three federal courts dismissed challenges to it in 2020. James said that it makes roads safer and helps grow the economy by allowing immigrants to become legal drivers in New York. Homan, a former police officer in his North Country hometown of West Carthage, N.Y., worked as a Border Patrol agent before heading the ICE in 2017 and 2018. Hes already met with New York City Mayor Eric Adams about efforts to pursue violent criminals in NYC, and said hes begun talks with other countries to provide refuge for displaced migrants whose home nations wont take them back. Everything changes on January 20, Homan said at a Young Republicans event in Florida. SYDNEY, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Eight people, including six children, have been hospitalized after a van rolled on a major highway between Sydney and Canberra on Tuesday. Emergency services in the state of New South Wales (NSW) were called to the Hume Highway near the town of Marulan, about 140 km southwest of Sydney and 100 km northeast of Canberra, after the vehicle rolled at about midday local time. NSW Police said in a statement that eight occupants, including the driver, were trapped in the vehicle for a short time before being freed by civilians. Three NSW Ambulance helicopters were deployed to the scene where two adults and six children were treated for injuries. NSW Ambulance Acting Duty Operations Manager Ian Pollard told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that the two adults were flown to hospital in a critical condition. He said that the six children were also hospitalized, with three seriously injured. A crime scene has been established and detectives have commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Bottom line: Security experts are continuing to to raise alarms regarding Windows 10's impending end-of-life status this October. Despite Microsoft's best efforts, only about 30% of its users have upgraded to Windows 11 since its launch in 2021. The remaining majority face difficult choices, as continuing to receive official security updates will come at a cost, and many Windows 10 devices don't meet Windows 11's stringent hardware requirements. Thorsten Urbanski, a security expert at ESET, warns that the end of support for Windows 10 could put most Windows devices at risk. Without free official security updates, millions of business and personal systems could become highly vulnerable to cyberattacks and other security threats. As Windows 10 approaches its 10th anniversary, it remains the most widely used Windows operating system by far. ESET estimates that approximately 65% of devices in Germany around 32 million are still running Windows 10. Global data from StatCounter paints a similar picture, with Windows 10 accounting for 62% of Windows devices as of December 2024. In contrast, Windows 11 has only crawled up to 34% since its debut in 2021. Surprisingly, Windows 10 has even gained user share in recent months. While Windows 11 is slightly more popular among gamers, the latest Steam survey reveals that 42% of players continue to use Windows 10. ESET warns that the end of official Windows 10 support could lead to more than just security issues. Businesses and individuals may also face software and hardware compatibility challenges. Organizations that fail to upgrade in time risk breaching cybersecurity regulations, compounding the problem. Windows 11's relatively strict hardware requirements are a primary reason behind its low adoption rate. Microsoft has made it clear it has no plans to relax these standards. The company recently reaffirmed that all Windows 11 devices must include TPM 2.0 security, potentially excluding millions of systems with older processors. Even those eligible for Windows 11 have recently encountered problems when clicking on Microsoft's update prompts. Industry analysts predict that the October deadline could drive a surge in PC sales, as businesses and individuals purchase devices pre-installed with Windows 11. For those unwilling or unable to upgrade immediately, there are other options to maintain security. Businesses can purchase Extended Security Updates for $61 per device for the first year, but the cost will double each subsequent year. Individual users have the option to pay $30 for critical updates for one additional year. Meanwhile, third-party provider 0patch has pledged to offer unofficial security patches for Windows 10 through 2030. The company has a proven track record, as it continues to release updates for Windows 7, suggesting it is likely to follow through with its plans for Windows 10. Highly anticipated: Nvidia has finally unveiled the new GeForce 50 series, along with DLSS 4 technology. Four high-end GPUs were announced, and it won't be long until you can get your hands on one. The RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 are set to launch first on January 30, followed by the RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti in February. Now, it's time to share our thoughts on what was revealed during the CES 2025 keynote including all the specs, pricing, and performance claims. The new GPUs The new RTX 5090 flagship comes packing significantly more hardware over its predecessor. Not only does this GPU use Nvidia's new Blackwell architecture, but it also packs significantly more CUDA cores, greater memory bandwidth, and a higher VRAM capacity. The SM count has increased from 128 with the RTX 4090 to a whopping 170 with the RTX 5090 a 33% increase in the core size. However, GPU boost clocks have decreased slightly, from 2.5 GHz to 2.4 GHz. The memory subsystem is overhauled, now featuring GDDR7 technology on a massive 512-bit bus. With this GDDR7 memory clocked at 28 Gbps, memory bandwidth reaches 1,792 GB/s a near 80% increase over the RTX 4090's bandwidth. It also includes 32GB of VRAM, the most Nvidia has ever provided on a consumer GPU. With Blackwell still built using TSMC 4nm technology, the board power rating has risen to accommodate these cores and memory, increasing to a mammoth 575W 28% higher than the RTX 4090. The RTX 5080 uses a much smaller GPU configuration, based on an entirely different GPU die, with just 84 SMs four more than the RTX 4080 Super from the last generation. Almost everything about this model is half of the RTX 5090: just under half the CUDA cores, half the memory bus width at 256-bit, half the VRAM capacity at 16GB, and a little over half the memory bandwidth at 960 GB/s through the use of GDDR7 clocked at 30 Gbps. Historically, this configuration would align with an RTX 5070-tier GPU, so positioning it as a 5080 feels like a disappointing move for gamers. The RTX 5070 Ti is further cut down, featuring 70 SMs four more than the previous generation's RTX 4070 Ti Super. However, boost clocks have dropped from 2.61 GHz to 2.45 GHz. The memory bus width remains the same as the RTX 5080's 256-bit configuration, meaning it also has 16GB of GDDR7 memory. This time, the memory is clocked at 28 Gbps, resulting in 896 GB/s of bandwidth. The 5070 Ti is rated at 300W, while the RTX 5080 is rated at 360W. Then there's the RTX 5070. This model features 48 SMs, just two more than the RTX 4070 from the previous generation. It includes a 192-bit memory bus and 12GB of VRAM, which feels insufficient for this tier of product. Boost clocks are only slightly higher than the RTX 4070, increasing from 2.48 GHz to 2.51 GHz, with a total power rating of 250W. All new GeForce 50 series GPUs include updated connectivity, such as PCIe 5.0 x16 for the announced models and DisplayPort 2.1b UHBR20, which introduces support for active cables. Additionally, they feature HDMI 2.1 and a single 16-pin power connector on each model. GPU performance and pricing Now let's dive into the most important aspects of Blackwell. There's both good and bad here. The GeForce RTX 5090 is outrageously expensive, as expected, priced at $2,000. Meanwhile, the RTX 5080, with half the GPU hardware, is priced at $1,000 less extreme than many rumors suggested, though still quite expensive. The surprises for us were the RTX 5070 Ti at $750 and the RTX 5070 at $550 both $50 lower than their counterparts from the previous generation at launch. As for the performance claims... Nvidia has as usual used its marketing to obscure actual gaming performance. RTX 50 GPUs support DLSS 4 multi-frame generation, which previous-generation GPUs lack. This means RTX 50 series GPUs can generate double the frames of previous-gen models in DLSS-supported games, making them appear up to twice as "fast" as RTX 40 series GPUs. But in reality, while FPS numbers will increase with DLSS 4, latency and gameplay feel may not improve as dramatically. The claim that the RTX 5070 matches the RTX 4090 in performance seems dubious. Perhaps it could match in frame rate with DLSS 4, but certainly not in raw, non-DLSS performance. In their charts, Nvidia highlighted four games and apps supporting DLSS 4: Cyberpunk 2077, Alan Wake 2, Black Myth Wukong, and D5 Render. However, we'll set those aside for now since we lack proper performance data for those titles. The performance claims for the other games matter more. The claim that the RTX 5070 matches the RTX 4090 in performance seems dubious. Perhaps it could match in frame rate with DLSS 4, but certainly not in raw, non-DLSS performance. Based on Nvidia's charts, the RTX 5070 seems 20 30% faster than the RTX 4070 at 1440p. This would place the RTX 5070 slightly ahead of the RTX 4070 Super for about $50 less, or alternatively, 20 30% faster than the RTX 4070 for the same price. Depending on how it performs relative to the RTX 4070 Super, this could offer reasonable, though slightly underwhelming, value. A 10% performance improvement over the 4070 Super and a 9% price cut would result in roughly a 20% improvement in cost per frame. Nvidia made similar claims for the RTX 5070 Ti, estimating a 20 30% performance improvement over the 4070 Ti at 1440p (ignoring the misleading DLSS 4 numbers). This would result in an even better cost-per-frame improvement compared to the RTX 4070 Ti, likely exceeding 30%, though it will shrink closer to 20% relative to the 4070 Ti Super. The RTX 5080 shows a similar story: a 20 30% performance improvement over the RTX 4080. Given the RTX 4080 Super was only about 5% faster than the RTX 4080, this results in a roughly 20% increase in cost-per-frame efficiency. As for the RTX 5090, the non-DLSS 4 numbers indicate a 20 40% performance gain over the RTX 4090. However, since the RTX 5090 is priced 25% higher, most games would need to achieve closer to a 50% gain to yield a 20% improvement in cost-per-frame. Nvidia's testing was conducted at 4K using DLSS Performance mode, which essentially renders at 1080p. This could lead to CPU bottlenecks and underutilization of the massive RTX 5090. We suspect that could explain the stronger performance gains in path-traced DLSS 4 games compared to traditional titles. Of course, we'll have to wait for reviews to see how that plays out. Our gut feeling here and initial reaction is that Nvidia seems to be delivering around a 20% cost-per-frame improvement, and therefore a 20% value increase, across the board when comparing to RTX 40 Super GPUs. That is certainly better than the RTX 40 series, which in many situations offered absolutely nothing for gamers in terms of value. Hopefully, this apparent 20% value increase is more like 30% in reality, in which case this looks like a good generation. If the cards fall closer to 20% or, worse, lower, it will be a disappointment. But so far, there is enough to get at least a little bit excited about. A growing gap, plus other architectural improvements One of our concerns with this generation is the absolute chasm Nvidia has created between the highest-tier model and the next model down. It's pretty absurd that the RTX 5090 is basically double the hardware of the RTX 5080. It's almost like we're back in the days of dual GPUs, except this time it's a massive single GPU die. This makes the RTX 5080 feel like quite a weak product in comparison, even though there is a substantial price difference to account for that. Gone are the days of the 80 class being just a small reduction in capabilities relative to the best model. That gap is only growing, ensuring that gamers are forced to pay a ludicrous amount of money to access performance that's materially better than the best of the 40 series. This has flow-on effects for the rest of the product stack, which also becomes comparatively weak relative to the best GPU. However, there's at least some good news here because, in the previous generation, the RTX 4080 had 26% more CUDA cores than the RTX 4070 Ti. In this generation, the RTX 5080 has 20% more CUDA cores than the RTX 5070 Ti, as well as much closer memory specifications. So, the 5070 Ti isn't cut down as much relative to the 5080 when compared to what Nvidia did at the RTX 40 series launch. Nvidia's Blackwell architecture is an iteration on previous architectures, improving various aspects that existed before, like ray tracing units and Tensor cores. Jensen dedicated a ton of time to talk exclusively about AI we won't bore you with that but basically, Blackwell is powerful for AI in addition to regular processing. Shocker, right? A new Nvidia GPU is being advertised as the best for AI yet. The architecture has a tighter integration with the Tensor cores inside the SM, improved shader execution reordering (which is twice as efficient), RT cores with twice the ray-triangle intersection rate, and enhanced compression to reduce memory footprint. Nvidia claims this will allow for more geometry while ray tracing. Blackwell also improves video encoding and decoding with a new generation of the hardware engine. This is the first time we are seeing a video decoding engine improvement since the RTX 20 to 30 series upgrade. The new display engine also allows for new multi-monitor configurations: up to four 4K 165Hz monitors without DSC, or two 4K 360Hz monitors with DSC. Two 8K 100Hz monitors with DSC are also possible. Nvidia is releasing Founders Editions for all models except the RTX 5070 Ti. This FE model looks similar to the RTX 4090 FE cards, except now both fans are on the same side. Amazingly, Nvidia is using just a two-slot design for the 5090 despite the card being rated for 575W. The RTX 5080 appears to use a very similar Founders Edition design, while the RTX 5070 uses a scaled-down model that isn't as long: 242mm long instead of 304mm long, according to Nvidia's specs. DLSS 4 next-gen upscaling tech Nvidia also announced DLSS 4, the next generation of their upscaling technology. The headlining feature here is frame generation to generate 3 frames for every 1 real frame, instead of generating 1 frame for every 1 real frame. There are significant question marks here over latency and image quality. When generating every second frame, 50% of the time you are seeing a real frame. When generating 3 frames, only 25% of the time you are seeing a real frame. So, those generated frames had better be amazing quality; otherwise, you will see a ton of artifacts a lot of the time something that will be an issue unless the quality of generated frames is significantly overhauled relative to DLSS 3. The other issue is using multi-frame rendering to hack our way to high-frame-rate gaming. Nvidia showed a demo where, without DLSS 4, a game was running at 30 FPS, but then over 240 FPS with DLSS 4 enabled. Now, of course, not even DLSS upscaling was enabled in the 30 FPS example, but we really don't want to see any situations where generating 3 frames is used to get a 30 FPS game up to 120 FPS that would be absolutely horrific in terms of input latency. DLSS 4 is exclusive to Blackwell GPUs, but only for the Multi-Frame Rendering component. DLSS 4 also features enhancements to regular frame generation, super resolution, and ray reconstruction, with the same support for those features as we currently have. The restriction on multi-frame rendering is due to what Nvidia calls "enhanced hardware flip metering capabilities" in the Blackwell architecture. Nvidia says this is required for a smooth experience, which we hope is true; otherwise, RTX 40 series owners are getting screwed. The quality enhancements to upscaling and other aspects of DLSS 4 are significant, according to Nvidia, thanks to the use of transformers. Nvidia claims this will "improve image quality with improved temporal stability, less ghosting, and higher detail in motion." Honestly, we're more interested in the upscaling quality improvements in DLSS 4 than multi-frame rendering. Nvidia also says the new frame generation model is 40% faster and uses 30% less VRAM. That sounds pretty exciting to us, and honestly, we're more interested in the upscaling quality improvements in DLSS 4 than multi-frame rendering. Nvidia also says the new frame generation model is 40% faster and uses 30% less VRAM. For generating multiple frames, the AI algorithm only needs to run once per rendered frame. Optical flow is replaced with an efficient hardware model, which raises questions as to why frame generation is still exclusive to the 40 series, given it was hardware restricted due to optical flow accelerators in Ada Lovelace. What's not clear is whether the new transformer model for DLSS has a performance impact and if this performance impact is the same for all GPUs. For example, they claim frame generation is now faster, but is that on both RTX 50 and RTX 40 GPUs? Is there a performance impact from using the transformer model for upscaling? Many questions to be answered in testing. Nvidia's gaming software moat The fact that 75 games and apps are coming at launch with DLSS 4 support is quite impressive, showing Nvidia has learned that widespread game support is needed to make features worthwhile. We don't know if this means there will be significant game updates at launch for all these titles or whether Nvidia has found some way to automatically add DLSS 4 to these games. But after a quick look through the list, it isn't every DLSS 3 game, and some games are only adding DLSS 4 support later. This suggests a widespread effort to implement the feature. In addition, Nvidia is building an override feature into the Nvidia app, which will act like a DLL swap, allowing upgrades (or overrides, as they call them) to the latest DLSS models for frame generation, super resolution, and ray reconstruction. It will also allow frame generation to turn into multi-frame generation for 50-series owners. Nvidia has announced Reflex 2, which essentially brings frame warp from VR gaming to regular PC gaming for the first time. The idea here is that instead of showing the rendered frame based on old input, Reflex 2 will take a more recent input sample, perform calculations on the CPU, and warp/shift the rendered frame based on that input. In a sense, this "fakes" a frame update and applies it to the rendered frame, reducing perceived latency for actions that shift the camera because real input is being taken into account to warp the frame by the correct amount. It will not reduce latency for game actions like firing your gun, for example, because that cannot be warped. It's a cool concept, but it remains to be seen how it actually works in games. Will it feel nice to play a game with Reflex 2 enabled, or will it feel a bit floaty and weird if the warp calculations aren't accurate? It's hard to say at this point, although it's good to see Nvidia claiming gains for both CPU- and GPU-limited scenarios. There's also the question of image quality, and while Nvidia claims they are using inpainting to solve issues with gaps in the warped render, every single frame is affected by this warp. So, if the quality of the warp is bad, this will make the entire game look bad all the time. Reflex 2 is first coming to The Finals and Valorant soon, with support for RTX 50-series GPUs initially and other RTX GPUs later. So, it doesn't sound like this will be something restricted to new Blackwell models. However, it's important to note here that frame warp in Reflex 2 will not solve latency issues with DLSS frame generation, especially multi-frame generation, because there is no indication it will be integrated into games that support DLSS 4 multi- or single-frame generation. It might not even work together, for all we know. Blackwell also supports RTX Neural Shaders and RTX Neural Faces, though we're not sure how soon we'll actually be seeing those in games, so it seems more like a future-looking feature for now. Nvidia claims that RTX Neural Shaders can be used to compress textures by up to 7x, saving memory, which is perhaps why they're still being stingy with VRAM this generation. But of course, this feature is absolutely useless in games that don't use it, so this isn't an actual excuse for the low VRAM amounts on the RTX 5070 in particular. That's everything Nvidia has announced at CES 2025 for PC gamers. The new line-up of GeForce RTX 50-series graphics cards looks reasonable at first glance, but it certainly didn't blow us away. Performance gains look reasonable once you strip out all the BS marketing about new features, the value increase looks modest to okay, and the hardware itself is impressive. The exception to this would be the RTX 5070, which has just 12GB of VRAM at $550 too low for that class of graphics card in 2025, even though Nvidia is claiming reduced memory usage through new features. Some games already show that 12GB is insufficient even without DLSS applied, and since most of the VRAM savings come through DLSS 4 model updates, if the base game still doesn't work with 12GB of VRAM, it doesn't matter if frame generation is a little more memory efficient. It's always positive to see that pricing isn't ridiculous or outrageous. This doesn't appear to be a repeat of the RTX 40 series, where gamers were treated to little to no increase in value and shockingly high prices for some models. Of course, we still need to see healthy performance gains from those models to get the required value increase. DLSS 4 sounds good on paper, and we're looking forward to see those claims about improving the quality of upscaling. The ability to upgrade the DLSS model in existing games through an Nvidia app feature is also neat as many gamers were performing manual DLL swaps. As for multi-frame generation, we're not sold on that feature yet given the implications for image quality and latency... especially if it's used as a crutch to allow for native rendering at even lower frame rates. And we absolutely hate how we're now in a situation where Nvidia can just claim ridiculous performance gains by generating more and more frames. Rest assured we'll investigate this further when we have the GPUs on hand and get to testing. What just happened? Tencent, the tech giant that has investments and ownership stakes in firms ranging from Riot and Epic to Activision Blizzard and Reddit, has been added to the Department of Defense's list of Chinese military companies. The move will not result in any immediate sanctions or export controls, but it has caused reputational damage and could make it more difficult for Tencent to continue making investments in American businesses. Tencent appeared on an updated version of the Section 1260H list this week. The DoD's list contains the names of companies that the agency believes are part of China's "Military-Civil Fusion strategy," a national strategy of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to develop the People's Liberation Army (PLA) into a "world class military" by 2049 by collaborating with local firms and civilian researchers. Tencent is the sole owner of League of Legends maker Riot Games, is a minority shareholder of Epic Games with approximately 29% of fully diluted shares, has stakes in Snap and Activision Blizzard, Larian Studios, and FromSoftware, and has invested in Reddit and Discord. No reason was given for why Tencent was added to the list. The company said its inclusion was "clearly a mistake" and it will appeal. Tencent's Danny Marti told The Verge that the designation "has no impact on our business." "We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defense to address any misunderstanding," Marti added. Consequences of being on the 1260H list aren't as severe as being on the Entity list, which includes Huawei, as those on it cannot do business with US companies unless Washington issues a license. However, some organizations chose to stop working with companies after they were added to the 1260H list. Tencent owns WeChat, the messaging platform and payment service that's incredibly popular in China. WeChat was banned from Canada's government devices in 2023 due to an "unacceptable level of risk to privacy and security." Joining Tencent on the 1260H list is CATL, the world's largest electric vehicle battery maker whose customers include Tesla. CATL also said its inclusion was "a mistake." Ford said it would invest $2 billion to build a battery plant in Michigan. The US automaker has said it plans to license technology from CATL. Tencent's US-listed shares fell 7.8% following the news. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, told the BBC, "The US's practices violate the market competition principles and international economic and trade rules that it has always advocated, and undermine the confidence of foreign companies in investing and operating in the United States." Drone maker DJI and Lidar-maker Hesai Technologies both sued the Pentagon last year for their inclusion on the list, where they still remain. There may still be hope for Tencent and CATL. Xiaomi was added to the list in 2021 but removed just a few months later. Facepalm: Do you know what 2025 is? It's the "Year of the Windows 11 PC refresh," at least according to Microsoft. With Windows 10's end-of-support date around nine months away, the Redmond firm is going all out to try and convince people to move to Windows 11, preferably by purchasing a Copilot+ PC. Now that Microsoft's "year of the AI PC," or 2024, as it's better known is over, the company has declared that 2025 really should be the year that you upgrade your Windows 10 PC to a Windows 11-supporting computer. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's Executive Vice President and consumer chief marketing officer, writes that one of the most important pieces of technology consumers will look to refresh in 2025 isn't the refrigerator, the television, or their mobile phone; it will be their Windows 10 PC. It's hard to imagine many people with 20-year-old refrigerators agreeing with him on that one. Mehdi makes some other bold statements, including "Windows 11 is available at a time when the world needs it most" and that "the forefront of AI innovation will be realized on Windows." Mehdi heavily pushes Microsoft's AI offerings in the lengthy post, mentioning Copilot no less than 14 times. Copilot has made several headlines at CES after it was revealed the AI assistant has been integrated into upcoming TVs from LG and Samsung. We'll have to wait and see just how useful this feature proves to be. Microsoft would obviously prefer those upgrading their PCs to opt for a Copilot+ one. Mehdi writes that these are up to five times faster than the most popular 5-year-old Windows PCs still in use today and top models are up to 58% faster than a MacBook Air with M3. Microsoft's campaign to push people onto Windows 11 hasn't been a rousing success. Most Windows 10 users hate the intrusive, full-screen pop-up nags, made worse by the most recent version that sometimes crashes when it opens. Windows 10 reaches its end-of-support date on October 14, meaning no more security updates after this point unless you pay for them. Nevertheless, Windows 10's global user share increased to 62.7% over the last two months as Windows 11's fell to 34.1% though more Steam survey participants seem to prefer the newer OS. Citing IDC data, Mehdi writes that nearly 80% of businesses are planning to refresh their PC portfolio by the end of 2025, and 70% of consumers will refresh their PCs in the next two years. In related news, security experts warn that the end of support for Windows 10 could put most Windows devices at risk, not to mention the software and hardware compatibility issues. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Tuesday held talks via video links with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, with both sides agreeing to maintain communication, manage differences and continue to stabilize China-U.S. economic relations during the transition period. TrustInSoft is redefining software development by leveraging the power of formal methods to ensure bug-free code with mathematical certainty. By equipping developers with cutting-edge tools, the company enables the creation of safer and more reliable software applications across various industries. At the helm of this groundbreaking mission is Caroline Guillaume, TrustInSoft's CEO. A visionary leader with a blend of technical expertise and strategic insight, Caroline has been instrumental in shaping the company's innovation-driven approach. In this exclusive interview, we explore TrustInSoft's evolutionfrom its foundational vision to its current technological achievementsand gain insights into its unique culture and future aspirations. The Humble Beginnings TrustInSoft's journey began with a vision to revolutionize software safety and reliability. Focused on eliminating software vulnerabilities, the company pioneered the use of exhaustive static analysis to validate code with unmatched precision. Founded within the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), TrustInSoft's roots in rigorous scientific research continue to shape its mission and drive its commitment to excellence. What Sets TrustInSoft Apart TrustInSoft sets a new standard in the software industry, offering precision and reliability through its innovative use of formal methods and advanced static analysis. By leveraging mathematical techniques, the company delivers software safety with guaranteed results, ensuring unmatched quality in critical industries. "Unlike many competitors, we emphasize mathematical guarantees of code safety, delivering assurance that all potential bugs and vulnerabilities have been eliminated. TrustInSoft also provides a unique combination of static analysis and formal proof capabilities, extending its utility for industries requiring high-certication standards like ISO 26262 for automotive systems, " Caroline said. She emphasizes the key factors that make TrustInSoft unique: Mathematical Software Safety : Providing mathematically proven guarantees of software safety through formal methods. : Providing mathematically proven guarantees of software safety through formal methods. Sound and Exhaustive Static Analysis : Detecting memory safety issues by detecting undefined behaviors in C/C++ code with exceptional thoroughness. : Detecting memory safety issues by detecting undefined behaviors in C/C++ code with exceptional thoroughness. Formal Verification Capabilities : Integrating static analysis, formal verification with value analysis and formal proof to achieve precise and trustworthy outcomes. : Integrating static analysis, formal verification with value analysis and formal proof to achieve precise and trustworthy outcomes. Customer-Centric Development : Continuously refining products based on client feedback. : Continuously refining products based on client feedback. Advanced Techniques: Employing innovative approaches like abstract interpretation for superior accuracy and reliability. Upholding Quality Standards Through Company Culture and Core Values TrustInSoft is dedicated to maintaining the highest quality standards, with a focus on safety-critical sectors where precision and reliability are paramount. According to CEO Caroline Guillaume, the company achieves both compliance and efficiency by adhering to stringent certifications and implementing innovative workflows. ISO 26262 : TrustInSoft ensures compliance with this automotive safety standard, reducing the risks of costly recalls through rigorous testing and verification. : TrustInSoft ensures compliance with this automotive safety standard, reducing the risks of costly recalls through rigorous testing and verification. DO-178C : For aerospace systems, the TrustInSoft Analyzer provides mathematical proof of software safety, supporting compliance with this vital certification. : For aerospace systems, the TrustInSoft Analyzer provides mathematical proof of software safety, supporting compliance with this vital certification. Cybersecurity Standards : Addressing vulnerabilities like buffer overflows, TrustInSoft aligns with top industry practices and the CWE Top 25, making it indispensable for IoT and telecommunications. : Addressing vulnerabilities like buffer overflows, TrustInSoft aligns with top industry practices and the CWE Top 25, making it indispensable for IoT and telecommunications. Embedded Software: The Analyzer ensures exhaustive code analysis for embedded systems, enhancing safety, security, and development efficiency. TrustInSoft fosters an inclusive and growth-oriented environment driven by its PhD-level R&D team and startup-like agility. This dynamic culture enables the company to stay ahead of customer needs, reflected in its flagship product, TrustInSoft Analyzer - a tool embodying the values of safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Leading with Passion and Balance: The Key to Achieving Our Vision Leading a growing company comes with its own set of challenges, requiring both leaders and employees to embody values that reflect the organization's mission. At TrustInSoft, our mission to "transform software development and empower developers to deliver zero-bug software" is not just a goal but the core of our identity. Achieving this vision requires everyone - from top leadership to every team memberto share a deep passion for our purpose and a commitment to driving it forward. Growth and innovation demand a delicate balance between two seemingly contradictory qualities, which together fuel sustainable success. "Be conscious and condent in our excellence and our unique expertise and capabilities and being disciplined, having the willingness of consistently using them," Caroline said. "At the same time, be humble and continuously listen to our customers, our colleagues, the market reality, to question ourselves on what to do rst and how to do it better," she added. By cultivating these qualities, TrustInSoft stays true to its mission while seamlessly adapting to the evolving demands of the software industry. Passion, discipline, and humility are more than guiding principles - they are the bedrock of our commitment to delivering zero-bug software. How TrustInSoft and Its Flagship Analyzer Deliver Unmatched Value TrustInSoft combines strategic focus with innovative tools to provide unparalleled value to its clients. By excelling in its core strengths and staying agile in response to customer feedback and shifting market demands, the company ensures its solutions address immediate needs while driving long-term return on investment. At the heart of this approach lies TrustInSoft's flagship product, the TrustInSoft Analyzer. With features like mathematical guarantees of software safety and robust compliance support for critical industries, the Analyzer has become an essential tool for organizations aiming for excellence. Seamlessly integrating into workflows, it helps clients save time, cut costs, improve reusability, and deliver zero-bug software with confidence. This commitment to innovation and reliability underscores TrustInSoft's dedication to customer satisfaction and industry leadership. Looking Ahead and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs TrustInSoft's vision for the future centers on expanding formal methods to support additional programming languages and forging stronger partnerships to enhance tool integration. CEO Caroline Guillaume highlights the pivotal role of employee curiosity and expertise in driving the company's innovation forward. By continuously exploring new opportunities and advancing software safety, TrustInSoft is committed to maintaining its position as an industry leader. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Caroline offers simple yet valuable advice: "Be passionate about what you do." When asked what her advice to businesses to consistently improve ROI, she said: "Be conscious and condent in our excellence and our unique expertise and capabilities and being disciplined, having the willingness to consistently use them. Be humble and continuously listen to our customers, our colleagues, the market reality, to question ourselves on what to do rst and how to do it better." Conclusion Caroline reaffirms the company's mission to empower developers with tools that deliver zero-bug software confidently. With its cutting-edge solutions and a forward-thinking culture, TrustInSoft is set to shape the future of software development. For developers looking to elevate their processes, the TrustInSoft Analyzer offers a transformative path to achieving unparalleled software safety and reliability. Humetrix will present an AI voice technology that will make communication between global travelers and healthcare providers easier at CES 2025. The sheer magnitude of people gathering at a global event from every corner of the globe brings health management to its highest complexity ever. From the language barrier to the intricacies of medical systems, it can be a pretty challenging task to ensure that each person gets the proper care they need. The Complexities of Healthcare at Large-Scale Global Events The challenge was taken head-on and solved with cutting-edge technology from the Silicon Valley-based company that specializes in global health communication at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Organizing healthcare for over 10 million visitors and 15,000 athletes from more than 150 countries who speak 25 different languages is no small matter. According to CNET, the organizers knew they needed an efficient method to address issues in a wide variety of health concernsfrom translation of foreign languages into medical terminology to cross-referencing medicines of different countries for safe use. Humetrix, led by Dr. Bettina Experton, leaps in with an innovative solution designed to meet those needs. Humetrix Bridges Language Gaps in Global Healthcare Humetrix had already proven its capacity to manage global health data, having collaborated with the U.S. government in monitoring and forecasting outbreaks during the 2020 pandemic. For the Paris Olympics, the company designed a mobile app based on generative AI. The app enabled international visitors to seek medical care at the 200 competition venues spread across Paris and at more than 20,000 contracted physicians and hospitals. Using the application, patients would be able to scan a QR code, enter their medical history in their mother tongue, and even select the medications they are on from a global list. The system translated the information into medical terminology doctors could understand and use to rapidly and efficiently evaluate conditions. Massive Database: 4 Million Medications and 67,000 Medical Conditions One of the key features of Humetrix's app was its access to a comprehensive database of 4 million medications and vaccines from around the world. The system also offered data on 67,000 medical conditions that could arise from over 4,000 symptoms. This extensive data set was available in 25 languages, including English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and more. The system ensured that patients from all over the world could receive the right treatmentno matter where they were from or what language they spokeby allowing doctors to instantly access this information. Prioritizing Data Security and Privacy With such massive health data going through the systems, privacy has become a major concern. Humetrix made sure no personally identifiable information was stored on the cloud; instead, it kept all its data securely locked within the phone of the user. The firm also said no health information would be shared with any monitoring systems or other entities in strict confidentiality protocols. The Future of Health Tech: Voice-to-Voice Communication Humetrix at CES 2025 pushed it a notch higher by unveiling voice-to-voice capability. It enables patients to communicate directly with healthcare providers through voice, where the system interprets symptoms, medications, and medical history in real time. This will, therefore, avoid written communication and further improve the efficiency of medical care, especially in high-pressure environments like emergency rooms. Although voice-to-voice technology has not been utilized in the Olympic Games to keep private spaces in public, it has proven invaluable in closed-door environments such as hospitals. It also utilizes GPS to give the user real-time translations based on their location so that communication will be accurate and efficient. A high-tech solution was made available for B2B sectors such as healthcare providers, travel industries, and global event organizers to employ in the war against healthcare on a universal scale. Technology like this and others will constantly break down obstacles to healthcare because the world just keeps getting a little smaller: people can obtain treatment no matter where they happen to be living or what languages they speak. Are you looking for some of the Best DNS Servers for Gaming to enhance your gaming experience? You came to the right place because here, in this article, we are providing you with the Fastest DNS Servers for Gaming. The in-game ping while playing an online game is depended on the distance to your servers location. However, DNS servers can impact online gaming in terms of upload and download speeds, and lag, which directly relates to your game performance. But before moving further we must be familiar with what DNS servers are What is a DNS Server? The term DNS stands for Domain Name System. Its basically known as the Phonebook of the Internet because humans cant access information online through IP addresses, they have to remember the Domain names such as Google.com or Wikipedia.org. On the other hand, Web browsers interact through IP (Internet Protocol) addresses only and the DNS Systems translates those Domain names to IP addresses so that browsers can load the content. How does DNS work? The DNS (Domain name system) server converts the Domain names (example techworm.net ) to Equivalent IP addresses (such as 192.168.1.1). IP addresses are similar to our home addresses. For example, if someone wants to visit us then they need to follow the right address in order to reach us. Similarly, if someone wants to visit a particular website then they need to follow the right IP address of that server on which the website is stored. Related Best Public DNS Servers Top 10 DNS Servers for Gaming DNS Primary DNS Server Secondary DNS Server Google DNS Server 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4 Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 1.0.0.1 OpenDNS 208.67.220.220 208.67.222.222 Comodo DNS 8.26.56.26 8.20.247.20 Level3 209.244.0.3 209.244.0.4 Quad9 9.9.9.9 149.112.112.112 OpenNIC 23.94.60.240 128.52.130.209 DYN 216.146.35.35 216.146.36.36 Safe DNS 195.46.39.39 195.46.39.40 DNS.Watch 82.200.69.80 84.200.70.40 Verisign Public DNS 64.6.64.6 64.6.65.6 The first on our list is Google DNS Server. Its the worlds leading and largest DNS Server available online. Trusted by billions of people across the globe, Google DNS Server has become the most popular option, as the best DNS for gaming. The biggest feature of Google DNS Server is that it boosts up the browsing experience with enhanced security and gaming experience with lag free and smooth gaming. So if anyone wants to use it they just have to configure the DNS settings of their network just by simply following these IP addresses: Preferred DNS Server: 8.8.8.8 Alternate DNS Server: 8.8.4.4 2. Cloudflare DNS Second, on the list of fastest DNS servers for gaming is Cloudflare DNS which has a coverage spanning 250 cities around the world. Cloudflare is used by 10% of websites as a reverse proxy for protection against attacks on the web servers and also provides extra load-bearing capacity. It comes with several features that make it a good choice as a DNS server for gaming, which also include: Built-in DNSSEC that protects users from DNS spoofing, preventing the hijacking of records DNS lookup speed of 11ms on average, being amongst the top in the world Optional WARP app that creates a secure connection over your standard network tunnel for additional security They also provide 24/7/365 support across the board for any issues regarding their servers or troubleshooting of any nature. Preferred DNS Server: 1.1.1.1 Alternate DNS Server: 1.0.0.1 Our third recommendation in this list is Open DNS. Its a free cloud-delivered network security service that provides shielding against the dangerous attacks over network devices. It also offers two free solutions for personal customers: OpenDNS Family Shield OpenDNS Home. The main purpose of this is to provide the users with faster and safer internet with almost downtime limited to zero. And at last, it also offers a smooth gaming experience. In order to use this Open DNS server, one should configure their Domain Name System settings to the following IP addresses. Preferred DNS Server: 208.67.222.222 Alternate DNS Server: 208.67.220.220 Comodo Secure DNS service is the most reliable DNS Service available online. It delivers the fastest and most dependable internet browsing experience to its users. Speedier DNS means much faster gaming experience and its a fact. So, In order to use Comodo secure DNS, you have to configure the DNS settings of your networks by using following DNS IP addresses. Preferred DNS Server: 8.26.56.26 Alternate DNS Server: 8.20.247.20 The next very popular DNS Service on our list is Level3. It is considered as the best after Google and Open DNS service provider. In order to use this level3 DNS server, one should configure their Domain Name System settings to the following IP addresses. Favored DNS Server: 209.244.0.3 Exchange DNS Server: 209.244.0.4 6. Quad9 DNS Quad9 provides a DNS with an in-built filter and monitor that looks for malicious activities on the network. This DNS blocks all malwares of all nature from getting on the network tunnel and entering your device. It looks up malicious names from a centralized name and matches against incoming packets for taking appropriate action. The Swiss-based Quad9 foundation has 150 DNS resolve clusters across 90 countries that helps in reducing latency and offering maximum possible speed. Preferred DNS Server 9.9.9.9 Alternate DNS Server 149.112.112.112 The next on the list of fastest DNS for gaming is OpenNic and like many other DNS Servers OpenNic is the best alternative of your default DNS Server. However, the best part is it will protect your laptop/pc from attackers and even from the government. Hence maintaining your privacy at a very high level. So if you want to use it set your preferred and alternate DNS servers to be: Preferred DNS Server 46.151.208.154 Alternative DNS Server 128.199.248.105 Similar like other options mentioned above, DYN offers the same fast and secure web browsing experience to its users. With smoother browsing, it also protects your information from most phishing attacks and hackers. So in order to use it, all you need is to set your preferred and alternate DNS servers to: Preferred DNS Server 216.146.35.35 Alternate DNS Server 216.146.36.36 Another very known DNS Service called Safe DNS is the best option for those who like to protect their Laptop/PC from attacks. In order to use it, one can set their preferred and alternate DNS servers to: Preferred DNS Server 195.46.39.39 Alternate DNS Server 195.46.39.40 Next up, we have DNS.watch is the free DNS service in the list. It provides an uncensored, fast and stable web browsing experience and that too for free of cost. In order to use it, one should set their preferred and alternate DNS servers to: Preferred DNS Server 84.200.69.80 Alternate DNS Server 84.200.70.40 Verisign Public DNS is a free DNS by the telecom giant, offering a more secure and private way to access the internet. This gaming DNS is said to be privacy-focused. It doesnt store any personally identifiable information about its users, such as IP addresses or browsing history. Preferred DNS Server 64.6.64.6 Alternate DNS Server 64.6.65.6 Also Read Best Discord Bots To Enhance Your Server How To Change DNS Server On Windows 10 Changing the DNS server on your Windows 10 computer is easier than you think. It will take less than two minutes to change DNS, provided you follow every step. 1. Head straight to the taskbar where the network icon for your Internet is located. On a wired Internet connection, it will appear as we are displaying. On the other hand, the icon for wireless looks similar to Wi-Fi. 2. Right-click on the Network icon and select the Open Network and Internet Settings. 3. Look at the bottom in the Advanced network settings section. Click on the Network and Sharing Center. A network setting window of the Control Panel will open up. 4. In the View your active networks section, click on the option that says Ethernet. It will say WiFi (WiFiNetwork Name) for users connected to the Internet using a Wi-Fi network. 5. The Ethernet/Wi-Fi Status window will appear on the screen. Head straight to the properties located in the lower Activity section. 6. Now, the Ethernet/Wi-Fi properties wizard will open up. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP) as denoted by A. As soon as you select the option, the properties button will become accessible. Click on it to open its properties. 7. Once inside the IPv4 properties, head straight to the second section and tick Use the following DNS addresses, as denoted by A. Then the two fields for Primary and Alternate DNS will become editable. We added the Google DNSs both primary and alternate addresses. Once DNS server addresses are filled, tick the box that says Validate settings upon exit, as denoted by B. After that, click on the OK button, which is denoted by C. Once you close the settings, a troubleshooter will open automatically to ensure that changes have not caused any new issues. How To Change DNS Server On Windows 11 Changing DNS Server on Windows 11 is almost similar to Windows 10. Consequently, you can simply follow all of the steps shared above. That said, the initial steps are a bit different. So first, Open the search bar and type control panel. Once youre in the control panel select Network and Sharing Center. You can now follow all of the steps shared in the Windows 10 section starting with step four. How To Change DNS On Router Suppose you have multiple devices requiring DNS for gaming, then there is no need to change them individually. You can just change the DNS on the router itself. Irrespective of the router/modem model, the DNS settings are generally in Network > WAN. How to Change DNS Server on Smartphone When gaming on a smartphone, it is imperative to change for optimal in-game performance with low ping and high upload/download speed. Change DNS on your smartphones, both iOS, and Android. A. Change DNS on Android Changing the DNS server on your smartphone is easier than on Windows. You will have to make changes to the connected Wi-Fi network. Head to the quick settings bar and long-hold on the Wi-Fi to open the settings. Tap on the connected Wi-Fi network or the arrow next to it(depending on the Android phone). It will open the settings of the network. Scroll down in the menu and tap on the IP Settings to select Static, as opposed to the default DHCP option. The DNS dialogue boxes will appear. DNS 1 is the primary server, while DNS 2 consists of the second server, as denoted by A. Save the DNS changes by clicking on the OK button, denoted by B. You have successfully changed server on an Android smartphone. B. Change DNS on iPhone Just like Android, you can change the DNS server on iPhone as well. The process feels easier here but involves roughly the same number of steps. 1. Head to the settings and scroll down to tap on the Wi-Fi option. 2. The connected Wi-Fi network will appear at the top, along with available networks in the second section. Tap on the blue i button to change to open the Wi-Fi settings for the connected network. 3. Scroll down and tap on the Configure DNS button from the DNS section. 4. Tap on Manual to add your own DNS server to your iPhone. 5. Before the addition, we will delete the existing DNS by tapping on the red button that has a minus symbol. 6. Now we will add another one to replace the delete DNS here. For example, we added Cloudflares DNS here as 1.1.1.1 in the primary DNS field. Then tap on the add button, with the green plus sign, to add a secondary DNS address. Here we added Google DNS address, as you can see with 8.8.8.8. 7. Once both fields, save the DNS change by Save button, located at the top. FAQs Is 1.1.1.1 still the fastest DNS? One of the topmost independent DNS monitoring services DNSPerf has ranked 1.1.1.1 as the fastest DNS in the world. Which is better 1.1.1.1 or 8.8 8.8 for gaming? Cloudflares DNS 1.1.1.1 is obviously more secure and fast than Googles 8.8.8.8. However, you should check and choose whichever is working better for you. What DNS has the lowest ping? Cloudflare DNS 1.1.1.1 is known to have the lowest ping as its server is located across the world. Conclusion So this was all regarding the Best DNS Servers for Gaming. You should test a few and choose whichever is giving better results for you. NEW YORK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- A New York judge overseeing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's hush money case on Monday rejected Trump's motion to delay sentencing set for Friday. Juan Merchan, justice of the New York State Supreme Court in Manhattan, said in a decision that Trump's motion was mostly "a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past." "Therefore, defendant's motion for a stay of these proceedings, including the sentencing hearing scheduled for Jan. 10, 2025, is hereby denied," the decision said. Earlier Monday, Trump's lawyers filed a motion to initiate appellate proceedings based on presidential immunity to challenge Merchan's two recent decisions to uphold his conviction in the hush money case. The commencement of appellate proceedings would mean an automatic stay of further criminal proceedings, argued the lawyers. Judge Merchan set Jan. 10 as the date of sentencing for the hush money case on Friday and Trump's lawyers said if the sentencing happens, he will appear virtually rather than in person. Powerful tremors shake Nepal's capital Kathmandu: AFP Kathmandu, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Powerful tremors shook Nepal's capital Kathmandu just before dawn on Tuesday, an AFP reporter said, as a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck a remote Himalayan region in Tibet in China. The US Geological Survey said the epicentre of the quake was in China, but buildings shook in Kathmandu, more than 200 kilometres away, with officials saying they were checking for damage. Areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Mount Everest were also rattled by the tremors and a series of aftershocks. "It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake, but we don't know about any damages yet," said government official Jagat Prasad Bhusal in Nepal's Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest. Nepal lies on a major geological faultline where the Indian tectonic plate pushes up into the Eurasian plate, forming the Himalayas, and earthquakes are a regular occurrence. In 2015, nearly 9,000 people died and more than 22,000 were injured when a 7.8-magnitude quake struck Nepal, destroying more than half a million homes. Eyeing green legacy, Biden declares new national monuments Los Angeles, United States, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Joe Biden is set Tuesday to designate two new US national monuments -- sprawling parks -- in California as he looks to secure his environmental legacy in the waning days of his presidency. Just weeks before Donald Trump is due to move into the White House, the 82-year-old will proclaim the 624,000-acre (252,000-heactare) Chuckwalla National Monument, near Joshua Tree National Park in southern California. The move will protect the area from drilling, mining, solar energy farms and other industrial activity, and comes after lobbying from Native American tribes who have used the land for millennia. Biden will also create the 224,000-acre Sattitla National Monument in the state's far north, at the border with Oregon, offering that area the same environmental safeguards. "The stunning canyons and winding paths of the Chuckwalla National Monument represent a true unmatched beauty," said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary. "It was my honor to visit this area to explore and meet with federal, state, tribal and local leaders to hear about the need to protect and conserve this sacred area. "President Biden's action today will protect important spiritual and cultural values tied to the land and wildlife. I am so grateful that future generations will have the opportunity to experience what makes this area so unique." Biden's four-year term in office has been marked by the creation of eight other national monuments and the expansion of four more. Tuesday's move will mean he has conserved more lands and waters than any other US president, the White House said. The move comes the day after he signed an executive order banning offshore drilling in an immense area of coastal waters, encompassing 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. Trump, meanwhile, reduced the size of national monuments during his first term in the White House, and environmentalists fear the next four years could see similar chipping away at the protected status of public lands, as the Republican seeks to expand fossil fuel extraction. Biden's proclamations are the latest in a string of last-minute climate policy actions that seem intended to frustrate what environmentalists fear will be the wrecking ball of another Trump presidency. 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. Dalai Lama 'deeply saddened' by Tibet earthquake deaths Dharamsala, India, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said Tuesday he was "deeply saddened" and was offering prayers for those killed in a devastating earthquake in China's remote Himalayan region. "I am deeply saddened to learn of the devastating earthquake... It has caused the tragic loss of many lives, numerous injuries, and extensive destruction to homes and property," the exiled leader said in a statement. "I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured." The powerful quake struck Tingri county, near the border with Nepal, killing at least 95 people according to Chinese state media. The Dalai Lama was just 23 when he escaped the Tibetan capital Lhasa in fear for his life after Chinese soldiers eviscerated an uprising in 1959, crossing the snowy Himalayas into India. The Buddhist spiritual leader has never returned. The Dalai Lama, now aged 89, stepped down as his people's political head in 2011, passing the baton of secular power to a government chosen democratically by some 130,000 Tibetans across the world. Tenzin Lekshay, a spokesman of that government, said they were also "deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the extensive destruction of property" caused by the earthquake. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to the grieving families," he said. Tibetan Buddhists believe the Dalai Lama is the 14th reincarnation of the leader of an institution dating back six centuries, chosen by monks according to ancient Buddhist traditions. Pace of German emissions cuts slows in 2024: study Berlin, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 German greenhouse gas emissions fell again last year but at a slower rate, due to lagging green energy investment by industry and households, a climate think tank said Tuesday. Emissions in Europe's biggest economy fell by three percent in 2024, a "marked slowdown" from a 10-percent drop the previous year, said a study by Agora Energiewende. Germany reflects a wider trend across the European Union, where a 3.8-percent emissions drop is expected for 2024, after an eight percent fall in 2023. However, the study said that Germany's 2024 emissions total of 656 million tonnes did represent a "historic low" and that the year's 18 million-tonne drop was larger than the emissions target enshrined in domestic law. National emissions are down 48 percent from 1990 levels, nearing the EU target of a 55-percent cut by 2030. But progress continues to lag in sectors such as transport, construction and building use where the think tank warned there is "an urgent need for action". Meanwhile industrial emissions actually saw a slight rise of two percent despite Germany's general economic stagnation. When burned, fossil fuels emit greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide that trap heat near the Earth's surface -- a phenomenon blamed for making 2024 the hottest year in history. - Investment held back - Agora Energiewende said that 2023's sharp drop was largely attributable to a slowdown in Germany's ailing industrial sector, where emissions fell 12 percent, and not to long-term changes in production methods. This seems to be borne out by the latest figures; with the German economy predicted to have shrunk less rapidly in 2024, sustained industrial emissions have dragged down the overall picture. Agora Energiewende noted that "in contrast to the electricity sector, no structural progress was visible in industry, building use and transport". "On the contrary, investments in climate-neutral technologies actually went backwards in comparison with the previous year," the think tank said. Germany will hold an early general election on February 23 following the recent collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition, and the study noted that economic and political uncertainty is holding back investment by both households and businesses. Sales of heat pumps were down 44 percent on the previous year, and new electric vehicle registrations down 26 percent. The slight fall in emissions from building use was only due to milder winter weather resulting in reduced need for heating. - Climate 'burdens' - Eighty percent of last year's emissions fall was thanks to record high production of renewable energy and the continued closure of coal-fired power stations. Germany's energy regulator said on Friday that renewable sources such as wind, solar and biomass had risen to 59 percent of electricity generation from 56 percent. "In the electricity sector, the climate protection measures taken in recent years are increasingly bearing fruit," said Agora Energiewende director Simon Mueller. He appealed to political parties now campaigning for elections to take the electricity sector as an example of what needs to be done in the rest of the economy. "Every gas heating system we install and every combustion engine that goes into service is a burden in terms of climate policy because the lifespan of these appliances will end around the time where we must become climate neutral," Mueller said in a press conference. The conservative CDU/CSU opposition, currently riding high in opinion polls, has said it would reverse the planned phase-out of combustion engine vehicles. The extent to which public funds should be used to support the green transition is a key dividing line between Scholz's Social Democrats, who advocate more investment, and the CDU/CSU, which opposes major new spending. Mueller said that Germany's next government must provide "clarity that the transition to climate-neutral technologies will be simple and affordable for all", for example by "increasing support for electric vehicles". I.Coast mining firm to receive fertiliser cargo: Abidjan port Abidjan, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Abidjan port officials said Tuesday that more than a third of a 20,000-tonne shipment of ammonium nitrate fertiliser, an ingredient in explosives, was due for delivery to an Ivorian mining firm. Citing precautions, authorities had Monday insisted the Barbados-flagged Zimrida mooring the controversial cargo in the outer harbour posed no danger, despite campaigners expressing concern about a shipment refused entry to other ports. The vessel was allowed to dock Monday after authorities determined it was not suffering from any damage and met all safety conditions "in line with international maritime rules" after a meeting with several ministries, the ship owner and that of the cargo. Port Director General Hien Yacouba Sie told a news conference 8,000 tonnes of the cargo had been "ordered by a mining operator". On August 22, the cargo became caught in a storm in the Barents Sea after leaving Russia's port of Kandalaksha on the Maltese-flagged Ruby dry bulk carrier. Suffering cracking on its bow and refused entry by several ports over a period of weeks late last year, the Ruby eventually was anchored off the British coast and its cargo transferred to the Zimrida in the eastern British port of Yarmouth. Stored ammonium nitrate caused a explosion at Beirut's port in August 2020 in an inferno which killed more than 220 people and devastated entire neighbourhoods of the Lebanese capital. A material which used as an agricultural fertiliser, ammonium nitrate is also used in mining explosives, a booming sector in Ivory Coast where Sie said its import was increasing. The Ivorian capital's port handled 46,000 tonnes of the chemical compound last year compared with 20,000 in 2023. Concerns have mounted in Abidjan amid memories of the Probo Koala affair, which in August 2006 saw toxic residues on board the Panamanian-registered freighter arrive in the port for treatment after the Dutch port of Amsterdam had refused them. An Ivorian sub-contractor dumped the waste on the city's garbage sites and in at least 18 other locations. Ivorian judges say more than 500 cubic metres (18,000 cubic feet) of spent caustic soda, oil residues and water killed 17 people and poisoned thousands more. Kazakhstan says deal with Uzbekistan will improve water sharing Astana, Kazakhstan, Jan 7 (AFP) Jan 07, 2025 Kazakhstan on Tuesday announced a deal with neighbouring Uzbekistan on measuring levels in the Syr Darya River, a key waterway in an arid region where water shortages are expected to worsen. The two neighbours lie in Central Asia, a region that the UN says is more affected by climate change than the global average, and where water shortages are a regular source of tension between countries. The Syr Darya flows through four Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan) and is under threat from agricultural overuse, wasteful use of water and climate change. "Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have agreed on the specific techniques to track the metering of water on the Syr Darya river," Kazakhstan's ministry of hydro resources and irrigation said. The announcement comes months after the countries, both mostly covered by steppe and desert, identified the 10 zones where the water meters would be located. According to Kazakhstan, the agreement should "ensure total transparency in water measurements". Kazakhstan said it is "actively promoting this issue in negotiations with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan" -- which have had disputes over control of water resources. Despite growing and unprecedented inter-state cooperation in recent years, the water-sharing system in Central Asia -- inherited from the Soviet era -- remains fragile in this region of some 80 million inhabitants. Countries currently exchange water -- necessary not only for agriculture use but also to power hydroelectric plants -- according to a precise schedule. At over 2,200 kilometres (1,370 miles) long, the Syr Darya is estimated to be the longest river in Central Asia, ahead of the Amu Darya. Both rivers of this landlocked region were over-exploited in the Soviet era, notably for cotton crops, which contributed to dry up the Aral Sea. This trend was made worse by climate change -- particularly acute in Central Asia, where it is melting glaciers that feed the rivers -- and by the wasteful use of water, due to ageing infrastructure. AMMAN, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Jordan's Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Yousef Ahmed Al-Hunaiti reaffirmed the Jordanian Armed Forces' readiness to support Syria's national security during talks in Amman on Tuesday with Syria's interim defense minister, state-run Petra news agency reported. Al-Hunaiti met with Murhaf Abu Qasra, who assumed the role of interim defense minister in Syria's new administration last month after the ouster of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The two discussed military and security cooperation, with Al-Hunaiti stressing Jordan's commitment to utilizing all available resources to enhance regional stability and bolster both nations' national security. The discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing shared challenges, particularly along the countries' shared border. Abu Qasra highlighted the deep historical ties between Jordan and Syria and reiterated his country's commitment to close cooperation. He praised Jordan's pivotal role in promoting regional security and stability. SAO PAULO, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian Foreign Ministry announced on Monday the official entry of Indonesia as a full member into BRICS, marking the first expansion of the group after Brazil assumed the rotating presidency for 2025. "Indonesia shares with other BRICS members the support for the reform of global governance institutions and contributes positively to deepening cooperation in the Global South, priorities that align with Brazil's theme for its presidency," the Brazilian ministry said in a statement. Indonesia's accession was approved at BRICS' Johannesburg Summit in August 2023 and formalized following the formation of the new government in the Asian country. The Brazilian government also said that some 100 meetings will be held in 2025 by the specific working groups of BRICS members during President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's administration. Workers clean the Parliament in preparation for the session to elect a president in Beirut, Lebanon, Jan. 8, 2025. Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, on Tuesday called for a general session to be held on Thursday to elect a president for the republic. Since the end of former President Michel Aoun's term on Oct. 31, 2022, Lebanon has been in a presidential vacancy due to political division. The parliament failed to elect a president for the country in 12 electoral sessions. A caretaker government has been running the country amid the presidential vacuum. Lebanon needs a president to ratify any laws that parliament passes and unlock aid from the international community. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) BEIRUT, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, on Tuesday called for a general session to be held on Thursday to elect a president for the republic. Since the end of former President Michel Aoun's term on Oct. 31, 2022, Lebanon has been in a presidential vacancy due to political division. The parliament failed to elect a president for the country in 12 electoral sessions. A caretaker government has been running the country amid the presidential vacuum. Lebanon needs a president to ratify any laws that parliament passes and unlock aid from the international community. Photo taken with a fisheye lens on Jan. 8, 2025 shows photographers taking pictures of the ballot box inside the Parliament in Beirut, Lebanon. Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, on Tuesday called for a general session to be held on Thursday to elect a president for the republic. Since the end of former President Michel Aoun's term on Oct. 31, 2022, Lebanon has been in a presidential vacancy due to political division. The parliament failed to elect a president for the country in 12 electoral sessions. A caretaker government has been running the country amid the presidential vacuum. Lebanon needs a president to ratify any laws that parliament passes and unlock aid from the international community. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) A soldier guards outside the Parliament in Beirut, Lebanon, Jan. 8, 2025. Lebanon's Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, on Tuesday called for a general session to be held on Thursday to elect a president for the republic. Since the end of former President Michel Aoun's term on Oct. 31, 2022, Lebanon has been in a presidential vacancy due to political division. The parliament failed to elect a president for the country in 12 electoral sessions. A caretaker government has been running the country amid the presidential vacuum. Lebanon needs a president to ratify any laws that parliament passes and unlock aid from the international community. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich) 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 The first time Chinese-born composer Mindy Meng Wang visited Australia, she was disappointed. Having been told that Melbourne was the most European of its cities, she had pictured the south of France, or the canals of Venice. She got West Brunswick instead. I had this beautiful fantasy about Australia, and was really disappointed! It thought it was fun for a holiday but not a life. Maybe for retirement. She has now called Melbourne home for more than a decade and was named best musician at the 2021 Music Victoria Awards. She was also the first artist-in-residence at Melbourne Recital Centre to play a non-Western instrument. The guzheng, a harp-like instrument that is an imposing 1.63 metres long, is a difficult one to master. In China, a good player is a fully 100 per cent traditional player. I was good and I was really fast and was given special lessons by the best teachers. I was ahead of everyone around my age. But that came from eight hours practice every day of every school holiday, and huge pressure to get better and better both from family and teachers. Wang grew up in Lanzhou in Chinas Gansu province. With the Gobi Desert to the north and mountainous Tibet to the south, the entire region was once crossed by the Silk Road, and today it remains a great cultural crossroads. Wangs parents worked at a university created to encourage members of Chinas 55 ethnic minorities to pursue higher education, and as a child she was surrounded by people from very different walks of life. China is really big, like Europe, she says. Once you get out of one area and go to another, its completely different, the traditions, sometimes the language and religions, everything. My city is a very mixed place. Advertisement It wasnt until she moved abroad that she realised some people dont get along on account of their backgrounds or beliefs. At the night markets back home, a halal food stall will be centimetres from one roasting pork, but the vendors get along just fine. Theyre friends, theyve been doing this for 50 years, she says. No one is offended because everybody understands that were all just people living in one place and we all have respect. It wasnt until Mindy Meng Wang left China that she realised that some people dont get along because of their backgrounds. Credit: Panzi Studio Wangs own musical practice is just as embracing of difference, fusing age-old traditions and cutting-edge experimentation, ancient techniques and 21st century technologies. But it wasnt until she was sent to study in the UK at 16 that she realised music can be in so many different forms and theres so much music Id never heard of that was so beautiful. Loading In London she started out playing traditional music with Silk String Quartet, the countrys leading exponent of the classical Chinese form. But opportunity came knocking in the form of Blur frontman Damon Albarn, who was looking for someone to play guzheng with his genre-leaping virtual band Gorillaz. Wang realised its far more fun than playing in a traditional string quartet. Mastering an instrument can be torture, but unlearning it can be just as daunting. You put in 10 years of extremely disciplined hard work, becoming the best of the best, youve given so much and you have to let it go. Its not easy. It took years. At the beginning, even though I was curious about new styles I was still very protective of my practice. Advertisement Today you can catch Wang playing jazz festivals, electronic gigs, outdoor dance shows and contemporary classical concerts. This year will see new recordings with Paul Grabowsky plus collaborations with film composer David Hirschfelder (The Dressmaker, Strictly Ballroom) and Burkhard Dallwitz (The Truman Show). Her next project is Opera for the Dead, an experimental performance exploring Chinese mourning rituals premiering at this years Asia TOPA festival in February. Mindy Meng Wang and Monica Lim explore Chinese mourning rituals in Opera for the Dead. Credit: Dewie Bukit The guzheng has baked-in limitations. Its tuned to the D major pentatonic scale, which means there are only five natural notes in each octave, and to change key you need to retune the whole instrument. Think about how a lot of music actually changes key during a piece. That would be an impossible thing on a traditional guzheng. But my way of working is to realise those limitations and then figure something out to get around it. Take 7: The answers according to Mindy Meng Wang Worst habit? Over-commitment. Greatest fear? That humans will destroy the Earth and ourselves (already happening). The line that stayed with you? A line from Laozis Tao Te Ching. Its meaning is that the highest virtue resembles water. My interpretation: Laozi uses water as a metaphor for people with noble character, likening their qualities to water. First, it is soft and flexible. Second, it stays in humble, lowly places. Third, it nourishes all things without seeking conflict. There isnt only one path to victory possessing the strength of the strong while maintaining the humility of the weak is true wisdom. Biggest regret? Not understanding my father from an objective and perceptive perspective until after he passed away. Favourite book? Three Hundred Song Lyrics a classic anthology of ci poetry from the Song Dynasty (9601279). These lyrical poems were written to fixed musical tunes with set patterns of rhythm and rhyme. The collection showcases the elegance, emotional depth, and artistic refinement of Song ci, featuring works by some of the most renowned poets in Chinese literary history. Which artwork/song do you wish was yours? Birds in warped time II. If you could time travel, where would you go? Changan during the Tang Dynasty or 60 years into the future to see where my daughter is. Wang is constantly inventing new techniques and tuning systems to expand the guzhengs capabilities. She also collaborates with a wide array of composers and musicians from across the sonic spectrum. My curiosity about what I can do on this instrument has driven me to try different things. From experimental to electronic pop to Western classical to jazz, I want to see if this instrument can do this. If I can do this. She sums up her musical curiosity in a simple way: If you have 10 flavours of ice-cream, why dont you try all of them? Advertisement 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 Underwhelem is not an obvious place to find happiness. Voul village in a hag-ridden hollow. All ways to it winding, all roads to it narrow. Auverlooked bog, veiled in vog, thirtover, undercreepen, rank with seepings: Jeyes Fluid, slurry, zweat and pus, anus greaze, squitters, jizz and blood The Dorset dialect takes some getting used to, but thats far enough without trigger warnings. The world of Orlam, Polly Jean Harveys second book of poetry, is one of nature and innocence defiled by every horror imaginable, miraculously redeemed by the richness of its language and the sheer joy of its creation. Id always wanted to go and investigate the folklore of the area that I had grown up in, she explains of the book that also yielded her latest album, I Inside the Old Year Dying. PJ Harvey took a year off after she started questioning whether music still made her happy. Credit: Steve Gullick I was interested in going back into nature and going back into the childhood imagination. You learn to value that childlike inquiry into things, she says. As an artist, I always just follow where I feel Im being led. This was always on my list of things to do. And it felt like the right time. Its difficult to reconcile Polly Harveys breezy conversation with the unsettling intensity of her work. The first time we spoke, around the time of her mid-90s breakthrough with To Bring You My Love, she shared her amusement about the axe-wielding bitch character from hell that interviewers tended to expect: one of many voices shes since explored. Now, 10 albums into one of the most original and lavishly acclaimed careers in British rock and beyond, her timbre has shifted again: high and fey to channel imagined nine-year-old Ira-Abel of the village of Underwhelem, abused and haunted chronicler of Gore Woods under the all-seeing dead lambs eye god, Orlam. Advertisement The authors mother, Eva Jean Harvey, is thanked for her close reading in the books acknowledgments, but the obvious suggestion that little Iras story is some kind of homecoming to her own sheep farm childhood near the Dorset village of Corscombe is met with a dubious pause. I do have a hard work ethic. I go to my desk and I work nine-to-five most days, but going to my desk was no longer a joy. It felt rich, she says guardedly. I mean, there was so much information to access because it had been the place where Id grown up and was of extra interest to me because of that. The dialect is dying out, though you still hear a lot of it being spoken in the West Country. It was extremely easy to learn the language, [so] it obviously was encoded in me somewhere. A lot of the words are so memorable anyway, and sound often equals sense. You know, the way the words sound is what they are. PJ Harvey at the Sydney Opera House, February 2008. Credit: Domino Postiglione This is true in the case of yollerheads (daffodils), tree-tears (leaves), vorehearing (premonition), winker (eyeball) and any number of less elegant body parts. But the books glossary is invaluable when it comes to the likes of heissen (a prediction of evil), biver (to shake with cold or fear) and ether-hunger (the hunger for earth, sometimes felt by persons approaching death). Some of what I wanted to explore in my examination of the country idyll is that, you know, its not idyllic, she says with a laugh. People that have grown up in the countryside know that its not just beauty and light and everyones happily engaged with nature. Advertisement Theres a lot of bad stuff that goes on there, just as much as there is in cities. I wanted to give a little bit of a window into that. You know, humans are humans. We do bad things wherever we are. Its a darkness evoked by her one-time partner Nick Cave in West Country Girl, the song he wrote about Harvey in 1997, including the evocative line: Comes from the West country where the birds sing bass. Before their painful and very public break-up, the pairs vocal pairing on Henry Lee was one of the highlights of the Bad Seeds acclaimed 1996 Murder Ballads album. Today, Harvey is more keenly aware than ever of the toll that art can take. Orlam took eight years, Harvey says, researching all of the mythology, researching the language and the ways of living in different eras in the West Country ... My biggest driving force is wanting to learn. To completely submerge myself in a subject and educate myself in it, then put all of that study down and let my creative brain write, thats such a joyous thing for me. PJ Harvey later set her poems to music. Credit: Getty Images But no, it didnt really feel like a homecoming, she says firmly. As an artist, youre always on the outside looking in. I felt like an outsider, observing, working my way towards it. That feeling of observing keeps me separate from feeling at home anywhere, really. Its not an unpleasant feeling, she adds, but the process of observation has taken its toll over previous projects. Harveys last two albums have been steeped in war, from its poisoned roots in money and power to the macabre reality of limbs in trees to the endless aftermath that haunts the world. The grim historical perspective of 2011s Mercury Prize-winning Let England Shake was followed by Hope Six Demolition Project and The Hollow of the Hand, its accompanying book of poems with photographer Seamus Murphy, documenting travels in Kosovo, Afghanistan and Washington. Advertisement Asked how she managed to protect herself, steeped for years in live geopolitical horrors for the sake of art that is anything but easy listening, shes momentarily taken aback. Thats really lovely that youve asked that question ... I didnt know how to protect myself, she says. Prior to writing Let England Shake, I spent four or five years studying war: past wars and current wars and art that had been made around wars and everything from first-hand accounts of torture to you know, everything. And it did affect me. Soon after demoing those songs, she fell ill. She remembers calling her friend Ian Rickson, the British theatre director who stages her live shows, and telling him, I dont know whats wrong with me. I just have no energy. I cant do anything. I literally wake up after eight hours sleep and I have to lie down again. I thought there was something seriously wrong. I went for blood tests and all sorts of tests, and no one could find anything. And it was Ian who said, Its the work, dont you see? This is your body and emotions responding. PJ Harvey and former partner Nick Cave in the film clip for Henry Lee. Credit: Dave Tonge/Getty Images Since then, I have been more aware of trying to practise resting my brain and therefore my body and emotions from the work because it did affect me in a big way. And it still affects me. The Hope Six project brought more internal challenges. The field trips had been astonishing and quite life changing, but when she came to work on the poems and the songs themselves two entirely different disciplines, shes learnt, over a decade-long mentorship with Scottish poet Don Paterson the writing felt like hard graft. Advertisement When I was first beginning to craft songs at 19, 20 years old, there was a sense of absolute joy in finding a way to express things through a medium I was in love with: music and song and singing and I began to realise how far away from that I had come. I do have a hard work ethic. I go to my desk and I work nine-to-five most days, but going to my desk was no longer a joy. I think also being at that stage in my life moving towards 50 it felt like a serious question to ask myself, OK, should I still be doing this? If this is not making me very happy, I dont feel I can be doing good work. After another rigorous world tour in 2016-17, Harvey imposed a kind of gap year to ponder the question. It involved going back to music theory shed neglected as a girl and composing for stage and screen: the tense psychodrama The Virtues, the black Irish comedy Bad Sisters, Ivo van Hoves London stage adaptation of All About Eve. PJ Harvey performing in Sydney in 2017. Credit: Jamie Williams That was a really wonderful place to be because I wasnt serving my own artistic journey or voice, she says. I was serving the director; I was serving the screenwriter, and thats quite a different discipline. That was quite a restful place to still be studying music. Loading It was through this process that I re-found my joy because part of the exercise in trying to be a better pianist or a better guitar player was to play other peoples songs. Id try and play Nina Simone songs on the piano, or Leonard Cohen songs on the guitar, or Sandy Denny Advertisement Every spring since 1937, the NSW government has installed shark nets at 51 beaches in Greater Sydney. Next spring could be different. The science has been clear for some time that the mesh nets do little to protect humans, yet do much harm to non-target species such as harmless grey nurse sharks, dolphins, humpback whales, stingrays and turtles. Now it seems the politics might also be shifting. Last July, when Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty announced shark nets would be returning for this summer, there were two significant elements to what she said. First, she announced that the nets would be removed one month earlier than usual to respond to increased turtle activity in April. As well as helping turtles, this could also serve the purpose of letting Moriarty test public sentiment. A lack of public outcry could embolden her to go further. A Glock pistol, a grenade and a semi-automatic rifle were allegedly found in a stolen car after police were shot at during a pursuit through Sydneys west, with the suspected gunman extradited from Queensland after a week on the run. Paea Tuiniua, 20, faced Downing Centre Court on Tuesday charged with 13 offences, including discharging a pistol to resist or prevent arrest, firing a weapon in a manner likely to injure the safety of a police officer, and possessing a grenade, AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, Glock-19 and a Beretta M9 handgun. He did not apply for bail and it was formally refused. Paea Tuiniua was extradited from Queensland on 13 charges, including possessing a grenade, pistol and semi-assault rifle. Tuiniua was arrested at Brisbane Airport on Friday wearing luxury brand Burberry board shorts and T-shirt and extradited to NSW on Monday, having allegedly fled the state following the New Years Eve pursuit. The alleged driver, 20-year-old Faez Finau, was arrested immediately after the chase. NSW is scrambling to build a $250 million mRNA facility to produce vaccines against potentially disastrous animal pandemics after being refused access to Modernas new taxpayer-funded factory in Melbourne. The Clayton factory touted as the southern hemispheres only mRNA manufacturing facility and backed by the federal and Victorian governments opened last month under a $2 billion, 10-year deal with the US pharmaceutical giant. Tiba Biosciences co-founder Peter McGrath says Australia has an opportunity to create an export industry and associated jobs in manufacturing RNA vaccines. Credit: Steven Siewert The NSW governments Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development says it inquired about using the factory to make mRNA vaccines for animals but was rejected because it is only for vaccines for human respiratory viruses. The department has funded Boston-based Tiba Biotech to develop mRNA vaccines for animal diseases, including foot-and-mouth disease an outbreak of which could do enormous damage to the economy. The company says several vaccines are showing promise. How do you make Europe relatively affordable, while also lessening your environmental and social impact, and exploring places with fewer tourists? Travel off-peak, and avoid the big-ticket destinations. Thats it. Thats all you have to do. Go in March or April, or October or November. Steer clear of the big-name capitals and instead explore second cities, or smaller towns and villages. Stay longer in one place instead of moving around all the time. All of a sudden, you will find yourself in some gorgeous part of Sicily, or maybe rural France, or a Greek seaside, or a Spanish mountain, and you will be living the European dream. The Middle East is open The Monastery in Petra, Jordan. Credit: iStock Theres no shortage of bad news coming out of the Middle East, with instability in Syria, war in Gaza, destruction in Lebanon, unrest in Iran. It would be easy to just strike this region off your list. But that would be a mistake, because the Middle East is not a homogenous bloc, and vast swathes are very much open to tourism, providing some of the worlds great experiences. Try Jordan, home to Petra and Wadi Rum; Oman, with its rich history and culture; the UAE, with its modern food scene and mix of luxury and hospitality; and Saudi Arabia, which continues its bid to open to the tourism world. And all these places are easily accessible from Australia. NZD is cheap So you really want to go overseas, but you want somewhere safe, accessible and affordable, with very little carbon to burn to get there? Then we have the spot for you, and its just across the ditch in New Zealand. The Aussie dollar is still buying $NZ1.11, which makes not just NZ affordable, but also the Cook Islands, which uses NZD as its currency. Both nations are year-round destinations, and between them offer everything from idyllic beach hangs to winery crawls to mountain hikes to road trips and more, with a reliably friendly welcome, and cultural attractions that tap into rich Polynesian heritage. New destinations are opening up Busuanga, the Philippines. Credit: iStock Another way to avoid the crowds and take your touristy dollars (and presence) to places that really want you is to keep an eye out for destinations just beginning to gain traction among mainstream travellers. Consider the Philippines, in particular the pristine island of Busuanga, the perfect alternative to plenty of South-East Asian hotspots. Or Daegu, a South Korean city becoming popular for its historic sites and modern cafe scene. Indonesia, too, is promoting alternatives to perennially popular Bali, including Yogyakarta and Labuan Bajo. South America is accessible South America has so, so much to offer travellers, not to mention affordability that is, once you get there. One of the key issues for Australians has always been the initial journey, both its cost and its inconvenience. That, however, has now been ironed out recently, with both LATAM and Qantas offering non-stop flights from Sydney to Santiago and LATAM also flying from Melbourne (or alternatively, you can go via Auckland), and airfares steady at about $2000 return. Thats not the cheapest flight in the world, but its comparable to many European fares, and it opens a whole world of possibility in one of the most exciting continents on the planet. Japan is Japan (and theres also South Korea) Japan is still home to the worlds best food and its affordable too. Credit: iStock Everything we know and love about Japan is likely to remain steady in 2025. The exchange rate with the yen is still favourable for Australian travellers. The country is still a single flight away, with a very small time difference to adjust to. Cultural attractions in Japan remain as strong as ever. The snow still falls (and falls, and falls). The food is still the best in the world, and affordable. No wonder were all flocking here. For those who have already visited Japan, however perhaps even a few times its worth considering South Korea as an equally affordable and enjoyable alternative. We stan for the Stans Registan Square, Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Explore the history of the Silk Road. Credit: iStock Heres another amazing set of destinations for those keen to avoid the crowds in 2025, and yet still enjoy world-beating tourism experiences. Were talking about the Stans: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan. Each offers its own slice of Silk Road history, natural beauty, deeply ingrained hospitality and culture unlike any in the rest of the world. All are accessible via connecting flights in the Middle East or Asia, with airfares (at time of writing) hovering about $2000 return from Australias east coast. Loading CAD is affordable Yes, the Australian dollar is taking an absolute beating from the USD, currently buying a meagre 62 cents (it was 69 cents a few months ago). The good news for North America fans, however, is that our dollar is holding steady against the Canadian buck, buying 90 cents (slightly higher than it was a year ago). Travel off-peak and keep an eye out for flight deals, and Canada can be on your list for 2025. Frequent flyer points Free flights! Free upgrades! Earn just by using your credit card! This all sounds great, right? Except, frequent flyer programs are rarely what they seem, particularly when actually finding an available flight to use your points is mission impossible. Airport security screening Laptops in or out? Perhaps one day airports will adopt a universal approach to security. Credit: iStock One day perhaps, all airports around the world will adopt a unified code at their security screening checkpoints. Until then, international passengers will continue to have only the fuzziest idea of whats expected as they approach the conveyor belt. Shoes on or off? Is my footwear shoes or boots? Laptops in or out? Sigh. Sydney International Airport Had the dubious pleasure of arriving into Sydneys international airport lately? Its likely you were greeted with chaotic scenes thanks to the airports chronic inability to streamline the arrivals process. Kiosks, wayfaring signage and lanes have been rearranged multiple times but to no avail. More e-gate kiosks are on the way lets hope they help. Airport Wi-Fi Some international airports get it right you can log onto Wi-Fi and browse for hours. Others force you to find a kiosk, get a code, delay heading to your far-flung gate or to lurk outside a lounge. Old-school travellers without e-sims hoping to log on at Auckland Airport face quite a challenge. Officially, Wi-Fi is available but good luck connecting to it at either the international or domestic terminals. Hopefully, this will be rectified when both terminals are integrated, with the mega-terminal set to open in 2028-29. See aucklandairport.co.nz Closed boarding gates Pre-flight petri dish ... sealed departure gates are never a good idea. Credit: iStock Boo to those airlines that insist we sit in their sealed boarding gates for up to an hour before a flight, with no access to water, food, often no bathrooms, limited powerpoints, and never enough chairs for the number of passengers. These giant cubicles also limit air-flow, creating a petri dish as we sit on the floor, waiting until we sit on the aircraft. Wi-Fi on planes Its a miracle of our age: by connecting to Wi-Fi on a plane you can communicate with anyone, or read news and social media while high above the planet. But should you? In-flight Wi-Fi is notoriously unreliable, especially on international flights over oceans; its often expensive; and do you really want to doomscroll or argue with user Troll4327 on the way to your relaxing holiday? Underrated Airport pick-ups Is there ever a more welcome sight, at the end of a long flight, than that of a smiling local holding up a board or iPad bearing your name? You know theyre going to heft your bags, escort you to an air-conditioned car, then drop you off safely at your hotel in an unknown city. Its a fabulous investment in a great start to any trip. LAX Terminal 3, Los Angeles LAXs revamped Terminal 3 is clean, modern and efficient. Credit: Completed 18 months ahead of schedule, Deltas new Terminal 3 in LAX has automated check-in kiosks, 14 security lanes and a dedicated air-side walkway to the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Throw in plentiful seating, a fabulous Delta Sky Club lounge and an impressive food and retail offering and suddenly LAX is no longer the soul-sapping experience it once was. See delta.com Quiet rooms in airports Rooms without screens, boarding announcements or food smells the quiet rooms at Dohas Hamed International Airport have it right distanced recliner seats, in cool, darkened rooms with space for your carry-on. Theyre free and offer respite during long layovers or delays for economy passengers without the luxury of an airport lounge. Istanbuls very special guest rooms are low-stimulation rooms for travellers with such conditions as autism or dementia. See dohahamadairport.com, istairport.com Fun in airports Hamad International Airport, Qatar. Credit: Getty Images Airports dont have to be sterile spaces that set kids screaming. Defuse the stress at Denpasar domestics beanbag reading spaces and street art that you can have fun posing with; Dohas giant sculptures that double as kids playgrounds; the Korean hanbok dress-ups at Seouls Incheon airport, or the museums and art galleries found in Amsterdam, Cairo and Istanbuls airports. Carry-on only Carry on carrying on. Credit: Getty Images Heres the deal: ditch half your clothes, and then dont worry about queuing for check-in, or standing around at the carousel on arrival. Also, dont worry about your checked luggage being misplaced by baggage handlers. And feel just a little bit better because your lighter luggage means fewer carbon emissions. Theres almost no downside (except if everyone does this, theres no overhead space). Loading Valet parking at Sydney Airport Have you actually checked the cost of valet parking at Sydneys international airport? Its less than you think, and not at all the outrageous rip-off that short-term parking represents. For parents with young kids, or travellers coming from afar, the cost of hassle-free valet is barely higher than trying to find a parking space at Sydney Airport and walking to the terminal yourself. See sydneyairport.com.au Vietnam Airlines A business class seat on Vietnam Airlines. Credit: A carrier growing in both size and popularity, mostly because of its competitive pricing, great service, generous luggage allowances, discounted domestic flights for those flying internationally, and willingness to allow pets on board. The major downside is the sometimes long lay-overs in either Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi, but they make fabulous places to break the journey. See vietnamairlines.com Special meals Sure, theres often a veggie option available from the trolley, but its best to always pre-book vegetarian meals when flying economy. More thought and innovation is often put into the creation of vegetarian meals (particularly on any Indian, South-East Asian or Middle Eastern airline); plus youll be served before everyone else. It can be a lottery, but 90 per cent of the time, its a winner. Airport lounges Dining booths at Air Frances Paris-Charles de Gaulle lounge. South Korea has wrapped the first week of the new year in a state of roiling political turmoil. Its impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol remains holed up inside his official residence, his security forces having blocked efforts by corruption investigators to arrest him for questioning over his failed bid to impose martial law on December 3. Stop the steal! A supporter of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol shouts slogans during a rally to oppose his impeachment near the presidential residence in Seoul. Credit: AP The extraordinary events are the latest in a month-long saga during which Yoons presidential powers were suspended when he was impeached by the opposition-dominated parliament late last year. The conservative leader, who has invited comparisons to Donald Trump for embracing the US president-elects denunciation of negative media coverage as fake news, is now facing a criminal probe on whether he committed insurrection by sending armed troops into the parliament during his short-lived martial law decree. Diplomats from Indonesia and China unveil a logo to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 7, 2025. The logo was created by an Indonesian youth who won a design competition organized by the Chinese Embassy in Jakarta, the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing, and the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI). (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.) JAKARTA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Diplomats from Indonesia and China unveiled a logo on Tuesday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The logo was created by an Indonesian youth who won a design competition organized by the Chinese Embassy in Jakarta, the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing, and the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI). "In this design competition, we are delighted to see designers and art enthusiasts from both countries actively participating, with over 600 submissions from Indonesia alone. Each participant skillfully incorporated the historical ties, cooperative achievements, and shared visions for a brighter future between China and Indonesia," said Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia Wang Lutong at the unveiling ceremony held at the China Space within the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta. Indonesian Ambassador to China Djauhari Oratmangun praised the competition for reflecting the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations. "The bilateral collaboration continues to benefit the welfare of the Indonesian people," he noted, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties in security, economy, and people-to-people exchanges. Dino Patti Djalal, founder and chairman of FPCI and a former Indonesian diplomat, expressed optimism about the future development of Indonesia-China relations The 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations is not only a milestone of friendship, but will also lay a firm foundation for the future development of bilateral cooperation, he added. Indonesia and China established diplomatic ties on April 13, 1950. A logo to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Indonesia is pictured in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 7, 2025. The logo was created by an Indonesian youth who won a design competition organized by the Chinese Embassy in Jakarta, the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing, and the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI). (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.) London: Several Australians are among about 30 people snowed in at Britains highest pub after an Arctic blast swept across Europe, sending the mercury tumbling well below zero and blanketing much of the country. Customers who had trekked to Tan Hill Inn in the remote Yorkshire Dales, which is 528 metres above sea level, have been holed up in the world-famous pub along with pub staff since being cut off on Saturday. Bar manager Nicole Hayes shows Australian guest Paul Wright how to build a snowman as a remote Yorkshire pub was cut off for three days and counting after snowstorms across Britain. Credit: Tan Hill Inn Temperatures fell to minus 11.1 degrees in some parts of Britain over the weekend. The UKs Met Office and Health Security Agency issued amber danger to life alerts for northern England ahead of the blizzards. More than 4 millimetres an hour fell over Yorkshire over the weekend and into Monday, following torrential rain late on New Years Eve and into New Years Day, leading to homes being evacuated in many parts of the north-west. Auto Dealers Expect High Valuations in 2025 as Profits Normalize INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The majority of auto dealers maintain a positive outlook on the valuation of their dealerships over the next twelve months as profits normalize, according to the newly released 2024 Kerrigan Dealer Survey. The survey, which queried over 635 auto dealers to gather insights on the future value of their businesses, franchise valuations and acquisition trends, revealed that more than half (51%) anticipate that 2024 valuations will remain at elevated levels into 2025, while 17% foresee an increase in valuations. With the stabilization of pre-tax earnings, 43% of dealers surveyed view current earnings as a reliable indicator of future performance. This confidence in earnings reflects the normalization of dealership profits experienced by many franchises in 2024 and is the likely driver behind their continued optimism about valuations. An increasing minority of dealers, 43%, have a more negative outlook on profits than in 2024, with new electric vehicle (EV) sales having the most adverse influence: 77% expect EVs will negatively impact profitability in 2025. By contrast, the vast majority of dealers expect hybrid new vehicle sales (77%) and parts and service (75%) to enhance 2025 earnings. Additionally, nearly half of dealers surveyed expect investment in OEM facilities to negatively impact future profits. Despite a moderation in profits, auto dealer sentiment remains upbeat on 2025s valuations, directly impacting acquisition activity in the coming year, said Erin Kerrigan, Founder and Managing Director of Kerrigan Advisors. As the survey reveals, compared to last year, more dealers are expecting an increase in overall buy/sell activity, with more anticipating adding one or more dealerships to their portfolio in 2025. This aligns with the industrys view that scale will be crucial in the evolving auto retail landscape, prompting enterprises to either expand or sell as consolidation continues. According to the survey, 49% of dealerships expect to add one or more dealerships in 2025 compared with 47% in 2024, while fewer, 44%, expect no change in the number of dealerships they plan to add or subtract, compared to 47% in 2024. The percentage expecting to sell one or more dealerships has inched up to 7% from 6% in 2024, perhaps reflecting the slight increase in those who have a negative outlook on profits and valuations. Changing Views on Specific Franchises While most dealers in the survey believe franchise values will either increase or remain the same over the next 12 months, certain franchises saw a sharp decline in valuation expectations, largely correlated with an oversupply of new vehicle inventory and a significant decline in franchise profitability. Dealers expect that Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Kia, and Subaru will see the highest gains in valuation over the next 12 months, with over 30% anticipating an increase in their value. This marks the first time Lexus has led the category, while Honda returns to the top five list after being absent last year. However, Kia, which led the category last year, experienced an 11-percentage point decline in dealer expectations and Hyundai, which held the second-highest valuation expectations last year, did not even make the top five. Over 64% expect CDJR, Infiniti, Lincoln and Nissan to decline in value in the next 12 months. Notably, CDJR and Nissan saw a 20-percentage point increase in the percentage of dealers expecting a decrease in valuation. Top 5 Most & Least Trusted Franchises According to The Kerrigan Dealer Survey 2024 Rank Most Trusted Least Trusted 1 Toyota CDJR 2 Lexus Infiniti 3 Subaru Nissan 4 Honda Lincoln 5 Porsche Ford Kerrigan Advisors again measured dealers trust level in each franchise. Toyota continues to rank #1 by a wide margin, with 83% of dealers showing a high level of trust in the franchise, nearly 3.5x higher than the survey average of 24%. Conversely, 72% of dealers reported they had no trust in CDJR which is consistent with the valuation degradation expectation. The no trust levels for Stellantis, Lincoln, Infiniti and Nissan are the highest weve seen since we first asked this question. For context, the worst result previously recorded by any franchise was Ford at 48% no trust but Stellantis has now reached 72% and Nissan is at 58%, said Erin Kerrigan. For the first time in the survey, Kerrigan Advisors asked dealers which franchises they are seeking to add to their enterprise in 2025. The results are consistent with Kerrigan Advisors proprietary Buyer Database of more than 1,000 dealership buyers. Toyota and Lexus are by far the most requested brands in our Buyer Database and in this years survey, said Ryan Kerrigan, Managing Director of Kerrigan Advisors. The measured approach the OEM takes to network size, EV strategy and inventory management are highly attractive to dealers today. Dealers are seeking to invest in franchises they trust, and Toyota and Lexus continue to reign supreme in that category. A significant number of dealers will look to acquire dealerships in the year to come, indicating a positive industry outlook overall. Nevertheless, dealers have distinctly varying views on specific franchises, with certain OEMs eliciting a lack of trust and confidence, while others earn a high level of trust and strong profit expectations. Based on these results, Kerrigan Advisors believes 2025 will be a robust year for buy/sell activity with buyers seeking the most trusted brands and continuing to divest of those they find more challenging, concluded Ryan Kerrigan. Notable changes in franchises' expected valuations from the 2024 Kerrigan Dealer Survey: Honda ranked as the #2 brand among dealers looking to add a franchise in 2025, with nearly one-third of respondents selecting it, and was also recognized as the most improved brand in 2024 for valuation increase expectations, rising by 14 percentage points. ranked as the #2 brand among dealers looking to add a franchise in 2025, with nearly one-third of respondents selecting it, and was also recognized as the most improved brand in 2024 for valuation increase expectations, rising by 14 percentage points. Toyota/Lexus secured the top spot as the most trusted OEM by dealers. Toyota leads the industry in trust, with 83% of respondents reporting a high level of trust in the OEM, supported by its stronger buyer demand. Lexus achieved the second-highest year-over-year increase in trust for 2024, with a 16-percentage point increase in dealers reporting a high level of trust. secured the top spot as the most trusted OEM by dealers. Toyota leads the industry in trust, with 83% of respondents reporting a high level of trust in the OEM, supported by its stronger buyer demand. Lexus achieved the second-highest year-over-year increase in trust for 2024, with a 16-percentage point increase in dealers reporting a high level of trust. Ford, after ranking as the least trusted franchise by dealers in 2023, saw a marked improvement in 2024 increasing 11 percentage points and is now ranked the fifth least trusted franchise. after ranking as the least trusted franchise by dealers in 2023, saw a marked improvement in 2024 increasing 11 percentage points and is now ranked the fifth least trusted franchise. CDJR now ranks as the most likely brand to decline in value in 2024, with 76% of respondents predicting a decline and only 5% expecting an increase, matching Nissan for largest increase in valuation decline. now ranks as the most likely brand to decline in value in 2024, with 76% of respondents predicting a decline and only 5% expecting an increase, matching Nissan for largest increase in valuation decline. Nissan ranked the second least sought-after non-luxury franchise by todays buyers, with just 10% looking to add the franchise in 2025, and for the second consecutive year it ranked the second least trusted non-luxury OEM and third overall just after Infiniti. ranked the second least sought-after non-luxury franchise by todays buyers, with just 10% looking to add the franchise in 2025, and for the second consecutive year it ranked the second least trusted non-luxury OEM and third overall just after Infiniti. Hyundai went from the second most likely franchise to increase in value in 2023 to #7 in 2024, the largest ranking decline in the import non-luxury segment, with 28% of dealers expecting a decline in the Hyundai franchise value in 2025, a 12-percentage point jump from 2023. Methodology The data for The Kerrigan Dealer Survey was gathered from Kerrigan Advisors annual survey of auto dealers in conjunction with the issuance of The Blue Sky Report. The Kerrigan Dealer Survey is based on over 635 anonymous responses from franchised auto dealers in Kerrigan Advisors proprietary dealer database. Responses were collected from June 2024 to November 2024. To download the full Kerrigan Dealer Survey report, click here . . To download a preview of The Blue Sky Report , published by Kerrigan Advisors, click here. , published by Kerrigan Advisors, To access The Kerrigan Index, click here. About Kerrigan Advisors Kerrigan Advisors is the leading sell-side advisor and thought partner to auto dealers nationwide. Since its founding in 2014, the firm has led the industry with the sale of over 225 dealerships representing more than $7 billion in client proceeds, including the third largest transaction in auto retail history the sale of Jim Koons Automotive Companies to Asbury Automotive Group. The firm advises the industrys leading dealership groups, enhancing value through the lifecycle of growing, operating and, when the time is right, selling their businesses. Led by a team of veteran industry experts with backgrounds in investment banking, private equity, accounting, finance and real estate, Kerrigan Advisors does not take listings, rather they develop a customized sales approach for each client to achieve their personal and financial goals. In addition to the firms sell-side advisory services, Kerrigan Advisors also provides a suite of consulting and investor services including growth strategy, market valuation assessments, capital allocation, transactional due diligence, open point proposals, operational improvement and real estate due diligence. Kerrigan Advisors monitors conditions in the buy/sell market and publishes an in-depth analysis each quarter in The Blue Sky Report, which includes Kerrigan Advisors signature blue sky charts, multiples, and analysis for each franchise in the luxury and non-luxury segments. To download a preview of the report, click here. The firm also releases monthly The Kerrigan Index composed of the seven publicly traded auto retail companies with operations focused on the US market. The Kerrigan Auto Retail Index is designed to track dealership valuation trends, while also providing key insights into factors influencing auto retail. To access The Kerrigan Index, click here. To read the 2024 Kerrigan Dealer Survey, click here. To read the 2023 Kerrigan OEM Survey, click here. Kerrigan Advisors also is the co-author of NADAs Guide to Buying and Selling a Dealership. AMMAN, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Syria's interim Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani visited Jordan on Tuesday to discuss security and economic cooperation, marking a shift in bilateral relations following Damascus's recent change in leadership. Al-Shibani and his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi agreed to establish a joint committee focusing on security, energy, and other areas of mutual interest, Jordan's state-owned broadcaster Al Mamlaka TV reported. During the talks in Amman, al-Shibani pledged that Syria would support Jordan's efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly the flow of captagon pills across their shared border. "The stability of Syria means stability for Jordan, and Syria's security positively impacts Jordan," Safadi told reporters, adding that Jordan was prepared to begin immediate electricity supplies to Syria. Al-Shibani, representing Syria's interim administration, emphasized his government's commitment to working with regional and international partners to ensure Syria's stability and territorial integrity. The Syrian minister expressed gratitude for Jordan's hosting of Syrian refugees and called for enhanced bilateral cooperation in reconstruction, investment, and water security. "This marks the beginning of a new chapter in Jordanian-Syrian relations," al-Shibani said. The high-level meeting follows Syria's recent government transition and signals potential warming ties between the neighboring countries. Vehicles of Israeli forces are seen on a street during an Israeli operation in Far'a refugee camp, south of the West Bank City of Tubas, on Jan. 7, 2025. Palestinian sources said Israeli forces launched a large-scale operation at dawn in the Far'a refugee camp and surrounding areas in Tubas on Tuesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) RAMALLAH, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Three Palestinians were killed Tuesday by Israeli strikes in the West Bank, Palestinian sources said. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported that an 18-year-old was killed in an Israeli drone strike in the town of Tamoun, located in the northern West Bank governorate of Tubas. A second drone strike targeted a group of young men in the same area, the organization said, adding that Israeli forces blocked medics from accessing the site. Tubas Governor Ahmad al-Asaad told Xinhua that a second Palestinian, whose identity has yet to be confirmed, was killed in the second strike, adding that Israeli forces removed the body from the scene. In a statement, the Israeli military said its air force had targeted an "armed group" in Tamoun but provided no additional details. In a separate incident in the northern West Bank town of Talluza, local sources said Israeli forces fatally shot Jaafar Dababsa, 40, during a raid on his home. Eyewitnesses said Dababsa was killed after troops stormed his residence. Palestinian sources said Israeli forces launched a large-scale operation at dawn in the Far'a refugee camp and surrounding areas in Tubas, deploying drones and bulldozers. Bulldozers reportedly destroyed infrastructure in the camp, while soldiers raided villages and towns, carrying out arrests and causing extensive property damage. The violence comes a day after a shooting in the northern West Bank killed three Israelis. In recent months, attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinian villages, including arson and killings, have surged, heightening tensions in the region. Vehicles of Israeli forces are seen on a street during an Israeli operation in Far'a refugee camp, south of the West Bank City of Tubas, on Jan. 7, 2025. Palestinian sources said Israeli forces launched a large-scale operation at dawn in the Far'a refugee camp and surrounding areas in Tubas on Tuesday. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua) PBSA, a step forward to enable, motivate more overseas Indians to perform better By Kaushik Bhattacharya : Atul Temurnikar, Chairman and Co-Founder of Global Schools Group, Singapore, is the first Nagpurian to get Pravasi Bharatiya Samman at the hands of the President of India. Atul Temurnikar, Chairman and Co-Founder of Global Schools Group, Singapore, who is also a former resident of Nagpur city and settled in Singapore, brought laurels for his native place by getting nominated for the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) which is the highest honour conferred on overseas Indians by the Government of India every year. This award is a step forward to enable, allow and motivate more Non-Resident Indians (NRI) like me to perform better in various fields internationally. I am truly honoured to be a recipient of this award, Temurnikar told The Hitavada. Temurnikar is the founding Chairman of Global Schools Group, an initiative of Global Schools Foundation (GSF), a Singapore-based not-for-profit community foundation currently operating in 64 international campuses including far East, South East Asia, India and Middle East (through presence in 11 countries) providing quality international education for Primary to High Schools. GSF educates over 45,000 students from more than 70 nations. Temurnikar heads the executive management and oversees its world-wide operations. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, this year has been selected 27 overseas Indians who are recognised for their outstanding achievements both in India and abroad, for 18th edition of PBSA which is scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from January 8 to 10. In the ceremony, Temurnikar will be honoured at the hands of President of India Droupadi Murmu. Temurnikar did his schooling from Mount Carmel in Dhantoli, St Joseph Convent in Kamptee and Somalwar High School. Then he did his graduation from VNIT. I spent the first 22 years in Nagpur. They were very memorable period. The most significant value of education happens in those formative years, said Temurnikar. My father Arvind Temurnikar was a senior officer in Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) and during service, he did many welfare works and started writing books on miners, he added. He authored around 20 books on mining, and he used to distribute those books to all the workers to educate them. That way, it was a blessing when I ventured into education field because I have seen how education has saved many lives in my fathers case, he explained. His mother Usha Temurnikar was an Ayurvedic doctor and she passed away in 2014. While talking about the initiative of honouring NRIs by Government of India, he said, MEA today offering a crystal clear and unparalleled view of India in terms of geopolitics is concern in around the world. The shift of mindset of Government of India in terms of geopolitics giving a massive boost in countrys reputation. Honouring NRIs is a bold step by the government in geopolitics. Appreciating the efforts of Dr S Jaishankar, Temurnikar said, We had an opportunity to work with him many years back when he was the ambassador in Singapore. I worked with him from 2008 to 2011. I can tell he was as clear at that time as he is now. Since 2014, there has been a remarkable shift in MEAs engagement with overseas citizens and overseas Diaspora through its various Embassies and High Commissions. Today, you immediately get a positive response if you post on the High Commissions Facebook, or social media. Similarly, there are many opportunities we get to meet the High Commission officers and ambassadors, and we always share notes about whats going on in education and the community, he explained. Recognition of Diaspora with this award will promote positivity and encourage people to come forward and contribute in their ways for their own home country. So, this motivation goes a long way in motivating others, not from an award point of view but more from a contribution angle, he acclaimed. The Brutalist, Emilia Perez triumph at Golden Globes BEVERLY HILLS : The Brutalist, Brady Corbets 215-minute postwar epic, was crowned best drama film at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, putting one of 2024s most ambitious films on course to be a major contender at the Academy Awards. The Brutalist, shot in VistaVision and being released with an intermission, also won best director for Corbet and best actor for Adrian Brody. The film, about a Jewish artist in the aftermath of World War II, bears many connections to one of Brodys most renowned films, The Pianist. Final cut tie break goes to the director, said Corbet. No one was asking for a three-and-half-hour film about a mid-century designer in 70mm. But it works. The genre-shifting trans musical Emilia Perez won best film, comedy or musical, handing Jacques Audiards movie a major prize and 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. French director Audiard said through an interpreter that he hoped the film is a beacon of light in dark times. I dont have sisters and maybe thats why I made this film about sisterhood, said Audiard. If there were more sisters in the world, maybe it would be a better place. The nights big actor winners included some surprises. One shocker was Moores 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 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 whos 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 theyre necessary, said Stan. But we cant be afraid and look away. Comedian Nikki Glaser kicked off the Globes, with a promise: Im 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 years 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. 5 HMPV cases detected in Ktaka, TN, Guj BENGALURU / CHENNAI / NEW DELHI : AT LEAST four cases of HMPV infections were detected in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu on Monday. However, the State and Union Governments asserted that there was no need to worry and assured people that the authorities were closely monitoring the situation. One case of HMPV was also detected in Gujarat, taking the number of cases reported to five in the country. In a video message, Union Health Minister J P Nadda said: 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. The Karnataka Government asked people not to panic, noting that the infections that have been detected are by virus strains that are not life-threatening. The human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has caused a spike in respiratory illness in China over the past few days, was detected in two infants in Bengaluru during routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens by the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Union Health Ministry said. 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. Neither of the patients has any history of international travel, it further said, emphasising that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries. In Chennai, officials only confirmed two cases of HMPV have been detected but did not immediately divulge any details. 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. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed the health and medical education departments to take all the precautionary measures. Speaking to reporters, he said the infections have been detected in two children. Though it is not a dangerous virus, precautionary measures must be taken. States Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who chaired a meeting of Health department officials said there was no need to panic as the infections that have been detected are by old virus strains that exist in the country. and they are not life-threatening. He also said the two infected infants are doing normal, and advised people to follow general precautionary measures. The Karnataka Government also issued an advisory, urging people not to panic as the virus is not as transmissible as COVID. Emphasising that the respiratory virus primarily affects children, causing infections similar to the common cold, the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) said hospitals have been instructed to report influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases. To prevent escalation of the spread of the virus, people are advised to cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently with soap, avoid public places if symptomatic and close contact with sick persons. ANKARA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Turkish security forces captured 65 suspects linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in operations conducted across 17 provinces, the country's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said Tuesday. In a social media post, Yerlikaya said the week-long operations were coordinated by prosecutors' offices, police counterterrorism units and intelligence departments. He said the raids, codenamed "Mace-36," took place in 17 provinces, including Adana, Antalya, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Istanbul and Izmir, without specifying the time frame. "We are determined to continue our struggle for a terror-free Turkiye, where violence and instability have no place," Yerlikaya said, referring to a new initiative aimed at forcing the PKK to lay down arms. The suspects are accused of spreading terrorist propaganda on social media, being members of the PKK's youth wing and financing the organization. Security forces also seized a large number of unlicensed firearms during the operations. The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the United States, and the European Union, has been engaged in armed rebellion against the Turkish government for four decades. Canadian PM Trudeau resigns as Liberal Party leader TORONTO : CANADIAN Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday in the face of rising discontent over his leadership, and after the abrupt departure of his finance minister signalled 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 authorised 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. US 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 US even though far fewer of each crosses into the US from Canada than from Mexico, which Trump has also threatened. Canada is a major exporter of oil and natural gas to the US, which also relies on its northern neighbour for steel, aluminum and autos. Trudeau has 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., criticising 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 favoured 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 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 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, a former model and TV host. Controversial THE outgoing US President Mr. Joe Biden awarding the coveted Medal of Freedom to particularly nonagenarian philanthropist Mr. George Soros has caused quite a stir not only in the US but also in several countries including India. The main reason behind this is Mr. Soros reputation as an internationally controversial figure, who has been accused by various Governments of causing disturbances in different countries. The timing of Mr. Biden awarding the US highest civilian honour to Mr. Soros is quite amusing, to say the least. It has been no secret that the President-elect of the US Mr. Donald Trump and his close aides including business tycoon Mr. Elon Musk have been critical of Mr. Soros. The Republicans have been accusing Mr. Soros of financing certain protests. But, the US is not the only country where Mr. Soros has been under fire. Surprisingly, all the criticism centres around his financing and support of protests against the Governments he does not like and is a vocal critic of. Mr. Biden is leaving behind for Americans a legacy of complexities by dubbing a man opposing nationalism across the globe to be a patriot. The Hungarian-American is also known as the man who broke the Central bank of England in 1992. The multi-billionaire has made huge money and has presence in more than a 100 countries across the globe through his Open Society Foundations. The activities funded and supported by him and the network of his organisations reflect his political interest in these countries. What has made him a villainous figure in many of these countries is his opinions that are often presented by his network as rightful interpretation of facts. As a result, in his country of origin -- Hungary -- the Prime Minister Mr. Viktor Orban tried to stop Mr. Soros support for certain groups through what came to be known as Stop Soros bill. Turkish President Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, former Deputy Prime Minister of Italy Mr. Matteo Salvini, some British leaders also accused Mr. Soros of fomenting trouble. Given these things, Mr. Soros comes across as a man who is constantly busy playing power games in various countries including India. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections held last year in India, he had openly criticised Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi. This was soon followed by several civil society organisations, certain Western media outlets speaking his language and peddling narratives about alleged democratic backsliding in India. In sharp contrast, these organisations and Western media outlets kept celebrating or sympathising with countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh where human rights were being trampled upon. This led many to suspect that Mr. Soros and his network made money by way of disturbing an economy and currency speculation. In India, Mr. Soros has assumed the identity of someone conspiring to destabilise the country. The old, rich, and dangerous man, as described by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, has continued with his tirade against Indian Government and the party in power. Last month only, there was a stormy debate in Parliament over Mr. Soros. The ruling BJP accused the opposition Congress of having ties with Mr. Soros. Congress refuted the claims and levelled counter-allegations against the BJP. Against this backdrop, the Biden administration honouring Mr. Soros is being viewed as an attempt of granting some sort of legitimacy to the controversial multi-billionaires activities. This has not gone down well with various countries, including the allies of the US. Rather, Mr Biden honouring Mr. Soros is likely to be viewed as proof of the collusion of both with what is infamous as the deep state in the US. This is going to disturb the US relations with different countries, which could be a challenge for Mr. Trump to face. Demolish illegal properties linked to criminals: IGP L&O IGP Law and Order Chhering Dorje By Dheeraj Fartode : In a firm stance against rising illegal activities in State, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Law and Order (Maharashtra) Chhering Dorje has directed all police unit commanders to demolish the illegal constructions of those found involved in illegal activities. IGP Dorje, an IPS officer of 2000 batch, who has served as IGP Nagpur Range, before taking reins as IGP L&O last year, stressed that Unit Commanders must take decisive action against a wide range of illegal activities within their jurisdiction. These include- the illegal sale of liquor, gambling (including Matka and Lottery), unregulated video parlours, the sale of Gutkha, illegal arms trade, Hookah parlours, illicit massage parlours, narcotics manufacturing and trafficking, dance bars, unlicensed clubs, illegal passenger transport, sand and coal mining, and human trafficking. IGP Dorje also warned that if his office received information about illegal activities in any district or police unit, a squad from another district or police unit would be sent to take action. If such an action succeeds, the concerned unit commander would be held responsible. In a directive issued to the state police, IGP Dorje underlined that unit commanders must focus on shutting down illegal activities in their jurisdictions and adopt a zero-tolerance policy for the same. Directing the unit commanders to raid areas with illegal activities, IGP Dorje instructed them to take preventive measures against anti-social elements involved in illegal activities despite previous police actions. He further stated that the police must enlist the help of other government agencies to identify and demolish the illegal constructions of such individuals. Cancel the permits of vehicles used in illegal activities and seal the land being used for such purposes. Also, initiate preventive actions against those who are accomplices of the illegal den operators, to ensure that illegal activities do not flourish. He also directed that a squad from a neighbouring police station be sent to adjacent areas to inspect whether illegal activities have been shut down or are still ongoing. The actions of the neighbouring police stations squad should be supervised by an officer of the DCP or Addl SP rank, he instructed. Additionally, he directed a confidential inquiry into complaints of illegal activities received from the public. Unit commanders must review the number of complaints received regarding illegal activities, the actions taken, and whether illegal activities have resumed in areas where the police previously conducted raids. SDPO/ACP should be held responsible IGP Dorje stated that if it is found that illegal activities continue despite the directive for stern action, disciplinary measures should be taken against the officer in charge of the concerned police station. Supervisory officers such as SDPO/ACP are responsible for these matters, and their Kasuri report should also be checked, for which an inquiry should be conducted, stated Dorje. HMPV not deadly: Dr Gangakhedkar NEW DELHI : To date, there is no evidence of mortality or a severe transmission rate, said Dr Raman Gangakhedkar, the former ICMR scientist 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. 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 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 2018, 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. Indias 1st bullet train not a distant dream: PM New Delhi : PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stones for key railway projects across India The time when the first bullet train will run in India is not far, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday as he underlined the rising demand for high-speed trains from across the country and the sectors historic transformation under his Government. Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of multiple railway projects through video conferencing, further strengthening Indias railway infrastructure. Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also attended the virtual event. 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. Addressing the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the strides India is making in connectivity, referring to his recent experience with the Namo Bharat train in Delhi-NCR and the expansion of Delhi Metro projects. This is a significant achievement. The metro network in India has now crossed over 1,000 kilometres, he said. Calling it a big day for Indias new age connectivity, PM Modi stressed the collective progress of the nation, stating that the projects reflect the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and the resolution of a Viksit Bharat. He congratulated the people of the nation on the launch of these transformative projects. The Prime Minister noted the transformation in Indian Railways over the past decade, stressing visible changes in infrastructure, services, and connectivity. The development of Indian Railways is crucial for achieving the resolution of a Viksit Bharat, he said. He elaborated on four focus areas for railway development: modernisation of infrastructure, enhanced facilities for commuters, improved connectivity across the country, and employment generation. Kelibag Road or Hawkers Road? While hawkers dominate the newly-widened Kelibag Road, the shopkeepers occupy the footpath by not only putting up the shop display but also park their four-wheelers. (Pic by Satish Raut) By Dewang Rathod : The ambitious Kelibag Road Widening project as even after the Supreme Court ruling has failed to serve the purpose. For, vendors and roadside shop-keepers have gradually claimed the widened road leaving commuters to fend for themselves The widening of Kelibag Road, which started three years ago, with the intention of easing traffic flow is once again choked, not by vehicles but by rampant enchroachments by hawkers and small businesses and vendors. The situation has turned to an extent where the locals and residents refer to it as a Hawkers Road. The project for road-widening, which was initiated in 2018 under the guidance of Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister, was observed as a much-needed relief for the congested Mahal area. The project had its fair share of hurdles including strong opposition from locals, shop owners and legal battles that escalated to the Supreme Court. After the State Government won legal battle, enchroachments were cleared, illegal structures were demolished and the road was widened to facilitate improved vehicular movement. Previously, the project brought major changes and relief to the commuters. However, over the past few years, small vendors and hawkers have gradually claimed the road, and shop-keepers the footpaths, the road has turned back into a chaotic marketplace. The enchroachments are affecting traffic flow leaving no room for parking for visitors and also compelling pedestrians take the road. People suffered a lot when the road-widening plan was implemented. For months, we couldnt even reach our own homes with own vehicles. Finallly, when administration resolved the issue, hawkers occupied every inch of an empty space. Shopkeepers are suffering, pedestrians cant even walk without bumping cars into each other. I have a question to administration, whether its aware of this problem? What the police are doing? I feel its name should be changed from Kelibagh Road to Hawkers Road, said Manoj Vaidya, a resident of Mahal. As a part of the redevelopment plan, a shopping complex was built behind the Kelibag Road , providing alternatives for small shops and hawkers to conduct their businesses. Howevere, the initiative also failed to serve its purpose, instead of shifting their operations to the complex, many local shop owners have turned their business space into godowns, choosing to continue on the Kelibagh Road. Sanjay Kamble, Superintendent, Anti-Enchroachment Wing, Nagpur Municipal Corporation said, We conduct daily drives to remove enchroachments. However, these hawkers still return the next day. Its a constant issue, not just on the Kelibagh Road but also the Sitabuldi main road and Gittikhadan have become a challenge. Locals are cursing the administration and law enforcement for their failure in addressing the issue. Many locals pointed out that, the hawkers problem is not new but the menace is an old headache with no solution. Mah leaders meet Governor seeking removal of Munde from Cabinet MUMBAI : POLITICAL leaders cutting across the party lines on Monday called on Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan, urging him to remove Dhananjay Munde from the State Cabinet to ensure a free and fair probe into the killing of Beed Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Amid the controversy and demand for his ouster from the Cabinet, Munde met Deputy Chief Minister and NCP President Ajit Pawar on Monday. However, details of the meeting were not available. The delegation, comprising Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar and BJP MLA Suresh Dhas, submitted a memorandum to the Governor, requesting him to take decisive action on the issue that would help uphold the rule of law and regain public confidence in the dispensation of justice. Deshmukh, the Sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was tragically abducted, tortured, and murdered on December 9, allegedly in retaliation for his efforts to prevent extortion attempts against an energy firm linked to a windmill project. As part of the investigation, police have so far arrested seven persons connected to the case, including Walmik Karad, an aide to Munde. Karads involvement has raised eyebrows, particularly following his public surrender via a social media video on December 31, 2024. The event attracted large crowds at the CID headquarters in Pune, leading to concerns over potential disorder and preferential treatment. The leaders have demanded Mundes resignation, a murder case against Karad, strict action against negligent police officials, and measures to curb extortion and hooliganism in Beed. Dhas, the only legislator from the ruling dispensation part of the delegation, rubbished Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Rauts claims that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had supported his tirade against Karad. Dhas has levelled several allegations against Karad and his associates and hinted that Munde supported Karad. The BJP MLA said, The Chief Minister has not asked me to say things. He (Fadnavis) would have told me if he disapproved of whatever I have said and done so far. He could have asked me to stop, but he hasnt. Beed Sarpanch murder case Need to review security of public representatives: Pawar to Fadnavis PUNE, Jan 6 (PTI) NATIONALIST Congress Party (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, Pawar expressed concern over some of the killers of Santosh Deshmukh, 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. NAXAL attack 8 jawans, civilian killed in IED ambush in Bijapur A massive crater left behind on the Kutru-Bedre road near Ambeli village in Bijapur district, caused by a powerful IED blast targeting security forces. The Hitavada State Bureau Bastar/Raipur, Jan 6 5 senior Maoist cadres eliminated in Abujhmad gunfight Security forces face dual challenges in Bastar; IED blast claims lives amid Abujhmad Ops success. Weapons, including AK-47s and SLRs, recovered during operations. After a year of significant counterinsurgency successes, security forces in Chhattisgarh faced a grim reminder of Maoist threats when a deadly IED ambush in Bijapur claimed nine lives, including eight District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawans and one civilian driver. The attack occurred on Monday at 2:15 PM on the Kutru-Bedre road near Ambeli village as a joint operation team from Dantewada, Narayanpur, and Bijapur was returning from an anti-Naxal mission. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Anti-Naxal Ops, Vivekananda Sinha confirmed the incident, stating, The IED blast near Ambeli village tragically claimed nine lives. Detailed investigations are under way to ascertain the sequence of events. The Bastar Range Police have now identified all the martyrs of the ambush. They include DRG personnel Buddhuram Korasa, Dumma Markam, Pandru Ram Poyam, and Baman Sodhi, alongside Bastar Fighters personnel Somdu Vetti, Sudarshan Vetti, Subarnath Yadav, and Harish Korram. Civilian driver Tuleshwar Rana also lost his life in the attack. Simultaneously, security forces achieved a significant victory in the dense Abujhmad forests, neutralising five armed Maoists, including two women cadres, in a three-day operation. Bastar Range Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sundarraj Pattilingam stated, The operation resulted in the recovery of five bodies, including senior cadres of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) PLGA Platoon 32. Weapons like AK-47 and SLR rifles were seized during the mission. The joint operation, involving DRG units from Bastar, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, and Dantewada with STF support, engaged insurgents in multiple firefights. IGP Sundarraj elaborated, The elimination of high-ranking cadres is a critical step in dismantling Maoist operations. Search efforts continue for additional evidence and insurgents. Sacrifice of DRG soldiers wont go in vain: Shah NEW DELHI, Jan 6 (PTI) UNION Home Minister Amit Shah vowed to eliminate Naxals from the country by March 2026 and asserted that the sacrifice of those killed by the extremists in Chhattisgarh will not go in vain. I am deeply saddened by the news of the loss of DRG soldiers in an IED blast in Bijapur. 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 in India by March 2026, he said in a post on X in Hindi. This was the biggest strike by Maoists on security forces in the State in the last two years and the first in 2025. COLOMBO, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved a proposal to extend further relief which is relevant to tax deviations for three international airports in the country, according to the government's information department on Tuesday. Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake submitted the proposal, the department said. According to the department, concessionary motivation schemes have been introduced by the Airport and Aviation Services for attracting international airline services for Jaffna International Airport, Colombo International Airport (Ratmalana), and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. The cabinet approved the extension of a concession of 50 percent fee waiver from the presently implemented deviation tax for airlines operating fixed-time flights to Jaffna International Airport till January 30, 2026, extension of a concession of 50 percent fee waiver from the presently implemented deviation tax for airlines operating fixed-time flights to Colombo International Airport (Ratmalana) for one year from March 27, 2025, and extension of full concession relevant to the presently implemented deviation tax for airlines operating fixed-time flights to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport for a further one-year period from December 29, 2024, the department added. by Xinhua writers Huang Xinxin, Liu Chang and Zhang Ge BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Most tourists seek to avoid visiting the same places again and again, but Kim Jong-gu from the Republic of Korea (ROK) is an exception. This winter marks his third visit to Zhangjiajie, a scenic wonderland in central China that inspired the movie Avatar. "China's decision to waive visas for visitors from my country made me feel truly welcomed," Kim said. "So as soon as the policy was announced, I booked a trip to Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province." In November, China extended its visa-free transit policy to allow ordinary passport holders from 38 countries, including the ROK, to visit China for a maximum of 30 days without applying for a visa. In December, China announced a significant relaxation of the visa-free transit policy, extending the permitted stay for eligible foreign travelers to 240 hours from the previous periods of either 72 hours or 144 hours. Kim first encountered Zhangjiajie's towering peaks and otherworldly landscapes in 2002. His second trip in 2014, however, proved physically challenging, requiring him to climb 999 steps just to reach the base of Tianmen Cave in Zhangjiajie. "It was exhausting," he recalled. While the 68-year-old has never thought that this time, he could ascend to the summit of Tianmen Cave at his age, which perches high on a steep cliff. Escalators have now been carved into the mountain, allowing him to reach the summit effortlessly. "With these conveniences, I'm sure I can visit here again, even when I get older," Kim said. For many people from the ROK, the new transit policy has made travel to China more appealing. Zhangjiajie, alongside major destinations like Beijing, Shanghai and Qingdao, is now buzzing with ROK tourists. At Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport, a newly designated port for visa-free entry, international arrivals soared to about 30,000 since the relaxation of the visa-free transit policy in November, with those from the ROK accounting for over 20,000, an increase of 204 percent year on year. Among the swarm were Choi Jong-ho and his wife, who visited China for the first time. "The visa exemptions saved us time and money, and more importantly, allowed us to travel with ease," said Choi, who has long wished to visit Zhangjiajie and made the trip right after the visa-free expansion. The couple also plans to visit Xi'an, an ancient capital city in northwest China, in the spring. Lee Soon-yong, 65, who had previously toured major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou, embarked on his first visa-free journey in China this winter. "With visa-free access, all you need to prepare is an open heart ready to enjoy the trip," said Lee, who also celebrated his birthday with his family at a local hotpot restaurant in Zhangjiajie. The surge in ROK tourists has transformed the daily life of Zheng Aihua, a Korean-speaking tour guide who has worked in Zhangjiajie for about 20 years. "The wave of tourists has kept me busier than ever. Sometimes, I'd barely finish dropping off a group of tourists at the airport before immediately having to rush to pick up another one," Zheng said. Zhou Xiaolei, an associate professor at the School of Asian Studies, Beijing Foreign Studies University, noted that the appeal of many Chinese scenic spots like Zhangjiajie to people from the ROK lies in their resonance with the romanticized image of classical Chinese landscapes. She also emphasized the importance of diversifying China's cultural tourism promotion to engage tourists with a broader range of cities and cultural experiences. As China opens wider to the world and makes entry procedures smoother, travel to China has never been easier for globetrotters. For Kim Jong-gu, every visit to China in the past decades gave him a completely fresh impression of the country. "Chinese people are always striving for new achievements. That's inspiring," Kim said. GAZA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, according to Palestinian sources. Mahmoud Basal, a spokesperson for the Civil Defense Authority in Gaza, said four people were killed and five others injured in an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City. Three more Palestinians were killed, and 15 others wounded when Israeli aircraft struck a gathering in Jabalia Al-Nazla in the northern Gaza Strip, Basal added. In a separate incident, Al-Awda Hospital reported that it received the body of one fatality and two injured individuals following an Israeli airstrike on a house near the Al-Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. Hussam Al-Daqran, spokesperson for Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, said medical teams recovered four bodies and multiple wounded after an airstrike targeted a house in the Al-Bureij refugee camp. The Israeli military has been carrying out large-scale operations in Gaza following a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left about 1,200 Israelis dead and saw around 250 hostages taken into Gaza. The Gaza-based health authorities reported on Tuesday that the Palestinian death toll from Israeli attacks has risen to 45,885. They also warned of a critical fuel shortage threatening hospitals, oxygen stations, and other medical facilities. "There is no fuel stock in hospitals due to the occupation's restricted supply policy since the start of the war," the health authorities said in a statement, calling on international and humanitarian organizations to urgently intervene and provide fuel to sustain hospital operations. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council announced the appointment and removal of several officials on Tuesday. Guan Zhiou replaced Wang Guanghua as general supervisor of national natural resources. Guan will no longer serve as director of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration (National Park Administration). Shu Wei replaced Pu Chun as deputy head of the State Administration for Market Regulation. Pu was also removed from the post of director of the National Certification and Accreditation Administration. Deng Li will no longer serve as vice minister of foreign affairs. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 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, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday. It is reported that Secretary-General of the SCO Nurlan Yermekbayev said in an interview that it is wrong to compare NATO and the SCO. The SCO emphasizes the non-aligned and de-ideologized nature and is for peace and cooperation. Guo said that the SCO has attracted an increasing number of partners and boasted higher-quality development since its founding 24 years ago, and now has 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," Guo said. 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, Guo said. Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, inspects houses damaged during the earthquake in Dingri County of Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Following General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping's instructions and Premier Li Qiang's request, Zhang led officials in charge of relevant departments to the quake site to guide the rescue and relief efforts. (Xinhua/Li Xiang) LHASA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A total of 126 people have been confirmed dead and 188 others injured after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Tuesday morning, toppling thousands of rural houses on the northern slope of the Himalayas. The earthquake struck at 9:05 a.m. (Beijing Time), with the epicenter located in Tsogo Township, Dingri County, in the city of Xigaze. There are 27 villages and approximately 6,900 people within a 20-km radius of the epicenter. A preliminary survey shows 3,609 houses have collapsed, said the city government of Xigaze, adding that 407 trapped people have been rescued and over 30,000 affected residents have been relocated. The search for trapped victims is ongoing. Rescuers are also racing against time to set up tents for relocated residents in an area where temperatures are forecast to drop to minus 17 degrees Celsius. In Tsogo Township at the epicenter and the worst-hit Chamco Township, Xinhua correspondents saw many toppled houses and residents staying in open spaces for safety. "The first shock wave struck before dawn, and it made lights and furniture shake," said 49-year-old Pasang Tsering, a villager from Metog Village in Tsogo. "Then came a second and stronger one, so I dashed outside immediately," he recounted to Xinhua. "I've never seen an earthquake this big before," another villager named Pasang said while clearing house debris. "We're now most concerned with where to spend the night. The village has some spare tents, and officials said more are on the way." Tsering Phuntsog, Party chief of Gurum Village in Chamco, lost his 74-year-old mother, and several other family members remained buried in debris. The village with 222 residents reported 22 deaths, including 11 children, he said, adding that all the houses in the village were damaged. "Even young people couldn't run out of the houses when the earthquake hit, let alone old people and children," said Tsering Phuntsog. ALL-OUT RESCUE EFFORT China's response to strong earthquakes usually features a massive mobilization, with national, provincial and local governments deploying rescuers and funds to the quake-hit area. Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday ordered all-out rescue efforts to save lives and minimize casualties. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has led a team to the quake site to guide the rescue and relief efforts. China's central authorities have dispatched some 22,000 disaster relief items to the quake-hit region, including cotton tents, winter coats, quilts and folding beds, together with special relief materials for high-altitude and frigid areas. The earthquake emergency response in Xizang has been raised to level I, the highest one, the region's emergency command center announced on Tuesday. The region has deployed more than 12,000 rescuers, including fire fighters, soldiers, police officers and professional rescuers, to the quake site. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management said they allocated 100 million yuan (about 13.9 million U.S. dollars) to support disaster relief efforts in Xizang. The National Development and Reform Commission also allocated 100 million yuan to support post-disaster emergency recovery. The Red Cross Society of China has initiated an emergency response to send 4,600 items of relief supplies to the quake-affected areas, including cotton tents, quilts, insulated jackets and folding beds. Xinhua reporters in Gurum Village said the resettlement site, located in the farmland next to the village, has set up 15 tents, which can accommodate all the affected people and have sufficient quilts, food and water. As of 6:08 p.m., telecommunications had resumed in the three hard-hit townships near the epicenter, said the Xizang branch of China Mobile. WHERE IS DINGRI? The county of Dingri has a population of over 61,000 and is one of the most populous border counties in Xizang. It lies on the northern slope of the Himalayas, bordering Nepal to the south. With an average altitude of 4,500 meters, Dingri is home to the northern base camp of Mount Qomolangma, the world's highest peak. The Mount Qomolangma scenic area has been temporarily closed, and tourists and staff members are in a safe condition, according to the Dingri Culture and Tourism Bureau. No damage has been reported so far in Tashilhunpo Monastery, Panchen Rinpoche's traditional seat, in the city of Xigaze, where the tremor was felt. According to the weather forecast, Dingri will experience mostly sunny weather over the next three days, with the temperature ranging between minus 17 and 8 degrees Celsius. Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, visits a resident injured in the earthquake at the People's Hospital of Dingri County in Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Following General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping's instructions and Premier Li Qiang's request, Zhang led officials in charge of relevant departments to the quake site to guide the rescue and relief efforts. (Xinhua/Li Xiang) Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, visits a quake-affected resident at a relocation site in Dingri County of Xigaze City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Following General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping's instructions and Premier Li Qiang's request, Zhang led officials in charge of relevant departments to the quake site to guide the rescue and relief efforts. (Xinhua/Li Xiang) KABUL, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The construction work of 111 development and maintenance projects has been put into operation over the past nine months in east Afghanistan's Logar province, the state-owned Bakhtar news agency reported on Tuesday. Costing 1.4 billion afghani (nearly 19.8 million U.S. dollars), the projects have been completed with financial assistance from the domestic budget and partner organizations in the outskirts of the province, the news agency quoted a local official as saying. With the implementation of these projects, job opportunities have been created for 1,600 local residents and living conditions of thousands of people in the province have improved, it said. The Afghan caretaker government has planned to launch more agricultural and infrastructure projects across the war-ravaged country, aimed at tackling economic challenges and creating job opportunities. Pambei-led UNLF refutes | IMPHAL, Jan 7: The Pambei-led UNLF has refuted the Central forces allegation of violating the peace agreement ground rules as baseless. The outfit signed a peace agreement with the Government of India and the Government of Manipur on November 29, 2023. On January 4, 2025, The Hindu carried a news report of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla asserting that members of the outfit violating the peace agreement ground rules must be arrested under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980. But the Governors decision/statement was based on false reports, the outfit said in a press release issued by its DOP Director Charairongba Thokchom. By coming to such a hasty decision without authenticating the reports furnished to him, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has demeaned his ethics and integrity, it said. The Governors hasty decision/direction has evoked a serious question whether he is working to sabotage the comprehensive political dialogue which would be held between the Government of India and the outfit, it said. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla should acknowledge that any act or intention of sabotaging the proposed political dialogue would prove to be a serious hurdle to resolving the Manipur-India political conflict, it said. The outfit said that it has been closely watching the sincerity of India in the backdrop of the current issue of Manipur. If the outfit has violated any ground rules, it should be tabled before the Peace Monitoring Committee (PMC) for examination by both the parties and exploring a solution, it added. India shifting gears to get on the right track to #endTB | Shobha Shukla, Bobby Ramakant - CNS Contd from previous issue Indias survey had found that almost half of the TB patients were asymptomatic and could only be found when screened with X-rays. Lab On Wheels: Where LOW is the new high Laboratory on wheels approach has been deployed in finding TB cases in remote settings across the world since many years. For example, World Health Organization (WHO) docu- mented how WHO recommended decentralised, laboratory independent, battery operated and point-of- care Truenat molecular test along with X-rays have been going in a van in Timor-Leste since 2-3 years to reach the unreached people and offer them the best of TB services. Likewise, in the past 10 years Medantas van on wheels initiative has screened over one million people in Delhi and Haryana states with X-rays and linked those with TB disease to public TB services. India's Health Minister JP Nadda highlighted governments new strategies to make TB services patient-friendly and decentralised. Government has significantly scaled up diagnostic services by increasing the number of laboratories from 120 in 2014 to 8,293 laboratories today. Dr Randeep Guleria, former Director of All India Institute of Medical Sciences and a noted respi- ratory medicine expert and Director of Medanta Medical School wrote a few weeks ago: From a few hundred molecular test machines in 2014-2015, India now has over 7,700 machines. Truenat, an indige- nous molecular diagnostic machine, has drastically reduced the costs of testing, and the time taken to diagnose a patient at district/ block levels. As part of Indias 100 days campaign, vans known as Ni-kshay Vaahan are taking TB services closer to the people in difficult to reach areas. These vans are fitted with ultraportable handheld X-ray machines that are artificial intelligence enabled and use computer-aided detection for TB. The indigenously built handheld X-ray machine Prorad is among the X-rays which are being deployed in several such settings across the country. Impacting change Description automatically generatedIn Barpeta district of western Assam state in India, a photograph shared by governments National Health Mission (NHM) speaks more than a thousand words: WHO recommended Truenat point-of-care molecular test machine kept on a small wooden bench in an open area is providing state-of-the-art testing for active TB disease and rifampicin drug resistance within an hour to those who would otherwise be left behind. We can also see Ni-Kshay Vahaan in the background. Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister told ANI at the start of 2025 that "To make India free from TB, the testing of TB patients in UP has increased 4 times in the last few years. The number of Truenat tests and X-ray machines has also increased. Description automatically generatedIn the mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh, vans on wheels are going to far and difficult to reach areas and taking TB diagnostics and services closer to the people. For example, in Deol village near Baijnath (Kangra district), 89 people from key and other vulnerable populations were screened for TB in one day using handheld ultrapor-table X-ray machines provi- ded by Power Grid Corporation of India (public sector undertaking). Kangra has found 35 more people with active TB disease when it screened thousands with ultraportable handheld X-ray machines and tested over 2000 people from key and other vulnerable populations by 2 January 2025. Similarly, in Village Hall Keri in Ponda, Goa, 113 people from key and other vulnerable populations were screened with ultraportable X-rays and 37 of those with presumptive TB were referred for molecular testing in one day (on 2nd January 2025). In Bablyakhali and Nagamashid slum area, 89 people were screened with X-rays on the same day. In another camp held in Aam Cottombi, Quepem on 31st December 2024, out of all those screened with X-rays for TB, 40 people were found with presumptive TB and referred for Truenat molecular testing. Goa state is the first state in India which replaced microscopy 100% with upfront molecular testing 3 years back. WHO calls for 100% replacement of microscopy with molecular tests because microscopy underperforms in diagnosing TB. In 2012, India had made it compulsory for private healthcare facilities to notify TB disease to the government. This might look like a small step, but it has led to an 8-fold increase in the rate of TB notifications in the private sector, said JP Nadda, Indias current Health Minister. Government of India has been providing INR 500 per month to those with TB to support their nutrition for the duration of the treatment (money is directly transferred in the bank account of the patient). Recently this amount has been increased to INR 1000 from 1st November 2024 onwards. TB rates in India declined by 17.7% and TB death rates came down by 21.4% during the period 2015-2023. As per the latest WHO Global TB Report, India has the highest TB burden in the world (with an estimated 2.8 million people with TB in 2023). SINGAPORE, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs introduced the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Bill, first mooted by then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in 2021, for its first reading during Tuesday's parliamentary sitting. Key proposals in the bill include the introduction of a "Restraining Order" regime, a community-based approach to addressing racial incidents, and safeguards to prevent race-based entities from being used as vectors of foreign influence, the ministry said in a press release. Under the bill, the home affairs minister will have the authority to issue Restraining Orders against individuals involved in "the communication, production, or distribution of content" that undermines racial harmony in Singapore. Individuals subjected to such orders would face restrictions on various activities, including disseminating specified information or materials, addressing specific audiences on specified topics, and contributing to or editing specified publications. The ministry said that the orders would take immediate effect upon issuance, noting that "offensive content can go viral very quickly and may cause widespread and irreparable harm to social cohesion," and that "the government must have the levers to deal with such egregious content swiftly and pre-emptively." The bill also introduced a Community Remedial Initiative, as "criminal prosecution alone will not be able to repair community ties," the ministry said. Following Tuesday's first reading, the bill will proceed to its second and third readings. Once passed by the parliament, it will also require the president's assent to become law. In his 2021 National Day Rally speech, Lee announced that the government would introduce specific legislation on racial harmony to consolidate existing government powers to deal with racial issues, enhance Singapore's ability to address threats to racial harmony, and signal the equal importance of racial harmony alongside religious harmony in society. Singapore is home to a diverse population comprising various ethnic groups. According to the latest census published in 2020, the city-state's resident population includes 74.3 percent Chinese, 13.5 percent Malays and 9.0 percent Indians. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has stated that fishermen from West Bengal were subjected to atrocities while imprisoned by the Bangladesh Navy in Bangladesh. During her visit to the Gangasagar Mela, she expressed her discontent at the helipad ground regarding the incident. The Sunderbans affairs department had organised a programme on the occasion, Fishermens return to their homeland and reunion with their families, where she mentioned that all officials in West Bengal had been trying for several months to rescue these fishermen. After the exchange at the maritime boundary between the two countries on Sunday, chief minister Mamata Banerjee reunited the fishermen with their families in Gangasagar on Monday. This is a very unfortunate incident. One of the rescued fishermen even jumped into the water out of fear of being caught. I have handed over Rs 2 lakh to his wife, the chief minister said. She added that many of the fishermen were beaten there from their waist to leg and instructed the chief secretary to arrange for their treatment. After nearly two-and-a-half months, 95 Indian fishermen, who were kept imprisoned in Bangladesh finally set foot on Indian soil. Around noon on Monday, they were brought to Gangasagar by trawlers. The minister of sundarbans development, Bankim Hazra, and district administrative officials were present. The chief minister provided the fishermen with white pajamas, shawls, and Rs 10,000 as gifts. Advertisement Chief minister Mamata Banerjee arrived at Gangasagar by chopper on Monday to inspect preparations for the fair and met the rescued fishermen. She also interacted with their families. The fishermen were allowed to return to their homes later day. On Sunday, India and Bangladesh exchanged detainees at the international maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal. The process was carried out in the presence of coast guard and administrative officials from both countries. Bangladesh handed over 95 Indian fishermen, while India returned 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. Both groups had been accused of crossing international maritime boundaries. Following the arrests, both countries took steps for repatriation. After learning about the arrest of fishermen from Kakdwip and Namkhana in Bangladesh, the chief minister actively worked to bring them back to India. Advertisement The state government also drew the attention of the central government to the issue. From the chief ministers office, Kakdwip MLA Monturam Pakhira was asked to check on the well-being of the fishermens families. Recently, Bangladeshs ministry of home affairs, through deputy secretary Lutfaun Nahar, issued a notice stating that the interim government had decided to withdraw the cases against these 95 fishermen. It was also decided to return six seized trawlers to India. Similarly, Indias ministry of home affairs decided to release 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. The rescued fishermen, who were aboard trawlers named Jhor 3, Abhijit, Ma Basanti, Narayan 2, and Jai Jagannath, reported that they were subjected to severe physical abuse. Mayor Firhad Hakim today inaugurated the renovated Chetla Boys School, where along with Bengali, English medium has also been introduced. Mr Hakim said along with ones mother tongue it is absolutely necessary to study English which is an international language. Recollecting the past, he said, There was no English medium when I took admission in school, or else my father could have got me admitted to this school, he said adding, Students from middle class families will get quality education where the medium of instruction will be English. The English medium schools in the city have been run by various business groups and it is not possible for the parents of middle class families to send their children to such schools. Advertisement He said the students here will get the best education as the teachers are sincere and imparting education to the students is their motto. Advertisement Bratya Basu, education minister said there was a time when in Bengal there was a debate whether the medium of instruction should be Bengali or English. After coming to power in 2011, Miss Mamata Banerjee changed the proposition and now it is Bengali along with English. He said the British had introduced English so that it would be easier for them to run the administration. They left seven decades ago, but English education has introduced us to the whole world, he said. The renovated Chetla Boys School has e-classrooms and e-black boards among other facilities. Mr Hakim also inaugurated a community hall at Harimohan Ghosh College in Kidderpore. He said some people had been staying forcibly at the college. Mr Ranjit Seal took up the matter with them and they had been rehabilitated. Local people had given the construction materials and helped in the construction of the community hall. My long standing dream has been fulfilled today, he maintained. Several Trinamul Congress (TMC) leaders have alleged a political motive behind the recent murder of senior party leader Dulal Sarkar, alias Babla, in Malda. Minister of state for finance and health Chandrima Bhattacharya visited Sarkars widow Chaitali Sarkar, today to discuss her concerns about the incident. Ms Bhattacharyas visit was made on the instructions of chief minister Mamata Banerjee. During the meeting, Ms Sarkar expressed her apprehensions regarding her husbands murder, which occurred in broad daylight, allegedly at the hands of hired assailants. Advertisement Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ms Bhattacharya said, A political motive behind the murder cannot be ruled out. There must be a mastermind. Who hired professionals to kill him? The police investigation will reveal the truth. Advertisement She also questioned why Mr Sarkars security was withdrawn, stating: I dont understand why the police removed his security. Who gave such instructions? Ms Sarkar, while speaking to the media, said: It is evident who was behind my husbands murder. His rivals plotted to eliminate him, but I will not disclose further details before speaking to the chief minister. My son and I are waiting for justice. My husband was politically shortlisted for a higher post, which may have been a reason for his murder. Ms Sarkar plans to meet Mamata Banerjee after completing her husbands post-death rituals. Malda district TMC president Abdur Rahim Boxi hinted at a political motive, saying: Dulal Sarkar was not an ordinary leader. He served as party president, vice-chairman of English Bazar Municipality and was a councillor for over 30 years. He was deserving of the chairmans post at the municipality, but that alone may not be the reason for his murder. If the police fail to bring the culprits to justice, our party will take necessary steps to ensure punishment, Mr Boxi added. South Malda MP Isha Khan Choudhury also demanded swift action, stating: We never expected a ruling party leader to be murdered in broad daylight. The police must identify the culprits without delay. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Delhi R Alice Vaz launched an online quiz program to promote voter awareness and engagement as part of the National Voters Day celebrations on January 25, under the aegis of SVEEP. The registration for the quiz began on Monday and will remain open till January 19. The quiz will be conducted online from January 21 to January 23, the poll panel said in an official statement on Tuesday. Advertisement All registered voters of Delhi and students from Class 9 onwards are encouraged to participate, it said. Advertisement A total of 33 cash prizes will be awarded, with winners selected from each district. All participants will also receive a certificate of participation. The winners will be felicitated during the National Voters Day celebrations on January 25. Emphasising the importance of the quiz in fostering a deeper understanding of the democratic process and empowering citizens to participate actively, the Delhi CEO urged voters and eligible students to take part in the event and contribute to its success. Amid the ongoing two-month drive against the illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, Delhi Police hitherto deported 30 immigrants from South West district, cops said on Tuesday. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South West) Surendra Choudhary said to address rising concern over unauthorised stay of migrants including Bangladeshi nationals in the capital, the South West District Police has intensified efforts to identify, detain and repatriate individuals residing without valid Indian documents. Advertisement Several teams were constituted to identify such people with day and night patrolling, ensuring effective vigilance and proactive measures against illegal activities. So far 30 immigrants have been placed under detention through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), he added. Advertisement Notably on January 5, during patrolling, on the basis of secret information, a migrant couple, identified as Mohammad Jasim and Zoyneb Akhtar both belonging to Tangel, Bangladesh were detained from Rangpuri area and after due verification, were placed in a detention centre. Similarly, on January 6, the cops received a specific input about a suspect, Aakash roaming in Ekta Vihar, R K Puram, Delhi to rent a room and based on this, he was questioned wherein he claimed to be resident of Kolkata, West Bengal. However, on sustained interrogation and verification of his documents, his true identity was revealed as Mohammad Akkas Ali, resident of Bangladesh. It was transpired that he had been deported twice in the past in 2016 and 2012. He disclosed that his village is located three kilometers from the Benapole-Petrapole border (West Bengal) which is a fenced border. The touts on both sides of the border charge Rs 6,00010,000 per person to facilitate crossing. They gather groups of 810 people to shelter them in nearby locations and cut the barbed fencing at night to enable crossing and by early morning, these groups are transported to nearby railway stations or bus terminals for onward journeys. The Election Commission of India will host a press conference today to announce the schedule for the General Election to the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The press briefing is scheduled to begin at 2.00 pm at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar told reporters on Tuesday that, Today at 2 pm we will announce the Delhi assembly election schedule. All announcements will be made at the press conference Advertisement The Aam Aadmi Party had won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. Advertisement Earlier, AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal alleged that a large-scale fraud in voter additions and deletions in the New Delhi Assembly seat is taking place. In a post on X, Kejriwal cited a letter from Chief Minister Atishi sent to Delhi Chief Electoral Officer. Large-scale fraud taking place in voter additions and deletions in the New Delhi assembly. Delhi CM Atishi ji writes this letter to CEC presenting evidence and seeking time to meet, he said. Delhi minister and AAP leader Gopal Rai said, Our preparations for the elections have been completed. Our candidates are working on the ground. The people in Delhi are ready to elect a government that works, they are ready to elect Arvind Kejriwal BJP has no CM face; they neither have an agenda nor the leaders. They have already conceded defeat. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari said, AAP threatens every constitutional institution. Their nature of urban naxals always remains there But officials are not worried about their (AAP) threats anymore Their top leader is a criminal and his threats will not work On his 58th birthday, AR Rahman, the globally celebrated composer behind iconic works like Jai Ho and Rehna Tu, unveiled the Bharat Maestro Awards. This initiative, launched in collaboration with the KM Music Conservatory, aims to honor the legacy of Indian classical music while inspiring the next generation of musicians. Advertisement The awards celebrate the timeless traditions of classical music and seek to foster young talent to ensure its continued growth and relevance in the modern world. Advertisement AR Rahman, who has won both Grammy and Oscar awards, described the Bharat Maestro Awards as more than just a recognition program. The greatest joy of a guru is to witness the success and growth of their students. This award is not just a recognition but a bridge that unites us through the universal language of sound, he said in a statement. At its core, the awards emphasize the sacred bond between teachers and students, a cornerstone of Indian classical music. They aim to pay tribute to legendary musicians of the past while acknowledging the contributions of todays icons. Honored to announce the launch of the #BharatMaestroAwards, celebrating the timeless art of Indian classical music. Together, we honor bright talents, educators, and regional pioneers who keep this rich legacy alive. Lets connect past, present, and future through the pic.twitter.com/jJFaKDdLrR A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 6, 2025 The Bharat Maestro Awards feature six categories, including four awards for young musicians who have shown exceptional promise and dedication to their craft. A Lifetime Achievement Award will honor a teacher whose contributions have significantly shaped the future of classical music, while a State Medallion will recognize an Indian state for its role in preserving and promoting classical music traditions. Adding a unique and heartfelt element, the awards will be presented by gurus to their own students, symbolizing the essence of the Guru-Shishya Parampara. Winners will also receive cash prizes and opportunities to perform on international platforms, including collaborations with Rahman himself, providing a global stage to showcase their talent. The awards are guided by a distinguished mentor panel comprising music legends such as Asha Bhosle, Amjad Ali Khan, Bombay Jayashri, and Ajoy Chakrabarty. An advisory board of notable figures, including Ila Paliwal, Sai Shravanam, Bharat Bala, Fathima Rafiq, Khatija Rahman, Adam Greig, and Clint Valladares, ensures the initiative maintains the highest standards while embracing the diversity of Indian classical music. The launch of the Bharat Maestro Awards coincides with a significant milestone for the KM Music Conservatory, which celebrates its 16th anniversary this year. Founded by AR Rahman, the conservatory has become a renowned institution for nurturing musical talent, offering programs in both Western and Indian classical traditions as well as music technology. The institutions mission has always been to provide world-class education while preserving Indias rich musical heritage. Rahman highlighted the conservatorys role in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. With this annual award, we hope to build an ecosystem that fosters immersive musical experiences while staying rooted in Indias cultural heritage, he said. Over the years, the conservatory has provided a platform for young artists to develop their craft while staying grounded in the cultural fabric of India. The Game Changer pre-release event in Rajahmundry turned fatal for two fans who met their demise after attending the programme. On January 4, two fans met their tragic demise in a road accident after returning from the event. The films star, Ram Charan, and Pawan Kalyan, Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, were in attendance. Dil Raju, the producer of the awaited film has offered the victims families support of 10 lakhs. Additionally, Pawan Kalyan and Ram Charan have also announced ex-gratia of 5 lakhs for each victims family. The two victims were Arava Manikanta (23) and Thokada Charan (22) from Gaigolupadu in Kakinda. They were travelling by bike when a van collided head-on with them near Vadisaleru approximately at 9:30 pm. Despite being rushed to Peddapuram Hospital, they succumbed to death. Meanwhile, a case has been registered with the Rangampeta police. Advertisement Dil Raju, the co-producer of Game Changer took to social media to express his condolences and offer monetary aid. A post on the official X account of his production house, Sri Venkateswara Creations made the announcement. 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. Advertisement Expressing his remorse, the producer penned, 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. Moreover, Pawan Kalyan has also promised financial aid of 5 lakh each to the victims families. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ram Charan (@alwaysramcharan) Ram Charan also expressed his remorse and announced financial aid of 5 lakhs for each victims family. He said, We always pray that our fans who attend the event go back home safely. Our Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan garu also wished the same. This is a very unfortunate incident. I can understand the pain of the grieving families. I am going through the same pain. My heartfelt condolences to them. Also Read: Kiara Advani hospitalised ahead of Game Changer event? The case comes just a few days after the tragic Pushpa 2 stampede where a 35-year-old woman died. Additionally, her son required hospitalisation. Following the incident, actor Allu Arjun was arrested and is currently on bail. The incident amassed heavy attention. Ram Charans pan-India actioner Game Changer is releasing on January 10. Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have officially finalized their divorce, marking the end of their two-year marriage. Court documents obtained on January 6 confirmed that the couple had reached an amicable settlement. The two Hollywood stars, who married in a low-key Las Vegas ceremony in 2022, had been navigating growing speculation about their relationship before Lopez filed for divorce in August 2024. The filing cited their separation date as April 26, 2024. Advertisement The divorce settlement outlines that both Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck will keep the earnings they accumulated during their marriage, with no spousal support required from either side. Advertisement Lopez will also revert to using her maiden name, officially dropping Affleck. This decision follows a period of public appearances that hinted at trouble in their relationship, including Lopez attending events solo, such as the 2024 Met Gala. In an interview with comedian Nikki Glaser, Lopez opened up about the emotional toll of the breakup, describing how her world felt like it had exploded during the separation. Reflecting on her personal growth, she shared, You have to be good on your own. I thought I learned that, but I didnt. Lopez revealed that she took a step back from the public eye, canceling her tour to focus on herself and her family. She emphasized the importance of self-discovery, calling this challenging time both the hardest and the most rewarding period of her life. Despite their separation, Lopez and Affleck have maintained a friendly relationship. They have been spotted together at family gatherings, including a holiday meal in Los Angeles and a September event with their children. Lopez has since embraced her newfound independence, admitting that she is not actively seeking a new relationship. Theres no new bar because Im not looking for anybody, she told Glaser, adding, What if Im just free? JERUSALEM, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Israel's Defense Ministry announced on Tuesday it has signed deals worth about 1 billion shekels (276 million U.S. dollars) with defense contractor Elbit Systems to boost domestic arms production amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The agreements include the supply of thousands of heavy air munitions and the establishment of a national plant to produce raw materials for the defense industry, previously sourced mainly from abroad. The move comes as Israel seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign military supplies, particularly from the United States, which delayed some bomb shipments last year over concerns about their use in densely populated areas. Israel's air force has deployed more than 83,000 munitions in airstrikes since the outbreak of hostilities, according to military figures. "This is a central lesson from the war that will enable the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) to continue operating powerfully in all theaters," Defense Ministry Director General Eyal Zamir said in a statement. The new raw materials facility aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing independence at a time when some Western governments have expressed reservations about arms supplies to Israel during the Gaza conflict. The ministry said the agreements would enhance the military's operational capabilities while boosting the local economy through expanded production lines. Following a surprise Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023, that killed around 1,200 people in Israel, Israel launched a large-scale offensive in Gaza. The ensuing Israeli operations have resulted in the deaths of nearly 45,900 people in the besieged enclave, according to the health authorities in Gaza. The conflict has also seen Israel engage in clashes with Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and directly with Iran. Filmmaker Payal Kapadia scripted history after receiving two nods at the prestigious Golden Globes awards. Her maiden directorial All We Imagine as Light received nominations under Best Non-English Language Motion Picture and Best Director categories. However, she lost to Frances Emilia Perez and Brady Corbets The Brutalist, respectively. Despite this, Kapadia is gratified over the opportunity and lauded her peers as they bagged top wins. Following the glistening night, on Monday, Payal Kapadia took to Instagram to react to missing out on securing a win, For the unversed, the awaited award ceremony took place in Los Angeles on Sunday. After the budding Indian filmmaker attended the event, she shared a picture with the producers of All We Imagine as Light while reflecting on the snub. In the photograph, she is posing with Thomas Hakim, Julien Graff, and Ranabir Das as they head to the Golden Globes ceremony. She captioned the snippet as, We didnt win anything but had soo much fun. Advertisement Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by B I N N Y L O U I S (@_thatfilmyguy_) Moreover, Kapadia also gave a shout-out to designer Payal Khandwala and stylist Indrakshi Pattanaik for her look. She shared, And a special thank you to @payalkhandwala for this amazing outfit and @styledbyindrakshi for being the kindest, smartest stylist who helped me feel so confident. Even though Payal Kapadia failed to grab a Golden Globe award, she outshined in the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Scripting history, her film bagged the second most prestigious award, following the Palme dOr. The film tells the story of two women in Mumbai. One is Prabha, a troubled nurse who receives an unexpected gift from her estranged husband. The other is her younger roommate, Anu, who is searching for a private space to be intimate with her boyfriend. The two embark on a beach trip that allows them to find a space for their desires to manifest. All We Imagine as Light features Kani Kusruti, Divya Prabha, Chhaya Kadam, and Hridhu Haroon. The film is an Indo-French co-production between Petit Chaos from France and Chalk and Cheese Films from India. Janus and Sideshow will distribute the film in North America. Also Read: Golden Globes 2025: The Brutalist, Emilia Perez, and Shogun dominate the night Meanwhile, The Brutalist dominated the glittering night celebrating the best of global cinema and television in the drama category. On the other hand, Emilia Perez swooped major wins under the Musical or Comedy category. Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty and his fellow sound designer Vijay Kumar have received a prestigious nomination for the 72nd Golden Reel Awards. Their exceptional work on the Malayalam film Aadujeevitham (also known as The Goat Life) has earned them a spot in the Outstanding Achievement in Sound Editing Feature International category. The film, directed by Blessy, has been critically acclaimed for its portrayal of a gripping real-life story. Advertisement Pookutty shared the exciting news on his X (formerly Twitter) account, expressing his gratitude for the recognition. He wrote, It gives me immense pleasure to let you all know that myself and @vijaycanaries are nominated at the 72nd #goldenreelawards at #MPSE of America for our work in the film #TheGoatLife. Thank you for letting us fly @DirectorBlessy @arrahman @PrithviOfficial. Advertisement It gives me immense pleasure to let you all know that myself and @vijaycanaries is nominated at the 72nd #goldenreelawards at #MPSE of America for our work in the film #TheGoatLife. Thank you for letting us fly @DirectorBlessy @arrahman @PrithviOfficial pic.twitter.com/oxsqgjbNHh resul pookutty (@resulp) January 7, 2025 The Golden Reel Awards, presented by the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE), are one of the most esteemed honors in the world of sound editing. Aadujeevitham is now competing alongside international films like Emilia Perez, The Girl with the Needle, and Kneecap for the coveted award. Aadujeevitham, which stars actor Prithviraj Sukumaran, is based on the novel by Benyamin. The story follows Najeeb, a migrant worker from Kerala who moves to Saudi Arabia for work, only to find himself trapped in a life of hardship and forced labor as a shepherd in the desert. The film poignantly depicts his struggle and eventual escape, offering a powerful narrative of resilience and survival. With a soundtrack by A.R. Rahman and cinematography by K.U. Mohanan, the film has received acclaim for its technical excellence. The sound design, in particular, stood out, earning Pookutty and Sarath Mohan the Best Sound Mixing award at the 54th Kerala State Film Awards. The film also swept several other awards, including Best Director for Blessy and Best Actor for Prithviraj Sukumaran. A celebratory evening turned tragic for two young fans following the pre-release event of Game Changer in Rajamahendravaram on January 4. The event, graced by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and the films star Ram Charan, ended on a somber note as two attendees lost their lives in a road accident while returning home. The victims, Aarava Manikanta (23) and Thokada Charan (22), hailed from Gaigolupadu in Kakinada district. Advertisement Their bike collided with a van near Vadisaleru around 9:30 p.m., leaving both critically injured. Despite being rushed to Peddapuram Hospital, they succumbed to their injuries. Advertisement Ram Charan expressed his condolences and announced financial assistance of 5 lakhs each to the families of the deceased. We always hope our fans return home safely after such events. This is an unimaginable loss, and I share the pain of the grieving families, he said. Producer Dil Raju also stepped in to support the victims families. On behalf of Sri Venkateswara Creations, he pledged an additional 10 lakhs and expressed his sorrow on social media. This is a heartbreaking incident. We will stand by the families and ensure they receive all possible support, he wrote. Dear Deputy Chief Minister @PawanKalyan Garu, as your nephew, as an actor, and a proud Indian, I immensely respect you. Thank you for always being there for me and supporting me. pic.twitter.com/Gqr2aeqkVl Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) January 4, 2025 The tragic accident has sparked discussions about fan safety at large-scale events. Pawan Kalyan, reflecting on the incident, questioned whether alternatives to such gatherings could be considered to prevent future mishaps. This incident follows closely on the heels of another tragedy at a Pushpa 2 promotional event, where a stampede claimed the life of a 35-year-old woman and left her son hospitalized. Game Changer, a highly anticipated pan-India action film, is set to release on January 10. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Tuesday said the Union Government as well as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) party led Punjab government were equally responsible for the deepening agriculture crisis in the country, even it appealed to both governments to engage with farmers and do their utmost to save the precious life of Kisan leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. In a statement here, senior SAD leader Dr Daljit Singh Cheema said it was shocking that even though the Supreme Court was monitoring the fast unto death of the Kisan leader almost of a daily basis, both the union government as well as the State government in Punjab were resorting to a blame game and playing politics on such a sensitive issue. Advertisement Efforts are also on to polarize the entire issue which is condemnable and could be dangerous for a border State like Punjab, he said. Advertisement Dr Daljit Cheema appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take the lead and create an atmosphere which could lead to the end of Jagjit Singh Dallewals fast. For this to take place the Prime Minister should notify the guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) immediately. This is in keeping with the assurance made to the people of the country when the Prime Minister withdrew the three agricultural laws which led to the end of the Kisan Andolan. He said besides this the Union Government should also withdraw the draft agriculture policy as farmers felt many clauses contained in the three agricultural laws were being reintroduced in the policy through the back door. Once this policy is withdrawn then an open hearted dialogue can be initiated with all stakeholders to chart out all future policies on agriculture. While asserting that these steps would go a long way in removing the aggravating factors which had resulted in the present Kisan agitation, Dr Cheema condemned chief minister Bhagwant Mann for failing to shoulder the requisite responsibility to ward off the present crisis. Even now it is not too late. The Chief Minister must approach the Prime Minister immediately and impress upon the latter to take the necessary steps to save the life of the fasting Kisan leader whose health is in an extremely precarious condition. Mr Bhagwant Mann should impress upon the union government that the angst of the farmers of Punjab should be assuaged and that not doing so would spell trouble for the border State. The SAD leader also appealed to both the union government and the Punjab government not to indulge in legal formalities to save their skin in case the fasting Kisan leaders health takes a turn for the worse. The situation is extremely alarming and sincere efforts should be made to save Mr Dallewals life and repair the relationship with the farming community which will be severed irreparably in case any harm comes to the fasting Kisan leader. The Chhattisgarh police arrested contractor Suresh Chandrakar, the prime accused in the murder of Bijapur-based journalist Mukesh Chandrakaar, on Monday. The contractor, who had been on the run, was apprehended in Hyderabad and brought to Bijapur for questioning. Following his arrest, the states Public Works Department (PWD) suspended his licence and cancelled all his government tenders. The PWD, in its order dated January 6, 2025, stated that all projects awarded to Suresh Chandrakaar have been annulled. This includes major works such as the construction of the Nelsonar-Gangalur road, the Jaemur-Tumnar road, and the Kutru-Farsegarh road. The department cited a lack of progress over the past eight to ten months as one of the reasons for the cancellation. Advertisement Suresh Chandrakaar, an A-class contractor registered with the PWD, has been in the spotlight since journalist Mukesh Chandrakaars body was discovered on January 3 in a septic tank at Sureshs farmhouse. Police investigations revealed that Mukesh was murdered on January 1. Reports suggest that a personal rivalry between the two relatives, worsened by Mukeshs allegations of corruption in a road construction project undertaken by Suresh, led to the crime. Advertisement Mukesh Chandrakaar, a prominent young journalist in Bastar, ran a local YouTube news channel named Bastar Junction. He had previously exposed alleged corruption in one of Sureshs road projects, which reportedly strained their relationship. Mukesh also played a critical role in 2021 during the Bijapur Takalguda Maoist attack by mediating the release of Cobra Commando Rakeshwar Singh Manhas from Maoist captivity. Political allegations amid the case The murder has taken a political turn, with BJP leaders claiming that Suresh Chandrakar was associated with the Congress. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma alleged that Suresh was a Congress leader, while Congress countered by stating that he had recently joined the BJP. Suresh Chandrakaar, known for his lavish lifestyle, first made headlines in 2021 when he held an extravagant wedding in Bijapur. Apart from government construction projects, he is also involved in mining operations in the Bastar region. The murder of Mukesh Chandrakaar, a fearless journalist who relentlessly pursued stories of corruption and injustice, has sparked outrage across the state. Media organisations have demanded a swift and impartial investigation, while tributes continue to pour in for Mukesh, who was known for his dedication to truth and justice. However, it remains to be seen how the Chhattisgarh government acts against similar allegations of corruption in other road construction and development projects executed by different contractors in the region. The case continues to unfold as investigators delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the crime. Meanwhile, the state government has assured strict action against those involved, reaffirming its commitment to justice and press freedom. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar on Tuesday dismissed the claims of hacking and tampering electronic voting machines (EVMs), saying there is no scope for such manipulations as the machines are foolproof. Notably, in December 2024, the Mumbai Cyber Police had registered an FIR against Syed Shuja, who is reportedly hiding in another country, for allegedly making claims to hack and tamper EVMs. Advertisement Addressing a press conference, the CEC responding to allegations on EVMs manipulation, voter increase, mismatch in votes polled and other concerns raised by the different political parties including Congress, said, There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in the EMV. There is no question of introducing viruses or bugs in the EMV. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. Advertisement High Court and the Supreme Court are continuously saying this in different judgments. No alteration in results is possible by activating a Trojan horse or a virus. Evidence inspires confidence of the Court that they are tamper proof. EVMs are foolproof devices for counting. Allegations of tampering are baseless, he said. Asserting that Indias elections are gold standard, the CEC said there is no scope for any irregularities in the Commission because the procedures are so detailed and added that individually if anyone commits a mistake, action will be taken. It may be mentioned that the Election Commission (EC) on December 10 had said there was no discrepancy found between VVPAT slip count and EVM control unit count in the Maharashtra Assembly polls. The statement came days after the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel in which it alleged serious and grave inconsistencies in the data relating to the polling and counting processes for the Maharashtra polls. On allegations of voter deletion by the political parties, Kumar said all the claims and objections details are shared with the political parties and no deletion can be done without Former 7. The CEC also said the poll panel would take strict action against derogatory remarks on women and use of children during the poll campaign. In a tragic incident in Assams Dima Hasao district, at least three miners were feared killed while 17 others are still trapped in a flooded rat-hole mine in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso in Assam. The incident occurred on Monday when a sudden flood inundated the 300 feet deep mine, believed to have been caused by damage to an underground water source during excavation. Advertisement The deceased miners have been identified, and their bodies are visible from the surface. Advertisement However, the recovery efforts have been fraught with challenges as waterlogging and hazardous conditions hinder the rescue mission. Rescue operations involving the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities are ongoing, with Navy divers on standby. Seventeen miners have been trapped inside the mines. The missing individuals include miners from Assam, West Bengal, and Nepal, highlighting the diverse workforce in the regions mining sector. Among those trapped are Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, and Mustafa Sheikh from Assam; Krishna Pada Sarkar from West Bengal; and Ganga Bahadur Shreth from Nepals Udaypur district. Dima Hasao, a remote and hilly district in Assam, has long been a hub for coal mining despite the inherent risks associated with the practice. The Assam police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS and Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Umrangso mine incident. Preliminary findings suggest the mine may be operating illegally. Police have arrested one individual, Punish Nunisa, in connection with the case. Rat-hole mining, where narrow tunnels are dug to extract coal, remains common in the region. These mines are notorious for their lack of safety protocols, with workers often operating in hazardous conditions. Accidents, including collapses and flooding, have frequently resulted in fatalities over the years. The latest disaster has reignited debates over the regulation of coal mining in the state. Environmentalists and labor rights activists have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of safety measures, citing the recurring loss of life in unregulated mines. However, the lucrative nature of coal extraction and its economic importance for local communities have made such reforms difficult to implement. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly under challenging conditions, with divers attempting to navigate the flooded tunnels to locate the trapped miners. The first team entered the mine at 8:45 am on Tuesday, nearly 24 hours after the disaster occurred. Family members and co-workers of the trapped miners have gathered at the site, anxiously awaiting updates and holding vigils for their loved ones. Floating helmets and slippers on the waters surface have fueled fears for the safety of the missing workers. The depth and complexity of the mine, coupled with the difficult terrain of Umrangso, have added to the challenges faced by rescue personnel. The tragedy has once again drawn attention to the dire need for improved safety measures in coal mines and stricter oversight of mining operations in Assam. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday asked Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to review the progress of the implementation of three new criminal laws in February and ensure their full implementation in the state as soon as possible. Shah held a review meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the national capital on the implementation of three new criminal laws in the state. Advertisement The implementation and current status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution and forensics in Uttar Pradesh were reviewed in the meeting. Advertisement Senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Uttar Pradesh Government, including Union Home Secretary, Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) and Director General of the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) were present in the meeting. During the discussion in the meeting, the Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said the three new criminal laws brought under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi are not punishment oriented but victim-centric and their aim is to ensure speedy justice. The Union Home Minister said that the full implementation of new criminal laws in states with large populations like Uttar Pradesh will send a positive message across the entire country. He stressed that 100 per cent implementation of the new criminal laws should be ensured in all the seven Commissionerates of Uttar Pradesh by March 31, 2025 and in the entire state as soon as possible. Emphasising the need to increase the use of technology, Shah said there should be more than one forensic mobile van available in every district of the state. He also mentioned that forensic teams should be divided into three categories serious, common, and very common so that resources and experts can be used more efficiently and serious cases can be given priority. The Union Home Minister said there should be regular and continuous monitoring of how many of the total registered Zero FIRs have been transferred to the respective states. He said the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister should review the progress of implementation of the three new laws every 15 days and the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police once a week with officials of all the departments concerned. The Indian Army has been deployed to rescue 15 labourers trapped in a coal mine in Umrangso, a remote industrial town in Assams Dima Hasao district. Responding to an urgent appeal from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, a specialised Relief Task Force equipped with advanced tools and led by an experienced officer has been mobilised for the critical operation. Advertisement The rescue mission, meticulously planned to address the delicate and time-sensitive crisis, involves close coordination with civil administration for real-time updates. Advertisement A sudden flood at the 3 Kilo coal mine, located near the Assam-Meghalaya border, caused water levels to rise up to 100 feet in the 300-foot-deep mine, leaving several labourers trapped. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities are working tirelessly alongside the Army to save the workers despite the perilous conditions. Chief Minister Sarma shared updates on the incident through social media, expressing deep concern for the trapped miners and highlighting the states commitment to resolving the crisis swiftly. 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 everyones safety, Sarma wrote in microblogging site X. District officials, including the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, have rushed to the site to oversee rescue efforts. INS Tushil, the Indian Navys newest guided missile stealth frigate, has successfully completed its inaugural port visit to Dakar, Senegal, strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries. During the three-day visit, Captain Peter Varghese held discussions with Rear Admiral Abdou Sene, Chief of Staff of the Senegalese Navy, to explore ways to enhance naval cooperation and joint maritime security initiatives. The visit featured an exchange of subject matter expertise, which included showcasing the Indian Navys NISHAR MITRA terminal, and a joint Yoga session with the Yoga Association of Senegal, further fostering camaraderie between the two nations naval personnel. Additionally, around 150 members of the Indian diaspora and the local community were welcomed aboard, reflecting the growing presence of the Indian Navy in the region. Advertisement Before concluding the visit, INS Tushil engaged in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Senegalese naval vessel, PHM Niani. This visit underscores the importance of cooperative efforts to ensure regional security and marks a significant step towards enhancing interoperability between the Indian and Senegalese navies. Advertisement BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The General Office of the State Council has released a set of guidelines to promote the high-quality development of government investment funds, covering an appropriate scale, a reasonable layout, sound operations and risk control measures. The guidelines include 25 specific measures across seven areas, aiming to build a more scientific and efficient management system for government investment funds. Fund operations should be market-oriented, professional and based on the rule of law. The country will also coordinate the layout of funds to prevent homogeneous competition and avoid crowding out non-governmental capital. The funds will focus on major strategies, key areas and weak links where the market cannot function fully, attracting more social capital and supporting the construction of a modern industrial system. According to the guidelines, China will fully leverage the funds as long-term and patient capital for countercyclical and cross-cyclical adjustments. It will also improve the funds' level of professional and market-oriented operations by standardizing the management of fund operations, optimizing fund investment methods and fully leveraging the role of fund managers. The fund withdrawal system will be optimized through measures such as expanding exit channels, encouraging the development of private equity secondary market funds, and promoting merger and acquisition funds. The risk prevention and control system will be strengthened, and regulatory behaviors will be improved throughout the fund development process, per the guidelines. Legendary warrior Havaldar Baldev Singh (Retd), who had volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force at the age of 16 and later fought multiple wars with Pakistan, passed away at the age of 93 in his native village near the Line of Control (LOC) in Naushera, the Indian Army announced on Tuesday. Defence spokesman Lt Colonel Suneel Bartwal said that Havaldar Baldev Singh (Retd), a revered war hero, passed away Monday due to natural causes in his hometown of Naushera. Advertisement Havaldar Baldev Singh was born on September 27, 1931 in the village of Naunihal, Naushera. At the age of just 16 years, he volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force under the leadership of Brigadier Usman, Commander of the 50 Para Brigade, during the Battle of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48. Advertisement The Bal Sena, a group of local boys aged 12 to 16, served as dispatch runners for the Indian Army in the critical moments of these battles. In recognition of their bravery, the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru honoured the Bal Sainiks, presenting them with gramophones, watches, and the opportunity to join the Indian Army. Havaldar Baldev Singh enlisted in the Indian Army on November 14, 1950 and served the nation with dedication and valor for nearly three decades. His distinguished service spanned multiple wars, including the 1961, 1962, and 1965 Indo-Pak Wars. After retiring in October 1969, he was recalled during the Indo-Pak War of 1971 and served in the 11 JAT Battalion (25 Infantry Division) for an additional eight months before returning to civilian life. Throughout his career, Havaldar Baldev Singh received numerous honours for his service, including recognition by Late Prime Minister Nehru, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice-President Hamid Ansari and several other distinguished leaders. His contributions to the nation are an inspiring testament to patriotism and courage. Havaldar Baldev Singhs legacy lives on as a living legend, deeply respected for his service to the country. The last rites were held in his village of Naunihal, Naushera, today with full military honours and service protocols, Lt Colonel Bartwal said. Popular Malayalam actor Honey Rose, on Tuesday, filed a complaint against businessman Boby Chemmanur at the Ernakulam Central Police Station accusing him of making sexually inappropriate remarks that insulted womanhood. In her complaint, Rose highlighted the sexual harassment she faced during the inauguration of Chemmanurs jewellery store in Alakode, Kannur, on August 7. She detailed the difficulties she encountered on various platforms following the incident. Advertisement In an Instagram post addressing Boby Chemmanur, Honey Rose stated, There will be complaints against your associates, who seem to share your mental state. You may believe in the power of your money, but I believe in the strength of the judicial system of India. Earlier, Boby Chemmanur faced public backlash for making objectionable comments about Honey Rose during the jewelry store inauguration. Advertisement In her initial post on January 5, the actor refrained from naming him. When an individual persistently follows and tries to insult me using innuendos, people close to me ask whether I remain silent because I enjoy such statements or because I agree with everything being said. This individual invited me to certain events, but I refused to attend. In retaliation, they began deliberately showing up at events I attend and, whenever possible, publicly making disparaging remarks about me in ways that demean womanhood through media outlets, the actor had then said. Many people had posted derogatory comments below this post, forcing Honey Rose to file a complaint on January 5. The Ernakulam Central Police registered cases against 27 individuals following the actors complaint. Among those implicated, a man named Shaji from Kumbalam was arrested on Monday, January 6. The allegations include obscene and derogatory comments posted under Honey Roses social media posts, with screenshots submitted as evidence to the police. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to hold a bilateral meeting with his Maldivian counterpart, Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon, during the latters three-day visit to India starting Wednesday, January 8th. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the two ministers will engage in discussions focused on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. Key topics will include joint training, regular military exercises, defence projects, workshops, and seminars aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces, as well as the supply of defence equipment and stores. Advertisement India and the Maldives share deep-rooted spiritual, historical, linguistic, and ethnic ties. The Maldives holds a significant position in Indias Neighbourhood First policy, which seeks to promote stability and prosperity across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Both countries are vital players in maintaining the security of the region, contributing to Indias broader vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), the statement further emphasised. Advertisement In response to the global and national presence of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the Mizoram government has formed a core committee on virus HMPV. Health Minister Lalrinpuii chaired a crucial meeting with health department officials to review the states preparedness against the respiratory virus. Advertisement Aimed at fortifying the states health surveillance, the meeting led to the establishment of a core committee on HMPV, supported by Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at both state and district levels. Advertisement The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) has assured the public that HMPV, though a recurring respiratory illness seen in past years worldwide, is being closely tracked. To date, Mizoram has reported no recent cases of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) linked to HMPV. IDSP emphasised that there is no need for panic, as stringent monitoring is being carried out through a robust health surveillance network. Both government and private hospitals have been instructed to submit daily reports on ILI and SARI cases. As part of a broader strategy to mitigate respiratory illnesses, the state health department is actively implementing the Pneumonia Control Programme under the SAANS (Social Awareness and Action to Neutralize Pneumonia Successfully) campaign. The department has urged citizens to cooperate with health officials and to promptly report any suspected cases of ILI or SARI to the nearest hospitals or health centres. The collaboration between the public and health authorities is seen as vital to ensuring the successful containment of potential outbreaks. Discovered in 2001, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory pathogen that affects people of all age groups but poses higher risks to young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms often mimic other respiratory illnesses, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory distress, particularly in vulnerable populations. Globally, health experts advocate vigilant monitoring, timely diagnosis, and supportive treatment as critical to managing HMPVs impact. Dhananjay Deshmukh, the younger brother of murdered Massajog village Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh withdrew his recent petition on Tuesday, which he had filed at the Aurangabad bench of the Bombay High Court earlier, even as the Deshmukh family is scheduled to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday night in Mumbai. Originally, Deshmukh had filed a petition requesting the court to give a direction to the investigation officers in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case. Yet, sources said that Dhananja has now urged the court to keep the petition filed pending and not to hold any further hearings, saying that the investigation agency should be given more time. Advertisement Earlier, Dhananjay Deshmukh, through his lawyer advocate Shomitkumar V Salunke, had filed a petition requesting that the Chief Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs (state government) and the police chief be directed to take concrete action against all criminal networks in Beed district, their political connections as well as political interference in the district administration, besides reduction of political patronage given to organised crime. Advertisement The petition had demanded that the state government must take steps to ensure that there is no political interference or pressure in the investigation into the kidnapping and murder, considering the close relationship between Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Munde and Valmik Karad. The petition had also demanded that Munde must be immediately removed as Cabinet Minister until the investigation is completed. Speaking to media persons in Beed on Tuesday after withdrawing the petition, Dhananjay Deshmukh said that he has withdrawn his petition because he is satisfied with the investigation which is being carried out through the CID and Special Investigation Team (SIT). The alleged misuse of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) in the mineral rich Keonjhar district has come under judicial scrutiny with Orissa High Court directing States Chief Secretary to probe into the alleged irregularities. An RTI activist, Subhakanta Nayak, had drawn the attention of the High Court and sought for a high-level probe alleging that there was laundering of DMF grants by the government agencies, thereby depriving the mining-affected people of benefits of the development projects. Advertisement Keonjhar is one of the major mineral producing districts of Odisha with iron ore, manganese ore, chromite, quartzite, bauxite abundantly found in this district. Advertisement The petitioner has raised issues relating to breach of the provisions of the rules in management of the funds managed by the District Minerals Foundation, Keonjhar. Rule 18-B of the Rules contemplates the constitution of the State Level Committee by the State Government to monitor and review the functioning of the trust, headed by the Chief Secretary as the Chairman of the committee. The State level committee has the power, inter alia, to call for reports and returns from the Trust and issue directives or advisories to the trust, not inconsistent with the provisions of these Rules. Considering the nature of the allegations made in the Writ petition and documents brought on record by way of the rejoinder affidavit, we deem it proper to direct that let the allegations made therein be examined by the State Level Committee and let the nature of action, which is required in the facts and circumstances, be considered, a Division Bench of Chief Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh and Justice Savitri Ratho stated in the order. Section 9-B of the Mines and Minerals Development & Regulation Act, 1957, envisages establishment of a trust in the name of District Mineral Foundation with an object to work for the interest and benefit of persons residing in the area affected by mining related operations in such manner as may be prescribed by the State Government. As per the provisions, DMF funds are spent in developing infrastructure, providing piped water supply, building pucca roads, enhancing skill development and creating new job opportunities in the areas affected by mining operations. The funds of DMF trust come from mining companies operating in the respective districts and they pay an equivalent of 30 per cent of the royalty amount for leases granted before 2015, and 10 per cent for leases granted after that. DMF fund is to be spent on improving human development indicators through investments in high-priority areas such as healthcare, education, women and child development, improving sustainable livelihood, and income opportunities in areas adversely affected by mining. The spiritual fervour of the 813th Urs at the Dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti reached its peak on Tuesday. A visiting delegation (Jatha) of pilgrims (zayreens) from Pakistan, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and other prominent leaders offered ceremonial Chadars at the sacred tomb of Khwaja Gareeb Nawaz. The 91-member Jatha from Pakistan arrived early Tuesday morning on the Chetak Express. Under tight security, the group marched to Dargah Sharif later in the afternoon in a ceremonial procession, carrying bright red velvet Chadars while singing Qawwalis. Advertisement The Pakistani pilgrims offered the Chadar on behalf of the Government of Pakistan and prayed for peace, tranquility, and brotherhood between the two neighboring countries. They also brought special gifts and sweets from Pakistan to be offered at the Dargah Sharif. Advertisement The Chadar on behalf of Chief Minister Sharma was brought by BJP State Minority Front President Hamid Khan Mewati. A large number of BJP leaders and workers joined him in escorting the Chadar to the Dargah Sharif in a procession. After the offering, a message from the Chief Minister expressing goodwill and emphasizing peace, harmony, and brotherhood was read aloud to the public at Buland Darwaza. Chadars were also offered on behalf of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa, and former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. The Pakistani pilgrims are staying at the Central Girls School in Purani Mandi under comprehensive arrangements made by the police and district administration. The Jatha was accompanied by a protocol officer and two officials from the Pakistan High Commission in India. This years Jatha, though smaller in number, reached Ajmer a day later than planned. The delegation is scheduled to leave Ajmer for Pakistan on the afternoon of January 10. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday stressed the urgent need to reflect on the deep political divisiveness in the country. The political climate in the country is as much a challenge as climate change. We have to work to harmonise it. We cannot ignore our long-term gains. The political temperature in the country needs to be moderated by rational minds. All our stances must be dictated and purified firmly by one consideration the goodness of the nation. Because this country, home to one-sixth of humanity, is the nerve centre, cultural centre, and spiritual centre of the planet, he said. Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the Queue Complex and Jnanadeepa at Sri Kshethra Dharmasthala, Karnataka, on Tuesday, he urged leaders to rise above bitterness. Politics is not for bitterness. Politicians will have different ideologies. They must have. India is defined for its diversity because the diversity converges into unity. But why should there be political bitterness? The object of politics should not be power alone. Power is important. It should be used to serve the society and the nation, he asserted. Advertisement Referring to the VIP culture, he said it is an aberration. It is an incursion when viewed through the anvil of equality. It should have no place in society, much less in religious places. The very idea of VIP darshan militates against divinity. It should be dispensed with, he remarked. Calling for equality in religious institutions, he added, Religious institutions are emblematic of equality since there is no individual higher before the Almighty, the God. We should re-instil the idea of equality in religious institutions. I hope this Dharmasthala, being led by a luminary of all times, will serve as an example of egalitarianism and let us shun VIP culture. Advertisement Addressing concerns about law and order, Dhankhar condemned the destruction of public property and nefarious activities by rogue elements. Imagine in a country like ours, people challenge law-enforcing authorities. They challenge public order. They come to the streets if there is a court summons. Is this the way to function in a country that is Bharat? Anyone who challenges law and public order must be held accountable. How shameful it is for us. How painful it is when we see public property being destroyed, public property being set on fire. They are enemies of the nation. These people, these nefarious elements must be dealt with in an exemplary manner. They must be brought to law. Their cases must be fast-tracked. This country of 1.4 billion cannot suffer this kind of public nuisance, destruction of public property, he cautioned, adding, The world is appreciating our trains. One after the other we have trains and there are some people who stone them. They are rogue elements of society. They should not have our respect. They must be singled out, pinpointed, and strongly dealt with. On the importance of dialogue in a democracy, he stated, Dialogue and expression define democracy. If our right of expression is curtailed, or diminished, the best of an individual cannot come forward. But if we insist only on expression and do not believe in dialogue, if we believe only in expression and believe that we alone are right, we are being unfair to humanity, and to the other person. Dialogue and expression have to go hand in hand. It is the dialogue that makes us realise the importance of the other point of view. The Vice-President further emphasised the role of parliamentarians in fostering dialogue. The most authenticated platform in democracy for dialogue emanates from the people. The people elect their representatives to Parliament and legislatures. It is the bounden duty of public representatives to voice concerns of the people. They must offer solutions. They must work to realise the aspirations of the people. But if those who are obligated, constitutionally mandated to engage in dialogue but engage in disruption, then things go wrong. Emphasising the role of the Panch Pran in national transformation, he said, The foundation of our national transformation, which is taking place, can get accelerated if all individuals, all citizens commit to five pillars, which I call as Panch Pran. One, we must promote social harmony. We must believe in social harmony that transcends diversity, and converts diversity into national unity. We must believe in family life and family enlightenment by nurturing patriotic values at the grassroots with children. We must care for our environment, environment-friendly lifestyle, and environmental values. Look at our worships, they are environment-friendly. We are sure we dont have another earth to cohabit. We cant allow this existential challenge to overtake us. We must be environment-friendly. I call upon everyone in the country to believe in Swadeshi. Be vocal about the local. That will promote employment. That will save precious foreign exchange. You will believe in it. And lastly, our Constitution gives us fundamental rights. But we must focus on fundamental duties. Our duties are sacred. They take nothing much. If you go through the fundamental duties, youll be inspired, motivated to follow them, he said. Appealing to corporates, he encouraged them to actively support religious institutions through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). I call upon corporates, Indian corporates, to come forward, generously contribute out of their CSR funds for the development of infrastructure, for health, for education, the infrastructure around such religious institutions, because these religious institutions are beyond places of worship. They are the nerve centre of our culture. This will help imbibe in our youth, in our children, cultural values that make this country different from other countries, he said. Brijesh Chowta, MP, D. Veerendra Heggade, president, Sri Kshethra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project. Hemavathi V. Heggade, President, Jnanavikasa Programme, D. Surendra Kumar, Trustee of SKDRDP, D. Harshendra Kumar, Secretary, SDME society, and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion. In a major breakthrough amidst the ongoing war against drugs waged on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Commissionerate Police Amritsar has dismantled a drug trafficking cartel with the arrest of four individuals including one woman and seized 5 kg heroin from their possession According to Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, those arrested have been identified as Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi, 19, and Baljeet Kaur, 32, both resident of village Muthiaval in Tarn Taran; Maninder Singh, 34, a resident of Bhikhiwind in Tarn Taran and Harpreet Singh, 26, a resident of Lodhi Gujar village in Amritsar. Apart from recovering heroin, police teams have also impounded two motorcycles. Advertisement DGP Gaurav Yadav said that all the accused persons were in direct contact with Pakistan-based smugglers and receiving consignments of drugs from across the border. Probe revealed that consignments were being dropped with the help of drones, he added. Advertisement The DGP said that further investigations are going on to establish backward and forward linkages in this case. More arrests and recoveries are likely in coming days, he added. Sharing operation details, Commissioner of Police (CP) Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting on reliable information, a police team led by DCP Harpreet Singh Mander, ADCP Investigation Navjot Singh, and ACP Detective Kuldeep Singh, under the supervision of CIA Staff-1 in-charge Inspector Amolkdeep Singh, conducted a targeted operation and apprehended Gurpreet Singh and Baljeet Kaur in the area of Guru Ki Wadali along with 3 kg heroin on January 1 this year. It was revealed that Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi and Baljeet Kaur are related as nephew and aunt. Baljeet Kaurs husband, Balbir Singh, was arrested in 2022 under the NDPS Act by the Hindumalkot Police Station in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, where 5 kg of heroin was recovered from him. He is currently lodged in Karnpur Jail, Rajasthan. The CP said that efforts are being made to uncover the entire network of suppliers, dealers, and buyers, as well as to ascertain the total quantity of drugs purchased by the arrested individuals so far. A case under FIR No. 1, dated January 1, 2025, has been registered under Sections 21(c), 23, and 29/61/85 of the NDPS Act at Chheharta Police Station, Amritsar. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched Bharatpol, a specialised unified platform in the form of a web portal for the central investigation agencies and state police departments across the nation, developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), aimed at streamlining international assistance for investigations through INTERPOL. Speaking after launching the portal in New Delhi, Shah highlighted that the initiative by the CBI, Bharatpol will enable access to the 19 types of Interpol databases to the countrys state police and the probe agencies. Advertisement Shah underlined that the real-time interface was a key feature of the portal, and will allow the central probe agencies as well as the state police departments to get in touch with the Interpol in an easier way, and enable them to speed up their probe. Advertisement The HM said that nowadays, crime has transformed and become border less, while the Bharatpol will act as a game changer, taking the investigations to a next dimension. He further said that the CBI will however, remain the main coordination agency for Interpol in India. Shah further said,It is time we use modern technology to nab and bring to justice the criminals who absconded from India. He said that many criminals commit crimes while staying in some other country, but the time has now come, and with the new laws with a provision of trial in absentia, a trial against them could begin in their absence. He also added that, if such criminals are convicted, the process of bringing them back to the country will become easier than before. The HM also said that the Bharatpol will also help in working on the cases related to drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking and cross border terror crimes. Shah also presented Police Medals to 35 officials and personnel of the CBI, who have been awarded the Presidents Police Medal for Distinguished Service and the Union Home Ministers Medal for Excellence in Investigation. According to the probe agency, the portal allows frontline police officers to easily and promptly request international assistance from 195 Interpol member nations using standardised templates. The portal also enables rapid information dissemination, enabling the CBI as the National Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi) for INTERPOL in India, to swiftly share criminal intelligence and inputs from the member nations with all the law enforcement agencies in India. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A large drone ascended from a fishing vessel and soared across the sky, delivering fresh seafood--such as crabs and croakers--caught in the morning in Zhoushan, an archipelago eastern Chinese city, to Shanghai's kitchens across the sea within two hours. This innovative approach is significantly faster than previous methods of sea transport. The launch of this 100-kilometer drone sea-crossing route last year was made possible by the world's first hundred-kilometer-level 5G-Advanced (5G-A) network, which offers extensive coverage over the sea. As Chinese startups race to capitalize on the burgeoning low-altitude economy, the swarm of drones they produce are increasingly facing existential questions in the sky: "Who am I? Where do I come from? Where am I going?" Now, the Chinese government has taken on a new task: developing extensive infrastructure and intelligent networking systems that will unlock the vast economic potential of vertical mobility, with expectations of reaching a scale of 2 trillion yuan (278 billion U.S. dollars) by 2030. The National Development and Reform Commission, China's top economic planner, had established a new department for low-altitude economy development by the end of 2024. The department has pledged to advance infrastructure and intelligent networking system building. 5G UPDATING Telecom operators in the country, including China Unicom, China Mobile and China Telecom, are rapidly advancing toward 5G-A, an enhanced version of 5G that features improved high-precision sensing capabilities, enabling accurate detection of location and speed within its coverage area. The 5G-A network surpasses the current 5G network in terms of speed, latency, connection scale, and energy consumption. It can achieve a peak data rate of 10 gigabits per second for downloads and 1 gigabit per second for uploads, millisecond-level latency, and low-cost connectivity for the Internet of Things. "In the future, the airspace between 120 and 300 meters could see hundreds of millions of aircraft and no existing infrastructure can manage this scale," Wei Jinwu, a researcher from China Unicom, told China Electronics News. "To scale the low-altitude economy, constructing a low-altitude intelligent network is essential," he added. China has a vast network of about 4.2 million 5G base stations, and over 300 Chinese cities have begun deploying 5G-A, aiming to create the world's largest low-altitude communication network. China Mobile plans to achieve 5G-plus-BDS accuracy of 3 to 5 centimeters horizontally and 4 to 8 centimeters vertically in an airspace up to 120 meters in key cities and routes by 2025. These telecom operators are also set to integrate the country's existing 5G base stations with its homegrown BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS). These technologies are designed to help the drones navigate the sky and stay in their lanes. PILOT PROJECTS At a high-tech zone in central Chinese city of Wuhan, a demonstration area for low-altitude economy has been established. This area uses China Telecom's 5G-A network to monitor drone data in real time. The project includes 186 drones and 128 automated hangars, with 24/7 inspections covering a space of 518 square kilometers. The southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing is using real-scene 3D technology to develop maps that define suitable flight areas and routes for drones, creating an integrated digital-twin space for low-altitude airspace. "As the number of low-altitude aircraft increases, drones need to follow separate routes," said Chen Guang, a local surveying engineer. "Digital twin maps are expected to customize flight paths for short-haul transport drones in the future." Chongqing has already achieved 97 percent coverage of city-level 3D real-scene for towns and streets. To realize the full signal coverage across the sea, a team of telecom engineers in Zhoushan chose to construct 5G base stations on uninhabited islands. They devised an innovative solution by building solar energy panels to provide a sufficient power supply for the communication network. "Besides seafood, the low-altitude network is also used to transport critical supplies like emergency medicines and plasma over the sea," said Liu Yifan, a technician of China Mobile Zhoushan. The Yogi Adityanath government has announced a significant relief measure for the villagers of Uttar Pradesh under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), waiving 10 per cent community contribution for Har Ghar Nal scheme. In a significant move, the state government has decided to the community contribution for the Har Ghar Nal scheme, sparing the rural population from any financial burden. Earlier, the scheme required villagers to contribute 10 per cent of the capital cost for providing tap water connections to every household. However, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has emphasized that this expense should not burden the common people, reaffirming the governments commitment to public welfare, officials here on Tuesday said. Advertisement Notably, a total of 40,951 schemes worth Rs 1,52,521.82 crore (1.52 lakh crore) have been approved under the Jal Jeevan Mission in the state, with the Centre and state sharing Rs 71,714.68 crore each. The government has relieved villagers of the Rs 9,092.42 crore community contribution by allocating Rs 2,000 crore in the current financial years budget, benefiting 2.33 crore families. Advertisement The Mission aims to provide clean drinking water to the rural population of Uttar Pradesh. Initially, community contribution involved collecting 5 per cent of the capital cost in villages with a higher SC/ST population and 10 per cent in other villages. However, the government, considering access to clean drinking water a basic public welfare responsibility, has decided to exempt the rural population from this contribution. Currently, the community contribution is being covered by the state governments of Haryana, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal. In Rajasthan, the Chief Minister has announced that the state government will bear the cost, while in Madhya Pradesh, the matter is still under consideration. While the state government has waived the community contribution, villagers will be required to pay a nominal Rs 50 to their Gram Panchayat as a maintenance charge under the Har Ghar Nal scheme. Anurag Shrivastava, Additional Chief Secretary, Namami Gange and Water Supply Department ,said here on Tuesday that acting on CM Yogis instructions, the state government has ensured that rural residents face no financial burden for basic amenities like clean drinking water. A Rs 2,000 crore budget provision for 2024-25 reinforces its commitment to providing safe drinking water to every household,he said. Bundelkhands progress in tap water access include: Mahoba: 99.71% (1,39,621 families), Jhansi: 99.15% (2,49,100 families),Lalitpur: 99.46% (2,05,865 families)Chitrakoot: 99.83% (1,63,698 families)Banda: 99.34% (2,67,198 families)Jalaun: 95.87% (2,03,309 families) and Hamirpur: 99.32% (1,85,261 families). For Vindhya Region progress in tap water access is Mirzapur: 98.34% (3,49,292 families),Sonbhadra: 80.83% (2,53,938 families). The Centre for Research and Security Studies states that in 2024 Pakistan had a total of 1,166 terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations which resulted in 2,546 fatalities and 2,267 injuries. Among them 685 fatalities were of military personnel. According to Pakistans DG Inter Services Public Relations 383 officers and soldiers died while neutralising 925 terrorists through nearly 60,000 intelligencebased operations. This was the deadliest year for security forces and the country in terms of terrorist incidents. Attacks on Pakistans security forces have been rising since the emergence of the Taliban government in Kabul. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan alone accounted for 94 per cent of fatalities and 89 per cent of incidents. There were also a number of attacks on Chinese workers employed in the CPEC, which is also guarded by two corps of the Pakistan army, leading to anger from the Chinese leadership. It was frustration at being unable to stem these attacks that compelled Pakistan to launch its airstrikes on Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) training camps situated in the border regions of Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly been accusing the Taliban of providing sanctuaries to the TTP. The Kabul leadership, on the other hand, has been claiming that either the TTP does not exist on its soil, or that Pakistan can negotiate with it. Recently the Taliban Information Minister, Khairullah Khairkhwa, mentioned that Kabul would continue providing shelter to the TTP as they are its guests. Advertisement This varying stand has been the bone of contention between Islamabad and Kabul. As per the Taliban, Pakistans air strikes killed almost 50 civilians in Patika, all Pashtun refugees from Pakistan and mostly women and children. Pakistan later admitted to the air strikes, claiming it targeted TTP camps only while Shehbaz Sharief again sought improved ties with Kabul. He said, We have conveyed to the Afghan government that we desire good ties with them but TTP should be stopped from killing our innocent people. Pakistan claims these strikes were aimed at protecting its citizens from attacks emanating from across the border. However, for the Taliban it was a violation and an attack on their soil, to which they were compelled to respond. Advertisement In response, the Taliban moved its forces and attacked Pakistan troops and its posts along the Durand Line. While Pakistani media admitted to few casualties, the Taliban claimed many more. The truth would be somewhere in between. The Taliban has repeatedly threatened Pakistan that any attempt to militarily engage it would be catastrophic. It cites failures of Great Britain, the Soviet Union and the US in suppressing it. Recently Pakistan has begun threatening to capture the Wakhan Corridor, linking Afghanistan to China. This corridor is Afghanistans Chickens neck. This would give Pakistan direct border access with Tajikistan, thereby enabling it to give a boost to anti-Taliban groups, currently operating from Tajikistan. Pakistan has repeatedly closed its borders with Afghanistan attempting to apply pressure of trade on it. However, with India and Iran opening the Chabahar port there has been little impact. It even raised Kabuls support to the TTP in the UNSC to little effect. Pakistan is aware that in the current circumstances it would face little international criticism for cross-border strikes. The major reason is that Israel has been doing the same in recent times. Further, these actions would convince the Chinese that it is acting against groups which target them and the CPEC. It also internally covers their failure in curbing terrorism by projecting support from an external entity. As a perpetual excuse, every terrorist group acting against the Pakistani state is being billed as being supported by India. Attacks in Afghanistan indicate a possible change to this theory. Pakistan has been able to take aerial action with impunity because Afghanistan lacks resources to defend its airspace. Pakistan hesitates to attempt a ground invasion aware that it would be countered fiercely by the Taliban. It has also not attempted to capture parts of Afghanistan for the same purpose. The targeting of Pashtuns on the Afghan side will anger Pakistani Pashtuns adding to support for the TTP. A major lesson which emerges for Pakistan is that supporting terrorist groups does not pay. It backed the Taliban for decades in its fight against the US and NATO forces. It hoped that the Kabul regime would play second fiddle to it and could also be exploited to enhance terrorism in Kashmir. Islamabad had hoped that Afghans would be grateful to Pakistan, but the reverse happened. It is the most hated nation in Afghanistan, while India is the most loved. In fact, Kabul is closer to New Delhi than Islamabad. India fought for the freedom of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. It supported the state in its formative years. It has over decades backed the country financially and diplomatically and resolved all territorial disputes with it. Post the recent coup, resulting in the overthrow of the Sheikh Hasina regime, the scenario has reversed. India is no longer considered as the architect of its freedom. The anti-India wave is far higher than ever before. Dacca is now closer to Islamabad than New Delhi. While Pakistan may launch limited strikes in Afghanistan, it will continue to engage them, hoping the leadership will see the light. Its economic threats by closing the border and other means of coercion are being offset by other nations opening doors. India too continues to engage diplomatically and economically with Dhaka, including providing it food grains at discounted rates, hoping it is able to stem the anti-India tide and keep relations on an even keel. If antiIndia groups are provided bases in Bangladesh at some time, India may run out of patience and be compelled to act. The recent visit of the Indian Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, was aimed at conveying this message. This is happening because both Afghanistan and Bangladesh are dominated by Islamists, who tend to ignore global norms. While Dhaka has still not opened doors for anti-India terrorist groups on its soil, the possibility of it happening looms large. While the Taliban appear to have forgotten Pakistans backing and support, Bangladesh was thus far grateful to India only because it was ruled by descendants of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, the founder of the country. With the end of the Sheikh Hasina regime everything has changed. (The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.) At least 53 people were killed and over 60 others injured following a massive 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Dingri County in Xigaze City in the Tibet Autonomous Region on Tuesday. According to the China Earthquake Networks Centre, the epicentre of the earthquake was located at 28.5 degree North latitude and 87.45 deg East longitude, with a depth of 10 kilometres. Advertisement Following the quake, the Xizang region witnessed several aftershocks in the range of magnitude 4.9 and 4.3. Advertisement Tremors of the earthquake were also felt in Nepal and Indian states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and national capital Delhi. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences over the deaths and ordered swift rescue efforts to save lives and minimise casualties. Rescue teams have been mobilised towards the affected area and relief and rescue efforts are underway. Videos on social media showed significant damage to roads and buildings. The death toll is likely to rise further as rescue teams continue to extract people from under the debris. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, prioritise Indias commitment to citizen-centric governance. Responding to the post by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) in a post on X said, Union Minister, Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw explains how the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, prioritises Indias commitment to citizen-centric governance. The rules aim to safeguard personal data while driving growth and inclusivity. Advertisement Vaishnaw in the post on X on Monday said: The Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, reflect Indias leadership in shaping global data governance norms. Advertisement 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 Union Minister said. When we talk about the global future, then human-centric approaches should be foremost. These words by Prime Minister 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. The rules, after being finalised, would operationalise the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, bringing to life our commitment to safeguarding citizens right to personal data protection, the minister further stated. The rules are designed with simplicity and clarity, ensuring that every Indian, regardless of their technical know-how, can understand and exercise their rights, he added. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology last week released the draft rules for the DPDP Act which make it mandatory for a Data Fiduciary to ensure verifiable consent of a parent before processing any personal data of a child. The Act was passed in Parliament in August 2023 and the government is seeking feedback on the draft rules through the MyGov portal till February 18, 2025. According to the draft rules, A Data Fiduciary shall adopt appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure that verifiable consent of the parent is obtained before the processing of any personal data of a child and shall observe due diligence, for checking that the individual identifying herself as the parent is an adult who is identifiable. The identity must be established through government issued IDs or digital tokens linked to identity services like Digital lockers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus 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, Netanyahus office said in a statement on Sunday, denying previous media reports, which, citing a Hamas official, said the group agreed to release 34 hostages. Advertisement Meanwhile, Israels 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. Advertisement 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 Israels 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. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday and assessed advancement in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership over the past four years. PM Modi appreciated a letter sent by US President Joe Biden, handed over to him by Sullivan. PM Modi reaffirmed his commitment to continue to deepen close cooperation between India and the US for the benefit of the people of the two countries and for the global good, according to a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release. He also conveyed his best wishes to US President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Advertisement 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, MEA said in a release. Advertisement During the meeting, PM Modi recalled his meetings with Biden, including during his visit to the US for Quad Leaders Summit in September last year. MEA said, 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 Bidens contributions towards strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, which leaves an enduring legacy. PM Modi also took to X to share details regarding his meeting with US NSA Sullivan. PM Modi said that he looked forward to building upon the momentum in ties between the two nations for the benefit of people and global good. In a post shared on X, PM Modi wrote, 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. During his two-day visit to India, US NSA met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi on Monday. During the meeting, the two sides held discussions on enhancing bilateral, regional and global cooperation. Highlighting the significance of their discussions, Jaishankar acknowledged Sullivans personal contribution to 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 contribution to forging a closer and stronger India-US partnership. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also met his counterpart Jake Sullivan on Monday. The two officials reviewed progress in their high-level dialogue including in diverse fields such as defence, cyber and maritime security. Justifying its recent airstrikes in Afghanistans Paktika province, the Pakistan government on Monday stated that it would carry out more such attacks inside the Afghan territory to target Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts, if necessary. We have the legal right to continue these operations if Afghan soil is used to attack Pakistan, Rana Sanaullah, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on political affairs, was quoted as saying by the local media on Monday. Advertisement 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 Taliban regime in the war-torn country. Advertisement 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. Sanaullahs statement came at a time when Islamabad has intensified its counter-terrorism operations against the TTP and other anti-state militant groups while accusing Afghan Taliban for providing a safe haven to insurgents and supporting them in their terror activities inside Pakistan. The comment is also being seen as a response to repeated threats issued by various Taliban leaders against Pakistan since the airstrikes. 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, calling the Pakistani act not only a violation of Afghanistans territorial sovereignty, but also one which can act as a trigger for potential major conflict between the two countries. Over the weekend, Afghanistans Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai had also warned that Afghanistan has fighters who can act like an atomic bomb. Islamabad should not test the patience of its western neighbour. Pakistan should not exploit the patience of the Afghanistan government. We have fighters with a capacity equivalent to an atomic bomb. If we release just five sons of Mahmud Ghaznavi, Babur and Ahmad Shah Abdali, from this border towards you (Pakistan), then not even the Indian Ocean will be able to stop them, said Stanikzai while addressing a graduation ceremony in Kabul on Saturday. Islamabad insists that it is the Afghan Taliban which is lending support to TTP, including all the funding needed to operate against Pakistan, and it was Kabuls failure to take action against them that had prompted the airstrikes. The TTP, meanwhile, continues to target military and security installations in Pakistan and is now looking to extend its radius of targeted attacks. In a statement issued on Sunday, the militant group stated that it will now extend its targeted attacks to the Pakistani militarys business entities, including housing societies, banks, fertilizer companies, cement companies and the ordnance factories spread across the country. The TTP will solely be targeting the security forces. As everyone knows that the Pakistan Army relies heavily on its different sources of businesses, because of which it has occupied the whole country for 70 years. It is in this context that TTP has decided that, from now on, attacks will also be carried out on all military-owned and military-led businesses, read the TTP statement. The TTP also gave a three-month deadline to all the companies associated with Pakistans military establishment, warning shareholders of major consequences. The statement specifically mentioned military-led businesses in the country, including National Logistics Cell, Frontier Works Organisation, Fauji Cement, Askari Bank, Fauji Fertilizer Company, Askari Cement, Pakistan Ordinance Factory, Fauji Foundation, Fauji Foods, Askari Fuels and Defence Housing Authority. All companies holding shares with the military-led companies should withdraw within three months. All employees working in military-led companies are also given a deadline of three months to leave their jobs and find work elsewhere. All shops, which have kept products of military-led companies, have been given two months to remove them and stop selling them in the future, the TTP said. If, after two months, such products are still kept in shops, then our workers will be directed to burn them all or remove them by all means. Similarly, vehicles being used to transport military-led products will also be burnt, the statement added. The TTP has also warned political parties, including the ruling party Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) to stop referring to TTP as fitna al khawarij, warning them of attacks if they do not stop doing the same. 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. 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 cant 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. Advertisement 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. 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. 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. Over the holidays, I have also had a chance to reflect and to have long talks with my family about our future. Advertisement 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 leaderLast 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 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 Canadas 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 cant 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 Polliveres 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. US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday used Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus announcement of his plan to step down to reiterate his stance that Canada becomes the 51st state of the US. In a post shared on the social media platform Truth Social, he said that Trudeau resigned as he knew that US can no longer suffer the massive trade deficits and subsidies that Canada requires to stay afloat. Trump noted that Canada will have no tarriffs, taxes will go down and they would be secure from the threat of Russian and Chinese ships if they merge with the US. 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!!!, he posted on Truth Social. Advertisement Trumps statement came after 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 choses next leader. If I have to fight internal battles I cant 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. 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, 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 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 leaderLast 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. Liberal Party is an important institution in our country. We were elected for 3rd time in 2021 to advance Canadas 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 it is clear I cant be that candidate due to internal battles, he said. Speaking about Canadas former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, Trudeau said that he expected her to continue as the Deputy Prime Minister. Chrystia (Freeland) has been a political partner for many years. I had hoped 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 Polliveres vision is not right for this country, he said. This photo taken on Jan. 7, 2025 shows a press conference held by the city of Xigaze on the disaster relief work after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 p.m. Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County on Tuesday morning. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan) LHASA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 p.m. Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Tuesday morning. The earthquake struck at 9:05 a.m. (Beijing Time), with the epicenter located in Tsogo Township, Dingri County, in the city of Xigaze. There are 27 villages and approximately 6,900 people within a 20-km radius of the epicenter. Official data shows that Dingri County has a population of over 61,000. More than 3,400 rescuers and over 340 medical workers have been sent to the quake-hit area, according to a press conference on the earthquake. According to the weather forecast, Dingri will experience mostly sunny weather over the next three days, with the minimum temperature ranging between minus 18 and minus 14 degrees Celsius. China's central authorities have dispatched some 22,000 disaster relief items to the quake-hit region, including cotton tents, winter coats, quilts and folding beds, together with special relief materials for high-altitude and frigid areas. The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Emergency Management said they allocated 100 million yuan (about 13.9 million U.S. dollars) to support disaster relief efforts in Xizang. The National Development and Reform Commission also allocated 100 million yuan to support post-disaster emergency recovery. The Red Cross Society of China has initiated an emergency response to send 4,600 items of relief supplies to the quake-affected areas, including cotton tents, quilts, insulated jackets and folding beds. The county of Dingri lies on the northern slope of the Himalayas, bordering Nepal to the south. With an average altitude of 4,500 meters, it is home to the northern base camp of Mount Qomolangma, the world's highest peak. The Mount Qomolangma scenic area has been temporarily closed, and tourists and staff members are in a safe condition, according to the Dingri Culture and Tourism Bureau. Wang Weimin, an associate research fellow at the Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, told Xinhua that aftershocks may last for a long time in the surrounding area. This photo taken on Jan. 7, 2025 shows a press conference held by the city of Xigaze on the disaster relief work after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 p.m. Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County on Tuesday morning. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan) I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol No more of Christmas in your heart. You can just go to one of the Orthodox Christian Christmas celebrations. While most Christmas trees have retreated to cardboard boxes waiting to make a year-end comeback in 2025, all lights of the Nativity cheer refused to go back into hibernation until. January 7 marks an alternate Christmas tradition, namely the Orthodox Christmas, and a very strong one at that. Orthodox Christmas through the looking glass? Not so much Approximately 12 per cent of Christians celebrate the birth of Christ on January 7. But why is there a 13-day gulf between the two Christmases? Props to the different calendars. Christianity was initially allegiant to the calendar revised by Roman Emperor Julius Caesar in 46 BC. However, the Julian Calendar had an error in the form of an overestimation of the solar year and it soon had a fallout with the solar calendar. Thus, the Julian calendar gave way to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, authorised by Pope Gregory XIII. The Roman Catholic countries were quick to adopt the new calendar, followed by the United Kingdom and the churches of Greece, America and others. The Orthodox churches of Russia, Ukraine, Serbia, Jerusalem, Georgia, and the Coptic Church of Egypt refused to do away with the old calendar, which by 1923, was 13 days behind the new one; Christmas thereby ensuing 13 days after December 25. This interestingly applies to Easter as well, celebrated on April 24, a week after April 17. Orthodox Christmas is no regional variation, for around 260 million Orthodox Christians, with the largest of the sect belonging to Russia, estimated at over 90 million. One time for tradition, two times for Christmas cheer The followers of Orthodox traditions inaugurate the spirit of Christmas with a 40-day fast, also called The Holy Nativity Fast, leading up to Christmas, abstaining from meat, dairy, fish, wine, and olive oil. National Geographic writes, After a vigil on Christmas Eve, Christmas itself is celebrated as one of the Churchs 12 Great Feasts, with churchgoing and celebration at home. The traditional meal served on Christmas Eve is a 12-course feast, symbolic of Christs apostles, featuring vegetable stew, bread, baked apples, and cabbage soup. In Coptic Orthodox traditions, it includes fattah, rice, a bread and meat dish, and wara einab (vine leaves). In Russia, the star of the feast is kutya (wheat and rice porridge dish), and according to NatGeo, the dish is thrown up to the ceiling; if it sticks, tradition goes, you will have good luck. Ethiopian Orthodox Christians celebrate with wat while Serbian Orthodoxy burns young oak or a branch. In Kazakhstan, the feast is marked with the nutritious sochivo, a dish in which boiled grains (wheat for example) are mixed with honey, nuts, poppy seeds, and dried fruits. The families share sweet treats with their neighbours and families and also set the tables with white tablecloth to reminisce the cloth that baby Jesus was swaddled in. In Georgia, Romania and Greece, the celebrations include the procession, dubbed Alilo, where the people (including clergymen) walk through the streets in religious costumes singing carols. The politics of Orthodox Christmas and salvation Politics and religion do not mix. They are inherently different activities. Religion seeks salvation, politics seeks power. Well, this quote is a lost ball in the high weeds, for politics and religion are no longer seeking entirely different things. If anything, the White Mans Burden and Three Cs of Colonialism say otherwise. The patriarch of Russias Orthodox church only drew himself closer to the patriarch of Kremlin, by choosing to make his views on politics known this Christmas. The Russian Orthodox Church also faced the heat for its decision to form the patriarchate Exarchate of Africa. In 2023, Ukraine officially shifted their Christmas to December 25 as a strong message to Kremlin and the Russian Orthodox church. The Orthodox church of Ukraine allowed devotees to celebrate the birth of their saviour on December 25 and The Guardian also called the move a bigger national process of dismantling the symbols of Russia, the Soviet Union and communism. The situation in Tbilisi, Georgia is no less political, with thousands of pro-European demonstrators assembled before the Parliament to convey the messages of unity and political expression through the celebration of Orthodox Christmas. Christmas, despite the variations in traditions and dates, carries the heavy-mantle of hope for so many communities caught in the bloody-schism of war and wartime politics and crises. Christmas is built upon a beautiful and intentional paradox; that the birth of the homeless should be celebrated in every home, wrote G.K. Chesterton in Brave New Family and it does seem true today, in a painful, ironic sense. A Ukrainian commander of the special forces unit "Group 13", which downed two Russian Mi-8 choppers last week, has revealed the details of the operation carried out using a Magura V5 naval drone. It was the first time that air targets were destroyed by a drone designed for the sea. The commander, who goes by the call sign "Thirteenth", said the mission was special as they were on a deliberate hunt for air targets. "We were specifically hunting for air targets. It was a planned operation, and we were ready to face the enemy head-on," Kyiv Post quoted the commander. He added that the action happened near Tarkhankut on the Black Sea where Russian helicopters were on patrol. The choppers were moving at a high speed but Magura V5 managed to zero in on the first Mi-8 with precision. It took just one hit for the sea drone to down the Mi-8. "It was a direct hit. They didnt even realize what was happening and deployed air traps in confusion," he said. Another hit followed and Magura V5 successfully downed the second chopper. The third one, however, managed to fly back to the Russian base with damages. The Ukrainian Military Intelligence said the drones launched multiple R-73 SeaDragon missiles, which is a Soviet-era air-to-air missile modified by Ukraine for maritime use. The decades-old, short-range missile uses infrared homing technology. The operation had no existing playbook and involved some innovative tactics. The Commander said they have managed to "triple what they could do" and it will only get better with time. He added that they would soon be able to target aeroplanes. Ukraine had also published a radio intercept containing audio from one of the Mi-8 pilots after the Russian helicopter was hit. "There was a water launch," the pilot was heard saying in the recording. Besides Magura V5, Ukraine also has other sea drones, like the Sea Baby platform in service with the Security Service of Ukraine. It has been over a month after what was supposed to be a happy evening of a family turned into a dark and heartbreaking event. On December 4, Bhaskar and Revathi, their son Sri Tej and young daughter, were waiting outside Hyderabads Sandhya Theatre for the pre-release of Allu Arjuns highly anticipated Pushpa 2: The Rule, but the event quickly turned into a stampede triggered by Arjuns surprise arrival, claiming the life of Revathi, 39, and critically injuring her son. ALSO READ | 'Pushpa 2' stampede: Allu Arjun's surprise arrival causes chaos, woman dies during Hyderabad fan show Now, on the morning of January 7, Arjun visited the KIMS Hospital where Sri Tej is still admitted. The actor visited, accompanied by his team, to provide support to the family during their difficult time. Telangana State Film Development Corporation (FDC) Chairman Dil Raju was also present. VIDEO | Hyderabad: Actor Allu Arjun arrives at KIMS Hospital to meet Sritej, who was injured in Sandhya theater stampede incident. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/X0fvUh0qXw Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 7, 2025 The SHO of Ramgopalpet Police Station has issued a notice to the actor to keep the news of his visit confidential so as to not draw any unnecessary crowds that cause disruption to the hospital. Arjun had intentions to visit Sri Tej earlier but his team advised otherwise due to ongoing legal proceedings. However, Arjuns father, Allu Aravind had the family at the hospital two weeks after the incident. Sri Tej medical situation A video had emerged on X (formerly Twitter) right after the stampede showing CPR being performed on an unconscious Sri Tej. He was quickly transferred to the hospital where his condition was critical. ALSO READ | 'Pushpa 2' stampede: Injured boy, 8, continues to be on ventilator after suffering brain damages On December 24, the boy showed signs of improvement, reportedly responding for the first time after being unresponsive for 20 days. "The child responded after 20 days. He is responding today. Allu Arjun and the Telangana government are supporting us," his father Bhaskar said. Allu Arjuns arrest On December 13, Arjun was arrested and named as the 11th accused in the stampede case. He was released the next day on interim bail and asked to appear in court for his bail hearing on a later date. On January 3, the actor was granted regular bail. ALSO READ | Sandhya theatre stampede case: Pushpa-2 actor Allu Arjun granted regular bail SEOUL, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The chief of South Korea's anti-corruption investigative agency on Tuesday apologized for the failure last week to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol over his short-lived martial law imposition. Oh Dong-woon, head of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), said in a parliamentary session of the legislation and judiciary committee that he "sincerely apologizes" to people for the botched attempt to execute the arrest warrant against Yoon, which was blocked by the presidential security service. Oh stressed that the bungled execution of the warrant, legitimately issued by the judiciary, undermined the rule of law, vowing to make best efforts to make thorough preparations and proceed with the warrant without setbacks. The CIO formed a joint investigation unit with the National Office of Investigation (NOI) and the defense ministry's investigative headquarters to investigate Yoon's martial law imposition. The unit requested the Seoul Western District Court to extend the arrest warrant against Yoon on Monday after failing to detain Yoon last Friday. 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 which expired at midnight 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. Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has taken significant steps to enhance security at his Mumbai abode by installing high-resolution CCTV cameras and barricading his Galaxy Apartment balcony with bulletproof glass. This action comes after shots were fired at the actor's house last April, causing concern for his familys safety, who reside a floor above him. #WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Bulletproof glass installed in the balcony of actor Salman Khan's residence - Galaxy Apartment pic.twitter.com/x6BAvPOGyW ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 The Bajrangi Bhaijaan actor has been travelling with beefed-up security since the death of his close friend and politician Baba Siddique, who was assassinated by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The gang has had a target on Khans back ever since the Blackbuck shooting case in 1998. Blackbuck is considered a sacred animal in the Bishnoi community. ALSO READ | What led to Baba Siddiques murder? The gang has not held back on threatening the actor ever since. Lawrence Bishnois younger brother, Anmol Bishnoi, took responsibility for the April shooting of the actors residence. He is also the key accused in the death of Baba Siddique. He has been detained in the US. Mumbai police has claimed in its chargesheet that Khans close ties with the politician are what led to his assassination. ALSO READ | Back-to-back threats to Salman Khan keep Mumbai Police on its toes Reportedly, the security on the set of Bigg Boss, where Khan serves as a host, has also ramped up. Khan is currently gearing up for the release of his new film Sikandar, scheduled to hit the big screens on Eid. In a dreadful case of animal cruelty, 32 dogs, with their mouths and legs tied, were thrown off a 40-foot bridge in Telangana. The incident has sparked outrage among citizens and animal lovers alike and they demanded stern action against miscreants. Telangana police have registered a case and a probe is underway. The incident came to light on January 4, When 'Citizens for Animals', an animal welfare organization received an unknown message regarding the tragic cries near the site in Eddumailaram Village, Sangareddy in Telangana. The rescuers described it as one of the most horrific and disturbing scenes theyve ever witnessed and the injured dogs were crying and moaning. As per reports, the animals were thrown tied up to prevent them from saving themselves. According to reports, maggots had infested many of the carcasses that were floating on the still water. The surviving dogs were severely shivering from being in the water for so long. Prithvi Paneru, one of the citizens who volunteered to rescue, said it was nothing less than a nightmare. The welfare organization reached out to People for Animals (PFA) and Animal Warriors Conservation Society (AWCS) for help with the rescue. The injured dogs were immediately taken to the PFA shelter in Nagole, Hyderabad. The animals were given immediate medical care, however, the canines are still in critical condition. This atrocious crime has infuriated the animal lovers' community, and they demanded harsher legislation to prevent cruelty against animals. The penalty for animal cruelty in India is ridiculously low, with only up to 50 rupees. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, has not been revised in over 60 years. Animal cruelty has reached an alarming level so we urge the authorities to prioritize this case the same way they would deal with a case if human lives were at stake stated Prithvi. Telangana police have sent the animal carcasses for autopsy. Police are probing to identify the culprits who committed the cruelty. The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu bail in a 2013 sexual assault case on medical grounds. Asaram has been granted bail till March 31. Hearing the case, the top court granted the plea considering his health condition. Granting the bail, a bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal restricted the godman from meeting followers after release. The apex court has also sought the Gujarat governments response on suspending his punishment of life imprisonment in a 2013 rape case. Gandhinagar court sentenced him to life in the rape case in 2023. The Gujarat High Court last year rejected his plea seeking suspension of sentence. The apex court has also directed the deployment of security personnel during the bail period. A Gujarat court in 2023 sentenced the self-styled godman to life in 2023 for raping a girl multiple times at his ashram in the state. Asaram, currently lodged in Jodhpur jail, is serving sentence for allegedly raping a woman minor disciple at his ashram. The Supreme Courts interim bail for Asaram comes within days after he returned to the Jodhpur jail after getting 17-day parole. Asaram was granted parole on December 18 last year, for 17 days, to undergo medical treatment. Vitul Kumar, the acting Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force has reached Chattisgarh in the wake of Naxals deadly attack against security forces on Monday. Chattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has also started to Bijapur to pay respects to the martyred soldiers. Kumar reached from Delhi on Tuesday and he is expected to review anti-Naxal operations in the region. The acting director general of CRPF is expected to pay respects to the District Reserve Guard jawans killed in the attack, visit the blast site and review anti-Naxal operations in the region. Kumar will also visit CRPF camps in Bastar region and chair a review meeting. #WATCH | Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai leaves from Raipur for Dantewada where 8 DRG jawans and their driver, lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by naxals through an IED blast, in Bijapur, yesterday. pic.twitter.com/bOqW3o1jYY ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Perhaps their deadliest strike in recent times, Naxals blew up a vehicle of the security forces near Ambeli village in Bastar on Monday afternoon. As many as eight security personnel and a driver were killed in the attack. According to police, 60-70 kg strong IED was used to blast the vehicle. #WATCH | Chhattisgarh | Visuals from the spot where 8 Dantewada DRG jawans and their driver, lost their lives after their vehicle was blown up by naxals through an IED blast, in Bijapur. They were returning after a joint operation of Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur. pic.twitter.com/b874uA3ocU ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 Chhattisgarh police said among the slain jawans, four were from DRG and four from Bastar Fighters, both units of state police. The attack happened around 70km away from the Bijapur district headquarters. Security forces have been conducting anti-Naxal operations in the Bastar range for the past few days. Five Naxals were killed in the operation in Dantewada, Narayanpur and Bijapur areas under Bastar police range. Hours before the deadly strike, CRPF recovered and defused an IED weighing about 20-22 kg in the same district. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sai has started to Bijapur in a helicopter to pay respects to the martyred soldiers. On Monday, the chief minister condemned the attack and called it a cowardly act. 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, Sai tweeted. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled the deaths and said their sacrifice wont go in vain. 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 asserted. Ahead of the upcoming Ganga Sagar Mela, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday inaugurated 30 projects worth Rs 153 crore. She also laid the foundation for 19 additional projects, with a combined cost of Rs 61 crore, aimed at improving the lives of residents in Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas and neighbouring remote islands in the district. Among the projects inaugurated by the chief minister, who was at Sagar on a two-day trip to oversee the preparation of the upcoming fair, were a host of new ferry services connecting the islands, upgrades to bus terminuses and jetties, new Anganwadi centres, and roads. Additionally, three new bridges were announced to enhance connectivity. Transportation to Sagar Island, the venue for the Ganga Sagar Mela, has been bolstered with a new helicopter service from Kolkata. Dredging of the Muri Ganga River has been completed to allow ferry operations for 20 hours a day, resolving earlier disruptions caused by low tide. During the Ganga Sagar Mela, scheduled from January 8 to 17, a fleet of 32 vessels, 9 barge vessels, and 100 launch ships will be operational, alongside 2,250 government and 250 private buses. CM Banerjee announced several measures to benefit pilgrims from across the country and those managing the event. "Anyone visiting Ganga Sagar or working here, including journalists, will be eligible for health insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh in case of an accident during the mela," she stated. Comprehensive healthcare arrangements have been made, with 515 hospital beds, including ICU beds, set aside for the event. Doctors, nurses, and paramedics will provide 24/7 medical support. Additionally, 100 ambulances, four water ambulances, and one air ambulance have been readied, with provisions for green corridors to facilitate the swift transport of critical patients. Once again, the West Bengal chief minister expressed hope that Ganga Sagar Mela would one day be recognised as a national event like the Kumbha Mela. The Centre pays the entire amount for Kumba Mela. But West Bengal always gets deprived, she said. The death of a 29-year-old student inside the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru campus has sparked a row over caste discrimination. While Bengaluru police believe suicide is unlikely, they are awaiting the autopsy report to ascertain the cause of death. Nilay Kailashbhai Patel, a student of the premier institution was found dead on the campus on Sunday. Though he was rushed to nearby hospital, doctors pronounced him dead. As per a preliminary probe, police believe Patel died due to an accidental fall from the second floor of the hostel building. According to police, Patel hails from Surat and he celebrated his 29th birthday with his friends on Saturday. Patel had reportedly returned to his room after cutting cake in his friend's room a little after midnight and was found lying in the courtyard lawn of the hostel at about 6.30am on Sunday, police said. He was spotted by the security personnel and was immediately rushed to the hospital where he was declared brought dead, police said. Bengaluru police have registered a case of unnatural death and they are investigating. However, the death has sparked an online debate on caste-based discrimination. The All India OBC Students Association (AIOBCSA) has asked for clarification from IIM-B. "We demand @iimb_official to provide clarity on this critical issue. The institution lacks adequate mechanisms to address the concerns of marginalised communities, a matter we have repeatedly highlighted," it tweeted. The organisation also sought the Union education ministrys intervention to prevent student suicides. The dates for the first big election battle of 2025 were announced today, as the Election Commission of India declared that the Delhi Assembly polls will be held on February 2, 2025. The counting will take place on February 8. The election will be held in a single phase, Chief Election Commissioner of India Rajiv Kumar said. The last date for filing nominations is January 17, 2025, while the last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 20. #DelhiDecides Schedule for Single Phase #DelhiElections2025 & Bye-Elections. Date of Poll : 05-02-2025 Date of Counting : 08-02-2025#ECI Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) January 7, 2025 There are 1.55 crore voters in Delhi, and 13,033 polling booths will be set up, the CEC said. Bypolls to two assembly constituenciesMilkipur in Uttar Pradesh and Erode in Tamil Naduwill follow the same schedule. ALSO READ: Kejriwal alleges behind-the-scenes alliance between Congress, BJP The high-stakes fight will see the Aam Aadmi Party, the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress battling it out for the 70 seats. The AAP has been in power in the national capital since 2015. ALSO READ: BJP, AAP lock horns as campaign heat intensifies In the last assembly elections in 2020, the AAP won a staggering 62 seats, while the BJP bagged the remaining eight, with the Congress drawing a blank. ALSO READ: Congress war room set for Delhi Assembly elections. What's the party's strategy? Kumar also defended the election process manipulation and the EVMs, amid allegations of manipulation. "Canards being spread about wrongful additions or deletions in electoral rolls to target particular groups. Right to question is inherent in democracy, it's our duty to clear all doubts," he said. Kumar assured all "due process will be followed rigorously in deletions or additions to voter lists", and that will be no room for any manipulation. "Political parties are involved at each and every stage of voter list preparation with full disclosure and opportunity to object," he added. ALSO READ: CM Atishi alleges 'voter scam' in New Delhi constituency Saying that courts have ruled on 42 occasions that EVMs are not hackable, Kumar said that the allegations of tampering are totally baseless. No Trojan Horse or virus can be introduced in the EVMs. The CEC also said that it is "impossible" to change voter turnout data and so, the allegations on the sudden jump in poll percentage post 5pm is misconceived. The Telangana High Court on Tuesday refused to quash FIR registered against Bharat Rashtra Samiti working president K.T. Rama Rao in connection with conduct of Formula E race in the state. The Court also removed interim protection granted to the former minister from arrest. The Telangana High Court refused to grant relief to Rama Rao and dismissed his plea seeking to quash the FIR registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau against him over alleged irregularities in conducting Formula E race. Hearing the case, Justice K. Lakshman dismissed the petition saying it was not the right time to grant the relief to former municipal administration minister. The bench had reserved its judgment after hearing arguments from both sides on December 31. The Court had also granted interim protection from arrest until the pronouncement of judgment for Rao. The ACB in the state registered a case against Rama Rao, son of former chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, on December 19, over alleged payments to conduct the Formula E race in 2023. Allegedly, some of the payments were made using foreign currency without proper approvals. 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. The newly formed Congress government cancelled the race which was scheduled to be held in February this year. The Enforcement Directorate is also probing alleged irregularities in the case. Besides Rao, senior IAS officer Arvind Kumar and retired bureaucrat B.L.N. Reddy are named as accused in the case. The development comes as the ACB has summoned Rao for questioning on January 9. A lawyers' forum has demanded action against the organisers of a weapons training camp, reportedly, conducted by Sri Rama Sena, a right-wing organisation, in Bagalkot district. In its complaint to the Karnataka DGP, the All-India Lawyers Association for Justice (AILAJ) demanded legal action citing media reports of the SRS imparting a six-day fire arms training to 186 participants in Todalbagi village under Savalagi police station limits in Bagalkot district. "Such training camps have been held in the past by the right-wing organisations that have been disrupting peace and communal harmony through mobile lynching, moral policing and intimidation and violence against minorities, Dalits and progressive thinkers including the murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh, scholar M.M. Kalburgi and Arbaaz Mulla (Belagavi)," said Avani Chokshi, in the letter on behalf of the state committee of AILAJ. Why is the Congress govt silent while the Hindutva extremist group Sri Ram Sene openly conducts training with air guns and lathis in #Jamkhandi, Bagalkot? Meanwhile, those showing solidarity with Palestine are being booked. This blatant double standard raises serious questions. pic.twitter.com/rdJS43meIc Mohammed Wajid Ahmed (@Wajid741122) January 5, 2025 Raising objection to the police's failing to file a suo motu case, AILAJ claimed these camps were aimed towards the "militarisation" of the Hindu youth who had been "radicalised" by Hindutva ideology. "Allowing this to go unpunished amounts to normalising the belief that violent acts in furtherance of this ideology, and obviously aimed at Dalits, Muslims and Christians, in furtherance of Hindutva is perfectly legitimate and can be done with impunity in the state and disrupt peace in the future," stated Chokshi adding that the police had failed to register a complaint in Bagalkot was swift in booking activists protesting peacefully for the cause of Palestine. Demanding the police to register criminal cases against both the participants and the organisers under Section 25 and 27 of the Arms Act, 1959 and Section 61 and 189 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2024, the lawyers urged the police to keep tabs "extremist" and "unconstitutional" forces. The Supreme Court on Tuesday deferred hearing on key cases related to West Bengal, including on the petition challenging Calcutta High Courts order cancelling recruitment of over 23,000 teaching and non-teaching staff related to the West Bengal School Service Commission recruitment scam. The apex court rescheduled the hearing concerning the Calcutta High Court's decision to cancel the appointments of over 23,000 teaching and non-teaching staff implicated in the alleged West SSC recruitment scam. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and comprising Justices Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan listed the case for hearing at 2pm on January 15. The bench directed all parties in the case to submit affidavits by that day. Meanwhile, the Court also asked the CBI to submit its report by the day. The Calcutta High Court in April last year decided to cancel the entire recruitment panel formed through the 2016 State Level Selection Test (SLST) for the state government-sponsored and aided schools in West Bengal, leading to multiple challenges at the Supreme Court. A division bench of Justices Debangsu Basak and Shabbar Rashidi at the High Court found that the state government failed to distinguish between legitimate appointees and individuals who obtained jobs through unlawful means. The apex court also deferred the hearing on the West Bengal governments plea challenging the Calcutta High Courts ruling which revoked the Other Backward Class (OBC) status of 77 communities last year. The division bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and Augustine George Masih scheduled the case for a final hearing on January 28 and 29. In May last year, a division bench of Calcutta High Court observed that the West Bengal government had acted in undue haste and no proper enquiry was conducted while classifying 77 classes as OBCs. While hearing a plea challenging certain provisions of the West Bengal Backward Classes (Other than Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) (Reservation of Vacancies in Services and Posts) Act, 2012, the High Court said that the state had practised protective discrimination in deviation to the constitutional norms. The high court noted that the state provided no data to demonstrate inadequate representation of the concerned communities in the West Bengal government. Consequently, there was no opportunity for objections to be raised against such data. In August last year, a division bench headed by former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud declined to stay the High Courts order and instructed the West Bengal government to clarify whether it had consulted the State Backward Commission and conducted a survey to assess the social and educational backwardness of the 77 communities in question. SYDNEY, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Australian lifeguards have issued a safety warning after a spate of drownings across the country in the beginning of the summer. According to data from Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS), Australia's peak water safety, swimming and lifeguard education organization, 44 people have drowned in the country since the start of summer on Dec. 1. It equaled the 44 drowning deaths in the same period in 2023-24 and was slightly above the five-year average for the period of 41 drowning deaths. Of the 44 drowning deaths, 13 occurred in the period between Christmas Day on Dec. 25 and New Year's Day on Jan. 1. William Koon, the national manager of drowning prevention strategy at the RLSS, said on Tuesday that swimming skills have decreased in Australia due to financial barriers and lower availability and accessibility of local swimming pools. He told News Corp Australia newspapers that a new national strategy was needed to give Australian children the skills they need to survive in the water. The commander of the RLSS branch in the state of Victoria, Kane Treloar, urged everyone planning on going swimming during the rest of the summer to do so at beaches patrolled by lifeguards and to take care of each other. At least five drowning victims since Dec. 1 were younger than 18, according to the RLSS. Of the accidents, 12 occurred in Australia's most populous state of New South Wales and 11 were in Queensland. Nine people, including five from one family, have died from asphyxiation in Jammu and Kashmir in the past six days. Despite repeated warnings from the Health Department about the dangers of using charcoal or gas heaters indoors, such incidents continue every winter. On January 1, three young men from JammuMukesh Singh, Ashutosh Singh, and Sunny Choudharywere found dead in a guesthouse in Bhaderwah, Doda district. They had travelled to celebrate New Year, and a charcoal heater found in their room suggests carbon monoxide poisoning. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the case. #WATCH | Cold waves continue in Jammu & Kashmir's winter capital, Srinagar, as winter's chill intensifies in Northern India Visuals from Dal Lake pic.twitter.com/GxMaqPhXMw ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 A woman and her son in Gudder, Kulgam, were found unconscious due to charcoal fumes on January 2. The son died, while the mother, Fameeda Akhter, remains in critical condition. On January 5, a family of five, including three young children, was found dead in their rented home in Sheikh Mohalla Pandrathan, Srinagar. The family, originally from Gingal, Uri in Baramulla, had been using an electric blower for heating. The victims were Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (38), his wife Saleema (32), and their children Areeb (3), Hamza (18 months), and their one-month-old baby. In response, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Soura issued an advisory warning about carbon monoxide poisoning. The advisory stressed that carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless and tasteless, making it extremely dangerous in poorly ventilated areas. Artificial Intelligence (AI) focuses on developing machine intelligence to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. The technology enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, problem solving, comprehension and decision making, among others. Here is a look at some of the top universities in the world where one can learn AI. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) MIT's research instituteComputer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratorywhich was formed in 2003, does research in AI, generative AI and robotics. Stanford University The Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (SAIL) has been the hub of AI research, since it was founded in 1963. The varsity also has virtual AI courses. Carnegie Mellon University The varsity is hailed as the birthplace of AI, thanks to its professors Herbert Simon and Allen Newell. In 2023, an Artificial Intelligence Security Incident Response Team (AISIRT) was set up to study and respond to AI and ML threats. Harvard University Harvard University offers courses on machine learning, computational thinking and data science, along with introductory courses on AI. It has a free programme, tooHarvard CS50's Introduction to AI with Python. In 2023, the varsity introduced an AI professor. University of Oxford It provides several undergraduate, graduate and AI programmes, along with postgraduate courses in AI and Machine Learning. University of California - Berkeley It offers comprehensive courses in AI and machine learning. UC Berkeley founded The Center for Human-Compatible Artificial Intelligence in 2016 to focus on AI safety research. ETH Zurich One of the worlds best universities in science and technology, ETH Zurich is known for its research and innovations. The Department of Computer Science and Institute for Machine Learning offers AI programmes. The Seattle Police Department has fired from service Kevin Dave, the police officer who struck Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula with his patrol car in 2023. A statement from the department said Dave had been fired after the investigation revealed he violated four department policies, including the use of emergency lights for an emergency response and being responsible for safely operating a patrol vehicle. Seattle police Chief Sue Rahr, in an email sent to employees, said though Dave did not intend to hurt anyone, it does not mitigate the aftermath of his poor decision, according to The Seattle Times. "I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible," Rahr wrote. "However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of a human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department." Though the authorities said in February 2024 that he wouldn't be prosecuted because there was no evidence he was impaired or driving recklessly when he mowed down Kandula. However, his employment hung in the balance as the Seattle Office of Police Accountability conducted a probe into the accident that occurred on Jan. 23, 2023. Kandula, a 23-year-old Northeastern University graduate student, hailed from Andhra Pradesh in India. She was crossing the street in Seattle when the patrol car driven by Dave knocked her down. The car was speeding at 120 miles per hour when the collision happened. Investigation proved Kandula had the right of way in the cross walk. The incident drew widespread condemn after a recording was published in September 2023 in which Officer Daniel Auderer, vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild, was heard laughing and downplaying her death. Auderer said Kandula had "limited value" and that the city should "just write a check" for $11,000. Audrey was fired in July for his callous comments. Kandula's family had filed a wrongful-death lawsuit in King County Superior Court against the city and Dave, alleging that Kandula experienced severe emotional distress, pain and suffering before dying from her injuries. The lawsuit is scheduled to go to trial in September. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has stepped down as the leader of the Liberal Party and will quit as the Prime Minister of Canada after the party chooses its next leader. He also announced parliament would be prorogued or suspended till March 24. That means an election is unlikely before May at the earliest. Since the next election will only be by the end of this year, Trudeau's announcement set the ground for the Liberal Partys leadership election, the first in over a decade. I will always fight for this country, and do what I believe is in the best interest of Canadians. pic.twitter.com/AE2nSsx5Nu Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 7, 2025 When will the election be held? Liberal Party President Sachit Mehra will now start preparing for the contest. Mehra has said that a meeting of party's national board of directors will be held this week which will set a date for the elections to select a leader. A monitoring committee will be set up to oversee the elections. Though it is not yet clear when the next elections will take place, several senior leaders, including Eddie Goldenberg, have called for a quick election to choose the new leader, at least by the end of January. But, the mandates in the Liberal Party's Constitution may push the timeline to March end or even April. As per the party constitution, there should be a campaign period of at least 90 days. However, there are clauses to prepone the date under special political circumstances. There are also plans within the party to ensure that the leadership vote happens within the next 45 days to give the new Prime Minister adequate time to pass an appropriations bill before the federal government runs out of money on March 31. This will also buy the new PM sometime before the Parliament returns on March 24, when the government will likely face a non-confidence vote. Voting and counting The Liberal Party allows anyone who registered as a Liberal at least 41 days before the election date to vote. Anyone aged 14 and older with a Canadian mailing address can register to register as a Liberal Party member. The voting is held in multiple rounds with weights in place to give each electoral district an equal proportion of the vote. After every round, the candidate with the lowest total is dropped until one candidate hits a threshold of at least 50 per cent support. Who all are in the race? No sitting MP has formally declared their intention to run though political analysts say the race is likely to favour one of the cabinet ministers who are thinking of running. Some names doing the rounds include Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly, widely called Trudeaus potential successor, former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, whose recent resignation became the last straw for leadership change, ministers Francois-Philippe Champagne and Anita Anand. Other high-profile potential candidates include former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, and former B.C. Premier Christy Clark. New Delhi, Jan 7 (PTI) ASK Property Fund and India Sotheby's International Realty on Tuesday announced the launch of a Rs 1,000-crore equity fund for making investments in luxury residential projects. In a joint statement, ASK Property Fund and India Sotheby's International Realty said they have done a "strategic collaboration to launch India's first luxury real estate investment platform ASK Curated Luxury Assets Fund". ASK Property Fund is the real estate private equity arm of Blackstone-backed ASK Asset & Wealth Management Group. ASK Curated Luxury Assets Fund is registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India as a Category II Alternative Investment Fund under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012 (AIF Regulations). The purpose of this fund is to invest in residential projects in India in the luxury segment, the statement said. The fund's objective is to generate superior risk-adjusted returns for investors by investing in high-end residential projects in top cities, holiday homes, in vibrant and sought-after second-home micro-markets, including religious destinations, it added. The fund will raise third-party capital from institutional and individual investors in accordance with SEBI guidelines. This includes family offices, high net-worth individuals, insurance companies, pension funds, banks, financial institutions, sovereign funds, multi-lateral institutions, and other sophisticated and institutional investors. "We are confident that India's robust economic fundamentals and the increasing number of wealthy will continue to drive growth in the country's luxury residential real estate market. We are excited to collaborate with India Sotheby's International Realty, leveraging its strong brand presence and deep expertise in the luxury real estate segment, to launch India's first luxury residential opportunity-focused fund," said Amit Bhagat, co-founder, CEO & Managing Director at ASK Property Fund. Amit Goyal, Managing Director of India Sotheby's International Realty, said, "ASK Property Fund comes with an outstanding track record and profound investment insights from managing some of the top-performing real estate funds in the country. We are confident about the unique value proposition of this strategic collaboration." ASK Property Fund and India Sotheby's International Realty, as co-sponsors, will make an equal capital commitment to luxury real estate fund. So far, ASK Property Fund has raised around Rs 7,200 crore since 2009 and investors include family offices, ultra high net-worth individuals (UHNIs), high net-worth individuals (HNIs) and institutions. Jerusalem, Jan 7 (AP) The Israeli military launched a wave of raids across the occupied West Bank overnight and into Tuesday, killing at least three Palestinians. The army said it killed two Palestinian militants in an airstrike after they fired at troops in the area of Tamun, a village in the northern West Bank. It said another militant was killed in close-quarters combat in the nearby village of Taluza and that an Israeli soldier was severely wounded there. The military said it arrested more than 20 suspected militants in different parts of the territory. It said the overnight operations were not related to the shooting the day before, in which gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Israelis in the West Bank, killing two women in their 70s and a 35-year-old policeman before fleeing the scene. Israeli forces were pursuing those attackers in separate operations. 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 gunbattles with militants and have also killed civilians. There has also been a sharp rise in attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers, leading the United States to impose sanctions. Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war, and the Palestinians want it to form the main part of their future state. (AP) AMS Guwahati, Jan 7 (PTI) Army personnel have been engaged to rescue the nine labourers trapped inside a coal mine in Assam's Dima Hasao district, officials said on Tuesday. A relief task force with specialists such as divers and sappers, equipped with essential tools, reached the site in Umrangso to rescue the miners, a defence spokesperson said. ''Engineers task force with equipment, divers and medical teams from the Indian army and the Assam Rifles have joined the rescue efforts'', he said. All efforts are underway in close coordination with the civil administration to rescue the trapped people, another official said. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked the army for extending their help in the rescue operations. ''Much gratitude for this quick response. We are deploying all possible efforts to ensure the safe return of our miners'', the chief minister posted on 'X'. NDRF and SDRF personnel are also at the site to rescue the miners trapped inside the coal mine. Two water pumping machines were also put into use to flush out the water, an official said. Since Monday, nine labourers have been trapped inside the mine at the Assam Coal Quarry, situated in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso after a sudden gush of water flooded the site. According to employees of the quarry, there were around 15 workers inside the mine, though the authorities did not confirm the number. The chief minister listed the names of the trapped labourers - Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. 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, Sarma had in a post on X. Eyewitness accounts and initial assessments suggest that the flooding occurred unexpectedly, leaving the workers unable to escape from the mine. Rescue operations were launched immediately with teams consisting of local authorities, emergency responders and mining experts working to locate and free the trapped workers, the officials said. Patna, Jan 7 (PTI) Two dacoits were killed and a policeman was injured in an encounter in Patna district of Bihar, police said on Tuesday. The incident took place in Hinduni area under the jurisdiction of Phulwari Sharif police station on Monday night, a police officer said, adding that an associate of the deceased was also arrested. The deceased have been identified as Vivek and Lal Dahin, both residents of Nalanda district. Speaking to PTI, Sharat R S, Superintendent of Police (SP-West), Patna, said, "Acting on a tip-off about the movement of some gang members involved in dacoity and robbery, in Hinduni village, a police team was formed and a raid conducted on their location, when the criminals opened fire on the police." "The police personnel returned fire... two criminals and one sub-inspector suffered bullet injuries. The two injured criminals were taken to a nearby hospital, where they were declared dead by doctors," he said. The injured policeman is also undergoing treatment at the medical facility and his condition is stable, the officer said. While one associate of the deceased criminals was nabbed, other gang members managed to escape, he said, adding a manhunt has been launched to nab them. Preliminary investigation suggests that the deceased were wanted by the police in multiple cases of dacoity and robbery, he said, adding further investigation is underway. New Delhi, Jan 7 (PTI) The Election Commission will write to the cabinet secretary, informing that no Delhi-specific provision can be made in the Union Budget that can disturb the level-playing field, CEC Rajiv Kumar said on Tuesday. Polling for the 70-member Delhi Assmebly will be held on February 5 and the votes counted on February 8, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kumar announced. Responding to a query about the the Union Budget, scheduled days ahead of the polls, Kumar said, "We will write to the cabinet secretary that no Delhi-specific provision can be made in the Union Budget that can disturb the level-playing field." The last date to file nominations is January 17 and the scrutiny of nominations will be done by January 18. Candidates will be able to withdraw their nominations till January 20. Bypolls to two assembly constituencies -- Milkipur in Uttar Pradesh and Erode in Tamil Nadu -- will also be held according to the same schedule. New Delhi/Raipur, Jan 7 (PTI) CRPF Director General Vitul Kumar on Tuesday reached Chhattisgarh from Delhi to review the operations of his force and analyse the Naxal-triggered blast in Bijapur district that killed eight security personnel and a civilian driver of their vehicle on Monday. The acting chief of the paramilitary force is expected to visit the incident site, participate in the wreath laying ceremony of the killed jawans, and chair a review meeting of his force, officials said. Kumar will also visit a few CRPF camps in the Bastar region on Tuesday, they added. In their deadliest strike on security forces in Chhattisgarh in two years, Naxals blew up a vehicle using a 60-70 kg strong IED near Ambeli village under the Kutru police station area at around 2.15 pm on Monday. Eight security personnel -- four each from District Reserve Guard and Bastar Fighters, both units of state police -- along with the driver were killed on the spot, located around 70 km from the Bijapur district headquarters. The CRPF also recovered and defused an IED weighing about 20-22 kg in the same district on Monday, around seven hours before the deadly blast. The force is thick in action in Chhattisgarh as it is creating a number of forward operating bases in the interior regions of the state, apart from undertaking regular anti-Naxal operations. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently said the country will see the end of Left Wing Extremism by March, 2026. People from Doha of Qatar arrive at the Damascus International Airport, in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 7, 2025. Damascus International Airport received its first civilian flight from Doha on Tuesday, marking the first arrival from Qatar in 13 years, according to airport officials. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua) DAMASCUS, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Damascus International Airport received its first civilian flight from Doha on Tuesday, marking the first arrival from Qatar in 13 years, according to airport officials. The resumption of the route, suspended due to strained relations under Syria's previous leadership, came just weeks after the leadership's collapse in December, signaling a possible thaw in ties between the new Syrian government and Doha. Further details on subsequent flights or expanded service schedules were not immediately available. In the wake of the December downfall of Bashar al-Assad's leadership, Syria's new Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaybani traveled to Doha, where he met with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The two sides described the talks as "thorough and extensive" and underscored a shared roadmap for Syria's reconstruction and transition. People from Doha of Qatar arrive at the Damascus International Airport, in Damascus, Syria, on Jan. 7, 2025. Damascus International Airport received its first civilian flight from Doha on Tuesday, marking the first arrival from Qatar in 13 years, according to airport officials. (Photo by Monsef Memari/Xinhua) A newly-formed advocacy group is spearheading a $7 million initiative to rally Jewish voters ahead of New York Citys municipal elections with a particular focus on the pivotal mayoral race, the NY Post reported. The Jewish Voters Action Network (JVAN) aims to mobilize voters in 12 City Council districts with high Jewish populations to ensure strong turnout at the polls. Every City Council seat is on the ballot this year, alongside races for mayor, comptroller, and public advocate. A core part of JVANs strategy will center on encouraging independent and Republican Jewish voters to switch their party registration to Democrat in time for the citys June 24 primary. The push comes amid rising antisemitism and the recognition that Democratic primaries, often decided by low turnout, are crucial to determining Novembers winners in overwhelmingly blue New York City. The Jewish community is waking up to the realization that Democratic primaries are determined by low turnout, JVAN founder Maury Litwack told The Post. JVANs campaign will include advertisements across cable, digital, and social media platforms, as well as text messaging and direct mail efforts. In the second phase, JVAN plans to collaborate with local institutions and volunteers to organize voter mobilization efforts leading up to election day. Litwack, previously with the Teach Coalition, played a key role in mobilizing Jewish voters to support moderate Democrat George Latimer in his primary victory over Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a far-left anti-Israel demagogue. Teach Coalitions efforts also extended to Pennsylvania and Nevada during the 2024 presidential election, where Jewish voters helped shift the margins in favor of Donald Trump. Declared Democratic candidates for New York City mayor include embattled incumbent Eric Adams, city Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, and Brooklyn state Sen. Zellnor Myrie. Others in the running include Queens state Sen. Jessica Ramos, DSA-backed Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, and attorney Jim Walden. Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is reportedly considering a bid as well. On the Republican side, Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa is expected to make another run after losing to Adams in 2021. Jewish voters are largely common-sense voters, Litwack said. The Jewish community is able to make positive change when they come out and vote. Litwack made clear that JVAN, while non-partisan, would oppose candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), citing the groups sponsorship of an anti-Israel rally following the October 7, 2023 Hamas massacre. 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. To drive voter engagement, JVAN plans to deploy thousands of volunteers in a door-to-door effort to galvanize Jewish communities. Their first voter center will open Tuesday at 1240 Lexington Avenue on the Upper East Side. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) 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. 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. 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. Gadhafis alleged agreement 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. 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. 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 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. 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. Gadhafis 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. 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. (AP) The leader of Austrias Freedom Party received a mandate Monday to form a new government, which would be the first headed by the far right since World War II if he succeeds. The anti-immigration and euroskeptic Freedom Party, which opposes sanctions against Russia and is led by Herbert Kickl, won Austrias parliamentary election in September. It took 28.8% of the vote and beating outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammers conservative Austrian Peoples Party into second place. But in October, President Alexander Van der Bellen gave Nehammer the first chance to form a new government after Nehammers party said it wouldnt go into government with the Freedom Party under Kickl and 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 Nehammer said Saturday that he would resign. The Peoples Party then signaled that it might be open to working under Kickl. Van der Bellen said after meeting Kickl for about an hour at the presidential palace Monday that he had tasked the Freedom Party leader with holding talks with the Peoples Party to form a new government. I did not take this step lightly, the president told reporters. I will continue to take care that the principles and rules of our constitution are correctly respected and adhered to. 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 Kickl a 56-year-old with a taste for provocation served as interior minister. It collapsed in a scandal surrounding the Freedom Partys leader at the time. Coalition talks between the far right and conservatives arent guaranteed to succeed, but there are no longer any other realistic options in the current parliament and polls suggest that a new election soon could strengthen the Freedom Party further. In its election program 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 defense project launched by Germany. Kickl has criticized elites in Brussels and called for some powers to be brought back from the European Union to Austria. The Freedom Party is part of a right-wing populist alliance in the European Parliament, Patriots for Europe, which also includes the parties of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and of the Netherlands Geert Wilders, whose party dominates the Netherlands new government, Van der Bellen noted that the new government wont face an easy task. The economic environment is difficult. Austria is in a persistent recession, unemployment is rising; at the same time our state budget must be restructured, he said. Its not likely that all the measures will be popular, but they will have to be implemented. He also pointed to the geopolitical threats Austria faces, particularly as a result of Russias war in Ukraine, and pointed to the importance of constructively strengthening European cooperation in the Union, also in the interest of Austrian industry and exporters. And the head of state, a liberal who originally hails from the environmentalist Greens, said that he and Kickl had discussed media freedom in Austria at length. Kickl is confident of finding viable solutions in coalition talks, and he wants this responsibility, the president said. Kickl strode past reporters without commenting as he left the meeting. (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. Russias claim came a day after its Defense Ministry said Ukrainian forces had pressed new attacks in Russias Kursk border region. 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. 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. 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. 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. (AP) Newly released data from the New York Police Department (NYPD) reveals that antisemitic hate crimes have reached an unprecedented level in 2024, surpassing all other categories of hate crimes combined. The statistics paint a troubling picture, with 345 reported antisemitic incidentsmarking a 7% increase from the previous year. According to the NYPDs End of Year (EOY) 2024 report, anti-Jewish hate crimes accounted for more than half of the citys total hate crimes. This staggering figure far exceeded hate crimes targeting other groups, including Asian (35), Black (38), Muslim (43), and LGBTQ+ (78). In total, 641 hate crimes were reported across the city, with antisemitic incidents making up over 53% of the total. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine expressed alarm at the findings, emphasizing the disproportionate nature of the attacks. Antisemitic hate crimes reached an all-time high of 345. More than all other categories of animus combined, Levine noted in a social media post. Jewish New Yorkers are approximately 12% of the city. This is why Jewish NYers are sounding the alarm. We cant accept this as normal. Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein echoed Levines concerns, linking the surge to broader social and political factors. Still wondering why Jews dont feel safe in New York City? Anti-Jewish hate crimes outnumbered those against all other groups COMBINED in 2024, Eichenstein wrote. This is what happens when globalizing the intifada is allowed to fester. The rise in antisemitic hate crimes follows a pattern observed over recent years. While hate crimes targeting other groups, such as the Asian and Black communities, saw significant declines of 33% and 30% respectively, antisemitic incidents continued to climb. Muslim hate crimes also saw a dramatic increase of 65%, with 43 reported incidents. The overall number of hate crimes in New York City decreased by 4% from 2023 to 2024. However, the disproportionate rise in antisemitic incidents has raised serious concerns among Jewish communities and civil rights organizations. Jewish leaders and advocacy groups are urging city and state officials to take immediate action to address the spike in antisemitic hate crimes. Proposals include increased police presence in Jewish neighborhoods, enhanced community outreach programs, and stronger penalties for hate-related offenses. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) President Joe Biden is taking a message to the grieving families of victims in the deadly New Years attack in New Orleans: It takes time. You got to hang on. Biden on Monday arrived in the city where an Army veteran drove a truck into revelers in the French Quarter, killing 14 and injuring 30 more. Its likely to be the last time Biden travels to the scene of a horrific crime as president to console families of victims. He has less than two weeks left in office. Biden and first lady Jill Biden planned to attend an interfaith prayer service at the historic St. Louis Cathedral blocks away from the attack and have a private meeting with families. I think what youre going to see this president do today is show up for the community, be there for the community in the hardest time, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force One on the way to Louisiana. She went on, speaking about Bidens own understanding of loss, and said, He believes this is also an important part of the job that he believes he needs to do as president. Its a grim task that presidents perform, though not every leader has embraced the role with such intimacy as the 82-year-old Biden, who has experienced a lot of personal tragedy in his own life. His first wife and baby daughter died in a car accident in the early 1970s, and his eldest son, Beau, died of cancer in 2015. Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, Biden told reporters Sunday in a preview of his visit. My message is going to be personal if I get to get them alone. Biden often takes the opportunity at such bleak occasions to speak behind closed doors with the families, offer up his personal phone number in case people want to talk later on and talk about grief in stark, personal terms. In addition to the meeting with families, Biden hoped to visit with first responders in New Orleans, according to Jean-Pierre. The Democratic president will continue on to California following his stop in New Orleans. With a snowstorm hitting the Washington region on Monday, Bidens trip began with Air Force One starting its takeoff from inside a large hangar instead of on the tarmac as thick snow covered the ground at Joint Base Andrews and snowplows worked to clear the runway. In New Orleans on Jan. 1, the driver plowed into a crowd on the citys famous Bourbon Street. Fourteen revelers were killed along with the driver. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who steered his speeding truck around a barricade and plowed into the crowd, later was fatally shot in a firefight with police. Jabbar, an American citizen from Texas, had posted five videos on his Facebook account in the hours before the attack in which he proclaimed his support for the Islamic State militant group and previewed the violence that he would soon unleash in the French Quarter. Biden on Sunday pushed back against conspiracy theories surrounding the attack, and he urged New Orleans residents to ignore them. I spent literally 17, 18 hours with the intelligence community from the time this happened to establish exactly what happened, to establish beyond any reasonable doubt that New Orleans was the act of a single man who acted alone, he said. All this talk about conspiracies with other people, theres not evidence of that zero. The youngest victim was 18 years old, and the oldest was 63. Most victims were in their 20s. They came from Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, New Jersey and Great Britain. Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy, a Republican, was asked on Fox News Sunday what the city was hoping for from Bidens visit. How can we not feel for both the families of those who die but also those whove been injured in their families? he asked. The best thing that the city, the state, and the federal government can do is do their best to make sure that this does not happen again. And what we can do as a people is to make sure that we dont live our lives in fear or in terror but live our lives bravely and with liberty, and then support those families however they need support. (AP) The world is on edge as disturbing reports from China hint at a possible new outbreak, with hospitals and crematoriums allegedly buckling under the weight of rising cases and deaths. Despite mounting evidence, Chinese officials are downplaying the situation a chilling echo of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unconfirmed reports suggest the mystery illness, believed to be linked to the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), is spreading rapidly. While HMPV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms, accounts of long lines of sick children and adults flooding medical facilities paint a far grimmer picture. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for Chinas Foreign Ministry, tried to dismiss concerns, saying: Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season The diseases appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale compared to the previous year. It is safe to travel in China. However, independent reports tell a different story. Aboluowang News cited a farmer from Hunan Province who claimed that several deaths had occurred in his area, involving individuals as young as 40. A funeral director described long lines at crematoriums, likening the scene to a festival market except it was grieving families, not shoppers, filling the queues. Unverified footage circulating online shows crowded hospitals and patients desperate for care. The chilling accounts are unsettlingly reminiscent of the COVID cover-up that preceded a global pandemic, which cost over seven million lives worldwide. Critics warn that Chinas lack of transparency could once again delay critical international responses. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently urged China to share more data, but Beijings silence has been deafening. Meanwhile, the United States is experiencing a significant increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), with the percentage of positive tests doubling throughout December, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By the last week of December, nearly 300 positive cases were reported, marking the most recent figures available. HMPV, first identified in 2001, typically presents with symptoms similar to the common cold. However, in some cases, the virus can lead to more severe respiratory conditions, including bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. Severe cases may result in shortness of breath, intense coughing, or wheezing. Children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of developing serious complications from the virus. Although the mortality rate for HMPV is not precisely known due to its generally mild nature, experts estimate that between 10 to 30 percent of hospitalized patients die from complications. Similar to COVID-19, HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be transmitted through close personal contact, such as handshakes, or by touching contaminated surfaces. Research suggests that HMPV is responsible for approximately one in ten respiratory illnesses in US children. Common symptoms include fever, cough, congestion, and shortness of breath. The CDC estimates that around 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized with HMPV annually. Currently, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral treatments available for HMPV. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) 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 Maduros contested inauguration to a third term. Bidens 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 countrys next presidential term begins. Biden and Gonzalez agreed that Gonzalezs 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 protestors, democracy activists, and civil society. 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. 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. 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 Gonzalezs plans, Venezuelas 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 elections tally sheets. Last week, the government announced a $100,000 reward for information on Gonzalezs whereabouts. Gonzalez on Monday also told reporters his campaign has been in contact with the team of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. 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 Venezuelas 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. 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. (AP) North Korea said Tuesday its latest weapons test was a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile designed to strike remote targets in the Pacific as leader Kim Jong Un vowed to further expand his collection of nuclear-capable weapons to counter rival nations. The North Korean state media report came a day after South Koreas military said it detected North Korea launching a missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The launch, conducted weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president, came off a torrid year in weapons testing. North Korea demonstrated multiple weapons systems last year that can target its neighbors and the United States, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, and there are concerns that its military capabilities could advance further through technology transfers from Russia, as the two countries align over the war in Ukraine. North Korea in recent years has flight tested various intermediate-range missiles, which if perfected, could reach the U.S. Pacific military hub of Guam. In recent months, North has been testing combining these missiles with purported hypersonic warheads to improve their survivability. North Korea since 2021 has been testing various hypersonic weapons designed to fly at more than five times the speed of sound. The speed and maneuverability of such weapons aim to withstand regional missile defense systems. However, its unclear whether these missiles are consistently flying at the speeds the North claims. The Norths state media said Kim supervised Mondays launch, and that the weapon flew 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) and achieved a speed amounting to 12 times the speed of sound before accurately striking a sea target. South Koreas military did not immediately comment on the North Korean assessment. The Norths state media said Kim supervised Mondays launch, and that the weapon traveled 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), during which it reached two different peaks of 99.8 kilometers (62 miles) and 42.5 kilometers (26.4 miles) and achieved a speed amounting to 12 times the speed of sound, before accurately striking a sea target. Lee Sung Joon, spokesperson of South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the South Korean military believes North Korea was exaggerating capabilities of the system, saying the missile covered less distance and that there was no second peak. Lee said the test was likely a followup to another hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile test last April and said it would be difficult to use such systems in a relatively small territory like the Korean Peninsula. He said the South Korean and U.S. militaries were continuing to analyze the missile. Kim described the missile as a crucial achievement in his goals to bolster the Norths nuclear deterrence by building an arsenal no one can respond to, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state, the agency quoted Kim as saying. Kim reiterated that his nuclear push was aimed at countering different security threats the hostile forces posed to our state, but KCNA didnt mention any direct criticism toward Washington, Seoul or Tokyo. The launch took place while 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. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul on Monday, Blinken condemned North Koreas launch, which violated U.N. Security Council resolutions against the Norths weapons programs. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscows war on Ukraine. He described the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow 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. 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 Kims nuclear-armed military. At a year-end political conference, Kim Jong Un 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 as president, 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. (AP) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation after facing an increasing loss of support both within his party and in the country. Now Trudeaus Liberal Party must find a new leader while dealing with U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps threats to impose steep tariffs on Canadian goods and with Canadas election just months away. Trudeau said Monday he plans to stay on as prime minister until a new party leader is chosen. He could not recover after Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, long one of his most powerful and loyal ministers, resigned from the Cabinet last month. Trudeau, the 53-year-old scion of Pierre Trudeau, one of Canadas most famous prime ministers, became deeply unpopular with voters over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing as well as surging immigration. Whats next for Canada? A new Canadian leader is unlikely to be named before Trump is inaugurated on Jan. 20. The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada. Trump keeps calling Canada the 51st state and 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 into the U.S. even though far fewer of them cross the border from Canada than from Mexico, which Trump has also threatened with tariffs. Trump also remains preoccupied with the U.S. trade deficit with Canada, erroneously calling it a subsidy. Canadas ambassador to Washington, Kirsten Hillman, has said the U.S. had a $75 billion trade deficit with Canada last year. But she noted that a third of what Canada sells to the U.S. are energy exports and that there is a deficit when oil prices are high. If Trump applies tariffs, a trade war looms. Canada has vowed to retaliate. U.S. President Joe Biden said he spoke with Trudeau on Monday and expressed his appreciation, noting the U.S. will find no better ally, no closer partner, and no steadier friend. The same can be said of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 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, Biden said in a statement. I am proud to call him my friend. And I will be forever grateful for his partnership and leadership. When will there be a new prime minister? The Liberals need to elect a new leader before Parliament resumes March 24 because all three opposition parties say they will bring down the Liberal government in a no-confidence vote at the first opportunity, which would trigger an election. The new leader might not be prime minister for long. A spring election would very likely favor the opposing Conservative Party. Who will be the next leader of Trudeaus party? Its not often that central bank governors get compared to rock stars. But Mark Carney, the former head of the Bank of Canada, was considered just that in 2012 when he was named the first foreigner to serve as governor of the Bank of England since it was founded in 1694. The appointment of a Canadian won bipartisan praise in Britain after Canada recovered faster than many other countries from the 2008 financial crisis. He gained a reputation along the way as a tough regulator. Few people in the world have Carneys qualifications. He is a highly educated economist with Wall Street experience who is widely credited with helping Canada dodge the worst of the 2008 global economic crisis and helping the U.K. manage Brexit. Carney has long been interested in entering politics and becoming prime minister but lacks political experience. Carney said in a statement he is encouraged by support he has had, and that hes considering his decision with family over the next few days. Freeland is also a front-runner. Trudeau told Freeland last month he no longer wanted her to serve as finance minister but that she could remain deputy prime minister and the point person for U.S.-Canada relations. An official close to Freeland said Freeland couldnt continue serving as a minister knowing she no longer enjoyed Trudeaus confidence. The official spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The person added its far too early to make declarations but said Freeland would talk to her colleagues this week and discuss next steps. After she resigned, Trump called Freeland totally toxic and not at all conducive to making deals. Freeland is many things that would seem to irritate Trump: a liberal Canadian former journalist. She is a globalist who sits on the board of the World Economic Forum. Freeland, who is of Ukrainian heritage, also has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its war against Russia. Another possible candidate is the new finance minister, Dominic LeBlanc. The former public safety minister, and a close friend of Trudeau, LeBlanc recently joined the prime minister at a dinner with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. LeBlanc was Trudeaus babysitter when Trudeau was a child. Is it too late for the Liberals? Recent polls suggest the Liberals chances of winning the next election look slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trail the opposition Conservatives 45% to 23%. Trudeaus announcement might help the Liberals in the polls in the short run and, once a new leader is selected, things could improve further at least for a little while but that would not be so hard because, right now, theyre so low in the polls, said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal. Moreover, because Trudeau waited so long to announce his resignation, this will leave little time to his successor and the party to prepare for early elections, Beland said. Many analysts say Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre will form the next government. Poilievre, for years the partys go-to attack dog, is a firebrand populist who blamed Canadas cost of living crisis on Trudeau. The 45-year-old Poilievre is a career politician who attracted large crowds during his run for his partys leadership. He has vowed to scrap a carbon tax and defund the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. (AP) A press conference about a document issued by the General Office of the State Council on strictly regulating administrative inspections on companies is held by the State Council Information Office in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo by Liu Jian/Xinhua) BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese government has issued a comprehensive directive aimed at addressing the misuse of administrative inspections of enterprises, a senior judicial official said Tuesday. The new policy document, the first systematic one to regulate such inspections, aims to strike a balance between effective supervision and minimal interference in law-abiding business operations, said Vice Minister of Justice Hu Weilie at a press conference. The directive targets longstanding problems such as unclear inspection authority, excessive frequency and arbitrary implementation, Hu said. The document stipulates that only qualified entities may conduct inspections and ask for a review of existing inspection items to eliminate unnecessary or redundant checks. It also includes provisions to minimize the number and frequency of on-site inspections and replace some of them with written reviews, data sharing and application of information technology. Each administrative agency is instructed to adopt and publish the maximum annual inspection frequency of one enterprise by mid-2025. "These hard quotas aim to substantially lower the burden on enterprises," said Fei Xianghong, a senior ministry official, at the same press conference. The directive establishes clear rules to prevent abuse of power, including bans on profit-driven inspections, interference in regular business operations, arbitrary seizures and freezing of assets, and unjustified orders to halt production. Additionally, the document outlines procedural safeguards for conducting inspections, ensuring transparency and fairness throughout the process. "We are determined to show businesses the government's commitment to regulating administrative inspections and enhancing their confidence in the future," Hu said. He also emphasized that inspections in areas critical to public safety, such as food, pharmaceuticals and workplace safety, will remain rigorous, especially in cases involving public complaints or reports. Brazilian police on Tuesday morning appealed to the federal court regarding the claim filed by the antisemitic Hind Rajab Foundation [HRF] against an IDF soldier, saying that such an investigation involves technical and legal issues. In any case, the soldier fled the country on Sunday with the assistance of the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Additionally, Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli published an expose report on HRF on Sunday, revealing its close ties to terror groups. The heads of HRF, both natives of Lebanon now living in Belgium, have ties to Hezbollah and Hamas and have publicly supported murderous terror activities against Israelis, Jews, and even Americans. Following the serious incident in Brazil, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar convened a meeting on Sunday regarding the persecution of Israelis abroad attended by representatives of the Mossad, Shin Bet, and the National Security Council; ministers, including Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli; and senior officials from the Foreign, Justice, and Transporation Ministries. The meeting was the first of a series of discussions and focused on improving cooperation among all entities in dealing with the issue, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated following the meeting. Ynet reported on Sunday that since October 7, 12 criminal complaints have been filed against soldiers and reservists in the following countries: Morocco, Norway, Belgium, Cyprus, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, Brazil, Thailand, Ireland, Serbia, France, and South Africa. [Since the report, HRF has also filed claims against soldiers in Chile and Argentina.] In five of the cases, the targeted soldiers were assisted by Israeli authorities to quickly escape the country. According to the report, the main danger to IDF soldiers lies in countries with a hostile stance towards Israel, including Ireland, Brazil, Spain, Belgium, and South Africa. However, it should be noted that although HRF has attempted to issue arrest warrants for IDF soldiers, not one country has complied with the request. In Brazil, HRF attempted to thwart the IDF soldier from escaping the country by filing a claim to the federal court without mentioning his name. However, after it posted a message on social media that it filed a claim against an IDF suspect in Brazil, Foreign Minister Saar contacted the IDF, and officials from the ministry and IDF carried out a coordinated effort to identify the soldier. Within hours, they succeeded in contacting him and aided him and his friends to swiftly leave the country before a detainment order or arrest warrant could be issued against him. Meanwhile, HRF on Tuesday filed a claim of war crimes against an IDF soldier in Argentina. On Monday, it filed a claim against an IDF soldier in Thailand and is making efforts to file claims against additional soldiers in the country, which is a popular vacation site for Israelis. Additionally, HRF filed a claim in Chile this week for so-called war crimes against IDF soldier Saar Hirshoren who is currently traveling there. HRF located a pro-Palestinian group in Chile called AbogadosxPalestina, consisting of 620 Chilean lawyers, to do their dirty work for them. The group filed a criminal complaint against Hirshoren in Argentina on December 24 and Chile the next day, calling for Hirshorens arrest. The foundation said Hirshoren was initially in Argentina when the first case was filed before leaving for Chile. It should be noted that Chilis left-wing president, Gabriel Boric, has a long history of anti-Israel actions and sentiment even before the current war, including calling Israel a genocidal and murderous state. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) President-elect Donald Trump issued a renewed warning to Hamas, demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza before he takes office on January 20. In a radio interview with conservative host Hugh Hewitt, Trump doubled down on his previous statement that there would be hell to pay if Hamas fails to comply. Exactly what it says if those hostages arent released by the time I get into office, there will be hell to pay, Trump said during the interview. When pressed for specifics, Trump refrained from elaborating but made clear his stance would be more forceful than that of the current administration. It wont be the word dont, you know, he remarked, referencing President Joe Bidens warning to Hamas on October 10, 2023, following the terror groups October 7 attack on Israel. There will be hell to pay, Trump reiterated. Those hostages have to get out, they have to get out now. During the interview, Trump reaffirmed his unwavering support for Israel, stating, Im with Israel. I think thats pretty obvious to everybody. However, he also emphasized a broader desire for peace in the region. I do have to add, Im also for peace. Its time. This fights been going on for a long time, longer than people would understand, he said. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Israels Diaspora Ministry on Monday published a report about the antisemitic Hind Rajab Foundation, which has been legally persecuting IDF soldiers abroad. The foundation was established in September 2024 in Brussels as a non-profit organization and serves as a branch of the March 30 Movement, which has been active for over three decades in legally targeting IDF soldiers. The organization is led by two operatives of Lebanese descent, Dyab Abou Jahjah and Karim Hassoun. Jahjah is a native of southern Lebanon and a former Hezbollah activist known as Malcolm X, who published opinion articles in the Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Akhbar Lebanese newspaper. In 2002, he was accused by Belgian police of involvement in violence. In 2017, he was dismissed from writing columns for the Belgian newspaper De Standaard after praising a terrorist attack in Jerusalem that killed IDF four soldiers and stating Freedom for Palestine at all costs. He also referred to the 9/11 attacks as the sweet revenge. Hassoun has served as the chairman of the Arab European League, which aids Muslim integration in Europe, since 2005. Calls for the murder of Jews have been heard at Arab League protests during his leadership. He was convicted in the Netherlands of publishing an antisemitic cartoon conveying that Jews fabricated the Holocaust. Last December, he wrote, I condemn Hamas for taking only 100 hostages instead of 500 or 1000. He has also publicly expressed support for Hezbollah and Hamas and praised acts of murderous terrorism on social media. The foundation collects information about IDF soldiers that is publicly available online, including details about their military activities, with the intention of prosecuting them when they travel abroad. So far, the foundation has filed lawsuits against at least 28 soldiers in eight different countries. In addition, the organization has submitted information to the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding war crimes by over 1,000 soldiers and officers during their operations in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. The foundation also publishes the personal information of IDF soldiers who are abroad in order to compromise their safety. The foundation even filed a complaint against Israeli fans of Maccabi Tel Aviv who endured antisemitic attacks in Amsterdam in November 2024, claiming that the fans attacked pro-Palestinians and were documented making calls inciting violence against Palestinians and Arabs. The nefarious foundation has most recently filed claims against IDF soldiers in Chile, Thailand, and Argentina, and is now seeking to hire a law firm in Thailand to prosecute other IDF soldiers in the country. Following the publication of the expose on the foundation and other diplomatic efforts made by the Diaspora Ministry, the Brazilian police on Tuesday appealed to the federal court regarding the claim against the IDF soldier [who in any case has fled the country], saying that such an investigation involves technical and legal issues. Previously, Minister Chikli stated: The findings revealed in our ministrys research expose the true face of the human rights organization Hind Rajab Foundation, led by prominent terrorist-supporting Hezbollah activists. It is regrettable but not surprising that Lulas hostile government in Brazil has adopted the conclusions of this fringe organization whose nature has been exposed today. But Lula doesnt represent the spirit of the Brazilian people who are mostly pro-Israel and detest terrorist organizations. I thank my friend, House Representative Eduardo Bolsonaro, for stepping up to assist in the struggle against terror supporters. Chikli also sent a letter to Bolsonaro, stating: We view Brazil as an important ally in the global fight against terrorism, antisemitism, and the delegitimization of the State of Israel. Therefore, I appeal to you to raise a clear and firm voice against this injustice an injustice directed not only against an Israeli soldier but also against anyone who opposes the terror regimes of extreme Islamist groups in all forms. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) An investigation by the IDF has revealed that Hamass initial strike on October 7, 2023, targeted several key Israeli Air Force (IAF) bases, including Nevatim, Ramon, Hatzerim, and Palmachim. The bases, crucial to Israels aerial defense, were heavily targeted by the 4,500 rockets and mortars Hamas fired during the invasion. The report indicates that while air-raid sirens sounded across Israel, the primary objective of Hamass barrage was to disable military installations and prevent aircraft from taking off. A Channel 12 report detailed how Hamas intended to strike Tel Nof Base, approximately 45 miles north of Gaza, in a coordinated three-wave attack. The final wave, consisting of 10 pickup trucks loaded with terrorists, aimed to storm the base and seize control. An Israeli drone intercepted and killed the terrorists in the trucks near the Gaza border fence. Maps of Tel Nof Base were found on the bodies of the attackers, confirming Hamass intent. Leading the assault were mid-level Hamas commanders from the elite Nukhba unit of the Al-Qassam Brigades, along with 15 company commanders and several deputies. The investigation also highlighted shortcomings in the IAFs preparedness. Despite escalating border tensions since the 2018 Great March of Return riots, the Air Force had not conducted drills simulating ground invasions from Gaza. As a result, on the morning of the attack, the IAF had only two helicopters and one fighter jet on standby, with just a single drone monitoring Gaza. Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar, head of the Air Force, reportedly learned of the attack on the Supernova music festival nearly 10 hours after the assault began. Investigators concluded the Air Force lacked situational awareness and was less informed than many civilians at the time. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The personal details of Chabad shliach in Metula, Rabbi Moshe Sasonkin, were uncovered in chilling documents that IDF forces found in a Hezbollah bunker in the southern Lebanese village of Kfar Kila during the recent war in the north. The documents included Rabbi Sasonkins name, address, and even his car details, along with the details of other prominent individuals on the northern border yishuv of Metula. Metula is located only two kilometers from Kila, which was a Hezbollah stronghold before the war. The town was mostly destroyed by IDF forces during the war. Rabbi Sasonkin, who has been the Chabad shliach in Metula for 35 years, told the Kfar Chabad newspaper: Among the intelligence found in Hezbollahs underground bunkers was a list of the most important people in Metula the head of the council, council members, and the head of security. Our house was also honored to be marked on the terrorists map, along with a precise description of our car. This was a detailed plan for a massacre similar to October 7, which only due to Chasdei Shamayim did not come to fruition. The documents revealed that Hezbollah terrorists in Kila planned to launch an October 7-style attack in Israel from nearby Metula. IDF operations in Kila during the war revealed that almost every house in the Lebanese village had been converted into a missile launch point, and the Radwan Force terrorists were operating from there. Almost every house, even if it appeared to be a residence of a family of innocent civilians, contained a stockpile of weapons, including RPG missiles and other lethal munitions, and thousands of terrorists were trained and ready to use this weaponry to attack, Rabbi Sasonkin said. There is no logical explanation for why they did not carry out the diabolical plan, which was already prepared in every detail. The only explanation is that we experienced a great neis. Long before the October 7 attack, a senior reserve military officer living in the area and regularly attending our Torah shiurim often told me how deeply concerned he was about the security situation, Rabbi Sasonkin added. He warned that there was a real and immediate danger as Hezbollah terrorists could breach the border at any moment, easily overrun Metula, and cause a hostage crisis or worse before anyone could respond in time. Its likely even he didnt realize just how prepared Hezbollah was for an attack on the northern communities. But his words made it less surprising to me when it became clear just how ready and trained they were for such a horrifying assault. Fittingly, Rabbi Sasonkin was first told about the great neis on Chanukah. A senior source told me that after IDF forces entered the village of Kfar Kila, they discovered a document containing highly detailed plans for a massacre similar to the one on October 7. This information came to me recently during a conversation with a senior official. I told him that now, after the cease-fire, theres hope that Metulas residents will finally return to their homes. He replied, You have no idea how much you need to be thankful for, and then revealed the contents of this harrowing document. Just think about it: mere kilometers from Metula, every home we could see from every corner of the town was filled with weapons. This included anti-tank missiles and other lethal munitions. Thousands of terrorists were trained and ready to use this arsenal to attack the north in the same way Hamas attacked the south. Its clear that the local civilians wouldnt have been able to thwart the invasion, and the local security squads wouldnt have been able to either. The terrorists could have easily infiltrated and carried out their murderous plot without resistance. We must remember that each one of us is a living neis. Weve all experienced a miraculous salvation. Theres no logical explanation for what stopped the terrorists in Lebanon from carrying out their plans on October 7, just like the terrorists in Gaza did in the south. They planned it for years, built infrastructure, trained killers, gathered weapons, and were ready to strike, he added. Just this week, I asked IDF officials whether Kfar Kila still poses a threat. The response was that after the IDFs operations against Hezbollah over the past year, especially since the ground operation, the area is mostly desolate. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) JAKARTA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia welcomes Brazil's announcement as chair of BRICS 2025, which recognizes the Southeast Asian country as a full member, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday. "This milestone reflects Indonesia's growing and active role in global affairs and its commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation for a more inclusive and equitable global order," the ministry said in a statement. The ministry said Indonesia was actively involved in the BRICS agenda, which includes promoting economic resilience, technology collaboration, and solutions to global concerns, including climate change and public health. Indonesia's membership in BRICS is a strategic step toward strengthening South-South cooperation and represents the aspirations of Global South countries in global decision-making processes, the ministry added. Arsjad Rasjid, chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, saw this a historic moment and an opportunity to expand economic, trade and investment cooperation with other BRICS countries in the face of global competition. He believed that this membership will improve economic fundamentals, stimulate innovation and accelerate national economic growth. A Palestinian student is seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) GAZA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- As the conflict in Gaza grinds on, residents of the besieged enclave are striving to provide education for the younger generation, often relying on makeshift solutions amid the chaos. According to the United Nations, half of the school-age children in Gaza are now missing their second consecutive year of formal education. A study backed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) warns that the war could set back education for children and young people in Gaza by up to five years, raising fears of a "lost generation" of Palestinian youth, permanently scarred by trauma and deprivation. Palestinian students are seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen in a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen in a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen in a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Palestinian students are seen outside a tent that was turned into a small classroom to educate displaced children at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah central Gaza Strip, on Jan 6, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Uisce Eireann has today launched a non-statutory consultation for the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region. This is a once in a generation project and is the first major new source water infrastructure in the region in the last 60 years. It will deliver a safe, secure, sustainable source of water supply necessary to support our growing population and economy, including the demand for housing. It is a project that will enable us to adapt to the effects of climate change by diversifying our water supply sources. Public consultation information events in Tipperary will take place in the Lakeside Hotel, Ballina on January 15 and in the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh on January 16, from 4-8pm. The consultation will provide all stakeholders with an opportunity to give feedback on the Proposed Project until the 4th of March, in advance of Uisce Eireanns submission of the planning application to An Bord Pleanala. The Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region proposes to abstract water from Parteen Basin, upstream of Parteen Weir on the Lower River Shannon, utilising a maximum of 2% of the long term average flow at Parteen Basin. It is proposed that the water will be treated near Birdhill, Co. Tipperary and treated water will then be piped 170km through counties Tipperary, Offaly and Kildare to a termination point reservoir at Peamount in County Dublin, connecting into the Greater Dublin Area water distribution network. READ NEXT: LATEST: Tipperary county council provide services update as poor weather continues The project will develop a new, climate-resilient, long-term water source to meet the demands of a growing population and economy, including the need for housing, as well as enabling us to adapt to the effects of climate change by diversifying our water supply sources. This essential project will provide Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow with a resilient, safe, secure water supply. It will also create a treated water supply spine across the country, providing infrastructure with the capacity for future offtakes to serve communities along the route in Tipperary, Offaly, and Westmeath. In addition, it will enable supplies currently serving Dublin to be redirected back to Louth, Meath, Kildare, Carlow and Wicklow, providing security of supply to homes and businesses, which will support growth and regional development. As part of the Consultation process, Uisce Eireann will be hosting a number of public information open days at key locations along the route in Tipperary, Offaly and Kildare, in addition to online webinars. The consultation material can be viewed online at water.ie/watersupplyproject where you can make a submission. The feedback received in response to the consultation will be used to inform the design and accompanying environmental reports, where appropriate, in advance of submitting a planning application to An Bord Pleanala. Speaking about the Consultation, Director of Infrastructure Delivery at Uisce Eireann, Maria ODwyer said, Water supply in the Eastern and Midlands region faces a number of serious challenges, notably the over-reliance on the River Liffey to supply 1.7 million people in the Greater Dublin Area. With forecasts showing that the region will need 34% more water by 2044 than is available today, this combination of a growing water supply deficit and lack of supply resilience is simply not sustainable. The launch of this consultation is another major milestone towards the delivery of this essential infrastructure. We look forward to further engaging with stakeholders, landowners and communities along the route to provide them with more information and an opportunity to provide feedback. The Consultation will run from 7 January until 4 March 2025. Further information on the consultation events, webinars, Frequently Asked Questions and details on how to make a submission can be found at www.water.ie/watersupplyproject. Uisce Eireann are aware of operational issues as a result of cold weather conditions. Our crews, alongside Local Authority teams are working in difficult freezing conditions to return water supplies to those affected by treatment plant outages, bursts on the network and electricity outages. Travel conditions remain very challenging in parts of Tipperary restricting access to some sites and making it difficult to provide alternative water supplies. Our priority is the provision of clean safe drinking water to communities and the safety of water services staff who work to make that happen. READ NEXT: ALERT: Orange warning issued for low temperatures and ice in Tipperary over next few days Thousands of homes across Ireland are facing into a third day without electricity and water as the country continues to battle the arctic conditions, with temperatures set to plummet tonight. A Status Yellow snow and ice warning for the whole country is in place until midday today, while a separate Status Yellow warning for low temperatures and ice is in effect until midnight on Friday. ESB crews have resumed work to restore power to 10,000 premises, with Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary mainly affected. Approximately 25,000 people are without water still, with supplies to a further 30,000 at risk. Met Eireann is forecasting a very cold day ahead with sunny intervals, scattered wintry showers and highest temperatures of 0 to 5 degrees. Tuesday night is set to be "extremely cold" with lowest temperatures of -8 to -3 degrees with a sever frost and icy stretches. The forecaster has warned of hazardous travelling conditions on roads and underfoot are to be expected. Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran-Sherlock told RTE's Morning Ireland that it is "quite likely" that they will issue orange level warnings later today ahead of temperatures plummeting to -8 in parts tonight. Currently, Wednesday is shaping up to be a bitterly cold morning with widespread frost and ice along with patches of freezing fog lingering in places through the day. Otherwise, there will be sunny periods and scattered wintry showers, mainly in the north and west. However, it will be cloudier for a time near southern coasts with the chance of some patchy rain. Highest temperatures of -1 to +4 degrees with mostly light northerly breezes, more moderate near southern coasts. Wednesday night will be extremely cold, mostly dry and clear overnight. However, further wintry showers are expected in the northwest with lowest temperatures of -8 to -2 degrees. BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese military has sent a drone to survey the epicenter after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Xigaze in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time), according to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theater Command. It said the theater command's air force immediately activated a disaster relief emergency plan, adding that a team of transport and medical planes, helicopters and ground forces is on standby to assist with disaster relief. The Western Theater Command has dispatched staff to the affected area to coordinate rescue efforts. As of Tuesday afternoon, the People's Armed Police Force Xizang Contingent had deployed over 400 officers and soldiers to the earthquake-stricken area for rescue operations. Additionally, approximately 2,000 officers and soldiers from the PLA and armed police stationed in Xizang are on standby to provide reinforcements. A total of 95 people have been confirmed dead and 130 others injured as of 3 p.m. Tuesday after the earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze. BEIRUT, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations and Lebanon on Tuesday extended the Lebanon Flash Appeal, seeking 371.4 million U.S. dollars to aid civilians impacted by the recent conflict and ongoing humanitarian crisis. Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh al-Shami and UN's Deputy Special Coordinator for Lebanon Imran Riza announced the extension, covering January to March 2025, at Beirut's Grand Serail, headquarters of the Lebanese prime minister. Building on the October 2024 appeal, the funds target Lebanese citizens, refugees, and migrants most affected by the crisis. The conflict, which erupted in October 2023 and escalated in late 2024, killed over 4,000, injured 16,000, and displaced over one million. With 125,000 people still displaced and widespread destruction, Riza warned of an urgent need for international support to sustain life-saving efforts. The appeal prioritizes food, winter aid, emergency repairs, and protection while addressing critical gaps in healthcare, water, and education. Minister of Environment Nasser Yassin urged support for Lebanon's strained institutions and municipalities, warning of potential collapse without emergency funding. URUMQI, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The number of inbound and outbound passengers at the Torugart Port in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region reached a record high of over 150,000, up 78.26 percent year on year, according to the Torugart immigration inspection station. Meanwhile, the number of vehicles crossing the border via the port reached a historical peak of 144,500, an increase of 49.25 percent year on year. The Torugart Port is located in Wuqia County of the Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang at an altitude of 3,795 meters and borders the Naryn region of Kyrgyzstan. Currently, the main exports through the port include clothing, daily necessities, automobiles and household appliances. The primary imports consist of sheep and cattle hides, lead ingots and coal. MANILA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and five others injured after a refrigerated truck carrying frozen fish collided with a van and a motorcycle before plunging into a deep ravine in Bukidnon province in the southern Philippines, police said Tuesday. Police said the accident happened on Monday along a highway in Quezon town. Investigation showed the refrigerated truck driver lost control of the vehicle after its brake failed while navigating a steep, downhill stretch of the road. The truck then collided with a motorcycle and a van, causing all three vehicles to roll over several times before plunging into a roadside ravine, the police said. SAO TOME, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Sao Tome and Principe's President Carlos Vila Nova dissolved Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada's government on Monday and requested his party to propose a new candidate for the position of prime minister and head of government within 72 hours, according to a presidential decree obtained by Xinhua. The decree criticized the government's "notable incapacity" under Trovoada's leadership, citing the prime minister's "frequent and prolonged absences" from the country, which it said failed to produce any visible benefits for the state or its people, instead resulting in unjustifiable expenses for the public treasury. The decree also pointed out the prime minister's lack of clear "strategic cooperation" and obvious "institutional disloyalty," and "factors that have hindered the institutional relationship that should exist between the president of the republic and the government, through the prime minister." According to the national news agency STP-Press on Tuesday, tensions between the president and the prime minister, both members of the Independent Democratic Action Party (ADI), escalated late last year when the government approved an airport tax increase through a resolution, overriding a political veto from the head of state, who vowed to work toward annulling the measure. The report noted that under the Constitution of Sao Tome and Principe, if the ADI proposes Trovoada's name again, the president may invite the second-largest party to form a government. Should that party fail to secure a parliamentary majority, the president would then have the authority to call legislative elections within three months. Rescuers work in an earthquake-affected area in Changsuo Township of Dingri in Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Thirty-two people have been confirmed dead and 38 injured during the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time), according to regional disaster relief headquarters. (Xinhua) LHASA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Thirty-two people have been confirmed dead and 38 others injured during the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time), according to the regional disaster relief headquarters. Over 1,000 houses have sustained varying degrees of damage. Following the quake, China Earthquake Administration launched a level-II emergency service response and sent a work team to the site to assist with disaster relief efforts. Xizang Autonomous Region also issued a level-II emergency response to the quake. Some 22,000 disaster relief items, including cotton tents, cotton coats, quilts and folding beds, together with special relief materials for high-altitude and frigid areas, have been dispatched by central authorities to the quake-hit area. Over 1,500 local firefighters and rescue workers have also been dispatched to the ground. The epicenter was monitored at 28.5 degrees north latitude and 87.45 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, according to a report issued by the China Earthquake Networks Center. The epicenter is located in Tsogo Township of Dingri County, which has a population of approximately 6,900 people within a 20-km radius. There are 27 villages within this area. Official data show Dingri County has a population of over 61,000 people. Local police officers check an earthquake-affected area in Qutang Village of Dingri in Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Thirty-two people have been confirmed dead and 38 injured during the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time), according to regional disaster relief headquarters. (Xinhua) Damaged houses are pictured after an earthquake in Tonglai Village, Changsuo Township of Dingri in Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Casualties were reported after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time). The epicenter was monitored at 28.5 degrees north latitude and 87.45 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, according to a report issued by the China Earthquake Networks Center. (Xinhua) A damaged house is pictured after an earthquake in Xegar Township of Dingri in Xigaze, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. Casualties were reported after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time). The epicenter was monitored at 28.5 degrees north latitude and 87.45 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, according to a report issued by the China Earthquake Networks Center. (Xinhua) Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba meets with Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese Foreign Minister, in Swakopmund, Namibia, on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhang Yudong) WINDHOEK, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday met with Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese Foreign Minister, in the city of Swakopmund, with both sides pledging to advance bilateral cooperation. Despite the geographical distance, the bond between China and Africa has remained strong, Wang said. The China-Africa relationship has withstood the test of changing global circumstances and is showing new promising prospects, he said, stressing that China remains a trustworthy partner for Africa, consistently prioritizing Africa in its overall diplomatic strategy. For 35 years, Chinese foreign ministers have made Africa the destination of their first overseas visit of each year, a tradition that reflects China's unwavering commitment, Wang said, adding that this tradition will continue because strengthening China-Africa cooperation is more crucial than ever for the world, and their joint development symbolizes the rise of the Global South and the growing influence of justice. Namibia, an important member of the African family, is also a comprehensive strategic cooperation partner of China, he noted. At the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed 10 partnership action plans to jointly advance modernization and announced 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 has charted the course for the future development of China-Africa relations, Wang said, noting that China is ready to work with Namibia to implement the 10 partnership action plans, helping Namibia accelerate its modernization process. Acknowledging Namibia's unique resources and vast development potential, Wang said that the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) Party of Nambia has adopted a people-centered governance philosophy and guided the country along a development path suited to its national conditions. China is willing to strengthen exchanges on governance with Namibia and deepen cooperation in various fields to achieve common development, Wang said. Mbumba said despite differences in size, Namibia and China have always maintained a relationship of friendship, solidarity and cooperation, based on mutual respect and support. Namibia firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports China's efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity, including Taiwan, and admires the development achievements under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the leadership of the Communist Party of China, he said, adding that Namibia looks forward to enhancing interparty exchanges with China and sharing governance experiences. Mbumba recalled his meeting with Xi during last year's FOCAC Beijing Summit when the two leaders reached a consensus on strengthening bilateral relations. Namibia supports the Beijing Declaration and the FOCAC Beijing Action Plan adopted at the summit and is keen to actively implement the summit's outcomes, hoping to expand cooperation in infrastructure, digital economy, energy, agriculture and education, thereby improving the well-being of the two peoples, he said. Namibia supports the three global initiatives proposed by Xi, namely the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and looks forward to continued mutual support and collaboration with China in international and regional affairs to safeguard shared interests. On the same day, Wang also met with Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah meets 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, on Jan. 6, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen) Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who are the two lead persons for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs, hold talks via video link on Jan. 7, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Tuesday held talks via video link with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, with both sides agreeing to maintain communication, manage differences and continue stabilization of China-U.S. economic relations during the political transition period in the U.S. The two lead persons for China-U.S. economic and trade affairs reviewed the experience of China-U.S. economic exchanges and cooperation in recent years and spoke highly of the important role of China-U.S. economic and financial working groups and other dialogue mechanisms in implementing the important consensus reached by the two heads of state. The Chinese side expressed concern over U.S. economic and trade restrictions on China -- in particular clarifying China's position concerning the recent trade investigation initiated by the U.S. side. The video call was candid, in-depth and constructive, and both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining communication. This post is just for our most dedicated readers as we share a late night peek at our reading by way of pop culture, community reporting and top headlines. Check TKC news gathering . . . Workers Of Winter World United 'We are open today. We're 24/7': The winter blast didn't stop several businesses from welcoming customers From fast food joints to hardware stores, the majority of businesses across the Kansas City metro were closed on Monday. But for some business owners, not opening was not an option. The Dotte Remains Snowbound Most Wyandotte County roads still aren't plowed. Officials say they lack 'super powers' The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and KCK is focusing on clearing major routes before moving to neighborhood side streets, lagging behind other areas of the metro and frustrating residents. EPIC Deal For Home Team Royals re-sign Michael Lorenzen to one-year, $7 million deal The Royals have re-signed right-handed pitcher Michael Lorenzen to a one-year, $7 million deal, according to ESPN reporter Jeff Passan. Anne Rogers has the full breakdown of the deal that will pay... Life Saving Slumber Party Hospital crews step up and sleep over during weekend ice storm and blizzard Hospital crews working together during and after the snow storm caring for patients and each other. Cowtown Blizzard Exposed Photos: See the impact of Kansas City's snow storm across the metro The Kansas City metro is still digging itself out from a nearly-record 11 inches of snow that got dumped by a blizzard over the weekend. Roads remain icy and treacherous, however, and much of the city remains shut down. Celeb Good Life Vacay For Context Sydney Sweeney almost spills out her bikini top The blonde beauty was almost spilling out of her bikini top as she flashed her toned tummy while in small briefs. Hollywood's newest 'it girl' was wearing sunglasses. MAGA Moment Arrives Congress meets to certify Trump's 2024 election victory Lawmakers are now meeting for a joint session of Congress to certify President-elect Donald Trump's 2024 victory. Prez-Elect Against Dox Trump seeks to block 'imminent' release of special counsel Jack Smith's report Trump's lawyers said they reviewed a two-volume draft copy of Smith's report on the election interference and classified documents cases over the weekend. Tesla Invasion Coming Soon Musk asks his followers if the US 'should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government' Tech billionaire Elon Musk on Monday asked his followers on the social platform X if the U.S. "should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." "America should liberate the ... Peace Eludes Holy Land Hurdles remain as Israel and Hamas once again inch toward a ceasefire deal Israel and Hamas are once again struggling to reach a ceasefire that could wind down the 15-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of Israelis held hostage. Eastern Europe War Cont'd Battle rages in western Russia as Moscow reports gains in Ukraine 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. Info As Far East Flu Rises HMPV Cases Are Rising Across Asia, but Experts Say Not to Panic A common respiratory virus called human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, has been spreading in some countries in Asia, including China, India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan. Here's what we know Better Skillz On Local Ice Photos: Mavs bounce back with dominating victory of Allen Americans at Cable Dahmer The Kansas City Mavericks get back on track against the Allen Americans with a 5-2 win on Friday, January 3, 2025. Overnight Chill Predicted Kansas City weather: Temperatures will be below zero in some locations overnight Everyone across the Kansas City region is bracing for an exceptionally cold week. And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. With help from BEST & BRIGHTEST TKC READERS . . . We have "liberated" and important quote from behind the paywall of a Kansas newspaper. Here's the setup and the basic question about progressive future in Kansas amid a worsening political position for the guv at the outset of another MAGA epoch . . . "Democrats in the Kansas Legislature are in a familiar position, occupying minorities in both the House and Senate where they lack political power to advance their own policy priorities or to stop Republican goals. "Their position in the 2025 legislative session is more difficult than in recent years, as the GOP grew its supermajorities in the 2024 elections, giving them greater margins for enacting conservative legislation by overriding vetoes without Democratic support. "Meanwhile, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is entering her penultimate year in office, limiting her political clout. House Speaker Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said the governor is a "lame duck." "Republicans have had a mixed record on override attempts, as their slim supermajorities left little margin for dissent within the GOP. But with smaller Democratic minorities, Kelly's veto power may be less impactful, as Republicans have a greater ability to override." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Again, the link is paywall'd and they don't REALLY have any answer to the question they pose . . . CJ Online: With fewer seats, how will Democrats work with or against GOP supermajorities? Developing . . . Close Save asset to your list Please log in to use this feature Log In or Sign Up 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 GENEVA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The escalation of geopolitical conflicts and regional instability have brought the level of global cooperation to a low point, according to a report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on Tuesday. The Global Cooperation Barometer 2025 report called on the international community to actively explore cooperation paths and strengthen cooperation to meet common challenges. It uses statistical data from 2012 to 2023 to evaluate global cooperation trends in five areas, including trade and capital, innovation and technology, climate and natural capital, health and wellness, peace and security. The report believes that after a decade of positive momentum, international cooperation around various areas has stalled. Affected by the intensification of geopolitical competition and conflict, the level of global cooperation in peace and security has dropped sharply in the past few years, the report said. In 2023, affected by crises in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan, geopolitical conflicts and the resulting humanitarian crises have reached unprecedented severity, it added. Political and geopolitical turbulence has the potential to degrade global cooperative efforts, the report said. But in areas such as trade, innovation and climate, global cooperation is still in a positive trend. Thanks to the digitalization of the global economy, global technology and innovation cooperation continued to advance in 2023, but emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are reshaping the global landscape, increasing the possibility of new frontiers of geostrategic competition, the report said. The report believes that global cooperation to achieve climate goals has been strengthened in 2023, capital flows and trade in low-carbon technologies such as solar energy, wind energy and electric vehicles have increased. As global carbon emissions continue to increase, strengthening global cooperation is necessary to achieve climate goals by 2030. This is the second time the WEF has released the Global Cooperation Barometer since 2024. Borge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum, said that in the face of a challenging global situation, cooperation is the only way to address major economic, environmental and technological challenges. An injured man receives medical treatment at a hospital following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, Jan. 7, 2025. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,885, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Tuesday. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua) GAZA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 13 Palestinians, including five children, were killed in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian sources on Tuesday. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Civil Defense in Gaza, told Xinhua that Israeli warplanes struck a house in Jabalia, north of the Strip, with at least one missile, killing at least five people and injuring 20 others. Israeli aircraft also targeted a tent sheltering displaced people in the Mawasi area, west of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, according to local sources and eyewitnesses. Paramedics told Xinhua that medical teams retrieved the bodies of five children and rescued several other injured people following the strike, which caused the tent to catch fire. In addition, Israeli warplanes struck a vehicle in the Al-Manara neighborhood, east of Khan Younis, killing three people inside, according to Palestinian medical sources. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were taken hostage. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,885, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Tuesday. Rescuers transfer a victim to a hospital following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, Jan. 7, 2025. The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,885, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Tuesday. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua) Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Authorities confirm first human bird flu death in U.S. The Health Authorities in the United States have confirmed the first bird flu death in the state of Louisiana Tuesday January 7, 2025 9:32 AM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies [File image for representation] Washington: The Health Authorities in the United States have confirmed the first bird flu death in the state of Louisiana. In a statement released Monday, the US Health officials said the deceased patient, who died of bird flu or avian influenza in Louisiana, was elderly and suffered from other pathologies, according to news agency AFP. "The patient, aged over 65, had been hospitalized for a respiratory ailment, and was the first serious case of human infection of the H5N1 virus to be detected in the United States", the statement said. The officials further said a genetic analysis had suggested the bird flu virus had mutated inside the patient, which could have led to the more severe illness, according to Associated Press. The U.S. health officials however said there is no need to panic. "Despite this death, the public health risk posed by bird flu remains low", it said. About Bird Flu Bird flu, strains of the influenza virus that primarily infect birds, but can also infect humans. As many as 66 confirmed bird flu infections have been reported in the US since March. 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 caught it. 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 Delhi Election 2025: Polling on Feb 05, vote count on Feb 08 Model code of conduct comes into effect with the release of Delhi Election Schedue Tuesday January 07, 2025 Tuesday January 7, 2025 4:31 PM , ummid.com News Network New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) Tuesday January 07, 2025 announced February 5 to be the date of Delhi assembly elections. Model code of conduct comes into effect with the release of Delhi Election Schedule today i.e. Tuesday January 07, 2025, the EC said. Delhi Election Schedule 2025 The date of notification is January 10, while January 17, 2025 will be the last date of filing nominations. "The counting of votes will take place on February 08, 2025 when all results will also be announced", Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar said while addressing a press conference today. There are a total of 70 seats in Delhi - including 58 General and 12 reserved for SC candidates. The key contenders in th 2025 Delhi Assembly elections are the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress. All the three parties are contesting the Delhi state elections independently. Delhi Election Result 2020 Polling for the last election of Delhi Assembly was held on February 08, 2020. The counting of votes had taken place on Feb 11, 2020 when the results were also announced. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had swept the 2020 Polls winning 62 of the total 70 seats. The BJP had won 08 seats whereas the Congress had failed to win a single seat in the 2020 polls. 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 Massive earthquake hits Chinas Tibet region, scores dead A massive earthquake struck Chinas Tibet region Tuesday January 07, 2025 leaving scores dead and hundreds injured Tuesday January 7, 2025 12:52 PM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies Beijing: A massive earthquake struck Chinas Tibet region Tuesday January 07, 2025 leaving scores dead and hundreds injured. The deadly quake was so massive that its tremors were felt in Nepal and India including Bihar, Assam and West Bengal. The epicentre of the earthquake was in Tingri county in Shigatse city. Tingri, a tourism hub for those visiting Mount Everest, is about 400 km southwest of Tibet's capital Lhasa and is on the border with Nepal. Quoting Chinese media Xinhua, news agency AFP reported 53 people were killed and more than 60 others have been injured in the quake. 3 Earthquakes in 35 Minutes According to the India's National Center for Seismology, three earthquakes hit the region in a span of 35 minutes. The first earthquake was recorded at 06:35 AM, the second at 07:02 AM and the third at 07:07 AM, as per the NCS data. The first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and a depth of 10 kilometres (six miles), according to data from the US Geological Survey. Chinese state media however reported the earthquake as having a slightly lesser magnitude of 6.8, causing "obvious" tremors and leading to the damage of over 1,000 houses. There have been several strong aftershocks, according to BBC. Meanwhile, the Chinese air force has launched rescue efforts and drones to the affected area, which sits at the foot of Mount Everest and where temperatures are well below freezing. Both power and water in the region have been cut off. 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 Trump wants Canada to be 51st state of U.S. U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump Monday January 6, 2025 reiterated his long-term suggestion of making Canada the 51st state of the United States Tuesday January 7, 2025 8:09 PM , ummid.com News Network Washington: U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump Monday January 6, 2025 reiterated his long-term suggestion of making Canada the 51st state of the United States. In a social media post on Truth Social, Donald Trump said a merger with the United States of America will make Canada a great nation. Moreover, he said, the Canadians will have a life free from the burden of taxes and will be secured from the threat they face from Russia and China. Trump reiterated the idea which he had floated earlier too came hours after the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, resigned. 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 on Truth Social. If Canada merged with the US, 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!!! said Trump. Trump had made this suggestion for the first time during his meeting with Trudeau at his Mar-a-Lago resort after his election victory in November 2024. After this he repeated the idea several times on different occasions. During the meeting, Trump suggested that if Canada's economy were to collapse under US tariffs, it could merge with the U.S. with Trudeau as its "governor." Trump repeated his suggestion Monday hours after Trudeau resigned as Prime Minister. Meanwhile, Trudeau said he will remain in office till his party elects a new leader. Canada is up for a scheduled General Elections later this year. 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 Two handshakes - one in Syria, other in US, that sparked debate Two handshakes one in Syria and the other in the United States, which actually could not take place, have sparked debate across the world Wednesday January 8, 2025 0:08 AM , ummid.com News Network Two handshakes one in Syria and the other in the United States, which actually could not take place, have sparked debate across the world. The first was in Syria on January 03, 2025 and involved the countrys de facto ruler Ahmad al Sharaa and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. The other is of the United States, on the same day, and involved U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and newly elected Republican Party Senator from Nebraska Deb Fischers husband. Both the handshakes did not actually take place and remained immature but sparked a worldwide debate and thus received global attention. Ahmad al Sharaa, Annalena Baerbock Handshake German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Syria along with her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot on January 03, 2025. Annalena Baerbock and Jean-Noel Barrot were the first from the European Union (EU) member countries to visit Syria after the fall of Bashar al Assads brutal rule in December last . Upon landing in Syria, the two were greeted first by the Syrian officials on the tarmac of the Damascus Airport and later by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Chief Ahmad al Sharaa, alias Abu Muhammad al Jolani , at the Presidential Palace. While the Syrian officials shook hands with the French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, they stayed away from his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited Syria along with her French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot on January 03, 2025, and was greeted this way. pic.twitter.com/TwdQ4Vv2VQ ummid.com (@ummid) January 7, 2025 They did so because the Islamic principle forbids close or physical contacts with women who are non mahram. The incident was portrayed as insult to Annalena Baerbock by a section of the media. Video footage available in public domain, however, shows Syrian officials on the tarmac and Ahmad al Sharaa at the Presidential Palace holding their hand close to their chest and bowing their heads in a mark of respect and expression of thanks to the visiting dignitaries. Not arrogance, but a generous smile was on their faces as they welcomed the German and French foreign ministers on the Syrian soil. Kamala Harris, Fischer Handshake The other handshake - that actually was, not is of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischers husband Bruce Fischer. Harris was performing her duty as Vice President on January 03, 2025 to swear in the newly elected U.S. Senators Democrats and Republicans both, of the 119th Congress. After Sen. Fischer was sworn in by Harris for her 3rd term in office, her husband, Bruce Fischer, who held up the Bible during the swearing-in ceremony, deliberately declined to shake Kamala Harris hand as she reached for his hand. Congratulations to you, Kamala Harris said as she extended her hand to Bruce Fischer after shaking his wifes hand. Bruce Fischer instead looked down and simply nodded his head and said, Thank you, video footage showed. This is how U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris was treated by Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischers husband Bruce Fischeron January 03, 2025. pic.twitter.com/PizGg0AAqO ummid.com (@ummid) January 7, 2025 The video clips also show Fischer refusing to make any eye or physical contact with Americas first female, first Black woman and first South Asian Vice President. Harris, who appeared taken aback by the snub, simply smiled and said, You sure? More than his refusal to handshake with Harris what irked watchers the most was the arrogance with which Fischer did so while holding his head high. This was in total contrast to the new rulers of Syria who avoided physical contact with the German Foreign Minister obeying their Islamic belief at the same time greeting her with a generous smile and bending their heads out of respect. But, for a section in the world, Ahmad al Sharaa and Syrian officials were guilty of insulting the German Foreign Minister whereas in the case of Harris, Fischer stand-off, the U.S. Vice President was guilty, she showed lack of control, pettiness and juvenility, and reacted in a manner so that the entire attention was on her and how she was slighted. Amidst the raging debate, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock downplayed the controversy surrounding the incident, saying she was well-informed of her hosts beforehand, and that it was not unexpected. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. DAMASCUS, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A series of moves took place across Syria on Tuesday, as the new authorities seek to restore normalcy and tackle longstanding infrastructure challenges after the previous government's downfall in December 2024. Damascus International Airport resumed international flights to and from Gulf nations, launching a morning departure to Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates and welcoming the first civilian flight from Qatar's Doha in 13 years. It marks a step toward alleviating the burdens Syrians have faced traveling through alternate airports. "We are now able to reactivate Damascus International Airport," said Ashhad Slaibi, head of Syria's civil aviation authority. "This development will help our citizens avoid higher travel costs and, in the near future, we hope to restore service at Aleppo Airport as well." In a separate announcement on Tuesday, the General Organization for Electricity Transmission and Distribution said two power-generating vessels from Turkiye and Qatar are en route to Syria, capable of producing a combined 800 megawatts. It did not say over what period. Director-General Khaled Abu Dei said this capacity is roughly half of Syria's current total electricity output, predicting a potential 50-percent boost in supply once the lines are set up to distribute the power. Noting the extensive damage to power stations, substations, and transmission lines across Syria, Abu Dei said the new administration is working swiftly to rebuild and adapt the grid. Meanwhile, Oil and Mineral Resources Minister in the Syrian interim government Ghaiath Diab said Tuesday that engineers are using the downtime of Syria's largest oil refinery the Baniyas Refinery, caused by a crude oil shortage since December 2024 after the fall of the previous Syrian government, to perform maintenance on equipment. Diab expected crude shipments to arrive soon, at which point the facility can restart production and help meet the nation's fuel needs. In a statement to the local press on Tuesday, Syrian Arab Red Crescent chief Hazem Baqleh warned of severe medicine shortages and stressed the urgency of restoring hospital services, many of which were damaged during the conflict. On the security front, an unnamed Syrian official was cited by the local Al-Watan Online newspaper as stating that security authorities on Tuesday launched a sweeping operation in Zabadani, west of Damascus, targeting leftover weapons depots and arresting "remnants" of the previous government's militias who refused to surrender arms or comply with reconciliation measures. The operation followed a three-day security sweep launched by the military in the central Syrian province of Homs. A college in Lufkin, Texas settled a recent race discrimination lawsuit filed by a former Black employee. The college, called Angelina College, has particularly agreed to pay $315,000 to Dr. Monica Peters-Clark, who was hired in 2005. Dr. Peters-Clark alleged that the college did not consider her qualifications for a leadership position she previously had an experience before. Instead, it was given to an "unqualified" white candidate instead. In 2017, before her layoff as part of the administrative restructuring, Dr. Peters-Clark had been the Coordinator of Institutional Effectiveness. Allegations of Discrimination Fast forward to 2022, Yahoo News reported that Angelina College advertised a new executive director position. This was similar to Peters-Clark's previous position before her layoff, which means she was qualified and had made many contributions to the college. However, she was not considered for the position. Read more: Student Admits to Faking Racist Messages at Rhodes College to Smear Trump Supporters Instead, Angelina College gave the position to a white candidate, and it was only after local concerns were raised that Peters-Clark was interviewed. Still, the position was given to the white candidate, and Peters-Clark filed a grievance and then a complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission, which was dismissed. June 2023 saw Peters-Clark file a lawsuit against Angelina College alleging discriminatory hiring procedures. She appealed for a review of the employment discrimination on racial grounds. Papers filed in the court showed fears over the unbalanced selection procedure that Angelina used in its recruitments, an action that they termed as racist. The case was to be heard in November 2024, per The Lufkin Daily News. However, both parties settled on the case and avoided the trial. The settlement amount was $315,000. According to Peters-Clark's lawyers, the settlement is a win that vindicates her claims. The representatives of Peters-Clark blamed the college president, Dr. Michael Simon, for creating the environment that prompted the lawsuit. Despite the challenges, Peters-Clark continued to support Angelina College and its positive impact on the community. Her legal team urged the college's board to examine President Simon's actions and hiring practices to ensure accountability and inclusivity in the future. (@ChaudhryMAli88) LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) Senior Vice President Amna Munawwar Awan has said that Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is playing a pivotal role in taking the country's economy to development path and restoring the confidence of the world. As a result of these efforts, China, Russia and Brazil have recently expressed their desire to invest in various sectors of Pakistan. According to a PBF spokesman here Tuesday, she was addressing the Forum's steering committee. She added that SIFC is a groundbreaking initiative that has redefined Pakistans approach to attract investments and fostering economic growth. By providing a unified platform for decision-making and facilitating seamless coordination among key stakeholders, SIFC has set a new benchmark for economic governance and investment facilitation in Pakistan. With objectives to streamline processes, remove bottlenecks, and offer a one-window solution for investors, she mentioned, the SIFC addresses the long-standing challenges which had hindered Pakistans potential as a global investment destination. This initiative has introduced unprecedented levels of transparency, efficiency and responsiveness, which are critical for building investor confidence and driving long-term economic stability. However a well developed regulatory framework that simplifies procedures, reduces bureaucratic burdens, and improves transparency will attract more investors, she said and asserted that bringing synergy in different institutions, and cutting down on red tape enhances predictability and modernisation. Entrepreneurs and corporations will be better positioned to significantly increase their investments in the national economy. This influx of investment will drive stronger economic growth and improved social welfare. Amna Munawwar Awan said that SIFC should push the policy-makers to come up with viable policies for industrial revival, smart agriculture and scaling up IT services. The priority sectors must be offered to the private sector for joint ventures with suitable partners, while the government should provide more incentives and reduce red tape. PBF Senior Vice President viewed that SIFC needs to remain focused on the facilitation of business transactions. Both G2G (government to government) and private sector joint ventures require very difficult skill sets and approaches, while the SIFC can facilitate G2G investments, similar arrangements may not be as effective for private sector investment, therefore, it is crucial to involve experts from private sector in the SIFC. ZANZIBAR, Tanzania, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- The 34th Chinese medical aid team to Tanzania's Zanzibar has recently provided specialized training to more than 30 local doctors at Kivunge District Hospital in the Unguja North region. Invited by Zanzibar's Ministry of Health, the team, consisting of experts from Huai'an No. 1 People's Hospital in east China's Jiangsu Province, offered lectures and hands-on teaching on Sunday, breathing new life into the local healthcare system. As a key element of the China-Africa hospital cooperation mechanism, the training covered a range of topics, including laparoscopic surgery, imaging diagnosis of small intestinal obstruction, transperineal prostate puncture, and gallstone disease. Chinese imaging expert Zhang Jiandong elaborated on the diagnosis of small intestinal obstruction, enhancing local doctors' ability to diagnose acute abdominal conditions. Urology doctor Niu Xiaobing introduced the new technique of transperineal prostate puncture, aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer in local hospitals. He highlighted the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, which minimizes trauma and promotes faster recovery, contributing significantly to improving the overall medical capabilities of local doctors. Tamim Hamad Said, head of the Kivunge District Hospital, expressed gratitude for the Chinese medical team's contribution, noting that their presence not only provided better healthcare services for local patients but also fostered the development of skilled medical professionals in the region. Since 1964 when Jiangsu dispatched its first medical team to Zanzibar, 847 medical workers in 34 batches have provided medical services to some 8.3 million locals so far, according to the Jiangsu Commission of Health. SHARJAH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Jan, 2025) The Sharjah Consultative Council is set to convene its seventh session on Thursday. The session, part of the Councils activities for the second ordinary session of the eleventh legislative term, will be held at its headquarters in Sharjah under the chairmanship of Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the Councils Chairman. Following the ratification of the minutes from the sixth session, the agenda includes deliberations on a draft law regarding corporate tax for extractive and non-extractive natural resources in the Emirate of Sharjah. The discussion will centre on the report submitted by the Financial, Economic, and Industrial Affairs Committee of the Sharjah Consultative Council in relation to the draft law. The session will be attended by Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Director of the Central Finance Department, and Dr. Falah Al Husseini, Tax Affairs Advisor, representing the Central Finance Department of the Sharjah Government. Additionally, Dr. Eisa Saif bin Hanzal, Director of the Legal Department of the Sharjah Government; Hatem Mohamed Al Mousa, Director-General of the Department of Oil and Chief Executive Officer of the Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC); and Ismail Mohamed Noor, Executive Director of Financial and Administrative Affairs at SNOC, will also be present. (@FahadShabbir) BAGHDAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Jan, 2025) The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that one coalition member was killed and two were wounded in Iraq. In a statement issued on Monday, CENTCOM said that the command and partner forces conducted operations in Iraq and Syria from 30th December 2024 to 6th January 2025, in support of the ongoing Defeat ISIS (D-ISIS) campaign. The statement said, From 30th December to 6th January, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations. The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS ability to plan, organise, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well as US citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond. One coalition member was killed, and two were wounded from two different nations. There were no injuries to US personnel or damage to US equipment, the statement added. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Diplomatic Enclave Shuttle Service, a lifeline for citizens visiting embassies for visas, has come under fire for its appalling conditions. The cafeterias, meant to serve visitors, were riddled with unhygienic practices, and substandard items were being openly sold. Visitors complained of broken washrooms, foul odors, garbage piles, and even stables in the vicinity. Some waiting rooms shockingly had iron beds instead of proper seating. The washrooms are completely unusable. Theres a terrible stench everywhere, and the waiting areas look like abandoned storerooms, a frustrated visa applicant told APP. Abdul Rehman, another visitor complained about overpriced, substandard food: The cafeterias are a rip-off. They sell stale snacks at exorbitant prices, and theres no regard for hygiene. Adding to the chaos, garbage piles and even stables were found in the area, creating an environment unfit for the thousands of citizens who rely on the service daily. This is supposed to be the Federal capital, yet these conditions are worse than those in rural areas, remarked Sana a disappointed traveler. Following visitors' complaints, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa conducted a surprise visit on Tuesday and found the service in a deplorable state. Taking immediate action, Chairman Randhawa sealed both cafeterias on the spot and directed the Islamabad Food Authority to test the quality of food items. Legal proceedings against the cafeteria owners have also been initiated. This is unacceptable. Citizens deserve better facilities, Randhawa said while talking to media. He has demanded an upgrade plan for the shuttle service within three weeks, emphasizing the need to transform the space into a clean, modern facility. Currently operated under the CDAs supervision following instructions from the Interior Minister, the service runs 10 electric buses daily to facilitate citizens. The minister had stressed the importance of ensuring high-quality services for those seeking visas. The CDA Chairman assured citizens that the area would soon be upgraded with top-notch facilities. We are committed to providing the best services to the people, he said. CDA officials, including members of the DMA, were present during the inspection. (@FahadShabbir) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Higher education Commission (HEC) Tuesday convened a meeting of the National Curriculum Review Committee (NCRC) in the discipline of Public Health at HEC Regional Center, Lahore. The meeting brought together 15 experts from academia, showcasing a shared commitment to enhance the academic and professional standards of the Public Health programme. Dr Farida Anjum, Director (Academics) HEC welcomed the participants and appreciated their commitment towards the discipline by participating as members of the committee for review and revision of the curricula of degree programmes in the discipline of Public Health. The NCRC elected Dr Ramesh Kumar, Professor and Dean (Public Health) Health Services academy, Islamabad as the Convener of the committee. Muhammad Tufail Qureshi, Deputy Director (Academic) HEC gave a presentation on the process of curriculum development and provided an overview of HECs Undergraduate Education Policy (2023), Graduate Education Policy (2023), HEC Uniform Semester Guidelines and the National Qualification Framework. After two days of thorough deliberations, curricula for BS and MS degree programmes in the discipline of Public Health were finalized. UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Pakistan's Alternative Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, met Somalia's Ambassador Abukar Dahir Osman, on Monday and exchanged views with him on "matters related to the UN Security Council", according to a press release of the Pakistani mission. Somalia, along with Pakistan, is one of five new non-permanent members that joined the 15-member Council on January 1 for a period of two years (2025-26). Ambassador Asim Iftikhar also paid a courtesy call on the UN Under-Secretary-General for the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), Li Junhua. Matters related to economic and social development including cooperation between Pakistan and DESA came under discussion during the meeting, the press release said. APP/ift Al Henakiyah, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Jan, 2025) Sebastien Loeb was forced to withdraw from the Dakar Rally after a crash on Tuesday, denying the Frenchman his dream of a first title in the event. The nine-time World Rally champion went off the road 12 kilometres into the 327km stage between Bisha and Al Henakiyah in Saudi Arabia. After a nasty bounce his Dacia performed several impressive rolls, which seriously damaged the vehicle. The 50-year-old and his Belgian co-driver Fabian Lurquin set off again after a five-minute stop for repairs, but struggled throughout the rest of the stage. Race officials later said the damage sustained to the car meant that Loeb could not continue, forcing him to pull out of the race for a third time. "Following an inspection by the FIA's technical stewards, the crew is not authorized to start Stage 4," read a post on the Dakar Rally's X account. Loeb, who has finished second three times in the Dakar Rally, ended the stage in 4 hours 20 minutes 12 seconds, more than an hour behind the day's winner, 19-year-old South African Saood Variawa. "We were able to continue but suddenly the steering rod broke, I think because of the rollover," said Loeb earlier in the day at the finish. "Then we had a problem with the engine overheating. We tried to finish the stage. We managed to do so, but we lost an hour. "It wasn't the kind of day we prefer. We lost an hour and we got the feeling that we were in 'it' up to our necks. But it is what it is." Variawa, in a Toyota, finished 33 seconds ahead of Frenchman Guerlain Chicherit in a Mini. Another South African Toyota driver, Henk Lategan retained the overall lead after finishing 12th on the day, 7mins 31sec behind Variawa. Variawa is 41st, 7 hours 47 minutes 11 seconds behind after losing eight hours the day before following a head-on collision with team-mate and compatriot Giniel de Villiers. Reigning champion Carlos Sainz had retired on Monday after his Ford Raptor flipped, damaging its roll bar. With rain forecast, the stage was shortened from the original 496km. In the motorbike competition, Spaniard Lorenzo Santolino, riding a Sherco and making his seventh appearance in the Dakar Rally, won a stage for the first time. Australian Daniel Sanders still leads the overall standings. The Rally through Saudi Arabia ends on January 17 in the Empty Quarter desert. ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Pakistans High Commissioner Vice Admiral (R) Faisal Rasul Lodhi on Tuesday called on President of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and presented his credentials to the President. The President of the Maldives stressed the importance of deep brotherly relations between the two countries and expressed his best wishes. The High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Vice Admiral (R) Faisal Rasul Lodhi, presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Maldives in a traditional and dignified ceremony. The ceremony was held this morning at the Maldives Headquarters. The High Commissioner was escorted to the Headquarters by the Cultural Band of the Maldives National Defence Force. The Deputy Head of Staff, Zulqarnain Ahmed also accompanied the High Commissioner. The meeting was also attended by the Presidents Chief of Staff Abdullah Fayyaz, the President of Maldives Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Mohamed Naseer and the Maldives Foreign Secretary Fatima Anaya. During the meeting, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu congratulated Vice Admiral (R) Faisal Rasool Lodhi on his appointment as the High Commissioner of Pakistan to the Maldives. The High Commissioner conveyed his congratulations and best wishes to the President of the Maldives on behalf of the President and the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Both the President of the Republic of Maldives and the High Commissioner emphasized the importance of the deep brotherly relations between Pakistan and the Maldives, which are based on religious affiliation, common cultural interests, mutual trust and respect. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and the High Commissioner held detailed discussions on enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, including trade, health, education, climate change, tourism and defense. The dignitaries also reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the cordial relations between the two countries. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Seoul, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol evaded arrest after a Monday deadline passed but anti-graft investigators were likely to be granted more time to enforce the warrant. The former star prosecutor has defiantly refused questioning three times over a bungled martial law decree last month and remained holed up in his residence surrounded by hundreds of guards preventing his arrest. Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office sought an extension to the warrant that expired at the end of Monday (1500 GMT) and asked for support from the police, which said the force would help and may arrest anyone shielding Yoon. "The validity of the warrant expires today. We plan to request an extension from the court today," said CIO deputy director Lee Jae-seung, whose authority has been refuted by Yoon's lawyers. The request was officially filed on Monday evening and an extension can be granted all the way up to the midnight deadline. If the warrant expires, investigators can apply for another one. The deadline passed Monday without comment from investigators or Yoon, but Lee earlier told reporters the likelihood for the court not to grant the extension "is very low". Officials have sought more time and help because of the difficulties they have faced, including being met by hundreds of security forces when they entered Yoon's presidential compound on Friday. "We will consider the option of arresting any personnel from the Presidential Security Service during the execution of the second warrant", a police official said Monday, speaking on condition of anonymity. The opposition Democratic Party has also called for the dissolution of the security service protecting the impeached president. If authorities detain Yoon, who has already been suspended from duty by lawmakers, he would become the first sitting president in South Korean history to be arrested. But they would only have 48 hours to either request another arrest warrant, in order to keep him in detention, or be forced to release him. While officials have been unable to get to Yoon, the joint investigation team has gone after top military officials behind the martial law plan. The prosecution's martial law special investigation unit on Monday indicted Defence Intelligence Commander Moon Sang-ho on charges of playing an integral role in an insurrection and abuse of power. - Defiant supporters - Yoon would face prison or, at worst, the death penalty if convicted for insurrection over briefly suspending civilian rule and plunging South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades. But both he and his supporters have remained defiant. "We will protect the Presidential Security Service till midnight", said Kim Soo-yong, 62, one of the protest organisers. "If they get another warrant, we will come again." Early Monday dozens of Yoon's lawmakers from the People Power Party turned up in front of his presidential residence and police blocked roads. "I've been here longer than the CIO now. It doesn't make sense why they can't do it. They need to arrest him immediately," said anti-Yoon protest organiser Kim Ah-young, in her 30s. The initial warrant was issued on the grounds that Yoon has refused to emerge for questioning over his martial law decree. His lawyers have repeatedly said the warrant is "unlawful" and "illegal", pledging to take further legal action against it. - Blinken in town - US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul early Monday, and did not meet Yoon but held a joint news conference with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul. He praised Seoul's democratic resilience but his focus was shifted away from domestic politics when North Korea fired what appeared to be an intercontinental ballistic missile into the sea as he met Cho. South Korea's Constitutional Court has slated January 14 for the start of Yoon's impeachment trial, which if he does not attend would continue in his absence. A prosecutors' report for his former defence minister seen by AFP Sunday showed Yoon ignored the objections of key cabinet ministers before his failed martial law bid, evidence the court may take into account. The Constitutional Court has up to 180 days to determine whether to dismiss Yoon as president or restore his powers. Former presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye never appeared for their impeachment trials. Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Jan, 2025) The United States on Monday condemned "brazen ceasefire violations" in the Democratic Republic of Congo by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who seized control of a key town in the east at the weekend. "The continued advances by the M23, including the taking of Masisi town this weekend, damage efforts to reach a negotiated peace in eastern DRC while harming and displacing civilians in the area," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement. "M23 must immediately cease hostilities and abide by the ceasefire." The March 23 Movement (M23), a militia supported by Rwanda and its army, has seized vast swaths of the east of the DRC since 2021, displacing thousands and triggering a humanitarian crisis. "We reiterate our long-standing call for Rwanda to immediately withdraw all Rwanda Defense Force personnel and equipment from the DRC," Miller said. A ceasefire agreement signed in August had stabilized the situation at the front, but both sides continued to exchange fire and clashes have intensified since late October. Angola-mediated talks between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi `peace deal. Masisi, with a population of around 40,000, is the administrative capital of the territory with the same name, rich in agriculture, livestock and minerals. It lies about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the North Kivu provincial capital Goma. "To end the conflict and suffering, it is vital that both the DRC and Rwanda uphold their commitments to the Angola-mediated Luanda Process and ensure that the reinforced ad hoc verification mechanism is operational," Miller said. Paris, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Jan, 2025) The first human death from bird flu in the United States has intensified calls for the government to ramp up efforts to stave off the threat of another pandemic -- particularly ahead of Donald Trump's return to the White House. Health experts around the world have for months been urging US authorities to increase surveillance and share more information about its bird flu outbreak after the virus started spreading among dairy cows for the first time. On Monday, Louisiana health authorities reported that a patient aged over 60 was the country's first person to die from bird flu. The patient, who contracted avian influenza after being exposed to infected birds, had underlying medical conditions, US health authorities said. The World Health Organization has maintained that bird flu's risk to the general population is low, and there is no evidence that it has been transmitted between people. However health experts have been sounding the alarm about the potential pandemic threat of bird flu, particularly as it has shown signs of mutating in mammals into a form that could spread more easily among humans. - 'This is how it could start' - The bird flu variant H5N1 was first detected in 1996, but since 2020 millions of birds have died in a record global outbreak. In March the virus started transmitting between dairy cows in the United States. Since the start of last year, 66 bird flu cases have been recorded in humans in the United States, many of them among farm workers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The US cases had been relatively mild until the Louisiana patient. However nearly half of the 954 human cases of H5N1 recorded since 2003 have been fatal, according to the WHO. Marion Koopmans, a virologist at the Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands, emphasised that the public should not be unduly worried about another pandemic. "The problem is that this is how it could start," she added. Koopmans criticised that "there is not really an effort to contain" the bird flu outbreak among cattle in the United States. Jennifer Nuzzo, a professor of epidemiology at Brown University in the United States, told AFP that the first death came after people "have really been shouting for the US government to do more". Tom Peacock, a virologist at the Imperial College London, told AFP last month that to avoid a pandemic, governments could be putting more "pressure on the US to try and contain its H5N1 outbreak in cattle". Peacock was a co-author of a preprint study released on Monday, which has not been peer-reviewed, describing how the mutations of H5N1 in cattle enhance its ability to infect other mammals -- including humans. WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris said the United States "are doing a lot of surveillance" on bird flu. "That's why we're hearing about it," she added. Last week, the US government awarded an additional $306 million to bolster H5N1 surveillance programs and research. YAOUNDE, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chad's Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah on Monday expressed "deep concern" over French president Emmanuel Macron's contemptuous comment about Africa. The French president said African leaders had "forgotten to say thank you" to France for helping to combat extremist insurgencies in the Sahel. "None of them would have a sovereign state if the French army had not deployed in this region," Macron said. Chad's top diplomat said in a statement that such remarks reflected "a contemptuous attitude" toward Africa and Africans. "French leaders must learn to respect the African people and recognize the value of their sacrifices," Koulamallah said. He said France did not build the Chadian army and that France had never contributed to its structural development. The Chadian people aspire to full sovereignty and true independence. French troops are in the process of pulling out of Senegal, Cote d'Ivoire and Chad, having already withdrawn from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. U.S. President Joe Biden received Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, recognized by Washington as Venezuela's president-elect, at the White House on Monday. They had a "long, fruitful and cordial" conversation, Gonzalez told reporters. Click here for the full story in Spanish. On Monday, just days before the inauguration of the Venezuelan president, opposition leader Edmundo Gonzales Urrutia, who has proven his electoral victory with official records, met with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House. Gonzalez added that his team is already in talks with members of the elected government of Donald Trump, who will take office on Jan. 20. Click here for the full story in Spanish. Namibian activist Jimmy Areseb appeared in court Monday after being arrested for allegedly violating public order laws during a protest at a local traditional authoritys offices. Areseb and others at the rally accused officials of accepting bribes from a Chinese mining company in return for access to lithium deposits. The confrontation highlights growing tensions in Namibias Erongo region, where activists say the Chinese company, Xinfeng, is acting illegally. Images of an elderly woman being carried off by members of Namibias paramilitary Special Field Force on Saturday set the Namibian social media space abuzz, with some comments likening it to the apartheid era when the country was controlled by South Africa. In another circulating video, members of the widely feared police unit are seen confronting elderly men and women who had gathered at offices of traditional chiefs and councilors, whom they accuse of allowing the Chinese company Xinfeng permission to mine for lithium without following the proper channels and procedures. The tensions at Uis, a mining settlement in the mineral-rich Erongo region, culminated in the arrest of activist Jimmy Areseb for interfering with the Special Field Force, who were enforcing a court order for demonstrators to vacate the offices where they had camped for a week demanding to see the chief. At the center of the storm is Xinfeng, a company that Namibias commissioner of mines has charged with illegal mining. Community members are asking why police arrested Areseb but not anyone from Xinfeng. Speaking to VOA, police spokesperson Kauna Shikwambi said the two cases cannot be compared. Those, were obstructing officers, right there at the scene, now. The other one requires investigation, and there must be evidence, thats why investigations take so long, to have evidence, that indeed an arrest can be affected or not. You can never compare that and that! It doesnt make sense, said Shikwambi. Xinfeng is accused by the activists of paying bribes to the chiefs, in order to gain consent for the mining. However, a Xinfeng spokesperson, Kuvee Kangueehi, said those claims are false. He said the company makes a contribution of about $550 per month to the traditional authority as part of its corporate social responsibility and this is being misconstrued by the community as a bribe. EPLs, and mining claims, and all the rights are granted by the Ministry. So for what reason will Xinfeng bribe an entity that does not grant the license? And its not in the business of Xinfeng to bribe anybody, he said. Local chief Sagarias Seibeb, who is being accused of turning a blind eye to the interests of his community in favor of the Chinese company, told VOA the people camping at his office, including Jimmy Areseb, are his in-laws. He said family members feel they are not benefiting from his position as a chief, and are using the Xinfeng issue to settle family disputes. I cannot deny someone access to do prospecting, or whatever, in my area. I am just a custodian of the area. The land belongs to the state and there is a section that deals with that consent letter, and that can be done with or without my consent letter, said Seibeb. On Tuesday, the chief is to meet with protesters in the presence of police officers and officials from the central government to try and find a solution to the tensions troubling the community. Meanwhile, police say they are investigating the charge against Xinfeng. U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to block Nippon Steel's $14.9 billion bid for U.S. Steel cast a shadow over Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Japan on Tuesday for farewell meetings with Washington's most important ally in Asia. The rejection, announced on Friday, has jolted U.S. efforts to boost ties with Asian allies just as South Korea's political crisis potentially complicates a revived relationship between Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. The trilateral alliance is a key plank in the countries' efforts to counter China's military buildup. Investment into the U.S. could also be chilled, but analysts say any damage to the wider U.S.-Japan relationship will likely be limited given shared security concerns about China. On Monday, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described Biden's decision to block the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel as "perplexing." Accompanied by White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Blinken met Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo and will hold talks later in the day with Ishiba and other senior Japanese officials Numerous trips to Japan over the last four years "is evidence, not just of the importance, but of the centrality the United States attaches to our partnership. President Biden asked me to come on this last trip to underscore that," Blinken told Iwaya. "We have, between our two countries, a partnership that started out focusing on bilateral issues, that worked on regional issues and that now is genuinely global," he added. Ahead of his trip, the State Department said that Blinken wanted to build on the momentum of U.S.-Japan-South Korea trilateral cooperation. In Seoul on Monday, Blinken reaffirmed confidence in South Korea's handling of its political turmoil as investigators there sought an extension of a warrant to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Allies of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump have also reassured Seoul and Tokyo that he will support continuing to improve ties and advance military, economic and diplomatic cooperation to counter China and North Korea, Reuters reported ahead of Trump's Nov. 5 re-election. Tension, limited damage from Nippon Steel decision Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel filed a lawsuit on Monday charging that Biden violated the U.S. Constitution by blocking their $14.9 billion merger through what they termed a sham national security review. They called for the U.S. federal court to overturn the decision. Nicholas Szechenyi, a Japan expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Biden's decision would make Blinken's Tokyo visit "awkward." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has criticized those, in his words, spreading lies and misinformation, after coming under fire from billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk. The ally of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump accused Starmer of failing to prosecute past cases of child sexual exploitation. As Henry Ridgwell reports, its the latest in a series of interventions by Musk in European politics At a candlelight vigil for Mukesh Chandrakar, supporters called for justice for the slain journalist. Chandrakar, who was part of the Mahar community in the Indian city of Bijapur, was known for his coverage of corruption. He worked for the TV news channel NDTV and ran a YouTube channel Bastar Junction, which has 170,000 subscribers. At the vigil on Sunday, RD Jhadi, who speaks for the Mahar community, told the media, We want a safe environment for journalists so they can work freely and without fear. In the wake of the killing, the Press Club of India one of the countrys largest media associations demanded that the government pass protective measures for media workers. The body of the 33-year-old Chandrakar was discovered in a septic tank on Jan. 3. His brother had filed a missing person report to police on Jan. 1, noting that the journalist had been receiving threats. Chandrakars body showed evidence of a brutal attack, with broken ribs and fractures to the skull, according to local media reports. Chandrakar had recently investigated a road construction scam in Bijapur, which resulted in an official investigation into contractors. The state of Chhattisgarh deputy chief minister was cited in local media as saying that police suspect the murder is directly linked to the coverage. He said that the journalists report on corruption was aired on Dec. 25, and it was possible that the coverage was the reason for the attack. He added that charges are expected to be filed within a week. Chhattisgarhs chief minister, Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, condemned the murder and the state government has set up a special investigation team. So far, at least three arrests have been made. One of those is an individual identified as Suresh Chandrakar, a distant relative of the journalist who, according to local media, was allegedly upset by the state government's investigation into the construction project after the corruption was uncovered, The police tracked hours of security video and phone records before making the arrest of Suresh Chandrakar. The killing was widely condemned by media groups in India. As well as his investigations into corruption, Mukesh Chandrakar was known for his reporting on the Naxalite-Maoist insurgency in India. Gautam Lahiri, president of the Press Club of India, told VOA the case is not the first instance of a journalist being killed in Chhattisgarh. Lahiri said that the press club is demanding strict and swift action. He added that the government needs to do more to protect journalists and should act on a long-standing call for better legislation to ensure media members are safe. The Press Club of India has been raising its voice for the protection of journalists, said Lahiri, adding that the press club demands that central and state governments ensure the safety of journalists in the country. The Editors' Guild of India, in a letter, described the killing as a matter of grave concern. The guild demanded that the state government spare no efforts in investigating the case speedily and bringing the guilty to book. Media watch dogs have been expressing concerns over the declining state of press freedom in India under the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Journalists who cover corruption in remote areas are said to be the most vulnerable. At least 24 journalists have been killed in India in relation to their work in the past decade, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. The media freedom organization is investigating a further nine cases to see if reporting was a motive. Among those cases is Subhash Kumar Mahato, a reporter based in Bihar who covered illegal mining. Mahato was shot in May 2022. India ranks 159 out of 180, where 1 is the best environment on the World Press Freedom Index. Indian authorities deny any threats to press freedom and say that the media enjoys complete freedom in the country. This story originated in VOAs Urdu Service. Government officials in Zimbabwe have been scrutinizing a Chinese mining company that has been operating a gold mine in the countrys east since at least 2021. The scrutiny comes as residents voice concern about the impact on health and the environment. The company in question is Sino Africa Huijin Holdings, which faces accusations of severe environmental destruction and community harm. Its gold prospecting operations have been taking place in an area known as Premier Estate in the Mutasa District of Manicaland. Villagers and community groups have complained about the blasting that has taken place at the mine. Nearby residents have reported widespread ecological damage, including the decimation of a mountain and the displacement of wildlife. They also say tremors from the blasts have caused structural damage to homes. Residents further complain of dust pollution and the potential contamination of water sources due to alleged leaching of cyanide. Cyanide leaching is a method of extracting gold from ore that can pollute water resources. Adding to these concerns, Sino Africa is accused of forging community signatures on their Environmental Impact Assessment document, raising questions about the transparency and legitimacy of their operations. The complaints prompted the government to shut down the mines operations twice in 2024. In the past two months, however, mining has resumed. "We are between a rock and a hard place. If it's possible, let them compensate us and relocate us because it's no longer appealing," Ishewedenga Moyo, one of 30 residents living within some 300 meters of the Sino Africa Huijin mine, told VOA in December. "The vibrations and noise generated by mining blasting are disrupting wildlife habitats and ecosystems, damaging biodiversity, and causing cracks in our homes, Moyo added. Government-ordered suspensions A Manicaland Joint Command Task Force, composed of a number of government entities, ordered the temporary closure of Sino Africa Huijin's gold mining operations twice. Officials say the shutdowns were enforced to ensure the mine met all necessary requirements. The first suspension occurred in October and lasted two weeks. Sino Africa Huijin made pledges to improve the situation and was allowed to resume operations. Then, the task force ordered the mine to close a second time in mid-November. Traditional Chief James Kurauone of the Mutasa district told VOA on Dec. 11 that officials forced Sino Africa Huijing's operations to stop each time because the company failed to address critical concerns raised by the local community." These concerns that led to the temporary closure included severe air pollution, destructive blasting activities impacting local homes, and the company's failure to fulfill its corporate social responsibility obligations," said Mutasa in recent comments. Mutasa added that he plans to convene a meeting with mining officials and members from the community to discuss a path forward in a couple of weeks. Mining compliance Mining operations resumed on November 25 at the conclusion of discussions among government officials, community leaders and company representatives. Daniel Panganai, the current HR manager of Sino Africa Huijin, was involved in the discussions. He told VOA in mid-December that the company complied with all the requirements outlined in writing, but I cannot divulge much information at this time." Misheck Mugadza, the Manicaland minister of state, also said in December that Sino Africa Huijin committed to adhering to all mining and environmental regulations. He said the Chinese company had acted on its social responsibility obligations by donating to the local hospital and drilling a well to provide water to the local school. The government is closely monitoring the company's operations, Mugadza said, and some households have already received full compensation for damages. He further stated that the company is obligated to compensate all affected residents. Chinese investments in Zimbabwean mines The controversy surrounding the Sino Africa Huijin mine is not isolated, according to a September report by the Center for Natural Resource Governance, or CNRG, a Harare-based community rights organization. The report, which assessed the impact of Chinese investment on Zimbabwe's mining industry, found that Chinese mining ventures have led to widespread environmental degradation, disregard for the cultural rights of host communities, and, in many cases, the violation of the countrys labor laws, often with apparent impunity. Chinese investors control an estimated 90% of the of Zimbabwes mining industry, according to the report. In 2023 alone, Sino investments in Zimbabwes mining sector saw 121 investors contributing a staggering $2.79 billion, said CNRG Executive Director Farai Maguwu, who was quoted in a post on the organizations website. Separately, another area resident voiced criticism of the governments response to the mining. "There are times when the mine uses explosives of higher magnitude, and there will be tremors," said area resident Thobekile Mhenziwamukuru. "When we call the government officials about the crisis, they always go directly alone to the Sino mine offices without any community leaders, then they will come and address us, just saying they will use explosives of low magnitude next time and we now know that it's now their cash cow. Even in terms of closing and reopening of the mine, instead of solving our grievances, there is no fairness in everything because money is being exchanged to slow the progress and we hope higher offices in government will come to rescue us," she concluded. Maguwu accused local lawmakers of corruption, saying, Instead of enforcing the law, they are cashing in on this illegality by forcing them to close down, demanding bribes for reopening, and then returning to close them down again and demand another bribe." Despite repeated phone calls and visits to the offices of government stakeholders to address these accusations, including the Ministry of Mines and the Environmental Management Agency, VOA received no response. "This cycle goes on and on while the environment is being sacrificed," Maguwu said. Taiwan is investigating a Chinese-owned ship suspected of severing an undersea fiber-optic cable north of the island. While the incident caused minimal disruption to internet services, analysts say it reflects the vulnerability of Taiwan and its undersea infrastructure in the event of a Chinese military attack or blockade. Its a vulnerability shared by a lot of countries in a globalized world, said Drew Thompson, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore and a former Pentagon official. The real challenge for Taiwan is how do they increase their resilience now [that] there is growing awareness that they could be intentionally held vulnerable through direct attacks that are difficult to attribute to a particular actor, he told VOA by phone. Taiwans government-run telecommunications operator Chunghwa Telecom received a warning about damage to a subsea cable near the Keelung Harbor in northern Taiwan Friday morning. Chunghwa Telecom said the disruption, which didnt affect internet service across the island, may have been caused by a vessel dragging its anchor along the seabed where the undersea cable is located. Within hours, Taiwans coast guard dispatched a ship and found the Cameroon-flagged vessel Shunxin-39 in waters north of Taiwan. Taiwanese authorities ordered the ship to return to waters off Keelung Harbor for inspection but failed to board the ship due to rough weather conditions. Taipei has sought assistance from South Korea to investigate the ship, which is sailing toward the South Korean city of Busan. The Taiwanese coast guard said in a statement shared with VOA that the ship is owned by a Hong Kong company headed by a Chinese national. The seven crew members on board are Chinese nationals. In addition to carrying a Cameroon flag, Taiwanese authorities said the ship was also registered in Tanzania and seemed to operate under two sets of Automatic Identification System equipment, which shows the vessels basic information and coordinates. The coast guard said while the Chinese vessels intention remains unclear, the incident could be part of Chinas gray zone operations that aim to exert pressure on Taiwan through irregular tactics short of combat. China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly vowed to reunify with the island, with force if necessary. China has increased the frequency of its gray zone operations around Taiwan in recent years, regularly deploying military aircraft, naval vessels, and coast guard ships to airspaces and waters near Taiwan. Ray Powell, director of Stanford Universitys Sealight project, which tracks Chinese maritime activities across the Indo-Pacific region, told VOA that the Chinese vessel has been operating between in waters near Taiwans Keelung Harbor, South Koreas Busan and along the Chinese coast under two different names, two different flags, and six different identification numbers over the last six months. Having at least six different registration numbers indicates this ship is devoted to being off-grid or hard to track, he said in a phone interview. Powell said the vessel may be conducting a gray zone operation against Taiwans key infrastructure in the region. The reason we would classify the incident as a potential gray zone activity is because its hidden behind a private company based out of Hong Kong with an owner in China and flags of African countries, which keep the Chinese government from the vessels activities, he told VOA. The Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., told VOA in a written response that it is unaware of the severing of the undersea cable near northern Taiwan, adding that Beijing has always welcomed and supported other countries and telecommunications companies laying international submarine cables in waters under Chinas jurisdiction. The incident comes amid a growing number of damages to undersea cables and pipelines caused by Chinese and Russian vessels in the Baltic Sea since 2023. It is also not the first time a Chinese vessel has been suspected of cutting undersea cables near Taiwan. In February 2023, Taiwanese authorities found evidence that two Chinese ships cut two internet cables near Taiwans outlying island of Matsu, causing a month-long internet outage on the tiny island. Since then, Taiwan has poured more resources into preparing for potential internet outages caused by damage to undersea cables. Last October, Chunghwa Telecom announced that signals from low-earth orbit satellites should cover the entire island. It was part of the efforts to reduce Taiwans dependence on undersea cables for external communication. During the first tabletop military exercise held by Taiwans presidential office last month, response to internet blackouts caused by damage to undersea cables was one of the scenarios simulated by top Taiwanese officials. While Chunghwa Telecom said the cable will be fixed later this month, Taiwans Ministry of Digital Affairs has vowed to secure more funding to help the telecom operator build more facilities to increase the islands connection to international undersea cables. Some Taiwanese lawmakers also urged the coast guard to strengthen its capabilities to monitor activities in areas concentrated with undersea cables and update protocols in case similar incidents happen in the future. Some analysts say the coast guard needs to enhance its capabilities to address challenges posed by China, which have become more frequent in recent years. That includes monitoring irregular activities conducted by fishing or commercial vessels in waters near Taiwans undersea cables, said Shen Ming-shih, a defense analyst at the Taipei-based Institute for National Defense and Security Research. He told VOA in a phone interview that Taiwan should also enhance its efficiency in repairing damaged undersea cables within the shortest amount of time. Critical minerals and oil, a renewed focus on the Atlantic coast, and the Wests loss of influence in the Sahel are some of the reasons analysts believe Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has chosen the Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Chad and Namibia as the stops on his visit to Africa this week. For decades it has been tradition that Beijings top diplomat makes his first foreign foray of the year to the African continent, and each time experts try to analyse the reasons behind the specific itinerary. Its always a mix of big states and small ones. The main point of all of this is to show that China is a non-discriminatory partner; that it doesnt have 'important countries, the way Western powers would tend to cherry pick, Cobus van Staden, an editor at the China Global South Project, told VOA in a WhatsApp voice message. During his first stop in Namibia on Monday, Wang said the 35-year-old tradition of starting the year with an Africa trip shows the world that China remains Africas most reliable friend and its strongest supporteron the global stage, Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported. Namibia and minerals Namibia is Wangs southern African pit-stop this year. The country is Chinas major maritime partner on Africas Atlantic seaboard, where the largest concentration of Chinas port developments are located, Paul Nantulya, a research associate at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies in Washington, D.C., told VOA. Van Staden echoed this, noting that the last year or two there seems to have been an emphasis on the Indian Ocean, this year they seem to be rebalancing towards the Atlantic. Namibia is also rich in uranium and critical minerals like lithium, cobalt and manganese. Namibias president, Nangolo Mbumba, said at his meeting with Wang this week that Chinese investment continues to play a significant role in developing Namibias uranium sector as one of the biggest global uranium producers. Mbumba and Wang also spoke about Chinese investments in infrastructure such as a planned desalination plant. Chinese companies are also starting to build Namibias largest solar power plant this year. Republic of Congo and oil After Namibia, Wang heads next to the Republic of Congo, another Atlantic seaboard country and the incoming African co-chair of the Forum for China Africa Cooperation or FOCAC. The country, which is next to mineral-rich Congo, has untapped mineral deposits, but its economy is mainly based around oil, which accounts for some 80 percent of its exports, according to the World Bank. Van Staden said the diversification of Chinese oil imports could be part of the reason for Wangs visit to the country, as well as to the other two oil producers on the agenda: Chad and Nigeria. The Republic of Congo used to be a big oil exporter to China, but over the years Chinas diversified its oil supplies, he said. However, the Republic of Congo is trying to increase production and last year Cogo, the Congolese subsidiary of China Oil Natural Gas Overseas, announced a $150 million investment in two oil fields there. A Chinese company also holds a controversial permit to conduct oil exploration near a national park. In a September meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso in Beijing last year, the Chinese foreign ministry readout stated, China supports the Republic of the Congo in developing a diversified economy, and encourages Chinese enterprises to participate in the construction of major infrastructure and regional connectivity projects in the country. Over the years, China and its companies have been investing in major infrastructure projects in the Republic of Congo, building roads and modernizing the airport. It has gifted the country a new parliament building and construction is set to begin on a $9 billion hydropower dam this month. Chad and security Another country Wang will visit this week is Chad, the Central African nation that saw relations with Bejing elevated to a strategic partnership during last years FOCAC. Chad and its immediate neighbors play a key role in Chinas effort to secure global supply chains of critical minerals in the high-tech and clean energy sectors, including the EV industry which China dominates so far, said Nantulya. Situated in the volatile Sahel region, which has seen a spate of coups in recent years, oil-rich Chad has been under military rule since a 2021 putsch. Chad is also one of several regional countries that have asked troops belonging to former colonial power France to leave amid rising anti-French sentiment. In December, Chad ordered France to withdraw about 1,000 troops from the country, where it had long been helping to fight jihadist insurgents. The void left by the West could be Chinas gain, analysts said. It is the fifth former African French colony to remove French forces from its territory, said Nantulya of Chad. China has been showing great interest in ramping up its strategic security engagements with these countries as seen by the sharp increase in Chinese military engagement in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Senegal in particular, as well as Ivory Coast. Nigeria and trade Analysts say one of the more obvious stops on Wangs 2025 tour is Nigeria, Africas most populous country and one of its biggest economies. Cliff Mboya, a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, said trade would be a major item on the agenda. Looking at Nigeria, one of the issues that also came out strongly during the last FOCAC was market access for African products into China, and Nigeria was one of the leading countries pushing for this idea, he told VOA. So that will feature more prominently during Wang Yis visit to Nigeria. Security is also a factor, said Oluwole Ojewale, a Nigerian researcher at the Institute for Security Studies. If you also look at the things that bind Nigeria and Chad together, one of them is the counter insurgency operations that both countries have been involved in for a while now, he told VOA. Maybe the Chinese foreign affairs minister is also going to talk about security partnerships. Filling the void Ojewale added that the stops on Wangs trip can also be seen through the lens of regional geopolitical competition. Where the Western alliance and establishment have vacated in Africa, were seeing in equal proportion China or Russia in particular occupying those places supplanting the Western alliance, he said. And while such trips happen every year, Van Staden said this years trip is especially significant given that on Jan. 20th the U.S. will see a change of government when president-elect Donald Trump starts his 2nd term in office. I think the main message that [the Chinese are] trying to send is that theyre a constant partner, that theyre not fickle, he said. This message is of course reinforced right ahead of the Trump inauguration, you know, where a lot of people expect a low level of interest in Washington in relation to Africa. President Ronald Reagan is often credited with defeating the Soviet Union, in part by helping Afghan rebels, but it was the administration of President Jimmy Carter that laid the groundwork. Considered a foreign policy novice by many when he entered the White House, Carter made the early decision to provide covert aid to Afghan insurgents months before the Soviet invasion. The move offers a window into one of the defining issues of his presidency, showing a president unafraid to confront the Soviets while pursuing a policy of detente. I think peoples image of Carter as a deeply religious man, a deeply moral man, is very much influenced by the activities hes done after he left office. [But] he definitely had a ruthless side to him, and he had a side that was very willing to use force, including nuclear weapons, said David Gibbs, a history professor at the University of Arizona. The covert aid program initiated under Carter became the backbone of the Afghan insurgency, setting the stage for the Soviet Unions eventual withdrawal in 1989. In a bold move six months before the Soviets' December 1979 invasion, Carter signed a secret directive known as a presidential finding that authorized the CIA to provide nonlethal aid to rebels fighting Afghanistans Soviet-backed communist government. That finding stayed under wraps for nearly two decades, coming to light only when several Carter administration officials, including former CIA Director Robert Gates and national security adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski, disclosed its existence in the 1990s, suggesting the Carter administration aimed to lure the Soviets into a Vietnam-style quagmire. Afghan trap Brzezinskis revelations were the most striking. In a 1998 interview with a French magazine, Carters Polish-born, ardently anti-communist adviser denied provoking the Soviets but claimed the administration had knowingly increased the probability of a Soviet invasion. Calling the program an excellent idea, he said it had the effect of drawing the Russians into the Afghan trap. Although Brzezinski later disputed the accuracy of the interview and never repeated the claim, the so-called Afghan trap thesis gained traction, with critics excoriating the Carter administration for instigating the Soviet invasion and causing decades of conflict in Afghanistan. Among scholars who see the aid program as a deliberate provocation, Gibbs said he was initially loath to read too much into the Brzezinski interview before becoming convinced of its veracity. As Gibbs described it to VOA, a military aide once told historian Jonathan Haslam that Brzezinski, upon learning of the Soviet invasion, pumped his first in the air in triumph and said, Theyve taken the bait! The implication was that the decision to supply aid to the mujahideen was bait, Gibbs said. That, to me, is a strong indication that what he said is true, because it was said twice over a period of time, and its from the horses mouth. The Afghan trap thesis has permeated the works of other prominent experts, although most now dismiss it as baseless, according to historian Conor Tobin of the University College Dublin, who has researched it. The problem with the theory, Tobin argues, is that it views the Carter administrations involvement in Afghanistan through a 21st century lens, working backwards from the events of 9/11. They rely almost exclusively on Gates memoirs, the controversial French interview and other circumstantial and limited anecdotal evidence without exploring the subject in detail, and without using any other sources to corroborate the statements made, Tobin told VOA via email. A close look at recently declassified Carter-era documents tells a different story, Tobin said. It reveals that there was no attempt to ensnare the Soviet Union in the Afghan trap, and U.S. policies were in fact marginal in leading to the Soviet military intervention, he said. Nonlethal aid What is not up for debate, however, is that the aid program was launched in response to rising Soviet influence in Afghanistan. A communist coup in April 1978 toppled the government of President Mohammad Daoud. The new regime then initiated radical reforms, sparking public opposition and eventually a full-blown insurgency. According to Tobin, the Carter administration initially took a wait-and-see approach. That policy ended with the kidnapping and murder of U.S. Ambassador Adolph Dubs the following February. Brzezinski then ordered a new plan for Afghanistan. Should we help any insurgents? he asked an aide to investigate, according to Tobin. With whom would we have to work? A popular revolt in the western Afghan city of Herat, however, led to a shift in attitude in Washington and the consensus began to slide towards a more active role, Tobin wrote in his analysis, The Myth of the Afghan Trap. CIA operatives sprang into action, developing a plan of action while reaching out to U.S. allies Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Several options were formulated, ranging from small-scale propaganda campaigns and nonlethal support to lethal arms supplies and military training via a third country. After determining that military assistance may provoke vigorous Soviet countermeasures, the administration settled on nonlethal aid. The decision-making process demonstrated caution, rather than an effort to induce an invasion, Tobin wrote. On July 3, 1979, Carter authorized the CIA to provide up to $695,000 in aid to the insurgents. By mid-August, $575,000 of the funds had been allocated for cash, medical equipment and radio transmitters to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence, who then delivered them to the mujahideen, according to Tobins account. The aid program, says Tobin, was modest but significant in two key respects. It helped establish links with the mujahideen through Pakistani intelligence that would prove invaluable after the Soviet invasion. It also underscored American resolve to allies Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, reassuring them at a time when concerns about diminishing U.S. influence in the region were mounting. The aid program came against a backdrop of escalating Cold War tensions. The Iranian Revolution of February 1979 had robbed the U.S. of a key strategic ally in the region. Rather than seeking to provoke the Soviets, Brzezinski worried about a creeping intervention in Afghanistan, fearing Moscow would continue to expand its influence until a de factor invasion had taken place, Tobin wrote. The objectives in mid-1979 were essentially to do something, anything, to counter the Soviet advance in Afghanistan, Tobin said. Historian Scott Kaufman of Francis Marion University and author of a book on Carters foreign policy, said the late president also had to consider his bid for re-election the following year. He was already under attack for having lost Nicaragua to communists and for being soft on the Soviet Union, Kaufman told VOA via email. How would it look to voters if Carter, who wanted to get SALT II (Strategic Arms Limitations Talks) approved, made moves that encouraged what would be seen by them as further Soviet aggression. Carter Doctrine Kaufman took issue with the popular perception of Carter as a foreign policy novice. Though he lacked the foreign policy experience of a Richard Nixon or even Gerald Ford, Carter sat on the Trilateral Commission and had traveled overseas as governor of Georgia, Kaufman noted. That said, his support for the mujahideen reflected a foreign policy that since at least 1978 reflected a hardening insofar as U.S. policy toward the Soviet Union, he said. Carters tougher stance, Kaufman said, was driven by growing anti-Soviet sentiment in Congress, Brzezinskis influence, and his personal disdain for Soviet repression and machinations. This does not mean that he had given up on seeking detente with the Soviets, as reflected by his desire to get SALT II ratified, he said. But his foreign policy vis-a-vis the U.S.S.R. (Soviet Union) demonstrated a preparedness to take a harder line. Nothing demonstrated Carter's resolve more forcefully than the Carter Doctrine, his bold Persian Gulf policy adopted in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Unveiling the new policy during his 1980 State of the Union address, Carter warned that the U.S. was prepared to use any means necessary to prevent a Soviet takeover of the Persian Gulf region. With the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the Carter administration upped the ante. On December 28, 1979, the day after Soviet commandos assassinated Afghan President Hafizullah Amin in Kabul, Carter signed a new finding that authorized the supply of weapons and training for the mujahideen. The first batch of weapons arrived in Pakistan in less than two weeks. Carter went on to lose the 1980 election to Reagan, whose administration largely continued Carters Afghan policy for several years before dramatically building up the covert aid program to the tune of several hundred million dollars a year. Instead of merely harassing the Soviets, the Reagan administration sought its defeat, according to Tobin. The criticism of the Carter administration as weak on defense, therefore, is unjustified, with Carter largely laying the groundwork for the renewed global containment of the 1980s, Tobin said. So, despite enduring orthodox assessments of Carter as a foreign policy failure, he departed office in January 1981 leaving a clear foreign policy direction for the incoming Reagan administration that arguably contributed to the end of the Cold War a decade later an outcome that was almost incomprehensible as the Carter administration took office in January 1977. Israels military said Tuesday it carried out raids in the occupied West Bank, killing at least three militants and arresting 18 others. The Israel Defense Forces said an airstrike killed two militants in the village of Tamun after they fired at troops. Israeli forces killed another militant during fighting in Taluza, while an Israeli soldier was wounded. The raids came a day after gunman attacked a bus and car near the West Bank town of Al-Funduq, killing three people and wounding seven others. 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. The war in Gaza began with the October 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. Over nine million children are currently out of school across Ethiopia due to conflict, violence and natural disasters, with more than 6,000 schools shut down, according to the United Nations. In a report published on Thursday, the United Nations Childrens Fund, or UNICEF, said the highest numbers of out-of-school children are found in the Amhara region with 4.4 million, followed by the Oromia region with 3.2 million, and the Tigray region with about 1.2 million children. UNICEF said Ethiopias education sector has been devastated because of conflicts, natural disasters and internal displacement. Over 10,000 schools, representing 18% of schools across the country, have been damaged by conflict and climate shocks, further reducing the availability of safe and functional learning spaces, the report said. Yohannes Wogasso, the head of educational programs and quality improvement at the Ethiopia Ministry of Education, said the U.N. figure does not reflect the ministrys own data and may be a result of different definitions of "out-of-school student. He said, I think the discrepancy may arise from the fact that they are not collecting real-time data, as it often takes a long time to gather accurate data." Fighting forces children from class Conflict has forced the closure of many schools in the Amhara and Oromia regions, where rebel groups are fighting government forces. On Sept. 18, two teachers were killed in the Sinan district of East Gojam in the Amhara region, which created fear and concern among the regions school workers, education workers said. Without naming a particular group, the local administration at the time accused armed groups who swear in the name of the Amhara people of being behind the killing. The Amhara rebel group known as Fano denies targeting the teachers and civilians but admits its against the reopening of some schools for the safety of students and community. Headscarf dispute at Tigray region school Meanwhile, some public schools in the ancient Tigray city of Axum have banned Islamic headscarves, forcing 159 female students to miss school, Muslim organizations in Ethiopia said. The Tigray regions Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council said Axum schools move to block Muslim female students who wear the headscarf undermines the values of religious tolerance in the country, where different religions respect each other. The council alleged that Muslim girl students are being threatened, arrested and pressured by the police to remove their hijab. Ethiopias Ministry of Education allows Muslim female students to wear headscarves in schools. The Islamic affairs council said the actions of Axum schools are not acceptable. While my classmates are at school, I am at home, said a 12th-grade student at Axum Secondary School, one of the schools that imposed the ban, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of repercussions. She said she wishes that authorities would reconsider their decision. Because of the war in Tigray, I didnt go to school for three years, and now, because of the hijab, said another 10th-grader, who also requested anonymity for safety reasons. Going to school at this time is scary; the police are arresting and threatening female Muslim students who wear the hijab around the school. Kindeya Elementary School is another school that refused attendance of students wearing headscarves, parents said. Nuruya Mohamed, 55, is the mother of four daughters. Three of them are students at Kindeya Elementary School, the fourth in Axum Secondary School. She said all her four daughters are now staying at home because they are scared of the authorities. I have never seen female Muslim students with hijabs being blocked from school in my life, Nuruya said. The schools have defended their stance. Schools are not religious or political areas, said Axum Secondary School Vice Director Gebremeskel Gebregziabher. He added that students are not allowed to enter school with religious symbols or dress, a policy that has been in place for decades. Some support for the ban The school has the support of some of the parents. Mulu Tamene, the mother of a sixth-grade student at Kindeya Elementary School, believes that banning headscarves in schools is justified. Schools should not be religious spaces. Students can wear the hijab up to the school entrance, but they should remove it once inside, she said. Natnael Fitsum, a former Axum student, said that during his time in school between 1999 to 2010, teachers would remove the hijab and other headscarves from students, he said, adding that its common for schools in Axum to ban the hijab. A source from the Education Bureau in Axum who requested anonymity as he is not allowed to speak with media, told VOA that out of the 15 schools in Axum, four have banned the wearing of the hijab. However, the students said they wore the hijab when attending schools in previous years, including last year. Contacted by VOA, the head of the public relations department at Ethiopia's Ministry of Education, Mesfin Bogale, said, This issue concerns the regional education bureau. The mayor of Axum, the head of the citys education office and the head of the Tigray Education Bureau did not answer calls from VOA. This must be resolved urgently, the Ethiopia Islamic Affairs Supreme Council said. This story originated in VOA's Horn of Africa Service. Thousands continued their blockade of a crucial Pakistani trade route with China for a fifth day on Tuesday, protesting chronic, prolonged power outages in the mountainous region. The organizers of the sit-in demonstration in Hunza, a picturesque city with a population of more than 70,000, have pledged to remain in place until their demands are met. Rally leaders emphasized the towns persistent inadequate power supply, noting that residents endure up to 23-hour electricity outages amid a harsh winter season. Both men and women participated in the protest, braving average daytime temperatures of -4 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures of -10 degrees Celsius, as reported by rally participants to VOA via phone. Rahim Aman, a Hunza resident, reported a gradual and substantial increase in protesters, saying female activists were seen using vehicles and loudspeakers to encourage participation in the rally. He said representatives of local political parties, traders and hotel associations were also present. Local authorities negotiated with the protesters but failed to persuade them to disperse and restore traffic flow along the Karakoram Highway connecting Pakistan to China. Hunza is situated on the scenic roadway traversing the Gilgit-Baltistan region, bordering Chinas western Xinjiang province. Traders reported that numerous containers carrying commercial goods were stuck on both sides of the highway due to the sit-in demonstration. The crippling protest erupted more than a month after Pakistan and China announced that they would keep open their sole land port, the Khunjerab Pass, for year-round operations to foster trade connectivity between the two nations. The worlds highest paved border crossing, approximately 190 kilometers from Hunza, stands at an elevation exceeding 4,600 meters and was previously closed for four months annually due to heavy snowfall. The impoverished Gilgit-Baltistan region heavily relies on hydropower, but generation almost ceases during the winter months due to the freezing of rivers and lakes. Consequently, residents and business establishments, including hotels, must operate expensive thermal generators to maintain power supply. Residents and area experts have noted that the growing use of such generators by major hotels and other commercial entities is damaging the atmosphere in Hunza and surrounding areas. The United Nations reports that the Pakistani regions are home to some of the largest stretches of glaciers outside the northern pole and already face the growing threat of global warming. The Khunjerab Pass is an integral component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC. The multibillion-dollar corridor seeks to establish a comprehensive trade and transit infrastructure between the two nations, the most populous and fifth-most populous in the world. Beijing has invested more than $25 billion in Pakistan since the two countries launched the CPEC a decade ago and is eager to use Gwadar, a Chinese-managed Pakistani port on the Arabian Sea, as a strategic gateway to international markets. Ukraines military said Tuesday it shot down 28 of 38 Russian drones that targeted areas of central and eastern Ukraine overnight. The Ukrainian air force said the intercepts took place over the Cherkasy, Kharkiv, Kherson, Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, Poltava and Sumy regions. Kherson Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said the attacks injured one person. Russias Defense Ministry said Tuesday it destroyed one Ukrainian drone over the Belgorod region. On Monday, the Russian military said its forces captured an important town in eastern Ukraine, while Ukrainian officials cited tens of thousands of Russian casualties in the fighting in Russias Kursk region. The Russian Defense Ministry said its control of the town of Kurakhove after several months of fighting for the logistics hub will allow the Russian military to more quickly advance elsewhere in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian officials did not confirm the loss of Kurakhove on Monday, with the militarys General Staff saying in a late Monday report that Russian forces had launched attacks on Ukrainian positions in the town. Russian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Monday that the Ukrainian offensive in Kursk, which began five months ago, had caused 38,000 Russian military casualties. The Russians have deployed their strongest units to Kursk, including soldiers from North Korea. Importantly, all this manpower cannot now be redirected to other fronts neither to the Donetsk region, nor against Sumy, the Kharkiv region or Zaporizhzhia, Zelenskyy said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier 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. Some information for this report was provided by from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters BANGKOK, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Thailand received over 35.54 million foreign tourists in 2024, a rise of 26.27 percent from a year earlier, thanks to eased entry rules and visa exemption measures, official data showed on Tuesday. With 6.73 million arrivals, Chinese tourists made up the largest source market for the Southeast Asian country last year, followed by 4.95 million from Malaysia and 2.12 million from India, according to the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Thailand generated approximately 1.67 trillion baht (about 48.45 billion U.S. dollars) in revenue from international tourists in 2024, representing a 34 percent increase from the previous year, the ministry said in a statement. Starting in January, visitors to Thailand can apply for an electronic visa through an online system available at all Thai embassies and consulates-general worldwide, ensuring a streamlined application process and convenient online payment options. Currently, tourists from 93 countries and territories are allowed to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, including those from key markets such as China, India, South Korea and Russia. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the kingdom aims to attract up to 39 million international tourists this year, with a projected tourism receipt of 2.23 trillion baht (about 64.71 billion dollars). In pre-pandemic 2019, Thailand welcomed a record 39.9 million foreign arrivals, generating 1.91 trillion baht (about 55.42 billion dollars) in revenue. Tourism, a key driver of the nation's economic growth, accounted for 14.16 percent of gross domestic product and 11.33 percent of employment in the second quarter of 2024. With temperatures dipping below freezing this week in Moldova's Russian-backed breakaway region of Transnistria, the end of an agreement to ship natural gas from Russia through Ukraine has led to rolling blackouts, idle factories and a lack of hot water. Ukraine decided not to renew a five-year gas transfer deal with Russia's state-controlled energy giant Gazprom. The agreement, which was negotiated before the February 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, allowed natural gas shipments across Ukrainian territories to countries in Europe. Before the war, Russian pipelines supplied 40% of Europe's natural gas. Now, that figure is about 8%, according to data from the European Commission. Ukraines energy minister, Herman Halushchenko, confirmed Kyiv had stopped the transit in the interest of national security," according to The Associated Press. The European Commission has repeatedly emphasized that ending the transfer of Russian natural gas across Ukraine was not a surprise and that countries had time to prepare for it. But in Transnistria, a sliver of territory wedged between the Dniester River and the Ukrainian border, the end of the agreement is a serious matter. The pro-Russia separatist enclave, which fought against Moldova in 1992, declared a state of emergency over the end of the shipments. Moldovas Foreign Ministry told VOA in a statement that parts of the country west of the Dniester River which includes most of Moldovas population and the nations capital, Chisinau was preparing to stop supplies from Russia and has been buying gas on European markets, albeit at a higher price. Moldovan authorities said they offered to help the breakaway region obtain gas from European markets. In response, Transnistrias Foreign Ministry claimed Moldova was attempting "to manipulate public opinion by providing false information." In a statement issued on January 6, it said: "Transnistria has not received any specific forms of assistance or adequate practical support from the Moldovan side. There is none today." Moldova's pro-Western prime minister, Dorin Recean, said that by "jeopardizing the future of the protectorate it has supported for three decades in an attempt to destabilize Moldova, Russia is demonstrating the inevitable outcome for all its allies: betrayal and isolation." "We view this as a security crisis aimed at allowing pro-Russian forces to return to power in Moldova and use our territory as a weapon against Ukraine, with which we share a 1,200-kilometer border," Recean said. "The Moldovan government remains committed to supporting all citizens with simple solutions for those in the Transnistrian region. Alternative energy solutions such as biomass systems, generators, humanitarian aid and basic medical supplies are ready to be delivered if the separatist leadership accepts support," he added. Oazu Nantoi, a member of the Moldovan parliament, said he also believes that Transnistria is refusing help from official Moldovan authorities on the Kremlin's orders. Nantoi told VOA that most of Moldova is supplied until March. "There, we are no longer dependent on Gazprom's monopoly. We can buy gas at market prices," he said. "Sometimes these prices bite, but Gazprom cannot influence consumption." Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, who insists he won the July presidential election against incumbent president Nicolas Maduro, said his son-in-law was kidnapped Tuesday morning in the capital, Caracas. In a statement on X, Gonzalez said Rafael Tudares was abducted as he was taking his children to school. "Rafael was on his way to my grandchildren's school to drop them off for the start of classes, he was intercepted by hooded men, dressed in black, they put him in a gold-colored van," Gonzalez said in the statement on X. Gonzalez did not provide any information on the status of his grandchildren, whom the Associated Press reports are 6 and 7 years old. The abduction comes as tensions are mounting in Venezuela. Both Gonzalez and Maduro claim to have won the presidential election. Maduro has continued to claim victory in Venezuela's July election, even though electoral authorities did not provide detailed vote counts following the election. The opposition said its collection of tally sheets from more than 80% of Venezuela's electronic voting machines prove that Gonzalez was the clear winner. Gonzalez has visited several countries in the Americas recently as he seeks to rally support for his effort to oust Maduro. On Monday, he met with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House. The U.S., most European countries and several Latin American countries have rejected Maduro's claims to victory, which have been recognized by Venezuela's top court and electoral authority. Gonzalez, who has been living in exile in Spain since the election, has promised to return to Venezuela on Friday for the presidential inauguration. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said Monday that Gonzalez would be "arrested and tried if he sets foot in Venezuela." Venezuela is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Gonzalez. The controversial presidential election sparked mass protests that left nearly 30 people dead and more than 2,000 arrested. Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday held an omnibus press conference at his Florida estate, where he explained his stances on key foreign policy issues as he prepares to take office in two weeks. He forcefully called for the release of hostages seized in Israel more than a year ago by the militant group Hamas, saying six times that "all hell will break loose" otherwise. Hamas, which the United States considers a terrorist organization, dug in on its top demand in ongoing negotiations that Israel ends its assault and withdraw from Gaza. At a news conference in Algiers, Hamas official Osama Hamdan blamed Israel for stymieing a deal. When asked to respond to Trump's comments, Hamdan replied, "I think the U.S. president must make more disciplined and diplomatic statements." The Palestinian group's stunning terror attack on civilians in Israel sparked a brutal conflict that has since inflamed the region and killed tens of thousands of civilians. Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, had moments before joined the president-elect at the podium to brief reporters on his recent high-level talks in the region, saying his team is "on the verge" of a deal and that he would travel back in coming days. "I don't want to hurt your negotiation," Trump told Witkoff, "but if they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East, and it will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone." On Ukraine, he expressed interest in meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and repeated his vow to get the conflict in Ukraine "straightened out." Trump has not explained how he would do this. When asked about a key demand in Ukraine's peace plan that it be allowed to join NATO Trump said, "My view is that it was always understood" that Ukraine would not be admitted to the security alliance. He repeated his tariff threats against Canada and Mexico, his line that Canada should be a U.S. state, and he floated a name change, saying: "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America." Thessalia Merivaki, an associate teaching professor at Georgetown University, said Trump often uses bluster as a strategy. "So, Trump has a record of just floating controversial ideas and positions to attract attention and generate interest and media coverage," she said. Foreign policy Trump has not said how the U.S. will acquire control of Greenland, the large North American island that is an autonomous territory of Denmark. On Tuesday, he repeated his stance that "we need them for economic security." When asked directly if he would commit to not use military or economic coercion to back his increasingly voluble desire for control of Greenland and also the Panama Canal, Trump replied, "I can't assure you on either of those two." Trump has accused Panama of violating the treaty under which the U.S. ceded control of the famous canal more than four decades ago under former President Jimmy Carter. "Giving the Panama Canal to Panama was a very big mistake," Trump said. "Giving that away was a horrible thing, and I believe that's why Jimmy Carter lost the election." Trump added that he liked Carter "as a man." He is expected to attend Carter's national funeral Thursday in Washington. President Joe Biden will deliver the eulogy. First day and beyond Trump also said he would be "making major pardons" on his first day in office, when asked about his previous vow to issue clemency to some of the more than 1,500 people charged with crimes in connection to the riot on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. He also repeated past commitments to loosen what he called the "quagmire" of U.S. environmental regulations and smooth the path for billionaire investors. He described his re-election victory as a "landslide" for winning the Electoral College and the popular vote, although official results show he did not win the majority of the ballots, as third-party candidates shaved off votes. He promised to have future election results counted earlier on election night. He repeated his vow to "drill, baby, drill" on his first day in office by reversing Biden's recent orders seeking to protect against offshore drilling. He accused Biden of botching foreign policy, saying, "Now, I'm going into a world that's burning." Trump will assume office on January 20. VOA White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara contributed to this story from Washington. Some information for this story came from Reuters. The eldest son of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Greenland on Tuesday for a private visit that heightened speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to take control of the mineral-rich Danish territory. The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jr.'s plane landed in Nuuk, capital of the vast and icy territory that has some 57,000 residents. Local media broadcast footage of him walking across a snowy tarmac. In a statement, Greenland's government said that Trump Jr.'s visit would take place "as a private individual" and not as an official visit and that Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Greenland is an autonomous territory that's part of Denmark. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland Foreign Affairs department, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr.'s delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect recently voiced a desire also expressed during his first presidency to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the United States, China, Russia and others. The world's largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is home to a large U.S. military base. It is 80% covered by an ice sheet. "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," the president-elect posted on his social media site Monday night, referring to his "Make America Great Again" slogan. "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation," Trump wrote. "We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!" Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Year's speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland and called the United States Denmark's most important ally. Denmark's King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdom's rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Last month, the king changed Denmark's coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with a red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms "visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch." "We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark," the king said in his New Year's address, adding: "all the way to Greenland." During his first term, the U.S. president-elect mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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." Trump's eldest son has become a prominent player in his father's political movement and has served on his presidential transition team, helping to select the people who will staff the incoming White House. A U.S. judge temporarily blocked Special Counsel Jack Smith from releasing a report on his investigations into President-elect Donald Trump for his mishandling of classified documents and attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, a court order showed on Tuesday. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, who presided over the now-dismissed case accusing Trump of illegally holding onto classified documents, directed the Justice Department not to release the report until a federal appeals court rules on a request from Trump's two former co-defendants in the case. Lawyers for the co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, who were charged with obstructing the documents investigation, moved late Monday to block release of the report. Nauta and De Oliveira argued the report would improperly interfere in their case, which remains ongoing. Smith led both the classified documents case against Trump and a second prosecution accusing Trump of attempting to overturn his defeat in the 2020 election. Both cases have since been dropped. Trump, who dismissed the federal probe and the two other criminal investigations he faced as a politically motivated attempt to block him from returning to power, said he welcomed the news. "It was a fake case against a political opponent," Trump told reporters at his Florida resort on Tuesday. "If they're not allowed to issue the report, that's the way it should be ... that's great news." A spokesperson for Smith's office declined to comment on the order. Justice Department regulations require Smith, who plans to wrap up his probe before Trump returns to office on Jan. 20, to submit a final report to Attorney General Merrick Garland. Garland has previously pledged to make public all reports from special counsels during his tenure. Prosecutors said in a court filing earlier on Tuesday that Garland, who appointed Smith, had not yet decided how to handle the portion of the report that relates to the classified documents case. Cannon, a Trump appointee, dismissed the case against Trump and his two co-defendants in July 2024 after ruling that Smith was improperly appointed. Prosecutors are appealing the ruling as it pertains to Nauta and De Oliveira. U.N. human rights chief Volker Turk expressed alarm Tuesday at the sharp increase in executions in Iran and called on the Islamic Republic to halt all further executions of people facing the death penalty for a range of crimes. It is deeply disturbing that yet again we see an increase in the number of people subjected to the death penalty in Iran year-on-year, Turk said in a statement. It is high time Iran stemmed this ever-swelling tide of executions. According to the high commissioners office, at least 901 people reportedly were executed in 2024, including some 40 in one week in December. It says the highest number of executions in recent decades was reached in 2015 when at least 972 individuals were executed in Iran. After a decline in the number of executions, it notes that the numbers have risen sharply since 2022. At least 853 people were executed in 2023, Liz Throssell, spokesperson for the high commissioner, told journalists at a briefing in Geneva, adding that the 2024 number of 901 executions is alarmingly, shockingly high. The human rights office reports that most of the executions last year were for drug-related offenses, but that dissidents and people connected to the 2022 protests also were executed. Thats a reference to the nationwide protests that erupted following the Sept. 16, 2022, death in police custody of Mahsa Amini, who was arrested by the so-called morality police for the alleged improper wearing of the hijab. The International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, which presented a report to the U.N. human rights council in March 2024 found credible figures of up to 551 deaths, including at least 49 women and 68 children had occurred in 26 out of the 31 provinces of Iran over multiple months. Throssell said there was a rise in the number of women executed last year. We understand that at least 31 women were reportedly executed in 2024. Now, that marks the highest number in 15 years. The majority of cases involve charges of murder. A significant number of the women were victims of domestic violence, child marriage or forced marriage. A number of them were convicted of murdering their husbands, she said, adding that The method of execution, we understand, is by hanging. She said it was difficult to know how much recourse people accused of crimes had to the judicial system because of the opacity of the system in Iran. I mean, people will have lawyers, but it is very hard to determine how free and fair a particular trial may be, she said. So, this is why we believe it is so important to be speaking out on the executions and also to highlight that there are people who are awaiting execution, who are on death row. We are concerned because of this lack of transparency around what happens in Iran with regard to the sentencing and the carrying out of the death penalty, she said. Human Rights chief Turk doubled down on his concerns by urging Iranian authorities to place a moratorium on the use of the death penalty with a view to ultimately abolishing it. We oppose the death penalty under all circumstances, he said. It is incompatible with the fundamental right to life and raises the unacceptable risk of executing innocent people. And, to be clear, it can never be imposed for conduct that is protected under international human rights law, he asserted. International standards prohibit the imposition of the death penalty for any but the most serious crimes crimes of extreme gravity, involving intentional killing and may be imposed only when the guilt of the person charged is based upon clear and convincing evidence leaving no room for an alternative explanation of the facts. 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 toward 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. 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. 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. The Biden administration on Monday removed obstacles to Indias quest for nuclear power, with U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan visiting New Delhi and describing the India-U.S. collaboration as crucial for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. VOA White House correspondent Anita Powell asks what lies ahead for the countries as Donald Trump returns to the U.S. presidency. De facto Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa whose Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) fighters drove President Bashar al-Assad from power last month recently met with the Mideast nation's Christian leadership after a string of menacing attacks on religious minorities, giving some observers hope the sanctioned militants are ushering in an era of greater inclusion and tolerance, though others remain skeptical. Protests broke out in Syria over the Dec. 23 burning of a Christmas tree in a Christian-majority town in Hama amid other reports of harassment, prompting calls for the new Islamist authorities to take steps to safeguard ethnic minorities. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), an independent U.K.-based human rights organization, Uzbek gunmen set fire to the Christmas tree in Al-Saqilibiya in Hama... that is inhabited by Christian residents. The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency reported on Sharaas meeting with Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican clerics, including publishing pictures from the event. Syrian Catholic Archbishop Jacques Mourad of Homs, who attended the meeting, said Sharaa avoided using the term minority, according to France-based La Croix International, a general-interest Catholic publication. He said that Christians and other groups are part of the Syrian people, the archbishop told La Croix. He is aware that we Christians are foundational to this country. Hope and skepticism Rafif Jouejati, nonresident scholar at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, expressed optimism about the public rallies to demand accountability. "If you watch the demonstrations taking place in Syria, you see immediately that people are out freely expressing their views," she told VOA. "This is not something we've been able to do in half a century." She also shared her belief that Syria is moving in the right direction, dismissing concerns about a country transitioning to an Islamist state. But others aren't so sure. Richard Ghazal, executive director of In Defense of Christians, told VOA there was no difference [between HTS] and their organizational predecessor, Jabhat al-Nusra, which is the Nusra Front, al-Qaida or even [Islamic State]. They've taken the lessons from the mistakes of ISIS and al-Qaida," he said, using another term for Islamic State, which is also known as ISIS, ISIL, IS or Daesh. "They've used those to polish their message, their media engagement, and try to fool the West if not convince the West." Although Sharaa was quick to emphasize the language of tolerance upon ousting Assad from power, declaring a Syria for everyone the day after taking Damascus, Ghazal says how they will govern remains to be seen. Jouejati points to 2016, when HTS leaders distanced themselves from more radical militant groups. "They have shown themselves to be far more moderate than their Islamist counterparts," she said. "We're observing a gradual shift away from any semblance of an Islamic dictatorship. Increasingly, they are beginning to resemble civilians more than soldiers." Sanctions U.S. officials recently lifted a $10 million bounty on Sharaa, a decision that top U.S. diplomat for the Middle East Barbara Leaf called a "policy decision" aimed at facilitating engagement with HTS. U.N. Syria envoy Geir Pedersen in late December expressed hope for a swift end to the U.N. sanctions on Sharaas organization to help facilitate Syria's economic recovery. But Syria's economic rebound, say some observers, also requires an inclusive constitutional framework. The main challenge today, of course, is putting together a government that is in accordance and in adherence with U.N. resolution 2254, said Ghazal said, which calls for a new Syrian government that actively involves the Syrian people and putting that government together with full sight and visibility to the international community and full transparency." Jouejati envisions Syria evolving into a "Middle Eastern-style democracy." I believe we will have a country that is based on ... all human rights. I believe we have an opportunity to establish a state that is grounded on the rule of law, that incorporates transitional justice, that has free and fair elections, that has a separation of powers, and perhaps most importantly, a separation of religion and state, she said. The 2023 U.S. Department of State Report on International Religious Freedom regarding Syria notes that approximately 2.5% of the population remaining in the country are Christians. Ghazal said he anticipates a new wave of emigration. Signs of intolerance Despite calls for inclusion by HTS leadership, Ghazal said signs of intolerance are already evident, including a ban on alcohol, the separation of women from men in public transport, and the presence of the Islamic State flags near some Damascus suburbs. This is very alarming that we're seeing this in Christian neighborhoods, he told VOA. Signs like this tell you that while violence has not been witnessed on a large scale just yet, I'm afraid it may be looming in the future." Jouejati emphasized the importance of unity and a shared Syrian identity for the country's future. I believe that right now [the] minorities biggest problem is their own fears, she told VOA. We have seen and heard and, we've seen examples of this complete willingness to accept that there are Christian and other minorities. We have seen them being very respectful of everybody, not just minorities. Nadine Maenza, of the Washington-based International Religious Freedom Secretariat, recorded at least a dozen eyewitness accounts of attacks on religious and ethnic minorities in the Shehba region outside Aleppo in late December. Both HTS and the Turkish-backed militias have a history of severe religious violations against [minorities], she told VOA. Atrocities are continuing against Kurds, Yazidis, Christians, and other religious minorities, but particularly we are seeing them from the Turkish-backed Islamist militias. Ghazal said he anticipates an exodus of religious minorities from the country. "The only reason the Christians who are currently in Syria have not migrated west to Europe, to the United States, Australia, it's not because they haven't wanted to, he told VOA. It's simply because they haven't had the opportunity. And that's the tragic part." Jouejati, however, described the reports of harassment as isolated cases rather than a consistent pattern of broader intolerance. I have seen some individual incidents where spoilers have instigated trouble, but Ive also seen communities banding together, she told VOA. Syrian Sunnis, who make up the majority, are reaching out to their Kurdish and Alawite and Christian and other counterparts to join hands. And I'm seeing an overwhelmingly positive response to being free of the Assad regime. Asked to comment about Sharaa's direct engagement with Christian leaders, Italian Archbishop Mario Zenari, the popes envoy to Syria, said the fact of the meeting itself speaks volumes. This event would have been unimaginable only three weeks ago and the bishops and priests ... left with a sense of hope for Syria's future, Zenari, who met with Syria's top diplomat last month, told Vatican News. This story originated in VOA's Armenian Service. In a major shift in West Africa's security landscape, Ivory Coast and Senegal, regional economic powerhouses, have ordered France to remove its troops from their territories. The withdrawals will mark the effective end of a decadeslong military presence by France in Senegal and Ivory Coast. But why is this happening? Geoffroy Julien Kouao, an Ivorian political scientist, explained that it is part of a broader strategy by African nations wanting to forge new partnerships. I think that African politicians want to diversify their relations, especially with the countries of the global south, such as China, Turkey, Brazil, the Arab monarchies of the Gulf, but also with Russia, he said. Ivory Coast and Senegal are following in the footsteps of Sahel countries that are fighting a war against jihadis linked to Islamic State and al-Qaida. After almost 10 years of French military involvement failed to stop escalating terrorist violence in the Sahel, the former colonial power began removing its troops from the region in 2022. Coastal countries like Senegal and Ivory Coast are part of the new dynamic initiated by the Sahel states, such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Chad, Kouao said. These countries are looking for more sovereignty and above all [politicians] dont want to go against public opinion, which favors the departure of French troops. Public opinion in West Africa has become critical of French and Western military presence in the region. Many see it as a continuation of colonial ties. It has even become the source of debunked conspiracy theories that France is supporting terrorist groups. Rinaldo Depagne, West Africa project director for the International Crisis Group, doubts the French military departure will improve security in Senegal and Ivory Coast, which border the Sahel countries and have seen terrorist attacks spilling over from them. The expansion of jihadism in the north of the coastal countries has been slow, but fairly constant since 2020, Depagne said. It is not certain that the departure of French troops, and more broadly of foreign troops, will make a big difference, except perhaps in terms of information. Asked if Senegal and Ivory Coast could seek military partnerships with Russia, as some Sahel countries have, Depagne said that.the presence of French troops in the Sahel between 2013 and 2022 did not restore security, and that the Russian troops currently engaged in the Sahel havent done any better. He said that this is largely because the solution to Sahelian armed jihadism is not only military but also political. Analyst Andrew Lebovich, a research fellow at the Clingendael Institute in the Netherlands, noted that as French troops depart West Africa, France continues to train troops fighting terrorism. Certainly, French troops are going to remain involved in training and cooperation in Cote dIvoire, in Benin, likely in a few other places, so its not an end to the post-colonial military presence, but it certainly is an important shift, he said. Other Western nations are offering military assistance to coastal West African countries. The U.S. will hold its annual West African military exercise, Flintlock, in Ivory Coast this year. SYDNEY, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- An investigation has been underway after a man died in a house fire in northeastern Australia. Police in the state of Queensland said in a statement on Tuesday that emergency services were called to the fire in the small town of Warwick, 130 km southwest of Brisbane, at 9:45 p.m. local time on Monday. Firefighters deployed to the scene were able to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby properties and a subsequent search of the house located a 20-year-old man deceased inside. "Two dogs also died as a result of the fire," Queensland Police said. A firefighter told Seven Network television that smoke in the house was thick, making the chances of surviving without a breathing apparatus very low. Queensland Police said that a crime scene has been declared and an investigation launched into the cause of the fire. 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. Dianne Elizabeth Tomoson, aged 80, of Evansville and formerly of Alexandria, died on March 6th. Kelsie (l) and Justin (r) along with baby Rose (c) are seen at Alomore Health in Alexandria. Rose was the first baby more in the new year at Alomore Health. (Photo courtesy: Alomore Health) A pictures worth a thousand words. Or at least three. Photo: American Music Awards If youre asking a superstar, whos going through a lot personally, about a meme where people are essentially making fun of them, its expected to be awkward, at the very minimum. So when Argentinan interviewer Javier Ponzone asked Jennifer Lopez if they could say the phrase Mi Gente Latino, in reference to the meme, at a press junket, thankfully, Lopez smiled and sought clarification. Can you explain to me why thats funny? Lopez asked before giggling. Much to Lopezs relief, Ponzone tried explaining how it became an iconic meme in the Latino community, and she breathed a sigh of relief a little too early. I thought they were making fun of me, Lopez laughed before reminding us shes from New York. Sorry Jen, people still kind of are teasing; the phrase is supposed to be mi gente latina, but the meme has transcended the need for language correction. Its now more of just a fun way to celebrate Latin American wins. And whats more of a mi gente Latino moment than J.Lo repeating the phrase for old-times sake? PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia and Singapore announced an agreement on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) here on Tuesday, with the goal of supporting investment and allowing free movement of goods and people between the two countries. The agreement was revealed during a visit to Malaysia by Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who met his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim for the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders' Retreat, which began on Jan. 6 and lasted for two days. In a joint press briefing, Anwar stressed that both Malaysia and Singapore are politically stable, with clear economic policies aimed at attracting investments. He also noted that both governments are selective in ensuring investments align with future demands and priorities. For his part, Wong said the initiative sends a message to investors to consider the complementarities between Johor and Singapore and the many advantages offered by the entire SEZ ecosystem. He said there are many strengths that both sides can harness to enhance the SEZ's value proposition, making it more competitive and attractive for businesses to operate. Earlier, Anwar and Wong witnessed the exchange of the joint agreement between Malaysia and Singapore on the SEZ along with other memorandums of understanding. Move coincides with the Jubilee Year in Rome. Rome is to boost security in the area around the central Termini train station and in the surrounding Esquilino district as part of a crackdown on crime. The measures were announced on Tuesday after a meeting of the provincial committee for public order and security, attended by the city's prefect Lamberto Giannini and mayor Roberto Gualtieri. Authorities also said they are assessing the possibility of increasing security in streets around Tuscolana train station, with more details set to be announced in the coming days. Italian media reported recently that Italy's interior ministry was preparing to declare the area around Termini a zona rossa, or "red zone", which would give police greater powers to expel criminals from the area. However Gualtieri on Tuesday spoke out against this approach, saying that "red zones come and go and simply risk moving illegal activity from one part of the city to another". Instead the mayor pointed to putting structural measures in place to raise security in the city, adding that he believed Rome should be "a large zona bianca [white zone] where everyone can move around safely". The stepping up of security coincides with the Vatican's Jubilee Year which will see an estimated influx of more than 32 million visitors in Rome, many of whom will pass through Termini. Photo credit: BalkansCat / Shutterstock.com. Vatican hails "very significant" start to Jubilee Year. More than half a million people have passed through the Holy Door at St Peter's in the first two weeks since Pope Francis launched the Vatican's Jubilee Year on Christmas Eve. A total of 545,532 people from around the world filed along Via della Conciliazione and entered the Holy Door between 24 December and 7 January, the Vatican said in a statement on Tuesday. Hailing it as "a very significant beginning", the Vatican's chief Jubilee organiser Archbishop Rino Fisichella said it was also "a sign of the great perception of safety and security that pilgrims experience in the city of Rome and around the four papal basilicas." In addition to St Peter's, the faithful arriving in Rome can enter through holy doors at St Paul Outside the Walls, St Mary Major and St John Lateran for the duration of the Jubilee Year, an event that takes place every 25 years. Passing through the holy doors offers pilgrims the chance of obtaining a plenary indulgence, defined by the Catholic Church as the remission of temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven. The Vatican said it expects "a steady increase in pilgrim turnout", with pilgrims encouraged to book their visit in advance via the official Jubilee website, due to the high demand. In excess of 30 million people are expected to arrive in Rome during the holy year whose first major event is the Jubilee for Communication, scheduled on 24-26 January. Ambrit International School will host an Open Day on Saturday, 1st February 2025, from 10:00 to 12:00 at its campus on Via Filippo Tajani, 50, Rome. This event is designed for prospective students and their families, offering a glimpse into the schools dynamic and nurturing educational environment. As an IB World School, Ambrit implements the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Middle Years Programme (MYP), which encourages curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong passion for learning. Families attending the Open Day will have the opportunity to explore the schools inquiry-based approach, meet dedicated staff, and gain insights into the comprehensive education offered at Ambrit. The event, hosted by school leadership and teachers, includes tours of the facilities and an overview of the curriculum, providing attendees with an understanding of what makes Ambrit a standout choice for young learners. Interested families are encouraged to register for the event through the Ambrit website: Open Day Registration Form (https://ambrit-rome.com/admissions/open-days/) Location Details Address: Ambrit International School, Via Filippo Tajani 50, 00149 Rome, Italy. Google Map Link This Open Day promises to showcase why Ambrit International School is the perfect environment to begin an enriching educational journey. Ambrit International School EC Open Day Feb 1st 2025 10:00-12:00 Ambrit International School Primary School Open Day Feb 1 2025 10:00-12:00 JAKARTA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Mount Ibu, located in Indonesia's eastern North Maluku province, erupted on Tuesday, prompting the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation to issue a flight alert. The volcano, situated in West Halmahera regency, expelled a column of ash that reached up to 3 km into the sky, and the resulting brown cloud drifted northwest of the volcano. Residents living on the slopes of the mountain, as well as tourists, have been banned from entering a 4-km radius around the crater. Additionally, the danger zone has been extended to 5.5 km in the northern areas. During ashfall, communities engaging in outdoor activities are advised to wear face masks, sunglasses, and nose protectors. To safeguard flights from the risks associated with volcanic materials released during the eruption, a Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued at the orange level, which is the second-highest warning. The notice prohibits aircraft from flying at altitudes within 5 km of the volcano. Pilots must also be prepared for the possibility of ash clouds that could disrupt flights. Mount Ibu, standing at a height of 1,325 meters, is one of the 127 active volcanoes in Indonesia. Ahead is continuing its partnership with Waterford City and County Council in 2025. The Willing Able Mentoring Programme (WAM) partners with leading employers across the island to offer paid graduate-level job opportunities exclusively for people with disabilities. The partnership, which began in 2022, has so far seen two Waterford graduates placed at the council. Ahead CEO Dara Ryder says the programme can support graduates who worry about disclosing their disability to an employer. "Often, graduates with disabilities need some supports to show their talents at interview or in the workplace, but because of past negative experiences, many fear telling employers about their disabilities. "The WAM Programme offers graduates a safe space to disclose their needs and apply for jobs with employers who are actively seeking a more diverse workforce and offers employers access to top talent and a supportive structure to learn about barriers in their recruitment processes," said Mr Ryder. PROCESS Applicants must have a minimum qualification of NFQ level 6 and complete an application form. The council are looking for people with qualifications in planning, construction, construction project management, civil engineering or a related discipline. Successful applicants are invited to a needs assessment with the WAM team to discuss any support they may need. They will be paired with a mentor, receive pre-placement training, and benefit from ongoing support from the WAM team. According to AHEAD, 81% of WAM graduates gain employment as a direct result of the programme. WAM has supported over 700 disabled graduates nationally into full-time work placements since 2005. This initiative is particularly significant for Waterford and would support the disability sector within the county. AHEAD In 2025, WAM is partnering with the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and several local authorities across Ireland to recruit graduates with disabilities. Ahead is a non-profit organisation working with and for disabled people to shape inclusive and empowering environments in tertiary education and employment. For more information, visit www.ahead.ie. People with disabilities interested in working with Waterford City and County Council should register now on the WAMWorks database to apply for roles and receive updates on new work opportunities in your area. The Irish Cancer Society has issued an urgent appeal for volunteer organisers in Dungarvan for Daffodil Day in March. Dungarvan residents with a strong connection to their local community are encouraged to volunteer to coordinate fundraising activities on March 28, 2025. "Daffodil Day will see people across the country conduct street sales and shake buckets to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society and give hope to cancer patients and their families," the charity said as it prepares to run its annual cancer fundraiser. "The Irish Cancer Society typically receives only 5% of its income from the Government, so it's thanks to the generosity of our wonderful donors, fundraisers, and volunteers that we can provide services and support to ensure nobody in Ireland has to face cancer alone," the charity said. Donations from the public will fund cancer research and support services for people around the county affected by cancer, while also ensuring that free information and support is available for those affected by the disease. We have an amazing group of volunteers who are always eager to support Daffodil Day," Community Organiser Siobhan Connaghan said, "They show up with smiles on their faces, regardless of the weather, and spend a little time chatting or listening to stories. Cancer impacts so many people, so knowing this small act of giving my time to support Daffodil Day and the services the Irish Cancer Society provides can make a significant difference to someone on a cancer journey in our community, makes it very worthwhile. I feel privileged to be part of Daffodil Day and to contribute to such a great cause, even in my small way." "We are open to all applications we receive but are particularly interested in setting up Daffodil Day activities in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford," Mary Quinn, Irish Cancer Society Volunteer Manager said. We want people to get involved and take a lead in organising fundraising activities for Daffodil Day in March 2025 in their local community with their own team of volunteers, family and friends." Los Angeles: Peter Yarrow, the singer-songwriter best known as one-third of Peter, Paul and Mary, the folk-music trio whose impassioned harmonies transfixed millions as they lifted their voices in favor of civil rights and against war, has died. He was 86. Yarrow, who co-wrote the groups most enduring song, Puff the Magic Dragon, died on Tuesday in New York, publicist Ken Sunshine said. Yarrow had bladder cancer for the past four years. Peter Yarrow performs in New York on July 20, 2014. Credit: AP The world knows Peter Yarrow the iconic folk activist, but the human being behind the legend is every bit as generous, creative, passionate, playful and wise as his lyrics suggest, his daughter Bethany said in a statement. During an incredible run of success spanning the 1960s, Yarrow, Noel Paul Stookey and Mary Travers released six Billboard Top 10 singles, two No.1 albums and won five Grammys. Australias biggest private land developer has 110 years to clear thousands of trees in the Perth Hills to make way for its long-fought North Stoneville housing estate. Under its federal government environment approval, granted by a South Australian delegate to Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek, Satterley Property Group can bulldoze an estimated 60,000 healthy native trees, some older than 200 years, across 200 hectares of land. Property developer Satterleys plan for a housing estate in the Perth Hills has been plagued by controversy. Credit: Google Maps Despite the environmental green tick, Satterleys development application still has a way to go before work can begin on the project, planning for which has spanned three decades. WAs State Administrative Tribunal is due to make a final determination in late 2025 over the plans to develop a townsite for 2800 people, three schools and a 193-hectare conservation area. VIENTIANE, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lao government officials gathered for a two-day meeting to discuss pressing issues, and the progress of implementing socio-economic development plans for 2024 and new directions for 2025. The meeting, held in Lao capital Vientiane from Monday to Tuesday, was presided over by Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, according to Lao national TV. The two-day meeting aimed to build consensus on measures to ensure the success of the national socio-economic development agenda for 2025, while striving for excellence in all areas. It also focused on evaluating progress in implementing various plans during 2024 and setting directions for 2025. Key topics discussed included economic and financial challenges, mining and resource management, public security, social development, education reform, tourism development, land management, and energy solutions. During the meeting, Sonexay highlighted the complexities of the international and regional landscape in 2025, marked by disputes and challenges and their impact on global economic recovery. Sonexay also called for unity and detailed planning to achieve or exceed the goals outlined in the five-year National Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2021-2025. CANBERRA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A man who allegedly threatened police with a knife has died after being shot by officers in South Australia (SA). SA Police said that the 40-year-old man was shot at a home during an incident in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The man was treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics before being transported to hospital where he died. SA Police said that the shooting occurred after police officers and ambulance crews were deployed to the home in Adelaide's southern suburbs shortly after midnight in response to reports of a man harming himself with a knife. Officers entered the home to speak to the 40-year-old when he allegedly threatened them with a knife. "Police deployed a taser which was unsuccessful, the man continued to threaten patrols with the knife," SA Police said in a statement. "Police then discharged their firearms, incapacitating the man." There were no injuries to police. SA Police's Internal Investigation Service as well as detectives from the major crimes and forensic response units have launched an investigation into the incident. The street where the incident occurred has been closed and the public asked to avoid the area. SINGAPORE, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Singapore recorded 129 cases of murder, attempted murder, robbery, rioting and serious harm involving knives as of November 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs said Tuesday. Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling announced that the list of regulated weapons will be expanded to include flick knives and knuckledusters in the first half of 2025. Sun's comments came in response to questions regarding knife-related crimes and measures to protect the public, following an attack in November where a priest was stabbed during mass. The 2024 figure is in line with the average of 133 such cases annually between 2021 and 2023, Sun said. The ministry had previously reported around 150 knife-related crimes per year between 2017 and 2021. NEW DELHI, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- American tech giant Microsoft on Tuesday announced it will invest 3 billion U.S. dollars in India on cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and training over the next two years. The announcement was made by Microsoft's chief executive officer Satya Nadella during an event in Bengaluru, who is currently on a visit to India. The tech giant will also train 10 million people in AI skills in India by 2030. Nadella said the mega investment in India would be the "single-largest expansion" done in the country. Microsoft said it will expand its cloud and AI infrastructure across data center campuses in the country. "Microsoft already has three data center regions in the market, and the fourth is ready to go live in 2026. This investment aims to develop a scalable AI computing ecosystem to meet the growing demands of India's rapidly expanding AI start-ups and research community," the tech giant said in a statement. 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. By Cillian Sherlock, PA More than 55,000 new homes, including 15,000 social homes, are needed each year to address homelessness, advocacy groups have said. The Irish Homeless Policy Group has expressed concern over the absence of concrete proposals in political manifestos to address homelessness, as parties and independents meet for government formation talks after the general election. On Tuesday, it said 10 key actions are required in any programme for government to achieve long-term solutions. The group, which includes homelessness charities and groups like the Irish Refugee Council, said credible policies and tangible goals are needed. Emma Byrne, chairwoman of the group and policy officer with Focus Ireland, said: We believe ending homelessness is achievable and we believe a collaborative approach, which brings together organisations on the front lines along with local authorities, state agencies and strong cabinet support, will be the best approach. Mike Allen, Focus Irelands director of advocacy, said the group is hopeful the next government will take action on homelessness. Asked if Focus was hopeful about a change of housing minister, Mr Allen said: We will work with whoever the minister is, were more concerned that the policies are changed rather than the minister would change. The portfolio is currently held by Fianna Fails Darragh OBrien. Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister for Housing Darragh OBrien (Brian Lawless/PA) Nick Henderson, chief executive of the Irish Refugee Council, said it is almost two years since the Department of Integration said it could no longer accommodate every male international protection applicant arriving in the country, in breach of the governments legal obligations. The State has failed to house thousands of international protection applicants, with 3,141 men currently without an official offer of accommodation. Mr Henderson expressed concern for extremely vulnerable asylum seekers who are without an offer of official accommodation. Last week, official statistics showed that the number of people accessing emergency accommodation had risen above 15,000 for the first time since records began. The Department of Housings official figures indicate that 15,199 people accessed emergency accommodation in November, comprising 4,658 children and 2,168 families. However, the numbers exclude those sleeping rough, refugees in direct provision centres, people in domestic violence shelters, and those sleeping in cars or on couches. The homelessness policy group has called for increased transparency around access to emergency accommodation and homelessness services. Outgoing integration minister Roderic OGorman (Brian Lawless/PA) Adam Boyle, solicitor with the Mercy Law Resource Centre, said there was a deeply concerning and increasing trend of individuals and families not being assessed as homeless by local authorities. He said this was leading more people into hidden homelessness, making the official statistics unreliable. The policy documents ask government to work towards a goal of 20 per cent of housing being social and cost rental, in line with the recommendations of the Housing Commission Report, to meet the exiting housing deficit and future demand. It also asks for a 2030 goal of making sure no one is homeless for more than six months by dedicating 10 per cent of new social housing supply to existing long-term homeless households. Mr Allen warrned that without a scheme prioritising such people, the next government will continue to fail homelessness even if it succeeds on housing. He added: That will have huge political, social and economic consequences. Mike Allen (Focus Ireland/PA) The key actions also ask for the prioritisation of homelessness prevention measures, ensuring nobody has to sleep rough regardless of their legal status, and improvements for mental health services for the homeless. It also calls for a private rental strategy setting out a clear vision for the role the sector can play in the wider housing landscape. Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne asked for the panels view on comments by Taoiseach Simon Harris, who said in September that emergency accommodation figures were heavily impacted by international protection applicants. Mr Henderson said the remarks were clumsy at best and extremely problematic at worst. He warned there is a need to be very, very careful about connecting a steady increase in homelessness with asylum seekers. Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne (Niall Carson/PA) Mr Harris later clarified that his comments related to exits from direct provision being cited as the largest reason for presentations to homelessness services in Dublin in July. Mr Allen said there was a long-running tradition of people saying homelessness is caused by people experiencing homelessness. It is very damaging in endless number of ways as well as being untrue. Mr Henderson also highlighted comments in December from outgoing integration minister Roderic OGorman, who said his department was accommodating 6,000 homeless people who had a legal right to be in Ireland as refugees, arguing there would be less pressure on the international protection accommodation system if local authorities housed those people. He said the comments by Mr OGorman were too late. Aontu TD Paul Lawless is to be succeeded on Mayo County Council by his sister Deirdre. The Knock native served just six months on the local authority before he was elected to Dail Eireann in the general election last November. The abolition of the dual mandate some 20 years ago meant he had to resign his council seat and co-opt a party representative in his place. A past pupil of Knock National School, Loughanemon Gaelscoil and Mount Saint Michael Secondary School in Claremorris, Ms Lawless has been involved in Aontu since its inception, playing a pivotal role in her brother's election campaigns in 2019, 2020 and 2024. Deputy Lawless expressed his confidence in her appointment, saying: Deirdre is a force to be reckoned with - a committed, well-organised leader with a get-it-done attitude. As a seasoned teacher and a proud Gaeilgeoir, she has a deep love for the Irish language, music, and culture. She will bring a restless enthusiasm to her new role. Im also delighted that her selection brings another strong female voice to Mayo County Council, increasing the number of female councillors in the county from three to four. Its particularly significant that the Claremorris LEA now has two women out of its six councillors, showing progress in representation. An LEA that never had a female councillor six months ago now has two." Ms Lawless said she was "honoured to step into this role and work hard for the people of the Claremorris Local Electoral Area". "Ive stood alongside Paul on countless initiatives, from the cataract bus campaign to grassroots community efforts. This is an exciting new chapter for Aontu in Mayo, as we now have the foundations of a constituency office in Claremorris, where I will work closely with our TD and staff to deliver for the people of Mayo. Im eager to sit down with my fellow councillors and hit the ground running - theres a lot to do, and Im ready to get started. Mr Lawless said his sister was selected following "a transparent and inclusive selection process" where members were given seven days to nominate candidates, after which a selection convention took place. "She was chosen following a vote by Aontu Mayo members. Her candidacy has also been approved by the Ard Comhairle. Her name will now go forward to Mayo County Council for formal ratification. This robust process ensures the voices of members are at the forefront of every decision. Deirdres selection represents a fresh, energetic vision for Mayo County Council, underpinned by her unwavering commitment to community, culture, and progress." Gordon Deegan Plans to demolish 'D4 gem', Smyths Pub on Haddington Rd, and replace it with a pub and apartments, is facing opposition. In its plans, Courtney Lounge Bars Ltd is proposing the demolition of all existing buildings on site at 10 Haddington Rd and the construction of a four storey and part five storey mixed-use building comprising a pub at basement and ground floor and six residential units at the upper floors. A planning report lodged with the application states that the replacement building is considered to be a significant improvement from the building it replaces and will be a positive additional to the character of the area However in response, the Pembroke Rd Association has told the council that "a local pub can be a wonderful social amenity in a mixed residential area, as Smyths has been over the years, but a super pub in the same type of area is a problem. On behalf of the association, Susan McCarrick has told the Council that the development is clearly too high and we have a concern with its bulk and massing and general visual dominance. Former Environment Editor at The Irish Times, Frank McDonald has told the council that "protecting Dublins heritage is important, especially in a city that has lost so many of the elements that give it character and authenticity. He said: "Smyths pub may not have retained as much of its Victorian interior as Toners and Doheny & Nesbitts on Baggot Street or Keoghs on South Anne Street, but it is of real value as a remnant of 'old Dublin'". Mr McDonald states that the pubs own website describes itself as a "D4 Gem" and he said that now this 'D4 Gem', sandwiched as it is between brasher elements of 'New Dublin, is destined for the chopping block, to be replaced by a significantly larger bar extending over the entire ground-floor area from Haddington Road to Percy Place." In response to the concerns expressed, the Council sought further information requesting the applicant to revisit the design of the structure and to reduce the overall mass and bulk of the building. In the further information response, an architects report contends that the height of the building when viewed from Haddington Rd "is appropriate when viewed in the wider architectural context." BEIJING, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of Japan's ruling coalition will visit China from Jan. 13 to 15, said a spokesperson for the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Tuesday. The two sides will jointly hold the ninth meeting of the China-Japan ruling party talks, said spokesperson Hu Zhaoming. The visit of the delegation, led by Secretary General Hiroshi Moriyama of the Liberal Democratic Party and Secretary General Makoto Nishida of the Komeito Party, comes at the invitation of the CPC, according to Hu. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Partly to variably cloudy skies overnight; more clouds (low clouds and fog off the ocean) points south and east from the I-95 corridor to the shore especially. A total lunar eclipse after midnight peaks around 2:30-3:30am. . Tonight Partly to variably cloudy skies overnight; more clouds (low clouds and fog off the ocean) points south and east from the I-95 corridor to the shore especially. A total lunar eclipse after midnight peaks around 2:30-3:30am. BUDAPEST, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Natural gas prices in Europe have surged by 20 percent after Ukraine ceased the transit of Russian natural gas through its territory, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto said Tuesday. Ukraine halted the transit of Russian natural gas to Europe on January 1, following the expiration of a five-year transit agreement. In a Facebook post, Szijjarto attributed the increase in natural gas prices to "artificially imposed reductions in supply," originating from political decisions and sanctions. The European Union (EU)'s competitiveness has suffered significantly, said Szijjarto, adding that higher natural gas prices than those paid by global competitors are to blame. Hungary, which imports natural gas through multiple routes, has managed to maintain a secure energy supply. Szijjarto noted the strategic importance of the Turkish Stream pipeline. Without it, he said, Hungary "would now be in an extremely difficult position as a landlocked country." In a call with his Slovak counterpart Juraj Blanar, Szijjarto called for adherence to the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, which includes provisions for maintaining energy supply routes. While Hungary remains committed to its energy cost reduction measures, Szijjarto said, he also warned that rising gas prices continue to create "new competitiveness challenges" for the EU. The minister reaffirmed Hungary's intent to collaborate with regional partners to navigate these difficulties. OTTAWA, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday he would step down in the coming months, triggering a period of political uncertainty. While Trudeau will remain prime minister until a new leader is chosen by his Liberal Party, his resignation sets the stage for a leadership race and raises questions about Canada's ability to handle pressing challenges, both domestic and international. HOW MUCH LONGER CAN TRUDEAU STAY? Under the Liberal Party's constitution, a national board meeting of directors must be held within 27 days of a leader announcing intention to resign. The board can appoint an interim leader to manage the party's affairs while a leadership race is organized. This race typically lasts several months, but due to the urgency, the Liberals are expected to select a new leader before Parliament reconvenes in late March. Once a new leader is elected, they will automatically replace Trudeau as prime minister until the next general election. WHO WILL LEAD? Trudeau's resignation has triggered a national leadership contest. The race will likely last several months and culminate in a leadership convention by the end of March 2025. Prominent figures, 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 are expected to join the race. This contest will be crucial not only for the Liberal Party's future but also for shaping Canada's relationship with the United States under a potentially hostile Trump administration. HOW WILL IT IMPACT CANADA'S POLITICS? Trudeau's resignation comes at a precarious time. The opposition Conservatives were preparing to table a non-confidence motion when the House of Commons reconvenes on Jan. 27. To avoid a confidence vote while the Liberals organize their leadership contest, Trudeau requested a prorogation of Parliament until March 24, 2025. This will halt all legislative activities, including key economic proposals, and give the Liberal Party time to select a new leader. A new session of Parliament will begin with a Speech from the Throne, setting up a confidence vote that could trigger a federal election in May if the Liberals fail to hold power. CAN TRUDEAU EFFECTIVELY GOVERN DURING TRANSITION? While the leadership race unfolds, Trudeau remains in office as a caretaker prime minister. However, his ability to negotiate with the United States or respond to global challenges could be limited. Experts, including Laura Dawson of the Future Borders Coalition, worry that Canada's lack of clear leadership could weaken its position in the face of Trump's tariff threats. Ontario Premier Doug Ford echoed these concerns, arguing that Trudeau should focus on the tariff issue rather than stepping down at such a critical time. IS CANADA VULNERABLE AMID UNCERTAINTY? Trudeau's resignation comes just as the United States is about to enter a new chapter with President-elect Donald Trump threatening 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports. Critics, including former Canadian ambassador to the United States David MacNaughton, warn that Trudeau's resignation weakens Canada's bargaining position. Trudeau's influence will rapidly fade, making it harder for Canada to respond to these new threats. With Trump preparing to take office, the timing raises concerns about Canada's diplomatic capacity during this leadership vacuum. Trump's own provocative response on his Truth Social platform, suggesting Canada merge with the United States to avoid tariffs, only adds to the political turbulence and highlights the need for strong leadership. IS CANADA AT A CROSSROADS? The coming months will be pivotal as Canada faces a leadership transition amidst rising global tensions. Trudeau's resignation has left the country at a crossroads, with its political future uncertain and ability to manage international relations under threat. The selection of a new Liberal leader will determine not only the party's direction but also Canada's standing on the world stage. For now, Trudeau remains at the helm, promising to protect Canadian interests during this period of uncertainty. But with political waters growing ever more turbulent, Canada's leadership in the coming months will be crucial to navigating the challenges ahead. NEW YORK, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- An appeals court in New York on Tuesday denied U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's last-ditch bid to halt the sentencing for the hush money case scheduled Friday. "After consideration of the papers submitted and the extensive oral argument, movant's application for an interim stay is denied," said Ellen Gesmer, associate justice with Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of New York, First Department, in a brief decision. Trump's lawyers on Monday filed suit at the appeals court against Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and Judge Juan Merchan over the judge's denial of Trump's presidential immunity motions. The decision came on the heels of Merchan's decision later Monday to reject Trump's motion to delay the sentencing. Merchan is set to hold a hearing for Trump's sentencing in the hush money case on Friday morning in Lower Manhattan. In May 2024, a jury in New York found Trump guilty of all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in a bid to hide hush money payments to a porn star in 2016 and the initial date of sentencing was July 11, 2024. By Tim Hepher PARIS (Reuters) - Airbus is counting the cost of last-minute financial concessions to airlines to overcome a spate of minor quality problems after scrambling to deliver a provisional 123 jets in December, industry sources said. The end-year rush brings preliminary 2024 deliveries to 766 jets, up 4% from 2023, but this is subject to internal audits, meaning it could still be trimmed by one or two jets before final data is released on Thursday, the sources said. Even so, the world's largest planemaker is expected to declare victory after putting a floor of 750 on its guidance of "around 770" deliveries in a briefing to analysts in October. Airbus declined comment. Reuters reported on Friday that Airbus had provisionally delivered over 765 jets. Airbus has been under pressure to meet targets and deliver on promises to investors after a profit warning in July. But unions and some airlines have raised concerns that the push to speed up deliveries has come at the expense of quality problems. Malaysia Airlines last month blamed the grounding of a brand new A330neo on quality issues. Airbus said it was supporting the airline alongside engine maker Rolls-Royce. Hampered by weak supply chains, planemakers increasingly compensate airlines for cosmetic defects or pay for extra maintenance if they agree to take jets before deadlines, insiders say. The potential stakes of such brinkmanship were exposed when Airbus agreed to pay $200,000 per day per plane over flaws in the painted surface of A350 jets, in certain conditions, if Qatar Airways agreed to take a jet on the last day of 2020. The side-letter secured a much-needed end-year delivery but helped set the stage for a multibillion-dollar court battle before a settlement in 2023. At one point during the dispute, Qatar had grounded 30 jets and sought to trigger the new clause over safety concerns, leaving Airbus with a ballooning exposure of $2.1 billion a year. Airbus and regulators consistently denied any safety risk. CONCESSION LETTERS Two years on, sources say such colossal financial stakes have evaporated but the practice of hard bargaining under the pressure of end-year delivery targets is becoming more routine. They said Airbus had been forced to make financial pledges or offer other commercial incentives to get several December deliveries over the line. There are no suggestions that any glitches involved in end-year delivery negotiations have safety implications. Contained in so-called "concession letters", such delivery deals can involve tens of thousands of dollars, or in rarer cases up to one or two million for large jets, three people familiar with the Airbus handover process said. By Katya Golubkova and Yuka Obayashi TOKYO (Reuters) -Nippon Steel is poised to expand its operations in the U.S. and India as it hunts for growth and protection from cheap Chinese exports after its bid for U.S. Steel was blocked by the White House, analysts say. Japan's top steelmaker, battling declining domestic demand, made the $14.9 billion bid for the U.S. producer in an attempt to grow its footprint in a stronger market. But its hopes of salvaging the deal after President Joe Biden's rejection on national security grounds are dependent on a lawsuit that is viewed as a long-shot. China, by far the world's largest steel producer, has flooded the market with near-decade high export volumes as its struggling property sector weighs on domestic demand, upending the global steel industry and leading Nippon Steel to invest more in raw materials and in production outside its home market. "China's over-capacity is likely to continue to place pressure on steel exporters... and heighten the need for Nippon Steel to access jurisdictions with growing domestic demand," said Kyle Lundin, principal consultant at Wood Mackenzie. Nippon Steel, the world's fourth-largest steel producer, has a long-term plan of boosting crude steel production capacity to over 100 million metric tons a year from about 65 million tons at present and lifting profits toward 1 trillion yen ($6.32 billion) a year from a 780 billion yen target in the financial year ending in March. "To be a 'truly' global steel producer, greater production capacity above current state is likely required," said Wood Mackenzie's Lundin. Greater production capacity gives flexibility to cut output in one place and increase it in another where demand is more solid in order to boost margins. The United States is the most promising market among developed countries with a large demand for advanced steel products like the ones used in electric cars, Nippon Steel CEO Eiji Hashimoto told reporters on Tuesday. He said the company was not yet considering alternatives to the U.S. Steel plan, adding it would not give up on expanding in the United States. "Considering the current industrial and energy policies, the demand for advanced steel will increase even more in the future. At any rate, the U.S. business is essential to our global strategy," Hashimoto said. Nippon Steel has operated in the country since the 1980s and has a number of U.S. assets, including its prime facility, a joint venture with ArcelorMittal in Calvert, Alabama, purchased a decade ago. "China has achieved greater influence globally, and people elsewhere in the world have become more aware of China's rich cultural heritage. China's reform and opening up has connected Chinese with people in the World. I hope China will continue making efforts to promote traditional Chinese medicine culture abroad," Tim Vukan, from Hamburg, Germany, says. Vukan is an expert in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and the founder of Wushan TCM, an online education platform that presents TCM courses in three languages (English, German and Chinese). He is also a fan of Tai Chi, a centuries-old Chinese martial art focusing on both internal and external practices. Passionate About TCM Vukan became obsessed with Chinese Kung Fu after he watched some martial arts films starring Bruce Lee (1940-1973). He began learning Wing Chun, a traditional southern Chinese Kung Fu style, from a German teacher at 18, and he dreamed of one day visiting China. His dream came true in 2004 he arrived in Central China's Henan Province to study martial arts. Later, he moved to Yangshuo, in South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, to study Tai Chi. His teacher also taught him to speak Chinese, and helped him blend in with the locals. Vukan noticed the many vendors who were selling Chinese herbs. He also travelled to Southwest China's Yunnan Province, where he began to develop a strong interest in TCM. As he only had a tourist visa, Vukan stayed in China for about three months in 2004. But during that period of time, he decided he wanted to study TCM in China. In 2005, he returned to China, to learn TCM at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang Province. In 2015, he received his master's degree, in TCM, from the university. To make TCM accessible to more people around the world, Vukan set up the online education platform, Wushan TCM (wushantcm.com), in 2008, through which he has offered online courses on TCM culture, especially information about yangsheng (nourishing life) and particular TCM therapies, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. "My mission is to popularize professional knowledge of TCM among foreigners, using a simple and easy-to-understand language, and from a Western perspective. Now, the website has thousands of registered members, including TCM practitioners and ordinary people around the world," Vukan says. Vukan also uses social-media and short-video platforms to promote TCM culture. Compared with a decade ago, an increasing number of foreigners are interested in TCM, he says. Vukan, who has been living in China for about 19 years, says TCM is an indispensable part of his life. "I will continue to promote greater understanding of TCM culture in the world, and I will help TCM benefit more people," he says. Reform and Opening Up Brings China Closer to World When talking about China's reform and opening up, Vukan says, "China has gone through complex changes, with strong economic modernization and social reform, toward an opening up and a greater influence with the whole world. The policy has made China achieve strong economic growth." Vukan says it is especially interesting to see how his career has been influenced by China's reform and opening up. "Looking back to 2005, when I started my Chinese medicine studies, at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, I would not have thought that today I would have the honor to teach in front of Chinese undergraduate students, who are learning the theories and practical applications I also learned during the years of receiving my education. I can now see it as a journey, beginning with the first steps I made into the Chinese language, which also opened up my understanding about Chinese culture and philosophies," he says. Learning the Chinese language has always been a tool that has helped Vukan connect with Chinese, and to gain a better understanding of the various fascinating facets of Chinese culture. "Just like every Chinese person is trying to build up their dreams, this vision also became my reality when I started my studies in Chinese medicine. It took a lot of effort to follow the classes, which were held in Chinese. But, at the end of the day, it gave me a feeling of deep satisfaction," Vukan says. "My teachers, and the doctors I followed in the clinic where I worked as an intern, treated me with respect, and they shared with me their deep knowledge about this fascinating ancient medicine. Likewise, in the West, people often contacted me to seek help, and to learn about the yangsheng cultivation methods I learned during my time in China," he adds. China's reform and opening up has connected Chinese with people in the West, and, therefore, foreigners have become part of China's great development, he suggests. Witnessing Urban Development Vukan has witnessed the rapid development and increased internationalization of Hangzhou, which he considers his second hometown. "Like many cities in China, Hangzhou over the years has become a very modern, metropolitan city. I still remember when the first Starbucks was built, in Binjiang District. It became our place to go, after our studies, to meet some friends, regain some energy and share our experiences of living abroad. I also often walked along West Lake, where each time young Chinese would send some greetings to me, and express their wishes to have some short English conversations with me," Vukan says. "This has changed so much, that many international brands and companies have become a part of Hangzhou's development, and English, as a second language, has become natural for many young Chinese workers and employees," he adds. Vukan says, in general, the quality of life in big cities, like Hangzhou, has increased a lot, and the cities have modern shopping malls and international brands, not to forget the development of traditional arts, like tea and herbal medicine, which are sold with a modern approach to balance the health needs of modern Chinese. Sci-Tech Development Changes Lives Vukan says he has been particularly impressed by the rapid development of science and technology, which have brought new changes to people's lives in China. "Nowadays, digital solutions are a strong part of our lives. Ordering food, paying in a supermarket, calling for a taxi, or booking our next medical consultation, all can be performed with a mobile-app solution, to provide a better, faster, and more efficient way to serve the people," he says. "Take medical services, for example; China has made better use of big data in ensuring and improving people's wellbeing, and in promoting 'Internet plus medical treatment' to make citizens' access to medical services more equitable and convenient. People can register on mobile apps before going to the hospital. Hospitals have introduced online diagnosis and treatment services for revisiting patients with common and chronic diseases, and hospitals have cooperated with third parties to provide medicine-delivery services," he adds. Photos from Tim Vukan (Source: Women of China) Editor: Wang Shasha 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] (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. && On December 26, 2024, Ko Wen-je, the founder and then chair of the Taiwan Peoples Party (TPP), was charged with accepting bribes (15 million new Taiwan dollars, or roughly half a million US dollars). This was in return for a real estate deal Ko approved as mayor of Taipei, profiteering and embezzling political donations to the party. He was detained and kept incommunicado on August 31, 2024, following a police raid on his residence the day before. Ko was mayor of Taipei between 2014 and 2022 and finished third in the Republic of Chinas (hereinafter Taiwan) 2024 presidential election. Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of 28 years and six months in jail for the defendant. Ko and the TPP have claimed that the charges are a political vendetta. While the 610,000-word indictment did expose Kos complicated political-business nexus and profit-making corporation, it has yet to establish meaningful monetary inflows and outflows that he and the real estate magnate were accused of making during his tenure as mayor. Ko is the second major politician to face anti-graft investigations and charges since President Lai Ching-te took power in May 2024. Both have shown an interest in competing for president in 2028, and they were and continue to be Lais political opponents. In the run-up to the 2024 presidential race, Ko alienated the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its supporters when the TPP and the Kuomintang (KMT) saw a joint ticket as their best chance of winning. Ko, lagging his KMT counterpart by at least six percentage points in the polls, would only accept a joint ticket if the KMT candidate acted as his running mate. This proposal not only sparked acrimonious disputes between the two parties of the opposition but also exposed the supposed reformist and anti-establishment posturing of the TPP. The DPP further branded Ko Wen-je as Beijings favorite presidential candidate when he stated in December 2023 at a presidential debate that the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family and that he would engage in dialogue with China. In January 2024, Lai Ching-te, the ruling DPPs presidential nominee, was elected president in a single round via first-past-the-post voting. He received only 40.05 percent of the popular votes on a turnout of 71.86 percent, compared to 59.95 percent for his two opponents (KMT and TPP candidates, 33.49 percent and 26.46 percent). In the concurrent parliamentary election, the DPP lost its majority and gained 51 of the 113 seats; the KMT, 52; and the TPP, 8. Since then, the DPP minority leader in the parliament has repeatedly rallied tens of thousands of supporters to surround the chamber while accusing KMT and TPP MPs of being Beijings operatives, dark and evil forces, traitors and saboteurs. A few DPP supporters have issued explicit fascist death threats to particular MPs from the two opposition parties. In December 2024, the ruling DPP endorsed South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeols declaration of martial law in a social media post. As the DPP-aligned media run daily defamatory allegations of misconducts against him, the indictment would suffice to tarnish Ko Wen-jes brand and the TPP based on a single maverick leader and to make an increase in defence spending and further provocations against China easier. Throughout his political career, Ko has maintained political flexibility in relation to competing factions of the Taiwanese bourgeoisie, siding with one over the other whenever it suits him. When working as a surgeon at National Taiwan University Hospital in the early 1990s and in the 2000s, Ko organized political committees representing physicians for DPP mayoral and then presidential candidate Chen Shui-bian. Despite controversies involving prominent DPP politicians, Ko remained politically connected to the DPP until he launched his own party in 2019. For example, in November 2007, Taiwans then-President (May 2000-May 2008) Chen Shui-bian threatened to declare martial law to crush the opposition KMT. In 2009, facing corruption charges, the former head of state asserted that the US, as the occupying power of Taiwan, must exercise its jurisdiction over the island by hearing his cases in US military courts rather than ROC ones. None of this stopped Ko forming an informal alliance with the DPP, which would provide him with the political support he needed to run for office. When Ko was elected mayor of Taipei as an independent candidate in 2014, he gained strong support from the DPP, which did not field a mayoral candidate in the city. The office is viewed as a stepping stone to the presidency. Ko, like other representatives of the Taiwanese bourgeoisie, has an affinity for imperialism and colonialism while rejecting genuine democracy. In an interview with Foreign Policy Magazine in 2015, he claimed, the longer the colonization, the more advanced a place is. Despite mainland China having a bigger GDP than Vietnam, Vietnamese culture remained superior to that of the Chinese. In the same interview, Ko hailed the United States as a cultivated nation that Taiwan should emulate because the US allowed citizens to live like human beings and care[d] for the underprivileged. Working people in the United States who have experienced poverty and social distress would be surprised by Kos willful ignorance. According to the Wealth Inequality Database, the top 10 percent of Americans owned 72.6 percent of the countrys wealth in 2015. In comparison, the bottom 50 percent held 1.1 percent. The supposedly uncultivated China has a wealth distribution similar to that of the most caring capitalist country. In 2015, the top 10 percent of Chinese amassed 67.3 percent of the countrys wealth, while the bottom half possessed only 6.5 percent. Asked about his take on Taiwans democracy by Foreign Policy, Ko Wen-je responded, Does Taiwan have democracy? He argued that true democracy meant that politics belonged to the people; Taiwanese politics was dominated by corporations and political parties. This did not suggest that Ko intended to get big money out of politics or to launch a frontal assault on two bourgeois parties, however. He, instead, proposed redefining politics by finding ones conscience and doing the right thing. His philosophy was, Be good at heart, and do your best which can help Taiwan become a better place. During the presidential campaign, he went even further, comparing the TPP to the Society of Jesus religious order. To put it another way, the Taiwanese ruling class could be compelled to implement social reform if progressives under his political and spiritual leadership appealed to the moral sentiments and emotions of the bourgeoisie. In 2017, Ko stressed Taiwans democracy, freedom, pluralism and openness as a model for Asian countries to emulate while slamming Hong Kong for lacking the soul of freedom and free elections and Singapore for being a canary in a birdcage. This exemplified the petty-bourgeoisies naive reformist illusion about bourgeois democracy and the refusal of this particular social layer to acknowledge capitalisms decay and disintegration in front of our eyes. Throughout his eight-year mayoral tenure, as well as the presidential campaign, Kos reformist rhetoric and moralistic approach to politics drew a passionate following among youth and a sizable portion of the middle class, who saw the TPP as a genuine alternative to the two-party duopoly. Ko and the TPP speak for a privileged segment of the middle class. They can present themselves as progressives and a check and balance against Taiwans ruling elite by aligning themselves with one or another bourgeois faction. Such political convenience speaks to their role as a lightning rod, channeling popular anger and social discontent back into the establishment parties of the ruling class. Ko cannot fathom why the DPP has rapidly shifted to authoritarian methods of rule, or why his electoral challenge to rival sections of the Taiwanese ruling elite posed no threat whatsoever to the social and economic system with which imperialist and Taiwanese bourgeois interests are inextricably linked. Similarly, he could not explain why he might wind up as a canary in a birdcage in this supposed land of democracy, freedom, pluralism and openness for a few years, if not 28. In a pamphlet titled Their Morals and Ours, Leon Trotsky stated before the outbreak of the World War Two that war would begin with a series of convulsions, crises, catastrophes, epidemics, and bestiality, referring to imperialism as the final stage of capitalist world domination and its relationship to the crisis in democratic morality. As the economic life of humanity reached an impasse, class antagonism would then intensify. Leon Trotsky Trotsky elaborated: The safety valves of democracy began to explode one after the other. The elementary moral precepts seemed even more fragile than the democratic institutions and reformist illusions. [...] The decay of capitalism denotes the decay of contemporary society with its right and its morals. The synthesis of imperialist turpitude is fascism directly begotten of the bankruptcy of bourgeois democracy before the problems of the imperialist epoch. the most limited petty bourgeois moralists still live even today in the idealized memories of yesterday and hope for its return. They do not understand that morality is a function of the class struggle; that democratic morality corresponds to the epoch of liberal and progressive capitalism; that the sharpening of the class struggle in passing through its latest phase definitively and irrevocably destroyed this morality; that in its place came the morality of fascism on one side, on the other the morality of proletarian revolution. Sir Keir Starmers Labour government has reneged on promises made in opposition that the party would compensate women born in the 1950s who lost up to tens of thousands of pounds due to pension changes under previous governments. During Prime Ministers Questions on December 17 Starmer, backed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall, refused Parliament a vote on a compensation package for the cohortknown as WASPIs (Women Against State Pension Inequality)proposed by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. Starmer said, The taxpayer simply cannot afford the tens of billions of pounds in compensation when the evidence does show that 90 percent of those impacted did know about it [changes to pensions]. That is because of the state of our economy. While Kendall admitted to parliament there was a 28-month delay informing women of the pension changes, in the same breath she said there was considerable awareness of the changes, that timely letters would have made no difference and there was no evidence of direct financial loss. Labour politicians including Starmer, his Deputy Angela Rayner, Reeves and Kendall, and many other Labour MPs, all professed sympathy for the plight of the WASPI campaign group in the past. This included photo ops with WASPI women at every opportunity for years. However, with Labour having an almost unassailable lead over the Tories in the year leading up to the July 2024 general election, the matter was getting too close for comfort for the partypledged to iron fiscal disciplineand nothing on the WASPI issue appeared in its 2024 election manifesto. The 1995 Pensions Act brought in by the Conservatives, led then by Prime Minister John Major, increased the state pension eligibility age (known as the state pension age), for women from 60 to 65 years, on the cynical grounds of achieving equality with men who retired at 65. The change was phased in from 2010 for women born between 1950-55. These changes were accelerated by the 2011 Pensions Act under another Tory Prime Minister, David Cameron, encompassing women born between 1950-1960. The state pension age for women increased to 65 by November 2018, and for women and men to 66 by October 2020. The WASPIs argue they were not given adequate notice of the changes by the DWP to enable them to adjust their future financial arrangements accordingly. Many retired without realising their state pension age had risen. It was only from 2009 to 2013 that the DWP wrote to the women affected about the pension changes in 1995 and 2011. How this worked out in practise is exemplified by the experience of retiree Hilary Simpson, whose story is told by the Guardian. She retired early from employment in local government aged 55 to take on childcare responsibilities for her daughter, having calculated she could manage on the lump sum from her workplace pension until she could claim her state pension at 60. The new legislation, however, upended her plans, meaning the lump sum would now have to be stretched over eight years until she was 63. When the changes were accelerated with the 2011 Act, eight years became 10-and-a-half years. Simpson challenged the claims by the government that 90 percent of the women affected knew about the changes. The DWP have said they dont know how many letters they sent out and to whom, she said. Further attacks on the pensions of men and women followed. The Pensions Act 2014 further raised the state pension age from 66 to 67, to be in place by 2026-28. An earlier Pensions Act 2007 established a rise in the State Pension Age from 67 to 68 by 2044-2048. The Pensions Act 2014, however, introduced five-yearly reviews and it is expected the state pension age of 68 will be in place much sooner. A petition organised by the WASPIs has passed the necessary threshold of 100,000 votes for a parliamentary debate to be consideredto discuss a compensation scheme for the WASPI women. To date, approaching 151,000 votes from the public have been registered. Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI). demonstration outside Parliament on the day of Labour's autumn budget, October 30, 2024 [Photo: Cllr Pat Draper/X] The package proposed by the Ombudsman amounts to 10.5 billion for the 3.5 million women affected, which works out at a meagre payment of 1,000-2,500 for each woman. This should be measured against the state pension totals which might have been paid but were stolen from WASPI women by the changes in legislation. For example, a woman born in 1952, who paid in the qualifying 30 years National Insurance contributions and retired at the State Pension Age of 62, would have lost two years Full State Pensionat the then weekly amount of 169.50and robbed of 17,628 in total. Someone whose State Pension Age rose to 65 would have been purloined of five years pension, or a staggering 44,070, as well as five years of well-earned retirement. How paltry this settlement is exposed in the fact that in the run-up to the 2019 general election, Labour, then headed by the nominally left Jeremy Corbyn, pledged 58 billionover five yearto compensate the WASPI women. The then Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell said Labour in government would make individual payments of an average of 15,380 to the 3.7 million women affected, with some payouts reaching 31,300. Had Corbyn won the election, there is no doubt he would have ditched this pledgein line with his constant capitulations to the Labour right that saw him politely hand the party leadership over to Starmer, after losing the general election. Notwithstanding the laughable pittance that the Ombudsman suggested, ignoring its recommendations is highly unusual and created further embarrassment for the government. The Ombudsman is appointed by the Crown at the prime ministers recommendation to investigate complaints against public bodies. It is independent of the government and answers complaints to Parliament. In the UK, the income of pensioners comes from one or more of the following sources: the state pension financed by National Insurance contributions, a workplace pension, a personal pensionor personal wealth. The poorest who survive on the state pension alone must claim welfare benefits to top up their income. Not only is the state pension being eroded, but so are workplace pensions, with workers in the public who previously received better terms than the average in the private sector being levelled down, now having to work longer and pay higher contributions to receive smaller pensions. This is above all due to the betrayals of the trade union bureaucracy in the public sector, which sold out the mass pension struggles by teachers, civil servants and workers in higher and further education among other sectors. The largest pension strike on November 30, 2011, involved 2.5 million workers in 20 unions. This continued into the present decade. Central to the betrayal in 2023 by the University and College Union of its members during a strike wave over falling living standards that erupted in 2022-23 was a sellout pension deal. Starmers refusal to pay compensation to the WASPI women is another signal to the ruling classafter its October budget was attacked by big businessthat Labour will deepen its assault on the working class, no holds barred. It follows the sharp restriction of winter fuel allowance paymentspreviously worth between 100 and 300 for all retirees, including 1.8 million of the poorestand comes alongside an announcement kicking any action on the social care crisis into the long grass. A recent study of the sector painted a dire picture of provision, the lack of which had a profound human cost and economic consequences for the elderly and their families. Thanks to Labour, a review will report at the scheduled end of Labours first term in office, in 2028. On May 16, 2024, the Interior Minister for the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Herbert Reul (Christian Democratic Union, CDU), banned the Palestine Solidarity Duisburg group (PSDU). The ban criminalised any criticism of the Israeli genocide in Gaza and the federal governments war policy. Now one of those affected by the ban, Ahmad Othman, has been dismissed by his employer on what are clearly political grounds. Ahmad Othman at the Palestine Congress in Vienna [Photo by Stefanie J. Steindl/PalastinaKongress] When Interior Minister Reul issued the ban back in May, police searched the homes of four PSDU activists, including that of Othman. Since he had the passports of several relatives at his home, the police immediately initiated proceedings for alleged forgery. This accusation was unfounded from the outset and any proceedings were subsequently dropped. On May 16, the police also searched his workplace. Othman works as an IT specialist, mostly from home. As a result, several devices belonging to his employer were confiscated. The far-reaching allegations in the ban order declared that the PSDU was an antisemitic organisation which supported Hamas and terror methodscharges uncritically promoted by the official media and then used to suspend Othman from working. His suspension in June 2024 was followed in mid-November by his final dismissal on December 31, 2024. The reasons given for his dismissal are his alleged unconstitutional attitude due to his membership in the PSDU and his legal action opposing the ban. Othman has insisted on his right to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and speak out against the Israeli governments genocide. On this basis he was invited to speak at a number of meetings to explain what happened to him and the others affected. The letter confirming his dismissal raises precisely these points, i.e. that he refused to distance himself from the PSDU. His employer refers to statements made by Othman in a speech at a recent Palestine Congress in Vienna, without specifically mentioning the content, claiming that his statements at the congress made him unsuitable for his job. His employer apparently also did not accept that Othman refused to comment on the ban in an interview and that he was only ready to do so in writing. Most far-reaching for the young man and his professional activity is the employers insinuation that Othman could use his position as an IT specialist to abuse the companys network for personal purposes. As an IT employee, Othman works in the area of development and server support and thus has access to sensitive data and systems. The letter of termination states: In light of your statements (...) and regarding the above-mentioned group (PSDU), there is concern that you no longer use the access options within the scope of your professional activities with sufficient reliability and neutrality. This amounts to accusing him of criminal offences, without any grounds. As an IT specialist, one always has to deal with sensitive data and I have always handled such data correctly, Othman explained. The accusation is baseless. On the contrary, even after the PSDU ban, he was assured that his employers were more than satisfied with his work. Nobody questioned his abilities or experience. The reason for his termination can therefore only be understood as an blatant warning to any future employer: Beware of employing Ahmad Othman as an IT specialist. The termination is thus effectively a professional ban. Today it is Ahmad who is affected, but this is directed against us all! the Committee Against the Ban of PSDU wrote on its website. Othman is by no means the only person to lose their job because of activities on behalf of Palestine or criticism of Israel. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations in Germany are banned, harassed and subjected to Kafkaesque censorship regulations and artists who express criticism are sanctioned. Even scientists have to fear for their funding if they speak out too openly. On December 11, the Halle Labour Court upheld the dismissal of Ghassan Hage. The Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology in Halle fired the Lebanese-Australian scientist in February. The institute cited as grounds for his dismissal social media posts in which he condemned the Israeli mass murder of Palestinians. The Halle Labour Court rejected his extraordinary dismissal on formal grounds, but upheld his ordinary dismissal dated March 31, 2024. In its article on the banning of the PSDU, the World Socialist Web Site noted: When the Verfassungsschutz (Germanys domestic intelligence service) included the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei in its 2019 annual report as an allegedly left-wing extremist party, opening up the party for state surveillance, the SGP warned that this would prepare the ground for criminalising booksellers who distributed Marxist literature, workers who strike for higher wages or peace activists with the stroke of a pen. This is now confirmed by the banning of Palestine Solidarity Duisburg. The domestic intelligence service, the German government and the courts did not cite violations of the law against the SGP, but rather its policies. What was criminalised was the striving for an egalitarian, democratic and socialist society or criticising alleged nationalism, imperialism and militarism. The PSDU is also not accused of any criminal offence. It has been banned because it did not submit to German state policy regarding Israel and protestedpeacefully and in wordsagainst the murder of Palestinians in Gaza. Due to its advocacy of a democratic, secular and peaceful state in Palestine, the organisation, along with many other people worldwide, including numerous Jews, are being defamed as antisemites. The NRW Interior Ministry cited as grounds for the ban positions shared by the majority of UN member countries and the International Court of Justice. The ban order speaks of an unproven genocide despite all evidence to the contrary. The ministry could not make it clearer that the ban is an act of state arbitrariness, censorship and oppression. On November 15, 2024, almost exactly six months after the PSDU ban, the Higher Administrative Court of North Rhine-Westphalia rejected an urgent appeal against the ban. It adopted the assertions of the NRW Interior Ministry and in some cases even sharpened them up legally. While the ministry had fantasised about a legally questionable spiritual support for Hamas, the OVG unceremoniously deleted the word spiritual. The court ruled that the PSDU had downplayed Hamas and thus clearly gave it support. In the meantime a constitutional complaint has been filed against this interim injunction. The main proceedings against the PSDU ban are still pending. Othman filed an unfair dismissal suit at the end of November and announced that he would use all legal means to get his job back. I know that this is not just about me. If I lose, we all lose. The more blatantly the German government supports the government in Israel politically, financially and with weapons and the more obvious the genocide in Palestine becomes, the more vehemently it acts against those opposing it. This has nothing to do with protecting Jewish lives or making reparations for the Holocaust. Germany, like the United States and other European states, is using Israel as a bridgehead for its imperialist interests in the Middle East and thereby threatening and intimidating the entire region. In a revealing episode last week, the entire parliamentary and media establishment in New Zealand joined in the glorification of Tariana Turia, the founder of Te Pati Maori (the Maori Party), who died on January 3, aged 80. Tariana Turia (left), after her investiture as DNZM, for services as a Member of Parliament, by the governor-general, Dame Patsy Reddy, at Putiki Marae, on 13 August 2018 CC BY 4.0] [Photo by New Zealand Government, Office of the Governor-General Turia was one of the countrys most prominent representatives of Maori nationalism, a political tendency that has been promoted for decades by successive governments in order to divide the working class along racial lines, while enriching a narrow layer of the Maori tribal elite. Media commentators, liberal publications such as the Daily Blog and the pseudo-left International Socialist Organisation falsely portray Te Pati Maoris (TPM) racialist politics as progressive. The aim of these middle class layers is to disorient workers and youth who are moving to the left and subordinate them to the capitalist parliamentary system. TPM has recently received widespread media publicity for leading mass protests against the National Party-led coalition governments Treaty Principles Bill. The legislation proposed by the far-right ACT Party seeks to incite racism against Maori and divert attention from the worsening social crisis brought about by the governments austerity measures. The chorus of praise for Turia, however, underscores the fact that TPM does not represent any real alternative to the political establishment. It is a right-wing party that for the past two decades has represented the interests of indigenous capitalists, who control tens of billions of dollars in business assets. In 2008, under the leadership of Turia and co-leader Pita Sharples, TPM joined Prime Minister John Keys conservative National Party-led coalition government, which also included the far-right ACT Party. Sharples became minister of Maori affairs and Turia served as minister for the community and voluntary sector and associate minister for health, social development and employment. Current Prime Minister Christopher Luxon hailed Turia as a principled leader, never swaying from her values and doing what she believed to be right. She was a tireless advocate for the betterment of Maori. He highlighted her work establishing the Whanau Ora programme to improve Maori and community wellbeing. Whanau Ora, introduced in 2011, outsourced the delivery of some social welfare and healthcare services to benefit Maori tribal organisations. It went hand-in-hand with the Key governments rationing of vital public services and its privatisation agenda. The scheme was retained and expanded by subsequent Labour and National governments. TPM remained in an effective coalition with National and ACT for nine years, helping to impose the burden of the 2008 financial crisis on working people through brutal austerity measures. This included mass job cuts, frozen wages, reduced funding for health and education, and an increase in the goods and services tax. The Key government also repeatedly deployed NZ troops in support of the criminal US-led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. TPM occasionally made hypocritical calls for withdrawal from these wars, while simultaneously backing the governments military budgets and helping it remain in power. In return for TPMs support, the National Party expanded the wealth of the Maori business elite through the Treaty of Waitangi settlements process, handing over $1.59 billion in public funds to tribal corporations. The treaty settlements began in the late 1980s under the then Labour government, ostensibly to provide redress for the theft of Maori land and other crimes of colonisation. Their real purpose was to enrich a Maori bourgeois layer by allowing tribes to create lucrative business ventures in tourism, agriculture, fisheries, property and other sectors. None of this benefited the Maori working class, which suffered disproportionately from the austerity regime backed by TPM. Significantly, ACT leader David Seymour issued a statement describing Turia as a warm, gracious woman and a brave, principled leader. Since the 2023 election, Seymour and the current TPM leadership have accused each other of racism over the ACT Partys attempts to limit the political influence of the tribes and to stoke racial divisions. Yet for all the rancour, the differences between ACT and TPM are tactical, not fundamental: ACT continues to support the Treaty settlements and the role of Maori tribes in New Zealand capitalism. Opposition Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins joined Luxon and Seymour in hailing Turia, stating: Dame Tariana contributed greatly through the course of successive governments, and her relentless commitment to the betterment of Maori and the upholding of Te Tiriti [the treaty] was beyond admirable. In a fawning statement, Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick called Turia a formidable leader who carved history with her love, care and unshakeable sense of justice [and displayed] deep commitments to improving the lives of many in Aotearoa [NZ]. Swarbrick did not explain how Turias career had improved the lives of ordinary people. In fact, the National-ACT-Maori Party government decimated entire communities, privatised publicly-owned assets and engineered a vast transfer of wealth to the super-rich. Turia founded the Maori Party in 2004 after breaking away from the Labour Party in opposition to its legislation that removed the right of tribes to establish ownership over the foreshore and seabed, thus eliminating lucrative business opportunities in areas such as aquaculture. Turia retired from politics ten years later. In 2015 she was made a Dame in recognition of her services to New Zealand capitalism. After nearly a decade of collaboration with National, TPM was deeply discredited in the working class and failed to win a single seat in parliament at the 2017 election. In 2011, MP Hone Harawira had split from TPM and founded the rival Maori nationalist Mana Party, which he falsely said would give a voice to the poor, the powerless and the dispossessed. Manas political agenda was the same as TPMs: it wanted larger Treaty of Waitangi settlements and more political power for the tribes, but Harawira warned that the coalition with National was eroding support. The ISO and other pseudo-left organisations and union officials immediately joined Mana and campaigned for it as a left alternative, despite its anti-immigrant policies and its electoral alliance in 2014 with the openly right-wing Internet Party founded by multi-millionaire Kim Dotcom. Mana collapsed in 2017 after Harawira launched a racist campaign for the death penalty to be reintroduced for Chinese drug smugglers. After the debacle of 2017, TPM embarked on a rebranding exercise to distance itself from National. In 2020, former Labour Party MP John Tamiherenow the highly paid chief executive of the Waipareira Trust charitybecame TPMs president. The partys new co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer declared that joining another National-led government was now untenable. The party returned to parliament in 2020 despite receiving just 1.2 percent of the votes, which represents less than one tenth of Maori. In 2023, it increased its support to 3 percent, campaigning in an alliance with Labour and the Greens. Following Turias death, however, TPM has unequivocally endorsed her political careersending a clear message that the party remains open to supporting a future government led by either of the main big business parties. Ngarewa-Packer told the media: She is the absolute epitome of strength and steadfast determination and leadership our people needed at a time of great uncertainty. Co-leader Rawiri Waititi said that Turias legacy will be forever etched in the fabric of our nations history. The partys middle class left supporters have made similar comments. Robert Reid, former leader of the FIRST Union, posted on X that Turia was My boss, my mentor, my guide, my friend. The Daily Blogs Martyn Bradbury called TPMs coalition with National a deal with the Devil but praised Turias courage, her legendary fearlessness and intellect. The embrace of Turia exposes the lying claims by the pseudo-left promoters of TPM, such as the ISO, which campaigned for the party in the 2023 election. It stated in October that year that Ngarewa-Packer and Waititi had steered the party back to the left and adopted policies which reflect the interests of working class people. The fact is that TPM advances a thoroughly reactionary agenda, based on divisive racial politics. While advocating a few cosmetic reforms such as a token increase in taxes on corporations and the rich (which will never be implemented under any capitalist government) the partys central demand is for a vast increase in power and wealth for the tribal elite through the further expansion of Treaty settlements. It also calls for the establishment of parallel systems of government and management systems, including a separate Maori parliament, and justice and healthcare systems run by Maori, for Maori. TPM demands Maori ownership of water and other natural resources and the return [of] all land currently held by central and local government to mana whenua [Maori], i.e., to the tribes. Such policiesas well as TPMs openly racist claims that Maori are a genetically superior peopleserve to disorient and divide the working class, while providing grist for the governments anti-Maori demagogy. Those who want to fight against the National-led governments far-right agendaits support for US imperialist war against Russia and China and the Gaza genocide, and the gutting of public health, attacks on jobs and wages, and efforts to whip up racismmust reject the divisive politics of Maori nationalism represented by TPM and promoted by all the parliamentary parties. The oppression of the Maori working class will not be alleviated one iota by giving more wealth and power to the tribal capitalists who are every bit as ruthless and reactionary as their non-Maori counterparts. What is required is the unified struggle of workersof every race and nationalityto put an end to the source of inequality and imperialist violence: the capitalist system itself. This means taking up the fight for the program of socialist internationalism represented by the Socialist Equality Group, the New Zealand supporters of the International Committee of the Fourth International. By Scott Murdoch and Shivangi Lahiri SYDNEY (Reuters) -Insignia Financial shares shot to a three-year high on Monday after it revealed a A$2.87 billion ($1.78 billion) takeover bid from U.S.-based investment manager CC Capital Partners, eclipsing a A$2.67 billion offer from Bain Capital. The deal would give CC Capital access to Australia's $A4.1 trillion superannuation system, which is considered one of the world's largest private pension markets. The 178-year-old Australian money manager previously known as IOOF rejected private equity firm Bain Capital's approach in late December, saying the offer did not provide fair value to its shareholders. Insignia shares gained 11% to A$3.93 per share in early trade, reaching their highest level since 2022, but remaining below the $A4.30 per share cash offer. Insignia said its board was considering CC Capital's proposal to assess if it was in the best interests of its shareholders. Insignia Financial said CC Capital's non-binding bid offered a 7.5% premium to Bain Capital's offer and a 21.5% premium to Insignia's last closing price of A$3.54 on Friday. CC Capital was formed almost a decade ago by Chinh Chu who was Blackstone's former co-head of private equity, according to the firm's website. If successful, the deal would be the New York-based firm's first major investment into Australia. Insignia provides superannuation, financial advice and asset management services. It had A$319.6 billion of funds under management and administration at the end of September. The transaction will give dealmakers hope that a rebound in corporate buyout activity Down Under in 2024 will be extended this year. Australian M&A activity was worth $113.4 billion in 2024, according to LSEG data, up 15% on 2023. Inbound M&A from overseas buyers leapt 23% in the year compared to one year earlier, the data showed. "Insignia's board may demand a higher premium given the company's significant role in Australia's superannuation industry but whomever the buyer is will not only need to please the board and shareholders but also regulators to get a deal over the line," said Stella Ong, market analyst at share trading platform Superhero. "With Insignia's forward P/E still trailing behind that of AMP though, this may not be the last bid we see," she said, referring to rival Australian investment manager AMP. CC Capital's offer requires Foreign Investment Review Board and prudential regulatory approval, Insignia said. CC Capital did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Bain Capital declined to comment. South Korean investigators yesterday applied for an extension of the arrest warrant that was issued last Tuesday for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. He has been accused of insurrection and abuse of power over his failed attempt to impose martial law on December 3. Yoon utilized his personal guard and the military to block initial attempts to execute the warrant. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) filed the request for an extension with the Seoul Western District Court, which issued the initial arrest warrant. Yoon and his legal team, however, have given no indication that they will comply, claiming the CIO has no authority to investigate Yoon and the warrant is illegal. On Sunday, the same court dismissed an injunction requested by Yoons legal team to invalidate the warrant. Rally calling on the Constitutional Court to dismiss President Yoon Suk Yeol, in Seoul, December 15, 2024. The signs read Immediately arrest. [AP Photo/Lee Jin-man] The CIO and the National Police Agency initially attempted to carry out the arrest warrant on Friday, only to have the Presidential Security Service (PSS) block them from entering Yoons presidential residence in Yongsan, Seoul. The PSS, which is an independent branch of the South Korean bureaucracy, protects the president. It also commands sections of the military responsible for guarding the president and mobilized soldiers from the 55th Security Brigade and the 33rd Military Police Brigade to prevent Yoons detention. When a second attempt to arrest Yoon will be made is not clear. The president, however, has stonewalled every effort to investigate his declaration of martial law last month as well as the impeachment trial which was initiated on December 14 when the National Assembly voted to suspend Yoon from office. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to review the impeachment and make a final decision on whether or not to remove Yoon from power. The first hearing in the impeachment trial is set for January 14, which Yoon is required to attend. However, Yun Gap-geun, one of his lawyers, suggested that the president would not do so, merely saying Yoon will attend a hearing at an appropriate time and express his views. On Friday, during the second pre-trial hearing at the Constitutional Court, the National Assemblys impeachment investigation committee, which is serving as the prosecutor in the case, proposed that insurrection charges be withdrawn and instead focus placed on the constitutionality of the martial law declaration itself while criminal charges be handled separately. The investigation committee is comprised of main opposition Democratic Party lawmakers and its allies in parliament as well as legal experts. The ruling People Power Party has refused to take part in the committee. The CIO is investigating the criminal charges against Yoon in conjunction with the police. It requested the first arrest warrant and another to search the presidential residence after Yoon refused three separate summons for questioning and blocked investigators from carrying out search warrants at the presidents offices. However, confusion took place on Sunday and Monday when the CIO sent a letter to the police asking the latter to execute the warrant on the CIOs behalf. The police balked at the request, raising questions about disputes between the two sides and their ability to carry out a second attempt to arrest Yoon. The CIO stated Monday that they had agreed to jointly carry out the warrant and reached a consensus with the polices National Office of Investigation that any room for controversy cannot be tolerated. It is possible that when a second attempt is made to arrest Yoon, the police will attempt to arrest PSS officials and guards who obstruct the operation, leading to potential clashes between the two sides. The police are considering deploying special forces to assist in a second arrest attempt, but have not confirmed their plans publicly. In addition, protests have taken place around Yoons residence and in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, both in support of the president and demanding his arrest. Rallies backing Yoon have attracted at most 35,000, including on Saturday, and dominated by far-right and fascistic elements. Demonstrations led by the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) against Yoon over the weekend had approximately 50,000 participants, significantly smaller than the hundreds of thousands who participated in recent weeks as the KCTU and the main opposition Democratic Party (DP) have sought to roll back protests. Yoons supporters have also appealed to the United States and to the incoming Trump administration. Participants at pro-Yoon rallies regularly wave US flags alongside South Korean ones and have in recent days adopted the slogan Stop the steal, the same Trump used to justify his own failed coup on January 6, 2021. South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok, right, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken shake hands during a meeting in Seoul, January 6, 2025. [AP Photo/Lee Jin-man] The US, in fact, intervened in the political crisis on Monday when Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Seoul with acting President Choi Sang-mok, National Assembly Speaker U Won-sik, and Foreign Minister Jo Tae-yeol. Blinken refused to criticize Yoon, instead presenting Yoons attempted military coup as little more than political differences, during a press conference with the foreign minister. Blinken further claimedjust three days after Yoon mobilized the military to block his arrestthat 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. Without stating it explicitly, Blinken essentially gave his support to Yoon and the policies that he carried out in building a trilateral military alliance between South Korea, the US, and Japan. He declared that Yoon, the would-be dictator, alongside Washington and Tokyo had forged a new era of trilateral cooperation, helping to advance a shared vision of an Indo-Pacific thats free, thats open, thats prosperous, thats secure, thats resilient, increasingly connected. In all likelihood the Biden administration was aware of Yoons martial law plans in advance, whether they actively supported Yoon or chose to turn a blind eye. That Blinken talks at all about rule of law is because Yoons coup failed. Washingtons primary concern now is preventing the political crisis in Seoul from negatively impacting the trilateral military alliance that it has long sought as part of the US-led preparations for war against China. In fact, Yoon is directly drawing on anti-democratic precedents in the US. On January 3, Yoons lawyers submitted a document to the Constitutional Court stating the president should have immunity from all prosecution. They cited the US Supreme Court ruling in July in which the court effectively ruled that Trump as president had the right to break any laws he chose. In other words, Yoon has declared that he is above the law. If the Constitutional Court sides with Yoon and he returns to office, he will not resume his duties as if nothing happened. He will have full authority over the military after having argued for a legal precedent that he can take whatever measures he deems fit. The potential for another declaration of martial law or other measures taken against political opponents remain present. Potential plans for US military operations in Mexico have surfaced in the media after incoming US President Donald Trump vowed to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. US troops on Arizona-Mexico border [Photo: U.S. Army/2nd Lt. Corey Maisch] At a far-right AmericaFest rally on December 22, Trump promised to make the designation immediately as part of a historic slate of executive orders he will sign after his inauguration on January 20. Under the Authorization for Use of Military Force of 2001 Act, this step would provide the legal framework, not only for financial and criminal penalties, but also for military operations in Mexico, as noted by The Independent. Based on discussions with transition team officials, Rolling Stone followed up by reporting on military plans that have already been presented to Trump for consideration, which included airstrikes on cartel infrastructure, assassinating cartel leaders, and training Mexican forces as well as covert operations and patrols just over the border to stem the flow of drugs across the frontier. The magazine asked active and retired military personnel what such an operation would look like. Several compared a potential offensive to dismantle the drug cartel leadership to US wars in the Middle East. One veteran said: Its Iraq all over again. Youre going to find and fix the HVT [high-value target] and then start gutting the networks. Take out the key leaders, and then what theyre going to do after that is theyre going to just run the middle management right off the battlefield. Trump has argued that a war must be waged to prevent cartels from controlling American cities and stopping overdose deaths. However, the transparent aims of designating cartels terrorist organizations by the government most implicated in war crimes and terrorism are well known to those familiar with the war on terror. Trump sees cartels as a new overarching pretext based on lies, like the weapons of mass destruction, Al Qaeda or the Taliban, to wage wars of aggression abroad and escalate attacks on democratic rights at home. As part of his mass deportation plans, Trump is presenting working-class migrant communities in the United States and incoming waves of migrants escaping the economic and social devastation caused by a century of imperialist oppression as demographics plagued by criminal organizationsclaims completely belied by statistics. At the same time, his administration wants to set a precedent for renewing Washingtons long and bloody record of military invasions during the 19th and 20th century, as a means of tightening its stranglehold over US imperialisms key geostrategic underbelly and source of natural resources and cheap labor. The underlying reasons were summed up in the World Socialist Web Site New Years statement: Trumps inflammatory statements about taking over the Panama Canal, buying Greenland and threatening to deploy the military to Mexico exemplify the imperialist ambitions of the incoming administration. The corollary to Trumps America First nationalism is a global policy of Fortress America, in which control over the Western Hemisphere is seen as essential in the developing confrontation with China. Similarly to how the corporate media covered the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, the Rolling Stone report and others on the subject ignore these transparent aims and take for granted the objectives professed by incoming government officials. As such, the magazine cites comments criticizing a potential invasion merely in terms of being an ineffective strategy for fighting the cartels that could backfire politically for US imperialism. Such statements express fears that the massacre of working-class and impoverished families in Mexican towns destroyed by US bombing campaigns and raids would fuel the growing anti-imperialist and anti-war sentiment in the region and within the United States, on top of the ongoing US-Israeli genocide in Gaza. But Trumps cabinet selections, like former Green Beret and CIA operative Ronald Johnson as ambassador to Mexico, make clear that these are not idle threats. Several cabinet picks have endorsed the idea, including national security adviser nominee Mike Waltz, who as a member of Congress introduced legislation to authorize military force against drug cartels, calling for treating them like ISIS. The potential devastation of a US-led onslaught, whether it has the blessing of the Mexican authorities or not, cannot be overstated. The Mexican government, working with US arms and training under the Merida Initiative, already launched a war in 2006 that has failed to stem cartel operations while leaving an estimated 450,000 dead and 100,000 missing and costing countless billions of dollars. Homicide levels remain near record highs. Similarly, two decades of US-led counterinsurgency wars in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Syria and Yemen have destroyed entire societies resulted in up to 940,000 direct deaths and 4.7 million indirect deaths, according to the Brown University Watson Institute. Rolling Stone also highlights the possibility of reprisals by cartels against both the 1.6 million U.S. citizens living in Mexico and targets in the United States. Trumps planned onslaught against migrants and threats of trade and military aggression are shaking the foundations of bourgeois rule in every country in the region, making clear their inability to oppose imperialism. The bourgeois nationalist President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has responded to Trumps military threats, as well as his threats to impose devastating trade tariffs, with the slogan collaboration not subordinationas absurd as it would sound if used by Poland in 1939 toward Hitler. On December 23, referring to the same AmericaFest fascist speech, Sheinbaum played a clip of Trump where he called her a lovely, wonderful woman, President Sheinbaum, a wonderful woman. I thank him for referring to me in this way, she said and stressed how Trump asks for support on migration and other issues and then there is another part where he talks about defining the cartels as terrorism, but he never talks about an intervention in Mexico. Never. Such efforts to minimize military threats by the incoming fascist commander-in-chief of a neighboring country with the most powerful military in history and responsible for countless war crimes and aggressions throughout the world is nothing short of criminal. The United States took more than half of Mexicos territory during the 1846-48 war and has invaded its neighbor at least 10 times. But not believing her own words, Sheinbaum has responded with one concession after another. Last Friday, Sheinbaum retracted previous warnings that her administration would refuse to receive non-Mexican deportees. Well receive them here, she said. This about-turn follows the announcement that her administration plans to host a conference of Latin American foreign ministers to pressure other countries to accept deportees from the United States, with Mexican officials effectively acting as emissaries for Trumps State and Homeland Security Departments. Sheinbaum has also escalated the efforts of her predecessor Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to decouple the Mexican economy from China and better serve the geopolitical demands of Washington. On January 1, Mexico put into effect 19 percent tariffs on imported products bought on digital platforms from countries without commercial treaties, affecting mainly the Chinese platforms Shein and Temu. This follows a 35 percent tariff on textile products, mainly from Asia. The bankrupt response by Sheinbaum demonstrates that opposition to Trump cannot be based on any form of bourgeois nationalism or any project of global south unity. Like the other pink tide variants in Latin Americafrom Maduro in Venezuela, to Lula in Brazil and Petro in Colombiathe capitalist government in Mexico represents the interests of the venal capitalist clients of US imperialism who subordinate all democratic questions to attracting investments, credits and market access. Genuine opposition can only come from a working class revolutionary socialist movement, uniting workers across North, Central and South America to end imperialism and the capitalist profit system. On December 21, the University of Michigan (UMich) Central Student Judiciary (CSJ), the judicial branch of the Central Student Government (CSG), officially removed pro-Palestinian and anti-genocide CSG president Alifa Chowdhury and vice president Elias Atkinson, each on a single charge of dereliction of duty. In addition to removing the pair from office, the CSJ barred Chowdhury and Atkinson from ever holding CSG office in the future. Speaker of the Assembly Mario Thaqi has taken Chowdhurys place as CSG president. After seven days of hearings spread from November 22 to December 21, totaling over 20 hours of deliberation, the only infractions the CSJ could cite against the pair were four unexcused absences from Assembly meetings by Chowdhury, and Atkinsons failure to hold CSG meetings, which the student government constitution requires that he lead twice monthly. The CSJ found Chowdhury and Atkinson not guilty on all other charges, most significantly on the charge of inciting violence. Chowdhury and Atkinson ran on the Shut It Down platform, opposing the US-Israel-led genocide in Gaza and its connection to the university, and won the election last spring. They were impeached on November 12 by a 30 to 7 vote on a motion presented by CSG representative Margaret Peterman. The motion issued five articles of impeachment: two each directed against Chowdhury and Atkinson, one for inciting violence against the CSG and the student body, and one for dereliction of duty, and a single charge for cyber theft of CSG property against Chowdhury. The violence in question is a slanderous description of a public CSG meeting held on October 8, during which students peacefully protested to support the Rebuilding Education in Gaza Act. Shut It Down organized the protest through an Instagram post calling on students to Pack CSG to support the act. The Rebuilding Education in Gaza Act, which would have provided $440,000 to rebuilding education in Gaza, was up for a vote alongside the Wolverines Budget Act, which provided funding for student programs and clubs. During the meeting, the CSG passed the Wolverines Budget Act and rejected the Rebuilding Education in Gaza Act. Student protesters denounced the vote upon its announcement. Following the meeting, Chowdhury used the official CSG Instagram account to post a video criticizing the votes outcome. Petermans impeachment motion was proceeded by an op-ed she and 40 co-author CSG representatives published in the Michigan Daily a week after the October 8 meeting. The op-ed demanded Chowdhury and Atkinson resign for their promotion of and complicity in political violence. In the op-ed, Peterman also cited a bias-motivated assault, reported by the Michigan Daily on September 15, against a 19-year-old Jewish individual that occurred miles from the UMich Ann Arbor campus, which she claims, without evidence, was driven by the hateful rhetoric of the pro-Palestinian protesters. The impeachment campaign was politically motivated and centered on intimidating students and workers opposing the genocide in Gaza. Even as it acknowledged it had found no evidence to back the charge of political violence, the Central Student Judiciary stated that it had no choice but to do as the Constitution commands and as the evidence compels. We are required to convict the defendants. At least two other Shut It Down representatives resigned in protest following the removal of Chowdhury and Atkinson. As the WSWS revealed in an article on the opening of impeachment proceedings against Chowdhury and Atkinson, the small group of CSG representatives leading the impeachment campaign have deep ties to the Democratic Party establishment. Peterman has direct ties to the Democratic Party. She served as a fellow in the Democrats One Campaignutilized by the Democratic Party for many of its campaigns in Michiganand worked with the Michigan Democratic Party on Vice President Kamala Harris presidential election campaign. She also interned over the summer in Washington, D.C., for Iowa Republican Representative Randy Feenstra, a far-right Christian fundamentalist. Thaqi, Chowdhurys successor, was an intern for Michigan Political Consulting. The firm partnered with Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, providing her election campaign donor and opposition research while assisting in recruiting volunteers and in its text banking program (the process of reaching out to voters, donors and supporters via text message). The University of Michigan administration worked with Nessel to prosecute protesters involved in a pro-Palestinian solidarity encampment on campus. Police dismantled the encampment during the Winter 2023 semester. Nessel charged 11 of the protesters, seven of them with felonies. Police attack the Gaza solidarity encampment at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, May 21, 2024. [Photo: SAFEumich] After interning in the US House of Representatives in 2021, Thaqi worked for the Democrats in the 2022 midterm election. In 2023, he interned for four months with a management consulting firm in Amman, Jordan, whose clients include the governments of Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Oman, as well as the US Agency for International Development (AID), a longtime cover for the CIA. According to his LinkedIn page, Thaqi began working as a public sector financial services intern for Guidehouse in Washington, D.C. and plans to join the firm full-time after graduation. Guidehouse is a US consulting firm for businesses and government entities. On its website, Guidehouse boasts of deep connections to every department and office in the US federal government, including the Department of Defense (DoD) and the intelligence agencies. In November, Guidehouse won a $1.8 billion DoD contract for personnel and readiness support. Shut It Down received substantial support from the student body during CSG elections due to its opposition to the US-backed genocide in Gaza. However, Chowdhury and Atkinson alienated students and CSG members by using their positions to block funding for student clubs and activities, maintaining that the funds would be released only if and when the university severed its ties to corporations and agencies supportive of the Israeli government. This self-isolating and politically suicidal tactic played into the hands of the university administration, the Regents, the Democratic Party and pro-Israel groups. It was bound up with the narrow nationalistic politics and perspective of Shut it Down. Rather than opposing the crackdown on protesters against the genocide in Gaza as an attack on the free speech and political expression rights of all students, faculty and staff, Chowdhury and Atkinson helped drive a wedge between the student body as a whole and the anti-genocide protesters. This was a political gift to right-wing, pro-Zionist forces aligned with the Democratic Party and the Regents and hostile to the anti-genocide protests. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has recently been promoting his Classrooms to Careers initiative, purportedly to turn classrooms into career launchpads and prepare every student for success in the workforce, according to a December 27 social media post. But the type of success Stitt envisions has been quickly revealed. Stitt told a local Fox affiliate on December 30 that he might make it a high school graduation requirement that youve got to either be accepted to college or 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 other words, Stitt wants working-class young people forced into a choice between in-demand production jobs (after self-financing the training) or fighting in American imperialisms ever-expanding wars for global hegemony. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt gestures as he speaks during a news conference in 2021. [AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki] A tsunami of angry opposition from parents, teachers, students and community members has ensued. How about letting students and their families decide what is best for them, said one Facebook commentator. Another wrote, This sounds like Mandatory Military Service Straight Outta Highschool for the Poor but with flowery language. A third stated, Mandatory military service for the poor. We see what youre doing, Stitt. This isnt helping kids. This is disgusting. In a TikTok video that promptly went viral, an Oklahoma teacher explained that the governors idea makes no allowance for young people with special needs or those who cannot afford higher education. She says it smells like institutionalization and forced labor to me choice, parental rights, all thats a myth to earn your vote. They lied to you. She noted, its all off the table unless youre a one percenter. Her TikTok has 20,000 comments to date, the vast majority scathingly denouncing the proposal. Temara Jean posted, So, they are basically initiating the draft without saying its a draftwhich was liked by over 108,000 people. PowBamfKAK said, Most people cant afford college. The teacher responded, Many children cant even afford the application process. Either way, this cuts off high school graduation for the poorest students. Governor Stitts suggestion of a military requirement for those unable or uninterested in attending college or trade school points to the ruling classs profound concern over a severe military recruitment shortfall. The far-right Heritage Foundations Project 2025 details this downward trend in enlistment. Writing in Project 2025, former Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller (who played a crucial role in facilitating Trumps coup attempt by initially preventing D.C. National Guard troops from assisting Capitol Police to protect Congress) laments that military recruiting was the worst in 2022 that it has been in two generations and is expected to be even worse in 2023. As a remedy for this, Miller suggests: Improve military recruiters access to secondary schools and require completion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB)the military entrance examinationby all students in schools that receive federal funding. Miller also calls on Members of Congress to provide time to military recruiters during each townhall session in their congressional districts. Capitalist politicians from both parties have already received this message, including, revealingly, Democratic Socialist of America member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. In March of 2023, Representative Ocasio-Cortez, who supports the proxy U.S. war against Russia in Ukraine, sponsored a student fair at a New York City high school to recruit young people into the military. That same year, Thomas Spoehr, the director of the Center for National Defense, described the recruitment crisis as the worst since the institution of the all-volunteer force in 1973. As to Stitts claims that his program will prepare young people for Oklahomas great jobs and that theres so many great jobs out there, these are belied by a look at some of the states largest employers. As of 2023, according to the Oklahoma Commerce Department, the largest employers in the state include Walmart (second); Amazon (third), Hobby Lobby Stores (fifth), Braums ice cream chain (14th), Dollar General (19th), Lowes Home Centers (21st) and UPS (26th). Dovetailing with Stitts desire to create a school-to-military pipeline, Oklahomas largest employer is the Department of Defense. Most of the jobs at such employers are paid far less than a living wage. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, in Oklahoma, a single adult would need to make at least $19.33 an hour, with full-time hours, and for a family of four with two adults and two children, each adult would need to make, on average, at least $23.33 an hour with full-time hours. Zip Recruiter reports that the average sales associate at an Oklahoma Walmart is paid $16.23 an hour, and the average hourly wage for a fulfillment associate at Amazon is $13.78. As for UPS, thanks to a sell-out agreement that the Teamsters negotiated last year, part-time workers, who make up a majority of the workforce, are receiving only $21 an hour. Such workers routinely must work two or three jobs to make ends meet, with UPS often scheduling only three- or four-hour shifts. Oklahomas minimum wage also remains at the abysmally low national minimum of $7.25 an hour, as it has since 2009. According to the US Census data, during the period 2019-2023, Oklahomas median household income was $63,603 (in 2023 dollars). The state also has the sixth highest poverty rate in the country, with 15.9 percent of the population below the official poverty line. For children, 20.8 percent live in households below the federal poverty level. Stitts policies, meanwhile, are aimed at destroying public education and funneling tax dollars to the wealthy. In 2023, he supported and passed a school privatization bill providing publicly funded tax credits of between $5,000 and $7,500 for parents sending their children to private schools. This is part of an accelerating trend nationwide of school privatization schemes to undermine public education. Another accomplishment for Stitt was a 2024 law that eliminated a world language requirement for high school graduation and allowed school systems to grant high school credit for work experience. On January 6, 2025, four years after Donald Trump ordered a mob of his supporters to march on the Capitol to block the election of Joe Biden, the US Congress certified Trumps 2024 victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. Mondays certification was the final constitutional procedural hurdle before Trump is sworn in as the 47th president on January 20, 2025. In stark contrast to the events of four years ago, not one senator or representative objected to Trumps re-election, despite his leading role in orchestrating the failed coup in close coordination with a majority of the Republican Party, elements within the police-military-intelligence apparatus and the Supreme Court. This time, instead of a few hundred police officers and bike barricades, the Capitol Complex and surrounding area were transformed into a virtual police state, with eight-foot-high security fencing erected around the Capitol. Inside the chambers, Vice President Harris, serving as president of the Senate, oversaw Mondays certification alongside recently re-elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. The two were seen smiling and talking jovially throughout the event. After the final Electoral College votes were read out by Harris312 for Trump/J.D. Vance, 226 for Harris/Tim Walzthe chamber erupted in bipartisan applause, capped by Harris warmly shaking Johnsons hand. Vice President Kamala Harris shakes hands with House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, as a joint session of Congress convenes to confirm the Electoral College votes, affirming President-elect Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election, Monday, January 6, 2025, at the US Capitol in Washington. [AP Photo/Matt Rourke] Before and after the certification, leading members of the Democratic Party, including current President Joe Biden, made clear they would do everything in their power to ensure a smooth transition for Trump. This includes not only dropping any reference to Trumps fascistic personality and plans but also whitewashing the coup itself. In an opinion piece published in the Washington Post the evening before the certification, Biden referred to violent insurrectionists but avoided identifying the figure they were fighting to keep in power. In the entire column, Biden never once mentions Trump by name, despite his leading role in promoting the big lie that the 2020 election was rigged and that patriots needed to come to Washington D.C. to stop the steal. Biden wrote that there has been an unrelenting effort to rewriteeven erasethe history of the day. While Trump and the Republicans have indeed attempted to portray the events of January 6 as merely a peaceful protest that got out of hand, the fact remains that Trumps return to the White House is only possible because of the Democratic Partys refusal to pursue criminal investigations into not only Trump but also his accomplices in the Republican Party, the police-military-intelligence apparatus and the Supreme Court itself. Ignoring the reality that the top coup plotter and his most loyal advisers are returning to the White House, Biden wrote, 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. Commenting on Bidens pathetic column, David North, chairman of International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site, observed: The shameful attack will not be repeated because the man who led the January 6 assault will be inaugurated. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Biden presented the threat of dictatorship as a thing of the past. Referring to Trump, Biden said, I think what he did was a genuine threat to democracy. Im hopeful that we are beyond that. Bidens column paved the way for further Democratic prostration on Monday. Leading Democrats presented their willingness to rewrite history and acquiesce to Trump as evidence that the fascist threat had passed. Seeking to chloroform the public to the looming threat of dictatorship, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer refused to name Trump or to acknowledge his role in the attack during a 10-minute speech before the joint session. Instead, Schumer blamed amorphous rioters and insurrectionists gripped by election denialism for the attack. It took Schumer over eight minutes to acknowledge that some Republicans had tried to subvert the election. Seeking to portray January 6 as a moment of unity, Schumer claimed the insurrection failed not because of the inexperience of the mob but because Democrats and Republicans were united amidst the storm of utter lawlessness and committed to finishing the job of certifying the election. He added that January 6 was a historic moment of bipartisanship where both sides united in the protection of our democracy. According to Schumer, the failed coup was not an expression of the disintegration of American democracy but simply election denialism run amok. He stated: I mention January 6 to warn this generation and future generations of the immense dangers that arise when election denialism is tolerated, excused, and propagated. We can never again allow the level of unhinged election denialism to happennot from Republicans, not from Democrats, not from anyone. And we are setting an example today. In reality, a majority of House Republicans voted against certifying the election after the attack and refused to impeach Trump less than a month later in a truncated trial. Trump has continued to claim that the 2020 election was stolen, praised the hundreds of right-wing militia members who stormed the Capitol on his behalf and promised to pardon hundredsif not over 1,000of the low-level foot soldiers he claims have been mistreated by a justice system biased against Republicans. The only time Schumer referenced Trump directly was when he briefly criticized the President for considering pardons for these rioters who broke the law [and] attacked our police officers on January 6th. Pardoning the criminals who assaulted police officers and tried to halt the democratic process would be a dangerous endorsement of political violence. Schumer, an ardent supporter of the US-backed Israeli genocide in Gaza, added: 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. It is wrong, it is reckless, and it would be an insult to the memory of those who died in connection with that day. Even as Democrats roll out the red carpet for Trump, the president-elect fumed on his social media site Monday that Biden was 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. The Democrats groveling response to Trumps return underscores that resistance to the rule of the oligarchy will not come from either party of big business. Immediately following the failed coup four years ago, the WSWS warned that the danger to democratic rights has not passed. We wrote: It is essential to build a network of rank-and-file committees in factories and workplaces capable of organizing broad-based popular resistance through the mobilization of all sections of the working class. Above all, workers must understand that the disintegration of American democracy is rooted in the crisis of capitalism. In a society riven by staggering levels of social inequality, it is impossible to preserve democracy. Then, as now, we call on our readers to: Take up the fight for socialism and the defense of democratic rights by joining the Socialist Equality Party. Students, academics and media activists have made powerful statements opposing the University of Peradeniya vice chancellors decision to ban an International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) lecture at the university. Titled How to fight against IMF austerity program, the lecture was scheduled for 3.30 p.m. on January 3 at the Political Science Department (PSD). It was sponsored by the universitys Political Science Students Association (PSSA), which had obtained prior permission from PSD head Professor Upul Abeyratne. A few hours before the planned lecture, however, senior lecturer Sumudu Walakulu, who is a senior treasurer of the PSSA, informed the IYSSE that he had received a message from the acting vice chancellor, through the dean of Faculty of Arts and the head of Political Science. The message declared that the topic of the speech at the lecture should be revised, and advertised accordingly so as not to appear that the meeting challenges the government policies or else consider hereby that the above meeting be suspended immediately. We publish below some of the statements received by the IYSSE condemning the vice chancellors attack on basic democratic right of freedom of expression and speech. The IYSSE has also received copies of several protest letters from international readers of the World Socialist Web Site, which we will publish later. K. Sivarajini, a first year arts student at Peradeniya University: I am deeply hurt and offended by the cancellation of the IYSSE lecture at Peradeniya University. This decision is not just disappointingits a violation of basic human rights and an attack on our fundamental freedom of speech. As students, we deserve the right to discuss and debate issues that affect our lives and future without fear of censorship. Silencing these conversations goes against the very principles of democracy and academic freedom. I strongly condemn this action and stand firmly against any attempt to suppress our voices or restrict open dialogue within the university. A.S. Seneviratne, a student from the Post-Graduate Institution at Peradeniya University: We as students express our opposition to the banning of the IYSSE lecture by the university administration. No one should be allowed to suppress the right to freedom of speech. Suppression of freedom of expression only indicates a contemptuous attitude towards democratic rights. We all should unite to defend the freedom of speech in the university. If we ignore this attack on this organisation and not see it as an attack on us, other organisations will also face a similar situation in the future. Athulasiri Samarakoon, a lecturer at the Open University of Sri Lanka, stated on his Facebook account: Today it is reported that the right to expression and free speech of the students has been banned by the VC at Peradeniya University. This is an incident that causes pain and frustration on us who accept deconstructive democracy. Athulasiri Samarakoon [Photo: Facebook/Athulasiri Samarakoon] We accept the right for any group or a person to express their ideas under whatever situation and also to criticise violence or importance of those ideas. Universities are places where the fight between ideas takes place and challenging the violence contained in the ideas. Hands off the democratic right of students by Peradeniya Vice Chancellor! Universities where open speech on the IMF and any other phenomenon is prohibited will be reduced to the level of a school. Professor Prabhath Ekanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Peradeniya University, under which PSD operates, made the following comment to WSWS reporters: A letter came from the acting Vice-Chancellor through me to the head of the Political Science Department, saying that the topic of the meeting should be changed because it is against the policies of the government, and if that is not possible, to cancel it Professor Prabhath Ekanayake [Photo: Facebook/Prabhath Ekanayake] According to the [unofficial] news, the order came from Colombo. Probably it comes from the University Grant Commission (UGC). The UGC operates under the direction of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya who is also the minister of education. Although I am a Dean, I am an academic. People should be made aware of the IMF austerity programs. I respect the democratic right to express ones opinion. You can criticise the IMF austerity program. This is nonsense. Professor Ekanayake also expressed his admiration for the Young Socialists, the predecessor of the IYSSE, adding: During the era of the late Wije Dias [former general secretary of the Socialist Equality Party] I learnt a lot from your movement. Todays students also need that awareness. Chaminda Hettiarachchi, a social activist advocating democratic rights, commented on Facebook: I strongly condemn the unwise and anti-democratic action by the acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya to ban the IYSSE lecture opposing IMF austerity in Sri Lanka I find this action is unwarranted by the University Administration and a direct violation of freedom of the speech of the University Community. Noting that he had been involved in the Young Socialists when he was a Peradeniya University, and that JVP student activists attempted to disrupt those activities, Hettiarachchi added: I invite all democratic loving citizens to protest this action by the University administration, influenced by the NPP government! P. Kuruppu [Photo: Facebook/P. Kuruppu] P. Kuruppu, editor of socialist.lk web site, opposed university administrations cancellation of the IYSSE meeting, describing it as an expression of the ruling classs fear and hatred of the independent views of students, teachers and the public in general. He warned that the NPP governments implementation of IMF austerity was not possible without taking away the democratic rights of the people. The Federation of University Teachers Associations issued the following media statement signed by its general secretary, Charudaththe B. Illangasinghe: The Federation of University Teachers Associations (FUTA) strongly condemns the decision taken by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya to obstruct a scheduled meeting discussing the International Monetary Funds (IMF) impact on Sri Lanka. This action represents a blatant and undue intervention in academic freedom. Universities are foundational spaces for critical thought, open dialogue, and the exchange of diverse ideas. Academic institutions must uphold the rights of students and the broader university community to express themselves, including through discussions that may challenge prevailing narratives or present critical perspectives. The Vice Chancellors decision to interfere with this event sets a dangerous precedent. Such actions undermine the ethos of universities as bastions of intellectual exploration and freedom. The suppression of critical discourse not only curtails the academic rights of students and faculty but also erodes the trust and confidence in the leadership of our higher education institutions. The FUTA reiterates the urgent need to safeguard academic freedom and ensure that universities remain spaces where ideas can be freely debated without fear of censorship or reprisal. The statement called on the government to investigate the matter and reaffirm its commitment to upholding academic freedom within all Sri Lankan universities. Dr. Deepika Udugama, head of Peradeniya Universitys Law Faculty, sent the following statement to the Island, a daily Colombo-based English-language newspaper: This reported move to censor a programme, within a university, is surprising and is extremely problematic to say the least. It sets a chilling precedent. Universities are critically important sites of free speech because the sharing of thoughts and ideas on any subject, however disagreeable or unsavoury to the authorities or anyone else, is essential for the generation of ideas. If academia is gagged, the democratic spirit in the country, too, suffers. If academia is sent the message that it cannot enjoy academic freedom, then what is the guarantee to the citizens of the right to free expression? One hopes that this intervention will be withdrawn and confidence restored. If the government, indeed, has not prevailed upon the university to interfere with the programme, it should give assurances to the public. We call on students, academics, non-academic workers, intellectuals, and all who cherish democratic rights to denounce the Peradeniya University authorities for banning the IYSSE lecture. Please send your protest letters to the university authorities, with copies to the IYSSE. To: Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Peradeniya Email: vc@pdn.ac.lk Cc: IYSSE Email: iysseslb@gmail.com We also urge workers, students and teachers to attend our forthcoming IYSSE meetingHow to fight against IMF austerity programon January 9 in Kandy, following the anti-democratic cancellation of our meeting at the University of Peradeniya. Meeting venue: Kandyan Arts Residency Hall, Kandy (near Kingswood College) Date and time: Thursday, January 9, at 4 p.m. Healthcare workers from around the world took part in a global vigil Monday organized by Doctors Against Genocide (DAG) and several other organizations to draw attention to Israels extermination campaign in Gaza, including targeted attacks on hospitals and healthcare workers. The event, Sick from Genocide called on healthcare workers to reflect on the immense moral injury of funding a genocide and engage the most important aspect of treatment: publicly demanding an end to the genocide in Gaza. Among the demands raised by Doctors Against Genocide is the release of Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza, who was abducted during the assault on the hospital and is being held by Israel. Vigils took place across the United States, in New York, San Diego, Detroit; in Montreal, Canada and other cities. In the San Francisco Bay Area a vigil was conducted outside the Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. In Montreal, a group of doctors protested in front of the Maison de Radio-Canada early Monday and others took part in a silent walk downtown to honor healthcare workers who have been killed in Gaza. Aya, (left) Bibbi (Center) Sumayya (right) with Palestinian flag to show support for healthcare workers outside Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit January 6, 2025 At the Wayne State School of Medicine campus in Detroit, school officials cut short a planned press conference by Doctors Against Genocide Monday afternoon in support of the vigil, reflecting the aggressive response of campus administrators to anti-genocide protests. A police sergeant stationed outside the venue told WSWS reporters, We are not going to let this happen, saying it had not been cleared by the university. Several pro-Palestinian youth who had been turned away stopped to speak to the WSWS. Aya, a Syrian immigrant said of the ongoing attempts to silence protests, Everyone should be deeply disturbed by this response. What we have normalized in Palestine and the Middle East will definitely come here. We see it right in front of our face. Students are going to jail for protesting. They are getting rid of diversity programs. That is a direct response to the Palestinian movement here. People should be worried about what is happening here now. Aya spoke about the recent Israeli assault on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza. Israel destroyed everything in the hospital and they took the director of the hospital, Hussam Abu Safiya, and we dont know about his whereabouts. Theyre stating now that they dont even have a record, but theres video of him walking into their tank. We are demanding that they release him and we are calling on other health care workers to speak up. We want to know that our doctors support humanity and that they dont support and stay quiet on things like genocide. This is something that should be spoken up about. Were here to support the doctors who are doing that. Everyone should be speaking up because, our country is literally supporting a genocide. Aya added about the recent regime change operation in her homeland. I want everyone out of Syria. Everyone has their hands in the Middle East. Get out and let the people do what they want to do. Asked about the role of the Biden administration in backing the Israeli genocide to the hilt, Aya said, It is ridiculous. We dont support them. They dont represent the majority of Americans. We dont want our tax money funding a genocide. We want our tax money funding our own communities. People cant afford healthcare these days. Insurance companies are taking advantage of people. They cant afford to buy homes. They cant afford education. But we have billions of dollars for overseas to kill people. The WSWS explained that the International Youth and Students for Social Equality, the youth organization of the Socialist Equality Party, called for young people to turn to the factories and mobilize the working class against the spreading wars. Aya replied, Michigan is a very important state. We have the weapons corridor up here in Sterling Heights. They have weapons manufacturers lining the streets of Warren and Sterling Heights. Thirty-seven percent of military vehicles are sourced from the state of Michigan for all of the US. Her friend Sumayya added, They are nothing without us [workers]. They cannot move anything. Once we realize that powerthey are going to keep taking rights away from us until we say its time to stop. But we all have to decide that collectively. It will benefit everybody. Unfortunately it is taking a little bit longer to realize that. One of the largest vigils was held in New York City. At a press conference, a statement was read from the family of Dr. Abu Safiya calling on every living conscience and every international organization to call for our fathers release and stop these crimes. Organizers demanded the release of hospital workers and the end of the genocide and accountability for those responsible for these crimes. Banners at healthcare vigil against Gaza genocide in New York City January 6, 2025 The main speaker, Nerdeen Kiswani, the founder and chair of Within Our Lifetime, said, Gaza faces a triad of death, wounds from air strike, hypothermia and malnutrition. Doctors report patients dying not only from injuries but also from infectious diseases caused by the collapse of the healthcare system under siege. Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah has stated that Israel has created a genocidal machine that takes human lives beyond the bombs and the shrapnel. Supporters of the Socialist Equality Party and IYSSE distributed a statement from SEP National Secretary Joseph Kishore calling for the release of Dr. Abu Safiya. It stated, Dr. Abu Safiyas abduction underscores the barbarity of Israels war on Gaza. His lifes work as a doctor and hospital director provided a critical lifeline for children in a region that has endured decades of Israeli blockade, siege, and bombardment. The targeting of Dr. Abu Safiya, alongside the systematic destruction of Gazas healthcare infrastructure, reveals the genocidal intent of the Israeli state. It warned, The genocidal campaign in Gaza is part of a broader imperialist war drive that threatens humanity with global catastrophe, including the US NATO war against Russia, expanding wars in the Middle East and the targeting of China. Elise Tak, the daughter of Holocaust survivors from the Netherlands told the WSWS, There is a connection with all the wars going on around the world. It is led by the US, Congo, Sudan, South America, everywhere. The military is all about money, they are killing people for money basically. I dont believe there is a difference between the Republicans and Democrats at all. They are not for us. Heavy police presence at healthcare vigil against Gaza genocide in New York City January 6, 2025 Several dozen doctors associated with Healthcare Workers for Palestine in San Diego gathered in Balboa Park on Monday. One worker employed as an intermediary between hospitals and insurance companies told the WSWS, Its so filthy, the same elites that profit from denying people healthcare in the insurance side of things, also get the US involved in wars abroad. There should be no profit motive in healthcare. When the WSWS reporter explained that it was necessary to mobilize the working class to stop the genocide he replied, I agree, its the workers who need to do something. A pediatrician in San Diego said, We cant make the Democrats change their policy. Bernie Sanders too, hes a charlatan who just says the right things sometimes. There is no left in the government, the left there is more neoliberalism. Another physician said it would be great if other workers joined us. It is something that needs to be organized. SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China's Geely Holding Group on Sunday said it aims to sell more than 5 million vehicles annually by 2027, a big jump from 2023, which it hopes to achieve by accelerating consolidation of its sprawling brands and improving efficiency. The goal represents about 79% growth from 2023, when Geely Holding sold 2.79 million units of passenger cars and commercial vehicles. The group sold 3 million vehicles in the first 11 months of 2024, a 20% growth compared to the same period of 2023. To achieve the goal, which could also put Geely among one of the top 10 automaking groups globally, it will further consolidate its sprawling passenger car brands into two units -- Geely Auto and Zeekr Technology -- to target the mass market and premium segments, respectively, it said in a statement published on Sunday. It would also deepen alignment of research and development of key technologies in seven aspects including architecture, smart driving and cockpits and batteries among the group, which has made redundant investments with separate R&D team under each brand. The Chinese company owned by billionaire Eric Li embarked on a series of strategic moves in September to focus on its main business of automaking after expanding into other sectors such as satellites, smart phones and banking in previous years. In November, it announced the merger of Zeekr with its sister brand Lynk & Co as the first big restructuring move in a planned overhaul for the sprawling automotive group. (This story has been corrected to fix sales growth to 20%, not 31%, in the first 11 months of 2024, in paragraph 2) (Reporting by Zhang Yan, Brenda Goh; Editing by Michael Perry) By Chen Aizhu, Siyi Liu and Trixie Yap SINGAPORE/BEIJING (Reuters) -Shandong Port Group has banned U.S.-sanctioned tankers from calling into its ports in the eastern Chinese province, home to many independent refiners that are the biggest importers of oil from countries under U.S. embargo, three traders said. The province imported about 1.74 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil from Iran, Russia and Venezuela last year, accounting for about 17% of China's imports, ship tracking data from Kpler showed. If enforced, the ban would drive up shipping costs for independent refiners in Shandong, the main buyers of discounted sanctioned crude from the three countries, the traders added. Last month, Washington imposed further sanctions on companies and the shadow fleet that deal with Iranian oil. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20, is expected to tighten sanctions further on Iran, as he did during his first administration. The ban could slow imports into China, the world's largest oil importing nation, traders said. The Shandong Port notice issued on Monday was obtained from two of the traders and confirmed by a third. It forbids ports to dock, unload or provide ship services to vessels on the Office of Foreign Assets Control list managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Shandong Port oversees major ports on China's east coast including Qingdao, Rizhao and Yantai, which are major terminals for importing sanctioned oil. Shandong Port did not respond to calls or an email from Reuters requesting comment. SHANDONG PORT SAYS BAN TO HAVE 'LIMITED IMPACT' In a second notice on Tuesday, also reviewed by Reuters, Shandong Port said it expects the shipping ban to have a limited impact on independent refiners as most of the sanctioned oil is being carried on non-sanctioned tankers. The ban came after sanctioned tanker Eliza II unloaded at Yantai Port in early January, the notice said. In December, eight very large crude carriers, with a capacity of two million barrels each, discharged mostly Iranian oil at Shandong, estimates from tanker tracker Vortexa showed. The vessels included Phonix, Vigor, Quinn and Divine, which are all sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury. The active shadow fleet transporting Iranian, Russian and Venezuelan oil is estimated at about 669 tankers, said Michelle Wiese Bockmann, principal analyst with maritime data group Lloyd's List Intelligence. Of that total, 250-300 tankers were typically involved in shipping Russian oil, which excluded Irans biggest operator NITC and Russias leading tanker group Sovcomflot, she added. Chinese smartphone maker Honor plans to expand in Indonesia to tap into the growing appetite for premium handsets in Southeast Asia's largest economy and most populous country. Shenzhen-based Honor, which was spun off in 2020 as an independent company by Huawei Technologies, expects to launch more than 30 products that range from smartphones to wearables, as well as open over 10 "experience" stores across the Indonesian archipelago this year, according to Justin Li, president of Honor South Pacific. "In future economic cycles, we are very confident in the potential of the Indonesian market - both in terms of the overall market and the mid-premium [smartphone] segment - considering the country is the largest economy in Southeast Asia with the biggest and youngest population," Li said in a media briefing on Friday. 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. Honor is expected to launch its initial batch of products in the first quarter. This will comprise mid-premium handsets, including foldable smartphones, as well as laptop computers and tablets. "In Indonesia, we will be highly focused on mid- to high-end products, and we will pursue long-term investments in the market," Li said. Honor's international push reflects how Chinese handset makers are ramping up efforts to reach more overseas consumers, as competition in mainland China - the world's largest smartphone market - continues to intensify with a resurgent Huawei, which has sharply focused on the domestic market since being blacklisted by the US. Honor chief executive George Zhao Ming presents the company's Honor Magic 6 Pro smartphones in Barcelona on February 25, 2024. Photo: AFP alt=Honor chief executive George Zhao Ming presents the company's Honor Magic 6 Pro smartphones in Barcelona on February 25, 2024. Photo: AFP> In Indonesia, Honor is expected to compete with other major Android handset brands including Samsung Electronics, Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi. Oppo's foray into Indonesia comes amid Apple's troubles with the government. Jakarta banned the sale of the new iPhone 16 series in October, citing Apple's failure to meet local content requirements that mandate that a percentage of components or production processes originate within the country. Last month, Apple pledged a US$1 billion investment in Indonesia after the government rejected the US tech giant's proposed US$100 million investment, up from its initial offer of US$10 million. Adrien Brody hasnt been invited back to host SNL after making an infamously poor choice the first time, but the actor says he is not in fact formally banned from the sketch series. The Oscar frontrunner for The Brutalist told Vulture that it was his idea to play a Jamaican man dreads, exaggerated accent, and all while introducing the shows actually-Jamaican musical guest Sean Paul. The pitch didnt go over super well and the live moment landed with a thud. More from IndieWire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think [series creator and producer] Lorne [Michaels] wasnt happy with me embellishing a bit, but they allowed me to, Brody said of his 2002 appearance. They were all literally agape from me pitching, Brody said of coming up with the character, which included a dreadlock wig. He performed the bit during the dress rehearsal for the show before doing it to a live television audience. I thought that was a safe space to do that, weirdly, Brody added. While there have been rumors that he has been banned by Michaels, Brody said that to his knowledge that is not actually true. But I also have never been invited back on, he added, So I dont know what to tell you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Saturday Night Live clip has resurfaced after Brody won the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama. The Brutalist also won the Golden Globe for Best Picture, Drama. The Brutalist will also be recognized for Best Film and Brody for Best Actor at the New York Film Critics Circle. Youre mine, Jamaica, Brody says in the below clip from 2002. Im on rush stuff. We got the old family in the house. We got Sean Paul, we got Sean Peter, we got Sean Mary, we got Sean John all in the house. We got the original rude boy Sean Paul here. Respect all, respect my auntie. [] Big Jamaica massive! Big Kingston massive! Brody had hosted SNL after making history as the youngest star to win the Oscar for Best Actor at age 29 for The Pianist. This years Oscars will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025; Conan OBrien hosts. Read Brodys discussion with IndieWires Anne Thompson here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement https://twitter.com/snlhostsintro/status/1446252923898327152 Best of IndieWire Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Fans of Delaware actress Aubrey Plaza have united to share words of love and support as she mourns the tragic death of her husband, Jeff Baena. Baena, a director and screenwriter, died Friday, Jan. 3, at his home in California, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records. He was 47. The cause of death was listed as suicide. Aubrey Plaza fans: 'Let us carry you' Aubrey Plaza attends SAG-AFTRA Foundation Conversations - 'My Old Ass' at SAG-AFTRA Foundation Robin Williams Center on Oct. 30, 2024 in New York City. Entertainers and fans have turned the comments section of Plaza's most recent Instagram post into a tribute wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No words can touch this painful time. Only love and strength and support from everyone. I am so sorry," actress Selma Blair wrote on Plaza's Instagram page. "Sending you so much love," actor and model Julia Fox wrote. "Aubrey we love You so much and its absolutely devastating to hear the news about Your beloved," a fan wrote. "We truly wish You lots of protection in this time. Take all the space You need to process this. Dont succumb to ... pressure to return to work any sooner than feels right." Another fan whose "heart breaks" for Plaza mentioned the impact the "Parks and Recreation" star had on her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Your humour has carried me through some dark times so I hope your Instagram community can be there for you at this sad time." Who is Aubrey Plaza's husband, Jeff Baena? Jeff Baena of 'Horse Girl' attends the IMDb Studio at Acura Festival Village on location at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival's Day 3 on Jan. 26, 2020 in Park City, Utah. Baena was a writer and director known for projects like "Life After Beth" and "The Little Hours," both of which starred Plaza. He and Plaza had been dating since 2010 and married in 2020. While many people are familiar with Plaza and her signature deadpan style of humor, her husband often went under the radar and was more low-key than the Ursuline Academy alum. This is mirrored in Baena's IG account, for example, which has 626 followers, compared with Plaza, who has over 5 million fans. Aubrey Plaza shocked fans with marriage in 2021 From left, actor Dane DeHaan, actress Aubrey Plaza and writer/director Jeff Baena attend the "Life After Beth" screening at Crosby Street Hotel on July 30, 2014, in New York City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plaza surprised fans when she called Baena "my husband" for the first time publicly in an Instagram post on May 7, 2021. "So proud of my darling husband @jeffbaena for dreaming up another film that takes us to italia to cause some more trouble." The nearly 4-year-old post has since become a tribute to Baena. "You guys were the most beautiful couple," a fan wrote. "I'm so sorry for your loss[.] I hope you find your way out of the deep hole you probably feel like your in but loss is hard especially when you lose someone this special too you, I wish you the best. Rip Jeff Fly High." Golden Globes show love to Aubrey Plaza, Jeff Baena Writer and director Jeff Baena, who married Delaware actress Aubrey Plaza, died at age 47 on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. He was commemorated at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, Jan. 5. Plaza was originally set to present at the Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, but the actress didn't attend after her husband's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his Best Director acceptance speech during Sunday's Golden Globe Awards, "The Brutalist" filmmaker Brady Corbet sent his support to Plaza. "Tonight, my heart is with Aubrey Plaza and Jeff's family," Corbet said as he concluded his remarks. Lives lost: Well-known Delawareans who died in 2024: Politicians, band director, furniture store founder If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help from a professional and call 988. The United States first nationwide three-digit mental health crisis hotline 988 will connect callers with trained mental health counselors. Text HOME to 741741 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Crisis Text Line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USA TODAY reporter Brendan Morrow contributed to this report. If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at alamar@gannett.com. Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Aubrey Plaza fans show love after death of husband Jeff Baena Aidan Monaghan/Focus Features To create the dreadful world of Nosferatu, production designer Craig Lathrop designed and built some 60 sets in Prague, many of them based on real places in Germany and Transylvania. Lathrop, a longtime collaborator of writer and director Robert Eggers, spent nine months in Prague between preparing and filming. During this time, he took a few trips around the Baltic Coast and to Romania, to scout haunted castles (not to be confused with Germany's beautiful castles) for the home of vampire Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgard). After Lathrop and Eggers saw numerous sites, they settled on Romania's Corvin Castle for the exterior and Pernstejn Castle in the Czech Republic for the courtyard. Everything else was constructed. Most of what you see on screen, I built, Lathrop says. We built the interiors of the castle. We built all of the streets of the city. I built the monastery chapel with all of the frescos. The only interior we didnt build was the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The film, a retelling of 1922 silent German Expressionist Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, centers on the supernatural connection between undead Count Orlok and a haunted young woman named Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp). After Ellen marries Thomas (Nicholas Hoult), a real estate agent in the fictional German town of Wisborg, Orlok lures Thomas to Transylvania to help him move there himself. His arrival unleashes a plague on the peaceful seaside enclave, a cover for horrors untold. Here Lathrop discusses the inspirations behind Nosferatus sets and the historical research that went into it. NOSFERATU Focus Features Why was Corvin Castle right for Count Orloks home? The first images I saw of Corvin Castle, a few years ago, looked fantastic because it was falling apart. It was decaying. But after those photos were taken, they did a huge renovation and it was beautiful. We liked the look of it better than Bran Castle. There is also thought that maybe it was Corvin Castle that Bram Stoker had seen images of [for inspiration]. Was it important for the castle to feel inherently unnerving? Yes, and thats why we ended up building it. We saw a lot of beautiful castles, but they were all beautiful in the wrong way. They were cleaned up and spit-shined and ready for tourists to walk through. Or they were complete ruins with no ceiling and half the walls coming down. There wasnt anything that had this great decay and this crumbling feeling of Orloks castle. This is a count who has been in his sarcophagus for the last couple 100 years. Orlok himself is decaying and looks deceased. I wanted his environment to reflect that. NOSFERATU Aidan Monaghan/Focus Features How did you design the sarcophagus? I [was inspired by] a 15th-century sarcophagus from Poland. Orlok is Dacian so I started looking at Dacian dragons. Trajan's Column in Rome shows the battle of the Romans defeating the Dacians and you see their Dacian dragon, which has a wolfs head, so I started adding wolves heads. The feet of the casket are actually Dacian dragons. We came up with a coat of arms for Orlok to put on and added Solomonic symbols. The idea is that the more you stack up the details, the more youre creating the world. How would you describe that atmosphere in general? It depends where you are in the story. A good example is the streets of Wisborg. The first time we see Wisborg its a bustling, robust port town with this specific architecture you find on the Baltic coast. Once the plague hits, I boarded up the walls and we stripped the color away to make it more dreary. The snow is falling and theyre dragging bodies through the streets. NOSFERATU Aidan Monaghan/Focus Features Was Wisborg inspired by real German cities? Its a collage of places. Lubeck is the one I used the most. In the wide shot of Wisborg, with the help of visual effects, you can see I picked a lot of buildings from that town. The church with the spire, the famous gate, a bunch of the houseswe scanned those from Lubeck. I looked at a lot of those Hanseatic towns during my research and then I scouted some along the Baltic coast in Germany. There are some amazing towns there. The problem for us was that they had been destroyed and rebuilt several times. And the historic parts are cleaned up and used as tourists attractions, which was less useful for this movie. Is it true that you used real rats during the plague scenes? We used about 5,000 real rats. We had real rats on the streets [of Wisborg]. What you dont see, because we were clever about it, is the Plexiglass walls that were keeping the rats in a safe area on the set. Behind them, on the other side of the walls, would be the horses. We erased the edges with visual effects. In the chapel scene, we used a combination of rats and effects. In the foreground, the rats were real. But then I built what we called rat mats, which were half meter square molds of a bunch of rats climbing all over each other. Visual effects animated more rats on top of those. So we only had 5,000, but it looks like we had hundreds of thousands. NOSFERATU Aidan Monaghan/Focus Features Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did you draw on the original Nosferatu or any previous Dracula films in your design? I suppose I was always drawing on them because the story is based off those and I was trying to fulfill the needs of the story. But I didnt take anything directly. Theres a scene in the 1922 where the characters are at the beach and theres a bunch of crosses to people who had died at sea and I did recreate that, although its not an exact recreation. But I wanted it to be similar. We actually built that on a lake in the Czech Republic and brought in a bunch of sand. We were looking at going to the North Sea to do it, but we had to be fiscally responsible. Was there anywhere you visited in Prague or the Czech Republic that inspired your designs? Theres a carriage museum in Cechy pod Kosirem that was beautiful. We rented a beautifully-carved Roma wagon there, but the whole place was really inspiring. Another location we used in Prague was the Olsany Cemetery where we built the mausoleum and the grave sites around it, but I also recommend the Old Jewish Cemetery. Its absolutely breathtaking. Speculum Alchemiae is a museum about alchemy and its an amazing little spot. If you look in the apartment we built for Albin Eberhart Von Franz [played by Willem Dafoe], I used a lot of what I learned there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler Trending Travel Destinations Whether its exploring off-the-beaten-track temples and villages along the Mekong, sailing Norways fjords in search of the aurora borealis, or taking the family on a Disney cruise, there is almost certainly a cruise out there for you. But dont leave it too long to book. Ambassador Cruise Line sails from eight ports around the UK to destinations including Norway and the Canaries. Simon Weeks, chief revenue officer, says that while there will always be demand for last-minute deals, planning is particularly beneficial for no-fly cruises. If youre contemplating a no-fly cruise, capacity will be particularly tight at certain times of the year, he explains. Because of strong demand, we have launched our 2026/27 season five months earlier than in previous years. Whether its river or ocean cruising, some cabins are always more popular than others. Among the first to sell are balcony and family rooms. Balcony cabins across the Marella Cruises fleet are the most popular, says a representative from Tui. Most river ships hold between 120 and 170 passengers and suites get snapped up quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Andy Hawke, product manager at Fred Olsen Holidays, there has been a significant rise in demand for river cruises to long-haul destinations, particularly Asia and the US. Theres also a growing appetite for spending more time in a destination, with many extending their holidays to visit highlights such as Graceland in the US, or Cambodias Angkor Wat or opting for back-to-back cruises like our new Kerala and Brahmaputra combination. Cruise regulars may advocate booking during the so-called Wave period when many cruise companies introduce offers such as onboard spending credit, fare reductions, free drinks packages, low deposits, flight savings, free shore excursions and discounts on pre- and post-cruise extensions. Wave offers are usually announced in early January and can be taken advantage of until March or early April. So act quickly and you could be sailing the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean in just a few weeks time. 10 sure-to-be-popular cruises for 2025 Sail the Lesser Antilles with celebrity chef Ben Robinson Broad sweeps of sand, cerulean reef-fringed water and Caribbean-island vibes sounds like the perfect cure for the post-Christmas blues and joining this cruise around the Lesser Antilles is celebrity chef Ben Robinson. He served an apprenticeship at three-Michelin star restaurant The Fat Duck before going on to star in Bravos Below Deck, Below Deck Mediterranean and spin-off Galley Talk. Celebrity chef Ben Robinson served an apprenticeship at three-Michelin star restaurant The Fat Duck - NBCUniversal The eight-day sailing on the stylish Emerald Azzurra departs from San Juan in Puerto Rico, before island hopping to Iles des Saints, the US and British Virgin Islands, St Barths and St Kitts and St Johns in Antigua. Highlights include a visit to charming Deshaies on Guadeloupe (the scenic star of BBC Ones popular crime series Death in Paradise), a trip to the pink-sand beaches of Barbuda and a snorkelling trip around the legendary Norman Island in the British Virgin Islands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guests will also learn how to recreate one of Robinsons creations at an interactive cooking demo and enjoy a signature multi-course dinner in the yachts dining room, La Cucina. Book it A seven-night Hidden Charms of the Caribbean cruise starts from 6,020pp including flights, transfers, Wi-Fi and some excursions, departing on January 25, 2025 (0161 516 8437; emeraldcruises.co.uk). Witness the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt Tranquil, scenic and culturally immersive, the Nile is without doubt the best way to experience ancient Egypts pharaonic temples, royal tombs and hieroglyphic chambers. Among the mightiest of them all is Abu Simbel, which was carved from a sandstone mountain by command of the warrior king Ramses II. Be a sun worshipper and visit the Great Temple of Abu Simbel during the festival - Alamy Stock Photo The temple is guarded by four colossal 20m-high figures made in the kings image. Twice a year an alignment of the sun and the temples inner sanctum illuminates statues of Ramses, the sun gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty and part of the statue of the god, Ptah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passengers on board the luxurious ship the Oberoi Zahra can visit on February 22 as part of an exclusive sunrise tour. The recently refurbished vessel has new suites with hot tubs and private terraces. Before joining the cruise in Aswan, consider spending a few days in Cairo where the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum has opened the first galleries at its new location near the pyramids in Giza. Book it A three-night round-trip cruise from Aswan to Luxor, departing on February 22, 2025 costs from 1,668 per cabin excluding flights. The Abu Simbel Sun Festival excursion costs 201 and requires a pre-cruise night in Aswan (00 20 65 346 1040; oberoihotels.com). See the northern lights and become a citizen scientist One of the best ways to experience the aurora borealis is on a scenic cruise along Norways coast. With the sun approaching a new solar maximum phase, theres a good chance of witnessing some aurora magic this year. This no-fly itinerary spends two weeks in Norway where the ship, Ambience, sails as far north as Alta, deep inside the Arctic Circle. Passengers can visit fishing villages and picturesque fjord-side hamlets and spend time in the cities of Bergen, Troms and Alesund. Trip the lights fantastic in Norway and see the aurora borealis this year In Norways alluring Lofoten archipelago, Ambience will dock at the harbour town of Leknes, which is framed by soaring snow-tipped mountains. In Alta, meanwhile, there is an opportunity to see Unesco-listed petroglyphs and rock paintings. Guest speakers Clive Harvey and Stephen Garcia will be on board along with two ocean conservationists from the marine charity Orca. Join them on deck to learn how scientific data is gathered and to look out for whales, dolphins and porpoises. Book it A 17-night Norways Land of the Northern Lights cruise costs from 1,439pp, departing round-trip from Tilbury on March 20, 2025 (0808 296 7447; ambassadorcruiseline.com). Scottish highs on the Caledonian Canal There is so much choice when it comes to cruise destinations that its easy to overlook the scenery, culture and wildlife on offer at home. Scotlands network of navigable waterways and remote offshore islands are perfect cruise territory for smaller ships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This itinerary visits the rugged islands of Mull and Iona before moving to the Caledonian Canal. The 60-mile-long Thomas Telford-designed canal bisects Scotlands Great Glen and passengers can admire brooding Ben Nevis and ascend a series of eight locks known as Neptunes Staircase while on board. There are excursions to the site of the Battle of Culloden, fought in 1746 near Inverness, and to picturesque Gairlochy for views over pretty Loch Shiel from the Glenfinnan Monument. The 60-mile-long Thomas Telford-designed Caledonian Canal bisects Scotlands Great Glen Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 36-passenger Lord of the Highlands ship sails the length of Loch Ness to approach Inverness, and passengers can also look forward to fine dining in the elegant Caledonian restaurant and a nightly wee dram in the cosy Panorama Lounge. Book it A six-night Call of Culloden cruise from Oban to Inverness costs from 3,700pp including Wi-Fi, tips, excursions and drinks, departing on April 11 (01756 704704; hebridean.co.uk). Festival season on the Mississippi Spring is festival season in New Orleans. As well as being one of the prettiest times to visit, its also the last of the cooler months and hence still pleasant to sit out on deck and watch the scenery roll by. Passengers can delve into the USs literary and Civil War history, get an insight into Cajun heritage, tour antebellum villas and explore the blues capital Memphis. On board there are views of the lush wetlands, birds and fertile farmlands of the Lower Mississippi from the balcony rooms, restaurants and Explorers Lounge and Bar. This departure coincides with the second weekend of Jazz Fest (May 2-5, 2025) with a line-up that includes international stars as well as local favourites such as Trombone Shorty. Book it A seven-night Mississippi Delta Explorer cruise from New Orleans to Memphis costs from 5,595pp including flights. Departs May 3, 2025 (0800 319 66 60; viking.com). Summer holiday cruising Uniworld is one of the few river cruise lines to cater specifically for families during the summer holidays. This fun Rhine holiday includes a visit to Speyers Technik Museum (think submarines, a space shuttle, vintage cars and a Boeing 737), a cycle along the river towards the castles of Stolzenfels and Lahneck and a gargoyles-and-chocolate tour in the riverside city of Cologne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Younger children can take a storybook tour of the half-timbered village of Kaysersberg and try slices of Gugelhupf, a popular Alsatian cake. Plus, there are child-friendly menus on board the ship, dessert-making classes with the pastry chef, movie nights, a games room and dedicated family hosts to oversee the childcare. Book it A seven-night Castles on the Rhine Generations cruise costs from 4,099pp per person departing on July 31, 2025. Includes flights, drinks including champagne and unlimited drinks for children (0808 168 9110; uniworld.com). Disneys new sailing Disney Cruise Lines ship Fantasy will sail from Southampton for the first time this year, in time for the school holidays. For younger cruisers, Disney ships are a whirlwind of activities and experiences but there are also quiet areas, adult-only restaurants and a luxurious spa for pampering. Family fun awaits on board Disney Cruise Lines ship Fantasy - Steven Diaz There are excursions to Santiago de Compostela and Galicia in Spain and a walking and tapas tour of La Coruna. On board, youngsters can enjoy character breakfasts, experience real-time interaction with Crush the sea turtle via giant screens at the Animators Palace restaurant and careen through the ship in the transparent AquaDuck water slide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Royal Court restaurant is inspired by Disney Princess films including Cinderella, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast. If parents fancy a night off there are adult-only restaurants and hosts to take care of the children. Sounds like a win-win for everyone. Book it Five nights on board Disney Fantasy calling at Vigo and La Coruna in Spain costs from 1,308pp, departing round-trip from Southampton on August 5, 2025 (0800 169 0742; disneycruise.disney.go.com). Grand Prix on the river Heres a long-haul adventure you wont forget in a hurry. The 21-night holiday kicks off in Singapore with tickets to the citys night-time Grand Prix before embarking on an off-the-beaten-track cruise on the remote Red River in Vietnam. Singapores Marina Bay Street Circuit was the first night-time race in the sports history and this three-day F1 extravaganza includes access to all the practice sessions and qualifying races as well as the race-day seats. From Singapore, passengers fly to Hanoi for five nights before joining the intimate teak-and-brass Angkor Pandaw on the Red River. Excursions take passengers to temples and pagodas, riverside villages, remote mountain communities and the Ba Vi National Park. The 10-night cruise sails as far as is navigable along the Red River delta before turning into the Da River tributary. Book it A 21-night Singapore F1 Grand Prix and Halong Bay and The Red River holiday costs from 8,249pp including international and internal flights, the Grand Prix ticket and four hotel nights in Singapore and five in Hanoi, with breakfast. Departs Oct 1, 2025 (0800 988 3369; fredholidays.co.uk). Celebrate Christmas and New Year in style Cunards newest ship, Queen Anne, sets sail from Southampton on December 21 for mainland Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands and arrives back in the UK on January 4, 2026. If youre the type that likes to trade in Christmas chores for warmer climes this festive cruise could be the gift that keeps on giving. Explore the atmospheric Spanish port city of Cadiz - Moment RF Christmas Eve is spent in Cadiz, with an optional excursion to Seville, and Christmas Day will bring carols around the Grand Lobbys bauble-decked tree, Champagne toasts and roast Norfolk turkey with all the trimmings. On New Years Eve, Queen Anne will dock in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. The celebrations will include a fabulous ball, the famous countdown featuring a balloon drop, then more toasting to welcome in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Queen Anne ship has a theatre and a glamourous show bar, stylish indoor and outdoor pools, the lines first Japanese restaurant and age-specific childrens clubs. Book it A 14-night Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote) Celebration cruise round-trip from Southampton on December 21, 2025, costs from 2,559pp (0344 338 8641; cunard.com). Head south for a once-in-a-lifetime trip This epic trip on a refurbished Dutch oceanographic research vessel visits the Falkland Islands and South Georgia before setting sail for the mountains, snowy islands and ice-speckled bays of the Antarctic Peninsula. Located north-east of the peninsula, South Georgia is a haven for yellow-necked king penguins, populations of grey-headed and wandering albatross and several species of petrel. The Falklands is also home to penguins, as well as vast colonies of seabirds. South Georgia has a large population of yellow-necked king penguins - E+ Before reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, the 108-passenger MV Plancius, named after Dutch cartographer and astronomer Petrus Plancius, calls at Orcadas station, an Argentine base on Laurie Island in the South Orkney islands, where researchers share their glacier-covered terrain with penguins and fur seals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The final four days of the cruise are spent in the mesmerising Antarctic Peninsula. In spring, as the so-called White Continent begins to thaw, icebergs, ice floes and sea ice are at their most impressive, all of which can be seen from an observation lounge and bar. The curious-minded can also find out more about the area in the on-board library and lecture theatre. The cruise operator, Responsible Travel, supports wildlife organisations including Save the Albatross, Wader Quest and the South Georgia Habitat Restoration Project. Book it A 21-day Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica cruise round-trip from Ushuaia costs from 11,799pp (single-sex quad-share) or 13,999pp (twin-share) departing on November 27, 2025 (01273 823 700; responsibletravel.com). Return flights to Buenos Aires from 1,249pp (ba.com). 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. Is your ideal getaway full of relaxation and beer? According to USA Today, New Hampshire has the perfect place to stay. USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards recently released its list of best brewery hotels, and one in New Hampshire ranked among the best in the country. The annual 10Best awards highlight the best in travel, food and lifestyle, and winners are chosen by a public voting poll after being nominated by industry experts. In the best brewery hotel awards, highlighting brewery hotels across the United States that "every beer lover needs to visit," New Hampshire's Woodstock Inn Brewery made the list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know before visiting the state's best place for a sip and sleep. About Woodstock Inn Brewery Get cozy by the fireplace at Woodstock Inn Brewery in New Hampshire A country inn settled in the White Mountains, Woodstock Inn Brewery is the perfect destination for skiers and hikers to unwind with a pint. The brewery has over 20 signature beers, which can be tried on a brewery tour, in one of the four pubs, on the patio or in the hotel's award-winning restaurant, which serves up American-style bar bites and comfort food. Those who want the sweet smells of beer to waft into their dreams can stay in a choice of 40 rooms and suites across six buildings, all uniquely styled. All bookings can be made online. Woodstock Inn Brewery can be found at 135 Main St., North Woodstock, NH. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Hampshire's award-winning liquor: This NH distillery just ranked among the best for craft specialty spirits, per USA Today What other hotels made the list? Here is USA Today's full list of the eight best brewery hotels, in no specific order: Woodstock Inn Brewery - Woodstock, New Hampshire Ellis Island Casino Hotel & Brewery - Las Vegas, Nevada Doghouse Hotel & Brewery - Canal Winchester, Ohio Brewhouse Inn & Suites - Milwaukee, Wisconsin McMenamins Kennedy School - Portland, Oregon Trapp Family Lodge - Stowe, Vermont Northern Outdoors' Kennebec River Pub & Brewery - Forks, Maine Hotel Emma - San Antonio, Texas This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Woodstock Inn Brewery named one of best brewery hotels. See why Fox News host Greg Gutfeld has opened up about life at home with a new baby as he returned to screens for the first time in weeks after spending 46 days settling into his new role as a father at his $10.5 million New York City apartment. Gutfeld, 60, who appears on two Fox News showsThe Five and late night comedy show, Gutfeld!candidly admitted that much of the burden of caring for his newborn daughter has fallen to his wife, Elena Moussa, 42, because he is terrible at everything. The on-air star announced that he and his spouse had welcomed their first child, Mira, together in December, ending weeks of speculation and worry surrounding his seemingly mysterious disappearance from their screens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, he released a short statement about the birth, saying: It is with great joy that my wife Elena and I have welcomed a baby girl into the world. Mira is healthy with a real set of lungs. He then joked that his baby girl has his wifes beautiful eyes and his rock-hard abs. Greg Gutfeld has opened up about his first few weeks as a father after welcoming a baby daughter with his wife Elena Moussa. Fox News The Fox News host and his spouse welcomed baby Mira in December. Instagram/Greg Gutfeld Perhaps in preparation for fatherhood, Gutfeld purchased a Soho loft in July 2024 for $10.5 million. MLS Now, hes continuing to inject some humor into his portrayal of parenthood, confessing during his Monday appearance on The Five that while he wife spent time doing late night feeds and changing diapers at their Manhattan home, he offered emotional support. I kind of wander around and go, Is everything okay?' he said when asked by co-host Dana Perino whether he was helping with the 2 a.m. feeds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I give emotional support, but you know, Elena is kind of, like, pretty hands-on and keeps me away from it. She said to me that Im terrible at everything, like, she says, Im very clumsy. Gutfelds co-host Jesse Watters then questioned what he had been doing during the 46 days of paternity leave that he took, prompting the new dad to confess that he had watched everything [Yellowstone creator] Taylor Sheridan has ever put out. However, the TV star did do one key thing to prepare for his expanded family: acquiring a stunning new home where he and Moussa can raise their child. Property records reveal that the TV host purchased a $10.5 million loft in the upscale neighborhood of SoHo in July, making the deal via the same LLC that he used in the purchase of his former New York home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Located in a 1900s-era, six-story building, which recently underwent a luxury conversion by architect DXA Studio. The condo offers 3,560 square feet of living space. The unit previously changed hands in 2021 for $8,550,000and its listing photos reveal a sweet space already set up to serve as a childs bedroom. Despite snapping up a stunning new abode, Gutfeld appears to have retained his former New York residence, a three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment just a stones throw from his new dwelling. A view inside the luxe interior. Courtesy DXA studio Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One room was already outfitted as a childs bedroom. Courtesy DXA studio When the family want to escape the city, they head upstate to South Salem, where they purchased a lake house in 2018. Instagram/Greg Gutfeld Rather than put that home on the market, he instead chose to list it for rent for a whopping $24,000 a month back in Septemberwith the listing coming down just days later, suggesting it had already found a new tenant. That property spanned 2,200 square feetmeaning that his new home offers more than 1,000 square feet in additional living space, ideal for all of the baby items Gutfeld and Moussa will no doubt be using these days. And should they wish to escape life in the city, the couple can escape to upstate New Yorks South Salem area, where Gutfeld purchased a lake house in 2018. Occasionally, the popular host will share an image of the contemporary wood-and-glass build on social media, although the majority of his Instagram posts focus on the couples beloved French bulldog, Gus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gutfeld and Moussa, who married in 2004, met in Portugal while he was an editor at Maxim UK and she was a photo editor for Maxim Russia. Speaking to Bill Maher on the Club Random podcast, Gutfeld recalled their first meeting. He knew from the start that the two of them were destined to end up together, he said. I met her and I go, Oh, thats my wife. I just knew it, he said. And then I spent three days in Portugal trying to talk to her. Clearly, he was successful because the pair were married just five months later. Related Articles Destination Panama City, the official promotion and marketing agency for the local government, launched a self-guided tour up (or down) Cove Boulevard's business district on Dec 16. The project, entitled the "Glenwood Historical Marker Trail," encourages people to explore the rich contributions made by Black entrepreneurs. To access the free tour, download the Otocast app from either the Google Play Store or the iPhone App Store, and search for the "Glenwood Historical Markers Trail." The experience is available for both Android and iOS smartphones. Myron Hines, a Panama City resident, highlights a few of the pages of his photo book, Historical Journey Up Cove Boulevard, Oct. 30, 2024. (Tyler Orsburn/News Herald) The tourism and education campaign took its inspiration from Myron Hines' photo book, "Historical Journey Up Cove Boulevard." The retired Glenwood resident and former broadcast cameraman's book, first published in 2020, transports readers to the many stoops along the main road's business district, from U.S. Business 98 to 15th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the businesses recognized along the tour: Wilson Bros. Barber Shop, established in 1946; Lady Ethels Beauty College, established in 1947; Lewis Bail Bonding, established in 1955; Lees Motel, established in 1967; Reeds Paint & Body, established in 1982; and Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, established in 1909. The Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, established in 1909, and its historical marker are seen along MLK Boulevard in Panama City. "The travelers that we have in Panama City range in age from 18 to 65 and older," Jennifer Vigil, president and CEO of Destination Panama City, said, describing who might be interested in such a self-guided experience. "And what we find with the visitation is that they're more interested in cultural and creative amenities. So this would be right along the lines of what our normal visitor would be doing." Black History Month begins Feb. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vigil added that her office plans to expand the city's virtual trail system with three more experiences: An Ale Trail; a Mural Trail; and an Oyster Trail. For more information about Glenwood's business district revival, contact Janice Lucas, city commissioner, at (850) 872-3002, or email jlucas@panamacity.gov And for more information about Destination Panama City, or how to use the Otocast app, contact Vigil at (850) 215-1700 or jennifer@destinationpanamacity.com This article originally appeared on The News Herald: New app unveils hidden gems of historic Black business district Traveling to the United Kingdom is about to get more expensive thanks to the countrys plans to implement a new electronic travel authorization (ETA) fee this week. The long-anticipated ETA will be required for most travelers arriving in the country, including from the United States, starting Wednesday, Jan. 8. The ETA will be valid for multiple entries. Seema Malhotra, the UKs minister for migration and citizenship, has said the ETA demonstrates our commitment to enhance security through new technology and embedding a modern immigration system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is everything travelers need to know about the ETA from how much it will cost to how to apply, and more. When will the ETA go into effect? The ETA fee will go into effect on Jan. 8 for travelers from dozens of countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, Mexico, and more. Then on April 2, travelers from European countries will similarly be required to apply to enter the UK. The ETA has been required for travelers from several Gulf countries since 2023 and 2024, including from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. How much will it cost? An ETA costs 10 ($12.51) to apply and is linked to a travelers passport. How often will it be required? Once. Each authorization will be valid for multiple trips over two years (or until the travelers passport expires) for stays of up to six months at a time. How do you apply? Travelers can apply either through a mobile app for iOS or through Google Play, or online. Each person must apply separately, and decisions are typically offered within three working days or less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travelers who apply through the app are more likely to get a faster decision. What information will be required for an application? To apply for the ETA, travelers will need to upload a photo of their passport and a photo of themselves. They will also need access to their email as well as a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Who is exempt from paying the fee? There are several exemptions to the ETA, including travelers with dual British or Irish citizenship and those who have permission to live, work, or study in the UK. Does the U.S. have anything similar? Yes. In the U.S., visitors must also apply for a similar authorization before coming called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (or ESTA), which is available to travelers from countries granted a Visa Waiver Program. The application fee for ESTA costs $21. What about visiting the rest of Europe? The European Commission plans to roll out its own electronic authorization called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (or ETIAS). That system is expected to go into effect sometime this year for travelers from dozens of visa-exempt countries, including from the U.S. That fee will cost 7 ($7.27). Read the original article on Travel & Leisure The Urasar project is positioned along a regional structural zone that juxtaposes an older package of ophiolitic rocks with younger volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks. Gold and copper mineralization are localized along the contact zones throughout the Urasar exploration license and elsewhere in the region. Urasar saw historic copper production by the French during World War I and was later explored by the Soviets in the 1920's, 1930's and 1950's. Several Soviet era resources were defined (in accordance with the Soviet reporting systems at the time), but virtually no work has been completed since. The styles of mineralization at Urasar bear resemblance to the styles of mineralization in the Sokt gold deposit, the largest developed gold deposit in Armenia. Further information on the project is summarized on Hayasa's website. Overview of the Urasar Project. The Urasar gold-copper project was acquired by Hayasa in 2023 by direct acquisition of an exploration license from the Armenian government following an assessment of the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt by Hayasa that was led by Dennis Moore. Mr. Moore is a well-known and accomplished explorer who is credited with the discoveries of the Tocantinzinho and Cuiu Cuiu gold deposits in Brazil. As part of the transaction, EMX and Franco will have a right of first refusal in respect of any royalty, stream or similar interest on Urasar. 500,000 share purchase warrants, which can be exercised on a one-for-one basis for common shares of Hayasa within 18 months at a strike price of C$0.22 per share (EMX and Franco will each receive 250,000 of the share purchase warrants). A 1.25% NSR royalty interest to be shared evenly between EMX and Franco (i.e. each company will receive a 0.625% NSR royalty interest) that covers the Urasar project licenses and a surrounding area of interest; and Commercial Terms Overview. EMX and Franco will pay Hayasa a combined US$1 million (with EMX contributing US$450,000 and Franco contributing US$550,000 in accordance with the terms of the Joint Acquisition Agreement) in exchange for: Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (the "Company" or "EMX") is pleased to announce the purchase of a 0.625% NSR royalty interest covering all minerals produced from the Urasar gold-copper project in northern Armenia, which is wholly owned and being advanced by Hayasa Metals Inc. ("Hayasa", (TSXV: HAY), formerly Fremont Gold Ltd. Further to a Joint Acquisition Agreement between EMX and Franco-Nevada Corporation ("Franco") entered into in 2023 (see EMX News Release dated August 1, 2023), Franco has also acquired a 0.625% NSR royalty. Story Continues Armenia has seen recent exploration and development efforts by other western companies, including Orion Mine Finance and Osisko Gold Royalties, who are working to develop the Amulsar gold project in southern Armenia. In addition to its modern mining code and favorable fiscal regime, Armenia currently has over ten active metals mines, and mining is a significant contributor to its GDP. EMX believes that Urasar has potential to become a significant discovery based upon the historical work done on the property, new surface geochemical and geophysical data collected by Hayasa, and overall geological characteristics. The royalty acquisition at Urasar represents the first co-investment between EMX and Franco as part of their Joint Acquisition Agreement. Comments on Historical Mineral Resources. EMX does not consider the historical mineral resources defined at Urasar during the Soviet era to be compliant with NI 43-101 standards, nor is EMX treating the historic resources as current resources on the project. They are discussed here strictly for their historical context and should not be relied upon until they can be confirmed. Comments on Nearby Mines and Deposits. The mines and deposits discussed in this news release provide context for EMX's projects, which occur in similar geologic settings, but this is not necessarily indicative that the Company's projects host similar styles, tonnages or grades of mineralization. Dr. Eric P. Jensen, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and employee of 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. For further information contact: David M. Cole President and CEO Phone: (303) 973-8585 Dave@EMXroyalty.com Isabel Belger Investor Relations Phone: +49 178 4909039 IBelger@EMXroyalty.com 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/236237 Tomiko Itooka was the oldest known person in the world when she died last month at age 116. Another 116-year-old, Inah Canabarro Lucas of Brazil, now holds the title. Here are the two women's very different explanations for their longevity. A combination of genetics, lifestyle, and luck are thought to contribute to a person's longevity but we don't know for sure why some people live so long. The world's oldest known living person has a very different explanation for her longevity than her predecessor did. Tomiko Itooka, who lived in Ashiya, Japan, died on December 29 at the age of 116 years and 220 days. She was succeeded by Inah Canabarro Lucas, a nun who lives in Porto Alegre, Brazil, and was 116 and 212 days old as of January 6. Lucas is one of only three living people confirmed to have been born before 1910. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's extremely rare to live to 116 a Pew Research Center analysis of US Census data in January of last year found that just 0.03% of the US population was over 100. Here's what Itooka and Lucas credited their longevity to. Itooka said bananas and a Japanese drink helped her live to 116 Itooka married at 20 and was an office manager at her husband's factory during World War II, according to LongeviQuest, an organization that verifies the ages of supercentenarians. She was very active and enjoyed hiking. She twice climbed Mount Ontake, which is 10,062 feet high, and did a pilgrimage of more than 600 miles to 33 temples in the Kansai region in her 80s. An old ad for Calpis, the fermented, yogurt-flavored drink Itooka drank every day. Pictures From History/Universal Images Group via Getty Images LongeviQuest reported that Itooka also drank a popular Japanese fermented drink called Calpis every morning and loved bananas two things she credited her longevity to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's some evidence that lactic-acid bacteria, which are found in Calpis, could be beneficial for longevity, according to a 2024 review published in the journal Aging and Disease. But the researchers say further investigation is needed. Fermented foods are generally great for gut health because they increase the diversity of microbes in the digestive system, the epidemiologist and nutrition expert Tim Spector previously told Business Insider. Hiking could also have contributed to Itooka's longevity. A 2016 American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine article said such activity could offset the life-shortening impacts of being sedentary. Lucas attributed her longevity to God Lucas was a teacher who became a Catholic nun at the age of 26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has said she thinks God is the secret to her longevity. "He is the secret of life. He is the secret of everything," she told LongeviQuest last February. Researchers from LongeviQuest previously told BI that religiousness was a common trait among the oldest people in Latin America they'd verified. While Latin America does have a large religious population, research suggests that religion and other sources of purpose are linked to longevity. A 2018 study by researchers at Ohio State University on 1,600 obituaries found that people whose obituaries mentioned religious activities lived, on average, 10 years longer than those whose obituaries did not. The researchers thought this could be because religion gives people social support and opportunities to volunteer. Read the original article on Business Insider NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) North Charleston officers responded to a shooting at McDonalds Monday evening, the department said. Just before 7:30 p.m., police arrived to the McDonalds on Ashley Phosphate Road at the intersection of Northside Drive, Harve Jacobs, spokesperson for the North Charleston Police Department, explained. Once on the scene, authorities learned one male had been shot inside the restaurant. The injured man was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Police did not say the extent of the victims injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests have been made so far in connection to the shooting. Multiple witnesses recounted information about the shooting suspect to police on scene, officers said. An investigation is ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A one-year-old suffered serious injuries after getting hold of an improperly stored pistol, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Around 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, officers responded to an apartment on Fairmarket Place off of The Plaza in east Charlotte. Woman killed after being hit by car in north Charlotte: CMPD Police said a one-year-old boy accessed a firearm that was not stored properly. The gun went off, seriously injuring and hospitalizing the baby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the report, there are two suspects that are both related to the boy. Inside the residence, officers found two pistols and 2.1 grams of marijuana. It is unclear if the boy will fully recover from his injuries or how severe the injuries are. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) One person was injured in a rollover crash on Monday night, Jan. 6 in Northeast El Paso, fire dispatch said. The crash happened just before 6 p.m. at Gateway North and Sean Haggerty, dispatch said. The crash involved two vehicles, one of which rolled. One person was transported to a local hospital with what were called minor injuries, dispatch 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 KTSM 9 News. NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) If you resolve to laugh more in the new year, youre in luck. Many of the countrys top comedians will stop in the Charleston area in 2025. Comedian and actor Kumail Nanjiani (Silicon Valley, The Big Sick) will kick off a stretch of top talent in Charleston when he brings the laughs to the Charleston Music Hall on January 19. Kumail Nanjiani arrives at the premiere of Only Murders in the Building at Paramount Pictures on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Patton Oswalt (Ratatouille, The King of Queens) will perform at the theater just days later on January 25, and Dave Attell will host his stand-up show at the music hall on January 26. Patton Oswalt speaks at the 33rd American Cinematheque Award honoring Charlize Theron at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Over at the North Charleston Coliseum, comedian, writer, and podcaster Tom Segura will entertain an audience through his Come Together tour on February 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Carolinas own Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation) will perform at the Gillard Center on March 1 as part of his Hypothetical Tour. Aziz Ansari, a cast member, writer and director of the upcoming film Good Fortune, waves to photographers before the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon 2024, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish (Girls Trip) will her Funny and Fearless tour to the Charleston Music Hall on March 28. The show is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tiffany Haddish poses at the premiere of the film Strange Darling at the Directors Guild of America, Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Golden Girls are back! Well, sort of. Comedians portraying Rose, Dorothy, Blanche and Sophia will bring their show, Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue, to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center for a night of laughs and cheesecake on April 1. North Carolina native Fortune Feimster (Chelsea Lately, The Mindy Project) will bring her Takin Care of Biscuits stand-up tour to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center on April 5. Fortune Feimster arrives at the premiere of Family Switch, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, at The Grove in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Longtime comedian and actor Jim Gaffigan comes to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center on May 3 for his Everything is Wonderful! tour. The show is scheduled for 8 p.m. Jim Gaffigan poses in the press room at the 81st Golden Globe Awards on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Matt Rifes Stay Golden Tour comes to the North Charleston Coliseum on June 21. Rife started his standup at age 15 and grew to a much larger audience after showcasing his crowd interactions on social media. This will be his second tour stop in the Lowcountry. Matt Rife arrives at the 82nd Golden Globes on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) 12 concerts coming to Charleston in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a look at some of the comedy tours coming to the Charleston area that have been announced as of January 7. Additional shows are likely. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Security forces clashed with gunmen on Monday in one of Mexico's most violent states, leaving 10 suspected criminals dead and three police officers injured, authorities said. The early morning shootout happened during a joint patrol by police and the military in the municipality of Yuriria in Guanajuato, a central industrial region that is also home to warring drug cartels. The Guanajuato state security department initially reported that eight gunmen had been killed, but later said two more bodies had been found with gunshot wounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With this discovery, it is confirmed that there are 10 members (of a criminal group) neutralized," it said. Security personnel employed a "legitimate and proportional use of force" during the clash, in which three police officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries, according to a statement. A dozen firearms were seized along with several stolen vehicles and ballistic vests, it added. 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. And gang-related violence has shown no sign of abating since Claudia Sheinbaum took office on October 1, becoming Mexico's first woman president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has ruled out declaring war on the cartels and instead proposed to continue her predecessor's strategy of using social policy to tackle crime at its roots, while also making better use of intelligence. Recent bloodshed in Guanajuato Guanajuato, an industrial and farming hub, has for years had the highest number of homicides of any of Mexico's 32 states. The Jalisco cartel and the local Santa Rosa de Lima gang have been locked in a yearslong turf battle in the state. Just last month, eight people were killed and two others wounded after gunmen pulled up to a roadside stand in Guanajuato and opened fire on customers and bystanders. Members of Guanajuato's state Criminal Investigation Unit conduct an investigation in the commercial area of Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato state, Mexico, where eight people were murdered Saturday night by a group of several armed men on December 1, 2024. / Credit: MARIO ARMAS/AFP via Getty Images On October 4, the bodies of 12 slain police officers all bearing signs of torture and left with messages by cartels were found in different areas of Salamanca, a town in Guanajuato. The state prosecutor's office also said the perpetrators left messages in which a cartel claimed responsibility. Messages are often left on victims' bodies by cartels seeking to threaten their rivals or punish behavior they claim violates their rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bodies were found less than 24 hours after gunmen attacked a residential center for people suffering from addictions in the same municipality, killing four. In June, a baby and a toddler were among six members of the same family murdered in Guanajuato. In April, a mayoral candidate was shot dead in the street in Guanajuato just as she began campaigning. The U.S. State Department urges Americans to reconsider traveling to Guanajuato. "Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence," the department says in a travel advisory. Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada What's next after Jimmy Carter's casket arrives in D.C. Judge denies Trump's request to delay "hush money" case sentencing EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) One person is facing human smuggling charges after 11 migrants were found padlocked in the back of a U-Haul box truck shortly before midnight on New Years Eve, a spokesman for Customs and Border Protection said on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The migrants were found in the rented truck at about 11:45 p.m. on Dec. 31 in Hurley, New Mexico, the spokesman said. Eleven were in the back of the truck and another migrant was up front as a passenger. All 12 are being processed under Title 8. The driver, who had a Mexican drivers license, was arrested and is facing human smuggling charges, the spokesman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Police Department in Hurley, which is about 15 miles southeast of Silver City, had contacted Border Patrol for assistance. El Paso Sector Border Patrol Chief Anthony Scott Good posted about the migrants being found on social media but provided few other details. KTSM reached out to CBP for further details, which they provided. Good said in his post that the incident was a stark reminder of the lengths smugglers will take to evade detection and endanger lives. Border Patrol provided some additional information, saying the migrants in the back of the truck had limited airflow and were padlocked inside the rear compartment prior to the arrival of law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the migrants were from Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador and Honduras. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. An 11-year-old daughter in New York and her grandmother were killed by her father before police say he killed himself. The Brighton Police Department received a call about a female being found unresponsive and not breathing on the front porch of 50 Hollyvale Drive on the morning of Friday, Jan. 3, police said in a press release. The female, identified as 11-year-old Anne Mancuso (also known as Annie, per a GoFundMe made for her mother, Sarah Liccini), was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital, where police say she died from "gunshot wounds." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon further investigation, officers discovered a bullet hole in a window and open doors at the adjacent house, 60 Hollyvale Drive, leading them to the discovery of the bodies of 53-year-old Lawrence Mancuso, Anne's father, and 74-year-old Mary Liccini, Anne's grandmother. Related: Interior Designer Arrested 19 Years After Murder of Girlfriend and 2-Week-Old Twins. Here's Why Police Think He Did It Getty Stock image of police sirens Stock image of police sirens Liccini was Anne's maternal grandmother, per the GoFundMe. "The investigation concluded that Lawrence Mancuso was responsible for the deaths of Anne and Mary before taking his own life," police said. Mancuso and his daughter resided in different addresses, per the press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to WROC-TV, 13 WHAM ABC and The Ithaca Times, Mancuso worked at Cornell University as the Assistant Dean for Human Resources in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations before going on a leave of absence in October 2024. PEOPLE has reached out to the university for comment. In a statement, Brighton Central School District Superintendent Kevin McGowan remembered Anne as a sixth grader who "was known to her friends and teachers as a kind, sweet, and beautiful person in every way." "A thoughtful, caring student and very special friend, Annie was such a gift to her friends, family, and school community," McGowan wrote. Related: Beloved Nev. Father of 9 Was Stabbed to Death, Suspect Is Victim's 12-Year-Old Daughter Ashley Baker, the mother of Anne's friend A'Laila, told 13 WHAM ABC that Anne was the first friend her daughter made in school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Annie kind of took her under her wing, showed her around, gave her a friend when she didn't know anybody at all, and just made her feel more comfortable being in that new space, a new environment," Baker told the outlet. In addition to holding a vigil on Saturday, neighbors are showing their love and support after the preteen's death by lighting candles for eleven consecutive days, per WROC-TV. "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," neighbor Susan Pearlberg told the news station. 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. "Its been overwhelming for the past couple of days in our neighborhood," Pearlberg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org. Read the original article on People Eleven Yemeni detainees at Guantanamo Bay have been transferred to Oman, marking yet another detainee transfer from the military prison in the final days of the Biden administration. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin notified Congress in September 2023 of his intent to transfer the detainees to Oman, the Pentagon said in a news release Monday. The detainees who were transferred include: 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 None of the men had been charged with a crime during their detention, a defense official said. President Joe Biden made it a goal early in his tenure to close Guantanamo Bay. With two weeks left in his term, 15 detainees remain at the detention facility with three eligible for transfer, according to the news release from the Department of Defense. The facility held about 40 detainees at the start of the Biden administration. At least one of the Yemeni men transferred Qassim was subjected to severe torture and mistreatment, initially at Bagram airbase, then Kandahar and Guantanamo, including beatings, sleep deprivation, extreme isolation, exposure to freezing temperatures, forced standing and stress positions, according to Reprieve, a human rights and legal non-profit organization. We are grateful to the Biden Administration for effecting this transfer and are overjoyed that Khalid is a free man, but must never forget the appalling injustice he has been subjected to, a member of Qassims legal team, Tom Wilner, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN has reached out to the Department of Defense for comment. In recent weeks, the US has also transferred four other Guantanamo Bay detainees to Kenya, Malaysia, and Tunisia. And last month, a military appeals court put back on track plea deals for three alleged co-conspirators of the 9/11 attacks, including suspected mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, after Austin attempted to step in and reject the deals. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Joe Raedle/Getty Images; Andrew Harnik/Getty Images; ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images; Sheila Fitzgerald/shutterstock; Brian Fluharty/Getty Images It's never to early to start talking about the next presidential election, right? Where presidential politics is concerned, theres no time like the present to begin jockeying for the 2028 nomination, particularly as the Democrats begin their search for the next leader of the party when President Joe Biden exits on January 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What follows are the early prospects, with some tried and true names and some surprises. Hang on! Its going to get bumpy for the next four years. Pete Buttigieg Pete Buttigieg photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Kent Nishimura/Getty Images Bio: Pete Buttigieg, the outgoing U.S. Secretary of Transportation and former mayor of South Bend, Ind., is known for his intellect, military service, and forward-thinking leadership. A Rhodes Scholar and veteran, he has gained national recognition for his policy acumen and effective communication. Buttigiegs 2020 presidential campaign demonstrated his appeal across diverse demographics, highlighting his pragmatism and focus on unity. Why a Top Contender: Buttigiegs ability to articulate complex policies and his proven appeal to younger and suburban voters make him a strong contender. His extensive federal experience and groundbreaking role as the first out gay Senate-confirmed Cabinet member resonate with voters valuing diversity and inclusivity. Josh Shapiro Josh Shapiro photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Andrew Harnik/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bio: Josh Shapiro, the governor of Pennsylvania, has built a reputation as a pragmatic, problem-solving leader. Before becoming governor, he was the states attorney general, where he took on high-profile cases, including the Catholic Church abuse scandal. Shapiros governance focuses on bipartisanship and delivering results for working families. Why a Top Contender: Shapiros success in flipping key districts in Pennsylvania a critical swing state shows his ability to appeal to moderates and independents. His focus on kitchen-table issues, coupled with his executive and legal experience, positions him as a relatable and electable candidate for the national stage. Jamie Raskin Jamie Raskin photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Kent Nishimura/Getty Images Bio: Jamie Raskin, a U.S. representative from Maryland, is renowned for his constitutional expertise and impassioned advocacy for democracy. A former constitutional law professor, Raskin was lead impeachment manager during Donald Trumps second impeachment trial. He is also celebrated for his eloquence and resilience in facing personal tragedy. He will likely become the ranking member of the powerful House Judiciary Committee, and a leading voice confronting the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why a Top Contender: Raskins moral clarity and dedication to democratic principles have garnered admiration across the political spectrum. His ability to inspire and mobilize progressive voters while remaining firmly rooted in constitutional values makes him a compelling figure for the 2028 Democratic nomination. Gretchen Whitmer Gretchen Whitmer photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images Bio: Gretchen Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, has emerged as a national leader with her pragmatic approach to governance. Known for her resilience and "fix the damn roads" mantra, Whitmer successfully navigated crises like the COVID-19 pandemic while advancing progressive policies in a battleground state. Why a Top Contender: Whitmers record of winning tough elections in Michigan, a pivotal state, demonstrates her appeal to working-class voters, who will be a key constituency in 2028. Her strong executive experience, focus on infrastructure, and ability to connect with voters in the Midwest make her a formidable contender for the Democratic nomination. Wes Moore Wes Moore photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Andrew Harnik/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bio: Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, is a dynamic leader and Rhodes Scholar with a diverse background as a combat veteran, nonprofit executive, and best-selling author. His story of overcoming adversity and his focus on economic opportunity resonate deeply with voters seeking fresh leadership. Why a Top Contender: Moores inspirational life story and his ability to build coalitions across racial and socioeconomic lines make him a rising star. His charisma, innovative policies, and focus on uniting Americans position him as a strong contender for the Democratic ticket in 2028. Tim Walz Tim Walz photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Andrew Harnik/Getty Images Bio: Tim Walz, the former Democratic vice presidential nominee, is the governor of Minnesota, a former teacher, and a National Guard veteran who brings a pragmatic, results-driven approach to leadership. As a governor, he has championed education, health care, and economic reforms, earning a reputation for working across party lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why a Top Contender: Walzs ability to connect with rural and urban voters alike, combined with his experience governing a politically diverse state, makes him an appealing candidate. His Midwestern roots and focus on consensus-building could help unify the party and attract swing voters in 2028. Ruben Gallego Ruben Gallego photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Greg Nash/Pool/Getty Images Bio: Ruben Gallego, the U.S. senator-elect from Arizona, and former U.S. Representative, is a Marine Corps veteran and outspoken advocate for progressive policies. Representing a key swing state, Gallego has focused on immigration reform, veterans affairs, and economic equity, earning respect as a fiery and principled legislator. Why a Top Contender: Gallegos Latino heritage and military background help him connect with diverse voters. His focus on progressive values and appeal in Arizona, a crucial battleground, position him as a fresh and energetic voice for the Democratic Partys future. Jon Ossoff Jon Ossoff photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe Raedle/Getty Images Bio: Jon Ossoff, a U.S. senator from Georgia, gained national attention with his and Raphael Warnock's historic Senate victories in 2021, flipping Georgia blue for the first time in decades. A filmmaker and investigative journalist by trade, Ossoff has brought a data-driven approach to policy and governance. Why a Top Contender: Ossoffs success in a state that had been Republican for years demonstrates his ability to mobilize young and diverse voters. His media savvy, coupled with his focus on infrastructure, healthcare, and voting rights, positions him as a rising leader with nationwide appeal. Mark Cuban Mark Cuban photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Brian Fluharty/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bio: Mark Cuban, a billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, is a household name known for his sharp business acumen and philanthropy. As a media personality and investor, Cuban has focused on innovation and economic opportunity, something that has resonated with Americans. His roots are in the blue-collar districts of southwestern Pennsylvania that the Democratic party needs to reclaim. Why a Top Contender: Cubans outsider status and successful track record in business could appeal to moderates and independents. His ability to self-fund a campaign and communicate effectively make him a wild card candidate with the potential to shake up the Democratic primary field. Gavin Newsom Gavin Newsom photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Sheila Fitzgerald/shutterstock Bio: Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, is a prominent Democratic leader known for his progressive policies on climate change, health care, and economic equality. A former mayor of San Francisco, Newsom has consistently positioned himself as a forward-thinking leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why a Top Contender: Newsoms executive experience governing the nations largest state and his bold policy initiatives make him a strong contender. His national profile and ability to energize the Democratic base could be pivotal in securing the 2028 nomination. Andy Beshear Andy Beshear photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Michael Swensen/Getty Images Bio: Andy Beshear, the governor of Kentucky, has earned a reputation as a pragmatic, compassionate leader. Despite governing a deeply red state, Beshear has focused on expanding health care, improving infrastructure, and uniting communities. Why a Top Contender: Beshears ability to win in a Republican stronghold highlights his bipartisan appeal. His focus on empathy-driven leadership and tangible results could make him a unifying candidate capable of bridging the urban-rural divide in 2028. J.B. Pritzker JB Pritzker photo gallery list Democrats top contenders presidential nomination 2028 Peter Serocki/shutterstock Bio: J.B. Pritzker, the governor of Illinois, is a billionaire businessman and philanthropist who has championed progressive policies during his tenure. Under his leadership, Illinois has made strides in infrastructure, education, and health care reforms. Why a Top Contender: Pritzkers combination of wealth, executive experience, and progressive credentials make him a formidable candidate. His ability to fundraise and mobilize the Democratic base positions him well for a competitive run in 2028. By Rishi Kant and Aditya Soni (Reuters) -Getty Images said on Tuesday it would merge with rival Shutterstock to create a $3.7 billion stock-image powerhouse geared for the artificial intelligence era, in a deal likely to draw antitrust scrutiny. The companies, two of the largest players in the licensed visual content industry, are betting that the combination will help them cut costs and grow their business by unlocking more revenue opportunities at a time when the growing use of generative AI tools such as Midjourney poses a threat to the industry. Shutterstock shareholders can opt to receive either $28.80 per share in cash, or 13.67 shares of Getty, or a combination of 9.17 shares of Getty and $9.50 in cash for each Shutterstock share they own. The offer represents a deal value of more than $1 billion, according to Reuters calculations. Shutterstock's shares jumped 22.7%, while Getty was up 39.7%. Stocks of both companies have declined for at least the past four years, as the rising use of mobile cameras drives down demand for stock photography. Getty CEO Craig Peters will lead the combined company, which will have annual revenues of nearly $2 billion and stands to benefit from Getty's large library of visual content and the strong community on Shutterstocks platform. Peters downplayed the impact of AI on Tuesday and said that he was confident the merger would receive antitrust approval both in the United States and Europe. "We don't control the timing of (the approval), but we have a high confidence. This has been a situation where customers have not had choice. They've always had choice," he said. Some experts say U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's recent appointments to the Department of Justice Antitrust Division signal that there would be little change to the tough scrutiny that has come to define the regulator in recent years. "With Gail Slater at the helm, the antitrust division is going to be a lot more aggressive under this Trump administration than it was under the first one," said John Newman, professor of law at the University of Miami. Regulators will examine how the deal impacts the old-school business model of selling images to legacy media customers, as well as the new business model of offering copyright-compliant generative-AI applications to the public. The deal is expected to generate up to $200 million in cost savings three years after its close. Getty investors will own about 54.7% of the combined company, while Shutterstock stockholders will own the rest. The Richland County Sheriffs Department announced in a press conference that it arrested a 13-year-old and 16-year-old whose names were not released due to their ages along with a 17-year-old, identified by police as Damian Brown, who would be tried in court as an adult in connection with a shooting in South Carolina that left a police K9 dog dead last month Police said their K9, named Bumi, died on Monday, Dec. 23, after being sent out on a mission with his handler, Ware, to track suspects that fled from a stolen vehicle. During the mission, shots rang out and Bumi was struck multiple times and killed" [Weve] just got too many young people that are just running the streets at all time of the night, going into cars, stealing cars, getting into chases just continuously breaking the law. And the question I get asked a lot is: Where are the parents?' Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said Three teenagers and a mother have been charged in connection with a shooting in South Carolina that left a police K9 dog dead last month. The Richland County Sheriffs Department announced in a press conference that it arrested a 13-year-old and 16-year-old whose names were not released due to their ages along with a 17-year-old, identified by police as Damian Brown, who would be tried in court as an adult. The 13-year-olds mother, 34-year-old Shameka Williams was also arrested and charged with accessory after the fact of a felony, according to footage of a press conference obtained by WIS-TV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Weve] just got too many young people that are just running the streets at all time of the night, going into cars, stealing cars, getting into chases just continuously breaking the law. And the question I get asked a lot is: Where are the parents?' Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said. Richland County Sheriff's Department Facebook Damian Brown Damian Brown Related: Minn. Police Dog Dead After Devastating Fire at Partner's House Unfortunately what ... weve seen too much is that we just have someone who just [doesnt] care, he continued. And if theyre not going to hold their kids accountable, the young people accountable, then we will hold these parents accountable. The Richland County Sheriffs Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said their K9, Bumi, died on Monday, Dec. 23, after being sent out on a mission with his handler, Ware, to track suspects that fled from a stolen vehicle. During the mission, shots rang out and Bumi was struck multiple times and killed. 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. In an initial press conference the day of the shooting, Lott revealed that the suspects that shot at police were teenagers and described the shots as very fatal. He said officers took Bumi to the vet to see what we could do, but the canine was eventually pronounced dead and two bullets were recovered from inside his chest. Bumi did have a vest on, a ballistic vest, but it doesnt cover up underneath, Lott said during a Dec. 30 press conference. Theres a certain spot and unfortunately thats where the 13-year-old shot him, was there. Richland County Sheriff's Department Facebook Shameka Williams Shameka Williams Related: A Police Dog Died in a Hot Car, Lieutenant Responsible for Caring for Him Is Charged Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lott said the 13-year-old pleaded guilty in family court to killing a police dog, assault and battery in the first degree in relation to shooting at police and possession of a weapon under the age of 18, among other charges. The 16-year-old pleaded guilty to obstruction. As for Brown, he was denied bond and charged with grand larceny, accessory before the fact, possession of a weapon under the age of 18 and unlawful carry, among other charges, according to police. Following Bumis death, police shared a video of his funeral, which included a police car procession and a special tribute from officers, including the K9s handler, Ware. The canines body could be seen covered with an American flag signifying his death in the line of duty. K-9 Bumi and his handler K-9 Specialist Ware had a bond like no other. We will miss you K-9 Bumi, you will never be forgotten, the department captioned the video. Read the original article on People NEW JERSEY (PIX11) Over $146,000 has been raised for the family of a New Orleans terror attack victim with ties to New Jersey. Billy DiMaio, 25, of Holmdel, was among the 14 people killed in the Jan. 1 terror attack in New Orleans, according to his company. As of Tuesday afternoon, more than 1,000 people had donated over $146,400 to a GoFundMe page for DiMaios family. 3 victims of New Orleans terror attack have ties to tri-state area Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Billy DiMaio was a rare soul, defined by his humility, kindness, humor, and boundless love for those around him. Anyone fortunate enough to meet him instantly felt the warmth of his positive energy and vibrant spirit, loved ones wrote on a memorial page for the 25-year-old. A funeral mass is scheduled for DiMaio on Thursday in New Jersey. DiMaio was born in East Islip and later moved to Holmdel, where he went to high school. Before the attack, he was working as an account executive for Audacy, and his coworkers remember him for his unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, and kindness, according to an Audacy spokesperson. He was a meticulous planner with a big vision for his future, his loved ones said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A natural leader, Billy cared passionately about helping others succeed. Whether captaining his lacrosse team or simply checking in on a friend, he was always there to lift others up. His friends were his chosen family, and he treasured every moment spent with them, especially at the Jersey Shore, where laughter and unforgettable memories were shared, loved ones wrote. Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter 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. SPENCER, Iowa (KCAU) A 15-year-old girl was arrested in Clay County, Iowa after allegedly making threats against Okoboji High School. The Clay County Sheriffs Office said in a release that the FBI reached out to the sheriffs office Monday about some concerning messages that were sent on Snapchat. WATCH: Semi fire reignites on I-80 near Adair The FBI said that Snapchat informed them that a 15-year-old juvenile who lives in Clay County made a threat to Okoboji High School in a Snapchat message to her friends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office investigated the incident and arrested the teen on charges of threat of terrorism, a class D felony. The teen was later released to her parents. Authorities are still investigating the incident. The FBI, Clay County Attorneys Office, and Milford Police Department assisted the Clay County Sheriffs Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A 16-year-old has been charged with making threats of mass violence on school property, after social media threats were allegedly made concerning Lausanne Collegiate School, Memphis Police said Tuesday. The teen has been taken to juvenile detention. Officers responded to the East Memphis private school Monday afternoon, where they were shown screen shots of an alleged hit list naming people at the school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person whose name was on the list forwarded it to the principal, police said. Officers also saw other screen shots in which the suspect allegedly wrote about being a school shooter, police said. Police say the suspect admitted to sending the threats on social media. The suspects father said his sons social media had been hacked, according to police. Lausanne sent out an email to families that was obtained by WREG. The email reads in part, Decisive action was taken to ensure that students remained safe on our campus. Homeland Security also made the scene. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The 119th Congress was officially sworn in Friday, meaning the Republican-controlled U.S. Senate will soon begin the process of confirming President-elect Donald Trumps Cabinet nominees. Article II of the U.S. Constitution enables the president to appoint officials to the Cabinet and other positions with the advice and consent of the Senate. Many of the committees, all of which have a majority of Republicans, will hold hearings on the nominees related to their area of expertise: the Senate Judiciary Committee, for example, holds hearings for the nominees for attorney general and other top posts at the Department of Justice. Those hearings will begin soon, with senators likely prioritizing confirming nominees to national security positions. Republicans will control the Senate 53 to 47 seats once Senator-elect Jim Justice of West Virginia is sworn in later in January and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine appoints a senator to fill Vice President-elect JD Vances seat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some nominees like Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, Trumps nominee for secretary of state, are expected to easily sail through the Senate, while others are likely to garner more opposition and scrutiny. Heres how the process will work: When do hearings start? Sen. Roger Wicker, who leads the Senate Armed Services Committee, is set to hold Pete Hegseths confirmation hearing for secretary of defense starting January 14, even before Trumps inauguration. The hearing for former Rep. Tulsi Gabbards nomination for director of national intelligence in the Senate Intelligence Committee is also set to take place that week, according to Punchbowl News. The Senate Judiciary Committee is expected to prioritize confirming Pam Bondi, Trumps nominee for attorney general, and his nominees for deputy attorneys general before taking up the nomination of Kash Patel to lead the FBI, the outlet reported. Are hearings required for every nominee? Not necessarily. There are over 1,300 political appointee positions that require Senate confirmation, and some nominees, like military promotions, often go straight to the Senate floor. But nominees for the Cabinet and other high-profile political appointments almost always have confirmation hearings. What happens at a confirmation hearing? Before a hearing, senators on relevant committees will request biographical information and a financial disclosure from the nominee. At the hearing, senators will ask questions about a nominees background, their qualifications and their views. Nominees for positions that require a security clearance also traditionally undergo an FBI background check. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard and Patel are expected to draw scrutiny for their records and stances on national security issues. Democrats will likely question Hegseth about a past allegation of sexual assault against him, which he denies, as well as his previous comments opposing women in combat roles. Senators on both sides of the aisle are also likely to question Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trumps nominee for Health and Human Services secretary, on his views on abortion, vaccines and food policy. How does a nominee get confirmed after a hearing? After a committee holds a hearing, its members can report the nomination favorably or unfavorably to the full Senate for a final vote. In 2013, then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid led his fellow Senate Democrats in changing the chambers rules to require only a simple majority to invoke cloture, or end debate, on presidential nominations other than Supreme Court nominees. A simple majority is also needed for final confirmation. In 2017, then-Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans also lowered the threshold for Supreme Court nominees. Historically, its been very rare for the Senate to reject a presidents Cabinet nominee. The last time the Senate voted down a Cabinet nominee was in 1989, when senators rejected Sen. John Tower, then-President George H.W. Bushs nominee for defense secretary, due to concerns about his drinking. Some Cabinet nominees like former Rep. Matt Gaetz, Trumps first pick for attorney general, also bow out of the process before they go up for confirmation. The post The 19th Explains: How Trumps Cabinet nominees will get confirmed appeared first on The 19th. News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter. (FOX40.COM) A Sacramento man who stole nearly $1 million from several different credit cards was recently sentenced to prison. According to court documents, between November 2017 and March 2019, Steven Raymon Waller, 46, used stolen credit card numbers to buy at least $927,000 worth of gift cards from a national retailer. California police warn of AMBER Alert scam circulating through the state Waller was sentenced on Dec. 17, 2024, to 39 months in prison for access device fraud. In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Dale A. Drozd ordered him to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $927,000 in restitution to the retailer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas M. Fogg prosecuted 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 FOX40 News. The U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Agriculture again urged Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee to address $2.1 billion in state underfunding to Tennessee State University over the course of 30 years. The figure, first revealed by the departments in a September 2023 letter to Lee, has driven heated discussions among state and university leaders, along with advocates for the historically Black, public, land-grant institution in Nashville. A new letter, sent Tuesday and obtained by The Tennessean, comes as TSU is under new leadership after a year of upheaval and deep financial struggles. Dwayne Tucker, a longtime business and education leader who previously sat on the TSU board, was named as TSU's interim president in December and said he plans to stabilize the university's finances, while also addressing the historic underfunding. The letter said the unbalanced funding "puts the institution in jeopardy during times of economic uncertainty" and does not match the same level of state funding for the University of Tennessee, the state's other land-grant institution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement $2.1 billion: The Biden administration says Tennessee State University has been underfunded. Here's what that means "As you explore ways to address the funding imbalance, we strongly recommend establishing a state-level bipartisan joint legislative committee to gather data and conduct historical budget analysis of how the state has allocated funds," part of the letter read. A spokesperson for Lee did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday afternoon. Land-grant universities, established under the Morrill Act of 1862, gave federal land to states which they could sell to fund universities with an emphasis in agriculture and mechanical arts. Many of those schools, including UT, did not initially admit Black students. A second Morrill Act in 1890 required states to either end racial discrimination at their land-grant schools or create separate schools for Black students. That's how Tennessee State University was established. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TSU: Tucker promises new financial plan as TN urges him to sell property, cut more staff The grants obligate Tennessee to give a one-to-one match to both UT and TSU. Tennessee was one of 16 land-grant HBCUs across the United States to receive letters from the departments in 2023. TSU topped the list of underfunding totals. Since then, federal officials hosted a webinar for governors, state leaders and lawmakers to discuss how they calculated the underfunding in an effort to address imbalances. A federal dashboard for grant funding was also launched to increase access to key data for states and researchers. In the letter sent Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack said it's up to Lee to do all he can to build a strong workforce. Tennessee's state legislature is due back on Jan. 14 for its regular session. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona listens to the students and local officials about their perspective of the future education system at Tennessee State University in Nashville,, Friday, Feb. 18, 2022. "Strong institutions of higher education support this goal through supporting research that fosters innovation that can lead to new discoveries and technologies that save lives, develop business and sustain regions," the letter stated. "We hope that we can be a thought partner with you as you consider ways to address the unbalanced funding." This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: TSU: Feds press for Tennessee committee on $2.1B underfunding of HBCU Two bodies were discovered in the landing gear of a JetBlue plane on Monday, the airline said. The bodies were found during a routine inspection after the plane landed in Florida. The plane had flown from New York's JFK Airport to Fort Lauderdale. Two people were found dead on Monday night in a JetBlue plane during a routine inspection of the aircraft at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. In a statement provided to media outlets, JetBlue said the bodies were discovered in the aircraft's landing gear compartment. The airline said the aircraft had recently operated Flight 1801 from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to Fort Lauderdale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flight-tracking data from FlightAware shows that the Airbus A320 landed in Florida on Monday at 11:10 p.m. A Broward County Sheriff's Office spokesperson said homicide and crime scene units responded to a call at 11:30 p.m. on Monday night. Paramedics pronounced both individuals deceased at the scene, the sheriff's office said. "The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation," JetBlue said. "This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred." It's not clear if authorities know the identity of the individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Broward County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Carey Codd told BI the Medical Examiner's Office will perform autopsies to determine the cause of death of both individuals. Arlene Satchell, a spokesperson for the Broward County Aviation Department, told BI by email there were "no impacts" to the airport's operations due to the incident. Stowaways sometimes try to hide in an airplane's wheel wells, which house the landing gear. They risk being crushed when the landing gear is contracted. When the plane reaches cruising altitude, stowaways can lose consciousness because of low oxygen levels or face hypothermia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Federal Aviation Administration previously told USA Today that about three-quarters of such attempts were fatal. Monday's incident comes two weeks after a body was discovered in the wheel well of a United Airlines plane on Christmas Eve. The Boeing 787 had flown from Chicago to Hawaii. Read the original article on Business Insider Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 7, 2025) - Hayasa Metals Inc. (TSXV: HAY) (OTCQB: HAYAF) ("Hayasa" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the sale of a 1.25% Net Smelter Return ("NSR") royalty covering all minerals produced from the Urasar gold-copper project in northern Armenia to Franco-Nevada Corporation ("Franco-Nevada") and EMX Royalty Corporation ("EMX"), for US$1,000,000 cash. Commercial Terms Franco-Nevada and EMX will pay the Company a combined US$1 million with Franco-Nevada contributing US$550,000 and EMX contributing US$450,000 in accordance with the terms of a Joint Acquisition Agreement signed between the two companies in August 2023. Each company will retain a 0.625% NSR royalty interest. The royalty acquisition at Urasar represents the first co-investment between Franco-Nevada and EMX pursuant to their Joint Acquisition Agreement. Additionally, each company will be issued 250,000 share purchase warrants, which can be exercised on a one-for-one basis for common shares of Hayasa within 18 months following issuance at an exercise price of CAD 0.22, subject to approval by the exchange. As part of the transaction, Franco and EMX will have a right of first refusal in respect of any future royalty, stream or similar interest on Urasar. Chairman Dennis Moore comments "We are very pleased to make this non-dilutive royalty sale to two of the best-known royalty companies in the mining world. This deal has been attained after months of negotiations between the parties and was finalized at the end of 2024. The funds will enable the Company to enhance its ongoing exploration program at Urasar including an expanded drill program being planned for the 2025 field season, and assist with the acquisition of additional nearby ground." CEO Joel Sutherland added: "The combination of Franco-Nevada and EMX as partners in the Urasar project is a big win for Hayasa. The non-dilutive capital of the royalty sale will materially help Hayasa management in its mission to daylight value for shareholders through 2025 and beyond." Urasar Gold-Copper District The Urasar gold-copper project was acquired by Hayasa in 2023 by direct acquisition of an exploration permit from the Armenian government following an assessment of the Tethyan Metallogenic Belt by Hayasa that was led by Hayasa President and Chairman, Dennis Moore. The Urasar project occurs along a crustal-scale structure representing the closing of the ancient Tethyan sea, which juxtaposes an older package of ophiolitic rocks against Tertiary volcanic and volcaniclastic rocks. Gold and copper mineralization occur along the contact zones throughout the Urasar exploration license and elsewhere in the region. Florida law enforcement officials launched an investigation after two bodies were found late Monday in the landing gear area of a JetBlue aircraft at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Around 11:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, Broward Sheriffs Office Airport District deputies responded to a call regarding two individuals found in the landing gear area of a JetBlue aircraft at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Carey Codd, public information officer for Broward Sheriffs Office, said in a statement obtained by NewsNation. Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue also responded. On scene, paramedics pronounced both individuals deceased, Codd added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Broward County Medical Examiners Office is now working to perform autopsies to determine the causes of death of both individuals. The names of the victims have not been publicly released. The incident comes about two weeks after a body was found in a wheel well of a United Airlines flight to Maui, Hawaii, last month. Airlines have been encouraged to improve their process to ensure passengers without a ticket arent hiding on the plane before takeoff. JetBlue has been under scrutiny in recent months for chronic flight delays and is discontinuing service to several cities following the collapse of its attempted merger with Spirit Airlines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two people were found dead hidden in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue plane following a flight from New York to Florida, airline officials confirmed Tuesday. The Airbus A320 departed from John F. Kennedy Airport on Monday night at 8:20 p.m. and arrived at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport just after 11 p.m., CBS News reported. A maintenance crew discovered their bodies on JetBlue Flight 1801 during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection, airline officials confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tragically, both individuals were deceased, JetBlue said in a statement. At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation. This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, the statement said. A preliminary investigation revealed that the stowaways did not access the aircraft at JFK Airport, a Port Authority of New York and New Jersey source with knowledge of the case said. It was not immediately clear just when the pair climbed into the landing gear bay, which isnt heated or pressurized during flights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours before departing from Kennedy to Florida Monday night, the plane began its day in Kingston, Jamaica, where historically there is a high risk of stowaway activity on U.S.-bound flights. The plane spent Sunday night in Jamaica before leaving there Monday, officials said. It traveled from Jamaica to Kennedy Airport, then to Salt Lake City, Utah, before returning to JFK to prepare for the flight to Fort Lauderdale, officials confirmed. The stowaways are believed to be Jamaican nationals, although their identities havent been officially confirmed, according to the Jamaican Observer. An investigation into the matter is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokeswoman for the Port Authority, which oversees Kennedy Airport, referred emails about the deaths to JetBlue and the National Transportation Safety Board. An NTSB spokesman said the investigation showed that the incident had no involvement of the flight crew or operation of the airplane and therefore is not the jurisdiction of the NTSB. The case is being reviewed by local authorities and the Federal Aviation Administration, the agency said. Stowaways in the past have hidden in airplane compartments to sneak onto flights. Flight crews are supposed to do visible inspections of the wheel wells before every flight, but the two victims could have hidden deep inside the wheel well, out of view, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per the FAA, stowaways who arent crushed by the planes landing equipment often end up losing consciousness due to lack of oxygen or freezing once the plane hits cruising altitude. Even prior to takeoff, temperatures in New York were frigid Monday night, hovering in the low 20s. The plane then cruised at 38,000 feet before landing in Florida, according to Flightradar24. The incident comes just two weeks after a body was discovered inside the wheel well of a United Airlines plane flying out of Chicago for the Kahului Airport on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Christmas Eve. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Two downtown Charleston restaurants that serve French cuisine and Italian fare are some of the most beautiful in the United States, according to a global luxury lifestyle magazine. La Cave and Legami, both on King Street, were listed on The 27 Most Beautiful New Restaurants in 2024 by the Robb Report tagged as good enough to eat and look at. La Cave, or the cellar, is a self-described elevated sipping lounge and salon prive created by Felix Landrum, the owner of Felix Cocktails et Cuisine. Credit: Andrew Cebulka Credit: Andrew Cebulka Credit: Andrew Cebulka Credit: Andrew Cebulka Credit: Andrew Cebulka The space is designed to let guests experience the south of France in the heart of downtown Charleston. Visitors can enjoy French dishes paired with wine and cocktails from the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let La Cave transport you to the south of France. Designer Leslie Landrum and architect Dan Sweeney have created a space reminiscent of a very chic cellar, which is what the sipping lounges name translates to in English. Faux stone walls and archways are complemented by natural wood finishes, herringbone parquet floors, and oversized crystal chandeliers. Plus, theres a gallery wall of family portraits painted by the owners daughter. The Robb Report Design features include exposed stone walls, crystal chandeliers, light blonde wood floors, and indigo-colored leather sofas. Landrum said the designation is an honor and testament to his wife Leslies vision. We wanted to create a space where guests feel transported and inspired, and this recognition validates that, Landrum explained. Were so grateful to our community and guests for their support, and cant wait to continue making memories at La Cave. Noted as a visual delight, two families united to create Legami, which offers a lounge, live music, and private dining. Dine on dishes like Mediterranean lamb and king crab tagliolini, with caviar service paired with specialized cocktails like the Legami Martini, which contains burrata-stuffed olives, in one of six rooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each distinct space in Legami is a visual delight. Designed by owner Tyler Ropolo, the restaurant brings together the best of Italian culture with influences from historic Charleston. In the main dining room, youll find pastel-green banquettes and white Carrara marble tables, while upstairs theres green-velvet seating and custom lighting from Torino. An outdoor patio includes jasmine vines and brick flooring, and an upstairs terrace showcases floral touches as you overlook the street below. The Robb 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 WCBD News 2. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WFLA) Two people were found dead in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue plane at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, JetBlue announced. According to JetBlue, on Monday evening two people were found dead during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection. The flight was traveling from JFK Airport in New York to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5th arrest made in murder of Florida rapper Julio Foolio This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, JetBlue Corporate Communications said. The identities of the two and how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation, JetBlue 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 WFLA. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WFLA) Two people were found dead in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue plane at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the airline announced. The two people were found dead during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection on Monday, according to JetBlue. The flight had traveled from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5th arrest made in murder of Florida rapper Julio Foolio This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, JetBlue Corporate Communications said. The identities of the two and how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation, JetBlue said. A JetBlue airplane is seen at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York in March 2017. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File) Mondays incident comes just two weeks after a similarly tragic discovery at an airport in Hawaii, when a body was found in the landing compartment of a United Airlines flight that had arrived from Chicago on Christmas Eve. The wheel well was only accessible from outside of the aircraft. At this time, it is not clear how or when the person accessed the wheel well, a spokesperson for United Airlines said at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jay VonBrimer, a veteran pilot who spoke with Nexstars KHON after the United incident, said it was highly unlikely that a person would get stuck in the wheel wells of an aircraft unintentionally, suggesting that those who attempt to enter the compartment are potential stowaways. They just didnt understand how non-survivable it would be to try and ride that aircraft up at those altitudes for that period of time, VonBrimer 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 Queen City News. JetBlue officials are investigating after two people were found dead after a flight landed in Florida. The airline said the people were found dead inside a landing gear compartment of one of its aircraft Monday night. The flight landed at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the discovery was made during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection. Read: Body found in United Airlines planes wheel well Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation, a JetBlue spokesperson said. This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred. JetBlue said the flight had departed from New Yorks JFK Airport before landing in Florida. Read: US and Boeing investigators examine the site of a deadly South Korean plane crash Channel 9 is working to gather more information and will provide updates on Eyewitness News. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Two people were found dead inside the landing gear of a JetBlue plane after the aircraft landed in South Florida, authorities said. The bodies were found Monday night during a routine post-flight maintenance inspection at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the airline said. At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation, an airline spokesperson said. A JetBlue Airways plane takes off from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Joe Raedle via Getty Images Local authorities said they were called to the airport around 11:30 p.m. local time and that both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BSOs Homicide and Crime Scene units responded to investigate the circumstances of the incident, and the investigation is ongoing, the Broward Sheriffs Office (BSO) said in a statement. The plane had just completed a flight from New York Citys John F. Kennedy International Airport and landed just after 11 p.m., according to The New York Post. The Broward County Medical Examiners Office is working to confirm the individuals causes of death. A representative there did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment Tuesday. A spokesperson for the airport referred HuffPosts questions to the airline but said there were no impacts to airport operations due to the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Late last month, another body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines plane after the aircraft touched down in Hawaii from Chicago. Authorities did not release any information on how the person ended up there. Stowaways are known to jump into an aircraft during its takeoff by hanging onto the airliners landing gear, according to a 2011 report by the Federal Aviation Administration. These individuals risk falling to their deaths, getting crushed when the landing gear retracts, dying from the engines heat, or dying from hypothermia, which is caused by extreme external temperatures, or hypoxia, which is caused by inadequate oxygen. Related... BERLIN (AP) Two men were killed and a third suffered life-threatening injuries in a shooting Tuesday at the premises of a company in southwestern Germany, police said. The shooting happened after a masked individual entered the premises in Bad Friedrichshall, a town north of Stuttgart, at around 5:45 p.m., police said in a statement. Police are searching for the perpetrator. They said a large deployment, including a helicopter, was under way, but they did not believe there was any danger to the public. There was no immediate information on the identity of the victims or on other details. MIDTOWN, Manhattan (PIX11) Two men are accused of slashing each other during a fight inside Grand Central Terminal early Tuesday, according to the NYPD. It happened on the Nos. 4, 5 and 6 northbound subway platform just before 1 a.m. A 50-year-old man and a 30-year-old man were arguing with each other when the fight got physical, police said. More Crime News A knife was recovered at the scene, according to authorities. Both men were taken into custody, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear if they knew each other. More Manhattan News There have been three stabbings inside Grand Central Terminal since Christmas Eve. A man was stabbed on Saturday evening after asking another man to turn down his music on a Metro-North train and two people were attacked at the Grand Central Terminal subway station on Christmas Eve, according to authorities. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced on Monday that 200 more police officers will be riding the trains with passengers. In addition, the 50 most dangerous subway stations will be staffed with more officers. 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. Two men slashed each other during a bloody clash on a Grand Central Station subway platform early Tuesday, officials said. The 1 a.m. attack came about 12 hours after Mayor Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced that 200 more cops will be assigned to the subway system to curb the perception that crime is running rampant on the rails. Rafael Santiago, 30, and Jason Cheatham, 50, were on the 4/5/6 uptown platform at the Midtown Manhattan transit hub when they started to argue, cops were told. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A moment later, each pulled out blades and lunged, slashing each other in the arms. Responding officers broke up the fight and took both men into custody. Cheatham was treated at the scene, cops said. Santiago was taken to Bellevue Hospital with a deep gash to his left arm. He is expected to recover. Both men were charged with assault and live in the Bronx, police said. The NYPD saw a 5% drop in major crime in the subway system last year compared with 2023. But the city has been rocked by a string of high-profile crimes in the subway recently, most notably the homeless woman fatally burned alive on a Coney Island train last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The additional cops will help combat the perception that commuters arent safe at city subway stops. The officers will be assigned to ride the trains and patrol the platforms the two places where 78% of subway crime occurs, officials said. We still must do more because people dont feel safe in our subways, Tisch said at a press conference at NYPD Headquarters Monday. JPMorgan Chase (JPM) said Tuesday it's leaving the Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), completing a mass exodus of Wall Street banks from a key climate group. The biggest lender in the US said it would "continue to work independently to advance the interests of our firm, our shareholders and our clients and remain focused on pragmatic solutions to help further low-carbon technologies while advancing energy security." JPMorgan's decision comes after similar exits in recent days and weeks by Morgan Stanley (MS), Citigroup (C), Bank of America (BAC), Wells Fargo (WFC), and Goldman Sachs (GS). The NZBA was formed in 2021 as part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero, and a number of banks touted their initial membership in the alliance as financial-sector commitments to net-zero goals became a focus for Wall Street. The JPMorgan corporate headquarters in New York City. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo Reuters / Reuters Now such affiliations are coming under political attack as the GOP prepares to take over all of Washington in 2025 and ramps up a focus on "woke" investing. In December, the House Judiciary Committee, led by Ohio Republican Jim Jordan, criticized financial environmental alliances, saying they have created what it called "a climate cartel." Another climate coalition formed with an aim to limit greenhouse gases globally, Climate Action 100+, has lost JPMorgan Chase (JPM), State Street (STT), and Pimco as members. BlackRock (BLK) transferred its membership from BlackRock Inc. to BlackRock International. Last year Jordan called the Climate Action 100+ withdrawals "big wins for freedom and the American economy, and we hope more financial institutions follow suit in abandoning collusive ESG actions." FILE PHOTO: U.S. Representative Jim Jordan (R-OH) speaks at a House Republicans press conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., June 12, 2024. REUTERS/Craig Hudson/File Photo Reuters / Reuters Banks arent abandoning all climate groups. Citigroup, for example, remains part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero, the wider climate initiative that houses NZBA and also includes coalitions of large asset managers and insurers. Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser and Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan, along with BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, were founding principals. Last week, that alliance shared a statement announcing changes to the organization that loosened the barriers to participation. JPMorgan said Tuesday that its asset management division will remain part of the affiliated Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative (NZAMI) even as the company leaves the climate group for banks. "We will also continue to support the banking and investment needs of our clients who are engaged in energy transition and in decarbonizing different sectors of the economy, the spokesperson added. Police in Florida say two people and a dog were rescued from a buoy after their boat hit a cruise ships wake and sank. The rescue took place on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 4, according to a news release from the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office (HCSO). Crews with the HCSO and Coast Guard soon found the trio clinging to the buoy, which they swam to after their boat hit the wake near Gadsden Point, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage of the rescue, shared by the HCSO, shows the moment the rescuers boats converged on the buoy and crews conversed with the survivors. Related: U.S. Coast Guard Details Multi-Day Rescue of Mom, 7-Year-Old Daughter and Their Pets Stranded Off Hawaii On January 4, 2025, at 6:11 p.m., our Aviation and Marine sections, along with HCSO Fire Rescue and the Coast Guard, located two injured individuals and their dog, who were in a boating accident. Their boat hit a wake from a cruise ship near pic.twitter.com/x0ufMVDzdK HCSO (@HCSOSheriff) January 6, 2025 Tampa Bay Harbor pilots Michael Stutevoss and Dan Hemmer were piloting a Royal Caribbean cruise ship when they heard people had entered the water and contacted the Coast Guard, according to FOX affiliate WTVT. They also contacted fellow pilot Matthew Riley, who helped look for the boaters. Riley said the sun had already set as they started searching. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were basically like shadows in the water," he recalled. "Though I was on scene looking for them, I was afraid of running them over as well." 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 two people pulled from the buoy were subsequently transported to Tampa General Hospital, according to the HCSO. Their injuries have not been disclosed. "Our team's coordinated response with other agencies led to the successful rescue of two people who desperately needed help," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. "We will continue to work together to protect lives on our waterways." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear which cruise ship was involved in creating the wake that apparently caused the smaller boat to crash and sink. Read the original article on People Authorities in Florida are investigating after the bodies of two people were found in the landing gear compartment of a plane at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The dead pair were discovered inside a JetBlue aircraft on Monday, Jan. 6 "during the routine post-flight maintenance inspection," the airline told PEOPLE in a statement. "Tragically, both individuals were deceased," the statement added. "At this time, the identities of the individuals and the circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred." 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 juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty JetBlue airlines arrives from Tampa at JFK International Airport in New York JetBlue airlines arrives from Tampa at JFK International Airport in New York Related: Florida Skydiver Found Dead After Landing in Front Lawn, Police Say The airline told NBC News that the plane had flown to Fort Lauderdale from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Its unknown how the two people accessed the plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the flight-tracking website FlightAware, the aircraft landed in Fort Lauderdale at 11.10 p.m. local time. Broward County Aviation Department spokesperson Arlene Satchell told CNN that operations at the airport had not been affected by the investigation. AP Photo/Rick Maiman Jet Blue airplanes at JFK International Airport in February 2007 Jet Blue airplanes at JFK International Airport in February 2007 Related: Child Found Dead Inside Plane Landing Gear After Flight Arrives in France: Reports This news comes after a body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines flight to Hawaii on Christmas Eve. The plane traveled from Chicago O'Hare on Tuesday, Dec. 24, and landed in Maui at 2.12 p.m. local time. According to a statement from United Airlines obtained by PEOPLE, the body was found in the wheel well of one of the main landing gears of the Boeing 787-10 plane when it arrived at Kahului Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, it is not clear how or when the person accessed the wheel well, the airline stated at the time, adding that they were working with law enforcement to find out more information. Read the original article on People CHICAGO (AP) Two sons of notorious Mexican drug kingpin El Chapo facing sweeping drug-trafficking charges in the U.S. are in plea negotiations with the federal government, attorneys acknowledged Tuesday in a Chicago courtroom. Neither Ovidio Guzman Lopez, 34, nor Joaquin Guzman Lopez, 38, appeared at the brief hearing. Word of a possible deal for Ovidio Guzman Lopez, who has pleaded not guilty, was first disclosed during an October court date. It came months after his brother, Joaquin Guzman Lopez, was arrested in an astonishing capture by U.S. authorities in Texas with Ismael El Mayo Zambada, a longtime leader of Mexicos Sinaloa cartel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys on Tuesday also publicly confirmed plea negotiations recently began for Joaquin Guzman Lopez, who has also pleaded not guilty. We need a bit more time, Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Erskine said in court. We're trying to explore whether there might be a global resolution. He did not elaborate in court and declined to talk to reporters afterward. Zambada had eluded U.S. authorities for years. He was believed to be more involved in daily operations of the cartel than his better-known and flashier boss, Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, who was sentenced to life in prison in the U.S. in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, Guzmans sons have led a faction of the cartel known as the Chapitos, or little Chapos, that has been identified as a main exporter of fentanyl to the U.S. In 2023, federal prosecutors unsealed sprawling indictments against dozens of members of the Sinaloa cartel, including the brothers, in a fentanyl-trafficking investigation. The FBI alleges Zambada and Joaquin Guzman Lopez oversaw the trafficking of tens of thousands of pounds of drugs into the United States, along with related violence. Zambada is due in court in New York next week. The mens dramatic July capture with many details still unknown has sparked theories about how federal authorities pulled it off. It also prompted a surge in violence in Mexicos northern state of Sinaloa as two factions of the Sinaloa cartel clashed. Zambadas attorney claims his client was kidnapped by Joaquin Guzman Lopez and brought to the U.S. aboard a private plane that landed near El Paso. The brothers defense attorney Jeffrey Lichtman has dismissed those claims and previously denied any government cooperation. He did not offer any details during Tuesday's hearing, which he attended via phone. Ovidio Guzman Lopez is due in court Feb. 27. Joaquin Guzman Lopez's next court date is March 19. Two women were critically injured in an East Garfield Park shooting while in a car early Tuesday morning, according to Chicago police. A 22-year-old woman and 23-year-old woman were traveling in a vehicle in the 2800 block of West Fulton Street when an unknown gunman exited a dark-colored vehicle and started shooting at them around 12:42 p.m., police said. The women fled the scene and went to Mount Sinai Hospital, where they were both listed in critical condition with multiple gunshot wounds, police said. No suspects are in custody, and police said detectives are investigating the shooting. CHICAGO Two women, 22 and 23, drove themselves to the hospital after being shot while driving overnight in East Garfield Park on the citys West Side, according to police. The women were both shot multiple times and were in critical condition Tuesday morning, according to police. Their car, with several bullet holes in it, was parked right outside the emergency room entrance to Mount Sinai Hospital early Tuesday morning. Chicago teen faces attempted murder charges for shooting at police officers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody is in custody, and police have not yet released any description of a suspect. The shooting happened around 12:45 a.m. Tuesday in the 2800 block of West Fulton Street, police say. The women were driving when they saw a suspect get out of a dark-colored vehicle and start shooting in their direction. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Area Three detectives are investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. One person remains hospitalized after a nursing home fire Saturday in Mount Carmel Twp. The 8:53 a.m. fire at the Mount Carmel Senior Living Community, 2616 Locust Gap Highway, started in the hallway of the facility, according to state police at Stonington. The cause is undetermined. Residents were evacuated and are now living in another facility, police said. The staff person hospitalized with smoke inhalation is among 30 who were treated for minor injuries and released from local hospitals. In all,12 residents, five first responders and three staff members sought medical treatment in connection with the weekend blaze. Jan. 7STATEHOUSE Applications are live for the Indiana House Page Program during the 2025 legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis, according to State Reps. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) and Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville). Criswell said Hoosier students ages 13 to 18 are invited to spend the day assisting lawmakers and staff, touring the Indiana Statehouse and listening in on the legislative session. "Being a page is not only a way for students to learn up close how government works, but they can also meet their state representative and work in a professional environment," Criswell said. "I hope to see students from our district explore this opportunity and apply." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applications are live and can be found at IndianaHouseRepublicans.com/PageProgram along with available days during the 2025 legislative session, which starts Jan. 8 and must end by April 29. "The House Page Program is a great way for students to learn more about state government and interact with the lawmakers who represent them," Patterson said. "I encourage eligible students to participate and experience Indiana's legislative process." Interested students will have the opportunity to page on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays during the legislative session and will receive an excused absence from school. Large groups can participate on Wednesdays only. To schedule a group, contact the page program director at 317-232-9410 or pageprogram@iga.in.gov. Students are responsible for their own lunch and transportation to and from the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Criswell represents House District 54, which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties. State Rep. Patterson represents House District 55, which includes all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties, and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties. Information provided Information provided Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler will be leaving office in January 2025. (Courtesy of Washington state Office of the Insurance Commissioner) Mike Kreidler, currently Washingtons oldest and longest-serving statewide elected official, exits the public stage next week, ending a political career spanning six decades. Hes retiring after six terms as state insurance commissioner, a tenure in which he oversaw the expansion of consumer protections and fraud investigations and the regulation of insurers coping with increasingly complex challenges such as climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a half-hour podcast aired Monday, Kreidler, 81, touched on dilemmas faced, lessons learned and highlights of the job he first got elected to in 2000. For me, its being able to help people, to be able to have a health insurance system the way its supposed to be, he said on the agency production, OIC Answers. But hes ready to get out and rototill the backyard and get planting. Im gonna use my John Deere tractor, he said, bemoaning the lack of hours hes been able to spend at the wheel. A long career Kreidler, an optometrist who worked for Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound in Olympia, was first elected in 1973 to the North Thurston School District Board of Directors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years later, he won a seat in the state House of Representatives. He served eight years in the House and eight more in the state Senate before winning a U.S. House seat in 1992. One term later he was narrowly ousted. Kreidler, a liberal Democrat, made a successful return in 2000 when he was elected insurance commissioner. He was reelected five times. This is where I had the chance to take on tough issues and make changes around health insurance, he told the podcast hosts. When he arrived, he said that the Office of the Insurance Commissioner had lost its accreditation from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. It took a lot of work by staff to regain accreditation, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On his watch, the federal Affordable Care Act became a reality for thousands of Washington residents. He said, with pride, the percentage of uninsured people went from 15% before the law went into effect to 5% when it was fully implemented. He established himself as an ardent voice for consumers and was willing to stand up to insurers whose filings with the state in the past two decades have gone from 30 pages to nearly 3,000, demanding much more rigorous review. Insurance companies are using newer technology, specifically artificial intelligence, and its important to stay up to date on that technology to make sure its been used in accordance with Washingtons insurance laws, he said. The sophistication of what they put forward makes it much more difficult for insurance regulators to evaluate, he said. That is probably the biggest challenge I see right now. Untold chapters There have been setbacks not discussed in Mondays podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, he fought for years to bar insurers from using credit scores in setting rates for auto and home policies, feeling such practices are discriminatory and results in people with low incomes and people of color paying more for coverage. He eventually succeeded, but only briefly as insurers sued and a court overturned the department policy. In his final term, Kreidler became a pariah among the political class after some of his former colleagues accused him of bullying and mistreatment, and making racist statements. He issued a lengthy response to the media coverage but rebuffed those who wanted him to resign. It pains me deeply to think that the careless words I have used in the past even if infrequent could have hurt someone, he said in an April 2022 statement. I am sorry for any pain I have caused and for taking attention away from the accomplishments and efforts of the people I work with here. Passing the baton Kreidlers departure comes as consumers deal with climbing insurance costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auto insurance rate hikes have slowed since a big surge in 2022 but must still be monitored, he said. While Washington has made great strides on access to affordable health care the cost is still a barrier for a lot of people, he said. And homeowners in areas damaged or threatened by wildfires are seeing premium increases too and, in some cases, coverage is harder to find, he said. One of the biggest challenges is climate change and how it relates to risk. Weve seen an uptick in extreme weather events, he said. If that continues, will certain things that are insurable right now become uninsurable in the future? These all are matters Patty Kuderer must contend with when she takes the reins as insurance commissioner next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kreidlers No. 1 advice to her: listen carefully to what consumers are saying. I am sure she will. Shes already shown remarkable talent in this regard as a senator, he said DES MOINES, Iowa A program designed to alleviate the states teacher shortage is awarding $3.4 million in grants to Iowa school districts. Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the grant funding for the Teacher & Paraeducator Registered Apprenticeship Program on Tuesday, according to Iowa Workforce Development. The program was first announced in 2022 and has supported more than 1,000 apprentices at 124 Iowa school districts. Registered Apprenticeships are a perfect method to train the teachers of tomorrow with extensive, in-the-classroom experience leading to graduates who are better prepared to succeed in their career from day one, Governor Reynolds said. Weve received such a positive response to the first round of awards, I couldnt be more excited to expand the Teacher & Paraeducator program to more school districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polk County Administrator John Norris placed on leave The TPRA allows current high school students to earn a paraeducator certificate and associate degree and for paraeducators to earn their bachelors degree. In this second round of funding, 11 K-12 districts were chosen to receive grants to develop 68 new teacher apprentices and 26 new paraeducator apprentices. The districts receiving TRPA funds are: Brooklyn-Guernsey-Malcom Community School District Davis County Community School District Dubuque Community School District Hamburg Community School District Mason City Community School District Mediapolis Community School District New Hampton Community School District Panorama Community School District South Central Calhoun Community School District Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District Waterloo Community School 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 who13.com. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Crews were battling a 3-alarm fire at a storage facility in the Steele Creek area Monday afternoon. At approximately 3:48 p.m., Charlotte Fire began receiving multiple calls reporting heavy smoke and flames coming from a storage facility in the 9400 block of South Tryon Street near Westinghouse Boulevard. The first engine arrived on scene at 3:40 p.m. and confirmed a working fire with heavy flames blazing through the roof of the storage unit complex. The fire involved multiple storage units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After assessing the rapidly spreading fire, the Incident Commander called for a second alarm at 4 p.m., bringing additional resources to the scene. By 4:20 p.m., a third alarm was called. Around 90 firefighters, including personnel from the Steele Creek Fire Department, worked to control the blaze. The fire was declared under control at 4:41 p.m. Investigators are working to determine the exact number of units affected. There are no injuries to report. and the fire remains under investigation. This is a Developing Story . Check back 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 Queen City News. By Aditya Soni and Deborah Mary Sophia BENGALURU (Reuters) -Microsoft will spend $3 billion to expand its Azure cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) capacity in India, CEO Satya Nadella said on Tuesday, doubling down on a country with tech expertise and low costs to help turn such investments profitable. The two-year investment, its biggest ever in the country, will also be used to upskill Indians in AI, a Microsoft spokesperson said, clarifying this outlay was on top of the company's recently announced plan to invest $80 billion on AI-enabled data centers in fiscal 2025. India is a key growth market for U.S. tech giants, with executives ranging from Nvidia boss Jensen Huang to Advanced Micro Devices CEO Lisa Su visiting the country in recent months, promising big investments. Microsoft, which has more than 20,000 employees across 10 Indian cities, is aiming to both help the local tech community develop and tap into its talent base, Nadella said at a conference in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru. He noted the community's contribution to Microsoft, specifically to their involvement in AI projects on GitHub Copilot, the company's generative AI-based tool for developers. "India is the second-largest (developer community on GitHub) after the United States. In fact, it's projected to be the largest in 2028." "We also have contributions from India AI projects that are just second to the United States." Microsoft, like its tech peers, has come under pressure to show that the billions it has invested in AI technology will start to reap profits. GitHub, though, is one of its few AI bets that has generated returns. In July, Microsoft said the tool had an annual run-rate of $2 billion. Microsoft plans to train 10 million people in AI in India by 2030, Nadella said. The company upskilled 2.4 million people last year. Like other big tech executives, the Indian-born Nadella enjoys strong popularity in a country where engineering degrees are seen as a path to prosperity. Hundreds of people gathered on Tuesday to hear his keynote, which is part of the "Microsoft AI Tour." Among them was Prashant Bhanawat, a software engineer whose company uses Azure AI services, who said he waited for more than three hours to enter the conference venue. "This is a chance for us to see the products in development before they are rolled out, and to obviously see Satya Nadella." (Reporting by Aditya Soni and Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Mrigank Dhaniwala and Savio D'Souza) Three people are believed to have died after nine men became trapped in a coal mine in Indias north-eastern Assam state. Authorities told Reuters on Tuesday, Jan. 7, that rescuers had worked throughout the night to save the miners. Per the BBC, the men became trapped when the mine they were working on became flooded with water. Local authorities added that the three bodies had not yet been recovered, according to Reuters. AFP via Getty Divers entering the coal mine in Assam on January 7, 2025 Divers entering the coal mine in Assam on January 7, 2025 Related: 10 Miners Trapped Inside Flooded Coal Mine in Mexico After Collapse Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nine men reportedly became trapped on Monday, Jan. 6 in the district of Dima Hasao, with divers, engineers and helicopters from the Indian army working together in the rescue operation. "Senior officials of the Indian army will also be reaching the site to coordinate with the civil administration," a military spokesperson told the BBC, They added that the rescue units included "divers, sappers, medical staff and necessary equipment. 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 juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. AFP via Getty Divers entering the flooded coal mine in Assam on January 7, 2025 Divers entering the flooded coal mine in Assam on January 7, 2025 "Navy deep divers have been requisitioned to assist in the rescue operation," Himanta Biswa Sarma, chief minister of Assam, posted on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The water level inside the mine has risen to nearly 100 feet, according to the assessment by the stationed team. The divers are flying in from Visakhapatnam and are expected to arrive soon." "Deep divers from the Army are also at the site and have entered the mine as part of their rescue mission," he added. Indian Army via AP The coal mine were nine workers are trapped in Assam The coal mine were nine workers are trapped in Assam Related: 12 Workers Trapped for a Week in a Chinese Mine Tell Rescuers They're Alive as They Ask for Help Kaushik Rai, a local government minister, said the miners are feared trapped 300 feet below the ground after water gushed in from a nearby unused mine. We are mobilizing resources to rescue them," reported ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The well is about 150 feet deep, of which almost a hundred feet is filled with water," Rai added to Reuters. "Three teams have attempted to enter it since morning and have managed to go as far as 30 to 35 feet." "They (the miners) probably hit some water channel and water came out and flooded it," Mayank Kumar, district police chief in Dima Hasao added to Reuters. In official photos, rescuers were seen equipped with ropes, cranes and other tools while entering the entrance to the mine. PEOPLE has contacted the Dima Hasao Police Administration for comment Read the original article on People FRANKLIN, Ky. (WKRN) A crash involving a snowplow left three people hurt over the weekend in Southern Kentucky. According to the Franklin Police Department, the crash happened on Sunday, Jan. 5 at approximately 8:44 a.m. at the intersection of Nashville and Macedonia Roads. PHOTOS: Ice, sleet, storms, and snow Heres what we saw across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky Officials said a preliminary investigation indicates that a Simpson County International snowplow truck pulled out of Macedonia Road onto Nashville Road into the path of a 2016 Buick SUV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver of the Buick identified as 89-year-old from Portland, Tennessee struck the snowplow. Police said the 89-year-old driver and his 82-year-old passenger, also from Portland, sustained injuries. Both were reportedly taken to the Medical Center of Franklin by Franklin Simpson EMS. However, the 82-year-old woman was later sent to Skyline Medical Center in Nashville for further treatment. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Meanwhile, the 68-year-old driver of the snowplow was also injured in the crash and was taken to the Medical Center of Franklin in a private vehicle. Simpson County officials urged drivers to stay off the roadways over the weekend, warning of icy road conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional information about the crash was 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. A toddler is the latest person to die following the New Years fireworks explosion in Hawaii, bringing the death toll up to four. Cassius Ramos-Benigno, 3, succumbed to his injuries from the explosion on Monday, Jan. 6, according to local ABC affiliate KITV and the Associated Press. He is the fourth person to die after the explosion in the Aliamanu neighborhood of Honolulu on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Dr. Jim Ireland, director of the Honolulu Emergency Service Department, said first responders did everything they could for that boy after the explosion, according to Hawaii Public Radio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But we still have this outcome, Ireland continued, and it just makes it that much more tragic, and it's tough. We do see tragedies, and we do see things that are very, very sad, but not to this scale, and so many people are critically ill. And when you have children involved, it just makes it that much worse." Related: Family Cautions About Fireworks Safety After Tenn. Man Dies in Explosion at Backyard Gathering AP Photo/Marco Garcia Home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people in Honolulu Home where a New Year's Eve fireworks explosion killed and injured people in Honolulu PEOPLE previously confirmed that two sisters, 58-year-old Nelie Ibarra and 23-year-old Jennifer Van, were among those who died. The third victim has been identified by a family member on GoFundMe as auntie Lita. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six people were transported to a burn unit in Arizona on Saturday, Jan. 4, according to the AP. Dr. Kevin Foster, the director of the Arizona Burn Center, said at a news conference that the people being treated were all in their 20s or 30s. 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. At a separate news conference, Ireland said the fatal fireworks incident was one of the worst he ever responded to due to the immense tragedy and amount of patients and severity of the injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi also previously stated, We are angry, frustrated, and deeply saddened at this unnecessary suffering and loss of life. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green previously described the explosive used as a cake bomb a term for a homemade explosive device. At a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 2, Green described the scene as a "war zone," adding, "People had traumatic injuries so badly that brain material was across the sidewalk from the ferocity of the explosion." Read the original article on People Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined Lex Fridman for a three-hour conversation this past weekend, discussing history, a cease-fire, incoming President Trump, Elon Musk and more. Fridman, an American podcaster and computer scientist, was born in Tajikistan and grew up in Moscow. The conversation was conducted in English, Russian and Ukrainian, and Fridman published the original and a dubbed version on Sunday. Zelenskyy says he agrees with Trump on peace through strength Regarding Donald Trump heading back to the White House, Zelenskyy said, I believe we share a position on peace through strength. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you think (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants to end the war? Zelenskyy asked. Thats what you suggested; I think thats naive, Im sorry, with all due respect, its naive to think he wants to finish the war. However, Zelenskyy believes that Trump will bring new possibilities to end the war. I really count on him, and I think our people really count on him, he said. So, he has enough power to pressure Putin, not into wanting to stop it. No, he will not want to. To pressure him to actually stop it. Thats the difference. Having grown up in Russia, Fridman explained what he described as his own naive dream where Trump, Zelenskyy and Putin would sit down together, negotiate a ceasefire deal and find a path to long-term peace. Zelenskyy responded about the ceasefire, mentioning a deal made between Frances Emmanuel Macron, Germanys Angela Merkel, Putin and himself in December 2019 where they agreed on a continuation of gas sales, an exchange of people and a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding the ceasefire, well, they started killing us in about a month, so, I called him, and I told him, We agreed on a ceasefire, didnt we? Well it wasnt a piece of toilet paper, was it? This is serious business, or so it seemed, Zelenskyy said. Merkel, Macron, you and I, we agreed on this together. A cease-fire is important, isnt it? After that I called him a few more times, Zelenskyy continued. I think I only had two or three calls with him in total. I asked him for a ceasefire, he told me, It couldnt be. Referencing a Russian siege in Mariupol affecting 20,000-30,000 people, Zelenskyy said, What if we just arranged a ceasefire without understanding what would happen next? Without understanding what will happen to Ukraines security guarantees. What about the millions of children in the occupied territories? What should I tell them? What am I to tell them? Fridman responded, War is hell. But let me say again, we must find a path to peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is one, Zelenskyy said. He said a partial membership in NATO would give Ukraine a strong security guarantee. He added, With all due respect to the United States and to the administration, I dont want the same situation like we had with Biden. I ask for sanctions now, please, and weapons now. And then we will see. Zelenskyy says, I trust President Trump Zelenskyy explained the importance of Europe having a voice in an agreement between Ukraine and Russia, and he mentioned Trumps influence over European presidents. He said, By the way, I now see that when I talk about something with Donald Trump, whether we meet in person or just have a call, all the European leaders always ask, How was it? This shows the influence of Donald Trump, and this has never happened before with an American president. This also gives you confidence that he can stop this war. Fridman asked Zelenskyy what security guarantees Ukraine would need that would satisfy Zelenskyy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy reflected on the Budapest Memorandum, which required Ukraine to give up nuclear weapons in exchange for protection from the U.S., Great Britain and others. Regarding the security guarantors of the Budapest Memorandum, Zelensky said, None of them gave a d*** about this country, these people, these security guarantees, etc. Another deal would be a Budapest Memorandum. He added, In Feb. 2022, the war began. Letters for consultations have been sent, no one answers. The question is simple about the Budapest Memorandum. Can we trust this? No. However, Zelensky added, I trust President Trump. He told me on the phone that he is waiting for us to meet, and there will be an official visit, and that our visit will be the first or one of the first to him, Zelenskyy said. I know that he has his own matters, American issues, I understand. But regarding international affairs, I think our issue is one of the most pressing issues for President Trump. Therefore, I trust him very much, and I hope we will meet again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He continued, We need his vision, because he can stop Putin, because Putin is afraid of him. Thats a fact. Zelenskyy thanks Elon Musk for help with StarLink, asks him to visit Ukraine Zelenskyy referenced a conversation hed had with Musk at the beginning of the war. I respect him, first and foremost. I respect the self-made man, right? No one and nothing fell into his lap, but the man did something, did it all himself, Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy explained how he felt a connection to Musk as an entrepreneur and businessman. The man is a great leader of innovations in the world, he said. And I believe that such people move the world forward. Therefore, I respect the result of his work, and we see this result. And for me, it has always been important that your result can be used, that these are not words, but facts. He also referenced Musks early involvement in the war with StarLink. We used it after Russian missile attacks on the energy infrastructure, there were problems with the internet, etc., Zelenskyy explained. He also mentioned how multifaceted StarLink was in Ukraine. We used Starlink both at the front and in kindergartens, it was used in schools, we used it in various infrastructure, and it helped us very much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And I would very much like Elon to be on our side, as much as possible to support us. He continued, I would like him to come to Ukraine to talk to people here, to look around, and so on. Zelenskyy and Fridman discuss what peace-negotiations would look like As Fridman and Zelenskyy switched back and forth between Russian and English, Zelenskyy said, This is why its so painful to talk about the Russian language, because look, if a person does not want to listen, they will not listen no matter what language they speak. Fridman responded, I disagree with you here. I think and hope that many people in Russia will hear us today. Zelensky said, They blocked YouTube in their country recently. Are you aware of this? I know, and I simply guarantee that this conversation will travel fast on the Internet, Fridman said. Everyone will hear you; they will hear you. Including the president of Russia will hear you. Officials have revealed that the man responsible for the deadly truck attack on New Years Day in New Orleans visited the city twice before and placed explosive devices on the day of the attack. The suspect has been identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who was killed in a firefight with police officers during the incident. Jabbar was a U.S. born citizen from Texas who served in the U.S. Army from 2007 to 2015 and was in the Army reserve until 2020, per ABC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his military service, he worked as an IT and human resources specialist. After leaving the Army he worked at Deloitte in a staff-level position. An Islamic State flag lies on the ground rolled up behind the pickup truck that Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. | Gerald Herbert Here is a look at four things that have been learned about Jabbar and the attack which killed 14 people: He visited New Orleans beforehand and recorded video on smart glasses Before the attack, Jabbar visited New Orleans twice and during the trips he recorded video of the French Quarter using smart glasses, per The Associated Press. The previous trips were made in October and November, during which Jabbar stayed in a rental home. Jabbar recorded videos on smart glasses from Meta as he rode a bike around the city. The glasses are capable of recording video, taking photos and livestreaming. Jabbar was wearing the glasses during the attack but did not activate them for livestreaming, per the AP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials found the glasses on the mans body, but there is no indication that he recorded the attack at all, per NBC. Mark Zuckerberg holds a pair of Orion AR glasses during the Meta Connect conference, on Sept. 25, 2024, in Menlo Park, Calif. | Godofredo A. Vasquez Suspect declared support for the Islamic state militant group According to the AP, federal officials believe Jabbar was inspired by the Islamic State militant group to commit the attack. Before the attack, Jabbar posted multiple videos online in which he declared his support for ISIS. He also mentioned that he joined ISIS before this summer and there was an ISIS flag found in the back of his truck, per ABC. In a statement on Thursday authorities said they believe Jabbar acted alone. The attack has been referred to as a premeditated act of terrorism, per ABC. Jabbar also placed 2 explosive devices in the city According to the AP, the FBI has released surveillance footage which shows Jabbar placing two improvised explosive devices in the French Quarter shortly before the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the explosive devices, which was placed in a cooler, had been unwittingly moved about a block by someone who had nothing to do with Jabbar or the attack, per ABC. The devices were recovered undetonated by officials, both were equipped with receivers and there was a transmitter found in the back of Jabbars truck. Officials also found bomb-making materials in Jabbars home. It seems that he used a chemical compound commonly available in the U.S. known as RDX, per the AP. The Federal Bureau of Investigation released photos of surveillance footage that shows Shamsud-Din Jabbar an hour before he drove a truck down Bourbon Street, New Orleans, early Jan. 1, 2025. | NYJO331 Jabbar attempted to burn down his rental before the attack Jabbar was staying at a rental home in the area and when he left on the night of the attack he tried to set the house on fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He poured gasoline on a linen closet and in other areas of the house and then set it on fire, apparently hoping to destroy the property and any evidence left inside, per ABC. Before reaching other accelerants in the home, the fire smothered itself and the New Orleans Fire Department arrived in time to prevent extensive damage. Because of the limited damage, investigators were able to find explosive materials and other evidence Jabbar left behind. Mark Zuckerberg said Meta would loosen some policies in an effort to avoid limiting free speech. It'll remove restrictions on topics like gender, meaning users may see more-controversial opinions. The policy shift is expected to change how your Facebook, Instagram, and Threads feeds appear. Don't be surprised if your Instagram or Facebook feed looks different as Mark Zuckerberg's overhaul of Meta's moderation policies rolls out in the coming weeks. In addition to replacing its third-party fact-checking system with community notes similar to Elon Musk's X, Meta is looking to change things up with a return to promoting political content. Other changes include eliminating restrictions on topics like immigration or gender and shifting enforcement policies on lower-severity violations. "We're going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies, and restoring free expression on our platforms," Zuckerberg said in a video announcing the changes. So what will Facebook , Instagram , and Threads look like with the changes? Based on Zuckerberg's comments, this is how your feed could appear different. You'll likely see a wider range of views including controversial ones In the next few weeks, you may notice more-controversial content in your feeds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an announcement about the changes, Meta said that it "removed millions of pieces of content" daily in December and that "one to two out of every 10" of those may not have violated its policies. Meta said that to try to reduce instances of accidentally removing content through its automated moderation tools, it would remove restrictions on frequent topics in political conversations and debates including "immigration, gender identity, and gender." "It's not right that things can be said on TV or the floor of Congress, but not on our platforms," the company said. What does that mean in practice? An update on Tuesday to Meta's "Hateful Conduct" policy offers more detail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We do allow allegations of mental illness or abnormality when based on gender or sexual orientation," it says, "given political and religious discourse about transgenderism and homosexuality and common non-serious usage of words like 'weird.'" Less-severe violations won't be reviewed unless people report those posts Meta said it would loosen its guidelines around enforcement of policy violations and raise the bar for content removal. The company said its automated systems had "resulted in too many mistakes and too much content being censored" and demoted content thought to violate its guidelines. Meta said that moving forward it would focus on addressing "illegal and high-severity violations," including those related to terrorism, child sexual exploitation, and drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It said that for "less severe policy violations" it would rely on users to report the content before it considers taking action. Meta said that it would also eliminate most demotions and that it would require a "much higher degree of confidence" and consensus from multiple reviewers to remove content. You'll see more political content Following what it described as feedback from people who didn't want to see political content in their feeds, Facebook announced changes in 2021 designed to reduce how much of that content users saw, including content about elections or social issues. In Tuesday's announcement, the company described that approach as "pretty blunt" and said it would start recommending political content again on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. It said it would take a "more personalized approach" by ranking and showing content based on users' interactions with other content, such as liking a post. "We are also going to recommend more political content based on these personalized signals and are expanding the options people have to control how much of this content they see," it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, Meta said political content made up about 3% of posts on Facebook. So the change doesn't necessarily mean your feed will be flooded with political news and content but it may be an increase from what you've seen in recent years. You won't see fact-check notes anymore instead, you'll sometimes see community notes Part of the shift focuses on reversing moderation changes that the Meta executive Joel Kaplan said resulted in "harmless content" being removed and people "wrongly locked up in 'Facebook jail.'" Meta said it would end its third-party fact-checking program, implemented in 2016, and launch a community-notes program allowing contributors to add context to content. Meta said it would no longer demote fact-checked content or include full-screen warnings that users have to click through before viewing a post. It said they'd instead see "a much less obtrusive label" indicating they can see additional content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Meta spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for additional comment from Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider Congresss move Monday to certify Donald Trumps presidential victory marked the return of a mundane ceremony that will be remembered mostly for what it was not: the rampage of four years ago, when a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol in a failed effort to overturn Trumps defeat. Those events of Jan. 6, 2021 which was fueled largely by Trumps lies about a stolen election have been a flash point of tensions between Trumps allies and critics in both parties ever since, sparking countless clashes over the nature of the riot, Trumps actions surrounding it and his fitness for returning to power. This time around, the election outcome was not in dispute. Democrats were stung by Trumps victory, but none in the party are contesting it. And yet the violence of four years ago was still a potent feature of Mondays joint session on Capitol Hill, where the complex was encircled by a massive steel security fence, law enforcement officers were out in force and reporters flocked to cover every angle of the process, focusing the nations attention squarely on a humdrum constitutional ritual that was largely ignored outside the Beltway before 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats made a point not to be confrontational or challenge state results, despite having done so in years past. That strategy, which was encouraged by party leaders in the weeks leading up to Monday, was designed to send a simple message: We are not like them. It was a peaceful day because we have no election deniers on our side of the aisle, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a former constitutional law professor who led Trumps second impeachment following the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, said Monday. Constitutional virtue is its own reward, and were standing up for the Constitution today. If observers needed another reminder of the contrasting approaches to election certification in the Trump era, the process was overseen by two figures who played outsize roles in the Trump saga: Vice President Harris, who was defeated by Trump in November and conceded the election, and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), a close Trump ally who had crafted the legal rationale for challenging President Bidens victory four years ago. Then, the certification process stretched into the early hours of Jan. 7, delayed by the riot and Republican challenges to Trumps defeat in two battleground states. On Monday, the entire ritual was over in 30 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Republicans have sought to reframe the history of the Capitol rampage, saying it was merely a protest that got out of hand. And Monday, they celebrated Trump weeks ahead of his swearing in at the Capitol on Jan. 20. Trump allies such as Reps. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) wore MAGA hats around the Capitol. Afterward, Johnson took a victory lap, characterizing Trumps win as the greatest political comeback in American history. His landslide election and corresponding mandate from the American people dictate that Congress waste no time in delivering on the America First agenda, and we are prepared to hit the ground running, Johnson said. Harris, while presiding, was businesslike. She never clapped or changed her facial expression as four lawmakers, known as tellers, read out the election results. Once she gaveled in, she stood up, with her hands clasped and looking forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson, sitting next to her, clapped along when a teller would read that Trump won a certain state, and Vice President-elect JD Vance (R-Ohio), sitting with his Senate colleagues during the certification, also clapped. Democrats would clap when a state was called that Harris won, but that was the extent of noise from that side of the aisle. The whole event had very little fanfare. To end the certification, Harris announced Trump received 312 electors out of the 538, and Republicans, including Johnson next to her, stood up and clapped and cheered. Kamala D. Harris of the state of California has received 226 votes, she then said and stopped while Democrats stood up to clap for her. She smiled softly and then tapped the gavel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In brief remarks afterward, Harris said a certification without fanfare should be the norm. 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 duty to ensure that the people of America, the voters of America, will have their votes counted, Harris said, adding that Americas democracy must be fought for and can be very fragile. Today, Americas democracy stood, she said. Four years ago, as Trump lobbed false allegations of a stolen election, a mob of his supporters stormed into the Capitol to protest the certification of Bidens election. More than 140 law enforcement officers were injured, and three would die in the days and weeks that followed, including two by suicide. One rioter was shot and killed by a Capitol Police officer as she tried to enter the Speakers lobby abutting the House chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that night, a majority of House Republicans 139 lawmakers voted to overturn Trumps defeat in Arizona, Pennsylvania or both. Then-Vice President Mike Pence cemented his role in history that day when he bucked the pressure from Trump to overturn Bidens victory. As a result, rioters storming the Capitol chanted hang Mike Pence, turning on Trumps second-in-command. Pence praised Harris on Monday for presiding over the election that she lost, calling the peaceful transfer of power the hallmark of our democracy and today. Trumps first vice president said on the social platform X that it was particularly admirable that Vice President Harris would preside over the certification of a presidential election that she lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before four years ago, 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 mostly uneventful. Some Democrats highlighted the normalcy of Monday in comparison to 2021, criticizing Republicans and Trump while doing so. Im in the Capitol right now to certify the electoral vote. It is quiet, Sen Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), wrote on X. Do not take that for granted. Do not think our democracy is healthy. No, our democracy is in grave peril because one party still believes in using violence to achieve power. Rep. Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), the Democratic House whip, said her party will vote to certify the results because we are democracy believers, not election deniers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added on X, Because we will always honor the will of the people, not bow to the dictates of one man. Emily Brooks 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. Did you know that 4 out of 10 Chicago teachers missed 10 or more days of school last year? Those numbers include sick days and other personal leave, but they dont include professional development days, parental leave, long-term disability or other family and medical leave. That statistic might be shocking, but its not just Chicago. Other large Illinois districts including Elgin, Rockford and Springfield had similarly large percentages of teachers missing large chunks of the school year. Across the state, 34% of teachers missed 10 or more days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois is one of the few states that track data like this, but theres reason to think teacher attendance is a problem nationwide. According to the School Pulse Panel from the Institute for Education Sciences, 72% of districts reported that teacher absences were higher in 2022 than they were pre-pandemic. The latest results from June 2024 suggest those numbers may have come down a bit, but they are far from returning to normal. Worker absences are up across all industries, so how worried should we be in education specifically? One difference is that teaching is more like a service job in the sense that, when the kids are there, the school needs someone to cover the classroom. In education, an absence means someone has to pick up the slack, so when a teacher is out, it has real, immediate costs. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The most visible are financial. In 2023, public and private schools across the country employed a combined 376,000 short-term substitutes. Schools have responded to pandemic-era staffing shortages by raising the hourly wage for subs paying $21.46 per hour on average in 2023, up 35% from 2018. Given those rates, and depending on how many days and hours each sub worked, schools could have paid nearly $17 billion in substitute teacher costs in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That may actually be an undercount, because in recent years districts have been unable to find subs to plug all their gaps. That leads to a different type of cost, of teachers having to cover for their peers. When educators are assigned extra tasks, like lunch or recess duty, or told to cover in another teachers classroom, that contributes to a bad cycle of increased workload and stress, which can lead to even more teacher absences. Related 6 Hidden & Not-So-Hidden Factors Driving Americas Student Absenteeism Crisis Ultimately, students bear yet another type of cost when their teachers are absent. As might be expected, research has found that one-off substitute teachers are not nearly as effective as regular full-time teachers. Lower-achieving students are both more likely to be assigned to subs and more negatively harmed when their regular teacher is absent. Whats driving the increase in teacher absences? And what can districts do to turn it around? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first thing to note is that its probably not any one thing. Looking at the Illinois district data, I found only very small correlations between teacher attendance and the rate at which they stayed with their district employer, the evaluations they received or the districts overall staffing levels. The teacher absences also dont appear to be driven by the spread of COVID or other illnesses. One might expect those to affect students and teachers in similar ways, but that doesnt appear to be the case. Across Illinois schools, there was very little connection between the rate at which students and teachers were missing school. But the strategies that districts are deploying to address student absences could also be extended to teachers. For example, a 2018 District Administration article suggested building awareness of teacher absenteeism rates, offering prizes or awards for individuals or teams with strong attendance records and building a cadre of reliable on-site subs who can step in. As Tim Daly has suggested on his Substack The Education Daly, teacher absenteeism may be one symptom of a multifaceted problem in which schools have lost their sense of purpose. Student achievement is down, stories of fights and other forms of disruptions are rampant and teachers are being lenient when grading students even when the kids arent attending school or havent mastered the content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, principals and district leaders may have been hesitant to crack down too hard on teacher absences for fear they would lose employees. That may have made sense in 2022, say, when the labor market was particularly tight. But those fears should lessen somewhat as its becoming easier to hire. Another way to interpret the elevated absenteeism rates is that they are simply an indicator of a more stressed, less engaged teacher workforce. In that sense, the numbers could be considered a leading indicator of employee dissatisfaction, and more states and districts should be tracking their stats and exploring ways to reduce absences in their schools. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation on Monday signals the extent of the unpopularity facing the countrys progressive Liberal Party, which has dominated its politics for decades, heading into elections later this year. Trudeaus decision to step down as the partys leader and prime minister sets off a competitive race for the head of the party and to challenge the rising popularity of the opposition Conservatives in elections set to be held by Oct. 20 at the latest. Im a fighter, every bone in my body has always told me to fight, Trudeau said during a press conference announcing his resignation. 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. Why did Trudeau resign? The rising cost of living, increasing anti-immigrant sentiment and concerns over President-elect Trumps economic threats to Canada have all contributed to growing disillusionment with Trudeaus leadership. Having lost key allies in the Liberal Party and facing a likely vote of no confidence by the opposition Conservatives and New Democratic Party, Trudeau called for the Canadian Parliament to be put into prorogue until March 24. Trudeaus decision essentially freezes the Parliament from carrying out any legislative work and gives the Liberals about three months to hold internal elections for the partys next leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau said he intends to remain head of the party until a new leader is chosen. The March 24 deadline is significant, running up against the deadline for the countrys annual budget and the opening of a new session of Parliament. The Trump effect Trump quickly started causing headaches for Trudeau after winning Novembers election. The incoming president weeks later threatened a 25 percent tariff on Canadian exports to the U.S. unless Ottawa took action on illegal immigration and drug trafficking across the border. Trumps threats and Trudeaus efforts to mollify the president-elect taking a trip to president-elects Florida residence at Mar-a-Lago fed into criticisms that the prime minister was weak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For weeks, Trump has trolled Trudeau as Canadas governor and said the country should be Americas 51st state. Trump, in response to Trudeaus resignation, said Canada could avoid tariffs and that taxes would go way down if the country merged with the U.S. Though Trump has suggested many people in Canada would love becoming part of the U.S., a poll from Dec. 10 found that only 13 percent of Canadians felt that way. Who will take over? Christopher Sands, director of the Wilson Centers Canada Institute, said he wouldnt be surprised if Liberals moved quickly to hold elections and put in place a new prime minister. This could demonstrate some stability ahead of Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20 and give extra time for the Liberals to sell their new leaders to Canadians ahead of general elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I suspect that theyll be panicked enough that they dont want nobody in charge when Trump signs all his first-day executive orders and just starts running fast, Sands said. Sands listed a number of contenders for the top post, but he said former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland represents a clear break and change from Trudeaus tenure. The fact that she resigned and triggered the crisis that led to Trudeau going is politically brilliant, he said. It makes a clear break between her and the prime minister so that she can be the candidate of change. In mid-December, Freeland, also a deputy prime minister, resigned in protest to Trudeaus spending plans, accusing him of failing to confront the threats of Trumps tariffs and the impact they might have on the Canadian economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other names Sands floated include Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and a Trudeau ally; Foreign Minister Melanie Joly; and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne. Sands also raised the possibility of Canadian Transport Minister Anita Anand, whom he called a star in the Trudeau government, saying she rose to prominence through her successful turn in acquiring vaccines and personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. A former defense minister, she is credited with completing Canadas purchase of F-35 fighter jets from the U.S. Conservatives on the rise The Conservative Party headed by Pierre Poilievre is well-positioned to take power when elections are held this year. They hold a commanding 24 point polling lead over the Liberals, according to recent data. Poilievre has been described as a Trump-like figure, casting himself as a victim of the elite and the media, with a penchant for insults and provocations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Conservative platform includes eliminating a Liberal tax on carbon a tax that is meant to encourage consumers and businesses to choose more environmentally friendly energy production. Ax the tax, Poilievre said in a video message responding to Trudeaus resignation. Canadas voters are also increasingly frustrated with the Liberals over the cost of living, immigration and crime. Trudeau was great at making sunny announcements, but terrible at delivering results, Sands said. Spending fights ahead The Canadian government is expected to propose its new budget by April, a process that would allow opposition parties to trigger a vote of no confidence, collapse the government and head to elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The high cost of living, Trumps tariff threats and criticism from the U.S. and others that Canada might not meet NATOs 2 percent defense spending guidelines by 2032 are some of the headaches its next leaders will need to contend with. The vast majority of Canadians or 86 percent are concerned about Trumps threats, according to data from the nonprofit Angus Reid Institute in Canada. Half of Canadians say they prefer a hard-line approach, that is, even if the tariffs are ultimately implemented, they do not feel Canada should let itself be bullied. Overall, Canadians are pessimistic about the state of the economy and nervous about the impact Trumps incoming administration might have on it, according to Bloomberg/Nanos Research. Findings for the final week of December showed a decrease in overall positivity from 49.96 in the previous week to 49.08, according to a report from the Canadian industry news site Wealth Professional. A reading below 50 indicates negative sentiment. 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. MILAN (Reuters) -Automakers facing tougher European Union 2025 emissions rules are planning to buy carbon credits from electric vehicle companies including Tesla and Polestar to avoid hefty fines, an EU filing showed on Tuesday. Companies with lower EV sales can "pool" their emissions with segment leaders, purchasing emissions credits from other manufacturers to lower their overall averages. The move could save them hundreds of millions of euros in penalties. Stellantis, Toyota, Ford, Mazda and Subaru are planning to pool carbon emissions with U.S. electric vehicle maker Tesla to comply with the EU's 2025 rules, the EU filing showed. Another pool is forming around Germany's Mercedes, with Polestar, Volvo Cars, and Smart, the same document showed. Automakers such as Tesla and Polestar, whose sales are 100% fully electric, can sell their surplus carbon credits to other manufacturers pooling with them. For Tesla, carbon credit sales accounted for almost 3% of its $72 billion total revenue in the first nine months of last year. A spokesperson for Polestar told Reuters that Polestar, Volvo Cars and Smart will sell their surplus emission credits to Mercedes. Sweden's Volvo Cars, which is majority-owned by China's Geely, declined in a statement to provide financial details of the pooling agreement it was entering. It said it expected to have a 'significant' CO2 surplus this year and was on track to meet the 2025 EU CO2 emission target. "Our global tailpipe emissions per vehicle have reduced by over 40% since 2018," it said. In the January to September period of last year, carbon credit sales made up about 0.3% of Volvo Cars' total revenue. FINES LOOMING According to Renault CEO Luca De Meo, who until December chaired European auto lobby ACEA, 2025 rules could cost European car producers some 15 billion euros ($15.6 billion). The carmakers' plans to pool carbon emissions come as ACEA is calling for relief on the EU 2025 rules. Some European governments, including Italy, have also called for a suspension of 2025 fines. The two pools are open to other carmakers, the document said. Potential newcomers will have to apply by Feb. 5 to the Tesla-led pool and by Feb. 7 to the Mercedes-led one. The deals are based on 2025 sales figures. The filing gave no breakdown on the volume of credits being bought by the companies involved. Mercedes said in a statement it was entering a pool to "close the remaining gap and achieve the European CO2 emission targets for our new car fleet in 2025". The US housing market is showing signs of a slight cooling, but prospective homebuyers in the Northeast and Midwest may be disappointed by the ongoing competition for affordable homes this year. A new report predicts Buffalo, New York, will be the hottest housing market in 2025 as many Americans grapple with low inventory and elevated mortgage rates. Heres what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day. 1. Trumps agenda Congress on Monday officially certified President-elect Donald Trumps victory in the 2024 election, paving the way for his inauguration in 13 days. The ceremonial process marked the first election certification since the attack on January 6, 2021, when protesters transformed the routine task into a violent riot at the US Capitol. Trump, meanwhile, has said he wants to put his entire legislative agenda into a single, massive bill. The sprawling package includes new immigration laws, energy policies and a tax overhaul along with an increase of the national debt limit and spending cuts to federal programs. Republicans are looking to pass the bill using the budget process known on Capitol Hill as reconciliation, which allows bills to be approved by a simple majority, or 51 votes in the Senate. 2. Trudeau resigns 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. Trudeau, the 53-year-old 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. Canadas parliament will be suspended until March 24 to give the party time to choose a new leader. 3. Bird flu The first human death from H5N1 bird flu in the US was reported in Louisiana. The patient, who was over 65 and reportedly had underlying medical conditions, was hospitalized with severe bird flu after exposure to a backyard flock and to wild birds. Louisiana health officials said their investigation found no other human cases linked to this patients infection. A recent CDC study on the first 46 human cases of H5N1 in the US last year found that they were nearly all mild. While most people continue to have a low risk from bird flu, people who keep chickens and other birds in their backyards need to be cautious, as do workers on dairy and poultry farms, health officials said. 4. Deadly earthquake At least 95 people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck a remote region of Tibet today, with tremors felt in neighboring Nepal and parts of northern India. The 7.1-magnitude quake and multiple aftershocks toppled houses in remote Himalayan villages, rocked a nearby Tibetan holy city and rattled visitors to a Mount Everest base camp. Its epicenter, located in Tingri County high on the Tibetan plateau, was close to the border with Nepal, around 50 miles north of the worlds highest mountain. More than 130 people were injured, local authorities said. 5. Medical debt The Biden administration will finalize a rule today that will ban the inclusion of medical debt on credit reports. The rule will also remove an estimated $49 billion in medical bills from the credit reports of about 15 million people, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau said. The rule bans lenders from using medical devices, such as wheelchairs or prosthetic limbs, as collateral for loans and bars them from repossessing the devices if patients are unable to repay the loans. The measure, which was proposed last June, takes effect 60 days after it is published in the Federal Register. Congress now has a limited period of time when it can review and rescind the final rules. BREAKFAST BROWSE McDonalds unveils major menu shakeup It appears McDonalds is moving on to burger and better things The fast chain is rolling out new anticipated menu items today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal battle over San Diego Padres ownership The wife of late San Diego Padres owner Peter Seidler, Sheel Seidler, is suing her in-laws for control of the MLB team. CNN founder Ted Turner recovering from pneumonia Ted Turner, the 86-year-old media mogul and philanthropist who founded CNN, is recovering from pneumonia and is doing well in rehab, a spokesperson said Monday. A media merger Disneys Hulu + Live TV service and Fubo will merge, the companies announced Monday in a surprise deal. Closure of French marine park sparks outcry over future of its two orcas 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. TODAYS NUMBER $700 million Thats how much the invasive plant species water hyacinth costs the global economy annually. The floating weed is blanketing bodies of water, reducing fish populations and leaving people stranded. One company in Kenya is trying to address the problem by turning hyacinth into a plastic that biodegrades over a few months. TODAYS QUOTE New Orleans defines strength and resilience This city and its people get back up. Thats the spirit of America as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Biden, speaking at an interfaith prayer service in New Orleans on Monday as he mourned the lives lost in the New Years Day terror attack. The White House also announced that New Orleans has received SEAR 1 status one of the highest designations for event security by the Department of Homeland Security for Super Bowl LIX and Mardi Gras events from February 21 to March 4. TODAYS WEATHER Check your local forecast here>>> AND FINALLY We have a problem: Waymo passenger captures self-driving car mishap A man ordered a Waymo rideshare to catch a flight out of Arizona but was delayed when the driverless car got stuck on a loop! See the video here. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Throughout human history, cities have been abandoned or reclaimed by nature. Sometimes people rediscover these cities using technology or by a stroke of luck. These five cities, buried under rock, ice, or vegetation, have resurfaced. Humans have been building cities for centuries, but they don't always last. In some cases, nature has reclaimed them. Other times, people simply built on top of older structures. Technology, including lidar and radar, helps uncover some lost or abandoned cities. Warming temperatures and drier conditions have caused other towns to resurface. Here are five hidden cities buried by rock, snow, or vegetation that people have rediscovered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ice-penetrating radar recently captured an image of a frozen town in Greenland. NASA's Chad Greene captured a radar image of Camp Century buried under Greenland's ice. Michala Garrison and Jesse Allen/NASA Earth Observatory ; Chad Greene/NASA/JPL-Caltech In April 2024, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory scientists accidentally caught a glimpse of the Cold War past, buried 100 feet under Greenland's frozen landscape. Over 900 miles north of Nuuk, the country's most populous city, there was once a secret town of Army workers. Now the only way to see the frozen city, known as Camp Century, is through ice-penetrating radar. "It's sort of like an ultrasound for ice sheets, where we're mapping out the bottom of the ice sheet," Chad Greene, the cryospheric scientist who took the picture, told Business Insider. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there are other radar images of Camp Century, this newer device, the UAVSAR (Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar), is more powerful. "That is the highest-resolution image that we've ever gotten to see at this camp," Greene said. Camp Century was a military base that was supposed to operate as a small town while holding Cold War secrets. Camp Century was located under the ice, and accumulating snow has only buried it deeper. Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images Remote and inhospitable, northern Greenland seemed like an ideal place for a Cold War military base. The US Army Corps of Engineers started constructing Camp Century 26 feet below the ice in 1959. They dug tunnels large enough for an electric railroad to connect to a supply base over 150 miles away. The 2-mile-long complex, powered by a nuclear reactor, was large enough for 200 soldiers. So they didn't miss the comforts of home, they would have access to a gym, game rooms, library, and barber shop, Popular Science reported in 1960, while the base was still under construction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Army told journalists that scientists used Camp Century as a base for collecting and researching the world's first ice core samples. While that was true, the frozen city was also part of Project Iceworm. That mission, to launch ballistic missiles from under the ice, was kept under wraps and was eventually scrapped. Army officials thought Camp Century would remain buried forever, but that now seems unlikely. Workers constructing Camp Century in 1959. US Army/Pictorial Parade/Archive Photos/Getty Images The Army's expectation for Camp Century after abandoning it in 1967 was that snowfall would keep it "preserved for eternity," a group of engineers wrote in a 1962 journal article. Over the decades, dozens of feet of ice and snow have further covered the base. The problem is that warming temperatures could reverse that trend. If Camp Century melts, thousands of gallons of radioactive waste could surface as well. A 2016 study predicted the area will start losing ice by 2090. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lidar data helped researchers find thousands of Maya structures in Mexico. Lidar helped reveal hidden structures beneath the trees in Mexico. Luke Auld-Thomas/Tulane University Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luke Auld-Thomas was deep in a Google search when he hit the jackpot for a graduate student in archaeology, at least. It was lidar data for environmental analysis, but he was interested in what was under the trees. To capture that kind of information, a plane flies over an area and the lidar sensor emits millions of pulses of light that are used to measure the distance between the plane and the objects below. Some light slips between the tree canopy to the ground, which can reveal forgotten structures. The dataset covered an area of Campeche in Southeastern Mexico where Lowland Maya civilizations once flourished. However, the area is so dense with trees, it's impossible to see structures from the sky. Archaeologists had never studied this particular spot, so Auld-Thomas wasn't sure what the data would show. It turned out that there were thousands of structures under the leaves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The locals were aware of the ruins nearby, but the scientific community had no idea," Marcello Canuto, a Tulane University professor and Auld-Thomas' advisor, told Business Insider. The researchers were surprised to find one of the most densely populated settlements at the time. Lidar images of Valeriana, a hidden city in Mexico. Luke Auld-Thomas/Tulane University When Auld-Thomas and Marcello started looking at the lidar data, they were surprised to see an entire city, packed with buildings. It may have been home to 30,000 to 50,000 people between 750 and 850 CE. The city covered around 6 square miles. The team found over 6,700 structures, including houses, plazas, temple pyramids, and a ballcourt. Some areas were dense while others were more rural, Canuto said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's also causeways, like roads, terraces, hydraulic canals, reservoirs, things that suggest that the landscape is being modified for a series of reasons," he said, including transportation and growing food. Based on the city's scope, Canuto said it may have served as a regional capital that would have been home to elites or a royal family. The researchers called it Valeriana, after a nearby lagoon. Scientists still haven't visited Valeriana. A Maya pyramid in the Mexican state of Campeche that may be similar in style to the Valeriana site. Andrea Sosa/Picture Alliance via Getty Images Right now, everything the researchers know about Valeriana comes from the lidar data. That information can help see the size and shape of buildings and the size of the city, but they need to visit the site to learn more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What lidar doesn't tell you is what's below the surface," Canuto said. The Maya may have buried some objects or structures, or soil may have covered them. Canuto said many of the stone buildings have likely crumbled over the centuries. They may be decorated or have important architectural features that lidar can't reveal. While Canuto isn't planning to go to Valeriana himself, he hopes researchers from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History will study the site. "That's the point of open data is to say, 'Look, it's open to everybody, so make use of it,'" he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Nevada drought uncovered a ghost town. Lake Mead in 2000 and 2002. Lauren Dauphin/NASA Earth Observatory ; US Geological Survey A decades-long megadrought continues to bake the Southwestern US. In the early 1980s, Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam's reservoir, was nearing its full capacity of 9.3 trillion gallons of water. In 2022, it was at its lowest level since 1937, when it was first filling up, according to NASA's Earth Observatory. Satellite images showed a "bathtub ring" of mineralization where water previously covered the shore. A once-wide section of the lake narrowed and then disappeared in the past 20 years. As the evaporating water revealed the bed below, the remnants of an abandoned town began to emerge. A small town had to make way for the Hoover Dam. Many of St. Thomas' buildings are now gone. National Park Service In 1928, President Calvin Coolidge signed a bill ordering the construction of what would become the Hoover Dam. It was completed in 1936, causing the Colorado River to start rising. As water pooled in valleys, Lake Mead began to form. Unfortunately for the residents of St. Thomas, Nevada, they were right in its path. Mormons settled the town in 1865, though most burned their homes and moved after a dispute over taxes, according to the National Park Service. By the 1880s, newcomers had found the town, which would eventually become home to around 500 people. When the river water started flooding, the town had everything from a school to a post office to an ice cream shop. In 1838, the last resident escaped by boat. "St. Thomas, for a long time, you couldn't get to without scuba diving," Michael Green, a University of Nevada, Las Vegas history professor, told The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2019. The drought changed that. St. Thomas is a symbol of climate change. The remains of St. Thomas with the ruins of the Hannig Ice Cream Parlor in the distance in 2015. Ethan Miller/Getty Images St. Thomas started peeking through the disappearing lake in 2002. Walls, foundations, bits of metal, and broken glass litter the earth now. The town reemerged in 1945 and 1963 but the lake swallowed it up again. It's unclear when that may happen again because climate change is fueling water loss in the Colorado River, a 2023 study found. Lake Mead rose 16 feet in 2024 after coming dangerously close to the "dead pool" level, when the Hoover Dam would no longer be able to release water downstream to Arizona and California, SFGate reported. Archaeologists found a limestone cave leading to an enormous underground city in Turkey. Workers outside the Matiate archaeological site in Midyat in southeastern Turkey. Yasin Akgul/AFP via Getty Images Midyat, in southeastern Turkey, has long held religious significance, as evidenced by its monasteries and churches, some of which were built in the 6th century. In 2020, researchers on an excavation project unexpectedly found an entrance to a sprawling subterranean city, Agence France-Presse reported in 2024. Its construction was even older than the above-ground churches, dating back almost 2,000 years. The city's inhabitants, possibly fearing persecution, fled underground and created an entire world. As many as 60,000 people may have lived in the city. Mervan Yavuz shows figures carved inside the Matiate archaeological site. Yasin Akgul/AFP via Getty Images Tunnels carved into the rock connect dozens of rooms in the underground city, known as Matiate. Researchers found coins, human and animal bones, and areas for storing food and wine, The Wall Street Journal reported in 2022. People occupied the site for hundreds of years and had many reasons for seeking shelter under ground. "To protect themselves from the climate, enemies, predators and diseases, people took refuge in these caves, which they turned into an actual city," Mervan Yavuz, the Midyat conservation director, told AFP. Some may have been looking for a place to safely practice their religions, Yavuz added. "Pagans, Jews, Christians, Muslims, all these believers contributed to the underground city of Matiate." Tourists may start visiting the underground city soon. Workers have found many artifacts in the Matiate archaeological site. Yasin Akgul/AFP via Getty Images Workers have only excavated a tiny fraction of Matiate, which covers an estimated 9 million square feet. "Our aim is to gradually uncover the entire underground city and open it to tourists," excavation leader Gani Tarkan told Daily Sabah last year. Eventually, Matiate could rival the size and popularity of another of Turkey's underground cities, Derinkuyu. Disappearing chickens helped a farmer locate the underground city of Derinkuyu. Derinkuyu, Turkey's underground city, has vents for airflow. LiskaM/Shutterstock In 1963, a man in the Cappadocia region of Turkey kept losing chickens during renovations on his basement, the BBC reported in 2022. They would slip through a gap in the wall and disappear. It turned out the wall concealed a tunnel to a long-forgotten city. Located nearly 280 feet under the ground, the cavernous rooms and tunnels were once home to 20,000 people. The region's stony spires hide 18 levels of living space connected by tunnels. Derinkuyu may have helped thousands of people find refuge over the centuries. Pakhnyushchyy/Getty Images Cappadocia's rock is made from volcanic ash and forms natural spires. Known as tuff, the rock is easy to carve and shape, which may have helped residents build the underground tunnels and dwellings. The city is ancient, with some estimates of its age at around 3,000 years. In 370 BCE, Xenophon of Athens described a site that seemed to match what's now known as Derinkuyu. After its rediscovery, archaeologists and others began excavating Derinkuyu, eventually finding over 600 openings leading to the city. Storage rooms, stables, and schools covered 171 square miles. There was a well for water and ventilation shafts bringing in fresh air. While residents didn't seem to live underground permanently, they could hide from violence or harsh weather for months at a time, the BBC reported. Derinkuyu is now a tourist draw. Tourists explore a passage in the Derinkuyu underground city in Turkey in 2022. Omar Haj Kadour/AFP via Getty Images In the 1920s, Cappadocian Greeks left the city behind after the Greco-Turkish War. They likely knew about the metropolis beneath their feet but took that knowledge to Greece. Following Derinkuyu's rediscovery, it became a huge draw for the region. Visitors can now explore several levels of Derinkuyu to see how people sought refuge for hundreds of years in the claustrophobic caves. Read the original article on Business Insider JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (WFLA) A fifth person has been taken into custody nearly six months after a Jacksonville rapper was gunned down at a hotel in Tampa. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office said 27-year-old Davion Murphy was arrested on the evening of Monday, Jan. 6 in connection with the murder. Body found in mangroves in Tampa, police investigating The JSOs SWAT team, along with its Gang Unit and the U.S. Marshals Service, reportedly found Murphy at an apartment on Labelle Street in Jacksonville. Davion Murphy (Credit: Jacksonville Sheriffs Office) Detectives believe Murphy is one of five people who plotted to murder Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio back in June. Murphy was the only suspect still on the run, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rapper, whose real name was Charles Jones, was shot and killed around 4:40 a.m. in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn at the intersection of Fowler Avenue and McKinley Drive in Tampa. Investigators said Jones may have been trying to get a room at the hotel after he was kicked out of an Airbnb while celebrating his 26th birthday. Jones reportedly posted his location online multiple times before the shooting. The suspects were believed to have followed him from place to place before opening fire on his car at the Holiday Inn, firing more than two dozen shots. Three others were injured in the shooting but survived their injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said the suspects were members of rival Jacksonville gangs. Sean Gathright, 18, Alicia Andrews, 21, Isaiah Chance Jr., 21, and Rashad Murphy, 30, were all arrested in July 2024 in connection with the murder. The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office said deputies have been working the case closely with the Tampa Police Department and have been in contact with them regarding Murphys arrest. Murphy was interviewed by detectives and booked into the Duval County Pre-Trail Detention Facility. This arrest highlights our commitment and perseverance to solving this murder, said JSO Director of Investigations and Homeland Security Mark Romano. While it took some time, JSO and partners worked daily to hold these individuals accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said Monday the case remains ongoing. No further details were 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. FAYETTEVILLE Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) 7hills Homeless Center in Fayetteville opens its warming center due to the cold snap Arkansans are experiencing. Since the snow started falling, more than 100 unhoused residents have been in and out of Potters House in Fayetteville, trying to escape the frigid temperatures. Carol Langston is a long-time 7hills patron. For 20 years, Langston relied on 7hills for everything from a warm cup of coffee in the mornings, to a warm, safe bed to sleep in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a godsend and just really wonderful people who are trying to help. Food is being sent here, water, hot coffee, almost around the clock. And they try to help, they do, said Langston. Snow day calculator helps predict school closures So as patrons come and go in the winter weather, Langston waits indoors with a line full of people who are also waiting. Its hurry up and wait. Theres a long line of people here. Everybody has their own story. Some names, you know, we need a lot of things here, said Langston. Langston says every face at 7hills has a story, and she is thankful that it has been a part of her journey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: First snow of 2025 in Northwest Arkansas Director of Services Joe Coultas also feels gratitude for the organization. 7hills is a special place. Its full of people who love people that we serve, and its truly a great thing and truly a great organization to be a part of, said Coultas. Since the snow started falling, Langston says there were more than 100 unhoused residents that were in and out of the shelter. I know theres more, so pray for those that are still outside, because its pretty darn cold, said Langston. With these cold temperatures, Langston feels that 7hills is a blessing for the community, especially as more weather is headed to Northwest Arkansas this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Be sure to stay up to date with our Weather Authority Team for more information about winter weather in the coming days. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Eight new firefighters joined the force in Wilkes-Barre on Monday. Each firefighter was sworn in individually with their families standing by their sides. One by one they each placed their hand on the bible and swore the oath. Mayor George Brown did the swearing-in while Fire Chief Jay Delaney handed over the pins to their loved ones to place on the newly appointed firefighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scranton Mayor slams circulating rumors on Park Gardens It makes me feel really good for the residents of the City of Wilkes-Barre and our other firefighters that it will, its going to increase the firefighter safety, the safety of our residents, Chief Delaney explained. Ecstatic, this is a big moment for me, so Im very grateful for this opportunity to work here, said Firefighter and EMT with the City of Wilkes-Barre Jamie Burke. Its a calling, the community being able to help, be involved with people, you know the fact that everyone, in general, is just being able to support people help people in a time of need, its just been my calling to do that, said Juan Munoz, a Firefighter and EMT with the City of Wilkes-Barre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four of the new firefighters will go directly to orientation and start within the next four to six weeks while the other four will head to Allentown for fire academy. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAKE COUNTY, Ohio (WJW) A crash involving an ODOT snow plow blocked a portion of I-90 eastbound in Lake County into Monday evening, As of 5:30 p.m., the right lane just beyond Vrooman Road reopened, according to the Ohio Department of Transportations OHGO account. 2 injured, propane leaking onto highway after tanker crash in Ashland County As seen Ohio Department of Transportation video (at the top of the story), vehicles appear to be slow going for hours, after the highway was shut down entirely following the crash at 3:15 p.m. OHGO video Drivers were advised to stay clear of the area. It is not yet know if there are any injuries involved in the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the latest FOX 8 weather report right 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. TYLER, Texas (KETK) Attorney General Ken Paxton and Abraham George, the Chairman of the Texas GOP, were in Tyler on Monday as a part of a statewide accountability tour. The visit comes as the fight over the Texas House Speaker race heats up, urging lawmakers to back the partys chosen candidate. East Texas representative says he will support house speaker candidate despite chairmans threats The tour has targeted Republican lawmakers who have refused to support the House GOPs selected candidate for Speaker, creating a divide within the party. Paxton criticized his own for having rejected Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to go after every one of those guys that tells us they are Republicans, but they dont stand up and vote for a Republican, Paxton said. In a statement, Paxton reminded Texans that the voters voice was clear in the recent election, and they expect a Republican-led House to elect a speaker chosen by a majority of Republican state representatives. He also warned that incumbents who made what he described as ill-fated decisions, such as those who attempted to impeach him, would not be returning for the upcoming legislative session. Paxton warned those who attempted to make deals with Democrats to block the party-elected speaker that they should prepare for primary challengers. Second East Texas representative faces backlash over support for House speaker candidate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among lawmakers facing pressure are three East Texas representatives: Cody Harris, Cole Hefner and Jay Dean, all who were not present on Monday night, have expressed support for Rep. Duston Burrows (R-Lubbock). The three representatives claim Burrows is a far more conservative Republican than Cook and his experience makes him a far better candidate. However, the representatives I want a good, experienced speaker who understands all of the processes, like Rep. Burrows does, so that we can do the peoples work without external influences, Dean said in a previous interview with KETK News. Risking censure and potential challengers, the East Texas representatives remain undefeated. I will not back down. Im not going to give in to threats. I dont respond to threats. Ive got a rock-solid conservative voting record, and my record speaks for itself, Hefner said in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outside the venue, protestors gathered outside of the venue, criticizing Paxton and his pressure campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our duly elected house members know that we stand with them in their decision to vote for whatever house speaker they decide to vote for. I hope that everybody in this community, in the State of Texas knows that the Attorney General cant push these representatives around. He shouldnt be allowed to do that, Smith County Democrat Cody Grace said. We will see them at the courthouse: Jay Dean reacts to Harrison County Republican Party censure threats They are standing with the Republican representatives who are being threatened by the top leaders of the Texas Republican Party. Hes using his political power because hes a juggernaut to push them into doing something they dont want to do and what the people dont want them to do, Grace said. These House members are here to represent the people, they are not there to represent Ken Paxton and his crony capitalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Speaker candidate needs 76 votes to win, and with 88 Republicans in the House, the margin is tight. The vote is scheduled to take place on Jan. 14. If Burrows, as he claims, can garner significant Democratic support, he could win with as few as 14 Republicans. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DENVER (KDVR) The American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado is speaking out about the ongoing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement action in Aurora that led to 16 people detained in December. ICE was involved with the investigation of an armed apartment invasion on Dec. 16 and 17 at The Edge at Lowry apartment complex in Aurora where 19 people were initially detained, but ultimately 16 were arrested. ICE: 22 noncitizens convicted of crimes or facing charges taken into custody in Denver Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aurora police said the incident began when two Venezuelan individuals were accosted by a large group of armed individuals and forced into an apartment unit. There, the group allegedly tied them up, beat them, pistol-whipped them and stabbed the male victim. After the incident, ICE said the 16 people taken into custody were Venezuelan nationals who were not authorized to be in the U.S., and said they are suspected members of TdA. Later, ICE said the 16 people were arrested for being in the country illegally without authorization. The ACLU of Colorados Legal Director Tim Macdonald said the organization is investigating the operation, specifically looking at whether officials violated any state laws. Macdonald said that Aurora police officers detained families, including children as young as 3 and 8 years old, without proper communication about why they were being detained, then turned them over to ICE agents. Macdonald said the ACLU of Colorado is seeking body-worn camera footage from the raid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ACLU of Colorado sent a letter following the raid in December to all Colorado sheriffs and county attorneys reiterating that Colorado law restricts state and local law enforcements involvement in the enforcement of federal civil immigration law, recognizing that such entanglement threatens community trust and safety, and specifically forbids state and local law enforcement officers from arresting or detaining individuals for civil immigration purposes, including at the request of ICE, Macdonald told FOX31. Elizabeth School District sued for removing books from school libraries The Aurora Police Department has said its officers were responding to reports of crimes on the premises. Whether APDs asserted law enforcement objectives were legitimate or pretextual, the officers executed the raid in a manner that appears to have exceeded their authority under Colorado law, Macdonald said in a release on Dec. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the ACLUs letter to sheriffs and county attorneys, Colorado law does not give deputies or police officers the authority to arrest or detain anyone for federal civil immigration purposes. You cannot rely on an ICE form to deprive individuals in Colorado of their liberty, the ACLU of Colorado wrote to sheriffs and county attorneys. Likewise, if someone is eligible for release from your custody, it is illegal to continue to hold that person to facilitate an ICE pick-up. The ACLU of Colorado previously sued the Teller County Sheriffs Office for violations of this matter. The lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice in 2024 after it was decided in the ACLUs favor. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHEYENNE A local man suspected of stealing a Winnebago Winnie Minnie was arrested Sunday night after crashing the RV at Cowboy Dodge, located at 1121 East Lincolnway. The vehicle was reported stolen from the area of the Moose Lodge off South Greeley Highway on Saturday, according to a statement from the Laramie County Sheriffs office. Sunday evening, deputies located the Winnebago on Horse Creek Road. However, when the driver, Ryan Jenkins, noticed officers, he allegedly sped off. A spike strip placed under one of the Winnebagos tires by deputies subsequently deflated one of the Winnebago tires, according to the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies pursued the Winnebago, heading east on Horse Creek Road and over Interstate 25, where troopers with the Wyoming Highway Patrol were able to spike strip multiple other tires on the vehicle. Despite the tire damage, Jenkins continued to drive through several traffic control devices, on only sparking wheels, according to the statement. Jenkins continued to elude officers until he failed to navigate the bend in Lincolnway at Nationway, and went off the road at Cowboy Dodge. Though he had veered off the road, Jenkins attempted to further elude officers on foot, according to the statement. He was taken into custody without further incident after a brief foot chase. Jenkins was transported to the Laramie County jail and booked on charges of felony motor vehicle theft, misdemeanor fleeing/eluding and interference with a peace officer at 6:13 p.m. Sunday. No vehicles at Cowboy Dodge were damaged. LCSO was assisted by the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Cheyenne Police Department and the Laramie County Communications Center in this arrest. Interstellar Technologies, a Japanese space infrastructure company, has announced a partnership with Woven by Toyota, a division of the Toyota Group, to accelerate the mass production of rockets. As the lead investor, Woven by Toyota will contribute approximately Y7bn ($44.3m) by the first close of Series F funding. In the second close of Series F, additional funding is expected, alongside Woven by Toyota's plan to appoint a director to bolster Interstellar's corporate governance. Interstellar stated its intention to apply automotive industry expertise, such as Toyota's production techniques, to transform rocket manufacturing into a high-quality, cost-effective, and scalable process. Since 2020, Interstellar has collaborated with Toyota Motor Corporation through personnel exchanges. This alliance focuses on cost reduction, lead time shortening, and establishing a mass production system for rockets. Interstellar Technologies CEO Takahiro Inagawa said: Woven by Toyota, a leader in driving mobility transformation within the Toyota Group, is the ideal partner to help us evolve our rocket production from one-of-a-kind manufacturing to a scalable supply chain, bringing our vision of a future where everyone can access space to life. The announcement followed Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda's speech at the CES trade show in Las Vegas. During the speech, Toyoda provided update about the company's experimental city project at the base of Mt. Fuji in Japan. Toyoda said: We are exploring rockets toobecause the future of mobility should not be limited to just earthor just one car company for that matter! In addition to launchers, Toyota is developing a lunar rover with Japan's space agency for the NASA-led Artemis programme. The Lunar Cruiser, developed with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, is expected to launch in 2029, expanding exploration for crewed and uncrewed space missions. Woven by Toyota CEO Hajime Kumabe added: This business alliance will leverage the Toyota Groups extensive manufacturing capabilities and combine our expertise to advance rocket production and further drive mobility transformation. "Toyota to invest $44m in Interstellar " was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. Actor John Amos' daughter has hired a lawyer to investigate the circumstances surrounding her fathers death, the latest development in an ongoing verbal dispute with her brother regarding their fathers care in his final months. Amos, 84, best known for his 1970s television roles on Good Times and Roots, died Aug. 21 of congestive heart failure, his publicist, Belinda Foster, said Oct. 1. Shannon Amos, 58, a co-trustee of her fathers estate, five other family members and two people close to John Amos said in a statement that they had not learned of his death until it was reported by the news media that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shannon Amos brother, K.C. Amos, 54, said it had been their fathers wish that his sister and other family members not be immediately notified of his death. There was a discussion of contacting other family members and Pops said not to contact anyone, and I honored his request, K.C. Amos said last month. Shannon Amos said in a recent interview that she has made three formal requests for her fathers medical records from Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he died, but that she has not received a response. Hospital officials said they could not comment because of patient privacy laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James H. Davis III, the lawyer Shannon Amos retained to investigate her fathers death, said in an undated news release received by NBC News on Dec. 24 that the family deserves to know the full circumstances surrounding Mr. Amos care and the events that led to his passing. We are committed to pursuing all available avenues to ensure that these questions are answered, Davis said in the statement. Davis hiring is the latest development in an ongoing dispute between John Amos two children. Shannon Amos said that while K.C. Amos and Foster are in frequent contact with each other, neither speak with her because of the rift. According to Shannon Amos, the split between her and her brother began with differences over their mothers care and the handling of her estate. Their mother, Noel Mickelson, died in 2016 from sepsis caused by bed sores, and a malignant tumor, according to Shannon Amos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the siblings had reconciled after their mothers death, Shannon Amos said, K.C. Amos' struggles with addiction and financial mismanagement led to a mutual parting in August 2020, after which he moved in with their father. It became increasingly difficult for family, friends, business associates and caregivers to contact my father, Shannon Amos said. K.C. Amos disputes that he struggled with addiction or managing finances, calling the claims "baseless." I am committed to leading a balanced and healthy life, particularly to honor the memory of my mother and father with strength and dignity, he said. John Amos in "Roots." Shannon Amos said in an Instagram post on June 8, 2023, that her father was a victim of elder abuse and that she had opened a GoFundMe account to cover care, legal fees, and aftercare for the actor, whose life was hanging by a thread. The GoFundMe was later removed by the platform with no explanation, she said. Upon being informed that Mr. Amos wished to decline the funds raised on his behalf, the GoFundMe was put under review by our Trust & Safety team, a GoFundMe spokesperson said last week. The fundraiser was subsequently removed from the platform and all donors refunded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the Custer County Sheriffs Office in Colorado opened an investigation on June 9, 2023, into allegations that John Amos was being subjected to elder abuse, according to a news release from the sheriffs office. John Amos had been living in Westcliffe, Colorado, at the time. We did conduct a criminal investigation. We did collect and analyze some evidence, Custer County Sheriff Lloyd Smith said. In the end, the district attorney did not believe there was enough evidence to file charges. In a video K.C. Amos posted on Instagram on June 15, 2023, John Amos said that he had ongoing issues with his daughter and that he believed she was taking advantage of him. Shes the one that I would attribute my elderly abuse to, he said. Its definitely a case of elderly abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He offered no details in the video of the purported abuse. Kevin Faler, a private investigator hired by John Amos, characterized it in a Dec. 24 interview with NBC News as financial elder abuse, but he provided no further details. Shannon Amos said that when Goudy asked John Amos about the allegation against Shannon Amos, he said, I have no recollection of that. Shannon Amos said her father was in a vulnerable state because the video was recorded while he was in the hospital with congestive heart failure and was on pain medication and suffering from dementia, which she said made him susceptible to K.C.s manipulation. Shannon Amos was not able to provide documentation of a diagnosis of dementia. Foster disputed that John Amos had been diagnosed with dementia. John Amos had his right mind, Foster said last month, adding that her client spent his final months working on projects and writing scripts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement K.C. Amos was arrested on July 15, 2023, in West Orange, New Jersey, after Shannon Amos filed a complaint with the West Orange Police Department, saying he had threatened her life. The criminal complaint states that Shannon was in imminent fear of death and believed the immediacy of the threat and the likelihood it could be carried out, specifically by sending text messages with photos of firearms. Shannon Amos said last week that the threats were part of a pattern of escalating harassment and intimidation intended to separate her from her father. Faler said there was no merit to the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our legal defense team consisting of K.C.'s attorney and John Amos psychologist, investigators, publicist and others are and will continue to work closely with law enforcement and state prosecutors in relation to our own investigation, he said. No charges were filed, and the case was closed Dec. 17, according to Marta Estrella, a spokesperson for the New Jersey judiciary. The Los Angeles Police Department also launched an elder abuse investigation in February 2024 after Shannon Amos filed a complaint. The LAPD does not appear to have found any wrongdoing in the case, a department spokesperson said last week. While Shannon Amos and other family members said the actor was isolated from them by K.C. Amos and Foster in his final months, Foster denied it. She said Shannon Amos and other family members had not attempted to contact John Amos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These people had not been in touch with John Amos in over a year because he didnt want to talk to them, Foster said. K.C. Amos disputes that he engaged in elder abuse. Let me be clear and transparent. There has been no physical, financial, emotional, psychological elder abuse or neglect committed against my father by me, he said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Hastings resident Murilo Romao, who was diagnosed with leukemia in October, recently reached his fundraising goal of $50,000 with the help of a famous actor. Minnesota residents of eight years, Romao and his wife Alana are self-employed and do not have health insurance, so they turned to their community for help, launching a GoFundMe that met its goal last week thanks to a $24,182 donation from actor Kristen Bell. Described as caring, funny and hard-working, 36-year-old Romao is always ready to help others when needed. The couple, who immigrated from Brazil, are out of work and focusing all their energy into beating this disease, according to the fundraising page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As you know, we do not have health insurance, Alana Dos Santos Zaia Romao wrote in a Dec. 27 update. The bills have started to arrive and we have already reached 500k in hospital debt. Bell, known for her roles in The Good Place and Veronica Mars, is collaborating with internet star Tommy Marcus, known on Instagram as Quentin Quarantino, to promote health-related GoFundMe pages, according to a spokesperson for the fundraising site. To donate, visit gofund.me/37c891a7. Related Articles Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) shared some unvarnished thoughts Monday on the people President-elect Donald Trump has announced he plans to nominate to key positions in his upcoming administration and said one of them in particular is most concerning for U.S. democracy. Trumps picks include MAGA loyalist Kash Patel to run the FBI, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his secretary of defense and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii) a former Democrat who joined the Republican Party in 2024 as leader of national intelligence. When asked on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert whom he has the strongest opinion on, Kinzinger stated bluntly: I mean, for the country, Kash Patel, because I think once you weaponize Justice or the FBI, thats a huge problem. Theres really no oversight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patel served in the first Trump administration and, in his 2023 book Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy, ominously ranked Trumps deep state enemies and vowed at the time to come after them. Kinzinger told Colbert that Hegseth is the second-most-troubling pick, as the Defense Department is the largest corporation in the world. Hegseth, a military veteran turned television pundit, defended the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol on Fox News at the time. Theres people that put their lives on the line, Kinzinger said Monday about the Defense Department, and Pete served honorably in the military, but by the way, anywhere in D.C. theres probably 50,000 people as or better qualified than Pete Hegseth to run the DOD. Kinzinger, a frequent Trump critic and one of only 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach him over his role in the U.S. Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021, shared similar thoughts on Gabbard who previously criticized Trump as corrupt but has since joined the fold. Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger named (from left) Kash Patel, Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard as his biggest concerns among President-elect Donald Trump's administration picks. Left: Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc/Getty Images; Center: J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press; Right: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images I knew her, Kinzinger told Colbert. And I was friends with her up until the day she visited [Syrian President] Bashar al-Assad who, thank God, is out of power now, and did his dirty work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forces for the recently deposed president were accused of using sarin gas to kill 1,400 people in 2013. Gabbard who shared Russian talking points in support of Assad, Kinzinger noted previously urged Congress not to endorse potential U.S. regime change operations in the country, alleging the U.S. was covertly supporting as much. Kinzinger had only one word to share about former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), whom Trump had announced as his attorney general pick despite a federal investigation and a congressional ethics probe into allegations he had sexual relations with a minor. Gaetz immediately resigned from his congressional seat in anticipation of the role but later withdrew himself from consideration for the position when it appeared he would not have the support needed for confirmation. When Colbert noted there was applause in the House chamber Friday as the acting House clerk announced Gaetz wouldnt be taking his seat in the new Congress, Kinzinger said simply: Fantastic. Related... Top Adams administration official Jesse Hamilton pressured the city governments main real estate broker to put one of his friends in charge of the firms business dealings with the city, and the pal in turn used that role to sideline a competitor and maximize her own commissions, according to a bombshell lawsuit filed late Monday. The suit was brought by the competitor, JRT Realty, which alleges Cushman & Wakefield executive Diana Boutross was picked at Hamiltons behest in late 2023 to take over running Cushman & Wakefields brokering of commercial leases between the city government and private property owners. The Manhattan Supreme Court action comes after investigators in September seized phones and other electronic devices from Hamilton, Boutross and Ingrid Lewis-Martin, then Adams chief adviser at City Hall, after they landed at JFK returning from a trip to Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The seizures were part of a probe led by the Manhattan district attorneys office scrutinizing possible corruption in the citys commercial property leasing sector, according to sources. No charges have been filed, but Lewis-Martin was indicted by the Manhattan DA last month on bribery charges unrelated to the commercial property dealings; she has pleaded not guilty. Both Cushman & Wakefield and JRT are on a contract with Hamiltons agency, the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, under which both firms are supposed to share in the commissions that can come from locking in leases between the city and private property owners. JRT, a woman-owned business, claims in its suit that Boutross, upon being tapped to take over Cushman & Wakefields account with the city, sought to destroy the reputation of JRT and collect that firms commissions. The suit only names Cushman & Wakefield as a defendant, accusing it of defamation and tortious interference in business relations. Cushman & Wakefield rep Mike Boonshoft said Tuesday that any change in our work with the city would only have come from its amended rules around contracting with minority- and/or woman-owned businesses, or so called MWBEs, as well as other legitimate commercial reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that we have a copy of the complaint, we will review and respond accordingly, he added. Neither DCAS nor Hamilton returned requests for comment. Adams, who has pleaded not guilty to federal corruption charges as part of an unrelated case related to Turkeys government, did not offer comment via a spokeswoman. According to JRTs suit, Hamilton, whose DCAS post comes with overseeing the city governments commercial leasing program, told Cushman & Wakefield in late December 2023 it would lose its commission deals with his agency unless Boutross, a personal friend to him and Lewis-Martin, was put in charge of the DCAS account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamilton, a key political ally to the mayor who has known him for decades, allegedly issued that directive after Cushman & Wakefields previous manager on the account, Robert Giglio, announced his retirement. Boutross was subsequently installed in the role, and once in it, she and Cushman & Wakefield engaged in a premeditated campaign to block JRT from the DCAS account and destroy JRTs reputation with DCAS, other city agencies, brokers, and landlords, according to the suit. That included Boutross writing an April 2024 email to DCAS officials in which she falsely stated JRT would no longer be involved in brokering leases due to performance issues, according to a copy of the email included with the lawsuit. The lawsuit also points to a DCAS bidding process that remains ongoing for the renewal of the commission-based contract that JRT is part of along with Cushman & Wakefield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new contract released by DCAS for bids in March 2024 eliminated a previous provision requiring that a certain number of deals be brokered by women-owned enterprises, an abrupt change that could effectively eliminate JRT from doing business with the agency, according to the suit. Ultimately, JRT charges that Cushman & Wakefield and Boutross undertook the alleged smear campaign to try to gobble up for themselves the 33.75% commissions that JRT gets on property deals, including for the Bronx Logistics Center, a warehouse in Hunts Point that the city government was in talks to buy for $750 million. Although JRT was supposed to be roped into the Logistics Center deal, Boutross allegedly sought to cut out the firm around March 2024 by not looping them in on key communications, the lawsuit says. Around this time, Hamilton repeatedly walked through DCASs offices and told employees there, Remember that the Bronx Logistics Deal is only a C&W deal! according to the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the suit notes Hamilton appeared in a promo video for the Logistics Center, which the Daily News first reported last year was produced by one of his DCAS aides and disseminated to city agencies. In the video, which DCAS has said was unauthorized, Hamilton urged city agencies to formulate plans for leasing space at the center, which the city government ultimately never entered into a deal to buy after the unusual video emerged last year. If the Bronx Logistics Deal had closed, Boutross would have earned millions of dollars in commissions under the DCAS Contract, JRTs complaint reads. The suit comes after Brooklyn Councilman Lincoln Restler questioned DCAS Commissioner Louis Molina in October about why JRT had gotten slashed out of brokering deals after Boutross landed the account. Molina replied at the time he had been informed by my team that that was not the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to Mondays lawsuit, Restler told The News that DCAS needs to be overhauled. This lawsuit further underscores the corruption involving the Adams administration and Diana Boutross and the need for a comprehensive investigation into the citys shady real estate division, Restler said. NEW OXFORD, Pa. (WHTM) A local bar & grill in Adams County recently had its liquor license suspended due to COVID-19-related, and other citations dating back to 2020 and 2021. Back on January 2, 2025, the Bourbon Mill, located at 4797 York Road in New Oxford, Pa., shared on Facebook that their liquor license would be suspended for 45 days, restricting their ability to sell alcoholic beverages for a period of time. We sadly learned at the beginning of this week that the PA Liquor Control Board will be suspending our liquor license for 45 days, starting Monday, January 6th until Thursday, February 20th. The reason for this suspension is due to Covid mask violations from 2020 & 2021, Bourbon Mill said in a Facebook post that has since been deleted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court records, Bourbon Mill was cited multiple times for violating orders and mandates by then-Governor Tom Wolf and/or the Secretary of Health during the COVID-19 disaster emergency. Violations cited include violating mask mandates, serving patrons indoors, and not adhering to social distancing guidelines. Messersmith-Properties-LLC-20-0822-20-1246-21-0450-21-0925-BOARD-OPINION-and-Notice-of-Right-to-AppealDownload Although COVID-related citations did play a part in the establishments liquor license suspension, it is not the only reason it occurred. According to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Boards (PLCB) Press Secretary Shawn Kelly, the Bourbon Mill was also cited for selling alcohol after revocation of a health permit, selling liquor to-go, and failing to have an approved manager for the licensed premises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It should be noted that this suspension is a result of citations issued by the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement (BLCE), which is responsible for enforcing liquor laws across the Keystone State. The BLCE is separate from the PLCB. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat Family restaurant in Adams County announces closure The decision to suspend Bourbon Mills license came after an administrative law judge (ALJ) reviewed the BLCEs citations. The ALJ then ordered the establishment to pay a $5,700 fine and serve a 45-day suspension. Bourbon Mill did appeal this decision, but the penalties were upheld by the PLCBs three-member Board, which could have hypothetically overturned the ALJs decision under limited circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ALJ officially notified Bourbon Mill of their suspension dates on December 6, 2024. According to the PLCBs Shawn Kelly, suspensions can be delayed by the ALJs review, appeals, and other factors. In this case, Bourbon Mill did appeal the initial decision which could have caused their punishment to be delayed. Luxury hotel in Gettysburg closes long-time restaurant The PLCB understands the COVID pandemic was an unprecedented time for businesses that faced challenges to stay afloat, PLCB said in an email to ABC27 News. Most of the 16,000 retail liquor licensees in Pennsylvania abided by the emergency orders, risking their businesses, in order to comply with the rules to protect public health and safety. Relatively few chose to ignore the rules for their own benefit, and the penalties imposed through the citation process are the consequences of their actions. Additionally, BLCE began COVID enforcement with warnings to establishments before issuing citations, thereby giving businesses fair and reasonable opportunity to come into compliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moving forward, Bourbon Mill says that during their suspension, they will be performing building maintenance work, while also working on presenting a new menu for its customers to enjoy upon reopening. We again apologize for this unfortunate announcement, Bourbon Mill added. We have a wonderful customer base and will miss many of you the next few weeks. ABC27 News did reach out to the Bourbon Mill for more information last week, but did not hear back at the time of this publication. abc27 news will keep you updated 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. A Hendersonville police sergeant has been decommissioned and temporarily suspended from duty pending an internal investigation after he was stopped by a Sumner County deputy Monday and charged with driving under the influence and assault on an officer, authorities confirmed Tuesday. According to an arrest affidavit, Steven Wilson was driving 104 miles per hour in a 65-mile-per hour zone on Highway 86, and he continued on toward Exit 6 after a deputy activated his overhead lights and siren in an attempt to stop him. Wilson was seen with "bloodshot-watery eyes" and the odor of intoxicating beverage was coming from his vehicle once he did pull over, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he was asked to get out of his car, Wilson asked Deputy Oscar Vazquez to turn off his body camera, the affidavit notes. It also said that when Vazquez refused, Wilson grabbed at the deputy's body camera repeatedly and eventually grabbed at Vazquez's left wrist. Body camera footage also shows Wilson grab his car keys off the hood of Vazquez's cruiser and begin walking back to his car before Vazquez grabbed Wilson, the affidavit said. A struggle ensued, and Vazquez is heard asking responding officers to "step it up" in coming to the scene, the affidavit notes of the footage. At least four responding deputies and a Hendersonville police officer arrived and struggled to gain control of Wilson, who was warned he would be Tased, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four deputies were ultimately able to take Wilson to the ground and handcuff him, the affidavit said. Vazquez suffered a cut near the pinky finger of his left hand while trying to handcuff Wilson, but he did not seek medical attention for the wound, according to documentation from authorities. Wilson did not consent to a blood test, but the Sumner County Sheriff's Office obtained a warrant for one and conducted a blood draw shortly before 4 a.m. on Monday. A search of Wilson's car revealed two small Jack Daniels bottles and two unopened White Claw beverages, authorities noted. "Based on the speeds he was traveling, his intoxication, and his action during the traffic stop, I believe that Mr. Wilson was a danger to himself and the public," the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reach reporter Craig Shoup by email at cshoup@gannett.com and on X @Craig_Shoup. To support his work, sign up for a digital subscription to www.tennessean.com. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee cop suspended, charged with DUI, assault on deputy HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) With Kentucky currently under a State of Emergency, Attorney General Russell Coleman announced the activation of the price gouging hotline. AG Coleman encourages any Kentuckian who suspects price gouging to report it here or by calling 1-888-432-9257. A team of attorneys, investigators and staff with the Attorney Generals Office of Consumer Protection will review the complaints to determine if price gouging has occurred. Kentucky law defines price gouging as a grossly excessive charge, which is more than 10% above the price prior to the emergency declaration, that is not related to higher costs to the seller. Gov. Beshear updates on states response to Winter Storm Blair Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say goods and services covered by Kentuckys price gouging law include food, gasoline, shelter, transportation, emergency cleanup and repair or reconstruction services like tree removal. When disaster strikes and Kentuckians are concerned for their families safety, no one should have to worry if they are being taken advantage of. Our Office is determined to protect hardworking Kentuckians and send a message to predatory businesses, said AG Coleman. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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). Jan. 6New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez filed an emergency temporary restraining order on Monday to halt embattled Western New Mexico University President Joe Shepard from earning $1.9 million when he steps down on Jan. 15 under a cloud of ethics investigations. Torrez filed the restraining order to "prevent a gross misuse of funds appropriated to support the education of Western's student population," he said in a news release. Torrez sought the order to prevent the university's five-member board from disbursing the severance payment before a hearing in 6th Judicial District Court and completion of a WNMU audit into university spending that began in 2023. Torrez asked for the hearing to be held prior to Shepard's departure or for an order to prevent the payment from going through until a hearing can be scheduled after Jan. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board acted "contrary to its fiduciary duty to the university," Torrez said, by pledging public funds to what he called an unsupported severance payment and allegedly not giving the state time to consider the agreement. The severance agreement is "unconscionable as a violation of public policy and the public interest," Torrez said. WNMU spokesman Mario Sanchez said he received the state attorney general's news release, but he did not immediately provide a statement on behalf of the university. Shepard has served in the top job since 2011 and is in his final days as president. Shepard faces accusations he, his wife ex-CIA Agent Valerie Plame and members of the board racked up more than $360,000 in wasteful spending on lavish university foreign business trips and high-priced furniture for the president's residence from 2018-23, as concluded by State Auditor Joe Maestas. The AG's filing is the latest issue to prompt public scrutiny of the board following Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's call last week for all of its members to resign immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only board chair Mary Hotvedt and member Lyndon Haviland have resigned, according to letters received by the Governor's Office. Board members Daniel H. Lopez, a former Cabinet secretary, private attorney Dal Moellenberg, and former student Trent Jones remain. The remaining members will meet virtually at 10 a.m. Tuesday for a previously scheduled meeting to discuss the presidential search and the president's contract, a university spokesman said. The agenda for that meeting was listed on the university's website on Monday afternoon. Aside from WNMU, the state Ethics Commission and New Mexico Higher Education Department are also conducting audits into the university's spending. Both are expected to be complete early this year. LANSING Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel said Monday that President-elect Donald Trump won the Nov. 5 election "fair and square" and is free to implement his policies, but she is concerned about his cabinet choices and the influence on his administration of billionaire businessman Elon Musk. "I don't know anyone that voted for Elon Musk," Nessel told reporters at her Lansing government office building after reviewing her office's activities in 2024 and plans for 2025. "I'm concerned about the influence of the world's richest man on American government that is of grave concern to me." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, who is to be sworn in as president on Jan. 20, has promised mass deportations of undocumented immigrants and has nominated to the U.S. Justice Department officials who may target Trump's political enemies for criminal prosecution. Trump has named Musk, who owns or has key roles in the social media platform X, the auto company Tesla, and the rocket company SpaceX, to co-chair a "Department of Government Efficiency," a nongovernmental task force, and Musk has proposed cutting as much as $2 trillion from the federal budget, through unspecified measures. Nessel has previously expressed concern that Trump's deportation plans could divert federal resources from initiatives such as locating and prosecuting serial killers and stopping human trafficking. More: Michigan Attorney General informs consumers to file a complaint if subjected to fraud More: Michigan to require cage-free eggs Jan. 1: What it means for you Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, she addressed broader concerns about the Trump administration and said she hopes the U.S. Senate will "take a really strong look at the individuals" he has nominated for certain positions, through a "comprehensive and robust" confirmation process, to make sure they are well-qualified and "not there for the wrong reasons." Trump nominated to head the U.S. Justice Department former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, an outspoken defender of Trump, after his first choice, former congressman Matt Gaetz, withdrew his name from consideration amid scrutiny over allegations involving sex trafficking and sex with minors. Trump's nominee to head the FBI is Kash Patel, a former federal prosecutor who has talked about stripping the FBI of its intelligence-gathering role and going after, whether criminally or civilly, those in government and the news media he has accused of stealing the 2020 election for Democratic President Joe Biden at the expense of Trump. "We need a very strong FBI that is ethical and that has great integrity and great experience that works well with states, that works well with local authorities in solving crimes and protecting the public," Nessel said. "That's what they should be there for, not for retribution against the enemies of the president-elect." Nessel, a Democrat who is midway through her second and final four-year term as attorney general, said she didn't vote for Trump but the nation elected him and "elections have consequences." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he implements his policies in a way that is legal, Nessel said she will have no role in attempting to obstruct him and will not do so. "However, if these policies are promulgated in a way that they are violating the law or people's constitutional rights, it doesn't matter that you're in the majority," she said. "I will defend the people of this state and I will take action," she said. For now, Nessel said she is taking "a wait-and-see approach." Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Nessel vows to fight Trump if he violates rights of Michigan residents Jan. 6Attorney General Raul Torrez filed an emergency court motion Monday seeking a temporary restraining order to block a $1.9 million golden parachute from Western New Mexico University to outgoing President Joseph Shepard. Torrez called the severance payout to Shepard an egregious misuse of public funds and a betrayal of the WNMU Board of Regents' responsibility to act in the best interest of the university and its students. Shepard resigned as university president late last month after a fact-finding examination by the State Auditor's Office found more than $363,000 in wasteful spending and improper use of public funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Dr. Shepard voluntarily resigned, and the Board had ample opportunity to negotiate a reasonable or no-cost separation agreement," Torrez said in a statement. "Instead, they chose to pledge nearly $2 million in taxpayer money without justification or consideration of the public good." The motion, filed in the state's 6th Judicial District Court, notes the university agreed to pay Shepard more than three times what it would have been legally required to pay even if it had terminated his employment without cause. A spokesperson for Western did not return a message seeking comment. Torrez said the initial findings by the State Auditor's Office underscore the urgency of the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Board's attempt to squander public funds appropriated for the benefit of WNMU students, and the surrounding communities violates their legal duties of undivided loyalty to serve the public good and must be stopped," he said. Western's five-member board of regents unanimously approved the separation agreement in a special meeting Dec. 20. In addition to receiving a $1.9 million lump-sum payment by Jan. 15, the date his departure as president is effective, Shepard is guaranteed under a new contract a professorship in Western's School of Business. The contract calls for him to serve as a remote but tenured faculty member, earning at least $200,000 annually for five years. He also was given an eight-month sabbatical with full pay. The attorney general's motion asserts the board acted contrary to its fiduciary duty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The board ... pledged public funds for a Severance Payment that is not supported by an employment contract, is not accompanied by legitimate consideration to the State, and is unconscionable as a violation of public policy and the public interest," states the 65-page motion. Before terminating his existing employment agreement, the regents "did not publicly acknowledge, explain, or hold any discussion regarding the variety of other termination options ... much less explain their reasons for not exercising any of those options or for taking this action with audits pending," the motion states. The existing contract covered various methods of employment separation, including resignation, termination for cause and termination without cause for the best interests of the university. In the latter, Shepard would have been entitled to his base salary for a period of one and a half years from the date of the board's vote. On the day the board voted to terminate Shepard's existing contract, his base salary was $398,507. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Therefore, the absolute maximum that Western would have been legally obligated to pay Dr. Shepard if the Board terminated his Employment Agreement without cause was approximately $597,760.50 assuming there was no resignation or just cause for termination (both of which would require no severance payment at all)," the motion states. "Instead, the Board terminated the Employment Agreement with no explanation and agreed to pay Dr. Shepard more than three times that amount." The motion notes the difference in pay between the required termination without cause in Shepard's employment agreement and the amount offered in the separation agreement was more than $1.3 million. The New Mexico Department of Justice is asking the state court to grant a temporary restraining order that "immediately and temporarily prohibits" the Board of Regents from disbursing the severance payment "until a full evidentiary hearing on a preliminary injunction can be held." The motion also notes the state isn't asking the court to make any conclusive findings regarding waste or abuse of public funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The State merely asks the court to recognize that evidence already indicates the existence of breaches of fiduciary duties by the Board that will likely lead to the setting aside of the entire Separation Agreement or at least the Severance Payment," it states. "The Separation Agreement or Severance Payment clause may also be found either voidable or unenforceable due to lack of consideration, unconscionable terms, a lack of lawful purpose, against public policy, and violation of the anti-donation clause of the New Mexico Constitution." Follow Daniel J. Chacon on Twitter @danieljchacon. A bevy of state and federal officials came to the state Capitol on Monday to sign a first-in-the-nation agreement to help with water conservation efforts in the south fork of the Republican River on Colorado's Eastern Plains. (NewsNation) AI may be the next frontier in cancer detection as a new study shows that the technology can outperform human experts at identifying ovarian cancer in ultrasound images. A study conducted by researchers at Karolinska Institute in Sweden shows that Artificial Intelligence (AI) based models achieved an accuracy rate of 86% for detecting ovarian cancer, compared to 82% for human experts and 77% for those with less expertise. Researchers trained an AI program to be able to tell the difference between benign and malignant ovarian lesions, using more than 17,000 ultrasound images from nearly 3,700 patients across 20 hospitals in eight countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI helps identify prostate cancer scope: Study In a retrospective triage simulation, AI-driven diagnostic support reduced referrals to experts by 63% while significantly surpassing the diagnostic performance of the current practice, according to the study which was published in Nature Medicine. Ovarian tumors are common and are often detected by chance, Elisabeth Epstein, a senior physician with the Stockholm South General Hospitals Department of Clinical Science and Education, said in a news release from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden. There is a serious shortage of ultrasound experts in many parts of the world, which has raised concerns of unnecessary interventions and delayed cancer diagnosis. We therefore wanted to find out if AI can complement human experts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most teens use AI with little oversight: Study While the study noted that further prospective and randomized studies are needed to validate the clinical benefit and diagnostic performance of the AI models, the study offers insights into the applicability of AI-driven diagnostic support systems for ovarian cancer detection. The models consistent superiority to human assessment and robust performance under comprehensive evaluation indicates that they are ready for prospective clinical implementation studies, bringing us closer to the adoption of AI-assisted diagnostics in clinical settings, the study 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 NewsNation. On dubious authority, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon issued an order Tuesday purporting to block the public release of Special Counsel Jack Smiths closing report by Attorney General Merrick Garland. Cannons unprecedented order came at the urging of two former Trump aides who were charged in the Mar-a-Lago documents case, which is currently on appeal to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. The move comes as Trumps lawyers, many of whom have been tapped for substantial roles in the Justice Department in his new administration, have been lobbying Garland not to release Smiths report. The two-volume report seemingly includes Smiths findings in both the classified documents case and the Jan. 6 election subversion case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cannons order which blocks Garland from releasing, sharing, or transmitting the Final Report or any drafts of such Report outside the Department of Justice does not distinguish between the two volumes of Smiths report, potentially stretching her already strained authority even further, to the Jan. 6 case in which shes never been involved. Earlier today, the two Trump aides, Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveira, filed an emergency motion with the 11th Circuit, asking the appellate court to block the reports publication. In their Monday letter to Garland, Trumps lawyers lambasted Smith and demanded that Garland fire him. The release of any confidential report prepared by this out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor would be nothing more than a lawless political stunt, designed to politically harm President Trump and justify the huge sums of taxpayer money Smith unconstitutionally spent on his failed and dismissed cases, they wrote. Under such circumstances, releasing Smiths report is obviously not in the public interest particularly in light of President Trumps commanding victory in the election and the sensitive nature of the ongoing transition process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter makes clear that Trump and his allies interest in blocking the reports release extends beyond concern for Nauta and de Oliveira, whose cases are ongoing. In a brief response, Smith said that he would not give Garland his Mar-a-Lago documents findings until after 1 p.m. ET today, and that Garland, if he ultimately publishes the report, wouldnt do so before 10 a.m. ET on Friday. Trump and his team may win the publication battle by dint of running out the clock until the same lawyers asking that the DOJ suppress the report are leading the department. And so the Trump legal saga winds down the same way it began with comical overreach by Aileen Cannon, acting at the behest of a former and future president insisting that hes the victim of a political witch hunt. Read the order here: DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) Bangladeshs ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia left the nation's capital for London on Tuesday for medical treatment, said one of her advisers. Zahiruddin Swapan, an adviser to Zia, told The Associated Press by phone that the three-time former premier and head of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport late Tuesday on an air ambulance. Our senior leaders left the airport seeing her off, Swapan said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her ailments include liver cirrhosis, cardiac disease and kidney problems, according to her physician. Zia left behind a South Asian nation grappling with uncertainty over its political future after her archrival, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was ousted in a student-led mass uprising in August. Zia and Hasina are the most influential political leaders in Bangladesh. An interim government headed by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus is running the country and plans to hold elections in December this year or in the first half of 2026. Zia was sentenced to 17 years in jail under Hasinas rule following two corruption cases stemming from 2001-2006 when she was prime minister. Her supporters say the charges against her were politically motivated, an allegation Hasinas administration denied. Under Yunus, Zia was acquitted in one of the cases in November and an appeal in the second case was being heard on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zia, 79, was freed from prison on bail under Hasina through a government order and had been undergoing medical treatment in Bangladesh. But Hasinas administration did not allow her to travel abroad for treatment despite requests seeking approval. The special air ambulance was sent by Qatars emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Hundreds of her supporters gathered outside her residence in the city's upscale Gulshan area to see her off. Zias motorcade took nearly three hours to cross about a 10-kilometer (6-mile) stretch of road to get to the airport from her residence in Dhakas Gulshan area as thousands of her desperate supporters greeted her on the way, creating traffic chaos. Her hours-long journey to the airport was broadcast live by television stations. Enamul Haque Chowdhury, a close aide of Zia, told reporters that the air ambulance had arrived from Doha to take her to London, where her eldest son and heir apparent Tarique Rahman has been in exile since 2007. Rahman is the acting chairman of Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party and is expected to lead the party toward the election. The countrys dynastic politics have long focused on the families of Hasina and Zia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zia is the wife of late President Ziaur Rahman, a former military chief. He rose to prominence during years of tumultuous politics after Hasina's father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's independence leader, was assassinated along with most of his family members in a military coup in 1975. Zia's husband was also killed in 1981 in another military coup after he formed his political party and ruled the country as president for three years. Hasina's father led Bangladesh's independence war against Pakistan, aided by India, in 1971. Zias personal physician, A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain, said Qatars emir arranged the special aircraft with medical facilities for the former prime minister, whose ailments include liver cirrhosis, cardiac disease and kidney problems. Her departure follows dramatic political developments since last August, when Hasinas 15-year rule ended. Hasina fled into exile in India as she and her close aides faced charges of killing hundreds of protesters during a mass protest movement that began in July. Zias departure could create a symbolic vacuum in the countrys politics amid efforts by a student group that led the anti-Hasina protest to form a new political party. In the absence of Hasina and her secular Bangladesh Awami League party, the rise of Islamist political parties and other Islamist groups has been visible in the Muslim-majority country of 170 million people. Zia's party has been bargaining with the Yunus-led government for an election sometime this year. Yunus said his government wants to make some major reforms before the election. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) With bone chilling temperatures heading to Alabama, farmers are stopping at nothing to protect their most valuable commodities. Experts in agriculture discussed how they are handling the weather this week. Theres so much artic air up there, said Shep Morris, a Macon County farmer. Lets go ahead and get it on down here and get it over with. Morris farms sesame, cotton and corn. Right now, hes only growing cover crops, like rye, to protect the soil in the offseason. Morris said, however, to bring on the cold weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were just making sure all equipment has got antifreeze in it and faucets are dripping and water is cut off in the drain, Morris said. Wont have any surprises when it thaws out. Rick Pate, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, said livestock can burn a lot of energy in the cold. Its not just a matter of feeding them more hay, Pate said. They need some higher energy type things, pellets or different things to sustain them. I dont mean it will kill them, but if it sets them back, and they get other kind of respiratory problems because of the cold. Alabama man sentenced in COVID-19 loan scheme Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pate said some tender crops could be a concern, like strawberries. But in some cases, he said the cold actually helps crops and fights insects. You got some tender stuff like strawberries that will have to be covered, but I dont know theres a ton of itll probably knock out some of our winter wheat back a little bit, Pate said. For anyone worried about their plants at home, Morris had one word of wisdom. Well, just wrap them up, Morris said. If you got any lemon trees, just put them inside. Pate said most plants have had time to harden off by now. He said more tender plants, like ferns, can be covered with a blanket to keep them protected. 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. Demetrius Terrence Frazier is scheduled to be executed in February 2025 after he was convicted of capital murder. (Alabama Department of Corrections) After executing more people than any other state in 2024, Alabama will carry out its first this year in early February. On Tuesday, Gov. Kay Ivey published a letter she sent to John Hamm, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Corrections, indicating that she scheduled the execution of Demetrius Terrence Frazier for Feb. 6 by nitrogen gas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frazier was convicted of capital murder and sentenced him to death in June 1996. According to court documents, five years earlier, Frazier broke into a Birmingham apartment, and raped and killed a woman who lived there. He was arrested a few months later in Detroit. Frazier is set to be the fourth person that the state has executed using nitrogen gas since Alabama approved the method in 2018. In January 2024, the state put Kenneth Eugene Smith to death, followed by Alan Miller in September and Cary Dale Grayson in November. Alabama executed six people last year. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) Alabama has scheduled its fourth execution by nitrogen gas as critics continue to argue the new method needs additional scrutiny. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday set a Feb. 6 execution date for Demetrius Terrence Frazier, 52. Her office said the execution will be carried out by nitrogen gas. It is the states first scheduled execution of 2025. Frazier was convicted of killing Pauline Brown while burglarizing her Birmingham apartment in 1991. Prosecutors said Frazier, while in police custody in Detroit on an unrelated charged, confessed to raping and shooting Brown after stealing about $80 from her purse. A jury voted 10-2 that he receive a death sentence. A judge sentenced him to death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama last year became the first state to carry out an execution with nitrogen gas. Three inmates were put to death using the new method last year. The method involves placing a respirator gas mask over the persons face to replace breathable air with pure nitrogen gas, causing death by lack of oxygen. The state has maintained the new execution method causes a quick death while critics have said it does not work as the state promised. Attorneys for Frazier have an ongoing federal lawsuit seeking to block the state from carrying out his execution unless the state makes changes to the protocol. His lawyers argued the nitrogen gas causes conscious suffocation and that earlier nitrogen executions did not result in swift unconsciousness and death. Conscious suffocation violates the Eighth Amendments prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment because it superadds terror and pain, attorneys for Frazier wrote in a November court filing. Media witnesses, including The Associated Press, described how the subjects shook on the gurney for the first minutes of their execution, followed by what appeared to be several minutes of periodic labored breaths with long pauses in between. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state, which has maintained the movements are involuntary, has asked a federal judge to dismiss the lawsuit, noting Alabama has carried out three executions with the new method, and that Frazier years ago had selected it as his preferred execution method. ADOC officials do not agree with Frazier that other inmates executed by nitrogen hypoxia suffered terror and pain, lawyers for the state wrote in a Christmas Eve court filing. Lethal injection remains Alabamas primary execution method. Alabama in 2018 became the third state to authorize the use of nitrogen gas to execute prisoners. Alabama gave inmates a brief window to select their preferred execution method. Frazier and other inmates selected nitrogen gas as their preferred execution method, but at the time the state had not developed procedures for using the gas to carry out an execution. ___ This story has been updated to clarify that the scheduled execution date is Feb. 6 rather than Feb. 7. The time window for the execution ends at 6 a.m. on Feb. 7. WASHINGTON, D.C. (WHNT) Alabama Senator Katie Britt introduced her first bill of the 119th Congress Tuesday: The Laken Riley Act. The Laken Riley Act would require U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest illegal aliens who commit theft, burglary, larceny, or shoplifting offenses and would mandate that these aliens are detained until they are removed from the United States so they cannot re-offend and commit further crimes, Britt said. This legislation would also ensure states have standing to bring civil actions against federal officials who refuse to enforce immigration law or who violate the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laken Rileys mother and stepfather joined in with full support of this act introduced by Britt. The Laken Riley Act has our full support because it would help save innocent lives and prevent more families from going through the kind of heartbreak weve experienced. Laken would have been 23 on January 10th. There is no greater gift that could be given to her and our country than to continue her legacy by saving lives through this bill. Every single member of Congress should be able to get behind this purely commonsense bill that will make our country and communities safer. We thank Congressman Mike Collins, Senator Katie Britt, and Senator Ted Budd for continuing to work to honor Lakens legacy and get this legislation enacted into law. Allyson and John Phillips, Laken Rileys mother and stepfather Joining Senator Britt in reintroducing this companion bill in the Senate are Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.Dak.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), and the entire Senate Republican Conference. This legislation was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Mike Collins (R-Ga.). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The Alabama Symphony Orchestra will present its Momentum symposium and concert series in February. Its a free program that is open to high school and college students across Alabama who are seeking careers in the music industry. They will provide masterclasses and workshops with industry professionals from different genres. The series will be hosted on Feb. 6-7. To find more information, 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 CBS 42. Two Democratic vacancy committees this week will meet to pick successors to two state senators who resigned in December. For two years in a row, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game canceled the snow crab season in the Bering Sea after biologists discovered an estimated 10 billion crabs had mysteriously disappeared a 90% plunge in the population. Now, fishermen are once again allowed to catch snow crabs but they're facing uncertainty as the species has only rebounded to a small fraction of what it once was. Meanwhile, some are still dealing with the consequences of the two-year pause. "It's been extremely difficult," said commercial fisherman Gabriel Prout, who's based on Kodiak Island. "There's not a lot you can do. These boats are specifically designed to go out and catch crab, so we're over $4 million in debt." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biologists blamed the rapid decline of snow crab on a 2018 climate-fueled heatwave. This "warming event" was initially thought of as a rare "lightning strike," explained research biologist Ben Daly, but the "concern moving forward is that the predictions are suggesting higher frequency of lightning strikes in the future." Daly is now developing tracking devices to monitor snow crabs and identify healthy populations for sustainable harvesting. "It helps us understand their movement patterns in response to environmental changes," Daly said. And it's not just snow crabs that have been affected by warming waters. Other Alaskan species, like Pacific cod, king salmon and pollock have also experienced population decline. Between 2022 and 2023, Alaska's seafood industry suffered a nearly $2 billion loss, according to NOAA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That industry extends to fish markets and dinner tables thousands of miles from Alaska. In some places, prices of Alaskan seafood have shot up nearly 60% in just a few years, according to Expana, which monitors pricing across the seafood industry. "What the customer has to be aware of, more of what you'll be eating will be imported, more of what you'll be eating will be less regulated, more of what you'll be eating will be caught with destructive fishing gear," said Kenny Belov, who owns a seafood company and restaurant in California's Bay Area. In Kodiak, commercial fishing pots have returned to the water this season after officials lifted the two-year ban. The moratorium helped populations, but the quota will only be about a tenth of what it was three seasons ago. "It's hard to even consider a plan B when fishing is in my blood. I'm a third-generation fisherman," Prout said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, it's a modest lifeline for fishermen who find themselves drifting deeper into the unknown. 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 ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) The Albuquerque Fire Academy auditorium is going by a new name now honoring one of their most celebrated firefighters. Sam Trujillo joined the force in 1968 and retired as assistant fire chief in 1985. He had a big hand in creating many aspects of training, policy, and program development. New Mexico Department of Health encouraging people to try out Dry January The brotherhood that we create in the fire services goes beyond the job. I could go across this nation and run into a firefighter, and not just shake hands with them, but hug them, knowing that we are brothers and sisters through the fire profession, said Trujillo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trujillo was also appointed by the governor to the Albuquerque veteran advisory board. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) From crime, homelessness, economic investments, and a new presidential administration there are several potential changes in the pipeline for 2025. This week, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller joins Chris and Gabby to discuss some major events from 2024 and whats ahead for the new year. Keller is officially in the final year of his second term and will run for a third term. Whats his thinking behind another mayoral term? And what should Albuquerque be focused on the most in 2025? Under the new Trump administration, Mayor Keller explains his position and the citys policy when it comes to undocumented citizens and potential mass deportation efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our policy is that we do not ask, or track, or check the status of someones you know, how they got here and that kinda thing for anyone, Mayor Keller said. That goes for people who are citizens, and for immigrants, and for anyone in between. So there is no data, and we are not allowed to ask those questions. Tune into the full discussion to hear his response to other major news topics including the DWI-APD corruption scandal, an RFP for Expo New Mexico, and continued challenges in the International District. Download new episodes of the New Mexico News Insiders every Tuesday, starting around 5:30 a.m., Mountain time. Episodes are available on most podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean, among others. You can now watch our podcasts in video form both on-air or online. Tune in to an abbreviated version of the New Mexico News Insiders podcast on broadcast television every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. on Fox New Mexico. Full video episodes are posted on KRQEs YouTube page at youtube.com/krqenews13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having trouble finding the show? Try searching your favorite podcast player with the term KRQE or New Mexico News Insiders (without the quotes). You can also use the links above to find the podcast on each service or listen to the audio player at the top of this post. If you have a question, comment, or suggestion for who should be interviewed on the podcast, let us know! Email your hosts at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Lake Naivasha, northwest of Nairobi, Kenya is becoming increasingly unnavigable. Water hyacinth, the worlds most widespread invasive species, is blanketing the lake, choking its fish and leaving people stranded. Sometimes it becomes very serious, says Simon Macharia, a local fisherman, about the weed problem. There was this incident where fishermen were trapped by hyacinth inside the lake for three days. We had to seek help from the government (who) used a helicopter to rescue them. Macharia says that some days hes simply unable to fish on the lake because of the plant. When he does, he can lose his nets underneath the floating weed, incurring costs while preventing him from earning that day. Water hyacinths also cover the surface, cutting off sunlight, outcompeting other plant species and starving water of oxygen. That means there are fewer fish for Macharia to catch in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem is so vast it can be seen from space. It also threatens the cut off the flower industry in the wetlands surrounding the 150 square kilometer (58 square mile) lake. Whats happening in Lake Naivasha is a story repeated all over the world. Water hyacinths are native to South America, but were introduced as an exotic ornamental to many other countries. Theyve since taken over freshwater environments and are labeled an alien invasive species on every other continent aside from Antarctica. As well as their impact on biodiversity and livelihoods, the floating plant can clog hydroelectric and irrigation systems, meaning that one does not need to live in their proximity to be affected. Its the highest-profile example of an invasive aquatic plant crisis that has cost the global economy tens of billions of dollars historically, and now more than $700 million annually. The problem with water hyacinths is particularly acute in Africa. A 2024 report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), a body founded by the UN Environment Programme, described the plants exponential expansion, with land use changes and climate change adding potential fuel to the fire. Residents of Kihoto estate on the shores of Lake Naivasha, Kenya, were faced with water hyacinth at their doorsteps after extreme rainfall rose the level of the lake in October 2020. - TONY KARUMBA/AFP/AFP via Getty Images Taskforces from multiple organizations have attempted to find solutions. Introducing weevils that attack the plant can restrict its spread and even cause it to lose buoyancy. There are also proposals to harvest the water hyacinth and combine it with municipal waste and cow dung to produce biofuel. Now a Kenyan company is addressing the problem as well as the countrys plastic pollution issue by turning the invasive plant into a bioplastic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HyaPak Ecotech Limited, founded by Joseph Nguthiru, began life as a final year project by the former Egerton University civil and environmental engineering student. Nguthiru and his classmates experienced the problem of water hyacinths firsthand on a field trip to Lake Naivasha in 2021, when their boat became trapped for five hours. They returned determined to do something about it. Nguthirus bioplastic is made from dried water hyacinth combined with binders and additives, which is then mixed and shaped. The product, which biodegrades over a few months, was first used as an alternative for plastic packaging. In 2017, Kenya introduced a law banning single-use plastic bags, and in 2020 all single-use plastics were banned from protected areas. The results have been mixed; with homegrown manufacturing banned, there have been reports that single-use plastic bags have been smuggled into Kenya from neighboring countries. The problem behind (the ban) is that there were no proper alternatives that were produced, argued Nguthiru. His product is killing two birds with one stone, he believes. Most single-use plastic products tend to have a lifespan of about 10 minutes after they come out of supermarket shelves. So why not make them biodegradable? A 2018 image of a fisherman struggling to navigate through the waters of Lake Victoria, another lake in Kenya afflicted with water hyacinth. - Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP/Getty Images HyaPak has gained widespread attention, winning the Youth category at the East Africa Climate Action Awards, a prize at UNESCOs World Engineering Day Hackathon, and a Prototype for Humanity Award 2023 announced at the COP28 climate conference. Nguthiru was also named a 2023 Obama Foundation Africa Leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fishermen including Macharia are now harvesting the invasive plant on Lake Naivasha, then drying and selling it to HyaPak. Its a useful alternative income, he said, especially on days when the plant has covered his net, preventing it from catching fish. Macharia said he hopes HyaPak will soon be able to scale up its activities, allowing the lakes surrounding community to harvest greater quantities of water hyacinth. If Joseph could get funding, I think he can buy larger quantities and at least many people will get work, he said. One project that could help HyaPak grow is its partnership with the Kenyan government to use its products as part of a flagship reforestation scheme. According to Global Forest Watch, Kenya lost 14% of its tree cover between 2001 and 2023. In late 2022, Kenyas Forestry and Land Restoration Acceleration program committed to planting 15 billion seedlings by 2032 on degraded forest and rangeland. Doing so would bring the nations tree coverage to over 30 percent, said the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All those seedlings need bags in which to grow and be transported, and HyaPaks seedling bags are part of the plan, said Nguthiru. A plastic-based seedling bag has a carbon footprint of 1.6-1.7 kilograms, according to Nguthiru, and it is disposed of when the seedling is planted. HyaPaks alternative is planted with the seedling and biodegrades, releasing nutrients including nitrogen. Whats more, during the seedlings first months, the bioplastic slows water seeping into the surrounding soil, reducing the amount of watering required. HyaPak Ecotech Limited founder Joseph Nguthiru with one of the company's seedling packets, created from water hyacinth sourced from Lake Naivasha. - CNN You offset the carbon emissions that are going to be produced, youve used less water, youve added more nutrients its a win-win situation for communities, for the planet and for yourself as a farmer, Nguthiru argued. HyaPak is already exporting to the US and Germany and plans to establish franchises in India and El Salvador two countries with freshwater blighted by water hyacinth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nguthiru wants to create the quickest route for the world to benefit from his innovation, Even if that means open-sourcing some of this, so that the product and development and advancement of biodegradable plastic can go really fast, so be it. Beyond water hyacinth, he thinks urgent action is needed to tackle the climate crisis: Previous generations have failed us, and the ones that are coming afterwards are looking up to us. We are the ones who are going to live with a planet thats beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius (global temperature rise), he said. Its up to my generation to come up with solutions for the climate crisis, because if we dont do it, we are not going to do it at all. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com In a new court filing, federal prosecutors allege the suspect who took a hostage and got into a shootout with Yellowstone National Park rangers in July ranted that he "refuse[s] to fraternize with race-traitors that support non-whites or Jews." The Wyoming U.S. Attorney made the filing on Monday in an attempt to gain ownership over the suspect's guns and vehicles, which are in the possession of the federal government but not owned by them. In the filing, federal prosecutors call the suspect's actions an act of terrorism. Samson Fussner, the suspect who died in the shootout, allegedly made inflammatory comments about immigrants, African Americans and Jews while holding a woman hostage in her dorm room and in texts ahead of the shootout, according to federal prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing claims Fussner had engaged in the "planning of and preparation to carry out a terrorist attack against the United States, its citizens and their property," ultimately culminating in the events of the shootout and hostage kidnapping. Fussner, who came from Milton, Florida, complained in texts to his brother about the local diversity, saying he lived in a "hellscape" and would "go postal" if he stayed in Yellowstone longer. He allegedly also texted his brother that he was obsessed with the woman he later kidnapped for a couple of hours, calling her "German stock." During the kidnapping, he told the woman he did not like "how America was bringing in non-Americans" and wanted to "make a statement because politics in America are messed up," the complaint read. Fussner had also been spewing white supremacist and antisemitic views for months before the shootout, according to the filing. PHOTO: Authorities respond to an incident at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, July 4, 2024. (Obtained by ABC News) Just after midnight on July 4, Yellowstone's 911 dispatch center received a report that a woman had been held against her will by a man with a gun in her dorm residence. She reported that Fussner threatened to kill her and others, including plans to allegedly carry out a mass shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fussner, of Milton, Florida, was confronted by Yellowstone law enforcement rangers early the next morning July 4 while allegedly shooting a semi-automatic rifle toward a dining facility at Canyon Village, according to NPS. Approximately 200 people were in the facility at the time, NPS said. During an exchange of gunfire, Fussner was shot by law enforcement rangers and died at the scene, NPS said. A ranger was also shot in a lower extremity, the service noted. Fussner was an employee of Xanterra Parks and Resorts, a private business authorized to operate in Yellowstone. Alleged racist rants of Yellowstone park shooter uncovered in new court filing originally appeared on abcnews.go.com (NewsNation) Allstate CEO Tom Wilson is facing backlash for a message that played during pregame festivities at last weeks Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. Wilson first said his prayers are with the victims of the New Orleans attack before saying people need to be stronger together by overcoming an addiction to divisiveness and negativity just one day after a deadly terror attack that killed 14 people and injured dozens more. NewsNation media contributor Colby Hall believes Wilsons intentions behind his message were good but says it was tone deaf when Wilson pivoted given the attack that just happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man behind New Orleans attack visited the city twice before: FBI In the first hours of New Years Day, suspect Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a rented truck down New Orleans bustling Bourbon Street. Jabbar then opened fire on a crowd, including police, and was killed by law enforcement on the scene. Hall told NewsNation its stunning that no one thought to rethink the messaging. He posits that, due to the holidays, the more senior employees werent around to handle the situation. I suspect whatever crisis manager or PR consultant that was working with Allstate may be looking for a new job, Hall said. So, again, I think the intentions, the spirit, was there, but the letter of the law really did backfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we know about the suspect in the New Orleans attack This was a fail. Im sure people will learn valuable lessons from this, and the world will keep on turning and insurance industry will continue to make a lot of money, Hall added. Allstate has since scrubbed the video from its social media accounts. NewsNations Danielle Crenshaw 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 NewsNation. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) While most people spent Monday morning clearing snow off their car or sidewalk, one Blair County grandfather made it a fun activity. Jamie Cheers shoveled snow with his grandson Isaac, who had the day off from daycare. Its a nice light fluffy snow. So its not hard to shovel, Cheers said. Monday mornings snowfall also caused several school districts in Central Pennsylvania to close schools or switch to flexible instruction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upgrade to a Winter Storm Warning for Southern Pennsylvania Cheers started shoveling snow shortly before 10 a.m. Thankfully I got my grandson back here helping. I always love the snow. Thats why I got him out in here. Oh, and back out in the road he goes, Cheers said, as Isaac shoveled snow off the sidewalk. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. After they finished shoveling the snow, Jamie and Isaac went inside to have some hot chocolate and watch television, just in time for lunch. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6Honoring an elementary school, saying goodbye to a beloved principal and remembering the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter are just a few things on tap for students of Albuquerque Public Schools when they return to the classroom Tuesday. It was students' first day back at school following a two-week winter break. Students were off Monday while teachers and staff worked during a professional development day. The start of a new semester comes following a somewhat tumultuous first half of the school year for APS. In August, Superintendent Gabriella Blakey began her two-year tenure in the top role following a start and stop search process. She said "challenges remain" for Native American, African American and English-learner students in terms of testing proficiency as appeals over the state's landmark Yazzie-Martinez lawsuit carry on. A book-banning pastor caused a stir during a November APS Board of Education meeting and a month later, despite outcry from families, the board approved the closure of Taft Middle School at the end of the current school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honoring test score improvements and a former president Even before students' official return, Alvarado Elementary School on Monday became one out of 100 schools nationwide to earn a national distinguished school designation for improvements made in reading and math scores. Alvarado went from 40.7% to 47% proficient in reading/literacy in English; 10.4% to 24.1% proficient in Spanish; and 18.1% to 52.9% proficient in math, according to Alvarado Principal Desiree Springer. "Promoting the importance of being in school every day, except when they are sick, helps us to make sure our students are receiving the daily curriculum they need to succeed," Springer said in a news release. APS also announced a new process for families who want to request their children attend another school outside of their neighborhood. They can request transfer online as opposed to doing it in person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carter Middle School will hold a number of activities to honor the 39th president, who died at his home in Plains, Georgia on Dec. 29 at age 100. Principal Michelle Velasquez said morning announcements will honor Carter every day this week, as funeral proceedings continue. On Jan. 8, while Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., students will write letters of kindness in honor of Carter. On Jan. 9, a day of national mourning for Carter during his D.C. funeral and return to Plains, short videos, presumably about the peanut farmer turned governor and president, will be shown to students during class periods. High school principal resignsLa Cueva High School Principal Maurice Guerin will resign from his position on Friday, according to a Dec. 20 letter sent to families by Marco Harris, assistant superintendent of high schools for APS. Guerin made the decision "after much consideration of his personal health to focus on his family's well-being," wrote Harris, who will serve as the school's interim principal. Guerin was not immediately available for comment. 'Every day matters' In a prepared statement, APS Deputy Superintendent Antonio Gonzales said on Monday that spring semester "offers an opportunity for a new start" and he hopes students look at it "as an opportunity to see how they can grow and to set new goals for themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzales not only urged parents to communicate with their children and teachers, he called student attendance "vital." APS, like many school districts throughout the state, have looked for ways to stem chronic absenteeism, which pertains to students missing 10% or more of school days. About 31% of APS students were chronically absent in the 2023-2024 school year, according to district data. "Parents and students should keep in mind that every day matters. Being in your seat in the classroom every day, you can't beat it," Gonzales said on Monday. "There's no way to make up what you miss in a meaningful way." Former President Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalyn at Game Three of the 2010 MLB Playoffs between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco Giants on Oct. 10, 2010 at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia. Jimmy Carter died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, at age 100. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images.) This is a split screen moment in America. On one side of the screen, a former president is being memorialized this week not only for his service to country but for the principled life he personified with renowned caring and decency. On the other side of the screen, another former/future president is being remembered this week for the violent insurrection he inspired with his stolen election Big Lie before he appears in court Friday for his sentencing on 34 felony convictions. The cognitive dissonance is extreme. We are peering at a freeze frame of our national schism over what makes America great. Is greatness a twice-impeached Donald Trump, who tried to extort a desperate Ukraine to dig up dirt on Joe Biden and then conspired to fraudulently prevent president-elect Biden from taking office? Or is greatness reflected instead in the caliber of American leadership the late Jimmy Carter represented as a Naval officer, state senator, governor, and 39th President of the United States who spent decades of his post-presidency as an unassuming global humanitarian? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What makes America genuinely great cant be the normalization of hateful degeneracy and promised retribution by an authoritarian government of, by, and for billionaires. What has always made America great are those who dream big for the benefit of mankind. History will judge the highs and lows of Jimmy Carters single term in the White House, but the standard he set as a true public servant in and out of power is undisputed and universally respected. The peanut farmer-turned-improbable-president was complex and conflicted, but it was the integrity of his character, his commitment to make a meaningful difference in lives, and his wellspring of compassion that even divided Americans recognized when Carter died. He was seen for what he was: a man of faith who dedicated his life after the presidency to improving the world as a fulcrum for social justice, advancing democracy, and other noble causes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Carter built metaphorical bridges internationally and actual houses for those who couldnt afford a place to call home. He was a Nobel Peace Prize winner, handy with a tool belt and hammer, who went to work with other Habitat for Humanity volunteers. The people he helped could never help him, either politically or financially, said one observer, what better legacy could you have to do things for others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was private citizen Carter, from a tiny speck of a town in rural Georgia, who labored in a hard hat on housing construction into his 90s. An earnest, patient, proud man with a generous spirit of selfless giving that goes on in his memory. Is it him, and those who follow his lead, that make America great or those who wrap themselves in the flag and try to burn down the ideals it symbolizes? Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, who served in the Carter administration, said her former boss was a red, white and blue patriot who didnt wear his patriotism on his sleeve like some folks that are beating their chest all the time. It was the way he lived that showed who he was. Acknowledgement of that kind of admirable was bipartisan. The states congressional delegation knew what had been lost. Jimmy Carter was a good and honest man who devoted his life to service in the military and government and his work helping with affordable housing, said Cincinnati Republican Brad Wenstrup. President Carters legacy is one of kindness and humanitarianism, Mike Carey, R-Columbus, added. While our politics differed, he served our nation with honor, stressed Republican Dave Joyce, R-OH-14. To Max Miller, R-Rocky River, the late president was a man of integrity. Thank you for your example. Akron Democrat Emilia Sykes echoed the sentiment that Carter was a decent and kind man who served as a model for every public servant to emulate. He was a thoughtful, if not perfect, president who led by moral example not incendiary tweets or petulant rants beneath the dignity of his office and certainly antithetical to Carters personal criterion of respectful conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was a time when Americans expected no less of their commander in chief. A time, not so long ago, when a presidential candidate who vowed to punish his political enemies, issue blanket pardons of insurrectionists who savagely beat their way into the U.S. Capitol, and order dehumanizing cruelty on a mass scale would have been shunned. When a criminally indicted defendant facing trial in four different jurisdictions would have been a joke as a presidential aspirant. When a person convicted by a jury of his peers on 34 felony counts and separately of sexual abuse and defamation of his victim couldnt possibly be elected to the highest office in the land. Yet, on Jan. 20, Donald Trump will again put his hand on a Bible to take the presidential oath he desecrated four years ago by trying to overturn a democratic election. He has already ranted about the nations flags flying at half-staff through his inauguration in mourning for Carter. Americas split screen has come into focus with the anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack, the president-elect being sentenced as a felon and the state funeral of the president from Plains, Ga. Grieve for the loss of honorable. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) The owner of Americano Steak House & Wine Bar in Roan Mountain has announced plans to open a new restaurant in Jonesborough. Troy Boane revealed on Tuesday that he and his wife Lindsey plan to open Jacksons Prime in the heart of historic Jonesborough in spring 2025. The steak house will be located at 111 West Main St. at the old post office. Chancellor dismisses Johnson City election lawsuit Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boane stated in a news release that Jacksons Prime, which he will operate, will feature a thoughtfully curated menu that showcases innovative techniques and high-quality ingredients. The Boanes hope to create an intimate and elegant atmosphere in the new dinner-only restaurant. We are thrilled to bring Jacksons Prime to Jonesborough, Boane said in the release. This towns rich history and welcoming community make it the perfect setting for our next chapter. Our goal is to create a dining experience that celebrates great food and warm hospitality in a way that feels truly special. Photo: Troy Boane, owner of Americano Steak House in Roan Mountain. (WJHL) Boane told News Channel 11 that Americano Steak House & Wine Bar, which was voted Tri-Cities Best Steak by viewers, will remain in Roan Mountian, and they have no interest in leaving that market. The name is an homage to Andrew Jackson and his role in Jonesboroughs history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building that will house Jacksons Prime was renovated by Wolfe Development. Our company renovated this building in anticipation of eventually finding the perfect fine dining restaurant to complement downtown Jonesborough, Kelly Wolfe of Wolfe Development said. We believe Troy and Lindsey and their team at Jacksons Prime will be a perfect fit for the busiest little town in Northeast Tennessee. We couldnt be more proud of their success in Roan Mountain and look forward to them being a fixture in downtown Jonesborough for many, many years to come. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 federal judge last month ordered a hearing to determine if a detainee in Aurora who has spent the last 21 months in immigration custody should be released during the remainder of his removal proceedings. It took my father nearly 70 years to become a social butterfly. After decades of tinkering with Photoshop on a decrepit Macintosh, he upgraded to an iPad and began uploading collages of photos he took on nighttime walks around London to Flickr and then to Instagram. The likes came rolling in. A photographer from Venezuela applauded his composition. A violinist in Italy struck up a conversation about creativity. And then, as quickly as he had made his new friends, he lost them. One night in 2020, he had a seizure. Then he began forgetting things that hed just been told and sleeping most of the day. When he picked up his iPad again, it was incomprehensible to him. A year or so later, he put an electric kettle on the gas stove. Not long after, he was diagnosed with Alzheimers. An estimated 7 million Americans age 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimers; by 2050, that number is expected to rise to nearly 13 million. Millions more have another form of dementia or cognitive decline. These diseases can make simple tasks confusing, language hard to understand, and memory fleeting, none of which is conducive to social connection. And because apps and websites constantly update, they pose a particular challenge for patients who cannot learn or remember, which means that people like my father, who rely heavily on social media to stay in touch, may face an even higher barrier to communication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When my father turned on his iPad again about a year after his seizure, he couldnt find the Photoshop app because the logo had changed. Instagram, which now had Reels and a shopping tab, was unnavigable. Some of his followers from Instagram and Flickr had moved on to a new appTikTokthat he had no hope of operating. Whenever we speak, he asks me where his former life has disappeared to: Where are all my photos? Why did you delete your profile? I wrote a reply to a message; where has it gone? Of all the losses caused by Alzheimers, the one that seems to have brought him the most angst is that of the digital world he had once mastered, and the abilities to create and connect that it had afforded him. [Read: My dad had dementia. He also had Facebook.] In online support forums, caretakers of Alzheimers and dementia patients describe how their loved ones struggle to navigate the platforms they were once familiar with. One member of the r/dementia Subreddit, who requested not to be identified out of respect for her fathers privacy, told me that, about a decade ago, her father had been an avid emailer and used a site called Friends Reunited to recall the past and reconnect with old acquaintances. Then he received his dementia diagnosis after back-to-back strokes; his PC now sits unused. Amy Evans, a 62-year-old in Sacramento, told me that her father, who passed away in May at the age of 92, started behaving erratically online at the onset of Alzheimers. He posted on Facebook that he was looking for a sex partner. Then he began responding to scam emails and ordering, among other things, Xanax from India. Evans eventually installed child-protection software on his computer and gave him a GrandPad to connect with family and friends. But he kept forgetting how to use it. Nasrin Chowdhury, a former public-school teachers aide who lives in New York City, once used Facebook to communicate daily with family and friends, but now, after a stroke and subsequent Alzheimers diagnosis at 55, she will sit for hours tapping the screen with her fingereven if nothing is there, her daughter Eshita Nusrat told me. Ill come home from work, and shell say she texted me and I never replied, but then Ill look at her phone and she tried to type it out in YouTube and post it as a video, Chowdhurys other daughter, Salowa Jessica, said. Now Chowdhury takes calls with the aid of her family, but she told me that, because she cant use social media, she feels she has no control of her own life. Many patients with dementia and related cognitive disorders lose the ability to communicate, regardless of whether they use technology to do it. Its a vicious cycle, Joel Salinas, a clinical assistant professor of neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, told me, because social disconnect can, in turn, hasten the cognitive degeneration caused by Alzheimers and dementia. Social media, by its very nature, is an especially acute challenge for people with dementia. The online world is a largely visual medium with a complex array of workflows, and dementia commonly causes visual processing to be interrupted or delayed. And unlike face-to-face conversation, landlines, or even flip phones, social media is always evolving. Every few months on a given platform, buttons might be changed, icons reconfigured, or new features released. Tech companies say that such changes make the user experience more seamless, but those with short-term memory loss can find the user experience downright impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the whole, social-media companies have not yet found good solutions for users with dementia, JoAnne Juett, Metas enterprise product manager for accessibility, told me. I would say that were tackling more the loss of vision, the loss of hearing, mobility issues, she said. Design changes that address such disabilities might help many dementia patients who, thanks to their advanced age, have limited mobility. But to accommodate the unique needs of an aging or cognitively disabled user, Juett believes that AI might be crucial. If, lets say, Windows 7 is gone, AI could identify my patterns of use, and adapt Windows 11 for me, she said. Juett also told me her 97-year-old mother now uses Siri to make calls. It allows her to maintain social ties even when she cant keep track of where the Phone app lives on her iPhones screen. [Read: How people with dementia make sense of the world] The idea of a voice assistant that could reconnect my father to his online world is enticing. I wish he had a tool that would allow him to connect in the ways that once gave him joy. Such solutions will become only more necessary: Americans are, on average, getting both older and more reliant on technology to communicate. The oldest Americans, who are most likely to experience cognitive decline, came to social media later in lifeand still, nearly half of the population over 65 uses it. Social media is an inextricable part of how younger generations connect. If the particular loneliness of forgetting how to use social media is already becoming apparent, what will happen when an entire generation of power users comes of age? Article originally published at The Atlantic MIAMI (AP) A former U.S. Marine and a Florida man who were imprisoned in Venezuela have sued President Nicolas Maduro, accusing the leftist leader of heading a vast criminal enterprise that has co-opted the state and uses American citizens as bargaining chips in negotiations with the U.S. The complaint filed Monday in Miami federal court by Matthew Heath and Osman Khan is similar to a slew of lawsuits that have resulted in major judgments for Americans imprisoned in Venezuela. All sought damages under a little-used federal law, the Anti-Terrorism Act, that allows American victims of foreign terror groups to seize the assets of their victimizers. The latest lawsuit alleges that security officials under the command of Maduro subjected the men to a pattern of torture waterboarding, electrocution, threats of rape with a nightstick, mind-altering medications and the repeated use of a cramped cell nicknamed El Tigrito that is also being looked at by prosecutors from the International Criminal Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The kidnapping, torture and ransoming of American citizens was part of a continuous and systematic scheme to coerce the United States government into policy concessions, the end of an oil embargo, and prisoner swaps, attorneys for Heath and Khan argue in the 87-page complaint. Among the other 17 named defendants are Maduros defense minister, attorney general and interior minister as well as state-run oil and gold-mining companies. Heath, a former U.S. Marine corporal from Tennessee and onetime U.S. security consultant in Afghanistan, was arrested in 2020 at a roadblock in Venezuela. Authorities charged him with terrorism after allegedly finding weapons and a satellite phone in his possession. Maduro said he was in the country surveilling oil refineries as a spy for then-President Donald Trump. Heath's family said he was stuck in Colombia when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down air travel, leaving him stranded. He crossed the border into Venezuela in the hope of taking a short boat ride to Aruba, where a trawler he fixed up to start a chartering business was docked, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Khan was working in Colombia after graduating from college in Florida when he fell in love with a Venezuelan woman who invited him to meet her family. He was detained in January 2022 while crossing the border with his girlfriend and her father on a motorized canoe as instructed by the woman's brother, a Venezuelan national guardsman. He was later charged with crimes including terrorism and human trafficking. The U.S. government determined both men were wrongfully detained on false charges. Heath and Khan were released after being held 752 and 259 days respectively in October 2022 along with five U.S. oil executives in exchange for two nephews of first lady Cilia Flores jailed in the U.S. on narcotics convictions. Venezuela's government did not immediately comment on the lawsuit when contacted by The Associated Press but has long denied it targets Americans for imprisonment. Other Americans who have been imprisoned in Venezuela have won major judgments against Maduro and his inner circle on similar legal grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, a federal judge in Miami awarded $73 million in damages to the family of a prominent opponent of Maduro who died while in custody after inexplicably falling from the 10th floor of a building belonging to the SEBIN political police. And last year an exiled Venezuelan lawyer won $153 million after he was lured back home because his father had been kidnapped, only to end up imprisoned himself on trumped-up charges of working as a financial terrorist. As in the earlier cases, Heath and Khan in their lawsuit accused Maduro of controlling the Cartel of the Suns, a purported drug-smuggling ring involving top Venezuelan officials and guerrillas from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia allegedly flooding the U.S. with cocaine. But collecting those large rewards has proven daunting. Neither Maduro nor any of his close aides are known to have properties or bank accounts in the U.S. under their name. Whatever wealth officials have stolen is more likely to be held by a myriad of front men whose assets are hard to trace and seize. ___ Follow Goodman: @APJoshGoodman AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) Two Amherst firefighters, Aidan J. Brooks and William R. Mueller, were recognized on Monday at a ceremony for their graduation from the Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program led by the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. Brooks and Mueller were among 20 graduating firefighters across 11 Massachusetts fire departments celebrated in the event in Springfield. State Fire Marshal John M. Davine, as well as leaders from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, presided over the ceremony. Wilbraham Road in Hampden reopens after car fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts firefighters are on the frontlines protecting their communities every day, and todays graduates are needed now more than ever, Davine said. The hundreds of hours of foundational training theyve received will provide them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely. The two Amherst firefighters were both hired full-time in June 2023 and completed their paramedic training in 2024. Prior to becoming a firefighter, Mueller worked for the American Medical Response ambulance service in Springfield, while Brooks was a member of the Student Force while studying at the University of Massachusetts Amherst until his graduation in 2023. We are excited to have both Aidan and William graduate from the Fire Academy and join the ranks of our fulltime career firefighter/paramedics, said Amherst Fire Chief Lindsay Stromgren. Both excelled at the academy and will be a valuable addition to our force and will begin working on their respective shifts this week. The Amherst Fire Department currently has openings for on-call and full-time firefighters. Applications can be found here. 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. AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) The Town of Amherst is inviting the community to discuss future housing plans. Amherst moves forward in construction of new elementary school This initiative aims to identify and address the housing needs of low- and moderate-income residents in Amherst, with an emphasis on affordability and diverse housing options. As part of the planning process, the town conducted a public survey in November, receiving robust community participation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the top priorities that were identified by survey participants include: Creating housing across a range of price points. Increasing diverse housing options citywide. Enabling residents to remain in their current homes and community as they age. The open house will be at the Jones Library from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday and will provide an opportunity for residents to explore the survey results and share additional feedback. Hosted by the Town of Amherst and Barrett Planning group, the event will have activity stations where participants can share ideas. Pizza, snacks, and drinks will be provided for those who attend, as well as coloring activities and interactive materials for children. 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 chairman and CEO of Columbia-based Tenable Holdings died Jan. 3, the cybersecurity company said. Amit Yoran, who led the company through a period of growth and a 2018 initial public offering, died of cancer, Tenable said in an announcement Saturday. He joined the company as CEO in 2016. Yoran was 54. His passion for cybersecurity, his strategic vision, and his ability to inspire those around him have shaped Tenables culture and mission, Art Coviello, Tenables lead independent director, said in the announcement. His legacy will continue to guide us as we move forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoran took a medical leave of absence on Dec. 5. Tenables board had appointed Steve Vintz, chief financial officer, and Mark Thurmond, chief operating officer, as co-CEOs. The company will operate under their leadership while the board seeks a new CEO. Coviello will serve as chairman. Before joining Tenable, Yoran had served as president of RSA Security and founding CEO of NetWitness. Yoran, a computer science graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point who enjoyed riding motorcycles, described Tenable as a mission-oriented company in a 2023 Baltimore Sun story. The cybersecurity work that we do matters, Yoran told The Sun. Its important to our customers and the world. And thats something we take very seriously. It leads to a sense of dedication from our entire team. Have a news tip? Contact Lorraine Mirabella at lmirabella@baltsun.com, (410) 332-6672 and @lmirabella on X. An analysis of more than 70 studies on fluoride and IQ levels concluded there was a relationship between higher levels of the common water additive and lower IQ levels in children, though a large percentage of the studies were noted as having a high risk of bias. The meta-analysis published in the medical journal JAMA Pediatrics was supported by and conducted on behalf of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences under the National Institutes of Health. Assessors looked at 74 studies sourced internationally for the analysis. Studies from China accounted for the majority of those reviewed at 45 studies, or 61 percent. India was the second most represented country in the analysis with 12 studies included. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The studies were also evaluated for bias, and 52 out of the 74 studies, or 70 percent, were found to have a high risk of bias. Without excluding any of the studies, the authors concluded that their review found an inverse relationship between higher levels of fluoride in drinking water and urine and childrens IQ. The analysis found that children exposed to higher levels of fluoride had statistically significantly lower IQ scores. When only the 22 studies with low risk of bias were analyzed, the inverse association between fluoride exposure and IQ levels remained the same in studies that looked at fluoride in drinking water at levels of less than 4 mg/L, less than 2 mg/L and less than 1.5 mg/L. The inverse association between fluoride levels and IQ levels remained the same when the analysis accounted for age, sex, country and exposure timing. The assessors also noted that there are no known epidemiological studies on fluoride exposure and childrens IQ in the U.S., making the results of their analysis difficult to apply to the U.S. population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also noted there was limited data and uncertainty regarding the effect of fluoride on childrens IQ levels when fluoride from drinking water was less than 1.5 mg/L. The US Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 mg/L, which public water systems across the country abide by. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President-elect Trumps nominee for secretary of Health and Human Services, is vehemently opposed to water fluoridation and has stated one of his goals if confirmed would be to remove the additive from the U.S. water supply. Water fluoridation is a state and local decision, but theoretical avenues for banning the practice at the federal level do exist. The National Toxicology Program (NTP) under the Department of Health and Human Services released the findings of its own evaluation of fluorides impact on neurodevelopment and cognition in 2024. The NTP concluded that higher levels of fluoride exposure, such as drinking water containing more than 1.5 milligrams of fluoride per liter, are associated with lower IQ in children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the office noted there wasnt enough data to determine if the 0.7 mg/L concentration of fluoride used throughout the U.S. similarly has a negative impact on childrens IQs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7UPDATE 7:20 a.m. Tuesday: The National Weather Service has extended a winter weather advisory for rain on ice until 10 a.m. Tuesday as record warmth Monday led to dangerously slick conditions on side roads, parking lots and sidewalks. The agency measured 42 degrees in Anchorage on Monday, a degree warmer than the prior record of 41 degrees set in 2014. People Mover buses were operating Tuesday but officials warned of delays due to weather and road conditions. The University of Alaska Anchorage's campus was closed Tuesday; events at the Alaska Airlines Center are not impacted by the weather closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UPDATE 4:30 a.m. Tuesday: All Anchorage and Mat-Su schools will be closed Tuesday due to continuing poor weather and road conditions, the school districts announced around 4:30 a.m. In Anchorage, rental facilities will be open for community groups and activities, the district said. Mat-Su officials said a decision on after-school activities Tuesday will be made by noon. Schools in the central Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (Nikiski to Sterling to Tustumena) were placed on a two-hour delay for opening, officials said. Monday story: A warmer weather system moving into Southcentral Alaska was making for treacherously slick roads and expected to bring high winds to parts of Anchorage and Mat-Su through Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strongest winds, with some gusts upwards of 100 mph, were expected near Portage, according to a warning issued by the National Weather Service in effect from 3 p.m. Monday until 6 a.m. Tuesday. Winds of 35 to 55 mph with gusts up to 85 mph were forecast for the Anchorage Hillside and Turnagain Arm. A warning for the Matanuska Valley predicted winds of 35 to 55 mph, with gusts up to 75. The Anchorage School District canceled after-school activities Monday due to the anticipated winds and hazardous road conditions. The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District also canceled after-school activities at all schools and closed Glacier View School Monday due to hazardous weather. By midafternoon Monday, People Mover suspended all bus service due to "extreme ice buildup" and dangerous road conditions in Anchorage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anchorage police said they had logged 57 crashes or collisions, 10 involving injuries, by the time the afternoon commute got underway just before 5 p.m. The weather service issued a winter weather advisory for Anchorage, Indian, Eagle River, Eklutna, Palmer, Wasilla, Sutton and Chickaloon warning of the potential for dangerous roads. Precipitation was expected to fall steadily as rain or freezing rain until early Tuesday, meteorologist Carson Jones said. "Temperatures are going to be above freezing probably for most of the rain, but our roads are still frozen, so that's the main concern," he said. "Even though the temperatures are probably going to be in the mid-30s to 40s, we were just near zero for the last week, so the rain might just freeze onto the roadways maybe not the main roads, but the neighborhoods will be pretty bad." [Related: One of Anchorage's least-snowy Decembers on record makes for idle plows and happy skaters] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By afternoon, the weather service said they had received dozens of reports of rain freezing on roads from the Kenai Peninsula, north through Anchorage, and into Mat-Su, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 40 degrees. Moderate to heavy snow was reported on the Anchorage Hillside, though rain was also expected to return there later in the day, the agency said. Eklutna Lake Road was closed at the Old Glenn Highway exit Monday afternoon due to "extreme ice buildup and unsafe road conditions," police said. There was no estimate for when the road would reopen. Hundreds of people visited Eklutna Lake over the weekend to skate on smooth, clear ice. By Monday afternoon, reports on social media described the road to the lake itself as a skating rink, with multiple cars in the ditch. Anchorage is forecast to receive only a few tenths of an inch of rain, but 2 to 4 inches could fall south of Girdwood toward Seward, Jones said. The Seward Highway was icy by Monday morning. A semi slid from the road and into a pond late Sunday near Portage, triggering a lengthy road closure Monday morning as a tow truck removed it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weather service warned that strong winds could cause power outages and make driving difficult. Winds are predicted to be strongest near Portage, where gusts could reach up to 100 mph, the wind warning said. Sustained east and southeast winds of 35 to 55 mph, with gusts from 75 to 85 mph, are forecast for Turnagain Arm, the Hillside and Matanuska Valley. A downed tree damaged an electrical pole in Girdwood around 2 p.m., leaving roughly 500 Chugach Electric Association members without power, the cooperative said. Alyeska Resort stopped all lift operations on Monday afternoon "due to extreme weather, intense winds and an extended power outage." The Sitzmark Bar and Grill and the Nordic Spa were also closed. Around 125 homes or businesses in East Anchorage also lost power just after 2 p.m., according to Chugach Electric. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The changing weather also led to high avalanche danger warnings in Turnagain Pass and near Summit Lake on Monday, according to the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center. Travel in avalanche terrain was not recommended. The state Department of Transportation and Public Facilities planned to complete avalanche hazard reduction work Tuesday morning on the Seward Highway and announced intermittent delays between Girdwood and Portage. Rain was expected to return to the area Thursday, although there is a chance that some precipitation could fall as snow, Jones said. Conditions are expected to remain warmer through the weekend, he said. Jan. 7This article was produced in partnership with ProPublica's Local Reporting Network. The evidence was overwhelming from the time it all began in 2017. A sexual assault in broad daylight at a popular Anchorage park, with a witness who dialed 911 and described the attack as it was happening. A police officer hoisting the suspect from atop one of the victims, the suspect's pants still around his knees. DNA evidence corroborating the crime. Yet in Alaska's slow-motion court system, it took more than seven years for the case against Fred Tom Hurley III to finally go to trial, in December. Attorneys came and went with the passage of time a series of six for the defense and four for the prosecution as judges granted 50 delays. Most of the slowdowns came at the request of Hurley's lawyers, long before and long after the COVID-19 pandemic paused jury trials across the state. At hearing after hearing, talks concerned scheduling, not the facts of the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the two women Hurley was charged with assaulting, justice delayed meant justice denied in their lifetimes. Both died before the case ever reached the jury. Told the details of the case, former Florida state prosecutor Melba Pearson called it "a travesty of justice." "That's a travesty. Period. End of story," said Pearson, who recently co-authored a report on trial delays across the country. What's surprising isn't how long the Hurley case lingered unresolved, but how ordinary it is in Alaska's court system. A recent Anchorage Daily News and ProPublica investigation found hundreds of misdemeanor criminal cases in Anchorage thrown out of court because overwhelmed city prosecutors couldn't meet speedy trial deadlines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when it comes to felonies in Anchorage and across the state, the opposite problem often exists for victims and witnesses: a wait of five, seven or even 10 years or more to reach trial, plea agreement or dismissal, often because of defense motions to delay. As a benchmark, the National Center for State Courts says 98% of felonies should be resolved in under a year. The extreme pretrial delays in Alaska are especially striking because it has one of the nation's strictest limits on how long cases can drag out: 120 days from the time a person is charged. In reality, this deadline is rarely met. Over a recent 12-month period, only seven criminal cases went to trial within 120 days in Alaska state courts. The problem is getting worse. The median time to resolve the most serious felony cases, such as murder and sexual assault, has nearly tripled over the past decade, from just over a year in 2013 to 1,160 days in 2023. About 54% of people held in Alaska jails and prisons last year were there to await trial or, in a smaller number of cases, to await sentencing. That's up from just 30% in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Earlier coverage: Hundreds of people charged with domestic violence, child abuse or DUIs are walking free in Anchorage] A courts spokesperson, Rebecca Koford, said by email that the state "is well aware of the issues with case backlogs and has been actively working to improve time to disposition." Koford cited an Anchorage presiding judge's orders limiting when postponements may be used, as well as new training for judges on managing case flows. "We have made inroads in that direction," she said, "but it takes time and continues to be exacerbated by the low number of attorneys who are able to handle complex criminal cases." Some defense attorneys request pretrial delays to cope with overwhelming caseloads. According to the Alaska court system, Hurley's current attorney, Rex Butler, represents defendants in at least 375 active cases, for example. (In an interview, the attorney said he sometimes hires other lawyers to help with that workload and noted that most cases do not require a jury trial.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys also can employ delays as a tactic, increasing the odds their clients will walk free as the prosecution's case ages. Defendants sit in jail or live on monitored release pending trial, but the wait can avert a heftier prison sentence. The thought was captured in a 2017 email from a state-appointed defense attorney to his client, later made public in a court proceeding. "Time is generally a friend to a defendant," assistant public advocate Jim Corrigan wrote. "Witnesses may get into trouble or their recollections may fade, which could work to your benefit." The defendant had been questioning why his lawyer asked to delay his sexual assault case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You should not be in any hurry to take these cases to trial," Corrigan replied. Corrigan did not respond to a recent request for comment. Terrence Haas, a former judge who oversees public defenders in Alaska, said that any lawyer who believes a delay is necessary or would benefit a client's case is "bound by the ethics of their profession and duty of loyalty to their client to request a continuance." But one person has the power to say no to such requests: the judge. Records show Alaska judges routinely agree to such requests even after years of delays. These preventable failures have existed for more than a decade. What's more, everyone saw it coming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Repeated warnings Victims advocates in Alaska have raised alarms about pretrial delays over and over again, largely without impact. "It is not unusual for felony cases to take 2 to 3 years before victims see their case go to trial or result in a plea agreement," the Alaska Office of Victims' Rights wrote in 2014. Few judges were giving serious consideration to victims who asked them to speed up the process. The agency issued similar warnings as the years went by: 2015: Judges often allowed 20 or more status meetings before forcing the two sides to go to trial. 2016: The most common victim complaint is "pretrial delays allowed by the courts." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2017: The maxim that "justice delayed is justice denied" could not be more true than for victims of crime in Alaska. "Victims cannot heal or find closure when the wounds caused by the offender are constantly reopened by a prolonged court case. Victims are often held hostage to the system for far too long and in violation of their rights as victims." The victims' rights office laid blame for the delays mostly with judges, particularly judges in Anchorage. One week in 2018, the agency watched four Anchorage Superior Court judges hold pretrial hearings for 181 criminal cases. The judges let 161 be delayed up to two months. In most cases, the victims' rights office said, neither the defense attorney nor the prosecutor gave a good reason for the delay. Not once did a judge ask what the victim wanted, the report said. The next year, the Office of Victims' Rights accused Anchorage judges of being enablers. "It is up to the judge to control the docket, to adhere to standing court orders, to follow the law and to protect victims' rights as well as defendants' rights," the agency wrote. "Generally, what is seen is more of a rubber stamping of such requests." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A common delay tactic during the pandemic, known as the "off-record continuance," allowed attorneys to delay cases by email and skip court. But it persisted after courts reopened. Records show judges in 2024 allowed off-record continuances in dozens of cases, ranging from a 4-year-old felony assault to a 5-year-old sexual assault to a 6-year-old car theft. (The Anchorage Daily News and ProPublica delivered questions to all Anchorage Superior Court judges by email and in hard copy, receiving a response from only two judges, who both said they mostly hear civil cases and rarely preside over criminal trials.) Crime survivors pay a price for the inaction. They take time off work or pay for day care to attend hearings, advocates note. Victims fight to calm the pit in their stomachs before stepping into a courtroom, only to find the event is canceled. The Office of Victims' Rights in May filed paperwork on behalf of the alleged victim in a 2017 sexual abuse case, demanding the court honor the woman's right to "timely disposition" under the Alaska Constitution. The agency asked Superior Court Judge Jack McKenna to hold a trial in June so the woman and her family could move on with their lives. The judge delayed the case once again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKenna did not respond to an email or questions delivered to his courthouse mailbox. But Koford, the court spokesperson, said the trial in the 2017 case had to be delayed because the defense attorney was scheduled to appear in another trial. Other delays were because the prosecutor was unavailable. Koford said the case illustrated Alaska's shortage of experienced attorneys to handle major felonies, which often leaves judges with a choice between postponing a trial and forcing one with unprepared attorneys, unavailable witnesses or an incomplete examination of evidence. "A victim's right to a speedy trial is important," Koford said, "but it is also important to try a case correctly the first time." One judge has publicly blamed backups on lawmakers and governors, whom he accused of skimping on money for public defenders. Fairbanks Superior Court Judge Michael MacDonald was presiding over a case in 2019 involving the beating death of an Alaska Native woman in a Yukon River village. It was less than 2 years old and about to go before a jury. The defendant admitted to the killing. Then the defendant's state-appointed attorney requested a delay, saying she had been juggling 200 cases at once, felt burned out and couldn't ethically move forward with a trial. (A 1998 audit for the Alaska Legislature said public defenders can "ethically" handle no more than 59 cases in a 60-hour workweek.) MacDonald described the request as a sign of dysfunction. "The state of Alaska's criminal justice system is operating on the fringes," MacDonald wrote, "barely able to protect against the deprivation of fundamental rights, barely able to respond in a professionally responsible manner" to violent crime. He went ahead and ordered the trial postponed. The defendant eventually pleaded guilty to second-degree murder under an agreement with the prosecution. (The judge has since retired but declined to be interviewed for this story, saying he still occasionally fills in for other judges and presides over cases.) Seven years, no trial At the December sexual assault trial for Hurley in Anchorage, few people were more eager to see the case concluded than Eva Foxglove. The 53-year-old mother was the one who called 911 during the attack. Foxglove didn't know the women, but she said she had been sexually assaulted before and knew they might not be able or willing to testify when the time arrived. "I have to come and do this for them," she told the jury. The events Foxglove watched unfold in 2017 had their origins shortly after Hurley's release from jail on a previous sexual assault charge. Accused of sexually assaulting a woman in her home, Hurley was acquitted at trial, walked out of jail and wrote on Facebook July 13, 2017, "What's up free at last." Two days later, he showed up at an Anchorage soup kitchen, where he met the two women he was later charged with attacking, according to a police report. The report said the three of them walked to the Delaney Park Strip. One alleged victim told police Hurley said she was beautiful and tried to kiss her but that she turned her head and told him she was engaged to be married, the report said. Foxglove recalled in a recent interview that she was charging her phone at an outlet in the park. It was about 4 p.m. in the thick of tourist season, 68 degrees under a clear, bright sky. The women seemed to pass out after drinking from a half-gallon bottle, Foxglove said. She could see Hurley moving on top of one and then the other, she said. "I was like, 'What the fuck is he doing?'" Foxglove said. Shortly after she dialed 911, a police officer jogged up to Hurley and yanked him from one of the two women, the officer, now a sergeant, told jurors in December. Police later collected DNA matching Hurley's from the second woman's body and from the first woman's clothing. The case was assigned to Anchorage Superior Court Judge Kevin Saxby and given a trial date of Oct. 9, 2017. But that date came and went. Saxby and other judges agreed to delay the trial 50 times, most often at the request of Hurley's lawyers. One example: Hurley's attorney wanted to see the criminal records of the two alleged victims. Saxby did not respond to emailed and hand-delivered questions. Koford, the court system spokesperson, said judges generally do not comment on their actions for "fairness and due process reasons" and "cannot and do not comment on decision-making and reasoning in a case." One of the alleged victims was described in enough detail in police reports for the Daily News and ProPublica to track down additional information about her life. She lived unhoused and was listed in police reports as a victim in at least two prior sexual assault cases. The woman told officers that she had passed out and awoke to find Hurley on top of her, police records say. A charging document quoted her using the word "rape" to describe what happened. Unlike the arriving police officer, the woman could testify not only to sexual contact, but also her lack of consent. She never got the chance. A passerby found her body outside a public library in Anchorage on April 19, 2019, some time between Hurley's 19th pretrial delay and his 20th. Police said there was no evidence of a crime. At some other point during the long wait for Hurley's trial, the second woman died as well. Prosecutors had the DNA and witnesses who could establish sexual contact. But without the victims, prosecutors needed to show that they were incapacitated and therefore inherently incapable of agreeing to sex. The job fell largely to Foxglove. On the witness stand, she wore an oversized T-shirt and loose ponytail. "I've never been to court before," she told the jury. But she recounted the events from seven years ago clearly, with greater precision and consistency than she'd offered in an earlier interview with a reporter. When Butler, Hurley's defense attorney, challenged her statement that the two women were passed out rather than simply asleep she never flinched. She could tell when someone wasn't just napping but dead-to-the-world unconscious, she told the jury. "I was a drunk. I know what sleep is. When you want to sleep you lay down and go to sleep. But when you drink so much, you pass out," she said. "I know the difference, and I see." After seven years of delays, Hurley's attorney gave no opening statement and did not call any witnesses. The trial took five days, including two days of jury selection. The jurors returned their decision within two hours on Dec. 10: guilty on five of six felony sexual assault charges. As of Monday, the state court website indicated Hurley has not filed an appeal. In the defendant's favor Although the Hurley case ended in a conviction, delays have worked to the defendants' advantage in other Alaska criminal cases. A man held at Fairbanks Correctional Center for two years without a trial had his drug charges thrown out after asserting his attorney waived his speedy-trial rights violation without his consent. And since October, at least 10 pretrial inmates at the Goose Creek Correctional Center have filed petitions in federal court challenging their state detention. They allege the state violated their speedy-trial rights and appointed unreliable public defenders, saying they never signed forms saying they wanted to stop the 120-day countdown to a trial. Federal judges dismissed four of the petitions, while another six are awaiting a decision. Pretrial delays can lead to a reversal for prosecutors even if they've won a conviction. In a recent decision that could have far-reaching impact in Alaska, a man convicted of sexually abusing children succeeded in forcing the Superior Court to revisit his case. Police arrested Ralph Hernandez in 2011 after an 11-year-old girl told her friend about the alleged abuse. Prosecutors said he abused, tortured or sexually assaulted children from toddlers to teenagers. Over the seven years that it took the case to get to trial, Hernandez repeatedly voiced his demand for a speedy trial, often over the objections of his public defender. A jury convicted Hernandez of three counts of first-degree sexual abuse of a minor and one count of attempted second-degree sexual abuse of a minor. But Alaska's appeals court ruled in February that Hernandez had proven his pretrial delays were "presumptively prejudicial" and sent the case back to lower court for review. In the 1978 federal ruling that set the precedent for the Hernandez case, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made clear that states can't get away with violating speedy trial rights simply by blaming a shortage of public defenders or prosecutors. "A state government's allocation of resources plays a major role in creating congested dockets, and it is unfair to require defendants to bear the entire burden that results from the government's fiscal decisions," the court wrote. "There must be a point at which delay due to a congested docket becomes so unacceptable that by itself it violates the right to a speedy trial." Although defendants may object to endless delays, they can benefit from them as time eats away at the prosecution's case. "We as prosecutors are obligated to present evidence in court and persuade a jury beyond a reasonable doubt about what happened," said John Skidmore, Alaska deputy attorney general. "But when memories fade and people are less certain about what happened at some point in the past, that makes it more difficult for us to meet those burdens." Especially in cases of sexual violence, it's prosecutors who are in a race against time. Often the evidence rests on a survivor's word against an attacker's. Losing the alleged victim's testimony a likelier outcome each day without a trial can crush a prosecutor's odds of a conviction. It happened, a prosecutor said, in the case of Andre Corcoran. "What she deserved" The charges say Corcoran met his alleged victim, an unhoused woman taking cooking classes at a soup kitchen, shortly after moving to Alaska. The woman told police Corcoran seemed safe because he volunteered to clear kitchen tables. When Corcoran told her he had no place to stay, the woman offered to show him an abandoned tent. Inside, according to the charging document, Corcoran and the woman began kissing, but she said she felt uncomfortable and asked him to stop. The charging document says Corcoran admitted to holding her down and attempting to have sex as she screamed for help. A police report on Corcoran's arrest describes his subsequent interview with a detective. "I think women need to be raped," Corcoran told the detective, according to a transcript. The defendant said his only regret was not completing the act, the report said. A grand jury indicted Corcoran on Aug. 30, 2018, on felony sexual assault charges. He waited in jail as defense attorneys had the case delayed at least 11 times. Still, when it finally reached trial in late April, Corcoran's alleged victim was willing to testify despite suffering anxiety, a prosecutor later said. "She wanted to make sure that he was held accountable for what he did and that he wouldn't be able to do this again," prosecutor Betsy Bull told the court. Then the judge declared a mistrial. Corcoran's attorney said he wasn't told the alleged victim had a boyfriend at the time the assault was reported which the attorney said gave the woman a potential motive to lie and cover up consensual sex with another man. The prosecution was ready to give it a second try this fall, but as the new trial date approached, Corcoran's alleged victim died of severe burns after her tent caught fire. Bull said she was forced to offer a deal that let Corcoran plead guilty to a single count of felony assault. He would be sentenced to time served his years in jail awaiting trial and would not have to register as a sex offender. The prosecutor told the judge it was the best she could do. "It's not, from the state's perspective, because he didn't do it," Bull said. The courtroom was empty. No jury. No spectators. The judge asked the defendant if he wanted to say anything, and Corcoran stood. "I do feel bad about who I used to be," he said. "And I have made changes to who I want to be. I want to be a better person." Corcoran's attorney, Jaffer Khimani, said Corcoran's expression of remorse "was sincere to me." Khimani said he was unaware of something else that, according to a report filed by a police detective, his client imparted moments after. The report said Corcoran spoke to the court officer who escorted him to an elevator on his way to being set free. It quoted Corcoran saying something very different from what he'd told the judge about his actions: "She got what she deserved." LUFKIN, Texas (KETK) Angelina College in Lufkin has reportedly agreed to a $315,000 settlement with a former employee in a race discrimination lawsuit. Van Zandt County residents file lawsuit over threat posed by lithium battery storage facility Dr. Monica Peters-Clark, a Black woman and a longtime staff member who helped establish the colleges Office of Institutional Effectiveness, claims she was unfairly passed over for the position of executive director in favor of an unqualified white candidate. Her legal representatives at Hightower, Franklin and James, PLLC, in Nacogdoches argue that the hiring decision was discriminatory. Dr. Monica Peters-Clark. Courtesy of the Legacy Institute for Financial Education. Peters-Clark began her career at Angelina College in 2005 as the Learning Outcomes Coordinator and the Quality Enhancement Plan Coordinator. By 2007, she was made the colleges Coordinator of Institutional Effectiveness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, in 2017 she was laid off during a round of administrative restructuring. According to her lawsuit, after her position was eliminated, the college created a new position based on her old role. On Feb. 18, 2022, Angelina College posted a new position for executive director. Peters-Clark applied on Feb. 28 and the colleges search committee, including Angelina College president Dr. Michael Simon, interviewed a white candidate and not Peters-Clark. Court records show that Peters-Clark was only then interviewed after a trustee called Simon, stating the local Black community expected her to be considered for the role. Dr. Michael Simon. Courtesy of Angelina College. Peters-Clark was interviewed on March 10, however the white candidate was sent an offer on March 11, according to court records. Peters-Clark was informed she did not get the job on April 15 and she filed a formal grievance with the college on April 28. According to United States Magistrate Judge Christine L. Stetson, Peters-Clark got the impression that the college had someone else in mind for the position or that they didnt want to search for diverse candidates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peters-Clark went through the colleges grievance process but on May 24 the college notified her that they had found no violations of their equal opportunity policies. She then filed an employment discrimination complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division, which was dismissed in April 2023. Then on June 21, 2023, she filed her lawsuit against Angelina College to correct unlawful discrimination practices in the workplace based on race which have been engaged [by the college]. City of Trinity settles sexual harassment lawsuit with former police officer The trial was set to start November of 2024 but Peters-Clark and Angelina College decided to settle the lawsuit, meaning the case was dismissed before it reached a jury. A statement from Peters-Clarks representatives claimed that Simon tried to paint Peters-Clark and other former Black employees in a negative light by making false comments throughout the course of the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This historic settlement fully vindicates Dr. Peters-Clark. The fact is that Angelina College has had to spend $315,000 to fix a problem almost entirely created by President Simon. While we are pleased with this settlement and the message it sends, Dr. Peters-Clark and I would encourage the Angelina College Board of Trustees to continue to review this matter and hold President Simon accountable for his actions and inappropriate hiring practices. Despite President Simons conduct and this litigation, Dr. Peters-Clark has been and will continue to be a supporter of the college and the positive impact that it has on Lufkin and East Texas. Tanner Franklin with Hightower, Franklin and James, PLLC KETK News has contacted Angelina College several times for a comment but has not heard back. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Motherhood is entirely possible at the age 74for some birds at least. A Laysan albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) named Wisdom recently became the worlds oldest known breeding wild bird. According to the Pacific Region of the US Fish & Wildlife Service,, she returned to the Midway Atollor Kuaihelani in Hawaiianin December 2024 and began to interact with a new male partner. Wildlife officials then spotted what could be Wiscoms 60th egg. The egg should hatch sometime in February and is a good sign for birds that have been hit hard by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or bird flu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Especially in the landscape of highly pathogenic avian influenza, its exciting to have a species that is still propagating this long when theyre facing some pretty incredible odds, Jennifer M. Mullinax, a research ecologist from the University of Maryland tells Popular Science. Wisdom is also not alone in her longer reproductive window, which is shared by other species of wild birds. Humans are really more of the outliers as far as living longer than we can successfully reproduce, and there are several species that have a much longer runway for having their young. Who reproduces for 1,000 years? Deep-sea sponges They may look like an alien organism or some kind of giant plant, but sea sponges are part of the animal kingdom. While scientists are still learning more about their life spans, these deep-sea dwelling creatures can live incredibly long. A view of different species (sponges, crinoids, etc.) representing a deep ecosystem at 110m depth on September 24, 2019 off the French Guyana. CREDIT: Alexis Rosenfeld/Getty Images. Theyre colonial animals and some sponges are thought to have a lifespan as a colonial unit, in the order of thousands of years, Anne Clark, an evolutionary biologist and behavioral ecologist from Binghamton University in New York, tells Popular Science. And nobody says that theyre not reproducing in that time period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sponges reproduce sexually to add to the colony and keep it going. Some deep-sea sponges can grow up to 12 feet long, all of it showing signs of life. With their biological drive in mind, Clark says it is entirely possible that some deep-sea sponges are reproducing for thousands of years. [ Related: The tortoise, the myth, the legend: Jonathan turns 190. ] An elusive old shark Like deep-sea sponges, greenland sharks (Somniosus microcephalus) live in very cold and dark waters and can live upwards of 200 years. Because theyre living in really cold water most of these species grow very slowly, says Mullinax. So theyre not really reaching sexual maturity for a very, very long time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like some other shark species, they mate via internal fertilization and give live birth. However, unlike many other species that give live birth, their young is not attached to a placenta. Instead, their embryos survive off of a yolk sac. After reaching maturity, they potentially grow less than half an inch per year. Delaying implantationin bears A young Grizzly bear cub watches the commotion in the valley below as its mother forages for food on June 14, 2024. in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. CREDIT: Jonathan Newton/Getty Images. For carnivorous land mammals, bears have a fairly long reproductive window. Depending on the species, a female will have a little about every three or four years after turning between four and six years old. During breeding, their bodies also have a mechanism to encourage the offsprings survival. They have a delayed implantation of the egg, where it is fertilized sometime during the summer months and will wait months to implant. A bear can be sexually mature, breed, and get pregnant. But then, if the conditions arent right, they can reabsorb the implanted embryo, because they dont have enough nutrients to bring them to term, explains Mullinax. [ Related: Wild chimpanzees show signs of potential menopausea rarity in the animal kingdom. ] The grandmother hypothesis: whales, elephants, primates, and more While more rare, some animals other than humans can live long after their reproductive lives. These are often whales, elephants, or other matriarchal species where important knowledge is passed down to generations by females. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grandmother hypothesis is that somehow aged but non-reproductive animals are positively affecting the reproduction of a species just by their presence, explains Clark. A new born baby elephant is closely surrounded by its mother and aunts and uncles in the herd as they travel along the plains of the Kaudulla National Park. CREDIT: Dinouk Colombage/Moment via Getty Images. Older members of a group could share information critical to the animals survival. Studies have shown that older elephants and baboons can help younger members find water during times of drought. This is only open to certain kinds of animals that have long social lives, where their offspring are around and where dispersal doesnt break up families completely, says Clark. The R-Selectwhere every second counts On the other end of the spectrum are the various species that live by a classic R-Select. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In R-select species, theyre alive for maybe five days or five hours or five minutes, says Mullinax. They come into sexual maturity, they mate, they lay eggs, and they die. While mayflies in the larval stage can live for about a year, adult mayflies may only live for one day. Jellyfish and some rodents are also animals that have these short, reproductive driving lifecycles. This story is part of Popular Sciences Ask Us Anything series, where we answer your most outlandish, mind-burning questions, from the ordinary to the off-the-wall. Have something youve always wanted to know? Ask us. A federal judge ruled last month that a jury will evaluate whether a Denver police officer violated a man's First Amendment rights by knocking his cell phone onto the ground in retaliation for video recording. UPDATED, with Trump comment: With less than two weeks before Donald Trump takes office, Metas Mark Zuckerberg announced a series of changes to its content moderation practices on Facebook and Instagram, including ending fact-checking and other restrictions. The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech, Zuckerberg said in a video posted this morning. So were going back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The changes are just the latest effort by Meta given that Trump and his allies have targeted the platform and Zuckerberg himself. Following Trumps reelection, Zuckerberg met with the president-elect. Last week, Metas chief global affairs officer, Nick Clegg, announced his departure, to be replaced by Joel Kaplan, a Republican who has been sympathetic to claims that the platform has suppressed conservative voices. Kaplan appeared on Fox & Friends, a show Trump watches, this morning to announce the changes. Zuckerberg said that the fact checking would be replaced by a more comprehensive community note system, similar to one that has been deployed by Elon Musk since he purchased Twitter, later renamed X. Zuckerberg also suggested that Meta would work with the Trump administration to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also unveiled plans to base the U.S. content review teams in Texas, rather than in California, where there is less concern about the bias in our teams. Kaplan and Zuckerberg each held Trump up as a champion of free expression, but did not mention the president-elects legacy of attacks on news media, his calls for broadcast networks to lose their licenses for content he disfavors or his numerous lawsuits against legacy outlets. Trumps incoming FCC chair, Brendan Carr, has long railed against what he sees as content moderation practices that sideline voices on the right, labeling tech platforms as a censorship cartel. He has signaled that the agency would pursue policies that would impose restrictions on how political-oriented content is moderated. Following Zuckerbergs announcement, Carr posted a GIF of Jack Nicholson. Carr and other Trump allies have also attacked firms that monitor accuracy. That includes NewsGuard, which rates news sites on their reliability. While NewsGuard has given higher scores to outlets like Fox News and The New York Times, one outlet that scored low was Newsmax, which frequently features Trump-friendly lawmakers and allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tech platforms in general have pushed back on the idea that there is systemic censorship of voices on the right, as some of its prominent figures railed against restrictions related to Covid and election integrity. But in his video message, Zuckerberg said that we built a lot of complex systems to moderate content, but the problem with complex systems, they make mistakes, even if they accidentally censor just 1% of posts, thats millions of people, and weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship. Zuckerberg also said that filters that scan for policy violations will be changed. Now were going to focus those filters on tackling illegal and high severity violations, and for lower severity violations, were going to rely on someone reporting an issue before we take action. The problem is that the filters make mistakes, and they take down a lot of content that they shouldnt. More specifically, Zuckerberg said that they would simplify our content policy and get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse. Almost a year ago, Zuckerberg appeared before a Senate committee at a hearing on child exploitation online, including parents who said that their children viewed content that led to harmful mental health impacts, including suicide. At one point, he turned to parents in the crowd and said, Im sorry for everything youve gone through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the Kids Online Safety Act, but amid intense lobbying by Meta and other platforms, the legislation stalled in the House. While Zuckerberg said that Meta would still be focused on moderating legitimately bad stuff like drugs, terrorism and child exploitation, he acknowledged that such content may still get through. He said that the reality is that this is a trade off. It means were going to catch less bad stuff, but well also reduce the number of innocent peoples posts and accounts that we accidentally take down. Zuckerberg also said that Meta would be bringing back civic content. For a while the community asked to see less politics because it was making people stressed, so we stopped recommending those posts. But it feels like were in a new era now, and were starting to get feedback that people want to see this content again. So were going to start phasing this back in to Facebook, Instagram and Threads, while working to keep the communities friendly and positive. Facebook and Instagram have grappled with how to handle the widespread dissemination of false information and lies on their platforms, particularly when it comes from public officials. Trumps Meta accounts were suspended following the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol, given his praise for those who engaged in violence. Those accounts were later reinstated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just last fall, Trump threatened to send Zuckerberg to prison for life, claiming that he steered his social media platforms against him in the 2020 election. But following Trumps reelection, Meta has donated $1 million to his inaugural fund, while the tech giant on Monday announced that a key Trump supporter, UFCs Dana White, would be joining its board. At a press conference this morning, Trump said that he watched Kaplans appearance on Fox News and I think they have come a long way, Meta, Facebook. Trump also was asked whether he thinks Zuckerberg was directly responding to the threats that you have made to him in the past. Probably, Trump said. Meta is facing an antitrust trial in April, in a lawsuit that was brought by the Federal Trade Commission during Trumps first term. The lawsuit alleges that Metas acquisition of Instagram and WhatsApp have created a social media monopoly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accountable Tech, a public interest group that has pushed for tech giants to take greater steps to police content on its platforms, condemned Zuckerbergs announcement. Its executive director Nicole Gill called it preemptive capitulation. It would be cringey if it werent so calculated, she said. Extremism is foundational to Metas business model, which depends on engagement to drive business revenue. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Senate District 60 candidate Mohamed Jama's residency is being challenged. Campaign photo. Minnesota Democrats are already embroiled in an ugly battle for control of the state House after a judge ruled one of their newly elected members was ineligible to hold office for not living in the district he won. Now, another Democratic candidate faces a residency challenge, but this time in the race for the Senate District 60 seat to replace former Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic, who died of cancer last month, leaving the Senate tied 33-33. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mohamed Jama, a potential top contender in a crowded special election to represent the safely Democratic district in northeast Minneapolis and Cedar-Riverside, likely does not meet the residency requirements according to state voter data. Sonia Neculescu, a former DFL House candidate and resident of the district, filed a challenge to his candidacy with the state Supreme Court on Monday alleging Jama registered to vote on Election Day in neighboring Senate District 63 in November. Under state law, candidates must live in the district theyre running to represent for at least six months prior to the election. Jama did not immediately return a voicemail seeking comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jama listed his address as private on his filing for candidacy, although all candidates must sign an affidavit that they meet the residency requirements. According to Neculescus challenge, the Senate DFL Caucus campaign reached out to Jamas campaign manager, Jacob Hooper, on Jan. 2 to confirm that he met the residency requirements. Hooper replied that Jama has lived in Senate District 60 for six months but is not registered to vote there. He did vote in 2024 but used old address because this was during process of moving, Hooper wrote, according to the challenge. But that defense raises the prospect that Jama illegally voted where he doesnt live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neculescu is asking the state Supreme Court to declare Jama ineligible to hold the office and direct the county to not print ballots with his name on them. The dispute over Jamas residency could delay the special primary scheduled for Jan. 14 and the special election for Jan. 28, though challenging Jamas residency before the party endorsement and primary election saves Democrats from potentially repeating the embarrassing mistake they made in Johnsons race of backing an ineligible candidate. Jamas campaign website describes him as a community leader, passionate grassroots organizer and relentless housing advocate. Before running for office, he co-founded the Cedar Riverside Youth Council and served on the boards of the West Bank Community Coalition and the Neighborhood Revitalization Program. In 2014, he was part of a brawl at a DFL caucus event in Cedar-Riverside that sent then-party activist Ilhan Omar to the hospital with a concussion, according to a MinnPost story from the time. Jama alleged Omar slapped him, which Omar denied, saying a group of women attacked her. Cataloochee Ski Area is getting a new chairlift. The mountain located about an hour of west of Asheville, North Carolina has purchased a new chairlift from Doppelmayr USA to replace the Omigosh double. Once installed, the 2,800 foot quad chairlift will bring riders 740 feet to the midpoint and summit of the mountain. SkiSoutheasts Mike Doble broke the news in a blog post on Sunday. Construction is set to begin in May 2025. It should be completed for the start of next season. Cataloochee Ski Area's trail map. Photo: Cataloochee Ski Area Cataloochee has been around since 1961, and was the first ski area in North Carolina, when it opened. It is perhaps most famous for being the mountain that snowboarder Zeb Powell learned to ride on. Though his riding has taken him everywhere from Vermont to Aspen to Japan, he returns to North Carolina every season, and tries to hit all of the mountains before the brief season in the region comes to an end. As of January 7, 2024, Cataloochee had 15 of 18 trails open, and was spinning all five lifts. It was benefitting from the cold temperatures that have swept across the east coast, as natural snowfall was in the forecast. The upgrade could come at a time in which Cataloochee feels it needs to step things up to compete with its newest neighbor. Hatley Pointe Resort is located 69 miles northeast of Maggie Valley along the Tennessee border, and recently opened this season after rebranding itself. The ski area in Mars Hill used to be called Wolf Laurel, then Wolf Ridge, and it was gritty and aging. Then Deborah Hatley and her husband David purchased it with the intent of turning into a boutique resort. Thats something the region doesnt have, particularly in that part of the state. Across the state in North Carolinas High Country, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain Resort have also gotten new lift additions in the last couple of years. This season is a unique one for the folks in western North Carolina in particular, due to the damage that was caused in the region by Hurricane Helene in the fall. As of January 7, 2025, there are 103 verified storm-related deaths in North Carolina alone due to the storm. Hundreds of business were shuttered, and a region that was already experiencing an increase in homelessness has been battling an increase since the storm. Related: From North Carolina Hills to X Games Gold: The Zeb Powell Story PARIS (AP) When Charlie Hebdo cartoonist Coco thought back and drew for a new documentary about the slaughter she survived 10 years ago at the French satirical journal, the memories that streamed from her marker pen were all black. Black barrels of the guns that the al-Qaida-linked gunmen used to mow down 12 people, decimating Charlie's staff of cheeky cartoonists who reveled in their right to lampoon all and sundry and poked fun at Islamic extremism with caricatures of the Muslim Prophet Muhammad. The black hoods that the killers wore as they sprayed Charlie's Paris offices with bullets and then rejoiced outside, yelling: We avenged the Prophet Muhammad. We killed Charlie Hebdo! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the darkness that, in the immediate aftermath, seemed to engulf all of France, shaken to the core by the horror and the dawning realization that the bloodshed had profoundly changed the country, scarring it forever. The Charlie attack was just a first blow As France was reeling from the attack, terror struck again. With a massive police manhunt closing in on brothers Cherif and Said Kouachi, cornering the Charlie Hebdo killers in the industrial zone of a town northeast of Paris, accomplice Amedy Coulibaly, armed with an assault rifle, pistols and explosives, stormed a kosher grocery store in Paris, killing four people and taking others hostage. You are Jews and French, the two things I hate the most, he told his hostages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, all three attackers died in near-simultaneous police raids. I am Charlie" In its pain, France came together. The weekend after the attacks, millions marched in rallies of unity across the country. Paris boulevards and squares filled with more than a million people, including dozens of world leaders who walked arm-in-arm. Marchers held up placards reading Je Suis Charlie I am Charlie a slogan that caught like wildfire, even overseas at rallies held from Berlin to Bangkok. Mourners also held up pens, symbolizing how the killings drove home, for many, the value of free speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charlie bloodied but not bowed Charlie has lived on, continuing to amuse and anger readers with its irreverence. INDESTRUCTIBLE! roared the headline of its edition Tuesday that marked the 10-year anniversary of the Jan. 7, 2015, assault in inimitable Charlie fashion. Inside, under the headline yes, we can laugh about God, especially if he exists, the weekly journal published four pages of drawings from cartoonists who responded to its international call last year for the funniest and meanest caricature about God. Ten years on, Charlie Hebdo is still here, its director and cartoonist Riss, who was wounded in the attack, wrote in an editorial. So, too, are the causes of the drama and the determination of the journals members. Austin police are searching for a person suspected of killing a man on Saturday at a Southeast Austin homeless encampment and then lighting his body on fire to cover up the crime. The victim has not been identified but was a homeless white or Hispanic male who possibly went by the nickname "JT," according to a Monday news release from the Austin Police Department. The killing is being investigated as Austin's first homicide of 2025. The news release said police officers responded to reports of a fire at a "transient camp" at about 3:50 a.m. Saturday in the green belt area near 1704 Nelms Drive. At the scene, officers and Austin firefighters discovered the body of a "clearly deceased man" in the same area as a tent that had been "consumed" by fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An autopsy the next day revealed wounds on the victim's body from "sharp force injuries," the release said, adding that "The fire is believed to have been an attempt to cover up the murder." Police are asking the public for help identifying both the suspect and the victim. Anyone with information can call 512-974-TIPS. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Austin police searching for suspect who killed, burned homeless man Maine Deputy Attorney General Christopher Taub outside the U.S. Federal Appeals Court in Boston on Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo by Eesha Pendharkar/ Maine Morning Star) Two religious schools from Maine argued in federal court on Tuesday against the states anti-discrimination law, which they say infringes on their constitutional right to free exercise of religion. To what extent Maine can allow religious schools to follow their practices many of which uphold traditional Christian values and can be inherently exclusionary to LGBTQ+ students or students practicing other religions while protecting the rights of all students will be determined by federal judges in the coming months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can a state that has an anti-discrimination law make that apply to everyone, or are religious organizations going to get an exemption from that? asked Christopher Taub, Maines deputy attorney general who is representing the state in the trial. Most people, most taxpayers, would not want their funds to be used for purposes of discrimination. And so the question is, can states stop that from happening or not? And I think the decisions that we get in these cases might help answer that. Appellants say Supreme Court precedent protects against exclusion Crosspoint Church, which runs Bangor Christian Schools, and St. Dominic Academy in Auburn appealed in separate cases heard back-to-back in the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in Boston. Citing several Supreme Court decisions, including one in 2022 that allowed religious schools to be eligible for public funds, they said the states educational nondiscrimination provisions create what they described as a chilling effect, that in effect exclude religious schools from a state program that allows private schools to receive public education funding in cases where mostly rural students without a local public school can opt in to another school or district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The First Amendment actually does protect religious organizations from the very activity that the state of Maine is trying to impose upon them, said Jeremy Dys, attorney for Crosspoint Church from the First Liberty Institute, a national religious freedom organization. What we want is not to be penalized for the exercise of religious beliefs. Both appellants asked for a reversal of a 2024 U.S. District Court decision to allow Maine to apply its Human Rights Act which prohibits discrimination on the basis of protected classes, including race, color, sex, sexual orientation (which includes gender identity and expression), among other categories to all K-12 private schools accepting public funds. Neither school has applied for the program because they said doing so would allow the state to scrutinize their religious practices. For example, under the Maine Human Rights Act, Bangor Christian Schools practice of not admitting gay or trans students, or expelling students for premarital sex, would violate the law. For St. Dominics, it would mean if a student who refuses to pray three times a day or attend mass is denied admission, that student could seek protection by filing a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission. Also, teachers wouldnt be able to say that their faith does not allow them to use students preferred pronouns, or they risk being investigated under the Maine Human Rights Act, according to Adele Keim from Becket, the law firm representing St. Dominics that fights religious liberty cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Non-discrimination law is important for everybody, she said. But as important as it is, it cant be used to deprive religious believers of their rights. If the appeals court does not rule in favor of the religious schools, Dys said the case may have to return to the U.S. Supreme Court, which currently has a conservative majority, if thats what it takes to make sure that these religious organizations are treated fairly and equitably. State argues cases are premature The state of Maine argued Tuesday that the cases are premature, since neither religious school that appealed has yet applied for funding and so does not know exactly how Maines anti-discrimination law would impact their practices. It is also possible to comply with state law as a religious school, Taub said, as evidenced by Cheverus High School in Portland, which has been approved to accept public funds for students for years, and has not had to face any complaints or investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the arguments appellants focused on was the general applicability of the law, which came under question since Maine also allows rural students to choose out-of-state private schools, which Keim pointed out dont have to adhere to Maines Human Rights Act. However, out of the 4,500 students statewide that use the tuition reimbursement program, only two go to out-of-state schools, Taub said. Since Maine does not have jurisdiction over other states, it cant apply its nondiscrimination law to those institutions that receive tuition from Maine municipalities, regardless of whether those schools are religious. Finally, it is possible to strike down part of the Maine Human Rights Act that could be seen as stifling religious freedom without allowing religious schools to be completely exempt from following the law, Taub said. That would mean religious schools can reject students based on whether or not they align with the schools beliefs, but they would not be able to reject a student on the basis of sexual orientation or gender, for example. This particular provision that talks about allowing religious expression, if the court thinks thats problematic, instead of breaking down everything, it could just strike down that one provision, Taub said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE NEW YORK An appeals court judge on Tuesday rejected President-elect Donald Trumps last-ditch bid to halt his Friday sentencing for his criminal conviction in the Manhattan hush money case. In a one-page decision, Associate Justice Ellen Gesmer denied Trumps effort to postpone his sentencing while he appeals his conviction. Trump has asked the New York appeals court, known as the Appellate Division, First Department, to toss out the jurys May verdict, which found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business documents. In his appeal, he argued that he is protected by presidential immunity arguments that the trial judge, Justice Juan Merchan, rejected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gesmer appeared skeptical of arguments presented earlier Tuesday by Trump lawyer Todd Blanche. In particular, Gesmer questioned Blanches argument that presidential immunity should apply to a president-elect, making him or her ineligible to be sentenced.Do you have any support for the notion that presidential immunity extends to a president-elect? she asked Blanche. There has never been a case like this before, so no, he replied. Steven Wu, the lawyer who argued for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, told Gesmer that the theory of president-elect immunity is inconsistent with the idea that there is one president at a time. And Wu made the case that the timing of the sentencing, which is set to occur 10 days before the inauguration, is no ones fault but Trumps. Trump successfully persuaded Merchan to twice delay the sentencing from its originally scheduled date of July 11, 2024. We are here in large part because the lower court has bent over backward to accommodate Trumps wishes, Wu said. Merchan has indicated that he wont sentence the president-elect to prison given Trump is headed back to the White House in a matter of days. In her order, Gesmer said the appeals court will hear Trumps arguments on tossing the verdict on Jan. 21. All products featured on them. are independently selected by them. editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Conde Nast may earn an affiliate commission. Getty Images Sign up for The Agenda Them's news and politics newsletter, delivered to your inbox every Thursday. Apple CEO Tim Cook, one of the most influential gay men in tech, is personally forking over $1 million to Donald Trumps inaugural fund, according to a new report from Axios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unnamed sources reportedly told the outlet that Apple as a company is not expected to donate to Trumps inauguration. However, Cook believes the inauguration is a great American tradition and is donating to the inauguration in the spirit of unity. This isnt the first time that Cook has cozied up to the President-elect, who ran on campaign trail promises like banning gender-affirming care for minors at the federal level and enacting national Dont Say Gay policies in schools. According to a November Wall Street Journal article, the Apple CEO has spent years developing a personal relationship with Trump through carefully choreographed dinners and meetings. This approach has apparently led to a series of financial wins for Cook and Apple. In 2019, for instance, Cook successfully appealed to Trump after Apple faced a 10% tariff on all imports from China, where Apple still produces many of its products. Days after being personally lobbied by Cook, Trump granted a series of tariff exceptions for electronics, including the iPhone. The President-elect publicly praised Cooks efforts in 2019, saying, Thats why hes a great executive, because he calls me and others dont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2014, Cook became the first and only CEO of a Fortune 500 company to come out as gay, sharing the news in a Bloomberg article. Im proud to be gay, he wrote at the time. And I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me I will personally continue to advocate for equality for all people until my toes point up. In 2015, Cook was honored at the Human Rights Campaigns annual HRC National Dinner. That same year, he penned a Washington Post op-ed speaking out against so-called religious freedom laws and personally called on Arkansas governor to veto H.B. 1228, one such bill that would allow Arkansans to discriminate against the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized people in the name of religious freedom. In 2022, the Apple CEO expressed concern on X about the wave of anti-LGBTQ+ laws sweeping the United States, writing, As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am deeply concerned about laws being enacted across the country, particularly those focused on our vulnerable youth. (Of course, legislation that targets LGBTQ+ youth is exactly what Trump has said he intends to make federal law.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cook has previously publicly backed Democrats as well, donating to Barack Obamas 2008 presidential campaign and later raising funds for Hillary Clintons presidential 2016 campaign. But as Edge Media Network noted, Cook was one of the first American CEOs to congratulate Trump on his 2024 presidential election victory. All products featured on them. are independently selected by them. editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Conde Nast may earn an affiliate commission. Trump: It Will Be the Policy of the United States That There Are Only Two Genders The President-elect's vow to end the transgender lunacy was one of many statements made in a sprawling speech at Turning Point USAs AmericaFest conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congratulations President Trump on your victory! Cook wrote in a November 6 X post. We look forward to engaging with you and your administration to help make sure the United States to lead with and be fueled by ingenuity, innovation, and creativity. Cook is just one of many CEOs flocking to lend support to the incoming Trump administration in what some are calling pay to play for the president elect's influence, favor, and corporate tax relief. Jeff Bezos of Amazon, Mark Zuckerberg of Meta, and Sam Altman of OpenAI (also a gay CEO who previously supported Dems and even criticized Trump) have each donated $1 million to Trumps inauguration fund. In a foreboding era where capital interest plays an increasing role in government, the alleged flip-flopping of such CEOs signal what could be called a corporatocracy. Cook may have expressed concern for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, but he sidled up to a President-elect who has made anti-LGBTQ+ policy and rhetoric a foundation of his campaign. If this is what CEOs are up to before Trump is even in office, eyes remain on these companies to see what they'll do next in reaction to, or collaboration with, the president elect once he takes office. Get the best of whats queer. Sign up for Thems weekly newsletter here. Originally Appeared on them. Jan. 7SAN ANTONIO The Texas Agricultural Land Trust (TALT) is inviting Texas landowners to apply to participate in the Coastal Prairie Additive Conservation Partnership, a landmark initiative to preserve the state's rapidly disappearing coastal prairie ecosystems. The program is supported by funding from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), and it offers landowners the opportunity to conserve vital habitats through voluntary conservation easements and comprehensive conservation plans. The Texas Coastal Tallgrass Prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the nation, with only 100,000 acres remaining of what was once a vast and thriving landscape. This habitat loss has had devastating effects on wildlife populations, including the critically endangered Attwater's prairie chicken and other rare species. Through this partnership, TALT and its collaborators aim to safeguard these remaining grasslands while promoting regenerative agricultural practices that benefit both wildlife and working lands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TALT encourages interested landowners in the coastal region to apply during the next round of applications, which will be open from Jan. 15 through Feb. 28, 2025. The program offers financial and technical support to landowners dedicated to preserving their working lands and contributing to the conservation of the coastal prairie ecosystem. "We are thrilled to open this next round of applications and continue building partnerships with landowners who are stewards of Texas' coastal treasures," said Chad Ellis, TALT CEO. "By working together, we can make a lasting impact on the conservation of these irreplaceable landscapes." The Coastal Prairie Additive Conservation Partnership is supported by a coalition of conservation leaders and organizations, including: AgriCapture Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program Ducks Unlimited Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Grassroots Carbon Grazing Lands Coalition Gulf Coast Joint Venture International Crane Foundation Knobloch Family Foundation Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Foundation San Antonio Bay Partnership Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers The Climate Trust The Nature Conservancy U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Gulf Restoration Program Landowners interested in applying or learning more about eligibility can contact Darren Clark, TALT's Director of Land Conservation, at [email protected]. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional information about the Coastal Prairie Additive Conservation Partnership is available at https://www.txaglandtrust.org/latest-stories/talt-secures-25-million-to-enhance-coastal-prairie-conservation. TALT remains committed to its mission of preserving Texas's working lands. By participating in this initiative, landowners can play a vital role in protecting the coastal prairie ecosystem while ensuring their lands remain productive and sustainable for future generations. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Oklahomans are mourning after learning Sister Veronica Higgins of the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese of the Infant Jesus died according to The Catholic News Agency (CNA) Higgins died in a car accident Thursday, January 2. According to authorities, the accident happened on Northwest Expressway and State Highway 3, four miles south of Okarche. Patrol reports confirm that Higgins vehicle left the road, striking a tree and landing in a creek. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City paid tribute to Higgins shortly after the accident, on Facebook, writing, I have just learned of the sudden and unexpected death of Sister Veronica Higgins, CST, earlier today, Jan. 2. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Sister Veronica, the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese, and all who grieve her passing. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, the bishop continued, adding that funeral arrangements are pending and will be provided in the near future. Cold Tuesday, Snow Expected by Thursday. The Catholic News Agency (CNA) additionally reported that Higgins was the case manager at the Center of Family Love, a ministry to the intellectually disabled, in Okarche, according to the Okarche Warrior. On the website for her order, Higgins wrote that her favorite Bible verse is Micah 6:8, which reads: The Lord asks of us only this: to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with your God. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An archdiocesan spokesman told CNA that the sisters are still struggling with the loss. Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, issued the following statement on the passing of Sister Veronica Higgins. Sister Veronica Higgins was a beautiful person, a beacon of compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to her community. Sister Veronica devoted her life to lifting up those in needoffering her care and support without hesitation. Her work with Oklahomans with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including at the Center of Family Love, was a testament to her commitment to caring for and enhancing the lives of others. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom and the communities she served, shaping countless lives and inspiring all who knew her. Oklahoma has lost a remarkable woman, and her absence will be deeply felt. Funeral arrangements for Sister Veronica Higgins have been finalized as follows: Vigil Service Friday, Jan. 10 at 6:00 p.m. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Oklahoma City Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, Jan. 11 at 9:00 a.m. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be a reception in Connor Center after the Funeral Mass, followed by a private burial. Higgins was 74. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A federal judge earlier this month ordered a hearing to determine if a detainee in Aurora who has spent the last two years in immigration custody should be released during the remainder of her removal proceedings. TOPEKA (KSNT) City officials are taking aim at several areas in Topeka Tuesday to remove snow following a large winter storm. City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett announced in a press release on Jan. 7 that local road crews are focusing snow removal efforts in three areas. Workers hope to have these parts of the city cleared by the end of the morning on Jan. 7. Kansas state and city offices will not open in Shawnee County Tuesday, heres why Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garrett said workers are targeting zones one, two and three on the citys snow plan map for 2025. The map can be found below: Snow clearing is anticipated to take a few more days, Garrett said. We appreciate your patience and understanding as our crews work to clear the roads efficiently. Garrett said work crews will make a single pass through residential areas to ensure all the streets in Topeka are taken care of. However, local residents are encouraged to move vehicles off the streets to allow crews and their snowplows to work effectively. What are the snowfall totals for 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 sign prohibiting firearms is posted outside Little Rock City Hall on Sept. 26, 2024. (Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate) A Little Rock food bloggers effort to solicit food donations for a city emergency shelter on Monday fueled criticism of officials regarding preparations for expected wintry weather. Kevin Shalin who uses the online moniker The Mighty Rib referred a request for food donations from Vice Mayor Kathy Webb to his 62,000 Facebook followers. The message asked residents to give muffins, bananas and other goods to the Little Rock Department of Housing and the citys food commission, all to be used by those who seek refuge from the below-freezing temperatures at a city-operated shelter. Aaron Reddin, founder of the homelessness advocacy group The Van, swiftly commented on Shalins post and said the city had turned down nearly $3,000 in food he purchased for the shelters visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency shelters in Little Rock frequently open during inclement weather and are most often inhabited by people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. The city announced the opening of a warming shelter around noon on Sunday. The citys press release did not mention that food would be provided to those who stay in the shelter, or that the city needed food donations. The latest Point-in-Time Count, a nationwide tally that counts people experiencing homelessness on a single night, reported Central Arkansas had 773 people experiencing homelessness of some form in 2023. The nature of Shalins post seemed to spark confusion among online commenters, and they posed questions about the citys motives and its communication methods. Little Rock resident Michael Ferrara said, This whole thing is incredibly weird, and it would be almost comical how disorganized this has been if it werent for the fact people can and will die from all of this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During an interview with the Advocate on Monday afternoon, The Vans Reddin said buying food for the shelters inhabitants was an obvious first step after city officials indicated to him on Saturday that they would open a warming shelter. Reddin said he and The Vans volunteers immediately went into work mode, which included Reddin compiling a late-night Sams Club order on his phone, submitted under the blankets so he didnt keep his wife awake. You cant put 100-plus people in a room and not have food planned, especially if theyre talking about snow and ice on the back end of this weather event being a possibility, Reddin said. Im getting all the food I can on the front end before the public freaks out. It was a major scramble for me to get that food so we could have it ready for Monday. But Reddin said city officials didnt tell him they were working on their own food plan until mid-morning on Sunday, too late for Reddin to cancel his own order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city didnt accept the food Reddin ordered, but Reddin said the food would instead be delivered to people braving the freezing temperatures at area encampments. Its going to get eaten, but theres no reason why it couldnt have just gone to the damn shelter and been used as what theyre asking for. Thats what I bought it for, Reddin said. In an email on Monday, city spokesperson Aaron Sadler said Reddin was asked not to provide food for the shelter on Sunday because the citys chief homelessness officer had already made preparations. We asked The Van instead to assist with transportation, and Mr. Reddin said he would also donate blankets, Sadler said. There are no other agreements, formal or informal, between the City and The Van at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sadler also said that any questions about donations or supplies for the remainder of the week should be directed to Matthew DeSalvo, the citys first chief homelessness officer who was hired in June 2024. DeSalvo also serves as the shelter manager. sheltering plan Though Reddin said he was unaware of any written plan the city had for emergency shelters, Sadler provided a copy of an undated plan to the Advocate Monday afternoon. The plan names those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity as the target population for emergency shelters and states that select city employees will staff the shelter and that local churches will provide food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meal times listed in the plan are 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., though the current shelters schedule has it closed during the day and only open from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. Sadler said the plan will be adjusted as needed, and it is a work in progress as the first one created under the chief homelessness officer role. In a previous city plan, dated Dec. 13, 2022, The Van was listed as the sole local service provider to operate temporary shelters. In the old plan, the provider was also responsible for providing food. Webb, who was mentioned in Shalins social media post, was unavailable on Monday. Public perception While Shalins post helped spread information about the shelter, some commenters, like Ferrara, said it made the citys communication methods seem disorganized and dishonest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ferrara, 33, is a self-described advocate for the homeless, and he said he had spent days researching ways to help Little Rocks unhoused population with the incoming cold front. While he watched as surrounding cities announced their plans, he said he found no information from Little Rock officials. I dont remember getting the majority of this information until this morning, Ferrara said. Thats my big gripe. Were day two in this cold snap that could last 10 days, and were only now communicating what to do, where to go, we need more efforts to collect food when The Van bought nearly three grand of resources. Ferrara lives downtown, in Little Rocks SoMa district, in a two-bedroom apartment that he has heated with electric radiators since his gas utility became too expensive for him to afford about two years ago, he said. Because of this, he is particularly in tune to the weather, he said. Ferrara said he often chats with the homeless population nearby, many of whom he has gotten to know well over the last five years. In 2023, he said his friend, Brian, died in a fire while trying to stay warm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would have spent my last dollar putting him in a hotel room, but he found an abandoned home, set a fire to keep himself warm, passed out and the fire consumed the entire house, Ferrara said. Since that moment, I just dont have any patience for this issue. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX He said he also knows that getting from point A to point B can take someone experiencing homelessness all day. With the citys shelter announcement coming on Sunday, Ferrara said many people in need likely didnt know a warm refuge was available. The way that the flow of information works for folks who dont have smartphones, who dont have reliable Wi-Fi access, its so much slower, he said. To announce things hours in advance yeah, you and I can take that information, share it, and everybody in our circle will see it but homeless people dont follow The Mighty Rib, a food blog for restaurants that wont even let homeless people in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ferrara said the announcement should have come earlier and from an official source. Turbulent past Little Rock officials typically open the Dunbar Community Center located at 1001 W. 16th St. as an emergency shelter when inclement weather occurs, and The Van often contributes to its operation. Even now, those needing transportation to the shelter can call (501) 955-3444 for a shuttle from a volunteer with The Van. The citys Sunday announcement came after several other surrounding cities in Central Arkansas had announced similar services. Reddin described Little Rocks effort as hasty. We have consistently opened our cold-weather shelters when needed to offer refuge to our unsheltered and others in need during freezing temperatures, Mayor Frank Scott Jr. said in the press release. We are able to do so through the leadership of our city team members and strong support from community partners like The Van and other organizations and volunteers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The press release said the shelter would be open until 9 a.m. Tuesday, and additional nights would be determined with updated weather forecasts. While the city and The Van have worked together in the past, Reddins interest in collaboration soured after the city prohibited tent distribution at a March 2024 event for the unsheltered population. Though Reddin told the Arkansas Times at the time that he wouldnt again work with the city, he said Monday he embarrassed [himself] on public television with a public plea to the city in hopes it would urge them to open an emergency shelter. When asked on Monday, Reddin said he would not partner with the city again in the future, though The Van would continue to provide its shuttling service to future shelters. Reddin said he is in the process of purchasing or constructing a permanent shelter space for The Van. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Arkansas Supreme Court building in Little Rock. (John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate) Only the full Arkansas Supreme Court can appoint members to the states judicial disciplinary commission, according to an opinion issued Monday. The opinion arose from disagreement over the powers of the chief justice. Although newly installed Chief Justice Karen Baker partly concurred in the opinion, her actions last week prompted her colleagues to declare that she cannot on her own appoint anyone to the commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice Courtney Hudson did not participate in the decision, but the unanimity of the six other jurists was deceptive. Justice Shawn Womack concurred but continued to hold his belief, first expressed in a 2021 decision, that the nine-member Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission is unconstitutional as it is currently structured. Baker unilaterally appointed three members to the commission on Jan. 1, the day she was sworn into office, according to the opinion. Her colleagues wrote: The Chief Justice did not notify, let alone consult, the court about those purported appointments, and the Chief Justice did not cite any provision granting her the unilateral authority to make such appointments. Nor does any such authority exist. Mondays opinion rendered Bakers appointments void. The court reappointed Circuit Judge Earnest Brown of Pine Bluff to a term expiring June 30, 2030, and appointed Circuit Judge Thomas Smith of Bentonville, replacing Court of Appeals Judge Cindy Thyer, and Circuit Judge Troy Braswell of Conway, replacing former Circuit Judge Mark Lindsay. Smiths term will expire in 2030 and Braswells in 2029, according to the opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baker partially dissented regarding Braswells appointment but did not indicate a reason. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Baker spurred a revolt among five justices last week by trying to fire 10 court employees, which resulted in an administrative order that she didnt have the authority to unilaterally fire the workers and saying she didnt consult with her fellow justices in doing so. Those employees returned to work on Monday, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported. In Mondays opinion, which did not indicate an author, the justices wrote that Amendment 66 to the Arkansas Constitution and state law clearly vest the Supreme Court as a whole with the responsibility for appointing three judges to the JDDC, and long-standing custom and practice confirm that we have acted accordingly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The opinion noted the chief justice can only unilaterally appoint someone to the disciplinary commission when a vacancy occurs midterm due to a commission members retirement, becoming no longer eligible or otherwise becoming unable to serve, and only then if the appointing authority [the full court] has failed to timely act. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Arkansas Health Secretary Renee Mallory (center) explains part of the maternal health improvement plan that Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (second from left) authorized in an executive order on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (Screenshot courtesy of Facebook livestream) Arkansas will direct $17 million in federal grant funds to improving maternal health care outcomes, the state Department of Human Services announced Monday in a news release. The Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model comes from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and provides funding and technical assistance to state Medicaid agencies with the goal of improving maternal health outcomes. The newest model, which launched Jan. 1, will focus specifically on aiding people enrolled in Medicaid and the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), both of which are administered by DHS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Dec. 1, nearly half of the 863,117 Arkansans on Medicaid were children (414,678), according to DHS data. About half of Arkansas births are covered by Medicaid, which serves pregnant Arkansans with incomes of up to 209% of the federal poverty level, but this coverage expires two months after birth. DHS applied for the TMaH grant in September after a strategic committee, which included DHS Secretary Kristi Putnam, issued a range of recommendations to improve Arkansas maternal health landscape. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders convened the committee via executive order in March 2024. Sanders expressed appreciation for the grant in Mondays news release, saying it will facilitate much of the rest of our work to increase the maternal care workforce, invest in technology and research to help new moms, and connect expecting moms with health care providers in all corners of the state. The 10-year TMaH program has a three-year pre-implementation phase and a seven-year implementation phase. Arkansas is among 14 states, plus the District of Columbia, that will participate in the program for the next decade, according to CMS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant has three main pillars, according to DHS: Access to care, infrastructure, and workforce capacity Quality improvement and safety Whole-person care delivery One of the specific investments planned in Arkansas with TMaH funds is improving technology that will help collect and share maternal health data, according to the news release. The strategic committees recommendations include several related to technological deficiencies and needs, including data collection, data reporting, and software. Two recommendations are the creation of online dashboards, one to track key maternal health indicator criteria and one to measure Medicaid eligibility determination and application processing for pregnant Arkansans. Another goal of the TMaH program is to increase access to telehealth care, doulas and community health workers, which also aligns with the strategic committees recommendations. The committee suggested developing a Medicaid reimbursement system for doulas and community health workers, as well as considering higher reimbursements for existing care providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TMaH funds will help DHS revamp its Medicaid reimbursement rates and payment structures, including a focus on incentive payments to providers whose patients have healthier outcomes, the news release states. DHS will also use the grant to connect medical professionals with nonprofits or faith-based organizations that serve low-income pregnant and postpartum Arkansans. The TMaH program involves implementing patient safety bundles, or maternal health care plans and best practices for providers to use in case of emergency. In 2022, Arkansas became the 48th state to join the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM), which creates these bundles. TMaH_Application_support_letters The existing maternal Medicaid landscape DHS application included letters of support from several entities, including all six of Arkansas members of Congress, ADH, the Arkansas Hospital Association, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Community Health Centers of Arkansas, the Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Cherokee Nation Health Services, Tyson Foods and Walmart, among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families also supported the states application for the grant and was very excited to hear that the state received funding to address barriers to maternal health care, Executive Director Keesa Smith-Brantley said in a statement. As we continue to grapple with having the [nations] highest maternal mortality rate, the third highest infant mortality rate and with nearly half of Arkansas counties being classified as maternal health deserts, this grant is a critical step to strengthening the maternal health infrastructure and improving outcomes for our mothers and our babies, Smith-Brantley said. Only 34 hospitals in 23 of Arkansas 75 counties have labor and delivery units, and five maternity wards have closed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. For months, Arkansas has been the only state that has taken no action to adopt the federal option of extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months after birth, according to KFF. Sanders and Putnam have said this expansion would be redundant and duplicative, since the state has other insurance coverage options for postpartum low-income Arkansans. The strategic committee did not recommend this policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2023 bill in the state Legislature would have created 12-month postpartum Medicaid coverage but did not advance due to cost concerns. Similar bills have been introduced for the legislative session that starts Jan. 13. Sanders proposed fiscal year 2026 state budget proposes $13 million for Medicaid to support the maternal health committees recommendations. In October, Putnam and state Medicaid Director Janet Mann, both of whom were on the committee, told lawmakers that almost 40% of postpartum Arkansans who qualified for Medicaid between July 1 and Sept. 30 were ineligible for Medicaid by 60 days after giving birth. As required by a 2024 law, DHS officials will report to lawmakers again this month about their efforts to enroll Medicaid-eligible postpartum Arkansans into another category before the 60-day deadline. Mann will be in charge of managing the TMaH grant, according to the news release, and DHS will coordinate the efforts with ADH and UAMS. Over the last year, we have directed significant resources to addressing gaps in care for pregnant women, new mothers, and babies, and we remain committed to finding solutions that will improve and save lives, Mann said in the release. This grant is an important next step, and I know that this project will be a key driver in helping Arkansas become a leader in maternal health. Arkansas Health Secretary Renee Mallory (center) explains part of the maternal health improvement plan that Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (second from left) authorized in an executive order on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (Screenshot courtesy of Facebook livestream) This story originally appeared on Arkansas Advocate. Arkansas will direct $17 million in federal grant funds to improving maternal health care outcomes, the state Department of Human Services announced Monday in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Transforming Maternal Health (TMaH) Model comes from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and provides funding and technical assistance to state Medicaid agencies with the goal of improving maternal health outcomes. The newest model, which launched Jan. 1, will focus specifically on aiding people enrolled in Medicaid and the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP), both of which are administered by DHS. As of Dec. 1, nearly half of the 863,117 Arkansans on Medicaid were children (414,678), according to DHS data. About half of Arkansas births are covered by Medicaid, which serves pregnant Arkansans with incomes of up to 209% of the federal poverty level, but this coverage expires two months after birth. DHS applied for the TMaH grant in September after a strategic committee, which included DHS Secretary Kristi Putnam, issued a range of recommendations to improve Arkansas maternal health landscape. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders convened the committee via executive order in March 2024. Sanders expressed appreciation for the grant in Mondays news release, saying it will facilitate much of the rest of our work to increase the maternal care workforce, invest in technology and research to help new moms, and connect expecting moms with health care providers in all corners of the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 10-year TMaH program has a three-year pre-implementation phase and a seven-year implementation phase. Arkansas is among 14 states, plus the District of Columbia, that will participate in the program for the next decade, according to CMS. The grant has three main pillars, according to DHS: Access to care, infrastructure, and workforce capacityQuality improvement and safetyWhole-person care delivery One of the specific investments planned in Arkansas with TMaH funds is improving technology that will help collect and share maternal health data, according to the news release. The strategic committees recommendations include several related to technological deficiencies and needs, including data collection, data reporting, and software. Two recommendations are the creation of online dashboards, one to track key maternal health indicator criteria and one to measure Medicaid eligibility determination and application processing for pregnant Arkansans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another goal of the TMaH program is to increase access to telehealth care, doulas and community health workers, which also aligns with the strategic committees recommendations. The committee suggested developing a Medicaid reimbursement system for doulas and community health workers, as well as considering higher reimbursements for existing care providers. The TMaH funds will help DHS revamp its Medicaid reimbursement rates and payment structures, including a focus on incentive payments to providers whose patients have healthier outcomes, the news release states. DHS will also use the grant to connect medical professionals with nonprofits or faith-based organizations that serve low-income pregnant and postpartum Arkansans. The TMaH program involves implementing patient safety bundles, or maternal health care plans and best practices for providers to use in case of emergency. In 2022, Arkansas became the 48th state to join the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM), which creates these bundles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TMaH_Application_support_letters The existing maternal Medicaid landscape DHS application included letters of support from several entities, including all six of Arkansas members of Congress, ADH, the Arkansas Hospital Association, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Community Health Centers of Arkansas, the Arkansas Minority Health Commission, Cherokee Nation Health Services, Tyson Foods and Walmart, among others. Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families also supported the states application for the grant and was very excited to hear that the state received funding to address barriers to maternal health care, Executive Director Keesa Smith-Brantley said in a statement. As we continue to grapple with having the [nations] highest maternal mortality rate, the third highest infant mortality rate and with nearly half of Arkansas counties being classified as maternal health deserts, this grant is a critical step to strengthening the maternal health infrastructure and improving outcomes for our mothers and our babies, Smith-Brantley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only 34 hospitals in 23 of Arkansas 75 counties have labor and delivery units, and five maternity wards have closed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. For months, Arkansas has been the only state that has taken no action to adopt the federal option of extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months after birth, according to KFF. Sanders and Putnam have said this expansion would be redundant and duplicative, since the state has other insurance coverage options for postpartum low-income Arkansans The strategic committee did not recommend this policy. A 2023 bill in the state Legislature would have created 12-month postpartum Medicaid coverage but did not advance due to cost concerns. Similar bills have been introduced for the legislative session that starts Jan. 13. Sanders proposed fiscal year 2026 state budget proposes $13 million for Medicaid to support the maternal health committees recommendations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, Putnam and state Medicaid Director Janet Mann, both of whom were on the committee, told lawmakers that almost 40% of postpartum Arkansans who qualified for Medicaid between July 1 and Sept. 30 were ineligible for Medicaid by 60 days after giving birth. As required by a 2024 law, DHS officials will report to lawmakers again this month about their efforts to enroll Medicaid-eligible postpartum Arkansans into another category before the 60-day deadline. Mann will be in charge of managing the TMaH grant, according to the news release, and DHS will coordinate the efforts with ADH and UAMS. Over the last year, we have directed significant resources to addressing gaps in care for pregnant women, new mothers, and babies, and we remain committed to finding solutions that will improve and save lives, Mann said in the release. This grant is an important next step, and I know that this project will be a key driver in helping Arkansas become a leader in maternal health. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Arkansas Advocate is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Arkansas Advocate maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sonny Albarado for questions: info@arkansasadvocate.com. GHENT, WV (WVNS) Almost 62,000 customers in West Virginia and Virginia are without power due to power outages caused by heavy snow and ice. According to Appalachian Powers Storm Response Update press release, around 61,900 Appalachian Power customers are without power in West Virginia and Virginia as of 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 due to downed power lines, fallen trees, and dangerous road conditions after heavy snow and ice from a winter storm on Sunday, January 5, 2025 and Monday, January 6, 2025. StormTracker59 Power Outage Map Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 27,300 customers are without power in West Virginia, and 34,600 in Virginia. In West Virginia, areas with the worst damage included Mercer, Summers, Clay, Lincoln, and Wayne counties, and in areas with the worse damage in Virginia included Amherst, Bedford, Campbell, Roanoke, and Franklin counties. The press release stated that 475 spans of downed wire, 80 broken poles, 65 damaged cross arms, and 30 transformers in need of repair were found by workers, and that there are around 1,723 locations in the Appalachian Power service area that need repairs. Estimated restoration times for those without power includes: Large amounts of ice and snow, as well as low temperatures, can result in fallen trees and limbs, as well as downed power lines and utility poles. The cold weather could cause line overload difficulties when trying to restore power for a large number of customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the storm response update, almost 6,000 Appalachian Power personnel are working to restore power, as well as line mechanic crews from AEP Ohio, Indiana and Michigan Power, Alabama, North Carolina and South Carolina. West Virginia Department of Transportation advises caution for people traveling on roadways after winter storm Essential public locations such as 911 call centers, fire and police stations, hospitals, and water treatment plants receive priority when it comes to power restoration, followed by repairs to large amounts of customers in a short amount of time before moving to restore power to smaller amounts of customers. Power is restored for businesses and individual homes last, and can take longer than other repairs. Appalachian Power advised people to stay away and keep pets and kids away from downed power lines, and to avoid debris that is within ten feet of a fallen power line. They also encouraged people to unplug large appliances to protect them when the power is turned back on, as well as refuel heaters, lamps, and generators outside, and away from any sparks or flames. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the press release, Appalachian Power recommended that people to not use heaters, lanterns, or fuel-fired stoves unless there is proper ventilation, and to not burn charcoal indoors due to it releasing carbon monoxide. Stick with 59News for more updates on power restoration in your area! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. Suffolk County Police told the Daily News Monday night there was an arrest made in the case of a missing 14-year-old Long Island girl rescued from a boat outside Islip where shed been held for weeks. The suspect owns the boat where the teen was held captive since Dec. 13, according to Pix 11, which cited unnamed sources. That unidentified man was reportedly arrested Friday when the teen was located. Pix11 reported hes charged with kidnapping, rape, and child endangerment. The victims father said his daughter disappeared from their Patchogue home Dec. 9 after going outside shoeless to retrieve something from the driveway. On social media, the dad said hed spent several days looking for his daughter before getting a tip leading him to the boat where she was being held. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I did bust into the boat and recover my daughter, he said, giving few details. I did clear the boat. According to the worried dad, no one else was aboard that boat when he arrived, but he indicated there were guys involved in likely forcing her to things that were sexual in nature. In a Facebook post on Monday,he said a 65-year-old man from Islip was in custody in connection to his daughters case. The father and daughter had been identified by their full names before it was alleged she was a victim of a sex crime. He said his daughter is getting help at an undisclosed facility and has a long road of recovery to begin. Police directed all further questions to the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office. They couldnt immediately be reached for comment. A Seoul court on Tuesday extended the arrest warrant for South Korea's suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol at the request of the country's anti-corruption authorities. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) is now expected to try again to enact the warrant, the Yonhap news agency reported, citing local officials. The original warrant expired at midnight on Monday (1500 GMT) after the CIO failed to detain Yoon for his botched imposition of martial law on December 3 during a budget dispute with the opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, dozens of operatives had tried for more than five hours to make the arrest. However, around 200 members of the army and security service stood in their way on the grounds of the president's residence. The CIO action was eventually cancelled for security reasons. Yoon, 64, is still in his residence, which is shielded by high walls and guarded by dozens of members of the presidential security service. Hundreds of his supporters are also camped out in front of the entrance to the property. In mid-December, lawmakers removed Yoon from office until further notice on charges of abuse of power and sedition, with the Constitutional Court currently reviewing the decision. For the time being, the former finance minister and deputy prime minister Choi Sang Mok is in charge of state affairs. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) Despite Mondays cold weather, several people still visited the memorial for the victims of the New Years terror attack that is set up at Bourbon Street and Canal Street. It means hope, unity and resilience, said Roberto Marquez, an artist who drove to New Orleans from Dallas following the attack. Marquez has been working nonstop, even in Mondays chilly temperatures, to complete his mural in dedication to the 14 people whose lives were lost. When Im dealing with a tragedy, and then I have this difficult decision to make, because I dont want to paint something that is going to make the situation worse. So, I mention about the tragedy, but I like to bring hope in it, and thats what that is. Marquez is also responsible for the wooden crosses that each showcase a victims name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Archdiocese of New Orleans to host interfaith prayer for Jan. 1 attack victims As the memorial grows, bystanders continue to stop to pay their respects. My heart started getting really heavy, and I came over here and just seeing like the positive affirmations, and their loved ones just sending warm messages and everything, it was really touching my heart, said Caleb Hardy, who lives in New Orleans. After the cameras go, Marquez is hoping the memorial will eventually become a permanent fixture, a request the Texas-based artist hopes reaches President Joe Biden upon his visit to New Orleans. And if Im lucky, I might not, you know, but if the president allows us to, you know, to connect us with a gallery and maybe a museum for the piece to be there, because this is our people, and that would mean a lot to them, said Marquez. Others agree. I think it should be, said Matthew Good, a New Orleanian who visited the memorial Monday. At least, I mean, theres going to be flowers and remembrance. People need to remember what happened here and prevent it from ever happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fourteen days of mourning started Monday as the state dedicates one day to each victim. The period will continue through Thursday, Jan. 23. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) A self-described struggling artist from Missouri, Jacob Burmood says he could have used the $3,500 offered by a South Florida suburb to exhibit one of his abstract metal sculptures. But his heart just sank when he learned the city contract prohibited him from "engaging in a boycott of Israel. Burmood turned down the offer, saying he couldn't sign in good faith because that would normalize this type of language in contracts. And it would normalize whats happening right now in Gaza. Florida is among more than 30 states that block government agencies from hiring companies that boycott Israel. Florida's law has been on the books for years, yet as the 15-month Israel-Hamas war grinds on with no end in sight, its sparking concerns among some artists and advocates beyond the state's borders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of an economic boycott of Israel say the campaign uses nonviolence to resist what they say are Israels unjust policies toward Palestinians, comparing the strategy to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Opponents say the campaign veers into antisemitism and aims to delegitimize Israel itself. Burmood requested the city of Sunrise remove the anti-boycott language from the contract, but city staff told him its required by state law, according to emails shared with The Associated Press. A spokesperson for the city, Eric Lachs, told the AP that Sunrise respects the decision of the artist to not participate in our art program. Les Gomez-Gonzalez, an artist based in Miami, said it was not an option to sign a similar contract for showing their work at a gallery in a building owned by the city of Pembroke Pines. This perpetuates the censorship of those standing in solidarity with Palestine, and manipulates access to adequate funding, Gomez-Gonzalez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after Hamas October 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza, Floridas Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis said his state stands with the key U.S. ally and emphasized our commitment to Israel and our fight against anti-Israel sentiments. In the eyes of Lee Rowland, making artists affirm specific political statements is a violation of their First Amendment right to free expression. Rowland is the executive director of the National Coalition Against Censorship, an advocacy group that has been tracking court challenges to laws banning the boycott, divestment and sanctions campaign, or BDS. These kind of contract provisions absolutely violate the right to free expression," she said, because they condition a government contract on your political beliefs and behaviors. The governor's press secretary, Jeremy Redfern, pushed back on that claim, saying Florida's law deals with conduct, not speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burmood said he has felt powerless watching the widespread destruction in Gaza backed by a record $17.9 billion in U.S. military aid to Israel. Refusing to sign Florida's government contract in December was a small act of protest he could take from halfway across the world in St. Joseph, Missouri. I am not going to be silenced, he said. Whatever my tiny little voice can do, Im going to use it. ___ Associated Press writer David Fischer in Miami contributed to this report. Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. A new report being released Wednesday from United Way Colorado and Ent Credit Union shows 37% of residents statewide and 34% in El Paso County LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says Chinese national Huazi Piao, 60, has been charged with human trafficking charges related to commercial sex operations at illicit massage parlors in Wayne County. Piao was charged with the following: One count of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise, a 20-year felony; One count of Conspiracy to Commit a Criminal Enterprise, a 20-year felony; One count of Accepting Earnings from Prostitution, a 20-year felony; One count of Money Laundering, a 10-year felony; and Two counts of Keeping a House of Prostitution, 5-year felonies. Far too many in our communities fall victim to human trafficking and endure trauma that leaves lasting scars, Nessel said. I would like to thank the prosecutors in my office and our many law enforcement partners whose efforts led to the liberation of several women from the horrors they endured, and I look forward to Ms. Piao standing trial for her alleged crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michigan Attorney General brings attention to human trafficking Piaos charges stem from an investigation launched in the summer of last year involving multiple local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies including, Michigan State Police, Homeland Security, and the St. Clair Shores Police Department. Piao will next appear in the 3rd Circuit Court on January 13, 2025. Victims of human trafficking or those who have identified someone they think may need help can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 888-373-7888 or text 233733. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ST. LOUIS A new audit uncovers patterns of mismanagement and neglect within the St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office during Kim Gardners tenure as the citys chief prosecutor. Gardner served as the St. Louis Circuit Attorney from January 2017 to May 2023, stepping down after several legal battles and calls to resign. Throughout her tenure, she faced frequent criticism from state leaders, who pointed to low rates of convictions for violent crimes and high office turnover. The audit identified numerous failures by Gardners office, including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A significant decline in the number of cases filed annually from 4,666 cases per year prior to Gardner to 2,529 during her administration. A notable increase in case refusal rates, with around 56% of referred cases being refused under Gardner. Delays in processing cases. On average, it took around 463 days to dispose of cases, exceeding the prior administrations 293 days. Gardner failed to dedicate her full-time attention to the Circuit Attorneys Office, spending time on personal coursework and missing crucial court appearances. Staff turnover rate of roughly 37% from the start to the end of her tenure. Inaccurate bank account reconciliations and unaccounted for funds in restitution and bad checks accounts. Lack of proper documentation in place. A rudderless ship of chaos. Those were the powerful words chosen by Judge Michael Noble in April of 2023 to describe the St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office under Kim Gardners leadership, Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick said. We looked at a lot of indicators, and they all told us the same thing. Under Kim Gardners leadership, the circuit attorneys office was becoming less and less effective of fulfilling its purpose. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Fitzpatrick gave Kim Gardner a poor performance, the lowest rating. He said Gardner prevented a state audit, dozens of employees quit, and the office even misused thousands of dollars of public funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is a restricted fund that is only allowed to be used for costs associated with prosecuting cases, which include bringing in witnesses from out of state and actually prosecuting people that have been charged with crimes, Fitzpatrick said. He said the state found $58,000 used for food, chili cook-outs, party rentals and more. There is no way to draw a line between a DJ and going to court to prosecute someone charged with a crime, Fitzpatrick said. According to Fitzpatrick, the audit found there to be around 6,700 cases entered by law enforcement but never entered into the circuit attorneys office system during Gardners tenure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a shocking number of cases to be never looked at by prosecutors, and it further illustrates Kim Gardners disastrous performance as circuit attorney, the state auditor said. Additionally, Fitzpatrick said that the auditors office collected subpeona records from Saint Louis University, which determined 40 separate instances of classwork during her normal business hours as the Circuit Attorney. It was determined to be 29 full days and 11 half days, or what Fitzpatrick described as approximately seven weeks she spent to pursue her nursing certification during hours she was expected to be working as a Circuit Attorney. According to the audit, Gardner repaid $5,000. Of course, theres more than one factor that contributed to the offices decline, but in my view, the driving force was Kim Gardners failure to make her job as circuit attorney her top priority, Fitzpatrick said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement List: St. Louis area school & business closings The states audit began in 2018 after Fitzpatrick said Gardner ignored the states subpoenas for months and that she further hindered the audit process by delaying responses, limiting access to records, and restricting interviews. When we finally spoke with Ms. Gardner, she placed the blame on the COVID-19 pandemic for the decline in office performance, Fitzpatrick said. However, the audit suggests the decline began before the pandemic, Fitzpatrick said. The audit cited suggestions for future administrations to improve case processing times, enhance staff training and retention, and ensure greater accountability in handling office expenditures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think she definitely owes the citizens of St. Louis who paid her and put her in office an apology, Fitzpatrick said. Yeah, she failed to do her job. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. At its CES 2025 keynote, NVIDIAalongside Aurora and Continentalunveiled a long-term strategic partnership to scale driverless trucks. Powered by NVIDIA DRIVE, Auroras SAE level 4 autonomous-driving system, known as the Aurora Driver, will be integrated with NVIDIAs accelerated compute running DriveOS. Continental plans to mass-manufacture these driverless trucks beginning in 2027. Several other well-known mobility brandsincluding BYD, JLR, Li Auto, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, NIO, Nuro, Rivian, Volvo Cars, Waabi, Wayve, Xiaomi, ZEEKR, and Zooxare similarly charting out their advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicle roadmaps using NVIDIA DRIVE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To cover end-to-end autonomous vehicle development, NVIDIA provides three key computing systems as well as AI software: NVIDIA DRIVE for in-vehicle computing and real-time sensor data processing NVIDIA DGX systems for AI model and software stack training NVIDIA Omniverse running on NVIDIA OVX systems for simulation and self-driving system validation This underscores the industrys transition toward software-defined vehicles and continuous over-the-air updates. By integrating NVIDIAs comprehensive platformfrom DGX for AI model training to DRIVE for in-vehicle computingmanufacturers worldwide can accelerate the development of safe, efficient, and advanced autonomous solutions. DENVER (KDVR) At the same time that the ACLU of Colorado is investigating the Aurora Police Departments cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Auroras mayor is asking Denvers mayor for clarity on how and why the migrant population spread to Aurora. Specifically, Mayor Mike Coffman wants to know why the ongoing Tren de Aragua gang activity has been largely tied to Aurora when busloads of migrants were sent to Denver from Texas last year. Denver reported over 42,000 migrants, mainly from Central and South America, were sheltered by the city between Jan. 2023 and July 2024. ACLU of Colorado: Aurora police may have exceeded their authority in working with ICE Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an editorial published in the Denver Gazette, Coffman described his perspective on the timeline of Auroras aid to Denver with the migrant crisis. In November 2023, Coffman said that Mayor Mike Johnston asked for permission to use the extended-stay Quality Inn hotel in Aurora for temporary housing for the migrants arriving in Denver. Residents of the extended-stay hotel told FOX31s Vicente Arenas at the time they were unsure of their next steps after they were ousted from the hotel to free room for migrants. Coffman said the lack of help for the residents already living at the Quality Inn prompted him to turn down any further requests for aid from Denver. On Aug. 18, a video obtained by FOX31 of armed individuals in the stairwell of The Edge at Lowry went viral. Department of Homeland Security sources told NewsNation that the people in the video are members of TdA. Coffman said in September, Coffman confronted Johnston about claims he had used two nonprofits to quietly place migrants in Aurora. Coffman said Johnston told him that Denver had contracts with nonprofits, and those nonprofits could have placed individuals in Aurora housing, but that he didnt have that information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, the Aurora City Council approved a measure allowing the city manager to investigate any nonprofits given money by the state, Denver and Aurora to serve migrants. The resolution stated that Denver intentionally placed immigrants within the City without notifying the City of this placement and consequently placing great strain on our community. Johnston, in a press conference Monday, said I reject that characterization completely when asked if he had helped move migrants into Aurora. Weve also been very focused on public safety in public spaces, we were aware of early on and kept track of any concerns about gang activity, we intervened early and we made some arrests, charged people, and weve not seen that problem expand here in Denver, Johnston said. Our city attorney, Pete Schulte, has obtained copies of the contracts between Denver and the two nonprofits through the Open Records Request Act (CORA) and we now know that the words in Denver or in the surrounding communities was quietly inserted into these contracts to allow these nonprofits to put the migrants in Aurora without notifying us, Coffman wrote in his Denver Gazette editorial, which he also posted to Facebook. It was designed to give Johnston cover, should it become public, by allowing him to say that it wasnt his decision to put them in Aurora; it was the nonprofits who made the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aurora police chief: Armed apartment invasion 100% gang activity Coffman claimed in his editorial that Denver is refusing to release reports containing the numbers of migrants sent to Aurora and where they were placed because the documents contain personal identifiers, like migrant names. He also said TdAs impact on the citys image will have lasting economic impacts. As the mayor of Aurora, Im asking that Mayor Mike Johnston be transparent and tell the truth about what he did, Coffman wrote in his editorial. A Denver spokesperson told FOX31 on Monday that the city has turned over more than 2,000 pages of documents to Aurora, and will be sending the last tranche soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not denying records, the city spokesperson told FOX31. There are some redactions, but they are standard protocol as related to privacy concerns. The spokesperson also said that the city did not direct migrants to be placed in Aurora, and has no knowledge of any city dollars going toward rental assistance for anyone staying in CBZ apartments. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. After a year with several big-name arrivals, as well as large-scale layoffs in the citys technology sector, a recent study has named Austin the second-best tech hub in the South. CommercialCafe ranked the top 20 metros for technology in the South, with Washington coming out on top for its job density and a median salary of $122,000. CommercialCafe highlighted Austin's emergence as a "tech powerhouse" in recent years, with major companies such as Google, Dell, Tesla, Oracle and others establishing a presence in the city. The website pointed out Austin's high job density and diverse industry segments, and the presence of both the University of Texas and the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Austin remains a magnet for innovation, talent, and investment," the website stated. Two other Texas metros, Dallas and Houston, also made the list. The Dallas-Fort Worth metro ranked fourth, moving up from sixth last year due to a more than 25% increase in tech company presence, according to CommercialCafe. The website highlighted the metro's diverse economy, which fosters collaborations with the tech sector, and the presence of companies such as iRely, Diversified, StackPath and Bestow. However, Dallas' higher cost of living and "lower tech establishment" caused it to fall behind Raleigh, N.C. CommercialCafes study scored several categories for each metro area in the South with more than 200,000 residents, according to 2023 census data. Scores were tallied to reach an overall number. Dallas ranked second and Austin third for tech establishment growth and five-year tech organization growth. Dallas added the most jobs among the metros, with 61,000 new tech jobs, an increase of more than 35%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Austin ranked fourth for median tech earnings, with an average of $111,400, and fifth for quality of life. Austin ranked second for tech job density, with nearly 80 tech jobs per 1,000 people. Houston ranked last for tech employment density, but first for number of five-year patents granted. Once synonymous with oil, Houston is increasingly making its mark as a cleantech hub and patents reflect this shift, the website said. Austins tech sector has been growing rapidly in recent years, with major companies such as Tesla and Samsung Electronics deciding to move to Central Texas and with many of its employees commuting from Austin. Tech billionaire Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, announced in the summer that all of his companies would officially move to Texas after a public feud with California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Tesla has moved into Austin and greater Travis County, and the Boring Co., SpaceX and X, formerly Twitter, are building headquarters and sites in Bastrop County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, several technology companies in the Austin metro area laid off staffers in 2024: This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Austin ranks 2nd for South's best tech metro By Alasdair Pal SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday waded in to a debate over the use of portable cabanas to reserve prime spots on the nation's beaches, saying the practice was "not on" and against the country's egalitarian spirit. Famous for its sunshine and sandy beaches, Australia is currently in the middle of its summer period, where temperatures in some parts of the country have already topped 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portable gazebo-like beach cabanas, which usually take up more space than umbrellas and offer shade in a country with the highest skin cancer rates in the world, have become increasingly popular. But photos of dozens of empty cabanas on beaches in Australia posted on social media in recent weeks have sparked furious online and media debate, with some calling the act "un-Australian", while others applauded the ingenuity. "One of the great things about Australia, unlike some parts of the world, (where) you go and you've got to pay to go to the beach, here, everyone owns the beach," Albanese said during an appearance on "Today", one of the country's most popular breakfast television shows. "It's a place where every Australian is equal. And that's a breach of that principle, really, to think that you can reserve a little spot as just yours." Albanese is facing reelection in polls that must be held by May, and which analysts say could come as early as March. (Reporting by Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Editing by Jamie Freed) (Bloomberg) -- Herbert Kickl, the conservative-nationalist tasked this week with forming Austrias next government, is at once one of the most admired and loathed politicians in the countrys post-World War II history. Most Read from Bloomberg After two years of recession, supporters have thrown their weight behind Kickls claim that only an outsider like him can fix Austrias flailing economy. Detractors counter that hes a dangerous character who has raised ethnic and religious tensions by unfairly blaming foreigners for the countrys troubles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Kickl handily won 29% of the vote in Septembers national election pollsters say he would take 37% if ballots were cast again almost seven out of 10 Austrians say they dont trust him, according to the latest data. That makes him one of the nations least credible public figures. Its possible, I admit, that some arent happy with our form of government, Kickl said on Tuesday. Its a very clear, honest and direct form of politics A career politician from the state of Carinthia on Austrias border with Italy, the 56-year-old rose through the Freedom Partys ranks as a wordsmith and master strategist. After studying Hegelian dialectics at university, he cut his teeth writing speeches for the deceased anti-immigrant demagogue Joerg Haider, lifting the then-provincial governor into national politics at the turn of the century. Kickl then enjoyed a two-year stint as Austrias interior minister before the government imploded in 2019 on the back of a sensational influence-peddling scandal that played out on the Spanish island of Ibiza. So much for the official biography. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In stark contrast to every other Freedom Party leader, we know next to nothing about him privately, said Natascha Strobl, who studies right-wing networks, in an interview. Thats part of the strategy. He has great discipline. People project a lot onto him. Always seen in gray horn-rimmed glasses, he lives with his family in a bedroom community outside of Vienna and is reported to enjoy long-distance running. Unlike previous Freedom Party leaders whose campaigns would fill beer halls with supporters only to see the candidate drink with them, Kickl comes off as more reserved. Until he opens his mouth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Donald Trump, Kickl enjoys putting on a show. His campaign jamborees are typically packed with folksy country musicians, enormous video screens, flag waving and two-hour-long speeches. During party meetings viewable on Facebook, Kickl has been known to lionize normal people and harangue eco-communists. He accuses the US of enforcing a double morality for sanctioning Russia over its war on Ukraine and promises to maintain Austrias neutrality. He swears the Freedom Party will build a fortress Austria and that he will become a chancellor of the people and against the system. How he plans to address acute problems in Austrias economy and find as much as 18 billion in budget savings in the near future while avoiding a third consecutive year of recession is difficult to decipher from his partys ideology-infused campaign program. Kickl often reserves special praise for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who he has met repeatedly and holds up as a model for how hed like to govern Austria. The faster we can do it like Hungary the better, Kickl has told supporters. Hungary is an example for me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The far right has mastered the art of subliminal messaging, said Marcus How, a geopolitical-risk analyst at Viennas VE Insight in an interview. Kickls Freedom Party, founded in 1956 by a former Nazi officer, raised eyebrows across Austrias political spectrum when its leader adopted the moniker of Volkskanzler, or Chancellor of the People, a term with deep roots in Germanic traditions. Kickl regards himself first and foremost as a strategist and thinker, How said. He is really a political operator who revels in provocation and craves power. But for all his posturing, there isnt all that much ideological coherence to his worldview. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Austrian far right leader Herbert Kickl outlined key conditions for coalition negotiations with the conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) on Tuesday, stating that the OVP must share his commitment to "honest politics." At his first press conference since being tasked with forming a government, Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) leader Kickl warned against "games, tricks, sabotage and obstructionism," emphasizing the importance of restoring public trust in politics. He said he believes that diligence, honesty and courage can foster a spirit of optimism in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kickl openly threatened new elections if the OVP does not meet his criteria, stating, "We are prepared for that." He said recent polls show the far-right populists have significantly increased their lead over the OVP and the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPO) compared to the parliamentary elections 100 days ago. The FPO was tasked with forming a government after the failure of coalition talks between the OVP, SPO and liberal NEOS, and the cancellation of subsequent talks between the OVP and SPO. President Alexander Van der Bellen, a former leader of the Greens, acknowledged the difficulty of his decision to give the FPO a chance to form a government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kickl would be the first FPO chancellor in Austria but said it was not a lifelong dream to lead the country. "Anyone who says that has no idea about me," he added. He accused the previous OVP-led government of mismanaging the country and leaving a huge budget deficit. Kickl did not specify how he intends to address this central issue in Austrian politics, avoiding comments on specific projects and not welcoming questions at his press appearance. The FPO, which topped the September election, has been in government before but as a junior partner to the OVP - not the other way around. Interim chancellor to be nominated Van der Bellen will announce the name of an interim chancellor on Wednesday. This person will continue to lead the current coalition of conservatives and the Greens until a new government is formed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previous chancellor Karl Nehammer of the OVP announced his resignation at the weekend after his efforts to form a coalition of centre parties failed, opening the door for Kickl to have a chance. In neighbouring Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said he is following the developments in Austria "with great concern." Germany holds elections on February 23 and its own far-right party - the Alternative for Germany (AfD) - is expected to do well, although mainstream parties have refused to form a governing coalition with them. Scholz said at a campaign event in Ludwigsfelde, near Berlin, that all parties in Austria that did not want to work with the FPO had a majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You actually have to make something of that. In this respect, this is perhaps also a reminder that you should think carefully about what you do beforehand - so that you don't wake up with a hangover afterwards, as a large number of Austrians are certainly doing right now," he remarked. Video footage captured from throughout Chico and Oroville paired with weeks of investigation led detectives to identify and arrest a man suspected of intentionally setting fire to Bidwell Mansion, the historic landmark whose destruction has left Chico shocked and puzzled. Prosecutors have charged Kevin Alexander Carlson, a 30-year-old from Chico, with felony arson paired with an additional enhancement for allegedly using an accelerant to start the Dec. 11 fire. Carlson appeared Monday afternoon in court for the first time after his arrest, wearing a green shirt and thin-framed glasses. During his brief appearance, he asked for time to hire his own lawyer, rather than a public defender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butte Superior Court Judge Corie J. Caraway assigned a public defender to Carlson and told him he could continue looking for private counsel. Carlson did not enter a plea to the felony charge that, with its enhancement, carries a sentence of up to 11 years. Hes now scheduled to return to court at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday and remains held without bond in Butte County Jail. Kevin Alexander Carlson, seen in a jail booking photo, was charged Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, with arson in connection with the Dec. 11, 2024, fire that gutted Chicos Bidwell Mansion. Hes expected to enter a plea as early as Wednesday. Tracking down the suspect Investigators, who believe Carlson acted alone, used video from a combination of homes, businesses, Chico States campus and government agencies including license plate readers to piece together a timeline of Carlsons alleged movements the morning of the fire and the hours before prosecutors say he started it. A week after the fire, officials said they did not have a suspect. But, not long after, investigators identified Carlson as the owner of a silver Toyota Highlander they had tracked coming and going from the Bidwell Mansion before it sparked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Butte County Sheriffs Office Communication Center in Chico received the report of the fire at 3:16 a.m. after a Chico State police dispatcher smelled smoke, found the fire on campus surveillance cameras and called it in, said Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey at a news conference Monday. The fire began toward the back of the mansion which, because of a natural cooling design built to move air through the estate, may have fueled the fire. Investigators believe Carlson broke a window on the ground floor of the mansion around 2:05 a.m. and poured gasoline inside. Video from a minute later showed two quick flashes and caught the sound of an explosion as the fire visibly grew throughout the mansion. Ramsey said a Molotov cocktail may have been used, but that its still being ferreted out. Fire alarms within the mansion, which had been under renovation and surrounded by a chain-link fence, did not sound as the fire burned about an hour before being reported. Chico firefighters work to put out hot spots on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, after the citys historic Bidwell Mansion burned overnight. Jumbled scaffolding surrounds the central tower of Chicos historic Bidwell Mansion after it was destroyed by fire on Wednesday. Smoke rises from the burned out interior of the historic Bidwell Mansion on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, in Chico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is yet to be determined why the fire alarm system did not work in the Bidwell Mansion, Ramsey said. That is something that will be a side investigation to this investigation. But it has become increasingly clear that it did not work. The Toyota SUV, later identified as belonging to Carlson, was seen parking on a street near the mansion before the fire, prosecutors allege. A person walking to and from the direction of the mansion was seen on footage from neighborhood homes with what appeared to be a red object in a black plastic bag. Despite the suspects efforts to remove his vehicles plates for a time, Ramsey said, the search of thousands of videos helped to identify the SUV because of the distinct outage of its third brake light and another broken back light. Investigators eventually matched the vehicle to Carlson and found more footage from homes near his apartment complex that showed the SUV driving by the mansion before and after the fire was set, leading to surveillance of him that continued until his arrest by Chico police on Jan. 2 outside of a restaurant. Butte County District Attorney Michael L. Ramsey discusses the investigation into Bidwell Mansion arson suspect Kevin Alexander Carlson during a press conference on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Oroville after Carlson appeared in superior court. Everyone wants to know why More video showed Carlson park outside of and walk around the mansion the afternoon before the fire was set. That same afternoon, surveillance cameras throughout Oroville showed Carlson buy several items believed to have been used to set the fire, each from a different store, including a red gasoline can, black garbage bags, gasoline and a lighter, Ramsey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Carlson was arrested, officers found a bag in his vehicle that appeared to match the one seen in footage the night of the fire. The bag had a hammer, duct tape, gloves and a lighter, Ramsey said. They did not find the red 5-gallon gas canister. Certainly everyone wants to know why, Ramsey said. Why would someone do this? Why would someone attack the Bidwell Mansion? Firefighters attempt to extinguish a blaze at the Bidwell Mansion, a California State Historic Park building in Chico, before dawn on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. Ramsey said that very left-wing TikTok channels followed by Carlson, who grew up in Paradise and graduated from Chico State with a mathematics degree, indicated an anti-colonial bent that may have informed his motive, which remains unclear. After allegedly setting the fire and returning to his apartment in Chico, Carlson left his apartment again, Ramsey said, this time to a local 7-Eleven fewer than three miles from the mansion, where a camera inside the store showed him buying a gallon of water while the fire burned across town. Andrew Steven Vaughan, the 4th Judicial District chief deputy district attorney, has been placed on administrative leave without pay after a criminal charge was filed against him on Monday. According to court records, Vaughan faces one count of felony criminal mischief of $2,000-$5,000 for an offense that allegedly occurred on Christmas Day. Court records show a summons and complaint was filed against Vaughan on Monday. Kate Singh, a spokeswoman for the 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, confirmed Tuesday that Vaughan was placed on administrative leave without pay, and that he will remain on administrative leave pending the resolution of the case. "The criminal investigation and review for filing of charges has been assigned to the Pueblo District Attorneys Office as a special prosecutor," Singh wrote in a statement to The Gazette. "Mr. Vaughan will remain on unpaid leave pending resolution of that review and potential prosecution. Next steps will be determined based on that outcome." Featured Local Savings Vaughan has been registered as an attorney in Colorado since 2009, according to the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel. Vaughan has prosecuted several cases of note in El Paso County, including the appeal case of Deborah Nicholls, who was convicted of killing her three children in a house fire in 2003, and the double-homicide case against Nicholas Jordan, who is accused of killing two people in a University of Colorado Colorado Springs dorm room last year. Vaughan is no longer listed as the attorney on either case, according to court records. Court records show that Vaughan's first court appearance is an advisement hearing scheduled for March 27. GREENFIELD, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in central Wisconsin are revisiting the unsolved case of Robert Christian, who disappeared on September 16, 1977. Christian, a Madison resident, had planned to meet a friend for bow hunting near Baraboo. When he failed to arrive, his family began searching near his usual hunting grounds in the township of Greenfield, along Tower Road between Bluff Road and the Sauk/Columbia County line. Driver hospitalized after vehicle falls through ice on Shawano Lake Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, Christians 1977 AMC Hornet was discovered abandoned at a radio tower site. The cars wheels and battery were missing, the vehicle was unlocked, and most of his personal belongings and hunting gear were gone. A comprehensive search, including ground teams, bloodhounds, and an aerial unit from the Army National Guard, yielded no trace of Christian. About a week later, investigators followed a tip to a quarry near the Badger Army Ammunition Plant. There, they found four tires and hubcaps compatible with Christians AMC Hornet, though it remains unclear if these were linked to his disappearance or were taken after his car was abandoned. A witness later reported seeing a car matching Christians AMC Hornet at about 8:00 p.m. on the night of his disappearance near the Durwards Glen Retreat Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Green Lake County reports spike in sign vandalism, seeks publics help The driver, a young man resembling Christian, told the witness he was looking for a friend and then drove away. His identity was never confirmed. The Sauk County Sheriffs Office continues to seek information that could shed light on this decades-old mystery. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sauk County Sheriffs Office at 608-355-3210. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Veteran Democratic strategist David Axelrod says it is pretty clear President-elect Trump has no desire to work with Democrats on bipartisan solutions, pointing to Trumps social media posts and track record during his first term in the White House. During a Monday night appearance on CNN, Axelrod told the panel that while the president-elect pledged to end foreign wars, lower prices of goods, crack down on crime and take care of the southern border while on the campaign trail, he has not shown his ability to cooperate with the other side of the aisle. If he does all those things, God bless him. Good for him and good for the country, he said on CNNs AC360, adding that, if there are places where the Democrats and Republicans can cooperate, that is a positive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, Axelrod continued, there is not evidence in the past of particular desire to want to work with Democrats. If you read his social media feeds, that is pretty clear, even to this day. It would behoove him as it does Democrats to say, I have bigger things to do than air my grievances and go after my enemies,' the strategist said. I want to work with people where I can. Lets see if he does that. Trump has heavily criticized Democrats in recent months, particularly following his victory in the 2024 presidential election against Vice President Harris. In November, he argued that Democrats are not in line with the countrys thinking. But, during his victory speech, the president-elect signaled he wanted to put divisions on the sideline and be the president of all Americans, arguing success will bring unity to the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Im asking every citizen all across our land to join me in this noble and righteous endeavor. Thats what it is. Its time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. Its time to unite, and were gonna try, Trump said during the speech from his Mar-a-Lago resort Florida. Were gonna try. We have to try. And its gonna happen. Success will bring us together. Ive seen that. Ive seen that. I saw that in the first term when we became more and more successful, people started coming together, he continued. Success is going to bring us together, and we are going to start by all putting America first. Some Democrats have expressed interest in working with Trump and Republicans on issues. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Sunday that Democrats, including himself, would love to work with the president-elect on a deal for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. A few progressives in Congress, including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), have also expressed interest in working with Republicans on cutting down the defense budget, where the Pentagons high spending has drawn scrutiny from both sides of the aisle. 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. Azerbaijans leader has accused Moscow of carrying out a cover up over a passenger jet crash last month that claimed 38 lives, as relations sour between the two neighbors. While meeting on Monday with the two surviving flight attendants and families of other crew members that died, President Ilham Aliyev said the preliminary investigation into the crash had confirmed that the plane was hit by Russian air defenses, according to Azerbaijans state news agency (AZERTAC). The airspace above Grozny, the capital city of the southern Russian republic of Chechnya, was only closed after the plane was hit, Aliyev alleged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 was traveling from the Azerbaijani capital Baku to Grozny, but was forced to make an emergency landing in Kazakhstan on Christmas Day. Thirty-eight of the 67 people on board died in the crash. I can confidently say that the guilt for the deaths of Azerbaijani citizens in this accident lies with the representatives of the Russian Federation, Aliyev said. We demand justice, we demand punishment of the guilty, we demand complete transparency and humane treatment. Days after the crash, Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized that the tragic incident occurred in Russian airspace, but did not accept responsibility. Putin said Russias air defense systems were active when the plane attempted to land in Grozny, according to the Kremlin, and that the area was being attacked by Ukrainian combat drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aliyev on Monday again accused Russia of a cover up, saying the focus on absurd versions of the crash has ignited surprise, regret and rightly indignation in Azerbaijan. If the city of Grozny had taken timely measures to close Russian airspace over its territory, if all the rules of ground services had been observed, and if there had been coordination between the armed forces and civil services of the Russian Federation, then this tragedy would not have happened, he said. In a break from protocol, his televised comments were made in Russian rather than Azerbaijani. Aliyev also praised the flights crew for their heroism and bravery, hailing the pilots professionalism and ability to make an emergency landing to save some of those onboard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People from Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan were on board the plane, which was a Brazilian-made Embraer 190. Brazils air force said Monday its investigators had completed the extraction of data from two black box recorders that were recovered from the crash, Reuters reported. The flight recorders had been sent to Brazil, where international experts were joined by their Azerbaijani counterparts to analyze the devices in a move to ensure transparency and credibility, according to Kazakhstan state news agency. The data has been sent to the Kazakh authorities investigating the crash, according to Reuters. Kazakhstans government is cooperating with Azerbaijan on the investigation. Separately, Russias investigative committee has opened a criminal case in relation to the disaster, the Kremlin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video and images after the plane crashed showed perforations in the planes body that look like damage from shrapnel or debris. The cause of the holes has not been confirmed. I am sure that in the near future we will learn the initial results, and everything will fall into place. The whole picture of the tragedy that occurred will also become known, Aliyev said. Of course, this will be an important moment in the full investigation of the tragedy and the punishment of its perpetrators. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com House Speaker Matt Huffman. (Photo by Morgan Trau, WEWS) Ohio lawmakers braved the snow to begin the 136th General Assembly and select new leaders for the House and Senate Monday. As in years past, the likely leaders were decided by the majority caucuses months ago. But unlike the last time lawmakers voted, those earlier decisions actually held. Republican Matt Huffman of Lima made a smooth transition from Senate President last general assembly to House Speaker now. His majority floor leader last year, Napoleon Republican state Sen. Rob McColley, got a promotion, and will serve as Senate President in the new two-year assembly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That history sets up the two men for what could be a uniquely productive partnership. Both chambers of the general assembly will be led by men with similar legislative outlooks and a strong working relationship. It comes on the heels of one of the least productive legislative sessions in decades. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As if to underscore that relationship, McColley took a moment before senators took their oath of office to give Huffman the flag that flew above the Statehouse during his term as Senate President. Still, Huffman insisted the two chambers will still have different priorities. Look, this is like the Army and the Navy, he said. Were both on the same side here, but the Navy wants to do their thing, and the Army wants to do their thing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So I expect that Senator McColley and the folks in the Senate are going to have their priorities, and our caucus will have their priorities, he continued. And often those will be the same thing, but sometimes theyre simply not going to be. The Ohio Senate In brief remarks, state Sens. Kristina Roegner, R-Hudson, and Susan Manchester, R-Waynesfield, praised McColleys legislative track-record and attention to detail. There were no other Senators nominated, and the chamber confirmed him unanimously. Ohio, I believe, is at a crossroads right now, McColley said after taking the oath. A crossroads economically, a crossroads in many respects of what our destiny and what our shared future is going to be, and I believe that if we work together, our best days are in front of us. The members went on to nominate and confirm Sen. Bill Reineke, R-Tiffin, as President Pro Tempore, Sen. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, as majority floor leader and Sen. George Lang, R-West Chester, majority whip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across the aisle, Nickie Antonio, D-Lakewood, was tapped again to serve as minority leader, and Sens. Hearcel Craig, D-Columbus, and Kent Smith, D-Euclid, will stay on as assistant minority leader and minority whip respectively. New state Sen. Beth Liston, D-Dublin, who previously served in the Ohio House, will take over as assistant minority whip. Senate President Rob McColley. (Photo by Morgan Trau, WEWS.) Speaking after the votes and the oaths, McColley addressed the broad outlines of what he hopes to accomplish in the coming session. Property tax reform, I think, is going to be one of the things we take a look at, McColley said. Theres going to be a lot of conversations about energy, as there has been for the past several months. Of course, were going to jump into the budget, and I would imagine theres going to be a desire to continue the tax reform that weve done over the course of time. Asked about potential energy legislation, McColley expressed interest in making it easier to drill for natural gas in Ohio, but for the most part, he pushed off discussion of any policy specifics until after an upcoming legislative retreat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minority Leader Nickie Antonio brought up property taxes as well, but put greater emphasis on the importance of building affordable housing. And although Antonio was quick to note they often disagreed on policy, she expressed appreciation for the working relationship she built with both Huffman and McColley over the last few years. When we call each other, the other picks up the phone, she explained. Antonio seemed optimistic the new leaders rapport might mean a more productive legislative session, even though internal Republican disagreements helped derail legislation like a higher ed overhaul Democrats strongly opposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They may or may not agree on everything, but they will at least debate and have a conversation, Antonio argued. Thats been missing for this past (General Assembly), for sure. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman. (Photo by Morgan Trau, WEWS.) The Ohio House The House GOP rivalry is finished at least thats how the votes looked. Speaker Matt Huffman won his position unanimously after a two-year long, bitter battle between former Speaker Jason Stephens, R-Kitts Hill, and a section of the caucus. State Reps. Phil Plummer, R-Dayton, and Kevin Ritter, R-Marietta, spoke of unity and integrity while nominating Huffman. No other representative was nominated. I am committed to a professional, fact-based and thorough process in our analysis of the law and the bills that come before us; our goal should be clarity and resolution, Huffman said during a speech at the end of session. If we can resolve things, if we can make decisions and move on, that is one sign of success, and thats what Im committed to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rest of the leadership also received near total support, including Speaker Pro Tempore Gayle Manning, R-North Ridgeville, Assistant Speaker Pro Tempore Phil Plummer, R-Dayton, Majority Floor Leader Marilyn John, R-Richland County, Assistant Majority Floor Leader Adam Bird, R-New Richmond, and Majority Whips Riordan McClain, R-Upper Sandusky, Nick Santucci R-Howland Twp., Steve Demetriou, R-Bainbridge Twp., and Josh Williams R-Sylvania. There were three votes dealing with majority leadership: speaker, speaker pro tem and the remaining majority officers are all included in one vote. Huffman and Manning were unanimous. Stephens was the only member to abstain from voting for the rest of the majority officers. The Democratic leadership selections also went smoothly, for the most part. House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, was reelected, as was Assistant Minority Leader Dontavius Jarrells, D-Columbus, Minority Whip Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati, and Assistant Minority Whip Michele Grim, D-Toledo. Four Republicans voted against the minority officers and six Republicans didnt vote. The rest, other than the absent members, voted in favor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters after session, Huffman said that the caucus priorities will be decided at their retreat in a few weeks, but mentioned some ideas. He wants to change marijuana policy as passed by voters in November 2023, revise regulations around development with local government, update energy policy, and make sure the budget is properly dealt. Theres going to be a significant issue with energy the way we create, distribute, and pay for energy in the state of Ohio, in my estimation, is an outmoded, outdated way of doing that, he said. Huffman also addressed property taxes in connection with public school funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Property tax does need to get addressed and, as I said, this is a two-headed beast, the speaker said. You cant talk about revenue without talking about costs and those costs average about three-quarters of that are whats being spent in public schools. The speaker made further comments about the fair school funding plan, adding that the increases in spending that were set up for the upcoming fiscal years are unsustainable. We have to look at whether these dollars are being spent wisely in some districts, he said. Outgoing House Speaker Jason Stephens greeting incoming Speaker Matt Huffman. (Photo by Morgan Trau, WEWS.) Russo is concerned about the demolishment of the fair school funding plan, and says the Dems will fight against changes to the formula. Other Democratic priorities include property tax relief and lowering costs of goods and services for families, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There seems to be a lot of alignment, particularly in the space of criminal justice I think theres gonna be a lot of disagreement on policy, public education We will continue to push for the housing issue, theres disagreement on what the priorities are. Speaker transition Stephens got to give his goodbye speech, as well. He spoke about bipartisanship, kindness despite differences, and the role that lawmakers play in the lives of the every day Ohioan. Our job is to serve the people, the people of our districts and the people of Ohio these people who sent us here to this town, whether they all voted for us to be here or not, are all counting on us to work hard to understand the issues and make the tough decisions that will ultimately improve their lives, Stephens said. The former speaker will continue serving in the House, just not in a leadership role. Follow OCJ Reporter Nick Evans on X. Follow WEWS statehouse reporter Morgan Trau on X and Facebook. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A Bakersfield attorney accused of driving drunk in a crash that injured people setting up a DUI checkpoint had a blood-alcohol content more than twice the legal limit, a prosecutor said Monday. William Charles Wright, 42, was arraigned Monday afternoon on two counts of DUI causing injury and hit and run resulting in injury. Hes also facing a misdemeanor resisting arrest charge. Kern DA extends plea offer to boy charged in Oct. homicide Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not guilty pleas were entered on his behalf and a preliminary hearing scheduled March 20. Wright, an estate planning attorney, is free on $30,000 bail and represented by attorneys Jeremy Brehmer and David Faulkner. Prosecutor Kacie Barrier asked during the hearing for bail to be increased, saying Wrights BAC tested at 0.18% and he has two prior DUI convictions. Superior Court Judge Andrew Kendall didnt adjust the bail amount, but warned Wright hes not to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in his system. The crash occurred the night of Dec. 14 on Calloway Drive north of Slikker Drive when Wrights blue Lexus SUV crashed into the back of a CHP Dodge Charger, officers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage An officer and juveniles in the CHPs Explorer Program were injured, according to CHP. Theyd been setting up a checkpoint when the crash occurred. Barrier said four people were injured. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. What does it take for Maryland jurisdictions to dig themselves out of a snowstorm? As the Maryland received inches of snow Monday, Baltimore City and surrounding counties activated hundreds of employees to plow along with a number of other resources. The office of Mayor Brandon Scott, who declared a state of emergency in Baltimore to respond to the storm, said crews were fully deployed to treat roadways continuing into Monday afternoon, with over 250 DOT snow vehicles/equipment currently deployed and over 400 additional contractor vehicles in rotation. Four city-owned garages have been made available to residents of some downtown neighborhoods to park for free. Residents of Federal Hill, Fells Point, Harbor East, Perkins Homes and Little Italy will have to show proof of residence for first-come, first-serve access to the Little Italy, West Street, Caroline Street or Fleet and Eden Street garages through Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, in Baltimore County, Our nearly 500-person crew is already hard at work pretreating our 8,800-plus County roadways that residents rely on, Baltimore County Council Chairman Izzy Patoka said in a statement Sunday. The county had 90,000 tons of salt available for storm preparations, he said. Carroll County has a stockpile of 13,000 tons of salt to work with for the 988 miles of roads the county Bureau of Roads Operations manages. On the state level, Gov. Wes Moore said during a news conference Monday that nearly 3,000 employees from the Maryland State Highway Administration and Maryland Transportation Authority were treating and plowing state roads. Maryland State Police reported receiving nearly 750 calls Monday, with over 200 reported crashes and more than 230 unattended vehicles. Have a news tip? Contact Racquel Bazos at rbazos@baltsun.com, 443-813-0770 or on X as @rzbworks. Jan. 7Weather officials lifted the winter storm warning across most of the Baltimore region around midnight as the worst of Monday's snowstorm wrapped up with over 6 inches measured at BWI Marshall Airport. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and other state officials urged motorists to continue to avoid roads Tuesday, as the potential for light snow in some areas as well as icy spots from temperatures below freezing could make travel hazardous. In a news release, Baltimore City officials warned snowy and icy conditions could be seen on roadways across the city. Residents can report streets that need to be retreated by calling 311. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The heaviest span of snowfall slowed down around noon in Baltimore but was forecast to continue stronger in the evening as another band of winter weather passes through. That second wind, anticipated to hit Baltimore from around 5 to 10 p.m., could bring roughly 1 to 3 more inches of snow, said Kyle Pallozzi, an NWS meteorologist. Here are some of the region's snowfall totals as of 8 p.m. Monday, according to National Weather Service reports: Annapolis 9.5 inches. Baltimore: 4 inches. Bel Air: 2.8 inches BWI Marshall Airport: 6.3 inches. Columbia: 5.8 inches. Churchville: 4.5 inches. Crownsville: 8.7 inches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eldersburg: 4.5 inches. Laurel: 6.8 inches. Martin State Airport: 4.5 inches. Mount Airy: 4.8 inches. Owings Mills: 7.1 inches. Randallstown: 3.5 inches. Sykesville: 5.3 inches. Westminster: 3.5 inches. With frigid temperatures expected this week, most of the snow will be staying, said FOX45 Chief Meteorologist Gerard Jebaily. "Whatever's not scooped up isn't going anywhere," he said. He noted that areas on Maryland's Eastern Shore could get above 3 inches in "round two" of Monday's snow and that overnight lows were expected to be in the teens for most of the Baltimore region until Thursday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures are predicted to be frigid for the remainder of the week, and the region could see more snow over the weekend Tuesday's forecast is sunny with a high near 33 and gusts reaching 36 mph, according to the National Weather Service. The evening will likely be even colder with a low around 19. The sun is predicted to continue to shine Wednesday, but temperatures are projected to stay below freezing throughout the day with a high of only 32. The predicted low on Wednesday night will fall to 19 with wind gusts as high as 24 mph. The colder temperatures should continue into Thursday, with a high of just 31 and low of 22 when the sun goes down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will probably be slightly warmer on Friday with a high of 35, but there is a 60% chance of snow in the evening, The snow could continue into Saturday, when the Ravens host the Pittsburgh Steelers in an AFC wild-card playoff game at 8 p.m. The high Saturday is forecast to reach 36 degrees, but game-time temperatures could fall to 27. Maryland snowstorm live coverage: Forecast calls for more snow today [ Check out the latest FOX45 News weathercast ] The city's winter shelters are active through Tuesday. Baltimore's health department issued a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert from Saturday to Tuesday, meaning an increased risk exists for cold-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia. Those seeking shelter can contact the city's Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Baltimore County, freezing weather shelters are open at the Eastern Family Resource Center at 9150 Franklin Square Drive in Rosedale and the Community Health Center at 1811 Woodlawn Drive in Woodlawn. Residents experiencing homelessness can contact the Department of Social Services at 410-887-8463, Option 1, to be screened for a shelter bed. Have a news tip? Contact Dan Belson at dbelson@baltsun.com, on X as @DanBelson_ or on Signal as @danbels.62. Contact Todd Karpovich at tkarpovich@baltsun.com or on X as @ToddKarpovich. Originally Published:January 6, 2025 at 7:48 AM EST 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? A stand-off in a German bank has ended peacefully after a man who held a 21-year-old employee against her will for three hours was detained by police. The incident in the small western town of Rimbach on Tuesday saw a 36-year-old man threaten the worker with a tool after forcing his way into the bank at around 8 am (0700 GMT), police in the central state of Hesse said. Officers were eventually able to arrest the man without resistance, with both the suspect and the victim physically unharmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect's motive remains unclear and police have not said whether he was intending to steal money from the branch. A video believed to be of the stand-off showed a man threatening a distressed woman with an object while holding her around the neck. "The situation was ended without bloodshed, and that is always the bottom line for us," a police spokesman said. A negotiation team was reportedly at the scene, with special police forces also alerted. An investigation is under way into the incident, with officers considering a search of the suspect's home. Police did not explicitly label the situation a hostage situation, as it was unclear whether the suspect was making demands of police. The warm glow patients get after using The Womens Clinic in Colorado Springs is like biting into a just-baked cookie that leaves a good feeling from the taste buds to the toes. Ive seen a lot of doctors and nurses, and the ones here are the most kind and welcoming, patient Lael Cherry-Santiago said Monday. In fact, she described a wellness exam she received at the clinic as the least unpleasant one Ive ever had in my life. For nearly 24 years, the clinic, a program of the nonprofit Dream Centers of Colorado Springs, has been operating out of two two-story suites in a strip mall behind the Templeton Post Office east off Academy Boulevard and Montebello Drive. Its the only free womens clinic in the state, said Physicians Assistant Natalie Johnson, who manages the clinic. The need for this service is immense, she said. Women ages 18 to 64, who dont have health insurance or who are underinsured and cant afford to pay their portion of bills, can obtain primary care services and specialty gynecological care such as wellness exams, cancer screenings, disease testing and monitoring, birth control, and mental health care, including assessments and licensed counseling. Primary care diagnosis and treatment for coronary artery disease, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and respiratory conditions, such as asthma and COPD, also are offered. Last year, 23 patients tested positive for some form of cancer, said Matthew Ayers, who founded Dream Centers of Colorado Springs and opened the Womens Clinic in July of 2011. We just want to help people, however we can, he said. With todays high costs of necessities, many women find themselves having to decide whether to feed their kids or go to a doctor, Johnson said. We want to decrease that barrier for women, so its one less burden on their plate, she said. Along with tending to bodies and minds, the Christian-based clinic also provides spiritual guidance, if clients desire. A cross or biblical passage decorate some walls, but the influence is not overt. Featured Local Savings Cherry-Santiago said she didnt realize the center was faith-based and, although she doesnt define herself as religious, she said it doesnt bother her that some people seek spiritual assistance while there for other needs. Janet Wilcox, one of some 70 volunteers, let clients know upon arrival that shes glad they are at the clinic and listens to whatever they want to share about whats going on in their lives. As a prayer volunteer, Wilcox prays in person with interested clients, or for privacy, patients can drop prayer requests with their first name in boxes at the front desk or in restrooms. Issues pertaining to health, family or finances are the top requests, said Wilcox, whose office has a sign that says, With God all things are possible. On Monday, her prayers included for a woman having a fertilization process, whose 5-year-old son said he wanted a baby sister. Its an unusual place the whole staff is loving and caring and its so nice to be contributing to that in some way, Wilcox said. For Cherry-Santiago, 33, the no-cost feature was most important. Though she has health insurance, she said she cant afford the $2,500 deductible the policy carries. This is the only way I can access care, she said. Finding free care can be socially embarrassing because people are expected to have an income and take care of themselves. Here, the staff is so gentle and welcoming and make me feel confident, so that feeling gets thrown out the window. Ayers, who has worked as a pastor at local churches after serving in 12 years in the Air Force as a program manager and teaching at the U.S. Air Force Academy, founded Dream Centers of Colorado Springs after researching gaps in care in the community for marginalized and vulnerable residents. His vision was and continues to be to fill the greatest gaps in the points of pain for people suffering in the Pikes Peak region. In addition to The Womens Clinic, Dream Centers runs Marys Home, a long-term residential program for single mothers exiting homelessness. The organization also is working on creating another pillar project for the early childhood education sector. Patients at The Womens Clinic have increased from 500 in the first year of operation to more than 1,200 annually, for 12,000 to 15,000 appointments per year, Ayers said. Financial support from grants and assistance from 40 churches in the Pikes Peak region help keep the organization stable and growing, he added. Other organizations and agencies donate new products that clients can receive for free at the clinic, including food, baby items including formula hand-knit baby blankets, over-the-counter medications, greeting cards and other supplies. Johnson defines the clinic as the best environment shes worked in, over her 20-year career as a physicians assistant. Its about physical, mental and spiritual health, she said. We want patients to feel seen, heard and cared for. School officials in New Hampshire say the bat eviction process is set to begin after evidence of the flying mammals living inside an elementary school was found. During an inspection Monday, Newport school officials say they found evidence of where bats were entering Richards Elementary School. School officials say the bats were mostly forcing themselves inside the older part of the building through holes and gaps in the ceiling tiles and openings around pipes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school facilities workers sealed all the tiny bat entrances. No bats were observed during the inspection, which is not unusual since they often hide in small spaces and behind insulation while hibernating, Newport schools said. To address this issue proactively, we will be contracting with someone to look for any signs of bat movement. This will be happening roughly every 2 weeks. Also, our facilities team will conduct inspections to ensure that all ceiling tiles remain intact, and any damaged tiles are promptly replaced or repaired. The school is scheduled to reopen Tuesday. Looking ahead, we plan to start the bat eviction process in March. This process involves sealing off their entry points and installing a one-way exit door to allow them to leave without re-entry, said Superintendent Donna Magoon. Please rest assured that the health and safety of our staff and students remain my top priority. I will always err on the side of caution to ensure a safe learning environment. I will continue to keep you informed as we address this situation. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford announced the arrest of Frankie Stephenson on charges relating to the possession of an image containing the sexual performance of a child. Stephenson is the Chief Education Officer at Bay Haven Charter Academy. BCSO said during the course of another investigation involving child pornography, another messaging account was found to be in communication with the target of that investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Panama City woman accidentally messages narcotics investigator instead of dealer Child pornography was found in the messages between the two, as well as information stating the user of that account was also a Bay County resident. Officials said a month-long investigation found the owner of that account to be a Panama City Beach resident. On Monday afternoon, BCSO investigators alongside Homeland Security Investigations agents, served a search warrant on the Panama City Beach home of 55-year-old Stephenson. During the search of Stephensons electronic devices, an image was found depicting at least one known minor child in a sexual manner, officials said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community leader Tom Najjar passes away BCSO said no evidence has been found at this time to involve any student at Bay Haven Charter Academy. Stephenson has been taken into custody and charged with Possession of the Image of Sexual Performance of a Child. He was booked into the Bay County Jail and will go to his first appearance on Tuesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WGHP) Black bears are in their winter dens in North Carolina and could be closer than you think. When people think of dens, they always think of caves, said Justin McVey, a district wildlife biologist with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Thats not really the case. Here are the most venomous snakes to look out for in North Carolina and what to do if you get bitten Bears can be very resourceful when making their dens. In the wild, bears will use rock and tree cavities or holes under fallen trees for their dens or ground nests, according to an NCWRC news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But McVey says that bears have been denning under houses, crawlspaces and decks more often over the last 10 years. Bears have even been known to sleep in backyard brush piles. Bear den under house (NC Wildlife) Bear den under house (NC Wildlife) Bear den under house (NC Wildlife) Bear den (NC Wildlife) Bear den (NC Wildlife) Over the last decade, we have had both an increasing human population and bear population, resulting in an uptick in bears denning under houses and decks as well as unleashed dogs disturbing bears in dens, said Colleen Olfenbuttel, NCWRCs bear expert. And in western North Carolina this year, there are plenty of debris piles and fallen trees as a result of Hurricane Helene, which offer additional ground dens for bears and other wildlife. If a bear den is discovered in a populated area, people can co-exist through the denning season, which usually ends in April. Homeowners can safely coexist with denning bears until they leave in the spring, Olfenbuttel said. Bears are only interested in getting their winter rest or, if its a female, caring for her cubs. Denning bears are not interested in engaging with people as long as people leave the bear den alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alarming: Unexpected pathogen spread by infected chiggers found for 1st time in North Carolina McVey says they avoid kicking out mother bears who have cubs as the cubs are not yet old enough to be on their own. The fun part of the job is to convince a homeowner that its OK to have a bear under their house, McVey said. In McVeys experience, homeowners are often fine with having bears under their homes after they learn cubs are unlikely to survive if separated from their mother and that bears spend large amounts of time sleeping. Sometimes, you get homeowners who want to put cameras down there and monitor the progress, McVey said. Ive never had a homeowner yet when I advise that we need to leave it say, No. Absolutely not. Theyve all been understanding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If a bear has to be kicked out of a home, the NCWRC will use a variety of methods until one works. It can be as easy as just turning on radios and turning on lights, McVey said. When bears den up underneath decks, we can run a water hose on top of the deck and let it drip down. Other times, we have to use pyrotechnics. Sometimes, just yelling at the bear from the other side of the house is enough to get them to go on. We have special firecrackers that we use that flash and bang and make a whole lot of racket. When the bears leave, NCWRC officials seal up the den and advise homeowners. Female bears usually leave their dens around late March and early April after a months-long hibernation period that often starts in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dont get diseases from vampires; What you should know about ticks in North Carolina from an expert What should I do? Black bears are typically shy, not aggressive towards humans and will avoid confrontation unless fed or provoked. If you see a den in the wild, the NCWRC urges you to stay calm, leave the den alone and leave the area. If you find a den under your deck, shed or crawl space, leave the area and call the N.C. Wildlife Helpline at (866) 318-2401 or get in contact with your district wildlife biologist. If you see a cub, note where you saw it and contact the N.C. Wildlife Helpline or contact your district wildlife biologist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The NCWRC does not trap and relocate bears, and the agency wants people to know what they can do to avoid interacting with them: Do not feed a bear or get close to one Do not leave pet food out Do not put out a bird feeder while the bears are active Make sure your garbage is secured Clean and store your grill Tell a neighbor if you see a bear NCWRC co-founded the website BearWise to provide information about living responsibly with black bears. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BRIDGEWATER Registration has opened for the Beaver County Polar Plunge, offering community members a fun opportunity to help fundraise for the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania. According to event organizers, the event will bring community members together at the Bridgewater Landings Marina from 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 25. Participants can register to jump into the Beaver River online or in person at the event. In addition to the plunge into cold water, the festivities will include a Lucky Duck raffle, food trucks, vendors and more to show support for the local athletes. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the Polar Plunge, diving into the chilly waters of the Beaver River, and registrations can be done either as individuals or as a team. These polar plunge fundraisers are the largest events that support the 15,000 athletes in the Special Olympics and help support access to sports, health and leadership programming in Pennsylvania. New Brighton team Ice Lions exit the cold water of the Beaver River during the Beaver County Polar Plunge in Bridgewater during 2024. Participants must raise a minimum of $75 to participate in the plunge event, but organizers are encouraging participants to continue fundraising past that goal to help the Beaver Plunge meet their goal of $150,000. Cool Schools, teams organized by local schools, are being asked to raise $35 per team member to receive the official T-shirt for the 2025 Beaver County Polar Plunge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Participants can also register as "Too Chicken to Plunge," helping fundraise for the Special Olympics without diving into the cold river water. Anyone can be a spectator, free of charge. Those unable to attend the event can still help the group's fundraising by donating online. This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Beaver County Polar Plunge returns to Bridgewater on Jan. 25 Jane Bailey, right, is a plaintiff in a lawsuit filed Monday by a legal team representing tenants and former tenants of the Omaha Housing Authority's high-rise and apartment buildings that are alleged to have bedbug infestations. Left is OHA resident Deana Beedle. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner) OMAHA Advocates are hoping that back-to-back punches a class action lawsuit filed Monday and another push for a change in state law will provide relief to Omaha public housing residents suffering from bedbugs. Derek Hovendick, a plaintiff in the lawsuit, shows bedbug bites he says he got while living at an Omaha Housing Authority apartment high-rise. (Courtesy of lawsuit) The complaint filed in Douglas County District Court seeks good riddance, at the expense of the Omaha Housing Authority, to the blood-sucking hitchhiker parasites, as well as refund on rent for as many as 1,700 low-income residents of OHA apartment towers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state legislation Sen. Terrell McKinney plans to introduce this month would put the weight of Nebraska law behind the bug eradication effort that targets the states largest public housing authority. Weve got to hit them from all sides, said McKinney. Welts, sleeplessness, fear His bill, among other things, would mandate disclosure of bedbugs to potential residents and notify other tenants of infestations. McKinney said previous state legislation has strengthened some public housing tenant protections, but not pertaining to bedbugs. The North Omaha lawmaker was among several area elected officials, including outgoing State Sen. Justin Wayne and newly elected Ashlei Spivey, who attended the Monday news conference that also drew community leaders and OHA residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wayne, also a lawyer, is representing the OHA plaintiffs, along with Iowa attorneys Steve Wandro and Jeffrey Lipman, who have handled bedbug class action cases involving high rise structures elsewhere across the nation. Their 38-page lawsuit, which includes photos of bedbugs and scabby tenant arms, alleges the infestation dates back to 2016. It claims residents of multiple OHA towers suffered physical and emotional injuries including painful welts, sleeplessness, fear and isolation due to sustained intense, insidious infestation. Jeffrey Lipman, left, and Steve Wandro are Iowa lawyers who have handled bedbug class action suits nationally. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner) Few insects are more difficult to abide than bedbugs that travel through walls, pose health hazards and prefer to latch on to sleeping persons, leaving nasty bites, said Lipman, who described the OHA as having the worst case of bedbugs he has seen. He said eradication will take millions of dollars. Keeping them away, he said, likely will require permanent on-site crews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney Steven Wandro said that good riddance is possible with proven treatment protocols and that in this day and age there is no reason, for people to suffer from bedbugs. OHA heat treatment rooms OHA chief executive officer Joanie Balk said she had not reviewed the legal complaint. But she said the housing authority takes treatment of all pests, including bedbugs, seriously. OHA employs its own pest control team, which has recently expanded, and also contracts with outside services. The OHA whose board members are appointed by Omahas mayor and confirmed by the City Council uses practices endorsed by the Douglas County Health Department and the U.S. Housing and Urban Development, which is a major funding source to the public housing agency and rent subsidy programs. Overall, OHA helps provide housing and other services to more than 20,000 people whose income makes them eligible for government assistance. Balk said the agency also has started to install heat treatment rooms. Community leaders and public housing tenants were among those attending a Monday news conference. In front row from left to right, OHA tenant Michael Coleman, City Councilwoman Juanita Johnson, community activist Cheryl Weston and City Council candidate Maurice Jones. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner) The opportunity to heat treat belongings in an environment where pests cannot further spread, in collaboration with unit preparation and chemical treatments, will further enhance the ability to combat the presence of bedbugs, Balk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many factors affect the presence of bedbugs, she said, and any response must be multi-faceted. OHA plaintiffs are seeking monetary compensation as well as aggressive remediation. The lawyers, who are asking for a jury trial, said that public housing plaintiffs in similar cases have been awarded a full rent return for a designated time period, even though the rent was subsidized by the federal government. Bugs falling on my head Jane Bailey is among 17 tenants identified in the lawsuit who assert they were not told their future residential building had bedbugs and that their complaints were ignored. Lipman said that up to 1,700 people could be represented. Bailey moved into the OHA Underwood Tower in 2016 and said she was blessed five years later to have been able to find a different living arrangement with a neighboring housing authority. She remains a plaintiff, saying she has ongoing ill effects. Justin Wayne, a term-limited Nebraska lawmaker, at a Monday news conference. He is on the legal team representing the OHA tenants and former tenants who said they suffer from bedbugs. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were falling on my head, Bailey said of bedbugs in her OHA apartment. She said that during the holidays, shed have to meet family at a casino or restaurant out of fear that if they came to her apartment theyd leave with an unwanted guest. Bailey said she had to enlist help from a social worker to help with phobias. She said she remains anxious to hang her coat next to other coats, fearing that a bug might crawl out. We helped everybody, and that meant we ended up with bedbugs on us, said Baileys friend, Deana Beedle, who is an OHA tenant. It's the only place I can afford Michael Coleman, resident of OHA's Underwood Tower Michael Coleman, also named as a plaintiff, said he moved into Underwood Tower in the summer of 2018 with his wife and was not informed that either the building or his apartment had a problem with bedbugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he noticed the pests and complained, and that OHA has sprayed periodically. Coleman said that while hes afraid to sleep, he wont move. Its the only place I can afford, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Beethoven House in the western German city of Bonn has purchased an important original manuscript by composer Ludwig van Beethoven with the help of public and private donors. The Cultural Foundation of the German Federal States on Tuesday said the document is a complete movement from Beethoven's String Quartet No 13 in B flat major, opus 130. The manuscript, written in 1825, consists of nine pages with 15 sides of musical composition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It reveals notes and corrections made by the legendary composer, who died in 1827. The Beethoven House is in the composer's birthplace in Bonn and includes a museum, concert hall, research centre and archive. President Daniel Hope said the document was the last known major Beethoven manuscript still in private hands. A special exhibition on the new acquisition is planned from June to August 2025. The manuscript has a chequered history. It was since the 1920s in the hands of the Jewish Petschek family, who were persecuted by the Nazis and left the Czech Republic in 1938, with their property being confiscated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, restitution was made to the descendants, who agreed to sell the manuscript to the Beethoven House. The caretaker of the collection, Julia Ronge, expressed her gratitude "that the Petschek descendants have decided to leave this treasure to a German institution despite their family history." Composer Jorg Widmann paid tribute to the String Quartet opus 130 and in particular the part covered by the acquired manuscript, which he described as "rhythmically highly complex, bulky and spiky." Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of the Belarusian opposition, has called on Western countries not to recognise the upcoming so-called presidential elections in Belarus. Source: Tsikhanouskaya during a meeting with Lithuanian Seimas Speaker Saulius Skvernelis, as reported by European Pravda, referencing Delfi Details: Tsikhanouskaya claimed that the events scheduled for late January in Belarus "have nothing to do with elections". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "In a country where all media outlets have been destroyed, all parties dissolved and political leaders are either in prison or exiled, fair elections are impossible." The opposition leader believes the process will be "fake, swift, staged" and nothing more than "a ritual for Lukashenko." Quote: "Of course, we urge our democratic partners not to recognise these so-called elections. There is no need to explain this to Belarusians, as Lukashenko will not be legitimate in the people's eyes after this ritual." More details: The so-called "presidential elections", during which Alexander Lukashenko is expected to declare another victory for himself, are set to take place in Belarus on 26 January 2025. Background: Following rigged elections in August 2020, Lukashenko violently suppressed widespread protests throughout Belarus. Since then, there has been no real opposition in the country, and independent media has been silenced. Opponents of the dictatorship, notably the opposition led by Tsikhanouskaya, are imprisoned or exiled. Earlier, Tsikhanouskaya urged Belarusians not to participate in the "presidential elections" in January 2025 and to refrain from protesting to avoid repression. Support UP or become our patron! Jordan Maclachlan, 26, a volunteer combat medic from Scotland, has been killed in action on the front line. He had been fighting for Ukraine since 2022. Source: The Guardian; BBC Details: Jordan was killed on Friday, 3 January while serving on the front line, the Guardian reports. Quote: "Jordan always believed that he was making a difference and we are all so proud of him helping others," his family said in a statement. "Jordan was a fun-loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and a friend to many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, the BBC reports. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it was supporting the family of a British man who had died in Ukraine and was in contact with local authorities. Jordan Maclachlan is not the first British citizen to die in combat with Russian troops. Other Britons who have died in Ukraine include Peter Fouche, who was killed in action in July 2024. Before the full-scale invasion he lived in London and worked as a carpenter. In March 2022, he left the safety of England and travelled to Ukraine. In January last year, Peter took the oath of allegiance and officially joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces as a combat medic. The defender was survived by his 15-year-old daughter, Nicola. Peter had said that it was for her sake that he came to Ukraine. Read also: "Kindest man in the world": Andrii Kuzmenko, Ukrainian marine officer and husband of journalist, killed in action photo Support UP or become our patron! Colorado Springs-area resident Rebecca Lavrenz, who was found guilty last year on four federal misdemeanor charges related to the United States Capitol breach on Jan. 6, 2021, while demonstrators protested the 2020 presidential election results, says she will deny a pardon should President-elect Donald J. Trump offer such a deal to her after he takes office on Jan. 20. The reason? Lavrenz, who became known on social media as the J6 Praying Grandma, has appealed her case and, should the Washington, D.C. appellate court agree that she is not liable for the $103,000 fine levied because she was acting under rights allowed by the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment, Lavrenz says the decision would be precedent-setting. But a pardon would negate the appeal. The purpose is to do something for our country, Lavrenz said. This would be in the best interest of our country. Her lawyers initiated the process to appeal the ruling that she did not have a First Amendment right at the Capitol, as a judge in the U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia issued with her jury conviction on April 4, 2024. She also seeks to have the fine rescinded. Lavrenz said her lawyers soon will file the appeal brief. Trump has said he would pardon defendants of the Jan. 6 Capitol breach, which began four years ago Monday with demonstrations called Stop the Steal, outside the Capitol building and ended in violence, with some rally-goers protesting the 2020 election results on the day of certification wreaked havoc inside and outside the building. However, it is unknown how many of the 1,572 defendants charged with crimes related to the breach will be considered for pardoning. Of those, 590 individuals are charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, which is a felony, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Lavrenz has a feeling shell be among those offered pardons. The great-grandmother and retired nurse says she went to the event from her home in Falcon, where she runs a bed-and-breakfast, to Washington, D.C., because she felt called by God to attend and pray at the Capitol. Featured Local Savings Video surveillance shows her entering the Capitol building with a group of other rally attendees and being inside for 10 minutes before exiting. Lavrenz said she did not touch anything or do anything or yell anything during that time. She just looked and prayed. Im really elated that President Trump said one of the first things hed do in office is pardon J-6 defendants, she said. There should be justice for all, and I feel like the whole thing was very unfair, we werent dealt with fairly, because we were standing up for what we believe. She was arrested nearly two years later, after a tipster reported her as being at the event, and federal officials came to her home, and she appeared in December of 2022 for her first hearing in federal District Court in Denver. After a trial in Washington, D.C., that lasted nearly 26 hours over four days, she was convicted on April 4 and sentenced Aug. 12. She dodged prison time but has on house arrest ever since, wearing an ankle monitor and being banned from using the internet. That part hasnt been bad, Lavrenz said. Shes working on a book about her experiences and also has spent her time reading, reflecting and praying. While on home confinement, shes been restricted to only leaving her property for one hour a day, twice a day, which is when she feeds her chickens and goes to the mailbox. Lavrenz also is making payments toward her $103,000 fine she received. The ankle monitor and internet ban will be lifted next month, but she'll continue to remain on probation. I want to get my voice known, Lavrenz said. We have to make America great again, but we have to make it godly, first. This is not just about a violation of my rights, but its about getting our country back to godliness. Jordan Maclachlan, a 26-year-old volunteer and combat medic from Scotland, was killed on the front line in Ukraine on Jan. 3, BBC reported. "Jordan always believed that he was making a difference, and we are all so proud of him helping others," his family said in a statement. The family is awaiting further details from the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), which confirmed to BBC it was supporting Maclachlan's family and coordinating with local authorities in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Jordan was a fun-loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and a friend to many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him," the family said. Maclachlan is among several British volunteers who were killed while fighting for Ukraine against Russian aggression. In November, 22-year-old Callum Tindal-Draper, who served in Ukraines foreign volunteer platoon, was also killed in combat. Read also: Ukraine secures return of 3 children from Russian-occupied territories, ombudsman says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have provided an even better look at the previously secretive remote vision system (RVS) that is central to the operation of the Israeli Air Forces critical Boeing 707 tanker fleet. TWZ has previously looked at this system used by the boom operator to see what is happening at the rear of the aircraft while connecting the boom with the receiving aircraft but the actual operator interface has, as far as we know, never been seen in such detail. The new imagery comes from an official IDF video that features the 707 tanker known locally by the Hebrew name Reem, meaning oryx and which was published to coincide with its 60th anniversary. The footage shows details including the fuel tanks in the cargo hold and the boom. The internal tanks can also be removed, allowing the aircraft to be reconfigured as transports, including with airliner-style passenger seating. Most interesting, though, is the boom operators position, with the RVS interface. Fuel tanks in the cargo hold of an Israeli 707 tanker. IDF screencap This includes control sticks on either side and a foot-operated communications system, meaning the boomers hands are kept free to operate the console. The boomers screen is relatively large and surrounded by what appear to be exclusively analog instruments a reflection of the overall age of the installation. The RVS console in the cabin of an Israeli 707 tanker. IDF screencap IDF screencap We got a previous view of the screen of the RVS back in September 2024, in a video showing portions of a long-range strike mission flown against Houthi targets in Yemen. You can read that earlier analysis here. A view of the Reems RVS provided by the IDF in a video released in September 2024. IDF screencap In July of the same year, after the 707 supported another long-range IAF raid on Yemen, IDF released video from the RVS camera feed itself, although not of the actual boomer interface that controls the system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, the console used on the Israeli 707 makes a fascinating comparison with the much more modern iteration of the same technology thats now used on the U.S. Air Forces KC-46 Pegasus. Of course, specific technology used in the KC-46 has gained something close to notoriety, since the complex RVS has proven to be a particular source of problems for that program. Cameras for the Israeli RVS in the tail of the 707 tanker. IDF screencap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we can see in the IDF video, as in the KC-46, the Israeli 707 boom operator goes about their work from a station in the main cabin, aided by an array of cameras at the rear of the aircraft that feeds into the RVS. According to an audio description provided with the video, the boomer is provided with special glasses, as in the KC-46, although the 707 RVS has just a single monitor rather than the multiple ones in the Pegasus, which uses a hybrid 2D/3D system. Boom operators sit at their workstations wearing their specialized glasses in the main cabin of a KC-46A. U.S. Air Force As we discussed in our previous coverage of the Israeli RVS, its nothing short of surprising that this earlier concept has been serving for decades in a very high-stakes role, while the U.S. Air Force still waits for a revised system in the KC-46: Perhaps the most surprising facet of this is that Israel developed and fielded a remote vision system that seems to function without any lingering difficulties, and did so many years ago, while the U.S. version used in the KC-46 is still mired in delays. We still dont know exactly how bad the teething of this older Israeli system was when it was introduced many years ago. Another modern remote vision system has meanwhile also been developed and introduced by Airbus, on the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). An Israeli Air Force 707 assigned to 120 Squadron, from Nevatim Air Base, Israel, takes off for a mission during Red Flag-Nellis 23-2 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, March 20, 2023. U.S. Air Force Whatever the story of the Israeli RVS, its days in service now appear to be numbered ironically, the 707 will be superseded by the KC-46. An initial eight of these aircraft have been ordered and they are almost certain to be provided with the next-generation RVS installed the 2.0 version of the system is expected to be delivered starting in April 2026. While Israel might decide to continue operating the 707s for a while, to supplement the KC-46, these are, by now, aging platforms, and the most worn-out examples are already being retired. A rendering of an Israeli KC-46 refueling an F-15 fighter. Boeing As for the IAF 707 Reem fleet, this entered service in 1979, with then-newer 707-300 airframes replacing previous 707-100s. These aircraft were bought from commercial airlines before being modified locally for aerial refueling. The conversion was done by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). Additional airframes were acquired and upgraded to tankers as recently as the 2010s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to vital aerial refueling, which is fundamental for allowing the Israeli Air Force to conduct long-range strikes, the 707 also has an important role as a command-and-control station and communications node. The aircraft carries a satellite communications suite to provide critical, secure beyond-line-of-sight comms with appropriately equipped tactical aircraft like the F-15 and F-16 and command centers far away. This is also highly important for long-range strike operations. An Israeli Air Force Boeing 707 tanker demonstrates refueling hookups with F-15 fighters over Hatzerim Air Base. JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Israel is understood to have no more than seven 707 tankers in service, meaning that these assets are more precious to the service than ever. As Israel moves toward phasing out these enduring aircraft, we may well start to learn more about its operations and some of its more sensitive technologies, like the RVS, that have helped it remain the backbone of the Israeli Air Forces long-range strike capabilities since the early 1980s. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com BEVERLY, Mass. (WWLP) A Beverly man faces multiple firearms charges and allegations of inciting violence against Jewish communities after federal authorities tipped off local police about threatening online activity. According to police, Matthew Scouras, 34, of Beverly, was arrested on Saturday and arraigned on Monday, facing charges that include: Possession of a Firearm Without a License (12 counts) Illegal Possession of Ammunition Possession of a Large-Capacity Feeding Device Improper Storage of a Firearm Threats to Destroy a Place of Worship Willful Communication of a Threat with a Dangerous Item (a Firearm) Manufacturing a Firearm Without a Serial Number The Beverly Police Department was alerted by the FBI National Threat Operations Center on January 2 about threatening posts allegedly made by Scouras on an internet image board. The posts included incitements to violence against Jewish individuals and specific calls for shootings outside synagogues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following an initial visit to Scouras residence at 527 Essex St., Beverly police secured a search warrant from Salem District Court. Scouras was taken into custody for a mental health evaluation before the warrant was executed. The search uncovered a cache of weapons and other items in Scouras bedroom, including: A 9mm Glock ghost gun without a serial number Six boxes of ammunition Three large-capacity rifle magazines Eleven lower receivers for rifles, legally classified as individual firearms under Massachusetts law Various firearm parts, scopes, pistol frames, and rifle stocks A jig for modifying pistol handles A Nazi flag Over $70,000 in cash (Courtesy of Beverly Police Department) Scouras was arrested without incident and arraigned on January 6. He is being held without bail pending a detention hearing scheduled for January 13. 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. A Beverly man was arrested last week for allegedly threatening violence against the Jewish community while owning several guns, authorities announced Monday. Matthew Scouras, 34, is charged with twelve counts of possession of a firearm without a license, threatening to destroy a place of worship, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a large capacity feeding device, improper storage of a firearm, willful communication of a threat with a dangerous item (gun), and making a firearm without a serial number, according to the Beverly Police Department. Police said they received a tip from the FBI National Threat Operations Center that an individual at 527 Essex Street, later identified as Scouras, was posting threats against Jewish people on an internet image board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scouras posted threats to rape Jewish women and encouraged other users of the site to carry out shootings at synagogues, according to investigators. Police made an initial visit to Scouras home and then obtained a search warrant from Salem District Court. Scouras was taken into custody on Saturday following a search of his home and held for a mental health evaluation. According to authorities, officers found a Nazi flag, a 9mm Glock ghost gun with no serial number, six boxes of ammunition, three large-capacity rifle magazines, 11 lower receivers for various rifles, other firearm parts, scopes, pistol frames, a jig used for drilling holes into polymer pistol handles, rifle stocks, and more than $70,000 in cash in Scourass bedroom. Investigators also found a cell phone and two desktop computers. Scouras was arraigned Monday and was held without bail pending a detention hearing on January 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Antisemitic hate crimes reach 8-year high in Massachusetts, state report shows 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 Biden administration has eased sanctions blocking transactions with the transitional Syrian government following the ousting of longtime dictator Bashar Assad. The move marks a gesture of outreach between the U.S. and Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS), designated as a terrorist group in the U.S., after the group led the successful overthrow of Assad. The sanctions relief allows for American businesses and nongovernmental organizations to contribute to Syrias reconstruction under the transitional government, particularly in the form of essential services such as electricity, energy, water and sanitation. The end of Bashar al-Assads brutal and repressive rule, backed by Russia and Iran, provides a unique opportunity for Syria and its people to rebuild, Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said in a statement Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During this period of transition, Treasury will continue to support humanitarian assistance and responsible governance in Syria. The U.S. has called for HTS to carry out the transition to a Syrian government that is inclusive of civil society, in particular minorities and women, as necessary to establish relations. While the Biden administration has dropped a $10 million bounty on the head of HTS, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has taken on the role of Syrias leader, U.S. officials said they are closely watching how HTS leads the transition process before wide-ranging sanctions are lifted. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is headed this week to Italy and the Holy See for meetings with European counterparts to advocate for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, the State Department 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 The Hill. The Biden administration plans to unveil a significant final weapons aid package for Ukraine during Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins visit to Germany on Jan. 9. Austin is set to meet representatives from around 50 nations that have supported Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion nearly three years ago, two senior defense officials told the Associated Press. While the officials did not specify the exact value of the aid, they described it as "substantial." The package will not encompass the approximately $4 billion remaining in congressionally approved funding for Ukraine. However, they noted that "more than a couple of billion dollars" would likely be left for the incoming Trump administration to allocate if it chooses to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine is currently engaged in a second offensive targeting Russias Kursk region while enduring long-range missile strikes and Russian advancements in Donetsk Oblast. Both sides are maneuvering to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20. According to one defense official, Biden administration officials handling Ukraine policy have been coordinating with Trumps transition team to address "all the issues that we believe are important. " Austins trip to Ramstein Air Base will mark his final meeting with the coalition he formed in response to Russias invasion in February 2022. Over the course of the war, these nations have contributed more than $126 billion in military assistance, including ammunition, advanced fighter jets, air defense systems, counter-UAV technologies, and tanks. The U.S. has provided $66 billion of that total. The upcoming aid package, scheduled to be announced on Jan. 9, will draw from existing stockpiles with the intent of delivering most of the pledged weapons to Ukraine before Trump takes office, one official said. Read also: Europe cannot fill void left by US in Ukraines defense Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. WASHINGTON (AP) The Biden administration is set to announce a massive, final weapons aid package for Ukraine as part of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins visit to Germany on Thursday to meet with representatives of about 50 partner nations who have come to Ukraines defense since Russia invaded nearly three years ago, two senior defense officials said. The officials did not provide an exact dollar amount but said the package was expected to be substantial," although it would not include all of the roughly $4 billion left in the congressionally authorized funding for Ukraine. There likely would be more than a couple of billion dollars remaining for the incoming Trump defense team to provide to Ukraine if it chose to do so, the officials said Tuesday in briefing reporters traveling with Austin. Ukraine is in the midst of launching a second offensive in Russia's Kursk region and is facing a barrage of long-range missiles and ongoing advances from Russia as both sides seek to put themselves in the strongest negotiating point possible before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden defense officials working on Ukraine have been in contact with Trump's transition team to discuss all the issues that we believe are important, one of the officials said. Austin's trip to Ramstein Air Base will be his final meeting with the group he organized to come to Ukraine's defense after Russia's invasion in February 2022. Together those nations have provided more than $126 billion in weapons and military training and assistance. Those packages have included millions of rounds of ammunition, advanced fighter jets, air defense systems, counter-UAV systems and even tanks. The U.S. has provided $66 billion of that total. The package to be announced on Thursday will be drawn from existing stockpiles with a goal of getting most of the weapons pledged to Ukraine by the time Trump is sworn in., one of the defense officials said. On Dec. 30, the administration announced a separate $1.25 billion aid package, part of a series of aid announcements as it hurried to get as much military assistance to Ukraine as it can before President Joe Biden leaves office. The officials said roughly 80% to 90% of all stockpile equipment promised has already been provided to Ukraine. A gray wolf prowls the winter forest (National Park Service photo) The U.S. Fish & Wildlife service has denied two petitions from hunting advocacy groups to reduce federal protections for gray wolves under the Endangered Species Act. The petitions asked the agency to recognize wolves in western Great Lakes states, including Minnesota, as a distinct subpopulation and delist them, and also to reduce protections on wolves in parts of Oregon, California and Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hunters argued that wolf populations have surpassed initial recovery goals in the Great Lakes region, and that populations in the West Coast states are growing fast enough to merit downlisting. The Fish & Wildlife Service disagreed, ruling that the petitions do not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. The move is the latest in a longstanding tug-of-war between environmental advocates who want to see wolf populations protected, and hunters who either believe the wolves are devouring local deer populations or who simply want to shoot the animals themselves. Today, our federal government did not bow to the will of those who want to see wolves exterminated at the expense of sound science and ethics, said Amanda Wight of the U.S. Humane Society, in a statement. Gray wolves are already absent from most of their historic range. On top of that they face immense persecution from trophy hunters, trappers and agribusiness. The Sportsmens Alliance, one of the groups petitioning for reduced protections, dismissed the ruling as a politically motivated farewell folly from the Biden administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration, however, has a record of favoring loosened protections for wolves. Biden initially kept in place a Trump-era change that removed Endangered Species Act protections for wolves across most of the U.S. That change was ultimately reversed by a federal court in 2022. Bidens Department of Justice subsequently asked a federal appeals court in September to remove Endangered Species Act protections for wolves. The ESA (Endangered Species Act) is clear: its goal is to prevent extinction, not to restore species to their pre-western settlement numbers and range, attorneys with the Department of Justice wrote in that petition. In 2020, the Trump administration stripped ESA protections for most gray wolves in the U.S. Among other things, that ruling allowed the state of Wisconsin to allow a wolf hunt in February 2021. Hunters subsequently shot far more wolves than allowed by the states quota in a matter of days. Conservationists point to that incident as a warning sign of what could happen if the fate of wolves is left up to the states, as the hunting groups are advocating. A preliminary report by the Federal Aviation Administration states that engine issues led to a small Piper plane making an emergency landing Monday near Colorado 105 between Monument and Palmer Lake on Monday. Gazette media partner KOAA reports that the Palmer Lake Fire Department said the plane, identified as a 3-seater Piper PA-12 by the FAA, landed about 4:45 p.m. in a field just south of the intersection of Colorado 105 and Red Rock Ranch Drive. The Fire Department said the plane had one passenger. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office confirmed to The Gazette that "the plane landed safely with no injuries." The Sheriff's Office reported the plane did not sustain damage in the landing, and that no prolonged road closure was needed. Featured Local Savings The FAA will continue to investigate the emergency landing. The serial number of the plane shows it registered to a man from Elbert County, but it was unclear if he was the pilot in the emergency landing. For more coverage, see the KOAA story here. BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) The Biden administration on Tuesday abruptly dropped its nascent plan to protect old-growth forests after getting pushback from Republicans and the timber industry. The move was announced by U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore in a letter to forest supervisors. It brings a sudden end to a yearslong process to craft a nationwide plan that would better protect old trees that are increasingly threatened by climate change. The effort had been supported by some conservationists as one of the most significant forest preservation efforts in decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Biden launched the initiative with an executive order on Earth Day in April 2022. The proposal went through extensive public comment periods and internal analyses by government officials and was due to be finalized any day. The plan would have limited logging in old-growth forests, with exceptions to allow logging in some old-growth areas to protect against wildfires. But those exceptions were not enough for the timber industry and Republicans in Congress who bitterly opposed the administrations proposal. They said it wasnt needed since many forested areas already are protected. And they warned it could be devastating to logging companies that rely on access to cheap timber on public lands. GOP lawmakers introduced legislation while the administrations plans were still in the works to block them from going into effect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore said in his letter that much was learned from the first-of-its-kind effort to identify old-growth trees on public lands across the nation. He also acknowledged criticism from those who said the administrations approach to old-growth forests was flawed since they can vary greatly between different types of ecosystems. There is strong support for, and an expectation of us, to continue to conserve these forests based on the best available scientific information, Moore wrote. There was also feedback that there are important place-based differences that we will need to understand in order to conserve old-growth forests. Montana Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines in a statement called the withdrawal of the old-growth plan a victory for commonsense local management of our forests. Most old-growth stands fell to logging as the nation developed. Yet pockets of ancient trees remain, scattered across the U.S. including in California, the Pacific Northwest and areas of the Rocky Mountains. Larger expanses of old growth survive in Alaska, such as within the Tongass National Forest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres wide consensus on the importance of preserving them both symbolically as marvels of nature, and more practically because their trunks and branches store large amounts of carbon that can be released when forests burn, adding to climate change. Alex Craven, the forests campaign manager for the Sierra Club conservation group, said there was a "scientific necessity and public expectation to protect old-growth and mature forests. Those two facts make formal old-growth protections a matter of when, not if, Craven wrote in an email. Wildfires in recent years decimated blocks of old-growth forest in states throughout the U.S. West and killed thousands of giant sequoias. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wildfires, insects and disease have been the main killers of old-growth trees since 2000, accounting for almost 1,400 square miles (3,600 square kilometers) of losses, according to government research. Logging on federal lands cut down about 14 square miles (36 square kilometers) of old-growth forest and timber industry representatives have said that figure shows further restrictions arent needed. Bill Imbergamo with the Federal Forest Resource Coalition, an industry group, called the administrations proposal legally dubious and ecologically flawed. All this exercise showed was that older forests are widespread on the national forest system. Most of these are already off limits to timber harvest, Imbergamo said. Old growth forests are succumbing to fire, insects, and disease, and they need management to make them healthier and more resilient." A White House spokesperson did not immediately respond to telephone messages seeking comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration's plan faced a doubtful future if it had been finalized. During the first term of President-elect Donald Trump, federal officials sought to open up huge areas of West Coast forests to potential logging. Federal wildlife officials under Biden reversed the move in 2021. They found that political appointees under Trump relied on faulty science to justify drastically shrinking areas of protected forest considered crucial habitats for the imperiled northern spotted owl. The owl has been in decline for decades as old-growth forests were cut in Oregon, Washington and California. Two death row inmates are refusing to sign paperwork accepting President Joe Bidens commutation of their sentences to life in prison without the possibility of parole, according to NBC News. Last month, Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates in a move that was applauded by anti-death penalty advocates. But two of those prisoners, Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, who are imprisoned at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, have filed emergency motions requesting injunctions to prevent their death sentences from being commuted, saying they are still trying to prove their innocence and believe the commutations could put their appeals at risk. Death penalty appeals undergo a special process known as heightened scrutiny, with courts carefully examining such cases for mistakes because of the severe consequences of the sentence. While the process doesnt necessarily give prisoners a better chance of winning their appeal, Agofsky noted in his filing that he doesnt want to lose the heightened scrutiny process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To commute his sentence now, while the defendant has active litigation in court, is to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny. This constitutes an undue burden, and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, which would decimate his pending appellate procedures, his filing states. Meanwhile, Davis said in his filing that he has always maintained that having a death sentence would draw attention to the overwhelming misconduct that he claims the Department of Justice is guilty of. Guard towers rise above the grounds of the Federal Correctional Complex Terre Haute on July 25, 2019 in Terre Haute, Indiana. Two inmates at the complex have rejected the commutations of their death sentences (Getty Images) He added that he thanks the court for its prompt attention to this fast-moving constitutional conundrum. The case law on this issue is quite murky. But the inmates may struggle to get their death sentences restored, with a 1927 Supreme Court ruling stating that the president can grant reprieves and pardons, adding that the convicts consent is not required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agofsky was convicted following the murder of Oklahoma bank president Dan Short, whose body was found in a lake in 1989. According to federal prosecutors, Agofsky and his brother Joseph Agofsky abducted and killed Short and stole $71,000 from the bank. Joseph Agosfky, who died in prison in 2013, was handed a life sentence for the robbery, while Shannon Agofsky got a life sentence for the murder and robbery. Shannon Agofsky was subsequently convicted of having stomped another inmate to death at a Texas prison in 2001. A jury recommended a death sentence in 2004. The 53-year-old notes in his request for an injunction on Bidens commutation that hes still attempting to clear his name in the original case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendant never requested commutation. The defendant never filed for commutation, the filing says. The defendant does not want commutation, and refused to sign the papers offered with the commutation. Laura Agofsky, who married Shannon Agofsky in a phone ceremony in 2019, told NBC News Monday that his lawyers had told him to request a commutation. He refused because his death row status gives him the legal counsel he needs to appeal his cases. He doesnt want to die in prison being labeled a cold-blooded killer, Laura Agofsky told NBC News. Davis is a former New Orleans police officer convicted of the murder of Kim Groves in 1994. Prosecutors claimed that Davis employed a drug dealer to kill Groves after she filed a brutality complaint against him for reportedly beating a teenager. While Daviss death sentence was thrown out, it was reinstated in 2005 by a federal appeals court. The 60-year-old filing states that he has always maintained his innocence and argued that federal court had no jurisdiction to try him for civil rights offenses. Sunlight reflects off the waters of Norton Sound off Nome on Sept. 4, 2021. In the distance on the left are floating gold dredges. Norton Sound is part of the Bering Strait area, where President Joe Biden extended an oil and gas leasing prohibition established in 2016 by then-President Barack Obama. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The entire Northern Bering Sea is now off-limits to oil and gas leasing, under a presidential directive announced on Monday. President Joe Biden invoked his authority under a federal law to withdraw about 44 million acres of the Northern Bering Sea and other federal offshore areas from the Department of the Interiors oil and gas leasing program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An earlier action by President Barack Obama in 2016 established a Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area, with protections that put about half of the region off-limits to oil and gas leasing.Bidens action under the Outer Continental Shelf Act added the rest of the designated climate resilience area to the no-leasing category. Along with the Northern Bering Sea, Bidens action affected the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The Atlantic was already under a leasing moratorium set to expire in 2032 absent Bidens action. West Coast governors over the past decades have supported a leasing ban in federal waters of the Pacific. The last Pacific lease sale was in 1984, the White House said. In all, Bidens actions banned leasing in over 625 million acres of U.S. ocean territory, the White House said. Biden, in a statement, said the decision addresses local and regional concerns. 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. 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 the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bering Sea tribal organizations, in a joint statement, praised Bidens action. We thank President Biden for issuing these (withdrawals) and honoring over 40 years of Tribal advocacy to protect our food security and marine environment from oil and gas leasing. Kawerak region Tribes have opposed offshore oil and gas drilling in the Northern Bering Sea since the early 1980s. Tribes are the original stewards of the Northern Bering Sea. We depend on a healthy ocean, and we appreciate President Biden for partnering in this stewardship to protect our waters, Mary David, executive vice president of Kawerak Inc., said in the statement. Kawerak is a Nome-based consortium representing Bering Strait-area tribes. Strips of salmon dry on a rack on the beach in the village of Teller on Sept. 2, 2021, as a cargo ship floats offshore in Grantley Harbor. Vessel traffic in the Bering Strait region has increased as Arctic sea ice has retreated, and that is one of the risk factors that tribal organizations are seeking to manage through the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) Vivian Korthuis, chief executive of the Association of Village Council Presidents, which represents tribes in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region, and Jaylene Wheeler, executive director of the Bering Sea Elders Group, also noted that their organizations have long opposed oil and gas development in the Northern Bering Sea. President Bidens decision reflects a strong dedication to safeguarding natural resources that are vital to both our economy and ecosystems. His leadership in prioritizing sustainable practices ensures a healthier resilient future for us all, Korthuis said in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While tribal opposition to oil and gas development in the region dates to the 1980s, the 112,300-square-mile Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area that was created by Obamas executive action in December 2016 addressed some other concerns. The project had its roots in several years of organized opposition to bottom trawling in the Northern Bering Sea, according to Kaweraks website. Bottom trawling, a fishing method that uses nets to sweep the ocean floor for certain groundfish species, is currently prohibited in the Northern Bering Sea. The Bering Sea is among the fastest warming regions of the world, with well-known impacts to fish and marine wildlife, as well as to coastal communities experiencing more flooding and erosion. The ecosystem impacts were detailed in the 2019 Arctic Report Card issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The climate resilience area designation elevates tribal participation and Indigenous knowledge in federal management decisions in the Northern Bering Sea. Development and industrialization issues there largely concern commercial fishing, which is changing as stocks shift northward, and shipping, which is increasing as Arctic sea ice diminishes. Cook Inlet, existing leases unaffected Bidens action does not affect Cook Inlet or any other parts of Alaska. It does not affect any existing leases, planned lease sales or ongoing development and production in the central or western Gulf of Mexico, where almost all U.S. offshore oil and gas is produced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonetheless, U.S. Rep. Nick Begich, R-Alaska, the states newly elected House member, invoked Cook Inlet in a social media post on Sunday that blasted the president. Joe Biden is a son of a bitch. Hundreds of thousands of Alaskans rely on natural gas from the Cook Inlet to heat and electrify their homes, churches, schools, and workplaces. Actions like this should serve as a permanent reminder that the Democrat machine is more than happy to sacrifice us all in the name of their sanctimonious, socialist-driven, climate science religion, said the post on the site X. While the Cook Inlet basin provides natural gas to the states Southcentral region, all of it comes from state territory and none has ever come from federal offshore areas. A rock formation is seen at the edge of Safety Sound east of Nome on Sept. 30, 2020. Safety Sound, which is habitat for fish, birds and marine mammals, is an imporant subsistence and recreation site for Nome-area residents. The Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area was established to elevate the role of tribal governments and Indigenous knowledge in the management decisions. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) On Monday, Begich issued a follow-up statement that reiterated his opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Executive actions impacting American resources taken under the cover of climate resilience should be revoked, and it is my belief that actions that lock up American resource development should not be subject to executive fiat, he said in the statement. Most of the blame for low interest in oil leasing in federal offshore areas of Alaska should be attributed to the adversarial positioning of federal bureaucracies, he added. The entire Bering Sea holds only negligible amounts of oil or natural gas that could be feasible to develop, according to a 2021 resource assessment published by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy. Sales in 1983 and 1984 for Bering Sea areas sold over 200 total leases, and a few wells were drilled shortly after. No development resulted. There has never been any oil or natural gas produced from any federally managed outer continental shelf regions off Alaska, except for three federal leases in the Beaufort Sea that are part of the Northstar unit, an offshore oil field that is located mostly on state territory. Northstar was developed by BP in the 1990s and is now owned and operated by Hilcorp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether Bidens action can be reversed by President-elect Donald Trump is unclear. Trump, in his first term, issued an executive order that sought to overturn Obama actions that barred leasing in most of Alaskas offshore Arctic. The executive order also revoked the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area designation; Biden revived the designation in 2021. The first Trump administration also proposed oil and gas lease sales in all offshore Alaska regions except for the North Aleutian Basin, which had been placed permanently off-limits to leasing years earlier. During the first Trump administration, the Alaska congressional delegation, then-Gov. Bill Walker, fishing organizations, the tribal governments and others asked the Trump administration to drop plans to sell oil leases in the Northern Bering Sea. Those proposed Trump lease sales never happened. U.S. District Court Judge Sharon Gleason in 2019 struck down the Trump administrations attempts to use executive action to revoke the Arctic offshore leasing bans, as well as the Atlantic leasing ban that existed at the time. Gleason ruled that Obamas withdrawals could be reversed only by Congress. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The strongest Santa Ana winds in over a decade that whipped wildfire and chaos through the Pacific Palisades on Tuesday were expected to worsen overnight, with 100mph gusts forecast fanning an uncontrolled blaze that led to 30,000 evacuations and cancellations of events from movie premieres to a planned airport departure by President Joe Biden. The Getty Villa museum, Palisades High School and the Bel Air Beach Club were among the locations affected by the raging flames that the fire department struggled to get under control amid howling winds. Grounds at the Getty were burned, although the priceless antiquities in the villa were reported safe. Palisades High School, meanwhile, became engulfed in flames and in videos shared online appeared in a dire state. BREAKING: Palisades High School is getting completely burned to the ground.pic.twitter.com/1W7EOwi1YK aka (@akafacehots) January 8, 2025 By nightfall Tuesday, the fire had spread to nearly 3,000 acres, destroying luxury homes in the celebrity-filled enclave. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a state of emergency proclamation, while Los Angeles officials also braced with a state-of-emergency declaration with the fire marching toward western neighborhoods like Brentwood and Bel Air. Forestry officials released an interactive map for residents to track the fires spread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Santa Monica, residents stood on san Vicente and watched the flames a mile away. Among those taking video was Albert Brooks, standing at 14th street. Flames and smoke choked the Southern California sky with eerie red light and smoke that drifted out to sea. Numerous state and local agencies scrambled firefighters, airplanes and helicopters to battle the blaze, but there was no indication that it was even partially contained. Traffic backed up for miles Tuesday on the routes out of the Palisades, located just off the Pacific Coast between Santa Monica and Topanga Beach and home to some 24,000 people. The evacuation area included hundreds of luxury homes and iconic landmark sites, including the Getty Villa; officials there said fire had burned some trees and other parts of the grounds. The fire was first reported around 10:30 a.m. and had already grown to nearly 800 acres by the early afternoon. President Joe Biden was in a motorcade vehicle in the West Los Angeles area Tuesday morning for his planned trip to Thermal when his camp decided to return to their hotel, hunker down and reschedule the event. It was not clear when they planned to leave. Pacific Palisades fire is horrifying. Its steps away from Santa Monica pic.twitter.com/qyDUzVc3DL votkon (@votkon) January 7, 2025 Entertainment industry executives, producers, actors, writers scrambled to find places to shelter for the night, everywhere from the Beverly Hills Hotel to friends couches. One marketing executive said he left a meeting in Beverly Hills at around 5 pm and stopped at Century City to buy clothes for overnight, booking a hotel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A PR executive in West Hollywood was taking a friends orphaned dogs overnight who had to move to a no-dogs hotel. One Fox executive said that the flames were getting too close for comfort: We can see the Palisades fires from the lot! And residents of neighboring Brentwood were also starting to pack up, concerned that the fire would spread overnight. Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images Los Angeles Fire Department officials issued an evacuation warning midday Tuesday for the Pacific Palisades Highlands community, including all neighborhoods from Rustic Canyon to the East and Topanga Canyon to the West. Palisades Drive is closed from Pacific Coast Highway up into the Palisades Highlands neighborhood. All Malibu schools were closed for the day and Pacific Palisades schools were relocating. Those near the Palisades Fire should get set for a potential evacuation, the city of Los Angeles posted on X earlier Tuesday. David Ortiz of the LAFD urged West L.A. residents to follow orders and do not stand in the way of this fire. Fire burning this morning in Pacific Palisades (near top of Bienvenida). Video shot by my friend Matt Kunitz. pic.twitter.com/MmZtGVJ7E8 Frank Buckley (@FrankBuckleyTV) January 7, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Karen Bass echoed those sentiments on X, writing, In preparation for high winds, LAFD pre-deployed strike teams in and near areas prone to wildfire. Firefighters are now actively and aggressively responding to the Palisades Fire with support from regional partners. The winds were forecast to continue through midday Wednesday, and the National Weather Service said gusts could get up to 100 miles per hour. The Palisades are located about 10 miles from Malibu, where the fires burned over 4,000 acres and several homes after similar windy conditions in December. In nearby Los Angeles, parties, premieres and other events were canceled outright. An FYC event in West Hollywood for Jason Reitmans Saturday Night film was scrapped; Universal and Amazon MGM Studios canceled premieres for Wolf Man at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, and Unstoppable at the DGA Theater. Newsom warned Los Angeles residents that we are not out of the woods as the fierce Santa Ana winds gained strength. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to have the most significant wind event between 10 p.m. this evening and 5 a.m. tomorrow morning, so its incumbent that everybody, have a wildfire action plan for their home if they live in a brush covered area, Los Angeles Fire Chief Andrew Maroney said in a press conference. As people evacuated, many captured harrowing footage of flames raging, abandoned cars being pushed aside by bulldozers and firefighters battling flames. Among them was actor James Woods, who posted video of his Palisades home being menaced by towering flames; he said with the aid of firefighters he and his family were able to safely evacuate. Notable residents of Palisades include Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, Ben Affleck, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kate Hudson, Miles Teller, Chris Pratt and more. Spielbergs reps said he was on the East Coast, while others didnt respond or declined to disclose their whereabouts. So far, no one has been reported injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this point, we feel very blessed at this point that theres no injuries that are reported. We do have reports of multiple structures that are damaged since the beginning of this fire, Maroney said. Our deck three minutes ago. pic.twitter.com/KpZDELpN8L James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) January 7, 2025 Creative agency head Sara Fitzmaurice photographed flames encroaching on Santa Monica and Brentwood from the Brentwood Country Mart, a shopping and dining mecca for entertainment industry families. The flames in the Palisades lie just past residential streets where industry luminaries like Mel Brooks and Peter Chernin live. Palisades Fire growing & moving fast. Moments ago from the Brentwood Countrymart. Praying for the brave firefighters, pilots flying into the heat & smoke to drop retardant, prayers for friends and neighbors affected and at risk. #palisadesfire pic.twitter.com/FJKnWvonbH Sara Fitzmaurice (@sarafitzmaurice) January 8, 2025 Sharon Waxman contributed to this report. The post Thousands Evacuated as Fire Rips Through Pacific Palisades, Whipped by Ferocious Santa Ana Winds appeared first on TheWrap. President Joe Biden on Tuesday will travel to California to designate a pair of new national monuments, safeguarding nearly 850,000 acres of ecologically and culturally significant land in the Golden State from new drilling, mining and other development. The new designations are part of the outgoing administrations eleventh-hour push to protect sensitive lands and waters before President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House later this month. Trump has a record of chipping away at protected landscapes and is pledging to prioritize fossil fuel drilling and other industrial development across the country. Chuckwalla National Monument will span more than 624,000 acres of desert south of Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. The area is home to rugged mountain ranges and dozens of rare species, including the desert bighorn sheep and the chuckwalla lizard. The Cahuilla, Chemehuevi, Mojave, Quechan and Serrano nations all have ancestral ties to the newly protected lands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The monument will connect to a series of other federally protected lands running along the Colorado River from the Mojave Desert in California to the town of Moab, Utah. The White House described the Moab to Mojave Conservation Corridor, which also includes Grand Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, as the largest contiguous stretch of federally protected lands in the Lower 48, running a length of 600 miles and encompassing nearly 18 million acres. The stunning canyons and winding paths of the Chuckwalla National Monument represent a true unmatched beauty, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said in a statement. President Bidens action today will protect important spiritual and cultural values tied to the land and wildlife. Yellow brittlebush flowers bloom near Red Canyon in the then-proposed Chuckwalla Mountains National Monument on April 20, 2024, near Chiriaco Summit, California. The monument is one of two that Biden is designating in California. David McNew via Getty Images Biden will also designate Sattitla Highlands National Monument a 224,000-acre swath of lands managed by the Modoc, Shasta-Trinity and Klamath National Forests in Northern California. The monument includes Medicine Lake, a dormant volcano that now serves as a major source of fresh water, feeding a network of springs whose total volume exceeds the combined capacityof Californias 200 largest manmade lakes, according to Hatch magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the two new monuments will boost Bidens conservation legacy he has protected more than 670 million acres of lands and waters, more than any president in history, according to the White House they are likely to become targets of the incoming Trump administration. During his first term, Trump turned national monuments and the Antiquities Act of 1906, which gives presidents broad authority to create protected sites on existing federal lands, into political lightning rods. He famously dismantled the boundaries of two large national monuments in Utah Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in what was the largest rollback of national monuments in U.S. history, only to have Biden restore them to their original boundaries. Trump and other Republicans have accused recent administrations of abusing the nearly century-old Antiquities Act to lock up federal acres, conveniently ignoring that many early monument designations spanned hundreds of thousands of acres. Project 2025, the 920-page policy blueprint that GOP operatives created to guide a second Trump term, explicitly calls for repealing the 1906 law. The new monuments will not impact existing rights, instead allowing for some resource exploitation to continue, including clean energy initiatives and efforts to reduce flammable vegetation to mitigate wildfires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon signing the proclamations creating Chuckwalla and Sattitla Highlands, Biden will have created, expanded or restored a total of 15 national monuments, boosting protections for nearly 9 million federal acres. Tuesdays action comes a day after Biden permanently banned oil and gas drilling across 625 million acres of federal waters, including the entire Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Related... An oil drilling platform in the Gulf of Mexico. (Getty Images) An energy industry researcher says, despite both praise and criticism of President Joe Bidens executive order banning offshore drilling in huge swaths off much of the nations coastline, the measure will likely have no near-term impact on oil and gas exploration. President-elect Donald Trump issued a similar ban five years ago, and Bidens action expands on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president signed two memoranda Monday to permanently ban offshore drilling over more than 625 million acres of ocean to advance his commitment to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, a White House statement said. The prohibition applies to future oil and gas drilling off the entire East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and the remaining portions of Alaskas Northern Bering Sea where drilling was still permitted. The areas havent attracted much drilling interest to begin with and were already subject to similar though less sweeping restrictions. LSU professor David Dismukes, an energy sector economist, said he expects nothing of real significance to come out of Bidens decision. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the crude oil extracted in the U.S. comes from the Permian Basin, a vast area spanning western Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Only about 15% comes from offshore drilling in federal waters, and that is overwhelmingly concentrated in the western and central Gulf of Mexico, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Itd take decades to get the eastern [Gulf of Mexico] and Atlantic and parts of Alaska into position for drilling, particularly anything remotely like what we see in the central and western [Gulf of Mexico], Dismukes said. Restricting areas from future development is not good for long-term resource availability, Dismukes said, adding that he doesnt see Bidens new restrictions being a big negative. Still, the prohibition underscores the Biden administrations animus toward oil and gas, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LSUs Center for Energy Studies, which Dismukes once led, receives a significant portion of its financial support in the form of donations from fossil fuel companies. Republicans immediately pounced on Bidens announcement, with Trump vowing to reverse the ban. A reversal could prove challenging, however, and would likely involve a drawn-out court battle. In a statement Monday, Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt strongly criticized Bidens move. 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, Leavitt said. The U.S. has produced more oil and natural gas under Biden than under Trump or any other president, according to data from the EIA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, himself, issued a similar executive order in 2020 that banned drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico through 2032. Bidens prohibition has no expiration date but does not apply to federal waters off the coasts of Louisiana and Texas. Oil and gas companies have shown little interest in drilling outside of those areas. Twenty-two lease sales have been held over the years for areas in the eastern Gulf, but they never resulted in commercial production, according to information from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. 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, Erik Milito, president of the National Ocean Industries Association, said in a statement Monday. Blanket bans only serve to transfer energy production and economic opportunities abroad, inadvertently bolstering countries like Russia at the expense of U.S. interests. The industrys current offshore drilling interest has been concentrated on a small sliver of water near the eastern Gulf but still within the central Gulf area, closer to Louisiana than to Florida. Bidens ban could, at least in theory, shore up Louisianas offshore drilling sector, but industry groups with ties to the state have remained in lockstep opposition to the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent offshore drilling ban, though not directly affecting the western Gulf of Mexico, is a blatant attack on the oil and natural gas industry an industry vital to our nations energy security and economic strength, Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Associations Tommy Faucheux said in a statement. This decision undermines our ability to provide stable, reliable, and affordable energy to meet the needs of American families and businesses. Congress banned drilling in parts of the Gulf of Mexico in 2006 with the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act, which remained in effect through June 30, 2022, and was extended through 2032 via a Trump executive order. Other prior acts of Congress and presidential orders have restricted drilling in the northern Bering Sea, parts of the West Coast and most of the East Coast. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX (Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden offered condolences and pledged federal support at a prayer service with family members of the victims of the New Years Day attack in New Orleans. Most Read from Bloomberg During the service hosted by the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Biden said he was here to stand with you, agree with you, pray with you, let you know you are not alone. The rest of the nation is looking at you as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president was accompanied by first lady Jill Biden, who spoke with loved ones of those killed as well as others affected by the assault that killed 14 people and injured more than 30 others in the heart of the French Quarter. If theres one thing we know, New Orleans defines strength and resilience. You define it, the president said. The visit on Monday, which Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell also attended, came five days after Shamsud-Din Jabbar, according to the authorities, drove a truck through a crowd of New Years revelers on Bourbon Street. The driver, a US citizen from Texas and Army veteran, was killed in a shootout with police. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said he acted alone. Authorities said they discovered an ISIS flag with the vehicle and explosive devices in coolers near the scene of the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US officials said theres no sign that Islamic State directed the New Orleans assault, but warned that the group will try to use the attack to spur more acts of violence, according to an assessment from the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force obtained by Bloomberg News. I directed my team to make every resource available to federal, state and local law enforcement to complete this investigation quickly, and do whatever else we can, Biden said during the service. Biden earlier on Monday said the Mardi Gras parades and related events in New Orleans in February and March would receive additional federal security resources, upgrading them to a Special Event Assessment Rating of 1. The Super Bowl slated to be held this year at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Feb. 9 is also a SEAR 1 event. Such events receive a federal coordination team and special assistance, which could entail explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessments, venue screening and field intelligence as well as air security and tactical operations, according to a White House fact sheet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Biden, Mondays service showed him once again taking on one of his most challenging tasks of his office comforting victims of mass violence or natural disasters. Its a role the president has embraced during his tenure, using his own history of personal tragedy, to connect with grieving Americans and assure them that his administration will marshal resources to help communities recover. Biden has made similar trips, including to the Hawaiian island of Maui after devastating wildfires in 2023 and to Uvalde, Texas, in 2022, where he sought to comfort families whose children were killed in a mass shooting at a school. Mondays visit to New Orleans came with two weeks left until President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody thats just had such a tragic loss, Biden told reporters at the White House on Sunday. The president lost his first wife and a daughter in a 1972 car crash, and his eldest son Beau Biden died of cancer in 2015. Earlier: New Orleans Attacker Visited Egypt and Canada in 2023, FBI Says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FBI officials have said they found no evidence linking the New Orleans attack to another incident in Las Vegas hours later in which a US Army Green Beret, Matthew Livelsberger, shot himself and detonated explosives inside a rented Tesla Inc. Cybertruck. The truck exploded outside the Trump hotel in Las Vegas, injuring seven people. Livelsberger, who died by suicide, was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, according to law enforcement officials. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President Biden praised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, recounting a variety of issues the leaders worked on together over the years and emphasizing he is proud to call him my friend. The last time I visited Ottawa, I said that the United States chooses to link our future with Canada because we know that well find no better ally, no closer partner, and no steadier friend. The same can be said of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Biden said in a Tuesday morning statement. The outgoing U.S. president said Trudeau, who announced his resignation Monday, was the first world leader Biden spoke with as he took office in 2021. Biden spoke with Canadas Liberal Party leader Monday, showing appreciation for his partnership over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Together, weve tackled some of the toughest issues our nations faced in decades, from the COVID-19 pandemic, to climate change, to the scourge of fentanyl. Weve stood together with the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression to defend our nations most sacred value: freedom, Biden said. And we have made generational investments to strengthen our supply chains and rebuild our economies from the bottom up and middle outestablishing North America as the most economically competitive region in the world. Trudeaus resignation came well ahead of Canadas general election later this year. The ruling Liberal Party is losing traction in the polls. Amid that, President-elect Trump has threatened to slap a 25 percent tariff on the import of Canadas goods if it does not fortify border security and crack down on fentanyl coming across it. Biden on Tuesday commended Trudeau for leading Canada 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, Biden said. And the world is better off because of him. I am proud to call him my friend. And I will be forever grateful for his partnership and leadership. 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 ORLEANS President Joe Biden traveled to New Orleans on Monday to offer condolences to those mourning the New Years Day terrorist attack, drawing from his own personal grief as he has done repeatedly during his term in response to horrific acts of violence. The president also vowed to stand by the community as it recovers from an attack by an Army veteran who drove his pickup truck into revelers in the citys iconic French Quarter. I know events like this are hard the shock and pain still so very raw, Biden said at a prayer service at a cathedral near the site of the attack. My wife Jill and I are here to stand with you, to grieve with you, to pray with you, to let you know youre not alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden pledged to make all resources available to complete the investigation into what he termed a horrific act of terrorism by a former soldier, a Texas native who had become radicalized and pledged allegiance to the Islamic State. We will support everyone who lives there, all the people of New Orleans as they heal, he said. This city and its people get back up. Thats the spirit of America as well. Earlier on Monday afternoon, Biden made a brief stop at the site of the Bourbon Street attack. He stood in silence in front of a shrine for the victims as first lady Jill Biden laid flowers. The Bidens met privately with law enforcement officials, survivors and family members of those killed in the attack prior to attending the roughly hourlong prayer service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The visit represented one of the final trips that Biden will take as president, and perhaps the last of several that he has had to make in the aftermath of mass violence or natural disasters over the last four years. It came amid a busy final stretch for Biden, who was scheduled to travel to California after New Orleans to dedicate new national monuments aimed at protecting tribal lands on Tuesday. The president is then returning to Washington to eulogize former President Jimmy Carter on Thursday, before leaving for Italy to meet with the Pope. Biden during his term has embraced the role as a consoler-in-chief like few other presidents before him, routinely meeting with grieving families in the wake of tragedies. In those moments, Biden has often drawn on his own experience with loss. His first wife and baby daughter died in a car accident in 1972, and his son Beau died from cancer in 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not the same. We know what its like, Biden said during his speech, which came after a reading of the names of all those killed in the attack. You think of the birthdays, the anniversaries, the holidays to come without them. Still, he urged the community to draw on the lessons that he has taken from his own grief and find purpose in your pain. The day will come when the memory of your loved one will bring a smile to your lips before a tear to your eye, Biden said. My prayer is that that day comes sooner rather than later. The first draft of Colorado Springs' new rules for recreational marijuana sales was released ahead of Wednesday's Planning Commission meeting. The proposed ordinance, placed on the agenda for the Planning Commission, includes the strictest restrictions on the locations for the retail sales allowed by the measure city voters passed in November. The ordinance also outlines a path for the city to revert to a retail sales ban by adding a new ballot measure in April. The ballot question passed in November allows for the existing medical marijuana facilities in the city to apply for licenses to sell recreational products, as well. The measure overturned the retail sales ban Colorado Springs has enforced since recreational marijuana was legalized in Colorado in 2012. According to the current draft of the ordinance, the retail stores have to be at least 1 mile away from an elementary or secondary school, drug or alcohol treatment facility and residential day care center. The retail stores would not be allowed to operate in any residential zone in the city or a residential unit. The proposed rule follows through on the zoning setback the City Council passed in September ahead of the election. Backers of the legalization ballot measure said the mile setback would prevent any of the current medical marijuana businesses from being able to make the switch. The ballot question only required the stores to follow a 1,000-foot zoning setback from the other facilities. Featured Local Savings The cultivation and testing facilities for retail marijuana have to be 1,000 feet away from schools, treatment facilities and any "public or private day care facility" under the proposed ordinance. The setback is slightly more restrictive than the city's rules for medical marijuana establishments, which focus on the distance from residential child care centers. The ordinance also includes a cancellation clause. One section of the draft states that if the law passed in November is "repealed through a subsequent vote of the electorate at the spring 2025 election, this ordinance shall be repealed in its entirety as of the date of said 2025 vote." The April 1 election is when Colorado Springs voters will choose new City Council members and vote on any issues the city places on the ballot. The Planning Commission, which reviews various development applications and proposals, will vote on its recommendation for the rules around marijuana sales at the 9 a.m. Wednesday meeting. The City Council will take up the ordinance at one of its first meetings of the year. A group of the ballot measure's backers recently sent a letter to the city asking them to enact the approved measure in good faith in 2025. The letter to Mayor Yemi Mobolade last week criticizes the City Council for attempting to undermine the recreational marijuana ballot measure in the lead-up to the November election. The ballot question received 54.7% of the votes in the election. The 17 groups and people that signed the letter include the owners of medical marijuana stores in Colorado Springs, El Paso County Democrats chair Mischa Smith, a doctor and two leaders of El Paso County Progressive Veterans. President Biden signed legislation into law over the weekend to expand Social Security benefits for droves of Americans. The measure, dubbed the Social Security Fairness Act, repeals two tax rules that proponents say have unfairly reduced benefits for many Americans who also receive government pensions. But experts are sounding alarm over its expected price tag and raising questions of fairness around the legislation. Here are some things to know. How does it work? The legislation would repeal decades-old tax rules known as the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) that have reduced Social Security benefits for workers that receive pensions and for their spouses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts say the provisions are aimed at preventing some beneficiaries from collecting higher Social Security benefits than earned. But critics of the rules say the measures are flawed and have led to unfair reductions for many people. While most jobs are covered by Social Security, many Americans have worked in state and local government jobs that fall outside of that coverage and have been able to earn a pension instead. That includes those in teaching professions, police officers, firefighters and others who have worked in public service. Because Social Security runs on a progressive benefits formula, those on the lower end of the income spectrum who worked much of their career in jobs paying into the program earn higher benefits relative to their income. But experts say issues come about when calculating Social Security benefits for someone who has spent much of their life in employment not covered by the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you have state and local workers, some of those jobs are not covered by Social Security, Rich Johnson, head of the Urban Institutes program on retirement policy, said in an interview. So, when you work at those jobs, youre not paying into Social Security, not paying Social Security taxes, your employer doesnt pay into Social Security taxes. Then when this person leaves that state and local job and then works in the private sector, theyre, lets say, only in the private sector for 10 years, Social Security sees those 10 years of earnings, but when theyre computing lifetime earnings, theyre dividing it by 35 years, he said. And so it looks really small, and so, as a result, theyre getting a 90 percent replacement rate. What supporters say Proponents have cheered the legislation as a long time in coming, panning the rules as outdated while championing the measure as a victory for public servants. In 2003, I held the first-ever Senate hearing on the WEP and the GPO, and I am pleased that with todays signing of the Social Security Fairness Act, these unfair provisions in our Social Security system have finally been repealed, Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine), who authored the Senate version of the bill, said in a statement over the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins, whose office said the law will ensure 25,000 Mainers receive their earned benefits, also attended the White Houses recent bill signing ceremony, where President Biden also lauded the measure. The bill Im signing today is about a simple proposition, Biden said. Americans who have worked hard all their lives to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity. According to the Congressional Research Service, more than 2 million beneficiaries were affected by the WEP as of December 2023. That same month, nearly 746,000 also saw their benefits reduced under the GPO. Behind those numbers, reports of improper payments have helped fuel calls for reforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration (SSA) said that the agency disclosed it made more than $457 million in improper payments related to WEP and GPO in August 2022. The watchdog also said it discovered in 2011 that the SSA had overpaid about 24,900 beneficiaries approximately $623.8 million because they were receiving non-covered pensions from state or local governments, but SSA had not reduced their benefits. The price tag Fiscal hawks have sharply criticized the legislation in recent months, while citing a projection from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimating the move would cost upward of $190 billion over a decade. The CBO also projected in a letter late last year that Social Securitys trust funds could be exhausted roughly half a year earlier than it would be under current law if the measure were made law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First of all, $200 billion is a lot of money over 10 years, right? Chris Towner, policy director for the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said in an interview, calling the estimate significant. He also raised concerns about the impact the legislation could have on Social Securitys funds. The board of trustees for the programs accounts said last year that the depletion date for the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, which pays out Social Security benefits to retirees, and the programs smaller Disability Insurance Trust Fund will be 2035. Six months maybe wasnt an issue 20 years ago, but the fact that were only nine years away now, yeah, I mean, thats a pretty big issue, Towner said. Actually, were closer now. Were like eight and a half years away because of this bill. I mean, the closer we get to Social Security, the harder its going to be to prevent the kind of steep benefit cuts, or prevent really steep tax increases from having to happen immediately. When will people see higher payouts? Biden also said on Sunday that more than 2 million Americans will receive a lump sum payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in the benefits they should have gotten in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre going to begin receiving these payments this year, Biden announced at the ceremony. He also said people affected by the changes would see their own benefits increase by an estimated average of $360 per month. Thats a big deal in middle-class households, Biden 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. Jan. 7President Joe Biden on Monday announced that he is withdrawing vast swaths of the coastal U.S. from future oil and gas drilling, including in and near Alaska's Bering Sea, citing environmental and economic risks. President-elect Donald Trump has already indicated he might seek to stop the action, though he may not be able to do so. News of the action generated strong responses, including a profanity-laced statement from Alaska's newly sworn-in U.S. representative. Republican U.S. Rep. Nick Begich III called the outgoing president a "son of a bitch" on social media Sunday, a day before the announcement, as news stories of the planned action circulated. A spokesperson for Begich defended the choice of words as a sign of his passion for Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Begich also incorrectly suggested the withdrawals would imperil natural gas in Cook Inlet, putting at risk residents in Southcentral Alaska who rely on the fuel for heat and power. The region faces a looming shortage of natural gas from the aging Cook Inlet basin, forcing companies to look to expensive imports of gas, and regulators to raise concerns about potential brownouts. The presidential action does not affect Cook Inlet, according to details released Monday. Oil companies have shown little interest in acquiring leases in the federal offshore waters of Cook Inlet. In 2023, the Biden administration canceled plans for a Cook Inlet lease sale in the federal government's five-year offshore oil and gas leasing program. In Alaska, Biden's action withdraws 44 million acres from future oil and gas leasing, in and near the Bering Sea waters off Western Alaska, hundreds of miles away from Cook Inlet, according to the presidential memorandum for the withdrawal and an associated map. The protections apply to the remaining portions of the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area, established in 2016 by an executive order from former President Barack Obama. The executive order was revoked by Trump in his first term, and reinstated by the Biden administration. The area is home to "one of the largest marine mammal migrations in the world" involving whales, walruses traveling through the Bering Strait to feed and breed in Arctic waters, according to the memorandum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More broadly, Biden also announced similar restrictions for the entire U.S. East Coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific off the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California, according to a presidential memorandum for the action. All the withdrawals from offshore drilling, including the one in Alaska, impact more than 625 million acres of the U.S. ocean. The actions are taken under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Begich's post on the social media platform X included a map of all regions of the U.S. outer-continental shelf. The map shows a much larger area, 3.2 billion acres, than the presidential actions affect. Begich's post also said, "Biden To Ban Offshore Drilling In Atlantic, Pacific," and linked to an article from a website that said Biden would attempt "to sabotage Trump's plans to 'Drill Baby Drill.' " Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Joe Biden is a son of a bitch," Begich's post said. "Hundreds of thousands of Alaskans rely on natural gas from the Cook Inlet to heat and electrify their homes, churches, schools, and workplaces. Actions like this should serve as a permanent reminder that the Democrat machine is more than happy to sacrifice us all in the name of their sanctimonious, socialist-driven, climate science religion." Begich, asked on Monday why he suggested that the decision involves Cook Inlet, did not directly answer the question. Begich instead provided a statement through spokesperson Silver Prout. "Executive actions impacting American resources taken under the cover of 'climate resilience' should be revoked, and it is my belief that actions that lock up American resource development should not be subject to executive fiat," Begich said. "While I am a strong believer in science-based decision making, using the excuse of climate change to close off American energy production only ships more production to jurisdictions with low environmental standards, increases the costs of living on working families, and unnecessarily exerts drag on our economy," the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Low interest in federal leases in Alaska is less attributable to their prospect potential and much more attributable to the adversarial positioning of federal bureaucracies which are generally more interested in discovering creative ways to say 'No' than in partnering on finding ways to say, 'Yes,' " the statement said. Asked about his use of profanity to describe the president, Prout replied in a text, "it is clear to see here that Congressman Begich is extremely passionate about fighting for Alaska's future, and he will continue to exemplify that fighting spirit in Washington." Republican U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan of Alaska also criticized the decision on social media Monday, saying on X that Biden "has cemented his legacy as the worst president in American history on energy." Alaska Republican U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said on social media that she understands the desire of Alaska tribes in the Bering Sea region to prevent oil and gas activity there, though it's unlikely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the actions represent continued limits on offshore areas in Alaska, "while nothing is done to promote development" such as in Cook Inlet, where she said the Biden administration has worked against natural gas production. "I also object to the manner in which this announcement was made post-election, at the 11th hour, and unilaterally through executive action," Murkowski said. Alaska Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy called the executive decisions "short-sighted and harmful." "I look forward to the next administration reversing this misguided policy and standing up for Alaska's right to develop its resources for the benefit of our people and our nation," Dunleavy said in a social media post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alaska Native groups from Western Alaska and conservation groups expressed support for the actions. The Bering Sea Elders Group and two regional tribal consortiums from Western Alaska, Kawerak and the Association of Village Council Presidents, said in a statement that they deeply appreciate the presidential actions. Representatives with the groups said they hope the action ends any question about future oil and gas operations in the waters near their communities. "Our traditional waters of the Bering Sea are interconnected, and protecting these waters helps ensure our food sovereignty, our cultural, economic, physical and traditional existence, and our very survival," said Jaylene Wheeler, executive director of the Bering Sea Elders Group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joseph Gordon, with Oceana, called the actions an "epic ocean victory" and said in a statement that Republican and Democratic presidents have taken similar actions to protect U.S. offshore waters from drilling. "Our coastlines are home to millions of Americans and support billions of dollars of economic activity that depend on a clean coast, abundant wildlife, and thriving fisheries," the statement said. "This critical action is a major win for coastal communities, marine wildlife, and our collective future," said Ben Jealous, Sierra Club executive director, in a statement. "In using the power of the presidency, the same authority used by his three immediate predecessors, President Biden is acting to safeguard the public health of coastal communities from the dangers of offshore drilling along with the marine wildlife that live in these waters." Trump on Monday told a conservative radio host that he would overturn the action on Day 1 of his presidency. But repealing the decision will require an act of Congress. MARSHALL COUNTY, Miss. Tonight WREG is pushing for answers after a police chase turned deadly in northern Mississippi over the weekend. We now know a Byhalia Police officer was chasing an SUV that collided with a truck in Marshall County. Marshall County Sheriff investigators who are handling the case said police were pursuing a 30-year-old man named Jaqua Blueitt who ended up passing away. A 63-year-old man named Michael Crutcher was also killed in the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two other individuals are in critical condition. Neighbors around St. Paul Road and Dockery Drive where the crash happened around 8 p.m. on Saturday said the collision sounded like a cannon going off, shaking homes. ORIGINAL STORY: Marshall Co. Sheriff: Police chase led to fatal crash We just heard a big boom, we looked out the door, we see the police coming down the street and we looked over here and we see the car was on fire, witness Taderio Woods said. Woods said he tried to do what he could to help. So instantly I went to grab my water hose to try and put the fire out but the police told us to stay back because it was an investigation or something going on, Woods said. The officer kept saying theres nothing he can do, he couldnt do anything because he was by himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the investigation, Woods said people came to the scene, looking for answers about those involved. The young guy came up and said that was his uncle and his uncle was the only person that he had in this world, Woods said. Woods later realized he knew one of the victims who died, Michael Crutcher. Oxford man killed in crash on MS highway When I heard it was him in that truck, that did something to me because Mike aint never did nothing, Woods said. All he ever did was try to help everybody. Investigators say Crutcher was a passenger in the truck that was hit by an SUV. That SUV pursued by a Byhalia Police officer was driven by 30-year-old Jaqua Blueitt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But why Blueitt was being chased in the first place is something Woods wants to know. All we know is that two people died on our street, Woods said. Police officers need to stop chasing folks. Even though this is a small county and everything and theres not too much going on, if you just get their tag number, its 9 times out of 10 youre going to see them again. WREG has asked why the pursuit and for the Byhalia Police Departments chase policy. We are waiting to hear back. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HAWAII, Hawaii (KHON2) The Hawaii Police Department is issuing a warning to the public after receiving reports of unknown individuals calling Big Island residents posing as HPD officers. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The scammers are informing residents that they are from HPD and calling in regards to an important ongoing legal matter. In some instances, the scammers are asking residents to buy Apple gift cards in order to resolve the imaginary legal matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Big Island police asking for publics help locating missing woman To prevent yourself from falling victim to these scams, HPD is suggesting the following: Verify the callers identity by requesting the full name, identification number and contact information of the caller. Actual law enforcement officers will provide this without hesitation. Credentials can also be verified by contacting HPD at (808) 935-3311 or the agency they claim to represent. Refrain from sharing personal information such as banking details, Social Security number or other sensitive data over the phone unless you are absolutely certain about the identity of the caller. Beware of urgent or coercive tactics created by scammers. They often create a sense of urgency, or threaten arrest, fines or other legal consequences to pressure victims into revealing personal information. Educate yourself and others by sharing this information with your community. Know that HPD will never ask for payment of any kind over the phone. If you receive a phone call of this nature, HPD is advising residents to hang up and call police dispatch 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. The Supreme Court receives thousands of petitions each year but only agrees to hear a fraction of them. Sometimes this means the court overlooks important legal issuesthe justices have avoided major cases on the Fourth Amendment in multiple recent terms, for example. More often than not, however, the court dispenses with a variety of petitions that arent worth its time or energy. Alabama v. California falls into the latter category. A coalition of 18 Republican state attorneys general is trying to block Democratic state attorneys general from suing oil and gas companies under their own state laws in their own state courts. The case is instructive not because it is a particularly strong lawsuit but because it shows how conservatives will try to use the courts in the years to come. The Supreme Court has two forms of jurisdiction over lawsuits. Nearly all cases heard by the justices fall under its appellate jurisdiction, meaning that the lawsuit was originally filed in a lower state or federal court. Nearly every Supreme Court case that you have ever heard of was first tried or considered by a lower court, then subsequently reviewed by the justices on appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The high court also occasionally hears cases under its original jurisdiction, with the plaintiffs filing the lawsuit directly before the justices to hear it in the first, or original, instance. Original jurisdiction cases are rare because the Constitution limits them to a narrow series of disputes. One of themindeed, the only relevant one these daysis when two states sue each other. This case did not truly begin with a dispute between two states, however. It instead arose because of a dispute between a half-dozen Democratic-led states and the oil industry. In September 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the Golden State would sue five major oil producersBP, Exxon, Chevron, ConocoPhilips, and Shellin California state courts for what the state described as more than 50 years of deception, cover-up, and damage that have cost California taxpayers billions of dollars in health and environmental impacts. State officials termed the lawsuit as State of California v. Big Oil. For more than 50 years, Big Oil has been lying to uscovering up the fact that theyve long known how dangerous the fossil fuels they produce are for our planet. It has been decades of damage and deception, Newsom said in a statement when the lawsuit was announced. Wildfires wiping out entire communities, toxic smoke clogging our air, deadly heat waves, record-breaking droughts parching our wells. California taxpayers shouldnt have to foot the bill. California is taking action to hold big polluters accountable. The lawsuit is still ongoing after a San Francisco court rejected a motion to dismiss by the oil companies in October. It is one of multiple cases brought by Democratic state attorneys general against the industry in recent years, seeking financial damages and other penalties for the impacts of climate change. Similar state-level cases have been filed by attorneys general in Connecticut, Minnesota, New Jersey, and other states; Alabama is also trying to block their legal efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early 2024, the oil companies asked the Supreme Court to transfer the cases to federal court, but the justices turned them down without comment. Enter the Republican state attorneys general. Alabama and its allies filed a bill of complaint against California under the Supreme Courts original jurisdiction last May, directly asking the justices to intervene and block the lawsuits. Their legal theory is that California and other states want to dictate the future of the American energy industry by imposing ruinous liability and coercive remedies on energy companies through state tort actions governed by state law in state court. Alabama frames this possibility in apocalyptic terms. In essence, [California and its co-defendants] want a global carbon tax on the traditional energy industry, the state claimed. Citing fears of a climate catastrophe, they seek massive penalties, disgorgement, and injunctive relief against energy producers based on out-of-state conduct with out-of-state effects. On their view, a small gas station in rural Alabama could owe damages to the people of Minnesota simply for selling a gallon of gas. If [the defendant states] are right about the substance and reach of state law, their actions imperil access to affordable energy everywhere and inculpate every state and indeed every person on the planet, Alabama continued. Consequently, [they] threaten not only our system of federalism and equal sovereignty among states, but our basic way of life. To call this overstatement would be an understatement. Much of Alabamas brief reads like a paean to oil and gas companies themselves. The improved industrialization made possible by oil-derived plastics, for example, enabled unprecedented improvements in sanitation, public health, and medical treatments, Alabama claimed. Americas air is cleaner than a century ago thanks in part to the increased use of oil and natural gas over coal and other biomass fuels, the state added, arguing that a decline in air and water quality in some places after the industrial revolution was primarily due to the dramatic increase in overall population and energy consumption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California and its allies, for their part, compared the oil companies to other massive corporations that were brought to heel by state-level lawsuits for their wrongdoing, such as the tobacco companies in the 1990s and the pharmaceutical companies behind the opioid epidemic this decade. Each [lawsuit] responds to a decades-long campaign of misinformation and deception by the corporate defendants about the harmful effects of their products, California said in its reply brief. States generally cannot intervene in other states internal legal battles. Alabama and its allies tried to get around this obstacle by arguing that it had standing because it might collect less tax revenue from the oil industry if Californias lawsuit succeeds. For some of Alabamas allies, the oil industry is a major part of the state economy. By imposing new costs on sellers and producers of energy, [California and its allies] will do economic damage to the citizens of [Alabama and its allies] by depressing wages and employment in industries that depend upon affordable energy as well as by increasing prices for electricity and other consumer goods and services. This is a sweeping theory of standing, to say the least. The Supreme Court would likely hear a great many more original jurisdiction lawsuits if states could sue other states because one of their internal decisions against a company could potentially increase prices or reduce tax revenue somewhere else. That argument also relies on a form of hypothetical and speculative causation that the justices often try to avoid in major cases. In addition, this is also not how original jurisdiction typically works. In the modern era, these cases usually take one of two forms. The most common form is water rights disputes, like last years ruling in Texas v. New Mexico that dealt with groundwater pumping along the Rio Grande. The Supreme Court also occasionally hears disputes over state boundary lines: In 1998, for instance, the justices held that most of Ellis Island is part of New Jersey instead of New York. Original jurisdiction is usually reserved for matters that are central to a states sovereignty and cannot be heard or resolved elsewhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, however, Republican-led states have tried to use original jurisdiction to advance more ideological policy goals. Texas and a handful of allies unsuccessfully sued Pennsylvania and five other battleground states in 2020, hoping to get enough electoral votes for President Joe Biden invalidated that then-President Donald Trump would prevail instead. The state of Utah filed an extraordinary original jurisdiction lawsuit last year against the federal government to try to seize federal lands within the states borders. The states congressional delegation even hinted that war would be justified if it did not acquire the lands in question. Republican-led states and their business allies have also targeted Californias outsize role in the national economy, which allows it to informally set standards for the rest of the nation. The Supreme Court declined in December to hear Ohio v. Environmental Protection Agency, a case in which the Buckeye State effectively challenged the Golden States ability to set vehicle emissions standards for the rest of the country thanks to a carve-out in federal law. Justice Clarence Thomas was the only justice to signal publicly that he voted to hear the case. Industry-level efforts have faced similar levels of skepticism. A pork-industry trade group sued California in 2019 over its animal-welfare requirements for pork sold in the state even though almost no pork is produced in the state. The Supreme Court rejected its commerce clause claims in 2023 in National Pork Producers Council v. Ross, holding that the Constitution did not bar the California law. Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the court, pointedly suggested that the justices were not the proper venue for the industrys grievances. So far, Congress has declined the producers sustained entreaties for new legislation, he wrote. And with that history in mind, it is hard not to wonder whether [they] have ventured here only because winning a majority of a handful of judges may seem easier than marshaling a majority of elected representatives across the street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That dynamic holds even more true for original jurisdiction cases. Republican state attorneys general could theoretically avoid all the time, energy, and probable defeats that come with trying to persuade lower court judges to adopt these legal theories. From their perspective, its like loading up a video game and skipping straight to the final boss. This strategy also reflects an apparent belief in right-wing legal circles that the courts conservative supermajority may be favorable to these claimsa belief that, thus far, has yet to be borne out. If the Supreme Court took up Alabamas complaint, it would represent a fundamental shift in state sovereignty and basic American federalism. Republican-led states would likely pursue a wave of new lawsuits before the justices to change how Democratic-led states are governed and how they regulate various industries. The justices have shown no interest thus far in turning the courts original jurisdiction docket into a forum for these types of partisan political disputes. That Republican state attorneys general keep trying speaks volumes about the balance of ideological power in the American judiciary today. BIG SPRING, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Big Spring Police Department is investigating a shooting that left one person dead Sunday afternoon. According to Big Spring PD, around 2:25 p.m. on January 5, officers were called to Kentucky Fried Chicken, located in the 1700 block of S Gregg. At the scene, investigators found 30-year-old Dustin Aaron Gutierrez in a Dodge truck; Gutierrez was taken to the hospital with a gunshot wound to the head and died after he arrived. A suspect vehicle was identified and through investigative measures and in coordination with multiple agencies: Howard County Sheriffs Department, Sweetwater Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety Rangers Division, Snyder Police Department, Scurry County Sheriffs Department, Comanche County Sheriffs Department, and Erath County Sheriffs Department, around 1:15 p.m. on January 6, the suspect vehicle was located in Comanche County at which time a traffic stop was conducted. The driver, identified as 42-year-old Ruben Drake Silva, was taken into custody on a Murder charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives have found no correlation between Silva or Gutierrez and suspect this to be a random act of violence. This continues to be an ongoing extensive investigation, and no further information is available at this time, the police department said in a news release. A mugshot of the suspect was not immediately 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 Yourbasin. Jan. 6COLUMBUS Senate Bill 54, which includes a measure to create the Ohio River Commission, is on its way to the Governor's desk for a signature, State Rep. Justin Pizzulli, R-Scioto County, announced Monday. More specifically, the bill will create the nine-member Ohio River Commission within the Department of Development to promote economic development, marine cargo terminal operations and travel and tourism on the Ohio River and its tributaries. "The Ohio River is an invaluable asset to my community and the state as a whole," Pizzulli said. "I'm confident this commission will protect and maximize its benefit to all Ohioans." 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. JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) Some local grocery stores are implementing purchase limits, only letting shoppers take home two cartons of eggs as farmers grapple with the bird flu. Its serious business, explained Johnston egg farmer Patti Stamp. Once it happens, you lose your whole flock its make or break for a farmer. A sign at BJs Wholesale Club in Middletown sets purchase limits. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said more than 10 million birds in commercial and backyard flocks have been hit by the H5 bird flu in the last 30 days. In total, more than 130 million have been affected in all 50 states as of Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were signs limiting customers to two cartons of eggs at ALDI stores in East Providence and Johnston, as well as at the BJs Wholesale Club in Middletown. While Stop & Shop hasnt implemented purchase limits yet, there are signs informing customers that prices have gone up due to the bird flu. RELATED: First US bird flu death is announced in Louisiana In a statement to 12 News, a spokesperson said in part, Stop & Shop is seeing supply challenges with eggs as a result of several factors including repeated avian flu outbreaks and increased demand for eggs during the holiday season. Stamp has also noticed the price increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eggs are at an all time high right now, she said. Jumbo whites are selling for $5.99. Ive never sold a dozen of jumbo whites for that price. Eggs are sorted at Stamp Egg Farms in Johnston (Jake Holter/ WPRI-TV) The current strain of bird flu has only been detected twice in Rhode Island, according to the R.I. Department of Environmental Management (DEM). It was first detected in a noncommercial backyard flock in October 2022 and a fox kit in May 2023. The DEM said there has not been a positive commercial poultry case in Rhode Island yet. Like so many other farmers, Stamp is taking extra precautions to keep the virus away from her birds. We do have a viewing window when all is healthy in America, she noted. But as soon as that avian influenza threat came out, no ones allowed me near a coop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Cats can get sick with bird flu. Heres how to protect them 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. REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio (WJW) Cat food recalled due to bird flu contamination, after causing the death of an Oregon house cat, was sold at four locations in Ohio, including two in Cuyahoga County, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Northwest Naturals, based in Portland, Oregon, late last month issued a voluntary recall of its 2-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw & frozen pet food due to contamination by highly pathogenic avian influenza, also known as H5N1 or bird flu, according to a Tuesday news release. Wayne Dawson shares update after surgery and chemo therapy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Northeast Ohio, the cat food was distributed to Hollywood Feed locations along Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere and along East Washington Street in Chagrin Falls, according to the release. It was also distributed to Friendly Paws Pet Supplies & Grooming along State Street in Athens and Mutts & Co. along Graceland Boulevard in Columbus. The food comes in 2-pound plastic bags with Best if used by dates of 05/21/26 B10 to 06/23/2026 B1, according to the release. No photos of the packaging were provided. Anyone who bought the recalled food should throw it away and contact the store for a refund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I-77 North lanes reopen after crash in Richfield The food was sold nationwide through distributors in a dozen states and in British Columbia, Canada. State inspectors are now working with the retailers to ensure the contaminated food is off the shelves. The contaminated food was confirmed in late December to have caused the death of a house cat in Oregon, state authorities reported. The first human death caused by the pathogen was reported on Monday in Louisiana. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A Birmingham man is in custody in connection to a September shooting death. According to the Birmingham Police Department, 41-year-old Brandon Quartrez Jemison is charged with the murder of Damone DTrivoni Gardner. The 34-year-old man was found fatally shot in the 300 block of 27th Street Southwest on Sept. 24. Irondale police officer killed by car while on duty BPD detectives presented case information to the Jefferson County District Attorneys Office on Thursday. Detectives then obtained a warrant for murder against Jemison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jemison is being held in the Jefferson County Jail under no 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 CBS 42. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A Birmingham man died Sunday after he was shot earlier in the day. According to the Birmingham Police Department, officers responded around 2:30 a.m. Sunday to a report of a person shot in the 10 block of 17th Court South. At the scene, they found a man and a woman each suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel took the victims to UAB Hospital. The man, who the BPD identified as 40-year-old James Leon Craig, was pronounced dead around 8:40 p.m. Sunday. The woman was diagnosed with not life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birmingham man charged in relation to fatal shooting The BPD stated its preliminary investigation shows a verbal fight occurred inside Criags residence among several people, leading to shots being fired. Everyone involved stayed on the scene and was question by BPD homicide detectives. The BPD noted the shooting appears to be domestic in nature. A suspect is in custody in connection to the case, but the BPD did not identify them or provide details on charges. Those with information on the shooting are urged to call the BPD at 205-254-1764 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A 77-year-old man was found dead in the East Birmingham neighborhood after being reported missing Monday night. Calvin Bush, 77, was found dead Tuesday morning near the corner of East Lake Boulevard and Tallapoosa Street. Bush, who has dementia, was last seen at 8 p.m. Monday in the area of 35th Avenue North. The Birmingham Police Department is considering Bushs death to be an unclassified death investigation and do not suspect foul play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bush disappeared as temperatures dropped below freezing in the 20s Monday night into Tuesday 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 CBS 42. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The Birmingham Police Department is seeking assistance from the public in locating two suspects involved in a robbery in December. Calera woman charged with child abuse, murder following death of family member On Dec. 30, 2024, two suspects robbed an associate of Wilsons Grocery convenience store at the 1200 block of Five Mile Road. One of the suspects shot the female victim multiple times after robbing her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have any information, contact BPD at 205-254-7777. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) Bishop David L. Ricken officially opened the Jubilee Year of Hope with a Mass at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Green Bay. The Mass that took place on Monday, January 6th, also marked the 25th anniversary of Bishop Rickens episcopal ordination by St. John Paul II in Rome on January 6, 2000. NFL Foundation, Packers, & Bellin Health provide CPR and AED equipment to area schools Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bishop Ricken was one of 12 priests ordained that day as bishops for the New Evangelization and was sent to share the gospel globally. I encourage the faithful of the Diocese of Green Bay to exercise strongly their faith throughout this Jubilee Year 2025. Bishop David Ricken Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) Although most of West Virginia will get a few days break from major snowfall, whats already on the ground isnt going to melt any time soon. The coldest temperatures of the winter so far are expected in West Virginia over the next few days as what some are calling a polar vortex continues to impact the states weather even as Winter Storm Blair moves out of the area. According to the National Weather Service, parts of West Virginia could get a bit more snow on Tuesday and Wednesday, but nothing like on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures, however, are expected to keep dropping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What does a State of Emergency actually mean in West Virginia? Low temperatures across most of the state overnight Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be near or below 10 degrees. The coldest temperatures of the week will be early Friday morning, and several cities, including Clarksburg, will see temperatures approaching 0 degrees, the NWS predicts. National Weather Service forecast for Tuesday, Jan. 7 in West Virginia Temperatures will likely warm up Friday afternoon but remain at or below freezing as another possible round of winter storms hits West Virginia late Friday into Saturday, according to the NWS. So when is the snow in West Virginia going to melt? Probably not for a while. According to affiliate ABC News, polar vortexes like the one currently happening in the U.S. normally cause ultra-cold air to spin around the North Pole but occasionally dip south, bringing extreme cold that can last for weeks. The one impacting West Virginia could last throughout most of January, according to ABC News. 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 WBOY.com. After the news broke that a Virginia nurse allegedly harmed newborns on Monday (Jan. 6), Black Twitter lost their minds. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, 26, was charged with malicious wounding and felony child abuse, as stated in court records and by the Henrico County Police Division. The arrest was a result of the police investigating three different babies that suffered unexplained fractures in the newborn care unit of Henrico Doctors Hospital in Richmond November and December. Black folks on social media didnt take any of this lightlyespecially because The Daily Mail reported that Strotman was allegedly targeting Black newborns. At least one of the babies were Black, as verified by CBS 6. If Im telling you that black babies were tortured by a white nurse and your response is, why are you making this about race? I want you to understand youre part of the problem. Dr. Allison Wiltz (@queenie4rmnola) January 6, 2025 One user, @queenie4rmnola, tweeted out the obvious if the allegations against Strotman are true. If Im telling you that black babies were tortured by a white nurse and your response is, why are you making this about race? I want you to understand youre part of the problem, she stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another user, @MrReynolds52, agreed with her. He also used it as an opportunity to address the political hypocrisy behind the lack of conservative outrage. Arrested for Breaking the Bones of Black BABIES in an NICU at a Richmond, Virginia hospital, Erin Strotman, 26, The Face of EVIL. Where is the outrage from the Republicans and others who are always making loud noise on X about illegal immigrant crime. This is absolute EVIL! @AP pic.twitter.com/ZaVEvlQdqt Mr. Reynolds (@MrReynolds52) January 6, 2025 Where is the outrage from the Republicans and others who are always making loud noise on X about illegal immigrant crime, he pointed out. This is absolute EVIL! Another personality, @TheAfroElite, also tried to take a political angle but got part of it wrong. The medical industry is full of suspected white supremacists, this is why we need a Black hate crime law, they stated. Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman, a 26-year-old nurse from Virginia, has been arrested on charges of malicious wounding and felony child abuse. The medical industry is full of suspected white supremacists, this is why we need a Black hate crime law pic.twitter.com/254nqW9M69 Afro Elite (@TheAfroElite) January 6, 2025 However, there is a Black hate crime lawits called the Civil Rights Act of 1968, which authorizes the prosecution for white supremacists who commit violent acts. In 2022, President Biden also signed into law the first federal legislation to make lynching a hate crime, addressing a history of racist killings in the United States. Nurse ratched Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman is a demon and just as awful as any terrorist/bomber/cyber truck attackers. May Karma find her in prison! https://t.co/lV9kDuzOfl Ibchele (@ibchele) January 7, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another person, @ibchele, was much more concise regarding their view on Strotmans alleged behavior. May Karma find her in prison! they wrote. 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. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The woman who served two decades in prison in a murder case a judge dismissed last year cites other potential suspects in her lawsuit against the state. In 2001, a Clark County jury convicted Margaret Rudin, 81 who reporters at the time dubbed The Black Widow in the murder of her husband Ron Rudin. In 2022, a federal judge vacated her conviction, citing poor attorney representation and possible other suspects. The state and the Clark County District Attorneys Office declined to retry Rudin. In May, Rudin filed a wrongful conviction lawsuit against the state for the more than 8,000 days she sat in prison. Her attorneys filed an amendment complaint on Sunday, laying out other theories of how Ron Rudin died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Margaret Rudin, in fact, did not murder Ron Rudin, did not participate in or plan his murder, and does not know who killed Ron Rudin, her attorneys, Adam Breeden and Corrine Murphy, said in court documents. Margaret Rudin appears in a hearing in 2001. (KLAS) The Rudins married in 1987 after meeting in church. It was the fifth marriage for both. Ron Rudin was worth an estimated $8-$11 million. Several people, including Margaret, were listed as beneficiaries of his trust. Ron Rudin disappeared in December 1994 as Margaret was preparing to open an antique store in a strip mall her husband owned steps from their home near Charleston and Decatur boulevards. No forensic evidence nor any witnesses ever tied Margaret Rudin to Ron Rudins death, documents said. Ron Rudin believed he had many people that might want to harm him prior to his disappearance, the attorneys said. He had security glass at his home and office, was known to wear a bullet-proof vest, and was known to carry a gun at nearly all times even in church, all facts suggesting that Ron Rudin knew that someone other than his wife wished to harm him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorneys allege the person who murdered Ron Rudin could include organized crime connections, women he was having affairs with, or disgruntled employees, documents said. He had always cheated, and every time he would say, Im not going to do it again, Im not going to do it again, Margaret Rudin told 8 News Now in 2022. She described her husband as a paranoid man who had cameras at their now-demolished home. In that interview, Margaret Rudin said Ron Rudin murdered an ex-wife years earlier in the bedroom they shared. In court documents, Margaret Rudins attorneys said police mistakenly thought that the womans blood was Ron Rudins. Her death was officially ruled a suicide. When Ron Rudins body was recovered, there was a bullet exit wound meaning there would be a bullet hole in the wall of the Rudins bedroom or their mattress, but this simply did not exist, documents said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorneys also said Margaret Rudin would not have been able to move Ron Rudins 200-to-220-pound body and put it in a chest on her own. Years after the conviction, one of the lead detectives would admit they had received a tip that men unknown were reportedly seen abducting Ron Rudin from a motel room and leaving with him by car, a description that eerily matches the actual evidence later obtained from Ron Rudins car when it was found, documents said. The federal judge who overturned her conviction wrote there was no evidence linking Rudin to the murder weapon, Ron Rudins abandoned car, or the suspected crime scene. He also said Margaret Rudins defense attorney, Michael Amador, who has since died, did not do enough to defend her. Clark County District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus dismissal means Rudins murder charge and conviction are vacated. The state did not admit her innocence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im very relieved, but I always keep looking over my shoulder, Rudin said after the December hearing. A court date for the civil case was scheduled for Jan. 28. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Blake Lively has filed a new complaint against her "It Ends With Us" co-star Justin Baldoni, stating that his alleged "smear campaign" harmed her businesses. The actress claims Baldoni, his publicist and a crisis PR specialist, orchestrated a reputational attack that caused up to a 78% drop in sales for her brands. Justin Baldoni has since denied the accusations, and his lawyer has revealed plans to release texts between Blake Lively and the actor, challenging her claims of harassment. Blake Lively Claims Justin Baldoni Harmed Her Businesses With 'Smear Campaign' MEGA As previously reported by The Blast, Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and creating a toxic work environment on set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Daily Mail, in her latest legal action, Lively is seeking "punitive damages," alleging that Baldoni orchestrated a smear campaign that severely impacted her businesses. In her initial complaint, the 37-year-old actress claimed that Baldoni, working alongside his publicist Jennifer Abel and crisis PR expert Melissa Nathan, deliberately attempted to tarnish her reputation. On New Year's Eve, Lively intensified her legal battle by filing a more formal complaint, doubling down on her accusations. While her first complaint was filed with the California Civil Rights Commission, her latest legal action was brought to the federal court in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lively asserts that the alleged campaign to damage her image has resulted in ongoing "financial harms." She specifically cites the backlash as a direct cause of significant sales decline for her haircare line, Blake Brown Beauty, and her beverage brands, Betty Buzz and Betty Booze. Blake Lively Claims 78% Drop In Haircare Sales Due To 'Social Manipulation Campaign' MEGA In Lively's lawsuit, she claims that sales of her haircare brand, Blake Brown, plummeted by as much as 78% following what she describes as a "social manipulation campaign." The filing states: "Based on internal sales projections, the sudden and unexpected negative media campaign launched against Ms. Lively depressed retail sales of Blake Brown products by 56-78 percent." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It further reads, "This dramatic drop was completely at odds with the high satisfaction scores that Blake Brown products received in the significant consumer testing performed before launch or its initial success after launch." The Actress Is Seeking 'Punitive Damages' And More In Her Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni MEGA Lively's complaint also alleges that around the same time as the "social manipulation campaign," social media accounts for Lively's brands were "flooded by hateful comments, which began to echo through other social and traditional media outlets." According to the Daily Mail, in the new lawsuit, Lively is asking for "punitive damages" and "money judgment that represents compensatory damages, lost wages, earning, and all other sums of money," along with "interest" on the above "in an amount to be proven at trial." She is also requesting "an award of a money judgment for mental pain and anguish and severe and serious emotional distress, in an amount to be proven at trial." Justin Baldoni Initiates $250M Libel Suit Against The New York Times MEGA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lively's latest complaint was filed on December 31, the same day Baldoni launched a $250 million libel lawsuit against The New York Times over its report covering the actress' initial allegations. In response, the publication issued a statement standing by its reporting and refuting the allegations made in Baldoni's lawsuit. The publication stated that it intends to "vigorously defend against the lawsuit." Meanwhile, Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, revealed that the actor plans to sue Lively directly. Speaking to NBC, Freedman stated, "We plan to release every single text message between the two of them [sic]. We want the truth to be out there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, "We want the documents to be out there. We want people to make their determination based on receipts." Justin Baldoni's Lawyer Plans To Release Multiple Texts To Disprove Blake Lively's Claims MEGA Lively's lawsuit included screenshots of text messages involving Baldoni, Abel, and Nathan, which allegedly outline a coordinated PR effort to undermine the actress. However, Freedman criticized the release of "leaked personal text exchanges," arguing that they lack "critical context." In a televised interview, he also stated that he and Baldoni intend to publish the full-text message history between Baldoni and Blake Lively. One example cited in the case is a screenshot of an alleged conversation where Lively informs Baldoni that she is pumping breast milk in her trailer and invites him to join her to rehearse their lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Daily Mail, in the exchange, Lively reportedly texts, "I'm just pumping in my trailer if you wanna work out our lines," to which Baldoni responds, "Copy. Eating with the crew and will head that way." Freedman contends that this interaction contradicts Lively's claims that Baldoni entered her trailer "uninvited while she was undressed, including while she was breastfeeding." And then I got a job in public radio where I got to see elitism from below. I was a mere entertainer in the midst of serious journalists and scholars, and I was seriously looked down upon by many people whom income from my show was supporting. But then parents of teenagers have gone through the same thing and survived and I did too. I sort of regret that I didn't become truly elite when Minnesota almost became part of New France, this territory having been "discovered" by French explorers, and France battled the English for dominance here but then Louis XV was more interested in sugar from the Caribbean than fur from the North and so he withdrew and Voltaire said, "All we lost was a few acres of snow." This remark still stings, centuries later. We could've grown up speaking French and saying "Joie de vivre" with real elan and "Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose." and "C'est la vie" instead of saying "Well, that's life," which doesn't have anything like the savoir faire of "C'est la vie." And with "C'est la vie," you don't need to stick the "well" in front of it to sound casual. French is an elegant language and we envy it, and if a fellow American tosses off a French phrase such as "S'il vous plait," we see him as an elitist and take it as a cue to drop our own pretensions and admit that we don't like boeuf bourguignon nearly so much as we like meatloaf, that a French label does not make the wine superior. What brings this to mind is the new movie, "A Complete Unknown," which gives Bob Dylan fans the chance to be even more fascinated by their own obsession about the man, as a poet, prophet, visionary genius, and the Voice of a Generation, but to me, a Minnesotan of his era, it's all rather amusing. We knew plenty of male undergraduates in the Sixties who practiced being oblique and self-contradictory and affected mystery. It was a style. There was one at every party in Minneapolis, sometimes two and then one of them had to leave. They wanted to be considered poets, prophets, geniuses, but you need more than ambiguity. The Prophet Bob didn't get where he got by being cryptic, he practiced some classic Minnesota virtues such as steady hard work no writer's block for Bob and industrious touring and being on time for gigs and avoiding addictive substances that make you stupid and then dead, and also tolerating jerks, including ones who love you. He had to work to become iconic in some of his early recordings he sounds a lot like Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel and he had to learn how to sing through his nose so he could be a Bob instead of a Ray and there he is today, a self-invented object of fascination. Minnesotans are not big on fiction though. There probably are people in Hibbing who think, "If Zimmerman had really applied himself, he could've become a terrific neurologist." As I proceed through my eighties, I go back to a Minnesota point of view: life is complicated, take it one day at a time, the urge to be top dog is not a useful ambition, be grateful for what you have and learn to cherish your portion. As the French would say, "Carpe diem." The lust for world domination does not make for the good life. It's the life of the male raccoon who battles for preeminence and winds up in a ditch being pecked at by crows. It's not for sensible people. Be at peace, read books, cherish your friends, take walks, love life until the first coronary walks up and slugs you in the chest. Charisma is pure fiction, and so is brilliance. It's the dummies who sit on the dais, and it's the smart people who sit in the dark near the exits. I had to make many mistakes to learn all that and now I've saved you the trouble of doing likewise. You're welcome. Garrison Keillor is an author and radio personality. His latest book is "Cheerfulness". Buy it at a 38% discount! by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR. Colorado Springs police on Monday released new details surrounding an officer-involved shooting that left a female suspect wounded on Dec. 17. In a video briefing, Patrick David, Commander of CSPDs Professional Standards Division, recited the events leading up to the shooting and provided body-worn camera footage. At about 3 p.m. on Dec. 17, officers were dispatched to a home in the 5600 block of South Buckskin Pass after a caller stated his ex-girlfriend was at the residence "ringing the doorbell and excessively knocking." The caller also told law enforcement the woman had an outstanding arrest warrant. Police were familiar with the suspect due to prior calls for service involving the reporting party and the suspect, David said. Officers were also aware that the suspect had been known to carry a gun. The first arriving officer attempted to speak with the woman as she began walking away from the home. She then turned around, pointing a handgun, at which time the officer fired three times, hitting the suspect twice, David said. Warning, violent footage: Body camera footage shows an officer getting out of his vehicle and calling out to a woman as she walks away from a residence. Maam, I need to talk to you really quick, the officer says as the woman continues to walk away. Youre not free to leave. Featured Local Savings The fleeing woman can be seen pointing what appears to be a handgun. The officer announces the presence of a gun and fires his service weapon three times. The woman can be heard crying out as she falls to the side. In another video excerpt, the officer is heard consoling the crying suspect as another officer applies a tourniquet to her leg. CSPD identified Eric Rusch as the officer who fired his weapon. Rusch is an 11-year law enforcement veteran who has been with the Colorado Springs Police Department for five years, David said. Kari Anstett, 43, has been identified as the suspect. Anstett, who faces several charges including first-degree assault (two counts), violating a protection order, a several unrelated misdemeanors. She was treated at a hospital for her injuries, but was in custody at the El Paso County Jail as of Monday afternoon, on a $17,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 21. The El Paso County Sheriffs Office is investigating the shooting. Once their investigation is completed, the 4th Judicial District Attorneys Office will determine whether the shooting was justified. (Bloomberg) -- It was meant to be a final swing through Tokyo topped with a sushi breakfast to cement closer ties with one of the USs closest allies. Most Read from Bloomberg Instead, Secretary of State Antony Blinken got a rebuke from Japans foreign minister and ignored reporters questions, after President Joe Bidens decision to label Nippon Steel Corp.s attempt to buy US Steel Corp. a national security risk soured relations at a stroke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It may have been even more awkward for Blinken given that he was among senior officials who had tried to convince Biden to allow the deal to happen with caveats, according to people familiar with the internal deliberations. Instead, Biden blocked the deal last week, casting a shadow over Blinkens meetings with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya on Tuesday. Our economies are extraordinarily intertwined, Blinken said after his talks with Ishiba. We are the largest investors in each others economies. We work together to strengthen and build more resilient supply chains, critical mineral security, shaping the rules of things like artificial intelligence. The remarks were jarring coming so soon after Bidens decision to bar a Japanese company from making a major investment in the US. Had it occurred, the sale would have been worth $14.1 billion. Blinken didnt address the move in his comments and walked away as reporters asked questions about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a press conference later, Iwaya said he had raised the issue in his lunch meeting with Blinken. I said it was extremely regrettable that the decision was made to prohibit the takeover due to national security concerns, Iwaya said, adding that the deal wouldve benefited both countries. An account of Blinkens meeting with Ishiba released by the Japanese foreign ministry hinted the subject came up in their closed-door discussion. Both men confirmed the importance of the Japan-U.S. economic relationship, including investment in the U.S. by Japanese companies, the account stated. On Monday, Ishiba said he wanted an explanation from the US on why the proposed deal for US Steel entails national security risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The assertion is particularly hard to understand for Japan because of its close security ties with the US. Around 50,000 US troops are based in Japan, the largest permanent contingent outside the US. Relations have grown closer over shared concerns about China, which is a far more frequent target of US accusations about security risks. Despite the uncomfortable undercurrent caused by the Nippon Steel issue, Iwaya also highlighted the otherwise close relationship between the nations. Among other issues, military coordination and training has deepened in recent years. The Japan-US partnership grew stronger than ever in the past four years, Iwaya said during opening remarks at his luncheon with Blinken. There may be further friction over the thwarted steel deal. Earlier on Tuesday, Nippon Steel Chairman Eiji Hashimoto said the company wasnt giving up on the proposal, shortly after it and US Steel filed US lawsuits to rescue the acquisition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, its highly unlikely the plan will go through. President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to return to the White House in about two weeks, has also vowed to block the deal. Blinken also met with Japans national security adviser and other senior officials on a final visit to the region as secretary of state that may have been more eventful than he might have liked. During a visit to South Korea on Monday, North Korea launched what Pyongyang later claimed was a new type of hypersonic missile to keep any rivals in the Pacific region in check. (Recasts, updates with Iwayas remarks, Ishiba meeting details) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (This Jan. 7 story has been corrected to fix Japan's Foreign Minister's name to Takeshi, not Takashi, in paragraph 3) By David Brunnstrom, Simon Lewis, Trevor Hunnicutt and Tim Kelly TOKYO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The foreign ministers of Japan and the United States said their countries' ties were stronger than ever on Tuesday, even after Japan's prime minister called U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to block Nippon Steel's $14.9 billion bid for U.S. Steel "perplexing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden's move last Friday was a jolt to U.S. efforts to boost ties just as neighboring South Korea's political crisis potentially complicates a deepening trilateral relationship between Washington, Seoul and Tokyo formed to counter China's growing military power. On Monday, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed confusion over Biden's decision, but after meeting in Tokyo on Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japan's Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya hailed bilateral ties as stronger than ever. In remarks to the media, at which no questions were taken, Blinken did not mention Nippon Steel, but a statement from Japan's foreign ministry said he and Iwaya "exchanged views on the economy, including on the acquisition of United States Steel Corporation by Nippon Steel Corporation." It said they "reaffirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. economic relations, including investments by Japanese companies in the U.S." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken said the two countries were "leading the way" in cooperation between like-minded countries and added: "I have great confidence that will continue for many, many years to come." After meeting Ishiba at his residence, Blinken did not respond to questions shouted by reporters about the potential impact of Biden's decision on bilateral ties. Analysts say that while it could have a chilling effect on Japanese investment into the U.S., any damage to their wider relationship will probably be limited given the two countries' shared security concerns about China. Business lobbies in both Japan and the U.S. have pushed hard for the merger, backing their arguments up with warnings about the effect on the vital U.S.-Japan relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it still faced opposition from both Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20 and was assiduously courted by Japan in the run up to his re-election. Ahead of his trip, the State Department said Blinken wanted to build on the momentum of U.S.-Japan-South Korea trilateral cooperation. In Seoul on Monday, Blinken reaffirmed confidence in South Korea's handling of its political turmoil as investigators there sought to extend a warrant for the arrest of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Trump's allies have also reassured Seoul and Tokyo he will support continuing efforts to improve ties and advance military, economic and diplomatic cooperation to counter China and North Korea, Reuters reported ahead of the U.S. election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TENSION, LIMITED DAMAGE FROM NIPPON STEEL DECISION Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel filed a lawsuit on Monday charging that Biden violated the U.S. Constitution by blocking their merger through what they termed a sham national security review. They called for the U.S. federal court to overturn the decision. A Japanese diplomat told Reuters Biden's move could chill foreign direct investment, but hoped close U.S.-Japan relations would continue, with a strong emphasis on re-establishing the strong ties with Trump seen during his previous administration, and taking advantage of the increasingly hawkish mood in Washington on China. Nicholas Szechenyi, a Japan expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Japan would not let the decision poison the U.S.-Japan relationship. "It's too important for Japan's national security," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump reiterated after his election win that he was "totally against" the merger and vowed to block it as president and support U.S. Steel with tax breaks and tariffs. A former senior official in Trump's first administration told Reuters he believed Trump would have taken the same approach as Biden. Marc Busch, a fellow at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, forecast "significant fallout" for U.S. efforts to work with allies to create resilient supply chains in the face of Chinese dominance or competition in key areas. "Japan and other allies will have doubts about investing in or aligning with politically sensitive U.S. supply chains," he said. "China must be chuckling to itself that it could never have hoped for a better outcome." (Reporting by David Brunnstrom, Simon Lewis, Andrea Shalal, Steve Holland, Trevor Hunnicutt, Alexandra Alper, Richard Chang and Tim Kelly; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan, Kate Mayberry and Hugh Lawson) WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Secretary of State Antony Blinken is raising concerns about the growing relationship between Russia and North Korea. It comes as North Korea tested a ballistic missile while Blinken visited South Korea Monday. We condemn the DPRKs missile launch just today, yet another violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, Blinken said. In Blinkens likely last overseas trip before leaving office, he warned of the deepening relationship between Russia and North Korea. It comes as thousands of North Korean troops have joined Russia on the battlefield in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, we have reason to believe that Moscow intends to share advanced space and satellite technology with Pyongyang, Blinken said. Both Republicans and Democrats in Congress say the alliance of the two adversaries is concerning. North Korea is invading Europe right now, which is a testament to this axis of authoritarianism, Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.) said. Massachusetts Democrat Jake Auchincloss says the U.S. should support Ukraine and allies facing threats globally. He says hes concerned about that under President-elect Donald Trump. That requires an America Strong approach with our allies, not an America First approach that retreats behind pretend walls, Auchincloss said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican Congress members, like Michigans Rep. Tim Walberg say they trust the incoming presidents foreign policy. The leadership of this incoming administration will establish the course, Walberg said. Georgia Congressman Buddy Carter says the global threats only add urgency to confirming President-elect Trumps cabinet picks. The longer it takes to have them confirmed, the more were going to be in danger, Carter said. The Senate holds its first hearing for Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth next 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 Queen City News. CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) A special blood drive was held Monday afternoon to honor a Cranston High School East teacher battling leukemia. Col. Jason Lafferty, an Army veteran with 23 years of service and a father of four, is used to giving back to his country, family, and community. But that all changed in August when a cancer diagnosis turned his world upside down. I would rather have gone back overseas than deal with the enemy Im dealing with now, which is leukemia, Lafferty said. It doesnt quit, it doesnt take a day off, and its scary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, Lafferty has undergone three rounds of chemotherapy and had around 30 blood transfusions. He is currently on his fourth round of chemotherapy, awaiting a bone marrow transplant from his oldest son. Its an allogeneic stem cell transplant from my son, who is a genetic match, he explained. Definitely the best gift I could get from my son. Throughout his journey, the community has rallied around Lafferty, going so far as to host a blood drive at the school in partnership with the Rhode Island Blood Center. The event aimed to share Laffertys story and raise awareness about the life-saving impact of blood donations. Q&A with RI Blood Center: How do I become a blood donor? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more stories we can share, the more people were going to be able to help, because its going to resonate within the community, said Daniella Lomba, an account manager with the Rhode Island Blood Center. Anyone interested in donating or checking eligibility requirements can find more information on the Rhode Island Blood Centers website. 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. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) The new board of county commissioners in Trumbull County held its first meeting of 2025 Monday, discussing some of the big projects to come in the new year. With the new year, comes an almost entirely new board of commissioners. We want to show the taxpayers and the staff and everybody at the county that we have a new board and that things are gonna be different up here, said Republican County Commissioner Tony Bernard. New Commissioners Tony Bernard and Rick Hernandez (R) joined Commissioner Denny Malloy (R) at the boards reorganization meeting Monday, where commissioners chose Hernandez to serve as board president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This new board is gonna be a major change in Trumbull County for the positive. Were gonna move the county forward, Hernandez said. Theres a lot of good stuff coming down the pike and I know that one year from today, were gonna be in a much better financial situation than were in today, said Malloy. Were in a good situation now but I see great things for Trumbull County. Commissioners say some of the countys big projects include a new dog pound, coroners office, and 911 center. That takes money and that means budget so were gonna look at the granting process, look for a lot more grants but we do need to move forward with looking at these services for our community and we cant do it in taxing the property owners, Hernandez 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 WKBN.com. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The San Diego County Board of Supervisors punted a vote on who will succeed Nora Vargas as chair after competing motions to elevate either Terra Lawson-Remer or Jim Desmond to the role failed in votes down partisan lines. The deadlock is to be expected in the absence of a critical fifth vote following the former District 1 supervisors decision not to take the oath of office for her duly elected second term, leaving an even split between Democrats and Republicans on the board. Although it appears Supervisor Joel Anderson may end up being a tie-breaker in further discussions on who should fill the boards top position. While he voted for a motion to hand the gavel to Desmond, a fellow Republican and the senior most elected official on the board, the District 2 supervisor abstained in a vote for a proposal to move Lawson-Remer to the top spot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders lament Bidens refusal to declare emergency for polluted Tijuana River Valley As the county currently has no designated successor for Vargas post as chair, Lawson-Remer will preside over the board as the current vice chair, with Anderson moving to acting vice chair from his role as Chair pro Tempore. The board is due to again discuss officially naming a new chair during Wednesdays meeting. Lawson-Remer regardless described the shake-up in county leadership as an opportunity for a fresh start to work with the public to ensure everyone is treated with respect and dignity, in a statement Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The start of the boards new session in lieu of a District 1 supervisor marks the second time in recent years that gridlock caused by a vacancy will likely pose a major obstacle to movement on critical regional issues, such as the homelessness and Tijuana River sewage crises. When former Supervisor Nathan Fletcher resigned amid sexual misconduct allegations, the board was thrown into limbo for months as the county carried out a special election. Montgomery Steppes ascension to the seat later kept the 3-2 Democratic majority in tact. Control over the technically nonpartisan body is now back at stake, and with it, the direction of policy at the county-level. A number of local officials have thrown their hat in the ring for the Democratic-leaning district, including Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre, San Diego City Councilmember Vivian Moreno and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, who officially announced his bid on KUSI Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Who will fill Vargas seat on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors? Chula Vista City Councilmember Carolina Chavez also expressed an intent to run for the now vacant seat in a conversation with Axios San Diego. The Board of Supervisors has two options to fill the seat: call for a special election or appoint a replacement. While the board has yet to decide, the already crowded field has made holding a special election all but certain course of action. The board is set to vote on how to fill the vacancy left by Vargas during their regular meeting on Jan. 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. McDonalds announced on Monday its pulling pack on certain aspects of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work, the latest high-profile corporation to move away from such programs amid changing legal precedent and a cultural backlash against woke agendas thats only set to grow in the coming Trump administration. Executives wrote in an open letter to employees that it was still committed to inclusion, but that the fast-food giant would retire specific diversity goals for senior leadership and end a program encouraging suppliers to increase minority leadership. Among other factors, the Golden Arches cited the shifting legal landscape after the 2023 Supreme Court ruling striking down the use of race-conscious affirmative action in university admissions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other companies have taken a similar course. In November, facing a potential Black Friday boycott led by conservative activist Robby Starbuck, Walmart said it would cut back on racial equity training and funding for anti-racist nonprofits. It also promised to review funding for Pride events and end its participation in the Human Rights Council LGBT+ Corporate Equality Index survey. Earlier that year, John Deere announced it would stop sponsoring social or cultural awareness events and audit training materials, while insisting the existence of diversity quotas and pronoun identification have never been and are not company policy. McDonald's, Walmart, John Deere, and Harley-Davidson are among major firms that have rolled back DEI work in recent months (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Meanwhile, in August, motorcyle manufacturer Harley-Davidson, dropped diversity spending goals and outside reviews of its corporate inclusion levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A similar trend has played out in corporate boardrooms, according to observers, who argue that a brief post-2020 increase in diverse hiring after the George Floyd protests is over. Among the 3,000 largest public U.S. firms, the number of Black directors fell to 12 percent from 26 percent two years earlier, Reuters reports. Donald Trump has vowed to go after DEI programs in education and the military (AP) In addition to adjusting to the post-affirmative action world, corporations may fear a public or political backlash from the ascendant right. Bud Light endured torrents of outrage in 2023 after partnering with influencer Dylan Mulvaney, who is transgender. The anti-woke moment looks set to continue under the incoming Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump suggested during the 2024 campaign hell fine schools that engage in DEI work and used seized funds as restitution for victims of diversity policies. He also claimed that once in office, he will set up an anti-woke task force to monitor the U.S. military. MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) The Alabama Conference of Theatre named its Teacher of the Year to a Madison City School District teacher. Bob Jones Performing Arts Teacher Mary Davis was awarded as the 2024 High School Theatre Teacher of the Year. According to her bio on the Bob Jones High School page, she started teaching Theatre in 2001 in a different school district and then transferred to Bob Jones in 2005. She said she always teaches Beginning and Intermediate Drama, periodically teaches an Advanced Drama class and co-teaches Advanced Production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A main point from her bio is that she is a teacher by choice because I believe it is a calling and not a career. I love my students, and pour into their lives, trying to give them an understanding and appreciation for the theatrical arts while having lots of fun, Davis said. She took to Facebook on Dec. 8, 2024, to announce that she was selected for this award. In her post she wrote that she was nominated by two directors in the state: A former student and a colleague/friend for her 24 years of being a theatre teacher. She shared what the two nominees wrote and you can read those below: Mary Davis is retiring soon, and her work for the Alabama Conference of Theatre deserves this recognition. She works for every student and teacher in the state, not just her district. She maintains a level of excellence in her program that few programs have been able to replicate or consistently maintain over her tenure at Bob Jones. Mary also admits her mistakes and works to do her best to learn and grow as an educator. I hope that ACT will not only acknowledge but will embrace this nomination and the work that Mary has done for ACT for her entire career as an educator. If anyone deserves recognition from ACT it is Mary Davis; her school has represented ACT and won SETC more times than any other school in the state. Excellence deserves to be celebrated, and Mary is a perfect example of that standard. Nomination one Mary Davis deserves the Teacher of the Year award for her unwavering dedication to nurturing creativity, confidence, and collaboration among students and fellow educators. Her exceptional talent for connecting with people ensures that every student feels seen and valued. Mary inspires her students to express themselves and take risks in a supportive environment, cultivating not only talented performers but also resilient individuals. Personally, she has profoundly influenced my love for theater and my commitment to supporting students, and I will be forever grateful for her impact. Throughout her 24 years of teaching, Mary has not only advocated for her own students but for theatre students across Alabama, making her an invaluable asset to the community. Nomination two The Alabama Conference of Theatre reposted Davis Facebook post and said, Bravo to our Teacher of the Year Mary Birchfield Davis! Well Deserved! Congratulations! 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 WHNT.com. Jan. 7WATERTOWN Following Jefferson Community College establishing a presence downtown, Jefferson-Lewis BOCES will move into the Globe Building on Court Street this summer. BOCES announced Monday that it has entered into an agreement with 302 Globe LLC, owners of the Globe Building, that will enable BOCES to expand into downtown Watertown this summer. BOCES said in a statement that it is entering into a multi-year lease with 302 Globe for 13,000 square feet of space in the historic building now undergoing renovations for Career & Technical Education programming, expanding opportunities for high school students to learn job-ready skills and prepare for future career opportunities as the workforce of tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BOCES intends to move into the space by July 1, with students beginning to learn there at the start of the 2025-26 school year in September. "This is an important project for the City of Watertown and we could not be happier to have BOCES's trust and commitment to the City and our development team. Many thanks to all of the government agencies and local lenders that have made this project happen," Daniel Queri, a partner in 302 Globe LLC., said in BOCES's statement. In thanking Queri and community leaders, BOCES District Superintendent Stephen J. Todd said in the statement that BOCES is excited to be a part of Watertown's downtown revitalization: "As BOCES programs continue to grow, we are happy that downtown Watertown will be a part of that growth." Work on the $3 million project continues on turning the longtime vacant Globe Building, formerly a minimall that closed about 20 years ago, into space for BOCES on the ground floor and 11 market-rate apartments on the second floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project is receiving $558,000 from the city's $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative program awarded by Empire State Development in 2017. Michael A. Lumbis, the city planning and community development director, said the news of BOCES moving downtown continues momentum along Court Street and in that part of downtown. "It's going to give this building a productive and active use," he said. In the past year or so, the Watertown Family YMCA opened its $26.5 million aquatics and community center nearby and the city completed a $4 million "streetscape" road improvement project along Court Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other side of downtown, JCC is on the verge of opening its $3.4 million downtown education center on lower Franklin Street. Using $2.5 million in DRI funding, that project also includes relocating the Small Business Development Center from its campus and renting out common space for fledgling entrepreneurs. The company that Queri co-owns has also been part of downtown's resurgence. Less than two years ago, the company redeveloped a three-story brick building at 259 JB Wise Place into office space and upper floor apartments, where the Watertown Local Development Corporation made its new home. Kylee McGrath, the WLDC's CEO, said BOCES will have "a significant impact on downtown," going on to say that it will be "a solid tenant" that will be in the Globe Building for years to come. In July 2023, the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce accomplished a longtime goal by moving downtown into a storefront in the Top of the Plaza, at 105 Court St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chamber president and CEO Kayla Jamieson now looks forward to becoming BOCES's neighbor, adding that will continue downtown's renaissance. "I'm very excited about the news," she said. The Children's Home of Jefferson County and BCA Associates architects also have downtown in recent years. For years, the Globe building housed a minimall and previously was the home of the Globe Store until its closing in 1973. Re-Sale America, a used-goods business, was the last occupant. In its statement, BOCES said its expansion into downtown would not be possible without the support of the city of Watertown, Jefferson County, Empire State Development and the Jefferson County Local Development Corporation. It also expressed its appreciation to Watertown Savings Bank, the WLDC, also known as the Watertown Trust, and the Development Authority of the North Country for their support of this project. Jan. 6WATERTOWN Jefferson-Lewis BOCES announced Monday that it has entered into an agreement with 302 Globe LLC, owners of the Globe Building on Court Street, that will enable BOCES to expand into downtown Watertown this summer. BOCES said in a statement that it is entering into multi-year lease with 302 Globe for 13,000 square feet of space in the historic building now undergoing renovation for Career & Technical Education programming, expanding opportunities for high school students to learn job ready skills and prepare for future career opportunities as the workforce of tomorrow. BOCES intends to move into the space by July 1, with students beginning to learn there at the start of the 2025-26 school year in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is an important project for the City of Watertown and we could not be happier to have BOCES's trust and commitment to the City and our development team. Many thanks to all of the government agencies and local lenders that have made this project happen," Daniel Queri, a partner in 302 Globe LLC., said in BOCES's statement. "Jefferson-Lewis BOCES is excited to be a part of Watertown's downtown revitalization, and we are deeply grateful to Mr. Dan Queri of 302 Globe, LLC, and to all of the community partners and agencies who are making this development possible," BOCES District Superintendent Stephen J. Todd said in the statement. "As BOCES programs continue to grow, we are happy that downtown Watertown will be a part of that growth." The Globe Building was a specific target for redevelopment within Watertown's $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative plan. The $3 million project to transform the vacant and underutilized space into market-rate apartments and commercial space is being supported by $558,000 in DRI funding through Empire State Development. In its statement, BOCES said its expansion into downtown Watertown would not be possible without the support of the city of Watertown, Jefferson County, Empire State Development and the Jefferson County Local Development Corporation. It also expressed its appreciation to Watertown Savings Bank, the Watertown Local Development Corporation and the Development Authority of the North Country for their support of this project. 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. TOPEKA (KSNT) West Ridge Mall is increasing safety efforts this year with the addition of body cameras to its security staff. 27 News reached out to West Ridge Mall Manager Casey Richardson who said each of the security guards inside the building are now equipped with body cameras. This addition was made in an effort to maintain transparency and enhance safety for mall patrons. Security is our top priority at West Ridge Mall, and we are continuously working to enhance the safety and comfort of our tenants, guests, and staff, Richardson said. We partner with Vanguard Elite Security, owned by Kip Walker, to ensure 24/7 professional coverage. They provide two security guards at all times365 days a year, including holidays and severe weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Topeka Roadrunners, Scarecrows returning for ice hockey games Richardson said this move is part of larger efforts to increase safety for people visiting the mall in 2025. Newer security cameras have been installed in the mall along with badge access systems for its guards. These measures represent the first phase of a comprehensive 1-2 year plan to make West Ridge Mall a safe, welcoming environment for everyone, Richardson said. The Topeka Police Department (TPD) and other local law enforcement agencies are also partnering with mall security staff to make it safer for guests and can watch live feeds from each camera in real time. The new updates are also expected to help mall security protect businesses against thefts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These upgrades allow us to identify and track known shoplifters and enforce bans when necessary, Richardson said. We also increase security presence during high-traffic periods and events, often partnering with undercover officers and off-duty TPD and Sheriffs deputies. Major change to daylight saving time in Kansas could come in 2025, what to know People can find West Ridge Mall at 1801 Southwest Wanamaker Road in Topeka. You can learn more about the mall by heading to its website or following it on Facebook. West Ridge Mall sold in September 2023 to Advisors Excel which is set to move some of its offices into the building. The company, headed by Cody Foster and David Callanan, plans to reimagine the old mall in the years to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 body that was found in the Nevada desert this weekend has been confirmed to be a missing 17-year-old girl, whose disappearance made local and national headlines, authorities said. A spokesperson for Clark County confirms to PEOPLE that Jennaleah Jenna Hin, of Henderson, died by suicide from a gunshot wound. Hin, a senior at Foothill High School, was reported missing on Dec. 30, according to a Sunday, Jan. 5, news release from the city of Henderson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said that police had responded on Sunday to a call about a body being found in the desert area east of Desert Sunflower Circle and Spanish Needle Street around 10:42 a.m. local time. When officials arrived, they discovered a "deceased female." At the time, authorities said the girl matched the description of Hin which they confirmed on Monday, Jan. 6, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Fox affiliate KVVU and NBC affiliate KSNV. Related: 30-Year-Old Woman Missing Since Christmas Eve Found Dead in Frozen Lake: 'Heartbreaking Accident' When reached out for comment by PEOPLE on Tuesday, Jan. 7, the Henderson Police Department declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a press conference held on Friday, Jan. 3, Hins parents, the search team and police asked for the publics help and shared their heartache that she was gone. 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. 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. Facebook Jennaleah Jenna Hin Jennaleah Jenna Hin Hin left her home in Henderson in the early evening hours of Dec. 30 following a family dispute, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal and KSNV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When she departed, Hin said something along the lines of, You dont have to worry about me anymore, according to Mark Speer of the nonprofit search group Red Rock Search and Rescue, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. 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. Family members said Hin did not have a phone or money on her when she left, CBS affiliate KLAS reported. Helicopters, drones, K-9s, horses and volunteers from the community and Foothill High School students were involved in the search for the teen, according to KSNV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Missing Teen Likely Found Dead After Brother Tried to Save Him When Kayak Overturned During Hunting Trip Multiple fundraisers have been established by different sides of Hin's family to help pay for her funeral expenses, "Jenna was a beautiful 17-year-old girl with a bright future ahead of her," the organizer wrote on the GoFundMe. "Although she may not have always felt it, she was deeply loved by her Hin family and those around her." And on another fundraiser, she was remembered as "a straight-A student with dreams of becoming a nurse, on track to graduate at the top of her class .... a driven and compassionate young woman with a promising future." If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor. Read the original article on People Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. BOGALUSA, La. (WGNO) Louisiana State Police announced the arrest of Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Truong. On Tuesday, Jan. 7, troopers said the 25-year-old, along with six others, were taken into custody following a comprehensive investigation into a drug trafficking organization that was operating in Bogalusa. The arrests were the results of a joint investigation of the 22nd Judicial District Court District Attorneys Office, the Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrills Office, and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). (Courtesy/Washington Parish Sheriffs Office) 25-year-old Tyrin Truong An investigation revealed the organizations involvement in distributing various controlled dangerous substances including opioids, high-grade marijuana, THC products, and MDMA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Orleans receives additional federal help ahead of Super Bowl, Mardi Gras 2025 Additionally, troopers report that the money made from drug sales were allegedly used to buy firearms for individuals prohibited from having them. Some of the weapons were reportedly linked to violent crimes in Bogalusa. The following have been arrested and booked into the Washington Parish Jail: 25-year-old Tyrin Truong of Bogalusa, Mayor of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041: Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses L.R.S. 14:68: Unauthorized Use of a Moveable L.R.S. 14:83: Soliciting for Prostitutes 24-year-old MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041: Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses L.R.S. 40:979/966: Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule I CDS 24-year-old De-Saleem Wali Pittman of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041: Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses L.R.S. 40:979/966: Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule I CDS L.R.S. 40:966A: Distribution of a Schedule II CDS 22-year-old Dirul S. Pittman of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041 Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses 26-year-old Salehal-Dien Malike Pittman of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041 Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses 51-year-old Tonya Renee Stage of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041 Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses L.R.S. 40:979/966 Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule I CDS 28-year-old Devan Michael Williams of Bogalusa L.R.S. 40:1041 Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses L.R.S. 40:979/966 Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule I CDS After posting a $150,000 bond, Truong was released shortly before 6:30 p.m. Tuesday night and greeted by a sea of his supporters. He declined to comment, walking past the cameras stationed outside the Washington Parish Jail in Franklinton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About half a dozen of them also gathered outside Bogalusa City Hall hours earlier as state troopers continued their investigation inside the building. Im coming to show my support because hes innocent, said Hannah Morris, a supporter of mayor. Hes not guilty of any charges, you know, and Im going to back him to the end because hes innocent. Truong is also being accused of soliciting for prostitutes. His supporters believe hes being framed because of racial bias. Our city has so much racism, so much bigotry, so much hatred, said Bogalusa attorney Tina Ratliff. Theres such a division of white and black even in the areas that we live. Theres so much that its an embarrassment now. During a Tuesday press briefing in New Orleans, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said additional arrests are likely. It is an ongoing matter, and I think that youll continue to hear us address problems in the city of Bogalusa, said Murrill. Troung was elected in 2022 in a victory over former Mayor Wendy OQuin Perrette. Truongs supporters credit him for reducing the citys crime and providing resources for children. [If] we lose him, weve lost a good thing, said Morris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orleans Parish District Attorneys Office announces death of colleague On Wednesday morning, Jan. 7, Truong made posted a statement on the matter to his personal social media page Each morning since taking this job, I have recited the first three verses of Psalm 27 and today is no different. I love this scripture so much that it was forever etched on my arm back in college. When youre cutting contracts, shutting down favors and exerting influenceshaking up things and exposing truthsyou become a target. I pray that God reveals every person that had a hand in this, and there are many. I thank my family, friends and multitude of supporters for your outpouring of love. If you think I ran a drug operation (and all those other accusations), youre sadly mistaken. Those who know me, KNOW me and Ill let God and my attorney handle the rest! Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Truong WGNO reached out to a few members of the Bogalusa City Council. Councilwoman At-Large Penny Douglas replied via text message, no comments. Lousiana State Police will head the investigation. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. Boston Public Schools superintendent Mary Skipper is recommending the permanent closure of Excel High School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year as part of a wide-ranging rehaul plan for the district. The school would close as part of the process of implementing the Boston School Committees Long-Term Facilities plan, Superintendent Mary Skipper said in a letter to families Monday night. Skipper says the Long-Term Facilities plan, which, if approved, will begin on January 22, includes a number of school closures, a merger, and plans for grade reconfigurations and hopes to be in place by the 2026-2027 academic year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand that news of closures can bring a range of emotions for students, families, and staff. We also know that these steps are necessary to ensure that every student has a high-quality seat in each of our schools with high-quality options close to home. We have been in close contact with your school leader, Nachelle Gordon, and will have district support at your school tomorrow as you process this news, Skipper said in a letter to school families. Throughout the transition process, we commit to working closely with each and every Excel family and providing personalized support to help identify schools that best meet each students needs and aspirations, Skipper continued. The Boston Teachers Union said in a statement that Excel High is one of four schools that BPS plans to shutter. For far too long, many students in Boston have been denied equitable access to modern, sustainable, well-ventilated, and learning-centered school buildings like those that students in other districts benefit from. School closures are always disruptive to students and communities. District officials must ensure that school closures, regardless of their rationale, are paired with a more aggressive and detailed commitment to the construction and renovation of new, modern, world-class learning environments for our students, the teachers union said in a statement. To achieve the stated goals of the districts own long-term facility plan to ensure a high quality student experience close to home it is imperative that the district commit to completing the construction of at least three buildings annually and should detail such a plan to the public in the coming weeks, not years. The conversation cannot be simply about whether to retain or close poorly crumbling and dilapidated buildings the conversation must be about how soon the district can complete the construction and renovations necessary to provide high-quality learning environments for every single BPS student, without exception. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Skipper are expecting to discuss the proposals during a virtual briefing on Tuesday morning. 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 pharmaceutical company in Bothell has agreed to pay $4,068,698 to settle allegations it used falsified research to obtain grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), according to the Department of Justice. The company, Athira Pharma, is accused of failing to disclose that its former CEO had committed research misconduct. The research in question focused on age-related cognitive decline, such as Alzheimers disease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, Tessa M. Gorman, stated that when applying for federal funding, Athira did not inform NIH about allegations that its then-CEO had falsified images in her doctoral dissertation. Those images were included in the research used to support the grant applications. According to court documents, the company failed to disclose that its former CEO, Leen Kawas, manipulated scientific images in her doctoral dissertation and in published research used to support grant applications submitted to the NIH. Athira allegedly violated its regulatory obligations to disclose the allegations, including in grant applications, progress reports, and statements of research conduct, between January 1, 2016, and June 20, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The allegations came to light through a qui tam lawsuit filed by Andrew P. Mallon, Ph.D. As a whistleblower under the False Claims Act. Mallon will also receive $203,434 from the settlement. The research into neurological disorders such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons Disease is critical to growing numbers of patients in our community. That research must not be tainted by the misconduct highlighted in this case, U.S. Attorney Gorman stated. She added that Athira immediately notified NIH of the research misconduct once its full board of directors learned of it, stating that the companys transparency significantly helped Athira mitigate its damages and demonstrated its resolve towards coming into compliance with the relevant law and regulations. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Departments Civil Division, said the settlement shows that the department will pursue grantees that undermine the integrity of federal funding decisions. COURTESY NICK WENDRYCH A still image of drone footage from the Jan. 1 fireworks explosion, left, at Keaka Drive. 1 /2 COURTESY NICK WENDRYCH A still image of drone footage from the Jan. 1 fireworks explosion, left, at Keaka Drive. GoFundMe Sammi F. received burns on 72 % of his body, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser on his behalf. 2 /2 GoFundMe Sammi F. received burns on 72 % of his body, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser on his behalf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement COURTESY NICK WENDRYCH A still image of drone footage from the Jan. 1 fireworks explosion, left, at Keaka Drive. GoFundMe Sammi F. received burns on 72 % of his body, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser on his behalf. A 3-year-old boy is the fourth and youngest person to die from injuries sustained in the catastrophic explosion of a large cache of aerial fireworks at an Aliamanu New Years Eve party. The Honolulu Medical Examiners Office identified him as Cassius Ramos-Benigno, one of several members of the Benigno family to be injured and the third to die from those injuries. His grandmother and great-aunt were the only two people who died at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramos-Benigno died at 1 :30 a.m. Monday. He had been hospitalized at Kapi olani Medical Center for Women & Children. This was an immense tragedy for our community, said Dr. James Ireland, director of the Honolulu Emergency Services Department. Now that a child has died, its compounded it a hundredfold. It just made me so sad when I reflected on that night. (First responders ) did everything they could to save everyone there. He estimated Monday, after consulting with hospital officials, that roughly 35 to 40 people were wounded and taken to hospitals after the 12 :01 a.m. Wednesday mass casualty event. Ireland said Ramos-Benigno was the only child taken by ambulance to a hospital from the scene at 4411 Keaka Drive. A total of 13 ambulances transported 21 people to hospitals. Of that number, 19 were in critical condition with burns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Aside from Ramos-Benigno, a 23-year-old woman, Jennifer Van, assistant manager of the Wahiawa branch of Central Pacific Bank, died Wednesday at the hospital. Most remain hospitalized at The Queens Medical Center and Straub Hospital, Ireland said. Six were flown by military transport plane to an Arizona hospital. Many will remain hospitalized for six months to perhaps a year, Ireland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said preliminary information from surveillance footage and witness statements said a person attending the party lit a large cake of aerial fireworks on the driveway fronting the carport where the party was held. The cake fell on its side, and aerials shot into two crates that contained additional cakes of fireworks, setting off a large explosion. The police chief said a cake containing 50 or so individual cartridges of aerial fireworks was lit and tipped over, igniting a cache of fireworks. The injuries included a lot of impalements with shards of glass the size of my hand and pieces of woodwhich EMS personnel left in place for ER doctors to removeshrapnel, fractures, concussive blast injuries and ruptured eardrums, Ireland said. There was a significant blast component, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, others who had minor injuries were taken to hospitals in private vehicles. Before anyone arrived at the scene, people may have just thrown kids and relatives in cars before EMS (Emergency Medical Serv ices ) arrived, Ireland said. He said that of the 10 EMS triaged as minor injuries, they told EMS personnel they were going to drive themselves, their children or friends to the hospital. Had they remained at the scene, EMS would have transported them, he said. Among those in Ramos-Benignos family who were killed at the scene were his grandmother Lita (who has not yet been identified by the medical examiners office ) and her sister, Nelie Turalba Ibarra. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also injured are Litas son Junior and daughter Charmaine Benigno, who was among the six flown to Arizona for treatment for her severe burns. Cousin Rylan Benigno, who set up a GoFundMe page for all at gofund.me /c0f0b895, wrote that of the wounded, Cassius suffered the most extensive injuries with most of his body burned. He said Litas son, Cedric, and his family escaped with minor injuries, but their house was damaged in the explosion. A GoFundMe page was also set up for Sammi F., who received extensive burns to 72 % of his body and was transported to Arizona for specialized medical care. Donations will go to his medical expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sammi is an amazing son, brother, and uncle, wrote Sam Balicoco. He is a brother to all that knows him. Always happy and making everyone laugh. He is good-natured, softhearted, humble, and shows up for his loved ones when need be. One of the best people that one will ever meet. To donate to Sammi F., go to. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM A man, who did not want to be identified, places a tribute in the driveway on Thursday at the house on Keaka Drive where a New Years illegal-fireworks explosion killed several people and injured over two dozen more. Authorities said today that a 3-year-old boy died from injuries sustained from the explosion in Aliamanu, bringing the total to four people killed. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM A man, who did not want to be identified, places a tribute in the driveway on Thursday at the house on Keaka Drive where a New Years illegal-fireworks explosion killed several people and injured over two dozen more. Authorities said today that a 3-year-old boy died from injuries sustained from the explosion in Aliamanu, bringing the total to four people killed. Honolulu police today announced a 3-year-old boy has died from injuries sustained from the New Years illegal-fireworks explosion in Aliamanu, bringing the total to four people killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boy died at approximately 1 :30 a.m. today at the hospital, according to Honolulu police. The Honolulu Medical Examiners Office has identified the 3-year-old boy who died as Cassius Ramos-Benigno. The cause and manner of death are pending. The fatal explosion occurred at a home on Keaka Drive during a large New Years Eve party. At 12 :01 a.m. Wednesday a cake bomb loaded with illegal aerial fireworks detonated, causing massive explosions that initially killed three women and left more than two dozen people injured. The victims had been identified as Jennifer Van, 23, Nelie Ibarra, 58, and her sister, Lita. The explosion caused widespread damage, with vehicles and nearby properties affected. Police are investigating the incident as an unattended death, while the Honolulu Fire Department is assisting with the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Josh Green previously authorized the use of a military jet to transfer six burn victims to Arizona for specialized care, as local hospitals lack sufficient burn unit capacity. to support families of the victims and those injured. 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. 151 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . The Law Department gave city government agencies a detailed briefing Tuesday on New Yorks sanctuary status laws, a move aimed at ensuring compliance with the protections in anticipation of President-elect Donald Trumps planned immigration crackdown, according to multiple sources directly familiar with the matter. General counsels for nearly all city agencies, including the NYPD, were invited to the private virtual briefing, said the sources, who spoke with the Daily News on condition of anonymity. The purpose of the briefing was for the Law Department to give the counsels a broad overview of the existing sanctuary status laws which prohibit city agencies from cooperating with federal immigration authorities in most scenarios with the understanding that they would then train staff on best practices, according to the sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The briefing comes less than two weeks before the second presidential inauguration of Trump, who has vowed to launch mass deportations of undocumented immigrants upon taking office, regardless of whether theyve done anything illegal besides residing in the U.S. without status. It also comes as Mayor Adams, a conservative Democrat, has stated publicly hes looking at whether he can use executive power to roll back some of the immigrant protections included in the sanctuary laws. Adams has argued beefed-up protections enacted by the City Council under ex-Mayor Bill de Blasios administration went too far in barring the Police and Correction Departments from holding immigrant inmates on behalf of federal authorities seeking to deport them, unless they have a judicial warrant and the person in question committed a violent or serious crime. Adams says he believes the city should be able to turn over undocumented immigrants to the feds if theyve been charged with serious or violent crimes, not just convicted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adams spokeswoman Liz Garcia wouldnt say whether the mayors proposals to revise sanctuary protections were discussed in Tuesdays briefing, only telling The News that the Law Department provides privileged briefings to agency general counsels on a regular basis. There are some 500,000 undocumented immigrants living and working in New York City. Thats in addition to the tens of thousands of mostly Latin American migrants who have arrived in the city since spring 2022 as part of a large influx from the U.S. southern border. Last month, Adams met at Gracie Mansion with Tom Homan, Trumps incoming border czar whos expected to take the lead on his mass deportation effort. After their sitdown, Adams told reporters he shares the same goal as Homan and said the city had made terrible mistakes in the past by limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This cant be a safe haven for violent individuals. You have a privilege to live in this country, and those who want to commit acts of violence, they are violating that privilege, Adams said. [Homans] desire is clearly, again, what my target area is. NEW YORK The Law Department gave city government agencies a detailed briefing Tuesday on New Yorks sanctuary status laws, a move aimed at ensuring compliance with the protections in anticipation of President-elect Donald Trumps planned immigration crackdown, according to multiple sources directly familiar with the matter. General counsels for nearly all city agencies, including the NYPD, were invited to the private virtual briefing, said the sources, who spoke with the Daily News on condition of anonymity. The purpose of the briefing was for the Law Department to give the counsels a broad overview of the existing sanctuary status laws which prohibit city agencies from cooperating with federal immigration authorities in most scenarios with the understanding that they would then train staff, according to the sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The briefing comes less than two weeks before the second presidential inauguration of Trump, who has vowed to launch mass deportations of undocumented immigrants upon taking office, regardless of whether theyve done anything illegal besides residing in the U.S. without status. It also comes as Mayor Eric Adams, a conservative Democrat, has stated publicly hes looking at whether he can use executive power to roll back some of the immigrant protections included in the sanctuary laws. Adams has argued beefed-up protections enacted by the City Council under ex-Mayor Bill de Blasios administration went too far in barring the Police and Correction Departments from holding immigrant inmates on behalf of federal authorities seeking to deport them, unless they have a judicial warrant and the person in question committed a violent or serious crime. Adams says he believes the city should be able to turn over undocumented immigrants to the feds if theyve been charged with serious or violent crimes, not just convicted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokesmen for Adams didnt immediately return requests for comment on whether his proposals to revise sanctuary protections were discussed in Tuesdays briefing. Last month, Adams met at Gracie Mansion with Tom Homan, Trumps incoming border czar whos expected to take the lead on his mass deportation effort. After their sitdown, Adams told reporters he shares the same goal as Homan and said the city had made terrible mistakes in the past by limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This cant be a safe haven for violent individuals. You have a privilege to live in this country, and those who want to commit acts of violence, they are violating that privilege, Adams said. (Homans) desire is clearly, again, what my target area is. _____ SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva decided to replace his presidential spokesperson Paulo Pimenta in favor for Sidonio Palmeira, a former advisor who worked with Lula during his successful 2022 presidential campaign. Announcing the change together with Pimenta at a public briefing in Brasilia on Tuesday, Palmeira said he would seek to align the expectations of the government, public management and public perception. The change had been expected for weeks amid growing criticism over the official communications strategy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pimenta had told local newspaper O Globo earlier on Tuesday he would step down, with Palmeira taking over his role from next week. (Reporting by Isabel Teles and Ricardo Brito; Editing by Kylie Madry and Sarah Morland) OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Oklahoma City firefighters responded to an escalator fire at Penn Square Mall early Tuesday afternoon that resulted in a brief evacuation. Oklahoma City firefighters respond to an escalator fire at Penn Square Mall. Photo courtesy OKCFD. Oklahoma City firefighters respond to an escalator fire at Penn Square Mall. Photo courtesy OKCFD. According to OKCFD, initial reports mentioned smoke and fire coming from the second story escalator at Dillards inside the mall. Firefighters say no one was injured and the fire was contained within the escalator. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Boston dance community is coming together to honor a 19-year-old who was murdered over the weekend. Kyre Ambrose was known as a rising star and had been dancing in Boston since he was a child. He was visiting home from college in California for holiday break when he was killed. Prosecutors revealed in court Monday that Ambrose was stabbed 28 times at his mothers home in Brockton just before 2 a.m. Saturday while she was sleeping upstairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 18-year-old Jayden Fernandez pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree murder in Brockton District Court. Investigators have not yet speculated on a motive. Family and friends are focused on the positive memories they have of Ambrose and the legacy he leaves behind. The brightest star in the room. Always laughing. Always joking. Always funny, said Shanta Simmons-Farley, whose daughter attended Boston Arts Academy with Ambrose. A vigil paying tribute to Kyre Ambrose will be happening Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Lena Community Center at 150 American Legion Highway in Dorchester. Every dancer from Boston to Haverhill will be coming, said Simmons-Farley. We need a lot of people who can come wipe tears, give hugs, and just tell these children that everything will be okay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ambroses accused killer is being held without bail. Fernandez is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on February 6th. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) Bristol, Virginia City Council Member Michael Pollard issued a public apology on social media Monday after self-admittedly breaching the councils code of ethics. In the social media post, Pollard claimed he had both violated the code of ethics by sharing information and also criticizing and lying about Bristol, Virginia City Manager and City Attorney Randall Eads. I apologize for publicly and privately breeching the City Council code of ethics, despite multiple warnings in closed meetings with the full Council, for sharing information shared with me in private settings, for publicly criticizing and lying about City employees up to and including our City Manager, Pollard wrote. I will make no further references to the person who is our City Manager here or in private. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nave reappointed as Bristol, Virginia mayor, focused on downtown & VI fire Pollard wrote that on Saturday, he sent a private message over Facebook to a citizen regarding Eads. The message contained numerous falsehoods about Mr. Eads that I knew to be false at the time I wrote the message, Pollard stated. Photo: Bristol Virginia City Manager and City Attorney Randall Eads speaks with News Channel 11 following a public apology made by city council member Michael Pollard. (WJHL) According to Pollard, he has previously been warned by the City Council after violating the standards of conduct on several occasions. On Thursday, Eads was reappointed as the city manager and city attorney after a 4-1 vote. Pollard was the lone vote against reappointing Eads, saying at the time that he believed the roles should be separate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pollards post follows a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request made by Eads on Saturday. On Sunday, Pollard provided News Channel 11 with Eads FOIA request via email. The request asked for any email, text message, social media post or message, notes or documents or recordings pertaining to Eads and his job performance, as well as any documents or recordings of times Pollard sought legal advice for city businesses from someone other than the city attorney. The FOIA request also sought any recordings of Eads, staff members or other council members. Pollard wrote on Monday that Eads has a right to FOIA his documents and said it is not a violation of his privacy to do so given his position as a government official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If I were in his position, I would have probably issued a FOIA as well to see what my boss may have been saying about me that was false and not founded in fact, the post states. Pollard claimed at the end of the post that Eads would not require him to respond to the FOIA request following his apology and admissions. Mr. Eads did not deserve to have the comments I made about him, Pollard wrote. The Bristol Virginia City Council had a closed-door meeting on Monday morning. News Channel 11 spoke with Eads, who did not comment on the nature of the meeting but did acknowledge Pollards post. No, nothing to clear up, Eads said. I think the apology that Mr. Pollard put online is sufficient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News Channel 11 reached out to Pollard for an interview, but the council member declined any further comment. Pollard said the City Council did not take any public action on Monday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Britain is braced for freezing temperatures of as low as -16C in the coming days, with more flooding expected across the country. The Met Office has forecast that most parts of the country will see temperatures drop to between -3C and -10C on Wednesday night. But in some areas of rural Scotland and northern England, the mercury could plummet as low as -14C on Wednesday night and -20C on Thursday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Environment Agency warned the public to remain vigilant and said that melting snow would cause further flooding on Wednesday. A resident talks to a journalist through the window of his flooded home in Loughborough, Leicestershire - Darren Staples More than 300 flood warnings and alerts remain in force in England and Wales, with flooding particularly severe in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Gloucestershire. The most severe flooding was at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where residents have been evacuated after a danger to life warning was issued. The local fire service declared a major incident after rescuing 59 people from floodwater. Neil Monteith, 49, who owns a caravan at Proctors Pleasure Park which has been engulfed by floodwater, said: It is the highest Ive seen it Ive never seen it this bad before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stefan Laeger, the Environment Agencys flood duty manager, urged the public to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through floodwater. Residents at Proctors Pleasure Park, near Barrow upon Soar, in Leicestershire, were evacuated as the floods struck - Joe Giddens/PA Wire A number of NHS trusts in England declared critical incidents amid exceptionally high demands on emergency departments, which a number attributed to the cold weather and flooding. On Tuesday morning, heavy snowfall forced four airports to close their runways. Aberdeen, Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester airports all reopened within hours. Hundreds of schools were also closed across the country in areas including Lancashire, Yorkshire and north-east Scotland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the Met Office issued a new yellow weather warning for ice covering north Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and West and South Yorkshire until midday on Wednesday. Two yellow snow and ice warnings are also in place across most of Northern Ireland and parts of northern and western Scotland until midday on Wednesday. Southern England is also braced for snow, with a yellow weather warning in place from 9am until midnight on Wednesday. The Met Office has warned of the risk of power cuts and vehicles becoming stranded in the snow. 05:06 PM GMT Thats all for today Thank you for following The Telegraphs live coverage of the flooding and snow. This live blog is now closed. 05:00 PM GMT Pictured: Plane lands at snow-covered Manchester Airport A Ryanair plane lands at a snow-covered Manchester Airport - AP Photo/Jon Super Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 04:48 PM GMT New ice warning issued in England and Wales A new yellow weather warning for ice has been issued by the Met Office in England and Wales. The forecaster said ice is expected in north Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and West and South Yorkshire between 5pm today and midday on Wednesday. The Met Office predicted that the ice would impact transport and cause injuries from slips and falls. 04:45 PM GMT In pictures: Snow and flooding across Britain A man wades through the Little Venice caravan park in Yalding, Kent, with his dog - Gareth Fuller/PA Wire A man wraps himself in a blanket at Glenshee Ski Centre in the Cairngorms, Scotland - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images 04:35 PM GMT Firefighters union demands more funding for flood response The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has demanded the Government increases funding for firefighters flood response. Matt Wrack, the unions general secretary, said: With fire and rescue services severely overstretched after years of cuts, it is high time that the vital role firefighters play in flood response is formally recognised and fully funded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To ensure we are prepared for future floods, ministers must act now to implement a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England with the funding and resources urgently needed. 04:20 PM GMT In pictures: Flooding across Britain Proctors Park caravan park near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, is submerged in floodwater - Chris De Bretton-Gordon / Alamy Live News A swan swims by an abandoned car in Wateringbury, Kent, after the River Medway burst its banks - Victoria Jones/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 03:49 PM GMT Britain braces for freezing temperatures as more flooding forecast Britain is braced for freezing temperatures and more weather disruption with flooding set to continue across the country. The Met Office has forecast that most parts of the country will see temperatures drop on Wednesday night to between -3C and -10C. In some areas of rural Scotland and northern England the mercury could plummet as low as -14C on Wednesday night and -20C on Thursday night. It comes as more than 300 flood warnings and alerts remain in force in England, with flooding particularly severe in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Gloucestershire. These include a danger to life warning at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where residents have been evacuated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Environment Agency has warned the public to remain vigilant and said melting snow would cause further flooding on Wednesday. 03:29 PM GMT Man rescued from pub amid severe flood warning in Leicestershire A man was rescued from a caravan park on a raft this morning in Leicestershire. Graham Johnson, who lives in a boat with his wife and dog, was rescued from Proctors Park, Barrow upon Soar, where the Environment Agency has issued a danger to life flood warning. He told Sky News he was at the pub when the water started to rise rapidly, making Mr Johnson and his wife fear their boat was about to be swept towards the bridge. I went out for a couple of pints as usual and the next thing we know, bingo, he said. Thats our pride and joy where we live and we didnt want to lose it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More rain, sleet and snow is set to fall in the area over the coming days. 03:06 PM GMT In pictures: Snow hits Britain Dogs go out for a walk in Saddleworth, on the outskirts of Manchester - AP Photo/Jon Super A dusting of snow on the Liver Building in the centre of Liverpool - ADAM VAUGHAN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock 02:53 PM GMT Public urged to remain vigilant as 300 houses flooded The public has been urged to remain vigilant after 300 houses were flooded in heavy rainfall. The Environment Agency said at least 300 properties have flooded across the country since the New Year. Stefan Laeger, its flood duty manager, said: We urge people to remain vigilant over the next few days and advise anyone travelling to be especially careful and urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car. 02:24 PM GMT Coldest nights of winter to come this week The Met Office has warned the coldest nights of this winter are expected this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures are set to plummet down to -16C on Thursday night in rural areas of Scotland and northern England which have had snow. That would beat the coldest temperature recorded in January last year, which was -14C in Dalwhinnie in the Highlands. These Highland Cattle may have to endure even colder temperatures than the -13.3C recorded in Glascarnoch on Monday night - Peter Jolly 02:11 PM GMT In pictures: Widespread flooding as warnings still in place Flooding on the railway line between Capenhurst and Hooton stations in Cheshire - Peter Byrne/PA Wire A Mercedes is stranded in floodwater in Quorn, Leicestershire, where a major incident was declared - Joe Giddens/PA Wire A man is rescued from the unprecedented flooding in Leicestershire - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 01:41 PM GMT Challenging conditions for emergency services Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services latest figures show it has responded to 380 calls and attended 56 flooding incidents since Monday morning. It said many residents have been evacuated from their homes, boats and caravans during the challenging time. Assistant Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, Judi Beresford, said: We are incredibly proud of our crews, Control and staff for all their outstanding work and efforts during this major incident. We also want to thank the public for their support so far and urge them to continue following safety advice, such as avoiding flooded areas, not driving through floodwater, and checking on vulnerable neighbours. These small actions can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe. Flooding at a caravan park near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, as emergency services carry out one of their rescues - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 01:03 PM GMT Flooding in Leicestershire is unprecedented A woman, who lives near the Proctors Pleasure Park in Leicestershire, called the flooding around Barrow upon Soar unprecedented. The woman, who did not wish to be named, said: Ive never seen it as bad as this. It flooded last January but not like this. They put in new flood defences - it used to flood all the time then it stopped, but this is unprecedented. Its a flood plain, thats what its for but they build houses on it and nobody will acknowledge it or accept it. Neil Monteith, 49, who owns a caravan at the park which has been engulfed by floodwater, said he had never seen flooding as bad as it was today. (The water) is the highest Ive seen it, Ive never seen it this bad before, he added. 12:50 PM GMT NHS Trusts declare critical incidents A number of NHS Trusts in England have declared critical incidents amid exceptionally high demands on emergency departments. Critical incidents can be declared when health and care services are so busy that special measures are needed to restore normal operations and keep patients safe. University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust said a high number of older patients respiratory problems had been exacerbated by the cold weather. In a statement on their website, it revealed more than 300 people attended Derriford Hospital as emergencies on Monday, with almost 200 of those admitted for care as inpatients. Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust urged people to consider other options for non-urgent medical care and warned they will face long waits in A&E as resources are stretched. Both Trusts have declared critical incidents on Tuesday, after NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group made the same decision on Monday evening. 12:17 PM GMT Pictured: Man rescued from Leicestershire caravan park Four members of Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were seen wading through deep water surrounding caravans on Tuesday morning pulling an inflatable raft on which the man sat holding a blue carrier bag. Bystanders watching the rescue said the flooding was the deepest they had seen. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service rescue a stranded resident of a caravan park, near Barrow upon Soar, where a danger to life flood warning was issued - Joe Giddens/PA Wire 11:44 AM GMT In pictures: Commuters brave the elements A vehicle drives through floodwater in Godalming, Surrey, where a number of flood warnings were in place - James Jagger / Alamy Live News Westminster Bridge is likely to see more snow fall throughout the week with the Met Offices yellow warning across southern England to come into play at 9am tomorrow - George Cracknell Wright Foggy conditions in Mossley, near Ashton-under-Lyne, were commonplace in Manchester - Matt Wilkinson 11:18 AM GMT Liverpool Airport reopens but flights delayed Liverpool John Lennon Airport has announced its runway is back open having opened its terminal about an hour ago. However, passengers were warned many flights were not subject to delays as a result of the runway closure. They were also urged to check the status of their flights with their airlines. 10:34 AM GMT New Met Office warnings as snow expected across southern England A fresh warning for snow is due across southern England on Wednesday. The warning covers an area spanning from Cornwall to Kent, with the Met Office predicting 2-5cm of snow and as much as 10cm over higher ground. Forecasters say the weather could prove disruptive, with rain and sleet more likely near coastal areas. Additionally, the Met Office has extended warnings of snow and ice in Northern Ireland from 3pm until midday tomorrow and west and northern areas of Scotland from midday today until midday tomorrow. Tuesdays weather warnings in place, which are set to expire by midday - Met Office Wednesdays Met Office weather warnings which include snow across much of southern England - Met Office 10:08 AM GMT Get in touch 10:00 AM GMT In pictures: Flooding and snowy scenes across the country Flooded fields in the market town of St Ives, Cambridgeshire - Bav Media A driver braves floodwater in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire, where a major incident has been declared - Michael Regan/Getty Images Extensive flooding at Proctors Pleasure Park, near Barrow upon Soar, Leicestershire, where a danger to life flood warning was issued - Tom Maddick / SWNS Residents of the Scottish Highlands town of Aviemore woke to more snow - Euan Cherry Homes across Manchester were also covered in snow, as the citys airport briefly closed for a third day in a row - Phil Noble 09:28 AM GMT Lincolnshire locals waiting for next inevitable incident, says councillor People living in a flooding hotspot are waiting for the next inevitable incident, a local councillor has said. Murray Turner, who is a Liberal Democrat councillor at South Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire, said rescue operations had been going on all day on Monday. He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme the area was also badly flooded in 2023, but no investigation took place to find out how agencies could work together to better deal with it in future. Now, despite much pressure from the local parish councillors and myself as district councillor throughout 2024, those reports have never been received, Cllr Turner said. So whats been happening is were waiting for the next inevitable flooding incident and its producing very bad scenes in the village. Youre walking through silty mud in your front room and youve got no power - its not very good at all. 09:05 AM GMT Emergency services save dozens Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service revealed its crews had saved 59 people from properties across the county yesterday. It was the first organisation to declare a major incident on Monday, having responded to 200 emergency calls by the morning. The Lincolnshire Resilience Forum, which coordinates emergency services in the county, soon followed suit and said it had concern about freezing temperatures forecast overnight and over the coming days. Elsewhere, East Midlands Ambulance Service Trust declared a critical incident on Monday evening for the first time ever. It said a combination of significant patient demand, pressure within local hospitals, and flooding across the East Midlands had led to the escalation. Sadly a mans body was recovered from floodwater in North Yorkshire. Our crews have been busy today responding to multiple flooding incidents with 59 people rescued today from properties. Life at risk? Call 999 Flooded home? Turn off electricity, gas & water Road closed? Find another route Check on vulnerable neighbours pic.twitter.com/lxHJqX8POI Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service (@LeicsFireRescue) January 6, 2025 08:50 AM GMT Airports forced to shut runways Liverpool John Lennon Airport remains closed for snow clearing and anti-icing and is hoping to reopen by 10am. Bristol Airport previously grounded all flights, but has now announced all flights are now operating. Earlier, Manchester Airport had to close its runways for a third consecutive day following more snow. Although they were only shut for several hours, it warned passengers their journeys may be delayed. 08:44 AM GMT Weather disrupting rail services Poor weather is affecting services of Northern, Great Western Railway and Mersey Rail, according to National Rail. Trains unable to call at Rotherham Central due to flooding. Disruption is expected until midday between Peterborough and Leicester, affecting CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway services. Northern said a fault with the signalling system means no trains can run between Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport. Great Western Railway said flooding has closed the line between Liskeard and Looe in Cornwall. National Rail added although ScotRail services were not currently affected, passengers were still advised to check before travelling. 08:30 AM GMT Watch: This mornings forecast A frosty start for many of us on Tuesday morning with some ice in places Wintry showers in some areas with a further covering of snow possible, but also some sunshine at times Feeling cold with brisk winds in some coastal regions pic.twitter.com/sMsEHX6XqB Met Office (@metoffice) January 6, 2025 08:27 AM GMT Danger to life flood warning issued The Environment Agency has a severe flood warning - indicating a danger to life - in place for the River Soar at caravan parks near Barrow upon Soar in Leicestershire. It said it had been issued because a large-scale evacuation was required as the water levels rise following heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt. Consequently, flooding of properties is expected to continue, it added. It has also has 190 flood warnings, meaning flooding is expected, and 292 flood alerts, meaning flooding is possible, active across England. National Resources Wales has 15 flood alerts in place. A map of the Environment Agencys flood warnings and alerts in place - Environment Agency 08:20 AM GMT The current weather warnings in place There are still Met Office yellow weather warnings in place across the UK this morning. A yellow snow and ice warning covering Wales and parts of England including the west Midlands, south-west and Manchester does not expire until 10am. Elsewhere, a yellow warning for snow and ice remains in place in Scotland until midday. All of Northern Ireland is also under a yellow warning for snow and ice until 11am. A further warning for snow across southern England doesnt come into force until 9am tomorrow. 08:15 AM GMT Welcome to the blog Good morning and welcome to our coverage of todays weather. 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 Catarina Demony LONDON (Reuters) - Creating and sharing sexually explicit "deepfakes" will become a criminal offence in Britain, the government said on Tuesday, in a bid to tackle a surge in the proliferation of such images, mainly targeting women and girls. Deepfakes are videos, pictures or audio clips made with artificial intelligence to look real, and such technology can be used to digitally alter pornographic images into the likeness of someone else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Publishing intimate photos or videos without consent and with the intent to cause distress - so-called revenge porn - was criminalised in Britain in 2015, but that legislation does not cover the use of fake images. Data from UK-based Revenge Porn Helpline showed image-based abuse using deepfakes has increased more than 400% since 2017. Under the new offence to be introduced by the government, perpetrators could be charged and face prosecution for both creating and sharing these images. "There is no excuse for creating a sexually explicit deepfake of someone without their consent," the justice ministry said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The previous Conservative government, which lost power to the Labour Party in July, announced similar plans to make sexually explicit deepfakes a criminal offence. Under its proposal, offenders would face fines and even jail time. The justice ministry said further details of the new offence would be set out in due course. The government said it would also create new offences for the taking of intimate images without consent and the installation of equipment with intent to commit these offences. Those found guilty could face up to two years behind bars. "This demeaning and disgusting form of chauvinism must not become normalised," said Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Technology minister Margaret Jones said tech platforms hosting abusive images would face tougher scrutiny and significant penalties. "Intimate-image abuse is a national emergency that is causing significant, long-lasting harm to women and girls who face a total loss of control over their digital footprint, at the hands of online misogyny," said campaigner Jess Davies. The new offences will be included in the government's Crime and Policing Bill, which will be introduced to parliament. A date is yet to be set. (Reporting by Catarina Demony; Editing by Alex Richardson) This article was orginally published on January 7. The pictures emerging are arresting: a hospital waiting room in Beijing, full of masked patients apparently attached to drips; crowds of mask-wearing commuters making their way through the city. If it all seems unnervingly familiar, thats perhaps not surprising. It is around five years since such images heralded a human health event that was both worrisome and unusual. Stories of Covid-19 began as something over there, which in our connected world spread rapidly over here. By March 2020 we were in lockdown and our lives had been turned upside down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Could we be back there again? Could human metapneumovirus (HMPV), the illness causing these scenes in China, precipitate us into a new pandemic? The short answer is almost certainly no. Although cases have been surging in China, and now seem to be on the rise in the UK too, experts agree this is no reason to panic. Unlike Covid-19, HMPV is not a new virus. It has been around for decades, and its normal for cases to climb in the cold winter months. But long-standing concerns over Chinas response to the pandemic as well as persistent speculation concerning the origins of the outbreak, first detected in its eastern city of Wuhan have seen scientists call for total transparency from Beijing over the current spike in infections. Is HMPV in the UK? Although China has been experiencing a surge, the virus has long been present in the UK, and elsewhere too. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has long been tracking cases, which commonly spike around this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms similar to those of a common cold. A small proportion of immuno-compromised people will develop more severe disease in the lungs, with symptoms including wheezing and breathlessness, and some may need hospital care. Like the flu, it can be life-threatening to such patients. Masked children, accompanied by adults, wait to be seen by medical staff at the paediatric department of a hospital in Hangzhou, eastern Chinas Zhejiang province - STR/AFP The latest available UKHSA data shows one in 20 (5 per cent) hospital patients in England tested for respiratory infections were positive for HMPV as of the week ending January 19, based on findings from 8,000 samples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That marks the highest recorded rate of the virus so far this winter. UKHSA, which does not publish case numbers, described the current level of HMPV in England as medium, with those aged 80 and above found to have the highest proportion of infections and cases also rising among children up to the age of five. But although it may cause more severe illness in children in that age group, adults over 65 and those with weakened immune systems, most people will recover at the same rate they would from a common cold. HMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we typically see activity reaching a peak at this time of year, says Dr Conall Watson, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA. 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. Since the pandemic, the testing and surveillance of diseases has improved, and its been suggested that what looks like an increase in cases could be at least partially attributed to better detection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So why, then, is it generating such a stir? The answer, it seems, may lie in our post-Covid jumpiness: a sense that we are braced for the next big virus to hit, now we have seen a global pandemic overwhelm the world in the 21st century already. In Britain, well-publicised NHS woes will likely do little to persuade the public that, should the worst happen again, this time we will be ready for it, even if we are better prepared psychologically. A computer illustration of particles of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that affects almost all children by the age of five - Roger Harris/Science Photo Library RF I think the general public is becoming more aware of viruses, says Dr Andrew Catchpole, the chief scientific officer at hVIVO, a research organisation that tests infectious and respiratory disease vaccines and therapeutics. Theyre a lot more spoken about since the [Covid] pandemic. The unfamiliarity of the name HMPV may also add to a sense of fear, he suggests. We mostly dont fear that old foe, the flu, in quite the same way as something with a name we havent heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, memories of how Chinese authorities responded to the Covid-19 pandemic after cases were first detected in Wuhan remain fresh. The country was widely criticised for its lack of transparency at the start of the pandemic. Theres always a bit of concern about whether were truly getting the full picture, says Dr Catchpole. Where did HMPV originate? At the end of December, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged China to share data on the origins of the Covid outbreak, describing the obligation to do so as a moral and scientific imperative. Without transparency, the world cannot adequately prevent and prepare for future epidemics and pandemics, the WHO warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Against this backdrop, the rise in HMPV cases is sparking more concern than it might have done pre-Covid. Infection numbers have been rising in China since mid-December, in both outpatient and emergency cases, according to Xinhua, the state news agency. Amid reports of concerned citizens seeking information about the illness online, authorities have urged people to remain calm and take regular precautions such as frequent washing of hands and avoiding crowded places. Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, a specialist in infectious diseases and associate professor of medicine at the Australian National University, has stressed that it is vital for China to share its data on this outbreak in a timely manner. In widely reported comments, he added: This includes epidemiologic data about who is getting infected. Also, we will need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit, and that there arent any significant mutations of concern. But there has been nothing in the history of HMPV to suggest it might mutate into something far more dangerous, Dr Catchpole suggests. Its not considered to have pandemic potential, he says. To become a pandemic, a new virus would generally be required to enter the human population. But it has to come from somewhere, he explains. With Covid it came from animals, as did influenza. There is no known animal reservoir for HMPV, which is why its not on the radar for having [pandemic] potential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is, however, important to know what strain of the virus is currently circulating in China, in order to establish whether it has undergone any mutations that might enable it to evade our immune systems more successfully, Dr Catchpole stresses. Thats what were looking for that reassurance at a scientific level. Chinese officials have repeatedly reiterated that respiratory viruses routinely rise at this time of year, and have suggested the current spread of such illnesses is smaller in scale than was the case last year. Nonetheless, Beijing announced at the end of last month that it was stepping up monitoring of emerging respiratory diseases, with cases expected to continue to rise through the winter. The move marked a rise in its level of preparedness compared with five years ago, when the novel coronavirus that triggered Covid-19 first emerged. Post-Covid jumpiness: Theres a sense that Britain is braced for the next big virus to hit, five years after Covid-19 turned our lives upside down - Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If post-Covid nerves can explain some of the jumpiness around the spread of viruses with unfamiliar-sounding names (even if, like HMPV, they are seasonal illnesses that have been with us for decades), age-old human psychology may also make us generally prone to respond to perceived threats in this way. In the early 1970s, psychologists Amos Tversky and Daniel Kahneman identified a mental habit they termed availability heuristic to describe how we judge the likeliness of a certain event or risk materialising. The more we are exposed to information, the more prominent it will be in our minds when were evaluating the probability of something happening to us. By this logic, the more social media posts or news headlines we see about a virus, the higher we rate its chance of hitting us or affecting our lives. In the social media echo chamber, we can be exposed to such posts hundreds of times over within the space of mere minutes. HMPV is all over TikTok announced a headline in Cosmopolitan magazine this week. One psychologist cautions against collective hysterical responses. But while experts agree that fears of a pandemic are overblown and unwarranted, they nonetheless advise people to follow health advice to protect themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, says Dr Watson. 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. An HMPV pandemic is unlikely to be on the cards, then. But a greater sense of wariness is perhaps no bad thing, says Dr Catchpole. These things happen with new viruses and we need to be alert and respond to them, he argues. It doesnt take much for a new pandemic to occur, and it can occur. Everyones been on guard. 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. Chairman Leslie Campione attended todays board meeting in Tavares to discuss the key challenges impeding Britt Roads reopening. Fifteen inches of rain from Hurricane Milton have destroyed approximately 100 feet of road. The resulting hole is about 20 feet deep, making the repairs for Britt Road complicated. Read: Frost advisory issued for parts of Central Florida overnight According to Lake Countys communications, engineering must consider the slopes drainage patterns and the areas environmental sensitivity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The extended road closure continues to impact residents relying on alternative routes such as SR 44 and County Road 437 (CR 437). The traffic on SR 44 is particularly congested and challenging for those without additional access to their neighborhoods. Read: Jimmy Patronis Requests $3.6 Million for First Responders Mental Health Support Britt Road is a Federal-Aid Highway, meaning the County must obtain approvals from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Florida Department of Transportation for funding grants before beginning any reconstruction. The City of Mount Dora is also an active partner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Brevard County woman accused of animal cruelty and child neglect, sheriff says Campione said this about the topic before todays board meeting I dont want to give false hope that Britt Road will be opened soon. But if everything goes like clockwork over the next three months, perhaps the road could be opened by the end of the summer or by fall 2025. We will keep residents apprised if the process speeds up or slows down. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) Some older residents in the Bronx say they would rather sleep outside than inside their NYCHA building. Some residents are cold in their homes again this winter due to inconsistent heat. A community leader is calling it a public health emergency. More Local News Its been years of frozen misery. PIX11s Monica Morales has fought for the seniors who live at the Twin Parks East in the Bronx, including in winter 2021, 2022, and now 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Queen Mcfarlane, the tenant president of the Twin Parks East, has PIX11 News on her speed dial. To be fair, over the years, NYCHA has made improvements like installing new windows. In 2022, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams stepped in. But lately, the only heat Mcfarlane is feeling is from her neighbors to fix the problem. A NYCHA spokesperson told PIX11 News: NYCHA heating staff were dispatched to Twin Parks East and have confirmed there is currently no interruption in heat service. We will work with the residents to address any concerns. Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to call the Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771 or submit work tickets through the MyNYCHA application. If you have a story or need help with your heat, reach out to Monica Morales at monica@pix11.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 PIX11. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Although its only January, residents of Brookville will vote on whether or not their mayor and vice mayor will be recalled. From 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, Brookville residents will head to Leiber Center in Golden Gate Park for a recall vote, according to our partners at Eaton Herald Register. Keep It Rural, the PAC behind the recall effort, claim Mayor Chuck Letner and Vice Mayor James Zimmerlin are controlling decisions made by council and not listening to constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some council members do support Letner and Zimmerlin, citing their fiscal responsibility and leadership of the community. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BROOME COUNTY, NY (WIVT/WBGH) After eight years in the position, Joseph Mihalko announced Tuesday he will not be running for another term as Broome County Clerk. Mihalko announced the decision to end his run as clerk in a press release. In keeping with the transparency of the Broome County Clerks office, today I am announcing my intention not to pursue another term as your Broome County Clerk. Over the eight years I have served as your Clerk, I have increase accessibility of public records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have implemented optional online appointments for the DMV and instituted remote drop boxes for registration renewals within the county office building and at senior centers. I was co-chair of the Legislative Committee of New York State Association of County Clerks that lobbied and received an increase in revenue for the county in regards to online and mail in DMV transactions. I authorized the restoration and display of the lost Boston Purchase Map which is a historic treasure of Broome County; along with many other historic artifacts that became the basis of documentaries on WSKG. I have presided over the swearing in of new citizens as well as increased the accessibility to apply for passports by holding remote passport fairs at various locations throughout the county and many other policies and services for the residents of Broome County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has been my honor to serve the residents of Broome County as their Broome County Clerk, Mihalko 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 WIVT - News 34. GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) Brown County United Way announced on Tuesday that theyre reinvesting $150,000 in its Community Schools Initiative for the 2024-25 school year. According to the release, the money will expand its impact on two schools, Howe Elementary Community and Nicolet Elementary. Packers and Sargento Foods continuing hunger relief campaign throughout playoffs Howe Elementary Community School has 373 students in grades 4K through 5th and its been a major piece of Brown County United Ways Community Schools Initiative since inception. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicolet Elementary is now part of the initiative and serves 330 students from 4K to 5th grade. The schools were chosen as they embody the Community School model as they offer varying services to create support for students and their families. The key pillars of the initiative, according to the release are: Integrated student supports Expanded learning time Family and community engagement Collaborative leadership and shared decision-making Partnerships with organizations in the community Green Bay Area Public School District Superintendent Vicki Bayer said they value its continued collaboration with Brown County United Way to create strong schools that support the communities. This reinvestment focuses on areas of critical need that will have a positive impact on student achievement, Bayer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robyn Davis, Brown County United Ways President and CEO said the investment embodies the organizations commitment to supporting local schools and the families they serve. We are working alongside our partners to create environments where students can excel academically and thrive personally, Davis said. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources hosting statewide candlelight events The release adds that the money will address multiple needs each school reported: Integrating supports into schools (meals and health services) Student and family engagement Increasing attendance For more information, visit Brown County United Ways 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 WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. A fast-moving brush fire that erupted Tuesday in Los Angeles threatened homes and sent thousands of residents fleeing, prompting city and state officials to declare a state of emergency. Meanwhile, a second rapidly spreading blaze broke out several hours later, spurring more evacuations, as dangerous winds continued to sweep Southern California late into the evening. PHOTO: Fire personnel respond to homes destroyed while a helicopter drops water as the Palisades Fire grows in Pacific Palisades, Calif. on Jan. 7, 2025. (David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images) The Pacific Palisades fire, which had grown to nearly 3,000 acres by 6:30 p.m. local time, was first reported before 11 a.m. and quickly prompted thousands of evacuations across the region and into Malibu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the mountains to the coast, huge swaths of smoke and flames rose from the area as fire crews battled the wind-driven blaze. By Tuesday evening, the brush fire had jumped the Pacific Coast Highway, nearly reaching Will Rogers Beach State Park. PHOTO: Flames overtake the intersection of Temescal Canyon and Pacific Coast Highway Fire at the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades California on Jan. 7, 2025. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) "This is a highly dangerous windstorm that's creating extreme fire risk and we're not out of the woods," California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. "We're already seeing the destructive impacts with this fire in Pacific Palisades that grew rapidly in a matter of minutes." Later Tuesday evening, a second brush fire in Altadena -- to the northeast of Pacific Palisades -- ignited. Fueled by the whipping winds, the Eaton fire rapidly grew from 10 acres to 400 acres in less than two hours. Several areas are under mandatory evacuation orders. President Joe Biden, who is in Los Angeles, received two briefings regarding the rapidly spreading fires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president "encourages residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and heed the warnings of local officialsespecially if ordered to evacuate," the White House said in statement. Overall, evacuation orders were in place for approximately 30,000 residents and more than 10,000 homes were threatened by the Palisades fire, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Later Tuesday evening, the city of Santa Monica also issued a mandatory evacuation for a strip of the city north of San Vicente Boulevard, saying there was an "immediate threat to life." No injuries had been reported as of late Tuesday. PHOTO: A helicopter drops water around homes threatened by the wind-driven Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images) Scenes of destruction KABC reported that both a high school, Pacific Palisades Charter High School, and a playhouse nearby, the Theatre Palisades, had caught fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flames also crept dangerously close to the Getty Villa, a hilltop museum in Malibu with a renowned collection of art from Ancient Greece and Rome. However, administrators assured the public that the museum's collection was safe. "Fortunately, Getty had made extensive efforts to clear brush from the surrounding area as part of its fire mitigation efforts throughout the year," Katherine E. Fleming, president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust said in a statement. "Some trees and vegetation on site have burned, but staff and the collection remain safe." The museum said its galleries and library archives were sealed off from smoke by its state-of-the-art air-handling system and the doubled-walled construction of its galleries. PHOTO: Smoke engulfs the Getty Villa during a wildfire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of west Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (Mike Blake/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Winds expected to worsen Wind conditions were expected to worsen into the evening and through the night, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone. "We are not out of danger," Marrone told reporters during an afternoon briefing. "The National Weather Service has predicted that the winds are going to pick up and get worse." PHOTO: Heavy smoke from a brush fire in the Pacific Palisades rises over the Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (Eugene Garcia/AP) The strongest winds were expected between 10 p.m. Tuesday into 5 a.m. Wednesday, he said. Residents in the area were told to have an evacuation plan in order. The dangerous winds are forecast to continue through 6 p.m. Wednesday, spanning Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Diego, San Bernardino and Riverside counties, with some wind gusts reaching up to 100 mph, according to the governor's office. PHOTO: A resident attempts to protect his property from the flames closing in on homes threatened by the wind-driven Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images) Earlier, fire officials issued a mandatory evacuation order for thousands of residents in the area from Merrimac Road west to Topanga Canyon Boulevard and south to Pacific Coast Highway. Those not under evacuation orders are being asked to shelter in place. PHOTO: An aircraft flies to drop fire retardant over the area of a wildfire burning near Pacific Palisades on the west side of Los Angeles during a weather driven windstorm, in Los Angeles, Jan. 7, 2025. (Daniel Cole/Reuters) As the fire began spreading Tuesday afternoon, traffic gridlock initially clogged major streets in the Pacific Palisades area, including Palisades Drive and Sunset Boulevard. The LAFD said about 30 vehicles left abandoned on Sunset and Palisades would have to be moved by the county to provide clear access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sections of the 10 Freeway and Pacific Coast Highway were closed to all non-essential traffic on Tuesday afternoon. PHOTO: A wildfire burns near Pacific Palisades on the west side of Los Angeles (Daniel Cole/Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 17,000 customers were without power across Los Angeles County, according to PowerOutage.US. PHOTO: Flames close in on homes threatened by the wind-driven Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (David Swanson/AFP via Getty Images) MORE: 'Life threatening' windstorm to increase fire danger in Southern California: NWS A separate brush fire threatened the West Hollywood area Tuesday morning, with crews working to contain the blaze on Sunset Boulevard between San Vicente and Crescent Heights. PHOTO: Will Adams uses a garden hose to keep flames from damaging his home as the Palisades Fire advances in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Jan. 7, 2025. (Ethan Swope/AP) The cause of both fires was under investigation, according to Cal Fire. A "life-threatening" and "destructive" windstorm is also expected from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday morning across much of Ventura and Los Angeles counties, according to the National Weather Service. Areas that are not typically windy will also be impacted, the agency said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of Southern California remains under red flag alerts for fire danger from Tuesday through Thursday as strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity and critically dry fuels jeopardize the region. PHOTO: Fire off Sunset Blvd. near The Comedy Store in the West Hollywood Hills, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (@josh_Inglewood/X) MORE: Wildfires in recent years have reversed some of the progress made in eliminating air pollution, new study suggests PHOTO: A wildfire burns in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of west Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 7, 2025. (Daniel Cole/Reuters) 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. Los Angeles fires: 2nd blaze spurs evacuations originally appeared on abcnews.go.com KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Kansas City Fire Department is investigating after a one-story maintenance facility caught fire, causing rail line operations to be halted Tuesday morning. According to KCFD, at about 5:30 a.m., crews responded to a building fire at a waste disposal company near East 9th Street and Blue Ridge Boulevard. 61-year-old Public Works employee killed by dump truck near Blue Summit Firefighters used an aerial ladder to contain and fight the fire. KCFD also reported that the facility had bulk oil storage, which had leaked from the structure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result of the spill, hazmat crews used diking procedures to create a barrier, blocking the oil from entering other areas. After it was contained, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources was called to determine the next steps. According to KCFD, rail lines had to be closed so crews could get water from hydrant supply lines across the railroad tracks near the structure. Overland Park has cleared only 25% of residential streets after snowstorm Rail lines are still shut down and are expected to stay that way for part of Tuesday morning so KCFD can continue to work on the incident around Holmes Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No injuries were reported, and 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Burleson residents have taken to social media to express their frustration after a locally-owned grocery store posted a video about their impending closure. With heavy hearts, we are here to announce that City Market will be closing stores permanently within the next two months, City Market owner Kurt Jaeger said in a video posted to the stores Facebook page on Monday night. We were unexpectedly served an official eviction notice by the building's owner. Our entire City Market family is devastated, heartbroken and shocked that it has to come to an end in this manner. This is not, and I repeat not, what you and I wanted, and this is not our choice. Jaeger and his wife, Jill, purchased the store at 200 E. Renfro St. in 2004 from the Bransom family. The store, which was formerly called Bransoms Grocery, was founded in Fort Worth in 1942. It opened in Burleson in 1959. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this town, we continue to strive to follow Richard and Cindy [Bransom]'s footsteps in faith, family and community, Jaeger said. It deeply saddens us that we will not have the ability to pass down the store's history to the next generation of our family. The store employs about 40 staff members. Jaeger has 40 years of grocery experience, is a member of the Rotary Club and recipient of the Paul Harris Award. He also serves as treasurer of the Burleson Police Foundation and is a strong supporter of our first responders. To our customers the term family is far more appropriate, he said. We are deeply, deeply grateful for your support over the years, and want to thank you. It has been a true honor for Jill and I to serve you. We have made many friends, and we are so blessed to know you and your families, and we cherish every interaction and memory that we've had. Jaeger said the store will remain fully operational during the time and encouraged residents to continue to support and shop there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not finished fighting yet and I want to repeat we're not finished fighting yet, he said. We are still praying for a miracle. In the coming days we will update you on the progress. As of Tuesday morning, the post had over 1,500 comments and as many shares. This story is developing. Check back for updates. A Burnsville man has pleaded guilty to defrauding a California electronics manufacturer to the tune of over $1.2 million. The Office of U.S. Attorney for Minnesota Andrew Luger says that Thomas Thanh Pham, 53, carried out the scheme while operating as CEO of Enterprise Products, LLC between 2019 and 2020. He claimed to offer "consulting and financial services to commercial clients involved in engineering and manufacturing," and presented himself as a broker with "business relationships with large, well-known companies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He presented himself as a go-between for a San Jose, CA-based electronics company and his supposed business affiliates, and pitched he could facilitate "multi-million-dollar manufacturing and repair contracts" between the company and his affiliates. He provided phony documentation including contracts, correspondence and business proposals, and asked the electronics company to pay a "deposit bond" of $1.278 million. The company signed the contract, and Pham initially sent the company 20 samples of electronic devices for the victim company to repair. These devices, however, were stolen property. When the company asked about its money and later demanded a refund, Pham offered "a series of excuses and promises." He also failed to keep the money in a refundable escrow as he had promised, instead he used the money for unauthorized purchases. Pham pleaded guilty to wire fraud on Friday and will be sentenced at a later date. Related: Dakota Child and Family Clinic in Burnsville closes permanently A Burnsville man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud after federal authorities say he concocted a fraudulent scheme against a California company that netted him $1.2 million, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Minnesota. Thomas Thanh Pham, 53, claimed to be a broker who could connect a California-based electronics manufacturing company in San Jose with his alleged business affiliates in the same industry, court documents show. As a supposed broker and CEO of Enterprise Products LLC, Pham defrauded the San Jose company by claiming he could facilitate multimillion-dollar manufacturing and repair contracts between the company and other large electronics companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He supplied bogus documents, including fabricated contracts, correspondence and business proposals, as part of his scheme and required the company to pay him a deposit of more than $1.2 million and sign a contract with him, court documents show. To give the impression he was fulfilling his end of the bargain, Pham delivered 20 sample electronics devices but failed to disclose that the devices were stolen. Although the victim company demanded a refund, Pham used the funds for a series of unauthorized uses and transactions. Last week, Pham pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. The case was the result of an FBI investigation. Related Articles Meta announced Tuesday it's doing away with third-party fact-checking in favor of community notes. Several lawmakers told BI the move is an indication Mark Zuckerberg is catering to Trump. Some business leaders praised Meta for the change while others expressed concern. Meta is carrying out the biggest overhaul to its content moderation system in years. The company announced on Tuesday that it's replacing third-party fact-checking program with user-generated community notes, like those on Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter. In another page from Musk's playbook, Meta said it's moving some teams specifically its trust and safety teams, responsible for writing the company's content policies and reviewing content out of California into Texas and other locations in the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the decision was about getting "back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies, and restoring free expression on our platforms." Democrats: Zuckerberg's sucking up to Trump Democratic lawmakers told BI at the US Capitol on Tuesday that they saw the move as a sign that Zuckerberg is trying to appease President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his return to the Oval Office. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York said Zuckerberg was "kissing Trump's ass" in making the change. "I think that Mark Zuckerberg is trying to follow in Elon's footsteps, which means that actually, they're going to use this guise of free speech to actually suppress critics of Trump and critics of themselves," Ocasio-Cortez said. "That's why they're moving to this system. It's a model for their own self-aggrandizement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts told BI that Big Tech CEOs "want a government that works for them, and they're making clear that sucking up to Donald Trump is one of the ways they think they'll get that." Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida said the change appeared to be symptomatic of authoritarianism. "It's not just about the legislation they pass, or what they push, but it creates this environment of fear and self-censorship, and a place where companies will begin to do the things he wants them to do without him forcing them to do it," he said, referring to Trump. "They're surrendering essentially to implied threats by the government, which is very dangerous," Rep. Jerry Nadler of New York said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump himself told reporters Tuesday that he believed Zuckerberg's changes at Meta were "probably" in response to previous threats Trump has made to the Meta chief executive, including to jail him. Republicans: A good sign, but we'll see Republicans offered more mixed reactions to Zuckerberg's decision, with some expressing skepticism while others saw it as a win. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas told reporters at the Capitol that what the Meta CEO said "sounds good" but that the "proof will be in the pudding." He also said he saw Zuckerberg's move as the product of both political positioning and a sincere evolution in his thinking. "I've had multiple conversations with Mark on this topic," Cruz said, "and I will say, he had previously expressed an interest in protecting free speech." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, meanwhile, called the decision a "ploy to avoid being regulated." For several years, she's been pushing a bill to increase social media protections for kids. "Can any of us assume Zuckerberg won't return to his old tricks?" wrote Sen. Mike Lee of Utah on X. Republican Rep. Randy Weber of Texas, meanwhile, wrote on X that it was "a great day for freedom of speech." "It seems like Meta is finally taking a page from Elon Musk's playbook & letting Americans make decisions for themselves. It's about time Meta owned up to censoring Americans," he added. Tech and business leaders react In the tech and business world, some of Zuck's peers congratulated him and Meta on the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk said in separate tweets that the decision was "cool" and "awesome." X CEO Linda Yaccarino called it "a smart move by Zuck." "Fact-checking and moderation doesn't belong in the hands of a few select gatekeepers who can easily inject their bias into decisions. It's a democratic process that belongs in the hands of many," she wrote. David Marcus, the former Meta exec in charge of the company's Libra cryptocurrency project, said the change marked a "massive step in the right direction towards free expression for Meta." Other tech and business figures were more skeptical of the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yoel Roth, the former head of Twitter's trust and safety department, said, "Genuinely baffled by the unempirical assertion that Community Notes 'works.' Does it? How do Meta know? The best available research is pretty mixed on this point. And as they go all-in on an unproven concept, will Meta commit to publicly releasing data so people can actually study this?" And in response to a message from Zuckerberg saying Meta will work with Trump to "push back against foreign governments going after American companies to censor more," Mark Cuban wrote on Bluesky: "Translation: Americans are going to see Tariffs on products from countries you believe censor Meta services as a means of pressuring them into removing any restrictions that impact your profitability in those countries. Also: You'll have carte blanche to take posts that no longer have restrictions, making them a more explicit representation, and train your AI Models." Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) A Caddo commissioner believes his district is being unfairly targeted by those who dump bulk items illegally and is raising public health and safety issues. Commissioner Steffon Jones of District 6 said dumping has increased at the Woodlawn Terrace apartments, which has long been plagued by quality of living complaints. The site was abandoned after owners allowed deplorable conditions to persist, and the City of Shreveport partially demolished it. Commissioner Jones said people are now using the site as a place to throw away their trash and other debris. He feels it has been forgotten about again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im of the belief that some of these folks dont even live in Cedar Grove and they are coming to Cedar Grove to dump their trash. Im not going to be able to deal with that. Not whats so ever. Im telling yall excuse my French But Im going to raise hell about it because its not fair to my community that people want to dump their trash there because I know this wouldnt be happening anyway else, Commissioner Jones said. Jones is asking the parish to request more assistance from the City of Shreveport formally. Parish property standards said they are aware of the ongoing issue at Woodlawn Terrace and are continuing clean-up efforts alongside the 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 KTALnews.com. In the Spotlight is a Fresno Bee series that digs into the high-profile local issues that readers care most about. Story idea? Email tips@fresnobee.com. Construction of a new railyard between Wasco and Shafter in Kern County will set the stage for the eventual construction of tracks and other operating systems for Californias planned high-speed rail project. The site, called a railhead, is near the southernmost end of a 22-mile stretch of the future bullet-train route from the Tulare-Kern county line to Poplar Avenue near Shafter, northwest of Bakersfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the shadow of a newly built overpass along the rail route on Monday afternoon, California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri and Gov. Gavin Newsom proclaimed the start of work on the railhead as a milestone for the controversial rail project. The site will be the staging area along the existing BNSF Railway tracks in the southern San Joaquin Valley to receive the materials that will be used to lay down the steel rails for high-speed trains. This damn thing is substantially permanent, Newsom said of the overall Valley portion of construction from north of Madera to Shafter, the first stages of what is planned as an initial operating segment for the trains between Merced and Bakersfield. Finally, were at the point where were going to start laying down this track in the next couple years. Choudri explained that the railhead is important for us is because it serves as the first step in bringing all our commodities and material to this site and then start laying tracks. This signifies the progress and moves us closer to the reality for the high-speed rail program, Choudri added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom, Choudri and others celebrated the start of the railhead work by driving spikes into a ceremonial section of tracks at the site. The optimism of Choudri, Newsom and others Monday comes as the ambitious rail program, for which construction in the Valley commenced in 2013, confronts a likely weather change when President-elect Donald Trump takes office later this month. In 2019, during the first Trump administration, the Federal Railroad Administration canceled a previously awarded grant of nearly $1 billion for Californias high-speed rail program, and threatened to claw back about $2.5 billion in other federal economic stimulus grants awarded during the Obama administration. Over the past several years, Californias project has received several billion dollars in additional money from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help advance construction in the Valley. The California High-Speed Rail Authority has applications pending with the U.S. Department of Transportation for even more infrastructure money to fully pay for extending the tracks into downtown Bakersfield and downtown Merced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans in Congress have already proposed legislation to block any future federal allocations to the California project. Additionally, tech billionaire Elon Musk, tapped by President-elect Trump to lead an unofficial Department of Government Efficiency, has long been a critic of the states high-speed rail program, describing it as inefficient and wasteful. In his remarks Monday, Newsom tangentially acknowledged the potential challenges. No ones naive about the headwinds that are coming our way, but we withstood those a few years back, Newsom said, and we were able to continue to move forward and I have all the confidence in the world that we will move forward. But, he added, We are in a very different place at this sacred moment, with a lot of humility about the past and also very prideful that we are finally here announcing this railhead project, moving forward to lay this track and to get this project to a point where success becomes irresistible, success becomes inevitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The moment, however, comes as the schedule for work in the Valley has slipped by years and costs have escalated well beyond what was foreseen when the construction contracts were awarded between 2013 and 2016: Construction Package 1, the first contract, spanning from north of Madera to the south edge of Fresno, was awarded in August 2013 based on a winning bid of less than $1 billion and an anticipated completion date of March 2018. Completion is now expected in November 2026, and delays and change orders have inflated the current value of the contract to more than $3.7 billion. Construction Package 2-3, stretching from south of Fresno to the Tulare-Kern county line, was awarded in June 2015 based on a winning bid of about $1.2 billion with an anticipated completion date of August 2019. The cost of that segment has grown to nearly $3.6 billion, with construction forecast to be finished in March 2026. Construction Package 4, from the Tulare-Kern line to Poplar Avenue near Shafter, was awarded in early 2016 based on a bid of $337.3 million and a forecast completion date of June 2019. The work was substantially finished last summer at a cost that climbed to more than $841 million. The state rail authority has yet to hire contractors for the installation of tracks, but has retained a company to handle the design of the tracks, signal systems and electrical systems that will provide power to the trains. And later this year, the agency expects to award a contract for the purchase of trainsets for testing and eventual passenger operations on the Merced-Bakersfield line. The rail authority hopes to have the route operational between 2030 and 2033. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) By 2026, libraries in San Diego must come up with a collection development policy that would outline how they choose what books theyll add to their shelves, as well as provide a way for readers to express their concerns about the library materials and giving them a way to request new ones. Mariana Garcia is turning the page on a new chapter in her life to read more books. Real life stories, thats what Im interested in, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Assembly Bill 1825 will put more protections on the books she chooses. Theres history in these books that we need to know, especially people of color, she said. Pen America reports book bans overwhelmingly impact stories about race, racism, and people of color, LGBTQ+ people and books with sex-related subjects. People of color have tried so hard for their history to get in books, and for these book bans to try and remove that again is just like were taking steps back, Garcia said. AB1825 will bring more transparency from libraries by requiring them to develop a publicly accessible policy by January 2026 for how they choose books and give readers the opportunity to express their concerns about available books or request new materials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peter Seidlers widow takes legal action in fight for control over the Padres At the core of this bill, this new law, is for our librarians to make those decisions rather than politics, said Al Muratsuchi, the 66th district assemblyman. Florida saw the most book bans from 2023-2024 with 4,561 bans across the state, according to Pen America. California saw some of the fewest with only two bans, but Muratsuchi says this will protect against attempted bans across the state. A lot of people may be surprised to learn that this kind of book banning activity is not just happening in the red states, but its happening right here in the state of California, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it remains to be seen how the San Diego Public Library plans to comply with the new law, they currently offer a Books Unbanned program to give readers across the U.S. access to banned materials. People of color have all experienced discrimination, and its important our stories be heard, she said. FOX 5/KUSI News reached out to several library districts across the county about how this new law would impact their collections, but we did not hear back. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. California made history on Jan. 1, 2025 with the countrys first statewide ban on PFAS in clothing and other textile products. The California Safer Clothes and Textiles Act of 2022 (AB 1817) bars the manufacturing, sale and distribution of new fabric productsfrom clothing to accessories, footwear, bedding, upholstery, shower curtains, tablecloths, towels and moremade with regulated perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2022, the law mandates that manufacturers of such items switch out forever chemicals for the least toxic alternative available, or create alternative designs that achieve the properties created by PFAS, like waterproofing, without using barred chemicals. In addition, manufacturers of covered apparel and home goods must provide those that offer the products for sale with a certificate of compliance showing that they were made in accordance with state rules and dont contain PFAS. This document must be signed by an authorized official of the manufacturer. Retailers and distributors of textile products (provided they arent also the manufacturers of these items) wont be held in violation in the case of a breach if they obtained the certificate of compliance. Notably, the law doesnt apply to outdoor apparel for severe wet conditionsfor now. A ban on PFAS in products like outerwear and rain gear wont go into effect until January 2028. However, beginning this month, parties that distribute, sell or offer for sale any new and not previously used outdoor apparel for wet conditions must provide a disclosure for consumers that specifies that the items was Made With PFAS Chemicals. Products for sale online must also be accompanied by such a disclaimer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California is the first state in the nation to enact such a comprehensive PFAS ban for apparel and consumer goods, though Maine, Massachusetts and Minnesota all have legislation banning the sale or distribution of carpets, rugs, fabric treatments and upholstered furniture that contain PFAS. New Yorks ban on carpets that contain the toxic chemical compounds takes effect this year as well. Progress when it comes to the global elimination of PFAS in apparel products has been plodding and inconsistent. A study from Arnika and the International Pollutants Elimination Network in 2023wherein clothing like jackets, T-shirts, swimwear and pants sold in Germany, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Poland, United Kingdom, Serbia, Montenegro, Kenya, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the U.S. were tested for the presence of PFAS chemicalsturned up alarming results: more than 65 percent were tainted, especially jackets. Europe is also working to phase out the use of forever chemicals from its apparel supply chain. The EUs REACH Regulation requires producers and importers of chemicals or compounds to ensure that they are used safely. The law doesnt apply to polymeric PFAS in general, or to non-polymeric PFAS in imported textilesonly non-polymeric PFAS produced in or imported to the EU as individual substances or chemical mixtures are covered by the law, according to the European Environment Agency. Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden have proposed a universal PFAS restriction that includes all kinds of PFAS chemicals. Meanwhile, France has proposed a national ban on PFAS that includes textiles, and Denmark has announced its goal of banning PFAS across the categories of apparel and footwear, as well as other consumer products. (FOX40.COM) California law enforcement is warning the public about an AMBER Alert scam circulating throughout the state. The AMBER acronym stands for the American Missing Broadcast Emergency Response. Its an alert used to notify the public whenever a child is abducted. The system was inspired by a 9-year-old girl named Amber Hagerman who was kidnapped and murdered in Arlington, Texas in 1996. AMBER alerts began in Texas and was brought to California in 2002. What are the different emergency alerts in California? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the California Highway Patrol, scammers are posing as AMBER Alert representatives via telephone, asking for personal information, and requesting meetups at places of residence. This is NOT how AMBER Alerts work!, CHP said on social media. Only CHP can activate themno registration required. Police said to never provide personal information or answer calls from unknown or possible scam numbers. Anyone who has been approached about an Amber Alert scam can report the incident to local law enforcement. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News. With a projected budget shortfall of $95 million next year, Oakland Unified School District's (OUSD) latest plan to close schools would trim costly overhead. The district has lost over 2,200 students since the start of the COVID-19 pandemicsix schools have lost at least 20 percent of their enrollment. But school closures are contentious, and a similar attempt failed in 2022 after an uproar led to board members being recalled. "We need more [schools] not less," protested a speaker at a recent board meeting. While it's unclear why the shrinking district would need additional schools, the vocal opposition made trustees think twice before going on the record, instead punting on a vote to merge ten schools into five. School closure battles like Oakland's are playing out across California. Statewide, public schools lost 5.1 percent of their students between the 20192020 school year and the 20222023 school year, and the National Center for Education Statistics projects that they'll lose another 15.7 percent by the 20312032 school year. Birth rates are falling, and parents are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional public schools, such as homeschooling, private schools, and microschools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But California's public schools have been slow to adapt, according to new data published by Reason Foundation. The analysis examined public school closures in 15 states, including New York, Florida, and Virginia. Overall, total closures across these states dipped in the aftermath of COVID-19, but then returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 and 2024. Notably, school closures in Colorado increased in 2024exactly what you'd expect in a state that has lost 4.6 percent of its students. But this wasn't the case in California, where closures have decreased in recent years, from 31 school closures in 2019 to only seven in 2024even fewer than states like Utah, South Dakota, and Iowa. One reason for this backward trajectory is that K-12 funding has been at record highs, giving public schools little incentive to adjust their size. California's public schools got $23.4 billion in federal COVID-19 relief funds during the pandemic, while non-federal funding increased by $1,691 per student in real terms between 2020 and 2022the highest growth rate in the country. School closures are difficult, and these extra dollars could've helped smooth the transition for affected students with tutoring and other support. But many districts, kowtowing to pressure from the teachers' unions, instead spent the windfall on things like teacher pay bumps and hiring new staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, Oakland gave its teachers a 10 percent salary raise and a $5,000 bonus after a seven-day strike in 2023. The Alameda County Office of Educationwhich provides extra financial oversight due to the district's spotty track recordsigned off on the deal but warned: "Without further board action and successful implementation of budget-balancing solutions, OUSD is projected to be insolvent within three years." With federal relief funds expiring and state budget shortfalls, public schools can no longer ignore their fiscal woes. California's Legislative Analyst's Office projects little wiggle room in the state's 20252026 budget, with deficits potentially growing to $30 billion by 20282029. This means that the generous annual funding increases that California's public schools have grown accustomed to are unlikely to persist. And because state dollars are tied to enrollment, shrinking school districts must spend down reserves and slash budgets to reflect falling revenues. The bad news for many school districts is that school closures alone won't be enough to balance the books. They'll also need to look at other cost-cutting measures like staff reductions and salary freezes, which teachers' unions will oppose. But the math is simple: fewer students should mean fewer schools. Maintaining under-enrolled schools is costly, spreads resources thin, and isn't good for kids in the long run. California's public schools have punted on these difficult decisions, but the fiscal reckoning has arrived. The post California Schools Stay Open Despite Plummeting Enrollment appeared first on Reason.com. (FOX40.COM) U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California Phillip Talbert announced his resignation on Tuesday after over two years as the top federal prosecutor in the northern part of the state. I thank President Biden for nominating me to the position and am grateful to the late Senator Dianne Feinstein, Senator Alex Padilla, and Attorney General Merrick Garland for their support and confidence in me to lead this office of dedicated public servants, Talbert wrote in his resignation letter. New national monuments to be established in Northern, Southern California Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talbert served as the chief federal law enforcement officer and lead prosecutor for 34 counties through the Central Valley and Northern California and oversaw nearly 100 attorneys and 100 non-attorney staff across three offices. Talbert joined the Eastern District in 2011 as First Assistant U.S. Attorney and would serve as Acting and Interim U.S. Attorney from 2016-2017. In 2017 he resumed his position as First Assistant U.S. Attorney before once again being called to serve as Acting and Interim U.S. Attorney from 2021-2022. In June 2022, President Biden appointed Talbert as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Northern California traffic stop leads to drugs, weapons bust Talberts resignation will take effect at midnight on Jan. 11. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele M. Beckwith will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California until a new appointment is made by the Trump administration. According to a news release announcing his resignation, notable criminal cases the office has handled under Talberts leadership include: Criminal prosecutions of major frauds, including cases against the two co-founders and co-CEOs of Bitwise Industries, who received 11-year and 9-year sentences for a $115 million fraud centered on a failed Fresno-based tech startup; a former congressman charged with fraud in conducting his private business dealings; the owner of a chain of supermarkets who allegedly employed undocumented workers then used their immigration status to avoid paying for overtime; and a former local water district manager convicted of a long-running scheme to divert and sell managed water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigations and cases undertaken in concert with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to reduce violent crime, including prosecution of MS-13 and Aryan Brotherhood defendants who committed and directed murders, other violent crimes, and drug trafficking crimes, and the prosecution of illegal firearms trafficking schemes, including a ring alleged to have illegally brought over 500 guns from Georgia to the Eastern District of California and another unrelated scheme that allegedly resulted in the sale of over 100 guns used in crimes across California and neighboring states. Cases targeting individuals who prey upon and sexually exploit children, including multiple defendants who extorted minors online for child sexual abuse material, multiple defendants who used hidden recording devices to surreptitiously film children in various stages of undress, and a defendant sentenced to 30 years for the sex trafficking of a minor. The indictment of two individuals, leaders of the Terrorgram Collective, for allegedly soliciting over Telegram the murder of federal officials and mass hate crimes as well as other federal crimes. The investigation and indictment of individuals operating major drug trafficking organizations in and through the district, including one case that led to seizures of 12,900 pounds of methamphetamine, 23 kilograms of fentanyl, and 35 firearms, and another case involving counterfeit pills containing fentanyl trafficked by a defendant who called himself the M30 king of Fresno. 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 FOX40 News. CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) A Northern Cambria man is facing charges after he allegedly took money from people to plan a bus trip, but never returned the money when it was canceled. Duane Leamer, 49, is facing felony charges after multiple people reached out to the Northern Cambria Borough Police Department about him failing to return money, according to a criminal complaint. On Dec. 11, officers spoke with a victim who came forward about Leamer. The victim told police she paid $125 for a bus ticket to New York and that the person who planned the trip had canceled. She said that Leamer was the planner and had failed to refund her the money she paid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State College PD seeks to find three separate theft, fraud suspects According to the complaint, officers spoke with Leamer who allegedly said he was in contact with the groups leaders and was waiting for the bus company to refund him the money. Leamer did give police a complete list of the people who paid for tickets. Police wrote that they advised Leamer he needed to contact every person on that list and explain what was happening. However, police spoke with the victims at a later date and all said that Leamer ignored all their calls and had not reached out to them, according to the affidavit. Multiple people continued to reach out to the police department about Leamer failing to return their money and police estimated that the amount missing was $2,250 at the time. Officers noted in the complaint that as of Dec. 19 between 15-20 emails were sent to them from people who were missing refunds from Leamer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leamer is facing multiple felony charges of theft by deception and receiving stolen property. He was arraigned on Jan. 3 and released on unsecured $25,000 bail. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Jan. 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 WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. The state of Canada would profoundly alter the electoral map of American national politics, almost entirely in the Democratic Partys favour. (X/@JustinTrudeau) Since his re-election, Donald Trump has drawn plenty of attention for neo-annexationist propositions made on social media about the Panama Canal, Greenland and Canada including in the hours following Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation announcement. For a supposed anti-interventionist, its odd that Trump is enthusiastically embracing ideas from the era of intense American imperialism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe thats what Trump is going for. Perhaps he is trying to revive the expansionist spirit of Theodore Roosevelt, William McKinley and James Polk. Canadians who paid attention to their history lessons will sense some neo-Polkism in these designs a 54-40 or fight call for the 21st century. Mild responses Not surprisingly, Trumps annexation propositions have been rebuked from the leaders of Panama, Greenland and Canada, some more forcefully than others. Canadas response has been mild at best. Outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the man Trump now routinely mocks as the governor of Americas 51st state, counter-posted a video from 2010 in which an avuncular Tom Brokaw explains Canada to Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau and Canadas cabinet ministers have also sought an audience with the president-elect at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida to find away around Trumps ruinous tariff threats, a far greater threat to Canadas national interests than his annexation bluster. Some Canadians may have favourable views of the United States but vanishingly few are interested in Canada becoming a 51st state. Still, lets play out Trumps hypothetical. Lets say that Canada became the 51st state in the American union. What would be the electoral implications for the U.S.? Democrats would benefit Trump and his Republican Party would certainly not like the answer: the GOP might never win a national election ever again. Indeed, the state of Canada would profoundly alter the electoral map of American national politics, almost entirely in the Democratic Partys favour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To see how, consider how the 51st state would be represented in the institutions of American government. Lets begin in the House of Representatives because thats where integrating Canada would be the trickiest. In the U.S., House seats are allocated on the basis of representation-by-population, which, based on the 2020 U.S. census, means one House seat for every 761,169 people. With its population of 41 million, Canada would be apportioned about 54 seats, becoming a bigger state than California. Combine those 54 House seats with the two senators allocated to every state, and you would have an electoral powerhouse north of the 49th parallel. None of this would be good news for Republicans. Of course, this assumes that annexation can overcome American political fights over reapportionment and redistricting, and that Canada would accept the American constitutional and legal formula for allocating seats that would whittle 338 House of Commons seats down to 54 and its 105 senators down to two. But no matter. Most Canadians would vote Democrat Lets look now at how Canadians would alter American elections. Grafting Canadas political culture onto U.S. party politics would be awkward, so lets make another assumption. Presume that Conservative Party of Canada voters would vote Republican and left-of-Conservative voters would vote for Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Generally, this would include supporters of the Liberals, New Democrats, Greens and the Bloc Quebecois. Heres where the 51st state becomes a big problem for Trump. Since Canadas right-wing parties united in 2003, the Conservative Party of Canada has won an average of 35 per cent of the popular vote. Canadas left-of-Conservative parties, on the other hand, have won an average of 63 per cent of the vote in that time period. In American terms, that means about two-thirds of voters in the state of Canada would vote Democrat and one third would vote Republican, or 36-18 in the Democrats favour. Looking back over the past quarter century, that margin would have turned every Republican House majority into a Democratic majority (except for 2010). Indeed, left-of-Conservative voters in the state of Canada would make it far more difficult for Republicans to win a House majority ever again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Senate, the two-thirds of Canadas left-of-Conservative voters would likely send a pair of Democrats to the Senate. Thats not enough to alter the balance of power, but in a world of single-digit margins of victory in the Senate, its not trivial. After all, every senator counts, especially for things like Supreme Court and cabinet confirmations. Canadianizing the Electoral College Now comes the big question: how would the state of Canada alter the Electoral College? Each state has Electoral College votes that are the sum of their House representatives and senators. We also know (with some exceptions) that the winner of the popular vote in each state takes all of that states the Electoral College votes. Where would the state of Canadas 56 Electoral College votes go? Given Canadas left-of-Conservative leanings, the state of Canadas Electoral College votes would likely go to the Democrat presidential candidate every time. That would have swung four Republican presidential victories in the Democrats favour this century (2000, 2004, 2016, and 2024), reflecting a fundamentally changed American electoral math. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So perhaps its time for Trump to recognize that Canada is a different country with its own history and political culture. Better yet, Trump could recognize that his churlish taunts trivialize a needless trade war that risks hundreds of billions of dollars and thousands of jobs on both sides of the border. Trump could recognize that the countries he is antagonizing are part of a strategic network of allies that sustains American power in the world. If thats not enough for Trump to act seriously, he could at least follow his electoral instincts. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. OTTAWA (Reuters) -Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday dismissed a suggestion by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump that he might use "economic force" to make Canada the 51st U.S. state. "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States," he said in a post on X. "Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, speaking in Mar-a-Lago, was asked if he was considering using military force to acquire Canada. No, economic force, he responded. Because Canada and the United States, that would really be something. Trump, who has long complained about Canada's trade surplus with the U.S., had earlier told reporters the border was an "artificially drawn line." Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada, which sends 75% of all goods and services exports south of the border. Earlier on Tuesday, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Trump's comments "show a complete lack of understanding of what makes Canada a strong country ... We will never back down in the face of threats." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau announced on Monday that he would step down in the coming months, bowing to pressure from lawmakers alarmed by his Liberal Party's unpopularity. The next election must be held by Oct. 20 and polls predict a crushing win for the official opposition Conservatives. "Canada will never be the 51st state. Period. We are a great and independent country," Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said in a post on X. (Reporting by David Ljunggren, editing by Ismail Shakil, Cynthia Osterman and Alistair Bell) TORONTO (AP) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party finds itself in search of a new leader while dealing with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's threats to impose steep tariffs on Canadian goods and with Canada's election just months away. Trudeau announced his resignation after facing an increasing loss of support both within his party and in the country. The 53-year-old scion of Pierre Trudeau, one of Canadas most famous prime ministers, became deeply unpopular with voters over a range of issues, including the soaring cost of food and housing as well as surging immigration. What's next for Canada? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau said he plans to stay on as prime minister until a new party leader is chosen, but a new Canadian leader is unlikely to be named before Trump is inaugurated on Jan. 20. The political upheaval comes at a difficult moment for Canada. Trump keeps calling Canada the 51st state and has threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Canadian good s. He is preoccupied with the U.S. trade deficit with Canada, erroneously calling it a subsidy. Trump said Tuesday he would not use the military to force Canada to join the U.S., but would rely on economic force. If Trump applies tariffs, a trade war looms and Canada has vowed to retaliate. There isnt a snowballs chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States, Trudeau posted on X. Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each others biggest trading and security partner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said the U.S. doesn't need anything from Canada. About 60% of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, which is also the top export destination for 36 U.S. states. When will there be a new prime minister? The Liberals need to elect a new leader before Parliament resumes March 24 because all three opposition parties say they will bring down the Liberal government in a no-confidence vote at the first opportunity, which would trigger an election. The new leader might not be prime minister for long: A spring election would very likely favor the opposing Conservative Party. Who will be the next leader of Trudeau's party? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not often that central bank governors get compared to rock stars. But potential Liberal leader Mark Carney, the former head of the Bank of Canada, was considered just that in 2012. He was named the first foreigner to serve as governor of the Bank of England since it was founded in 1694. The appointment of a Canadian won bipartisan praise in Britain after Canada recovered faster than many other countries from the 2008 financial crisis. He gained a reputation along the way as a tough regulator. Few people in the world have Carneys qualifications. He is a highly educated economist with Wall Street experience who is widely credited with helping Canada dodge the worst of the 2008 crisis and helping the U.K. manage Brexit. Carney has long been interested in entering politics and becoming prime minister but lacks political experience. He said in a statement he is encouraged by support he has had, and that hes considering his decision with family over the next few days. Former finance minister Chrystia Freeland is also a front-runner. Trudeau told Freeland last month he no longer wanted her to serve in that position but that she could remain deputy prime minister and the point person for U.S.-Canada relations. An official close to Freeland said she couldnt continue serving as a minister knowing she no longer enjoyed Trudeau's confidence. The official spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The person added it's far too early to make declarations but said Freeland would talk to her colleagues this week and discuss next steps. After she resigned, Trump called Freeland totally toxic" and "not at all conducive to making deals." Freeland is many things that would seem to irritate Trump: a liberal Canadian former journalist. She is a globalist who sits on the board of the World Economic Forum. Freeland, who is of Ukrainian heritage, also has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its war against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another possible candidate is the new finance minister, Dominic LeBlanc. The former public safety minister, and a close friend of Trudeau, LeBlanc recently joined the prime minister at a dinner with Trump at Mar-a-Lago. LeBlanc was Trudeau's babysitter when Trudeau was a child. Is it too late for the Liberals? Recent polls suggest the Liberals' chances of winning the next election look slim. In the latest poll by Nanos, the Liberals trail the opposition Conservatives 45% to 23%. Trudeaus announcement might help the Liberals in the polls in the short run and, once a new leader is selected, things could improve further at least for a little while but that would not be so hard because, right now, theyre so low in the polls, said Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, because Trudeau waited so long to announce his resignation, this will leave little time to his successor and the party to prepare for early elections, Beland said. Many analysts say Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre will form the next government. Poilievre, for years the partys go-to attack dog, is a firebrand populist who blamed Canadas cost of living crisis on Trudeau. The 45-year-old Poilievre is a career politician who attracted large crowds during his run for his party's leadership. He has vowed to scrap a carbon tax and defund the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. The News Corporate Canada has greeted Justin Trudeaus resignation with a mixture of relief and trepidation. The outgoing prime minister read the room and made the right call, said Candace Laing, CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, calling for an end to wasteful spending and over-taxation. But the power vacuum in Ottawa comes at a perilous moment for a G7 economy already battling slow growth and weak productivity, given Donald Trumps threat to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian imports. Trudeaus name is now mostly uttered after a swear word in Canadas business community, according to Andrew Willis in the Globe and Mail, who argued that higher taxes, heavy regulation, and a general sense this government just doesnt care have destroyed the Liberal brand in corporate circles. For Roger Martin, the renowned management professor who spent 15 years as Dean of the University of Torontos Rotman School of Management, there was no place more negative to go for Canadian companies after the leadership of a former school drama teacher who, he said, displayed little understanding of business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He gave me no sense he understood what the job [of prime minister] was, Martin told Semafor: I dont think theres anything worse than a guy whos good at snowboarding and reasonably good at teaching. There is no downside to this. It wasnt just business leaders. Trudeau also managed to alienate union workers, including the Canadian Union of Public Employees, the countrys largest. There is no question that Canada needs new leadership and, after a decade in power, the Liberals have not earned another chance, no matter who is leading them, CUPE said in a statement endorsing the New Democratic Party. The time has come for a shift that truly prioritizes the well-being of Canadians. Know More Italy is now the only member of the G7 that has not had a government turnover in the last 12 months. Trudeaus premiership began to unravel last month, after he told then-finance minister Chrystia Freeland that she would soon be replaced in favor of Mark Carney, according to a Bloomberg report. Freeland opted to resign, launching a blistering, public fusillade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You and I have found ourselves at odds about the best path forward for Canada, she wrote of Trudeau. His response to Trumps tariff threats a widely criticized flight down to Mar-a-Lago among them amounted to costly political gimmicks. Instead, Freeland wrote, the government ought to have pursued a determined effort to fight for capital and investment and the jobs they bring. Even those business leaders who expressed gratitude for Trudeaus three terms of service concurred with that sentiment. It is unfortunate ... that the relationship between the federal government and the private sector was often at odds, especially around the need for fiscal responsibility and policies that enable long-term economic growth, including embracing our energy abundance, said Goldy Hyder, CEO of the Business Council of Canada. U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon temporarily blocked the Justice Department from releasing special counsel Jack Smiths report on President-elect Trumps two prosecutions, granting a request from his legal team. The ruling from Cannon comes after Trumps two co-defendants in the Mar-a-Lago documents case asked her to bar the release of both sections of Smiths report, including that dealing with Trumps election interference case. Its not clear the extent of Cannons purview over the case, as a prior ruling from her tossing the case has been appealed to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. That court has ordered a response by 10 a.m. on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cannon said her ruling blocking any transmittance of the report would remain in effect until three days after any appeals court ruling unless the 11th Circuit rules otherwise. The Florida-based federal judge said the ruling would preserve the status quo and prevent irreparable harm. The ruling appears to apply to both cases that would be covered by Smiths report, even though Cannon only oversaw the documents case. Cannon made the decision despite an earlier notice from Smiths team saying they would respond to the substance of Trumps request by 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Smiths office declined to comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for Trumps two co-defendants appeared to acknowledge potential issues with Cannon weighing in on a matter no longer before her asking the 11th Circuit to order a limited remand of the case back to Cannon. Its an unusual request that asks a higher court to cede to a lower court judge. There has been a flurry of action in the case ignited late Monday when Trumps Mar-a-Lago co-defendants, valet Walt Nauta and property manager Carlos de Oliveira, asked Cannon to bar the reports release. They have since filed a similar motion before the 11th Circuit. Attached to the initial filings is a letter from Trumps legal team to Attorney General Merrick Garland asking him to fire Smith and leave the decision of whether to release the report to a Trump-appointed attorney general. Garland, not Smith, determines whether the report should be publicly released. Smith has worked to wind down both prosecutions after Trump was reelected, and special counsel regulations dictate appointees close their work with a final report. Trumps attorneys letter to Garland describes it as a two-volume report, one covering each case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Smith moved to dismiss the Mar-a-Lago case for Trump citing Justice Department policy barring prosecution of a sitting president, it is continuing to litigate the matter with respect to Nauta and de Oliveira. Cannon last year tossed the entirety of the case with respect to all three men, finding that Smith was unlawfully appointed something prosecutors say flies in the face of 50 years of precedent regarding special counsel regulations. The Justice Department has appealed that ruling, handing the case off to federal prosecutors in Florida. The 11th Circuit for months has weighed that appeal, and any reversal of Cannon would reignite the case. The appeals court has previously reversed Cannons rulings, including one appointing a special master to review the documents collected from Trumps home for materials potentially protected by executive privilege, blocking their release to investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes repeatedly come under fire for her handling of Trumps case, ruling in favor of the president on various motions legal observers described as long-shot bids. The New York Times reported last year that two other judges sought to persuade her to hand off the Mar-a-Lago case given that her handling of the matter before charges were brought had generated significant scrutiny. Updated at 4:15 p.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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Following a News 4 report sharing claims that troubled electric vehicle manufacturer Canoo did not properly reimburse furloughed employees for expenses, or pay them their final paychecks in full, Canoo now says the company realized it made a miscalculation and will repay affected employees. On Thursday, News 4 reported numerous furloughed and former employees of Canoo a publicly-traded electric vehicle maker say the company did not properly pay them owed expenses and their final paychecks, possibly in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Former employee: Canoo never built vehicles in Oklahoma, most employees never moved to Oklahoma Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can read the original report here. On Saturday, two days after News 4s report aired, a Canoo spokesperson reached out to News 4. The spokesperson said, after seeing News 4s report, the company realized it had made a mistake in how it calculated its employees paychecks prior to furloughing them last month. The spokesperson said Canoo will pay the affected employees the proper amount owed to them within three business days. Furloughed worker: Canoo still owes employees thousands for final paychecks, expensed purchases; company not answering The spokesperson sent News 4 the following statement on Saturday: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon being notified of a miscalculation in the final paycheck of its furloughed employees, the company took immediate action to resolve the issue and ensure full compensation for those affected. Payments for the missed days will be issued within three business days. Canoo Spokesperson Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (NEXSTAR) Lawmakers are back in Springfield for a short lame duck session before the new General Assembly is sworn in on Wednesday. Lame duck sessions are typically reserved for last-minute pushes for big pieces of legislation that didnt make it to the finish line in the Spring, but it is possible for new ideas to take shape and pass quickly. Brenden Moore with Lee Enterprises and Jerry Nowicki from Capitol News Illinois to talk about the priority list for lawmakers, and how it may be an uneventful trip to Springfield before inauguration. 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. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Two workers were seriously injured after a car struck them and their garbage truck in Batavia Tuesday morning. According to Batavia Police, the incident happened around 7:16 a.m. on Ellicott Avenue. Two workers, ages 33 and 39, were hit as they were standing outside working on a normal garbage pickup. The two men, who were employees of Casella Waste Systems, were helped by an off-duty Batavia Firefighter and other bystanders before Mercy EMS and Batavia Fire Department arrived. They were both transported to Strong Memorial Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Police, the 38-year-old driver may have experienced a medical event that caused her to lose control. She was taken to RRH in Batavia as a precaution and was issued a traffic ticket for failure to keep right. Anyone who may have witnessed the accident is asked to call Batavia Police at 585-345-6350. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Even a bitterly cold Monday, Jan. 6, did not stop a steady stream of visitors to Carter Presidential Center, where former President Jimmy Carter lies in repose ahead of his national funeral in Washington D.C. Stanley Dunlap/Georgia Recorder Admirers of former President Jimmy Carter braved frigid temperatures Monday to pay respects to the late president before his six-day funeral procession moves to Washington. Hundreds of people continued to flock to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, open since Saturday evening, while Carter lies in repose within a casket draped with the American flag surrounded by a guard of honor provided by the military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Ploss, 93, visited the center on Monday to pay respects to a fellow graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his graduation from the academy, Carter became a Navy pilot several classes before Ploss, who would also become a pilot. The Ploss family members spent the weekend visiting the Carters Habitat for Humanity project in Plains, before completing the trip Monday at the Carter center, said Ploss son, Carl Ploss. Weve been kind of tracking Jimmys spiritual journey here, and this is the last step, obviously, Carl Ploss said. But in a sense, its not the last step, its just the end of the physical journey. Theres a lot that will continue. Carter was in hospice care for nearly two years before he died last month in the Plains home he shared with former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who died in late 2023 at the age of 96. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter admirers toured the Atlanta center that is filled with memorabilia commemorating the life of the longest living president when he died Dec. 29 at the age of 100. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Atlantas Chan and Stephanie Parker paid their respects to the late president on Monday, expressing their admiration for his humanitarian efforts and love of music. The common thread connecting many of the visitors at Carters last Georgia public viewing was their gratitude for the late ex-presidents charitable and humanitarian contributions after he left the White House, including more than 30 years working to help Habitat for Humanity build more than 4,000 homes. A pillar of character The Parkers said that their political views aligned with those espoused by Carter, a Democrat who the Parkers identified as a pillar of character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes a truly great man, a truly great humanitarian, a good person and good president, Stephanie Parker said. He loved music, and I love music. He was just a great person. I dont think well ever see anyone else like him again. Atlanta residents Stephanie and Chan Parker visited Carter Presidential Center on Monday, Jan. 6, to pay respects to the late former President Jimmy Carter. Stanley Dunlap/Georgia Recorder The six-day state honors for Carter began on Saturday with a motorcade traversing southwest Georgias countryside before arriving at the state Capitol in downtown Atlanta. The funeral procession stopped along the way outside Carters childhood farm in Archery, where National Park Service rangers rang the same bell a young Jimmy Carter did numerous times growing up. A crowd of people held American flags during the funeral procession that passed through Plains Main Street on Saturday. Four Georgia governors and many other political luminaries from both sides of the political aisle paid their respects to Carter as the hearse carrying the late ex-president made a brief ceremonial stop Saturday in front of the state Capitol. The procession would make its way to the Carter Presidential Center for an evening memorial service followed by the start of public visitation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters remains will begin a journey at 6 a.m. Tuesday to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state in the Rotunda of the Capitol before Thursdays funeral service at the National Cathedral. Then, Carter will return to Georgia, where his remains will be buried at his longtime home in Plains, next to his late wife of 77 years. Carters legacy extends well beyond his time in politics, when he served as a state senator and governor in Georgia. He ushered in an increase in the number of Black state government employees following the end of the Civil Rights Movement during the early 1970s. A number of Carters accomplishments during his presidency include diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China, relinquishing control of the Panama Canal and negotiating the Camp David Accords, a 1979 historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel This story first appeared in the Georgia Recorder, a member with the Phoenix in the nonprofit States Newsroom. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) A man accused of killing his wife and burning her corpse in Carter County pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on Tuesday. Brandon Carrier pleaded guilty in Carter County Criminal Court to the second-degree murder of Shannon Marie Isaacs in 2022. He had originally been charged with first-degree murder. PREVIOUS: Man facing murder charge after wifes burned body found in vehicle Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carrier had also pleaded guilty to abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence. News Channel 11 was in the courtroom on Tuesday as Carrier entered the guilty plea. He was sentenced to 37 years on the murder charge to be served concurrently with the abuse of a corpse and tampering with evidence charges. Carrier was scheduled to go to trial in April prior to pleading guilty. Isaacs children and her brother had the opportunity to speak to Carrier and the court on Tuesday. Her loved ones, whom Judge Stacy Street noted have been at every court hearing, did not offer forgiveness and said Carrier had not appeared to show any remorse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandon, you took away the only person that held our family together, and now were in shambles, Shawna Williams, Isaacs daughter, said from the stand through tears. Well never be the same. My mom put everyone before herself. She loved fiercely. Ill never experience a love even close to what she gave to us. You took away a beautiful soul, and I will never forgive you. Isaacs son Blake boldly told Carrier he would be waiting when Carrier is released from prison. Ill be 59 years old when you get out. I aint going nowhere. You know that, right? Blake Isaacs said from the stand. Isaacs had to be reprimanded by Judge Stacy Street for vulgar name-calling directed towards Carrier. The victims brother, Shane Crowe, also testified. He was the one who found the burned vehicle containing Isaacs body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most just punishment you could ever receive is to burn in hell for eternity. Im glad this case has been resolved and come to an end so my sister can rest in peace. 37 years is not long enough when you deserve death, Crowe told Carrier. Assistant District Attorney General Dennis Brooks said the plea agreement saves the family from a long trial. Its bittersweet today because, in reality, hes guilty of first-degree murder. I want to convict him of that. But doing that produces a round of appeals and post-conviction hearings that this case never comes to rest for years, Brooks told News Channel 11. Carrier was arrested after Isaacs body was found burned inside a vehicle on Dry Branch Rd. on Aug. 23, 2022. She was 35 and the mother of five children. Her mother, Jackie, is now raising those children. She told News Channel 11 that she is relieved the case is over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im glad he got what he got, said Jackie Shell. He should have gotten more than what he did get, but at least maybe now Shannon can rest. In December, Carriers attorney had hoped to move him to the Unicoi County Jail due to Carriers claims of mistreatment at the Carter County Detention Center. A court spokesperson told News Channel 11 its not been decided yet where Carrier will serve his sentence. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. When Johnny Wactor found three people in masks trying to steal the catalytic converter from his Toyota Prius last May, one of the thieves yelled "No!" before his "hot-headed" companion fired a single shot into the "General Hospital" actor's chest, a detective testified Monday. New details about the case came at a preliminary hearing for Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, who are charged with murdering Wactor in downtown Los Angeles. The defendants, both 18, have pleaded not guilty. In a jailhouse conversation secretly recorded by authorities, Estrada said he hadn't wanted to "work" stealing catalytic converters with Barceleau, whom he called "hot-headed," said Det. Justin Howarth of the Los Angeles Police Department. Estrada claimed he yelled at Barceleau not to shoot before Barceleau pulled the trigger, Howarth said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicknamed "Smalls," the 5-foot, 6-inch, 110-pound Barceleau told an informant in a separate recording that he shot Wactor because the actor was "going after the homie" after finding them hoisting up his car to saw off its catalytic converter, Howarth said. Read more: Johnny Wactor's accused killers tied to thefts in L.A., Beverly Hills, Ontario, police say Wactor's killers left behind a 2-ton, rapid-pump floor jack next to the Prius. Police found the fingerprints of three men on the jack, according to testimony: Barceleau, Estrada and Leonel Gutierrez. Gutierrez has pleaded no contest to attempted robbery and grand theft. A fourth defendant, Frank "Littles" Olano, pleaded no contest to receiving stolen property and accessory after the fact. Gutierrez and Olano are due to be sentenced Jan. 15. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo directed Barceleau and Estrada to stand trial for Wactor's killing upon the completion of the preliminary hearing on Tuesday afternoon. The two men are due back in court Jan. 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense attorneys Kate Hardie and Vernon Patterson had argued to dismiss the charges because of insufficient evidence, but Olmedo said the prosecution met the low burden of probable cause, which is all that is needed for a case to advance beyond a preliminary hearing. On Monday, Howarth testified that Olano told an informant he received six catalytic converters from Barceleau, Estrada and Gutierrez on the night Wactor was killed. About 20 minutes before the homicide, cameras maintained by USC's Department of Public Safety captured thieves stealing the catalytic converter from a car less than two miles from where Wactor had parked his 2013 Prius before heading to a shift tending bar at the Level 8 lounge in the Moxy Hotel. Around 3:20 a.m., Wactor returned to his car with a co-worker, Anita Gibney, who told police they first thought the Prius was being towed. When they realized it was a theft, Gibney tried to discreetly take a photograph of the dark-colored sedan parked next to the Prius while Wactor confronted the thieves, LAPD Det. Keith Gonzales testified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's my car," he said. "What are you doing?" Then, Gibney said, she "heard a loud snap," Gonzales testified. Wactor fell back into Gibney, who asked if he was OK. "Nope," Wactor said. "I've been shot." The actor, 37, was pronounced dead 14 minutes later from a single gunshot to the chest, Gonzales said. Five hours after the homicide, Barceleau photographed himself brandishing a gun equipped with a laser sight, according to Howarth. Estrada posed with one arm around Barceleau, cash fanned out in his other hand. In the jailhouse sting, Barceleau said he gave the gun used to kill Wactor to his father, who disposed of it, Howarth testified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barceleau and Estrada are members of the Dukes clique of the Florencia-13 gang, Howarth said. Barceleau is also charged with assaulting police and leading them on a high-speed chase 11 days after Wactor was killed. Read more: California inmate recruited 'wives' to spread fentanyl across Alaska, feds say In court papers, prosecutors wrote that Barceleau and two other suspects were burglarizing a car parked on 28th Street in South Los Angeles when two neighbors stepped onto a balcony to see what was going on. Barceleau pointed the laser sight of his gun at them before fleeing, prosecutors allege. Chased by police, Barceleau drove 80 mph toward an LAPD cruiser on Figueroa Street and evaded arrest, prosecutors wrote. Barceleau has pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a search warrant affidavit, Howarth said police suspected Barceleau, Estrada, Gutierrez and Olano in seven other crimes. According to his affidavit, they include a kidnapping and robbery at a cannabis dispensary in Chatsworth. Authorities also suspect the men of burglarizing a Melrose Avenue boutique called Whole Lotta Cough Syrup, a rare sneaker vendor in Encino and pharmacies in Hollywood, North Hollywood and Sun Valley, although they have not been charged with these crimes. 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. Reduced hours went into effect at several US/Canada border crossings Monday. 4 crossings in Vermont and 4 in New York will no longer be open 24 hours. In New Yorks North Country, Trout River and Chateaugay are both now open 6AM to 6PM. Overton Corners is now open 6AM to 10PM, and Rouses Point is open from 8AM to 8PM. Local officials have been in touch with the federal government, trying to get the reduction reversed so the crossings would go back to 24 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chateaugay is a commercial port, as well. So, many of our truckers and our goods and services people that transport goods back and forth there will have to take alternative routes, said NYS Assemblyman Billy Jones. Often times they do travel before 6am in the morning and after 6pm at night. Another concern Jones addressed is that of emergency response crews that often cross the border to fight fires or provide mutual aid. Theres been communication with the Port Authority. They have said that there will be a person there to let them across the border, Jones said. CBP cites staffing shortages as the cause for the reductions. CBP said there just isnt enough manpower to keep these crossing open 24 hours. They also said there will be someone at each crossing overnight to allow emergency crews through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the issue is manpower, and theres going to be somebody there to let emergency vehicles in and out, why cant we come to a solution to keep the border open for those hours. asked Jones. Jones said he and his colleagues, including Gov. Hochul, will continue to press the federal government to re-open these crossings 24 hours. He also said hes hopeful the new administration may consider reversing the closures. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) What was supposed to be the first day back from break turned into an extra day off for many kids across Central Illinois. Champaign schools on the other hand dont resume classes until Wednesday. 1/5/25 1/6/25 Snowfall Reports One student from St. Matthews was expecting to go back to class today, but got to have some fun in the snow instead. Alexis Hunt said she and her siblings have been sledding here for years. Hunt said shes happy to have some more time off, but is also ready to start second semester. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urbana to implement sidewalk snow removal codes It was pretty fun. I was like, I didnt want to go back to school because its just a day back from break. So, this is kind of like relaxing, because part of me doesnt want to go back to school, but then I feel like I should probably go back so to learn and see my friends, Alexis Hunt said. Hunt says if she gets another snow day shell be back at the hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) Washington County Chancellor John Rambo has dismissed a lawsuit asking for a rerun of Novembers Johnson City election. Carter County man pleads guilty to killing wife, burning body in 2022 The lawsuit was filed on behalf of candidates who fell short of winning seats on the citys school board and commission, against the Washington County Election Commission. The plaintiffs complaint cannot be sustained, Rambo said during a lengthy explanation of his decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint, filed and argued by plaintiffs Jay Emberton (a city commission candidate) and Ryan Berkley, Zaire Gary and Sam Pettyjohn (school board candidates) stemmed mainly from a mistake in Carter Countys administration of ballots in the Johnson City election. At least some Heather Lane voters up to 44 were given Johnson City election ballots even though that street is not inside the city limits. Joe Wise defeated Aaron Murphy by 38 votes overall. While he didnt spare the Carter County Election Commission from criticism, Rambo said the plaintiffs didnt claim fraud, and the mistake appeared to be an honest one. Tight JC election results certified despite glitch Voiding an election is a drastic remedy, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for the Washington County Election Commission filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit in December. They argued that the six votes at issue in Washington County werent enough to tip the election, and that because Murphy wasnt a plaintiff, the three unsuccessful school board candidates and Emberton, who finished out of the running in the City Commission election, didnt have standing. It is not the responsibility and it is not proper for a judge to void an election due to mistakes being made that do not change the results of the election for the parties who are before the court, Rambo said. Citing a section of Tennessee law on elections, Rambo said it would require Aaron Murphy to be a party. Rambo, referencing the federal Bush v Gore decision from the 2000 presidential election, said that the only potential plaintiff who might have been allowed to take a suit to trial was Aaron Murphy. Murphy finished 38 votes behind Joe Wise for the third and final seat in the election, but he was not a plaintiff in the lawsuit. Rambo likened Embertons position to that of 2,000 third-party candidate Ralph Nader, who received fewer than 100,000 votes compared to two million-plus for Al Gore and George W. Bush in the state of Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ralph Nader could not have pursued that case, because nothing that he could have argued would have made him the victor in Florida, Rambo said. Rambo also made it clear that even if Murphy had filed suit, he likely would have dismissed the complaint. Lawyers for the election commission argued that because Carter County had not also been a defendant in the lawsuit, then at most only six votes were in question not enough to potentially change the outcome. Rambo cited that fact as a second reason for siding with the Washington County Election Commission and dismissing the suit. The Carter County Election Commission is not a defendant, Rambo said. They are the ones who certified the votes for the 44, the numbers that are sufficient to get to a number that equals or exceeds the difference between the two candidates who actually received the most votes for the third position, Joe Wise and Aaron Murphy, and they are not a party before the court to defend their results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emberton told News Channel 11 after the hearing that while he believed the plaintiffs had a good case, he understood and supported Rambos legal reasoning. He gave both parties absolute time to make our points and brought up case law, asked us if we knew of case law that he did not know of, Emberton said. He was thorough, he was fair and he gave equal consideration. Emberton argued during the hearing that the suit was as much about election integrity as it was about the potential for one candidate to have overcome the margin of disputed votes. Later, he said he was glad the plaintiffs filed the suit. I want to make sure that the people of Johnson City see that their candidates are interested and are invested in the process, he said. Its not about the outcome. Its not about whether we won or we lost our seats. It was about making sure that the citizens voices were heard and that every vote counted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Geoff Lindley, who represented the Washington County Election Commission, agreed that Rambo put a lot of thought into this. He said because the Johnson City Commission election doesnt have just one winner, and because the city spans three counties, the case had few precedents to draw from. Lindley called the dismissal appropriate. You did not have before the court a plaintiff where, by their own allegations, whether you look at a 50-vote difference, which is what the complaint shows, or a 60-vote difference they increased it by 10 when they responded to our motion to dismiss that would not have a difference in any of the four plaintiffs races, Lindley said. Rambo called voiding an election a drastic remedy, but followed his dismissal ruling with particular criticism of the 44 votes within Carter County that could potentially have changed the outcome. Rambo said he did not condone those mistakes even if they were honest ones. The court in dismissing the plaintiffs complaint does not condone, if it is true, the six votes in Washington County and more significantly the 44 votes in Carter County, Rambo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he added that since he had no legal basis to void the election, there are other means to address the concerns on the conduct of the election. It can be brought to the attention of the Carter County Election Commission and its administrator for them to administratively deal with their processes so that theres no question about future elections. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Senate Republican leadership for the 2025 session after caucus elections on Nov. 14, 2024. From left to right: Sens. Daniel Zolnikov, Dennis Lenz, Tom McGillvray, Matt Regier, Ken Bogner, Sue Vinton and Barry Usher. (Photo by Blair Miller, Daily Montanan) As it stands now, the Montana Legislature has more than 30 bills ready to go to try and get the states judiciary, a co-equal branch of government, to heel to its whims and will. This is not a new tactic by the Republicans in Helena, rather a four-year effort that looks to continue unabated for years or until the Republicans take a civics course or lose power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historically, their efforts to limit the courts, and prevent them from striking down bad laws that lawmakers create, tend to be the equivalent of nibbling around the edges and not successful. But thats not to say that of the thousands of bills that are being drafted for consideration, some of them couldnt inflict considerable damage to an independent judiciary. For example, the movement to politicize and require party affiliation for judges is a pernicious and terrible idea and I would know: I covered Wisconsin courts that have a system similar to what Montana is proposing, and it takes every issue and makes it one of politics and not law. And thats why groups studying the courts point out that some of the least effective state judicial systems are the ones that have turned them from non-partisan to political. Its also why any successful attempt to require party affiliation in the courts should be met with a constitutional drive to eliminate it, such that the Montana Legislature cant turn every state issue into a partisan battle, something that most Montanans grow weary of. And that leads me to question why the Republicans have used a considerable amount of their time during the short legislative sessions to try, with mixed results, to reshape the judiciary in their own image. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason why their efforts have fallen so flat is that their interpretation of a problem is really not a problem. In other words, they dont realize that the reason the Montana courts continue to irritate, inflame and enrage them by thwarting their will isnt because of any laws theyve passed, its because of the state Constitution. In other words, if the problem with Montana is the state Constitution, then the only remedy is changing the state Constitution. But that means renegotiating with the people of Montana its contract for governing. The Montana Constitution is something that has been repeatedly pointed to as a model upon which other countries have based their own compacts with their respective constituents. What is amazing to me still, even as a native-born Montanan who has had the opportunity to live and practice journalism elsewhere, is that few residents in other states have as much awareness of their states respective constitution as the average Montana has of theirs. In fact, some if not many residents often believe they live under one constitution, the U.S. Constitution. But there are 50 states and 50 distinct state constitutions, often with several unique quirks and features. But none is so forward-looking and arguably as comprehensive as Montanas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is something to be proud of, and its also something that, maybe better than any other states, represents the independent, ferocious and libertarian streak that Montana has embodied for generations. Constitutions are something special, something almost above the law itself: They are the social contract between the governing and the governed, which spells out the things that leaders and officials can do on behalf of the people, the things they must do, and the powers reserved to the people. For example, in the Republicans never-ending love-affair with fossil fuels, they have manipulated and even gutted Montana statute in order to try to push through more mining, more oil and gas production and more polluting power plants, including coal, despite a national and even world trend against such ideas. And it has been a source of almost unmitigated rage for Republican lawmakers that the courts have consistently and calmly rejected those efforts, not in a power struggle to show up the lawmakers (although its certainly been interpreted as such by the legislative leadership recently), but because the states constitution guarantees a clean and healthful environment not just for the current generation, but for the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remember that part of the constitution was formulated in the wake of a century-plus degradation by large, out-of-state corporations that wrecked our air, water and land, and still continue to jeopardize the health of residents today. Thats why delegates decided to add the strongest environmental protections for the last best place. The quest for a clean environment is not a matter of opinion, its a matter of public record, and its something that nearly three-quarters of Montanans still ferociously support, and for good reason. We can still visit the nations largest Superfund site in Butte. We still fret about a resumption of mining activities near arguably the states most prized river, the Smith. But what we may be experiencing is a predictable pattern where the state Legislature is creating a cottage industry for attorneys as it passes more laws that run afoul of the constitution, only to have years-long battles that cost the taxpayers millions. Republicans argue that the highly trained attorneys who occupy the states court system dont understand the law like they do, which is the equivalent of arguing with your doctor just because you have Google. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, its the Republican leadership that simply cant or wont understand that no matter how many times Montanans keep sending them back to the Legislature, they cannot avoid the constitution. Senate Majority Leader Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, talks about guarding the power of the Legislature jealously. Thats fine. Just let the people guard their constitution with equal zeal. On 16 March 2024, British tourist Jake Taylor boarded a ferry to Bali from the picturesque Indonesian island of Nusa Lembongan, after spending several days exploring its remote coves and beaches. The 26-year-old was enjoying a final holiday before starting a new life in Australia. But on the very same day he was bobbing between the Lesser Sunda Islands, on a train approximately 7,700 miles away travelling from London to Edinburgh, a fare dodger presented his long-expired European Health Insurance Card to a ticket inspector. The incident set off a chain of events that ultimately saw Taylor wrongly prosecuted for an offence he did not commit, and embark on a lengthy battle to prove his innocence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His legal ordeal, while troubling, is far from unique. In fact, Taylor is just one of more than 730,000 people prosecuted under the Single Justice Procedure (SJP) in the year leading up to September 2024, for a range of typically minor offences including transport fare evasion, TV licence breaches, speeding and uninsured vehicles. The process can only be used for low-level and victimless offences that cannot result in a prison sentence, but can lead to significant fines and a criminal record if they are not paid. An investigation by The Telegraph has uncovered numerous wrongful prosecutions under the SJP, including cases of mistaken identity and charges against people who have passed away. There are concerns that many defendants swept up in the secretive, fast-track system do not know they are being prosecuted or are unable to fight cases, with official figures showing that the vast majority of people charged via the system in England and Wales never enter a plea. Campaigners fear the process is pockmarked by widespread dysfunction, and warn that the true scale of errors and miscarriages of justice is unknown. Errors and confusion Since being introduced in 2015, the SJP has allowed charges for minor offences to be dealt with by magistrates and legal advisers in closed courtrooms based on written submissions, unless defendants plead not guilty and demand a hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While those in favour of the process view it as clearer and faster for defendants and less costly and burdensome for overloaded courts, critics point to official research warning of errors and confusion. For his part, Taylor may not have known of his prosecution at all, because all official documentation relating to it was posted to a UK address he had left in March of last year. When a letter arrived at the London flat in September, as Taylor was settling into life in Sydney, a relative picked it up and offered to send a photo of its contents. According to London North Eastern Railway (LNER), Taylor had not been in Bali on 16 March, but was in fact on a train from Kings Cross to Edinburgh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Important: You have been charged with a criminal offence, read the document, which claimed Taylor had been caught on the 7.38am service without a ticket. It informed Taylor that under the Single Justice Procedure process, he had three weeks to either plead guilty and pay a large fine, or deny the charge and prepare for a court hearing. The letter did not state why he was believed to be the alleged fare dodger or offer any evidence regarding his identity, aside from a curt statement explaining: When requested by an authorised person for London North Eastern Railway, Mr Jacob Taylor failed to hand over a valid ticket entitling him/her to travel. Mr Jacob Taylor was issued with an Unpaid Fare Notice. A reminder letter has been sent and [LNER] have received no response or acceptable statement in mitigation [sic]. Taylor was baffled and scared. He had not been in Britain for months and had no idea how he was going to prove his innocence from Australia. Very easily I could have just never heard of this at all, and Im not sure what would have happened when I went back to the UK, he says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It ended up causing me quite a lot of stress, because if you plead not guilty, you get a court date and you have to attend in person which seeing as I live in Sydney, presented quite a major problem. Mistaken identity Taylor entered a not guilty plea online and, with the help of relatives, wrote to LNER directly. Basically, we offered to exchange all the evidence that we had that I wasnt on the train, for them telling us the evidence they had that it was me, he says. Through doing that they told us that someone presented my European Health Insurance Card. Taylor believes the document had been inside a wallet that was stolen from him more than seven years ago, and would have been long out of date. Im shocked that it was accepted as ID, he adds. The fact that I could receive a letter thats accusing me of a crime off the back of an old European Health Insurance Card being presented on a train is just bizarre to me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecution was formally withdrawn by LNER after Taylor offered up a mountain of evidence that he was in Indonesia and could not possibly have been on the train in question, including visas, ferry tickets, credit card transactions and time-stamped digital photos. LNER told The Telegraph it did not comment on individual cases, but only pursued instances of unpaid fares in court as a last resort and uses recognised databases and credit check companies to verify identities. Incredibly, the incident involving the rail operator was the second time Taylor had been wrongly prosecuted under the SJP in a case of mistaken identity. While at university in Manchester in 2016, he was accused of being behind the wheel of a speeding vehicle in London, and the DVLA later admitted an unexplained clerical error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first he learnt of that prosecution was a letter sent to his parents home demanding he surrendered his driving licence. I ended up having to go to magistrates court to plead not guilty, and then it was a gruelling process of trying to find out what was going on, Taylor recalls. Somehow they got their wires crossed and got my identity, my address and requested my drivers licence to destroy it. After I pleaded not guilty they set another court date, but before that my dad had basically managed to get them to admit it was an error on their side, and proved that it was nothing to do with me. Taylor says he found fighting the case really stressful, adding: Im not someone thats had run-ins with the law or anything like that, so being summoned to magistrates court out of the blue, especially when it all felt so unfair because I just knew outright it had nothing to do with me, was a pretty unpleasant experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time his second prosecution arose, Taylor says the first case had faded into a funny anecdote that I would tell people sometimes I went to court for a crime I didnt commit and then absolutely bizarrely it happened again. As far as we know, theres no relation between the two cases. It has just randomly happened twice. Pursuing the deceased Taylors extraordinary experience was not the only case of mistaken identity present in a random sample of 50 recent SJP prosecutions sampled by The Telegraph. A 27-year-old man from Mansfield who was charged with travelling on another LNER service without a ticket in March pleaded not guilty with a submission saying he was the repeated victim of fraud. This wasnt me, he wrote. I had someone using a picture of my personal ID on several train services in which I appealed and they closed the cases I have proof. Another man, who was prosecuted by Transport for London (TfL) for allegedly pushing through ticket barriers at Leicester Square station in September, also claimed mistaken identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pleading not guilty, the 21-year-old wrote that he was not at the station on that day, adding: This is not the first time Ive got letters sent home about this issue, Ive got friends and family who know my details anyone could have used them and stolen my identity. In other cases, prosecutions were triggered against people who had passed away. In September, the DVLA wrote to an 81-year-old Rochdale woman accusing her of keeping an uninsured vehicle, but it was her daughter who replied saying she had died in June 2023 nine months before the alleged offence and the car in question had been sold for scrap shortly afterwards. In another distressing case, a bereaved father was charged by the police with speeding in Devon, but said it had been his daughter who was behind the wheel of the car at the time. When the original notice was sent to me, I passed it on to her to sort out and she assured me that it was taken care of, the 76-year-old man wrote. She was found dead on 10 September 2024 whilst in the same car. The prosecution was later withdrawn. A DVLA spokesperson told The Telegraph that formal notifications must be made for sold and scrapped vehicles, or those being kept off the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a vehicle has not been taxed or has no insurance, we will write to the registered keeper multiple times and these letters give them the opportunity to make us aware of any mitigating circumstances, they added. Only when we have exhausted all other enforcement routes will a Single Justice Procedure notice be issued. Overwhelming complexity A report published in December by HM Courts and Tribunal Service highlighted the scale of the problems associated with SJP, revealing that in sampled cases from 2023, only half of police prosecutions for driving offences received a response and the proportion was even lower for other categories. Just a quarter of TV Licensing prosecutions received a plea, while the figure was 21 per cent for the DVLA, 19 per cent for TfL and only 8 per cent for Merseyrail. Officials said their research suggests there is confusion about the difference between the official court stage of a case and earlier letters, that people are overwhelmed by the length and complexity of documents and those from lower-income areas are less likely to fight prosecutions because they have broader financial concerns that may discourage them from engaging with their case. The report also warned of inaccurate address details for letters, as well as technical issues with the online portal where people are directed to enter pleas. Defendant engagement is important to give prosecutors an opportunity to review any mitigations raised and to withdraw the case if they believe it is no longer in the public interest to pursue it, it added. There has been media and public concern about vulnerable defendants being prosecuted and examples of defendants pleading guilty while also indicating mitigations related to mental health or other serious conditions. In several TV Licensing prosecutions reviewed by The Telegraph, people expressed distress and confusion at the way they were treated by the licensing inspectors. A mother whose Watford home was visited in August when she was home alone with her child said she let the officer in because she had nothing to hide, and that they watched no television or online content requiring a licence. In her not guilty plea, she said the inspector seemed to be losing his temper and accused him of recording information which was obviously a lie, adding: I got a bit worried about me and my child who was at home at that time. In another case, a 25-year-old woman from Keighley, in West Yorkshire, accused TV Licensing of harassment, writing in a not-guilty plea in November that she did not watch any content requiring a licence and adding: Your assumed evidence is false and completely inaccurate, and we have already refuted all previous accusations very clearly. We consider this persistent and continual harassment. A TV Licensing spokesperson told The Telegraph that officers were trained to be polite and fair, and followed set processes when conducting interviews, adding: TV Licensing has a duty to collect the licence fee from anyone who requires a licence, and we do our utmost to support customers while treating everyone fairly. Our primary aim is to support people in getting licensed so that they avoid prosecution. Prosecution is always a last resort, and will only proceed if there is sufficient evidence and any mitigation has been assessed to ensure that the public interest test is met. Miscarriages of justice While the SJP system allows magistrates to send cases back to prosecutors if they receive information suggesting defendants have been wrongly prosecuted or are vulnerable, safeguards rely on people receiving documents, being able to understand them and respond in writing within 21 days to make their case. If there is no response, magistrates proceed to consider the case without any evidence from defendants, and can find them guilty of the alleged offences and issue large fines. If people find about a prosecution at a later date as Taylor did when the DVLA tried to seize his driving licence they can make a statutory declaration that they were ignorant of the proceedings against them, causing the conviction to be overturned and a hearing to be set. They send the prosecution notices by normal mail so nobody has any idea how many are actually received by people who are supposed to receive them, says Penelope Gibbs, director of the Transform Justice charity. Its an unfair system and there are miscarriages of justice within it. People dont understand their rights and they have no access to free legal advice. The Telegraph has viewed four recent cases where people were fined 483 each after being prosecuted for allegedly having their feet on train seats, without entering any pleas. Notices by Merseyrail stated: It is an offence to interfere with the comfort or convenience of any person on the railway by putting your foot/feet on the seats/seat structure while on the train. Several other people charged with the offence contested the prosecutions, including a young woman whose case was withdrawn after she said her actions were not deliberate and that she was under significant emotional strain while travelling to a therapy session for sexual abuse survivors. I did not intend to break any rules or cause harm, the woman wrote. I placed my feet on the seat, not out of disregard for public property or the comfort of other passengers, but because I was distracted and anxious. Another woman prosecuted for the same offence pleaded guilty but told how she had been returning from a night shift and suffering from a migraine when caught with her feet up, and was then refused by train station staff when trying to pay the earliest 60 fine. But she was still fined 368. Other passengers prosecuted for the feet on seats offence including one man on his first visit to Britain said they did not know it was a crime. Suzanne Grant, the deputy managing director of Merseyrail, told The Telegraph the fines are enforced to reduce antisocial behaviour on the networks trains, and that the policy was clearly advertised with announcements and posters. Our customers tell us that they find people placing their feet on the seat or seat structure in front of them, both unhygienic and on occasion, intimidating, she added. A system unfit for purpose Gibbs argues the overarching SJP process was set up with insufficient safeguards over how it would operate in practice, while allowing the government to expand it without passing new laws. After going live in April 2015 for vehicle and travel-related prosecutions by the police, DVLA and TfL, it was widened by statutory instrument a year later to cover cases brought by TV Licensing, the Environment Agency, train operating companies and local authorities. In January 2023, the SJP was extended again to cover the prosecution of companies, not just individuals. The bit that really concerns me is this lack of participation, says Gibbs. It means we have a large swathe of the justice system where it appears that people who are being prosecuted are probably not understanding whats involved and the consequences. To me, if the plea rate is so low it means that the system is not fit for purpose. She adds that while the reasons for low plea rates have not been fully investigated, the evidence suggests that there are the ones who dont receive it [the legal documentation], some who put up two fingers and cant be bothered, and then all the ones probably the majority who for a myriad of reasons cant cope with engaging with the prosecution. It could be to do with having English as a second language, not understanding the form, mental health problems, homelessness we literally dont know. The SJP received little media attention until the Covid pandemic, when its use to prosecute alleged breaches of lockdown restrictions sparked several high-profile miscarriages of justice. Journalists have since exposed numerous cases where vulnerable people have been targeted under the SJP, as well as the wrongful application of relevant laws. In August, it emerged that more than 74,000 rail fare evasion cases had been wrongly prosecuted because train operators had applied the process to the wrong laws. The month before, TfL admitted wrongly telling people caught without a bus fare that they had no legal defence and in 2020, a review found police had been prosecuting people for alleged Covid lockdown breaches under the wrong law. Gibbs questions how it took years for the legal errors with rail prosecution to be noticed when each case was overseen by a magistrate and a legal adviser. The government set up no scrutiny mechanisms, the data is poor and there is very little transparency. The Ministry of Justice told The Telegraph it was in the process of redesigning the notices sent to people prosecuted under the SJP to ensure they are clear, and that a consultation will be launched early this year to look at enhancing safeguards, improving transparency and driving up prosecution standards. A spokesperson added: The Single Justice Procedure was designed to allow low-level offences to be dealt with swiftly, sparing people having to go to court. However, the government is reviewing what more can be done to support vulnerable defendants. But Gibbs says the problems with the system have so far been hidden and that the government must conduct a proper review, warning: Mitigation about vulnerability only comes out after people have been charged these prosecutors dont have the information and dont even try to get it so theyre prosecuting blind. People need to really look into it in a way they never have. Taylor fears his case is the tip of the iceberg, and that other people in his position may not have been able to fight to prove their innocence. They will know that a lot of these things fall through when they get challenged, so they should recognise that their process is pretty flawed, he says. Some of it feels predatory. Even having not committed a crime, a lot of people would be tempted to pay the fine because of the unknown of what will come down the line. It is just sort of set up to pressure people in a way that feels quite unfair. 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. BROOKHAVEN, Miss. (WJTV) A judge issued an order on Monday dismissing all charges against a father and son, who were accused of shooting at a FedEx driver in Mississippi. DMonterrio Gibson, a former FedEx driver, said he was shot at by Brandon and Gregory Case while delivering a package in January 2022. Gibson was not wounded during the encounter on January 24, 2022. The Cases were charged with attempted first-degree murder, conspiracy and shooting into the vehicle driven by Gibson, which did not have a FedEx logo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A mistrial was declared in August 2023 after Detective Vincent Fernando, with the Brookhaven Police Department, left out crucial evidence during the pretrial. Brookhaven protesters demand justice in FedEx driver shooting case The Daily Leader reported Judge David Strong stated in his order that defendants alleged numerous intentional discovery violations made by Fernando. Brookhaven Police Department detective Vincent Fernando, looks around the Lincoln County courtroom while testifying Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023, in Brookhaven, Miss., at the trial of two white men who are accused of chasing and shooting at a Black FedEx driver who had dropped off a package at a home. On Thursday, Aug. 18, 2023, the judge declared a mistrial in the case. (Hunter Cloud/The Daily Leader via AP) DMonterrio Gibson, right, and his mother, Sharon McLendon, await the start of the trial of two white men charged in an attack on Gibson, a FedEx employee who was making a delivery, Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, in Brookhaven, Miss. The judge declared a mistrial of the men who were charged with attempted first-degree murder, conspiracy and shooting into the vehicle driven by Gibson. (Hunter Cloud/The Daily Leader via AP) Gregory Case, the father, center, and Brandon Case, the son, right, speak with an attorney, Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2023, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in Brookhaven, Miss. Both men were indicted for conspiracy to murder, attempted murder and shooting into a motor vehicle in relation to a January 24, 2022 shooting at a Black FedEx driver. (Hunter Cloud/The Daily Leader via AP) Due to numerous intentional discovery violations made by the investigator, detective Vincent Fernando, and thus the state, the defendants have been deprived of a speedy trial, intentionally denied evidence, exposed to double jeopardy and denied due process in general. Having conducted a hearing and having reviewed the field and all pleadings, the court finds that the investigator in the case intentionally withheld evidence from the defense, even the District Attorney, on numerous occasions, resulting in egregious discovery violations by the state. These repeated intentional errors are a clear violation of the Rules of Criminal Procedure, as well as well-established case law, justifying the dismissal of the indictment with prejudice. Judge David Strongs order The Associated Press contributed to this report. 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 WJTV. While recent reports indicate that former radio and talk show host Wendy Williams is currently incapacitated, Charlamagne Tha God claims his former mentor seemed sharp as a tack as they caught up with one another over the holidays. I spoke to Wendy over the holidays. She wasseemed perfectly fine to me. Wendy sound like she can do radio tomorrow if she wanted to, he shared with co-hosts DJ Envy and Jess Hilarious on The Breakfast Club Tuesday(Jan. 7). She called me, and I dont know what incapacitated means in regards to dementia or whatever they said she was dealing with, but no, aint nothing incapacitated about Wendy Williams. When asked how was her energy during the call, Charlamagne replied, She sound like Wendy Williams! Im trying to tell you, she didnt skip a beat. He went on to say that Williams questioned why he didnt sound more excited to chat, and that she could hear his phone accidentally slip into recording mode. She then called him out on it before dismissing the idea that he would purposefully record their call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes perfectly normal, he insisted. Check out the clip below. Back in November 2024, legal documents obtained by People indicated that Williams was deemed cognitively impaired, permanently disabled, and legally incapacitated, per her court-appointed guardian, Sabrina E. Morrissey. Since, however, the media maven has been spotted out twice, both times appearing to be in lucid and aware of her surroundings. On Dec. 15, blogger Antoine Edwards shared a clip of Williams outside of a seafood restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where she was seen smiling in the backseat of a truck as restaurant employees greeted her with her signature How you doing? This was followed by Williams being spotted at her sons graduation on Dec. 19 More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo marked the 10th anniversary of the deadly Islamist attack on its offices on Tuesday by unveiling a special edition featuring a cartoon contest to lampoon God. The anniversary magazine went on sale widely on Tuesday when public commemorations by President Emmanuel Macron, predecessor Francois Hollande, and Anne Hidalgo, the Paris mayor, took place outside its former offices. The paper now works from a secret location and its reconstituted editorial team lives under constant police protection because of ongoing threats. The 2015 attack by two Paris-born brothers of Algerian descent was said to be revenge for the magazines decision to publish caricatures depicting the Prophet Mohammed, Islams most revered figure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The anniversary editions front page shows a cartoon celebrating the atheist papers existence with the caption Indestructible, while four inside pages contain the results of the caricature competition to mock God and religious leaders. Charlie Hebdos editors had called on cartoonists to submit their funniest and meanest depictions of God in a bid to show they had lost none of their provocative defiance. Yes, we can laugh about God, especially if he exists, said a headline over what the paper said were the best 40 out of more than 350 entries. Emmanuel Macron, the French president, and Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, attend a ceremony marking 10 years since an Islamist attack on the Charlie Hebdo satirical newspaper - LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP Amongst the sometimes crude and sexually explicit images, one referred to the Prophet Mohammed with the caption: If I sketch someone who is drawing someone who is drawing someone who is drawing Mohammed, is that OK? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It shows a cartoonist drawing a picture of another cartoonist who is working on a picture of a cartoonist drawing a bearded figure who looks like Mohammed whom many Muslims believe can never be depicted. Another cartoon appears to show the leaders of the three Abrahamic religions Christianity, Judaism and Islam as a three-headed dog. A third is of God on a psychoanalysts couch saying: I dont believe in myself anymore. An editorial from director Riss, who survived the January 7, 2015, massacre that left 12 people dead, including eight editorial staff, said: Satire has a virtue that has enabled us to get through these tragic years: optimism. If you want to laugh, it means you want to live. Laughing, irony, and caricatures are manifestations of optimism. Whatever happens, dramatic or happy, the desire to laugh will never cease. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to French ambassadors on Monday, Mr Macron said that terrorism is a risk that remains significant in our society and that requires no let-up and collective vigilance. A survey published in the anniversary edition of the magazine found that 76 per cent of respondents believed freedom of expression and the freedom to caricature were fundamental rights - TERESA SUAREZ/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK The massacre of some of Frances most famous cartoonists was the first in a series of bloody al-Qaeda and Islamic State plots that claimed hundreds of lives in France and Western Europe. Bruno Retailleau, Frances interior minister, told Le Parisien on Tuesday that the terror threat has never been so present, warning that other attacks could occur. The Charlie Hebdo killings fuelled a wave of Je Suis Charlie (I Am Charlie) solidarity with its lost cartoonists Cabu, Charb, Honore, Tignous and Wolinski among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also led to a backlash in some Muslim-majority countries against the magazines wilfully offensive humour seen as part of a long-standing French tradition of caricaturing. However, support for irreverence remains high in France, according to an Ifop survey published in this weeks edition. It found that 76 per cent of respondents believed freedom of expression and the freedom to caricature were fundamental rights, while 62 per cent thought people had the right to mock religious beliefs. Younger respondents appeared to have more reservations, however. 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. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Charlottes City Council is looking for better ways to hold the owners of run-down motels and apartments accountable. Officials with Charlottes Housing and Neighborhood Services appeared before a committee Monday afternoon. The meeting came about a month after the city ordered the closure of the Lamplighter Inn in northwest Charlotte. Back in November, residents told Queen City News that conditions were deplorable. PREVIOUS: Lamplighter Inn in northwest Charlotte officially closes Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Housing problems like this are why council members want to take another look at how city staff enforce building codes. Would you let your momma stay there? Would you let your child stay there? That would be the minimum standard code for me, cant put that through legal language, but that is the thought process I would like for us to consider, said at-large Councilmember LaWana Mayfield. During Mondays meeting, the Housing, Safety, and Community Committee heard from Housing and Neighborhood Services Director Rebecca Hefner. Hefners team laid out what powers they have to maintain adequate housing conditions in the Queen City. They include warnings, fines, required repairs, or even demolition. City employees acknowledged it can be difficult to force a landlord to comply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant always hold an owner or a particular actor in this situation accountable, but we do have a lot of tools available to us in the code, said Hefner. PREVIOUS: Lamplighter Inn residents working on next steps after housing location shuts down Hefner told committee members they could start ordering more repairs or demolitions carried out by city crews, with a lean placed on the property to cover the cost. Those actions would require full city council approval. Other ideas included one proposed by Councilmember Tiawana Brown. She pushed for more meetings where residents are invited to participate in discussions, Those are the people that were fighting for that we want to be able to live and have stable housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the coming weeks, city officials plan to present case studies on the Lamplighter Inn as well as Tanglewood Apartments, another complex that had to evict residents. The hope is the studies will provide more insight on how to better enforce housing standards. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6ANDERSON A Chesterfield man has been charged with child molesting and child solicitation. Jonathan David Nugent, 34, was arrested by police Friday on charges of child molesting, child solicitation, intimidation, performing sexual conduct in the presence of a minor and domestic battery. According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Cody Painter, assistant chief of the Chesterfield Police Department, the incidents took place in April 2024 and involved a nine-year-old child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a Kids Talk forensic interview, the child said Nugent exposed himself, struck the child and threatened to hit him harder if he told anyone. The child also indicated that Nugent touched his private areas with his genitals. During an interview with police, Nugent said he was aware of why he was being questioned. Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 765-640-4863. The Chicago Transit Authority 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. CHICAGO For one Chicago man, Jan. 6 is a legal battle that has become his own personal fight. Larry Ligas is a man of conviction but also contradiction. You cant trust politicians, he told WGN News in a sit-down interview. If a politician says theyre going to help you, dont worry, youve got to worry. SEE ALSO: Trump considers pardons for Capitol attack On Jan. 6th, 2021, Ligas who says hes a lifelong Democrat, traveled to DC and wearing a red MAGA cap was photographed by security cameras and his own cellphone during the insurrection at the Capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im probably the only registered Democrat that was there, Ligas said, adding that he lost faith in the party over violent crime and illegal immigration at the southern border. Disillusioned, the longtime community activist found his way to Donald Trump. I believe our country needed change, Ligas said. I thought Donald Trump was the person. By the end of the year, Ligas, founder of the Logan Square Concerned Citizens group, was among the 50 or so Illinois residents arrested for their roles in the riot. I was not going to miss that day, Ligas said. No one needed to ask me to go or suggest me to go. I went on my own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government charged Ligas with four misdemeanor counts of entering a restricted building, disorderly conduct in a restricted building, disorderly conduct, and parading in a Capitol building. Im not tip-toeing around that. Jan. 6th was a riot. It was an awful day for America, Ligas said. I know I am not guilty and the reason why I fought this to clear my name is I was there with zero intent of doing any malicious behavior. Ligas said he wasnt there to stop the Biden certification but instead had questions about the Stop the Steal movement and wanted to talk to a member of Congress about a ballot audit in the swing states. I wanted to talk to somebody, peacefully, civilly, he said. I was in the rotunda and thats as far as I went. And in your mind, it was okay to be there? All the indications are is that I was allowed to be there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ligas, who worked on Republican governor candidate Darren Baileys campaign, has several theories about what he calls Department of Justice abuses connected to the Biden presidency and feels he was targeted for his work in Chicago election reform. Unregistered voters trying to vote, underage voters, gang members trying to intimidate election judges, he said. The country needed somebody like me that has the experience, and I stood up, I did what was right. According to the Chicago Board of Elections, the only known problems in Ligas ward were related to equipment issues and judge no-shows. After refusing to plead guilty to the original Jan. 6 case, Ligas charges were upgraded to felony obstruction. With Trump on his way back to the White House comes the campaign promise to pardon all January 6ers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He needs to look at my case because the word pardon, I look at it as a badge of shame because pardon means that I have been ready felt found guilty and I have not been found guilty. And I believe in the court system, Ligas said, adding that he prefers the case to be dismissed. As for the other Jan. 6 defendants, Ligas does not think all are entitled to a pardon. The violent participants, he says, should face justice. If I end up going to trial in spring, the facts, the truth will prevail, Ligas says, that my charges were political sabotage. Ligas has a status conference next week on his superseding indictment in Washington. After that, there will be a bench trial later this spring. 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. CHICAGO A 17-year-old boy is facing attempted murder charges after he allegedly fired shots at Chicago police officers. Chicago police said the teen fired shots at officers Sunday night in the 8200 block of South Coles Avenue in South Chicago. Just after 8:45 p.m. Sunday, the teen was taken into custody in the 8200 block of S. South Shore Drive. Waukegan man, 16-year-old boy charged after shooting, extensive police chase in Lake County; driver at large Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A firearm was also recovered at the scene, according to investigators. The teen, meanwhile, has been charged with attempted murder of Chicago police officers. No other information was 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 WGN-TV. By Laurie Chen BEIJING (Reuters) - A Chinese director who made a film about the 2022 "white paper" demonstrations against China's COVID restrictions was sentenced to three and a half years in prison by a Shanghai court this week, his former lawyer said. In the protests, people held up blank, white sheets of paper as a symbol of defiance against government efforts to censor criticism of the zero-COVID policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nationwide protests were the largest since the 1989 Tiananmen Square demonstrations and unprecedented since President Xi Jinping came to power in 2012. A judge sentenced Chen Pinlin, 33, to jail for "picking quarrels and provoking trouble" in a closed-door trial on Monday, Daniel Fang, who handled Chen's case before leaving China last year, told Reuters. He cited people familiar with the case. Chen, who had pleaded guilty, plans to appeal against the sentence, Fang cited the people as saying. The Shanghai Baoshan District People's Court did not respond to a request seeking comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Picking quarrels and provoking trouble" is a charge commonly used by the Chinese government against dissidents and human rights activists. It carries a maximum prison term of five years. "Documentary filmmaker Chen Pinlin was only serving the public interest by documenting an historic episode of protest against censorship," said Aleksandra Bielakowska, advocacy managers at Reporters Without Borders (RSF). "We call on the international community to increase pressure on the regime to secure the release of Chen Pinlin, along with the 123 other journalists and press freedom defenders currently detained in the country." FILM Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chen's 77-minute film, titled "Urumqi Road", was uploaded to YouTube in late 2023 under his pseudonym "Plato". It consists of footage filmed by Chen in Shanghai as well as video clips posted by internet users which were quickly scrubbed from Chinese social media. He was detained by Shanghai police in late November 2023 and formally arrested in January last year, according to Amnesty International. While the protests were quickly suppressed by police, they helped hasten the end of three years of some of the world's strictest pandemic curbs. Throughout the pandemic China had said its strict COVID measures were necessary to save lives and ensure people's health, before abruptly ending them in late 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protests were mostly focused on the COVID restrictions, but some protesters in Beijing also demanded freedom of speech and democracy. Those who took part in the white paper protests say that following China's re-opening from COVID, the Chinese government has continued to suppress public efforts to mourn pandemic victims and to commemorate the demonstrations. At the time, police interrogated and briefly detained dozens of participants, while a handful of women were detained for four months in Beijing, according to rights' groups, protesters and friends of those affected. Chen's film continues to be screened outside China by rights activists and Chinese communities. (Reporting by Laurie Chen; Editing by Neil Fullick) Last month, the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army staged a surprise war game the third of 2024 and the largest ever simulating an invasion of Taiwan. For months now, US and allied military officials have been warning anyone who will listen that China is increasingly likely to attempt the real thing an actual invasion by 2027. The latest PLA exercise just underscores that these officials arent kidding. It seems war is coming unless Taiwan and its allies can deter China. The war game played out in the air and on and presumably under the sea. Taiwanese forces detected 134 Chinese warplanes around Taiwan. Sixty-one of those planes entered Taiwans Air Defense Identification Zone, which extends hundreds of miles from the Taiwanese coast. Chinese planes in this zone are close enough to attack Taiwan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The simulated aerial onslaught continued. One Chinese military drone flew all the way around Taiwan, demonstrating Chinas ability to surveil the entire country. As many as a hundred Chinese ships PLA Navy warships, mostly, but apparently also including coast guard vessels and auxiliaries surged into the western Pacific. Thirty-nine Chinese warships massed in the waters around Taiwan. Thats nearly twice as many major warships as exist in the entire Taiwanese fleet. The assembled Chinese forces rehearsed for combat. Chinese aircraft simulated attacks on foreign naval ships, practiced driving away military and civilian aircraft and intercepting commercial vessels during a blockade exercise, and rehearsed disrupting sea routes, AFP reported. The timing was interesting. The real objective appears to be asserting control within the first island chain, running between Japan and The Philippines, and establishing strategic deterrence ahead of the US presidential transition in January, a Taiwanese official told AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exercise will have honed the PLAs ability to mobilise quickly for an invasion and attack with maximum surprise. The faster Beijings forces can strike, the harder it will be for US and other allied forces to intervene before Chinese boots hit Taiwanese sand. The latest edition of the US Defense Departments annual report on the Chinese military is clear about the severity of the threat. Although Beijing reaffirms that peaceful reunification is its preferred course of action, the [Peoples Republic of China] has never renounced the use of force and continues to signal its willingness to use military force against Taiwan, the report concludes. The PLA has a range of options to coerce Taipei based on its increasing capabilities in multiple domains. A forced landing on Taiwan is the riskiest contingency for China. A large-scale amphibious invasion would be one of the most complicated and difficult military operations for the PLA, requiring air and maritime superiority, the rapid buildup and sustainment of supplies onshore, and uninterrupted support, according to the Pentagon report. It would likely strain the PRCs armed forces and invite a strong international response. There are options short of a full-scale invasion that would be less risky for China but still give the Chinese Communist Party what it wants: control of Taiwan. An escalating blockade could strangle the island democracy and force its capitulation. A blockade combined with targeted bombardment could hasten Taipeis collapse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The December war game honed the PLAs ability to carry out any of these operations. That doesnt mean Taiwans defeat is inevitable. It does mean the risk of catastrophic war, and dire global outcomes, is growing. Taiwan and its allies arent powerless to push back, of course. Taiwanese forces responded to the December war game by sortieing warships and warplanes, switching on air-defense batteries and standing up an emergency headquarters to coordinate surveillance of Chinese activities and, in the event the war game turned into an actual war, direct the defence of Taiwans air space, waters and beaches. But its increasingly apparent that only allied intervention could save Taiwan from an all-out attack. Whether that intervention is fast enough, powerful enough and happens at all could hinge on the mood and secret motives of a handful of people in Washington, D.C. One is US President-elect Donald Trump. Another is his major donor and most powerful advisor, impulsive tech billionaire Elon Musk, who recently endorsed the far-right AfD political party in Germany. Does Trump care whether Taiwan stands or falls? Does Musk? No one knows for sure. But the Chinese Communist Party isnt taking any chances. According to one Taiwanese official who spoke to AFP, the Chinese manoeuvres this month were aimed at demonstrating that Beijing could choke off Taiwan and also to draw a red line ahead of the next US administration. 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. BEIJING (Reuters) - China called the United States "extremely irresponsible" for "groundlessly suspecting" there are information security risks in China's drone systems, its commerce ministry said on Tuesday. China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the U.S. investigating its drone systems and said it will closely monitor the situation. China also urged the U.S. to respect facts and immediately stop what it called "erroneous practices". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Commerce Department said on Thursday it was considering new rules that would impose restrictions on Chinese drones to restrict or ban them in the United States, citing national security concerns. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Beijing newsroom, editing by Ed Osmond) Resource-rich Namibia starts the year with the prospect of multibillion-dollar investments in nuclear power, minerals processing and housing for its police force, in a series of deals unveiled during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit. Wang, who is on a four-nation tour of Africa, told outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday that China was willing to help Namibia transform its resource advantages into developmental and societal benefits. "Namibia has unique resource endowments and huge development potential," Wang said, during a meeting at the southern African nation's coastal resort town of Swakopmund. 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. Mbumba said Namibia, which is rich in uranium and critical minerals, was seeking investments from China in nuclear, wind, and solar power, to boost its standing in the global rush towards a green energy transition. "We want to add value to our uranium for the peaceful development of nuclear energy and other energy sources," he said. Namibia is the world's third largest producer of uranium and two of its most productive mines for the radioactive element are majority-owned by Chinese companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the country's uranium and other radioactive chemicals are exported to China but in recent years Namibia has been calling for its critical raw materials to be processed domestically, adding value before they leave. In 2023, Namibia followed similar steps taken by Zimbabwe and Tanzania and banned the export of unprocessed lithium and other critical elements. Sunny and windy Namibia is also rich in graphite, copper and rare earth elements - all in high demand for the green energy transition - giving the country huge green processing and manufacturing potential. Mbumba said Chinese investment - mainly in Rossing Uranium and Swakop Uranium - "continues to play a significant role in developing Namibia's uranium sector as one of the biggest global uranium producers". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Beijing's embassy in Namibia, China's US$5.1 billion investment in Swakop Uranium - a shareholding partnership between the two countries - makes it the largest single Chinese investment in Africa. Mbumba said China had responded favourably to some of his government's requests, including the building of 1,500 houses in the capital Windhoek and in other towns "to provide dignified living conditions for our police forces". China was also contributing to drought assistance, with a ship carrying food donations expected to arrive in Namibia before the end of January, Mbumba said. He added that the Chinese relief plan included drilling 14 industrial boreholes this year. Mbumba also announced approval for a joint venture between state-owned Namibia Water Corporation and China General Nuclear Power Group, to build a N$3 billion (US$161.5 million) desalination plant that is projected to produce 20 million tonnes of fresh water each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wang also said that China was willing to strengthen party-to-party exchanges of "experience in state governance" with the South West Africa People's Organisation (Swapo), which has been in power since Namibia became independent in 1991. Swapo is one of six independence movements in southern Africa that China supported with ideological and military training. Also on Monday, Wang met president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Windhoek, extending China's congratulations on her election in December as the first woman to lead the country. Ndaitwah said Namibia was looking forward to strengthening ties with China in trade, agriculture, infrastructure and energy resources to bring benefits to its people. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets Namibian president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in the capital Windhoek on Monday. Photo: Xinhua alt=Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets Namibian president-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in the capital Windhoek on Monday. Photo: Xinhua> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wang's week-long trip to Africa will also take him to the Republic of the Congo, Chad and Nigeria. It is part of a New Year's diplomatic tradition for Chinese foreign ministers, who for 35 years have made Africa their first overseas stop of the year. This year's visit takes place amid a growing geopolitical rivalry in Africa between China and the West. "China will always be the most trustworthy friend of African brothers and sisters," Wang said in Namibia. China overtook the United States as Africa's largest trading partner in 2009. Total two-way trade with Africa reached US$282 billion in 2023 a marginal 1.5 per cent increase on the previous year. Carlos Lopes, a professor at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town, said Wang's visit had added significance this year, in light of China's changing relationship with Africa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lopes pointed to the changes announced in September by President Xi Jinping, who proposed a 10-point plan at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to help the continent's modernisation. According to Lopes, the shift in focus towards industrialisation reflects a recalibration of China-Africa relations, emphasising sustainable development, value addition, and mutual economic transformation. "Each country on this tour brings a unique context that aligns with China's evolving priorities," he said, adding that Namibia - with its incoming new leadership - presented a pivotal moment for engagement. "Beijing may seek to establish a strong rapport with the new administration, focusing on areas like industrial development, green energy, and infrastructure to foster long-term stability and growth." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. BANGKOK (Reuters) -A Chinese actor who went missing last week near the Thai-Myanmar border has been found in Myanmar and may have been the victim of human trafficking, Thai authorities said on Tuesday. Wang Xing, 22, was reported missing in northern Thailand's Tak province bordering Myanmar, an area known for large-scale criminal enterprises and human trafficking by organised gangs. "From initial inquiry, we believe he was a victim of human trafficking," police Inspector General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was told there was a casting in Thailand, but instead was trained to scam other Chinese people, Thatchai said, adding he was not assaulted or abused. Wang has now been returned to Thailand. The case was widely shared on Chinese social media raising concerns that it could dent Thailand's hospitality and tourism industry, a key driver of Southeast Asia's second-largest economy and for which China is the main source market. "We have to manage this well so it does not impact Thai tourism," Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said. Last year, Thailand welcomed 35.55 million foreign arrivals with 6.74 million from China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's foreign ministry said it was in touch with its embassies overseas and would "continue to follow up on the progress of the incident". Southeast Asia, especially border towns in Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, has become a hub for telecom and other online fraud, according to the United Nations, which says hundreds of thousands of people have been trafficked to work in scam centres. Most of the trafficking victims were from Southeast Asian countries as well as China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, but others came from as far away as Africa and Latin America, according to the U.N. (Reporting by Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng, Additional reporting Colleen Howe in Beijing; Editing by Saad Sayeed and Sharon Singleton) (Bloomberg) -- A Chinese actor who went missing near Thailands border with Myanmar has been found, Thai authorities said, as they sought to contain the fallout of the incident on the nations vital tourism industry. Most Read from Bloomberg Wang Xing, also known as Xingxing by his screen name, was found by Myanmar authorities on Monday and was handed over to Thai authorities Tuesday. Wang disappeared on Friday from Mae Sot, a Thai town bordering Myanmar, after he arrived in the country for what he believed to be a television shoot, according to Chinese media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports of Wangs disappearance sparked widespread discussion on Chinese social media platforms with some users speculating he may have been kidnapped to work in a scam center in Myanmar. Wangs girlfriend claimed in a post that the actor had boarded a vehicle from Bangkok before losing contact in the border town. Thai police are investigating if Wang was a victim of human trafficking, and initial probe showed he traveled voluntarily to the Thai-Myanmar border, officials said at a briefing. There were no involvement of any Thai nationals and Wang was probably a victim of a scam by Chinese nationals, Police General Tatchai Pitaneelaboot said. Thai officials are wary of the impact of the episode on Chinese travelers, who make up the largest group of visitors to the tourism-reliant nation. Chinese tourist arrivals are yet to return to the pre-Covid levels though other markets have beaten the 2019 levels. The impact on tourism, if any, will not last long, Thailands Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong said, adding that the Thai government will work to rebuild confidence among tourists. The minister has sought the Chinese ambassadors help to dispel the perception that Thailand was unsafe for Chinese tourists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will handle this issue with care to minimize the impact on tourism, Thailands Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said. There have been many rumors that got blown up on social media about Thailand being unsafe. A 2023 blockbuster Chinese movie No More Bets depicted two Chinese characters being trapped in a scam center after being lured on the pretext of high-paying jobs, sparking concerns among tourists about safety in Southeast Asia. READ: A Criminal Paradise Is Growing in the Heart of Southeast Asia Across Southeast Asia, the billion-dollar cyber scam operations have been expanding, particularly in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, according to a recent report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. Many working in the scam operations in the region are also themselves victims of human trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Myanmar gripped by a civil war after a coup in 2021, cyber crime syndicates have been flourishing. Often run by Chinese fugitives who fled their home nation in 2020 following a domestic crackdown, they have taken cover in areas of Myanmar where the military regime is losing control over territories to rebels. Earlier this week, state broadcaster China Central Television reported that Myanmar transferred 41,000 suspects involved in telecommunication scams to China last year, as Beijing continues to crack down on an illegal industry that has siphoned billions of dollars from unsuspecting victims. --With assistance from Pathom Sangwongwanich. (Updates with actor being handed over to Thai authorities in second paragraph, police comments in fourth.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. BELMONT, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A manufacturing company could bring nearly 350 new jobs and $35 million to Belmont. The city is a finalist to land a finalist to land a Chinese companys facility. Monday night City Council unanimously approved matching Gaston Countys Level 3 Incentive Grant (out of four), worth a total of $1.5 million; the state also is offering incentives. Gaston County woman wins $100,000 lottery jackpot prize Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donny Hicks, director of the Gaston County Economic Development Commission, told City Council that Belmont is one of approximately six cities attempting to land the company. He said there are two or three more in North Carolina and two in South Carolina, plus others in Alabama and Texas. Hicks said the anonymous company was supposed to decide on their location last month but has yet to do so. Proposals like this dont reveal the companys name to keep their confidentiality. Both for people who work and for competitors, he explained. They dont want someone to know what theyre planning to do, especially foreign companies The Belmont location would be in a 470,000-square-foot warehouse site off Hickory Grove Road just north of Interstate 85. He said its not a distribution center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The average salary would be in the $51,000 range. City Manager Miles Braswell said the grant was established by the city for the assistance of historic mills and redevelopment and adaptive reuse. Gaston County approved its portion of the grant on Dec. 10. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Chinese fast fashion giant Shein left MPs horrified after failing to answer questions over whether forced labour exists in its supply chain. In a heated hearing before the business and trade committee, MPs said they had almost zero confidence in the integrity of Sheins supply chains, as they accused the company of wilful ignorance by refusing to say whether it sources cotton from China. The criticism will deal a blow to the retailers hopes of a 50bn listing on the London Stock Exchange, in what has been touted as one of the biggest deals of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liam Byrne, chairman of the committee, criticised Shein after a disrespectful appearance by Yinan Zhu, its general counsel for Europe, Middle East and Africa. He said: For a company that sells 1bn [worth of products] to UK consumers and is seeking to float on the London Stock Exchange, the committee has been pretty horrified by the lack of evidence you have provided today. Youve given us almost zero confidence in the integrity of your supply chains. You cant even tell us what your products are made from, you cant tell us much about the conditions which workers have to work in, and the reluctance to answer basic questions has frankly bordered on contempt of the committee. The appearance by Yinan Zhu, Sheins general counsel for Europe, Middle East and Africa, before the business and trade committee was branded disrespectful - House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA Charlie Maynard, a Liberal Democrat MP, also weighed into the debate after Ms Zhu refused to say whether the company sources its cotton from China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: Frankly, I dont feel youre respecting the committee at all. You say to our chair that you cant state whether Shein is selling any products in China which are made of cotton. I find that completely ridiculous. I find it very unhelpful and disrespectful that youre here doing this. Its wilful ignorance. He asked: Do you think youre being disrespectful by being so blatantly void of answers? We have asked you some very, very simple questions, and you are not giving us straight answers. And that, I find, dismisses the point of why were here today. Do you understand how simple the questions were asking you are? Do any of your products have cotton from China? That is not difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Zhu responded by claiming she was answering their questions as best she could. Alleged abuses in companys supply chains It also emerged during the hearing that lawyers acting for Stop Uyghur Genocide (SUG) last week provided Ms Zhu with a dossier of evidence alleging abuses in the companys supply chain. This follows widespread concern about its cotton supply and whether it comes from Xinjiang, where there is alleged forced labour of Uyghur Muslims. Inside the factory of a Shein supplier in Guangzhou, China. The company has drawn criticism for the allegedly poor working conditions in its factories - Jade Gao/AFP When asked about the report, Ms Zhu said the company, which is known for its ultra-low prices, complies with the laws and regulations in the companies it operates in. Eleanor Lyons, the UK Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, later told the committee that she has already raised concerns about Shein to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) about its potential listing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said: I dont think theyre being transparent about what is going on in their supply chains. The hearing marked MPs first opportunity to publicly grill the company as it prepares for its prospective float in London. It had previously considered listing in New York but cooled on plans after a backlash from US politicians. Shein has surged in popularity in recent years, with its UK sales topping 1.55bn for the first time last year. This led to it overtaking rival Boohoo. 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. HONG KONG (AP) The U.S. Defense Department has added dozens of Chinese companies, including games and technology company Tencent, artificial intelligence firm SenseTime and the worlds biggest battery maker CATL, to a list of companies it says have ties to Chinas military, prompting some to protest and say they will seek to have the decision reversed. In recent years, Washington has sought to restrict sharing of advanced technology, including semiconductors and AI, deeming it to be a threat to national security. The U.S. Defense Department updates its list of Chinese Military Companies, or CMC list, annually. With the latest revision, it includes 134 companies. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2024 bans the Defense Department from dealing with the designated companies beginning in June 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tencent's Hong Kong-traded shares fell 7.3% on Tuesday and the company said it would initiate a reconsideration process to correct this mistake, seek talks with the U.S. Defense Department and if need be take legal measures to get it removed from the list. Tencent is the world's largest video gaming company and operates Chinese messaging platform WeChat. As the company is neither a Chinese military company nor a military-civil fusion contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base, it believes that its inclusion in the CMC List is a mistake, Tencent said in an announcement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Unlike other lists maintained by the U.S. Government for sanctions or export control measures, inclusion in the CMC List relates only to U.S. defense procurement, which does not affect the business of the Group, it said. Battery maker CATL said in a statement posted on its website that the company has never engaged in any military-related business or activities," and said that the designation wouldn't have adverse impact on its operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Tencent, CATL maintains that its inclusion to the list was a mistake and that it would proactively engage with the Pentagon to address the false designation and take legal action if necessary to protect company and stakeholder interest. CATL's stock fell 2.84% in Shenzhen. AI company SenseTime said in a statement that the decision to include it on the list had no factual basis. We firmly disagree with it, SenseTimes statement said, adding that the decision has no material impact on our global operations. SenseTime remains firmly committed to working collaboratively with the relevant stakeholders to address this matter, and to safeguarding the interests of the company and our shareholders, the company said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a daily news briefing, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged the U.S. to immediately correct its wrong practices, and lift the illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction on Chinese companies. China consistently and firmly opposes the U.S. overstretching the concept of national security, creating discriminatory lists under various pretexts, and unwarrantedly suppressing Chinese companies, hindering Chinas high-quality development, Guo said. CHIPPEWA FALLS Schools across Chippewa County will be receiving overdose aid kits equipped with life-saving resources, such as CPR breathing barriers, step-by-step instructions for Narcan administration, DisposeRx packets for safe disposal of unused medications, fentanyl test strips to detect the presence of the potent opioid in other drugs, and informational resources on substance use support. The Chippewa County Department of Public Health announced Monday that 32 overdose aid kits will be placed in all public schools in the county. The agency is partnering with the Clinton Foundation to pay for the kits. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and well-being of students, staff, and community members by equipping schools with life-saving resources, a press release states. The safety and well-being of our community is our top priority, said Chippewa County Public Health Director Brittnay Fortuna. By installing overdose aid kits, we are taking proactive steps to save lives and raise awareness. These kits not only serve as a critical tool in emergencies but also as an opportunity to educate students, staff, and families about prevention and harm reduction. Together, we can create safer environments and empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to make healthier choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overdose Aid Kits are metal boxes that contain Narcan, an FDA-approved opioid overdose-reversal medication. Kids exposed to fentanyl arent always at fault, wrote State Sen. Jesse James, R-Altoona. Taking proactive measures, like providing Narcan and offering educational resources, creates a win-win for our schools, communities, and families. This announcement comes as the Public Health Department is expected to also place a kiosk in the Chippewa County Jail lobby this month that will distribute not only Narcan-testing strips, but other items from condoms to feminine hygiene products, at no cost to users. The Clinton Foundation has been instrumental in expanding access to overdose aid kits across Wisconsin and the United States. Jessica Geschke, senior project manager with the Clinton Foundation, shared, Were honored to partner with community organizations throughout Wisconsin to provide lifesaving training and harm reduction supplies to those in need. The installation of overdose aid kits in Chippewa County public schools is a vital step in addressing the opioid crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chippewa County Department of Public Health encourages community members to take action to save lives. If anyone is interested in having an overdose aid kit installed at their location, contact Jessica Geschke at 920-382-6834 or jgeschke@clintonfoundation.org. Individuals and organizations can request to be trained in Narcan administration to learn how to effectively recognize and reverse opioid overdoses. Visit the Chippewa County Department of Public Healths Harm Reduction webpage or stop by the Health Department located at 711 N. Bridge St., Room 121, Chippewa Falls for more information. Training and harm reduction supplies are available Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. HONOLULU (KHON2) The freedom to choose how to give birth is a fundamental right for many families; and for three women from Hawaii Sara Kahele, Melissa Danielle and Tina Mau this right is central to their birth experiences and advocacy for future generations. These women have had different journeys in their childbirth decisions; but they all share a passion for ensuring that women can make informed choices about their births whether that means birthing at home, at a hospital or with the assistance of midwives. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You KHON2.com explores the personal experiences and motivations behind their decisions, the challenges theyve faced and why they are committed to the fight for reproductive rights and the freedom of choice. Sara Kaheles journey to homebirth Sara Kahele, from Hawaii Island, began her motherhood journey at a young age. She was only 16 when she had her first child and had little knowledge about childbirth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was a baby having a baby, basically, she reflected. I was just told to go to the hospital and do whatever the doctor told me to do. Her first birth involved a long induction with many interventions; but in the end, it resulted in a healthy baby, which was, of course, her main concern. Despite the challenges, she took the experience as a learning opportunity. However, it was after her second birth, just two years later, that Kahele started to realize that she had more options. By the third baby, I actually went and got educated and took a childbirth class and realized that I had way more options than people were telling me, she said. This realization opened up a whole new world for her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She began to explore alternatives, such as working with midwives. When Sara was pregnant with her fourth child, her birth plan took a drastic turn when her healthcare provider suggested scheduling a cesarean because they thought her baby was going to be too big. Kahele had other plans. I ended up giving birth in my driveway because my labor was only two hours and she was 10 pounds and two ounces, she recalled. Kaheles subsequent pregnancies were even more empowering as she continued to have quick and beautiful births which she described as a completely different experience from her first two. I could have a different type of birth that felt like I was giving birth, not that birth was happening to me, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the most beautiful aspects of her homebirths was how her older children were able to be present and witness the birth of their siblings. Theyve been around birth all their lives, attending the birth of their siblings, Kahele shared. This experience has deeply influenced Kaheles advocacy for others to have the freedom to choose their birth experiences. We are done having kids, she said. But the fight is for our children to be able to have that choice. Kahele emphasized that its crucial for her children to understand that birth is normal and safe and that they should have the ability to choose the birth experience they feel is best for them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have all expressed that they would like to birth at home, she added. Theyve grown up around the fact that birth is normal and that birth is safe. Melissa Danielles path to homebirth Melissa Danielle, from Oahu, had a different journey but also recognized early on that she wanted to give birth at home. I knew in my 20s that I was going to have a homebirth, she said, even though she did not conceive until much later. I just knew that it wasnt going to be in a hospital. For Danielle, the desire to birth outside of a hospital setting was always present, even when she didnt fully understand what it entailed. Back then, I had no idea what any of that entailed, she reflected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danielles path to homebirth deepened when she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that made it harder for her to conceive. The health care system flags women over 35 as being, you know, high risk or unable to conceive, she explained. This diagnosis, coupled with the realization that the medical system often does not prioritize a womans right to make informed decisions, motivated her to take extra steps to ensure that she could safely birth at home. I knew that I would have to do more because of my health care situation to have the birth that I wanted, Danielle said. I had to take extra steps to really educate myself and take care of my body and my health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more Danielle learned about birth, the more she realized that women have the right to choose where and how they give birth. Once you educate yourself about birth, you realize that you have options, she shared. The option to birth at home can be safe; it can be affirming as long as you know what you need to do to have the birth that will give you that outcome. Tina Maus experience and advocacy for choice Tina Mau, who is from Lahaina, had a significantly different first birth experience compared to Kahele and Danielle. At just 17 years of age, Mau gave birth in a hospital and felt uninformed and unprepared. I didnt know anything, she said. Mau, like many women, was raised to believe in the medical systems authority over birth. I was raised in a family of fear when it came to birthing. My family was very, like, trust your doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But this belief was challenged during her second pregnancy, which coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. During COVID, I just realized a lot of things didnt line up with me, she recalled. I had to look for other routes. This is when Mau began to explore midwifery and homebirth. Her friends and family who had experienced homebirths provided her with support and education. I had friends and families who are around me who did have homebirth, she said. They were able to educate me and just kind of push me and support me in knowing myself and my worth in my own body. This guidance empowered Mau, who had once been afraid of childbirth, to embrace the idea of birthing at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pandemic also highlighted the inadequacies of the medical system in Hawaii. Mau shared a distressing experience with us. After the fire, we didnt have ambulances, even after the fire. They said they could not get us an ambulance It would be about a 2- to 3-hour wait. She underscored the lack of resources in remote areas like Lahaina, which makes the freedom to choose homebirth even more vital. Mau emphasized the importance of supporting a mothers choice, whether that means giving birth in a hospital or at home. Theres a lot of division when we should be working together, she pointed out. Theyre both so important. Where the mother chooses, the birth is so important, where she is comfortable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mau also highlighted the importance of having a partner and support system that encourages trust in ones own body, something she found through her own journey. For Mau, the choice of where to give birth isnt just about preference. Its about feeling safe and supported in ones decision. She believes that midwives, especially in remote areas, should be seen as essential healthcare providers, especially when hospitals may be too far away or lacking in resources. I just wish that it was I wish we could all work together for the people, for the mother, she concluded. The importance of respecting indigenous traditions and practices Respecting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultural practices is essential when it comes to midwifery choices, especially for future generations. Kahele explained that she wants her children to have the choices they need when it comes to childbirth and respecting their cultural traditions. She has five daughters and one son, all of whom grew up understanding that birth is normal and that birth is safe. Now, she is focused on ensuring that her children, especially her daughters, can also have that choice. Kahele emphasized the importance of feeling safest when choosing where and with whom to give birth. She explained that the most important factor for her was having people that not only believed in me, but that I could trust with my life. In her case, she chose a traditional midwife, but Kahele noted that there are tons of different types of midwives and that each persons choice should be respected. She expressed that the focus now is on her daughters, saying, The fight is for our daughters, to be able to have that same choice. Her daughters have expressed interest in giving birth at home like their mother did. Kahele also shared stories about her husband Davids family. His grandmother was actually the midwife for their village, she explained. For them, this was normal life, where midwifery care was an everyday part of the community. While the husbands were out fishing, the midwives took care of deliveries along with pre- and post-natal care. Kahele concluded with a powerful message: birth is normal, and everyone should have the choice to give birth in a way that feels safest and most comfortable for them. The Importance of Choice For Kahele, Danielle and Mau, the ability to choose where and how to give birth is not just a personal decision, but one that affects the entire family. They all emphasize that birth is not an emergency unless complications arise and that it is vital for women to have the power to make their own decisions regarding their bodies and their births. As Kahele said, The most important thing was having people there that not only believed in me, but that I could trust with my life. For her, and many others, that means choosing a traditional midwife for her homebirths. Similarly, Mau echoed the sentiment that women must have the autonomy to make their birth choices. Trust yourself, she urged. What do you feel like? And for Danielle, the more education a woman has about birth, the more empowered she becomes to make decisions that are best for her and her family. Birth is our responsibility, she sayid. These powerful voices from Hawaii stand strong in their belief that every woman should have the right to choose her birth experience, regardless of where she lives or her background. Their stories highlight the importance of trust, education and empowerment in the birthing process. You can click here to watch the full interview. You can click here to find a midwife in your area. Click here to learn more about the womens fight for reproductive choices. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 The reality of birthing freedom is not just about personal choice; it is about ensuring that future generations have the same rights and opportunities to birth in a way that feels safe, affirming and empowering. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. After months of secret unsuccessful negotiations, Mason-based uniform provider Cintas on Tuesday launched a $5.3 billion hostile takeover bid for UniFirst, a Massachusetts rival. Cintas revealed it first broached the subject of acquiring the company in 2022 before it was turned down. In November, the Fortune 500 company attempted the discussion again, but was rebuffed by the UniFirst leadership. Now the company is directly soliciting UniFirst shareholders. Both companies rent uniforms to employers and offer other equipment and services for professional workplaces, but Cintas, which raked in $9.6 billion in annual revenues last year, does more than three times the business of UniFirst, which had $2.4 billion in sales last year. Also, Cintas employs 46,500 workers, while UniFirst employs 16,000 workers. After the board said 'no,' Cintas took the latest step While we would have preferred to have discussions with UniFirst in private, this is the second time in nearly three years that UniFirst has refused our constructive attempts to engage on an extremely compelling offer, said Cintas CEO Todd Schneider, in a statement. We firmly believe in the compelling strategic fit between our two companies. Advertisement Advertisement Cintas is offering to buy UniFirst for $275 for each share of stock in an all-cash deal. Schneider urged UniFirsts board of directors, executives and major shareholders to come to the bargaining table. 'Not in the best interests' UniFirst leaders rejected the deal In a Nov. 27 email, UniFirst chairman Raymond Zemlin and CEO Steven Sintros told Schneider the board had voted against Cintas offer, deeming it not in the best interests of the company or its shareholders. Unfirst shares briefly jumped more than 40% on Tuesday after Cintas announced its plans. But the company reiterated its resolve against the deal. The board conducted a careful review of the unsolicited proposal and determined that it is not in the best interests of UniFirst, its shareholders and other stakeholders, UniFirst said Tuesday in a statement, adding the decision was made based on the offer price, business risks and feedback from its largest shareholders. Advertisement Advertisement The company added the board and management remain confident in the companys strategy without being acquired. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cintas announced a $5.3B hostile takeover bid for UniFirst The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said Monday that there is no indication other federal agencies were impacted by the recent breach at the Treasury Department. The Treasury Department revealed last week that Chinese state-sponsored actors had hacked into the agencys workstations in early December and accessed unclassified documents. The hackers obtained a key from a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, which they used to override security and gain access to Treasury workstations, the agency said in a letter to lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CISA said in a statement Monday that it is working closely with both the Treasury and BeyondTrust to understand and mitigate the impacts of the breach. The security of federal systems and the data they protect is of critical importance to our national security, the federal cyber watchdog added. We are working aggressively to safeguard against any further impacts and will provide updates, as appropriate. The Treasury Department has promised to provide an update to lawmakers in 30 days as required by law. However, the incoming chairs of the Senate Banking Committee and House Financial Services Committee, both of which oversee the agency, asked Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Tuesday for a briefing on the incident by Jan. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This breach of federal government information is extremely concerning. As you know, Treasury maintains some of the most highly sensitive information on U.S. persons throughout government, including tax information, business beneficial ownership, and suspicious activity reports, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) wrote. This information must be vigilantly protected from theft or surveillance by our foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), who seek to harm the United States, they 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. The Osage Nation has asked a federal judge to vacate a 16-year-old decision that the tribes reservation had been disestablished, citing the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the McGirt v. Oklahoma case. The Osage Nation filed its request Thursday in federal court in the Northern District of Oklahoma, based in Tulsa. It seeks relief from the courts 2009 decision in the Osage Nation v. Irby ruling, in which the court said the tribal reservation, created in 1872, had been abolished when Oklahoma became a state in 1907, even though Congress never formally dissolved the reservation. The Osage Nation has never accepted the validity of that ruling. Most fundamentally, Irby is a stain on the integrity of the United States, which 150 years ago induced the Nation to cede its prior sovereign territory with a promise of a permanent Reservation where the Nation could exercise its sovereignty and govern itself, and it creates an anomalous exception to the consistent application of the rule of law (as set forth in McGirt), attorneys for the Osage Nation wrote in a 61-page memorandum submitted to the federal court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case began in 1999, when an Osage Nation citizen who lived in Osage County which shares boundaries with the reservation challenged the right of the Oklahoma Tax Commission to tax her income. The tribe agreed with her assertion, saying its reservation never had been disestablished. In January 2009, U.S. District Judge James H. Payne sided with the Tax Commission, saying, Oklahoma has governed Osage County as a county for over 100 years. Recognizing Osage County as a reservation and ousting Oklahoma income taxation over Osage members would have significant practical consequences not only for income taxation, but potentially for civil, criminal and regulatory jurisdiction in Osage County. In 2010, the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the district courts ruling: We conclude that the Osage reservation has been disestablished by Congress. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal of that ruling. McGirt decision had impacts on multiple Oklahoma tribes But in 2020, the Supreme Court ruled in McGirt v. Oklahoma that the Muscogee (Creek) Nation reservation in eastern Oklahoma still existed, which meant Oklahoma no longer had the power to prosecute criminal cases involving Native Americans on those lands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the McGirt decision, state courts have expanded the ruling over the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Quapaw and Seminole reservations. But in December 2021, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals ruled that the McGirt decision shouldnt apply to a reservation shared by the Kiowa, Comanche and Apache tribes in southwestern Oklahoma, saying the court found that Congress had dissolved that reservation in 1900. The Osage Nation argued in the memorandum submitted to the Northern District that the McGirt decision undermines the rationale by which the court ruled in favor of the Tax Commission in 2009. The tribe said the McGirt decision makes clear that a reservation is only disestablished if Congress says so in federal law. The decision in Osage Nation v. Irby was and is completely indefensible, Osage Nation Attorney General Clint Patterson said in a statement. The Osage Nation has the best case for a reservation. The Osage Nation purchased our reservation with our funds in 1872, and an act of Congress has never disestablished it. In their opinion, the 10th Circuit wrote exactly that before going to some extrinsic sources of history. The McGirt decision highlights the flaws in the Irby decision, and this motion gives us a chance to fix those flaws. Emily Haxton, a spokeswoman for the Oklahoma Tax Commission, said that agency does not comment on pending legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August 2022, Osage County District Judge Stuart Tate ruled that the tribes reservation no longer exists, basing his order mostly on the federal court ruling from 2009. In that case, the Oklahoma attorney generals office argued in court filings that the 2010 case settled any questions about the status of the Osage reservation long before the McGirt decision. The 10th Circuit definitively ruled on this issue, Phil Bacharach, a spokesman for the attorney generals office, said Monday. If the Osage Nation believed the 2020 decision of McGirt overturned the prior precedent, it was required to seek relief years ago. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Osage Nation asking court to reconsider ruling about its reservation Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Kristen Clarke, the U.S. assistant attorney general for civil rights, watch at Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara delivers remarks at a press conference announcing the filing of a consent decree mandating police reforms on Jan. 6, 2025. Photo by Madison McVan/Minnesota Reformer. The U.S. Department of Justice and the city of Minneapolis released the details of an agreement mandating reforms of the Minneapolis Police Department on Monday afternoon. The agreement called a consent decree is the culmination of the federal governments investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department following the police killing of George Floyd that found a pattern of racial discrimination Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ investigation found that the department violated residents Constitutional rights by discriminating against Black and Native American residents and routinely using excessive force, including unjustified deadly force and unreasonable use of Tasers. The consent decree adds onto the reforms laid out in a similar agreement between the police department and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. The federal consent decree prohibits, among other things; using handcuffs on children under the age of 14; the use of neck restraints and choke holds; the use of some tear gases, including Mace; and the initiation of foot chases just because a person runs away when they see an officer. Misconduct investigations must be completed within 180 days, with exceptions granted only in extenuating circumstances. And, investigations will continue even if an officer retires or resigns from the department. A 2020 Reformer investigation found that the average misconduct investigation that resulted in discipline took 539 days to resolve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers under investigation for misconduct, or who are suspended from the force, cant work off-duty jobs. The agreement requires the police department to rewrite its use-of-force policies; create a force review board and a force investigation team to evaluate and investigate whether a use of force was appropriate; and take certain steps to protect the rights of journalists to cover protests. It also requires the police to stop discriminating against residents based on their race. Both the state and federal agreements will use the same third-party evaluator, Effective Law Enforcement for All, to make sure the police department implements the agreed-upon policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Minneapolis City Council unanimously approved the consent decree Monday afternoon after an all-day meeting with the City Attorney Kristyn Anderson. One council member, Michael Rainville, inadvertently missed the vote. U.S. Department of Justice attorneys filed the consent decree in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, asking U.S. District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery to issue an order enacting the agreement. Once the judge signs off, the consent decree will take effect. Kristen Clarke, the assistant attorney general for civil rights at the DOJ, didnt say whether the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump could cancel the agreement. In Trumps first term, then-Attorney General Jeff Session canceled negotiations over a proposed consent decree regarding policing in Chicago. (The state of Illinois took over the federal governments role in negotiating and enforcing the reforms.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant speak to the future, but the Justice Department has always been focused on ensuring compliance with the Constitution, ensuring compliance with federal law, and ensuring public safety, Clarke said when asked for the third time whether the Trump administration could choose to negate the agreement. In a statement released after the press conference, City of Minneapolis spokesperson Jess Olstad said once the judge approves the decree, it can only be terminated by the court. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) linked six teenagers to some car break-ins across Nashville. The MNPD identified two teenagers allegedly involved in car break-ins in The Gulch and four teens believed to have been involved in break-ins in East Nashville. Two of the alleged East Nashville burglars had prior records involving vehicle theft. One of the teens was found carrying a handgun. Teens suspected in multiple vehicle crimes arrested in Madison following chase Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a Dec. 2023 report from the Tennessee Commission on Youth (TCCY), guns stolen from cars have increased by more than 12,441 percent since 2012. In 2022, young people committed over 30,000 crimes. In light of the recent break-ins, MNPD has increased patrols in parts of East Nashville. However, Jordan Huffman, Metro Councilmember for District 14, said the solution requires a combined effort not just from police, but from all city and state leadership. If we are not going to keep the kids on a level of accountability, somebody has to be accountable, Huffman said. If you dont know where your kids are and its three, four, five oclock in the morning, well, thats on you. A crime map from the MNPD shows at least 79 police reports of car break-ins in parts of East Nashville in the last four weeks. Data from MNPD shows on average, there were 172 vehicle theft cases every week in 2024, which is lower than 2023s average. Huffman told News 2 that the MNPD is addressing this as best they can, but the ultimate change lies in the judicial system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are very interested in making sure that we are providing as much services that we can to make sure that child never comes back into the system, Nashville Juvenile Court Judge Sheila Calloway said. One Tennessee lawmaker has a possible solution for targeting repeat offenders. A new bill from State Representative John Gillespie (R-Memphis) would require a parent or guardian whose child is charged with a crime for a third time to pay for law enforcement expenses tied to the crime. The cost could be up to $1,000. Calloway said the proposed change could hinder rehabilitation. [Its] putting more on some families that dont have the money already, Calloway said. There are some families that have parents that are active, and they are doing the best that they can, and their child just makes a bad decision regardless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee She told News 2 that instead, she encourages programs that involve the parent and the child growing from the experience together. We reached out to Representative Gillespies office for an interview, but as of publication, there has been no response. The MNPD is holding an East Precinct community meeting at 936 E Trinity Lane on Tuesday at 6 p.m. to discuss car break-ins. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COURTESY PHOTO U.S. Attorney General for Hawaii Clare Connors COURTESY PHOTO U.S. Attorney General for Hawaii Clare Connors U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii Clare E. Connors on Monday submitted her resignation effective 11 :59 p.m. on Jan. 19, the day before President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House. It was a privilege to rejoin this office and to serve Hawaii as the chief federal law enforcement officer, Connors said in a statement. The departments mission to keep the community safe from threats foreign and domestic ; protect civil rights ; and uphold the rule of law is critical to our states overall well-being and I am honored to have worked alongside the committed public servants who will continue to fulfill it. Connors was sworn in as U.S. Attorney for Hawaii on Jan. 3, 2022, following her nomination by President Joe Biden on Sept. 28, 2021, and confirmation by the U.S. Senate on Dec. 7, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As U.S. Attorney, Connors led a team of about 60 attorneys and support staff, overseeing the prosecution of federal crimes such as national security threats, public corruption, drug trafficking, child exploitation, firearms offenses and violent crime. The office said it also handled civil actions, defended the U.S. government in civil cases and collected debts owed to the country. During her tenure, Connors focused on addressing public corruption and integrity crimes, collaborating with state and local law enforcement to tackle organized crime, large-scale drug operations and violent crime, according to a news release. Her office also worked on initiatives like Threat Team Hawaii and supported efforts to combat child exploitation and other community-focused programs such as Weed and Seed Hawaii. 68 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . After a viral video circulated on social media sites alleging that inmates abused a dog at the Clayton County animal shelter, police issued a statement refuting those claims. The Clayton County police department issued a statement along with a video on their Facebook page and said the claims made by the person who posted the video were completely unfounded and without merit following an investigation into the video and the allegations. What was alleged to be a dogs head in the video was, in fact, an inmates elbow as they were petting the animal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you review the second video, youll notice that the gate is open, and the individuals remain in the same location. This footage is from an older camera that records based on motion activity in the room, which caused portions of the video to be omitted. In contrast, the first video, captured by a newer camera, provides full-color footage with a complete angle, keeping both the individual and the animal in frame at all times. Please compare both videos carefully and note the similarities for accuracy, the department said in the statement. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Police concluded their statement by cautioning the public from knowingly filing false reports. While we encourage the reporting of legitimate concerns, false allegations harm that trust and detract from addressing real issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, it is important to note that filing false reports or providing knowingly false information to law enforcement is a serious offense under Georgia law. According to O.C.G.A. 16-10-20, such actions are classified as felonies, punishable by up to $1,000 in fines, 1-5 years in prison, or both. Any individual found responsible for disrupting government operations with baseless accusations will be held fully accountable under the law. We urge all citizens to exercise responsibility and ensure any allegations are based on factual evidence before bringing them forward. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The winter storm blowing across Virginia is causing some delays and cancellations in Hampton Roads. ___ TUESDAY Norfolk State University The university will open at 11 a.m. ___ Christopher Newport University CNU will open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. ___ Virginia Beach All city schools will operate on a two-hour delay. ___ Norfolk All city schools will be closed. ___ Chesapeake City offices, libraries, community centers and courts will open at 10 a.m. Tuesday. City employees with questions should check with their supervisors to determine their schedule expectations for the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All city schools will operate on a two-hour delay. ___ Portsmouth All city schools will operate on a two-hour delay. ___ Franklin Franklin City Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay Tuesday. ___ Gloucester County Public schools will be closed Tuesday. All games and student activities are canceled. Essential personnel may be required to report to work by their immediate supervisors. To make up for the lost instructional time, Wednesday, Jan. 17, will now be a full student day. ___ Mathews County Mathews County Public Schools will be closed Tuesday. ___ Hampton All city schools will be closed. ___ Newport News Public schools and offices will be closed for students and most employees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ Suffolk City offices will have a delayed opening of 10 a.m. Schools will operate on a two-hour delay. The North Suffolk Library, Morgan Memorial Library, East Suffolk Recreation Center, Curtis Milteer Recreation Center, Bennetts Creek Recreation Center, and Suffolk Art Gallery will open at 10 a.m. ___ Virginia Peninsula Community College Virginia Peninsula Community College will open at 10 a.m. Tuesday. ___ York County All schools and school offices will be closed Tuesday for students and staff. Essential personnel will be notified by their supervisors regarding report times. ___ Williamsburg-James City County All schools will be closed. Tuesdays School Board meeting has been cancelled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ Poquoson All city schools will be closed. ___ New Kent County All schools will be closed. ___ King William County All schools will be closed. ___ King & Queen County All schools will be closed. ___ Surry County All schools will be closed. ___ Isle of Wight County All schools will be closed. CNNs chief media analyst dubbed Metas moderation policy changes a MAGA makeover, while suggesting that CEO Mark Zuckerberg is transforming into Elon Musk. CNNs Brian Stelter on Tuesday called out the multibillionaire Meta chief for his attempts to kiss up to Donald Trump with his announcement that Facebook would shift its moderation team from liberal California to conservative Texas to reduce concerns about bias. Oftentimes, it seems that these tech CEOs actually are favoring or preferring a certain kind of speech, Stelter said. Theyre favoring their own speech or their own political preferences and not the actual entire user or the communitys speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stelter suggested that based on his recent moves, Zuckerberg seems to be following the lead of fellow tech billionaire Musk, who has emerged as a close ally and valuable backer of Trump in the run-up to his presidential victory. Metas new plans included scrapping its fact-checking program and replacing it with a community notes system mirroring that of X, Musks platform. Musk also previously announced plans to move the headquarters of his social platform X from California to Texas. Stelter slammed both men for purporting to be advocates of free speech but instead lifting of up pro-Trump voices. He said that new policy changes at Meta are very much a MAGA makeover, a pro-Trump makeover. Thats going to win Meta some conservative users, but it may repel some liberals, Stelter said. Thats the same thing weve seen happen on Elon Musks X. Hes turned it into more of a right-wing platform where hes pro free speech, when its really pro-Musk or pro-Trump speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zuckerberg had made a series of recent moves that suggest hes trying to make nice with Trump ahead of him taking office. Last month, Zuckerberg joined other tech titans, including Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, in pledging $1 million to Trumps inauguration, which is set for Jan. 20. On Monday, he announced that he was adding UFC CEO Dana White, a longtime Trump ally, to Metas board of directors. During his appearance Tuesday, Stelter also took aim at Musk for his slew of posts about the sexual abuse of young girls in the United Kingdom. He noted that although some of the stories Musk was sharing were decades old, the worlds richest man didnt seem to acknowledge this fact. They are horrible stories, Stelter said, but oftentimes it seems like Musk is coming in like a brand new college freshman, brand new to a subject, as if hes found out about it for the first time. Stelter also drew attention to the timing of changes to his social media platforms content-boosting algorithm which he announced last week. Algorithm tweak coming soon to promote more informational/entertaining content. We will publish the changes to @XEng. Our goal is to maximize unregretted user-seconds. Too much negativity is being pushed that technically grows user time, but not unregretted user time. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 4, 2025 Musk also is announcing algorithm changes to X, Stelter said. He wants more positive content and less negative content, even as he posts about gangs and about rape and other very negative subjects. it is notable that just as Trump is about to take office, Musk says he wants more positivity, more positivity and less negativity. RICHLANDS, Va. (WJHL) The CNX Foundation donated $24,000 to nine first responder departments in Southwest Virginia, Kentucky and West Virginia. We are pleased to be able to assist our first responders in meeting some of their needs, CNX Resources Vice President Brian Green said in a news release. In many cases, the departments indicated they would use the funding received toward match money for other grants the departments have sought. United Way of Southwest Virginia raises $2M+ for Helene recovery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The donations will help fund the needs of the following departments: Big Rock Volunteer Fire Department: wireless communication headsets Slate Creek Volunteer Fire Department: gas monitoring equipment and turn-out gear Knox Creek Volunteer Fire Department: portable speed bumps, safety vests, LED warning lights and LED wands for traffic control at night Phelps Fire and Rescue: hoses, nozzles, pike poles and spanner wrenches Pike County Sheriffs Office: safety vests, flares, lights and laptop computers Bradshaw Volunteer Fire Department: red lights for trucks Iaeger Volunteer Fire Department: radios Hanover Volunteer Fire Department: battery power for extrication equipment Wyoming County Sheriffs Office: body cameras We appreciate all the first responders in the communities where we have well and pipeline operations in the three-state area, Green said. Making these donations is just a small way for us to show that appreciation. The donations were delivered before the end of 2024 and marked CNXs second round of donations to first responders. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6The Coast Guard is investigating after a series of red flares were set off near Willard Beach and Casco Bay, signaling false alarms and wasting the agency's resources. Bystanders spotted one flare at Fishermen's Point along South Portland's Willard Beach early Monday . That came after back-to-back reports of flare sightings near Willard Beach on Dec. 27 and 28, the guard said in a statement Monday. "Spent flare casings were located on Willard Beach, but no other signs of distress were found," the guard said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All told, the three false alarms cost the agency more than $28,000 over the course of three searches that stretched more than 80 miles and included help from a handful of partner agencies, the guard said. "False reports of distress are serious," said Capt. Matthew Baker, the Coast Guard's Northern New England sector commander. "They unnecessarily endanger our crews and needlessly cost the taxpayers money." Red and orange flares are international signs of distress, the guard said. Faking such calls can result in criminal and civil penalties, including imprisonment, fines and reimbursement of costs associated with the search. The false flares follow a series of fake radio distress calls made in October near Mount Desert Island and Great Cranberry Island. Anyone with information is asked to contact the guard's investigative service online or at 833-449-2407. Copy the Story Link Be prepared to bundle up when heading out, Michigan's cold, wintry weather will continue throughout the week, with snow possible in some regions. The National Weather Service says to expect temperatures from the single digits to 20 degrees, negative wind chills, and lake effect snow during the week, depending upon where you are. Here's what the National Weather Service is saying about this week's forecast. What will the weather be in Detroit this week? Southeast Michigan is in for a cold week, with highs in the teens and 20s, the NWS office in White Lake said. The region could see scattered snow showers starting Wednesday afternoon, with a chance of snow accumulation less than 1 inch, per the NWS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wind chills are expected to be near zero Thursday morning. Friday night will bring a chance of snow, followed by a slightly warmer weekend, with highs in the low 30s Saturday, the weather service said. More: Which state parks advanced to Round 2 of Michigan State Park Madness? How you can vote What will the weather be in northern Michigan? The Gaylord NWS office is predicting lake effect snow in the region starting Tuesday afternoon, with highs in the low 20s. Snow accumulations could reach up to 4 inches locally, with 2-3 inches expected in parts of Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties, the weather service said. "Another round of lake effect snow showers is set to continue across Northern Michigan starting this afternoon, favoring areas around the Traverse Bay region," the weather service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesday will be cold, dropping to a high of about 10 degrees with a negative wind chill, followed by a clear, sunny Thursday with a high near 20, per the NWS. Friday could see afternoon snow showers continuing overnight, followed by a dry Saturday and chance of snow showers Sunday. In the Harbor Springs and Petoskey areas, expect a chance of snow showers Tuesday followed by a cold, dry Wednesday and Thursday, the weather service said. The area could see snow showers Friday afternoon and overnight, a dry Saturday and chance of snow showers returning Sunday. What is the forecast in west Michigan? The Grand Rapids NWS office said west Michigan is set for a cold, cloudy Tuesday, with light snow possible toward US-10. Expect highs in the upper 20s, with northwest winds from 5-15 mph. Parts of the region are under a hazardous weather outlook for lake effect snow showers slick travel conditions overnight Tuesday and Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, mainly west of U.S. 131, the weather service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The region could see snow showers continuing through Wednesday overnight before clearing by Thursday, the weather service said. Expect highs in the 20s this week, with a chance of snow showers returning Friday afternoon and overnight before clearing Saturday and a chance of snow showers again Sunday. What will the weather be in Lansing? Expect a similar forecast in Lansing, with a cold, cloudy Tuesday giving way to a chance of snow showers Wednesday afternoon and overnight, the NWS in Grand Rapids said. The area is set for a cold, sunny Thursday, with a chance of snow showers back Friday afternoon and overnight, clear Saturday and a chance of snow showers back Sunday. How cold will the Upper Peninsula get this week? The Marquette NWS office is predicting strong lake effect snow in Marquette and Alger counties Tuesday, along with light lake effect snow in other areas along Lake Superior. Expect a lower chance of snow Wednesday, clearing by Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snow showers could be back Friday into overnight, clearing Saturday, before returning Saturday night into Sunday, per the NWS. Highs in the teens and 20s, warming to the upper 20s by the weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parts of the central and western UP are under a hazardous weather outlook for light to moderate snow accumulation into Tuesday overnight, followed by light snow accumulation through Wednesday, per the NWS. In the Munising area, about 4 inches of new snow has fallen since Sunday. Areas of the Kewneenaw are reporting about 2 inches of snow in the past few days. In Sault Ste. Marie, Tuesday is set for sunny, cold weather, with highs in the low teens and a negative wind chill, per the NWS office in Gaylord. Highs will drop to single digits Wednesday before warming up to near 20 Thursday. Snow showers could hit the area Friday, with highs warming to the upper 20s, the weather service said. Saturday will be clear, followed by a chance of snow showers Sunday. What will the weather be in southwest Michigan? In southwest Michigan, including Battle Creek, Sturgis and Coldwater, Tuesday brings highs in the upper 20s and cloudy skies, the weather service said. Expect a chance of snow showers Wednesday into overnight before clearing Thursday, the NWS said. Snow could return Friday into overnight, clearing Saturday and potentially back Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Thin mints, Samoas, Trefoils: Where Girl Scout Cookies are on sale in Michigan this winter What will the weather be in Port Huron and the Thumb? The weather service's Detroit/Pontiac office said the region is in for a cold, sunny week, with highs in the teens and 20s. Some areas could see a chance of snow overnight Friday. Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Winter cold, lake effect snow on way for many in Michigan GULF SHORES, Ala. (WKRG) The chilly temperatures arent keeping people from heading to the Gulf State Park Pier, but the weather will cause closures at the pier to be aware of. Due to expected freezing weather throughout the week, the pier will close at 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, so park officials can turn the water off to help prevent any pipes from bursting. Cold weather shelters to open in Mobile County this week Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Park officials said the pier should reopen each morning after 7 a.m. once the temperature rises enough to safely turn on the water. However, a little cold doesnt mean the fish wont bite. About a dozen people braved the cold and headed to the pier Monday afternoon in hopes of catching a big one or just simply to enjoy the views offered at the pier. Its really cold in Dallas, Robert Perry, a visitor from Texas, said. We tried to get away from the cold, and it sort of followed us over here, but we wanted to come see the beautiful beach. Im surprised to see anybody, Jim Doemel, a visitor from Wisconsin said. I thought I was the only fool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trial to begin in case where 2 MFRD captains allege wrongful termination, officials say While some people out fishing at the pier had some luck reeling in a catch, others did not. Trying to catch some fish, but its just a little bit on the windy side and a little bit too cold, not having much luck, Doemel said. However, despite the wind and the cold, many at the pier said that the views of the Gulf of Mexico were what made the trip worth it. Oh, its worth it. I mean, we were just saying as we were walking down the pier, its worth it, Vicky Perry, another visitor from Texas, said. Its beautiful. Its our first time here, so were like, Its stunning; its beautiful.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the latest information about closures at the Gulf State Park Pier, visit their Facebook page. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The snow and ice that fell during the winter storm is not expected to go anywhere for days, as temperatures remain at or below freezing for many and four states may see soon get another storm. Cold weather alerts and freeze alerts issued from New Mexico to Florida. Wind chills are near 20 degrees all the way south to the Gulf Coast and are in the 30s in Florida. The major winter storm that brought heavy snow and ice from Kansas to New Jersey is gone. Washington, D.C., had 7.1 inches of snow, making it the biggest snowstorm since 2019. And Cincinnati, Ohio, received about 10.6 inches of snow, marking the biggest snowstorm since 2016. PHOTO: An ABC News graphic shows the wind chills on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, across the United States. (ABC News) PHOTO: An ABC News graphic shows the wind chills expected in several U.S. cities. (ABC News) The chilly weather will continue for most of the East through Friday. The cold air in place, will set up perfect conditions for a new winter storm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Major winter storm slams mid-Atlantic, closing schools and canceling flights: Latest A winter storm watch has already been issued for four states: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Lousiana, where snow and sleet could create treacherous road conditions. Ice and snow are expected to begin in Texas and Oklahoma early Thursday morning and will continue all day. Dallas, Texas; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Little Rock, Arkansas, are just a few cities that will see this winter storm Thursday morning into Friday morning. By Friday, the snow will move into Tennessee, hitting both Memphis and Nashville, with ice possible for northern Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. PHOTO: An ABC News graphic shows the Winter Storm Watch that covers several several U.S. cities on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 (ABC News) MORE: 1 dead, 1 injured after ski group triggers avalanche in Wyoming Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even Atlanta, Georgia, could see ice and snow on Friday afternoon and evening. Snow is also expected to fall in the recently hard hit Ohio Valley on Friday from Louisville to Cincinnati. PHOTO: An ABC News graphic shows the next winter storm expected in several U.S. cities on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025 (ABC News) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By Friday night into Saturday the snow will move into mid-Atlantic and I-95 corridor again. At this point, it is still too early to say how much snow I-95 corridor will get, but a few inches possible, especially from Washington to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Cold weather alerts from New Mexico to Florida, with another winter storm expected originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Editors Note: The court documents referenced are extensive, so they are included in their entirety at the bottom of the article. COLEMAN COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) A Coleman County grandmother accused of poisoning her young granddaughter through a feeding tube and making it seem like the child had illnesses that required extensive medication and treatment has been arrested. Lisa Campbell-Goins was taken into custody last week on warrants for Unlawful Restraint, Exploitation of Child/Elderly/Disabled, and Injury to a Child/Elderly/Disabled in connection to the allegations. She now remains held in the Tarrant County Jail on bonds totaling $150,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents filed in the case reveal detectives began investigating allegations of medical child abuse after a family member came forward at Cook Childrens Medical Center in January 2024, where Campbell-Goins granddaughter was hospitalized, saying she was concerned the childs symptoms were caused by poison in the childs feeding tube. This family member expressed concern about a bottle of nail polish remover that was near the child before she was last hospitalized, even though Campbell-Goins did not have painted fingers. Other family members said they thought this was strange as well. The documents state multiple family members describe witnessing Campbell-Goins administering Benadryl and Melatonin through the childs feeding tube and that she had been doing this since she began caring for the child in 2021, after the child fell at the age of 7-months-old and hit her head, causing an alleged movement disorder called dystonia. The documents reveal that later in the investigation, detectives concluded the child only suffered minor injuries from the fall. Detectives learned Campbell-Goins did not have legal custody of the child and had her removed from the hospital while the investigation was ongoing. The documents state that since that time, the child has made remarkable improvements in her behavior, her ability to move around, and her ability to eat and drink by mouth. Her severe GI issues, which were the cause of the childs hospitalization, also subsided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was also taken off several medications and was given a regular hospital bed instead of a posey bed, which the documents state Campbell-Goins insisted she used, despite the advice of doctors and nurses. Detectives interviewed multiple medical professionals who were unable to diagnose the child because her symptoms were not consistent with any known illness and were not responding to treatment. During an interview in May, the documents state that one of the childs doctors, stated that once the suspect was removed from the hospital, the victim made almost immediate strides, was able to be weaned off of many psych drugs and stopped having unexplained diarrhea. Another doctor, stated that he could count on one hand the times he has seen a child as sick as the victim get better with the only thing done by medical professionals is ending interventions and decreasing care. He also advised that abuse was suspected in all the other cases he knew about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doctors were able to conclude that the childs symptoms could be explained by alkaline poisoning, which could have stemmed from nail polish remover or bottles of degreaser that were found in the childs hospital room, though the documents state doctors could not say definitively thats what caused the symptoms either. Detectives talked to a psychiatric doctor about the child being left in a posey bed at the hospital for long periods of time. The documents state the bed was procured at Campbell-Goins request and that she continually pushed for it and kept the child in it for long periods of time, despite medical professionals saying it was unnecessary. The child was in a posey bed on and off for days, weeks, or even a month at a time from August 2023 through January 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some notes from the nurses on shift while the child was at the hospital claimed that they witnessed Campbell-Goins using the posey bed as punishment for behaviors Campbell-Goins didnt like. While the child was in the care of Campbell-Goins, she was hospitalized 17 different times from January 2021 through her final stay at Cook Childrens Medical Center in August 2023, where she remained until the start of the investigation in January. The documents reveal medications the child was on, included but were not limited to, Clonidine, Gabapentin, Haloperidol, Lorazepam, Olanzapine, Quetiapine, Topiramate, Zonisamide, Oxcarbazepine, and Clonazapam. In another section, the documents reveal the child was given psychiatric medication as well such as Zyprexa, Seroqul, and Baclofen. She has since been weaned off all medications, including Benadryl, besides low doses of clonidine and Zoloft to help her concentrate in school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The child has been in the custody of her maternal grandmother since March of 2024, where she continues to recover. The documents state her feeding tube has been removed, shes gained weight, shes had regular bowel movements and is barely on any medications. She also had her gastrostomy closed and now takes food and medicine by mouth with no issues. The child has no abnormal behavior issues as well, and is in school for the first time, where the documents state she is excelling socially but is being monitored to see if she is behind educationally due to a learning disorder or because she has not received any formal education up until this point. Due to the childs drastic improvement since leaving the hospital and Campbell-Goins care, the documents state doctors determined that the childs disorders were consistent with fabricated illness and that this child is most likely the, unfortunate victim of medical child abuse. In addition to the illnesses, Campbell-Goins allegedly caused $600,000 worth of Medicaid fraud due to the unneeded treatment and hospitalization, and she also collected hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in donations from GoFundMe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Campbell-Goins is also accused of similar behavior in the past. The documents state her stepson claims Campbell-Goins falsified his symptoms when he was a teenager so he would be on higher doses of ADHD medication and that she would also give him some of his fathers medication. Campbell-Goins was also under official DFPS investigation in 1999 when she was caught telling doctors her son had vomited at the hospital when he had not. Her then-husband also reported he came to believe she was inducing illness in her son and over-medicating him. This investigation was closed after Campbell-Goins took parenting classes. She also says she was tested for Munchausen by Proxy in 1999 but claimed she didnt have it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For in-depth information on these allegations, feel free to read the court documents in their entirety below: 62743Download 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. WORCESTER, Mass. (AP) Six Massachusetts college students are facing charges after police say they assaulted a man who had been tricked through a dating app into visiting campus as part of a "Catch a Predator trend on social media. The group is scheduled to be arraigned on Jan. 16 in Worcester, Massachusetts. The man an active-duty military service member told police that he was in town for his grandmother's funeral in October and began communicating with an Assumption University student whose Tinder profile said she was 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said she invited him over, but when he got there, a group of people came out of nowhere and started calling him a pedophile," accusing him of wanting sex with 17-year-old girls, according to a complaint filed by campus police. The man said he was grabbed but was able to break free and ran while being chased by at least 25 people. He made it to his car, where he said he was punched in the head and his car door was slammed on him, the police statement said. He fled and called city police. Campus surveillance video shows the woman escorting him into a basement lounge, and then him running upstairs, followed by a large group of students, including the woman, all with their cellphones out in what seems to be a recording of the whole episode, the police statement said. A few minutes later, the woman and others are seen returning laughing and high fiving with each other. After the assault, the woman, who is 18, reported the man to police as a sexual predator and said she was frightened by him. She said he had come to campus uninvited. She also told police he was creepy and that she had texted a male friend who chased the guy away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Campus police said they determined her report was false after reviewing the surveillance recordings and finding that first person perspective videos were being circulated among students. Now she and four other adult students face kidnapping and conspiracy charges. The woman also is charged with witness intimidation. One of the five also is charged with assault and battery. The sixth student is a juvenile. Campus police allege that some of the students conspired to simulate the TikTok fad of luring a sexual predator to a location and subsequently physically assaulting him or calling the police." One of those charged mentioned To Catch a Predator host Chris Hansen. The NBC show ran from 2004 to 2007 and involved adults impersonating underage people to catch men who contacted them over the internet for sex. The student said that catch a predator is a big thing on TikTok currently but that this got out of hand and went bad, according to the police statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, 11 teenagers in Illinois were charged in two separate assaults on men who had used online dating apps, and investigators "learned that some of the teenage offenders got this idea through a viral social media trend they saw online, Mount Prospect police said in a news release. Assumption University President Greg Weiner said the behavior described in the court filing is abhorrent and antithetical to Assumption University's mission and values. This situation is particularly sobering because the victim is an active-duty military service member. His service reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who defend our freedoms, including the opportunity to pursue a college education, he added in the statement. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) urged President-elect Trump to admit Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico as states before eyeing Greenlands addition to the U.S. If its the choice of the people of Greenland to join the greatest country on earth, I would welcome them as our 53rd state, right after we admit Puerto Rico and Washington DC as states, Polis wrote in a Tuesday post on the social platform X. The incoming president has ramped up rhetoric about acquiring the autonomous Danish territory in recent weeks, forcing Denmarks leaders to clarify its not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenlands leader last week called for independence. However, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday during a televised interview that Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede has been very, very clear that there is a lot of support among the people of Greenland that Greenland is not for sale and will not be in the future either. Donald Trump Jr. traveled to Greenland on Tuesday for what he called a day trip, stoking speculation about his fathers future plans. President-elect Trump has also suggested that Canada should merge with the U.S. to become its 51st state, arguing during a Tuesday press conference that it makes economic sense. Polis warned against passing over U.S. territories that have long sought statehood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898, with limited representation in Congress and often insufficient federal resources. The island has recently struggled with power outages and devastating hurricanes that have ravaged the land mass. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) has been pushing for D.C. to become the 51st state since her first term in 2015, joining a statehood movement that stretches back decades. Bowser met with Trump in late December for what she called a great meeting. President Trump and I both want Washington, DC to be the best, most beautiful city in the world and we want the capital city to reflect the strength of our nation, she wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said during his last term that Republicans will never allow D.C. to become a state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JONES COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) A Colorado man was arrested after a high speed chase from Hattiesburg to Laurel, authorities said. Jones County deputies said Angelino Vialpando, 30, of Colorado Springs, fled from a traffic stop by Hattiesburg police on Monday, January 6. Man shot in parking lot of Hattiesburg apartment complex According to investigators, Vialpando traveled on Interstate 59 from Hattiesburg toward Laurel. Troopers with the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) joined the chase along with Jones County deputies, Ellisville police, Laurel police, Jones County deputies and Constable Danny Gibson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Near the Chantilly Street exit in Laurel, Jones County Sheriffs Department narcotics agents were able to deploy spike strips, which disabled Vialpandos tires. His vehicle crashed off of the right side of I-59 near the 98-mile marker northbound. Deputies said Vialpando was captured after he ran away from his vehicle. No injuries were reported during the chase. Angelino Vialpando (Courtesy: Jones Co. Sheriffs Dept.) A Colorado man was arrested after a high speed chase from Hattiesburg to Laurel, authorities said. (Courtesy: Jones Co. Sheriffs Dept.) A Colorado man was arrested after a high speed chase from Hattiesburg to Laurel, authorities said. (Courtesy: Jones Co. Sheriffs Dept.) A Colorado man was arrested after a high speed chase from Hattiesburg to Laurel, authorities said. (Courtesy: Jones Co. Sheriffs Dept.) According to investigators, Vialpando is listed as a sex offender on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation Sex Offender Registry. He was transported to the Jones County Adult Detention Center and charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance. A hold was also placed on Vialpando. Additional charges are pending or are under consideration by law enforcement agencies. 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 WJTV. DENVER (KDVR) One person was injured in a shooting at a convenience store parking lot in Commerce City on Monday night. The Commerce City Police Department said the shooting occurred at 7:30 p.m. at a gas station parking lot at the intersection of East 64th Avenue and Holly Street. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox The gas station is across the street from Central Elementary School. Not many details were made available Monday night, but police said a male victim was taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds. Commerce City police said the victim is expected to survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just after midnight on Tuesday, Commerce City police said a suspect was in custody and is facing attempted murder charges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A court order secured by New York State Attorney General Letitia James means the official dissolution of the Community Resource Collaborative, according to an announcement made by James Tuesday. NYS Attorney General looks to dissolve Community Resource Collaborative The CRC is a nonprofit that was hired by Monroe County in 2023 to manage and divide American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds among community groups made up of whats called the Neighborhood Collaborative Project. The agreement was set to last through 2026. However, the group faced major backlash amid accusations that organization leadership was using the money outside of its intended purpose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to an audit by Monroe County, several thousand dollars of ARPA funding was used for personal endeavors by group executives. This included the repayment of loans for founder Tina Paradiso. Thousands of dollars were also paid to board member Anthony Hall, and other funds were used to pay for transportation and living expenses. As a result of this self-dealing and financial mismanagement, the CRC failed to deliver $243,907.02 to community charities that provide food, housing, and other services and were promised aid, James announced Tuesday. Monroe County Legislature rejects replacement for Community Resource Collaborative The court order will also ensure an independent receiver is appointed to oversee CRCs remaining assets and take care of local nonprofits owed money. 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 wrongful death lawsuit against the Fonda Specialty Care nursing home should not be allowed to proceed, the home argues, due to an arbitration agreement signed by the deceased's family. (Facility photo via Google Earth; document courtesy of Iowa Judicial Branch.) A wrongful death lawsuit against an Iowa nursing home should be tossed out of court due to an arbitration agreement signed by the mans family, the homes owners claim. In February 2023, Marvin Pete Jacobs died at the Fonda Specialty Care nursing home where he had lived for six months with a tracheostomy tube that provided an airway for him to breathe. According to state records, Jacobs airway needed to be suctioned every eight hours, at minimum, to keep it clear of any fluids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State inspection reports indicate that in the minutes leading up to Jacobs death, a nurse at Fonda Specialty Care, Becky Sue Manning, refused several staff requests to clear Jacobs airway so he could breathe, and that Jacobs suffocated as a result. Marvin Pete Jacobs of northwest Iowa. (Photo courtesy of the Jacobs family) Last March, Manning was criminally charged with felony wanton neglect of a health care facility resident. Recently, Manning and Pocahontas County prosecutors agreed to a deal that resulted in Manning entering an Alford plea to a reduced charge of misdemeanor wanton neglect that did not result in a serious injury. Manning is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 13. In October, the Jacobs family sued Manning, Fonda Specialty Care, the homes corporate owner, Care Initiatives of West Des Moines, and GrapeTree Medical Staffing for a variety of claims related to Jacobs death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defendants in the case recently filed motions with the court to have any further proceedings in the case stayed, arguing that when Jacobs was admitted his son signed several documents, including one in which he waived the familys right to sue for negligent care so that any such disputes could be settled through arbitration. The arbitration agreement, the defendants say, was not a prerequisite for admission. The familys attorney has yet to file a response to those motions. Care Initiatives operates 43 Iowa nursing homes as well as several assisted living centers and hospice locations that provide 2,800 elderly or disabled Iowans with care. When admitted, many of the residents sign arbitration agreements in which they forfeit their right to present any civil claims against the company to a judge or jury. In 2016, the Obama administration approved a new rule proposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that would have prohibited taxpayer-funded homes from having residents sign arbitration agreements. The American Health Care Association immediately sued CMS and a court blocked the agencys enforcement of the new rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Obama administration appealed that ruling but shortly after President Donald Trump took office, that appeal was dropped and CMS proposed a new rule that expressly allows such agreements. In 2019, that rule was finalized, and it remains in place today. Care Initiatives is currently facing at least 10 wrongful death lawsuits, including four against Northcrest Specialty Care in Waterloo. In each of the lawsuits, Care Initiatives has denied any wrongdoing and in several of the cases it has attempted to have the cases thrown out of court due to arbitration agreements. Watch a video and figure it out According to state inspectors and a lawsuit filed by Jacobs family, Manning had arrived for work at Fonda Specialty Care on the afternoon of Feb. 18, 2023, after GrapeTree, a temporary-staffing agency, assigned her to work an overnight shift in the home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Manning became aware Jacobs had a tracheostomy that would require suctioning at some point during the night, Manning allegedly told the homes assistant director of nursing she was unwilling or incapable of performing the work. The assistant director of nursing allegedly told Manning to watch a video and figure it out and left the facility for the day. At around 2 a.m. that night, Jacobs was allegedly sitting in his recliner when an employee noticed he was pointing at his neck, gasping for air, and mouthing that he could not breathe. According to state records, two certified nursing assistants immediately called Manning to Jacobs room, informing her Jacobs needed his airway suctioned. Manning allegedly took Jacobs vital signs and told an aide Jacobs was having a heart attack. The aide explained to Manning that Jacobs had been signaling he couldnt breathe, at which point Manning allegedly said, Just a minute, and left the room. Jacobs soon showed no signs of respiration, having died in his chair. The cause of death was later attributed to a heart attack caused by hypoxia a lack of oxygen with no other contributing causes or significant conditions listed on the death certificate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manning allegedly told state inspectors the CNAs wanted me to suction him (and) I told the staff, No, I was told that I would not have to do anything with the tracheostomy. After the death, the lawsuit claims, Manning falsely informed Jacobs son, Scott, that his father went quickly and peacefully. Scott Jacobs only learned of what actually transpired after being contacted by an Iowa Capital Dispatch reporter, the lawsuit claims. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing fined Fonda Specialty Care $10,000 for Jacobs death, then reduced that penalty 35%, to $6,500, due to the lack of an appeal in the case. Manning entered into a settlement agreement with the Iowa Board of Nursing in which she agreed to indefinitely suspend her practice of nursing. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) has been named a 2024 Best for Vets Employer by Military Times, recognizing the companys ongoing commitment to supporting military service members, veterans, and their families. This marks the 13th time CTC has received the prestigious honor, making it one of only 10 Pennsylvania-based organizations to earn the distinction this year. The Best for Vets program evaluates companies based on their recruitment, retention, and support for veterans, military spouses, and caregivers. The rigorous analysis focuses on employment policies, retention initiatives, and recruitment practices that directly impact transitioning service members and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CTC President and CEO Edward J. Sheehan, Jr. expressed gratitude for the contributions of military-affiliated employees. Our employees who are serving or have served in the military contribute to our companys efforts in a very meaningful way, especially considering some of our proudest achievements involve supporting our warfighters, Sheehan said. In addition to this recognition, CTC was also named a 2024 Top Veteran-Friendly Company by U.S. Veterans Magazine and has received numerous accolades from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The organization remains a member of the Veteran Jobs Mission, a coalition of more than 315 companies addressing employment needs for veterans and their families. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. CTC, a nonprofit applied scientific research and development organization, provides full lifecycle solutions through research, development, testing, and prototyping to address critical national security and manufacturing needs. For more information about CTC, visit www.ctc.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 WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. 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. 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. Massachusetts Democrat Jake Auchincloss says that should not happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 Queen City News. WASHINGTON, D.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS NOW) On Monday, Jan. 6, the Electoral College certified the 2024 election. Queen City News Now talked with political reporter Julia Manchester about what it was like on Capitol Hill on the first election certification since Jan. 6, 2021, and how Congress is preparing for a new term. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 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 this past 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. 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. 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. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) The cost of energy is expected to be front and center when state lawmakers reconvene on Wednesday for the 2025 legislative session. Higher-than-expected bills last summer sparked public outrage and a renewed focus on the factors that drive Connecticuts high electricity costs. Power struggle: Electric rates, politics and your wallet Legislative Republicans are widely expected to renew their push for a six-point policy plan that they say would deliver relief to ratepayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We for two years now have introduced and advocated for a six-point energy plan that includes taking public benefits off our electric bills, capping the price of long-term energy purchases among other reforms that will reduce long-term energy bills, State Sen. Ryan Fazio said. Fazio is the top-ranking Republican on the legislative committee with jurisdiction over energy policy. State Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, a Democratic co-chair of that committee, said he opposes Fazios proposals related to the public benefits charges and noted that the charge that drove much of last summer is higher-than-expected bills will be going away this May. Hes been a proponent of measures like the adoption of smart meters intended to lower consumer costs. Steinberg also cautioned his colleagues about the prospect of overpromising to ratepayers about what is feasible in this years legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do not want to be pandering to ratepayers by suggesting that there are easy, short-term answers that are going to have a significant impact on their bills, Steinberg said. Steinberg and his co-chair, State Sen. Norm Needleman, have both been critical of the utility giant Eversource. Theyve clearly come down on the side of their shareholders over ratepayers here in the state of Connecticut, Steinberg said. The two energy committee co-chairs say strong regulation of the utilities are necessary to guard against unwarranted rate hikes. Eversource plans to lower winter rates, but bills are still going to go up. Heres what you need to know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eversource is quick to point out that it is only responsible for two of the four items on ratepayers bills. The company transmits and distributes electricity two categories listed on bills. It does not generate electricity (a cost covered under the supply portion of the bill) nor does it set the public policies that are funded through the public benefits charge. Most folks dont understand there are four different components and only two of which are Eversource, Steve Sullivan, the head of Eversources operations in Connecticut, said. Sullivan was addressing a group of reporters following a presentation the company prepared in advance of the legislative session. Still, the energy committee leaders stressed the need for oversight of the two portions of the bill that are directly related to Eversources core business and which are regulated by the states utility regulator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one aspect of that bill shouldnt be looked at, Needleman said. On one point, Eversource, Republicans and Democrats seem to agree: Connecticuts high electricity costs are a long-term problem and one directly related to where the state gets its electricity supply from. The state sits at the end of the energy supply chain a reality that is difficult to circumvent in the short term. If youre trying to affect affordability in the long term, you have to look at that supply piece, Sullivan, the Eversource executive, said. As much as we will indulge in and have broad conversations about affordability, most of the answers are longer term, State Rep. Steinberg 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 WTNH.com. Construction is expected to start this spring on new, smaller youth prisons, which will allow the state to eventually close the larger Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility. The Ohio Department of Youth Services plans to build two, 36-bed centers and renovate an office complex in Bedford and another two, 36-bed centers will be constructed in Grafton on property formerly owned by the state adult prison system. The project is expected to cost the state $260 million. A juvenile justice task force, appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine in November 2023, recommended that Ohio shift away from incarcerating teens in its three large prisons and build smaller, closer-to-home centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special report: Ohio's juvenile detention system struggles with violence, neglect DeWine appointed the task force following publication of an investigation by the Cincinnati Enquirer, Columbus Dispatch, Akron Beacon Journal and Canton Repository into conditions inside juvenile prisons and detention centers. The investigation detailed a system struggling to help troubled teens turn their lives around. Violent fights and assaults leave teens and employees with serious injuries. Rival gangs stir unrest. And staff shortages mean children are locked in cells for extended periods and employees fear for their own safety. Ohio operates juvenile prisons in Massillon, Circleville and Highland Hills for about 470 youths ages 12 to 21 found responsible for felony acts. The property in Bedford is six miles from Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility and the Grafton site is 35 miles away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility is the first to be replaced because of its open dorm design, which can create dangerous conditions. More: Investigation into Ohio's youth prisons wins national journalism award The new facilities will be designed to house young people in physical spaces to influence positive behaviors while also providing a secure environment, according to the Ohio Department of Youth Services. Once the facility in Highland Hills is replaced, Ohio will work toward replacing the other two, state officials said. The total number of children adjudicated on felony charges has fallen from about 9,000 in 2004 to 3,200 in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other states have closed youth prisons in favor of smaller, closer-to-home facilities. California did so in June 2023. Laura Bischoff is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: DeWine administration moves to close large Ohio youth prisons Jan. 6ConsumerAffairs on Monday named Pennsylvania one of the top three states in the United States to raise a family in 2025 earning high marks for education, public safety, and healthcare. "Gov. Josh Shapiro's investments reflect the state's ongoing efforts to improve its education system an important factor for parents and guardians seeking a supportive environment for their children," a news release from the Governor's Office said. ConsumerAffairs is a consumer news and advocacy organization founded in 1998. The website includes consumer news, recalls, buyers guides and reviews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since he took office two years ago, Gov. Josh Shapiro said he has focused on making Pennsylvania a great place to live, work, and raise a family and he said the new report directly credits his work to invest in Pennsylvania's education system as a key reason why the Commonwealth is a great place to raise a family. "As I travel all across Pennsylvania no matter if I'm in a rural, urban, or suburban community people want the same basic things great schools for their kids and grandkids, safe places to live, good jobs and economic opportunity, and the freedom to chart their own course through life," said Gov. Shapiro. "We focus everyday on getting commonsense stuff done and I'm proud that Pennsylvania is ranked as one of the best places to raise a family. There's more work to do, and we're going to continue bringing people together to get stuff done, deliver more results, and make Pennsylvania the best place to live, work, and raise a family." Education Pennsylvania ranks fifth nationwide for public education standards and boasts the second-highest public high school graduation rate in the country at 96%. The report directly cited Gov. Shapiro's 2024-2025 bipartisan budget, which included a historic $1.11 billion increase in K-12 public education funding the largest single-year investment in Pennsylvania's history bringing the total investment to over $11 billion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This funding prioritizes equitable distribution, special education enhancements and a new adequacy formula to ensure every child has access to quality education. Public Safety The Commonwealth ranks in the top 10 for public safety, with positive scores in crime statistics, driving safety and climate safety. Last year's budget allocated $16 million to create four new cadet classes for the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), adding nearly 400 new State Troopers and bringing the total to 800 additional troopers since Gov. Shapiro took office. The Shapiro Administration also supported the hiring of 700 local police officers through grant funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), reinforcing its commitment to safe and secure communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health Care Pennsylvania ranks 10th for pediatric health care, offering 147 pediatricians per 100,000 children, ensuring the Commonwealth's children have adequate access to medical care. Gov. Shapiro's Administration secured the first-ever state investment to address maternal mortality, signed legislation to improve maternal health data and doubled the state's funding for maternal mortality prevention in the latest budget. Additionally, the Governor signed SB 739 to expand telemedicine services to serve more Pennsylvanians and HB 2268, which ensures children who stutter have access to speech therapy without financial barriers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Affordability In addition to the three mentioned above, Pennsylvania ranks in the top half of the states for affordability, boosted by the creation of the Employer Child Care Contribution Tax Credit to help businesses support employees' childcare expenses. This builds on the expansion of the Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit, which was signed into law by Governor Shapiro in 2023, easing financial burdens for families across the state. A State That Stands Out ConsumerAffairs highlighted Pennsylvania's success in providing a safe, nurturing environment for families, making it a top choice for those weighing relocation decisions. Vermont and Maine joined Pennsylvania at the top of the rankings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report evaluated all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., across five key categories affordability, safety, education, pediatric healthcare, and quality of life. Methodology To determine the best states in which to raise a family in 2025, ConsumerAffairs compared all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., across five weighted categories worth a total of 100 points: Affordability (30 points): The affordability score is based on the annual cost of raising a child in each state, covering expenses like food, rent, child care and tax credits. Data sources included the U.S. Census Bureau, Child Care Aware of America and the National Conference of State Legislatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Safety (20 points): The safety score is based on five metrics: violent crime, property crime, driving safety, public safety and climate safety, using data from ConsumerAffairs' study on the safest states in America. Education (20 points): The education score is based on four categories: K-12 performance, school funding and resources, higher education quality and school safety, using data from ConsumerAffairs' study on the best states for public education. Pediatric health care (20 points): The pediatric health care score considers five metrics: pediatricians per 100,000 people up to age 21, infant mortality rate, percentage of uninsured children, percentage of children who did not receive preventive care and percentage of families struggling with medical bills. Data sources include America's Health Rankings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative. Quality of life (10 points): The quality of life score is based on four metrics: percentage of children in poverty, number of state and national parks per 100,000 people, number of public libraries per 100,000 people and ConsumerAffairs' analysis of data on cities with the best air quality. Data sources include the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Outside Interactive, the National Association of State Park Directors and the National Center for Education Statistics. For the full report, visit https://www.consumeraffairs.com/movers/best-states-to-raise-a-family.html. CHICAGO Chicago Public School teachers were back in the classroom Monday as their contentious contract talks with the district continue. On Monday afternoon, the Chicago Teachers Union held a press conference giving an update on where things currently stand. In 2025, we intend to settle this. It is our hope that we can settle it at the negotiating table, CTU President Stacy Davis Gates said. We have created the conditions for yes, we have narrowed our points of bargaining, we are happy to compromise when it makes sense and we have done so. We need a settlement. PREVIOUS: Chicago Public Schools leadership concerns grow as staff, students return to classrooms after winter break Davis Gates new comments come with both sides citing progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First, a fact-finding process that could have put the union closer to a potential strike has been delayed. Theres also an agreement to offer homeless students housing help, hire more English learner teachers and expand the number of Sustainable Community Schools. Despite all of this, considerable areas of disagreement remain. The teachers want guarantees the district wont layoff or furlough workers. They also want more time during the school day to prepare lessons and theyre pushing to change how teachers are evaluated. For too many of our educators, they are being crushed under this evaluation system, Cook County Commr. and CTU member Tara Stamps said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis Gates accused CPS CEO Pedro Martinez of stalling progress and blocking board involvement. You have a union of 30,000 people and 80% of them are women who do the work. Why cant the man, the Supreme Leader, hear them when they say what they need in their school buildings? Davis Gates said. Last month, Mayor Brandon Johnsons handpicked school board voted unanimously to fire Martinez without cause. Martinez then went to court and won a temporary restraining order to prevent the school board from interfering with his job. He rejects the idea that hes blocking a deal. The urgency has never been higher as you can tell. I mean, the number of meetings, the hours, Martinez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martinez and other CPS officials insist theres movement, but with the district facing half a billion-dollar structural deficit, theyre pushing back against proposals CPS cant afford. There is no cash. There is no reserves, Martinez said. According to Martinez, negotiations have reached the stage where signed agreements would be helpful. The CTU said it has collapsed hundreds of proposals, although they wont say how many of their requests remain on the table. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Davis Gates said the district has the money to settle the teachers demands; all they have to use is tax increment finances that the city shifted to CPS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Chicagos new partially-elected school board is set to be sworn in next week. Martinez admitted he wants them to weigh in on the teachers contract. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CONWAY, S.C. (WBTW) The city of Conway elected councilman William Goldfinch as its mayor pro tem for 2025 during Mondays meeting. Before the meeting began, the council held a moment of silence in honor of former President Jimmy Carter and Coastal Carolina executive Travis Overton, who both died last week. Goldfinch, who has been on the city council since 2010, was quickly elected thereafter. The council also unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance to amend an incentive program that provides economic incentives for the redevelopment of existing vacant commercial buildings 25,000 square feet or greater within the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incentive moves from five years to 10 years and has a property tax reimbursement to help renovate buildings and facilities instead of building new ones. Goldfinch said it helps quality of life and sees it as the single biggest thing that hes had the opportunity to be part of. The city says it hopes to revitalize existing property and help surrounding businesses and residents. The Coastal Centre Mall complex off along Church Street used to be home to a Kmart. But since it closed in 2017, businesses like Jackson Hewitt Tax Service say its become rather quiet. I mean, a lot of people dont even know were here is because of the area they look over here and be like, they dont see no cars and so they dont really think anythings out here, Larry Fields, the office manager said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in October, Rise Partners acquired the vacant property. Now, the city says this move in extending the reimbursement of property taxes would provide a greater economic impact on the project cost and aid in redevelopment. Something mayor pro Tem William Goldfinch says could expand in the future. Theres a lot of dormant property there that and this is a one heck of an opportunity to see that revitalized, Goldfinch said. And so we want to be a big part of that and incentivize them to do so and be successful in what theyre doing. Goldfinch says the city wouldnt lose anything extending the reimbursement because the long-term gain would be much higher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can bring those national retailers in to generate additional revenue, Goldfinch said. You know, eventually that will be recouped and more, right. And in the meantime, we provided a service to the folks that live here in Conway. Goldfinch says this move would provide residents with stores to shop at, instead of having to travel a busy highway 501 or 544 to Myrtle Beach. Fields says he could see the redevelopment of Coastal Centre Mall increase his business and keep him from having to drive 30 minutes to do his own shopping. Its growing tremendously, Fields said. So the residents dont want to have to go all the way to Myrtle Beach. They want to be able to shop in their own little area and be able to, you know, keep the revenue right here instead of giving it to Myrtle Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conway city leaders plan to take a second vote at its Jan. 16 meeting. Goldfinch says he sees the improved plan passing with no issues. News13s Adrianna Lawrence will have a full report in our 11 p.m. newscast. * * * Adrianna Lawrence is a multimedia journalist at News13. Adrianna is originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and joined the News13 team in June 2023 after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University in May 2023. Keep up with Adrianna on Instagram, Facebook, and X, formerly Twitter. You can also read more of her work, here. * * * Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. 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 WBTW. A man convicted of withholding information from police in his roommate's murder investigation was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison on Tuesday. Cory Young is the first to go to jail and the second to be sentenced for his role in the brutal death of his roommate, Jake Kelly. Young, 45, pleaded guilty to first-degree hindering prosecution in November. His wife, Shannon Marie Higgins, 38, who also lived with Jake Kelly, pleaded guilty to first-degree hindering prosecution and was sentenced to three years on probation on Dec. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The third person involved, Angel Mullooly, admitted to killing Jake Kelly in text messages obtained by police and is the only one charged with second-degree murder. What happened to Jake Kelly? Jake Kelly, 49, was beaten and left unresponsive in the driveway of a Phoenix home on Aug. 27, 2023. His roommates, Higgins and Young, drove him to the hospital hours after the attack. Jake Kelly was in a coma and died at the hospital 11 days after the beating. According to court documents, Young and Higgins initially told police they returned home with Jake Kelly on Aug. 28, 2023, and later discovered him injured. However, charging documents revealed this account was contradicted by witness statements and text messages exchanged between Mullooly and Higgins from the previous day, which showed Kelly before the incident. On the night of the attack, Mullooly allegedly sent a photo of a bloodied Kelly, admitting in the message that he was responsible for the beating, according to the charging documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A review of multiple court documents filed by police and defense attorneys, as examined by The Republic, does not reveal any clear motive identified by police for the beating. Young was on probation out of California, court documents stated. He also served prison time in Arizona for aggravated assault convictions from 1999 and 2003, among other felonies, according to inmate records. This is his eighth known felony conviction, according to court statements. Mullooly's second-degree murder trial is set for Feb. 26. Republic reporter Jose R. Gonzalez contributed to this article. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Cory Young to serve 3.5 years for role in Jake Kelly killing As an appeals court considers the constitutionality of a 2023 Florida law aimed at preventing children from attending drag shows, it also is looking at another question: Is the case moot after an Orlando restaurant that challenged the law closed and said it plans to reopen elsewhere? An attorney for operators of the restaurant, Hamburger Marys, filed a brief Monday at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals arguing that the case is not moot. The brief said Hamburger Marys, which closed the Orlando location in June, has continued to produce drag shows with other venues and plans to host shows when it reopens in Kissimmee. The brief said Hamburger Marys provided information in June to Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Secretary Melanie Griffin, the defendant in the case, about the plan to reopen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Toy gun causes lockdown at two Seminole County schools, police say Once reopened, HM (Hamburger Marys) intends to operate the restaurant using the same drag-centric business model and age policies as its Orlando location, attorney Melissa Stewart wrote in Mondays brief. Because the act (the 2023 law) charges Secretary Griffin with state-wide enforcement of the law, HM will face the same concrete risks of unconstitutional enforcement at its Kissimmee location as it did in Orlando. A three-judge panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court heard arguments in the case in October but on Nov. 26 directed both sides to file briefs about Hamburger Marys plans to reopen and whether the current appeal is moot in light of those plans. Attorneys for the state will file a brief by Jan. 21. The state appealed in 2023 after U.S. District Judge Gregory Presnell issued a preliminary injunction against the law because he said it violated First Amendment rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: 1st bird flu death in the US reported in Louisiana The law, dubbed by sponsors the Protection of Children bill, would prevent venues from admitting children to adult live performances. It defines adult live performances as any show, exhibition, or other presentation that is performed in front of a live audience, which, in whole or in part, depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement or specific sexual activities, lewd conduct, or the lewd exposure of prosthetic or imitation genitals or breasts. Regulators would be able to suspend or revoke licenses of restaurants, bars, and other venues that violate the law. Also, it would prohibit local governments from issuing public permits for events that could expose children to the targeted behavior. While the law does not specifically mention drag shows, it came after Gov. Desantis administration cracked down on venues in South Florida and Central Florida where children attended drag shows. It also came amid a series of controversial laws passed by Republicans in Florida and other states about transgender-related issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In issuing the preliminary injunction, Presnell wrote that the law is specifically designed to suppress the speech of drag queen performers and the state already has statutes that protect children from seeing obscene performances. Read: Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez placed into Brady System, state attorney says Defendant professes that a statewide preliminary injunction would harm the public by exposing children to adult live performances, Presnell wrote. This concern rings hollow, however, when accompanied by the knowledge that Florida state law, presently and independently of the instant (2023) statutory scheme, permits any minor to attend an R-rated film at a movie theater if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Such R-rated films routinely convey content at least as objectionable as that covered by (the 2023 law). Hamburger Marys said in 2023 that it had run family-friendly drag shows for 15 years. In the brief Monday, Stewart wrote that Hamburger Marys has faced frustrating delays but continues to plan to reopen in Kissimmee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brief partially quoted a legal precedent that said a case is moot only when it is impossible for a court to grant effectual relief to the winning party. Not only is it possible for this court to grant HM effectual relief, it is more essential than ever for HMs future, the brief said. Reopening any restaurant in a new location is a monumental task; HM is reopening Hamburger Marys amidst litigation that will determine whether its core business model is legal in the state of Florida. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Jan. 7Three trustees of the Municipal Utility Board/Tahlequah Public Works Authority were up for reappointment at the Jan. 6 City Council meeting, but one was denied, one agenda item for another removed with "no action at this time," and the third confirmed. Agenda items called for reappointment of Sherry Baker, Mark Gish and Scott Wright, whose five-year terms are coming to a close; members can serve two terms. Gish was retained, but Baker and Wright were not, with Mayor Suzanne Myers asking the council to take no action on the item for Baker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ward 4 City Councilor Josh Allen made a motion to deny the item, calling for the reappointment of Gish, but he did not get a second. The second motion to approve was passed 3-1, with Allen voting no. On the item to reappoint Wright, a motion was made to approve but there was no second. A motion to "deny" was made by Ward 2 City Councilor Keith Baker; it was seconded and passed, with Ward 3 City Councilor Stephen Highers casting the dissenting vote. Wright said after the meeting that the existing board members will remain in their seats until the mayor makes an appointment, which would be confirmed by council. "As chairman of the board, I support having two council members on the TPWA board," Wright said after the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wright said it "appears" the council is sending a message that there will be no further appointments until there is another council member to join Highers, who was approved by TPWA trustees in the December meeting to be on the board. "This can be achieved when there is a future vacancy on the TPWA board," Wright said. Both Sherry Baker and Wright said they had no idea why the items were handled this way. "We are still in our capacity until we are replaced, and neither of us have been replaced," Sherry Baker said. In a letter provided to TDP, Bree Long, former councior, stated she is resigning from TPWA's board effective following the Jan. 17 TPWA meeting, which makes room for the second councilor. However, the caveat to the letter is it is "subject to the reappointment of current TPWA board members." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as a trustee and I will continue to assist TPWA as a trustee until their reappointments are ratified by council," Long said later. In response to TDP's question as to why these actions were taken, both Myers and City Administrator Taylor Tannehill said, "No comment at this time." At the council meeting Dec. 18, 2024, agenda items called for Highers, Keith Baker and Ward 1 City Councilor Danny Perry to replace Sherry Baker, Wright and Gish. All three items were removed from the agenda by Myers, with "no action at this time." A compromise was reached that Highers would come on board and a second be appointed once a TPWA board member's seat was vacated. "Since my term ended, I will be recommended back by [TPWA General Manager] Mike [Doublehead] and the board, and we will have Stephens Highers [to fill in the seat of Todd Mutzig, who resigned due to moving out of the city limits]," Sherry Baker said after the Dec. 18 council meeting. "Then we will work toward bringing in as soon as possible, and we don't have a timeline a possible second council person so there is no lack of communication between the city and the board." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fire Chief Casey Baker and Police Chief Nate King spoke before council Jan. 6, in support of having more councilors on the TPWA board. "Having more council representation on the [TPWA] board can address communication gaps and improve collaboration between the City Council and public works, and other departments like the fire department," Casey Baker said. "A lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, delay projects and insufficient responses to community needs." An example he gave was paving roads, and a few weeks later, new asphalt being cut up to add a utility line. "Adding more council members to the board ensures that information flows freely between public workers and City Council," Casey Baker said. "This alignment can result in faster decision-making and better accountability. Council members can advocate for strategic budgeting to address pressing infrastructure concerns, such as water, sewer and road access, which directly impacts emergency response." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King said he wanted to "echo" Casey Baker's words, and that it is important to have more than one council member on TPWA because the two entities the city and TPWA work "hand in hand so much." "Two things people don't like the way things are, and change," King said. "Sometimes change is scary but it doesn't mean it's bad. At the end of the day, both [TPWA] and the city of Tahlequah are working every day to make Tahlequah the best it can be. ..." Pastor Shana Dry gave the invocation and was asked to speak to the council about the warming center that opened at First United Methodist Church Sunday, Jan. 5. At the time of the meeting, 40 people are taking advantage of getting out of the cold, she said. There are 52 cots and more are being sought to meet any potential need. She said due to the forecast of snow Jan. 9-10, the schedule of open hours may be extended from the anticipated closing time of Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 11 a.m.; the decision will be made no later than Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike Fina, executive director of the Oklahoma Municipal League, gave awards to seven employees who have reached 25 years of service: Mike Underwood, Travis Miller, Mark Whittmore, Carl Dallis, Samantha Davis, Capt. Randy Tanner, and Larry Dallis. Fina said one of the things he notices in his work, and handing out the awards, is there has only been one time in eight years that he hasn't handed out one of the awards to a public safety employee. "That tells me that our public safety fire, police, ambulance, all of the above are so dedicated to their communities," Fina said. "Your dedication is unmatched and I'm so proud to come and hand these out, especially... to someone from public safety." What's next The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Feb. 3, 5:30 p.m., in Council Chambers in the City Administration Building. A UK-led coalition is using AI to track Russia's shadow fleet, the British Ministry of Defence said. The operation, involving 10 countries, comes after damage to major undersea cables in the Baltic. Finland said evidence suggests a Russia-linked ship dragged its anchor to sever the cables. A UK-led coalition of European countries has deployed AI to track Russia's shadow fleet and detect possible threats to underwater cables, after suspected sabotage incidents in recent months. On Monday, the UK's Ministry of Defence said that the Joint Expeditionary Force's operation, dubbed Nordic Warden, has been using AI to evaluate data from several sources, including the Automatic Identification System, which ships use to share their real-time locations. In the event of a potential threat, it said the system would monitor the suspect vessel in real time and issue a warning, which will be communicated to both NATO allies and participating countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UK's Defense Secretary John Healey said AI would allow them to monitor "large" sea areas using a "comparatively" small number of resources. "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 cable," Healey added. The UK MOD didn't respond to a request for comment, but in its news release said that there were 22 areas of interest, including parts of the English Channel, the North Sea, the Kattegat Sea, and the Baltic Sea. It said the operation's launch came after reported damage to a major undersea cable in the Baltic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past two months, several undersea cables in the Baltic Sea have been damaged, including the BCS East-West Interlink cable, the C-Lion1 telecommunications cable linking Finland and Germany, and the Estlink 2 electricity cable connecting Estonia and Finland. Last week, Finnish officials said they found a 60-mile trail on the seabed that suggested the Eagle S a Russia-linked tanker could have been responsible for slicing a cluster of valuable data and power cables. Edward Hunter Christie, a senior research fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs and a former NATO official, told BI that AI will help NATO identify suspicious ships among the vast majority of legitimate commercial activity in the region. Neither Russia's shadow fleet nor any other country for that matter, "even the Chinese," can afford to lose ship after ship trying to damage cables, he said, pointing to Finland's seizure of a Russian-linked vessel last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Russia needs its shadow fleet," he added, "that's how it earns its oil export revenues." Read the original article on Business Insider This post contains graphic images and/or details. Reader discretion is advised. KEARNS, Utah (ABC4) New details have been released in the murder case of 31-year-old Talia Lee Benward, who was found dead in a remote area of Tooele County early Saturday morning, Jan. 4. Nestor Oved Rocha-Aguayo, 24, was arrested Sunday evening on charges of aggravated murder (first-degree felony), tampering with evidence (first-degree felony), abuse or desecration of a dead human body (third-degree felony), receive or transfer stolen vehicle (second-degree felony), aggravated robbery (first-degree felony), and attempted escape (third-degree felony), among other charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ORIGINAL STORY: Suspect in death of missing Kearns woman apprehended in Fillmore On Jan. 2, 2025, Unified Police received a report that Talia Lee Benward, 31, of Kearns, had borrowed a family members car but had not returned it and had not been seen by other family members. Police tried to locate her and the vehicle, but were unable to find either. On Jan. 3, family members told police that Benward had still not returned, and that she had missed two days of work. At this point, she had not been seen since Jan. 1. Investigators learned that Benward had been dating Rocha-Aguayo, and that the two had several domestic violence incidents, according to court documents. Police also learned that Rocha-Aguayo had been deported on Dec. 24, 2024, but had recently returned to Utah and been in contact with Benward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a family member, Benward had said she was in communication with Rocha-Aguayo, but when the family confronted Rocha-Aguayo about seeing Benward, he allegedly denied seeing her on Jan. 1. Police obtained a warrant and searched Benwards iPad, where they found conversations in which Rocha-Aguayo asked Benward to pick him up at a gas station in West Jordan on Jan. 1. Police then obtained video of Benward arriving at the gas station in the borrowed vehicle on the same date. The footage reportedly showed the two interacting normally before what appeared to be an argument ensued. Police also obtained phone records showing the two met at the gas station and stayed together for several hours. After hours had passed, both phones entered a secluded area in Magna at around 6:45 p.m., and stayed there for about 40 minutes. They then ended up in a rural area of Tooele County, where the phones stayed for around 30 minutes. Benwards phone stopped moving just of off I-18, while Rocha-Aguayos went back to Salt Lake County. Rocha-Aguayo traveled back to Kearns, according to the statement of probable cause. Police responded to the area and found the vehicle that Benward had borrowed. They also found what was later confirmed to be human blood on the back passenger door of the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police obtained a warrant to search the vehicle and found more blood on the back seat, as well as on the back passenger door and floor. Officers also found that the floor mat was missing for this seat, while all others were still in the vehicle. Additionally, police said the trunk of the car smelled heavily of gasoline. Police responded to the Tooele County location where both phones had traveled. They reportedly found a burn pit with partially burned remains of a floor mat and rocks with what appeared to be blood stains, as well as other burned materials. Weber County Search and Rescue Cadaver Dogs were called in to help with the search. One of the K9s found a large pile of sagebrush and strategically stacked sticks, police said. Officers then found the body of a deceased female, later confirmed to be Talia Lee Benward, at this location. Once uncovered, the substantial trauma to Talias face and neck and other portions of her body were observed, court documents state. Talia had scratches and bruises throughout the top portion of her arms and chest, which appeared to be defensive wounds. Talia had marks indicating she had been dragged and other injuries that appeared to have occurred after she was already deceased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, Jan. 4, police stopped a vehicle in which Rocha-Aguayo was located. Officers reportedly tried to take him into custody with the use of a taser, but [Rocha-Aguayo] was able to flee custody, court documents state. On Sunday, Jan. 5, U.S. Marshalls tried to take Rocha-Aguayo into custody, and he tried to flee a second time but was forcefully arrested. While being transported in custody, Rocha-Aguayo reportedly also tried to jump from a moving vehicle. Police said he had been charged and convicted of third-degree felony domestic violence in October 2024, which had gone to warrant after the conviction. Rocha-Aguayo was booked into Salt Lake County Jail on the aforementioned charges. Support for victims and survivors of domestic violence is available 24/7: 1-800-897-LINK (5465). If you or someone else is in immediate danger, or in an emergency, please call 911 immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW YORK (AP) The man accused of gunning down UnitedHealthcare's CEO outside a New York City hotel is unlikely to appear in Manhattan federal court again before mid-February after prosecutors and lawyers on Monday requested more time to prepare the case for trial. The lawyers agreed in a letter to the court that the deadline to bring an indictment against Luigi Mangione can be extended from Jan. 18 to Feb. 17. Mangione, 26, is now charged in a criminal complaint, a document that is lodged against individuals prior to the return of an indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said they consulted with the defense and agreed that extending the deadline was necessary to permit both parties adequate preparation for pretrial proceedings and the trial itself. Lawyers for Mangione and federal prosecutors declined to comment. The case is unusual because at least one charge carries the possibility of the death penalty, but whether to pursue that penalty must be made by the Justice Department in Washington, where top officials will be changed as President-elect Donald Trump takes office later this month. Authorities say Mangione fatally shot Brian Thompson on Dec. 4 as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The killing shocked the business community and galvanized some health insurance critics. Mangione posted frequently online about his struggles with back pain, though he was never a UnitedHealthcare client. Federal charges against Mangione include murder and firearms counts. He made an initial appearance on the charges late last month. He won't be required to enter a plea until an indictment is returned. Mangione has pleaded not guilty in a New York state court to multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. His next appearance in state court is scheduled for Feb. 21. The maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Mangione was arrested Dec. 9 in a Pennsylvania McDonalds following a five-day search. He's being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean Diddy Combs and cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. New information released as part of Utah's ongoing lawsuit alleges TikTok LIVE targets minors and is used to launder money. (Photo by Thicha Satapitanon/Getty Images) Hundreds of thousands of children have bypassed TikToks minimum age restrictions to use the social media platforms LIVE feature, which incentivizes sexual content, sometimes viewed by predatory adults. And an internal TikTok investigation suggested the platforms virtual currency was being used in major money laundering criminal patterns. Thats according to previously redacted documents that were released Friday as part of Utahs ongoing lawsuit against TikTok, claiming the social media company is violating the states deceptive acts or practices law and consumer sales practices act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit, filed in June 2024, accuses TikTok of using a monetization feature to incentivize minors to perform sexually explicit acts on its LIVE feature TikTok then takes a significant cut from those virtual transactions, Utah alleges. In a statement to Utah News Dispatch on Friday, a TikTok spokesperson said the lawsuit ignores proactive measures that the company has voluntarily implemented. That includes robust safety protections, screen time limits for teen accounts, tools that allow parents to supervise their kids, live streaming requirements and aggressive enforcement of our Community Guidelines on an ongoing basis, the spokesperson said. The complaint cherry-picks misleading quotes and outdated documents and presents them out of context, which distorts our commitment to the safety of our community, the spokesperson said. We stand by our efforts. In the original complaint, 28 of 176 paragraphs were largely redacted, with TikTok classifying the content as confidential business records or trade secrets under Utah law. The company fought to keep the redactions but on Dec. 20, Utahs 3rd District Court Judge Coral Sanchez ruled that most of the content should be released to the public. In his ruling, Sanchez wrote that just 10 paragraphs should remain redacted, mostly because they include the money content creators have netted on TikTok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detailed in the unredacted complaint is Project Meramec, an internal investigation launched by TikTok that found 112,000 children between 13 and 15 years old were able to use TikTok LIVE during January 2022 alone. Per TikToks guidelines, users must be at least 18 years old to access LIVE. TikTok LIVE was introduced in 2019 and has since become extraordinarily popular, the complaint states. It includes a monetization feature where viewers can purchase virtual currency and gifts, which can then be exchanged for real money. According to attorneys for Utah, creators are promised more money by TikTok based on how popular their content becomes. TikToks own study concluded that LIVE enabled the exploitation of live hosts and that TikTok profited significantly from transactional gifting involving nudity and sexual activity, all facilitated by TikToks virtual currency system, according to the complaint. And some of the underage users who bypassed the age verification for TikTok LIVE would receive messages from adult users, Utah claims in the lawsuit, raising red flags to TikTok that these minors were likely being groomed by adults. Project Meramec found that adults would sometimes pay users performing on TikTok LIVE to strip, pose, and dance provocatively for diamonds, which can be cashed out for real money, according to the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the company chose to look the other way, according to attorneys for Utah transactional sexual content hits most of (TikToks) business metrics of success, the newly unredacted complaint states. The company received significant revenue in large part generated through transactions for sexual content. Utahs complaint also accused the company of not regulating LIVEs virtual currency exchanges, which it claims enables criminal activity like money laundering and drug sales. The state even accused the virtual currency of being used to fund terrorist groups, such as the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL). The unredacted information also refers to another internal study, Project Jupiter, launched in 2021 to investigate suspicions that TikTok LIVE was being used to launder money. As recently as 2023, TikTok compliance teams reported, we have identified major money laundering criminal patterns on TikTok live platform, the complaint reads, claiming the company refuses to establish accurate bookkeeping, real-time suspicious payment monitoring for fraud and money laundering, timely reporting processes to law enforcement of suspicious transaction reports, (Know Your Customer) verification for all users, or even processes to keep banned users off the platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox called the unredacted information evidence of a deliberate choice to prioritize profit over the safety and well-being of our children. TikTok knew the harm its platform was causing, yet chose to look the other way, allowing predators to exploit minors in unconscionable ways, Cox said. And the states outgoing attorney general, Sean Reyes, said online exploitation of minors can lead to depression, isolation and other tragedies such as suicide, addiction, and trafficking. It would be outrageous enough to endanger our kids the way TikTok has even if it was unintended. But the fact that it serves up minors on TikTokLive, knowing the danger, understanding the damage, and still monetizing the exploitation of our kids is unconscionable, said Reyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case is Utahs second lawsuit against TikTok, both brought by the Utah Department of Commerce. The first suit, filed in October 2023, takes aim at TikToks endless scrolling feature, which the state claims is intentionally designed to hook young people and keep them on the app longer. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Editors Note: Las Vegas Metro police issued a correction to the status of the motorcyclist after previously stating that they had died. As of Monday evening, the unidentified motorcyclist is hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. This article has been corrected to reflect the new information released by Metro police. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Las Vegas police are investigating a crash involving a motorcycle in the central Las Vegas valley. On Monday around 3:50 p.m., police responded to a report of a crash involving a motorcycle and two vehicles in the area of Eastern and Cedar avenues near the U.S. 95. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evidence at the scene and witness statements showed that a Harley-Davidson motorcycle was traveling southbound on Eastern Avenue approaching Cedar Avenue on a green light when a Honda Civic attempted to make a left turn on a flashing yellow light. The crash occurred when the Honda failed to yield the right of way and crashed into the side of the motorcycle, causing the motorcyclist to be ejected, police said. The motorcyclist sustained a severed foot and was taken to a local hospital, police said. Eastern Avenue was closed in both directions between Bonanza Road and the U.S. 95, according to RTC Southern Nevada. 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 KLAS. KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) Icy conditions are causing issues for drivers Tuesday morning, and law enforcement agencies are warning residents to avoid certain roads in East Tennessee. The following roads in the Smokies are closed due to snow and ice: Foothills Parkway East Foothills Parkway West between Chilhowee and Walland Fighting Creek Gap Road & Little River Road from Sugarlands to the Townsend Wye Wear Cove Gap Road from Line Springs Road to Metcalf Bottoms Lakeview Drive US 441/Newfound Gap Road between Gatlinburg and Cherokee The Maryville Police Department warned residents to avoid the following roads due to icy conditions: Brown School Road Sevierville Road E Lamar Alexander Parkway Tuckaleechee Pike Wilkinson Pike Bonnaroo announces 2025 artist lineup featuring Luke Combs, Olivia Rodrigo and Tyler, the Creator Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These areas are extremely icy and slick and are experiencing multiple crashes, MPD warned. Use caution this morning if you must drive. We have received reports of icy road conditions, especially on less traveled roads and bridges. Pellissippi Parkway in Blount County is also icy, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Transportation reported. The Blount County Sheriffs Office also urged caution on the following roads where accidents have been reported: Brown School Road Singleton Station Road East Lamar Alexander Parkway near Walland and Townsend East Broadway Avenue Hitch Road Tuckaleechee Pike at Grandview. Deputies are currently working several crashes this morning around Blount County due to hazardous road conditions, especially but not limited to the north end of the county, BCSO posted. If you must travel, please use caution this morning. The above list of hazardous road conditions is not exhaustive, and you could encounter icing on all roadways throughout the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knoxville to get $24.7M RAISE grant for pedestrian bridge The City of Alcoa wrote that crews were clearing areas with icy conditions. They asked drivers to leave room for crews to work. The North Tazewell Volunteer Fire Department said that the primary roads are in good condition but advised caution for secondary roads. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WKRN) Several law enforcement agencies across multiple counties responded to crashes Monday evening. Several crashes happened on Interstate 40, including an overturned vehicle at mile marker 198.6 reported at 7:11 p.m. Another multi-vehicle crash also happened at mile marker 200.8 at 7:40 p.m., according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). Tennessee School Closings and Delays: January 7, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Erin Zeigler with TDOT posted about a crash that shut down all of Interstate 840 West. Traffic was being diverted at mile marker 33.4 at Peytonsville Road then at Arno Road at exit 37. As of 9:38 p.m., the incident marker was lifted from TDOTs SmartWay map. Zeigler added TDOT crews treated several areas on Interstate 40, Interstate 65 and Interstate 840, encouraging drivers to use extra caution Monday night. The Franklin Police Department and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) responded to a crash involving eight vehicles Monday evening. Franklin police posted to social media about the crash shortly before 8 p.m., stating that Interstate 65 South has shut down south of the McEwen exit due to a traffic crash involving eight vehicles. The eight-vehicle crash on Interstate 65 South was not the only crash in Williamson County Monday night. At 7:35 p.m., TDOT reported a multi-vehicle crash closed the northbound entry ramp at mile marker 66. The agency reported another multi-car crash at 8:44 p.m. at mile marker 62.8, which blocked several lanes of traffic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 10:01 p.m., Franklin police posted that a salt truck was on its way to the crash site to ensure safe passage for drivers stuck in traffic. Authorities added once the road is salted, the stretch of highway would reopen. National Weather Service Nashville posted to social media that bridges, overpasses and secondary roads have become slick and icy with freezing temperatures. The Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT) said in a post crews are driving roadways and monitoring conditions to treat as needed. Franklin police added that nobody was seriously hurt as a result of the crash, but the interstate will be closed for an undetermined amount of time. Drivers have been advised to seek an alternate route. PHOTOS: Ice, sleet, storms, and snow Heres what we saw across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williamson County Fire Rescue posted to social media that roadways across Williamson County have iced over. Drivers were advised to stay home if possible and drive slowly if not possible. Specifically, the agency said North Berrys Chapel Road was very icy. Some Cheatham County residents received text alerts advising caution for those traveling along Highway 49 East from Ashland City to Pleasant View. News 2 has reached out to the THP for more information about the crash on Interstate 65 South. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Elderly residents are unlikely to reoffend and more costly to keep jailed, but few are eligible for an existing compassionate release program. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images) Criminal justice reform advocates and a state senator have proposed a new program that would allow elderly New Jersey inmates to seek early release on the basis of their advanced age, saying it would fill a gap the states compassionate release program left empty. The proposed geriatric release program would allow inmates aged 60 years or older who have served 20 years in prison to petition a Superior Court judge for early release, and a judge would be required to grant early release absent a finding the inmate is a danger to others or their release does not serve the interests of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not automatic. A court may consider a number of factors to assure public safety will be protected, and theres a process thats provided for prosecutors who are involved in the case, for the victims of crime, and really for the criminal justice system as a general matter to fully evaluate any given inmate, attorney Larry Lustberg said at a press conference in Trenton. Those convicted of murder could not lodge a petition for early release until they turn 62 and unless they have been in custody for at least 30 years. Those released would face five years of parole supervision, though the length of that supervised release could be reduced for good cause or physical incapacity. Judges would be permitted to consider an inmates age both at the time of the offense and the time of petition the seriousness of their offense, their behavior in prison, and a statement from the victim or the victims family, among other things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The geriatric release proposal, which is slated to be introduced by Sen. Brian Stack (D-Hudson), is substantially similar to a program proffered by a bill Sen. Raj Mukherji (D-Hudson) introduced in January. That bill has not advanced to a committee vote in either chamber. The sense that too many old people are being housed in our jails and prisons is one that's really sweeping the country. Attorney Larry Lustberg Lustberg and former Gov. Jim McGreevey, who is executive director of the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, said the bill has received some bipartisan interest and he hopes it would win broad support from both parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both versions mirror recommendations issued by the New Jersey Criminal Sentencing and Disposition Commission in a March 2023 report that notes individuals over the age of 60 are less likely than others to reoffend after release. Old people just dont recidivate. You wont be surprised to know that people who are released at the age of 60 and older almost never go back to prison, Lustberg said. A 2020 study found only 3% of inmates aged 55 or older nationwide were reincarcerated in the three years following their release, compared to 9% for all ages. Just 1% of elderly inmates initially imprisoned for violent offenses were reincarcerated, the study found, versus 9% for all age groups. Though New Jersey law already allows inmates who are terminally ill or physically incapable of committing a crime to seek early release, only a small number of individuals qualify for compassionate release, supporters of the bill said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overwhelmingly, the elderly will not meet that burden unless in the throes of a terminal disease with literally months to live, McGreevey said. Petitions for release could also turn on costs the state would bear as a result of continued incarceration. The proposals supporters hope the higher costs associated with older inmates could convince lawmakers to advance the legislation despite the past failures of similar bills. A 2014 study commissioned by the Florence V. Burden Foundation found annual incarceration costs for inmates aged 50 and older were roughly twice what they were for younger individuals. Older inmates are more likely to face medical problems, and those medical problems are more likely to be chronic in nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In New Jersey, costs for inmate medical care are typically borne by the facility that houses them meaning they are paid for by the state and state law usually prohibits the use of Medicaid funds to pay for their treatment. New Jersey faces billions of dollars in budget shortfalls in the coming fiscal years, and Gov. Phil Murphy has asked his departments to identify 5% cuts across the board for the fiscal year that begins July 1. Were in a time of fiscal difficulties, and so the imperative to save money will be a compelling one, Lustberg said. But leaving that aside, the sense that too many old people are being housed in our jails and prisons is one thats really sweeping the country. The Department of Correction said in 2024 that 8% of state inmates were over the age of 60. Thats about 1,000 people. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Hundreds of mourners gathered at the Carter Presidential Center on Monday night before President Jimmy Carters body is taken to Washington D.C. The center will be welcoming visitors who wish to pay their respects to Carter until 7 a.m. on Tuesday. More than 20,000 people have visited the center since Saturday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Each person who visited the center had the chance to go through the museum and write a note before spending time to pay their respects to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin Schreffler said he planned for years to pay his respects to Carter. He made the plans with his mother years ago. This is something we always knew we would do, he told Channel 2s Michael Doudna. She was born in Sumpter, Georgia and it brins a lot of pride and comfort. On Monday, Schreffler boarded one of 22 buses and walked through security so he could remember what Jimmy Carters life represented to him. Hope, courage, perseverance, he said. It was definitely rewarding and something I will always be thankful for, that I took the time to get here and spend those few minutes and show respect to Jimmy Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The center will remain open overnight until 7 a.m. You can spend as much time inside the center as you like, as well as explore the museum. If you just go to pay your respects to President Carter, the process takes about a half hour. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The CTA has stopped using its main account on the social media site X and a second account devoted to service alerts such as train delays and disruptions, a move that some social media users quickly blasted as a blow to transparency. The agency said it made the decision to suspend use of the two accounts on X, formerly known as Twitter, because changes to the site made the alerts less useful in real time. Posts no longer appear in followers timelines instantly, and posts with links are shown less, like service alerts with links for more details, agency officials said in a statement. The CTA characterized the social media platform as an unreliable middleman service and said it created lags and confusion in the service information it provided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent changes to the platform put riders at risk of being misinformed about real-time service updates, the agency officials said. But the move was quickly condemned by social media users, some of whom expressed frustration at having less communication or viewed the move as an attempt to limit information about service challenges, which have been a frequent complaint of riders in recent years. Public officials also joined in, including Chicago Ald. Andre Vasquez, a frequent CTA critic. He reiterated calls to replace CTA President Dorval Carter, a move he pushed for in spring 2024 when he drafted a resolution calling for the CTA leader to resign. Seems like Mayor Johnson is dormant when it comes to holding CTA President Dorval Carter accountable, he wrote. We need new leadership at CTA. The Johnson Administration pulled out all the stops to fire the CPS CEO, yet the CTA President is protected from critique. Thats not how you get. World class public transit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza said on the social media site the move was a bad decision. Wait, what??? Bad decision. @ctaalert should provide MORE transparency, not less, she wrote. Alerts here AND text/email updates. Shows zero touch & pulse on your customer base & reinforces the now standard practice of providing poor service. Lawmakers should demand they reverse course. State Rep. Kambium Kam Buckner, a transit advocate, contrasted the CTAs departure from X with the Philadelphia transit system, which recently updated its app. Philly innovates, Chicago regresses. he wrote. Riders deserve better. Check out CTA system updates and service alerts on My Space. Embarrassing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CTA said it continues to maintain accounts on other social media sites including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and BlueSky. The agency encouraged riders to subscribe to emails or texts for service alerts. A separate X account dedicated to the massive overhaul of the north end of the Red Line, @CTARPM, continues to operate because it is not used for real-time service information, agency officials said. The account will be used until the project is finished. CURRITUCK, N.C. (WAVY) Currituck County delayed a Monday night vote for a possible balloon ban as the full board was not present. Just last fall, balloon releases were almost banned along the entire Outer Banks. The ban was ultimately shot down in Currituck County in a 4-2 vote. The meeting is now expected to take place on Jan. 21 and Debbie Swick, the activist behind the calls for the bans, thinks this vote might stick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Swick has been on a quest to ban balloon releases throughout North Carolina. This is in response to how helium balloons can seriously harm the environment and marine life. Advocate plans to expand balloon release ban after its approval in Dare County [The balloons] dont go to heaven, and they impact us in a negative manner, Swick said. The Currituck County Commissioners who voted against the ban, citing concerns of government overreach. Swick said that since the vote, she has been talking to the commissioners who voted no, hoping to shed light on her reasoning for the ban. I dont want to see anybody get a ticket, Swick said. I dont want to see anybody get in trouble. Its about education. And I think when people are told, Hey, if you let that go, you can kill wildlife, I dont think that anybodys going to go, Woohoo, let me keep doing it.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the ban is enforced, a person caught releasing balloons would be fined $50 per-balloon. Advocates hope that the ban will actively deter people from releasing balloons, even though enforcing the law could prove to be a difficult task. Swick hopes her talks with the commissioners will get them to vote in favor of banning balloon releases. The vote will now take place on Jan. 21. 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. CLEVELAND (WJW) Every four years, hundreds of thousands of people head to Washington D.C. to witness history as the next President of the United States is sworn in. In less than two weeks, President-elect Donald Trump will take the oath of office becoming the 47th President on Jan. 20. 2 injured, propane leaking onto highway after tanker crash in Ashland County The National Security Special Event requires assistance from local law enforcement agencies across the country. The Cuyahoga County Sheriffs Department will be sending more than 20 deputies to increase safety and security. Those duties have already begun as some deputies are assisting with security and safety detail on the fourth anniversary of the January 6 Capitol riots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporting democracy, Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel said. This is something that obviously bipartisan and something that we had requested and approved through official channels before the election. Pretel said this is a high honor and a career-highlight for many who work law enforcement. These deputies are there to help secure (and) ensure democracy goes flawlessly when the change takes place, he said. Thats important to them. Thats a once in a lifetime. Obviously happens every four years. You look at the average career, 25 years. How many opportunities are there? Thats an important morale booster. But the most important part is that we are supporting democracy by doing that. Pretel said ensuring safety at large scale public events is more important now than its ever been in light of several recent terror attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The threat is always real, possibilities there, he said. We have to be on the right side of history by ensuring that we counter that threat by intelligence, visibility and action Pretel and his staff members took their own oath of office and duties on Monday at the Greater Cleveland Peace Officers Memorial on the corner of Lakeside Avenue and W. 3rd Street in Cleveland. Pretel said its important for his agency to support National Security Special Events because there will be a time when Cleveland or Cuyahoga County will need that same favor. Congress certifies Trumps election win despite weather threat Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said his deputies will be making a difference in the Nations Capital. Just to ensure that traffic control is what it should be, security, visibility, etc, he said. But the actual, inside the actual core is probably going to be units from Metropolitan Police and other local departments. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6A pair of Maine public school districts faced cybersecurity issues over the weekend, officials announced Monday. South Portland Public Schools took down its internet network Sunday after a breach threatened student data, the district said in a letter to parents and families. The decision came after the school department's cybersecurity service detected a network break over the weekend. Director of technology Andy Wallace said in a letter sent Monday morning that the decision was made to protect "student and other data." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have been actively working on a solution, and are on track to fully restoring internet access as quickly and safely as possible," Wallace wrote. Schools were open as scheduled Monday because all phone and security systems were operational. Wallace said the ReachMyTeach platform is the most reliable way for parents to contact schools and teachers on Monday. Also over the weekend, an email address belonging to a student at MSAD 51, which includes Cumberland and North Yarmouth, was hacked and used in an attempted phishing scam by "an unknown user outside the US," Superintendent Jeff Porter said in a letter to families. The unauthorized user sent an email to roughly 1,400 district accounts, though many messages were filtered as spam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The email included a link regarding a remote job offer and requests for personal information, including phone number and private email addresses, Porter said. "Due to this being a possible attempt to connect with students online, for safety purposes this has been referred to the Cumberland Police Department," he said. This story will be updated. Copy the Story Link TerrorGPT Las Vegas police officials have revealed that active duty Green Beret soldier Matthew Livelsberger, who fatally shot himself and blew up a rented Tesla Cybertruck just outside the Trump Towers hotel in Las Vegas last week, used generative AI including OpenAI's ChatGPT to plan his attack. As the Associated Press reports, a review of Livelsbergers queries on ChatGPT suggests he was not only researching explosive targets, but was also studying the speed of bullets, how far they would travel, and even whether fireworks were legal in Arizona (they are, but only 27 days of the year). It's a weird new development and one that shows, yet again, that every new technology is eventually subsumed into the darkest corners of society for violent and twisted purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is the first incident that Im aware of on US soil where ChatGPT is utilized to help an individual build a particular device," said Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department sheriff Kevin McMahill during a press conference. "Its a concerning moment." Wake Up OpenAI expressed regret and said the company was cooperating with the investigation. "We are saddened by this incident and committed to seeing AI tools used responsibly," a spokesperson told us. "Our models are designed to refuse harmful instructions and minimize harmful content. In this case, ChatGPT responded with information already publicly available on the internet and provided warnings against harmful or illegal activities. We're working with law enforcement to support their investigation." The Afghanistan veteran shot himself with a handgun before blowing up the Cybertruck using improvised explosives and fireworks. He didn't take the lives of any bystanders, but injured seven people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As far as a motive is concerned, Livelsberger likely was "struggling with PTSD and other issues," as FBI special agent Spencer Evans told reporters. Livelsberger also made bizarre comments about "Chinese" drones with "gravitic propulsion systems" in a widely circulating email that officials believe was written by him. He also wrote in a note that the US was "terminally ill and headed toward collapse" and that he intended the attack to be a "wake up call." He also vowed to "cleanse" his mind "of the brothers Ive lost and relieve myself of the burden of the lives I took." Interestingly, he wrote in his note that he had no ill will towards Tesla CEO Elon Musk and that the US needs to "rally around" the entrepreneur and president-elect Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apart from plenty of evidence suggesting Livelsberger was a deeply troubled individual, his use of ChatGPT stands out. It's unclear whether he managed to get the tool to spit out information on specifically illegal activities, such as how to build an explosive. But given the sorry state of guardrails and how easily they're circumvented, it's certainly not impossible so we'll be watching with interest. Updated with comment from OpenAI. More on the attack: The Cybertruck Bomber Seems to Have Made Strange Claims About the Mysterious Drone Sightings GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Tuesday on the Daily 8, were looking at warnings from local law enforcement agencies, South Havens lifeguard plans, Mel Trotter extending its coat drive and more. You can watch the full Daily 8 for Jan. 7, 2025, in the video player above or check out any of the stories mentioned below: Each weekday, the Daily 8 brings you the top eight stories we are keeping an eye on in and around West Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Join us again Wednesday for the Daily 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 WOODTV.com. As Jon Stewart returned to The Daily Show on Monday, he had some advice for the countrys radicalized men in the wake of recent attacks. The comedian offered a plea to all the would-be terrorists out there, noting that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, Matthew Livelsberger and Luigi Mangione were all normal-seeming people who suffered a setback in their life before carrying out their attacks. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hey girl, down on your luck? he said to the camera. Girlfriend left you, jobs a dead end, spending a lot of time watching whatever YouTube autoplay is showing you, and now you got some ideas. How about you dont kill everybody? Just do what everybody else does in that situation; get a fin podcast. That way, nobody dies. You get a podcast, nobody dies, you can still terrorize people, and no I do not want to be on it. Stewarts latest episode comes after U.S. Army veteran and Texas native Jabbar was identified as the individual who drove a Ford pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans French Quarter on New Years Day, killing 15 people and injuring more than 30. On the same day, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside a Trump hotel in Las Vegas, planned as a wakeup call by Green Beret and Trump supported Livelsberger, who died in the explosion. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to murder and terror charges after he was accused of killing United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson last month. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. As President-elect Donald Trump continues to voice his renewed interest in purchasing Greenland as a territory of the United States, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen shared a message for him: Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders. Greenland is not for sale, Frederiksen said Tuesday on Danish television, according to the BBCand Politico EU. Her comments landed the same day Donald Trump Jr. arrived on the Arctic island in the familys branded jet for a brief, private visit. On social media, the president-elect referred to his eldest son, and those accompanying him, as his representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frederiksens comments echoed those made by Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede after Donald Trump revived his 2019 idea to buy the land in a statement announcing his pick for ambassador to Denmark. Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom, Egede said last month. The frigid island has been a territory of Denmark for hundreds of years, gaining rights to home rule in the 20th century. Trump said in December that 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 He refused to rule out using military force to take control of the island during a lengthy, rambling press conference Tuesday. An independence movement in Greenland has led to greater degrees of autonomy over the past several decades for residents, who are primarily Inuit. Egede reportedly hinted last week that a referendum on independence from Denmark could be held as early as April of this year. Donald Trump Jr.s plane landed in Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. EMIL STACH via Getty Images Trumps interest in Greenland stems from its mineral-rich deposits and strategic position between the U.S., Russia and China. The U.S. already operates a military base on the island to detect missiles headed for North America. Melting sea ice may also open up new routes for international trade as the climate crisis worsens. Frederiksen noted that while selling off the territory may be a non-starter, U.S. investment in Greenland is more than welcome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a clear interest that its the U.S. that plays a large role in that region, and not, for example, Russia, she said, according to Bloomberg. Trump Jr. shared scenes from his visit on Instagram. This is the founder, he said, pointing to a statue of Hans Egede, an 18th-century missionary who established the capital city of Nuuk. Just incredible scenery. Super cool stuff. In another video, right-wing activist Charlie Kirk holds the camera as he pans to show Trump Jr. and a cadre of young men. They love America. They love Trump. They want to utilize their resources, Trump Jr. said of the people he apparently met, speaking onboard the family jet before takeoff. Related... Jan. 7A Danville man has been arrested and charged with First Degree Murder in the December shooting death of Joseph Jones. Jones, 35, of Danville, was found deceased at the intersection of Collett and Williams Streets at 11 p.m. Dec. 21, 2024. "The Vermilion County State's Attorney's Office assisted the Danville Police Department in obtaining an arrest warrant for the charge of First Degree murder on 28-year-old Derrell L. Boston of Danville. DPD gathered evidence suggesting Boston was a suspect in the death of Joseph Jones," DPD Deputy Chief Terry McCord said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Jan. 4, at about 1 a.m., DPD officers witnessed Boston sitting in a vehicle at a business in the 1200 block of North Bowman Ave. He was arrested and transported to the Public Safety Building. If anyone has further information contact the Danville Police Department at 217-431-2250, contact Vermilion County Crimestoppers at vccrimstoppers.org, use the P3 TIPS app. or call anonymously to 217-446-TIPS. Because this is an ongoing investigation, no further information will be released on this incident. The Danville Police Department reminds the public that all arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) On Thursday, January 2, 2025, Pastor David Moncrief, Jr., 74, heard the call of the Father as He said Well done, good and faithful servant and with his family at his bedside, he peacefully answered the call, as his transportation had arrived to take him home. He always said he made his reservation and got his confirmation, and all he had to do was wait on his transportation. I waited patiently upon the Lord and He inclined unto me and heard my cry and brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay and set my feet upon a rock and established my goings; and He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God, many shall see it and fear and shall trust in the Lord. Psalms 40:1-3 was one of his favorite scripture readings. Find obituaries from your high school Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pastor David (Coon) Moncrief, Jr. was born January 12, 1950, in Youngstown, Ohio, the third of ten children born to Fannie Hampton Moncrief and David Moncrief, Sr. He was a 1968 graduate of North High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1969 and was honorably discharged in 1971 and transferred to the Naval Reserves where he served until 1975. He attended Youngstown State University where he took some classes in Criminal Justice after his discharge from the Navy before going to work. He was employed for many years at Youngstown Steel Door until they closed. He then became known to folks all over Mahoning County when he was employed by Home Corp as the WIC/Milkman for many years until WIC deliveries were discontinued. He then went to work for Gateways to Better Living servicing clients until his retirement around 2006. Those who didnt know him as the milkman probably met him through his lawn care service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David attended Triedstone Missionary Baptist all of his life and served as a Sunday School teacher and Deacon before being ordained as a minister in 1992. He was called as Pastor of Triedstone in July of 2006. He celebrated his 18th anniversary this past July. Pastor Moncrief was a dedicated leader of Triedstone, and did not allow his physical limitations in the past few years to keep him from doing what he loved best which was preaching and teaching. He was also very passionate about his role as past president of the International Brotherhood of Christian Men and as a member of the Promise Keepers mens group which was instrumental in organizing the first Mens Rally in the Valley held at the Covelli Center in May 2008. David leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 30 years, the former Cathy Lynn Gilliam of Youngstown; son, LaShawn (Jenda) Moncrief of Hiram, Georgia; daughter, LaTonya Moncrief-Young of Austell, Georgia and their mother, Joyce Johnson-Parks; daughter, Shannon Moncrief of Youngstown and her mother, Velma Blair-Crawley; a stepdaughter, Charia Reid of New Jersey; stepson, Michael Reid of Florida; 12 grandchildren, Mya Moncrief, Mariah Moncrief and David Mason Moncrief, of Georgia, Kaylyn Young, Kameron Young and Khaleb Young, of Georgia, Jaiden Hooker of Youngstown, Jyiqualynn, KaVaun and Cirreon Carter and Zionnah and Zariah Barton, of New Jersey; two sisters, Catherine Atterberry of Campbell, Ohio and Freda (Jerome) Williams of Youngstown, Ohio; brother, Pellum Moncrief of Youngstown and sister-in-law, Diane Moncrief of Youngstown and host of cousins, nieces, nephews and members of the Triedstone family and friends. Greeting him at Heavens gate were his parents, David and Fannie Moncrief; sister and brother-in-law, Bernice and James Rease; sister, Doris Gordon; brothers, Eddie, Michael, Kenneth and Calvin (Teddy) Moncrief and a special niece, Melanie Martin. Calling hours will be Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 10:00 11:00 a.m. at the Triedstone Missionary Baptist Church, 2045 Jacobs Road, Youngstown, OH 44505. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ministry of Comfort and Compassion entrusted to the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home, 1951 McGuffey Road, Youngstown, OH 44505. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev David Moncrief, Jr., please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Wednesday, January 8 at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7Federal offices, including the USPS, will be closed Thursday, Jan. 9. The day has been declared a national day of mourning by President Joe Biden following the death of former President Jimmy Carter. Carter's funeral will be Thursday at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. Locally, city and county offices will be open. Mail delivery of Commercial-News will be delayed one day due to the closure of the USPS. Digital copies will be available online Jan. 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because the day is not a national holiday, businesses and organizations are not required to close. The last national day of mourning was in honor of former President Geroge H. W. Bush in December 2018. Rep. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican, prefiled a bill that would eradicate daylight saving time in Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA A Kansas legislator renewed attempts to rid the state of daylight saving time under a bill filed ahead of the states 2025 legislative session, which begins later this month. Senate Bill 1, which was prefiled Friday, seeks to exempt Kansas from participating in the national practice of switching clocks back an hour every November and forward again every March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen.-elect Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican who was elected to the Senate in November after serving a term in the House, is sponsoring the bill that would create year-round standard time beginning November 2025. Every year I get asked by constituents why the state doesnt do something about switching clocks back and forth, Titus said. Most often I hear from folks that they dont really care if we are on daylight saving or standard time, they just want to keep it consistent throughout the year. Recent attempts to put an end to the time changes at state and federal levels have failed. The last attempt in Kansas was in 2021 when Rep. Shannon Francis, a Republican from Liberal, drafted a resolution asking Congress to eradicate standard time and stick with daylight time year-round. Only Arizona, Hawaii and the U.S.s unincorporated territories are exempt from the switch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, the U.S. Senate passed a bill that wouldve made daylight saving time permanent, but the U.S. House declined to take it up. Despite the U.S. Houses resistance, Titus said, it shows there is popular support to at least talk about making a change. A 2021 AP-NORC poll found that 75% of Americans want to stop switching their clocks, and studies have shown switching clocks can be detrimental to sleep habits and overall health. When I compared the arguments for daylight saving time and standard time, the primary benefit of daylight saving time was increased consumer spending (because there is more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities) compared to the increased health benefits of standard time with more daylight in the morning Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In comparing year-round daylight saving time to standard time, Titus found increased consumer spending was the primary benefit because of more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities. More daylight in the morning with year-round standard time, on the other hand, can lead to health benefits, he said. For me, it was a no-brainer to prioritize the health of Kansans, Titus said. President-elect Donald Trump vowed last month in a post to social media platform X that the Republican Party would attempt to eliminate daylight saving time, calling it inconvenient and costly. Titus bill provides for the possibility of Congress taking its own action. His is the only Senate bill to be prefiled so far. The primary issue is fairly straightforward, so I thought it was best to get the conversation started before committee calendars are filled up with other topics, he said. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A nun born in Dayton will soon be celebrated in Rome. Sister Dorothy Stang is considered a modern-day martyr by the Catholic Church following her assassination in 2005. Sister Dorothy was killed in Brazil, where she efforted to protect the rainforests and the people living there. She was 73 years old. On Jan. 5, a sweater of hers along with a cross received a blessing from a convent that resides north of Cincinnati. Those same items will soon be an Italy as they will be on display for public viewing at the Sanctuary for New Martyrs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 NEWS recently spoke with Madalyn Richardson, Sister Dorothys great-niece, about her familys legacy. I think thats super important for people to realize, like, use her story every single day in your life. Like to live and just be grateful and gracious to everybody that you meet, Richardson said. And I think even if youre not on that same path, like, you can help somebody else, which can also in the end help you. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7State Rep. Desiree Tims took her oath to represent much of the city of Dayton and Trotwood in the Ohio General Assembly on a snowy Monday in Columbus. Tims is the only newly elected lawmaker from Montgomery County taking office this year. She is also the only Democratic state representative in the Dayton region and joins a statehouse dominated by Republican supermajorities in both chambers. "I am honored to have the opportunity to represent the residents of House District 38," Tims told this news outlet Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tims said she used Monday's swearing in ceremony as an opportunity to meet with colleagues and connect on shared opportunities and priorities. "My priorities will continue to be housing, particularly for the Dayton area," Tims said. "I'm also excited about the 3C line and so I look forward to championing opportunities for transportation infrastructure for our community and really fighting for what the people of Dayton, Trotwood and people from around the community really need from Columbus." Through various political endeavors, Tims enters the Ohio House of Representatives with a platform and name recognition more established than many of her freshman colleagues. She's spent years directing Innovation Ohio, a think tank focused on gun safety, education, gender equity, paid leave and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tims told this outlet last year that her top priorities include addressing the rising cost of housing, corporate landlords and the general lack of housing supply; while fighting for more funds in public schools. In 2020, she staged a congressional campaign against longtime Congressman Rep. Mike Turner, R-Dayton, but was handily defeated by the incumbent. Tims followed the campaign with her successful 2024 run to represent Dayton in the Ohio House, broadly defeating Democratic opponent Dayton Unit NAACP President Derrick Foward before running unopposed in the November election. Much of Tims' political work has occurred in Washington, D.C., where she staffed for then-President Barack Obama, Ohio's former U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, and New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. It was also in D.C. where Tims received a law degree from Georgetown University. Tims replaces former Rep. Willis Blackshear, Jr., D-Dayton, who successfully took advantage of a newly Democratic-leaning Ohio Senate district and was elected to the state's higher chamber in November. He will continue representing Dayton and much of Montgomery County in the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ------ 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 pair of pandas at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., played in powder after the region received several inches of snow overnight. Tumbling in a winter wonderland! the National Zoo captioned a video shared on the social platform X. The video showed clips of pandas Bao Li and Qing Baos outdoor habitat at the zoo, where they jumped, rolled and played in the snow. Flakes stuck to their fur as the bears frolicked and somersaulted, the zoo wrote. It was paws-itively the panda *snowment* of our dreams! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The panda pair will make their public debut Friday, Jan. 24, marking will mark the long-awaited return of the species to the zoo. It was reported late last year that the pair of 3-year-old pandas left southwestern China and arrived in Washington. The National Zoos previous three giant pandas left Washington in late 2023, ending a years-long Panda Diplomacy agreement between the U.S. and China. To the joy of D.C. residents and panda-lovers alike, the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute announced in May that pandas would be returning to the zoo for research purposes. Pandas were pulled from several other Western zoos after agreements expired, and some foreign policy experts noted it could be indicative of tensions between Beijing and Western governments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The return of the two pandas to the National Zoo was met with much excitement. The zoo periodically shares updates about the pandas as they await their public debut. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An investigation is underway after a man was struck and killed by a pickup truck in New Hampshire Monday night. The man was traveling down Route 130, also known as Pepperell Road, when he was hit and thrown 20 yards down the road after being hit by the truck, according to Brookline Police Chief William Quigley. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Chief Quigley. The road was closed for several hours as officials investigated the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the crash remains under investigation and it is unknown if there will be any charges levied against the driver of the pick-up. The victims name has not been released. 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 As a major winter storm moved across multiple states from the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic, four people have died, dozens injured and many more have been stranded or lost power. The storm started Saturday and traveled 1,300 miles, dumping several inches of snow as it went. Storm warnings and winter alerts stretched from Illinois to southern New Jersey and covered 62 million people, per NBC. Because of the storm multiple states including Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland declared states of emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington, D.C., was also declared to be in a state of emergency after receiving more than 5 inches of snow, per CNN. Central Kansas received 18 inches of snow while upstate New York saw over 6 feet of snow in some parts, according to NBC. The storm should be moved out of the U.S. by Monday evening. An Amazon truck is stuck on a street during a winter storm, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Cincinnati. | Joshua A. Bickel How the storm has affected people Blizzard warnings were issued in Kansas over the weekend, and three people died in car crashes throughout the state. At least one other person and over 30 people were injured in Missouri, per NPR. Snow and ice caused major highways to be shut down in multiple states. In Missouri there were at least 600 motorists stranded by extreme conditions, according to CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across Virginia, Indiana, Kansas and Kentucky hundreds of car crashes were caused by the storm conditions. The National Guard was deployed to help motorists stranded on major roads in Kansas, Nebraska and Indiana. On Monday, over 300,000 people from Missouri to Virginia were without power, with power lines taken down by thick ice, snow and powerful winds, per CNN. There is no estimate yet for when the power will be back for those without it. Major winter storm disrupts multiple types of travel The storm has disrupted multiple types of travel with many flights affected over the weekend. As of Monday afternoon there were more than 7,000 flights into and out of the U.S. that were delayed of canceled due to the storm, per The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rail travel has also been disrupted by the storm, dozens of Amtrak trains in the northeast corridor and other affected states have been canceled. There have also been dangerous driving conditions in the many of the affected states. More cold coming on Tuesday On Tuesday, an Arctic blast will bring dangerously low temperatures into the areas just hit by the storm. By Tuesday it will lock in snow and ice and create life-threatening conditions for those without power who dont have access to heat, per CNN. Paychex, Inc. announced Tuesday it has reached a deal to acquire Norwood-based Paycor for $4.1 billion. Paycor, the Greater Cincinnati-based human resources software company whose name adorns the Bengals stadium, was first reported to be in "advanced talks to be acquired by the Rochester, New York rival on Sunday by Bloomberg. Im excited to welcome Paycor to the Paychex family, said John Gibson, CEO of the Rochester, New York-based company, in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Paychex is paying $22.50 for each share of Paycor in an all-cash deal expected to close by the first half of this year. "We are very excited to be joining Paychex for the next phase of our journey," said Paycor CEO Raul Villar Jr., in a statement. The acquisition announcement didn't address the fate of Paycor's presence in Cincinnati: 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. 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. Paycor employs 2,900 workers. Advertisement Advertisement Paychex didn't detail potential cuts or layoffs in the deal announcement but did disclose "cost synergies in excess of $80 million in the near-term," indicating some cutting to save money. But in his prepared remarks, Gibson indicated the deal was more about addition, saying it was "highly complementary." "(The acquisition) it will enhance our capabilities ... broaden our suite of AI-driven HR technology capabilities, and provide new channels for sustained long-term growth," Gibson said. "Our customers will benefit from an expanded suite of technology and advisory solutions." This story was updated to add a video. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Paychex has agreed to acquire Paycor for $4.1B CENTER, Neb. (KCAU) The man accused of the shooting deaths of two people in Bloomfield, Neb. in early 2024 could still face the death penalty after a judges order. On Monday, a district judge found that the arguments that Alias Reeds lawyers presented failed to meet the burden to show that the states death penalty statures would be unconstitutional. Norfolk man dies in pickup crash in rural Nebraska Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each of the grounds presented by the defendant have been previously addressed by the Nebraska Supreme Court; therefore, the Court overrules the defendants motion, the court order stated. After state prosecutors said they would be seeking the death penalty against Reed in October 2024, Reeds lawyer had filed a motion to quash the death penalty, declaring sections of it unconstitutional. Reed is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of using a firearm to commit a felony, He is accused of the shooting deaths of Curtis Strom, 77, and William Reffett, 49 on Feb. 20, 2024. Court documents stated Reed went to Curts Lanes and Dining bowling alley in Bloomfield with the intentions of killing Will and Curt on that Feb. 20 morning. He allegedly shot both and then made his way to his girlfriends parents house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reeds girlfriend, Kaylyne Sweazy, 28, went with Reed to dispose of the shotgun on a gravel road outside Center, Nebraska, documents state. Authorities later found the gun after Sweazy told investigators the exact location. First US bird flu death reported in Louisiana, health officials say Sweazy has also been charged with tampering with physical evidence and accessory to a felony. She pleaded not guilty to both charges. In late September, her defense lawyer told the court he may request a change of venue. Her case is currently being heard in Knox County, but the judge ordered on Dec. 31, 2024 that a supplemental questionnaire be sent to determine if she could receive a fair trial there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An arraignment for Reed is scheduled for the morning of Jan. 28. To read previous coverage of the case, 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Death Wish An Arizona man who's been on death row for nearly two decades has an unusual request for the state's highest court: to, essentially, get it over with already. Generally speaking, attorneys for death row inmates try to delay their executions as long as possible. But as the Associated Press reports, 53-year-old Aaron Gunches has asked the state's Supreme Court to expedite his "long overdue" execution. Back in 2004, Gunches pleaded guilty to the 2002 murder of Ted Price, his then-girlfriend's ex-husband who had been in a violent altercation with the woman. First sentenced to capital punishment in 2008, the man's initial death sentence was tossed in 2010 over procedural errors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was ultimately re-sentenced to death in 2013 and first began seeking his own death warrant in November 2022 just after the state's now-attorney general, Kris Mayes, was elected and vowed alongside now-Gov. Katie Hobbs to suspend executions pending a review of the state's death penalty. The political pair, both Democrats, had good reason to do so. Back in 2014, one man's death by lethal injection was botched so significantly that it took nearly two hours to finish, and onlookers said they heard the condemned gasp and snort a horrifying 600 times during the procedure. Additionally, the state's correctional agency spent taxpayer money to procure ingredients for cyanide gas, which the Nazis used in their concentration camp gas chambers during the Holocaust. Bad Reviews As Fox 10 Phoenix reported back in November, Hobbs and Mayes' death penalty review ultimately fell apart after David Dunkin, the retired judge in charge of it, offered a bunch of strange recommendations. "You recommend that [Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry] conduct executions by firing squad (a method not currently authorized by Arizona law)," a letter from the governor to Dunkin read, "despite the Executive Orders direction to focus on procurement, protocols, and procedures related to carrying out an execution under existing law." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With all that context in the rearview, the state AG announced back at the end of November that it would be seeking death warrants again, including for Gunches. According to the AP, Hobbs' office says that the only roadblock between the man and his desired destruction now is the testing of the pentobarbital that will be used for his lethal injection. Still, it remains unclear when he'll finally get his wish and after waiting that long, it seems clear that Gunches is ready to go. More on death sentences: Scientists Simulate Alien Civilizations, Find They Keep Dying From Climate Change The number of dead from the severe earthquake in the region around Mount Everest rose to 95 on Tuesday, China's state news agency Xinhua reported as more bodies were recovered. A further 130 people were injured by the quake in the Tibet autonomous region of China, the agency reported in the afternoon. Powerful tremors occurred in Dingri County, which lies on the north side of Mount Everest and about 400 kilometres west of the Tibetan capital Lhasa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Xinhua, around 6,900 people live around 20 kilometres from the epicentre. According to official figures, Dingri County has a population of 61,000. The earthquake, which US experts said had 7.1 magnitude and 6.8 according to Chinese authorities, was also felt in Nepal and northern India. The Himalayan Times reported that people in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu and other parts of the country took to the streets in fear of their houses collapsing. It was initially unclear whether people were also injured here. It's the last chapter for Pages Bookshop in Detroit's historic North Rosedale Park. After a decade run, the independent bookstore is closing its doors. Owner Susan Murphy announced in an email this week that she's retiring at the end of the month, and so is 10-year-old Pip, the bookstore's resident cat. Pages Bookshop one of Detroit's dozen or so indie bookstores began as a popup in 2014 and then opened its brick and mortar location the following year along Grand River Avenue. Since then, Murphy has been on a mission to expose people to books and authors. She feels as though she's done just that. Pages Bookshop owner Susan Murphy, pictured in 2022 said she's retiring at the end of January, and so is 10-year-old Pip, the bookstore's resident cat. "I love my customers. I love this neighborhood," Murphy, 68 of Detroit, told the Free Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murphy picks every book that stocks the shelves of Pages Bookshop, ranging from fiction and history to political science and biographies. The neighborhood has consistently supported her, she said, showing up for events and shopping during Christmas. More: 6 independent metro Detroit bookstores to visit this holiday season "I am overwhelmed with gratitude to the community of readers that formed around Pages Bookshop. This community will be what I will miss most about bookselling," she said in an email. "Ive come to know you and your families. You've told me about births, deaths, weddings, and celebrations and all the newsy things in between. I will truly miss your visits to the store. Thank you for ten years of support and including Pages Bookshop in your life!" Murphy said she is ready for retirement. Running a bookstore is a lot of work and she's looking forward to spending time with her family and traveling with her husband. Meanwhile, Pip the black-and-white cat that's been living among the shelves of Pages Bookshop for about eight years, greeting customers and sleeping in her chair during events will move into Murphy's home. Pip, 7, rolls around at Pages Bookshop in Detroit on Monday, Feb. 28, 2022. Pages Bookshop is scheduled to close Jan. 31 unless someone purchase the store, Murphy said. She leases the space from the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corp. Starting Wednesday, everything in the store will be 25% off. Murphy will contact customers who have orders on books with publication dates past Jan. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Address and hours: 19560 Grand River Ave., Detroit; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Contact Nushrat Rahman: nrahman@freepress.com. Follow her on X: @NushratR. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Pages Bookshop in Detroit set to close Jan. 31 unless a buyer is found MONTEREY, Mass. (WWLP) A deer found in distress on a frozen lake in Berkshire County was rescued by first responders Tuesday morning. Crews from the Monterey Fire Department conducted an ice rescue of a deer that was found stranded on Lake Buel. Once the deer was helped off the ice, it entered a wooded area and the fire department reported that it appeared healthy and relieved. Thirty cats seek loving homes after being rescued from Massachusetts home PHOTOS: Deer rescue on Lake Buel Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Monterey Police Department Massachusetts Environmental Police and New Marlborough Police assisted in the rescue. MAP: Lake Buel 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. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Deming Police Department (DPD) is asking for the publics help in locating a missing 35-year-old man. David Tidey, 35, was last known to be on foot in the Deming, New Mexico area. He was wearing a gray shirt and blue pants, New Mexico State Police (NMSP) said in a news release. NMSP said Tidey is described as 5-foot-5 tall, weighs 165 pounds, and has shaved hair and brown eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DPD has reason to believe that Tidey is in danger if he is not located. If you know the whereabouts of Tidey, contact the Deming Police Department at (575) 546-0354, or dial 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Four years after she found herself just 20 feet away from a viable pipe bomb amid the Capitol riot as her victory as vice president was to be certified, Kamala Harris stood on the dais in the House of Representatives next to one of the men who battled to overturn that election for Donald Trump. Harris was a California senator on January 6, 2021 preparing to step up as second-in-command to Joe Biden while Mike Johnson, a backbencher Republican congressman from Louisiana, fought to keep Trump in the White House. But Monday the two of them stood side-by-side in front of a joint session of Congress, Johnson having risen to speaker of the House and Harris defeated by Trump in the race to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I did what I have done my entire career, which is take seriously the oath I have taken many times to defend the Constitution of the United States, which included today performing my constitutional duties to ensure that the people of America will have their votes counted, that those votes matter, she said. I do believe very strongly that Americas democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it. Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland led the impeachment of Trump after January 6. He did so in the shadow of his son Tommys suicide. (Getty Images) Harris, who will leave her job in two weeks, has spent the last days welcoming Republicans as they come into power as part of her official duties as president of the Senate. JD Vance, the Republican senator from Ohio who will take her job, has watched her from the audience. Trump chose Vance as his running mate instead of his one-time vice president Mike Pence, who refused to overturn the election results four years ago. Last Friday, Harris swore in Republican Senators Josh Hawley of Missouri and Ted Cruz of Texas, who both led the efforts to object to election results when Biden won. Harris isnt the only Democrat making the best of the day. Democrats of all stripes have attempted to be gracious even in their defeat to show that they differ wildly from their Republican colleagues who tried to overturn the election because they were unhappy with the results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Harris swore in senators on Friday, Johnson scrambled to round up votes to keep his speakers gavel. Afterward, Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries mentioned how Trump won the election. That elicited applause from House Republicans, which led to Jeffries responding in kind. Its ok, there are no election deniers on our side, Jeffries assured them. And indeed, Jeffries and the rest of the Democratic caucus did not object. But that did not mean their emotions were any less raw. Four years ago, Jeffries, along with Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell of California, Colin Allred of Texas and Ruben Gallego of Arizona led a blockade to protect their colleagues as rioters began to storm the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Gallego is a senator, having pulled in people who also voted for Trump in November. He has said he feared on January 6, 2021, that he might have to stab a rioter to survive. I wish four years ago, President Trump and his supporters would have shown the class that Vice President Harris and her supporters did in certifying the election and having a safe passage of democracy, Gallego told The Independent. It didn't happen then. But I think we're setting an example, and hopefully, going in the future it will set further examples for other parties when they win or lose elections. When Gallego was sworn in, his son Michael told Harris he was sorry she did not win the presidency, which led Harris to comfort the younger Gallego, saying: No, were not defeated. Vice President Kamala Harris reaches out to comfort Michael Gallego, son of Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego after he expressed his regret that Harris lost the presidential election during a ceremonial swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol last Friday. (Alex Wong/Getty Images) Gallego is joined by a handful of his other colleagues from the House who earned a promotion to the Senate. Four years ago, Elissa Slotkin, a Democrat from Michigan, was trying to get to the House floor when she heard a bang, which she thought was a crowd-control device, but turned out to be the gunshot that killed Ashli Babbitt as she sought to force her way into the Speakers lobby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hauled ass back to my office and barricaded myself in my office, Slotkin told The Independent. So I've actually never seen an official certification of an election. After the riot then, the House and Senate reconvened to certify the election in the dead of night. But this time, the certification process went smoothly and lasted less than an hour. It's the same thing we teach second graders when they play tee ball: You respect the winner and you shake hands, Slotkin told The Independent. Like Gallego, Slotkin won her race in a state that Trump won. The January 6 riot eventually led to Trumps second impeachment. Representative Raskin served as the lead impeachment manager. That January 6 was an intensely personal day for him, given he had just lost his son Tommy to suicide. His daughter Tabitha and Hank, his son-in-law married to his other daughter, were both at the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite Raskins impeachment trial in the Senate, only seven Republicans voted to convict Trump. One of them, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, fist-bumped Vance when Mondays certification process ended. It's a day of mixed emotion for me. I can feel proud that we're acting as constitutional patriots, and this is exactly what the peaceful transfer of power should look like, Raskin told The Independent, though he questioned why people needed to applaud during the process. It was a peaceful and uneventful and nonviolent transfer of power, he noted. But it's undoubtedly hard for any of us to be up there without thinking about what happened four years ago when there was an attempt at a backstage political coup with coercive pressure on the vice president and insurrectionary mob violence unleashed against us on that day. He also warned: We won't know until Trump's party loses an election whether they're actually willing to accept the constitutional process as it's supposed to work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Republicans, including those who objected to Trumps actions, opposed his impeachment. But Kevin McCarthy, then the House minority leader, said that Trump bore responsibility for the insurrection, while Mitch McConnell, then the Republican leader of the Senate, said that the people who stormed this building believed they were acting on the wishes and instructions of their president. But its the diehard Trump loyalists who are on the ascendancy. Rep. Andy Kim, D-N.J., cleaned up debris and trash strewn across the floor in the early morning hours of Thursday. In November, he became New Jerseys senator. (AP) After the attempt by Trumps supporters to swarm the Capitol in hopes of changing the election results ended, Andy Kim, then a Democratic representative from New Jersey, cleaned up the trash that the rioters had left around the damaged Capitol. Four years later, Kim walked around the building and remembered that day. It reminds me is just the deep challenges that we're facing, he said. It wasn't just about Trump, isn't just whos in the Oval Office. It's a deeper challenge that we face as a country right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats, meanwhile, have sought to show that they are willing to take out their own trash. In 2023, Kim challenged Bob Menendez, the Democratic New Jersey senator who faced a federal indictment for a corruption investigation. Menendez resigned after he was convicted. In November, Kim won his Senate race. Platform supply vessels battle the blazing remnants of the offshore oil rig Deepwater Horizon in the infamous 2010 BP oil spill. The explosion killed 11 rig workers and spewed 210 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico. (Photo by U.S. Coast Guard) Florida Democrats are hailing President Joe Bidens announcement on Monday that he will permanently ban future offshore oil and gas drilling off of Floridas Gulf Coast, a long contentious issue that has traditionally bound members of both political parties from the state in opposition. State Republicans were conspicuously quiet, however, perhaps deferring to President-elect Donald Trump, who himself imposed a drilling ban during his first term. Kathy Castor via U.S. House Maxwell Frost via U.S. House U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor and Maxwell Frost provided statements or spoke directly to the Phoenix about their reaction to Bidens statement that he was taking action to permanently protect both the countrys East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Alaskas Northern Bering sea from oil and natural gas drilling and the harm it causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clean water and clean beaches are central to Floridas healthy environment, economy and way of life. Floridians voted in 2018 to prohibit oil drilling in state waters (only nine miles offshore), but oil and gas companies still had their eyes on federal waters in the eastern Gulf, Tampa Bay area Democratic Rep. Kathy Castor said in a written statement. I ran for Congress to champion permanent coastal protections and to keep oil drilling away from Florida, so I am thrilled that President Joe Biden answered our call to ban drilling off the Florida Gulf Coast and thereby safeguard our communities, fishing and tourism economies. Castor co-sponsored a legislative proposal with Sarasota Republican Rep. Vern Buchanan in 2023 to make permanent an existing moratorium on oil drilling off Floridas coasts that was scheduled to expire in 2032. Buchanans aides said they would attempt to provide comment from the congressman but nothing had come by the time this story was published. Advocates note how the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill led to major financial losses to the seafood industry. It also killed dolphins, whales, birds, and other animals, according to Oceana, an advocacy organization dedicated to ocean conservation. Right move on many fronts Orlando area Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost called Bidens decision a huge win for Floridians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the right move on many fronts, both in terms of quality of life for the people of Florida and coastal communities across the entire country, but also as we work to shave emissions so that we can protect our planet and protect humanity, Frost told the Phoenix in a phone interview on Monday afternoon. Florida Republicans perhaps were reluctant to comment after they heard from Donald Trump on Monday. Speaking to radio show host Hugh Hewitt, Trump said that he would reverse the ban. But in his order, Biden used his authority under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, which allows him to withdraw any unleased areas of the Outer Continental Shelf from future offshore drilling. Frost says that means that Trump could not undo the move by invoking his own executive order but instead would have to advocate that Congress repeal the measure. Frost said if it does come back as an issue for federal lawmakers to decide, his hope is that Florida Republicans will stand by what has traditionally been a bipartisan issue, which is that we dont want new drilling off the coasts of the state of Florida. Bipartisan tradition Rick Scott via U.S. Senate Marco Rubio via U.S. Senate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preventing offshore drilling has historically received bipartisan support from Florida lawmakers. The states two Republican U.S. senators, Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, co-sponsored legislation in 2021 that would have codified Trumps moratorium until 2032. Clare Lattanze, the communications director for Sen. Scott, sent a statement to the Phoenix late Monday afternoon. Senator Scott believes Bidens latest Green New Deal-style EO is just a political stunt on his way out the door to codify his dangerous anti American energy agenda thats wreaked havoc on American families and businesses, she said. Senator Scott fought to keep oil drilling off Floridas coasts since he was governor and secured an extension of the moratorium on oil drilling off Floridas coasts through 2032. His position has not changed. Sen. Rubios office did not respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other Republicans werent so shy in voicing their opinion about the matter. Arkansas Republican Rep. Bruce Westerman, chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, said in a statement that he intends to push for repealing the move. While the federal deficit grows, President Bidens decision to lock away 625 million acres of future energy potential undermines one of our nations greatest revenue streams energy receipts, second only to income taxes, said Westerman. In the 119th Congress, we will use every tool, including reconciliation, to restore and unleash these revenues, fueling conservation, coastal resilience, and energy independence, and ensuring America not OPEC, Russia or China leads the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Trumps comments on Monday, his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, went on social media to denounce Bidens ban. 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 wrote on X. Rest assured, Joe Biden will fail, and we will drill, baby, drill. That comment received an icy response from Rep. Frost. Karoline Leavitt quite frankly doesnt know what the hell shes talking about, he said. The American people voted for Joe Biden for four years. [His presidency] is over in about 14 days. Until that day, he can exercise his duties as president of the United States, because he was also elected with a mandate to protect our planet. And I think thats really important to keep in mind. Trumps moratorium Trump did sign an executive order extending a ban on offshore drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico off Florida (along with bans off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina) for 10 years in 2020 but, as earlier noted, those protections are set to expire in 2032. 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 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. In addition to Democratic lawmakers, environmental leaders around the country praised Bidens move. This critical action is a major win for coastal communities, marine wildlife, and our collective future, said Sierra Club executive director Ben Jealous. In using the power of the presidency, the same authority used by his three immediate predecessors, President Biden is acting to safeguard the public health of coastal communities from the dangers of offshore drilling along with the marine wildlife that live in these waters. This is an epic ocean victory! said Oceana campaign director Joseph Gordon in a statement. Thank you, President Biden, for listening to the voices from coastal communities and contributing to the bipartisan tradition of protecting our coasts. Americans have been calling for these protections for decades, and Oceana applauds President Biden for building on the legacy of Democratic and Republican presidents protecting our coasts from offshore drilling. A rightward national shift on border-related concerns helped give Republicans control of the White House and Senate and the consequences are playing out on Capitol Hill this week with Democrats showing a new willingness to follow the GOPs lead on illegal immigration. Its an unmistakable sign that some in the Democratic ranks are moving in step with the electorate, abandoning their partys old pieties on those issues and embracing tough new enforcement measures. Forty-eight House Democrats voted Tuesday to advance an illegal immigration crackdown known as the Laken Riley Act, a bill named for a Georgia nursing student murdered last year by an undocumented immigrant. Thats up from the 37 Democrats who backed the bill last March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate is set to take up the bill Friday, and already three Democrats, including Sens. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Gary Peters of Michigan, are planning to advance it raising the likelihood that it will be able to vault a filibuster and eventually be signed into law by President-elect Donald Trump. Republican leaders are eager to put Democrats on their heels, forcing them to quickly choose whether its a moment to resist or side with the GOP. This weeks votes will offer early clues on how both sides will chart their path forward on Trumps top priority. We need to take a different approach with immigration, said Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), who voted for the bill Tuesday. What shouldnt be lost is that we have to fix this system and do more than just one piece of this. Democrats previously denigrated measures like the Laken Riley Act, which would require the detention of any undocumented immigrant charged with theft or burglary, as messaging bills meant to stir up political passions, not to solve complex policy problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of the election, some Democrats raised alarms about how voters were repulsed by a seemingly out-of-control southern border. And now, with more ascribing the partys setbacks to those issues, some lawmakers said they felt doubly compelled to back the GOP-led legislation. What happened in South Texas tells you a lot, said Trump-district Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), referring to massive GOP gains on the presidential ticket in areas along the Rio Grande. We dont want the folks to shift downballot, too. Fetterman and Peters signaled they will vote for the measure when its taken up by the Senate on Friday; Peters, a former national campaign committee chair, is up for reelection next year, while Fetterman is up in 2028 and hasnt ruled out a presidential bid. Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) is also expected to vote to advance the bill, according to a person familiar with his plans. Newly elected Sens. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) both voted for the bill last year when they were House members. If they vote the same way this time, the measure would only need three more Democratic votes to break a filibuster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the House Democrats who broke ranks to vote for the legislation Tuesday were purple-district members and newly elected swing district lawmakers like Reps. George Whitesides and Dave Min who were among seven Californians backing the bill. But safe-seat lawmakers backed the legislation, too such as Reps. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) and Terri Sewell (D-Ala.). Even Democrats who remained opposed have undergone their own subtle rhetorical shift. Few in the party openly disputed a need to crack down on border-related crime or to enforce immigration laws. Instead, they cited process-related issues like concerns the bill could lead to more immigration detentions or would sweep up DACA recipients. I think violence in this country is unacceptable no matter who commits any act of violence, and we also have to have a strong foundation for the rule of law, said purple-district Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), who voted against the bill Tuesday. Republicans are using the Laken Riley bill to make clear their intent to prioritize immigration as Trump prepares his return to Washington. They also view it as an early opportunity to put Democrats on record as they come to terms with voters apparent rejection of their partys approach to immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are going to have to make a decision, and, you know, its now a bipartisan bill, said Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyoming) after Fetterman voiced support on Monday. You have a couple of Democrats who have now just joined the Senate, who were members of the House and voted for it, Gallego and Slotkin. So we would hope that they would vote for it as well. And we're going to see what the Georgia senators do, too. This happened in Georgia. Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) declined to say Tuesday how he would vote. The GOP still faces momentous challenges as it tries to pass the remainder of its border policy agenda. For much of it, they are counting on using the budget reconciliation process, which would not require Democratic help. As Republicans hash out their overall reconciliation strategy including whether to try and pass a smaller border-focused bill first Trump will move quickly to crack down on immigration in the days after he takes office, rolling out executive actions, moving to undo Biden administration policies and beginning the process of deporting hundreds of thousands of people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legal setbacks are inevitable, even as his team works to craft executive orders that can withstand court challenges, and Trump will be looking to Congress for additional funding and resources to build upon his agenda. Were all belts and suspenders, said Michael Hough, director of federal relations at NumbersUSA, an immigration restrictionist group. Executive actions are great, because its the immediate fix, immediate cure, but its not a permanent one. We still want to see legislative changes go through. But the rules governing reconciliation likely preclude the inclusion of sweeping immigration restrictions. Enacting law, in other words, will require Democrats participation. I think immigration policy is going to be impossible for them in reconciliation, said Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-Texas). We found that out when we had the majority, and they are counting on incoming President Trump and his executive orders, but they frankly need us. With little to live for in the days since Republicans took back control of the House, Senate, and White House, Democrats have officially taken up their mantle as the opposition party. That work has, in recent days, at times taken the form of repeated jabs at their colleagues across the aisle, reminding viewers at home that theres one party that does peaceful transfers of power. The Senate and the House gathered today for a joint session of Congress, during which Donald Trumps 2024 Electoral College win was certified, with Vice President Kamala Harris following protocol to preside over the certification of her own loss. It was a low-key, dull affair (as it should be) compared to the last time a similar body met to carry out the same duty. In all the pomp and circumstance of the past week, Democrats found themselves back in familiar territory, using each moment of decorum to articulate precisely how and why their party is the party that still believes in liberal democracy. Also, the party of adults. Pointing out the fact that their are no election deniers in their ranks has been a big theme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, during his speech on the House floor opening up the 119th Congress after Mike Johnson secured the speakership, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) snuck in a less-than-subtle dig at his colleagues before handing the gavel over to the newly reelected speaker. Two months ago, the American people elected Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America. Thank you for that very generous applause. Its okay. There are no election deniers on our side of the aisle. One should love AmericaOne should love America when you win and when you lose. Thats the patriotic thing to do and thats the America that House Democrats will fight hard to preserve, because we love this country. After the election was certified this afternoon, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), who served on the House January 6 Select Committee during its investigation into the attack on the Capitol four years ago, reiterated the sentiment. Per WaPo: Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Maryland), the lead manager of Donald Trumps second impeachment who also served on the House select committee that investigated the Capitol attack, said the reason Mondays certification process was so peaceful is 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. The Best Of TPM Today Judge Holds Rudy Giuliani In Contempt Of Court Dont Be So Quick To See Jan. 6 As A Thing Of The Past Yesterdays Most Read Story Why Are Publications Sugar-Coating Livilsbergers Political Minifestos? What We Are Reading Biden Uses 72-Year-Old Law to Give Trump a Slap in the Face Before MAGA 2.0 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington Post expected to lay off dozens of staffers in coming week report Pentagon agrees to historic legal settlement with LGBTQ+ veterans Jan. 7Just by looking at the photos, it's easy to see why the arrest and trial of Winnie Ruth Judd captivated the nation in the early 1930s. It felt like a scene from a film noir: a stunningly beautiful suspect, her gaze detached, facing accusations of murdering her two best friends, stuffing their bodies into trunks, and shipping them to Los Angeles. Judd's story is steeped in scandal, adultery and tragedy. An unlikely ending for one of the victims, Hegvig Samuelson, a farm girl from White Earth, North Dakota, caught up in the intrigue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much has been written about Judd, dubbed the "Tiger Woman" or "The Trunk Murderess," but this story starts with Samuelson and how her quiet life became anything but. Hedvig Samuelson was born to Norwegian immigrant parents in Milwaukee in 1903. By 1910, the family had moved to Mountrail County in northwestern North Dakota, where her father Anders farmed and her mother Abel cared for Hedvig and her older siblings Anna and Samuel. Two years later, her younger brother Arnold was born. Samuelson graduated from White Earth High School in 1922 and set off for Minot State Teachers College. After graduating in 1925, she took a job teaching in Whitehall, Montana. Seemingly looking for more adventure, she took a teaching job 2,000 miles away in Juneau, Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During her time there, she became very ill with tuberculosis. Doctors suggested she move to a warm, dry climate to help her recover. Samuelson, 25, soon found a home in Phoenix. While getting treatment for her illness, she met 27-year-old Agnes Anne LeRoi, described in one newspaper report as "a striking brunette divorcee" X-ray technician. The same reports said the women became "devoted companions" who moved into a cottage near the hospital together. Samuelson wrote to her parents in August 1930 that she was happy to be out of the TB rest home and in a house with LeRoi. "My bedroom is going to be lovely because it faces the east, which will give me the morning sunshine. Don't feel badly about my having to stay in bed. Why, I have it better than most people who are up. I have a nice home to live in, even a telephone by my bed. My doctor thinks he will let me get up at Christmas." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Winnie Ruth Judd, 26, met the two women while working as a medical secretary at the clinic. Married at a young age to Dr. William Judd, Winnie was described as "a gay but erratic charmer with a peaches-and-cream complexion and blue eyes." According to Samuelson's letter home to her parents in North Dakota, Judd moved into the women's cottage while her husband was out of town filling in for another doctor in Bisbee, Arizona. However, the three women proved to be a combustible combination. The scores of newspaper stories written about the case speculate about the source of the tension between the roommates. Some suggested that the three women were "party girls" competing for the affection of a "wealthy lumberman" and "country club playboy" named Jack Halloran. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others suggest that it was solely Judd who was having an affair with Halloran and that LeRoi and Samuelson were threatening to tell Winnie's husband and that Winnie disapproved of her roommates' lifestyle, calling them "perverted" and "abnormal." In a letter dated Oct. 2 the last her parents would ever receive Samuelson wrote about the tension with Judd just two weeks before her murder. "Ruth Judd, the girl that was staying with us moved, so we (Samuelson and LeRoi) are alone again and we like it so much better. Three never get along well." On Friday night Oct. 16, 1931, a neighbor of LeRoi and Samuelson recalled hearing three gunshots, but nothing else. They later said they didn't recall seeing the women that weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few days later, their bodies would be found at a railroad station in Los Angeles. On Oct. 19, an express messenger told baggageman Arthur Henderson he had brought two trunks from Phoenix "in bad condition- blood is leaking out and they smell bad." Henderson ordered the bags not to be released. Later, according to newspaper reports, when "an attractive red-haired woman and a blond young man" claimed them, Henderson ordered them to open the trunks. The woman said she'd have to call her husband to get the keys. When they didn't return for four hours, Henderson called the police, who broke into the trunks to discover LeRoi's body and the grisly dismembered remains of Samuelson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The women were eventually identified and the search was on for the redhead, Judd, and the blond man, who was later identified as her brother. Back in Arizona, authorities searched LeRoi and Samuelson's cottage. They found an "immaculate" kitchen with "several dishes which apparently had been prepared just moments before the women met their deaths." They also discovered a partially completed letter in Samuelson's typewriter its contents now hauntingly eerie in light of what would later unfold. "Dear Amy, I have just 15 minutes of leisure before the Sherlock Holmes radio play. We have all the doors locked and windows barred in anticipation of an exciting time. Then we shall douse all the lights and get deliciously frightened. Isn't it silly? Two grown women with the mentality of children. When it is all over we are both too frightened to even go to bed, usually." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was where the letter ended. Their doors might have been locked, but they let Judd in that night. An argument the details of which are still not clear started and turned deadly. After her arrest, Judd told police she went to the women's home to talk to Samuelson about some nasty things Samuelson said about LeRoi. Then things got out of hand. She said Samuelson got a hold of a gun and shot her in the left hand. "I struggled with her and the gun fell. Mrs. LeRoi grabbed an ironing board and started to strike me over the head with it. In the struggle I got hold of the gun and Sammie (Samuelson) got shot." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said LeRoi continued to come after her, so she shot her, too. She said she was devastated that her two friends were dead, but she shot them in self-defense. However, at her trial, the prosecution presented a coroner's report that stated it appeared the two women had been shot in their sleep, both in the temple and Samuelson again in her chest. Judd claimed that Halloran helped her dispose of the bodies in the trunks and their plan was to send the bags to California, where her brother would throw them in the ocean. Halloran was indicted on accessory to murder charges, but not convicted. Judd, however, was found guilty and sentenced to death. To avoid the death penalty, her attorney convinced her to plead insanity so she could serve her sentence in a mental hospital. She reluctantly agreed, hoping that Halloran, with his connections, could get her out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He didn't. Once at the asylum, newspapers reported she "quickly charmed her way into the hearts of patients and employees." She even set up a beauty shop where she could "wave and dress" everyone's hair. She must have tired of the tresses as six years later, she began her decades-long quest to escape. In 1939, she broke out twice, once for six days and later for 12 days. She was eventually found and returned to the asylum. She would escape six more times over the next 23 years. Her final escape was in 1962, when she tasted freedom for seven years. She was found working as a domestic servant named Marian Lane. She returned to serve out her sentence. She was granted parole in November of 1971 and moved to California, where she promised to live a quiet life. Jana Bommersbach, a native of Gwinner, North Dakota, became fascinated with Winnie Ruth Judd's story when she became a writer for the Arizona Republic in 1972. Bommersbach died last summer, but in a 1993 interview, she told The Forum, "Winnie Ruth Judd is one of those legends that won't go away." After publishing a story in the newspaper seeking to find out whatever happened to the infamous Winnie Ruth Judd, she received over 75 phone calls from individuals claiming to know the truth about the case. She interviewed 50 of them, turning the story into a two-part news series that ultimately became the book "The Trunk Murderess: Winnie Ruth Judd." After three years of trying to get Judd to talk, Bommersbach was finally granted a sit-down interview with the now elderly convicted murderer, who looked more like a sweet bingo-playing grandma. Bommersbach called it "the most interesting experience in my career, but also the most frustrating." "The interview was all over the map. As a journalist, you try to steer the interview and pin people down. But it was clear that if I did much steering, she wouldn't talk at all," Bommersbach said. Although Judd did not divulge as much as Bommersbach would have liked, the newspaper series and book were highly acclaimed, and the author walked away with a definitive opinion about a very complex case. Among Bommersbach's conclusions were that Judd acted in self-defense and was railroaded by Halloran and other members of Phoenix society. She believed Judd's claim that Halloran was involved with all three women Judd, LeRoi and Samuelson and that he even bragged to several credible people that Judd took the rap for him, showing up at the mental hospital where she lived to taunt her. Bommersbach also said there is no way Judd, who weighed 103 pounds, could have cut up her friends, stuffed them in trunks, and then taken the trunks to the railroad station. She had to have had help. Bommersbach wasn't able to get a second interview. Judd died in 1998, taking to her grave what happened the night of Oct. 16, 1931. "After I got to know her, I realized she still feels guilty about the fact that she killed her two best friends, even if it was in self-defense, about having an illicit affair, about being thought crazy. She has spent as much time as possible looking forward and not looking back. She's no longer interested in being exonerated, only in being left alone," Bommersbach said. "I know she had found some peace at the end. I only hope I helped." As for one of her victims, "the demure" schoolteacher with the shy smile, North Dakota's Hedvig Samuelson was buried on Nov. 7, 1931, in Minneapolis. You can find Bommersbach's book "The Trunk Murderess: Winnie Ruth Judd" in bookstores and on Amazon. Additionally, New York Times Bestselling Author Laurie Notario published "The Murderess: A Novel" in October 2024 and dedicated it to Sunny Worel, a relative of Samuelson who has done extensive research on Hedvig and also provided some photos for this story. (KRON) Matthew Muller, the man convicted of the high-profile kidnapping and rape of Denise Huskins in Vallejo, was charged on Monday with another kidnapping that happened in 2015 in Contra Costa County. Muller was also charged last week for a series of 2009 home invasions in Santa Clara County. Muller, 47, is serving a 40-year prison sentence for kidnapping and raping Huskins. Netflix documented the story in the series American Nightmare. In more news just announced on Monday, Huskins plans to speak at Seaside City Hall to discuss the new charges against Muller. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A slew of new charges against Muller in multiple Bay Area counties stem from recent confessions that he allegedly made in prison letters. Denise Huskins to make public appearance Huskins, the victim of the 2015 Vallejo kidnapping, will speak alongside Seaside Police Chief Nick Borges about the new charges against Muller. denise huskins_195630 Huskins was taken from her Vallejo home and held for two days in Mullers South Lake Tahoe cabin. Muller later took her to Southern California where she was found. Vallejo police incorrectly accused Huskins of faking her own kidnapping in a hoax inspired by the book and movie Gone Girl. Oakland homicide victim identified as father of two Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late December of this year, Muller was charged with home invasions that allegedly happened in 2009 in Mountain View and Palo Alto. In both cases, a man tied up and drugged young women after breaking into their homes. He confessed to those crimes, court documents show. Borges told other police departments that Muller wants to confess all his past crimes, stating he feels compelled to strengthen laws for future victims. Denise Huskins arrives at the 2024 Critics Choice Real TV Awards on June 15, 2024 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic) In a letter from prison, Muller said that his criminal behavior started with voyeurism, or the sexual interest of watching other people. He then got the idea to break into homes, and he shared details with police about how he executed the break-ins in Mountain View and Palo Alto. Muller is a Marine who graduated from Harvard University and worked as an attorney in California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Huskins and Borges will talk about the new charges against Muller. Huskins was featured on the Netflix series. She has also been working with Seaside police to inform cops how to better handle sexual assault investigations. San Ramon Kidnapping The new charges on Monday are for a previously unreported kidnapping that happened in 2015 in unincorporated San Ramon, the Contra Costa County District Attorneys Office said. Authorities learned of the crime through correspondence between law enforcement and Muller. Muller has confessed to the crime, the DAs office said. Timeline: Matthew Muller and Gone Girl Vallejo kidnapping case Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to an investigation by the Sheriffs and District Attorneys offices of Contra Costa County, Muller held two men and one woman for ransom in spring 2015. He demanded that one victim extract more than $10,000 from their bank account and left the home after securing the money. The victims never came forward for fear of retaliation. Muller will be charged with three felony counts of kidnapping for ransom in Contra Costa County. Muller committed serious offenses throughout Northern California, and my office will be resolute in seeking justice on behalf of the victims in Contra Costa County, said DA Diane Becton. Muller is currently being held in a Santa Clara County jail. His sentence for the Huskins kidnapping is to be served at a federal prison in Tucson, Ariz., and he will be transferred there after the Santa Clara County cases are resolved. 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. The King of Denmark has altered the royal coat of arms to feature Greenland more prominently amid Donald Trumps declared interest in buying the territory. The US president-elect has suggested that Washington could purchase the worlds largest island, which has been under Denmarks effective control since the 14th century, and make Greenland great again. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, Mr Trump said in a post on his Truth Social site, adding: We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. Make Greenland great again! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump Jr visited Greenland on Tuesday in a private capacity to record material for a podcast. Mr Trump Jr told journalists during his trip that he was there as a tourist but made a stop in a restaurant in the capital Nuuk filled with about a dozen people wearing Make America Great Again hats. While there he held the phone up as the president-elect told the group over speaker phone that were gonna treat you so well. Mr Trump said the Danish-owned territory was so strategically located. Credit: @OJoelsen/@DonaldJTrumpJr/X He added: I just want to say that it (Greenland) is a very special place. It needs security for itself and needs security very much or the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect added that the ships currently allowed to sail around Greenland were not the ships you want, a possible allusion to Russian aggression. A member of the public interrupted the speech to shout: Yes! He continued: We need security and the whole country needs it. Frederik X, who succeeded the throne after the abdication of Queen Margrethe II last year, appears to have responded by altering the royal coat of arms. The updated design has dropped the three crowns signifying the Kalmar Union between Denmark, Sweden and Norway, in favour of an enlarged polar bear and a ram which symbolise Greenland and the Faroe Islands respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The royal household said the new coat of arms, which is used on official documents and seals, strengthens the prominence of the commonwealth and the three crowns 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 Frederiks accession on Jan 14 last year. Laying down a marker However, Lars Hovbakke Srensen, a historian at Absalom University College, said the monarchs intervention laid down a marker. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just before Christmas, Mr Trump said that 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. The islands government responded that it was not for sale, echoing its response to similar statements from Mr Trump in 2019. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sebastian Olden-Jorgensen, a historian at the Saxo Institute at the University of Copenhagen, said the decision also sends clear signals 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. Shackles of colonialism Mute Egede, Greenlands prime minister, declared intentions to pursue independence from Denmark during his New Year speech. 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 said, adding: Like other countries in the world, we must work to remove the obstacles to cooperation which we can describe as the shackles of colonialism and move forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The independence movement has gained traction in recent years in part because of revelations of misconduct by Danish authorities, including an involuntary birth control campaign rolled out in the 1960s. Greenland, which is situated between Canada and Scandinavia, was a Danish colony until 1953 but is now a self-governing territory of Denmark. In 2009, Greenland achieved the right to claim independence through a vote and in 2023, Greenlands government presented its first draft constitution. Musk: Greenland wants to be American Elon Musk, the incoming head of the inaugural US Department for Government Efficiency, has suggested inhabitants of Greenland would prefer to be part of America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people of Greenland should decide their future and I think they want to be part of America, he wrote on X. The Danish foreign ministry said it had noted the planned visit of Donald Trump Jr to Greenland, adding: As it is not an official American visit, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark has no further comment. Greenlandic media have said he will stay for several hours and no official meetings are scheduled. Video footage from Nuuks airport showed a Boeing 757 emblazoned with the word Trump landing shortly before 1pm UK time on the runway in the capital of the Arctic territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the social media platform Rumble, Donald Trump Jr said he would be visiting Nuuk but not to buy Greenland. 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) -- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rebuffed President-elect Donald Trumps wish to buy Greenland but welcomed US investment in the self-ruling territory. Most Read from Bloomberg The US is absolutely our closest ally and Denmark is open to more collaboration in the North Atlantic region, Frederiksen told local broadcasters on Tuesday. We have a clear interest that its the US that plays a large role in that region, and not, for example, Russia, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland has become a point of tension between the US and Denmark after Trump last month suggested he still wants to buy the territory, stressing that US ownership and control of the island is an absolute necessity for national security. Its a repeat of an idea flouted by Trump in 2019 during his first term as president, which Frederiksen at the time called absurd. Bar a short statement on Dec. 23 from her office, Frederiksen had so far refrained from commenting on Trumps new push. Greenland, located strategically between the Arctic and the North Atlantic, is becoming increasingly important geopolitically for the US. It is home to a US base thats used to detect missile threats and monitoring space, and the islands vast stores of critical minerals have drawn interest from global powers including the US, Russia and China. Frederiksens comments came as Donald Trump Jr. arrived in Greenland on Tuesday. Before the trip, he rejected speculation he was heading there to buy the island, saying the visit was private and that no official meetings had been scheduled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But comments from his father suggest otherwise. Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great, Trump said in a post on his nascent social media platform Truth Social on Tuesday, adding that they, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Greenlandic Premier Mute B. Egede, who is pushing ahead for independence for the island of 57,000 people, has also made it clear that Greenland is not for sale, but that its open for deals. Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. Our future and fight for independence is our business, he said in a post on Facebook on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his New Year speech on the first day of 2025, Egede had 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. In 2023, Greenlands government unveiled a draft constitution for an independent nation. It has since published a foreign, security and defense policy blueprint expressing a desire to forge closer links with North America. Denmarks prime minister would not comment on whether she supported independence for Greenland, but said it its understandable and legitimate that people want to move in that direction. The future of Greenland must be decided in Greenland and in no other places, Frederiksen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with comment from Greenland premier in 10th paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. DENVER (KDVR) A Pinpoint Weather Alert Day will be in effect Tuesday as snowfall moves into Denvers weather Monday night through Tuesday morning creating slick driving conditions. Weather tonight: Snow showers, chilly Monday night, snow showers will spread from higher to lower elevations. FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar Snow will not only become more widespread but accumulate overnight. Winter weather advisories are set to start tonight and continue through Tuesday morning. Accumulating snowfall will lead to difficult driving conditions. If you have to drive on Tuesday morning, remember the slogan: Ice and snow, take it slow! Weather tomorrow: Snow showers On Tuesday, snow showers will continue through through the morning. Between 2-4 inches of snowfall is expected before daybreak, with another inch or so falling through the morning drive. This will bring snowfall totals around the metro to 3-5 inches, with isolated areas near the foothills picking up pockets closer to 6-7 inches in total. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up for weather alerts from the Pinpoint Weather team Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the snow clears, clouds will linger, and so will the cold air. High temperatures will only reach the mid-20s, which is about 20 degrees colder than normal for this time of year. Looking ahead: More cold temperatures and snow chances Wednesday will start off with a morning low in the single digits. Then, sunshine will warm temperatures up to the mid-30s, which is nearly 10 degrees below normal for this time of year, but still warm enough to help melt Tuesdays snow. Thursday, temperatures will stay cool, only reaching a high in the mid-30s as another chance for snow moves in. Snow wraps up by Friday, but leaves behind a sunny and chilly end to the week. Saturday, another chance for snow moves in late ahead of a cold and dry end to the weekend. 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. WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) For nearly two weeks, taxpayers in Winston-Salem havent been able to pay their city bills online. Its due to a cyber event that disrupted the citys network on Dec. 26. During the first Winston-Salem City Council meeting of the year, City Manager William Patrick Pate took the podium and elaborated on the citys response to the cyber event. He went on to say that certain city computers have been taken offline for cautionary reasons. Pate says the city has reached out to external agencies for assistance in the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Carolina National Guard, the North Carolina Local Government System Association Strike Team, the North Carolina Department of Emergency Management, the FBI and two divisions of the Department of Homeland Security are working to help investigate the cyber event. With no new information on what caused the citys computer system to go down in the first place, FOX8 asked Assistant City Manager Ben Rowe for clarification. All we know is that there was an abnormality that occurred within our network and because of that we initiated an investigation, Rowe said. Rowe would not specify what that abnormality was but says residents still cant submit online payments to the city due to the computer system outage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also said that due to the investigation, he cant release any additional information. Rowe did have a message to the community. Really need folks to continue being patient with us and know that were still investigating what happened. Were in the process of restoring our access to the internet and reestablishing our business systems Hopefully, well have enough progress that well be able to resume some of those functions that we cant provide right now like the online bill payment, Rowe said. While online payments may be disabled, in-person cash or checks can be made at the Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building at 101 E. First St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials do not believe any personal information was compromised. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LINCOLN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Weeks after an armed robbery at a truck stop near Niles, a man and a woman have been arrested, deputies say. Around 4 a.m. on Dec. 21, authorities responded to JDs Truck Stop on Mayflower Road near US-31 for an armed robbery, according to a release from the Berrien County Sheriffs Office. Deputies say a masked man who was armed with a pistol that could be seen in his coat pocket demanded money from an employee, then fled the scene. Deputies say as they investigated, they learned that multiple people were involved in the robbery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the sheriffs office, detectives on Tuesday carried out a search warrant in Lincoln Township and arrested two people: a 31-year-old man and a 50-year-old woman, who were lodged at the Berrien County jail for armed robbery. Their names were not released Tuesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 6The deputy city manager of the city of Santa Fe will step down at the end of the week, a departure that comes amid several high-level vacancies, including the city manager's job. Layla Archuletta-Maestas, who started in spring 2022, is leaving for a new opportunity in Albuquerque, where she lives. Her last day with the city is Friday, city spokesperson Regina Ruiz confirmed. "I found her assistance so valuable, and she's definitely going to be missed," interim city manager Randy Randall said Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A job posting for Archuletta-Maestas' successor is on the city's online hiring portal, Ruiz said in a recent interview, but a selection will not be made until a new city manager is hired. "We are going to wait until the city manager is in place to select a deputy city manager, so there will not be an interim," she said. Randall, executive director of Tourism Santa Fe, has been serving as interim city manager since early November, following the departure of former city manager John Blair, who accepted a position as director of intergovernmental affairs at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Archuletta-Maestas was not eligible to serve as interim city manager because she lacked the eight years of managerial experience required for the role, Ruiz wrote in a November email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Along with city manager, the positions of community development director and affordable housing director remain unfilled. The tourism director position is filled on an interim basis while Randall serves as city manager, and Water Division Director Jesse Roach is serving as interim public utilities director during an internal investigation into Director John Dupuis, who was arrested on a larceny charge in late December. Dupuis is accused of stealing another passenger's checked luggage at the Santa Fe Regional Airport. He is on administrative leave without pay. Ruiz said in an interview Nov. 1 the city hoped to have a new city manager within "30 to 60 days." However, a successor to Blair has not been named, and a job posting for the position is still live on the city's job portal. City councilors are scheduled to discuss the city manager selection process in a closed session during a special meeting Thursday. Randall said he is not involved in the search for a new city manager but believes the city is "pretty close" to making a selection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since no one will be named interim deputy manager, Ruiz said Archuletta-Maestas' responsibilities will be picked up by other staff members until the position is filled. According to the city's organizational chart, the deputy city manager is responsible for directly overseeing the risk management and safety division. Ruiz said responsibility for that agency had been shifted to the city manager. "The deputy city manager role is really important to the operation of the City Manager's Office and we've got a void to fill," Randall said. He acknowledged Archuletta-Maestas' departure will put a strain on the office but said staff will be able to put on hold some longer-term projects she was responsible for and reallocated her other tasks until a new deputy is hired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will certainly find other ways to get them accomplished," he said of her responsibilities. Archuletta-Maestas previously worked as an account executive at an Albuquerque-based management company and as an operations manager for U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich and helped direct the New Mexico Democrat's 2018 reelection campaign. She was raised in Espanola and has a master's degree in public administration from the University of New Mexico. The deputy city manager position, which had been vacant between 2018 and 2022, was brought back at the request of Blair shortly after his hiring in January 2022. Renee Martinez had served in the position between its creation in 2016 and her departure in 2018, and had a salary of $135,000. During the 2018 mayoral election, some candidates questioned whether the role was necessary with the shift that year to a full-time mayor from a part-time mayor, according to prior reporting in The New Mexican. The deputy city manager's job requires a bachelor's degree in business management, public administration "or related field," according to the job posting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Job duties are wide-ranging but focus on providing day-to-day assistance to the city manager. The salary range listed is the equivalent of about $98,280 to $142,500 annually. Archuletta-Maestas was hired at a salary of $110,000 and now earns over $116,000. A Lorain County Sheriffs Deputy was placed on leave for allegedly paralyzing an inmate more than a year and a half ago. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Lorain County jail deputy Brian Tellier allegedly slammed the man headfirst into a wall while he was handcuffed, CBS affiliate WOIO reported. TRENDING STORIES: Newly elected Sheriff Jack Hall stated in the past that there has been a long-standing culture of abuse at the jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After taking office, Hall suspended Tellier, and the incident has since resulted in a $40,000,000 federal lawsuit that the inmates attorney filed in January 2024. The lawsuit in ongoing. Since the time of the alleged incident, Jeffrey Fry has struggled to recover from his injuries. Ive got to keep my hands like this because when I straighten them out, they hyper-extend, Fry said as he motioned with his hands. Frys attorney, Nicholas DiCello, says Tellier recklessly slammed his client headfirst into a wall, which caused him to be partially paralyzed. Jeffs baseline now is what hes looking at for the rest of his life, DiCello said. Jeffs not going to get any better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident occurred on May 12, 2023, when Fry was arrested for violating probation, WOIO reported. LCSO surveillance video shows Tellier grabbing Frys left arm and slamming him headfirst into a wall, according to DiCello. Afterwards, Fry appeared limp and unconscious. Dicello said Tellier can then be seen tossing Fry like a rag doll and flopping him onto a gurney, with no regard for potential injuries. Hes got a permanent spinal cord injury, hes got a lesion on his spinal cord, DiCello said. Fry has endured extensive operations to help restore some of his basic moto functions. The back of his neck is now covered in scars from surgical stitches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prior sheriff, Phil Stammitti, reprimanded Tellier but allowed him to keep his job at the jail. However, he was not allowed to have any contact with inmates. Since the incident occurred, Tellier has never been suspended, until now. On Monday, newly elected Sheriff Jack Hall placed Tellier on paid administrative leave pending an investigation, WOIO reported. In May 2024, Hall promised that if elected hed clean house at the Sheriffs Office by cracking down on officers who mistreat inmates. One of the things that always sticks out was a term of culture of corruption, Hall said. DiCello hopes that under new administration deputies will show more care and compassion for inmates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No ones called Jeff to apologize to him, DiCello said. No ones called Jeff to say, hey were going to look into this, this isnt going to happen again. DiCellos lawsuit names 18 defendants, including the Elyria Police Department, Lorain County Sheriffs Office and Lifecare Ambulance, Inc. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Des Moines University has partnered with Bryan College of Health Sciences to offer students guaranteed interviews and reserved seats. (Photo courtesy of Des Moines University) Des Moines University has formed a new partnership to help undergraduate students from Bryan College of Health Sciences further their education. With a new agreement, Des Moines University will offer certain Bryan College of Health Sciences students guaranteed interviews and reserved seats in some programs, according to a news release. Bryan College of Health Sciences is a private, four-year college located in Lincoln, Neb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This partnership will provide students with a comprehensive pathway from Bryan College of Health Sciences to one of Des Moines Universitys advanced graduate pathways in health care, said Jason States, dean of health care studies at Bryan College of Health Sciences. This will enable students to better understand health care systems, clinical practices and emerging health technologies, creating a pipeline of highly qualified individuals who will meet the diverse challenges of todays health care landscape. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Bryan College of Health Sciences students who meet Des Moines Universitys admissions requirements will have guaranteed interviews in six DMU advanced degree programs, according to the release, including doctorates of osteopathic medicine and physical therapy, masters of science in physician assistant studies, anatomy, and biomedical sciences, and an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. Seats will also be reserved in the doctor of podiatric medicine and doctor of occupational therapy programs for Bryan College of Health Sciences students, the release stated, who will be selected based on their grade-point average and other academic achievements, observational and work experience and recommendations from faculty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The partnership takes effect immediately, according to the release. Des Moines University has forged similar partnerships with universities both in and outside of Iowa, including Simpson College and Benedictine University. Partnering with Bryan Health reflects our shared dedication to nurturing the next generation of health care professionals. This will provide a seamless transition for students and many opportunities for growth and advanced education, said DMU College of Health Sciences Dean Wallace Boeve. Together, we will prepare skilled, compassionate and competent health care professionals, ready to tackle the complexities of evolving changes in health care. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed five new members to the board overseeing the University of West Florida in Pensacola, including two people affiliated with the conservative think tank behind Project 2025. The appointments to the public university in Florida's western panhandle come two years after DeSantis tapped six new board members to oversee New College of Florida, in what critics say was a hostile political takeover of the small progressive school. The new appointees to UWF's board include Adam Kissel, a visiting fellow on higher education reform for The Heritage Foundation, which proposed Project 2025 as a policy blueprint for a hard-right turn in American government and society. Kissel served in the U.S. Department of Education under President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis also appointed Scott Yenor, a political science professor at Boise State University who previously was a visiting fellow on American political thought at The Heritage Project. The other nominees are Paul Bailey, an adjunct professor in the pre-law program at Pensacola Christian College; Gates Garcia, president of the private equity firm Pinehill Capital Partners; and Chris Young, founder of the personal injury law firm Perry & Young. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate, where Republicans hold a supermajority. In 2023, senators declined to confirm one of DeSantis' most controversial New College nominees, but approved the others. DeSantis built his national profile by leveraging divisive policies in Floridas classrooms, banning instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, rooting out diversity programs and limiting what Florida schools can teach about racism. ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Hillsborough County State Attorney Susan Lopez took her oath of office Tuesday, administered by President-elect Donald Trumps nominee for U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi part of what Gov. Ron DeSantis called a star-studded cast gathered in Tampa. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody joined with the governor, looking on as Lopez began her first term as elected state attorney, the area's top criminal prosecutor. Lopez was first put in place by DeSantis in 2022 after hed removed her elected predecessor, Andrew Warren, a Democrat who has challenged his ouster in federal court. The celebratory gathering among top Republicans contrasted with the swearing-in earlier Tuesday of Orlando-area state attorney Monique Worrell, a Democrat returned to office by voters a year after her removal by DeSantis. Like Warren, Worrell was accused by DeSantis of going too easy on crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Warren lost to Lopez in November, Worrell defeated Andrew Bain, the former judge put in place by DeSantis as state attorney for Orange and Osceola counties. Worrell: 'I didn't intend to give up' Eighteen months ago, I stood on these very steps after being unjustly removed from an office that you elected me to, Worrell said outside the state attorneys office. I told you then that I didnt intend to give up. And as a result of you standing with metoday I am honored to return to the seat of the peoples state attorney. DeSantis, in his brief remarks, made only passing references to his willingness to overturn the election of prosecutors in two of the states largest regions. We needed to right the ship here, DeSantis said, shortly before Lopez was sworn in by Bondi, a former Hillsborough County prosecutor now poised to become the nations top law enforcement official under Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his appeal, Warren argues his removal was illegal and retaliatory for his opposition to prosecuting cases related to Floridas strict abortion and transgender care laws. Attorneys for DeSantis are urging the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to dismiss Warrens appeal as moot, citing Novembers victory by Lopez. Gov. Ron DeSantis observed the swearing-in of Hillsborough County State Attorney Susan Lopez, who he'd appointed in 2022, after removing Democrat Andrew Warren. Trump, DeSantis focus on prosecutors... DeSantis' ouster of state attorney to be reviewed by court, while Trump plots own revenge GOP overhaul a 'no sale' with panel... GOP idea to overhaul Florida judicial circuits rejected by panel Lopez promises to work for public safety, justice We work every day for public safety and to bring justice to families, Lopez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis called Lopez a law-and-order state attorney and noted both Moody's and Bondis roots in Hillsborough County: Bondi is a former two-term Florida attorney general and her successor, Moody, is considered a potential DeSantis pick to replace Florida U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, Trump's nominee for Secretary of State. Moody also was a Hillsborough County circuit judge. That is a murderers row of prosecutors that would make any criminal blush, DeSantis said. John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com, or on X at @JKennedyReport. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: DeSantis at swearing-in of FL prosecutor whose career arc he shaped Gov. Ron DeSantis speaking to reporters in Tampa on Jan. 7, 2024 (photo credit: Mitch Perry/ Florida Phoenix) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is starting the New Year with some resolutions for the Florida Legislature. Saying that he expects President-elect Donald Trump to issue a number of executive orders regarding illegal immigration after being sworn into office later this month, Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday he wants the Florida Legislature to call a special session so it can be prepared to act on those potential measures as well as to address issues regarding condominium safety regulations, hurricane relief, and fraudulent signature-gathering petitions for constitutional amendments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters for the first time in the new year, DeSantis seemed most animated in discussing what the state needs to do to be prepared for what the incoming Trump administration has promised will be the largest deportation effort in American history once the president-elect is sworn into office on Jan 20. Ive spoken to President-elect Trump about when he comes in theres going to be a lot of executive orders taken. Theres going to be a lot of changes in policy particularly with respect to illegal immigration, DeSantis said after attending an investiture ceremony in Tampa for Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez. Weve done a lot. We passed a major bill in 2023, but I think that there needs to be some additional legislation to help complement the federal governments nownewfound appreciation to stop illegal immigration, and to hold people accountable. We need to be prepared to act. I dont think that you can wait until April or May to do something in that respect. The governors statements come after Floridas new GOP legislative leaders Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez in November refused to say what, if anything, they would do about the incoming Trump administrations plans for mass deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any sort of immigration policy comes from the federal government, Perez told reporters in Tallahassee November 19. Its for the federal government to decide. Thats a question that you should be asking the president. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Thats a federal issue, added Albritton on that same day. My purview and my calling as of this morning when I was sworn in and voted in by my senators in this body was to oversee the operation of the Florida Senate. I dont serve in the federal government. So, we can pontificate, I guess, all the time about it. Neither Perez nor Albritton immediately responded to the Florida Phoenixs request for comments Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis also said if the Legislature were to convene for a special session, he would like for lawmakers to address the best way to use state resources to help the federal government remove undocumented immigrants, saying that could include imposing some obligations on local law enforcement agencies. I think that we have to provide funding if we do that under Floridas Constitution, which Im willing to do, he said. Push for condo relief again In addition to asking lawmakers to address immigration in a special session the governor also put condominiums on his wish list. This is DeSantis second bite of the apple in appealing to legislative leaders to meet ahead of the regularly scheduled 60-day session slated to begin on March 4. Last September the governor said that the Legislature needed to meet before the end of the year to help ease the financial strain on condo owners facing steep assessment costs due to mandatory inspections and reserve funding requirements. The mandates were the result of legislation passed in the wake of the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, which resulted in the deaths of 98 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Senate President Kathleen Passidomo said at the time that a special session wasnt needed on the condominium issue Albritton and Perez backed Passidomos sentiments. Since then DeSantis said his office and members of the Florida Senate have solicited input on possible legislative solutions to the issue in the past few months. DeSantis acknowledged he isnt sure theres an agreement on the solution but said hes hopeful. Like I said, if we have an agreement, Ill call the session and then well go. But I do think that we have to act sooner rather than later and so were going to be working with the Legislature on that. Hurricane help DeSantis also said the Legislature should act sooner rather than later when it comes to providing financial relief for the homeowners and businesses that were deleteriously affected by the Hurricanes Helene and Milton last fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People say Well, just pass it during the regular session. Well, if somebody needs relief, why not give that to them now, instead of waiting until July 1 when the new budget will take effect? he said, adding that there are people still on the waiting list to get assistance from the My Safe Florida Home program. Thats the home-hardening program that offers inspections and grants up to $100,000 to help residents upgrade their homes and qualify for property-insurance discounts valued up to $700,000. Following Hurricane Idalia in August of 2023, the Legislature held a special session and earmarked $400 million in grants and tax relief for businesses and residents impacted by that storm. Election law The fourth item that DeSantis wants the Legislature to tackle during a special session is changing state election laws regarding signature petition fraud. The Florida Department of States Office of Election Crimes & Security released an interim report in October alleging that Floridians Protecting Freedom, the Amendment 4 campaign organization, violated petition gathering laws. Last month the group agreed to pay a $164,000 fine to the Department of State regarding those allegations, but did not admit to or deny violating Florida election law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis said theres agreement with the Legislature the Legislature needs to change the election law If were going to do that, why wait to have it go into effect July 1? Do it now so that we know that going forward if theres going to be any [constitutional] amendments offered. Florida House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell and Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo did not immediately respond to Florida Phoenixs request for comment. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Gov. Gavin Newsom touted higher than expected tax revenues and a "modest surplus" in an unconventional preview of his $322.2 billion spending proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, but his office said he still plans to pull money from the states rainy day reserves to pay for policy priorities. The Democratic governor delivered a selective presentation of his initial 2025-26 budget at Cal State Stanislaus on Monday that largely praised the state's economic position under his leadership and made it difficult to understand the full scope of his spending plan. Newsom said details would be forthcoming at the end of the week. The early, yet incomplete look at his proposal shows that Newsom's annual spending plan has grown by $24 billion compared to the current budget enacted in July. The governor announced a projection of an extra $16.5 billion in tax revenue above his administrations prior estimates, which the Department of Finance said is spread over three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The top lines include a balanced budget, no deficits," Newsom said. The proposal kicks off the annual six-month process in which the governor and lawmakers negotiate a final spending plan to be approved in late June. Newsom's presentation at a college campus in the Central Valley town of Turlock was an unusual twist on the ritual, driven by Newsom's decision to travel to Washington, D.C., later this week for the funeral of former President Carter. Because he presented the budget a few days earlier than initially planned, Monday's rollout did not include the detailed budget document that typically accompanies the governor's presentation. Newsom described his proposal as making "significant commitments to accountability, transparency and results" and "maintaining fiscal discipline in a time of deep uncertainty." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the revenue increase, the cost of providing Medi-Cal coverage to seniors and more undocumented immigrants, offering pre-kindergarten to all 4-year-olds, creating a new $420-million tax break for Hollywood film studios and funding other signature Newsom policies leaves California with a spending problem. Newsom's office said he plans to withdraw another $7.1 billion from California's rainy day reserves in the upcoming budget year, after declaring a fiscal emergency last year to take out $5.1 billion to balance the current budget and another $900 million from a safety-net reserve. The decision to dip into the states savings account was part of an agreement made last year with lawmakers to also delay programs, cut spending and rely on the occasional accounting gimmick to solve a $46.8 billion deficit. California leaders were forced to reconcile a $31.7 billion deficit the prior year. Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) said those tough decisions put California in a better financial position today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We look forward to taking a close look at the governors full proposal later this week," McGuire said in a statement. "The major work will happen in the months ahead, when well get down to brass tacks and craft a responsible and balanced budget which will help make California more livable and affordable. Read more: After reducing deficit, Newsom proposals bring extra costs to California Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, a Republican elected in November to represent inland San Diego County, called the governors proposal negligent before Newsom even delivered his presentation. Gavin Newsom is in over his head and hopes that no one notices but no amount of Enron-style accounting will change the alarming reality that Gavin Newsom has created a fiscal crisis, DeMaio said in a statement, calling on his fellow lawmakers to reject the governors proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Analysts warn that the financial outlook will worsen in the future with the potential for even greater economic upheaval under the incoming Trump administration. The California Legislative Analysts Office in November predicted a largely balanced budget in 2025-26 with a shortage of $2 billion, while anticipating a deficit of about $20 billion in 2026-27 and an even higher shortfall by 2028-29 of about $30 billion. The LAO reported that the California economy has been in a gradual slowdown over the last two years, with about 25% more unemployed workers overall and declining trends in consumer spending. Newsom did not offer a deficit projection for future years and said he will share more when he presents his revised budget proposal in May. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Early outlook suggests $2-billion California deficit, warns of federal changes under Trump Corrin Rankin, vice chair of the California Republican Party, criticized the governor for not doing enough to help regular Californians. Handing out tax breaks to Hollywood and spending on AI is great for the states billionaires, Rankin said in response to Newsoms presentation. However, the rest of us feel like were drowning in growing costs and our lives havent been improved. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) agreed that the state needs to tackle cost-of-living issues. "We also need to prepare for challenges ahead and must show restraint with spending," Rivas said in a statement. "I am committed to working with the governor and my colleagues on a budget that protects essential services and makes life more affordable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Newsom administration has said President-elect Trump's plan for international tariffs, uncertainty around federal Medi-Cal funding and threats to withhold disaster funding increase the likelihood of even greater budget uncertainty in the years ahead. "We really have to see what fire and fury comes from Trump in the next few weeks and really get a sense," Newsom said. The governor is expected to leave for the Carter funeral after he spends time with President Biden Tuesday in California to celebrate the new Chuckwalla National Monument near Joshua Tree and the Sattitla National Monument near the Oregon border. Joe Stephenshaw, director of the California Department of Finance, will formally present the budget to the Legislature and answer questions on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom plans to leave the state Saturday for a vacation with his family. 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. NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) Just before he was shot to death, Christian Williams had an interaction with the man who killed him, according to new court documents that allege Jason Robinson, 35, pulled the trigger. First responders located Williams in a car that had crashed on Kerrey Avenue, between South Cape Henry Avenue and East Princess Anne Road, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest on the evening of Oct. 10. He was declared dead less than an hour later. Robinson faces charges of second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police investigation found that the shooting took place on Kincaid Avenue, about a half-mile away. Norfolk Police was notified of shots being fired just before 8:30 p.m. that night. The incident was captured on nearby surveillance camera. The document describes Williams pulling up to a group of four men in the video. The car briefly stops then pulls out of frame, the criminal complaint reads. One male leaves the group and approaches where the vehicle pulled off. Several gunshots are then heard, followed by the male returning to the car firing again in the direction of the victim, getting in the drivers seat, and leaving at a high rate of speed, it continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinson was identified through the car he fled the seen in, which was borrowed. The owner of the car said Robinson had failed to pick them up from work that day, but the car was returned later. When [the cars owner] questioned the suspect by phone, he told [them] that he shot Chicago (a known nickname of the victim) in self defense, the document reads. Robinson is scheduled to be arraigned Jan. 9. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHICAGO In a stunning and risky move, ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan has taken the stand in his own public corruption trial Tuesday. Your honor, the defense calls Mike Madigan, attorney Dan Collins said, and jurors snapped to attention. Madigan was sworn in, sat down, unscrewed the top of a bottle of water and began answering questions in a loud, plain Chicago accent. Did you ever trade your public office for private gain? Collins asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madigan turned his face toward the jury box and answered, no. Did you ever demand a thing of value in exchange for a promise to take official action? Collins asked. Did you ever accept a thing of value in exchange for a promise to take official action? To both, Madigan answered no. Dressed in a gray suit and blue and red tie, Madigan looked directly at the jury as he spoke, using his hands and talking conversationally. He testified about his schooling and how he wound up at St. Ignatius College Prep, saying for some reason I had the same nun in 7th and 8th grade she advocated very strongly I go to St. Ignatius. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He described himself as hard-working and disciplined. Madigan said he got his first job as a young teenager in the nursery at Marquette Park. He said his parents were very strict. As it was in those years, they got out the whips and I went to work. Madigan describes his father a Streets and Sanitation supervisor in the 13th Ward as particularly tough. My father had been an alcoholic who had quit drinking but ... he carried with him an anger problem, a short fuse, he said. If someone happened to be in the line of fire it was not a pleasant experience. Madigan said his father dominated the house. He made all the decisions and issued all of the orders. One night, Madigan came home drunk and his father greeted me at the door and I got a good solid slap on the side of my face, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, Madigan went over to his fathers ward office to apologize. It was a very somber meeting He was very concerned that I might have the same problem that he did. Madigan said his father made him promise: Never drink on an empty stomach and never drink before sundown something he still takes to heart today. Was your household nurturing? Collins asked at one point. No, no, no, Madigan said. In that house the word nurturing didnt exist. My parents never told me that they loved me. We never embraced, never hugged. Madigan testified he first ran for state representative in the early 1970s after being a delegate to the Illinois Constitutional Convention. He served for the next 50 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike, how old are you? Collins asked. Madigan replied with a smile, A young 82 years old. Collins asked Madigan about his legislative dealings with ComEd, which is accused of paying Madigan associates through no-work subcontracts for the speakers allies in exchange for Madigans favorable treatment of their legislation. Madigan told jurors he developed a deep distrust of the company after they acted deceitfully toward legislators in the 1990s and early 2000s. He still was willing to call ComEds favored bills to the floor, he said, but insisted that the Speakers Office lawyers examine them with caution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I told our chief counsel to not trust ComEd, to be suspicious and to work to draft legislation that would guarantee theyd do what they said they were going to do, Madigan said. When ComEd wanted the Smart Grid legislation that is now a central part of Madigans indictment, Madigan was open to it but did not personally get involved in the negotiations, he testified. He had talks with then-ComEd executive Anne Pramaggiore about the concepts behind the bill, and also may have talked to ComEd lobbyist John Hooker about the bill, but never talked with him about jobs or hiring, Madigan said. Jurors have already seen floods of undercover videos and heard wiretapped phone calls in which McClain and ComEd executives discuss hiring Madigan associates, allegedly at Madigans request. Former ComEd executive Fidel Marquez testified that the hiring was done so that Madigan would look favorably upon ComEds legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Word spread quickly that Madigan had chosen to testify, and he took the stand in front of a jam-packed courtroom. The rows were crammed with attorneys, journalists and a crew of Madigan supporters, including his daughter Lisa, the former state attorney general. Mid-morning Tuesday, Collins had told the judge that Madigan would be the next witness. But there was one sticking point: whether Madigan would have to waive his right to not testify in a forfeiture hearing, should he be convicted. After a lengthy break for attorneys to discuss, U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey ultimately said Madigan could testify in his trial without necessarily having to waive his right to silence in the forfeiture hearing. The government is seeking up to $2.85 million from Madigan if he is convicted. Before jurors returned from lunch, Blakey put Madigan under oath and advised him of his right not to testify. Madigan nodded throughout, and gave the judge simple yes or no responses to the standard questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision by a defendant to testify on his own behalf is an unusual strategy in any case, let alone a high-profile federal corruption trial. But Madigan, the so-called Velvet Hammer, is known for his quick mind and his mastery of delicate political situations and apparently calculated that the risk of cross-examination was a manageable one. Madigan, who reigned over Illinois politics for decades, is charged with a yearslong scheme to use his public clout for his own private benefit and run his political operation like a criminal enterprise. He could face significant prison time if convicted, even at his advanced age, and any time behind bars could be augmented if the judge were to find he lied on the witness stand. His testimony is the most significant of its kind in Chicagos federal court since former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich unsuccessfully tried to convince a jury of his innocence more than a decade ago. But it may be a bigger surprise, given that Blagojevich is known for talking to anyone who will listen to him about his own legal travails while Madigan is known for saying little at all. Madigan is also battle tested under pressure. For half a century, he fielded hard-edged questions from reporters and withstood decades of scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madigans co-defendant and longtime confidant Michael McClain chose not to testify in the current case. So did ex-Ald. Ed Burke at his trial. Burke was convicted of racketeering in late 2022 and is currently serving a two-year prison sentence. Madigans decision to testify comes nearly two years after two defendants in the Madigan-related ComEd Four trial ex-ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore and lobbyist John Hooker took the witness stand on their own behalf in that trial. The gamble did not pay off for Pramaggiore or Hooker, who were both convicted of every count against them. Also convicted at that trial were McClain and consultant and former City Club of Chicago President Jay Doherty, who opted not to testify. A judge is currently weighing a request to throw out the convictions based on a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madigan, 82, a Southwest Side Democrat, and McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment alleging that 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 high-rise. Both Madigan and McClain have denied wrongdoing. The trial, which began Oct. 8, is inching toward a conclusion, with closing arguments possible as soon as next week. _____ Russian forces are trying to destroy the buildings of Kurakhove in Donetsk Oblast, while the Ukraines defence forces are holding the western part of the town. Source: Major Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces, on the national joint 24/7 newscast Quote from Trehubov: "The Russians are just trying to destroy all the buildings, even low-rise buildings in the city. When the city is completely destroyed, there is simply no place to keep the defence because there are virtually no fortifications. Any house is a fortification, but it is impossible to hold defence there if there are no houses, just scorched earth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The situation in Kurakhove is quite difficult at the moment, as a large part of the town has been destroyed. Ukrainian troops are holding the western part of the town, on its western outskirts. They also control the power plant located in the town." Details: At the same time, the spokesperson stressed that Ukrainian troops continue to destroy Russian manpower and equipment, inflicting losses and repelling Russian assaults. Support UP or become our patron! Thomas Wesley Pentz aka Diplo, November 2024 (Jason Koerner/Getty Images) Note: This article contains references to alleged sexual assault and harassment. Diplo has reached a global resolution in principle to end to a years-long legal dispute with Shelly Auguste, a California woman who accused the DJ of sexual assault, among other claims, and whom Diplo had been suing for stalking, trespassing, and the distribution of revenge porn, Rolling Stone reports. The deal will reportedly avert a civil trial that had been scheduled to begin on Monday, January 13. Pitchfork has reached out to Diplo and Augustes respective attorneys for comment and more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auguste has said that she met Diplo online, in 2014, when she was 17 and he was 35 or 36 years old. She first took legal action against the producer in 2020, when she sought and was granted a temporary restraining order against him. Diplo, in turn, got a restraining order against Auguste, with his lawyer claiming, at the time, that she had been harassing [Diplo] and his family for more than a year and has repeatedly refused to stop doing so. In early 2021, Diplo and Auguste signed a dual restraining order agreement, agreeing not to disparage each other. The following year, however, an arbitrator determined that Auguste had breached the agreement, resulting in a $1.2 million monetary award to Diplo. As Rolling Stone notes: Its not clear what the status of the award was when the parties entered negotiations for the new global resolution. The dueling lawsuits that are reportedly in the process of being settled were filed in the period between the dual restraining order agreement and the arbitration ruling. In April 2021, Diplo sued Auguste for stalking, trespassing, and distributing private materials. Months later, in June, Auguste responded with a lawsuit of her own, claiming that Diplo had sexually assaulted her, in July 2019, while she was highly intoxicated. Diplo publicly denied Augustes allegations a few months after she filed her lawsuit. Beyond the civil litigation, Auguste filed multiple police reports accusing Diplo of distributing revenge porn. She filed her first police report in July 2021 and her second in August 2023. The Los Angeles city attorneys office declined to pursue charges in both instances. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, we encourage you to reach out for support: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline https://www.rainn.org 1 800 656 HOPE (4673) Crisis Text Line SMS: Text HELLO or HOLA to 741-741 If you are being sexually harassed, you can report it to the authorities at your job, school, or local law enforcement. For more information go to https://www.rainn.org/ThatsHarassment Originally Appeared on Pitchfork Some mallgoers in a Santa Clarita Valley neighborhood were surprised by a trio of motorcyclists riding through the food court Saturday night. The chaotic scene unfolded at the Town Center Mall in Valencia where three suspects on two dirt bikes, likely juveniles, were captured on cellphone video obtained by KTLA cruising through the food court area at a relatively high speed. A restaurant manager at the mall, Chris Hernandez, said the fast-driving suspects evaded mall security, which was slow to respond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was loud. I saw the motorcycles come up through the mall, the restaurant manager told KTLAs Sandra Mitchell. To me, its a big no, no because theres little kids all over the place and somebodys going to end up getting hurt. Three suspects, likely juveniles, seen riding through a Valencia mall on dirt bikes on Jan. 4, 2025. (Insta @SCV_Incidents) Three suspects, likely juveniles, seen riding through a Valencia mall on dirt bikes on Jan. 4, 2025. (Insta @SCV_Incidents) Three suspects, likely juveniles, seen riding through a Valencia mall on dirt bikes on Jan. 4, 2025. (Insta @SCV_Incidents) Three suspects, likely juveniles, seen riding through a Valencia mall on dirt bikes on Jan. 4, 2025. (Insta @SCV_Incidents) Three suspects, likely juveniles, seen riding through a Valencia mall on dirt bikes on Jan. 4, 2025. (Insta @SCV_Incidents) Other mall employees who spoke to KTLA say this is not even the first time that dirt bikes riders have made their way inside the mall. Orange County teacher arrested for sexually explicit texts with 14-year-old boy Theyre very bold, Matthew Montano, who works at a restaurant in the mall, said. Its usually happened in the last year, though, a little frequently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, authorities with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department have not made any arrests, though Sgt. Guillermo Martinez said the three suspects could face felony charges if caught. People are there for the shopping experience. Theyre not going to expect having a motorcycle ride right past them, he told KTLA. That could be threat of serious danger, injury to them as well as to the riders of the motorcycles. Just an hour after the mall incident, a teenager on a motorcycle who was reportedly driving in the wrong way in traffic at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Oak Ridge Drive was killed. Several posts on social media report that it was one of the drivers in the mall motorcycle incident, though law enforcement officials have yet to confirm that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robbery suspect in Southern California flees in driverless Waymo vehicle What officials with the sheriffs department did say, however, is that they will be increasing patrols in the area. We will be out there, and we will take a zero-tolerance approach, Sgt. Martinez told KTLA. If we see it, we will either cite, confiscate, arrest or impound depending on what the circumstances are, but we are ramping up enforcement. Authorities added that they are seeing more of this type of dangerous activity, especially since e-bikes, many of which resemble dirt bikes, have become more common and that deputies on motorcycles and ATVs will be enlisted to chase the suspects down. 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 KTLA. Jan. 6DIXON The Dixon Rotary Club is doing its part to fight food insecurity in the Sauk Valley area. The Dixon Rotary is a local chapter of Rotary International, a non-profit engaging in community service, youth programs and international projects while fostering networking among professionals. Last year, Dixon Rotary raised over $2,000 to help support two local food security programs: Buddy Bags of Dixon and the Dixon Community Food Pantry. Buddy Bags Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buddy Bags is a 501(c)(3) providing weekend meals for Dixon School District students whose families may need assistance. The program is locally run and gives participating students two breakfasts, two lunches, two snacks and two drinks at the end of each week. The food is purchased locally or donated by individuals, groups and organizations. Volunteers pack the meals and provide them to the schools for distribution. Dixon Rotary President Mary Oros said the program aligns with her organization's commitment to supporting food security initiatives. "We were moved by what these women have done to help children in our community," Oros said. "They started with 50 or 60 kids, and it has grown to serve well over 200 children every week." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite those numbers, Oros said the 2023 Dixon High School District Report Card suggests that upwards of 50% of enrolled students are financially eligible for the program. For more information or to donate, call 815-677-3699 or visit buddybagsofdixon.org. Dixon Community Food Pantry Oros said Dixon Food Pantry used its donation to help pay for a new freezer. The pantry provides food to those in need from communities across Lee County. Pantry Director Josie Whaley said that in 2024, the pantry provided food to 3,928 families and 12,457 individuals. "We also received 72,150 pounds in donated food, from individuals, groups and businesses," Oros said. "That's not even including our postal food drive." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dixon Community Food Pantry is located at 2001 W. Fourth St. It is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-3 p.m. except for major holidays or if Dixon schools are closed for inclement weather. For more information, call 815-288-4848. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) has not been found in Georgia and the Georgia Department of Resources (DNR) is asking for the publics help to keep it that way. CWD has been found in every state bordering except for South Carolina, DNR said. We need your help to slow the spread of CWD and prevent it from being introduced into our State, the Wildlife Resources Division of DNR said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres what DNR is saying you could do to help slow the spread of CWD: Report sick looking deer to the DNRs Game Management Offices at https://georgiawildlife.com/about/contact Dont move deer waste carcass parts from one area to another, leave them where the deer was killed or end up in a landfill for household waste. Never import live deer into Georgia. Importing live deer of any species into Georgia is illegal. Report any importation of live deer to DNRs Law Enforcement Division (1-800-241-4113). Debone meat, clean skull plates, remove all soft tissue from skull mounts. Never bring whole deer carcasses or deer heads into Georgia from out of state. It is illegal. If you witness a deer with any of these symptoms, report it to your local office: dramatic weight loss or wasting poor body condition subtle head tremors head and ear dropping excessive drooling CWD can take a while to fully develop but is fatal to deer, DNR said. The disease can take more than two years to kill a deer, so most deer with CWD seem normal. While DNR is asking for the publics help preventing CWD to enter Georgia, it has never been transmitted to humans. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Florida doctor is accused of coercing at least 10 minors to produce child sexual abuse material, including a 13-year-old girl who died after he instructed her to hang herself, federal prosecutors announced Monday. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, a palliative care doctor in the Tampa Bay area who allegedly went by maximumuncle#9112, was charged with three counts of production of child sexual abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity. Leedys attorneys Bjorn Brunvand and Lucas Fleming told HuffPost in a statement that their client adamantly denies the charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is particularly important in moments like this when someone is being accused of very troubling allegations, that we afford him the presumption of innocence, the statement read. We will be entering a not guilty plea at the earliest opportunity and look forward to vigorously defending Dr. Leedy in court. In a motion for detention from the U.S. attorneys office for the Middle District of Florida, obtained by HuffPost, Leedy is accused of instructing the minors to produce sexually explicit images of themselves and, in many cases, directing them to cut, choke and hang themselves. He never revealed his true identity online and concealed himself when video chatting by using a black screen, the U.S. attorneys office said. The investigation began in November 2022, when the 13-year-old girl was discovered dead inside her bathroom with her phone propped up in front of her, according to the motion. Authorities who searched the phone discovered she had been engaging in sexually explicit conversations with someone whom prosecutors allege is Leedy. In the conversations, the girl was directed to produce graphic images of herself and engage in daily hangings, according to the motion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search of a social media account that allegedly belonged to Leedy revealed more conversations instructing minors to harm themselves for the users sexual gratification. The conversations continually revolved around his control over the minor victim, commenting on how obedient they are and asking at least one minor victim to refer to him as my Lord, prosecutors wrote in the motion. Prosecutors did not specify what social media platform Leedy allegedly used to communicate with the minors. Court records show Leedy was taken into custody on Dec. 20. He was in Georgia at the time of his arrest and is awaiting extradition to Florida, according to court records. Brunvand confirmed to HuffPost that his client is currently in custody in a federal prison in Atlanta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to WFTS-TV, an ABC affiliate in Tampa, Leedys wife, Lynda Leedy, is chief administrative officer of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County, which includes Tampa. In a statement addressing the allegations, the boards chief executive, Beth Houghton, told WFTS that Ms. Leedy is a valued member of JWBs Executive Leadership Team, where she holds herself and others to the highest standards of ethical and professional behavior and possesses impeccable integrity. While this news leaves us stunned and saddened for Ms. Leedy, her family, and any potential victims in this case, I have the utmost confidence in her ability to continue to carry out JWBs mission of strengthening the lives of our countys children and families. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention. Related... Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are surging in China right now. The virus was discovered in 2001. It can be hard to tell HMPV from the flu, RSV, or COVID-19. Cases of a respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms are surging in China, raising plenty of questions about what this could mean for the rest of the world. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been spreading in northern China, especially among children, pushing the countrys center for disease control to urge citizens to take precautions. While HMPV isnt well-known to the general public, its not a new illness. In fact, cases of HMPV surged in the U.S. last spring. Infectious disease experts also stress that this is unlikely to cause another pandemic. Meet the experts: Thomas Russo, M.D., an infectious disease expert at the University of Buffalo in New York; Amesh A. Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease expert and senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, its understandable to have questions about HMPV, including symptoms and treatment. Heres what doctors want you to know. What is HMPV? HMPV is a type of virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Anyone can contract HMPV. But, younger children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at risk of becoming more seriously ill. HMPV was first discovered in 2001, and its in the same class of viruses as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), per the CDC. HMPV is one of the viruses that can cause the common cold, says Amesh A. Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease expert and senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. But it is capable of causing a spectrum of illnesslike all common-cold virusesthat range from the common cold to pneumonia. Still, HMPV is usually less severe than COVID, influenza, and RSV, says Thomas Russo, M.D., an infectious disease expert at the University of Buffalo in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Russo says there are both molecular tests (PCR) and antigen tests for the virus, but these are usually only used as part of in-hospital respiratory diagnostic panels. How does HMPV spread? HMPV spreads through secretions from coughing and sneezing, close personal contact (like touching or shaking hands), and by touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes, according to the CDC. What are HMPV symptoms? These are the most common symptoms of HMPV, per the CDC: Cough Fever Nasal congestion Shortness of breath HMPV may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia, Dr. Russo says. But Dr. Adalja says it can be tricky to tell HMPV apart from most other respiratory infections, noting that it has no distinguishing symptoms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once you get HMPV, you develop some degree of immunity and will likely get a less severe infection in the future, Dr. Russo says. Is HMPV curable? For most people, HMPV is a self-limited respiratory infection, Dr. Adalja says. Meaning, it may simply feel like a bad cold or the flu and get better without treatment. With that, treatment is usually supportive care, like getting plenty of rest and trying to drink lots of fluids, Dr. Russo says. You may also want to take acetaminophen to help with a fever if you have one. If someone is quite ill, they would get oxygen support or medications to decrease wheezing, Dr. Russo says. There is no vaccine to prevent HMPV nor is there specific treatment for the virus. Should the U.S. be worried? Infectious disease doctors say theres no reason to be worried about the uptick in HMPV cases in China. We have HMPV cases here, Dr. Russo says. The virus has been around for a while. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Adalja also says that the uptick in cases in China appears to be the normal dynamics of this virus and not a particular cause of worry for the U.S. If youre concerned about getting HMPV, Dr. Russo says that the usual prevention methods for respiratory viruses will lower your risk. Those include doing your best to avoid people who are obviously sick, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth after you touch other surfaces. If youre high risk, you may want to consider avoiding crowded indoor settings and judicious mask use, Dr. Russo says. Doctors emphasize that most Americans do not need to stress about HMPV. We dont need to be concerned that this is the next pandemic, Dr. Russo says. You Might Also Like SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) It will be a long, cold night for fire crews in western KELOLAND as they monitor whats left of a house fire. 18-year-old arrested in east Sioux Falls shooting The Rockerville volunteer Fire Department responded around 1 Monday afternoon. Other area agencies were also called in to help. While the fire has been contained, officials expect it will continue to burn overnight. No injuries were reported, but the homeowners dog died in the fire. 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. Dolton Mayor and Thornton Township Supervisor Tiffany Henyard was a no-show at Mondays village and township board meetings. The emergency township meeting, called by two trustees to address insurance coverage issues, was canceled due to lack of quorum after about 40 people gathered inside the South Holland Public Library. The Dolton meeting went on despite an effort by her to cancel it, citing safety threats. Tiffany has got to go Dolton trustees conducted village business, such as paying bills, but rather than a board meeting the atmosphere inside the Dolton Park Districts Lester Long Fieldhouse was more along the lines of a political pep rally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents sang and there were chants aimed at ousting Henyard, with the meeting taking place ahead of a Feb. 25 primary where Henyard faces a challenge for reelection from Trustee Jason House. A crowd larger than those seen at recent board meetings filled the fieldhouse, and several residents spoke in support of the House-led Clean House 2025 ticket. Henyard issued a notice saying she was canceling the meeting, claiming police had received credible threats against multiple elected officials. I will not put any residents, elected officials or visitors at risk of harm in our village, the mayor wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House issued notice that trustees had not been made aware of any threats and, as the meeting got underway, pointed out that uniformed Dolton police officers were on hand. Attorney Michael McGrath, whose law firm is legislative counsel to trustees, told a crowd of more than 200 that police would not allow the meeting to proceed if there had been a credible threat. Those in the crowd, before the meeting started, sang along to Bill Withers Lean on Me and Steams Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye. There were chants of Hey hey, ho ho, Tiffany has got to go. That would have been unthinkable a few months ago, when meetings were held at Village Hall and people had to pass through metal detectors to enter. Uniformed officers kept a close eye on proceedings and outbursts were met with a rebuke from police and sometimes removal from the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents had promoted the meeting as an opportunity to protest against Henyard, using the hashtag #doltonrising and encouraging people to bring newspapers to hold up over their face anytime Henyard tried to speak. Fewer township services The agenda of the Thornton Township emergency meeting called Monday included approval of auto insurance and property insurance for the township as well as a tax levy for the general fund and general assistance fund. Trustee Chris Gonzalez, who called for the meeting with Trustee Carmen Carlisle, said township buildings remain closed and vehicles are unable to operate due to lack of insurance. Gonzalez said even if agenda items were approved, Thornton Township would still be short on extremely crucial liability and workers compensation insurance coverage. Even if we did have a quorum today, we would not have been able to address some of the major insurance issues that we have going on, Gonzalez said to meeting attendees. It was a start. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The continued lack of auto insurance leaves residents over age 60 without the Thornton Township senior transportation program, which provided curbside service to medical appointments and shopping via township buses and vans. Henyard did not respond to questions about her missing the township meeting. During the last meeting that convened on Dec. 20, Henyard blamed township trustees for the lack of insurance due to their choosing to skip meetings she called. Gonzalez has refused to attend meetings over the past several months that he believes were called for political reasons rather than to settle the townships insurance and financial business. Henyard has repeatedly tried to force a vote on a new trustee since former Trustee Gerald Jones resigned in October, Gonzalez said, as well as pushed initiatives like a 100% tax refund for all homeowners without providing basic information about how it would work. Theres always a different crisis in order to try to force something else through, Gonzalez said. I get that on the surface, it doesnt look the best; however, when you kind of peel back the layers of the onion, youre trying to get to what is really going on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the lack of quorum, Gonzalez and Carlisle provided an opportunity for public comment at the library. Several people complained of Henyards general lack of transparency as Thornton Township supervisor and Dolton mayor and expressed support for Gonzalez and Carlisle, who have been critical of the administration, sparking verbal pushback from two of Henyards allies in attendance. Resident Paul Robertz questioned whether, since Henyard was appointed to the supervisor position in 2021, Thornton Township should be abolished. He said many of the services the township provides residents can be obtained elsewhere, and eliminating the municipality could prevent wasteful spending. If we have to endure four more months of a stubborn supervisor, we need to either establish a survival strategy for Thornton Township or agree to abolish it, Robertz said. We must continue to watch how she spends tax dollars, knowing that theres no county or state law enforcement (stepping in) and knowing that she has made it difficult for us to do our research. Lori Lightfoot probe At the Dolton meeting, many residents aimed remarks critical of Henyard and in support of the Clean House slate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Dolton Trustee Valeria Stubbs said that voters need to come out in droves for next months primary and to support the entire ticket. We cant pick and choose, she said. This woman (Henyard) robbed us blind. Trustees hired former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot to examine Dolton finances and Henyards administration, and Lightfoot last summer detailed how the village went from having budget surpluses to a spending deficit. House said on Monday Lightfoot will present her final report at a town hall meeting Jan. 27 at the Lester Long Fieldhouse, 14700 Evers St. He said the time of the meeting is not set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dolton resident Dan Lee, also commenting about the upcoming primary, used the word exorcism and that were in the midst of that process now. Were in a movement, he told the audience. You are part of a movement now. With weeks to go before next months primary, Trustee Kiana Belcher told those in the audience that its not going to be pretty. This next 50 days will be trying times for all of us, said Belcher, who is seeking reelection. We cant have another four years of what weve been through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Belcher and Clerk Alison Key, also up for reelection, said if they keep their positions theyll continue to need residents support. Were going to have to dig ourselves out of this mess the next four years, Belcher said. We dont want you to leave once we take the seats, Key said, referencing the primary and April 1 election. It just doesnt end in February or April, we have a long road ahead. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Early Monday morning Panama City Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance in the 2200 block of Edgewood Drive. When deputies arrived around 1:25 a.m., they found 34-year-old Michael Williams, who had multiple stab wounds. Williams was transported to a local hospital by EMS. Officials said the suspect, 33-year-old, Zachary Flowers, fled the scene in a vehicle. PCPD officers quickly located the vehicle and when they initiated a traffic stop, the suspect fled and lost control of the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Panama City man arrested, facing several counts of possessing child porn Authorities said Flowers crashed near 13th Street and Lisenby Avenue. PCPD with help from Panama City Fire Department, extracted Flowers from the wreckage before transporting him to a local hospital. Flowers has been taken into custody and charged with attempted murder and fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer. Investigators determined the victim and suspect had been involved in a domestic relationship and the altercation was isolated to the two individuals, with no threat to the broader community. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information on this case should call the Panama City Police Department at 850-872-3100 or report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 850-785-TIPS. 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 mypanhandle.com. Donald Trump Jr will visit Greenland Tuesday, even as his father triggers local anger by renewing his push to make the Danish territory part of the U.S. The elder Trump 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! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Danish government confirmed to CNN that Trumps eldest son would arrive on Tuesday, but declined to comment further as it was "not an official American visit. Trump has advocated for the United States to take over Greenland, even calling it an absolute necessity, despite outright opposition from Greenland's people and its government. "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 said ominously last month. Greenland's prime minister Mute Egede responded: "we are not for sale and never will be for sale." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The King of Denmark also changed the country's royal coat of arms to make the symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, another Danish territory, more prominent, in an apparent rebuke to Trump. Nevertheless, on Monday Trump claimed: "I am hearing that the people of Greenland are 'Maga, referring to his diehard supporters. He attached a video in his post of a lone Greenlander in a MAGA hat urging him to "buy Greenland" because "we don't want to be colonized by the Danish government anymore. Greenland is currently an autonomous territory of Denmark, which has claimed sovereignty over the island for hundreds of years and began actively colonizing it in 1721. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vikings from Iceland and Norway first settled in Greenland in 986, but their colonies eventually collapsed, and most of the countrys modern residents are of Inuit or mixed Inuit and European descent. There is a long history of U.S. politicians seeking control over the island due to its strategic location, which offers access to the Arctic and guards one flank of the watery "gap" that links Russian naval bases to the Atlantic Ocean. At present Greenland hosts the world's most northern U.S. military base, which includes key early warning systems designed to spot missile and space-based attacks from foreign adversaries. Last Friday, New York Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over Donald Trumps hush money trial, refused to quash the indictment and set aside the jury verdict which made the president-elect a convicted felon. He announced he would sentence Trump on January 10 and, on Monday the judge denied Trumps motion for a stay. Along the way, he delivered a stern rebuke to our soon-to-be president and an important reminder to the rest of us that in a free country, even the most powerful people cannot erase their past. Merchans ruling, as the New York Times reported, denies the president-elect the opportunity to clear his record before returning to the White House. To dismiss the indictment and set aside the jury verdict, Merchan wrote, would not serve the concerns set forth by the Supreme Court in its handful of cases addressing presidential immunity nor would it serve the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan has set an example of resistance on the cusp of a second Trump presidency. His ruling will serve this country well as we enter a period in which the occupant of the Oval Office intends to bend judges and others to his will and in which serving him will be the standard against which government officials, journalists, and others will be judged. Trump got the message, but he did not like it. He lashed out at the legal proceedings that resulted in his conviction and at Merchan. "Every major legal pundit has stated strongly there was no case, there is no case, and this was just a witch hunt," Trump claimed to Fox Digital News. Then, getting personal, he turned his fire on Merchan. "The judge, Trump claimed, without any evidence, is the most conflicted judge in the history of jurisprudence. He created a case out of nothing because he wanted my political opponent to win." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, not surprisingly, the president claimed that "Nobody has ever gone through what I go throughthis is a disgrace." No, Merchans ruling is the very opposite of a disgrace. What Merchan said, and the fact that he set the sentencing date mere days before Trumps return to power, will remind everyone of the disgrace that he will bring with him to the White House. Before looking more closely at Merchans decision, let me say more about the role of history and memory in a democracy. Writing in 2019, Jeffries Martin observed that in a democracy, respecting and learning from the past is a singular virtue. Historical work, Martin explained, has long served as a major intellectual bulwark for democratic republics. He conceded that such work would not in itself preserve our democracy. But when fostered in a critical and democratic spirit, they constitute an important piece of what we might call a culture of resistance and liberty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a democracy, we can argue over what history means or what parts of the past should be venerated and which should not be, as fights over monuments have shown. But, no one gets to re-write history or erase memory to suit their convenience or serve their partisan purposes. In authoritarian or totalitarian regimes, history and memory belong to the powerful. Rewriting and whitewashing the past, whether of a nation or its leaders, is standard operating procedure. As Jason Stanley puts it, Authoritarianserase history seeking to separate us from our own history to destroy our self-understanding and leave us unmoored, resentful, and confused. In a free society, history and memory are treasures. They remind us of who we are by reminding us of what we have done. This is as true for the stories of individuals as it is for social and political histories. In a free country, history speaks freely. Its judgments can be generous or harsh, but they are meant to be heard. That is true whether those judged are poor or powerful, heroic or infamous. And that makes facing his and Americas past so painful and problematic for the man who will be this countrys forty-seventh president. As the New Yorkers Susan Glaser explains, Rewriting historyand, at times, even outright inverting itis one of the signatures of Trumpism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he has allies in that effort. Glaser notes that one of House Speaker Mike Johnsons early acts was to try to rewrite history to suit Trumps version of eventsa project that will be crucial in determining whether Trump can overcome the stigma of a criminal conviction. Johnsons House Republican majority went so far as to decree the fact of Trumps trial off-limits. In one instance, they had a reference to Trumps various criminal cases taken downthat is, struck from the official record. Erasing his past is what Trump and his lawyers asked Merchan to do. But that is precisely what Merchan refused to do. On virtually every page of Merchans 18-page opinion, the judge shows a reverence for the past, whether it be the past recorded in relevant judicial opinions or Trumps New York criminal trial. On the third page, he reiterates the central truth about Trumps past, which he will not obliterate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says in, straightforward and simple prose, thatthe Defendant has been found guilty on 34 felony countsby a unanimous jury of Defendant's peers, after trial. Merchan insists that the significance of that cannot possibly be overstated. He rightly calls respecting that verdict a bedrock principle in our Nation's jurisprudence. In evaluating Trumps claim that the Supreme Courts presidential immunity decision requires that the verdict be set aside, Merchan carefully parsed applicable precedent. He showed us that in a court of law, judges are not free to ignore precedents with which they disagree or to make the past disappear. That is why Merchan could conclude that dismissing the indictment and setting aside the jury verdict would not serve the concerns set forth by the Supreme Court in its handful of cases addressing Presidential immunity nor would it serve the Rule of Law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before ending, Merchan showed his fidelity to the past that Trump wanted him to erase by reiterating that A jury heard evidence for nearly seven weeks and pronounced its verdict That fidelity is why, as Merchan notes, Trump has great disdain for the Third Branch of government and takes every opportunity, as he did on the Fox Digital Network, to broadcast his lack of respect for judges, juries, grand juries and the justice system as a whole. And the judge did one other thing that produced Trumps rage. He insisted on setting this matter down for the imposition of sentence prior to January 20, 2025. To be clear, Marchan has already stated that he does not intend to imprison the president-elect. Still, Marchans move means that before Trump again swears to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, he will learn that under its terms, he has no power to erase the past and escape its judgment. Judge Merchan did us all a service by delivering that lesson. President-elect Donald Trump told residents of Greenland that were going to treat you well as his oldest son visited the mineral-rich Danish territory thats home to a large U.S. military base, heightening speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to acquire it. The president-elect later told a news conference he wouldn't rule out using military force or economic coercion to take control of Greenland, saying that we need it for national security. Earlier, the president-elect posted a video showing a TRUMP-emblazoned plane landing in Nuuk, the Arctic territorys capital, in a landscape of snow-capped peaks and fjords. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland, Trump wrote. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Supporters later posted video of Trump speaking by phone to locals. In a statement, Greenlands government said Donald Trump Jr.s visit was taking place as a private individual and not as an official visit, and Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Trump Jr. was in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly. Trumps eldest son has become a prominent player in his fathers political movement and has served on his presidential transition team. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary of the ministry of statehood and foreign affairs, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr.s delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect has voiced a desire also expressed during his first presidency to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the U.S, China, Russia and others. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, and called the United States Denmarks most important ally. Greenland is not for sale, Frederiksen said, adding that we need to stay calm and stick to our principles The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet. The autonomous territory has some 56,000 residents, most of them Indigenous Inuit people. Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Independence has become a key issue ahead of an election for the Greenlandic parliament. A date hasnt been set, but it must take place no later than April 6. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, told the AP she has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the U.S. and said she hears the same sentiment from her constituents. Most people dont want it, she said. I think some people find it quite disrespectful. And the way it has been done, and just the fact that youre saying that you can buy another country. A former colony of Denmark, Greenland in 1979 gained self-rule, which is exercises through its parliament. Copenhagen still exercises control over Greenlands foreign and defense policy. A treaty with the United States, with the U.S. base, also gives Washington say over the territorys defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdoms rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. The kings power is mostly symbolic. Last month, the king by royal decree changed Denmarks coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, the king said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. The idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland located near the North American landmass is not new, with early attempts in the late 19th century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his first term, Trump mused about purchasing Greenland. He canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after the prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. The eldest son of President-elect Donald Trump arrived in Greenland on Tuesday for a private visit that heightened speculation that the incoming U.S. administration could seek to take control of the mineral-rich Danish territory thats home to a large U.S. military base. The Danish state broadcaster reported that Donald Trump Jr.s plane landed in Nuuk, capital of the vast and icy Arctic territory that has some 57,000 residents. Local media broadcast footage of him walking across a snowy tarmac. In a statement, Greenlands government said Trump Jr.s visit would take place as a private individual and not as an official visit and that Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Greenland is an autonomous territory thats part of Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Jr. is in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary for the Greenland foreign affairs department, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr. would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr.s delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect recently voiced a desire also expressed during his first presidency to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the U.S, China, Russia and others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The worlds largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet. 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, the president-elect posted on his social media site Monday night, referring to his Make America Great Again movement. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation, Trump wrote. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Years speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, and called the United States Denmarks most important ally. Denmarks King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdoms rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. Last month, the king changed Denmarks coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolized the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, the king said in his New Years address, adding: all the way to Greenland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his first term, the U.S. president-elect mused about purchasing Greenland, which gained home rule from Denmark in 1979. He canceled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after its prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for U.S. ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. 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. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President-elect Donald Trump's son Donald Trump Jr. is visiting Greenland amid his father's renewed interest in the territory. Donald's eldest son arrived in Greenland's capital of Nuuk on Tuesday, Jan. 7, local outlets reported, on his father's plane, "Trump Force One." His trip to the autonomous region a Danish territory comes after Donald repeatedly expressed his desire to acquire Greenland for the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Donald Trump Says Canada Should Be '51st State' as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Resigns Greenland officials will not meet with Don Jr., the territory's government said in a statement. Neither party requested a meeting, said Mininnguaq Kleist, the permanent secretary for Greenland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs department. He told the Associated Press that Greenland authorities understood Don. Jr's visit would last four to five hours. "The visit of Donald Trump Jr. is a private visit and that is being respected by Naalakkersuisut the Government of Greenland. Therefore, there will also not be reactions to the visit," Kleist told CBS News. "Our country is open for visits, and visitors are welcome in our beautiful country." EMIL STACH/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty A Trump airplane lands in Nuuk, Greenland. A Trump airplane lands in Nuuk, Greenland. The AP reported that Don Jr. is on a day trip to collect video content for podcasting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his first term, the president-elect expressed a desire to acquire Greenland, though Danish officials quickly shut down the idea. Nevertheless, Donald fueled ongoing speculation that he has his sights on the territory. "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," the president-elect wrote on Truth Social on Jan. 6, one day before his son's trip. He continued, "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!" Related: Donald Trump Jr. Brings New Girlfriend Bettina Anderson to Mar-a-Lago for New Year's Eve Celebration 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. Greenland has become a point of interest for Russia, China and the U.S. alike, as its location situated between the U.S. and Europe, and its proximity to the Arctic makes the region strategically significant. Its oil, natural gas and mineral resources are also internationally attractive, CBS News reported. However, Prime Minister Mute Egede said in a statement in December, Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale," per Reuters. Read the original article on People Donald Trump Jr. will visit Greenland this week after his father, President-elect Donald Trump, suggested last month that the U.S. should take ownership of the Danish territory for the purpose of national security. Trump Jr. will head to the island on Tuesday for a short video shoot for a podcast and has no plans to meet with any government officials, The Associated Press reported. Denmarks foreign ministry added to CNN that the trip is not an official American visit and, as such, it had no further comment on the matter. The president-elect confirmed the visit in a post on his Truth Social platform, saying he had heard the people of Greenland are MAGA while vowing that the island would benefit tremendously under U.S. control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights, the elder Trump wrote. 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! Greenland is ours, Mute Egede, Greenlands prime minister, declared in a statement last month. LEIFF JOSEFSEN/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images Trump re-upped his suggestion that the U.S. take control of Greenland late last month after first saying in 2019 that he was weighing a large real estate deal to buy the autonomous territory. 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, the president-elect said last month while announcing his choice for U.S. ambassador to Denmark. Both then and now the comments have come as a surprise to officials in Greenland and Denmark, who have dismissed the suggestions and said the island was not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is ours, Mute Egede, Greenlands prime minister, said in a statement last month. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our years-long fight for freedom. Related... Donald Trump, Jr., son of President-elect Donald Trump, arrived in Greenland on Tuesday after emphasizing that the trip is just a personal one, indicating he is not meeting with government officials. His trip comes as his father continues to float the possibility of the U.S. purchasing and taking over Greenland, an autonomous territory administered by Denmark. Trump had also suggested the possibility during his first administration. PHOTO: An aircraft carrying businessman Donald Trump Jr. arrives in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 7, 2025. (Emil Stach/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Imagees) PHOTO: Businessman Donald Trump Jr. walks on the tarmac as he arrives in Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 7, 2025. (Emil Stach/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images) About the same time as his eldest son landed, the president-elect, celebrating his son and his advisers' trip to Greenland, floated a "deal" that he claims "must happen," while not elaborating on what deal that is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen," Trump wrote in a social media post Tuesday morning. "MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!" Shortly afterward, Trump called into his son's and his advisers' gathering with local supporters in Greenland, again suggesting that the United States must secure Greenland. "It's a very special place. It needs security for itself, but it also needs security very much for the world," Donald Trump is heard saying in a social media video that captured the moment. "The location really -- you see the people and the ships sailing around, and they're not the right ships, and they're not the ships you want to know about," the former president continued. "So we need security, and our country needs it, and all the world needs it strategically." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're going to treat you well. You know that. Just take care of yourselves," Donald Trump said, concluding the call. MORE: Trump says he'll change name to 'Gulf of America,' threatens 'all hell will break loose' over Israeli hostages Then, shortly after that, at a Mar-a-Lago news conference, Trump declined to rule out using military force to acquire Greenland. He also raised the possibility of imposing tariffs "at a very high level" on Denmark to acquire Greenland, claiming Denmark might not have any "legal right" to Greenland. "Well, we need Greenland for national security purposes ...You have approximately 45,000 people there. People really don't even know if Denmark has any legal right to it. But if they do, they should give it up because we need it for national security. That's for the free world. I'm talking about protecting the free world," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But nobody knows if they even have any right, title or interest, the people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the United States. But if they did, if they did do that, then I would tariff Denmark at a very high level," Trump continued. Danish officials have continued to emphasize that Greenland is not for sale. Traveling on a Trump plane, Donald Trump Trump Jr. landed in Nuuk, Greenland, Tuesday morning, joined by incoming White House Director of the Presidential Personnel Office Sergio Gor, incoming White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative, Political and Public Affairs James Blair, and conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Trump Jr. posted photos of himself and others in Greenland on X on Tuesday, writing, "Greenland is beautiful!!!" PHOTO: Donald Trump Jr. visits Nuuk, Greenland, Jan. 7, 2025. (Emil Stach/Ritzau Scanpix via AP) On Monday, Trump Jr. discussed the visit while emphasizing that it is not a political trip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No, I am not buying Greenland," Donald Trump Jr. said on Monday on his podcast show on Rumble. "Funny enough, I'm actually going on a very long personal day trip to Greenland tomorrow [Tuesday]." MORE: Trump again suggests US should own and control Greenland "So, I'm going as a tourist. But apparently someone leaked that, so it made all sorts of news, so I figured I'd address it here. No meetings with the government officials, none of that. But I do love Greenland," Trump Jr. said. A source familiar with the matter told ABC News that Donald Trump Jr. is visiting Greenland just for the day to shoot videos for a podcast and reiterated he's not scheduled to meet with any government officials or political figures. PHOTO: The Greenland flag flying in the town of Igaliku, Greenland, July 5,2024. (EPA via Shutterstock) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Trump, on Monday, mentioned his son's visit in a post on his social media platform, and wrote, "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation." The president-elect had reintroduced his proposal to take over Greenland in December during his announcement of Ken Howery as United States Ambassador to Denmark. "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. Ken will do a wonderful job in representing the interests of the United States," Trump wrote in the announcement. PHOTO: President-elect Donald Trump looks on during Turning Point USA's AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center on Dec. 22, 2024 in Phoenix. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images, FILE) MORE: 4 years after Jan. 6 insurrection, Kamala Harris certifies Trump's election win Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Christmas, Trump claimed in a social media post that Greenland needs the United States to be there for "national security purposes," before adding, "and we will!" During his first administration, Trump tried to buy the country; however, the United States ended up giving the island $12 million for economic development instead. Officials from Greenland and Denmark have pushed back both explicitly and implicitly against Trump's stated desire to purchase the territory. In December, Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede wrote in a statement, "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, The Independent reported on Tuesday that the king of Denmark has adjusted the Danish coat of arms to show symbols representing Greenland and the Faroe Islands, the two autonomous territories administered by Denmark. Donald Trump Jr. visits Greenland as his father says deal for US to buy it 'must happen' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Donald Trump has dispatched his eldest son Donald Trump Jr on a visit to Greenland as the president-elect continues to express an interest in acquiring the autonomous Arctic territory from Denmark. The incoming commander-in-chief first trailed the visit on his Truth Social platform on Monday evening by posting: 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 followed that up on Tuesday morning with another post featuring a video of his private plane landing in the capital Nuuk that read: Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Don Jr himself soon posted a video of himself there on Instagram, posing beneath a statue of the Lutheran missionary Hans Egede who is credited with first settling the barren territory in 1721 before spinning his phone camera around to showcase the incredible scenery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk also turned out to be among Don Jrs entourage and posted a picture of themselves together on the same platform. Donald Trump Jr and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk in Greenland on January 7 2025 (charliekirk1776/Instagram) Don Jr described the fly-in visit as a personal day-trip to greet the locals and said no meetings were planned with government officials. His appearance has already inspired anger in Copenhagen, however, with Danish MP Rasmus Jarlov writing on X: This level of disrespect from the coming US president towards very, very loyal allies and friends is record-setting. Although it is still two weeks before Trump is even inaugurated as Americas next president, he is already clearly looking ahead to his next administration and the prospect of landing a major legacy achievement like expanding the geographic reach of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He previously expressed an interest in buying Greenland in 2019 during his first term, even posting a meme imaging a Trump International Hotel towering above its chilly landscape, only to be rebuffed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who remains in power and appears unlikely to have changed her mind about the prospect in the interim. Trump was infuriated by that rejection and began insisting again last month that the US needs the land for national security reasons, hoping to make it the first terrain the United States has bought since it acquired the Virgin Islands, also from Denmark, at great expense in 1917. Trump Force One in Nuuk, Greenland, on January 7 2025 (Ritzau Scanpix/AFP/Getty) We are not for sale, the islands prime minister Mute Egede reiterated in December. Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Undeterred, the president-elect has also talked about merging the US with Canada in recent days, capitalizing on the political instability caused by Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus resignation this week to post on Truth Social on Monday: 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 US, 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!!! Since winning a second presidential term, Donald Trump has made a curious pivot to a kind of performative imperialism. Immediately after Novembers election, he began musing about acquiring Greenland from Denmark, which has no interest whatsoever in parting with the territory. His menacing gestures began to escalate. Trump has started taunting Canada by referring to its prime minister as a governor and vaguely threatening annexation. He began demanding a return of the Panama Canal, which the United States ceded more than four decades ago. Today, during a press conference, Trump announced that he would rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. When a reporter asked if he would disavow military and economic coercion in his efforts to seize Greenland or the Panama Canal, he declined to rule out either. No, I cant assure you on either of those two, he mused. Im not going to commit to that. It might be that we will have to do something. [Robinson Meyer: Trump is thinking of buying a giant socialist island] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When an authoritarian-minded leader poised to control the worlds most powerful military begins overt saber-rattling against neighbors, the most obvious and important question to ask is whether he intends to follow through. That question, unfortunately, is difficult to answer. On the one hand, Trump almost certainly has no plan, or even concepts of a plan, to launch a hemispheric war. Seizing the uncontrolled edges of the North American continent makes sense in the board game Risk, but it has very little logic in any real-world scenario. On the other hand, Trump constantly generated wild ideas during his first term, only for the traditional Republicans in his orbit to distract or foil him, with the result that the world never found out how serious he was about them. This time around, one of his highest priorities has been to make sure his incoming administration is free of officials whose professionalism or loyalty to the Constitution would put them at risk of violating their loyalty to Trump. We cannot simply assume that Trumps most harebrained schemes will fizzle. An easier question to answer is why Trump keeps uttering these threats. One reason is that he seems to sincerely believe that strong countries have the right to bully weaker ones. Trump has long insisted that the United States should seize smaller countries natural resources, and that American allies should be paying us protection money, as if they were shopkeepers and America were a mob boss. A second reason is that Trump uses his international bullying as fan service for his base. The actual, concrete policy agenda of Trumps presidency consists largely of boring regulatory and tax favors to wealthy donors and business interestspriorities that most of his voters dont care about. Trump seems to grasp the need for public dramas to entertain the MAGA base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spectacles of domination play an important role in Trumps political style. Build the wall is the classic example: Trump never did build his big, beautiful wall along the length of the southern border, yet his fans dont hold that against him, because the physical manifestation of a barrier on the southern border was beside the point. They thrilled instead to the idea of a wall as an expression of strength and defiance. When Trump would respond to criticism by saying, The wall just got 10 feet higher, he was performing dominance. The real wall was the threats he made along the way. The giveaway came when, during Trumps first term, Democrats in Congress offered to fund the wall in return for minor immigration-policy concessions, at which point Trump appeared to lose interest in the project. The fact that Democrats would cooperate drained the trope of its transgressive allure. [John B. Washington: Trumps big border wall is now a pile of rusting steel] Trumps most recent gestures likewise reveal his symbolic intent. To be sure, you can construct a coherent policy rationale for some kind of international deal involving Greenland. But there is little evidence that Trump is interested in any kind of practical deal. He wants to menace allies. You dont dispatch Donald Trump Jr., whose professional expertise, to the extent he has any, is monetizing the Trump brand, to advance a real diplomatic or military strategy. You send Don Jr. to entertain the base. Meanwhile, renaming the Gulf of Mexico isnt even plausibly related to any economic or territorial objective. Its pure symbolic bluster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump could very well blunder from performative imperialism into a live shooting war. (When I was a kid, my teachers banned play-fighting at recess on the sound basis that it often led to the real thing). More likely, he will antagonize allies and provoke voters in those countries to elevate nationalist leaders of their own who will stand up to the United States rather than cooperate with it. This would be a long-term cost to American foreign policy purchased for fleeting political gainmortgaging the interests of the country to extract immediate value for Donald Trump. That form of arbitrage is precisely the kind of deal that Trump long ago turned into an art form. Article originally published at The Atlantic Donald Trump refused to rule out using the US military to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal while announcing plans to expand American territory during his second term. The president-elect said on Tuesday that Greenland, which has been owned by Denmark since 1814, should be sold to the US for national security and threatened to impose tariffs on Danish exports if the countrys government refused his offer. He also called for the Panama Canal to be returned to the US, after it was sold under a 1970s deal signed by the former president Jimmy Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked at a press conference whether he would rule out military or economic force to acquire Greenland and the canal, he replied: No, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. The Panama Canal used to be under American ownership - Matias Delacroix/AP The US has long harboured ambitions of owning Greenland, and made an offer of $100 million to buy it from Denmark in 1946. The offer was rejected and Denmark has recently reiterated that the autonomous territory is not for sale. Mr Trump said: People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security. Thats for the free world. Im talking about protecting the free world. Adding Greenland to the US would represent the countrys largest land increase since the Louisiana purchase from France in 1803. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Mette Frederiksen, the Danish prime minister, said Greenland had made clear that it is not for sale and will not be in the future either. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders, she told the Danish broadcaster TV 2. On one hand, I am pleased regarding the rise in American interest in Greenland, but of course it is important that it takes place in a way where it is the Greenlanders decision, what their future holds. Mr Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr, separately visited Greenland on Tuesday for what he said was a very long, personal day trip. Donald Trump Jr visited Greenland as part of a personal day trip Mr Trump used his appearance in Florida to expand on his plan to acquire the Panama Canal, describing Carters 1977 decision to sell it as a disgrace that had effectively given control of the waterway to China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carter gave it to [Panama] for $1 and they were supposed to treat us well. I thought it was a terrible thing to do, he said. They dont treat us fairly. They charge more for our ships than they charge for ships of other countries. They charge more for our navy than they charge for navies of other countries. They laugh at us because they think were stupid, but were not stupid anymore. So the Panama Canal is under discussion with them right now. Carter died last December and will be commemorated in a state funeral in Washington DC on Thursday. Mr Trump later added that his predecessor was a good man and a fine person who made a big mistake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jose Raul Mulino, the president of Panama, has previously rejected the idea of turning the canal back to the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Credit: @OJoelsen/@DonaldJTrumpJr/X During his hour-long Mar-a-Lago address, which was intended to announce foreign investment in US data centres, Mr Trump also said he would rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. He said the 218,000 sq mile ocean basin between the south-eastern US and Mexico was ours and that we do most of the work there. Were going to be announcing at a future date, pretty soonwere going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory, he said. The names used on American maps are typically set by the US Board of Geographic Names, although presidents have previously renamed geographic features via executive action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The press conference marked a significant escalation in Mr Trumps rhetoric against several American allies, including Canada, which he again argued should become the 51st state of the US. He promised to use economic force against the USs neighbour if it did not reduce migration and drug trafficking on their shared border, and complained about low defence spending by Justin Trudeau, the outgoing Canadian prime minister who announced his resignation on Monday. Mr Trump Jr made the private visit to Nuuk in Greenland - EMIL STACH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock He said Canada and the US should get rid of that artificially drawn line between their countries, which he argued would be much better for national security. Dont forget, we basically protect Canadatheyre great, but were spending hundreds of billions here to protect it, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trumps second term, which will begin on Jan 20, will add significant pressure to Western allies to spend more on defence. He said on Tuesday that he would push Nato countries to spend five per cent of GDP on their militaries more than doubling the alliances current target of two per cent. The UK Government has announced it will raise spending to 2.5 per cent, but has not set a deadline for that goal. Mr Trump defended Elon Musk, one of his closest allies, when asked about controversial comments he has made about British politics, including calling Sir Keir Starmer complicit in the rape of Britain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect said he did not know the people that Mr Musk was talking about, but that he was doing a good job and was a very smart guy. I dont know the people youre talking about, he said. I know he said some negative things about a couple of people that are running for office, but its not so unusual. 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-elect Donald Trump is readying his plans for when he enters office on Jan. 20. During a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 7, the 78-year-old shared his plan for renaming the Gulf of Mexico. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, Trump told reporters. Which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory. The Gulf of America, what a beautiful name. And its appropriate. Its appropriate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Donald Trump Says Canada Should Be '51st State' as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Resigns Scott Olson/Getty President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico the 'Gulf of America' President-elect Donald Trump says he plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico the 'Gulf of America' Trump, who is known for his strict stance on immigration, added, And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country. He also called Mexico a very dangerous place, claiming it is essentially run by the cartels. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene quickly confirmed on X that she is preparing legislation to make Trumps wish a reality. Ill be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America! Greene wrote alongside a video of Trumps comments. Related: Donald Trump Jr. Lands in Greenland for Exploratory Visit After Dad Donald Said U.S. Should Buy It Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gulf of Mexico refers to the portion of the Atlantic Ocean bordered by U.S. states Florida, Louisiana, Alabama and Texas, as well as Mexico and Cuba. As of 2024, Gulf of Mexico federal offshore oil production accounts for 14% of total U.S. crude oil production and federal offshore natural gas production in the Gulf accounts for 5% of total U.S. dry production, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Related: Donald Trump May Try to 'Run the Nation from Mar-a-Lago': 'He Is Blissfully Happy in Palm Beach' (Exclusive Source) Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty The Gulf of Mexico borders both America and Mexico as well as Cuba The Gulf of Mexico borders both America and Mexico as well as Cuba Ahead of his inauguration, Trump has spoken out multiple times, threatening to impose tariffs on both Mexico and the neighboring country of Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps threat of a 25% increase in tariffs on Canadian goods has been credited as part of the reason Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his plans to step down on Monday, Jan. 6, as soon as a replacement can be found. 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. In response to Trudeaus news, Trump sarcastically wrote on Truth Social, "Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State, referencing his running bit that Canada should not be its own country. "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 continued. "Together, what a great Nation it would be!!!" Read the original article on People Meta's content-moderation changes aim to appease Donald Trump and his conservative allies. Mark Zuckerberg's moves follow efforts to align with Trump, including meetings and policy shifts. Meta's new approach includes ending third-party fact-checking and demoting its Trust and Safety team. Sometimes the obvious thing is the obvious thing. Which is to say: You can make pro and con arguments for many of the massive changes Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced about the way his company is going to moderate or not moderate content. It's a complicated topic. But the most important takeaway is that all of Tuesday's news has been rolled out specifically for Donald Trump, and the new political reign that officially kicks into gear on January 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes the language Zuckerberg and his company are using to describe the changes like when Zuckerberg criticizes "legacy media" and declares that "the recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point" in a video posted Tuesday morning. It includes the venue Meta used to announce the changes Fox News, Trump's favorite TV channel. And, of course, the changes themselves. We'll get to those in a second. But first, some crucial context: Tuesday's news follows a series of moves Zuckerberg and Meta have made to make nice with Trump and Republicans, which began before November's election. A reminder of that timeline: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Add it all up and there's no way to see Zuckerberg's moves as anything other than a straightforward attempt to please Trump and the incoming president's conservative allies, who have often complained that Zuckerberg's properties were biased against them. It's crystal clear. As far as the changes themselves: It's entirely possible that some of the stuff Zuckerberg and his team announced Tuesday reflects what Zuckerberg actually believes. (I've asked Meta PR whether Zuckerberg wants to expand on his comments.) Figuring out the best way to moderate or not moderate giant platforms that depend on free contributions from their users has bedeviled all the Big Tech companies for years. And Zuckerberg has never seemed comfortable with the various moderation layers and rules his company has added over time.* He has also been signaling that he's particularly unhappy about the way the company responded to criticism and regulation following the 2016 election and subsequent revelations like the Cambridge Analytica data breach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So getting rid of third-party fact-checking of controversial posts in favor of the "Community Notes" system Elon Musk's Twitter/X uses might very well be what Zuckerberg thinks makes sense. It certainly fits a Silicon Valley ethos that's much more comfortable using a combination of users and software to make decisions about what people see on those platforms, rather than asking executives to take responsibility for those calls. The same goes for the demotion of Meta's Trust and Safety team which is most definitely what Zuckerberg intends by moving those operations from California to Texas, which, at a minimum, is an attrition play. Zuckerberg has long talked about wanting those roles to eventually become automated, and in the meantime, hiring humans to do that work has been difficult, messy, or worse. Simply doing less of it is one way to get at the problem. (Worth noting: In 2023, the Meta investor and board member Marc Andreessen described Trust and Safety operations as part of "The Enemy" he wanted tech to fight back against.) And figuring out how to run a platform that's based in America but subject to regulation around the world is a problem that all US tech companies struggle with. You can imagine the appeal of Zuckerberg's new approach simply announcing that the rest of the world is anti-growth. There will be a lot of devil in the details here. For instance, Zuckerberg certainly can't fully adopt Musk's next-to-anything-goes approach for his companies. Unlike Musk, he isn't in a position to scare off users and advertisers who want a clean, well-lit space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But those are all details to hash out in the future. Tuesday's news is simple: It's Donald Trump's world, and Mark Zuckerberg is living in it. *Criticisms of Meta/Facebook's moderation attempts don't come only from the right. I always remember the prime minister of Norway, among others, complaining when Facebook took down posts that used a Pulitzer Prize-winning photo from the Vietnam War a move Facebook first defended, then reversed. Read the original article on Business Insider TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) The U.S. Department of Transportation has penalized JetBlue airlines $2 million for operating routes with unrealistic schedules, resulting in at least 145 chronically delayed flights in 2022 and 2023. This is the first time DOT has penalized an airline for chronic delays. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side Half of the $2 million penalty will go to JetBlue customers impacted by the chronic delays or future delays this year. The other half will go to the U.S. Treasury Department. The DOT considers flights chronically delayed if they travel the same route at least 10 times a month and are canceled or arrive more than 30 minutes late more than half of the time. The DOT noted chronically delayed flights between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, Florida and JFK, and between Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Windsor Locks, Connecticut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rays expect city to repair Tropicana Field by Opening Day 2026 This is the kind of wake-up call thats a long time coming, said Teresa Murray, Consumer Watchdog director for the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund. Travelers plans shouldnt hang on a wing and a prayer. JetBlue for years has had among the highest ratios of passenger complaints, the highest cancellation rates and the worst on-time rates, according to U.S. PIRG Education Funds airline analyses in recent years. The chronically delayed flights are just one part of a bigger problem. Consumer Investigator Shannon Behnken spoke with travelers at Tampa International Airport, who said theyre happy to see regulators taking action. Heather Miller of Tampa said her American flight was delayed more than a hour and that she has come to expect flights to be late. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think you should get what you pay for, Miller said. I think there should be some transparency, and when I book a flight and I have an itinerary, I think the airlines should do their part to make sure the customers get where theyre supposed to go when theyre supposed to go. The DOTs Air Travel consumer report discloses overall on-time performance for the 10 largest airlines and their marketing partners. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Dozens of people have been killed after a strong earthquake struck Tibet on Tuesday. The magnitude 7.1 earthquake was centred in Tibet at a depth of about 10 kilometres, the US Geological Survey said. Chinese state news agency Xinhua, citing local authorities, said at least 32 people had been killed and 38 injured. Many houses near the epicentre had collapsed, state broadcaster CCTV reported. The Chinese earthquake monitoring centre CENC recorded the magnitude as 6.8. Dozens of bus riders are stranded at the Greyhound station after their trips were cancelled on Sunday and Monday. One rider says he counted close to 100 people stuck with nowhere to go. Many of those stranded riders cannot afford hotel rooms and are sleeping on the floor of the downtown station. There are a lot of people in here, Tracey Heimberger tells Channel 11. There are kids, families, people in wheelchairs. What do you do? Tracey Heimberger was in tears talking to us and had to end the interview, saying the stress was too much. She is one of dozens stuck at the Greyhound station in downtown Pittsburgh for days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has really been a nightmare, Tracey Heimberger told Channel 11 News. Nobody here is trying to help with anything. Some of these hotels are $400 a night. What can you do? Im sleeping on these hard floors. James Hoskins uses a wheelchair. He says he got to the downtown Pittsburgh station on Thursday. He says he got messages day after day saying his trip was cancelled. Now Im here scheduled til Wednesday, Hoskins said. Yeah, almost a whole week. Hoskins says his family has been sending him money so he can roll in his chair to a convenience store to get food and supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crowded, morale is pretty down, Hoskins described the environment at the downtown station. They did pass out food this morning, so Ill give them that. We reached out to Greyhound and a spokesperson said their team began notifying passengers with trips affected by severe winter weather with up to 24 hours notice, adding, The ongoing severe winter weather has caused changes, cancellations, and delays to bus schedules across the United States and Canada. Regrettably, some passengers were impacted mid-journey. Our customer service team is working directly with the affected customers to resume service as soon as the weather conditions permit. Right now, buses in 17 states, Washington D.C. and Canada are affected by this storm. Greyhound says those buses will not be able to roll out until they can assure all customers will be safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To check current weather and emergency advisories for Greyhound routes, click here. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) Police have arrested an East Texas man in connection to a 2023 deadly Fourth of July crash after he reportedly admitted to drinking and driving. According to an affidavit, DPS troopers were dispatched to a crash on Farm to Market 346 near Dudley Road in Smith County at around 12:26 a.m. 18-year-old arrested after New Years Day crash, pursuit in Crockett The Tyler Police Department, Whitehouse Police Department, firefighters and medical personnel were already at the scene where a 2017 Buick had crashed into a tree and sustained extensive front-end damage. Mugshot of Raul Trejo, courtesy of the Smith County Jail Documents identify the driver as Raul Trejo and front seat passenger as 44-year-old John Freeman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said Trejo was transported to a local hospital for minor injuries while Freeman was unresponsive and later died. The trooper on the case went to the hospital to talk with Trejo and told him Freeman had died. Without being questioned, Trejo began explaining what happened regarding the crash, the affidavit stated. He explained that he had swerved to avoid hitting a deer and lost control of the vehicle. Trejo then said I killed my best friends daddy, giving the trooper confirmation that Trejo was behind the wheel of the vehicle at the time of the crash. Trejo allegedly admitted to the trooper he had a mixed drink about an hour before the crash and that he was the designated driver. Trejo then became emotional and began crying. However, moments later a nurse walked in and he said youre really pretty and began laughing with the nurse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This behavior was abnormal because within 30 seconds to a minute, Trejo went from being emotional and crying to laughing and flirting, the trooper said. Trejo then began explaining the crash once again, allegedly admitted to drinking a beer and a margarita mixed drink approximately two hours prior to the crash. He also said he did not hit a tree despite the extensive evidence proving otherwise, the affidavit said. A Standardized Field Sobriety Test was conducted, and the trooper said as he leaned closer to Trejo, he observed an odor of an alcoholic beverage emitting from his breath. Trejo also was unable to perform the Walk and Turn and One Leg Stand Test. 6 injured after Highway 69 motorcycle, vehicle crashes in Angelina County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trejo also said he smoked marijuana, the affidavit stated, smoking two to three blunts every day. Trejo consented to a blood specimen that was sent to the Tyler DPS Crime Lab. Results reportedly show that he had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .035 grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood, a positive confirmation for Alprazolam, Benzodiazepines and Cannabinoids. Based on the totality of the circumstances, I have reason to believe Trejo was intoxicated and had lost the normal use of his mental and physical faculties that are required to operate a motor vehicle in a public space, the trooper said. Trejo introduced alcohol and a drug into his body and by reason of that intoxication caused the death of another by accident or mistake. Trejo has since been charged with intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle and remains in the Smith County Jail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jimmy Sengenberger is an investigative journalist, public speaker, and longtime local talk-radio host. Reach Jimmy online at Jimmysengenberger.com or on X (formerly Twitter) @SengCenter. A court in Warsaw has ordered the three-month detention of a minibus driver who fatally struck a 14-year-old Ukrainian boy in early January. Source: Ukrinform, citing Piotr Skiba, Warsaw District Prosecutor's Office spokesperson, as reported by European Pravda Details: Skiba reported that the driver has been accused of causing a fatal accident and fleeing the scene, crimes punishable by a prison term of between five and twenty years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man is also accused of driving while under a three-year ban for past offences which is valid until April 2026. This charge carries an additional prison sentence of between three months and five years. Quote from the spokesperson for the Warsaw Prosecutor's Office: "During the hearing on Tuesday, the court granted the prosecution's request and ordered the drivers detention... He faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted of both charges." Skiba also noted that the victim's mother spoke Polish fluently, implying that the family may have arrived in Poland prior to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Background: The accident occurred on the evening of 3 January. The minibus driver hit the boy on a pedestrian crossing and then fled the scene. The boy was rushed to hospital, but later died of his injuries. The Warsaw District Prosecutor's Office later confirmed that the deceased was a 14-year-old Ukrainian boy. Support UP or become our patron! MT. PLEASANT, Utah (ABC4) A 68-year-old man was found dead after crashing through the fence of an auto parts store in Mt. Pleasant on Sunday. On Jan. 5, the Mt. Pleasant Police Department responded to a vehicle crash at 10 a.m. on US-89 near 900 south. Upon arrival, police found a vehicle had gone off the road and through the fence. Utah man accused of stabbing brother for snitching Police found the driver unresponsive and slumped against the passenger door. Although life-saving efforts were administered, the individual was found to be dead. The driver was the only one in the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said that the crash happened at a low speed inconsistent with the energy to result in a death. According to the initial investigation, police said the driver appeared to have a medical issue which led to the minor damage crash. UHP is investigating the crash and no foul play is suspected. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Noah Galle was 17 years old when he crashed his BMW at 151 mph in western Palm Beach County, killing six workers who were heading home from Pero Family Farms late on a night nearly three years ago. He will spend the entirety of his 20s in prison, after pleading guilty in their deaths. The Jan. 27, 2022, crash on State Road 7 west of Delray Beach immediately killed five of the six farm workers. Galle was sentenced Monday to just under 12-and-a-half years in state prison for six counts of vehicular homicide, followed by seven years of probation, according to court records and the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office. Galles attorneys argued in a court motion that there were mitigating factors for the Wellington teen, saying he had severe health issues at the time of the crash. Several experts would have testified at trial that Galle possibly experienced a syncope event and lost consciousness, the motion said, when he smashed into the back of the Nissan Rogue being driven by 44-year-old Mirlaine Innocent Julceus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But deputies said that Galle had a history of speeding at more than 100 mph, having just weeks earlier recorded a video of himself driving the same BMW at 182 mph on Interstate 95, according to a probable cause affidavit for his arrest. Someone had tipped off authorities about videos of Galle driving at an extremely high rate of speed that he posted on Instagram and TikTok. In the video of him speeding on I-95, Galle wrote in the comments section that he would pay the first person to guess how fast he was driving. He also advertised his Instagram account name on the car, the affidavit said. Hes charged in a 151 mph crash that killed 6. Deputies say he recorded himself driving 182 mph weeks before. With no signs at the scene that indicated Galle had attempted to break or avoid the crash, the impact at 151 mph forced the Nissan to spin off the inside lane in the 14000 block of South State Road 7 and into the median, the Sheriffs Office said in a crash report. The Nissan flipped and rolled as it traveled in the dirt and grass of the center median, where it finally stopped upside down. Galles BMW rotated outside of the lane and stopped on the eastern shoulder of the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Killed in the crash were Julceus, of West Palm Beach; Remize Michel, 52, of Palm Springs; Marie M. Louis, 60, of Wellington; Filaine Dieu, 45, of Lake Worth Beach; Vanice Percina, 28, of West Palm Beach; and Saint L. Michel, 77, of Lake Worth Beach. Galle had minor injuries, the Sheriffs Offices crash report said. He was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, his attorneys said in the court motion. The six deaths ripped through a close-knit community. All had been working for Pero Family Farms for years. Some of their distant relatives were also coworkers. Percina was a wife and mother of a 2-year-old and an 8-year-old, court records show. Michel was the father of 14 children, according to a lawsuit complaint filed by a son. Dieu had immigrated from Haiti just two years earlier. Julceus was a wife and mother who immigrated from Haiti 10 years earlier. She had driven the group to the packing house earlier that day and regularly drove others home. They had left work just moments before the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Relatives filed separate lawsuits against Galle and his parents, Craig Galle and Helena Galle, and at least three families reached settlements in 2023 and early 2024, while one lawsuit filed by Michels son remains pending, court records show. No amount of time will bring back the victims for their families. We feel this is an appropriate resolution, Al Johnson, Chief Assistant State Attorney told WPEC-Ch. 12. The victims all have written to us that they do not object to this. Some of them didnt even want him to go to jail at all. One wanted us to drop the case entirely. A West Delray crash killed six people. The parents of a teen driver now face a lawsuit. Galle is extremely remorseful for his actions and started a nonprofit called Helping Loving Hands, Inc., through which he raised more than $100,000 for the victims families, his attorneys said in the Jan. 3 court motion. A doctor and expert witness reviewed Galles medical history and diagnosed him with Dysautonomia and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, both which can cause dizziness, fainting and vision issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Galle will be on house arrest until he turns himself in to begin his sentence on Feb. 3, according to the plea agreement. Judge Sherri L. Collins signed an order Monday recommending Galle be placed in either Avon Park Correctional Institution in Polk County or Everglades Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade County for his sentence. After his release, Galle is required to complete 800 hours of community service and attempt to speak with students or public organizations like Students Against Destructive Decisions, Mothers Against Drunk Driving or Safety 4 Life Foundation. His license will also be revoked for three years, and he will be required to take a defense driving course. Information from the South Florida Sun Sentinel archives was used in this report. Six co-workers died in a Delray crash. All were providers, responsible for their households. Now, all thats left are six gaping holes in the families While master contract negotiations between the International Longshoremens Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) were expected to resume Tuesday after a two-month hiatus, one report indicates the talks already began over the weekend. Key members of the ILA and USMX reportedly held a meeting on Sunday in an effort to find common ground on automation at the East and Gulf Coast ports, according to CNBC. Automation has been the main point of contention between the dockworkers union and its maritime employers that resulted in an impasse at the negotiation table. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ILA and USMX have not confirmed the Sunday meeting, and still have not confirmed the prior reports of negotiations resuming Tuesday. A Wall Street Journal report says Tuesday marks the first of three days of scheduled talks. Sourcing Journal reached out to both parties, with the ILA declining comment. Both the ILA and USMX are in crunch time, with a little over a week before their temporary contract extension expires. If a new contract isnt agreed to by 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 15, then the ILA will go on strike for a second time across ports from Maine to Texas. The 45,000 dockworkers already walked off the job for three days to start Octoberhalting container flow in and out of the portsbefore agreeing to terms on a tentative 61.5 percent wage increase over six years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reported meeting included individuals from terminals where contested technologies like rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes are already being used, both in the Port of New York and New Jersey, and the Port of Virginia. ILA president Harold Daggett and his son, executive vice president Dennis Daggett, attended the meeting, alongside Virgil Moldonado, president of the Bayonne, N.J.-based ILA 1588 local chapter. The USMXs representatives including CEO Paul Demaria, as well as Joe Ruddy, chief operations officer of the Port of Virginia. Executives from member terminal operators showed up as well, including Kevin Price, president of Gateway Terminals; John Atkins, president of GCT USA; and Anthony Ray, executive vice president of operations at Maher Terminals. The CNBC report says language on automation was drawn up to assist the full bargaining committee review process set to restart Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a document reviewed by the news network, the agreement states that the ILA reserves the right to add union workers in the future to complement any new technologies and there is a commitment by the parties to research and utilize all technology that would assist an operator in being more efficient and productive. Although the reported language suggests that the USMX is willing to cater to some of the unions concerns over jobs, the report says critical details still need to be ironed out. Whether the port and terminal operators agree to modify terms on automation or risk another strike is still up in the air. One anonymous USMX member said in the CNBC report that the requirement to match any port technology implementations with new jobs should take the 61.5 percent tentative wage increase for the dockworkers off the table. As the deadline to Jan. 15 counts down, more logistics companies are warning U.S. importers to clear cargo before the date to avoid demurrage, detention or additional fees linked to port congestion and delays. Importers have already been front-loading goods into the country in recent weeks amid the strike concerns and possible tariffs levied by the incoming Trump administrationmimicking the behavior exhibited ahead of the Oct. 1 work stoppage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In anticipation of a strike, container shipping firms like Hapag-Lloyd, ZIM, CMA CGM and Yang Ming have added some extra surcharges for importers looking to ship goods into the East and Gulf Coast ports. In a client advisory, Seko Logistics projected that the initial impact phase of disruption within the first seven days of a strike would result in terminal congestion reaching 85 percent to 90 percent of capacity, with vessel queuing beginning at anchorage points. During this stretch, cargo scheduled for inbound intermodal freight would face three-to-five-day delays, while local delivery windows would be extended by 48 to 72 hours. Empty container returns would be restricted, Seko says, echoing prior encouragements from Maersk to return all empties before the negotiation deadline. For each day of closure, major ports accumulate backlogs of approximately 25,000 to 30,000 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs), said the advisory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given what had occurred during the first three-day strike in October, ports like New York and New Jersey and Savannah will face a slower return to normalcy due to their operational complexity and cargo volumes. Seko experts predict that these larger ports will typically require an additional one to two weeks for full recovery compared to smaller ports, said the logistics provider in the advisory. This extended timeline stems from their intricate networks of terminals, carriers and inland connections. Ports with significant rail dependencies are particularly vulnerable to prolonged recovery periods, as the ripple effects of port closures cascade through the inland transportation network. KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) Another East Tennessee family has waited for months to have a new roof put on their home. Frustrated, they canceled the job but were then penalized for canceling. The business is called Storm Guard, also known as Storm Guard of Appalachia. In each case weve reported, the same door-to-door salesman visited three different neighborhoods, secured contracts, and insurance money to start the work. In each case, months dragged on and the jobs never started. The customers canceled, but Storm Guard charged them a 25% penalty. Shelly Terry expected a new roof on her home more than three months ago. A storm damaged it late last spring and her insurance company approved its repair. A door-to-door roofing salesman from Storm Guard of Johnson City stopped by her neighborhood. Her insurance covered $16,000. She wrote a check and sent it to Storm Guard on July 12 expecting the work to start by last September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nothing has been done, no work whatsoever, said Terry. Never even started. How a box of explosives ended up at Knoxville recycling business Her salesman, Jonathan Brown, did come in September and patched a small section of her roof to keep it from leaking. I started again reaching out. When are we going to do this? When is the date? Whens the date? Nobody ever called, said Terry. She eventually got a date of October 23 from Storm Guard. The 23rd came and went. The 24th came and, Im like, so exasperated. Im done. Im done, she said. Fed up with waiting, she canceled her order. In November she received a refund check for $10,800 along with a letter stating shes being charged a 25% cancellation fee. She did not cash the check. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre keeping $5,283 of my money, said Terry. [A] great deal for them. Another Storm Guard customer, Mildred, had to pay a second contractor to install a roof on the home her husband built more than 30 years ago. She called her insurance company after a storm in April damaged the roofs on her house, her late husbands old workshop and the roof on a rental she owns. She wrote two checks to Storm Guard amounting to nearly $20,000 in August. Tennessee mens basketball breaks program record for longest streak at No. 1 In late September, Mildred said she called Jonathan Brown and canceled. She was also told about the 25% penalty for canceling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 6 News first came across Storm Guard in May 2024. Tim Sharp hired the company in September 2023 to fix his damaged roof, but the work never started. $10,411 was the amount paid through his insurance. By April 2024, his patience had run out. He contacted the company demanding his money back. I said I consider you had not kept the contract. I want a refund, said Sharp. His contract called for a 25% penalty just like Mildred and Terry had been warned. We talked with Jonathan Brown in May and pressed him about Sharps reimbursement and were told he would get his full refund. Within weeks, Sharp received his full refund of $10,412. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cocke County man charged with impersonating law enforcement after road rage incident On behalf of Mildred, we called Storm Guard President Mike Koontz. He said he understood Mildreds frustration about the delay in her getting new roofs and hed make it right. Mildred received her full refund right after Christmas. Oh, Im happy, Im just real pleased, said Mildred. Terry was also sent a full refund check for just over $16,000. Koontz told 6 News that a delay with their supplier is the reason why they didnt make the late October deadline for Terry. He said they were returning her full refund as a courtesy. Terry, Sharp, and Mildred told us the same thing, they had confidence and trusted Storm Guard to do the work but the lack of communication led to their distrust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts say its best to deal with a local company, not one thats located out of the area. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) As 2025 kicks off, many people are setting New Years resolutions. Ella Peters says, Im a student at the university and I just declared a minor, so my New Years resolution is just to stay on top of that. I want to try to get eight hours of sleep every night, cause Im really bad at that. I definitely want to learn to cook more and make a lot more homemade meals so I can eat healthier. Eau Claire resident, Aurora Hinde adds, I dont have anything super crazy. I want to do more stuff with my partner. I want to go out and do more things, I want to do some more stuff at home. Setting goals for the new year doesnt just apply to the individual. Its also something the City of Eau Claire is tackling. Some of its main priorities for the year include homelessness and affordable housing. City Council President Emily Berge says, I understand peoples frustration with affordable housing and lack of, we try. We just only have so many tools at the city level. We really do need our state partners and federal partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something that any housing unit needs is water. Which is also a top priority for the city. Berge says, We broke ground on our PFAS removal facility last August. That should be done maybe 2025 it could be 2026. But when that is completed, it will take out 100 percent of the PFAS in our water system at the source. Speaking of new systems at the source, the new transit center in downtown Eau Claire will officially be up and running by summer. With it, Eau Claire Transit will be attempting something brand new for the area. Berge explains, Were going to be trying micro transit on the north side. (Which is,) Kind of like Uber, Lyft, but you know through the city, through our transit system. Berge says the city had a series of studies and consultations done to look into possible improvements, Garbage is a big topic in Eau Claire. We pay more than our peer communities, and it seems like its less service. Berge adds that some community members have complained about garbage-related issues over the years and that they are working with the study to find improvements, Now well kind of look at solving some problems early in 2025, maybe implementing a new system, maybe not. But just really talking with the community about what they want to see. 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 FOX2548 & WIProud. GUAYAQUIL (Reuters) - Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa said in a decree on Tuesday that interim vice-president Cynthia Natalie Gellibert will serve as acting president from Thursday to Sunday so he can participate in campaigning for his re-election. A debate about who would act as president if Noboa were to take time out for the campaign has made waves in the country amid a long-running spat between him and elected vice-president Veronica Abad. Gellibert was named interim vice-president on Saturday, replacing a previously-named interim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is necessary, to guarantee the principles of transparency, equity and judicial security, and also to comply with adequate use of public resources, in a voluntary way, to separate and differentiate the periods when the president of the republic exercises his functions and the times when he is absent temporarily from the post to conduct campaign activities," the decree said. Abad, who has also been serving as Ecuador's ambassador to Israel, was suspended from her post by the labor ministry in November. The ministry accused her of committing a serious disciplinary offense by not complying with an order to travel to Turkey due to security concerns during the conflict in Gaza. A court then overturned the suspension in December and the same day Noboa ordered Abad to go to Turkey to act as temporary counselor at the country's embassy there. Noboa named an interim vice-president last week, saying the measure would be in place until Abad arrives in Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the weekend Abad said she had every right to assume the presidency on Sunday, when the election campaign officially began, and called on the military to back her, but the armed forces said in a statement they would uphold the constitution. Noboa, elected in 2023 to finish his predecessor's term, says his policies have reduced violence in the country, which saw a sharp uptick in crime after the COVID-19 pandemic. But some Ecuadoreans and rights groups have decried what they say are military overreach and rights violations. The election is February 9. (Reporting by Yury Garcia; Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb) You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Renewable energy developer EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA) said two solar farms with a combined 300 MW of generation capacity are now operating in Kern County, California. The two-phase solar energy park includes the 200-MW Sandrini I, which has a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Shell Energy North America. The project also includes the 100-MW Sandrini II solar farm, which has a 15-year PPA with Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA). EDP on Jan. 7 said both phases of the project were commissioned in late 2024. The company said power from Sandrini II will provide more than one-third of the total annual electric need for customers of RCEAs community choice energy program. RCEA supplies more than 90% of the electricity for Humboldt County on Californias rural north coast. Completion of Sandrini II marks a large step toward RCEA meeting its goal of supplying 100% renewable energy to its customers by 2030. Sandrini I has already disbursed more than $510,000 in tax payments to local governments since 2023. EDP on Tuesday said about that in addition, about $15 million will be paid to local landowners, who lease a portion of their land to house the solar energy parks infrastructure. Sandrini I and II employed more than 200 workers during construction and will create several permanent operations positions, according to EDP. RCEA is one of 25 community choice aggregators (CCAs) now serving communities in California. Sandrini II adds to 8,000 MW of new clean energy resources brought online to date by Californias CCAs. An additional 10,000 MW of new clean resources are in contract with these CCAs and are currently under development or construction. The CCAs clean energy projects collectively support more than 36,000 construction jobs across California and the U.S. West. RCEA is committed to achieving our goal of supplying Humboldt County with 100% renewable energy. Sandrini II is a welcomed addition to our energy portfolio. We are proud to see another high-impact solar project go to work on behalf of our community, said RCEA Board Chair Sarah Schaefer. Both phases of the solar energy park also yield environmental benefits, including saving more than 381 million gallons of water each year compared to the amount of water that conventional generation sources would need to produce the same amount of capacity. These water savings, in turn, will help aid Kern Countys water conservation goals. Sandrini I & II represent EDP Renewables continued commitment to investing in California and are a direct contribution to Californias admirable target of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2045, said Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America. The Golden State is known for its leadership in solar energy, and EDP Renewables is elated to meet the growing demand for reliable, clean energy sources. EDPR NA is a clean energy leader in California, currently operating six renewable energy projects in the state, totaling 488 MW of capacity. Its projects include three phases of the Rising Tree Wind Farm, two phases of the Lone Valley Solar Park, and the Windhub A Solar Park. EDPR NAs California portfolio also boasts several other solar parks and battery storage facilities, including the recently completed 200-MW solar and 40-MW storage Scarlet Solar Energy Park. POWER edited this content, which was contributed by EDP Renewables North America. California consumers are facing sticker shock at the grocery store as egg prices hit an eye-watering $8.97 per dozen in December, nearly 60% higher than November's $5.68 price tag. As the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports, this sharp increase shows no signs of dropping as we enter 2025. The price spike stems from a devastating bird flu outbreak that's ravaging California's poultry flocks. Some retailers have posted signs attributing shortages to California's Proposition 12 cage-free requirements, but agricultural experts identify avian influenza as the primary market disruptor. Related: The Stories That Defined Travel & Luxury in 2024 Local restaurants feel the squeeze of these unprecedented costs. Some establishments search for better wholesale prices to shield customers from increases, while others have started raising menu prices on egg dishes to cope with the surge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The USDA's latest data paints a sobering picture: nine confirmed avian flu cases across Merced, Stanislaus, Riverside, and San Joaquin counties last month alone. When the virus appears, entire flocks must be euthanized, with farms needing months to rebuild their numbers, Bill Mattos, president of the California Poultry Federation, told the Ventura County Star. Egg prices in the U.S. have surged dramatically since 2022, as shown in this Bureau of Labor Statistics chart, driven by supply chain disruptions, avian flu outbreaks, and inflationary pressures.Courtesy of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics The Los Angeles Times reports the disease has hit large egg farm flocks hardest from October to January, with December seeing the most severe impact. While the outbreak has affected 10.16 million birds nationwide in the past month, this represents just a fraction of America's 378.5 million egg-laying chickens. Still, California bears the brunt of the crisis, with a fresh outbreak in Stanislaus County claiming another 75,200 birds. Related: Close Call at LAX: Charter Jet Carrying Gonzaga Basketball Team Prompts FAA Investigation Agricultural experts warn that fall and spring migration patterns typically see increased transmission as wild birds spread the virus to laying hens. The American Farm Bureau Federation suggests consumers should prepare for continued price volatility in the months ahead. ORLANDO, Fla. Moving swiftly to distance herself from her embattled predecessor, newly minted Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel said Tuesday that her administration has begun efforts to claw back taxpayer funds from Valencia College and the Central Florida Foundation. Payments to those groups were made by the previous elections chief, Glen Gilzean, and spawned a monthslong feud between the elections office and county leaders who deemed the payments improper, if not illegal. Castor Dentel said recovering the money is crucial to solving a budget shortfall in the office. More than half of the agencys budget was spent in the first three months of the fiscal year, and in a court filing, Gilzean had indicated the office was about $800,000 in the red. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While these organizations are pillars of our community that have been drawn into the situation through no fault of their own, its vital that funds are returned to ensure the integrity of our elections, Castor Dentel said in a news conference. She formally took office Tuesday after winning election in November. The office was first vacant last year when longtime supervisor Bill Cowles retired. Gov. Ron DeSantis tapped Gilzean to lead the office in the interim. Gilzean previously had been the governors pick to lead the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board. Gilzean ultimately didnt seek election. In his final months in office, Gilzeans efforts to distribute election office funds to local nonprofits drew criticism from county leaders including Mayor Jerry Demings and Comptroller Phil Diamond. In total, Gilzean made about $5 million in payments an amount equivalent to about one-quarter of his offices annual budget with money going to Valencia College for scholarships, CareerSource Central Florida for retraining for elections workers and to the Central Florida Foundation to administer OCVotes, a program that grants money to other local nonprofits for voter outreach efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid the kerfuffle, CareerSource returned the $1.9 million it had received, while Valencia College said it would return its $2.1 million share of the money if it was asked to though before Tuesday county leaders hadnt done so. Its unclear how much of the roughly $1.1 million paid to the Foundation remains; at least some of that money has already been distributed. A foundation spokesperson didnt immediately return a request for comment. Castor Dentel said she hadnt made any decisions about the overall OCVotes program, and intends to evaluate it. During the feud with Gilzean, the board of County Commissioners at Diamonds urging froze budget payments to the elections supervisors office to prevent more questionable spending. That move together with Gilzeans spending left the office unable to pay its workers, and the county had to step in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Tuesday the Board voted to restore funding to the office, with a payment of about $1.7 million. Im happy to see her there, Diamond told commissioners, referring to Castor Dentel. I think in light of some of the irregularities we discovered there in the past few weeks or months over there, I think taxpayers can be a lot more comfortable. He appeared at the Tuesday news conference with Castor Dentel. The days of public disputes between his office and this office is now over, and well work together as partners, she said. _____ Elizabeth Steiner, former Oregon state senator, hugs Gov. Tina Kotek after Steiner is sworn in as Oregon state treasurer at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland Jan. 6. Steiner is Oregon's first female state treasurer. (Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Elizabeth Steiner, a Portland Democrat and former state senator, took the oath of office as Oregons first female state treasurer in front of a crowd of legendary state politicians and prominent party figures. Oregons first female governor, Barbara Roberts, and former Gov. Kate Brown sat in the front row as Steiner was sworn in Monday night by Gov. Tina Kotek at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland. Roberts, Brown and Kotek are the only three women to have served as Oregon governor in the states 166-year history. Kotek told the crowd that her long history with Steiner as a colleague and friend gave her confidence that Oregonians were getting a treasurer who would look out for their futures. (From left first Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, Gov. Tina Kotek, former Gov. Kate Brown and former Gov. Barbara Roberts). Kotek, Brown and Roberts, the only three women to serve as Oregon governor in the states history, were front row to watch the swearing in of Elizabeth Steiner as Oregons first female state treasurer at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland on Jan. 6. (Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle) We must ensure our young people can fulfill their promise and our workers can retire with safety and security, Kotek said. Elizabeth and I share a vision of Oregon as a place where every person has the opportunity to shape the future they want for themselves, and I just couldnt be more proud of my friend today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steiner said shell help more residents save for college, retirement and for their children. She also promised to continue to focus on shifting the Treasurys investments away from fossil fuels and into ones in clean energy. Im committing to you that during my tenure as treasurer, we will double the percentage of children in this state with a college savings plan, ensure the vast majority of Oregonians are saving for retirement; significantly expand the reach of the ABLE program, and establish a child savings account so that every child born in Oregon has a savings account available to them when they turn 18, Steiner said. The Oregon ABLE program helps people with disabilities save for the future without risking access to public benefits. Oregons treasurer manages the nearly $98 billion Public Employees Retirement System, or PERS, which currently provides benefits to about 146,000 retirees. The treasurer also manages public banking and savings programs, including the Oregon College Savings Plan and Oregon Saves, a retirement savings program run through the Treasury. Steiner helped pass Oregon Saves in the Legislature and has been trying for years to expand the states college savings plan. A former family physician and adjunct associate professor at Oregon Health & Science University, she spent 12 years in the Legislature, including six as co-chair of the powerful budget-writing Joint Ways and Means Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a release on Tuesday, she announced key people shes hired to lead her staff: George Naughton will serve as deputy treasurer. He has nearly 30 years of experience working for the state, including most recently as senior adviser to the Oregon State Fire Marshal and the states chief financial officer. Barry Ford, formerly CEO and president of the Council for a Strong America that works to help kids succeed, will be chief program officer. And Sybil Ackerman-Munson, with about 30 years nonprofit experience, will be Steiners chief of staff. Steiner said they bring passion and experience to their roles. I am proud to bring on board such a talented team to work with the great staff at Treasury, Steiner said. Challenges and opportunities PERS is facing a $28 billion unfunded liability due in part to a pre-2003 investment formula that made public employers liable for contributions for people they hired up to 2003. The problem has become especially troublesome in school districts this year, which are projected to pay $670 million more to the states public pension program over the next two years than the previous two. PERS is also facing poor returns on investment in recent years 10% lower than expected in 2023 and 2023, collectively in part because of underperforming private equity investments. Steiner said in a news conference before the ceremony that she is discussing funding strategies with Treasury staff and the four-member, governor-appointed Oregon Investment Council, which oversees PERS and other investments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do need to think hard about the percentage of our portfolios invested in private equity, and we are thinking hard about it, she said. The trick is, how do you start to rebalance your portfolio without losing money. Steiner said. She plans to rebalance environmental funds and is working on several bills she hopes the state Legislature will adopt in the upcoming session, including one that would codify a net-zero policy for Treasury investments in state law. Former Treasurer Tobias Read, now secretary of state, debuted a net-zero policy in 2024 to reduce PERS investments in companies responsible for producing fossil fuels or emitting major greenhouse gases by 60% by 2035 and to get the portfolio to net-zero emissions by 2050. Steiner wants to ensure the plan is statutorily protected. Fossil fuels will not be profitable investments in the long term, and the long term is not very long from now, regardless of whos in the White House, Steiner said. From a fiduciary perspective, if you want to talk about protecting the pension fund, we have to be looking at increasing our investments in alternative energy, the alternative energy sector and decreasing our investments in fossil fuels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steiner also wants the Legislature to clear up statutory issues making it difficult for the Treasury to invest $580 million Oregon received from the Monsanto agrochemical company in 2022. That money was part of a settlement tied to the companys alleged role in polluting the state for decades with PCBS, or toxic forever chemicals. She said it could be invested in perpetuity as a sort of endowment for the future. Without that, Steiner said, the state could lose the ability to leverage the money now to make more money that can then be used for long-term cleanup of PCBs and other toxic materials likely to exceed $580 million. Steiner said shed learned a lot from Read and other predecessors, and that any major changes during her tenure would be small and incremental. Well be taking a long, hard look at our investment status and our policies, because thats what should happen whenever you get a new treasurer, she said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX One person who is a fan of Metas decision to copy Xs Community Notes feature? X owner Elon Musk. The worlds richest man, in an X post on Tuesday, applauded Metas plan to ditch its third-party fact checking operation. In its place, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said his company which runs Facebook and Instagram will opt for a program that closely resembles Xs Community Notes. This is awesome, Musk posted, in response to Republican Sen. Rand Paul sharing a Fox News story on Metas sweeping changes. This is awesome Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 Musks response came a few minutes after he said Metas decision was cool. This is cool pic.twitter.com/kUkrvu6YKY Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2025 The existing Community Notes feature allows users to add context to posts that may be misleading or false. The feature was first teased in 2021 under the name Birdwatch, before being rolled out to the masses after Musk bought Twitter in late 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement X Corp. CEO Linda Yaccarino was similarly excited about the update, writing, Fact-checking and moderation doesnt belong in the hands of a few select gatekeepers who can easily inject their bias into decisions. Its a democratic process that belongs in the hands of many. And as weve seen on X since Community Notes debuted, its profoundly successful while keeping freedom of speech sacred. Its a smart move by Zuck and something I expect other platforms will follow now that X has shown how powerful it is. Bravo! Earlier on Tuesday, Zuckerberg announced Meta was canceling its third-party fact checking program, signaling a major shift in how the company patrols content. Were going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms, Zuckerberg said in a video message. More specifically, were going to get rid of fact-checkers and replace them with Community Notes similar to X, starting in the U.S. Meta launched its fact checking program soon after the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election. The company used ABC News, AP, Politifact, Snopes and FactCheck.org to flag content on its platforms, and posts that were deemed unreliable were pushed further down in Facebooks news feed; users were also warned before sharing flagged content that they were posting disputed stories. COMMUNITY NOTES FTW!!! Fact-checking and moderation doesn't belong in the hands of a few select gatekeepers who can easily inject their bias into decisions. It's a democratic process that belongs in the hands of many. And as we've seen on X since @CommunityNotes debuted, https://t.co/zg51yUTGG1 Linda Yaccarino (@lindayaX) January 7, 2025 Zuckerberg, in his video on Tuesday, said the company tried its best to be accurate with its fact checks, but incorrectly flagging even 1% of content on its platforms still negatively affected millions of users. Weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Meta boss also pointed to recent elections, like Donald Trumps victory over Kamala Harris in November, as a cultural tipping point that made prioritizing free speech vital. Zuckerberg said that, following the 2016 election, the legacy media wrote nonstop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy. But the fact checkers, he said, have been too politically biased and destroyed the publics faith theyre simply calling balls and strikes. Last month, Meta said it was donating $1 million to Trumps inauguration fund a move that was copied by Amazon and Apple CEO Tim Cook. Musk, meanwhile, spent more than $140 million to help Trump win his second term in the White House. Metas new Community Notes-style program will be implemented over the next few months, Zuckerberg noted. He added that the company would be easing up on censoring content tied to hot button topics like immigration and gender moving forward. The post Elon Musk Applauds Metas Awesome Decision to Copy His Community Notes appeared first on TheWrap. An Elon Musk biographer has sounded the alarm that the worlds richest man may be losing his mind. The Harvard Law-educated biographer Seth Abramson speculated Monday that Musk might be going mad in a setting for all to seebrought on by his growing stress, history of mental illness, and self-described heavy drug use. I legitimately believe Elon Musk may be going mad, he posted to X. Im a Musk biographer who has been tracking his online behavior for the last two yearsand given that hes admitted to all of mental illness, heavy drug use, and crippling stress, it is now reasonable to fear he is deeply unwell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abramson, 48, added that Musks mental state could have consequences worldwide. Seth Abramson photographed in 2016 as he speaks on a local radio program in New Hampshire. / Wikimedia Commons His private struggles would not be of general concern except they have dramatic public consequences, he said. His holdings across many civilization-essential industries and the fact that hes the incoming POTUS mean that his madness and increasing incitement of violence endanger us all. The biographers informed warning, as he described it, comes after Musk went on a posting frenzy about British politics that has ruffled more than a few feathers across the pond. A tracking website says that Musk has averaged 62 posts daily for the last week. It appears Musks relentless postingand near-constant presence near Donald Trumpmay also be annoying some in the MAGA world, including its leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was reported shortly after the election that Musk had a massive blow-up with a Trump aide inside Mar-a-Lago regarding the leaking of Trumps cabinet picks. More recently, The New York Times journalist and Trump whisperer Maggie Haberman said on a podcast this weekend that Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot. Elon Musk has reportedly been renting a cottage in Palm Beach in close proximity to the president-elect. / Brandon Bell/Getty Images Trump hasnt shared such a sentiment publicly. He has instead embraced Musk, 53, as his First Buddya title and relationship that conveniently came on the heels of the South Africa native pumping at least $250 million into his campaign. Musk has reportedly been renting out the $2,000-per-night Banyan Cottage at Mar-a-Lago, from where he has been crashing the president-elects dinners with tech billionaires and has also sat in on personnel meetings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From his new South Florida digs, Musk has also shown that he plans to flex his immense influence beyond U.S. politics. He endorsed the German far-right party Alternative for Germany ahead of the countrys snap election last month and has since diverted his Twitter fingers to trying to overthrow the current British government. Abramson suggested the outgoing Biden Administration should use its final weeks in power to put in safeguards to protect againstor at least try to limitMusk before Trump steps foot in the Oval Office. This urgent action, he said, could include ending U.S. contracts with him, filing lawsuits to block his Department of Government Efficiency initiative, and launching federal probes into his dealings. If no action is takenand I suspect no action will be takenwhat this man in his burgeoning madness does to America as POTUS in the coming years will be on the heads of not just him and those who support or enable him but those who ignored urgent, informed warnings like this one, Abramson concluded. LONDON (AP) Fresh from pouring his money and energies into helping Donald Trump win reelection, Elon Musk has trained his sights on Europe, setting off alarm bells among politicians across the continent. The Tesla and SpaceX chief executive has endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany, demanded the release of jailed U.K. anti-Islam extremist Tommy Robinson and called British Prime Minister Keir Starmer an evil tyrant who should be in prison. Many European politicians have been left concerned by the attention. Musks feed on his social network X is dotted with abusive language labeling politicians stupid cretin and sniveling cowards as well as retweets of far-right and anti-immigrant accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andrew Chadwick, professor of political communication at Loughborough University, said Musk is using X a bit like an old-style newspaper mogul, to promulgate his political views. Weve seen Musk start to align himself much more obviously with an international movement of the far right, Chadwick said. If you look at the kinds of people who Musk himself is boosting on his platform hes increasingly started to assemble a group of different right-wing influencers, many of them with large followings, and presenting their evidence as a basis for his interventions into European politics. Musk has inserted himself into politics in Germany, which is headed for a Feb. 23 election after center-left Chancellor Olaf Scholzs fractious three-party coalition government collapsed. On Dec. 20, Musk wrote on X: Only the AfD can save Germany, a reference to the Alternative for Germany party, which is under observation by the domestic intelligence agency for suspected extremism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He doubled down on support for the AfD in an article for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper, claiming Germany is teetering on the edge of economic and cultural collapse. Later this week Musk is due to hold a live chat on X with AfD co-leader Alice Weidel. Scholzs response embodies the dilemma faced by European politicians should they ignore and let Musks comments go unchallenged, or engage and risk amplifying them? Scholz has said its important to stay cool over personal attacks, but called Musks involvement in German politics worrying. In a new year message, Scholz pointedly noted that Germanys way forward will not be decided by the owners of social media channels but by German voters. French President Emmanuel Macron warned Monday about the risks posed by unchecked power in the hands of tech billionaires and the destabilizing impact they could have on democratic institutions. 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. Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis said Musks behavior was troubling and far from amusing. Someone cannot simply use their platform, wealth and connections to try to dictate how governments are formed in each nation, he told Parapolitika Radio. This is becoming increasingly dangerous. Musk has increasingly focused on British politics since the center-left Labour Party was elected in July, calling Starmer an evil leader presiding over a tyrannical police state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks recent focus is on child sexual abuse, particularly a series of cases that rocked northern England towns several years ago, in which groups of men, largely from Pakistani backgrounds, were tried for grooming and abusing dozens of mostly white girls. The cases have been used by far-right activists to link child abuse to immigration and Islam. Musk has accused Starmer of failing to bring perpetrators to justice when he was Englands director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013 a charge Starmer strongly denies. Starmer must go and he must face charges for his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain, Musk tweeted. Chadwick said theres been a hesitancy on the part of the political elite in the U.K. to engage with Musks incredibly inflammatory remarks. But Starmer changed tack Monday, condemning lies and misinformation and accusing U.K. Conservative politicians who have echoed some of Musks points of amplifying what the far right are saying. 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, the prime minister said. Starmer is facing calls to tighten Britains laws on foreign interference, and governments around the world are under pressure to leave X. Both the U.K. and German governments say they have no plans to quit the platform. Musks X is under investigation by European authorities attempting to curb hatred, disinformation and other toxic content on social media. The European Union has launched infringement proceedings against X under the blocs Digital Services Act, and EU spokesman Thomas Regnier said it will look at whether Musk's livestream interview Thursday with the AfD's Weidel gives inappropriate preferential treatment to the party during a preelection period. Musk, a self-styled free-speech advocate, is critical of efforts to regulate social media. He has compared British attempts to weed out online misinformation through the Online Safety Act to censorship in the Soviet Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk clearly enjoys baiting mainstream politicians on social media, but Chadwick said it remains to be seen whether his posting changes public attitudes or helps the causes he champions. And the political interventions carry risk for him. His comments are being watched closely by Tesla investors for signs he could be turning off car buyers who dont agree with his politics. Tesla is already struggling in Europe, where new registrations for Musks electronic vehicles fell 13% in the first nine months of 2023, according to auto researcher Jato Dynamics. In Germany, Tesla registrations dropped 44%. Jato senior analyst Felipe Munoz said that Musk's outspokenness is rare and risky for the owner of a publicly traded company though it may pay off in the end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Europe is going to (the) right, he said, pointing to politicians including Frances Marine Le Pen and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni. Look at what happened in the U.S. His bet on Trump worked. He is playing the same game in Europe. ___ Geir Moulson in Berlin; Sylvie Corbet in Paris; Raf Casert in Brussels; Derek Gatopoulos in Athens, Greece; and Bernard Condon in New York contributed to this story. The leaders of the UK, Germany, and France have condemned Elon Musk's comments about Europe. His frequent X posts have become increasingly extreme in recent days. It's not clear how these interventions benefit Musk, but they don't appear to be hurting him either. Donald Trump is less than two weeks away from being sworn in as president for the second time. But, after spending hundreds of millions helping him return to the White House in an election he said would decide "the fate of Western civilization," Elon Musk is increasingly focused on European politics. Musk has said he became outspoken on politics to "defeat the woke mind virus." Since Trump's election, he has turned his brash focus toward Europe in his frequent posts on X. He's called for the release of a far-right agitator from prison in the UK, called the country's leader "utterly despicable," and wondered whether America should "liberate" Britain all in the past week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has inserted himself into and fueled a political row over the UK government's handling of an inquiry into gangs who sexually exploited children. When he acquired Twitter, now called X, in 2022, he said combating images of child sexual abuse on the platform was "Priority #1." Musk has also endorsed Germany's far-right AfD party ahead of elections there in late February. His comments have earned him rebukes from leaders across the continent. Musk's interventions have been condemned by the leaders of Germany, France, and the UK "Don't feed the troll," German chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday after Musk posted that "only the AfD can save Germany." On Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron 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." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who leads the left-leaning Labour Party, hit back at Musk, without naming him, in a speech the same day, saying: "Those who are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims they're interested in themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk plans to host a conversation on X with the AfD's leader this week. He earlier defended his intervention in Germany in an op-ed in Welt am Sonntag, saying he has "significant investments" there Tesla has a factory near Berlin. (Welt am Sonntag, along with Business Insider and Politico, are owned by Axel Springer.) But, unlike in America, his political interventions in Europe don't obviously affect those investments. Tesla stock closed at $251 on Election Day in November. It then surged as investors recognized that Musk's gamble backing Trump had paid off. As Musk has posted about Europe in recent days, Tesla's stock has remained relatively stable, closing at $411 on Monday, suggesting that investors are paying little, if any, attention. Musk has become particularly engrossed in UK politics The world's richest person has been posting and reposting dozens of times a day on X. He's also boosting the reach of those he endorses to his 211 million followers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk posted last week about the UK's grooming scandal, calling for Starmer to resign and be jailed for "his complicity in the worst mass crime in the history of Britain." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer hit back at Elon Musk on Monday. Henry Nicholls/Getty Images This was followed on Saturday by a front-page Daily Mail story headlined, "Starmer 'guilty as anyone' over grooming gangs." The comment was from a former detective and whistleblower who helped expose pedophile gangs, but Musk's posts have fueled the story and helped keep it on the front pages of arguably the UK's most influential newspaper. On Tuesday, Politico even attributed a government response in the House of Commons regarding the scandal to Musk, saying he had "elicited some action." Musk turned on Nigel Farage, the British politician and Trump ally Other British newspapers, such as the Daily Telegraph, have also carried significant coverage of Musk's comments and reported that Musk was mulling a huge donation to Nigel Farage's Reform UK party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farage has called Musk a "hero," but Musk said on Sunday that Farage, a member of Parliament and a friend of Trump's, should quit as leader. He appears to have turned on him after Farage didn't follow his call for far-right agitator Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, who calls himself Tommy Robinson, to be freed from prison. Yaxley-Lennon is serving a sentence for contempt of court after repeating untrue claims about a Syrian refugee, for which he was previously successfully sued for defamation. Nigel Farage, the head of the Reform UK party, enjoyed Musk's support until Musk on Sunday called for him to quit as leader. Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Musk's pivot was reported across Britain's front pages on Monday, and Starmer's attack on him was headline news on Tuesday. Some British commentators have run with Musk's comments to put pressure on the Labour government. On Monday, Piers Morgan wrote on X that Starmer "must order a full no-holds-barred national inquiry into exactly what happened in the appalling gang rape scandal," including "who was accountable for such lengthy systemic failure of justice." Morgan said Starmer should also investigate "his own role," as Starmer was the country's chief prosecutor when the scandals first emerged before he entered politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk's interventions in the US benefited him materially. The analyst Dan Ives called Trump's reelection a "home run" for Tesla, with the stock rising the day after the election. Having the new president's ear will likely help Musk secure policies favorable to his companies. There is no obvious corollary in Europe, leaving many wondering how this is benefiting him. But the past few days also suggest Musk has little to lose by continuing to post whatever he likes on X. Read the original article on Business Insider Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, doesnt think too highly of his scorned former collaborator Elon Musk, saying he will do all sorts of bad things - but wont use his newfound political influence to take down competitors. Despite years of feuding and Musk leveling a dramatic lawsuit containing allegations of ethical violations against Altman and OpenAI, Altman defended Musk when asked if he thought Musk would use his political power and friendship with President-elect Donald Trump to target his rivals. Oh, I think hell do all sorts of bad s***, Altman told Bloomberg in an interview on Sunday. I think hell continue to sue us and drop lawsuits and make new lawsuits and whatever else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altman continued, ... Will he abuse his political power of being co-president, or whatever he calls himself now, to mess with a business competitor? I dont think hell do that. I genuinely dont. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman once collaborated with Elon Musk to create the artificial intelligence company. While he doesnt think too fondly of Musks future, he did say he doesnt believe Musk will use his new political influence to target rivals (Getty Images) Musk and Altman once sought to save humanity from the dangers of artificial intelligence through the co-founded company OpenAI the parent company of ChatGPT. However, a dispute over the direction of the company, and an internal power struggle, led to a falling out between the two. Musk ultimately left the company in 2018 and has since worked to create his own AI company. The battle between Altman and Musk turned publicly nasty last year when Musk filed a lawsuit against the company and Altman claiming he and other executives breached the companys founding agreement to benefit humanity over profit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk made his feelings about Altman and OpenAI evident in mocking social media posts. Musk dropped the lawsuit but filed another one against Altman and OpenAI, this time elevating his accusations to claim OpenAI worked with Microsoft, an investor, to create a monopoly. The billionaire also alleged the company violated its founding claim as a nonprofit by pursuing profit. OpenAI has denied the allegations. Musk has proven to be a powerful figure in politics thanks to his proximity to President-elect Donald Trump (Getty Images) In December, the artificial intelligence company posted a lengthy, accusatory blog post that included screenshots of emails and texts showing Musk agreeing the company should pivot from nonprofit to for-profit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They claimed Musk bitterly left the company after the board refused to make him CEO or agree to his suggestion to merge Tesla and OpenAI. They claim Musk started his artificial intelligence company, xAI, to compete directly with OpenAI. He says a lot of things, starts them, undoes them, gets sued, sues, gets in fights with the government, gets investigated by the government. Thats just Elon being Elon, Altman told Bloomberg. But Altman believes that he and Musk still share a conviction that artificial intelligence is important but needs to be handled carefully. Despite Musks close proximity to Trump having been named co-chair of the advisory board the Department of Government Efficiency Altman does not think Musk would go so far as to use his power to quash a competitor. May turn out to be proven wrong, Altman added. Enron has announced the Enron Egg, a micro-nuclear reactor that the newly reformed company claims can power homes for a decade. The only catch is that the parody companys revolution in energy, which comes complete with a highly-produced launch video, appears to be just an elaborate joke. Still, the shiny, white Enron Egg is allegedly available for pre-order, Enron said, calling it the worlds first micro-nuclear reactor made to power your home. Interested parties would just need to submit their email addresses to subscribe to the newsletter and be the first to know when we launch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This product is gonna revolutionize three critical industries. The power industry, the independence industry, and the freedom industry. This product is gonna revolutionize all three, Enron CEO Connor Gaydos claimed in a video presentation announcing the egg. Gaydos is also the co-founder of the satirical Birds Aren't Real movement, which asserts that all real birds existing in the U.S. had been forcibly made extinct and were replaced by the government with surveillance drones that look like birds. The miraculous egg, which is presented as nuclear you can trust, would be provided to FEMAs rapid response teams, he said. It could power a home for as long as a decade. So this appears to be real Enron is back They are making nuke reactors For your home to power your Tesla and toaster And its called the Enron Egg https://t.co/A9fexgWKdx Jesse Hamel (@jhMITgunship) January 7, 2025 All of this made possible by the Enron mining division, which has been sourcing the proprietary enronium ore, which I think youll agree has unlocked a new atomic age, said Gaydos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, there is no such thing as enronium. Uranium ore is what is mined and used to produce nuclear energy. The video also featured Enrons purported Chief Technology Officer Daniel Wong, who was reportedly responsible for the design of the egg. Wong touted the eggs extreme heat resistance which is made possible by its advanced enronium [isotope] casing. Enron CEO Connor Gaydos poses for a photo holding the Enron Egg. The Egg, a micro-nuclear reactor, is a parody, but the launch had social media users questioning its legitimacy (Enron) At the heart of the egg, lies a uranium zirconium hydride-fueled reactor, chosen for its safety and efficiency, he explained, noting that the reactor has a little TV so the Enron team is always watching. Enron said that the egg only uses 20 percent enriched uranium, which is far too low to make an atomic weapon, Wong assured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company noted on its website that a closed-loop cooling system ensures safe operation without environmental contamination and that safety is a top priority in the eggs design. Meet The Enron Egg, the worlds first at-home nuclear reactor. Watch the historic reveal. pic.twitter.com/VUHbuuBwjA Enron (@Enron) January 6, 2025 The pair walked off the stage to the Black Eyed Peas hit song I Gotta Feeling. The price for the rigorously tested product that adheres to strict safety standards for residential use is unlisted. It doesnt mention any radiation, set up, or servicing. The Enron Egg is significantly more affordable than traditional energy systems, which cost between $19,000 and $50,000 while being subject to power fluctuations. The Egg offers a reliable, constant energy source at a fraction of the long-term cost, Enron says. The Enron Egg sits in front of a fireplace in this advertisement. The egg is allegedly available for pre-order (Enron) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Companies are investing in nuclear energy more and more, as they look for cleaner sources of energy to support artificial intelligence demands. Microreactors are real, and they could be used for emergency response, according to the Department of Energy. While commercial microreactors may be coming that are a good deal larger than the egg and Enron was once a real energy company, the egg rollout has earned a Community Note on the social media platform X. The product launch is satire, the note said. Enron returned to the public eye in December. Not everyone got the parody right away, but those who did had a laugh. You have to break a few eggs to make a nuclear omelet! wrote X user @DreamStarter_1, alongside an image of an omelet topped with a vibrant green swirl. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Writer Jim Miller is a contributor to Today on NBC and author of The Savvy Senior. Warning: The video attached to this story may be considered disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) Evansville Police charged a man for animal neglect after authorities say an officer had to shoot and kill a dog at a home in the 600 block of College Highway. According to Evansville Police, officers assisted Evansville Animal Care and Control at the home on January 6 at approximately 12:45 p.m. as part of an investigation into inadequate housing of an outdoor dog. According to a release, Animal Control had previously responded to the home 16 times over similar neglect concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say a large dog was being housed in an open-air style kennel with a tarp wrapped around two sides. There was reportedly a frozen bowl of water present in the kennel and the temperature at the time of removal was 24 degrees. Officers say they spent approximately 30 minutes at the scene attempting to safely remove the dog. The dogs owner was instructed to leash the dog and walk it to the Animal Control vehicle. However, authorities say while the owner was attempting to leash the dog, it began to run toward one of the officers. Authorities say the dogs approach escalated into aggressive behavior, including jumping up with its mouth open in an attacking manor very close to the officer. In response to the dogs attack, the officer fired his handgun three times at the dog. Police say the dog succumbed to its injuries. The owner of the dog was issued a citation for animal neglect. Police say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be considered as the case progresses. 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). Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Monday to uphold Syrias territorial integrity as he promised to continue his countrys fight against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). With the epic revolution that took place in our neighbour Syria, a new era has begun both in this country and in our region, he said during a speech following his cabinets first meeting of 2025. Erdogan reiterated that Turkey supports Syria in its efforts to avoid destabilisation, and warned that Ankara would act swiftly against perceived threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we see a risk in this regard, we will take the necessary steps swiftly, he said. Erdogan's comments come amid a wave of Israeli airstrikes on weapons and military infrastructure in Syria. Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in the country since the outbreak of the country's civil war in 2011, though it rarely acknowledges them. It says its targets are Iranian-backed groups that supported Syria's ousted president, Bashar al-Assad. Related During his speech, the Turkish leader also addressed the nations decades-long campaign against the PKK. The circle is closing for the separatist organisation and its extension," he said, referring to the Kurdish Peoples Defence Units (YPG) in northern Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Erdogan pledged to achieve a terror-free Turkey through peaceful means if possible, but with force if necessary an allusion to a proposal from ultranationalists that the imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan be released in exchange for the the armed group's total disbandment. During Syria's uprising-turned-conflict, the Kurdish-dominated Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) carved out an enclave of semi-autonomous rule across northeastern Syria, never fully allying themselves either with al-Assad in Damascus or with the rebels trying to overthrow him. Ankara sees the SDF as an affiliate of its sworn enemy, the PKK, which it considers a terrorist organisation. Turkey regularly launches strikes against Kurdish fighters in Syria and neighbouring Iraq, accusing them of being PKK-linked. Even with the al-Assad family out of the picture, Ankaras stance appears unchanged. This was evident in Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidans landmark visit to Syria, as he reaffirmed a strong position on the Kurdish-led group during his meeting with Ahmad al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, the rebel group that ousted al-Assad last month. ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey is working to ensure that Syria's transformation over the last month will not bring new instabilities to the region, President Tayyip Erdogan told the Iraqi Kurdish prime minister, Erdogan's office said on Tuesday. Erdogan met Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of neighbouring Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region, in Ankara and the presidency published a photo of the pair shaking hands. The visit comes as Turkey has repeatedly said there is no place in Syria's future for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and its extensions, after a rebellion last month ousted former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Erdogan repeated that message in the meeting and also "stated that Turkey attaches importance to the preservation of Iraq's stability and security, especially in light of the developments in Syria," the readout from his office said. Turkey has been calling for the YPG militia in northeast Syria to disband since Assad's fall. It regards YPG as an extension of the PKK, which is deemed a terrorist group by Ankara, Washington and the European Union. The YPG spearheads the U.S.-allied Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast and played a key role defeating Islamic State militants in 2014-2017. The group still guards Islamic State fighters in prison camps there. (Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever; editing by Jonathan Spicer) NEW YORK Mayor Eric Adams announced a small annual drop in crime Monday, as he seeks to reaffirm his central promise of making the city safer ahead of a tough reelection bid. Joined by his new police commissioner, Jessica Tisch the fourth person to hold that job during his three-year tenure the Democratic mayor announced the seven major index crimes tracked by the NYPD decreased by 2.9 percent from 2023 to last year. Murders, robberies, burglaries, thefts and stolen automobiles are on the decline, coupled with an increase in arrests that brought major felony collars to a 26-year high a trend that continues to solidify New York as the safest big city in the country. Nevertheless, rapes increased by nearly 19 percent, which the commissioner pegged in part to new reporting criteria, and felony assaults were up 5 percent compared to the year before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The average New Yorker would believe that theyre 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 would show. Reducing crime has been a central component of the Adams brand. He pledged to make the city safer during his 2021 campaign, and he is staking his reelection bid on that same theme. Certain types of violent crime have fallen dramatically on his watch shootings have decreased by roughly 42 percent and murders have dropped by nearly 23 percent. But he still faces several obstacles. For starters, overall crime has actually gone up since Adams became mayor. While index crimes in 2024 were the lowest of his three years in office, they were still roughly 20 percent higher than 2021, the year he campaigned on making the city safer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, New Yorkers as recently as October still ranked crime as their top concern despite improvements in several areas a problem the mayor discussed in a recent interview with POLITICO where he pointed to problems caused by Albany and other elements of the criminal justice system beyond his control. Adams and his police commissioner sought to encapsulate the split screen of crime statistics and crime perception with data covering the citys subway system. Crime there fell by 5.4 percent between 2023 and 2024, putting infractions well below pre-pandemic levels. We had a billion people use our subway system. A billion, Adams said. With those billion, we dropped crime in the subway system by 5.4 percent. Perception has not followed, Adams argued, in part because of several high-profile crimes like the recent fatal burning of a passenger. To counter that narrative, Tisch said she is deploying 200 additional officers to platforms and trains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know that 78 percent of transit crime occurs on trains and on platforms, she said. And that is quite obviously where our officers need to be. Both the commissioner and mayor said past legislative actions are keeping crime stubbornly high and hampering the NYPDs efforts. We have far too many people who are making decisions without understanding the impact on the ground, Adams said, referring to legislation that decriminalized public urination and sleeping in public places. During Adams recent interview with POLITICO, he criticized former Gov. Andrew Cuomo for signing off on a suite of criminal justice legislation in 2019 that included eliminating cash bail for certain offenses. And on Monday, Tisch cited those laws as the reason for increased recidivism that is driving up felony assaults in particular. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The key driving factor is the revolving door of our criminal justice system, created in large part by legislative changes that took effect in 2020, Tisch said. Representatives for Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins did not immediately respond, but both legislative leaders have pushed back on assertions their handiwork has led to an increase in crime in New York City. On Monday, Adams was careful to avoid invoking bail reform specifically, indicating only that he wanted to reduce recidivism. But when pressed, he did not offer specific legislative fixes to achieve that aim aside from pushing both reforms to the discovery process sought by New York City district attorneys and legislation that would clarify the city can forcibly detain homeless individuals suffering from severe mental illness. We presented a proposal for two years in a row, and were going to revisit this conversation when we return to Albany, he said. The man who allegedly removed his mother from oxygen and dumped water on her is being blamed for her death. Chad Walburn, 40, has been arraigned on a charge of first-degree murder. Erie police investigate recent homicides, adding citys total cases up to 5 in 2024 Walburn had been in police custody on charges including aggravated assault since the incident on October 23 in the 3800 block of Stanley Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said Walburn was responsible for the death of his bedridden mother, 63-year-old Phyllis Walburn. Coroner rules Erie womans death a homicide after a week in a coma Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook ruled her death a homicide in October. There was a lot of moving parts to this investigation so we just wanted to make sure that everything aligned with obviously the coroners report and our detectives investigation. At this point in time, the official coroners report is out listing it as a homicide and after conferring with the district attorneys office, obviously, those charges were then filed, said Rick Lorah, deputy chief of Erie Police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walburn was denied bail and is being held at the Erie County Prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) Ethiopias Orthodox Christians are celebrating Christmas with prayers for peace in the Horn of Africa nation that has faced persistent conflict in recent years. Ethiopians follow the Julian calendar, which runs 13 days later than the Gregorian calendar, used by Catholic and Protestant churches. They traditionally celebrate by slaughtering animals and joining family members to break the fast after midnight. The patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, Abune Mathias, in his televised Christmas Eve message called for reconciliation and peace in a nation where conflict has been often fueled by ethnic strife. Different parts of Ethiopia recently have also faced natural calamities, including mudslides. Earthquakes last week in the remote regions of Afar, Amhara and Oromia have displaced thousands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the signing of a peace agreement to end the armed conflict in the northern region of Tigray in 2022, recurring conflicts in Amhara, Oromia and elsewhere have caused widespread suffering and forced 9 million children to drop out of school, according to UNICEF. Almaz Zewdie, who was among thousands of Orthodox Christians attending ceremonies in Addis Ababas Medhanyalem Church, said she was praying for peace. She was draped in an all-white traditional attire to mark the end of a 43-day fasting period and the birth of Jesus Christ. I lost friends and my livelihood, said Zewdie, a merchant from the tourist town of Gondar, speaking of the toll of the conflict in Amhara, where government troops have been fighting members of a local militia. Isaias Seyoum, a priest in Addis Ababas Selassie Church, said the celebration of Christmas is more than just feasting and merrymaking. It is also a time to share meals with needy people and help those impacted by conflict, including many sheltering in Addis Ababa, he said. Brussels is considering punishing Elon Musk over his alleged interference in the German elections. The European Commission is under mounting pressure to use its legal powers over social media platforms to rein in the tech billionaire ahead of next months ballot. There are fears across the European Union that Mr Musk is trying to embolden the far-Right and peddling pro-Kremlin propaganda. One of the chief concerns is that the richest man in the world has tweaked the algorithm of his social network X to deliberately push his posts to the top of users timelines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent weeks, Mr Musk has declared Alternative for Germany (AfD) the last vestige of hope for Germany, as well as inviting Alice Weidel, the hard-Right partys candidate for chancellor, for a one-on-one interview hosted on his platform ahead of the Feb 23 ballot. Alice Weidel (right), co-leader of Alternative for Germany, has been invited by Elon Musk onto X for an interview - Maryam Majd/Getty Images A senior EU source told The Telegraph it was important to look into the way algorithms push certain content at the expense of others. The commission said Mr Musk was responsible for any different systemic risks posed by their services, including risks for electoral processes when publishing content on X. This includes the obligation to analyse and mitigate risks deriving from any preferential treatment or visibility given to content on a given platform, including Mr Musks content on his own platform, a spokesman for the EUs Brussels-based executive said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission used similar language when it opened a formal probe into TikTok for breaching the blocs digital rule book over not doing enough to prevent alleged Russian interference in Romanias recent presidential election. Calin Georgescu, a pro-Vladimir Putin candidate, went viral on the Chinese platform before surprisingly topping the polls. If X is also deemed to breach the same rules, the platform faces fines of up to 6 per cent of its global turnover under the EUs Digital Services Act (DSA). Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, has already called out Elon Musk over Xs influence in Germany - SARAH MEYSSONNIER/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock The Telegraph understands that commission officials are combing over Xs algorithm to ensure it doesnt unfairly over-promote political parties or causes supported by Mr Musk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are also monitoring the social media platform to check whether words or ideas are being unfairly pushed to its users. However, they are being careful not to be seen to be impinging on Mr Musks freedom of speech. Some in Brussels are particularly concerned by Mr Musks relationship with Putin, given the blocs support for Ukraine. The Tesla boss is alleged to have held discussions with the Russian president and Sergei Kiriyenko, his chief propagandist. Nick Reiners, a geo-technology analyst at Eurasia Group, said: The head of X is talking to the Kremlins head of propaganda and information warfare, while essentially prosecuting a kind of propaganda war. Sergei Kiriyenko, Vladimir Putins propagandist-in-chief, has held talks with Elon Musk - Getty Images Europe While probably not directly on behalf of the Kremlin, it has the same effect. Hes the ultimate Russian troll and hes undermining European democracies, hes undermining the media, hes boosting the far-Right all things that the Russians are trying to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph understands that the EU Commission is seeking to adopt a more pragmatic approach, with Prabhat Agarwal, its head of DSA enforcement, holding talks with the company to ensure its algorithm complies with the blocs rules. But in behind-the-scenes discussions, European leaders are being urged to take a more combative approach to tackling Mr Musks apparent support for hard-Right parties. Is it credible to believe that one rich entrepreneur will be able to change the views of millions of voters on a continent he does not even know that well? a source asked. They added: We should be a bit more confident in our European democracies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, appeared to lead the charge earlier this week when he accused the tech multi-billionaire of interfering with elections. 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, Mr Macron said. Incompetent fool In Germany, where Mr Musk branded its chancellor Olaf Scholz an incompetent fool, a spokesman for the leader said Mr Musk would fail to influence the countrys voters. The normal people, the sensible people, the decent people are far in the majority in this country, the spokesman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The European Parliament will try to force the Commission to take action if Mr Musk is deemed to have helped sway the German elections. Its president, Roberta Metsola, has recently stepped up calls to ensure people, not bots decide the results of European elections. Sandro Gozi, a liberal MEP on the parliaments DSA committee, said: It is unacceptable for the European Commission to limit itself to vague statements about Elon Musks freedom of expression while failing to act against clear violations of the Digital Services Act by the platform X. A billionaire from Texas using his platform to meddle in European elections is intolerable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph has contacted X 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. Europe might soon feel "intense pressure" to reach some sort of an agreement with Russia regarding its war against Ukraine, Polands Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said in a post on X on Jan. 6. His words came only two weeks before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to quickly bring an end to the war but has not provided details on how he plans to do it. "We could soon face intense pressure to strike a deal with Moscow," Sikorski wrote after delivering a speech for French ambassadors in Paris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But what kind of deal would a sensible Europe accept? Certainly not an ordinary deal that would allow Moscow to regain its strength. Europe is much stronger than Russian leaders believe. Russia is much weaker than many Europeans believe," he added. Despite mounting economic challenges at home, Russian leaders have shown little interest in a peace deal and rejected reported proposals from Trump's team. Moscow's troops currently hold the upper hand on the battlefield, advancing in Donetsk Oblast and chipping away at Ukraine's positions in Kursk Oblast. "Ukraine deserves peace, needs peace. But it should be peace on fair terms, not capitulation," the Polish foreign minister wrote, adding that Europe should help position Kyiv to be in the best possible shape ahead of entering negotiations with Moscow. Zelensky recently said that Ukraine must do everything possible to end the war through diplomatic means in 2025, noting that the war would "end faster" under a Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron recently said that Ukraine should prepare for "realistic" discussions on territory, warning there will not be a "quick and easy solution" to the war. Read also: Incoming Ukraine peace envoy postpones visit to Kyiv until after Trumps inauguration, Reuters reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. ATHENS, Greece (AP) The European Court of Human Rights in a landmark ruling Tuesday found that Greece illegally deported a woman back to neighboring Turkey, and described the use of summary expulsions, or pushbacks, as systematic. The decision could impact how Europe handles migrants at its borders, at a time when Greece and several European Union member states are seeking tougher immigration controls. Frontline EU member states receive financial support from Brussels to handle illegal migration. A Turkish woman identified by her initials A.R.E. was awarded damages of 20,000 euros ($21,000) after the court ruled that she had been improperly expelled in 2019 after crossing into Greece, with no opportunity to make an asylum claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court considered that there were strong indications to suggest that there had existed, at the time of the events alleged, a systematic practice of pushbacks of third-country nationals by the Greek authorities, from the Evros region (on the Greek border) to Turkey, the decision said. Citing a lack of evidence, the court rejected a second claim made by an Afghan man who said he had been illegally returned to Turkey from the Greek island of Samos in 2020 when he was 15. Greek government representatives at the hearings denied the allegations, challenging the authenticity of the evidence presented and arguing that Greece's border policies comply with international law. Niamh Keady-Tabbal, a member of the legal team for the Afghan migrant, described the court's decision as broadly significant but also profoundly unjust regarding the man's case. It is quite unjust that such a cynical position of blanket denial can serve in practice to shield the Greek government from accountability, she told The Associated Press. The U.N. refugee agency has urged Greece to more thoroughly investigate multiple allegations of pushbacks, while several major human rights groups have described the alleged irregular deportations as systematic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greeces National Transparency Authority, a publicly funded corruption watchdog, said it found no evidence to support the pushback allegations following a four-month investigation in 2022. The European Court of Human Rights is an international court based in Strasbourg, France, that adjudicates human rights violations by 46 member states of the Council of Europe, a body older than the European Union and its predecessor, the European Economic Community. Greece registered more than 60,000 illegal arrivals of migrants last year, an increase of nearly 50% from 2023. It seeks direct funding from the EU to pay for the planned expansion of a border wall along the land frontier with Turkey. ___ Follow APs coverage of migration issues at https://apnews.com/hub/migration A winter storm that rolled through the Colorado Springs area left many parts with 3-plus inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service in Pueblo. The Broadmoor Bluffs neighborhood and Bear Creek Regional Park areas on the southwest side of Colorado Springs received 3.2 and 3.1 inches of snow from the weather system that moved into the Pikes Peak region Monday night and continued into Tuesday afternoon. North of Monument, near County Line Road, 3 inches of snow was reported by the Weather Service. Areas around Colorado Springs largely received 1.5 to 2.5 inches of snow. The big winners appeared to be further south, where the Cucharra area got 5.3 inches of snow and Wetmore had 5 inches of accumulation. Pueblo West had about 3.5 inches. Click or tap here for the latest snow totals around Colorado. All winter weather advisories have been ended, according to the Weather Service. Looking ahead Snow showers will be ending from the north to the south Tuesday, according to Lauren Brand, meteorologist with Gazette news partner KOAA. A low temperature of 8 is forecast Tuesday night for Colorado Springs, according to the Weather Service. Sunny skies and a high of 38 are expected Wednesday before the chance of snow (30%) returns Thursday with a forecast high of 31. Snow removal Fifty snow plows were being used late Monday and Tuesday to clear primary routes and other streets, said Corey Farkas, Public Works' operations and maintenance division manager. He said there's some key differences between this storm, the last one we saw in November, and the next one expected Thursday. "There's not a lot of moisture this time compared to the snow in November," Farkas said, referring back to the early-November storm that dropped more than 21 inches of snow on Colorado Springs. "Also there's no high winds yet. Thursday's storm will be faster moving and have more wind which could bring blowing snow." Farkas said it would be a busy week for snow removal crews because of possible snow showers Thursday and Saturday. He said the lack of sun for the next storm later in the week and freezing temperatures could make roadways more hazardous. He explained everything the material is melting will refreeze, so the plows were trying to get as much snow off the roads as possible Tuesday. Snow removal efforts in the county were similar. Tim Stickel, highway division manager for El Paso County's Department of Public Works, said crews started work at midnight and had 38 plows in service on the first shift and 32 plows going later Tuesday on the second shift. 10 a.m. Thursday The Colorado Springs area woke up to snow, slick roadways and disrupted school schedules Tuesday thanks to a winter storm system that moved in the region overnight. Colorado Springs District 11, Harrison District 2, Cheyenne Mountain District 12, Manitou Springs District 14, James Irwin Charter Schools, the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind, and Chavez/Huerta K-12 Preparatory Academy are all closed for the day. Academy District 20 schools along with District 49, Banning Lewis Academy, CIVA Charter High School, and Pueblo School for Arts & Sciences are among schools and districts that reported two-hour delays. Sign Up for Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Peterson and Schriever space force bases also announced two-hour delays; Fort Carson had a three-hour delay. All Clerk and Recorder Departments and DMV branches will close early, at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. They say many motor vehicle services are accessible online. Click here for the full list of latest closings and delays. Meanwhile, the Colorado Springs and Fountain police departments announced that they had moved to accident alert status. If there are no serious injuries or fatalities, no suspected impairment and no damage to public property, drivers are asked to exchange information and report the crash within 72 hours. Helpful links Click or tap here for Colorado Springs-area road updates on The Gazette's live interactive traffic map. Click or tap here for CDOT updates on the latest road conditions. Click or tap here for updates on flight delays or cancellations. Looking ahead, early Tuesday Colorado Springs had 1.5 inches of snow accumulation as of 7:45 a.m. Tuesday at the official reporting station at the Colorado Springs Airport, according to the National Weather Service in Pueblo. "I think we'll see another couple inches with the bulk of that falling this morning," said Eric Petersen, a meteorologist with the Weather Service. "After we get past 11-12 it'll get lighter in the afternoon lingering into on and off flurries." He said he expects snow accumulation to stop by 4 or 5 p.m. . Meteorologist Alan Rose with Gazette news partner KOAA has received reports of 2.5 to 3 inches of snow at Fort Carson and between 1-1.5 inches around town as of 8:15 a.m. Tuesday. "The worst of the storm can be expected through late this morning," Rose said. "This storm won't be elevation dependent like many storms we see. In fact, some of the highest totals may end up being in places like Security-Widefield, Fort Carson, Fountain, Pueblo and Canon City." Rose says the snow will be winding down Tuesday evening and the storm will clear out, leaving temperatures very cold in the single digits in Colorado Springs and Pueblo. He believes we will see a total of 2-5 inches of snow accumulation, but some areas in southern El Paso County could get between 4-7 inches. "Snow will continue at times through this afternoon, and at times, snow could be heavy," Rose said. "This could lead to quick accumulations, poor visibility and rapidly worsening conditions on the roads." Tech billionaire Elon Musk is getting wide pushback in European capitals as he tries to extend his recent political success to the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaders in four European countries France, Germany, Norway and the United Kingdom denounced his influence in separate statements Monday, warning that Musk, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, should not involve himself in their countries politics. Musk, the worlds wealthiest person and a close ally of President-elect Donald Trump, has been on a social media rampage against various world leaders, posting relentlessly on his social media app, X, and trying to duplicate the influence he had on U.S. politics last year. On numerous occasions, Musk has boosted far-right candidates in various European countries with his social media posts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks message has proven divisive, and the resentment appeared to boil over Monday among leaders of some of Europes largest and most powerful countries. French President Emmanuel Macron, without naming Musk, took a swipe at him in an address in Paris about foreign policy. 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, according to The Associated Press, alluding to Musks endorsement of a far-right German political party. In Germany, the government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Musk by name and predicted that his social media posting would not work with the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The normal people, the sensible people, the decent people are far in the majority in this country, a government spokesman said, according to the national broadcaster Deutsche Welle. We act as if Mr. Musks 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 said. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was asked about Musk at a news conference about child sexual abuse cases. Musk has accused Starmer of not doing enough to stop the abuses when he was a prosecutor an accusation that Starmer, without naming Musk, dismissed as a self-promoting lie. Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible are not interested in victims. Theyre interested in themselves, he said, according to Sky News. Starmer said those people get a vicarious thrill from street violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And although Norway has been a pivotal proving ground for Tesla for a decade, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre decried Musks political influence in an interview Monday. 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, he told public broadcaster NRK, according to Reuters. This is not the way things should be between democracies and allies, he said. It was not clear whether the four governments had coordinated their statements, but the timing of their comments within a few hours of one another presented a unified front against Musk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk did not respond to a request for comment on the statements. In posts Monday on X, he reveled in the influence he was having at least on online debate. He solicited responses for a poll asking whether America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. He promoted a potential internet service deal between SpaceX and the Italian government, led by far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. And he celebrated the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, another object of Musks online wrath in recent weeks. He also speculated on the possibility of Greenlands becoming part of the United States. Musk, a naturalized U.S. citizen who was born and raised in South Africa, has a long-standing habit of offering political punditry on X, including a series of posts in the past two years predicting a civil war in Europe statements that befuddled experts. Musk spent more than $250 million last year to boost the Trump campaign and other Republican candidates in the United States, and he transformed X into an echo chamber for pro-Trump views and accounts. Since the election, Musk has taken on various roles for Trump, including serving as a kind of roving international envoy. He traveled with Trump to Paris last month for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, met with Irans ambassador to the United Nations in November, according to The New York Times, and briefly joined a phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to The Wall Street Journal, and he had dinner in 2023 with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other tech CEOs in San Francisco. Musk is also a co-head of a Trump commission called the Department of Government Efficiency, an advisory body that is expected to make wide-ranging recommendations about spending cuts and deregulation. Anna Grzymaa-Busse, director of The Europe Center at Stanford University, said that Musks hostility is concerning for European leaders as a possible sign of how Trump may treat Europe once he returns to the White House later this month. This is one more step in transforming the US from a trusted ally to an unpredictable agent, she said in an email. In Europe, she said, Musk is widely seen as an ignorant but highly damaging force, and a proxy for Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liana Fix, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said that the dispute is taking place while the European Union is reviewing Musks X for possible violations of Europes Digital Services Act. The law sets out various regulatory requirements for social media platforms. Elon Musks comments are perceived by the EU as an attempt to bully Europeans into a softer approach towards platform regulation, with the threat of domestic turmoil, she said in an email. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Labour is steaming ahead with its Making Work Pay agenda, with a massive Employment Rights Bill which now runs to over 50,000 words. It covers topics such as day-one rights to protection against unfair dismissal, entitlement to flexible work, eligibility for sick pay, regulation of pay for adult social care workers, guaranteed hours of work (to minimise zero-hours contracts), and considerable extensions to trade union powers. It will be hard for employers, especially smaller businesses nearly all of which are worried about the legislation and intend to curb recruitment as a result to absorb the implications of their new obligations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed measures could have a profound impact on the future of the labour market, yet there is no guarantee they will meet the Governments own objectives. The Bill is presented as giving the British public the prosperity, security and dignity that everyone in Britain needs and deserves. Fine words, but no government can guarantee prosperity and security by legislative fiat, while dignity is very much a personal and subjective attribute. It will purportedly support the Governments mission to increase productivity ... and secure economic growth, though its difficult to see exactly how this is to be achieved. The Left frequently claims that a more contented, secure workforce will be more productive directly and will take fewer days off through sickness, and be less likely to leave a job in search of better conditions or to exit the workforce (as so many seem to have done since Covid). This will encourage businesses to invest more in training and skill development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All possible, but the evidence is patchy. And there are counter-indications: making it easier for trade unions to recruit and take strike action could lead, as with the railways and Royal Mail, to resistance to change and perpetuation of overstaffing. If the prospect of productivity gains is tenuous, the costs of these reforms will be heavy. The Governments own impact assessments suggest theyll cost 5bn a year, but this ignores the hidden red tape costs which the Bills new labour inspectorate Fair Work Agency will inevitably bring. Our independent Regulatory Policy Committee has already found these impact assessments not fit for purpose. Frances 3,000-page labour law Droit du Travail offers a stark warning of what to expect: no French manager dares move without this volume tucked under their arm. When the costs of implementing the Employment Rights Bill are added to other increases in the cost of employing workers the big hike in minimum wages, especially for younger workers, and the sharp rise in employer National Insurance contributions there surely have to be knock-on effects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While shareholders and consumers bear some of the costs, a large part must eventually fall on workers themselves through smaller wage increases than would otherwise have been the case, or fewer job opportunities for new entrants to the labour market. Indeed, the published impact assessments admit that the Bills measures will bear particularly heavily on the small and micro businesses which employ 40pc of the private sector workforce. These businesses cant afford to be as generous employers as big firms or the public sector, but they can offer a vital stepping-stone into work. Its for this reason that firms employing less than 50 are exempted from some French labour laws. However, the Government is not going down this route, for fear of creating a two-tier workforce. So its target of 80pc of the working-age population in employment, already made more difficult by putting off overdue reforms to out-of-work benefits, looks more like a pipe dream. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The great irony is that the measures included in Labours make work pay project risk hurting the very people they are designed to help. The day-one right to take the employer to a tribunal for unfair dismissal tightens employment protection. Yet evidence from across the world suggests that making it more expensive to dismiss workers leads employers to substitute temporary or freelance workers for permanent workers. In Italy, for instance, nearly 15pc of the workforce employed as temps, compared to only around 5pc in Britain and even less in the US. In other words: job security for some increases insecurity for others. Equally troubling is the plan to guarantee hours of work. The aim here is to prevent widely vilified zero-hours contracts. It is alleged that this arrangement shows one-sided flexibility, benefiting the firm more than the employee. This is a debatable claim, as surveys indicate that a large proportion of zero-hours workers do not want to be tied to fixed hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, deciding how many hours should be guaranteed and for whom raises considerable practical problems, leading employment minister Justin Madders to suggest that all part-timers should have such guarantees. Salaried workers, professionals and managers (and lawyers pushing these proposals) would be unaffected because they are not paid by the hour. Tighter regulation of hours could, though, lead employers to alter their recruitment and employment patterns in a way which would exclude some workers unwilling or unable to conform to a standard template. This would mean more inequality in practice, not less. One of the beauties of Britains employment scene is its rich variety of working patterns and working hours. Now the attack on short hours could limit this scope, in the name of equality, certainty and efficiency. Much is made of employer power, but 95pc of UK businesses are small or micro, and do not have any power. They and their workers muddle along, doing their best. They should be left to continue, free from high-handed laws that benefit only the well-organised. Len Shackleton is professor of economics at the University of Buckingham. Stan Siebert is professor of labour economics at the University of Birmingham 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. Firefighters are waging an uphill battle against the Pacific Palisades Fire, now the most destructive blaze in Los Angeles county history. The fire, fueled by dry conditions and ferocious Santa Ana winds, has scorched nearly 26 square miles and obliterated an estimated 1,000 structures, turning blocks of homes and businesses into ashes. Efforts to contain the inferno were hindered as fire hydrants in the area ran dry, forcing crews to depend on tanker trucks and aerial support to fight the flames. The crisis has also spread beyond Pacific Palisades, with several additional fires erupting elsewhere in the Los Angeles area, destroying more homes and triggering more evacuations. In total, at least 130,000 residents have been forced to flee, with entire communities left in ruins. Fire officials warn the situation remains dire, with high winds and dry conditions expected to worsen the disaster in the days ahead. David Ortiz of the Los Angeles Fire Department summed up the dire situation, calling it the worst possible scenario for a firefight. Firefighters are bracing for an arduous battle ahead, as efforts intensify to save lives and what remains of Pacific Palisades. Firefighters Battle A Fifth Fire A fifth fire broke out Wednesday evening around 5:45 p.m. in the hills above Hollywood Boulevard. Those stuck in traffic near the Hollywood Walk of Fame could witness helicopters dropping water on the fire, only about a mile away as sirens blared, the Associated Press reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the evacuation orders for this fire have already lifted, as firefighters made fast progress on the blaze. The fire burned 43 acres. According to Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott, we hit it hard and fast and mother nature was a little nicer to us today than she was yesterday. Eaton Fire Death Count Rises To Five The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office has confirmed five deaths in the Eaton Fire, which according to inciweb.com, remains at more than 16 square miles. More than 900 structures have been burned by this fire. Containment Progress Heres an update on the currently active fires, according to Cal Fire as of early Thursday morning: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palisades Fire - 0% contained Eaton Fire - 0% contained Hurst Fire - 10% contained Lidia Fire - 40% contained Woodley Fire - 100% contained Winds To Weaken, Providing Little Relief From weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman: The good news is the strongest winds in this extreme event are over. But lingering Santa Ana winds are possible both Thursday and Friday. While nowhere near Wednesdays strength and coverage, they could still be disruptive for the fight against existing fires and those that may start. Palisades Fire Grows Out Of Control The Palisades Fire has grown to an estimated 15,832 acres, nearly 25 square miles, with extreme fire behavior making containment efforts difficult, according to Cal Fire. More than 800 personnel, 7 helicopters, and 149 fire engines are battling the blaze as winds gusting up to 60 mph threaten to spread the flames further through Thursday. The Cal Fire Incident Management Team is directing Los Angeles County and City fire crews as they work around the clock to protect critical infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pacific Coast Highway remains closed in multiple areas. The fires cause is still under investigation. Critics Choice Awards, NHL Announce Safety Delays The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled for Sunday at Santa Monicas Barker Hangar, have been postponed to January 26 due to the fires. The NHL also postponed the Los Angeles Kings' Wednesday night home game against the Calgary Flames, set to take place at the Kings downtown L.A. arena. The NFL is keeping a close eye on containment progress as it pertains to Mondays playoff clash between the Minnesota Vikings and L.A. Rams at SoFi Stadium, just 22 miles away from the Palisades Fire. Power Outages Mount As Fires Rage More than 400,000 Californians are in the dark as wildfires and powerful winds continue to knock out power across the state, according to PowerOutage.us. Los Angeles County alone has more than 250,000 customers without electricity, with tens of thousands more affected in neighboring counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power warned residents to brace for delays, stating it could take 24 to 48 hoursor longerto restore service. Meanwhile, an outage map reveals the sprawling impact, leaving many wondering when relief will come. Help Is On The Way In response to the escalating emergency, President Biden has directed the Department of Defense to deploy additional resources. Modular Air Fire Fighting System units from the California and Nevada National Guards are en route, along with ten Navy helicopters equipped with water buckets from San Diego. Local media also reports a firefighter Strike Force from Washington County, Oregon is heading to the front lines of the fires for the next two weeks, including five engines with about 20 firefighters. Eaton Fire Explodes In Size The Eaton Fire has grown to more than 16 square miles, according to an update from CalFire. The fire is still 0% contained and more than 700 firefighters are working against the blaze. Photos Show Little Left Behind In Pacific Palisades Much of the neighborhood of Pacific Palisades has been destroyed, leaving little other than charred remains of homes, vehicles and other structures behind. Photos from the area show the devastation after the flames retreated. According to the New York Times, several businesses have been burned to the ground, as well as blocks of homes. Firefighters continue to battle small fires that continue to crop up in the neighborhood. A person walks with their bike amid the burned out neighborhood of Palisades Park with a burned out car in the background. A burned up motorcycle is seen among the charred remains of the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles, California. A burned out car is seen among other charred wildfire debris in Palisades Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only a street sign remains amid charred debris on a road in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California. National Guard Deployed To Help Containment Efforts Gov. Gavin Newsom has deployed the California National Guard to aid in firefight across Los Angeles County. Newsom called the partnership between the state's National Guard and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection "unlike any other" in a post on X. Palisades Fire Could Be "Costliest" Wildfire In U.S. History Climate scientist Daniel Swain says that the Palisades Fire is expected to be the costliest fire in the country's history. It is already the most destructive fire to ever burn in Los Angeles County according to CalFire data. "It is plausible that the Palisades Fire, in particular, will become the costliest on record period, not just in California, but in general, Swain said, according to CNN. Weve likely checked that box this time. Im hoping we dont check other boxes as well. Swain said that the strong winds and highly flammable landscape that have made the Palisade's Fire so hard to fight are comparable to the conditions that led up to the Camp Fire, the costliest and deadliest wildfire in U.S. history to date. Dozens Of Los Angeles Area Schools Closed At least 23 school districts canceled classes on Wednesday due to the fires, including Los Angeles Unified School District, La Canada Unified School District and Pasadena Unified School District. Los Angeles County Office Of Education has a full list here. Fire Hydrants Temporarily Went Dry In Pacific Palisades Firefighters reported dry fire hydrants and lack of water pressure around 3 a.m. as they battled blazes in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Executive Officer at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Janisse Quinones and another official said that the issues were caused by a lack of water in three holding tanks, resulting in a lack of water pressure. Firefighters have been unable to drop water via aircraft because of the intense winds. This means that rews have been relying on city water systems, taxing them. Officials said more water tanks are being sent to affected areas and other tanks are being refilled. We were not able to fill the tanks fast enough. The consumption of water was faster than we can provide water, Quinones said in a press conference. Residents are urged to conserve water use. Public Library Destroyed Pacific Palisades Public Library was destroyed by flames. The branch opened in 1963. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Los Angeles Public Library spokesperson Lauren Skinner called the building "a total loss." Shelters Open For Animals, Large And Small Agoura Animal Care Center is accepting small animals evacuated from the wildfires. Los Angeles Equestrian Center and Pierce College Equestrian Center have opened their doors for large animals with no where else to go. Previously, Rose Bowl Stadium was reported to be accepting large animals. Two Killed In Eaton Fire Officials confirmed two deaths in the Eaton Fire in a Wednesday press conference. Several other injuries are reported due to the fires throughout Southern California, which have destroyed more than 1,000 structures. The fires have destroyed more than 5,000 acres collectively, which is roughly one-third the size of Manhattan. The fires are still 0% contained. Major Highways And Freeways Closed Large swaths of highways and freeways throughout Southern California are closed as wildfires burn nearby. Caltrans District 7 warned residents to limit non-essential travel and to stay away from fire-threatened areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southbound State Route 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is closed at Cross Creek Road due to the Palisades Fire. A section of northbound State Route 1 section is shut down at McClure Tunnel. The Palisades Fire also forced the shutdown of westbound Interstate 10 near Lincoln Boulevard, as well as both directions of State Route 27 between the Pacific Coast Highway and Mulholland Drive. Both northbound and southbound entrances to eastbound Interstate 5 were shut down as the Hurst Fire burned nearby. Eastbound Interstate 210 at Interstate 5, as well as westbound I-210 near Roxford Street are also closed to traffic. Smoke Advisory Issued Throughout Los Angeles County Much of the Malibu Coast to Santa Monica and stretching east into Pasadena is under a smoke advisory. The advisory is in effect through 5 p.m. Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The western San Gabriel Valley will be most heavily impacted by smoke from the Eaton Fire Wednesday morning, with "unhealthy" air quality levels in Altadena, Pasadena and surrounding areas, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Those spending time outdoors in these areas should wear N95 masks or respirators, authorities advise. Two More Fires Break Out In Southern California The Woodley Fire broke out Wednesday in Sepulveda Basin in Los Angeles County. The fire is 75 acres according to CalFire. According io Incident Command, the fire is threatening to cross Burbank Boulevard. The Tyler Fire has burned about 15 acres in Riverside County. Homes Destroyed Along Pacific Coast Highway Homes along the Pacific Coast Highway were fully engulfed in flames overnight by the Palisades Fire. Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio, located in an unincorporated neighborhood between Malibu and Pacific Palisades, was burned, as well as nearby Wylie's Bait & Tackle. Homes were also ablaze alog Surfwood Road in the unincorporated area of Sunset Mesa, west of Pacific Palisades and east of Malibu. A shopping center in Palisades Village caught fire as well as several homes surrounding it, The Los Angeles Times reported. The entirety of Pacific Palisades is under a mandatory evacuation order. The remnants of a burned home are seen with an elaborate staircase and embers burning with flames still surrounding the rubble. Palisades Fire Expected To Grow Exponentially Wednesday Authorities said that they expect the Palisades Fire's acreage to "rise drastically" on Wednesday morning, Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Jacob Raabe said. The high winds have made fighting the fire difficult, and firefighters are still focusing heavily on evacuation. We are really still in life safety mode, Raabe told CNN. We obviously have a significant amount of injuries and burns from patients trying to escape the fire that left too late. We urge everyone to exit immediately while it is still safe," he added. LA County Sheriff's Office Evacuated The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office located on Altadena Drive in Altadena, was evacuated Wednesday morning as the Eaton Fire raged nearby, CNN reported. Personnel at the station were evacuated to a sister station in Crescenta Valley, according to the department. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory Evacuated NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is included in the evacuation fires due to the Eaton Fire. The JPL is responsible for many of NASA's unmanned exploration missions. Most of the laboratory's campus is located in the city of La Canada Flintridge, which is under a full evacuation order. Caltech, which manages JPL, canceled classes Wednesday and closed its Pasadena campus for most operations as the fire burned nearby. Jewish Temple, High School And Other Landmarks Destroyed The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center was burned by the Eaton Fire, its executive director, Melissa Levy told the New York Times. The extent of the damage is still unknown. Several other structures were engulfed as well, including Palisades Charter High School in Pacific Palisades. According to Nick Melovin, a trustee at the Los Angeles Unified School District, classrooms, campus bungalows, tennis courts and the baseball field were all burned. The school was still closed for winter break, so no evacuations were necessary from the independent charter school campus. Malibu Feed Bin, a local pet supplies store that was in business since 1966, was destroyed by the Palisades Fire. A Malibu restaurant, The Reel Inn, was destroyed by the Palisades Fire as well, with the owners posting on social media, We are so grateful for the 36 years we have been part of the community, the restaurants owners said in the post, adding: We are heartbroken and unsure what will be left. The Eaton Fire consumed an assisted living center and Two Palms Nursing Center, where residents were evacuated earlier. Hurst And Eaton Fires Force More Evacuations A mandatory evacuation was in place for areas of Sylmar as the Hurst Fire erupted Tuesday night. The fire was burning near where Interstate 5 meets the 14 and 210 freeways, according to the Los Angeles Times. The fire has burned 505 square miles, according to CalFire Another fire, the Eaton Fire, has forced evacuations near Altadena and Pasadena, inlcuding Sierra Madre and Arcadia. The Los Angeles Times reported that homes were consumed on Vinedo Avenue in Altadena, where a wind gust of up to 99 mph was recorded by the National Weather Service. Homes were also burning in northern Pasadena, near the Altadena border, and eastern the eastern Pasadena neighborhood of Hastings Ranch. AltaMed Medical Center in Atladena was burning as well. A map shows the location of the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire and the Hurst Fire in Southern California. Nursing Home Evacuated Staff wheeled residents in wheelchairs and hospital beds down the road, weaving through traffic as the Pasadena Park Healthcare & Wellness Center, a nursing home in Pasadena Park, was evacuated due to the Eaton Fire. According to NBC News, embers were flying in the air and at least one patient was having trouble breathing as employees and rescue workers were trying to empty a parking lot of cars so that there was somewhere for the residents to wait. Buses, ambulances and construction vans then transported residents in bedclothes from the parking lot to safety, The AP reported. Abandoned Vehicles, Burning Homes California Gov. Gavin Newsom toured the area Tuesday afternoon and said he saw "not a few many structures already destroyed." By then the fire had burned nearly two square miles and was still growing. People desperate to evacuate left their cars and set out on foot, according to KNBC-TV. A truck sitting in traffic reportedly burst into flames. We looked across and the fire had jumped from one side of the road to the other side of the road, evacuee Kelsey Trainor, told the AP. People were getting out of the cars with their dogs and babies and bags, they were crying and screaming. The road was just blocked, like full-on blocked for an hour. Ash fell around the scene. Earlier, local news reports said multiple homes were on fire, and at least one person posted on social media that they were trapped on the road and unable to evacuate. A woman cries next to a car against a glowing orange background. Video shared from an account listed as belonging to actor James Woods showed what appeared to be at least one structure burning in his neighborhood Tuesday afternoon. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for areas including Merrimac Road, Topanga Canyon Boulevard and neighborhoods near Pacific Coast Highway. At least three schools were also evacuated. The Highest Wind Gusts In Southern California These were among the highest recorded as of early Wednesday: 60 to 71 mph, Santa Anas (Orange Co.) 72 mph, Malibu Hills west of Pacific Palisades/Topanga Canyon 70 to 75 mph, below Cajon Pass (I-15/Inland Empire) 78 mph, Whiteman Airport (Los Angeles) 79 mph, north of Pasadena (La Canada Flintridge/Altadena) 80 mph, Fremont Canyon (Orange County) 83 mph, Burbank Airport 86 mph, San Gabriels (Magic Mountain) 98 mph Saddle Peak (Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area) 99 mph, Mt. Lukens Truck Train (Eastern San Gabriel Mountains) How Long Will The Danger Last? These strong winds will last through Wednesday afternoon or evening," weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman said Tuesday. The most dangerous hours were expected to be overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. Winds during that time could gust up to 100 mph. This is likely to be the strongest Santa Ana this season, so far, and possibly in the last few years," Erdman said. Get the full forecast here. The National Weather Service noted extreme fire conditions and red flag warnings for much of Los Angeles and eastern Ventura counties from Tuesday into Thursday. Red flag warnings, which indicate the potential for dangerous fire weather, are also in place for inland Orange County, the Santa Ana mountains, the Inland Empire and the San Bernardino mountain foothills.Winds this high carry a number of risks, most notably wildfires and structural damage. "This is a Particularly Dangerous Situation - in other words, this is about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather," the National Weather Service in Los Angeles warned in a social media post ahead of the winds. What Are Santa Ana Winds? Santa Ana winds happen in very specific weather conditions. The highest wind speeds are driven both by a strong pressure difference between the Great Basin and coast, as well as strong winds thousands of feet above the ground pushing down to the surface. Southern California's mountains serve as a funnel for these north-to-northeast winds, forcing them to squeeze and accelerate through passes and canyons. Santa Ana winds are named after one of those canyons. Power Outage Updates More than 420,000 customers are without power in southern California Wednesday, FindEnergy.com reported. The majority of the outages were concentrated in Los Angeles County, where more than 265,000 customers reported outages. Ventura, Riverside and San Bernardino counties also reported tens of thousands of customers out of power as well. Southern California Edison, one of the region's largest utility companies, warned customers of potential public safety power shutoffs. That's when electricity is turned off to prevent downed power lines from sparking wildfires. The grid is built to withstand strong winds, Jeff Monford, a spokesperson for the utility, told The Associated Press. The issue here is the possibility of debris becoming airborne and hitting wires ... or a tree coming down. MORE ON WEATHER.COM -Heres How To Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke -What Wildfire Smoke Does To Your Body -Weird Ways Wildfires Are Started Weather.com staff writer Jan Childs covers breaking news and features related to weather, space, climate change, the environment and everything in between. VILLE PLATTE, La. (KLFY) Evangeline Parish School Board member Wanda Skinner was removed from her District 8 seat by a judge in the 13th Judicial District Court. Judge Marcus L. Fontenot ruled that Skinner did not live in the school board district she represented. News 10 has been following the story since the District Attorney Trent Brignac filed a lawsuit against Skinner after voters accused her of not living in the Rozas Street home she listed in her notice of candidacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skinner did not appear in court. She was served the lawsuit Dec. 18 at the school board meeting. However, her attorney said she was not properly served, saying the papers she received did not list the correct trial date. Her attorney requested a continuance, which Fontenot denied. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest The propertys appearance and utilities were presented as evidence. The DAs lead investigator said the property was in disrepair, citing opened doors and broken windows. He said it appeared abandoned. Donald Bergeron, City Clerk and Tax Collector, said the city does not provide water services at the property at which Skinner claimed to live. Bergeron said the last time water was used at the property was in August 2022. The city cut off water at the property in April 2024, and electricity usage was minimal the last three years. Cleco representatives said it was far less than the average home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors also presented Skinners medicine delivery history as evidence. A pharmacy delivery driver said he has never delivered medicine to Skinner at the address where she claimed to reside. Instead, he said he delivered medicine to her at two different addresses in 2022 and 2024; both are in Ville Platte but not in District 8. Officials confirm Ville Platte police chief involved in accidental shooting incident Thelma Toussaint was one who alleged Skinner did not live on Rozas Street. Because I dont know where she lives, Toussaint said. Eula Thomas, who also filed a complaint, said family members needed to speak with Skinner but didnt know where to find her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 10 reached out to Skinner and her family for comment. They said they were unable to talk about the case for now. 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. The millennial-focused digital health company Hims & Hers (HIMS) has donated $1 million to President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration fund. It joins the growing ranks of corporate donors to the fund, including Facebook parent company Meta (META), Amazon (AMZN), OpenAI, Uber (UBER), and Bank of America (BAC). The donations are viewed by some as an attempt to curry favor with the incoming administration. For instance, on Tuesday, outgoing U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan remarked that its only natural for Amazon and Meta to seek favorable terms with the Trump administration regarding antitrust cases initiated by the previous administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hims & Hers donation was first reported by Axios. At Hims & Hers, we stand with leaders and advocates who are committed to improving Americas broken healthcare system, the company told Quartz in an emailed statement confirming the donation. For far too long, this system has forced Americans to struggle financially and with limited access to get essential medications and the care they need, especially for stigmatized conditions. Hims & Hers was founded in 2017, known as just Hims at the time, as a platform for men to get prescriptions online for erectile dysfunction and hair loss medications. Since then, it has expanded to offer treatments for men and women to address skin care, anxiety, and overall sexual health. Its stock has surged over 200% in the last 12 months after the company started offering more affordable and off-brand versions of popular weight-loss drugs last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May Hims & Hers started offering its customers a compounded version of semaglutide, the active ingredient in the diabetes and weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which are produced by Novo Nordisk (NVO). Compounding is the process of customizing an approved drug by a state-licensed pharmacist or physician to meet the specific needs of an individual patient. Typically, the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibits compounding drugs that are just copies of commercially available medications. However, drugs that are in shortage, which semaglutide currently is, are not considered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be commercially available. The future of the compounded weight-loss drug market under the Trump administration remains uncertain. Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which oversees the FDA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy has repeatedly been critical of pharmaceutical solutions to obesity. However, his views contrast those of another Trump supporter Elon Musk. Musk, the richest person alive and the co-head of President-elect Donald Trumps new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been supportive of expanding access to affordable GLP-1 weight-loss medications like Ozempic. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. CHICAGO After an extended 18-day holiday break in testimony, attorneys for ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan on Monday unveiled a new prong of their defense: that the speaker had long-established protocols to prevent conflicts of interest between his government work and his private law practice. The defense also called witnesses intended to rebut other elements of the prosecutions case, including that Madigans aides helped carry ComEd legislation across the finish line in 2016 and that the speaker had told a longtime precinct captain in 2018 to keep working on political campaigns even though he was being paid as a subcontractor by the utility. It amounted to a disjointed day of testimony in the trial, which began Oct. 8 and is inching toward a conclusion, with closing arguments possible as soon as next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the jury was sent home for the holidays Dec. 19, the cases 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 painted by prosecutors of a conniving and opportunistic political machine boss. On Monday morning, Madigans attorneys told U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey that they intended to disprove 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. Madigan attorney Daniel Collins called it a false narrative, saying the defense hopes to introduce proof of the law firms long-established protocols to prevent conflicts of interest. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors objected strenuously to the inclusion of the evidence, but ultimately Blakey allowed it in. There is 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. Defense attorneys said they intend to call Madigans former law partner, Vincent Bud Getzendanner, to the stand Tuesday to testify about the firms safeguards against conflicts of interest. But the subject also was 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Cox also was asked about a wiretapped phone call from May 2018 in which Michael McClain, Madigans longtime confidant and co-defendant, told Cox to make sure Madigan voted present on the Chinatown land transfer bill. Cox said he remembered that 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 because it related to one of the developers that it wasnt clear if it was a client or somebody who was looking for business, Cox said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madigan, 82, a Southwest Side Democrat, and McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment alleging that 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 high-rise. Both Madigan and McClain have denied wrongdoing. Later Monday, the defense called longtime 13th Ward precinct captain Steven Hensley to the stand to rebut testimony from another ward insider, Edward Moody, a legendary precinct captain who testified for prosecutors in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors allege Moody was rewarded for his political work with a series of cushy subcontracts, through which ComEd paid him thousands of dollars to do little or no work. ComEd allegedly paid Moody and other do-nothing contractors as a way to curry favor with Madigan. Moody testified that at one point in March 2018 he was canvassing for a county commissioner candidate near Madigans Southwest Side home and bumped into the speaker. Moody said he was across the street as Madigan pulled up in his car, and that he told the speaker he was concerned that he hadnt heard about getting any actual work assignments from ComEd. In response, Madigan told him what youre doing right now is what I want, according to Moodys testimony. In an effort to cast doubt on that story, Madigans defense attorneys presented jurors a series of photos of the area around Madigans home at 64th Street and Keeler Avenue, implying that the driveways do not face the part of the street where Moody would have been working. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hensley also testified it was unlikely someone would have been assigned to that precinct without his knowing about it. But on cross-examination, prosecutors noted that the houses across the street from Madigans home were indeed within the boundaries of the district where Moodys county commissioner candidate was running. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amarjeet Bhachu also took Hensley through the considerable list of personal and financial benefits hed received from Madigan over the years, including a series of public-sector jobs at Moraine Valley Community College, the CTA and the Cook County sheriffs office. Bhachu also noted that Hensley has in the past donated generously to the 13th Ward organization and to Madigans daughter Lisa, the former state attorney general, and that Hensleys son received a $32,000 scholarship for a highly competitive spot at the University of Illinois all issues the Tribune reported in a 2010 investigative story about Madigans clout. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tribune reported at the time that Madigan and other state officials came under fire for helping multiple U of I applicants get preferential treatment through a secret admissions clout list. On questioning about the college admissions matter, Hensley grew quiet and appeared to be cagey. He had declined in 2010 to speak to a Tribune reporter who reached him at work, and a woman who answered the phone then at Hensleys listed address threatened to call police if a reporter called again. But on Monday, he said he didnt know whether Madigan helped his son get the five-figure scholarship and said he never talked to reporters about the matter and didnt remember if anyone at his home threatened to call the police on a reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bhachu also asked Hensley about a $1,000 campaign donation he made in 2009 to then-Cook County Democratic boss Joseph Berrios, a longtime Madigan ally. Hensley said he didnt remember the donation and testified Monday that he wasnt sure who Berrios was, just that he was an elected official of some kind. Later in the day, Madigans team called Craig Willert, once Madigans political point man on the House government staff, who testified at length about his involvement with passage of the 2016 Future Energy Jobs Act legislation at the heart of the indictment. Willert testified that unlike previous testimony by prosecution witnesses, there were no marching orders from Madigan to get the controversial legislation passed. In fact, he said, much of his work involved deciding which House Democrats should vote no on the bill because they were in contested target districts where a controversial yes vote could undermine their reelection. Willert said he was also instructed to substitute certain Democrats out of committees so another representative from a non-competitive district could help Democratic lawmakers move the bill to the House floor a common legislative practice in Springfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like other defense witnesses, Willert has also offered a competing narrative about Madigan as a leader. Asked by Collins what he thought about Madigans work ethic, Willert said, It was second to none. It was well known in Springfield that he read every bill, Willert said. He was thorough. He looked at all of them. Did you have respect for him? Collins asked. The utmost, Willert said. _____ CHICAGO In a stunning and risky move, ex-House Speaker Michael Madigan is planning to take the stand in his own public corruption trial, his lawyers said in court Tuesday. After a morning break, Madigans lead attorney, Dan Collins, told the judge that Madigan would be the next witness. But there is one sticking point: whether Madigan would have to waive his right to not testify in a forfeiture hearing, should he be convicted. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey told the parties to review the case law and return to the courtroom at noon for further discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision by a defendant to testify on his own behalf is an unusual strategy in any case, let alone a high-profile federal corruption trial. But Madigan, the so-called Velvet Hammer, is known for his quick mind and his mastery of delicate political situations and apparently calculated that the risk of cross-examination was a manageable one. As Madigan left the courtroom for an early lunch break, he and his daughter, former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, walked together down the hallway, quietly leaning toward each other in conversation. The former speaker and his daughter, along with several other supporters, then gathered around a big table in the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse cafeteria, killing time before what could be the most consequential testimony of the trial. Madigan, who reigned over Illinois politics for decades, is charged with a yearslong scheme to use his public clout for his own private benefit and run his political operation like a criminal enterprise. He could face significant prison time if convicted, even at his advanced age, and any time behind bars could be augmented if the judge were to find he lied on the witness stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His testimony would be the most significant of its kind in Chicagos federal court since former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich unsuccessfully tried to convince a jury of his innocence more than a decade ago. But it may be a bigger surprise, given that Blagojevich is known for talking to anyone who will listen to him about his own legal travails while Madigan is known for saying little at all. Madigan is also battle tested under pressure. For half a century, he fielded hard-edged questions from reporters and withstood decades of scrutiny. Madigans co-defendant and longtime confidant Michael McClain chose not to testify in the current case. So did ex-Ald. Ed Burke at his trial. Burke was convicted of racketeering in late 2022 and is currently serving a two-year prison sentence. Madigans decision to testify comes nearly two years after two defendants in the Madigan-related ComEd Four trial ex-ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore and lobbyist John Hooker took the witness stand on their own behalf in that trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gamble did not pay off for Pramaggiore or Hooker, who were both convicted of every count against them. Also convicted at that trial were McClain and consultant and former City Club of Chicago President Jay Doherty, who opted not to testify. A judge is currently weighing a request to throw out the convictions based on a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year. Madigan, 82, a Southwest Side Democrat, and McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment alleging that 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 high-rise. Both Madigan and McClain have denied wrongdoing. The trial, which began Oct. 8 is inching toward a conclusion, with closing arguments possible as soon as next week. ____ CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) Several weeks into a federal corruption trial, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has taken the stand to testify in his own defense. Facing a 23-count indictment for bribery, racketeering, and wire fraud, Madigan is accused of using his power and influence to benefit himself and his allies. Among his alleged crimes: Madigan is accused of using his influence to pass legislation that benefitted companies like ComEd, who gave kickbacks, jobs, and contracts to Madigan loyalists in return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a case about corruption at the highest levels of state government, assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker told jurors. Madigan abused his power and used the organizations he led to engage in a pattern of corrupt conduct over and over and over again. The 82-year-old Madigan has kept a low profile since his 2022 indictment and has denied any wrongdoing. First elected to the Legislature in 1970, Madigan was speaker of the state House from 1983 to 2021, except for two years when Republicans were in control. He set much of Illinois political agenda by deciding which legislation would be voted on and by controlling several campaign funds. He also oversaw political mapmaking. Standing trial alongside Madigan is longtime confidant and co-defendant Michael McClain, who prosecutors called Madigans mouthpiece. The onetime state legislator and former lobbyist has already been found guilty in a separate, related case. Last year, federal jurors convicted McClain and three others of a bribery conspiracy involving ComEd, the states largest utility company. 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 MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Former Otero County Commissioner Couy Griffin speaking with protesters outside President-elect Donald Trumps campaign rally in New Mexico on Oct. 30, 2024. Griffin appeared with others on the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection urging Trump to pardon those charged or convicted in the riot. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source New Mexico) Two of New Mexicos most prominent election deniers used Monday the fourth anniversary of the deadly Jan. 6 insurrection to urge incoming Donald Trump to keep his promise to pardon many charged and convicted in the riot, even as Congress certified his win. What had been a relatively mundane process until Jan. 6, 2021, returned to form as senators and representatives counted the Electoral College votes that make Trumps second term official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But even so, former Otero County Commissioner Couy Griffin the first elected official barred from holding public office because of his actions with the violent mob joined a panel of speakers blocks away from the Capitol to look back, peddling far-right conspiracy talking points in an effort to rewrite history. This day isnt about me, this day is about those that are still being held in prison, Griffin said in opening remarks. We stand on the ground that we want a pardon for all, because it was a day of entrapment, and I believe thats been proven. Nearly 1,600 people have been charged or face federal charges in connection with the attack, fueled by denial of President Joe Bidens 2020 election win, resulting in dozens of injuries and at least five deaths. Trump said in December he would act very quickly to pardon many defendants on his first day in office. He said he might make exceptions if somebody was radical, crazy. No way pardon would allow Griffin to hold New Mexico office, lawyer says But even a presidential pardon may not overturn a ban on Griffin, who was convicted of trespassing on Capitol grounds, of running for future office in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ban came as a result of a civil lawsuit filed by the watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, and local law firms on behalf of New Mexico residents. They argued that Griffin participated in, encouraged, and promoted the attack, which disqualified him from holding office under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits engaging in an insurrection. The U.S. Supreme Court later refused to hear Griffins appeal. Chris Dodd, an attorney who brought the civil case against Griffin, said a pardon would not reestablish his ability to hold public office in New Mexico, saying that the courts judgement is final. An executive pardon has no power to change the outcome of a civil case, and since the case was brought under New Mexico state law, a federal pardon would have no authority. Theres just no way a pardon would have any impact on the civil case that we brought against Couy Griffin, Dodd said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar legal arguments last year convinced the Colorado Supreme Court that Trump himself was ineligible for public office, but the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated Trump on the ballot. Donald Sherman, the executive director and chief counsel for CREW, said Trumps promise to pardon the rioters is exactly why the Constitution bars oath-breaking insurrectionists from holding office. The Supreme Court should have kept him off the Colorado presidential ballot as the Colorado Supreme Court did, Sherman said. Former New Mexico State University law professor, David Clements, also appeared with Griffin. He also called for pardons, even for violent offenders. New Mexico delegation speaks up after certifying Trumps 2024 win After voting to certify the 2024 results, New Mexicos all-Democrat congressional delegation described the day as a solemn duty rather than a celebration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Melanie Stansbury told reporters that over the last several weeks, Trump and his allies have tried to reframe January 6th. Despite their best efforts, history will remember it for what it was: a direct attack on the Capitol in an effort to overthrow a free and fair election, she said. Its important that the individuals who participated in those crimes are held accountable under the law. She said Trumps messaging around his intent to pardon the insurrectionists is damaging to American democracy, institutions, and the rule of law. Sen. Martin Heinrich said the anniversary of the attack was a sobering reminder that we must not take democracy for granted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our democracy was pushed to the brink by rioters who violently forced their way into the U.S. Capitol to try and stop the certification of a free and fair election he said. It requires our constant participation, bravery, and a dogged commitment to principles over politics. Sen. Ben Ray Lujan said he fulfilled his constitutional duty to certify the election results, but that it was also a solemn day in our nations history. Four years ago, a violent assault took place on the Capitol and our brave law enforcement officers in an attempt to disrupt the peaceful transition of power. But our democracy and our resolve did not break, Lujan said. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez said Monday should have been a day of celebration but instead stood as a stark contrast to four years earlier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We must never forget the assault on our democratic institutions or the bravery of those who defended them, Leger Fernandez said. Let this day serve as a solemn reminder of the fragility of our democracy and our unwavering commitment to protect it. A spokesperson for Rep. Gabe Vasquez did not respond to a request for comment. Note: This story has been updated to correct an editors error. David Clements has not served time in jail for the Jan. 6 riot Sen. Bob Menendez takes a selfie with his wife, Nadine, and businessman Wael Hana. The three are co-defendants in an 18-count federal corruption indictment. (Courtesy of U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of New York) Bob Menendezs wife has asked for another delay in her upcoming bribery trial, complaining that media coverage of the convicted ex-senators sentencing later this month will taint the jury pool. With just a week between his Jan. 29 sentencing and Nadine Menendezs Feb. 5 trial, finding impartial jurors will be unlikely, attorney Barry Coburn said in a Tuesday letter to federal Judge Sidney H. Stein. He asked the judge to postpone the trial for two to three months until the sentencing-related headlines die down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inevitably intense publicity accompanying the sentencing of a former United States Senator would be so widely disseminated, and so inflammatory to prospective jurors, so that selecting a jury for the trial of his wife and alleged co-conspirator that would not be influenced by it likely would not be possible, Coburn wrote. He submitted a supporting letter from Jo-Ellan Dimitrius, an Arizona-based jury consultant, who said press coverage of the sentencing would create a salient and recent impression in the minds of potential jurors. If Stein doesnt delay the trial, he should consider a change of venue, allow in-depth questioning of potential jurors to determine their preconceived notions, or give jurors clear instructions about basing their decisions solely on trial evidence, Dimitrius wrote. Menendez and co-defendants Wael Hana and Fred Daibes also had fought to move their trial from Manhattan, where they were first indicted by the federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York. But Stein denied that request last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coburn also cited concerns about Nadine Menendezs medical condition, but that letter was filed under seal. Stein last spring ordered she be tried separately and later to accommodate her treatment for breast cancer. The couple was first charged in an 18-count, international corruption scheme in September 2023. Jurors convicted Bob Menendez, Hana, and Daibes of all counts in July after hearing nine weeks of testimony about how Hana, Daibes, and co-defendant Jose Uribe bribed the Menendezes with gold bars, cash, a luxury car, and other riches in exchange for Bob Menendez using his political power to help their businesses and the governments of Egypt and Qatar, as well as halt various ongoing criminal cases. Uribe pleaded guilty in a cooperation deal and testified against his co-defendants. Stein has not yet ruled on defense attorneys pleas for a retrial stemming from several evidence errors prosecutors first revealed in November. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX For decades, Michael Madigan reigned over the Capitol in relative secrecy. Where many Illinois politicians tended toward braggadocio, the longtime Democratic House speaker was notoriously taciturn. He rarely let his guard down in public, spoke to journalists in cryptic sentences, and left his motivations opaque to everyone but a tiny circle of insiders. Madigan derived significant power from that mystique, often remaining so silent behind closed doors that he earned a nickname: The Sphinx. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at Madigans federal corruption trial Tuesday, the Sphinx started talking. In a stunning and risky move, Madigan, once the states most powerful politician, took the witness stand in his own defense, offering wide-ranging testimony about his strict Irish Catholic upbringing and rise to power in Springfield as well as repeated and emphatic denials that he ever betrayed his elected position. Did you ever trade your public office for private gain? Madigans lawyer, Dan Collins, asked just minutes into his testimony. Madigan turned his face toward the jury box and answered, No. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did you ever demand a thing of value in exchange for a promise to take official action? Collins asked. Did you ever accept a thing of value in exchange for a promise to take official action? To both, Madigan answered no. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakeys courtroom was at capacity when Madigan, dressed in a gray suit and blue and red tie, was called to the witness stand, snapping the jury to attention. With a crew of Madigan supporters, including his daughter Lisa, the former state attorney general, looking on from the front row, Madigan was sworn in and took his seat, unscrewing the top of a bottle of water before answering questions in a loud voice tinged with an unmistakable South Side accent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For much of his roughly 3 hours on the stand, Madigan was relaxed and conversational, looking directly at the jury as he spoke and using his hands often to emphasize points. He drew chuckles when he cracked an early joke about his alma mater Notre Dame, and later burst into laughter himself when asked about his relationship with former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. It was, uh it was a memorable experience, Madigan said about Blagojevich, who once sat in the very position Madigan was in Tuesday. It was very, very difficult. In taking the witness stand, Madigan, who reigned over Illinois politics for decades, is getting the opportunity to refute in his own words the bombshell allegations that have hovered over him for nearly five years. But the move is a double-edged sword, exposing him to what undoubtedly will be a lengthy cross-examination, particularly considering the dozens of wiretapped audio and video recordings that captured Madigan talking in real time about alleged schemes to enrich his friends and maintain his ironclad grip on power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 82-year-old former speaker could face significant prison time if convicted, even at his advanced age, and any time behind bars could be augmented if the judge were to find he lied on the witness stand. His testimony is the most significant of its kind in Chicagos federal court since Blagojevich unsuccessfully tried to convince a jury of his innocence more than a decade ago. But it may be a bigger surprise, given that Blagojevich is known for talking to anyone who will listen to him about his own legal travails while Madigan is known for saying little at all. Madigans co-defendant and longtime confidant Michael McClain chose not to testify in the current case. So did ex-Ald. Edward Burke at his trial. Burke was convicted of racketeering in late 2023 and is currently serving a two-year prison sentence. Madigans decision to testify comes nearly two years after two defendants in the Madigan-related ComEd Four trial ex-ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore and lobbyist John Hooker took the witness stand on their own behalf in that trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gamble did not pay off for Pramaggiore or Hooker, who were both convicted of every count against them. Also convicted at that trial were McClain and consultant and former City Club of Chicago President Jay Doherty, who opted not to testify. A judge is currently weighing a request to throw out the convictions based on a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year. Madigan, a Southwest Side Democrat, and McClain, 77, of downstate Quincy, are charged in a 23-count indictment alleging that 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 high-rise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Madigan and McClain have denied wrongdoing. The trial, which began Oct. 8 and was originally slated to end before Christmas, is inching toward a conclusion, with Madigans surprise testimony surely adding to estimates of when it might end. Just before Madigan took the stand at about 12:45 p.m., a juror sent a note asking if there was an update on the trials length. Blakey later told the panel they could expect to be deliberating by the week of Jan. 27, although by the days end even that seemed likely to become inaccurate. The judge recessed trial for the day with Madigan still on direct examination. He will resume his testimony Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the jurys only direct impression of Madigan coming from FBI wiretaps, Collins clearly set out to show a softer side, beginning his examination by taking Madigan through a detailed and sometimes intimate look at his early life on Chicagos Southwest Side. Madigan testified about his schooling and how he wound up at St. Ignatius College Prep, saying for some reason I had the same nun in seventh and eighth grade she advocated very strongly I go to St. Ignatius. He described himself as hard-working and disciplined, telling the jury he got his first job as a young teenager in a Park District nursery at Marquette Park. He said his parents were very strict. As it was in those years they got out the whips and I went to work. Madigan said his father a Streets and Sanitation supervisor in the 13th Ward was particularly tough. Madigan said his father dominated the house. He made all the decisions and issued all of the orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My father had been an alcoholic who had quit drinking but he carried with him an anger problem, a short fuse, he said. If someone happened to be in the line of fire it was not a pleasant experience. One night, Madigan came home drunk and his father greeted me at the door and I got a good solid slap on the side of my face, he said. Later, Madigan went over to his fathers ward office to apologize. It was a very somber meeting. He was very concerned that I might have the same problem that he did. Madigan said his father made him promise: Never drink on an empty stomach and never drink before sundown something he still takes to heart today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Was your household nurturing? Collins asked at one point. No, no, no, Madigan said. In that house the word nurturing didnt exist. My parents never told me that they loved me. We never embraced, never hugged. After his job in Marquette Park, Madigan said his father got him a job on what was called the dirt truck, hauling bulk items such as mattresses and furniture to the dump so the street sweepers could do their work. Later, he asked to be reassigned to a garbage truck something his father opposed. He didnt like the idea that his son would be loading garbage, Madigan said. He thought with his role with the local Democrats and such, you ought to be able to get an easier job. His father eventually agreed, but only if Madigans truck was on a route outside their neighborhood to avoid embarrassing the family, he said. One day, Madigan said, there was hell to pay when his father found out his truck had been reassigned to a nearby street. But the hard work paid off. Madigan went on to graduate from Notre Dame and law school, and served as a delegate to the Illinois Constitutional Convention before first running for the state legislature in 1970 winning a seat he would hold for the next 50 years. Collins questioning soon turned to the centerpiece allegations involving ComEd. During the prosecutions case, jurors saw floods of emails, undercover videos and wiretapped phone calls in which McClain and ComEd executives discuss hiring Madigan associates, including precinct captains Edward Moody and Ray Nice, former 13th Ward Ald. Frank Olivo, former 23rd Ward Ald. Michael Zalewski, and ex-state Rep. Edward Acevedo. Former ComEd executive Fidel Marquez testified earlier in the trial that the hiring was done so that Madigan would look favorably upon ComEds legislation. But Madigan testified there had been no such deal. He said he merely agreed to help friends find work and passed their information along to McClain, and expressed anger that some of them, including Olivo and Nice, had apparently not lifted a finger. Frank knew I worked all the time and I expected people associated with me to work all the time, Madigan said of Olivo. He should have worked. He should have done his job. As for Nice: My reaction, again, is anger, Madigan said. I knew Nice, he knew me, he knew my work ethic and what I expected from people associated with me, and he should have worked just like everybody else is supposed to work, Madigan said. Madigan also contradicted an account Moody gave jurors about a chance encounter with Madigan outside the speakers home in 2018, where Moody was canvassing for votes. Moody claimed the speaker appeared to endorse Moodys lack of work for ComEd despite the lucrative payments, telling him what youre doing right now is what I want, according to Moodys testimony. That simply never happened, Madigan said Tuesday. Do you recall ever bumping into Ed Moody when he was out for a stroll? Collins asked No, Madigan said. Acevedo allegedly got a similar no-work deal from AT&T as part of the telecom giants scheme to win Madigans support. But on Tuesday, Madigan said he didnt even know Acevedo was being paid by AT&T until this case was brought. Madigan said that Acevedo, who testified for the prosecution under a grant of immunity, was for the most part a good, functioning member of the House. Eddie had a drinking problem and hed get out of hand with alcohol. When he was sober he did just fine. Didnt do so well when he was drinking, Madigan said. Madigan also said Acevedo, who suffers from dementia and other health issues, had greatly deteriorated in recent years. Hes a far different person than he was back in 2017, he said. Madigan testified that his relationship with ComEd was, at one point, on shaky ground. He had developed a deep distrust of the company after they acted deceitfully toward legislators in the 1990s and early 2000s, he testified. He still was willing to call ComEds favored bills to the floor, he said, but insisted that the speakers office lawyers examine them with great caution. I told our chief counsel to not trust ComEd, to be suspicious and to work to draft legislation that would guarantee theyd do what they said they were going to do, Madigan said. When ComEd was pushing its Smart Grid legislation in 2011, which stood to save the company hundreds of millions of dollars, Madigan said he was open to it but did not personally get involved in the negotiations. He had talks with Pramaggiore about the concepts behind the bill, and also may have talked to Hooker, but never talked with him about jobs or hiring, Madigan said. Madigan testified similarly about other ComEd-friendly bills at issue in the case: He did not involve himself personally in the negotiations with the utility, and followed the recommendations of his top staffers in how to handle bills, he said. The former speaker denied ever giving the green light to kill a Lisa Madigan-backed bill that would have given aid to low-income ComEd customers an alleged plan that McClain had detailed to others on FBI wiretaps. No, did not happen, Madigan testified. Madigan also testified he had no recollection of instructing then-staffer Will Cousineau in 2016 to go get more votes for ComEds favored Future Energy Jobs Act. Cousineau testified earlier in the trial that Madigan urged him to go out and work the bill and try to get that bill passed. But Madigan said Tuesday that around the time of the vote on FEJA, Madigan was so busy tussling with then-Gov. Bruce Rauner over the ongoing budget stalemate that he had little time for anything else. Earlier in his testimony, Madigan had walked through his historic fight with Rauner, the Republican whose turnaround agenda was at odds with Madigans pro-labor, blue-collar stances. Madigan smiled briefly but quickly showed his distaste for Rauner, saying the GOP governors election made it a tough job. The relationship between Rauner and I was toxic, Madigan said. But he noted he received broad support from labor leaders throughout the state. The Republican governor repeatedly tried to leverage his conservative platform into a state budget standoff, ending with a highly unusual two-year stalemate and sending the states finances deeply into debt. Madigan did not say that he eventually was able to break the budget deadlock by rounding up enough Democrats and Republicans to vote for an income tax hike that has now put Illinois operating budget in far better shape. Madigan also cited tension he had with Blagojevich because the governor feared the speakers daughter, Lisa, would seek to move up the political ladder from attorney general and run against the governor. With Lisa sitting in the front row, Madigan touched on how Blagojevich sought to dirty up the father and daughter politically in hopes of tamping down her viability as a future opponent. He also recounted how Blagojevich called on McPier chief Juan Ochoa to fire an employee who had previously worked as a member of Madigans House staff, causing ill will when Ochoa followed through. The reference to Ochoa was significant because Madigan eventually supported him for a post on the ComEd board of directors, a favor the ex-speaker said he did for U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez. The speaker said Ochoa was qualified for the post and that they decided to let bygones be bygones after a dinner with the congressman and Ochoa. Did you consider it a demand on ComEd to put Ochoa on the ComEd board? Collins asked. Madigan replied, No. Collins also tried to have Madigan explain why he was caught on so many wiretaps talking with McClain about the status of Ochoas appointment, which took more than a year to finalize. Madigan testified he simply didnt want to be in a social setting with Gutierrez and not know what was happening. I had made the recommendation and I was desirous to know the status, he said. CHICAGO Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan took the stand Tuesday in his own public corruption trial. According to the Chicago Tribune, the ex-speakers lead attorney, Dan Collins, told the judge after a morning break that Madigan would be the next witness called. Madigans federal corruption trial resumed Monday after jurors returned from their holiday break. Madigan is accused of using his position as Illinois House Speaker to enrich himself and his friends. His defense attorneys argue he was just a good public servant, looking out for the people of Illinois. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 82-year-old Madigan and his longtime political advisor, 77-year-old McClain of downstate Quincy, are both charged in a 23-count criminal bribery and corruption indictment. Both men have continuously denied any wrongdoing. Madigan federal corruption trial resumes after 18-day holiday break McClain formally declined to testify before the two-week break. The trial is on schedule to wrap-up next week. This is a developing story. Check back for details. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Timour Azhari and Andrew Mills DAMASCUS/DOHA (Reuters) - Qatar is planning to help finance a massive boost in public sector wages promised by Syria's new government, a U.S. official and a senior diplomat said, vital assistance to the new Islamist rulers in Damascus a month after they toppled Bashar al-Assad. The support for the new Syrian administration has been made possible by a U.S. sanctions exemption issued by Washington on Monday, allowing for transactions with governing institutions in Syria for six months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Arab official said talks on Qatar funding Syrian government salaries were under way and nothing had been finalised, adding that other countries including Saudi Arabia may join in the effort. A Saudi official told Reuters on Tuesday that the kingdom was committed to working with regional and international partners to help support Syria and that its current support is "focused on humanitarian aid including food, shelter, and medical supplies." Qatar, a longtime backer of the Syrian armed uprising against Assad, had been lobbying Washington heavily to issue the sanctions exemption so it could provide funding in an official manner, the U.S. official and the diplomat said. Syrian rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham took power from Assad on Dec. 8 in a lightning offensive and have since installed an interim government that has promised a 400% salary increase for public sector workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The total monthly price tag for salaries including the increase is around $120 million, with more than 1.25 million workers on the public-sector payroll, the new finance minister has said. A Syrian finance ministry source said they had no confirmation on foreign funding of salaries but there had been general pledges of support. The Qatari foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. HTS was designated a terrorist entity by Washington several years ago but has long-since broken ties with Islamist militant group Al Qaeda and has in recent years signalled a more moderate approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rebels-turned-rulers have promised to embark on an inclusive political process in Syria bringing together all its ethnic and religious components and have made efforts to reach out to other Gulf Arab states wary of their history. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani visited Riyadh on his first official trip abroad last week, and has since made stops in the UAE, Qatar and Jordan. Arab States, European powers and the U.S. have engaged with the new Syrian rulers as part of an effort to give them a chance to stabilize the country and embark on an inclusive political process, diplomats said. Qatar, a tiny but wealthy Gulf state that plays an outsized role in international diplomacy, has moved swiftly over the last month to establish links with the new Syrian government, sending senior officials to Damascus and re-opening its embassy. On Tuesday, Qatar Airways resumed regular flights between Doha and Damascus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doha severed official relations with the Assad government in 2011 and it rejected efforts by several Arab countries to mend relations with Damascus in recent years. The White House National Security Council did not immediately respond to questions on whether the U.S. had been informed of the talks about Qatari support and if such an arrangement would meet the requirements of the six-month U.S. sanctions exemption announced on Monday. (Reporting by Timour Azhari in Damascus and Andrew Mills in Doha; additional reporting by Maha El Dahan in Dubai and Pesha Magid in Riyadh, Editing by William Maclean) By Alexander Cornwell DUBAI (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates has discussed with Israel and the United States participating in a provisional administration of post-war Gaza until a reformed Palestinian Authority is able to take charge, according to people familiar with the talks. The behind-the-scenes discussions, reported by Reuters for the first time, included the possibility of the UAE and the United States, along with other nations, temporarily overseeing the governance, security and reconstruction of Gaza after the Israeli military withdraws and until a Palestinian administration is able to take over, a dozen foreign diplomats and Western officials told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UAE is a close security partner of the U.S. and, unlike most Arab governments, has diplomatic ties with Israel. The diplomats and officials said this provides the Gulf state with some leverage over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. After more than a year of war, Israel remains reluctant to outline its own vision for Gaza and the international community has struggled to formulate a viable plan, said the sources, who asked not to be identified because the conversations were private. The diplomats and officials stressed the ideas that had emerged from the UAE talks lacked detail and had not been distilled into a formal, written plan nor adopted by any government. In the behind-the-scenes talks, Abu Dhabi is advocating for a reformed Palestinian Authority (PA) to govern Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem under an independent Palestinian state, the sources said - something that Israel has publicly opposed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The UAE will not participate in any plan that fails to include significant reform of the Palestinian Authority, its empowerment, and the establishment of a credible roadmap toward a Palestinian state," a UAE official told Reuters, in response to questions about the discussions. "These elements - which are currently lacking - are essential for the success of any post-Gaza plan." The PA was established three decades ago under the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords, signed by Israel and Palestinians, and given limited authority over the West Bank and Gaza. It still exercises some governance in the Israeli-occupied West Bank but was run out of Gaza in 2007 by Hamas after a brief civil war. A U.S. State Department spokesperson told Reuters there had been talks with several partners, including the UAE, on options for governance, security and reconstruction, and that various draft proposals, plans and ideas had been put forward by partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These have been deliberative discussions that continue, as we seek the best way forward," the spokesperson said, declining to comment further on "private diplomatic conversations". The Israeli prime minister's office declined comment for this story. The Palestinian Authority did not respond to Reuters' questions. In addition to reforming the PA, four of the diplomats and Western officials said that Emirati officials had suggested the use of private military contractors as part of a post-war peacekeeping force in Gaza. The other sources confirmed they were briefed on what they described as Emirati post-war proposals, which included the possible use of such forces. The diplomats and Western officials said any deployment of such contractors would spark concerns among Western nations. Private military contractors, hired by the United States and other governments, have faced accusations of torture, human rights abuses, and use of excessive force, among other allegations, including in Iraq and Afghanistan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UAE official did not respond to questions about the use of military contractors. RECONSTRUCTION WILL TAKE YEARS Rebuilding Gaza, including its political institutions, is expected to take years and cost tens of billions of dollars, requiring substantial international support, following 15 months of Israel's devastating military campaign. While the UAE has criticised the conduct of Israel's military and Netanyahu himself, Israel still wants the oil-rich nation involved in post-war Gaza, according to two former Israeli officials, who declined to be identified. Like Israel, the Gulf state opposes Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group that led the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abu Dhabi views Hamas and other Islamist groups as destabilizing forces. UAE officials have also expressed concern publicly over the war's impact on stability in the Middle East and on efforts towards greater regional integration and economic development. Asked whether Hamas was aware of proposals discussed by the UAE, Basem Naim, one of the organization's senior officials, told Reuters that after the war, Gaza must be "distinctly Palestinian" and without "foreign interventions". Washington is pushing, alongside mediators Egypt and Qatar, for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Israel and Hamas traded blame in late December for delays in reaching a ceasefire which both sides had said appeared to be close last month. On Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington wanted to see a ceasefire deal concluded in the next two weeks. When asked about the future of Gaza, Brian Hughes, a spokesman for Donald Trump's transition team, said the U.S. president-elect - who is due to take office on Jan. 20 - would work in close coordination with Arab and Israeli partners "to ensure that Gaza can one day prosper". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REFORM OF PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY The Gulf state has said it would only send troops to a post-war multinational mission at the invitation of the Palestinian Authority and with the involvement of the U.S. Netanyahu, however, has said he is against the Palestinian Authority in its current form governing Gaza, citing his long-standing grievances over the PA's school syllabus, which he says fuels hatred of Israel, and its policy of giving salaries to families of Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. The UAE has called for a new prime minister to lead the Palestinian Authority, which Emirati officials frequently criticized as corrupt and inept during the closed-door talks, the diplomats and officials said, without providing specifics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, who took office in March, has pledged to implement reforms within the Palestinian Authority whose finances have been in disarray for years as donor states have cut back funding until corruption and waste are tackled. Emirati officials have mentioned former prime minister Salam Fayyad, a U.S.-educated former World Bank official, as the type of person who would be credible to lead a revamped Palestinian Authority, according to the diplomats and officials. Fayyad served as prime minister from 2007 until resigning in 2013 after falling out with President Mahmoud Abbas, who remains in office. Reuters was unable to reach Fayyad for comment. (Reporting by Alexander Cornwell, additional reporting by Nidal Al Mughrabi in Cairo, Ali Sawafta in Ramallah & James Mackenzie in Jerusalem; Editing by Daniel Flynn) A confessed killer is set to be executed March 20 for fatally shooting a woman who fled from him with a baby during a home invasion in rural Blaine County in 2005. Wendell Arden Grissom, 56, claimed he was drunk on vodka at the time. "I dont know what made me do what I did," he said in his confession. "I dont know. I never done anything like this in my life. ... I just dont know. I dont know. I have no explanation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals issued an order Tuesday setting the execution date. The state appeals court in 2011 upheld Grissom's conviction for first-degree murder, calling it "a callous and pitiless slaying." What did Wendell Grissom do? Grissom had left Arkansas on Nov. 2, 2005, to apply for work in Oklahoma City, according to the court's opinion. He picked up a homeless hitchhiker, Jessie Johns, just across the state line. They drank whiskey during the drive and discussed plans to commit robberies or burglaries to raise money. More: Executions in Oklahoma County are among the highest in the nation. The new DA may change that Blaine County After staying at a hotel in Oklahoma City, they drove the next day into Blaine County looking for a house to burglarize. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grissom then shot his way into a home chosen at random. He fought with Dreu Kopf who was inside her residence with her two young daughters and her best friend, Amber Matthews. Kopf begged him to take what he wanted and leave but he "just laughed at her," according to the opinion. He pulled a pistol from his waist and put it to her head. She grabbed at the gun as he fired. The bullet struck her on the side of the head, fracturing her skull. He then shot Kopf in the hip. Matthews had fled to a bedroom with her friend's baby. Grissom shot Matthews in the back of the head after she begged for her life, according to evidence presented at his 2008 trial. She was holding the baby at the time. Her blood splashed on the other child, a toddler, who was in a crib. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grissom shot Matthews a second time in the forehead on the floor as his accomplice came inside the house, according to the trial evidence. Kopf escaped in the shooter's pickup truck. A prosecutor told jurors the mother believed her children and friend were dead. Both men fled the house in a four-wheeler found in the garage and then got a ride to a store. They were arrested after buying beer and acting suspicious. The murder victim was 23 and lived in Kingfisher. Grissom was convicted at trial of first-degree murder, shooting with intent to kill, grand larceny and possession of a firearm after former conviction of a felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johns was convicted at a separate trial of first-degree murder and grand larceny. Johns, now 74, is serving life in prison without the possibility of parole. More: Oklahoma has carried out 15 executions since resuming them. Only Texas has more A clemency hearing for Grissom is tentatively set for Feb. 5 before the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board. He could waive his hearing. If it is held, his attorneys are expected to present evidence that he has brain damage that prevents him from controlling impulses and explosive behaviors. Gov. Kevin Stitt will make the final decision if the board recommends clemency. The governor cannot act if the board does not make that recommendation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Executions are carried out by lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. Grissom's execution originally was set for Jan. 11, 2024. It and others did not happen because the Oklahoma Department of Corrections asked for more time between procedures to reduce employee stress. The Court of Criminal Appeals is now setting executions about 90 days apart. The Court of Criminal Appeals set the new date after being notified that the execution of confessed child killer Kevin Ray Underwood had been carried out Dec. 19. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma confessed killer Wendell Grissom faces execution March 20 Comments from a UK official have resurfaced in the wake of criticism that the countrys government allegedly allowed grooming gangs to operate with little consequence. They made statements that made some believe that the UK intends to extradite US citizens for online comments. Well take a look at the situation and laws about freedom of speech in the US vs. the UK. What UK official said the UK will extradite US citizens for online comments? In August 2024, citizens protested after a knife attack left three girls dead. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley stated that the protests were fueled by misinformation and claimed the police would prosecute UK citizens violating the law on the streets and online. According to the New York Post, He claimed that the Metropolitan Police would take action against those committing crimes from further afield online. Many interpreted Rowleys comments as a threat to extradite and jail US citizens for posts online. Its unclear if Rowley is unaware of the USs robust freedom of speech protections or if his comments were misinterpreted. Regardless, theres no precedent for a US citizen being extradited to the UK just for something they said online, and the concept it would ever happen is absurd. Free speech protections in the United States Citizens of the United States enjoy near-absolute freedom of speech protections. The First Amendment clearly states: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. These protections also include speech that could offend or scare others. In its review of Brandenburg v. Ohio, the US Supreme Court stated that citizens have the right to speak openly about revolution or violent action. Additionally, in reviewing R.A.V. v. City of St. Paul the US Supreme Court noted that even hate speech is covered by the First Amendment. The major exception to the First Amendment is speech that incites imminent lawless action. So, a US citizen can advocate violence or hate toward a person or group as long as it isnt meant to produce an immediate action. For example: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Permitted: We should do something violent to someone sometime. Not Permitted: We should do something violent to someone right now. The former doesnt advocate immediate violence, so its protected speech. The latter encourages listeners to commit an imminent lawless action immediately and wouldnt fall under First Amendment protections. Free speech protections in the United Kingdom On the other hand, the UKs constitution has never been explicitly codified and is instead an amalgam of written and unwritten arrangements that date back a thousand years. Theres no First Amendment equivalent that gives a simple statement of a UK citizens right to speech. Furthermore, in the UK, hate speech is explicitly prohibited. Expressions of hatred based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability are all forbidden by the Public Order Act of 1986. More than one UK citizen has been arrested for making derogatory comments about others based on one of these characteristics. The UKs system of checks and balances also isnt as robust as the US. The UK Parliament is sovereign, and theres no supreme court to overturn legislation that is found to be unconstitutional. Additionally, unlike the US president, the UKs Prime Minister isnt part of a separate branch. Instead, theyre a direct part of the legislative framework, which means theyre involved with lawmaking instead of serving as a balance against it. As such, the UK government has less incentive to review regulations on free speech or challenge the status quo. What are the chances of a US citizen getting extradited to the UK for online comments? The bottom line is that theres almost no chance of a citizen living in the US being arrested and extradited to the UK for just saying something mean online. US citizens are not subject to UK law when not in the UK. Additionally, theres little chance of getting arrested for online speech under US law as its even harder to prove that its inciting imminent lawless action. The post We Explore Whether the UK Can Arrest US Citizens for What They Say on Social Media appeared first on Mandatory. This story was originally published on MyNorthwest.com Business owners neighboring Amazons Seattle headquarters were beaming on Monday following a return to the office for thousands of the tech giants employees. Amazons in-office policy now requires workers to be physically present five days a week for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. While workers rights advocates and some inside the company fought back against the return to the office, others like those who stand to make a profit are celebrating the resurgence of foot traffic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Expect traffic: Amazon employees in Washington begin return to office full time Cafe workers, food truck owners and more, all surrounding the corporate offices in South Lake Union, told KIRO Newsradio theyd noticed a higher number of people walking the sidewalks than any Monday in recent memory. And not just on foot, the roads appear to be taking a hit, too. Thats a price business owners like Edgar Mendoza are willing to pay if it means his taco stand Barriga Llena brings in more hungry workers on break. Extra income for everyone, not just me, he said through a smile. He admitted his commute from Burien was an extra 20 minutes, which he believes, is due to the sheer number of Amazons employees headed back to the office. Amazon employs about 50,000 people in the Seattle area and about 10,000 more across the lake in Bellevue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The off-ramp off of (Mercer Way) was much, much busier this morning, but were definitely seeing a lot more people down here before we even open up, said Chris McClendon, who works in a Venezuelan food truck. More on the company: Activists call on Amazon to speed up climate goals amid Prime Day Flanked by three more of his competitors trucks, he prepared the Paparepas truck for what he anticipated would be a lively Monday. Were definitely looking forward to seeing more people down here on Mondays and Fridays, he said, adding that he feels a particular gratitude for Amazon employees who came downtown when they didnt have to and supported the vendors anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But not everyone is happy. Some Amazon workers have protested being forced back to the office, arguing their productivity was just as high, if not higher, whilst working from home. The company has moved forward with its policy despite the criticisms, with CEO Andy Jassy reportedly telling employees in 2023 to disagree and commit or that their jobs were probably not going to work out. Its not clear how many, if any, Amazon employees have been fired for a refusal to return to the office. Facts all come with points of view facts dont do what I want them to, sang Talking Heads David Byrne, satirically, and now Mark Zuckerberg has reached the same conclusion. Hes scrapping the fact-checking services that Facebook and his other platforms use, as he seeks to make social media less hostile to conservative viewpoints. Were getting rid of a number of restrictions on topics like immigration, gender identity and gender Zuckerberg explained, so people can discuss them as freely as political representatives can in Congress. Free expression has suffered from the fact-checking obsession, he said, and hes not wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fact-checking became big business after the election of Donald Trump in 2016 was blamed on social media spreading misinformation, rather than the inadequacy and complacency of the political class. It became one of the most powerful forces in the modern world: a sprawling leviathan with tentacles reaching into both the public and private sector, Jacob Siegel wrote in Tablet magazine. Entirely legitimate topics of debate and none can be bigger than the question of whether Covid escaped from a Chinese laboratory could be labelled a conspiracy theory. Fact-checking was a key component of this. It came in handy because it could be used to suppress the distribution of stories and postings. A program intended to inform too often became a tool to censor, said Zuckerberg, as he gave the fact-checkers the boot. Once a news story or post had been labelled, it was much less likely to be distributed, which meant far few people would see it. All this did was encourage the censorious Left to shout louder and harder, to get more views removed. Naturally, given that the misinformation crisis only arose because the wrong (conservative) people were having the wrong (conservative) thoughts, half of the nation did not trust the fact-checkers. The fact-checkers work confirmed those misgivings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior research has shown that there is a selection bias toward fact checking Republicans more often and that they on average receive worse ratings, one academic study acknowledged in 2023. Instead, Zuckerberg is handing the labelling of posts over to Facebook users, so they can scrap it out in dogged hand-to-hand combat, which is really how it has always has been online since the days of bulletin boards and dial-up modems. Liberals looking to help from nanny will need to work harder to make their own case better. Its no coincidence that in less than two weeks, Donald Trump is being inaugurated for his second term. Facebook de-platformed Trump in January 2021, with policy chief Clegg reportedly backing the move. A two year spell in the social media wilderness followed for the former president. Now the Meta CEO is desperate to make amends. Nick Clegg has been superseded by a Republican Joel Kaplan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zuckerbergs bold move is awkward for the BBC, which has heavily promoted its own Department of Truth, BBC Verify. According to a Freedom of Information request by the Guido Fawkes blog, Verify (nicknamed BBC Vilify by its critics) employs over 60 staff. Yet it struggles with the basics. A key expert it used in the farm tax row was a Labour activist. The foundational error behind fact-checking is that if you make it difficult for people to discuss something, they stop thinking that its a problem. How has that worked out, overall? 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. BEIJING (Reuters) - Tibet was struck with a magnitude 6.8 earthquake on Tuesday, one of the most powerful tremors in recent years, that hit the northern foothills of the Himalayas, killing at least 95 people. Tibet is a seismically active zone. It logged more than 100 earthquakes of magnitude of at least 3.0 last year. But quakes of magnitude 7.0 and above are rare, with just nine since the turn of the 20th century. The epicentre was located in Tingri, a rural county near the boundary where the Indian tectonic plate collides with the Eurasian plate, creating long fault-lines across the Tibetan plateau. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Below are some notable quakes in Tibet in recent decades: JUNE 1, 2024 Magnitude: 5.9 Epicenter: Nagqu, northern Tibet Tibet's biggest earthquake in 2024, but no reports of casualties or property losses due to its isolated location. NOV. 18, 2017 Magnitude: 6.9 Epicenter: Mainling, eastern Tibet The largest earthquake in the Lhasa block since 1950. The Lhasa block, bounded by fault-lines, forms southern Tibet. The Mainling quake triggered more than 300 aftershocks, affecting over 12,000 people and damaging nearly 3,000 houses. Three people were hurt. OCT. 6, 2008 Magnitude: 6.6 Epicenter: Damxung, central Tibet Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 10 people were killed and 34 injured. The epicentre was close to that of a 1951 quake. NOV. 18, 1951 Magnitude: 8.0 Epicenter: Damxung, central Tibet The second earthquake of magnitude 8.0 or above since 1950. It formed a rupture in the ground that spanned 81 kilometres (50 miles). AUG. 15, 1950 Magnitude: 8.6 Epicenter: Medog, eastern Tibet One of the strongest earthquakes recorded globally in the 20th century. The quake destroyed thousands of homes, temples and mosques and killed over 3,000 people in Tibet and more than 1,000 in Assam, India. In the hardest-hit areas, mountains shifted and landscapes were altered. Several peaks collapsed, blocking the Yarlung Zangbo river, and landslides plunged villages into the river. (Reporting by Beijing Newsroom; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) By Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen and Louise Rasmussen COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - U.S. President-elect Donald Trump says he wants to make Greenland a part of the United States, renewing an interest first expressed in 2019 when he offered to buy the sprawling Arctic island from Denmark - and was rebuffed. The mostly ice-covered island of just 57,000 people, which boasts vast mineral resources and is strategically important for the U.S. military, has been a part of Denmark for over 600 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation," Trump said in a Truth Social post on Monday. "This is a deal that must happen," Trump said on Tuesday after his son, Donald Trump Jr., paid a private visit to Greenland. COULD TRUMP BUY GREENLAND? Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede, who recently has stepped up a push for independence from Denmark, has repeatedly said the island is not for sale and that it is up to its people to decide their future. "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," Egede said on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The island, a former colony of Denmark, became a formal territory of the Nordic kingdom in 1953 and is subject to the Danish constitution, meaning that any change to its legal status would require a constitutional amendment. In 2009, the island was granted broad self-governing autonomy, including the right to declare independence from Denmark through a referendum. In 2019, both Greenland and Denmark rejected Trump's offer to buy the island. When Greenland was still a colony, the United States under then-President Harry Truman sought to buy the island as a strategic asset during the Cold War for $100 million in gold, but Copenhagen declined to sell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHAT IF GREENLAND BECOMES INDEPENDENT? If Greenland becomes independent, it could choose to become associated with the United States. While the majority of Greenlanders want independence, few see full independence as viable given their economic dependence on Denmark, which is part of the affluent European Union. One option could be to form a so-called "free association" pact with the United States, similar to the status of Pacific island nations Marshall Islands, Micronesia and Palau. "Greenland is talking about becoming independent from Denmark, but no Greenlanders want to just switch to a new colonial master," said Ulrik Pram Gad, a senior researcher and expert on Greenland at the Danish Institute for International Studies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He finds it unlikely Greenland will vote for independence without ensuring the welfare of its population. Last week, Egede urged the people of Greenland to break free from "the shackles of colonialism" and shape their own future. WHY IS TRUMP INTERESTED? Greenland has strategic significance for the U.S. military and its ballistic missile early-warning system since the shortest route from Europe to North America runs via the Arctic island. The U.S. military maintains a permanent presence at the Pituffik air base in Greenland's northwest. The United States has expressed interest in a greater military presence, including placing radars in Greenland to monitor the waters between the island, Iceland and Britain that are a gateway for Russian navy vessels and nuclear submarines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is geographically part of the North American continent, and it is vital for the United States to avoid any other major powers establishing a foothold on the Arctic island, according to senior researcher Ulrik Pram. The island, whose capital Nuuk is closer to New York than the Danish capital Copenhagen, also boasts mineral, oil and natural gas wealth, but development has been slow. Greenland has banned extraction of oil and natural gas for environmental reasons, and development of its mining sector has been snarled in red tape and opposition from indigenous people. This has kept Greenland's economy reliant on fishing, which accounts for over 95% of exports, and annual subsidies from Denmark, which cover roughly half of the public budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, Denmark spends just under $1 billion each year on Greenland. WHAT DOES GREENLAND WANT? An independence movement has gained traction in Greenland in recent years. A majority of Greenland's inhabitants support independence, but are divided over the timing and potential impact on living standards. Greenlandic politicians have since 2019 repeatedly said they are interested in strengthening cooperation and trade with the United States. "Our future and fight for independence is our business," Egede said. Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, said the idea of a U.S. takeover should be firmly rejected. "I don't want to be a pawn in Trump's hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country," she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHAT DOES DENMARK SAY? The renewed interest comes amid heightened tensions between Greenland and Denmark, following revelations of historical misconduct by the former colonial ruler. Trump's 2019 offer to buy the island was firmly rejected by Denmark, a close NATO ally of the United States, and labelled as "absurd" by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. When asked about Trump's renewed interest on Tuesday, Frederiksen said: "We need very close cooperation with the Americans." She added: "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." (Editing by Terje Solsvik and Mark Heinrich) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican U.S. President-elect Donald Trump held a press conference on Tuesday and spoke about a range of issues including NATO, Israeli hostages in Gaza, his wish for the U.S. to buy Greenland and take control of the Panama Canal. He also discussed Elon Musk and speculation about Canada becoming a U.S. state. Here are some of his key quotes, ahead of his Jan. 20 inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CANADA Asked about his idea that Canada should be a U.S. state, Trump said: "You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like, and it would also be much better for national security. Don't forget, we basically protect Canada. 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. We're spending hundreds of billions a year to take care of Canada. We lose in trade deficits." ISRAELI HOSTAGES IN GAZA "All hell will break out. If they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East, and it will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone. All hell will break out." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MEXICO "We have a massive deficit with Mexico, and we help Mexico a lot. They're essentially run by the cartels, and can't let that happen, because Mexico is really in trouble, a lot of trouble, very dangerous place. We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. And it's appropriate. It's appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country." PANAMA CANAL, GREENLAND Since he won the Nov. 5 election Trump has talked about the U.S. buying the Danish territory of Greenland, and the U.S. retaking control of the Panama Canal. He declined on Tuesday to rule out military or economic action as part of those desires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump added: "I can say this, we need them for economic security." Trump did not commit to negotiating a treaty with Panama, but said: "Look, the Panama Canal is vital to our country." He added: "It's being operated by China, China, and we gave the Panama Canal to Panama. We didn't give it to China, and they've abused it. They've abused that gift. It should have never been made." ELON MUSK Musk, the Tesla chief executive and Trump's choice to co-chair a commission aimed at cutting government spending, has criticized British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in recent days over his performance when Starmer was the UK's director of public prosecutions. Musk has said Starmer failed to prosecute gangs of men who raped young girls. Starmer said on Tuesday that Musk knew "absolutely nothing" about the scandals he has been commenting on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has also expressed support for the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Asked for his reaction to Musk's "provocative statements" about foreign affairs in Europe and elsewhere, Trump said: "I can say Elon's doing a good job. Very smart guy. I don't know the people you're talking about. He was, I know he said some negative things about a couple of people that are running for office, but it's not so unusual." TRUMP ON NATO Trump said he believes European members of NATO should spend 5% of their GDP on the alliance's defense. "I think NATO should have 5%, yeah. Well, you can't do it at two I mean, at 2% every country, if you're going to have a country and a regular military, you're at 4% I think they should be, you know, they're in dangerous territory. They can all afford it, but they should be at 5% not 2%." (Reporting by Tim Reid and Helen Coster, editing by Ross Colvin and David Gregorio) THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) Some families in the Bronx celebrated Three Kings Day at a party hosted by a local business and volunteers on Monday. The annual Three Kings Day event happened after a parade hosted by El Museo del Barrio in East Harlem. More Local News It is the day Christians commemorate the arrival of the Three Kings to the Nativity. The party is put on by the owner of a McDonalds franchise on Bruckner Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each year families from nearby homeless shelters are invited to join the festivities with food and gifts for the children. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editors note: This story has been updated to clarify information about a confrontation that took place outside the courtroom on Monday. CONWAY, S.C. (WBTW) It was a dramatic scene outside of an Horry County courtroom Monday afternoon after the first day of the stand your ground hearing for a woman charged with killing a co-worker at Nacho Hippo in North Myrtle Beach in 2022. Defense attorney Stuart Axelrod said Tuesday morning that a confrontation that took place involved witness tampering. He said involved members of the families of his client Lafredia Todd and the victim, Quentin Johnson, who was shot and killed inside the restaurant on July 28, 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Johnsons brother, told News13 the clash involved only members of Johnsons family and that it was immediately resolved. Todds trial was set to begin Monday with jury selection, but defense attorneys filed an eleventh-hour motion for a hearing under South Carolinas stand your ground law, which gives a person the right to use all means necessary, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it would prevent harm to themselves or their property. It was the second delay in Todds proceedings, as her first trial was slated for late July, but was delayed at the defense attorneys request. The first witness in Tuesdays stand your ground hearing and third overall worked with Johnson and Todd. She told a North Myrtle Beach police officer in 2022 that he was a hot head the night of the shooting, testifying he was going to get a gun out out of his car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The witness said she never saw Todd with a gun but was outside the restaurant when Johnson was shot. On cross-examination, the witness said she heard two gunshots the night of the shooting, with a gap of several minutes between them. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. * * * Skylar Musick is a multimedia journalist at News13. Skylar is originally from Long Island, New York. She joined the News13 team in June 2024 after graduating from Villanova University in May 2024. Follow Skylar on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read more of her work here. 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 WBTW. Slow-cooked meats and around two dozen side dishes, ranging from guacamole and homemade salsas to mashed potatoes, are on the menu at a new counter-service restaurant opening soon in St. Paul. Siblings and second-generation entrepreneurs Luna and Anthony Ramirez said Tres Bandidos will open in early February at 143 Snelling Avenue North, in the former Red's Savoy Pizza spot next to Dunkin' Donuts. Their father, Adrian Ramirez, founded West St. Paul institution Taco Libre, which today has five Twin Cities locations run by the Ramirez family. Tres Bandidos will open in early February at 143 Snelling Avenue North. Photo by Christine Schuster | Bring Me The News. Anthony Ramirez said Tres Bandidos is inspired by the success of the counter-service dining they launched one year ago inside their South St. Paul grocery store, Mexatlan Supermercado. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carnitas (Mexican pulled pork), barbacoa (a Mexican beef dish) and rotisserie chicken will form the foundation of the menu at Tres Bandidos, which will offer around ten cold sides and ten hot sides for customers to choose from. Anthony Ramirez said the casual, plated meals will be offered in a similar fashion to Panda Express. However, instead of a fortune cookie, all customers will be treated to a made-fresh bolillo- a French baguette variation popular in Mexico. The menu will feature both traditional Mexican cuisine, inspired by Ramirez family recipes, and American dishes, such as mashed potatoes and other barbecue-style offerings, according to Luna Ramirez. Related: Minnesota restaurant openings & closings for December 2024 The restaurant will be family-oriented and offer family packages, she added. Delivery and catering services will also be available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anthony Ramirez said operating hours are expected to be from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Currently, they're exploring breakfast options that may cater to nearby college students. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) Mayor Randall Woodfin released Monday morning the Birmingham Crime Commissions 66-page report aimed at providing a strategy to reduce gun violence in the city. In October, Woodfin put together an independent commission made up of leaders from the business, criminal justice, healthcare and nonprofit sectors to identify strategies to address the citys homicide rate. The commission was charged with researching whats worked in other cities to try and come up best practices. The stated goal was to set a path toward making Birmingham the safest city in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report was revealed after Birmingham recorded 149 homicides in 2024, a 10% increase over the number of homicides investigated in 2023. Irondale police officer killed by car while on duty The report states that Birmingham has experienced a sustained increase in violent crime, particularly homicides, over the past five years and that Birminghams homicide rate is seven times higher than the national average, with the most violent crimes taking place in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Birmingham is a great city, but we have work to do, said Ralph Williams, Jr. a co-chair of the Birmingham Crime Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crime commission report recommends the immediate implementation of the following strategies: Focused deterrence targeting high risk individuals and groups Community violence intervention Shooting reviews Focus on hotspots Birmingham Crime Commission co-chair Lee Styslinger shared its key findings. Two of the key findings we came out with was the definitive need for enhanced number of patrol officers in the city of Birmingham, Styslinger said. In addition, we focused on the need for enhanced lighting throughout the city and enhanced security cameras, Styslinger continued. According to the report, transformation is grounded in addressing the root causes of violence, including poverty, unemployment and a lack of opportunities for youth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodfin addressed this issue during Mondays media briefing, noting that gun violence in Birmingham is more than just a police issue. Not just gainfully employ but empower and encourage our young boys and men that look, We want you to put the guns down' Woodfin said. We know theres a culture and celebration of these so-called sticks and tools you have, but theres consequences when you live this lifestyle.' Former Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper said that now is the time for action. The difference between a good report and a great report is follow up, Roper said. The mayor has assured us, with the councils support, that there will be a lot of actions taken based on this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birmingham man dead after shooting inside residence The report calls for advocating for a state ban on Glock switches and more collaboration in the criminal justice system in Birmingham and Jefferson County. Woodfin said there are other branches of government that have to play their part, including the judicial branch of government. The report also talks about the urgent need to modernize the Birmingham Police Department through improved recruitment, retention and technology upgrades. In regard to staffing shortages, the report states that insufficient personnel, particularly in the homicide unit, has resulted in strained workloads, slower response times, and backlogged cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report recommends the BPD prioritize recruitment of highly qualified officers to fill the 233 current vacancies. You can read the full report by clicking here. Birmingham resident Daphne Ballard, who lost her younger cousin Derek Burpo to gun violence last week, spoke to CBS 42 News again Monday afternoon. Birmingham police believe the 51-year-old was shot and killed while trying to deliver a pizza in the 400 block of Roebuck Drive on New Years Day. Ballard said Burpos older brother was shot and killed back in 2004. Photo of Derek Burpo in his 20s She said shes hopeful in the wake of the release of Mondays report but has concerns about generational trauma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not just about my family, Ballard said. Its about everyone thats hurting. Theres a lot of trauma in Birmingham. We have to be able to address the people that were dealing with, and when trauma is involved, you cannot expect people to be normal, Ballard continued. We have to address that hurt. There have not been any arrests announced in connection to Ballards death. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Former President Jimmy Carter begins work at a future Habitat for Humanity home in Nashville in 2019. (Habitat for Humanity International) I have been thinking deeply of late about my familys relationship with former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn. Its near and dear to my heart. President Carter was a devout Baptist who attended Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia. He even taught a Sunday School class there attended by people all over the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My grandpa was a Baptist minister for 60 years, and he and my grandma resided in a big old house in Americus, Georgia, which is close to Plains. When the Maranatha pastor was away, they often asked my grandpa to preach there. My mom reported that President Carter once told my grandpa: Frank, you always help me. My grandmas brother was involved in the Baptist church and was good friends with President Carter. In fact, my great uncle was married in the governors mansion in Georgia when President Carter was governor. In 1997, I lived with my grandparents for several months at their home in Americus and worked as a writer at the international headquarters of Habitat for Humanity. We would often receive letters from people who inquired about President Carter. I would refer them to the Carter Center in Atlanta. During my time at Habitat I learned how much the Carters did with Habitat and how they helped so many in need of housing. Thats what they did, all the time: They helped people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosalynn Carter did so much to help people with mental health challenges. Her spirit of advocacy lives on. Her vision to help eradicate stigma and discrimination persists as well. Its truly inspiring. The Carters practiced what they preached. They saw the heart and spirit of people, and they reached out to help and to touch lives. They werent into fame and fortune and they gave from the heart. President Carters presidency wasnt perfect, but he wasnt into himself. He was intelligent and kind. The other day, when some big truck was trying to run me off the road, I was reminded of President Carter and how he dealt with angry and entitled people. I was reminded of my own faith journey and how my grandpa taught me to live out my faith and to treat folks with compassion and patience. My grandma lived with mental illness, and my grandpa never raised his voice with her or demeaned her. He respected and honored her. It was truly an example to our family and to others. We all feel despair at times. We all feel distressed by the drama and trauma in America and the world. Its so easy to get disheartened and to lose faith in the good in the world, in what is right and kind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I never want to come across as a Pollyanna, but I do believe the Carters can teach us what is lacking today empathy, kindness and patience. If we act like people owe us something, we will always come up lacking. But if we seek first to ask what we can do for others, then we will receive a great reward. The time is now to look at life with a heart and mind of dignity and respect of all people. Who are we to judge others? Who are we to determine who deserves rights and lovingkindness? God is the God of all. Lets be a little bit more like President and Mrs. Carter. Lets show compassion in a world gone mad. Lets lift others up and dare to hope for a brighter future. Rebecca Lyn Phillips is a published author, speaker and mental health advocate. Through its opinion section, the Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary, here. (FOX40.COM) The family of Tyre Nichols, Councilmember Lisa Kaplan, and the Sacramento chapter of the NAACP are holding a vigil Tuesday to commemorate Nichols life, Kaplans office said. Nichols, who grew up in Sacramento, was beaten to death by Memphis Police officers in Tennessee during a traffic stop on January 7, 2023. New national monuments to be established in Northern, Southern California The event will be held at 5 p.m. at the skate park in Regency Park in Sacramento which Nichols skated at and which was named after him following his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The past two years have been painful, but we remain on the path of purpose, Nicholss relative La Toya Yizar said. This event will be about remembering Tyre and developing a consistent space for conversations about reform and healing that our community urgently needs. The event will begin with a candlelight vigil with remarks from local leaders, clergy, and community members, as well as a moment of silence to remember Tyre and all victims of police violence, Kaplans office 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 FOX40 News. WEST PALM BEACH Almost no one who spoke at Emmett Christian Jr.'s sentencing hearing did so without weeping. Faced with more than three decades in prison for the drunken, high-speed crash that killed a young mother of two, Christian began to cry before he told the judge his name. He said he wished he had died on July 28, 2023, instead of Tanner Badgley. Distracted by a passenger in the back seat of his sedan, Christian plowed into Badgley's parked pickup at 90 mph, launching the 23-year-old woman through the windshield and onto the pavement of an intersection in The Acreage. "We will never come to terms with losing her," said Christina Badgley, Tanner's sister-in-law. "We will grieve her for far longer than we had the privilege of knowing her." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thursday's hearing was Christian's last opportunity to ask Circuit Judge Sarah Willis for a shorter sentence than the 12-year term prosecutors recommended. Rather than plead for mercy, like his loved ones did before him, he spoke to Badgley's family. "No apologies could bring her back," he said. "But I am very sorry for what I did. I wish it was me that died that day." Victim was beloved member of Badgley family long before she married into it Christian pleaded guilty on Thursday to DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide and driving under the influence, charges for which he faced a maximum of 31 years in state prison. He did so without first negotiating a plea deal with prosecutors, leaving Willis to decide his fate. Before she did, she heard testimony from the family and friends devastated by Badgley's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Born Tanner Naszkiewicz and raised in Royal Palm Beach, Badgley was one of four siblings. All who testified Thursday said she was a sister to many more namely, the Badgley daughters, a set of girls who loved and teased and played with her long before she married their brother, Joe. "She was the best friend my little sister ever had," Nikki Badgley said. "I used to joke that they were the two halves of a whole idiot, but the truth is, I think they really were each others other half." 'So deeply sorry': Lake Worth driver addresses family of man he killed in high-speed crash Badgley's mother, Jennifer Wright, said Badgley was more than her daughter. She was her best friend, with whom Wright grocery shopped, watched TV, played cards and spoke to on FaceTime while she cooked dinner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Badgley was on the phone with her mother just before 12:30 a.m. on the night of the crash. She'd parked on northbound Royal Palm Beach Boulevard near 57th Road North with her hazard lights flashing, while she, her husband and their friend waited for a tow truck to pull her brother's car from a ravine where it had gotten stuck. Christian, on his way home from a strip club with passengers in the back seat, slammed his Honda Accord into the Ford F-150 going twice the speed limit. "She was mid-sentence, laughing," Wright said Thursday. "And then just silence." Joe Badgley described the frantic minutes he spent performing CPR on his wife while waiting for first responders to arrive. He said he held her in his arms, pleaded with her to stay and watched her take her last breath. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His mother, Michelle, cried throughout his testimony. When given her own chance to speak, she called Badgley "the strongest force in this family" and briefly addressed the man responsible for her death. "I pray that you forgive yourself someday, and Im sad for your family, and I know that God will forgive you," she said. "But I just cant see it in my heart that I ever will." DUI driver's family asks for four-year sentence. Victim's family wanted more Christian's relatives who spoke Thursday openly grieved Badgley's death. Amid apologies to her family, they spoke of Christian as they know him not as the drunk driver, but as a loving father to his little boy and teenage stepson, a man who never hesitated to lend a hand around his elderly neighbor's home. "Emmett is more broken than Ive ever seen him in my life," said his partner, Nina Martin, who met Christian as a seventh grader in the Virgin Islands. "The weight of knowing that he took a life makes him want to take his own." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She and others said what Assistant Public Defender Daniel Kassebaum reiterated during his closing argument to the judge: Badgley's death was a tragic accident. They asked that Willis depart from the roughly 12-year penalty recommended by state sentencing guidelines and sentence him to four years instead. Assistant State Attorney Storm Tropea disagreed. "I don't ever want to stand here and be the big bad wolf, your honor. But as a prosecutor, it's my job to seek justice," he said. "And I think a downward departure in this case would not be justice." Willis didn't rule immediately. She paused often as she weighed the devastation wrought by Badgley's death against the accidental nature of the crime, along with Christian's remorse and lack of a criminal record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, she made the decision that caused two of Badgley's relatives watching over Zoom to cry again, their microphones muted. Whether four years or 31 years in prison, "it does not make Mr. Christian unredeemable," Willis said. She sentenced him to nine years. Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Man sentenced in DUI high-speed crash that killed Royal Palm woman A far-right publishing house that publishes the works of historical and contemporary fascists is hosting a Coronation Ball at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., to celebrate Donald Trumps second inauguration, featuring a guest list thats a veritable whos-who of MAGA influencers and so-called New Right luminaries. Passage Press will throw the confab in the Watergate Hotels Moretti Ballroom on the evening of Jan. 19, the night before Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th president of the U.S., according to an events page on the publishing houses website. That the events title refers to Trumps inauguration as a coronation a word typically reserved for the crowning of kings and queens in monarchies underscores the anti-democratic, authoritarian nature of the black-tie soiree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Celebrate the inauguration of Donald John Trump, Passage Press tweeted Monday, the four-year anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Be there as NRX is introduced to the MAGA brain trust. Be there as MAGA meets the Tech Right. NRX stands for neoreactionary and is used as a shorthand for the Dark Enlightenment, a far-right movement whose adherents are often as explicit in their distaste for democracy as they are in their reverence for fascism and monarchism. One of Passage Press biggest authors is Dark Enlightenment figurehead Curtis Yarvin. The former Silicon Valley programmer blogged for years under the pen name Mencius Moldbug before emerging as a kind of court philosopher for reactionary tech billionaires and prominent MAGA movers and shakers (including Vice President-elect JD Vance). Yarvin has advocated for a national CEO, [or] whats called a dictator to be in charge of America. He is scheduled to attend the Coronation Ball, according to a post from Passage Press, as are Jack Posobiec, Mike Cernovich, Christopher Rufo, Steve Bannon, Anna Khachiyan and Dasha Nekrasova. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The publishing house later deleted its tweet listing the Coronation Balls confirmed attendees. Hotels, particularly in the Washington area, have a history of canceling or refusing to host gatherings for white supremacists or other bigots. Reached for comment about hosting a party whose organizers and prominent attendees have espoused fascist views, the Watergate Hotel housed in the same building where former President Richard Nixons lackeys broke into the Democratic National Committees headquarters in 1972, precipitating Nixons resignation sent HuffPost the following statement: The Watergate Hotel prides itself on being a luxury destination that reflects the values of inclusivity and respect. As a hotel with a long-standing reputation for excellence, we prioritize the safety, comfort, and dignity of our guests and our dedicated team of employees. What we know about Passage Press comes largely from a remarkable Guardian expose published by journalist Jason Wilson last year. In the piece, he unmasked the head of the company, a far-right influencer who went by the name L0m3z, as Jonathan Keeperman, a former English lecturer at the University of California, Irvine. Jonathan Keeperman speaks at the National Conservative Conference in Washington D.C., Wednesday, July 10, 2024. DOMINIC GWINN via Getty Images As L0m3z, Keeperman accrued a following on X, where he currently has 95,000 followers, in part by posting invective directed at anti-racist protesters, queer people and journalists. He expressed support for Kyle Rittenhouse, the armed teenager who fatally shot two protesters in Kenosha, Wisconsin, in 2020, writing, May a million Kyle Rittenhouses bloom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also wrote the he was coming around to the idea that the most powerful and effective political argument against the left in 2020 is probably simple as: shut up fag. And Keeperman once appeared to advocate the mass execution of journalists. The press are in fact the enemy, he tweeted. They are mewling midwit scum. Sniveling liars and desperate status junkies. My abiding contempt for them is only ever confirmed. As Wilson reported, Keeperman also posted a list of policy proposals that included the phrase lamppost the journos an apparent call to kill reporters by hanging them. Keeperman and Passage Press didnt immediately respond to a request for comment about these statements, nor did they respond to questions seeking further details about the Coronation Ball. Under Keepermans leadership, Passage Press has reprinted out-of-print or public-domain books by historical fascist and reactionary writers, Wilson wrote, including works by radical German nationalist and militarist Ernst Junger; Peter Kemp, who fought as a volunteer in Francisco Francos army during the Spanish civil war; and two counter-revolutionary Russian aristocrats, White Russian general Pyotr Wrangel and Prince Serge Obolensky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passage Press contemporary authors include Steve Sailer, a blogger for the white supremacist site VDARE. Sailer has written that Black people tend to possess poorer native judgment than members of better-educated groups and need stricter moral guidance from society. Sailers book for Passage Press, Noticing, is an anthology of his musings on, among other subjects, human biodiversity, the preferred white supremacist nomenclature for eugenics and so-called race science. (Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson provided a fawning blurb for the book, writing that if the meritocracy were real, Steve Sailer would be one of the most famous writers in the world.) Passage Press also publishes a magazine called Mans World, which is edited and run by the pseudonymous misogynist Raw Egg Nationalist. In the Fox Nation documentary The End of Men, hosted by Carlson, Raw Egg Nationalist argued that globalists were manipulating food supplies to lower testosterone levels and emasculate men. Before working with Passage Press, Raw Egg Nationalist published books with Antelope Hill, a neo-Nazi publishing house based in Pennsylvania. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis listens to activist and New College of Florida trustee Christopher Rufo before signing three education bills on the campus of New College of Florida in Sarasota, Fla. on Monday, May 15, 2023. The Washington Post via Getty Images Keeperman has also formed relationships with major figures in the MAGA movement, including Rufo, a fellow at the major conservative think tank the Manhattan Institute and close ally of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Republican governor is known for fanning the flames of outrage surrounding critical race theory and trans ideology, which right-wing figures like Rufo claim are being taught in Americas schools. After Trumps election victory in November, Rufo claimed he was set to meet with the president-elect at Mar-a-Lago to pitch him on policy proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rufo is listed as an attendee of the Coronation Ball, according to a tweet from Passage Press, but didnt immediately respond to a request to confirm his attendance. Rufo, Yarvin and Keeperman are often considered part of the New Right, a rebranding of familiar counter-revolutionary and anti-democratic politics. Its the same ideology that animated the alt-right, the white supremacist movement that exploded into the public consciousness for its close relationship to the 2016 Trump campaign, only to collapse in the wake of its deadly and disastrous Unite The Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Coronation Ball hearkens back to two alt-right gatherings in Washington D.C. celebrating Trumps election win. In November 2016, the city hosted a conference held by the now-defunct National Policy Institute, the fascist organization helmed by suit-and-tie neo-Nazi Richard Spencer. Spencer finished his speech by declaring Hail Victory! the English translation of the Nazi cry Sieg Heil and Hail Trump! A viral video from the event captured Spencers supporters throwing up the stiff-armed Nazi salute in response. There was also the Deploraball event in January 2017, on the eve of Trumps first inauguration, attended by a slew of conspiracy theorists and bigots, including the anti-Muslim activist Pamela Gellar; Gavin McInnes, the founder of the violent fascist street gang the Proud Boys; white nationalist Lauren Southern; Jim Hoft, founder of the misinformation-heavy news site Gateway Pundit; Cernovich, a pundit and date rape denier; and Posobiec, a conspiracist with a long history of associating with extremists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cernovic and Posobiec are both scheduled to appear at this months Coronation Ball, according to a tweet from Passage Press. They also both confirmed that they would attend in posts on X. Posobiecs path from PizzaGate influencer to fancy Watergate gala attendee is representative of how Trumps ascent in politics has catapulted a coterie of once-fringe media figures into powerful positions in American politics. He got his start as a Game of Thrones blogger before pivoting to promoting multiple far-right conspiracy theories, all while developing extensive ties to white supremacists and publicly posting racist and antisemitic messages online. Posobiec nevertheless became a MAGA star and a prominent pro-Trump propagandist, appearing regularly on Fox News and at the Conservative Political Action Conference, among other forums. Last year he published the book Unhumans: The Secret History Of Communist Revolutions (And How To Crush Them), in which he argues that Americans with left-of-center views are subhuman while praising the violent fascistic regimes of Franco in Spain and Augusto Pinochet in Chile. (Vance provided a blurb for the book.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald J. Trump is waiting in the wings, Posobiec said while promoting Unhumans at the National Conservatism Conference last year. And when he assumes office again, let me tell you, the globalists and their entire regime will be smashed to pieces and scattered to the winds. He then added: We dont negotiate with unhumans because thats the stakes of this humanity versus unhuman; populist nationalist versus atheistic Marxist; strength, beauty and genius versus weakness, ugliness and stupidity; civilization versus barbarism; crime and chaos versus law. Other expected guests at the Coronation Ball, per Passage Press, include Joshua Lisec, a ghostwriter for right-wing influencers and a co-author with Posobiec of Unhumans. Jack Posobiec, center, attends the cocktail hour of the New York Young Republican Club's annual gala at Cipriani Wall Street, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in New York. via Associated Press Steve Bannon is set to attend, too, according to Passage Press. Bannon was the executive chairman of Breitbart, which he called the platform for the alt-right. (He later walked back that description, insisting he was never a supporter of ethno-nationalism.) He ran Trumps 2016 campaign, later served in Trumps White House, and this past October was released from prison after serving four months for refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena from the committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. He is currently the host of the popular War Room podcast. Bannon didnt immediately respond to a request for comment about whether he would attend the Coronation Ball, but his War Room co-host, Natalie Winters, tweeted that she will be at the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two other popular podcasters, Khachiyan and Nekrasova, hosts of Red Scare, are also scheduled to attend the Coronation Ball, according to Passage Press. Khachiyan and Nekrasova started the podcast years ago as a nominally left, socialist program, but eventually emerged as apostles of the New Right, cozying up to Yarvin and far-right tech billionaire Peter Thiel, along with the type of conspiracy theorist they used to skewer InfoWars Alex Jones. Neither Khachiyan or Nekrasova immediately responded to a request for comment. Grimes, the famous musician and ex-wife of Elon Musk the worlds richest man and a close Trump ally, currently on a campaign of embracing Europes most extreme right-wing and fascist political parties was listed by Passage Press as a confirmed attendee, but a representative told HuffPost she will not be in attendance. Also listed as an attendee is Jeremy Carl, a fellow at the Claremont Institute, the influential MAGA think tank. Carl is the author of the book The Unprotected Class,which ludicrously asserts thatanti-white racism is the most predominant and politically powerful form of racism in America today. Carl didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday morning, Passage Press tweeted that the Coronation Ball was sold out. That tweet was deleted Tuesday afternoon, around the same time the ticket price for the event on the Passage Press website shot up from $250 to $875. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated Steve Bannons role at Breitbart. He was the executive chairman, not a cofounder. This article has also been updated to include comments Bannon made clarifying his and Breitbarts relationship to the alt-right. Related... VIENNA (AP) Austrian far-right leader Herbert Kickl said Tuesday in his first comments after being tasked to form a new government that he aspires to govern Austria honestly as he prepared for talks on a potential coalition with conservatives who criticized him sharply in the past. Kickl said he's prepared for new elections if they fail. His Russia-friendly, anti-immigration, euroskeptic Freedom Party won Austria's parliamentary election in September but was initially shunned by other parties. Their efforts to put together a coalition without it failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Kickl received a mandate to try to form what would be the first national government led by the far right since World War II. That came after the conservative Austrian Peoples Party of outgoing Chancellor Karl Nehammer, who announced his resignation Saturday, made an abrupt U-turn on its previous refusal to contemplate working with the Freedom Party under Kickl. Kickl a 56-year-old with a provocative style made clear he hasn't forgotten past friction with the People's Party. Nehammer has described him as a security risk. The party's interim leader, Christian Stocker, said during the election campaign that anyone voting for Kickl is voting for five years of high risk with radical ideas. Our country was driven into the wall in the past five years, Kickl said, pointing in particular to Austria's large budget deficit and what he said was a massive trust deficit accumulated by mainstream parties. He said he has a very, very simple aim, and that is to govern Austria honestly. Kickl said he is reaching out to Stocker, and you can believe me, that isn't easy for me either we have an interesting past together but it is honest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kickl added he has clear expectations, including an awareness of who won the election, and who finished second and isn't the winner. He also demanded an understanding of who is responsible for the mistakes of the past and a partner with stable and consistent leadership. If this isn't assured ... I can say that's it, Kickl said. Then there will be new elections we are prepared for that. The Freedom Party won 28.8% of the vote in September. That was a nearly 13-point gain from five years earlier, when the party was punished by voters following the collapse of a conservative-led government in which it was the junior partner amid a scandal surrounding the Freedom Party's then-leader. The Austrian Peoples Party came in second with 26.3% and the center-left Social Democrats, post-war Austria's other traditional big party, were third with 21.1%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Freedom Party's poll ratings have risen since the election as its rivals struggled and failed to find common ground. Surveys published in December put its support at between 35% and 37%. Kickl didn't address any specific policies for Austria, a member of the European Union but not NATO, in his lengthy statement to reporters. He took no questions. The Freedom Party is part of a right-wing populist alliance in the European Parliament, Patriots for Europe, which includes the parties of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and of the Netherlands Geert Wilders, whose party dominates the Netherlands new government. Nehammer has said he will step down on Friday. It's not clear who will serve as interim chancellor while Kickl explores a possible coalition. ___ Moulson reported from Berlin. LOS ANGELES (KTLA) Tens of thousands of residents in the western Los Angeles area were under mandatory evacuation orders Tuesday evening as a wind-driven wildfire exploded in size and swept through communities in the Pacific Palisades. The Palisades Fire was first reported around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in the 1100 block of North Piedra Morada Drive. By evening, the fire had exploded to more than 2,900 acres and was expected to keep spreading amid hurricane-force Santa Ana winds. There was no containment, according to CalFire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no initial estimate for the number of structures damaged or destroyed. However, news footage showed dozens of homes and other structures ablaze. Evacuations were ordered for the entire Palisades community down to the Pacific Ocean, according to CalFire. During a Tuesday afternoon press conference, officials said more than 10,000 homes in Pacific Palisades and Malibu were affected by the evacuation order. Evacuation warnings also extended into areas of Santa Monica and Calabasas. The Palisades Fire ravages a neighborhood amid high winds in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Flames rise as the Palisades Fire advances on homes in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Will Adams watches as flames from the Palisades Fire close in on his property in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Water is dropped on the advancing Palisades Fire by helicopter in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Plumes of smoke are seen as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades, California on January 7, 2025. (Getty Images) Plumes of smoke are seen as a brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades as seen from Santa Monica, California on January 7, 2025. (Getty Images) View of the Palisades Fire from LAX on Jan. 7, 2025. (KTLA) A palm tree is seen burning during the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles on Jan. 7, 2025. (KTLA) An ALERTCalifornia camera view of a brush fire in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles County. Jan. 7, 2024. (ALERTCalifornia) A firefighter tries to extinguish a fire as it damages a property in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo) Firefighters work to extinguish flames engulfing a home as a brush fire rages in Pacific Palisades, California, on January 7, 2025. (Getty Images) A firefighter battles the Palisades Fire as it burns a structure in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) A firefighter jumps over a fence while fighting the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) An evacuation shelter for people and pets was established at the Westwood Recreation Center at 1350 S. Sepulveda Boulevard. At a Tuesday afternoon press conference, fire and law enforcement officials, City and County leaders, and Gov. Gavin Newsom discussed the adverse conditions that led to the Palisades Fire raging out of control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom called the fire a hell of a way to start the New Year. Hundreds of firefighters from across the region were battling the blaze. Local law enforcement assisted with traffic control and evacuations, with the Los Angeles Police Department providing more than 100 officers to assist their counterparts. So far, the major job for our people have been evacuation, traffic control, allowing ingress and egress to emergency vehicles, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said. I would have an ask that if you would, please do everything you can to open up the streets so we can get the resources we need to be able to deal with this emergency. L.A. City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson echoed those statements, urging Angelenos to stay off the roads, even in areas that havent been affected by the blaze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The worst and most severe part of this wind event is yet to come, Harris-Dawson said. So if youre around the city and you have been spared, be thankful, but also be on guard. Bring your lawn furniture in and again, help us by staying off the roads. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Pacific Palisades is located about 10 miles from Malibu, where the Franklin Fire burned more than 4,000 acres and burned several homes after erupting during similar windy conditions in December. Palisades Fire Resources: LAFD Alerts | CALFIRE Incident Page | LAFD on X Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Federal authorities have joined the manhunt in Wisconsin for 47-year-old Virgil Thew, who is the prime suspect in the killing of a woman and two girls in New Lisbon. Thew has not been located since his girlfriend, 33-year-old Elizabeth Kolba, his 12-year-old stepdaughter and the stepdaughter's 13-year-old cousin were found fatally shot at a home in the 300 block of West Bridge Street on Dec. 30. The name of Thew's stepdaughter has not been officially released at this time, but her 13-year-old cousin has been identified as Skyla Sorenson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sorenson's parents spoke with Spectrum News 1 in Wisconsin, with father Jerry saying: "Id like to know why, but I know Ill never get why from you. Youre a coward. Youre my family, and you took something from me. You never should have did that." A GoFundMe has been launched to help pay the costs for Sorenson's funeral, which will be held on Jan. 18 at the New Lisbon Community Center. GoFundMe A service for Kolba will be held on Friday, Jan. 10, with her obituary describing her as having "a ready smile for everyone and hugs to those who needed them." On Monday, the New Lisbon Police Department confirmed the FBI and U.S. Marshal Service are assisting the search for Thew, who is charged with three homicides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The update says that police have found Thew's vehicle but that the 47-year-old remains at large, with his last confirmed location being new Orange Road and McEwan Road in Lisbon Township on New Year's Day. Investigators are trying to determine whether Thew obtained another vehicle. Thew is 5'11" tall, weighing 160 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. Anyone who sees Thew should call 911 and not approach as he is considered armed and dangerous. If you have information or tips related to the case, please contact Juneau County Sheriff's Office dispatch at 608-847-5649. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A new video from the FBI shows how investigators believe the suspect in the deadly New Orleans attack prepared. President Joe Biden and the First Lady were in New Orleans Monday night to honor the 14 killed and dozens injured. They attended a prayer service at the citys famed St. Louis cathedral. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 8 on Your Side The FBI said its working to fill in some of the gaps that went into the planning of this horrible attack. News Channel 8 has learned the suspect made a stop in Tampa in late October for 48 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigative Reporter Brittany Muller spoke with a retired FBI agent who said the FBI is now doing a deep dive to rule out or identify a common denominator, association, and location to see if others were radicalized or sympathized. New video released by the FBI shows what they said is Shamshud Din Jabbar, 42, riding on a bike through the French Quarter recording himself on smart glasses on one of at least two trips to New Orleans in the months before the deadly rampage on New Years Day. Investigators also shared surveillance video of the attacker planting two coolers, on and near Bourbon Street, which they say contained explosive devices. This investigation is crossing state and international borders as our agents follow leads in Houston, Texas Atlanta, Georgia, Tampa, Florida, said Lyonel Myrthil, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge. FBI Tampa said it has information indicating Jabbar traveled to Tampa on Oct. 26 and returned to Houston on Oct. 28. Thats the weekend before Halloween, and one year after a mass shooting in Ybor City. An FBI spokesperson shared this statement with 8 On Your Side: Our Joint Terrorism Task Forces, in concert with our law enforcement partners, is working diligently to account for his whereabouts while he was in our community. To deter another attack, retired FBI agent Peter Yachmetz said, the FBI will collect timely intelligence information about the activities, capabilities, plans, and intentions of various terrorist organizations. Cyber forensic agents conduct deep dives, what we used to call deep dive, combined with the execution of search warrants that they did at his residence, Yachmetz said. They retrace forensic footsteps, all in an effort to determine motivation, acquaintance with each other, perhaps if they met personally or met with radical or terrorist whos on the FBIs radar. Yachmetz called the security plan for the New Orleans celebration a failure. Theyre going through all of his records, all of his cell phone, all of his iPads, his laptops, looking at every shred of every molecule of evidence that they can get, Yachmetz said. If they find anything in the Tampa area, Im sure theyll assign surveillance team to those people to put them under surveillance. 8 On Your Side reached out to the Tampa Police Department, and they shared this statement: The Tampa Police Department has vast experience keeping the public safe during large-scale events, and that mission is only heightened after recent tragedies. As Gasparilla season approaches, we want to reassure the public that security remains our top priority. We will continue our close collaboration with Federal, State, and local law enforcement partners as well as our local event organizers to ensure our ongoing use of best practices and evaluate our comprehensive security plan to keep this a safe and enjoyable event for attendees. Chief Lee Bercaw During Sundays Bucs game against the New Orleans Saints, a moment of silence was held for the 14 victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone in Tampa who may have had contact with him or has information relating to Jabbars visit during that time frame, is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI or visit www.fbi.gov/bourbonstreetattack. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW LISBON, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) The New Lisbon Police Department has reported that many agencies, including the FBI and US Marshall Service, are involved in the search for 47-year-old Virgil Thew. Thew is accused of homicide in the deaths of 33-year-old Elizabeth Kolba and two girls aged 12 and 13. The three of them were found dead in a home on Bridge Street on December 30th. Thew was last seen on New Years Day. Law enforcement has also found the vehicle known to be used by Thew. Authorities say Thew should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, call 9-1-1. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX2548 & WIProud. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (WBTW) A Marion man accused of killing a Pee Dee paramedic and a New Mexico State Police officer in March will appear in federal court later this month for a change of plea hearing, court records show. The hearing for Jaremy Smith is scheduled before Judge James O. Browning on Jan. 17 in U.S. District Court in Albuquerque. Court records show that Smith pleaded not guilty in April to charges of kidnapping resulting in a death; carjacking resulting in a death; using a firearm during the commission of violent crime; being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm; possession of a stolen firearm; and interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle. Timeline: Whats happened so far in the case of slain Pee Dee paramedic Phonesia Machado-Fore Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith had been scheduled to go on trial on Sept. 22, 2025, according to a scheduling order filed in federal court in New Mexico in November. Specific information about a potential plea agreement in the New Mexico case was not immediately available. Smith allegedly killed Officer Justin Hare on March 15 during a roadside ambush on Interstate 40 in New Mexico. That same day, authorities found the body of paramedic Phonesia Machado-Fore outside of Lake View in Dillon County. Officials said Smith was driving a white BMW that belonged to Machado-Fore when Hare stopped to help him along the interstate. Smith also faces 17 separate state charges in Marion County related to Machado-Fores killing. * * * Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Seth Tupper South Dakota Searchlight The federal government approved a 20-year ban Thursday on new mining-related activity in a portion of South Dakotas Black Hills. The ban covers 32 square miles of federally owned land located about 20 miles west of Rapid City. The boundaries encompass the Pactola Reservoir and areas upstream that drain into the reservoir via Rapid Creek. Lilias Jarding, executive director of the Black Hills Clean Water Alliance, hailed the action as an expression of the will of the people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It definitely shows that when people get active in their communities that we can influence what happens, Jarding said. Advocates for the ban rallied against a proposal from Minneapolis-based F3 Gold to conduct exploratory drilling. The projects location is in the Jenney Gulch area of the Black Hills National Forest, within a mile of Pactola Reservoir. The man-made mountain lake is the largest and deepest reservoir in the Black Hills. Its also a popular recreation destination and a drinking-water source for Rapid City and Ellsworth Air Force Base. F3 won draft approval of its drilling plan from local Forest Service officials in 2022. Then, last year, the national offices of the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management announced they were considering a ban on new mining-related activity in the Pactola area. Federal officials conducted a meeting about the proposed ban last year in Rapid City, where public sentiment was overwhelmingly against the drilling project and in favor of the ban. The Black Hills Clean Water Alliance said more than 1,900 people filed written comments on the ban, with 98% in support of it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ban is formally known as a mineral withdrawal, because it withdraws the area from eligibility for new mineral exploration and development. A 20-year ban is the maximum allowed by federal law, although the ban could be renewed after that. Only Congress can enact a permanent ban. Decision comes from Interior Department Interior Secretary Deb Haaland was the decision-maker on the mineral withdrawal, because the departments Bureau of Land Management administers mining claims on federal land. Im proud to take action today to withdraw this area for the next 20 years, to help protect clean drinking water and ensure this special place is protected for future generations, Haaland said in a statement. She also mentioned the areas clean air, its recreational and ecological benefits, and the Black Hills sacred status in the traditional spiritual beliefs of many Great Plains Native American tribes. Haaland is a member of the Pueblo and Laguna tribes in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tom Vilsack, secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which includes the Forest Service, issued a statement praising Haalands decision. The Pactola ReservoirRapid Creek Watershed provides so many benefits to the people and communities we serve, from clean water to world-class recreation, from livestock grazing to the spaces our Tribal communities consider sacred, Vilsack said. F3 Gold did not immediately return a message from South Dakota Searchlight. Jarding said F3s Pactola project is negated by the 20-year ban on new activities. The only exception to that is if someone has already proved there is a mineral reserve, and without drilling, theres no proving theres a mineral resource, Jarding said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company has another exploratory drilling project near Custer, outside of the Pactola ban area. The Custer project has final approval from the Forest Service. Interest in Black Hills gold dates to its 1874 discovery by Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custers Black Hills Expedition. The discovery set off a gold rush that ultimately led to the development of the Homestake Mine near Lead, which was the largest and deepest gold mine in North America prior to its closure in 2001. Today, the only active, large-scale gold mine in the region is the Wharf Mine, also near Lead. Theres a large abandoned gold mine in the Lead area, the Gilt Edge Mine, that is undergoing a massive cleanup and water-treatment project supported by the Environmental Protection Agencys Superfund. Mining industry responds Larry Mann, a retired South Dakota lobbyist who formerly represented F3, said the companys project was treated unfairly. He said exploratory drilling would not damage the Pactola watershed, and that if drilling results justified developing a mine, the proposal would go through a rigorous permitting process that would probably take 10 to 15 years. F3 was willing to go through a lot of different things to accommodate concerns, Mann said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mann wonders if the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump could seek to alter Haalands decision. Whether or not the new administration could do that, Mann expects Trumps pick for secretary of the Interior Department Republican former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to be more supportive of mining on federal land. I think that theres a possibility now with a change of leadership that the pendulum could start swinging the other way, Mann said. An official working for Burgums transition team did not immediately return a message from Searchlight. A spokesperson for the Bureau of Land Management responded by email to Searchlight, saying only that were not going to speculate about decisions of a next Administration. F3 Gold is not a member of the South Dakota Mineral Industries Association, but the association issued a statement Thursday in response to Searchlight questions about the Pactola ban. The statement describes the ban as federal overreach. The association also alleged that the decision conflicts with federal mineral laws and policies and fails to recognize the significance of critical minerals such as antimony, used in batteries that the association said are present in the area covered by the ban. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The secretarys rushed decision on the withdrawal of over 20,000 acres proves this administration is desperate to complete executive actions before the new administration takes over on January 20th, the associations statement said, in part. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas is receiving a $17 million federal grant to support efforts to improve the health outcomes of pregnant women, new mothers and babies. Officials said Arkansas applied for the grant based upon recommendations from the states Strategic Committee for Maternal Health. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders formed the committee in March. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signs executive order aiming to address maternal mortality in Arkansas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 10-year grant is from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services under its Transforming Maternal Health program to several state agencies. Healthy moms means healthy babies, Sanders said. Pursuing this grant was one of the first major recommendations of the Strategic Committee for Maternal Health I convened, and it will facilitate much of the rest of our work to increase the maternal care workforce, invest in technology and research to help new moms, and connect expecting moms with health care providers in all corners of the state. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders outlines focus in proposed budget increase Officials said the grant would target care access, capacity, quality, safety and whole-person care with an emphasis on six particular areas: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Analyzing data to target maternal health services better Educating providers and pregnant women on the benefits of leveraging doulas, community health workers, and midwives. Investing in technology to better serve pregnant women and providers Building better technology infrastructure to collect and share data tied to maternal health measures Redesigning Medicaid reimbursement rates and payment structures, including a focus on incentive payments to providers whose patients have healthier outcomes Improving connections between health care providers and community-based organizations like nonprofits and faith-based groups that also serve low-income Arkansas women Sanders unveils plan to combat Arkansas maternal mortality issue, Democrats argue it does not address real problem The Arkansas Department of Human Services will lead the program in coordination with the state health department and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Republican state Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin continues to pursue litigation in hopes of overturning the results of the November election he lost to incumbent Justice Allison Riggs. (File photos) A federal judge on Monday sent Republican Appeals Court Judge Jefferson Griffins elections case back to state court, which may leave the outcome of his race in the hands of the GOP majority on the North Carolina Supreme Court. A few hours after U.S. District Judge Richard Myers II issued the order, the state Board of Elections and incumbent Democratic Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs filed notice of appeal to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Riggs leads Griffin by 734 votes, but Griffin has filed a series of voter protests. Griffin wants the state Supreme Court, where Republicans hold a 5-2 majority, to throw out more than 60,000 votes on the belief that erasing them will allow him to defeat Riggs. Democrats want to win back the Supreme Court majority by the next round of redistricting in 2031, and holding Riggs seat is an important first step in achieving that goal. After the state Board of Elections rejected his protests last month, Griffin asked the state Supreme Court to step in to stop the board from certifying the election results and toss out the votes hes contesting. The Board of Elections had Griffins petition transferred to federal court, but Myers wrote in an order Monday that none of Griffins challenges necessarily raise an issue of federal law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the votes Griffin wants thrown out are those his campaign claims were cast by people who did not include a drivers license or partial Social Security number on their voter registration applications. People who did not include those numbers on their applications are not legally registered, Republican lawyers have argued. Many of those voters have been voting regularly for years. The Republican Party used the same argument last year in a lawsuit seeking to have more than 225,000 voters purged from the registration rolls or to be forced to cast provisional ballots. Myers partially dismissed that suit. The state Board of Elections written order filed after it rejected Griffins protests says that just because drivers license or partial Social Security numbers didnt show up in the voter registration file doesnt mean voters didnt supply them. A brief filed on behalf of the League of Women Voters of North Carolina and individual voters emphasizes that point. Griffins target list is inaccurate, the brief says, because it fails to account for voters who did not have to supply the information or for data entry errors or database mismatches that resulted when women married and changed their last names. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anne Tindall, one of the lawyers with the Protect Democracy Project representing the League and individual voters, said in an interview last week that the women and non-white voters were overrepresented on the list of 225,000 people Republicans originally wanted purged from the rolls. Those are voters who are more likely to have hyphenated names or names people misspell, she said. No one has come forward with information about any single person on these lists not providing all the information thats requested of them, Tindall said.Data errors, typos, name changes overlay all of it, she said. Myers said in his order he considered the League of Women Voters brief. Voters left incredibly frustrated by Griffins challenges Spring Dawson-McClure is one such voter who supplied a partial Social Security number when she registered that didnt get attached to her file. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She called Griffins challenge mind-blowing and incredibly frustrating. Dawson-McClure is a North Carolina native and Orange County resident who voted for the first time when she was 18. She left the state for graduate school and work and returned in 2012. Ive been voting with the same name and the same Orange County address for 12 years, she said in an interview. Dawson-McClure said she ended up on Griffins list because of a database mismatch between her Social Security number and her married name. Dawson-McClure provided an email she received on Dec. 30 from the Orange County Board of Elections saying that the partial Social Security number she provided didnt match the last name Dawson-McClure and was therefore not attached to her registration. The partial Social Security number matched the last name Dawson, the email said, and now the number is attached to her registration. Other races certified, Dems break GOP supermajority in NC House Three Republican legislative candidates had filed protests with the State Board of Elections that mirrored Griffins, but those challenges have ended and the Democrats in those races are the official winners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Board issued certificates Monday to Democrat Bryan Cohn, who won a House district representing Vance and Granville counties, and to Democrats Terence Everitt, who won a Senate seat representing Granville and northern Wake County, and Woodson Bradley, who will represent a Mecklenburg County Senate district, the Associated Press reported. Cohns victory means that Democrats have broken the Republican veto-proof majority in the House. Republicans hold a 30-20 majority in the Senate. Federal prosecutors who indicted Mayor Adams on corruption charges last year allege they have uncovered additional criminal conduct that the mayor and others engaged in. The prosecutors from the Manhattan U.S. attorneys office wrote in a court filing late Monday they unearthed evidence of the conduct as part of their ongoing investigation into the mayors ties to Turkeys government. The feds didnt elaborate on what the conduct in question is or who the other individuals are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The disclosure comes after the feds in October days after first charging Adams with bribery and other crimes said it was quite likely they would bring a superseding indictment and it was possible it could include additional counts against the mayor. Since then, Adams defense attorney, Alex Spiro, has accused prosecutors of overplaying their hand, writing in a filing last month that the incriminating evidence they planned to base their superseding indictment on does not exist. Mondays filing from the prosecutors came in response to that claim from Spiro and indicates they are still pursuing a potential superseding indictment. Spiro has also argued in court papers that the case against Adams is almost entirely based on testimony from Rana Abbasova, Adams ex-Turkish community liaison who is cooperating in the federal probe. The Adams lawyer has argued Abbasova is a disgruntled staffer with an ax to grind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Mondays filing, the feds pushed back on that characterization. Despite Adamss claim that the case against him is based on a particular purported witness, the affidavits generally rely on records rather than the witnesses, and do not rely on the individual he often discusses at all, prosecutors wrote. Punching back at the feds, Spiro on Tuesday slammed their contentions. This is amateur hour. They are just looking for a headline instead of doing the right thing, Spiro wrote in an email to the Daily News. I assume we are at the point where new Yorkers are not falling for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press conference later in the day at City Hall, Adams reiterated he believes hes innocent when asked about the latest submission from the feds. Even Ray Charles can see whats going on Ive said over and over again, I have done nothing wrong, he told reporters. Mondays move comes at a time of flux for the Manhattan U.S. attorneys office. Former U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, who brought the case against Adams, stepped down last month after President-elect Donald Trump who has publicly entertained pardoning the Democratic mayor for his alleged crimes announced he plans to appoint corporate lawyer Jay Clayton to take over the reins at the prominent office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office is now being led by Edward Kim, who was deputy U.S. attorney under Williams. Adams Sept. 26 indictment, which made him the first New York City mayor in modern history to face criminal charges, alleges he took bribes and illegal campaign cash, mostly from Turkish government operatives, in exchange for doling out political favors. The favors allegedly include the mayor pressuring the FDNY to resolve fire safety issues at the Turkish consulate in Manhattan so the building could open in time for a visit by the countrys leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in fall 2021. Adams has pleaded not guilty and is expected to stand trial in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides Adams, Mohamed Bahi, a former aide to the mayor at City Hall, was indicted in November on charges alleging he obstructed the investigation into the mayor. Hes in talks with the feds about a potential plea deal. Just before Christmas, the feds also revealed Erden Arkan, a Brooklyn construction company executive, plans to plead guilty to funneling illegal straw donations into Adams 2021 campaign coffers on behalf of a Turkish government executive. NEW YORK Federal prosecutors who indicted Mayor Eric Adams on corruption charges last year in a probe of connections to Turkey allege they have uncovered additional criminal conduct in which the mayor and others engaged. The prosecutors from the Manhattan U.S. attorneys office wrote in a court filing late Monday they unearthed evidence of the conduct as part of their ongoing investigation into the mayors ties to Turkeys government. The feds didnt elaborate on what the conduct in question is or who the other individuals are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The disclosure comes after the feds in October days after first charging Adams with bribery and other crimes said it was quite likely they would bring a superseding indictment and it was possible it could include additional counts against the mayor. Since then, Adams defense attorney, Alex Spiro, has accused prosecutors of overplaying their hand, writing in a filing last month that the incriminating evidence they planned to base their superseding indictment on does not exist. Tuesdays filing from the prosecutors came in response to that claim from Spiro and indicates they are still pursuing a potential superseding indictment. Spiro has also argued in court papers that the case against Adams is almost entirely based on testimony from Rana Abbasova, Adams ex-Turkish community liaison who is cooperating in the federal probe. The Adams lawyer has argued Abbasova is a disgruntled staffer with an ax to grind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Mondays filing, the feds pushed back on that characterization, Despite Adamss claim that the case against him is based on a particular purported witness, the affidavits generally rely on records rather than the witnesses, and do not rely on the individual he often discusses at all, prosecutors said, Spiro didnt immediately return a request for comment Tuesday. The latest filing from the feds comes at a time of flux for the Manhattan U.S. attorneys office. Former U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, who brought the case against Adams, stepped down last month after President-elect Donald Trump who has publicly entertained pardoning the Democratic mayor for his alleged crimes announced he plans to appoint corporate lawyer Jay Clayton to take over the reins at the prominent office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office is now being led by Edward Kim, who was deputy U.S, Attorney under Williams. Adams Sept. 26 indictment, which made him the first New York City mayor in modern history to face criminal charges, alleges he took bribes and illegal campaign cash, mostly from Turkish government operatives, in exchange for doling out political favors. The favors allegedly include the mayor pressuring the FDNY to resolve fire safety issues at the Turkish consulate in Manhattan so the building could open in time for a visit by the countrys leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in fall 2021. Adams has pleaded not guilty and is expected to stand trial in April. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides Adams, Mohamed Bahi, a former aide to the mayor at City Hall, was indicted in November on charges alleging he obstructed the investigation into the mayor. Hes in talks with the feds about a potential plea deal. Just before Christmas, the feds also revealed Erden Arkan, a Brooklyn construction company executive, plans to plead guilty to funneling illegal straw donations into Adams 2021 campaign coffers on behalf of a Turkish government executive. Related video: Federal program helps American families pay their energy bills (NEXSTAR) A new rule from the Biden administration could limit the type of water heaters available to consumers in the coming years, posing a potential price hike for some, industry experts claim. The new standards, published the day after Christmas, are meant to reduce costs and various emissions, and lead to a significant conservation of energy, the Department of Energys Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres what to know. What is the new rule? Essentially, the standards call for new tankless (sometimes called instantaneous) gas water heaters to use less energy than the least efficient models currently available, according to the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. The newly manufactured or imported gas water heaters will be required to use technology that wastes less heat which, the group said, more than 60% of new water heaters already do. Others could be pushed toward condensing technology, ASAP projected. Condensing water heaters are better equipped to reach the standards laid out by the DOE, the Washington Free Beacon explains, which could restrict non-condensing water heaters from the market. Should you set your thermostat to emergency heat when weather is very cold? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A DOE spokesperson tells Nexstar that data shows nearly 70% of shipments of tankless gas water heaters today already contain condensing technology. Compliance with the new standards is required by December 26, 2029. Condensing vs. non-condensing gas water heaters Tankless gas water heaters heat water using either a condensing or non-condensing method. The former usually has two heat exchangers while the latter has one, manufacturer Navien explains. Condensing water heaters will use the heat from the exhaust gas it produces (non-condensing models also produce exhaust gas) to heat incoming cold water, generally making them more energy efficient. Video: Where it will cost most to heat your home this winter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Condensing models are often more expensive, larger, and heavier than non-condensing models, Navien says, and require annual maintenance. Does this mean I need a new water heater? No, and this is not a ban on water heaters or a limit on how much you can use your water heater either, the DOE tells Nexstar. Instead, the agency intends to make newly produced tankless gas water heaters that become available for sale in 2029 more efficient. It could help you save some money and reduce environmental impacts, as well. Switching from a less-efficient tankless water heater to a new gas tankless model could save consumers $112 over the products lifetime, the DOE estimated. The agency also estimates that 0.58 quadrillion British thermal units of energy could be saved, or about 1.9% relative to the energy use of these products in the case without amended standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to know if youll get an extra check in January There may be environmental benefits as well. Overall, emissions could be reduced, the DOE reported. Carbon dioxide, in particular, could drop by 32 million metric tons in the three decades after the final rule takes effect, the DOE estimated. Sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions could also be reduced. A small increase in electricity use, could, however, lead to an increase of mercury emissions, equating to about 0.0004 tons. What do the experts say? Some industry experts have applauded the new standards. This is a common sense step that will lower total household costs while reducing planet-warming emissions, Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, said in a statement last month. 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 Water heater manufacturers A.O. Smith, Bradford White, and Rheem all supported the standards, as did a major trade organization that represents such manufacturers, a DOE spokesperson tells Nexstar. The American Gas Association disagreed with the DOEs rule, mainly because it could lead to a lack of non-condensing tankless gas water heaters, which it notes are more affordable. What is HMPV? CDC monitoring reports of spiking cases in China In a statement, Matthew Agen, the AGAs chief counsel on energy, criticized the lack of savings for consumers that the DOE estimated and called its rule unjustifiable on legal and practical grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking with the Free Beacon, Frank Windsor, president of water heater manufacturer Rinnai America, said its the tank water heaters that should be targeted instead of the higher-efficiency tankless models. Every six years, the DOE is expected to revisit the standards regarding appliances like water heaters, HVAC systems, and plumbing products under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. It missed the initial deadline for this particular rule, which was April 2016, but entered into a consent decree that called for the final rule to be issued in December 2024. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the South Lawn of the White House Tuesday, August 9, 2022, prior to signing H.R. 4346, The CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. | Official White House Photo by Erin Scott The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Tuesday that $325 million in direct federal funding had been awarded to Saginaw County-based Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC), which was expected to create approximately 180 permanent manufacturing jobs and over 1,000 construction jobs. The money will be used to construct a new manufacturing facility for HSC, which the department noted was the only U.S.-owned manufacturer of hyper-pure polysilicon and is one of just five companies in the world producing polysilicon to the purity level needed to serve the leading-edge semiconductor market. Michigan state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City, speaks at a rally with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in Flint, Mich., on Nov. 1, 2024. (Photo by Andrew Roth/Michigan Advance) The funding, which was made available through the CHIPS Incentives Programs Funding Opportunity for Commercial Fabrication facilities, was hailed by newly sworn-in U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City), whose 8th District includes the Hemlock plant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This funding is a game changer for mid-Michigan. With it, we are making sure that Michigan will lead the world in manufacturing, and we are creating good-paying jobs for over one thousand hard-working families, said McDonald Rivet. Hemlock Semiconductor has reinforced their commitment to our community with an investment that will pay dividends for generations of Michigan workers. In Congress, I will continue fighting to protect American jobs and make sure that we manufacture more here in Michigan, not China. The money is part of the Biden administrations $53 billion CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, which aimed to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing, supply chains and the innovation economy. U.S. Sens. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Twp.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), both of whom championed the CHIPS Act, also praised the award. Michigan workers are the best in the world. We know how to make things well and with precision, and this major federal investment reflects that expertise, said Peters. Im thrilled that this funding I fought to secure is officially on its way to Hemlock Semiconductor to help expand its production of hyper-pure polysilicon and strengthen our domestic supply chains for critical semiconductor technologies, while creating thousands of good-paying jobs for people in our state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October 2024, the department and Hemlock Semiconductor signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms around the funding. Tuesdays announcement confirms the department has completed their due diligence on the project. Americas self-reliance means bringing our critical supply chains back home from places like China. And semiconductor chips are absolutely critical to Michigans economic security and Americas national security, said Slotkin. This award from the CHIPS Act will allow thousands of mid-Michigan workers to access the middle class, protect our auto industry, and strengthen our domestic supply chains. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX This story was published in conjunction with ProPublica and The Chronicle of Higher Education. The U.S. Department of Education has fined a Michigan college $2.5 million for years of substantial misrepresentation of career outcomes. The department said in a news release Tuesday that its investigation of Baker College found that its misrepresentations could harm students, who may reasonably rely on this information when considering their higher education options and potential outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal review was launched following a joint investigation by ProPublica and the Detroit Free Pressin 2022 that detailed the colleges low graduation rates and the heavy debt that many students shouldered. For decades, the college promoted a near-100% employment rate, which, the investigation found, was based on shaky, self-reported data. The nonprofit college regularly spent more on marketing than on financial aid, and experts identified conflicts of interest in its governance structure. In 2023, the news organizations along with The Chronicle reported on growing financial problems at the institution. A building on the closed Baker College campus in Flint on Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. As part of a settlement, the college agreed to make no misrepresentations in the future, provide the department with its marketing materials for review over a three-year period, and instruct current students and employees about how they can submit complaints or information to the department about alleged misconduct. President Jacqui Spicer said in a statement that the college maintains that it did not commit any misrepresentations and that the settlement contains no admission of wrongdoing. The findings did not assert the College provided false information, as part of our marketing and recruitment data, she said, but rather instances in which our materials had what the DOE viewed as insufficient background or explanation. Baker College is committed to continuous improvement and meeting and exceeding DOEs expectations and has already taken steps consistent with that commitment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: 'Remarkable signs of renewal': Detroit lands on The New York Times' 52 places to go in 2025 More: Trump makes argument for Canada becoming part of US Dan Nowaczyk, a 2016 graduate of Bakers now-closed Flint campus, cheered news of the penalty and settlement. I hope its something that can help their administration take a step back and analyze what went wrong and fix it, said Nowaczyk in a text message. Although theyre being fined for this, I wish that something more was done to help shield the people who were exploited by this false advertising. But I do think its a good step to show that the (Department of Education) takes these things seriously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nowaczyk was among the former students who previously told reporters about their troubling experiences at Baker, including some who didnt realize theyd have to pay back their loans. Another former student said he wished the department had gone further. My first thought is that I am honestly shocked they are allowed to remain open and accredited. If they were able to lie like this before, they will absolutely do it again, said Bart Bechtel in a text message. Baker College graduate Bart Bechtel holds his diploma at home in Essex, Md. A Baker graduate, Bechtel said he took out more than $40,000 in student loans for an online associate degree. My second thought is that it sucks. I still owe $5,000 remaining on a $16,000 loan because of those liars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin, a graduate of Bakers Flint campus who asked that his last name not be used, agreed. This seems like a slap on the wrist, he said. From what I can see, theres no restitution for students, he added. They should be losing accreditation. But thats not up to the Department of Education. Thats up to the Higher Learning Commission, which may very well happen down the road. The HLC is a private accreditation agency that monitors Baker. An HLC representative could not immediately be reached for comment. The original investigation by the news media organizations found that 10 years after enrolling, fewer than half of former Baker students made more than $28,000 a year, the lowest rate among colleges of its kind in Michigan, according to federal data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The settlement comes in the waning days of the Biden administration, which had promised to crack down on deceptive advertising by colleges, particularly around outcomes. Many experts have said they are worried these types of investigations will disappear under the incoming Trump administration. The investigation, conducted by the departments Office of Federal Student Aid, found that: Baker published misleading career-outcome rates on its websites, which gave the false impression that all graduates were represented in the outcomes statistics when it was just a portion of them. Baker advertised in emails that it had an overall 91% career-outcomes rate and that its automotive program had a nearly 96% rate, but Baker didnt say how it reached those calculations or what career outcome meant. Baker included a list of employers on its website that it claimed had hired Baker graduates. But 14 of the more than 100 listed employers had hired those individuals before they started at Baker. Baker misrepresented its graduates earnings, using national data from the U.S. Department of Labor rather than data from its own graduates. Baker published inaccurate data about employment outcomes for students in its culinary programs. This settlement demonstrates the departments ongoing commitment to enforcing higher education laws and regulations and protecting students and taxpayers, the department said in its announcement. In a 2023 message to the campus community, responding to reporting by the news outlets, Baker noted that numerous in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities engage in marketing activities in Michigan; Baker College is not unique. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baker College was founded as a for-profit business college in Flint, before converting to nonprofit status in 1977. It grew rapidly, becoming an early adopter of online learning and opening multiple campuses. It was once the largest private nonprofit college in Michigan. The growth made for a healthy balance sheet. At the end of the 2013-14 academic year, Baker was bringing in $219 million in revenue and had $226 million in expenses. But by the end of the 2022-23 year, revenue was $58 million and expenses were $93 million. From a high of about 45,000 students in 2011-12, enrollment is now about 4,000. Baker, however, still holds an endowment of about $362 million, according to its 2023 tax filing one of the largest of its kind. Given that, Cleamon Moorer Jr., a former administrator and faculty member, wondered about the impact of the fine. $2.5 million, out of a $300 million endowment Im not sure how punitive that is for an organization of its size, he said. Baker is in the midst of a radical shift in its target market, closing campuses in historically industrial places like Flint and Allen Park and building a new one in the more well-off suburb of Royal Oak. A woman crosses the street near the new Baker College campus on South Lafayette Avenue in Royal Oak on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023. Many students said Bakers growth came from deceptive practices and they filed complaints with several agencies, including the Department of Education. About 60 complaints were received by the Federal Trade Commission between 2016 and mid-2023, ProPublica and The Chronicle previously reported. Between January 2021 and June 2023, records from the Department of Education show that 500 borrower-defense applications, claiming deceptive practices, were filed against Baker College, an unusually high number for a nonprofit school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the complaints collected by the FTC in 2022 was one from a student who wrote: Baker College is a supposed nonprofit institution, but they have made false claims about their employability of graduates, finances, and programs. Another wrote: I was lured into a sense that I would be attending a college that valued their students, only to learn that they valued my financial asset to the college and not my education. I feel that I have been deceived and used for their financial gain. David Jesse is a senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education, where he covers college leadership. Contact him at david.jesse@chronicle.com.Anna Clark is a reporter for ProPublica. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Baker College fined $2.5M for deceptive marketing of career outcomes SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Monday was the last day in office for San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas and a handful of elected officials are competing for her seat. After Vargas announced her plans to step down from her post on Dec. 20, San Diego City Councilmember Vivian Moreno was the first to officially announce she would be running to fill Vargas vacancy. PREVIOUS: With Board Chair Nora Vargas ending her term, heres whos vying to replace her Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This position needs a stable figure, a person that is willing to go up to bat for District 1 and a person that has the know-how of how to manage a bureaucracy as large as the county. That person is me, said Moreno during a sit-down interview with KUSI on Friday, Jan. 3. Watch the full interview below. The other candidates for District 1 County Supervisor currently hold public office throughout the South Bay. Chula Vista Mayor John McCann said he was considering running for the position last month. He sat down with KUSI Monday morning to officially declare his candidacy. Im going to respectfully represent Democrats, Republicans, independents altogether. I am definitely someone who is common-sense, and very pro-law enforcement and Im anti-tax, he stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 30, Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre publicly announced her intent to run for the seat vacated by Vargas. South County has been ignored for too long and Im ready to change that, Aguirre stated on her campaign website. Aguirre sat down with KUSI to speak about her candidacy on Sunday, Jan. 5. Last Thursday, Chula Vista Councilmember Carolina Chavez joined the list of names eyeing a seat on the board, as reported by Axios San Diego. On the date of when Vargas announced her decision, Chavez made the following statement on her Instagram and Facebook pages: I want to thank @supnoravargas for her service to our region and her unwavering commitment to our community. Her dedication to uplifting our region and her tireless advocacy for equity and justice has left an indelible mark on San Diego County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vargas, who was the first person of color and Latina to hold elected office on the board, stated in her announcement about her decision to step down that her priority has always been our community, ensuring that everyone can be seen, heard and have a chance to thrive. She said she decided to leave her position based on personal safety and security reasons, but did not explain further. As a Guerrera at my core, I remain committed to continuing the fight for equity, justice, and human rights just in a different capacity, Vargas said in her announcement about leaving her post. I look forward to staying whole-heartedly engaged and active in the pursuit of a more equitable society. Vargas won re-election to the District 1 seat on the board back in November, defeating Republican candidate Alejandro (Alex) Galicia. The board is expected to hold a meeting on Jan. 14 to discuss whether to fill the vacancy by appointment or by calling a special election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The selected supervisor would serve the remainder of Vargas term ending Jan. 8, 2029. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. KSNF/KODE The last of nine suspects convicted in a 2020 kidnapping and murder case will soon learn his fate. Today was the first day of Steven Calverleys sentencing hearing. A judge is expected to determine the sentence tomorrow. In November, a Christian County judge found Calverley guilty of second-degree murder, armed criminal action, first-degree assault, robbery, and kidnapping. Final guilty verdict delivered in Lawrence County kidnapping, murder trial Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those charges are from an incident in 2020 when Calverley and eight other people kidnapped Sarah Pasco and another woman, and forced them down a well in Lawrence County and then shot them. Two more suspects sentenced in death of Lawrence County woman Pasco died, while the other woman played dead until the suspects left. She then crawled out and went for help. The other suspects have all been sentenced for their roles. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (Bloomberg) -- Finland recovered the anchor of Eagle S, the tanker thats detained after damaging undersea cables in the Baltic Sea last month, from the seabed. Most Read from Bloomberg The anchor was raised to the surface on Monday and taken for forensic analysis, the National Bureau of Investigation said in a statement on Tuesday. The events unfolded after Dec. 25, when Eagle S sailed over a subsea power link and four data cables in the Gulf of Finland, damaging the critical infrastructure assets. Finnish authorities have found drag marks likely left by its anchor over a distance of dozens of kilometers on the bottom of the sea, and identified the ship as the culprit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vessel, sailing under the Cook Islands flag, has been identified as a member of the so-called shadow fleet transporting Russian petroleum products, and is now detained at a port in southern Finland. Finland is allowed to keep the ship detained, a court ruled on Friday, while it probes aggravated criminal mischief and aggravated interference of communications. Among other investigations, a Port State Control inspection carried out by the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom is coming to an end, according to a statement on Tuesday. Traficom expects to announce the results of the safety probe as well as any decisions regarding the seaworthiness of the tanker on Wednesday. Traficoms inspection included the vessels technical condition, environmental aspects, documentation as well as the conditions of the crew on board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Finnish telecommunications company Elisa Oyj said it had repaired both of its submarine data cables that were damaged in December. Cinia Oy also said on Tuesday its cable, a high-speed Finland to Germany connection for data centers, was fixed and that it had filed an application to the Helsinki District Court demanding the vessels seizure in order to compensate for the damages. Separately, the Joint Expeditionary Force, a UK-led defense group that also includes Finland and Sweden, has stepped up activity to identify suspicious vessel movements faster, the Swedish government said in a statement on Monday. --With assistance from Christopher Jungstedt and Alastair Reed. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2025 Bloomberg L.P. MANTEO, N.C. (WNCN) A fire broke out at a building next to a lighthouse on North Carolinas Outer Banks Tuesday. According to the National Park Service, which operates Cape Hatteras National Seashore, smoke was seen inside Bodie Island Double Keepers Quarters around noon. Staff from Eastern National, who operates the buildings retail store, called 911. The Nags Head Fire Department was the first to arrive on scene and reported smoke coming from the buildings four chimneys. NPS said the fire was eventually extinguished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone evacuated the building safely and no injuries were reported, according to NPS. The extent of the internal damage to the Double Keepers Quarters is being evaluated by Cape Hatteras National Seashore. They, along with the Nags Head Fire Department, are also investigating the incident. Due to damage from the fire and potential needed repairs, the NPS said the Bodie Island Double Keepers Quarters is closed indefinitely. In addition to the Nags Head Fire Department, the Roanoke Island Volunteer Fire Department, Kill Devil Hills Fire Department and Colington Fire Department responded to the incident, as did the Dare County Emergency Medical Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cape Hatteras National Seashore is grateful for the timely response to this afternoons fire by multiple local fire departments, said David Hallac, superintendent of the National Parks of Eastern North Carolina. Their efforts minimized damages to this historic structure. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. Firefighters in Colton rushed to a blaze in the Santa Ana riverbed Tuesday morning as some of the strongest winds in years pushed through Southern California. The fire was reported around 5 a.m. near Riverside Avenue and had burned about 1 acre when firefighters arrived. A fire erupts in the Santa Ana River on Jan. 7, 2024. (OnScene.TV) Video showed the blaze started in a homeless encampment and was burning makeshift structures and other personal items as small trees were blowing in the wind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least one RV and several other vehicles appeared to have been destroyed in the blaze which crews were concerned could spread to 20 acres or more, freelance media firm OnScene.TV reported. No injuries were reported in the fire. The fire sparked as Southern California braces for what officials have described as a life-threatening, extreme and destructive wind event that is expected to last into Thursday. 100-mph wind, fire danger, rain and snow in bizarre Southern California forecast (National Weather Service) The National Weather Service is issuing red flag warnings for much of Southern California on Tuesday and Wednesday due to concerns that a small spark could turn into an out-of-control wildfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No official cause of the fire has been determined. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) Local fire departments are reminding residents to heat their homes safely to avoid a fire as temperatures dip into the teens overnight this week. Fire officials say to make sure that the area around space heaters, fireplaces, and stoves is clear three feet in all directions and away from furniture and any other flammable items. They also advise to always use a fireplace screen or keep the stove door closed while burning. Once they are cool, dispose of the ashes into a metal bucket with a lid outside about 10 feet from a building. Lastly, make sure to turn a space heater off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the biggest dangers of using a space heater is using an extension chord with it, says Agawam Fire Chief Frank Matuszczak. Extension chords are not rated to deal with the kind of current that a space heater draws and thats a huge fire risk so we only recommend using space heaters that are UL approved, and use a space heater using the actual outlet. The Agawam Fire Department strongly urges everyone to make sure that both their Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms are working, and are on every level of their home. 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. PARMA, Ohio (WJW) A Monday fire at a Broadview Road nursing home was contained by the buildings sprinkler system, according to Parma firefighters. No one was injured. Firefighters responded at about 5 p.m. on Monday to a report of smoke and a possible fire at Parma Care Center, 5553 Broadview Road, a nursing home and rehabilitation center with 96 beds, according to a Monday news release from Fire Chief Mike Lasky. Wayne Dawson shares update after surgery and chemo therapy They found the fire in the basement, kept under control by sprinklers. Firefighters then fully extinguished the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one was hurt or displaced by the fire. Looking for cheaper eggs in the new year? Heres whats behind soaring prices in Cleveland This incident is a great example of well maintained as well as regularly inspected fire suppression and alarm systems working properly to mitigate the risk of fire spread, reads the release. The cause of the fire 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 Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Mondays weather conditions caused minor complications for crews as they battled a house fire in Southwest Oklahoma City. Oklahoma City fire crews rushed to a burning home near SW 15 Street and Morgan Road around 7 a.m. Obviously its windy and cold this morning, said OKCFD District Chief DJ Harris. When we got on scene there was heavy visible fire and smoke and it was being pushed by the wind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fortunately, the flames did not spread to any nearby homes and all the residents inside the house safely escaped. LOCAL NEWS: Oklahoma to go over 100 hours below freezing However, Harris said the water crews used to knock down the flames quickly turned into ice. Ice developing on the streets and the driveway. We did have some firefighters that were slipping around and sliding, said Harris. We just tried to take it easy and we carried ice melt on our rigs and we were able to help that situation. What sparked the fire is still under investigation. Crews also said its still too early to know how much the damage will cost. 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. Twelve fire companies were sent to battle a large-scale fire that erupted in a boarded-up commercial building in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday. The Greater Alarm blaze was reported around 6 a.m. at the two-story building located on West Pico Boulevard near South Hope Street. Firefighters respond to a Greater Alarm blaze in downtown Los Angeles on Jan. 7, 2024. (KTLA) The fire appears to have breached a dividing wall and is extending into the adjacent, exposed building, the Los Angeles Fire Department stated in an update at 6:36 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 30 minutes later, the Fire Department said that crews continued to make good progress and that the fire was contained to the initial location. There is no extension into the adjacent units, the Fire Department stated. The fire was eventually extinguished by nearly 100 firefighters after 1 hour and 19 minutes. No injuries were reported in the blaze. The cause of the fire remains 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 KTLA. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Illegal fireworks near Punchbowl herald the arrival of 2022. The Department of Law Enforcement is holding a fireworks amnesty event at Aloha Stadium this Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Illegal fireworks near Punchbowl herald the arrival of 2022. The Department of Law Enforcement is holding a fireworks amnesty event at Aloha Stadium this Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. The Department of Law Enforcement is holding a fireworks amnesty event at Aloha Stadium this Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DLE says all fireworks will be safely disposed of, with no questions asked. Recent events have clearly illustrated just how dangerous illegal fireworks can be, said Gov. Josh Green in a news release. Out of respect to those weve lost in the Aliamanu incident, I am strongly encouraging everyone to take a pause on fireworks activities, and I am asking everyone with unused fireworks to please bring them to Aloha Stadium this Saturday. Officials say it is dangerous to store fireworks at home as they can ignite, start a fire and injure people. Furthermore, fireworks should be properly disposed of, and not thrown away in everyday household rubbish as they can injure garbage collectors, contaminate the environment or create other dangerous situations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A state amnesty event for fireworks held last year netted of illegal and unwanted fireworks. 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. Honolulu Fire Chief Sheldon K. Hao, said, Our first responders have witnessed the tragic consequences of illegal fireworks use. To ensure public safety, we can no longer ignore or diminish the serious and deadly dangers associated with illegal fireworks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please protect the people you love by letting us take unwanted fireworks off your hands, said DLE Director Jordan Lowe in the release. We ask that you put your fireworks in the trunk of your car or bed of your truck and bring them to the stadium. You wont even have to get out of your car. Just pop the trunk. Well grab the fireworks and youll be on your way to a safer tomorrow. No questions asked. Those arriving at Aloha Stadium for the event should enter the lower Halawa parking lot through the lower Salt Lake Boulevard entrance at gate No. 4. The amnesty event is hosted by DLE, the Hawai i Department of the Attorney General, the Honolulu Police and Fire Departments, Honolulu Emergency Medical Services, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 0 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . Bird flu has claimed its first human in the United States, but health officials say the risk remains low and there are precautions to stay safe. They also say theyre vigilantly monitoring for signs that the risk is growing. The death occurred in Louisiana to an individual who was older than 65. While no demographic information other than age was given, health officials said that individual had underlying medical problems and had been in direct contact with a backyard flock of birds that were ill. He or she suffered severe respiratory symptoms and was hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that sequencing of two samples of the avian influenza virus taken from the upper respiratory tract of that person were compared to samples previously taken from dairy cows, wild birds, poultry and other human cases of H5N1 avian influenza in the U.S. and Canada. The sample indicated that the virus mutated in the patient after infection, possibly making the illness more severe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite that, the CDC report said that the public health agency still believes the risk to the general public associated with the ongoing U.S. bird flu outbreak has not changed and remains low. The detection of a severe human case with genetic changes in a clinical specimen underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments. Not the first human U.S. case There have been 66 reported cases of bird flu in the U.S. all but this one with symptoms that were mild, per the CDC. The majority of cases have involved farmworkers who had direct contact with infected dairy cows or poultry. Symptoms have typically been conjunctivitis, which is sometimes called pink eye, or manageable respiratory symptoms. Besides Louisianas single deadly case, human bird flu infections have also been reported in California (37 cases), Colorado (10), Iowa (1), Michigan (2), Missouri (1), Oregon (1), Texas (1), Washington (11) and Wisconsin (1), according to the CDC. All but two cases arose from known exposure to infected animals. The public health agency said its using its flu tracking systems to look for signs of H5 bird flu in people. This colorized electron microscope image released by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on March 26, 2024, shows avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (yellow), grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells (blue). | Centers for Disease Control via Associated Press The risk is low in part because there have been no known transmissions of bird flu from a person who had it to another person, the CDC said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michael Osterholm, a University of Minnesota infectious disease researcher, explained to The Associated Press how that transmission can occur. To enter a cell, the virus needs to have a key that turns the lock, he said. Mutations mean that its possible the key could change enough to do so, so health officials are very watchful. But theres no evidence that key has yet been forged. Is this an indication that we may be closer to seeing a readily transmitted virus between people? No, Osterholm told AP. Right now, this is a key that sits in the lock, but it doesnt open the door. The patient who died and a Canadian girl who was very sick but recovered had a similar mutation, according to The New York Times. Both patients carried a version of the virus that is circulating in wild birds, distinct from the one causing the outbreak in dairy cattle, the article reported. H5N1 has been circulating in wild birds for several years and in dairy cattle for about a year. The outbreak has shown no signs of abating, affecting more than 900 herds in 16 states. The virus has also spread from dairy farms to poultry farms, and remains widespread in wild birds, per the Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Efforts are underway to create a vaccine for bird flu, but officials warn that the regular influenza vaccine does not protect against the avian variety. Take simple precautions The spread of H5N1 bird flu among, first, wild birds and animals that came in contact with them, then into dairy cow herds, has garnered headlines for months. The growing prevalence of exposures puts humans at some risk. But there are precautions people can take to stay safe, according to health experts. DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) The first international commercial flight since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad landed Tuesday at the Damascus airport. The Qatar Airways flight landed at Damascus International Airport, greeted by the passengers' relatives and friends inside a terminal building. Ashad al-Suleibi, head of Syrias Air Transport Authority, said Qatar had provided assistance in rehabilitating the airport, which had suffered from years of neglect as well as sustaining damages from periodic Israeli airstrikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honestly, there was a lot of damage from the (Assad) regime to this lively area and this lively airport and also the Aleppo airport, he said. Many passengers were Syrian nationals coming come for the first time in more than a decade. Osama Musalama, who came from the United States, said it was his first visit since before the civil war that started in 2011. I lost hope that I would come back to Syria, he said. We were waiting for this moment and lost hope, but thank God now the country is back to its people. Separately, Jordanian state-run Petra news agency reported that a Royal Jordanian Airlines plane departed for Damascus on a test flight. The head of Jordan's Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission, Capt. Haitham Misto, who was on board the flight with a team of specialists, said that the aim was to evaluate the technical condition of Damascus airport before resuming regular flights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the lightning rebel offensive that unseated Assad a month ago, Arab and Western countries that had cut off relations with the former government have been reopening diplomatic relations with Syrias new de facto authorities, headed by the Islamist former insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS. Syrias new foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, has traveled to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in recent days. The Gulf countries are likely to be key to funding Syrias reconstruction after nearly 14 years of civil war that preceded Assad's ouster. On Tuesday, al-Shibani traveled to Jordan to meet with his counterpart in Amman. Jordan's foreign ministry said the officials were set to discuss mechanisms of cooperation in many areas including borders, security, energy, transportation, water, trade and other vital sectors. Under Assad's rule, Jordan had been a main conduit for smuggling highly addictive Captagon amphetamines produced in Syria into Gulf states, which was a point of tension between the two countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syria's new authorities have made a show of cracking down on the Captagon trade, dismantling former factories in locations including the Mazzeh air base in Damascus, a car trading company in Latakia and a factory that once made snack chips in the Damascus suburb of Douma. The new situation in Syria has also ended the threats that previously threatened the security of the Kingdom (of Jordan), with regard to drugs and Captagon, and we pledge that this thing has ended and will not return again," al-Shibani said in a joint news conference with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi. Al-Safadi said that his country supports the Syrian people as they work to rebuild their homeland on the foundations that preserve its security, stability, sovereignty and unity and fulfill the rights of its people, adding that Jordan is ready to provide electricity to our brothers immediately, and we are also ready to work together to provide gas. Syria, targeted by stringent Western sanctions, has been in a prolonged economic crisis and Syrians receive only a few hours of state-provided electricity per day. ___ Omar Akour reported from Amman, Jordan. Abby Sewell contributed to this report from Beirut. Christianity Today Receives $5 Million Grant to Support Next Generation Storytelling NEWS PROVIDED BY Christianity Today Jan. 7, 2025 WHEATON, Ill., Jan. 7, 2025 /Standard Newswire/ -- Christianity Today has received a grant of $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life. The grant will support Christianity Todays Next Generation Storytelling Project through 2028 as part of the ministrys Next Gen Initiative, one of three strategic initiatives of the nonprofit ministrys One Kingdom Campaign. The purpose of the One Kingdom Campaign is to equip Christianity Today to reach younger, more diverse, and more global audiences with a capacious biblical vision of what it means to follow Jesus Christ in our time. The Next Gen Initiative is the portion of the One Kingdom Campaign vision that invests in next-generation storytellers and expands the ministrys work into new media. Nicole Martin, Christianity Todays Chief Operating Officer, says the grant promises to be transformational: Storytelling is the language of the next generation. Its also the heartbeat of our mission here at CT. This grant will help us incubate the stories that matter most to younger people and accelerate our core mission. The initiative is not just about us; its about helping everyone in our reach know and love the ultimate story of Gods redeeming grace through Jesus Christ. CTs President and CEO, Timothy Dalrymple, adds, "Telling the stories of the church, and reflecting on those stories together, is central to our calling. This grant will enable us to expand our storytelling efforts by and for the next generation. Christianity Today received its first gift from Lilly Endowment in 1965 and numerous gifts in the 1970s and 1990s. More recently, in 2016, it received a grant for the development of technology and fundraising infrastructure, called Creating a Future for Christian Thought Journalism. Lilly Endowment also supported the production of resources to encourage and support preachers and pastors through sub-brands such as Preaching Today and Church Salary. The aim of Lilly Endowments National Initiative on Christian Faith and Life is to help organizations identify, produce and share with a wide variety of audiences compelling stories that portray the vibrancy and hope of Christian faith and life. Christianity Today is one of 12 organizations from evangelical, Mainline Protestant, and Catholic backgrounds to receive grants through the invitational round of the initiative. Other recipients include media organizations, denominational judicatories, church networks, publishers, educational institutions, congregations, and marketplace ministries. With the completion of the invitational round, Lilly Endowment has opened a competitive round for funding in the same program. Dalrymple adds, This storytelling initiative recognizes the importance of lifting up examples of Christian faith that is lived out in beautiful, faithful, self-sacrificial ways. Since this is core to the CT community, we are thrilled to be a part of this storytelling initiative. We look forward to bringing forward more events, more multimedia projects, and more next-generation Christian storytellers as a result of this initiative in 2025 and beyond. About Lilly Endowment Inc. Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion and maintains a special commitment to its founders hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana. A primary aim of its grantmaking in religion is to deepen the religious lives of Christians, principally by supporting efforts that enhance congregational vitality and strengthen the leadership of Christian communities. The Endowment values the broad diversity of Christian traditions and endeavors to support them in a wide variety of contexts. The Endowment also seeks to foster public understanding about religion by encouraging fair, accurate and balanced portrayals of the positive and negative effects of religion on the world and lifting up the contributions that people of all faiths make to our greater civic well-being. About Christianity Today Reaching 40 million people across the world annually through a variety of acclaimed and award-winning digital and print media, Christianity Today elevates the stories and ideas of the kingdom of God with a vision of a Church more faithful to Christ and the world more drawn to him. Learn about the next season of ministry for CT through its One Kingdom Campaign at www.seekthekingdom.com. SOURCE Christianity Today CONTACT: Cory Whitehead, Vice President of Mission Advancement, 630-384-7223, cwhitehead@christianitytoday.com Miles Morrisseau ICT The sudden announcement this week that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is stepping down brought mixed reactions from Indigenous leaders praise for the promises he has kept but concerns about the ones that have yet to be worked out. The announcement that he would leave office once a new leader of the Liberal Party is chosen puts an end to nearly 10 years of service that began with an early pledge to work closely with the Indigenous peoples of Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUPPORT INDIGENOUS JOURNALISM. CONTRIBUTE TODAY. No relationship is more important to me and to Canada than the one with First Nations, Metis Nation and Inuit People, he said during his first term. Trudeau, 53, asked that Parliament be put on temporary hiatus, known as proroguing, until March 24, to give the Liberal Party time to select a new leader. It is still unknown when the next election will take place, although it likely will come soon after Parliament returns. Indigenous leaders said his departure raises concerns about issues that remain unresolved. Related: Justin Trudeau announces resignation as Canadian prime minister His leadership brought attention to longstanding challenges and resulted in important progress in areas such as clean water, housing, education, and child welfare, said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations. The passing of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act was a milestone in aligning Canadian law with the rights and self-determination of First Nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodhouse Nepinak noted, however, that there is much work left undone, specifically in the areas of child welfare and safe drinking water. We have not yet received a commitment from the federal government to seek a new mandate to negotiate long-term reform of First Nations Child and Family Services, which we have repeatedly sought, she said. We also await the tabling and Royal Assent of Bill C-61, the First Nations Clean Water Act, which is urgently needed to ensure First Nations basic human right of access to safe drinking water is upheld and respected. Also unresolved are self-governance agreements worked out with the Manitoba Metis Federation, the Metis Nation of Alberta and the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan. The agreements are now stalled and will fall under the purview of the next government. Calls for resignation Trudeau announced on Monday, Jan. 6, that he would resign as Prime Minister and from his role as leader of the Liberal Party, citing internal battles. The decision had been anticipated after members of his party began to openly call for his resignation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There had been rumblings of discontent, but the fight officially became public when Trudeaus right hand, Chrystia Freeland, stepped down Dec. 17 from the Liberal Caucus and her role as Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister. In a statement, Freeland noted that the threat of a tariff war with the incoming U.S. president, Donald Trump, was the reason she quit. Our country is facing a grave challenge, Freeland stated. That means keeping our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war. His departure will bring a familiar end to a Trudeau administration. His father, Pierre Trudeau, was elected prime minister in 1966 with the help of a Beatles-inspired youth movement dubbed Trudeaumania. Pierre Trudeau served as prime minister for more than 15 years until he stepped down amid low polling numbers and internal revolt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The younger Trudeau came to power in 2015 offering a similar fresh-faced enthusiasm to a party that had been losing to the conservatives for nearly a decade. He brought the Liberals back to power and they basked in the glory of their new leader's charisma and sunny ways. One of his first moves to demonstrate his commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples was to appoint Jody Wilson-Raybould, We Wai Kai Nation, to the position of Minister of Justice and Attorney General, a first for an Indigenous person. That relationship would end in scandal, however, with the Canadian Ethics Commissioner ruling that Trudeau improperly influenced Raybould during a criminal case involving Quebec-based construction company, SNC-Lavalin. Raybould was removed from caucus, and she later resigned from the party to sit as an independent. Raybould took to X, formerly known as Twitter, soon after Trudeau resigned and offered a backhanded compliment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PM did not sound like he wanted to go & was sadly not too gracious, but he is going. I thank him for his service. Raybould posted, And nowwe can finally turn the page. An emotional address The prime minister spoke to the country in a live broadcast outside of his official residence, known as Rideau Cottage, in Ottawa. Every morning Ive woken up as prime minister, I have been inspired by the resilience, the generosity and the determination of Canadians, said an emotional Trudeau. 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. 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. Before announcing his retirement, the prime minister met with Governor General Mary Simon, the King of Englands official representative from Canada, to request that the government be prorogued for the next three months. Simon, Inuk, is the first Indigenous person to hold the governor general position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 of his lame-duck government. 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 admitted that it was the internal divisions that led to his decision. 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, he said. Mixed reaction The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs released a statement regarding the proroguing of the government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Parliamentary break until March 2025 raises concerns about delays in addressing urgent First Nations issues, the chiefs said in a statement. We urge the federal government to ensure uninterrupted support and services during this transition. Funding and Ministerial/departmental support should continue during these next 2.5 months. David Chartrand, president of the Manitoba Metis Federation, offered high praise to the outgoing prime minister. To Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on behalf of my people, I thank you for your unprecedented contributions to reconciliation with us, and for your steadfast determination and vision to guide us toward a better Canada, Chartrand said. The individual who undertakes to lead Canada next will have big shoes to fill and should never ignore the rich legacy of Justin Trudeau. Our stories are worth telling. Our stories are worth sharing. Our stories are worth your support. Contribute today to help ICT carry out its critical mission. Sign up for ICTs free newsletter. On Monday, the Louisiana Department of Health reported that a patient with a severe case of bird flu, caused by the H5N1 virus, had died from their infection, a first for the United States. The deceased was over age 65 and was reported to have underlying medical conditions. Even before the patient died, their case made headlines for several reasons: bird flu is raging across North America, swamping dairy and poultry farms and causing at least 66 human infections. But most of these cases, with the exception of three, have not been severe i.e. they havent warranted hospitalization or caused death. Historically, bird flu has been a nasty bug to catch. Since it was first documented in the 90s, it has generally had a 50% mortality rate far higher than something like COVID-19, with a death rate of around 2% to 3% at its peak or seasonal influenza, which has an average death rate of about 0.1% for most adults. But despite H5N1s reputation as a killer in other countries, no patients in the U.S. have died, until now. Public health experts have long warned that H5N1 has extreme pandemic potential, but so far, the risk to the general public remains low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the egg and chicken industry has been straining under bird flu outbreaks for several years, last April, bird flu made the jump from wild birds to dairy cows. Since then, it has jumped to farmworkers several dozen times, while also infecting people from poultry farms and, in rare cases, wild birds. The Louisiana patient reportedly contracted H5N1 after exposure to a combination of a backyard flock and wild birds. While so far there has been no hard evidence of human-to-human transmission a key factor in these outbreaks turning into a pandemic each infection in humans gives the virus more opportunity to mutate and evolve genetics that make it easier for it to spread. Indeed, testing revealed that the Louisiana patient possessed concerning viral mutations that are associated with being more infectious, according to a CDC report released in December. Similarly, a teenager in British Columbia, Canada who contracted bird flu was hospitalized and put on life support after coming into contact with wild birds. According to a recent analysis in the New England Journal of Medicine, the teens virus also had mutations that would allow H5N1 to more easily infect and reproduce in the respiratory system. Such infections can be more easily spread by coughing or breathing, which is pure pandemic fuel. Every infection, especially severe cases, is a reminder that H5N1 influenza has been and continues to be a dangerous virus, Dr. James Lawler, a director of the University of Nebraskas Global Center for Health Security, told the New York Times, adding, The more widely the virus circulates, particularly infections in humans and other mammals, the higher the risk that the virus will acquire mutations that adapt the virus for human disease and transmission. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. And the virus shows no signs of slowing down. Also on Monday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, specifically their Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, confirmed more H5N1 avian flu outbreaks in poultry in five states, three involving commercial farms. APHIS also reported 10 more infections in domestic cats, which follows other cat infections reported after they consumed raw pet food. Many of the cats did not survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced $306 million in funding to continue surveilling the virus as it spreads. For example, the funds will increase the number of tests and provide outreach to high-risk populations, such as livestock workers. While the risk to humans remains low, we are always preparing for any possible scenario that could arise. These investments are critical to continuing our disease surveillance, laboratory testing, and monitoring efforts alongside our partners at USDA, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement. Preparedness is the key to keeping Americans healthy and our country safe. We will continue to ensure our response is strong, well equipped, and ready for whatever is needed. While some bird flu vaccines have been developed, they aren't currently approved for use in humans in the U.S. Multiple pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, Moderna and GlaxoSmithKline are racing to develop new H5N1 vaccines. With only a few weeks before Trump becomes president again, many are worried how this crisis will be handled or if it will be a mangled public health response like the COVID pandemic. Bird flu, also known as avian influenza or H5N1, has infected more than 130 million birds over the past two years as it threatened commercial bird operations and recently led to the first human death in the United States. While it's highly contagious among birds, the virus has difficulty finding a human host. The risk to humans is low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People infected by the virus usually experience mild symptoms. There is still a danger, however: a person in Louisiana recently became the first person in the country to die from H5N1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana health officials said the patient was over the age of 65 and had underlying medical conditions. They contracted bird flu after exposure to a personal backyard flock and also wild birds. Where has bird flu been found in the United States? Since 2022, epidemiologists have found sick birds in every U.S. state. That includes reports of avian influenza in 11 Oklahoma counties, mostly in the eastern part of the state where poultry farms are more common. The most recent report in Oklahoma came from Adair County commercial turkey farms. According to the CDC, the two flocks included 130,000 birds. Why are eggs so expensive? Bird flu. If you're having trouble finding eggs or have noticed the price of a dozen eggs skyrocket this year, much of the blame can be put on bird flu. The average cost of a dozen Grade A large eggs was $3.65 in November, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's up from $2.50 at the beginning of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When bird flu is detected in a commercial operation, the federal government requires all birds be destroyed. Farmers are compensated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for their losses. The virus spreads quickly inside poultry farms, and wild birds are a common vector for the virus to travel around the world. Is bird flu contagious in humans and other animals? While it's possible for bird flu to jump from a bird to a human, there is no evidence that it can pass between two people. There have been dozens of human cases of bird flu in 2024, and most of the those people worked at either a poultry farm or dairy cattle operation. Dairy herds were impacted in 2024 as the virus spread among cows. This new threat warranted action by the federal government to test all dairy cattle moving across state lines and requiring states to test milk for signs of the virus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avian influenza also poses a threat to felines. A wild cat sanctuary in Washington lost 40 bobcats, cougars and other wild cats in December. Earlier that month, an Arizona zoo reported the deaths of half a dozen animals including a cheetah. How to avoid bird flu The CDC recommends that you should avoid contact with wild birds, their droppings and surfaces where they congregate. If you find a sick or dead bird, don't touch it but instead report it to the appropriate authorities in state or federal government. You can also make a report to the USDA toll-free at 1-866-536-7593. Because of the threat bird flu poses to dairy cattle, the CDC also recommends people avoid "raw" milk that may contain dangerous pathogens. Pasteurization kills bacteria and viruses. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: First US bird flu death reported: What to know in Oklahoma BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) confirmed the first U.S. human death from bird flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or H5N1. The patient, over the age of 65 with underlying health conditions, contracted the virus after exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. LDH reported that the patient was hospitalized before succumbing to the virus. An extensive public health investigation has found no evidence of person-to-person transmission and no additional H5N1 cases in Louisiana. The department expressed condolences to the patients family and stated this will be the final update regarding the individual due to confidentiality and respect for the family. Public Health Risk Health officials reiterated that the general publics risk of contracting H5N1 remains low. However, people who work with birds, poultry, or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, may face a higher risk. LDHs Guidelines for Protection To minimize the risk of H5N1 infection, LDH suggests the following precautions: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avoid contact with sick or dead animals or their droppings. Do not bring sick wild animals into your home. Keep pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces. Properly cook poultry, eggs, and other animal products to prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked food. Avoid unpasteurized products such as raw milk or cheese from infected animals. Workers on poultry or dairy farms should get seasonal flu vaccinations to reduce the risk of co-infection with bird flu and other flu viruses. Symptoms to Watch Those exposed to sick or dead birds should monitor for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis. If symptoms develop within 10 days of exposure, LDH advises contacting a healthcare provider and staying home to avoid spreading the illness. For concerns about dead or sick birds, residents are encouraged to report them to the USDA at 1-866-536-7593 or the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab at 318-927-3441. 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 BRProud.com. BATON ROUGE, La. (WVLA) The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) confirmed the first U.S. human death from bird flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or H5N1. The patient, who has not been identified, was over the age of 65 and had underlying health conditions. Health officials previously confirmed the person had contracted the virus after exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. The individual had been hospitalized before their death, Louisiana health officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An extensive public health investigation has found no evidence of person-to-person transmission and no additional H5N1 cases in Louisiana. Bird flu virus in Louisiana patient likely mutated to be more transmissible, CDC says The department expressed condolences to the patients family and stated this will be the final update regarding the individual due to confidentiality and respect for the family. In December, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention determined this case was the first severe bird flu illness among humans. They also said a genetic analysis had suggested the bird flu virus had mutated inside the patient, which could have led to the more severe illness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since March, 66 confirmed bird flu infections have been reported in the U.S., 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 caught it. Still, health officials have reiterated that the general publics risk of contracting H5N1 remains low. However, people who work with birds, poultry, or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, may face a higher risk. Bird flu symptoms: Online searches spike after first severe case in US To minimize the risk of H5N1 infection, LDH suggests the following precautions: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avoid contact with sick or dead animals or their droppings. Do not bring sick wild animals into your home. Keep pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces. Properly cook poultry, eggs, and other animal products to prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked food. Avoid unpasteurized products such as raw milk or cheese from infected animals. Workers on poultry or dairy farms should get seasonal flu vaccinations to reduce the risk of co-infection with bird flu and other flu viruses. Those exposed to sick or dead birds should monitor for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis. If symptoms develop within 10 days of exposure, LDH advises contacting a health care provider and staying home to avoid spreading the illness. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A place for military families to stay at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base while a loved one is staying in the hospital has officially reopened. The 88th Air Base Wing posted to social media Tuesday announcing the official reopening of Wright-Patts Fisher House. The Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military and veteran families can stay free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital, said the Wing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Col. Travis Pond, deputy commander at the 88th Air Base Wing, participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the event: Fisher House Reopening | 88th Air Base Wing Fisher House Reopening | 88th Air Base Wing Fisher House Reopening | 88th Air Base Wing Fisher House Reopening | 88th Air Base Wing To learn more about the Fisher House, 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. Australian shore fishermen aiming to catch something for the freezer instead landed an 11.5-foot tiger shark, then cheerfully posed for photos before releasing it. They probably werent expecting the fallout from the catch and release, but they got an earful as their actions prompted online outrage and a rebuke from a marine biologist. It also got a politician in hot water. Zach Hanning, Luke Williamson and Natalie Schutte were fishing on the beach at Lakes Entrance in Gippsland, Victoria, on Friday when something big took a bait, as reported by Today on 9Now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pretty much from the get-go, I knew it was a shark, Hanning told Today. Hanning put on a harness, grabbed the rod and began a tug-of-war that went on for 90 minutes before landing the tiger shark on the beach. "Over the years we have heard of the odd tiger shark getting caught down here, but it's definitely not something we were targeting," Hanning said. "We were just down there to have a fish and enjoy the beach on a warm day, maybe catch a bronze whaler or something for the freezer." Photos of the shark with one of the fishermen sitting on it were posted on Facebook by MAD Outdoors Sale. Darren Chester, who is a member of the Australian House of Representatives for Gippsland in Victoria, called the catch a beauty in his Facebook post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What a beauty a 12ft tiger shark caught and released this morning on the 90 Mile Beach.Pix credit: MAD Outdoors Sale#lovegippsland Posted by Darren Chester MP on Friday, January 3, 2025 Chesters post did not go over well. Shame on the MP for promoting this infantile behavior, Mark Sewell wrote. No benefit to anyone to catch and release a tiger shark, but fair risk of damage to one party or the other. Would no longer get my vote. To which Chester replied, Shame on the MP thanks Mark, everyone enjoys a good dose of sanctimony to start the New Year. Pretty sure I would never have your vote! Others chimed in: If you respect the creatures you DONT sit on them. It's not a carnival ride, you treat that animal with respect!! Why sit on it? Mounting a shark for a pic is not cool. You don't have any clue what damage you could be doing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also on FTW Outdoors: Girls record blue catfish sparks controversy; criticism appalls her mother Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist and a spokesman for Humane Society International, talked about the possible damage to the shark. His biggest concern is when fishermen sit on them for photos. When you pull an animal out of the water whose body has evolved to always be buoyant, it can lead to internal injuries organ crushing, Chlebeck told Yahoo News Australia. These are the types of things that kill beached whales and dolphins and its a very traumatic experienceIf youre adding weight on top of that, youre just making things worse. Meanwhile, many of the comments on MAD Outdoors Sales post were positive in nature, though not all. A sampling: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What a beautiful looking shark! Well done on the catch and release." Animal Cruelty. How would you like to be treated like it? "Great catch and great photos." Terrible behavior. Disgrace. Only [expletives] would jump on the back. "Great job boys." There were several other defenders of the catch (if not the sitting on the shark). People have been hunting fish since the beginning of time, one commenter wrote. Its part of many cultures as well. You going to stop that? Get off your high horses. Most of you probably eat fish and chips and don't think twice about where your food came from. Im sure this tiger swam away healthy. Many [fishermen] are also in tagging programs so fish can be tracked and protected for future generations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most likely, there will never be total agreement on the issue, except perhaps for the disdain about sitting on the shark. Photo courtesy of Natalie Schutte. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Fishermen catch and release tiger shark; actions prompt public scorn Mark Zuckerberg has announced he is scrapping fact-checks on Facebook, claiming the labels intended to warn against fake news have destroyed more trust than they have created. Since launching the programme in 2016, Facebook has worked with more than 100 independent fact-checkers in dozens of countries who review dubious news stories and posts that go viral, labelling them with warnings if they are found to be false. However, Mr Zuckerberg said the fact-checking system, which was set up in the wake of the 2016 presidential election, had proved too politically biased and at times got things wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Facebooks fact-checkers have helped debunk hundreds of fake news stories and false rumours however, there have been several high-profile missteps. Hunter Bidens laptop In 2020, Facebook and Twitter took action to halt the spread of an article by the New York Post based on leaked emails from a laptop belonging to Joe Bidens son, Hunter Biden. Initially, Facebook reduced the visibility of the news stories, adding a note saying: If we have signals that a piece of content is false, we temporarily reduce its distribution pending review by a third-party fact-checker. Facebook later undid the block, which it said had stemmed from concerns around Russian disinformation. But the decision to suppress the story while waiting for it to be fact-checked caused major political damage to Zuckerberg. Concerns over Russian disinformation caused Facebook to reduce the visibility of stories about emails leaked from Hunter Bidens laptop - Rod Lamkey Mr Zuckerberg later said: Its since been made clear that the reporting was not Russian disinformation and, in retrospect, we shouldnt have demoted the story. The Covid lab leak theory As coronavirus spread around the world, suggestions that the vaccine could have been man-made were suppressed by Facebook. An opinion column in the New York Post with the headline: Dont buy Chinas story: The coronavirus may have leaked from a lab was labelled as false information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision infuriated the US newspaper, which insisted the piece just discussed the theory, rather than making a definitive claim one way or the other. It was months later that further doubts emerged over the origins of coronavirus. We do not definitively know where the virus came from. A US intelligence report in 2023 said its agencies had been unable to determine the precise origin of the Covid-19. China has insisted claims the virus may have leaked from a lab in Wuhan are false, although some scientists have argued it is a possibility. In 2021, Facebook lifted its ban on claims the virus could have been man-made. The group that fact-checked the story said it was not originally clearly labelled as an opinion. Pfizer vaccine trial In 2021, Facebook was still reeling from claims it had failed to tackle disinformation about the coronavirus pandemic when it was accused of wrongly fact-checking a story about Pfizers Covid-19 vaccine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A British Medical Journal (BMJ) report, based on whistleblowing, alleged poor clinical practices at a contractor carrying out research for Pfizer. However, Facebooks fact-checkers added a label arguing the story was missing context and could mislead people. The BMJ stood by the story. In a letter to Mark Zuckerberg, its editors said: Fact-checking has been a staple of good journalism for decades. What has happened in this instance should be of concern to anyone who values and relies on sources such as The BMJ. The fact-checkers later said the label was added due to the story being wildly misinterpreted on social media and rejected claims of censorship. Deleting useful Covid-19 advice In an effort to block dangerous coronavirus claims, Facebook has itself at times accidentally blocked posts trying to provide helpful health information to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, the Cochrane Library, a global healthcare database, had several posts removed when it tried to use Instagram to dispel false claims about medical treatments for coronavirus. In one case, Cochrane posted a picture with the caption: The authors found no evidence to support the use of Ivermectin for treating or preventing Covid-19 infection. Ivermectin is a drug used for deworming horses and cows. However, it was touted as an alternative treatment for Covid-19 during the pandemic. Despite widespread official warnings that the drug was useless for treating Covid-19, Facebook punished the Cochrane account. Covid masks Furious debates raged over the effectiveness of masks in preventing the spread of Covid-19. Initially, some scientists questioned their usefulness, before reversing their position and demanding widespread masking in workplaces, schools and in public spaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Facebooks fact-checkers were accused of overzealously clamping down on articles that questioned the science behind these mandates. A piece in Reason Magazine argued that a study cited by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as evidence for enforcing mask wearing among schoolchildren was junk science. It did not dispute that masks might work on children or reduce transmission but queried one study used to justify them, arguing it had numerous problems. The article was labelled by Facebook as containing false information. The label was later removed. The fact-checking group Science Feedback told Reason: We have taken another look at the Reason article and confirm that the rating was applied in error to this article. The flag has been removed. We apologise for the mistake. We absolutely refute Metas charge of bias Despite the issues, Facebooks third-party fact-checkers have defended their record since the programme began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Morris, the chief executive of Full Fact, a UK fact-checker, said: We absolutely refute Metas charge of bias we are strictly impartial, fact-check claims from all political stripes with equal rigour and hold those in power to account through our commitment to truth. Like Meta, fact-checkers are committed to promoting free speech based on good information without resorting to censorship. But locking fact-checkers out of the conversation wont help society to turn the tide on rapidly rising misinformation. 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. Content warning: This article contains disturbing descriptions of violence and sexual abuse against children. A Florida doctor is facing criminal charges after federal prosecutors allege he produced child sexual abuse material and coerced a girl to hang herself, resulting in her death. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, also faces charge of enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity in connection with the case, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida announced in a press release shared on Monday, Jan. 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leedy, a palliative care doctor in the area of Tampa, Fla., allegedly instructed about 10 children online to produce sexually explicit images of themselves and directed them to cut, choke, and hang themselves, the release states. In November 2022, a 13-year-old girl was found dead in her bathroom, hanging from the shower head with a dog leash around her neck, according to a motion filed in the case and reviewed by PEOPLE. Investigators then searched the girls cell phone and uncovered online conversations between her and someone with the username maximumuncle#9112, which was later allegedly determined to be Leedy, the motion states. In the messages, authorities claim Leedy instructed the girl to produce child sexual abuse material, engage in daily hangings and choke herself with a dog leash, per the motion. 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. Authorities said a search of Leedys social media account allegedly showed he had similar conversations with other children through text and video chat, adding he never revealed his true identity, according to the motion. Investigators claimed the conversations showed that Leedy was aware the alleged victims were minors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leedys defense attorneys, Bjorn Brunvand and Lucas Fleming, told the Tampa Bay Times their client adamantly denies the charges that have been filed against him in federal court. The attorneys added they plan to file a not guilty plea on Leedys behalf. If convicted of the three counts of production of child sexual abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity, prosecutors said Leedy faces a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor. Read the original article on People TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) A statewide grand jury convened at the request of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to investigate any and all wrongdoing concerning COVID-19 vaccines did not find any evidence of criminal activity, according to a report unsealed on Tuesday. (N)ot finding any indictable criminal activity does not mean we did not find any problems. On the contrary, there are profound and serious issues involving the process of vaccine development and safety surveillance in the United States, the grand jury wrote in its final report. In response to its findings, the grand jury made policy recommendations in its report, including increasing transparency around clinical trials and banning advertisements for pharmaceutical drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that COVID-19 vaccines underwent intensive safety analyses and that the shots continue to be monitored after FDA approval to ensure they still meet federal safety and efficacy standards. While the vaccines arent perfect, they do a good job of preventing severe disease, hospitalization and death, and have proven very safe, with only rare serious side effects, according to federal officials and public health experts. DeSantis sought the investigation in 2022, ahead of his bid for the Republican Party's presidential nomination and as he was bolstering his national profile through hard-line opposition to pandemic lockdowns and mask mandates. At the time, DeSantis said the probe would bring legal accountability to those who committed misconduct and could help get more information from pharmaceutical companies about the vaccines and potential side effects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the governor did not immediately respond on Tuesday to a request for comment from The Associated Press. Statewide grand juries, usually comprised of 18 people, can investigate criminal activity and issue indictments but also examine systemic problems in Florida and make recommendations. In recent years, other panels have tackled immigration issues and school safety. ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. LAKE CITY, Fla. (WFLA) A Florida man has pleaded guilty to assaulting a female Veterans Affairs police officer, according to the Department of Justice. Jeffrey Sager, 55, is accused of walking into the Lake City VA Medical Center in February 2024 and locking himself in a triage room with a nurse. Body found in mangroves in Tampa, police investigating The DOJ said Sager began berating the nurse, who then hit a silent panic alarm. When VA police responded, Sager refused to open the triage room door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials eventually got inside the room, but Sager took off into the hallway. A female officer caught up to Sager, and they both fell to the floor as he resisted. Sager then kicked the officer in the shoulder to try to escape, according to the DOJ. The officer dislocated and fractured her shoulder. He was taken into custody. Sager now faces a maximum of eight years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Florida man said he was attacked by a black bear cub while trying to rescue his dog last month. For Blake Sprout, his first priority was making sure his children didn't lose their beloved pet during the holiday season. "I couldn't just sit there and watch her die, Blake Sprout, of Orange City, told local Fox affiliate WOFL about the Dec. 20 incident that occurred in the front yard of his home. My kids love her! I couldn't just tell them at Christmas, our dog is gone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sprout told NBC affiliate WESH that he was letting his dogs outside when he opened the door and discovered there were three bears in his yard. Related: 35-Year-Old Man Seriously Injured After Surprise Grizzly Bear Attack in Grand Teton National Park Before I could stop my dogs, they just ran out to the bears," he told the outlet. As reported by Fox affiliate WSVN, Sprout said he kicked a bear cub when it attacked his dog Karen. While Karen was freed, the bear then turned on Sprout. 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. It dropped my dog and then attacked me and bit me in my stomach, Sprout told WSVN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As he recalled to WESH, Sprout said he kicked the cub because "I couldn't let her [Karen] die. She was screaming in pain." A neighbor recorded the harrowing incident on video, WOFL reported. Both Sprout and Karen, who had stitches, are recovering. Related: Man, 35, Attacked by Bear on Popular Trail at Glacier National Park, Then Hikes Over a Mile to Meet Helicopter "I've got a bunch of rabies shots just to be safe," Sprout told WESH. "It's pretty swollen, but it should be alright." He added that the incident has now made him more cautious when he goes outside and to always check before he walks out with his dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement shared with PEOPLE on Tuesday, Jan. 7, a spokesperson for Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the altercation involving Sprout, his dog and the bear cub. The cub had been nearby with an adult female bear and two other cubs, which were not involved in the incident, the statement continued. FWC Bear Management staff set traps on the property and successfully caught the three cubs and adult female bear, then relocated the family group. Related: 32-Year-Old Man Survives After Being Attacked by Bear, Then Shot by Hunter Who Tried to Stop Attack The FWC also said in its statement that residents should remove or secure all food attractants from around their home and yard including garbage, pet food and bird seed in order to avoid human-bear conflicts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If a bear is not able to find food, it will move on, said the FWC, which has a web page about managing bears. Feeding bears can make them lose their natural fear of people. PEOPLE contacted the family of Blake Sprout for comment on Jan. 7. Read the original article on People SAN FRANCISCO (AP) When he was still a boy making long, tedious trips between his school and his woodsy home in the mountains during the 1980s, JoeBen Bevirt began fantasizing about flying cars that could whisk him to his destination in a matter of minutes. As CEO of Joby Aviation, Bevirt is getting closer to turning his boyhood flights of fancy into a dream come true as he and latter-day versions of the Wright Brothers launch a new class of electric-powered aircraft vying to become taxis in the sky. The aircraft known as "electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle, or eVTOL lift off the ground like a helicopter before flying at speeds up to 200 miles per hour (322 kilometers per hour) with a range of about 100 miles (161 kilometers). And these craft do it without filling the air with excessive noise caused by fuel-powered helicopters and small airplanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are just a few steps from the finish line. We want to turn what are now one- and two-hour trips into five-minute trips, Bevirt, 51, told The Associated Press before a Joby air taxi took off on a test flight in Marina, California located about 40 miles south from where he grew up in the mountains. Archer Aviation, a Silicon Valley a Silicon Valley company backed by automaker Stellantis and United Airlines, has been testing its own eVTOLs over farmland in Salinas, California, where a prototype called Midnight could be seen gliding above a tractor plowing fields last November. The tests are part of the journey that Joby Aviation and other ambitious companies that collectively have raised billions of dollars are taking to turn flying cars into more than just pie-in-the-sky concepts popularized in 1960s-era cartoon series, The Jetsons, and the 1982 science fiction film, Blade Runner. Archer Aviation and nearby Wisk Aero, with ties to aerospace giant Boeing Co. and Google co-founder Larry Page, are also at the forefront in the race to bring air taxis to market in the United States. Joby has already formed a partnership to connect its air taxis with Delta Air Lines passengers while Archer Aviation has lined up a deal to sell up to 200 of its aircraft to United Airlines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flying taxis have made enough regulatory inroads with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to result in the recent creation of a new aircraft category called powered lift, a step that the agency hadn't taken since helicopters were introduced for civilian use in the 1940s. But there are more regulatory hurdles to be cleared before air taxis will be allowed to carry passengers in the U.S., making Dubai the most likely place where eVTOLs will take commercial flight perhaps by the end of this year. Its a tricky business to develop a whole new class of vehicles, said Alan Lim, director of Alton Aviation Consultancy, a firm tracking the industry's evolution. It is going to be like a crawl, walk, run situation. Right now, I think we are still crawling. We are not going to have the Jetsons-type reality where everyone will be flying around everywhere in the next two to three years. China is also vying to make flying cars a reality, a quest that has piqued President-elect Donald Trump's interest in making the vehicles a priority for his incoming administration during the next four years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the ambitions of eVTOL pioneers are realized in the U.S., people will be able to hop in an air taxi to get to and from airports serving New York and Los Angeles within the next few years. Because its electric taxis can fly unimpeded at high speeds, Joby envisions transporting up to four Delta Air Lines passengers at a time from New York area airports to Manhattan in about 10 minutes or less. To start, air taxi prices almost certainly will be significantly more that the cost of taking a cab or Uber ride from JFK airport to Manhattan, but the difference could narrow over time because eVTOLs should be able to transport a higher volume of passengers than ground vehicles stuck in traffic going each way. You will see highways in the sky, Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein predicted during an interview at the company's San Jose, California, headquarters. There will be hundreds, maybe thousands of these aircraft flying in these individual cities and it will truly change the way cities are being built. Investors are betting Goldstein is right, helping Archer raise an additional $430 million late last year from a group that included Stellantis and United Airlines. The infusion came shortly after a Japanese automaker poured another $500 million into Joby to bring its total investment in that company to nearly $900 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those investments were part of the $13 billion that eVTOL companies have raised during the past five years, according to Alton Aviation. Both Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation went public in 2021 through reverse mergers, opening up another fundraising avenue and making it easier to recruit engineers with the allure of stock options. Both companies have been able to attract workers away from electric automaker Tesla and rocket maker SpaceX and, in Archer's instance, raiding the ranks of Wisk Aero. The Wisk defections triggered a lawsuit accusing Archer of intellectual property theft in a dispute that was resolved with a 2023 settlement that included an agreement for the two sides to collaborate on some facets of eVTOL technology. Before going public, Joby also acquired eVTOL technology developed by ride-hailing service Uber in an $83 million deal that also brought those two companies together as partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But none of the deals or technological advances have stopped the losses from piling up at the companies building flying cars. Joby, whose roots date back to 2009 when Bevirt founded the company, has sustained $1.6 billion in losses since its inception while Archer has amassed nearly $1.5 billion in losses since its founding in 2018. While they moved to commercial air taxi services, both Joby and Archer are trying to bring in revenue by negotiating contracts to use their eVTOLs in the U.S. military for deliveries and other other short-range missions. Archer has forged a partnership with Anduril Industries, a military defense technology specialist founded by Oculus headset inventor Palmer Luckey, to help it win deals. The uncertain prospects have left both companies with relatively low market values by tech industry standards, with Joby's hovering around $7 billion and Archer's $6 billion. But Bevirt sees blue skies ahead. eVTOLs are going to transform the way we move, he said. Its a dramatically better way to get around. Seeing the world from the air is better than being stuck in the traffic on the interstate. About two months after a fire closed Eddies Liquidation Center in Cudahy, the store is relocating in the same strip mall. A banner sign was recently spotted on the former Finchs Vendor Expo space, 5656 S. Packard Ave., #18 in Packard Plaza, announcing Eddies Liquidation Center is coming soon. Finchs closed in late August 2024 after just over five years in business offering local vendors space to sell handmade crafts, antiques, and other items. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It appeared as of Dec. 31 some new items had already been moved into the space which still featured Finchs lettering on the window. Before it was Finchs, the space sat vacant for about 12 years after Merchandise Outlet closed its doors. After a fire closed Eddie's Liquidation Center at 5656 S. Packard Ave. in Cudahy, the store is relocating to the former Finch's Vendor Expo storefront in the same strip mall. The fire which shut down Eddies Liquidation happened Nov. 8 in a portion of the building where the store housed merchandise, Cudahy Fire Chief Jeff Bloor said. Fire crews had limited access due to many flammable materials and crews had to back out of the front of the building due to the intensity of the fire. A second alarm went out and fire crews from Saint Francis, South Milwaukee, Oak Creek, Greendale, Greenfield, West Allis and Milwaukee assisted Cudahy, according to Bloor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bloor said it took about a half-hour to get the fire under control. Nobody was injured, but the fire caused a lot of damage to the warehouse space of the store with heavy smoke damage to the sales floor and office. The business was boarded up shortly after the fire. The plywood still adorns the front facade of the space. A nail salon in the plaza also caught fire two years ago in March 2022. Packard Plaza was sold for $3.5 million in July 2023. Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: After a November fire, this liquidation store in Cudahy is relocating FOND DU LAC, Wis. (WFRV) Businesses in Fond du Lac County are joining the fight against fentanyl overdoses as officials put overdose aid kits across the community. Officials gathered at ADVOCAPs headquarters in Fond du Lac to discuss the meaning of these kits, why theyre taking action now and the history of these specific tools. Brown County United Way reinvests $150,000 towards supporting schools Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to data from Fond du Lac Countys suicide and overdose death annual report, Fond du Lac County saw 24 overdose deaths in 2023, with fentanyl present in about 87%. In addition, 65% of the years overdose deaths were a combination of opioids and stimulants, which is a nationwide trend. Green Bay Police Department: Two free grant-funded Project Lifesaver bracelets available These kits are being donated to local businesses courtesy of family members who have lost loved ones to overdose deaths. Overdose Aid Kits will provide resources for free to the community and are intended to combat the ongoing opioid crisis, assisting those in serious need or at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The locations where these Overdose Aid Kits are located are as follows, according to a release: ADVOCAP 19 W. 1st St., Fond du Lac Beacon House 166 S. Park Ave., Fond du Lac Brother Town Nation 311 Winnebago Dr., Fond du Lac Critter Junction 154 Satterlee St., Fond du Lac Holy Family Warming Shelter 73 E. 1st St., Fond du Lac Hope Lutheran Church 260 Vincent St., Fond du Lac Rainbow Bridge 212 N. Main St., Fond du Lac Sippel Funeral Home 1311 Thorp St., St. Cloud For more information, visit ADVOCAPs 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 WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. FORDYCE, Ark. Police officials in Fordyce said an officer has resigned after an unjustified use of force during a 2023 incident when a teen was hit by an officer while handcuffed. According to a statement from Fordyce Police Chief Chad Hubanks, on Dec. 23, 2023, officers were called to help find a 17-year-old who attempted to escape Millcreek Behavioral Health Facility, a residential treatment center for children and teens struggling with mental and behavioral health issues. Arkansas State Police investigating two claims of improper use of force by law enforcement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived, Hubanks said they were able to find the teen but there was a physical altercation as the teen tried to avoid restraint. The teen was eventually put in handcuffs and placed in the back of a patrol car. According to officials, an officer can be seen on video hitting the teen in the face while the teen was already restrained and then verbally berated on the way back to the facility. Reagan Stanford, an attorney with the Disability Rights of Arkansas, said the incident is unacceptable. We found that very disturbing and not an appropriate reaction, Stanford said. Obviously theres more training thats needed around people who are in a mental health crisis, working with youth, responding and understanding the population of these facilities that are in their area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jefferson Co. juvenile jail head fired, accused of using excessive force & falsifying records In the statement, Hubanks noted that every officer in the video is no longer employed with the department and the officer who was mainly involved in the unjustified use of force has resigned. Hubanks noted that officer will also be decertified. He said it also highlighted a lack of relevant training on their behalf and in response every officer employed then, now, and in the future will take an additional 12 hours of use-of-force training every year. Stanford said theyve spoken with officials at Fordyce police on recommendations to make sure that those incidents never happen again. BODY CAM VIDEO Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. After serving a little more than two years as police chief over the Acworth Police Department, Jesse Evans is returning to the Cobb County District Attorneys Office as Deputy Chief Assistant to newly elected District Attorney Sonya Allen. The bittersweet part is Im leaving a place that is home to me. But I also know there is a lot of work that needs to be done down in the judicial system and Im prepared to shoulder some of that weight to try to make things better, Jesse Evans, Deputy Chief Assistant of the Cobb County District Attorneys Office, said. Evans was sworn into his new role Monday afternoon. Prior to Evans time as police chief in his hometown of Acworth, Evans served as Chief Assistant District Attorney for the Paulding County District Attorneys office and spent 20 years before that as Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney in Cobb County. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] What an immense sense of pride its been for me to be able to serve as police chief here in my hometown, Evans said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Evans time as police chief in Acworth, he said some of his biggest accomplishments were using technology to police smarter, not harder and helping victims of crime. Were the first agency in the county to have a full-time victim advocate, Evans told Channel 2 Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell. TRENDING STORIES: STORY 1 STORY 2 STORY 3 Now Evans is passing the baton to Mark Cheatham. The two stood in a packed room as Cheatham was sworn into the department as police chief, Monday morning. Chief Cheatham began serving the city of Acworth in 2001 as an officer. He worked his way up the ranks to detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, to Captain and as Major. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evans is returning to a new administration at the Cobb County District Attorneys office at the request of newly elected District Attorney, Sonya Allen. Shes asked me to serve as her chief at the DAs office, to come in and address some systemic problems that have been going on at the judicial complex. Weve heard stories of cronyism and perhaps people able to get deals that would not be appropriate in a prior administration. I served under thats just an example of some of the things that we need to look at and try to fix, Evans said. Evans told Channel 2 Action News he is focused on leadership. My mission is to go back there and focus on leadership and focus on recruitment and focus on how we can better the system that has candidly been suffering for the last several years. Theres good people that work at the DAs office and thats the great foundational thing. There are a lot of good leaders that are down there at the district attorneys office, but theyve been lacking leadership for a period of time now. Now as a positional leader hopefully I can help with the management of cases and those otherwise talented individuals that remain at the office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evans said the DAs office has already brought a number of new prosecutors onto the team. Weve been able to recruit a lot of talented prosecutors that have gone to different offices and are coming from those offices and want to return back to Cobb, said Evans. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) A former Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office deputy found out just how long hell be behind bars for tipping off a drug dealer prior to a 2021 raid. According to the feds, then-deputy Kyle Linker made calls to a drug dealer, who was also a confidential informant, about the feds targeting him for selling drugs. Nigerian duo found guilty of defrauding Albuquerque resident of $560K The feds said he interfered with a United States Drug Enforcement Administration investigation. Linker pled guilty to obstruction of justice in September of last year. On Friday, he was sentenced to 30 days in federal prison with the remaining seven months to be served under house arrest. 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. Richard Locke will become dean of MIT Sloan on July 1 After a two-year stint as dean of Apple University, Richard Rick Locke is returning to academia. The 65-year-old former provost of Brown University has been named dean of MITs Sloan School of Management, effective July 1. For Locke, the new leadership challenge represents a return to roots. From 1988 to 2013, he had been a faculty member, a department head, and a deputy dean of MIT Sloan. After leaving MIT, Locke was a senior leader at Brown University, including seven and a half years as Browns provost. Since early 2023, he has been dean of Apple University, an educational training unit within Apple Inc. focused on educating the companys employees on leadership, management, and the companys culture and organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am thrilled to be returning to MIT Sloan, says Locke in a statement. It is a special place, with its world-class faculty, innovative research and educational programs, and close-knit community, all within the MIT ecosystem. SLOAN DEANSHIP ONE OF SEVERAL PROMINENT BUSINESS DEANSHIPS CURRENTLY VACANT In making the announcement, MIT said it had conducted an extensive search for the position, evaluating internal and external candidates over the last several months. The executive search firm Isaacson, Miller assisted the search committee which was co-chaired by Sloan Professors Kate Kellogg and Andrew W. Lo. The Sloan deanship is one of several prominent leadership roles currently unfilled in business education. Stanfords Graduate School of Business, UCLAs Anderson School of Management, and New York Universitys School of Business are among many schools searching for new deans. A so-called M7 business school, a designation reflecting the schools prestige and status, Sloan has slumped in recent MBA rankings. In the newest Poets&Quants composite ranking, Sloans MBA program placed 13th after a 14th place finish in 2023. Only three years ago in 2022, MIT Sloans MBA program was ranked sixth best in the U.S. The slide has occurred in the aftermath of a social media thrashing the school received from several international MBA students. No less troublesome, nearly a quarter of Sloans MBA graduates last year failed to gain employment three months after graduation. Even as the schools MBA placement rates are its worst in many years, overshadowing even last years dismal numbers, they were accompanied by declines in median salary, average signing bonus, average other compensation, and both median and mean overall compensation compared to previous classes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Offer rates were solidly in the mid- to high 90s and acceptance rates in the low to mid-90s from 2018 through 2022 at MIT Sloan. In fact, before last year, you had to go back to 2013 to find a sub-90% job acceptance result for Sloanies. Now it has happened in back-to back years: In 2023, as employment offers fell to 90.2%, accepts dropped to 86.9%; and this year, offers dropped further to 85.1%, and accepts fell nearly 10 more points to 77.2%. Besides these obvious issues that require his attention, Lockes most urgent challenge is to lead Sloan in addressing artificial intelligence. Among several challenges, the university singled out AI in its spec for the new dean. According to MIT, AI is already disrupting and transforming management education and presenting challenges to existing educational models.MIT Sloan has a significant opportunity to innovate and establish itself as the leading business school in this emerging field, the specs for the job concluded. The new Dean will work closely with MIT Sloan faculty and staff to ensure the School is at the forefront of curricular and pedagogical innovationreevaluating and adjusting curriculum as neededto stay abreast of industry trends, innovative teaching, and advancements in the relationship between business and emerging technologies. SLOAN BOASTS EIGHT DEGREE PROGRAMS FOR ROUGHLY 1,600 STUDENTS Locke succeeds David Schmittlein who stepped down in February 2024 after a nearly 17-year tenure. Since his departure, Sloan Professor has been serving as the interim dean and will continue in the role until Locke begins. The MIT Sloan job is one of the plum leaderships roles in business education. Though the school has only 115 tenure-track faculty, Sloan boasts an extensive educational portfolio, including eight degree programs for roughly 1,600 students. Sloan increased its combined MBA/LGO from 790 students in 2007 to over 850 students (combined two years), launched a Master of Finance that has grown from 26 to 125 students, and created a highly ranked Master in Business Analytics program which, along with the Master of Finance, is now among the most competitive degree programs at MIT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school has developed 50 different Executive Education offerings that enroll 5,000 students annually, retooled its Sloan Fellows MBA, launched a new Master of Science in Management Studies that particularly serves its international business school partners with joint degrees, strengthened its PhD program, and redesigned its undergraduate program. MIT Sloan now offers three undergraduate major options in management, finance, and business analytics, which collectively engage 204 majors and 45 minors, with 44 percent of MIT undergraduate students taking at least one Course 15 class. In addition, the Executive MBA was launched in 2010 with a class of 62 students. That program has grown to include 251 students in two cohorts. IT WILL BE EXCITING AND FUN TO WORK WITH GREAT COLLEAGUES In his statement, Locke says the schools assets give MIT Sloan an opportunity to chart the future to shape how new technologies will reconfigure industries and careers, how new enterprises will be created and run, how individuals will work and live, and how national economies will develop and adapt. It will be exciting and fun to work with great colleagues and to help lead the school to its next phase of global prominence and impact. A political scientist by training, Locke has conducted high-profile research on labor practices in global supply chains, among other topics. His career has also included efforts to bring together stakeholders, from multinational firms to supply-chain workers, in an effort to upgrade best practices in business. MIT said that Locke is widely known for a vigorous work ethic, a humane manner around co-workers, and a leadership outlook that blends idealism about civic engagement with realism about global challenges. EARNED HIS PHD AT MIT IN POLITICAL SCIENCE Locke received his BA from Wesleyan University and an MA in education from the University of Chicago. He earned his doctorate in political science at MIT, writing a dissertation about local politics and industrial change in Italy, under the supervision of now-Institute Professor Suzanne Berger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locke joined the MIT faculty as an assistant professor of international management, was promoted in 1993 to an associate professor of management and political science, and earned tenure in 1996. In 2000, he was named the Alvin J. Siteman Professor of Entrepreneurship, becoming a full professor in 2001. In 2010, Locke took on a new role at MIT, heading the Department of Political Science, a position he held through 2013; he was also given a new endowed professorship, the Class of 1922 Professor of Political Science and Management. During the same time frame, Locke also served as deputy dean at MIT Sloan, from 2009 through 2010, and then again from 2012 through 2013. LEFT MIT TO ULTIMATELY BECOME BROWNS PROVOST Locke moved to Brown in order to take the position of director of the Thomas J. Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs. In 2015, he was named Browns provost, the universitys chief academic officer and budget officer. During his nearly eight-year stint as Brown provost. While at Brown, Locke was credited with elevating the profile of the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs, building a foundation to usher in historic fundraising for student scholarships and faculty research, and working with other administrative leaders to double faculty diversity. When he left to join Apple two years ago, Locke called it the opportunity of a lifetime. There is no company in the world that has been more impactful at the intersection of technology and the liberal arts than Apple, Locke then said. To be able to bring my years of experience, passion and curiosity to support the development of the incredibly talented people at Apple is the opportunity of a lifetime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to the MIT community, MIT Provost Cynthia Barnhart praised Lockes transformative career and noted how she and the search committee agree that Ricks depth of experience makes him a once-in-a-generation leader who will hit the ground sprinting as MIT Sloans next dean. The committee and I were impressed by his vision for removing frictions that slow research efforts, his exceptional track record of raising substantial funds to support academic communities, and his strong grasp of and attentiveness to the interests and needs of MIT Sloans constituencies, says Barnhart in a statement. Locke will report to Barnhart. DONT MISS: MEET MIT SLOANS MBA CLASS OF 2026 or MIT SLOAN MBAS HIT BREAKING POINT WITH ADMINISTRATION The post Former Brown Provost Named Dean Of MIT Sloan appeared first on Poets&Quants. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) A Buffalo teen pleaded guilty to making a threat of mass harm Tuesday morning after making a threatening post toward Canisius University over the summer, the Erie County District Attorneys Office announced. Wyatt Losi, 18, made a post that was threatening in nature on Snapchat the morning of Aug. 22, officials said. He was a Canisius student at the time. Losi was offered a plea to the reduced charge with the consent of the victim. He faces a maximum of 90 days in jail when he is sentenced in March and was released on his own recognizance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A temporary stay away order of protection remains in effect. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. CHEYENNE The new Cheyenne City Council held its first meeting Monday morning, featuring two new faces. Kathy Emmons won the election for the open seat in Ward 2 following former council member Bryan Cooks decision not to seek reelection for a fourth term, and Mark Moody bested former council member Richard Johnson for a seat representing Ward 3 in the November general election. Before the new members were sworn into office, the two departing council members reflected on their time serving on the governing body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Cook concluded his third four-year term on the council. Before leaving the dais for the final time, Cook thanked his family for the sacrifices theyve made to support him over the past 12 years. Ive enjoyed this. You know, youre always going to have regrets, theres always things that youre going to wish you could have done better, but Ive enjoyed this, Cook said. I appreciate the support of the people who have supported me and voted for me for the last 12 years. Ive really tried to do well by you. I hope I have, but history will be the judge of that. Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins spoke to Cooks character, noting that he also served for 12 years as a council member before taking some years off and then seeking the mayoral seat in 2020. He said he admired Cooks support for youth recreational opportunities. Patrick Collins and Bryan Cook Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, right, presents former Ward 2 council member Bryan Cook, left, with a plaque and a gavel to thank him for his 12 years of service on the governing body after Cook did not seek reelection. He understands how sporting facilities help kids understand teamwork, confidence, develop lifelong friendships and promote just so dang much fun, Collins said of Cook. Bryan has been a huge supporter of improving the quality of life in our community. I know Bryan is so proud of his support of our efforts to support housing, the 17th Street lighting project, the trails on the Belvoir Ranch and the efforts to clean up the (former) Hitching Post (Inn property). Bryan is a gentle giant whose career helping people doesnt match his physical appearance. Following his remarks about Cook, Collins spoke of his time working with Johnson on the council. Collins said that, despite Johnsons outside appearance, he believes him to be the hardest working member on council, describing him as brilliant and relentless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins said hes heard rumors Johnson only sleeps a few hours per night and spends the remainder of his time researching city code and looking into how other communities function to improve Cheyenne. During his nocturnal readings, he came across a biased-crimes ordinance in Tulsa that became the most important piece of legislation he wrote in our governing body that passed, Collins said. I love having Richard on the City Council. He represents a group of people many of us dont get to talk to on a regular basis, and that makes our governing body stronger. I know hes leaving our City Council, but I also know he wont stop working to make our community better. Johnson said his prepared speech would be a compliment sandwich and described the meeting as the Richard Johnson pity party, party of one. He began by reflecting on some of the things he was proud of from his time in office and the magic he saw in Cheyenne. Now, however, he says that magic has faded. Patrick Collins and Richard Johnson Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, right, presents former Ward 3 council member Richard Johnson, left, with a plaque and a gavel to thank him for his eight years of service on the governing body after Johnson lost his bid for reelection in 2024. Over the past four years, he said he has become jaded in his view of his role on the council because of how he has been treated by constituents. I get it. Ive brought up nearly every controversial topic over the last 10 years, he said. But its the lack of respect that really got to me. He said that after the human rights ordinance that Collins referenced earlier was passed, constituents called him for 185 days straight and accused him of being akin to the likes of Adolf Hitler for the way he is governing Cheyenne. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now think of that. You know, I get it. Ive worked with tons of staff, and I know you guys get tons of emails, but to be called Hitler after a human rights ordinance for 185 straight days. Yeah, it kind of wears on you, he said. Concluding his second nonconsecutive term on council, Johnson said he doesnt see Cheyenne heading in a positive direction. In the next four years, theres not going to be a lot of changes that are going on in Cheyenne. The voters have spoken, and they really would like Cheyenne to go back to a nice, quieter 1950s motif, and Im not about that, he said. Sine Die & First Regular Meeting - 01-06-25 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheyenne City Council, Jan. 6, 2025 Johnson concluded his compliment sandwich by stating that this is one of the most proactive councils he has ever worked on. He then complimented each council member and the mayor individually, stating the things he appreciated about working on with them. So with that, with all my gripes and everything and all the complaints from people that call me Hitler, I brought something for all your complaints, Johnson said as he proceeded to hold up a plastic bag, referencing the drama that grasped the city when he put forward an ordinance that would ban plastic bags in Cheyenne, which failed in 2023. Following Johnsons closing remarks, Collins reflected on the past four years and noted what he is looking forward to in the next four years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We worked so hard to avoid the chaos that prevents so many governing bodies from being successful, said Collins, who is beginning his second four-year term. We agreed to avoid using social media to criticize each other and to use it only positively. We stayed away from national social issues and focused our efforts on issues specific to Cheyenne, and it made a difference, and we were able to accomplish much. Going forward, Collins said he hopes to work on continued road maintenance efforts, housing development and identifying more water resources for the future. After the new council members were sworn into office, the governing body approved the following city department heads: * Charles Bloom: Director of the Planning & Development Department Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Bradley Bowen: Assistant City Treasurer for the Board of Public Utilities * John Brodie: City Attorney * Thomas Cobb: City Engineer * Mark Francisco: Chief of the Cheyenne Police Department * Ronald Jeffrey: Juvenile Court Judge * John Kopper: Chief of Cheyenne Fire Rescue * Robin Lockman: City Treasurer * Vicki Nemecek: Director of the Public Works Department * Jason Sanchez: Director of the Community Recreation & Events Department * David Singleton: Senior Municipal Court Judge * Kylie Soden: City Clerk and Assistant City Treasurer Cheyenne department heads City of Cheyenne department heads take the oath of office on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, Stefanie Boster stepped down as city attorney, and City Clerk Kris Jones retired. Deputy City Attorney John Brodie and Deputy Clerk Kylie Soden were appointed to replace them, respectively. I think we have the best employees in our community working for the city of Cheyenne, council member Michelle Aldrich said, and while we may not always be able to show that with financial resources, I hope that every single city employee of Cheyenne feels appreciated and knows how much we appreciate the work that you do. The council also voted to appoint council member Mark Rinne as council president and council member Scott Roybal as council vice president for 2025. The former deputy press secretary for then-Governor Jimmy Carter spoke with Channel 2s Sophia Choi about his days with Carter. What I found most pleasing was his loyalty and honesty, Bob Klingensmith said. Klingensmith was just 29 years old when he worked for Gov. Carter in 1971. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Now hes 82 years old and remembers those days fondly. He let you do your thing. He wasnt a micro-manager, Klingensmith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Carter never needed much help. When speaking to people, he did it off the cuff, using only an index card with some basic information as a guide. He only used prepared text on the state of the state, state of the budget, and the inaugural address, Klingensmith said. He describes Carter as fun-loving and easygoing, but always on point. You know he had a way of getting things done, he said. While working with Carter, Klingensmith said he also got to know First Lady Rosalynn Carter. He even once interviewed her in the governors mansion bedroom. She was finishing putting her makeup on and I did the interview, Klingensmith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are cherished memories for Klingensmith, who once called Carter boss and a friend. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WFXR) On December 31, 2024, the US Attorneys Office of the Western District of Virginia announced a Martinsville-based doctor was convicted on multiple drug charges by a US District Court in Abingdon. After a three-week trial, 42-year-old Joel Smithers was found guilty of one count of maintaining a place to illegally distribute controlled substances and 466 counts of illegally prescribing Schedule II controlled substances. Patients trust doctors to make decisions based on their healthcare needs, not a perversion of their own greed, Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee said today. For many years, this defendant betrayed the trust placed in him by his patients, his community, and the medical profession as a whole through his illegal distribution of thousands of medically unnecessary opioids. I am grateful to the entire prosecution team for bringing this case to justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Acting Director of corrections & pretrial services agency in Lynchburg indicted on conspiracy charges According to the district attorney, in August of 2015, Smithers opened an office in Martinsville and prescribed controlled substances to every patient in his practice, distributing over 500,000 Schedule II drugs, including oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydromorphone, and fentanyl. Evidence showed that Smithers did not accept insurance and took in over $700,000 in cash and credit card payments before warrants were served at his office in March 2017. Smithers was previously convicted on these charges in 2019; however, the US Supreme Court changed the law concerning jury instructions in cases involving the illegal distribution of controlled substances by health care providers after his conviction, resulting in a new trial. The existence of these pill mills flooding southwest Virginia with controlled substances violates one of the first principles of the Hippocratic Oath: to do no harm, said Attorney General Jason Miyares. Joel Smithers did not seek to treat patients but rather sought to destroy lives for profit. I am grateful to both the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for their resilience and professionalism in this and many other instances. My special thanks goes out to Virginias Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their exemplary work in keeping our citizens safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smithers faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 for each distribution count and up to 20 years and $500,000 for maintaining a place for the illegal distribution of controlled substances. Sentencing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on March 3, 2025, in Abingdon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 former New Jersey police cadet alleges that the Bergen County Police Academy's training program led him to be hospitalized in 2023 and left him with extensive injuries. Nicholas Trapani filed the lawsuit on Dec. 31, 2024, in New Jersey Superior Court, according to a complaint obtained by PEOPLE. According to the document, after graduating from community college in 2023, Trapani was provisionally hired by the City of Hackensack to become a police officer and was sent to the Bergen County Police Academy (BCPA). At the time, Trapani was 21, in "excellent physical health," and had already passed all his psychological, medical and physical exams ahead of the start of physical training, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Massachusetts State Police Recruit Dies After Boxing Training Exercise: 'Beloved Member of His Class' However, the complaint alleged that cadets were left "in the dark" about the specifics of the training and were not informed in advance that "their ability to consume liquids and nourishment would be severely restricted. Additionally, according to the complaint, cadets were required to perform specific tasks in order to eat. The complaint also added that the cadets would help each other through pull up drills because of their overall severe fatigue. After training began, the weather was excessively hot, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees or higher, according to the complaint. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. On July 26, 2023, which was described in the complaint as a particularly hot day, Trapani allegedly "became extremely ill" and had to stop running due to serious physical distress from dehydration and heat exhaustion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint also alleged that none of the BCPA personnel "were certified" to be running boot camp, nor were they certificated "to perform medical aid. Related: Former High School Coach Accused of Forcing Students to Do 400 Push-Ups with No Break as Punishment According to the complaint, the academy personnel called the Hackensack Police Department, whose cruiser transported the cadet to a hospital. Trapani spent three days in the hospital, and according to the complaint, he suffered from acute heat distress and rhabdomyolysis a condition in which the muscles break down resulting in muscle death, per the Mayo Clinic. His injuries were allegedly so extensive that he was medically discharged from the academy on Aug. 7, 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following a year of physical therapy, medical providers assessed that Trapani is permanently disabled and will not likely be able to use his left arm as it has no strength and he cannot use it in a meaningful way," according to the complaint. NJ.com and NorthJersey.com earlier reported on the lawsuit. The law firms of Lawrence H. Kleiner and Eric V. Kleiner, who represent Trapani, shared a news release with PEOPLE on Monday, Jan. 6. This was a form of depravity and torture that ultimately left Nicholas severely paralyzed for life causing unthinkable endless emotional and physical trauma," the release read in part. Trapani's lawyers also alleged that Trapani's injuries ended "his law enforcement career and ultimately it tragically has ruined his life. In emails to PEOPLE on Friday, Jan. 3, and Monday, Jan. 6, representatives for Bergen County and the Bergen County Prosecutors Office said they cannot comment on pending litigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When reached by PEOPLE, the Bergen County Law & Public Safety Institute, which includes the police academy, deferred to a representative for Bergen County on Jan. 6 for comment. The Bergen County Sheriffs Office has not immediately responded to PEOPLEs Jan. 3 request for comment. Read the original article on People Former NATO secretary general Jens Stoltenberg is set to travel to Washington for the inauguration of incoming US president Donald Trump on January 20. Stoltenberg, who is set to become the head of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), told dpa on Tuesday that his focus will be on strengthening US-European relations in his new role. Stoltenberg is expected to officially take over the role of chairman of the MSC after the upcoming conference meeting from February 14 to 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Stoltenberg, a former prime minister of Norway, the world's largest conference on foreign and security policy will be led by a non-German. The MSC was founded in 1963. Each February, top political and defence officials gather in southern Germany to debate international security matters. The MSC is hoping for strong representation from the incoming Trump administration, with the US vice president traditionally presenting the new administration's foreign policy at the conference. Last year, JD Vance, Trump's designated vice president, attended as a Republican senator. Germany's official representative at Trump's inauguration is scheduled to be the ambassador in Washington, Andreas Michaelis. A government spokeswoman pointed out that US protocol typically designates ambassadors to represent foreign nations at presidential inaugurations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In mid-December, Trump's spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said that several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, had been invited, though no further details were provided. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has confirmed plans to visit Trump in Washington soon after the inauguration. Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Former President Jimmy Carter is lying in state inside the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C., where Vice President Kamala Harris, House speaker Mike Johnson and Senate majority leader John Thune paid their respects Tuesday. Carter died last month at the age of 100. "Jimmy Carter was that all too rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty and grace," Harris said in her eulogy before family members and lawmakers gathered inside the rotunda. "He lived his faith. He served the people and he left the world better than he found it. And in the end, Jimmy Carter's work, and those works, speak for him -- louder than any tribute we can offer," the vice president added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House speaker Johnson, R-La., was joined by House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., in presenting a wreath for Carter's casket on behalf of the House of Representatives. "President Jimmy Carter brought life-saving medicine in the face of conflict," Johnson said. "He brokered peace in the face of discrimination. He reminded us that we are all made in the image of God. And if you were to ask him why he did it all, he would likely point to his faith." Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (L) pay their respects as the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter lies in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington DC on Tuesday. During her eulogy, Harris called Carter "a rare example of a gifted man" who "lived his faith." Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Sen. Thune, R-S.D., praised Carter's work after his presidency to improve the lives of others. "President Carter's term as president ended in 1981, and for the remainder of his life -- the longest post-presidency of any American president ever -- he focused on making the lives of his fellow men better," Thune said. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., speaks as the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter lies in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington DC on Tuesday. Johnson commended Carter for his tireless work and for "brokering peace in the face of discrimination." Pool Photo by Saul Loeb/UPI "That meant things like the Carter Center, which, among other things, works for the eradication of disease in some of the poorest areas of the globe. And it meant things like his work with Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing for those in need," Thune continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of Carter's children and grandchildren served as honorary pallbearers Tuesday at the Capitol rotunda, where the late president will lie in state ahead of Thursday's funeral. The public will be allowed to pay their respects over the next two days. Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., pay their respects as the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter lies in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Carter, the 39th president, died at the age of 100 on December 29 at his home in Plains, Georgia. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Earlier Tuesday, a plane carrying Carter's casket and family arrived outside of Washington, D.C., for the 3-day state funeral in the nation's capital. The Boeing 747 -- with the 28000 tail number typically designated Air Force One when the current president is on board -- arrived at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at about 2 p.m. local time. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., praised Carter's "longest post-presidency of any American president ever" and his "focus on making the lives of his fellow men better." The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington DC until Thursday's funeral. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flight, dubbed "Special Air Mission 39" to honor Carter's place as the nation's 39th president, lifted off from Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia. He had been in repose at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta since Saturday. The flag-draped casket was transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial, where family members walked in a procession to the U.S. Capitol. Amy Carter, daughter of former President Jimmy Carter, attends the U.S. Capitol ceremony as the flag-draped casket of the late president lies in the state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Carter, the 39th president, died at the age of 100 on December 29 at his home in Plains, Georgia. Pool Photo by J. Scott Applewhite/UPI James Earl Carter Jr. died on Dec. 29 at age 100 in his modest, longtime home in the small town of Plains, Ga., where he was born and raised. The longest-living American president had been in hospice care for more than a year. His death followed that of his beloved wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. The two had known each other for more than 90 years. Carter's mother, Lillian Carter, was a nurse who helped deliver Rosalynn in 1927. Military pallbearers carry the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter into the U.S. Capitol rotunda to lie in state in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. The public can pay their respects to the late president between 6 p.m. and midnight Tuesday, and 7 a.m. Wednesday through 7 a.m. Thursday. Pool Photo by Shawn Thew/UPI The U.S. Navy Memorial was the motorcade's first stop to honor Carter's service as a lieutenant submariner. The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson from the U.S. Navy Memorial to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Pool Photo by Mark Schiefelbein/UPI Members of Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court and scores of other dignitaries gathered at the U.S. Capitol for the lying-in-state ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, Carter's body will return to his home state for a private service at the Maranatha Baptist Church -- where the Nobel Peace Prize winner often taught Sunday School until a few short years ago -- before his burial next to the former first lady at the family home in Plains. A military team moves the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter upon arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on Tuesday. Pool Photo by Susan Walsh/ UPI Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The property was deeded by Carter to the National Park Service and will transition to a national historic site to open as early as this summer. There are no other events open to the public afterward. The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter lies in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Carter, the 39th president, died at the age of 100 on December 29 at his home in Plains, Georgia. Pool Photo by Andrew Harnik/UPI Meanwhile in the nation's capital, thousands are expected to flock to D.C. to stand in frigid temperatures to pay respects to the noted humanitarian and former world leader from 6 p.m. to midnight Tuesday, and 7 a.m. Wednesday through 7 a.m. Thursday. Carter's body will then travel to Washington National Cathedral for his National Funeral Service, where President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy. According to officials, street closures in the capital related to the state funeral and its listed times are subject to change, and the public should expect parking restrictions to be in place. The former leader of the Proud Boys has asked President-elect Donald Trump for a pardon. Henry Enrique Tarrio once served as the national chairman of the far-right group, which federal prosecutors said played a central role in the breach of the Capitol building four years ago. More than a year after he was sentenced to 22 years in prison and 36 months behind bars for his role in the Capitol riot, Tarrio has asked to be pardoned by Trump, according to a letter obtained by ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 42-year-old was portrayed throughout the Governments case as a right-wing extremist that promoted a neo-fascist militant organization. Henry is nothing more than a proud American that believes in true conservative values, his lawyer, Nayib Hassan wrote on Monday, which marked the four-year anniversary of the Capitol attack. Tarrio was arrested on January 4, 2021. A warrant was issued for his arrest after he admitted to burning a Black Lives Matter flag outside a historically Black church in D.C. in December 2020. Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio speaks at a rally in Delta Park on Sept. 26, 2020, in Portland, Oregon. He asked Trump for a pardon on the four-year anniversary of the Capitol riot, an event that federal prosecutors said his group played a central role in (AP) A judge then ordered him to leave the D.C. area and not partake in the rally that took place two days later, the attorney wrote. Tarrio complied with the court orders, the lawyer said. He left the D.C. area and moved to Baltimore, but still, the government pursued his client. Nonetheless, the Government pushed forward charging and prosecuting Henry, along with four individuals in the same trial, for expressing their freedom of expression, Hassan said, adding that the court imposed the largest sentence of any January 6 defendant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For most of his time in custody, Tarrio has been living in a special housing unit, during which he can see outside of his cell for just one hour each day. The rest of the time, hes kept in seclusion, the lawyer wrote. No individual should be housed for this extended time as it is cruel and an unusual punishment and can lead to major mental health concerns, Hassan argued. Granting the pardon would allow Tarrio to reintegrate into his extremely supportive family and help him contribute meaningfully to the community, the letter said. Hassan said his client has an aspiring future ahead of him and had previously been running two successful businesses before he was incarcerated. A jury found Tarrio and three co-defendants guilty of seditious conspiracy and other charges related to the Capitol attack. Supporters of President Donald Trump rally outside the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Tarrio showed remorse during his sentencing hearing in September 2023. He called the Capitol attack a national embarrassment and said he would have to live with that shame for the rest of my life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But during the trials closing arguments, Hassan placed the blame on Trump: It was Donald Trumps words. It was his motivationIt was not Enrique Tarrio. They want to use Enrique Tarrio as a scapegoat for Donald J Trump and those in power. Now, hes asking the same man for clemency for his client. Tarrio isnt the only member of the neo-fascist group to ask for a pardon. Joseph Biggs, another leader of the Proud Boys, asked to be granted clemency in November shortly after Trump was re-elected. He was sentenced to 17 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release after a jury convicted him of seditious conspiracy and other crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are divisive times, his attorney wrote. The divisions were acute in 2020, when millions believed the election was stolen and turned out to make sure electoral integrity was preserved. Suspicions and bitterness about the election lingers to this day. The lawyer added: A pardon of Mr. Biggs will help close that wound and inspires confidence in the future. Trump has left open the possibility of pardoning some January 6-related defendants or as he calls them, unbelievable patriots and hostages. In an interview with Meet the Press last month, the president-elect said he would most likely pardon them: Most likely, Ill do it very quickly. In the nearly four years that followed, 1,561 individuals have been criminally charged in connection to the attack. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) A former San Diego Police officer is suing the department over allegations of retaliation, wrongful termination and discrimination. The officer, Allyson Ford, claims SDPD tried to cover up the abuse by another officer, who was her husband at the time. I joined the San Diego Police Department at just 16 years old as a volunteer cadet, Ford said. After climbing up the ranks for a total of 20 years with the department, she became a detective. Shes no longer with the department, but on Monday, she stood in front of it alongside her attorneys to share her story publicly for the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peter Seidlers widow takes legal action in fight for control over the Padres She said she believed in SDPD. But in April 2020, my belief was shattered because I reported a senior male officer had committed crimes, Ford said. She said in April 2020, she called police to her own home in Escondido, reporting felony domestic violence, DUI, harassment, threats and blackmail by her husband, who was an SDPD sergeant at the time. According to the 171 page complaint, lieutenants from SDPD responded to her home and talked with Escondido Police. She claims her husband was never arrested and never forced to surrender his weapons despite a judge-granted restraining order against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That night, he actually said to me that I was going to lose my job with the San Diego Police Department because of the power he had on the department, and his friends and contacts, Ford said. At first, I didnt believe him because I thought that the department that I loved and had worked so hard for would protect me. But they did not, and I believe the San Diego Police Department retaliated against me, Ford added. She claims SDPD placed her under investigation several times after reporting the violence. Instead of supporting her, the San Diego Police Department ignored these findings, dismissed crucial evidence and allowed her husband to remain armed and in the field, attorney John Gomez said. We believe the evidence in this case will prove that instead of investigating her complaints, they dismissed her reports, and instead of protecting her and her young son, enabled her husband to avoid the consequences, retain his firearms, violate restraining orders and continued to threaten and torment her, all the while acting as an active duty police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complaint details each moment Ford believes SDPD attempted to cover up the abuse, as she called it. The complaint includes a photo of Ford with a black eye after the violent incident in April 2020. SDPD supplied Plaintiffs (former) husband with confidential information multiple times about Plaintiffs complaints to SDPD, interfered with Plaintiffs restraining order and child custody proceedings in order to protect him, conspired to make Plaintiffs work environment utterly unconscionable and unsafe, violated the law along with dozens of police procedures- in order to victim-shame Plaintiff, abused police resources to stalk and harass Plaintiff for her husbands benefit, concealed evidence and obstructed justice, initiated two false and retaliatory internal investigations against Plaintiff, and ultimately made the terms and conditions of her work environment so unbearably hostile that she was forced to resign, the complaint reads. I hope that they take this as a chance to make changes so that it doesnt happen again to anybody else, Ford said. I hope it ends with me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City Attorneys Office and SDPD said they do not comment on pending litigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A former nurse who was employed at the Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, was charged on Friday with malicious wounding and felony child abuse for allegedly intentionally injuring an infant at the hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman of Chesterfield County was charged with one count of felony child neglect which carries up to 10 years in prison, as well as one count of felony malicious wounding for an injury sustained by an infant which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, according to Henrico Commonwealth Attorney Shannon Taylor, whose office is prosecuting this case. The charges are connected to an incident that allegedly occurred on Nov. 10, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to WRIC, the ABC affiliate in Richmond, Strotman was arraigned on Friday. Public defender Scott Cardani, who is representing Strotman, told ABC News on Tuesday that she has not yet entered a plea and he declined to comment on the charges. According to court records, Strotman's next hearing is scheduled for March 24, 2025. She was denied bond, according to Taylor's office, and was ordered by the court to not have any contact with children under the age of 18. Taylor told ABC News on Tuesday that while Strotman was charged in connection to a single incident, the investigation is ongoing and law enforcement officials have so far identified seven potential victims, but added that the number could increase. "Thus far, we have four babies identified from 2023 and three babies identified from 2024," Taylor said. "However, both Henrico Police Division and myself have made public statements encouraging families to reach out if they believe that their babies were impacted. Thus, this number may increase." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New federal rule will remove medical debt from credit reports PHOTO: Erin Elizabeth Ann Strotman booking photo (Henrico County, Virginia Sheriff's Office) Taylor said that her office has been in touch with the families who have been identified so far, but officials did not name the alleged potential victims involved in this case. According to the Henrico Police Department, law enforcement officials began to probe this case after the Henrico Doctors' Hospital launched an internal investigation into "unexplained fractures" sustained by babies in the hospital's NICU from 2023 to 2024. "All of the previously closed cases related to these incidents have been reopened as part of the recent broader investigation," Henrico Police said in a statement on Dec. 31 2024. "All of the families involved in this current broader investigation have been notified, to include those from 2023." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dominique Hackey, a father of twins, told WRIC in an interview published on Jan. 1 that his son Noah's case is one of those that has been reopened. "We want to make it clear that Noah didn't have a bone disease. It wasn't accidental. It wasn't from his birth," Hackey said. "Somebody did this to our son and we're going to find out who did this." House passes Laken Riley Act as first bill of new Congress As this case gained national attention, the Henrico Police Department dispelled rumors that the alleged victims were targeted based on their racial identity, telling ABC News in a statement on Tuesday those allegations are "not factual" based on the "preliminary investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Henrico Chief of Police Eric D. English said that police recognize that this case has generated feelings and emotions, but asked the public for "patience as our detectives work to investigate every piece of evidence in connection to these cases." As part of the investigation, police said that they are reviewing dozens of videos from inside the NICU as they pursue a wider investigation with the assistance of Henrico's Child Protective Services (Department of Social Services), the Henrico County Commonwealth Attorney's Office, Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Health and the Office of the Attorney General. A spokesperson for the Henrico Police Department confirmed to ABC News on Tuesday that the investigation is ongoing. Henrico Doctors' Hospital announced on their website that the hospital's NICU is "not admitting new patients" at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have been assisting law enforcement in their ongoing investigation and will continue to do so. Any media questions or inquiries about that investigation should be directed to law enforcement," the hospital said in a statement on Jan. 3. "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." ABC News reached out to a hospital spokesperson for further comment. Former Virginia nurse charged with felony child abuse amid probe into NICU babies suffering 'unexplained fractures' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) Four suspects were arrested in connection to a shooting at a home in the 15000 block of Woodland Acres Avenue on Jan. 3. During the investigation, EBRSO discovered that two men reportedly shot at the Woodland Acres Avenue home and vehicles. Deputies said one person fired shots from inside the home and hit two vehicles across the street. No injuries were reported. All of the suspects fled the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EBRSO executed a search warrant on Jan. 6. at a home in the 4800 block of Five Forks Avenue. Before that happened, a vehicle was seen leaving the home. A short police chase started after the driver refused to stop for deputies. The chase ended when the car crashed into a tree on Port Hudson Drive. Ashley Neal, 30, of Baton Rouge, was arrested on Jan. 4 while the other three suspects were arrested on Jan. 6 after the police chase. Dylan Brownware, 20, Kevin Davis, 17, and Ken Davis, 19, all of Baton Rouge, fled from the vehicle while armed. All three were captured in the area and all three handguns were recovered. Neal was charged with five counts of principal to attempted first-degree murder. Brownware was charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated criminal damage to property, and one count each of firearm/machine gun handling and resisting an officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office said Brownware has an active arrest warrant through the New Orleans Police Department for a charge of principal attempted second-degree murder in connection to a November shooting. Baton Rouge police investigating deadly shooting on Shelley Street Kevin Davis was charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and one count each of aggravated criminal damage to property, firearm/machine gun handling and resisting an officer. Deputies noted that Kevin has an active bench warrant for charges of illegal carry of weapons and resisting and officer. Ken Davis was charged with firearm/machine gun handling and resisting an officer. The sheriffs office said investigators do not believe he was an active participant in the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation remains ongoing. 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 Louisiana First News. The Community Schools Trust in East London has a teacher recruitment package that leaves the competition in the shade. Not only is there free gym membership, an employee counselling service and breaktime cakes in the staff rooms, but the trust gives teachers and pupils Friday afternoons off, too. I personally stand up at each school and say, Listen, on Friday afternoons, it isnt a con: I want to see you walk out of that door, and I make sure that I regularly leave early too, says Simon Elliott, the chief executive of the trust, which runs six schools in London and Norfolk. If teachers want to use the afternoon to get the train to Paris, then, of course, thats fine Another good measure of take-up among staff is that theres a pub next door to one school, it definitely fills up on a Friday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four-and-a-half-day week that the trust operates is unusual but not unique. While no official figures exist to indicate the extent of the model, it has been quietly adopted further afield; Ursuline High School in south-west London, Bellfield Junior School in Birmingham, and a number of secondaries in Edinburgh all end their timetables at around 1.30pm on Friday. And now campaigners are pushing for greater and more widespread reforms to the school week. In an era where teacher shortages are endemic, when working from home is seen as a right, and hard work considered detrimental to wellbeing, less is being promoted as more. Many overseas schools operate a shorter working week - Getty/iStockphoto A new report from The Autonomy Institute, a progressive research body that ran the worlds largest four-day working week trial in 2022, is advocating a widespread adoption in schools of four-day weeks, shorter working weeks and nine-day fortnights. Reimagining Learning: Blueprints for a Shorter School Week in Britain argues that teachers are in the grip of a dramatic lack of work-life balance and regularly working more than 50 hours a week, leading to mental health problems, high turnover rates and broken schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It proposes offering teachers a day off a week or fortnight by employing more staff to cover lessons over a normal five-day working week, an approach recently adopted by, among others, Dixons Academies Trust in West Yorkshire, St Peters Catholic School in Solihull, Court Moor School in Hampshire, and St Philip Howard Catholic Primary School in Hertfordshire. More controversially, this could include a shorter week for pupils too; the report features Community Schools Trust as a case study. Five days of schooling is not necessarily the norm overseas. In France, many schools have a half-day on Wednesdays and some operate a four-day week. Meanwhile, in the United States, research suggests that more than 2,100 schools in 25 states have switched to a four-day school week in a bid to recruit teachers, save money and boost flagging student attendance. Pupils at Liberty Woodland School in Morden say the four-day week has helped their mental health One British school that has already taken the step to a four-day week is Liberty Woodland, a 21,000 private school in Morden, south London. Pupils, aged four to 16, are only required to be in class Monday to Thursday. Teaching time has been extended from the normal 9am to 3pm to a school day that starts at 8.30am and ends at 4.40pm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students say the four-day week, and the schools focus on wellbeing, has helped their mental health, an argument that has increasing weight at a time when diagnoses of conditions such as autism and ADHD are soaring and families are demanding greater flexibility in school timetables for children with special educational needs. The school says the model is designed to offer pupils increased opportunities for independent exploration and personal development. However, for most parents, the question left begging is that while teachers are in the pub, on the train to Paris or sitting at home marking work, what will children be doing? A comment by one 11-year-old pupil at the school is particularly illuminating, and goes to the heart of the debate; he admits that on his Friday off, he sometimes plays video games with friends. Families with younger children are already crippled by childcare costs, and many parents cannot afford to go part-time. A recent discussion on social media site Mumsnet on the issue of shorter school weeks makes this dilemma clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can I have Friday off too? If yes then sure, quips one mother. Another says: I cant see how this would work unless all employers allowed four-day working weeks. Parents and teachers are also concerned about lost teaching time and whether the full curriculum can be covered in a four-day week. For those with younger children, an extended school day of eight hours to make up for the lost time is problematic. Im in primary and no thank you, says one teacher. Children are tired enough as it is without trying to cram everything into four days. One mum commented that her daughters school was already worrying about how it was going to finish the biology A-level syllabus with students in school five days a week. Families with teenagers fear shorter weeks will increase screen time outside of school - Johnny Greig/Getty The Governments curriculum and assessment review could inadvertently end up paving the way for a shorter school week. From teacher unions and exam boards to mental health charities, demands are being made for content to be cut from what they argue is an overloaded curriculum, although few have gone as far as suggesting what topics that are currently taught in class should face the chop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Families with teens fear that an extra day off in the week will mean yet more time spent on screens. Those with a parent at home or who can afford to lay on activities can mitigate this, but many young people could be left to their own devices; or, more accurately, on their devices. Thanks to such concerns, a proposal for a four-and-a-half-day week in Dumfries and Galloway, in Scotland, was recently shelved. More than half of parents who took part in a survey on the subject were against the change. A proposal last year in West Dunbartonshire Council for a four-day school week was also dropped. Nick Harrison, the chief executive of the Sutton Trust education charity, warns that poorer children are the ones who lose out most when they are not in school. Theres extensive evidence that disadvantaged pupils tend to lose out on learning opportunities when schools are closed during summer, as they did when schools closed during the pandemic, he says. Any schools proposing to change timetables should be careful to assess the impact on those pupils to ensure that the attainment gap between poorer pupils and their peers, already at a decade-long high, doesnt increase further. Exam results at Community Schools Trust secondaries have impressed - David Jones/PA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iain Mansfield, the head of education at the think tank Policy Exchange, has similar concerns. He says that while flexibility is an essential part of keeping teachers in the workforce, and that this could involve a four-day week for some staff, this should never come at the expense of childrens learning. All the evidence shows that time spent in school is one of the strongest predictors of school achievement, he adds. Schools that have moved to a shorter week are convinced of the benefits, however. It boosts staff recruitment and retention, and both teachers and pupils are happier and more motivated, they say. At Community Schools Trust secondaries, it seems to be working; exam results are impressive and they score highly on the progress made by disadvantaged pupils. Forest Gate Community School, its flagship secondary with an outstanding Ofsted rating, also runs a hugely successful scholarship programme, which has seen deprived youngsters win around 2 million in all-expenses-paid places at top fee-paying schools, including Eton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief executive Simon Elliott believes other secondary schools could reap similar benefits from a shorter week. The experience of Forest Gate, along with the other CST schools, shows that direct reductions of working time are not only desirable in UK schools theyre readily feasible, he says. It is an everyday part of life at CST schools valued by staff, students and parents alike. 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. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Four San Diego State University fraternity members are facing criminal charges after one of the young men sustained third-degree burns on his body during a skit performed at their party, the county District Attorney announced Monday. The incident involving the Phi Kappa Psi members occurred last February, when the fraternity was on probation with the university due to issues of hazing and conduct that threatens the health and safety of students. Prosecutors say three of the students Lucas Cowling, Christopher Serrano and Lars Larsen planned the skit for a party hosted at their fraternity house. According to the district attorney, the act involved Serrano setting Larsen on fire. Both were pledges at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former SDPD detective sues department with allegations of retaliation and abuse cover-up Larsen sustained third-degree burns to roughly 16% of his body when the skit was performed, largely concentrated along his legs. The 19-year-old spent weeks in the hospital to receive treatment for the injuries, prosecutors say. Larsen and the other two involved in the skit, both of whom were 20 years old, reportedly had consumed alcohol prior to the skit being performed. Yet after the incident, the district attorney alleges there was a coordinated effort by the three as well as the chapters president, 22-year-old Caden Cooper to impede investigators efforts, including deleting evidence and directing fraternity members to speak to law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement shared with FOX 5/KUSI Tuesday, a spokesperson for SDSU said the university was tipped off to the incident by an anonymous call, prompting the launch of an investigation by the SDSU police department. The findings from that investigation were then handed over to the district attorney. The fraternity was also placed on interim suspension by the schools Dean of Students Office, the spokesperson added. All four students are each facing at least one felony charge in relation to the incident and purported cover-up, including recklessly causing a fire with great bodily injury, conspiracy to commit an act injurious to the public, and violating the social host ordinance. Each pleaded not guilty and were released on their own recognizance with specific orders from the court, including to steer clear of any fraternity parties and events. Additional hearings in the case are scheduled for early spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SDSU declined to comment further on the specific case in the statement, but the university said it prioritizes the health and safety of our campus community and has high expectations for how all members of the university community, including students, behave in the interest of individual and community safety and wellbeing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The scene in Washington D.C. was very different on January 6, 2025 than it was four years before. Congress certified President-elect Donald Trumps election win with the only potential impediment was a snowstorm that could drop up to 10 inches of show on the U.S. capital. Four years earlier, scores of people initially protesting outside, broke into the U.S. Capitol building, threatening lawmakers, police officers, and delaying the official vote to certify the 2020 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than a dozen people with ties to the Kansas City metro were charged with federal crimes for their actions in D.C. that day and many of them have been convicted or already pleaded guilty. More than 100 Americans from all over the country are slated to go to trial in 2025. First US bird flu death reported in Louisiana, health officials say But, the incoming Trump Administration and President-Elect Trump himself have signaled all those cases and sentences could be wiped away. The president, whoever he may be or she may be, has broad authority to issue clemency and use the pardon power, said The Bates & Merryman Law Firm Partner Matthew Merryman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merryman is a federal defense attorney, and he says some people initially reached out to his firm early in the prosecution effort to figure out what to expect. Eventually, they retained representation in Washington D.C. when it became clear the Department of Justice (DOJ) would be bringing those cases there. What was so unprecedented about it was the sheer magnitude of individuals involved, said Merryman. The most recent DOJ information says more than 1,500 people from nearly all 50 states have been charged. Some are relatively minor offenses but others are serious felonies for threatening and attacking police officers. Concord woman warning others after accidentally gluing eye shut with nail glue Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Merryman says the process to undo those convictions and release people in prison for them could be swift. If [the Trump Administration] want[s] to make these peoples sentences go away, theyre going to be able to do it in very short order, said Merryman. Some of the people associated with the Kansas City Chapter of the Proud Boys organization were recently sentenced for January 6 charges. The federal government considers the Proud Boys a far-right, extremist organization. Ryan Ashlock from Lenexa was sentenced in 2022 to 70 days in prison. Christopher Kuehne from Olathe was sentenced in 2024 to 75 days in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louis Colon from Blue Springs was sentenced to two years probation in 2024. William Chrestman from Olathe was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison in January 2024. They admitted to breaking through police lines and threatening officers and Merryman says potential pardons could erase thousands of cases like these. Theyre undoing a lot of really hard work by individuals and most of the people that were charged and pled guilty accepted responsibility and said what they did was wrong, said Merryman. FOX4 Newsletters: Sign up for daily forecasts and Joes Weather Blog in your inbox Monday, the Proud Boys former national leader, Enrique Tarrios mother posted a letter sent to Trump asking for Enriques pardon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years in prison for his role organizing the Proud Boys on January 6, 2021. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) On Jan. 7, 2021, Maya Millete was last seen at her Chula Vista home. After a nine-month investigation, the 39-year-old mother of three was presumed dead by authorities. Tuesday marks four years since Mayas disappearance. Her children were released from the custody of their paternal grandparents and transferred over to the care of Mayas sister, Maricris Drouaillet, back in August. Drouaillet posted an update about the family dynamics in the Facebook page, Help Find Maya, on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timeline: The disappearance of Chula Vista mom Maya Millete We had longed to be with Mayas children for years. But when they came to live with us, they were not the same children we once knew, she said. Their guards were up, and hearts filled with negative perceptions of our family which made reconnecting with them on the emotional level seem almost impossible. But through patience, love, and support from the rest of our family and friends, we are seeing mountains move! she added. Drouaillet had been fighting to get legal guardianship over the children all under the age of 15 since they had been living with their fathers parents since her disappearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Above: Video of court granting custody of Maya Milletes children to her sister, Maricris Drouaillet, on Aug. 12, 2024) The childrens father and Mayas husband, Larry Millete, was arrested in October 2021 and is currently behind bars awaiting trial on homicide charges related to her disappearance. Former SDPD detective sues department with allegations of retaliation and abuse cover-up Larry, 43, and Maya reportedly had marital issues in the months leading up to her disappearance. Investigators said Larry discovered Maya had an affair, and in the days before she went missing, police said Maya had been taking steps to divorce him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If convicted, Larry could face life in prison. To read a timeline of the events leading up to Mayas disappearance and to when a judge ruled that Larry would stand trial, click here. As of Tuesday, according to the San Diego Superior Court, Larrys readiness hearing is set for April 21. The jury trial is scheduled for July 7. (Above: FOX 5 report from April 11, 2021 regarding loud bangs heard on surveillance footage from night Maya Millete went missing) In the update posted on Monday, Drouaillet said the children are starting to open up to her and the rest of Mayas family. The most important and meaningful behavior change are their small, unprompted gestures of affection like my husband getting a hug from Mayas eldest daughter for the first time in nearly four years, she said. The hug signified barriers breaking down and a family torn apart by a tragedy is finally coming together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family is hosting a virtual prayer Tuesday at 5:01 p.m. for Maya and her children. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Elizabeth Pineau PARIS (Reuters) - France on Tuesday commemorated the victims of the deadly assault on the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine 10 years ago that began a spate of Islamist militant attacks on the country and stoked a debate on press freedoms that still rages today. Two masked al Qaeda-linked gunmen with assault rifles stormed what were then the offices of Charlie Hebdo and killed 12 people. The attackers sought to avenge the Prophet Mohammad nearly a decade after the atheist and frequently provocative weekly published cartoons mocking the Prophet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The killings spurred an outpouring of national sympathy expressed in the slogan "Je Suis Charlie" (I am Charlie) and prompted an impassioned debate about freedom of expression and religion in secular France. "There were scenes I will never forget," former French President Francois Hollande told Reuters. "We had to act and we did so responsibly, aware that we weren't finished and that there would be other tragedies. And there were." President Emmanuel Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo will lead the commemorations, which include a wreath-laying ceremony and a minute's silence at three locations in the capital. Al Qaeda's Yemen branch had placed Charlie Hebdo's then editor, Stephane Charbonnier, on its "wanted list" after the magazine first ran the images of the Prophet Mohammad in 2006. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two attackers born and raised in France stormed Charlie Hebdo's offices on Jan. 7, 2015, spraying gunfire. They killed eight members of the editorial team, including Charbonnier, and four other people before being shot dead by police. Over the next two days, another French-born man killed a policewoman and four Jewish hostages in a kosher supermarket in a Paris suburb. He was also shot dead by police. More than 250 people have been killed in France in Islamist violence since then, laying bare the struggle the country has faced to counter the threat posed by militants. FREEDOM OF SPEECH The anniversary has prompted renewed reflection in France about press freedoms. Hollande expressed concern that there was growing self-censorship stemming from fear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Should we publish drawings, project certain images, or compile reports when we know they may hurt personalities or communities? There is a form of self-censorship that has taken root," he said. Charlie Hebdo published a special edition to mark the anniversary, depicting a man sitting on the butt of gun in front of the word "Indestructible!" on its cover. "Today the values of Charlie Hebdo - such as humour, satire, freedom of expression, ecology, secularism, feminism, to name a few - have never been so under threat," it said in an editorial. Charlie Hebdo's no-taboo journalism divides France. For Muslims any depiction of the Prophet Mohammad is blasphemous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics of Charlie Hebdo accuse it of crossing the line and straying into Islamophobia by repeatedly publishing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad. The magazine denies this and says it lampoons all religions, including Christianity. (Reporting by Elizabeth Pineau; writing by Marine Strauss; Editing by Richard Lough and Timothy Heritage) PARIS (AP) A decade after Islamic extremist gunmen stormed the offices of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo in a deadly assault that shook France to its core and ignited a global outcry in defense of freedom of speech, the nation paused on Tuesday to honor the victims and renew its resolve to fight for liberty and democracy. President Emmanuel Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo led solemn tributes at the site of the attack, where 12 people, including some of Frances most beloved cartoonists, were killed on Jan. 7, 2015. Among those remembered was Ahmed Merabet, a police officer who was gunned down on the street while defending the newspaper. In a poignant ceremony, Macron stood with his wife, Brigitte, alongside former President Francois Hollande, who had steered France through the aftermath of the attack. Macron joined police officers in laying wreaths of flowers against the wall of the former Charlie Hebdo headquarters in the 11th district and the gathering observed a minute of silence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lone trumpet played, resonating through a neighborhood scarred by that days bloodshed. France was plunged into a year of unparalleled terror, beginning with the Charlie Hebdo assault and culminating in the coordinated November 2015 attacks, when Islamic extremists opened fire on cafes in Paris before massacring spectators of a concert at the Bataclan, killing a total of 130 people. Two days after the Charlie Hebdo attack, a gunman stormed a Hypercacher kosher grocery store in Paris, killing four people and taking others hostage. The nation was left grieving, yet public gatherings became acts of resilience, defying fear and standing firm against violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The massacre at Charlie Hebdo, carried out by two brothers claiming allegiance to al-Qaida, signaled the dawn of a dark new chapter for France. A wave of extremist violence forced the country to reexamine its security measures. In the days following the attack, then German Chancellor Angela Merkel marched arm in arm with Hollande and other world leaders through the streets of Paris a powerful display of unity in defense of freedom of expression that reverberated far beyond French borders. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, speaking on RTL Tuesday, acknowledged how far France has come. while warning of the persistent dangers. France has rearmed considerably, but the threat is still there, he said, pointing to both external dangers and the rise of homegrown radicalization. The nature of the threat has changed, Retailleau added. It is now primarily endogenous young individuals radicalized through social media. Last year alone, our services foiled nine attacks, the highest number since 2017. The attacks impact continued to extend beyond France itself. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz shared a message of solidarity on social media, writing, #JeSuisCharlie spread around the world after the barbaric attack on Charlie Hebdo 10 years ago. Today, as then, we share the grief of our French friends. The attack targeted our shared values of freedom and democracywe will never accept this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attack on Charlie Hebdo, carried out in retaliation for the newspapers irreverent caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad, ignited fierce global debates about the limits of free expression. In the days that followed, millions marched in solidarity, brandishing pens and signs declaring, Je Suis Charlie (I am Charlie). But 10 years on, the unity of that moment has given way to deeper divisions. Charlie Hebdo said its research shows that while a majority of French still believe in the fundamental right to caricature, younger generations increasingly criticize satire they see as divisive or insensitive, particularly toward marginalized communities. Are we all still Charlie? one television special asked. For some, the answer is a resounding yes a tribute to those who paid the ultimate price for freedom of expression. For others, French media say, its a more complicated question. The newspaper remains unapologetic. Its 10th-anniversary edition features a cover cartoon of a reader perched on an AK-47, captioned Indestructible. In an editorial, the magazines director, Laurent Sourisseau, known as Riss, defended the power of satire. If you want to laugh, it means you want to live, he wrote. Ten years after the Islamist shooting attack on the Paris offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, France on Tuesday will commemorate the victims. In addition to President Emmanuel Macron and a number of ministers, the mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, will also take part in the commemoration at the publication's former headquarters. A total of 17 people were killed in the shooting at the magazine on January 7, 2015, as well as in connected attacks on a police officer and a kosher supermarket in the days that followed. The three perpetrators were shot and killed by security forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twelve people lost their lives in the attack on Charlie Hebdo alone, in which two brothers opened fire in the editorial office and caused a bloodbath. The paper had previously published caricatures of the prophet Mohammed that incensed parts of the Muslim world. The attacks in Paris at the beginning of 2015 were the start of a series of Islamist terrorist attacks in France in which more than 230 people were killed. France on Tuesday commemorated the victims of the Islamist shooting attack on the Paris offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo 10 years ago. A total of 17 people were killed in the shooting at the magazine on January 7, 2015, as well as in connected attacks on a police officer and a kosher supermarket in the days that followed. The three perpetrators were shot and killed by security forces. Twelve people lost their lives in the attack on Charlie Hebdo alone, in which two brothers opened fire in the editorial office and caused a bloodbath. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The paper had previously published caricatures of the prophet Mohammed that incensed parts of the Muslim world. President Emmanuel Macron, former president Francois Hollande, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou and a number of ministers took part in the commemoration in front of the former editorial building. At the request of the relatives, there were no speeches at Tuesday's wreath-laying ceremony. Most well-known French cartoonists killed Some of France's most famous cartoonists lost their lives in the attack on Charlie Hebdo. The attacks sparked outrage internationally. Demonstrations were held under the slogan "Je suis Charlie" (I am Charlie) in a bid to express solidarity with the victims. On January 11, 2015, almost 4 million people took part in rallies in France. Macron: No let-up in the fight against terrorism "We know that terrorism is a risk that continues to be present in our societies, which means that there must be no let-up, and collective vigilance is needed," Macron said on Monday in an address in which he referred to the attack on the magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There must therefore be no let-up in the fight against terrorism," Macron asserted. The attacks in Paris in early 2015 were the start of a series of Islamist terrorist attacks in France in which more than 230 people were killed. Trial opens in another case On Monday, a trial began in Paris for another attack in 2020 in front of the former editorial building of Charlie Hebdo. A 29-year-old man is on trial for using a knife to injure two people at the building in the belief that they were employees of Charlie Hebdo. He said his motive was the magazine's publication of new caricatures of Mohammed. He was unaware that the magazine had since moved to an undisclosed location. (Bloomberg) -- Frances Socialist Party is willing to compromise on the budget, opening a narrow path for Prime Minister Francois Bayrous new government to avoid collapse in its efforts to repair creaking public finances. Most Read from Bloomberg Ministers are negotiating with different political groups this week to urgently piece together a 2025 budget after the previous administration and its plans were toppled in a no-confidence vote in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We remain open to compromise because France needs a budget, Socialist party leader Olivier Faure said on France Inter on Tuesday. France needs to be governed and chaos would create an unfavorable situation for the poorest. The French Socialist party is part of a broader left-wing coalition that voted to oust Prime Minister Michel Barnier from power following a budget dispute. Bayrou replaced Barnier, becoming Frances fourth premier in a year. If Socialist lawmakers abstain from future censure ballots, it would likely be enough for Bayrous government and the budget to survive. The more conciliatory approach from the left is a step toward bypassing deep divisions in the National Assembly that have tipped France into a budget crisis in which the country is now reliant on emergency legislation to avoid a shutdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barniers government was evicted when Marine Le Pens far-right lawmakers and leftists from the New Popular Front coalition joined forces to pass a censure motion. The former premiers failed playbook involved offering concessions to Le Pen in a bid to get her to abstain. Bayrou has turned instead to the moderate elements of the NPF, including Socialists, Greens and Communists. While they would still not vote in favor of a budget, their abstention from no-confidence ballots could be enough to allow the adoption of finance bills. Still, Faure has said his party would censure the government unless it offers remarkable concessions compared to Barniers plans. In a bid to shore up support, Finance Minister Eric Lombard on Monday set out a slower pace of deficit reduction, but gave few details on how taxation and expenditure would be different. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2025 Bloomberg L.P. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) A bitter cold weather snap like this one can impact different businesses in different ways, and the hospitality industry is no exception. Visitors rolling into Frankfort had a warm welcome on a cold day when they checked into Springhill Suites in Frankfort. Springhill Suites Lexington-Frankfort general manager Alison Chenet said this weather adds some complexity to the day-to-day flow, but there are always workarounds. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: First and foremost, staff cant make it in. Those that can come in are working long shifts and covering multiple positions, Chenet said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the hospitality world, the service is too important to close doors completely, which is why the teams do what they can to make it happen. When the interstate has issues and shuts down and exits, people come off the road. We get additional business-weary travelers, people just looking to rest and stay warm, Chenet said. This dedication to serving is something travelers like Tammy Jasinski are thankful for, even if the weather didnt give her the warmest welcome to Kentucky. We actually came up from Florida, and were heading back to Wisconsin. We both thought, well, you know, we kind of thought in our heads that were coming back up to cool weather. The trip was a 17-hour trip, and luckily the snow had not started yet, Jasinski said. LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when it did, guests had a warm place to stay, even if the whole staff couldnt make it in. Our normal bartender lives on some serious back roads and cant make it into work tonight. If Im stuck here and my next shift cant come in, Ill be opening the bar, Chenet said. At its base, hotels are all about service, and its something staff like this can use to their advantage for a safe backup plan. Were lucky in that were a hotel. When you know ahead of time that a weather event is coming, we can offer rooms to our staff. Its an opportunity to show what we can do, Chenet 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 FOX 56 News. FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO) Citizens of Freeport are calling for a change to the citys form of governance, replacing the current City Manager with a full-time mayor. A coalition of concerned residents, led by Erin Hoskinson, have submitted 40 pages of signatures to the Stephenson County Circuit Court, calling for a return to a governmental body led by a mayor and city council. The city adopted the current Manager-Council system in May of 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freeport employs a part-time mayor, a post currently occupied by Jodi Miller. The petition asks for a referendum to be placed on the April 1st election ballot, asking voters to make a switch from the current system, which sees the citys day-to-day affairs overseen by City Manager Rob Boyer. Hoskinson said patterns of instability, diminished transparency, and allegations of corruption with the current form of governance were the impetus for her effort. A big part of the city manager position is that its supposed to provide stability throughout having different mayors in and out of office. But so far, we havent seen that, she said. It started out of just being a concerned citizen, hearing the peoples unhappiness with the current setup as it is. I felt that instead of just talking about it, what if we made a change? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Within four days, she collected almost 40 pages worth of signatures, something that drew the attention of the Stephenson County Democratic Party. I can safely say we feel strongly that the people of Freeport ought to be able to weigh in and say what the question is. This is not easy, to be able to get a bunch of signatures and to wade through this complex system, so we want to see that supported. We think people have a right to be able to give their voice, Vice Chair Kevin Lamm said. Its not about force change as much as its about asking a question. I think that its important to hear what the community wants moving forward so we can make a town where everybody feels like their voice is heard, Hoskinson said. A hearing to review the petition will take place on January 17th, in the Stephenson County Circuit Court. Judge Olson will rule on whether the petition meets the legal requirements to be on the ballot in the spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the referendum passes, the mayor will become the chief executive officer of the 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 MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Temperatures are set to plunge to some of the coldest levels of the winter season overnight, with widespread frost and freeze conditions expected across Marion County. Freezing temperatures expected overnight in parts of Central Florida Surrounding rural areas are also likely to see frost by morning. Read: Votes are in: Meet Poppy, the newly named pygmy hippo at Metro Richmond Zoo Residents are urged to bring pets indoors and cover plants in areas under a freeze warning to prevent damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Wekiva Island hosts craft beer and wine festival that offers attendees unlimited sips and samples The cold snap comes ahead of the next storm system, which is expected to bring rain as the weekend begins. Freezing temperatures expected overnight in parts of Central Florida Another cold front will follow, keeping temperatures chilly into next week. Freezing temperatures expected overnight in parts of Central Florida Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HARBIN, China (AP) Even as the mercury dropped well below freezing, enthusiasm soared among about a dozen hardy swimmers during a daily ritual in northeast Chinas ice city of Harbin. The swimmers trained daily throughout the year for this. They first carved out a pool in the Songhua River, breaking the 10-centimeter (4-inch) thick layer of ice that had formed again overnight and scooping out the pieces. Then they stripped down and, one by one, plunged into the bone-chilling waters of a pool about 10 meters (30 feet) long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some said their limbs were already numb in the -13 C (8 F) weather. Chen Xia, who came from Zhejiang province about 1,700 kilometers (1,000 miles) to the south, dived into the river even though she had a cold. She said the winter waters in her home city are warmer than those in Harbin, where the water temperature hovered around the freezing mark. The experience strengthened her confidence in winter swimming, a sport she has been devoted to for about two decades. I felt prickling all over my body, said Chen, 56. But it still made me feel blissful." Harbin resident Yu Xiaofeng said that winter swimming in her city can be dated back to the 1970s, after locals saw Russian Orthodox faithful being baptized in the river. The city is near the border with Russia. In 1983, Harbin's winter swimming association was established. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city is considered a holy land for winter swimming, she said, as the sport gained popularity here earlier than in other parts of China. Harbin is also known for its ongoing winter festival, which features giant ice and snow sculptures, and smaller, delicate ones too. Yu, 61, said she found a sense of a big family and joy during her three decades of swimming. Since the pandemic, we came up with a slogan: Rather suffer through winter swimming than line up at the hospital, she said, adding that winter swimmers appeared to have better health than others. You Decang, 76, said that swimming kept him healthy and he had never caught a cold. "If I go just one day without winter swimming, I feel quite uncomfortable, he said. ___ Olivia Zhang and Caroline Chen contributed to this report. Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of Frances far-right National Rally party, and father to French political leader Marine Le Pen, has died. He was 96. Le Pen founded National Rally, then called National Front, in 1972 as a right-wing populist movement and led the party until 2011. He stood for president five times, most successfully in 2002 when he shocked France by defeating Socialist candidate Lionel Jospin in the first round of voting, Jacques Chirac in the second round, the first time a far-right candidate had gotten that far. Le Pen was soundly defeated, with Chirac winning more than 82 percent of the vote. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A controversial figure his entire political life, Le Pen was convicted and fined several times for contesting and downplaying the crimes of the Holocaust, in violation of French law. He once infamously described the Holocaust, as a mere detail in the history of World War II, and repeatedly praised Frances wartime government at Vichy that collaborated with the Nazi occupying force. He was convicted and fined several times for contesting crimes against humanity including, in 2014, for suggesting the Ebola virus could be a solution to the global over-population. In 2016, he was convicted of provoking hatred and ethnic discrimination for a public statement that the Roma in Paris were rash-inducing. Last year, Le Pen faced charges, along with his daughter and other members of the National Rally party, for allegedly embezzling money from the European parliament. For health reasons, Jean-Marie Le Pen was excused from attending court to face the charges. Le Pen had three daughters with his first wife Pierrette. The youngest, Marine, succeeded him as head of the National Rally in 2011. Jean-Marie was made the lifetime honorary president of the party. But his daughter, in an effort to clean up her partys image and make it more appealing to French mainstream voters, tossed him out in 2015. Jean-Marie challenged the expulsion in court but was finally kicked out in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jean-Marie Le Pen is credited with pioneering a form of far-right extremist politics in Europe that many have seen as a model for such populist politicians including Viktor Orban in Hungary, Giorgia Meloni in Italy, Nigel Farage in the U.K., or incoming U.S. President Donald Trump. His daughter Marine successfully repackaged his fathers anti-immigrant, populist message for a broader audience and has been phenomenally successful. In Frances 2022 presidential election, she received 41.45 percent of the vote in the second round, the highest share of the vote for a nationalist candidate in French history, only narrowly losing to Emmanuel Macron. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A French army official confirmed to AFP on Jan. 6 that several dozen Ukrainian soldiers serving in the 155th "Anne of Kyiv" Mechanized Brigade deserted while undergoing military training in France. "There have been a certain number of desertions, but they remain very marginal given the volume of people who have undergone training," the unnamed official told AFP. "They were in French barracks, they had the right to go out," the added. The brigade is a flagship project under which Kyiv's partners will help train new Ukrainian military formations and provide heavy equipment. The unit has about 5,800 troops, fewer than 2,000 of whom have undergone training in France. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brigade has become plagued with controversy after media reports emerged of desertion and widespread mismanagement in recent days. A media investigation conducted by Ukrainian publication Censor.net claimed that soldiers of the unit, now deployed near Pokrovsk, have suffered losses and went AWOL (absent without leave) in large numbers due to poor command and organization on Ukraine's side. Yurii Butusov, the publication's chief editor, claimed about 50 deserted in France, in addition to hundreds who left their posts even before the unit was deployed at the front. Between March and November, over 1,700 soldiers had gone AWOL, Butusov claimed without providing evidence. Though the unit was replenished with new recruits, these often did not undergo "proper selection process," the journalist added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of Ukraines Ground Forces, acknowledged significant challenges within the French-trained brigade, including high desertion rates and poor organization in a press conference on Jan. 6. "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." Following the emergence of media reports, Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation on Jan. 2 launched a probe into suspected desertion and abuse of authority. On Jan. 5, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi ordered to boost the brigade with drones amid the reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report comes amid growing calls for reform within Ukraines military leadership as Kyiv grapples with intensifying pressure in its war with Russia. Read also: Negative lesson Ground Forces chief acknowledges desertions, mismanagement in French-trained brigade Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukraine's General Staff has reported that the 155th Mechanised Brigade named after Anna of Kyiv, a military unit that has undergone training in France, is performing combat missions on the Pokrovsk front in full strength, having been reinforced with drones and additional equipment. Source: General Staff in a comment to the Interfax-Ukraine news agency Quote: "This is a newly created brigade that has been trained in France and is gaining capabilities in the course of combat operations, having its own brigade defence line on the Pokrovsk front." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The General Staff stated that the Ukrainian Armed Forces Command had initiated an inspection into the 155th Brigade over cases of unauthorised abandonment of service by some soldiers, even before related media reports emerged. The command also stated that measures are being taken to improve discipline and the psychological well-being of the brigade's soldiers. "These measures have helped reduce the number of desertion cases. The brigade's units are now receiving additional equipment and have been reinforced with unmanned systems units," the General Staff said. 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. Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, stated that he had focused on strengthening the capabilities of the 155th Mechanised Brigade's unmanned systems units and addressing "problematic issues that need to be resolved." A French army official confirmed incidents of desertion among Ukrainian soldiers undergoing training in France. Support UP or become our patron! Many residents of the Center of Family Love in Okarche waited by the window each day for the arrival of a beloved Catholic nun, hoping to be among the first to greet and hug the woman some of them called "Mama." The center, which provides lifetime care to individuals with developmental disabilities, has joined many in the Catholic faith community and the community at large in mourning Sister Veronica Higgins, 74, a Carmelite sister who died Jan. 2 in a car accident in Canadian County. "She was the spiritual guide for all of us and the mother to all her precious children here at Center of Family Love," Debbie Espinosa, president and chief executive officer of the Center of Family Love, said in a statement. Sister Veronica Higgins says a prayer before the Mass for the Dedication of a Church and Altar at the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in 2023. "Our residents called her 'mama,' an endearing name that she cherished. It melted her heart to know they saw her as their mother at Center of Family Love." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Higgins was driving a car west on State Highway 3 around 3:20 p.m. Jan. 2, about 4 miles south of Okarche, when her vehicle left the road, hit a tree and came to a stop in a creek. The Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, archbishop of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, announced Higgins' death on several social media platforms. "Please pray for the repose of the soul of Sister Veronica, the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese, and all who grieve her passing," he said. "Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord." In a 2016 story featured in The Oklahoman, Higgins talked about her life and faith journey as she prepared to celebrate the 40th anniversary of her vows. She said she came to Oklahoma from Tennessee in 1976 to become a Carmelite Sister with the Carmelite of St. Therese of the Infant Jesus religious order based in Oklahoma City. She told The Oklahoman she converted to Catholicism from Methodism and she was the only Black Carmelite sister when she arrived to join the religious order in 1976 because another Black woman at the religious order did not end up taking her vows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Higgins was working as a case manager at the Center of Family Love at the time of her death, and many Oklahoma City metro area community members also knew her as one of the teachers, and for about nine years, the principal at Villa Teresa, a beloved private Catholic school that was located in Midtown before it was closed by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in 2012, after more than 80 years in the community. Those who knew her well said Higgins was known for her love of music, her guitar, her bubbly personality and her devotion to Christ and the Catholic Church. Sister Barbara Joseph Foley, mother superior of the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese of the Infant Jesus, and Nolan Reilly, director of music at Our Lady's Cathedral, both spoke of her contagious smile. "No matter where she was or who she was with, she drew energy from others," Reilly said. "She was happiest in a crowd and she loved making new friends." Foley said Higgins' smile lit up her face and she was "gifted in so many ways." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a beautiful life that she gave to everybody," Foley said. Foley, 72, said many people knew Higgins at the Center of Family Love, Villa Teresa and other places where she served, but she got to see her away from the public. Foley said Higgins was her postulate director and novice director when she entered the Carmelite Sisters' convent in the mid-1990s when she was middle aged. She said she was able to see Higgins live out her Christian witness behind the scenes just as faithfully as she did in public. "I got to see her faithfulness and her prayer life how she lived her life as a consecrated religious is probably what a lot of people didn't see," Foley said. "She touched my life." Reilly said he had known Higgins since he was a child and she encouraged him throughout the years as he became a professional musician. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Before I moved to the cathedral, she would check in around every major holiday or every major event, to make sure that I was doing OK and taking care of myself," he said. "I would always say, 'Oh, Sister, you're so sweet to think of me,' and she'd say, 'Oh, you musicians, you're my people. I have to check in.'" Reilly said she loved to sing and she was committed to singing in the choir at Our Lady's, where she served as a longtime choir member. "She never missed anything, really if it was bad weather or medical events no matter what, it was impossible to keep her away," Reilly said. More: Outlook 2020: 'God has no hands but ours,' Sister Veronica Higgins says A 'tireless' advocate Foley said Higgins was always on the go and "If she believed in something, she prayed like a prayer warrior." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I would say she was more than 100% in everything she got involved in," Foley said. Reilly said that's how she was when she was advocating for "people on the margins" like the poor, immigrants and individuals on death row. "I don't think anybody should ever confuse that sweetness or her gentle nature with weakness because she was one of the most powerful people I know, and it was a very subtle strength," he said. "She was a tireless advocate for people on the margins. She was always writing open letters to defend people on death row or immigrants or the poor, and I really feel like people in the margins were her heart." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Rev. Don Heath, chair of the Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty, said Higgins was a well-known and vocal critic of the death penalty. More: Nun known for role as school leader in Oklahoma prepares to celebrate her 40th anniversary of vows Meanwhile, Center of Family Love leader Espinosa said she knew where Higgins wanted to be at long last. "If she cannot be with her precious children here at the Center of Family Love, we know there is no place that Sister would rather be than in the arms of Jesus," Espinosa said. Vigil Service will be at 6 p.m. Jan. 10, at Our Lady's Cathedral, 3214 N Lake Drive. Mass of Christian burial is set for 9 a.m. Jan. 11 at Our Lady's. A reception will be held in Connor Center adjacent to the cathedral, followed by a private burial. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Friends, community respond to death of Sister Veronica Higgins HONOLULU (KHON2) The Friends of the Library of Hawaii will host their annual music and book sale at Washington Middle Schools cafeteria from Jan. 18 to 20. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You FLHs event, which is presented by Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, will be in its 14th year with tens of thousands records, CDs, books and other forms of media being available to shoppers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are school zone speed limits enforced during summer? Proceeds from the sale will support 51 public libraries across the islands. Fundraisers like this one provide extra resources that are not provided in the regular state budget, such as programs. The sale will begin at 9 a.m. each day, with the sale ending at 7 p.m. on Jan. 18 and 19, and ending at 3 p.m. on Jan. 20. For more information about the music and book sale, visit their 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 KHON2. Tuesday: High pressure will move north of Alabama between Wednesday and Thursday continuing to send very cold northerly winds across the state. Wednesday will be mostly sunny and frigid. High temperatures will be in the upper 30s. Thursday will become partly cloudy with more frigid air and highs in the lower 40s. Lows will be in the upper teens to lower 20s each night. ***Weather Aware Thursday Night through Friday*** Our next weathermaker 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. A light glaze is possible for the AM Commute on bridges, and some snow accumulation is likely for areas north of Birmingham. 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. The rain could change back to snow flurries Friday night as the low moves northeast into Georgia. Lows will be in the upper 20s to lower 30s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: 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. A fugitive gunman who fled the country after killing a Brooklyn teen more than three years ago has been hauled back to the U.S. from Trinidad and Tobago to face justice, prosecutors said Monday. Anthony Regis-Ash went on the run after shooting 18-year-old Sharif Richards as the teen sat in an Infiniti in Canarsie, leaving his girlfriend behind to face murder charges in the Sept. 29, 2021, slaying, prosecutors in Brooklyn said. Regis-Ash, 24, was arrested in the Cunupia area of Trinidad on Oct. 9, a few months after U.S authorities asked officials in the dual-island Caribbean nation for help extraditing him. He was formally extradited on Dec. 22, and indicted on murder and other charges Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richards was sitting in the drivers seat of the Infiniti, near Foster Ave. and E. 80th St. in Canarsie when he was shot. The 2020 Erasmus High School graduate had been expected to begin an electrical engineering program in the fall, family members told the Daily News. Police arrested Regis-Ashs alleged accomplice Amari Harvey, 21, in January 2022, grabbing her at Kennedy Airport right before she boarded a flight to Trinidad and Tobago. After her arrest, she laid the blame on her boyfriend and said she was selling Richards pot when the gunman pulled the trigger, according to a criminal complaint. Video from the scene shows Harvey get out of Regis-Ashs 2015 Nissan on E. 78th St., between Farragut and Glenwood Roads, then walk down the block to meet Richards, according to prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harvey can be seen getting into Richards car, and a minute later, Regis-Ash, sporting a hoodie and a mask, leans into the vehicle in an attempt to rob the teen, prosecutors said. Investigators also have text messages between Richards and both suspects, prosecutors said. The brutal ambush and murder of 18-year-old Sharif Richards in Canarsie was a heinous act of violence that shattered a young life and devastated a family, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said Monday. By extraditing the alleged perpetrator from Trinidad and Tobago, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring that this kind of callous disregard for human life is met with the full force of justice. Regis-Ash was arraigned in Brooklyn Supreme Court, where Justice Donald Leo ordered him held without bail. He faces the possibility of 25 years to life behind bars if convicted. A lawyer for Regis-Ash declined comment. Harvey, who still faces murder and other charges, remains held on $1 million cash bail or $2 million bond. Lt. Gov. Buddy MacKay takes the oath of office to become governor of Florida in 1998. His wife Anne and his son John joined him. Florida Supreme Court Justice Charles Wells swears MacKay in at the Capitol. (Photo via State Library of Florida) A celebration honoring former Florida Gov. Buddy MacKay will be held next Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 1 p.m. at Fort King Presbyterian Church in Ocala. Thats according to the Ocala Star Banner. A reception will follow the service, and all are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in MacKays honor to the Florida Wildflower Foundation (flawildflowers.org), Interfaith Emergency Services (iesmarion.org), or Fort King Presbyterian Church (ftkingchurch.org) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MacKay died in his sleep on Dec. 31 while at home, surrounded by his family. He was 91 years old. An Ocala native, MacKay is best known for his short time serving as Floridas last Democratic governor. As the lieutenant governor at the time, he served from Dec. 13, 1998, to Jan. 5, 1999, following the death of Gov. Lawton Chiles on Dec. 12, 1998. MacKay was elected as Floridas lieutenant governor in 1990 and served in that role from 1991 to 1998. He ran as the Democratic Partys candidate for governor in 1998, losing to Republican Jeb Bush. MacKay was born in Ocala in 1933 and obtained both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Florida. He spent time in the U.S. Air Force, obtaining the rank of captain. He was first elected to the Florida House in 1968 and then moved on to the state Senate in 1974. MacKay was elected to a central Florida congressional seat in 1982, where he served until 1989. In 1999, President Bill Clinton appointed MacKay as the U.S. Special Envoy for the Americas, a position he held until 2001. In that role, he worked to strengthen diplomatic relations and promoted economic cooperation throughout the Western Hemisphere. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Some furloughed and former Canoo employees are raising more concerns this week, this time having to do with Canoos CEO and a separate company he owned, which they say never paid Canoo back millions of dollars it owed the electric vehicle manufacturer for making upgrades to a warehouse. A Canoo spokesperson denied the other company failed to pay Canoo back. News 4 reported last month when electric vehicle manufacturer Canooa publicly traded company announced it had furloughed its remaining workers in Oklahoma and would be idling its two plants in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former employee: Canoo never built vehicles in Oklahoma, most employees never moved to Oklahoma A high-level Canoo furloughed employee, who worked in Canoos Oklahoma City manufacturing plant, told News 4 Canoos CEO also owned a Texas-based company, which Canoo was renting the warehouse from. The furloughed employee says that company owed Canoo millions of dollars, but never paid it back. In an exclusive interview with News 4, the furloughed employeewho asked News 4 not to share his identitysays he and other have questions surrounding the connections between the two companies, and Canoos CEO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The furloughed employee reflected on his time working in Canoos warehouse, off I-40 in Oklahoma City. You know, there was there was a lot of great days in there, the furloughed employee said. He remembers all and his colleagues accomplished I watched them do integration and start building the captain lines, he said. I was strongly under the belief that we were moments away from pumping vehicles out of the doors. All for it to come to an abrupt end, with this furloughed Canoo employee now having nothing to show for it. And we still fall short, the furloughed employee said. If you had asked me that we would end up where we are today, theres no possible way that I could have ever foreseen that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The furloughed employee spent the bulk of his time at Canoos warehouse in Oklahoma City. Furloughed worker: Canoo still owes employees thousands for final paychecks, expensed purchases; company not answering It was supposed to be home Canoos state-of the art factory, used to assemble its electric vehicles. A different, former Canoo employee News 4 spoke with says he helped Canoo leaders scout the site. I did the walk through on that before we ever purchased it, the former employee told News 4. He says theres a bit of a caveat: Canoo didnt technically make the purchase, and didnt ever own the building at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tony has a separate company, the former Canoo employee said. Theyre the company that actually owns the building, and Canoo rents from them. Tonyis Tony Aquila, Canoos CEO. In addition to Canoo, Aquila owns another Texas-based company, called AFV Partners. Aquila Family Ventures, the furloughed Canoo employee said. Its a property management company. News 4 obtained a copy of the lease Canoo signed in 2023 to rent the warehouse. It shows Canoo leased the building from a company called I-40 OKC Partners, LLC. According to a 2023 Canoo press release, I-40 OKC Partners, LLC. Is an affiliate of AFV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So AFV is the property owners of the building, the furloughed employee said. The furloughed employee told News 4, a man who worked as the property manager for Canoos Oklahoma City warehouse was an AFV employee, but drew his salary from Canoos payroll. He works for AFV, but he has a Canoo paycheck, the furloughed employee said. So he basically is on Canoo payroll. Former employee with Canoo prior to Oklahoma relocation says state leaders missed signs company was bad investment The furloughed Canoo employee told news 4 the Oklahoma City building was pretty much an empty shell when Canoo leased it in need of a lot of work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets just talk about the amount of electricity needed to run a manufacturing facility, the furloughed employee said. When Canoo moved into that facility, there was no way that they were going to run automation with the amount of electric available that they had. Its why, the furloughed employee says, the lease included a clause, in which AFV promised to pay Canoo millions of dollars in tenant improvement funds to fix the place up. He says Canoo workers got hard to work doing just that. The maintenance team I watched them work six, seven days a week from May til September, 10 to 12 hour days, putting in all these structures and saving the company millions of dollars by integrating everything in-house, the furloughed employee said. I witnessed the entire maintenance team install the general assembly line, which, you know, basically is the entire line that builds the skateboards out once the frame is built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He saysright nowthe facility has everything in place, ready to start pumping out cars. If they had the money for parts and they had the money for labor, they could absolutely build vehicles, he said. The money part is where things start to get complicated. The furloughed employee said, when the time came for AFV the company owned by Canoos own CEO to pay Canoo back the millions of dollars for upgrading the building Well, they never paid that money back, he said. It was a move the furloughed employee says didnt make much sense. You would think that youd want those two partners to get along and to work together, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lately, he thinks a lot about his colleagues I feel like there was a lot of honest people, and there are a lot of people that cared, the furloughed employee said. Electric vehicle company Canoo facing breach of contract lawsuit All that hard work they put in. There was a lot of us that put our heart and soul into it, he said. A lot of us that obviously invested our own money into it, not just in stocks, but to keep the place going. Only to come out with nothing. Im just praying for all the people that were furloughed and that they, you know, find something, something else, he said. He also thinks a lot about Canoos leaders, and what theyll come out with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People like CEO Tony Aquila. My guess is, is he files bankruptcy and everything thats under the roof goes to AFV, which is a company that he owns, and he owns everything afterwards, the furloughed employee said. Canoo furloughs workers, idles factory He thinks about AFVs apparent decision to not pay Canoo back. We borrowed from Peter to pay Paul, he said. He thinks, maybe, things couldve been different. Had they paid that money back, maybe wed all still be there, he said. I dont know. News 4 reached out to Canoos spokesperson Monday and asked if the company or its leadership had anything they want to share with News 4 in response to all of these concerns. A Canoo spokesperson responded with a statement after News 4s publishing deadline on Monday night, denying AFVs affiliate company failed to pay back Canoo for the warehouse upgrades. This is false, the Canoo spokesperson said. I-40 OKC Partners LLC has repaid to Canoo all amounts due for improvements made and services provided to the Oklahoma facility. We can confirm the employee referred to was a prior employee of AFV OKC Management LLC and is currently employed by Canoo. News 4 asked the spokesperson to confirm the exact amount I-40 OKC Partners paid Canoo, and the date they paid Canoo. The spokesperson has not responded as of publishing on Monday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two people were arrested and are facing drug charges following a car chase in Barrow County on Saturday. At about 3 p.m. on Saturday, deputies with the Bartow County Sheriffs Office chased a car into Gordon County on Interstate 75. Gordon County deputies ended the pursuit near exit 317. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] No one was injured. When they searched the suspects car, police said they found illicit drugs and related material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Devonte Brown, 23, and Ronqusha Groves, 23, of Madison, Tennessee were arrested and charged with trafficking Schedule II controlled substances. Brown also faces many traffic-related charges as well as charges in Bartow County. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A garbage truck crashed into a bank in Butler Tuesday morning. The crash happened around 8:45 a.m. at the Armco Credit Union on Hollywood Drive in the Pullman Center Business Park. Officials on scene confirmed the driver of the garbage truck was taken to a hospital. Channel 11 learned the garbage truck lost control while going down the steep hill on Randolph, then crossed a busy intersection and went down an embankment before crashing right before the bank was set to open. An employee inside the building was nearly hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its kind of crazy we just got here and just wanted to... go to the bank and this is not something you see everyday thats for sure, bank customer Don Olean said. Armco officials say at least 60 employees were inside at the time of the crash and no one was hurt. Someone saw the truck and was able to warn other employees. they were working on the drive-thru and looked up the hill and saw this truck coming down and he was honking his horn and they yelled real quick to get out of the way, said Randy Cypher, the CEO of Armco Credit Union. The two stations that were hit by the garbage truck, one teller was off to the side sweeping and when it went through the other teller was an arms length of the garbage truck. The bank is closed until further notice. Crews are expected to remove the truck from the building on Wednesday, then an engineer will secure the building and assess the damage. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW The use of gender-affirming medical care for trans teens was rare between 2018 to 2022, according to a new study published in JAMA Pediatrics. Roughly 0.1% of gender non-conforming teens used puberty blockers and/or hormone therapy in an analysis of over 5 million medical claims during this time period, according to the report. No adolescents under age 12 received gender-affirming medications, according to the analysis of these claims. Transgender youth make up 1.4% of the population between the ages of 13 to 17, according to research from UCLA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This new research comes as some Republican lawmakers across the country attempt to restrict gender-affirming care for transgender youth, in part on the basis that the rates of gender-affirming care are too high or unfounded claims that young children are getting surgeries. In the 2024 legislative session, the ACLU recorded 79 efforts to restrict gender-affirming youth care. A separate study by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found little to no usage of gender-affirming surgeries by transgender and gender-diverse minors in the U.S., instead finding that cisgender minors and adults had substantially higher utilization of such gender-affirming surgeries than their transgender counterparts. PHOTO: Transgender people and allies of trans youth hold signs at the Idaho Capitol at a celebration rally after the Senate killed a 2022 bill criminalizing gender-affirming care. (Sarah A. Miller/Idaho Statesman/Tribune News Service via Getty Images) MORE: Transgender youth care misconceptions lead physicians, researchers to set the record straight Of the 5,155,282 medical claims records analyzed, 21 per 100,000 adolescents assigned female at birth and 15 per 100,000 adolescents assigned male at birth received puberty blockers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report found that 50 per 100,000 in adolescents assigned female at birth and 25 per 100,000 in adolescents assigned male at birth received hormones. Medical organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and others say gender-affirming care is safe, effective, beneficial, and may be medically necessary for some transgender youth. Puberty blockers are used to delay the development of certain physical characteristics, such as the growth of breasts and facial hair. Experts say this allows children to explore their gender and determine the appropriate course of action. It is often used on cisgender children who experience puberty earlier than what is typical, according to health professionals. Once blockers are stopped, puberty continues with little to no proven side effects, according to health professionals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Researchers also told ABC News that hormone therapies are given to older patients who, based on WPATH standards, have gone through a thorough list of evaluations, discussions and approvals before receiving such care. PHOTO: Teens from various areas of Kentucky gather in front of the Kentucky Capitol Annex building on March 29, 2023, to protest against SB150 which would ban gender-affirming health care for transgender teens. (Marcus Dorsey/Lexington Herald-Leader/Tribune News Service via Getty Images) MORE: Protests outside of Supreme Court capture growing fears for transgender Americans "Despite its safety and effectiveness, gender-affirming medical care for adolescents who identify as [transgender and gender diverse] is a polarizing topic, with nearly half of US states enacting laws to limit access," read the report. Some advocates in favor of care restrictions argue there needs to be more research on these practices, or that transgender patients should wait until they're older to access such care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LGBTQ advocates against these laws argue they are concerned about the impact such bans can have on the mental and physical well-being of transgender youth, who they claim already disproportionately face discrimination and violence. Gender-affirming care for teens is rare amid debate over access: Study originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Deals involving the data center sector are occurring regularly, as tech companies make moves to ensure they have a reliable supply of power for their energy-intensive operations. Several generation types, both thermal and renewable, are being touted and pursued by groups involved with artificial intelligence (AI), data management, and cloud computing. Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Meta, and others are looking at nuclear power, including small modular reactors (SMRs), along with renewable energy resources. Some companies are signing power purchase agreements (PPAs) with operators of natural gasfired power plants, and analysts say demand for power from data centers could keep some coal-fired power plants online past their scheduled retirement dates. POWER has talked with several energy industry leaders over the past several months about the ongoing and future impacts of electricity demand from AI and data centers, and much of their insight can be found on POWER's website. An important piece of the puzzle for those in the power generation sector is what fuels and technologies will be used to generate that power, and how utilities and grid operators will manage resources to maintain a reliable and resilient power grid in the face of an exponential increase in electricity demand. Using AI to Support AI Supratik Chaudhuri, Power and Utilities Lead of Publicis Sapient, a digital transformation consulting partner and software engineering group, told POWER that power grids can be managed more efficiently through the use of AI, which also could help mitigate issues caused by increased demand from data centers. The integration of AI into power grid management represents a transformative leap forward. AI can not only make decisions in specific scenarios [such as demand-side management when supply is lower], but it also empowers decision-makers with insights that enable quicker responses, said Chaudhuri. This capability is particularly beneficial as future energy supplies become more volatile with an increasing share of renewables in the generation mix. AIs ability to analyze vast amounts of data from sources such as sensors and smart meters allows for more precise demand forecasting and load balancing. This enables utilities to predict and respond to energy consumption patterns more effectively, reducing the risk of outages and enhancing grid stability. Chaudhuri continued, Additionally, AI-driven predictive maintenance can identify potential equipment failures before they occur, minimizing downtime, maintenance costs, and revenue losses. Some clients are also using AI to improve the quality of their asset and maintenance data, which helps work crews perform field jobs more effectively. Finally, as AI and machine learning technology continue to mature, they will also self-evolve, making our systems more adept at handling energy pressures and uncovering new ways to reduce them. Nuclear Power Technology companies themselves can be proactive in supporting specific types of power generation. Amazons direct investment in nuclear technology and the proposed nuclear plant at Energy Northwest is a much-needed boost for the [nuclear] industry, said Grant Grothen, a principal at engineering company Burns & McDonnell. While many tech companies have committed to long-term PPAs, these agreements alone do not provide the financial backing necessary for new reactor developers to navigate the lengthy and costly licensing process. Amazons deal with Energy Northwest, a consortium of public utility districts and municipalities across Washington state, was among three the company inked in mid-October to support development and deployment of SMRs. The company also said it had made an equity investment in nuclear technology group X-energy (Figure 1), and had signed a separate memorandum of understanding with Dominion Energy to look at SMR development in Virginiathe state that leads the U.S. in data center sites. [caption id="attachment_227587" align="aligncenter" width="740"] 1. X-energys reactor technology, including the companys advanced small modular reactors, is being touted to provide power for data centers. Courtesy: X-energy[/caption] Grothen told POWER its important for reactor developers to have funding in place to further their research. Delaying investment until a project is largely de-risked puts most of the risk and burden back on the reactor company, Grothen said. Challenges remain, such as refining the NRC [Nuclear Regulatory Commission] licensing process, ensuring HALEU [high-assay low-enriched uranium] fuel availability, and securing government funding support, but this investment is a significant step forward and were excited by the progress and opportunities. Natural Gas EQT Corp., a natural gas production company operating in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, in a recent post-earnings call said new projected data centers and coal plant retirements could boost U.S. natural gas demand by up to 10 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) by 2030. This demand will be regional, with more than half likely to come from the Southeast in the PJM [Interconnection] markets, said Jeremy Knop, EQTs CFO. PJM Interconnection is the largest U.S. power grid operator. EQT, which is one of the largest U.S. natural gas producers, said the company has restarted all previously curtailed production. It also in late October announced it had sold non-operated natural gas assets in northeast Pennsylvania to Equinor, Norways state-owned energy group. A major buildout of new natural gas-fired generation is planned across the U.S., in part to satisfy the power needs of the data center and artificial intelligence sector. Read "Hundreds of New Gas-Fired Power Units Planned as U.S. Gas Output Soars." Recent developments also include news from American Electric Power (AEP), a Midwestern utility that said it would use fuel cells (Figure 2) to support the power supply for data centers. The company signed a deal with California-based Bloom Energy in November; Bloom could supply as much as 1 GW of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) capacity to AEP over the next several years. The deal includes an initial order of 100 MW in SOFCs in 2025, and the companies called it the largest commercial utility deal for fuel cells to date. The agreement is earmarked for the growing market for data centers in central Ohio. AEP earlier in 2024 said it has about 15 GW of load commitment from data center projects in its pipeline. [caption id="attachment_227589" align="aligncenter" width="740"] 2. Bloom Energy and electric utility American Electric Power (AEP) have an agreement in which Blooms fuel cells could help provide power for data centers in the utilitys territory in central Ohio. Courtesy: Bloom Energy[/caption] The rapid increase in energy demand is a challenge that AEP is tackling by finding innovative solutions to meet the unique needs of our customers, said AEP CEO and President Bill Fehrman in a statement. These fuel cells will help provide data centers and other large customers with the power they need to quickly expand in our regulated footprint as we continue to build infrastructure to deliver reliable energy for all our customers. Bloom Energy in a statement said, AEP will deploy the SOFCs as a customer-sited resource where there are delays/constraints in delivering 100% of a customers power requirements via the grid. The SOFCs can be deployed as supplemental grid power or as a microgrid. Bloom Energy said the first fuel cells will use natural gas. Solar Power Mary Powell, CEO of Sunrun, a California-based solar power and energy storage group, in late October said the company is talking with data center developers about supplying solar power generation for their facilities. Powell, speaking at the Dervos 2024 conference in Brooklyn, New York, said Sunrun is considering a couple different really cool models to providing solar power to tech firms. Powell said that could include partnering with utilities to provide bespoke solar power systems for data centers. It also could involve using existing Sunrun systems to provide needed electricity. Powell said her company has non-disclosure agreements and would not talk about possible partners, but did say, Its just a radical collaboration that has incredible benefits for everyone. The Dervos conference is focused on distributed energy resources (DERs), and modeled after the annual Davos economic forum. Ben Rapp, strategic product development manager at Rehlko (formerly Kohler Energy), an energy solutions group, told POWER: As a use case, data centers represent a sector to watch in terms of growth and successful deployments. In an industry that requires constant uptime to maintain consistency of the technology that powers our lives, data center operators are constantly looking at the best ways to stay up and running in the event of unplanned outages. Theyre also searching for the most cost and energy savings. DERs have become good options for facilities like hospitals and military bases, and we see them becoming an option for data centers as well. Rapp said, Optimizing usage with DERs can be one of the biggest questions facing data center operators, noting the DERs could include battery energy storage systems (BESS), or solar and wind power. They need to understand what their load profile looks like and have quality data to demonstrate where their energy demands are. Unlike some other types of DER applications, data centers have a consistently high load profile. Some renewable sources of energy must be carefully considered because they may not always be the ideal option to provide constant power. Balance between dispatchable and non-dispatchable assets, and understanding how that fits together with a very consistent load profile, is key to understanding how DERs work for data center use cases. Energy Markets and Trades Energy marketers and traders also have an interest in power demand from data centers and its impact on the power supply and electricity prices. Mike Naughton, CEO of Ohio-based energy broker Integrity Energy, told POWER, The greatest opportunity for SMR applications in Ohio currently is to combat the rising energy demands of data centers. Central Ohio has become a hotspot for data center mega-campuses. Naughton said, Throughout the central [U.S.] heartland, tech giants like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Meta have each invested billions of dollars to develop new data centers, focusing on areas like Columbus and New Albany [in Ohio]. Between 2020 and 2024, data center energy demands have already increased sixfold, from 100 MW to 600 MW. By 2030, officials estimate that Ohio data centers will demand a staggering 5,000 MW. Naughton noted, The energy infrastructure in Ohio is struggling as well. Our recent utility auctions with PJM Interconnection saw an 833% increase in capacity charges because the state is decommissioning older power plants without replacing them. The dramatic increase in costs affects residents and small businesses significantly more than tech giants. Naughton added, Were hoping that the developing data center economy in central Ohio contributes to a more resilient electrical grid by investing in nuclear-powered data centers. SMRs are an ideal solution for Ohios current electrical demand challenges. Once reliability and costs are under control, the state can explore additional SMR applications. Foreign Investment DataBank, which provides edge colocation, interconnection, and managed services, and operates more than 65 data centers in nearly 30 markets, in mid-October announced a $2 billion equity raise led by AustralianSuper, Australias largest superannuation fund, with a global asset portfolio of about $40 billion. AustralianSuper, which committed $1.5 billion to the equity raise, will become a significant minority owner of Texas-headquartered DataBank and will join the companys board of directors. The investment in DataBank (Figure 3) would be AustralianSupers first in the U.S. data center market and the second alongside existing DataBank investor DigitalBridge, a global digital infrastructure investment firm headquartered in Florida. DataBank in the past year has announced three new data center campuses, one each in Texas, Virginia, and Georgia. [caption id="attachment_227591" align="aligncenter" width="740"] 3. DataBank, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a major player in the data center market. The company in October announced an equity raise led by an Australian superannuation fund. Courtesy: DataBank[/caption] We are delighted to have AustralianSuper join our investors, said Raul Martynek, DataBanks CEO. Along with the continued support of our existing investors, its a vote of confidence in our strategy and our proven ability to execute and scale the DataBank platform. This investment, and our new campuses, are a game-changer for DataBank and our customers, allowing us to bring this capacity to market now and seize the incredible opportunity ahead of us. Our investment in DataBank comes at an exciting time in its growth trajectory with strong tailwinds across the sector, coupled with DataBanks ambitious expansion program and diverse business base, said Derek Chu, head of American Real Assets at AustralianSuper. Were delighted to be helping DataBank, and its experienced leadership team, capitalize on the unprecedented demand for cloud and AI infrastructure. DataBank will grow and further diversify our global digital infrastructure exposure, a sector we believe will help deliver sustainable, long-term performance for more than 3.4 million members. DataBank has raised more than $4 billion in debt and equity over the past year. DigitalBridge, meanwhile, recently announced an agreement to acquire UK-based data center developer Yondr Group. Yondrs assets and strong relationships with leading hyperscale clients align with DigitalBridges vision to support the future of digital infrastructure, said Jon Mauck, senior managing director at DigitalBridge. Yondr enhances our existing data center portfolio and strengthens our ability to support hyperscalers. Together, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for hyperscale data centersfueled by AI, cloud computing, and the ongoing digital transformation across industries. Optimizing Energy Supply and Demand Chaudhuri, whose company specializes in AI-powered digital business transformation, noted the challenge of satisfying increasing demand for power without compromising energy. He said strains on utility infrastructure must be addressed, and said the increased power needs from AI technologies will require smarterand more adaptableways to build and operate data centers efficiently and sustainably. As we transition to a more decentralized and renewable energy landscape, managing volatility on both the supply and demand sides will become increasingly complex, said Chaudhuri. Customers and regulators value reliability and affordability, and expect these to be achieved in the most sustainable way possible. AI will play a critical role in integrating diverse energy sourcesfrom solar and wind to nuclear and battery storageand optimizing the operation of these resources, ensuring they work harmoniously to provide a stable and sustainable energy supply. Furthermore, AI can facilitate the development of smarter grids that are adaptive and responsive to real-time conditions, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. The future of energy is one where AI not only supports but drives the evolution toward a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable energy ecosystem. Its true that while AI holds tremendous potential to transform grid management and operations, it also requires substantial energy, said Chaudhuri. Some estimate that AI data centers will demand more than five times the power of traditional facilities, with renewables alone unlikely to meet this demand. As the infrastructure supporting AI expands and more energy-intensive data centers are built, its crucial to provide not only reliable power but also sustainable and efficient green power. Chaudhuri continued, Several approaches are in play to optimize the energy needs of AI, including increasing the share of renewables in the energy supply mix for data centers. From a locational perspective, the industry and regulators should consider siting data centers in areas where power congestion is lower, and infrastructure build-up is faster [or where approvals can be accelerated]. Increasingly, data centers are integrating captive energy supplies, especially solar, which reduces reliance on grid power. Data centers can also use AI to run more power-intensive computing tasks [like GenAI training models] when supply is higher, and power prices are lower, distributing demand more evenly throughout the day, said Chaudhuri. New data centers are exploring novel cooling technologies as well as more efficient computing architectures, such as Nvidias recently announced Blackwell platform, which promises to use 25 times less energy and cost than currently available architectures. Chaudhuri noted that the use of AI to support AI, while important, will not replace a thorough consideration of how to balance power supply with demand. Of course, its essential to recognize that AI will not be necessary for every job or system, said Chaudhuri. Expertise is required to prioritize technology investments thoughtfully, balancing rate increases and major capital expenditures. Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER. GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) Georgetown County deputies are actively searching for a man wanted on a domestic violence charge Monday evening. The Georgetown County Sheriffs Office issued a manhunt for 49-year-old William Dempsey Cooper of Watford Place. Cooper escaped custody while deputies were in the process of arresting him Monday. Authorities attempted to use a K9 to track him but were unsuccessful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drones have been used to aid in the search. Cooper is five feet eight inches tall and weighs about 180 pounds. He was last wearing a gray sweatshirt with light-colored jeans and handcuffs. If you have information on Cooper and his whereabouts, contact the Georgetown County Sheriffs Office at 843-546-5102. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. The Georgia Republican Party has booted longtime President-elect Trump critic former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan (R), who backed Vice President Harriss 2024 bid for the White House. A resolution from the Georgia GOPs State Executive Committee featured in a Tuesday release from the party stated the former lieutenant governor is hereby expelled from the Georgia Republican Party. The Georgia Republican Party also said Monday it was requesting Duncan be referred to as expelled Republican Geoff Duncan or ousted Republican Geoff Duncan when you go to him for quotes trashing President Trump and the Republican Party, in a media advisory posted to social platform X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a later response to the Monday post on X, Duncan said it is difficult to believe this is a good use of time for a party thats only got a limited amount of time to figure out mass deportations, world peace and global tariffs. Learn how to take a victory lap not light another dumpster fire @JoshMcKoon, he added, taking a swing at the chair of the Georgia GOP. Duncan faced backlash from fellow Republicans amid the 2020 presidential election when he sided with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) over Trump in certifying the election results. Duncan also spoke at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, saying at the time that voting for Harris meant youre a patriot. I can spend my time revving up this crowd, but Im certain I dont have to talk anybody out of voting for Donald Trump here, Duncan said at the convention. So Im going to focus my attention on the millions of Republicans and independents at home that are sick and tired of making excuses for Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hill has reached out to the Georgia GOP for further 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. A German couple on Tuesday confessed to killing a Ukrainian refugee and her mother in March 2024 in order to steal her baby. On the first day of the trial at Mannheim District Court, the two defendants admitted to killing the 27-year-old Ukrainian and her 51-year-old mother. "I regret everything I have done," the man said in a statement read out by lawyers. His wife added, "I made a big mistake." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the public prosecutor's office, the couple have a total of four children, including one son together. After suffering a number of miscarriages and failed fertility treatment, they planned to kidnap a newborn girl and pass her off as their daughter. "We really wanted to have a daughter together, that was my wife's most fervent wish," the man said on Tuesday. The couple intentionally targeted refugees from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, joining a group on Telegram to offer help with translation. The 27-year-old Ukrainian was living with her mother and baby in refugee accommodation in the south-western German town of Wiesloch when she came into contact with the couple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On March 6, 2024, they allegedly sedated the two women in a restaurant before the man killed the two women with a blunt object in two separate locations. They sank the grandmother's body in a lake and burnt the mother's body before driving home with the baby. The body of the 27-year-old woman was discovered by a passer-by on the banks of the Rhine the next day, with police arresting the couple and finding the baby on March 13. The couple has since been in custody, while the baby has returned to Ukraine in the custody of her aunt, who is a plaintiff in the case. The aunt's lawyer has already announced that he will apply for life imprisonment for the couple, who have been charged with murder and kidnapping. A total of nine trial days have been scheduled for the proceedings, with a verdict expected to be announced on 21 February. Lawyers Joerg Becker and Sandra Bauer stand in court as the trial begins, with the defendants absent. The couple is accused of killing a Ukrainian woman and her mother in March 2024 to take custody of the woman's baby. Uwe Anspach/dpa The land court of the German city of Mannheim has put on trial a couple who killed a Ukrainian woman and her mother in order to pass off the younger woman's child as their own. Source: European Pravda with reference to Spiegel Details: At the beginning of the trial, both defendants confessed to the crimes read out in a statement by their lawyers. They expressed remorse for what had happened. According to the indictment, the woman and her husband killed a 27-year-old woman and her 51-year-old mother in March 2024 in order to pass off the younger woman's five-week-old baby as their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecutor's office noted that the motive for the crime was that the 45-year-old woman and her 43-year-old husband from Sandhausen near Heidelberg had long been planning to have a daughter together. Their nationality has not been disclosed, but earlier reports mentioned that the woman was Russian and the man was German. The wife was specifically looking for contact with Ukrainian refugees and joined a Telegram group to support them, prosecutors said. That's how she met a 27-year-old woman who was looking for help with translation in connection with the upcoming birth of her daughter. The mother, grandmother and baby were staying in a refugee shelter in the Rhein-Neckar district at the time of the crime. The baby, who is about eleven months old, now lives with her aunt in Ukraine. The woman is a co-plaintiff in the case. The trial has nine days of hearings. The verdict may be announced on 21 February. Background: The body of the Ukrainian woman was found on the banks of the Rhine a few days after the family disappeared from the refugee shelter where they were living, and two weeks later the body of her mother was found as well. The newborn girl was found unharmed. In June, a nine-year-old Ukrainian girl Valeriia was murdered in Dobeln. Support UP or become our patron! (Bloomberg) -- German industry is emitting more carbon, despite a decline in production, as factories save costs by using dirtier fuels. Most Read from Bloomberg Emissions from industrial output rose by 2% last year, even amid a contraction in the sector, according to preliminary calculations from think tank Agora Energiewende. A further increase is expected if the economy recovers in the future, the group said in a report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The figures highlight the challenge for Germany, Europes largest economy, as it seeks to recover from a recession and bolster its energy security while pursuing ambitious climate targets. The nation aims to cut emissions by as much as two-thirds by 2030, but snap elections next month are adding to uncertainty over its green goals. Germany accounts for roughly a quarter of the European Unions energy-related carbon dioxide pollution about as much as the next-largest emitters, Italy and Poland, put together. One reason is its massive industrial sector, with manufacturing responsible for a fifth of the gross value-added generated in the German economy. Overall, Germany still managed to cut its carbon emissions by 3% last year, as it shut some coal-fired power stations and ramped up renewables to generate electricity, according to Agoras data. We are on track with climate protection and the hard work is paying off: emissions are falling, Economy Minister Robert Habeck said in a statement, adding that reliability and planning security are now needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the German Environment Agency claimed the nations 2030 climate goal was within reach. However, as there had been a whole series of delays in climate policy since, there is no evidence that Germany is on track to meet its targets, Agoras Germany director, Simon Muller, told reporters on Tuesday. The decline in emissions has partly been driven by demand reduction and production cuts from energy-intensive industries, linked to the crisis triggered by Russias war in Ukraine. Sectors like transport and buildings were the worst performers last year, missing their respective annual emissions reduction goals, according to Agora. Theres a reluctance among households and corporations to embrace green technologies, despite an overall decline in electricity costs, the group said. Sales of heat pumps and new registrations of electric cars fell by 44% and 26% respectively last year, according to the report. Agora has called for greater political commitment to climate goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Renewables accounted for a record 62.7% share of net power generation, with wind energy taking the lions share. Solar energy amounted for about 14%, research institute ISE Fraunhofer said last week. Germanys Environment Agency will release official 2024 emission data in mid-March. (Updates with additional details throughout.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A record 22 people were shot dead by German police in 2024, a dpa analysis found on Tuesday, representing the highest number of casualties in police shootings this century. The figure - collected in a dpa analysis of police reports - was more than double that of previous years, with 10 people shot dead by German police in 2023, 11 in 2022 and eight in 2021. In the majority of cases, the fatal shots were fired in situations in which the officers encountered unstable or distressed people. Several of them were carrying knives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historic statistics from the Civil Rights and Police publication suggest the figure for 2024 could be the highest since German reunification in 1990, with previous highs of 19 deaths recorded in 1995 and 1999. Among the people killed in German police shootings in 2024 was a man who stole an excavator in the southern town of Grunsfeld on New Year's Eve, ramming vehicles and buildings and injuring several police officers in a long chase. Another case saw a 31-year-old woman shot dead in a Munich supermarket after attacking officers with a knife. By Alexander Ratz BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany is leading European Union discussions on easing sanctions imposed on the Syrian government of toppled President Bashar al-Assad and aiding the country's population, foreign ministry sources said on Tuesday. "We are actively discussing ways to provide sanctions relief to the Syrian people in certain sectors," one of the sources said. This requires an unanimous EU decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germany's foreign ministry declined to comment. A lightning rebel offensive overthrew Assad on Dec. 8 and Islamist rebels Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which led the advance, set up a caretaker government. The U.S. on Monday issued a six-month sanctions exemption for transactions with some government bodies to ease the flow of humanitarian assistance, address Syria's power shortages and allow personal remittances. The EU, United States, Britain and other governments imposed tough sanctions on Syria after Assad's crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 spiraled into civil war. HTS has renounced its ties with Al Qaeda but is still designated a terrorist entity by the United Nations and U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German officials first circulated thoughts on easing sanctions on Syria in documents sent to Brussels before Christmas. The FT first reported on Tuesday that the documents outline how the EU could gradually ease restrictions on Damascus in return for progress on social issues, including safeguarding minority and women's rights and upholding commitments to ensuring non-proliferation of weapons. The FT, citing an unnamed source familiar with the EU discussions, added that, like Washington, the bloc could make any easing of sanctions temporary to ensure that it could be reversed if necessary. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Friday traveled to Syria for a one-day trip with her French counterpart on behalf of the EU and met with HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baerbock said during her visit that all Syrian groups including women and Kurds must be involved in the country's transition if Damascus wants European support. (Reporting by Alexander Ratz in Berlin, Surbhi Misra in Bengaluru; Writing by Emma-Victoria Farr in Frankfurt; Editing by Gareth Jones, Hugh Lawson and Cynthia Osterman) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is counting on strong relations between the German government and the incoming US administration under president Donald Trump. In an interview with the Stern magazine published on Tuesday, Scholz highlighted the critical role the US had played in Germany's democratic development, both in the West following World War II and throughout the country after the peaceful revolution in East Germany. Scholz said that this historical foundation continues to bolster transatlantic relations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This foundation is solid, and it will support transatlantic relations for a long time," he said, stressing the importance of effective collaboration with the new US government. Scholz also said that he had already spoken twice with President-elect Trump, describing their conversations as "exceptionally friendly." Trump's inauguration is scheduled for January 20. When asked about attending the inauguration, Scholz responded, "The American administration has, as is customary, invited the German ambassador." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday said he would not rule out a new partnership with the Free Democratic Party (FDP), who withdrew from his three-party coalition late last year, following elections on February 23. "I have nothing against the FDP in general," Scholz told the Stern magazine. Asked if he would consider another coalition with the party, if their leader Christian Lindner were excluded, the chancellor said: "The citizens decide, and we politicians have to deal with the result." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz, from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), was forced to call early elections after firing FDP leader Lindner from his post as finance minister in November following months of difficult negotiations over the 2025 budget. Scholz and Lindner subsequently traded verbal blows, accusing each other of responsibility for the failure to see out the government's full term. In response to Scholz's latest comments, Lindner wrote on X that he was "not convinced by the programme and style of the Scholz SPD," accusing the party of responsibility for the poor state of Germany. Lindner said he favours a coalition with the centre-right CDU/CSU alliance, but his FDP is currently at risk of failing to enter the Bundestag, Germany's lower house of parliament, if it does not clear a 5% threshold in February's election. American girls' performance at school has suffered a bigger blow from the Covid-19 pandemic than that of their male peers, according to a new analysis. reported on Monday that Since 2019, girls' average test scores have dipped below those of boys in all 15 of the exam datasets examined by The Wall Street Journal, the newspaper reported Monday. While both genders suffered some "learning loss," girls appeared to have been hit harder sometimes by a marginal amount, and sometimes substantially. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More alarming is that recent research by the University of Arkansas (PDF link) suggests that this pattern holds true across 70 other countries, even adjusting for demographic differences between each population. The reasons for the drop are unclear, but experts suggested that troubled boys may have absorbed more attention from teachers because they tend to act out more, or that girls may have taken on more caregiving or household responsibilities during Covid, diverting their energy for and attention to their studies. "This not only will hurt girls now; it will change college enrollment, it will change the talent pool that we have," study co-author Harry Patrinos told the Journal. According to the newspaper, both genders saw worse test results in 2024 than in 2019, with the girls' gap larger in every dataset studied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Math, reading, and science were particularly affected, reversing a previous trend of girls being level with or ahead of boys in test results. Erica Thomas, a mother of three boys and a girl in Maryland, said her daughter lost more ground than her sons during the pandemic, perhaps because her continued good behavior led to teachers overlooking her problems. "If my child was wild and throwing desks around the room, somebody would pay attention to them," Thomas told the Journal. (Bloomberg Law) -- Rudolph Giuliani was held in contempt for violating legal discovery requirements related to his Palm Beach, Florida condominium, potentially putting him one step closer to losing his second multi-million dollar residence to satisfy a $148 million defamation judgment. Most Read from Bloomberg The former New York City mayors failure to cough up information that might undercut his claim for a homestead exemption in Florida will hobble parts of his argument that he established a primary residence in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Lewis J. Liman of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York said Monday that he will decide the full extent of Giulianis punishment at a later time for failing to comply with court orders and trying to run the clock on his disclosure duties. The Palm Beach condo, previously valued around $3.5 million, has become a central part of legal wrangling to satisfy Giulianis 2023 court loss for defaming Georgia poll workers Ruby Freeman and her daughter Wandrea Moss by falsely accusing the pair of attempting to rig 2020 election ballots in favor of Joe Biden. Having already been forced to turn over his Manhattan penthouse apartment, cash accounts, collection of valuable watches, Yankees memorabilia, and other assets, Giuliani is currently fighting to keep his only other residence through a homestead exemption. His position has been complicated by the fact that he claimed several times last year during his personal bankruptcy proceedings that his primary residence was in New York and he only spent a fraction of his time in Palm Beach. Liman, a Donald Trump appointee, in recent months compelled Giuliani to provide fulsome answers and responsive documents to Moss and Freemans discovery requests, but Giuliani missed mandated deadlines and ultimately produced only sparse bits of sought after information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuliani willfully failed to meet discovery demands placed upon him, the judge said. Its reasonable to conclude he did so because the information would be injurious to him in the homestead action, Liman added. Although the judge held off determining a final penalty for violating court orders, he barred Giuliani from arguing any further that he changed his doctors, lawyers and financial advisers as part of his alleged move from New York to Florida. He also prohibited Giuliani from bringing up emails or other communications to argue that he changed his personal service providers. Liman has scheduled a Jan. 16 trial to decide if Giuliani can keep the property. Giuliani attorney Joe Cammarata argued Monday that his client fully or substantially complied with discovery requirements. He added that a severe adverse inference ruling on the discovery issues would be a death penalty for his clients defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plaintiffs are trying to sidestep the trial, Cammarata said. This case should be decided on the merits. It wasnt immediately clear the degree to which Giulianis defense will be hampered by the immediate ruling. Giuliani spokesman Ted Goodman said in a statement Monday that the case against Giuliani is politically motivated. Its tragic to watch as our justice system has been turned into a total mockery, where we have charades instead of actual hearings and trials, he said. Giulianis efforts on behalf of Trump to cast doubt on the 2020 election have left the one-time federal prosecutor beset by legal proceedings and financially ruined. Since losing the defamation suit, Giuliani has been in and out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy, lost his ability to practice law, faced criminal indictments, and remained a defendant in multiple high-stakes civil suits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giuliani is represented by Joseph Cammarata of Cammarata & DeMeyer PC. The poll workers are represented by Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, DuBose Miller LLC, and United to Protect Democracy. The case is Freeman et al. v. Giuliani, S.D.N.Y., No. 24-06563, hearing 1/6/25. To contact the reporter on this story: Alex Wolf in New York at awolf@bloomberglaw.com To contact the editor responsible for this story: Maria Chutchian at mchutchian@bloombergindustry.com (Updates with additional hearing details and statement from Giulianis spokesman.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Bubba talks to Captain Davis like usual, but they have a new member that we will now be seeing every other week and its Captain Austin Wolf! Captain Wolf will be taking over for Captain Davis and we want to welcome him as he will be the new face of the Joplin Police Department. We will of course miss Captain Davis! As they welcome Captain Wolf, the Joplin Police Department wants you to be aware of the scams that are happening all around the area. The Police Department will never ask you for a gift card, to pay for anything or request banking information so make sure you dont fall into that trap! Unfortunately, scammers are only getting smarter and more creative but luckily we have Captain Wolf here to keep us in the loop and tell us what to look out for! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. U.S. Rep. Jared Golden meets with voters during an October 2024 campaign event in Eastport, Maine. (Photo courtesy of Jared Golden for Congress) Jared Golden has consistently demonstrated electoral prowess, defying the odds to maintain his Democratic seat despite voters in Maines 2nd Congressional District consistently backing Republican Donald Trump for president. However, he thinks theres a better way to elect representatives to Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, the congressman, along with U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, introduced legislation to establish a bipartisan select committee to consider alternatives to the current winner-take-all electoral system. Suggested reforms the committee would consider include ranked-choice voting, which has been adopted by Maine among other states and localities, independent redistricting commissions to push back against gerrymandering, and expanding the number of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation marks the next step in an effort the pair, who are both co-chairs of the centrist Blue Dog Coalition, announced in a resolution in the weeks following the November election. In an op-ed outlining the proposal, they explain that the Electoral Reform Select Committee Act is part of a slate of bills they believe would reduce political polarization, strengthen democracy and prioritize old-fashioned place-based representation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other reforms include expanding remote testimony in order to prioritize the voice of regular Americans in the policymaking process, and removing rules that penalize voters who dont identify with a political party, for instance by opening primaries to independent voters. Americans are tired of a political system that divides us, Golden said in a press statement Tuesday. Reforms to improve representation are not just a good idea they are already working in places like Maine. This bill will bring us together to find the solutions we need to make politics better for everyone. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Googles (GOOGL) anti-aging company Calico released disappointing trial results of its first ever drug. Calicos fosigotifator was tested for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord and leads to paralysis. It was part of theHEALEY ALS Platform Trial, which is testing a series of drugs against the condition. Calico said on Monday that fosigotifator did not meet its primary or secondary goals after a 24-week trial. The treatment failed to slow disease progression or improve respiratory function and quality of life better than the placebo group. However, an exploratory high dose of the drug appeared to preserve muscle strength and respiratory function longer than the placebo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although these results were disappointing, the study has yielded important insights into fosigotifators potential bioactivity in people with ALS that supports further investigation, said Calico head of clinical sciences Bill Cho in a press release. We remain committed to investigating the potential of fosigotifator as a much needed treatment option for people living with ALS and for other disorders, including vanishing white matter disease and major depressive disorder which each test different scientific hypotheses. Fosigotifator targets the integrated stress response (ISR), a cellular mechanism that reduces activity in cells in response to internal or environmental stress. Last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) selected fosigotifator for its START Pilot Program, aimed at accelerating its development as a treatment for the rare brain condition known as vanishing white matter disease. Calico was founded in 2013 by Google to help understand and tackle aging. It is now a subsidiary of Alphabet and has absorbed at least as $3.5 billion in funding, STAT news reports . For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Congressional Republicans are dismissing President-elect Donald Trumps suggestion that the U.S. could use military force to seize Greenland and the Panama Canal. Just hours after Trump repeatedly declined during a freewheeling press conference to rule out deploying military strength to take over the areas, some GOP lawmakers said they dont think the incoming president was being literal. I tried to interpret Trump not to say, Oh yeah, Im 100 percent for going to war against Panama and Greenland. But I think what hes saying is that we basically gave the canal away and now were paying all these shipping fees, Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told the Daily Beast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A New York Times reporter asked Trump at Mar-a-Lago whether he could promise not to use military or economic coercion to gain control of either the Panama Canal or Greenland. Trump replied, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters on Capitol Hill that he hasnt discussed either the Panama Canal or Greenland with Trump, and was cautious to weigh in. But, look, he said, the Panama Canal, in particular, is obviously of extraordinary interest to the country and Greenland, for that matter as well. What well do about it, how well act upon it, is not a discussion Ive been involved in. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., conducts a news conference in the Capitol Visitor Center after a meeting of the House Republican Conference on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. / CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag McCaul, who chaired the House Foreign Affairs Committee until this month, when his term ended, also gave his interpretation of Trumps Greenland remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres so many rare minerals there, hes always liked Greenland, I think because they have so many natural resources, McCaul said. Another senior GOP lawmaker argued that Trump could simply be posturing in an effort to spark discussion about Denmark potentially transferring control of the Arctic island. We would never use force to take Greenland. I believe this is just him posturing. Nonetheless, I fully agree with his desire for the U.S. to purchase Greenland. There are both national security and future economic benefits to having it as one of our territories, the lawmaker said. My expectation is that he will pressure Denmark and other NATO Allies to support the transfer of Greenland to the U.S. for military security purposes. This rhetoric is probably just an early part of that process, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And a third GOP lawmaker just laughed, jokingly saying: Yeah, lets invade Greenland. The president-elects son, Don Jr., tweeted out a photo of himself visiting the Danish territory on Tuesday along with the caption: Greenland loves America and Trump!!! Incredible people with an equally awesome reception. They just want to be able to utilize some of the incredible resources that they have and allow themselves, their country, and their kids to flourish. Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen has pushed back on the notion that Greenland can be bought, stating: Greenland is not for sale on Tuesday. The House voted on Tuesday to pass a GOP-led bill to require detention of undocumented migrants charged with certain crimes, but the measure faces an uncertain future in the Senate in a sign of the challenges facing Republicans despite controlling both chambers of Congress. The decision by House Republicans to bring up the legislation, known as the Laken Riley Act, as the first bill of the new Congress highlights the central priority of the issue for the party. But the narrow margins in both chambers limit what Republicans can achieve, and its not clear if the bill will have the votes needed in the Senate, which is on track to take up the measure on Friday. The House vote was 264 to 159, with 48 Democrats voting with Republicans in support. When the legislation passed the chamber in the last session Congress, 37 Democrats voted with Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats are under pressure to show they will act on immigration, especially in the wake of Trumps election in a campaign cycle where Republicans frequently painted their opponents as soft on the border and immigration policy. In the aftermath of Trumps win, some Democrats have said the party must do more to address voter concerns over the issue. A critical mass of Democrats would have to join with Republicans to clear the 60-vote threshold required to advance most legislation in the Senate, a major constraint on the chambers new GOP majority and President-elect Donald Trumps incoming agenda. The bill would require the detention of undocumented migrants charged with theft or burglary. The legislation is named after a Georgia student who was killed last year while she was out for a run. An undocumented migrant from Venezuela was convicted and sentenced to life without parole in the case that reignited a national debate over immigration and crime. Speaker Mike Johnson is presiding over the narrowest House majority in roughly a century, and in the Senate, Republicans control only 53 seats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically, that would mean that at least seven Democrats would need to vote with Republicans to advance a bill subject to a filibuster. But when the bill comes up for a procedural vote in the Senate this week, it would need eight Democrats to vote with Republicans since incoming West Virginia GOP Sen. Jim Justice, who chose to delay his swearing in to finish out his term as governor, isnt expected to take his seat until next week. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania has said he supports the legislation. Fetterman said in a statement to CNN, Laken Rileys story is a tragic reminder of whats at stake when our systems fail to protect people. No family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one to preventable violence. Immigration is what makes our country great. I support giving authorities the tools to prevent tragedies like this one while we work on comprehensive solutions to our broken system. Democratic Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, who is up for reelection in 2026, told CNN that he plans to vote for the Laken Riley Act. Asked why, Peters said, border security and keeping Americans safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona told CNNs Manu Raju hes looking at the legislation. What does it say about Democrats who vote against it? Well, people are going to have to make a decision, GOP Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming told CNN of the vote. And you know, its now a bipartisan bill, Fetterman has signed on. Republicans are acutely aware of the limitations of their narrow majority and the party is preparing a push for a major legislative package under a process known as reconciliation that will allow them to bypass the Senates 60-vote threshold. There are already divisions over the strategy and priorities to include in that package, however, as some Republicans push for a single package that encompasses a sweeping array of policy items, while others argue the effort should be split up into two separate packages. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Ted Barrett and Morgan Rimmer contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday promoted Justice Jimmy Blacklock to chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court and appointed his legal adviser James Sullivan to fill an open spot on the all-Republican bench. Blacklock is replacing Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, 75, who retired Dec. 31 after reaching the state's mandatory judicial retirement age. Hecht had presided over the bench for 13 years and was first appointed 36 years ago. Abbott's appointments further cement his hold on the court, having selected six of the bench's nine justices. Both men have close ties to the governor Blacklock served as Abbott's general counsel until 2018 and Sullivan currently holds that role. They will be up for reelection in November 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Supreme Court of Texas plays a crucial role to shape the future of our great state, and Jimmy Blacklock and James Sullivan will be unwavering guardians of the Texas Constitution serving on our state's highest judicial court," Abbott said in a news release Monday afternoon. Blacklock, who won a second term in November, is a graduate of Yale Law School and the University of Texas. The Houston native now lives in Austin with his wife and three daughters and serves as a deacon of Tarrytown Christian Church. "My colleagues and I are committed to defending the rule of law and to preserving our Texas and United States Constitutions," Blacklock said in a news release Monday. "I look forward to helping the Court continue to pursue equal justice under the law for all Texans. His prior experience includes clerking for Judge Jerry Smith on the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and working in private practice on civil and appellate law. As Abbott's general counsel, he "assisted on Obamacare litigation, religious liberty, and right to life issues," according to Abbott's news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abbott has previously touted Blacklock's conservative views, saying in 2018 that I dont have to guess or wonder how Justice Blacklock is going to decide cases because of his proven record of fighting for pro-life causes." Sullivan, an Austin resident, has been Abbott's legal adviser since 2021. Before then, he spent several years working for the state as deputy general counsel to the governor and assistant solicitor general, and was an appellate litigator in private practice. He earned degrees from Rice University and Harvard Law School. "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." Justice Deborah Lehrmann, the most senior member of the state Supreme Court, praised Abbott's choices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Abbotts decision reflects his commitment to upholding the integrity and excellence of Texas judicial system, Lehrmann said in a statement. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, whose office regularly appeals to the high court, congratulated the appointees in a Monday evening social media post. "Our State will be well served by your knowledge, wisdom, and respect for the rule of law," he wrote. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Gov. Greg Abbott appoints his general counsel to Texas Supreme Court Changes are on the way to the emergency shelter system in Massachusetts. Governor Maura Healey announced two big developments to keep state-run shelters safer and funded for a little longer. The governor wants all of the sites reviewed and inspected to prevent criminal activity. The inspections will start at the Quality Inn in Revere, where a high-powered rifle and drugs were found last week. Federal officials say 28-year-old Leonardo Sanchez was arrested after the Suffolk County Sheriffs Department recovered about $1 million worth of fentanyl and a loaded AR-15 with ammo from a room at the hotel. Federal officials say Sanchez entered the US illegally. Healey now wants a full review of the states intake process to prevent any further criminal activity in the state-funded shelters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its outrageous that this individual took advantage of our shelter system to engage in criminal activity, Healey said in a statement issued on Monday. 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. Speaking of funding, Healey is also requesting another $425 million from a reserve account to keep the emergency shelter assistance program running for the next six months. Already, her office announced a series of changes to shorten the length of stay and phase out the use of hotels and motels. The hope is that those changes will reduce costs after the shelters rang up a bill of about a billion dollars last year. Healey also sent lawmakers a fiscal blueprint, which outlines how to make the shelter system more sustainable in the long term, including reducing the caseloads from 7,500 families to 4,000 families by June of 2026. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Gov. Josh Stein (center) surrounded by his cabinet appointees after they were sworn into office in Raleigh on Jan. 6, 2025. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) Gov. Josh Steins cabinet appointees were sworn into office Monday, taking the reins of North Carolina government. Stein, a Democrat who formerly served as attorney general, was sworn into office on New Years Day. He will be formally inaugurated on Jan. 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His cabinet appointees come from within state and federal government and the private sector, and include several officials appointed by Steins predecessor, Gov. Roy Cooper. They are subject to confirmation by the state Senate. Every decision we make, every initiative we launch, has the power to impact the lives of our fellow North Carolinians, Stein told his appointees and their families at a ceremony at the State Capitol Building. Its an incredible, remarkable tradition. Thats why we must serve with integrity, transparency, effort and compassion. Our work matters, and our states needs are urgent. Families in western North Carolina are relying on relief organizations for food, clothing, and warmth as they recover from Helene. ALSO READ: Ingles reports $35M in losses from Hurricane Helene Channel 9s Dave Faherty went to Swannanoa Tuesday where volunteers were still arriving from out of state to help as temperatures hover near freezing. Faherty spoke with volunteers from New York and Florida who are still arriving in this area hit hard by the flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The water reached some of the rooftops in the neighborhood damaging dozens of homes. Outside of Blunt Pretzels in Swannanoa, volunteer James Thomas prepared meals for hundreds of people in the portable kitchen. He has been in town for months from Florida volunteering. But now, he and others face a new challenge: Bitterly cold temperatures this week. Cold weather is going to happen, Thomas said. Were going to do the best we can. When I saw what was happening here, this is something we havent seen before. Less than a mile away, Kristen Hicks and volunteers from Charlotte and New York were restocking the nonprofit, Blessing Barn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also had a bus bring supplies and clothing to families in the area. With snow and ice in the forecast this week, the nonprofit is trying to help as many people as possible. Im honored, said Kristen Hicks, with The Blessing Barn. Im honored to be chosen as Gods hands and feet. Its just a blessing to be a part of it. In Old Fort, the Davis Country Store has provided thousands of meals since the storm hit. The owner, Amy Davis, said the chilling weather wont stop the efforts there. Taking care of filling the freezer for the weekend, making sure they have propane, Davis said. Weve been giving away the little propane tanks for the heaters, blankets and all of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis said shes also ensuring anyone who his homeless or possibly living in a tent has a warm place to stay during this cold snap. Gov. Stein back in western North Carolina to survey Helene recovery efforts For the second time since he took office last week, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein visited the western part of the state to survey Helene recovery efforts. Gov. Stein, along with the Old Fort Mayor Pam Snypes, stopped by businesses extensively damaged by the storm. Businesses are reopening their doors, weve got to get housing rebuilt, tourists need to come back to Old Fort to support this local economy, Stein told Channel 9s Dave Faherty. Theyre ready to be welcoming people, we just need to be there for them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor signed five executive orders on his first day in office focused on recovery efforts for families and businesses in western North Carolina. Right now, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is reporting thousands of people are still getting temporary housing assistance at motels in across the region. Stein spoke with business owners struggling to recover. Old Forts mayor said the town relies heavily on tourism and folks have not come back. Later on Tuesday, Steins team said hes expected to travel to Asheville. Alongside Adrianne Todman, Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Stein is expected to make an announcement on Helene recovery efforts. (WATCH BELOW: Stein signs 5 Helene recovery executive orders in first action as governor) RALEIGH On Thursday, Gov. Josh Stein signed five executive orders to bring much-needed relief to people in western North Carolina, including accelerating temporary housing and the repair of private roads and bridges. Right now, with tens of thousands of houses damaged or destroyed, more than 12,000 western North Carolinians are without safe housing, and an estimated 8,000 private roads and bridges need to be repaired or replaced to reinstate access to emergency services, school buses and other transportation. Winter is here in western North Carolina, and we must act quickly to get people in temporary housing, repair private roads and bridges, and keep people safe, said Stein. I will do everything in my power to make sure we are both thinking creatively and acting swiftly to help our neighbors recover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steins first two executive orders received concurrence by the Council of State and will temporarily waive procurement regulations. The first directs the Department of Public Safety to purchase up to 1,000 temporary portable homes and forgo normal bidding and advertisement procedures in order to do so. The second order allows the Director of the Division of Emergency Management the same freedom for procuring services to repair roads throughout the region. The third order creates the Governors Recovery Office for Western North Carolina, a dedicated recovery office, and to create the Division of Community Revitalization within the Department of Commerce to address housing needs and community resilience. The fourth establishes a Governors Advisory Committee on Western North Carolina Recovery to advise GROW NC to meet the communitys needs quickly and cost-effectively. The last directs the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources to authorize an additional 16 hours of Community Service Leave for state employees to volunteer for organized storm-related efforts. CLEVELAND (WJW) Governor Mike DeWine is expected on Wednesday to sign a bill into law that will make sextortion a felony. In December, both the Ohio House and Senate passed a bill named for Braden Markus, an Olentangy High School student, who was a victim of sextortion. Braden died by suicide in 2021. Sextortion is an online crime that happens when a suspect poses as a same-aged peer to convince the victim to share sexually explicit pictures and then tries to extort money from the victim. I-Team: Insurance for stadium not routine with talk of Browns move Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill was sponsored by Representatives Brian Lorenz and Beth Lear. This was needed because what we are seeing is these perpetrators going from one kid to another kid, Lorenz told the Fox 8 I-Team. This makes sexual extortion a third degree felony and if someone dies through the act of the sextortion, it raises it to a second degree felony. The bill also mandates cell phone companies give parents of deceased minors access to their childs phone within 30 days of their childrens deaths. Lorenz said Bradens parents waited ten months to get access to his phone, which contained information about the sextortion scam. Streetsboro police tell us they are continuing to investigate the sextortion case of James Woods. Woods, a student at Streetsboro High School, died by suicide in 2022. He too, was a victim of sextortion. Police believe the suspect in Woods case lives overseas and they are working with federal officials on the matter. I-90 E crash in Lake County involved snow plow: ODOT Lorenz says he hopes the new law will help get justice for all victims. We want to tell those evil people that are thinking of committing this evil crime that it wont be tolerated in Ohio, Lorenz says. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) A Trumbull grand jury has declined to indict a man who was facing a felony burglary charge for a reported November incident. Reports at the time state police were called to a home on the 700 block of Hazelwood Avenue SE after a woman said a man, identified as JaVontai Harris, burglarized her home. Harris was also facing minor traffic charges for hitting a stop sign nearby, reports state. A Trumbull County grand jury declined to indict Harris on the burglary charge, court records show. The traffic charges were also dismissed. 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. As Monique Worrell plans to reclaim the Orange-Osceola State Attorneys office Tuesday, questions loom about a grand jury investigation in Polk County. Friday, we reported a grand jury has been called and people have been subpoenaed to appear related to an investigation into Monique Worrells first administration. The details of this grand jury, including the potential charges, are sealed. Tuesday morning, Monique Worrell says she plans to walk in solidarity alongside supporters in front of the Orange County Courthouse, reclaim her office and take her oath. Her assistant state attorneys will also be sworn in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was just 16 months after the prosecutors were sworn in under appointed State Attorney Andrew Bain. What do you thinks going on in that office right now?, Channel 9s Ashlyn Webb asked. Chaos, said former prosecutor Ryan Vescio. It is a situation where its obviously a political office, but there are 170 attorneys that just show up to work every day and want to protect the community and want to do what they believe is right. They want support. They want guidance. Theres fear, particularly from Democrats like Anna Eskamani, about if Worrell could be blocked or removed from office. Theres two scenarios here that Im speculating on. One is that some sort of indictment based on politically motivated charges is announced to prevent her from even being sworn in. Two, she gets sworn in and then days later, some sort of indictment comes out again, said Rep. Anna Eskamani. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont know who in Worrells previous administration is currently part of this grand jury investigationand what charges prosecutors are looking to press. Could she possibly be removed?, Channel 9s Ashlyn Webb asked. Its a real possibility that although she has now been elected for the second time by a wide majority, that if charges are brought against her, the governor could have the authority to suspend her for office for a second time. To do it once is unprecedented. To do it twice would be really unheard of, Vescio said. Vescio says prosecutors are already caught in a swinging pendulum from the vastly different Worrell and Bain administrationand its policies. Vescio is a criminal defense expert and partner at NeJame Law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the justice system is inconsistent, it just grinds to a halt because people dont know how to resolve their cases. Judges are put into the middle with wild inconsistencies in what prosecutors are presenting. I expect what youre going to see is until the system as a whole knows who the state attorney is going to actually be, Vescio said. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. CULLMAN, Ala. (WIAT) The city of Cullman was awarded an over $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the St. Bernard Bridge Replacement Project. Republican U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, who represents Alabamas Fourth Congressional District, made the announcement Monday. According to his office, the grant will help replace and relocate the existing two-lane St. Bernard Bridge on U.S. 278 and Alabama 69, which goes over Eight Mile Creek. Aderholts office stated he secured $11 million in a bill the House passed to help fund replacement costs and meet the projects expected completion. Alabama man sentenced in COVID-19 loan scheme Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was proud to write a letter of support for the City of Cullman in securing this vital infrastructure investment, Aderholt said in a statement. Replacing and widening the St. Bernard Bridge is crucial for enhancing transportation safety and efficiency in our region. This project will not only improve traffic flow along US Hwy 278 but will also support economic growth and ensure our infrastructure can meet future demands. U.S. 278 is expected to be widen from Fourth Avenue to past St. Bernard Drive, placing the adjoining roadway and approaches with the new bridge. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BILOXI, Miss. (WJTV) The Federal Railroad Administration announced a $21,117,115 grant for Gulf Coast Rail. The grant will support the operating cost of Amtrak services returning to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The region has not had access to it since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Mississippi Lottery players win $649,500 in 2nd Chance promotion This is great news for Mississippi. Gulf Coast Rail is an investment in the future of our state. This grant will help with operational costs, ultimately reconnecting communities and ensuring that Mississippians have access to reliable transportation, said U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amtraks plan is for trains to run from a station near the convention center in Mobile, Alabama, to New Orleans, with four stops in Mississippi. 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 WJTV. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has promised she will introduce a bill ASAP to back President-elect Trumps idea to rename the Gulf of Mexico. In a post online, Greene shared a video of Trump pitching the idea to rename the body of water to the Gulf of America. President @realDonaldTrumps second term if off to a GREAT start, the Georgia Republican said. I will be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Tuesday, Trump told reporters he wanted to change the name of the gulf as he criticized Mexico for taking advantage of the U.S. over trade and immigration issues. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, the president-elect said. What a beautiful name. And its appropriate. Its appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country. As Trump prepares to take office for the second time, hes begun solidifying his economic agenda, including levying additional tariffs. Late last year, he announced there would be a 25 percent tariff on goods imported from Canada and Mexico. Trump subsequently met with exiting Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced his resignation Monday, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect has continually bashed Mexico and on Tuesday said it was a very dangerous place that was run by cartels. The president-elect also suggested Monday that the U.S. merge with Canada after Trudeaus exit, claiming there would be no tariffs and they would be secure from international threats. The pitch comes weeks after he trolled the prime minister by calling him the governor of Canada and joking that the nation could be the 51st state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Donald Trump ran on a series of big promises and with Inauguration Day fast approaching, hes attempting to preview on what hell try to turn into reality. In a wide-ranging press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, the president-elect forecasted the MAGA vision hell work to make real when he reclaims the White House in less than two weeks. From a new era of American imperialism to an enduring bitterness toward a criminal justice system he maintains unfairly targeted him, here are our top takeaways. Drill, baby, drill Trump slammed an action President Joe Biden took Monday that banned offshore drilling across 625 million acres of U.S. ocean, promising to reverse it immediately and instead drill, baby, drill the official slogan of his platforms energy policy. He said energy costs will be brought down to a very low level, which he said would decrease costs across the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, the White House said Biden had issued the drilling ban which covers the entire East and West Coasts of the continental U.S.; the eastern Gulf of Mexico; and parts of Alaska because the president determined that the environmental and economic risks and harms that would result from drilling in these areas outweigh their limited fossil fuel resource potential. It feels like the whole ocean, Trump said, adding: Nobody else does that. Im going to have it revoked on Day One, even if it requires going to the courts. Trump acknowledged that it would be hard to bring down consumer prices, saying someone else has screwed something up, but promised to bring them down by slashing energy costs through deregulation. I think youre going to see some pretty drastic price reductions, Trump said. A new age of American imperialism Trump really wants the Panama Canal. And Greenland. And Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after his son Donald Trump Jr. and other representatives touched down in Greenland, Trump reemphasized his desire to bring the massive Arctic territory under U.S. control which the Danish prime minister promptly shot down. Trump also slammed the late former President Jimmy Carter who will lie in state on Tuesday at the U.S. Capitol ahead of his funeral on Thursday for selling the U.S.-built Panama Canal to Panama, and said the canal was currently under discussion. Asked by a reporter if he could assure the world he would not use military or economic coercion in his efforts to bring the Panama Canal and Greenland under U.S. control, Trump quickly replied no. Im not going to commit to that, Trump said. It might be that youll have to do something. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And the president-elect again said he hoped to turn Canada the second-largest country in the world by surface area into an American state, arguing the U.S. is paying far too much to its northern ally and adding that hed consider using economic force to bring the country under U.S. control. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shot back that There isnt a snowballs chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. Slamming the injustice department Trump again bashed the Department of Justice, which he has contended for years is part of a deep state unfairly targeting him through lawfare. He called Jack Smith, the special counsel who had conducted two investigations into Trump, a deranged individual and a nutjob who will execute everybody. But Trump praised Florida federal Judge Aileen Cannon, who oversaw the Mar-A-Lago classified documents case and ultimately dismissed it, for temporarily blocking the publication of Smiths final report a decision that came down during the press conference. So, he wanted to do a report just before I took office, probably, Trump said of Smith. Itll be like a fake report, just like the investigation was a fake investigation. Why should he be allowed to write a fake report? Thats great news. All hell in the Middle East Trump promised that if the Israeli hostages being held by Hamas are not returned by the time he retakes the Oval Office, all hell will break loose in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone, Trump said. Asked to elaborate, Trump reiterated all hell will break out. I dont have to say anymore, but thats what it is. Trump is a close ally of conservative Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose 15-month military operation in Gaza in response to Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, massacre has razed the territory and displaced nearly 2 million people, according to the U.N. Netanyahu and Hamas are inching toward a ceasefire agreement, but it has been delayed over the names of hostages to be released, because Hamas says no one knows the condition of all the hostages. Trump vs. windmills Trump ramped up his attacks on an old foe windmills saying he would try and have a policy where no windmills are being built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect has long railed against wind turbines, which he said Tuesday are littered all over our country like dropping garbage on a field. He also again raised the false theory that windmills are driving the whales crazy, obviously a claim the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has denied. Musks meddling Trump brushed aside criticism of his close ally Elon Musk, who has garnered backlash in recent weeks for endorsing a far-right German political party and saying the British prime minister should be jailed over the countrys response to child sexual exploitation. He likes people that tended to be conservative, Trump said. I dont know the people. I can say Elon is doing a good job. Very smart guy. The president-elect himself said he didnt know the people youre talking about, adding that Musk said some negative things about a couple of people that are running for office, but thats not so unusual. Renowned South Korean conductor Jong Hoon Bae will visit Baku for the first time, Azernews reports. He will lead the Azerbaijan State Chamber Orchestra in a captivating concert at the Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall on February 6. During the concert,audiences will enjoy Azerbaijani and Russian classical music pieces. The concert program will undoubtedly touch the hearts of listeners. Jong Hoon Bae has earned acclaim for his dynamic approach to music, having collaborated with prestigious orchestras such as the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, the St. Petersburg State Academic Symphony Orchestra, Leipzig Symphony Orchestra, Mihail Jora Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday wouldn't rule out exercising military or economic coercion to further his goal of bringing both Greenland and the Panama Canal under U.S. control, as his son, Donald Trump Jr., is in Greenland amid Trump's push to acquire the autonomous territory of Denmark. "I can't assure you, you're talking about Panama and Greenland," Trump told reporters during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. "No, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this we need them for economic security." Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rejected Trump's designs on Greenland but said she'd continue to welcome American interest and investment, in light of Trump Jr.'s visit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I, of course, hope that Trump Jr. will have the opportunity to see Greenland and visit the magnificent country," Frederiksen said in a TV interview Tuesday. "But it is also important to hold fast that the future of Greenland is defined by the Greenlanders, not by the rest of us." "It is their country that we are talking about here, and it is Greenland that, in my eyes, can determine and define Greenland's future," she said. Frederiksen still considers the U.S. a valuable ally as Moscow and Beijing increase their cooperation. "I would much rather have American investment and American interest than I want Russian or Chinese," she said. "On the other hand, I would like to encourage everyone to respect that the Greenlanders are a people, they are a population," Frederiksen said. "It is their country that is at stake here." Trump Jr. arrived Tuesday in Greenland on his father's "Trump Force One" plane, weeks after his father again expressed a desire for the U.S. to gain control of the autonomous Danish territory. The visit comes just a day after Trump suggested the people of the vast region were "MAGA," in a post on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Just here as tourists," Trump Jr. told journalists as he walked into the airport in Greenland's capital city of Nuuk on Tuesday. "We've been talking about going for a while. I was actually supposed to be here last spring for some of the stuff I do in my free time, but just really excited to be here. Awesome country." He was quickly asked about his father, who's stated a desire to make Greenland part of the U.S., but he replied only to say that the soon to be second-term president, "says hello." "We were talking to him yesterday, so he says hello to everyone in Greenland," said Trump Jr. Greenland, which has a population of only about 57,000, is a semi-autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. It has oil, natural gas and mineral resources, but its economy is reliant on subsidies from Denmark and from fishing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Trump on Tuesday expressed doubt about Denmark's control of Greenland, despite Greenland's status as an autonomous territory. "Nobody even knows if they have any right, title or interest," Trump said, inaccurately, of Denmark and Greenland. / Credit: Getty/iStockphoto "The visit of Donald Trump Jr. is a private visit and that is being respected by Naalakkersuisut the Government of Greenland. Therefore, there will also not be reactions to the visit," Mininnguaq Kleist, Greenland's permanent secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told CBS News ahead of his arrival on Tuesday. "Our country is open for visits, and visitors are welcome in our beautiful country." Reuters, citing a source familiar with the trip, said Trump Jr. was planning to shoot content for a podcast, and that he would only be visiting for one day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, President-elect Trump said in a social media post that he was, "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. 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!" Trump had expressed interest in buying Greenland during his first term in office, though the idea was quickly rebuffed by Danish authorities. Two weeks ago, Trump said on social media that, "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." Greenland's government has twice rebuffed assertions of interest in the territory by Trump, with Prime Minister Mute Egede saying just before Christmas that "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Egede gave a New Year's speech pushing for Greenland to remove "the shackles of colonialism" and gain full independence from Denmark. "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," Egede said. One Greenlandic lawmaker in Denmark's parliament, Aaja Chemnitz, said Trump's interest should be dismissed, Reuters reported. "I don't want to be a pawn in Trump's hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country," Chemnitz said. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" What we know about the wildfires in California Deadly Eaton Fire burns more than 10,000 acres People in Greensboro are considering a proposal to turn the town hall into affordable housing this spring. The project has become the source of debate amongst community members, with some concerned over what it could mean for the towns future. RuralEdge, a housing development organization, proposed a plan to remodel Greensboros town hall into a 20-unit apartment building in 2023. Town selectboard members, who agreed to hear the proposal, say affordable housing is something that town, which is filled with often-empty second homes averaging about $500,000, desperately needs. Some Greensboro natives, however, believe that transforming the close to 65-year-old building is not the right solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It didnt sit right with me that any community would give up their town hall, said Davis Barnett, a Greensboro local of two years. Barnett found himself joining the Save Town Hall Coalition last year to start a petition against the project, which received over 180 signatures. He says that, while the town is definitely in need of more housing, he believes other options, such as developing barns on other properties or focusing on creating a central wastewater system, would be a better option. I think we can be more creative in figuring out how to meet our housing needs, he said. Eric Hanson, the Chair of the Greensboro Selectboard, says he personally believes the project would provide relief to the local economy and employers, such as Jasper Hill Farm, who have struggled to retain workers due to the lack of housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have major difficulties finding housing for workers, the same goes for the nursing home, same goes for schoolteachers, etc. So, I think this is a worthwhile project and Im willing to go ahead with it, he said. Hanson says the selectboard will aim to get a purchase and sale agreement with contingencies for RuralEdge, such as requiring the developer to invest in wastewater or get funding from grants for the building, by the end of January. He says people will have time to consider the proposed agreement before they vote on the project on Town Meeting Day in 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 ABC22 & FOX44. A coroner confirmed that a body Nevada authorities found in a desert area on Jan. 5 matched the description of Jennaleah Jenna Hin, a senior at Foothills High in Henderson who went missing the previous week Hin was described as a straight-A student who was planning on attending nursing school "This isn't the outcome the parents wanted. I just feel so bad for them," said a parent of another Foothills High student A Nevada community is in mourning following the death of a 17-year-old high school student who went missing last week following a reported family dispute. Authorities announced on Sunday, Jan. 5, that a deceased body found in a desert area matched the description of Jennaleah Jenna Hin, a senior who attended Foothill High School in Henderson. On Tuesday, Jan. 7, a spokesperson for Clark County confirmed to PEOPLE on that Jennaleah Jenna Hin, of Henderson, died by suicide from a gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Survivalist Dad Found Dead 3 Weeks After Going Missing While Photographing King Tides at Oregon Beach Local NBC affiliate KSNV reported on Tuesday that a memorial for Hin was created, with members of the community leaving flowers and stuffed animals at the scene where her body was found. Meanwhile, Foothill High students and their parents are grappling with the tragedy. 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. "It's just horrific, you know? parent Kristina Culpepper told KSNV. "And I know this isn't the outcome the parents wanted. I just feel so bad for them ... Just hold your kids tight." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hin was reported missing on Dec. 30, 2024, according to a Jan. 5 news release from the City of Henderson. Facebook Jenneleah Hin Jenneleah Hin According to authorities, police responded to a report on Jan. 5 that a dead body was 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." Prior to the confirmation of the identity of the body, authorities said that the deceased female matched the description of Hin. Henderson Detectives responded to the scene and based on preliminary investigations, there does not appear to be signs of foul play, continued the citys news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Missing Teen Likely Found Dead After Brother Tried to Save Him When Kayak Overturned During Hunting Trip The Las Vegas Review-Journal and KSNV 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 reportedly said 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. Donna Oliva, whose husband is a longtime friend of Hins father, previously told KSNV that what happened to Hin is every parents worst nightmare. She also said Hin was planning on attending nursing school and that the teen was a straight-A student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She's on course to graduate top of her class. She's going places in life. So this is out of character, Olivia told the outlet. PEOPLE contacted Foothill High School on Tuesday, Jan. 7 for comment. Jonathan Synold, principal of Foothill High, recently sent a letter to the school community that was later shared by local Fox affiliate KVVU. Related: Father of 2 Missing Since the Holidays Reportedly Found Dead in Michigan River: 'No Words to Describe' It is with deep sympathy that I inform you of the passing of a Foothill High School student. It is never easy to lose a valuable life, especially at a young age, and we will truly remember this student as part of our Falcon community, Synold, who did not name Hin in the letter, wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are working to ensure students have the support and resources they need to get through this challenging time. Counselors and social workers will be available for students tomorrow in the library, the letter continued. Synold concluded his letter by asking parents to monitor signs of grief or behavioral changes that their child might be experiencing following the news of the students death and to keep the lines of communication open with them. A GoFundMe was created to help Hins family pay for their loved ones funeral expenses. As of Tuesday, the platform has raised over $2,400. Jenna was a beautiful 17-year-old girl with a bright future ahead of her, read the fundraiser description. Although she may not have always felt it, she was deeply loved by her Hin family and those around her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The description also included a message from Hins father that stated: "Jenna was a loving soul who simply wanted to be loved. She had the potential to live a beautiful, long and happy life. She loved animals, especially her dogs. Jenna was truly a wonderful person, both in heart and in spirit. She will be deeply missed, and her memory will forever live on in our hearts." PEOPLE had reached out to the GoFundMe organizer on Tuesday. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org. Read the original article on People Theres no room for hate on Mercer Islandthats the message from city leaders after someone trespassed on school grounds and vandalized the property. On Jan. 3, the police department shared a joint statement from leaders condemning antisemitic and racist graffiti discovered at Islander Middle School. This abhorrent act of hate is not only a violation of our communitys shared values, but an attack on the principles of inclusion, respect, and safety that we work every day to uphold in our community, the statement reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department says it happened on New Years Eve. Officers found numerous windows and exterior walls riddled with hateful symbols and phrases. We are angry, disappointed, and deeply saddened by this incident. Antisemitism, hate, and racism in any form have no place in our schools, our city, or anywhere in our society, the statement goes on to say. Members of the school district are helping officers review security footage to try and identify the culprits. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact police. Students may use their anonymous Say Something App or the Say Something Tipline (1-844-5-SAYNOW) to report information. Community members may call the Police Non-Emergency Dispatch line at (425) 577-5656. An off-duty MTA cleaners offhand complaint about a delayed Bronx subway train led to an argument with the repeat offender accused of stabbing him as their quarrel escalated, police sources said Tuesday. Where the hell is the train? Where the f is the train? the upset 47-year-old victim said out loud as he waited at the Pelham Parkway subway station at 6:10 a.m. on Thursday. The complaint was overheard by the 52-year-old Jamar Banks, who was standing nearby on the platform, police sources said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You talking to me? Banks asked before picking a fight and allegedly stabbing the cleaner in the back and armpit, the sources said. After Banks ran off, medics took the worker to Jacobi Medical Center with a minor wound. Less than 24 hours earlier, Banks allegedly knifed a 31-year-old man aboard an uptown No. 2 train at the 14th St. station in the West Village. The victim suffered a punctured lung during the 9:40 a.m. attack on New Years Day, court papers reveal. Banks walked up to the victim and started the argument, then pulled a large knife and stabbed the man in the back according to cops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Banks was busted two days after police identified him as a suspect in the two stabbings and asked the publics help tracking him down. He has more than 80 prior arrests on his record, a law enforcement source said. Police charged him with assault and weapons possession for the pair of stabbings in transit. A Manhattan Criminal Court judge ordered Banks held on $300,000 bail during a brief arraignment proceeding on Sunday. Bronx prosecutors handling the attack on the MTA cleaner are expected to bring their evidence to a grand jury before hes indicted, officials said. The NYPD saw a 5% drop in major crime in the subway system last year compared to 2023. But assaults in transit are up and the city has been rocked by a string of high-profile crimes in the subway recently, most notably the homeless woman fatally burned alive on a Coney Island train last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced she has assigned 200 additional cops to patrol the subways. We still must do more because people dont feel safe in our subways, Tisch said at a press conference at NYPD headquarters Monday. Two firearms, ammunition and notes affixed to a refrigerator leaking unknown fluids were seized by law enforcement last week at a Pierce County home where four people were found dead on New Years Eve, according to a search warrant. The two-story house in South Hill is the site of a homicide investigation, the Pierce County Sheriffs Departments request for a search warrant shows. Deputies have said they believe the incident was contained to the home, and there are no outstanding suspects. What happened inside the house remains unclear. According to the search warrant, a woman was found obviously deceased on a bed in an upstairs room on the northeast side, and a male was found dead in a master bathroom on the same floor. He was behind a locked door with a bullet hole in it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A .45-caliber handgun was on the floor near a toilet. It was booked into evidence along with other items found in the bathroom: a fired shell casing, a bullet fragment, an ammunition cartridge and a cell phone. Information contained in the search-warrant request shows that a Dec. 29 welfare check at the home was prompted by a call from an online friend of one of the homeowners sons. The friend, who lives in Florida, told deputies that the sons girlfriend made a post on social media Nov. 12 stating that she was considering suicide with (the son). A deputy attempted to make contact at the home that day but got no answer. There was no smell, and the deputy didnt see anything to make him or her believe someone was deceased inside. The first two bodies were found during a Dec. 31 welfare check. After an initial sweep of the home, two family members still had not been found, according to the search warrant request. On a secondary sweep, two notes were found on a leaking kitchen refrigerator that read, Time of Death July 24th 5:45 AM and Time of death July 24th 3:00 PM. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fridge was partially open and had a door propped up against it, records state. In a report, deputies described the house as very messy. The home on Eastwood Avenue East where four people were found dead on Dec. 31, 2025 following a welfare check, on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, in Puyallup, Wash. Two more adult bodies were found after the search warrant was obtained later that afternoon, according to the Sheriffs Department, but deputies werent able to distinguish their approximate ages or genders just by looking at the bodies. Documents dont describe where they were found. Another note was found on a large refrigerator or freezer leaking unknown fluids in an attached garage, the search warrant states. It had notes on it indicating something to the effect of Date of Death, according to the document. The detective said it had dates on it from earlier in 2024, possibly around July. Deputies also wanted to search a blue 1992 Corvette that was parked in the driveway and two vehicles of unknown make and model that were in the garage, which was described as being packed full of items. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A shotgun found behind a leather chair in an upstairs hallway was seized. An envelope on a leather chair in the hallway containing a message on papers was booked into the Sheriff Departments property room. From a bedroom on the northwest side of the home, deputies found a fired .45-caliber shell casing, a gun magazine containing .45-caliber cartridges, a gun holster, a cell phone and a box of shotgun shells in a nightstand. Also seized in the search was a note found in the threshold of the front door and a note that was under the garage door. The search was requested by a detective in the departments domestic-violence unit. The Pierce County Medical Examiner has yet to identify the names of those found dead. A couple owns the house in the 18900 block of Eastwood Avenue East, according to the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurers website. A neighbor told deputies on the initial welfare check Dec. 23 that she hadnt seen them or their son since August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three welfare checks were done in the week before the bodies were found. Deputies lacked legal justification to enter the house until the fourth check Dec. 31, after the sons friend from Florida helped a deputy contact another another son, who said he hadnt spoken to his father since September. That son said it wasnt strange to not hear from his father due to the holidays, but it was weird that a truck had been repossessed from the driveway, and the father was always outside working on his vehicle, so it was weird that no one had seen him. The deputy told the son he could come over and do a welfare check since he was the next of kin and was concerned. The son called the deputy Dec. 31 to ask for him to stand by while he and another brother entered the home. One of them reportedly had to remove an AC unit from a second-floor window to get inside. Missouri resident Madhav Rao Pasumarti holds an H-1B visa working in IT managing product processes. Over the last couple weeks, hes watched as he and others who share his visa status have been called invaders and cheap labor. He said its hurtful and baffling, and he pointed out that visa holders like him are people who want to contribute and have much at stake. As the issue continues to be the subject of debate, people like Pasumarti, 49, who hold an H-1B, a temporary visa for high-skilled workers, say theyre unsure of what will happen to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is confusing, actually, to be frank with you, Pasumarti said, pointing out the whiplash between other recent messaging that focuses on embracing immigrants with specialty skills. A fiery debate between different factions of MAGA loyalists ignited on social media in the days following Christmas after some of President-elect Donald Trumps advisers came out in support of legal, high-skill immigration. It started after Trump named venture capitalist Sriram Krishnan to an artificial intelligence advisory role. An explosion of racism and xenophobia against Krishnan followed, with some on the far right criticizing him for past statements in support of green cards for skilled workers. Amid the feud, Trump said he supported H-1B visas. In the past, hes made comments about the program, saying, We shouldnt have it. Very, very bad for workers. Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, whom Trump has tapped to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency, also weighed in, with Ramaswamy saying in a post, Our American culture has venerated mediocrity over excellence for way too long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk added in his own post that the number of people who are super talented engineers AND super motivated in the USA is far too low. A number of prominent names spoke out about these comments, including far-right activists Laura Loomer and Steve Bannon. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley also said the tech industry was being lazy and needed to invest in our American workforce. A segment of social media called for the end of the H-1B visa program, making racist posts about Indians invading the U.S. Indians make up around 75% of all H-1B petitioners, outpacing the next highest group, Chinese workers, who make up less than 12%. Trumps transition team did not respond to NBC News request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People on H-1B visas have always had a sense of concern over their status, said Pawan Dhingra, a professor of American studies at Amherst College. The precarity of their jobs is kind of embedded in the visa itself. I think its more intense now. Other politicians, such as Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., also weighed in, saying Musk is wrong and agreeing the H-1B program needs reform. The main function of the H-1B visa program is not to hire the best and the brightest, but rather to replace good-paying American jobs with low-wage indentured servants from abroad, he wrote. The cheaper the labor they hire, the more money the billionaires make. The H-1B visa mandates applicants work in jobs that require a bachelors degree, but a number of jobs employers make visa requests that only require an associate degree, such as working in operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pasumarti said the overall characterization is insulting. That is really painful, he said. Those words are really kind of concerning, actually. According to immigration experts, the federal government cant change visa caps; it can make the process slower and more difficult, which Trump attempted to do in his first term. They do have the power to heavily audit firms and make life very difficult for companies that are hiring H-1B workers, said Gaurav Khanna, an associate professor of economics and an immigration scholar at the University of California, San Diego. The tech sector is heavily reliant on H-1B workers. If you cut off that supply, the tech sector is going to be unhappy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witnessing the two warring factions of Trumps movement, workers like Pasumarti say theres much at stake. He said he is worried about his daughter, who has a disability and isnt able to go to college or travel. She will soon turn 21 and wont be eligible for a green card under Pasumartis petition. He pointed out that she cant get a student visa or a subsequent H-1B. Im going through a different pain to protect my childs status over here, he said. She needs me. She cant even travel outside the States. Though it remains to be seen how much oxygen this issue gets, Dhingra said, many on the right might already feel more emboldened in their anti-Indian views. Theyre going to be able to more freely voice these sentiments that make the Indian Americans the outsider, the enemy, he said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com By James Mackenzie and Nidal al-Mughrabi JERUSALEM/CAIRO (Reuters) -Hamas stood by its demand on Tuesday that Israel fully end its assault on Gaza under any deal to release hostages, and said U.S. President-elect Donald Trump was rash to say there would be "hell to pay" unless they go free by his Jan. 20 inauguration. Officials from the Islamist group and Israel have been holding talks with Qatari and Egyptian mediators in the most intensive effort for months to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The outgoing U.S. administration has called for a final push for a deal before Joe Biden leaves office, and many in the region now view Trump's inauguration as an unofficial deadline. But with the clock ticking, both sides accuse the other of blocking a deal by adhering to conditions that torpedoed all previous peace efforts for more than a year. Hamas says it will free its remaining hostages only if Israel agrees to end the war and withdraw all its troops from Gaza. Israel says it will not end the war until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are free. "Hamas is the only obstacle to the release of the hostages," the director general of Israel's foreign ministry, Eden Bar Tal, told a briefing with reporters, saying Israel was fully committed to reaching a deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas official Osama Hamdan, who held a news conference in Algiers, said Israel was to blame for undermining all efforts to reach a deal. While he said he would not give details about the latest round of negotiations, he reiterated the Hamas conditions of "a complete end to the aggression and a full withdrawal from lands the occupation invaded". Commenting on Trump's threat that there would be "hell to pay" unless all hostages were freed before the inauguration, Hamdan said: "I think the U.S. president must make more disciplined and diplomatic statements." 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one notable step towards a deal, a Hamas official told Reuters on Sunday the group had cleared a list submitted by Israel of 34 hostages who could be freed in the initial phase of a truce, alongside Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The list included female Israeli soldiers, plus elderly, female and minor-aged civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said Israel had so far received no confirmation about whether those on its list were still alive. ISRAEL KEEPS UP AIRSTRIKES Nearly 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's assault on Gaza, according to health officials in the enclave. The assault was launched after Hamas fighters stormed Israeli territory in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and capturing more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli military strikes killed at least 24 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, medics said, as the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory urged international donors to immediately provide fuel to run generators and maintain medical services. One of those strikes killed four people in a house in Gaza City and six were killed in separate strikes across the enclave, medics said. Later on Tuesday, an Israeli strike on a tent in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip killed four children and eight Palestinians were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a house in Jabalia in the north, medics said. Additionally, an Israeli strike on a car in Khan Younis killed two people, medics and civil emergency service officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on those strikes. It said 240 Palestinians its forces had detained in a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza last month had provided "substantial intelligence". The military released footage of the interrogation of a purported Hamas militant who detailed how militants "operated from the hospital area" and transferred weapons to and from it. Hamas and the Gaza health ministry deny any armed presence at the hospital. (Reporting by James Mackenzie in Jerusalem, Clauda Tanios in Dubai and Nidal al-Mughrabi in CairoEditing by Peter Graff, Ros Russell and Deepa Babington) Virginia Beach lawmakers are proposing legislation that would allow localities to administer a full real estate tax exemption for spouses of military members who died in the line of duty. Virginia Sen. Aaron Rouse and Del. Michael Feggans, sponsors of the legislation, said the goal is to rectify an unintentional byproduct of the public referendum that passed in November. Under the referendum, surviving spouses in some cases would be eligible for only a partial rather than full exemption. Im proud to carry this legislation to ensure that the surviving spouses of US military members who died in the line of duty receive the full real estate tax exemptions they deserve, Rouse said in a statement. These families have already borne the heaviest of burdens, and it is our responsibility to ensure that we continue to support them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers have made several changes regarding the matter in recent years. In 2015, the General Assembly passed a partial exemption on real estate taxes for surviving spouses of military members who were killed in action that is, during battle or at enemy hands. That did not include people who were killed in the line of duty, such as those who might have died in training or as a result of other causes associated with military duties. The exemption, which did not provide for locality input, applied up to the average assessed value of a single-family home, and anything over that would be taxed at the going rate, hence the term partial. Then in 2022, the legislature passed a law that created a tax classification for surviving spouses of military members who died in the line of duty. That meant localities could set their own tax rate for qualifying surviving spouses. The Virginia Beach City Council set that rate at a millionth of a cent, so no bills were sent. In the fall, Virginians overwhelmingly voted to pass a referendum that removed the distinction for surviving spouses of military members who were killed in action and died in the line of duty. Under the referendum, surviving spouses in both classes qualify for a partial, rather than a full, exemption on property taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those that had previously received a benefit under the line of duty designation actually started losing some of their benefit because of the recent voter referendum, said Phil Kellam, commissioner of the revenue in Virginia Beach. I dont think it was intentional, but it is one of those byproducts of that legislation. Kellam, whose job is to administer local tax laws, said the proposed change would impact just dozens of spouses. The property tax benefit to Virginia Beach is less than $250,000, he said. Feggans is also proposing legislation that would expand the definition of line of duty to include military members who died by suicide. In Virginia, suicide is considered a criminal act, which means commissioners and the state are not allowed to use tax benefits for surviving spouses in those cases. Feggans served 20 years in the Air Force as a health services management professional and helped determine whether military members died in the line of duty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive been directly in the room, letting the families know the benefits they receive, he said. Ive lost brothers in arms to suicide. Its personal to me as well, but its the right thing to do. Kate Seltzer, kate.seltzer@virginiamedia.com The first two months of Marylands 90-day session will likely be markedly different from the final one, presiding officers say. Why? The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, a Republican who campaigned on strict alterations to existing Democratic policy, has state lawmakers uncertain regarding how theyll need to respond in a year where Marylands purse strings are particularly tight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ill be honest: This upcoming legislative session is not going to be easy with the uncertainty felt by so many right now, House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, a Baltimore County Democrat, said Monday. Trump will be inaugurated Jan. 20. The Maryland General Assembly gavels in at noon on Jan. 8. Everything remains on the table. Thats going to be the theme of the session. I know that blueprint means a lot of uncertainty for folks, which is going to be what the session feels like for the first 60 days, Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Baltimore Democrat, said in an interview Monday. We have to learn what the new administration is going to do the impacts there and so there is very likely a lot of dynamic impacts that were going to have to account for by the time we leave in April. Ferguson said he is anxiously awaiting the approach a new Trump administration will take and what comes to fruition policy-wise, including the potential elimination of the U.S. Department of Education, a shift in the cost that states may pay for programs like Medicaid, and the incoming presidents plan for tariffs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well get a signal pretty early on as to how expansive some of these projected cuts will be when the administration comes on board, Ferguson said. Marylands legislative session begins Wednesday. Lawmakers will spend weeks mulling over the state budget while navigating a nearly $3 billion deficit. Ferguson said the budget will drive everything in 2025. The budget is generally settled in the sessions final weeks. That, paired with the potential desire to mitigate Trump administration policy, could make for a jam-packed late March and early April. The governor is poised to release his budget proposal Jan. 15. The session is scheduled to end on April 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Restructuring our state government in a way that is financially stable and allows us to be competitive is going to be the foundation of basically every decision we make this year, Ferguson said. We really have to have a hard look and hard conversations about what we can afford to do in Maryland and how we pay for it, and thats going to take some significant restructuring of a lot of formulas and commitments, and we have to have a comprehensive approach of what were doing moving forward. Ferguson said that anything that has an annual funding formula-based increase from education to health care to land preservation will be open to discussion for adjustments. Jones said that, given the shortfall, the House will be looking at all our options to raise additional revenue. We cant cut our way out of the fiscal situation we are facing, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Echoing Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat, Ferguson said that raising revenues is a very high bar because we want to make sure that Marylanders can keep as much money in their pockets to spend and use as they like. But he clarified that wont prohibit the legislature from minding its key priorities, like investments in health care and education. Buzz has swirled about potential cutbacks to The Blueprint for Marylands Future, a multibillion-dollar education reform plan poised to be enacted over the better part of a decade. The program is currently fully funded through the 2027 fiscal year. Moore, who testified in favor of the law in early 2020, signaled during the Maryland Association of Counties winter conference in December that his administration will sponsor a bill to reform the Blueprint, including its collaborative time policy for teachers, which gives them increased time for curriculum planning, grading, and professional development outside of the classroom. House and Senate Republicans said last month that a bill was being drafted to do away with the provision that mandates pre-kindergarten for three-year-olds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ferguson said that the talking points that Maryland is facing budget challenges related to the Blueprint are just simply not true. Our deficit is caused by entitlement spending and health care costs and childcare subsidies, he said. Its an interesting talking point. It isnt a factually accurate one to say that the Blueprint is driving the cost. According to Ferguson, even if the legislature cut $500 million from the Blueprint this session, it wouldnt help close a single dollar toward the gap that exists because the money for the program sits in a special fund. He did concede, however, that adjustments will need to be made to the program in 2025. I dont think thats rolling back, he said. I think thats doing the basic functioning of governing to manage a program to what is actually happening on the ground, and so that will happen this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones said that the House chamber will have a high bar for any cuts to the Blueprint. Aside from potential Trump challenges and Marylands budget woes, the presiding officers plan to address the cost of energy for residents, including moving away from coal and brainstorming ways to create electricity domestically through wind, solar, water, and natural gas. We must listen to our constituents who are telling us that their energy costs are too high, Jones said. The urgency around energy prices and climate demand an all-of-the-above approach. The pair also wants to focus on the rising cost of health care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones said she plans to expand access to behavioral health care and increase the affordability of prescription drugs. A Gonzales poll of 811 registered voters in Maryland conducted between Dec. 27 and Jan. 4 on behalf of Maryland Citizens Health Initiative found that 83% of those asked believe that drug companies can afford to make their drugs less expensive based on their profits and advertising spending. Jones also said Monday that she plans to work this session to make housing more affordable, and to protect the rights of communities that have been historically and disproportionately affected by certain policies. Those bills are still being drafted. ______ I recently purchased a 2025 calendar from the local dollar store. I am marking each day on the calendar with a big X as I count down the next two weeks. This is my way of accepting that which I cannot change and not succumbing to the fantasies that will be sold, with increasing fervor and mania, by the hope-peddlers and hopium sellers to an increasingly afraid and desperate public. Donald Trump will take power for a second time on Jan. 20. Trumps return to power and his election for a second time should have vanquished naive beliefs in the fundamental decency of the American people and the eternal nature of American democracy. Alas, I doubt that it has. As Rebecca Solnit writes in her solemn election 2024 post-mortem essay at The Guardian, Our mistake was to think we lived in a better country than we do. During these next weeks, Americans who believe in real democracy, the rule of law, pluralism and human decency will experience a range of negative emotions. These emotions will be greatly amplified once Trump takes office and in the (at least) next four years while he is in power. These negative feelings and emotions may become so severe that numbness and learned helplessness take over; this is the outcome that pro-democracy and other Americans of honor and conscience must work very hard not to succumb to permanently during the long Trumpocene. To that point, public opinion polls and other research in the aftermath of the 2024 election show a consistent pattern of frustration, a belief that the country is heading in the wrong direction, a crisis of faith in the countrys institutions and a significant number of (white) Americans who possess authoritarian values and endorse Trumps strongman politics and personality cult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Trump will lead a nation very different from the one that booted him from office four years ago," Max Burns warns in a new essay at The Hill, noting that "since then, millions of Americans have told campaign pollsters that they place a personal allegiance to Trump above their belief in the Constitution": The number of people willing to consider alternatives to democracy is at a level last seen during the crises of the 1930s.It doesnt take a political science expert to realize that the America Trump has in mind cant coexist with democracy and that Trumps most committed voters dont actually want to coexist in a constitutional democracy [.] The frightening reality of 2025 isnt that Trump might attempt some end-run around the democratic process. Its that he may not need to. Both the MAGA faithful and Trump-leaning independents are still racing rightward in terms of what theyll excuse from a Trump administration. If Democrats think they can rely on the same anti-Trump messaging that carried them in 2020, they are catastrophically wrong. That audience is gone, and it isnt coming back. Democrats are quoting laws to people carrying swords. 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. This is part two of a four-part series. Katherine Stewart is the author of the forthcoming book, Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy. Its fine to acknowledge our feelings, but this is no time to retreat under the covers. We have to get out of our own heads and think about the battles ahead. After the election it was understandable to want to take a break, maybe disconnect for a few weeks or days and arm oneself with emotional/mental/spiritual tools for the challenges ahead. Now is the time for moral courage. We must figure out how to do better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are elections in 2026 and 2028; we should aim to be more committed and effective in turning out the base of voters who share democratic values, as well as reaching out to and earning the trust of low-propensity voters. In the run-up to the election, I watched as the MAGA movement worked not only to turn out its base but to concentrate on low-propensity voters, on young people and on religious voters in swing states. I watched as they deployed misinformation and the politics of outrage to mobilize new voters as well as allow others to justify their vote for a patently corrupt and unfit candidate. I watched them campaign throughout the election cycle rather than toward the end of it. So while I cant claim any powers of foresight, I am not all that surprised by Trumps victory. Unfortunately, as of yet, there is no substantial equivalent to the Christian nationalist movement on the other side of the political aisle. The authoritarian right is not bigger, but it is better organized, more integrated, more disciplined and more ruthless than anything on the side of democracy. So if we want to save democracy, we are going to have to organize back. Funders need to get smarter about their political giving and we need to develop the organizational infrastructure for a parallel movement. The opposition to MAGA, broadly speaking, has a lot of catching up to do. But I continue to believe that there are more Americans who wish to preserve our democratic principles than abandon them for some sort of kleptocratic and despotic theocracy. If there is the broad political will to get it done, it can be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remember, again, that Trump only won by a relatively small margin. There is no structural feature of the American political system, as of yet, thats going to keep the MAGA movement in power indefinitely. The fact remains that they have a president who won by less than two percent of the vote, along with slim majorities in the House and Senate. Consider their weaknesses: MAGA draws on multiple factions including oligarchic funders, the religious right, the New Right, libertarians, Q-Anoners and white nativists, parent activists radicalized by disinformation, health skeptics, a small sector of the far left and others, all of whom worked together to bring slim majorities of voters to their side. But the agendas and interests of these different groups are not always consistent, and the contradictions can and should be highlighted. The most challenging aspect of this battle is the information war. Last month I attended Turning Point USAs AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona. Speaker after speaker told us that RINOs and Democrats are communists, barbarians, and satanic agents of evil who wish to destroy the American family. We were told that public schools basically exist to change childrens gender and were assured that a government run by and for the pleasure of ultrarich donors is going to improve the economic fortunes of the working and middle classes. None of this is remotely true, of course, and there are plenty of Americans who have not been drawn into these fact-free conspiracy holes. We need to start working now to reach them with the truth before the other side influences them with pernicious lies. We should certainly prepare ourselves for four years of buffoonery and incompetence. We can expect the raiding of our public resources by Trump cronies and some effort, on their part, to intimidate, if not persecute, his political enemies. But we need to stay focused now on strategy, organizational infrastructure and voter turnout going forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When they lost in 2020, the MAGA movement didnt roll over. They simply resolved to fight harder. In addition to spreading lies, including the lie that the election was stolen, and backing a disgraceful insurrection, they hired large numbers of ballot chasers. They committed to early voting and ballot harvesting. They organized conservative faith leaders and gave them sophisticated tools for turning out their congregations and followers to vote for their preferred candidates. They tasked trusted voices within communities to court voters over the long term, hosting (for example) voter-awareness barbecues in March, well in advance of the November election. Above all, they found new populations to evangelize with untruths and mobilize the vote with the politics of outrage. We would not wish to emulate their most craven tactics, of course, but could learn something from their strategic resolve. D. Earl Stephens is the author of Toxic Tales: A Caustic Collection of Donald J. Trumps Very Important Letters." His website is Enough Already. I am feeling profound disappointment in my country, but this latest nightmare was not wholly unexpected after the blast in November of 2016. I typed this off to my readers in the wee hours following Trumps win: I have absolutely no regrets. This time, I fully knew what my country was capable of and I did everything I could to work toward a better outcome. If the majority of my country is OK with an America-attacking, vulgar racist, whose only true talent is the ability to somehow always go lower, I find it terribly, terribly sad and wildly dangerous. This does not make me a better or worse person than anyone else, it just makes me, me, and I am very proud and comfortable with that. And if you stood for what is good ... and right and decent, you should be plenty proud of yourselves, too. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. Again, I am surprised only by how little respect Americans have for the office of the President of the United States and our country. I thought Kamala Harris would win, and in hindsight, it does seem foolish. I believe I told you in a conversation in the weeks before the election that I feared millions of Americas white men were gearing up to do the worst possible thing. Turns out, it was even worse than that. The traitor who attacked us didn't win a mandate, but he did win convincingly. We can no longer find solace in the fact that there are more of us than there are them. Thats the most frightening thing of all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Looking to Inauguration Day, I suppose I have been handling this the same way I did pre-election. Back then (feels like years ago now), I would not allow myself to consider the terrible ramifications of a Trump win. I was solely focused on getting Harris across the finish line. I have not listened to a word the America-attacker has said since, nor do I plan to. He and his enablers make me sick. I plan to fight back and hope that the opposition has learned some hard lessons in defeat namely the need to sharpen our messaging and take it everywhere. The notion that anti-union, pro-oligarch Republicans led by a tax-cheating clown somehow care about the working class more than Democrats is absolutely absurd and proof of the magic of nuclear-powered propaganda. I am dubious that it will be as bad as everybody thinks. Until Republicans show me that they understand how to govern and build instead of destroy, there is hope for a Democratic resurgence. Its always easier to attack than defend. That's as optimistic as I can get because the alternative is gruesome. Keep a close eye on what Trump does in relationship to the military and how the Department of Defense reacts to his incursion. If nothing else remember this: NOTHING Trump does with our military will be to protect the citizens of the United States of America. EVERYTHING Trump does with our military will be to protect himself from the citizens of the United States of America. Military leadership must push back, or the consequences will be dire. Federico Finchelstein is a professor of history at the New School for Social Research and Eugene Lang College in New York. His most recent book is "A Brief History of Fascist Lies." I am not surprised about the outcome of the election. Sadly, demagoguery, manipulation and lies work with unhappy citizens in modern democracies. Complex realities and facts are always more difficult to represent than fake statements and repetitions. In hindsight, I dont think Democrats were able to convey an interest in problems that concern many people, especially regarding economic and cultural issues. I am not surprised about that. And I also think they did not give themselves time to focus on the best candidate and the best proposals to make this country more equal and fair. I am worried about the risk to democratic institutions that Trumpism represents. In short, dark times are coming but Trumpism like any apocalyptic cult is worse in defeat. Eventually, it will fail as its fascist and populist predecessors did, but first, the country will suffer. HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Wanted Fugitive out of Harris County was named featured fugitive for January. 23-year-old Jrdon Mykel Joe is wanted for Murder and has been on the run since August 2024. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Jrdon Mykel Joe, of Humble Texas, has been wanted for Murder out of Harris County after he allegedly shot a man in a parking lot off IH-45 on July 12, 2024. Officials reported that Joes criminal history also includes prior arrests for drug and violent offenses. Joe is 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs about 160 pounds. For more information about Joe, click here. The Governors Public Safety Office Texas Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to any person who provides information that leads to an arrest. The reward for information leading to Joes arrest is increased to $4,000 for the month if the tip is received in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be eligible for cash rewards, tipsters must provide information to authorities using one of the following three methods: Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477). Submit a web tip through the DPS website by selecting the fugitive you have information about and then clicking on the link under their picture. Or, you can submit a Facebook tip by clicking the SUBMIT A TIP link (under the About section). All tips are anonymous regardless of how they are submitted and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. By Jasper Ward WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Europe, the Middle East and Asia from Jan. 13 through Jan. 17, the White House said on Tuesday. The trip, which will likely be Harris' last as vice president before leaving office on Jan. 20, will have stops in Singapore, Bahrain, and Germany, according to the White House. She will be accompanied by her husband, Doug Emhoff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House said Harris will meet with leaders and visit Changi Naval Base while in Singapore on Jan. 15. The following day, she will meet with leaders in Manama, Bahrain, and visit Naval Support ActivityBahrain, the headquarters of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and the U.S. 5th Fleet, it added. On Jan. 16, Harris will be in Spangdahlem, Germany, to visit the U.S. Air Force 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base, according to the White House. "Throughout her trip, the vice president will discuss the accomplishments of the Biden-Harris Administration over the past four years in each region, the U.S. partnership with the respective nations, the contributions of U.S. military forces to regional and global security, and the enduring national security interests of the United States," the White House said. It added that Harris will engage with U.S. servicemembers during the trip. (Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Alistair Bell) SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A former Hartford chiropractor is behind bars for child pornography. On Tuesday afternoon, a Minnehaha County Judge Sandra Hoglund Hanson sentenced 32-year-old Joel Martens to 10 years in prison. For Noem, raising fees not the same as raising taxes In addition to child pornography, Martens pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a minor and sexual contact with a child by a person in authority. The judge gave him suspended sentences for those crimes, so he wont have to serve additional time as he stays out of trouble. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court Tuesday, the judge heard from Martens and his victim, who was also his patient. Well have details from the courtroom on KELOLAND News at 6 and online. KELOLAND News first told you about Martens in July 2023, when he was arrested for allegedly having sexual contact with a 16-year-old in 2021 at Lemkes Fitness and Training in Hartford. According to court documents, thats where he first used his hands to penetrate her during her workout. The two later had sex at the ChiroSport clinic in Hartford. Court documents say it happened more than 100 times during appointments and twice at Martens home. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) A dentist and her former New Haven practices have agreed to pay more than $600,000 to resolve allegations they violated the federal and state False Claims Acts, according to U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut Vanessa Roberts Avery on Tuesday. Lakshmi Bethi, New Haven Dental LLC, New Haven Family Dental LLC, and New Haven Family Dental Group LLC have agreed to pay $608,296.39 to reimburse the Medicaid program. Couple suing Connecticut medical company over destroyed embryos Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bethi is licensed to practice in Connecticut. Her former businesses were dental providers in the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program, which includes the states Medicaid program. According to Averys office, Bethi and her practices filed claims to the CTMAP for dental services completed on Medicaid patients referred to them by a third-party patient recruiting company. The recruiter was allegedly paid $110 for each patient who received more than routine preventative care, which is a direct violation of the CTAMAP manual. Virginia woman faces jail time after practicing illegal dentistry With each submitted claim, they impliedly certified that the conditions of receiving payment were met, including, but not limited to, that they did not pay kickbacks or violate any terms or provisions of the Connecticut Dental Health Partnership (CTDHP) provider manual concerning the submitted claim, Averys office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alleged crime happened between Jan. 1, 2019 and April 6, 2023. Bethi also pleaded guilty in a related federal criminal case to conspiracy to violate the federal anti-kickback statute. She admitted to paying recruiters more than $360,000 in kickbacks over seven years. In December of 2024, she was sentenced in New Haven federal court to two years of probation and was ordered to forfeit $500,000. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Six burn patients who were transported to Phoenix from Hawaii following a fireworks explosion on New Years Eve will likely take six to 12 months before they can live any resemblance of their normal lives, officials from the Arizona Burn Center Valleywise Health said Monday. The burns covered between 45% of body surface area and 80% of body surface area on the patients, Kevin Foster, director of the Arizona Burn Center said. All six are intubated and in medically induced comas, but Foster said doctors are hopeful they will be able to remove the breathing tube for one of the patients in the next couple of days. Four of the patients will likely need to remain in medically induced comas for the next few weeks. Despite long roads ahead full of surgeries and lifelong effects, Foster said, by and large, they are all out of the woods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The six are in their 20s and 30s, Foster said, and all are stable with good vital signs. The patients were injured in an explosion that killed four people, according to the Associated Press, and injured more than 20. In a Jan. 1 news 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. "It looked like a war zone," Honolulu Fire Chief Sheldon Hao said during the press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii's only burn center is located on Oahu where the incident took place, but beds are limited. Valleywise leaders said the Diane and Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, Arizona's only burn center and one of the largest in the country, can help. The transportation of the patients was coordinated with the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserves. Luke Air Force Base officials and the Phoenix Fire Department transported the patients when they arrived in Arizona, Foster said. Some patients required surgeries before they could be transported from Hawaii, and almost all had multiple projectile injuries from the explosion, he said. The patients have all been undergoing surgeries since arriving, and after tomorrow all of the burns should be removed from the patients, Foster said. After they are removed, doctors can start closing the wounds and doing skin grafting, which he said can be a dangerous process because of the likelihood of infection. Foster said burn injuries are very difficult to deal with and can vary greatly between patients. Burns can often be a lifelong injury, he said, because of the scars and physical limitations that patients have to deal with. They are also highly likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is something uniquely and particularly horrifying about being burned, he said. He said patients usually do remember the burn incidents. Family members of the patients are beginning to arrive in Phoenix, Foster said. The hospital and some foundations associated with the hospital will be providing housing for them, and some employees of the hospital have volunteered to host people in their homes. Foster said the Arizona Burn Center is prepared to care for the patients until they are fully ready to be released from the hospital, but some could choose to go back home and receive care there once they are able. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Arizona Burn Center has 50 beds total but does sometimes exceed that capacity and boards patients elsewhere but never turns away a patient, Foster said. However, even with the additional patients from Hawaii, the center has 10 beds still available for other patients suffering burns. Arizona Republic reporter Lauren De Young contributed to this story. Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter @CorinaVanek. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hawaii fireworks burn victims treated in AZ could be here for months Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) warned that President-elect Trumps nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as secretary of Health and Human Services could damage the nations health. The president has been reelected, and he has to lead a country in a way that will take care of our people and protect people who are vulnerable. Some of his nominees are not the right choices, Green said during a Monday evening appearance on CNNs OutFront. Green said his comments werent based on public facing interviews but personal experiences with Kennedy in Samoa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RFK Jr. has really given me pause about what he might do, he might actually damage the health of our nation terribly if he behaves how he did in Samoa, he told anchor Erin Burnett. The Hawaiian governor, who is a doctor, said Kennedy in Samoa promoted misinformation and torpedoed the vaccination program. Afterward, measles cases increased by 5,000, which totaled 83 deaths, mostly children, Green said. When RFK Jr. got to Samoa he went through the Childrens Defense Fund nonprofit he founded and pushes, he used misinformation to scare all of the people of Samoa away from getting vaccinated. He did not share what happened, Green stated. The governor meant to reference the Childrens Health Defense, a non-profit activist group founded by Kennedy which has no affiliation with the Childrens Defense Fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Torpedoes the vaccination program. Met with the prime minister and the minister of health. I met with the same people. He scared them away from vaccinations, vaccinations dropped for measles, mumps, rubella down to 31 percent in their country, he continued. If you get lower than 90 or 95 percent you get huge outbreaks. So, suddenly, because of the misinformation he was sharing, no one was vaccinated. Green urged Democratic and Republican lawmakers to block Kennedy from being confirmed, raising flags about the likelihood of low vaccination rates spiking disease outbreaks in children and others. The Hill has reached out to Kennedy for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy said he would not take away vaccines during Trumps second term if confirmed by the Senate but would encourage people to make individual assessments on immunizations, in an interview with NBC News. If vaccines are working for somebody, Im not going to take them away. People ought to have [a] choice, and that choice ought to be informed by the best information, he said. So Im going to make sure scientific safety studies and efficacy are out there, and people can make individual assessments about whether that product is going to be good for them, Kennedy added. Updated at 4:29 pm ET. 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. Law enforcement agents are investigating Serhiy Zvyagintsev, the interim head of Ukraine's State Customs Service, over suspicions that Zvyagintsev failed to declare a home near Kyiv, that has been evaluated to be worth over $100,000, the country's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) said on Jan. 6. Investigators believe that Zvyagintsev and his family are the actual owners of a 236 square meter home, as well as an adjacent plot of land, on the outskirts of Kyiv that is registered under Zvyagintsev's father-in-law. Investigators allege that Zvyagintsev failed to declare the assets between 2021 and 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The system of compulsory asset declarations was originally instituted as part of the country's fight against corruption following the 2013-2014 EuroMaidan Revolution. At the start of the full-scale Russian invasion, the requirement for submitting e-declarations was suspended. President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law in October 2023 to resume asset declarations for officials and immediately make them publicly accessible. Ukraine's National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP) re-opened access to the asset declaration system in December 2023. An investigation, conducted by NABU as well as the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) is ongoing as Zvyagintsev faces charges under Ukraine's Criminal Code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine strikes 3 Russian air defense systems in single day; 3,800 North Korean troops killed, injured in Kursk Oblast Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. As US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy nears the end of his second term as the nations doctor, a final diagnosis of his patient suggests that a great deficiency of connectivity has led to a poor prognosis for Americas overall health and well-being. To treat the widespread pain and unhappiness that has left the country deeply unwell, he says, his parting prescription for the American people is to cultivate a strong sense of community to help themselves and others. Community is a powerful source of life satisfaction and life expectancy, Murthy wrote in an essay published Tuesday. Its where we know each other, help each other, and find purpose in contributing to each others lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Building community creates fulfillment, he said, and there are three key elements that make it possible: connection with others through relationships, acts of service to help others and a sense of purpose in life all pursued through love, instead of fear or hate. Relationships, service, and purpose are the time-tested triad of fulfillment that stands in contrast to wealth, fame, and power which define the modern-day triad of success, Murthy wrote. The triad of success is focused on the individual. The triad of fulfillment connects us with something bigger than the individual, the surgeon general said. The triad of success may earn us praise and possessions. The triad of fulfillment gives us meaning and belonging. The US surgeon general typically serves as the voice of the administrations public health policy while promoting their own agenda of issues that they feel are important to the health of American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This final reflection from Murthy captures themes from his work under multiple administrations, first from 2014 to 2017 under Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump and a second term under President Joe Biden since 2021. His initiatives have focused on the addiction crisis, youth mental health, loneliness and isolation, workplace well-being, parental stress and social medias impact on youth. Social media has turbocharged a culture of constant comparison that too often undermines our self-worth and makes us feel dissatisfied with our lives, Murthy wrote Tuesday. Trying to fill our internal void with approval and accolades and addictive forces isnt helping. Although Murthys latest reflection pulls from personal experience and is not meant to be a scientific report, it does cite about two dozen studies that help show how social connectivity can affect physical and mental health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being socially disconnected increases our risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, anxiety, and premature death, he wrote, yet about a third of adults and half of young people experience loneliness. Individual purpose, anchored in helping others, can also strengthen physical and mental health, Murthy said. A high sense of individual purpose may reduce the risk of early death as well as stroke, lung disease, and dementia for some. Research also shows that people with a strong sense of purpose may experience lower levels of depression and anxiety and greater resilience in the face of stress, he wrote, citing five different studies. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation in the US, Murthy said, but divisiveness has been eroding the countrys well-being for even longer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is fueling not only illness and despair on an individual level, but also pessimism and distrust across society which have all made it painfully difficult to rise together in response to common challenges, he wrote. As I finish my tenure as Surgeon General, this is my parting prescription, my final wish for all of us: Choose community. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a New York family physician and Fox News medical contributor, is Trumps pick to replace Murthy as surgeon general in his new administration. Several health experts have said that shes a reasonable choice but that she may be tested with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist, as Trumps pick to helm the US Department of Health and Human Services. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com BOSTON (SHNS) Governor Maura Healey on Monday announced a review of shelter policy amid a barrage of questions over how a Dominican national who the feds say entered the country illegally came to be at a Revere family shelter with 10 pounds of lethal drugs and a large-capacity rifle. The December arrest of 28-year-old Leonardo Andujar Sanchez was announced last week by the Revere Police Department, which said its officers and the Suffolk County Sheriffs Department recovered an estimated $1 million worth of fentanyl and a loaded AR-15 with ammo from a room at the Quality Inn in Revere. Healey plan limits family shelter stays to six months Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its outrageous that this individual took advantage of our shelter system to engage in criminal activity, Healey said in a press statement on Monday. She added: 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. Healeys statement came after members of the House Republican Caucus wrote to the governor earlier in the day about their deep concerns and outrage raised by last weeks headlines out of Revere. The GOP lawmakers, led by Rep. Bradley Jones Jr., sent a copy of their letter to Housing Secretary Edward Augustus, whose office oversees the emergency assistance shelter system. How is it possible an undocumented immigrant here illegally is receiving a benefit of emergency family shelter, caucus members wrote to Healey, even though our laws do not allow it? How is it this individual wasnt flagged in a so-called comprehensive background check upon application for shelter? How is it despite the strict gun laws of the Commonwealth this individual was allegedly able to acquire a high-capacity firearm? How was a criminal enterprise being run out of a family shelter as he allegedly obtained fentanyl and cocaine that he was allegedly selling from the shelters motel room? Sen. Ryan Fattman put it as bluntly in an interview with the News Service on Monday: What the hell is the vetting process? Whos looking at these people? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanchez was arraigned last week in Chelsea District Court on trafficking in fentanyl and 10 firearm charges, according to Revere police. Sanchez is a Dominican national who unlawfully entered the U.S. on an unknown date at an unknown location sometime within the past year, according to Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston, a law enforcement directorate within ICE, which said it has filed an immigration detainer in his case. Immigration detainers are aimed at criminal noncitizens, according to ERO Boston, and request that the local jurisdiction alert ICE before that person is released from custody. Mr. Andujar [Sanchez] has been accused of serious crimes, and ERO Boston takes its public safety mission very seriously which is why weve lodged an immigration detainer against him with Revere police. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has charged him with possessing dangerous weapons and drug trafficking, and with the Revere Police Departments cooperation, we intend to take him into ICE custody upon his release, ERO Boston acting field office director Patricia Hyde said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ERO Boston has complained in recent months of Massachusetts courts disregarding its immigration detainers. The Supreme Judicial Courts 2017 Lunn ruling found that state law provides no authority for Massachusetts court officers to arrest and hold an individual solely on the basis of a Federal civil immigration detainer. And the Trial Courts official policy for interacting with ICE says that people should not be processed or handled any differently because they are subject to a detainer. That prompted Sen. Fattman, a Sutton Republican, to kick off Monday mornings Senate session with a floor speech decrying a lack of legislative followup on the seven-year-old Lunn decision. And since 2017 we have done nothing, Fattman said on the floor. Nothing to change the standard, nothing to change this law. While some of us have tried, present company included, Im telling you today that that attempt is going to continue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House and Senate Republicans filed a Lunn response bill in October 2024, which they said would allow state courts to hold convicted criminals and repeat offenders who have been subsequently arrested for additional crimes and who are subject to an immigration detainer by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. That bill died without action at the end of the term on New Years Eve. Fattman told the News Service that Republicans are working to file a series of relevant bills this term. Many of the people who are coming here through the Right To Shelter Law are good people. Theyre good families. They want to make a better life. But guess what? Criminals arent stupid, and they know how to take advantage of laws, and they do it all the time. And they get a free place to stay while trafficking drugs out of a hotel room. I mean, its outrageous. And it must end, Fattman said. State Republican Party Chair Amy Carnevale also knocked Sanchez alleged crimes at the family shelter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why are long-term Massachusetts families left waiting for emergency housing while a criminal illegal immigrant is conducting a criminal enterprise from within state-funded housing? This amounts to state-funded crime, Carnevale said. Healey said her administration was talking with local law enforcement and federal immigration officials about the Sanchez case, and pinned some of the blame on federal inaction. 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. Top Beacon Hill Democrats supported a border security bill last February that was endorsed by President Joseph Biden and featured major immigration reforms. Massachusetts Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey joined their Republican Senate counterparts in blocking the bills advancement despite entreaties from Healey, Senate President Karen Spilka, and House Speaker Ronald Mariano. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A comedian with a familiar surname is looking to make Miami Valley residents laugh. Chris Rock is used to performing for some large crowds (see SNL 1990-1993). Tony Rock is too, but not quite to the level of the former. Then theres Jordan, the most affordable Rock. Jordan Rock will perform at the Laugh Zone House of Comedy on Sunday, Jan. 19. Rocks set titled Rock the Party is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Rock is the headliner, the show will begin at 6 p.m. with jokes by Dionte Allen and Funny Guyfish. Tickets for the event are $25 plus a 63 cent service fee. Click here for ticket details. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sen. Elizabeth Warren called out Pete Hegseth for his unorthodox tattoos and conspiracy theories in a letter to the Department of Defense nominee outlining her concerns about his appointment. The Massachusetts senator wrote to the Fox News personality in the letter, obtained by the Washington Post, that she was deeply concerned about his fitness for the role. Your confirmation as Secretary of Defense would be detrimental to our national security and disrespect a diverse array of service members who are willing to sacrifice for our country, she wrote in the 33-page letter sent Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She cited how in 2021 when Hegseth was a National Guardsman, he was blocked from providing security at President Joe Bidens inauguration after he was deemed an insider threat because of his Deus Vult tattoo. Deus Vult, which Hegseth has written on his bicep, means God Wills It in Latin. Originally used by Christian crusaders in the Middle Ages, the phrase is now associated with right-wing extremism. We cannot have a Defense Secretary whose fellow servicemembers feel concerned enough about to report as a potential insider threat, Warren wrote. The National Guard report that excluded Hegseth from Bidens inauguration also included photos of his Jerusalem cross tattoo, which has a long history in Christianity but has also been co-opted by the far-right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident, which was first reported on in December, caused Hegseth to leave the National Guard. He wrote in his book, The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free, that he felt targeted and rejected by the military. The feeling was mutual - I didnt want this Army anymore either, he wrote. The letter also calls out Hegseths conspiracy theories surrounding Jan. 6, including that the attack was actually carried out by leftists pretending to be Trump supporters. Warren noted how Hegseth refused to concede that Trump lost the 2020 election. We cannot have a Secretary of Defense who is peddling conspiracy theories and making claims that are devoid of reality, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter also details reports of Hegseths alcohol abuse, sexual misconduct and opposition to diversity in the military. He has denied allegations of sexual assault against him and said that he does not have a drinking problem. Hegseth will appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee for his confirmation hearing on Jan. 14. In her letter, Warren warned Hegseth that he should be ready to respond to questions about her concerns and asked that he first reply in writing by Friday. For the record: 10:40 a.m. Jan. 8, 2025: An earlier version of this article misidentified Mette Frederiksen as the prime minister of Greenland. She is the prime minister of Denmark. Although President-elect Donald Trump will not take office for almost two weeks, he is already making his "America First" mantra a priority and it may include other parts of the globe. Trump proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico and would not rule out using military force in Panama in a meandering news conference that touched on several fiery foreign policy points Tuesday. 'All hell will break out in the Middle East' Trump weighed in on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, promising to carry out vague threats if hostages are not returned to Israel by Inauguration Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East, and it will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone," he said. Dozens of people are still being held hostage in Gaza, 15 months after the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, when Hamas killed about 1,200 people and took about 250 others captive. Since then, Israel has blitzed Gaza and the West Bank, killing more than 45,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. The United States has been negotiating with Israel and Hamas, as well as other regional states, to end the conflict and free the hostages for more than a year, and has made steady progress but has not concluded a deal. Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, said at the news conference Tuesday that he was traveling to Doha, Qatar's capital, to continue negotiations, even though Trump's administration does not take office for another two weeks. "I think that we've had some really great progress, and I'm really hopeful that by the inaugural we'll have some good things to announce on behalf of the president," Witkoff said. It is not clear what actual authority Witkoff has before Trump becomes president. 'Gulf of America' As always, Trump's focus quickly turned to the southern border, where he said the administration would rename the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Which has a beautiful ring," he said. "That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. And it's appropriate." The Gulf of Mexico covers the entire eastern coast of Mexico and stretches from the southernmost tip of Texas to the bottom of Florida. Trump reiterated that he planned to establish tariffs on Mexican goods, as a way to make the southern neighbor pay for allowing drugs and immigrants into the United States. Trump's tariff threats have sent a chill through Mexico's leadership as President Claudia Sheinbaum, who took office Oct. 1, faces her first potential crisis. Read more: Judge temporarily blocks release of special counsel report on Trump cases as court fight simmers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has gone out of her way to try to convince the Trump team that Mexico is cracking down on fentanyl trafficking and illegal migration. But she has also had to navigate a delicate balancing act not offending Trump while also standing up for Mexico's sovereignty under the tariff threats, which, if implemented, experts say, could send Mexico into a deep recession and trigger retaliatory tariffs by Mexico against imports of U.S. goods. Mexico is the United States' largest trading partner, with back-and-forth trade exceeding $800 billion annually. Sheinbaum announced a campaign against domestic usage of fentanyl in Mexico in her regular morning news conference earlier Tuesday. She reiterated her country's efforts to curb production and distribution of fentanyl destined for U.S. markets. "We are combating" the distribution of fentanyl, Sheinbaum told reporters, citing the recent seizure of more than 500,000 fentanyl pills the largest such takedown in Mexico's history in the northwestern state of Sinaloa, a hub of fentanyl production and distribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also ramped up his rhetorical broadsides against Mexico, asserting that Mexico "is essentially run by the cartels. .... Can't let that happen. Mexico is really in trouble. A lot of trouble. Very dangerous place." Mexican authorities have repeatedly denied that cartels control the country, though security experts say that organized crime does hold sway over vast swaths of Mexican territory. Mexican officials have also rejected suggestions by Trump and allies of possible U.S. military strikes on cartel strongholds, and pushed back against the idea occasionally floated by Trump and supporters of designating Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations. President-elect Donald Trump at Tuesday's news conference. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) Trump does not rule out using military in Panama or Greenland The president-elect took aim at the Panama Canal, a recent frequent target of his. He alleged that the canal is in disrepair and that China should foot the bill to fix it, adding that the United States is charged more for using the trading waterway than other countries. The U.S. is one of the largest users of the waterway, and fees, while lower than those tied to other canals such as the Suez, have gone up because of the drought afflicting much of Central America, exacerbated by human-caused climate change. Trump has falsely claimed Chinese soldiers are operating the canal, although it is true that China has made infrastructural and economic inroads in Panama and throughout the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They've overcharged our ships, overcharged our Navy, and then when they need repair money, they come to the United States to put it up. We get nothing," he said. "Those days are over." He also referred to annexing Greenland, an island with about 56,000 residents that is a territory of Denmark. "We need Greenland for national security purposes," Trump said. "I'm talking about protecting the free world. You don't even need binoculars. You look outside, you have China ships all over the place. You have Russian ships all over the place. We're not going to let that happen." Read more: Newsom's new budget sounds more Republican than radical left Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denmark's prime minister quickly shot down any suggestions of a Trump takeover. "Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders," Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said, according to TV 2. "As President, I want to express precisely that every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent area belong to PANAMA, and will continue to be," Panama President Jose Raul Mulino said in a statement last month. "The sovereignty and independence of our country are not negotiable." When a reporter asked Trump on Tuesday whether he would commit to not using "military or economic coercion" in Panama or Greenland, Trump's answer came swiftly: "No." Trump also added that negotiating Panama's maintenance of the canal was one of the failed legacies of the late President Carter, whose funeral Trump is scheduled to attend this week. In fact, control of the canal that cuts across Panama long a symbol of U.S. imperialism was ended at the urging of the U.S. military, which said, long before Carter came to office, that maintaining and operating it was not sustainable. Carter's decision was widely hailed and earned the U.S. great political capital throughout Latin America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pinho and Wilkinson reported from Washington, D.C. McDonnell reported from Mexico City. 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. Mayor Brandon Johnsons bid to reset his agenda for the new year was eclipsed Tuesday by a remarkably direct attack from Gov. JB Pritzker, following the governors rare defeat in Springfield concerning hemp regulations the mayor opposed. Johnson scheduled a series of interviews with local reporters after a bruising year in 2024. But before they began Tuesday afternoon, Pritzker delivered some of his sharpest criticism yet of the mayor, saying he and his representatives dont do the work to maintain relationships in the statehouse. At an unrelated news conference, the governor staunchly defended his support for the bill to strongly regulate hemp sales that now appears unlikely to advance. Johnson spent the past several days lobbying against the legislation, citing revenue concerns for the city, until the House vote was pulled Monday evening due to apparent lack of support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pritzker maintained the bills regulation of hemp, used in products such as delta-8 and delta-10 THC that get users high, is a public health priority but refused to give Johnson any credit for halting his efforts during the final stretch of the Illinois General Assemblys lame-duck session. The mayor, my impression is he didnt have much to do with this, Pritzker said. He went on to also knock Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch and other House Democrats: Its a tragedy that the bill didnt pass. The mayor had very little to do with the ultimate result. I think there was a raucous meeting of the Democratic House caucus, in which there was a lot of yelling at (Pritzker administration) staff by people who are opposed to the bill, that the Speaker did not intervene about. Certainly what happened with regard to the hemp bill is potentially a demonstration of challenges that the House will have in organizing to overcome some of the challenges that were going to face this spring, Pritzker also said. The governors remarks signaled more discord ahead in the General Assembly, where he has maintained tight control over the supermajority of Democrats, as well as difficulty for Johnsons ongoing Springfield agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor will now be emboldened, fresh off his victory on the hemp issue. But he has an upcoming string of tough requests from the state, including more Chicago Public Schools funding and a bailout on the impending CTA financial cliff. Those come as Illinois is expected to face a multibillion-dollar deficit in its next budget. But during his one-on-one interview with the Tribune Tuesday, Johnson repeatedly deflected questions about the governors pointed criticism. As Chicago goes, the rest of the state goes, he said three times. Johnson opted against hitting back at Pritzker directly, instead praising House Democrats who found themselves at odds with the governor on the hemp issue for standing up for the interest of the residents and the people of Chicago. The governor and I would certainly agree that, as it relates to hemp, that we have to do our part to ensure maximum protection, he said. All we simply said was and Im grateful that the Chicago delegation understood this as well is that local municipalities, including Chicago, have to be part of the conversation to maximize safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked Tuesday about the nature of his relationship with Johnson, Pritzker said, They dont reach out that often. It seems like they dont have good relationships in Springfield, in part because they dont do the outreach thats necessary, Pritzker said. He doesnt call very often. Maybe in the time that hes been mayor, hes called me, perhaps, five times? The governor said Johnson did not call his administration over the hemp bill even as the mayor told state legislators he wanted in on negotiations, a sign Johnson was seeking to go around Pritzkers political apparatus. Regarding the citys recent push to pass a 2025 budget, in which Johnson raced to plug a $1 billion deficit, Pritzker said: Literally the last call that we got from them was in September and then once in December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We, by the way, scheduled calls, Pritzker said. And then they didnt show up. And then there was a December call that happened in which they didnt ask for anything. But again, he has my number. Johnson, for his part, shrugged off the governors pointed criticism on his lack of outreach. He recalled to the Tribune that the last time he spoke with Pritzker was after the Democratic National Convention, regarding how to grow the citys economy. And he maintained his constituents are not concerned with how often he talks to various politicians, despite the fact Pritzker and the General Assembly hold the purse strings for many of the mayors funding asks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look, Im open for more conversations, Johnson said. Were going to continue to work with the governor and (Cook County) Board President (Toni Preckwinkle) as well as all Democrats who share the same value we have to fund these critical services. We cannot move austere budgets that lay people off, cut services and undermine our workforce, right? The mayor on Tuesday also touched on the ongoing saga between him and CPS CEO Pedro Martinez over the direction of the school district, again flatly rejecting the idea of the city taking on a $175 million pension obligation for non-teaching CPS staff. He also prefaced the discussion with: I dont get into these personnel or personality dynamics. Thats not a good use of my intellect. There has been a prevailing form of governance that has been solely based on this solipsistic approach, where people walk in their own arrogance and their egocentric presentation as the end-all, be-all, Johnson said. Its not about one person, right? This is about the vision that I have as a parent, as a former public school teacher. Johnson again cited personnel issues to avoid answering directly when asked whether CTA President Dorval Carter fulfilled his expectations, after the mayor last year said Carter had until the end of 2024 to prove he deserved to stay on. But Johnson shared general praise for the CTAs performance, saying hiring is up and ridership is up to pre-pandemic levels, even though the most recently available data showed that in October bus and train rides were only 71% of 2019 levels. When asked how he responds to critics who say Chicago politics have been chaotic under his watch, Johnson said his leadership should be described with another word: transformational. He listed adding jobs, building affordable housing and expanding mental health care as goals for 2025. SPRINGFIELD Legislation championed by Gov. JB Pritzker to strongly regulate hemp sales stalled in the Illinois House late Monday after intense lobbying by both the governor and Mayor Brandon Johnson, who opposed the measure over revenue concerns. The bill, which had earlier passed the state Senate with nearly no opposition, would license, tax and regulate hemp, which is used for products such as delta-8 and delta-10 THC that get users high. Smoke shops and other stores that sell the product say the law is so restrictive that it would put many of them out of business. Though the legislation set up a natural showdown between the cannabis and hemp industries, it also fueled another flashpoint between the governor and mayor. In the past few days, Johnson reached out to lawmakers to voice his opposition to the bill, according to sources familiar with the mayors outreach. The sources said he expressed concern over how much revenue could be lost on the city of Chicago if the legislation moves forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the House adjourning Monday night without calling the bill, sources said it was uncertain whether the legislation will be brought to a vote before the lame duck session ends at the end of Tuesday. That would be a rare Springfield victory for Johnson politically since he worked actively to drum up opposition to the bill. The legislation might now not get another look until after the next General Assembly is inaugurated on Wednesday. During a closed-door meeting of House members Monday afternoon, the Pritzker administration made staffers from a couple of different state agencies available to field questions about the bill, sources said. The mood in the meeting got tense, with at least one lawmaker berating the staffers during a discussion about the bill, one of the sources said. On Monday night, Pritzkers spokesperson Alex Gough said in a statement the governor was disappointed that lawmakers failed to take bipartisan, common sense action to protect children and the public from unregulated and untested hemp products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Governor is never beholden to special interests and will always put people, especially children, over politics and profits, Gough said. On Tuesday morning, Mayor Johnson issued a statement saying work on hemp regulation will continue. Our communities require legislation that addresses concerns related to minor consumption, as well as opportunities for regulation that support entrepreneurs and municipalities, Johnson said. My team remains eager to be at the table with partners to develop and pass legislation that appropriately regulates hemp products, because our young people are depending on us. Unlike state-licensed legal cannabis, hemp shops have no legal age restriction, no requirements to test and label their products for potency and purity, and dont have to pay the same high fees and taxes. As a result, there have been cases of minors getting medical treatment after ingesting the products, and growing hemp sales have cut into the licensed marijuana market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayors direct involvement in lobbying against the bill came at least two years after discussions to crack down on hemp sales in Illinois began in Springfield. Since Johnson took office in May 2023, hes had a host of other priorities in the statehouse, such as seeking funding for the citys public schools and transit systems, that have met with little success The state is facing down a multibillion-dollar budget deficit in the next fiscal year, further complicating the mayors agenda in Springfield. Johnson and his allies, including Ald. William Hall, 6th, say the city would suffer a massive revenue hole should the hemp bill pass, though it is unclear how exactly sales would be impacted. Halls effort to establish a Chicago hemp tax in November failed, even as City Hall scrambled to close its budget gap with tax and fee hikes. The South Side alderman said Monday he still hopes to implement a hemp tax. But as Springfield has mulled beating the city to the punch, Hall blasted Pritzker for political bullying and predatory politics. He called on the governor to slow down the process, which he described as an effort to curb Chicagos plans to tax hemp products. To excommunicate or exclude Chicago is unfair, and it hurts Chicagoans. This was an opportunity to help Chicagoans in need, Hall said. The governor is going to hurt Chicagoans, period, by excluding Chicago from what would be a fair share of taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For his part, Pritzker threw a party Sunday evening in the governors mansion where he ratcheted up the pressure to pass the bill, sources said. By mid-Monday morning, Pritzker appeared close to having the 60 votes needed for Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch to call a floor vote. But opposition remained from legislators including Rep. La Shawn Ford, a Chicago Democrat who said he was personally contacted by Johnson over the bill. He believes regulating it and taxing it is more beneficial for the health and for the revenue for the city, Ford, who opposes the bill, said of the mayor in an interview on Sunday. Of course, the revenue is important for the mayor but he also wants to make sure that we do it right as far as not creating a new prohibition that will create a new War on Drugs. Hours before the House adjourned Monday night, state Rep. Theresa Mah, a Chicago Democrat, said she opposed the legislation in part because she doesnt want Big Cannabis to be elbowing out the competition. More time could be needed to negotiate on the details of the bill, the Near South Side representative added, even if that means kicking it into the spring legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe that there are a lot of small businesses that produce hemp products that are legitimate small businesses and provide products that the public is interested in. They themselves want to be regulated. Theyre open to it. Mah said. What I would love to see is a passage of an age-restriction standalone bill that would address some of the access issues for people who shouldnt have access. Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado, a Chicago Democrat who supports the bill, said Pritzker reached out to her a few weeks ago, indicating this bill was a priority of his during the final session days for the General Assembly. Im a parent of a 16-year-old, and my office is two blocks away from a high school. Ive heard very scary stories about what is happening in schools with kids everyday who are getting access to Delta08 and Kratom, Delgado said. We have no idea whats in it. This is (the) time for us to step in and put some reasonable regulations. Edgar Gonzalez, a Chicago Democrat who said earlier Monday he was leaning toward voting for the bill if it was called, described the issue as a battle between the hemp and cannabis industries, and expressed frustration that the legislature is immersed in the bickering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I get annoyed when different industries, they come together and then they put us all in the middle of it. If theyre trying to figure this out, figure it out and then clue us in, Gonzalez said. Regulation isnt bad but I think that theres just been a lot of jockeying from both sides, and its come to the point where both sides are starting to annoy everybody. With the stalemate over the issue in Springfield, Chicago Alds. Marty Quinn, 13th, and Silvana Tabares, 23rd, moved to ban hemp products from their Southwest Side wards Tuesday. Their legislation passed unanimously in the License and Consumer Protection Committee and could face a final vote next week. We should not be putting our kids in harms way to make a quick buck, Quinn told the committee. These smoke shops cater dangerous products to children and do not belong in our streets. Several aldermen voiced their support for the ward-level ban and signaled they would consider their own ban soon. Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd, called Johnsons ambitions to get revenue from the hemp sales a pipe dream. Aldermen should weigh a citywide ban on the products, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, dozens of Illinois hemp farmers and small business owners rallied at the state Capitol in opposition to the the bill. Most clientele cannot afford to go to a dispensary and pay outrageous prices and taxes, where we offer a similar product much cheaper, safer, and a lot of times run by family farms locally, said Billy Janicki, a hemp business owner from downstate Vandalia. The hemp lobbys efforts faltered amid a push from the cannabis industry, which opposes hemp products because they eat into potential cannabis sales. Cannabis advocates argue this bill provided an attainable pathway for hemp distributors to acquire a license. Ted Parks, a licensed cannabis distributor, is a part of a social equity cannabis program, which provides accessible opportunities to enter the cannabis industry. He says these businesses struggle to compete with unregulated hemp businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This bill allows a pathway to get the proper licenses, and its going to be less than what we had to go through, Parks said. Chicago received about $5.3 million from its 3% licensed cannabis sales tax in the past year ending in October of 2024, the Illinois Department of Revenue reported. The city and state get additional revenue from sales tax and other fees and taxes on cannabis. Statewide, licensed cannabis sales have reached about $2 billion a year, generating taxes of more than $400 million. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkles spokesperson, Nick Shields, said Monday that she is neutral on the hemp bill. The Tribunes Alice Yin, A.D. Quig and Addison Wright contributed reporting. McCoppin and Sheridan reported from Chicago. The east Mesa airport that offers an alternative to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has changed its name. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is now simply Mesa Gateway Airport. The Mesa Gateway Airport Authority Board approved the name change on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Julia Wheatley, the Mesa Gateway Airport advisory board chair and Queen Creek mayor, said the name change "reflects the tremendous growth and economic vitality of the East Valley," according to a statement from the city of Mesa. Advertisement Advertisement "With the collaborative support of Mesa, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek and the Gila River Indian Community, Mesa Gateway Airport is positioned to continue serving as a vital transportation asset for our region's 1.5 million residents and as a secondary air travel hub to the metro region," Wheatley said. The airport's website, gatewayairport.com, and its social media accounts have been updated with the new name and logo. Why Mesa Gateway Airport changed its name Mesa Gateway Airport opened on the former Williams Air Force Base in 1994 and was first known as Williams Gateway Airport. The Air Force base and the airport's original name commemorated Charles Linton Williams, an Arizona native who was a first lieutenant in the Army Air Corps. He died in 1927 in a plane crash in Hawaii. Williams Gateway Airport was renamed Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in 2008 because the original name didn't say where it was located. Despite the name change, the airport continues to honor Williams' legacy as its terminal is named after him. Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the last renaming, Phoenix was a member of what is now called the Mesa Gateway Airport Authority, joining in 2006. Phoenix provided more than $25 million as a member of the authority to support the airport's growth. Phoenix ended its partnership with the airport in June 2024. The name change was considered after Phoenix's exit from the authority, Mesa Gateway Airport spokesman Ryan Smith said. The airport authority's current members are the cities of Mesa and Apache Junction, the towns of Queen Creek and Gilbert and the Gila River Indian Community. What does Mesa Gateway Airport's name change mean for travelers? One thing flyers will soon notice is a sign with the airport's new name. Advertisement Advertisement Smith and the airport's executive director, J. Brian O'Neill, told The Arizona Republic that a new monument sign for the airport is under construction at the intersection of Sossaman and Ray roads. The sign was planned before the airport's renaming and was changed to reflect the new name, Smith said. While the renaming won't change the guest experience at Mesa Gateway, it is expected to help raise the profile of Mesa's tourism sector. City officials said 4.4 million people visited Mesa in 2023, driving more than $748.6 million in direct visitor spending, and $84 million in state and local taxes. "As more travelers discover the unique experiences and tremendous value the East Valley offers, having an airport that authentically represents our identity while providing convenient access to a growing number of regional destinations sets the stage for continued tourism growth," said Marc Garcia, president and CEO of Visit Mesa. Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist whos covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republics consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter: @salerno_phx. Advertisement Advertisement Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport changes its name. Here's why SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) 2025 is only a few days old, but Community Blood Bank has already wrapped up its most important blood drive of the year. Heroes Behind The Badges is a friendly competition between the Sioux Falls Police Department and Fire Rescue thats been helping local hospitals save lives for nearly three decades. Coffee, brunch & Happy New Year Community Blood Bank is a joint effort between Avera and Sanford, and provides blood products to more than 40 area hospitals. The organization requires 550 units per week to meet the need, and when it comes to donations it doesnt get any bigger than the Heroes Behind The Badges blood drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event got its start in December 1996, with members of the police department and fire rescue giving blood to combat a shortage. The general public was also encouraged to donate and vote, with 217 pints collected. Doesnt have to be a member of the fire department or police department, anybody that comes in wed like to get people come in and then they can donate in the name of one of the departments, one of their favorite departments, which we know is the fire department, a member of the fire department said in December 1996. The fire department won the first showdown, while the police department claimed last years contest, which featured a record 1,308 donations. Without this event, wed be in serious trouble, Community Blood Bank Executive Director Ken Versteeg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over that 29 year period, over 21,000 units of blood and over 60,000 lives have been saved just because of that start, that first start between the police and fire department, Versteeg said. Its become the organizations most important event. While many schools and businesses are unable to host during the holidays, Versteeg says Heroes has helped uncover a long list of new partners. Its grown from one week over to two weeks and several buses and three donor rooms, and so now weve just really hit a peak, I should say, in the Heroes Behind The Badges event, Versteeg said. Each department will also make a donation to the charity of their choice, with Fire Rescue competing for Childrens Home Society and the Police Department giving to Special Olympics of South Dakota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The winners receive $2,000 to use to give to the charity of their choice. The not-so-fortunate losers receive $1,500 to give to their charity of choice, so all in all, its still a win-win, Versteeg said. Its such an important thing, everybody wins, granted we like to say we win the competition part of it, Sioux Falls Fire Rescue Division Chief Steve Fessler said. Steve Fessler is the division chief with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue and says the donations have extra meaning for every first responder. We see those people that are in accidents, we see people that need medical attention different things like that, so year in and year out its stuff that we see, we know how important it is and we want to make sure the community knows that, Fessler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously, as our city grows it impacts our blood supply greatly, City of Sioux Falls police officer Bridget Devlin said. Bridget Devlin is a police officer with the City of Sioux Falls. I mean obviously this is something we need to keep up on and it isnt something that we can just replace with other products so we really just need people to get out and its a really easy way to make an impact in our community, Devlin said. As Heroes Behind The Badges approaches three decades, Versteeg says its the donors and families of donors who make this an annual event. Youll see a lot of people that will sign up for six spots or eight spots back to back to back and they all come in as this is their holiday gift to the community and its a way to give back to our hospitals and our patients and then honor our police and fire departments, Versteeg said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And maybe even save a life. 1,218 donations were collected during this years event, with Sioux Falls Fire Rescue winning with 641 donations. If you didnt have an opportunity to donate during Heroes Behind the Badges, January is National Blood Donor Month. Click HERE to see the Community Blood Banks calendar of events. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. California and transportation officials met Monday near Bakersfield to announce that the high-speed rail project has officially entered a new phase that brings the start of passenger service one step closer to reality. State and transportation officials at the event also spoke of a partnership between the California High-Speed Rail Authority, Brightline West, and the High Desert Corridor to connect the Golden State and Nevada. During the ceremony, Gov. Gavin Newsom joined California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri, local leaders, and workers to break ground on the railhead, the first step to laying track in Central California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After hammering down symbolic railroad spikes to kick off construction of a railhead in Kern County, Newsom said, "Finally, we're at the point where we're going to start laying down this track in the next couple years. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and transportation officials met on Jan. 6, 2025, near Bakersfield to discuss using a high-speed rail system to connect the Golden State with Nevada. Where will the Callifornia high-speed rail lines connect? The California High-Speed Rail Authority project would connect Northern California through the Central Valley to Southern California. The second phase would connect Los Angeles to Rancho Cucamonga and San Diego. The 218-mile Brightline West high-speed rail project would connect Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga, with stops in Apple Valley and Hesperia in the Victor Valley. The High Desert Corridor high-speed rail project would connect the Victor Valley with Palmdale in the Antelope Valley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not mentioned was the Metrolink Train line, not high-speed rail, which would connect Brightline West in Rancho Cucamonga, and the High Desert Corridor project in Palmdale, allowing passengers to travel across Southern California. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and transportation officials met on Jan. 6, 2025, near Bakersfield to discuss using a high-speed rail system to connect the Golden State with Nevada. How much of the high-speed rail project has been completed in California? Mondays ceremony celebrated the substantial completion of Construction Package 4, the southernmost stretch of the initial operating line of high-speed rail. The new railyard between Wasco and Shafter, northwest of Bakersfield in Kern County, is the starting line of tracks and other operating systems for the states planned high-speed rail project. The railhead is near the southernmost end of a nearly 22-mile stretch of the planned high-speed route from the Tulare-Kern county line to Poplar Avenue near Shafter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is not just a transportation project. This is a transformation project. I've never seen or thought of this, fundamentally, as a project that's just about rail, Newsom told the audience. It's about economic development. It's about creating a sense of place. It's about up-zoning around the rail. It's about infrastructures, yes physical infrastructure, but also building that human capital and that human infrastructure as a big part of it. Newsom thanked President Joe Biden for helping to procure more than $6 billion in federal funds for the California High-Speed Rail. California Gov. Gavin Newsom and transportation officials met on Jan. 6, 2025, near Bakersfield to discuss using a high-speed rail system to connect the Golden State with Nevada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Construction Package 4 includes 11 civil structures, including overpasses, underpasses, and viaducts built to take high-speed trains over roadways, waterways, and existing rail lines. All major civil works have been completed, and the segment is largely ready to lay track, state officials said. Of the more than 14,500 jobs created since the start of the high-speed rail project, work in package 4 generated more than 3,200 jobs. Brightline West will connect Los Angeles to Las Vegas Once again, 2025 kicked off with hopes that Brightline West would begin constructing its high-speed rail system between Las Vegas and Southern California. Brightline West continues to focus on completing the rail system by the start of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once completed, passengers can travel between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga in about 2 hours, with the train reaching speeds of up to 200 mph. In April 2024, dignitaries across the U.S. and the High Desert traveled to Las Vegas to attend Bright Wests groundbreaking ceremony. Brightline West officials and guests in April 2024, hammered yellow-colored rail spikes as part of a groundbreaking celebration for the nation's first high-speed rail system which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. Since then, Brightline West has continued to conduct geotechnical field work and surveying in both states to prepare for construction. In September 2024, the Federal Railroad Administration inked an agreement that sends $3 billion to the Nevada Department of Transportation for Brightline Wests planned $12 billion high-speed rail project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brightline CEO Michael Reininger in a press release called the signing a historic commitment that will jumpstart the high-speed rail industry in America, creating thousands of jobs all across the country. High Desert Corridor High-Speed Rail Project In July 2024, High Desert representatives supported a new high-speed rail project connecting Palmdale and the Victor Valley. Victorville Mayor Elizabeth Becerra, who also serves as a High Desert Corridor Joint Powers Agency Board Member, was at the Metrolink Palmdale Transportation Center. Becerra, along with her fellow board members, signed "landmark agreements" with union labor representatives. The agreements are to construct, operate, and maintain the future multimillion-dollar High Desert Corridor High Speed Rail Project, Becerra said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agreements consist of a community workforce agreement and a memorandum of understanding that codify the projects use of highly skilled union labor, the agency stated. The 54-mile High Desert Corridor from Palmdale to the Victor Valley will connect the nations two major bullet train projects now underwayCalifornia High-Speed Rail in the Central Valley and Brightline West between Las Vegas and Southern California. Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: High-speed rail 2025: A look at connecting California with Las Vegas Is it possible to have too much winter weather? Alyeska Ski Resort Southeast of Anchorage, Alaska was forced to suspend operations Monday after a power outage. Intense winds and extreme weather led to the resort ceasing all operations for the day. The National Weather Service reported winds that reached 100 mph on the Turnagain Arm. We are offering lift credits for another day at our ticket offices for all lift tickets purchased today, the resort said on its Instagram page. This decision to close is never made lightly, but the importance of the safety for our guests and staff is paramount. It was also a day scheduled to be military Monday. That, of course, had to be postponed as well, despite at least one Instagram poster urging the Alaskan weather to support the troops. The power outage not only impacted lift operations, but the Nordic Spa and Hotel Alyeska pool, too, digital and PR marketing manager Abbey Brau told local news outlet KTUU. Winds of more than 50 miles per hour were reported in the area. The day started with the northernmost lift and tram closed as a result of those high winds. A power outage map showed that there were more than 500 customers without power after about 1 p.m. on Monday. Thats more than 25% of all of the customers in the town, KTUU reported. Not all is lost, though. All eight of Alyeska's chairlifts are scheduled to open on Tuesday. There are 36 of 76 trails open, 31 of which are groomed. Ski patrol is evaluating Chillkoot Knoll for a possible opening, and the Glacier Bowl Express is scheduled to close at 3:45 p.m. After closing for the storm yesterday, our teams are hard at work preparing the mountain for whats looking to be an epic pow day up top! the snow report said. All lifts are scheduled to be operating todayStay tuned for more updates. That heavy snow only reached the top of the mountain. A foot of snow has fallen at the top of GBX in the last 12 hours, but none of that has managed to find the middle of the mountain or the base. Related: Another North Carolina Ski Area Gets a New Chairlift Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy said Monday that he will be stepping down from his role effective Jan. 17. Levy tendered his resignation to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on Monday afternoon, he said in a statement Monday night. Levy became the Acting U.S. Attorney in Massachusetts on May 19, 2023. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary B. Murrane, who has been with the Department of Justice for 16 years, will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney in Massachusetts following Levys departure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Levy, who was twice nominated by President Joe Biden for the permanent role as U.S. Attorney, was appointed U.S. Attorney by Attorney General Garland in November 2024. As U.S. Attorney, Levy served on two subcommittees of the Attorney Generals Advisory Committee White Collar Crime, and Terrorism & National Security and was a member of the Human Trafficking Work Group. Levy also served as the Northeastern U.S. representative for the U.S. Attorney community on the Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee. Serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts has truly been the highlight of my career, Levy said in a statement. Every day over the past three years, I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and extraordinary skill of the federal prosecutors, support staff, and law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, keep our communities safe and protect civil rights. U.S. Attorney District of Massachusetts Joshua Levy takes questions from reporters during a news conference, Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, at the federal courthouse, in Boston. (AP Photo/Steven Senne) My core touchstones as the leader of this office have been to serve with the highest integrity and a commitment to pursue justice in every case by following the facts and the law, without fear or favor, Levy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have brought some incredibly important cases these last three years that have improved the lives of the people of Massachusetts, Levy said. As I reflect on my tenure, I am equally proud of the thoughtful, deliberative process engaged in by our team whenever making the grave decision about whether to bring federal charges to ensure it is consistent with the principles of federal prosecution. Under Levys leadership, the office brought several high impact cases including charges against a former Stoughton Police officer in the death of Sandra Birchmore; the $650 million resolution of criminal and civil charges against McKinsey & Company for their illegal conduct in support of Purdue Pharmas marketing of opioids; and charges against two men for their alleged involvement in a scheme to procure sensitive drone technology to Iran, which resulted in the deaths of three U.S. soldiers. Under Levys tenure, Jack Teixeira was sentenced to 15 years in prison for leaking highly classified documents, and seven former employees of eBay were sentenced for cyberstalking a Massachusetts couple. Levy oversaw one of his offices more high-profile cases in November 2023, when charges were lodged against three people in connection with a high-end sex ring that catered to wealthy and prominent clients in Watertown, Cambridge, and in Virginia, where buyers paid up to $600 per hour for a wide array of advertised sex acts. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy speaks on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023. Elected officials, doctors, lawyers, professors, accountants, and military officers were reportedly among a group of high-end clients who paid for the illegal sex services at various locations in Massachusetts and in Virginia. Lawyers for the alleged clients at the center of the sex ring have pushed to keep court hearings private. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Levy also oversaw the $574 million-dollar criminal and civil enforcement action against Raytheon for overcharging government contracts. During his tenure, in 2024 alone, the office successfully recovered more than $1 billion in False Claims Act recoveries, Levy said. One of the most important series of prosecutions in the last three years were brought by the newly created Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Unit, Levy said. This dedicated team of lawyers, support staff and victim witness advocates has secured convictions and lengthy sentences against 20 individuals since the unit was formed in 2022, including numerous convictions of people who trafficked minors or used force, fraud or coercion to engage in trafficking, the outgoing Acting U.S. Attorneys statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The offices other notable achievements under his leadership as U.S. Attorney included impact prosecutions in the areas of public corruption, child exploitation, hate crimes, police accountability, fentanyl trafficking and gun violence, Levy said. Mondays announcement marks the end of Levys second tenure with the Department of Justice. In 1997, Levy served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Criminal Divisions Economic Crimes Unit. He left the Department of Justice in 2004 to become a partner at Ropes & Gray, where he served as co-chair of the firms 325-lawyer Litigation and Enforcement practice, co-managing partner of Ropes & Grays Boston office and co-chair of the firms Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, Levy was inducted into the American College of Trial Lawyers in recognition of his courtroom advocacy. Immediately prior to becoming the Acting U.S. Attorney, Levy served as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney from January 2022 through May 2023. 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 For the first time in the history of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a Ukrainian-operated jet shot down six Russian cruise missiles during a single mission in December, including two with the aircraft cannon, the Air Force claimed on Jan. 7. The interception reportedly took place during a mass Russian aerial strike on the morning of Dec. 13, 2024, which saw Russia deploy almost 200 drones and 94 missiles. "For the first time in the history of the Fighting Falcon, an F-16 fighter jet destroyed six Russian cruise missiles in one combat mission," the Air Force Command said on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has received a number of U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets from the Netherlands and Denmark, deploying them multiple times in air defense roles during Russian mass strikes on cities and infrastructure. "They say that even Americans couldn't believe you did it," Air Force Command spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said in an interview with the pilot, whose identity was not revealed. The aviator said that he approached a group of cruise missiles and, despite their electronic warfare countermeasures, managed to lock on to targets. The F-16 reportedly shot down one pair of Russian projectiles with medium-range missiles and then another pair with short-range missiles. Ukrainian F-16s are equipped with four air-to-air medium-range and short-range missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without missiles and low on fuel, the pilot was then recalled from the area but spotted another missile heading toward Kyiv. He moved to intercept it and opened fire from his aircraft cannon against the projectile, which was flying over 650 kilometers per hour, a difficult and risky maneuver, the Air Force said. "A few bursts from the cannon and an explosion... then another one! 'A secondary detonation,' I thought, but, as it turned out, there were two missiles," the pilot said, adding he did everything as taught by U.S. instructors. According to the Air Force Command, Ukrainian pilots have learned how to shoot down missiles with aircraft cannons in simulators in the U.S. but have never attempted it during actual combat before. The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The F-16 Fighting Falcon entered into service in late 1978, and its various versions have been used by over two dozen countries, including the U.S. and its European allies. More than 4,600 F-16s have been built, and the platform has been deployed in multiple conflicts worldwide. Read also: Ukraine gave a glimpse of its first F-16s what can it tell us? Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. More than 60 years ago, three Black nurses took a stand against segregation at Hamptons Dixie Hospital, igniting a legal battle to advance civil rights. On Saturday, Hampton honored the women Mildred Smith, Patricia Taylor McKenzie and Agnes Stokes Chisman with a city heritage marker telling their story. The ceremony was at the Hunter B. Andrews Pre K-8 School, the same site as the former Dixie Hospital. The marker tells the story of how, on Aug. 8, 1963, the three women protested segregated staff areas at the hospital by sitting in the spacious whites-only cafeteria. The small classroom designated for non-white employees was described on the marker as a cramped basement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their act of courage led to them being fired on the second day of their sit-in. However, the women filed a discrimination lawsuit against the hospital, which years later became Sentara Hampton General. The hospital ended its cafeteria segregation policy shortly after firing the three women but still refused to rehire them. A federal judge initially dismissed their suit in 1964, ruling that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 could not be retroactively applied to the nurses protest in 1963. But in 1966, the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that their constitutional rights had been violated and ordered the hospital to reinstate the nurses and award them full back pay. The action of the Dixie Three was part of a larger Civil Rights movement that placed the nursing profession among the efforts that lead to the end of Jim Crow laws that legalized segregation in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Maryland, the marker states. Smith died in 2013, but McKenzie and Chisman attended Saturdays ceremony. Family members spoke on behalf of them. Robert Smith, son of Mildred Smith, described his mother and the other two nurses as courageous and noted how, in 1963, they said, Enough is enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They put their faith in God and decided to face head on the giants of racism and bigotry and a system that was designed for them to fail, Robert Smith said. But what was meant to eliminate them, God used to elevate them. Deirdre Harvey, daughter of Patricia Taylor McKenzie, described the ceremony as a historic moment and said her mom was excited to have her story told. She commended her mother for taking a stand, knowing there would be consequences for her actions. I remember asking my mom how she felt doing that, and she was like, You know, we had to do it. Not just for them, but for the future generations and students at the hospital, Harvey said. Denetra Hampton, who wrote and produced a documentary about the nurses called The Dixie 3: A Story on Civil Rights in Nursing, said the marker is an illustration of progress that has been made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its an elementary school now, and now every kid that comes into this school will know about the Dixie Three, Hampton said. Newly elected Mayor Jimmy Gray thanked Hampton and said her documentary is bringing attention to a story that was largely not talked about for several decades. A lot of people, when they think about historical markers, they assume they commemorate a president or a Civil Rights site or something like that, something big or something famous, Gray said. But not all history is written in bold strokes. Often, history is made quietly, gradually and by ordinary men and women whose names remain unknown, except for those in their hometowns, and thats why were here today. Gray said the three nurses made a profound statement by simply sitting down to eat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, you wont find the Dixie Three in all the history books at this time, but they did make history. And because all across the South at that time, there were small acts of defiance, and in small acts of defiance, they made a difference, Gray said. But no single act could change our nation, but their collective weight changed the whole world. Hampton has more than 140 historical markers that document city history. Some are state historical markers while others, like the one unveiled Saturday, are backed by the city government and known as Hampton Heritage Markers. To view an interactive map of these markers, visit visithampton.com/attraction/historic-markers-in-hampton. Josh Janney, joshua.janney@virginiamedia.com GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) A Kent City man is headed to prison for sexually assaulting a girl repeatedly over several years. Christopher Haggerty, 31, was sentenced Monday to between 25 and 60 years in prison. A Kent County jury in November found Haggerty guilty of multiple crimes, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct and HIV-knowingly engaging in intercourse with an uninformed partner. The victim previously investigators she was sexually assaulted by Haggerty starting when she was 5 or 6 years old. She went on to testify that he told her she would go to hell if she told anyone what happened. Investigators also learned that Haggerty tested positive for HIV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was arrested in January of last year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (NEXSTAR) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are currently monitoring reports of increasing cases of human metapneumovirus in Chinas northern provinces, even though rates of the infection in the U.S. remain near typical pre-pandemic levels, the agency said. 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 told Nexstar in an emailed statement on Monday. These reports are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S., the spokesperson added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cases of little-known respiratory virus HMPV surged this spring The CDCs actions come in response to Chinas government-run media confirming that positivity rates of HMPV are rising in children under the age of 14, despite respiratory illnesses being down overall since last year. Human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is not a novel respiratory virus, having first been discovered in 2001 (though possibly present for several decades prior). HMPV is also relatively common, infecting most of the population before they reach the age of 5, according to Dr. Eileen Schneider, an epidemiologist with the CDC. HMPV usually circulates during flu season (or slightly later), when it causes both upper and lower respiratory infections in patients. Symptoms are similar to the common cold, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and congestion, according to the CDC. For this reason, it is sometimes not detected or diagnosed as HMPV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like other respiratory infections, HMPV can be especially severe for the elderly, those with compromised immune systems and children under 5. Schneider, in 2016, cited research that indicated HMPV was associated with approximately 20,000 annual hospitalizations among U.S. children. Infections can also lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, Schneider noted. People with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or emphysema are also at risk of more severe symptoms, the American Lung Association warns. Current data from the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS), which compiles case reports from labs around the U.S., currently indicates that 1.94% of submitted diagnostic PCR tests for HMPV were positive in the week ending on Dec. 28. This marks a very slight upward trend over recent months, but nothing concerning. For comparison, rates of positive HMPV tests were more than four times higher (peaking at 8.11%) in the spring of 2024, and more than five times higher (peaking at 10.99%) in the spring of 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since there are currently no vaccines or treatment therapies for HMPV, prevention and preventing the spread of HMPV is especially important. The public is advised to wash hands often and avoid coming into contact with those infected with HMPV, if possible. Patients who have HMPV are also urged to refrain from coughing or sneezing openly, sharing utensils, or leaving home when sick, among other measures. Less than 1 in 1,000 adolescents received gender-affirming medications: Study China, meanwhile, also announced that its National Disease Control and Prevention Administration will be launching a new system to verify and monitor any respiratory diseases of unknown origin, Reuters reported. The program was launched, in part, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the outlet. Health officials with the CDC will continue to monitor HMPV activity in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We can expect that existing surveillance systems will rapidly detect any increase in HMPV cases in the U.S., a CDC spokesperson said. CDC will continue to monitor and provide important updates to the public. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHIPPEWA FALLS A Holcombe man accused of repeated sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl over a two-year span entered a no contest plea Monday. Dayton F. Nyhus, 38, 26310 300th St., entered the pleas in Chippewa County Court to two counts of repeated sexual assault of a child. He lived in New Auburn at the time of his arrest. He appeared in court with his attorney, Terry Nussberger. Three charges of bail jumping were read-in and dismissed. Mondays hearing was originally slated for both a plea and sentencing, but Nussberger requested the sentencing be delayed. Each conviction carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and 20 years of extended supervision, said Chippewa County District Attorney Wade Newell. However, as part of a plea agreement, a mandatory minimum of 25 years in prison was waived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge James Isaacson ordered a pre-sentence investigation be conducted, and he set sentencing for April 21. A PSI allows both sides to obtain a report that recommends the length of incarceration. Isaacson also revoked Nyhus bond, and Nyhus was taken into custody at the conclusion of the hearing. I think you are an absolute flight risk, Isaacson said to Nyhus. According to the criminal complaint, Nyhus repeatedly sexually assaulted the girl between October 2021 and October 2023. The girl told a Chippewa County investigator about the assaults in December 2023; she was 10 at the time of the interview. The alleged assaults happened at a home in New Auburn, but also in a vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When interviewed by authorities, Nyhus initially denied the sexual contact, but later admitted to having intercourse with the girl, with the last assault taking place in October 2023. When Nyhus was initially arrested in January 2024, he was held on a $25,000 cash bond. That was reduced to $15,000 in March, which he posted. While he was on release prior to Mondays hearing, Nyhus was ordered to not have any contact with the victim or the victims residence, or any contact with juveniles under the age of 16. The first bail jumping charge was because Nyhus reportedly left a voicemail for a woman who he wasnt supposed to have any contact with, court records show. He was later charged with two more counts of bail jumping after he was accused of residing at a home in June where two juvenile boys, ages 8 and 9, are living. Nyhus told police he thought he could be there as long as he was supervised, the criminal complaint states. Nyhus had no prior criminal record in Wisconsin, online court records show. AUSTIN (KXAN) In northwest Austin, firefighters battled a brush fire near a homeless encampment early Monday morning. It was near the North U.S. Hwy. 183 service road near the Galleria Oaks Shopping Center. According to the Austin Fire Department, a dumpster fire spread to nearby fencing and trees. Because of this, it has neighbors in one south Austin neighborhood worried another potential fire could start and spread to their homes with more freezing weather on the way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of those homes are right across from a growing homeless camp off William Cannon Drive and Bluff Springs Road. Its a camp that neighbors said keeps attracting more people experiencing homelessness. I dont really have much of a clue who lives here, Mori Leva said while walking along the street in her neighborhood. I just know its multiple people. Mori Leva walks through neighborhood with Reporter Jala Washington. (KXAN photos/Tim Holcomb) According to Leva, she and her family have lived on the block close to the camp off William Cannon Drive and Bluff Springs Road for over 20 years. She told KXAN people from the camp make their way into the neighborhood, including right across the street from where they live. Its squatters, yes, Leva said. Ring security video from Levas family captured chaos, including a massive fire in the front yard of the home across the street from hers. The fire departments come here multiple times, Leva said. AFD was just called out to this same camp close to Levas home over the weekend. We know oftentimes when people are living unsheltered, homeless in encampments, they are doing things like setting fires to try to stay warm, said David Gray, the city of Austins homeless strategy officer. Gray told KXAN thats why the city activated cold shelters this week with more freezing weather on the way, to try to prevent fires. We have street outreach staff who go out to various encampments to talk about fire safety and give out fire extinguishers, Gray said. We just want neighbors to know that were aware of the concerns. We hear you. Gray said the camp in south Austin is on private property, which makes it more difficult for city staff to enforce rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve been working with our colleagues in the citys code enforcement department to engage with the property owner around the encampment on that private property, and were going to continue to work the process prescribed in state law until were able to get to a point in that process where the city can take more direct enforcement action, Gray said. Leva said shes worried about her familys safety, and those who are living on the streets. Its just difficult, she 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 KXAN Austin. MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) A Honduran man was sentenced last month after committing arson and illegally reentering the United States, according to the United States Department of Justice. USA Health neonatologist 1 of 5 to receive prestigious national award A USDOJ news release said Robertsdale police arrested Marlon Pineda-Enamorado on Jan. 1, 2023, for first-degree arson. Marlon Pineda-Enamorado. (Baldwin County Sheriffs Office) According to the Department of Justice, the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations of Mobile was notified of Pinedas arrest. ICE officers investigated and learned Pineda had been removed from the U.S. before that date twice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USDOJ officials said ICE verified Pineda did not have any lawful authority to be voluntarily present in the U.S. when he was arrested for arson. Pineda was convicted of the arson charge and sentenced on Nov. 11, 2024, to 20 years in prison by the Baldwin County Circuit Court. He was sentenced on Dec. 5, 2024, for being unlawfully in the United States after having been previously removed, according to the USDOJ. When Pineda is released from prison, he will be taken to a duly authorized immigration official for deportation proceedings. Mobile police seek man who allegedly assaulted Shoe Station employee, stole phone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama announced the sentencing. The investigation included ICE and the Robertsdale Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Kopf prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. With less than a month left now in Joe Bidens presidency, it might seem pointless to discuss yet again the presidents cognitive fitness for office. But there are two reasons that discussion shouldnt yet be over: One, there are serious questions right now about who is actually making decisions in the White House questions driven home by a devastating Wall Street Journal report last month indicating that Bidens age-related cognitive decline started much earlier and has been much deeper than has ever been acknowledged by the administration. And, two, that continued lack of acknowledgment, even now, by White House insiders and top Democrats is adding to the already-incalculable damage the party has done to its credibility with the American public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Democrats are to have any chance of regaining the majority in at least one chamber of Congress in 2026 to put the brakes on the dangerous president who will be sworn in next month, that trust must be restored. That must start with the frank admission that Biden and his circle have long been lying to the American people about the critical issue of his cognitive fitness. This editorial page suggested early on that Biden should have eschewed any attempt at reelection because of concerns about his age. For his legacy, his party and his country, we wrote in April 2023, Biden should strongly consider the historic step of announcing that he will retire after his current term. In that and subsequent editorials, we warned that by seeking a second term amid increasingly obvious signs of cognitive decline, Biden risked ushering in a second Donald Trump administration. And now here we sit, weeks away from that catastrophic outcome. Trump might have won last month in any case, but he was surely helped by Bidens decision to stay in the race until his disastrous debate performance in June forced him out and left Democrats scrambling to build an 11th-hour campaign under a new standard bearer. With a normal primary and more time, Vice President Kamala Harris or some other Democrat might have fared better on Nov. 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the issues Harris never could put to rest was the now-obvious fact that she, along with the rest of the administration, had hidden Bidens declining condition from the public. Thats hardly news to anyone anymore, but the Journals report adds previously unknown scope and detail to the issue. Based on scores of interviews with those around the president, including sitting congressional Democrats, it charts how Bidens team walled him off from even top lawmakers and cabinet members from the earliest months of his presidency. To adapt the White House around the needs of a diminished leader, they told visitors to keep meetings focused, reports the Journal. Interactions with senior Democratic lawmakers and some cabinet members were infrequent or grew less frequent. Some legislative leaders had a hard time getting the presidents ear at key moments, including ahead of the U.S.s disastrous pullout from Afghanistan. That botched withdrawal, which cost more than a dozen American lives, came after the then-chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Adam Smith, D-Washington, tried to warn the White House about defects in its plan. Though Smith was a key congressional figure from Bidens own party, with deep knowledge on the region, he couldnt get Biden on the phone, the Journal reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The piece outlines numerous other instances in which those who would normally have and need presidential access were prevented from directly communicating with Biden. As early as the spring of 2021, it reported, planned meetings were being routinely rescheduled around what one insider called Bidens good days and bad days. Whats most striking about the report is its multiple, consistent, patently implausible denials by current Biden staffers that he has mentally declined and that they are shielding his condition from public (and even private) view. We get it. Having stuck with their official line for this long, acknowledging the coverup now would be an embarrassing turn indeed. But continuing to foist this obvious lie on a public that doesnt remotely buy it further damages whats left of Bidens legacy. A little last-minute honesty from Biden on his way into the history books and perhaps an apology as well might salvage some of that legacy. It might also help his damaged party move past this issue to face the far more dire national threat that will soon occupy the White House. HONG KONG (Reuters) - Housing is famously cramped in the Asian financial hub of Hong Kong, thanks to sky-high property prices, but a single toilet and kitchen shared by four families would make for a challenging home situation anywhere. "It's so small here; it's really inconvenient to live in," said retired 60-year-old Xiao Bo, as she sat on her bed, eating home-made dumplings off a folding table in a tiny space adorned with pink wallpaper and a rack of colourful tote bags. Single and opting to give only her first name, she said she had nothing but "painful" memories of the partitioned, cluttered walk-up where she has lived for three years, but could not afford a better flat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (For photoessay, please click on ) More than 200,000 people in Hong Kong live in sub-divided flats like hers, often cloaked in a musty odour and plagued by bedbugs during sweltering summers. The former British colony, ranked as the world's most unaffordable city for a 14th consecutive year by survey company Demographia, has one of the world's highest rates of inequality. In October, Hong Kong vowed to adopt new laws setting minimum space and safety norms for sub-divided flats, where each resident lives in an area of about 65 sq ft (6 sq m) on average, or half the size of the parking space for a sedan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We just want to regulate ... so the market will be providing flats of what we think will be a reasonable and liveable standard," its leader, John Lee, said at the time. Hong Kong aims to eliminate subdivided flats by 2049, a target set in 2021 by China's top official overseeing the city. Beijing sees the housing woes as a serious social problem that helped fuel mass anti-government protests in 2019. Authorities plan to boost the supply of public housing to shorten waiting times from as much as 5-1/2 years now, saying they have identified more than enough land to build 308,000 public housing units in the next decade. Hong Kong's housing problem is the top agenda item for the government, the Housing Bureau said in a written response to Reuters, and it is "determined to eradicate sub-standard sub-divided units". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since July 2022, about 49,000 applicants have been housed in public rental housing, and around 18,400 units of transitional housing have been made available for immediate and short-term accommodation, the Bureau said. TINY HOMES Still, Hong Kong's roughly 110,000 sub-divided flats have become notorious for high rents, with a median floor rate of HK$50 ($6.43) a square foot, a survey by non-government body the Society for Community Organization (SoCO) showed in 2022. For so-called "coffin" homes, each roughly the size of a single bed, the rate is even higher, at HK$140, exceeding a rate of about HK$35 for private homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All I hope for is to quickly get into public housing," said Wong Chi-kong, 76, who pays HK$2,900 ($370) for a space smaller than 50 sq ft (5 sq m). His toilet sits right beside his bed and under the shower head. "That's all I ask for. Amen," added Wong, who stores all his belongings on the other side of the bed to keep them from getting splashed whenever he takes a shower. Wong, who uses a walking stick to get around while contending with deteriorating eyesight, spends most of his summer afternoons in a public library to escape the scorching heat trapped in his home. Yet some may consider Xiao Bo and Wong to be among the more fortunate, as tens of thousands of so-called "coffin" homes fall outside the scope of the new laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These windowless spaces are still more cramped, but just big enough, at 15 sq ft (1.4 sq m) to 18 sq ft (1.7 sq m), for people to sleep in and store a few personal items. But lack of ventilation forces them to leave open the small sliding doors to their homes, denying them any vestiges of privacy. They also share washrooms with up to 20 others. "Because the beds are wooden, there are a lot of bedbugs here," said 80-year-old Leung Kwong Kuen, adding, "Insecticide is useless," in eradicating them. Leung used to manage a factory in mainland China before the Asian financial crisis of the 1990s, but now, estranged from his wife and two grown-up children, lives in a "coffin" home in Hong Kong, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I believe in Buddhism; letting go, the past is the past," he said. "The most important thing is I can still manage to have two meals and a place to sleep for now." The sub-divided flats and "coffin" homes are usually located in outdated residential buildings in old business areas, allowing affordable access to workplaces and schools. "SHAME OF HONG KONG" About 1.4 million of Hong Kong's population of about 7.5 million live in poverty, with the number of poor households rising to 619,000 in the first quarter of 2024, to account for about 22.7% of the total, says non-profit organisation Oxfam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SoCO called for the new regulations to extend to "coffin" homes. "This kind of bed homes is the shame of Hong Kong," said its deputy director, Sze Lai-shan. The Housing Bureau said the Home Affairs Department takes strict enforcement actions against unlicensed bedspace apartments. Sum, a 72-year-old bachelor, has lived in a "coffin" home for three years, paying HK$2,500 in monthly rent. A Chinese New Year poster on the door to his home reads "Peace and safety wherever you go". Personal items, such as a television on the platform where he sleeps, take up half of Sum's living space. He was formerly homeless and slept under a street flyover for a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The most important thing is having a roof over my head, not worrying about getting sunburnt or rained on," said Sum, who gave only his last name. Chan, 45, who pays rent of HK$2,100 a month for his 2 sq m (22 sq ft) home, said he hoped public housing would finally enable him to escape the bedbugs. "I applied in 2005," he said, providing only one name. "I have been waiting for 19 years." ($1=7.7765 Hong Kong dollars) (Reporting by Tyrone Siu and Clare Jim; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree and Clarence Fernandez) 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. This month, communities across Michigan will gather to honor the legacy of the late civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 20. Though assassinated at 39 years old while in Memphis, Tennessee, to support a strike by sanitation workers, King's advocacy for justice and equality live on across the nation through the federal holiday and beyond. Here's what to know. Who was Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent Black civil rights activist and Baptist minister from Atlanta. He famously gave his "I Have a Dream" speech to a crowd of more than 250,000 during a civil rights march in Washington, D.C., in 1963, according to NPR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was married to Coretta Scott King and had four children. King was assassinated in 1968 at age 39 in Memphis, Tennessee, by James Earl Ray, PBS said. More: Michigan officials remember Jimmy Carter's 'tireless work' as a humanitarian What is MLK Jr. Day? Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the U.S. It is observed annually on the third Monday in January. This year, the holiday also falls on inauguration day for Donald Trump. What are the origins of the federal holiday? Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday on Nov. 2, 1983, when President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into law, according to the National Museum of African American History & Culture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, efforts to establish a federal holiday in honor of King began shortly after his assassination in 1968, with civil rights activists pushing for 15 years for the holiday, according to the museum. Once MLK Jr. Day took effect in 1983, it would be another 17 years before all 50 states recognized the federal holiday. More: Biden awards Medal of Freedom to Magic Johnson, George Romney Where can you observe MLK Jr. Day in Michigan? Communities across the state will observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day this month. Here are some upcoming events to mark the federal holiday in Michigan: Community Celebration in Flint: The Flint Public Library will host the annual Community Celebration for MLK Jr. Day from 2-4 p.m. Jan. 18. MLK Day 25th annual Corporate Breakfast in Grand Rapids: The Urban League of West Michigan will host the 25th annual MLK Day Corporate Breakfast Jan. 20 at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. The event will begin with networking at 7 a.m., with the breakfast starting at 7:30 a.m. 40th annual Day of Celebration in Lansing: The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan will host the 40th annual Day of Celebration 11 a.m. Jan. 20 at the Lansing Center. Day of Service in Marquette: Northern Michigan University in Marquette's Volunteer Center will host a Day of Service bracelet making activity for MLK Jr. Day from 2-3 p.m. on Jan. 20. A Day of Service & Song in Traverse City: Building Bridges with Music will host a Day of Service & Song from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Alluvion in Traverse City. The event will feature all day art and music installations, a morning song, dance and mindfulness activity followed by free community lunch, an arts and crafts activity, a human rights poetry activity and an evening concert at the City Opera House. Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan to mark MLK Jr. Day 2025 with observances Sometimes, the mission is a staircase. A coalition of historic preservationists, parks advocates and private and public partners have banded together to launch an unusual fundraising campaign. The goal is to someday reopen St. Pauls embattled Walnut Street stairway. The 170-step outdoor stairway connects historic Summit Avenue by the James J. Hill House the former home of the 19th century railroad magnate to Irvine Avenue below, but the stairs were officially taken offline in October 2020 after being deemed unsafe by the city following the collapse of a sizable section of a south brick retaining wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, nonprofit historic preservation consultants Rethos, the St. Paul Parks Conservancy, the West Seventh/Fort Road Federation and officials with St. Paul Public Works jointly announced the start of a multi-year fundraising and community history campaign to get the stairway reopened. The partners plan to convene a small advisory committee by next spring. The committee will focus on collecting community stories and history related to the steps, while identifying ways to integrate the stairway into the citys broader network of parks and public spaces, reads an announcement from the campaign. Part of the crumbling brick retaining wall bordering a large residential property owned by the Nicholson family first collapsed in 2004, triggering a legal dispute between the city and the family over who would cover repair costs. The city issued the Nicholsons a citation in 2008 and the wall was fixed, but the question of who would pay for ongoing upkeep remained unresolved. In 2013, Richard and Nancy Nicholson agreed to pay the city $82,000 toward $183,000 in maintenance costs, on the condition that the city maintain the public stairway and retain ownership of part of the brick wall. Around October 2020, during the first year of the pandemic, a section of the south brick wall collapsed, and the steps have been offline ever since. Storytelling sessions and an advisory committee Better days could be ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Led by Rethos as fiscal sponsor, lead fundraiser and project facilitator, project partners announced Tuesday they plan to host storytelling sessions and work with local historians and archives to uncover the stairways rich history and its connections to surrounding landmarks while exploring potential integration with nearby parks and recreational spaces. The St. Paul Parks Conservancy will help identify and secure grants. Heidi Swank, executive director of Rethos, said some of St. Pauls earliest laborers worked on the large houses along Summit Avenue and likely used the steps to quite literally descend toward their home neighborhoods, by whats now Interstate 35E. Some of those stories may yet be salvageable. We cant say for sure, but thats what we want to learn. Everybody knows the stories at the top of the stairs, but we think theres some really interesting stories at the bottom of the stairs, Swank said. Historically, highways have not always been built with the most foresight, but looking at the impact of the way the highway was put through there is important. Related Articles Capturing that history will be key toward applying for state and private preservation grants, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Swank said a full restoration of the Walnut Street staircase would likely cost at least $9 million, putting it out of reach of neighborhood fundraising efforts. Theres some other options the city has laid out, she said. I get that people want to see the stairs exactly as they were first laid out, but I want to be realistic. To put in a metal staircase, and arrest the decay below it is like $6 million, and that estimate was from a couple years ago. Community members interested in learning more about the project or applying to join the advisory committee can visit the Rethos website at Rethos.org. Rep. Brian Mast (R-Fla.), the new chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is planning to move legislation this week to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last year. A GOP congressional aide said the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act could get a vote on the House floor as soon as Thursday. The aide said the bill has support spanning the entire GOP conference and that it was also bipartisan, with a similar measure getting the support of around 40 Democrats last year. Last years bill did not pass Congress because then-Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) did not move on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a new Congress, were bringing it up early to send a strong message that the America Last foreign policy of the Biden era is over, the congressional aide said. This is just an opening act. The Hill reached out to Speaker Mike Johnsons (R-La.) office for comment on whether the bill would move this week, and to the office of Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) for comment on whether the Senate plans to pick up the legislation. The bill, which would take effect 60 days after enactment, would sanction any individual working to investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute American citizens or an official from an allied U.S. country, including Israel. The legislation covers the 32-member Western security alliance NATO and the 19 major non-NATO countries, which include Israel, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, South Korea, the Philippines and Egypt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would also rescind any funds the U.S. has designated for the ICC and prohibit any future money for the court. Mast said in a statement that the legislation sends a clear message to the International Criminal Court. We may not recognize you, but you sure as hell will recognize what happens when you target America or its allies, said Mast. The ICCs attempt to obstruct Israels right to defend itself has only prolonged the war and prevented the release of American hostages by boosting Hamas morale. The bill was introduced by Mast and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), and it has 17 other Republican co-sponsors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roy said the ICC is an illegitimate body that has no business interfering with our sovereignty or that of our allies. Now it is engaged in a shameful lawfare campaign against Prime Minister Netanyahu for doing his duty to protect his fellow citizens from Hamas in the wake of the barbaric October 7th attacks, Roy said in a statement. Roy said the bill was not only about Israel but also about protecting American troops from political attacks from the ICC as President-elect Trump prepares to take office on Jan. 20. While I have full confidence that President Trump will stand for Israel with the strength and moral clarity that Biden has sorely lacked, this bill will ensure that no future administration after him will be able to give the ICC a free pass to attack our allies like this, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans will hold the House, Senate and White House by the end of the month. Still, many Democrats are likely to object to the measure, especially more progressive lawmakers who have raised concerns about Israels devastating war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza, where more than 46,000 people have died. The war began when Hamas invaded Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages, about 100 of whom are still in Gaza. The ICC, an independent court formed in 2002, issued arrest warrants in November after prosecutors sought the warrants last spring. The warrants are for Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Mohammed Deif, a key Hamas commander who Israel has claimed to have killed. Both the U.S. and Israel do not recognize the ICC, but the state of Palestine does, which the court says gives it jurisdiction. The Biden administration, Republicans and many Democrats have argued the ICC has no jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Washington has generally supported the ICC arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin related to his deporting children for the war in Ukraine. The arrest warrants complicate travel for Netanyahu, who cannot go to a country that is a member of the ICC without risk of 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 The Hill. The House voted at 1 p.m. Tuesday on the Laken Riley Act, passing the bill as its first piece of legislation of the 119th Congress on a vote of 264 to 159. Forty-eight Democrats voted in favor of the bill. Laken Riley was brutally murdered by an illegal alien that President Biden and the Democrats let into this country with their open border policy," House Speaker Mike Johnson said in a statement after the vote. "It is hard to believe after countless horrific stories like Lakens, ANY House Democrats would vote against deporting illegal aliens who commit violent crimes against American citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But 159 just did, demonstrating some Democrats have ignored the loud and clear message from voters in this election who demanded secure borders, the deportation of violent illegal aliens, and laws that put the safety and security of the American people first," he added. Reintroduced by Georgia Rep. Mike Collins, a Republican, the legislation pins Riley's death on the Biden administration's open-border policies and grants power to attorneys general to sue the federal government if they can show their states are being harmed over failure to implement national immigration policies. The measure also allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for harm caused to citizens allegedly due to illegal immigration. The bill was named after Riley, a nursing student who was murdered by illegal immigrant Jose Ibarra while jogging on campus at the University of Georgia. Ibarra was sentenced to life in prison for the murder. "The only thing President Biden did after Laken's tragic death was apologize for calling her murderer an illegal," Johnson said ahead of the vote. "That's outrageous. We all know the real victim here was young Laken. There are real consequences to policy decisions. This one was deadly." PHOTO: In this March 9, 2024, file photo, a supporter holds a poster with a photo of Laken Riley before Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally in Rome Ga. (Mike Stewart/AP, FILE) MORE: Laken Riley case: Suspect found guilty by judge in campus killing, sentenced to life Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House previously passed the bill in March by a vote of 251-170, with 37 Democrats voting in favor. The bill was expected to pass again with bipartisan support. House Republicans heard the voices of those who wanted change and voted to pass the Laken Riley Act," Johnson said Tuesday. "We will always fight to protect Americans, and todays success is just the beginning of Republican efforts to undo the catastrophic damage caused by years of the Democrats failed leadership. The measure now heads to the Senate, where Majority Leader John Thune teed up a procedural vote on the Laken Riley Act, which could occur as soon as this week. It will be one of the first legislative actions taken by the new Senate. The bill will need 60 votes to advance through the upper chamber. Even with the Republicans' new 53-vote majority, it could prove difficult to court the necessary Democratic support to advance it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, only one Democrat, Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, is reportedly co-sponsoring the bill, which is being led in the chamber by Sens. Katie Britt, R-Ala., and Ted Budd, R-N.C. It is unclear whether there will be requisite Democratic support to clear the Senate. The Senate, under Democratic leadership last session, never considered the act as a standalone bill. But it previously considered the Laken Riley Act when Senate Republicans forced a vote on it as an amendment to a sweeping government funding package in March. The amendment was considered as a government shutdown loomed, and changes to the bill would have likely forced a government shutdown. No Democrats voted for it at the time, though it later earned the support of Montana Sen. Jon Tester, who lost reelection to Republican Sen. Tim Sheehy. House passes Laken Riley Act as 1st bill of new GOP-controlled Congress originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Sen. Shane Morigeau, D-Missoula, discusses Democratic priorities at the start of the 2025 session with other Native American legislators standing with him. (Keila Szpaller/The Daily Montanan) Life needs to be easier for everyday Montanans with lower property taxes, access to Medicaid, and affordable housing, Democratic legislative leaders said Monday. If you work hard, you should be able to afford to live here. Thats kind of the bottom line, said Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers, D-Belgrade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its not the case in Montana, said House Minority Leader Katie Sullivan, D-Missoula. House Minority Leader Katie Sullivan, D-Missoula, discusses Democratic priorities. Democrats gained more seats but remain a minority in the 2025 session. (Keila Szpaller/The Daily Montanan) Folks have been paying much more and getting much less, Sullivan said. Its hard to make ends meet, to raise a family. In the old Montana Supreme Court chambers, Democrats announced their priorities as the 69th Montana Legislature kicked into gear. They started the session with more seats than last time, two more in the Senate and 10 more in the House, thanks in part to redistricting, but remain in the minority. Democrats said failed policies from Republicans is one reason they have more power this time around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Democrats made gains in the legislature, Republicans earned wins in every statewide office this year. For the 2025 session, Flowers characterized the Democrats agenda, called Getting Montana Back on Track, as one pushing freedom, fairness and restoring affordability. Montanans have been facing rising property taxes, and he said Democrats will fight tooth and nail for relief. We know that putting Montanans first starts with fair taxes, Flowers said. Sen. Pat Flowers, D-Belgrade, identifies Democratic priorities for the 2025 Montana Legislature. (Keila Szpaller/The Daily Montanan) Republicans had a supermajority in 2023 and control the Governors Office, and the GOP has said it helped on the tax relief front with rebates two years in a row and income tax cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flowers, though, said everyday Montanans remain strapped nonetheless, and Democrats will propose child care solutions, protections for unions, and family medical leave to help. They want to make inroads for farmers and ranchers, renters, people who live in mobile home parks, and doctors and dentists who rely on Medicaid reimbursements. Education and ensuring children are healthy and can learn is another priority. We know that kids learn best when their stomachs are full, said Sen. Shane Morigeau, D-Missoula. This year, ensuring Medicaid expansion is a top priority for Democrats. Rep. SJ Howell, D-Missoula, said health care is one component that makes life easier for Montanans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Montanans dont use Medicaid for a long time, but they use it for a critical time in their lives, such as to finish a degree or help an ailing loved one, said Howell, also minority whip. Rep. and minority whip S.J. Howell, D-Missoula, speaks on the first day of the 69th Montana Legislature. (Keila Szpaller/The Daily Montanan) We have to extend this program, Howell said of Medicaid expansion, which started in 2015, was extended in 2019 and will sunset in June 2025 without legislative action. Standing in front of members of the American Indian Caucus, Morigeau, also a minority whip, said the importance of Medicaid expansion cannot be overstated in Indian Country. If we fail to reauthorize Montanas Medicaid program, Indian Country will suffer and people will probably die in Montana, Morigeau said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morigeau said tribal communities face unique health care needs, and one priority is to reinstate a tribal health manager for Montana. Morigeau said preserving Native American languages is critical, and reauthorizing the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act is a must. Reauthorizing this legislation just isnt good for Montana Indians, its good for Montanans, Morigeau said. Republicans are stressing the need for judicial reform this session and have a slate of bills ready for consideration, and Flowers said Democrats will resist those efforts, which he said put the Montana Constitution at risk. Were going to fight to keep politics out of our court system, Flowers said. Democrats noted their platform includes 42 bills that also address housing, public schools, and privacy, support for workers, and more. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Students at a Vancouver high school walked out of class Monday following news that an English teacher was accused of sexual misconduct with a minor last month. Shadbreon Gatson, 43, was arrested by Vancouver police Dec. 20 after law enforcement received information from a former Hudsons Bay High School student about incidents that took place in 2013, according to officials. Legacy nurses at 3 Oregon hospitals announce intent to unionize Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, this charge was dropped due to the expiration of the statute of limitations, court documents say. The school district then contracted a third-party investigator to review these previous investigations and consider more recent leads. Students involved in the walkout took to Instagram to share their plans to leave class at 10:40 a.m. on Monday. I know that theres a line in the boundary that teachers dont cross, but some do anyways, said Shannon Johns, a senior at Hudsons Bay. And who am I supposed to go to for that? I cant go to them. Students staged a peaceful walkout at Hudsons Bay High School in Vancouver, January 6, 2025 (KOIN) Joel Catalaafemata, a junior, added that the fact that that trust is broken over years over multiple generations is, to me, quite ridiculous. Because why should we have these kinds of people in our schools? And how are they able to get past this for so long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vancouver Public Schools said Gatson was placed on leave on Nov. 8, when the district first learned of inappropriate behavior. But law enforcement said the arrest stemmed from the Dec. 2 report filed by the former student. Man accused of kidnapping, sexually assaulting woman after helping her carry groceries home In a letter previously sent by VPS to parents and staff, the district said Gatson will remain on administrative leave as the investigation continues. We do take our responsibility to thoroughly and fairly investigate matters such as this very seriously, the letter stated. The safety of our students is again paramount, and if necessary and appropriate, we will take action at the end of our investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Principal Valerie Seeley and Bill Oman, the director of schools and learning for VPS, were administrators at the time of alleged abuse and both volunteered to be put on leave while these investigations are ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has accused Ukraine of putting the European Union in a difficult economic situation by stopping the transit of Russian gas. Source: Szijjarto on Facebook, as reported by European Pravda Details: Szijjarto said that "even the most fanatical Brussels officials" cannot deny that the competitiveness of the European Union has "deteriorated sharply" in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He argues that one of the main reasons for this is that "gas prices in Europe have become much higher than those of our competitors". "The rise in European natural gas prices has been mainly caused by measures that artificially reduce its quantity, such as the elimination of some sources of natural gas through sanctions or policies, as well as the blocking of certain transport routes," Szijjarto explained. Nonetheless, Szijjarto noted that Hungary has diversified its sources of gas, so the rise in energy prices in Europe will not have a major impact on the country. He blamed Ukraine for the recent suspension of Russian natural gas transit to Central Europe for the price increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Since the suspension of the Ukrainian transit route became final in mid-December, the price of natural gas on the European market has increased by 20%. Thus, although Ukraine is trying to join the EU as a candidate, it has once again put the European economy in a difficult situation with its latest decision. This specifically concerns Central Europe," he wrote. Szijjarto said he had met with his Slovak counterpart Juraj Blanar to "analyse the situation" following the suspension of Russian gas transit. "We agreed that the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement must be respected by both sides, and this agreement also provides for the preservation of energy transportation routes," he added. Nevertheless, as reported on 6 January, the European Commission did not record any sharp jumps in gas prices in the European Union after Ukraine stopped transiting Russian gas to the EU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: The contract between Ukraine and Russia for gas transit to Europe expired at the end of 2024 after the Ukrainian side decided not to renew it. After that, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico sharply criticised Kyiv for these actions and wrote a letter to EU leaders expressing dissatisfaction with the actions of the Ukrainian side. On Thursday, 9 January, Fico will travel to Brussels for talks with the European Commission on the situation with the suspension of gas transit through Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto accused Ukraine of exacerbating Europe's economic challenges by halting Russian gas transit, leading to a 20% rise in natural gas prices on the European market, in a post published on Facebook on Jan. 7. Ukraine refused to prolong an agreement with Russia on Russian natural gas transit through its territory that expired on Jan. 1, citing its refusal to finance Russias war. While the EU has worked to reduce reliance on Russian fossil fuels, countries like Hungary and Slovakia remain dependent on Russian gas. Szijjarto criticized Ukraines actions, claiming they put the European economy, particularly Central Europe, in a difficult position. "Although Ukraine is trying to join the EU as a candidate for membership, with its latest decision, it has once again put the European economy in a difficult situation," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also claimed that Hungary has diversified its energy sources and will not be significantly affected by rising prices. Hungary annually imports approximately 4.5 billion cubic meters of Russian gas under a 15-year agreement signed in 2021. Alongside Slovakia and Austria, Hungary remains reliant on Russian gas purchased through Gazprombank, which is under Western sanctions. Szijjarto said he had met with Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar to analyze the situation and emphasized that Ukraine must uphold its EU association agreement, which includes commitments to maintain energy transportation routes. Slovak, Ukrainian, and European Commission representatives were scheduled to meet on Jan. 7 in Brussels to discuss the transit shutdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the meeting was canceled. While Slovakia claimed that Ukraine refused to participate, Kyiv refuted the claim. Since Ukraine's energy minister was forced to stay in Ukraine due to the "difficult situation in the energy sector," he suggested holding the discussions online, Kyiv said. The European Commission said it was working to reschedule the talks and affirmed that the EU energy market remains stable despite the transit halt. Hungary, seen as the EUs most Moscow-friendly member, has repeatedly blocked sanctions against Russia and aid to Ukraine. Szijjarto has continued to visit Russia throughout the war, setting Hungary apart from other EU nations. Read also: UK, Baltics, Nordics step up undersea monitoring amid cable sabotage, Russian shadow fleet concerns Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. JERUSALEM 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 isnt 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 Netanyahus 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. This morning, I and everyone in Israel woke up and discovered that the state of Israel has put together a Schindlers 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Netanyahus 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. The New York judge who oversaw President-elect Trumps criminal trial last spring declined his request to pause Fridays sentencing, setting up a last-minute appellate battle as he seeks to stave off the proceeding. Trump could still attempt to have an appeals court step in as his attorneys argue Judge Juan Merchan was wrong to reject Trumps presidential immunity claims and uphold the conviction in his hush money criminal case. This Court has considered Defendants arguments in support of his motion and finds that they are for the most part, a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past, Merchan wrote in Mondays ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, a New York jury found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in connection with a hush money payment made to porn actor Stormy Daniels so she would keep an alleged affair, which he denies, secret ahead of the 2016 presidential election. Merchan, who oversees the trial proceedings, had agreed to Trumps requests to delay his sentencing until after the election. The judge rescheduled it for Friday after rejecting Trumps efforts to toss the case over his separate immunity claims as a former president and president-elect. Though Merchan said he is inclined to impose no jail time or punishment, the trajectory would keep Trumps criminal conviction intact and make him the first felon to assume the presidency on Inauguration Day, now just two weeks away. Trumps attorneys are seeking to block that scenario, demanding the sentencing be put on hold as they appeal Merchans recent rulings. Trump filed the first of two expected appeals Monday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice Merchan is without authority under the law to proceed to sentencing while President Trump exercises his federal constitutional right to challenge these rulings, and the erroneous jury verdict in the underlying criminal case must be vacated and the charges against President Trump must be dismissed with prejudice, without further delay, Trumps attorneys wrote. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs (D) office pushed back, noting in court filings Monday that Trump had asked for the delays and that wrapping up the case now with a sentencing the president-elect wouldnt be required to attend in person wouldnt interfere with his presidency. 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, prosecutors wrote. Trumps ask for a delay comes as only days remain until he retakes the White House. Legal experts largely agree that, at minimum, the proceedings cant move forward after the inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 5:22 p.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 PIX11. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A brand-new ice cream soda shop promises to bring an old-school style experience back to Sioux City. According to a release, Scoops Udder Place will open up later this week. It will set up shop inside the RE/MAX City Centre (which was previously the Riviera Theatre) downtown. The shops interior is retro-inspired and based on the bygone soda shops of years past. Customers will be able to choose from ice cream, milkshakes, and other homemade nostalgic treats, the release says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We make all of our ice from scratch daily and we cant wait to share our premium homemade products with Sioux City, owner Jason Schiffer said in a statement in part. Siouxland Youth Hockey encouraging young girls to take on hockey Scoops Udder Place is the latest in a series of developments aimed at revitalizing downtown Sioux City. This concept is the essence of the hopeful vision for the RE/MAX City Centre. Bringing destination experiences to downtown Sioux City, while celebrating [its] historic past, Jeff Carlson with the RE/MAX City Centre said in a statement in part. I am utterly impressed, pun intended, with the attention to detail from the Scoops team in creating this throwback concept This is something Siouxlanders and visitors alike are going to love! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shop is set to open on Thursday, Jan. 9. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has expressed gratitude to Iceland for its recent contribution to producing Ukrainian weapons under the Danish model. Source: Ukraine's Foreign Ministry, as reported by European Pravda Details: Icelandic Foreign Minister orgerur Katrin Gunnarsdottir arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, 7 January. During their meeting, Sybiha thanked her for Iceland's support in producing Ukrainian weapons based on the Danish model. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "We are grateful to Iceland for the recent contribution of over 2 million to the production of Ukrainian weapons under the Danish model. We look forward to further increase of the Icelandic investments in the Ukrainian defence industry," the Ukrainian foreign minister said. Sybiha also expressed gratitude to Iceland for its assistance in mine clearance, logistics, training of the Ukrainian military and support for the initiative on the rapid procurement of weapons. They also discussed Iceland's continued support for Ukraine's Peace Formula and its assistance with prosthetics for injured Ukrainian soldiers. Background: Notably, in the summer of 2024, Iceland contributed around 2 million to the purchase of ammunition for Ukraine under the Czech-led initiative, as well as equipment for Ukrainian soldiers. In June, Kyiv and Copenhagen signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the purchase of weapons and equipment from Ukrainian manufacturers by Denmark. Denmark was the first country to take such a step. Support UP or become our patron! Jared DeLoof, executive director of the Idaho Democratic Party, speaks to attendees during the general election watch party Nov. 5, 2024, in Boise. (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun) Idaho Democratic Party Executive Director Jared DeLoof is resigning from his position leading the states second largest political party. DeLoof has served as executive director of the Idaho Democratic Party since May 2021, the Idaho Capitol Sun previously reported. His last day is Jan. 31, party officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idaho Democrats thanked DeLoof for his leadership and ability to organize Democrats in rural areas and cities alike. During his tenure, Jared achieved transformative milestones, including organizing all 44 county parties, running a record number of candidates and launching our most robust coordinated campaigns in history, Idaho Democratic Party Chairwoman Lauren Necochea wrote in a written statement Tuesday. Jareds vision and dedication have strengthened our foundation. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Prior to joining the Idaho Democratic Party, DeLoof worked with the political organization NextGen America and as a rural organizer for former President Barack Obamas campaigns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Necochea praised DeLoof for his work to increase the number of Democratic candidates running for office and bringing together Democrats from all corners of the state. Idaho Democrats have initiated a search to name DeLoofs successor. The search for our next executive director is underway, and were optimistic about the future, Necochea added. Together, we will grow the Idaho Democratic Party and continue the fight for our freedoms, our families, and our futures. In a written statement, DeLoof said he is proud of his work with Idaho Democrats. Serving as executive director of the Idaho Democratic Party has been an incredible honor, DeLoof wrote Tuesday. Im so proud of what weve built together, from rebuilding our county parties to running candidates in every legislative district for the first time. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeLoof plans to remain in Boise. When I first took on this role, I planned to see the party through the midterms, but I chose to stay on through the presidential election because I believed in the incredible progress we have made and the team we built, DeLoof added. Now, an exciting new opportunity has come my way, and while Im stepping into a new role, I will remain here in Boise and look forward to continuing the fight alongside the Idaho Dems. Before DeLoofs tenure, Idaho Democrats cycled through several executive directors, including one who was fired two days after being hired in 2019, the Idaho Statesman previously reported. Democrats consistently face an uphill battle in Idaho, where Republicans have controlled a legislative supermajority for decades. In Novembers general election, Democrats lost three additional seats to Republicans in the Idaho Legislature. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Update: 1/8/25 3:45 p.m. DANFORTH, Ill. (WCIA) The Illinois Commerce Commission said that in February of 2024, they granted design and funding approval for new safety devices at the County Road 2300 North highway-rail grade crossing near Danforth. The responsibility to install the lights and gates falls to Illinois Central Railroad, according to the ICC. The Commission also approved over $300,000 from the Grade Crossing Protection Fund to pay for the majority of the signal design and construction costs for the project. Illinois Central Railroad will pay the remaining 5% of the total cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The work is scheduled to be completed within 18 months of the Final Order date according to the Commission. The railroad confirmed with the commission that the work will be done in the spring. Update: 6 p.m. DANFORTH, Ill. (WCIA) The recent storm brought out snowplows to clear the roads across Central Illinois, and the unthinkable happened to the driver of one on Monday morning. IDOT officials told WCIA that Aaron Pittman-Teague had been working for IDOT since 2023, and was on the job in Danforth. Sherman Police Dept. mourns longtime officer after battle with cancer State Police said Teague was driving over a railroad crossing when a train hit his snowplow. He was transported to an area hospital where he later died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WCIA spoke to a person in Danforth who was at the scene minutes after it happened. He did not want to speak on camera but said he was in his morning meeting about a quarter of a mile away from the scene when the train horn began to whistle. The next sound he heard was a boom. He said he ran out and saw debris everywhere. The witness called 911 around 8:20 in the morning and saw the emergency vehicles arrive. One resident who works in the area near the accident said that a local mulcher cut down some trees near the railroad tracks to increase visibility. Now, that has still not completely satisfied some in the community who are saying that this is not a safe area. The Illinois Commerce Commission took a step to add to the crossings safety February of last year. Documents on their website say the crossing will get automatic lights, gates and a bell, but theyre not up yet. The improvements are supposed to be completed within 18 months of the approval. WCIA reached out to the Commerce Commission for comment but is still waiting to hear back. Update at 1:30 p.m. KANKAKEE, Ill. (WCIA) The Kankakee County Coroners Office has released the name of an IDOT employee who died after his snowplow was hit by a train near Danforth on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coroner Robert Gessner told WCIA the employee was 29-year-old Aaron Pittman-Teague. After the crash, Pittman-Teague was transported from Iroquois County to Riverside Hospital in Kankakee, where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy was performed on Tuesday, Gessner added. The results are not available pending routine toxicology testing. The Illinois Department of Transportation, through spokesperson Paul Wappel, provided the following statement when reached for comment: We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Aaron Pittman-Teague, a full-time temporary highway maintainer since 2023 who died Monday morning when the snowplow he was operating was struck by a train in Iroquois County. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to his family and to all of those impacted. The department will be cooperating with the Illinois State Police as they continue to investigate. Paul Wappel, Illinois Department of Transportation DANFORTH, Ill. (WCIA) The driver of an IDOT snowplow was killed on Monday when his vehicle was hit by a train in Iroquois County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The collision happened just before 8:30 a.m. north of Danforth, State Police confirmed with WCIA. The plow was at the intersection of U.S. Route 45 and County Road 2300 North when it was struck by a passing Canadian National freight train. Photos taken at the scene show the railroad crossing does not have bar gates and warning lights. Photo courtesy of Gary Burch Photo courtesy of Gary Burch Decatur school bus collides with garage in minor accident State Police said the snowplow driver was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead. WCIA reached out to the Coroners Office, IDOT and Canadian National for further information and comment. This is a developing story. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) Anyone subject to a domestic violence-related order of protection must relinquish their guns to someone eligible to own them. A new bill, however, would require police to confiscate firearms in those cases within a certain timeframe. Initially filed in September 2023, House Bill 4144 was amended Monday night to include the gun-confiscation provision named Karinas Law after a woman and her daughter who were fatally shot by her husband. It requires police to seize guns within 96 hours from individuals whose FOID cards are revoked by a judge due to emergency restraining orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Sen. Celina Villanueva, D-Chicago, sponsored the bill. This law will save lives, Villanueva said. We know that the presence of a firearm increases the risk of homicide in domestic violence cases. Karinas Law closes a dangerous loophole and send a clear message: Illinois prioritizes the safety and dignity of survivors. Opponents of the measure say it threatens the right to bear arms and due process. House Bill 4144 passed the Senate late Monday. It can now be taken up by the House Tuesday, the last full day of the lame duck session. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois House on Monday approved a bill aimed at making it easier for relatives of children in state care to get licensed as foster parents and receive assistance. The measure, which passed without opposition, now goes to Gov. JB Pritzker, who has said he will sign it. Were going to change some kids life, said Rep. Marcus Evans, a Chicago Democrat who sponsored the bill. This legislation represents more than just change from our worker system but it represents an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of children and families and build stronger, more resilient communities across our state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters of the legislation said keeping kids with family members can reduce trauma, provide a clearer path toward possible reunification with their parents, help make placements more permanent when needed and reduce the number of children that need to be housed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Thats what were looking for. Getting these children somewhere permanent, higher placement satisfaction, the list goes on and on, Evans said. About 60% of family members caring for children placed through DCFS would qualify for the financial support offered under the bill, according to Illinois ACLU, which helped push the bill through the General Assembly. The bill had a number of opponents early last year, but after a few clarifying amendments, the bill passed unanimously in the Senate last November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the most recent Senate amendment, relatives would be able file complaints that DCFS must respond to within 30 days. DCFS would also be required to update the General Assembly on progress with acquiring federal funding and make the foster application process electronic by 2026, according to the legislation. Were gonna have to keep our eye on whats going on with this bill, said Rep. Steven Reick, a Republican from Woodstock and sponsor on the bill. Were gonna have to look at what DCFS is doing with it, but I do believe this is a step forwardon fixing our broken child welfare system. Evans said the measure would not result in additional costs to the state. This bill is not a solution to every problem, but I think its going to go a long way to give DCFS the tools to solve family issues, to increase family connections, Evans said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DCFS Director Heidi Mueller, who was appointed by Pritzker last year, has been a vocal supporter of kinship care This legislative change will help more young people who are awaiting a permanent loving home find that permanency through guardianship, Mueller said in a statement. Other organizations that supported the bill included the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, Illinois Collaboration On Youth and the Illinois National Organization for Women. COMPANY NEWS: Dragos Inc., the global leader in cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) environments, and the Singapore Armed Forces Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop advanced cybersecurity capabilities, collaborate on strategic cybersecurity planning and training, and facilitate the two-way sharing of information about cyber threats. Kurt Gaudette, Senior Vice President of Intelligence and Services at Dragos, and Brigadier-General (BG) Edward Chen, DIS Defence Cyber Chief, signed the three-year agreement on the sidelines of the Critical Infrastructure Defence Exercise (CIDeX) 2024 in Singapore. Organised by DIS and the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore, CIDeX aims to strengthen Singapores capabilities to detect and defend against cybersecurity threats. The DIS continues to expand and build on its partnership with key partners across various sectors, including the tech industry, to further cyber collaboration, said BG Chen. This MOU with Dragos speaks to our close partnership, and we look forward to working closely in the year ahead. Singapores proactive approach to cybersecurity is truly impressive and serves as an example for other nations to follow to ensure safety for their critical infrastructure and their citizens, said Gaudette. Together, the DIS and Dragos are committed to empowering Singapore with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the evolving cyber threat landscape. Dragos has a long history in sharing guidance with Singapore about best practices in securing critical infrastructure, and in August 2023 signed an MOU with the CSA to strengthen Singapores capabilities in OT cybersecurity. About the Ministry of Defence, Singapore As part of the transformation of the Next Generation Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS), the fourth Service of the SAF was established in 2022. The DIS sees the consolidation and integration of existing Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) as well as cyber capabilities of the SAF. As a dedicated Service, the DIS will raise, train and sustain digital forces and capabilities to fulfil its mission to defend the peace and security of Singapore from the evolving and increasingly complex threats in the digital domain. The mission of the DIS is to defend and dominate in the digital domain. As part of an integrated SAF, the DIS will enhance Singapores security, from peace to war. The DIS plays a critical role in defending Singapore from threats in the digital domain, and allows the SAF to operate better as a networked and integrated force to deal with a wider spectrum of external threats to enhance and safeguard Singapores peace and sovereignty. The DIS collaborates with partners across the MINDEF, SAF, Whole-of-Government agencies and like-minded partners in academia and industry in defending our nation against threats in the digital domain. Building a highly-skilled digital workforce is key to the digital defence strategy of the SAF. The DIS continually attracts and develops both military and non-uniformed digital experts to grow the SAFs digital workforce. For more information on the DIS and its careers, please visit: www.mindef.gov.sg/dis About Dragos, Inc. Dragos provides the most effective OT cybersecurity technology for industrial and critical infrastructure to deliver on our global mission: to safeguard civilization. After nearly a decade of real-world experience handling landmark attacks on OT networks, Dragos understands the complexity and risks of industrial environments, which operate on massive scale with unique systems and exacting availability requirements and are not protected by IT cybersecurity. The Dragos Platform provides visibility and monitoring of OT environments for asset identification, vulnerability management, and threat detection with continuous insights generated by the industrys most experienced OT threat intelligence and services team. It discovers and monitors OT, IT, IoT, and IIoT assets within the OT environment and integrates with IT security infrastructure. Dragos protects customers across a range of industrial sectors including electric, oil & gas, manufacturing, water, transportation, mining, and government. Dragos is privately held and headquartered in the Washington, DC area with presence around the world and offices in North America, EMEA, and APAC. Jan. 7DIXON The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced a stricter standard for public health interventions based on children's blood lead test results in 2025. Illinois law dictates that all children residing in a Pediatric Lead Poisoning High-Risk ZIP code area, which includes Dixon, Sterling and Rock Falls, are to be automatically screened for blood lead levels at 12, 24 and 36 months of age. Children ages 6 and younger are required to be assessed for lead exposure through a questionnaire administered by a pediatrician. Under previous Illinois law, blood tests with lead levels exceeding 5 micrograms per deciliter required a public health intervention. The new rule approved by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules in August 2024 and taken into effect on Jan. 1, lowered that to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lisa Wiggins, director of maternal and child health for the Lee County Health Department, said public health interventions include a home inspection to find the source of the lead contamination and a visit from a public health nurse who teaches household members how to protect themselves against the harmful effects of lead. "We will end up with some positive lead screens that we're going to have to do case management on," Wiggins said. "The doctor's office does the lead screen. If it's a high lead level, it goes into their system, and that's how we get notified. Then, we contact the parents and set up a home visit along with our lead assessor." There is no cost for the inspection and if lead is found in the home, the inspector will work with the owner to have it removed. The new screening requirements are part of several public health system laws and regulations that went into effect Wednesday. "The Illinois Department of Public Health is excited to see new laws and rules go into effect this new year to improve the health of Illinois' public," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. "We appreciate the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois General Assembly and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules in advancing solutions that protect our residents and make our Illinois communities healthier." ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (WTVO) An investigation has been launched after a 22-year-old suspect, who was wanted on an active warrant, was killed by a police officer Sunday afternoon. According to the Rock Island Police Department, the shooting occurred near 12th Street and 24th Avenue after an officer made repeated attempts to stop a vehicle. Around 3:20 p.m., Jakarta Jackson, of East Moline, stopped his vehicle and fled on foot. Police said Jackson circled back to his car and got in, but the officer opened the drivers door and was dragged as Jackson drove off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the incident, police said the officer fired his gun, striking Jackson, who later died from his injury. The officer was also treated for injuries at a local hospital, and then released. The Rock Island County Integrity Task Force has been called in to investigate the officer-involved shooting. The investigation will review the facts of the case and then turn it over to the Rock Island County States Attorneys Office for a final determination. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) One requirement for Illinoisans to legally change their name may be going away. A bill that passed the Illinois Senate Sunday would change the law so name changes are no longer required to be published in a local newspaper. State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago), the bills sponsor, thinks that process was outdated. New Illinois law impacts healthcare, begins in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When someone is seeking a name change, whether it is to protect themselves from domestic violence or to affirm ones identity, everyone deserves the right to do so without the burden of the cumbersome and expensive publication process, he said. Additionally, by requiring residents to publish their name change, it relinquishes the privacy of such individuals and can be harmful to their safety or well-being. The bill also allows residents of the state for three months to change their name; under the current law, residents have to have lived in the state for six months. Finally, the proposal created a procedure to impound their court file to make their personal information even more confidential. Many Republican senators voted against the bill, worrying criminals may use it as a tool to evade law enforcement. Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) was not in attendance for the vote Sunday because of the snowstorm, but said he would have voted no if he were there. Were talking about helping a bunch of non-citizens change their name to create essentially a loophole that is ripe for exploitation, Rose said. It opens the door for individuals to manipulate legal systems, manipulate them, manipulate legal processes, hide their true identities and avoid accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Capitol Connection: Lawmakers have short priority list for Lame Duck Session Anyone undergoing a name change will still have to face a judge. Villivalam also emphasized that Drivers License numbers, social security numbers and fingerprints can all be used to track individuals after a name change. The bill must be voted on in the House before Wednesday before it heads to the Governors desk to become a law. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 photo showing what a law enforcement official said is one of two improvised explosive devices that investigators believe were placed in the French Quarter by the man responsible for the deadly New Orleans truck attack on New Year's Day was obtained by CBS News Tuesday. The photo, which was provided by a senior law enforcement source with knowledge of the situation, shows rolls of nails and what appears to be a radio receiver inside a cooler. The photo of the IED was first published by ABC News. A photo of an improvised explosive device that investigators believe was placed in New Orleans' French Quarter by the man responsible for the deadly New Year's Day truck attack which killed more than a dozen people. / Credit: CBS News Christopher Raia, deputy assistant director of the FBI's counterintelligence division, told reporters last week that two active IEDs were found in coolers near intersections in the French Quarter. Neither detonated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI released surveillance video Sunday it said showed the attacker, 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar of Texas, placing the devices. Officials said Jabbar had a detonator device inside the truck. They also said the detonator likely would not have worked. A person familiar with the investigation had previously told CBS News that the devices were rudimentary pipe bombs that contained shrapnel including nails, screws and tacks. Jabbar used a truck to mow down people on Bourbon Street in the early hours of Jan. 1. At least 14 people were killed in the attack and dozens more injured in one of the deadliest vehicle-ramming incidents in the U.S. in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said Jabbar had two guns on him at the time of the attack and used one of them to shoot and injure two police officers. An FBI official said in a briefing Sunday that investigators are looking into a series of trips the attacker made to both New Orleans and Egypt in 2023. The FBI also released a security photo Tuesday that shows a man believed to be the attacker riding a bike through the French Quarter on Oct. 31, 2024, about two months before the attack. An image from a security camera released by the FBI which investigators believe shows 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the New Orleans New Year's Day truck attacker, biking through the French Quarter on Oct. 31, 2024. / Credit: FBI Jabbar, a U.S. citizen, was an Army veteran and Houston resident. According to the FBI, Jabbar said in videos recorded prior to the attack that he joined the Islamic State "before the summer." An ISIS flag was attached to the back of the truck. Authorities have deemed the attack an act of terrorism. President Biden and first lady Jill Biden visited the attack site on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I know events like this are hard, the shock and pain is still so very raw," Mr. Biden said at an evening vigil. "My wife, Jill, and I are here to stand with you, grieve with you, pray with you, let you know you are not alone." Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada On-the-ground look at the Palisades Fire burning in southern California Colorado Rep. Iman Jodeh speaks about amendments to Senate Bill 23-213 at the Capitol on May 3, 2023. (Sara Wilson/Colorado Newsline) State Rep. Iman Jodeh will replace retiring Democratic Sen. Janet Buckner in the Colorado Legislature for Senate District 29, a vacancy committee decided Monday evening. Jodeh won the appointment with 35 votes in the first round of voting. There were 42 district Democrats who voted in the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Business owner Maya Wheeler got 7 votes and non-profit leader Christian Caldwell received zero votes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The result creates a domino effect, as another vacancy committee meeting will need to decide on a replacement for Jodeh. The Aurora Democrat was first elected to the House in 2020 and has run successful legislation on transit-oriented housing development, pricing for epinephrine auto-injectors and the creation of the Office of New Americans. Jodeh is the first Muslim and first Palestinian-American elected to the state Legislature. She was reelected to Auroras House District 41 with about 61% of the vote last November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im ready to carry forward the values that have guided my work in public service: fairness, inclusion and an unwavering commitment to our democratic principles, and to building a brighter future for all Coloradans, she said. Im deeply moved by the incredible support from our community and my colleagues. In a candidate forum before the vote, Jodeh said the Legislature needs to work on protections for immigrants during this upcoming session, which will coincide with Republican President-elect Donald Trumps first few months in office. Trump vowed during his campaign to initiate mass deportation efforts of undocumented immigrants, singling out Aurora and its growing community of immigrants, many of whom are from Venezuela and South America. We need to work with our local governments to maintain or enhance sanctuary policies that prevent local resources from being used to enforce federal immigration laws, she said. We need to invest in programs that support immigrant integration, such as language classes, job training, housing assistance and ensuring families can thrive without fear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buckner announced her resignation from the Senate in November, citing family and health reasons. She was first appointed to the House in 2015 to serve the remainder of her husbands term after his death and she served in the House until her election to the Senate in 2020. When a lawmaker resigns or dies during their term, a committee of voters from that lawmakers party and district decide on a replacement. Buckner is one of three senators who stepped down before the start of the upcoming legislative session on Wednesday. Former Republican Kevin Van Winkle resigned when he won election and then got an early appointment to the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. Republicans appointed former University of Colorado Regent John Carson to replace Van Winkle, according to Colorado Politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Sen. Chris Hansen is also leaving the Senate to take a private sector job. Seven people are running to replace him, including Rep. Steven Woodrow and Rep.-elect Sean Camacho, and Democrats will appoint the new senator on Jan. 7. The number of resignations and vacancy committees directly following a general election Buckner and Hansen just won new terms has prompted calls to reform the process, including from state Democratic Party Chair Shad Murib. The Legislature will have a chance to change how replacements for resigning lawmakers are chosen when they reconvene on Jan. 8. I want to congratulate Sen.-elect Iman Jodeh on her win, and I also want to thank Maya Wheeler and Christian Caldwell for running to fill this vacancy, Murib said in a statement Monday night. At this critical moment in our nations history, we need strong leaders at every level who will fight for everyone to have a fair shot at a great life and a great education in our state. Iman Jodeh will be someone this district can trust to do just that, and I am grateful to everyone who threw their hat into the ring. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Amid political controversy regarding foreign workers, another debate in Washington once again leads back to Mississippi. In late December, talk about temporary foreign workers generated passionate debate online. Particularly, immigrants in the U.S. on an H-1B visa. The program enables employers to expand their job search to highly-skilled foreign workers. Despite what one may feel about the program, it is likely not vanishing in the United States or Mississippi anytime soon. Basic restrictions Before the immigrant worker applies for a visa, the prospective employer must effectively sponsor them to work there. This is done through a Labor Condition Application (LCA). Institutions like Mississippi State University recommend that people apply for their visa at least two months before their scheduled H-1B employment sponsorship begins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under current law, an immigrant applies for up to two intervals of three years. After that time, the immigrant must remain outside the United States for one year before another H-1B petition can be approved. There is a statutory limit for how many H-1B visas the government issues. For 2025, there is a 65,000-person cap and an additional 20,000 cap for those with graduate degrees. DHS rolls out new rules for skilled foreign workers on H-1B visas Mississippi numbers Many of the people looking for foreign workers are hiring in the medical industry and education. According to Myvisajobs.com, the following employers have the most LCAs open: Rank H1B Visa Sponsor Number of LCAs Average Salary 1 University Of Mississippi Medical Center 76 $212,292 2 Mississippi State University 60 $72,804 3 Jackson Public School District 50 $52,012 4 University of Mississippi 44 $77,671 5 The University of Southern Mississippi 20 $69,278 6 Infinite Computer Solutions 16 $81,571 7 Tata Consultancy Services 13 $106,822 8 North Mississippi Medical Center 11 $376,811 9 Blue Cross & Blue Shield Of Mississippi 11 $110,361 10 Cognizant Technology Solutions 8 $101,521 Based on Myvisajobs.coms data, many H-1B workers go on to obtain permanent residency. This process, called Labor Certification, is also done by the employer. Using provided data from the top seven H-1B employers based in Mississippi, they pushed for 54 H-1B holders to get their green cards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The website listed various employers from across the state looking to hire H-1B workers. Though many businesses were only interested in sponsoring one position, the data indicates that Mississippi employers seek immigrant workers to fill in gaps within their workforce. 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 WJTV. Tuesday marks 100 days since 68-year-old Laila Soueif started a hunger strike in a plea to the UK government to free her son from imprisonment in Egypt, according to her family. Alaa Abd El-Fattah was a leading activist in the countrys 2011 uprising. He has been imprisoned for much of the past decade, and in 2019 was sentenced to a further five years in prison for allegedly spreading false news after sharing a Facebook post highlighting human rights abuses in Egyptian jails. Both Soueif and Abd El-Fattah hold dual Egyptian and British citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soueif began her hunger strike in September, standing in front of the British Foreign Affairs office in protest at the lack of progress in freeing her son. She has been surviving on black coffee, herbal tea and three packets of rehydration salts a day, according to a statement from her family. She is currently in Cairo, in hopes of meeting her son for a 20-minute visit on January 8. The visit is expected to take place through a glass barrier at a prison located an hour outside the Egyptian capital, the statement said. Unfortunately, the government seems to be waiting for me to be hospitalized before they act decisively to secure my sons freedom. We have been lucky that my body has been resilient, but we will soon run out of time, Soueif said in the statement. The British government has previously said it is working to secure Abd El Fattahs release. In 2022, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak raised the imprisoned activists case during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on the sidelines of the COP27, a Downing Street spokesperson said at the time. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Law enforcement is asking the public to be on the lookout for an incarcerated man who escaped from a conservation camp in the San Gabriel Valley on Monday afternoon. It was around 2:45 p.m. when staff learned that Santiago Duran, 35, was missing from Julius Klein Conservation Camp in Azusa, according to a release from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Officials did not immediately specify exactly how Duran escaped other than the fact that he walked away from the camp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the release, Duran was last seen wearing a long-sleeved white thermal top and gray sweatpants. He is 5 feet and 7 inches tall, weighs 172 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes. Duran was received from Tulare County on July 7, 2023, to serve 10 years for criminal threats with enhancements of using a firearm, said CDCR. He was also charged with corporal injury, second striker, possessing a firearm as a felon, second striker. KSEE/KGPE, KTLAs sister station in Fresno, reported on Durans arrest in February of 2022 for a series of charges after he barricaded himself in a building during a standoff with police. According to the report, police responded to a residence in Porterville for calls of a domestic disturbance, and upon arrival found a female victim who had a visible injury to her face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KSEE/KGPE wrote that the suspect was identified as Duran, and when police attempted to contact him, he refused to open the buildings security screen and step out. When more officers arrived, Duran reportedly stepped out while holding a handgun and threatened to shoot one of the officers before he retreated inside. While Duran barricaded himself inside, officers told KSEE/KGPE that they were able to get the female victim and her child to safety. As the stand-off continued for hours, officers reportedly began evacuating people out of neighboring buildings and placed a nearby high school on lockdown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At about 5:30 p.m., Duran exited the building but did not comply with authorities according to officials, wrote KSEE/KGPE. Members of SWAT had to use non-lethal force to apprehend Duran according to officials. After his escape on Jan. 6, CDCR said anyone who sees Duran or has knowledge of his whereabouts should contact any law enforcement agency or 911, or contact Special Agent Marlon Andrews at 818-402-5073. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, speaks on his bill criminalizing certain forms of absentee ballot assistance in the Alabama Senate on March 19, 2024 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. Gudger, a two-term senator, is expected to become Senate President Pro Tem, the leader of the chamber. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector) The incoming leader of the Alabama Senate said he wants to improve communication among his colleagues. I do think that therell be a little bit more communication as we move forward into legislative session, said Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, during a phone interview late last month. There might be a few more caucus meetings on both sides of the aisle, so that we have more information of how to handle each week than just having one at the beginning of the week.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gudger, who has served in the Senate since 2018, won the Republican caucus nomination for Senate President Pro Tem in December after Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed, R-Jasper, announced that he would leave the Senate to take a job advising Gov. Kay Ivey on workforce development. He still needs to be voted on by the whole Senate officially, but Republicans hold 27 of the chambers 35 seats. The two-term senator has compiled a conservative record like his GOP colleagues, voting for the statewide abortion ban in 2019 and sponsoring a law last year that criminalized some forms of absentee voter assistance. Gudger was also the only Republican senator last year to vote against the CHOOSE Act, a voucher-like program that would allow families to claim up to $7,000 a year in tax credit for children for non-public school expenses, including private school tuition. Gudger said that the bill would have cost his district $2.8 million, and his constituents expected him to vote against it. He said his district has good schools and open enrollment. But he said he will need to think about the whole state in this new role in regards to legislation around charter schools, education savings accounts and voucher-like programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do think there is a need for it statewide, the senator said. What I have to focus on now is whats happening at the state level, and so that was the reasoning behind my vote, but I do think that was what my district wanted, he said. Gudger said during the interview that he expected the Senate to work on economic development and funding for mental health in the 2025 session, which starts in February. He said changes to the ethics law and laws on in-vitro fertilization could come up, though he was less certain on that and more noncommittal about the possibilities of gambling legislation and a proposal from Blue Cross Blue Shield to use Medicaid expansion dollars for a state health insurance program. But Gudger said he mostly sees his role as a facilitator. He said he hoped to start get more meetings among lawmakers from the same regions.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coastal region is different than the Wiregrass, he said. The Wiregrass is different than the Black Belt. The Black Belt is different than north central Alabama. So north central Alabama is different than the urban areas in Huntsville. And so its hard to sometimes to just blanket legislation for the whole state, because it affects those demographic areas differently. And I want to make sure that I understand the demographics of the state and what the constituents in those areas want through their senators. He said that his role is to be in charge of the whole Senate, regardless of party. Obviously, both sides of the aisle have different issues as we go forward, but Im looking forward to working on both sides of the aisle to help everyone in the Alabama State Senate, he said. Thats my job is to try to keep harmony and to keep us moving in the right direction as a body. If I was the majority leader, that would be in charge of the caucus, but Im not. Im in charge of the body of the Senate, and so I know that my role is to make sure that we work on both sides of the aisle to help everyone in that chamber. Gudger was cautious about issues that could come up. Rep. Matt Simpson, R-Daphne, sponsored a bill to overhaul ethics law last session which he plans to refile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He Gudger said that ethics is just whispers of what people are thinking about bringing back. I just hear that as we did our first round of polling that came up from some particular senators, and so I know that theyre still interested in bringing that forward, he said. The Legislature quickly passed a bill last year to protect fertility clinics from criminal and civil liability for offering in-vitro fertilization after the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos were children and that parents could claim civil damages for their destruction. Lawmakers said they would continue to study the issue, but a promised commission on IVF was never formed. Gudger said some senators mentioned it as a list item, but added that it was not rated at the top, and we still have another round of polling to do before I know anything about that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabama has not expanded medicaid. But, in last sessions gambling package, there was language around rural health, and AllHealth has become a discussion among some state leaders. Gudger said he was open to looking at ALLHealth, Blue Cross Blue Shields proposal to use Medicaid expansion money to give insurance to over 100,000 Alabamians in the coverage gap, but the bottom line is the cost and how it impacts the state and Alabamians. I think there is a need for helping people that do not have insurance now or cant afford it, so Im looking at different opportunities that are in front of us through legislation to help everyone, he said. He said that he was not planning to bring gambling legislation, but he thinks a few senators would like to see it come up, either in a clean lottery or a comprehensive package. Gudger said it would require a majority of Republicans and Democratic support. Its got to be a bipartisan event for that to happen either way, he said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Trump administration's Ukraine peace envoy, Keith Kellogg, has postponed a visit to Kyiv until after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated on Jan. 20, Reuters reported on Jan. 6, citing four sources with knowledge of the trip. According to the sources who spoke to Reuters, the new date has not yet been set, and it was not immediately clear as to why the trip was postponed. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously confirmed to journalists in Brussels on Dec. 19 that Kellogg would visit Ukraine before Trump's inauguration in January, according to a Kyiv Independent reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi said on Dec. 20 that Ukraine and the U.S. had initially reached a preliminary agreement on the date of a visit to Kyiv by Kellogg although that date was never publicly revealed. Reuters reported on Dec. 18 that Kellogg planned to visit Kyiv and several European capitals before Trump takes office on Jan. 20 as part of the new administrations effort to address Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. Sources confirmed on Jan. 6 that Kellogg remains committed to visiting other European capitals, including Rome and Paris. Kellogg, a former national security advisor to Vice President Mike Pence, is a known figure to Ukraine and "has maintained close ties... in recent years" with Kyiv, Tykhyi said on Nov. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has pledged to quickly bring an end to the war but has not provided details on how he plans to do it. Zelensky recently 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 strikes 3 Russian air defense systems in single day; 3,800 North Korean troops killed, injured in Kursk Oblast Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. NBN Co reports that it has begun harnessing power from a wind farm as it makes progress in driving down carbon emissions. The company that has operated the National Broadband Network since 2009, has begun receiving renewable electricity through a six-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with AGL. Under the agreement, nbn says it is purchasing the equivalent of around 90 GWh (Gigawatt hours) per year of renewable energy to be supplied to the grid and the associated renewable energy certificates generated by Macarthur Wind Farm, which is located 16 km east of Macarthur, between Hamilton and Warrnambool in south-western Victoria - and consists of 140 wind turbines with a capacity of 420 MW. On average over the last 10 years, the wind farm generated over 910,000 MWh of renewable energy annually, enough to power approximately 171,000 average Australian households each year. With this PPA now in operation, nbns commitment to 100 per cent renewable electricity purchases from December 20251 has taken a significant step forward nbns renewable electricity purchase commitment also includes a solar farm at West Wyalong in the Riverina area of New South Wales, which was constructed following nbns first PPA a 10-year agreement where the company has contracted to take approximately 90 GWh per annum, or around 62 per cent of the expected power generated by the solar farm In November 2023, nbn signed its third PPA a 10-year agreement that is enabling the construction of a new solar farm at Munna Creek, near Gympie, in south-east Queensland. Under the third PPA, nbnhas contracted to take approximately 59 Gigawatt hours (GWh) per year or more than 20 per cent of the expected power generated by the 467 hectare solar farm. NBN Co says the Munna Creek solar farm is anticipated to be operational in the second half of 2025 and will include approximately 255,000 solar panels, and electricity generated from this solar farm is expected to be enough to power the equivalent of 41,000 Australian homes. nbn says its target of 100 per cent renewable electricity purchases from December 20251 is underpinned by membership of the RE100, a global renewable electricity initiative comprising more than 400 of the worlds largest businesses. nbn was the first Australian telecommunications company and first Australian Government Business Enterprise to join RE100. The company has also set near-term science-based emissions reduction targets2, which have been validated by the SBTi3, and are: Reducing absolute Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions by 95 per cent by FY30 from a FY21 base year. Reducing Scope 3 Use of Products GHG emissions by 60 per cent per new device sold by FY30 from a FY21 base year. 80 per cent of suppliers by spend covering Purchased Goods and Services, Capital Goods and Downstream transportation and distribution, will have science-based targets by FY27. NBN Co is committed to setting long-term emissions reduction targets and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 (or sooner). The company expects to submit its long-term emissions reduction targets to the SBTi for validation shortly. Stephen Smith, Executive General Manager, Safety, Wellbeing and Sustainability at NBN Co, said: The nbn network is a significant consumer of electricity and the commencement of the PPA for renewable electricity from the Macarthur Wind Farm is an important milestone for us in meeting our target of 100 per cent renewable electricity purchases from December 2025. Expanding the use of renewable energy sources, investing in energy efficiency including deployment of fibre and exploring innovative solutions will help us drive down our emissions and operating costs. We have a responsibility to operate sustainably, enabling long-term social, economic and environmental value for customers and for the nation. In doing so, we remain committed to operating a climate-resilient resource efficient-network and business, aligned with the latest climate science, which protects the natural environment. Footnotes 1. https://www.nbnco.com.au/corporate-information/media-centre/media-statements/nbn-co-announces-100-percent-renewable-electricity-target-and-towards-zero-carbon-ambition 2. Corporate Plan | nbn 3. https://sciencebasedtargets.org/companies-taking-action Herb Baumeisters macabre double life began to unravel in 1994 when his 13-year-old son found a human skull and a pile of bones in the woods of Fox Hollow Farm, his $1 million estate in Westfield, Ind. Baumeister, who owned a string of thrift stores, had an easy explanation for the chilling discovery: The bones came from a skeleton his late father, an anesthesiologist, obtained in medical school, PEOPLE reported in 1996. Two years later, Baumeister, 49, was faced with many more questions when police unearthed thousands of human bones and bone fragments at the estate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The day after police made the grisly discovery, Baumeister vanished. Eight days later, he was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a park in Canada. Investigators would soon learn that Baumeister was likely one of the most prolific serial killers in Indiana history, one believed to have hunted his prey in gay bars while his wife and three children were away at the familys lake house. In 2022, Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison said in a press release that investigators believe the 10,000 human bones and fragments police found at Baumeisters property in the 1990s could be comprised of the remains of 25 victims. That same year, Jellison launched a renewed effort to identify some of the suspected serial killers victims, this time using advances in DNA technology including genetic genealogy, the Associated Press reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jellison and his team are still seeking DNA samples from relatives of men who vanished in the mid 1980s and mid-1990s, CBS News and the AP report. The team compares those samples to DNA profiles scientists piece together from the mostly charred remains found at Baumeisters 18-acre property, according to ABC News and the AP. The team has received about 40 DNA samples submitted by people who believe their missing male relatives may have been one of Baumeisters victims, Jellison said, the AP reports. Related: Indiana Father Had 10,000 Fragments of Human Remains on His Property. Police Are Still IDing Victims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baumeister is suspected of killing at least 12 men in the early 1990s and hiding their bodies on his property, NBC 5 Chicago reports. He is also suspected of the murders of at least 11 boys and men that authorities had believed were victims of the I-70 Strangler, a notorious serial killer whose identity remains a mystery, according to NBC 5 Chicago. Who Were Baumeister's Victims? In 2022, Jellison announced that he was launching an initiative to try to identify the remains of the victims. In May 2024, he identified one of the victims as Jeffrey Jones, of Fillmore, Ind., who was reported missing in 1993 and whose remains were recovered in 1996 from Fox Hollow Farm, according to a release from the Hamilton County Coroners Office. INDIANAPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT Jeffrey A. Jones and Herb Baumeister Jeffrey A. Jones and Herb Baumeister Jones was the third victim to be identified from Jellisons renewed investigation into the more than 10,000 remains recovered at Fox Hollow Farm, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because many of the remains were found burnt and crushed, this investigation is extremely challenging; however, the team of law enforcement and forensic specialists working the case remain committed, the release said. In October 2023, Jellison announced that the team had identified another Baumeisters presumed victims, Allen Livingston, according to the AP. Livingston's sister, Shannon Doughty, told the AP she was relieved to find out what had happened to her older brother. Just knowing, its a multitude of emotions, she said. You wanted to know but you didnt want to know. But you needed to know. Relatives of missing men who want to provide family DNA reference samples for the effort to identify remains can contact the Indiana State Police missing persons hotline at 833-466-2653 or the Hamilton County Coroners Office at 317-770-4415. Read the original article on People New Delhi Indian officials have confirmed the vast nation's first cases of human metapneumovirus, often called HMPV, with seven people said to have contracted the virus as of Tuesday, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research. Two of the HMPV infections were reported in the central Indian city of Nagpur on Tuesday, while two cases were reported in cities of Bengaluru, and one each in Ahmedabad, Chennai and Salem on Monday. The cases include a three-month-old girl who tested positive for HMPV on Monday. Another case involved an eight-month-old boy who tested positive for both HMPV and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in people of all ages. Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are the most at risk for serious illness from the virus. According to the CDC, symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. A boy receives nebulizer treatment in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India, Jan. 7, 2025, as the Indian Council of Medical Research confirmed the country's first cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). / Credit: Firdous Nazir/NurPhoto/Getty HMPV infections are reportedly surging in China, drawing interest around the world, but Dr. Carla Garcia Carreno, director of infection prevention and control at the Children's Medical Center Plano in Texas, told CBS News this week that there was no concern over a potential new pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This has been circulating for a while, so people have some immunity," she said, adding that the virus was fairly stable, unlike the COVID-19 virus that mutates often, making it harder to fight. India's federal government asked states on Monday to step up surveillance of respiratory illnesses and spread awareness about how to prevent the transmission of HMPV. Preventive measures include covering the mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing, frequent handwashing, and wearing masks in crowded places. "Health experts have clarified that the HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world for many years," Indian Health Minister J. P. Nadda said Monday. "The health systems and surveillance networks of the country are vigilant and there is no reason to worry." Nadda said the people infected in India had no recent travel history and that the government was "closely monitoring the situation in China and neighboring countries." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Health Ministry also said the HMPV infections were "no cause of concern," as there has been no unusual surge in respiratory illnesses detected in the country, and it noted that India was well prepared for any surge should it occur. "The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own," the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. Health agencies, such as the United Nations' World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have not voiced any concern over the HMPV infections in Asia. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Jimmy Carter's casket arriving at U.S. Navy Memorial JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) Indonesia's government said it agreed with Japan on Tuesday to resume talks on the joint development of naval vessels that have stalled in recent years. Visiting Japanese Defense Minister Gen. Nakatani discussed ways to deepen a defense partnership with his Indonesian counterpart, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, in a meeting Tuesday and agreed to continue negotiations on joint development of naval ships and other military equipment and on technology transfer, Defense Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Frega Wenas said. In principle, both defense ministers welcomed cooperation on promoting military equipment, Wenas said. Of course, it needs to be explored further where the joint development would occur and whether it would involve ships or other defense equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Japan is unable to export finished frigates or submarines under its current guidelines on transfer of defense equipment and technology, and it is believed that joint development is the most feasible way to make transfers. Japanese media said Nakatani, who arrived in Jakarta on Sunday for an Indonesia-Japan defense ministerial meeting, would present a proposal for joint development of destroyers that stalled in recent years. The Japanese government is envisioning frigates based on its Monogami class design, in which President Prabowo Subianto earlier showed interest when he was defense minister. The ships can be operated by a crew of about 90, half the number of conventional destroyers. However, negotiations stalled under former President Joko Widodo as the Indonesian government invested huge amounts in the relocation of its capital, Japan's Kyodo News agency reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tokyo has also proposed joint development of Monogami class frigates with Australia and Germany, and Canberra is expected to make a final decision on the partnership in the second half of this year. Nakatani declined to comment to the media after his meeting with Sjamsoeddin. He said in a statement ahead of the talks that he hoped to deepen defense engagement with Southeast Asias largest economy. Southeast Asian countries are in a strategically important region and occupy key points on our sea lanes, Nakatani said, I would like to take this visit as an opportunity to further develop our cooperative relationship with Indonesia. Japan's Defense Ministry said in a statement Tuesday that the two ministers agreed to establish consultations on mutual maritime security, including defense equipment and technology cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense is considered to be one of Subiantos priorities. He wants to strengthen the military by buying submarines, frigates and fighter jets and plans to increase defense cooperation with other countries. Nakatani is to pay a courtesy call on Subianto before returning to Tokyo on Wednesday. His visit is also expected to help lay the groundwork for a meeting between Subianto and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba later this week. ___ Associated Press journalist Haruka Nuga in Bangkok contributed to this report. TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) An inmate has died after an assault at the United States Penitentiary (USP) in Terre Haute. According to a media release, the assault happened on Monday, January 6, at approximately 7:30 p.m. The release states, Responding employees initiated life-saving measures. Emergency medical services (EMS) were requested while life-saving efforts continued. Indiana State Police is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday evening near Perrysville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 54-year-old Charles Lee Smoot was pronounced dead by EMS personnel. A second individual was medically assessed and treated for minor injuries at the facility. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has been notified. No employees or other incarcerated individuals were injured and at no time was the public in danger. The release states, Mr. Smoot was a 54-year-old male sentenced in the District of Columbia to an aggregate 96-month sentence for Bank Robbery and a Supervised Release Violation. He had been in custody at USP Terre Haute since September 25, 2024. USP Terre Haute is a high-security facility. 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 MyWabashValley.com. Arizona has carried out most executions with lethal injection since 1992, but with a litany of changing protocols and problems, which ultimately halted executions in the state for eight years. Photo courtesy Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry Death by lethal injection looks like the condemned person just went to sleep. But looks can be deceiving. Anesthesiologists know that an overdose of pentobarbital, the barbiturate used for executions by lethal injection in Arizona and other states, renders the prisoner unresponsive but not necessarily fully anesthetized before it kills by flash pulmonary edema. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The drug causes part of the heart to fail, makes the brain obstruct breathing and floods the lungs with fluid. Autopsies show that the lungs of prisoners executed with pentobarbital are two to three times heavier than normal. In short, the prisoner drowns in his or her own body fluids, which one expert told the federal courts in a 2019 deposition is one of the most powerful, excruciating feelings known to man. Lethal injection was once thought to be the least painful, most humane form of execution. Now, experts liken it to waterboarding, a form of torture considered too cruel to use in wartime. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be specific, eight of the 27 autopsies cited in that 2019 deposition were of men executed in Arizona. Aside from problems inserting IV catheters in some of the executions, there were no apparent signs reported of what the anesthesiologist called outward calm, inner terror. On Monday, Virginia law professor Corinna Barrett Lain filed an amicus curiae, or friend of the court brief, advocating for condemned Arizona prisoner Aaron Gunches, who doesnt want anyone advocating for him. Gunches is on Death Row for the 2002 murder of Ted Price, his girlfriends ex-husband, and he has repeatedly petitioned the courts to go forward with his execution, saying he would rather be dead than rot in prison. On Tuesday, the Arizona Supreme Court is supposed to set a briefing schedule that will likely lead to a death warrant so that Gunches execution can go forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 30, Gunches, who is representing himself in the case, filed a handwritten motion asking the court to forgo the formality of briefing and just set an execution date to have his Long Overdue Sentence carried out. Gunches asks this court why is AG (Kris) Mayes motion necessary? he wrote. It is pointless and just more foot dragging by the state. In a response filed Monday, Mayes office held firm on the formality of briefing. But Lain argues in her brief that Gunches may not know what he is in for. Arizona is asking for a death warrant, and Mr. Gunches apparently agrees, she said in an interview with the Arizona Mirror. But the interests at stake when a state kills its citizens in your name, and mine are larger than those of the parties. One might very well support the death penalty and oppose executions in the name of expediency that inflict a torturous death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lain is a former prosecutor and a professor at the University of Richmond School of Law. She spent seven years researching lethal injection for her book, Secrets of the Killing State: The Untold Story of Lethal Injection, which will be published in April. Her amicus brief covers the pain likely inflicted by pentobarbital overdose (a subject that has not yet been litigated in Arizona), the history of troublesome and botched executions in the state and Gov. Katie Hobbs sudden dismissal of an independent investigation into the states execution processes in favor of a report the Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry conducted on itself. Whether Lains argument will sway the justices or Gunches remains to be seen. Gunches is adamant that he would rather die, and he almost succeeded once. In 2022, then-Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich, who had already overseen the executions of three prisoners in the last year of his tenure while running for U.S. Senate, obtained a death warrant for Gunches. But he didnt have enough time in his term for the execution to take place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Hobbs became governor and Mayes became attorney general in January 2023, they let the warrant run out and appointed David Duncan, a retired federal magistrate judge, to evaluate the states troubled lethal injection protocol. Lain starts her brief with Mayes remarks at the time. I dont think its a secret that we inherited one of the worst, most incompetent and most ill-funded Department of Corrections in the country, as Mayes told the media. I dont think it takes a leap to suggest that we should understand whether they are capable of carrying out the death penalty before we do it. Indeed, there had been botched executions, repeated difficulties in setting IV lines, instances in which the Corrections department tried or succeeded in importing drugs illegally from other countries and failures to be transparent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that brave new administration, executions were put on hold, indefinitely. Or so it seemed. But Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell intervened, asking the Arizona Supreme Court to let her carry out the death warrant, so that justice could go forward, even though the state constitution reserves that job for the AG. Nonetheless, after two years of back and forth, the high court was willing to entertain arguments on the matter. In December, Duncan, the independent investigator, sent a summary of his preliminary findings to Hobbs and was summarily fired. In a preamble of sorts to his unfinished draft report, he listed all the reasons the death penalty is impractical expense, long waits, exonerations but then gets to the matter at hand: the disaster that is lethal injection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the findings, as Lain points out, were Corrections officials seeking to learn on the eve of an execution what doses of lethal drugs to administer from Wikipedia. Thats outrageous. Pharmaceutical companies will not supply drugs for executions, so corrections departments have to have them custom-made or compounded. Lain adds, In 2023, (Corrections Director Ryan) Thornell went on record saying he had serious concerns about the qualification and competency of the compounding pharmacist and the process used to compound the current supply of lethal injection drugs. Today, the State tells Arizonas highest court not that it changed compounders, but that it changed its mind. The very same compounder that it had serious concerns about two years ago is now just fine. A completed report promised to be scathing, and Duncan even suggested that death by firing squad, as barbaric as it is, was less likely to be botched than lethal injection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ending of a life and overcoming that persons will and biological command to live is by nature a violent act in every case even lethal injection, he wrote in a parenthetical aside. Duncan suggested to reporters that he was fired after he asked about witnessing execution rehearsals conducted by Corrections staff, and after discovering that the executioners were paid tens of thousands of dollars in cash that the state was not reporting with proper tax documentation. Arizona has a long history of execution failures, Lain said. Against that backdrop, in 2023, the state promised to bring transparency and accountability to the execution process by conducting an independent review of its entire lethal injection process, but that review was terminated before the judge could complete it. But there had also been a political shift since the beginning of the Hobbs administration. Mayes settled with Mitchell and said executions would go forward under the aegis of her office. And Donald Trump, who had 13 federal prisoners executed during the last year of his first term, was coming back into office, already enraged about outgoing President Joe Biden commuting the death sentences of most of the prisoners on federal Death Row. Executions, after all, are one way that politicians prove to voters that they are tough on crime. It might have been awkward for Arizona to go forward with them after a particularly damning report commissioned during an earlier, more enlightened political moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, Hobbs offered up an assessment by Thornell, who assured her that the department he leads had improved its team and its control over the drugs it procures to carry out executions. This is a new team, a team that wasnt here in the past where we had botched executions, Hobbs told the media. And the whole point of doing the thorough review that has been done is to avoid that. Lain is not convinced. The initial draft summary prepared by the judge identified seriously problematic processes, Lain said. Instead, the state relies on a review it conducted of itself, and says trust us, everything is fine. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Senior Justice Department officials serving under Donald Trump's first administration may have violated federal law in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election by pushing for pandemic-related investigations that targeted states with Democratic governors, and then leaking private information about those investigations to friendly media outlets in a potential attempt to influence the election, according to a previously-undisclosed report from the Justice Department's internal watchdog. The inspector general's report, obtained by ABC News, concluded that for one of the officials -- a senior member of the department's public affairs team who the report said first hatched the alleged plan to leak investigative information -- "the upcoming election was the motivating factor." The report specifically pointed to a text message he sent in mid-October 2020, describing a proposed leak to a major New York-area tabloid about reviews of COVID-related deaths at nursing homes in New York and New Jersey as "our last play on them before [the] election" -- "but it's a big one," he added, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: How fierce Trump ally Kash Patel could help reshape the FBI or Justice Department The inspector general's report comes just weeks before Trump takes office again, after winning reelection two months ago in part by promoting questionable claims that the Biden administration had used the Justice Department to further its own political agenda. Last week, the inspector general's office released a brief and vague summary of its report, saying only that three former officials had violated Justice Department policies by leaking "non-public DOJ investigative information" to "select reporters, days before an election." The summary said the officials may have even violated the Hatch Act, a non-criminal law that prohibits federal employees from using their positions to engage in political activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The summary did not say when the alleged violations occurred or which election may have been implicated, but some of Trump's supporters and at least one major conservative media outlet claimed that it involved the Biden administration trying to harm Trump's most recent reelection bid. IG Report by ABC News Politics on Scribd The partially-redacted report, obtained by ABC News through a Freedom of Information Act request, shows otherwise. According to the report, in the summer of 2020, leaders of the DOJ's Civil Rights Division at the time pushed for reviews of government-run nursing homes in several states, looking to find any connections between deaths there and orders from governors directing nursing homes to accept COVID-positive patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late August 2020, when the Justice Department then sent letters to the governors of Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York seeking relevant data -- "despite having been provided data indicating that the nursing homes with the most significant quality of care issues were in other states" -- the Justice Department's public affairs office issued a press release about the move, the report said. Though the inspector general's office said it did not find evidence that any officials, even career officials, raised concerns at the time, the report said current and former officials more recently described the press release as "unusual and inappropriate." The report further details how over the next few months, leadership in the Civil Rights Division pressured officials in the department's Civil Division to send a letter to New York officials seeking data regarding COVID-19-related deaths in private nursing homes throughout the state, the report said. The Civil Division officials were reluctant to do so, but they ultimately complied because they were "led to believe" that the directive to make the investigative activity public was "coming from Attorney General [Bill] Barr," the report said. Then in October 2020, in the final weeks of the 2020 presidential campaign, the senior official with the Justice Department's Office of Public Affairs proposed his plan to leak information about the letter and other information about an investigation of state-run facilities in New Jersey, according to the report. 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) On Oct. 17, 2020, the senior public affairs official texted colleagues: "I'm trying to get [them] to do letters to [New Jersey and New York] respectively on nursing homes. Would like to package them together and let [a certain tabloid] break it. Will be our last play on them before election but it's a big one," according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A week before the election, on Oct. 27, 2020, the investigative information was provided to the New York-area tabloid, which published a story that night, accusing New York authorities of undercounting deaths in nursing homes, the report said. The inspector general's report noted that official statistics released at the time did in fact undercount the actual number of deaths. Nevertheless, "the conduct of these senior officials raised serious questions about partisan political motivation for their actions in proximity to the 2020 election," inspector general Michael Horowitz said in his report. "[T]he then upcoming 2020 election may have been a factor in the timing and manner of those actions and announcing them to the public," Horowitz added, concluding that the three officials violated the Justice Department's media contacts policy. Horowitz said his office has referred its findings to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel, which is tasked with investigating potential violations of the Hatch Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the Office of Special Counsel confirmed to ABC News that his office received the referral and is now reviewing it. The inspector general's report noted that Barr declined to be interviewed in connection with Horowitz's investigation. A representative for Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment from ABC News. Trump DOJ officials may have tried to influence 2020 election through media leaks: IG report originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Iowa Capitol on Jan. 10, 2024. (Photo by Kathie Obradovich/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Iowa Capital Dispatch on Tuesday marked the fifth anniversary of its launch on Jan. 7, 2020. I never imagined back then that we would be where we are today. Here are a few milestones: Iowa Capital Dispatch was the 10 th news site launched by States Newsroom, which is now the largest nonprofit, state-focused news organization in the country. States Newsroom now operates newsrooms in 39 states and partners with other nonprofit news organizations in the other 11 states. Since our launch, we have published nearly 10,400 stories. Many were reports readers could find nowhere else. Some, like Clark Kauffmans scoop in November 2020 about Tyson managers making bets on worker COVID-19 cases, made national and international news. The most-read story on our website, Nursing home administrator cited after man was locked outside overnight, illustrates some of the work Kauffman has done to single-handedly raise awareness of the horrific abuse and neglect taking place in some of Iowas nursing homes. Iowa Capital Dispatch was one of the first two digital media organizations admitted to the Iowa Newspaper Association. In 2023, we won the award for Best News Story, competing against the largest newspapers in the state: Iowa Newspaper Association Best News Story award in 2023: Towns drinking water contamination returns after testing ends. Our membership has grown from a few hundred subscribers who signed up for our free daily newsletter before our launch to about 10,500 today. But that is only a fraction of our readership, which includes more than 16 million pageviews on IowaCapitalDispatch.com and countless more who have read our stories republished by their community newspapers or broadcast stations. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Its part of our mission at Iowa Capital Dispatch and in States Newsroom to share our content for free with other media and its one of the things that I love most about working here. Community journalism for democracy is our motto and that work has never been more vital. We give local news organizations a few more tools to do what they do best cover important news in their communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anelia Dimitrova, who spent 23 years as executive editor for Waverly newspapers, said it best: What I think is most valuable about their coverage is that they keep focus on the issues at the state level and on important developments that smaller community news organizations do not have the capacity to cover, she told States Newsroom. The fact that the content is free for readers, and to news organizations interested in carrying it, is a great testament to their commitment to sharing their quality journalism, which ultimately benefits all. Their work is immensely valuable and deserves special recognition. Its a testament to the hard work of our staff Kauffman, Robin Opsahl, Brooklyn Draisey and Cami Koons and other talented reporters who helped build this organization from the ground up, including Perry Beeman, Linh Ta, Katie Akin and Jared Strong. I didnt dare to dream of how quickly Iowans and legacy media outlets would embrace a startup, online news outlet as a trusted source for accurate, objective reporting. But I am not at all surprised by how many Iowans still have an appetite for news about public policy, health care, agriculture and the environment and education. Iowans have stepped up from the beginning to support our not-for-profit mission with donations that are vital to our work. Without our donors, we would not be where we are today. A special thanks for your generosity and commitment to supporting community news. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE DES MOINES, Iowa Four years later and the scene in Washington, D.C. looks drastically different with snow flurries, not election fury. On Jan. 6, 2025, the 2024 general election results were certified for the winner President-Elect Donald Trump. Members of Iowas congressional delegation discussed the day, and policy priorities moving forward. D.C. looks a little bit like Iowa right now, we were spared the snow but got cold weather. But in D.C. its looking like Iowa, thats probably going to be, you know, the most drama today, said Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R) IA-01 ahead of the certification process. Were looking forward to certifying the electors, as we know, this is a constitutional duty that we have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans early in the 119th Congress have been looking at a reconciliation bill that would encompass a lot of Trumps campaign promises; which also falls in line with a lot of the republicans who ran for office. I think whats most important is it signals that the work here has to get started immediately. We have a mandate, a historic mandate delivered not just from Iowans, but from Americans that we need to get to work on securing our border, reducing taxes and regulations and making sure were writing the direction of the country, said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R) IA-02. So, making sure we have those electoral votes for President Trump today was very important. LifeServe partners with Iowa COPS for Blue Blood Week Congressman Zach Nunn from Iowas Third Congressional District told WHO 13 News on Sunday that there were meetings over the weekend to outline the issues for the reconciliation package. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We worked throughout this weekend to make sure that we had really teed up key priorities that were deliverable. First and foremost, we are looking at a reconciliation bill, one that President Trump is very much in favor of that prioritizes border security, said Congressman Nunn (R). Trump has discussed the potential pardoning of just under 1,600 people federally charged with their actions on Jan. 6, 2021. Hinson and Miller-Meeks both talked about those potential pardons on Monday. I think President Trump is certainly entitled to make that decision. I want to make sure that the Capitol is a safe place for everyone to come and see their representatives. It should be representative government. What I think is also important in this bigger discussion is the safety in D.C., said Rep. Hinson. So, I think its up to the president to pardon who they ascertain. But a lot of us feel that the penalties and the sentencing was much beyond what would happen for someone breaking and entering and that you had seen. So, I think that its up to the president to do that, said Rep. Miller-Meeks. Iowa News: 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. Coming-of-Age Day ceremony (Courtesy photo) Becoming an adult is an important milestone in most cultures, and in Japan it is celebrated on Seijin-no Hi, or Coming-of-Age Day, the second Monday of January (Jan. 13 this year). While the rite of passage, like it did before the pandemic, is making its way back, there has recently been a major change in its social context. Effective April 1, 2022, the Civil Code regards 18 years of age as the start of adulthood in Japan. Prior to that, the age of adulthood was set at 20. The Ministry of Justice explains that the change was intended to respect the right of decision of those 18 and 19 years of age, and to encourage their participation in the society. Although this change enabled young men and women at such ages to rent an apartment or to have a credit card without consent of their parents, they still need to wait until turning 20 before consuming alcohol or betting on horse races. The same goes for their participation in a coming-of-age ceremony. In many municipalities in Okinawa as well as on the mainland Japan, ceremonies on January 13 will continue to be targeted to those at 20 years of age. That means 18- and 19-year-old youths still are on the waiting list to get invited unless they were born before April 2 in 2005. Nonetheless, you will most likely see many young adults in suite and tie or kimono celebrating their adulthood. The ceremony may leave behind some new adults outside the party venue, but the reason for this occasion is expected to remain the same: to mark Japans young men and women becoming legal adults. With the recent change taking effect, in Japan, starting at the age of 18, young men and women are subject to the laws and social responsibilities that bind adults. Regarding participation in politics, they will need several more years of maturing before running for a public office. The minimum age for a congressman and mayor is 25; it is 30 for a senator and governor. The purpose of this holiday is to congratulate and encourage young men and women who attain the legal age of adulthood to fulll their new-found responsibilities and become self-reliant members of society, said Masahiko Uchino, of the National Cabinet Ofces holiday section. The number of new adults has been decreasing in recent years due to Japans shrinking birthrate. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication, the number of new adults (age 18) as of January 1, 2024 is 1.06 million (550,000 men and 520,000 women) a decrease of 60,000 from last year and less than half the 1976 peak of 2.76 million. The number of new adults (age 18) in Okinawa as of January 2024 is was 15,504. The birthrate was 8.7 newborns per 1,000 people in 2023, the highest among all 47 prefectures in the nation. Nothing new for Okinawa, which has been the prefecture with the highest birthrate for the past 50 years. The tradition of celebrating coming-of-age in the middle of January can be traced back to ancient times, although the national holiday was established for Jan. 15 in 1948. (In 1998, it was moved to the second Monday in January as part of Japans Happy Monday system, which moved several holidays to create three-day weekends.) Originally, coming-of-age was celebrated on or around Jan. 15 according to the old lunar calendar. Traditionally called koshogatsu (Small New Years), it was the day of the rst full moon of the year. It was considered right to celebrate coming-of-age in the beginning of year with festive atmosphere, Uchino said. Although there was no precise age that determined the onset of adulthood throughout Japans feudal era, it was usually celebrated when boys reached the age of around 15 and when girls reached about 13. The Meiji government set the legal age of adulthood for both sexes to 20 in 1876. Seijinshiki, or coming-of age ceremonies, are generally held the morning of the national holiday at local city ofces throughout the country. Those who turn 20 during the current school year, which runs from April 1 to March 30 the next year, attend. During the ceremony, heads of local government and guest speakers from various backgrounds give speeches and small presents are handed out to the new adults. On this day, young adults also often visit shrines or have parties with family and friends after the ceremony. In some Okinawan villages, such as Shiraho, Ishigaki City, new adults perform a dance to thank the villagers for their support. Although there will be some work to do to open the door to the 18 and 19 years old, Seijinshiki has been back in order, and the rite of passage continues in a manner to ensure the safety of others. Dressing the part in style (Coming-of-Age Day ceremony) For most of young women, Coming-of-Age Day and the related ceremony are an opportunity to dress up in their most formal clothes. Many don furisode, a style of kimono with long sleeves that hang down. The furisode is the most formal style of kimono worn by an unmarried woman in Japan. It is made of very fine, brightly colored silk, and is commonly rented or bought by parents for their daughters to wear to celebrate their coming-of-age. By wearing a furisode, a young woman signifies that she is both single and a legal adult, and thus available for marriage, since the garment may not be worn either until adulthood or after wedlock. In this sense, a furisode might be associated with the formal gowns worn by debutantes in the West. A full furisode set is very expensive, so it is usually borrowed from a relative or rented. Typically, a young woman rents a kimono, dresses up and has her hair styled at salon before having a formal photo shoot at a portrait studio to commemorate the occasion. This can easily cost 150,000 yen ($1,000) or more. Purchasing a new kimono set may cost more than 1,000,000 yen ($6,670). There are some young men who might wear a traditional dark kimono, called a haori (half-coat) and hakama (loose-legged pleated trousers) on this holiday. However, nowadays most of young men wear a Western suit and tie for the occasion. Ireland filed a declaration of intervention Monday in support of South Africas genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The decision comes after Irelands November Parliament motion and December Cabinet vote affirmed its stance that genocide is being perpetrated before our eyes by Israel in Gaza. Irelands intervention is based on the 77-year-old Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide adopted by the United Nations in 1948. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Africa accused Israel of killing Palestinians in Gaza, causing them serious bodily and mental harm, and inflicting on them conditions of life calculated to bring about their physical destruction. Ireland echoed those concerns, alleging that Israel is in violation of Articles I, II, III, IV, V and VI of the Convention and arguing that the war on Hamas has spawned a deadly impact on the Palestinian ethnic group. It is evident from the drafting history of the Convention that the term intent is not limited to the purpose of the perpetrator, but can also comprehend knowledge of the foreseeable consequence of the act committed, the government of Ireland asserted in the legal filing. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called the case meritless following South Africas original genocide claims that were first filed in December 2023. The United States has continued to support Israels efforts to recover hostages in the fight against Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long denied claims of genocide and signaled an effort to cut ties with Ireland last month by closing its embassy in the European nation after it recognized Palestine as a state, which it declared antisemitic. The actions and antisemitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the delegitimization and demonization of the Jewish state, along with double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel, Israels Foreign Minister Gideon Saar 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 The Hill. IRONDALE, Ala. (WIAT) The public relations officer for the Irondale Police Department has died following an accident Monday. Lt. Mark Meadows, who has been in law enforcement since 1992, was killed Monday morning after being hit by a car while directing traffic at an intersection near Church of the Highlands during its 21 Days of Prayer event. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Meadows was a veteran who served four years in the U.S. Army 3rd Ranger Battalion at Fort Moore. In addition to his work with the IPD, Meadows was also a firearm instructor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lt. Mark Meadows was a treasured member of our Irondale family for over 30 years, stated Irondale Mayor James Stewart Jr. He was a man of few words but always led by example and embodied the heart of a true public servant. Lt. Meadows will be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters at the Irondale Police Department, as well as by all of our City employees and citizens. 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. Irondale Mayor James Stewart, who knew Lt. Meadows for 20 years, said Meadows had a servants heart. He always put others first instead of himself, Stewart said. I could see how that could resonate with the other officers. Stewart said that despite Meadows tragic death, he and the city would lean on their faith to get them through this difficult time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to be able to let people know that even with this tragic event, God is still sovereign, he said. Hes still sitting on the throne, hes still in control of everything and we know that were going to be able to make it through this storm. As long as we have each other, we know that all is going to be well. The crash remains 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 CBS 42. JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel said on Tuesday pressure groups were pushing foreign courts to take action against Israelis over alleged war crimes in Gaza but described the actions as "propaganda activity" and said no warrants had been issued. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as a Hamas leader, Ibrahim Al-Masri, over alleged war crimes in Gaza. The warrants sparked outrage in Israel but also drew fears that similar warrants could be issued against Israelis who served in the military in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, an Israeli reservist on holiday in Brazil left the country after a Brazilian federal judge in Salvador ordered police to open an investigation into allegations that he had committed war crimes while serving with the military in Gaza. The Hind Rajab Foundation, the pro-Palestinian group which brought the action, says on its website it "focuses on offensive legal action against perpetrators, accomplices and inciters of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Palestine." The Belgium-based group, named after a Palestinian girl killed in Gaza last year, also said it had filed evidence of alleged war crimes with the ICC against 1,000 Israelis, including video and audio reports, forensic reports and other documentation. The ICC confirmed it had received a filing and said it would "analyse the materials submitted, as appropriate". Israel's foreign ministry offered assistance to the reservist singled out by the action but officials said the issue was not widespread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a phenomenon of very limited scope in numbers," foreign ministry director general Eden Bar Tal told reporters in Jerusalem, saying there had been no more than 10-12 cases since the beginning of Israel's campaign in Gaza 15 months ago. "There was no warrant issued in any of these cases. So it was, I would say, a relatively strong PR activity but with very low, very, very low - zero - in judicial results," he said. "We believe it's a lot of propaganda activity in general and it's sponsored by entities, a very low number of entities, that have direct connections to terrorist organizations," he said. Hind Rajab Foundation founder, Dyab Abou Jahjah, posts messages on the social media platform X promising to file legal action against Israeli soldiers and asking for help identifying them. He has also posted messages in support of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement, designated as a terrorist organization by many Western countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The case in Brazil attracted wide attention in Israel, underscoring fears that individuals beyond the government and military leadership could be drawn into the war crimes issue, particularly through social media posts. The Israeli military has warned reservists that they could face arrest abroad over alleged war crimes in Gaza, according to documents published by Israeli media. The left-wing Haaretz newspaper said complaints against IDF soldiers have been filed in South Africa, Belgium and France as well as Brazil. However, Rubens Becak, a law professor at the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil, said it was not always straightforward for third countries to respond to suits of this kind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Without specific legislation, it becomes very difficult for institutions such as the Federal Police to act in cases like this," he said. (Reporting by James Mackenzie, Stephanie Van Den Berg in The Hague, Ricardo Brito in Brasilia; Editing by Ros Russell) The Israeli military said early on Tuesday its Air Force attacked a group of armed "terrorists" in the West Bank. A fighter jet targeted the "terrorists" in the area of Tamun in the Jordan Valley, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on X. Details were not initially provided. On Monday, at least three Israelis were killed and eight other people injured in an attack in the northern West Bank, according to Israeli rescue workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. "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. 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. Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believe that the intensification of the Ukrainian defence forces' offensive in Kursk Oblast may indicate a new stage in the Ukrainian defence operation in Kursk, but ISW is not ready to make any predictions. Source: ISW Quote: "Ukrainian forces recently made tactical advances amid continued intensified offensive operations in the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast on 6 January. Geolocated footage published on 5 and 6 January indicates that Ukrainian forces recently advanced in southern Berdin, central Russkoye Porechnoye and central Novosotnitsky (all northeast of Sudzha)." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Russian milbloggers claimed on 6 January that Russian forces repelled a Ukrainian platoon-sized mechanised assault near Berdin and that Russian forces, including elements of Rosgvardia's "Talib" Group, repelled Ukrainian attacks near Novosotnitsky. Quote: "Russian milbloggers claimed that elements of the Russian 30th Motorised Rifle Regiment (72nd Motorised Rifle Division, 44th Army Corps, Leningrad Military District), 2nd Spetsnaz Brigade (Russian General Staff's Main Directorate), 11th Airborne Brigade and Akhmat Spetsnaz units cleared areas near Berdin and Novosotnitsky." One Russian millogger described recent Ukrainian attacks in Kursk Oblast as enhanced reconnaissance-in-force operations that could act as a diversionary effort for unspecified future operations. Quote: "Increased Ukrainian offensive operations in Kursk Oblast may be the beginning stages of a concerted Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast or elsewhere in the theatre, though ISW is unprepared to offer any specific forecast." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The assessment adds that Russian forces attempted to use Ukrainian attacks northeast of Suzha to launch offensives elsewhere in the areas of Ukrainian advance in Kursk Oblast on 6 January. However, ISW has not found confirmation of these claims. At the same time, the analysts suggest that Ukrainian forces may also be continuing long-range strikes on Russian rear areas in Kursk Oblast as part of an effort to utilise integrated strike capabilities to support ground operations. Meanwhile, ISW cannot independently verify whether this is the case. Quote: "ISW previously assessed that Ukrainian forces may be attempting to integrate longer-range precision strike capabilities and electronic warfare (EW) systems activity to support ground operations." To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 6 January: Ukrainian forces recently made tactical advances amid intensified offensive operations in the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast on 6 January. Russian forces attempted to exploit Ukrainian attacks northeast of Sudzha to launch operations elsewhere in the Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast on 6 January. Ukrainian forces may be continuing to conduct long-range strikes against Russian rear areas in Kursk Oblast as part of efforts to utilise integrated strike capabilities to support ground operations. Russian forces reportedly executed more Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) on 3 January. Ukrainian Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets announced that Ukraine and Russia have reached a preliminary agreement to conduct regular POW exchanges in 2025. The leaders of the Chechen Akhmat Spetsnaz forces and the far-right paramilitary unit Rusich Russian Sabotage Assault Reconnaissance Group met on 6 January and promoted a message emphasising Russia's ethnic diversity and harmony. Russian forces advanced on the Lyman, Toretsk and Pokrovsk fronts, and the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) claimed that Russian forces had seized Kurakhove. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in an interview published on 5 January that 3,800 North Korean personnel have been killed or wounded in Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! Jan. 7 (UPI) -- The mayor of an Italian village issued a proclamation banning residents from getting sick amid issues with local healthcare access. Mayor Antonio Torchia of Belcastro, Calabria, issued a proclamation ordering residents not to contract any serious illnesses that could lead to the need for emergency medical attention. Residents were also ordered to not engage in activities that could lead to serious injuries, and were advised to instead spend the majority of their time resting. Torchia later explained the proclamation was meant to be a tongue-in-cheek way to draw attention to the shortcomings of the local healthcare infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor said about half of the village's 1,200 residents are over the age of 65. The nearest emergency hospital is located nearly 30 miles away, and is only accessible via a road with an 18 mph speed limit. The village has an on-call doctor, but the service is not available during nights, weekends or holidays. Calabria is one of the poorest regions in Italy, and has seen 18 hospitals shuttered since 2009. Cube announced in 2022 that 497 doctors would be sent to Calabria over the course of three years to help staff the region's medical facilities. A man who made an art of living off the grid on a deserted Mediterranean island for more than 30 years has died at the age of 85, just three years after he returned to civilization. Mauro Morandi was nicknamed Robinson Crusoe by the media after being identified as the sole resident of Budelli island, an old World War II shelter off the Italian island of Sardinia. He prided himself on his solitary life. Morandi stayed on the island as its primary caretaker shortly after he shipwrecked his catamaran while attempting to sail to Polynesia in 1989 on a mission, he said, to escape consumerism and society as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As luck would have it, Budellis previous hermit caretaker was just about to retire, so Morandi took the job and lived alone in a house made of coral, granite and shells on the picturesque isle for three decades. He was evicted by Italian authorities in 2021 when the Italian state converted the island to a nature park. During his 32 years on the island, he kept the beaches clean and educated day-trippers about the islands ecosystem. Supplies were brought in as part of his job as a caretaker, and he configured a makeshift solar power system and heated his home with a simple fireplace. Starting over After his eviction, the state moved him to La Maddalena, an archipelago off Sardinia designated as a national park, where he lived in a one-bedroom apartment. Its never really over, Morandi told CNN in 2021 after leaving his island paradise. Im the living proof that a second, new life is possible. You can always start all over again, even if youre over 80, because there are other things you can experience, a totally different world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pleased with a taste of modernity, he remarked that post-hermit life suited him. Im happy and I have rediscovered the pleasure of living the good life and enjoying everyday comforts, he told CNN. Morandi entered a nursing home in the Sardinian city of Sassari after a fall last summer, according to Italian media reports. He later moved to the northern Italian city of Modena, where he was born and had worked as a physical education teacher until 1989. He is reported to have died over the weekend in Modena after his health deteriorated. In a loving Facebook tribute, his friends promised to scatter his ashes at sea. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is putting a stop to the illegal drug flow into the Duval County Jail. On Tuesday, JSO announced the arrest of Nathan Williams, a local criminal defense attorney. Williams is facing 8 felony charges. Investigators said he coordinated with inmates and their families to smuggle drug-laced legal paperwork into the jail in exchange for money. Those sheets were laced with synthetic marijuana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Forget what made St. Augustine special: Locals sounding alarm on plans to boost tourism year-round When it gets brought inside, it can either be smoked or it can be ingested as a way to get the chemicals inside the body, Mike McCormick with Florida Poison Control said. Florida Poison Control said it is a chemically-created drug. It does interact with the same receptors that normal THC would have on a person, McCormick said. So, you can a lot of time have that same sort of high that can come from it. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] And depending on whats inside, synthetic drugs can bring other issues and lead to overdose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It doesnt come through a quality control process where we are going to know what we are dealing with, McCormick said. You also have the potential that you could even have fentanyl go into a substance like this. Williams arrest is part of a long-term investigation called Operation Stamp Collection. Since February 2024, JSO has made 21 arrests related to smuggling or attempting to smuggle drugs into the jail. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] In 2023, there were 23 overdoses at the facility, and 9 in 2024. Action News Jax asked JSO how many of those were specifically synthetic marijuana and we were told the agency does not have that statistic and those numbers would come from the medical examiner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JSO said this is still an active investigation, and additional arrests are anticipated. You can watch JSO Undersheriff Shawn Coarsey discuss Williams arrest in the video below: 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 Jacksonville Sheriffs Office has arrested 27-year-old Davion Murphy for the murder of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< This is the fifth arrest connected to Charles Jones shooting death that happened in Tampa on June 23, 2024. Sandrikas Mays, Jones mother, said she is thankful for the arrest. Im thankful for the capture of 5 suspects that had involvement with the murder of my son Charles Jones II. I never once did not believe that those responsible wouldnt be caught. Im forever grateful, Mays said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ: UPDATE: 4 arrested, 1 still wanted in the murder of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio According to a social media post, the arrest was a team effort between JSO SWAT, the Gang Unit, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Murphy was arrested on Monday night at an apartment on Labelle Street. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] This arrest highlights our commitment and perseverance to solving this murder, JSO Director of Investigations and Homeland Security Mark Romano said in the social media post. While it took some time, JSO and partners worked daily to hold these individuals accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four other arrests have previously been made: 21-year-old Isaiah Chance, 21-year-old Alicia Andrews, 18-year-old Sean Gathright, and 30-year-old Rashad Murphy. JSO said they have been working closely with the Tampa Police Department on the case. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Detectives interviewed Murphy and booked him into the Duval County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. The case is still ongoing. JSO said they will release more information when appropriate. 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. On Monday, as Congress certified the results of the 2024 election, confirming that Donald Trump had won, Jake Tapper called out the attempts by the GOP to whitewash the Jan.6 attack on the Capitol four years ago a tactic the CNN anchor actually predicted on the air at the time. The footage from 2021 shows mob violence, including breaking windows and a Capitol Police offer screaming in pain, as well as Tappers prophetic words: I want people out there to remember how they feel right now as they watch these images live, because there is going to be an attempt by the people who were part of this effort, President Trump, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senator Ted Cruz, Senator Hawley, etc. There is going to be an attempt to whitewash whats going on right now. Tapper also reminded viewers in the immediate aftermath of the attack, Republican leaders, including Kevin McCarthy, condemned it. McCarthy took to the floor of the House to say that Trump bears responsibility. But now, of course, Mr. Trump, the President-elect, calls January 6 a day of love.' Some in Congress still rewriting January 6 history Watch the video here: https://t.co/yJvWQLk4Bg pic.twitter.com/x93kxMdcnI The Lead CNN (@TheLeadCNN) January 6, 2025 The anchor went on to read aloud a social media post from Republican Congressman Mike Collins of Georgia, which he referred to as alternate histories, alternate realities about what happened that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins, who shared a comparatively peaceful photo from 2021 to X, claimed that the assault on the Capitol and the attempt to stop the 2020 election from being certified was merely 1000s of peaceful grandmothers gathered in Washington, D.C. to take a self-guided, albeit unauthorized tour of the U.S. Capitol building. He explained the photo that showed one man filming or taking photos inside the building, with some individuals entered the Capitol, took photos and explored the building before leaving. That is not an accurate description of what happened here, at least here on planet Earth, said Tapper. He noted that while there were some peaceful protestors among the Trump supporters that day, that doesnt excuse that assaults on law enforcement officers. That is the reality of January 6, 2021. More than 600 people have been charged with assaulting or obstructing police in that effort to undermine the free and fair election of 2020, Tapper continued. He added that Trump has promised to grant presidential pardons to Capitol Rioters in the first hour of his second term. 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 pic.twitter.com/qPc5SdgBqp Rep. Mike Collins (@RepMikeCollins) January 6, 2025 The post Jake Tapper Calls Out Republican Alternate Reality of Jan. 6 as a Peaceful Protest | Video appeared first on TheWrap. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) A settlement deal between the City of Johnson City and plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit against the city and police officers remains on the table despite the City Commission tabling consideration and a vote on Jan. 2. Johnson City 8th graders write research papers on Hurricane Helene A Jan. 3 court filing in the so-called Jane Does suit, signed off on by both sides, requests a 21-day stay on various pending filing deadlines and states the parties are continuing to engage in settlement negotiations. The stipulation, which promises an update on talks no later than Jan. 21, was filed the same day Johnson City City Manager Cathy Ball met with city employees to inform them on the litigations status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit, which plaintiffs have requested be expanded to a class-action, alleges that police essentially overlooked Sean Williams alleged drugging and raping of women in his downtown apartment between at least 2019 and 2021. The suits claims range from obstructing enforcement of human trafficking statutes and aiding and abetting Williams to violating victims rights to due processand engaging in an unconstitutional pattern and practice of handling the cases of women reporting sexual assault. Lawyers for plaintiffs have claimed in hearings and written in filings that they believe at least two officers received financial benefits as part of an alleged conspiracy to protect what they say amounted to a human trafficking operation. Sides in JCPD/Jane Doe lawsuit in settlement talks Johnson City and other defendants have denied all claims in the suit, which was filed in June 2023. Former Johnson City Police Chief Karl Turner and officers Toma Sparks and Jeff Legault are currently plaintiffs in addition to the city. The plaintiffs have requested in a third amended complaint that former Capt. Kevin Peters and officer Justin Jenkins both of whom were dismissed from the case in August be added back as defendants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The talks outcome could be revealed by Jan. 21. Both sides pledge in Fridays filing to update the court by then, advising on the status of the settlement and proposal for revised case deadlines as appropriate based on that status. Consideration of a settlement was on the commissions agenda Jan. 2, but commissioners pulled the item at the beginning of the meeting after learning during an executive session earlier that day that a final deal was not ready. At the commission meeting an attorney for the city, Tom Seeley, said it was unknown when or if commissioners would ever receive a proposal for consideration. Williams, who was arrested in North Carolina in 2023, has been convicted of three counts of enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purposes of manufacturing child pornography. Authorities have also said that evidence on computer drives shows videos and photos of the now 53-year-old Williams sexually assaulting more than 60 different women who appear in the videos and images to be unconscious. The city faces a related federal lawsuit filed in June 2022 by former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Kat Dahl. Dahl, who worked from 2019 to 2021 helping prosecute federal drug and weapons cases, claims Turner didnt renew the citys contract with the U.S. Attorneys Office for her services in retaliation for her pressing police to more aggressively investigate Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city has also denied all claims in that suit, which currently is set for trial in April. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7 (UPI) -- A formal ceremony heralded the start of the Japan's sumo wrestling season at the Meiji Jingu shrine on Tuesday, two months after a U.S. man was arrested for desecrating it. Japanese grand sumo champion Yokozuna Terunofuji and two other sumo wrestlers formally opened the 2025 sumo wrestling season during an annual sumo ritual held at the Meiji Jingu shrine in Tokyo. The sumo grand champion performed the traditional ring purification ceremony, which has been performed at various locations annually since at least the late 1800s but now is conducted at the Meiji Jingu shrine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine and located in a forested area in the heart of Tokyo. The shrine was established in 1920 to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who are considered the founders of modern Japan. Grand sumo champion Yokozuna Terunofuji wears the coveted tsuna, which signifies he is Japan's grand sumo champion, while performing the Shiranui-style entering ceremony for the new year's dedication at the Meiji Jingu shrine in Tokyo on Tuesday. Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI The shrine is significant in Japanese culture and annually hosts thousands of Japanese visitors on New Year's Eve, followed by the annual ceremony to start Japan's sumo wrestling season. More than 3,000 visitors prayed for good luck in the coming new year at the Meiji Jingu shrine on New Year's Eve. Thousands attend the ceremony that heralds the annual start of Japan's sumo wrestling season and features the grand sumo champion, two other sumo wrestlers and a referee. Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI Meiji Jingu officials said the shrine usually is packed with worshipers during the first three days of the year and advise tourists to consider when to visit the shrine during its peak congestion times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 65-year-old U.S. citizen named Steven Lee Hayes on Nov. 14 was accused of defacing the shrine's entry gate. Grand sumo champion Yokozuna Terunofuji answered reporters' questions after performing the ring-entering ceremony for the new year's dedication at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo on Tuesday. Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI Japanese authorities accused Hayes of using his fingernails to scratch his initials in the wooden torii gate and possibly at another location after traveling with his family on a sightseeing trip to Japan. Jean-Marie Le Pen, the far-right politician who founded Frances National Front party, has died, according to local reports. He was 96. Le Pen has been in a care facility for several weeks, and died at today surrounded by his loved ones, the BBC reported quoting his family. More from Deadline Born in 1928, he became one of Frances most divisive and influential political figures of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Le Pen attempted to become French President five times. He reached a run-off against the incumbent, Jacques Chirac, in 2002, but was soundly defeated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pen founded the National Front, now known as Rassemblement National, in 1972 and led the party until his resignation in 2011. His daughter, Marine Le Pen, succeeded him, and has also attempted to run for President several times since and turned the party into one of the most influential in France. The elder Le Pen was known for his brash, charismatic speeches and provocative and incendiary opinions on immigration, the European Union, culture and traditionalism, and religion, especially around faiths such as Islam and Judaism. He was fined for calling the gas chambers used by Nazis to kill Jews during World War II a detail in history, and was a known Holocaust denier. He angered many in Hollywood in 2012 by slamming Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakaches French film The Intouchables, likening a progressive, multicultural France to the disabled lead character, played by Francois Cluzet. The film follows a wealthy, physically disabled risk taker and recent widow, whose world is turned upside down when he hires a young, good-humored, black Muslim ex-con, played by Omar Sy, as his caretaker. Le Pen fell out with his daughter after she took over the National Front and attempted to soften the partys far-right image, but remained Honorary President until 2015 when he was finally expelled. Despite his views and reputation among his opponents as the Devil of the Republic, his brand of nationalism and populism won him many supporters. He is considered by many to be a forebear of todays right-wing leaders such as Donald Trump. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of Frances far-right party Front National, has died. He was 96. His family confirmed the news in a statement sent to the AFP and said he died surrounded by his loved ones. One of Frances best known and most controversial political figures, Le Pen led the Front National Party from 1972 to 2011 and ran for president five times. He got close to winning during the 2002 presidential election when he beat socialist candidate Lionel Jospin in the first round to face Jacques Chirac in the second round. The latter ended up winning the election with a 82% vote which reflected Le Pens highly polarizing profile and the French peoples visceral reaction to his racist and xenophobic rhetoric. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pen, a former French Foreign Legion paratrooper who served during Algerias war for independence and was accused of torturing detainees, embodied a radical far right. He was sued and fined many times over the course of his career for denying crimes against humanity, going as far as calling the Holocaust a mere detail in the history of World War 2 and praising Frances Vichy government which collaborated with the Nazis, claiming it wasnt responsible for the deportation of Jews. Le Pens daughter, Marine Le Pen stepped in as president of the Front National party in 2011 and eventually ousted him in 2015 as she proceeded to rebrand the party to Rassemblement National with a more populist messaging. Marine Le Pens notoriously clashed with her father over his incendiary comments which worked against her efforts to broaden the appeal of her nationalistic and populist party. Her strategy has paid off as the Rassemblement National has gained tremendous ground in the last 10 years and has also been given unprecedented exposure in mainstream French media. Le Pens party made historical gains in June when it dominated the European elections by a landslide with 31.5% of votes, and later during the parliamentary elections when it emerged with an increased presence in the National Assembly. The Rassemblement National is expected to play a pivotal role in the next presidential election in 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pen was meant to stand trial with his daughter Marine over embezzlement allegations but was excused from attending court for health reasons last July. His grand-daughter, Marion Marechal, is also a well-known far right figure in France and founded her own party, Identite-Liberte, in October 2024. He is survived by his second wife Jeanne-Marie Paschos and three daughters from his first marriage, Marie-Caroline, Yann and Marine. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Jean-Marie Le Pen, founder of the French right-wing nationalist party formerly known as the National Front, has died aged 96, news agency AFP reported on Tuesday, citing Le Pen's family. The head of the party, now renamed National Rally, Jordan Bardella, also wrote on X that Jean-Marie Le Pen had died. Le Pen, who was later expelled from the party, had in his final years mainly made headlines due to his ongoing political feud with his daughter Marine Le Pen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The right-wing populist broke politically with her father after he repeatedly thwarted her strategy of adopting a more moderate approach. Under her leadership, the party renamed and rebranded itself in 2018. Le Pen made the National Front prominent Jean-Marie Le Pen co-founded the far-right party in 1972 and led it for nearly four decades. During this time, he transformed it from a fringe group into a serious political force, using provocative statements to stir sentiment against immigrants. His daughter, Marine Le Pen, took over the party leadership in 2011 and has since successfully pursued a strategy of "detoxification" of the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party eventually expelled Jean-Marie Le Pen in 2015 after he repeatedly dismissed Nazi gas chambers as a mere "detail of history" of World War II. He fought back fiercely, accusing his daughter of "betrayal" and attacking her publicly on numerous occasions. He initially managed to retain the title of honorary chairman in court, but this was later revoked. Multiple convictions for inciting hatred Jean-Marie Le Pen was born in 1928 as the son of a Breton fisherman and a seamstress. After studying law and politics, he joined the French Foreign Legion. He was repeatedly accused of torturing prisoners during the 1954-62 Algerian War, which he denied. However, he lost a defamation lawsuit against the newspaper Le Monde in 2003. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was repeatedly convicted for downplaying Nazi crimes and inciting hatred. Jean-Marie Le Pen's biggest coup came when he placed second in the 2002 presidential election, facing Jacques Chirac in the run-off. France still refers to this as the "shock of April 21." His daughter achieved results in the 2022 elections with her efforts to present a moderate image that her father could only have dreamed of, garnering more than 40% in the final round of the presidential election and a significant increase in the party's parliamentary seats. Jean-Marie Le Pen,, the leader of the French Front National (FN) from 1972 to 2011, who has died aged 96, appeared for many years as a rumbustious, rackety and outrageous figure on the margins of French politics; in April 2002, he caused consternation when he emerged from the first round of the presidential election as the sole remaining challenger to Jacques Chirac. In fact Le Pen, with only 16.86 per cent of the vote, had performed only slightly better than in the election of 1995: the essential story of the poll was the decline of support for both President Chirac and his socialist opponent Lionel Jospin, and the division of that discontent among a raft of smaller parties. At the time, though, this did not diminish the alarm that a candidate of the extreme Right, with an openly discriminatory programme against immigrants, should have persuaded 4,804,713 voters to support him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pens appeal lay in his rejection of a political establishment which many voters felt was failing to engage with their concerns. His conviction that politicians, whether of the Left or the Right, were tous pourris, tous complices, tous lointaines (all rotten, all accomplices, all distant) found ready assent, particularly in the south and east of France. In the yawning gap between the age-old dream of la gloire de la France and the humdrum reality of the modern state, Le Pen found fertile ground for extremism. In particular he exploited the divisions caused by the failure of French society to integrate the Arab immigrants of the postwar years. Successive governments, he declared, had taken refuge in weasel words. The unemployed who believed that the newcomers had taken their jobs; Catholics who resented the proliferation of mosques in France; city dwellers who felt threatened by the growth of Muslim ghettos; victims of crime who complained that law enforcement had been sacrificed to political expediency: all these groups found in Le Pen an uninhibited spokesman. For the leader of the FN possessed formidable demagogic talents. Whatever his faults, Le Pen never lacked for courage. Quick-witted, if often crude and brutal in debate, and with a gift for mimicry and phrase-making, he revelled in lashing the politically correct. I say what others think, he proclaimed, but dare not put into words. With daughter Marine in 2010 at the party headquarters in Nanterre - JOEL SAGET/AFP/Getty Images As a speech-maker, prowling about the platform without a single note in hand, he could hold his supporters spellbound for hours on end. In private his genial ways and readiness for a laugh could disarm even avowed political opponents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was skilful, too, when he chose, in treading around the edges of political respectability in the manner of a bluff, no-nonsense patriot. What I resemble most, he told his audiences, is an ordinary Frenchman. The notion of racism, he preached, was being exploited as a doctrine that denies people the right to be themselves. Le Pen, though, could never keep up the pose of reasonableness. His relish for angry debate was all too clearly an adult emanation of the thuggish physical combativeness he had shown in his youth. He claimed not to be anti-Semitic, but could not resist remarking in 1987 that the Holocaust was a point de detail in the history of the Second World War. And in 1988 he dismissed a Jewish minister called Durafour with a sick pun on four, meaning oven: Durafour-crematoire. Nor was Le Pen convincing in his self-proclaimed role as guardian of French family life. His first marriage broke down with much bitterness in the 1980s. He had always preached that unemployment could be reduced if housewives were paid for staying at home; now he told his wife Pierrette to find some housework if she wanted money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pierrette riposted in 1987 by posing as a housemaid for Playboy, wearing an apron in front and nothing at all behind as she bent industriously over her dusting. For good measure she seized every opportunity to proclaim that at home Le Pen had been brutal, domineering and given to foul racist abuse. In 1965 - REPORTERS ASSOCIES/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images On the stump he preached that all illegal immigrants should be expelled, while in housing, jobs and welfare, preference should be given to French nationals. He also adopted an unlikely role as defender of French Catholicism, announcing, with copious reference to Joan of Arc and the Virgin Mary, that under his leadership no more mosques would sully the ground of the first daughter of the Church. Hardly better than Muslims were the victims of Aids. France, Le Pen declared, could not be organised as care-centre for les sidaiques. As for the constitution, he railed against the stranglehold which central government in Paris exerted over French life through the elite graduates of the Ecole nationale dadministration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He promised to lower taxes on income and agricultural land, and to abolish inheritance tax on the transfer of small businesses from father to son. To fight crime he would build 200,000 new prison cells and bring back the death penalty. Abortion, by contrast, would be banned. Internationally, Le Pen set himself hard against the European Community, promising to withdraw France from its clutches. As for the euro, it was simply la monnaie doccupation. In 2002 he contended that soon the president of France would have no more power than the governor of Nebraska. Predictably, too, he considered that America, indeed les anglo-saxons in general, posed an equally deadly threat to French interests and culture. Tariff barriers should be erected to protect France from the insidious effects of globalisation. Meanwhile, he claimed that the Americans were using satellites to spy on France, and that the dreaded Anglo-Saxons were threatening to undermine French agriculture with genetically modified crops. Le Pen gesturing during a press conference at the Strasbourg European Parliament on January 13 1985 - JEAN-CLAUDE DELMAS/AFP via Getty Images Certainly, Le Pen found an audience. Even before 2002 it was estimated that a quarter of the French population had voted for him at one time or another. Yet for all the furore in France after the first round of the 2002 presidential election, and the grave head-shaking of English gallophobes, there was never the least chance of Le Pen occupying the Elysee Palace. In the second round his score of 5,525,032 votes represented only 17.79 per cent of the vote. His outstanding achievement had been to gather votes for Chirac. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jean-Marie Le Pen was born on June 20 1928 at La Trinite-sur-Mer, near Vannes on the southern coast of Brittany. His father ran a number of fishing boats and was killed in 1942 when his vessel hit a mine which had been laid by the British. Jean-Marie won a scholarship to the Jesuit College in Vannes, where, he claimed, he was taught to think. Subsequently, however, his rough and violent ways resulted in his expulsion both from the lycee at Lorient and from a college in Vannes. He later studied politics and law at the University of Paris, returning in the vacations to work with Breton fishermen. He was already drawn to Right-wing politics, reacting strongly against the reverence accorded to Jean-Paul Sartre by so many of his university contemporaries. Where they disposed of the problems of the world in cafes, Le Pen preferred fisticuffs and coarse jokes. Nevertheless, in 1949 he became head of the association of law students in Paris. In 1951 Le Pen volunteered for the army, declaring that he could not bear to see France decline into decadence and communism. As a sub-lieutenant in the first battalion of paratroopers, he fought in Indochina and was awarded the Croix de la valeur militaire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in France, in January 1956 Le Pen was one of the 53 candidates elected to the Assemblee Nationale under the colours of Pierre Poujade, the leader of a nationalist movement which exploited the grievances of la petite bourgeoisie. Le Pen caught the required tone. You must be aware, he informed the Jewish Pierre Mendes-France, who had been prime minister in 1954-55, that your person provokes a kind of patriotic, almost physical repulsion. Unlike most of his fellow Poujadistes, Le Pen did not disappear after the return of General de Gaulle to French politics; rather, between 1958 and 1962 he remained in the Assemblee as independent deputy for the Seine. He still enjoyed a brawl, and in 1958 lost his left eye when he launched himself at the platform of a Left-wing meeting and was set upon by infuriated Marxists. Le Pen, right, with the populist politician Pierre Poujade - AP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the war in Algeria Le Pen returned to the military fray as a paratroop officer, responsible at times for the interrogation of prisoners. Years later, in 1987, he would successfully sue Le Canard enchaine and Liberation over accusations that he had used torture. After the loss of Algeria in 1962, Le Pen was conspicuous for the support he gave to the 1.38 million pieds noirs (Frenchmen born in Algeria) who found refuge in France. Having lost his seat in the Assemblee in 1962, in 1964-65 Le Pen organised the presidential campaign of Jean-Louis Tixier-Vignancour, a lawyer who had been passionately committed to Algerie Francaise and who had become a figurehead for the extreme Right in France. During the 1960s Le Pen led a company which sold records of French and for educational purposes Nazi marching songs. The collaborationist element was strong, too, among the supporters who joined Le Pen in 1972 to found Le Front National. As a candidate for the presidency in 1974 he won no more than 0.74 per cent of the vote, while in 1981 he was unable even to obtain the necessary sponsorship for his candidacy. That year the FN registered only 0.4 per cent in Frances legislative elections. In one respect, though, Le Pens prospects had improved: on the death of his friend Hubert Lambert in 1976, he inherited a fortune, and a house in St Cloud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not until the European Parliament elections of 1984 did the FN make a decisive breakthrough, registering 11.1 per cent of the vote and winning 10 seats, including one for Le Pen himself. Apart from a short break in 2003-04, he would remain a decidedly controversial member of the European Parliament until 2019. In 1986, President Mitterrand, spotting an opportunity to divide the French Right, inspired the introduction of proportional representation for elections to the Assemblee Nationale. This allowed the FN, with 9.8 per cent of the vote, to return 35 members. Jacques Chirac, who became prime minister in 1986, ended proportional representation, and in the legislative elections of 1988, the FN, with the same 9.8 per cent of the vote as in 1986, was reduced to only one depute. But the movement was now too well-established to be swept aside. In the presidential contest of 1988 Le Pen did better than ever before, winning 14.4 per cent of the vote. Le Pen lost his left eye when he launched himself at the platform of a Left-wing meeting and was set upon by infuriated Marxists - Alain Nogues/Sygma via Getty Other politicians of the Right now felt compelled to ape his appeal. In 1991 Jacques Chirac complained about the noise and smell of immigrants. Valery Giscard dEstaing, for his part, declared that only those with a blood right should qualify for French citizenship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet in the presidential election of 1995 the FN increased its share of the vote to 15 per cent. Soon afterwards the party gained control of Toulon, Orange and two suburbs in Marseille. Success, however, failed to diminish Le Pens brutish tendencies. In 1997, while supporting his daughter Marie-Caroline in an election at Mantes-la-Jolie, to the west of Paris, he physically attacked her socialist opponent, another woman. The scandal did not prevent the FN from registering 15 per cent in the legislative elections; it did, however, call into question Le Pens leadership. In 1998 a court in Versailles investigating the incident at Mantes-la-Jolie banned him from holding or standing for public office for two years. The ban was later reduced, but not before Le Pen had announced that his second wife, Jany, would take his place as leader while he was hors de combat, a gambit which outraged his more ambitious lieutenants. At a special conference, which Le Pen disdained to attend, Bruno Megret, his deputy, was elected leader by a majority of 86 per cent. Though Le Pen was able to retain the name Front National for the rump that remained loyal, Megret, in founding the Mouvement National Republicain (MNR), took with him a large part of the FNs officials. Even Marie-Caroline joined Megret. At the European elections of 1999, the FNs share of the vote slumped to a mere 5.7 per cent, and it was small consolation that Bruno Megrets MNR did only half as well. The consequences of the assault at Mantes-la-Jolie continued to haunt Le Pen, and in 2000 he was extruded from the European Parliament, as well as from his position as Conseiller regional for Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur. Le Pen in 2021 - JOEL SAGET/AFP via Getty Though the FN made some recovery in the municipal elections of 2001, as late as March 2002 it was by no means certain that Le Pen would gather the support of the 500 public officials required to sponsor his candidacy for the presidency. In the event, though, his pariah status enhanced his appeal as a candidate of protest. The presidential election of 2002, however, proved the peak of his career. Afterwards, his attempt to form a union patriotique of the Right came to nothing, and in 2007 he registered only 10 per cent of the vote in the first round of the presidential election. In 2010 Le Pen, now 82, announced that he would not be standing for president in 2012. The leadership of the Front National passed to his youngest daughter Marine, who set about giving the party a wider base by moderating its racism and developing policies designed to appeal to poorer voters. Le Pen set himself against this process of dediabolisation (de-demonisation), and in 2015 caused further embarrassment by repeating his remark that the Holocaust was a detail in the Second World War. In consequence he found himself suspended by Le Front National, while attempts were made to remove his title as honorary president of the party, with his eventual ejection in 2018. When Marine Le Pen was well-beaten by Emmanuel Macron in the second round of the presidential election of 2017, her father called for her removal as leader of the party but in 2022, renamed Rassemblement National, it enjoyed unprecedented success and it is now the largest opposition party in the Assemblee. Jean-Marie Le Pen married first, in 1960, Pierrette Lalanne (dissolved 1987); they had three daughters. He married secondly, in 1991, Jeanne-Marie (Jany) Paschos. Jean-Marie Le Pen, born June 20 1928, died January 7 2025 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) Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of Frances main far-right party and a polarizing figure in French politics, is being buried Saturday in a private family ceremony in his hometown of La Trinite-sur-Mer in Brittany. Le Pen, whose death Tuesday at the age of 96 reignited debates over his divisive legacy, will be interred alongside his parents, according to reports in French media. While Saturdays funeral remains a strictly family-only event, a public ceremony honoring Le Pen is scheduled for Jan. 16 at the Notre Dame du Val-de-Grace church in Paris, offering supporters and detractors alike a chance to reflect on his impact on the nations political landscape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pens daughter, Marine Le Pen, transformed the National Front, now named the National Rally, into one of Frances most powerful political forces. She is now eyeing the 2027 presidential election. Here's a look at the key dates in the life and career of one of Frances most controversial political figures, and his legacy: 1954-1957 Born in 1928 in the western region of Brittany, Jean-Marie Le Pen served in the military, fighting to maintain French colonial rule in Indochina and Algeria. He was a paratrooper in the 1957 battle of Algiers, later acknowledging violent actions he described as imposed by the hierarchy, in response to media reports accusing him of torture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Le Pen was first elected as a lawmaker in the French National Assembly in 1956 under the banner of a populist party. 1972 Jean-Marie Le Pen founded the National Front in a move to increase support for his anti-immigration, nationalist approach and to be able to run as a presidential candidate in the 1974 election, when he got 0.74% of the vote. 1984 The National Front became a well-established force in French politics by winning 10 seats in the European Parliament, including one for Le Pen. 1987 In an interview in 1987, Le Pen referred to the Nazi gas chambers as a detail in World War II history. He would repeat the remark in 2015, saying he did not at all regret it, triggering the ire of his daughter by then the party leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2002 Le Pen qualified for the second round of the French presidential election, prompting a major political shock. In a rare joining of forces, supporters of the right and left poured into the streets of France in a massive show of solidarity against him. Conservative rival Jacques Chirac went on to win in a landslide victory with a record 82% of the vote. A year later, Le Pen said he wanted the notion of national preference written into the French Constitution to limit employment, housing opportunities and other social assistance to French citizens. Immigration is the greatest danger were facing, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2011 Le Pen's daughter, Marine Le Pen, became the leader of the National Front in 2011. She sought to make the party more mainstream, trying to remove the stigma of racism and antisemitism that clung to the party under her father. 2015 Jean-Marie Le Pen was expelled from the National Front due to i ncreasingly shocking statements. Three years later, in 2018, he lost his title of honorary president-for-life and the party changed its name to become the National Rally. 2017 and 2022 Marine Le Pen twice ran for president and reached the second round, losing to centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron. In 2022, she received 41.5% of the vote in the second round, significantly improving her results compared to 2017, when she got 33.9%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July 2022, she was elected as a member of the National Assembly, France's powerful house of parliament, further consolidating her political influence. 2024 The National Rally became one of the three major blocs and a powerful opposition group at the National Assembly, winning over 120 seats at surprise legislative elections called by President Emmanuel Macron. At the end of 2024, Marine Le Pen and other officials went on trial over accusations of having used money intended for European Union parliamentary aides to instead pay staff who worked for the party between 2004 and 2016. She faces a potential prison term and a ban on running for political office as the verdict is expected in March. The Washington Post laid off nearly its entire public relations department in its sweeping layoffs on Tuesday as it moves away from promoting the papers journalism. The Post laid off six staffers from the companys public relations department, leaving it with four managers. Kathleen Floyd, a senior publicist at the Post and co-chair of its union, said she and team were told the paper was no longer promoting the journalism and would focus entirely on talent promotion during a Zoom call on Tuesday morning. Its almost unconscionable that the decision of our leadership would lead to an impact on us, she said. Its not the day-to-day employees fault the we lost more than 250,000 subscribers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kathy Baird, the Posts chief communications officer, confirmed in a memo to staffers the paper will stop the dedicated practice of publicity for our journalism across broadcast and traditional media outlets in service of a new Star Talent Unit. We need our journalism to be accessed at an even greater rate and we no longer believe traditional outreach is the way to get us there, Baird wrote. The layoffs were parts of dozens of cuts on Tuesday in the latest blow to the papers stature. The pink slips were spread throughout the business side, affecting about 4 percent of the papers total staff, the paper confirmed. No one from the Post newsroom was cut. The Washington Post / Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty The Washington Post is continuing its transformation to meet the needs of the industry, build a more sustainable future and reach audiences where they are, a spokesperson said in a statement. Changes across our business functions are all in service of our greater goal to best position The Post for the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The layoffs primarily affected the Posts advertising department, which saw 73 people let go. The advertising department will restructure, chief advertising officer Johanna Mayer-Jones told staffers in a memo obtained by The New York Times. Advertising remains the Posts primary source of revenue, she wrote. Change is never easy, but it is essential for our future, she wrote. The layoffs came months after owner Jeff Bezos killed its planned endorsement of Kamala Harris and caused more than 300,000 people to cancel their subscriptions, throwing the cash-strapped paper into further financial distress. It was already set to lose $77 million before Bezos pulled the plug on the endorsement, according to New York magazine. Tuesdays news dug morale at the beleaguered newsroom deeper into the ground, staffers told the Daily Beast. The paper has already seen nearly 10 staffers leave for competitors just in the last week, and Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes resigned after a cartoon criticizing Bezos and other tech billionaires was killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Post still does not have a permanent editorial leader, and its CEO Will Lewiswho next week faces allegations over a phone-hacking cover-up scandal in the U.K.remains out of sight for most staffers. Everyones just dejected, a Post journalist told the Daily Beast. No one really knows why Lewis still has a job, and no one knows why Bezos is running things this wayor why hes holding onto the paper at this point." The Post Guild said in an email to its members, obtained by the Daily Beast, that it was deeply saddened and concerned by the layoffs. This is a really, really hard time, coming after a really hard time, which came after a really hard time at the company, its leadership wrote to staffers. The Post has gone through waves of job cuts for more than two years. It let 240 people go across both the newsroom and business side in 2023 through buyouts, and it laid off a quarter of staff from its software company Arc XP last year. Our beloved patient is having another exacerbation. French President Macron spoke today and uttered some nonsense: it turns out that Azerbaijan is now to blame for France's internal political problemsnot his failure in the elections or his government's decisions, but Azerbaijan. Macron claimed that Azerbaijan has interfered in France's affairs, and that this is the cause of everything turning into a "copper basin." Moreover, he seems to sincerely believe that all this is happening because France has found a new colony and is defending international law, particularly in the case of Armenia. When Macron talks about Azerbaijan's "unacceptable interference in New Caledonia," it feels as if someone has confused the world map with a geography of their own fantasies. If Macron keeps going, we might soon hear about Azerbaijani drones flying over Paris in his hallucinations. Perhaps it's time for specialized experts to step in. Why is the WHO silent, and where is the Red Cross in all of this? WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) Jefferson County is moving forward with the demolition of two former industrial sites. In a press release from Jefferson County Manager Ryan Piche, Demolition contracts have been awarded for the remediation of the former St. Regis Paper Mill campus in Deferiet, and for the former Abbass Foods Warehouse in Evans Mills. NYSP investigating two suspicious deaths in Carthage Demolition and site cleanup is expected to begin in the spring of this year and wrap up by the end of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sabre Demolition Corporation of Amherst has been charged with demolition of the Champion/St. Regis Paper Mill in Deferiet. The tab is expected to come in around $5.7 million. This project has received $8.6 million from New York States Restore NY Communities Initiative, with a local match of $567,000 appropriated by the Jefferson County Board of Legislators. Additional funds of $300,000 has been contributed by National Grid. Uncommitted funds might be used for additional site improvements after the cleanup is finished. The mill in Deferiet provided good paying jobs and excellent quality of life for generations of families in our community. This initiative will restore the potential of this site for future growth. We are grateful for our partnership with New York State and the Development Authority of the North Country, and we are eager to move this effort forward. Jefferson County District Six Legislator Dan McBride ACP Buffalo will be tasked to demolish the former Abbass Foods Warehouse, which closed in 2000, in Evans Mills to the tune of nearly $500,00. The County Board of Legislators will fund the project. The Board of Legislators and county staff have put a lot of effort into these properties, and I am thankful for my colleagues commitment to these projects, said Jefferson County District Eight Legislator James Nabywaniec. One of the best ways to drive economic growth in our community is to clean-up abandoned properties, get them back on the tax roll, and prepare them for new opportunities. 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. Justice Jimmy Blacklock, a conservative ally of Gov. Greg Abbott, has been named the new chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court. He replaces Nathan Hecht, the courts longest serving justice, who stepped down at the end of December due to the mandatory judicial retirement age. Abbott appointed his general counsel, James P. Sullivan, to take the seat vacated by Blacklocks promotion. The Supreme Court of Texas plays a crucial role to shape the future of our great state, and Jimmy Blacklock and James Sullivan will be unwavering guardians of the Texas Constitution serving on our state's highest judicial court, Abbott said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As chief justice, Blacklock will take on a larger role in the administration of the court. During his tenure, Hecht helped reform the rules of civil procedure and was a fierce advocate for legal aid and other programs to help low-income Texans access the justice system. But, as he told The Texas Tribune in December, when it comes to rulings, the chief is just one voice of nine. Adding Sullivan to the court will further secure the courts conservative stronghold. While Hecht came up in an era when state courts were less politically relevant, Blacklock and Sullivan are both young proteges of an increasingly active conservative legal movement. James Sullivan, who served most recently as general counsel for the Office of the Governor, has been appointed as justice to the Supreme court of Texas. He takes the seat of Jimmy Blacklock, who replaces Nathan Hecht as the court's chief justice. Blacklock attended Yale Law School and clerked on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and after a stint in private practice, he joined the Texas Office of the Attorney General under Abbott. He helped lead Texas aggressive litigation strategy against the Obama administration, defending the states restrictive abortion and voter identification laws, gay marriage restrictions and crusade against the Affordable Care Act. When Abbott became governor, Blacklock became his general counsel. Abbott appointed him to the bench in December 2017, when he was just 38 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas Supreme Court has transformed over the last few decades from a plaintiff-friendly venue dominated by Democrats to the exclusive domain of increasingly conservative Republicans. Abbott, a former justice himself, has played a huge role in this shift, appointing six of the nine current justices, including Sullivan. Sullivan graduated from Harvard Law School and clerked for the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. He spent four years as Texas assistant solicitor general during Abbotts tenure as attorney general, and in 2018, became Abbotts deputy general counsel. In 2021, he became the governors general counsel. 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. Its now seen as one of the most conservative high courts in the country, issuing consequential rulings on abortion, COVID restrictions, health care for trans minors and local control in just the last few years. While Democrats have tried to pin these often unpopular rulings on the justices during election years, incumbents tend to easily win reelection in these relatively low-awareness down-ballot races. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blacklock defeated Harris County District Judge DaSean Jones in November by more than 16 points. In a statement Monday, he thanked Hecht for his extraordinary legacy of service. The Supreme Court of Texas belongs to the People of Texas, not to the judges or the lawyers, he said. Our job at the Court is to apply the law fairly and impartially to every case that comes before us. My colleagues and I are committed to defending the rule of law and to preserving our Texas and United States Constitutions. Correction, Jan. 7, 2025 at 10:14 a.m. : A previous version of a photo caption incorrectly named the former Texas Supreme Court chief justice. His name is Nathan Hecht. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Funeral services continue today for former President Jimmy Carter as his begins his final trip to Washington D.C. Carter died at the age 100 and leaves behind a life dedicated to decades of service. From plains to politics the former President Jimmy Carter accomplished a lot even after leaving the White House becoming the only president to win a Nobel Peace Prize after his term. Now the journey to get the presidents body from Atlanta to the nations capital begins in a few short hours Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The funeral began Saturday morning in his hometown of Plains Georgia with a motorcade ride. Here they stopped at his boyhood home, and the Methodist church where the Carters married in 1946. From there the motorcade traveled to Georgias State Capitol in Atlanta. There was a lot of love on the side of the road for the motorcade. Every overpass had people on it. It was amazing and gave me goosebumps, said Chip Carter, Jimmy Carters son, at a service for his father in Atlanta this week when recalling the motorcade. The motorcade was met by Governor Brian Kemp and Atlantas Mayor. This will be Carters last time in Atlanta where he served as a State Senator and Governor for Georgia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This morning until 6 a.m. people can pay their respects there. He will depart the Carter Center at 9:30 this morning, before flying to Washington D.C. Carter will lie at the U.S. Capitol rotunda, followed by a national funeral service on Thursday. All living presidents have been invited. President Biden will deliver a eulogy at the service. Afterward, Carter will return to Plains for a private service and burial, but the public is invited to line the motorcade route for his final journey. He was really the first president that I remember truly being engaged with as a kid. My brother was in the military, and he was my brothers first commander and chief. It was really a big deal. He was from Georgia. And he did us proud, shared Lawrence Gwen, who is from Savannah and visited Carter Monday. The public will be able to pay their respects in D.C. today. From 7 p.m. to midnight today and from 7 a.m. tomorrow until 7 a.m. on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carters Funeral Schedule: Jan 4-7 : Public Viewing in Atlanta Jan 7-8 : Lying in State at U.S. Capitol Jan 9 : National Funeral Service at Washington National Cathedral Final Resting Place: Plains, GAPublic invited to line motorcade route President Biden also signed a bill to name a U.S. Postal Service facility in Plains after the Carters. The Carter Center says instead of flowers to make a donation to the carter center which was setup by the former president. It was set up to eliminate diseases, restoring peace and monitoring elections around the world. Carter will be buried Friday in a private graveside service, in a plot near his home in Plains. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Members of Congress, the Supreme Court and other dignitaries gathered at the U.S. Capitol for a lying-in-state ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter. Vice President Kamala Harris delivered one of the eulogies for Carter, who died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Latest Developments Jan 7, 5:46 PM Carter to lie in state at Capitol until Thursday Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state at the Capitol from Tuesday evening until Thursday morning, allowing the public to pay respects. PHOTO: A U.S. flag is draped on the casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, as he lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) On Thursday morning, former presidents and other dignitaries will attend a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy. On Thursday afternoon, Carters body will return to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private service and private interment. Carter will be buried next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, who died on Nov. 19, 2023, at the age of 96. Jan 7, 5:48 PM 'Left the world better than he found it,' Harris says Former President Jimmy Carter was a president "ahead of his time," from passing over a dozen major pieces of legislation for environmental protection to establishing the Departments of Energy and Education, Vice President Kamala Harris said in her eulogy. PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a ceremony, as Jimmy Carter, the former President who died on December 29 at the age of 100, lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) From 1977 to 1981, Carter appointed more Black Americans to the federal bench than all his predecessors combined, and he appointed five times as many women, Harris highlighted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter also "established a new model for what it means to be a former president and leave an extraordinary post-presidential legacy," she said. From founding The Carter Center to his public health work to his tireless advocacy for peace and democracy, Harris said his works will echo for generations to come. PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter as Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: Former President Jimmy Carter lies in state at the US Capitol Rotunda in Washington, DC, January 7, 2025. (Saul Loeb/Pool via Reuters) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter was the "all too rare example of a gifted man who also walks with humility, modesty and grace," she said, noting how when he campaigned he slept at his supporters homes and shared a meal with them. PHOTO: Amy Carter attends a ceremony where the flag-draped casket of her father, former President Jimmy Carter, lies in state in the Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) Carter "loved our country. He lived his faith. He served the people. And he left the world better than he found it," Harris said. Carter had said he wanted to live long enough to cast his vote for Harris in the 2024 presidential election. The 100-year-old lifelong Democrat cast his absentee ballot in October. Jan 7, 5:38 PM 'Always willing to roll up his sleeves to get the job done,' House Speaker Mike Johnson House Speaker Mike Johnson also commended Carter's commitment to service in his eulogy. Johnson, who remarked he was 4 years old when Carter was sworn in, said the former president was someone who was humble and captured the imagination of the nation. PHOTO: House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks during a ceremony for former President Jimmy Carter as Carter lies in state at the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (J. Scott Applewhite, Pool via Reuters) He touted his work with Habitat for Humanity and said Carter was "always willing to roll up his sleeves to get the job done." "It's remarkable to think that one of the 45 men who has served as president and one of 13 who held the role in the nuclear age would humble himself to such service," Johnson said. Jan 7, 5:44 PM 'Making the lives of his fellow man better' New Senator Majority Leader John Thune highlighted former President Jimmy Carters work in his 44 years of post-presidency. PHOTO: U.S. Military Body Bearers carry the casket bearing the remains of former President Jimmy Carter into the Capitol Rotunda during a memorial service at the U.S. Capitol, on January 07, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Carter dedicated his time to Habitat for Humanity in his effort to provide affordable housing for those in need. "Jimmy Carter knew that his status as a former president could bring attention to good causes. Thats why he encouraged Habitat to make use of his name and image," Thune said. "But simply lending his name or maybe attending a gala or two wasnt Jimmy Carters style. He was here to get down in the weeds and the dirt, and he did that literally, on numerous Habitat builds." Carter could even be found on a construction site with a hard hat well into his 90s, Thune noted. Carter "focused on making the lives of his fellow man better," he said. Jan 7, 5:06 PM Service to begin at Capitol Former President Jimmy Carters casket has been placed on the Lincoln catafalque in the Rotunda, a stand that has been used for most memorial services at the Capitol, dating back to President Abraham Lincoln. A service for the 39th president will begin momentarily. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Supreme Court justices, members of Congress and ambassadors are among the dignitaries in attendance. Jan 7, 5:03 PM House cancels Wednesday votes The House canceled Wednesday votes in observance of former President Jimmy Carter lying in state at the Capitol. PHOTO: People watch as the casket containing the remains of former President Jimmy Carter passes as it moves toward the U.S. Capitol on a horse-drawn caisson on January 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Susan Walsh, Pool via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTO: People watch as casket of former President Jimmy Carter passes on a horse-drawn caisson on Pennsylvania Avenue on January 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Susan Walsh - Pool via Getty Images) The 39th president will lie in state at the Capitol from Tuesday evening to Thursday morning for the public to pay respects. The next votes in the House will be Thursday at 11:45 a.m., according to Majority Leader Steve Scalise. Jan 7, 5:10 PM Family, Carter Cabinet members serve as honorary pallbearers The Carter family and surviving members of former President Jimmy Carters Cabinet have gathered at the top of the steps of the Capitol to serve as honorary pallbearers and help bring Carters casket inside the Capitol. PHOTO: The casket of former President Jimmy Carter is carried to the US Capitol Rotunda, where he will lie in state, in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, is carried by a body bearer team, to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, Jan. 7, 2025. (Fabrizio Bensch/Reuters) PHOTO: Amy Carter (C), daughter of Jimmy Carter, watches the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter arrive at the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jan 7, 5:09 PM Carter arrives at Capitol Former President Jimmy Carters casket, in a horse-drawn caisson, has arrived at the U.S. Capitol. Military body bearers will carry the casket into the Capitol Rotunda. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travelling by a horse-drawn caisson arrives to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travels by a horse-drawn caisson to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Susan Walsh/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the US Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Mark Schiefelbein/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) At 4:30 p.m. ET, members of Congress, the Supreme Court, the Cabinet, the Joint Chiefs and other officials will come together at the Capitol for a lying in state ceremony. Vice President Kamala Harris, Senator Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson are expected to deliver eulogies and lay wreaths. PHOTO: The U.S. Army's Caisson Detachment carries the casket during the funeral procession for Former President Jimmy Carter on January 7, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Brendan McDermid, Pool via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jan 7, 4:21 PM Motorcade makes emotional stop at Navy Memorial Former President Jimmy Carters motorcade made an emotional stop at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor Carters service as a lieutenant in the Navy. PHOTO: The U.S. Marines stand in formation on the day when the casket of Jimmy Carter, the former president who died on December 29 at the age of 100, will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Jan. 7, 2025. (Brendan Mcdermid, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter travels by a horse-drawn caisson to the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC, on January 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: Members of the U.S. Navy line up to march with the casket of former President Jimmy Carter before it arrives at the U.S. Navy Memorial to travel to the Capitol in Washington to lie in state, Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via Reuters) PHOTO: A horse-drawn caisson carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter as the State Funeral Procession departs the US Navy Memorial and heads to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on Jan. 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Ting Shen/AFP via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters childhood dream was to be in the Navy and he went on to graduate from the United States Naval Academy in 1946. Carter resigned from the Navy in 1953 after his fathers death so he could return to the family farm. Carters casket was transferred from the hearse to a horse-drawn military caisson for a funeral procession that reproduces the walk Carter took with his family on the day of his inauguration. On that January day in 1977, Carter walked the mile-and-a-half inaugural parade route to the White House, rather than ride in a limousine, bringing a common touch to his presidency. PHOTO: Family members look on as the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol on Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via Getty Images) Navy officers stood silently along the snow-lined street, witnessing the casket's transfer to the caisson. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter is transferred to a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial before traveling on to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 7, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein, Pool via AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: A horse-drawn caisson carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter as the State Funeral Procession departs the US Navy Memorial and heads to the Capitol in Washington, DC, on Jan. 7, 2025, where Carter will lie in state. (Ting Shen/AFP via Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carter family will walk behind the casket as it heads from the U.S. Navy Memorial to the U.S. Capitol. Jan 7, 3:03 PM Motorcade leaves Joint Base Andrews Former President Jimmy Carters motorcade has left Joint Base Andrews in Maryland en route to Washington, D.C., to begin several days of services in the nations capital. PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former US President Jimmy Carter departs in a hearse during following an arrival ceremony in Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, Jan. 7, 2025. (Samuel Corum/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTO: A joint services military body bearer team carries the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter on arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Jan. 7, 2025. (Steve Helber/AP) PHOTO: Members of former President Jimmy Carter's family including his grandson Jason Carter (2nd-R) and wife Kate depart Special Air Mission 39 as his casket is transferred to a hearse, Jan. 7, 2025, in Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) Click here to read the rest of the blog. The funeral of President Jimmy Carter has come to a close. The remains of the 39th president, who died on December 29 at the age of 100, will now be taken to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where a private ceremony will be held. There, the late president will be buried alongside Rosalynn Carter, his wife of 77 years. All five living presidents Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton were in attendance. Obama and Trump even had a lengthy chat and shared a laugh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden, a friend of Carters, delivered a eulogy at the service at the Washington National Cathedral. Jimmy Carters friendship taught me, and through his life, taught me strength of character is more than title or the power we hold, Biden said. To young people, to anyone in search of meaning and purpose: study the power of Jimmy Carters example. I miss him, but I take solace in knowing that he and his beloved Rosalynn are reunited again. Thursdays funeral marked the final tribute to the longest-living president as the six-day proceedings come to an end. Funeral services and ceremonies have taken place at the U.S. Capitol, the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, and in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. Key Points Watch live: Former president Jimmy Carters funeral takes place at Washington National Cathedral What is closed on January 9? What to know about national day of mourning for Jimmy Carter Here's the schedule for the final day of funeral rites for President Jimmy Carter Who are Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters children? Why isnt Michelle Obama at the ceremony? Who performed at Jimmy Carters funeral? In pictures: Inside Jimmy Carters state funeral Tuesday 7 January 2025 22:47 , Mike Bedigan (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) (AP) (AP) (Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Carter will lie in state at the US Capitol until Thursday, Biden to deliver euology Tuesday 7 January 2025 22:54 , Graig Graziosi Former President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29 aged 100, will lie in state at the US Capitol until Thursday. On Thursday morning, former heads of state and dignitaries will attend a funeral for Carter at the National Cathedral in Washington DC. President Joe Biden will deliver a euology during that service. America and Donald Trump have much to learn from the life and service of Jimmy Carter Tuesday 7 January 2025 23:00 , Editorial As the tributes poured in from the United States and around the world, it was hard not to observe that even in death there can be good and bad timing and Jimmy Carters was perfect. He had reached the age of 100, to become the longest-lived US president ever. His state funeral will take place, appropriately, under a Democratic administration, and could well mark the last public appearance of Joe Biden as president before the inauguration of his successor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of all, with just three weeks remaining before Donald Trump enters the White House for the second time, the passing of Jimmy Carter has provided the ideal pretext for Trumps detractors to hurl yet more disapproving stones at the man they love to hate. Read more: America and Trump have much to learn from the life and service of Jimmy Carter Jimmy Carter is back in Washington, where he remained an outsider Tuesday 7 January 2025 23:20 , Graig Graziosi Nearly 44 years after Jimmy Carter left the nations capital in humbling defeat, the 39th president returned to Washington for three days of state funeral rites starting Tuesday. Carters remains, which had been lying in repose at the Carter Presidential Center since Saturday, left the Atlanta campus Tuesday morning, accompanied by his children and extended family. Special Air Mission 39 departed Dobbins Air Reserve Base north of Atlanta and arrived at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. A motorcade carried the casket into Washington for a final journey to the Capitol, where members of Congress will pay their respects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Georgia, eight military pallbearers held Carters casket as canons fired on the tarmac nearby. They carried it to a vehicle that lifted it to the passenger compartment of the aircraft, the iconic blue and white Boeing 747 variant that is known as Air Force One when the sitting president is on board. Carter never traveled as president on the jet, which first flew as Air Force One in 1990 with President George H.W. Bush. READ MORE: Jimmy Carter is back in Washington, where he remained an outsider Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter left behind enduring nonprofits as part of their legacy of giving back Tuesday 7 January 2025 23:40 , Graig Graziosi President Jimmy Carter s legacy of giving back endures in several nonprofits he and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, supported for the almost 50 years after they left the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Los Angeles on Monday, members of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles signed wooden two-by-fours that will be used in a new house as a tribute to the former president, who died at age 100 on Dec. 29. In Houston, they are planning to let members of the community sign a door and wall in a new house to remember the thousands of homes the Carters helped build. They will do the same in Tallahassee, Florida, and numerous other communities, in preparation for Carters state funeral on Jan. 9. The tributes to his dedication to providing affordable housing show how the Carters work will continue. READ MORE: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter left behind enduring nonprofits as part of their legacy of giving back Jimmy Carter made eradicating Guinea worm disease a top mission Wednesday 8 January 2025 00:00 , Russ Bynum, Sam Mednick Noble Prize-winning peacemaker Jimmy Carter spent nearly four decades waging war to eliminate an ancient parasite plaguing the worlds poorest people. Rarely fatal but searingly painful and debilitating, Guinea worm disease infects people who drink water tainted with larvae that grow inside the body into worms as much as 3-feet-long. The noodle-thin parasites then burrow their way out, breaking through the skin in burning blisters. Carter made eradicating Guinea worm a top mission of The Carter Center, the nonprofit he and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, founded after leaving the White House. The former president rallied public health experts, billionaire donors, African heads of state and thousands of volunteer villagers to work toward eliminating a human disease for only the second time in history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Jimmy Carter made eradicating Guinea worm disease a top mission Despite Trumps protests, flags will be flown at half-staff on Inauguration Day to remember Jimmy Carter Wednesday 8 January 2025 00:59 , Graig Graziosi As former President Jimmy Carter lies in state at the US Capitol, flags at US federal buildings around the world have been lowered to half staff, and will remain that way until January 28. That means that American flags will be at half-staff a sign of national mourning when President-elect Donald Trump is inaugurated on January 20. Despite Trumps complaints that nobody wants to see this and that no American can be happy about it, the flag lowering has nothing to do with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When a president dies, US law requires that flags at federal buildings be flown at half-staff for 30 days. Because Carter died on December 29, that means the mourning period will occur in tandem with Trumps inauguration. Thus far, there is no reason to think that is going to change before January 20. VIDEO: Jimmy Carter, former US president, dies aged 100 Wednesday 8 January 2025 01:00 , Gustaf Kilander End of coverage Wednesday 8 January 2025 01:47 , Graig Graziosi This concludes our coverage of former President Jimmy Carters memorial service in Washington, DC. Thank you for reading The Independent. Be sure to check back for further developments on this and other stories. Jimmy Carter brokered peace in the Middle East then triggered his greatest failure Wednesday 8 January 2025 02:00 , Mary Dejevsky Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For all the praise that has been lavished on Jimmy Carter, he was a one-term president and his four years at the White House were for the most part a failure albeit outweighed many times over by the charitable endeavours of his retirement. The Carter administration did, however, notch up one diplomatic success, which might have gained more recognition without what happened next. The success came with the Camp David accords that were signed in September 1978; that is a third of the way through his term, and constituted a diplomatic breakthrough of the first order. They afforded Israel more security than it had arguably enjoyed since its creation in 1948 and they brought peace, for a while, to the Middle East. It is hard to recall now, but the main conflict before then had pitted Israel against the whole of the Arab world, with Egypt in the vanguard as the strongest military power. Read more: Jimmy Carter brokered peace in the Middle East then triggered his greatest failure How American presidents have planned their own funerals Wednesday 8 January 2025 03:00 , Chris Megerian Jimmy Carters memorial journey will end at his house in the tiny town of Plains, Georgia, where he grew up on a peanut farm. That is where his wife, Rosalynn, was laid to rest last year in a burial plot that they chose years ago. But before Carter reaches his humble final destination, there will be an interstate choreography of grief, ceremony and logistics that is characteristic of state funerals. Ever since the nations founding, America has bid farewell to former presidents with an intricate series of events weaving together longstanding traditions and personal touches. Funerals often are planned by the presidents themselves, who usually have years after leaving the White House to ponder how they want to be memorialized. Read more: How American presidents have planned their own funerals Did Jimmy Carter blow royal etiquette by kissing Queen Mother on the lips? Wednesday 8 January 2025 04:00 , Alex Croft The late former US president Jimmy Carter was a relative novice at international diplomacy when made his first visit to the UK just four months into his term in the White House in 1977 which resulted in him earning the displeasure of the Queen Mother after being said to have given her a parting kiss on the lips. It was the year of Queen Elizabeths Silver Jubilee, marking her 25th year on the throne, and world leaders attending a G7 summit were invited for a state banquet in Buckingham Palace where they were to meet the Queen and other members of the Royal Family. Photographs showed Mr Carter and the Queen Mother being all smiles as the president escorted her by her white-gloved hand to their places in a formal group portrait with the G7 leaders before dinner. But the evening would end with a short moment which would spark debate among British tabloids and the American media for decades afterwards, with the president accused of a total ignorance of royal protocol. Read more: Did Jimmy Carter blow royal etiquette by kissing Queen Mother on the lips? The humblest president in history: How Jimmy and Rosalynn returned to their Plains home after the White House Wednesday 8 January 2025 05:00 , Gustaf Kilander Jimmy Carter once held the highest office in the land but was just as content in his family home in small town Georgia. At the age of 56, having lost the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter returned to Plains, Georgia, the small town where both he and his wife Rosalynn were born in the 1920s. From the White House, they moved back into the ranch house they built in the city in 1961. That modest home is where Carter peacefully died on Sunday at the age of 100. At the 2020 census, Plains, which to many is only known for being the birthplace of the Carters, had a population of 573. In 2022, the median household income was $36,138. Read more: How Jimmy and Rosalynn returned to Plains after the White House Longest-lived US president was always happy to speak his mind Wednesday 8 January 2025 06:00 , PA Reporters Jimmy Carter, the United States longest-lived president, was never afraid of speaking his mind. Forthright and fearless, the Nobel Prize winner took pot-shots at former prime minister Tony Blair and ex-US president George W Bush among others. His death came after repeated bouts of illness in which images of the increasingly frail former president failed to erase memories of his fierce spirit. Democrat James Earl Jimmy Carter Jr swept to power in 1977 with his Trust Me campaign helping to beat Republican president Gerald Ford. Read more: Longest-lived US president was always happy to speak his mind Jimmy Carters life in photos Wednesday 8 January 2025 07:00 , Ariana Baio Jimmy Carters life was marked by his devotion to his family, public service and humanitarian efforts. The former president first emerged into the political scene in the early 1960s and spent the rest of his life working to ensure people in the US and around the world received fair treatment and a better quality of life. From an early age his desire to make a difference in peoples life was evident. Read more: Jimmy Carters life in photos How Jimmy Carter spent his final years building houses for the poor as he continued life of public service Wednesday 8 January 2025 08:00 , Graeme Massie, Ariana Baio He was the oldest living president and had been out of the White House for more than 35 years, but Jimmy Carter never stopped working to improve the lives of others much of which included building homes for the needy. Even well into his 90s, Carter put on a hard hat and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, the nonprofit organization he often partnered with through The Carter Center. The one-term president who died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia worked alongside 103,000 volunteers in 14 countries to build, renovate and repair 4,331 homes with Habitat for Humanity for more than 35 years. Often, Carter and his late wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, volunteered together. Read more: How Jimmy Carter built houses for the poor until his final years Meeting Jimmy Carter and getting a scoop about Bush, Blair and Iraq from the perfect gentleman Wednesday 8 January 2025 09:00 , Andrew Buncombe The thing that sticks in my mind even now was the welcoming eyes and the warm smile. He stretched out his hand to offer it in greeting and said something along the measure of: Thanks for coming down to see us. Jimmy Carter who died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, at age 100 was always known as a gentleman, a farmer from Georgia who had held the most powerful political office in the world. But it did not seem forced, it did not seem an act. Id flown to the offices of The Carter Center in Atlanta to interview him about his latest book, The Hornets Nest: A Novel of the Revolutionary War. Hed written plenty of books he would go on to author more than 30 but this was his first novel, one that the publisher Simon & Schuster described as a sweeping novel of the American South and the War of Independence. Read more: Meeting Jimmy Carter and getting a scoop about Bush, Blair and Iraq Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter left behind enduring nonprofits as part of their legacy of giving back Wednesday 8 January 2025 10:00 , Thalia Beaty President Jimmy Carter s legacy of giving back endures in several nonprofits he and his wife, Rosalynn Carter, supported for the almost 50 years after they left the White House. In Los Angeles on Monday, members of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles signed wooden two-by-fours that will be used in a new house as a tribute to the former president, who died at age 100 on Dec. 29. In Houston, they are planning to let members of the community sign a door and wall in a new house to remember the thousands of homes the Carters helped build. They will do the same in Tallahassee, Florida, and numerous other communities, in preparation for Carters state funeral on Jan. 9. The tributes to his dedication to providing affordable housing show how the Carters work will continue. Read more: Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter left behind enduring nonprofits as part of their legacy of giving back Sunday school class with Jimmy Carter: What it was like Wednesday 8 January 2025 11:00 , Paul Newberry It never got old. No matter how many times one crammed into the modest sanctuary at Maranatha Baptist Church, there was always some wisdom to be gleaned from the measured, Bible-inspired words of Jimmy Carter. This was another side of the 39th president, a down-to-earth man of steadfast faith who somehow found time to teach Sunday school classes when he wasnt building homes for the needy, or advocating for fair elections, or helping eradicate awful diseases. For young and old, straight and gay, believers and nonbelievers, Black and white and brown, Maranatha was a far-off-the-beaten path destination in southwest Georgia where Carter, well into his 90s, stayed connected with his fellow citizens of the world. Read more: Sunday school class with Jimmy Carter: What it was like We give money, we dont take it: Where might former president Jimmy Carters savings go after he dies? Wednesday 8 January 2025 12:00 , Katie Hawkinson Jimmy Carter, former president of the United States, was not an extravagant man. He lived on a property in Plains, Georgia where he died on December 29 at age 100 that was worth a fraction of the average U.S. house price, he shopped at budget stores, and he did not fly privately. The least expensive former president for the U.S. government, Carter and his wife Rosalynn who died in 2023 lived a surprisingly average life after his term ended in 1981. While the Carters lived a public life, they were nothing if not generous with their money. Read more: Where might former president Jimmy Carters money go after he dies? Who are Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters children? Wednesday 8 January 2025 13:00 , Gustaf Kilander, Amelia Neath When Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter entered the White House in 1977, they became the first couple since John F Kennedy to raise their children in the executive mansion on Pennsylvania Avenue. Over the years, their family continued to grow in size, with nearly two dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren added to the Carter clan. We have a big family now. We have 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, 38 of us in all, Carter told CNN in 2015. So, we try to hold our family together and just enjoy the family life. Read more: Who are Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters children? Carter reflected on 1980 Olympic boycott: A bad decision Wednesday 8 January 2025 14:00 , Eddie Pells It was a decision that robbed hundreds of athletes of their once-in-a-lifetime chance at Olympic glory, and for more than four decades, it weighed heavily on the man who made it Jimmy Carter. Carters passing Sunday has unearthed memories from his 1977-1981 presidency. Somewhere between his greatest foreign-policy success (the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt) and his greatest failure (the Iran hostage crisis) sits the U.S. boycott of the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. It was Carter who called for that boycott a Cold War power play intended to express Americas disdain for the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. In his 1980 State of the Union Address, Carter said the invasion could pose the most serious threat to world peace since the second World War. Read more: Carter reflected on 1980 Olympic boycott: A bad decision Here's the schedule for the final day of funeral rites for President Jimmy Carter 13:27 , AP Here is Thursdays schedule for the final day of rites honoring Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, who died Dec. 29. All times are Eastern: 9 a.m. Carters casket departs the U.S. Capitol. The funeral motorcade travels to Washington National Cathedral. 9:30 a.m. Carters motorcade arrives at Washington National Cathedral. 10 a.m. The Washington funeral begins. 11:15 a.m. Carters remains and his family depart the cathedral for Joint Base Andrews. 11:45 a.m. They board Special Air Mission 39. 2 p.m. Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Lawson Army Airfield at Fort Moore, Georgia. Carters remains will be transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family then travel to Plains by motorcade. 3:30 p.m. Motorcade arrives at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. 3:45 p.m. An invitation-only funeral at the church begins. 4:45 p.m. A motorcade takes participants from the church to the Carter residence. 5:20 p.m. A U.S. Navy missing man formation conducts a flyover in honor of Carters naval service and time as commander in chief, followed by a private graveside ceremony and interment. What is closed on January 9? What to know about national day of mourning for Jimmy Carter 13:33 , Gustaf Kilander The U.S. will honor the late President Jimmy Carter with a national day of mourning, which will see some offices closed for the day. Carter died at the age of 100 on December 29. President Joe Biden used an executive order to declare January 9, the day of Carters state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral, a day of mourning. Biden is set to deliver a eulogy, and President-elect Donald Trump has said that he will attend the ceremony. Flags are being flown at half-staff for the 30-day period following the late presidents death, CNN noted. The most recent national day of mourning took place in December 2018 following the death of President George H.W. Bush at the age of 94. Heres what will definitely be closed on Thursday. What is closed on January 9? What to know about national day of mourning PHOTOS: Hearse awaits Carters casket for journey to Washington National Cathedral 14:00 , Gustaf Kilander The U.S. Capitol is seen reflected in a hearse bearing the presidential seal ahead of the funeral procession of former President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) The U.S. Capitol over a hearse bearing the presidential seal ahead of the funeral procession of former President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) Jimmy Carter will be honored at Washington funeral before burial in Georgia hometown 14:00 , Bill Barrow Jimmy Carter, who considered himself an outsider even as he sat in the Oval Office as the 39th U.S. president, will be honored Thursday with the pageantry of a funeral at Washington National Cathedral before a second service and burial in his tiny Georgia hometown. President Joe Biden, who was the first sitting senator to endorse Carters 1976 presidential campaign, will eulogize his fellow Democrat 11 days before he leaves office. All of Carters living successors are expected to attend the Washington funeral, including President-elect Donald Trump, who paid his respects before Carters casket Wednesday. The rare gathering of commanders in chief is one example of how Thursday will be an unusual moment of comity for the nation. Days of formal ceremonies and remembrances from political leaders, business titans and rank-and-file citizens have honored Carter for decency and using a prodigious work ethic to do more than obtain political power. Read more: Jimmy Carter will be honored at Washington funeral before burial in Georgia hometown Watch live: Former president Jimmy Carters funeral takes place at Washington National Cathedral 14:07 , Lucy Leeson Watch live as former president Jimmy Carters funeral takes place at Washington National Cathedral today (9 January). The 39th U.S. president, will be honored with the pageantry of a funeral at Washington National Cathedral before a second service and burial in his tiny Georgia hometown. President Joe Biden, who was the first sitting senator to endorse Carters 1976 presidential campaign, will eulogize his fellow Democrat 11 days before he leaves office. All of Carters living successors are expected to attend the Washington funeral, including President-elect Donald Trump, who paid his respects before Carters casket Wednesday. Thursday will conclude six days of national rites that began in Plains, Georgia, where Carter was born in 1924, lived most of his life and died Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Ceremonies continued in Atlanta and Washington, where Carter, a former Naval officer, engineer and peanut farmer, has lain in state since Tuesday. PHOTOS: Carters casket leaves the Capitol 14:10 , Gustaf Kilander An Honor Guard prepares for the departure of the remains of former US President Jimmy Carter from the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) Amy Carter (4th L) joined by members of the Carter family watch as the remains of former US President Jimmy Carter leave the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) The remains of former US President Jimmy Carter leave the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) The remains of former US President Jimmy Carter leave the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Biden arrives to Washington National Cathedral 14:28 , Gustaf Kilander President Joe Bidens motorcade arrived at the Washington National Cathedral at 9.20 a.m. He was traveling with the first lady, vice president, and second gentleman. The motorcade drove through a snowy Rock Creek Park before driving along Waterside Drive to Massachusetts Avenue. Onlookers watched the motorcade drive by from outside the British Embassy. PHOTOS: Carters casket leaves the Capitol 14:41 , Gustaf Kilander The remains of former US President Jimmy Carter leave the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) The remains of former US President Jimmy Carter leave the US Capitol for the State Funeral Service at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (POOL/AFP via Getty Images) PHOTOS: Dignitaries gather for Carter's funeral 14:44 , Gustaf Kilander Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (C-R) attends the state funeral for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral on January 09, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) Former Vice President Al Gore arrives ahead of the state funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral on January 9, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images) Former Senator Patrick Leahy arrives ahead of the state funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral on January 9, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images) U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan speak ahead of the state funeral for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral on January 09, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) Trump greets Pence at funeral 14:54 , Gustaf Kilander Donald and Melania Trump have arrived at the Washington National Cathedral. Trump shook hands with his former Vice President Mike Pence as he sat down. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump greets former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence as he arrives with Melania Trump as former U.S. Vice President Al Gore looks on during the state funeral for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral on January 09, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) US President-elect Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump arrive to attend the State Funeral Service for former US President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) US President-elect Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump arrive to attend the State Funeral Service for former US President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) Trump chatting with Obama ahead of funeral 15:01 , Gustaf Kilander Trump is seated next to Obama, and they appear to be having a friendly conversation. Michelle Obama does not appear to be in attendance. Next to Obama, George and Laura Bush are seated, with Bill and Hillary Clinton closest to the aisle. Kamala Harris is sitting with Doug Emhoff in the first row alongside Joe and Jill Biden. Former US President Barack Obama, President-elect Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump arrive to attend the State Funeral Service for former US President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) PHOTOS: Dignitaries arrive for funeral 15:14 , Gustaf Kilander Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) speak ahead of the state funeral for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter at Washington National Cathedral on January 09, 2025 in Washington, DC (Getty Images) Former US President Barack Obama speaks with President-elect Donald Trump before the State Funeral Service for former US President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) Former President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump speak together ahead of the state funeral services for former President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral on January 9, 2025 in Washington, D.C (Getty Images) US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrive for the State Funeral Service for former US President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025 (AFP via Getty Images) WATCH: Trump and Obama share a laugh at former president Jimmy Carter's funeral 15:25 , Kelly Rissman Who will speak at Carters funeral? 15:31 , Kelly Rissman President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy to honor his friend, the late Jimmy Carter. Heres who else will be speaking at Thursdays service, according to the White House: Joshua Carter reads the First Lesson (Romans 8:1-18, 38-39) Steven Ford delivers remarks Ted Mondale delivers remarks The Armed Forces Chorus, the U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra, and the Cathedral Choir perform Eternal Father, Strong to Save. Stuart Eizenstat delivers remarks Jason Carter delivers remarks Phyllis Adams and Leila Bolden perform Song Rise to Thee. The U.S. Marine Orchestra performs Amazing The President James Carter delivers the Gospel reading (Matthew 5:1-16) Reverend Andrew Young delivers the homily Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood perform Imagine. The Lords Prayer The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde and Reverend Anthony Lowden deliver The Prayers The Most Reverend Sean Rowe, The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, and The Very Reverend Randolph Marshall Hollerith deliver the Commendation The Most Reverend Sean Rowe delivers the Blessing The Very Reverend Randolph Marshall Hollerith delivers the Dismissal Dismissal song All Hail the Power of Jesus Name. God did a good thing when he made your dad: Steven Ford tells Carter family 15:37 , Kelly Rissman Steven Ford, an actor and the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford, opened his remarks by addressing Carters children, saying he was praying for them. The former president died in 2006. He preceded Carter as president. It was your dad in his great faith that supported my mom and gave her hope, Ford said. God did a good thing when he made your dad, he said. The youngest son of former President Gerald Ford gives remarks 15:44 , Kelly Rissman Honesty and truth-telling were synonymous with Jimmy Carter, Steven Ford said, reading a eulogy by his father, former President Gerald Ford. Those traits were instilled in Carter by his parents, the youngest son of former President Gerald Ford said. He displayed that honesty throughout his life, he continued. For Carter, honesty was not an aspirational goal but it was part of his soul. He also praised Carter for his humanitarian work, including trying to eradicate disease and building homes with Habitat for Humanity. All 5 living presidents are in attendance but only four first ladies 15:48 , Kelly Rissman Michelle Obama did not accompany her husband, former President Barack Obama, at the funeral for Jimmy Carter in D.C. on Thursday. Jill Biden, Hillary Clinton, Melania Trump, and Laura Bush were all at the ceremony, but Michelle Obama couldnt make it, according to a report. Im told by her advisors that she has scheduling conflicts, journalist Jeff Zeleny said on CNN Thursday. Shes still in Hawaii. Ted Mondale, son of Carters VP Walter Mondale, delivers remarks 15:59 , Kelly Rissman Ted Mondale, former Minnesota state senator and son of former Vice President Walter Mondale, read his fathers eulogy to Carter on Thursday. Mondale recounted Carters commitment to combatting global issues and praised his legacy. The late vice president said that Carter protected him from humiliation faced by other vice presidents. I will always be proud and grateful to work with you toward noble ends, the younger Mondale read. Stuart Eizenstat, Carters former chief domestic policy adviser, delivers remarks 16:10 , Kelly Rissman Stuart Eizenstat, former chief domestic policy adviser to President Jimmy Carter, called as close to being a renaissance man as any president entering the Oval Office in modern times. Carter was a poet, author, creator of the Carter Center, fly fisherman, Naval officer, president, husband and father, Eizenstat said. As we lay our 39th presence to rest, its time we redeem his presidency and also lay to rest the myth that his greatest achievement only came as a former president, he said. Carter parked politics at the Oval Office door, took on controversial challenges, and did what he thought was right. As president, he appointed more people of color and women to senior executive positions than any of the 38 presidents before him. He created the Education Department and FEMA. He provided the first incentives for conservation and inaugurated the era of clean energy, and even installed solar panels on the roof of the White House, Eizenstat said. He may not be a candidate for Mt. Rushmore but he belongs int he foothills by making the U.S. and the world safer, Eizenstat concluded. Spotted: Karen Pence avoids shaking Donald Trumps hand at Carters funeral 16:15 , Kelly Rissman Karen Pence wants nothing to do with Donald or Melania Trump. pic.twitter.com/VJB14nzOhR Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) January 9, 2025 The late presidents grandson gives touching remarks 16:24 , Kelly Rissman Jason Carter, the grandson of the late president, said his grandparents spent a lot of time demonstrating to others that they were regular folks. Their house was a good reminder: walls papered with photos of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, filled with fishing trophies, and an old phone with a cord. He joked one time the former president called Jason and didnt realize it: I didnt call you, Im trying to take a picture. The audience erupted in laughter. But he was far from ordinary, his grandson said. He had the courage and strength to stick to his principles even when they were politically unpopular, Jason said. He said Carter acted the same both in public and private. I never perceived a difference in his public face and his private one. He was the same person no matter who he was with or where he was, Jason said, calling it the definition of integrity. In the end, his life is a love story, he said. Its a love story between Jimmy and Rosalyn; in the last few weeks, the former president told his family that he was ready to see her again, Jason said. His principles and his work as president and beyond were also based in love and respect, Jason said. Joe Biden delivers eulogy for the late 39th president 16:43 , Kelly Rissman President Joe Biden read a eulogy for the late president, who he describes as his friend. Carter came from a house without running water or electricity and rose to a pinnacle, a power, Biden said. Biden said Carter never let politics keep him from his principles: Jimmy had character. The president said: Because of that, character I believe is destiny. Destiny in our lives, and quite frankly, destiny in the life of the nation. Its an accumulation of a million things built on character, that leads to a good life and a decent country. Life of purpose, life of meaning. Now, how do we find that good life? What does it look like What does it take to build character? Do the ends justify the means? Jimmy Carters friendship taught me, and through his life, taught me, strength of character is more than title or the power we hold, Biden continued. Carter saw well into the future, he said. A decorated Navy veteran who brokered peace. A brilliant nuclear engineer who led a nuclear nonproliferation. A hard-working farmer who championed conservation and clean energy, Biden said. Carter also demonstrated a model post-presidency, making profound differences in the U.S. and around the world, the president said. God bless you Jimmy Carter, Biden concluded. In photos: Jimmy Carters funeral at the National Cathedral 16:55 , Kelly Rissman President Joe Biden makes the sign of the cross as he passes the casket of former President Jimmy Carter during a state funeral service at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) (AP) epa11815266 (Top to Bottom, L-R) Former US Vice President Mike Pence, former US President Bill Clinton, his wife Hillary Clinton, former US President George W. Bush, his wife Laura Bush, former US President Barack Obama, US President-elect Donald Trump, his wife Melania Trump, US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, US Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff pay their respects at the state funeral for former US President Jimmy Carter at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, USA, 09 January 2025. Carter, the 39th US president, died at age 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, on 29 December 2024. EPA/SAMUEL CORUM / POOL (EPA) Grandson Jason Carter, walks by and touches the flag-draped casket of former President Jimmy Carter, after speaking a tribute at the state funeral for Carter at Washington National Cathedral, Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis) (AP) epa11815300 The flag-draped casket of former US President Jimmy Carter lies in state during his State Funeral services at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, USA, 09 January 2025. Carter, the 39th US president, died at age 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, on 29 December 2024. EPA/HAIYUN JIANG/ POOL (EPA) Biden concludes eulogy 16:58 , Kelly Rissman President Biden delivered a heartfelt eulogy to his friend Jimmy Carter on Thursday morning. After honoring Carters character, the president said: To young people, to anyone in search of meaning and purpose: study the power of Jimmy Carters example. I miss him, but I take solace in knowing that his beloved Rosalynn are reunited again. Biden continued: To the entire Carter family, thank you, and I mean this sincerely, for sharing them both with America and the world. We love you all. Jill and I will cherish our visits with them, including that last one in their home. We saw Jimmy as he always was, at peace with a life fully lived, a good life, a purpose and meaning of character, driven by destiny and filled with the power of faith, hope and love. Read the full story. Biden hails Carters strength of character in eulogy for 39th president Why Michelle Obama skipped Jimmy Carters funeral 17:05 , Kelly Rissman All five living presidents and their partners attended former President Jimmy Carters funeral, except for one person: former First Lady Michelle Obama. Carters life was celebrated at the National Cathedral on Thursday morning. However, the former first lady was notably absent despite all other former and current first ladies attending. Its not entirely clear why the former first lady was absent. However, CNNs Chief National Affairs Correspondent Jeff Zeleny reports it was due to an extended vacation in Hawaii. Katie Hawkinson has the full story. Why Michelle Obama skipped Jimmy Carters funeral Who performed at Jimmy Carters funeral? 17:12 , Kelly Rissman Heres a look at who performed at the funeral service for the late 39th president on Thursday: The Armed Forces Chorus, the U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra, and the Cathedral Choir perform Eternal Father, Strong to Save. Phyllis Adams and Leila Bolden perform Song Rise to Thee. The U.S. Marine Orchestra performs Amazing Grace Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood perform Imagine. Funeral services come to a close 17:21 , Kelly Rissman The funeral services at Washington National Cathedral have concluded. The late presidents casket is being carried out of the cathedral and into the hearse on the way to Joint Base Andrews. Then, there will be a private ceremony and burial in Plains, Georgia, his hometown. ICYMI: Karen Pence doesn't shake Trump or Melania's hand at Jimmy Carter's funeral 17:22 , Kelly Rissman Who are Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters children? 17:54 , Amelia Neath, Gustaf Kilander When Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter entered the White House in 1977, they became the first couple since John F Kennedy to raise their children in the executive mansion on Pennsylvania Avenue. Over the years, their family continued to grow in size, with nearly two dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren added to the Carter clan. We have a big family now. We have 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, 38 of us in all, Carter told CNN in 2015. Read the full story. Who are Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters children? ICYMI: Jason Carter delivers a eulogy for his grandfather Jimmy Carter 18:10 , Kelly Rissman What to know about national day of mourning for Jimmy Carter 18:30 , Kelly Rissman The U.S. will honor the late President Jimmy Carter with a national day of mourning, which will see some offices closed for the day. Carter died at the age of 100 on December 29. President Joe Biden used an executive order to declare January 9, the day of Carters state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral, a day of mourning. Biden is set to deliver a eulogy, and President-elect Donald Trump has said that he will attend the ceremony. Flags are being flown at half-staff for the 30-day period following the late presidents death. Gustaf Kilander has the full story. What is closed on January 9? What to know about national day of mourning In photos: Jimmy Carter honored at Washington National Cathedral 18:50 , Kelly Rissman Jimmy Carter (Haiyun Jiang) APTOPIX Jimmy Carter (The Washington Post) APTOPIX Jimmy Carter (Haiyun Jiang) APTOPIX Jimmy Carter (Haiyun Jiang) Biden hails Carters strength of character in eulogy 19:10 , Kelly Rissman President Joe Biden on Thursday eulogized the late former president Jimmy Carter as a man whose deep Christian faith in God had led him to lead an extraordinary and forward-looking life over the century he spent on the earth, one who never let the tides of politics divert him from his mission to serve and shape the world . Throughout his life, he showed us what it means to be a practitioner of good works and a good and faithful servant of God and of the people, said Biden, who praised Carter as having seen well into the future even though he had appeared to many as being a relic of a bygone era. A white southern Baptist who led his son civil rights, a decorated Navy veteran who brokered peace, a brilliant nuclear engineer who led a nuclear nonproliferation, a hard working farmer who championed conservation and clean energy ... through it all, he showed us how character and faith start with ourselves and then flows to others, he said. Andrew Feinberg has the story. Biden hails Jimmy Carters strength of character in eulogy for 39th president ICYMI: Trump and Obama share a laugh at former president Jimmy Carter's funeral 19:30 , Kelly Rissman All the awkward interactions between presidents at Jimmy Carters funeral 20:00 , Kelly Rissman Instances when all five living presidents come together are rare. But for Jimmy Carters funeral on Thursday, they were all there. President-elect Donald Trump was the first to arrive alongside former and future First Lady Melania Trump. Barack Obama, the Clintons, Bushes and Bidens were also in attendance. Michelle Obama was the only living first lady who was absent, with reports claiming she was in Hawaii. Outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff were the last to take their seats among a sea of lawmakers and members of previous administrations. Given the funerals proximity to the election and the heated rhetoric over the past few years some notably awkward moments were spotted by those watching the service. Gustaf Kilander has the story. All the awkward interactions between presidents at Jimmy Carters funeral A professional lip reader reveals what Obama and Trump were talking about before Carters funeral 20:30 , Kelly Rissman All five living presidents attended Jimmy Carters funeral at the Washington National Cathedral on Thursday. Obama sat next to President-elect Trump. The pair were seen chatting away ahead of the service and they were even spotted laughing. But a professional lip reader told the New York Post that the pair seemed to be discussing a serious matter. Forensic lipreader Jeremy Freeman believed they were talking about international agreements perhaps a pertinent subject, given that Trump in recent weeks has been pushing to expand the U.S.s control to include Greeland, Canada, and the Panama Canal. At one point, Trump appeared to have told Obama: Ive pulled out of that. Its the conditions. Can you imagine that? Obama appeared to laugh and say he would before Trump said: Call me at the foy after, yep, seemingly referring to the cathedrals foyer, Freeman interpreted. Obama then said: Can you just it should be good. According to Freeman, Trump replied: I cant talk, we have to find a quiet place sometime. This is a matter of importance and we need to do this outside so that we can deal with it, certainly, today. Former President Barack Obama speaks with President-elect Donald Trump before the State Funeral Service for former President Jimmy Carter at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on January 9, 2025. (AFP via Getty Images) Heres the schedule for the final day of funeral rites for President Jimmy Carter 21:00 , Kelly Rissman Here is Thursdays schedule for the final day of rites honoring Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, who died Dec. 29. All times are Eastern: 9 a.m. Carters casket departs the U.S. Capitol. The funeral motorcade travels to Washington National Cathedral. 9:30 a.m. Carters motorcade arrives at Washington National Cathedral. 10 a.m. The Washington funeral begins. 11:15 a.m. Carters remains and his family depart the cathedral for Joint Base Andrews. 11:45 a.m. They board Special Air Mission 39. 2 p.m. Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Lawson Army Airfield at Fort Moore, Georgia. Carters remains will be transferred with ceremony to the hearse. Carter and his family then travel to Plains by motorcade. 3:30 p.m. Motorcade arrives at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains. 3:45 p.m. An invitation-only funeral at the church begins. 4:45 p.m. A motorcade takes participants from the church to the Carter residence. 5:20 p.m. A U.S. Navy missing man formation conducts a flyover in honor of Carters naval service and time as commander in chief, followed by a private graveside ceremony and interment. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Former President Jimmy Carter will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda from Jan. 7 through Jan. 9. Peoplw are able to pay their respects during public viewing hours. No mail, post offices closed day of Jimmy Carter funeral Here are the times and some things to know: Tuesday, Jan.7 The line to the Capitol Visitor Center will open at 6 p.m. to the public at Second Street and East Capitol Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From 7:30 p.m. until midnight, the U.S. Capitol Rotunda will open to the public. Police initially said the area would open at 7 p.m.; however, in an update Tuesday, they announced the change. Wednesday, Jan. 8 The U.S. Capitol Rotunda will open for public viewing at 7 a.m. and will stay open throughout the night. Thursday, Jan. 9 The U.S. Capitol Rotunda will close to the public for public viewing at 7 a.m. Friday, Jan. 10 The Capitol and Capitol Visitor Center will reopen to the public at 8:30 a.m. Things to know ahead of visiting: Flowers, sealed envelopes, or other offerings will NOT be allowed into the U.S. Capitol or Capitol Visitor Center. Cell phones as well as other electronic devices need to be turned off at the U.S. Capitol. Photos and videos are not allowed while in the Rotunda. There is no public parking on Capitol Grounds, so public transportation is encouraged. Read through the prohibited items list below. Prohibited items: It is encouraged to bring as little items as possible so that the process of security screening is quicker and the visitors line moves faster. These are the items that are prohibited: Bags exceeding the size of 18 wide x 14 high x 8.5 deep. Firearms to include replica guns and ammunition. Weapons (to include but not limited to): Black jack, sling shot, sand club, sandbag, knuckles, electric stun guns, knives of any size including razors and box cutters, martial arts weapons or devices. Staff may possess knives with blades 3 or less. Pointed objects to include but not limited to knitting needles, letter openers, and other pointed objects deemed a possible threat. Pens and pencils are permitted. This restriction does not apply to staff. Explosives and explosive devices to include, but not limited to, Molotov Cocktails, components of a destructive device, and fireworks. Mace and pepper spray. Liquid of any kind, including water and other beverages. This restriction does not apply to staff. Food of any kind, including fruit and unopened packaged food. This restriction does not apply to staff. Aerosol containers. Non-Aerosol spray except for prescribed medical needs. Sealed envelopes and packages. This restriction does not apply to staff. 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. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Public services for former president Jimmy Carter will begin Tuesday in Washington, D.C. Ahead of Carters state funeral Thursday the public will have two days to pay their respects to the former president in a city he called home for four years during his presidency. Great for him to be able to be here and for us to give honor for the service that he provided for our country, said Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kan.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas Congressman Ron Estes has a personal connection to Carter. My wife, Susan, her grandmother, was a cousin for Lillian Carter, who was President Carters grandmother, said Estes. Over the weekend services were held for the former president. Carter will lie in state in the Capitol rotunda on Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday all five living U.S. presidents are expected to attend his state funeral at the National Cathedral. Its a very, very sad moment, but also a moment for inspiration, said Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.). Colorado Congressman Jason Crow says Carter inspired his service to country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Carter is an inspiration to me. And when you think about servant leadership, which is a mantra that I learned in the Army, President Carter embodies that in so many ways, said Crow. There will be a private arrival ceremony on Tuesday afternoon with Carters family and members of Congress. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In a farewell to Americas longest-lived president, Jimmy Carters remains will make their final journey to Washington, D.C., marking a conclusion to a remarkable life that spanned a century. The 39th president, who passed away on December 29, 2024 at his home in Plains, Georgia, will receive one of the nations highest posthumous honorsthe tradition of lying in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. Here's everything to know about this historic occasion. Whats the History of the Rotunda? Tasos Katopodis - Getty Images The Rotunda, often described as the Capitols symbolic and physical heart, was built between 1818 and 1824. Located at the literal center of Congress, the Rotunda serves as the ceremonial crossroads between the House and Senate chambers. Connected by corridors leading south to the House of Representatives and north to the Senate, the space is flanked by the semi-circular National Statuary Hall (the former House chamber until 1857) to the south and the Old Senate Chamber to the northeasta room that served the Senate until 1859 and later the Supreme Court until 1935. Inspired by Romes ancient temple, Pantheon, but distinctly American in spirit, the Rotunda rises 180 feet from its floor of Seneca sandstone to its spectacular dome. Above, Constantino Brumidis breathtaking fresco The Apotheosis of Washington crowns the spaceits 15-foot-tall figures are painted with such precision that theyre as clear from the floor as they are up close. Getty Images Eight massive historical paintings trace pivotal moments in American history. Four Revolutionary period scenes commissioned from John Trumbull in 1817including the iconic " Declaration of Independence "are complemented by four scenes of early exploration added between 1840 and 1855, such as the "Landing of Columbus" and the " Baptism of Pocahontas." Who Gets to Lie in State? Joe Raedle - Getty Images The privilege of lying in state is not bestowed lightly. Since former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Clay became the first to receive this distinction in 1852, only 36 individuals have been granted this distinction, including 12 presidents. Notable figures who have lain in state include presidents like John F. Kennedy , Dwight D. Eisenhower, and most recently George H.W. Bush in 2018. Some families, including those of Harry Truman and Richard Nixon, have declined. In 2005, Rosa Parks became the first woman to lie in honor (a distinction from lying in state, which is reserved for government officials) in the Capitol Rotunda. What Will Happen During President Carters Ceremony? The ceremonial elements of lying in state follow a precise protocol. Military honor guards representing each branch of the armed forces maintain a constant vigil around the casket, changing guard every 30 minutes. Pool - Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Special Air Mission 39a designation chosen to honor his presidencywill carry Carter's remains from Dobbins Air Reserve Base to Joint Base Andrews. Before reaching the Capitol, the procession will make a stop at the U.S. Navy Memorial, acknowledging Carter's distinguished service as a nuclear submarine officer. Upon arrival, Carters casket will be carried up the Capitol steps by military body bearers and placed upon the Lincoln Catafalque the same wooden platform that bore Abraham Lincolns remains in 1865. The ceremony will feature eulogies from Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Bill Clark - Getty Images How Can the Public Visit? The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects from Tuesday evening through Thursday morning. The U.S. Capitol rotunda will be open to visitors from 7 p.m. EST on January 7 until midnight, and the public can begin to line up at 6 p.m. EST. On January 8th, visitation will reopen to the public starting at 7 a.m. EST and will remain open through Thursday, January 9th at 7 a.m. EST, according to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are no other events open to the public Thursday when Carter's body will move from the U.S. Capitol to the National Cathedral. President Biden has declared Thursday, January 9 a National Day of Mourning to coincide with the National Cathedral service on the same day. The state funeral for President Carter will start at the Washington National Cathedral at 10 a.m. EST. After the funeral, Carter's final journey will take him back to Plains, Georgia for a private service at Maranatha Baptist Churchwhere he taught Sunday School well into his 90sbefore his burial next to his beloved wife Rosalynn at their family home. You Might Also Like The Carter Center bid farewell to its founder Tuesday morning as former President Jimmy Carter started his final journey to Washington, D.C. As the U.S. Army Field Band from Fort Jackson, South Carolina played Hail to the Chief as pallbearers from all the branches of the military carried the casket with Carters remains from the Carter Center to the awaiting presidential hearse outside. Carters family, including his four children, stood at attention as the presidents remains were loaded into the hearse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, under the circle of flags at half-staff, the hearse pulled away taking the former president away from the Carter Center for the last time. As that happened, members of the Carter Center staff stood outside in the freezing cold for more than an hour to pay their final respects to the former president. I think the vision that President Carter set forward for all of us is our North Star, the Carter Centers Adam Weiss told Channel 2s Richard Elliot. He is in charge of the program that helped eradicate Guinea Worm blindness from the world. RELATED STORIES: While their leader may be gone, Weiss promised that the Carter Centers mission of promoting democracy and ending diseases around the world will not end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There will be no change at the Carter Center in terms of our commitment to preventing disease and empowering people to live their best life, Weiss said. As the hearse made its way from the Carter Center, the former presidents remains made its way to Dobbins Air Reserve Base to board Special Air Mission 39 to fly to Washington, DC. Nearly 200 guests arrived to pay their respects before Carters departure. The sun beamed down just as the presidential hearse arrived, a sign of warmth peeking through a somber moment. Carters family, Gov. Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens were among those who attended the ceremony before Carters departure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A long moment of silence never felt so meaningful. Its an honor to be here. A great opportunity, Navy Sailor Samuel Olivos told Channel 2s Michele Newell, who participated in the ceremony. Jimmy Carter laid down a foundation of greatness for this nation. We should respect his life and legacy. The ceremony included a 21-gun salute and the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence Band performed Carters favorite hymns, reflective of the life he lived. Jimmy Carter is a person who you should strive to be too. At the same time, we can never reach his level of greatness, Olivos said. Carters remains were then put onto Special Air Mission 39, where he was flown to Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, DC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former president will lie in state in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Building through Wednesday, before his state funeral at the National Cathedral on Thursday. Following the state funeral, he will then be brought back to Georgia for a private family funeral at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, and then his interment next to his wife Rosalynn Carter on the property of their home. Channel 2s Richard Elliot and Michele Newell contributed to this article. President Joe Biden and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm tour the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Flatirons Campus in Arvada, Colorado, Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021. (Adam Schultz/The White House/U.S. government works) This commentary originally appeared in Big Pivots. Jimmy Carter had an underappreciated role in Colorados story. It started in May 1978 when he announced that the Solar Energy Research Institute in Golden would get $100 million in federal funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody can embargo sunlight, Carter said. No cartel controls the sun. Its energy will not run out. It will not pollute the air; it will not poison our waters. Its free from stench and smog. The suns power needs only to be collected, stored and used. It was a rare umbrella day in Golden. Carters timing for his proclaimed Sun Day was off. But he was on the mark about solar energy in ways that we have yet to fully appreciate. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Carter had advanced schooling in nuclear energy, but by 1975 he was thinking about renewables. He invited Ron Larson, an electrical engineering professor from Georgia Tech, to share lunch and talk about renewable energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that time there wasnt much to photovoltaics, says Larson. It was over $100 a watt. Now its less than $1 a watt. Larson moved to Colorado in 1977 to work as SERIs first principal scientist and stayed in multiple roles in helping pivot our energy use. Since then, thousands have followed. One component of SERIs mission to advance use of solar energy was outreach to 300 builders and architects in Colorado to help them learn how to construct houses with lessened need for fossil fuels. John Avenson, an engineer with AT&T/Bell Labs, was among the beneficiaries. The house in Westminster that he built in 1981 faces south and has large windows coupled with effective shades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Facebook the day after Carters death, Avenson rued the widespread failure to acknowledge Carters early thinking. Every house built since then should have been this good or better but the program was cancelled by (President Ronald) Reagan, he wrote. Avensons house near Standley Lake Reservoir was built with a natural gas furnace. He rarely used it, his gas bills never surpassing $180 for a full year. After tweaking and new technology, he was finally satisfied the house would do fine at 20 below without the furnace. In 2016 he had Xcel Energy stub the gas line. When I visited him on New Years Eve, he was wearing a T-shirt and shorts. Im an Arizona kind of person, he said. He keeps the house at 72 to 78 degrees. It will be featured on a Jan. 25 broadcast on PBS. I asked Avenson about Carters death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oh, so sad, he replied. He influenced my life and didnt know it. Steve Andrews was also influenced by Carter. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he had used the GI Bill of Rights to take college classes in basic engineering. That led to an internship and then a job at SERI. He wrote the guidebook for the 1981 Denver Homebuilders annual Parade of Homes featuring a dozen passive-solar homes across the Denver metro area. Then, Andrews got laid off. As president, Reagan had no real use for renewable energy. He famously removed the 32 solar panels that Carter had placed atop the White House. He also halved SERIs budget. Andrews, a recent hire, was among the first to go. The mission of SERI was also narrowed, pushing outreach to the back burner. The director, Denis Hayes, was fired after accusing his bosses at the U.S. Department of Energy of being dull gray men in dull gray suits thinking dull gray thoughts. Later, under a former oilman, President George H.W. Bush, SERI was resurrected as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. NREL has now expanded to a staff of 3,675 employees and broadened its influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can it be mere coincidence that Colorado, in 2004, had the nations first voter-initiated renewable energy portfolio standard? Or that Colorado in recent years has adopted a dozen or more first-in-nation policies and regulations designed to curb greenhouse emissions? We might be guilty of parochial pride, but there can be no doubt that Colorado belongs in any national conversation about the pivot to a new energy economy, to use the title of former Gov. Bill Ritters center that is affiliated with Colorado State University. Ironically, passive-house building has gotten little traction. The economics are unassailable, and the technology just isnt that difficult. It does take basic site-planning. Andrews, in his post-SERI career, once calculated that 85% of houses in metro Denver face east or west. That results in unwanted summer heat, but little in winter, when it is wanted. Housing should face north and south. Colorado has decades of work ahead in decarbonizing its buildings. We need to remember what Jimmy Carter understood nearly 50 years ago. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Monday, Jan. 6, is the last day Former President and native Georgian Jimmy Carter lay in repose in Atlanta before his body departs for Washington D.C. People from all walks of life, from Savannah to California, traveled to the site. There were tears, hugs and people taking pictures and leaving flowers. One group that spoke to WSAVs Kaley Fedko had personal ties to President Carter: a group of teachers who taught his two great grandchildren at Mary Lin Elementary School. They travelled together to honor him today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the things that I noticed is hearing all of the accolades about President Carter and his kindness and his humanitarian vision and his empathy, said Denise Bringslid. Its just not shocking that his great grandchildren exhibit the exact same traits. They are incredibly kind, incredibly giving. Thats the whole Carter family. The Former Presidents body will depart at 6 a.m. on Tuesday to be taken to the United States Capitol where he will lie in state. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Officials have updated Tuesdays state funeral schedule for former President Jimmy Carter due to winter weather impacting the nations capital. The late presidents body will be escorted from the Carter Center in Atlanta to the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. Between five to 10 inches of snow fell across the Washington D.C. region on Monday. Todays events were scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m., but each ceremony has been pushed back approximately 90 minutes. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Tuesdays schedule includes a departure ceremony from the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta; a departure ceremony from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia; an arrival ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland; a funeral procession from the U.S. Navy Memorial to the U.S. Capitol; and an arrival ceremony and service at the U.S. Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol Tuesday night until Thursday morning, the day of his funeral services. Heres a breakdown of the timeline for Tuesday. Channel 2 Action News and ABC News will have special coverage throughout the day. TUESDAY, JAN. 7, 2025 7 a.m. Lying in Repose concludes. 11 a.m. A departure ceremony from the Carter Presidential Center. 11:30 a.m. The motorcade departs for Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia. 12:10 p.m. The late president and his family arrive at Dobbins Air Reserve Base and board Special Air Mission 39 after an arrival ceremony. 12:45 p.m. Special Air Mission 39 departs for Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2:15 p.m. Special Air Mission 39 arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, and Carters remains are transferred with ceremony to the hearse. 2:45 p.m. The motorcade departs for the U.S. Navy Memorial. 3:30 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. 4:10 p.m. The funeral procession begins marching up to the U.S. Capitol via Pennsylvania Avenue, turning left onto Constitution Avenue. 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 4:30 p.m. Congress pays their respects during a service in the Rotunda. 6 p.m. Carter begins lying in state while the military maintains a guard of honor. 6 p.m. to midnight Lying in state opens to the public. RELATED STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Jimmy Carter has arrived at the United States Capitol one last time. On Tuesday, Jan. 7, the former president's remains were transported from Georgia to Washington, D.C., where he was welcomed with a horse-drawn procession to the Capitol steps. Carter's casket will be on display under the Capitol dome until his state funeral on Thursday, Jan. 9, after which he'll return to his final resting place his longtime home in Plains, Ga. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Saying Goodbye to Jimmy Carter: See All the Moving Photos from the Former President's Funeral Services TING SHEN/AFP via Getty Jimmy Carter's casket is put on a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial on Jan. 7, 2025 Jimmy Carter's casket is put on a horse-drawn caisson at the U.S. Navy Memorial on Jan. 7, 2025 Carter's family accompanied his remains on board Special Air Mission 39, which departed Atlanta on Tuesday morning and arrived at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland early in the afternoon. The late president's casket was driven via motorcade to the U.S. Navy Memorial a nod to his military service and then transferred to a horse-drawn caisson that proceeded to the U.S. Capitol. Navy members and the U.S. Army Band also marched in the procession, and spectators lined the streets amid freezing temperatures to get a glimpse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: All About Jimmy Carters Humble Life Before Politics, Which Set the Stage for His Decades of Public Service MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty President Jimmy Carter's casket arrives at the U.S. Capitol steps on Jan. 7, 2025 President Jimmy Carter's casket arrives at the U.S. Capitol steps on Jan. 7, 2025 Military body bearers received Carter's casket outside of the Capitol on Tuesday afternoon and carried him into the rotunda. There, the 39th U.S. president will lie in state until Jan. 9, as members of the public are encouraged to pay their respects. The military will sustain a guard of honor throughout the public visitation. For more on the extraordinary life of Jimmy Carter, PEOPLE's new commemorative edition is now available. Brendan McDermid-Pool/Getty Jimmy Carter's flag-draped casket is brought to the U.S. Capitol by a horse-drawn caisson on Jan. 7, 2025 Jimmy Carter's flag-draped casket is brought to the U.S. Capitol by a horse-drawn caisson on Jan. 7, 2025 Carter's funeral arrangements began Saturday, Jan. 4, following his death on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state funeral started in Americus, Ga., at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center, where the late president's remains were held. The motorcade then paused in front of Carter's boyhood home, and the National Park Service paid tribute to him by ringing the historic farm bell 39 times. The late president then arrived in Atlanta at the Georgia State Capitol, after which he traveled to the Carter Presidential Center. Tuesday marked the end of nearly two and a half days of the former president lying in repose at the center. PEOPLE's commemorative issue in honor of former President Jimmy Carter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: How Jimmy Carter Helped Me Believe in the Impossible: Reflections on the Death of the Man From Plains (Exclusive) On Thursday, the National Funeral Service will commence in Carter's memory. After leaving the nation's capital, Carter's remains will be transported back to Georgia, where there will be a private funeral service at Maranatha Baptist Church. He will then return to the Carter residence accompanied by the public lining the motorcade route and the U.S. Navy's "Missing Man" formation flyover before a private interment ceremony concludes his funeral arrangements. Read the original article on People Existing programs provide mental health support for our first responders. However, funding this request will aim to enhance these programs accessibility and effectiveness while tackling the stigma around mental health in this community. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced a request for $3.6 million in funding to improve mental health care for Floridas first responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, dispatchers and Emergency Medical Services personnel. Read: WATCH: Florida Hooters waitress tries to flirt with officer during DUI arrest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) will work with lawmakers and stakeholders statewide to secure funding and develop a comprehensive mental health, peer support program and psychological services to support Floridas first responders. Read: Central Florida counties to open cold weather shelters this week Patronis said, First responders face unique challenges daily, dealing with traumatic situations that can impact their mental health. Serving as your CFO and State Fire Marshal, Ive seen first-hand the toll that tragedies like the Surfside building collapse and the Pulse Nightclub shooting took on these men and women. Unfortunately, our first responders see suffering every day, and it has led to an increase in issues like PTSD and suicide rates among these brave individuals. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. In Jimmy and Rosalynn Carters hometown of Plains, Georgia, there will be a new reminder of the renowned legacy of former President and late First Lady Rosalynn Carter: an eponymous post office. Signed into law less than a week after Jimmy Carters passing at the remarkable age of 100, H.R. 9600which proposed renaming the United States Postal Service facility at 119 Main Street in Plains as the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Officewas first brought to the House of Representatives by Georgia Representative Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. back in November. The bipartisan bill was co-sponsored by the remaining 13 members of Georgias Congressional delegation. The Senate version, which passed unanimously, was introduced by Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock. On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden signed the bill into law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the Plains Peanut Festival to the Governors Mansion, to the White Houseand to communities around the globethey remained grounded and humble, and Plains always remained home in their hearts, said Rep. Bishop, Jr., who spearheaded the effort, as reported by 11Alive WXIA in Atlanta. The Carters called the small Southern town of Plains, Georgia, home for most of their lives. The renamed post office is a tribute to their lifelong service, Senator Ossoff shared in a previous statement about the bill. The Carters have left an indelible mark on our nation and the world. A post office named in their honor in Plains is a small but fitting tribute to their legacy. A statement from Senator Warnock highlighted the Carters commitment to justice. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter led exemplary lives while serving Georgians and our nation and were fiercely committed to uplifting the lives of all Americans, he said. Renaming the Plains post office after both of these Georgia icons is a small nod to their triumphant legacy in the Peach State. This heartfelt tribute will be a reminder to all who pass through Plains of the extraordinary humanitarian, peace, and advocacy efforts of the Carters, who were happily married for over 77 years. Even as they traveled the globe and impacted communities far and wide, Jimmy and Rosalynn were committed to serving the town that raised them. In fact, up until 2019, Jimmy had a long-standing tradition of teaching Sunday school at Plains local Maranatha Baptist Church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Next time you are driving through the Peach State, take a moment to think of this wise couples continued impactand perhaps send off a letter from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Post Office on Main Street. Read the original article on Southern Living U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-South Dakota, talks to reporters about a proposed budget continuing resolution at the U.S. Capitol on Dec. 18, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) National political journalists are beating a path to John Thunes door since his recent elevation to U.S. Senate majority leader. He has responded with refreshingly boring interviews, including on Sundays episodes of Face the Nation and Meet the Press. Political junkies arent bored. Theyre parsing every word he says about the filibuster, Cabinet nominees, border security, taxes and the national debt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But to the average person whos grown accustomed to Trump-era politics, Thunes civility may sound a bit dull. His Sunday interviews did not include any name-calling, any assertion of alternative facts, or any demonization of the opposing party or the media. Thats a good thing. When the political pot is boiling over, somebody should turn down the heat. Maybe an old-fashioned Republican from South Dakota is the right guy for the job. Of course, hell soon be counteracted by a new-fashioned Republican from his own state. Thats South Dakota governor and next secretary of the federal Department of Homeland Security (pending Senate confirmation), Kristi Noem. Her recent book, No Going Back, showed exactly how un-Thune-like she is, with her sensational disclosures about fatally shooting a dog and a goat and her retracted tale of meeting North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. The controversy generated by those portions of the book obscured Noems central message. She thinks outrageous antics like Trumps are the right way to do politics now and forevermore and that drama-averse politicians like Thune although she didnt single him out specifically are ineffectual relics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, some Americans who still hope theres a chance of going back to a more civil brand of pre-Trump politics are investing a lot of hope in Thune. He has inspired some of that hope with answers to questions like the one Margaret Brennan of Face the Nation asked him about Trump. Will you tell him when you think hes wrong? Brennan asked. I will, Thune said. Before Democrats and moderate Republicans anoint Thune as their savior, theyll want to consider the rest of his response: And I think my job is to do everything I can to help him achieve success. Thune often gives a dual answer to questions about Trump. What he seems to be signaling is that hes willing to stand against the worst of the president-elects potential transgressions against the Constitution, the rule of law and common decency. But as he made clear to Brennan, Thune has the same set of objectives as Trump on a lot of policy matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of that means Thune has a tricky path to navigate, because hes likely to be criticized as insufficiently devoted to Trump and insufficiently opposed to him, sometimes simultaneously. Consider Thunes response to Kristen Welker on Meet the Press when she asked if he supports Trumps pledge to pardon people involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Thats ultimately going to be a decision that President Trump is going to have to make, Thune said, adding that hes focused on the future and not looking in the rearview mirror. Welker tried one more time, asking what message it would send if Trump pardons people who attacked police officers. Again, Thune evaded. The pardon authority exists with him, Thune said before pivoting to other topics. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a typically Thune response: careful, reserved, and mindful of the unforeseen consequences of saying too much. Hes always been like that, which is why its important to consider what he doesnt say. He didnt say he supports pardoning Jan. 6 rioters. Similarly, when Brennan and Welker asked about the fate of Trumps Cabinet nominees, Thune did not pledge unconditional support for all of them but said hell give them a fair confirmation process in the Senate. When asked if he supports or thinks its realistic to carry out Trumps plan to deport all of the estimated 11 million people living in the country illegally, Thune didnt say yes. He spoke of starting with deportations for unauthorized immigrants whove committed crimes or have pending deportation orders. And when Welker asked Thune to describe the state of his relationship with Trump, he didnt say it was good. He said its evolving. That was a response loaded with baggage including Thunes call for Trump to drop out of the 2016 presidential race after the release of the infamous Access Hollywood tape, and Trumps later attempt at convincing Noem to challenge Thune in a primary election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Thune wants any meaningful legislation signed into law in the next several years, his relationship with Trump will have to keep evolving. Lets just hope, for the sake of South Dakota and the country, that Thunes political style never evolves too far from the civility he displayed in his first major broadcast television interviews as majority leader. Watch the interviews John Thune, the newly minted Senate majority leader, seems like hes laying the groundwork to give one of Donald Trumps most disturbing Cabinet picks the green light. The South Dakota Republican has been portrayed, at times, as a wild card who might buck some of Trumps most unqualified and/or illiberal choices. If youre holding out hope for that, the senators appearance Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press could have been a bit deflating. When host Kristen Welker asked about Kash Patel the Trump loyalist picked to lead the FBI having a list of dozens of purported MAGA nemeses he thinks ought to be investigated, and whether Patel would prioritize national security over settling political scores, Thune tried to bypass the question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are you certain that Kash Patels priorities would be fighting crime, protecting national security, rather than settling political scores? Welker asked. Thunes rambling, evasive reply was filled with MAGA talking points: I think that he understands what his mission would be if he is successful in getting confirmed to that position at the FBI. The FBI is an agency that I think is in need of reform and needs a good makeover, so to speak, and probably a good amount of housecleaning when it comes to just the perception the American people have of it. And these institutions that the American people need to have confidence and trust in, I think that confidence and trust has largely eroded. And theres an opportunity to fix that. I think thats what I sat down with, met with him. I think he understands that 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 to the same. As you can see, Thune didnt actually answer the question. Saying Patel understands what his mission would be isnt the same as saying he understands that the FBIs mission is to protect Americans. So Welker gave Thune another shot, and he fared no better on the second try. When you say you think he does understand the mission, does that mean, yes, you do think he will put national security ahead of settling political scores? she asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thune said: Well, you know, in my conversations with him, and Ive not talked a lot about the meetings that Ive had, but I felt like he fully understood, I think, what is expected and I think what the president wants out of the agency. And, yeah, I feel confident that he gets what his job is going to be if he gets over there. And I think that as he goes through the process, more members will have an opportunity to ask the questions of him. But I think, at least based on my conversations with him, I felt very good about that. Yet another evasive answer from the leader of the Senate on whether its suitable for a presidential attack dog to lead the most powerful law enforcement agency in the country. Thune declined to say whether hell be a yes vote on Patel, saying hes not revealing his positions on Trumps selections at this moment. But he also said that he and the Senate are going to get the president his people as quickly as possible in the key positions where he wants them and by the sound of his answers about Patel, it seems theres next to nothing a Cabinet pick can do to spoil their chances. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) Johnson City Schools is working on implementing its five-year plan. The plan includes safety and academic improvements and mental health services. Superintendent Steve Barnett, who will soon leave his position to become the chief operating officer of the Niswonger Foundation, says there are still things to accomplish in the next couple of years after he leaves. Johnson City #9 nationally in U-Haul Growth Index Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have Town Acres Elementary School coming online, hopefully in the next year and a half, two years, which will provide a safer, larger space for students to learn and work, Barnett said. It takes into account the growth in the city that were seeing in our population, allowing for us to have more classroom space, more seats for students in our community as they go through elementary school and on to our two middles and our high school. During Monday nights Board of Education meeting, board members also discussed the search for a new superintendent. Chairman Jonathan Kinnick told News Channel 11 that he hopes the next superintendent will be like Barnett. Were looking for the best candidate, somebody that understands our schools, Kinnick said. As you heard tonight, were in the top ten of any category you can measure out there for schools in Tennessee. And we want to continue that and somebody that wants to lead us to make sure that we do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnett will serve as superintendent through 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Tuesday that cuts to Social Security and Medicare won't be part of the legislative package being worked out to fund President-elect Donald Trump's agenda. "No, the president has made clear that Social Security and Medicare have to be preserved," Johnson replied when asked if he was open to cutting the programs as part of the spending plans being worked out between House and Senate Republican leaders. "We have to look at all spending while maintaining The Republican Party will not cut benefits." Johnson said he was to meet with Senate Majority Leader John Thune on Tuesday to discuss ideas for a funding package that Republicans plan to pursue through "reconciliation" -- a fast-track process limited to spending and revenue legislation that needs only a majority rather than the 60-vote threshold in the Senate needed to pass legislation. Republicans hold a narrow majority in the House and a 3-seat majority in the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Trump backtracks from 'one big, beautiful bill' to fund his agenda Congressional Republicans have yet to decide on a reconciliation plan. Johnson is pushing Trump's desire for "one big, beautiful bill" to fund his agenda but Senate leaders and some conservatives in the House prefer that it be divided into two pieces of legislation. PHOTO: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson is shown during a press conference on Jan. 7, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) The negotiated package is expected to include several of Trump's top priorities, which include extending the tax cuts passed during his first term and addressing his immigration reforms, including more funding for Border Patrol and ICE. Trump has also pushed Congress to increase or eliminate the debt limit, though details of any plan remain unclear. Trump reiterated his preference for one bill when he spoke to reporters on Tuesday, but said he could live with two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Well, I like one big, beautiful bill, and I always have, I always will, he said. But if two is more certain, it does go a little bit quicker because you can do the immigration stuff early." PHOTO: President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Jan. 7, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (Evan Vucci/AP) Before Trump spoke, Johnson said he remains convinced that the one-bill strategy is the "best way to go." "I'm meeting today with Leader Thune about the two ideas," Johnson told reporters outside a closed GOP conference meeting Tuesday morning. "We still remain convinced over here that the one-bill strategy is the best way to go, but there's some senators who have different ideas." "They're all dear friends and colleagues, and we're going to work on this together. We will get the two chambers united on the same strategy. And I think the president still prefers 'one big, beautiful bill,' as he likes to say, and there's a lot of merit to that -- we could talk about the ins and outs of that maybe at our leadership press conference here." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: House passes Laken Riley Act as first bill of new Congress Senate Republican Whip John Barrasso said one of the key objectives in the meeting with Trump will be attempting to forge a clearer path on reconciliation. "He's going to be with Senate leadership as well as the entire Senate conference to talk about that exact thing tomorrow and how we get on the same page with the House," Barrasso said. Barrasso said a two-part plan that would deliver wins for Trump early in his presidency and allow for more time to address tax policy that doesn't expire until the end of the year, but the "goal is the same." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was a suggestion by John Thune -- this was before Christmas -- he said 'Let's get an early win on the border.' It was an issue in the election and it is a big issue for the American people and it is a big issue for national security, and we just thought we could get that done in a quicker fashion with a focus on that, on taking the handcuffs off of American energy as well as military strength, and then have the longer time to work on the financial component of this," Barrasso said. "This issues and the urgency of the tax issue doesn't really come into play until l the end of the year to the level that these other issues have the higher urgency right now." PHOTO: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Leader John Thune lead a Senate procession through the Rotunda at the Capitol, Jan. 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Jose Luis Magana/AP) Johnson also said he intends to handle the debt limit -- another Trump priority -- in the reconciliation process, which Republicans could try pass in both chambers without Democratic support. "That way, as the Republican Party, the party in charge of both chambers, we again get to determine the details of that. If it runs through the regular order, regular process then you have to have both parties negotiating. And we feel like we are in better stead to do it ourselves," he said. Johnson said members will have "lengthy" sessions to go over the plan for reconciliation since there are "broad opinions" on how to handle it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Republicans in this majority in the House and Senate our intention, our mission is to reduce spending in a meaningful way so we can get, restore fiscal sanity so raising the debt limit is a necessary step so we don't give the appearance that we're going to default in some way on the nation's debt," he added. MORE: 4 years after Jan. 6 insurrection, Kamala Harris certifies Trump's election win Johnson said this does not mean Republicans will "tolerate" spending more to the new debt limit because the "commitment" is to reduce spending, but the final formula has not been determined. The speaker also told reporters that he'll likely speak with Trump on Tuesday, ahead of the president-elect's visit to Capitol Hill on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm sure I'll speak with him today, probably this afternoon, and when he's in town, I'm sure we'll get together," Johnson said. "He and I both have a very busy schedule. He's trying to jam a lot into that visit on the Hill, so we're sympathetic to that." Johnson said. Johnson said there will be more discussions on Trump's agenda when he meets with House Republicans at Mar-a-Lago this weekend. "He's bringing in big groups of House Republicans to Mar-a-Lago over the weekend three days in a row to meet with and talk with all of our team members about what's ahead of us and the challenges and how we can accomplish all this together. So we're very excited about that. The president-elect is excited about it, and we all are as well," Johnson said. Senate Republicans are preparing to meet with President-Elect Trump in the Capitol tomorrow, and one of their key objectives will be attempting to forge a clearer path about how to proceed with advancing Trump's agenda through a fast-track budget tool called reconciliation, Republican Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo. said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He's going to be with Senate leadership as well as the entire Senate conference to talk about that exact thing tomorrow and how we get on the same page with the House," Barrasso said. Barrasso said today that the "goal is the same" regardless of whether Congress ultimately proceeds with a one-part bill, as Speaker Johnson and Trump have suggested, or with a two-part strategy championed by Majority Leader Thune. But he made the case for a two-part plan that would deliver wins for Trump early in his presidency and allow for more time to address tax policy that doesn't expire until the end of the year. "It was a suggestion by John Thune -- this was before Christmas -- he said 'Let's get an early win on the border.' It was an issue in the election and it is a big issue for the American people and it is a big issue for national security, and we just thought we could get that done in a quicker fashion with a focus on that, on taking the handcuffs off of American energy as well as military strength, and then have the longer time to work on the financial component of this," Barrasso said. "This issues and the urgency of the tax issue doesn't really come into play until l the end of the year to the level that these other issues have the higher urgency right now." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Republicans have slightly more breathing room on these measures than their House colleagues as they have a 3-seat GOP majority. In the House, Johnson might only be able to afford to lose a single Republican, so his preference for one large bill appears to be focused on getting his members together. "If you put a number of high priority issues together, then people are more apt to vote for the larger package, because even though there may be something in it that doesn't meet their preference, they're not going to be willing to vote against the larger measures that are such, such high priority for the American people and for President Trump," Johnson told Newsmax on Monday. Johnson says no cuts to Social Security and Medicare to fund Trump's agenda originally appeared on abcnews.go.com ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) Athens City Council, the Limestone County Commission and the Athens-Limestone County Public Library Board reached a joint agreement Monday afternoon. In the past, the city was in charge of appointing library board members. Under this new joint agreement, the board will consist of five appointed members, three of which will be chosen by the city and two chosen by the county. Off-duty Florence police officer injured in crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This agreement comes after county residents felt underrepresented on the board and concerned about childrens content in the library. This joint board will be able to control the expenditure of funds appropriated for the library, purchase books and elect a librarian. The board will be required to meet at least four times a year. The 20-year-long joint agreement will go into effect March 1. The City of Athens will provide $128,000 annually to the library board and the county will provide $80,000. The city and county will be obligated to continue to support the allocation of TVA and the required tax funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The library board members will not get paid for their service, though they may be reimbursed for any reasonable expenses accumulated in service. The board members will serve staggered four-year terms. The citys appointees to the board will be Craig Beasley with a four-year term, Allison McCormick with an initial three-year term and Shonda Brown with an initial two-year term. The countys appointees to the board will be Pammie Jimmar with a four-year term and Vicki Hereford with an initial three-year term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This agreement will be reviewed by the chairman and the mayor at least once every three years. The current library board chairman, Chris Anderson also announced he will step down from his position during the library board meeting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6How to comment People wishing to obtain additional information on the proceeding, receive a copy of EPA's Consolidated Rules, review the proposed consent agreement/final order, comment upon the proposed penalty assessment, or otherwise participate in the proceeding should contact the regional hearing clerk, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7, at r7_hearing_clerk_filings@epa.gov or 913-551-7972. Reference Docket No. CWA-07-2023-0140. To view the legal the legal consent agreement, go to https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-12/joplin-epa-tsd.pdf. The deadline to comment is Friday. The Joplin 44 Petro Truck Stop has agreed to pay a fine of more than $186,000 to the Environmental Protection Agency over alleged violations of the federal Clean Water Act at its location at 4240 S. Highway 43 near the intersection of Highway 43 and Interstate 44. The EPA said in a written release that the Joplin truck stop and the Iowa 80 truck stop in Walcott, Iowa, agreed to pay a total of $390,784 in fines to resolve alleged violations at both locations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both stations are owned by the Iowa 80 Group Inc. The site in Iowa is advertised as the world's largest truck stop. The EPA said the stations failed to develop and implement a spill prevention, control and countermeasure plan or facility response plan as required by the Clean Water Act. At the Joplin 44 truck stop, the EPA said it "alleges that Respondent (truck stop) failed to fully prepare and implement an adequate SPCC Plan and failed to prepare an FRP. Respondent has reached agreement with EPA on the terms of a proposed Consent Agreement/Final Order which would resolve this matter. Under the proposed Consent Agreement/Final Order, Respondent will pay a civil penalty of $186,642." The summary said the public can send comments about the settlement to the EPA until Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Facilities that store 1,320 gallons or greater of oil products in aboveground storage tanks are subject to SPCC regulations," the EPA said in the written release. "Such plans require, among other things, proper containment to control petroleum releases, inspections of tanks and piping, and integrity testing of petroleum storage equipment. In response to EPA's findings, the facilities revised their SPCC plans." EPA Region 7 spokesperson Madelyn Bremer said that in order to certify present compliance at Joplin 44 in the consent agreement and final order, the facility underwent tank inspections, as required by SPCC regulations, which revealed the need for repairs. Bremer said as a result of those findings, repairs were made to address internal lining and coating failures on the nozzles of the large above-ground storage tank at the facility. Heather DeBaillie, vice president of operations and marketing with the Iowa 80 Group, said the EPA inspected the two locations in 2023 and "alleged several deficiencies with our Spill Control and Containment plans and certain FRP paperwork." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have agreed to a settlement with the EPA," DeBaillie said. "Our SPCC plans are updated, and our paperwork is now prepared correctly. This was not related to a spill." Bremer confirmed that the inspections were "not related to any unauthorized discharges." The Joplin 44 Petro also is getting a major upgrade, with the company filing a $15 million building permit with the city of Joplin last year for the work. Delia Meier, a senior vice president for the company, said it includes a 20,000-square-foot expansion that will create room for more restaurants and customers in the food court. She described Petro as a "small city" that gets between 4,000 and 5,000 visitors a day, has 220 employees, and is open 24 hours a day every day of the year. Gov. Josh Stein, shown here signing an executive order during his first week in office to speed recovery in Hurricane Helene impacted counties, signed another order on Thursday committing his administration to the protection of abortion rights. (Photo courtesy of the Governor's Office.) For some politicians, the rise to political power is meteoric and surprising. Donald Trumps sudden ascent from conspiracy-theory-peddling reality TV host to the presidency is undoubtedly the most notable example of this phenomenon, but there have been others in recent years. Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger and wrestler Jesse Ventura won the governorships of California and Minnesota in their first and only runs for public office. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg went straight from the corporate boardroom to the New York mayors mansion. And Congress has long been littered with senators and representatives for whom ego and celebrity rather than governmental experience were their chief attributes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Carolina has largely been immune to this phenomenon. Jesse Helms went from TV commentator to the U.S. Senate, but he had worked actively in politics for decades before that and had served on the Raleigh City Council. And while John Edwards leapt directly into the Senate in his first run for office, he came to it with a formidable reputation in the world of law. Meanwhile, no North Carolinian has become governor over the last century without prior experience in elected office. And the states new governor, Josh Stein, is cut from the same cloth. Indeed, to many whove been paying attention to state politics in recent decades, it has long seemed that Stein much like former Gov. Roy Cooper had been groomed for, and destined to occupy, the governors mansion for many years. As Spectrum News host Loretta Boniti detailed recently in a glowing profile, not only has Stein spent most of his professional career in public service including the last 16 in elected office as a state senator and Attorney General hes someone who was raised in the world of public service and the broader movement for social justice from a young age. His father Adam was partner in a legendary and barrier shattering civil rights law firm and his mother Jane has long been a highly visible progressive advocate and activist. His two siblings Gerda and Eric have both pursued successful careers in, respectively, criminal justice reform and consumer protection, and he even met his wife Anna herself a public servant when they were both interns in the state Attorney Generals office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But, of course, theres more to being a successful governor than ones own personal background. Experience, intelligence, a demonstrated commitment to hard work and making government work for all, an instinct for finding common ground, and a record of accomplishment in past offices are also good indicators, and here too, Stein seems well-positioned for success. In addition to having spent 16 active years in public office, Stein also enjoyed a highly successful tenure leading the attorney generals Office of Consumer Protection, as well as a stint on Capitol Hill working on Edwards Senate staff. Hes also become especially over the past year an accomplished public communicator who can fire up an audience and communicate well via video. Now add to all this that the new governor is, by all indications, a happy (and even rather nerdy) husband, father, and son, for whom theres never been a hint of scandal or self-dealing, and his prospects for success over the next eight years would seem bright. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only problem in all of this, of course, is a rather sizable impediment to progress located a few blocks down the street from the governors mansion known as the General Assembly. As they did throughout Coopers term and, indeed, during Pat McCrorys four years and Bev Perdues last two before that, Republican leaders of our states gerrymandered legislature remain hellbent on treating Stein like a hostile enemy to be fought and dominated at every turn. The process commenced before he was sworn in with the enactment of a new series of power grabs designed to enfeeble the governors office and seems certain to continue going forward. And while Democrats technically broke the GOPs veto-proof supermajority in the state House in the November election a development that should boost Steins power and influence the margin remains razor thin and extremely wobbly. And given that Republicans consistently eschewed good faith negotiations with Cooper during the years in which he could reliably sustain vetoes, its likely foolish to imagine that theyll start behaving responsibly in 2025. The new Trump administrations likely efforts to bludgeon Democratic governors on any number of issues from immigration to the environment to disaster relief will serve as a bonus burden. That said, all hope is far from lost. Despite similar obstacles, Cooper accomplished much during his two terms including saving thousands of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic and the monumental achievement of expanding Medicaid and theres no reason to think that, with enough hard work and truth-telling, Stein cant do something similar. His early, laser-like focus on western North Carolinas storm recovery is a promising sign. In short, the task is huge and the roadblocks formidable, but Josh Stein has everything it takes to be a successful and with a little luck, great governor. Heres wishing him that luck. A reporter who ended online speculation that Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk was posing as an ardent fan has reportedly been temporarily banned from the social media site, and links to her story have been restricted. In one of the the latest dramas surrounding Musk, suspicions arose that a poster on X named Adrian Dittman, who sounds like Musk and regularly defends him, might have been the South African-born billionaire himself, using a so-called sock-puppet account. However, Jacqueline Sweet, a reporter at the Spectator, determined that Dittman is actually a real person living in Fiji. Elon Musk reportedly banned a reporter from X who proved he wasnt using an alt account to boost his own messages (PA Wire) Sweet published her findings, but Musk seemed to contradict them by posting on X that "I am Adrian Dittman." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's time the world knew. Left by itself, it looks like Musk was just having some fun and playing along with the drama. But despite his projected indifference, it appears the X boss was unhappy with Sweet's reporting. At some point after he became aware of the story, Musk's X reportedly banned Sweet's account for a month allegedly for "doxing," according to Sweet and she claims that links to the Spectator article about Dittman have been restricted across the site. Sweet provided a statement to The Independent saying: I am disappointed that X is censoring the story and has frozen my account, because our reporting was newsworthy, balanced, researched and careful to not expose anyones personal information such as social media handles or addresses. Anonoymous accounts are often written about if they are newsworthy and the story is in the public interest, and with Musk and the Adrian Dittmann account heavily involved in American politics, this reporting was fair and not doxing as Xs terms define it. As a journalist, using X is important to my work so I am hopeful Musk will return to his free speech ideals and stop censoring me, and the story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her post about Dittman and Musk had amassed 1.5 million views when it was taken down. When he bought Twitter, he insisted he was buying the site due to issues with free speech and transparency. Despite calling himself a "free speech absolutist," Musk has been accused of banning or restricting accounts he personally takes issue with in the past. It appears Musk's response to the article may be borne of those same tendencies. When an X user attempts to click on Sweet's article, a message pops up warning readers "this link may be unsafe." The warning continues: "The link you are trying to access has been identified by X or our partners as being potentially spammy or unsafe, in accordance with X's URL Policy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The message lists the categories that a link might fall into to generate such a warning, including "spammy links that mislead people or disrupt their experience." A big blue button under the message will navigate users away from the Spectator article, while the only option for continuing is by clicking a tiny blue hyperlink attached to the word "continue." Critics have accused Musk ofcensoring Sweets reporting. Andrew Kerr, an investigative reporter for the Free Beacon, tweeted: "Don't say anything bad about Elon it's against the rules." The Independent has contacted X for comment, Trump has won three sentencing delays since his historic May 30 felony conviction in Manhattan. On Monday, Trump sought a fourth delay of his hush-money sentencing, now set for Friday. A judge rejected that request. President-elect Donald Trump failed on Monday to win an immediate halting of Friday's sentencing date for his Manhattan hush-money conviction. In turning down what would have been Trump's fourth delay of his sentencing date, the trial judge, New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan, said most of the president-elect's arguments were a repetition of those he's raised "numerous times in the past." Trump's defense lawyers still have the rest of the week to fight the sentencing date and the conviction itself while pursuing a state-level appellate petition. The petition was also filed Monday and challenges what Trump's lawyers call "this politically-motivated prosecution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan's decision shifts the focus of Trump's sentencing-delay efforts to the appellate division, which can decide to hear his challenge either before or after Friday or simply send the case back to Merchan for sentencing as scheduled. The filing asks the state Appellate Division, First Judicial Department, for the chance to be heard on January 27, when they would argue against Merchan's two recent refusals to dismiss the case. On December 16, Merchan rejected Trump's request to toss the case presidential-immunity grounds. Late last week, the judge rejected Trump's request to toss the case in the interest of justice. The president-elect's Appellate Division efforts will focus on those two Merchan decisions. "The Supreme Court's historic decision on immunity, the state constitution of New York, and other established legal precedents mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed," Trump said through spokesman Steven Cheung. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan's refusal to move the sentencing date on Monday was the latest loss in Trump's two-year battle to free himself from his sole criminal conviction. Repeatedly since before his 2023 indictment, Trump's lawyers have asked state and federal judges to dismiss his hush-money prosecution, citing grounds of presidential immunity, prosecutorial and judicial bias, and most recently the interest of justice given his November election win. Trump continues to fight to clear his rap sheet now despite Merchan revealing last week that Friday's sentencing will likely result in zero punishment. State sentencing guidelines allow Merchan to sentence Trump to anywhere from no jail up to four years in prison on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Merchan said last week that he is inclined to hand down a sentence of no punishment at all no jail, no probation, no fines, no community service, instead granting what's called an unconditional discharge in recognition of the demands of the presidential transition and his pending second term in office. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg did not oppose a no-jail sentence. In writing Merchan on Monday to oppose a fourth sentencing delay, Bragg revealed that Trump has elected to appear virtually if Friday's sentencing happens. A spokesperson for Bragg did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A jury in May found that throughout his first year in office, Trump ordered that 34 Trump Organization records be altered to retroactively hide a $130,000 hush-money payment that silenced porn actress Stormy Daniels 11 days before the 2016 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to Merchan on Monday, Bragg urged the judge to proceed with Friday's sentencing, "given the strong public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings." Besides, it's Trump's own fault that his sentencing will happen just 10 days before his inauguration, Bragg said. "He should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused," the DA said. This would have been the fourth sentencing delay Merchan has granted Trump three sentencing delays in the months since his May 30 conviction. The first delay allowed the parties time to respond to the US Supreme Court's July 1 opinion granting presidents broad immunity from prosecution. Sentencing was pushed back a second time after Trump complained the new date was too close to the November election, and it was moved a third time to let the parties respond to Trump's win. Read the original article on Business Insider Jan. 7MORRISON A Rock Falls man's trial will proceed next week after a Whiteside County judge on Monday denied the state's motion to delay the trial as prosecutors await bullet casing test results and determine the whereabouts of a crucial witness. Johnathon P. Parker, 40, will stand trial beginning Tuesday, Jan. 14, on one count of aggravated battery/discharging a firearm, two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of being a felon in possession of a weapon. All the charges stem from an October shooting in the 900 block of West Fifth Street in Rock Falls. Police were dispatched to that location at 2:15 a.m. Oct. 28 on a report of a person who had been shot. When officers arrived, they found a man with a gunshot wound inside a residence, according to an Oct. 28 news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initial investigation showed the man was shot outside the residence and the shooter fled on foot. The injured person was taken to CGH Medical Center for treatment of a non-life threatening injury, police said. Parker was taken into custody Nov. 2 in the 1600 block of Riverdale Road, Rock Falls, after a 10-hour standoff over two days with police that included him running into a timber near Sterling and sliding down the river bank and into the Rock River. Police said Whiteside County deputies later received an anonymous tip that Parker was hiding in a trailer at 1600 Riverdale Road. Police set up a perimeter and negotiated for several hours with negative results. They then obtained a search warrant, contacted the Illinois State Police SWAT Team and secured the area until Illinois state troopers arrived. After negotiations with state police, Parker exited the trailer and was taken into custody. Parker has been held in Whiteside County Jail since his arrest and has been moving toward a Jan. 14 trial date. At a Dec. 20 pretrial conference, Whiteside County State's Attorney Colleen Buckwalter and defense attorney Cristina Buskohl both told the judge they were ready for trial, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But during a jury pre-trial hearing Monday, Whiteside County Circuit Court Judge James Heuerman heard a motion filed by Buckwalter to continue the case because the Rock Falls Police Department needs more time to investigate. Buckwalter said she would be willing to allow Parker to be let out of jail on pretrial release if the judge continued the case. Defense attorney James Mertes objected to the request, saying the motion was too ambiguous and the defense team needed more information about why Buckwalter was asking for the delay. He also said the request leads one to wonder about what deficiencies exist within the Rock Falls Police Department. He said his concern was that the delay could be because a crucial witness whom he said is homeless had not been located by investigators. Mertes also was concerned the state had not given that witness' contact information to him. Buckwalter confirmed the witness has not been located; the witness, she said, had given police his telephone number, but that number no longer works. Mertes said if the witness cannot be located, then the motion should be one in which the case is dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mertes also said that if pretrial release were to be granted to Parker, he may wind up in jail anyway, since Mertes said Parker possibly was wanted on a warrant from Rock Island County and could be arrested by that agency after release from Whiteside County. Heuerman asked Buckwalter whether she thought Parker could refuse being released from jail, which could be a problem since he is being detained under the Pretrial Fairness Act. Parker also demanded a speedy trial shortly after his arrest. "He could put you in a real bind," Heuerman said. That discussion ended up being moot, since Heuerman ultimately decided the trial will start Jan. 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't see a realistic way that I can grant your motion," Heuerman said of Buckwalter's request to delay. He did grant two motions made by Mertes, one that will keep witnesses from being in the courtroom during other witness testimony and another allowing Parker to be in court without restraints or indicia that signifies he is a prisoner. Under a ruling by Heuerman, if Parker testifies he can be asked about his 2021 possession of a stolen vehicle conviction. Three days before the Rock Falls shooting, Parker was being held in the Whiteside County Jail in Morrison on charges of violating probation in a 2021 stolen vehicle case. He had pleaded guilty in April 2022 to possession of a stolen vehicle and was sentenced to 180 days in jail and 24 months of probation. He appeared in custody Oct. 25, 2024, at the Whiteside County Courthouse and was released subject to a prior pretrial release conditions order. Prosecutors will not be allowed to ask Parker questions about a 2017 attempted arson case in Ogle County. Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. A Jan. 2 legal filing showed that Judge Wendy Berger no longer is presiding over a nightlife-related case filed by several downtown bars and clubs against the city of Orlando and Orlando Police Department. Berger and Magistrate Judge Embry J. Kidd previously were assigned the case. Orlando attorney Joel Leppard said Berger has a double case load, so the change could be due to responsibilities being reassigned, part of routine administrative procedures to balance caseloads amongst judges. Further, he said, such changes happen a bit more in January than at other times of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Downtown Orlando brewery officially announces closure after 10 years Attorneys for the defendants did not respond to a request for comment prior to publication. Robert Peck, the plaintiffs attorney, concurred with Leppard. 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. (NewsNation) Trump-appointed judge Aileen Cannon ruled that special counsel Jack Smiths report on the federal classified document case against President-elect Donald Trump cannot be released pending more court proceedings. The move came after Trumps attorneys demanded Attorney General Merrick Garland leave the release of the report up to the incoming administration. Cannon dismissed the classified documents case against Trump in July, her ruling saying Smith was illegally appointed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Live: Trump speaks after sentencing delay denied in NYC case Smiths report was expected to be released imminently before objections by Trumps lawyers. Trumps attorneys objected to the release, saying the report would be one-sided. Other cases against Trump have also been upended. The Department of Justice dropped all charges against Trump in a federal case regarding his actions during the Jan. 6 riots. In Georgia, a state case against him stalled after a judge ruled Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis should be disqualified from prosecuting. However, Trump is still facing legal hurdles with the news breaking after a New York judge denied a request from Trumps attorneys to delay his Friday sentencing in a hush-money case where he was convicted of 34 felonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back 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 NewsNation. Rudy Giuliani was held in contempt Monday for failing to comply with discovery requirements in his ongoing defamation case brought by two Georgia election workers. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman slammed the disgraced politico for his blithe disregard of court orders, and said his behavior during discovery had been preposterous. Giuliani had been ordered to pay 2020 election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea Moss $148 million for repeatedly defaming them as part of Donald Trumps election fraud conspiracies. But the ex-mayor was less than forthcoming in forking over the money and assets that he owed. Liman said that Giuliani has testified that he did not respond because he suspected the motives of plaintiffs counsel. That is not an excuse for violating the courts orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More important, as the Court informed the defendant, if there was reason to believe the plaintiffs counsel misused discovery or would misuse discovery, he could raise that with the court. It was not an excuse to take the law into his own hands, Liman continued. It seems that Liman had had enough of Giulianis screwing around Monday. At one point during proceedings, Giulianis attorney asked if he could explain whether he violated any court orders, according to MSNBCs Adam Klasfeld. When the plaintiffs lawyers objected, Liman allowed it, noting that the witnesss self-serving statement carries limited weight. Last week, Giuliani appeared in court to determine whether he needed to hand over his $3.5 million Florida condominium to the plaintiffs. Hed claimed that the condo was his permanent residence, granting it homestead protections from debt collectors, but lawyers for Freeman and Moss argued that he was lying about the property. For his part, Giuliani seemed more worried how his courtroom sketch would turn out. AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Judith Ann Livermore, 85 of Austintown, passed away early Thursday morning, January 2, 2025, at St. Elizabeth/Mercy Health Medical Center, Youngstown. Judith was born on April 14, 1939, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late George and Dorothy (Burndt) Fleet. Find obituaries from your high school She was a lifelong resident of the area, graduating from Chaney High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judith spent over 50 years as a hairdresser, proudly operating her own beauty shop. She cherished her time playing cards with her high school friends, gathering monthly to play at one anothers homes. After their children were grown, Judith and her club girls enjoyed monthly dinners at local restaurants. She also loved crocheting, baking, and, most of all, spending time with her children and grandchildren. Judith was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Livermore, whom she married on November 7, 1958 and who passed away on October 21, 2019. She is survived by two sons, Donald (Lynda) Livermore and Robert (Lori) Livermore; a daughter, Lacey Livermore; four grandchildren, Donald, Sydney, Tyler and Taylor; and four great-grandchildren, Sephera, Maverik, Duke and Graftin. Judith also leaves behind two brothers, George Fleet and Robert Fleet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides her parents and her husband, Judith was preceded in death by her daughter, Erin Livermore and a brother, John Fleet. Friends may call on Saturday, January 11, at Lane Family Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, from 1:30 2:15 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:30 p.m. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Judith Ann Livermore, please visit our flower store. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jury selection started Monday in the case of Calvin Crew, the man accused in the brutal murder of his Uber driver. Crew, dressed in a blue shirt with his hair pulled back, sat between his attorneys as potential jurors were interviewed by both sides. RELATED: Disturbing dashcam video showing moments leading up to the murder of Uber driver released in court According to prosecutors, the 25-year-old shot and killed Christina Spicuzza in February of 2022, after she picked him up for Uber. Disturbing dash cam video obtained by police shows Spicuzza, a mom of four, pleading for her life. Investigators say Crew had been attempting to rob her, stealing her phone in order to access financial accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: ONLY ON 11: Homicide detectives in Uber driver murder talk abundance of evidence that led to arrest Despite the heinous allegations he faces, Crew appeared relaxed and engaged in the jury selection process. Candidates can no longer expect to be asked about their positions on the death penalty, as prosecutors recently withdrew their intention to seek capital punishment. RELATED: Missing Uber driver found dead in woods was shot, police say Our crew in the courtroom could however hear attorneys asking potential jurors about news coverage of the murder, and how their existing knowledge of the case could influence their perspective. By Mondays lunch break, 19 had been interviewed. The selection process is expected to last several days. The trial is currently scheduled for February. (WKBN) The Justice Department is suing six large landlords for what it described as a pricing scheme that harms renters. The Justice Department, with its state co-plaintiffs, filed an amended complaint Tuesday in its antitrust lawsuit against RealPage to sue Greystar Real Estate Partners LLC (Greystar); Blackstones LivCor LLC (LivCor); Camden Property Trust (Camden); Cushman & Wakefield Inc and Pinnacle Property Management Services LLC (Cushman); Willow Bridge Property Company LLC (Willow Bridge) and Cortland Management LLC (Cortland). Together, these landlords operate more than 1.3 million units in 43 states and the District of Columbia, according to the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The antitrust lawsuit was filed against RealPage in May, accusing the software company of allowing landlords to coordinate to hike rental prices. RealPage filed a motion to dismiss the case Dec. 3 saying that it had no standing. The government replied, and now a February deadline has been set for responses to the governments opposition. RealPage is not the only company that offers an algorithmic tool to help property managers set prices, but the lawsuit says the company is the largest in the industry. RealPage has noted that landlords are free to reject the price recommendations generated by its software. But the Justice Department alleges that doing so often requires a series of steps, including a conversation with a RealPage pricing adviser who can stop property managers from acting on emotions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Departments complaint alleges the landlords, along with RealPage, colluded to set their rents using each others competitively sensitive information. The complaint cited the practice of call arounds, in which property managers shared their rents, occupancies and pricing strategies with competitors, as well as participating in user groups hosted by RealPage in which the Justice Department alleges landlords discussed how to modify the softwares pricing methodology and their own pricing strategies. The Justice Department also announced a proposed consent decree that, if approved by the court, would resolve its claims against Cortland, a landlord that manages over 80,000 rental units in 13 states. Under the proposed consent decree, Cortland would cooperate in the Justice Departments investigation and litigation and be barred from using competitors competitively sensitive data to train or run any pricing model and using third-party software or algorithms to price apartments without the supervision of a court-appointed monitor. Co-plaintiffs in the case are the Attorneys General of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee and Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greystar is headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina; LivCor and Cushman & Wakefield (whose residential property management business formerly operated independently as Pinnacle) are headquartered in Chicago; Willow Bridge (formerly known as Lincoln Residential) is headquartered in Dallas; Camden is headquartered in Houston; and Cortland is headquartered in Atlanta, according to a news release from the Justice Department. The Associated Press and Patty Coller contributed to this story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Blake Lively's legal team has accused Justin Baldoni of "more" retaliatory attacks following her sexual harassment complaint. The actress' lawyers are calling out Baldoni for seemingly trying to distract from the allegations made against him by placing "blame" on Lively. This comes after Blake Lively filed a complaint alleging that Justin Baldoni launched a PR campaign to damage her reputation, which has caused harm to her businesses. Blake Lively's Legal Team Calls Out Justin Baldoni MEGA Lively's legal team is speaking out against Justin Baldoni, accusing him of launching "more attacks" at the actress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to People Magazine, her lawyers strongly defended her sexual harassment claims, stating that they are "backed by concrete facts." "This is not a 'feud' arising from 'creative differences' or a 'he said/she said' situation," the lawyers noted. They continued, "As alleged in Ms. Lively's complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set." They also accused Baldoni and his team of escalating attacks on Lively since she filed her complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing," they said, adding: "Sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry." The Lawyers Claim Justin Baldoni Is Trying To Distract From The Allegations By 'Blaming The Victim' MEGA Breaking down typical manipulation tactics used by perpetrators, Lively's lawyers claimed that Baldoni and his team are trying to accuse the actress of being the cause of the issues to "distract" from the allegations brought against him. They said, "A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to 'blame the victim' by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied." Lively's legal team continued, "Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim. These concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, Lively's legal team made it clear that media statements would not affect the merits of her case. "Most importantly, media statements are not a defense to Ms. Lively's legal claims," they noted. "We will continue to prosecute her claims in federal court, where the rule of law determines who prevails, not hyperbole and threats." The Actress Says Her Businesses Have Been Harmed By A 'Smear Campaign' MEGA In a complaint filed on New Year's Eve, Lively alleged that Baldoni's smear campaign caused significant "financial harm" to her businesses that "continues to the present." According to the "IF" actress, the backlash she faced has severely impacted her business ventures, including her haircare line, Blake Brown, and her two beverage brands, Betty Buzz and Betty Booze, resulting in substantial sales losses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal documents obtained by the Daily Mail state that sales for Blake Brown plummeted by as much as 78% following the onset of the "social manipulation campaign." "Based on internal sales projections, the sudden and unexpected negative media campaign launched against Ms. Lively depressed retail sales of Blake Brown products by 56-78 percent," the lawsuit read. It further argues that this sharp decline in sales "was completely at odds with the high satisfaction scores that Blake Brown products received in the significant consumer testing performed before launch or its initial success after launch." Blake Lively And Justin Baldoni's Lawsuit Drama MEGA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The actress starred alongside Baldoni in "It Ends With Us," a film released in August 2024 and now streaming on Netflix. However, following months of rumors of a feud between the co-stars, Lively filed a complaint with the California Civil Rights Department, claiming Baldoni had sexually harassed her on set and created a toxic work environment. The day after her complaint, The New York Times published a piece detailing how Baldoni allegedly enlisted a crisis PR firm to "bury" Lively's reputation and undermine her credibility. In response, the 37-year-old actress sued Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baldoni countered by filing a $250 million defamation lawsuit against the publication, accusing them of promoting an "unverified and self-serving narrative." The actor's lawyer, Bryan Freedman, has also announced their plans to release text messages between Baldoni and Lively. Justin Baldoni Plans To Release Texts In Response To Blake Lively's Lawsuit MEGA Baldoni's attorney, Freedman, revealed in a statement to NBC that Baldoni intends to pursue legal action directly against Lively. He said, "We plan to release every single text message between the two of them [sic]. We want the truth to be out there. We want the documents to be out there. We want people to make their determination based on receipts." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lively's lawsuit reportedly includes screenshots of text messages between Baldoni and his associates, Abel and Nathan, detailing an alleged coordinated effort to damage her reputation. Freedman criticized the disclosure of these private exchanges, arguing that the messages lack "critical context." The lawyer claims that the full-text exchange, which they will release, contradicts Lively's claims that Baldoni entered her trailer without permission while she was undressed or breastfeeding. (NewsNation) A New York Times article outlining the alleged sexual harassment endured by actress Blake Lively demonstrates a reckless disregard for truth, according to Justin Baldonis attorney, Bryan Freedman. The legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Freedman joined NewsNations CUOMO on Monday to discuss the ongoing legal battle between Lively and her It Ends With Us co-star and director, including what he called unbelievable text messages cited by the publication. Its important to note that NewsNations Chris Cuomo has worked with Freedman before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zendaya and Tom Holland are engaged: Report He is my lawyer, and he is a trusted friend and mentor to me, Cuomo noted before the interview Monday. I want you to know that going into this. Freedman says the evidence in We Can Bury Anyone: Inside a Hollywood Smear Machine, is primarily text messages and emails many of which he says were skewed or taken out of context, allegedly by Livelys team. One example he shared with Cuomo was a claim by Lively that Baldoni walked in on her breastfeeding in her trailer contradicted by a corresponding text where she informed him she was pumping and that he should come by to practice lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its in a text message. They reviewed 1,000 pages, Freedman said. Why didnt they find that one? He pointed to the publications participation in filing a complaint against Baldoni and other defendants, claiming that the Times had a copy of that complaint before it was filed with the Civil Rights Division and encouraged them to file the complaint. Freedman also said the outlet reached out for comment around 9:50 p.m. on a Friday, right before Christmas, leaving Baldonis team only 15 hours, 14 hours to formulate a response. That wasnt enough time, Freedman said, to address the validity of thousands of messages and accusations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Home Improvement star Zachery Ty Bryan choked childrens mother before arrest: report And its shocking, actually, that The New York Times wouldnt follow up and say, Well, you know, we have text messages saying this, and wed like to know, are they real? Do you have anything that shows that theyre different?' Freedman said. We live in a digital age. You cant trust everything that you see. Why couldnt The New York Times ask that question? he added. Freedman told NewsNation he plans to release what the young kids call receipts and make the text messages between Baldoni and Lively fully public. Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni: Lawsuit timeline ,On Dec. 31, Lively sued Baldoni along with several others. The federal lawsuit, filed in New York, alleges harassment and a coordinated smear campaign following her discussion of on-set treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Livelys suit said that Baldoni, the films production company Wayfarer Studios and others engaged in a carefully crafted, coordinated, and resourced retaliatory scheme to silence her, and others, from speaking out. JERSEY CITY, NJ JANUARY 12: Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively are seen on the set of It Ends with Us on January 12, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) FILE Blake Lively poses for photographers upon arrival at the UK Gala Screening for the film It Ends With Us on Thursday, Aug, 8, 2024 in London. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP, File) FILE Justin Baldoni attends the world premiere of It Ends with Us at AMC Lincoln Square on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in New York. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File) Her legal action came just hours after Baldoni and other defendants sued The New York Times for libel regarding its story, published Dec. 21, 2024. The Times story detailed a sexual harassment complaint against Baldoni, among other on-set allegations. Just days later, Baldoni was hit with a lawsuit from his former publicist Steph Jones accusing him of defamation and breach of contract Disney, Fubo reach merger agreement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones accuses Baldoni of breaching their contract, which required him to pay her $25,000 per month, and for leaving to work with two former employees, Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel, who formed their own rival public relations company, reported Variety. Jones alleges Nathan and Abel launched Livelys online teardown behind her back, according to the outlet. The lawsuits are major developments in a story emerging from the surprise hit film that has already made major waves in Hollywood and led to discussions of the treatment of female actors both on sets and in media. The New York Times responds to Freedman The New York Times shared the following statement with NewsNation regarding Freedmans comments: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The role of an independent news organization is to follow the facts where they lead. Our story was meticulously and responsibly reported. It was based on a review of thousands of pages of original documents, including the text messages and emails that we quote accurately and at length in the article. Those texts and emails were also the crux of a discrimination claim filed in California by Blake Lively against Justin Baldoni and his associates. To address some inaccuracies in the lawsuit, when seeking comments from Mr. Baldoni and others who would be mentioned in the article, The Times shared the information that we intended to publish, including references to specific text messages and documents, asked them to identify any inaccuracies, provide additional context and speak with our team. Mr. Baldoni, Wayfarer and the other subjects chose not to have any conversations with The Times or address any of the specific text messages or documents and instead emailed a joint response, which was published in full. (Also, they sent their response to The Times at 11:16pm ET Dec 20th, not at 2:16am ET Dec 21st as the complaint says.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We plan to vigorously defend against the lawsuit. NewsNations Safia Samee Ali and 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 NewsNation. The resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has overseen deteriorating ties with China over the past nine years, has rekindled hopes for "a rebound" in bilateral relations despite mutual distrust, according to Chinese pundits. Trudeau, currently the longest-serving leader of any Group of Seven (G7) country, said on Monday he would step down when his ruling Liberal Party chooses a new leader in the coming months. The changes in Canada's political leadership may provide a window of opportunity for both sides to ease tensions if Ottawa is willing to soften its anti-China stance, said Shen Dingli, a Shanghai-based international relations expert. 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 next government should realise that Ottawa's current approach is not working and make adjustments in its dealings with China," he said. Under Trudeau, who became prime minister in 2015, China-Canada ties entered a downward spiral marked by frequent diplomatic and trade rifts, including recent accusations of Chinese meddling in Canadian elections. Bilateral ties hit a record low after Canada's arrest of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in late 2018 on behalf of the US, and China's subsequent detention of two Canadians, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig, on spying charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deterioration of China's ties with Canada was in large part a result of the escalation of the US-China rivalry, with Washington asking its allies, including Ottawa, to pick a side, according to Shen. He said future Canadian administrations should be more careful in balancing between China and the US. "While it is understandable to maintain its strategic alignment with Washington on national security and other critical issues, it needs to think about how to better handle relations with China," he said. He suggested that despite growing anti-China sentiment in Canada, Ottawa should learn from the current Australian government under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, which has in recent months repaired its troubled ties with Beijing. Michael Spavor (left) and Michael Kovrig (right), who were detained in China on spying charges, stand as they are recognised in the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa in March 2023. Photo: AP alt=Michael Spavor (left) and Michael Kovrig (right), who were detained in China on spying charges, stand as they are recognised in the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa in March 2023. Photo: AP> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comparing China-Canada relations to China-Australia relations, Shen noted Canberra's ties with Beijing worsened under former prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison when they followed Washington on thorny issues such as Huawei, Taiwan and Hong Kong. "Both sides became relatively impatient, leading to a significant deterioration in China-Australia relations," he said. But when the Albanese government came to power in 2022, Australia realised that a hostile rivalry was detrimental to both sides and began to adopt a less confrontational approach towards China, without abandoning its own values and principles, he said. "They've shown enough sensibility by softening their tone, adopting a conciliatory approach and making symbolic gestures, which has significantly eased tensions with Beijing after some twists and turns," Shen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said if the future Canadian government was willing to make some changes to mend ties, China would probably respond positively. "But if Ottawa does not change, Beijing will almost certainly hold its ground," he said. "After all, the most difficult issue in China-Canada relations, the Meng Wanzhou case, has already been resolved. Bilateral ties seem to have bottomed out and there is still hope for a rebound," Shen said. China released Spavor and Kovrig in September 2021 after nearly three years, following Meng's return to China upon reaching a deferred prosecution agreement with US authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shi Yinhong, a professor of international relations at Renmin University in Beijing, also said Trudeau's departure and the ensuing changes in Canada's domestic politics might offer hope for better bilateral ties. But he cautioned that an improvement in relations would probably not last long given the across-the-board rivalry between China and Canada in recent years and their ideological and geopolitical differences. "Neither the international environment nor the domestic public opinion in either country supports major, lasting improvements in bilateral ties, with Canadian public opinion towards China becoming increasingly negative," Shi 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. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) Local businesses on Clinton Street in Buffalos Kaisertown neighborhood reported that their storefronts have been damaged in recent weeks, with bricks and rocks smashing their front windows. From homelessness to property damage, business leaders in Kaisertown want a number of problems addressed by local officials. One of those key issues has been property damage of local businesses. WIVB News 4 learned more about residents concerns ahead of a public meeting set for Tuesday night, which will start at 6 p.m. at Autumnwood Senior Center. Residents and business will air their concerns about some quality of life issues impacting the neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Damage has been reported at a printing store, pizza shop, craft store and an insurance agency. Video footage from two weeks ago showed one of those businesses being damaged. The Erie County District Attorneys Office said the suspect in the video, Leroy Scott, faces charges and bail has been set. That has really caused quite a panic and quite a wave in the Kaisertown community and the meeting for tomorrow is to have representation not only from the Kaisertown community, but from our government and our local officials on what were going to do about it, what is the resolution, said Kevin Mason, vice president of the Kaisertown Coalition. Kaisertown residents and businesses have also been complaining about homelessness, absentee landlords and increased drug use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials from the mayors office, Buffalo police, the DAs Office and elected leaders have been invited to attend Tuesdays public hearing. We will be talking to our council member when talking to other officials tomorrow to see if theres any type of money available to help these business owners or whether the businesses were rented or not, Mason said. Any type of financial assistance that can help to cover these expenses would be greatly appreciated. Latest Local News Jeff Preval is an award-winning anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in December 2021. 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 News 4 Buffalo. TOPEKA (KSNT) Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is ordering state offices to stay closed for another day this week while Topeka leaders follow suit with city offices due to a powerful winter storm. Kelly issued the order on Monday, Jan. 6, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor. All state offices in Shawnee County are to be closed on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Although crews are making progress, the roads remain hazardous. Therefore, state office buildings in Shawnee County will be closed on Tuesday. Kelly said. While weather conditions have improved, it is important that Kansans practice safety by remaining indoors as crews work to clear roadways. Thank you to all of our first responders, medical professionals, public works crews, and state employees who are committed to ensuring the safety of our state throughout this weather event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All non-essential state employees in the executive branch agencies are included in this order that fall under the governors jurisdiction in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside the county can make their own decision regarding whether or not to close their offices. Will mail be delivered Monday in Kansas after major snow storm? Essential employees are required to report in to work as they would normally, according to the Office of the Governor. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record inclement weather eave during the period of inclement weather. Remote work is not required at this time. The City of Topeka announced on Jan. 6 in a social media post that its offices and non-essential services will be closed on Tuesday, Jan. 7. This closure impacts the Topeka Municipal Court, Probation Offices and Everside employee onsite clinic. Topekas City Council will also meet virtually on Jan. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City employees are encouraged to contact their supervisors with questions regarding whether they need to report in normally. Essential personnel are still required to clock in as usual. Shawnee County trash pickup schedule changes, what to know Kansas state offices are also set to close for a Day of Mourning on Jan. 9. This closure is associated with the recent passing of former President Jimmy Carter. 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 Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The city of Keene is rapidly growing, with many new businesses and neighborhoods setting down roots. These are exciting times for the city of Keene and cannot wait to see what the future holds, City Manager Jonathan Seitz said. We are blessed with an incredible team, council and partners. Keene Mayor Lisa Parrish was reelected to her seat in November. She was the first Keene mayor elected in 2022. During her time in office, the city has seen substantial growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am excited to share news about the progress happening in Keene, Mayor Lisa Parrish said. I want to preserve the quality and character of our town, those attributes about it that we all love, while making sure that when I leave Keene, its in a better place than when I came into it as an elected official. A better place to live in, work in and to visit. Allsups Convenience Store and Truck Stop opened on U.S. 67 in early December, with residents flocking to visit the new location. This establishment will not only provide citizens with a place to get gas and shop for everyday essentials including fresh produce, but it will serve as a vital hub for travelers and truckers who need a place to stop and rest, Parrish said. Im excited that Allsups chose Keene for their first location in Johnson County. The 6,277-square-foot store at 100 E. 67 is open 24 hours a day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is an exciting time in Keene. We have two new, awesome companies coming to Keene and our Industrial Park is growing. We are looking forward to more new business in the future, KEDC-A Board Chair Samantha Gillin said. Convenience store brand Yesway was founded in 2015 and bought the Allsups brand in 2019. Another Allsups is planned to be built on Sunflower Lane in Alvarado. In October, Keene broke ground on a Tractor Supply Co. store to open in 2026. The 23,000-square-foot retail store is in the 2500 block of U.S. 67. This store will be a fantastic resource for farmers, ranchers and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, Parrish said. Its going to be a great addition to the commercial growth of our city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New homes We have four new neighborhoods in various stages of development that will bring about 1,000 homes into our city, Parrish said. These new developments have paved the way for commercial growth and additional tax revenue for the city. Home ownership is the cornerstone of a strong community. The new neighborhoods include: Ashton Home Place, County Road 805 The builder of this community is Lennar and they are in the process of building phases 1 & 2 which will add 159 new homes. The city has sold 29 permits with homes officially under construction. Eventually the neighborhood will have the potential to add 300-plus homes to the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sunset Ridge, U.S. 67 This neighborhood will have three phases and eventually add a total of 350 homes to the community. Along with the homes there is 5.63 acres zoned for commercial property and an additional 14 acres of open green space. Stonehurst, Old Betsy Road next to Keene City Hall In the process of developing, this neighborhood will have 113 lots for future homes. The Canyons, near Keene ISD The builder of this community is DR Horton and there will be three phases, providing 292 lots for future homes. These projects are things that Keene has been working on for years, so it is good to personally see them coming to fruition, Director of Neighborhood & Development Services Don Martin said. It has taken a team effort to make this happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public services In addition to our new homes and businesses, the city is making strides in enhancing public services. Im happy to announce that the police department is moving into its own building on [U.S.] 67 across from the Spanish church, Parrish said. The fire department will take over the existing building in its entirety and have more office, storage and parking space. Seitz said the police department building was one of many things on a long list of needs the city will continue to work on. Our first responders keep us safe day and night, he said. With our fire and police departments working out of a shared space, there has been an obvious need for more room so both can grow as our citys needs continue to grow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 9,200-square-foot building will give the department the room needed to operate on departmental city standards, he said. This change will not only provide a larger facility for our dedicated officers giving them more space to conduct their vital work, but it will also foster stronger connections with our community and make Keene an even safer place to live, Parrish said. In my opinion, there is no higher calling than a career in public service. I have high respect for those that choose law enforcement and as mayor, I want to make sure our officers have the resources they need to effectively do their jobs. By using the existing building, the city is saving about $1 to $2 million dollars, Seitz said. It is situated in a location where our city shows the largest signs of growth commercially and residentially, he said. This is a strong indication of good things to come for our city of Keene in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police Chief James Kidd said the updated police facility is more than just a building. It is also a pivotal resource that supports the mission of protecting and serving the community. The facility enhances operational efficiency, officer morale, community relations and public safety, Kidd said. It offers better working conditions, and space for training and community engagement. Symbolically, it demonstrates progress, professionalism and investment in the safety and well-being of the community and your police department. Seitz and Parrish both thanked the Keene City Council for recognizing the need for the project. This move is a great decision for our town and has been needed for a long time, Parrish said. Its especially important now due to our exponential growth in housing and commercial development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im proud of our council, staff, and board members that worked together as a united team to make this happen. This acquisition of property and relocation of the police department shows that the officials in our town are committed to the safety and well-being of citizens. 2024 highlights To kick off the new year, Parrish took a moment to reflect on the accomplishments and events of the past year. I am happy to report that together, your city officials (mayor and council members) and city staff worked very hard to ensure that city services were enhanced, and solutions sought to bring in revenue to put the city in a better financial position for years to come, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On March 15, the Keene Fire Rescue Department pushed in their new Pierce Fire Engine. Other events that brought the community together in a positive way included the Southwestern Adventist Universitys Founders Day Celebration in January; Total Solar Eclipse Event at SWAU and visit from the Queen of Palau, Beling Gloria Salaii, in April; the ninth annual celebration of National Police Week and Memorial Day Event in May; the Independence Day parade and celebration in July; Star Fest in October; and the second annual Christmas Market, Christmas Parade and opening of the Keene Community Impact Center all in December. Its been an honor to serve as an elected official the past six years and I cant wait to see what Keenes future holds, she said. FORT WORTH Attorney General Ken Paxton kicked off a two-day tour across the state to pressure Republican House lawmakers to vote for Mansfield Rep. David Cook for House speaker, continuing his attacks against foes who voted to impeach him two years ago while trying to sweep his allies into power. If the speakership is controlled by a block of Democratic votes then it prevents Republicans who are elected to get certain things done, from getting their priorities done and thats been happening for the last 16 years, Paxton told reporters after the event. Its important because if were going to represent our districts we need to make sure that we have our agenda front and center instead of the Democrats agenda. Paxton spoke in front of a crowd of hundreds of people at the Tarrant County Republican Party headquarters in Fort Worth and was joined by fellow conservative lawmakers from the area like Rep. Nate Schatzline and Tony Tinderholt of Arlington. He urged attendees to call their state representatives and convince them to vote for Cook when the Legislature begins its session next Tuesday. Incoming Republican Reps. David Lowe, Mitch Little, Mike Olcott and Andy Hopper also attended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paxton's tour comes a week before the start of the legislative session in which it remains unclear who will lead the Legislature's lower chamber. For the past year, Paxton has exerted considerable time and effort trying to oust current House speaker Dade Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, for his role supporting his impeachment. Phelan narrowly won his primary last year and then bowed out of the speaker race in December when it became clear he did not have the support to retain the gavel. Now Paxton is committed to keeping Phelans close ally Rep. Dustin Burrows of Lubbock from securing the leadership role. Paxton said the goal of his tour was to put pressure on Tarrant County lawmakers Charlie Geren of Fort Worth, Giovanni Capriglione of Southlake and Rep.-elect John McQueeney to change their support from Burrows to Cook. None of the three attended the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These guys need to listen to you. You elected them, Paxton said. I'm optimistic but I'm going to tell you right now: you gotta put the pressure on them next week. The crowd, some of whom wore Ban Democratic Chairs pins and T-shirts, clapped and cheered as Paxton and other speakers urged them to call their lawmakers to vote for Cook. Paxton also plans to visit Tyler, Leander and The Woodlands to turn the heat up on Reps. Cole Hefner of Mt. Pleasant, Jay Dean of Longview, Cody Harris of Palestine, Terry Wilson of Marble Falls and Will Metcalf of Conroe, all Republicans who support Burrows. Conservative activists have railed for years against the House's leadership, saying Republican speakers for the last decade and a half have sided with Democrats to stall conservative legislation and prioritize Democratic issues -- even as the state has passed some of the most conservative legislation in the country on abortion, immigration and guns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Paxton's impeachment for bribery and abuse of government at the end of the last legislative session catalyzed the movement. Paxtons supporters saw the move as an attack on a conservative warrior and after his acquittal in the Senate, Paxton promised to sweep out of office those who voted for his "sham impeachment" and bring more conservative voices to the Capitol. Paxton and his acolytes were largely successful, helping to remove 14 incumbent Republicans who supported his impeachment and replace them with his supporters. Then, they turned their sights on the speaker's race which they say will give them more power and transparency in the legislative process. As it stands Cook has the support from a majority of Republicans, but Burrows appears closer to clinching a majority of votes from the entire House thanks to support from Democrats. In December, Cook secured the Republican caucus' nomination for speaker by a vote of 48-14. Under the group's rules, all of the caucus' members are bound to support its endorsed nominee. But Burrows' Republican supporters said they were not afforded a fair shot at the nomination and walked out of the meeting before the vote. They have pledged to support Burrows in spite of the group's rules which could potentially cost them their ability to run in a GOP primary under a new rule implemented by the state party last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, Cook has put together a list of 56 Republican supporters that he published in December after the caucus meeting. The House rules require a simple majority 76 votes out of 150 members to win a speaker's race. Burrows also published a list of 76 supporters 38 Republicans and 38 Democrats but several lawmakers have asked to take their names off that list, dropping him below the winning threshold. It is highly unusual for the speaker's race to be unresolved a week before the legislative session and conservatives at Paxton's rally considered that a victory. They urged the room full of people in the middle of the day to put pressure on their lawmakers to vote for Cook. My goal is for them to change their heart because of what youre doing and what were doing up here today, said Tinderholt, who ran against Phelan for speaker last session and only garnered three votes. Cook is somewhat of an unusual choice for the insurgent camp, which is made up of the party's right wing and new lawmakers who defeated incumbents that voted to impeach Paxton. His voting record is more moderate than his supporters notably, he voted to impeach Paxton but he has promised to do away with letting Democrats lead legislative committees, to prioritize Republican Party of Texas priorities and to be more transparent in what bills will be brought to the floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His supporters see him as a change agent that will reduce the power of Democrats, put the Republican majority in the driver's seat and do away with some of the Legislature's opaque rules and procedures. Unless lawmakers start folding on either side, the speakers race is likely to continue up in the air until next Tuesday. But even if Cook lost, Little said, conservatives would still win out in the end. They'd just have to come back during the Republican primaries next year and vote out those who side with Burrows. Either way it goes, it's fine, he said. If David Cook is a speaker of the Texas House, we're going to drive conservative legislation. And if he's not, we're going to make sure another couple dozen of these reps who don't have fidelity to your values go home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Paxtons part, this isnt his first time jostling with his own party over the speakership. In 2011, he mounted a challenge to former Rep. Joe Straus of San Antonio, the sitting speaker. Straus easily defeated him in a caucus vote the day before the start of the session and Paxton ultimately decided against taking his challenge to the House floor on opening day. At the time, Paxton said even though we lost this race, I am encouraged to say that we have not lost the fight, that our conservative message is important and that this is just the beginning. Im convinced that we are going to move forward with a conservative agenda and I hope to be part of it, he said at the time. CONECUH COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) A Kentucky woman was killed, and five others were injured on Jan. 2 in a two-vehicle crash in Conecuh County, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Bond set for Daphne teen in New Years Day homicide According to an ALEA news release, Virginia L. Schueman, 64, of Shepherdsville, Kentucky, was killed when the 2023 Tesla Model 3 she was riding in as a passenger collided head-on with a 2019 Honda Accord around 9:20 a.m. on Jan. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALEA officials said Schueman was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The driver of the Honda Accord was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida. The Tesla driver and another passenger of the Tesla were also airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital. ALEA said a 12-year-old and a 9-year-old, passengers in the Tesla, were injured and taken to a local hospital for treatment. Mobile police seek man who allegedly assaulted Shoe Station employee, stole phone According to ALEA, the crash occurred on Alabama 55 near the 47-mile marker, about a mile south of McKenzie city limits in Conecuh County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALEAs Highway Patrol Division is still investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The News Kenyas largest telecoms operator Safaricom is facing widespread public backlash over its alleged involvement in the unexplained abductions of government critics. Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) said there have been more than 80 cases of abductions and forced disappearances since youth-led anti-government protests that rocked major cities between June and August last year. Activists have accused Safaricom of sharing customer call records and location data with alleged state agents, allowing them to track and capture targets. Some government critics have shared publicly that they dumped their Safaricom lines to avoid government surveillance and arrest, encouraging other Kenyans to do the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Safaricom needs to be held to account, Willie Oeba, a spoken word artist and one of the protest movements leading figures, told Semafor Africa, saying it needed to follow the countrys data protection laws. People including family members of abductees have told me that they are considering leaving Safaricom altogether but are unsure of alternatives. Safaricom has not yet responded to Semafor Africas queries on its alleged involvement in the unexplained abductions. In October, Safaricom denied sharing customer data with the state without court orders after Kenyan newspaper the Nation reported that it had given authorities virtually unfettered access to customer data through its internal data management system. Power utility Kenya Power has also been criticized for allegedly allowing state agents access to location data for its customers power meters, installed in homes and businesses. The company did not immediately respond to questions from Semafor Africa over the allegations. Know More The government of Kenya owns a 35% stake in Safaricom, with Vodacom and Vodafone owning a combined 40%. Retail investors own 25% of the company. It controls 65% of the telecommunications market in Kenya, with a subscriber base of 47 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five men who disappeared shortly before the Christmas holidays including cartoonist Gideon Kibet, known for his satirical depictions of Kenyan President William Ruto, and 24-year old Billy Mwangi, who had shared AI-generated images of Ruto in a funeral casket were found alive on Monday. The government has denied involvement in their disappearances and said the cases are under investigation, while on Monday police cracked down against demonstrators in Nairobi protesting against the abductions. Martins view The public backlash against Safaricom and Kenya Power represents the growing anger toward perceived allies of the government at a time of high unemployment, difficult economic conditions, and restricted civil freedoms. Artists who performed at Kenyas independence day celebrations last month, an event attended by Ruto, faced heavy criticism online. For Safaricom, any potential boycott could have profound financial implications. When internet access in Kenya was throttled after demonstrators stormed Parliament in June, protesters called for mass boycotts against the company. Safaricom however, denied limiting internet access and blamed the disruption on an undersea cable cut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A renewed association with an unpopular administration could provide Safaricoms rivals with an opportunity to gain market share. This is despite many customers reliance on tools such as its mobile money service M-Pesa through which more than half of Kenyas GDP flows annually. Room for Disagreement Ruto and his allies have denied any government involvement in the abductions and disappearances. Majority leader Kimani Ichungwah claimed that some of the abductions were staged to incite protests similar to those in June last year when Parliament was stormed by demonstrators and partially set ablaze. Notable President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday intensified his push for American expansionism, refusing to rule out using military force to add Greenland to the United States and retake control of the Panama Canal. In a wide-ranging news conference at Mar-a-Lago his second since winning the 2024 election he also said he could use economic force to turn Canada into the United States 51st state. You get rid of that artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better for national security, Trump said at his Florida estate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The imperialistic land grabs Trump is floating which, if he follows through and succeeds, would represent the first major changes to the American map since Hawaiis statehood in 1959 are a dramatic break from the foreign policy approaches of presidents in both parties in recent decades. And they come as Western leaders have opposed Russias attempts at expansion into formerly Soviet territory, including its war in Ukraine. During his hour long remarks, Trump also stewed over a series of grievances including the legal cases brought against him, the Biden administrations handling of the transition and energy efficiency and environmental regulations that he doesnt like. Asked about his pledge to issue pardons over convictions in connection with the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol, Trump said hed be making major pardons, although he didnt answer a question about whether that would include those who attacked police. He also threatened Hamas, saying it must release the hostages kidnapped in Israel during the October 7, 2023, attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If those hostages arent back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East and it will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone, Trump said. All hell will break out. I dont have to say anymore, but thats what it is. Military action on Panama, Greenland As he continues to push for American territorial expansion, Trump would not rule out military action to take control of Panama and Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. Asked directly whether he would rule out using military or economic coercion to see through his goal of gaining those territories, the president-elect responded, No. No, I cant assure you on either of those two, but I can say this: We need them for economic security, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has frequently, in public appearances and social media posts in recent weeks, raised the prospect of adding both to the United States. He said Denmark should give up its control of Greenland or it would also face steep tariffs. He also suggested the people of Greenland could vote for independence or to join the United States. Im talking about protecting the free world, Trump said. He again criticized Panamas management of the Panama Canal, which he said was built for our military. The US-built canal was opened in 1914 and controlled by the United States until a 1977 agreement provided for its eventual handover to Panama. The canal was jointly operated by both countries until the Panamanian government retained full control after 1999. Praise for Cannons decision amid familiar legal grievances The president-elect praised the Tuesday decision by District Judge Aileen Cannon to block the public release of special counsel Jack Smiths final report on his federal investigations into Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was thrown off the case in disgrace. Why should he be allowed to write a fake report? Itll only be a fake report. Thats great news, Trump said about Smith when asked about the decision by a reporter at Mar-a-Lago. Cannon previously dismissed Smiths classified documents case against Trump, ruling that Smiths appointment as special counsel violated the Constitution, which is what Trump appears to be referencing in his comments. Her order Tuesday prevents Smith and the Justice Department from moving forward with releasing the report until the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals has time to review the emergency motion by Trumps co-defendants to block the reports release. Trump again dismissed the cases against him as fake, railed against Smith and called him deranged while praising Cannon, whom he appointed during his first term, as a brilliant judge with great courage. Criticizing Carter As he lambasted Panama, Trump also criticized former President Jimmy Carter for that 1977 agreement, enacted while Carter was in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump plans to attend the funeral of Carter, who died late last month at age 100, this week. And though the president-elect has long criticized Carters time in office, he issued a gracious statement after the Georgia Democrats death. Still, on Tuesday, Trump said Carter brokered a bad deal with Panama. The Panama Canal is a disgrace, what took place at the Panama Canal. Jimmy Carter gave it to them for $1, and they were supposed to treat us well. I thought it was a terrible thing to do, Trump said. Gulf of America Trump continued to levy threats of steep tariffs against North American neighbors Mexico and Canada if the countries dont crack down on undocumented immigrants crossing their borders into the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in a new twist, he said he wants to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America what a beautiful name. And its appropriate, Trump said. In a sign of how quickly Republicans want to fall in line behind Trump, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene announced she will be introducing legislation to change the name moments after the president-elect said it in his news conference. Blasting Biden over the transition Trump continued his attacks on the Biden administrations handling of the transition ahead of his return to the White House on January 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said the Biden administration is trying everything they can to make it more difficult and is seeking to block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for. Trump pointed to Biden signing an executive action on Monday that will ban future offshore oil and gas development in parts of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, which was done in a way that makes it difficult for Trump to undo. They say were going to have a smooth transition. All they do is talk. Its all talk. Everything they do is talk, were going to have a smooth transition. And then they take 625 million acres, and they essentially landmark it, so you cant ever drill there again. Well, were going to be drilling soon, he said. His attacks on the Biden administrations role in the transition come after he posted on social media accusing Biden of making the transition as difficult as possible. Raging against windmills, dripping showers and electric heaters Perhaps Trumps most consistent political position, since his first run for office, is his vehement opposition to windmills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His latest comments came as part of extended criticism of environmental and energy efficiency complaining about dripping showers, low-water dishwashers and electric heaters. (He railed against the water in toilets during his first term, saying in 2019, People are flushing toilets 10 times, 15 times, as opposed to once.) On Tuesday, he blamed windmills for a sharp increase in whale fatalities across southern New Englands coastlines in recent weeks. The windmills are driving the whales crazy, obviously, Trump said. He said windmills litter our country and compared them to dropping garbage in a field. He said they are the most expensive energy ever, and that only those who build them with subsidies want them. Were going to try and have a policy where no windmills are being built, Trump said. Says Meta has come a long way Trump said he thought Meta had come a long way after CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced Tuesday it would get rid of fact checkers on Facebook and Instagram and replace them with user-generated community notes, similar to Elon Musks X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I watched their news conference, and I thought it was a very good news conference. I think theyve, honestly, I think theyve come a long way. Meta. Facebook. I think theyve come a long way. I watched it, the man was very impressive, Trump said in response to a question from CNNs Steve Contorno. Contorno asked whether Trump thought the decision by Meta was a direct response to threats the president-elect has made to Zuckerberg in the past. Probably. Yeah, probably, Trump said. Touting Emiratis investment Trump opened his news conference by announcing that Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani will invest at least $20 billion for data centers across the United States. Trump credited his own victory for the investment, saying Sajwani was very inspired by the election and wouldnt do it without the election. Trump has previously vowed to expedite the permitting process for construction projects that invest at least $1 billion in the US. Sajwani owns DAMAC Properties, a property-development company based in Dubai. Sajwani, dubbed The Donald of Dubai, was one of the few international business investors who upheld a strong relationship with Trump in the immediate aftermath of the US Capitol attack on January 6, 2021. CNNs Michael Williams, Kate Sullivan, Aaron Pellish and Steve Contorno contributed to this report. This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Bloomberg) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the nations new hypersonic missile will keep any rivals in the Pacific region in check, following a test launch on Monday that coincided with US Secretary of State Antony Blinkens visit to Seoul. Most Read from Bloomberg Kim said the development of the latest weapons system is aimed at coping with security threats posed by hostile forces, the official Korean Central News Agency reported on Tuesday, a day after the firing of the intermediate-range ballistic missile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state, Kim said, calling it a linchpin of the countrys strategic deterrence. While ballistic missiles commonly travel at hypersonic velocities speeds in excess of Mach 5 the US, China, North Korea and others are in a race to develop weapons with maneuverable gliders that are too quick and agile for traditional missile defense systems to detect in time. It remains to be seen if North Korea has actually developed a functional hypersonic glide vehicle. The missile, fired near Pyongyang, flew 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) at 12 times the speed of sound, KCNA said. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff earlier said the missile flew around 1,100 km before splashing down in waters off its east coast. The typical full-flight distance of an intermediate-range ballistic missile would bring US military bases on Guam into range. North Koreas ability to fire a missile that travels at Mach 12, if confirmed, would mark another milestone in Kims efforts to build an arsenal of weapons to erode US strategic advantages as he steps up cooperation with Russias Vladimir Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The South Korean military said North Koreas claims to have made advances with its hypersonic technology appeared to be exaggerated, adding that the latest missile may be a variation of a solid-fuel hypersonic missile Pyongyang tested in April. We are prepared to intercept any missiles possessed by North Korea, South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson, Lee Sung-jun, said at a briefing. Speaking alongside his South Korean counterpart on Monday, Blinken condemned Pyongyangs latest launch and raised concerns about Russias space technology cooperation with North Korea. Mondays ballistic missile launch was the first of the year by North Korea and comes just two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Two months earlier, North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that achieved a record flight just days before the US presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missile tests serve as a reminder of the threat North Korea poses to its southern neighbor and other countries in the region as well as the US mainland. The latest test also comes as South Korea goes through one of the most turbulent times in decades after President Yoon Suk Yeols short-lived imposition of martial law. The performance of our latest intermediate-range hypersonic missile system can not be ignored worldwide, and the system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier, Kim said. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. The Capitol building in Harrisburg on July 6, 2024 (Capital-Star photo by Ian Karbal) On Tuesday, the first day of the new legislative session, the Republican-controlled Pennsylvania Senate reelected Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) as Senate President Pro Tempore. In a speech to the Senate following her unchallenged reelection, Ward highlighted what she called a lot of big items on our agenda in Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Issues Ward highlighted included many that Republicans and Democrats have struggled to compromise on in the past, including transportation funding, school choice and cost cutting. Sen. Kim Ward, R-Westmoreland (Pa. Senate photo). And though it was light on specific policy proposals, Wards talking points hewed towards traditional conservatism cutting regulations and government spending. Though she acknowledged the need to work with both Democrats in her own chamber and the Democratic majority in the state House. We can do more to help families succeed by cutting bureaucratic red tape and less entitlement programs, but were gonna have to compromise, Ward said. We can do more to put our families and businesses first by getting out of the way where we can and providing assistance where we need to. Transportation Ward didnt mention the Philadelphia-area public transit service, SEPTA, by name, but appeared to allude to it. The agency faces a funding shortfall and has had to raise rates to compensate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You know, we never have enough transportation dollars, Ward said. She advised her colleagues to invest wisely and remain competitive. Last session, funding for SEPTA and other public transportation was a sticking point between Democrats, who make up a large majority of the Philadelphia delegation in both chambers, and Republicans, who held out for a concurrent increase in money for highways, bridges and other transportation infrastructure The budget included a compromise of $80 million in new transit funding, which was far smaller than the $283 million Gov. Josh Shapiro sought in his budget proposal, in exchange for an additional $80 million in transportation funding. In November, Shapiro directed $153 million to the struggling transportation agency, using federal highway funds largely made up of revenues from a motor fuel or gas tax. Ward appeared to reference this in her speech, saying, Its important that were disciplined, to use our gas tax revenues as intended, and build a more innovative, modern and realistic network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other side of the Capitol, in the Democratic-controlled state House, Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) also addressed transit agency funding in a speech on the theme of bipartisanship. He noted that transit funding is not only an issue for Philadelphia but for residents of the four collar counties that make up the greater metropolitan area. It is a region of our Commonwealth that provides so much of the revenue and business activity that funds this entire Commonwealth, Bradford said. We would be remiss. We would be missing our duty if we dont deal with transit. Education Ward also appeared to reaffirm a desire for increased funding for school choice programs, which allow public funds to supplement private school tuition for some students. While last session saw a historic increase in funding for public schools, House Democrats largely blocked increases to school choice funding through programs like vouchers and publicly-funded scholarships to private schools, which Republicans backed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to education, we need to make sure all children are ready to succeed, not by only making historic investments, Ward said. She called for lawmakers to ensure that children can access a quality education regardless of where they live We owe it to those kids. In 2023, Shapiro voiced support for increased school choice funding, though ultimately backed down during that years budget negotiations following objections from Democratic lawmakers. The issue reemerged during last years budget negotiations, with Republican Senate leaders accusing Shapiro of breaking promises with his previously withdrawn support. At least one Democratic Senator, Sen. Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia) has voiced support for funding school vouchers, citing the quality of the public schools in some of the states poorer areas, including Philadelphia. Wards counterpart in the House, Speaker Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia), who was reelected to the position Tuesday, counted last years overhaul of the public school funding formula, which included a large budget increase, among the major bipartisan achievements of the 2023-2024 session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were able to put our differences aside, roll up our sleeves with a willing mind and do the impossible, McClinton said. We created a framework to finally fairly fund every single school in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Health Ward spoke in broad terms about the need to address public health issues impacting seniors and rural residents. Nursing homes are struggling, Ward said. They are taking care of our most vulnerable and we all want folks in those nursing homes to have the best care. Along with struggling nursing homes, Ward brought up rural hospitals. Though in the brief speech, Ward focused more on highlighting issues than proposing specific policies, she suggested, Maybe we need to right-size some of these buildings, hospitals. Energy and regulation Ward also spoke about the need to support the energy sector, appearing to nod towards both fossil fuels and renewable resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have an opportunity to make our economy prosperous for generations if we work to make an all of the above energy strategy, Ward said, calling on lawmakers to [embrace] our states energy potential. Speaking more specifically to the governments role in supporting a renewable energy sector over fossil fuels, Ward said, we should not be making policies that pick winners and losers. Ward also specifically backed permit reform, giving a shoutout to her colleague, Sen. Kristen Phillips-Hill (R-York). Phillips-Hill has been an advocate for cutting what she has called government red tape by speeding up the environmental protection permit process for businesses. And she has recently called for further permitting reform across more government agencies. More broadly, Ward also said lawmakers should [make] our business tax structure more favorable. Right-sizing Ward also spoke about what she called right-sizing, or consolidating resources where possible. As examples, she proposed potentially merging low-enrollment schools, or closing government buildings where few employees regularly work. She also floated requiring remote workers to return to their offices to justify the investments in their public offices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking about government-owned office buildings in her own district, Ward said, We either need to right-size or we need to put people back to work because this is a waste of money. Im sure when I get home Im gonna have eggs at my house from everyone whos working at home, but whatever. Despite largely focusing on traditional conservative solutions to policy problems, Ward repeatedly cited the need to compromise with her Democratic colleagues. While were not all the same party or ideology, we are all here for one basic reason, Ward said. We came here to make change and make things better. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The oft-heard injunction to be kind was once a softly-spoken admonishment by parents to misbehaving children, but more recently has been commandeered by trans activists, and almost always directed at women especially feminists like me who refuse to capitulate to gender lunacy. As I first wrote in my book Feminism For Women, four years ago, feminism has been rebranded and repackaged by others as a just be kind and nice to everyone cause. As in the days of the suffrage movement, when anti-feminist propaganda plugged the myth that women activists were neglecting their children, mens needs must now apparently be met at all costs. The punishment for women who fail to comply with this is being seen as cold-hearted, unnatural, ball-breaking bigots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feminism is unkind if it is only about fighting for womens liberation, but kind if it includes men. Every time we dare point out anything bad that men do to women, such as biological men invading single-sex spaces, the cry goes up: Be kind! The sad (and, for me, difficult) truth is that many of those pushing the be kind narrative are women, and their poisonous aggression has exposed their hypocrisy. On the one hand, they are enacting be kind exhortations. And on the other, they are imposing it in a way that is sadistic and deeply unkind to other women. In her new, deftly-written and often humorous book, (Un)kind, feminist author Victoria Smith tackles the pervasive tide of unbridled misogyny masquerading as kindness. In it, she argues that many women do things because they dont feel safe not to. Feelings of wanting to be safe is evidence of bigotry Smith, 49, is author of the best-selling Hags. Raised in a middle-class household in Penrith, Cumbria, she works in publishing one of many institutions currently captured by so-called progressive politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you want women whove been traumatised to feel secure in the world and to feel that they can be confident and trust people again, she tells me, you want them not to feel that they have to always be accommodating other people. Take messaging aimed at students, such as signs seen in the womens lavatories at one university: Do you feel like someone is using the wrong bathroom? Respect their privacy, respect their identity, carry on with your day. But therell be loads of female students whove come from sexually abusive homes, and they are having their heads messed with, says Smith, by being told that their gut reactions and their basic feelings of wanting to be safe is evidence of bigotry. Whos Afraid of Gender author Judith Butler was challenged on the topic of female-only spaces last year - Getty In the book Whos Afraid of Gender, Judith Butler uses the kindness concept to berate women concerned with male violence. Questioned at a public event last year by an older lesbian feminist, Amanda Kovattana, on whether women should be allowed female-only spaces, Butler responded: I hope and trust that you dont have a son with a penis. I do wonder about what is the danger of the penis. I understand the revolting abhorrent character of rape. I understand that women can be raped by a man with a penis. Those same women, those same men, may also love somebody with a penis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Translation: it is unkind of women to fear men in our spaces, because some women have sons.) Smith herself has raised three sons, and has a male partner. She is frustrated by the fact that her positions are perceived as somehow contradictory. I still think women should be entitled to spaces without men entirely. I want to raise them to be kind, considerate people. But in the world we live in, women have an absolute right to have their own spaces. Women are told, for example, that its unkind to deny disabled men the right to pay for sex with vulnerable women. In this scenario, women are made to understand that all of our empathy should go to the men and not the women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clearly, if women are not freely choosing to have sex with these men, this is exploitation. But its always so much easier to feel sorry for a subset of men than the women who are meant to kind of ease this thing. From little girls in sparkling T-shirts bearing the slogan Be Kind, to an entire Centre for Research on Kindness at the University of Sussex (ironically enough, since the university was anything but kind to Kathleen Stock) the pressure to be kind has never been as strong as it is today. Kathleen Stock resigned from her position as professor of philosophy at Sussex University after a campaign of intimidation by trans rights activists - Clara Molden for The Daily Telegraph How can women campaigning against rape and domestic violence ever say what needs to be said, if we have wear a smile of kindness as we do so? These new progressive politics seem to dictate that everything that is bad for women should be accepted with a kindly smile. Kindness is thought of as a typically feminine characteristic, so it is difficult to challenge who wants to be thought of as unkind? Even industries like the sex trade and surrogacy, known for their abject unkindness and sadism towards women, are now seen as being rooted in kindness. The pressure to be kind Along with every other female on the planet, I am familiar with the pressure to be kind. Shortly after I moved to London, in 1987, I was sexually harassed by a young Afro-Caribbean man while walking home. I told him to go away. He punched me in the face, leaving me with a broken nose and two black eyes. I staggered back to the house that I shared with some left-wing feminists, where I was discouraged from reporting this man to the police, on the grounds of police racism. My liberal white housemates thought it would just provide an opportunity for the police to go and indiscriminately pick up any young black man, and that, as one said to me at the time, the police think they all look the same. Obviously there was terrible racism within some pockets of the police force, but I was effectively guilt tripped into not seeking justice after my attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is also a drive to humiliate women for expressing their fears. Gender studies professor Alison Phipps accuses other white women who report men for rape of racism, because this is a carceral approach. In her latest book, Phipps states that privileged white women weaponize their trauma from male violence in order to purge bad men from institutions, without concern as to where they will end up next. This determination to make white women who express fears think theyre being racist is really nasty, says Smith. Youre making a point about a man, and theyll imply, No, youre making it about trans people, or youre making it about black people. Is the pressure to be kind really saying we should just capitulate, bow down, cave in? I think it is a lot of the time. Its just, be quiet, dont get in the way. We wouldnt have any problems if you just went along with what we wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The entire surrogacy trade relies heavily on kindness discourse specifically the idea that it is kind of a birth mother to bear a baby for a couple they know simply out of altruism. But its not a free choice when theres so much riding on it. And its not rich women that are choosing it, says Smith. This is obviously what is old, standard manipulation. Its kind to give that baby away to strangers. Smith adds: As weve seen with the gender wars, its very easy for women to be cast as unkind and empathetic... If you look at Jenny Lindsays recent book, Hounded, all she said was, I dont think lesbians should be threatened at a Pride march [following examples of trans activists turning on lesbians]. It was such a basic thing to say, but if youre cast as mean and unkind, its really ruinous. Lindsay lost her career as a poet and author, and was, quite literally, bullied out of her friendship and peer group for daring to stand up for a marginalised group of women, because she had been unkind to trans people for doing so. Amanda Craig, the novelist, has been accused of unkindness and bigotry after signing a letter in support of JK Rowling, who in turn has been ostracised by some former friends and colleagues over her support for womens rights over gender ideology. Dropped as a competition judge by the womens literary magazine Mslexia, she was accused of threatening the magazines climate of welcome and inclusivity. The letter in question objected to hate speech towards Rowling. Novelist Amanda Craig faced backlash after signing a letter in support of JK Rowling - Rii Schroer It was the opposite of kindness, says Craig of the onslaught she faced from trans activists and supporters. In fact the intention was to discredit and malign me amongst my professional peers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They wanted to cause as much distress as possible, in order to send a warning to other women that you must not say the wrong thing, and to coerce us into the right side of history slot. Perhaps the very unkindest thing I have seen is the callous dismissal of the fears and trauma of the victims of sexual assault. Demanding that we be kind requires women to keep quiet about the things that are hurting and harming us, lest we upset somebody else (men). We are made to feel ashamed if we are not kind, and if we dont put the feelings of others (men) before ours. Thus even though we instinctively know how dangerous it is to go along with such fantasies it is now unkind to call a man a man, if he has decided otherwise. Telling a feminist she is unkind is saying she is a man-hater. Calling for her to be kind is saying: allow those men to hate you and get away with 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. Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) says he does not want a preemptive pardon from President Biden to shield him from possible retaliation by President-elect Trump for his participation on the House panel that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. I understand the theory behind it, because Donald Trump has clearly said hes going to go after everybody, and its not going to be for the Jan. 6 investigation. What theyll do is theyll weaponize other investigations, Kinzinger said Monday during an appearance on CNN. Kinzinger argued that allies of Trump will target critics and file lawsuits, forcing defendants to spend money on legal fees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This happened to Brad Raffensperger in Georgia, as he was forced to defend himself. But the second you take a pardon and it looks like youre guilty of something Im guilty of nothing besides bringing the truth to the American people, and in the process, embarrassing Donald Trump, because for 187 minutes, he sat there and did absolutely nothing and showed how weak and scared he truly was, Kinzinger told CNN host Anderson Cooper. So no, I dont want it. A vocal Trump critic, Kinzinger was one of two House GOP members, alongside former Rep. Liz Cheney (Wyo.), to sit on the House panel that probed the 2021 Capitol riot. Both have since endured criticism from Trump and his allies, and the pair also endorsed Vice President Harris over Trump in the November election. The president-elect said during an interview last month he would not direct his administration appointees to go after his political opponents, but he mentioned that some of the Jan. 6 panels members should go to jail. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), who also served on the committee that investigated the attack, offered a similar response when asked Monday about receiving a preemptive pardon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be the wrong precedent to set. I dont want to see each president hereafter on their way out the door giving out a broad category of pardons, Schiff said on CNN. Kinzinger, who has been critical of the modern Republican Party, predicted the emphasis of the potential probes against the members of the select committee will be to deprive them of money with lengthy legal proceeding rather than seeking a conviction. The former Illinois lawmaker said if thats how the process would play out, I will use that as an opportunity to show the American people what the country should not be and ever be again. And if thats a process to save, you know, democracy, then Im happy to fight that fight. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 17 June 2023, Bavaria, Munich: Singer and bassist Gene Simmons (l) and singer and guitarist Paul Stanley of the U.S. band Kiss are on stage during a concert at Konigsplatz. As part of their farewell world tour "End Of The Road," the band is playing a total of four concerts in Germany. - Credit: Sven Hoppe/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images After a judge warned they might have something to lose after all, Kiss frontmen Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley have settled the wrongful termination lawsuit brought by the iconic bands longtime hairstylist. The Nothin to Lose musicians were speeding toward a Jan. 22 trial when lawyers on both sides informed the judge early Monday that a settlement had been reached, the courts clerk confirmed to Rolling Stone. The trial was cancelled and a follow-up hearing set to confirm the pact was scheduled for March. There was no immediate comment from lawyers on either side. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Armen Tamzarian urged the sides to reach a private resolution. He said the first time he read the 2023 lawsuit brought by plaintiff David Mathews which alleged labor code violations and a retaliatory 2022 termination linked to Mathews complaints about allegedly unsafe Covid protocols on tour he felt the dispute presented very serious risks for both Mathews and the band. If this goes to trial, it would not surprise me if Mr. Mathews got nothing. It would not surprise me if he made a big pot of money. This is the kind of case any rational person would settle. Theres big risk this could swing dramatically one way or the other, the judge said at a hearing in early December. This is a tough case for plaintiff to win, but if he wins, there are deep, deep pockets there, and there could be a big result. He warned the dueling lawyers they were both overconfident in their positions. In his lawsuit, Mathews said he started working for Kiss in 1992 as the stylist whose primary job it was to apply and style Kisss stage wigs. He later rose to the level of overseeing the bands wardrobe and dressing room teams and often worked 12 -to 15-hour days without stopping, according to his lawsuit. Mathews said he was with the band in Illinois in October 2021 when guitar tech Francis Stueber, 53, started showing severe Covid symptoms. Mathews claimed he alerted the bands manager Doc McGhee to Stuebers dire condition, but no timely action was taken. Stueber died in his hotel room on Oct. 17, 2021. Two weeks after his death, Rolling Stone published a piece titled, Couldnt Believe How Unsafe It Was: KISS Roadies Blame Lax Covid Protocols for Guitar Techs Death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Mathews lawsuit, McGhee was extremely upset over the article and accused Mathews of speaking with Rolling Stone. Mathews vehemently denied it, yet it was evident to Mr. Mathews that Mr. McGhee did not care to believe him, the lawsuit said. Months later, Mathews agreed to work for the band during a tour of South America. According to the lawsuit, Simmons started exhibiting flu-like symptoms in Santiago, Chile, on April 20, 2022, but did not quarantine. Mr. Simmons said he felt fine, but he was coughing, sneezing, and blowing his nose in the dressing room while Mr. Mathews was putting on Mr. Simmons wig, styling his hair, and touching up his makeup, and while the wardrobe team was putting on his costume, the lawsuit said. After the show, in the dressing room, Mr. Mathews removed Mr. Simmons sweaty wig and the wardrobe team removed his sweat-drenched costume. Mathews claimed Simmons was still coughing and blowing his nose while insisting he felt fine during a tour stop in Brazil on April 26, 2022. A crew member purportedly told Mathews they planned to test Simmons for Covid that evening. According to the lawsuit, Mathews tested positive for Covid on May 5, the same day he was informed that Simmons previously tested positive. Mathews said he voiced concerns but felt coerced into prepping the band for a show that night. He said that shortly before he was terminated in late May, McGhee brought up the Rolling Stone article again. Mathews added that he did not participate in the article and added that he was not going to defend himself for something he did not do, the lawsuit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mathews lawsuit included claims for wrongful termination, retaliation, failure to pay overtime and failure to provide rest periods. Lawyers for the Kiss defendants claimed Mathews was an independent contractor not protected by California law while traveling on tour. The judge ruled last month that the question of his classification was something for a jury to decide. He further ruled that jurors would be the proper arbiters to decide whether plaintiff had reasonable cause to believe what defendants allegedly did in South America violated some law that applies to citizens traveling abroad. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) Its January, which is typically when many of us are looking into shedding some pounds. Weve been hearing a lot about how weight loss drugs are impacting weight loss. Dr. Joseph St. Pierre with Hartford HealthCare Digestive Health Institute joined Good Morning Connecticut at 9 a.m. to talk about the wider applications of the drugs. Learn more in the video above or visit the Hartford HealthCare website for more information. 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. Tuesdays Top Stories Tuesdays Five Facts [1] One dead after police shooting in Hobbs State Police say two officers pulled over a man in a white Dodge Charger near E Marland Blvd. and S Fowler St. in Hobbs. Chief Troy Weisler says two officers fired their guns and the suspect was killed. No officers were injured in the incident. Information is still limited at this time. [2] NM attorney general seeks to stop $1.9 million severance payment to WNMU president Attorney General Raul Torrez is working to stop a nearly $2 million severance payment from going to the now former president of WNMU. Dr. Joseph Sheppard stepped down from his post after a state auditor report found he spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on expensive travel and furnishing the presidents residence between 2018 and 2023. The Board of Regents is poised to give him a $1.9 million severance. Torrez has filed an emergency motion to stop the payment. [3] Snow forming around NM; colder and windier weather Other than snow winding down in the Four Corners, light snow activity with low-elevation light rain will become more widespread north of I-40, in the West Mountains, and later today, in Southern New Mexico. More moisture with the colder air in place will lead to heavier snowfall south of I-40 later this week, but winter-like conditions will persist for all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [4] Federal report: New Mexico sees 20% increase in homelessness The Department of Housing and Urban Development report shows homelessness grew nearly 20% in New Mexico last year when compared to 2023, with an estimated 4,600 people homeless on a single night. New Mexico also saw a significant rise in the number of homeless veterans by about 16%, one of the highest increased in the country. [5] Albuquerque City Council elects new president and vice president The first meeting of the year marked a change in leadership for the Albuquerque City Council. Councilor Brook Basaan, representing District 4, is the new president. Councilor Klarissa Pena, representing District 3, is the new vice president. They will step into the roles of former president, Councilor Dan Lewis, and former vice president, Councilor Renee Grout. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ukrainian defenders have repelled 27 Russian attacks in Russia's Kursk Oblast since the beginning of the day. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 16:00 on 7 January Details: In addition, Russian forces carried out 146 artillery bombardments, including six from multiple-launch rocket systems, and launched six airstrikes in Kursk Oblast, dropping 17 guided aerial bombs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last 24 hours, 128 combat clashes have occurred across the battlefield. The Kursk, Kurakhove and Pokrovsk fronts are the main focus of Russian forces. On the Kharkiv front, Ukrainian forces repelled three Russian attacks, with one combat engagement still in progress. On the Kupiansk front, the Russians attempted to advance towards Ukrainian positions three times over the past 24 hours. On the Lyman front, Russian forces conducted nine attacks. On the Siversk front, the Russians mounted five attacks, with one combat engagement still in progress. On the Kramatorsk front, Ukrainian defenders repelled six Russian attacks and five combat engagements are still in progress. On the Toretsk front, the Russians made three attempts to advance, and one combat engagement is currently in progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Pokrovsk front, Russian troops, supported by aircraft, launched 28 combat engagements of varying intensity. Ukrainian troops repelled the Russian attacks, with five combat engagements still in progress. On the Kurakhove front, fierce fighting is raging. Ukrainian defenders repelled 14 Russian attacks during the day. On the Vremivka front, Russian soldiers attacked Ukrainian positions 14 times, with four combat engagements still in progress. On the Prydniprovske front, the Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled two Russian attacks. On the Huliaipole and Orikhiv fronts, Russian forces remained inactive. No significant changes have been reported on other fronts. Support UP or become our patron! Kwik Trip in Germantown is looking to move to a new location, not far from its current site, where it would build a new facility with a two-bay car wash, more fueling options and increased store space, according to village documents. It's a proposal that still needs the approval of the Germantown Village Board. Kwik Trip's new store would still be near Interstate 41 and along Maple Road, if approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Journal Sentinel did not immediately hear back from Kwik Trip, but here's what we know about the proposal: Where is the current Kwik Trip in Germantown and where would the new store be? Kwik Trip is currently at W188 N10963 Maple Road. The proposed new Kwik Trip site is about 1,000 feet to the north, at N112 W18741 Mequon Road, still along Maple Road. The location would have access from both Maple Road and Mequon Road. Both sites are just northeast of Interstate 41. A rendering shows what the fuel canopy would look like at Kwik Trip's proposed new location in Germantown at N112 W18741 Mequon Road. What improvements are planned for the new site? At 4.37 acres, the proposed location is larger than the current 2.5-acre site and provides an opportunity for Kwik Trip to develop a new state-of-the-art facility approximately 12,000 square feet in size, according to village documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There would be increased store space with higher ceilings, more gasoline fueling positions, a two-bay drive-thru carwash, a separate diesel fueling area and canopy, and additional parking. What's currently on the proposed site ? The site is the former home of PNC Bank, according to village documents. If the proposal is approved, the office building would be razed to make way for the new Kwik Trip. What would happen to Kwik Trip's existing location if the new location is approved? If the proposal is approved, the existing Kwik Trip store would be put up for sale with a deed restriction that does not allow a convenience store or fueling station to be in its place. What village approvals are required for the project? The proposal requires two conditional use permits from the village. It would also require a rezoning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Germantown Village Board will discuss the rezoning and the conditional use permits at its Monday, Jan. 6 meeting. More: Here are 10 eateries that opened in Milwaukee's north suburbs in 2024 More: When can Wisconsinites start filing taxes? What to know about the 2025 tax season Cathy Kozlowicz can be reached at 262-361-9132 or cathy.kozlowicz@jrn.com. Follow her on X at @kozlowicz_cathy. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Kwik Trip looks to move its Germantown location and build bigger store The General Assembly opened its 30-day session Tuesday at the Capitol in Frankfort. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Arden Barnes) Democratic lawmakers opposed Republican rule changes that they said will stifle debate and limit their constituents voices as the Kentucky General Assembly kicked off its 2025 session Tuesday in Frankfort. Republican supermajorities in both chambers easily overcame the Democrats objections which mainly centered on rule changes that would allow floor debates to be cut off more quickly when Republicans are ready to take a final vote on controversial bills. Republicans hold 80 of the 100 House seats and 31 of 38 seats in the Senate, giving Republican leaders an easy path to enacting the rule changes along party lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Senate, Democratic Caucus Chair Sen. Reggie Thomas, of Lexington, called the rule changes an attempt by this chamber to cut off debate, to limit the voice of those who are in opposition, to exclude the ability of committee chairs to have the ability to consider bills and to gag the members of this body. In the House, Rep. Sarah Stalker, D-Louisville, called the change an effort to stifle dissent. The ability to debate a bill on the House floor is not merely a procedural formality, she said. It is the beating heart of a representative democracy. So, to silence voices and to stifle dissent is to deny the very essence of our republic. Majority Floor Leader Rep. Steven Rudy, R-Paducah, countered that no one is being silenced by this update to the rules and its very rare the issue comes up at all. Rudy stressed that more than a simple majority of representatives is required to end debate via a previous question motion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Rep. Rachel Roarx, D-Louisville, called it a sobering change that could have devastating consequences. I do not believe that the rule changes before us inspire the level of trust and transparency that our constituents and all Kentuckians deserve, she said. But Rudy said: The greatest speech is that red or green button that no one no one is questioning anybody having the right to do. We were sent here to represent and to vote on measures, not just to talk for extended periods of time to prove a point and, sometimes, play a political game of running out the clock. There was no repeat of last year when a handful of Republicans challenged House rules at the start of the session in an attempt to loosen leaderships control, but were defeated. They were seeking changes including adding rank and file representatives to the powerful Rules Committee which is now made up of only leadership members. Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers is congratulated by Circuit Judge David Williams, a former Senate president, after his swearing in Tuesday. (LRC Public Information) Republican Floor Leader Sen. Max Wise, of Campbellsville, said the Senate rules also clarify that a discharge petition on a bill must be filed and read into the record a day before a floor vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the rules debate, Republican Senate President Robert Stivers, of Manchester, predicted the news media would focus attention on the partisan disagreement. Addressing journalists in the chamber, Stivers said, But if some of yall havent looked around, you may want to look in the mirror, because some of you are a dying breed only youre reporting that which is negative and divisive and trying to create division in the state. But as I have heard on several occasions, we will have disagreement on this floor about how we proceed. Elections and oaths of office The General Assembly also formally elects leaders at the start of the session. Stivers won reelection as Senate president with no opposition on Tuesday. The Republican caucus previously backed him, as well as President Pro Tempore David Givens, of Greensburg, in a November election. A former Senate president, Circuit Judge David Williams, administered Stivers the oath of office. Rep. John Blanton, R-Salyersville, left, greets House Minority Floor Leader Pamela Stevenson, D-Louisville, after the start of the 2025 legislative session Tuesday. (LRC Public Information) In a statement thanking his constituents for reelecting him, Stivers acknowledged Republicans who came before him in the Senate. Republicans took control of the body in 2000. I am mindful of the leaders who preceded me in this role, such as David Williams and (former Sen.) Dan Kelly, who laid the foundation for conservative policies that have shaped Kentuckys direction, Stivers said. I am confident that our Senate majority will keep advancing proven economic policies that benefit our states future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the House, Republican Speaker David Osborne, of Prospect, also won reelection with no challengers and began a fourth term in the role. House Republicans reelected him and Speaker Pro Tem David Meade, R-Stanford, in an election last fall. Newly elected and reelected legislators in both chambers were also administered oaths of office Tuesday. Bills to come Lawmakers began introducing bills on Tuesday, including House Bill 1, a Republican priority, to reduce the individual income tax rate. Because the General Assembly isnt considering the states two-year budget and its an odd-numbered year, the legislature will meet for only 30 days this session. Budget sessions, held in even-numbered years, last 60 days. Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ryland Heights, re-filed a proposed constitutional amendment to limit governors pardons and commutation powers around elections. The bill, which gained bipartisan support in the Senate last year but died in the House, will be known as Senate Bill 126 again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentuckians will not vote on constitutional amendments again until 2026. This proposal is designed to ensure that governors remain accountable to the voters for their actions, McDaniel said in a statement about the proposal. While it does not remove the governors constitutional authority to issue pardons, it addresses a critical loophole that became evident following the 2019 gubernatorial election. McDaniel filed the 2023 legislation after reading a news story about a sentence commutation former Republican Gov. Matt Bevin had issued to a man convicted of abduction, rape, robbery and murder. The man was up for a parole hearing, but the Kentucky Parole Board ultimately decided the man should serve the remainder of his sentence. After Bevin lost the 2019 election to Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear, Bevin issued a flurry of pardons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the House, Rep. Rachel Roarx, D-Louisville, filed legislation House Bill 80 on Tuesday to bring back the practice of prefiling bills, to ensure that members of the public know whats coming before session begins and can start to reach out to us about their opinions before we get here the first week. Three years ago, the General Assembly eliminated those measures, which allowed proposed bills to be publicly accessible ahead of a legislative session. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Ukraine and Russia have reached a "preliminary agreement" to conduct regular prisoner exchanges throughout the year, focusing on the return of seriously ill and severely wounded prisoners of war (POWs), Ukraine's Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets announced on Jan. 6. In an interview with the state-run parliamentary broadcaster Rada, Lubinets expressed hope that Russia would honor its commitment. "I do not want this to come across as an official announcement just yet. But we will see if the Russian side keeps its word. If they do, Ukrainian society will notice the systematic nature in terms of quantity, timing, and categories [of prisoners returning home]." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the revised approach for preparing exchange lists, priority will now go to those who are severely injured or critically ill, followed by prisoners who have been in captivity the longest. "For the first time, we managed to establish that we will create lists primarily based on physical health," Lubinets added. In 2024, Ukraine conducted 11 prisoner exchanges and secured the return of 356 more people than in 2023. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, 3,956 people have been released, including 1,358 in 2024. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the numbers in his New Year video address published late on Dec. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 30, Ukraine successfully secured the release of 189 captives from Russian detention, including military personnel and two civilians. The coordination headquarters described it as one of the largest exchanges since the start of the full-scale war. Among those freed were defenders of Azovstal, Mariupol, the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Snake Island, and other key front lines. Read also: I survived a Russian torture camp. So I had to see Assads Sednaya prison Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to eliminate a $400 fee that had been charged by the medical examiner for the transportation and storage of bodies, saying grieving families should be spared that financial burden as an act of compassion. Under state law, bodies are typically transported to the medical examiner in the event of sudden, violent or unusual deaths. The county medical examiner also assesses unattended deaths and those in which the deceased hadn't been seen by a doctor or a registered nurse who is part of a hospice team in the 20 days leading up to death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unanimous vote comes less than a year after the county launched a pilot program to waive the fee across the board for county residents. Families had been previously charged the fee for transporting a body from the location where someone died to the medical examiner facility. "This fee was often unexpected and our county residents were responsible to pay for it," Supervisor Hilda L. Solis said Tuesday before the vote. "We must ensure that the county does what it can to practice compassion and equity by continuing to ease the financial burden for residents who are seeking to lay their loved ones to rest." L.A. County officials said an analysis of county data showed the fee had disproportionately affected poorer residents. Dr. Odey C. Ukpo, the county chief medical examiner, previously told the county board that only half of families were able to pay the fee in recent years. Before the pilot program began, county officials said the medical examiner had waived the fee on a case-by-case basis when families said they couldn't pay. "We shouldn't put the burden of reaching out and asking for help on the person whose family member has just passed away," Supervisor Janice Hahn said when the pilot program was approved last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hahn on Tuesday credited Ukpo with coming up with the idea of eliminating the county fee. She said her understanding was that doing so would make L.A. County the only jurisdiction in the state to end such a charge. (A San Diego County spokesperson subsequently told The Times that their county had stopped charging such fees in 2018.) Waiving the fee for roughly half a year was estimated to cost the county $360,000 and had aided hundreds of families, according to a September report from the medical examiner. A spokesperson for the medical examiner estimated that eliminating the fee entirely would reduce revenue by roughly $1 million annually. Ukpo told the county board that his department had found roughly $500,000 in annual savings by avoiding transportation from hospitals to his facilities in cases where it was unneeded. L.A. County Chief Executive Officer Fesia Davenport added that she and her staff had already identified funds to cover the loss of revenue. 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. Wild weather including rain, snow, high winds and dangerous fire conditions is how Southern California is starting 2025, and officials in L.A. are taking no chances ahead of the adverse conditions. The National Weather Service has described the windstorm hitting SoCal as life-threatening, extreme and destructive, and snow flurries were seen Tuesday morning in mountain communities; further inland, rain showers caused slick roadways. In L.A., Mayor Karen Bass announced Tuesday morning that the city has activated its Emergency Operations Center to a Level 2 to ensure the safety of all Angelenos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former vegan restaurant in Los Angeles closes for good after backlash for adding animal products to menu Parts of the Los Angeles region will potentially face one of the most significant windstorms in more than a decade, and I urge Angelenos to continue monitoring the storm and stay vigilant and safe, Mayor Bass said in a statement. Power outages as a result of downed power lines, increased fire risk and falling trees and debris should be expected during this time and the impacts and dangers of a windstorm should be taken seriously. The mayors office released a list of resources and helpful information for residents to use during the windstorm: Reporting and tracking power outages: Visit www.ladwp.com/outages or call 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397) Reporting blocked roadways: Service can be requested through www.lacity.gov/myla311 or by calling 311; Angelenos are also encouraged to download the MyLA311 mobile app Red Flag Warning updates: Check www.lafd.org/redflag for the latest updates; Red Flag parking restrictions have been in place since 8 a.m. Tuesday and are set to last until further notice Outage updates: LADWP will regularly update their X page to inform residents of power outages Weather updates: Click here for the hyperlocal forecast for your community, or visit the National Weather Service for the regional forecast In case of emergency: Dial 911 In addition to downing trees and causing power outages throughout the region early Tuesday morning, the dangerously high winds are already fueling brush fires in the area, including one that erupted and was later contained in the Santa Ana Riverbed in Colton around 5 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A much larger and more rapidly spreading vegetation fire broke out around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in L.A.s upscale Pacific Palisades neighborhood. By noon, area residents were being told to prepare to evacuate as it spread to over 200 acres in about an hour. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ocean shippers cant be blamed for feeling a little seasick. Port strikes, trade concerns, changing carrier alliances and geopolitics will continue to roil maritime transportation in 2025. Red Sea The attacks on Red Sea shipping by Yemen-based Houthi rebels that all but shut down the Suez Canal to major carriers and reshaped global supply chains have shown signs of abating. The attention of Iran, the Houthis main sponsor, has been distracted by serious domestic issues and Russia, which was reported to have provided maritime targeting data to the rebels, is mired in an expensive war with Ukraine and saw the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, where Moscow maintained naval bases. As a result, the Houthis have shifted their military efforts toward Israel while pressing token attacks on U.S. convoys. Nearly all major ocean container lines in 2024 began diverting services away from the Red Sea and Suez Canal and around the Horn of Africa, adding as much as two weeks time to voyages connecting Asia with Europe, the Mediterranean and the United States. But those more expensive routes turned into a windfall worth billions of dollars for carriers profits, which soared by 600% in the third quarter of 2024 alone. So its likely container lines will be in no rush to return to the region, at least not right away. Alliances Theres a shuffling of carriers in and out of cooperative alliances, vessel-sharing agreements and slot exchanges, with new arrangements scheduled to take effect in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MSC basically is going it alone, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are in the Gemini Cooperation after Hapag left THE Alliance, which is now The Premier Alliance of Yang Ming, ONE and Hyundai, said Lars Jensen, CEO of consultant Vespucci Maritime, on a recent podcast. The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is still reviewing the competitive impact of Premier, which pushed back the start of its trans-Pacific services to May. The Ocean Alliance of Cosco, OOCL, Evergreen and CMA CGM is unchanged. Expect growing pains as the carriers work out cooperation. For the alliances no matter how well-planned out there will be disruptions, Jensen said. We are talking about 500, 600, 700 vessels that need to change their rotations. This will not necessarily go smoothly. But by April or May, the new services will be stabilized. The FMC review is not really threatening to the Premier Alliance. In practical terms, no major impact. Tariffs While a global debate rages over the effects of threatened tariffs under the incoming Trump administration, changes to supply chains are already underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tariffs on China imports levied during the first Trump administration and expanded under President Joe Biden helped put Mexico ahead of China as the United States top trade partner. A number of American companies have moved manufacturing south of the border to take advantage of lower labor costs and favorable crossborder facilitation first under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and later the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. At the same time, China has moved aggressively to nearshore production of U.S.-bound exports to Mexico, building manufacturing facilities and entire industrial parks, to take advantage of favorable terms when moving Made in Mexico products to U.S. markets. Beijing has flexed its economic influence in the region through investments in Mexican ocean hubs by Chinese port operator Hutchison Ports and other entities, at Lazaro Cardenas, Manzanillo and Veracruz. The buildup in Mexico spurred the merger of Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern to form CPKC, the first North American railroad crossing three borders and offering single line service from Mexico through the American midsection to Canada. Ocean carriers are changing, too, offering more direct services from Asia to strategic North American gateways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were seeing a surge in manufacturing in Mexico, not in finished products from China but inputs that go into the manufacturing sector, said Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles. Here in Los Angeles, were enjoying some of that business as well. Whether its cargo that comes into LA and gets trucked down to Mexicali on the Baja Peninsula, or taking a doublestack train over to El Paso to cross the Zaragoza Bridge into Juarez, or continue on into Nuevo Laredo crossing at Laredo, Texas. The integration of more ships and added capacity into the trans-Pacific is likely to proceed without much disturbance, Jensen said. There has been more capacity injection in the trans-Pacific [to the U.S.] than Asia-Europe. It is easier to do that there, Jensen said. Thats three to four vessels versus 12 in the Europe trade. Newcomers tend to favor coming into the trans-Pacific. Chinas exports to the U.S. were 8% higher in November from the same month in 2023, and comparable to Octobers 8.1% increase, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs Bureau. In contrast, imports declined on weaker consumer demand, and the central government plans to take significant measures to stimulate the domestic economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resilient American consumer has fueled record container flows through Chinas ports, the worlds busiest. Shanghai topped more than 40 million twenty-foot equivalent units through October, while overall volume at Chinese ports was up more than 7.6% y/y to 276.4 million TEUs. But persistent congestion has accompanied the surging box traffic, another factor shipping lines have met with blank sailings and rearranged schedules. The diversification of some supply chains away from China to other countries in the region has also meant a reordering of vessel rotations, something for shippers to continue to watch closely. More tariff-related change is coming. In December, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum signed into law an act that ends border-skipping under U.S. statute Section 321 which allows U.S. companies to import goods one order at a time from China to Mexico, for duty-free entry of shipments valued at $800 or less. China has responded to U.S. tariffs by limiting exports of some rare minerals used in defense and technology-related production. These changes in toto will cause manufacturing shifts and further adjustments by ocean carriers. The dark fleet Container lines arent the only vessels to see changes. Merchant vessels linked to China and Russia have been implicated in several suspected incidents of intentional damage to undersea communications cables, and at least one pipeline. Utilizing commercial shipping is a less expensive, lower profile means for actor-states to carry out nefarious plans that could threaten the global maritime industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of increasing concern is the Russian dark fleet older ships lacking proper insurance with opaque ownership, flagged in countries with permissive, open registries that are seen as ripe for fraud and a threat to the global maritime industry. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 the dark fleet has grown to 1,400 vessels, according to the non-partisan Atlantic Council. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented a number of measures to strengthen flag state and port state jurisdiction and control over the 60,000 commercial vessels currently operating in global trade. Port labor strife The good news here, as reported by FreightWays, is that the International Longshoremens Association (ILA) and port employers represented by the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) are expected to resume negotiations on a new master contract covering dockworkers at dozens of ports on the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. The restart of bargaining comes just prior to Jan. 15, the end of an extension of the current contract agreed to after a three-day strike by the ILA in October that shut down container handling and vehicle processing at ports from Texas to New England. Automated container-handling remains a substantial obstacle to completing a new labor agreement. Ocean carriers insist its needed to bring U.S. ports the costliest in the world for shipping up to global efficiency standards. The ILA argues that employers only want to eliminate union jobs, but the USMX counters that increased container volumes would create more dockworker positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If an agreement isnt reached by Jan. 15, the sides could extend the existing contract again. Another strike is also possible. But that would occur just days before the presidential inauguration Jan. 20, and while President-elect Donald Trump in December publicly backed the unions anti-automation position, an extended port work stoppage would cast a shadow on the beginning of his second term. The uncertainty over a new contract, looming tariffs and the Lunar New Year when Asian factories close for several weeks led shippers to frontload imports through the end of 2024. Even as contract talks restart, ocean carriers are advising shippers to clear out loaded containers before Jan. 15, levying surcharges and shifting schedules in case container handling comes to a halt. Still, as with assorted other disruptions, carriers have found that they can make money even when their ships arent moving. Find more articles by Stuart Chirls here. Related coverage: Maersk urges container pickup ahead of potential port strike Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources: ILA, USMX to restart contract talks ahead of deadline for possible port strike VIDEO: Fire damages Vancouver port coal terminal The post Labor strife, tariffs to shadow ocean shipping in 2025 appeared first on FreightWaves. A Labour-led council has knocked back plans for a solar farm on green belt land, tarnishing Ed Milibands ambitions to speed up a net zero upgrade across Britain. The development at Uswell House Farm near the village of Springwell was unanimously rejected by Sunderland City Council on the basis that it would harm the green belt and the agricultural land it is located on, despite advice from planning officers to grant consent. Sunderlands planners had acknowledged that the proposal was an inappropriate development within the green belt, but said it should proceed as it would contribute to meeting national net zero targets, even if the harm would be high both spatially and visually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spanning nearly 151 acres, the solar farm would power more than 11,000 homes per year with almost 60,000 solar panels. Developers had claimed that the project would reduce the nations carbon dioxide emissions by 12,500 tonnes every year. Boom Power, the solar energy business behind the proposals, intends to appeal against the councils decision. Mark Hogan, the founder of Boom Power, said: We were very disappointed, as the project was recommended for approval and we worked tirelessly to meet the concerns of the planning officers, such that they were happy to recommend for approval. The planning process needs a full shake-up. Words and directives from Westminster are clearly being ignored by committees across the country, costing time, money and a shrinking ability to meet the targets of net zero and climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We shall await the formal decision notification, and once received plan the formal path to appeal, but rest assured we shall be appealing the matter. Boom Power had planned to run the site for 40 years before it would be decommissioned and returned to its present state. More than 440 letters of objection were sent to the council ahead of its vote, compared with 32 in support. Those resisting the plans feared the development would disturb wildlife such as lapwings and skylarks, which are ground-nesting birds. Boom Power has suggested offsetting that impact by using a site it owns next to the development to house those species. Objectors also cited a lack of certainty over whether the site would be restored to its existing state after the 40-year time frame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The councils refusal comes after the Energy Secretary vowed to take on the blockers opposing the Governments clean energy proposals, claiming in September that defeating the Nimbys on its net zero drive was a matter of national security. The Energy Secretary, who is planning to fit up to more than 100m solar panels across Britain by 2035 under his strategy to hit net zero targets, according to data. Under Mr Milibands strategy, solar panels will span an estimated 500 sq miles. Assuming the average solar panel measures 2sq metres, this would mean as many as 100m are needed. Mr Miliband wants to turbocharge the nations use of solar voltaics where solar energy is used to generate low carbon electricity from 15 gigawatts (GW) today to around 70GW in a decades time. The aim is to decarbonise the UKs power supplies, reduce reliance on gas and eventually cut prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His plans are opposed by Reform, which seeks to make Labours ambitions for solar farms, onshore wind turbines and pylons across the countryside its top campaigning issue. Sunderland City Council is led by Labour and Co-operative Party councillor Michael Mordey, who was elected to the role in May last year. Correction: An earlier version of this story stated that up to a billion solar panels would be needed, covering up to 750 square miles. We are happy to clarify these figures. 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. Imposing VAT on school fees is not a new idea for Labour. When David Blunkett was in office in 1997 he tried to do it. Tony Blair showing the instincts that made him so electorally successful squashed Blunketts plan flat. Blair saw it was a pointless, spiteful act of class war that would achieve little beyond causing major disruption to the lives of thousands of children, teachers and parents. Blair also knew that the relatively small sums of money raised would not make state schools significantly better. And he believed that the middle class so crucial to Labour gaining power under him would be alienated. This is why the idea of making Britain the only country in the world to tax education was dumped almost 30 years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty years after Blair junked the VAT idea, it was revived under the hard left Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. Egged on by teaching unions, Labour swore blood. When Keir Starmer became Labour leader in 2020, he decided he would keep this crackpot scheme even though he had the amazing good fortune to attend a private school himself, Reigate Grammar School, where his fees were covered by taxpayers. And so as a new term begins, those parents who choose to send their children to a private school are going to have to pay an extra 20 per cent on top of the already hefty fees. Everything about this policy is illogical, nasty and destructive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By sending a child to a private school, a parent is already paying twice: first because their child is not taking up a state school place which the parent as a taxpayer has already funded; and secondly because they are then paying private fees out of their taxed income. For Starmer to expect parents to pay even more money for not using the state system is nothing short of immoral. He knows this, but is just too weak to admit it. Looked at one way, parents who go down the private education route are in fact selfless. Their decision to use their hard-earned cash on school fees frees up places at state schools for children whose parents could never afford to go private. What is so twisted and dishonest about Labours VAT policy is its pretence that any money it raises will benefit the state system. Labour claims that the VAT cash will one day fund an extra 6,500 teachers the equivalent of one third of a teacher for every school in England. This is a fantasy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody knows how much money will be generated because nobody knows yet how many children will be forced out of private schools. Its mere guesswork a charade dressed up as a serious political philosophy. In any case, there are already more than 450,000 teachers in England. Would a few thousand more make such a difference? Labours true desire is that by introducing VAT, some private schools will have to close and more children will end up being educated by the state. This policy is in large part about that thing the socialists love the most: controlling the lives of others. But the effects of private school closures will be job losses or income curtailments. Its not just teachers who will end up in the dole queue but also domestic staff. Freelancers and small businesses who supply the school with equipment, food, music lessons and so on will also be hit financially. And Labour has the cheek to talk of putting growth at the centre of its plan for government. Of course, no Labour minister is brave enough to admit publicly that the plans ultimate goal is to finish off private schools. This makes them cowards, pure and simple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reform UK believes in every citizen having a choice as to how they spend their own money. We would certainly never tax them for doing so when it comes to private education. Nor would we want to wreck a system, such as private schooling, that works. Imagine going into politics to be driven by such negativity and hatred that all you want to do is punish taxpayers for not burdening the state? In government, we would focus on positively improving state schools, not on making life harder for private schools. I should add a further word of warning. Many people believe that taxing private education is just the start. Those who use private healthcare are apparently next in line to be hit with a VAT charge. Starmer and his cabinet ministers might deny this, but remember: you cant believe a word they say. 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. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Laken Riley Act, modifying immigration policies ahead of the new White House administration taking office. Georgia Rep. Mike Collins introduced the legislation last year, and reintroduced it for the 119th Congress, aimed at addressing what he said were failures of the Biden administrations border policies in response to Laken Rileys death in Athens in February 2024. She was killed on the University of Georgia campus while jogging. If you polled the populace and the voters, they would tell you that that was the top of the list, and we have a lot to do there to fix it. Its an absolute disaster because of what has happened over the last four years, and the Laken Riley Act is a big part of that, House Speaker Mike Johnson told ABC News on Tuesday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Venezuelan undocumented migrant Jose Antonio Ibarra was accused, and convicted, of her murder, though he is appealing the conviction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the bill, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security would have to detain non-U.S. nationals who are arrested for burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. The bill also allows states to sue the U.S. government for decisions or alleged failures to enforce immigration law, according to the bill summary. RELATED STORIES: Additionally, DHS must detain any individuals who are unlawfully in the U.S. or who did not have the necessary documents to apply for admission, and has been charged with, arrested for, or admits to having committed acts that constitute the essential elements of burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americans can also sue the government if they suffer a financial harm of more than $100, according to the bills provisions. When the bill was introduced, Laken Rileys family said it had their full endorsement, according to reporting by ABC News. It is unclear if the bill will pass in the U.S. Senate. It needs 60 votes to pass, and while Republicans have a 53-vote majority, the needed votes to send the bill to the presidents desk are not yet confirmed, other than Pennsylvania Democrat Sen. John Fetterman, ABC News reported. Soon after the bill passed in the U.S. House, Rep. Collins shared a statement from the Riley family online, written by Allyson Phillips, Lakens mother, and her stepfather John Phillips. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its impossible to fully describe what was taken from Laken and our family on February 22, 2024. Lakens life was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise. She was a beautiful, shining beacon in the life of everyone who knew her. Not only did the people who knew and loved Laken lose a beautiful soul, but so did our world. Laken shared her love for Jesus with everyone she encountered. Lakens passion for sharing her faith through acts of kindness were felt by everyone she met. Laken was selfless, hardworking and made those around her feels special. Laken did not just talk about her faith, she led by example. The Laken Riley Act has our full support because it would help save innocent lives and prevent more families from going through the kind of heartbreak weve experienced. Laken would have been 23 on January 10th. There is no greater gift that could be given to her and our country than to continue her legacy by saving lives through this bill. Every single member of Congress should be able to get behind this purely common sense bill that will make our communities safer. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] LAKEWAY, Texas (KXAN) The Lakeway Police Department on Monday warned the public about a virtual kidnapping scam that exploits a parents fear for their childs safety. LPD said it came to their attention when they got a call about a parents daughter who had been kidnapped and the scam caller was attempting to meet at a Walmart or Target in the area. The scam caller then suggested they had obtained some information about the parent and their family. LPD said officers were able to determine that the parents daughter and family were safe and unaware of the kidnapping claim by the scam caller. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said that, based on the information obtained, the scam caller was likely attempting to obtain money from the parent. If you receive an unusual or suspicious phone call, you can let the Lakeway Police Department know about the incident by contacting them at 512-261-2800. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HOBBS, New Mexico (KMID/KPEJ) The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is investigating after an officer-involved shooting left one man dead at an area hospital Monday evening. According to New Mexico State Police, at about 6 pm on Monday, January 6, officers attempted to stop a white Dodge Charger near 209 Marland Street. The driver, later identified as 28-year-old Jesus Rubio, of Las Cruces, did not pull over after the officers turned on their emergency lights. Rubio later pulled over and opened his door, with officers commanding Rubio to stay in his vehicle. Rubio ignored those commands and exited his vehicle before holding his right hand behind his back. After commands for Rubio to show his hands to officers, Rubio raised his arms as if to point a firearm as he walked toward the officers. Both officers then fired at least one round from their duty weapons, hitting Rubio. EMS personnel arrived at the scene and transported Rubio to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead by the Office of the Medical Investigator. No officers were injured during the incident and no firearm was recovered from the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NMSP said the officers identities will not be released until interviews are completed. The officers have been placed on administrative leave. The New Mexico State Police said the following regarding how it investigates officer involved shootings: New Mexico State Police act solely as factfinders in their investigation and conduct an unbiased and impartial investigation. In officer involved shootings, NMSP thoroughly documents the scene, collects evidence, and interviews officers, subjects, and witnesses. In turn, NMSP compiles facts as detailed as possible and forwards all reports to the appropriate district attorney for their review. The New Mexico State Police does not determine whether an officers actions were justified, this determination rests solely with the District Attorneys Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A man who police said shot at a persons vehicle at two separate locations, hitting the victim twice, now faces a charge of attempted murder, documents show. On Jan. 1 at around 11:30 p.m., officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department were called to the area of Charleston and Valley View boulevards after a report that a person was shot by a person in an SUV while they were driving, according to an arrest report. The victim told police he was leaving a store in the area in his pickup truck when he saw a light blue SUV driving aggressively and the suspect likely cut [the victim] off. Near Valley View and El Parque boulevards, the driver of the SUV fired multiple rounds toward the victims vehicle, breaking the drivers side window, the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers found broken glass at the intersection, corroborating the victims story. The victim said he followed the SUV toward Charleston and Valley View to obtain the vehicles license plate. The SUV stopped at Fulton Place and North Star Street, where the driver, identified as Joshua Mathews, exited the vehicle, and fired multiple rounds, hitting the pickup four times. The victim was grazed in his left thigh and his right arm, according to the report. Mathews drove away from the scene and police later located a vehicle matching the description of the SUV on Valley View Boulevard and the US 95 on-ramp. Officers took Mathews into custody without incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim later positively identified Mathews during a photo lineup as the person who shot him. Mathews refused to speak with detectives and police booked him into the Clark County Detention Center for attempted murder and discharging a gun at/into an occupied structure or vehicle. Mathews was held on a $100,000 bail but posted bond on Tuesday, Jan. 7. His bail conditions included staying out of trouble and not having any weapons in his possession. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Police found a six-page manifesto on Matthew Livelsbergers phone and said he used ChatGPT to plan his New Years Day bombing at the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, Sheriff Kevin McMahill said at a news conference Tuesday. Livelsberger, 37, shot himself in the head just before fireworks and other explosive material detonated in the back of a Tesla Cybertruck parked at the front entrance of the hotel. Livelsberger, a Green Beret in the U.S. Army Special Forces, was home on leave in Colorado Springs, Colorado, when he rented the Cybertruck and drove to Las Vegas. The explosion was set off using racing fuel and birdshot, the ATF said Tuesday. The blast was not triggered by a detonator but by an unknown flame, which could include the gunshot Livelsberger used to kill himself. WARNING: The following photos are graphic and may be disturbing. Discretion is advised. Surveillance footage shows Matthew Livelsberger, 37, pouring racing fuel onto explosive materials in the Cybertruck before detonating the truck at the front entrance of the Las Vegas Trump hotel on New Years Day. (LVMPD) LVMPD photo shows an initial flash happen moments before the large explosion at the front entrance of the Las Vegas Trump hotel on New Years Day. Police believe this was when Matthew Livelsberger, 37, shot himself. (LVMPD) Photos show recovered cart casings from the Cybertruck that Matthew Livelsberger, 37, detonated at the front entrance of the Las Vegas Trump hotel on New Years Day. (LVMPD) Before and after footage shows the Cybertruck was leaking fuel as it pulled into the entrance of the Trump International Hotel. (LVMPD) Police suspect Livelsberger initially planned an attack at the Grand Canyon, potentially to launch off the glass skywalk there, but diverted to Las Vegas, police said based off more documents discovered on his phone. LVMPD Asst. Sheriff Dori Koren said police still do not know why he chose Trump Tower instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a news conference last week, FBI Special Agent In Charge Spencer Evans said Livelsberger didnt hold any animosity toward President-elect Donald Trump or Tesla CEO Elon Musk. In the manifesto, police found a variance of grievances including political and social issues, such as criticisms of the current administration. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials on Tuesday provided segments of a manifesto written by Matthew Livelsberger before the Cybertruck bombing at Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials on Tuesday provided segments of a manifesto written by Matthew Livelsberger before the Cybertruck bombing at Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials on Tuesday provided segments of a manifesto written by Matthew Livelsberger before the Cybertruck bombing at Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. Livelsberger wrote he had graphic encounters replaying in his head from the Army and that he only intended to kill himself. Asst. Sheriff Koren said this added to the evidence previously discussed that Livelsberger likely suffered from PTSD. TIME TO WAKE UP! Tesla Cybertruck driver left messages before Las Vegas bombing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday evening, LVMPD officials released a journal of Livelsbergers trip that investigators discovered. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials released a journal of Livelsbergers trip discovered by investigators. (LVMPD) Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials released a journal of Livelsbergers trip discovered by investigators. (LVMPD) Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials released a journal of Livelsbergers trip discovered by investigators. (LVMPD) Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials released a journal of Livelsbergers trip discovered by investigators. (LVMPD) Police also said Livelsberger used ChatGPT to help plan out the attack. A few of the entries posted in the application included How much Tannerite is equivalent to 1 pound of TNT? and What pistol could set it off? Other questions asked to ChatGPT included where to buy fireworks and the location of the largest gun store in Denver. Metro provided screenshots show searches made by Matthew Livelsberger on ChatGPT before Cybertruck explosion. (LVMPD) Metro provided screenshots show searches made by Matthew Livelsberger on ChatGPT before Cybertruck explosion. (LVMPD) Metro provided screenshots show searches made by Matthew Livelsberger on ChatGPT before Cybertruck explosion. (LVMPD) Metro provided screenshots show searches made by Matthew Livelsberger on ChatGPT before Cybertruck explosion. (LVMPD) We are saddened by this incident and committed to seeing AI tools used responsibly, a spokesperson from OpenAI, who owns ChatGPT, said in a statement. Our models are designed to refuse harmful instructions and minimize harmful content. In this case, ChatGPT responded with information already publicly available on the internet and provided warnings against harmful or illegal activities. Were working with law enforcement to support their investigation. One person is dead and seven others are injured following the explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck at the main entrance to the Las Vegas Trump International Hotel Wednesday morning. (LVMPD) A photo of the Tesla Cybertruck involved in the explosion outside of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Jan. 1, 2025. (LVMPD) A photo of the passport of Matthew Livelsberger, 37, found in the aftermath of the Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Jan. 1, 2025. (LVMPD) A photo of a gun almost burnt beyond recognition found in the aftermath of the Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Jan. 1, 2025. (LVMPD) A photo of a gun almost burnt beyond recognition found in the aftermath of the Tesla Cybertruck explosion outside of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Jan. 1, 2025. (LVMPD) Photo shows fireworks and other debris found inside the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on Jan. 1, 2025. (LVMPD) This investigation is far from over, McMahill, adding there was a laptop, another phone, and a smartwatch to go through as of Tuesday. 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 KLAS. Trump ally Laura Loomer suggested Meta should put her on its advisory board hours after the social media giants CEO announced it was scrapping fact-checkers. Meta plans to ditch its fact-checkers and start using Community Notes, similar to Xs system, Mark Zuckerberg announced in a video Tuesday morning, citing the recent election, politically biased fact-checkers, and too much censorship on social platforms. Hours later, Loomer, a notorious far-right conspiracy theorist and vocal supporter of Trump, said she wants to be added to the tech companys advisory board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Meta @Meta is serious about ending censorship and restoring good faith with MAGA, then they should put me on their advisory board, she wrote in a post on X. Far-right activist Laura Loomer listens as Donald Trump speaks during a Get Out The Vote rally (Getty Images) She argued she was the perfect person for the job, given her turbulent history with social media platforms. Think about it. Facebook permanently banned me in 2019, then they permanently banned me on Instagram, then they created a new policy to keep my campaign off of Facebook, they banned all of my campaign ads and they banned keyword searches of my name, Loomer continued. She mentioned how Meta put her on its dangerous individuals list. Loomer even sued Meta, then Facebook, in 2019 for defamation after she was put on the dangerous individuals list. The case was ultimately dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aside from President Trump and @RealAlexJones, I have probably been the most Targeted conservative voice by Meta, she continued. Last month, Loomer engaged in what she described as a civil war with Elon Musk and others in the MAGA world over H-1B visas. She accused Musk of silencing her and removing her blue check mark on X because I dared to question his support for H1B visas. Loomer, a failed Florida congressional candidate, has described Islam as a cancer on humanity and called the 9/11 terrorist attacks an inside job a phrase she has also used to describe the Butler, Pennsylvania, assassination attempt against Trump, as well as the Capitol riot. Mark Zuckerberg announces Meta will be ditching politically biased fact-checkers, citing a cultural tipping point' (Meta) If Meta is serious about changing, they should prove it by calling me and restoring my accounts and they should make me a member of their advisory board, Loomer added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Zuckerbergs announcement, he said the changes are partly inspired by a changing cultural climate, referring to Donald Trumps election win. The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point toward once again prioritizing speech. So were gonna get back to our roots, and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies, and restoring freedom of expression on our platforms, he said. Loomers request comes one day after Meta announced that it added three new members to its advisory board: UFC President and CEO Dana White, John Elkann and technology investor Charlie Songhurst. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) A large law enforcement presence was spotted in Warren late Monday morning. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents and troopers with the Ohio State Highway Patrol were spotted searching a detached garage off North Street NW near North Park Avenue. The garage is located behind a former funeral home. First News is still working to learn why law enforcement was there. We have reached out to the U.S. Attorneys Office for information but have yet to hear back. 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. HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) Pennsylvania lawmakers on Tuesday returned Democratic Speaker Joanna McClinton to lead the chamber for the new session after the Republican floor leader bowed out to resolve a deadlock. Democrats won 102 seats in November, a single-vote majority, but one of their members was absent from swearing-in day after suffering a health crisis. "My question to each of you distinguished colleagues is, what will you be remembered for?" McClinton said after taking the oath of office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the initial vote for speaker, Republican Leader Jesse Topper and McClinton each garnered 101 votes. Topper removed himself from consideration and McClinton, of Philadelphia, prevailed on the second ballot on a voice vote. Rep. Matthew Gergely had a medical emergency over the holidays requiring hospitalization, according to Beth Rementer, the House Democratic caucus spokesperson. She said he is not expected to return for some time. Gergelys absence, the close House margin and Republican control of the Senate could complicate first-term Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiros hopes of getting things done this year. Democrats had the same 102-101 majority in the last session, and other than the two annual budgets, little substantial legislation was enacted. Democrats won chamber control two years ago and successfully defended it while several vacancies arose and were filled by special elections. In November, not one of the 203 House seats changed parties, meaning Democrats retained majority control by the slimmest of margins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Democratic Leader Matt Bradford of Montgomery County thanked Topper, who drew a standing ovation, as Bradford acknowledged the close margin, telling colleagues we need to be humble and we need to be wise. In floor remarks, Topper wished Gergely a full and speedy recovery. "There are very few days in this job that are not difficult," Topper said, urging members to feel gratitude for the opportunity to serve and to avoid becoming frustrated or cynical. We see many of those who we represent not on their best day, but on their worst. House Republicans changed leadership since November, turning to Topper of Bedford County to be their floor leader. A former ranking member on the Education Committee, Topper succeeded Rep. Bryan Cutler, a former House speaker and caucus leader who remains in the House after being reelected in a Lancaster County district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Topper told reporters after the session that he negotiated several changes to House rules, putting more minority party members on committees, requiring an additional yes vote for bills to get out of committee and parliamentary changes. House Democrats meanwhile have five new members after Reps. Mike Sturla of Lancaster County and former House Speaker Mark Rozzi of Berks County retired; Reps. Patti Kim of Dauphin County and Nick Pisciottano of Allegheny County relinquished their seats to make successful runs for state Senate; and Rep. Kevin Boyle of Philadelphia lost in the spring primary. House Republicans saw Rep. Dawn Keefer win a state Senate seat in York County and Rep. Ryan Mackenzie unseat Democratic U.S. Rep. Susan Wild. In other GOP caucus changes, Rep. Rob Mercuri didn't seek reelection while running unsuccessfully for Congress in Allegheny County. Reps. Jim Gregory of Blair County and Mike Cabell of Luzerne County lost in the spring primary and six others didn't run again: Donna Oberlander of Clarion County, Jim Marshall of Beaver County, Aaron Kaufer of Luzerne County, George Dunbar of Westmoreland County, Paul Schemel of Franklin County and Barry Jozwiak of Berks County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the state Senate, Republican Joe Picozzi unseated freshman Democratic Sen. Jimmy Dillon in a Philadelphia district. Because Kim flipped a redistricted Harrisburg area seat, Republicans still control the chamber by the same margin, 28-22. But there is currently one Senate vacancy: Sen. Ryan Aument, a Lancaster Republican, resigned at the end of December to take a top staff job with incoming U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick. On Tuesday, a special election to fill Aument's seat was scheduled to be held on March 25. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. 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. Editor's note: Letters to the editor reflect the views of individual readers. Scroll to the bottom to see how you can add your voice, whether you agree or disagree. We welcome diverse viewpoints. Tennessee will not tolerate hatred in any form. Those are the words of Tennessee Majority Leader William Lamberth recently after proposing the Protecting Everyone Against Crime and Extremism (PEACE) Act. However, on Oct. 21, 2022 he boldly stood in front of the Tennessee State Capitol in the company of Matt Walsh of the Daily Wire and members of the Alliance Defending Freedom, Do NO Harm, and the Proud Boys all of which are designated as hate groups by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Representative William Lamberth listens to discussion speaks at the end of the legislative session in the Tennessee House of Representatives in Nashville, Tenn., on Wednesday, May 5, 2021. In his condemnation of hate groups, Lamberth says their tactics are deliberate efforts to terrify people and create profound distress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is an excellent description of the Oct. 21, 2022 rally that Lamberth attended. Under the guise of protecting children, its real purpose was to stoke fear and vilify the transgender community. Opinion: Canvas bar founder built space for LGBTQIA people. Emulate his courage, kindness. Lamberth announced he was sponsoring a bill that would ban transgender minors from receiving the vital medical care needed to treat their gender dysphoria. The ensuing law has indeed created profound distress for Tennessees transgender children and their families. The LGBTQ+ community refers to the bills targeting them as the Slate of Hate because that is what they are. Representative Lamberth knows full well that hate thrives in our Republican-controlled state legislature and he has no intention of changing that. His proposed The PEACE Act which is supposed to crackdown on hate crimes is just a distraction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ruthann Getz, Nashville 37205 Agree or disagree? Or have a view on another topic entirely? Send a letter of 250 words or fewer to letters@tennessean.com. Include your full name, city/town, ZIP and contact information for verification. Thanks for adding to the public conversation. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: PEACE Act distracts from hateful laws passed in Tennessee | Letters This story first appeared in How We Care, a weekly newsletter by Spotlight PA featuring original reporting and perspectives on how we care for one another at all stages of life. Sign up for free here. The General Assembly reconvenes this week, kicking off another session of drafting, debating, and voting on legislation that could affect people across the commonwealth. Many Pennsylvanians are parents, and legislative memos which preview bills before lawmakers formally introduce them show some of elected officials latest plans to address the financial burdens of raising kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How We Care has selected three memos addressing paid family leave, pre-K access, and child care costs to highlight some of the issues parents face. Not every memo will necessarily become a bill, nor do most bills become law, but the legislation shows what caregiving concerns lawmakers are prioritizing and their approaches to these problems. Issue: Paid family and medical leave Prime Sponsor: State Rep. Kristin Marcell (R., Bucks) Proposal: Creating a state tax credit that expands access to paid family and medical leave by matching the existing credit employers can claim on their federal returns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal incentive lets employers claim a tax credit thats equal to a percentage of the wages they pay employees who take time off for family or medical leave. In other words, it encourages businesses to pay workers who take off for personal or familial medical issues, which can help them maintain employment and income during a critical time in their personal lives. Under Marcells proposed match, employers who offer paid family and medical leave would receive additional support from the state. Marcells bill would limit the amount that all Pennsylvania employers could claim to $100 million per year, and distribute it on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost will be predictable, and this bill does not raise any taxes or represent a mandate on any employer, she wrote in the memo for the legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Democratic and Republican members backed a version of the bill introduced during the last legislative session. Despite that bipartisan support, the Democrat who controlled the state House Finance Committee didnt bring the bill up for a vote. Under that version, the proposed tax credit was nonrefundable: That means it could reduce someones tax bill to $0, but would not give them money back. Because that proposed tax break was nonrefundable, the benefit it offered to employers was finite, argued Donna Cooper, executive director of the Philadelphia-based nonprofit Children First. Cooper cited a recent report from the Independent Fiscal Office that found nearly two-thirds of corporate net income returns in Pennsylvania had tax liabilities of less than $10,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because the tax liabilities for many small and medium-sized companies are already low, Cooper argued that a nonrefundable tax credit would not likely motivate more employers to offer paid leave. So many caregivers would remain in the same position theyre in now. Instead, Cooper wants to see universal paid leave, such as what was proposed last session. Issue: Child care costs Prime Sponsor: State Rep. Aaron Bernstine (R., Lawrence) Proposal: A tax credit to help Pennsylvania parents afford child care by allowing them to deduct up to $10,000 on their state returns. Nationwide, child care costs can amount to thousands of dollars per year, according to figures from the Annie E. Casey Foundation. In 2022, the annual cost of center-based care for a toddler in Pennsylvania was $11,346. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child care costs continue to be a financial burden for working families in America and in our very own state, Bernstine said in his Dec. 19 memorandum. Bernstine said the bill aims to provide relief to families. But such a tax break would address only one side of the issue, said Robert S. Carl, president of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately child care slots are shrinking and child care facilities continue to close due to the inability to recruit and retain child care teachers, wrote Carl in an email. So even families that can afford to pay thousands of dollars every year struggle to find quality child care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Spotlight PA reported in May, the number of center-based child care providers has dropped by nearly 9% since before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. A major driver of the closures is low pay, which causes caregivers to leave the field for less demanding jobs. Thats why Schuylikills chamber is part of a coalition of more than 50 Pennsylvania business groups lobbying to subsidize child care worker salaries. In a letter sent to state lawmakers in June, the coalition argued the dearth of quality child care harms virtually all economic sectors of Pennsylvania. Issue: Pre-K access Prime Sponsor: State Rep. Tarik Khan (D., Philadelphia) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Proposal: A requirement that schools provide pre-K education to all eligible children. Just 46% of eligible 3- and 4-year-olds in Pennsylvania participate in publicly funded pre-K, according to a 2024 report co-authored by multiple child advocacy groups. The report argues that low pay results in fewer early childhood educators which creates a shortage of pre-K classrooms. Khans memorandum is light on details, and his office did not respond to requests for clarification by publication time. It does not explain if his proposed pre-K mandate comes with additional funding. The memo notes that pre-K is a powerful intervention to help reduce income and achievement gaps. Research backs this up. Kids who attend pre-K are more likely to attend college and to vote, and are less likely to be arrested for a violent crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pre-K also can benefit parents, according to one study from the National Bureau of Economic Research. Parents of pre-K students in New Haven, Connecticut, earned $5,461 per year more than the parents of kids who werent enrolled, a disparity that the researchers attributed to the former being less likely to have career gaps. In other words, the pre-K program replaced the need for child care. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sen. Valarie Lawson, an East Providence Democrat, is poised to become the new Senate majority leader. (Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) Sen. Valarie Lawson looks almost uncomfortable when she initially sits down for an interview in a third-floor Rhode Island Senate office in early December. She smiles, looking down at the table. But her shyness evaporates as soon as the discussion turns to topics the East Providence Democrat is most passionate about. Lawsons hands dance wildly as she recalls teaching the Electoral College to East Providence High School students during her three decades as a public school teacher. Her head bobs back and forth as she explains why a law enacted last year extending paid leave for parents and caregivers from six to eight weeks is still not enough for the thousands of Rhode Islanders struggling to make ends meet while taking care of babies and sick family members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe in government, and I believe government can work for people, she said. Were here to put in structures to uplift people, to be advocates for them. Its that combination of humility, passion and commitment that made colleagues back Lawson as Senate majority leader in a 32-1 Democratic caucus vote one person voted present two days after the Nov. 5 election. The vote for Lawson, 58, was a rare moment of agreement during an otherwise tense gathering. Senate Democrats struggled to reach consensus on the rules governing their meeting, much less who would be the Senate president. Lawson will be formally sworn in as the second-in-command to Senate President Dominick Ruggerio at 4 p.m. Tuesday, when the Rhode Island General Assembly kicks off its 2025 session. Her ascension comes at a time of deep unrest among Senate Democrats still reeling from the feud between Ruggerio and former Senate Majority Leader Ryan Pearson, after Pearson tried unsuccessfully to oust Ruggerio from the top spot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawson is a professional organizer, having spent the last year rallying the 12,000 members of the National Education Association of Rhode Island as union president. Add in a heavy dose of patience, honed through 32 years teaching social studies to middle and high school students in East Providence schools, and she just might be the best person to revive a floundering state Senate. Head down and do-the-work type Theres a financial storm looming with a projected $330 million budget deficit for the fiscal year that starts July 1. Also: a crippling primary care worker shortage, a cyberattack that could have compromised personal information of almost two-thirds of state residents, and lingering doubts among some Senate Democrats over Ruggerios ability to serve, given his slew of health problems last year. I think the last couple of years here have been difficult, right? Lawson said. At the end of the day, I think everyone in the chamber, really, were here for the right reasons. Thats about getting things done for our constituents, in making Rhode Island a better place. And I think at the end of the day, thats what matters to all of us, and collectively, that chamber will work towards that. Lawson said she is deeply humbled by the support of her Democratic colleagues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They think theres someone that they can approach to be their ally, advocate and get things done, she said. And thats what I want to do. The resounding support for Lawson came as no surprise to Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore, who has known Lawson since childhood when both attended East Providence public schools. Shes a head down and do-the-work type, Amore said of Lawson. Shes a grinder. Shes a worker. I believe in government, and I believe government can work for people. Were here to put in structures to uplift people, to be advocates for them. Sen. Valarie Lawson, an East Providence Democrat who will be sworn in as Senate majority leader Tuesday An avid learner with a passion for history, Lawson decided she wanted to be a teacher at an early age. After graduating from East Providence High School alongside Amore, her classmate and fellow Townie she studied secondary education and history at Rhode Island College (RIC). She later returned to RIC for a masters degree in education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fresh out of college, she started working at Edward R. Martin Middle School in East Providence as a 7th grade social studies teacher. She soon found not every student was like her, eager to learn and in the right circumstances to do so. The ensuing 32 years in the classrooms at Martin and later, East Providence High School, schooled Lawson in the various learning, socioeconomic and health struggles that influence student performance in the classroom. Its why she sponsored legislation, passed in 2021, to make feminine hygiene products available in all state public schools. And why shes still vehemently pursuing legislation that would make school meals free for all students, regardless of income. With an estimated $35 million price tag, free school meals have been a tough pill for legislative leaders, including Ruggerio, to swallow in years past. Despite the looming budget deficit, Ruggerio now seems more open. Its hard for kids to learn when theyre hungry, Ruggerio said in a December interview. President Dominick J. Ruggerio and Senate Majority Whip Valerie J. Lawson discuss their legislative priorities ahead of the 2025 session during a meeting in December 2024. (Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) Two of a kind, sort of Ruggerio announced in October that he was supporting Lawson as his second-in-command, cementing whispers of a growing feud between him and Pearson that began during the 2024 session when Pearson allegedly expressed interest in taking the Senate president role amid Ruggerios declining health. Pearson received nine votes in his bid to oust the sitting Senate president at the Nov 7 caucus. But Ruggerio still triumphed with 23 votes and strict loyalty from his supporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first blush, Lawson and Ruggerio seemed an unlikely pairing, even though Ruggerio had promoted Lawson to Senate majority whip the year before. Ruggerio, a 40-year State House veteran, has long opposed stricter gun regulations and, until recently, abortion rights. Lawson co-sponsored legislation banning assault-style weapons in 2024, and has been a steadfast supporter of abortion rights since her first day in office six years ago. Both share backgrounds in labor. Ruggerio retired from his role as administrator of the New England Laborers Management Coop Trust in 2017; Lawson embraced organizing as a full-time job when she was elected president of the state teachers union in 2023. She previously served in several leadership roles, including as president, for the East Providence teachers union while working for the school district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we complement one another, right? Lawson said of her and Ruggerio. We share a lot of similar beliefs. But we also have different viewpoints on things. And I think one of the Senate presidents strengths is hes willing and open to listen to people. Ruggerio was quick to dismiss the notion that he was becoming more progressive. But, he said he was more open on certain issues, including free school meals, and, in an unexpected about-face, even an assault weapons ban. Call it the Lawson effect. Its inspired teenagers to care about The Federalist Papers. Its helped unite thousands of public school teachers across the state on union positions on special education funding, protections against school book bans and engagement in the Nov. 5 election. And its left a lasting impression on her fellow Democratic senators who represent a range of ideologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you have folks like Frank Lombardi talking about how much he admires and respects her and Sam Bell saying the exact same thing you know she has political skill that is rare, said Amore, referring to two Democratic state senators on opposite ends of the ideological spectrum. Lombardi retired from office last year and did not attend the Nov. 7 caucus at the Providence restaurant Waterman Grille. Bell, who was reelected to represent Providence, backed Lawson, but abstained from the vote on the Senate president. Sen. Pam Lauria, a Barrington Democrat and nurse practitioner who heads the Senate panel tasked with studying the prospect of a state medical school, cast the one present vote at the caucus. I couldnt vote for the Senate President, but I wasnt trying to vote against him, Lauria said in a recent interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But her support for Lawson remained unwavering. The support for Val really speaks to somebody to be able to have relationships with the whole chamber, not just specific groups of people that think the same way about policy, Lauria said. I am hopeful she can help with the cohesion of the Senate. Pearson declined to comment on Lawsons new position. Rhode Island Senate Majority Leader Ryan Pearson, left, confers with Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, right, on the last night of the 2024 legislative session on June 13, 2024. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) Health care reform among priorities Lawson won the 2018 Democratic primary against Delmar Condinho by 16 percentage points in her first run for state office, despite Condinho receiving both the district committee endorsement and that of longtime seat-holder Dan DaPonte. Lawson was unopposed in the November 2018 general election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawson faced a steep learning curve in her freshman term, witnessing the intricacies of policies she was voting on and the cultural norms that shaped State House behavior. Bills she expected to move quickly, given their seemingly noncontroversial nature, dragged on for months, or even multiple legislative sessions. It took two go-rounds for both chambers to pass Lawsons bill requiring insurers to cover treatment for children with neuropsychiatric disorders which can result from strep throat or similar infections. Gov. Dan McKee signed the legislation into law in May 2022. Lawson named the insurance coverage bill as one of her top accomplishments, pledging to revisit the legislation this year in light of new cost data insurers were required to submit to the Rhode Island Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner on Jan. 1. Also high on Lawsons very long list is increasing reimbursement rates to primary care providers and assessing the potential for a state medical school at the University of Rhode Island. She also wants to address well-documented gaps in care for children with behavioral and mental health diagnoses, and pursue legislative oversight hearings on the Washington Bridge and the cyberattack on the RIBridges public benefits platform. All of which might be easier than healing the wounds of betrayal and distrust among Senate Democrats. She certainly is a leader who leads from her values, said Mary Barden, executive director for the teachers union, who works hand-in-hand with Lawson to organize and advocate for members. That collaboration, that consensus-building, listening to and valuing others opinions, is the same set of skills that makes her very good here and makes her a very good state senator. Amore, who worked alongside Lawson at East Providence High School, agreed. If you can do cafeteria duty, you can do anything, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX According to the lawsuit, the St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education told Chester Asher hed been warned about being disrespectful while speaking at public meetings before issuing a six-month ban(Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent). An education advocate filed a federal lawsuit Monday against St. Louis Public School Board alleging it illegally banned him from meetings and district property. Chester Asher, founder of Coalition for STL Kids, filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court of Eastern Missouri with the help of the First Amendment Clinic at Washington University in St. Louis. He alleges the ban violated his constitutional rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Named as defendants in the suit are the school district, board and board president, Antionette Cousins. According to the lawsuit, the St. Louis Public Schools Board of Education told Asher hed been warned about being disrespectful while speaking at public meetings before issuing a six-month ban. While the ban started in March and concluded in September, Asher said the lawsuit isnt just about me and my individual six-month suspension. Its about teachers, parents and others who tell me theyre afraid of retaliation if they speak up at board meetings about whats concerning them, Asher told The Independent. A regular attendee at board meetings for two years, Asher has often spoken during public comment sessions, criticizing the board and administration over budget decisions, staff turnover and test scores that show the majority of Black students in the district reading below grade level, among other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Case law, the litigation states, supports a profound, national commitment to the principle that debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust, and wide-open, and that it may well include vehement, caustic, and sometimes unpleasantly sharp attacks on government and public officials. Such speech, may not be censored because it is critical of government officials, employees or policies, even if such criticisms are expressed in ways that are unpleasant or offensive, according to the lawsuit. Restrictions on speech in limited public forums must be both reasonable in light of the forums purpose and viewpoint neutral. The boards public comment rules require speakers remain respectful and refrain from speaking derogatorily about anyone, the lawsuit says. These restrictions, along with a prohibition on personal attacks are viewpoint discriminatory restrictions on speech and are unconstitutional on their face, the lawsuit states. Among the examples cited in the lawsuit of how Ashers speech was passionate, yet protected, include criticizing the district for hosting the U.S. education secretary at a city public school where the majority of students are reading and doing math below grade level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You all had the audacity to bring the secretary of education to a school where 85% of the kids cant read on grade level. Did you all tell them that? Where 95% of the kids arent on grade level for math . . . Are you out of your mind? Asher said at a September 2023 board meeting. Asher later added: We come to the board of education and hear nothing, not a g**damn thing about education and literacy and reading for our children. Stop it. St. Louis Public Schools were closed Monday due to weather. An email sent to Cousins was not immediately returned, nor was a phone message for a St. Louis law firm involved in the drafting of the school boards no-trespass letter to Asher. Since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed states like Texas to ban nearly all abortions, the number of pregnancy terminations in the United States actually increased. This paradox, which pleases abortion advocates as much as it frustrates their conservative counterparts, hinges mostly on pills. An average of 2,800 Texans receive abortion-inducing medications through the mail each month from states that still allow abortion, according to #WeCount, a tracking project from the Society of Family Planning. Until recently, abortion-ban states like Texas mostly gnashed their teeth and railed against their blue state counterparts for allowing this underground enterprise to flourish. But now, theyre using lawsuits and legislation to more directly attack these abortion pill providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a first-of-its-kind civil lawsuit against a New York doctor for allegedly prescribing abortion pills to a Texas resident, setting up a conflict between Texas abortion ban and New Yorks shield laws. Legislators are filing bills for the upcoming session that would give the state more tools to try to root out this practice. And they do all of this knowing the incoming Trump administration has their back. Were getting to the point where, if we dont start swinging, start adopting new tools, these websites and the 20,000 abortion pills coming into the state [each year] are going to become the new status quo, said John Seago, the president of Texas Right to Life. I dont judge legislators for trying something that doesnt work. But we are demanding that they start swinging. The lawsuit strategy In 2023, on the eve of the first anniversary of the Dobbs decision, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed into law a sweeping set of protections for abortion providers. The shield law meant New York wouldnt cooperate with another states efforts to prosecute, penalize, sue one of our health care providers who prescribed abortion medication, Hochul said. You can continue hell-bent down your path on continuing this radical behavior, she said, addressing anti-abortion states like Texas. But well be just as hell-bent on stopping you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Almost immediately, providers in New York joined those in Massachusetts, California and other shield law states in providing abortion pills via telehealth appointments and mail-order pharmacies to patients in abortion-ban states. The health care they provided was fully legal in the state they were based in, but clearly illegal in the states their patients are based in, and they undertook this work knowing they were courting legal challenges. If anything, its a surprise how long it took, said Mary Ziegler, an abortion legal historian at UC Davis School of Law. Everyone has been expecting this and preparing for this, Ziegler said. And its no surprise that its Texas that brought this first suit. In mid-December, Paxton filed a lawsuit in Collin County alleging Dr. Maggie Carpenter, the founder of the Abortion Coalition for Telemedicine Access, provided a Texas woman with abortion pills in violation of state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carpenters group not only provides direct patient care but also advises other shield providers on technical and legal support. The group was co-founded by Carpenter, Dr. Linda Prine and Julie Kay, a former ACLU attorney who led the lawsuit that overturned Irelands abortion ban. This is someone who is part of a network, part of a movement, Ziegler said. Theyre prepared for this test of the shield law. But Texas was prepared, too, and legal experts are not certain how exactly this will play out. Nothing in New Yorks shield law prevents a Texas court from hearing a case against a New York doctor, said Paul Schiff Berman, a law professor who specializes in conflicts of state law at the George Washington University law school. If Carpenter doesnt show up to the hearing, Paxtons office will likely ask the court for a default judgement. If that is granted, Paxton can ask a New York state court to enforce it, which is where the shield law may come into play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But much of the shield laws protections are about protecting doctors from criminal investigations and regulatory consequences, like losing their medical licenses. In a civil suit, like the one Paxton has filed, its much harder for one state to undermine anothers ruling, Berman said. The U.S. Constitution specifically requires that a civil judgement issued in one state, like Texas, is enforceable in all states, regardless of their other laws. This clause applies most clearly to private lawsuits if a court orders you to pay someone youve harmed to make them whole, that judgement is enforceable no matter where you live. You dont want it to be that if I sue you and win in Texas, and you flee to New Mexico, that I have to sue you all over again in New Mexico, and then you flee to California and it starts again, Berman said. But when its a state, not an individual, bringing the lawsuit, the judgement may not be as easily enforced. Theres an exception for penal judgements, when one state is using a civil lawsuit to try to enforce their state laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is clearly not just one random person suing another random person, Ziegler said. New Yorks best argument is that this is the state of Texas enforcing its abortion policy through a lawsuit, which is a penal judgement, and they wouldnt have to deal with that. But this is a rarely litigated question the federal courts havent meaningfully waded into in decades. Complicating matters further is a provision in New Yorks shield law that would allow Carpenter to sue Texas right back, opening the door to more questions about sovereign immunity and state-on-state litigation. It is, put simply, a mess, Ziegler said. If New York wins, as in they don't have to enforce the judgment, that doesn't mean that the state 100% would know what happens with other types of defendants, she said. And if Texas wins, I don't think that's going to be the end of abortion pills, or necessarily a guarantee that Texas's abortion rate will plummet. There are no quick fixes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seago, with Texas Right to Life, agrees. He sees the Carpenter lawsuit as a very encouraging step, but said theres no one legal strategy that will bring the practice of mailing abortion pills into Texas to a stop. There's a long list of areas of law that have not been tested, and areas where we need to start getting precedent, he said. We need to start getting some specific fact patterns before judges for them to determine whether some of the laws we already have on the books apply. Some of these lawsuits will be brought by Paxtons office, but Seago said he anticipates private wrongful death lawsuits, as well as lawsuits against people who aid or abet in illegal abortions, as prohibited by Texas ban on most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy. There's no silver bullet, he said. These are really difficult cases because these websites are run by individuals and others in other countries, their websites, their domains are out of our jurisdiction, the pharmacies they are using are outside of the country as well. The legislative approach Last legislative session was the quietest in decades for abortion. After successfully banning nearly all abortions, Republicans were wary about continuing to push an issue that is widely unpopular with voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This session, coming off a Republican rout in November, Seago is hopeful that lawmakers will feel more empowered to continue restricting abortions, and especially abortion pills. Texas is uniquely positioned to lead on these cutting-edge pro-life issues, Seago said. Some of our friends in red states are still playing defense. Theyre fighting off constitutional amendments. Theyre still fighting off exceptions to their laws. Were in a solid place to start fighting back. Texas has no mechanism to put a constitutional amendment to increase abortion access on the ballot without the approval of lawmakers, and while Democrats have filed bills to add more exceptions to the abortion laws, they are once again expected to not get any traction. But whether conservative efforts to further restrict abortion pills will take hold also remains to be seen. Rep. Nate Schatzline, a conservative Republican from Fort Worth, has filed House Bill 1651, which would make it a deceptive trade practice to send abortion pills through the mail without verifying that they were prescribed by an in-state doctor after an in-person exam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another bill, HB 991, filed by Republican Rep. Steve Toth of The Woodlands, would allow lawsuits against websites that provide information about obtaining abortion pills. Elisa Wells, co-founder of Plan C, an information repository about telehealth abortion access, said they expect any challenge to their work to run afoul of free speech protections. Texas is a state that values free speech, but despite that, they're taking action to try and limit free speech with respect to abortion, she said. It's a bit hypocritical. Wells said they take seriously any legislation that might further restrict access to abortion in states like Texas. But she said even if all the domestic access routes were shut off by lawsuits and legislation, there are international providers prepared to keep providing pills to people who need them. Its ironic that a lot of these legal actions and court decisions and attempts to restrict access are what is shining a spotlight on the fact that abortion pills are available by mail, she said. Every time there's a decision like that, we just see the traffic to our site just exponentially increase. These anti-choice actions are the best advertisement. The federal allies After the overturn of Roe v. Wade, the Biden administration took steps to shore up abortion access and protect providers and patients in states where the procedure remained legal. The incoming presidential administration is expected to undo most of those protections and more vociferously go after entities that are attempting to help people skirt state abortion laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One open question is whether Trump will direct the Food and Drug Administration to revoke the approval of mifepristone, a common abortion-inducing drug that conservatives tried to get moved off the market. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected those efforts, but nothing about that ruling would stop a new FDA from reviewing that approval. Additionally, many are watching to see whether the Trump administration will issue new guidance on the Comstock Act, a 19th-century zombie law that hasnt been enforced in decades. The Comstock Act prohibits mailing anything that could be used to facilitate an illegal abortion, which legal experts say could wreak havoc across the medical supply chain. While trying to enforce the Comstock Act would spark significant legal challenges, it is a much more direct route to shutting down the infrastructure these shield providers have built, Ziegler said. This lawsuit [from Texas] isnt likely to change much of these shield providers' behavior, because theyve been expecting this, she said. But theres much more anxiety about the possibility of Comstock prosecutions, because those would be federal charges. Tim White has been working with an organization that works to overcome economic devastation long enough to be fully familiar with the word and when to use it. So as the region faces the real possibility that a merger between Japan-based Nippon Steel Corp. and United States Steel Corp. rejected by President Joe Biden could result in western Pennsylvanias economy-anchoring steelmaker shutting down here, White doesnt hesitate to say, it would be devastating. On Monday morning, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel filed two lawsuits in an attempt to revive the deal; however, for now, the proposed merger is stalled as a court action is awaited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click here to read the full story from our partners at the Pittsburgh Business Times. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) New leadership is officially sworn in at the Ohio Statehouse and priorities will be set over the next several weeks. I believe that if we work together, our best days are in front of us, Ohio Senate President Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) said. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman (R-Lima) said one of the first items that will likely be looked at is the state budget. We need to see how much money we have, because I think the governor said to me, By the way, Santa Claus is not coming back, Huffman said. We dont have $700 million in the capital budget. We dont have several billion and a variety of other things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some blocked legislation from the past two years that likely will draw party lines again may also come up. McColley said one of those things is taking another look at adult-use marijuana policy, while preserving access. Particularly as it concerns public use, driving while intoxicating, things of that nature, McColley said. An overhaul to higher education will be reintroduced after the former Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) blocked it these past two years. Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood) said she is hopeful it still wont get through, even with support from Republican leaders in each chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They couldnt get the votes last time with that very extreme as first introduced bill, she said. I dont think things have changed in terms of the opinions of the people who pushed back last time. While there may be some disagreement this General Assembly, leaders agreed that things will move more smoothly this year than the past General Assembly which was plagued with Republican infighting. I suspect we will see things getting through, for better or worse, more quickly, through both chambers, House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) said. Leaders said energy legislation is also top of mind for the first few months of this year to ensure Ohio does not run out of energy. Another focus will be property tax legislation but no public plans have been announced for any policy yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Committee assignments are still pending, and lawmakers will go on retreats with their caucuses to set agendas and strategies before coming back to Columbus and getting to work. Other Leadership in each chamber is as follows: Ohio House Majority: House Speaker Pro Tempore is Rep. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) Assistant House Speaker Pro Tempore is Rep. Phil Plummer (R-Dayton) House Majority Floor Leader is Marilyn John (R-Richland County) Assistant House Majority Floor Leader is Rep. Adam Bird (R-New Richmond) There are four Ohio House Majority Whips: Rep. Riordan McClain (R-Upper Sandusky), Rep. Nick Santucci (R- Howland Twp.), Rep. Steve Demetriou (R-Bainbridge Twp.), Rep. Josh Williams (R-Sylvania) Ohio House Minority: All Ohio House minority positions remain the same for the next GA as they are currently. House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) Assistant House Minority Leader Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) House Minority Whip Dani Isaacsohn (D-Cincinnati) Assistant House Minority Whip Michele Grim (D-Toledo) Ohio Senate Majority: Senate President is Sen. Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) Senate President Pro-Tempore is Sen. Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin) Senate Majority Floor Leader is Sen. Theresa Gavarone (R-Bowling Green) Senate Majority Whip is Sen. George Lang (R-West Chester) Ohio Senate Minority: Ohio Senate Minority leadership remains nearly the same for the next GA. Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood) Assistant Senate Minority Leader Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus) Senate Minority Whip Kent Smith (D-Euclid) Senate Assistant Minority Whip Beth Liston (D-Dublin) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DENVER (KDVR) Leadvilles new police chief is warning residents and businesses to be vigilant after counterfeit bills were recently intercepted at a gas station in town. According to Leadville Police Chief Dan Trelka, the gas station accepted 13 fake $20 bills during a single transaction that happened at some point between Dec. 27 and Jan. 1. Hundreds cited in Colorado during street racing crackdown in 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are investigating surveillance video from the six-day period, but have not yet developed any suspects, Trelka told FOX31. He also said that this is the first time hes seen a counterfeit $20 bill in about 20 years, and the bills themselves are pretty passible, but instead of having The United States of America written on the bill, it says The United States Money. Leadville Police Chief Dan Trelka shared this photo of a counterfeit bill that was accepted by a gas station in Leadville in late December 2024. (Courtesy the Leadville Police Department) There are other aspects of the bills to check for authenticity, Trelka said. For one, U.S. currency has a color-shifting numeral in the lower right corner, which should change from copper to green when tilted. He also noted that $20 bills have a security thread to the left of Andrew Jacksons portrait that reads USA TWENTY and includes a small flag. The thread can be seen from the front and back of the bill, Trelka said, and it glows green under ultraviolet light. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. currency also has watermarks. If you hold the bill up to a light, you should see a faint image of Andrew Jackson to the right of his portrait, which is visible from the front and back of the bill. Anyone with information about the counterfeit bills is asked to contact Trelka at 719-486-1365. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Family Resources invites the community to recognize human trafficking as a serious problem both locally and internationally. Human Trafficking Awareness Month, also observed through Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 11th, is a time of reflection and education on ways to address this issue. (famres.org) Human trafficking is a hidden crisis that affects individuals and families everywhere, said Kristen W., Director of Survivor Services at Family Resources. Through education, awareness, and community support, we can make a difference. We invite everyone to join us in wearing blue, lighting up our landmarks, and supporting local businesses that are helping survivors heal. An easy way to show support is by wearing blue on January 11th to show solidarity with survivors and those working to prevent trafficking. This is a nationwide effort to spotlight an issue that impacts many, including people in the Quad Cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are many other ways the community can get involved throughout January: Wear Blue on January 11th and share photos on social media using the hashtags #WearBlueDay and #HTAM2025. Landmarks Lit Blue: The Downtown Davenport Sky Bridge will be lit up in blue January 5th-11 th and the Norbert F. Beckey Bridge in Muscatine will also go blue. Local businesses are supporting the cause: All Star Energy Cafe: Order the blue Polar Plunge energy drink and a $1 for each drink proceeds will support Family Resources Braking Traffik Program. Cookie Crumbl: Purchase a blue frosted cookie from January 6-11 and 50% of the proceeds will benefit the Braking Traffik Program. Wellington Toffee: 10% of January sales will go to the Braking Traffik Program. Granite City: On January 11, all tips collected from the donation jar will go to support Braking Traffik. Apothecary: Will offer a special blue energy drink. On January 11, all tips collected from the donation jar will go to the Braking Traffik Program. Attend a workshop: Learn the ways adults and kids can stay safe through the Social Media Safety Workshops showing at local libraries: Eldridge Library January 2 5:30-7:30 p.m. Eastern Library January 9 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fairmont Library January 14 5:30-7:30 p.m. Bettendorf Library January 30 5:30-7:30 p.m. Family Resources is dedicated to providing comprehensive services to survivors of human trafficking. The Braking Traffik Program has vital resources, including housing, legal advocacy, counseling, and life skills support to help people rebuild their lives. They responded to 17,980 crisis line calls, provided shelter and housing for 716 people and served 109 survivors through the trafficking program. Click here for more on Family Resources and its programming. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Russia launched dozens of attack drones against cities and towns in southern and eastern Ukraine overnight killing three people and injuring at least 23, Ukrainian authorities said Tuesday. In the southern Kherson province, two people were killed and 17 injured, including a 50-year-old man who was killed and five women and four men who were hurt when a drone dropped explosives onto the bus they were riding in the the Korabelny district of Kherson city, according to Kherson Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin. One person was killed and one injured in an attack in Donetsk on the town of Siversk, 20 miles northeast of Bakhmut, regional governor Vadym Filashkin said in a social media post in which he also reported three civilians had been injured -- two in Rivne, just outside of Pokrovsk, and one in Rodynske four miles to the north. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukraine Air Force posted on Telegram that UAF warplanes, missile defense batteries and electronic warfare units downed 28 of 38 drones unleashed by Russian forces which also targeted the Poltava, Sumy, Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Mykolaiv and Kirovohrad regions. The air force said the drones, which included decoy UAVs, were launched from multiple directions including Millerovo in Rostov province, Kursk, and from across the Sea of Azov in Primorsko-Akhtarsk in southern Russia. Separately, Kharkiv Gov. Oleh Syniehubov wrote on Telegram that a 61-year-old woman was injured in Zolochiv when the town came under Russian artillery fire, damaging 30 private houses, shattering the windows of two apartment buildings, two farm buildings and wrecking cars. Zolochiv is 12 miles south of the border with Russia's Bolgorod province. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In neighboring Sumy province, the regional military administration said a civilian had been hurt in a rocket strike on Bilopillia, close to the border with Russia's Kursk region where a counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces, which seized part of the province in August, entered its third day Tuesday. Ukrainian officials said the manouver was aimed at checking a Russian offensive against Armed Forces of Ukraine occupying territory in the south-western part of Kursk. . GUWAHATI, India (AP) At least nine workers are trapped inside a flooded coal mine in Indias northeastern Assam state, officials said Tuesday, as authorities summoned the army to help in the rescue operation. The miners became trapped on Monday morning in the Umrangso area in Dima Hasao district, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) south of the state capital, Guwahati. The workers are feared trapped 300 feet below the ground after water gushed in from a nearby unused mine. We are mobilizing resources to rescue them, said Kaushik Rai, a local government minister who is monitoring the rescue efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Army soldiers and a national disaster management team at the site used ropes and cranes to assist the ongoing operation. Rescuers found three helmets, some slippers and a few other items, Rai said. "The divers have been able to dive into 35 or 40 feet of water inside the mine. The water level now is estimated at 100 feet, he said. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on the social media platform X that the mine appeared to be illegal and that police had arrested one person as they investigate the case. Workers at the site said over a dozen miners had been trapped inside the mine, which has minimum safety measures, and some managed to escape as water from a nearby unused mine began filling the mine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Indias east and northeast, workers extract coal in hazardous conditions in small rat hole mines that are narrow pits in the ground, usually meant for one person to go down, and are common in hilly areas. The coal is usually placed in boxes that are hoisted to the surface with pulleys. In some cases, miners carry coal in baskets up on wooden slats flanking the walls of the mines. Accidents in illegal mines are frequent and the livelihoods of those who do such mining depend on the illegal sale of coal. At least 15 miners were killed after getting trapped in one such mine in Meghalaya state in 2019. At least three Palestinian militants were killed in Israeli military operations in the West Bank on Tuesday. Two alleged gunmen were killed in a drone attack near Tubas after a "cell of armed terrorists" had previously fired on soldiers, the Israeli military said. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent ambulance service, an 18-year-old was among the dead. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said on X that a fighter jet had targeted "terrorists" in an area of Tamun in the Jordan Valley. It was unclear if this was a separate attack to that near close-by Tubas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a second incident, a 40-year-old man was killed outside his home near Nablus. The Palestinian Islamist militia Hamas confirmed he was a member of its organization. The Israeli army said the man was killed in a gun battle at close range. On Monday, three Israelis were killed in an attack on a bus in the northern West Bank. A suspected Palestinian attacker had fired at a bus from a vehicle in al-Funduq, west of Nablus, and was said to be on the run along with another individual, media reported. "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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, and the taking of hundreds of hostages, 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 Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. Major meeting on hostages held, progress unclear Israel's envoy for hostages met his North American and European counterparts on Tuesday at the start of two days of talks aimed at the release of dozens of people - and bodies - still being held by Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The envoys from the US, Canada, Britain, Germany and Austria came to Jerusalem especially for the meeting with Israeli Brigadier General Gal Hirsch, who is responsible for hostages and missing people, according to the office of Netanyahu. Talks were also planned with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and relatives of the hostages. However, it was unclear whether this indicated any imminent progress in the talks on a ceasefire in Gaza and the captives' return. There were some recent signs of hope for their release, but these repeatedly ended in disappointment for the families. According to Israeli sources, the efforts are aimed at returning 100 people. Among them are four Israelis - including two dead soldiers - who have been held by the Palestinian Islamist militia for a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas also wants to use the bodies of dead hostages to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. The remaining hostages seized on October 7, 2023, include 83 men, 13 women and two children under 5. Of these, 86 are Israelis, 10 are foreigners - including eight people from Thailand, one Nepalese and one Tanzanian. The Israeli hostages also include some people with German, US or Russian dual citizenship. At least three Palestinian militants were killed in Israeli military operations in the West Bank on Tuesday. Two alleged gunmen were killed in a drone attack near Tubas after a "cell of armed terrorists" had previously fired on soldiers, the Israeli military said. According to the Palestinian Red Crescent ambulance service, an 18-year-old was among the dead. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said on X that a fighter jet had targeted "terrorists" in an area of Tamun in the Jordan Valley. It was unclear if this was a separate attack to that near close-by Tubas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a second incident, a 40-year-old man was killed outside his home near Nablus. The Palestinian Islamist militia Hamas confirmed he was a member of its organization. The Israeli army said the man was killed in a gun battle at close range. On Monday, three Israelis were killed in an attack on a bus in the northern West Bank. A suspected Palestinian attacker had fired at a bus from a vehicle in al-Funduq, west of Nablus, and was on the run along with another individual. 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, and the taking of hundreds of hostages, triggering the Gaza war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some 800 West Bank Palestinians have since been killed in Israeli military operations, armed clashes and attacks by extremists, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. Major meeting on hostages held, progress unclear Israel's envoy for hostages met his North American and European counterparts on Tuesday at the start of two days of talks aimed at the release of dozens of people - and bodies - still being held by Hamas in Gaza. The envoys from the US, Canada, Britain, Germany and Austria came to Jerusalem especially for the meeting with Israeli Brigadier General Gal Hirsch, who is responsible for hostages and missing people, according to the office of Netanyahu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talks were also held with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and are planned with relatives of the hostages, as separate ceasefire negotiations in Qatar between the Israelis and Hamas rumble on. Herzog said in a statement: "There is a major scar on our nation. There is a major scar on the face of the earth: the issue of the hostages. "We want them back home as soon as possible. It's a huge task. We are supporting and hoping and praying and also calling on all parties to the negotiations in Qatar to move forward as much as possible and end this huge tragedy." It was unclear if the meeting indicated any imminent progress in the talks on a ceasefire in Gaza and the captives' return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were some recent signs of hope out of the talks in Qatar. But in the past these have repeatedly ended in disappointment for the families. According to Israeli officials, the efforts are aimed at returning 100 people. Among them are four Israelis - including two dead soldiers - who have been held by the Palestinian Islamist militia for a decade. Hamas wants to use the hostages to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. The remaining hostages seized on October 7, 2023, include 83 men, 13 women and two children under 5. Of these, 86 are Israelis, 10 are foreigners - including eight people from Thailand, one Nepalese and one Tanzanian. The Israeli hostages also include some people with German, US or Russian dual citizenship. At least two Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military operations in the West Bank, medics said on Tuesday. An 18-year-old was killed in a drone attack south of Tubas, the Red Crescent ambulance service reported. The Israeli army in turn said that "a cell of armed terrorists" was hit by a drone at the location. In a second incident, a 40-year-old man was killed outside his home near Nablus, according to Palestinian reports. He was described as a wanted member of the armed wing of the Palestinian Islamist militia Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli army spokesman said the report was being investigated. On Monday, three Israelis were killed in an attack on a bus in the northern West Bank. 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. BEIRUT (AP) Lebanons cabinet voted Tuesday to deport to the United Arab Emirates an Egyptian activist and poet detained by Lebanese security forces after crossing the porous border from Syria last month. Abdulrahman al-Qaradawi, who is an outspoken critic of Egypts government who had been residing in Turkey, reportedly visited Syria to join celebrations after the downfall of President Bashar Assad in a lightning insurgent offensive headed by the Islamist group Hayat Tahriri al-Sham. His late father, Youssef al-Qaradawi, was a senior and controversial Egyptian cleric revered by the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood. He had lived in exile in Qatar for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abdulrahman al-Qaradawi was wanted in Egypt on charges of disseminating false news and inciting violence, for which he was convicted and sentenced in absentia to five years in prison. Amnesty International said in a statement Tuesday that while visiting Damascus in December, al-Qaradawi had filmed himself walking around the Umayyad Mosque and criticizing the authorities of the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. According to his family and lawyers, this short clip widely shared on social media triggered his arrest, the international human rights group said. Following his arrest, al-Qaradawi was interrogated by Lebanese security forces in relation to the 2017 verdict against him in Egypt as well as the UAE extradition request, Amnesty said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sara Hashash, the human rights groups deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa, said that if extradited to Egypt al-Qaradawi would face a risk of enforced disappearance, torture and other ill-treatment, and he would also be at risk of arbitrary detention and other human rights violations if he is returned to the UAE. Forcibly extraditing him to a country where he is likely to face persecution would be a flagrant breach of the principle of non-refoulement under international law, she said. The decision is likely to anger Turkey and Qatar, the two main backers of the Muslim Brotherhood, both of which have seen their regional hand strengthened by the fall of Assad in Syria. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) District 5 Supervisor Leticia Perez took her seat atop the Kern County Board of Supervisors on Monday selected to be its chairwoman. Many of Perezs supporters celebrated her new role, like Bakersfield Vice Mayor Manpreet Kaur and social justice legend Dolores Huerta. Bakersfield attorney arraigned on felony charges in DUI checkpoint crash Its so important that we have a feminists voice on the board, Im not saying that you gentleman discriminate but we also know that when we have that one feminist voice it could make a very big difference, said Dolores Huerta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a close election, which only separated Perez from her opponent Kimberly Salas by 133 votes, and is now in her 12th year as a county supervisor and the second time she has been Chairwoman. Well it has been the most excruciating 60 days of my life, I can assure you that. I feel a lot of responsibility to do it right, I feel a lot of responsibility to let go of the past, to lead you know, with grace and with inclusivity, said Perez. Perez said shes taking what she learned from this election season into how she governs District 5, Our unemployment rate is our biggest priority, and it has to be and it must remain because were double the states on unemployment rate. The new casino that will grand open this summer while Im chair provides an opportunity and a pipeline for jobs that we have never seen before. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As chairwoman, Perez still governs her district as a supervisor does but gets added responsibilities like running the board meetings, appointing committee members, and signing contracts the board approves. Just hours after the meeting, Perez was in Shafter and met with Governor Gavin Newsom to give an update on Californias High Speed Rail project. Perezs first meeting as chairman will be Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 9 a.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 KGET 17. To the editor: Yes, a cancer warning label on alcohol would be a good idea. ("Why the U.S. surgeon general wants cancer warning labels on alcoholic drinks," Jan. 3) But if we want to seriously address all of the damage caused by drinking, it would be an even better idea to stop allowing the advertising of alcohol. There will be tremendous opposition to this idea, but beyond the possible cancer-causing effects, consider also the social and legal problems attributed to alcohol consumption. We tried outlawing alcohol entirely, and that didn't work. But look at what happened with smoking when tobacco advertising was significantly curtailed: Deaths from lung cancer dropped dramatically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People will continue to drink alcohol, but why allow persuasive advertising to drive high levels of consumption and all of the resulting problems such as drunk driving? Peter Marquard, Northridge .. To the editor: As an advocate for protective public health policy, I applaud U.S. Surgeon Gen. Dr. Vivek Murthys succinct advisory on cancer risk. I want to emphasize the importance of overhauling the federal alcohol warning label. It was established a generation ago and does not adhere to any of the accepted gold standards of effective health communication, including: Clear and legible typeface. Colors and graphical elements. Revolving advisories to prevent "warning fatigue." Moreover, the current statute prohibits states from requiring warning labels more strident, in content or form, than the federal one. This overrides the will of California voters as expressed in Proposition 65, and is why we see cancer warning stickers applied to flip-flops and flat-pack furniture, but never liquor bottles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My group Alcohol Justice is calling on California's congressional delegation to spearhead legislation revising the federal warning label and removing preemption of stricter state requirements. This would not only provide life-saving information to our residents, but also advance the evidence-based public health practices on which California has long been a leader. Carson Benowitz-Fredericks, San Rafael The writer is research director for Alcohol Justice. .. To the editor: While folding up my card table recently, I noticed a sticker on the underside stating that the table contained materials known to the government to cause cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I shall heretofore ignore all notices about substances that may cause cancer. Stop crying wolf. John Reeve, West Hills This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. To the editor: In the aftermath of an American driving a truck into a New Year's crowd in New Orleans and killing 14 revelers, our once and future president is at it again, attempting to convince his audience that the American was an immigrant. ("After New Orleans attack by U.S. citizen, Trump rails against immigrants, 'open borders,'" Jan. 3) No, President-elect Donald Trump. The man behind the wheel was as American as you are. It's shaping up to be a long four years, but at least it will be Trump's last four years as president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joan Walston, Santa Monica .. To the editor: The New Year's attack in New Orleans, in which a truck was driven into a crowd, killing 14 and injuring many others, appears to have been motivated by support for Islamic State. This violent act of terror is in no way representative of Islam's true teachings. The holy Quran (the most sacred book of Muslims) clearly states, "Whosoever kills a person ... it shall be as if he had killed all mankind." Islam condemns all forms of violence and upholds the sanctity of life. This tragedy shows the importance of achieving peace and harmony in our communities. Only through understanding, unity and respect for people can we hope to create a future free from violence and division. Sophia Mahmood, Miami This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. NEW YORK (AP) A national rights group said Tuesday that more U.S. companies are providing strong benefits and protections to LGBTQ+ employees despite an ongoing effort by conservative activists to get high-profile brands to stop participating in the organization's annual workplace report card. The education arm of the Human Rights Campaign released its latest Corporate Equality Index the day after McDonald's became the latest big company to say it would no longer provide information for the annual evaluation of policies affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees. Last year, Walmart, Ford, Harley-Davidson and other consumer brands that came under pressure said they would end their voluntary participation in the grading system. The HRC rated them anyway, giving Harley-Davidson a score of 10 out of 100 and Ford a 75, for example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The index has emerged as a top target of conservative activists as part of a broader campaign to pressure businesses into abandoning diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives that were designed to reduce discrimination against women, members of racial and ethnic minority groups, and LGBTQ+ people. A 2023 Supreme Court decision that declared race-based affirmative action programs in college admissions unconstitutional emboldened critics of DEI programs to target universities, government agencies and corporations on social media, in the courts and in state legislatures. Some companies, including McDonald's, cited the high court precedent as their reason for curtailing diversity policies. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation said the 2025 equality index nonetheless included 72 employers that were first-time participants, and that 765 of the 1,449 companies graded received a perfect score, 28% more than last year. At times, progress meets backlash, but companies continue to dedicate the time and resources to reinforcing workplace inclusion, HRC President Kelley Robinson said in a statement. As a result, they are more competitive and more creative while attracting and retaining top talent and widening their consumer base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of companies given official ratings included ones that have said they would pull out of the process. Some completed the organization's survey months before their decisions. The HRC said it would continue to monitor companies that drop out and assign them scores. McDonald's was among the companies earning the top score of 100. Walmart and Lowe's both received 90 points. The scores are based on points companies get for a range of workplace metrics, such as having anti-discrimination policies that encompass sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and offering health benefits that cover same-sex spouses and the needs of transgender individuals. This is the second index that assigned points for having gender transition guidelines that managers, transitioning employees and their colleagues can consult. More than 1,000 of the companies graded for 2025 reported adopting such guidelines, a 21% increase, the HRC said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obviously, there are plenty of examples of organizations that have made some kind of announcement around retreating from some aspects of how they were doing DEI, including things like participation in this survey," said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at NYU School of Law. "But the vast majority of companies that were doing DEI before are still doing it. The only difference is that theyre changing some programs mostly for legal risk mitigation purposes and or doing it more quietly so that they dont attract as much attention and scrutiny. The Corporate Equality Index debuted in 2002 and primarily focused on ensuring that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer employees didn't face discrimination in hiring and on the job. Over the years, the criteria to gain a perfect score grew stricter, and experts say the Index helped improve workplace benefits for LGBTQ+ people. A legal settlement with the Pentagon could make benefits available to tens of thousands of gay and lesbian military veterans dismissed from service because of their sexual orientation. The militarys longstanding Dont Ask, Dont Tell (DADT) policy, which was repealed in 2010, prohibited LGBTQ service members from disclosing their sexual orientation, and prevented the military from asking them about their sexuality. If a service members sexual orientation became known, they would be discharged, sometimes dishonorably. A 2024 class action lawsuit against the Department of Defense challenged decisions to dishonorably discharge LGBTQ members of the military, therefore denying them access to certain veterans benefits. But with a new proposed settlement to that suit, first reported by CBS News, the path to obtaining an honorable discharge and access those benefits could be made easier for 35,000 veterans included in the suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plaintiffs released a statement Monday stating they have reached a historic settlement agreement with the DOD, although the settlement has not yet been affirmed by a federal court. Per the settlement, veterans whose discharge paperwork mentions their sexual orientation as a reason for their leaving the military can obtain new paperwork that does not mention their sexual orientation. Those who received a dishonorable discharge will be able to request an immediate review. In the lawsuit, plaintiffs argued that the military discriminated against them and denied their constitutional rights. Many were unable to access benefits offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs such as tuition assistance, health care access, VA loans, and certain jobs. 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, Sherrill Farrell, a U.S. Navy veteran and plaintiff told CBS News. Today, I am once again proud to have served my country by standing up for veterans like myself, and ensuring our honor is recognized. Since the repeal of DADT, the federal government has aimed to repair injustices caused by the policy. In October, the DOD announced it completed a proactive review of service members administratively separated from the services for their sexual orientation during the Dont Ask, Dont Tell era. After DADT was repealed, many veterans discharged under the policy applied for relief, and 85 percent of applicants received some form of it, according to the DOD. In June, President Joe Biden pardoned thousands of veterans who between 1950 and 2013 were convicted of violating the militarys ban on same-sex relationships. But thousands of LGBTQ veterans still lacked access to those benefits or did not have honorable discharges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Approximately 100,000 members of the U.S. military were kicked out of the services due to DADT and other anti-LGBTQ policies from World War II through 2011. 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. Newly donated LGBTQ+ books are displayed in the library at Nystrom Elementary School in Richmond, Calif. California is one of six states that have enacted laws to fight against book bans. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Karen Grant and fellow school librarians throughout New Jersey have heard an increasingly loud chorus of parents and conservative activists demanding that certain books often about race, gender and sexuality be removed from the shelves. In the past year, Grant and her colleagues in the Ewing Public Schools just north of Trenton updated a 3-decade-old policy on reviewing parents challenges to books they see as pornographic or inappropriate. Grants team feared that without a new policy, the district would immediately bend to someone who wanted certain books banned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around the same time, state lawmakers in Trenton were readying legislation to set a book challenge policy for the entire state, preventing book bans based solely on the subject of a book or the authors background or views, while also protecting public and school librarians from legal or civil liabilities from people upset by the reading materials they offer. When Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed that measure into law last month, Grant breathed a little easier. We just hear so many stories of our librarians feeling threatened and targeted, said Grant, who works at Parkway Elementary School and serves as president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians. This has been a wrong, an injustice that needs to be made right. Amid a national rise in book bans in school libraries and new laws in some red states that threaten criminal penalties against librarians, a growing number of blue states are taking the opposite approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected. Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America New Jersey joined at least five other states California, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington that have passed legislation within the past two years that aims to preserve access to reading materials that deal with racial and sexual themes, including those about the LGBTQ+ community. Conservative groups have led the effort to ban materials to shield children from what they deem as harmful content. In the 2023-24 school year, there were 10,000 instances of book bans across the U.S. nearly three times as many as the year before, according to a recent report by PEN America, a nonprofit that advocates for literary freedom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Certain books are harmful to children just like drugs, alcohol, Rated R movies and tattoos are harmful to them, Kit Hart, chair of the Carroll County, Maryland, chapter of Moms for Liberty, a national organization leading the book banning effort, wrote in an email. But some states are now safeguarding librarians and the books they offer. State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected, said Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America, which has been tracking book bans since 2021. The drive to ban certain books is not waning, however. While a handful of states fight censorship in school libraries, some communities within those states are attempting to retake local control and continuing to remove materials that conservative local officials regard as lurid and harmful to children. Lives are in the balance The New Jersey measure not only sets minimum standards for localities when they adopt a policy on how books are curated or can be challenged but also prevents school districts from removing material based on the origin, background, or views of the library material or those contributing to its creation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law also gives librarians immunity from civil and criminal liability for good faith actions. New Jersey state Sen. Andrew Zwicker, a Democrat who introduced the legislation, said until recently he thought that book bans were a disturbing trend, but one limited to other states. But early last year, he went to a brunch event and met a school librarian who told him she faced a torrent of verbal and online abuse for refusing to remove a handful of books with LGBTQ+ themes from her librarys shelves. Thats when I realized that I was so horribly mistaken, that these attacks on librarians and on the freedom to read were happening everywhere, Zwicker told Stateline. I went up to her and asked, What can I do? He said hes already heard from lawmakers in Rhode Island who are considering introducing a similar measure this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community can read a memoir like Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe and feel seen for the first time in their lives, he said. I do not think its an overstatement to say that lives are in the balance here, that these books are that important to people, and that librarians are trusted gatekeepers to ensure that whats on the shelf of a library has been curated and is appropriate, Zwicker said. These new state laws, several of which are titled the Freedom to Read Act, passed almost entirely along party lines, with unanimous Democratic support. In New Jersey, Republican state Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who has worked in schools for the past 18 years, including as an English teacher, vehemently opposed the measure. She did not respond to an interview request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt puritanical parents saying, Oh, I dont want my child to learn how babies are made, she said during a September committee hearing. Thats ridiculous, and we all know it. She added, What I do want is for us to be able to have an honest conversation about some of what is in these texts that is extraordinarily inappropriate for that grade level. The library at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in South Salt Lake, Utah, is pictured in March 2024. (Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Enforcement and penalties Legislation differs by state, including in enforcement and how to penalize noncompliant localities. In Illinois, for example, school districts risk losing thousands of dollars in state grant funding if they violate the states new law discouraging book bans. But as the Chicago Tribune reported last month, that financial penalty was not enough to persuade many school districts throughout the state to comply, with administrators saying they are concerned about giving up local control on school decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several school districts in other states have similarly rebelled. North of Minneapolis, St. Francis Area Schools board last month decided it would consult with conservative group BookLooks to determine which books it will buy for its school libraries. BookLooks uses a 0-through-5 rating system that flags books for violent and sexual content. Under its rating system, books that have long had a place in school libraries such as the Holocaust memoir Night by Elie Wiesel or I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou would require parental consent to read. Asked about the school district potentially violating state law, school board member Amy Kelly, who led the drive to use BookLooks, declined to be interviewed. Karsten Anderson, superintendent of St. Francis Area Schools, also declined an interview request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland, Carroll County schools led the state in banning books in recent years, removing in the 2023-2024 school year at least 59 titles that were sexually explicit, according to a tally by PEN America. Schools should not allow children to see kink and porn, wrote Hart, of Moms for Liberty. She got involved in the effort more than three years ago, saying she wanted to protect her five children and parents rights to make educational decisions. She pointed to one book to make her point: Lets Talk About It: The Teens Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human, a nonfiction book in graphic novel form by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan that seeks to educate teenagers about anatomy and consensual and safe sex. The book explores other issues of gender and sexuality, as well. Hart likened the books illustrations showing different ways of having sex to erotica. Parents who provide their children with alcohol or drugs, or to give them a tattoo would rightly be charged with crimes, she wrote Stateline in an email. Schools that provide children with sexually explicit content are negligent at best. The future of book bans Around 8,000 of the more than 10,000 instances of banned books during the 2023-24 school year were in Florida and Iowa schools, according to PEN America. Lawmakers in those states enacted legislation in 2023 that created processes for school districts to remove books that have sexual content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iowa now requires that reading materials offered in schools be age-appropriate, while the Florida law ensures that books challenged for depicting or describing sexual conduct be removed from shelves while the challenge is processed by the district. Some of those banned books included classics, such as Roots by Alex Haley and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. Over the past year, lawmakers in Idaho, Tennessee and Utah passed measures that ban certain reading materials that deal with sex or are otherwise deemed inappropriate, according to a December report from EveryLibrary, an Illinois-based organization that advocates against book bans. Arizona Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed similar legislation in June. Laws that allow for book bans have been the subject of several lawsuits in recent years, as plaintiffs argue those measures violate constitutional protections of free expression. Late last month, a federal judge struck down parts of a 2023 Arkansas law that threatened prison time for librarians who distribute harmful material to minors. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, a Republican, announced the state would appeal the decision. EveryLibrary is tracking 26 bills in five states that lawmakers will consider this year that would target books with sexual and racial themes. The organized effort to remove books because of LGBTQ+ or racial themes will continue, said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of the American Library Associations Office for Intellectual Freedom. The association, which tracks book bans as part of its mission to support libraries and information science, found that most of the top banned books around the country had LGBTQ+ protagonists. Librarians have always been all about providing individuals with access to the information they need, whether its for education, for enrichment, for understanding, she said in an interview. Censorship is diametrically opposed to that mission. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Newly donated LGBTQ+ books are displayed in the library at Nystrom Elementary School in Richmond, Calif. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Karen Grant and fellow school librarians throughout New Jersey have heard an increasingly loud chorus of parents and conservative activists demanding that certain books often about race, gender and sexuality be removed from the shelves. In the past year, Grant and her colleagues in the Ewing Public Schools just north of Trenton updated a 3-decade-old policy on reviewing parents challenges to books they see as pornographic or inappropriate. Grants team feared that without a new policy, the district would immediately bend to someone who wanted certain books banned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around the same time, state lawmakers in Trenton were readying legislation to set a book challenge policy for the entire state, preventing book bans based solely on the subject of a book or the authors background or views, while also protecting public and school librarians from legal or civil liabilities from people upset by the reading materials they offer. When Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed that measure into law last month, Grant breathed a little easier. We just hear so many stories of our librarians feeling threatened and targeted, said Grant, who works at Parkway Elementary School and serves as president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians. This has been a wrong, an injustice that needs to be made right. Amid a national rise in book bans in school libraries and new laws in some red states that threaten criminal penalties against librarians, a growing number of blue states are taking the opposite approach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected. Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America New Jersey joined at least five other states California, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington that have passed legislation within the past two years that aims to preserve access to reading materials that deal with racial and sexual themes, including those about the LGBTQ+ community. Conservative groups have led the effort to ban materials to shield children from what they deem as harmful content. In the 2023-24 school year, there were 10,000 instances of book bans across the U.S. nearly three times as many as the year before, according to a recent report by PEN America, a nonprofit that advocates for literary freedom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Certain books are harmful to children just like drugs, alcohol, Rated R movies and tattoos are harmful to them, Kit Hart, chair of the Carroll County, Maryland, chapter of Moms for Liberty, a national organization leading the book banning effort, wrote in an email. But some states are now safeguarding librarians and the books they offer. State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected, said Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America, which has been tracking book bans since 2021. The drive to ban certain books is not waning, however. While a handful of states fight censorship in school libraries, some communities within those states are attempting to retake local control and continuing to remove materials that conservative local officials regard as lurid and harmful to children. Lives are in the balance The New Jersey measure not only sets minimum standards for localities when they adopt a policy on how books are curated or can be challenged but also prevents school districts from removing material based on the origin, background, or views of the library material or those contributing to its creation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law also gives librarians immunity from civil and criminal liability for good faith actions. New Jersey state Sen. Andrew Zwicker, a Democrat who introduced the legislation, said until recently he thought that book bans were a disturbing trend, but one limited to other states. But early last year, he went to a brunch event and met a school librarian who told him she faced a torrent of verbal and online abuse for refusing to remove a handful of books with LGBTQ+ themes from her librarys shelves. Thats when I realized that I was so horribly mistaken, that these attacks on librarians and on the freedom to read were happening everywhere, Zwicker told Stateline. I went up to her and asked, What can I do? He said hes already heard from lawmakers in Rhode Island who are considering introducing a similar measure this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community can read a memoir like Gender Queer by Maia Kobabe and feel seen for the first time in their lives, he said. I do not think its an overstatement to say that lives are in the balance here, that these books are that important to people, and that librarians are trusted gatekeepers to ensure that whats on the shelf of a library has been curated and is appropriate, Zwicker said. These new state laws, several of which are titled the Freedom to Read Act, passed almost entirely along party lines, with unanimous Democratic support. In New Jersey, Republican state Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who has worked in schools for the past 18 years, including as an English teacher, vehemently opposed the measure. She did not respond to an interview request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt puritanical parents saying, Oh, I dont want my child to learn how babies are made, she said during a September committee hearing. Thats ridiculous, and we all know it. She added, What I do want is for us to be able to have an honest conversation about some of what is in these texts that is extraordinarily inappropriate for that grade level. Enforcement and penalties Legislation differs by state, including in enforcement and how to penalize noncompliant localities. In Illinois, for example, school districts risk losing thousands of dollars in state grant funding if they violate the states new law discouraging book bans. But as the Chicago Tribune reported last month, that financial penalty was not enough to persuade many school districts throughout the state to comply, with administrators saying they are concerned about giving up local control on school decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several school districts in other states have similarly rebelled. North of Minneapolis, St. Francis Area Schools board last month decided it would consult with conservative group BookLooks to determine which books it will buy for its school libraries. BookLooks uses a 0-through-5 rating system that flags books for violent and sexual content. Under its rating system, books that have long had a place in school libraries such as the Holocaust memoir Night by Elie Wiesel or I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou would require parental consent to read. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about the school district potentially violating state law, school board member Amy Kelly, who led the drive to use BookLooks, declined to be interviewed. Karsten Anderson, superintendent of St. Francis Area Schools, also declined an interview request. In Maryland, Carroll County schools led the state in banning books in recent years, removing in the 2023-2024 school year at least 59 titles that were sexually explicit, according to a tally by PEN America. Schools should not allow children to see kink and porn, wrote Hart, of Moms for Liberty. She got involved in the effort more than three years ago, saying she wanted to protect her five children and parents rights to make educational decisions. She pointed to one book to make her point: Lets Talk About It: The Teens Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human, a nonfiction book in graphic novel form by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan that seeks to educate teenagers about anatomy and consensual and safe sex. The book explores other issues of gender and sexuality, as well. Hart likened the books illustrations showing different ways of having sex to erotica. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents who provide their children with alcohol or drugs, or to give them a tattoo would rightly be charged with crimes, she wrote Stateline in an email. Schools that provide children with sexually explicit content are negligent at best. The future of book bans Around 8,000 of the more than 10,000 instances of banned books during the 2023-24 school year were in Florida and Iowa schools, according to PEN America. Lawmakers in those states enacted legislation in 2023 that created processes for school districts to remove books that have sexual content. Iowa now requires that reading materials offered in schools be age-appropriate, while the Florida law ensures that books challenged for depicting or describing sexual conduct be removed from shelves while the challenge is processed by the district. Some of those banned books included classics, such as Roots by Alex Haley and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith. Over the past year, lawmakers in Idaho, Tennessee and Utah passed measures that ban certain reading materials that deal with sex or are otherwise deemed inappropriate, according to a December report from EveryLibrary, an Illinois-based organization that advocates against book bans. Arizona Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed similar legislation in June. Laws that allow for book bans have been the subject of several lawsuits in recent years, as plaintiffs argue those measures violate constitutional protections of free expression. Late last month, a federal judge struck down parts of a 2023 Arkansas law that threatened prison time for librarians who distribute harmful material to minors. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, a Republican, announced the state would appeal the decision. EveryLibrary is tracking 26 bills in five states that lawmakers will consider this year that would target books with sexual and racial themes. The organized effort to remove books because of LGBTQ+ or racial themes will continue, said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of the American Library Associations Office for Intellectual Freedom. The association, which tracks book bans as part of its mission to support libraries and information science, found that most of the top banned books around the country had LGBTQ+ protagonists. Librarians have always been all about providing individuals with access to the information they need, whether its for education, for enrichment, for understanding, she said in an interview. Censorship is diametrically opposed to that mission. 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. Jan. 7Karen Grant and fellow school librarians throughout New Jersey have heard an increasingly loud chorus of parents and conservative activists demanding that certain books often about race, gender and sexuality be removed from the shelves. In the past year, Grant and her colleagues in the Ewing Public Schools just north of Trenton updated a 3-decade-old policy on reviewing parents' challenges to books they see as pornographic or inappropriate. Grant's team feared that without a new policy, the district would immediately bend to someone who wanted certain books banned. Around the same time, state lawmakers in Trenton were readying legislation to set a book challenge policy for the entire state, preventing book bans based solely on the subject of a book or the author's background or views, while also protecting public and school librarians from legal or civil liabilities from people upset by the reading materials they offer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed that measure into law last month, Grant breathed a little easier. "We just hear so many stories of our librarians feeling threatened and targeted," said Grant, who works at Parkway Elementary School and serves as president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians. "This has been a wrong, an injustice that needs to be made right." Amid a national rise in book bans in school libraries and new laws in some red states that threaten criminal penalties against librarians, a growing number of blue states are taking the opposite approach. State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected. Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey joined at least five other states California, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington that have passed legislation within the past two years that aims to preserve access to reading materials that deal with racial and sexual themes, including those about the LGBTQ+ community. Conservative groups have led the effort to ban materials to shield children from what they deem as harmful content. In the 2023-24 school year, there were 10,000 instances of book bans across the U.S. nearly three times as many as the year before, according to a recent report by PEN America, a nonprofit that advocates for literary freedom. "Certain books are harmful to children just like drugs, alcohol, Rated R movies and tattoos are harmful to them," Kit Hart, chair of the Carroll County, Maryland, chapter of Moms for Liberty, a national organization leading the book banning effort, wrote in an email. But some states are now safeguarding librarians and the books they offer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "State leaders are demonstrating that censorship has no place in their state and that the freedom to read is a principle that is supported and protected," said Kasey Meehan, director of the Freedom to Read program at PEN America, which has been tracking book bans since 2021. The drive to ban certain books is not waning, however. While a handful of states fight censorship in school libraries, some communities within those states are attempting to retake local control and continuing to remove materials that conservative local officials regard as lurid and harmful to children. 'Lives are in the balance' The New Jersey measure not only sets minimum standards for localities when they adopt a policy on how books are curated or can be challenged but also prevents school districts from removing material based on "the origin, background, or views of the library material or those contributing to its creation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law also gives librarians immunity from civil and criminal liability for "good faith actions." New Jersey state Sen. Andrew Zwicker, a Democrat who introduced the legislation, said until recently he thought that book bans were a disturbing trend, but one limited to other states. But early last year, he went to a brunch event and met a school librarian who told him she faced a torrent of verbal and online abuse for refusing to remove a handful of books with LGBTQ+ themes from her library's shelves. "That's when I realized that I was so horribly mistaken, that these attacks on librarians and on the freedom to read were happening everywhere," Zwicker told Stateline. "I went up to her and asked, 'What can I do?'" He said he's already heard from lawmakers in Rhode Island who are considering introducing a similar measure this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community can read a memoir like "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe and feel seen for the first time in their lives, he said. "I do not think it's an overstatement to say that lives are in the balance here, that these books are that important to people, and that librarians are trusted gatekeepers to ensure that what's on the shelf of a library has been curated and is appropriate," Zwicker said. These new state laws, several of which are titled the "Freedom to Read Act," passed almost entirely along party lines, with unanimous Democratic support. In New Jersey, Republican state Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, who has worked in schools for the past 18 years, including as an English teacher, vehemently opposed the measure. She did not respond to an interview request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This isn't puritanical parents saying, 'Oh, I don't want my child to learn how babies are made,'" she said during a September committee hearing. "That's ridiculous, and we all know it." She added, "What I do want is for us to be able to have an honest conversation about some of what is in these texts that is extraordinarily inappropriate for that grade level." A school library in Utah. The library at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in South Salt Lake, Utah, is pictured in March 2024. (Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) Enforcement and penalties Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legislation differs by state, including in enforcement and how to penalize noncompliant localities. In Illinois, for example, school districts risk losing thousands of dollars in state grant funding if they violate the state's new law discouraging book bans. But as the Chicago Tribune reported last month, that financial penalty was not enough to persuade many school districts throughout the state to comply, with administrators saying they are concerned about giving up local control on school decisions. Several school districts in other states have similarly rebelled. North of Minneapolis, St. Francis Area Schools' board last month decided it would consult with conservative group BookLooks to determine which books it will buy for its school libraries. BookLooks uses a 0-through-5 rating system that flags books for violent and sexual content. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under its rating system, books that have long had a place in school libraries such as the Holocaust memoir "Night" by Elie Wiesel or "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou would require parental consent to read. Asked about the school district potentially violating state law, school board member Amy Kelly, who led the drive to use BookLooks, declined to be interviewed. Karsten Anderson, superintendent of St. Francis Area Schools, also declined an interview request. In Maryland, Carroll County schools led the state in banning books in recent years, removing in the 2023-2024 school year at least 59 titles that were "sexually explicit," according to a tally by PEN America. Schools should not allow children to see "kink and porn," wrote Hart, of Moms for Liberty. She got involved in the effort more than three years ago, saying she wanted to protect her five children and parents' rights to make educational decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She pointed to one book to make her point: "Let's Talk About It: The Teen's Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Being a Human," a nonfiction book in graphic novel form by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan that seeks to educate teenagers about anatomy and consensual and safe sex. The book explores other issues of gender and sexuality, as well. Hart likened the book's illustrations showing different ways of having sex to "erotica." "Parents who provide their children with alcohol or drugs, or to give them a tattoo would rightly be charged with crimes," she wrote Stateline in an email. "Schools that provide children with sexually explicit content are negligent at best." The future of book bans Around 8,000 of the more than 10,000 instances of banned books during the 2023-24 school year were in Florida and Iowa schools, according to PEN America. Lawmakers in those states enacted legislation in 2023 that created processes for school districts to remove books that have sexual content. Iowa now requires that reading materials offered in schools be "age-appropriate," while the Florida law ensures that books challenged for depicting or describing "sexual conduct" be removed from shelves while the challenge is processed by the district. Some of those banned books included classics, such as "Roots" by Alex Haley and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith. Over the past year, lawmakers in Idaho, Tennessee and Utah passed measures that ban certain reading materials that deal with sex or are otherwise deemed inappropriate, according to a December report from EveryLibrary, an Illinois-based organization that advocates against book bans. Arizona Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed similar legislation in June. Laws that allow for book bans have been the subject of several lawsuits in recent years, as plaintiffs argue those measures violate constitutional protections of free expression. Late last month, a federal judge struck down parts of a 2023 Arkansas law that threatened prison time for librarians who distribute "harmful" material to minors. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, a Republican, announced the state would appeal the decision. EveryLibrary is tracking 26 bills in five states that lawmakers will consider this year that would target books with sexual and racial themes. The organized effort to remove books because of LGBTQ+ or racial themes will continue, said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of the American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom. The association, which tracks book bans as part of its mission to support libraries and information science, found that most of the top banned books around the country had LGBTQ+ protagonists. "Librarians have always been all about providing individuals with access to the information they need, whether it's for education, for enrichment, for understanding," she said in an interview. "Censorship is diametrically opposed to that mission." YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE. The Culture Secretary is facing calls from senior politicians across party lines to intervene to unlock the newspaper auction from hell and secure new ownership for The Telegraph. Lisa Nandy is overseeing a period of extended financial uncertainty and strategic paralysis for the newspaper after her Conservative predecessor stopped a bid for control by RedBird IMI, an investment fund backed by Abu Dhabi. An auction in which RedBird IMI sought to recover its outlay of more than 500m appears to have hit an impasse after other investors were unable to justify that price. It has left The Telegraph in its 20th month in limbo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stuart Andrew, the Conservative shadow culture secretary, said: It was right the Tory government at the time scrutinised the takeover move for The Telegraph given newspaper freedom is an important point of principle. Now is the time to make sure there is certainty for the publication. I would ask the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to do all it can to get on with the sale so the newspaper and all those who work for it have some reassurance for the future. Shadow culture secretary Stuart Andrew called on his opposite number to provide certainty for the publication - Christopher Furlong/Getty Images Sir Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader, said: Its not right that an institution of British journalism has been left in limbo during a takeover process. The Government must now urgently get a move on and resolve this uncertainty anything less would be simply unacceptable, and bad for British democracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RedBird IMIs sale, which is being run by investment bankers including the former chancellor George Osborne, has been dubbed the newspaper auction from hell by the Columbia Journalism Review. James Frith, Labour MP and member of the Commons Culture Committee, said: The drawn-out sale process of The Daily Telegraph has left a historic and respected publication in an unfortunate state of limbo for too long. Theres a shared view across the board that this needs to be concluded as swiftly as possible. However, speed alone mustnt come at the expense of safeguarding the sustainability and plurality of our print media, which remains vital for maintaining public trust in journalism and countering the rise of online disinformation. Its about ensuring a healthy, diverse media landscape that serves democracy, fosters trust, and upholds the sanctity of good, well-sourced, fact based, independent journalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nigel Farage, the Reform leader, said: It is very important that the Culture Department does not put up artificial barriers to the sale of one of our great historic media outlets. Sir John Redwood, the former Tory cabinet minister, said: The sooner the future financing and independence of The Telegraph is assured the better for us all. The Telegraph makes a huge contribution to independent comment and news in this country. We must defend the plurality and independence of great titles. The Government has a supervisory role and applies competition policy towards the media in a way which is meant to uphold plurality and independence. It needs to do this urgently for The Telegraph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Telegraph is currently run by a group of independent directors who were originally appointed in summer 2023 when Lloyds Banking Group seized the company from the Barclay family, in a dispute about 1.2bn in overdue debts secured against it. When the Barclay family repaid their borrowing via a complex deal with Abu Dhabi, Lucy Frazer, culture secretary under the Conservatives, issued a Public Interest Intervention Notice to prevent RedBird IMI taking control. Then Tory culture secretary Lucy Frazer blocked the RedBird IMI takeover of The Telegraph in December 2023 - Yui Mok/PA Wire The independent directors were kept in place by the Government and now report regularly to Ms Nandys officials. They must ask the Governments permission to make crucial financial and personnel decisions. The Culture Secretary has powers to refer RedBird IMIs deal to the Competition and Markets Authority for further investigation, which could in turn lead to legal order to sell. Such a move would trigger the publication of a potentially embarrassing report on the possible threat to press freedom posed by Abu Dhabi which was prepared last year by the media regulator Ofcom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The row over the future of The Telegraph has become a significant diplomatic issue between the UK and the UAE. Downing Street has refused to say whether Sir Keir Starmer discussed it when he travelled to Abu Dhabi last month to drum up investment. In a new year message to staff, Chris Evans, The Telegraphs editor-in-chief said: Last year was supposed to be the year when The Telegraph was sold. We were told we would be sold by the summer, then by autumn and, at the latest, by Christmas. But The Telegraph hasnt been sold and we dont know when it might be sold. It might happen tomorrow, it might not happen this year. We just dont know. Nobody involved would describe the process as satisfactory. Theres obviously a limit to what we can do in these circumstances but were going to try to do everything we can to recover momentum and to defeat the inevitable sense of drift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dovid Efune, the publisher of the New York Sun website, emerged from the second round as the leading bidder, comfortably ahead of rivals and the only one to offer enough for RedBird IMI to recoup the cash it loaned to the Barclay family. Dovid Efune failed to meet a deadline to raise financing for his proposed takeover of The Telegraph - Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images He has subsequently struggled to raise the necessary funds, however. In meetings with Telegraph executives before Christmas at the end of an exclusivity period which had already been extended the entrepreneur gave little reason to believe he will succeed. Other interested parties have included the advertising tycoon Lord Saatchi, newspaper entrepreneur David Montgomery, hedge fund co-founder Sir Paul Marshall and Todd Boehly, the Chelsea FC investor. A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesman said: The Government is not involved in the sale process of The Telegraph at this stage. This is for Redbird IMI alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source close to Ms Nandy said: Any serious and responsible politician would know that the Secretary of State is prevented from expressing a view on this case. 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. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) As temperatures dip down below freezing later this week, and with anticipated snow and ice in the area, multiple cities in Middle Tennessee have opened up warming or cold weather shelters for those in need. Here are were some warming shelters are located in Middle Tennessee. Davidson County Nashville Rescue Mission (all welcome) 639 Lafayette St., Nashville, 37203 Call 615-255-2475 for more information on mens location or 615-312-1574 for more information on women and childrens location. Room in the Inn (men only) 705 Drexel St., 37203 Open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information call 615-251-7019. Cold temps continue with more snow on the way Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Launch Pad (youth shelter for ages 18-24) Apply by visiting this link online and checking availability from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. each day. Shelter hours are 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Located in Donelson and Green Hills location varies depending on needs. Those using the shelter receive location information upon registration. No animals unless they are documented service animals. Metro Overflow Homeless Shelter 3230 Brick Church Pike, 37297 Hot meals and snacks available. Single adults, couples, young adults, registry participants and pet owners accepted. No children allowed. Mats and cots are provided. Dogs are allowed, with kennels provided. Pets must be kenneled during transport. Operational hours are 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. when activated. Activation criteria are a 32-degree temperature threshold, announced at 9 a.m. daily. Parking is available at the shelter, and the WeGo Line #23B from WeGo Central (400 Dr. MLK Blvd) will provide service for free after 7 p.m. A return bus pass will be provided as well. Robertson County My Fathers House Mission 101 10th Ave. E, Springfield, 37172 The cold weather shelter operates from November through February and houses the local homeless community during the winter months. Location is immediately behind Southside Drug Store. Montgomery County Clarksville Area Urban Ministries Warming Center at Madison Street United Methodist Church 300 Commerce St., Clarksville, TN City buses will take anyone going to the shelter there for free regardless of if they have a bus pass. Shelter expected to be open every night in January and into February if extended forecast stands. PHOTOS: Ice and snow across Middle TN, Southern KY Maury County Starting Tuesday, Jan. 7, through Saturday, Jan. 11, those needing shelter can seek temporary shelter at either First United Methodist Church or West 7th Church of Christ. First United Methodist Church 222 W. 7th St., Columbia, 38401 Operational hours 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. West 7th Church of Christ 405 W. 7th St., Columbia, 38401 Operational hours 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3 injured in Simpson County crash involving snowplow Sumner County Due to the cold temperatures, an Emergency Overnight Warming Shelter will open at the Portland Police Department. 433 N. Broadway St., Portland, 37148 Hours 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. Limited access facility; open through lobby and use lobby phone to call dispatch for assistance The Stay Warm Shelter began operating Friday, Jan. 3, and will open every Friday night in January and February from 9 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Community Life Center Gym in Gallatin. 260 East Winchester Street, Gallatin, 37066 Rutherford County Coldest Nights emergency shelters are operational in Murfreesboro. Announcements are made each day on the Murfreesboro Cold Patrol Facebook page. Dinner location changes daily, but shelter doors open at 7 p.m. Men: First Baptist Church 200 E. Main St., Murfreesboro, 37130 Vine Street entrance across from the fire department Women: St. Pauls Episcopal Church 116 N Academy St., Murfreesboro, 37130 Entrance at the corner of College and Academy Family with children: Salvation Army 1137 W. Main St., Murfreesboro, 37130 Women with children: Safe Haven 720 Old Salem Road, Murfreesboro, 37130 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Coffee County The Tullahoma Winter Shelter Project has been operational since the end of December. The location changes depending on the week. The full schedule of shelter locations is available on the Tullahoma Winter Shelter Project Facebook page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the week of Jan. 5-11, the cold weather shelter is located at Trinity Lutheran Church , 705 Wilson Ave., Tullahoma, 37388 Starting Jan. 12-18, the shelter will be at Cedar Lane Church of Christ , 1200 Cedar Lane, Tullahoma, 37388 Jan. 19-25: First Presbyterian Church, 204 E. Grundy St., Tullahoma, 37388 The shelter will operate through March 1. Shelter hours are 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. each day. Those needing shelter can arrive any time between 8-9 p.m. Wilson County Wilson County EMA and community partners will open the extreme weather emergency shelter to provide a warm, safe place for those in need during the upcoming extreme cold and snow. Hale Moss Building, Wilson County Fairgrounds 945 E. Baddour Parkway, Lebanon, 37087 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. Jan. 8 through morning of Jan. 12 Cots, pillows, blankets, dinner and snacks provided No restrictions on pets in the shelter While the shelter is temporary, the community volunteer network will be reaching out for volunteers to assist. Food and gift card donations will be accepted. Transportation will also be offered. Williamson County The Williamson County Homeless Alliance operates an emergency shelter any time the temperature reaches below 32 degrees. Franklin Community Church Community Center 233 Natchez Street, Franklin, 37064 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meet at the Community Center for supper before heading to a different local church each night. Transportation is not provided. Dont forget to take the power and reliability of the WKRN Weather Authority with you at all times by downloading the News 2 Storm Tracker app. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Several high profile local cases are headed to trial in 2025, including multiple for former Columbus police officers and women accused of killing their children. Incidents that garnered national attention, including three officer-involved shootings and the killings of two children, are scheduled to see their day in court this year. While records show the following trials are expected to occur in Franklin County courtrooms in 2025, trial dates are subject to change. Connor Grubb Connor Grubb, 30, is charged with four counts of murder, four counts of felonious assault and two counts of involuntary manslaughter in relation to the deaths of TaKiya Young, 21, and her unborn daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges stem from an August 2023 incident, in which Young was caught on camera stealing several bottles of liquor with two others from a Kroger in northeast Columbus, then exiting the store. A store employee flagged down Grubb and another officer from Blendon Township police who happened to be there helping a person get into their locked car and directed them to Young. New leadership sworn in at Ohio Statehouse The pair approached Young, who was in a parked car with no license plate. The accompanying officer yelled at her multiple times to get out of her car as Grubb moved in front of it. She responded, I didnt steal s, and, What, are you going to shoot me?. Young then began to pull out of her parking spot, when Grubb fired a single shot through the windshield as he fell onto the hood. Young was taken to a hospital, where she and the unborn child died. Grubb said multiple times at the scene that Young was going to run [him] over. His trial is set for July 14. Connor Grubb and TaKiya Young (NBC4) Jason Meade Jason Meade, a 48-year-old former Franklin County sheriffs deputy, is charged with one count of murder and one count of reckless homicide for fatally shooting 23-year-old Casey Goodson Jr. Meade already faced trial once in February 2024, which ultimately ended in a deadlocked jury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 4, 2020, Meade was coming off an assignment with the U.S. Marshals fugitive task force when he spotted Goodson and followed him back to his grandmothers residence at Estates Place on Columbus north side. Child suffers fatal burns from hot water, Columbus police detain mother In his first trial, Meade claimed to see Goodson waving a gun while driving. After pursuing Goodson to his grandmothers house, Meade said Goodson was standing in the doorway of the house when he pointed his gun back at Meade. Goodson was shot six times, five of which hit his back. Investigators said a handgun was recovered from Goodson, who had a concealed carry permit. The state argued that the shooting was unjustified, citing a lack of corroboration that Goodson pointed his gun, either in his car or at his door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meades retrial is scheduled to begin on Feb. 27. Casey Goodson Jr., left, and former Franklin County Sheriffs Deputy Jason Meade Lashanda Wilder and Johnna Lowe Lashanda Wilder, 32, and Johnna Lowe, 33, are each charged with endangering children, felonious assault, murder, tampering with evidence and abuse of a corpse, in the death of Wilders 8-year-old son Martonio. On June 28, Columbus police officers were called by Wilder around noon. They spoke with her and her girlfriend, Lowe, when Wilder said she last saw Martonio on Thursday night. Police issued a missing persons advisory for Martonio but did not elevate it to an Amber Alert. They began a K-9 search of the neighborhood, after which Wilder and Lowe left without telling police where they were going. With them were Wilders other two children, aged 9 and 3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New details for Cameron Mitchell hotel, restaurant in Dublins Bridge Park After police could not reach Wilder, a search warrant was obtained for the house, leading to the discovery of Martonios body that evening. Court records said the body was found in the attic in a trash bag that had been placed in a sleeping bag cover. Martonios cause of death was later determined to be compression of the neck. Shortly after discovering Martonio, an Amber Alert was briefly issued for the two other children, who were found safe with an acquaintance of Lowes, and then placed in the custody of Franklin County Children Services. Prosecutors have since shared allegations of abuse that go back years before the death, claiming Wilder has admitted to locking Martonio in a small coat closet where he slept at night so he could not sneak out for food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An autopsy also revealed that Martonio was severely malnourished and dehydrated, with multiple cuts and bruises when he died. Wilders trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 16, and Lowes on Jan. 30. Wilder (left) and Lowe (right). Martonio Wilder Pammy Maye Pammy Maye, 50, is charged with aggravated murder, abuse of a corpse and three counts of tampering with evidence in relation to the death of Darnell Taylor, 5, of whom she was a legal guardian. On Feb. 14, Mayes husband called 911, telling dispatchers Maye said Taylor was dead and that he could not find the child in their home, located in Columbus South Side. Maye then fled the area, prompting a statewide Amber Alert for Taylor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers found Maye on Feb. 15 inside a building near Cleveland. Maye then admitted to killing the boy because he ate snacks in bed and told investigators where they could locate his body. Watch: Porch pirate snatches package worth over $1,000 in front of delivery driver Maye repeatedly referred to the killing as premeditated, explaining to law enforcement how on Feb. 13, hours after she learned Taylor had eaten in bed, she went to his bedroom with a trash bag. She placed him in the bag, tied it and waited 10 minutes, she said. Maye said she then placed his body, still in the bag, in a closet. When her husband came home, Maye said he thought Taylor was asleep. At about 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 14, she disposed of Taylors body. Police revealed on Feb. 16 they found Taylor dead in a sewage drain in the 1000 block of Marsdale Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her trial is scheduled to start on Jan. 21, according to Franklin County court records. Pammy Maye (Courtesy/Franklin County Municipal Court) Darnell Taylor. Ricky Anderson Former Columbus police officer Ricky Anderson, 62, is charged with murder and reckless homicide for fatally shooting Donovan Lewis, 20. On Aug. 30, 2022, several Columbus police officers, including Anderson, went to an apartment building in the Hilltop neighborhood to serve Lewis an arrest warrant. Lewis was facing charges of improperly handling a firearm, assault and domestic violence. List: Companies with Ohio ties that filed for bankruptcy in 2024 Once in the apartment, a police dog began barking at a bedroom door in the back of the unit. Anderson and another officer walked to that door, with their guns drawn, prepared to open it. Body camera footage showed Anderson shot Lewis, who was sitting up in bed, within a second of opening the bedroom door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police Chief Elaine Bryant told reporters in August 2022 that Anderson fired his gun when Lewis appeared to raise a hand with something in it. While Lewis was determined to be unarmed, Bryant stated that a vape pen was found in the bed next to him. Andersons trial is scheduled to begin on May 5. Ricky Anderson Donovan Lewis (Courtesy Photo/Lewis 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. By Akbar Novruz Georgias ruling party has urged French authorities to hold new elections, citing public dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron's leadership. We have no intention of interfering in Frances internal affairs, but given that 61% of the French population supports President Macron's resignation and 50% want the National Assembly dissolved, new elections would be a good way out of this political crisis, stated the chairman of Georgia's ruling party. This comes in response to France's earlier expression of concern regarding parliamentary elections in Georgia, marking a notable exchange of political criticisms between the two nations. If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way. Reverend Dr. Martin Lather King Jr. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) Officials with the City of New Orleans Martin Luther King Jr. Planning Commission announced the upcoming lineup of events set to honor the late Civil Rights leader. The holiday falls on Monday, Jan. 20 this year. Fifth annual Algiers Mardi Gras Parade and Festival returns as biggest-ever To celebrate Dr. Kings enduring vision of justice, equality, and nonviolent social change, the theme of the celebration A Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits to highlight the interconnectedness of African heritage and its profound impact on American culture, according to city officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2025 events: 2025 National Conference of Artists Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Art Exhibition A Time to Break Silence: African Roots/American Fruits Larry Ra Opening Reception Date: Saturday, Jan. 11 Time: 2:00 p.m. Location: Rosa F. Keller Library Gallery, 4300 South Broad Street, New Orleans, LA 70125 A celebration of featured artist Larry Ra and his remarkable contributions to the exhibition. His one-man exhibition is titled BRAVE: An Art Exhibit National Juried MLK Exhibition Opening Reception Date: Saturday, Jan. 18 Time: 12 p.m. Location: Ashe Cultural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70113 A showcase of works by artists nationwide, featuring recognition of civil rights leaders Doratha Dodie Smith Simmons and Jerome Big Duck Smith. Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Choral Concert Date: Thursday, Jan. 16 Time: 6 p.m. Location: UNO University Center Ballroom, 2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA 70148 A night of moving musical performances that honor Dr. Kings legacy. 39th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Service Date: Sunday, Jan. 19. Time: 12 p.m. Location: Holy Faith Temple Baptist Church The Treme Church, 1325 Gov. Nicholls Street, New Orleans, LA 70116 This impactful event will feature dynamic speeches from local dignitaries, civil rights leaders, and community activists, alongside musical performances, spoken word pieces, and a short documentary on local civil rights contributions. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. LITTLE RIVER, S.C. (WBTW) Monday marked four years since the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot that led to a Little River man serving federal jail time until his release in August. Nicholas Languerand was one of 17 South Carolinians arrested in the incident and one of more than 1,500 people in total who were charged, according to the Associated Press. Now, lawmakers and officials are bracing for the prospect of some of those 1,500 being pardoned, as President-elect Donald Trump said he would issue pardons to rioters on Day 1 of his presidency, which begins Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Languerand pleaded guilty and was sentenced on Jan, 26, 2022, to 44 months in prison by Judge John Bates for his involvement in the Capitol riot, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. He was released on Aug. 6, 2024. As part of his sentence, he was also ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution and perform 60 hours of community service, according to the Department of Justice. He will continue to have two years of supervised release. 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, the AP reports. At his sentencing, prosecutors said Languerand has a pattern of following conspiracy theories into belligerent confrontations with the people around him, according to CBS News reporter Scott MacFarlane. Hes also been previously accused of making threats, harassment, and stalking in Vermont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Languerand called himself a patriot and said he would never be involved in anything like this again, according to MacFarlane. Languerand threw objects, including an orange traffic barrier, at police officers at the Capitol, according to the Justice Department. He also took a police riot shield and used it as he approached officers. *Information from the Associated Press contributed to this story. * * * Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. 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 WBTW. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Colder temperatures mean more layers for people in central Arkansas this week. Construction worker Lonnie Gieb said for him the cold weather is unavoidable. Whether its cold, hot, it doesnt matter, Gieb said. Just put your clothes on, get out there and put your hands on something. Experts offer car-prep tips for when the winter weather hits Arkansas Others in the area said theyre trying their best to stay inside, and away from our unpredictable weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well it was not cold yesterday, but man it is cold today, Dan Stockelman, from Texas, said. But the empty sidewalks make for a busy coffee shop, like Nexus in downtown Little Rock. The store is a haven for people trying to escape the cold. Tal Shem Dov is visiting from Israel. She said the transition in the weather took her by surprise Its very cold, Im not used to that extreme, she said. Im wearing four layers. How Arkansans can care for pets as temperatures drop Whether youre inside or outside, any time spent in these chilly temperatures is proof enough the winter weather has made an appearance in Arkansas. 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. CHICAGO Family and community activists are speaking out after a deadly police-involved shooting last week in Little Village The victim, identified as Timothy Glaze, reportedly was living at the Albany Terrace Apartments a senior living community and was battling three types of cancer. Glazes girlfriend Charlotta Pritchett said she called police Friday morning to the home she shared with Glaze at Albany Terrace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Chicago police fatally shoot knife-wielding man in West Side apartment; COPA investigating Pritchett spoke at a press conference Monday morning and said Glaze was acting out of character that evening and was holding a knife, so she called 911. He sat next to me on the bed with this knife. Like I said, he was treating it like it was a pencil or pen, and I think he said, Im not going to hurt you. I just want to talk to you, and I just felt uneasy, Pritchett said. I dont want to call 911 ever again in my life. When police showed up, she said gunfire rang out. Before I could get out of the chair to say, Hey, Im the lady who called, I didnt get a chance to get to the door when we heard this enormous amount of gunfire, at least 35 or 40 rounds, and I froze, and the lady who was sitting with me, she looked at me and she said, Im so sorry, but your friend is dead,' Pritchett said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waukegan man, 16-year-old boy charged after shooting, extensive police chase in Lake County; driver at large That scene unfolded as other residents slept close by. Police said after officers reached the apartment, Glaze confronted them with a knife still in his hand. However, those who spoke at Mondays press conference denied he was a threat. The guy had prostate cancer, he had liver cancer and he had colon cancer, fourth stage, and he moved like a snail, Charles Odum, chairman of the Union to End Slums, said. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is now investigating the incident, but community activists want answers now, saying body worn camera footage needs to be released immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to make sure that not only that we get the videos, but we also get these officers charged with murder, said Baltazar Enriquez with the Little Village Community Council. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines They claim what was likely a mental breakdown should never have been met with gunshots. A resident, a guest here had a mental crisis, and instead of getting medical attention, he got 28 bullets, Enriquez said. COPA released a statement Monday saying a knife was recovered from the scene and that the footage will be posted to their website within 60 days as per the citys video release policy, unless prohibited by a court order. 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. (NewsNation) The body of former President Jimmy Carter arrived in Washington on Tuesday, where it will lie in state ahead of Thursdays funeral at Washington National Cathedral. Carter, who died at the age of 100 last week, had been lying in repose at the Carter Center in Atlanta before the 39th presidents remains were taken to Dobbins Air Force Base on Tuesday. Inclement weather on the East Coast delayed transporting Carters body to Washington by about 90 minutes Tuesday. Former President Jimmy Carters state funeral: What we know Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A small ceremony with Carters family took place at the Georgia Air Force Base before Carters remains were to be flown to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where another ceremony was scheduled to be held. Carter was first taken to the U.S. Naval Museum before the former presidents remains were transported to the U.S. Capitol. Carter served in the Navy before he became a Georgia state senator and the states governor. Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a eulogy at a ceremony for lawmakers Tuesday afternoon before public viewing at the Capitol Rotunda begins. In the ceremony, U.S. Senator Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, referred to Carter first and foremost as a faithful servant to his creator and his fellow man. Carter said after leaving the White House in 1981, Carter focused on making the lives of his fellow man better, including his work with Haibitat for Humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carter knew that his status a former president could bring attention to good causes, Thune said. But Thune said that rather than just lending his name to the effort to help others, Carter worked to get down in the weeds and the dirt. He did that literally on numerous Habitat builds, Thune said. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, remembered Carter as an extraordinary man who modeled the virtues of service and citizenship as well as any other American. The Vice President honored Carter, whom Harris described as a man whose works with echo for generations to come. Harris said she remembers being a middle schooler when Carter was president and how her mother admired Carters character, integrity, work ethic and determination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carter established a new model for what it means to be a former president and leaves an extraordinary post-presidential legacy, Harris said. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy at the national funeral ceremony Thursday, which will coincide with a national day of mourning. The most recent national day of mourning was held in 2018 following the death of President George H.W. Bush. Carter will then be returned to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he will be buried next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who died at the age of 96 in 2023. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Southern California finally received some much-needed rain this week after weeks of historically dry, windy weather fueled this month's deadly wildfire outbreak but with it came the threat of landslides, mudslides and toxic ash runoff in burn areas. According to the National Weather Service, more than an inch of rain fell in parts of Los Angeles over a three-day span, triggering flash flood watches and warnings. Some debris flows were reported along the Pacific Coast Highway, and snow in the surrounding mountains briefly shut down Interstate 5. But the wet weather was also a boon to firefighters who continue to battle four active wildfires that have scorched more than 57,000 acres. The three biggest the Palisades, Eaton and Hughes fires are each more than 95% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The Border 2 Fire, which erupted in the Otay Mountain Wilderness area east of Chula Vista late last week, is now 90% contained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Monday reiterating that people who are rebuilding their homes are not subject to environmental permit requirements laid out in the California Coastal Act. As the state helps the Los Angeles area rebuild and recover, we will continue to remove barriers and red tape that stand in the way," Newsom said. A report from the inspector generals office alleges that three senior Justice Department officials under Donald Trump had partisan political motivation for publicizing certain department activities ahead of the 2020 election. Inspector General Michael Horowitzs 53-page report, which was published by ABC News Tuesday as the result of a Freedom of Information Act request, detailed the efforts of senior officials to target states with Democratic governors ahead of the 2020 elections. That could potentially violate the Hatch Act, which forbids federal employees from engaging in certain political activities in their official capacities. In August 2020, the Department of Justice published a press release announcing that it had requested information about government-run nursing homes in Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, despite having been provided data indicating that the nursing homes with the most significant quality of care issues were in other states, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While no one complained about the press release at the time, more recently, current and former officials described it as unusual and inappropriate. As the election approached, the DOJs Civil Rights Division pressured individuals in the departments Civil Division to send a letter to New York officials seeking data on Covid-19 related deaths in private nursing homes. The report said that individuals in the Civil Division were led to believe that the order to make information about this letter public had come straight from thenAttorney General Bill Barr. In October 2020, a senior official with the DOJs Public Affairs Department texted colleagues that they wanted to leak information about the letter, as well as other information about an investigation into state-run nursing homes in New Jersey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im trying to get [them] to do letters to [New Jersey and New York] respectively on nursing homes. Would like to package them together and let [a certain tabloid] break it. Will be our last play on them before election but its a big one, the official wrote, according to the report. Then, a week before the election, information about the letter was provided to a New Yorkarea tabloid and published, accusing New York authorities of undercounting deaths in nursing homeswhich, to be clear, they actually had done, according to the report. On October 27, 2020, the New York Post published an exclusive article titled DOJ seeks more NY nursing home data after finding COVID death undercount. The then upcoming 2020 election may have been a factor in the timing and manner of those actions and announcing them to the public, Horowitz wrote in the report. He concluded that the three officials had violated the DOJs media contacts policy, and referred his findings to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. A private tutor hired by Seattle Public Schools to teach math at a local middle school has been charged with sexually assaulting a seventh grader he taught. King County prosecutors say Gregory Emmanuel Ward worked as a tutor for the nonprofit group City Year and tutored that child at Aki Kurose Middle School. Investigators say he worked with the student for months and the two had a sexting relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say it came to an end when the victims mother caught him groping her outside a restaurant. According to documents filed yesterday, the man is charged with raping her inside that same business. Ward is charged with two counts second-degree rape of a child and communication with a minor for immoral purposes. Bail has been set at $250,000, and his arraignment is in two weeks. A statement from Seattle Public Schools read: Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has been notified by the Seattle Police Department (SPD) that City Year employee Gregory Ward was arrested and is being investigated for the rape of a child for an incident occurring off-campus on or around Tuesday, Dec. 31. SPD has informed us that the child is an SPS student. Mr. Ward is currently in custody. SPD shared that Mr. Ward self-disclosed that he had communicated with a minor for immoral purposes via text message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City Year is a nonprofit organization providing services as a community partner of SPS in several district schools. Mr. Ward worked as a program manager for City Year at Aki Kurose Middle School and South Shore K-8. The district has prohibited Mr. Ward from returning to SPS schools. SPS is taking these allegations very seriously. The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority, and we are committed to taking appropriate steps to ensure their protection. While we have received no reports of any other alleged acts of misconduct involving Mr. Ward, we are investigating to determine whether any may have occurred. SPS is also evaluating the status of its partnership with City Year in light of this incident. We are also waiting for a response from City Year. Ward has already been removed from their website. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) The Panama City Music Association is hosting a tribute to Whitney Houston show at the Bay High School Fine Arts Center at 7:00 p.m. on January 7th. The event will include a live band, backing vocalists, choreographed dancers, and the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids. Plumbers advice to protect your pipes from freezing temperatures For more information on how to get tickets and watch the show, click on the video 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 mypanhandle.com. The Long Beach Police Department issued an update on Monday for a Dec. 26 hit-and-run that turned fatal when the 78-year-old victim, Nikki Rash, died from her injuries on Jan. 4. Detectives are asking for the publics help in finding the suspect who investigators believe may have been driving while distracted when he ran a red light and T-boned Nikkis car. Nikkis son, Chris Rash, told KTLA over the weekend that his mother was only blocks away from her home in the Bixby Knolls neighborhood when she was hit at the intersection of California Avenue and San Antonio Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. At that point in time, she was complaining of severe headache and neck pain, said Chris. Chris said when his family got to Nikki, she had no recollection of the collision after suffering a massive head injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Loved ones told KTLAs Carlos Saucedo that Gabby was at Nikkis side when she passed. Long Beach hit-and-run victim dies with her therapy dog at her side Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Police ask anyone who witnessed the collision or can identify the suspect driver to call Long Beach police detective Ashley Van Holland at 562-570-7355. 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. The peaceful transition of power to the 47th president of the U.S. occurred January 6, 2025. It was the loser of the presidential election who ensured an orderly process and ironically certified the results. In medicine, transitions of care whether from inpatient to skilled nursing facility, from hospital to home, or during the passing of responsibility from one practitioner to another represent pivotal moments in the continuity of patient treatment. These handoffs, rife with potential for miscommunication and error, are reminiscent of historical transitions of power in the U.S., where the stakes are equally high and the outcomes often uncertain. By drawing parallels between these two domains, we can illuminate both the pitfalls and the promise inherent in such critical junctures. The assassination scenario: chaos and urgency When a president is assassinated, as with Abraham Lincoln or John F. Kennedy, the transfer of power is abrupt and fraught with chaos. Similarly, a sudden transition of care can occur when a physician becomes unexpectedly unavailable, such as in an emergency or abrupt resignation. The handoff of patient care responsibilities between medical students, residents, or attending physicians during shift changes can also resemble the abrupt and often chaotic transitions of power following an unexpected event, such as the assassination of a president. In these moments, the incoming provider like Andrew Johnson or Lyndon B. Johnson must quickly establish authority, absorb the context of the situation, and steer the ship without prior preparation. Just as Lyndon Johnson had to navigate the minefields of the Civil Rights Movement and Vietnam War immediately upon taking office, an incoming physician must rapidly assimilate critical patient details while simultaneously making urgent medical decisions. The potential for mistakes is immense, but so too is the opportunity for decisive leadership. The resignation: precipitous departures The resignation of Richard Nixon in 1974 brought Gerald Ford to power under unusual and destabilizing circumstances. In medicine, this could be likened to a physician stepping away due to illness or other personal reasons, leaving behind unresolved patient issues. Gerald Fords task of restoring public trust parallels the challenge faced by a covering physician who must address both the unfinished tasks and the skepticism of patients and colleagues alike. Fords handling of the aftermath serves as a reminder that even in suboptimal conditions, stability can be restored with clear communication and steady leadership. The lame duck: minimal engagement A president nearing the end of their term a lame duck may become less engaged with the day-to-day responsibilities of governance. This can be mirrored in a physician going on vacation, nearing retirement, or transitioning to a new role, whose diminished investment might affect the quality of patient care. For example, a hospitalist or locum tenens physician who knows they are leaving at the end of the month might intentionally delay addressing complex issues, leaving a larger burden for their successor. Just as the transition from Herbert Hoover to Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Great Depression highlighted the risks of disengagement, so too can a lackadaisical handoff in medicine exacerbate challenges for incoming providers. The refusal to transition: contested handovers Donald Trumps refusal to concede the 2020 election epitomizes the dangers of a contested transition of power. In health care, this could be paralleled by providers who resist relinquishing control, either out of pride, mistrust, or a sense of unfinished business. For instance, an outgoing physician may be reluctant to transfer a long-term patient to another provider, withholding crucial details or undermining the new caregivers authority. The resultant friction can compromise patient outcomes, much as contested political transitions strain national stability. The harmonious transfer: similar paradigms When power transitions from one political party to another as from Jimmy Carter to Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush to Bill Clinton, or Barack Obama to Donald Trump it often signals a dramatic shift in priorities and policies. In medicine, this can resemble a patients care transitioning between practitioners with differing philosophies. For example, a holistic, patient-centered physician may transfer care to a more data-driven clinician, or vice versa. Such ideological contrasts can disorient patients and caregivers alike, requiring deliberate efforts to reconcile divergent approaches to ensure continuity of care. However, transitions can be harmonious despite political differences. Consider the transfer of power from President Dwight D. Eisenhower to John F. Kennedy. Both parties worked to ensure a seamless handover for the good of the nation. Similarly, in health care, detailed discharge planning, comprehensive medication reconciliation, and effective communication between hospital staff and receiving facilities are essential to prevent errors and ensure patients continue to receive the appropriate level of care. The goal is to maintain stability and continuity, minimizing the risk of complications or readmissions, analogous to maintaining constancy during a change in leadership. Leadership and politics in health care The critical role of leadership and politics in health care cannot be overstated. Just as political transitions depend on the vision, competence, and stability of incoming leaders, the success of transitions in care relies heavily on strong leadership within medical teams and institutions. Leaders in health care set the tone for collaboration, advocate for resources, and implement systems that minimize errors during transitions. Moreover, health care politics from hospital administration to national health policy play a pivotal role in shaping how care transitions are managed. Policies that prioritize patient safety, incentivize effective communication, and provide adequate staffing are as essential to health care as bipartisan cooperation is to governance. In both realms, leadership determines whether transitions lead to progress or regression, continuity or disruption. Lessons from history Historical transitions of power offer critical lessons for improving transitions of care. Just as the United States has developed protocols for the peaceful transfer of power such as the swearing-in of vice presidents, the sharing of intelligence briefings, and the preparation of transition teams health care can benefit from standardized procedures and collaborative practices. These might include detailed discharge summaries, structured sign-out protocols (e.g., SBAR: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation), and robust communication channels. Moreover, empathy and foresight are as vital in medicine as they are in governance. Leaders who recognize the gravity of transitions and approach them with humility and preparation can lessen risks and pave the way for success. Whether in the Oval Office or the operating room, the true measure of a transition lies not in the smoothness of the process but in its capacity to safeguard those most affected. A shared responsibility Ultimately, transitions whether of care or power are a shared responsibility. They demand not only the competence of the incoming leader or practitioner but also the cooperation and goodwill of the outgoing party. By acknowledging the parallels between these spheres, we can better appreciate the intricacies of both and strive to handle them with the grace they deserve. In doing so, we honor the trust placed in us by citizens or patients to guide them safely through uncertainty to stability and hope. Arthur Lazarus is a former Doximity Fellow, a member of the editorial board of the American Association for Physician Leadership, and an adjunct professor of psychiatry at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. He is the author of several books on narrative medicine, including Medicine on Fire: A Narrative Travelogue and Story Treasures: Medical Essays and Insights in the Narrative Tradition. Posts WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Snow looks pretty coming down. It looks pretty good, too, when it blankets an area. Inevitably, what nature gives, homeowners and business owners must take awayor face potential citations and fines from cities and counties. Snow removal ordinances for property owners vary from municipality to municipality, both in the lengths of time each affords people to remove snow from sidewalks and in possible penalties. We have a look at the rules for different locations in the DMV. For more information about the ones listed here, check with the municipality. (Youll want to the same for all of the others that arent on the list, too.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How much snow did DC get? D.C. When it comes to clearing sidewalks in the District, heres what the citys website lists as the shoveling requirments: DC law requires residential and commercial property owners to remove snow/ice from the sidewalks around their property within the first eight hours of daylight after a storm ends. Otherwise, commercial property owners may be fined $150, and residential property owners may be fined $25. The website notes that shoveling help is available. Homeowners who are 65 or older or people who live in the city and have disabilities, access, and functional needs can contact Serve DCs DC Volunteer Snow Team by calling 202-727-7925 to sign-up for the DC Volunteer Snow Removal Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C.s Department of Public Works Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program releases the same groups of people from the requirement to shovel snow from their sidewalks within the first eight hours after the end of a snowstorm. For more information about the exemption and to apply for it, you can click here. Snowplow Tracker: Find out where plows are in Virginia, Maryland Maryland Montgomery County Montgomery County tells people that good neighbors clear their sidewalks of ice and snow, encouraging everyone to be a good neighbor. County law says that property owners have to shovel sidewalks in front of their properties and alongside them within 24 hours after a snowstorm ends. The county reminds people to keep fire hydrants clear of snow. (In other words, when you shovel, dont pile the snow up around a hydrant.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Montgomery County encourages people to check on older adults and people who may have special needs during inclement weather and after it. Prince Georges County County ordinance says that property owners in Prince Georges remove accumulated snow and ice from abutting sidewalks within 48 hours after snow has fallen or ice has accumulated to a depth of at least 2 inches. If you dont clear abutting sidewalks within 24 hours, someone from the Prince Georges County Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) could issue a Reminder Notice/Door Hanger. If you dont clear the sidewalks within 24 hours of being issued a Reminder Notice (or 48 hours from the end of the snow event), you stand to get a citation for a $100 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prince Geroges County says it will issue another citation for each subsequent 24-hour period that the snow and ice accumulation continues to obstruct the sidewalk. Snow ice cream recipe Virginia Alexandria Alexandria City Code requires that people remove snow and ice from paved sidewalks within 24 to 72 hours after the end of a snowfall, depending on thw storm response level. The city lists three levels with the accompanying time in which sidewalks need to be cleared: Level 1 24 hours after snowfall stops Level 2 48 hours after snowfall stops Level 3 72 hours after snowfall stops Alexandria states: Owners and tenants who may be unavailable or unable to clear sidewalks themselves are responsible for making arrangements to have the work done for them in the event there is a storm. Arlington County Property owners in Arlington have to remove snow and ice from public sidewalks that are adjacent to their property. The county specifies that owners have to clear the entire width of the sidewalk, up to 3 feet wide, in order to accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, and adults who have children in hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The snow and ice have to be removed: Within 24 hours after the snow stops falling when accumulations are less than 6 inches Within 36 hours when 6 or more inches of snow accumulate (as measured at National Airport, per National Weather Service) If there happens to be another snow event within the timeframes, the clock resets to the end of the most recent snowfall. (In the case of the snow we received on Jan. 6, 2025, people have until 11 a.m. on Jan. 8, 2025 to clear the sidewalks.) If a property owner doesnt get things cleared in the time allotted, the person could receive a $50 penalty for sidewalks less than 200 feet in length or a $100 penalty for sidewalks longer than 200 feet. There are some other potential penalties involved with snow removal. Plus, there are exemptions to the rules. Fairfax County Fairfax Countys website says that people who live in the county and/or own buisnesses in the county arent legally obligated to clear snow and ice from sidewalks. Fairfax County does, however, ask people to help keep sidewalks safe, when possible, by clearing snow off the sidewalks in front of their property so that all pedestrians, especially school children, those with disabilities and the elderly, may walk securely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The county notes that homeowners associations (HOAs) may require peple in those communities to clear walkways. In those cases, youll want to make sure you know what your HOA says. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) Handcuffed and squatting on the floor, Abdullah Zahra saw smoke rising from his cellmates flesh as his torturers gave him electric shocks. Then it was Zahras turn. They hanged the 20-year-old university student from his wrists until his toes barely touched the floor and electrocuted and beat him for two hours. They made his father watch and taunted him about his sons torment. That was 2012, and the entire security apparatus of Syrias then-President Bashar Assad was deployed to crush the protests that had arisen against his rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Assads fall a month ago, the machinery of death that he ran is starting to come out into the open. It was systematic and well-organized, growing to more than 100 detention facilities where torture, brutality, sexual violence and mass executions were rampant, according to activists, rights group and former prisoners. Security agents spared no one, not even Assads own soldiers. Young men and women were detained for simply living in districts where protests were held. As tens of thousands disappeared over more than a decade, a blanket of fear kept the Syrian population silent. People rarely told anyone that a loved one had vanished for fear they too could be reported to security agencies. Now, everyone is talking. The insurgents who swept Assad out of power opened detention facilities, releasing prisoners and allowing the public to bear witness. Crowds swarmed, searching for answers, bodies of their loved ones, and ways to heal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Associated Press visited seven of these facilities in Damascus and spoke to nine former detainees, some released on Dec. 8, the day Assad was ousted. Some details of the accounts by those who spoke to the AP could not be independently confirmed, but they matched past reports by former detainees to human rights groups. Days after Assads fall, Zahra now 33 -- came to visit Branch 215, a detention facility run by military intelligence in Damascus where he was held for two months. In an underground dungeon, he stepped into the windowless, 4-by-4-meter (yard) cell where he says he was held with 100 other inmates. Each man was allowed a floor tile to squat on, Zahra said. When ventilators weren't running -- either intentionally or because of a power failure -- some suffocated. Men went mad; torture wounds festered. When a cellmate died, they stowed his body next to the cell's toilet until jailers came to collect corpses, Zahra said. Death was the least bad thing, he said. We reached a place where death was easier than staying here for one minute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assad's system of repression grew as civil war raged Zahra was arrested along with his father after security agents killed one of his brothers, a well-known anti-Assad graffiti artist. After they were released, Zahra fled to opposition-held areas. Within a few months, security agents returned and dragged off 13 of his male relatives, including a younger brother and, again, his father. They were brought to Branch 215. All were tortured and killed. Zahra later recognized their bodies among photos leaked by a defector that showed the corpses of thousands killed while in detention. Their bodies were never recovered, and how and when they died is unknown. Rights groups estimate at least 150,000 people went missing after anti-government protests began in 2011, most vanishing into Assads prison network. Many of them were killed, either in mass executions or from torture and prison conditions. The exact number remains unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even before the uprising, Assad had ruled with an iron fist. But as peaceful protests turned into a full-fledged civil war that would last 14 years, Assad rapidly expanded his system of repression. New detention facilities sprung up in security compounds, military airports and under buildings all run by military, security and intelligence agencies. Touring the site of his torture and detention, Zahra hoped to find some sign of his lost relatives. But there was nothing. At home, his aunt, Rajaa Zahra, saw the pictures of her killed children for the first time. She had refused to look at the leaked photos before. She lost three of her six sons in Branch 215 and a fourth was killed at a protest. Her brother, she said, had three sons, now he has only one. They were hoping to finish off all the young men of the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Syrians were tortured with the tire and magic carpet The tortures had names. One was called the magic carpet, where a detainee was strapped to a hinged wooden plank that bends in half, folding his head to his feet, which are then beaten. Abdul-Karim Hajeko said he endured this five times. His torturers stomped on his back during interrogations at the Criminal Security branch, and his vertebrae are still broken. My screams would go to heaven. Once a doctor came down from the fourth floor (to the ground floor) because of my screams, he said. He was also put in the tire. His legs were bent inside a car tire as interrogators beat his back and feet with a plastic baton. When they were done, he said, a guard ordered him to kiss the tire and thank it for teaching him how to behave. Hajeko was later taken to the notorious Saydnaya Prison, where he was held for six years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many prisoners said the tire was inflicted for rule violations -- like making noise, raising ones head in front of guards, or praying or for no reason at all. Mahmoud Abdulbaki, a non-commissioned air force officer who defected from service, was put in the tire during detention at a military police facility. They forced him to count the lashes up to 200 and if he made a mistake, the torturer would start over. Peoples hearts stopped following a beating, the 37-year-old said. He was later held at Saydnaya, where he said guards would terrorize inmates by rolling a tire down the corridor lined with cells and beat on the bars with their batons. Wherever it stopped, the entire cell would be subjected to the tire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altogether, Abdulbaki spent nearly six years in prison over different periods. He was among those freed on the day Assad fled Syria. Saleh Turki Yahia said a cellmate died nearly every day during the seven months in 2012 he was held at the Palestine Branch, a detention facility run by the General Intelligence Agency. He recounted how one man bled in the cell for days after returning from a torture session where interrogators rammed a pipe into him. When the inmates tried to move him, all his fluids poured out from his backside. The wound opened from the back, and he died, he said. Yahya said he was given electric shocks, hanged from his wrists, beaten on his feet. He lost half his body weight and nearly tore his own skin scratching from scabies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They broke us, he said, breaking into tears. Look at Syria, it is all old men ... A whole generation is destroyed. But with Assad gone, he was back visiting the Palestine Branch. I came to express myself. I want to tell. The mounting evidence will be used in trials Torture continued up to the end of Assads rule. Rasha Barakat, 34, said she and her sister were detained in March from their homes in Saqba, a town outside Damascus. Inside a security branch, she was led past her husband, who had been arrested hours earlier and was being interrogated. He was kneeling on the floor, his face green, she said. It was her last brief glimpse of him: He died in custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During her own hours-long interrogation, she said, security agents threatened to bring in her sons, 5- and 7-years-old, if she didnt confess. She was beaten. Female security agents stripped her and poured cold water on her, leaving her shivering naked for two hours. She spent eight days in isolation, hearing beatings nearby. Eventually she was taken to Adra, Damascus central prison, tried and sentenced to five years for supporting rebel groups, charges she said were made up. There she stayed until insurgents broke into Adra in December and told her she was free. An estimated 30,000 prisoners were released as fighters opened up prisons during their march to Damascus. Barakat said she is happy to see her kids again. But I am destroyed psychologically Something is missing. It is hard to keep going. Now comes the monumental task of accounting for the missing and compiling evidence that could one day be used to prosecute Assads officials, whether by Syrian or international courts. Hundreds of thousands of documents remain scattered through the former detention facilities, many labeled classified, in storage rooms commonly underground. Some seen by the AP included transcripts of phone conversations, even between military officers; intelligence files on activists; and a list of hundreds of prisoners killed in detention. Shadi Haroun, who spent 10 years imprisoned, has been charting Assads prison structure and documenting former detainees experiences from exile in Turkey. After Assads fall, he rushed back to Syria and toured detention sites. The documents, he said, show the bureaucracy behind the killings. They know what they are doing, it is organized. Civil defense workers are tracking down mass graves where tens of thousands are believed to be buried. At least 10 have been identified around Damascus, mostly from residents reports, and five others elsewhere around the country. Authorities say they are not ready to open them. A U.N. body known as the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism has offered to help Syria's new interim administration in collecting, organizing and analyzing all the material. Since 2011, it has been compiling evidence and supporting investigations in over 200 criminal cases against figures in Assads government. Robert Petit, director of the U.N. body, said the task is so enormous, no one entity can do it alone. The priority would be to identify the architects of the brutality. Many want answers now. Officials cannot just declare that the missing are presumed dead, said Wafaa Mustafa, a Syrian journalist, whose father was detained and killed 12 years ago. No one gets to tell the families what happened without evidence, without search, without work. HOPE will offer overnight severe weather shelters through Monday for people who need a place to sleep for the night. HOPE is the nonprofit group Homeless Outreach Providing Encouragement in Longmont. Workers will offer the shelter Sunday through Wednesday at Journey Church, 2000 Pike Road. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, workers will host the shelter at Messiah Church, 1335 Francis St. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and anyone who is not previously banned and needs a warm place to sleep for the night is welcome. For more information, call 720-494-4673 or visit hopeforlongmont.org. DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) Veteran of the Alabama House of Representatives and Ozark native Steve Clouse announced he wants to serve another term. Clouse tells WDHN that he will seek reelection despite considering retiring after his current term is over in November 2026. A Republican, the Ozark native assumed office for Alabama District 93 in 1994. Days of mourning announced for Alabama students killed in New Orleans terror attack Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clouse says the outpouring of support from his constituents in Dale and Houston Counties and other members in the Alabama House, including House Speaker Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter, made him reconsider retirement. Clouse vied for the speaker seat in 2022 but lost out to Ledbetter. During his lengthy time in office, Clouse helped secure around $12 million in funding for Dothan to receive a mental health crisis center and forensic sciences lab. According to Clouse, the new forensic sciences lab would cut wait times for drug tests in Alabama. Security increased at Fort Novosel The 68-year-old representative was also on the delegation to get around $20 million for the Wiregrass Innovation Center, a 45,000-square-foot facility at the heart of the Dothan City Center project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Construction is expected to last until 2025. The center will be located next to the Wiregrass Museum of Art. No one has announced that they will run against Clouse in 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 WDHN - wdhn.com. LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK) The Longview Municipal Court will be offering those with outstanding warrants an opportunity to resolve cases and save their court fines in 2025. Through April 30, 2025, the Longview Municipal Court will provide a warrant amnesty program to those with outstanding warrants. The amnesty program will cause all warrant fees to be removed when someone voluntarily contacts the court to pay at least half the total amount due and start a payment plan for the remaining balance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An additional 20% will be removed from the fine amount for those who pay their balance in full, the City of Longview said. The discount only applies to the fine amount and does not include court costs. According to the City of Longview, a total of 258 people took advantage of the the warrant amnesty program in 2023, resolving 454 warrants and saving thousands of dollars. The Longview Municipal Court encourages anyone with an active, outstanding warrant to use this program to save some money and get a fresh start. Anyone coming to the court to take care of their warrants will be given safe harbor, according to the city. The court will also offer assistance to those who are unable to pay at least half of their balance. Court staff will work with individuals to create an agreeable action plan for anyone willing to clear up their warrants, the City of Longview said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone interested in the warrant amnesty program, can visit the court at 302 W. Cotton St. inside the Longview Municipal Annex. The court can also be contacted at 903-237-1186 or by emailing court@LongviewTexas.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CLEVELAND (WJW) Egg prices are cracking budgets across Northeast Ohio as customers face sharp increases at grocery stores and local markets. The issue is hitting vendors and shoppers alike, with Clevelands iconic West Side Market feeling the pinch. At the West Side Market, longtime vendor Diane Devers shared her perspective on the price hike. Devers, who has been selling eggs and fresh produce at the market since the 1970s, says shes used to fluctuations in prices. But the recent jump left her stunned. First US bird flu death reported in Louisiana, health officials say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well today, the golden goose laid, she joked. The brown eggs are $8.50, and the white eggs are $7.25. Devers explained that the cost of a dozen jumbo eggs typically around $5 has surged to nearly $8. Shocked by the increase, she reached out to her suppliers for answers. The explanation I got was that its because of the bird flu and theyre catching up from the holiday baking season, Devers said. WJW photo Her suppliers claims align with reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which cites the ongoing avian flu as a major factor impacting egg production nationwide. The disease has led to tighter supplies, driving prices higher at every level of the supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Devers said the price hikes started just before the holidays, a busy time for baking and cooking. As for when prices will drop, she admits its anyones guess. West Side Market seeks funds to meet goal for renovation plans I hope, I hope soon, she said. Whenever I get a lower price, I will always lower it. The uncertainty leaves Northeast Ohioans wondering if customers will continue to buy quality eggs despite the rising costs. I think they will, Devers said optimistically. I think theyll still want to buy good, quality eggs. For now, Devers and her customers are keeping a close eye on the situation, hoping for relief soon. Until then, the golden goose has yet to deliver better news. 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 8 Cleveland WJW. By Jorge Garcia and Mike Blake LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A rapidly growing wildfire raged across an upscale section of Los Angeles on Tuesday, destroying numerous buildings and creating traffic jams as more than 30,000 people evacuated, while a second blaze doubled in size some 30 miles inland. At least 2,921 acres (1,182 hectares) of the Pacific Palisades area between the coastal towns of Santa Monica and Malibu had burned by the Palisades Fire, officials said, after they had already warned of extreme fire danger from powerful winds that arrived following extended dry weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A fire official told local television station KTLA that several people were injured, some with burns to faces and hands. The official added that one female firefighter had sustained a head injury. The second blaze dubbed the Eaton Fire broke out some 30 miles (50 km) inland near Pasadena and doubled in size to 400 acres (162 hectares) in a few hours, according to Cal Fire. Almost 100 residents from a nursing home in Pasadena were evacuated, according to CBS News. Video showed elderly residents, many in wheelchairs and on gurneys, crowded onto a smokey and windswept parking lot as fire trucks and ambulances attended. Fire officials said a third blaze named the Hurst Fire had started in Sylmar, in the San Fernando Valley northwest of Los Angeles, prompting evacuations of some nearby residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PALISADES FIRE Witnesses reported a number of homes on fire with flames nearly scorching their cars when people fled the hills of Topanga Canyon, as the fire spread from there down to the Pacific Ocean. Local media reported the fire had spread north, torching homes near Malibu. Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley had earlier told a press conference that more than 25,000 people in 10,000 homes were threatened. Firefighters in aircraft scooped water from the sea to drop it on the nearby flames. Flames engulfed homes and bulldozers cleared abandoned vehicles from roads so emergency vehicles could pass, television images showed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire singed some trees on the grounds of the Getty Villa, a museum loaded with priceless works of art, but the collection remained safe largely because of preventive efforts to trim brush surrounding the buildings, the museum said. With only one major road leading from the canyon to the coast, and only one coastal highway leading to safety, traffic crawled to a halt, leading people to flee on foot. Cindy Festa, a Pacific Palisades resident, said that as she evacuated out of the canyon, fires were "this close to the cars," demonstrating with her thumb and forefinger. "People left their cars on Palisades Drive. Burning up the hillside. The palm trees - everything is going," Festa said from her car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the fire started, the National Weather Service had issued its highest alert for extreme fire conditions for much of Los Angeles County from Tuesday through Thursday, predicting wind gusts of 50 to 80 mph (80 to 130 kph). With low humidity and dry vegetation due to a lack of rain, the conditions were "about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather," the Los Angeles office of the National Weather Service said on X. Governor Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency, said the state positioned personnel, firetrucks and aircraft elsewhere in Southern California because of the fire danger to the wider region, he added. The powerful winds changed President Joe Biden's travel plans, grounding Air Force One in Los Angeles. He had planned to make a short flight inland to the Coachella Valley for a ceremony to create two new national monuments in California but the event was rescheduled for a later date at the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have offered any federal assistance that is needed to help suppress the terrible Pacific Palisades fire," Biden said in a statement. A federal grant had already been approved to help reimburse the state of California for its fire response, Biden said. Pacific Palisades is home to several Hollywood stars. Actor James Woods said on X he was able to evacuate but added, "I do not know at this moment if our home is still standing." Actor Steve Guttenberg told KTLA television that friends of his were impeded from evacuating because others had abandoned their cars in the road. "It's really important for everybody to band together and don't worry about your personal property. Just get out," Guttenberg said. "Get your loved ones and get out." (Reporting by Jorge Garcia, Mike Blake and Daniel Cole in Los Angeles and Daniel Trotta in Carlsbad, California and Shubham Kalia in Bengaluru; Writing by Daniel Trotta; Editing by Mary Milliken, Sandra Maler and Lincoln Feast.) Louisianas attorney general announced Monday a full review of New Orleans security plans in the wake of the New Year's Day terrorist attack on Bourbon Street that killed 14 revelers and injured dozens more. State Attorney General Liz Murrill ordered the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation to examine the citys security plans for New Years Eve and the Sugar Bowl after having consulted with the governor, she said in a statement. Criticism and questions have been raised about New Orleans security protocol, in which it failed to deploy anti-vehicle barriers that it had owned for years. In addition, other barriers, known as bollards, had recently been removed because they were malfunctioning and needed to be replaced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. She said the review was expected to explore all aspects of planning and execution of security measures for New Year's Eve celebrations and the Sugar Bowl held on New Year's Day at the Superdome. She said funding, risk assessments and security policies would come under scrutiny. Murrill said police and city officials have pledged their support for the review. She thanked New Orleans police for their response, saying it was through their bravery and quick action that the attacker was killed before more lives were lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its my hope that our findings will help provide our law enforcement officers and the City of New Orleans with the tools and insight they need to best ensure the safety of the community and our many visitors, she said in the statement. New Orleans officials have defended the city's New Year's Eve security measures, which they said included installing temporary barriers, vehicles and law enforcement personnel throughout the French Quarter. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick described the attacker, who drove a pickup truck around a police car and then careened down the sidewalk on Bourbon Street, as a terrorist who was hell-bent on destruction. This man was going to do his best, and if it hadnt been on Bourbon, he was going to go somewhere else, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Biden on Monday upgraded the upcoming Mardi Gras in New Orleans to a Special Event Assessment Rating of 1, the highest level the Department of Homeland Security issues for significant events in the United States or abroad that require extensive federal interagency support. It had been assessed as a Level 2 event. The Biden administration said in a statement that federal assistance during March 4 Mardi Gras festivities could include explosive detection canine teams, cyber risk assessment, venue screening, field intelligence teams and air security and tactical operations support. The Super Bowl, which will be at the Superdome on Feb. 9, had already received a 1 rating, which it gets every year, no matter the host city. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com ST. LANDRY PARISH, La. Observing a joyous childrens holiday parade in the Louisiana parish she calls home, Clara LaFleur said that she isnt surprised that the political power of Black Louisianans in her congressional district is in peril. After all, she told Capital B, its long seemed as if no one has been a champion for them. Their concerns about schools that have fallen into disrepair are often ignored, and in 2024, Louisiana again rejected summer food assistance from the federal government that would have been especially helpful to poor Black communities, asserting that families ought to be self-sufficient. LaFleur grew up in Washington, a village of some 700 people in St. Landry Parish, which is located in the newly redrawn, majority-Black 6th Congressional District thats at the center of a critical legal battle. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments early this year over whether the boundaries of the district discriminate against non-Black residents, and a decision is expected by the end of June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A group of Louisiana voters is seeking to dismantle the district, which was signed into law in January 2024 to give Black residents fair political representation. In their complaint, the districts opponents refer to themselves as non-African American (at least a few of them are white). They claim that the district, which stretches from the state capital of Baton Rouge to Shreveport, both of which are majority Black, has injured non-African American voters by costing them one district. The case could be a vehicle through which the court denies Black Louisianans an advocate in Congress. It could also shape the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives, where Republicans have a thin majority: The court agreed on Nov. 4 to take up the case one day before state Sen. Cleo Fields, a Black Democrat, won the district. A coalition of attorneys general has submitted an amicus brief calling on the high court to uphold the revised map. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voters should be empowered to pick their representatives, not the other way around, New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. State legislatures have a constitutional right to redraw district maps when they are found to violate the Voting Rights Act and fail to fairly represent their communities. Whats been happening in Louisiana is destabilizing like whiplash, according to New Orleans resident Alanah Odoms. Theres been this two steps forward, one step back feeling the pendulum swinging forward and then rapidly backward, Odoms, the executive director of the ACLU of Louisiana, which has represented Black voters during the saga, told Capital B. People all across the state were excited about the voting rights victory we had and about having the additional seat filled by someone the community trusts and respects. The fact that Fields won his race nearly three decades after redistricting banished him from the House seemed like an act of fate, Odoms explained. But now, in an echo of a national pattern of resistance to racial progress, this triumph is being threatened. A sign supporting Cleo Fields sits in a yard. Last November, Fields won the race to represent Louisianas new majority-Black congressional district. The U.S. Supreme Court hears a challenge to the district this year. (Adam Mahoney/Capital B) From the enormously segregated Baton Rouge with its congested streets, to Lafayette with its sidelined neighborhoods, to Opelousas with its damaged roads, Black residents have long been forced to manage with relatively few resources. Around Fields office in downtown Opelousas, which was once the site of a racist massacre, there are storefronts that have been abandoned for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents say that this lack of resources has had major consequences: aging schools with crumbling foundations and inadequate classroom materials, roads riddled with potholes and scarred by cracked asphalt, and water systems so outdated that drinking a glass of tap water can feel like a gamble. Fields seems like hell be pushing to get things taken care of, things that would benefit us, LaFleur said. But it takes so long for anything real to happen, and if thats the case and they rip up the district, well never see anything from it. What the battle could mean for redistributing power The stakes of the case are sky-high. Additional Black representation in Congress means stronger advocacy in various arenas. Fields can push for more federal dollars to confront ongoing infrastructure challenges that plague wide swaths of the state, including parts of the new majority-Black district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Baton Rouge, for instance, historically Black neighborhoods have struggled for decades to secure funding to repair broken sewer lines and replace antiquated plumbing. They regularly pay higher water bills and endure boil advisories, all while wealthier, whiter areas enjoy swift improvements and modern updates. Meanwhile, in Lafayette, predominantly Black neighborhoods navigate a minefield of decaying roads. Here, damaged streets arent simply an inconvenience; they pose daily safety risks and slow economic progress, preventing small Black-owned businesses from thriving. Opelousas faces its own uphill battle. Many schools in the majority-Black city are starved of resources, and forced to rely on outdated textbooks, insufficient technology, and often bare-bones support services for students. We have the worst schools of all the parishes. There needs to be more support. We need more money than what we can cobble together locally, Shauna Sias, whos lived in Opelousas almost her entire life, told Capital B. Theyre questioning a Black district, but do they question the white ones? Its always us they have to question. Why? A house in St. Landry Parish, where Black communities are often denied basic resources. (Adam Mahoney/Capital B) Fields has been clear about the work that must still be done to improve the lives of poor and disenfranchised Black communities in the district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although we have passed an infrastructure bill, there are a lot of these local towns and municipalities throughout the district that cant access it. And so my congressional office will be working with these local towns and municipalities, he told BRProud last August, noting that raising the minimum wage and injecting more money into education also are priorities. Last November, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that it was giving Louisiana more than $40 billion to upgrade its water infrastructure. The same month, the U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Highway Administration said that it was directing nearly $32 million toward the states efforts to rebuild and update its transportation system. The entrance to the Opelousas Public Library. Like many other parts of the state, the largely Black city of Opelousas struggles with a litany of infrastructure challenges. (Adam Mahoney/Capital B) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case could have huge implications beyond Louisiana, too. In a striking turn, the non-Black voters argument weaponizes sections of the Constitution against the very communities they were designed to protect. These voters maintain that, by drawing a map with two majority-Black congressional districts, the state is violating the 14th and 15th Amendments, which were ratified during Reconstruction to guarantee equal protection of the law and expand the right to vote. But the voters argument ignores the purpose of the redrawn map, analysts say. Before 2024, Louisiana had only one district out of a total of six where Black residents could elect their preferred candidate, even though the state is around one-third Black. State lawmakers redrew the boundaries to add another majority-Black district. With two majority-Black districts, one-third of the districts are Black, corresponding proportionally to the Black population. If the Supreme Court sides with the non-Black voters, it could weaken Black Americans constitutional freedoms in Louisiana and beyond, and also potentially further inspire conservative actors elsewhere to try to defang civil rights protections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres this Reconstruction-era threat that comes from people who see the country as progressing too quickly who see things such as the 14 Amendment as doing too much, Odoms said. The Reconstruction amendments are so controversial because they fundamentally redistributed power in this country. And a redistribution of power means a redistribution of resources. It means a reorganization of a caste system. This is what the fight is about. Why Black Southerners feel like theyre always going back The battle for a fairly representative map has been flashing and flaring for years, and is part of a wider struggle for equality thats especially prominent in the South. After the 2020 census, Louisiana was supposed to address demographic shifts, including the growth of its Black population. Instead, in 2022, the Louisiana State Legislature overrode a veto to pass a congressional map that had only one majority-Black district. Advocacy organizations and Black voters sued the state, arguing that, without two such districts, the map violates the Voting Rights Act. The case went all the way to the Supreme Court, which paused the case while it heard a similar legal challenge out of Alabama. In a decision that surprised analysts, the high court in 2023 required Alabama to draw a map with two majority-Black congressional districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Evan Milligan, a lead plaintiff in the Alabama case, told Capital B at the time, Having an additional district would allow people to have another representative whos sympathetic to the region [the rural and impoverished Black Belt region] as well as to the concerns of folks here. And that congressperson would hopefully bring in resources and create a sense of urgency around community needs. Shomari Figures, whose late father was a revered attorney for having bankrupted the United Klans of America in 1987 after the lynching of a Black 19-year-old, won Alabamas new seat last November. His victory was lauded in a region thats a Republican stronghold and where racially polarized voting keeps power beyond the reach of Black Americans, who lean Democratic. The Alabama decision allowed the Louisiana case to proceed. Last January, Louisiana Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed into law a constitutional map, one with a second majority-Black district, and seemingly brought the fight to an end. Almost immediately, however, non-Black voters challenged the map, triggering a new case. Reviving an argument that stretches back to the 1990s, they insisted that the map is an unconstitutional racial gerrymander that discriminates against non-Black residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal district court agreed and struck down the map last April. But the Supreme Court granted the states request to pause the lower court order for redrawn lines. This allowed the state to use the map with two majority-Black districts in the 2024 elections. Now, the high court is going to weigh in on the case and, yet again, revisit the issue of map constitutionality. The map wasnt in our favor before, and a lot of us paid the price for that, Keith Aggison, a retired firefighter who lives in unincorporated St. Landry Parish, told Capital B. I hope that they let it stay the way it is and dont make us go back to what it was before. Were always going back. Keith Aggison wants the court to uphold the new map so that Black Louisianans can finally move forward. (Adam Mahoney/Capital B) He added that if you know Louisiana well, then you know that deep money and power are concentrated mostly in white communities, while Black communities are left with little or nothing. Keeping the new district wouldnt be the silver bullet that solves all Black Louisianans problems, of course. But according to Odoms, with the Louisiana branch of the ACLU, its best to think of the district as a stanza in a song as one part of something much bigger. I really do believe that this state has the capacity to engage folks whove been disconnected from the political process. We have to start seeing that our votes arent being diluted, she said. And the candidates people want to support, they have to see that they can win. If the math doesnt math, were not going to see talented people seek these important offices. The post Louisianas Brand New Majority-Black Congressional District Is in Peril appeared first on Capital B News. (Wesley Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) For seven months, the Louisiana Board of Ethics kept private documents about the financial interests of a handful of Gov. Jeff Landrys staff that are supposed to be public under state law. Personal financial disclosure forms for five of the governors top staff members should have been posted on the ethics board website in May, but the documents werent publicly available until last December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boards online database includes similar forms from hundreds of other elected officials, government employees and state board members. Forms were initially hidden for the governors chief of staff Kyle Ruckert, policy director Millard Mule, general counsel Angelique Freel, deputy chief of staff Andree Miller and legislative director Lance Maxwell. Disclosure documents filed by Elise Cazes, chief of staff to First Lady Sharon Landry, also werent posted on the ethics board website until last month, but Cazes wasnt legally required to submit the forms like the other members of Landrys staff. Personal financial disclosure paperwork is supposed to be an anti-corruption measure. The documents Landrys top staff members filled out reveal information about all of their personal income sources, their spouses jobs, investment holdings, property ownership and ties to charities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The transparency is supposed to help the public hold officials accountable and guard against public leaders enriching themselves or their families through their government jobs. The forms are due every year on May 15 and typically get loaded into the ethics boards database shortly afterward. The reports for Landrys staff showed up on the ethics boards website on or after Dec. 19. When the forms were eventually posted, the personal addresses of Landrys staff members which state law requires to be on the documents were blacked out. In May, the ethics board either pulled down or never uploaded the forms from the governors top aides its staff doesnt remember which happened after Landrys general counsels office complained that revealing the home addresses poses a security risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State employees are entitled to privacy in their homes, and no one should fear for their safety because of filing their ethics disclosure, Emily Andrews, special counsel to Landry, wrote in a letter to the ethics board at the time. Former ethics administrator Kathleen Allen, who left her job in late December, said she had waited to post the financial disclosure documents with the addresses blacked out until after the ethics board discussed whether that was appropriate at its meeting in early November. The redacted documents also appeared on the ethics board website a few days after a journalist asked the board and governors office questions about the missing paperwork. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Top tier While Louisiana requires hundreds of elected officials and government appointees to fill out personal financial disclosure forms each year, just a few are required to include their home addresses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only 33 state officials must submit a tier 1 personal disclosure form that requires them to disclose their residences. Most officials fill out a tier 2 or lower disclosure form and can list a mailing address different from their home address. Tier 1 officials include some of the most powerful in Louisiana government, such as the governor and other statewide elected officials, the heads of major state agencies and leaders of the four public higher education systems. It also applies to a handful of lower-profile positions, including five members of the governors staff, the executive secretary of the Public Service Commission and state civil service director. Andrews, from Landrys general counsels office, told the ethics board that the home addresses of the governors office should be redacted because legislators made it clear they want to protect state employees. She pointed to a state law approved earlier this year that keeps public employees personal phone numbers, email addresses and home addresses confidential in personnel records automatically. These employees [in Landrys office] are not elected officials and the legislature has ensured a reasonable expectation of privacy for them, Andrews wrote. Yet lawmakers are the only reason anyone on the governors staff has to fill out tier 1 financial disclosure forms at all. The Legislature insisted that the governors top staff members were subjected to the highest level of financial transparency during a 2008 overhaul of state ethics laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Lets shoot the messenger Former Gov. Bobby Jindal pushed hard to dramatically expand transparency into public officials financial interests during his first few weeks in office in 2008. Shortly after being elected, he called lawmakers into a special session on ethics that included a complete rewrite of the disclosure laws for public officials. Prior to Jindal taking office, the governor was the only elected official in Louisiana that had to file something akin to tier 1 financial disclosure form. Jindal advocated for a much broader swath of government officials to have to reveal similar details as part of an overall push to establish what he called a new gold standard of ethics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State lawmakers, annoyed they were being asked to reveal more of their own personal information, deliberately added the governors staff to the list of people who had to file tier 1 disclosure forms. I think the governors staff was pushing really hard on this ethics package, said Barry Erwin, president and CEO of the good government Council for A Better Louisiana, who lobbied for the wider disclosure at the time. I think the thought was, If you are pushing so hard for us to do these things, maybe the governors staff should have to do these things as well. Jimmy Faircloth, Jindals general counsel at the time, agreed that legislators likely included he and other members of the governors staff in the disclosure laws as retaliation for parts of the ethics package. All of our positions were included [by legislators], and we didnt push back, Faircloth said in an interview last month. You dont want to say were not willing to do what we are requiring others to do. I did feel a bit targeted, like a lets shoot the messenger thing when I was added, Faircloth said. A 2008 recording of legislative debate on the bill backs up Faircloths assumption. The Louisiana House broke into loud cheers and applause when Kirk Talbot of River Ridge, a current state senator who was a member of the House at the time, changed Jindals financial disclosure bill to include two members of the governors personal staff among the people subjected to tier 1 forms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During debate over the bill, legislators also repeatedly argued that the governors staff has more power over state government than individual legislators do and should be subjected to more stringent public disclosure requirements. In the governors office, I assure you that you can peddle a lot more influence than I can, former legislator Noble Ellington of Winnsboro said to Faircloth during a committee hearing on the bill. Ellington later became the director of legislative affairs for former Gov. John Bel Edwards and was required to submit the disclosure form himself. Attorney general backs calls for privacy Before the ethics board posted the governors staffs redacted forms online in December, a few members had expressed doubts they could do so without violating the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The board shouldnt obscure the home address on the forms without the Legislature changing the disclosure law first, they argued during their public meeting in November. Were constrained by the law, board member and former clerk of the Louisiana House Alfred Butch Speer said. [The legislators] should go in and surgically protect those rights by creating these exemptions for state employees. Attorney General Liz Murrill disagreed with Speers assessment. In a legal opinion issued to the ethics board, she argued a right to privacy included in the Louisiana Constitution trumps the 2008 ethics law mandating the residency disclosure. The home address of a public servant has minimal if any value to the public in relation to the employees public duties, she wrote. Murrill personally has filed tier 1 disclosure forms with her home address included as both the current attorney general and a former general counsel for Jindal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, a public transparency advocate said it would be best for state lawmakers to address the disagreement through legislation. It is a reasonable discussion to have about whether your home address should be there, but this should be something the Legislature has to weigh in on, said Steven Procopio, president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, which advocates for accountability in government. Louisiana authorities have promised much tighter security will be implemented in New Orleans for the upcoming Mardi Gras celebrations, following the deadly New Years Day terror attack that left 14 innocent people dead. State Attorney General Liz Murrill said measures would be in place throughout the period leading up to the festivals conclusion on March 4, and that some would likely become permanent. I think that we have to wrap our arms around the fact that this city can be a target for terrorism and that that isnt going to change, Murrill told reporters on Tuesday. I think that youre going to see a lot more resources moved into place during Mardi Gras. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre going to see barriers in place that we probably didnt have, because theres a recognition that not only have we just been through this terrible event but theres always a sense of concern that theres going to be some follow-up event. We definitely dont want anybody to come and think that because we were vulnerable once we are vulnerable again were not. Louisiana authorities have assured the public that tighter security measures will be in place for Mardi Gras celebrations, in the wake of the New Years Day terror attack in New Orleans (Getty Images) It comes as investigations continue into the attack in New Orleans French Quarter in the early hours of January 1, when 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove a truck down Bourbon Street, killing 14 people and injuring dozens. Despite ongoing concern, on Monday evening the first parade of the 2025 New Orleans Carnival season the Joan of Arc parade took place (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Jabbar, who was inspired by the terrorist group ISIS was later killed in a shootout with police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the press conference, Murill said members of the public had never been safer in the city of New Orleans due to the variety of police and federal resources in place every 10 feet. However, she added that part of the investigations into future security needs would include considering what measures would remain as permanent fixtures and whether attitudes need to change, whether cooperation needs to change whether individuals need to change. All of that is on the table, she said. State Attorney General Liz Murrill said measures would be in place throughout the period leading up to the festivals conclusion on March 4 (AP) In addition, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell put out a call over the weekend for a "tactical expert" to review the citys security capabilities prior to the Super Bowl LIX, which will be held at the citys Caesars Superdome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite ongoing concern, on Monday evening the first parade of the 2025 New Orleans Carnival season the Joan of Arc parade took place, just blocks from the tragic incident five days previously. Earlier in the day President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited Louisiana. Republican state officials and legislators in Louisiana argued to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday that the state has moved past racial discrimination in voting and so should be allowed to suppress Black voting power with impunity. In the newest attack on the hollowed-out Voting Rights Act, red states and right-wing lawyers are trying to stretch the Supreme Courts disastrous decision in Shelby County v. Holder to other parts of the law. In that 2013 decision, the conservative justices ruled that because racism isnt so bad anymore, states with histories of egregious voter discrimination should be free to continue the practice without having to first get permission, or preclearance, from the federal government. The ruling ushered in a flood of red-state voter restrictions and prompted then-Justice Ruth Bader Ginsbergs famous line in dissent: Throwing out preclearance when it has worked and is continuing to work to stop discriminatory changes is like throwing away your umbrella in a rainstorm because you are not getting wet. The new argument is part of a challenge to Louisianas state level legislative maps by a few voters represented by civil rights organizations, who argue that Black voters should make up a voting majority in several more state House and Senate districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for the Louisiana officials and legislators told the federal appeals court that racism has waned, and with it the power of the 15th Amendment, which gives Congress the right to pass laws that protect the enfranchisement of people of color. It is clear that vote dilution claims in Louisiana are no longer justified by current conditions and so are no longer constitutional, said Louisiana Assistant Solicitor General Morgan Brungard, using data the U.S. Justice Department called gerrymandered statistics. Louisiana, and many other right-wing litigants, are clinging to a line from Justice Brett Kavanaugh in his concurrence in a major 2023 voting rights case, where the Supreme Court delivered a surprise ruling upholding the VRA. Even if Congress in 1982 could constitutionally authorize race-based redistricting under Section 2 for some period of time, the authority to conduct race-based redistricting cannot extend indefinitely into the future, he wrote then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana pointed to the line as evidence that the future has come, and Section 2, the part of the law under which illegal gerrymandering cases are brought, is no longer required or constitutional. Theyre relying on basically two sentences of Justice Kavanaughs concurring opinion in Milligan Justice Kavanaugh, of course, joined the section of the opinion that upheld Section 2s constitutionality, DOJs Noah Bokat-Lindell shrugged in response Tuesday. He added that subjecting laws to continuous updating at the risk of forced sunsetting would likely infringe on the separation of powers, and hand Congress an impossible burden given the thousands of local jurisdictions that are subject to Section 2 lawsuits. This part of the VRA, he argued, will sunset itself; when racial discrimination in voting is truly extinguished, plaintiffs wont be able to meet the standards to bring a vote dilution lawsuit in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Roberts Court has been consistently hostile to the VRA, allowing gerrymandering and strict voting restrictions to proliferate. Their ideological allies, recognizing their opportunity, are testing increasingly novel ways to weaken the law, in the hopes that theyll make their way up to the high court. That extends even to gambits that federal courts have recently rejected, including the claim that only the U.S. attorney general and not private citizens can sue under Section 2 of the VRA. While Louisiana reluctantly acknowledged that the 5th Circuit was bound by precedent finding that private citizens can sue under Section 2, it urged the judges to write in the opposite anyway, to significantly aid the state of the law, potential en banc review, and the Supreme Courts review. Luxembourg's Prime Minister Luc Frieden on Tuesday said he hopes German elections on February 23 will provide a "stable government." Speaking at a party meeting of Bavaria's conservative Christian Social Union (CSU), Frieden said the next German administration should learn "lessons" from recent instability under Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition. A coherent, stable policy in Germany is in the interests of neighbouring countries and Europe as a whole, the centre-right prime minister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And that is why we very much hope that the election results will lead to a stable government in Germany," he added. Frieden said he does not want to interfere in the German election, nor in the current coalition debate in Austria, where the far-right Freedom Party of Austria is set for negotiations to form a governing coalition with the conservative Austrian People's Party. However, Frieden said he considers "coalitions with far-right parties in Europe to be dangerous, because this can lead to a weakening of democracy in the medium and long term." The 51-year-old warned that in order to strengthen democracy, countries need strong parties from the political centre, and not the extremes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I am firmly convinced, as the head of government of a stable majority in a democracy, that democracy will not be strengthened if extreme parties gain success," said Frieden. "On the contrary. It may look democratic at first, but as history has taught us, it usually ends with less democracy, fewer rights and less freedom," he added. Luxembourg's Prime Minister Luc Frieden on Tuesday said he hopes German elections on February 23 will provide a "stable government." Speaking at a party meeting of Bavaria's conservative Christian Social Union (CSU), Frieden said the next German administration should learn "lessons" from recent instability under Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition. A coherent, stable policy in Germany is in the interests of neighbouring countries and Europe as a whole, the centre-right prime minister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And that is why we very much hope that the election results will lead to a stable government in Germany," he added. Frieden said he does not want to interfere in the German election, nor in the current coalition debate in Austria, where the far-right Freedom Party of Austria is set for negotiations to form a governing coalition with the conservative Austrian People's Party. However, Frieden said he considers "coalitions with far-right parties in Europe to be dangerous, because this can lead to a weakening of democracy in the medium and long term." The 51-year-old warned that in order to strengthen democracy, countries need strong parties from the political centre, and not the extremes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I am firmly convinced, as the head of government of a stable majority in a democracy, that democracy will not be strengthened if extreme parties gain success," said Frieden. "On the contrary. It may look democratic at first, but as history has taught us, it usually ends with less democracy, fewer rights and less freedom." The Luxembourgish prime minister was also critical of tech billionaire Elon Musk's recent interventions in the German election campaign in favour of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Germans know what is best for their own future and do not need recommendations from outsiders, Frieden said. "And certainly not from people who have no mandate, no political mandate in other democracies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frieden also favours a strong partnership with the United States under President-elect Donald Trump. However, he said that Europe must talk to the future president on an equal footing, by becoming more competitive again, investing more defence and security and taking a more coordinated approach to all of this than in the past. LYNN, Mass. (WWLP) A man from Lynn pleaded guilty in federal court on Monday to drug charges after using an apartment for packaging and distribution of illicit drugs. Jansyel Hernandez, 22, was charged with one count of possession of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Hernandez was charged in May 2023 alongside Juan Ramos, who pleaded guilty in October 2023 and was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison. Ringleader of armed bank robbery on Marthas Vineyard sentenced to prison Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April 2023, a Lynn apartment was discovered to be rented under a false name, and further investigation proved that the tenant was nonexistent. Detectives obtained a search warrant and discovered that Hernandez and Ramos were using the apartment as a drug hub. Both suspects fled the apartment through the balcony when they were discovered, and Ramos was seen wearing a court-ordered GPS bracelet from a domestic violence offense. Records of the GPS bracelet reviewed at a later date showed that Ramos was a frequent visitor to the apartment. Upon searching the apartment, officers found approximately 1200 grams of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, as well as 30 pounds of cutting agent and other equipment used in drug distribution and packaging. They also found a .38 caliber Taurus revolver, a .40 caliber Glock pistol, and 200 more grams of fentanyl in Ramos vehicle. Based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines, the charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. Hernandez is scheduled for sentencing on April 17, 2025. 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. African governments have criticized a speech by French President Emmanuel Macron in which he said that some leaders showed ingratitude for the deployment of his nations troops in the Sahel region in battling Islamist extremism. Macron told French ambassadors at a conference in Paris on Monday that Sahel nations beset by civil conflicts and violent extremism only remained sovereign because of the deployment of French forces. Macron also dismissed the notion that French troops had been expelled from the Sahel, an area that sits just below the Sahara Desert, as Paris influence on its former colonies wanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had a security relationship. It was in two folds: One was our commitment against terrorism since 2013. I think someone forgot to say thank you. It does not matter, it will come with time, Macron said at the conference. Ingratitude, I am well placed to know, is a disease not transmissible to man. Macrons comments were denounced by Chads foreign affairs minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, who accused the French leader of showing a contemptuous attitude towards Africa and Africans. The French leader blamed the exit of his countrys forces from the region on successive coups. We left because there were coups detat. We were there at the request of sovereign states that had asked France to come. From the moment there were coups detat, and when people said our priority is no longer the fight against terrorism France no longer had a place there because we are not the auxiliaries of putschists. So, we left. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, French troops have withdrawn from Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali following coups in the West African nations where anti-French sentiment has become rife. They are also preparing their exit from Chad, Ivory Coast and Senegal. French forces similarly left the Central African Republic in 2022 after deploying there in 2013 following a coup that sparked a civil war. None of them would be a sovereign country today if the French army had not deployed in the region, Macron said, adding: My heart goes out to all our soldiers who sometimes gave their lives and fought for years. We did well. Koulamallah said in a statement that, France has never endowed the Chadian army in a significant way nor contributed to its structural development. The Chadian minister added: In 60 years of existence, marked by civil wars, rebellions and prolonged political instability, French contribution has often been limited to its own strategic interests, with no real lasting impact on the development of the Chadian people. Chad announced in November it was ending its defense cooperation with France to reassert its sovereignty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Macron insisted in his address on Monday that Frances influence was not in decline in Africa but that the nation was only reorganizing itself on the continent. His stance was rejected by Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko who explained in a statement Monday that Senegals decision to close all foreign military bases, including those of the French, stems from its sole will, as a free, independent and sovereign country, adding there were no discussions or negotiations with the French. Let us note that France has neither the capacity nor the legitimacy to ensure Africas security and sovereignty, Sonko stated. Activists in Africa were also outraged over Macrons comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Macrons statement that African leaders should be grateful for Frances military interventions, claiming that West Africas sovereignty owes its existence to the French army, reeks of revisionism and intellectual dishonesty and moral bankruptcy, Togolese writer and social activist Farida Bemba Nabourema wrote in a lengthy post on X. This paternalistic rhetoric, which infantilizes African nations as incapable of self-governance, is deeply rooted in the racism that justified colonization in the first place and continues to nourish neo-colonialism today, Nabourema added. Sahel aligns with Russia Russian military support has become an increasingly sought-after alternative by some Sahel nations who have moved on from their former Western partners. Junta-led Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso have since signed military partnerships with Moscow, receiving contingents of Russian military instructors from the shadowy mercenary group, Wagner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wagner forces have also reportedly arrived in Equatorial Guinea where they are tasked with protecting its authoritarian leader President Teodoro Obiang, mirroring the activities of the Russian mercenaries in the neighboring Central African Republic where they have evolved into the dominant foreign force. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Its no secret that the Obama administration tried to close the Guantanamo Bay prison a goal that used to enjoy bipartisan support and it likely wouldve succeeded, were it not for congressional restrictions. It was against this backdrop that the Biden administration announced plans in February 2021 to pick up where the last Democratic team left off. As the incumbent president prepares to exit the White House, the administration has fallen short of its goal of shutting down the detention facility once and for all, but its had great success shrinking the prisons population to lows unseen in decades. NBC News reported: The Pentagon said Monday it had transferred 11 Yemeni men to Oman this week after holding them for more than two decades without charge at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The transfer was the latest and biggest push by the Biden administration in its final weeks to clear Guantanamo of the last remaining detainees there who were never charged with a crime. The prison population at Guantanamo now stands at just 15 people the fewest since 2002. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats more, that total might yet drop further: The Wall Street Journal reported, The Biden administration is negotiating with the Taliban to exchange Americans detained in Afghanistan for at least one high-profile prisoner alleged to be an Osama bin Laden associate held in Guantanamo Bay. (The report, which sites an unspecified number of anonymous attendees at a classified House Foreign Affairs committee briefing, has not been independently verified by MSNBC or NBC News.) Revisiting our recent coverage, the prisons population peaked in 2003 with 680 prisoners. The Bush/Cheney administration began moving detainees out during its second term, and by the time Barack Obama became president, the population was down to 242 prisoners. In 2009 and 2010, Congress made it effectively impossible for the Democrat to close the facility altogether, but Obama nevertheless successfully lowered the number of people at the facility from 242 to 41. As president, I have tried to close Guantanamo, Obama said in a letter to congressional leaders on his last full day in office. When I inherited this challenge, it was widely recognized that the facility which many around the world continue to condemn needed to close. Unfortunately, what had previously been bipartisan support for closure suddenly became a partisan issue. Despite those politics, we have made progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The point of the progress, obviously, was to reduce the overall population, but it was also intended to appeal to Republicans sense of fiscal sanity: The smaller the number of detainees, the harder it becomes to justify the massive expense of keeping open a detention facility that houses so few people. Even if congressional Republicans are inclined to ignore every other consideration, the hope has long been that GOP lawmakers would at least care about wasteful spending: It costs American taxpayers roughly $13 million per prisoner, per year. As of today, the facility holds just 15 inmates, down from 40 at the end of Donald Trumps first term. The cost of keeping the prison open for such a small group of inmates is tough to justify. In fact, The New York Times' Peter Baker noted, "Gitmo now has 800 troops and civilian contractors for a facility holding just 15 prisoners 53 guards and other staff members for every detainee." Indeed, its not uncommon for Republicans to talk with great enthusiasm about the need to cut unnecessary and wasteful government spending. Its ostensibly the point of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency led in part by GOP mega-donor Elon Musk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, if the party is serious about such a goal, perhaps it can prove it by agreeing to close this exceedingly expensive detention facility? This post updates our related earlier coverage. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Todays edition of quick hits. * That this happened on the anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack seems oddly appropriate: A federal judge has found Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court after he repeatedly disregarded orders to turn over assets to two former Georgia election workers who won a defamation lawsuit against him in 2022. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman also agreed to impose sanctions, which he said he will decide on later. * Offshore drilling: 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 Americas Atlantic and Pacific coasts, the Gulf of Mexico and Alaskas Bering Sea from environmental and economic risks and harms, the White House said in a statement announcing the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * The process on Capitol Hill couldnt have been more straightforward, in great contrast to the last time: Congress on Monday formally certified President-elect Donald Trumps 2024 victory, exactly four years after he stirred up a mob that attacked the Capitol in a failed attempt to disrupt the certification of his 2020 election loss and keep him in power. Vice President Kamala Harris oversaw the certification of her defeat, which went smoothly and without drama amid a citywide snow emergency declaration. * Biden wont be in office much longer, but hes still signing good bills into law: President Joe Biden on Sunday signed the Social Security Fairness Act into law, clearing the way for nearly 3 million public workers including teachers, firefighters and police to see an increase to their Social Security benefits. * Another provocative missile test: North 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. * Two weeks away: Multiple people charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol have sought permission to travel to Washington to attend President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration and their requests have yielded mixed results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * The Washington Post really didnt need another round of drama, but it appears to have found some anyway: A Washington Post cartoonist has quit her role at the paper, saying that her bosses blocked publication of a satirical cartoon that depicted billionaires, including one resembling Post owner Jeff Bezos, kneeling before President-elect Donald Trump. See you tomorrow. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A variety of U.S. officials responded to the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6 attack in very different ways, though Donald Trump took the opportunity to publish a poorly timed message to his social media platform. It read in its entirety: Biden is doing everything possible to make the TRANSITION as difficult as 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. Fear not, these Orders will all be terminated shortly, and we will become a Nation of Common Sense and Strength. MAGA!!! There was no shortage of bizarre errors of fact and judgment in the missive. President Joe Biden, for example, is not engaged in any prosecutorial abuses. The retiring Democrat has protected millions of acres of coastline from offshore oil and gas drilling, but (a) thats not the Green New Deal; (b) this isnt a scam; and (c) the climate crisis isnt a hoax, no matter how many times Trump claims otherwise. But it was that first part of the online complaint that stood out as especially notable: Biden, his successor whined, is making the presidential transition process difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The obvious problem with the claim is the overwhelming evidence pointing in the opposite direction: The Democrat welcomed Trump to the White House after Election Day, for example, despite the fact that Trump did not extend the same courtesy after the 2020 race. Biden also vowed to attend his successors inaugural ceremony, which the Republican also refused to do. Whats more, throughout the federal government, the retiring incumbent has pursued a policy of cooperation and collaboration, ensuring a smooth handoff from one administration to the next. Yes, Biden continues to govern and pursue his policy priorities, but thats because and this is important hes still the president and he can issue White House decrees as he deems appropriate. This isnt evidence of an outgoing leader creating a difficult transition process; this is evidence of an outgoing leader acting on the policy agenda he was elected to implement. Even Susie Wiles, the incoming White House chief of staff, has offered praise for her Democratic counterparts as she prepares to begin work in the West Wing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But even if we put all of that aside, it takes galactic amounts of chutzpah for Trump, of all people, to whine about Biden making the presidential transition process difficult. As the Republican probably ought to remember, during the last presidential transition process, he refused to accept the election results, lied uncontrollably about his defeat, pursued a scheme to claim illegitimate power, provoked an insurrectionist riot, and became the first president in American history to deny the nation a peaceful transfer of power. If Trump wants to see a president responsible for a difficult transition process, he shouldnt look at Biden; he should look in a mirror. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com The Wall Street Journal first reported in August 2019, and NBC News soon after confirmed, that Donald Trump had held multiple discussions about the prospects of the United States buying Greenland. Miles Taylor, a former Department of Homeland Security chief of staff who became a fierce Trump critic, later told MSNBC that in 2018, the then-president even explored the possibility of swapping Greenland for Puerto Rico. Nothing ever came of this, though the Republicans interest angered U.S. allies abroad and sparked a brief international incident. After Trumps 2020 defeat, the Biden administration assured everyone that the U.S. was not actually trying to acquire Greenland at least, not anymore and the whole matter quietly went away, relegated to the lengthy list of Trumps strange White House pursuits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is, until two weeks ago, when the president-elect brought it back to the fore for reasons that still arent altogether clear. Three days before Christmas, Trump used his social media platform to declare, 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. A few days later, he referenced Greenland again in a Christmas Day message, claiming that the islands people want the U.S. to be there. Evidently, hes still at it. NBC News reported: Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that his eldest son will visit Greenland amid increased calls by the president-elect that the U.S. should control the autonomous territory owned by Denmark. I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA, Trump wrote on his social media platform. My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. Right off the bat, its worth appreciating the fact that when the incoming president uses the phrase, I am hearing that..., it generally refers to odd ideas that Trump simply made up out of whole cloth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats more, there was no real reason for the Republican to let the world know that one of his adult sons plans to go sight-seeing in Greenland, except for the larger context related to the president-elects apparent intention to try to purchase the island. Indeed, after noting Trump Jr.s travel plans, the president-elect 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. Note, according to Robert OBrien, Trumps former White House national security advisor, Greenland should be presented with a choice: Either the U.S. could be paid to protect the island militarily, or the island could become part of the U.S. itself. Evidently, the president-elect prefers the latter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A couple of weeks ago, the islands Prime Minister Mute Egede said in a written statement, Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. Trump, by all appearances, is reluctant to take no for an answer. A Politico report noted, Trumps renewed focus on Greenland is being met with exasperation and eye rolls from several current and former U.S. national security officials. Some point out that the island isnt for sale and talks of acquiring the territory could just alienate Greenlanders and Danes from deeper cooperation with the U.S., which has a military base there. The same report quoted Jim Townsend, a former senior Pentagon official who worked on NATO and arctic defense policy, saying, Pissing everybody off by saying were just going to buy them outright really bruises our bilateral relationship with the Danes and more importantly ruins any kind of way for us to work this out with Greenlanders. Its going to be a long four years. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Donald Trump's anti-immigrant agenda, from mass deportations to ending birthright citizenship, has drawn the ire of opponents in the U.S. and abroad, and spans from the religious sphere to the tech industry. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong talks with Rachel Maddow about why immigrants are intrinsic to the United States of America, and his intention to make sure the Constitution doesn't fall victim to Trump's demagoguery. Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country. * Its only been nine weeks since Election Day 2024, but in Virginia, its Election Day again in three state legislative districts. Voters in the commonwealth will decide one House of Delegates race and two state Senate races. * On the heels of her 18-point victory in the fall, Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand made no secret of interest in becoming the next chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. This week, party leaders announced that the New York senator would, in fact, lead the DSCC in the 2026 midterm cycle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Following a lengthy career on Capitol Hill, Rep. Barbara Lee gave up her House seat for an ill-fated U.S. Senate race. Now, however, the California Democrat appears to have her eyes on a different office: Lee has filed the paperwork to run for mayor of Oakland. * In Texas, Republican Sen. John Cornyn generally isnt seen as a vulnerable incumbent ahead of his 2026 re-election bid, but he might yet have a GOP primary rival to worry about: The Lone Star States highly controversial attorney general, Ken Paxton, continues to talk openly about a possible Senate campaign against the incumbent. * Voters in Alabama havent elected a Democratic governor since 1998. Is there a chance that former Sen. Doug Jones, who lost a re-election bid in 2020, might try to break the GOP lock on the office? According to local party officials, the Democrat hasnt ruled it out. * In Massachusetts, incumbent Democratic Sen. Ed Markey recently announced that hes running again in 2026, and theres been some chatter about former Gov. Charlie Baker taking on the incumbent. That said, a spokesperson for Bakers current employer, the NCAA, said the Republican former governor is not running for any political office and is solely focused on the future of college sports. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com The moment some readers see the words rules package and Congress, theyre likely to click away, but dont move on just yet, because the new rules approved by House Republicans are likely to matter in the near future. The basic idea of a rules package is to establish instructions that will dictate how the chamber operates over the course of the 119th Congress. Most of the time, theres little reason for those outside of Capitol Hill to care, but around this time two years ago, then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy desperate to lock up far-right support for his leadership post made all kinds of costly concessions, most of which were included in the GOPs rules package. At the top of the list: The California Republican agreed to change the threshold for a motion to vacate to just one member, which meant in practical terms that any individual GOP member could try to launch an effort to oust McCarthy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nine months into his tenure, McCarthy faced just such a revolt from a faction of his own Republican conference at which point McCarthy became the first speaker in American history to be kicked out of office mid-term. All of which served as a timely reminder: Rules packages can matter. Its against this backdrop that Politico reported late last week on GOP lawmakers approving a new set of rules, which included one big change. The narrowly divided House has adopted a rules package, with a vote of 215-209, that most notably will see a significantly raised threshold for members to trigger an effort to oust the speaker. Under the section-by-section analysis of the rules, it would now take nine members of the Republican conference to trigger a motion to vacate the speakership, a threshold that was just a single member when the GOP opted to oust then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy last Congress. There were, to be sure, a variety of other procedural changes measures on the suspension calendar can now only receive votes on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, for example and some proposals, including one related to members and which bathrooms they can use, were left on the cutting room floor. But the one Speaker Mike Johnson probably cares about most is the one that will make it easier for him to keep his gavel, at least for the next two years: If some of his own party want to remove him from his leadership position, theyll need at least nine GOP members to participate in the intraparty revolt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why nine? House Republicans didnt say, although for context the total number of GOP members who took away McCarthys gavel was eight. In practical terms, it wouldnt be easy for Johnsons GOP critics to pull together such a contingent only three House Republicans opposed the speakers bid for a second term, and two of them ended up changing their minds but some in the party wasted no time in reminding their colleagues of the possibility, anyway. Republican Rep. Eric Burlison of Missouri, for example, warned that if the speaker again tried to get Democratic votes to fund the government or pass other major legislation, he will immediately be motion to vacated. Around the same time, Republican Rep. Chip Roy of Texas said he had inflexible expectations about Congress cutting federal spending in the coming months. [I]t better damn well happen, Roy told Politico. Asked what would happen if it doesnt, the Texan said, Use your imagination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, Johnson was elected to a second term as speaker on Jan. 3, and by Jan. 4, some House Republicans were already floating public threats in his direction. Watch this space. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com UPDATE (Jan. 7, 2025, 1:44 p.m. ET): A New York appellate judge on Tuesday denied Donald Trump's motion to delay his sentencing in his hush money case, which is scheduled for Friday. In the wake of Judge Juan Merchans decision last week to preserve the New York hush money indictment and jury verdict against President-elect Donald Trump, my phone blew up with breathless questions like, Will you be at the sentencing? and Do you think hell show? Not so fast, I told my family and friends. Merchans opinion, as well as Trumps choice in appellate maneuvers, suggest to me a former litigator and close observer of Trumps hush money trial that a Jan. 10 sentencing is no sure thing. Merchan wrote like hes running out of time First, its not at all clear to me that Merchan actually expects to hold a sentencing hearing on Jan. 10 or at any other time. What makes me say this? His own opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, given that Merchan wrote that his inclination is to not impose any sentence of incarceration and instead, to consider a sentence of unconditional discharge, which is legal speak for no penalty at all, as the most viable solution, you might be asking why Merchan would even schedule a sentencing. And there are likely a few reasons, including that a sentence is necessary in virtually all circumstances both to preserve a jury verdict and to enable a defendant to exercise his appellate rights. On Friday on Alex Wagner Tonight, I posed a third possibility: that Merchan, knowing that even the Manhattan district attorneys team no longer sees jail time as practicable given Trumps countdown to becoming the 47th president, at least wanted to ensure that Trump, like any other convicted defendant, would have to stand before a court of law and listen to its strong, humbling description of his conduct. But thats when MSNBC legal analyst Kristy Greenberg, a former Manhattan-based federal prosecutor of many years, observed that sections of the opinion themselves sound like what judges say at sentencing proceedings. For example, rejecting Trumps argument that the crimes for which he was convicted are comparably not so grave, Merchan castigated Trump for the premeditated and continuous deception that underlie his conviction on 34 counts of falsification of business records with the intent to defraud, including an intent to commit or conceal a conspiracy to promote a presidential election by unlawful means. Throughout the opinion, Merchan also bemoans Trumps lack of remorse, noting his unrelenting and unsubstantiated attacks against the integrity and legitimacy of this process, individual prosecutors, witnesses and the Rule of Law and observing that Trump has, on multiple occasions, pursu[ed] a claim with increasing indignation while simultaneously failing to acknowledge that this Courts rulings on those subjects have been repeatedly upheld. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do those words read as if Merchan understood, when calibrating his opinion, that because of Trumps expected appellate efforts, this could be his last public statement in Trumps case? They sure do. Whats surprising about Trumps appellate strategy Speaking of Trumps anticipated appeals, on Sunday he asked Merchan to stay all remaining proceedings e.g., the sentencing hearing in light of his intent to appeal on Merchans recent holdings. But the notice of stay filing underscores that while Trump himself is often predictable, his lawyers are not. Many legal observers present company included thought Trump would turn immediately to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit (aka the federal appeals court for New York) for relief. After all, he already has a related appeal pending in that court. But after waiting all weekend for a federal filing, we learned instead that Trumps team has two state court rabbits up their sleeve: a direct appeal of Merchans post-verdict decisions to retain the verdict and indictment, and whats known as an Article 78 proceeding, a New York-specific process through which government actors can be sued directly for deprivations of a litigants constitutional rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Does Trump genuinely believe hell fare better in Blue York appeals courts than he would before the 2nd Circuit, which, just a week ago, affirmed E. Jean Carrolls first trial victory against him? On one hand, hed be foolish to do so; Merchans Jan. 3 opinion, for example, noted that the narrow gag order in the hush money case has been upheld no fewer than eight times between the two New York state appeals courts with jurisdiction. But focusing on who ultimately wins or loses ignores the bigger issue here: delay. All Trump needs is one or more judges of the Appellate Division, First Department the applicable first-tier appeals court to press pause on the sentencing until 12:01 p.m. on Jan. 20, when Trump becomes president once more. Thats also when, by virtue of taking the oath and for the duration of his term in office, Trump will again have immunity from any and all prosecutions and related proceedings. And where temporary stays are concerned, the First Department hasnt always been a disappointment for Trump. On the contrary, it has come through for Trump on a handful of occasions, including by granting a two-week stay of a gag order in another case, thereby freeing Trump to speak freely about the alleged bias of the judge in that case and his law clerk. Now imagine how a two-week stay of the sentencing in this case would serve Trumps objectives even more clearly: Pausing the sentencing for two weeks would mean that Trump, who will again become president on Jan. 20 at 12:01 p.m., could not be sentenced, if at all, until Jan. 20, 2029, when he is no longer president. Trump and his lawyers asked Merchan to tell them by 2 p.m. ET on Monday whether he intends to go forward with sentencing; otherwise, they vowed to seek an emergency appellate review. Indeed, by Monday evening, Merchan had denied their stay request, finding Trumps arguments to be primarily a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past. And Trumps team had filed his Article 78 action, which accuses Merchan and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg of serious and continuing infringement on his Presidential immunity from criminal process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given this, Im expecting a flurry of activity in New York appeals courts this week and that none of it will end in a sentencing. Watch this space. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com CHICAGO (WGN) Jurors returned to the courtroom Monday after an 18-day holiday break to hear defense attorneys make their case in former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigans federal corruption trial. On Monday, various defense witnesses testified about what they said were well-established protocols for preventing conflicts of interest in Madigans ward office and political organization. A 2018 phone call initiated by co-defendant Michael McClain was the focus for defense lawyers. PREVIOUS: McClains defense team rests; Madigans counsel now presenting their case Defense attorneys also called former Speaker of the House legal counsel Justin Cox to the stand to discuss a possible conflict of interest in a then-upcoming May 2018 vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So I would be aware if there was a potential conflict, Cox testified. And we would flag that and make sure the Speaker would not vote on a bill there may be a conflict on. David Ellis, Madigans former counsel, was called to testify about how the then-Illinois House Speaker used his political power to support labor interests and working families. The testimony bolstered the central defense argument that Madigan and McClain served their constituents, carefully avoiding ethical issues. However, defense lawyers are working to overcome a mountain of evidence, including hundreds of secretly recorded phone calls and videos played for jurors. Late Monday, there was fierce debate over how much money Madigan made through his private law firm. Defense lawyers argue that the figure is irrelevant and prejudicial. The judge could soon make a decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines More delays are imminent in what was supposed to be a three-month trial. Court sessions will be paused on Thursday for a National Day of Mourning for the late President Jimmy Carter, and there will be no court on Friday. Despite the delays, closing arguments in what many pundits call a blockbuster trial could be underway as early as next week. The 82-year-old Madigan and his longtime political advisor, 77-year-old McClain of downstate Quincy, are both charged in a 23-count criminal bribery and corruption indictment. Both men have continuously denied any wrongdoing. 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. Mark Zuckerberg seems eager to join the ranks of MAGA nation, but some of Donald Trumps most ardent supporters arent ready to embrace the Meta owner with open arms. In the latest signal that he is cozying up to the incoming president, Zuckerberg announced on Tuesday that he is axing the Facebooks fact-checking program, replacing it with a community notes system that mirrors that of X, Trump ally Elon Musks social media network. Mark Zuckergberg isnt quite being embraced by MAGA nation. / Evelyn Hockstein / Reuters However, given Zuckerbergs previous support for liberal politiciansand the fact that Facebook banned Trump for two years amid his efforts to overturn the 2020 electionsome MAGA faithful are skeptical of ordaining Zuckerberg as the next first buddy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicole Shanahan, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s former running mate who has emerged as a MAGA media star, remarked on the interesting timing of Zuckerbergs switch-up. Interesting timing. Four years after censoring a sitting president, Zuck suddenly announces these reformsright after the same man he banned from his platform gets re-elected by the people. What about the thousands who were censored and humiliated for speaking truth to power? https://t.co/3rhnMxVSS5 Nicole Shanahan (@NicoleShanahan) January 7, 2025 Four years after censoring a sitting president, Zuck suddenly announces these reformsright after the same man he banned from his platform gets re-elected by the people, Shanahan wrote in an X post. What about the thousands who were censored and humiliated for speaking truth to power? Where does that leave them? The axe forgets, but the tree remembers. Zuckerbergs Tuesday announcement also revealed that Facebooks moderation team would be moving from California to Texas, where theres less concern about the bias of our teams. Conspiracy theorist and MAGA media personality Laura Loomer has largely spent the past two weeks raging against Musk after she was stripped of her blue check mark on X. But on Tuesday she turned her criticism to the Meta CEO. Stop groveling to tech billionaires. Zuckerberg hasnt provided any evidence at all that he has changed. Every Trump supporter who was banned is still banned. Im still banned on Facebook and Instagram and they never apologized to me for banning my CONGRESSIONAL CAMPAIGN Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) January 7, 2025 Stop groveling to tech billionaires, she wrote on X. Zuckerberg hasnt provided any evidence at all that he has changed. Every Trump supporter who was banned is still banned. Im still banned on Facebook and Instagram and they never apologized to me for banning my CONGRESSIONAL CAMPAIGN from having social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talk is cheap, she added. I wont be cheering till I see real change, apologies and accountability. User @JamesMa41250108 was in agreement with Loomer, writing on X, Zuck is a liar. Facebook took down damn near every post I made about Kamala being a horrible candidate in the 24 election. Until now, the scrapped Meta fact-checking program had used third-party moderators certified by the International Fact-Checking Network to flag posts that were determined to be misinformation, according to Metas site. However, only posts that violated the platforms community guidelines, such as hate speech, were removed. Zuckerberg said on Tuesday that the changes to Facebook were intended to promote free expression, but Tom Vail, a MAGA former candidate who ran for Floridas state house, was unequivocal that Zuckerbergs newfound dedication to free speech could not be trusted. Musk has made multiple moves that seem intended to ingratiate himself to the president-elect. / Jeff Bottari / Zuffa LLC via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is LYING, Vail wrote on X. I expect him to change (superficially, at least), but not by much. Im SURE he is driven by his desire for money and power, both now and in the future. Free Speech is a talking point which is good for business in the CURRENT environment. While Musk emerged as a Trump ally during the lead-up to the election in November, it is only since Trumps victory that Zuckerberg has seemed to follow suit. Last month, the Facebook founder joined fellow tech titan Jeff Bezos of Amazon in pledging $1 million to Trumps inauguration. Zuckerberg also announced on Monday that he would add UFC CEO Dana Whitea longtime friend of Trumpsto Metas board of directors. The husband of a Nebraska senator raised some eyebrowsincluding Kamala Harriswhen he refused to shake the vice presidents hand during his wifes swearing-in. Bruce Fischer held the Bible while his wife Republican Sen. Deb Fischer recited the oath. Fischer gestured for her husband to move closer to the vice president, but he seemed reluctant. Its okay, I wont bite, Harris said. Nebraska Senator Deb Fischers husband just completely ignored Kamala and her attempted handshake pic.twitter.com/PJjwSwKaaa Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) January 6, 2025 Afterwards, when Harris extended her hand to shake, the senators husband was holding the Bible in one hand and a cane in the other. But even when Fischer took the Bible, her husband put his free hand in his pocket instead and said, thank you, with a stoic expression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vice president then raised her eyebrows and turned towards the camera to take a photo. MAGA supporters were quick to defend the senators husband. He has a cane in one hand and the Bible in the other... which one did she expect him to drop? one commenter said. Others were happy to think that he left Harris hanging on purpose. One user called him legendary while another said, good for him. She looks so insulted. And Im here for it, a comment read. Some thought that whether or not the swerve was an accident or a snub, it was unprofessional. Hes old. And if it was on purpose, hes rude, a commenter wrote. Im conservative, and even I can acknowledge this is a tough day for Kamala, and shes doing her job gracefully. Fischers office did not immediately respond to the Daily Beasts request for comment. Members of the MAGAworld have defended a Nebraska senators husband for brazenly snubbing Kamala Harris when he refused to shake the vice presidents hand. Republican Deb Fischers husband, Bruce Fischer, was by her side while she was sworn into her third term in the US Senate by Harris on January 3. But when the vice president congratulated them both and extended her hand, Fischers husband, who was holding a bible in his left hand and a cane with his right, briefly glanced up at Harris and muttered, thank you. The senator took the bible from him, freeing up his left hand but instead, he put it in his pocket and continued to look down. Harris raised her eyebrows and shook off the snub with an uncomfortable smile as the group posed for an awkward photo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video of the snub has gone viral with people noting the snub and Harriss reaction to being left hanging. Now, some on the far-right have come to Bruce Fischers defense and offered a raft of excuses. Which hand do you want him to shake with? One person said in a post on X. The in [sic] one holding the book or the one holding his cane? Members of the right are defending the Nebraska senator after his snub of Kamala Harriss handshake went viral. Here and awkward picture shared by Republican Senator Deb Fischer after the moment (Senator Deb Fischer) Isnt he holding a cane in the [sic] she tried to shake? another reasoned. Some claimed Harris was in the wrong for extending her hand in the first place. Bruce Fischer, husband of Republican Senator Deb Fischer, walks with a cane, the person said on X. It was insensitive of VP Harris to offer him her right hand when it was clear that he has a disability. Harris congratulates the couple and extends her hand to Bruce Fischer, the husband of Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer at her swearing in (CSPAN) Bruce Fischer briefly muttered thank you and looked down as Harris retracted her hand (CSPAN) Another said Harris was stupid for attempting to shake his hand. Bruce Fischer, 73, is holding a Bible in one hand & a cane in his other, they commented. Harris stupidly requests he shake her hand anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just to set the record straight, Bruce Fischer, husband of Sen Deb Fischer, was holding the Bible in his left hand & using a cane to support himself that he had in his right hand, another said. Thats why he couldnt shake Kamalas hand. Others praised the senators husband for swerving Harriss handshake. Bravo and standing ovation to your husband!!! one said. Harris raised her eyebrows and smiled following the awkward moment (CSPAN) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please give your husband a huge hug from the American people!! We appreciate his actions, another added. The group Republicans Against Trump shared the clip of the video and branded Fischers husband classless. GOP Senator Deb Fischers husband, Bruce, refuses to shake Vice President Kamala Harriss hand after her swearing-in. Truly classless, they said in a post on X. Others agreed with the sentiment, with one person adding that he had zero class. No surprise that VP Kamala Harris handled his snub with dignity. Thats who she is, the person wrote on X. Fischer shared photos from the swearing in ceremony on her official X account while sharing a message of standing together. Together we will continue to stand tall for our shared values and take care of our people, she wrote. We will protect this nation. We will build a stronger Nebraska. And we will secure that brighter future for our children and grandchildren. ACCRA, Ghana (AP) John Mahama was sworn in as president of Ghana for a third time Tuesday against the backdrop of the countrys worst economic crisis in a generation. Thousands of Ghanaians from all walks of life attended the ceremony in the capital. Mahama, the opposition leader who started his political career as the communications minister, won the presidential election late last year after pledging to tackle the economic crisis, corruption and unemployment. Mahama, 66, who was previously Ghana's president between July 2012 and January 2017, will replace current President Nana Akufo-Addo. Mahama was first sworn in as president when President John Evans Atta Mills died in July 2012. He served the rest of that term and then won an election in 2012. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mahama promised to reset the country on various fronts during a campaign that prioritized the economy and largely appealed to young Ghanaians who saw the vote as a way out of the countrys economic crisis. There is a seismic shift happening within the system of global economic dominance, he said Tuesday in his address at the Independence Square in Accra. Now more than ever before, we need to strengthen our ties with our neighbors to ensure that we are working together to keep our sub-region safe. The ceremony was attended by several African leaders, including Rwanda's Paul Kagame, Kenya's William Ruto, Congo's Felix Tshisekedi and Burkina Faso's Capt. Ibrahim Traore. In his address, Mahama said he will focus on economic restoration and stabilization of the macroeconomic environment, as well as on good governance and the fight against corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election in December for both president and members of parliament was held against the backdrop of the countrys worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation and was seen as a litmus test for democracy in a region shaken by extremist violence and coups. West Africas regional bloc of ECOWAS said the election was generally peaceful, a continuing trend in Ghana. Andrew Takyi, founder of a local fintech company, Zee Pay, told The Associated Press: l am hopeful that President Mahama will use the 24-hour economy he campaigned on to improve the country. He can use that to widen the tax base of small and medium enterprises to improve revenue. Innocent Appiah, a senior media research officer at the Precious Minerals Marketing Company, said he expects the Mahama administration to prioritize transparency and accountability in the extractive industry, ensuring that the PMMC plays a more effective role in regulating and monitoring the sector. I anticipate policies that promote value addition, local content development and community engagement, ultimately leading to increased revenue generation and socio-economic benefits for Ghanaians, he said. Enyonam Agble, a trader attending the inauguration, said: There was so much corruption under President Akufo-Addo and all we want is the recovery of all that had been stolen to rebuild the country. Jan. 6Maine Supreme Judicial Court Justice Catherine Connors is pushing back against a judicial ethics committee recommendation that she be disciplined for failing to recuse herself from two recent foreclosure cases despite possible conflicts of interest. The cases weakened protections for homeowners struggling to make mortgage payments. Before she was on the high court, Connors represented banking interests in related cases. Connors maintains she had no conflicts of interest and said the allegations could allow questions of recusal to be "weaponized," according to a response filed by her attorney, James Bowie, late last month. Bowie also insists the decision about whether to sanction Connors should be left to the state supreme court, not a separate panel of judges as recommended by the ethics committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Committee on Judicial Conduct last month recommended Connors be publicly reprimanded, the lowest level sanction. The committee cited statements Connors made during her 2020 confirmation hearing that she would "err on the side of recusal" in foreclosure appeal cases as evidence that she should have recused. The committee requested that her reprimand include language stating that judicial candidates "are to be candid at confirmation hearings" and that "representations by them at those hearings are to be honored." The next steps are uncharted territory in Maine. The complaint against Connors, filed in January 2024 by Yarmouth foreclosure attorney Thomas A. Cox, is the first complaint concerning a state supreme court justice to be forwarded from the committee to the court, let alone to receive a recommendation for discipline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maine, it's up to the Supreme Judicial Court to decide the outcome of judicial disciplinary cases, but the committee also recommended the case be considered by either a panel of Maine Superior Court judges or out-of-state judges, rather than by Connors' peers on the state supreme court. Connors, however, believes the case should be heard by her colleagues. "The committee seeks not only a reprimand in this matter, but also direction from the Court as to what is required of judicial candidates at confirmation hearings. These novel and important questions of policy that will provide guidance to judicial officers serving throughout the state must be addressed by the Maine Supreme Judicial Court," Bowie wrote in the response. "Those issues should not be delegated, particularly in the absence of any statutory or rule-based authority for doing so, to some other ad hoc grouping of inferior judicial officers, and certainly not to an ad hoc committee of judicial officers from jurisdictions other than Maine." In the two foreclosure cases in question Finch v. U.S. Bank, N.A. and J.P. Morgan Chase Acquisition Corp. v. Camille J. Moulton the Maine Supreme Judicial Court ruled 4-3 in favor of banks, with Connors in the majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cases overturned precedent established in a series of 2017 cases Pushard v. Bank of America and Federal National Mortgage Association v. Deschaine that protected homeowners by deeming mortgages unenforceable if lenders failed to meet the requirements for notices of default. Connors, a former attorney, filed an amicus brief on behalf of the Maine Bankers Association in the Deschaine case and represented Bank of America in the Purshard case. After hearing the oral arguments of the Finch appeal, Connors reached out to the Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics and asked if she should recuse herself from the Finch and Moulton cases. The ethics committee said she did not have to because she did not represent the plaintiffs in either case. In the response, Connors' attorney argued that classifying her history of representing banking interests as a conflict of interest "runs the risk that litigants will seek to weaponize recusal by using judge's prior legal advocacy as a base for disqualification." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also, Bowie said, defeats the purpose of nominating judges based on their experience or expertise. "It would be anomalous for such experience to qualify a person to be on the bench and then at the same time disqualify the person from hearing such issues as a judge," he said. Copy the Story Link Jan. 6Maine lawmakers are poised to add some guardrails around vague placeholder bills, but they aren't ready to abandon the practice, which has been criticized by legislators and the public for eroding transparency in state government. A record number of so-called concept drafts were submitted in the previous session of the Legislature. Such bills often contain scant details about the bill's purpose other than a vague title, though some concept drafts come with more detailed descriptions. The practice makes it difficult for the public, advocates and even lawmakers to track down information about a bill before a public hearing or work session. The Legislature's Rules Committee cast a nonbinding 9-1 vote on Monday to require details of concept drafts to be posted online at least two days before a public hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the bill language is not posted online within that time frame, the bill would die in committee under the proposed rule change offered by House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, D-Biddeford. Bills exempt from the requirement include the governor's budget, model legislation or interstate compacts. The change did not go far enough for some Republicans, including Sen. Rick Bennett of Oxford, who has criticized the practice in recent years. "I don't see any reason for concept drafts" besides the budget, Bennett said. "The Legislature lived for decades without them. They're a relatively new construct." An analysis by the Press Herald last spring found that lawmakers offered a record number of concept bills in the last session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers submitted about 250 concept bills last session, a 25% increase from the previous one and a fourfold increase from the roughly 60 concept bills submitted about 20 years ago. About 11% of all bills introduced in the previous Legislature were concept bills, compared to 5% of the bills introduced in the 2015-16 Legislature. Members of the previous Legislature acknowledged the problem last year. A group met over the summer to collect ideas about possible rule changes, but could only issue recommendations for the incoming Legislature, which sets its own rules. Democrats, who control both chambers, supported adding some guardrails to concept drafts, while defending their necessity for issues that arise during the session or for ambitious legislation that takes time to craft. Legislative staff raised concerns about complying with the proposed rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danielle Fox, the director of the Office of Policy and Legal Analysis, which analyzes bills and works with individual committees on legislative proposals, said her staff's workflow is built around paper correspondence and information for lawmakers, and the online system only uploads documents drafted by the revisor's office and reviewed and voted on by the committee. Increasing the amount of information posted online, including staff analyses, which are often produced minutes before a work session, would increase staff workload, she said. "It's not a click of the button." Fox said. Revisor of Statutes Edward Charbonneau, whose office drafts bill language for lawmakers, said he is concerned that the proposed deadline for details two days before a hearing could actually lead to an increase in the number of concept drafts. Fecteau, however, didn't share that concern, saying that the new rules would introduce new risks for lawmakers who rely on concept drafts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't think this is suddenly the gold rush to submitting concept drafts. I think the opposite will occur. This will give people pause," Fecteau said. "You risk not having your language submitted in time and having a committee move into work session and kill your bill." The committee, which deferred action on other proposed rule changes, including late-night committee votes, will meet again Thursday afternoon to vote on a formal amendment to the rules, which would be sent to the full Legislature for approval. Legislative rules can be amended with a majority vote before Jan. 17 but would need a supermajority of two-thirds after that. Copy the Story Link Jan. 6Federal investigators say a Biddeford man paid a person to buy guns for him in exchange for drugs and cash, then sold the weapons to known drug dealers and gang members in Massachusetts. Dustin Fontaine, 28, was arrested Friday during a raid at 16 Clifford St. in Biddeford. He is charged with one count of conspiracy to violate federal firearms laws, a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Homeland Security Special Agent David Fife began investigating the "substantial" firearms straw purchasing conspiracy after U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Kentucky intercepted an international shipment destined for a second man from Old Orchard Beach who is prohibited from possessing guns. The package from Hong Kong contained what investigators believed to be two machine gun conversion devices, according to a court affidavit filed by Fife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When agents in Maine searched the man's house in Old Orchard Beach, they found numerous guns and about 20 empty pistol boxes that did not match any of the firearms found in the house. While reviewing the man's phone, Fife found a series of text messages with Fontaine "in which he organized gun purchases, gun sales and narcotics transactions, in some cases all within the same thread," Fife wrote. Fife said in court documents that the text messages show the two men and another individual a cooperating defendant who is facing charges but not identified in court records conspired to obtain guns through straw purchases and then sell them to people out of state. A straw purchase is when someone who is not legally allowed to purchase or own a gun has someone else buy it for them. According to court records, Fontaine is a felon who is also not allowed to purchase firearms. In August 2023, Fontaine and the Old Orchard Beach man discussed with the cooperating defendant the guns they needed that person to buy the next day "to fulfill an 'order' for an out-of-state gang associate" who would soon be traveling to Maine, according to court records. Fife said Fontaine, who is also known as Dizzy, wrote in text messages that the person buying the guns was paid with cash and drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records obtained by agents from Kittery Trading Post showed multiple pistols had been sold to the cooperating defendant from January to August 2023, all of which matched screenshots Fontaine had sent of the guns he wanted purchased, according to court records. The cooperating defendant told agents that they were reluctant to start buying weapons but agreed to do it after being offered drugs and money. They usually received $100 in cash and some crack cocaine for each weapon, and they purchased between two and five guns at a time. They estimated they purchased around 100 guns for Fontaine, according to court records. Fontaine eventually told the cooperating defendant that the guns were being sold out of state. The cooperating defendant told agents that Fontaine and the Old Orchard Beach man "were in an equal partnership with their drug and gun trafficking enterprise," Fife wrote in the affidavit. A message requesting an interview with Fontaine's attorney was not immediately returned Monday afternoon. Fontaine made his initial appearance in court on Jan. 3. A detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday. Copy the Story Link TOPEKA (KSNT) A Kansas Republican has introduced legislation ahead of the 2025 session to make changes to how the state recognizes daylight saving time. 27 News checked documents submitted for the 2025 session of the Kansas Legislature which show a pre-filed bill that, if accepted in its current form, would make it so the state no longer has to recognize daylight saving time. However, the bill also includes language that would require a move to permanent daylight saving time following an act of Congress. Republican Senator Kenny Titus introduced this most recent push to change the controversial daylight saving time to the legislature ahead of the first day of session in 2025. It is recognized as Senate Bill 1 on the Legislatures website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Derek Schmidt takes oath of office as new Congressional representative of Kansas Senate Bill 1 would take effect after 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2 this year if passed successfully, according to the bills language. Approval of the bill would exempt Kansas from observing daylight saving time under provisions set at the federal level. However, if an act of Congress establishes permanent daylight saving time, the bill requires the Kansas secretary of state to adopt central daylight saving time. Notice of this action will be published in the Kansas Register after the law goes into effect. Kansas is not alone with trying to make changes to daylight saving time. Multiple other states have introduced legislation recently to end the practice, with few finding success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas state offices to close for Day of Mourning, heres when Kansans have witnessed many occasions over the past decade involving legislators attempting to make changes to daylight saving time in the state. Republicans such as Senator Ty Masterson pushed for an exemption in 2016 while a separate push for getting rid of daylight saving time in 2019. A bill in 2022, which later died in committee, would have made daylight saving time permanent in Kansas. Arizona and Hawaii are the only states in the U.S. that do not currently recognize daylight saving time and instead keep standard time year-round. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed interest in doing away with daylight saving time when he returns to the White House in January 2025. Kansans, like many other Americans, observe daylight saving time each year by losing an hour in the spring and gaining an hour in the fall. The practice was officially approved by Congress in 1918 with the Standard Time Act that was later signed by then-President Woodrow Wilson into law. The Uniform Time Act of 1966 established a system of uniform daylight saving time throughout the nation, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auditors release findings after allegations, death of state employee For more Capitol Bureau news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) A major grower said this week it was abandoning its citrus growing operations, reflecting the headwinds Florida's signature crops are facing following a series of hurricanes and tree diseases. Alico Inc. announced Monday that it planned to wind down its citrus operations after the current crop is harvested later this year. About 3,400 citrus acres (1,376 hectares) will be managed by third-party caretakers for another season through 2026. The Fort Myers-based company owns 53,371 acres (21,598.5 hectares) across eight counties in Florida and 48,700 acres (19,708 hectares) of oil, gas and mineral rights in the state. About a quarter of its land holdings will now be slotted for potentially developing commercial or residential projects in the near and long term future, the company said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company said its citrus production had declined by 73% over the past decade. The impact of Hurricanes Irma in 2017,Ian in 2022 and Milton in 2024 on trees already weakened from years of citrus greening disease "has led Alico to conclude that growing citrus is no longer economically viable for us in Florida, said John Kiernan, Alicos president and CEO. Alico expected to reduce its workforce by up to 172 employees and has notified juice producer Tropicana about its decision, according to a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing. Floridas citrus production has been declining for the past two decades because of citrus disease and some growers have been looking for alternative uses of their land. Last month, agriculture officials said Florida's orange production forecast for the 2024-2025 season had dropped 20% from the previous one in October, reflecting damage from Hurricane Milton. If the 12 million-box prediction holds, it will be 33% less than last seasons final production. ___ Follow Mike Schneider on the social platform X: @MikeSchneiderAP. CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) A man is facing multiple charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. The Charleston County Sheriffs Office and members of the South Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received a cyber tip regarding more than 30 images and/or videos that were uploaded to a Verizon Cloud account that depicted children in various states of nudity or engaging in sexual activity. Children in the images appeared to be aged 6-8 in several examples provided in affidavits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A search warrant was obtained and conducted on the account. Dwayne Jabree Sumter, 31, was identified as the suspect who downloaded the images/videos, according to the sheriffs office. He was arrested by US Marshals on Monday on 10 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree. He was denied bond during a Tuesday morning hearing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. LEDYARD, Conn. (WPRI) A Pawtucket man accused of stealing a Providence police cruiser and taking it on a joyride down I-95 South over the weekend is slated to face a judge in Connecticut on Tuesday. Jared Remson, 27, has been charged with first-degree larceny, reckless driving, engaging police in a pursuit, failing to drive in a proper lane, and interfering with an officer. Remson allegedly stole the cruiser, which was parked outside Rhode Island Hospital, early Saturday morning, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer was inside the hospital when the theft occurred, police said. Its unclear whether the cruiser was unlocked or left running when Remson got into the drivers seat, but police confirmed he was not being detained at the time. The circumstances surrounding this incident are being thoroughly reviewed, and the nature of the disciplinary action is still being determined, the Providence Police Department said in a statement to 12 News. Connecticut State Police troopers spotted the cruiser crossing the state line on I-95 South approximately an hour after it was reported stolen. Troopers chased the cruiser off the highway and into Groton, where Remson turned onto Route 117. The chase down Route 117 surpassed 100 mph at times, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said Ledyard officers successfully deployed stop sticks near where Route 117 intersects with Route 2A. Remson was arrested after the cruiser slowed to a stop on Route 2A near Hope Fuller Road. Remson will remain in custody until his arraignment Tuesday after failing to post his $50,000 cash bond. This is not the first time Remson has had a brush with the law. Court records indicate that he was arrested last year after he got into an argument with his mother and vandalized her vehicle. He then broke a light fixture at the Pawtucket Police Department. A Rhode Island judge revoked his bail in that case just hours after the high-speed chase ended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More recently, Remson was taken into custody in Barrington on active warrants after yelling at voters at the polls on Election Day. 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. (KRON) The man accused of shooting and killing his wife on I-580 in 2023 was formally charged by the Alameda County District Attorneys Office on Monday. Antioch PD investigating Monday morning homicide The criminal complaint alleges that Nathaniel McCowan, 49, murdered his wife on the eastbound shoulder of I-580 near the Edwards Avenue offramp on Feb. 26, 2023. He was arrested last Thursday by officers from the California Highway Patrol Oakland division and other law enforcement agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Alameda County D.A., prosecutors charged McCowan with one count of murder, one count of corporal injury to a relationship partner, and one count of possession with a firearm by a felon with priors all felonies. The D.A. confirmed the charges also include a special allegation 2-strikes (one prior) for a previous conviction. It is believed that McCowan is not eligible for probation. The D.A. said McCowan faces up to 56 years to life in prison, if convicted and sentenced of all charges. He is scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Jonathan Allen NEW YORK (Reuters) -The man accused of killing a woman sleeping on a New York City subway car by setting her on fire after what prosecutors say was a night of heavy drinking pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and arson at a court hearing on Tuesday. A grand jury has indicted Sebastian Zapeta, 33, of one count of first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree murder and one count of first-degree arson in the first degree for the killing of Debrina Kawam, 57. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After his arrest, Zapeta told detectives that he often drinks heavily to the point of blacking out, and that he had done so just before Kawam was killed, according to a court filing by prosecutors on Tuesday. Crime remains relatively rare on the city's subway, one of the oldest and largest transit systems in the world, but the New York Police Department acknowledged this week that attacks like Kawam's violent killing can terrify New Yorkers. Many were horrified by a brief video of Kawam engulfed in flames near the open doors of a train car, recorded by a bystander on the platform. According to the police account, Zapeta used a lighter to ignite the clothes of Kawam, who appeared to be sleeping on a seat in a stationary F train car at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station at about 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then used a shirt to fan the fire, the police complaint said. Kawam was pronounced dead at the scene after the fire was extinguished. The city's medical examiner said the cause of death was smoke inhalation and thermal injuries. It took more than a week to identify her using fingerprint analysis. Zapeta is a Guatemalan citizen, federal officials have said, who has been living in a homeless shelter in Brooklyn and working as a roofer in the neighboring borough of Queens, according to the New York Police Department. When police detectives showed Zapeta video of Kawam being set on fire, he told them that it was him in the video, but he did not recognize Kawam nor remembered it happening, according to the court filing by the Brooklyn district attorney's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Oh, damn, that's me," he said as he watched the video in the police interview, which was translated from Spanish in the court filing. "I really don't remember." He said he was "very sorry" for Kawam. He said he had been drinking beers since the evening before, and recalled waking up on the F train. "Sometimes when I drink and erase the memory and I don't know," he said. "When I wake up, I'm already in the house already sleeping. I wake up when I'm already at home. Or there are times when I wake up and I'm already at the train station, or on the train." He was arraigned in the Kings Supreme Court in Brooklyn in brief hearing before Judge Danny Chun on Tuesday morning, appearing in orange jail clothes with his hands cuffed behind his back and his public defender and a Spanish interpreter at his side. His next court hearing is set for March 12, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kawam was from Toms River, a coastal town in New Jersey, and, like Zapeta, had also spent time in the city's homeless shelter system, according to Mayor Eric Adams. About 4 million trips are taken each weekday on the city's subway, where serious crime, predominantly thefts, declined for a second year in a row in 2024, down 5.4% from the previous year, the New York Police Department said. Killings have increased, however. As of November, there had been nine homicides reported on the subway in 2024, compared to five in the same period in 2023, according to police data. Last month, a jury acquitted Daniel Penny of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, a homeless former Michael Jackson impersonator, on the city's subway. Neely had been shouting angrily at passengers on a subway train when Penny grabbed him from behind and restrained him in a chokehold for several minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said on Monday she was sending more officers to patrol the subway in response to Kawam's killing and other "terrifying random acts of violence." "Declining crime numbers are significant, but we still must do more, because people don't feel safe in our subways," Tisch said. If convicted on any of the charges, Zapeta faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has said that Zapeta had entered the country unlawfully, and would eventually seek to deport him. (Reporting by Jonathan Allen, Editing by Nick Zieminski) CONEY ISLAND, Brooklyn (PIX11) The man accused of setting a woman on fire on a subway train in Brooklyn is expected back in court on Tuesday. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, is scheduled to be arraigned after he waived the right to his first court appearance last month. He was indicted by a grand jury on four counts of murder and arson. More Local News Prosecutors argued Zapeta intentionally set 57-year-old Debrina Kawam, of New Jersey, on fire on an F train stopped at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station on Dec. 22. Kawam was believed to have been sleeping on the train at the time, according to authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta, originally from Guatemala, entered the U.S. illegally in 2018 and was living in a shelter in East New York, the NYPD said. He told police he was drunk at the time of the crime, according to authorities. Zapeta was also accused of fanning the flames by waving a shirt after the victim caught fire, police said. 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. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A convicted felon is in the Minnehaha County jail, accused of forcing his way into a car full of kids and attempting to steal a police officers taser. 18-year-old arrested in east Sioux Falls shooting Around 8:30 Sunday night, police say 44-year-old Dayzsha Bordeaux was trying to get into cars at the gas station at 6th and Cleveland. Police say he broke one of the car windows with his hand, before following a car into traffic and opening the door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver got out to protect the kids inside. Thats when police say Bordeaux allegedly got into the car with the children. Authorities say there was a struggle and an officer had to use a taser to get Bordeaux out of the car. Bordeaux is on parole for drugs and assault. He appeared in court this afternoon and the judge set bond at $10,000 cash only. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 27-year-old woman is dead, and a 30-year-old man was arrested and extradited from Reeves County to El Paso following a weekend stabbing at a home in East El Paso County near Horizon City, the El Paso County Sheriffs Office (EPCSO) said. Woman dead, man arrested in stabbing in East El Paso County The El Paso County Sheriffs Office is calling it a case of family or domestic violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPCSO said at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 5, deputies responded to a report of family violence occurring at the 600 block of Zinc Place. Upon arrival, deputies noticed the suspect, later identified as Jorge Albert Chavez, 30, leaving the scene in pickup truck. Deputies communicated Chavezs information to assisting law-enforcement agencies, EPCSO said. EPCSO said that at the residence, deputies found Dafne Michelle Davila, 27, stabbed and severely injured. Davila was taken to a local hospital where she died from her injuries, EPCSO said. In a combined effort between the Texas Department of Public Safetys Texas Rangers and the Reeves County Sheriffs Office, authorities located and apprehended Chavez, EPCSO said. In the initial news release issued over the weekend, the Sheriffs Office said he was apprehended along Interstate 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit then extradited Chavez from the Reeves County Sheriffs Office to El Paso where he was subsequently booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility for murder with a $1 million bond. Reeves County is located about 200 miles east of El Paso. This tragedy reminds us of the devastating impact domestic violence has on our community. Thanks to the strong collaboration between our partnering agencies, we were able to quickly locate and apprehend the suspect. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please seek help there are resources available to provide support and safety, Sheriff Oscar Ugarte 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 KTSM 9 News. BERYL, Utah (ABC4) A man is in custody after he reportedly threatened his landlord with a handgun and barricaded himself in his motorhome after being evicted on Sunday, Jan. 5, according to officials. John Gorecki, 65, was arrested and booked for several charges, including aggravated assault, threatening violence, and possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person. According to a press release from the Iron County Sheriffs Office, Gorecki lived in a motorhome on the property of a man who called the police about the alleged threats. The caller said Gorecki owed $100 per month to rent the space, located in Beryl, Utah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspect in death of missing Kearns woman apprehended in Fillmore On Sunday afternoon, after 5 p.m., Gorecki encountered the landlord, and Gorecki appeared disoriented, according to the sheriffs office. The suspect reportedly accused the landlord of stealing Alka-Seltzer and called him a thief, and the landlord denied those claims. The property owner, expressing frustration over the accusations, informed Gorecki that he wished him to vacate the premises, officially evicting him, the sheriffs office said. After being asked to vacate the property, Gorecki allegedly pulled a handgun from his waistband and pointed it at the landlord to threaten him and his girlfriend. Officials said the landlord feared for his life and asked his girlfriend to leave with him, but she declined to vacate with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies arrived at the scene, they surrounded Goreckis motorhome and commanded him to exit for about two hours, but got no response from Gorecki. The Iron Metro SWAT team was deployed to the scene because of Goreckis threats and the presence of a firearm. After breaching the front door and eventually breaking several windows, officials used CS gas and struck Gorecki in the arm with a non-lethal projectile. He was taken to a local hospital for evaluation after he exited the trailer and was taken into custody. Gorecki was transported from the Cedar City Hospital to the Iron County Correctional Facility on the aforementioned charges, in addition to the charges of interfering with a peace officer and failure to obey an officer. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 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 ABC4 Utah. CICERO, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) The Cicero Police Department was called on Saturday Jan. 4 around 1:50 p.m. to the Brewerton Road Walmart following a sex offense investigation. Police were told that around 1 p.m. that day, a Walmart employee went into the front womens bathroom, where she found a man washing his hands. The man, who has been identified as Galindo R. Lopez-Lopez was described to be about five feet tall, with black spiky hair, and dark skin. He was wearing a yellow safety vest, black pants, and it was noted that he was profusely sweating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Walmart employee proceeded into a handicapped stall which is when the suspect walked in behind her, pushed her forward, and locked the stall door. At this time the male proceeded to pull his penis out of the front zipper of his pants and began to signal to the female to keep quiet. The woman attempted to get out of the door but was not allowed to exit the bathroom stall, said Cicero Police. The suspect was also trying to place his body on top of hers as he held her back. She was eventually able to push the man back far enough to get out of the bathroom stall and report the incident. Video showed the suspect leaving the store in a white-colored Ford utility van with a partial Pennslyvania license plate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation was initiated and the Onondaga County Crime Analysis Center was contacted with the vehicle photo and partial license plate. The information was then broadcast to law enforcement in Central New York. A day later the suspects vehicle was stopped by the Syracuse Police Department on an unrelated call. The investigation indicated that the vehicle was also involved in the incident from the previous day. Lopez was arrested and charged with: Sexual Abuse 1st Degree, a class D Felony Unlawful Imprisonment, a class A Misdemeanor Forcible Touching, a class A Misdemeanor Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. A man plans to sue the Phoenix Police Department for over $15 million, claiming he was restrained on hot pavement for more than four minutes, causing burns across his body that left him hospitalized for over a month. Attorneys for Michael Kenyon, 30, filed a notice of claim against the city last week, according to local ABC 15 and The Arizona Republic, saying he plans to file a lawsuit in federal court if the city doesnt soon settle the case for $15.53 million. Michael is 30 years old. At an average life expectancy, he should live another 42 years. That is 15,330 days, Kenyons attorneys wrote in the claim, according to ABC 15. We are confident that not a single one of you would choose to live in Michaels disfigured body and traumatized mind for $1,000 a day and we are confident a jury would agree that this is a modest sum for what the Phoenix Police Department has caused to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CBS News previously reported that Kenyon was walking through a parking lot and talking on his cell phone when police stopped and questioned him last July. Soon after they began questioning Kenyon, four officers pinned him on the asphalt as he pleaded that he could not move and was in pain. Police have not released body cam footage from the incident, despite media requests, but an onlookers cellphone footage showed the incident take place, according to ABC 15. Please please I cant move. I didnt do anything, Kenyon calls out to the officers in the video as theyre forcing him to the ground, according to the outlet. Kenyon has not been charged with a crime related to the incident. ABC 15 reports that Kenyon was taken to a local hospital where he spent more than a month recovering from third-degree burns across his face, arms, chest and legs. The outlet reports that chunks of his flesh are missing from above his knees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phoenix police are demonstrating an utter disregard for human life over and over again, Bobby DiCello, one of Kenyons attorneys, told ABC 15. This young man was burned to the third degree because his skin was cooked on asphalt. Kenyons attorneys said the temperature in Phoenix that day was 114 degrees, estimating the asphalt was somewhere between 180 and 200 degrees, CBS previously reported. 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. Kenyons claim in court last week says that six months after the incident, he is still undergoing physical therapy and undergoing additional surgeries to attempt to restore simple use of his body, according to the Arizona Republic. He is permanently disfigured as a result of your officers actions, Kenyons attorneys wrote in the claim, according to the newspaper. Read the original article on People BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) The Wisconsin State Patrol says deputies were called about a driving complaint against 46-year-old Roland Teetteh of Chicago. He did not stop for deputies and a chase started in Jackson County. Osseo Police and Trempealeau County Sheriffs Deputies eventually used a tire deflation device ending the chase in Trempealeau County. Teetteh was taken into custody and transported to the Jackson County Jail. Charges of 3rd offense OWI, among others, are being recommended. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX2548 & WIProud. ELLSWORTH COUNTY, Kan. (KSNW) A man is dead after helping a semi navigate through a snow-covered parking lot in Ellsworth County. It happened around 1 p.m. on Monday near Kansas Highway 156 and Interstate 70. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the man was assisting the driver of the semi navigate his semi-truck through a snowdrift-covered parking lot when the semi backed over him. Highest snowfall totals from Kansas blizzard Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was identified as 65-year-old Rudolph Martinez from Dodge City. The driver of the semi, a 44-year-old man from Missouri, received no apparent injuries. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 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 KSN-TV. A man is facing several charges after barricading himself in a Hyde Park home and firing a gun. Andres Rivera, 42, of Boston was taken into custody after 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 Boston police. Police said officers responded to the area around 3:34 a.m. for a report of a barricaded suspect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police Rivera fired a gun during the standoff but not an officer. Police said the suspect surrendered to officers after hours of negotiating. There were no reported injuries during the standoff. River is being charged with, armed home invasion, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling, eleven counts of assault with a dangerous weapon (gun), three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon on a person over 60, malicious destruction of property over $1,200, two counts of malicious damage to a motor vehicle, three counts of armed kidnapping, and resist arrest. Rivera will be arraigned in West Roxbury Court on Tuesday. 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 YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) An Austintown man who police say had cocaine, guns and cash when a search warrant was served at his home was sentenced Tuesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to at least four years in prison. Read next: Niles grocery store to close Colby Jacobs, 32, received a sentence of four to five and a half years in prison from Judge Maureen Sweeney following a guilty plea in October to a charge of possession of cocaine, a first-degree felony, and a firearm specification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges were filed following an April 2022 search warrant investigating drug activity at Jacobs West Hampton Drive home following an investigation by the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force. Assistant Prosecutor Parick Fening said investigators found over $22,000 in cash, guns and cocaine. As part of his plea agreement, the money and guns will be forfeited to the authorities. The sentence was recommended by the attorneys in the case and Judge Sweeney upheld their recommendation. Defense attorney Rhys Cartwright-Jones asked Judge Sweeney to abide by the sentencing agreement. Jones said his client was not involved in any violence but got caught up in the money and lifestyle of the drug game. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He fell into the lure of the drug lifestyle, Cartwright-Jones said. Jacobs apologized to his family and the community. I made bad decisions, and I thought at the time they were right, he said. Obviously, they were wrong. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Worcester man was held without bail on Monday on charges stemming from the death of 32-year-old Mitchell Burke, whose body was found in the woods in Hubbardston over the weekend. Ryan Wilcox, 32, stood before a judge in Worcester Central District Court to face charges of armed assault with intent to kill, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon in connection with the death of Burke, also of Worcester. Prosecutors said in court that the date of offense was Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2024. Officers found Burkes body in the woods off Brigham Street in Hubbardston just before 10 a.m. Saturday, the district attorneys office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilcox was held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing on Jan. 14. Anyone with information on Burkes death is urged to contact Massachusetts State Police at 508-832-9124. 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 man is dead and a woman was in custody after he jumped in front of the car she was driving early Sunday in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood, according to police. Chicago police said the man, 32, was arguing with the woman, 36, in the 2600 block of West 60th Street about 4:50 a.m. and refused to get in a car with the woman. As the woman tried to drive away, police said the man jumped in front of the vehicle. The man was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn with abdominal injuries and died shortly before 10 a.m. Sunday, according to the Cook County medical examiners office. The man, a Gary resident whose identity wasnt publicly released Monday, died about 9:50 a.m. Sunday, according to the medical examiners office. An autopsy conducted Monday ruled his death a homicide due to multiple injuries. Police said they arrested the woman and that area detectives were investigating. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) One of three men charged with tampering with evidence in an East Side murder case has pleaded guilty. Daniel Ramsey, 42, entered his plea Monday before Judge R. Scott Krichbaum in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court. Sentencing will be March 4. The charge is a third-degree felony. Ramsey faces charges for his role in the Oct. 18 death of Reynaldo Hernandez, 24. Hernandez was found about 6:50 a.m. at a cemetery at Wardle Avenue and Liberty Road. Police believe he was shot the night before at a home on Bott Street. Investigators have not yet said how Hernandez ended up where he was found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andre Bailey, 40, was charged with murder for the death of Hernandez and is presently in the Mahoning County Jail on $1 million bond. He has a trial date set for Monday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW YORK -- The man accused of setting a woman on fire on a New York City subway car just before Christmas entered a not guilty plea on Tuesday morning. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, was indicted last month on four counts of murder and one count of arson in the death of 57-year-old Debrina Kawam. Zapeta, who according to court documents lives in a shelter in Brooklyn and does roof and siding work, appeared in a Brooklyn courtroom Tuesday and was arraigned with the help of an interpreter. His next court date was set for March 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocates gathered outside the courthouse and said Kawam's family is overwhelmed, adding her relatives will hold a memorial at 5 p.m. on Jan. 12 at the First Baptist Church of Sheepshead Bay on East 15th Street in Brooklyn. "The family is going through a tough time. They are not known to being in the public eye. They don't like to be in the public eye," said Rev. Kevin McCall, founder of the Crisis Action Center. "She was loved. She was not by herself. Even in that moment, she may have looked by herself, but there is a family who mourns her loss, who loved her," Pastor Sharmaine Byrd added. Debrina Kawam burned to death on NYC subway Prosecutors say Sebastian Zapeta intentionally lit Debrina Kawam on fire while she was sleeping on board an F train at the Coney island-Stillwell Avenue station on December 22, 2024. / Credit: Community handout Prosecutors say Zapeta intentionally lit Kawam on fire while she was sleeping on board an F train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station on Dec. 22. Authorities say he fanned the flames with a shirt before sitting on a platform bench and watching her burn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kawam was a native of Toms River, New Jersey who was homeless at the time. Court documents reveal that during questioning Zapeta identified himself in the surveillance videos and photos, but claimed he could not remember what happened. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez called the crime a malicious deed and said the charges Zapeta now faces are "significant," with murder in the first degree carrying the possibility of life without parole. "It is difficult to fathom what could lead someone to commit the atrocious and horrific murder with which this defendant is charged," the DA said in a statement Tuesday. "My office swiftly obtained an indictment, and we are determined to exact the most severe punishment for this heinous and inhumane act. Ms. Kawam and her loved ones deserve a measure of justice and New Yorkers deserve to feel safe in the subways." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local leaders say subway riders, including the city's most vulnerable residents, must be protected. "We are calling for change in the city, so these acts will not happen," McCall said. "It was on the subway system, which many of us in New York use, so it's scary. It's traumatizing and things have to be done," Byrd said. According to immigration officials, Zapeta entered the United States illegally from Guatemala in 2018. He was deported and then re-entered the country again. Court documents show he has a wife and children back home. "This is somebody that needed some type of support, but didn't get it. He belongs in jail," McCall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NYPD sending more officers to subway platforms and cars In the wake of several recent subway attacks, including a passenger being pushed in front of a train in Chelsea and several transit stabbings, the NYPD is adding more patrols underground. New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced Monday that major crime in transit is down more than 5%, but they acknowledged many people still don't feel safe. "Effective this week, I directed that we moved more than 200 officers onto trains to do specialty train patrols, and I have further directed that we deploy more officers onto subway platforms in the 50 highest-rime stations in the city," Tisch said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commissioner said 78% of subway crime happens on trains and platforms, and that's where the officers will focus. She also praised officers, saying decreases in crime -- on and off the subway -- have happened against all odds. "The deck has been completely stacked against our cops, and there's one glaring issue -- surging recidivism," she said. "Imagine how disheartening it is for our cops to be out there arresting the same people for the same crimes in the same neighborhoods day after day, and imagine how scary it is for New Yorkers to see the same person who victimized them one day walking the streets the next." Last week, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also announced plans for new legislation in the executive budget to change the state's involuntary commitment standards when it comes to people experiencing mental illness in the subway system. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Wildfire surrounds Palisades Charter High School in Southern California as winds fuel flames BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) Police are seeking in help in locating a man who was last seen in central Bakersfield Saturday, according to Bakersfield police. Officials say, Adrean Ayala, 36, was last seen around noon near the intersection of 17th and Myrtle streets. Hes considered to be at-risk due to unspecified medical conditions. Scrivner child support hearing postponed to February The department said Ayala is 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighs between 140 to 150 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. Photo provided by courtesy of the Bakersfield Police Department. Ayala was last seen wearing a dark blue T-shirt, green undershirt, grey sweatpants and black sandals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call BPD at 661-327-7111. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHRISTIAN COUNTY, Mo. A man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison today for multiple charges including murder and kidnapping. judge announces guilty charge on man accused in aurora womans death Courtesy of the Christian County Jail According to court documents, Steven Calverley was sentenced to 30 years for first-degree murder and 10 years for first-degree assault. He was also sentenced to 10 years for four counts of armed criminal action and 15 years for robbery and kidnapping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The murder and assault charges are to be served consecutively while the rest of the counts are to be served concurrently, resulting in 40 years. Calverley is the last of nine people accused in the death of 27-year-old Sarah Pasco who was forced into a Lawrence County well before being killed in 2020. Prosecutors say the Aurora woman was one of two forced to get into a well where they were shot. Pasco was shot in the head and died instantly. The other woman, who was also shot, hid under Pascos body and played dead until the man who shot her and another suspect left. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. LISBON, Ohio (WKBN) A Columbiana man was sentenced on Monday on charges regarding the illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material. Samual J. Lalley, 32, was sentenced to two years in prison and he has to register as a Tier I sex offender. In November, Lalley pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony, and two amended charges of illegal use of a minor or impaired person in nudity-oriented material, fifth-degree felonies. The other charges against him were nullified by the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lalley was originally indicted in April on charges of tampering with evidence and five counts of pandering obscenity involving a minor or impaired person. The indictment said in December 2023, Lalley had material with a minor as one of its participants and that he tried to destroy, conceal, or remove the evidence. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Authorities have identified the man killed in a hotel parking lot shooting on New Years Eve as a 28-year-old from Texas. Malik-Devon Terrance Lee Henson was found dead just before 5:45 p.m. in the Sumner Neighborhood near 8200 NE Sandy Boulevard, according to Portland police. PHOTOS: New luxury hotel proposed for Oregon Coast property with $3 million view A medical examiner later determined that he had died of homicide by gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Tuesday, Jan. 7, no arrests have been made. Police said any suspects had left the scene before officers arrived. Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Portland Police 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 KOIN.com. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) A suspect was arrested on Monday in Greensboro after a fatal shooting, according to a Greensboro Police Department news release. Around 9:23 a.m., Greensboro police, Greensboro firefighters and Guilford County EMS responded to West Vandalia Road when they were called about a stabbing and gunshot wound. Greensboro police investigating 3 homicides since start of new year Arrival officials found Darius Deshaud Goolsby, 25, in the breezeway with injuries consistent with a gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries where he died. Next of kin have been notified. Detectives and Forensic Investigators responded. A suspect was identified as Jalen Xavier Burch, 25, who was later arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection to the death of Goolsby. This is the citys fourth homicide of 2025. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Greensboro/Guilford Crime Stoppers at (336) 373-1000. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) The man accused of kidnapping a woman at a Walmart parking lot and raping her was granted two motions for mental evaluations on Monday, Jan. 6. Marco Morales, 20 Courtesy: Benton County Sheriffs Office Marco Morales, 20, is alleged to have entered a womans car on Nov. 11 with a gun at a Walmart parking lot in Bentonville. An affidavit states that she was forced to drive to a different parking lot and was allegedly sexually assaulted. Morales is facing felony charges of rape, first-degree terroristic threatening and aggravated assault. His attorney filed a mental evaluation for fitness to proceed and criminal responsibility on Jan. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ MORE: Benton County man arrested in reported kidnapping, assault at Walmart Judge Robin Green granted the motion putting an immediate stop to future proceedings. Morales has 60 days to have an examination. The evaluation could lead to Morales being deemed unfit to stand trial due to incompetence. He could also be found not guilty by reason of insanity. What is a Mental Evaluation for Fitness to Proceed? A person facing charges can have any party or the court file a motion that needs to be granted by the judge to allow an examination of the defendants mental condition. In Arkansas, when the subject is granted an evaluation, any further proceedings are immediately stopped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to state law, an examination must be directed by one or more qualified psychiatrists or qualified psychologists. Six Fort Smith officers fired after investigation found hazing and misconduct State law says examiners do not give an opinion on criminal responsibility but will have information about the alleged offense. If the defendant does not have proof of a mental disease or defect, they cannot be found not guilty for those reasons. What is a Motion Evaluation for Criminal Responsibility? A motion evaluation for criminal responsibility will allow a party to use the defense of mental disease or defect after a mental evaluation is done. Criminal responsibility is used to determine a persons mental state at the time of the offense. It considers whether or not a person had the intent to commit the crime, knowledge of right and wrong, and a diagnosis of mental disease and defect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas uses the American Law Institutes test that states A person is not responsible for criminal conduct if at the time of such conduct as a result of mental disease or defect he lacks substantial capacity either to appreciate the criminality of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of the law. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. GALLATIN, Tenn. (WKRN) A man wanted for attempted murder was detained on Monday after a months-long search, according to the Gallatin Police Department. Authorities said 43-year-old Joshua Robb was wanted on a warrant for attempted second-degree homicide. Sumner County Sheriffs Office records show that Robb is also charged with aggravated assault, parole violation, failure to appear and violating an order of protection. Man arrested in connection with shots fired at Lebanon Walmart Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GPD, U.S. Marshals Service and the Portland Police Department coordinated to locate Robb and successfully took him into custody on Jan. 6. There has been an ongoing search for Robb since Nov. 18, 2024, and Gallatin police previously stated that he was considered armed and dangerous. Joshua Robb (Gallatin Police Department) Read todays top stories on wkrn.com In a statement on Monday, the GPD said, Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of all agencies involved, Robb was successfully apprehended today. We are currently interviewing Robb in connection with this case as part of our ongoing investigation. Gallatin Police Department Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Gallatin Police Department at 615-452-1313. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Update: 8:00 p.m. The Sheriff tells News 4, the Lighthorse Police Department and Oklahoma Highway patrol arrested the suspect during a traffic stop in Ada Monday evening. ORIGINAL STORY GARVIN COUNTY, OKLA (KFOR) The search continues for a man in Garvin County whos accused of raping a teen. The sheriffs office said its not the first time hes had a run-in with the law. Were chasing him again on some very serious, serious allegations, said Jim Mullett, the Garvin County Sheriff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man wanted out of Garvin County for rape and child sexual abuse The newly filed court papers accuse Garet Lyn White of raping a minor. The affidavit said a victim came forward last year. Were looking at rape, first-degree lewd, lewd acts, felony possession of a firearm after a felony conviction or violation of Oklahoma Computers Crimes Act, said Sheriff Mullett. Court papers explain White texted the victim and asked if they were ready to love on him. The papers also detail the alleged rape happened multiple times over the past year and a half. Sheriff Mullett believes they have more than enough evidence to start a case. A detective in the case said theyve been working on getting interviews and evidence for a while. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have to review those more than once to make sure that the information that we heard was right and just talking to family members around that to kind of get together everything, said Michelle Keith, a detective at the Garvin County Sheriffs Office. One arrested in connection to deadly Edmond home invasion Its almost overwhelmingthe evidence that we have, said Sheriff Mullett. Whites latest case isnt his first run-in with the law. His past crimes include burglary and larceny. He went to prison. And I believe that he got out in 2014, said Sheriff Mullett. The sheriffs office expanded the search for White. We have turned this over to other agencies to help us. And that would be the Marshals, said Sheriff Mullett. The sheriffs office also warns the public, that White is considered dangerous. If you know where Garet White is, the Garvin County Sheriffs Office wants you to give them a call. Courtesy: Garvin County Sheriffs Office Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) - New York City drivers on Monday had to pay $9 to enter Manhattan under the first such congestion fee in the U.S., which seeks to raise billions for mass transit and reduce traffic jams. The fee went into effect on Sunday after New Jersey failed on Friday to convince a judge to halt it pending an appeal. The city rushed to implement the charge before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Trump, who has a Manhattan residence, opposes the fee and said he would seek to block it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York is imposing the $9 charge on passenger vehicles in the daytime in Manhattan south of 60th Street. Trucks and buses will pay up to $21.60. The fee is reduced by 75% at night. Charged via electronic license plate readers, private cars will pay once a day regardless of how many trips they make. Taxis will pay 75 cents per trip and ride-share vehicles reserved by apps like Uber and Lyft will pay $1.50 per trip. While New York is the first U.S. city to impose such a toll, London implemented one in 2003, and the fee is now 15 pounds ($19). Sarah Kaufman, director of New York University's Rudin Center for Transportation, said Monday that the experience of other world cities shows that the charge initially is very unpopular. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then residents "began to appreciate the reduction in traffic and the increased transit services. So ideally, that's what will happen here in New York," she said. New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority said the program will result in 80,000 fewer cars a day, about an 11% reduction, in what it called the most congested district in the United States. More than 700,000 vehicles enter the Manhattan central business district daily, slowing traffic to around 7 mph (11 kph) on average. That is 23% slower than in 2010. The city estimates the congestion charge will bring in $500 million in its first year. New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the money would underpin $15 billion in debt financing for investment in subways, buses and other mass transit improvements. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) Jan. 6The winter storm hitting the mid-Atlantic Monday is already leading to travel difficulties as airlines cancel flights in anticipation of heavy snowfall. As of early Monday, over a third of scheduled flights into and out of BWI Marshall Airport were canceled while dozens more were delayed, according to FlightAware. The airport warned travelers to confirm flight status before arriving at BWI. Several airlines were encouraging customers to rebook their travel for a later date. Amtrak canceled Acela trains operating between Washington and Boston on Monday. A host of Northeast Regional trains between Washington and New York were also canceled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Maryland Department of Transportation also suspended MARC train service Monday. "Due to increasing snowfall totals forecasted from Winter Storm Blair and the decision to close the Federal Government, MARC Train will suspend all service on all three lines on Monday, January 6. A decision about service on Tuesday will be made Monday evening." Several bus routes were also expected to be out of service on Monday, MDOT said. Baltimore Sun reporter Dan Belson contributed to this article. Originally Published:January 5, 2025 at 11:54 PM EST Tammy Bruce, a former Fox News contributor and Donald Trumps pick for State Department spokesperson, has a history of mocking Sen. Marco Rubio, her likely future boss as nominee for secretary of state, on social media. In posts from December 2015, highlighted Monday by Politico, Bruce used Donald Trumps name for Rubio during that GOP primary season: Little Marco. Making Ted Cruz look even more appealing & confirming Little Marco as the Establishments Hail Mary, Bruce wrote on Dec. 26 in response to an article about then-congressman Trey Gowdy being on the verge of endorsing Rubio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bruce referred to Rubio by that name at least seven more times that day alone. A few weeks prior, Bruce reacted similarly to a story about Rubio labelling Sen. Ted Cruz, another presidential candidate at the time, as an isolationist. Aww, Bruce wrote on X, little Marco is already sounding like his Establishment handlers. On Feb. 6 of the following year, Bruce was critical of Rubios performance during that nights GOP primary debate. Marco trying to insert himself in the NoKo ? to Cruz was weak. Like the kid waving frantically in the back of room trying to prove relevance, she wrote. A few days later, Bruce, who would be the secretary of states conduit to the public, commented, I didnt mute Trump but I had to mute Marco. Aww, little Marco is already sounding like his Establishment handlers... https://t.co/sYCPNYlA8T Tammy Bruce (@HeyTammyBruce) December 13, 2015 When asked about her past statements, Bruce told Politico that it is a pleasure to serve in President Trumps administration and I am thrilled to work with Senator Rubio who has been one of the presidents strongest allies when it comes to the America First agenda. Bruce is the 17th current or former Fox News figure Trump has chosen to serve in his administration. The role doesnt require Senate confirmation. Marjorie Taylor Greene is unsurprisingly feeling empowered by Trumps plan to change the Gulf of Mexicos name to the Gulf of America. Trump floated the idea at a press conference on Tuesday, claiming that the United States already had ownership of the Gulf anyway. Were gonna be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America what a beautiful name. And its appropriate Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country. They can stop them. Greene appeared on popular right-wing commentator Benny Johnsons show on Tuesday to gleefully reaffirm the president-elects goofy idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was so fired up watching the press conference today I directed my leg staff to immediately draft legislation to officially change the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, Green told Johnson. And Congress has to do this. Its absolutely the right thing to do. We change post office names all the time up here. You better bet we are absolutely going to change the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Lets go! This is Trumps latest dream of world domination, as he has mentioned buying Greenland, pitched Canada as the fifty-first state, and raised taking over the Panama Canal. The president-elect isnt the first elected official to try to change the Gulfs name. Former Representative Stephen Holland proposed a bill doing the exact same thing in 2012but as a joke, a commentary on his Republican colleagues prejudice toward Mexico. Trumps version is an oddly cosmetic nod to U.S. hegemony. The odds of Greenes bill surviving remain to be seen. Trump may be able to change the Gulfs name on U.S. reference maps, but getting other countries (like Mexico) to recognize it as such is a separate issue. The name Gulf of Mexico is credited to Baptiste Boazio, who was explorer Francis Drakes illustrator in the 1580s. Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of England, is considering a run to succeed Justin Trudeau and become the prime minister of Canada. Mr Trudeau announced on Monday he would step down after nine years in power, bowing to pressure from inside his party. He said he would stay on as prime minister and head of the Liberals until a new leader was chosen to take the party into the next election, which must be held by late October this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Carney, who is currently chairman of Brookfield Asset Management and has been a long-time adviser to Mr Trudeaus government, said he was mulling entering the race for leadership of the party. Ill be considering this decision closely with my family over the coming days, he said in a statement, 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, previously served as governor of the Canadian central bank from 2008 to 2013 and of the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020. He was branded the architect of Project Fear by Brexit-backers after he warned of the economic impacts of leaving the EU. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Canadian said he had been vindicated after his doom-laden predictions of higher prices, a weaker pound and slower growth. 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. The 59-year-old is highly thought of by Mr Trudeau, who had sought to appoint him to his cabinet. In a post on X, Mr Carney thanked the outgoing prime minister for his leadership and sacrifices, adding: Wishing you the best for your next chapters. Support for Mr Trudeau had waned in recent months amid the cost of living crisis and looming trade war with Donald Trumps administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US president-elect has vowed to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian imports, which could devastate the Canadian economy. Mr Trudeaus fate was sealed by the surprise departure of his finance minister and deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland last month, who clashed with the prime minister over his response to Mr Trumps proposed tariffs. Mr Carney reportedly turned down an offer by Mr Trudeau to replace her. Ms Freeland, a former Financial Times journalist, is thought to be a front-runner to replace Mr Trudeau now. Mr Trump reacted to Mr Trudeaus resignation by reiterating his proposal for Canada to merge with its southern neighbour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Together, what a great nation it would be!!! he wrote on social media. The outgoing Canadian prime minister said the Liberal leadership race would be a robust, nationwide competitive process. When Mr Trudeau won the Liberal leadership in April 2013, the contest lasted five months, while in 2006 it lasted almost eight months. Those tipped to run for leader include Francois-Philippe Champagne, the innovation minister, Anita Anand, the transport minister, Melanie Joly, the foreign minister, as well as Ms Freeland and Mr Carney. Tradition dictates that Mr Carney would need to secure a seat in parliament to take office if he won the party leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative party leader who has consistently led the Liberal party in the polls by 20 points, has dismissed Mr Carney as a continuity candidate, painting him as Trudeau 2.0. He has labelled the former central banker carbon tax Carney in a reference to Mr Trudeaus controversial carbon levy. Conservative party leader Pierre Poilievre has consistently led the Liberal party in the polls by 20 points - Blair Gable Some Liberal politicians have voiced their frustration with Mr Carneys indecision over formally entering politics. After Mr Carney gave a closed-door presentation to Liberal MPs during a retreat last autumn in Nanaimo, BC, Canadas Global News reported that Mississauga MP Iqra Khalid criticised Mr Carney for two years of gaslighting Liberals and flirting through the media about a political future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Khalid allegedly received applause from her Liberal colleagues, while some MPs in the room later described the presentation as underwhelming and boring. Andre Lamoureux, political analyst of the University of Quebec in Montreal, said any incoming leader would be unlikely to rouse enthusiasm around the party. Its a lost cause, he said. Mr Carney received a bachelors degree in Economics from Harvard University in 1988 before earning a masters degree and doctorate in Economics from Oxford University in 1993 and 1995 respectively. After a 13-year career at Goldman Sachs, Mr Carney was appointed deputy governor of the Bank of Canada in 2003, leaving a year later to become senior associate deputy minister of finance in the Canadian government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would later return to the Bank of Canada to take the helm in the wake of the financial crash. Mr Carney served seven years as governor of the Bank of England before becoming chair of Canadian alternative asset manager, Brookfield, which has close to $1 trillion in assets under management. 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) -- Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, said hes considering entering the race to replace Justin Trudeau as Canadas prime minister. Most Read from Bloomberg Listen to the Bloomberg Daybreak Europe podcast on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you listen. Carney said hes encouraged and honored by the support that Ive already been hearing from Liberal lawmakers and supporters who want us to move forward with positive change and a winning economic plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ill be considering this decision closely with my family over the coming few days, Carney, 59, said in a statement emailed by a spokesperson. Trudeau announced Monday that hes stepping down as Liberal Party leader, more than nine years after leading it to power in the 2015 election. Hell officially leave as prime minister after the party chooses a new leader. That new leader will become the countrys 24th prime minister. Read more Canada Tilts Right: Inflation Claims Trudeau as Its Latest Victim The Liberals havent unveiled rules and timelines yet for the leadership contest, but it will need to happen quickly. Canadas parliament is set to return on March 24. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of members of Trudeaus government are also likely to step into the race. Potential candidates include Chrystia Freeland; Dominic LeBlanc, who replaced her as finance minister; Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly; Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson; Anita Anand, the minister responsible to transportation and internal trade; and Christy Clark, the former premier of British Columbia. Any candidate will have to weigh the difficult odds of winning the next election. The Conservative Party leads the Liberals by more than 20 points in some polls, with an election due within months. A new Liberal prime minister will face a confidence vote soon after he or she wins the prize. The three major opposition parties have all said they plan to vote to bring down the government soon after the House of Commons returns in late March, which would trigger an immediate election campaign. Trudeau has said hes attempted for years to recruit Carney to run as a Liberal candidate. The prime minister redoubled those efforts in December, when Trudeau believed he had a commitment from Carney to become finance minister, replacing Freeland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When informed, Freeland decided to resign and criticized Trudeau in a public letter creating a political crisis that eventually led to the prime ministers resignation. Carney did not join Trudeaus cabinet. Carney is the chair of Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. and Bloomberg Inc., among other roles. --With assistance from Laura Dhillon Kane. (Updates with additional information on the leadership race, beginning in the 10th paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A new era is dawning at Meta. CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on Tuesday that third-party fact-checking organizations would no longer have the power to suppress disfavored speech on Facebooka major, positive step toward restoring free expression and robust debate on the platform. In his video announcing the changes, Zuckerberg conceded that moderators working at his social media propertiesFacebook and Instagramfelt pressured after Donald Trump's 2016 win to address mainstream media concerns about the spread of alleged misinformation online. He now believes that their efforts to fix this supposed issue caused more problems than they solved. "After Trump first got elected in 2016, the legacy media wrote nonstop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy," said Zuckerberg. "We tried in good faith to address those concerns without becoming the arbiters of truth, but the fact-checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they've created, especially in the US." Here is the full video from Mark Zuckerberg announcing the end of censorship and misinformation policies. I highly recommend you watch all of it as tonally it is one of the biggest indications of "elections have consequences" I have ever seen pic.twitter.com/aYpkxrTqWe Saagar Enjeti (@esaagar) January 7, 2025 Zuckerberg also detailed plans to scrap the platforms' de-prioritization of political topics and rein in automatic filters, a category of moderation that he says is prone to error. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It means we're going to catch less bad stuff, but we'll also reduce the number of innocent people's posts and accounts that we accidentally take down," he said. These changes are wildly positive. It's also heartening that Zuckerberg seems to understand precisely what had gone wrong, and why: The company made attempts to satisfy both mainstream media institutions and even government agencies, particularly when it came to controversial political topics like COVID-19. What moderators soon discovered is that this is impossible; there is no end to the amount of speech suppression that is desired by censorship-inclined entities. Politicians in both parties dragged Zuckerberg before the U.S. Congress to answer for a vast array of alleged sinsthe end of democracy, the abuse of children, tensions with Russia, and more. What unites legacy media institutions with politically motivated speech hunters in government is growing frustration over their own loss of control with respect to guardrails of acceptable speech. Thanks to social media, these guardrails scarcely exist; by inveighing constantly against Facebook, the old guard hoped to re-install them. This was the theme of my 2021 book, Tech Panic: Why We Shouldn't Fear Facebook and the Future, which attempted to shed light on how bad-faith arguments against the company were providing cover for greater censorship and regulation. At the time, it was a somewhat controversial thesis; even the political right was interested in aggressively regulating Big Tech or breaking up the companies entirely. Four years later, thanks to exposes like Matt Taibbi's Twitter Files and my own Facebook Files, the public is more aware of the role that explicit government pressure played in enacting the regime of censorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This does not mean that tech executives were blameless with respect to the moderation decisions that ensued, but it should mean that public ire is better directed at government bureaucrats who represented the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House. Needless to say, the third-party fact-checking organizations that will lose their clout as a result of Zuckerberg's proposed changes are none too pleased. In a New York Times article about the newswith a characteristically snarky headline "Meta Says Fact-Checkers Were the Problem. Fact-Checkers Rule That False."the Poynter Institute, one of Facebook's official fact-checking organs, protests that Meta and Meta alone had the power to take down content. This is technically true, but the fact-checkers knew exactly what the deal was; Facebook gave them official status as approved verifiers of information and explicitly stated that moderators would remove content consistent with the verifiers' recommendations. Said recommendations were frequently misguided. In December 2021, a fact-checker called Science Feedback flagged something I had written for Reason as "false information." As a result, the article's image was blurred and its distribution was presumably impacted. As Science Feedback later conceded, their fact-check was erroneousmy article was not. The decision was eventually reversed; TV host John Stossel had a similar experience. It is reassuring to hear Zuckerberg acknowledge issues with this form of fact-checking; the CEO said he plans to launch a new system in line with X's Community Notes, a crowd-sourced form of verification that allows all users to weigh-in, more closely mirroring the Wikipedia approach. Even The Times begrudgingly admits that "researchers have found the program can be effective when paired with other moderation strategies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Zuckerberg's video, he concluded by noting that the First Amendment's protections for free speech have enabled the U.S. tech sector to thrive. Contrast that with much of the rest of the world. "Europe has an ever-increasing number of laws, institutionalizing censorship, and making it difficult to build anything innovative there," he said. "Latin American countries have secret courts that can order companies to quietly take things down. China has censored our apps from even working in the country. The only way that we can push back on this global trend is with the support of the US government, and that's why it's been so difficult over the past four years when even the US government has pushed for censorship." This is a key admission. The U.S. is a driver of tech innovation because its government protects free speech. Said protections are imperfect, but they are stronger here than anywhere else. They are worth maintaining, and even strengthening so that the U.S. can continue to be the most prosperous and technologically advanced country in the world. The post Mark Zuckerberg Was Right To Fire Facebook's Rogue Fact-Checkers appeared first on Reason.com. Meta Platforms Inc. is making major changes to its content moderation policies, eliminating its fact-checking program and bringing more political conversations back to feeds on Facebook and Instagram, as part of a bid by CEO Mark Zuckerberg to restore free expression on its platforms. Zuckerberg unveiled the changes in a video early Tuesday morning. More from The Hollywood Reporter In the video, Zuckerberg lamented that amid the debates around the harms from online content, governments and legacy media have pushed to censor more and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship, Zuckerberg added. The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech. So were gonna get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms. That will include the elimination of fact-checking programs in a move to a community notes model, similar to what Elon Musks X uses. And Metas platforms will allow for users to freely discuss topics that previously are subject to restrictions, including discussions around immigration, gender identity and gender, with the company writing in a blog post that its not right that things can be said on TV or the floor of Congress, but not on our platforms. Zuckerberg says that while the decision to add fact checkers was made with good intentions, it backfired. Starting in the U.S. after Trump first got elected in 2016, the legacy media wrote non-stop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy, Zuckerberg said. We tried, in good faith, to address those concerns without becoming the arbiters of truth, but the fact checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than theyve created, especially in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta will also move its trust and safety and content moderation teams out of California, with content review to be based in Texas. As we work to promote free expression, I think that will help us build trust to do this work in places where there is less concern about the bias of our teams, Zuckerberg said. And perhaps most notably, Zuckerberg said that he wants to work directly with President Trump to combat restrictions on social platforms in other countries around the world. Were going to work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more, Zuckerberg said, noting the restrictions Meta faces, including some outright bans in places like China. The only way that we can push back on this global trend is with the support of the U.S. government, and thats why its been so difficult over the past four years, when even the U.S. government has pushed for censorship by going after us and other American companies, it has emboldened other governments to go even further, but now we have the opportunity to restore free expression, and I am excited to take it. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Silicon Valley billionaires are scrambling to get into President-elect Donald Trumps good graces ahead of his inauguration later this month, and no one has embarked on a more blatant boot-licking campaign than Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Meta has already donated $1 million dollars to Trumps inaugural fund, and Zuckerberg flew to Mar-a-Lago to dine with the president-elect and members of his transition team shortly after his victory in November. This week, Zuckerberg escalated his overtures to Trumps incoming administration, announcing the appointment of UFC CEO and MAGA diehard Dana White to the companys board of directors, and releasing a video outlining major changes to Facebooks fact checking policies. On Tuesday, Zuckerberg announced in a video statement that Meta will be ending its fact-checking program in favor of a Community Notes-style approach to digital misinformation in an effort to combat censorship on its platforms. Community Notes, a user-powered fact-checking system implemented on X (formerly Twitter) after billionaire Elon Musk took over the platform, is itself deeply inconsistent and often riddled with misinformation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech, Zuckerberg said. So were gonna get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms. Zuckerberg accused fact checkers of being too politically biased, and having destroyed more trust than theyve created, especially in the U.S. Meta, which boasts more than 3 billion global users across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Whatsapp, has long been criticized for its sloppy content policy enforcement. In March of last year, the company announced that it would deprioritize the recommendation of political content in its algorithms a band-aid solution to the ever present scourge of political misinformation on social media. Zuckerberg added on Tuesday that Meta would get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse, and instead focusing content violation enforcement on removing so called high-severity violations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement came the day after Meta announced Trump-loving UFC honcho Dana White will join the companys board of directors. Ive never been interested in joining a board of directors until I got the offer to join Metas board. I am a huge believer that social media and AI are the future, White said Monday in a statement released by Meta. I am very excited to join this incredible team and to learn more about this business from the inside. There is nothing I love more than building brands, and I look forward to helping take Meta to the next level. The famed fighter has been a central figure in Trumps campaign, who spoke at the 2024 Republican National Convention, and was even handed the microphone by Trump during his election night victory speech. If there were any doubts that the changing policies were meant to appease Trump, who just a few months ago threatened to jail Zuckerberg over accusations of election interference, newly minted Meta Chief of Global Affairs Joel Kaplan lauded the incoming president in an exclusive interview with Fox News on Tuesday morning. Theres no question that there has been a change over the last four years. We saw a lot of societal and political pressure, all in the direction of more content moderation, more censorship, and weve got a real opportunity, Kaplan said. Now, weve got a new administration, and a new president coming in who are big defenders of free expression, and that makes a difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To consider Trump a staunch defender of free speech is to ignore the president-elects well-established pattern of targeting journalists and news networks who criticize him and his administration. Last month, Trump filed a lawsuit against The Des Moines Register and pollster Ann Selzer, who for the first time in more than a decade incorrectly predicted the outcome of Iowas presidential vote. In October, the president-elect kicked off a string of threats to strip broadcasters of their licenses over their critiques of him. During a November rally, held days before the election, Trump even told supporters that he wouldnt mind if members of the media were killed during a hypothetical assassination attempt against him. In his Tuesday interview, Kaplan added that Elon Musk, who now appears to be acting as a kind of unelected co-president, played an incredibly important role in moving the debate and getting people refocused on free expression, and thats been really constructive and productive. In his video statement Zuckerbeg claimed that the new policies would help us build trust to do this work in places where there is less concern about the bias of our teams. Whose trust is Zuckerberg hoping to gain? Well, hell be moving into the White House in a few weeks. 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. Meta is replacing third-party fact-checkers with community notes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. Mark Zuckerberg said Meta would roll out the notes, similar to X's, over the next few months. He added that Meta would bring back more political content to users' timelines. Meta is replacing third-party fact-checkers with a community-notes model on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, announced Tuesday that the company also planned to bring more political content back to the users' timelines and give them the option to customize how much of it they see. The social media company is set to implement the sweeping content-moderation changes over the next few months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "First, we are going to get rid of fact-checkers and replace them with community notes, similar to X, starting in the US," Zuckerberg said in a video message on Meta's blog. Meta's recently appointed chief global-affairs officer, Joel Kaplan, said in the blog: "We've seen this approach work on X where they empower their community to decide when posts are potentially misleading and need more context, and people across a diverse range of perspectives decide what sort of context is helpful for other users to see." Kaplan said the approach was "less prone to bias." The company will also "simplify" its content policies, Kaplan said, and "get rid of a bunch of restrictions on topics like immigration and gender that are just out of touch with mainstream discourse." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta has faced scrutiny in the past for its approach to content moderation. In August, Zuckerberg sent a letter to Republican Rep. Jim Jordan , who chairs the House Judiciary Committee and has been a vocal critic of Zuckerberg. The Meta CEO said in his letter that the Biden administration repeatedly pressured the company in 2021 to remove COVID-19-related content and "expressed a lot of frustration" when the company did not agree. X, called Twitter at the time, launched community notes in 2021, but the feature started appearing on more posts in 2023. Users can sign up to add context to posts that might contain misinformation or misleading content. Other users can rate how helpful they find the note. Similar to X, Meta will let users contribute to the writing and rating of community notes, Kaplan said. He added that Meta would move its trust and safety teams, which help moderate content, from California to Texas and other locations in the US. Last year X, whose content-moderation headquarters is in Austin, also planned changes to its trust and safety team. Joe Benarroch, X's head of business operations at the time, told Bloomberg that the platform was aiming to hire 100 full-time workers for the team. Meta didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Correction: January 7, 2025 An earlier version of this story had an outdated photo caption. It also misattributed information about community-note contributions and ratings. Read the original article on Business Insider Meta is moving its safety and content moderation teams from California to Texas and other states. CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the shifts would help address concerns of bias and over-censorship. Zuckerberg's Meta appears to be following the lead of Elon Musk's X in prioritizing free speech. Mark Zuckerberg is moving Meta's platform security and content oversight teams out of California and shifting staff who review posts to Texas in a bid to combat concerns about liberal bias and over-censorship at his social-media empire. The CEO of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads' parent company said on Tuesday that the moves would help return Meta to its "roots around free expression and giving people voice on our platforms." Zuckerberg wrote that Meta would "move our trust and safety and content moderation teams out of California, and our US content review to Texas. This will help remove the concern that biased employees are overly censoring content." California is widely recognized as a progressive state while Texas is traditionally conservative. Zuckerberg likely hopes that shifting oversight of his social networks to red states like Texas will help assuage claims that blue-state liberals are silencing conservative voices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta's chief global affairs officer, Joel Kaplan, confirmed the changes in a blog post, writing that the company will relocate the teams "that write our content policies and review content out of California to Texas and other US locations." He told Fox News' "Fox & Friends" on Tuesday that Meta was seeking to "rebalance" and "rebuild trust" among users who felt their perspectives were not wanted on its networks. "We want to make sure that they understand that their views are welcome and that we're providing a space for them to come onto our platforms, engage, express themselves, engage in the important issues of the day or not in the important issues of the day and just whatever it is they want to talk about and share," Kaplan said. Meta's Joel Kaplan with CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Chesnot/Getty Images Zuckerberg, Meta's billionaire cofounder and largest shareholder, also laid out plans to replace fact-checkers with Community Notes. He will also lift restrictions on topics like immigration and gender, ease overall censorship and instead focus on stopping illegal and severe policy violations, return civic content to users' feeds, and work with President-elect Trump to resist pressure from foreign governments to make US companies censor more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elon Musk, who acquired Twitter in late 2022 and rebranded it X, has made free expression a priority on his platform and spearheaded the use of Community Notes as a substitute for fact-checking and censorship. Musk also shut X's headquarters in San Francisco last fall in favor of operating the company out of Bastrop, Texas. Read the original article on Business Insider All products featured on Teen Vogue are independently selected by Teen Vogue editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, Conde Nast may earn an affiliate commission. David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images Mark Zuckerberg has been on a tear since Donald Trump won the 2024 election. With visits to Mar-a-Lago and bringing pro-Trump cronies onto Metas board, Zuckerberg appears to be saying, let er rip. In a video announcement on Tuesday, Zuckerberg claimed that Metas third-party fact-checkers were too politically biased, and that Meta would be moving its content moderation operation from California to Texas (a famously apolitical state, definitely not at the forefront of anti-trans extremism). Metas new global policy head, Republican lobbyist Joel Kaplan, pointed to Elon Musks changes to Twitter/Xs community notes system as the model that Meta would be moving towards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I never thought Id long for the days where Musk and Zuckerberg were talking about beating the crap out of each other. But watching the second Trump administration kick off with corporations from Meta to Disney to Apple to ABC kissing the ring, that memory feels quaint. Stay up-to-date with the politics team. Sign up for the Teen Vogue Take. Zuckerberg acknowledged upfront that this policy change would result in trade-offs, meaning theyll catch less bad stuff, per the New York Times. But just last week, WIRED reported that Instagram and Facebook have been hosting ads for DIY gun silencers advertised as fuel filters, which can be a felony. (The company told WIRED it removed the ads and associated accounts after the publication flagged them.) A year ago, Meta caught attention for its suppression of political content, which they attributed in part to the difficulty of content moderation. With todays announcement, the move seems intended to, as the New York Times put it, [allow Meta] to step back from politically loaded decisions about what content to take down. Conservatives took the news as validation for all their complaints about censorship, though one 2024 study published in the journal Nature found that, while right-wingers are suspended more than liberals online, thats because theyre more often found to be spreading misinformation or otherwise dubious sources. Meanwhile, the actual censorship going on within Metas platforms? Just yesterday, as reported by Taylor Lorenz, it came out that Meta was suppressing LGBTQ+ content on Instagram from young users who may have actively sought it out, which the company is calling a mistake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then theres the fact that the companys purported interest in free speech doesnt necessarily seem to always extend to its own staffers. According to 404 Media, Meta employees who complained about the appointment of Trump supporter and UFC president Dana White to Metas board saw their criticisms deleted. (The company did something similar in the wake of the Dobbs ruling in 2022 that led to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.) Among the deleted messages included mention of the fact that White was caught on video in 2023 slapping his wife, behavior which he admitted to and said was wrong. Zuck must be rejoicing knowing that TikTok is potentially getting banned in the U.S., seemingly for data collection processes that companies like Zuckerbergs perfected. Young people are already distrustful of mainstream media, and point to TikTok as a key source of political information; creators on the app are considering pivoting to other platforms out of necessity to salvage their followings and incomes. They largely dont use Facebook. Instagrams TikTok ripoff, Reels, and Twitter ripoff, Threads, are poor facsimiles of the real thing (even with Elon Musks X living on as the garbage fire that just wont stop burning). In the video message, Mark Zuckerberg took the time to throw legacy media under the bus for [pushing Meta] to censor more and more. The existence of companies like Meta and the conspiracy theories and real-world crises that lack of content moderation has already sown has contributed to the death of legacy media, creating an information system of churn-and-burn. Peoples distrust in the media is why fact-checking is so important. In 2022, Meta was the biggest funder of fact-checking organizations worldwide. Zuckerbergs dangerous decision deals another blow to a media ecosystem where trust is nonexistent and the need for verified information is ever-growing. Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Want more U.S. government coverage? JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Judy Seabrook, with the Mississippi Animal Rescue League (MARL), joined us to discuss the adoption process for pets at the organization. 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 WJTV. Gov. Maura Healey said Tuesday that the state has awarded $1.8 million for financial assistance to women seeking abortion care and to support infrastructure and security upgrades for abortion service providers. The funding from the state Department of Public Health was awarded to a group of community-based organizations and clinical providers under the under the Reproductive Health Access, Infrastructure, and Security Grants program, officials said. It is essential for womens health and economic wellbeing to have access to high-quality reproductive health care services, Healey said in a statement. These grants will help ensure that cost is not a barrier for anyone to seek the care they need, while also supporting our hardworking service providers in making critical infrastructure and security upgrades that allow them to deliver safe, high-quality care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts is proud to be a national leader in preserving and expanding access to reproductive health care, and were going to continue to make sure that patients and providers have the resources they need, Healey added. This allocation marks the second round of awards under DPHs Reproductive Health Access, Infrastructure, and Security Grants program, officials said. The funding, which began in December, will continue through Dec. 31, 2026. Healey said the increased demand for abortion services in Massachusetts since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 underscores the importance of supporting abortion providers in the state. This funding will enable Massachusetts residents as well as those traveling to Massachusetts for abortion care to receive safe, high-quality care in clinics with appropriate security and infrastructure, Healey said in her statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grants also support all of Massachusetts abortion funds, which provide small grants to women who need financial support to access abortion care, officials said. Additionally, the grants will allow providers to upgrade facilities and equipment, increase physical and digital security, provide grants to patients for abortion care, and also improve inter-organizational referrals and continuity of care, officials said. State officials said priority was given to organizations that demonstrated the capacity to reach people seeking abortion care, a commitment and plan for promoting racial justice and health equity, and the ability to work collaboratively with other community-based agencies to maximize access to sexual and reproductive health services, including abortion care. These grants are an important step in our efforts to sustain reproductive health care in Massachusetts and will enable people to receive informed care when and where they need it, Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh said in a statement. Were proud to support the dedicated providers who are on the front lines of delivering these health care services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Below are the recipients of the New Reproductive Health Access, Infrastructure, and Security Grants: Abortion Rights Fund of Western Massachusetts Brigham and Womens Hospital Eastern Massachusetts Abortion Fund Four Women Health Services Below are the recipients of the Existing Reproductive Health Access, Infrastructure, and Security Grants: Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center Boston Medical Center Cambridge Health Alliance Health Imperatives HealthQ Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts Tapestry Health Tides for Reproductive Freedom Womens Health Services Lawmakers said the grants will improve access to reproductive health care in the Bay State. This grant program helps ensure that reproductive health care in Massachusetts remains safe, accessible, and readily available to anyone in need of care, state Sen. Cindy Friedman, an Arlington Democrat who serves as Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Health Care, said in a statement. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW For more than five years straight, Massachusetts has been one of the most moved out of states in the country. Moving company United Van Lines released its annual national movers study on Jan. 1, which compiles moving data for each state around the country. In 2024, Massachusetts ranked No. 5 on the list of most outbound moves. Prior to that, Massachusetts was No. 7 for three years straight. As housing costs continue to rise, Americans are moving to lower density, more affordable regions between expensive, economic-driving states," said Michael A. Stoll, a public policy professor at The University of California, Los Angeles. In 2024, Massachusetts ranked No. 5 on the list of most outbound moves. How many people moved out of Massachusetts in 2024? More than 57% of moves in Massachusetts were outbound, according to data from United Van Lines. That means just over 42% of moves in the state were people migrating to Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The primary reasons people moved out of Massachusetts last year were because of family or job reasons, according to the study. Most of the outbound movers were age 65 or older, and more than 50% of them had an income of $150,000 or more. Which states did people move to the most in 2024? According to United Van Lines, the top ten states with the most inbound movers in 2024 were: West Virginia Delaware South Carolina District of Columbia North Carolina Alabama Rhode Island Oregon Arkansas Arizona Which states did people move out of the most in 2024? According to United Van Lines, the top nine states with the most outbound movers in 2024 were: New Jersey Illinois New York California Massachusetts North Dakota Wyoming Mississippi Nebraska This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Which state was moved out of the most in 2024? MA was one of the top MASSILLON, Ohio (WJW) A Massillon man has been arrested after being charged with operating a vehicle while under the influence (OVI) for the thirteenth time. According to a press release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 57-year-old Paul Whitt was driving a 2012 Buick Verano when he was stopped by a trooper for a traffic violation on US 250 eastbound near milepost 18 in Tuscarawas County on Monday. Trump delivers first remarks as certified election winner Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the release, Whitt fled the traffic stop and a short pursuit began. Whitt led troopers onto Barnhill Road but failed to yield at the stop sign while turning and drove off the roadway and going into a ditch, the release said. Whitt was arrested at the scene and taken to the hospital. Handwritten notes: Independence police warn of local scam When cleared from medical treatment, Whitt was taken to the Tuscarawas County Jail. He was charged with failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving under suspension, failure to wear a seatbelt and display of license plates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The OSHP asks that impaired drivers and drug activity be reported by using #677 or 911 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A 608-pound bluefin tuna sold for $1.3 million (207 million yen) at Tokyos Toyosu fish market on Sunday, making it the second-most expensive tuna sold at Japans premiere wholesale fish markets since record-keeping began in 1999. The Onodera Group, which owns the Michelin-starred Sushi Ginza Onodera chain, purchased the motorcycle-sized fish which is thought to carry auspicious omens for the new year. The years first tuna brings good luck. We want to make people smile with food, Sushi Onodera president Shinji Nagao told the Japanese outlet Kyodo News. This is the fifth consecutive year that Onodera purchased the most expensive fish. Our hope is that by eating this tuna everyone will have a good year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sushi Ginza Onodera operates 20 restaurants across Japan, the United States, and China, according to their website. The groups restaurants have been honored with 15 Michelin stars. The priciest New Years catch ever sold at the Tokyo market was a bluefin tuna that went for $3.1 million (333.6 million yen) in 2019, shortly after the market moved from its original location in Tsukiji. In the ensuing years, however, prices dropped off in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Last year, the Onodera group paid $720,000 (114.2 million yen) for the first fish of the year, according to CNN. Fisherman Masahiro Takeuchi also celebrated his whopping catch, which he said was as fat as a cow. Takeuchi reeled in the fish off the coast of Oma, a small town in northeastern Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its like a dream, the 73-year old told Japanese reporters. Im always worried about how many more years I can do this job, but Im incredibly happy. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Matt Gaetz, the former U.S. representative turned conservative cable host, may not be done with politics. Weeks after the release of a congressional report on sexual misconduct allegations against Gaetz, the former U.S. representative told the Tampa Bay Times hes starting to think about running for governor in 2026. Chief among Gaetzs stated policy concerns? The insurance crisis. I have a compelling vision for the state, Gaetz said. I understand how to fix the insurance problem, and its not to hand the keys to the state over to the insurance industry. If I run, I would be the most pro-consumer candidate on the Republican side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the election 22 months out, Gaetz said he needs more time to pray about whether to seek Floridas highest office and more time to discuss it with his wife, Ginger. But Gaetz openly mulling a run is nonetheless noteworthy. He is one of the most popular figures among the MAGA base. His support for economic populism and cannabis legalization to say nothing of his personal controversies would make him a unique Republican candidate. Hes also one of the most reviled Republicans in the country by Democrats. When he got Trumps nod to serve as attorney general, Florida Democratic Party chairperson Nikki Fried called Gaetz a chaos agent who cares about nothing but his own personal power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaetz has been rumored to be mulling a run for governor for some time. A former Panhandle-area state representative who was first elected to Congress in 2016, Gaetz won few friends in Washington, even among his own party. In the final days of his last term, the House Ethics Committee voted to release a damning report that found substantial evidence that Gaetz used illegal drugs; accepted gifts outside of allowable limits; paid women for sex and had sex with a 17-year-old girl during the time he served in Congress. The U.S. Department of Justice investigated Gaetz for sex trafficking before ultimately deciding not to charge him in 2023. The rumors related to the ethics report almost certainly toppled his nomination by President-elect Donald Trump to be U.S. attorney general. When he posted to X withdrawing his name from consideration in November, Gaetz said his candidacy for attorney general was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Gaetz said he doesnt see the findings as an impediment to a potential run for governor. Those lies have been told about me for years, he said. Theyve never affected my ability to win elections. Gaetzs alleged personal shortcomings didnt seem to bother Trump, the Republican standard bearer. Much about the ethics committees report was either known or the subject of substantial rumor when Trump picked Gaetz to serve as his attorney general. Gaetz resigned his U.S. House seat after getting Trumps nomination. He now hosts a political show on the cable network One America News. Should Gaetz run, its not yet clear who would join him in the Republican ranks. Gov. Ron DeSantis is term-limited out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody have each been rumored to be considering a run for the Republican nomination. (Moody is also widely seen as the top candidate to be DeSantis' choice to succeed Marco Rubio in the Senate.) Gaetz said he would view the Republican primary as the deciding race in the battle for who will lead Florida in 2026. Some Floridians i.e. Democrats are simply not electable statewide, Gaetz said. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) Brighton police revealed more information Tuesday about the circumstances leading up to a murder-suicide involving an 11-year-old girl. On Friday, police said three people died from gunshot wounds at a home on Hollyvale Drive. They were identified as 53-year-old Lawrence Mancuso, his daughter Anne Mancuso, and Mary Liccini. Liccini was Annes grandmother on her mothers side. Brighton Police Chief David Catholdi told News 8 the investigation has revealed the timeline of Lawrence Mancusos actions last Friday. Catholdi said Mancuso bought alcohol at a store at 9 a.m. before stealing firearms from a relatives home in Greece and then heading to Hollyvale Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators determined Mancuso shot his daughter and Liccini before shooting himself. Both Lawrence and Liccini were found dead at the scene. Anne was found unresponsive at a neighbors home and taken to a hospital where she died from her injuries. All of the stolen weapons were recovered. All four handguns were recovered one inside the home and the other three in a vehicle. Willow outlines domestic violence resources in wake of Brighton tragedy Catholdi confirmed Brighton Police were at the Hollyvale Drive home the day prior to the incident for a custodial issue. Mancuso and Annes mother were divorced for some time, with Mancuso living on Eastbrook Lane at the time of this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Catholdi said Mancuso had questions about custody and didnt like the idea that Anne was staying with the grandma. He didnt believe that was in the custody agreement. But the Brighton Chief characterized the interaction with his officers as routine. Prior to this, Mancuso worked at Cornell University as the Assistant Dean for Human Resources in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. He took a leave of absence in October. The reason is unknown. Brighton Police Chief David Catholdi explained there is one part of the investigation that will never be discovered why it happened. Youre not going to know the why, we know for a fact he was on leave from Cornell. The why? We will never know because we cant talk to him, said Chief David Catholdi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked whether the situation could have been prevented or not, Chief Catholdi was unsure. I dont know, as I was sitting here I dont know, he said, adding Once your mind is set, once that evil is in you and its set and youre going to do violence, its very hard to break that cycle and to interrupt that. Following this tragedy, the Brighton community came together to honor Anne by placing flowers and luminaries that lined the streets. Anne was a sixth-grader for the Brighton Central School District. The district said in part: I dont know how or why this happens and I dont know what to say, other than were here for you and we will continue to be here with love, support, and sympathy for all, especially for Annies family and friends. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time. 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. Lorna Beach-Mathura, the ex-Transit Police employee accusing Mayor Adams of sexual assault, filed for bankruptcy last summer and days later brought a lawsuit alleging New York City should pay her at least $75,000 for a slip-and-fall she had in Queens, the Daily News has learned. Beach-Mathura filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in her home state of Florida this past Aug. 28, laying out how shes nearly $333,000 in debt to various creditors, court papers reviewed by The News show. Two weeks later, on Sept. 11, Beach-Mathura filed her slip-and fall suit against the city in Brooklyn Federal Court, court records reveal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alleged tumble happened Oct. 22, 2023 a month before she first filed the $5 million assault claim against Adams that he denies when Beach-Mathura, a practicing Buddhist, was on her way to Myosetsuji Temple in Flushing, where she was going to attend a ceremony, according to a transcript of an interview about the incident she had with city government lawyers last spring. Specifically, Lorna-Beach, 68, told the city lawyers she had just exited the Court Sq. subway station in Long Island City and was about to cross the street to catch a bus. I started moving across a square, a large square area that looked like dirt, so I started walking across that area, thats when I tripped, she said under oath, according to the transcript, which was submitted in court. I started walking across and all of a sudden I felt my foot, my right foot trip on something and I started stumbling and I was trying to steady myself, and my left foot was moving forward and I tripped again and the next thing you know, Im falling hard onto the sidewalk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lorna-Beach alleges the fall was so bad she had to be taken to Elmhurst Hospital after sustaining severe and permanent injuries to her left wrist, left hand, left elbow, right knee, neck, back and chest. According to her suit, the fall happened because of a dangerous, defective and uneven kink in the sidewalk that the city should have remedied. She submitted multiple photos along with her suit showing an empty sidewalk tree pit lined with bricks, several of which appear displaced, and claimed her injuries should prompt a judge to order the city to pay her a sum that exceeds $75,000, exclusive of interests and costs. In a response filed in October, an attorney for the city Law Department rejected Lorna-Beachs argument, writing she should have known of the risks and dangers incident to engaging in the activity alleged and that the city owed no duty to her. In a subsequent letter to the court, the Law Department attorney wrote the city will seek to dismiss her suit because of a lack of specificity in an initial notice she filed detailing her allegations. The presiding judge has asked Beach-Mathura and the city to provide a status update Jan. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beach-Mathura, who lives in Miami, and the lawyer representing her in the slip-and-fall suit didnt return requests for comment Tuesday. Amid the slip-and-fall action, Beach-Mathuras bankruptcy filing is pending in the Sunshine State. According to records submitted in Southern Florida Bankruptcy Court, Beach-Mathura owes $328,855 to more than a dozen creditors, including banks and hospitals. She reported in court papers she has no regular income, but owns a home worth about $380,000 and receives roughly $3,100 per month in retirement and Social Security benefits. Spokespeople for Adams and the Law Department, which represents him in the assault case, declined to comment on Beach-Mathuras bankruptcy and slip-and-fall actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her new legal actions come as her assault suit against Adams is also pending, a case that first came to light in November 2023, when she filed a notice of claim with the city. Last March, she then filed her lawsuit, which alleges Adams tried to force her to perform oral sex on him in a parked car in 1993 while they worked together for the since-defunct city Transit Police Department. Beach-Mathura, whos seeking at least $5 million in damages over the alleged assault, says that when she refused his proposition, he masturbated and ejaculated on her leg. Adams has vehemently denied the accusations, saying he does not recall ever meeting this person. In August, Beach-Mathuras attorney filed records in court showing she wrote emails about the alleged assault before Adams was elected mayor in 2021. Beach-Mathura has filed several unsuccessful lawsuits in recent years, including a civil action against American Airlines in 2014 that alleged an employee injured her by causing her to fall out of her wheelchair. She has also written a self-help book offering advice about how to file pro se lawsuits. NEW YORK Lorna Beach-Mathura, the ex-Transit Police employee accusing Mayor Eric Adams of sexual assault, filed for bankruptcy last summer and days later brought a lawsuit alleging New York City should pay her at least $75,000 for a slip-and-fall she had in Queens, the Daily News has learned. Beach-Mathura filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in her home state of Florida this past Aug. 28, laying out how shes nearly $333,000 in debt to various creditors, court papers reviewed by The News show. Two weeks later, on Sept. 11, Beach-Mathura filed her slip-and fall suit against the city in Brooklyn Federal Court, court records reveal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The alleged tumble happened Oct. 22, 2023 a month before she first filed the $5 million assault claim against Adams that he denies when Beach-Mathura, a practicing Buddhist, was on her way to Myosetsuji Temple in Flushing, where she was going to attend a ceremony, according to a transcript of an interview about the incident she had with city government lawyers last spring. Specifically, Lorna-Beach, 68, told the city lawyers she had just exited the Court Sq. subway station in Long Island City and was about to cross the street to catch a bus. I started moving across a square, a large square area that looked like dirt, so I started walking across that area, thats when I tripped, she said under oath, according to the transcript, which was submitted in court. I started walking across and all of a sudden I felt my foot, my right foot trip on something and I started stumbling and I was trying to steady myself, and my left foot was moving forward and I tripped again and the next thing you know, Im falling hard onto the sidewalk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lorna-Beach alleges the fall was so bad she had to be taken to Elmhurst Hospital after sustaining severe and permanent injuries to her left wrist, left hand, left elbow, right knee, neck, back and chest. According to her suit, the fall happened because of a dangerous, defective and uneven kink in the sidewalk that the city should have remedied. She submitted multiple photos along with her suit showing an empty sidewalk tree pit lined with bricks, several of which appear displaced, and claimed her injuries should prompt a judge to order the city to pay her a sum that exceeds $75,000, exclusive of interests and costs. In a response filed in October, an attorney for the city Law Department rejected Lorna-Beachs argument, writing she should have known of the risks and dangers incident to engaging in the activity alleged and that the city owed no duty to her. In a subsequent letter to the court, the Law Department attorney wrote the city will seek to dismiss her suit because of a lack of specificity in an initial notice she filed detailing her allegations. The presiding judge has asked Beach-Mathura and the city to provide a status update Jan. 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beach-Mathura, who lives in Miami, and the lawyer representing her in the slip-and-fall suit didnt immediately return requests for comment Tuesday. Amid the slip-and-fall action, Beach-Mathuras bankruptcy filing is pending in the Sunshine State. According to records submitted in Southern Florida Bankruptcy Court, Beach-Mathura owes $328,855 to more than a dozen creditors, including banks and hospitals. She reported in court papers she has no regular income, but owns a home worth about $380,000 and receives roughly $3,100 per month in retirement and Social Security benefits. Spokespeople for Adams and the Law Department, which represents him in the assault case, didnt immediately return requests for comment on Beach-Mathuras bankruptcy and slip-and-fall actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her new legal actions come as her assault suit against Adams is also pending, a case that first came to light in November 2023, when she filed a notice of claim with the city. Last March, she then filed her lawsuit, which alleges Adams tried to force her to perform oral sex on him in a parked car in 1993 while they worked together for the since-defunct city Transit Police Department. Beach-Mathura, whos seeking at least $5 million in damages over the alleged assault, says that when she refused his proposition, he masturbated and ejaculated on her leg. Adams has vehemently denied the accusations, saying he does not recall ever meeting this person. In August, Beach-Mathuras attorney filed records in court showing she wrote emails about the alleged assault before Adams was elected mayor in 2021. Beach-Mathura has filed several unsuccessful lawsuits in recent years, including a civil action against American Airlines in 2014 that alleged an employee injured her by causing her to fall out of her wheelchair. She has also written a self-help book offering advice about how to file pro se lawsuits. HONOLULU (KHON2) The Thirty Meter Telescope is back as a hot topic, after Hawaii Countys new mayor said he could now support the project if its done right. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You In videos posted to social media in recent days, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda expresses support for TMT, something that caught many on both sides of the issue by surprise as Alameda had previously opposed the project back when construction was set to begin in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had family on the front lines, and I was up there, too, as a protector, Alameda told KHON2. Im still a protector, so Im still trying to figure out, as the mayor, how can we and is there a place where we can find the common ground? As mayor, he gets a seat on the Maunakea Stewardship and Oversight Authority. He went to his first meeting in this role last month. Hawaii seeks end to strife over astronomy on sacred mountain Nobody has mentioned the elephant in the room, which is TMT, and thats the first thing I noticed, he said. I think theres not really the best timing for what is to be brought up again, but might as well. My thinking is, if its the elephant in the room, then we might as well talk about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor has a right to his own opinions but the issue of the TMT lease has not yet come before the authority, so there are no actions or decisions coming up at this time or in the near future, said Noe Noe Wong-Wilson, another MKSOA board member, who was one of the kupuna kiai arrested at the Maunakea demonstrations years ago. KHON2 reached out to TMT for comment and any updates from its side. As recently as last month, the National Science Foundation was still weighing what project to give $1.6 billion dollars to TMT, or a competing telescope known as GMT which would be located in Chile. This is the best mountain, best science, this would put the United States on the map, Alameda said. It could go somewhere else, Chile, but then the Chileans would benefit, and not the residents of Hawaii. So if there is a universal benefit, I want that to be for our people. If TMT is done here, it has to be done right, the mayor says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats what Ive been terming all along as the new TMT because there might be a new version. So what I want the public to know, and the people of Hawaii Island to know, is that this might be our opportunity to really come together as an island people. I am uncertain what new version of TMT the mayor is referring to, Wong-Wilson said. Alameda mayor says he didnt intend to jump start the conversation until what he calls a draft of a taped message got posted by others to social media. The mayor then posted a second on his own account after that. I was creating a video to share with the National Science Foundation to make sure that theyre aware that, hey, you know, we want continual funding, not just funding for the astronomy community, but funding for science and that there might be a win-win for everybody. And as the mayor of the county, Im willing to put myself out there and start the discussion. 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 KHON2. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Portland Mayor Keith Wilson has been in office about a week and he is already getting pushback on one of his stated initiatives and hes starting to backtrack. Wilson wants city employees who work remotely to spend more time at the office, at least four days a week. But unions representing those workers are saying not so fast. The new mayor said 60% of city employees about 4000 people have been reporting to job sites over the past four years, he wants to see all staff return. Since the pandemic, former Mayor Ted Wheeler allowed employees to work partly remote. In January 2024, Wheeler called for them to work in the office 20 hours a week, about 2.5 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilsons request was met with immediate pushback as some union members said remote work in some cases is actually more efficient. Rob Martineau, president of AFSCME Local 189 which represents a number of city workers, said its members will continue to do the work wherever it needs to be done. Portland City Council settles on council president in contentious first meeting In the statement, Martineau continued, We are committed to delivering services the most efficient and effective way possible. The Mayor has been open, available and engaging with our union and we look forward to his continued partnership in his priorities for Portland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to KOIN 6 News on Monday, Wilson said that given the current budget constraints and our ongoing efforts to address unsheltered homelessness, the full return of staff to the office will not be feasible in 2025. Wilson said he is currently evaluating options and will announce his revised strategy in the coming weeks. The change Wilson pushed would require contract changes with more than a dozen unions in the city. Three of those unions, including AFSCME, are in contract negotiations at this time. So while Mayor Wilson would like to see city employees back in the office to boost downtown vitality and the economy, its proving to be easier said than done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Editors Note: An earlier version of this story misattributed a quote to David Kreisman with Oregon AFSCME. This version has the correct attribution. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. McDonalds has become one of the largest US companies to roll back its diversity targets following a Supreme Court ruling on positive discrimination on American university campuses. The fast food giant said it would abandon targets for achieving diverse representation in senior roles and change the name of its diversity team to become the Global Inclusion Team. It will also scrap requirements for suppliers to comply with so-called diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals and will stop taking part in external surveys that measure corporate diversity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the last several months, a small team has been working on refining our language to better capture McDonalds commitment to inclusion, the company said. In an open letter sent to employees and franchise owners, McDonalds said it had made the changes in response to the shifting legal landscape which it added may impact corporations such as McDonalds. It follows a landmark Supreme Court decision that effectively banned race-based affirmative action in university admissions policies often used to boost the number of black, Hispanic and other under-represented minority groups within institutions. McDonalds is the latest US company to row back on its diversity pledges amid an anti-woke backlash across corporate America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walmart, the worlds biggest retailer, dropped its diversity initiatives in November after pressure from activist Robby Starbuck, who hailed the decision as the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America. Walmart dropped its diversity initiatives in November after pressure from anti-woke activist Robby Starbuck - Jason Davis/Getty Images North America John Deere and Harley-Davidson are among other companies that have watered down diversity schemes. Donald Trump, the president-elect, has also threatened a clampdown on corporate diversity, saying last year that he had compiled a list of woke companies that could be published for the world to see. McDonalds introduced a number of diversity initiatives four years ago, following accusations of racism and sexual harassment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company faced fresh claims of sexual harassment among workers on Tuesday, following an investigation published by the BBC. One 19-year-old McDonalds worker said some of his colleagues were scared of going into work and that managers would touch up other members of staff, while another said a manager in his 30s asked her for sex in return for extra shifts when she was 17. On Tuesday, McDonalds UK and Ireland boss was quizzed by MPs on the business and trade committee who asked if the company had become a predators paradise. Alistair Macrow told MPs staff were speaking up, adding that out of 75 allegations made, 47 have been upheld and 29 individuals dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 700 current and former staff are taking legal action against the chain. Mr Macrow insisted that sex for shifts allegations were not about zero-hour contracts, denying that this type of flexible contract creates an imbalance of power. The BBC said that since its original investigation into sexual abuse at the company in 2023, the UK equality watchdog has heard 300 reported incidents of harassment. A UK spokesman said that any incident of misconduct and harassment is unacceptable and subject to rapid and thorough investigation and action. Our relentless focus on eliminating all forms of harassment at McDonalds is led by a newly created team and informed by the experience and guidance of external experts. 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. McDonald's is the latest large corporation to announce that it's unwinding some of its diversity initiatives. The fast-food giant said it is changing its approach to "inclusion" at the company, according to a memo to restaurant owners and operators as well as employees worldwide, which was posted on its corporate website on Monday. Specifically, the company will no longer set "aspirational representation goals," or targets for achieving diverse representation in senior roles. McDonald's is also ditching a program it created to encourage its suppliers to make their own diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) pledges and invest in diversity training for their employees. Instead, the company says it will have conversations "with suppliers about inclusion as it relates to business performance." Another change: McDonald's will refer to its diversity team as the "Global Inclusion Team." "This name change is more fitting for McDonald's in light of our inclusion value and better aligns with this team's work," the company said. Additionally, McDonald's said it will pause "external surveys," without providing specifics. McDonald's follows a slew of high-profile corporations including Ford, Lowe's, John Deere and others, in rolling back its DEI efforts after a Supreme Court ruling reversing affirmative action in college admissions. Ford and other employers have declined to participate in a Human Rights Campaign survey that gauges a company's inclusivity for LGBTQ+ workers. In 2024, more than 30% of the company's leaders were from underrepresented groups, McDonald's said in the memo. The company also achieved gender pay equity companywide, according to its 2024 Purpose and Impact Report. On the supplier front, the company last year met its goal of spending 25% on diverse-owned suppliers by 2025. Crews battle Palisades Fire flare-up in Mandeville Canyon Wendell Pierce: An actor's journey Jamie Dimon on the economy Paul G. Pinsky, director of the Maryland Energy Administration, served seven terms in the Senate and two in the House of Delegates. File photo by Bryan P. Sears. Paul G. Pinsky, the longtime state legislator who now heads the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), told his staff Monday that he is under care for treatable bladder cancer. In a memo to all MEA staff, Pinsky disclosed that hes been receiving chemotherapy and immunotherapy to treat the cancer on a regular basis for the past several months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview Monday, Pinsky, 74, said he is feeling well generally and has been given a positive long-term prognosis. He said he wanted to disclose his illness now because even though he has been working steadily, with the General Assembly session starting hell be making more public appearances than he has been in recent months and has been wearing hats in public, which could spark some speculation about his health. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US He said in the interview that hes not ready for the Wes Moore bald look yet. As someone who believes in transparency, after extended thought, I decided I should share this information with you, Pinsky wrote to his colleagues. While you wont see a change in my performance, you may see a change in my hairline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Wes Moore (D) tapped Pinsky to lead the MEA and the agency has upped its profile as state government implements the comprehensive Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022 which Pinsky authored as a state senator representing Prince Georges County. Pinskys wife, Joan Rothgeb, a former top Prince Georges County Public Schools official, died of pancreatic cancer in 2020 at the age of 63. Working with you and leading the agency have given me even stronger purpose, Pinsky wrote his colleagues Monday. Medical issues, be they physical or emotional, are a fact of life. They are experienced by many. Some might share, others might not. And we should respect whatever approach is chosen. Lester Holt of NBC ends his broadcast with the sign-off, Take care of yourself, and each other. Good advice all year and particularly as we complete this holiday season, Pinsky said. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has warned that his country will not be able to withstand being dragged into a war, citing the dire consequences of such a scenario, Azernews reports via Belta News. In a statement Lukashenko expressed concerns about the current political situation, noting that the situation would become extremely complicated if Belarus were to be pulled into a conflict. Lukashenko also drew comparisons between the political climate in Belarus and Ukraine, highlighting the tension in both countries. "There is a very tense situation in the world, but we must endure it. Time will judge everything as it should be," Lukashenko stated. He further emphasized that while Belarus may be accused of having a dictatorship, it is still preferable to the state of affairs in Ukraine, referencing the ongoing conflict there. "The dictatorship of Belarus is better than the democracy in Ukraine. We cannot withstand war," Lukashenko concluded, reflecting on the challenges facing his country amidst the broader geopolitical tensions. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Medic has reached an agreement to temporarily extend its contract with the Charlotte Fire Department. The Mecklenburg County ambulance service announced Tuesday that its extending the agreement for six months through a memorandum of understanding. The two agencies had until Jan. 9, 2025, to reach a deal. PREVIOUS: Charlotte FD seeks new ambulance contract with Medic amid citys rapid growth Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will provide the time necessary to redefine the role that CFD plays as a first responder in the EMS system along with any downstream impact on Medic and service delivery, Medic officials said in a statement. Our focus is and will continue to be doing what is in the best interest of the community we collectively serve here in Mecklenburg County. The previous deal gave Medic the ability to dispatch fire crews to low-priority calls or have them respond to a call and provide care until a Medic ambulance can arrive. However, Charlotte FD officials say their crews are responding to an unsustainable number of calls. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Medical debt will be removed from consumer credit reports for all Americans under a final rule announced Tuesday by Vice President Kamala Harris. The rule will affect more than 15 million Americans, raising their credit scores by an estimated average of 20 points. No Americans will have medical debt listed on their credit report down from approximately 46 million Americans who had this kind of debt on their credit report in 2020. The vice president also announced that states and localities have already utilized American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to support the elimination of over $1 billion in medical debt for more than 700,000 Americans and that jurisdictions are on track to eliminate approximately $15 billion in medical debt for up to almost 6 million Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one should be denied economic opportunity because they got sick or experienced a medical emergency, Harris said in a statement Tuesday. This will be lifechanging for millions of families, making it easier for them to be approved for a car loan, a home loan, or a small-business loan. As someone who has spent my entire career fighting to protect consumers and lower medical bills, I know that our historic rule will help more Americans save money, build wealth, and thrive. Harris had previously announced the effort to remove medical debt from credit reports last summer. It may still face legal and political challenges, from credit reporting agencies and debt collectors, as well as from President-elect Donald Trump. Medical debt is the largest source of debt in collection in the United States, and its more likely to be held by women, people with disabilities and Black Americans. The nationwide credit reporting agencies, which are Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, removed medical debt under $500 from consumer credit reports as of April 2023. However, in April, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) released research that found 15 million Americans particularly those in the American South and low-income communities still have medical debt on their credit reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While medical debt estimates vary, a KFF Health Policy Research analysis last year found that 20 million people owed a collective $220 billion in medical debt. The analysis found that 13 percent of people with disabilities reported having medical debt, compared with 6 percent of those without a disability. It also found that non-Hispanic Black people carry more medical debt than other racial and ethnic groups, and women carry more than men. A separate analysis found that 14 percent of people who gave birth within the last year and a half reported having medical debt, compared with 7 percent of those who did not. Since we know that Black adults and women are more at risk of having medical debt, then I would expect this policy would benefit those groups, said Cynthia Cox, KFF vice president and director of the foundations Program on the Affordable Care Act, which examines health care coverage costs, affordability and accessibility. Undue Medical Debt, the nonprofit formerly known as RIP Medical Debt that contacts hospitals and health care systems requesting that they sell or donate portions of patients debt, and Perry Undem, a nonpartisan public opinion research firm, surveyed over 2,600 adults in August 2023, 229 of whom were Black women. Among Black women, 27 percent said they have delayed or said no to health services out of concerns over acquiring medical debt. A study from the American Cancer Society published in March suggested that medical debt is associated with worse health status, more premature deaths, and higher mortality rates at the county level in the US. Federal efforts to remove medical debt from credit reports began in 2023 after Harris announced that the CFPB would take the first steps to create rules that would take medical bills off credit reports, prohibit creditors from using medical bills to make underwriting decisions and ban collectors from using medical debt to pressure consumers to make payments. These proposals would narrow the 2005 exemption in the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which allowed creditors to use medical debts in underwriting credit decisions. Creditors would still have the ability to access medical debts and bill information in certain instances, such as to evaluate loan applications for medical services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other federal efforts to curb medical debt include the No Surprises Act, which took effect in July 2022 and prohibits surprise billing for most emergency services and non-emergency services done out-of-network. In 2022, YouGov, a research data and analytics technology group, reported that 66 percent of Americans supported government relief for medical debt. Eva Stahl, the vice president of public policy and program management at Undue Medical Debt, attributes this support to the fact that it can impact anyone. Its not a debt of choice, its a debt of necessity. Because theres a general consensus about that, its not really a partisan issue, she said. Stahl said they have gotten interest from legislators across the nation, even in the South, with some jurisdictions in Texas and Kentucky showing interest in erasing residents medical debt. Some state-level efforts to erase medical debt for state residents have either passed or been proposed some in partnership with Undue Medical Burden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In June 2023, Colorado became the first state to prohibit medical debt from being included on residents credit reports. Similar legislation was passed last year in Connecticut and proposed in New Jersey. In 2023, Connecticuts state legislature approved a budget that would allocate $6.5 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding toward erasing medical debt for residents whose medical debt is 5 percent of their income or whose household income is up to 400 percent of the federal poverty line. Last year, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, announced efforts to use $30 million of ARP funding to cancel medical debt for up to 1 million Arizonans, using similar criteria as Connecticut. Both states partnered with Undue Medical Debt. To Stahl, removing medical debt from credit reports has limitations. Patients will still feel the stress of having debt collectors call them several times a day, asking them when theyre going to pay their medical bills, or they may get into payment plans that they cant really afford, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post Medical debt will be erased from credit reports for all Americans under new federal rule appeared first on The 19th. News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) With freezing temperatures settling in, Mel Trotter Ministries is extending its annual coat drive by another month to meet rising demand for winter clothing. The nonprofit, which serves hundreds of unhoused individuals nightly, says donations have fallen short, leaving them struggling to keep people warm. The ministrys Code Blue Drive places blue collection barrels at over 40 local businesses to gather new and gently used winter gear. Its named for extreme winter conditions that increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite among vulnerable populations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have guests who dont stay in the shelter for various reasons, but they still need to be kept warm, said Matthew Grzybowski, Mel Trotters advancement operations manager. Our outreach teams go out every night to ensure people have the gear they need, but our supply isnt where it needs to be to keep them safe. Mel Trotter gives out dozens of coats each night and, right now, is short 20 to 30 each night. As a result, it is aiming to collect 250 coats to meet demand. It is requesting specific items: Mens and womens coats (sizes L3XL) Mens jeans (3240 waist, 32 length) Winter boots (mens sizes 915, womens sizes 612) Sweatpants and sweatshirts (sizes L4XL) Winter accessories like hats and gloves The reality is, you can only carry what you own when youre experiencing homelessness, Grzybowski said. A coat is a lifeline it keeps you warm and safe. Donations can be dropped off at Mel Trotters downtown Grand Rapids location, its thrift stores, or any of the 40-plus participating businesses: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bostwick Lake Inn: 8521 Belding Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341 Celebration Cinema GR North: 2121 Celebration Dr. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 GR South: 1506 Eastport Drive SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 Rivertown: 3728 Rivertown Pkwy Grandville, MI 49418 Studio Park: 123 Ionia SW, Grand Rapids MI 49503 Douglas J Institute: 138 Commerce Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Fastsigns: 582 29th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49512 Green Lake Calvary Church: 608 145th Ave, Caledonia, MI 49316 Mangiamo: 1033 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Mercantile Bank Alpine: 4613 Alpine Ave NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321 Forest Hills: 4737 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 Leonard: 310 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 Wyoming: 5610 Byron Center Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49519 Nick Finks: 3965 W River Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321 Our Daily Bread Ministries: 3000 Kraft Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 Robinson Dental: 502 W Randall St, Coopersville, MI 49404 Starbucks 121 Ionia Ave SW #105, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 4370 Lake Michigan Dr NW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 The B.O.B.: 20 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Viant: 620 Watson St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504 Vicinity Energy 156 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 950 Market Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Waxology 1844 Breton Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 3148 44th St, Grandville, MI 49418 54 Courtland St, Rockford, MI 49341 The lack of donations is also jeopardizing Mel Trotters annual coat giveaway at the end of January, an event open to everyone in need. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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) -- Giorgia Meloni was in Mar-a-Lago for barely five hours and every moment had to count. With so many leaders vying for Donald Trumps attention, hers was a win. But after dinner with the president elect, she was sat down to a screening of a controversial documentary on John Eastman, a Trump ally who formed a plan to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Most Read from Bloomberg The episode illustrates the perils of conducting business in the era of Trump, where access comes at a price and is loaded with risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a world Meloni a savvy political operator who leapfrogged rivals to become Italys first female prime minister must learn to navigate. Trump has a track record of souring on people who dont bow to his will. Same goes for Elon Musk, Melonis initial conduit to Trump. She developed a close friendship with the worlds richest man and photographs of the pair have made headlines around the world. After the Trump visit, Italy confirmed it was in advanced talks with Musks SpaceX to provide secure telecommunications, inevitably raising the question of a quid pro quo. The rewards are clear a role not dissimilar to the one Angela Merkel enjoyed back in the day as the Queen of Europe and the continents point person to the US, especially with France and Germany in political and economic disarray. She could punch above her weight, and just as easily get burned if she doesnt get the balancing act right. Already on Tuesday, she was facing a backlash over the SpaceX talks, with the opposition demanding that she testify in Parliament and accusing her of skipping due process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canadas Justin Trudeau, for example, was among the first to peg it to Palm Beach to try and ingratiate himself with Trump, but he quickly became a punch line and saw his fortunes made worse by Trumps tariff threats. He announced on Monday that hes resigning after more than nine years leading the country. Meloni already showed a certain deftness of touch in managing some complicated dynamics, European officials noted. With so many angling for an invitation to the Trump inauguration, she already had one but was live to the risk that it could upset the apple cart when the likes of Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, has had limited lines of communication with the incoming president. Also, there was the issue of Joe Biden. Meloni formed a genuinely close relationship with the outgoing president both staunch Catholics and hes going to be visiting Rome and the pope at the end of the week. By going to see Trump early she was able to avoid upset on many fronts, the officials said on condition of anonymity. If Trump can be mercurial, Musk is arguably even more volatile. Hes sunk millions to get Trump elected and firmly ensconced in his inner circle. There he is popping up in calls with world leaders, and again in photos shaking hands with Viktor Orban when the Hungarian prime minister made his own surprise visit to Trumps winter White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes now also throwing his weight aggressively in European politics and backing ever more extreme views. Nigel Farage, loved by Trump and until this weekend also by Musk, is now being berated by Musk because he wont welcome far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, into his Reform UK party. Farage, after saying he didnt agree with everything Musk stands for, learned the extent of the X owners ire. This poses a problem for Meloni who holds many opposing views from the president-elect, from proposed tariffs that could hurt Italian firms to support for Ukraine. Meloni has been among Kyivs staunchest backers both publicly and privately, diplomats say. Meloni has worked hard to shed the fascist label that she wore through her election campaign, keeping a foot in the European Union and also cultivating ties with like-minded conservatives. Musk, though close to her, has also defended her deputy Matteo Salvini, who leads the anti-immigration League that holds more extreme views than her own party and is a rival she outwitted to become premier. For her cohort in the EU, and indeed in Brussels, Meloni is one of the few who has good links with the Trump-Musk duo and isnt Orban. Many of them are struggling to establish communication channels with Trumps team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melonis trip was shrouded in secrecy, with even parts of her closest circles in government kept in the dark about her movements such is her fear of leaks. The two spoke about a range of matters, including the threat of tariffs and the imprisonment in Iran of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala. There was an early clue, though that spoke to the invisible hand of Musk at a play. The billionaires envoy in Italy, Andrea Stroppa, tweeted an AI-generated picture of the three in Roman imperial garb on Saturday afternoon. But Meloni and her government kept quiet. For now, its all going to plan. Trump praised her for taking Europe by storm. At 11 p.m. local time, the government-owned Airbus 319 carried her back to Rome overnight. Though fleeting, just having had that face time gives Meloni an edge as other European leaders are still getting their bearings in a MAGA-ified Washington. Her Italian ambassador to the US, Mariangela Zappia, played a key role in orchestrating the visit with the help of Musks team, people familiar with the matter said. Meloni and Musk are in touch on a near-constant basis, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already, it appears to have borne fruit. Musk gleefully posting on his X platform about the Starlink deal. The danger for Meloni who made a point of abandoning Chinas Belt and Road Initiative and managed to do so without irking Xi Jinping too much is that Italy creates a different kind of dependency. The imprisonment of Sala the Italian journalist in Tehrans notorious Evin prison puts her in a tricky situation with the Americans. The arrest came days after Italian law enforcement, at the request of the US, apprehended a Swiss-Iranian national at Milans Malpensa airport on charges of lethal drone warfare. Now Meloni has a domestic headache. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Meloni has shown so far is a certain mindfulness to the optics of appearing next to populist figures such as Argentinas Javier Milei and Hungarys Orban also favorites of Trump. She is seeking to carve a path somewhere between the two as a more serious and institutional whisperer, officials say. She is also riling up political adversaries who accuse her of siding with populists. What do you mean You side with Milei, she recently told former premier Matteo Renzi in the Senate. You were friends with Barack Obama and wore a coat like him. I am friends with Milei but that doesnt mean Im growing sideburns. Meloni also knows her closeness to Musk he presented her with an award at a New York gala event and was a guest of honor at her Lord of the Rings-inspired political festival risks angering some of her own colleagues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has been far-sighted to cultivate a relationship with him, said Beniamino Irdi, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and a former Italian government official. To consolidate this advantage, Meloni will need to solve very intertwined problems. Meloni will face a dilemma concerning her partys political identity, caught between her far-right ideological roots and the burden of governance and international commitments, especially in Europe, he added. Even if she returns to her conservative roots, ideological alignment alone isnt going to cut it. Trump capped his Mar-a-Lago meeting short with Meloni, telling a crowd at the movie screening that the two leaders had skipped dessert to watch the documentary in the grand ballroom that evening. --With assistance from Alberto Nardelli, Stephanie Lai and Ben Sills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with reaction to SpaceX talks in sixth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Interim Police Chief C.J. Davis held a press conference Monday highlighting new data showing a reduction in crime across the city. City leaders say their work sparked a 13.3% decrease in overall crime, compared to 2023, with violent crime down 10%. Im proud to say today that the work is working, Young said. During the press conference, Davis talked about the various programs initiated like Code Zero that took place in the departments 12 precincts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To address some of the problems in the city from that wholistic standpoint whether its inspections at businesses, whether its blight, working with code enforcement, nuisance properties or drag racing, Davis said. Public safety and crime stats report Nearly every zip code in Memphis saw crime go down, led by a 29% decrease in 38117 (East Memphis) and a 26% decrease in 38103 (Downtown.) There were 242 murders last year, down from 341 the previous year, a nearly 30% decrease. Vehicle thefts were down nearly 40%. Chief Davis also talked about the activation of a fugitive team with more than 800 people arrested during a three-month operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Memphis did not have an active fugitive team in the Memphis Police Department, Davis said. Young set a goal at the beginning of his term to lower crime in the city by 10% each year. Were not going to stop until Memphis is the model for how to reduce crime, Young said. Man shot in exchange of gunfire at Churchs Chicken However, Chief Davis acknowledged there are gaps, calling for everyone to work together to stay vigilant in the upcoming year. We really want to work harder in that visibility space and ensure that we have officers in places, Davis said. She also said she wants to collaborate more with other agencies and environmental court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We also are working really closely with our partners, federal partners (and) taking some of our cases federally, Davis said. (We) really want to work with us on nuisance properties as well as opposed to just allowing individuals to continue having crime at their properties or at their businesses, were going to be working collectively to get to the root of those problems. For the full report, 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 WREG.com. Even as American military leaders position the U.S. armed forces to fight and win our nations wars amid global volatility, the mental health of men and women serving in uniform remains a critical issue. Diagnoses of mental health disorders among active-duty military personnel jumped almost 40% between 2019 and 2023, according to a Department of Defense Defense Health Agency report released in December. Over that four-year period, a total of 541,672 active component U.S. service members were diagnosed with at least one mental health disorder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DODs Medical Surveillance Monthly Report highlighting mental health disorders among active-duty service members comes about a year after the department reported that, in 2023, 523 U.S. service members died by suicide an increase from the 2022 total of 493. Caring for those volunteering to defend America remains a top priority, said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin. Mental health is health, period. We must do more, at every level, to end the stigma against getting help. We all need counsel, community and connection. Reaching out is a sign of strength and resilience. Utah, of course, is home to thousands of men and women serving on active duty or in the reserves along with tens of thousands of military veterans. Large local military installations such as Hill Air Force Base and the Utah National Guards Camp Williams offer a variety of mental health resources to assist service members and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The message found on the HAFB site is one repeated throughout the U.S. military community: You are not alone. New Years Day tragedies in New Orleans, Las Vegas The DOD report was released shortly before two separate Jan. 1 tragedies perpetrated by individuals with military ties. Although it is still not fully known what role mental health issues played in either incident, they have prompted discussions on the well-being and mental health monitoring of active duty military members and veterans, alike. In New Orleans, Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar was killed by police following a truck attack on Bourbon Street that killed 14 people and injured dozens more. It is being investigated as a terrorist act, according to The Associated Press. That same day in Las Vegas, Matthew Livelsberger, an active duty member of the U.S. Army Special Forces, took his own life with a gun in a rented Cybertruck packed with explosives shortly before it blew up outside of the entrance of the Trump International Hotel, injuring seven people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said Livelsberger wrote that the explosion was meant to serve as a wake up call and that the country was terminally ill and headed toward collapse, The Associated Press reported. On Friday, Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh was asked if the military is doing enough to monitor the mental health of military members and veterans. We have a variety of resources available to our service members ... that include those resources available within the chain of command, (resources) available on base and, of course, we have the Military OneSource thats available online, said Singh. The Pentagon spokesperson added, You have to remember that the vast majority of men and women who serve in uniform do so every single day with honor, integrity and character while upholding their oath to protect and defend the Constitution. DOD report: Anxiety and depression most common mental health challenges Mental health disorders related to adjustment, anxiety and depression remain the most common diagnoses, according to the DOD report. Incidence rates for anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder increased substantially almost doubling from 2019 to 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Efforts to assist and treat service members, the report noted, should continue to promote help-seeking behavior to improve their psychological and emotional well-being and reduce the burden of mental health disorders especially as rates have been increasing since the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2019 and 2020 there was a temporary decline in the diagnoses of most mental health disorders in active duty military personnel between 2019 and 2022, corresponding with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. That trend among military personnel ran counter with national trends among civilians, which witnessed increases in adverse mental health conditions connected to the pandemic. That decrease may, instead, be related to service members choosing to defer care due to the pandemic, similar to temporary disruptions in routine and non-emergency medical care observed in the general U.S. population, according to the report. Overall, the Army had the highest rate of mental health disorders although the Navy accounted for the highest rates of depressive disorders, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Coast Guard accounted for the highest rates of acute stress disorders, according to the report. Over the past several years, the percentage of adults in the United States with anxiety and depression symptoms increased significantly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similar trends were observed among members of the armed forces. In the general U.S. population, a significant increase was seen in the percentage of adults with anxiety symptoms (from 15.6% to 18.2%, respectively) and depression symptoms (from 18.5% to 21.4%, respectively) between 2019 and 2022, the CDC reported. Higher PTSD rates for females, health care workers No surprise, the PTSD rates for active duty military members increased nearly six-fold from 2003 to 2008, likely reflecting the psychological effects exacted by Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PTSD rates increased in subsequent peacetime operations. From 2000 to 2011, PTSD rates were reportedly higher among men. In contrast, from 2019 to 2023, the incidence of PTSD in (active duty) females was consistently twice the rate of male counterparts, while also increasing with age. These findings likely reflect the changing demographics of the force, now representing increasing numbers of women, and may also be related to sex-specific differences in comorbid mental health disorders that can predispose (military personnel) to higher PTSD rates, the report stated. A C130 lands during rehearsal for the air show at Hill Air Force Base on Friday, June 28, 2024. | Marielle Scott, Deseret News Meanwhile, service members in health care occupations also represented high PTSD rates, potentially reflecting the psychological stresses inherent to many health care roles in both peace and wartime operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the alarming increases in documented mental health disorder diagnoses, the report noted that it may actually underestimate mental health disorder incidence if service members do not seek care or receive care. Another sobering statistic: In 2023, mental health disorders accounted for more hospital bed days than any other category contributing to over half (54.8%) of all hospital bed days among (active duty personnel). Promoting mental health care for those who serve Last September, the DOD established a policy articulating its commitment to promote mental health services within the ranks. This policy emphasizes unrestricted, non-stigmatizing access to mental health care services, including voluntary substance misuse education, as essential for maintaining the health and readiness of the total force, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Hill Air Force Base, the 75th Medical Groups website reassures airmen that help is available. The Military Health System has many resources available to help those who need it. Mental health service for active-duty service members served by the 75th Medical Group includes individual and family treatments, psychological assessments, medication management, crisis interventions and substance misuse services. Members of Utahs National Guard can utilize the SafeUT National Guard app designed to connect local service members with licensed mental health professionals. The SafeUT National Guard app provides a way for Utah Air and Army National Guard members, civilian personnel, and their families to connect to licensed mental health professionals trained to understand the unique challenges you face on a daily basis, according to the SafeUt website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, the Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource for all service members including veterans and members of the National Guard and Reserves even if they are not enrolled in Veterans Affairs benefits or health care. Call 988 and press 1, text 838255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net. Scotland Yard has threatened to dock the pay of police staff who insist on working from home, it has emerged. Civilian staff with operational duties have been told they need to be in the office a minimum of four days a week, while those in support roles have to be present on at least three out of five days. The new policy came into force on Monday and those workers who refuse to comply have been warned they risk disciplinary action, including having their pay docked for the time they work from home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 2,400 civilian police workers, including 999 call handlers and child protection officers, voted to take industrial action before Christmas after the Met announced the policy. A senior Scotland Yard source said Sir Mark Rowley, the Met Commissioner, felt strongly about the issue as indicated by the decision to threaten staff with reduced wages. They said he had no intention of backing down, adding that the force was confident that any industrial action would not impact services to the public. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: We have been engaging with our staff and the union for over a year on our new hybrid working policy and provided three months formal notice in advance of this coming into effect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will ensure we can continue to do our very best to serve London, whilst giving support staff the flexibility to work from home up to two days a week. The policy has now come into effect and those who do not comply with it may be in breach of their contract and may lose pay for the time that they work from home over the maximum permitted level for their role. A senior source said Sir Mark Rowley, the Met Commissioner, felt very strongly about the issue - Jaimi Joy/REUTERS He added: Of course, we are aware some of our staff may have legitimate reasons for not following the policy, due to agreed reasonable adjustments or an approved existing flexible working plan. We will continue to engage with our union and staff to settle this dispute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scotland Yard employs more than 11,000 civilian staff who perform a range of functions to support warranted officers. Those with operational duties include Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), 999 call handlers, vetting officers, intelligence officers and those working in child protection. Support functions include roles in human resources, finance and estate management. Since 2021, many civilian staff have enjoyed generous hybrid working arrangements, with some spending as few as two days a week in the office. However, as part of a drive across the Met to better support front-line officers and improve public confidence in the force, bosses asked staff to reduce the amount of time they spent working from home. Strike threat But the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union which represents almost 200,000 civil servants across Whitehall suggested that asking workers to come into the office was unreasonable and would subject them to the stress of the daily commute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December the union successfully balloted for strike action, and a week later members also announced their intention to ignore the directive. It is not clear how many staff may defy the new rules but a PCS union source said 700 members had taken part in an online rally on Monday to discuss the issue. The union has accused the Met of breaching the human rights of its workers with the threat over pay and has said it will complain to the Mayor of London and the Home Secretary. Fran Heathcote, the general secretary of the PCS union, said: This dispute is easy to resolve. But the employer must be willing to work with PCS to find a resolution that benefits everyone, instead of threatening its own workers with docked pay and disciplinary action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our members have demonstrated that their current blended approach works effectively and has had a positive impact on productivity. No evidence to the contrary has been provided by the employer. She added: To seek to change that approach without proper engagement with their own staff is short-sighted. We urge [the] MPS [Metropolitan Police Service] to ditch the threats and talk to PCS to end this dispute. 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) -- Meta Platforms Inc. will end third-party fact checking on its social media platforms in the US, letting users comment on posts accuracy with a community notes system it said will promote free expression. Most Read from Bloomberg Content moderation systems across the companys platforms, which include Facebook, Instagram and Threads, have gone too far, and are blocking users free expression too often, Joel Kaplan, Metas chief global affairs officer, said in a blog post on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Too much harmless content gets censored, too many people find themselves wrongly locked up in Facebook jail, and we are often too slow to respond when they do, said Kaplan, a former adviser to the George W. Bush White House who was named head of global affairs this month. The company will also make it easier for people who want to see more political posts to get additional content on their feeds. The move to remove the system that was set up in 2016 to combat viral hoaxes aligns Meta more closely with Elon Musks X, which also relies on user notes to police accuracy on the site. President-elect Donald Trump, who was temporarily banned from Facebook in the wake of the Jan. 6, 2021 US Capitol riot, has called the platform an enemy of the people and accused the tech company of censoring conservative voices. Trumps account was reinstated in 2023. At a press conference Tuesday at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump commended Meta for the elimination of outside fact-checking. Honestly I think theyve come a long way, he said. Asked if the company was responding to threats hes made Trump at one point last year threatened Zuckerberg with imprisonment the President-elect said, probably. Meta first began working third-party fact-checkers in 2017, when it signed contracts with PolitiFact, Snopes, ABC News, Factcheck.org and the Associated Press. At the time, the company said paying outside firms helped identify misinformation without making Facebook the arbiter of truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fact checkers biases showed up in the choices some made about what to fact check and how and too much legitimate political debate was muted, Kaplan said. One or two out of every 10 posts removed last month may have been taken down in error, he said in the post. To blame fact-checkers is a disappointing cop-out, said Neil Brown, president of the Poynter Institute, which runs Politifact. Facts are not censorship. Meta created the program and set the rules for the fact-checking program, and so always held the cards, he added. Its unfortunate that this decision comes in the wake of extreme political pressure from a new administration and its supporters, said Angie Drobnic Holan, director of the International Fact-Checking Network, which also worked with Meta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta will also move the trust and safety teams that review US content from California to Texas, to help remove the concern that biased employees are overly censoring content, Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg said on Threads. The companys efforts to remove other types of harmful content, including child sexual abuse material and terrorist propaganda, are handled separately from third-party fact checking. Paris-based Teleperformance and New Jersey-based Cognizant are among the companies contracted by social media platforms to review this type of content, in conjunction with internal content moderation teams. It may be more risky to remove fact checkers in the rest of the world, particularly Europe, where Meta is subject to European Union regulations requiring it to combat misinformation. The EU requires large platforms to actively cull deceptive political content and disinformation or risk heavy fines under the Digital Services Act. In response to emailed questions, Meta said there was no immediate plan to roll out the changes in the EU, and that any future change would be subject to a review of Metas obligations under EU law. --With assistance from Gian Volpicelli and Hadriana Lowenkron. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with comment from Trump in fifth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Mark Zuckerberg, chief executive officer of Meta Platforms Inc., during the Meta Connect event in Menlo Park, California, US, on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. Credit - David Paul Morris/Bloomberg Getty Images Less than two weeks before Donald Trump is reinstated as President, Meta is abandoning its fact-checking program in favor of a crowdsourced model that emphasizes free expression. The shift marks a profound change in how the company moderates content on its platformsand has sparked fierce debate over its implications for misinformation and hate speech online. Meta, which operates Facebook, Instagram and Threads, had long funded fact-checking efforts to review content. But many Republicans chafed against those policies, arguing that they were disproportionately stifling right-wing thought. Last year, Trump threatened Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg that he could "spend the rest of his life in prison if he attempted to interfere with the 2024 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Trumps electoral victory, Zuckerberg has tried to mend the relationship by donating $1 million (through Meta) to Trump's inaugural fund and promoting longtime conservative Joel Kaplan to become Metas new global policy chief. This policy change is one of the first major decisions to be made under Kaplans leadership, and follows the model of Community Notes championed by Trump ally Elon Musk at X, in which unpaid users, not third-party experts, police content. Zuckerberg, in a video statement, acknowledged that the policy change might mean that were going to catch less bad stuff. When asked at a press conference Tuesday if he thought Metas change was in response to his previous threats, Trump said, Probably. While conservatives and free-speech activists praised the decision, watchdogs and social media experts warned of its ripple effects on misinformation spread. This type of wisdom-of-the-crowd approach can be really valuable, says Valerie Wirtschafter, a fellow at the Brookings Institution. But doing so without proper testing and viewing its viability around scale is really, really irresponsible. Metas already having a hard time dealing with bad content as it is, and its going to get even worse. Read More: Heres How the First Fact-Checkers Were Able to Do Their Jobs Before the Internet Facebook and misinformation Metas checkered history with combating misinformation underscores the challenges ahead. In 2016, the company launched a fact-checking program amid widespread concerns over the platforms impact on the U.S. elections. Researchers would later uncover that the political analysis company Cambridge Analytica harvested the private data of more than 50 million Facebook users as part of a campaign to support Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of its new fact-checking program, Facebook relied on outside organizations like The Associated Press and Snopes to review posts and either remove them or add an annotation. But the companys efforts still fell short in many ways. In 2017, Amnesty International found that Metas algorithms and lack of content moderation substantially contributed to helping foment violence in Myanmar against the Rohingya people. In 2021, a study found that Facebook could have prevented billions of views on pages that shared misinformation related to the 2020 election, but failed to tweak its algorithms. Some of those pages glorified violence in the lead-up to the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, the study found. (Facebook called the reports methodology flawed.) The day after the Capitol riot, Zuckerberg banned Trump from Facebook, writing that the risks of allowing the President to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great. Read More: Facebook Acted Too Late to Tackle Misinformation on 2020 Election, Report Finds But as critics clamored for more moderation on Meta platforms, a growing contingent stumped for less. In particular, some Republicans felt that Metas fact-checking partners were biased against them. Many were particularly incensed when Facebook, under pressure from Biden Administration officials, cracked down against disputed COVID-19 information, including claims that the virus had man-made origins. Some U.S. intelligence officers subsequently supported the lab leak theory, prompting Facebook to reverse the ban. As criticism from both sides grew, Zuckerberg decided to reduce his risk by simply deprioritizing news on Meta platforms. Pivoting to Community Notes As Zuckerberg and Meta weathered criticism over their fact-checking tactics, billionaire Tesla CEO Musk bought Twitter in 2022 and took a different approach. Musk disbanded the companys safety teams and instead championed Community Notes, a system in which users collaboratively add context or corrections to misleading posts. Community Notes, Musk felt, was more populist, less biased, and far cheaper for the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twitter, which Musk quickly renamed X, ended free access to its API, making it harder for researchers to study how Community Notes impacted the spread of hate speech and misinformation on the platform. But several studies have been conducted on the topic, and they have been mixed in their findings. In May, one scientific study found that Community Notes on X were effective in combating misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines and citing high-quality sources when doing so. Conversely, the Center for Countering Digital Hate found in October that the majority of accurate community notes were not shown to all users, allowing the original false claims to spread unchecked. Those misleading posts, which included claims that Democrats were importing illegal voters and that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump, racked up billions of views, the study wrote. Now, Meta will attempt to replicate a similar system on its own platforms, starting in the U.S. Zuckerberg and Kaplan, in announcing the decision, did little to hide its political valence. Kaplan, previously George W. Bushs deputy chief of staff, announced the decision on Fox & Friends, and said it would reset the balance in favor of free expression. Zuckerberg, who recently visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago, contended in a video statement that the fact checkers have just been too politically biased, and have destroyed more trust than theyve created. He added that restrictions on controversial topics like immigration and gender would be removed. Metas announcement was received positively by Trump. I thought it was a very good news conference. Honestly, I think theyve come a long way, he said on Tuesday about the change. Metas decision may also alter the calculus for congressional Republicans who have been pushing to pass legislation cracking down on social media or attempting to re-write Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects tech platforms from lawsuits for content posted by their users. Many journalists and misinformation researchers responded with dismay. Facebook and Instagram users are about to see a lot more dangerous misinformation in their feeds, Public Citizen wrote on X. The tech journalist Kara Swisher wrote that Zuckerbergs scapegoating of fact-checkers was misplaced: Toxic floods of lies on social media platforms like Facebook have destroyed trust, not fact checkers, she wrote on Bluesky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wirtschafter, at the Brookings Institution, says that Metas pivot toward Community Notes isnt necessarily dangerous on its own. She wrote a paper in 2023 with Sharanya Majumder which found that although Xs Community Notes faced challenges in reaching consensus around political content, the programs quality improved as the company tinkered with itand as its contributor base expanded. It's a very nuanced program with a lot of refinement over years, she says. Meta, in contrast, seems to be rolling out the program with far less preparation, Wirtschafter says. Adding to the Metas challenge will be creating systems that are fine-tuned to each of Metas platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Threads are all distinct in their content and userbases. Meta already has a spam problem and an AI-generated content problem, Wirtschafter says. Content moderation is good for business in some sense: It helps clear some of that muck that Meta is already having a hard time dealing with as it is. Thinking that the wisdom-of-the-crowd approach is going to work immediately for the problems they face is pretty naive. Luca Luceri, a research assistant professor at the University of Southern California, says that Metas larger pivot away from content moderation, which Zuckerberg signaled in his announcement video, is just as concerning as the removal of fact-checking. The risk is that any form of manipulation can be exacerbated or amplified, like influence campaigns from foreign actors, or bots which can be used to write Community Notes, he says. And there are other forms of content besides misinformationfor instance, related eating disorders or mental health or self harmthat still need some moderation. The shift may also negatively impact the fact-checking industry: Metas fact-checking partnerships accounted for 45% of the total income of fact-checking organizations in 2023, according to Poynter. The end of those partnerships could deliver a significant blow to an already underfunded sector. Contact us at letters@time.com. Mark Zuckerberg announced in a video posted on Tuesday morning that Meta Platforms Inc. is rolling back its content moderation and fact-checking policies in a bid to restore free expression on the platform formerly known as Facebook, in what's sure to be a controversial move in the already fraught debate over information sharing on the platform. Zuckerberg lamented that as misinformation has spread online, governments and legacy media have pushed to censor more and more. Weve reached a point where its just too many mistakes and too much censorship, he continued. The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech. So were gonna get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies, and restoring free expression on our platforms. Meta will segue away from proper fact-checking as it adopts a community notes policy similar to what X (formerly Twitter) instituted after Elon Musk took over the company. Zuckerberg admitted that while bringing in fact checkers began as an earnest attempt at curbing misinformation, it didnt go as planned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting in the U.S. after Trump first got elected in 2016, the legacy media wrote non-stop about how misinformation was a threat to democracy, Zuckerberg said. We tried, in good faith, to address those concerns without becoming the arbiters of truth, but the fact checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than theyve created, especially in the U.S. Zuckerberg also revealed that hell be working directly with Trump to relieve restrictions on other social media sites across the globe, including places like China where Meta is banned. Were going to work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more, he said. The only way that we can push back on this global trend is with the support of the U.S. governmentnow we have the opportunity to restore free expression, and I am excited to take it. While its fact-checking program was controversial, Facebook has also come under fire in the past for allowing misinformation and hate speech to spread unchecked on its platforms, including some linked to ethnic and sectarian violence in countries like Myanmar and Ethiopia. The company has struggled to define its role in the information ecosystem, more recently drawing the ire of publishers after it chose to de-emphasize news and politics content altogether. Less than two weeks before the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, Meta is moving away from its third-party fact-checking program a cornerstone of its platforms since 2016 in an effort to return to its fundamental commitment to free expression, the company said in a statement on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and Threads, will switch to a "Community Notes" model, similar to Elon Musks X, which will allow more speech by lifting restrictions on some topics that are part of the mainstream discourse, the company said. "Were also going to change how we enforce our policies to reduce the kind of mistakes that account for the vast majority of the censorship on our platforms. Up until now, we have been using automated systems to scan for all policy violations, but this has resulted in too many mistakes and too much content being censored that shouldnt have been." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a video that the company is "going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms." Related: Mark Zuckerberg Rings in the New Year with Wife Priscilla Chan: Here's to Even Bigger Things in 2025 Zuckerberg added Meta will take a more personalized approach to political content but noted the new guidelines are a trade-off. "It means that were going to catch less bad stuff, but well also reduce the number of innocent peoples posts and accounts that we accidentally take down, he said. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. In an appearance on Fox News' Fox & Friends on Tuesday, Metas new global policy chief Joel Kaplan explained that there was too much political bias in the current fact-checking program, according to the The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new guidelines will also affect Metas trust and safety content moderation teams, which are currently based in California and will be moved to Texas. Related: Shark Tanks Kevin OLeary Says Hes Nearing Deal to Buy TikTok This will help remove the concern that biased employees are overly censoring content, Zuckerberg wrote about the teams impending move. According to the company, "Community Notes" will be phased in over the next couple of months. As we make the transition, we will get rid of our fact-checking control, stop demoting fact checked content and, instead of overlaying full screen interstitial warnings you have to click through before you can even see the post, we will use a much less obtrusive label indicating that there is additional information for those who want to see it, the company wrote. Read the original article on People PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Service at eight bus stops in Oxon Hill is set to be discontinued, according to an announcement from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) on Monday. For around 50 years, Metro has utilized the P12 bus route, which includes four stops between Southern Avenue and Wheeler Hills Road. The stops are located within the Forest Hill Apartment Complex. As a result of a cease-and-desist letter sent from the complexs property owner, on Sunday, Jan. 12, Metro will stop servicing the four stops located within the complex and an additional four stops on Wheeler Hills Road, as they will no longer be accessible without going through the Forest Hill property, according to WMATA. A map of the stops that are set to be discontinued. (Courtesy: The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) In the letter, the firm representing the complex said the buses have caused significant damages to the asphalt roads on the property. The letter also alleged that WMATA has refused to repair the damages to the roads despite multiple conversations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fort Washington woman killed after colliding into home Metro noted that the change will affect around 150 riders who board and exit at these stops during the week, including residents of the Forest Hill complex and the nearby Homes at Oxon Hill Senior Apartments. Customers are encouraged to board the bus at the following nearby locations: Southern Avenue and United Medical Center Southern Avenue and 13 Street Wheeler Road and Vermillion Avenue Riders can visit wmata.com/MetroPulse for real-time service information. To sign up for service alerts, 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. NEW MEXICO (KRQE) Happy birthday, New Mexico! Today, the Land of Enchantment is celebrating its 113th anniversary of statehood. With a rich history and culture spanning thousands of years, this milestone is worth celebrating. New Mexicos first known inhabitants were the members of the Clovis culture of Paleo-Indians. Footprints discovered in 2017 suggest humans were possibly present in the region as long ago as 21,000-23,000 BCE. The Mogollon and Ancestral Pueblo cultures, which are distinguished by their fine ceramics and urbanization, are instances of later occupants; Pueblos or their ruins, such as those at Acoma, Taos, and Chaco Culture National Historical Park, demonstrate the scope of Ancestral Puebloan residences in the vicinity. The Ancestral Puebloans extensive trading networks gave rise to tales of an enigmatic northern empire rivaling Mesoamerica and the Aztec Empire, which they dubbed Yancuic Mexico, translating to a new Mexico. Visitors approach Pueblo Bonito, the largest archeological site at the Chaco Culture National Historical Park, in northwestern New Mexico, on Saturday, August 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Cedar Attanasio) The story of the Seven Cities of Gold, which sparked Spanish conquistadors exploration after their conquest of the Aztecs in the early 16th century, was primarily based on Aztec traditions about a thriving empire to their north. In 1610, the Spanish established a permanent capital at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in what is now Santa Fe. The Spanish were expelled by the Pueblo Revolt at the end of the 17th century, and these early cities were occupied for more than ten years. The region returned to Spanish administration following the passing of the Pueblo leader Pope. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the Mexican War of Independence, the province of New Mexico joined the First Mexican Empire in 1821 as part of New Spain. Mexico ceded the United States its northern territories, including California, Texas, and New Mexico, after the United States won the MexicanAmerican War (184648). Both the Confederate and Union governments asserted ownership and territorial claims over New Mexico Territory at the start of the American Civil War in 1861. Map of the United States and Mexico Border (Adobe Stock) On January 6th, 1912, New Mexico was admitted by Congress into the United States as the 47th state. In 1926, Route 66 paved the way across the state. There was a huge influx of both people and money in the 1940s. In 1945, the worlds first atomic bomb was tested and detonated at the Trinity site in the desert between Socorro and Alamogordo as the culmination of the Manhattan Project, the top-secret strategy employed by the United States during World War II to combat Nazi Germany. New Mexicos contributions to ending the Second World War didnt stop there. The Navajo Code Talkers first joined the Marines in 1942, transmitting messages using a code based on their then-unwritten native language to puzzle Japanese military cryptologists. Through 1945, the Code Talkers took part in every attack the Marines led in the Pacific, including those on Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Peleliu, and Iwo Jima. They accurately transmitted thousands of messages detailing Japanese army movements, tactical strategies, and other communications that were essential to the conclusion of the war. A Navajo Code Talker Marine in 1943. From National Archives Then came something New Mexico is synonymous with: aliens. The 1947 United States Army Air Forces balloon debris found close to Roswell is the subject of a conspiracy theory known as the Roswell incident, arguing that the debris was actually an alien spaceship that crashed. To this day, visitors from all over the country come to see it for themselves at events such as the Roswell UFO Festival. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state rose to new heights in 1972. Albuquerque hosted the worlds first balloon fiesta, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022. Up to 550 balloons may ascend simultaneously during the worlds finest hot air balloon event. 800,000 people attend the nine-day celebration, which is also one of the most photographed events worldwide. Balloon Fiesta 2024 | Maggie Branch, KRQE Social Media Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Growth and innovation were major trends in the 1990s and early 2000s. Officials began construction on the Spaceport in 2007. Virgin Galactic would strive to bring people to space for the next seventeen years. In 2021, they finally succeeded. Another significant moment for the state occurred in 2018 when Netflix opted to buy Albuquerque Studios, followed by NBC Universal setting up shop the next year. New Mexico has since developed into a major film market. With a story that spans much longer than 113 years, the Land of Enchantment stands out as a truly unique place. New Mexicans continue to push boundaries, reach new milestones, and make history to this day. Heres to all the future birthdays New Mexico will celebrate. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP) About 100 migrants from various countries wandered directionless and disoriented through the streets of the troubled Pacific coast resort of Acapulco. After walking for a couple weeks through southern Mexico with hundreds of other migrants, they accepted an offer from immigration officials to come to Acapulco with the idea they could continue their journey north toward the U.S. border. Instead, they found themselves stuck on Monday. Two weeks ahead of President-elect Donald Trumps second inauguration, Mexico continues dissolving attention-grabbing migrant caravans and dispersing migrants throughout the country to keep them far from the U.S. border, while simultaneously limiting how many accumulate in any one place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy of dispersion and exhaustion has become the center of the Mexican governments immigration policy in recent years and last year succeeded in significantly reducing the number of migrants reaching the U.S. border, said Tonatiuh Guillen, former chief of Mexicos immigration agency. Mexicos current administration hopes that the lower numbers will give them some defense from Trumps pressures, said Guillen, who left the administration of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador after Trump threatened to impose tariffs over migration during his first presidency. Acapulco would seem to be a strange destination for migrants. Once a crown jewel of Mexicos tourism industry, the city now suffers under the thumb of organized crime and is still struggling to climb back after taking a direct hit from devastating Hurricane Otis in 2023. On Monday, Mexican tourists enjoyed the final hours of their holiday beach vacations while migrants slept in the street or tried to find ways to resume their journeys north. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigration (officials) told us they were going to give us a permit to transit the country freely for 10, 15 days and it wasnt like that, said a 28-year-old Venezuelan, Ender Antonio Castaneda. They left us dumped here without any way to get out. They wont sell us (bus) tickets. They wont sell us anything. Castaneda, like thousands of other migrants, had left the southern city of Tapachula near the Guatemalan border. More than a half dozen caravans of about 1,500 migrants each have set out from Tapachula in recent weeks, but none of them made it very far. Authorities let them walk for days until theyre exhausted and then offer to bus them to various cities where they say their immigration status will be reviewed, which could mean any number of things. Some have landed in Acapulco, where about a dozen sleep at a Catholic church near the immigration agency offices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several dozen gathered outside the offices Monday looking for information, but no one would tell them anything. Castaneda, who had just received money from his family and was desperate to leave, picked a van driver he judged to be the most trustworthy among various offering rides for up to five times the normal price for a bus ticket to Mexico City Some migrants have discovered the permits authorities give them allow them to travel only within the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located. Other migrants have better luck. On Sunday, the latest migrant caravan broke up after hundreds received free transit permits to go anywhere in Mexico for a specified number of days. Cuban Dayani Sanchez, 33, and her husband were among them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were a little scared by the lack of safety getting on buses, that theyre going to stop us, she said. Mexicos drug cartels frequently target migrants for kidnapping and extortion, though many migrants say authorities extort them too. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum insists her immigration strategy has a humanitarian focus, and has allowed more migrants to leave southernmost Mexico. But some migration advocates note that migrants are being taken to violent areas. Its a concern shared by the Rev. Leonardo Morales, the priest at the Catholic church in Acapulco near the immigration agency office. He said that in November two or three immigration agency buses arrived with migrants, including entire families. Last weekend, two more arrived carrying all adults. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though Acapulco isnt on the usual migration route and was unprepared to receive migrants, several priests have coordinated support for them with water, food and clothing. We know theyre going through a very difficult time, with a lot of needs, they arrive without money, Morales said. Migrants quickly realize that finding work in Acapulco is difficult. After Otis destruction, the federal government sent hundreds of soldiers and National Guard troops to provide security and start reconstruction. Last year, another storm, John, brought widespread flooding. But violence in Acapulco hasnt relented. Acapulco has one of Mexicos highest rates of homicides. Cab drivers and small business owners complain anonymously of rising extortion. Large companies have balked at rebuilding under the current circumstances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Honduran Jorge Neftali Alvarenga was grateful to have escaped the Mexican state of Chiapas along the Guatemalan border, but was already disillusioned. To an extent they lied to us, said Alvarenga, who thought he was going to Mexico City. We asked for an agreement to send us to (Mexico City) for work or other places like Monterrey, an industrial city in the north with more work opportunities. Now he doesnt know what to do. ___ Associated Press writer Edgar H. Clemente in Tapachula, Mexico, contributed to this report. Shown are bags of heroin, some laced with fentanyl, on display before a press conference on a major drug bust, at the office of the New York Attorney General, Sept. 23, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Drew Angerer / Getty Images) Fewer New Mexicans died from drug overdoses for the second straight year in a row, according to mortality data released Tuesday. The highest rate, recorded in 2021, was 1,029 deathsroughly three people per day, according to the New Mexico Department of Health. Since then, rates have decreased roughly 4% each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, New Mexico recorded 997 overdose deaths, which fell to 948 in 2023, the latest year on record. Nonetheless, New Mexico death rates from substance use remain among the highest in the nation, a consistent pattern for more than 20 years. Public health officials celebrated the decrease in a news release, but Gina DeBlassie, interim secretary for the states health department, said more work is needed. These decreases are welcome news, but there is still much more to do to reduce the problem of substance misuse in New Mexico, DeBlassie said in a written statement. Substance misuse is a multifaceted and complex public health issue, and we need to continue to aggressively attack this problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robert Nott, a spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Health, said the cause of the decline is unknown. He pointed to the increase in recent years to enhance awareness and provide tools to keep New Mexicans who are at risk for an overdose, safer. More than half of the deaths were attributed to fentanyl overdose in 2023, while methamphetamine was involved in 51% of deaths. About 30% of the deaths involved both substances. New Mexicans aged 25-64 accounted for 84% of the deaths, with fewer than 10 deaths occurring in people younger than 15 or older than 75 years of age. About 26% of the deaths were in the age range of 35-44 years. Some New Mexico counties are experiencing higher rates of overdose deaths, according to the states health authority, including Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Rio Arriba and San Miguel counties, which exceeded the statewide age-adjusted rate of 46.3 deaths per 100,000 people. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A pro-Trump mob breaks into the U.S. Capitol on January 06, 2021 in Washington, DC. Congress held a joint session today to ratify President-elect Joe Biden's 306-232 Electoral College win over President Donald Trump. A group of Republican senators said they would reject the Electoral College votes of several states unless Congress appointed a commission to audit the election results. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) Michigan elected officials had plenty to say about the Detroit Lions winning the NFC North division title Sunday night heading into the playoffs. But fewer weighed in on the fourth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol by supporters of now-President-elect Donald Trump that halted the 2020 presidential certification and left five dead and 140 police officers injured, and resulted in almost $3 million in damages to the U.S. Capitol. While Republican officials largely have ignored past anniversaries, many Democrats have voiced their criticism in past years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday marks the first Jan. 6 anniversary since Trump was reelected and Washington, D.C., was quiet as Congress certified the 2024 election. With Trump set to be inaugurated in less than two weeks, there were far fewer statements from officials about Jan. 6, 2021. A Whitmer spokesperson didnt respond to a request for comment on Monday about the Jan. 6 anniversary. Heres a roundup of some Michigan politicos who did mark the event. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat whos expected to run for governor in 2026, said that Jan. 6 is a reminder that democracy is fragile. Our democracy was tested on this day four years ago and the strength of the will of the people was under attack. We proved that freedom will endure, and that day in history serves as a reminder: that democracy is fragile. We must always be ready to defend it, she wrote on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) was just sworn in for her second term. Four years ago, we watched as a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to disrupt our democracy. Its a moment we shouldnt forget. Democracy only works when WE work for it together. Im working to protect our democracy and get things done for the people of MI-03, Scholten said. State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) invoked George Orwells 1984 while taking aim at Republicans. GOP is here w/Jan 6 denialism: The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command. George Orwell, 1984 Jan 6 was a violent insurrection incited by Trump. Dozens of police injured defending the Capitol. It happened, she said. GOP is here w/Jan 6 denialism: The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command. George Orwell, 1984 Jan 6 was a violent insurrection incited by Trump. Dozens of police injured defending the Capitol. It happened. Betsy Coffia (@BetsyCoffia) January 6, 2025 U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) posted a photo she took in the Capitol during the riot four years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement January 6th, 2021. I took this picture. I was there. It was awful. Police officers were attacked. Capitol staff and Congresspeople hid, fearing for their lives. Death and injury occurred- at a workplace that is also the nations Capitol, Stevens said. January 6th, 2021. I took this picture. I was there. It was awful. Police officers were attacked. Capitol staff and Congresspeople hid, fearing for their lives. Death and injury occurred- at a workplace that is also the nations Capitol. pic.twitter.com/h1SMqDnCjH Rep. Haley Stevens (@RepHaleyStevens) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Twp.) said the anniversary is a reminder that Americans must preserve democratic traditions. While we remember the anniversary of January 6 and the victims of 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 we remember the anniversary of January 6 and the victims of 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. pic.twitter.com/wwK5SPPspE Senator Gary Peters (@SenGaryPeters) January 6, 2025 New state Rep. Stephen Wooden (D-Grand Rapids) called out MAGA Republicans for the insurrection. Four years ago, MAGA extremists tried to sabotage an election through insurrection. Thankfully, heroes of all kinds stopped them. From Capitol police who stood in peril to protect others, to Senate staff who protected ballot boxes, heroes from all walks of life saved the day, he said. Four years ago, MAGA extremists tried to sabotage an election through insurrection. Thankfully, heroes of all kinds stopped them. From Capitol police who stood in peril to protect others, to Senate staff who protected ballot boxes, heroes from all walks of life saved the day. pic.twitter.com/OvFvQAfcFq Stephen Wooden (@VoteWooden) January 7, 2025 Mitch Rivard, who served as chief of staff for former U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint), posted a thread about what he and the congressman endured during the attack on the U.S. Capitol four years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being in the Capitol on #January6th was a scary experience. I still think about it often. Even more troubling is that some, including our next President, choose to downplay, dismiss & lie about what happened that day. I was there w/@RepDanKildee and saw it with my own eyes, Rivard wrote. Being in the Capitol on #January6th was a scary experience. I still think about it often. Even more troubling is that some, including our next President, choose to downplay, dismiss & lie about what happened that day. I was there w/ @RepDanKildee and saw it with my own eyes. pic.twitter.com/NbKWPsqVms Mitchell Rivard (@mitchellrivard) January 6, 2025 State Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) posted a photo calling police officers at the Capitol patriots and rioters traitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That elicited a response from former Michigan Republican Party Co-Chair Meshawn Maddock, who is vying to become the partys next leader. She attended a Trump rally in D.C. on Jan. 5, 2021, with her spouse, state Rep. Matt Maddock (R-White Lake), and is facing state charges along with 14 others in the fake elector case stemming from the 2020 election. Ya no worries we wont, Meshawn Maddock wrote. State Rep. Josh Schriver (R-Oxford), who had his office and staff stripped by former Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) last year for posting about Great Replacement theory, was one of the few Republicans to acknowledge the Jan. 6 anniversary. He marked the occasion by calling on Trump to pardon those convicted of crimes, calling them political prisoners. Happy January 6th! May every single J6 Political Prisoner be pardoned. Happy Epiphany! May Christ continue to light, to guard, to rule and guide. AMEN, Schriver wrote on social media. Happy January 6th! May every single J6 Political Prisoner be pardoned. Happy Epiphany! May Christ continue to light, to guard, to rule and guide. AMEN Rep. Josh Schriver (@JoshuaSchriver) January 6, 2025 SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Tiny particles from clothing, packaging and other plastic products are ending up in Oregon seafood, according to a new Portland State University study. The PSU research team conducted the study to better understand microplastic contamination in Oregon finfish and shellfish, which can make their way onto peoples plates. Overall, the researchers said microplastics in Oregon seafood are widespread and were found in a vast majority of the seafood samples in the study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: New luxury hotel proposed for Oregon Coast property with $3 million view During the study, the team looked at anthropogenic particles the materials made or modified by humans found in the edible tissue of six marine species that are culturally or economically important to Oregon including black rockfish, lingcod, Chinook salmon, Pacific herring, Pacific lamprey, and pink shrimp. Researchers compared microplastic concentrations among the species and any differences among species acquired from research fishing vessels compared to samples acquired from supermarkets and seafood vendors. According to the study, 1,806 suspected microplastic particles were found in 180 of 182 samples of the fish and shrimp. The only two fish without any detected microplastics were a Pacific herring ana lingcod the team acquired from a fishing vessel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Wilson backtracks on city workers office return Pink shrimp which filter-feed right below the surface of the water had the highest concentrations of microplastics and Chinook salmon had the lowest concentrations, followed by rockfish and lingcod, researchers discovered. We found that the smaller organisms that we sampled seem to be ingesting more anthropogenic, non-nutritious particles, said Elise Granek, lead researcher and PSU professor of environmental science and management. Shrimp and small fish, like herring, are eating smaller food items like zooplankton. Other studies have found high concentrations of plastics in the area in which zooplankton accumulate and these anthropogenic particles may resemble zooplankton and thus be taken up for animals that feed on zooplankton. Initially, the researchers expected the processing from catch to consumer would lead to additional contaminants from plastic packaging meant to preserve seafood; however, this wasnt true across the seafood samples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the study, researchers rinsed off the fish fillets and shrimp to replicate how most people prepare them, which suggests any additional contamination on the fish could be removed with rinsing. However, the study found, evidence of the widespread presence of particles in the edible tissues of Oregons marine and freshwater species. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KOIN Morning Digest Its very concerning that microfibers appear to move from the gut into other tissues such as muscle, said Susanne Brander, an associate professor at Oregon State University who helped analyze suspected plastics in her lab. This has wide implications for other organisms, potentially including humans too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the findings, the researchers note they are not advocating for people to stay away from seafood because microplastics are found everywhere from bottled water, beer, and honey, to beef, chicken, and veggie burgers. If we are disposing of and utilizing products that release microplastics, those microplastics make their way into the environment, and are taken up by things we eat, Granek said. What we put out into the environment ends up back on our plates. To reduce exposure to microplastics, the team recommends consumers buy whole local fish whenever possible. For seafood handlers, the team recommends finding alternatives to plastic packaging and instead using natural materials made from beeswax, starches, or sugars. Next, the team said future studies should explore how microplastics get into muscle tissue and say public policy should regulate anthropogenic particles. 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 KOIN.com. (NewsNation) Sources in Mexico tell NewsNation a caravan of migrants has just taken off from Tapachula, Mexico, with hundreds heading north to Chiapas, Mexico, on foot. The majority of migrants are Venezuelan, sources say. The ultimate destination is reportedly Juarez, Mexico, located just miles from the border, and El Paso, Texas. Its the 10th such caravan to form in the southern municipality since October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New international rail bridge milestone connecting Laredo, Texas, to Mexico completed According to Mexican immigration authorities, they expect even more of these caravans to form and depart in the coming days before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump and his border czar, Tom Homan, have promised to carry out mass deportations on a historical scale, decrying sanctuary cities and their leaders who plan to oppose such actions. The chances of the caravan reaching the United States southern border are slim to none as Mexican immigration authorities continue to step up their efforts to deter and block migrant groups from even reaching Mexico City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sources tell NewsNation authorities have dubbed this Operation Carousel and that they are breaking up migrant groups and negotiating with them to travel to other Mexican states. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has addressed the issue of deportations prior to Trumps second term, making a surprising reversal on previous policy promises. Last month, Sheinbaum said Mexico would push the United States to send non-Mexican deportees to their countries of origin now, shes announced that Mexico is open to accepting foreign nationals. Border patrol to be front and center at inauguration parade The stance shift comes as the Mexican government promises to open 25 new shelters to house deported migrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigration attorney Rolando Vazquez, who primarily represents Venezuelan nationals, said these shelters will lead to self-deporting from Mexico. These foreign nationals are going to find it more desirable to be in their home country than it is to be in Mexico, and theyll eventually go back to their home country, Vazquez said. And thats what weve seen in the past in the last Trump administration when they implemented the MPP program. Sources in Tijuana and Matamoros tell NewsNation they expect migrants to rush the border in the final days before Trumps inauguration, as they fear the CBP One app will end at that point. CBP told NewsNation it is aware of the migrant caravan. It monitors such groups several times a year, a spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These reported caravans generally travel very slowly and often splinter before they make progress moving northbound towards the Southwest Border, a CBP spokesperson said. Nevertheless, CBP will continue to monitor developments in coordination with our foreign and interagency counterparts as we have with previous movements of migrants. The fact remains: the United States continues to enforce immigration law, and our borders are not open for those without a legal basis to enter the country, the spokesperson 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 NewsNation. Four migrants were found crammed into a 6ft by 3ft hidden compartment in a van during an attempt to smuggle them into Britain. The group were discovered squeezed into the wooden construction, which was hidden behind a stack of dirty tyres as part of an operation by people smugglers Shafaz Khan and Choudhry Rashied. The vehicle was stopped by Border Force staff at a ferry port in Newhaven, East Sussex, where the duo claimed they were travelling back from Belgium with a collection of used tyres. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, suspicious officers searched the van and discovered the migrants in what the Home Office described as squalid and dangerous conditions hidden behind the heavy tyres with no access to clean air. An investigation established that Khan and Rashied had hired the van solely for people smuggling and had built the compartment for that purpose. Phone analysis revealed the pair had assigned burner phones to each other in an attempt to conceal their crimes. CCTV traced them to a local cafe where they met to plan the operation. The compartment was hidden in the back of the van behind a stack of used tyres On Tuesday, Khan, 55, from Feltham, west London, and Rashied, 58, from Southall, west London, were both sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court to five years and three months in prison for conspiring to facilitate illegal entry into the UK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dame Angela Eagle, the borders minister, said: This case displays the lengths people smugglers will go to to disguise their criminal activity. These smugglers exploited a group of individuals by putting them into an unsafe and unlawful situation for their own financial gain. Our skilled investigators are working tirelessly to protect our borders as part of our Plan for Change and that starts with dismantling the people smuggling networks who put lives at risk and undermine our border security. Shafaz Khan (left) and Choudhry Rashied were both sentenced to five years and three months in prison Chris Foster, the immigration enforcement regional lead at the Home Office, added: Both Khan and Rashied sold these vulnerable individuals a dream and promised them a safe journey and prosperous life in the UK, which was far from the truth. The people-smuggling gangs are playing with peoples lives and undermining our border security, we will not just watch on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are stepping up our enforcement efforts to break the business model of the criminal networks that operate in the UK and Europe. Todays sentencing sends a clear message to the criminals, if you get involved in people smuggling, youre likely to spend a lengthy time behind bars. It comes after a Romanian people smuggler was jailed for three years in February 2024 after he was caught attempting to enter the UK with seven migrants crammed into his vans one-man sleeping compartment. The same month a man was also jailed for two years and eight months after attempting to smuggle 12 people into the UK on a dangerously overcrowded yacht. It came just weeks after another people smuggler was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for cramming a Vietnamese woman behind the dashboard of his car. 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 number of beneficiaries in the Tricare West Region are off to a rocky start with the new contractor, TriWest Healthcare Alliance, citing problems with its website and customer service lines as they try to verify health care coverage and provide payment information. Now that it is January and TriWest is the official contractor for the West region, this has graduated from an annoyance to a major issue, said Stevie Roach, an Air Force retiree whose son is on the Tricare Young Adults plan. Retired Marine Paul King called the transition a fiasco, citing problems with TriWests website and the inability to get through to a customer service representative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are left being unsure if we have coverage after the end of January, King said. On Jan. 1, two new Tricare contracts began. While the East Region contractor Humana Military remained the same, TriWest took over the West Region. As a result, West Region beneficiaries who make recurring payments by credit card, debit card or electronic funds transfer must provide their payment information to TriWest, except for those enrolled in Tricare for Life, a Tricare plan overseas or U.S. Family Health Plan. Tricare officials have said that beneficiaries who dont provide their payment information to TriWest risk losing health care coverage, with the original Dec. 31 deadline now extended to Jan. 15 for beneficiaries enrolled in Tricare Young Adult, Tricare Reserve Select and Tricare Retired Reserve plans, and Jan. 30 for Tricare Select and Tricare Prime. However, an unknown number of beneficiaries have reported problems with setting up payments. Frustrated with the website, theyve tried calling the customer service lines, with some telling Military Times theyve spent hours on the phone trying to get through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For at least one beneficiary who contacted Military Times, this issue is not simply a matter of missing an annual checkup because of possibly losing coverage. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous, said the hiccups could potentially affect two all-day appointments for critical brain and brain stem scans slated for early February. As of Monday, about 59% of beneficiaries who need to provide their payment information have successfully done so, according to TriWest officials. Tricare West beneficiaries granted more time for payment updates Some beneficiaries like Roach, meanwhile, are questioning the effectiveness of the year-long transition to TriWest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After setting up an online account well ahead of the Dec. 31 deadline, Roach tried logging in, but got repeated error messages. After calling TriWest, They told me that many users had reported this same error, he told Military Times. They said it was a problem with their back-end connectivity with DEERS [the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System] and that I should wait a few weeks and then try again. Roach did again receiving error messages and called TriWest. This time, TriWest updated the payment information over the phone. However, Roach still cant get into the website. I have literally tried every day, and I get the same error every day, Roach wrote, noting the difficulty in accessing Tricare-related details as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responding to questions from Military Times, TriWest officials in an email said the contractor is closely monitoring its customer service lines and has implemented a plan to adjust staffing levels quickly to address increases in call volumes. As a result, call hold times are being addressed and we continue to see them decrease each day, they added. On Monday, officials implemented a change that gives callers the option after 15 minutes on hold to keep their place in line and receive a call back instead of continuing to hold. Still, officials said the quickest way for a beneficiary to make a payment or view enrollment information is an online self-service portal available at www.tricare.mil/west. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several improvements were made recently to the portal to help enhance the beneficiary experience, officials stated, including addressing an issue involving enrolling beneficiaries in the wrong plan. One beneficiary told Military Times that TriWest had mistakenly enrolled them in Tricare Retired Reserve instead of their current Tricare Reserve Select, which increased their monthly premiums by over $1,200. The beneficiary said his wife had been on hold with their call center for over four hours over the previous few days, unable to talk to anyone. TriWest officials said some letters had been mailed to beneficiaries with the wrong information despite the beneficiary being enrolled in the correct plan. Corrections to those letters were emailed to affected beneficiaries Friday, and corrected letters are being sent, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a transition of this size and scale, challenges will arise, Tricare officials told Military Times. Our commitment is to identify areas for improvement and execute a plan to address them expeditiously. While some issues may take time to resolve, we are confident in our ability to develop solutions and ensure a successful outcome given our 28-year history of providing excellent service to our nations military and veterans. King, the retired Marine, told Military Times that when he is logged into DEERS and selects the TriWest link, it takes me to Tricare for Life, which I am not that age yet. He tried to contact the Defense Manpower Data Centers support center for DEERS. Their default message indicates they are aware of the problem but refer us back to TriWest to try to resolve it, he said. After repeated attempts to get through to TriWests call center, King finally got through on Monday, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was informed that their payment system is down so they could not verify whether our payment was current in their system, King said. We opted to print off, complete and express ship the TriWest payment form to their Virginia address to ensure our payment data is in their system. ... The office should be held accountable for the adverse impact to Tricare West beneficiaries. We fear the next shoe to drop will be TriWests handling of claims. A Milwaukee police officer shot and injured a 19-year-old man on Monday night. The shooting happened at 9:37 p.m. on the 2500 block of South 7th Street as two officers were communicating with the suspect of a sexual assault of a child, the Milwaukee Police Department said in a news release. The suspect drew a firearm and the three then struggled over it, with one officer shooting the suspect during the struggle, police said. The 19-year-old was arrested and taken to a hospital for treatment, police said in the release. The man was also wanted for child enticement, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer who fired his gun, a 35-year-old man with over eight years as a police officer, was placed on administrative duty. The department's homicide unit is investigating the incident, police said. The department will release video of it within 15 days, the timeframe required by a recently enacted policy. David Clarey can be reached at dclarey@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee police shoot and injure 19-year-old on Monday night Before Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, picked up a hammer and nails to frame out Cecelia "Cece" Dukulys home in 1989, Dukuly was familiar with the 39th president from her time as a teen living in Liberia. The West African country is a former colony of the United States and presidents, including Carter, often made state visits there. Dukuly remembers those visits. Years later, when she immigrated to this country, Dukuly never imagined she would meet, let alone work alongside, Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carters, who long put their faith into action, were in Milwaukee in June 1989 as part of a Habitat for Humanity project building homes. They, along with scores of volunteers, hammered, sawed and painted to construct six homes near North 23rd and West Walnut streets. The homes are still there. So are a few of the original owners, including Dukuly. Milwaukee's Cecelia "Cece" Dukuly displays a newspaper clipping and other mementos of the visit of former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, to the city to construct six homes for the nonprofit Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. Carter, who made several trips to the state during his political career and humanitarian work, died Dec. 29 in Georgia. He was 100. She remembers vividly those seven days when the former president came to build the home where shes now raising her grandchildren. My first time getting close to him to see him was when he came to build my house, said Dukuly, who recalled Carter as friendly, just a regular person who spoke to everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He helped a lot of people that were in need. He went to different countries to build houses. It is Gods work. Carter, who made several significant visits to Wisconsin during his political career and humanitarian work, died Dec. 29 in Georgia. He was 100. The whole world is mourning for him now," Dukuly said. "He was a great guy. His body is gone but his soul is still here." A steadying hand is provided by Cecelia Dukuly as former President Jimmy Carter saws lumber at the Habitat for Humanity construction site in Milwaukee in 1989. When Dukuly settled in Milwaukee in 1981, homeownership was elusive. She lived with an older brother and his family, six people cramped in a duplex with a single bathroom. She worked hard, eventually opening a restaurant and doing catering gigs serving foods inspired by her home country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She longed for a place to call her own and for her two sons, who were then still in Liberia. Thats when a friend and restaurant patron signed her up for Milwaukee Habitat for Humanitys homeownership program. Volunteering to build her home and others was the sweat-equity down payment to become a homeowner and a chance to meet the Carters. I never knew I was going to have a home, she said. It is a gift that God gave me and he went through Jimmy Carter to do this for me. She returned the favor. In 2001, Dukuly volunteered to help build 35 Habitat homes in Carters hometown of Plains, Georgia. Former President Jimmy Carters wife, Rosalynn (left), and Milwaukee resident Cece Dukuly work on Dukulys home in June 1989. Seana Teasleys home is just a few doors down from Dukulys and another of the six constructed during that time. Though the Carters mostly worked on Dukulys, Teasley remembers both the former president and his wife helped on her build. They even sat down for lunch together, as he did with the other homeowners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was something like surreal for me, Teasley said. You will never think just an ordinary person (like me) would actually be sitting down and having lunch with a former president and helping to build their home. He was easy to talk to. You would forget he was a former president because he was very welcoming. The encounter left an impression on Teasley. Talking with Carter about his time in the U.S. Navy stirred memories for her. She served four years in the Army after graduating high school. In 2001, she decided to reenlist. We lost a great person because he was willing to give back to the community, Teasley said. Hes done more than what most former presidents have down as far as giving back to the people. He stands for what he believes in. Former President Jimmy Carter greeted spectators at the Habitat for Humanity construction site in Milwaukee in 1989. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having the Carters do a build was a major coup for Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity. The local affiliate for the national nonprofit was only five years old when the Carters came to the city. The organization had no paid staff, only volunteers, and before that June in 1989 had only rehabbed homes. The six new homes were the organizations first new build. Other than that, we were totally prepared for a visit by the president, quipped Brian Sonderman, Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity CEO. He knew we were an organization that was very new. But I dont know if he knew we had no kind of construction (experience) at the time. But he just jumped right in, Sonderman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The visit changed the trajectory of the fledgling Milwaukee chapter. The organization went from an all-volunteer staff to a paid one and began building more homes. The Carters, Sonderman said, put Milwaukee Habitat on the map locally and the media exposure spurred on a thousand volunteers to come out that week to help build the homes. Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, tour the Habitat for Humanity project site at North 23rd and West Walnut streets in June 1989. They worked with local contractors and volunteers to create a house design and then drafted a plan to build them in one week. Also, eight homes were rehabbed in the Walnut Hill neighborhood. It gave us the capacity to do things that the organization hadnt been able to accomplish before, Sonderman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carters involvement affected not just Milwaukee Habitat but the national organization. Begun in 1976, the national organization was doing good work but had little exposure, Sonderman said. That changed when, in 1984, the Carters started volunteering and raising money. He put his own reputation on the line by aligning with Habitat for Humanity, Sonderman said. The Milwaukee build benefited from that. When bad weather hindered the build's progress. Carter got on TV and appealed for local roofers. They showed up the next day, Sonderman said. If he wasnt the former president, I'm doubting the TV stations wouldve carried the message like they did. Former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, worked in the rain during their 1989 visit to Milwaukee. The Carters had a long relationship with Habitat for Humanity. Their builds became known as the Carter Work Project, where the couple worked alongside volunteers to build safe and affordable housing for deserving families. Sonderman said Carter knew a thing or two about carpentry and demanded high standards from the volunteers and the contractors on the builds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He didnt just want this home to be slapped together," Sonderman said. "He was very committed, as we are as an organization, that we build really good homes." Volunteers still mention the Carters visit for their involvement with Milwaukee Habitat. Bringing individuals of different races, professions, economic status and even different trades together is the legacy of that visit. And seeing the Carters put their faith into action is often why volunteers pick up hammers and nails to give complete strangers the American dream of homeownership, Sonderman said. They were inspired by a former president who didnt just walk off into the sunset after his defeat in 1980, he said. Instead, he found in large measure what the second half of his life would be about, which is serving his neighbor, loving his neighbor. And, as he said, his faith demanded it. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukeeans remember when Jimmy Carter helped build their homes The Minneapolis City Council has voted to approve a proposed federal consent decree that, if finalized, will enact sweeping police reform. The city council spent hours in a closed session Monday reviewing the proposed agreement between the city and the United States Department of Justice. The council ultimately voted 12-0, with Council Member Michael Rainville absent, to approve the tentative deal. The consent decree provides a court-enforceable roadmap for lasting police reform in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The negotiations began months ago in the wake of a June 2023 report, which detailed the findings of a two-year investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD). The DOJ allegedly found MPD and city of Minneapolis had engaged in a pattern or practice of conduct that violates the U.S. Constitution and federal civil rights laws The allegations included the use of excessive force, discrimination against Black and Native American people, the violation of the rights people engaged in protected speech and discrimination against people with disabilities. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland also said the investigation found Minneapolis police had routinely disregarded the safety of people in their custody and those who've been victims of excessive force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Minnesota Star Tribune, which reportedly reviewed and verified the nearly 170-page document, reports the tentative agreement stipulates the city acknowledge that the findings raised issues of great importance to the community and the parties engaged in good faith negotiations to resolve this matter to avoid the time and expense of taxpayer-funded litigation. "The version shared with City Council and other top officials Sunday via secured link barred them from downloading, forwarding or printing the agreement," the Star Tribune reported. Minneapolis is already been under state court supervision, as the state's Department of Human Rights reached a settlement with the city in 2023. The state's investigation, launched following the murder of George Floyd, revealed failures of the both the city and department leaders to rid MPD of practices violating the Minnesota Human Rights Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the federal consent decree is officially approved in court, Minneapolis will become the first city in the country to have its police department governed by both the state and federal mandates, per the Star Tribune. Photo illustration by Getty Images. Minnesota earns high marks for policies and constitutional protections for the separation of church and state, according to the latest annual rankings from American Atheists, a nonprofit advocacy group. Minnesota is one of 15 states and alone in the upper Midwest with what the organization calls strong protections for religious equality. In addition to strong constitutional protections that protect the separation of religion and government, the report authors write, states in this category have laws and policies that protect individuals from religion-based harm, such as child marriage or conversion therapy. Generally, these states allow few religious exemptions or special privileges for religion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A dozen states, including neighboring Wisconsin, are rated as having basic separation of religion and government. And 25 more, including both Dakotas and Iowa, are characterized by religious exemptions that undermine equality. Minnesota received high marks for nondiscrimination laws in housing, employment and education. Recent legislative efforts to protect abortion access, ban so-called conversion therapy for LGBTQ children, and ban child marriage, also factor in the states favor. School policies, including a notable absence of bans on certain books or divisive topics that have been popular in conservative-led states in recent years, also account for some of Minnesotas high marks. Americas public schools are cornerstones of our communities and our democracy, serving 90% of our nations children and teens, said American Atheists communications director Melina Cohen, in a statement. We as a nation should be proud of our nonsectarian, inclusive public schools. Instead, we are seeing more and more legislative attempts to inject religion into publicly funded classrooms and divert public funds to discriminatory religious schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report is especially focused on the rise and government embrace of white Christian nationalism in many conservative states. Politicians sympathetic to those views have, among other things in recent years, mandated the teaching of the Bible in public schools, imposed punitive abortion bans, restricted access to certain books, and limited the availability of medical care for transgender people. In the weeks and months ahead, Americans who value their First Amendment rights must understand their state legislatures are increasingly the last bulwark against religious extremism, said Nick Fish, president of American Atheists, in a statement. We know what the federal government, led by Donald Trump and the architects of Project 2025, have planned. A 2024 Public Religion Research Institute survey found that close to 30% of Minnesotans espoused Christian nationalist views, including the belief that laws should be based on Christian values. Among Republicans, the share adhering to Christian nationalist views was greater than 50%. Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, says there's no need for power sharing with Democrats at a news conference announcing their agenda on Jan. 6, 2024. Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer. Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, proudly introduced herself as the House speaker-designate at a news conference on Monday, saying theres no longer need for a power-sharing agreement after a newly elected Democrat resigned his seat for not meeting the residency requirement. There is not equal power in the state of Minnesota. There (are) 67 Republicans, 66 Democrats, Demuth said. That gives us an organizational majority that we fully intend to exercise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic House leader Melissa Hortman of Brooklyn Park said at a later news conference that without a power-sharing agreement, her caucus would strike and deny Republicans a quorum until a special election is held to fill the seat won by Curtis Johnson but whom a judge ruled did not meet the residency requirement. Another Democrat is expected to prevail in the special election in House District 40B in suburban Roseville scheduled for later this month, returning the balance of power to 67-67. If there is no power sharing agreement, we will not be there, Hortman said. Were not going to show up and have them illegitimately seize power. At stake is more than just the speakers gavel and power to assign committee chairs for the next two years. Democrats say theyd be striking to protect the will of the voters because Republicans signaled they will not seat Democratic Rep. Brad Tabke, whose victory in House District 54A is currently before a state district court judge in a case brought by Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tabke won the suburban Shakopee seat by 14 votes but 20 ballots were wrongfully thrown out before being counted. Six of the 20 voters whose ballots are believed to be lost testified that they voted for Tabke, increasing his margin of victory. A new election would give Republicans a second chance to win a real majority with the 68 votes needed to pass bills off the floor assuming they remain a unified bloc. Even if they manage to take control of the House, theyd still need to negotiate with Democratic Gov. Tim Walz and a Democratic majority in the Senate, pending a special election in that body. Hortman said 68 Republican votes in the House is out of the question. We believe that he will be seated and part of the reason that were willing to walk the picket line is to ensure that happens, Hortman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hortman said she is confident Secretary of State Steve Simon, a Democrat who serves as the presiding officer on the first day of the legislative session, will determine that 67 members isnt enough for a quorum if Democrats dont show up. A spokeswoman for the secretary of state said in an email that he is consulting with nonpartisan staff and legal counsel to review relevant house rules, statute, case law, and precedent. Without a quorum, the House wont be able to elect a speaker or even turn on the lights, Hortman said. Republicans floated the possibility that House Democrats could be subject to recall elections for failing to execute their duties if they go forward with the gambit. Democrats said they would still be working and collecting their salaries during a potential strike by meeting with constituents in their districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walz called the special election to fill the seat Johnson was deemed ineligible for Jan. 28, but Minnesota Republicans filed a lawsuit challenging the tight timeline. If successful, a blockade by House Democrats could have to be extended beyond January. The legislative session isnt scheduled to start until Jan. 14, leaving plenty of time for negotiations behind the scenes to avert the showdown threatening to shut down the House and surely attract national media attention. VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. (WIAT) Miss Alabama has been crowned Miss America 2025. Vestavia Hills native Abbie Stockard was crowned Sunday night at the pageant in Orlando, Florida. Her philanthropic cause was the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF). The Alabama Chapter of CFF said Stockard has been taking part in fundraisers and helping raise awareness for the rare disease since her childhood. To Stockard, the cause has a deeper meaning. When I was in third grade, I met this energetic, spunky, lively girl named Mattie. We have been best friends since the age of nine and we both go to Auburn together, Stockard told CBS 42 in July after being crowned Miss Alabama. Growing up, I saw how this disease affected her mentally and physically and it sparked a fire in me at a young age that I wanted to do something about this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birmingham man charged in relation to fatal shooting Thats exactly how Stockard has used her platform for the cause. After winning Miss Hoover last spring, Stockard held a fundraiser for CFF Alabama chapter where she raised $190,000 going towards research at UAB. Theres only about 40,000 people in the United States, and about 100,000 people with cystic fibrosis worldwide, so its incredible to have someone of Abbies stature in this position to raise awareness for this rare disease, Margaret Smith, executive director of the CFF Alabama chapter, said. Smith said any fundraising Stockard has done or will do in her new title as Miss America supports the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis through research and drug development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Especially this past year, in her reign as Miss Hoover and as Miss Alabama, shes been a tremendous spokesperson to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis. To help us with fundraising and just to spread the word about this devastating disease. So, were absolutely thrilled to have her now on this national platform and theres no better person. Stockards hometown of Vestavia Hills echoes this, saying it couldnt think of a better representative for the city than her. She has such a wonderful, caring heart, and it really is. Shes a great example for other people in Vestavia Hills. We now have a Miss Vestavia Hills pageant and thats all because of Abbie, Vestavia Hills assistant city manager Cinnamon McCulley said. So many people want to follow in her footsteps and she serves as such a wonderful role model and its for boys, its for girls, its for everybody. The CFF Alabama chapter says its looking forward to working with Stockard as much as possible throughout her next year as Miss America. 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. PARIS Pan-European missile maker MBDA bought the remaining 50% of rocket-engine supplier Roxel from co-owner Safran, in a move the company expects will help it ramp up production in the face of surging demand. MBDA acquired Safrans stake in Roxel on Dec. 19, it said in a statement on Monday. The deal gives Europes largest tactical-missile maker full control over its main supplier of propulsion , including for flagship products such as the Aster air-defense interceptor, Exocet anti-ship rocket, Meteor air-to-air missile and Akeron MP antitank munition. As Europe rushes to beef up air defenses in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine, MBDA has seen orders surge to record levels , and the company is investing at least 2.4 billion (US$2.5 billion) over five years to expand production capabilities. In the United States, tight supply of rocket motors has hampered efforts by Lockheed Martin and RTX to boost missile production there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This transaction is to support Roxels operational and industrial excellence, MBDA CEO Eric Beranger said in the statement. It also aims to provide an even more optimal response to the ramp-up challenges posed by the context of war economy, both in development and in production. MBDA plans to invest over several years to boost production at Roxel, which it says would have been more complicated to implement in the joint-venture format. While the missile maker doesnt face a shortage of rocket motors at this time, MBDA says it saw a need to vertically integrate Roxel in anticipation of an increased missile production pace. Roxel is being integrated as a wholly-owned subsidiary, but will continue to manage its business independently and honor all existing contracts with other system suppliers, MBDA said. The rocket-engine makers clients also include Saab and Lockheed Martin. The acquisition comes at a time of major growth and investment, and will accelerate Roxels development as well as consolidate the engine makers role as a national champion in France and the U.K., according to MBDA. The company declined to say what it paid for the 50% stake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roxel has annual sales of about 200 million and employed around 900 people in 2024. The maker of solid-propulsion systems for tactical and cruise missiles, which says it has a 60% share of the European market for its products, gets a large majority of its sales from MBDA. This acquisition will enable us to further develop innovation in new solid propulsion technologies, Roxel CEO Sylvie Grison said. Additionally, this integration operation will make it easier to optimize industrial cycles for faster ramp-up. France has pushed for MBDA to speed up production in what the government dubs a shift to a war economy, though opposition lawmakers have pointed out the country is not actually at war. The French and British navies have been using Aster interceptors to down Houthi drones and missiles targeting shipping in the Red Sea, while the munition is also used by the SAMP/T air-defense system protecting Kyiv. MBDA plans to triple production of CAMM missiles between 2022 and 2026, lift output of Aster interceptors by 50% over the period, quadruple the monthly volume of Mistral short-range air-defense missiles between 2022 and 2025 and increase production of the Akeron antitank missile by 2.5 times. Roxel supplies the motors for all of those products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roxel also supplies the rocket booster for MBDAs Naval Cruise Missile, comparable to Raytheons Tomahawk and carried by Frances multi-role frigates and nuclear attack submarines. MBDA is offering a ground-launched version of the missile, which the company says could be a short-term option for the European Long Range Strike Approach, or ELSA, a pan-European effort to equip the continent with a sovereign long-range cruise missile. Roxel was formed in 2003 by the merger of Frances Celerg and the U.K.s Royal Ordnance Rocket Motors. and has a production site in the U.K. and three in France. MBDA is a joint venture between Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo. A 61-year-old camper last seen standing on the bank of a creek has been missing for over a week in Oregon, deputies said. Rescuers began searching for Robert Ray Bennett II on Dec. 28 at Brice Creek, the Lane County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post. Bennett had been standing on the bank at a campsite near Cedar Creek Campground, deputies said. Authorities said they believe he fell into the fast-moving creek, which was running near historically high flow rate at the time. Search teams continue to look for him as water levels drop, deputies said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drones, police dogs and ground teams have been used to search for Bennett. Bennett is about 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighs about 165 pounds and has white hair with brown eyes and stubble facial hair. Bennett has a hunched posture and issues walking. He was last seen wearing a maroon coat, black shirt, suspenders, tan wranglers, and cowboy boots, deputies said. Brice Creek is about a 50-mile drive southeast from Eugene. Driver plunges through icy lake, gets rescued and then arrested, Wisconsin cops say Two found clinging to buoy when boat hits cruise ship wake and sinks, Florida cops say 72-year-old snowboarder with infectious smile and booming voice dies on ID mountain UPDATE: According to the Greene County Sheriffs Department, Danny Smith has been found safe. GREENE COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) Local agencies are continuing to search for a missing Greeneville man, who is also the subject of a Silver Alert from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Danny Smith was last known to be at his home in the 400 block of Mulberry Road within the Stomper community off Baileyton Road on Sunday around 11 p.m., the Greene County Sheriffs Department (GCSD) reports. Courtesy of the Greene County Sheriffs Department On Tuesday, the GCSD announced search operations will continue in the area. K9s, rescue squads, including the Hawkins County Rescue Squad and other agencies will be participating in the search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greene Co. Sheriffs Dept. deploys K9 to search for missing man Smith, 60, is believed to have left on foot in an unknown direction of travel, the sheriffs department stated. He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a gray sweatshirt with a maroon top. According to Smiths family, he is very forgetful and has severe Alzheimers, although not medically diagnosed yet. Anyone with information on Smiths possible whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately or call 1-800-TBI-FIND. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Amid rising cancer diagnosis rates, a report reveals that Mississippi is the least able to study the devastating disease. Cancer is the countrys second leading cause of death. Experts forecast cases to roughly double from 20 to 35 million annually by 2050. Research to improve health outcomes and save lives is more important than ever. However, a SmileHub report Tuesday ranked Mississippi as the countrys worst state for cancer research nationally. Cancer is the countrys second leading cause of death. Mississippi diagnoses about 16,000 new cases yearly. About 6,500 people die from cancer in Mississippi annually. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mississippi has the highest cancer mortality rate nationally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UMMC receives $1.4 million grant for prostate cancer research Mississippi ranked 45th in quality of cancer research hospitals. The U.S. News & World Reports Best Hospitals for Cancer helped to form Mississippis ranking from SmileHub. Of the four Mississippi hospitals ranked, most had average patient satisfaction ratings and surgery quality overall. Though SmileHub notes Mississippi has the 18th highest per capita rate of research institutions, the number of resources for research is lacking. For instance, Mississippi ranked 46th for research charities per capita and 46th for clinical trials per capita. Despite also ranking 46th for National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant funding, NIH money made a profound difference in research overall. NIH grants account for over half of all research funding at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). In 2022, every dollar of NIH funding generated $2.20 of economic activity in Mississippi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Various entities still seek out the medical expertise of Mississippi hospitals. For instance, UMMCs Cancer Center and Research Institute received a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to examine the biological factors contributing to prostate cancer and its racial disparities in health outcomes. 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 WJTV. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) The 2025 Mississippi Legislative Session is underway, with tax reform and other key issues dominating the agenda. Governor Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) said his top priority is the full elimination of the state income tax, and he touted that policy on social media on Tuesday, January 7. House Speaker Jason White (R-Miss.) essentially backs income tax elimination and has outlined a gradual phase-out strategy. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann (R-Miss.) is taking a different approach. He hopes to reduce the income tax incrementally to a flat 3% by 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders are also addressing grocery sales tax reductions. Hosemann is advocating for a phased 50% cut. Other proposals include dropping the tax from 7% to 5% immediately. Mississippi governor releases FY 2026 budget recommendation Medicaid expansion remains a contentious topic. White has expressed strong opposition to expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, but Hosemann has called for further discussions on the matter, potentially exploring alternative healthcare solutions. Infrastructure improvement also remains a priority. Lawmakers are expected to address road and bridge repairs, following years of underfunded projects. Both White and Hosemann agree that investing in infrastructure is critical to Mississippis economic future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Education funding remains a major issues. Both House and Senate leaders have discussed the need for increased investment in K-12 schools, particularly to address teacher pay and school safety. Lawmakers may also consider new proposals aimed at expanding school voucher programs or charter schools. State Auditor Shad White (R-Miss.) announced on Tuesday that he will request $1 million less than last year from the states general fund from the state legislature for the Office of the State Auditor. The NAACP ends its challenge over Mississippi creating a new court in majority-Black capital city I have repeatedly encouraged other state agencies to save money when possible and operate more like a family, cutting fat and storing money for the future, said Auditor White. My team and I have done exactly that over the last six years in the State Auditors office, and after careful review, it has given us the ability to return money to the taxpayers with no change to our capabilities as an office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White said he hoped the Legislature would use the additional $1 million in general funds to put money into teacher salaries, salaries for law enforcement officers, or a tax cut for taxpayers. 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 WJTV. Mark Lee Dickson, founder of Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn based in Texas, spoke before the Rolla City Council on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, about an ordinance that would outlaw the mailing of abortion medication in the Missouri town (Screenshot/City of Rolla Youtube page). Less than a month after a state constitutional amendment legalizing abortion went into effect, a national movement to establish pockets of resistance is dividing one Missouri town. Rolla, a town of about 20,000 people that sits 100 miles southwest of St. Louis, is being courted by Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn, an anti-abortion activist group out of Texas. If approved by the city council, it would be the first municipality in Missouri to adopt the title. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But during a public hearing Monday night, council members expressed concerns about adopting the ordinance, which uses a 150-year-old federal law to give local citizens the ability to sue any person or entity who provides abortion medication through the mail. The concern is it would do little besides put the town at the center of costly litigation and negative national press. Why are we doing this? Rolla Mayor Louis Magdits IV asked during Mondays meeting. What is out to be accomplished? Rolla is home to one of Missouris six remaining Planned Parenthood clinics. The rest are located in and around Democrat-leaning cities Columbia, Kansas City and St. Louis. Wright City, a town of about 5,000 people just off Interstate 70, west of St. Louis, also considered becoming a sanctuary city for the unborn in 2023 but never made it official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missouris legal landscape around abortion has changed drastically since then. Amendment 3, which was narrowly approved by voters in November, made unconstitutional the states trigger law, which in June 2022 outlawed all abortions in the state, with exceptions only for medical emergencies. Under Amendment 3, Missourians have a constitutional right to reproductive health care, including abortion up until the point of fetal viability. Abortions have not yet re-started in Missouri, though. Planned Parenthood is currently suing the state in an effort to take down its existing laws regulating abortion that they say make it impossible for clinics to offer the procedure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the fight over Amendment 3 plays out in court, anti-abortion advocates hope to wage a separate campaign at the local level. And Rolla was their first stop. Rolla City Councilman Joshua Vroman, who filed the sanctuary city ordinance, said it doesnt question the validity of Amendment 3, but rather makes note of an 1873 federal law on the books that bans mailing obscene material, including for the use of abortion. He worked on the latest draft of the ordinance with Brian Westbrook, with St. Louis-based Coalition Life, and Mark Lee Dickson, founder of Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn. The Comstock Act outlaws the mailing of obscene or crime-inciting materials, including every article or thing designed, adapted, or intended for producing abortion, or for any indecent or immoral use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of Missouri elected officials, including U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, have called on President Joe Biden to enforce the Comstock Act in regards to medication abortion. The Biden administration has refused. A renewed push for enforcement is expected when Donald Trump takes office again later this month. Trumps prior administration did not enforce the law. Were pointing to the Comstock Act saying heres the law, you have to work within the confines of this law, and here is the enforcement mechanism, Vroman said. Magdits asked who would enforce the Rolla ordinance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The citizens will enforce, Vroman said, drawing several outbursts of laughter from the crowd followed by a call for decorum. Dickson, in an interview with The Independent, said law enforcement could not apply the ordinance, nor could a woman who receives and takes the medication be found liable under this ordinance. It would rely solely on citizens suing any person or organization who provides abortion medication. For example, he said, if an organization mailed abortion medication to a Rolla teenager, her parents could then sue the entity that mailed the medication. And if Planned Parenthood again began prescribing drugs for medication abortions, an individual could sue Planned Parenthood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FDA has approved two medications mifepristone and misoprostol for use in the first 10 weeks or pregnancy. The availability of both are under threat under the Comstock Act. Abortions performed after 10 weeks are done surgically. In the six months after the Dobbs decision, the number of self-managed medication abortions rose by more than 26,000 across the U.S. according to a study published in JAMA, the American Medical Associations journal. The medication is mailed everywhere in the U.S., including Missouri. Vroman said the ordinance would only apply to elective abortions, not medically-necessary abortions. The ACLU of Missouri disagrees, saying in a written statement that the ordinance would also leave hospitals and providers vulnerable to lawsuits, including when treating miscarriages, which are medically documented as abortions and are often treated using mifepristone or misoprostol, both of which can be used to induce labor or stop hemorrhaging after childbirth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point during Monday nights meeting, council members called upon Dr. Jenny Pennycook, an OB-GYN in Rolla, to explain her interpretation of the ordinance. She said she was trained at a Catholic Jesuit institution and has never been an abortion provider. Asked by council members if she believed the ordinance could create hurdles for miscarriage care, Pennycook said yes. Prior to the U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in June 2022, Pennycook said she never had issues prescribing mifepristone or misoprostol. Since then, Pennycook said shes had numerous patients turned away from pharmacies, leaving her needing to call to clear up that the medication was not for abortion so her patient could access it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When pharmacists are scared about the Comstock Act and enforcement and whether or not they can dispense these medications, it makes it harder for patients to get these medications, she said. Untreated missed miscarriages can result in hemorrhage or infection and women can lose their uterus and never get pregnant again or even die. Threat of costly litigation In a town that touts itself as the middle of everywhere, residents are wary of what could turn their recent economic and population growth against them. We did not simply pick Rolla out of a hat, Westbrook told the council after multiple members accused him and Dickson of targeting the town. We were invited, specifically for the things that you guys are discussing today. Councilman Matt Fridley said while he opposes abortion, he doesnt think its the responsibility of Rolla to resolve a state issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I understand from a philosophical or a moral compass where youre coming from for this, but I dont believe the city should fight for this, he said. It creates negative press. It creates problems where individuals may go, I dont want to live in this community. A few hours earlier, the council received a letter from the ACLU of Missouri that Magdits said he interpreted to mean: this is a shot across the bow, and were watching what youre doing. The letter, signed by Tori Schafer, an attorney who helped steer Amendment 3 to victory, threatened costly litigation. Rejecting this ordinance would demonstrate the citys commitment to upholding the law and prioritizing the health and wellbeing of its community, Schafer wrote. Attempting to impose such a measure would invite expensive legal challenges, divert valuable city resources, and, most importantly, cause unnecessary harm and delay to individuals in need of critical health care. Some Texas towns have also expressed concerns over litigation costs when considering similar ordinances. In Rolla, Dickson proposed a workaround. Let us know what you think... Dickson said former solicitor general of Texas Jonathan Mitchell has agreed to represent the city of Rolla at no cost to the city and taxpayers if they are sued. But thats only if the city agreed, and it would not cover the cost of additional legal representation. Much of the councils confusion also centered around who could bring a lawsuit and where it would be litigated. Nathan Nickolaus, the city attorney, said he believes the ordinance would allow a citizen to sue anyone who they believe helped get abortion medication to a person in Rolla. Were saying you cant do this in a state that says you can do this in a country that says you cant do this, Nickolaus said. That suit would likely end up in municipal court, he said, which is woefully inadequate a place to hear this kind of case. No offense to anyone in the city I used to be a municipal prosecutor municipal court is kind of the McDonalds of the judicial system. Its light kind of stuff. Magdits on multiple occasions said the issue wasnt whether or not the council opposes abortion. It was about legal repercussions. When he was called to the podium for public comments at the end of the meeting, Dickson said the issue at hand absolutely was abortion. This really is a pro-life issue, he said. Are we going to stand with the attorney general of Missouri, or are we going to stand with the ACLU? Magdits asked if the ordinance specified what kind of medication use would be subject to litigation. Its about abortion-causing drugs that cause abortion, Westbrook said. Thats a slick answer, Magdits said, before concluding: Go fight this somewhere else. An icy greeting Dickson has spent much of the past few years of his life driving across the south pitching Sanctuary Cities for the Unborn to receptive audiences. But on Monday, as he ventured a bit further north, he received an icy response. It took him more than an hour to scrape the ice off his car. Then, he was greeted by a barrage of Rolla citizens, including one who addressed him as a carpetbagger. Despite an ice and winter storm passing through the town less than 24 hours earlier, the meeting happened as planned. Some residents during public comments took note of the small crowd, blaming the council for holding the meeting on the same day the public school district called off classes. Planned Parenthood Great Rivers Action called on citizens to show up wearing pink to protest the ordinance. These bills intimidate abortion seekers and their loved ones, and waste taxpayers time and money just to score political points, the release said. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Rolla resident Britt Giger said she was used to the councils embarrassing, crazy, chaotic meetings, but said Mondays events could cause national embarrassment. I dont want to scroll TikTok and see this meeting, she said, adding: Imagine how university growth could be impacted if women dont want to come here anymore. She was followed by Jenny Cunningham who held her husbands hand as she explained that they moved to Rolla about a year ago in the hopes of starting a family. When Amendment 3 passed, they breathed a sigh of relief. But news of this ordinance puts women back in the crosshairs, she said. This is a bounty hunter law, Cunningham said. This turns citizen against citizen during the most terrible and tragic times that people can face in their lives. Joe Dalton, founder and CEO of Pregnancy Resource Center of Rolla, testified in support of the ordinance, emphasizing that Rolla citizens have access to abortion medication by mail despite the local Planned Parenthood currently being unable to prescribe it. He was followed by a registered nurse who works in Rolla in a labor and delivery unit who also supported the ordinance. This would save the lives of countless children, she implored the council. Pamela Timson, a resident of Rolla for more than 40 years, urged the council to set the ordinance aside for good, sharing her own story of a medical condition that made childbirth dangerous. She found it outrageous that Rolla would attempt to qualify a constitutional amendment so soon out of the gates. We havent even given our state government a chance to qualify it yet, she said. Vote stalled for now The council ultimately decided not to officially put the ordinance on the agenda for its next meeting. But Vroman still has the opportunity to bring his revised ordinance before the council during council comments later this month. Vroman brought the initial ordinance forward in November before recruiting Westbrook and Dickson to help him write a revised draft. At a Dec. 16 council meeting, Dominic Barceleau of the Missouri Attorney Generals office testified that state law does not prohibit Rolla from enacting such an ordinance. Its the intent of the legislature to regulate abortion to the fullest extent of the law, Barceleau said. The attorney generals position is that doesnt prevent concurrent municipal regulation thats also consistent with the legislatures intent to regulate abortion. Dickson, who also drove up from Texas for that meeting, told council members the target of the ordinance was not just Planned Parenthood, but also pharmacies. So when cities do this, it really is doing as much as we possibly can to push back, to align ourselves with the attorney generals office and to put tools in our tool belts to prevent this from getting out of hand, because what the Biden administration has done in a multitude of different categories is create mass chaos, he said before devolving into a short rant about the border wall. The mayor remained skeptical from the start. Its not clear to me why Rolla needs to carry this banner when the problem, whether its the attorney general, the governor or whoever the hell else is up there, they need to sort this out, Magdits said last month. I dont think its Rolla, Missouris responsibility to lead this charge. His opinion seemed to change little on Monday. In fact, Dickson said after the meeting, Magdits threatened to cut my nuts off after he accused Magdits of siding with Planned Parenthood, even though Magdits during the meeting expressed frustration that Amendment 3 even made it on the ballot. The Independent could not immediately reach the mayor for comment, but Rolla City Administrator John Butz confirmed he overheard part of the conversation. I was there and I heard it, Butz said. I think in the context the mayor wasnt threatening him per se with that, I think it was in the side conversation the two of them were having. So Ill leave it up to them to comment on the intent or the context of what was said. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 21. Dickson said hes not yet decided if he will be there. But hes also not giving up. When properly educated, the majority of council, I think, is going to want to pass this ordinance, Dickson said. Were going to keep on keeping on. Correction: This story was updated at 9 a.m. Wednesday to clarify that former solicitor general of Texas Jonathan Mitchell agreed to represent the city of Rolla at no cost to the city and taxpayers if they are sued. MISSOURI Missouri property tax assessments are setting the stage now for your tax bill at the end of the year. County assessors throughout the state are mailing the assessment list to catalog everything from cars and trucks to airplanes and farm machinery. Residents are required to fill out the list of everything they own as of January 1. Youll likely see it in your mail in the next few days, but if you dont, consider reaching out to the county assessors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would say if theyve not gotten it by the middle of January to give us a call back and confirm the address we have on hand. And there, we will also send a second notice, said Lisa Perry, Jasper County Assessor. Counties like Jasper offer online registration for residents, but remember that options to fill out the list vary depending on your home county. The assessment list is due on March 1. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 6MITCHELL For Caleb Machado, auditioning for and earning a seat with the South Dakota Middle School All-State Orchestra is becoming a regular habit. In fact, the eighth grader at Mitchell Middle School just recently received word that he would again represent Mitchell when the prestigious group gathers for its 2025 performance at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center in late February. It will be his third time playing with the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It feels good. It's a tough audition," Machado told the Mitchell Republic. Machado is one of 86 players who qualified for the orchestra this year, each of whom must master a selection of disciplines with their instrument. The audition process includes scales, an etude and a prepared piece of music. In addition to the audio portion of the audition, students are also put on video so judges can assess their fingering technique and general style. Joel Van Peursem, who teaches band and instrumental music at Mitchell Middle School, said Machado is the second student to qualify for the honor three years in a row. "He's worked really hard on it," Van Peursem said. "He's a very talented student, he's very involved in playing and just a great student academically." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Machado again passed his audition with his cello, which he has played since being inspired by his older brother Andrew and his violin playing. The 13-year-old has stuck with it ever since while also trying his hand at other musical disciplines, such as the trombone as well and vocal music. He was drawn to the cello due to its similarity to the human voice, which he noted are both close in timbre. "What I like about the cello is I like how it sounds because of the fact that it's the closest of all instruments to the human vocal range," said Machado, who also sings tenor in the middle school choir. Van Peursem said 29 schools in South Dakota had students submit auditions for middle school all-state orchestra this year, compared to 60 to 80 schools submitting student auditions for middle school all-state band. Like many schools in South Dakota, Mitchell Middle School does not have an orchestra program, so Machado studies cello under Andrew Travers, an instructor out of Sioux Falls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All told, there were 185 auditions in violin, cello, viola and bass among those 29 schools, meaning less than half of those who try out are accepted into the group. But Machado's hard work is paying off in his work with the cello as well as the trombone and his vocal music. A student doesn't just qualify for a group like the South Dakota Middle School All-State Orchestra three years in a row on luck, Van Peursem said. "He's made it three years, and it is a big accomplishment for anyone in middle school to make it (even) as a sixth-grader. I'm very proud of him," Van Peursem said. Machado may be used to playing with the South Dakota Middle School All-State Orchestra, but the impact of the event remains with him. Playing with such an exclusive group is a great opportunity to come together with fellow like-minded students to express themselves through instruments and music. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's also a chance for not only the students to display their skills with their selected instrument, but also for members of the public who might not otherwise have the chance to take in a full live orchestral performance, especially with the event being held in Mitchell this year. "It's something really cool. It's just really cool to see all these kids from all different backgrounds coming together for the day to show people how an orchestra really sounds," Machado said. Machado will join his fellow South Dakota Middle School All-State Orchestra players at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center later next month. It will be the first time the event, which rotates among different venues in South Dakota each year, has been held in Mitchell. A performance open to the public will take place at 3 p.m. Feb. 22. There is no charge, but there is a recommended donation of $5 per person to attend the concert. The South Dakota Music Education Association String Symposium is also taking place that weekend, with string teachers from across the state joining in for continuing education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It won't be the only all-state performance in Mitchell this year. The South Dakota Middle School All-State Band and South Dakota Middle School All-State Jazz Band concerts will also be held in Mitchell. The Middle School All-State Jazz Band will come to the PAC on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, while the Middle School All-State Band performance will take place March 7 and 8. With a little luck and hard work, Van Peursem said there will be more Mitchell students taking part in those events as well. That includes Machado, who has auditioned for the South Dakota Middle School All-State Band on the trombone and, along with other students at Mitchell Middle School, is waiting to hear back about his status. It's an anxious but exciting time for the student musicians, Van Peursem said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I have quite a few auditions for (all-state band and all-state jazz band). I think (waiting to hear audition results) bothers the kids more so than myself. They are constantly asking about how they did," Van Peursem said. Having experienced this process before, Machado is used to the waiting game, and he'll stand by to see how his audition for all-state band is seen by the judges. Until then he'll keep his focus on his playing and practicing, something he says he enjoys enough that it doesn't seem like a chore. Playing for the public with his peers is a great experience, Machado said, and he knows other students can find similar success if they put their mind to it. "Everyone can make it," Machado said. "You just need to put in enough work to do that." Six college students in Massachusetts were accused of luring an active-duty service member whom they falsely described as a sexual predator to their campus, where a group of more than two dozen people chased and assaulted him, authorities said. One of the students who was charged told police that the plot was modeled on To Catch a Predator, NBCs discontinued program that, during its three seasons, aimed to catch adults seeking to prey on minors using undercover cameras and decoys impersonating underage dates, according to a statement of facts in the case. Catch a predator is a big thing on TikTok currently, the facts document cites the student, Easton Randall, 19, as saying. The Assumption University campus in Worcester, Mass. Eleven Illinois teens were charged last month in a similar incident that authorities in Mount Prospect, northwest of Chicago, attributed to a viral social media trend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement at the time, the citys police department did not provide additional details about the trend. Police Chief Michael Eterno pleaded with parents to take these incidents as an opportunity to talk with their teenage children about the seriousness of actively participating in these types of trends they see on social media. At Assumption University, the private Catholic university in Worcester where the six people charged in the plot are students, there was absolutely no evidence that the man students accused of being a predator had been seeking sex with a minor, the statement says. Still, he was chased by what the statement describes as a mob of 25 to 30 people some of them recording the pursuit and ensnared in a conspiracy carried out by a group of six that includes allegations of systemic mistreatment, false imprisonment, physical assault and battery and potential character assassination, according to the university police sergeant who wrote the statement. Charged with kidnapping, conspiracy The statement identifies one of the students as a juvenile, whose charges are not included in a criminal complaint filed last month. The five other students, including Randall, were charged with kidnapping and conspiracy, the complaint shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two other students were accused of additional crimes. Kelsy Brainard, 18, was charged with intimidation. Kevin Carroll, 18, was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Messages left with lawyers for Carroll and a second defendant were not returned. A relative of Randalls would not comment. A message left for another defendant on a phone number listed as that of a relative was not returned, nor was a message sent via Facebook to a profile with Brainards name. In a statement, Assumption University President Greg Weiner said the behavior described in the court filing is abhorrent and antithetical to Assumption Universitys mission and values. In all circumstances, we expect our students to exercise sound judgment and uphold the principles of respect, responsibility, and character that define our community. Once the incident was reported, Weiner said, the schools Public Safety Department investigated the allegations and pursued criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This situation is particularly sobering because the victim is an active-duty military service member, he said. His service reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who defend our freedoms, including the opportunity to pursue a college education. Reached by phone, the victims father told NBC News that his son is 22. He declined to identify which branch of the military his son serves in and said it appears that authorities are doing their job. Theyre doing their due diligence, and these kids seem to have hung themselves with their own words, he said. Home to attend a funeral According to the statement of facts, the incident on Oct. 1 was initially reported to university officials the next day, when Brainard said a creepy Tinder app contact had come to campus looking to meet a 17-year-old girl. She texted a friend Randall who chased the person away, according to the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a subsequent interview with campus police, Brainard reiterated this claim, saying she had been the victim of unsolicited contact, according to the statement. Campus authorities were later connected to the service member by the Worcester Police Department, which provided a starkly different account. He told campus police that he had been home to attend his grandmothers funeral and began messaging with someone on Tinder because he just wanted to be around people that were happy, according to the statement. He and Brainard planned to connect, he told police, and she invited him to meet at a campus alumni hall, according to the statement. Attacked by a mob He had been inside the building for a few minutes, the statement says, when a group of people came out of nowhere and started calling him a pedophile and accusing that he liked 17-year-old girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was unable to leave due to being grabbed and held back from leaving, the statement says. The subject reported that he was able to break free and ran up the stairs being chased by a group of 25 or more people. He told police he was chased to his car, punched in the head and had his car door slammed on him, the statement says. After he was able to flee campus, he dialed police, the statement says. A review of campus security video detailed in the statement confirmed the victims account. The video captured students berating the victim as a sexual predator, recording the pursuit as they chased him and high-fiving one another a few minutes later, after one of the accused was captured slamming the mans car door on his head, according to the statement. A review of Tinder messages showed the service member believed he was meeting an 18-year-old, the statement says. The woman's profile indicated she was 18. When officers followed up with Brainard about where the information about an underage girl came from, the statement adds, she could not answer. Call police or kick their ass Randall told authorities that after having learned that Brainard was messaging with the victim, six students came up with the idea of luring him to campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He reported that it was like the Chris Hansen videos where you catch a predator and either call the police or kick their ass, the statement says, referring to the host of To Catch a Predator. The show, which aired from 2004 to 2007, used hidden cameras and people posing as minors in online chat rooms to lure alleged predators to houses where Hansen would confront them. The program did not condone or include any violence. After a Texas prosecutor who was the subject of one of the shows investigations died by suicide, his family sued the network for $105 million in 2007. NBC settled the following year for an undisclosed amount and said the matter had been amicably resolved. In his interview with campus police, Randall said he and several others made suggestions about what Brainard should say in her messages to the service member, the statement says. After they lured him to campus, the group then rallied others at the college using an alumni group chat a move that provoked the rabid response from the dozens who participated in the event, according to the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, according to the statement, Randall acknowledged to authorities: This got out of hand and went bad. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Moldova would not object to Ukraine's proposal to help unrecognised Transnistria with its energy crisis in order to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in the region. Source: Moldovan PM Dorin Recean in a commentary to European Pravda Details: Recean noted that Chisinau has not asked Ukraine to help Transnistria with energy resources but would not object to it. "We have not asked Kyiv for any help in this sense, but [we would agree] if Kyiv offered assistance... For example, it is possible to supply coal, if there is a request for this from the Transnistrian region, from the management of the power plant in Cuciurgan [in Transnistria]," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is worth noting that gas supplies seem to be a much better option than coal, as they would also allow the launch of gas-fired boiler houses in Transnistrian cities. Ukraine's offer to help unrecognised Transnistria with the energy crisis that began with the cessation of Russian gas supplies may disrupt the Kremlin's plans to portray Moldovan President Maia Sandu as the culprit behind the humanitarian catastrophe in the region and one of the leaders of the pro-Russian forces in Moldova as a "saviour who made a deal with Moscow". The stubborn refusal of the Transnistrian leadership to accept Moldova's assistance in purchasing gas, the denial that these offers were made, and the expectation that the situation would be resolved in another way indicate that this scenario could actually take place. The outcome of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Moldova, which will be of great importance for the future and security of both Moldova and Ukraine, may depend on the success of this propaganda operation. Support UP or become our patron! The California Supreme Court has overturned a Central Valley woman's murder conviction in the 2018 killing of her 2-month-old son, ruling that the law often holds victims of domestic violence to an unfair double standard in the deaths of their children. The court on Monday ordered the woman, Brittney Collins, to be resentenced, and family violence experts said the ruling is an important step toward more just treatment for mothers under the law. A Kern County jury convicted Collins after her boyfriend, Matthew Norwood, fatally assaulted their son Abel in a methamphetamine-fueled rage, court records show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although it was Norwood who slammed Abel against the wall or the floor of their Tehachapi mobile home breaking his arm, leg and ribs, lacerating his liver and cracking his skull, according to court papers local authorities alleged Collins was legally liable for failing to protect him. "Moms the person that takes care of the baby," court records show detectives told Collins after the incident. "Moms the person that protects their baby. Right? Prosecutors argued Collins knew Norwood was dangerous because he'd brutalized her throughout her pregnancy, choking her, kneeing her in the stomach, slamming her head into the wall, and pushing her to the ground in an attempt to cause a stillbirth. According to court records, when Collins was asked how her boyfriend could inflict violence on an infant, she replied: "He chokes me so why would he not choke a baby? The trial court sentenced Collins to 15 years to life following her conviction. On her first attempt to overturn the conviction, the court of appeals said she knew Abel would be fussy the day after his 2-month vaccines, and should have predicted Norwood's fatal outburst in response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Massive budget cuts leave California domestic violence survivors with few options But the high court took the opposite view of the evidence, drawing extensively from new research into the dynamics of family violence, its prevalence among women convicted of murder and manslaughter, and the "criminalization of motherhood" under "failure to protect" statutes across the U.S. "There is no evidence that Collins knew with substantial certainty that Norwood intended to [kill Abel]," Judge Kelli M. Evans wrote in her decision. "Collins (and her grandmother) were under the impression that Norwood would be changing and feeding Abel as he had done before." Norwood's ongoing abuse he had a previous conviction for domestic violence would have made Collins acutely aware of the danger he posed to her if she tried to intervene, the judge said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is problematic to use the fact that an individual has been abused by their partner to hold that individual criminally liable for their partner's conduct," Evans wrote. Academic researchers have identified hundreds of California women incarcerated for murder or manslaughter in cases that involved intimate partner violence. Andrea N. Cimino, co-author of a 2024 Stanford Law Criminal Justice Center report cited in Judge Goodwin H. Liu's concurrence in the recent case, said "failure to protect" laws "unfairly target women," particularly abuse victims such as Collins. Cimino asked: "Why is she criminalized for the act that he did?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Stanford study identified many other similar cases where woman were found liable for child deaths, even when they were not present when the killing occurred or were actively trying to stop the act as it happened. Some could not defend their children because they'd been beaten or strangled unconscious by the same attacker. Like Collins, who was in her late 20s when her son was killed, many abuse victims are also dependent on the men who abused them and their families for housing, money and food. Collins had no power to make Norwood leave the Willow Springs mobile home park where they lived with her grandmother, and no means to escape him after he drained their accounts, court documents show. She had also nearly died during Abel's emergency cesarean birth, and developed a serious infection after it. Although she worried his father might be abusing him, she relied on Norwood to help care for the baby while she recovered, according to the appellate court record. These dynamics are common in abusive relationships that turn deadly, experts say. Yet, they are still not well accounted for in the law or clearly understood by the legal system something experts hope this ruling may change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 'I'm gonna O.J. you': How the Simpson case changed perceptions and the law on domestic violence "This is the kind of case that were seeing more and more of," said professor David A. Sklansky of the Stanford Law School. "The court used this case as an opportunity to provide guidance," rather than strike down the statute entirely. While the decision doesn't overturn failure-to-protect homicide, or reject the legal principle behind it, it illustrates how the law is often used unjustly, the professor said. "Assumptions about what Collins should have done based on outmoded, gendered notions of a mother's as compared to a father's role in caring for a child are not proper in determining a mother's liability for murder based on failure to protect," Evans wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Prosecutors and courts must take care to ensure that this type of gender bias does not infect our criminal justice system." 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. Horses are silent carriers of H5N1 bird flu, a new study from the University of Glasgow has found. Testing of horses in Mongolia found that several had antibodies for H5N1, indicating prior infection. None of the animals had ever been reported as sick, however, meaning they can carry the virus asymptomatically. The findings raise concerns for people who live and work closely with horses and other equids from American cowboys to Scottish crofters and their Shetland ponies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fear is they could catch the virus from their animals. This year alone, over 60 people in the US primarily agricultural workers have fallen ill after exposure to infected cattle. If spillover events between wild birds and horses, donkey and other equids become more common, they could potentially become a significant vector for the virus. Horses are deeply embedded in the nations culture and economy - Simon Townsley/The Telegraph The researchers took blood samples from horse herds across Mongolia and found conclusive evidence of spillover infections from wild birds. Among the 1,000 horses tested, at least nine had antibodies for bird flu. The tests were conducted in Arkhangai Province, a wetland area with a large population of wild birds, and the Gobi Desert, a dry region with far less wildlife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear how the Mongolian horses contracted the virus, although millions of other mammals including cats, dogs, skunks, pigs, and even a polar bear have become infected by either consuming birds or coming into contact with their faeces, dropped into their environment as the birds fly above. Last year, Mongolia experienced a deadly winter season known as dzud, which killed millions of farm animals through cold and starvation. It is possible that horses were forced to feed on the carcasses of dead birds, the natural carriers of H5N1, as much of Mongolias grazing land was frozen over. Though horses are herbivores, they will scavenge on meat as a last resort. Wild birds infected with H5N1 have been found on every continent on Earth. The virus has been circulating in birds like waterfowl and ducks in Britain for at least three years and spillover events into mammals have occurred in animals like foxes and otters. The virus can also spread between species, meaning that once its got into a herd, it could transmit between them, particularly if they are sharing the same stable, pen, food, or equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its of particular concern in Mongolia, a country home to five million horses, almost two million more than its human population. The animals are deeply embedded in the nations culture and economy and people live and work in close contact with the creatures, potentially increasing the likelihood of human transmission. The Mongolian horse, a breed that traces back to the era of Genghis Khan, is used for many purposes like travel, herding, and sport. Horse racing in particular is deeply rooted in the countrys nomadic heritage, with school children often used as jockeys. The creatures are also used to make airag, the national drink made from fermented horse milk and some are slaughtered for meat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact horses can be infected with bird flu is a particular worry given the current situation in North America where H5N1 has spread rapidly among dairy cattle, the researchers said. A horse struggles to survive during last years dzud in south east Mongolia - Simon Townsley/The Telegraph The virus could mix with others inside horses a process known as reassortment potentially creating a new mutant bird flu strain. Horses can already catch equine flu, caused by H3N8, which is endemic to North America. With the rapid spread of avian influenza among cattle in the US, the likelihood of horses and other equids coming into contact with infected cows and the chances of horses becoming co-infected with both avian and equine influenza viruses and creating a new flu significantly increases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the same process which triggered the 2008/09 H1N1 swine flu pandemic, where pigs were co-infected with avian and human flu and created a new, more dangerous type of virus. It is also what was thought to have caused the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, when pigs in Haskell County, Kansas, were infected with bird, mammal, and human influenzas at the same time. 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. Across Ohio, more than 100,000 retirees and public workers, including teachers, firefighters and police officers, will get more money from Social Security following adoption of a new federal law. The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law Jan. 5 by President Joe Biden, repeals two provisions that decreased how much some public employees are able to collect in Social Security benefits. In Ohio, nearly all public employees do not contribute to Social Security and instead are enrolled in one of the five public pension systems. But many of them have worked or will work other jobs that do contribute to Social Security. That's where Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) come into play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Windfall Elimination Provision reduces Social Security for those who receive "non-covered" pension income from public sector jobs that didnt contribute Social Security. The reduction can be significant up to half the pension amount. The Government Pension Offset reduces survivor or spousal benefits if a persons pension is non-covered. This affects fewer people, but it cuts the Social Security benefit by two-thirds of the pension amount. If two-thirds of your government pension is more than your Social Security benefit, your benefit could be reduced to zero. It's been a common complaint among Ohioans who worked in both the public and private sectors that federal laws blocked them from receiving the Social Security benefits that they paid into for their private sector jobs. In the closing days of his career in the U.S. Senate, Democrat Sherrod Brown won a hard-fought legislative victory to improve Social Security benefits for hundreds of thousands of Ohio public employees. It marks a win for former Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, who co-sponsored the legislation, in the closing days of his 18-year career in the U.S. Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some lawmakers have been fighting for the changes for more than 20 years. U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who started working on it in 2003, teamed up with Brown, who worked on it when he served in the U.S. House, to push the bill through. "Over the course of my time in the Senate, I cast more than 13,000 votes. Im proud that just after midnight on Dec. 20, the second to last vote of my term was to ensure that public servants receive the full Social Security that they have earned and paid into," Brown said. "Social Security is a bedrock of the middle class and because of our law, millions more American workers will be able to retire with dignity." Information from USA TODAY and staff writer Haley BeMiller is included in this report. Laura Bischoff is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: What does the new Social Security Fairness Act mean for Ohio workers? An internet outage disrupted classes in 115 New York City public schools on Monday, after a fiber optic cable was damaged, education and union officials said. It was not immediately clear when the network outage began. An alert was posted at 7:16 a.m. to the school systems SupportHub website. Approximately 100 schools in Brooklyn and Queens are currently experiencing network connectivity issues due to an internet service provider outage, Jenna Lyle, a spokeswoman for the public schools, said in a statement shortly after school dismissal. The internet provider is working to resolve the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, any impacted classes that planned on utilizing the internet in-school today moved to non-tech-based learning to educate students. In a post on X, the United Federation of Teachers estimated closer to 200 schools were impacted by the outage. Service will hopefully be back by the days end, the post read. All impacted schools use the same internet provider, the schools spokeswoman confirmed. The outage was unrelated to the half-inch or less of snow that fell Monday morning, which largely spared the New York metro area while wreaking havoc elsewhere in the country. SOUTH OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) Thousands of Rocky Mountain Power customers in the South Ogden area lost power as strong wind gusts blew through northern Utah early Tuesday morning. Jona Whitesides, a spokesperson for Rocky Mountain Power, confirmed with ABC4.com that at the height of the outage, about 6,000 customers were without power. By 8:30 a.m., that number had been reduced to 1,600 and power had been restored just a half-hour later. The widespread outage was caused by strong wind gusts that have torn through Weber, Davis, and Salt Lake Counties. A Wind Advisory posted by the National Weather Service said winds are expected to reach 30 miles per hour with gusts of up to 55 miles per hour possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and a few power outages may result, the National Weather Service warned. Whitesides told ABC4.com that is exactly what happened. Intense wind coming off the mountains had caused damage to one of Rocky Mountain Powers transmission lines, knocking out power. The National Weather Service said these strong winds are expected to continue late into Wednesday morning. If possible, residents are encouraged to secure any outdoor objects such as decorations, garbage cans, and trampolines. Those who are commuting through the Wasatch Front should also drive cautiously on US-89, I-15, and Legacy Parkway, especially if in a high-profile vehicle. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Sign up for CNNs Wonder Theory science newsletter. Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. Tahlequah, the mother orca denoted as J35 who captured hearts worldwide in 2018 by carrying her dead calf for 17 days and over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers), is once again displaying a similar act of mourning. Her newest calf, a female known as J61 to researchers, was first spotted on December 20 in the Puget Sound area on Washington states northwest coast by members of the public. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration later confirmed the sighting on December 23, according to Dr. Michael Weiss, research director at the Center for Whale Research. Tragically, by New Years Eve, the calf was confirmed dead, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Researchers have reported as of January 5 that Tahlequah is still carrying the calf, said Dr. Brad Hanson, a wildlife biologist with the Northwest Fisheries Science Center of NOAA. Updates regarding the mothers activity with J61 may become limited as her family group, or pod, departs from its main Puget Sound base. Tahlequah is constantly nudging the deceased calfs body, which weighs around 300 pounds (136 kilograms), with her snout to keep it close and prevent the ocean from pulling the carcass away. As with last time, I think its enough to recognize how strong the mother-calf bond is in killer whales (among the strongest social relationships in any animal), and to see that she is clearly not ready to let go, Weiss, whose doctoral research focused on orca social structure, said via email. The loss of a calf is not only devastating to Tahlequah but for the rapidly declining population of Southern Resident orcas, which is teetering on the brink of extinction with only 73 of the marine mammals remaining as of 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Southern Resident population is noted as one of the most critically endangered populations of marine mammals in the United States, according to researchers. Deep mourning by an orca mother Some female orcas have been known to carry their deceased offspring, but the time and distance Tahlequah has carried her two dead calves is unusual, according to experts. - Candice Emmons/NOAA Fisheries This act of grief raises concerns among researchers, including Weiss and Hanson, for its physical and emotional toll on Tahlequah as a member of the highly vulnerable Southern Resident population. Carrying the extra weight of the calfs body is both weighing down the mother and slowing her movements, which could impact her ability to forage for food. However, Weiss noted that during the orcas previous 17-day display of grief, there was no visible decline in her condition, which could signal that other members of her pod were helping her receive her food supply. While some female killer whales have been known to grieve the loss of their calves in ways similar to Tahlequah, the distance and time that she carried her newborn in 2018 made her an exception. Her current behavior, mirroring her past actions, is also unusual, according to Weiss. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tahlequah is known to be the mother of another orca, J47, who is now around 14 years old, and also J57, a baby born two years after her 2018 loss. Killer whales typically reproduce every five years, giving the mother time to recover from the physical demands of pregnancy and giving birth, Hanson said. While no significant data are available to suggest why Tahlequah may have lost two calves within her lifetime, orca pregnancies are fraught with challenges. Nearly 70% of pregnancies in the Southern Resident orca population, which Tahlequah and her offspring belong to, result in spontaneous abortions or very early deaths, Weiss said. Challenges faced by Southern Resident orcas Unsuccessful pregnancies and struggles for survival within exclusively fish-eating killer whale communities in the northeast Pacific Ocean can be attributed to challenges from pollutants, noise, inbreeding and a lack of Chinook salmon, which is their primary food source, Weiss said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of a female calf like J61 is particularly harmful to the species future because it diminishes the populations ability for reproduction. Assuming (orcas) live a full lifespan, youre looking at them producing five to six calves under ideal conditions, and part of the problem is that most of the females in this population have not produced that many viable calves, Hanson said. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Police are looking for two people accused of an armed robbery and shooting on Friday. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers responded to the 5700 block of 2nd St. NE around 5:50 p.m. after gunshots were reported. Police said that two suspects shot at the victims and stole their items before escaping. Over 16,000 homes, businesses without power in Central Virginia The victims were not injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with any information is asked to text 50411 or call 202-727-9099. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Class is in session for the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), who will be attending a cybercrime training program at Michigan State University on Friday. The program, hosted by the universitys Center for Cybercrime Investigation and Training, will teach law enforcement how to best respond to cyber threats. Specifically, the training will focus on contemporary solutions, offender and victim characteristics, investigative methods, and forms of community support. The Center for Cybercrime Investigations and Training was established in response to the rapid increase in cybercrime. Its goal is to combat the economic, emotional, and psychological impacts this form of crime has on communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Technology has transformed crime on and offline, and the center is one of the first resources of its kind to aid criminal justice agencies in responding to these challenges, says Tom Holt, a criminal justice professor and cybercrime expert from MSU. The center will offer training to agencies across the state in order to improve their capacity to respond to cybercrime and technology use in all manner of offenses. According to MSU, this training is the only program of its kind in the nation, made possible through $1 million in community fundraising. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WSAV) Convicted murderer Alex Murdaugh has lost another case and must pay millions of dollars in damages. A judge ordered Murdaugh to pay Nautilus Insurance $14.8 million for an insurance scheme involving the family of his former housekeeper. Murdaugh murders Hulu series to be filmed in Atlanta: report Murdaugh admitted on the stand that he created a story about how Gloria Satterfield died, all to get a $3.8 million insurance settlement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murdaugh is serving two life sentences in a South Carolina prison for murdering his wife and son. He was also sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for his financial crimes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Tech mogul Elon Musk took to X in early January 2025, claiming that U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer was "complicit" in the work of grooming gangs during his time as head of the Crown Prosecution Service between 2008 and 2013. Musk called for Starmer to resign, for the U.K. Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls Jess Phillips to be jailed, and for a national inquiry to be held into historical cases of child sexual abuse. Starmer responded to the claims on Jan. 6, calling the claims "lies" and "misinformation" and saying that threats from the "poison of the far right" had crossed a line. Snopes found no evidence to support Musk's claim that Starmer was "complicit" in perpetrators' evasion of justice. Starmer was the head of the Crown Prosecution Service from 2008 to 2013. During this time, he reopened the notable Rochdale case, in which nine men were convicted of being part of a child sexual exploitation ring or "grooming gang," after a previous investigation into the case failed. Starmer also issued new guidance for prosecutors in child sexual abuse cases. In January 2025, tech mogul and X owner Elon Musk started a social media storm by accusing (archived) U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer of being complicit in so-called "rape gangs" or "grooming gangs" evading justice while Starmer was head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). On Jan. 3, Musk posted (archived): "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." (X user @elonmusk) "Grooming gangs" is a term used in the U.K. to describe a series of cases where groups of adult men have abused, and in some cases trafficked for abuse, children and young women. Discussions around these groups have historically been tied to issues of race, as high-profile cases, including in Rochdale and Rotherham, in the north of England, featured Asian perpetrators and white victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk also lashed out at U.K. Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls Jess Phillips, calling (archived) her a "wicked witch" and (archived) "rape genocide apologist," and saying she should be in prison (archived). The posts continued for the next few days, with Musk repeating his allegations about Starmer being "complicit" and calling for a national inquiry (archived), though he later amplified a post (archived) that said an inquiry was not necessary. We did not find any reputable evidence of this alleged complicity. An investigation by our fellow International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) signatory Full Fact similarly found no evidence that Starmer "tried to block the prosecution of Muslim grooming gangs" during his time as head of the CPS. Starmer denied the claims during an address to reporters on Jan. 6. We have reached out to Starmer via the Prime Minister's Office and Musk via Tesla for any further comment from either party. We will update this report should we get further responses. When asked about Musk's allegations on Jan. 6, Starmer first said (at the 19:22 time stamp in the video below) that he imagined people were "more interested about what's going to happen with the NHS, frankly, than what's happening on Twitter." The National Health Service (NHS) is the public health system in the U.K. Twitter is the former name of X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer then dismissed the claims as false, though without directly naming Musk, saying: "Because 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." He then went on to address allegations against Jess Phillips directly: And 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 dreamed 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 institutions when I was chief prosecutor, I'm prepared to call out this for what it is. We've seen this playbook many times. Whipping up intimidation and threats of violence, hoping that the media will amplify it. 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 are prepared to debase themselves and their country. Shortly after this speech, Musk hit back again, doubling down on claims that Starmer was "complicit" (archived) in grooming gangs and deriding the prime minister as "despicable" (archived). Phillips spoke to BBC Newsnight and Sky News in the U.K, telling Newsnight host Victoria Derbyshire that threats to her safety had gone up since the claims were made. Speaking to Sky News, Phillips called the claims "ridiculous" and said that Musk should "crack on with this 'getting to Mars'" rather than interfering in British politics, according to a report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phillips has previously been the target of threats. BBC News reported on Jan. 7 that a man had been charged following reports of threats towards the minister between April 2024 and January 2025. Musk had previously posted (archived) about grooming gangs in the U.K. in August 2024, tagging the newly elected Starmer to ask: "Is this still happening?" alongside an image of a a newspaper front page from 2014 about grooming gang convictions in Rotherham. Then, on Jan. 1, 2025, Musk responded to a GB News report that Phillips had turned down a request from Oldham Council for a government inquiry into grooming gangs in the area. "She deserves to be in prison," Musk wrote (archived) of Phillips. Starmer Reopened Closed Cases, Instated New Guidance During Time at CPS Musk's claim, and the versions of it that have spread (archived) to other social media platforms (archived), related directly to Starmer's time as head of the CPS from 2008-2013. The CPS prosecutes criminal cases in England and Wales after they have been investigated, and is an independent body from the police and government. We did not find any reputable evidence in our research that indicated Starmer was complicit in the actions of grooming gangs in the U.K. from 2008-2013. Indeed, two facts from his time as head of the CPS point to his being a chief prosecutor who overhauled the system for prosecuting child sexual abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, our fellow International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) signatory Full Fact in the U.K. checked a claim that Starmer, as chief prosecutor, "tried to block the prosecution of Muslim grooming gangs" and found no evidence of this. In 2012, nine men were convicted of being part of a child sexual exploitation ring, or grooming gang, in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, in the north of England. The case was previously investigated but not prosecuted in 2008, a decision that was reversed in 2011 by Starmer's newly appointed Chief Crown Prosecutor for North West England, Nazir Afzal. Afzal and Starmer both gave evidence to the Home Affairs Committee in November 2012 about their work in the Rochdale case and the procedural challenges they had faced. This government committee, made up of members of the British Parliament from across the three largest political parties, is responsible for scrutinizing the work of the Home Office and related bodies. Following the Rochdale convictions and renewed discussions around the race of the perpetrators and age of the victims, Starmer spoke to the British newspaper The Times about the CPS and how it prosecuted rape cases. In the interview he remarked on shortcomings in how the CPS handled these cases and its approach to the victims. According to Full Fact and a copy of the paywalled article quote on the website of the London Criminal Courts Solicitors' Association, Starmer said: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a number of cases presented to us, particularly in cases involving groups, there's clearly an issue of ethnicity that has to be understood and addressed. As prosecutors we shouldn't shy away from that. But if we're honest it's the approach to the victims, the credibility issue, that causes these cases not to be prosecuted in the past. There was a lack of understanding. Afzal also touched on the discussion of race in relation to the Rochdale case the nine convicted men were Asian and their victims were white at the Home Affairs Committee, echoing Starmer's sentiment above: race was "an issue but not the issue" in prosecutions. During his time at the CPS, Starmer issued new guidelines for prosecutors on child sexual abuse cases in court that were praised by organizations such as children's charity Barnardo's. A key part of these guidelines was the "approach to the victims" mentioned in the Times quote. The guidelines addressed factors around victims that, in the past, might have led to a case being dropped or dismissed such as clothing, behavior or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to reporting in the Guardian. Musk, Opposition Call for National Inquiry Despite Publication in 2022 In one of his numerous posts on X about child sexual abuse, Musk initially supported calls for a "national enquiry." Similar calls were also made by Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, currently leading the opposition, and other Conservative politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, the U.K. has recently held a national inquiry into child sexual abuse: The Report of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. The inquiry looked into the "extent to which State and non-State institutions failed in their duty of care to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation" and delivered its findings in 2022, including 20 recommendations for improvements in the field. The inquiry included an investigation into child sexual exploitation by organized networks like, for example, grooming gangs. Starmer also referenced this report in his Jan 6. speech, noting a complaint also made by the report's author, Professor Alexis Jay CBE: that the recommendations had not yet been implemented under the Conservatives, who were in government in the U.K. when the report was published. In 2023, Jay told the Independent newspaper: "We spent eight years and a great deal of money it's in the nature of a public inquiry that they cost a lot, but more important is that the outcome of it is that those recommendations are implemented." European Leaders Decry Musk Involvement Starmer is not the first foreign leader who has dealt with allegations made on X by Musk about non-U.S. domestic politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December, Musk openly endorsed the right-wing populist party Alternative fur Deutschland and called German Chancellor Olaf Scholz an "oaf" who "will lose" (archived) following allegations of undue meddling through the AfD endorsement. On Jan. 6, Emannuel Macron, the president of France, referenced this exchange in a speech to the nation's ambassadors, saying: "Who could have imagined, 10 years ago, that the owner of one of the world's largest social networks would intervene directly in elections, including in Germany?" Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre told national broadcaster NRK on Jan. 6: "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." Back in the U.K. Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrat Party, the country's third-largest political party, called for the U.S. ambassador to be summoned over Musk's comments. Davey wrote: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. It's in our national interest to rebuild trade and security ties with our allies in Europe. We have reached out to the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office to ask whether the U.S. ambassador has or will be summoned over Musk's claims. Sources: About CPS | The Crown Prosecution Service. https://www.cps.gov.uk/about-cps. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. Adamson, Thomas. "Macron Affirms Trump Has 'solid Ally' in France, Urges Realism from Ukraine over Territory." AP News, 6 Jan. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/macron-diplomacy-speech-trump-ukraine-731e5a1695f108a3fc87dd51be0ea3ee. Badenoch, Kemi. "The Time Is Long Overdue for a Full National Inquiry into the Rape Gangs Scandal." X, 2 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/KemiBadenoch/status/1874749990842814606. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bowcott, Owen. "CPS Issues New Guidelines on Investigating Child Sex Abuse Cases." The Guardian, 16 Oct. 2013. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/oct/17/cps-guidelines-child-sex-abuse. "Child Sex Abuse Cases: New CPS Guidance." Sky News, https://news.sky.com/story/child-sex-abuse-cases-new-cps-guidance-10431271. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. Davey, Ed. "People Have Had Enough of Elon Musk Interfering with Our Country's Democracy When He Clearly Knows Nothing about Britain." X, 6 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/EdwardJDavey/status/1876258736131416409. "Devon Man Charged with Malicious Communications towards Jess Phillips." BBC News, 7 Jan. 2025, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7862wqlqy2o. "Elon Musk's 'disinformation' Endangering Me, Says Jess Phillips." BBC News, 7 Jan. 2025, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn7r0pzz57vo. Elysee. "Conference Des Ambassadrices et Des Ambassadeurs : Le Discours Du President Emmanuel Macron." YouTube, 6 Jan. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/live/wAgSoGXSYec?t=352s. Home Affairs Committee - Minutes of Evidence. 13 Nov. 2012, https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmhaff/494/121113.htm. "Independent Safeguarding 'Only Way to Restore Trust' in Church of England." The Independent, 28 Nov. 2024, https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/alexis-jay-church-of-england-cbe-archbishop-princess-royal-b2655649.html. ITV News. "'Child Sex Abuse Cases Have Been Plagued by Myths.'" ITV News, 17 Oct. 2013, https://www.itv.com/news/update/2013-10-17/dpp-child-sex-abuse-cases-have-been-plagued-by-myths/. "Jess Phillips Hits Back at Elon Musk and Says He Should 'Crack on with Getting to Mars.'" Sky News, https://news.sky.com/story/jess-phillips-has-more-important-things-to-think-about-than-elon-musk-13285103. Accessed 7 Jan. 2025. Kearns, Alicia. . ". @CPhilpOfficial and I Have Written to the Home Secretary & Jess Philips Regarding Grooming Gangs." X, 2 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/aliciakearns/status/1874837861293531627. "Keir Starmer's Time as Director of Public Prosecutions." The Labour Party, 4 June 2024, https://labour.org.uk/updates/stories/keir-starmers-time-as-director-of-public-prosecutions/. Meyer, Jim. "Police Probe Three More 'major' Child Sex Grooming Rings." Lccsa, 8 Jan. 2014, https://www.lccsa.org.uk/police-probe-three-more-major-child-sex-grooming-rings/. Morgan, Fred. "ELON MUSK Has Just Posted This on His Personal X Feed." Facebook, 3 Jan. 2025, https://www.facebook.com/fred.morgan1/posts/pfbid02SFffgER8f7wkv5nzuhufCRn1z38WFzMWNyX5vAaNgvRDgD7XSi4ACaJLkxMS66N6l. Musk, Elon. "In the UK, Serious Crimes Such as Rape Require the Crown Prosecution Service's Approval for the Police to Charge Suspects." X, 2 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1874664089894695221. ---. "Is This Still Happening? ." X, 6 Aug. 2024, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1820804792240734655. ---. "Jess Philips Is a Rape Genocide Apologist." X, 3 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1875145167633887358. ---. "National Inquiry Now!" X, 3 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1875160691151409643. ---. "She Deserves to Be in Prison." X, 1 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1874575303626174956. ---. "Starmer Is Complicit in the Crimes." X, 6 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1876145788683981126. ---. "Starmer Was Deeply Complicit in the Mass Rapes in Exchange for Votes. ." X, 6 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1876243077565972695. ---. "True." X, 6 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1876131918191943726. ---. "What a Wicked Witch She Is." X, 4 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1875559449697681643. ---. "What an Insane Thing to Say! ." X, 6 Jan. 2025, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1876245946348208601. Musk, Elon. "Chancellor Oaf Schitz or Whatever His Name Is Will Lose." X, 30 Dec. 2024, https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1873703238245192158. "Musk schaltet sich in deutschen Wahlkampf ein und unterstutzt AfD." tagesschau.de, https://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/amerika/musk-deutscher-wahlkampf-100.html. Accessed 7 Jan. 2025. "No Evidence Keir Starmer Tried to Block the Prosecution of Muslim Grooming Gangs." Full Fact, 28 July 2022, https://fullfact.org/online/starmer-muslim-grooming-prosecution-crime/. "Norway PM Worried by Musk Involvement in Politics Outside US." Reuters, 6 Jan. 2025. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/norway-pm-worried-by-musk-involvement-politics-outside-us-2025-01-06/. NRK. "Stre om Musk: Bekymringsfullt." NRK, 6 Jan. 2025, https://www.nrk.no/nyheter/store-om-musk_-bekymringsfullt-1.17193430. Operation Stovewood: Seven Men Jailed for a Total of 106 Years for Sexually Abusing Two Young Girls in Rotherham | The Crown Prosecution Service. https://www.cps.gov.uk/cps/news/operation-stovewood-seven-men-jailed-total-106-years-sexually-abusing-two-young-girls. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025. Report of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. 2022. "Rochdale Grooming Trial: Nine Found Guilty of Child Sex Charges." BBC News, 8 May 2012. www.bbc.co.uk, https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-17989463. Spiga, Gaya. "Starmer Was Complicit in the RAPE OF BRITAIN When He Was Head of Crown Prosecution for 6 Years." Facebook, 3 Jan. 2025, https://www.facebook.com/gaya.spiga.9/posts/pfbid02rqBoReyLfdAyNRaB8uPU7nUPeKqVGenu7vpaTXxC1Axra7C2EBCz2BWxKj3UAMzRl. Thornton, Lucy. "Horrific Betrayal of 1400 Children." PressReader.Com, 27 Aug. 2014, https://www.pressreader.com/uk/daily-mirror/20140827/283081297392012?srsltid=AfmBOooV_P8JExUd_k2rEc7EN_L3puV1abEr3e6KTo5gASLU4P0J0nE5. Watch Live: Prime Minister Keir Starmer Announces the Government's Plan to End Waiting List Backlogs. Directed by UK Prime Minister, Livestream, 2025, https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?ref=watch_permalink&v=1650952602487102. Updates: Jan. 7, 2025: This report was updated to include comments from Jess Phillips to the British media following Musk's claims. Elon Musks moral crusade concerning U.K. rape gangs has taken a strange turn, as he appears to have offered his backing to a misogynist former kickboxer accused of sex trafficking who wants to be the countrys next Prime Minister. The tech billionaire has recently become interested in British politics, most notably calling for King Charles III to dissolve parliament and hold a general election to replace the current Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. (This is absolutely impossible under the British political system.) Musk has expressed apprehension at the ruling Labour party leaders failure to carry out an inquest into child grooming gangs across England, despite the fact that there has already been a national inquiry. What Andrew Tate is doing will be studied for many years. Even if he doesn't win and become Prime Minister, his involvement will transform British politics & create an army of men demanding change. "My success, even if I do not become Prime Minister, will force the parties of pic.twitter.com/z6J1ep2ekU George (@BehizyTweets) January 6, 2025 And now, he has taken to X to agree that Andrew Tates entry into British politics is the answer. Musk replied to a post that said what Tate is doing will be studied for many years. Even if he doesnt win and become Prime Minister, his involvement will transform British politics & create an army of men demanding change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tate, a controversial right-wing figure and self-proclaimed misogynist was once banned from Twitter for saying women should bear responsibility for being sexually assaulted. The ex-professional kick boxer was born in the U.S. and raised in the U.K. and he recently announced that he intends to run to be the next Prime Minister of the latter, asking his 10.5 million X followers in an ultra serious post if he should do so to save Britan. And despite the spelling error and basic lack of understanding of British politics (you cannot simply run to be PM, you must first win local elections and become a member of parliamentand also head up the main political party) his post gained traction. Musk appeared to offer support to the man who, alongside his brother, faces criminal allegations in Romania of rape, human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to exploit women. After those legal proceedings are complete, the pair are set to be extradited to the U.K. where they face additional allegations of rape and human trafficking. They deny all charges. Andrew Tate (front) and his brother Tristan Tate (back R) speak to journalists after having been released from detention in Bucharest, Romania. / AFP via Getty Images Regardless of his alleged involvement in the very crime Musk has become so angry about, he endorsed the post that shared a video of Tate and his brother Tristan launching the Bruv Party, and complaining that the U.K. has suffered a major decline under current, and previous, leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The generational failure which the constituents of the U.K. have been forced to endure is legendarily terrible, Tate barked in the clip. In an X post Tuesday morning, Tate called himself the unofficial Prime Minister of The United Kingdom and said he whole heartedly supports Greenlands annexation into the American empire [sic]. Elon Musk sticking his oar into U.K. politics hasnt gone down well on the other side of the Atlantic, especially after he called for far right criminal Tommy Robinson to be freed from prison, where he is holed up for repeating libelous slurs against a Syrian refugee. The worlds richest man tweeted Free Tommy Robinson to his 210 million X followers earlier this month. Musk also said a controversial anti-establishment documentary by Robinson was worth watching. Musk has become Donald Trump's right hand man. / Brandon Bell / Getty Images Politicians in the U.K. have since spoken out against Musks backing of Robinson, who has a long criminal rap sheet. Alicia Kearns, who shadows Labours Jess Phillips as the Conservative spokesperson on safeguarding, told the BBC that Musk had fallen prone to sharing things on his X platform without critically assessing them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She accused Musk of drawing away attention from the survivors and from the victims of rape gangs, and lionising people like Tommy Robinsonwhich is frankly dangerous." Musks apparent support for Tate and Robinson comes after he offered his support for Germanys far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Elon Musks personal foreign policy of promoting far-right parties is sparking outrage among leaders in Europe and handing them a dilemma: How do they rebuke the tech titan without angering his new patron Donald Trump? Musk could easily be dismissed as a mischievous antagonist who simply loves to shock and is pursuing his own obsessions one X post at a time. But hes not just some troll. Hes the worlds richest man, owns some of the globes most strategic and influential businesses, and is wielding a mighty social media network. Musk is highlighting his enormous influence as a populist force galvanizing political provocateurs as a kind of one-man supranational non-state power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes also previewing the international disruption that likely lies in store when the president-elect returns to the White House in two weeks and the potential conflicts of interest ahead. Thats because the Tesla and SpaceX pioneer will not simply be a powerful free agent but an inner circle adviser to the new US government at the head of the Department of Government Efficiency. Its therefore going to be hard to know where Musks policy ends and official US foreign policy starts. To foreigners, his attacks on elected officials with whom he disagrees risk coming across as an attempt by a future US government to interfere in the politics of fellow democracies and sovereign nations to destabilize their governments. And his moves beg the question of whether hes working at Trumps direction, is seen by the president-elect as a useful vanguard of disruption or could soon end up irking the 47th president as he tries to put his stamp on the world. Will Musk be carrying out Trumps foreign policy agenda, acting as a personal ambassador of Trump to everywhere? said Lindsay Gorman, managing director and senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund. Or will Musk be advancing his own vision for global affairs, which may align with Trump in some ways, but not in others. And then what will be the power dynamics between those two? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps willingness to tolerate Musks fierce attacks on allied leaders is also a sign that the coming months could be even more rocky for Americas friends than his first term. That reality played out Monday when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation. Trudeau had long since squandered the trust of Canadians and his own Liberal Party. But Trumps threats of imposing a 25% tariff exacerbated the political crisis in Ottawa and may have hastened the departure of an antagonist Trump branded the governor of Americas 51st state. The apparent sense of freedom that Trump and Musk feel in playing politics abroad is also a marker of the self-confidence in MAGA world ahead of Trumps inauguration. Theyre demonstrating a belief that their strength allows them to bully smaller countries and may augur a new and brasher incarnation of America First. European leaders line up to condemn Musk Musks attacks conveyed to his 211 million followers on X have snapped the patience of the leaders of some of Americas closest traditional allies and stoked already elevated transatlantic tensions ahead of Trumps second term. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has been targeted by Musk for weeks, warned the SpaceX owner had crossed a line after he said the British minister responsible for safeguarding children should be jailed and was an apologist for rape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron accused Musk of fueling a new international reactionary movement and intervening in elections. Norways Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre said it was worrying that a man with such power was so directly involved in the affairs of other countries. The German government has already criticized the multi-billionaire for backing a far-right pro-Russia party, the Alternative for Germany (AfD), in upcoming elections. Musk will host the partys leader in an interview on X this week. The resentment provoked by Musk reflects the core ideology of Trumps Make America Great Again movement. He is going after establishment politicians and seeking to promote far-right, outsider populists whose views and temperaments mirror those of the president-elect. In Europe, as in the United States, many voters have become resentful of governments they believe have failed to improve their economic situations and to stem immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To many Americans, Musk is simply exercising his First Amendment rights. But in Europe, a continent haunted by the horror of far-right extremism, his support for radical populism is seen by many leaders as offensive and less an example of free speech than an attempt to stifle freedoms and democracy. If theres a strategy in Musks rabble rousing, its that opposition forces in these countries are far more in line with Trumps anti-immigration and anti-free trade instincts than the leaders who are currently in place. And Trump may be hoping to promote political interlocutors who would be more sympathetic to him. In France, for instance, the far-right National Rally party (formerly known as the National Front) of Marine Le Pen has its best chance yet in 2027 to win in the two-round presidential election system that has always blocked it from power. While the AfD is unlikely to form a government in the German system that promotes coalitions, its influence may grow after federal elections in February. And Trump has already rolled out the red carpet at Mar-a-Lago to far-right European leaders including Hungarys strongman Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Italys right-wing populist Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who may be the strongest national leader in the European Union right now. Trumpism is incompatible with some of Americas allies The nationalist DNA of Trumps foreign policy is often a reaction to policies and demeanor of center-left leaders in the West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This may help explain the president-elects tormenting of Trudeau who, as a self-professed feminist who offered a warm welcome to immigrants, is the antithesis of MAGA. Trudeau is likely to be succeeded in the short-term by a Liberal Party prime minister, but the most likely outcome of a general election that must take place this year is a new government under Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre. The Albertan shares some of Trumps populist tendencies, including on immigration, and his penchant for awarding his opponents mocking nicknames. But he has also condemned Trumps branding of Canada as the 51st state, and at the helm of a majority government, he might turn out to be a more formidable negotiator on trade issues than a severely weakened Trudeau. Similarly, if Musk is trying to destabilize Starmer, his actions spring from a misunderstanding of Britains political dynamics. The Labour Party leader has just won a huge landslide and wont have to face the electorate for again for nearly five years. And Musk even the far-right Reform Party leader Nigel Farage, the father of Brexit and a friend of Trump, is now deemed by Musk as insufficiently radical after he said he didnt agree with the X owners support for jailed anti-Muslim far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson. Starmer felt compelled to speak out after Musk used X to accuse him of being complicit in the actions of grooming gangs in a historic child abuse scandal that he handled while director of public prosecutions. In other distortions of the truth, Musk also claimed Jess Phillips, the government safeguarding minister, was pure evil and a wicked creature. Starmer warned that those that are spreading lies and misinformation, as far and as wide as possible theyre not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves. He added: 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite Starmers tough tone, the showdown with Musk is unwelcome turbulence for a prime minister, who, like all other world leaders, has been trying to build a relationship with Trump to spare his nation from the worst consequences of a new US foreign policy built on forcing American might on friends and foes alike. But the transatlantic fury might soon become a problem for Trump as well. Despite his transactional instincts and desire to intimidate other leaders, Trump may need the help of American allies one day, and Musks antics are making it far harder for them to accommodate an incoming American president who is already deeply unpopular in many of their nations. Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, the party with the third most members in Britains House of Commons, reflected that antipathy toward Trump on Monday. People have had enough of Elon Musk interfering with our countrys democracy when he clearly knows nothing about Britain, Davey said, ironically, on X. Its time to summon the US ambassador to ask why an incoming US official is suggesting the UK government should be overthrown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks jabs might also cause problems stateside. They already look like a headache for more conventional US foreign policy officials, including Marco Rubio, the Florida senator Trump has picked to serve as secretary of state, and Florida Rep. Michael Waltz, his pick for national security adviser. I think its going to get very confusing very quickly. I dont envy the career diplomats at the State Department, who are certainly going to have their hands full trying to figure out whose agenda theyre carrying out, said Gorman. Apparent conflicts between US policy and Musks business interests pose another complication. He has already sat in on calls between Trump and world leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose forces use Musks Starlink internet system to support their war against Russia. Musks massive commercial exposure in China might also weigh heavily on Trumps approach and may clash with the hawkish instincts of Waltz and Rubio, who are set to be part of the most anti-Beijing Cabinet in modern American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Trumps first term, when he made foreign policy by tweet, America became a force for global disruption. Musks prominent role in his second administration may make those four years seem stable by comparison. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Elon Musk has suggested in a post on X that Americans should liberate" the British from their "tyrannical government" as he attempts to insert himself deeper into British politics and continues to feud with the countrys ruling Labour Party over its handling of child abuse cases. In perhaps his strangest intervention in foreign politics yet, the Tesla and Space X multi-billionaire asked for a show of hands in a poll on his social network Monday on his statement: "America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. It had 39 million views by Monday evening. America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 6, 2025 Whether he was referring to harsh criticism, covert support for domestic guerrillas, or military action in the liberation was unclear, but he also added that it was "not a bad idea" for Britain to become a U.S. state, as Donald Trump has suggested for Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musks own father, also-billionaire Errol Musk, urged the public to ignore his son. People dont have to listen to what he says. Id say dont worry about it. Tell him to get lost. Musks dad told LBC News. Elon Musk's latest X post is part of an escalating battle between the richest person on Earth and the British Labour Party, which was elected in a landslide last July, but has since suffered a sharp drop in popularity. As part of that battle, Musk a dues-paying major ally of the openly authoritarian Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced support for far-right activists and causes in the UK, just as he did in Germany last month. At the center of the dispute is Labour's record, and that of British prime minister Keir Starmer, over a series of high-profile child abuse scandals in which authorities reportedly failed to investigate gangs of largely British Pakistani men who trafficked and raped thousands of young girls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past six days, Musk has accused Starmer of being "complicit in mass rape in exchange for votes," called British safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a "rape genocide apologist" who "should be in jail," and reportedly called for London's police chief Sir Mark Rowley to be "extradited" to the U.S. In a speech on Monday morning, Starmer shot back: Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and wide as possible are not interested in victims, theyre interested in themselves ... 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." He added: 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. Research has suggested that most perpetrators of group-based child abuse are white, although evidence on the ethnicity of British sex offenders is reportedly unreliable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nevertheless, there have been several cases in which gangs of mostly British Pakistani men in northern England groomed and raped young girls many of whom were white. In many of those cases, later investigations found that police and local authorities had failed to act in part because they were afraid of inflaming racial tensions. As the chief prosecutor for England and Wales between 2008 and 2013, Starmer oversaw a decision not to bring charges in one such case, and has been accused of authorities' failures to take action. But there is no evidence Starmer was personally involved in that specific case, and he later pushed for a tougher stance against child abuse gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk's attacks began when Phillips rejected calls for a new national inquiry into child abuse in the city of Oldham, saying that it was up to local authorities to conduct such a probe. Her predecessors in the Conservative Party made the same decision back in 2022, and failed to implement the recommendations of a previous national inquiry into such scandals. Grooming gangs have also been a major talking point for British far right and anti-Muslim activists, whom Musk has repeatedly praised or voiced agreement with. Emphasizing a segment of crimes involving immigrants plays into Musks anti-immigrant perspective, even though he himself is an immigrant from South Africa. A New York woman has been reunited with a special family heirloom thanks to some help from a group of strangers who helped her track it down after the piece of jewelry went missing on a JetBlue flight. Diana Freedman, of Long Island, had just traveled from California to New York in December when she realized she had lost her grandmother's necklace, which she had been wearing, according to local ABC affiliate WABC-TV. Freedman was admittedly devastated when she realized the necklace, which has been in her family for nearly a century, was missing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I kept trying to re-track in my brain where it could possibly be, she recalled. So Freedman went on the hunt for her necklace and received help from some good Samaritans along the way. Related: Hurricane Milton Turns Up Couple's Wedding Ring That Had Been Missing for Nearly a Decade First, a deputy at Palm Beach International Airport helped her view security footage that showed she was not wearing the necklace made by her grandfather as she was leaving the terminal. Then, Freedman shared a post on the "Long Islands Amazing Moms" Facebook group and explained her story, where Penny Neferis, JetBlue's head of business continuity, happened too see her plea for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When I saw it, I immediately was like I can track that plane down, I know where that plane is right now," Neferis recalled to WABC. 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. After scouring the lost and found items at Palm Beach International Airport, the necklace was recovered. The jewelry was back in Freedmans hands 48 hours after it went missing. "It was happy tears for a long time after that, and I still feel it right now, Freedman said following the reunion. I feel so lucky and so blessed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Shop Worker Reunited with Engagement Ring After It Got Lost in Customers Bag: Restored My Faith in Humanity Tom Hungerman, the JetBlue Stations Operator who searched the lost and found drawers, said it was amazing to help make something this special happen during the holiday season. "You don't always get these opportunities to create that magic moment, that holiday miracle, if you will," he told WABC. Read the original article on People An aircraft at NAS Jacksonville is going to help honor former U.S. President Jimmy Carter later in the week. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< A component of U.S. Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornets from Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana is going to be part of a flyover to honor the man. The aircraft was scheduled to arrive on Tuesday afternoon. NAS Jacksonville warned of increased noise during the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can email noise complaints to NASJAX.NOISECOMPLAINTS@US.NAVY.MIL. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. We may be about to discover the fate of the Mars samples collected by NASA's Perseverance rover. On Tuesday, January 7 at 1:00 pm EST, NASA administrator Bill Nelson and associate administrator Nicky Fox are going to provide an update to the mission left in limbo. You can tune in live to the teleconference via the NASA website, or the livestream embedded below. "The briefing," NASA's Jessica Taveau wrote in a media advisory, "will include NASA's efforts to complete its goals of returning scientifically selected samples from Mars to Earth while lowering cost, risk, and mission complexity." The joint ESA and NASA Mars Sample Return mission has been in trouble for some time now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mission itself began with the deployment of the Perseverance rover in February 2021. Part of Perseverance's ongoing mission is to gather interesting samples of Martian rock. Those samples are currently in canisters on the surface of Mars, left to be collected later by another mission and returned to Earth. In 2023, the future of the Mars sample return mission became shaky after an independent review determined that the program had "unrealistic budget and schedule expectations", an "unwieldy structure" and was "not arranged to be led effectively". The House and Senate appropriations committees subsequently recommended a budget that included a cut of US$454,080,000 to NASA's 2024 budget, specifically from the Mars Sample Return mission. NASA also reduced spending on the mission, and laid off a large number of workers and contractors from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is leading the mission. This led to some alarm that the mission may be axed, leaving the canisters filled by Perseverance to remain on the surface of Mars for the foreseeable future. In April 2024, Nelson and Fox revealed that the mission had not been canned, and that the space agency was seeking a way forward that would both reduce the mission cost, and bring the sample to Earth earlier than 2040. In October 2024, NASA announced the assembly of a new team to assess the future of the Mars Sample Return mission, with a full report anticipated by the end of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Odds are good that the livestream will provide the findings of this report. "To organize a mission at this level of complexity, we employ decades of lessons on how to run a large mission, including incorporating the input we get from conducting independent reviews," Fox said in April 2024. "Our next steps will position us to bring this transformational mission forward and deliver revolutionary science from Mars providing critical new insights into the origins and evolution of Mars, our solar system, and life on Earth." Fingers crossed that the mission still stands. Related News NASA announced Tuesday that it's exploring two landing options to move forward with its mission to retrieve environmental samples from Mars at a lower cost. The goal of the Mars Sample Return Program, which is being planned jointly with the European Space Agency (ESA), is to retrieve samples of rock, gas and loose surface material that were collected by NASA's Perseverance rover and deliver them back to Earth. Last year, the agency said it was revising plans for the mission due to the estimated cost and long wait time for the samples' return journey to Earth. PHOTO: Mars Sample Retrieval Lander Concept Illustration: A Sample Retrieval Lander would launch in 2028, carrying a NASA-led Mars rocket and small Mars helicopters. (JPL-Caltech/NASA) At the time, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said independent reviews estimated the project would cost between $8 billion and $11 billion and that the samples may not return until 2040, which was unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: NASA says it's revising the Mars Sample Return mission due to cost, long wait time During Tuesdays press conference, Nelson presented the two options being considered to help the Sample Retrieval Lander touch down on Mars. The first option would be the "sky crane" landing method, which would use a heat shield and parachute for the initial descent and then employ retrorockets to lower the vehicle to the surface. The method was previously used for the Perseverance and Curiosity missions. The second option would be to use a commercially provided mass delivery system with commercial partners such as SpaceX or Blue Origin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Either of these two options are creating a much more simplified, faster and less expensive version than the original plan, Nelson said. He added that the decision regarding which option to use will come in 2026. The sky crane option is estimated to cost between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion, while the commercial heavy lift vehicle option carries an estimated cost of between $5.8 billion and $7.1 billion. Both options would likely return the samples to Earth between 2035 and 2029. Nelson said both options involve cleaning Martian dust from the tubes on the planet surface instead of on the return vehicle, and using one of the spare arms on the Mars Perseverance rover to transfer the samples to the Sample Retrieval Lander. MORE: Life on Mars: How volunteers in NASA's Mars simulator will live for a year PHOTO: Mars Sample Return mission concept with the Sample Retrieval Lander highlighted in color. (JPL-Caltech/NASA) NASA has previously said the samples will help scientists understand the geological history of Mars and the evolution of its climate, and could answer the question of if life ever existed on the Red Planet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency also says the samples could be studied by future generations using techniques yet to be invented. Perseverance, which landed in February 2021, has been collecting and storing samples in specially designed sealed titanium tubes that are roughly the size of a cigar. Nelson said on Tuesday that by the time the sample collection ends, Perseverance will have collected 30 samples. The mission's next steps would be the launch of the Sample Retrieval Lander to Mars, carrying with it a rocket and two helicopters to assist in the retrieval. Perseverance would carry the samples to the lander and attach them to the rocket, which would then launch from Mars the first rocket ever to launch from the surface of another planet to rendezvous with an Earth Return Orbiter, provided by the ESA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The orbiter would capture the capsule containing the samples, propel itself out of Mars orbit and carry the sample the rest of the way to Earth, according to NASA. The helicopters would be used as backups in case Perseverance is unable to carry the sample tubes to the lander, or to retrieve sample tubes that Perseverance might fail to return to the lander. NASA exploring two lower-cost options to go forward with Mars Sample Return mission originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Advanced satellite technology is allowing us to better understand the impact of global warming on the Greenland ice sheet. While the data is alarming, it can also be a tremendous asset for protecting our communities as climate change continues. What's happening? Researchers at England's Northumbria University are working with an international team of scientists to track changes in the ice sheet, per SciTechDaily. To do this, they're employing both a NASA and an ESA satellite to provide a more comprehensive look at its thinning. NASA's CryoSat-2 satellite uses radar, which is able to pass through clouds but doesn't reflect off the ice sheet's surface. ESA's ICESat-2 uses lasers, which can't pass through clouds but do reflect. The complementary approach to ice sheet measurement allows for the best possible accuracy currently available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent study published in Geophysical Research Letters looked at four years of data provided by these satellites to paint a picture of changes in ice sheet elevation. It found what you likely already suspect: The ice sheet is thinning dramatically. Why is measuring the Greenland Ice Sheet important? The Greenland Ice Sheet is a crucial bellwether for monitoring climate change. It holds around 8% of the planet's freshwater supply. As it melts, global sea levels will rise, increasing severe weather events, and impacting coastal communities in various ways. Tracking changes in the ice sheet may just seem like a way to follow how much trouble the planet is in, but that's not exactly true. It actually allows us to better prepare for the global changes that may be on the horizon. While we continue the fight to stop the practices that contribute to sea levels rising, we can also take action to protect our communities and ecosystems. Understanding the rate of thinning can provide greater clarity for the actions and policies required to do this. What's being done about ice sheet thinning? One way organizations are looking to combat ice sheet thinning is by seeking alternatives to dirty energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April 2024, engineering giant Kent was awarded a contract to begin work on a massive offshore wind farm in Scotland. The clean energy project is intended to further Scotland's goal of achieving net zero by 2045. Which of these features would most effectively convince you to buy an EV? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind European developer Aquila Clean Energy was given the green light to begin work on five solar plants across Spain in September 2024. These plants won't just reduce carbon output; they'll lower energy bills for almost 350,000 homes, and create 2,400 jobs. If you're looking to contribute to these efforts, one of the best ways to do so is to install solar panels on your home. Solar energy reduces both your carbon footprint and your utility bills. There are even government rebates that may help you with the cost. 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. After an independent review concluded NASA's plans to robotically collect and return rock and soil samples from Mars could cost up to $11 billion, NASA "pulled the plug" and is focusing on two options to reduce costs and speed up the return of the samples, agency Administrator Bill Nelson said Tuesday. Option one would use the same "sky crane" landing system proven with NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rovers, a smaller sample collection spacecraft, a smaller rocket to boost the samples into orbit around the red planet and a European Space Agency spacecraft to capture them and fly them back to Earth. A The plan is similar to but less technologically challenging than the original architecture that was ruled out because of high costs and a sample return in the 2040 timeframe. Option one would cost between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion and get the samples back as early as 2035 or as late as 2039, depending on congressional funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Option two would rely on companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin or others to provide a "heavy" Mars landing craft that could deliver the sample collection spacecraft to the surface, along with the Mars Ascent Vehicle needed to blast the collected samples to orbit where the ESA spacecraft would capture and return them to Earth. As with option one, the timeframe for sample return would be the mid- to late 2030s. In both cases, the sample collection spacecraft would rely on a radioisotope thermoelectric generator, or RTG, instead of solar panels, making the craft immune to sunlight-blocking dust storms while keeping the solid propellant in the MAV from getting too cold. "NASA is going to explore two potential options, architecture possibilities," Nelson said. "The decision over the course of time, with all the engineering that has to go into it, the final decision (on which option to pursue) is likely to come in 2026." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he had not discussed the mission replanning with the Trump administration or the administrator-nominee Jared Isaacman and does not know what level of support they might bring to the table. "But I think it was a responsible thing to do, not to hand a new administration just one alternative," Nelson said. "If they want to have a Mars sample return, which I can't imagine that they don't, I don't think we want the only sample return coming back on a Chinese spacecraft." He called a planned Chinese effort a "grab-and-go kind of mission whereas ours has been a very methodical process ... to find different samples of different layers showing different ages of material and rocks." A montage of artist's impressions show the different elements of NASA's original Mars Sample Return mission architecture. A large solar-powered sample collection lander is seen at right with the Perseverance Mars rover and its Ingenuity helicopter visible at left. A Mars Ascent Vehicle, carrying collected rock and soil samples, is shown blasting off to a European Space Agency spacecraft in orbit that's standing by to carry the samples back to Earth. / Credit: NASA/ESA/JPL-Caltech He was referring to the agency's Perseverance rover, which landed on the red planet in February 2021 and has been collecting samples across the floor of Jezero crater, an ancient, dried-up lakebed once fed by a rushing river. The sediments may hold evidence of past microbial life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The samples, Nelson said, will provide a history "of what Mars was like millions of years ago when there was water in the lake, water coming down that river, and the big question, was there life millions of years ago? So I think the (incoming) administration will certainly conclude they want to proceed. What we wanted to do was to give them the best possible options." He said the Senate currently is budgeting $200 million for ongoing development of the Mars Sample Return mission in NASA's fiscal 2025 budget. The House number is $600 million. Whatever number is eventually agreed on, Nelson said NASA will need at least $300 million in the final budget. "And if they want to get this thing back earlier, they're going to have to put more money into it, even more than $300 million in fiscal year '25, and that would be the case every year going forward," Nelson said. In September 2023, an independent review board concluded the original multi-spacecraft sample return mission could cost as much as $10.9 billion, $4 billion to $5 billion more than originally expected. And even at that price, the mission would be stretched out and samples would not get back to Earth before 2040. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last April, "we pulled the plug on it," Nelson said, and announced NASA was seeking fresh ideas from agency engineers, researchers and the private sector to come up with alternative mission designs to reign in the costs and to get the samples back to Earth earlier. As originally envisioned, the Mars Sample Return mission, or MSR, was the most complex robotic planetary science mission ever attempted, one requiring a new NASA sample retrieval lander, one or more small helicopters to aid in sample recovery and a powerful solid-fuel rocket to launch the collected samples to orbit. Once in Mars orbit, the sample container would be collected by the European Space Agency and returned to Earth for detailed laboratory analysis. NASA originally hoped to launch the MSR mission, at a cost of nearly $6 billion, in 2028. But in September 2023, the independent review board concluded the project was not feasible given current budget projections, unrealistic schedules and a management structure that was not up to the task of getting the spacecraft ready for launch in time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The review panel concluded the project almost certainly could not get off the ground before 2030 and could cost between $8.4 billion and $10.9 billion depending on the final mission architecture. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Trump says he would use "economic force" to acquire Canada, but does not specify how NEW ORLEANS (WGNO)Visitors and families from all over came to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl. These visitors were shocked by the deadly terrorist attack that took place on Bourbon Street. WGNOs Kenny Lopez spoke with the Vinet family visiting from Nashville about the deadly terrorist attack. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. 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. The presence of avian influenza was recently discovered on a commercial egg farm near Palmyra, Wisconsin, forcing them to dispose of nearly 3 million chickens. To control the spread of the virus, the U.S. Department of Agriculture mandates testing of all poultry in a control area established around the infected farm before it can be sold or transported. (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 story was originally published by the Louisiana Illuminator 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. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) January is National Blood Donor Month and just one pint of blood can make a difference or even save someones life. Many people donate blood to the American Red Cross, which will help all patients. According to the agency, donations will benefit cancer patients, trauma patients, sickle cell patients, burn victims, and heart surgery and organ transplant patients. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, according to the American Red Cross. ODOT teams up with Waze to improve winter road safety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National Blood Donor Month started in 1970 with a proclamation from President Richard Nixon. This is an effort to raise awareness and increase the number of blood donations during the winter. According to the Red Cross, the effort each January honors blood donors while inspiring new ones to help save lives nationwide. Am I eligible to donate? Must be at least 16 years old in Ohio and most states to donate, according to the Red Cross You must weigh at least 110 pounds People can donate every 56 days, up to six times a year Must be in good health and feeling well NBC4 is partnering with WNCI and the American Red Cross with the annual blood drive on Tuesday, Jan. 7 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The NBC4 WNCI Blood Give-in will be held at the Columbus Airport Marriott, located at 1375 N. Cassady Ave., Columbus, OH 43219 (just off Interstate 670). To schedule an appointment with the blood drive, follow this link. If you cant make it to this drive, you can find additional blood donation drives near you. Other ways you can help during National Blood Donor Month are by holding your own drive, starting a virtual blood drive, donating, or becoming a volunteer. 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. By the end of the week, nearly a dozen NATO warships will reportedly begin patrolling the Baltic Sea to protect undersea cables in the region from sabotage. In addition, a U.K.-led 10-member consortium of northern European nations called the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) has reactivated an AI-based system to track suspicious ships in these waters. The actions are in response to the suspected deliberate severing on Christmas Day of the Estlink 2 undersea power cable and four undersea communications cables between Finland and Estonia, which you can read more about in our story here. The Christmas Day cable-breaking incidents are the latest in a series of such events in this strategically important region as tensions with Russia have mounted in the wake of its war on Ukraine. Finnish authorities say the Russian-linked Eagle S purposely dragged its anchor across the sea floor to break those cables. The ship was later found to be full of spy equipment. Finnish authorities detained the ship and its crew, which you can see in the following video. About 10 warships from NATOs Baltic Fleet as well as from individual member nations will be providing a presence to counter potential saboteurs, according to the Finnish Yie news outlet. They are expected to stay on station until April. Meanwhile, the Gulf of Finland, where the undersea cables were allegedly cut, will continue to be patrolled by Finnish and Estonian naval vessels, Yie explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO has a Standing Naval Maritime Group 1 (SNMG1), a fleet of warships prepared to respond to any threat around the clock. While the group primarily operates in the North and Baltic seas, it will be seen more frequently in the Baltic in the future particularly due to incidents like the recent damage to the Estlink 2 cable, the Estonian ERR news outlet reported. If the Russians see that we are present there, the likelihood of such sabotage acts immediately decreases, because saboteurs can be caught in the act, and once caught, its much easier to deal with them, Arjen Warnaar, commander of SNMG, told the publication. As we noted after Estlink 2 was cut, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte responded to a request by Finland and Estonia to help protect Estlink 1 by promising the alliance would enhance its presence in the Baltic Sea without offering any details. Spoke w/ @alexstubb about the ongoing Finnish-led investigation into possible sabotage of undersea cables. I expressed my full solidarity and support. #NATO will enhance its military presence in the Baltic Sea. Mark Rutte (@SecGenNATO) December 27, 2024 NATO on Tuesday also declined to provide specifics about its naval presence in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont discuss future operations nor do we discuss specific numbers of ships/assets employed in a given area of operations, a NATO naval spokesman told The War Zone in response to our questions. NATO has options and assets from many Allied nations. The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SHAPE), in close coordination with Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, Allied Maritime Command, and the involved nations are coordinating the employment of those options and assets. The spokesman added that weve had persistent military presence in the Baltic Sea and that is something that will continue in full support of our Baltic allies. We will continue to work with our allies to determine options and assets to maintain an enduring military presence. In addition to NATOs beefed-up naval presence in the Baltics, JEF last week activated Nordic Warden, an advanced UK-led reaction system to track potential threats to undersea infrastructure and monitor the Russian shadow fleet, following reported damage to a major undersea cable in the Baltic Sea, the U.K. Defense Ministry (MoD) said on Monday. The system was set up to protect critical undersea infrastructure and harnesses AI to assess data from a range of sources, including the Automatic Identification System (AIS) ships use to broadcast their position, to calculate the risk posed by each vessel entering areas of interest, according to the MoD. The JEF action reinforces existing and planned NATO responses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specific vessels identified as being part of Russias shadow fleet of oil tankers have been registered into the system so they can be closely monitored when approaching key areas of interest, the MoD noted. If a potential risk is assessed, the system will monitor the suspicious vessel in real-time and immediately send out a warning, which will be shared with JEF participant nations as well as NATO Allies. JEF is currently monitoring 22 areas of interest including parts of the English Channel, North Sea, Kattegat, and Baltic Sea from its operational headquarters in Northwood, the MoD explained. The system involves ships, aircraft, and personnel from JEF participant nations operating from the North Atlantic Ocean to the Baltic Sea. The U.K.-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) monitors 22 areas for suspicious activities, including parts of the English Channel and the North and Baltic seas. (Google Earth) The Nordic Warden system had an initial test run last summer and again in the fall during JEFs Exercise Joint Protector, which saw more than 300 UK personnel deploy to Latvia to demonstrate the ability of the U.K. to deploy its operational headquarters for JEF abroad at short notice. 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, U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey stated on Monday. Royal Danish Navy Absalon-class frigate HDMS Esbern Snare taking part in a JEF exercise. (JEF) In addition to Nordic Warden, the Gulf of Finland has had a ship reporting system in place, known as GOFREP, for the past 15 years, according to ERR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under this system, every ship entering the Gulf must report its destination and their movements are closely monitored. If a vessel deviates from its route, it may be stopped, according to the publication. Surveillance of the Gulf of Finland is so thorough that even if a ship switches off all its identification systems, it will still appear on radar. Authorities pay special attention to ships that attempt to navigate blind without transmitting identification signals. The Estlink incident is one of many involving suspected Russian and Chinese attacks on undersea infrastructure. Last week, the Chinese-owned vessel Shunxin-39 was suspected of severing an undersea cable off the Taiwanese coast, 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. Taiwans coast guard said the Chinese-owned Shunxin-39 severed an undersea telecom cable last week. (Twitter) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, Germany said damage to two communication cables running under the Baltic Sea was most likely the result of sabotage. The two cables in question are both fiber-optic communication cables, running along the Baltic seabed. One of these runs between the Swedish island of Gotland and Lithuania, and the other between Finland and Germany. Gotland is about 280 miles southwest of where the Estlink 2 cable was severed. A day later, Denmark confirmed it was monitoring a Chinese cargo vessel at the center of allegations surrounding that damage. The 735-foot-long Yi Peng 3 was identified as operating near the cables when the incidents occurred. The Chinese vessel had departed the Russian port of Ust-Luga, in the Leningrad region, close to the Estonian border, on Nov. 15 and had been scheduled to sail to Port Said, Egypt, where it was originally due to arrive on Dec. 3. Based on publicly available ship-tracking data, the Yi Peng 3 appears to have passed overhead both of the cables around the same time incidents of damage were first reported. The Chinese bulk carrier Yi Peng 3 was anchored and monitored by a Danish naval patrol vessel (unseen) in the sea of Kattegat, near the city of Granada in Jutland, Denmark, on Nov. 20, 2024. (Photo by Mikkel Berg Pedersen / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP) / Denmark OUT MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN Other suspicious activities have taken place in the Baltic Sea, including suspected sabotage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most notorious of these was a series of explosions along the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022. The cause is still being investigated by German authorities, however, The Wall Street Journal reported in August that it was a Ukrainian sabotage operation. Ukrainian officials denied that accusation. Outside of the Baltic, there have been other incidents of reported sabotage of critical communications cables, including one associated with Evenes Air Station in northern Norway, which happened in April but was only disclosed in August, as TWZ reported at the time. Norway has encountered other suspicious incidents, notably the cutting of a vital undersea cable connecting Svalbard to mainland Norway in 2022. As NATO nations react to the cable cut, Finland continues its investigation into Eagle S, a 750-foot-long, Cook Island-flagged tanker carrying Russian oil. The ships anchor was found next to drag marks near where Estlink 2 was severed, according to the Yie news outlet. The Swedish Navys HMS Belos lifted the anchor from the seabed. The Swedish Navy ship HMS Belos found the anchor of the Eagle S, a Russian-linked oil tanker suspected of severing Estlink 2 four undersea telecom cables. (Finnish Navy) A drag mark several tens of kilometers long has been found following the anchor, the general director of the investigation, Chief Inspector of Criminal Investigations Risto Lohi, said in a statement. The anchor was found on the route taken by the Eagle S, near Porkkalanniemi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fixing Estlink 2 is likely to take several months. On Monday, Finnish officials announced that two of the four telecom cables that had been cut were repaired. Investigators suspect an oil tanker named Eagle S of the sabotage, accusing the vessel of transporting Russian oil products that are embargoed over Russia's invasion of Ukraine.https://t.co/AyQmKP2QiC The Moscow Times (@MoscowTimes) January 6, 2025 The status of additional NATO naval presence in the Baltics to protect the regions undersea infrastructure should come into clearer focus next week. I would suspect NATO and national responses to such destabilizing actions will be discussed during next weeks Allied Chiefs of Defence Meeting with Partners in Brussels, SHAPE spokesman Army Col. Martin L. ODonnell told The War Zone on Tuesday. After all, the first session will see Gen. [Christopher G.] Cavoli [Supreme Allied Commander Europe] brief the Chiefs of Defense on NATOs readiness to deter and defend the Euro-Atlantic area and to safeguard the regions one billion inhabitants. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) With Jan. 9 being declared National Day of Mourning by President Joe Biden to honor the late President Jimmy Carter Jr., Naval Station Norfolk has released some schedule changes. Here are some expected changes: The airfield and port will be be open to handle emergency needs. All gates will be open in the morning as scheduled. Following the morning rush, traffic will be monitored and will most likely utilize the 24/7 gates Gate 2 and 22. The gyms and galley will be open during normal operating hours. The Child Development Center and Fleet and Family Support Center will be closed. Naval Station Norfolks Brand Health and Dental Clinic will be closed. 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. Former U.S. Sen. and Nebraska Gov. Bob Kerrey (Robin Marchant/Getty Images for Jericho Project) LINCOLN First a bridge and now a Navy destroyer has been named after former Nebraska governor and U.S. Sen. Bob Kerrey. This week, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that the Navys newest Arleigh Burke-class Guided Missile Destroyer has been named the USS Robert Kerrey (DDG 146). Kerrey, a Navy SEAL during the Vietnam War who received the Medal of Honor, previously lent his name to a pedestrian bridge spanning the Missouri River between Omaha and Council Bluffs, Iowa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Navy press release, Kerrey said he was grateful for the honor. My sincere thanks to President Biden, Secretary of the Navy Del Toro, and the United States Navy that gave me the opportunity to serve my country for three of the best years of my life, Kerrey said. Del Toro said that the naming recognized his actions in Vietnam and his continued service to this country well beyond his Naval service. Kerrey, a native of Lincoln, received the Medal of Honor in 1970 the first Navy SEAL to be so honored for actions during a mission in March of 1969, when he led a SEAL team seeking to capture Viet Cong political leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After scaling a 350-foot cliff, Kerrey was severely injured when a grenade exploded at his feet. Despite his injuries which ultimately led to losing his lower leg he continued to command his unit in securing an enemy camp and locating an extraction site for helicopter evacuation. Kerrey, a Democrat, served as governor of Nebraska from 1983 to 1987 and later as U.S. Senator from 1989 to 2001. He also served on the commission that investigated the 9/11 attacks. A political comeback failed in 2012 when he was defeated for the U.S. Senate seat he formerly held by then State Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb. She just won a third term. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX On 6 January authorities in Mexicos Guanajuato state announced that eight alleged members of a criminal organisation had been killed in a clash with security forces in Yuriria municipality. End of preview - This article contains approximately 398 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro announced that the services newest destroyer will bear the historic Intrepid name, according to the Navy. Del Toro named the newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer the future Intrepid on Friday while aboard the former carrier Intrepid, now part of its namesake museum in New York City. It is deeply meaningful to stand aboard USS Intrepid the fourth vessel to bear the name, and whose proud legacy continues to inspire and remind so many visitors of the courage, resilience and sacrifice that define the U.S. Navy and it is with profound respect that we also look to the future of our Navy from these decks, Del Toro said in release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fifth U.S. Navy vessel to be named Intrepid, the destroyer was named in honor of her past namesakes and the courageous service of all our Sailors globally from the South China Sea to the Red Sea, Del Toro said. The first Intrepid dates back to 1798 when it was built in France for Napoleons journey to Egypt. It was sold afterward to the Barbary state of Tripoli, named Mastico and later captured in 1803 by the U.S. Navy, at which point it was renamed Intrepid. The second Intrepid was an experimental torpedo arm that departed from Boston on Aug. 3, 1874, to assist with weapons practice and development. The vessel halted operations in 1892. Stealth destroyer to be home for 1st hypersonic weapon on a US warship Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The third Intrepid, a receiving and barracks ship, was launched in 1904 and assigned to the Yerba Buena Training Station and Mare Island Naval Yard in California, while the fourth and most recent Intrepid, an aircraft carrier, was commissioned from 1943 to 1974. As part of its history, the carrier assisted in the liberation of the Philippines in 1944 and helped invade and attack Japan during World War II, sinking two Japanese battleships and destroying 600 enemy aircraft. It also endured five kamikaze attacks, according to Historynet. The carrier also served in Vietnam, supported NATO in the 1950s and 1960s and retrieved NASA capsules. We know this namesake ship will serve our Navy and our nation proudly as the former USS Intrepid did and continues to do, and we couldnt be more thrilled that it begins its proverbial journey today at the Intrepid Museum, Intrepid Museum President Susan Marenoff-Zausner said. For all of its missions, the entire Museum team wishes the ships and its crew safety and success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Del Toro also announced that his wife Betty Del Toro will serve as the ships sponsor. A military spouse for more than two decades, she has experienced 17 military moves and is an advocate for military families and children. I am especially proud to serve as sponsor for a ship whose name embodies American courage and resilience, Betty Del Toro said. Having had the honor and opportunity to stand alongside my husband throughout his active duty Navy career and as the 78th Secretary of the Navy, I embrace this new role one which emphasizes something that is deeply important to me; supporting Navy Sailors and Marines, and their families. Updated with new information Parts of the Greater Cincinnati area got a record amount of snow from Sunday to Monday. The winter storm effectively shut down the city airports, roads, businesses and those of us who stayed home stayed warm with soup, heated blankets and heaters set to high. Not everyone is as fortunate. And as it gets even colder this week, those who aren't will be at greater risk of harm. Advertisement Advertisement According to the most recent data from local nonprofit Strategies to End Homelessness, over 6,000 Cincinnatians in 2023 were experiencing homelessness, 1,000 of them being children. And Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group National Coalition for the Homeless estimates that an average of 700 unhoused Americans die from the cold every year. At the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky, all 68 beds were full Monday night. About 30 people were at the 24-hour warming center in Covington and 14 slept overnight at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Newport, which is part of a new partnership with the shelter. Welcome House is currently housing over 100 people in its shelters. That number includes 50 in hotel rooms in Boone County. Looking ahead this week, things are only getting worse for the people at risk. A person jogs in the snow near the Roebling Bridge during a winter storm in Cincinnati Sunday. Cincinnati is facing below freezing temperatures for the rest of the week, with lows expected to range between 3 degrees and 10 degrees. Advertisement Advertisement These temperatures leave unhoused Cincinnatians at risk for developing life-threatening conditions like frostbite and hypothermia, which results when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees and can lead to heart failure. Here's where and how you can help people stay safe: Grab extra paper goods, coffee, cereal out of the pantry Disposable coffee cups, utensils, bowls, plates and napkins are in short supply at warming stations and local emergency shelters. "A lot of daily-use items have more than doubled for us in terms of what the need is," Kim Webb, executive director at the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky, told The Enquirer. Food, she said, is also welcome, especially cereal, milk, coffee and other pantry staples. Advertisement Advertisement Other organizations, listed at the bottom of this story, have similar requests. Grab the hotel toiletries you saved Do you have those miniature bottles of shampoo, mouthwash or body wash? That's worth donating as long as the products are unused. Toiletries, laundry detergent, diapers and feminine hygiene products are also an ongoing need, service providers say. Want to go the extra mile? For a buck or two, you can grab a travel-size bottle of toiletries wherever you do your shopping and donate those. Clean out your closets Just about all service providers are accepting winter clothing donations. That includes gently used jackets, sweaters, hats, gloves, boots and pants. Advertisement Advertisement This is also a great time to donate sleeping bags, tarps, blankets and tents, according to a social media post from local volunteer Alyssa Boiman. Open your wallet If you have the means, you can help local organizations without leaving your home or having to do any household chores like sorting clothes. Just about every organization accepts monetary donations online. But beware of scams. For instance, there's an incorrect Venmo link making the rounds on social media for the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky. The best way to make sure your money goes to the right place is to go directly through an organization's website or social media page for the right information. Advertisement Advertisement We've also linked to the best resources we can in the list below. Final step: take donations here Once you decide how you want to help your neighbors, here are some places you can take your donations after the roads are cleared. (For those of you wondering, homemade goods like brownies or casseroles cannot be accepted due to health codes.) Know a helpful organization that should be added to this list? Let us know at jolenea@gannett.com. We'll update it throughout the week. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: With colder temperatures coming how to help homeless, others in need A bird flu outbreak has Californians paying steep prices for eggs, with consumers sometimes scrambling to locate a carton of eggs amid a disrupted supply chain that has left some store shelves empty. The average price of a dozen large eggs starkly increased in California in December to $8.97, up from $5.68 in late November, and has remained at that price into the start of the year, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report. Some stores including a Ralphs in El Segundo have posted signs explaining that the recent shortage of eggs is due to "the cost to source cage-free eggs," a result of California's Proposition 12, which went into effect in 2022 and requires that hens not be confined in cages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the latest and biggest inflection on the market is due to the avian flu. Several restaurants have already started raising their prices to reflect higher egg costs. Restaurant manager Lyndsey Stevens of Boss Hogg's Country Kitchen in Farmersville, Calif., told KFSN-TV in Fresno that the increased cost has forced the restaurant to search for the cheapest egg prices to avoid passing on the cost to customers. But on the Central Coast, San Luis Obispo restaurant Bon Temps Creole increased a $15 menu item with two eggs to $17, KSBY reported. Read more: Bird flu is spreading rapidly among California dairy cows. Will milk prices rise? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Persistent and significant outbreaks of the highly pathogenic avian influenza have decimated California's poultry flocks and as a result hurt the egg supply chain, according the USDA's most recent egg report. Avian influenza viruses spread through direct, bird-to-bird contact. They can also spread through contaminated surfaces or materials, such as manure, egg flats, crates, clothing and hands. Once the virus is detected, flocks are euthanized and it takes a few months to repopulate a farm's flock, Bill Mattos president of the California Poultry Federation told the Ventura County Star. The outbreak has been wreaking havoc for egg farmers since it started in February 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, the USDA reported nine confirmed cases of avian flu in large- and small-scale operations in Merced, Stanislaus, Riverside and San Joaquin counties. The increased demand for eggs for meals and baked goods during the holiday season made the loss more painful to consumers at the supermarket checkout stands. Read more: How did H5N1 bird flu get introduced to California's dairy industry? The disease has had the biggest impact on large egg farm flocks from October to January, with the hardest hit coming in December, according to the USDA. In the last 30 days, the outbreak has affected 10.16 million birds across the U.S., the USDA said. But the number of infected birds is a fraction of the more than 378.5 million egg-laying chickens in the United States, according to data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, California has been the most affected state and it continues to be a rocky start to the year for farmers as the USDA reported one new case of avian flu in Stanislaus County affecting 75,200 birds. The detection of avian flu is higher in the fall and spring because wild birds spread the virus to laying hens as they migrate to their seasonal homes, expert say. That means that consumers can expect the price and availability of eggs to continue to be volatile, the American Farm Bureau Federation said. 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. Four years after a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol, the nearly 1,600 Americans charged for their role in the attack may see a change in their fates. Upon taking office for his second term, President-elect Donald Trump has promised to pardon rioters charged for the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol including several from Wisconsin. Heres what Trump has said about pardoning Jan. 6 rioters and where the defendants from Wisconsin are today. How many people were convicted for the Jan. 6 attack, including from Wisconsin? At least 1,572 defendants have been charged in the Jan. 6 attack, with some calling the case Americas largest-ever criminal investigation, Reuters reported. The defendants include 11 people from Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of December 2024, more than 1,200 defendants have been convicted or pleaded guilty to charges, and 645 have been sentenced to prison, according to the Justice Department. Will President-elect Trump pardon Jan. 6 rioters? Trump intends to pardon people charged in the Jan. 6 attack as soon as the first day of his second term, he said in an interview with NBCs Meet the Press last month. Im going to look at everything. Were going to look at individual cases," Trump said. On the campaign trail last year, he also repeatedly called the Jan. 6 defendants political prisoners and hostages. His first 2024 campaign rally featured a song by the J6 Prison Choir, a group of men imprisoned for being part of the attack on the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's the latest on the 11 Wisconsin defendants: Kevin Loftus, Eau Claire Kevin Daniel Loftus of Eau Claire was arrested Tuesday by the FBI. He was being sought in connection with illegally entering the U.S. Capitol during the riot on Jan. 6. Kevin Loftus, of Eau Claire, was charged with the following: Illegally entering either house of Congress, or adjacent areas Violent entry and disorderly conduct on the grounds of the Capitol. Case status: In October 2021, Loftus pleaded guilty to parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building. He was later sentenced to three years probation, 60 hours of community service, and ordered to pay $500 restitution. RELATED: Wisconsin man avoids jail time for role in Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at U.S. Capitol On Oct. 31, 2024, Loftus was arrested in Iowa for violating his probation by traveling without notifying his probation officer. Loftus, who was living in north Texas, attempted to board a flight to Istanbul, Turkey in late October with the eventual goal of joining the Russian military, according to court records. He was denied boarding when his name flagged a security alert at the airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then drove north, leaving Texas and violating his probation. Though he was arrested in Iowa, Loftus told officials he had intended to visit his son in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. On Dec. 16, his probation was revoked, and he was sentenced to six months in jail. David Mish, West Allis David Mish of West Allis appears in a still of a video taken by another man who entered the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Mish is seen as the mob of rioters is being pushed out of the building after police fatally shot a woman. David Mish, of West Allis, was charged with the following Unlawful entry on restricted grounds Violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Case status: Mish pleaded guilty to parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building, and the other charges were dismissed. He was sentenced in November 2021 to 30 days in jail and ordered to pay $500 restitution. According to court records, Mish contacted the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department the day after the attack and said he had information about the death of Ashli Babbitt, an insurrectionist who was shot by an officer as she tried to climb through a broken window into the Speaker's Lobby. Michael Fitzgerald, Janesville Federal prosecutors say this man is Michael Fitzgerald of Janesville, seen inside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Michael Fitzgerald, of Janesville, was charged with the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Obstructing law enforcement during civil disorder Knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority Violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Case status: Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty to all charges. After delays in his hearing due to health reasons, the court dismissed the obstruction charge in November 2024. In a June 2023 interview with the Janesville Gazette, Fitzgerald said he had been diagnosed with stage four colon and liver cancer. During the attack, Fitzgerald was in the front of a crowd that pushed into the south entrance to the U.S. Senate around 2:47 p.m. Abram Markofski and Brandon Nelson, La Crosse Brandon Nelson, left, and Abram Markofski, right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abram Markofski and Brandon Nelson, both of La Crosse, were charged with the following: Entering a restricted building Disruptive conduct in a restricted building Parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building Case status: Both Nelson and Markofski pleaded guilty to parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building. They were sentenced to serve two years probation and ordered to pay $500 restitution. Ahead of the Jan. 6 attack, Markofski and Nelson drove together to Washington, D.C. from Wisconsin, and surveillance cameras showed they spent about 40 minutes inside the Capitol. Markofski was also a member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, having enlisted in 2019 and holding the rank of private first class at the time. Riley Kasper, Saxon Riley D. Kasper outside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 Riley Kasper, of Saxon, was charged with the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Civil disorder Assaulting, resisting or impeding officers while armed with a dangerous weapon Engaging in violence in a restricted building or grounds with a dangerous weapon Entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a dangerous weapon Committing acts of physical violence on Capitol grounds. Case status: Kasper pleaded guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, and the other charges were dismissed. He was sentenced on Feb. 6, 2024 to 37 months in prison and two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. Videos of the Jan. 6 attack show Kasper spraying officers with bear repellent. Afterwards, Kasper wrote on Facebook, I pepper sprayed 3 cops so bad they got undressed and went home, according to the FBI. Paul Edward Kovacik, Milwaukee Paul Kovacik seen on an image from bodycam video taken by a Mequon police officer during an interaction with Kovacik in November. He's wearing the same sweatshirt he wore on Jan. 6, 2021. Milwaukee resident Paul Edward Kovacik was charged in May 2022 with entering and remaining in a restricted building. He was also charged with the following: Disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds Disorderly conduct in a Capitol Building Parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building Case Status: Kocacik pleaded guilty to parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building and was initially sentenced in June of 2023. However, he fled the country and evaded arrest, until he was arrested again in St. Paul, Minn. in June of 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He pleaded guilty to failure to appear and was sentenced on Dec. 10, 2024 to 120 days of incarceration with credit for time served, one year of supervised release and special assessment of $25. Conlin Weyer, Plover Conlin Weyer, of Plover, was charged with entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds in May 2022. He was also charged with the following: Disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds Disorderly conduct in a Capitol Building or grounds Parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building Case Status: Weyer pleaded guilty to entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds. He was sentenced Oct. 5, 2023 to 18 months of probation, 30 days location monitoring, $25 special assessment, $500 restitution and $500 fine. Joshua Munn, Melrose Joshua Munn, of Melrose, was charged with the following in 2021: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without authority Disorderly conduct in a Capitol building Parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building Case Status: Munn pleaded guilty to parading, demonstrating, or picketing a capitol building, and the other charges were dismissed. On Oct. 12, 2022, he was sentenced to 36 months probation, $10 special assessment, $500 restitution and 60 hours of community service. Joseph Cattani, Colgate Video shows Joseph Cattani grab the face mask of an officer inside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Joseph Cattani, of Washington County, was charged with civil disorder and assaulting, resisting or impeding certain officers. He was also charged with the following: Civil disorder Entering and remaining in a restricted building Disorderly conduct in a Capitol building Parading, picketing and demonstrating in a Capitol building Case Status: Cattani pleaded not guilty to all charges. An open-source video showed Cattani pulling an officers face shield up and down as the officers head twists and turns. He then pushed his way into the Capitol Building. He has a jury trial scheduled for July 7, according to court records. Charles Walters, Sparta Charles Walters, of Sparta, was charged in a criminal complaint filed in Washington, D.C. with one felony offense of destruction of government property in 2023. He was also charged with the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds Disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds Disorderly conduct in the Capitol grounds or buildings Parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building Case Status: Walters pleaded guilty to entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds and pleaded not guilty to the remaining charges. During a bench trial on Sept. 17, 2024, he was found not guilty of the felony offense of destruction of government property, but found guilty of the misdemeanor offense. He is scheduled for sentencing on Jan. 7. According to court records, Walters kicked through fencing surrounding the Capitol, yelled at and confronted police inside the Capitol throughout the afternoon and early evening of Jan. 6, and only left the grounds at dusk when forced to by police. RELATED: Three years after the storming of the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 6 still reverberates in Wisconsin USA TODAY contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Jan. 6 participants: Will Trump pardon Jan. 6 rioters? Multiple Israeli settler attacks against Palestinians have been reported in parts of the occupied West Bank after gunmen killed three Israelis and injured eight others earlier on Monday in the latest explosion of violence there. While tensions have been rising in the West Bank for years, the October 7 attacks by Hamas and the subsequent Israeli assault on Gaza has ushered in a volatile new chapter in the occupied territory. Attacks on Palestinian communities by Israeli settlers, emboldened by their countrys offensive in Gaza and support from Israels right-wing government, have increased while there have also been attacks against the settlers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier on Monday, Israeli vehicles were targeted on Route 55 in Al-Funduq, a Palestinian village in the West Bank, according to Israeli authorities. The road, which snakes through the northern West Bank, passes through the Jewish settlement of Kedumim. Two women in one car were shot dead and a man in a second car 160 yards away died of gunshot wounds, Israels Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency service said. Israeli authorities said the women were residents of the Jewish settlement of Kedumim in the northern West Bank, and the man lived in northern Israel and worked as a police investigator in the West Bank. A further eight people were injured in the attack, including the bus driver, who was shot in his limbs and abdomen, according to the MDA. The deadly shooting sent tensions soaring and within hours the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported multiple attacks on Palestinians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the northern West Bank, Israeli settlers set fire to a vehicle in the town of Hajja, and carried out attacks in Farata and Amatin villages, according to WAFA, where Israeli settlers reportedly threw stones at peoples homes and destroyed crops. Citing locals, WAFA reported that Israeli forces fired at men of the village of Amatin as they tried to confront the violence by settlers. The Israeli military told CNN it was unaware of the event. On the incident in Hajja, the Israeli military said they received several reports on Monday evening of Israeli civilians who entered the village and had caused damage to property and Israeli came to the scene. WAFA also reported an increase of Israeli military reinforcements in the area, with additional checkpoints, road closure and incursions into towns. CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment on the claim. Two more incidents were reported southeast of Ramallah where Israeli settlers set fire to an agricultural room in the town of Turmus Ayya on Monday evening, according to security sources who told WAFA. Meanwhile Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian vehicles with stones near Bethlehem, according to WAFA. Settle accounts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation following the attack by gunmen earlier in the day. In a statement on X, he pledged to find the abhorrent murderers and settle accounts with them and with all those who aided them. No one will get away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu is expected to hold a cabinet meeting on Tuesday and discuss the West Bank. While there has been no claim of responsibility yet for the shooting, it has been praised by the Palestinian militant group Hamas and been labelled a terrorist attack by Israel. Speaking at the scene, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief Herzi Halevi said the clock is ticking for the attackers, and vowed to track down those responsible, make the route safer, and intensify Israels intense and wide-ranging operations against terrorism in the occupied West Bank. Israeli authorities later identified the two women as Aliza Reiss and Rachel Cohen two civilian residents of the Jewish settlement of Kedumim, both in their 70s and the man as Yaakov Winkelstein, a police investigator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rephaela Segal, assistant mayor of Kedumim, described the women as young in nature and said Cohen had been volunteering as a special education teacher in her retirement. Reiss was a counselor at a high school in a nearby settlement, Karnei Shomron, and both were traveling to Karnei Shomron at the time of the attack, Segal said. This isnt the first time in recent months that violence has broken out in this part of the West Bank. In August 2024, a group of 30 armed Israeli settlers attacked Jit, a Palestinian town just 10 minutes from Kedumim. They fired bullets, tear gas and set homes and cars on fire, according to residents who witnessed the attack. Volatile new chapter Recent international focus on the region has been largely on Israels military operations in Gaza. But another major escalation of violence has been playing out around 60 miles away in the Israeli-occupied West Bank where 3.3 million Palestinians are living under Israeli military occupation surrounded by hundreds of thousands of Israeli settlers. Such Israeli settlements are considered illegal under international law and by much of the international community. According to the UN, more than 500 Palestinian civilians were killed in the West Bank during 2024, with children bearing much of the violence. The UN said in December that 2024 had been a deadlier year for Palestinian children in the West Bank than the prior seven years combined. Since the October 7 attacks in 2023, at least 169 children have been killed by Israeli forces and Jewish settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, according to the UN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, 2024 was the third-deadliest year for Israelis in the West Bank since data collection began in 2008, according to the UN, which recorded the deaths of 34 Israelis 15 soldiers and 19 civilians. Of those civilians, seven were settlers. In August, the US announced sanctions against an Israeli organization, Hashomer Yosh, allegedly responsible for supporting settler violence in the West Bank against Palestinians, according to a State Department spokesperson. Attacks have also come as the Israeli government ramped up approvals of Israeli settler housing. In July, Israels government approved a large land seizure in the occupied West Bank the biggest since the 1993 Oslo Accords set out a path for peace between Israel and the Palestinians, according to the Israeli rights group Peace Now. The area was converted to state land, according to a document from the body, but the official notice wasnt posted until days after, Peace Now said. On Wednesday, the Israeli government is due to hold a construction planning meeting to discuss Israeli settlements housing approvals, the sixth consecutive week of Settlement Contruction Planning Meetings, according to Peace Now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shift to weekly planning meetings represents both a normalization and intensification of settlement construction, Peace Now said, adding that if the coming plans are approved, the six-week total will reach 2,377 housing units. At this rate, 2025 could set new records, with projections exceeding 1,500 units per month, Peace Now said, adding that its as a result of policy changes that have been introduced by Netanyahu and the current government. CNNs Eugenia Yosef contributed to this report. A pervious version of this article stated that the three Israelis killed in the West Bank on Monday were settlers. In fact, two of the three were settlers, while the third worked in the West Bank but lived in northern Israel, according to Israeli authorities. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Monday proposed a $322 billion budget that he said would be balanced and without deficits marking a significant turnaround after two years of shortfalls. Newsom delivered a top-line version of the 2025-2026 budget proposal at a Monday press conference, noting that more details will be released by his administration later this week. While the governors January proposal is due to lawmakers on Friday, the document typically undergoes many revisions before it must be finalized in June. We are America, but in the future tense, the future happens here first, Newsom said. We are Americas coming attraction. California is the future, and we certainly are the future of the American economy, because were the tentpole of the American economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governors proposal included a $228.9 billion general fund and would rely on $17 billion in reserves. He also noted that state tax revenues are up $16.5 billion dollars, while acknowledging that this is a snapshot subject to change. We endeavored to make this years budget a nonevent, Newsom said. Last year, we endeavored to solve the problems this year and did something we havent done in the past. The 2024-2025 budget included total expenditures of $297.9 billion and a deficit of $46.8 billion, requiring cuts to a variety of programs, including climate and health care initiatives. Newsom described this years leveling as an expected outcome after two extreme years of volatility, the likes of which we havent seen in quite some time in California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This budget reflects a foundational focus, Newsom said. While its aspirational in many respects, its also just driving accountability. Its about more transparency, its about reform and its about being prepared for uncertainties into the future. Asked if he could guarantee that this budget wouldnt raise taxes, Newsom responded, As long as Im around, Im going to fight hard against that. He did, however, recognize the proverbial elephant in the room, referring to the incoming Trump administration and the possibility of financial unknowns ahead. Slamming President-elect Trump and Elon Musks proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Newsom recognized that their plan to cut $2 trillion in government spending inherently comes with a level of uncertainty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our DOGE is spelled O-D-I: We created it years and years ago with the Legislature, an Office of Digital Innovation, Newsom said. Its been focused on a myriad of reforms over the course of many, many years, the governor added. We didnt wake up to this reality. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Federal regulators have opened a probe into roughly 2.6 million Tesla vehicles after a remote summoning feature reportedly led to crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the probe on Tuesday, stating it received one complaint alleging a crash due to the Actually Smart Summon feature and is investigating reports of three additional crashes. The Actually Smart Summon feature launched in September and enables drivers to remotely summon or move their vehicles to another location via a button on a mobile phone app. Tesla previously had a feature, called Smart Summon, that allowed drivers to move their cars into or out of a parking spot. According to the notice, the Office of Defects Investigation has received 12 complaints related to the Smart Summon feature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four crashes, according to the notice about the investigation, relate to the Tesla vehicles failing to detect posts or parked vehicles, resulting in crashes when the Actually Smart Summon feature is on. The notice read that the office knows of several crash allegations though Tesla has not reported any crashes through the Standing General Order requiring reporting of crashes on publicly accessible roads involving Smart Summon and Actually Smart Summon in which drivers had little to no reaction time to avoid a crash with the available line of site or releasing the button to stop the vehicles movement. NHTSA is opening a preliminary evaluation into the Actually Smart Summon feature and will then decide whether to update the probe to an engineering analysis before seeking to require a recall. NHTSA will look into the vehicles operations and field performance, top speed attained with the Actually Smart Summon feature engaged and line of site requirements as well as stopping distance requirements. This probe covers 2016-2025 Model S and X vehicles, 2017-2025 Model 3 and 2020-2025 Model Y with the Full Self-Driving driver assistance system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tesla did not respond to requests for comment. Michael Brooks, executive director at the Center for Auto Safety, told the American-Statesman that Teslas autonomous driving system is a vision-only system, meaning it is camera-based and doesnt use other sensors like other automakers are using to sense hazards. Almost invariably, you see cameras unable to cope with nighttime conditions in really lit areas and also, there's some problems in weather. Being able to cope with nighttime problems is critical to safe driving, Brooks said. The camera-only approach without some other sensor to check what inputs the camera is getting to make sure that at nighttime or in bad weather that the cameras are getting it right, there needs to be some sort of redundancy there. Brooks said all the current autonomous driving features on Tesla vehicles summoning, autopilot and more require human intervention and active participation, something he is concerned many drivers are not doing when using these features. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People need to be aware that they are fully responsible for anything that occurs while theyre using (the summon feature), Brooks said. If youre holding a button down on your phone to make your vehicle move and that vehicle then runs over a child in a grocery store parking lot, you are ultimately going to be held responsible. Thats not an autonomous vehicle. Tesla is not going to step in and save you from liability. This is not the first time NHTSA has opened investigations into Tesla vehicles. Tesla recalled more than two million U.S. vehicles in December 2023 to install safeguards for its Autopilot advanced driver-assistance system. NHTSA opened a probe in April to see if the recall was adequate to address the concerns that drivers are not paying attention. In October, NHTSA opened an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving software following four reported crashes. One of these incidents involved a pedestrian who was struck and killed by a 2021 Tesla Model Y in Rimrock, Arizona, in November 2023. The investigation is still ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A week prior to that probe announcement, Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled Teslas two-seater, two-door "Cybercab" robotaxi with no steering wheel or pedals, using solely cameras and artificial intelligence to navigate roads. Musk at the time said he hoped to get approval for the vehicles in Texas, possibly in California, this year with hopes to reach volume production for the robotaxis in 2026. NHTSA would need to approve the vehicles for use on publicly accessible roads. More: Elon Musk unveils Tesla's new Cybercab robotaxi. See expected rollout, how much it'll cost Frankly, the Summon, the autopilot, full self-driving, all of those bells and whistles that Tesla has sold as somewhat all promise all of them have to be supervised by humans which is a completely different animal than a true Robotaxi where there's no human supervision whatsoever, Brooks said. Brooks said the Center for Auto Safety does not anticipate Musk being able to launch his robotaxi this year, saying other self-driving robotaxi makers like Waymo are way ahead of Teslas technology and have additional sensors to support the vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk has complained on various occasions that U.S. regulations impede the development of self-driving and fully autonomous vehicles. Musk played an active role in President-elect Donald Trumps reelection campaign, donating an estimated $250 million to his campaign. Since then, the tech billionaire and sometime-Austin resident has frequently stayed at Trumps Mar-a-Lago, met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, sat-in on meetings with foreign heads of state and vetted cabinet nominees. More: Trump appoints Texas billionaire Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy to lead new 'DOGE' commission Trump announced following his election that he would create a new Department of Government Efficiency, placing Musk at the helm alongside Vivek Ramaswamy to oversee government spending and regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Tesla sales declined 1.1%, the first dip in over a decade for the automaker headquartered in Austin. More: Tesla just posted its worst numbers in over a decade; here's why investors aren't worried Brooks said NHTSA investigations decrease during some Republican administrations, and he expects the same under Trump. He said theres an ongoing question whether or not federal regulators will continue pursuing the Tesla investigations with the same fervor as under the current Biden Administration. Once the administration change happens later this month, is NHTSA going to really pursue these investigations to an appropriate conclusion or whether there's going to be political influence to prevent the investigations from digging too much into that, Brooks said. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: New Tesla probe looks at Actually Smart Summon feature As President-elect Donald Trump extolled the virtues of natural gas during a post-certification speech Tuesday, details emerged about a proposed $309 million Nicor Gas rate increase that seeks to raise delivery charges for Chicago-area customers by more than 20% next year. Filed Friday with the Illinois Commerce Commission, it is the fifth rate hike requested by Nicor since 2018. Regulators have 11 months to review the new proposal, which, if approved, would be the largest gas rate increase in Illinois history. In a statement Tuesday, Nicor said the proposed record rate increase is needed to replace aging infrastructure and update technology to serve its 2.3 million customers in suburban Chicago and across northern Illinois. Many Americans are facing challenging times, and no one wants to see rising energy bills, Jennifer Golz, a spokesperson for Naperville-based Nicor, said in the statement. We want our customers to understand their bills and why the company is requesting to adjust rates that would allow Nicor Gas to meet those energy demands, especially during extreme weather. Residential gas bills include both supply and distribution charges. Nicors proposed rate increase would raise the cost of delivering the gas, which accounts for about half the bill. For typical Chicago-area residential customers, the proposed increase would add about $7.50 per month to delivery charges, raising the total bill by just over 9%, Golz said. Nicor, which is owned by Atlanta-based Southern Co., is the largest gas utility in Illinois. The rate hike request includes a 10.35% return on equity for shareholders of Southern Co. In a statement Tuesday, consumer advocates at the Citizens Utility Board vowed to challenge Nicors proposed record rate increase. Heat is a human necessity, not a profit tool, CUB Executive Director Sarah Moskowitz said in the statement. But Nicors push for a ridiculous 10.35% return on equity exposes this rate-hike request for what it is: A money-grab meant to benefit shareholders to the detriment of customers who just want to keep their homes warm in an Illinois winter. Nicor Gas customers have seen their delivery rates increase by $724 million since 2018, including most recently, a $223 million dollar hike granted by the ICC in 2023. The ICC has 11 months to review rate cases, meaning the earliest Nicor could implement the proposed $309 million increase would likely be January 2026. Nicor said the proposed rate increase would be applied in part to infrastructure projects, such as the replacement of steel pipelines dating back to 1959. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)Two Nigerian nationals were found guilty of defrauding $560,000 from an Albuquerque resident, the Department of Justice announced on Monday. Story continues below According to court documents and evidence presented at the four-day trial, Olutayo Sunday Ogunlaja, 39, and Abel Adeyi Daramola, 37, used a fake profile on the dating website eHarmony.com to start a romantic relationship with the victim. The duo then requested money from the victim, claiming the money would be used to complete a construction project in Malaysia and allow them to return safely to the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOJ said the victim sent approximately $560,000 to various accounts in the United States, Canada, and Malaysia between January 2016 and April 2017. Ogunlaja and Daramola will remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, they each face up to 20 years in prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. On 6 January Honduran private sector lobby Consejo Hondureno de la Empresa Privada (Cohep) called on the leftist Partido Libertad y Refundacion (Libre) government led by Presidentto come up with a clear plan in the face of the threat by US President-electto send migrants back to Honduras. End of preview - This article contains approximately 405 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options NILES, Ohio (WKBN) The Sparkle Market in Niles is closing. Read next: Girl Scouts discontinuing 2 cookie varieties after 2025 season A representative of owner Vince Furrie said that Furrie felt its just not working out to have a full grocery store in that neighborhood. Employees will be offered the opportunity to go to other stores. A closing date was not released, however, WKBN 27 First News received a call saying that employees were informed of the closing Tuesday and that the store would be closing in about a week. Store officials have not confirmed that information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, WKBN 27 First News spoke with Furrie about his resistance to installing self-checkout lanes. At that time, he said he wanted to continue to hire cashiers. Furrie owns seven of the 18 Youngstown-area Sparkle Markets. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOKYO (AP) Nippon Steel was standing firm on its proposed $15 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel, Chief Executive Eiji Hashimoto said Tuesday after President Joe Bidens blocked the top Japanese steelmakers move. There is no reason or need to give up, he told reporters at company headquarters in Tokyo. We are convinced its clearly beneficial for both nations. While acknowledging the effort may take time, he stressed the companies latest legal action in the U.S. was a key development. Nippon Steel Corp. and U.S. Steel filed federal lawsuits Monday challenging the Biden administrations decision as ignoring the rule of law. In separate lawsuits in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the steelmakers challenged the Biden administrations move, noting the acquisition will enhance, not threaten, United States national security. In blocking the transaction Friday, Biden said U.S. companies producing steel need to keep leading the fight on behalf of Americas national interests. Proponents of the takeover, which surfaced more than a year ago, say Japan is a U.S. ally, as well as a top investor in American companies. They also argue Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel coming together makes for a viable force in an industry now dominated by the Chinese, creating jobs and economic impact of up to $1 billion. Hashimoto reiterated that Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel were united as one in wanting the deal. They both feel Bidens decision is unlawful and invalid, and hope to win understanding for their effort, he told reporters. The U.S. market remains a key part of Nippon Steels global strategy, said Hashimoto. U.S. Steel Corp. has accused the Biden administration of interference. We will vigorously defend our rights to complete this transaction and secure the future of U.S. Steel, the Pittsburgh-based manufacturer said in a recent statement. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also supports the deal, denying any security concerns. Biden leaves the White House on Jan. 20, but incoming President Donald Trump also opposes the acquisition. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States reviewing the deal earlier didnt reach a consensus on possible national security risks. Fitch Groups CreditSights categorized the opposition to the deal as primarily political, while noting U.S. Steel can remain a standalone company, benefiting from a recent rise in steel prices. In short, U.S. Steel does not necessarily need to be sold, it said in an analysis Monday. JERSEY CITY, N.J. (PIX11) After a federal judge denied a last-ditch emergency appeal by the State of New Jersey on Saturday, congestion pricing is underway. A lawsuit spearheaded by the Murphy administration hopes to end the tolling plan. Press secretary Natalie Hamilton told PIX11 News the administration was disappointed the courts allowed congestion pricing to take effect, despite agreeing that its approval violated the law and arbitrarily shortchanged New Jersey residents. The statement went on to say, We will continue fighting against this unfair and unpopular scheme. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now there are still some legal issues pending in three different courts, but as those play out, New Jersey lawmakers say their fight isnt over. I think we can point out that this could be very damaging to the relationship between New Jersey and New York, said Republican Assemblyman Michael Inganamort (R-24th District), who sits on the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee. When New York takes a predatory posture towards New Jersey, I think that is not only bad in the short term but potentially really bad in the long term. Democratic Assemblywoman Shama Haider said she will fight for her constituents in North Jersey. Our district aligns along the George Washington Bridge, said Haider (D-37th District), and this is going to bear the brunt of all the traffic, all the pollution, all the environmental impacts that go into it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican state Sen. Joe Pennacchio thinks New Jersey should fight back by way of economic development. We have the Meadowlands, which is absolutely terrific venue, where we could put a convention center, said Pennacchio (R-26th District). We would compete with New Yorks outdated convention center, the Javits Center, and that would put an economic strain on New York and honestly, may bring them back to the bargaining table. President-elect Donald Trump and many congressional Republicans oppose congestion pricing, giving a sense the incoming administration will try to find a legal way to fight it. In the meantime, the MTA has until Jan. 17 to provide environmental information to a federal judge in Newark. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 New Jersey man is accused of fatally stabbing a woman he appeared to have just proposed to in a nightclub. On Dec. 29, Jose Melo, 52, posted an undated video of him seemingly dropping to one knee and presenting Naket Jadix Trinidad Maldonado with a ring in an Elizabeth, N.J. nightclub. She reacted with excitement. I love you baby Flaka Naky Bella, he captioned that video, which was corroborated by outlets including Patch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The following morning, cops responding to a report of a stabbing found the 31-year-old victims body in a New Jersey home. Union County prosecutors charged Melo last week in connection with her death and additional weapons charges. A woman identifying herself as the victims aunt said Maldonado was a mother of two whose family lives in Florida. Naky was senselessly taken from us on December 30 in an act of evil, Yolanda De wrote on a fundraising page. This horrible act by someone she trusted left her two children without either parent and with very little options for their future. That page said the victims father wants Maldonado to be memorialized in Florida and buried in Puerto Rico. A service for her in New Jersey is also being planned. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) No charges will be filed after a pedestrian was hit and killed by a Guilford County Sheriffs Office vehicle in November, according to a Greensboro Police Department news release. At around 5:07 p.m. on Nov. 20, Greensboro police responded to a crash involving a pedestrian on U.S. 29 North near McKnight Mill Road. James Owens, 58, of Greensboro, allegedly stepped out in front of a 2011 Ford Edge that was registered to the GCSO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owens died at the scene. On Monday, Greensboro police said that an investigation has been completed and no charges are warranted. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON, D.C. A Missouri man on death row is refusing his clemency from President Biden. Shannon Agofsky says he doesnt want President Biden to change his death sentence to life in prison without parole. We told you in December when President Biden commuted his sentence along with 36 other federal death row inmates. Shannon Agofsky and his brother Joe were convicted of the 1989 kidnapping and murder of Dan Short, who was the president of the State Bank of Noel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say the brothers kidnapped Short and forced him to empty the bank safe, then drowned him in Grand Lake. Shorts body was found tied up and duct-taped to a chair that was weighed down by cinder blocks. Then, in 2001, Shannon was convicted for stomping a fellow inmate to death in a Texas prison. He received the death penalty for that crime. His attorney says Agofsky doesnt want his sentence commuted to life in prison because hes appealing the death sentence. And Agofsky says he is also working to prove his innocence in Dan Shorts murder. So, he is refusing to sign his clemency papers. So far, the Department of Justice hasnt commented on how this will impact his case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shannons brother, Joe, died in prison in 2013. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) One of the four pillars of protection that Kristi Noem laid out during her first campaign for governor seven years ago was a promise to veto any tax increases. That pledge however evidently doesnt apply to her current proposals asking South Dakota lawmakers to increase licensing fees on a wide variety of professional and trade occupations, as well as inspection fees. Demolition on Minnesota Ave. reveals Sioux Falls history Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of them were mentioned in her speech to the Legislature outlining her budget recommendations for the coming fiscal year that starts July 1. Nor does it seem to apply to her current proposal to repeal the state sales-tax collection credit that lets businesses withhold roughly $7 million annually as compensation for remitting the taxes. She did speak about taking away the allowance in her December 3 speech, suggesting that its no longer relevant. State law caps the credit at $840 per year. Over a decade ago, we encouraged businesses to electronically file sales taxes by providing a credit incentive. This collections process is now normal business practice, and this incentive is no longer necessary, Noem told lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of this is coming to light as Noem, a Republican, prepares to resign from the governors office later this year, possibly before the legislative session ends on March 31, and long before the January 2027 end of her second term, so that she can become U.S. homeland security secretary in President-elect Trumps new administration. The 2025 legislative opens January 14 for its 38-day run. Heres a summary of ten sets of requested fee and surcharge increases so far from the Noem administration that were among the 41 Senate bills and 16 House bills posted as of 4:30 p.m. CT Monday; click on a bill number in blue for details of each proposal. SB3, sought by the state Department of Public Safety, calls for increasing fees for standard driver licenses and commercial driver licenses, as well as the commercial-license testing fee, reinstatement fees and license-inquiry fees. The bill was assigned to the Senate Transportation Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet set. Potential financial effects of the potential increases werent yet publicly available. SB24, sought by the state Plumbing Commission, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising the maximum amount of plumbing permit fees charged when plumbing is installed at a single-family, multi-family or public site, as well as raising the maximum fee for additional inspections. The bill was assigned to the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet publicly set. State budget documents show that inspection-certificates revenue which totaled $19,910 in fiscal 2023 and $22,125 in fiscal 2024 would rise to an estimated $96,300 in fiscal 2026, while inspection-fees revenue that totaled $358,125 in FY23 and $404,185 in FY24 would reach an estimated $674,460 in FY26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SB27, sought by the state Cosmetology Commission, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising the maximum amounts for licensing salons, booths, cosmetologists, nail technicians, estheticians, schools and students. The bill was assigned to the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet set. State budget documents show that licensing fees revenue which totaled $309,899 in fiscal 2023 and $294,131 in fiscal 2024 would rise to an estimated $551,335 in fiscal 2026. SB28, sought by the state Barber Examiners Board, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising the maximum amounts for certifying barbers, licensing barbershops and inspecting barbershops and barber schools. The bill was assigned to the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet publicly set. State budget documents show that license-fees revenue which totaled $24,635 in fiscal 2023 and $31,877 in fiscal 2024 would rise to an estimated $93,043 in fiscal 2026. SB31, sought by the state Electrical Commission, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising the maximum amounts for installation inspection fees. The bill was assigned to the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet publicly set. State budget documents show that license fees brought in $226,499 in fiscal 2023 and $376,550 in 2024 and would rise to an estimated $626,480 in 2026, while revenue from inspection fees that totaled $1,437,410 in FY23 and $1,229,099 in FY24 would rise to an estimated $2,175,000 in FY26. SB32, sought by the state Accountancy Board, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising certification fees. The bill was assigned to the Senate Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet publicly set. State budget documents show that renewal-fee revenue which totaled $211,675 in fiscal 2023 and $236,180 in fiscal 2024 would rise to an estimated $375,320 in fiscal 2026, while exam-fee revenue would go from $8,130 in FY23 and $8,430 in FY24 to an estimated $18,270 in FY26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SB37, sought by the state Department of Public Safety, calls for making permanent a temporary increase in the 911 surcharge that most telephone customers pay. The Legislature last year increased the surcharge to $2 per month per line from $1.25; the increase was supposed to expire July 1, 2026. The 2024 official estimate, based on similar numbers of lines, was that increasing the surcharge to $2 would generate $19,952,342, or $7,481,503 more than was raised in 2023. The 2025 bill was assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet publicly set. HB1013, sought by the state Department of Public Safety, calls for raising fees for inspecting weight scales, for testing, weighing and measuring devices used in the wholesale or retail sale of liquefied petroleum gas, and for inspecting and testing gasoline and diesel stationary fuel-pump meters and agricultural chemical or liquid fertilizer meters. The bill was assigned to the House Commerce and Energy Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet set. Potential financial effects of the proposed increases werent yet publicly available. HB1015, sought by the state Funeral Service Board, whose members are governor appointed, calls for raising the licensing fees for funeral establishments, crematory establishments, and funeral directors. The bill was assigned to the House Health and Human Services Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet set. Potential financial effects of the proposed increases werent yet publicly available. HB1016, sought by the state Pharmacy Board, whose members are governor appointed, calls for increasing the licensing fee for wholesale distributors and creating a new fee for transferring a pharmacy license. The bill was assigned to the House Health and Human Services Committee for its first public hearing. A hearing date isnt yet set. Potential financial effects of the proposed increases werent yet publicly available. 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. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) The City of San Angelos City Council reached a deadlock during its Jan. 7 meeting after discussing potential nonprofit policy updates to the North Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone. Heres why the deadlock occurred. As part of its regular agenda for the meeting, the City Council took up an item calling for discussion and possible action regarding a North TIRZ Non-Profit policy update. The agenda item included a proposal for a new nonprofit policy for the Citys north TIRZ area. According to the meeting agenda, the new policy would dictate that nonprofit organizations are not eligible for TIRZ incentives in the South Zone, with the exception of government entities. The northern area, meanwhile, would have an annual $100,000 of the North TIRZ funding set aside for nonprofits beginning January 1 of each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement December 2024 San Angelo retail food establishment inspections The agenda stated that, under the proposed policy, nonprofits would be eligible for TIRZ incentives in the north zone by meeting the following criteria: One applicant up to $75,000 or multiple applicants up to the $100,000 No Match required, payment of funds will be standard reimbursement process TIRZ Board will make a finding the project can make a significant neighborhood impact Historic refurbishment Neighborhood enhancement Facade and building improvements to assist with occupancy Other Projects must include public improvements such as but not limited to public sidewalks, ADA ramps in Right of Way, transit shelters, and streetscaping TIRZ Board and/or City Council can waive this requirement if these features exist Annual Funding does not roll over year to year; any remainder goes back to incentives Approval will require a simple majority vote of TIRZ Board and City Council Planning & Development Services Director Aaron Vannoy gave a presentation to the City Council regarding the policy, concluding it by stating that City staff recommends approval of the annual set-aside of north TIRZ funding for nonprofits. He also said that the Citys TIRZ Board recommended a unanimous vote in favor of setting aside the funds. Mayor Brenda Gunter raised concerns regarding the proposed policy, however, citing the Texas Comptrollers Tax Code Chapter 311. The chapter, according to the Comptrollers website, governs tax increment financing and states that tax increment financing redirects property tax in a TIRZ area to pay for improvements in the zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gunter said the chapter specifies that TIRZ projects are meant to jumpstart development in order to generate new tax revenue. She also detailed two of the benefits of a TIRZ listed in Chapter 311: boosting development, which grows property values and long-term property tax collections, and lessening the cost of private development by providing reimbursement for qualified public improvements. Shannon Cancer Center receives national accreditation Gunter said she believes that, since the tax revenue used for TIRZ improvements comes from taxing units such as the City of San Angelo, the county and the school districts and because nonprofits do not necessarily fall under the permitted uses for TIRZ funding outlined in Chapter 311, nonprofits should not be considered eligible for TIRZ funding. Lets be clear: You cannot loop the City of San Angelo, Texas, into the conversation of all nonprofits, Gunter said. It is a taxing entity. It separates itself from all others, so the fact that you might have given approval to public improvement projects does not open the door for other nonprofit conversations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City Council further deliberated the proposal, with one council member finding the community assistance nonprofits potentially bring to be a good reason to instate the policy. As long as these people, these nonprofit organizations, are helping the people that are not as fortunate as other people in this community I do not see a problem when the north side has two-point-something million dollars and takes out $100,000 set aside to help, District 4 Council Member Lucy Gonzales said. Other council members advocated for delaying a decision on the proposal until more details regarding the policy could be clarified. I think this item, today, is not clear enough for people to make the decisions they need to make, District 3 Council Member Harry Thomas said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the discussion, District 2 Council Member Tom Thompson made a motion to amend the current TIRZ incentive policy to remove all nonprofit eligibility. The City Council voted 3-3 regarding the motion. In response to the deadlock, the City Council chose to postpone making a decision while the policy proposal is revised. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. On 6 January the exiled Venezuelan opposition candidatemet with US Presidentin Washington, as well as President-elects nominee for national security adviser, End of preview - This article contains approximately 583 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options CataloocheeNorth Carolinas first established ski areais getting a new chairlift. Over the weekend, Cataloochee shared plans to replace its Omigosh double chairlift with a Doppelmayr quad chairlift. The lift is scheduled to begin construction in May 2025 and open in time for the beginning of the 2025-26 ski season. Itll rise 740 vertical feet, offering access to a mix of intermediate and advanced terrain. Omigosh is Cataloochees only chairlift that reaches the ski areas summit area. The lifts current alignment features a mid-station with access to Lower Omigosh, an intermediate run. Beyond the mid-station, Omigoshs upper terminal deposits skiers atop the ski area, marking the only access point for runs like The Meadows, Upper Omigosh, and Upper Snowbird. The new Omigosh will retain its predecessor's mid-station. Cataloochee Ski Area trail map. Photo: Cataloochee Ski Area The construction of a new and improved Omigosh lift marks a step forward for the Southeast ski scene, joining the revitalization of another North Carolina winter destination: Hatley Pointe. Previously known as Wolf Ridge, Hatley Pointe came under new ownership in 2023. The new ownersDavid and Deb Hatleyreopened the ski area on December 21st, 2024, and plan to create a four-season destination with activities likerock climbing and zip-lining. Work on a mountain bike park at the ski area is underway. Founded in 1961, Cataloochee was created by Tom Alexander in the hopes of providing winter employment opportunities for local ranch hands. Since then, the ski areas grown, now boasting five lifts, 50 acres of terrain, and 100% snowmaking coverage. To outsiders, it might come as a surprise that numerous ski areas call North Carolina homeCataloochee and Hatley Pointe arent alone. Appalachian Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain Resort, Sapphire Valley Ski Area, and Sugar Mountain Resort are other options for Southeast skiers. The North Carolina Ski Areas Association reports that between 2022 and 2023, the states ski areas contributed a $244 Million economic impact. Cataloochee opened for the 2024-2025 ski season on Saturday, November 23rd, thanks to a concerted snowmaking push. As of today, 15 of its 18 trails are open, and a handful of terrain park features are available. Come next winter, youll be able to fit a larger portion of your crew on the higher-capacity, four-person Omigosh lift. Related: What Gear Makes It Clear You Can't Ski? The Internet Decides Be the first to read breaking ski news with POWDER. Subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of skiing. From ski resort news to profiles of the worlds best skiers, we are committed to keeping you informed. The North Carolina Supreme Court on Tuesday blocked the certification of the state's Supreme Court election as it prepares to consider a challenge from a Republican appeals court judge who is seeking to overturn his loss in the November election. North Carolina Appellate Court Judge Jefferson Griffin, who narrowly trailed sitting North Carolina Justice Allison Riggs, a Democrat, in the November election, requested an immediate, temporary pause on the certification of the results last year as he asked the court to throw out more than 60,000 ballots. Such a move that would allow him to assume the lead in the race he lost by just 734 votes. Two recounts one machine and one partial hand have confirmed Riggs' electoral victory. But in its order granting the stay, the GOP-led Supreme Court also outlined an "expedited briefing schedule" on Griffin's petition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In the absence of a stay from federal court," the court's five conservative justices wrote, "this matter should be addressed expeditiously because it concerns certification of an election." Justice Anita Earls, the only other Democrat besides Riggs on the bench, dissented on the grounds that the standard for a pause had not been met, arguing that there is "no likelihood of success on the merits." Griffin filed the suit challenging his loss in mid-December after the Democrat-controlled state Board of Elections rejected his claim that it had erroneously and unlawfully counted thousands of votes, including provisional ballots and those cast from military voters overseas. He argued, in part, that those ballots came from a swath of voters who had incomplete voter registration applications. Some applications are incomplete because voters did not provide or weren't asked to provide driver's license information or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Riggs, who has served on the state Supreme Court since 2023 after being appointed, recused herself from the case immediately after it was filed in the state's highest court. The state Board of Elections previously moved to have the case removed to federal court shortly after, but the federal court sent it back to the state Supreme Court on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with Salon last month, Riggs said she was "saddened and disappointed" that the effort to contest her victory had escalated to this degree and voiced concern about the implications of the challenge on North Carolinian voters. "We need to remember that this is about voters and their choices," she said at the time. "Sometimes maybe democracy breaks your heart, but if you believe in the institutions and the dream that our founders had, I think you have to be willing to say, 'I am not going to try to burn things down if I don't win.'" The North Carolina Supreme Court will hear Griffin's petition later this month. Jan. 7GRAND FORKS An "enrollment cliff" facing colleges and universities across the United States is set to spare North Dakota for now, at least. A report released late last year by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education projects a peak in the national number of high school graduates this year, followed by a steady decline through 2041. North Dakota's number of high school graduates, though, isn't set to peak until 2034, and is one of a handful of states expected to see more high school graduates in 2041 than in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There are a lot of places across the country that are looking at 2025 as this peak for your number of high school graduates where higher education needs to adjust things," said Colleen Falkenstern, a senior research analyst with WICHE. "With North Dakota, you see you have more time for that." The "cliff" is a bit of a misnomer, as WICHE's report notes. Most of the country can expect a steady decline in high school graduates beginning next year, for one simple reason: the birth rate has declined steadily since 2007, 18 years ago. But North Dakota is one of 12 states, as well as Washington, D.C., that can expect to see its numbers continue to grow over the next several years. That's because of several mitigating factors, according to state demographer Nigel Haarstad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one, North Dakota experienced a significant influx of migrants during the previous decade, driven by the Bakken oil boom and statewide economic growth. Many of those migrants were of childbearing age, and went on to start families in the state. North Dakota also consistently ranks highly in fertility rates, Haarstad noted in an email to the Herald, and had the fourth-highest fertility rate in the U.S. in 2022, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. WICHE's projections generally gel with current class sizes in North Dakota's public schools, said Jennifer Weber, director of institutional research for the North Dakota University System. (The WICHE projection also indirectly incorporates migration data by measuring how one cohort of students increases or decreases as they age.) Graduation numbers aren't the only thing that matter, though, Weber noted: the propensity of those high school graduates who go on to attend college is also important. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nationwide factors like a bad economy can lead to college enrollment increases as people delay entering the workforce. Weber says the Great Recession which is often pegged as the initial cause for the national decline in birth rates likely drove NDUS to its all-time enrollment high in 2011, even as the Bakken boom shielded North Dakota from the economic downturn affecting much of the country. A more local factor Weber thinks affected college enrollment in North Dakota was the Legislature's decision to begin offering scholarships for students at state colleges and universities in 2009. Weber thinks the scholarships helped keep college students, including her two daughters, in-state even as state institutions saw declines in enrollment after 2011. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Dakota's graduation rates are projected to drop after 2034, and neighboring states like Minnesota will likely face enrollment declines much sooner. That could affect some eastern colleges like North Dakota State University, where the student body has more Minnesotans than natives. For the moment, though, Weber said, system administrators aren't freaking out. "We're keeping our eye on it, we're vigilant, but we don't have any reason to have sirens going off at this time," Weber said. The state system has seen continued enrollment gains this year at almost every institution, warding off fears that schools like NDSU could lose students to Minnesota's North Star scholarship program. Weber said the state is also well-positioned as college increasingly moves online by merit of the University of North Dakota's hybrid and remote offerings more than half all UND students had a partially- or fully-online course load last year. North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong gives his first State of the State address Jan. 7, 2025, at the Capitol. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong unveiled a plan Tuesday that aims to eliminate property taxes for most homeowners within a decade. In his first State of the State address, the Republican also signaled support for education savings accounts and public charter schools, pledged to address overcrowded prisons and jails and committed to prioritizing behavioral health services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reforming property taxes ought to be the Legislatures first priority, Armstrong said, to ensure home ownership remains affordable. Key points of his plan include: Increasing the primary residence tax credit from $500 a year to up to $1,550 for the first year. Funding the program with Legacy Fund earnings. As the fund grows, homeowners would see larger refunds each year, putting most homeowners on a path toward zero property taxes within a decade. Establishing a 3% annual cap on local property tax budgets. The cap applies to all types of property, not just residential. Cities, counties, schools and park districts could carry over unused increases for up to five years in order to plan for larger projects. Armstrong addressed pushback the caps are likely to receive from local government leaders. And to those who say the state shouldnt be capping local budgets, when this package is approved, the state will be paying for over 50% of the local share of property taxes, Armstrong said. We absolutely have a say in their budget growth. The proposal follows a citizen-led effort that sought to eliminate all property taxes based on assessed value. Although voters rejected the ballot measure in November, they have continued to complain about property taxes being too high. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recognizing the frustration of our constituents and using the expertise and background of our legislators, we are offering the most aggressive, durable and responsible plan to reduce property taxes that has ever been proposed, Armstrong said. Lawmaker reaction Rep. Craig Headland, R-Montpelier, chair of the House Finance and Taxation Committee, called Armstrongs property plan a great start. Headland said he doesnt know if a 3% local property tax cap will be in the final legislation, but his committee will begin to iron out the details. The North Dakota Association of Counties has traditionally opposed capping property taxes, citing concerns that the limits infringe on local government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aaron Birst, executive director, said being able to carry over unused increases seems to be moving in the right direction. Im interested in exploring how that could be done, Birst said. Rep. Scott Louser, R-Minot, who also has been working on a property tax reform bill, said he has sensed momentum building for property tax caps. What this does is encourage prudent spending, Louser said. Sen. Josh Boschee, D-Fargo, assistant Senate minority leader, called Armstrongs property tax proposal progressive. Boschee, a real estate agent, said hes pleased the plan would eliminate the need for homeowners to apply every year. Gov. Kelly Armstrong greets members of his Cabinet before giving the State of the State address Jan. 7, 2025. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) Education Armstrong, who will deliver his budget recommendations next week, said he supports education savings accounts, which he described as funding set aside for students to go toward services or tuition at public, private or homeschool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The money follows the students, not the school, ensuring every student has the tools they need to prepare for college, a career or the military, Armstrong said. He also said he supports creating public charter schools with the same performance standards as public K-12 schools. This policy change will create another choice for families when selecting the learning environment they feel is best suited for their childs needs, Armstrong said. Armstrong commended the Legislatures investment in Career and Technical Education and called the North Dakota University System the states greatest recruitment tool. He called on the states public colleges and universities campuses to adapt to changing demographics and learning models. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to stop talking about closing campuses and refocus on how to make our institutions more responsive to our workforce needs, Armstrong said. Nick Archuleta, president of North Dakota United, which represents public educators, said his organization opposes using public dollars for private school tuition. Louser, who also is a Minot school board member, said he expects several school choice bills to be introduced. He said it will be a challenge to sort through the various proposals. I wouldnt say its controversial, but it will be confusing, he said. Gov. Kelly Armstrong delivers the State of the State address Jan. 7, 2025, to a joint session of the House and Senate. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) Corrections, behavioral health Armstrong said the state needs an immediate solution to address overcrowding in state prisons and county jails. He said he plans to announce next week a tangible, turnkey solution to address the overcrowding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also called for a new approach to corrections. Finding practical solutions that will increase access to services while reducing the reliance on our jails and prisons as treatment centers is a top priority of our administration, Armstrong said. He announced the creation of a new governors Cabinet position, the Commissioner of Recovery and Re-Entry. He said he wants to build on the work of former first lady Kathryn Burgums efforts to end the stigma around the disease of addiction. Armstrong appointed Jonathan Holth, who is in long-term recovery and recently served as director of Recovery Reinvented during the Gov. Doug Burgum administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The goal of the position will be to bring together the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, county jails, law enforcement, judicial system, tribal partners and addiction counselors. We have to take an all-of-government approach to these challenges, Armstrong said. Energy, agriculture Armstrong, who didnt seek reelection to the U.S. House in order to run for governor, expressed a commitment to push back against federal regulations that affect energy and agriculture, North Dakotas top industries. We owe it to our farmers, ranchers and energy producers to engage in this fight, Armstrong said. We owe it to our citizens to defend our way of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called for policies that promote using carbon dioxide to enhance oil recovery in the Bakken. He also said the state should work with the pipeline industry to improve transportation of natural gas. Streamlining government Armstrong said he supports streamlining state government, calling attention to 154 different state boards and commissions. He said hes working with lawmakers on a bill that would analyze all boards and recommend some for combination or elimination. Armstrong said he signed an executive order Tuesday that dissolves five boards. Most had either not met in a year or had completed their work, such as a task force on the 2020 Census. Workforce Throughout his speech, Armstrong made references to addressing North Dakotas workforce challenges, emphasizing policies that make the state the best place to live, work and raise a family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not the biggest state. We dont claim to be and we dont want to be, he said. But the people of North Dakota have big hearts and big ideas, and we have always had the courage to try new things. This story has been corrected. An earlier version had incorrect information about the position and title of North Dakota United President Nick Archuleta. Executive Order 2025-01 Advocates celebrate 2023 legislation capping insulin prices for people on the state employee health insurance plan in a signing ceremony at the North Dakota Capitol with Gov. Doug Burgum in May 2024. Angela Kritzberger, second from right, and her daughter Nina, third from right, plan to travel to Bismarck this week to testify in favor of a bill to extend the caps to the general North Dakota commercial insurance market. (Mary Steurer/North Dakota Monitor) Lawmakers on Thursday will hear testimony on a bill to lower the price of insulin drugs and supplies for more North Dakotans. If adopted as currently written, House Bill 1114 would set out-of-pocket costs for a monthly supply of insulin at $25 for the North Dakota commercial insurance market. The same monthly price cap would also apply to medical supplies used to administer insulin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new caps would affect North Dakotans on individual, small group and large group insurance plans within the fully insured market. The bill doesnt apply to the self-insured market. More 2025 legislative session coverage The caps were already piloted for state employee health plans beginning in 2023, which would continue under the proposal. Advocates attempted to bring a similar bill during the 2023 session. Under state law, however, North Dakota must first pilot any health insurance mandates on state employee health insurance before rolling it out to the full North Dakota marketplace. Basically, it acts kind of like a study to see how it impacts the PERS (Public Employees Retirement System) active health insurance plan that includes both state employees and employees of participating political subdivisions, Rebecca Fricke, executive director of PERS, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end, the bill Senate Bill 2140 was changed to implement a two-year test run of the caps for those on the state plan. The 2023 legislation specifically instructed PERS to bring a follow-up bill during the 2025 session extending the price caps to the general state insurance marketplace. Angela Kritzberger, whose daughter Nina has Type 1 diabetes, was one of the advocates who spoke in favor of insulin caps during the 2023 session. Our hope was to get it for everyone, Kritzberger said. She said she plans to travel to Bismarck this week so her daughter can offer testimony in support of the 2025 bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill received recommendation from the interim Employee Benefits Programs Committee and was introduced by the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee. This is a very positive move for persons who need this kind of care, and its a very positive thing for our society, said Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo, the lead sponsor of the 2023 version of the bill. House Bill 1114 is scheduled for a hearing before the Government and Veterans Affairs Committee on Thursday at 10:15 a.m. Written testimony on the bill may be submitted to the committee by 7:45 a.m. Thursday. Last session, the Greater North Dakota Chamber of Commerce spoke against insulin caps, cautioning against government intervention in the free market. The chamber also said that many insulin manufacturers and health insurers have already voluntarily lowered prices for insulin for consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three largest manufacturers for the U.S. insulin market Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi all recently lowered the cost of their insulin products. Owing in part to those price cuts, the PERS board found that the pilot program didnt come at a significant cost to the state. In a study presented by PERS to the interim Employee Benefits Programs Committee, Deloitte consultants found that continuing the caps for the 2025-2027 biennium would result in an estimated 0.12% increase in claims costs to the state insurance program, or roughly $1 million. The fiscal note attached to bill House Bill 1114 estimates the cost to the state at about $834,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Deloitte study also reported that as of August, 24 states and Washington, D.C., had also implemented insulin price limits for state-regulated commercial health insurance plans. New insulin caps went into effect Jan. 1 for Affordable Care Act-compliant individual and small group plans in North Dakota. Jacob Just, director of communications for the North Dakota Insurance Department, said these caps essentially cover the same plans as House Bill 1114. This bill would just look to codify what has already been in effect, Just said. The Insurance Department will be offering neutral testimony on the bill, he added. Kritzberger said that even if the market is lowering insulin prices, putting the caps into state law are needed to ensure prices dont swell again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When insulin is prohibitively expensive, diabetes patients may forego treatment which can cause life-threatening health complications, she said. I think weve seen what the market can do, Kritzberger said. This story has been updated to correctly reflect which insurance plans would be affected by this bill. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency on Tuesday claimed a successful test of a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile, with leader Kim Jong Un touting the weapon as a major military achievement. KCNA said the successful test took place on Monday. The launch marked Pyongyang's first missile test of 2025 and came with Secretary of State Antony Blinken in the region for what is expected to be his last foreign trip as America's top diplomat. Kim personally oversaw the test, KCNA said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim said the missile's hypersonic glide vehicle traveled more than 930 miles at 12 times the speed of sound. It reached two different peaks of 62 miles and 26.4 miles before hitting a simulated target at sea, the North Korean leader said. PHOTO: This undated picture released from North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency via KNS on Jan. 7, 2025 shows North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un watching the launch of a missile at an undisclosed location in North Korea. (Str/KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Images) The development of the weapon is "mainly aimed to steadily put the country's nuclear war deterrent on an advanced basis by making the means of changing the war situation, the weapon system to which no one can respond, the linchpin of strategic deterrence," Kim said, as quoted by KCNA. "This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defense, not an offensive plan and action," Kim said. "The performance of our latest intermediate-range hypersonic missile system cannot be ignored worldwide and the system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," the leader added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The launch "clearly showed" Pyongyang's "rivals" that the country is "fully ready to use even any means to defend our legitimate interests," Kim continued. "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state," he said. MORE: North Korea tests ballistic missile as Blinken visits South Korea North Korea has embarked on an intense program of weapons tests in recent years, including intercontinental ballistic missiles, medium-range rockets and hypersonic weapons. The increase in tests came as relations with the United States and its regional allies deteriorated and Pyongyang pulled closer to Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea has been testing hypersonic weapons -- which fly at more than five times the speed of sound, their speed and trajectory making them difficult to intercept -- since 2021. South Korea cast doubt on its neighbor's purported test. Lee Sung Joon, the spokesperson for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Seoul's military believed Pyongyang was exaggerating its capabilities, The Associated Press reported. Lee said the missile covered a shorter distance than Kim claimed and that there was no second peak. PHOTO: This undated picture released from North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency via KNS on Jan. 7, 2025 shows the launch of a missile at an undisclosed location in North Korea. (Str/KCNA VIA KNS/AFP via Getty Image) The latest test came as Blinken visited South Korea and Japan -- two key American regional allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blinken on Monday condemned North Korea's launch as "yet another violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions," and again criticized Pyongyang for its materiel and personnel contributions to Russia's ongoing war on Ukraine. ABC News' Will Gretsky contributed to this report. North Korea fired hypersonic missile in message to 'rivals,' Kim Jong Un says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea said Tuesday its latest weapons test was a new hypersonic intermediate-range missile designed to strike remote targets in the Pacific as leader Kim Jong Un vowed to further expand his collection of nuclear-capable weapons to counter rival nations. The North Korean state media report came a day after South Koreas military said it detected North Korea launching a missile that flew 1,100 kilometers (685 miles) before landing in waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The launch, conducted weeks before Donald Trump returns as U.S. president, came off a torrid year in weapons testing. North Korea demonstrated multiple weapons systems last year that can target its neighbors and the United States, including solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, and there are concerns that its military capabilities could advance further through technology transfers from Russia, as the two countries align over the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea in recent years has flight tested various intermediate-range missiles, which if perfected, could reach the U.S. Pacific military hub of Guam. In recent months, North has been testing combining these missiles with purported hypersonic warheads to improve their survivability. North Korea since 2021 has been testing various hypersonic weapons designed to fly at more than five times the speed of sound. The speed and maneuverability of such weapons aim to withstand regional missile defense systems. However, its unclear whether these missiles are consistently flying at the speeds the North claims. The Norths state media said Kim supervised Mondays launch, and that the weapon traveled 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), during which it reached two different peaks of 99.8 kilometers (62 miles) and 42.5 kilometers (26.4 miles) and achieved a speed amounting to 12 times the speed of sound, before accurately striking a sea target. Lee Sung Joon, spokesperson of South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the South Korean military believes North Korea was exaggerating capabilities of the system, saying the missile covered less distance and that there was no second peak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lee said the test was likely a followup to another hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile test last April and said it would be difficult to use such systems in a relatively small territory like the Korean Peninsula. He said the South Korean and U.S. militaries were continuing to analyze the missile. Kim described the missile as a crucial achievement in his goals to bolster the Norths nuclear deterrence by building an arsenal no one can respond to, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state, the agency quoted Kim as saying. Kim reiterated that his nuclear push was aimed at countering different security threats the hostile forces posed to our state, but KCNA didnt mention any direct criticism toward Washington, Seoul or Tokyo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The launch took place while 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. In a news conference with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul on Monday, Blinken condemned North Koreas launch, which violated U.N. Security Council resolutions against the North's weapons programs. He also reiterated concerns about the growing alignment between North Korea and Russia in Moscows war on Ukraine. He described the military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow 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. 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 Kims nuclear-armed military. At a year-end political conference, Kim Jong Un 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 as president, 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. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) North Myrtle Beach City Council during a Tuesday workshop discussed potential parameters for toughening short-term rental rules. Officials presented slides of a draft ordinance with some requirements of the potential rules. There are more than 5,400 short-term rentals known to city officials, but about 1,700 of them do not have a designated local agent. When you have a tourism-based economy such as ours, obviously its a huge issue here, city manager Ryan Fabbri said. You have a lot of folks who choose to rent their homes, a lot of people come here on vacation, so people want to capitalize on that activity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The draft ordinance also included what it called major and minor violations as well as penalties for the violations, including escalating fines up to $2,000 by a third offense for a major administrative violation. Myrtle Beach officials ban short-term rental conversions, point to millions in economic impact Those ideas were in excess of what wed be able to do, Fabbri said. State law doesnt allow us to exceed a certain amount. Right now, a maximum penalty is $500. Fabbri in November said it could cost up to $1 million to partner with a compliance firm and create a short-term rental enforcement unit paid for by a $250 annual permit fee for property owners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No official action was taken on Tuesday. Mayor Marilyn Hatley stressed getting something done in a timely manner, while Fabbri said they were headed in the right direction. Myrtle Beach leaders in December banned short-term rental conversions, pointing to millions in economic impact. Its not one-size-fits-all in terms of how all the different communities approach dealing with short-term rentals, Fabbri said. So its a little bit more nuance, and its a sensitive issue so we want to make sure we do it right. Fabbri said hed like to see the ordinance pass by early summer, but another workshop or two may have to happen before then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. * * * Jackie LiBrizzi is a multimedia journalist at News13. Jackie is originally from Hamilton, New Jersey, and was raised in Piedmont, South Carolina. Jackie joined the News13 team in June 2023 after she graduated as a student-athlete from the University of South Carolina in May 2023. Follow Jackie on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read 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 WBTW. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) Wilson B. Owens was 39 years old when he was behind the controls of an Army AH-6G light attack helicopter during Operation Just Cause in December 1990. The North Myrtle Beach native known as Sonny came under heavy enemy fire, and although his aircraft was struck multiple time, Owens stayed engaged so friendly ground forces could retreat during the pitched battle in Panama. Owens at one point ran out of ammunition, rearmed and continued fighting until the helicopter was critically hit and crashed, killing him on Dec. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was a hero, after saving so many peoples lives. Its an incredible story, North Myrtle Beach council member Bubba Collins said Monday. His colleague, councilwoman Nicole Fontana, wants Owens sacrifice to be honored at the citys veterans memorial. Owens was among 26,000 troops sent into Panama by President George H.W. Bush to support Guillermo Endara, the countys democratically elected president, and arrest dictator Manuel Noriega. It was the United States largest military operation since the Vietnam War. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. 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 WBTW. NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) Developers behind a planned community in North Myrtle Beach that would bring more than 840 homes have a lot more work to do before getting approval from city leaders, they were told on Monday. Theres no way I would approve this, council member Bubba Collins said of designs plans for The Preserve, which would bring 848 homes between Highway 22 and Carolina Bays Parkway. The Klotz Group of Companies, based in Florida, has been working with city officials since 2021 on the project, and said in June it hoped to break ground this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initially, builders want to construct 826 units and a 10,000-square-foot commercial building but a proposal on Mondays agenda showed density increasing to 848 units without any commercial uses. Im surprised this even made it to city council, Collins said. Throughout the 110-acre lot, there are some wetlands, which developers say they plan to protect and incorporate into the layout. Officials are expected to hold a workshop later this month or early February to iron out details before voting on the issue. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. 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 WBTW. By Alimat Aliyeva The Chinese photovoltaic company Trina Solar has set a new world record for energy conversion efficiency with a specific type of solar module, Azernews reports. In laboratory tests, Trinas large-area HJT (Heterojunction Technology) modules achieved an efficiency of 25.44%, a result certified by the German solar energy research center Fraunhofer CalLab. Energy conversion efficiency refers to the percentage of solar energy that a device can convert into usable electricity. Improving efficiency helps reduce the size and production costs of solar installations, making them more affordable and accessible. Professor Martin Green from the University of New South Wales in Sydney commented that this result highlights the potential of HJT solar technology, which is expected to lead the sector in the future. "In the long run, everything depends on efficiency. Even though some solutions might be more expensive initially, costs tend to decrease rapidly as new technologies are introduced into the industry," Green told Reuters. These results not only represent a milestone for HJT technology but also mark a significant advancement in the efficiency of photovoltaic conversion for monocrystalline silicon-based solar modules. Trina Solar noted that the achievement is a new benchmark in the industry. The companys Executive Director emphasized that Trina Solar will continue to invest in research and development to maintain its leadership in solar technology. HJT modules are considered one of the most promising technologies for achieving higher efficiency due to their ability to combine the best features of crystalline silicon and thin-film solar cells. On 6 January a military court that had been overseeing an investigation into army officers who allegedly backed plans for a coup detat in 2022 transferred the case to Brazils supreme court (STF). End of preview - This article contains approximately 399 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options A storm surge in the North Sea disrupted ferry services to Germany's North Frisian Islands early on Monday. In Dagebull, close to the Danish border, the ferry pier was flooded after water rose a good 2 metres above the normal high tide level, according to data from the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH). In the North Sea, a storm surge occurs when the tide rises at least 1.5 metres above the normal high tide level. However, major damage is usually only expected at much higher water levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei ferry company cancelled services to the North Frisian Islands, including Amrum and Fohr. Neue Pellwormer Dampfschiffahrts also cancelled the first two morning services between Nordstrand and Pellworm and intended to resume services in the morning. According to the BSH, the water level in the northern city of Hamburg was expected to be slightly above the storm surge mark early on Monday. (FOX40.COM) A traffic stop in Northern California led to the discovery of a felon in possession of drugs and a gun, according to the Fairfield Police Department. At around 9:21 p.m. on Sunday, FPD pulled over a vehicle in the 4300 block of Central Place. The vehicle had two occupants. The driver was a man and the passenger was a woman. $1M credit card scam gets Sacramento man sentenced to prison According to FPD, a records check showed the driver was on active California Department of Corrections parole. Police searched the vehicle and said they found a backpack belonging to the driver. It reportedly contained bagged-up marijuana and money indicative of narcotic sales. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers also located a loaded handgun underneath the front passengers seat. Both driver and passenger were arrested and booked into Solano County Jail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News. The U.K-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) has set up a tracking system to alert allies if a ship poses a threat to undersea cable infrastructure and to monitor Russia's shadow fleet of tankers, London said on Jan. 7. The JEF is a coalition of 10 northern European NATO countries. The decision comes after several telecommunication and energy cables underneath the Baltic Sea were damaged over the past six months, with four telecom cables and one power cable severed on Dec. 25. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only two of those cables of the Christmas incident were repaired by Jan. 7. Authorities suspect the Russian shadow vessel Eagle S of the sabotage. The new Nordic Warden system monitors ships in real-time and alerts JEF and NATO allies if a vessel behaves suspiciously. Its database also contains tankers that are part of Russias shadow fleet. The shadow fleet refers to a group of aging, poorly insured tankers Russia uses to avoid international sanctions on its oil trade. Moscow also uses these vessels for espionage, Sweden said. "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," U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parallel to the Nordic Warden operation, NATO is increasing its military presence in the Baltic Sea to bolster situational awareness and deter potential threats. Allies are also exploring measures to protect critical undersea infrastructure, supported by NATO's Maritime Centre for Security of Critical Undersea Infrastructure, established in May. Allied officials have raised alarm over a growing number of Russian sabotage operations in Europe since the West threw its support behind Kyiv after the outbreak of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Read also: Russia could inflict substantial casualties by unconventional attack against NATO, allied official says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Jan. 6WASHINGTON The House and Senate met in a joint session of Congress on Monday and certified the election of Donald Trump as president of the United States. The whole thing took barely half an hour. It was extraordinary in its ordinariness, because of what happened exactly four years earlier, when Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol to stop lawmakers from formalizing his loss in the 2020 election. Not only did the losing candidate this time, outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris, not object to the legitimacy of the election, but in her constitutional role as president of the Senate, Harris presided over the certification of her own defeat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After members of the House and Senate read aloud the number of electoral votes from each state addressing her as "Madam President," an honorific she had hoped to hear in a different context Harris totaled them up. "Donald J. Trump of the state of Florida has received 312 votes," she said, pausing to let Republicans applaud. "Kamala D. Harris of the state of California has received 226 votes." Then in the antiquated language of the founding era, Harris proclaimed, "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." The seemingly banal statement bore additional meaning because, on this day in 2021, the symbolic counting of the electoral votes was not deemed sufficient by Trump and his allies. That included 139 House Republicans and eight GOP senators who voted to overturn the election results after Congress reconvened following the riot that left four protesters dead and at least 140 police officers injured, of whom five later died by suicides and a stroke that may have been connected to the violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the four years since he called the riot "a heinous attack on the United States Capitol," Trump has attempted to rewrite the history of that day and now promises to pardon some or all of the convicted rioters after his inauguration on Jan. 20. Several Northwest lawmakers marked the anniversary by urging their colleagues and all Americans not to forget what happened on Jan. 6, 2021. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., said in a statement that "we must never take for granted" the process of certifying election results. "We saw four years ago, just how fragile democracy can be," Murray said. "We saw our nation pushed to the edge of tyranny when a leader who didn't get his way attacked the very foundations of our democracy by inflaming tensions with falsehoods, and cheering those who would use violence to overthrow the will of the American people." With that leader on the verge of moving back into the White House after winning not only the electoral college but unlike his victory in 2016 also the popular vote, Democrats are still figuring out how to approach Trump's second term in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Michael Baumgartner, a Spokane Republican who was sworn in on Friday, said in a brief interview that he was pleased the certification happened "in a peaceful and orderly manner" in light of what happened four years earlier. "The demeanor of everyone both from the House and the Senate, Republicans and Democrats I thought was a good moment for the country," Baumgartner said. "And I also appreciated Vice President Harris and her role in the proceedings. I think it was a good reminder of the special republic that we live in and the strength of the institution." In a video posted on the social media platform X on Monday morning, Harris called the peaceful transfer of power "one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy." "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," she said of her role in the certification. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Pramila Jayapal, a Seattle Democrat who was in the House gallery as rioters pounded on the doors of the chamber four years earlier, reflected on the violence of that day and criticized Republicans for blocking an effort to put up a plaque to honor the officers injured in clashes with protesters. "While I intend to do everything possible to continue to protect our democracy and to stand up for vulnerable Americans," Jayapal wrote on X, warning that Trump's policies could threaten Social Security and Medicare while cutting taxes on billionaires, "I know that the survival of our democracy depends on our willingness to uphold the results of our elections, whether we like them or not." Three of the four Republicans who represent Idaho in Congress expressed excitement about the incoming Trump administration in short posts on social media, with Sen. Jim Risch cheering "FOUR MORE YEARS!" and Rep. Mike Simpson, who represents Eastern Idaho and most of Boise, sharing a post by Trump and adding, "It's time to get our nation back on track." Rep. Russ Fulcher, whose district includes North Idaho, posted on X that House Republicans are ready to enact Trump's policy agenda, which the Idaho lawmaker described in a series of points including "Close the border," "Reinstate the rule of law" and "Cut spending." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Republicans will control the White House and both chambers of Congress once Trump takes office, the Senate filibuster rule means they will have limited opportunities to pass bills without Democratic support. With a razor-thin margin in the House, Trump's pledge to cut taxes while protecting costly programs like Social Security and Medicaid may come into conflict with the cost-cutting priorities of the hardline Freedom Caucus, of which Fulcher is a member. Orion Donovan Smith's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor. Jan. 6The Northwest Missouri State University Police Department thanked Facility Services on Monday, Jan. 6 through social media. NWMSU, located in Maryville, Missouri; The University's Facility Services team took to the campus' streets and parking lots to clear up the snow for students and staff on Monday. The NWMSU PD thanked the Facility Services team through a social media post on Monday afternoon, "Thank you to the Facility Services team! #essentialworkers" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Facility Services worked on several campus areas including, College Park Drive, the FVA parking lot, the McKemy building and parking lot, the area of Hudson and Perrin, Valk Hall and parking lot, Wells Hall and parking lot, Colden Hall, University Drive and the area around Fine Arts. For more information about Northwest Missouri State University or the NWMSU Police Department visit www.nwmissouri.edu. NORWICH, Conn. (WTNH) A Norwich man was indicted Tuesday on cocaine distribution and firearm possession charges, according to U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut Vanessa Roberts Avery. Javon Morse, 29, was on federal supervised released when he was arrested by Norwich police last October and charged with multiple offenses in connection to possessing nearly a kilogram of cocaine, narcotic pills, items used to process and package narcotics, four handguns, loaded high capacity magazines, and other items. New Haven dentist to pay $600K in false claims case Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Averys office, Morse was a convicted felon at the time, having been sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment and four years of supervised release for trafficking cocaine in December of 2017. He was released from prison in January of 2021. The indictment was returned on Dec. 17. It charged Morse with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and maximum term of 40 years. Another offense- unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon- carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Raleigh County residents are in for a cold week, with temperatures staying below freezing until the weekend. While meteorologists only predict another inch of snow overnight Monday in the Raleigh County area to add to the 4-6 inches already coating the ground, the real concern will be ice. Any slick surfaces will refreeze overnight, and then going forward, even if we dont receive any more snow, whats on the ground is going to stick around, said Gabe Wawrin, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Charleston. Theres no melting in the foreseeable future. He added that people should be mindful of any unplowed or untreated roadways as they will remain slick. Wawrin said parts of Beckley already had a decent amount of ice accumulation of roughly a quarter to half an inch, but no more was expected going forward. However, what people can expect is for the weather to remain cold. For Beckley, youll be subfreezing into and, its looking like, through the weekend, Wawrin said. Highs generally (Tuesday) and Wednesday low 20s, upper teens. Thursday and then Friday, you guys will warm up into the upper 20s and near 30s. This week, Wawrin said nighttime temps will drop into the teens and single digits. Its going to be very cold going forward, he said. So if theres any power outages, that would be the main concern. The Beckley Warming Center in the Fellowship Hall of Beckley Community United Methodist Church will open overnight Monday when the wind chill is predicted to reach 15 degrees or below, and the appropriate number of volunteers can staff the facility. The Beckley Warming Center will open Monday at 8 p.m. and stay open overnight until 7 a.m. Snow began falling early on Sunday and continued for the majority of Monday, causing the closure of several offices and widespread power outages. As of 2 p.m. Monday, Appalachian Power reported that 44,283 of its West Virginia customers were without power as snow continued to fall. The outage count in Beckley was 4,410, and the company estimated that power would be restored by approximately 8 p.m. Wednesday, according to a press release. The estimated time of restoration (ETR) is when Appalachian Power expects to have 90% or more customers restored. A press release from Appalachian Power stated that the utility company had over 5,500 personnel across the companys footprint working to restore power. The Raleigh County Courthouse, Beckley City Hall, West Virginia University Institute of Technology and New River Community and Technical College were all closed Monday as a result of the weather. The Beckley Common Council had scheduled to hold a special meeting Monday night to discuss the city manager position as well as applicants for the city attorney position, but that meeting was canceled. No announcement has been made on when the meeting will be rescheduled. Raleigh County Schools was already scheduled to have a professional learning day on Monday, which meant that students did not report to school; however, many local private schools announced closures or remote learning days. As of 5 p.m. Monday, no decision had been posted on whether students in Raleigh County would return to school on Tuesday or if government offices would be open. Sunday night was the first time Ive actually looked at Ford Field from the exterior, thanks to an overview shot pre-game. Were the architects highly respected architects with a beautiful portfolio? Ford Field is really ugly! Marshall Cossman Grand Blanc Flashback: Ford Field's $100-million renovation includes massive video boards, drops playoff banners A look towards Ford Field seen from the top of the Penobscot Building in downtown Detroit on Wednesday February 11, 2015. Add 'fix our country' to the resolution list It is time for New Years resolutions. This generally entails picking things that one is not very good at and trying to improve over the coming year. Countries should do this as well. In America, we generally view ourselves as a good country, but we do have quite a few shortcomings, especially when compared to other countries, that we should work on in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In health care and education, we've ranked near the bottom of the list of industrialized nations. We are number one in gun deaths among higher-income countries. Of the worlds richest nations, we rank among the worst in childhood poverty. And, we have the highest food insecurity rate of all the G7 countries. These are all things that our country should resolve to work on in the coming year and beyond, but it is easy for us, the average citizen, to dismiss them as problems that are out of our control. Its stuff for the government to solve. That brings me to one final stat that should result in a personal resolution for all Americans. Voter turnout in the United States is generally much lower than other democracies in the world. In this last election, of the 245 million people eligible to vote, 90 million Americans stayed home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of the aforementioned issues are ones that Americans care deeply about, but they are actually also our collective fault. The government is supposed to do what the people want. We may want to solve all of these problems, but politicians have no incentive to do so, if we dont tell them to do so. If we dont vote. Yes, we should all exercise more, get better sleep and spend quality time with our family, but lets also put fix the country" on our resolution list. Bryan Chase Huntington Woods Will the next presidential cabinet make us more secure? Incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune issued a related statement, pointing to the New Orleans attack as a clear example of why the Senate must get President Trumps national security team in place as quickly as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are these really the experts you want protecting your personal security and our national security? Pete Hegseth, Trumps choice to lead the Pentagon, is a scandal-plagued former television personality, whos never led a large organization, whos written bizarre and conspiratorial books, and whose highly provocative ideology will almost certainly generate significant opposition in the Senate. Kash Patel, Trumps choice to lead the FBI, is a partisan operative with very little experience in federal law enforcement, whos been condemned by some of his former Trump administration colleagues, and whos authored a literal enemies list. Tulsi Gabbard, Trumps choice to serve as director of national intelligence, has little background in intelligence work, has been accused of repeatedly echoing propaganda spread by Russia and has been condemned by former national security officials. Whats more, officials have reportedly expressed concern about sharing sensitive intelligence with the United States government if shes confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A secretary of defense nominee accused of raping a woman and having racist white nationalist beliefs; a director of national intelligence with a history of siding with Russia and other authoritarian regimes; a secretary of energy who's a fracking company CEO who claims there is no climate crisis; a secretary of health and human services who is an anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist. In summary, Trump's selections illustrate his lack of concern for our security and our country! As usual, Trump's only concern is loyalty to him and policies that will benefit him, like a big tax cut! People, now is the time to call your representatives and get organized! As voters, we have the power unless we choose to stay silent! Dr. Richard A. French Pasadena, California Renaissance Center The talk speculation, I hope about demolishing all or part of the Renaissance Center has caused me to reminisce about other one-time vacant Detroit buildings that many wanted demolished. Off the top of my head ... Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michigan Central (the City Council even gave a demolition order!); Book Cadillac Hotel; Vinson Building; David Broderick Tower; David Whitney Building; Book Building and Book Tower; Metropolitan Building; United Artists Theater Building; Wurlitzer Building; Hotel Eddystone; Fort Shelby Hotel. There are more, of course. Some of these have been repurposed; others maintain their original purpose (Book Cadillac, for example). If these buildings hadn't been saved, downtown Detroit could have laid claim to being the world's biggest surface parking lot. I, for one, would not have returned to Detroit after 25 years in Los Angeles. On the other hand, here are some that were regrettably demolished: Detroit's old city hall; Tiger Stadium; Statler-Hilton; Hudson's; University of Detroit Stadium; American Motors HQ building (with tower) and many more. Henry Ford famously said "If I would have asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses." The future of the Ren Cen may be something we haven't even imagined. Tearing the Ren Cen down should be taken off the option table. Thomas E. Page New Center, Detroit Tempest in a teapot More: Donald Trump fumes over flag flying at half-staff to honor Jimmy Carter during inauguration Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As far as the tempest-in-a-teapot that Donald Trump is putting up over our flag being rightfully flown at half staff during Trump's inauguration in order to respect and honor the death of Ex-President Jimmy Carter, I found a dateline from Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, to wit: "President Donald Trump is directing that American flags be flown at half-staff for 30 days to honor the memory of former President George H.W. Bush," ABC News reported. So Trump really can't say he didn't understand this was a long-standing requirement, nor that he was unaware of this requirement. Dave Renwick Walled Lake Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: Now that we're paying attention to the Lions, Ford Field is ugly | Letters NEW YORK A lawyer for Donald Trump on Tuesday failed to convince a New York appeals court to stop his sentencing from going ahead this week as the president-elect fired off a barrage of frenzied last-ditch attempts to close the book on his criminal hush money case before he takes office. Associate Justice Ellen Gesmer shot down Trumps emergency request for an interim stay, or pause, of his sentencing after briefly hearing from his attorney, Todd Blanche, and the Manhattan district attorneys chief of appeals, Steven Wu. During the hearing, Gesmer appeared skeptical of Blanches legal positions, including that Trump was shielded by presidential immunity as president-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do you have any support for a notion that presidential immunity extends to presidents-elect? Gesmer asked. There has never been a case like this before, so no, Blanche said. Earlier Tuesday, Trump asked the mid-level appeals court to throw out the case. The filing to the First Department, Appellate Division appeals court came a day after Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan denied a defense request to halt Trumps sentencing from going forward Friday as Trump appeals various decisions upholding the guilty verdicts against him. Merchan unexpectedly scheduled the proceeding in a decision last week. Trumps Tuesday appeals court filing says it seeks to redress the serious and continuing infringement on his Presidential immunity from criminal process that he holds as the 45th and soon-to-be 47th President of the United States of America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice Merchan is without authority under the law to proceed to sentencing while President Trump exercises his federal constitutional right to challenge these rulings, Blanche and Emil Bove wrote, demanding the verdict be vacated and the charges dismissed. Any criminal sentence, or even the distraction of ongoing criminal proceedings including appeals necessary to vindicate the Presidential immunity doctrine and President Trumps individual constitutional rights threatens to disrupt the enormously burdensome task of undergoing a Presidential transition, they later wrote. A spokeswoman for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the case, did not immediately comment. In his Friday decision that announced the sentencing, Merchan said he did not plan to impose a jail term or any other form of punishment and that Trump could appear by video. He decided Trump, as president-elect, was not shielded by the Supreme Courts July 1 ruling that granted the president sweeping protections from criminal actions and that the case shouldnt be tossed in light of Trump winning the presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December, the judge found that the Supreme Court ruling didnt apply to evidence in the case. The court filings come as Trump gears up for his inauguration on Jan. 20, set to become the first felon to serve as U.S. president. The Manhattan case was the only one of four brought against him after his first term that made it before a jury, and as the charges are state-level, he cannot pardon himself. A jury of 12 Manhattan residents on May 30 found Trump, 78, guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records stemming from a scheme to hide embarrassing details about his past from the electorate in 2016. The case centered on payments he made to Michael Cohen after his first presidential term began, which reimbursed his longtime former fixer for paying off porn star Stormy Daniels in the leadup to the election. Trial evidence showed Daniels was one of three hush money recipients. _____ NEW YORK A Manhattan judge on Monday denied a Hail Mary motion by Donald Trump to stop his sentencing in the Stormy Daniels hush-money case from going ahead this week. In a brief written decision, state Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan kept in place Trumps sentencing set for Friday at 9:30 a.m. after the president-elects lawyers asked him to immediately vacate the proceeding as they appeal his denials of several efforts to get the case thrown out. Merchan wrote that the legal positions Trump included in the request were for the most part, a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shot-down request came amid a flurry of filings Trumps lawyers brought in New York courts Monday as he was certified the winner of the 2024 election, four years to the day since the insurrection of the U.S. Capitol. After asking Merchan to cancel the sentencing, they asked the First Department, Appellate Division appeals court to reverse his rulings from Friday and Dec. 16, which rejected Trumps efforts to get the hush money indictment dismissed and the jurys guilty verdict vacated. They may ask the appeals court to intervene in the sentencing following Merchans order late Monday. Merchan, on Friday, 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 that the will of voters should override that of the jury who found him guilty. On Dec. 16, he also found that the Supreme Court immunity decision had no bearing on Trumps criminal case in Manhattan. In scheduling Trump for sentencing 10 days before his inauguration, Merchan said on Friday that it would bring closure to the case and allow Trump to exercise his options to appeal his conviction, which he cannot do before hes sentenced. Merchan 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. Trumps lawyers have indicated he will appear remotely if it goes ahead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scheduling came as a surprise, with prosecutors previously conceding that Trump may not face justice until 2029. In their request to Merchan to cancel the sentencing, which was made public Monday, Trumps lawyers, who have argued the cases existence will impact his ability to govern, said their appeals should automatically halt the proceedings from going forward. In the alternative, they said Merchan should grant the 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. (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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors opposed the request, citing the strong public interest in prompt prosecution and the finality of criminal proceedings. They said there was no risk the sentencing would interfere with the duties Trump will possess come Jan. 20 and that the current schedule was a result of his repeated delay tactics before and after his election victory, writing, He should not now be heard to complain of harm from delays he caused. Trump spokesman Steven Cheung did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Merchans ruling late Monday. The Manhattan DA declined to comment. 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. ______ On 6 January Chiles Presidentdismissed his minister of national assets,, over a controversial attempt to procure the residence of former president(1970-1973) for the state. End of preview - This article contains approximately 359 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) A New York City subway rider says he was stabbed multiple times on New Years Day after telling another person to stop spitting at him. The stabbing happened at the Cathedral Parkway110th Street station on Manhattans Upper West Side around 9:30 a.m., according to the MTA. More Local News The victim, 30-year-old Marqeise Imbert, said he was riding on a southbound No. 1 train when another subway rider started spitting toward him. Imbert said the man became angry when he told him to stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He became irate, Imbert said. His response was way more aggressive than I thought it would be. We started going back and forth. And he was like, Ill spit on you. Imbert said the man followed him off the train at the Cathedral Parkway110th Street station. The argument turned violent on the downtown platform. Man stabbed in fight over loud music on train in Grand Central Terminal: MTA I thought we were going to have a fight, but I guess he had different intentions, Imbert said. Imbert said the man stabbed him about five or six times throughout his body. He was hospitalized and is now recovering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His attacker fled and hasnt been arrested. Imbert said police retrieved surveillance video from the platform, but hes concerned detectives will have a difficult time catching the suspect because he was wearing a ski mask. In hindsight, Imbert said the man was likely looking for a fight. He was laid out spread across taking up seats with his legs. And for you to be spitting on a crowded train, you were just looking for somebody to go back and forth with, Imbert 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. 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. (NewsNation) A key architect of New York Citys new congestion pricing plan predicts the toll system will deliver similar traffic and pollution reductions as seen in other major cities despite initial pushback from drivers. Alex Matthiessen, an environmentalist who helped design the program, said he expects the $9 toll for entering Manhattan below 60th Street will significantly reduce traffic congestion while cutting air pollution and boosting economic productivity. Were going to see a lot of the same successes that Stockholm and London saw, Matthiessen said Monday on NewsNation Now. The traffic reduction will increase over time as the toll goes up to $12 and $15 over the next six years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Planning to visit New York City? Heres how congestion pricing may impact you The program launched Sunday aims to address what Matthiessen called a $20 billion annual drain on the regional economy from traffic congestion. He said revenue will fund improvements to the citys mass transit system, promising faster trains, more reliable trains, trains that get there on time. Responding to equity concerns, Matthiessen cited a Community Service Society study showing only 2% of low-income residents would face the new toll. He said that lower-income drivers qualify for discounts. While London saw traffic eventually return to pre-pandemic levels after implementing a similar system in 2003, Matthiessen argued conditions would be even worse without the pricing scheme. He pointed to added benefits like expanded bike and bus lanes and improved walkability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The toll applies on weekdays between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. and on weekends between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., with a reduced rate of $2.25 during off-hours. Fees vary for motorcycles, trucks and ride-share vehicles. 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 NewsNation. Hundreds of NYPD sergeants are expected to protest outside Mayor Adams upcoming State of the City address over a bizarre contract impasse thats left some sergeants with less pay than the police officers they supervise, union officials said Tuesday. The off-duty sergeants, as well as their supporters in the City Council, will converge on the Apollo Theater in Harlem on Thursday, where Mayor Adams will discuss last years successes which includes a 5% reduction in crime and outline his plans for the next year. Thursdays rally will be the first time police officers have publicly protested against Adams, a retired NYPD captain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This union has handled itself in a professional manner in trying to negotiate fairly, Sergeants Benevolent Association President Vincent Vallelong told the Daily News Tuesday. Weve tried to do it behind closed doors, but all were getting is lip service. The mayor has let this fall on deaf ears, so if were not on the top of his list, we want him to know that hes on the top of our list. Sgt. Christopher Leap, one of two NYPD supervisors shot and wounded by an armed gang member suspected of robbing a Lower East Side mah-jongg parlor will be among the speakers railing against the mayor on Thursday. The citys sergeants havent had a contract in two years because of an ongoing wage disparity affecting more than 1,200 supervisors that began when the city increased the salaries of rank-and-file police officers. After the city boosted salaries of long-serving cops, the SBA union realized that many sergeants are now earning less than the officers they oversee a situation that makes no sense, Vallelong said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As contract negotiations drag on, the citys Office of Labor Relations has asked the union to agree to givebacks to fix a problem they created, he said. With ongoing discussions bearing no fruit, Vallelong filed a declaration of impasse and called in a state mediator to help in October, but still nothing has been agreed to. The impasse comes as the Adams administration repeatedly boasts it has successfully negotiated contracts with unions representing nearly 97% of the citys workforce. Over the past year, the city has negotiated contracts with the Police Benevolent Association, United Federation of Teachers, United Probation Officers Association and Uniformed Sanitation Workers Union, to name a few. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokeswoman for Mayor Adams said City Hall is currently going through the mediation process with the Sergeants Benevolent Association and are committed to coming to a fair solution that will continue to protect public safety. Under the expired contract, the base pay for sergeants, who supervise several cops at a time while responding to 911 calls, starts at $98,000 a year and balloons to about $118,000 within five years. After the newest contract with the PBA, experienced police officers can earn about $115,000, SBA members said. The city put itself in a bind by increasing rank-and-file police officer wages without providing comparable increases to supervisory ranks, Vallelong said. Now you have new sergeants making less than top-pay police officers, the union president said. The OLR didnt realize your salary cant be less than what it was before you get promoted. Theres no other rank on the job this has happened to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A city official with knowledge of the contract negotiations said that the SBA has been offered wage increases of 18.5% over a five-year term like other uniform services. By honing in on the wage disparity, the union is depriving their members of the uniform coalition wage increases, the official said. Police officers become sergeants after studying and taking a civil service exam, so a great deal of work and effort goes into becoming a sergeant something the rank and file may not want to do if they know they can get the same salary as a cop if they work long enough, Vallelong said. The city is spending millions to level the playing field by promoting sergeants to the highest pay level, Vallelong said. During contract negotiations, the SBA provided several possible fixes, including a more equitable pay scale program, but the city didnt want to hear any of them, Vallelong said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We laid out the perfect plan to fix it and either they didnt comprehend or they didnt like the fact we did it for them, Vallelong said about OLR. You would think that the mayor being a former cop and knowing about this injustice the smart decision is to fix it, he said. Thats what leaders do. They see a problem and then they fix the problem and move on. If a contract isnt negotiated, things will get worse before they get better by July, 1,100 sergeants will have vested their pensions and would be free to retire, Vallelong said. There are currently 4,300 sergeants in the NYPD, which has about 36,000 members. You dont think that 70% of them are going to retire? Vallelong asked, adding that 71 sergeants have already put in their papers this month alone. Thats going to be a significant hit to the department. NEW YORK (PIX11) With the start of congestion pricing in New York City, state officials are focused on improving the subway system. But they admit theres a problemmany people arent feeling safe. On the first workday of the new MTA tolls, the NYPD unveiled a plan to change that perception, but there are fierce headwinds. More Local News I have five stab woundsone to my head, one to my shoulder, and three near my ribs, said Marqeise Imbert, who began New Years Day being viciously attacked on the subway. Police are still hunting for the masked suspect who was spitting on the 1 train. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was laid out on the seats and spitting on a crowded train, Imbert recalled. He said, Ill spit on you, and he got off behind me. Still bandaged and banged up, the 30-year-old victim is hopeful the NYPDs new subway safety plan will have a positive impact after a violent few weeks. Especially because, in the past five days, there have been continuous attacks on the subway, said Kevin Cardenas, another commuter. The safety plan coincides with the start of congestion pricing. The MTA is hoping commuters choose the subways instead of driving. Some of these high-profile incidents have gotten in peoples heads and make the whole system feel less safe, said Janno Lieber, MTA Chairman and CEO on Bloomberg Surveillance, Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We still must do more because people dont feel safe in our subways, said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Hochul proposes mental health law to curb violent NYC subway crime Over the last year, the NYPD has discovered that three-quarters of all transit crimes happen on subway cars and station platforms. Tisch just ordered 200 more police officers to ride on trains with passengers. They could be at Grand Central, but what about Elmhurst? Theyre not there, said Carlos Noboa, a subway rider. Police pledge to be citywide, staffing the 50 most dangerous stations with more officers. The NYPD has yet to respond to an inquiry into which stations theyre focusing on. However, crime statistics show Manhattan and the Bronx saw the most incidents last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor admits theres a problem yet to be solved. We have to tackle that perception, and it has to do with mental health, said Mayor Eric Adams. The mayor says he spoke with Governor Kathy Hochul this past weekend, and shes focused on including funding for mental health in the next budget. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Shark Tank star Kevin OLeary said Monday that the concept of the U.S. and Canada merging into one country is very interesting. I went to Palm Beach for a couple of days. On Saturday, we discussed Canada, OLeary, who is Canadian, said Monday evening on The Hill on NewsNation. You know, Trump says outrageous stuff. Everybody knows that. And he does policy by social media currently, but it causes a lot of a lot of activity, lets call it that. And so, within that idea, theres some very interesting concepts, he told host Blake Burman. One of them would be the economic union, cause Canadians dont wanna give up their sovereignty but what he said was, Lets get more powerful, cause economic success is power in todays world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investors comments follow President-elect Trumps pitch that the U.S. and Canada merge in the wake of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing his resignation. If Canada merged with the U.S., there would 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, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. Last month, the president-elect also said a lot of Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State, and questioned why the U.S. provides the country with subsidies. No one can answer why we subsidize Canada to the tune of over $100,000,000 a year? Makes no sense! Trump wrote on Truth Social at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incoming commander in chief has trolled Trudeau in recent weeks, calling him the governor of Canada after their meeting at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The prime ministers resignation comes after the president-elect announced he would attach new tariffs onto Canadian goods imported into the U.S., a pledge Trump said he would take back if the two countries were to merge. Trump also recently took aim at the Panama Canal and Greenland as places that could possibly be included as part of the U.S. OLeary told Burman he suggested to Trump that the Canadians that have come down Justin Trudeau, and then a few ministers, I would argue to you that youre wasting your time with them. The Hill has reached out to Trudeaus office for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. VAN HORNESVILLE, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) A teacher at Owen D. Young Central School in Van Hornesville was arrested over the weekend after he was accused of forcible touching. New York State Police arrested 29-year-old Cory Patterson of Whitesboro on Friday, January 3 after a preliminary investigation into his actions. The investigation alleged that in December, Patterson had touched two female victims, aged 14 and 17, at Owen D. Young Central School in Van Hornesville, where he had been employed as a teacher. According to a statement by Owen D. Young Superintendent Brennan Fahey and sent out to parents of all secondary students, Patterson had been placed on administrative leave from the school, and that the district has since received Pattersons resignation. However, the statement also said that as it was a personnel matter and an active investigation, the district was unable to comment any further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providing a safe learning environment for our students is an utmost priority for the Owen D. Young CSD. Rest assured, we remain committed to protecting the welfare of our students and are deeply troubled by this allegation and its effect on our school community. District counselors and administrators are available to speak with any student who may have been impacted by this matter. Owen D. Young Superintendent Brennan Fahey Patterson is currently being charged with the following: two counts of Forcible Touching, a Class A Misdemeanor, third-degree Sexual Abuse, a Class B Misdemeanor, and Acting in a Manner to Injure A Child less than 17 years old, a Class A Misdemeanor. After his arrest, Patterson was transported to the Town of Herkimer Court where he was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to return to the Town of Stark Court on Friday, January 17. This is an ongoing investigation. We will provide more information 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. You can learn a lot about a countrys healthcare system just by looking at how often people go to the doctor. This figure can tell you about the overall health of the population and how affordable it is to get medical care. In countries belonging to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this number varied from as little as an average of 2 visits in 2021 to 15. The overall average number of visits in these nations during this period was six, according to an OECD report. The report says the differing ways healthcare is delivered across countries explains why some have fewer doctor visits. In places like Finland, Sweden, the U.K. and the U.S., nurses and other healthcare professionals play a bigger role in primary care, leading to fewer visits to doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other factors include how doctors are paid and how much patients pay out-of-pocket. In some countries, like Germany, Japan, Korea, and Slovakia, doctors are mostly paid for each patient they see. These countries tend to have more doctor visits compared to countries where doctors are paid a fixed salary or a set amount per patient, like Denmark, Finland, Mexico, and Sweden. However, in the United States, even though doctors are mostly paid per visit, people dont see the doctor as often as you might expect. This is likely because many people have to pay a significant amount out-of-pocket when they see a doctor, which can discourage them from seeking care. Heres a ranking of OECD countries by average doctor consultations per year, based on the most recent data available. Sweden, Costa Rica, Brazil, and Mexico 2 visits per year Image: Alexander Spatari (Getty Images) Sweden, Costa Rica, Brazil, and Mexico averaged two in-person doctor consultation visits per year. United States, Greece, and Chile 3 visits per year Image: Philippe Gerber (Getty Images) The United States, Greece, and Chile averaged three doctor visits per year. Finland, Estonia, Norway, Denmark, and Portugal 4 visits per year Image: Alexander Spatari (Getty Images) Finland, Estonia, Norway, Denmark, and Portugal had an average of four doctor visits a year. France, Italy, Romania, Luxembourg, Spain, and Canada 5 visits per year Image: Alessandro Grussu (Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents of France, Italy, Romania, Luxembourg, Spain, and Canada averaged 5 doctor visits per year. Australia, Latvia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Bulgaria 6 visits per year Image: bennymarty (Getty Images) Australia, Latvia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Bulgaria had an average of six doctor visits per year. Israel, Belgium, Lithuania and Austria 7 visits per year Image: Colors Hunter - Chasseur de Couleurs (Getty Images) People living in Israel, Belgium, Lithuania and Austria visited the doctor an average of seven times throughout the year. Turkey, Czech Republic, and Poland 8 visits per year Image: Alexander Spatari (Getty Images) The countries of Turkey, Czech Republic, and Poland had an average eight visits per year. Netherlands 9 visits per year Image: George Pachantouris (Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents of the Netherlands visited the doctor an average of nine times a year. Germany and Hungary 10 visits per year Image: Edwin Remsberg (Getty Images) Germany and Hungary had an average of 10 doctor visits a year. Japan and Slovak Repbulic 11 visits per year Image: AlxeyPnferov (Getty Images) Japan and the Slovak Republic came in second place with an average of 11 in-person doctor consultations per year. South Korea 16 visits per year Image: Won Jin Choi (Getty Images) South Korea came out on top with an average of 16 doctor visits per year. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Samantha Farrell with Sensible Movement Coalition holds a flag depicting a cannabis leaf at a rally in support of legalized marijuana, April 20, 2023, outside the Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal. Republish photo only with original story.) Ohio recreational marijuana sales surpassed $242 million as 2024 came to a close. The states total recreational marijuana sales were $242,167,020, as of Dec. 28, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Cannabis Control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been 4,007,128 units of manufactured products that have been sold and 32,487 pounds of plant material, according to the department. Recreational sales began in August, about nine months after Ohioans voted to legalize recreational marijuana. There are 124 dual-use marijuana dispensaries in Ohio, meaning they can sell medical and non-medical marijuana, according to the division. Ohio lawmakers in the House and the Senate tried to make changes to the marijuana law before it took effect, but the chambers werent able to see eye-to-eye. The Senate tried to limit home grow, lower THC levels, up the tax rate, change how revenue is collected and ban the vast majority of vapes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A House bill would have also changed the tax revenue and clarified some of the marijuana laws language, such as explaining home grow must take place at a residential address. Ohios voter-passed law allows home grow with six plants per person with 12 plants per residence. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX More than 120 Ohio municipalities and townships have moratoriums in place banning the sale of adult-use cannabis as of Dec. 19, according to Ohio State Universitys Moritz College of Law. As the 136th General Assembly begins this week, lawmakers are expected to introduce legislation concerning marijuana and hemp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has been imploring lawmakers to ban or regulate delta-8 THC products, which are made from hemp and have 0.3% THC or less. There is currently no state age restriction when it comes to buying delta-8 products. A Senate bill in the previous General Assembly would have banned the sale of intoxicating hemp products in Ohio, but it didnt make it over the finish line. Incoming Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman supported the changes the Senate tried to make to the states marijuana law when he was Senate President, which could make it easier to advance potential marijuana law overhauls in the new General Assembly. Follow OCJ Reporter Megan Henry on Bluesky. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Ohios Secretary of State has updated paperwork that nearly disqualified several Statehouse candidates last year. Forms and petitions that must be completed by those running for Ohio public office, like a Declaration of Candidacy form and a Nominating Petition, were altered in December to include a larger space for the candidates name. The paperwork also now instructs candidates to include all prior names used in the past 5 years, excluding marriage name changes. List: High profile Franklin County trials expected in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our office said we would update the forms for the next election cycle to more clearly state the name disclosure requirement that candidates must follow under state law, said Dan Lusheck, spokesperson for Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. The new form does that, and its now available on our website for potential candidates to use if they decide to file a candidacy in 2025. LaRoses office amended the paperwork after Vanessa Joy, a transgender Stark County Democrat, was disqualified from running last year for not including her deadname the name a trans person was assigned at birth but does not align with their gender identity on her nomination petition. While Joy appealed her disqualification, the board of elections voted to keep her off the ballot. Watch a previous NBC4 report on Joys disqualification in the video player above. Several other trans Statehouse candidates nearly faced the same fate in 2024, like Democrat Arienne Childrey whose certification was questioned due to the name disclosure requirement. Childrey argued that the forms previous versions were designed in a way that effectively excluded many trans individuals from complying with their provisions. Increased number of Franklin County residents applying to change birth certificate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While I firmly believe that no trans person should ever be forced to deadname themselves, I am relieved that the forms have been updated to remove this unnecessary barrier, she said. This change gives trans individuals the ability to weigh the personal cost of disclosing their deadnames against the opportunity to pursue public service. For me, the decision is clear: It is always worth fighting for a seat at the table, especially when so many in our state government continue to target and marginalize our community. Bobbie Arnold, a West Alexandria trans candidate, had her possible disqualification dismissed by the Montgomery County Board of Elections. Ari Faber, an Athens County trans candidate, was cleared to run for an Ohio Senate seat but had to use his deadname since he has not legally changed it. Rep. Tex Fischer (R-Boardman) was also questioned after the Mahoning County Democratic Party argued he should be removed for failing to include his former name, Austin James Fischer, on filing paperwork. The representative changed his legal name in 2020 to Austin James Texford Fischer when he began going by Tex. LaRose ruled in September that Fischer could appear on the ballot. $450,000 settlement for Ohio teacher who refused to use students pronouns Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Ohios name-change rule came under the spotlight, dueling bills were introduced to deal with the matter. A bill introduced by Democrats wouldve amended the former name requirement, adding an exemption from disclosure if the change of name was granted by any court in the state of Ohio. Like LaRoses December update to the forms, the bill would have added space to the Declaration of Candidacy form so that candidates who are required to provide previous names used in the last five years would have space to do so. Republican lawmakers who ran and won against Childrey and Arnold introduced legislation that doubled down on the rule and wouldve required candidates who changed their name within five years to circulate petitions with their current and former names. The bill wouldve also allowed any eligible voter, regardless of party affiliation, to formally protest a political partys candidate, while current law only allows an individual to challenge a candidate who is part of their same 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. In todays workplace, what you learned in the usual college courses may not be very useful later in life. For example, in the field of information technology, workers might never use BASIC, the computer language that was taught in the 1990s. But they might need to know Python or SQL. The answer for students or workers is a professional certificate program, or what is called microcredential. What is microcredential? UNESCO, the worlds education agency, defines microcredential as professional certification that centers on a set of learning outcomes in a narrow field. It is completed over a shorter time than a traditional university program, from a week to a month. The most popular fields in which microcredentials appear are data analytics, information technology support and cybersecurity. The courses are often developed by technology businesses like Google, Salesforce, Meta, Intuit and IBM. The businesses provide a certificate when a student finishes the course. Coursera, an online educational service, recently released a report on how microcredentials are preparing students for jobs and affecting higher education schools. It says that 51 percent of colleges in the United States that offer microcredentials also provide school credit and more plan to do so in the next few years. Some colleges include one or more courses leading to microcredentials as part of their usual programs. At Hawaii Pacific University, school leaders say including professional certifications in its business program has sharply increased the number of interested students. How to find the right microcredential? For students, Credential Finder offers a way to search for the right microcredential offerings by field of study or industry. For example, if you are studying information science, you may take Google Data Analytics or an IBM Data Analyst course. If you are working toward a degree in business administration, you may take a Google Project Management course. Your university programs advisors should be helpful in identifying the best certificate programs for your area of study. Be sure to check with your countrys government for more information on special training programs. One example is Ukraine, which is aiming to meet its shortage of skilled workers with its ReSkill UA initiative. It provides help with finding training and employment. How much do microcredentials cost? Many of the course providers permit learners to use the materials for free, but to earn a certification, payment is required. Coursera has a monthly fee of $59 or a yearly fee of $399 for its Coursera Plus membership. For courses that universities offer for credit, the payment will depend on the price set by the school. The languages available in Coursera are English, German, Spanish, French, Russian and Portuguese (Brazilian). Other available languages include Japanese, Korean, Chinese (traditional and simplified) and Arabic. The online education service also provides automatic translation of course materials in Swedish, Greek, Polish, Bahasa Indonesian, Italian, Turkish, Thai and Kazakh. Im John Russell. Jill Robbins wrote this story for Learning English using materials from Coursera, UNESCO and university sources. ____________________________________________ Words in This Story course - n. a series of classes about a particular subject in a school certification n. official approval to do something professionally or legally analytic adj. of or relating to the careful study of something; of or relating to analysis of something cybersecurity n. the state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data, or the measures taken to achieve this automatic adj. of a machine or device. having controls that allow something to work or happen without being directly controlled by a person What do you think of this story? Write to us in the Comments Section. The anchor of the Eagle S oil tanker has been recovered from the bed of the Baltic Sea during an inquiry into the ship's possible involvement in sabotage of maritime energy and communication cables. The EU says the tanker belongs to the so-called Russian shadow fleet. This refers to tankers and other cargo ships that Russia uses to circumvent sanctions imposed for its invasion of Ukraine, for example when transporting oil. Finnish authorities confiscated the tanker's anchor with the help of a specialized Swedish vessel, the Yle public broadcaster reported on Tuesday, citing the Swedish Navy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On December 25, a power line running between Finland and Estonia was damaged in the Gulf of Finland. Damage was also found on four communication cables, including the C-Link1 fibre optic cable between Helsinki and the German port of Rostock, which was already damaged in a similar incident in November. The Cook Islands-flagged Eagle S was stopped by the Finnish authorities shortly after the incidents, impounded and brought to an anchorage east of Helsinki. It is suspected of having deliberately caused the damage with its anchor. However, the anchor was missing when the authorities seized the ship. The Finnish criminal police have launched a sabotage investigation and issued travel bans against crew members, among other things. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Police have identified a man who died Saturday after a shooting in southwest Oklahoma City. The crime also marks the citys first homicide of the year. It was a very sad reality for a friend of the victim and his family, who were shocked by the news. Be thankful when you wake up every morning, Corey Scissorhands Sutter said. Tell a lot of people that you know, that you really care about, you love them because you never know that could be your last time you ever speaking to them. Crime scene near SW 44th Street and County Line Road Saturday, Image KFOR That statement hit close to home for Sutter on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I didnt see that coming, he said. Wyandotte Special Education teacher resigns from teaching post The crime scene near SW 44th Street and County Line Road Saturday marked Oklahoma Citys first homicide of the year. Oklahoma City police said on scene that they were called there for a shooting at a large gathering. Two individuals evidently got into some sort of altercation, Sgt. Rob Robertson with the Oklahoma City Police Dept. said. One of them produced a firearm and shot the other one. The victim, 41-year-old Shawn Lawrence, died on scene. Its a sad reality for Sutter, whos a friend of Lawrence and his family. He said he got to know them while working at a barbershop in Del City about 30 years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive been known him since he was a kid, Sutter said. His mom would come get her hair done. As he moved around over the years, he kept in touch with the family through social media. Sutter said Lawrences young son died about a year and a half ago. So, Sutter hosted a cookout for them to help raise their spirits. We were in the backyard and we just really started chopping up and just talking about old times and current times and everything, he said. Tip leads to arrest of A.Gs Most Wanted, 3 fugitives added to list That would be the last time he saw Lawrence. Sutter said before all the crime scene tape from Saturday, Lawrence also lost his mom. Sutter sent his condolences for what he said is an obviously devastating time for that family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My heart and prayers to the family because theyre a great family, he said. A report from police released Monday said the shooter and everyone else involved were interviewed and released. The case is set to go before the Canadian County District Attorneys office for review and to decide on any future charges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An Oklahoma mother has been charged with child neglect one year after the death of her 4-month-old baby. Tulsa County court records reviewed by PEOPLE show the mother, Savawna Bowen, was taken into custody by the Tulsa Police Department and charged with one count of child neglect. The charges stem from her 4-month-old baby Xylon Adams death in January 2024, according to Local News on 6. Xylon was taken to the hospital last January and diagnosed with a severe brain injury, as well as a broken jaw, ribs, and femur, and died several days later. His father, Daquan White, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, child abuse and child neglect, Tulsa Police previously said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jail records show he's not charged with first-degree murder of a child by injuring, torturing or maiming. White is currently in Tulsa County Jail, though plea or attorney information for him was not immediately clear. Tulsa County Jail Daquan White Daquan White Prosecutors alleged in the neglect charge filed in court this week that Bowen knew about her childs injuries for several days before deciding to take the infant to a local hospital for help, according to Local News on 6. The outlet reported that prosecutors also alleged that Bowen made several concerning internet searches during the days between her childs injuries and taking the child to the hospital, including searching babys femur is sticking out and newborn not being able to move his mouth. 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. Doctors told investigators that Xylon likely wouldve survived the severe injuries if Bowen or White had taken the infant to the hospital sooner, prosecutors also reportedly alleged. Bowen posted a $10,000 bond and has been released from custody, according to court records reviewed by PEOPLE. She is set to be arraigned in Tulsa County District Court on Thursday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle is congratulated by fellow senators after being elected President Pro Tempore of the Senate on Jan. 7. The vote was along party lines during the chamber's organizational day. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY Leaders of the Oklahoma House and Senate were officially elected Tuesday during the Legislatures organizational day. As expected, Rep. Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, was elected as Speaker of the House and Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle was elected President Pro Tempore of the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hilbert was elected with 78 votes and Paxton received 39 votes, both along party lines. Rep. Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, was elected as Speaker of the House on Jan. 7. The vote was along party lines during the chambers organizational day. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice) Hilbert thanked lawmakers for his election and spoke of his priorities, including reducing the usage of cellphones in Oklahoma schools. I am excited and deeply humbled to serve the state of Oklahoma in this capacity, Hilbert said in a statement. This is not a responsibility I take lightly. Our state faces enormous challenges. Many of these wont be solved overnight or even during our time in the Legislature. But our calling is greater: to tackle generational challenges, even if we dont see the solutions come to fruition during our tenure. Paxton stressed a need for unity and cooperation this session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something the state of Oklahoma desperately needs is good leadership, and Ive always said this chamber is the one that is able to do that, Paxton said. He said he wants to pass legislation that will give children more opportunities and entice them to stay in the state. The House also elected Rep. Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, as Speaker Pro Tem. The upcoming legislative session begins Feb. 3 and must end no later than May 30. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX State Superintendent Ryan Walters made an appearance in the rotunda to speak to demonstrators. See our photos: MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) A death investigation is underway after multiple people were found dead in a Madison County house fire, authorities say. The Madison County Coroner said three people were discovered dead inside the residence. The coroner said all three people are believed to be family members who lived at the home. Off-duty Florence police officer injured in crash The coroner said the preliminary examination identified the cause of death, but autopsies will be performed in Huntsville to confirm the findings and establish positive identification for each person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of death is not being released at this time. The State Fire Marshal is investigating the incident. The spokesperson said they received a call about a house fire on Forestbrook Drive around 6:23 a.m. Tuesday. North Alabama grocery store shares how they are managing winter weather food prep According to the spokesperson, when crews got to the house, they reported flames were coming from the front door that quickly spread to the second floor and the attic. Monrovia Fire & Rescue crews were told there were possibly four to five people inside the home and that they are searching for the possible victims. When they arrived on the scene, the spokesperson said there were four cars in the driveway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the initial search of the home, Monrovia Fire & Rescue said the second floor collapsed and two firefighters received minor injuries. The Madison County Sheriffs Office said this is an active death investigation and more information is expected later Tuesday. In a Facebook post, the sheriffs office said that the incident is under investigation by detectives at the Madison County Sheriffs Office in collaboration with the Alabama State Fire Marshal Service. It has been confirmed that there are fatalities involved in the incident. Neighbors were startled over the incident. Ive lived out here for about four years now, and nothing like this has ever happened, Page Magee, a neighbor, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnny Blake lives next door to the home that was on fire. He says his son heard a booming noise Monday night. He was asking if theyre still shooting fireworks, Blake said. And I told him I like no, no. And he was like, nah, I just heard a big bang. Hell just be, you know, there but not there, Blake said. And, as far as her, sometimes shell just, like, sit in the truck with her daughter and just, like, zone out. Other neighbors told Blake the woman even warned them of something happening to her. She said to several people, within the past week or so that, if anything happened to her, she gave him a number to contact, Blake said. Its pretty much self-telling that she was prepared for something to go down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monrovia Volunteer Fire Rescue is expected to release more details sometime Wednesday. Latest Headlines The sheriffs office is asking the public to avoid the area while it is under investigation. A neighbor interviewed by News 19 crews on the scene said her daughter-in-law is the one who called 911 after she heard a loud pop and there was smoke coming from the house. News 19 crews are on the scene of this incident and we will update this story as information is 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 WHNT.com. TOPEKA (KSNT) One person was injured following a house fire in Topeka on Tuesday morning. City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett said in a media release that firefighters were called around 7 a.m. on Jan. 7 to a house in the 2300 block of Southwest Fillmore. Topeka firefighters found smoke coming from the house upon arrival. The Topeka Fire Department (TFD) found that several people escaped the home before they arrived at the scene. One person from the home was taken to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garrett said the cause of the fire was determined to be a faulty furnace. It caused around $5,000 in damage to the home. What areas in Topeka will be cleared of snow first? For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) A new amendment to the Rhode Island General Law will require homebuyers to hire a professional electrician to inspect the homes electrical system if they want to make sure the wiring is in good condition. Beginning Jan. 30, any inspector or contractor who is not a licensed electrician will be prohibited from performing any electrical work on a home, from opening the panel of a homes circuit breaker to examining, altering or physically interacting with the wiring. Joe Walsh, a member of the electrical workers union IBEW Local 99, was a champion of the bill, saying it adds protection for the homebuyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a great value to any inspection, he pointed out. However, Rhode Island Realtors Association President Chris Whitten tells 12 News this new law could cause setbacks for buyers hoping to close on a home. The hardest thing to get over is the timeframe, Whitten said, referencing the 10-day period Rhode Island buyers have to get a home inspection and negotiate with the seller after signing a purchase and sale agreement. He said his overall concern is the time it might take to book an appointment and the associated cost, as prospective homebuyers who choose to get an electrical inspection will have to pay for one, along with a regular home inspection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If they cant, within that 10-day grace period, actually get the electrician in there, then they have to ask the seller to extend that, Whitten explained. The unintended consequences are a major safety concern for that first-time home buyer whos finally got the American dream. According to the Department of Labor, there are 1,938 licensed electrical contractors in Rhode Island who can perform electrical inspections. There is no standardized cost for an electrical inspection, as contractors set their own rates. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Special Coverage & Notices Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In the fading days of the Biden administration, Democrats have proposed a flurry of pardons: for House committee members who investigated the Jan. 6 insurrection, everyone who entered the United States illegally, and anyone who might be prosecuted under the Comstock Act. President Joe Biden has already commuted the sentences of most federal death row inmates. These proposals are driven by fear of what President-elect Donald Trump might do: prosecutions, deportations, executions. But theres another thing Trump promised: to pardon the Jan. 6 insurrectionists. To stop him and start healing our nation Biden should pardon them instead. Pardoning these traitorous enemies of democracy is morally repellent which is exactly why a pardon is necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden certainly can pardon the 900 people convicted on federal charges. A presidents pardon and commutation power is sweeping and can be used right up tothelastday. Pardons could cover people already convicted, on trial, or under investigation, and those who might be just like President Gerald Ford preemptively pardoned Richard Nixon. There could be exceptions for those who committed the worst violence against Capitol police; commutations with parole could ensure reoffenders are swiftly reincarcerated. But a pardon could cover many people who committed terrible crimes and include Trump. An amnesty. This would achieve several things. A political coup for one: Trump cant pardon anyone if Biden beats him to it. And cover for pardoning House officials who investigated the insurrectionists. But it would also serve a higher purpose: helping heal our national trauma. For pardon to come from the man whose election the insurrectionists tried to steal would send a powerful message of forgiveness. The Democrats pardon proposals serve several goals: correcting or preventing injustice, helping friends, advancing a political agenda. But all are also partisan, and none does the other thing pardons can: promote social peace. A general pardon for Jan. 6 insurrectionists, by Biden, would. Biden has been criticized, rightly, for pardoning his own son. But imagine if Trump had pardoned Hunter Biden it matters who pardons whom. Trump pardoning Jan. 6 patriots means further division. Biden pardoning Jan. 6 insurrectionists cuts across partisan expectations, an offer of radical reconciliation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pardons arent a perfect fix. Trump will claim victory, saying it proved there was no crime and invite rioters to the inauguration. But pardons dont mean there was no crime. In fact, its the opposite. Thats a narrative battle Democrats can fight and Biden can narrate the first salvo. Pardons might supercharge the MAGA movements sense of impunity, not only freeing the QAnon Shaman, but unleashing the politics of violent spectacle that the Shaman represents. Yet this fear is curiously at odds with our intuitions about incarcerations effects more generally. Theres little evidence that relentlessly punishing ones enemies, however justified, achieves social peace. Further entrenching mutual antipathies is the likelier result. Parts of MAGA are dangerous already; pardons wont make that worse. Punishment ignores traditions of forgiveness and foregoes the power of possibility: Just imagine if, instead of Ford, President Jimmy Carter had pardoned Nixon. Trump wont respond to moral suasion, but although his chaos breaks barriers, he still operates in a world of constraints. He has withdrawn cabinet nominations and walked away from policies that lacked support. MAGA is no monolith. There are still Republicans and centrists who support political and institutional guardrails, and what Democrats do will either strengthen that support or further weaken it. Thats a practical, political choice that doesnt depend solely on Trump in fact, its irresponsible to pretend that Trumps irresponsibility absolves everyone else from the effects of their actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not going to incarcerate our way out of Trumpism, and we wont counter the corrosive dangers to our democracy by turning the end of each administration into a desperate, Phanariot scrum. Michelle Obama was right about taking the high road, true for campaigning and governing: If we are ever going to normalize our politics again, we have to restore a culture of limits, not hurl bricks through whats left of American politics Overton window. Jan. 6 was a crime, but also political. (If you call it an insurrection, you already understand that.) Many now in federal prison, however misled, were sincere. They believed believe in a man and movement that half of America just voted for in November. Politicalcrimes are what amnesties are for. Amnesties are not about forgetting or declaring that nothing bad happened. They acknowledge terrible things have happened so terrible that political consensus is too fragile to pretend the usual methods arent compromised. The Thirty Years' War devastated Central Europe in the 1600s, killing millions, causing famines, and fanning religious persecution and witch burnings. The treaty ending the war declared a perpetual Oblivion, Amnesty, or Pardon of all that has been committed since the beginning of these Troubles. Troubles was a euphemism, of course. But sometimes, precisely because something is awful and irreconcilably contested, pursuing justice would mean forgoing peace. We are not the only modern country that has experienced division and had to make choices about how to overcome it, and many have had to do it after much worse violence than we faced. Those choices often recognize the priority of social reconciliation alongside, even instead of, formal retributive justice. South Africas Truth and Reconciliation Commission could give amnesties to individuals who acknowledged their participation in crimes during apartheid. Rwanda processed most participants of the genocide through local, village-level meetings called gacaca. And after the death of Francisco Franco, Spain grounded its transition to democracy on a pacto del olvido a pact of forgetting. Every model is different; every model has its failings, its costs and tradeoffs. But every effective model adopted after great violence and division recognizes that while criminal justice and punishment have a role, so do amnesty and forgiveness. And a punishment model seems especially risky and futile if your enemies are about to take power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To all objections, theres one overriding answer: If Biden doesnt do it, Trump will. The criminals of Jan. 6 are going to go free if by Trumps hand, as heroes of triumphal resistance to a deep states failed attempt to crush true patriots. (Or not: Trumps pledge keeps changing, which might be the strongest objection to a preemptive pardon.) What if we took that power away from him? For some, its too much: We shouldnt do an evil thing, even if it would work! Its that feeling of righteous repugnance we have to interrogate: If you are so repelled, so convinced that these hateful traitors deserve prison, that you couldnt abide Biden doing it, then you have become part of the problem too. The insurrectionists are enemies of democracy. Thats why we should pardon them: Your enemy is who you must, someday, make peace with. You do it not because they arent your enemies, but so that they might someday no longer be. You pardon not because their sin isnt real, but because sin is what we forgive. Pardons are going to happen. The only question is early or late, by whom, and what it will mean for our nation. Biden has one final chance to take Trumps most divisive weapon and make it a peace offering. He can use the presidency, one last time, for a gesture of reconciliation before the next president uses it for something else. American democracy is bracing for some seismic shifts. President-elect Donald Trump ran on a platform that included mass deportations of immigrants, investigations and prosecutions of perceived political enemies and presidential pardons for those criminally convicted in connection with the riot and carnage of Jan. 6, 2021. Since Trump left office, the Supreme Court has reshaped the core authority of the presidency by manufacturing immunity for presidents who commit crimes using the powers granted under Article II of the Constitution including control of the military and federal law enforcement. Bear in mind that this massive enhancement of the belt and suspenders of the presidency would not have happened but for Trump and his behavior in trying to overturn the 2020 election. As we approach Trumps historic second term, at least two threats to the Constitution create new cause for concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first is the mythological Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy as its purported dual department heads. Although DOGE amounts to a pure legal fiction at the moment, Republicans in Congress and the mainstream media have been treating it as if its real, debating their plans to slash federal spending by $2 trillion in some detail. A number of GOP senators have already formed a DOGE caucus, which Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) characterizes as bite to partner with the bark of Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency. After she boasted on X about making the porkers squeal, Musk praised her and like-minded legislators for their excellent work thus far. But heres the legal deal: It is Congress that creates federal agencies pursuant to its Article I legislative power not presidents nor private citizens, even if they happen to be the president-elect. The Constitution doesnt even mention federal agencies, with the exception of the Treasury. The panoply of Departments of and Commissions that dot Washington, D.C. are instead the work of federal legislation. When Congress creates agencies, it gives them powers to enforce the law, to adjudicate the law and even to make laws, which are called regulations. Over the past century, there have been many lawsuits challenging the scope of federal agency powers and Congresss prerogative to make agencies in the first place. The Supreme Court has repeatedly struck down portions of congressional statutes creating agencies on constitutional grounds. The core rationale is that the exercise of government power must in some way be tied to the ballot box. Agencies are also bound by the Administrative Procedure Act, which allows litigants to sue federal agencies for overreach, as well as the Freedom of Information Act and numerous other federal laws designed to hold bureaucrats accountable to the rule of law and the voting public. The broad constitutional theory animating the existence of federal agencies is that the heads of agencies are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, so those who populate their ranks are tangentially answerable to the people through their elected bosses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To date, there is no law or even proposed federal legislation creating DOGE. Musk and Ramaswamy are not on track for any federal appointment, yet are already wielding power. Neither man was on the ballot anywhere in the country. Yet they are being treated as if they will fully and legitimately exercise federal power with no constitutional authority or accountability whatsoever. Trump warmed up the public to this idea during his first term by putting his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, in charge of a COVID-19 task force during a pandemic that killed over 1 million Americans. Kushner was not even a federal employee, let alone vetted by the Senate. (He is reportedly on tap to play a pivotal role in the Middle East in the second Trump administration). Nobody really pushed back then, and those in power dont seem to be pushing back now. Bizarrely, most people seem to be pretending that this is normal. The fact that we are not having a collective conversation about the unprecedented and extra-constitutional notion of a de facto DOGE and the endowment of Musk and Ramaswamy with substantial governmental powers without being part of the actual government all of it is deeply disturbing and does not bode well for the integrity of the Constitutions separation of powers and government by the people. The second constitutional threat is that there have been rumblings for weeks about whether the 22nd Amendment authorizes a third term for presidents, meaning (presumably) for Trump. The very fact that this is being debated means that it is being endowed with a modicum of legitimacy. The dizzying gymnastics required to formulate a coherent constitutional argument for a third term are just that legal gymnastics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But lets be crystal clear: The 22nd Amendment states on its face that No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice. Its term limit language was meant to limit presidential terms. For conservatives who claim to adhere to the plain language of the Constitution and eschew judicial activism, that should be the end of the matter. And before Nov. 5, 2024, it was. Both of these radical ideas are now swirling around not because they lie within the Constitutions original design. They are being debated for one reason alone: Donald Trump. For millions of Americans, that might be cause for celebration. The American system of government is broken in myriad ways, so why not just blow it all up? But broken implies that the damage can still be fixed. If Trumps second term manages to put private parties in massive positions of power with zero legal or electoral accountability, and greenlights an end-run around a constitutional amendment designed specifically to rein in emperor-like stretches of power for individual presidents, it might be a place from which we cannot come back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kimberly Wehle is author of the new book Pardon Power: How the Pardon System Works and Why. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. When not advising President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk has spent the past few weeks attempting to influence various European countries politics. His latest target is the British government, going so far as to call for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to step down and for new elections to be held. America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government, wrote the billionaire. Musks embrace of the far right has meant backing parties with authoritarian leanings, including Germanys AfD. But in truth, Musk doesnt want a government-centric authoritarianism like fascism. He wants a world in which business swallows government and becomes the actual ruling class. And to understand the larger narrative, we need to examine the strategy he has taken in the United States. The basis of Musks attack on Britains government is a long-running child exploitation scandal still roiling the country: gangs of men had groomed, trafficked and raped young girls more than a decade ago, almost entirely without being held accountable. Musk accused Starmer of failing to prosecute the gangs while he was the head of the Crown Prosecution Service, even though Starmer brought the first case against one of the gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Musk is not focusing on this horrific injustice because of the systemic failure to protect young girls. Its that the abusers were mostly Pakistani and the girls were mostly white. He has never mentioned numerous similar scandals involving white perpetrators. By reframing it as a conspiracy theory centered on race, Musk is employing the same playbook he used in the United States: spread racist conspiracy theories, turn them into scandals and use those scandals to get people to vote for the far right. Britain is simply his latest target. Musk is not only trying to bring down the U.S. liberal establishment, but hollow out the government itself while strengthening himself and his influence over the country, all without having to face an election. Recently appointed as the co-head of a new Department of Government Efficiency, he wants to massively cut the federal governments budget and workforce. This is not an attempt to be efficient; its an attempt to destroy the regulatory bodies and bureaucracies that will get in the way of complete control of the government. Unlike Trump, Musks influence within the U.S. government is designed to outlast any election. His position allows him to not only cut spending but to expand his businesses influence by extending lucrative defense contracts, such as those involving SpaceX and Starlink. This dual influence over private and public sectors positions Musk as a power broker whose reach may grow unchecked, creating a dependency that transcends electoral politics and concentrates power in his hands. The country got a taste of this power last month, when he played the lead role in tanking a government funding deal that Congress had already struck. On social media, Musk posted a litany of falsehoods about the deal, leading to his fans jamming GOP lawmakers phone lines. They abandoned the deal, and Trump meekly followed. What Musk didnt mention was that the deal would have made it harder for Tesla to expand its investment in China. When a new spending deal was passed a few days later, the new restrictions on U.S. companies investing in China had vanished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk doesnt just want to destroy the American governments infrastructure. He wants to be more powerful than the government itself. And he is well on his way to achieving his goal. While many are rightly concerned about the damage Donald Trump could inflict on democracy, Musks ambitions extend far beyond, threatening to create a system where corporate power eclipses Trump and the government itself. The closest analogs to Musk are robber barons of the Gilded Age like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie. Where Rockefeller and Carnegie dominated steel and oil, Musk controls technologies like space exploration, energy and global communications foundations of modern national security. But Musk goes farther: Unlike the robber barons, who influenced government from the outside, he now holds direct influence within it. This allows him to shape policy to his advantage while embedding his businesses deeper into critical infrastructure. Its important, when thinking of Musks ambitions, to understand that they go farther than most people expect. His desire to go to space and inhabit Mars is not just a dream: He is building the infrastructure to make it happen. The same can be said about Musks ambitions in America. He wants to be more powerful than the president. Which would make him an unelected, technocratic dictator: a figure who wields immense authority without the accountability of democratic oversight. Britain and Germany illustrate how Musks ambitions could extend globally if he secures the same access to power he has in America. In Britain, his Starlink satellites could soon be crucial to rural internet infrastructure, and in Germany, Teslas Gigafactory Berlin is the companys first manufacturing center in Europe. Both nations, under far-right leadership, would find common cause with Musk in dismantling democratic bureaucracies that impose accountability. With those shared goals and his significant business presence along with his demonstrated power to shape the course of conflicts, as seen with Starlink in Ukraine Musks ability to eclipse governmental power in these countries becomes not only plausible but a natural extension of his strategy in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From his actions in Britain to his influence in Germany, Musk is building a framework for domination, using corporate power as his tool to control governments and reshape nations in his image. His goal is not just to dominate America, but to install himself as the unelected ruler of a new global order, wielding authority unchecked by elections or oversight. And so far, he is succeeding. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com NewsNation Chief Washington Anchor and On Balance host Leland Vittert was a foreign correspondent for four years in Jerusalem. He gives you an early look at tonights 7 p.m. ET show. Subscribe to War Notes here. The Trump Doctrine President-elect Donald Trump laid out a vision for an American Empire today in his press conference at Mar-a-Lago: Take over Greenland maybe Canada, too which would give America control of the Arctic. At the very least, economically squeeze Canada. Rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Retake the Panama Canal to box out China. Unleash American energy to end reliance on foreign oil. All hell will break out in the Middle East unless the hostages are released by Hamas. Our buddy Chris Cillizza said last week that Trump got elected because Americans thought America had become weak this is a message of strength. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where President Joe Biden believed much like Obama in leading from behind, Trump promises to make America an indispensable country once again. They laugh at us because they think were stupid, he said at Mar-a-Lago, but were not stupid anymore. No coincidence: Donald Trump Jr. landed in Greenland for a site visit about the same time his dad was speaking check out the pictures he posted on X here. Predictable outrage: Trump knows how to drive the news cycle within an hour, CNN had a banner proclaiming on their screen, Trump not ruling out military force to take Greenland, Panama Canal Fact check: True he did not rule anything in or out he never does. Missing the point: As often happens with anti-Trump media, they miss the message to make Trump appear crazy. Say what you want about style but Trumps first term netted pretty incredible foreign policy wins. Iran backed down. The Abraham Accords brought several Israel/Arab country peace treaties. Putin did not invade Ukraine during Trumps presidency. North Korea did not launch any missiles. Be smart: There isnt a lot of mystery to Trump he is one of the few politicians to tell you EXACTLY what he is going to do. Example: No, he didnt build a big wall that Mexico paid for, but he did effectively close the border. We learned from his first term to take him seriously on policy, but not literally on how he intends to carry it out. Why it matters: Trump is laying out his opening positions for negotiation we should pay attention rather than hyperventilate. Watch tonight: Marc Short, who saw Trump up close and personal during his first term as Vice President Mike Pences chief of staff, peels back the curtain on Trumps plans. President Joe Biden is pictured at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. (Photo by Hu Yousong/Xinhua via Getty Images) Handcuffing Democrats Joe Biden isnt leaving office quietly. Hes emptying out Guantanamo Bay of hardened terrorists. And possibly trading some to Afghanistan for detained Americans. When those terrorists revert back again to terrorism, every Democrat will have to answer for it. He pardoned his son, Hunter Biden. Hes issuing massive bans on oil exploration. He awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to George Soros was it freedom? His friends like Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., continuing to gaslight the public about his health, telling NBCs Meet the Press that Bidens mental acuity is great. The list goes on and its terrible for Democrats. Biden is breaking all the norms of the transition, and perhaps most importantly for his party, making it harder for them to oppose whatever they dont like about Trump. Just look towards the first day of Trumps second term when he (likely) pardons some of the January 6 rioters. The coming response: Biden pardoned Hunter. How can you be angry about the January 6 pardons after Biden pardoned his son, Hunter? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plan: Rachel Maddow speaks for the intellectual liberal elite continuing to beat the same drum. America as we know it is gone. Democracy is finished. Your rights vanished. Well, thats her take, at least. That is part of what we are contending with on this January 6: How do we ever get our democracy back now? Maddow asked. Because we have, in effect, lost it. Read the room: A higher number of Americans are hopeful for this year than they were in 2024. And while MSNBC wants you to think saving democracy is the top issue on everyones minds, its not. Immigration is. Democracy didnt even make the list. Part of the anger undoubtedly stems from the networks sinking ratings following the election. Polling shows Americans are tired of political news. But what if theyre not tired of politics as a whole, but rather the way politics is covered by major networks like MSNBC? For them, its the same old song and dance. A wise elder statesman rightly pointed out, You cant only love the country when you win. Watch tonight: Ana Marie Cox on whether Democrats will distance themselves from Biden in the final days of his presidency. Tune into On Balance with Leland Vittert weeknights at 7/6C on NewsNation. Find your channel here. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily of NewsNation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Prussian statesman Otto von Bismarck famously said that politics is the art of the possible. And there is no greater example of the principle than Donald Trumps return to power. Trump has pulled off the greatest political comeback in American history. It is almost inconceivable that it could be done. But it was. In just two weeks, Trump will take the oath of office to become the 47th president on the same spot where on Jan. 6, 2021 he unleashed an insurrection against the very Constitution he had sworn to protect, preserve and defend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has been adjudicated to have engaged in an insurrection against the Constitution. Yet, the 14th Amendment notwithstanding, he has escaped disqualification. Trump begins his second administration with a sullied reputation. He will become the first president to be twice impeached, to take office as a convicted felon and to have been indicted and charged with serious crimes in four jurisdictions. He will also be the first president to have been successfully sued for defamation in a case involving a sexual assault on a woman in a department store dressing room, with awards by two juries totaling more than $83 million in compensatory and punitive damages. He will be the first president to be adjudicated a fraudster and slapped with a $486 million judgment in a civil suit brought by the unrelenting attorney general of New York State. Trump claimed that the court cases that might have disqualified him were all politically inspired by a weaponized justice system populated with woke Democrats and left-wing prosecutors charges levelled but never proved. No law says only MAGA supporters can prosecute their own. Trump spun the violent criminals convicted and jailed over their role in the assault on the Capitol as no longer outlaws but patriotic martyrs, persecuted political prisoners teed up for a get out of jail free pardon on Trumps first day in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a lawyer and former federal prosecutor, I was trained to revere the sanctity of jury verdicts. As the New York judge who denied Trumps motion to throw out his criminal conviction on 34 felony counts of fraud put it, The significance of the fact that the verdict was handed down by a unanimous jury of 12 of Defendants peers, after trial, cannot possibly be overstated. Indeed, the sanctity of a jury verdict and the deference that must be accorded to it, is a bedrock principle in our Nations jurisprudence. Bedrock or not, in a stunning series of events some calculated and some unexpected Trump was able to avoid jury trial in the other more important cases where the evidence appeared to be overwhelming. In Florida, before the unmistakably friendly and transparently inexperienced trial judge he himself appointed, he was able to escape trial because of an unprecedented and extraordinary ruling that Special Counsel Jack Smith, appointed by the attorney general, had no constitutional authority to bring the case. In the District of Columbia, where his culpability in the criminal events of Jan. 6 appeared beyond a reasonable doubt, he avoided trial through tactics of delay, making trial impossible once he won the election. Give an assist to the partisan and ethically challenged Supreme Court, which delayed its decision for months and granted Trump a qualified immunity nowhere expressed in the text or the original understanding of the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luck played a role. In Georgia, where there was a taped conversation of Trump importuning the Republican secretary of state to find him the necessary votes to tip the state his way, he was able to delay matters because the prosecutor slept with her chief assistant. In New York, even after conviction, Trump has been able to escape a prison sentence because of his electoral victory. Eugene V. Debs ran for president in 1920 from jail, but we obviously cant have an incarcerated sitting president. Trump ran out the clock until he was elected president. Had he failed in the election, he probably would have been tried, convicted and jailed. To any objective observer, Jan. 6, 2021 was another day in American history that will live in infamy. The evidence of insurrection that the American people saw in hours of video footage, with Trump urging the mob to fight like hell, and take back your country, was incontestable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But was it? Within months of the attack, Trump called the day largely peaceful, claimed that the mob had been ushered in by the police and that the protesters were a loving crowd. And people believed it. Later, he blamed the deep state, and of course Nancy Pelosi. Trumps disinformation campaign worked in the fullness of time. By mid-2022, polls showed that fewer than 50 percent of Americans held Trump responsible for Jan. 6. From the founding of the republic, we have held our right to justice sacred, with justice to be administered by the courts, its keepers the judges, not the people. Not today. We have said we are a government of laws, not men. We have said that no one is above the law. Justice must turn on the law and the facts, on what the defendant at bar did or didnt do, not on who he is. Not today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By artifice, luck, disinformation and extraordinary political success, Trump has shown that the only verdict that counts is in the court of public opinion, where emotion, not law, reigns supreme. James D. Zirin, author and legal analyst, is a former federal prosecutor in New Yorks Southern District. He is also the host of the public television talk show and podcast Conversations with Jim Zirin. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 millions of Americans greet the beginning of the second Trump presidency with dread or even panic, one group of people is filled with hope that their lives will be transformed for the better. Many of the insurrectionists who stormed the Capitol four years ago and are still serving time for their crimes believe Donald Trump will deliver them to freedom. After all, what kind of country would this be if you can wind up in prison for nothing more than trying to overthrow the government? That hope for deliverance is no doubt being felt by most, if not all, of the more than 1,500 insurrectionists who have been charged with crimes in connection with the events of Jan. 6, 2021, over 1,250 of whom have pleaded guilty or been convicted at trial. And perhaps no one is putting more stock in a Trump pardon than Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys, who helped plan and coordinate the insurrection. In 2023, Tarrio was given the longest sentence of any participant, 22 years in prison. His lawyer formally requested a pardon from Trump on Monday, writing that Tarrio is a proud American that believes in true conservative values and a young man with an aspiring future ahead of him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has said many times that he intends to pardon the insurrectionists; what we dont know yet is just how far hell go. Will he pardon only those charged with nonviolent offenses? Or will he give a blanket pardon to all of them, as some of his supporters demand? Not even all Republicans are willing to go that far. But a blanket pardon would be the logical conclusion of Trumps four-year attempt to rewrite the history of that horrific day. His strategy on that score was as straightforward as it was effective. He simply said, over and over, that the insurrection was not a crime or a coup but something righteous and gallant. It was a day of love, and the violent thugs who carried it out were patriots and heroes, the ones now jailed for their crimes actually political prisoners. During the campaign, Trump proclaimed that one of his first acts if he won would be to free the Jan. 6 hostages. His rallies began with a recording of jailed insurrectionists singing The Star-Spangled Banner. Through this repetition, he made it clear to every Republican officeholder and media figure that they, too, were expected to repeat the fantasy version of that day, which many dutifully did. Before long the Republican masses believed it after all, it was what they were being told by the public figures they admired and trusted. Even if they didnt all buy the most deranged versions of the right-wing account that the coup was a setup by the FBI, a conspiracy theory touted at times by Tucker Carlson and Kash Patel, Trumps choice to now lead that very agency at least they came around to concluding it was nothing to be worked up about. According to a recent CBS News poll, 72% of Republicans now say they would approve of Trumps pardoning the insurrectionists. According to the Justice Department, 13 leaders of the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers have been charged with seditious conspiracy over the coup attempt. Another 379 have been charged with felonious assault. The rest over 1,000 have been charged with crimes that amounted to being part of the riot, acts like unlawful entry and civil disorder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump could decide to pardon only those convicted of nonviolent offenses. But that wouldnt provide quite the exoneration not just of them, but of Trump himself that he has really claimed. If Trump leaves out the violent criminals in his pardons, it would mean acknowledging that there was, in fact, an extraordinary amount of violence. A blanket pardon, on the other hand, would sew up the narrative as he would prefer: The election was stolen from him, then his supporters protested, then they were persecuted for exercising their constitutional rights, and in the end he liberated them. So will he pardon Tarrio, and along with him Stewart Rhodes, the leader of the Oath Keepers, who was sentenced to 18 years in prison after he was convicted of seditious conspiracy for his role in orchestrating the insurrection? Will he do the same for Daniel D.J. Rodriguez, who was sentenced to 12 years for assaulting police officers with a fire extinguisher and a wooden pole and drove a stun gun into the neck of a Capitol Police officer? How about Peter Schwartz, who assaulted officers with a chair and pepper spray? Or Thomas Webster, who wielded a flagpole in the attack and ripped a gas mask off an officers face? Theres little reason to believe Trump thinks anyone involved in the insurrection did anything wrong and should suffer consequences; they were there serving his cause, so they must be blameless. And there is precedent in Trumps record for a blanket pardon: On his way out of office four years ago, he pardoned or commuted the sentences of a boatload of hoodlums who had committed crimes either on his behalf or in his employ. Most important of all, blanket pardons would be the completion of Trumps attempt to turn the insurrection from a failure into a success. Indeed, one might consider it that way already. Trump and his acolytes tried to overturn an election by various criminal means, and in the end they got what they wanted, even if it took four years. Trump will now return to the White House in triumph. All thats left is to wipe away the consequences for those who tried to put him there through violence. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Some pundits have referred to Vice President Kamala Harris presiding over the certification on Monday of her own defeat in the race for president in 2024 as awkward or difficult. But, while the task might not be pleasant, this is not an accurate description. Her position was hardly unique in American history. A better description for it would be a glorious manifestation of Americas strength and its trust in institutions and laws rather than personalities. Long may it continue as an American tradition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The peaceful transfer of power should never be taken for granted nor treated lightly. It was severely tarnished four years ago as a mob entered the Capitol and tried to disrupt the proceedings of Joe Bidens certification as the winner of the 2020 election. That displayed how fragile it is. The nation owes a debt of gratitude to then-Vice President Mike Pence, who calmly carried on with that certification, even though the building had just been cleared of angry protesters, some of whom had chanted that he should be hanged. That decision was not awkward. It was courageous. In a speech in 2021, Pence said some in his own party suggested that I possessed the authority to reject or return electoral votes certified by the states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the Constitution provides the vice president with no such authority before the joint session of Congress, he said. And the truth is, theres almost no idea more un-American than the notion that any one person could choose the American president. The presidency belongs to the American people and the American people alone. Various members of Congress had objected to election results in previous elections. Vice President Al Gore had ruled as out of order objections from some members of his own party to the contested count in Florida in 2000. But none of these had previously been made under the threat of mob violence. Since 2020, the Electoral Count Act has been changed to require one-fifth of Congress, not just one member, to raise objections to election results. But that wasnt necessary on Monday. We hope it never will be again. George Washington deserves credit for establishing the peaceful transfer of power as a part of the American tradition. While he wasnt on the ballot in 1796, Washington had decided to voluntarily step aside after two terms as chief executive, a notion virtually unheard of at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American painter Benjamin West told Americas minister to Great Britain of Britains King George IIIs reaction to Washingtons decision. He said the king told him this decision placed (Washington) in a light the most distinguished of any man living, and that he thought him the greatest character of the age. That magnanimous decision has since become a key part of Americas greatness in the world. American politicians have, at times, struggled with this notion of placing country above self-interest. Even in the most recent election, some candidates for lesser offices have refused to concede. We hope this never becomes commonplace. As we have said before, without trust in elections, democracy is in peril. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a video message before Mondays certification, Harris said her duty to preside over the electoral count on Monday was 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 should be applauded for doing so, and Americans should be grateful to Mike Pence for ensuring that her act was not reinstating a tradition, but carrying it on in an unbroken line to the earliest days of the republic. On Dec. 10, the solicitor general filed two briefs in climate change cases, supporting a continuation of a chaotic flurry of state climate change litigation across the country. Strikingly absent from each solicitor general brief is any effort to assert the peculiar interests of the United States government. Yet, that is the solicitor generals one job when it is asked by the U.S. Supreme Court to file a brief in a case where the United States is not a party. They had one job, and they failed to do it. This failure exposes the weakness of the Biden administrations position supporting the climate change plaintiffs. And the absence of any effort to consider several key federal interests leaves the door wide open for a persuasive and influential amended brief from the incoming Trump administration solicitor general next January. That corrective brief can be accurately stylized as simply addressing fatal errors of omission necessitating an alternative conclusion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the U.S. Supreme Court invites the solicitor general to file a brief in this case expressing the views of the United States as the court did last June in both Alabama et al. v. California et al. and in the related petitions for certiorari in Sunoco LP v. City and County of Honolulu and Shell PLC v. City and County of Honolulu it usually does so with the anticipation and out of an interest in understanding the peculiar interests of the sovereign in cases where the sovereign interests might be implicated. The primary issue in both cases is whether federal law should preclude the initiation and continuation of climate change litigation in state courts based on novel theories of public nuisance, consumer fraud, and other creative claims. These special concerns of the United States usually include issues of separation of powers, national power or the need for nationwide uniformity, the effective functioning of the federal government and its agencies, potential implications of a case on national security or other major federal policies, statutory interpretation to protect the interests of legislatures, Dormant Commerce Clause protection or free trade federalism and the flow of commerce among the states, budgetary implications, and the like. When the court asks the solicitor general to file, it does not usually care to receive or expect just another set of lawyers repeating arguments that any private lawyers could make and that indeed the private lawyers are already making in a case. Yet, that is just about all the court got in the two solicitor general briefs filed this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goals for a solicitor general brief concluding these state cases should continue would seemingly include comforting the court that ruling that way would not harm the governmental interests of the United States. For example, you would expect that a brief of this sort would include a discussion of why allowing a multitude of cases across a multitude of states in an area of transboundary pollution that would normally be controlled by national policy does not usurp federal legislative or executive power and why. There is not a whisper of that in the briefs. Instead, the solicitor general brief in the Honolulu case, for example, only focuses on claims of a non-final judgment and claims of the lack of a circuit split things perfectly well covered by the other briefs. Similarly, the brief in the Alabama case simply doubles down on procedural arguments made by the parties. Normally, we would assume that the Supreme Court expects in solicitor general briefs to hear a voice that only the United States can offer, as the United States, when the court reaches out and requests to hear from the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet conspicuously absent from these amicus briefs is even an utterance about national security, foreign policy, or energy security concerns that might be implicated by these cases. Again, you would expect that the United States would want to assure the court that it need not concern itself with these matters. We would expect that the United States as amicus, and as the one in the best position to understand these potential implications, would offer assurances and express an official view of the United States that, if the court allows the state climate change cases to proceed, there will be no identifiable risk to these fundamentally governmental, and uniquely federal, concerns. In a way, the absence of even a nod to these potential concerns is a perfect opening for the Trump administrations solicitor general to seek leave to file amended briefs in each docket immediately upon taking office. By granting cert in the Honolulu case, the U.S. Supreme Court has a chance to correct a Hawaii state supreme court decision that oversteps the limits of state authority, trampling on federal prerogatives to set energy policy and control interstate and global pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has a chance to protect the separation of powers and preserve the uniformity of national environmental policy through the proper interpretation of the Clean Air Act. It can shield the national security of the United States which could be weakened by lawsuits that disproportionately affect domestic energy producers and impose costs on American consumers. Issues like energy policy and sensitive decisions about geopolitical issues of climate change require complex balancing decisions that are exclusively within the purview of Congress and federal policymaking authorities not state and federal courts. Thus, shutting down the state cases helps to prevent state courts from handcuffing the federal government as it seeks to negotiate balanced bargains on the international stage that will actually advance climate change solutions. These and other defenses of the interests of the United States government have yet received no consideration in the existing, just-filed solicitor general briefs and thus are the perfect arguments counseling reconsideration of the conclusions in those briefs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The complete absence of consideration within Bidens solicitor general briefs of any of the sovereign federal interests for which the opinion was requested in the first place is all the Trump Administration should need to explain filing a new brief with a different conclusion. The new briefs can simply begin by noting that the prior administrations briefs were under-analyzed because of their failure to even consider let alone understand the multitude of adverse impacts on the interests of the United States if these state climate change lawsuits can continue unchecked by the court. Donald J. Kochan is a professor of Law and the executive director of the Law & Economics Center at George Mason Universitys Antonin Scalia Law 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 The Hill. As we count down the days till President-elect Donald Trump takes office, efforts are already underway to enact policies on Day 1. We discuss the implications for Utah and how the weighty topic of immigration might impact the upcoming session. America First Legal, run by Stephen Miller, a Trump adviser, sent 250 jurisdictions across the U.S. letters, warning them against interference of Trumps deportation policies. How will Utah respond? Cowley: After an electoral landslide nationwide, Trump and fellow Republicans feel the wind at their backs to implement the policies they campaigned on, including radical changes to immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Historically, Utah has had a nuanced approach to immigration policies. It was Utahs own Orrin Hatch who sponsored the DREAM Act. Utahns support a compassionate approach enforcing the rule of law while preserving families and acknowledging immigrants contributions to our economy and communities. It is incumbent upon Utahs federal delegation to, at long last, pass meaningful immigration reform while honoring this ethos. Pignanelli: Voters are tired of endless talk without real progress. The immediate agenda is clear: secure the border, deport criminals, and sort out the rest from there. Brett Buerck, CEO Majority Strategies Americans are proud descendants of those who immigrated (voluntarily or involuntarily) and created this incredible country. (Even indigenous peoples ancestors were travelers.) This shared heritage yields interesting results in various surveys. Pew Research reveals 87% of Americans believe highly skilled immigrant workers should be given priority to stay in the United States. Almost 80% support legal migrants who can fill the labor shortage. Yet, the National Immigration Forum and the Bullfinch Group demonstrate over two-thirds of Americans of all political stripes want violent criminals and those with deportation orders to be immediately expelled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll documents that 86% of Utahns expect immigrants lacking permanent legal status who committed a crime to be deported. This includes an overwhelming majority of Hispanic, Democrat and Kamala Harris voters. Whether through executive order or congressional action (which stalled for too long), bipartisan support exists to remove the dangerous visitors. How federal and state officials conduct this endeavor will demonstrate their ability to succeed with a clear mandate. In 2010, Utah elected officials and business and religious leaders came together to support the Utah Compact, a set of five principles surrounding immigration. What is in the Utah Compact, and does it conflict with Trumps policies? Cowley: A key tenet of the compact is not separating families. If criminal immigrants have families in the Beehive State, their deportation may run afoul of this value. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Utah economy benefits from immigrants in the workforce, from agriculture to manufacturing to high-skilled tech jobs. Utah continually wins awards as the best state for business, in part because of the contributions from immigrants. If Trump policies cause a chilling effect on these laborers coming to Utah, state revenues will sink, even more than they are this year. This can only be counteracted by Congress making legal immigration more attainable. At the center of the compacts guiding principles are both an acknowledgement of the rule of law and call for compassion. These are not diametric principles. Focusing on arresting criminals, rather than engaging in a wholesale roundup of all immigrants living in the country illegally, is an act of compassion toward those abiding by our laws and contributing to society. Remember, Utah Republicans have not shown the same outpouring of support for Trump as many other red states an important fact for the Utah Legislature and federal delegation to be mindful of. Pignanelli: I enjoy multiple reasons to be proud of my state and our people. High on that list is the Utah Compact. The National Immigration Forum survey asked 1,200 adults: In accordance with American values, family unity, respect for human dignity, and protection for the persecuted must remain key priorities as the government increases border security and immigration enforcement. Seventy-five percent of Americans, including Republicans, agreed. The compact encompasses these elements. Utah is ahead of the curve to guide officials in developing correct immigration policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Utah House of Representatives outlined their framework for addressing immigration in a press conference Monday. What can we expect to see this session on immigration? Cowley: The deficient federal response to curtail the influx of illegal immigration on our southern border has left Utah leaders to deal with the consequences. On Monday, the Legislature unveiled their plans to crack down on criminal behavior of immigrants without legal status. They will address the surge of criminal activities including fentanyl trafficking, accidents from unlicensed drivers, squatters and property damage, gang violence preying on youth and more. The net result, intentional or not, will be increasing the pool of convicted criminals that may get deported under the Trump regime. From an operational perspective, once these criminals are incarcerated in Utah jails and prisons, it will require coordination with state agencies to release them to ICE, should it come to that. Pignanelli: This press conference, conducted by House leadership, may have been the most efficient media event in history. Lawmakers and other officials crisply identified legislation and policies that will be pursued in the upcoming session to foster changes in immigration, especially targeting criminals. Members of Congress are advised to watch how such communications should be conducted. To say that President-elect Donald Trump has a lot of plans for his second term would be a gross understatement. He has vowed to implement the largest deportation operation in American history, secure the U.S.-Mexico border and negotiate a peace settlement between Ukraine and Russia. Yet for Trump, all of these items may be minor when compared to one other issue: resolving the North Korea nuclear conundrum. Taking Pyongyangs nuclear program off the board is Trumps proverbial white whale, a feat that none of his predecessors managed to accomplish. Members of Trumps inner circle told Reuters in late November that the next president was already talking about restarting the personal diplomacy with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that had begun during his first term. Talk is one thing, reality another. If Trump enters office thinking he can easily resurrect his relationship with Kim, then hes going to set himself up for disappointment. Resolving the North Korean nuclear issue was hard five years ago, but it will be even harder today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his first term, Trump was able to push for personal engagement with North Koreas head of state despite resistance among his national security advisors. This was the right move at the time. After all, bottom-up attempts by the Bush and Obama administrations to negotiate with Pyongyang proved to be both laborious and unsuccessful. After nearly a year of fire-breathing rhetoric and talk about a bloody nose strike that would scare Pyongyang into talks, Trump opted to gamble on direct diplomacy. This was partly because his other options more economic sanctions or military action ranged from ineffective to disastrous, and partly because the South Korean president at the time, Moon Jae-in, was able to convince Trump that a direct channel of communication to Kim might be the key to cementing a nuclear deal of historic importance. Despite three Trump-Kim meetings, face-to-face diplomacy failed to produce anything over the long-term. While Trump managed to get North Korea to suspend missile tests for a year no small accomplishment given its past activity the flashy summitry ultimately crashed and burned. In the end, Trump and Kim, their personal chemistry notwithstanding, were unable to come to terms Trump, pushed by his hawkish advisors, advocated for North Koreas complete denuclearization; Kim, meanwhile, was only willing to demobilize his main plutonium research facility at Yongbyon. U.S.-North Korea diplomacy has been dead ever since. The Biden administrations overtures to Pyongyang over the last four years have been repeatedly slapped down, apparently a consequence of what the North Korean leadership views as a lack of seriousness on the part of Washington as well as U.S. attempts to solidify a trilateral military relationship between the United States, South Korea and Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In other words, on Jan. 20, the perennial North Korean nuclear problem will be as thorny as ever. And probably thornier: Kim is far less desperate for a nuclear agreement and an end to U.S. sanctions now than he was during Trump's first administration. First, Kim hasnt forgotten his previous meetings with Trump. He sees the summitry of 2018 and 2019 as a waste of time at best and a personal humiliation at worst. This shouldnt be a surprise; the North Korean dictator staked significant capital on negotiating an agreement to lift U.S. sanctions and to normalize Pyongyang-U.S. relations. His entreaties failed on both accounts. Three summits later, U.S. sanctions remained intact and U.S.-North Korea relations remained in their usual acrimony. Kim will be more cautious this time around. "We have already explored every possible avenue in negotiating with the U.S., he said in November , adding that the result had been more U.S. aggression. And in a December speech, he promised to deliver the toughest counteractions against the U.S., an expression of his commitment to resisting what he perceives as a hostile bloc underwritten by Washington. The geopolitical environment has evolved as well. Back in 2018-2019, North Korea was isolated, and the suspension of U.S. sanctions was seen as a critical to its economic growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now Putin's war in Ukraine has provided the Kim regime a golden opportunity to diversify its foreign relations away from China by cozying up to Moscow , not least by sending thousands of North Korean troops to the Ukraine-Russia front lines. Russia, which used to be a partner in the United States desire to denuclearize North Korean, is now using North Korea as a way to frustrate Americas grand ambitions in East Asia. For Kim, the advantages of his relationship with Russia are equally clear: Putin needs arms and men; Kim needs cash and military technology. And thanks to Russias veto at the U.N. Security Council, additional sanctions are a pipe dream for the foreseeable future, while those on the books already are meekly enforced. As long as the Russia-North Korea relationship continues as its current pace, Trump will be hard pressed to bring the North Koreans back to the negotiating table. None of this is to suggest that Trump shouldnt try another diplomatic foray with North Korea. Regardless of the criticism he received at the time, Trumps decision to shake things up and go straight to the source was an admirable attempt to manage an issue that has defied U.S. presidents for more than three decades. Yet if Trump wants a second roll of the dice, he needs to keep a healthy dose of skepticism front-of-mind. Given the continued improvement of North Koreas nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, any agreement the United States signs with the Kim regime will be less impressive than it could have been in 2019 assuming we get an agreement at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daniel R. DePetris is a fellow at Defense Priorities and a foreign affairs commentator for the Spectator. 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. Donald Trumps election victory in November brought him praise and congratulations from leaders and governments around the world. One of the more surprising messages appeared in a post on X from the Taliban in Afghanistan. The countrys foreign ministry expressed hope that the president-elects impending return to the White House would allow both nations to open a new chapter of relations based on mutual engagement. The groups overture reaffirmed the resounding futility of the longest war in Americas history. For 20 years from a month after the 9/11 attacks until summer 2021 the U.S. military fought and failed to vanquish the Taliban. More than 2,400 troops lost their lives in Afghanistan, along with almost 4,500 killed in Iraq. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The men and women who survived the forever wars carried home the fraught question of whether their fallen comrades died in vain. Trump has tapped three of them for high-level positions in his incoming administration. Vice President-elect JD Vance and Tulsi Gabbard, Trumps nominee for director of national intelligence, deployed to Iraq. His pick for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. The trios stated aversion to U.S. intervention abroad, including in Ukraine, traces back to their misgivings about the forever wars. Two years before winning election to the Senate in 2022, Vance wrote, I left for Iraq in 2005, a young idealist committed to spreading democracy and liberalism to the backward nations of the world. I returned in 2006, skeptical of the war and the ideology that underpinned it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance, Gabbard and Hegseth frame Trumps America first isolationism as a principled corrective to the countrys post-9/11 military misadventures. But their opposition to U.S. support for Ukraine lays bare a worldview without a moral compass. All three appear oblivious to a dark irony: After years of claiming that Americas political and military establishment betrayed their generation of veterans, they soon will assume the role of betrayer, abandoning Ukrainian troops to their fate. I reported from Afghanistan for three years starting in 2011 and Ive covered the war in Ukraine since shortly before Russian troops and tanks crossed the border in early 2022. In terms of U.S. involvement, an obvious distinction separates the forever wars from Russias full-scale invasion, one that Trump and his team prefer to omit when they talk of shrinking Americas military presence overseas. U.S. leaders sent hundreds of thousands of troops to topple the regimes in Afghanistan and Iraq and to occupy both countries. They have shipped only weapons, equipment and ammunition to aid Kyiv in its just war of self-defense. There is little comparison between Americas role then and now even if Vance, presenting himself as anti-war, conveyed that false equivalence on the Senate floor last spring after Congress passed a $61 billion funding package for Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So Ill offer a reminder that no U.S. troops are fighting (or dying) in Ukraines struggle against Russian President Vladimir Putin, who figures to emerge as the greatest beneficiary of Americas retreat from the world. If Trump withholds assistance from Ukraine to force President Volodymyr Zelensky toward a cease-fire dictated by Moscow, the move will prove anti-war only in the sense that over time Ukrainian troops will lose the capability to defend their homeland. Countless more will die at Putins hands. In military parlance, Got your six means Ive got your back. The culture of the U.S. armed forces teaches troops to always protect one another, an ethos they uphold with soldiers of other nations as in Afghanistan and Iraq who patrol alongside them as partners. Since Trump avoided military service during the Vietnam War, Vance, Gabbard and Hegseth could draw on their experience in uniform to enlighten him about the concept of mutual vigilance. They could seek to persuade him that America bears a moral obligation to protect a democratic ally invaded by a fascist dictator and that fulfilling its obligation enhances the safety of Ukraine, America and the entire West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They instead will turn their backs on Kyiv, abetting a national act of desertion that will compound rather than redress the tragedy of the forever wars. Ive interviewed dozens of veterans over the past decade who doubted the purpose of their service in those ill-conceived, ill-fated conflicts. In 2019, while reporting a story on moral injury, I spoke with former Army Sgt. Nate Vass, who deployed to Afghanistan in 2006. He finished his 16-month combat tour beset by post-traumatic stress disorder and deep disillusionment about a war he called misguided. I feel a sense of bitterness about all of it, he told me. He mentioned friends killed overseas and others who died by suicide after coming home. For what? The specter of betrayal that shadows so many of the countrys 21st-century veterans arises, in large part, from the absence of clarity about why four successive presidents including Trump sent them to Afghanistan and Iraq. No such strategic or moral haze obscures the reasons for supporting Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The countrys brave fight to preserve its freedom, territory, culture and national identity exemplifies the democratic ideals that define the West ideals that Vance, Gabbard and Hegseth revere in word but scorn in deed. Their forsaking of Ukraine will leave more blood on Americas conscience, if not their own. Martin Kuz is an independent journalist covering Ukraine. He writes at Reporting on Ukraine. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 turmoil surrounding South Koreas impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is bitterly disillusioning to U.S. officials and think-tank influencers who had thought Seoul and Washington were getting along famously. Americans were just as shocked as Koreans when Yoon declared martial law on Dec. 3, as well as when the assembly voted down the martial law decree and then impeached President Yoon by four more votes than the requisite two-thirds of its 300 members. The prospect of Koreas constitutional court either approving or disapproving the impeachment, ousting Yoon as president or reinstating him with the authority that he lost with his impeachment, inspires scenarios ranging from civil war to business as usual. As much as the State Department and Pentagon wish the Korean crisis would calm down enough to ensure the Korea-U.S. alliance emerges unscathed, the bond is in danger, with no chance of reconciliation between Yoons conservative People Power Party (PPP) and the left-leaning Minju (or Democratic Party). The Minju, the dominant force in the National Assembly, spearheaded Yoons impeachment and now is pressuring the badly scarred PPP regime and the courts to dispose of Yoon. His foes want him imprisoned for insurrection the reason a district court in Seoul issued a warrant for his arrest at the behest of the high-level Corruption Investigation Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Serving the warrant, though, was another matter. First the investigators had to breach thousands of Yoon sympathizers blocking the way, and then, once they got into Yoons compound, his security people refused to let them near him. Initially, the investigators gave up and left, resolving to come again in a portent of long-term civil unrest. Finally, after the police refused to help serve the warrant, the investigators got another warrant as Yoon stood fast. All this as Antony Blinken, shoring up U.S.-Korean relations in his last foreign foray as secretary of State, met with leaders of both sides. In Washington, the deepest concern is that the crisis will go from bad to worse. The worst-case scenario would be for civil strife to break out in Seoul and other cities, as hundreds of thousands take to the streets while the court delays ruling on Yoons impeachment. Six of the courts nine judges must uphold the impeachment motion for Yoon to lose his job permanently. As the court took up the impeachment motion, three of its nine seats were vacant. Needing only a simple assembly majority to impeach the acting president, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, a former ambassador to the U.S. who had automatically taken over from Yoon, the Minju-led assembly quickly impeached him after he refused to approve all three selections. Armed with impeachment as a weapon, the Minju-led majority was hardly appeased after the new acting president, Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, who serves as the finance minister, accepted two of the three Minju choices for the court. Minju leaders are holding over Chois head the threat of also impeaching him, along with other Cabinet ministers, badly crippling the governments normal functions. In a spiraling standoff, it is difficult to see any chance of reconciliation between left and right. Assuming that Minju adherents will never accept an adverse judicial outcome, their supposedly non-violent candlelight vigils may well erupt into violence fueled by extremists in a deeply divided society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For official Washington, the battle over Yoons impeachment spells the end of painstaking efforts to reverse the anti-Americanism of the previous president, Moon Jae-in, a leftist who dreamed of reconciliation with North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un. Moon had clung to the fantasy ever since meeting Kim at Panmunjom in April 2018, two months before President Trump and Kim staged their historic summit in Singapore. Moon persisted in imagining a deal with North Korea even as Kim refused to see him after Trump walked out of his second summit with Kim in Hanoi in February 2019 when Kim refused to agree to stop producing nuclear warheads. In vain hopes for North-South reconciliation, Moon jeopardized the U.S.-Korea alliance by blocking joint exercises of U.S. and South Korean troops. American defense strategists were overjoyed when Yoon, after narrowly defeating Minju leader Lee Jae-young in 2022, endorsed large-scale U.S.-Korean war games. But the vision has vanished with Yoons impeachment. America, falling back on cliches, insists the bond between the U.S. and South Korea remains ironclad, but worries the allies will never renew the kind of exercises seen as essential for training for defense against the North. Also at stake is trilateral cooperation fostered by President Biden when he got Yoon and Fumio Kishida, then Japans prime minister, to rendezvous at Camp David in August 2023, laying the groundwork for a permanent bond among the three nations. The so-called Spirit of Camp David infused what resembled a de facto three-nation alliance despite the legacy of Japanese colonial rule over the entire Korean peninsula from 1910 to 1945. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These days, no one is harking back to Camp David. Instead, the Americans give the impression of support for whoevers the acting president, praying that the Minju will not go on in driving out one government leader after another. The fear of candlelight vigils devolving into violence raises the specter of military and police forces diverting from defense against North Korea, as in the era before the democracy movement of 1987 that led to presidential elections every five years. The mass protests that resulted in the impeachment, ouster and jailing in 2017 of Park Geun-hye, daughter of the long-ruling dictator Park Chung-hee, assassinated in 1979 were largely peaceful. With conservatives fed up with the Minjus relentless efforts at stifling the government, however, this time may be different. The Minju, led by Lee Jae-myung, former mayor of Seongnam City south of Seoul and former governor of Gyeonggi Province surrounding the capital, promises to undo many of the gains achieved during the first two and a half years of Yoons administration. If the constitutional court were to approve Yoons impeachment, Koreans would vote for a new president in a snap election 60 days later. Lee, avoiding charges for which he faces trial in real estate and financial scandals, would almost certainly run again. Reviving Moons search for a deal with the North, Lee could be expected to block U.S.-South Korean joint exercises while looking for an end-of-war agreement if not a peace treaty replacing the Korean War armistice. Of course, the Norths Kim Jong Un would stick to his demands for an end to the U.S.-South Korean alliance and withdrawal of Americas 28,500 troops while refusing to give up his precious nukes and missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This worst-case scenario, however, does not have to happen. Trump, now president-elect, has indicated he would like to talk again to Kim, with whom he professed to have fallen in love at their Singapore summit. He has let it be known that he might not be averse to pulling out U.S. troops while demanding the South pay far more than the $1.1. billion a year agreed on as its share of U.S. defense costs in 2025. Its possible, if Lee were to become president, that he would want to maintain close ties with the U.S. for the sake of mutual interests ranging from economic to cultural as well as military. In Washington, a return to normalcy would come as a relief regardless of whos in charge in Seoul. The current crisis has been a nightmare from which the Americans would hope to awaken and discover the alliance, at least, endures as it has ever since the Korean War. Donald Kirk has been a journalist for more than 60 years, focusing much of his career on conflict in Asia and the Middle East, including as a correspondent for the Washington Star and Chicago Tribune. He is currently a freelance correspondent covering North and South Korea, and is the author of several books about Asian affairs. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HONOLULU (KHON2) The journey to becoming a mentor in the Na Kula Alakai program is one that is steeped in the values of leadership, service and community. Whether its guiding the next generation of Hawaii leaders or offering insights that will shape the future, becoming a mentor is a significant responsibility and opportunity. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You For those who want to make a lasting impact in their communities, Alyxandra Loando, Na Kula Alakai Mentor Coordinator for the Hawaii National Guard, provided KHON2.com valuable insights into what it means to take on this role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loandos passion for mentorship is evident. She explained how the Na Kula Alakai program cultivates leadership amongst high school students and provides them with the skills and guidance necessary to excel. She explained on the programs goals and emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for these students to connect with experienced mentors who can help them navigate both academic and personal challenges. For me, mentoring is about creating an environment where individuals feel seen and supported, Loando said. Its about offering guidance but also stepping back and allowing them to experience growth on their own. Mentorship isnt about telling someone what to do; its about empowering them to find their own path while providing them with the tools to succeed. Loando is clear that the mentorship process isnt just one-way. Its not only the mentees who gain from the relationship. Mentors themselves often learn invaluable lessons through their involvement. The connection between mentor and mentee can be transformative for both parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The truth is, Ive learned just as much from my mentees as they have from me, she said. Ive had the opportunity to witness their growth and transformation which only reinforces the value of the mentorship process. The Na Kula Alakai program is designed to foster mutual growth and encourage mentees to develop essential leadership skills. Loando stressesd the importance of finding mentors who are genuinely invested in the success of their students. We look for individuals who are not just willing to give advice, but who also understand the responsibility of being a role model, Loando explained. A great mentor is someone who will listen without judgment, offer thoughtful advice and challenge their mentee to push past their comfort zones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For those considering becoming a mentor for the Na Kula Alakai program, Loando offered a bit of practical advice. The first step is to be open to the experience, she said. Mentoring is not about having all the answers. Its about being available to guide, to listen and to support. If you approach it with a willingness to learn and grow alongside your mentee, it will be a rewarding experience for both of you. Loando also highlighted the importance of understanding the unique challenges that students in the program may face. Many of the participants come from diverse backgrounds and may encounter obstacles related to family, academics or personal identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being a mentor means being patient and compassionate, she explained. Our students often carry a lot of weight on their shoulders. The world isnt always kind, but a mentor can be a beacon of light that helps them navigate their challenges and find solutions. The Na Kula Alakai program is about academic success. But, more importantly, its also about fostering resilience and self-confidence. Loando emphasized the significance of teaching students how to face adversity and persevere through difficult circumstances. Leadership is built through overcoming challenges, Loando said. When we mentor, we need to give our students the space to fail and learn from their mistakes. Thats where true leadership begins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond personal development, the program also seeks to cultivate a sense of community and responsibility. As Loando explained, mentorship goes beyond one-on-one interactions. It also builds connections that extend to the broader Hawaii community. When youre a mentor in this program, youre not just impacting one individual. Youre shaping the future of Hawaii, she said. The ripple effects of mentorship extend far beyond the mentor-mentee relationship. We are creating leaders who will serve their communities, advocate for positive change and inspire others to do the same. Being a mentor in the Na Kula Alakai program requires time, patience and a deep commitment to the growth and well-being of the mentees. Loando acknowledges that mentoring can be demanding, but she also believes it is an experience that is worth the investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The impact that a mentor can have on a young persons life is immeasurable, Loando said. Were not just teaching them how to succeed in school; were teaching them how to succeed in life. Loandos advice to potential mentors is clear and simple: If you feel called to help others, this program is for you, she emphasized. You dont need to be perfect or have all the answers. Whats most important is that youre willing to show up, to be present and to offer your support. The Na Kula Alakai program offers a rare opportunity for mentors to make a profound difference in the lives of students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By becoming involved, mentors not only help build the next generation of leaders but also contribute to the enduring values of service and community in Hawaii. Loando encapsulated the essence of mentorship in this program with one final thought: To be a mentor is to be a part of something bigger than yourself. Its about building the future of Hawaii, one leader at a time. Alyxandra Loando The program continues to grow and provide new opportunities for mentors to become involved, share their expertise and leave a lasting legacy. You can watch the full video here. You can click here for more information on Na Kula Alakai. Click here to watch the full interview. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 Whether you have years of experience or just the desire to help, there is a place for you in the Na Kula Alakai program, where both mentors and mentees embark on a shared journey of growth, connection, and leadership. 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 KHON2. School districts in Owensboro, Daviess County and across the region will be closed tomorrow, due to Sundays winter storm. Owensboro Public Schools, Daviess County Public Schools and Owensboro Catholic Schools will all be closed Tuesday, as will districts in Hancock, McLean, Ohio and Muhlenberg counties. Jared Revlett, public information officer for OPS, said officials decided to call off classes Tuesday due to likely poor road conditions in residential neighborhoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres just no way our buses can get into any of the side streets right now, Revlett said. OPS officials called off school shortly before noon Monday. We do try to make a decision as early as we can, so people have time to plan for child care, Revlett said. OPS will have a traditional snow day, with no work for students, Revlett said. School for OPS students is expected to resume Wednesday, Revlett said. DCPS public information officer Maddie Edwards said officials canceled classes for Tuesday, but said the district will have a non-traditional instruction (NTI) day instead. We feel we are prepared to give students a productive day, Edwards said in a written statement. Although we would always prefer in-person, the weather and conditions arent allowing it, so we are using our next best option to engage students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students will have aDCPS@Home day, with elementary students doing work in packets already sent home. Elementary students can also access their assignments online at dcps.org/athome. Middle and high school students will use their school computers to access their assignments through Google Meet. The assignments are also posted at dcps.org/athome. Owensboro Catholic Schools, which uses DCPS buses, will also be closed Tuesday, and will have a non-traditional instruction day. A post on Owensboro Catholics social media says instructions will be emailed to students families from the schools. McLean County Public Schools, Hancock County Public Schools and Muhlenberg County Public Schools will all also be holding NTI days Tuesday. Ohio County Public Schools will be closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owensboro Community & Technical College will be closed, but remote services will be available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., a social media post says. Western Kentucky Universitys Owensboro campus will be closed, but online classes will be held as scheduled. Brescia Universitys and Kentucky Wesleyan Colleges campuses are also closed Tuesday. Eddie Kenny, vice president of external relations at Kentucky Wesleyan, said students are not expected back for the first day of spring semester classes until next week. The campus was closed so roads can improve, Kenny said. Dorms, food service and other student amenities are operating for students who are staying on campus, Kenny said. James Mayse, 270-691-7303, jmayse@messenger-inquirer.com By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) -A federal appeals court on Tuesday upheld an Oregon law banning most secret recordings of oral conversations, rejecting a First Amendment challenge by Project Veritas, a conservative activist group known for using covert recordings against opponents. In a 9-2 decision, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Seattle said the so-called conversational privacy law did not violate Project Veritas' free speech rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also said the law was narrowly tailored to Oregon's significant governmental interest in ensuring that residents know when they are being recorded. The decision reversed a July 2023 rejection of the law by a divided three-judge panel of the same court. Eight judges in Tuesday's majority were appointed to the bench by Democratic presidents, while the dissenting judges and the earlier majority were appointed by Republican presidents. Benjamin Barr, a lawyer for Project Veritas, said the group will appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. He said the decision "leaves undercover journalists with their hands tied in Oregon" by impeding their ability to investigate corruption and work with whistleblowers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barr also said the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution should allow secret recordings "just as robustly as it has long shielded traditional practices, like safeguarding the venerable reporter's notepad." Dan Rayfield, Oregon's new attorney general, said in a statement he was pleased the court recognized the recordings ban as "an important safeguard" for people's right to privacy. Dating from 1959, Oregon's law contains exceptions that allow recording during a felony that endangers human life, and recording a law enforcement officer performing official duties. Project Veritas sued in 2020, saying the law made it impossible in Portland, the state's largest city, to record protests about racial injustice following the killing that May of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group frequently publishes edited recordings that portray liberal organizations and media negatively. Critics have called its tactics deceptive. RECORDINGS NOT 'INDISPENSABLE' During oral arguments last June, Barr told the appeals court that secretly recorded conversations could have a big impact. He pointed to a 2005 "Access Hollywood" video of President-elect Donald Trump boasting graphically about forcing himself on women, which drew wide attention during the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign. Oregon countered that the law did not discriminate based on content, and that recording private conversations was not constitutionally protected "expressive conduct." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Writing for Tuesday's majority, Circuit Judge Morgan Christen warned of the risk of secret recordings being shared across the internet, or selectively edited to create audio "deepfakes" where people appear to say things they never said. Christen, an appointee of former Democratic President Barack Obama, said the law left Project Veritas journalists ample means to go undercover and report what they see and hear, as journalists have done for centuries. "Powerful exposes authored by people like Nellie Bly, Gloria Steinem, and John Howard Griffin clearly demonstrate what our court has long recognized: 'hidden mechanical contrivances' are not 'indispensable tools' of newsgathering," the judge said. Circuit Judge Kenneth Lee, appointed during Trump's first White House term, dissented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Oregon's "grossly overbroad" law imperiled journalists' ability to report newsworthy events, whether involving conversations conducted loudly in public, abuses of power or "the privileged behaving badly." The case is Project Veritas et al v. Schmidt et al, 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 22-3527. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi, Leslie Adler and Lincoln Feast.) PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) Oregon homeowners living in certain areas at high risk of wildfire will face stricter building codes and mandates to reduce vegetation on their properties under new wildfire hazard maps unveiled Tuesday. The release of the maps follows a record-breaking wildfire season last year and firestorms in 2020 that killed nine people and destroyed thousands of homes. The state-developed maps which will not affect homeowners insurance rates, under Oregon law create new rules for those living in the most fire-prone areas that also border wildlands such as forests or grasslands. The provisions impact 6% of the state's roughly 1.9 million tax lots, a reduction from an earlier version developed in 2022 but retracted after homeowners raised concerns that it would increase insurance premiums. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wildfire seasons are growing longer and more intense due to climate change, and Oregon isn't the only state grappling with how to manage the risk. Washington state and Colorado have also recently moved to address fire risk in their communities, and a new rule announced in California last week will require insurance companies to provide policies in high-risk wildfire areas in order to continue doing business in the state. In Oregon, the new building and so-called defensible space codes will affect only about 106,000 tax lots. The building codes will require new construction in high hazard areas in the wildland-urban interface to have fire-resistant features, and will only apply to an existing home if people make certain upgrades, such as fully replacing a roof or siding, said Mark Peterson, spokesperson for the state department overseeing the Building Codes Division. Experts say the maps are an important step in identifying and protecting fire-prone areas as the state continues to contend with record-breaking wildfires. Since 2020, blazes even burned up homes on the Oregon coast, just inland from the Pacific Ocean in areas once thought almost immune to fire because of a wetter, cooler climate. After 2020, we can't pretend anymore that this is just an issue for southwest Oregon and central Oregon, Andy McEvoy, a faculty research assistant at Oregon State Universitys College of Forestry who worked on the map, told The Associated Press. All of those events really cried out for a statewide a truly statewide strategy to respond to wildfire risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wind-fueled blazes over Labor Day weekend in 2020 were among the worst natural disasters in state history, killing nine people, burning more than 1,875 square miles (4,860 square kilometers), and destroying thousands of homes and other structures. The 2024 wildfire season was also historic. It cost Oregon more than $350 million, making it the state's most expensive on record, and it burned a record of nearly 3,000 square miles (7,770 square kilometers), largely on range and grazing land in the state's rural east. McEvoy said the maps will help officials aid communities most in need of wildfire resources. Reducing vegetation around homes to create a buffer zone of defensible space and installing certain fire-resistant features such as metal roofs or fiber cement siding can make a home more resilient to fire. If we manage our vegetation a certain way, if we build our structures out of certain materials, then we can increase the likelihood of that structure surviving, he said. But were not going to change the probability of the fire occurring in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two maps showing wildfire hazard levels and the wildland-urban interface were released by the Oregon Department of Forestry and developed by Oregon State University scientists. Under a state law passed in 2023, insurers cannot use a wildfire hazard map produced by a state agency to cancel or decline to renew a homeowner insurance policy, or to increase premiums. However, McEvoy noted that most insurers have been developing their own wildfire risk models for a long time. "There's very little in this map that hasn't been illustrated or represented in other products produced by researchers or the insurance community themselves, he said. Oregon fire officials and researchers modified the original wildfire hazard maps after receiving thousands of public comments and holding public meetings across the state. McEvoy said major changes included reducing the hazard status of irrigated farmland as well as hay and pasture lands. The latter are often irrigated during haying and grazed during much of the fire season, which reduces the vegetation fuels on the landscape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California, Arizona and New Mexico have had wildfire hazard maps for years. Last year, lawmakers in Washington state ordered the creation of a statewide wildfire risk map, and in 2023, Colorado passed a law establishing a wildfire resiliency code board. The adoption process for the defensible space codes, which will be overseen by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and the building codes, which will be overseen by the Building Codes Division, won't begin until after the appeals period for the wildfire hazard maps is complete. The Oregon Department of Forestry will notify landowners of affected tax lots. ___ Associated Press writers Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Sejal Govindarao in Phoenix contributed to this report. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A recent letter from the Oregon Secretary of States Audits Division is criticizing some Oregon Wine Board procedures from keeping wine at the governors official residence, and incomplete financial statements, to needing legal advice on when to pull wine from the states stockpile. The letter which was first reported by Willamette Week was sent January 3 from the Audits Division to Oregon Wine Board Executive Director Gina Bianco. The letter comes after the division reviewed the boards management of the state wine cellar as part of an ongoing audit of state boards and commissions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legacy nurses at 3 Oregon hospitals announce intent to unionize Overall, the letter offered three key findings and several recommendations to the board. OWB does not have an inventory of state wine assets One of the key findings from the report is the wine board does not have an inventory of state wine assets, according to the Audits Division. In 1985, OWB was tasked with establishing the state cellar by the legislature, and since 1988, the cellar has been located at Mahonia Hall, the governors official residence earning the cellars nickname among OWB staff as the Governors cellar. While the cellar has been located at Mahonia Hall for nearly 40 years, auditors said this presents obstacles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Eye on Northwest Politics The current location of the cellar at Mahonia Hall creates obstacles for OWB to maintain an inventory and ensure proper use of the wine. OWB staff do not have physical access to the cellar without coordination with [Department of Administrative Services] staff as Mahonia Hall is a secured residence. OWB staff may collect and deliver donated wine to the mansion, but wineries may also ship or hand deliver wine as well, creating additional obstacles for maintaining an inventory, Audits Division Director Kip Memmott wrote in the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OWB was in charge of establishing the cellar by purchasing or receiving donations of wines made from Oregon-grown grapes. Auditors learned that wine from the cellar is donated and used for official events; however, staff do not track the wine that is used. PHOTOS: Man crashes into, drives inside Dallas, Ore. convenience store Even though OWB staff said there is a process for stocking the cellar, the board lacks written policies and procedures relating to the cellar, the letter claims. Further, there is no record of when, the purpose, and which wines have been used over the years. The lack of internal controls creates a risk for misuse of state assets, the letter states. Without proper inventory and management controls, OWB cannot account for the cellar, how the wine is being used, and assure it is used appropriately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Auditors also found there is no inventory kept for additional wine kept in a Portland storage facility. Auditors offered recommendations for the board, including maintaining inventories for cellar and storage space wine, and creating procedures for the cellar. OWB financial statements are incomplete without accounting for wine donations A second key finding in the report is that the wine board has incomplete financial statements, according to the Audits Division. The letter states that OWB is required to follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles to accurately show the financial condition of the board, per a state statute. Based on government financial reporting standards, donations from nongovernmental parties, such as Oregon wineries, should be accounted for in financial statements, the division found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People Magazine names Pacific Northwest true crime documentaries among best on Netflix OWBs financial reporting is incomplete. OWB does not have an inventory or valuation of the wine held in the cellar or in storage to enable complete financial reporting. Donated wine is an inflow of resources (revenues) that should be recognized in the period received for financial reporting purposes, the letter said. Auditors estimated that the nearly 300 bottles of wine in the cellar and the minimum of 600 bottles in the Portland storage space are worth at least $40,000. With this finding, auditors recommended that OWB adheres to the accounting principles to accurately show wine values in financial statements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kotek signs executive order requiring labor agreements on state construction projects Statute does not reflect how the cellar is being used In a third finding, the Audits Division highlighted that Oregon law does not reflect how the cellar is being used. The statute identifies four ways the cellar wine can be used including to compare against other wines in order to improve Oregon viticulture and selling the wine to state government agencies for official government functions. Additionally, the statute says the wine could be sold to the governor and heads of state agencies for official government business or to present as a gift when required by protocol or social custom. The wine can also be displayed or offered for tasting for promotional campaigns to encourage the purchase of Oregon wines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portland donut chain Blue Star downsizes by abruptly closing 2 shops OWB and [Department of administrative Services] staff report the wine in the cellar is being used for official events but has not been sold to state agencies or officials as specified in statute, the letter said, noting wine has also been pulled from the cellar for events in Koteks administration, along with the last two administrations. This finding led auditors to recommend the OWB to obtain advice from the Department of Justice to clarify if current cellar practices are allowed. Legal advice from DOJ could determine if the current practice of taking wine from the cellar without payment is allowed under existing statutes, the letter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement to KOIN 6 News, the Oregon Wine Board said, The Oregon Wine Board (OWB) is working with the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) to address the Oregon Secretary of States (SOS) letter relating to the management of the state wine cellar. The OWB Staff was cooperative during the SOS audit last fall, and the OWB Board and Staff are fully committed and eager to address the recommendations of the letter and update the OWBs procedures and policies accordingly. Governor Tina Koteks Office has not responded to KOIN 6 News requests 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 KOIN.com. Along Iberville Street in New Orleans French Quarter, theres a large, square gap in the brick sidewalk. The empty space reminds Frank Perez of being in the closet. Im old enough to remember when it was not okay to be gay, said Perez, head of the LGBTQ+ Archives Project of Louisiana, during a recent visit. Thats what the hole in this sidewalk reminds me of. The space used to bear a flat, bronze plaque emblazoned with the names of victims who died in the citys Upstairs Lounge gay bar fire in 1973. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in April, it was stolen. A man has been arrested and charged with theft, but the original marker remains missing, likely sold as scrap metal. With the help of other local activists, Perez has launched a fundraising campaign to replace the marker. The groups aim is to make sure the memory of what happened there isnt forgotten. This was a seminal moment in our local history, Perez said. And especially given our current political climate, it's very, very important to remember what happened here and the city's reaction to it. The fire remains one of the countrys deadliest attacks on the LGBTQ community. It was the largest up until the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shooting in 2016. In all, 32 people died. Three victims are still unidentified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lounge sat on the second floor of a commercial building in a bustling area of town. It was a hub for working class gay men, but it was also known for being welcoming to people of all stripes. It was a bar that didn't care if you were black or white or gay or straight, Perez said. And even in the LGBTQ community at the time, that was different. Prior to the blaze on Sunday, June 24, 1973, patrons had gathered for the bars weekly beer bust. As the party was winding down, a fight broke out between two regular customers. Bartenders kicked one of the patrons out for being too drunk and for making threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then actually walked a block away to the Walgreens at the corner of Iberville and Royal, bought a can of lighter fluid, came back, and set the stairwell on fire, Perez alleged. The flames quickly traveled up the stairwell and into the bar, killing dozens within minutes, according to local news reports from the time. Firefighters responded, and local media covered the initial tragedy. But overall, the city was mostly hush-hush about the fact that the Upstairs was a gay bar, Perez said. There was no day of mourning, Perez said. There were no public outcries. The only official who really said anything was the Archbishop of the Catholic Church. And all he said was that there would be no Catholic funerals for anyone who died in the bar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local radio broadcasters even joked about the deaths. One said. You know, What do we bury the remains in? Punchline: Fruit jars, Perez said. About 30 years later, a group of local advocates worked to have a plaque installed on the sidewalk right outside of the stairwell leading up to the bar. And New Orleans gradually evolved into a more tolerant city. In 2022, city officials issued a formal apology to the victims and community. They also pledged to exhume the remains of Ferris LeBlanc, a WWII veteran who died in the fire and was buried in an unmarked city grave, and give him a proper burial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Louisiana regularly ranks as one of the least LGBTQ-friendly states, New Orleans queer scene is thriving. The city boasts over a dozen gay bars and hosts the annual Southern Decadence festival. So, in April 2024, the community was shocked when the plaque disappeared. Soon after, New Orleans police released a video of the theft taken from a nearby security camera. It shows a man, later identified as 40-year-old Dannie "Tank" Conner Jr., prying the plaque from the sidewalk. After loosening the bronze square, Conner lifts the marker into a garbage bin before rolling it away. Police arrested Conner in Sept. on charges of theft, and he remains in jail. Police havent given a suspected motive, but Conners criminal history includes a conviction for burglary in 2006. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, he was charged in neighboring Jefferson Parish as a felon in possession of a firearm but found not guilty. A judge revoked his probation and issued a warrant for his arrest the next year for failing to follow a court-ordered substance abuse treatment plan. When Perez first saw the video of Conner stealing the plaque, he wasnt sure whether the theft was hate-motivated or basic theft. I was horrified, he said. I wasnt sure what to make of it, but I knew that this demanded immediate attention. Since then, Perez has set up an online fundraiser with the help of the Metropolitan Community Church, a local queer-affirming congregation. Their goal is to raise $20,000 to make a new plaque, buy insurance and set aside some cash to pay for future commemoration ceremonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hope is to dedicate a new plaque during a ceremony at the site during Pride in 2025. It'll be a well-promoted and well-attended event, he said. Remembering queer history and preserving queer history is a form of resistance. WASHINGTON (AP) Joining law enforcement officials to update the public in the hours after a man killed 14 people and injured dozens of others in New Orleans, Louisiana's junior Republican senator, John Kennedy, implored the FBI to catch these people" and then added one more eyebrow-raising request of the federal government. After we get to the bottom of this," he said, "they need to tell the American people the truth. The comment appeared to allude at least in part to an FBI official's erroneous assertion hours earlier that the Bourbon Street rampage was not a terrorist event," a misstep the FBI tried to clean up with a follow-up statement that said the bureau was indeed investigating the Islamic State group-inspired attack as an act of terrorism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But more broadly, the suggestion that federal officials might obscure the truth of the investigation, and Kennedy's warning that he would raise fresh hell if they did, reflected the uneasy position the FBI had already found itself in by the time of last week's attack: buffeted by suspicion and public criticism from lawmakers, especially allies of President-elect Donald Trump, and bracing for a leadership change expected to produce dramatic upheaval at the nation's premier federal law enforcement agency. When the rubber meets the road, what really matters is that even in spite of all of this noise and that's all it is, is noise the bureau goes about doing its job on a day-to-day basis, said Frank Montoya Jr., a retired FBI senior official and a counterintelligence expert. The attack by Shamsud-Din Jabbar that killed 14 took place in the waning days of the Biden administration and just over two weeks before FBI Director Christopher Wray plans to resign his position to make way for Trump's pick, Kash Patel. It follows a turbulent stretch in which the bureau has faced an escalating threat of international and domestic terrorism and has also been at at the center of politically explosive national security investigations involving both Trump and President Joe Biden that have put the FBI and Justice Department on the defensive and their decision-making under scrutiny. The attack, the deadliest assault on U.S. soil in years inspired by the Islamic State group, is certain to make counterterrorism and national security core topics of discussion at Patel's yet-to-be-scheduled confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former Justice Department national security prosecutor, Patel has appeared repeatedly on podcasts before he was selected as director, where he's spoken of his belief that the FBI needed a major overhaul. But he's been less specific about how as director he would protect the homeland. One area he has discussed is significant reforms on how agents and analysts make use of Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act eavesdropping powers in national security investigations and has spoken also of a desire to break out the FBIs intel shops from the rest of its crime-fighting activities. A person familiar with Patels positions who has sat in on his meetings with senators and who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss private conversations said Patel wants to ensure theres better intel-sharing across agencies but is not calling for the elimination of spy powers. The FBI has long characterized protecting the homeland from terrorist attack as its top priority, and Wray has been proactive in sounding the alarm about a rising threat inspired in part by the turmoil in the Middle East following the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas on Israel. Agents in recent months have successfully disrupted multiple plots, including the October arrest of an Afghan national accused of plotting an Election Day attack and charges weeks later against a Florida man said to be seeking to bomb the New York Stock Exchange. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite that run of success, theres also no question that each action by the FBI is magnified at a time when its work and public statements are so intensely under the microscope as a result of politically charged investigations as well as the aftermath of controversial decisions, like a Justice Department memo directing the FBI to address threatening rhetoric at school board meetings and a since-withdrawn field office memo that warned of potential Catholic extremists. Chris Piehota, a former executive assistant director of the FBI who retired in 2020, said he believed that the FBI had become distracted in recent years by political and social agendas versus addressing the actual emerging threat environment. Their priorities have not been properly set in my opinion, said Piehota, author of a book titled: Wanted: The FBI I Once Knew. In the case of Jabbar, the FBI was continuing to dig into his background but there was no immediate indication that agents missed any obvious red flags prior to the attack that could have thwarted it. Officials say he acted by himself, without any associates, and his path to radicalization he has said he joined the Islamic State before last summer appears to have been short. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet some imperfect communication on the first day did color public perception of the response. Besides initially stating that the attack was not an act of terror, Alethea Duncan, an assistant special agent in charge in the New Orleans field office, said officials did not believe Jabbar had acted alone. A day later, the FBI said that upon further review it had concluded otherwise and that he had been in fact a solo actor. As soon as they found out that that wasnt the case, they came out and they said, Thats not the case,' Montoya said. And we can make a lot of inferences about that, but the fact of the matter is that's how investigations go. Devotional candles with photos of those killed during a New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans sit in front of a memorial site on Bourbon Street on Jan. 4, 2025. (Greg LaRose/Louisiana Illuminator) NEW ORLEANS As concerns have mounted over the citys anti-terrorism protocols in light of last weeks deadly truck attack on Bourbon Street, local and state officials have both promised official investigations. This week, the New Orleans City Council, which announced its own investigation on Friday, is set to hold its first hearing on the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials from Mayor LaToya Cantrells administration are set to answer questions Wednesday about the citys security preparations during a joint meeting of the councils public works and criminal justice committees. The meeting comes one week after 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar turned a rented pickup truck off Canal Street and onto Bourbon Street, climbing up onto the sidewalk and around a parked police SUV before racing down the street and plowing into dozens of pedestrians, ultimately killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. Jabbar died in a shootout with police after wounding two officers in the exchange. The FBI has labeled the incident an act of terrorism. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The attack has raised concerns about potential security lapses, particularly the lack of physical barriers along the citys busiest tourism corridor, in spite of earlier warnings that the street was vulnerable to such a breach.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bollards installed along Bourbon Street during Mayor Mitch Landrieus administration never worked properly, according to a 2019 report assembled by a security firm, and were being replaced. A wedge barrier across Bourbon Street was not deployed on Jan 1. The city had access to steel Archer barriers, that can be used along roadways and sidewalks, but New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick admitted after the attack that she was not aware of them. Though a police car was blocking Bourbon at the intersection of Canal Street, Jabbar was able to maneuver around the vehicle via the sidewalk and race down Bourbon Street. There were no such vehicles placed along Bourbon at the next two intersections, Iberville Street and Bienville Street. And Jabbar continued along Bourbon Street for at least three blocks before crashing into a crane. According to the meeting agenda, representatives from the Department of Public Works and the New Orleans Police Department will participate in a discussion to address security measures, including all barriers available to limit roadways and sidewalk access. Security experts have raised concerns about the lack of barriers, including on sidewalks, that could have prevented Jabbar from accessing and speeding down Bourbon Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Closing off the sidewalk, making sure you cant drive around it, is critical, Jeffrey Halaut, an expert on designing vehicular barriers, told Verite News. That was probably the biggest failure they had there. At the time of the attack, no bollards were blocking off Bourbon Street because the existing ones, first installed in 2017 following a vehicular terror attack in Nice, France, were being replaced with removable, stainless steel bollards. However, according to Halaut, unlike the old ones, the new bollards are not designed to withstand high-speed crashes involving high-weight vehicles like Jabbars. And further, the city does not appear to have a plan for blocking sidewalks to prevent a vehicle from circumventing the new bollards. I think the path that theyre going down is not the proper path, Halaut said. I dont see [the new bollards] as a type of anti-terrorism solution. Wednesdays hearing will not be the end of the scrutiny from the City Council. Council President Helena Moreno last week announced that the council will be launching a full investigation, creating a separate committee to look into the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This committee will play a crucial role in assessing our current policies, enhancing security measures and ensuring we are adequately prepared to respond to any future threats, she wrote in a memo to Councilmember JP Morrell. According to council staff, that committee will be assembled and created at Thursdays regular meeting. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has also launched an investigation into the security plans for New Years Eve and the Sugar Bowl. She has ordered the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation to review operational failures, existing security assessments and other aspects of the citys security plans. 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. Neither the city council nor the attorney generals office could provide an estimated timeline for their investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putting in place adequate security measures is particularly important as New Orleans gears up for the Super Bowl in February and nearly two months of Carnival festivities, culminating in Mardi Gras in March. Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced Monday that the city had been given a Special Event Assessment Rating of Level 1, the highest level, for the Mardi Gras season, which will enable the city to access additional federal resources in event planning. The Mayors Office and the New Orleans Police Department did not respond to requests for comment in time for publication. Safer for everyone In the meantime, residents and workers of the French Quarter have raised concerns over what safety measures the city will pursue in the short and long term and whether the city will put more effort into assuring tourists that it is safe for them to travel to the Quarter than ensuring that the safety of the people who live and work there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the concerns of tourists and the concern for tourism, in general, are way more at the top of city officials lists rather than keeping people safe in the Quarter, Sam Heth, a server at Cane and Table in the French Quarter, said in a Monday interview. Sometimes it feels like things are more done in an effort to make things look appealing to people who are here just for, like, a weekend or a week, as opposed to safer for everyone, she added. Heth, who commutes to work on her bicycle, said infrastructural improvements better bollards, more streetlights and more speed bumps would help her feel safer in the Quarter. Robin Roberts, who has lived on Governor Nicholls Street in the Quarter for 20 years, also expressed concerns about how the city can better ensure safety year-round in the Quarter by protecting pedestrians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive always thought a pedestrian French Quarter is better, and I think it would also be safer because cars obviously can be used as weapons, Roberts told Verite News. But she said that she did not blame the city for the lack of bollards, saying that Jabbar clearly had a strong desire to do harm and would have pursued it by any means necessary, including by planting explosives, as he did. Investigators have identified two separate improvised explosive devices planted in coolers: one at the intersection of Bourbon Street and St.. Peter Street and another at the intersection of Bourbon Street and Toulouse Street. Still, Roberts hopes the city will focus on safety everywhere, not just in the French Quarter. We have a lot of crime elsewhere, so cant just be all about the French Quarter, Roberts said. I mean, regular people deserve safety. Every person, every New Orleanian, deserves safety in their neighborhood. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE This article first appeared on Verite News and is republished here under a Creative Commons license. NEW ORLEANS (AP) She ran around in silver sparkling shoes, her faux chainmail tunic shimmering in the freezing breeze, maneuvering horses made of paper mache, a giant green dragon, and sheep constructed from milk cartons. Antoinette de Alteriis was preparing with hundreds of others to put on the Joan of Arc parade, a joyous, freewheeling kickoff to Carnival season. Just a few blocks away, people wept and laid flowers and crosses at the site of a horrific truck attack that killed 14 people only six days earlier. A memorial to the dead stretched for half a block. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a hard thing. How do you reconcile that with having a parade? de Alteriis said. Heres how we reconcile it: We chose hope. Countless times in the past week, politicians and outsiders have praised the city for its ability to bounce back. New Orleans has faced tragedy again and again, perhaps more than any other American place. Locals wince when people praise the citys resilience. They say they're exhausted at being asked to endure the systemic problems and inequities and government failures. Mark Schettler, a veteran bartender, said he prefers to think of this parade, and all the ones that will come after it, as an act of defiance that inspires others to follow, to act. That, he said, is what the city needs most right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were so sick and tired of having to be resilient. How about for once things just work?" Schettler said. But as long as I have two middle fingers I will always be waving them around defiantly. Stop calling it resilience Schettler watched the parade from the Double Club on Chartres Street, at a party reserved for people in the service industry. It was his 39th birthday -- he had a stack of dollar bills pinned to his chest, a New Orleans birthday tradition -- but there was a bittersweet tinge to the celebration. Schettler grabbed random people at the bar and quizzed them: Whats the R word that you hate the most? Most knew the answer right away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Resilience? said service industry worker Andy Pratt. Pay us! Were sick of being resilient. Its not fair to be judged by your ability to navigate trauma, said Dominic Hernandez, the clubs co-owner with his wife Cierra. It is so dismissive, said Cierra Hernandez. Its honestly insulting, said Rafaela Lopez, a tattoo artist and bartender. They were given little choice but to keep moving: Bourbon Street reopened a mere 36 hours after the carnage, before all the bodies had yet been identified by the coroner. The Sugar Bowl was delayed, but by less than 24 hours. Officials, eager to move forward, plugged the upcoming Super Bowl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people who work as waiters, bartenders or dancers in the French Quarter had to go back to work the day after the attack. Still grappling with the bloodshed in their streets, some said they felt forced into a state of resiliency by leaders prioritizing those who visit the city, over locals need for time and space to heal. Louisiana relies on tourism, with 42.6 million visitors in 2022 generating $17.1 billion. Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, who oversees Louisianas marketing and tourism efforts, said that while he understands the need for time to mourn, he also recognizes that the state needs tourism dollars to survive. Those tourism dollars are what keeps the rest of the city and the rest of the state working, Nungesser said. How we shine for the Super Bowl will affect tourism for years to come." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And although some view the return to normalcy as resilience, others don't share that view or see it as a compliment. Its a forced state of being that requires nothing of anyone but the people who are hurting. Dressed in leopard print with glitter sparkling all over her cheeks, Lopez said the only real resilience is in the support that the community has for itself. The only people who take care of each other is us, Lopez said. Someone brought out shots for the table, and they all raised a glass. They laughed and made a toast: To resilience, yall! A city marked by tragedy It's been just 20 years since Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, and in the decades since there have been more hurricanes, the BP oil spill, and spasms of violence. The city had the highest per-capita homicide rate in the nation in 2022. The numbers have decreased in the years since, but residents still say violence is so ingrained in city life, theyre often numb to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On New Years Day, just hours after the carnage on Bourbon Street, the owner of a Vietnamese supermarket was gunned down in a robbery. Thanh Vu, a mother of six and widely known as Ms. Maria, was described to the local media as a beloved matriarch. Two others were killed in separate shootings that same day: 19-year-old Kayron Hall and 41-year-old Percy Baytop. Things keep happening here hurricanes, floods, now a terrorist attack. Were just expected to dust ourselves off and keep going, said New Orleans native Julie Laskay. De Alteriis said she still has post-traumatic stress disorder from surviving Hurricane Katrina. She spent months after living in a makeshift shelter with her elderly mother, her son and two cats, and still gets pangs of fear when a bad storm rolls in, a compulsion to check in with friends the same instinct she felt after the attack on New Years Day. Some people have criticized Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Chief of Police Anne Kirkpatrick for leaving the French Quarter vulnerable on New Years Eve; the city was in the midst of replacing the steel barriers, leaving a security gap that gave the attacker an entry onto the street. The mayor later admitted she remains unsure if the expensive new barriers would be able to stop a similar vehicle attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If not resilience, then what? The parade marched on. It was a motley assembly of hundreds of volunteers, smaller than in past years, from retirees who had participated for nearly two decades to twentysomethings who signed up on a whim for the first time ever. Spectators expressed gratitude for the knights, monks, angels and others who had donned their elaborate costumes in near-freezing weather: Thank yall! Yall look so great! Gorgeous! Strangers smiled at each other, friends reconnected and hugged along the route and the warmth of the moment seemed to hold the city together. Hannah Miller held a sign reading I love you New Orleans with little lights around it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tonight felt almost like a protest or a rally, she said. Because love is bigger than fear. It felt, some said, like a light in the darkness. Wren Misbach, a marcher dressed in a silvery tunic, viewed it as an act of service to the city she loves. We take care of ourselves here, Misbach said. We rise again, we live to fight another day, we put ourselves back together. Yasin Frank Southall and his friends celebrated in a most New Orleans fashion: Pouring out free hot toddies and slicing king cake for anyone who passed. Going back to normalcy is really important. Its about tradition, its about love, said Southall, a 42-year-old community engagement manager for a housing organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the parade wound to a close, Kathleen Ford, a 56-year-old realtor draped in a pink and white coat with a bejeweled felt crown, called out to the marchers: Pray hard! She had to be here tonight despite the cold, despite how tired she was of bouncing back ever since she lost her house beneath 10 feet of water after Hurricane Katrina. A former French Quarter resident, her favorite bar was just a block away from where the attack happened. This parade, she said, isnt about resilience. It's about the city, and what it means, its beauty, its pain, its grit. Its what we do, its part of our DNA, my DNA, Ford said. Its the soul of my heart and soul of New Orleans. As the parade ended before her, a procession of angels brought up the rear, their white-gloved hands clasped in prayer to the tune of Hallelujah. They marched through a flutter of confetti and flashing blue police lights. ___ Galofaro reported from Louisville, KY, and Cline from Baton Rouge, La. Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Brook on the social platform X: @jack_brook96. Follow Cline on the social platform X: @SaraLCline. In one of his final acts before leaving office, Orange-Osceola State Attorney Andrew Bain put Osceola Sheriff Marcos Lopez on an official list of law enforcement officers deemed untrustworthy. It was the result of months of back-and-forth about comments by the sheriffs in which he appeared to downplay posting a photo of 13-year-old Madeline Sotos body online. Bains move is a highly unusual rebuke of a sitting sheriff, and may make it difficult for Lopez to testify in criminal proceedings, since defense attorneys could challenge his credibility. Bains Dec. 30 letter revealing the decision to put Lopez on the so-called Brady list strongly criticized the Osceola County Sheriffs Office for not conducting a proper investigation into comments the sheriff made to the media beginning with a March 27 interview with WDBO in which he outright denied the photo was of Madeline, found dead in St. Cloud after a dayslong search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the agency opted for a lower-level inquiry under its policy on truthfulness, which Bain suspects was done to ensure the sheriff could avoid being questioned under oath. Bain said his office waited months for a more formal investigation into Lopez comments, either by the sheriffs office or the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, but ultimately received a memo Sept. 25 that exonerated Lopez from claims he lied about the photo. That memo, according to Bains letter, described the comments Lopez made to news outlets as consistent with one another and truthful in nature conclusions Bain said do not hold up to objective scrutiny. While I understand your agencys reading of your truthfulness policy to exclude statements made in response to someone other than the Sheriff or his designee, one would think that if the Sheriff himself is the source of the truthfulness concern, an investigation is warranted in that situation more than any other, Bain wrote. Regardless of the reasoning, however, the result is the same a memo speculating about your intent instead of an investigative report where you could clarify your intention yourself and under oath. In response to questions from the Orlando Sentinel, a sheriffs office spokesperson said the agency completely disagrees with Andrew Bains decision, adding: The perspectives mentioned in his letter have no merit, and the Sheriff will be appealing his decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Worrell returns, looks to rebuild as Orange-Osceola state attorney while grand jury decision looms If that appeal fails, it could pose issues for Lopez. He has been named a potential witness in the case against Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of Madelines mother facing the death penalty in her murder along with dozens of other charges after investigators said he sexually abused the teen for years. Attorneys for Sterns could be expected to make Lopez credibility an issue at trial a tactic common when police officers land on the Brady list, and one which make it difficult for them to do their jobs. The photo at issue in the dispute was sent to Lopezs personal cellphone by one of his command staff after Madelines body was discovered, showing her covered in brush and wearing clothes similar to what was described when she was reported missing. It was later uploaded March 2 by the sheriff among a collection of photos of an event he attended for senior citizens. But when Lopez was asked about the incident during the WDBO interview, he denied the photo was of Madeline while accusing critics of politically trying to use this as an advantage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is contrary to what he later told investigators looking into how the image was published according to an FDLE report, Lopez said it was uploaded to social media by accident and he apologized. A court filing Dec. 11 shows Lopez pleaded no contest to violating public records law for posting the photo to his Instagram page while agreeing to pay a $250 fine. The sequence of events clearly angered Bain. When viewed in this proper context, it is hard to read your immediate answer as anything but an attempt to claim the photo you posted was not the victim in an attempt to lessen your public responsibility for a violation of Florida public records laws, the Dec. 30 letter said. This is particularly true when your public statement then pivots to trying to blame political rivals for discussing the photo you posted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bain announced that his office was considering Lopez for its Brady list in July, a decision the sheriff blasted when speaking to reporters at the time. Bain referred to those statements too in his letter, noting that Lopez confirmed then that he knew the photo was of Madeline, highlighting the lack of truthfulness you displayed in the WDBO interview when you attempted to claim it was not. Whether Lopez gets removed from the Brady list depends on new State Attorney Monique Worrell, who an office spokesperson said has not yet been briefed on the matter after being sworn into office Tuesday morning. Worrell and the sheriff have a contentious relationship marked by Lopezs claims she refused to aggressively prosecute his agencys drug-trafficking investigations which an Orlando Sentinel investigation found were often botched by his own deputies. OTTUMWA, Iowa An Ottumwa man is behind bars after allegedly sexually abusing and trafficking a minor. According to the Ottumwa Police Department, the investigation began on December 24 when officers responded to a report of a possible sexual assault at a residence in the 200 block of South Ward Street. When officers arrived at the scene they located a 12-year-old victim. Iowa father charged with murder in infant sons death to be arraigned Tuesday Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday Ottumwa police arrested Jean-Baptiste Stinfort, 57, in connection to the investigation. According to police, on multiple occasions spanning three years Stinfort paid the juvenile victim to engage in sex acts with him. Stinfort has been charged with Human Trafficking and Second-Degree Sexual Abuse. He is being held at the Wapello County Jail without bond. Iowa 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 who13.com. Artificial intelligence proved, for another year, to be one of the most widely talked about technologies influencing a variety of industries. It promises the same power in 2025. But as development only accelerates further and companies work to adopt systems aimed at upping their game on deploymentwhether to please the customer, streamline internal systems or otherwisequestions over how the technology will be regulated have risen to the surface, particularly in the United States. More from Sourcing Journal Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office this month, experts said the nation is unlikely to see much forward movement at the federal level on regulation. Instead, states may take center stageand some of the administrations most outspoken characters may have a heavy hand on influencing agencies and lawmakers. The year ahead is set to be full of uncertainty, increased public scrutiny of the technology space and an interesting dichotomy between industry and government. Deregulation station Experts project that Trump will take a more deregulatory approach to the technology than his predecessor, President Joe Biden. During his presidency, Biden put forth the Executive Order on the Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, more widely known as the AI EO. But the president-elect has already promised to roll back the provisions from the AI EO, which, by and large, asked federal agencies to create guidelines for the safe and successful use of the technology. Some agencies, like the Department of Labor (DOL), have already set those guidelines into circulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the incoming Trump-Vance administration, Reiko Feaver, partner and technology practice chair at CM Law, said its likely that those guidelines will go by the wayside. To the extent there might have been some openness to federal legislation for AI, I think the appetite to regulate AI in the new administration is going to be a lot lower than it is now, Feaver said. I can see a lot of the Biden White House guidelines and directives being repealed or not followed. Part of the issue, to Trump and fellow MAGA followers, is that many believe legislation stifles innovation and industry. Michelle De Mooy, director of the Tech and Public Policy Program at Georgetown Universitys McCourt School of Public Policy, said when developed responsibly, legislation often helps industry titans understand the limits of their influence, rather than stifling some far off, presently intangible possibility for technology. But try telling that to the new administration, she quipped. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement De Mooy and other experts believe that some subsectors of AI may be regulatedparticularly those around childrens safety and unauthorized deepfakes. That, De Mooy posits, is because these kinds of issues are ones legislators hear about from their constituents; industrial-level AI isnt necessarily plaguing the mind of the average American, but personal safety may be. But the convergence of public interest and industry interest may be coming sooner than later, as an increasing number of data centers start to pop up around the United States. Industry interests Microsoft announced in 2024 that it had entered into an agreement with Pennsylvanias utility, Constellation Energy, to re-up one unit of the Three Mile Island nuclear plant. It will use the energy generated there to power data centers as it continues to develop AI systems. De Mooy said she thinks the public will start to take notice as other Big Tech behemoths join in on snatching up leases, land and contracts to build gargantuan facilities in small communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One issue that I think is going to become more and more of an issue on the publics behalf, is data centers, is the energy question around AI. Im starting to see them, youre starting to see them[Microsoft] is buying Three Mile Island, for Gods sake, De Mooy told Sourcing Journal. This is becoming more and more of a growing issue in communities, and its something that I think the tech companies cannot hide for very much longer. That tension could test legislators and agencies, particularly among those reliant on Big Tech donors. Already, Amazon and Meta have both pledged $1 million donations to Trumps inauguration, as has OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Industry also has a hand in the direction of agencies, experts said. Last year, Trump announced that he had created a new position in his administration: White House AI and Crypto Czar. He has since appointed venture capitalist David Sacks to the spot, an announcement that caused a surge of excitement in the cryptocurrency sphere. Trump also noted that X and Tesla owner Elon Musk would serve alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, heading up the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because none of those men will serve in official agency capacities, they will not need to be confirmed by a Senate vote. While that means that their direct power for creating rules or legislation is limited, their power and influence shouldnt be underestimated, De Mooy said. They have positioned themselves to have the ear of the president, and to have the ear of very wealthy and influential businesses in this country, she said. What that means is, they are at the helm of global industry. What they say and do is going to matter a great deal These men can move markets, and clearly will do that to their own advantage. Agencies agency In the absence of comprehensive federal legislation on AI, some agencies have started to create guidelines, experimental programs and pilots for the technology. Others, like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have used existing legislation and rules to enforce the responsible use of AI systems. For instance, the FTC brought a case against Rite Aid, alleging it had unfairly used facial recognition technology (FRT) powered by AI to prevent retail theft. Ultimately, the FTC settled the case with Rite Aid, restricting it from using any facial recognition technology for five years, subjecting it to model disgorgementor the destruction of the algorithms and models used to operate the system, put limits on its future use of biometric data and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency warned that Rite Aid would serve as a model for future casesand noted that, while AI is still a developing technology, its subject to all applicable laws. But the FTC has also, under Lina Khans reign, pursued a slew of antitrust actions that made her, at times, unpopular among industry players. De Mooy and Helen Christakos, partner at A&O Shearman, said Trumps potential deregulatory approach could also extend to antitrust; she expects the president-elect to take a more hands-off approach and to instruct federal regulators to act in a similar way. It is generally thought that Trump will take a less restrictive approach on antitrust, and we expect that were going to see an increase in M&A in the AI space, Christakos told Sourcing Journal. Ultimately, that could see Big Tech players snapping up startups and young companies touting AI at a more rapid rate than todays FTC might find permissible. Existing legislation and the states Christakos and De Mooy said existing federal legislation may provide companies some framework around whats permissible when it comes to the development of AI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Privacy laws are the laws that have the greatest impact on the development of AI, in addition to the standalone AI laws that are passed, Christakos said. Christakos and De Mooy said intellectual property and copyright laws will also bear major importance on the continued development and use of AI systems. At present, a number of cases alleging copyright infringement against open-source, general-purpose AI systems are already playing out. De Mooy said she expects the results of those cases to determine the trajectory of AIs continued development. Theres a couple key pivot points in the development of AI that I think will make a big difference related to policy, and one of them is the copyright issue. What that ruling sayswill be the difference between AI going one way and AI developing another way in this country, she said. Among so much uncertainty and deregulation at the federal level, Feaver and De Mooy said they expect most of the meaningful legislation on AI in the U.S. to be handed down at the state level; that trend has already started. The states were really active in 2024, and I think that in the absence of federal action, they will continue to be, De Mooy said. California, Colorado and Utah have already passed and signed into law AI-specific legislation. Meanwhile, legislators in other states, like Massachusetts, Illinois and Ohio, are actively working on bills on AI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And such efforts would be far from futile, even in the case that federal legislation does come along in the next several years. A federal AI bill or package might change how states implementing AI legislation have chosen to govern the technology thus far, but Christakos noted that its still possible that states legislation could prove more stringent than federal laws. In those cases, states could see those laws being left intact, if federal regulations dont supersede them. Feaver said, in analyzing bills proposed by state legislators, several key themes have emerged. She expects the same to remain true throughout 2025. They all have the same basic themes, which is fair use, transparency, compliance, program, monitoring, security, knowledge of the data that youre using, Feaver said. Given the predominance of those specific concepts, the other states will probably be addressing the same things. State police are investigating after a Pennsylvania woman was scammed over $14,000. According to a Jan. 5 police report, a 50-year-old Erie woman lost $14,565 after an unknown suspect contacted the victim on Facebook about investing her money. Jamestown man facing charges after over 100 grams of miscellaneous drugs found in apartment The suspect allegedly told the Erie woman to send in payments with the promise of investing that money into a large lump sum profit for the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the course of five months, the victim sent in multiple payments to the suspect but did not receive any money in return from these alleged investments. Erie police release photo of car involved in crash that injured 71-year-old man Police advise the public to refrain from engaging with social media accounts that request money as it is most likely a scam. Anyone with more information about this incident is asked to contact PSP Trooper Wilson at 814-898-1641. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) More than two hundred animal abuse charges were filed against two people Tuesday in the horrific Adams County school bus case where multiple animals were sexually abused, officials say. Shawn Hirschbine, 51, and Deanna Huff, 64, both of Georgia, were both charged following the six-month investigation by Eastern Adams Regional police, the Adams County District Attorneys Office announced. Hirschbine is currently incarcerated in West Virginia, while officials are looking for Huff. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Keller at (717) 624-1614. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were 30 birds including ducks, chickens and turkeys, three German Shepherds, one Australian Shepherd, a bull, and a pony found living in what police described as uninhabitable and horrifying conditions on the school bus. The bus was found by police on June 15 just after 8:30 p.m. after it broke down at the intersection of Red Hill Road and Hanover Street. Hirschbine and his girlfriend Huff were trying to move the bus off the roadway. Adams County SPCA rescues animals being used for bestiality from trailer towed by bus This was when police found Hirschbine was wanted out of West Virginia for allegedly distributing bestiality, and took him into custody. There was a phone number on the bus that when Googled by police took them to two different porn websites that were allegedly associated with Hirschbine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the animals were used for bestiality purposes, where Hirschbine would allegedly let people watch him have sex with them for money. Some of those animals had to be put down due to the abuse and neglect, according to the charges. The criminal complaint says three dogs, a duck, a chicken and a pony died, while the pony and bull were sexually traumatized. Several animals rescued from horrific Adams County school bus case put down No DNA was found from swabs done on the animals, however, some did show signs of being sexually traumatized. According to the complaint, the pony and bull did not move or try to get away when being swabbed which was found to be unusual. The animals also were not being fed, the complaint shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Huff was questioned twice by police, they say she changed her story about the duo wanting to start a petting zoo for kids on the bus. When it was brought up about her and Hirschbine being charged in New York, she denied the allegations that Hirschbine was having sex with animals and said that the charges were dismissed, but police saw Hirschbines wasnt. Huff also talked about having a loaded handgun on the bus, which was then later found in the glove box after police searched the bus. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now abc27 Evening Newsletter Hirschbine denied to speak with police regarding the animals on the bus, the complaint shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hirschbine faces a total of 123 charges while Huff faces a total of 129 charges that include aggravated cruelty to animals, criminal conspiracy, and two firearm charges. Misdemeanor charges including criminal conspiracy, cruelty to animals, neglect of animals, and vet care, online court records show. Assistant DA Kyle Reuter will prosecute 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 ABC27. KENTUCKY (FOX 56) Over 250 members of the Kentucky National Guard were sent to assist Kentucky communities as Winter Storm Blair took hold of the Bluegrass. From helping clear roads to making sure people get where they are needed, were dedicated to helping out when called upon, the Kentucky National Guard said Tuesday afternoon on Facebook. According to the Kentucky National Guard, there are currently 38 ongoing missions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those missions includes escorting doctors, nurses, and emergency responders through the storm to reach their destination safely. Read more of the latest Kentucky news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sherrie Judson is a licensed practical nurse at Bradford Square Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Frankfort. I didnt think I would have any issues getting to work since I have a four-wheel-drive SUV, Judson said after being picked up after her SUV was iced over in her driveway. I never thought I would need a ride in a Humvee to make it to my job. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Other missions include helping clear roads and aiding county emergency management until theyre able to support their communities with their own assets, according to the Kentucky National Guard. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OVERLAND PARK, Kan. Monday afternoon, crews were hitting unplowed side streets in Johnson County, Kansas. Workers in Olathe and Overland Park say their main arteries are almost clear. An Overland Park neighborhood that had not been plowed early that afternoon was Hemlock Street near 81st Street east of Antioch. Communications Director Meg Ralph said some of the streets in the city were like that but not all of them. Were kind of doing a single pass through on them right now just to make a space, so people can drive through, Ralph said outside her home Monday afternoon. So, some streets are going to be better than others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ralph says the snow plows will be coming to your neighborhood if they havent gotten there yet. Kansas City-area school closings, remote learning for Tuesday, January 7 Our hope is tonight to have the neighborhood streets pretty well covered, if not into tomorrow morning, she said. Our crews will be working all night to get it done. The freezing temperatures are still going to be there, so were going to have some slickness and a little bit of a treacherous situation on the ice, but we hope to have some more of the snow removed overnight. Ralph added that some people have called to complain about their street not being plowed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nothing wild, but we are getting people wondering, Did you miss me? Are you coming? Whats the deal?' Ralph continued. Our message to you is, If you havent seen a plow come down your street, please just be patient. We are going to get to you. It does take the staff away from some of the plowing and dispatching operations to respond to those messages, so right now, our primary focus is just getting plows on the streets. In Olathe, snowplow crews were also working on the residential streets Monday afternoon. It is just going to take some time, Olathe Public Information Officer Cody Kennedy said in an interview over Zoom with FOX4 Monday. That wind was significant yesterday. You could do a pass and ten minutes later, it would be recovered again, so we appreciate the publics patience. We appreciate everyone who has stayed off the roads if they were able to. Joes Blog: More snow possible this week (MON-1/6) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cothrell Street just west of Ridgeview Road had been plowed. One person we found stuck there was Celine Oranday. .Her car couldnt go up the hill at Sunset Drive, which hadnt been plowed. Shed only been stuck at that intersection for five minutes by the time FOX4 found her, but she was also stuck earlier in the day for a half hour. To go try and get some food! Im hungry, Oranday said when asked where she was going. No, actually, she said when asked if she stocked up on food over the past couple of days due to the blizzard. This is horrible. Very Frustrating, she said when asked if her situation was frustrating. So, here we are in the middle of the street. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fortunately, Oranday, her friend, and the FOX4 crew were able to get her out of the snow. Olathe had about 140 workers out Monday afternoon clearing snow. Overland Park had about 160 snow plows out. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. A U.S. District Court judge responded to a lawsuit filed by Fresh Vision, an Overland Park political organization, against the Kansas Govenmental Ethics Commission and KGEC executive director Mark Skoglund, pictured, by declaring Fresh Vision didn't have to register at a political action committee, despite endorsing a specific mayoral candidate, because its central mission was issue advocacy. The judge declined to strike down the state's campaign finance law. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Legislature's YouTube channel) TOPEKA A U.S. District Court judge decided a small Kansas organization primarily engaged in local-issue advocacy shouldnt be compelled under current state laws or regulations to register as a political action committee despite campaigning for election of a specific candidate for Overland Park mayor. The dispute was between Fresh Vision OP, with a membership ranging from two to six people, and the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. KGEC had ordered Fresh Vision to file paperwork as a PAC following the groups expenditure of more than $100 to champion the 2021 mayoral candidacy of Faris Farassati with mailers and a website. The Overland Park city council member, who agitated against certain building development incentives, finished a distant third in the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rather than comply with KGECs directive to form a PAC and transparently disclose donors, Fresh Visions leadership suspended operations and filed a lawsuit with assistance from the Institute for Free Speech. The Washington, D.C., nonprofit has actively opposed campaign disclosure laws and supported outcome of the Citizens United case that enabled U.S. elections to be further cloaked in dark money. In the Kansas lawsuit, Fresh Vision officers James Muir and Chengny Thao alleged provisions of the Kansas Campaign Finance Act violated their First Amendment right to free speech in political affairs. The suit challenged on constitutional grounds the states definition of a PAC and the imposition of donor reporting requirements once independent expenditures advocating for a candidate surpassed $100. District Court Judge Daniel Crabtree previously issued a temporary restraining order against KGEC before releasing a 33-page opinion viewed as a partial victory for Fresh Vision. On Friday, Crabtree imposed a permanent injunction preventing state officials from designating Fresh Vision as a PAC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue boiled down to distinctions between a and the major purpose of Fresh Vision. The judge said the central purpose of Fresh Vision was issue advocacy. Its support for an unsuccessful mayoral candidate was merely a purpose of the organization. Groups that occasionally engaged in campaign speech, the courts decision said, cannot be subjected to the full weight of campaign finance standards applicable to PACs in Kansas. The judge also said Fresh Vision lacked standing to bring its pre-enforcement, chilled-speech challenge to the state campaign finance acts threshold on independent expenditures. In the decision, the judge said plaintiffs failed to demonstrate a credible threat of the type of enforcement that chilled First Amendment rights. Plaintiffs failed to shoulder their burden to establish a substantially disproportionate number of unconstitutional applications, the opinion said. In the end, Crabtree declined to accept the plaintiffs argument it was necessary to strike down the entirety of the states campaign finance act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a case about balance the balance between a citizens right to free speech and a state governments interest in campaign finance regulation, the judge wrote. Mark Skoglund, executive director of the state Governmental Ethics Commission, wasnt available for comment Tuesday on the decision. State government offices in Shawnee County were closed due to the winter storm. Charles Miller, an attorney with Institute for Free Speech, said the federal court ruling in Kansas protected the right of citizens to speak about local issues without fear of being mired in complex campaign finance regulations. Groups like Fresh Vision exist primarily to improve their communities through issue advocacy, he said. The First Amendment doesnt allow bureaucrats to use arcane regulations to burden these groups political speech rights simply because they sometimes express support for candidates who share their values. A protester holds a Trump flag inside the U.S. Capitol Building on the steps outside the Senate chamber on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) Pennsylvania Senate Democrats held a virtual press conference on Monday to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the riot on Capitol Hill when supporters of President-elect Donald Trump attempted to overturn the certification of the 2020 presidential election. Though he was rarely mentioned by name, speakers alluded to Trumps reelection and his attempts to reframe what happened on Jan. 6, 2021. During his 2024 campaign, Trump regularly attempted to downplay the events and violence of Jan. 6 and referred to it as a day of love. He has also promised to pardon those who were convicted of crimes stemming from their actions at the Capitol, though its unclear whether that will include those charged with violent crimes against law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,580 people have been charged for their roles in the riot, according to the U.S. Dept. of Justice, including dozens from Pennsylvania. We have to make sure we keep coming back so that people understand that even though we had an attempted insurrection, it was not a walk in the park, said state Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia). It was not a peaceful gathering. It was an attempted insurrection to overthrow the government of the United States of America. Sen. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia) alluded to Trump more directly in his comments. To have our voices honored and respected, and our decisions democratically upheld, are among our most foundational and essential freedoms, Saval said. We are witnessing this in action today in Washington with the certification thats already taken place of the election results of a man who just four years ago urged his supporters to overthrow the will of the people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saval added, in the days, weeks and years to come, a multiracial United States rooted in justice, freedom and equality will continue to spur authoritarian tendencies. The press conference began only minutes after the U.S. Congress finished certifying the results of the 2024 election, which Trump won. There were no objections and the Senate was presided over by Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost to Trump in November. Responding to a question from a reporter at Philadelphia-area KYW news, Sen. Art Haywood (D-Montgomery), whose office organized the press conference, said that it was not a reactionary event, held because of Trumps victory. One hundred years from now, we should still recognize these individuals for all that they have done, Haywood said, referring to law enforcement officers who responded to the riot and lawmakers who certified the election in spite of it. Our recognition of these individuals will go far beyond whatever happens or doesnt happen with the current administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pastor Alisa Wailoo, a pastor at a church in Philadelphias Germantown neighborhood, was in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 6, 2021. At the time, she was working at a church near the Capitol and was a substitute Chaplain for the U.S. House of Representatives. Many of the members of her church, she said, were involved in politics, including as civil servants and campaign staff. Our church was red and blue, and though they did not agree on everything politically, they shared this deep reverence for the work that was entrusted to them and for the wide diversity of people whose needs they represented, Wailoo said. She recalled how numerous members of her congregation lit up my phone on January 6, 2021 as these tragic events unfolded. She was asked, for example, to call a member of her churchs husband, who had to barricade himself in the Capitol when rioters broke in. Wailoo also recalled the shock on the morning of Jan. 7, 2021 of seeing national guard members placing barbed wire around the neighborhood of her church, and being asked to explain to children why there was so much militarized security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement January 6 reveals part of who we are and where we are as a nation in this moment of time, Wailoo said. Following the courage of the officers and civil servants, we too can be courageous people to recognize some of this as a current American problem. No Republican lawmaker spoke at the event, though its unclear if any were invited. The event was organized by Haywoods office, along with Hughes and Saval. Wallace Weaver, a spokesperson for Haywood, said that in previous years, Republican lawmakers had been invited to speak, though none ever did. This year, the invitation was only sent to members of the Philadelphia delegation, which, in the Senate, consists entirely of Democrats. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE (WJET/WFXP) Pennsylvania State Police are investigating after a Pennsylvania woman lost more than $100,000 in an online scam. According to PSP Lewis Run, a 45-year-old McKean County woman reported the theft through an illegitimate website on Jan. 4. Over $14K stolen from Pennsylvania woman in Facebook scam Police said she lost $112,000 as a result of the scam and are continuing to investigate. To avoid fake website scams, the Better Business Bureau recommends the following tips: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check the domain name and make sure its correct, fake sites will have slight misspellings or the incorrect domain name. Check subdomain ex: Netflix.com.Movies.com would be a fake subdomain Be careful with email phishing scam links, some links may look real and send you to a site that seems legit but hover the cursor over the link to show the whole link to make sure it matches the blue text. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Paddy Hill, who has died aged 80, was the best known of the Birmingham Six who were wrongly convicted of planting the pub bombs that killed 21 people in 1974. Hill, who always protested his innocence, served 16 years in jail and emerged traumatised and angry. Incensed by the lack of support he received after his release, in 2001 he set up the Miscarriages of Justice Organisation (Mojo), which campaigns for people who have been wrongly convicted and provides psychological and other help to the innocent upon their release from jail. The bombings took place on the evening of November 21 1974 in two busy pubs in the centre of Birmingham, the Mulberry Bush and the Tavern in the Town. At 8.11pm, a man with an Irish accent telephoned the Birmingham Post with a warning, but it was too late. At 8.18pm a bomb exploded in the Mulberry Bush, killing 10 people. Two minutes later another blast at the Tavern in the Town killed 11. The dead were seven women and 14 men, aged between 17 and 51. Another 182 people were injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four hours later five men, Gerry Hunter, Richard McIlkenny, Billy Power and John Walker, and Hill all Irish, all republican sympathisers were arrested as they waited at Heysham in Lancashire to board the overnight ferry to Belfast on their way to attend the IRA funeral of James McDade, who had blown himself up while planting a bomb in Coventry. The sixth man, Hugh Callaghan, who had seen them off on the train, was arrested the following day. Chris Mullin MP, centre, with the Birmingham Six, from the left, John Walker, Paddy Hill, Hugh Callaghan, Richard McIlkenny, Gerry Hunter and William Power outside the Old Bailey in 1991 after their convictions were quashed - PA/Alamy By this time Billy Power had signed a statement implicating himself and the five other suspects in the bombings. According to the future MP Chris Mullin, then a journalist, who investigated the case for World in Action in the 1980s, this confession was extracted after Power had been subjected to extreme physical and psychological abuse by West Midlands Police. Callaghan, McIlkenny and Walker also signed confessions after allegedly being subjected to similar abuse. Hill claimed that he too had been violently abused: They jammed a pistol in my mouth and smashed it around, breaking my teeth so badly it was agony to even have a sip of water until I finally saw a dentist, two weeks later, he told The Guardian in 2010. They told me they knew I was innocent but that they didnt care: they had been told to get a conviction and that if I didnt admit to the bombing, they would shoot me in the mouth. They slowly counted to three, then pulled the trigger. They did that three times. Each time, I thought I was going to die. Yet neither he nor Hunter signed confessions. The police claimed they made verbal admissions, which they both denied. Chris Mullinss 1986 account of the Birmingham bombings The trial of the six on charges of murder took place at Lancaster Crown Court in 1975. The evidence against them consisted of the four confessions, evidence from the forensic scientist Frank Skuse, who claimed with 99 per cent certainty that Hill and Power had handled explosives and circumstantial evidence of Irish republican sympathies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All pleaded not guilty, and the defence challenged the admissibility of the confessions on the grounds that the men had been beaten into making them. Skuses findings were refuted in court by Dr Hugh Black, the former Chief Inspector of Explosives. Yet the judge, Mr Justice Bridge, allowed the confessions to go before the jury and preferred Skuses evidence to that of Black. The jury found the six guilty of murder and on August 15 1975 they were each given 21 life sentences. In prison they continued to maintain their innocence, but for years efforts to have their case reconsidered got nowhere. In 1976 they were denied leave to appeal. In 1980 the Master of the Rolls, Lord Denning, threw out a civil action they had brought, describing the possible revelation of police perjury and brutality as such an appalling vista that every sensible person would say: It cannot be right that these actions should go any further. HIlls 1996 memoir In 1985 the current affairs programme World in Action interviewed two other forensic scientists who threw further cold water on Skuses evidence, a former West Midlands policeman who confirmed that the Six had been beaten and threatened in custody, and Joe Cahill, a former IRA chief of staff, who acknowledged the IRAs role in the pub bombings. In 1986 Chris Mullin, who had been encouraged to examine the case by Hill, published Error of Judgement, in which he reported interviews with anonymous IRA members who claimed to have been involved in the bombings and confirmed that the six convicted men had not been involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Home Office referred the conviction to the Court of Appeal in January 1987, but the convictions were still upheld. It took another appeal to exonerate them. On March 14 1991 the Court of Appeal quashed their convictions based on police fabrication of evidence, and the six walked free. Patrick Joseph Hill was born on December 20 1944 in the Catholic Ardoyne area of north Belfast. His family were not strongly republican, his father and brother having served in the British Army, though young Paddy became a friend of the future IRA bomber James McDade at primary school. Hill at the microphone outside the Old Bailey in 1991 - Daily Mail/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1960 Hills father moved to Birmingham to find work and most of the family, including Paddy, soon joined him. Paddy trained as a painter, decorator and signwriter, but he was no angel, and as a teenager people learnt to give him a wide berth. I did a lot of slicing people and all that, he recalled. Thats the way it was. I used to carry cut-throat razors strapped to my body, a hatchet strapped to my leg, I was like something coming out of the Vietnam jungle. By the time of his arrest in 1974 he had collected 17 convictions, mostly violence-related. In 1970 he served 13 months in prison for stabbing three nightclub bouncers in a fight. In prison, Hill was christened fearless Paddy, but he emerged in 1991 deeply damaged. His weight fell dramatically and his behaviour was erratic. His wife, Pat, whom he had married in 1966, had divorced him in 1983 and his relationships with his six children broke down. Leading psychiatrists who agreed to see him on a pro bono basis were forced to admit they did not have the expertise to help anyone so severely traumatised. In 1996 Hill published a memoir, Forever Lost, Forever Gone. In 2014 he opened an online petition calling on the government to establish a full public inquiry into the Birmingham bombings and urging the government and IRA members involved to come clean. But no one has been held to account for one of the biggest acts of mass murder in UK history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2005 Paddy Hill married Tara Babel, an artist he met at a fundraising event for Mojo, and settled on a farm in Ayrshire. She survives him. Paddy Hill, born December 20 1944, died December 23 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. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) A Panama City man is behind bars and is now facing multiple counts of possessing child porn. 41-year-old Donald Deloach, a registered sex offender, was taken into custody by the Bay County Sheriffs office around 7:30 Monday morning. High-speed pursuit in Holmes County ends in arrest According to investigators, they received reports from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children about a cloud server storing multiple photos and videos of children in sexual situations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the investigation, they identified the phone being used to upload these photos and videos to the cloud. The phone was using an IP address that belonged to the account of Deloach at an address in the 600th block of Williams Avenue. On Monday, deputies executed a search warrant at the address. During an interview, deputies say Deloach admitted to finding the images on an unknown website and that he destroyed the phone shortly after his girlfriend found him with it. Hes charged with 11 counts of child porn. Deloach is currently being held in the Bay County Jail awaiting 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 mypanhandle.com. SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) Parents living in one Summerville neighborhood are concerned about the easy access children and animals could have getting onto the Berlin G Myers Parkway extension. Joseph Greco, who lives in the Tea Farm subdivision of Summerville, said the access point onto the new roadway does not have a gate that could prevent small children or pets from walking onto the ramp and potentially into traffic. Ive lived here for five years, well before this was established, weve been living here. This neighborhood was completely closed off to any type of major roads before. Im not against the road being built. If it eliminates traffic concerns, thats perfectly fine. My only concern is the safety of the children in the neighborhood, said Joseph Greco. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project includes an entry path basically in the middle of the neighborhood. Weve added this walkway right here in order to access the Sawmill Branch Trail, and with this walkway, there is no safety gate or any type of self-closing gate to prevent children from getting onto the highway. With the amount of children in this neighborhood, its a high concern for us that someones going to access this and a child will have, you know, a fatality. Greco said there are a lot of young children living very close to the walkway. He believes the solution is simple. Personally, I think they should have a self-closing gate similar to a public park or a public pool that would open and then close behind you so no one has to worry about it remaining open afterward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greco said hes discussed the matter with Summerville mayor and the South Carolina Department of Transportation. and was told that it would be an inconvenience for a cyclist that would be coming down the ramp to have to dismount the bike and open the gate, he said. I think we just need the gate for the safety of the community. News 2 also reached out to Summerville Mayor Russ Touchberrys office and SCDOT. Once we hear more, we will update this story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man convicted of three counts of rape and other charges at a bench trial in November was sentenced Tuesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to 20 years to life in prison. Judge Anthony Donofrio gave the sentence to Lenoard Sykes, 49, who was also found guilty of importuning, a fourth-degree felony, and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, a fifth-degree felony. Sykes had a bench trial that began Nov. 12 on the charges and ended Nov. 14. Judge Donofrio issued his verdicts Nov. 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assistant Prosecutor Caitlyn Andrews asked for a sentence of 30 to life, saying the victim in the case was only 12 years old and staying with Sykes because of a bad situation in her home life. When she was there, he took advantage of her, Andrews said. The crimes he is charged with happened in August 2022, according to court records. Judge Donofrios judgment entry said the charges against Sykes stemmed from an investigation into a missing juvenile that began in 2022 by the Mahoning County Sheriffs Office. With help from the U.S. Marshals, investigators were able in August 2022 to trace the missing juvenile through internet records to an apartment in the 700 block of Park Avenue on the North Side of Youngstown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When investigators went to the apartment Sept. 9, 2022, they found the missing juvenile there along with the son of the woman who rented the apartment, who is Sykes, according to the judgment entry. Sykes appeared agitated when investigators were inside and told them the missing juvenile was a friend of his mother, the entry said. The juvenile, who was 13 at the time, was interviewed later and told investigators she and Sykes had been intimate, the entry said. Andrews said the victim changed her story during the trial because she was afraid of Sykes. He created this atmosphere for her where she was terrified, Andrews said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense attorney Nick Brevetta asked for a lighter sentence. He said his client would be appealing the verdicts. Sykes started to speak but then stopped because of his pending appeal. He refused to sign a ruling requiring him to register as a sexual offender if he is ever released from prison. Even though he did not sign, he could still be charged if he fails to register, Judge Donofrio said. Judge Donofrio said Sykes took advantage of a runaway and that as an adult, he never should have been in a relationship with her. Were talking about a 49-year-old man pursuing a 12-year-old girl, Judge Donofrio said. Its pathetic, its disgusting and its revolting. His actions were simply shocking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an unrelated case, Sykes was indicted on drug charges in federal court after he was convicted in the bench trial. That case is pending. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. An overtime ban at Britains aviation regulator could delay aircraft upgrades, the Prospect union claimed, including a revamp of first-class cabins at British Airways. Prospect said 360 members employed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) would begin a work-to-rule on Jan 20 in protest against the public body imposing a 3-4pc pay rise. It said the industrial action, which is the first in 40 years at the CAA, would disrupt a range of activities given the regulator is reliant on staff working beyond their contracted hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The disruption could include delays to the certification of new aircraft and changes to existing planes, such as the British Airways upgrade announced in November, a Prospect spokesman said. The flagship carrier is planning to introduce what it touted as a game-changing luxury hotel-style makeover of the first-class cabins in its A380 superjumbo fleet by mid-2026. The revamp will feature seats more than three feet wide, 32-inch TV screens and a privacy wall that slides away to create a shared lounge space. Prospect said the CAA imposed the pay award in August after going through the motions of negotiating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is seeking an alternative deal worth at least 5.5pc backdated to last April, together with a lump sum of 1,500, which it said would bring parity with the civil service. Rachel Curley, the unions deputy general secretary, said there was still time to avoid disruption if the CAA sweetens the pay deal. She said: Our members dont want to take industrial action but they have been left with no choice after unacceptable tactics from the employer. The CAA needs to restart good-faith negotiations and come up with a fair and reasonable offer that our members can accept. The CAAs workload has increased since Brexit after the regulator took control of certification activities and areas such as research and policy development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also assumed responsibility for regulation of space activities and has seen a jump in work related to drone operations. Other duties include ensuring airlines and airports meet safety and security standards, enforcing consumer laws, capping landing fees at Heathrow, overseeing airspace, monitoring environmental impacts and regulating travel firms through the ATOL scheme. Prospect members work in a variety of crucial middle and senior management roles, according to the union, which said action short of a strike was supported by 94pc of votes cast in a ballot, with almost three-quarters also backing a walkout. The CAA said its award reflected public sector pay policy, the broader economic context and its own financial sustainability, including revenue received in fees from the aviation industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A CAA spokesman said: We continue to engage with our union colleagues and after prolonged discussions, it is disappointing that Prospect members have voted to take industrial action. It said that with the labour group representing only around one in five employees, no disruption to its regulatory oversight activities or other safety critical work is anticipated. British Airways was contacted 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. OGLE COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO) A 21-year-old man from Pecatonica, with a suspended license and no insurance, led police in a 30-mile chase across two counties Monday evening, at speeds that reached 125 mph. According to the Ogle County Sheriffs Office, deputies attempted to stop Jered Vautsmeier on West Route 64, north of Polo, around 6:24 p.m., but Vautsmeier reportedly sped away. Ogle County deputies said they terminated the pursuit out of safety concerns, but other deputies acquired Vautsmeiers vehicle in Leaf River and tried to stop him, but he again fled north into Winnebago County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said Ogle County law enforcement along with Pecatonica Police were finally able to capture Vautsmeier, and that Winnebago County Sheriffs Deputies and Illinois State Police troopers were all involved in the case. He faces charges of aggravated fleeing to elude, obstructing identification, obstructing justice, speeding 125 mph in a 55 mph zone, fleeing attempting to elude an officer, improper lane usage, disregarding a traffic control device, driving on a suspended license, improper display of registration, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Vautsmeier was taken to the Ogle County Jail and then released with a notice to appear at a future court date. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) A pedestrian was hit and killed in Greensboro on Monday night, according to a Greensboro Police Department news release. Around 8 p.m., Greensboro police, Greensboro firefighters, and Guilford County EMS responded to West Wendover Avenue near South Holden Road when they were told about a crash involving a car and a pedestrian. The driver of a Honda Accord was going west on West Wendover Avenue when a pedestrian, Brian Vaden, 46, of Madison, walked into the road and was hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vaden died at the scene. His next of kin was notified. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. On Sunday, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued an ominous warning about MAGA-inspired political violence and its ongoing threat to democracy four years after Donald Trump attempted to subvert the 2020 election. Pelosis comments, in an interview on CBS Face the Nation, were a stark reminder that the threat of MAGA violence was not a moment in time. Rather, it continues to loom large, particularly as Trump prepares to return to the White House. Now it didnt end that day, Pelosi said of the pro-Trump violence that occurred on Jan. 6, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As you know, he [Trump] 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," she continued, referring to the 2022 attack against her husband, Paul Pelosi, in their San Francisco home by a right-wing conspiracy theorist. "So it just goes on and on. It isnt something that happens and then its over. Pelosi is right. Violent political terror, which is an accurate descriptor of the Jan. 6 attack, serves to instill fear in its victims about what may happen to them down the line if they don't comply. So even if Republicans hadn't become cheerleaders for MAGA extremists in the years since that riot, the threat of violence would still be casting a pall over our politics four years later. Of course, Republicans have openly downplayed and at times, celebrated violent acts of MAGA vigilantism ever since Jan. 6, 2021. That includes the violent assault on Pelosi's husband, which Republicans like Trump have mocked, and the MAGA movements praise for Jan. 6 rioters, whom Trump has portrayed as patriots and vowed to pardon in some cases. Conservatives have also made celebrities out of white vigilantes like Daniel Perry, who was convicted of murdering an anti-racist protester in 2020 and later pardoned by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. His pardon last year became a cause celebre among some conservatives. Weve also seen various incidents of political violence on behalf of the MAGA movement beyond those that have captivated the conservative horde. That includes the Las Vegas car bomb incident outside a Trump hotel on New Years Day. The suspect who officials say died by suicide before the explosion has been identified as a Trump supporter. His recent writings urged the removal of Democrats from the federal government and military "by any means necessary. And last month, Trump supporter Patrick Egan allegedly assaulted a Pacific Islander journalist in Colorado after questioning his immigration status and declaring, This is Trumps America now. (Egan has not yet pleaded to the charges. His lawyer said during a court hearing last week that Egan has had mental health issues for years.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pelosis statement about the persistence of MAGA violence was an urgent warning not to think of Jan. 6 as a moment weve moved on from, but instead as a crisis we continue to endure. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com SOMERSET, Pa. (WTAJ) PennDOT will hold a special REAL ID Day at Somerset Driver License Center on Jan. 13. offering extended hours to help residents meet the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline set for May 7. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5593 Glades Pike in Somerset. The one-day event aims to make the process more accessible by providing additional time for Pennsylvanians to obtain a REAL ID-compliant drivers license or identification card. More than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have already opted into the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but it will be required for boarding domestic flights, entering military bases, and accessing federal facilities after the May 2025 deadline. Residents must present specific documents, such as proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of Pennsylvania Address, to apply for a REAL ID. The initial REAL ID product costs $30 plus standard renewal fees. Applicants may receive their REAl ID via mail or in-person at select PennDOT centers. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. For details on required documents, fees, or other REAL ID-related information, visit PennDOTs REAL ID 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 WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. The 2025 PA Farm show runs from Jan. 3 to Jan. 11, 2025 (Commonwealth Media Services photo) As the dust settles on the 2024 election and both political parties look ahead, the PA Farm Show offered some insights into what Democrats and Republicans in Pennsylvania are thinking about. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, gave the keynote address at the Penn Ag Democrats meeting on Saturday, while Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, who just won a second term in office, headlined the annual Republican meeting on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike Firestine, chair of the PA Ag Republicans said the GOP could not have had a better election. In Pennsylvania, that meant a GOP sweep of the row offices, adding two U.S. House members, and flipping one of the states U.S. Senate seats. Im not going to stand up here and give people lectures we all know what happened, Fetterman told Democrats. Garrity, a Bradford County resident, spent the bulk of her speech highlighting the work the Treasurers office has done during her first term, but also discussed the most recent election results. Ive done it now five times, visited all 67 counties, and thats why I really wasnt surprised when Donald Trump won, because everywhere I went, you could feel that it was like 2016, Garrity said. It wasnt so much like 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firestine called Garrity, who received more votes than any candidate in Pennsylvania history, our poster child. During her campaign, Garrity attempted to walk back previous statements she made saying that we know Trump won in 2020. Fetterman, wearing his usual hoodie and shorts, referred to the Democrats from rural areas as the experts and unsung heroes in the party who lived this, noting that many of them understood how Donald Trump would perform in rural areas. You live in parts of Pennsylvania that understand that Trump was going to come in strong and understand why we didnt get the outcome that we wanted, Fetterman said. You guys probably have a better idea of all of that. Garrity pointed to U.S. Sen. Dave McCormicks victory over three-term Democrat Bob Casey, calling it fantastic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I was in DC, optimism was everywhere, which was such a refreshing change from the past four years, Garrity said. She added that she was in Washington D.C. on Friday to celebrate McCormicks swearing in. So we have a new president who knows how to get the job done, even though theyre throwing everything against the wall to make it difficult for him when he takes office. But Im not, Im not worried at all hes going to get it done, Garrity said. Firestine, highlighting Trumps victory, said the places he visited during the campaign made a difference, but also touted the ads they ran having a positive impact getting the vote out among Amish and Mennonites in Pennsylvania. I can report we spent a lot of money on this years election, Firestine said. We put several ads in the Lancaster Farming news, and they were excellent ads that we had put together. I never got more calls from the ads than I ever did. I mean, they caught everybodys attention, and I really think that helped with the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Todd Zimmerman, Chairman of the Schuylkill County Democratic Committee, said the national Democratic Party should have a permanent field organizer in each congressional district in all of the battleground states and also called for the party to launch a blue collar bus tour in the heartland. Others in attendance said Democrats needed to focus more on rural areas in Pennsylvania, and suggested the party use billboards promoting a phone number so they can call and get the facts about the party. One day after formally becoming the Democratic ranking member of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) also spoke at the Democratic gathering at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Craig offered a roadmap for how she believes Democrats can once again win back the hearts and minds of rural communities across this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Folks, its hard, but it aint that hard. We have to show up. We have to shut up and listen to people, again, as Democrats and what they care about and what matters to their lives, Craig said. Craig said she represents one of the most evenly divided congressional districts in the nation. She said she secured another term in the U.S. House, in part, by outperforming in the rural communities throughout her district. We dont have to win in rural communities, Craig said. We gotta lose by less. Craig made a pledge to those in attendance that Democrats would get back out on the national Ag circuit, including appearances on Farm Radio, Fox News, and podcasts where those communities are, which resulted in applause from attendees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We gotta go where they are, Craig said. And for Gods sake, this administration is going to give us plenty of opportunity to point out the error of the policy. While both parties discussed the importance of passing the Farm Bill, they differed on how they think it will look. With GT at the helm, working with our new president, I am very optimistic that were going to see a good farm bill enacted, Garrity said, a reference to U.S. Rep. Glenn GT Thompson (R-15th District). Fetterman said he was hoping the Farm Bill would be finished in the previous session of Congress, but wasnt surprised it was not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So now they have the majority and its going to change a lot, am I wrong?, Fetterman said. A lot of that might happen that I dont support, or Ill be sad to see some of those things, but my values arent going to change. But Im going to try to make sure that theres a lot we can work on together, he added. Craig and Thompson, who spent time together on Saturday at the Pennsylvania Farm Show for a listening session, will play a prominent role in the negotiation of the next Farm Bill. She told attendees that if Republicans want a Farm Bill with their four seat majority, it is going to have to be a bipartisan Farm Bill. Craig said it was devastating for the Houses Democratic congressional caucus to lose U.S. Reps. Matt Cartwright and Susan Wild, who both lost in November. One of the lone bright spots for Democrats in Pennsylvania during the 2024 election happened in rural Cambria County with state Rep. Frank Burns (D-72nd District) winning reelection to maintain the partys one seat majority in the state House, which was mentioned by Pennsylvania Democratic Party Chairman Sharif Street at the meeting. CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Millersville man was arrested Tuesday for allegedly raping and threatening a Cumberland County hotel employee. Lower Allen Township Police issued an arrest warrant for the suspect, 28-year-old Michael Cates, in August 2024. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Morning Weather Forecast According to the Lower Allen Township Police, on February 11, 2024, officers were dispatched to the Courtyard Marriott at 4921 Gettysburg Road for a reported rape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the victim told officers that a man had requested food to be brought to his room, which the victim, a hotel employee, did. Police say Cates later ordered more food and when the employee brought Cates his food a second time, he allegedly pulled them into his room and forced himself onto them. Police said officers determined Cates had allegedly used a fake name to rent the room. Additionally, video surveillance of the suspect from the scene matched Cates tattoos and facial hair. The victim later identified Cates and the suspect. According to police, on Jan. 7, 2025, Cates was arrested and charged with rape, device fraud, and rape threat of forcible compulsion. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. The Defense Department has added dozens of Chinese firms to a list of companies that are prohibited from working with the Pentagon and defense industry due to their alleged ties with Chinas military, including the massive tech firm Tencent. The updated blacklist, published Tuesday on the federal register, also includes the company Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL), which makes batteries for Tesla, the electric car company owned by billionaire Elon Musk, a close ally of President-elect Trump. The list additionally includes Chinese drone company Autel Robotics, which, along with company DJI, has attracted intense scrutiny on Capitol Hill for national security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The companies now considered as Chinese military firms work in a variety of sectors, including the semiconductor chip industry, telecommunications, machinery and technology. Both CATL and Tencent have denied working with the Chinese military, known as the Peoples Liberation Army. CATL, the largest electric vehicle battery maker in the world, said in a statement that it has never engaged in any military-related business or activities, so this designation by the Department of Defense is a mistake. The designation does not restrict CATL from conducting business with entities other than DoD and is expected to have no substantially adverse impact on our business, the company said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will proactively engage with DoD to address the false designation, including legal action if necessary, to protect the interests of our company and shareholders as a whole, it added. Tencent, which owns several popular video games and tech platforms like messaging service WeChat, said in a statement that it was neither a Chinese military company nor a military-civil fusion contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base. Tencent called its inclusion on the blacklist a mistake and said it would work to resolve the issue with U.S. officials. The Chinese company said its business would not be affected because the list only prohibits working with the Pentagon and defense industry. The U.S. and China have engaged in more provocative actions against each other in the past few months, with the Biden administration restricting Chinese access to technology like semiconductor chips and Beijing adding American companies to its sanction list. 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 Daniel Wiessner and Phil Stewart (Reuters) - The U.S. Department of Defense will consider granting honorable discharges to more than 30,000 gay and bisexual veterans who were barred from serving in the military because of their sexual orientation, legal filings showed on Monday. Honorable discharges could make the veterans eligible for medical and other benefits. The department and five plaintiffs jointly moved for approval of a settlement that would end a 2023 proposed class action claiming that the servicemembers' constitutional rights to due process and equal protection were violated. The Defense Department denied wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Pentagon policy known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell", which was in place from 1993 to 2011, barred openly gay and bisexual people from military service and provided for "other than honorable" discharges of those who revealed their sexual orientation. Under the settlement filed in San Francisco federal court, the Defense Department would create a streamlined process for veterans to have their sexual orientation removed from discharge paperwork. The department also agreed to review requests to upgrade veterans' discharges to honorable. Chelsea Corey of law firm Haynes Boone, one of the lead attorneys in the case, told Reuters that including veterans' sexual orientation on the paperwork demonstrated intentional discrimination. Discharges listed as "other than honorable" can bar veterans from receiving various benefits including healthcare, loans, job opportunities and tuition assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corey noted the settlement would allow some of those affected to finally access veterans' medical and other benefits. The deal must be approved by U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph Spero, who is scheduled to hold a hearing on Feb. 12. The Defense Department and the U.S. Department of Justice did not respond to requests for comment. About 14,000 people were discharged from the military under Don't Ask, Don't Tell. More than 20,000 others had been discharged since 1980 because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation, according to filings in the lawsuit. (Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York and Phil Stewart in Washington, D.C., Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Cynthia Osterman) Laura Cooper, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia,who played a key role in coordinating US military aid to Kyiv, has stepped down from her position at the beginning of 2025. Source: European Pravda, citing Politico Details: Cooper, who served in the Pentagon for more than 20 years, was instrumental in coordinating large-scale deployments of US military aid to Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her last position at the US Department of Defense, Cooper established strong relationships with many Ukrainian government officials. According to Politico, she is regarded in Kyiv as "an honest broker in negotiations". Cooper first gained media attention in 2019 when she was summoned to Congress to testify about former President Donald Trumps attempts to pressure Ukraine into investigating Joe Biden. Her testimony focused on the delay in providing Ukraine with US$400 million in military aid allocated by Congress for training purposes. She stated during the hearings that the funds were "held without explanation" and US officials "began to raise concerns about how this could be done in a legal fashion". Pentagon and State Department officials who worked closely with her, speaking to Politico on condition of anonymity, expressed fears that she might face persecution during Trumps presidency for her testimony and ties to Biden-era Ukraine policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cooper's duties at the Pentagon are currently being temporarily handled by Steven Schleien, the head of the Office of Defense Continuity and Mission Assurance, which ensures the uninterrupted functioning of the US administration in crisis situations. Background: It was previously reported that Trump-appointed Special Envoy for the Russia-Ukraine war, General Keith Kellogg, has postponed his visit to Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! The Pentagon awarded defense-technology firm Kratos a contract worth up to $1.45 billion to help increase its hypersonic flight-testing cadence. The five-year contract is part of the second phase of the Pentagons Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed program, or MACH-TB. The first phase of the program, led by Leidos, focused on designing and demonstrating a testbed. Through MACH-TB 2.0, the Pentagon wants to significantly increase the number of hypersonic test flights. MACH-TB 2.0 will provide an affordable bridge between hypersonic ground tests and system level flight tests. This will reduce overall hypersonic development risks and time and provide rapid transition of innovative hypersonic technologies to the warfighter, Kratos said in a Jan. 6 statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The award, which is largest-ever for the company, follows major flight successes for two Kratos hypersonic systems. Its Erinyes vehicle flew in June as part of a Missile Defense Agency test, reaching hypersonic speeds on its first flight. The firm developed the vehicle in three years for under $15 million and is pitching the system as an affordable option for DODs hypersonic testing needs. In October, the companys Zeus solid rocket motors flew for the first time, paving the way for a potential production program in the first quarter of this year. Kratos was a subcontractor for MACH-TB 1.0, which supported more than 25 test flights. For the programs next phase, the firm will play a prime integration role, leading a team of contractors that includes Leidos, Rocket Lab and Purdue University. Hypersonic systems can fly and maneuver at speeds above Mach 5. In recent years, the U.S. has made a push toward testing and fielding hypersonic weapons as China and Russia demonstrate progress on the technology. In November, Russia fired a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MACH-TB was created in 2022 as part of that push, with a goal of helping improve the Defense Departments lagging hypersonic test infrastructure, which has slowed U.S. hypersonic weapons development. The effort is led by the Pentagons Test Resource Management Center and the Naval Surface Warfare Centers Crane Division. The programs flying testbed is designed to validate hypersonic subsystems, advanced materials and other technologies as a system is being developed. Prior to the effort, programs rarely had opportunities to test individual systems and components in a hypersonic flight environment before a full-up flight test. Vice President Kamala Harris has gone viral this week for an awkward incident during a swearing-in of a newly-elected senator from Nebraska. Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP News During the swearing-in ceremony for Republican Sen. Deb Fischer, her husband, Bruce Fischer, has gone viral for seemingly ignoring Kamala Harris's attempt to shake his hand. 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 CSPAN / Twitter: @NoLieWithBTC At the start of the full video, Harris warmly greets Sen. Fischer and her family as they approach. "How are you, hi," Harris says to Sen. Fischer's husband as he walks to stand beside his wife. C-SPAN Sen. Fischer then gestures for her husband to stand closer to the vice president as he holds the Bible for her to swear in on, but he is seemingly reluctant. "It's okay, I won't bite," Harris says, seemingly recognizing his hesitation. "I'm not gonna bite." Sen. Fischer can be heard laughing while her husband looks at Harris with a serious facial expression. C-SPAN Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the conclusion of the ceremony, Harris tells Sen. Fischer, "Congratulations, thank you for your work," and shakes her hand. C-SPAN Harris then reaches out to shake Bruce Fischer's hand, but he hands his wife the Bible, avoids eye contact, mumbles 'thank you,' and places his hand into his pocket. C-SPAN This is Harris's reaction afterwards: C-SPAN The clip has now received over 14 million views, and many people online are describing Bruce Fischer's actions as "petty." "So petty. Of course shes above it all like a BOSS!" Kerstin Emhoff, the second gentleman's ex-wife, wrote. So petty. Of course shes above it all like a BOSS! https://t.co/tQd2z5yfxp Kerstin Emhoff (@keprettybird) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CSPAN / Twitter: @keprettybird "The way so called adults act on the political stage is so deeply troubling. He acts like Harris did something to him personally to act like this." The way so called adults act on the political stage is so deeply troubling. He acts like Harris did something to him personally to act like this. https://t.co/WlZ8j829my Walter M. Kimbrough (@HipHopPrez) January 6, 2025 CSPAN / Twitter: @HipHopPrez "They have no home training," another user agreed. They have no home training https://t.co/Yfr3eWVmCy Elie Mystal (@ElieNYC) January 6, 2025 CSPAN / Twitter: @ElieNYC "I bet he has Christian or something in his bio" I bet he has Christian or something in his bio https://t.co/QA1TkAHx9W Bakari Sellers (@Bakari_Sellers) January 6, 2025 CSPAN / Twitter: @Bakari_Sellers One user made a connection between Fischer's treatment of VP Harris and the outcome of the 2024 election. "Keep thinking there was some messaging issue for Democrats. Keep thinking visits to midwestern diners will get to 'the real reason' people re-elected a felon responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths. THIS is the truth of America... right here." Keep thinking there was some messaging issue for Democrats.Keep thinking visits to midwestern diners will get to "the real reason" people re-elected a felon responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths.THIS is the truth of America... right here. https://t.co/ccQWzlOkz1 Darryn M. Briggs (@darryn_briggs) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CSPAN / Twitter: @darryn_briggs Many Black users sympathized with Harris's experience of being disrespected as a Black woman. "What an absolutely pathetic display of fragility and hate. The bare minimumshaking someones handis apparently too much for these people. This is cave-dweller behavior, plain and simple. No class, no decency, just pure spite," this user wrote. What an absolutely pathetic display of fragility and hate. The bare minimumshaking someones handis apparently too much for these people. This is cave-dweller behavior, plain and simple. No class, no decency, just pure spite. pic.twitter.com/R5FcpEkIt3 Brian Allen (@allenanalysis) January 6, 2025 CSPAN / Twitter: @allenanalysis "Black woman to Black woman, I recognize every single breath, facial expression, and physical reaction to what Kamala Harris is experiencing. So no, you can't gaslight me because I SEE her," this user wrote. @ReecieColbert via Twitter / Via x.com "Nothing says MAGA more than an old white man holding the Bible while refusing to acknowledge a powerful woman." Nothing says MAGA more than an old white man holding the Bible while refusing to acknowledge a powerful woman. Covie (@covie_93) January 6, 2025 Twitter: @covie_93 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some users suggested giving Bruce Fischer the benefit of the doubt regarding his intent toward Kamala Harris, mentioning that he was holding a cane in his right hand. Still, a video clip of Bruce Fischer making direct eye contact and shaking then-vice president Mike Pence's hand after his wife was sworn in has resurfaced. C-SPAN Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And during his wife's swearing-in ceremony in 2013, Fischer also greeted and shook hands with then-vice president Biden. So, what are your thoughts? Was this a misunderstanding or something more intentional? Let us know in the comments below. PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) More than 5,000 people from 25 states came to see Kermit, Bert and Miss Piggy on the final days of the Jim Henson: Imagination Unlimited exhibit at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. The museum broke its all-time gallery admission revenue goal four times in the last two weeks. Between Friday and Sunday, more than 5,000 people came out to see the exhibit, said John Morris, the museums president and CEO. Thousands of people who had never been to the greater Peoria region before now know were here. They now know our museum is here, but they know our Peoria Civic Center is here. They know the wildlife park is here. They know the new cancer institute at OSF is here. They know that we have a region that they never knew about before, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exhibit which was on its last stop before heading off to Europe brought massive attention to Downtown Peoria. Consider this: The exhibit went viral as TikTok and other searches netted close to a million digital hits in just a month. People from 25 different states many of whom didnt have relatives in Peoria came to see the exhibit Some 400 people joined as museum members due to the exhibit. Over the busy weekend, Morris said he met people from all over the country. I met people from Buffalo, New York. I met people from Maryland, I met people from Dallas who had specifically driven to the Peoria Riverfront Museum, and first-time visitors by the thousands to the Greater Peoria region. Chicago visitors, new members from Chicago. So weve been saying for a long time, were a national level, National quality museum, he said. And regarding those digital hits, museum officials say patrons posted TikTok videos about their experiences in the gallery and 10 of those garnered at least 10,000 likes. One video had more than 700,000 likes, the museum said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Morris says the fun is really just beginning. This summer, he said. the worlds largest dinosaur exhibit will be coming to Peoria, on loan from the American Museum of Natural History, which is in New York. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. > < 23:51 Army rescues 8 civilians injured in accident in Manipur File image The Army has rescued eight civilians who had met with a road accident in Manipur's Kangpokpi district, a defence statement said on Wednesday. The accident took place near Khunku Naga village in Leimakhong area late on Monday. An information was received from the chief of Henjang village... Read more > 23:46 Modi condoles death of war hero who fought four war against Pak Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief at the death of veteran soldier Havaldar (retd) Baldev Singh, who fought four wars against Pakistan, and lauded him as a true epitome of courage and grit. Singh, a revered war hero, passed away at his residence in Jammu and Kashmir's... Read more > 23:39 ED seizes gold worth Rs 3.36 cr from bank locker of cricket betting accused The Enforcement Directorate recovered and seized gold valued at Rs 3.36 crore from bank locker of Sanjay Agrawal, an accused in the illegal cricket and tennis betting case in Indore, the agency said on Wednesday. The ED, Indore conducted search operations on January 7 at the bank locker... Read more > 23:19 Lokayukta raids eight govt officers in Karnataka File image The Karnataka Lokayukta sleuths on Wednesday raided places linked to eight government officers, who are accused of amassing assets disproportionate to their known sources of income. The raids led to the disclosure of Rs 21.05 crore worth assets of the accused officers. The Lokayukta... Read more > 22:46 Three Mysuru jail inmates die after consuming cake essence for 'kick' Three jail inmates in Mysuru prison have died after consuming food essence for cake, police said on Wednesday. While Madesh from Satagahalli in Mysuru died on Tuesday night, Nagaraj and Ramesh from Chamarajanagar breathed their last on Wednesday. They consumed the essence on December 28... Read more > 22:23 4 people killed in stampede at Tirupati Cops struggle to control the huge number of devotees at Tirupati./ANI on X Four people died and several feared hut in a stampede that occurred at Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva Darshan tokens on Wednesday. The mishap occurred at the Vishnu Nivasam in Tirupati during the distribution of Vaikunta Dwara Sarva... Read more > 21:56 ISRO's satellite docking experiment put off again Representational image ISRO on Wednesday once again postponed the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) involving two satellites, citing excessive drift during a crucial manoeuvre. The SpaDEx was supposed to take place on January 9. 'While making a manoeuvre to reach 225 m between satellites the drift was found... Read more > 21:44 Malayalam actress seeks action over offensive social media comments Malayalam actress Maala Parvathi/ANI Photo Malayalam actress Maala Parvathi has lodged a complaint with the police against an individual who allegedly made offensive comments about her on social media, as well as a YouTube channel that created a video using still photos from her movies.Based on the complaint filed by the... Read more > 21:32 Suspected HMPV case detected in Gujarat A suspected case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection has been reported in Himatnagar city of Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, officials said Wednesday. The blood sample of the patient -- an eight-year-old boy, who is currently on a ventilator in the Intensive Care Unit of a private... Read more > 21:14 Pritish Nandy, editor extraordinaire, passes away Pic Courtesy: Anupam Kher/X Pritish Nandy, under whose editorship the Illustrated Weekly of India blossomed into the most vibrant news publication of its time, passed away today. He would have been 78 on January 15. An award-winning poet and a film producer, Nandy redefined the rules of journalism with his... Read more > 20:46 Actor Varun Dhawan buys 2 luxury flats in Mumbai for Rs 87 cr: Square Yards Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan/File image Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan has purchased two luxury apartments, one with his mother Karuna David Dhawan and another with his wife Natasha, in Juhu, Mumbai, Square Yards said on Wednesday. Real estate consultant Square Yards said it has reviewed registration documents. Dhawan acquired... Read more > 20:22 India hands over defence equipment to Maldives Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets his Maldives counterpart Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, in New Delhi/ANI Photo Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held bilateral discussions with the Defence Minister of Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on Wednesday. During the meeting, India handed over defence equipment and stores to the Maldives, as per the island nation's request. Both sides... Read more > 19:35 Tricolour hoisted on 73-foot mast near India-China border in Arunachal File image A tricolour on a 73-foot-tall mast now stands at Gorsam Chorten in Jemithang, the first administrative centre near the India-China border in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang district. The flag was hoisted on Wednesday in the presence of over 200 locals and Indian Army personnel. Organised... Read more > 19:30 Foreign secretary meets Taliban's FM in Dubai Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held talks with Afghanistan's acting foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai on Wednesday. In the meeting, the Afghan side underlined its sensitivities to India's security concerns, according to an Indian readout. India would consider engaging... Read more > 19:08 Dance bar raided in Maha's Panchgani, 21 arrested File image As many as 21 persons have been arrested after women were found performing obscene dances at a hotel near the hill station of Panchgani in Maharashtra, the police said on Wednesday. The owner of Hotel Hirabaug, located in Bhilar in Satara district, was among the accused, officials... Read more > 18:42 Gold revisits Rs 80,000-mark on increased buying File image Gold prices reclaimed the Rs 80,000-level in the national capital on Wednesday driven by increased buying from jewellers and stockists, according to the All India Sarafa Assocation. The precious metal of 99.9 percent purity rose Rs 300 to touch nearly a one-month of Rs 80,000 per 10... Read more > 18:28 BSE Sensex top losers today Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended marginally lower in a volatile session on Wednesday, as investors stayed on the sidelines ahead of the earnings season amid lower economic growth projections. Besides, a depreciating rupee and persistent foreign fund outflows also dented... Read more > 17:56 Elephant goes berserk during religious ceremony in Kerala, 23 injured File image Twenty-three people were injured when a captive elephant ran amok during a religious ceremony at a mosque near Tirur on Wednesday.Of the injured, one person is in critical condition after being picked up and tossed by the elephant, the police said.The remaining 22 individuals suffered minor... Read more > 17:38 HC grants 28-day furlough to gangster Arun Gawli Gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli/File image The Nagpur bench of the Bombay high court has granted a 28-day furlough to gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli, who is currently serving a life sentence in Nagpur for the 2007 murder of a Mumbai Shiv Sena corporator. A division of Justices Nitin Sambre and Vrushali Joshi on Tuesday allowed... Read more > 17:10 Delhi college, school get bomb threats, police rush teams File image Two educational institutes in the national capital received bomb threat e-mails on Wednesday, Delhi Fire Services said. We received two different bomb threat calls from Lady Shree Ram College (sic) at 11.40 am. Another bomb threat call was received from Tagore International School in East of... Read more > 16:56 Delhi police arrest private firm director for Rs 3.2 cr investment fraud The Delhi police arrested the director of a private company for allegedly defrauding multiple individuals by promising high returns on their investments, officials said on Wednesday. The arrest followed a probe into allegations of cheating and fund misappropriation amounting to Rs 3.2 crore,... Read more > 16:20 'Temples' found in Firozabad, excavation underway Authorities in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday began excavation at two sites after the purported discovery of 'ancient temples' there.The digging was being carried out under police supervision, following appeals from Hindu right bodies.One of the two sites, located near Mohammadi... Read more > 15:42 1984 riots: Verdict in murder case against Sajjan Kumar likely on January 21 A Delhi court is likely to deliver on January 21 its verdict in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots murder case against former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar.The case is linked to the alleged killings of two men in the Saraswati Vihar area during the riots.Special Judge Kaveri Baweja, who was scheduled to pass the... Read more > 15:19 Commenting on woman's body sexual harassment: HC The Kerala high court has held that a comment on a woman's 'body structure' is a sexually coloured remark which would constitute penal offence of sexual harassment.The ruling by Justice A Badharudeen came while dismissing a former Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) employee's plea to quash the... Read more > 14:40 Villagers in Maharashtra face sudden hair loss Representational image People from several villages in Maharashtra's Buldhana district have complained of sudden hair loss leading to baldness within a few days, prompting the authorities to initiate testing of local water sources for possible contamination. A health department team started a survey in the... Read more > 14:27 'Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama' to release in India on January 24 Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, the 1993 Japanese-Indian anime film, is set to hit Indian theatres on January 24, the movie's distributors said on Wednesday.The animated film was earlier scheduled to be released with new dubs in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu alongside its original English version... Read more > 13:41 AAP leaders reach PM's residence, denied entry Aam Aadmi Party leader Saurabh Bharadwaj, along with other party leaders, reached the Prime Minister's residence on Wednesday after trying to enter the Delhi CM' residence and challenging the Bharatiya Janata Party to show the PM's residence to the public.The visit comes after BJP's remarks... Read more > 13:30 Sambhal court to hear Jama Masjid-Harihar temple case on March 5 A local court has fixed March 5 as the next date of hearing in a case connected to the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid and its survey at Chandausi. The Supreme Court has directed all the lower courts not to entertain new suits seeking surveys of any place of worship until further orders. We... Read more > 12:47 Will Trudeau's Desi minister succeed him as PM? IMAGE: Anita Anand. Photograph: Patrick Doyle/Reuters Canadian Minister of Transport Anita Anand is emerging as a potential contender to succeed Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister. Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, signaling the start of a leadership transition within his government. Anand, a prominent figure in Trudeau's cabinet, is being... Read more > 12:10 Jeweller Boby Chemmanur taken into custody Prominent businessman Boby Chemmanur was taken into custody on Wednesday by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the sexual harassment case filed by a Malayalam actress, official sources said on Monday. He was taken into custody from Wayanad, a police officer with the Kochi City... Read more > 12:06 Simultaneous polls panel holds first meeting The parliamentary panel constituted to scrutinise the two bills on simultaneous elections held its first meeting on Wednesday.Officials of the Ministry of Law and Justice are briefing the panel members on the provisions of the proposed laws, sources said.Headed by Bharatiya Janata Party MP PP... Read more > 11:39 BJP MLA denies meeting Ajit Pawar to seek Munde's removal Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Suresh Dhas has said he did not meet Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party head Ajit Pawar to seek minister Dhananjay Munde's removal in connection with the case of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh's murder.Dhas has been targeting NCP leader Munde... Read more > 11:02 US Congressman challenges Adani probe Challenging the decision of the Biden Administration to investigate the activities of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his companies, an influential Republican lawmaker on Tuesday said such selective actions risk damaging critical alliance partners.In a strongly worded letter to United States... Read more > 10:43 ASK Investment, Monarch Networth apply for MF licence Khushboo Tiwari/Business StandardBlackstone-backed ASK Investment Managers and financial service firm Monarch Networth Capital have applied with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for a mutual fund licence.While Monarch Networth Capital filed its application on... Read more > 10:30 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas kicks off in Bhubaneswar The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention kicked off in Odisha's Bhubaneswar on Wednesday, with over 5,000 delegates from India and abroad expected to attend the three-day event, officials said. The convention began with the inauguration of the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas by External... Read more > 10:10 Fire in building near Mumbai hospital Representational image A fire broke out in a three-storey residential building near the Sion Hospital in Mumbai on Wednesday morning, officials said. There was so far no report of any casualty, they said. The blaze erupted on the first floor of Panchshil building on Sulochana Shetty Marg near the Sion... Read more > 10:01 1 worker dead, 8 trapped in Assam's coal mine Representational image One dead body has been recovered from the collapsed coal mine at 3 Kilo, Umrangso, in Assam where nine miners were trapped on January 6. According to a statement from an NDRF official, one body has been recovered by the divers of NDRF, the Indian army. The joint rescue operation led by... Read more > 09:25 Man who exploded Tesla Cybertruck used ChatGPT The United States Army soldier Matthew Livelsberger, who exploded a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year's Day, used generative AI tools, including ChatGPT, to plan the attack, the Associated Press reported quoting the Las Vegas police.The incident... Read more > 09:01 'Equities may deliver 8%-12% in 2025' Abhishek Kumar/Business StandardIn a year that is poised to be one of macroeconomic turbulence, with significant policy shifts and global trade uncertainties, investors should consider asset allocation strategies to capitalise on gains in all asset classes while reducing risks, Aditya Birla Sun... Read more > 08:45 Will acquire Canada by 'economic force': Trump United States President-elect Donald Trump has refused to rule out the use of military force to take control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, and 'economic force' to acquire Canada, CNN reported.While addressing a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Tuesday (local time), Trump was... Read more > 08:26 All hell will break out if...: Trump warns Hamas United States President-elect Donald Trump warned that 'all hell will break out in the Middle East' if hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are not released before his inauguration on January 20, CNN reported.While addressing a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Tuesday (local... Read more > 01:07 Engineer killed in fire at ONGC facility in Assam A senior engineer was killed in a fire at an ONGC facility in Assam's Jorhat district on Tuesday, a company spokesperson said.The incident happened at the Borholla Group Gathering Station around 3.20 pm in one of the heater treaters, used to separate oil from water, she said.While scheduled... Read more > 00:56 Woman BPO employee dies after male colleague attacks her in Pune A 28-year-old woman working with a business process outsourcing (BPO) company in Pune died after her male colleague allegedly attacked her with a sharp weapon on Tuesday evening, the police said. The attack took place in the parking space of the firm - WNS, located in Yerwada area of the... Read more > 00:27 Two Class 10 students stabbed in exam hall in Mumbai school Two Grade 10 students of a Mumbai-based school attacked two other pupils with a knife in the classroom after a dispute over sitting arrangement for internal exams, leaving them injured, the police said on Tuesday. The incident took place on Monday morning at the private school in Antop... Read more > 00:18 Odisha: BJP MP acquitted in two cheating cases for 'lack of evidence' Bharatiya Janata Party MP Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy was acquitted in two cases of cheating by a special court in Odisha's Ganjam district on Tuesday. The court also acquitted former IFS officer Abhay Pathak and his son Akash Pathak who were the co-accused in one of the two cases against... Read more > A man claiming to have suffered third-degree burns after Phoenix police held his bare torso to the ground for several minutes while detaining him last summer has filed a notice of claim against the city demanding over $15 million. The claim, which The Arizona Republic obtained through the city of Phoenix, states four officers questioned and detained 30-year-old Michael Kenyon on July 6, 2024, which had a recorded high of 114 degrees, before they held him face down on black asphalt for roughly 4 minutes, leaving serious burns across his body. As a direct consequence of your officers mistreatment of him, Mr. Kenyon spent over a month in the burn unit at Valleywise Medical Center, the claim states. Six months later, he is still undergoing physical therapy and undergoing additional surgeries to attempt to restore simple use of his body. He is permanently disfigured as a result of your officers actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim includes pictures of Kenyon lying on a hospital bed with severe burns along his arms, chest and legs. 2024 warmest on record: With little rain, long heat waves, 2024 ends as warmest year on record in Phoenix A case of mistaken identity According to the claim, Kenyons roommate called Phoenix police shortly before 2 p.m. that day to report that his laptop had been stolen and believed the suspect to be 5 feet, 5 inches tall and may have possessed pepper spray. The claim says Kenyon was at home when his roommate reported the non-violent theft and decided to walk to a nearby Circle K to buy a drink as he didnt expect police to quickly respond to reports of non-violent property theft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim then states that Kenyon was walking across the parking lot toward the store when Phoenix officers Adelbert Caraig and Eric Jusseaume pulled up behind him in a police vehicle and told him to come back. The document said Kenyon complied and answered the officers questions before the officers grabbed both of his arms within five seconds of their initial contact. The claim noted that Kenyon is 5 foot, 10 inches tall and did not match the suspect description his roommate gave police. 'Scalding' pavement leaves third-degree burns The claim added that Kenyon sat on the bumper of a nearby truck to demonstrate he had no intention to flee and that physical force was unnecessary. The document said Kenyon sat on the trucks bumper for less than 45 seconds before being told he was being detained. Two additional officers, Rowan Clarke and Salinas Jerry, joined the initial two in detaining Kenyon. All four officers piled on top of Michael, pressing him against the scalding hot pavement, the claim reads. As Michael screamed out for help, the officers pressed hard one officer at one point kneeling on his head, and pressing the side of his face into the asphalt as other officers put their weight on his torso. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After four minutes had passed, Kenyon had suffered third-degree, full thickness burns on his arms, legs, chest and face and needed help being placed in a police car due to the pain before Phoenix firefighters took him to the Maricopa County Burn Center for treatment. The claim added that firefighters administered 200 mg of ketamine causing him to be altered on arrival and unable to provide further history. It also said police confiscated Kenyons phone, preventing him from calling friends or family to tell them about what had happened to him or where he was and noted officers handcuffed him to the hospital bed despite him not being the suspect they were looking for. 'This is a City that appears to care more about harm to dogs feet than it does about human life' The claim says Kenyon endured a series of brutally painful procedures that included skin grafts over the more than 30 days he spent at the Maricopa County Burn Center and continues to undergo physical therapy to regain mobility in his arms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim cites the U.S. Department of Justices investigation into the Phoenix Police Department which found multiple instances of officers using excessive force and violating peoples civil rights. It added that the department policy doesnt appear to go over the health risks of holding someone against extremely hot pavement despite Phoenix making it a Class 1 misdemeanor to walk a dog on public hiking trails when it is over 100 degrees back in June 2016. This is a City that appears to care more about harm to dogs feet than it does about human life, the claim states. The notice of claim says Kenyon has incurred over $300,000 in medical bills from his stay at Valleywise alone, not counting the costs of rehab, physical therapy and surgeries he has undergone post-release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It notes that no amount of medical treatment can restore Kenyon to the state he was in prior to his encounter with police and argues the suggested settlement amount of $15.53 million was reasonable given the severity of his injuries. Michael is 30 years old, the claim reads. At an average life expectancy, he should live another 42 years. That is 15,330 days. We are confident that not a single one of you would choose to live in Michaels disfigured body and traumatized mind for $1,000 a day and we are confident a jury would agree that this is a modest sum for what the Phoenix Police Department has caused to him. Dan Wilson, a city spokesperson, declined to comment on the notice of claim citing pending litigation. Sgt. Phil Krynsky, a Phoenix police spokesperson, said the department's special investigations division was still reviewing the involved officers' actions as of Monday evening. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Man files $15M claim after Phoenix cops held him against hot pavement (Bloomberg) -- The Philippines has accused a giant Chinese coast guard vessel dubbed the Monster of maintaining an illegal presence in its exclusive economic zone as Beijing ramps up activities in the disputed South China Sea. Most Read from Bloomberg Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said in a post Monday on X that one of its vessels, the BRP Cabra, has been tailing the 12,000-ton Chinese patrol vessel since it was first spotted off the coast of Capones Island in the western province of Zambales on Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ships erratic movements indicate it is not engaged in innocent passage but rather asserts that it is conducting a law enforcement operation, Tarriela said in his post. In response, the crew of BRP Cabra has remained steadfast in challenging this assertion, diligently tailing and shadowing CCG-5901 to uphold Philippine sovereign rights, he added. This emphasizes the importance of persistently confronting the illegal presence of the Peoples Republic of China and ensuring the safety and security of Filipino fishermen operating in the area. The ships presence marks the latest move by China to bolster its sweeping claim to most of the South China Sea after the militarys Southern Theater Command held large scale combat readiness drills around the disputed Scarborough Shoal last month. The state-run Global Times reported on Monday that the Chinese Coast Guard is set to increase patrols in the area and stated any so-called law enforcement activities are entirely justified. It is beyond reproach for China Coast Guard to patrol and conduct law-enforcement activities in relevant waters in accordance with the law, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Tuesday when asked about the matter during a regular press briefing in Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing and Manila have been locked in long-running dispute over the South China Sea, a vital trade route that holds huge energy potential, and clashes have became more frequent as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deepened security ties with the US in a bid to assert its own claims. Bigger than a US Navy destroyer, Chinas CCG-5901 is armed with anti-aircraft guns and fuel storage capacities enabling it to undertake extended missions. It regularly sails in and around the energy-rich waters Vietnam has spent years trying to develop and was reportedly anchored in Manilas exclusive economic zone back in July. --With assistance from Philip Glamann. (Updates with remark from Chinese official in the sixth paragraph) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A man faces numerous counts of felony voyeurism after authorities say he hid a camera in the women's bathroom of a Phoenix church. Phoenix police received a call on Nov. 6, 2024, at around 5 a.m. from a woman who requested they check the phone of 55-year-old Arturo Laguna Camas after she found a camera inside the women's bathroom of the church, Casa de Oracion, near 27th Avenue and McDowell Road. Documents say a woman told police she was changing her baby's diaper in the church's bathroom when a camera fell out of the dryer. Police say a church pastor told them Camas admitted to placing the camera in the bathroom and that he shared videos he captured with his nephew in Mexico in exchange for money and child sexual abuse material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police reviewed recordings from the hidden camera, some of which went back to Oct. 20, 2024. Police say they also saw a screenshot showing Camas placing the camera in the bathroom. Detectives interviewed Camas later that day wherein he admitted to placing a small, square camera with an antenna inside the dryer of the women's bathroom and could access its data through an app on his phone. According to police, Camas told authorities he had erectile dysfunction issues and recorded women to excite himself. He denied recording or possessing any videos of children using the restroom and added he wasn't sexually attracted to children. According to official records, Camas told police he messaged people on the social media app Telegram about their sexual interests and admitted to downloading adult pornography but again denied possessing child sexual abuse material and said whoever told police he received any from his nephew was "assuming things." Police obtained a search warrant on Camas' devices. Police say they found an SD card containing four short videos of women using the bathroom. Police arrested and booked Camas into jail on four counts of surreptitious recording before a grand jury indicted him on 11 counts of voyeurism, a Class 5 felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Le Lievre, an attorney representing Camas, declined to comment on Monday. Casa de Oracion did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Camas' next scheduled court appearance is on Jan. 8 in Maricopa County Superior Court. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Police: Man accused of using hidden camera in Phoenix church bathroom WASHINGTON (DC News Now) First responders battled a fire that broke out in a multi-story apartment complex on Monday afternoon, right in the middle of a snowstorm. In a post on X made shortly before 4:30 p.m., DC Fire and EMS (DCFD) said the fire was on the first floor of a complex in the 300 block of P Street SW. Crews were able to control the fire and contain it on the first floor. Flights canceled, delayed at DC area airports Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an update shortly after 5 p.m., DCFD said it was ventilating smoke from several floors and that residents were sheltering in place as needed. No injuries were reported and crews were still checking on displacements into the evening. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Joe Biden and Jill Biden own a 6,850-square-foot home in Greenville, Delaware, a Wilmington suburb. Biden campaigned from his basement in 2020 and has hosted world leaders at his home as president. The home was the subject of a DOJ investigation into the mishandling of classified documents. In 1996, President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden purchased 4 acres of land in Greenville, Delaware, and built a 6,850-square-foot lakefront home. The Bidens also own a six-bedroom beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, but their Greenville home remains their primary residence where Biden will likely return after President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration this month. Take a look inside the Bidens' Delaware home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Bidens' primary residence is located in Greenville, Delaware, a suburb of Wilmington. An aerial view of the Bidens' lakefront home in Delaware. Earth Explorer Located 4 miles from downtown Wilmington, Greenville is a quiet town with a median home listing price of $1.11 million, according to Realtor.com. The Bidens originally purchased the 4-acre lot for $350,000, The Wall Street Journal reported. Now, it's worth at least $2 million. The home they built features three bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms, according to Zillow. Biden wrote in his 2017 memoir, "Promise Me, Dad," that he considered taking out a second mortgage on the house to support his son Beau Biden's family during Beau's cancer treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden wrote that when he told President Barack Obama of his plan, Obama said, "Don't do that. I'll give you the money." The house is situated on the banks of a 10-acre man-made pond. President Joe Biden with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz Biden brought Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese out onto the patio overlooking the pond in September. The home also features a swimming pool, an amenity Biden was known to enjoy at the official vice president's residence on the grounds of the US Naval Observatory. Biden's home was more accessible to the public while he was serving in the Senate. Wilmington News Journal reporters in front of then-Sen. Joe Biden's home. William Thomas Cain/Getty Images In 2008, reporters from the Wilmington News Journal camped out at Biden's home and played Frisbee on the lawn while waiting to see if he'd be chosen as Barack Obama's running mate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once he became vice president and then president, the property became heavily guarded. Security personnel at President Joe Biden's home in Wilmington, Delaware. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secret Service members surveil the residence when Biden visits. During his 2020 presidential campaign, Biden held virtual events from his basement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. President Joe Biden, then a presidential candidate, and Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton at an online town hall in 2020. Biden For President/Handout via Reuters Shelves in the background of Biden's video calls appeared to hold books, photos, and other mementos. As president, he has hosted world leaders such as the prime ministers of Australia, Japan, and India at his Delaware residence. President Joe Biden met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia at his home in Wilmington, Delaware. Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz Biden made frequent trips home to Delaware while serving in the White House, spending about half of his weekends in his home state. The residence features a home office where Biden has worked while serving as president and vice president. President Joe Biden on the phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin in his home office. Adam Schultz/The White House via AP, File As an outgoing US senator, Biden purchased the desk he used in the Senate to furnish his home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office has enough room to host meetings with dignitaries and staff. President Joe Biden met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia at his Delaware home. Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The spacious office has wood paneling and plush leather armchairs. Biden's home became the subject of a Justice Department investigation into the mishandling of classified documents. An image from special counsel Robert Hur's report showed a filing cabinet in President Joe Biden's home office with notebooks that were seized during the investigation. Justice Department via AP In November and December 2022, Biden's attorneys discovered classified documents in the president's former office at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, DC, and in his garage and turned them over to the National Archives. In January 2023, US Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed US Attorney Robert Hur as special counsel to investigate the mishandling of classified information. The Justice Department searched Biden's home and recovered six classified documents. Biden's personal attorney, Bob Bauer, said that the search was voluntary and that some of the items dated back to Biden's time in the Senate and as vice president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hur interviewed Biden in October 2023 about his storage of classified material. The transcripts showed that Biden described himself as a "frustrated architect" and spent large swaths of time talking about how he designed and furnished his home. "In order to try to convince me not to run for the Senate for the 19th time, my wife said, 'Look, you don't run, I'll pay for architectural school for you," Biden told Hur. Biden also shared how he "set up a theater" in his house to conduct virtual events and television appearances in 2020 because "we were campaigning out of our basement." After a yearlong investigation, Hur did not recommend charging the president with any crime, describing Biden as a "sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory." Hur's report was derided by Democrats and Republicans alike, but it foreshadowed Biden's poor debate performance, which ultimately led to him dropping out of the 2024 presidential race. Read the original article on Business Insider ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, N.C. (WGHP) Cold temperatures, snow and ice have created hazardous road conditions across the Piedmont Triad, leaving first responders across the region working to handle crashes, stranded drivers and dangerous conditions. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported more than 200 calls for service across Troop D since icy weather began with the majority coming from Rockingham County. Bridges, overpasses and shaded areas remain particularly dangerous as these surfaces freeze quickly. In response to the high call volume, Rockingham County EMS has adjusted its approach, reducing responses to non-emergent calls to prioritize safety and ensure resources are available for emergencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional staff have also been brought into the countys 911 center, and more personnel have been placed on EMS trucks to prepare for another busy night. If its an ice-covered or snow-covered roadway and you come up behind an emergency vehicle running traffic, what avenues do they have to go? Emergency Services Director for Rockingham County Rodney Cates said. By going to a non-emergent response, it enhances the safety of all the motoring public as we try to respond to calls. Tow truck operators are also feeling the strain. Kimberly Perdue, owner of Tarheel Towing, said her team has been flooded with calls for assistance. Especially on these country roads. Theyre not getting any kind of salt or brine put down, so just take your time, Perdue said. Dont get upset because the tow company may tell you an hour or an hour and a half. We are doing the best we can Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One common mistake drivers make is pulling off to the side of the road, thinking its the safest option. However, icy conditions often leave vehicles stuck. A lot of folks think they can get off on the side of the road, and with it being so wet, we probably will end up with a lot of winch-outs. If they dont wreck, they will end up getting stuck, Perdue said. With freezing conditions expected to continue, officials are urging drivers to plan ahead and avoid travel if possible. Those who must drive should slow down, allow extra time and be alert for black ice. Recognize those problem areas and certainly exercise caution, Cates said. Give yourself some extra time It may be a lifesaving measure. 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 FOX8 WGHP. PATASKALA, Ohio (WCMH) Police are investigating the Christmas Day death of a woman who may have been injured by a pig. According to Pataskala police, an officer responded to a request for a welfare check on Mink Street. The caller was concerned when a family member, Rebecca Rigney, did not show up for a holiday gathering and could not get in touch with her. The caller also told police that Rigney had recently undergone surgery and had other medical issues. An officer arrived at 11:47 a.m. and found Rigney dead on the steps of her front porch. Rigney reportedly had suffered trauma injuries to her lower extremities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National Blood Donor Month: where you can donate The officer observed a large pig enter the property from around the corner of the home and was able to get the pig to leave. It was discovered that the pig belonged to a neighbor. Police then noticed evidence of the pigs presence around the scene. The officer and a sergeant determined the pig may have contributed Rigneys injuries, although theyve yet to determine what led to the injuries. A second pig was discovered at the home and the owner was informed they would need to be quarantined until further notice. The Licking County Coroners Office confirmed the cause of her death was not by pigs eating her and did not specify the connection of the animals to Rigneys death. 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. An Etihad Airways flight was forced to abort a high-speed take-off that led to two tyres bursting, as high exhaust gas temperatures in the engine caused an emergency halt of the Boeing plane. Etihad Airways flight EY461 was due to take off from Melbourne, Australia to Abu Dhabi at 6.15pm local time on Sunday, 5 January for a 13-hour flight when the flight crew halted the take-off due to operational reasons. Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) said in a statement to The Independent that the flight crew decided to reject the take-off due to observing a high exhaust gas temperature indication from the aircrafts right engine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the aborted take-off, two of the aircrafts tyres deflated, but no further damages or injuries were reported, the ATSB added. In an updated statement, the airline told The Independent that our pilots made the decision to reject take-off for operational reasons. This procedure is the safest course of action to protect everyone on board in such situations. The aircraft was safely brought to a stop, with emergency services attending as a precaution. As part of standard procedure, foam was applied to the landing gear tyres, and two tyres deflated a normal occurrence in such cases. Despite various reports stating that the flight was stopped after the tyres burst, the airline said the tyres deflated as a result of the aborted take-off and was not the cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video footage from the scene showed fire services dousing the aircrafts landing gear in foam, which Melbourne Airport also said was a precautionary measure. Our crew ensured guests were informed and supported throughout the process, the Etihad spokesperson continued. All guests have been re-accommodated on alternative flights, and those requiring hotels have been provided with appropriate arrangements. The safety, comfort, and care of our guests and crew remain our highest priority, the Etihad spokesperson added. We regret any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. Melbourne Airport has confirmed that the Boeing 787, which was carrying 289 passengers during the take-off, had sustained damage to its tyres, and needed repairs before it was able to be towed off the runway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passengers have described the plane speeding up as it travelled down the runway in preparation for taking to the air but was jolted as the plane suddenly braked and then came to a halt on the runway. Data from the flight tracking website FlightRadar24 shows that the plane reached just around 292km/h before the take-off was aborted. Passenger Jonathan Dover told ABC News that he first felt apprehension when he noticed the firefighters dousing the planes tyres. "That was the first time you sort of realised something was really amiss," he said, but praised the pilot for keeping the passengers informed, saying that he sounded calm throughout. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the airline and Melbourne Airport said that emergency services applied foam to the tyres on the aircrafts landing gear as a routine precaution. The halted plane reportedly remained on the runway for more than 12 hours before it was towed away the following day and the runway was able to reopen again. A Melbourne Airport spokesperson told news publications on Sunday: "Etihad Airways flight EY461 rejected take off this evening when departing Melbourne Airport for Abu Dhabi. "The Aviation Rescue and Firefighting Service responded to a request from the aircraft and deployed firefighting foam as a precaution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Due to damage to the aircrafts tyres, we have been unable to tow it off the runway. "Repairs are currently underway. All passengers have disembarked the aircraft and have been bussed to the terminal. "We continue to have one runway available for operations, which will be used for all arrivals and departures. Disruptions to other flights have been minimal." The airport said in an update on X that All 289 passengers safely disembarked the aircraft and were bussed to the terminal. The Etihad aircraft has been safely towed from the runway, inspections have been completed and the runway reopened for operations this morning. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) Despite the winter weather in other parts of the country, Pitt-Greenville Airport said flights havent been impacted at this time. However, airport officials said that reaching your connecting flight could be an issue since planes are flying into larger hubs across the country. PGV officials said airlines make sure the planes are de-iced and the landing gear is working. And in fact, we just before you got here, we had a meeting just to kind of start prepping for the snow plan because, you know, snow doesnt happen often in North Carolina, PGV Airport Director Bill Hopper said. So, we got together, just discussed, you know, whos ready to do what? Make sure all the equipments ready and just, just kind of go over the plan and make sure were prepared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hopper also said passengers need to keep an eye on their airline messages for the most up to date status of their connecting flights. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The people of India have voted Indira Gandhi back into power less than three years after rejecting her emergency dictatorship. When the last of the 196 million votes in national elections were counted, her Congress (Indira) party had won 351 of the 525 contested seats in the lower house of parliament, or Lok Sabha. Mrs Gandhis triumph virtually wiped out her partys two major contenders. Neither the Janata nor the Lok Dal party gained the requisite 54 seats to qualify for recognition as the official opposition. Underscoring the extent of her victory, was the election of her son Sanjay, who had been blamed for many of the excesses of the emergency rule. He is out of prison on appeal against his conviction for stealing then destroying the master copy of a film satirizing his mothers rule. Mrs Gandhi, who had ruled India for 11 years until 1977, successfully appealed to Indias rural masses with her two election slogans, Banish Poverty and Law and Order. During the 63-day campaign, the 62-year-old gave up to 20 speeches a day during a 40,000 mile tour of 384 constituencies. But Mrs Gandhis political comeback will be viewed with suspicion. During the 19 months of emergency rule, introduced after she was accused of electoral malpractice, democracy was suspended, many opposition politicians were imprisoned and a compulsory birth control programme was introduced. When Mrs Gandhi sought to have the regime legitimised through the polls, she was defeated by Morarji Desais Janata party. The last time she appeared in parliament was in 1978 when she was expelled on charges involving harassment of government officials during the emergency. She is still under investigation on charges of abuse of power, although the assumption is these will now be shelved. Her electoral victory is partly due to the break-up last summer of the fragile coalition which formed the Janata party, leaving caretaker prime minister Charan Singh in control. Courtesy BBC News In context Indira Gandhis first formal speech after her election victory spoke of compromise, even for her opponents. She said the nation had to be lifted from the ruinous state into which it had fallen. Her son Sanjay was later killed in an air crash. In 1984 she ordered the storming of the Golden Temple in Amritsar to flush out Sikh militants who were pursuing self rule for Punjab. Two months later she was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards. Her eldest surviving son, Rajiv, succeeded her as prime minister. He, too, was assassinated, in 1991, by supporters of the Tamil Tigers in retaliation for ordering the deployment of troops in Sri Lanka. His widow, Sonia, took over the leadership of the Congress party in 1998. In 2004, she won the general election and returned Congress to power. But she unexpectedly refused to take up the post of prime minister, handing it instead to former finance minister Manmohan Singh. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, District 9 Councilman Khari Mosley and other city leaders were back at Maple Ridge Apartments in East Hills Monday afternoon for a follow-up visit. They said they wanted to see if repairs have been made and vowed to address what they call deplorable conditions. They dont deserve to be treated like this, Mosley said. I know Im disturbed. I know the mayor is incredibly disturbed of what weve seen. City leaders said some families at the apartment complex have been living with a rodent infestation and bugs for months. The major complaint they said is that at least a dozen units dont have heat right now and havent for a few weeks in these frigid temperatures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody should have to live in the conditions theyre living in right now, Mayor Gainey said. Its cold out here. They got babies. No one should have to come home to this. Nobody. A fire in one of the units just two days after Christmas brought the issues to light and prompted the mayor and councilman to check out the complexs living conditions the next day. >>> She was a joy Maple Ridge tenants come together in grief after 2-year-old dies from apartment fire Praise Lemons, 2, died shortly after she, her mother and five-year-old sister were rescued from their burning apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arthur Jones lived across the hall from the family and said Praise was a joy. Its sad it takes such a tragic loss, an innocent baby that didnt even get a chance to live yet, for us to be heard about any type of situation, Jones said. The property manager told Channel 11 hes waiting on an HVAC company to fix the heat and gave tenants space heaters to use in the meantime. The citys Permits, Licenses & Inspections Department director said the condemned building has smoke and water damage and needs a new fire alarm before the 11 families that were forced out can move back in and feel safe. We are offering to expedite and streamline the process as much as possible, said PLI Director David Green. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For weeks, the mayor said he hasnt been able to get ahold of the property owner to fix all the problems. We have not yet, as of today, still been able to talk to the owners to discuss the conditions that is happening up here in these hills, Gainey said. Now that tenants have the citys attention, theyre hopeful. Were going to keep speaking up about our issues, Jones said. Were not going to give up. Were going to keep fighting. The displaced families are currently staying in a hotel. City leaders said once all the work is done to bring the building up to code, families can move back in within a matter of weeks, but Green said that all depends on the property owner. The unit where the fire broke out will take longer because it has to be completely rebuilt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 11 reached out to MMS Group, the property owner of Maple Ridge Apartments, for comment but have not heard back. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW FRUITA, Colo. (KREX) A new pizza restaurant has recently opened its doors in Fruita. Over the weekend, the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Trailblazer Pizza Company, 456 Kokopelli Blvd. The location is the former home of Pablos Pizza in Fruita. Brooklyn Reuwsaat and Caleb Umberger, the co-owners, previously worked at Pablos before taking over the pizzeria. According to a press release, the restaurant makes its dough fresh daily and uses the freshest ingredients and preps their sauces, dressings and veggies daily to ensure the highest quality and taste. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuwsaat and Umberger have a passion for pizza making as they fell in love with it while working at Pablos, the release said. The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Trailblazer Pizza Company to our business community, Kayla Bowers, executive director of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, said in the release. We are confident that their commitment to quality and customer service will make them a success. We invite the community to visit Trailblazer Pizza Company and experience their delicious food and welcoming atmosphere and wish them all the best in their new venture. Reuwsaat and Umberger said they appreciate the communitys support. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we could not be more grateful to be a part of this community, the co-owners said in the release. 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 WesternSlopeNow.com. DENVER (KDVR) A police pursuit on Interstate 70 near Floyd Hill ended with the help of snowplows. A crew of about seven Colorado Department of Transportation workers were using radios to communicate with one another as the chase unfolded. Driver blames GPS after car abandoned on Keystone ski run I called the team and asked them whos willing to help, said Michael Zamora, a supervisor with CDOT. I wasnt going to tell anyone what they needed to do. They all were willing to help. They all bought in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The situation happened on Jan. 2 around 11:30 p.m. as officers were patrolling I-70. One officer noticed a black Hyundai Accent without a working tail light. License plate readers flagged the vehicle as stolen out of Northglenn connected with a robbery in Lakewood. Officers tried to stop the driver several times including using two tire deflation sticks, but when that didnt work, they set up a roadblock. The suspect also managed to get around that striking a deputys vehicle in the process. It was decided we were going to go up Floyd Hill halfway and get three across in between concrete barriers and thats where we were going to set up and bring the chase to a halt, said Zamora. What most people dont understand is we are more involved than just plowing snow. We respond to emergencies, accidents, calls for help, broke down motorists. Nine times out of ten we are probably first to the scene with anything that happens out there. Henry Hinkins, one of the drivers who has worked for CDOT for 17 years, said hes never had to jump in to stop a chase before. He walked FOX31 through what happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denver-area man thankful for life after 3 days stranded in Colorados mountains As they got closer, we decided this was a good place to stop because it wasnt wide enough for him to go anywhere else. So we stopped and stayed in our trucks and within five seconds they had the car surrounded with their guns out on him, said Hinkins. It definitely gets your adrenaline pumping, said Zamora. The first thing I started thinking about is the traveling public and who was in between them and what was going on. Also, the safety of the crew, too. They were doing their job, too, removing snow. Luckily, no one was injured and there was only minor damage to the deputys vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 27-year-old suspect from Denver had two active warrants out of Broomfield. He was arrested on those and a slew of new charges including aggravated motor vehicle theft. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Coroners and sheriffs deputies descended on a Jet Blue plane at the Fort Lauderdale airport in Florida late Monday after two bodies were found in the landing gear compartment. JetBlue issued a statement to the Deseret News Tuesday confirming there were two people found deceased in the landing gear of one of the companys aircrafts. The bodies were found during a routine inspection. This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred, per the JetBlue Communications release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How the two people wound up in the compartment is unknown and an investigation is underway. The aircraft had traveled from New Yorks John F. Kennedy International Airport, departing at 8:20 p.m. and landing in Florida at 11:03 p.m., per CBS. The two people were pronounced dead at the scene and it is unclear how long the two of them had been in the compartment, per The New York Times. The planes day started in Kingston, Jamaica, it then flew to JFK and next to Salt Lake City, before returning to JFK for the final flight to Florida. According to CBS, the plane had arrived in Kingston on Jan. 5 and overnighted at the airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The identities of the deceased are unknown, but they are both male. Jamaican media is reporting that it is believed the deceased are Jamaican nationals but that has not been confirmed, per CBS. Stowaways in landing gear compartments According to The New York Times, landing gear compartments have long been used by those trying to stowaway on a plane undetected. It is unknown whether the two deceased were stowaways. It has proven deadly to hide in landing gear compartments in the past. As the compartments open and close for takeoff and landing, it is possible fall out and people have fallen to their deaths. But there are still risks for those who manage to stay inside the compartment, such as being crushed by the landing gear. Other hazards include severe temperatures, pressure changes and lack of oxygen. Many stowaways die of hypothermia, per The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to CNN, over 77% of people who stowaway on planes this way die. A similar incident in Hawaii On Dec. 24, a body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines aircraft in Maui, Hawaii, that had flown in from Chicago, per CBS. There is still no explanation for how that person got there. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) An upcoming trip to Kyiv by U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps special envoy for Ukraine and Russia has been canceled but will be rescheduled, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Tuesday. The planned meetings between Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general who has long been Trumps top adviser on defense issues, and Ukrainian officials are extremely important, Sybiha told reporters in the Ukrainian capital. I am confident that this meeting will take place in its own time, he said during a news conference with his visiting Icelandic counterpart. We are in contact to clearly define the timeline for its organization and to ensure that the meeting is as meaningful as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps arrival in the White House on Jan. 20 injects another measure of uncertainty into how the almost 3-year-old war might unfold and whether it can end in the foreseeable future. Ukraine relies on Western and especially U.S. military backing to keep fighting. But Trump has criticized the billions of dollars the Biden administration has spent on Ukraine. He has also said he could end the war in 24 hours, though he hasnt elaborated on how he might do that. Ukrainian officials are eager to sway Trump on sticking with Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised Trumps strength and said the American presidents unpredictability could work in Ukraines favor. Ukrainians have expressed hope tinged with pragmatism about Trumps election victory last November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war is draining the resources of both sides, though military analysts say the conflict is less sustainable for smaller Ukraine, and the wars recent trajectory has not been in its favor. Its undermanned army is under strain on the front line, especially in eastern areas, though Ukrainian officials say its 5-month-long incursion into Russias Kursk border region shows that Russia is vulnerable. Ukrainian forces are clinging on to their diminishing defenses in the eastern stronghold of Kurakhove, where Russian attackers have recently pushed forward after a monthslong battle, a military official said Tuesday. Russias Defense Ministry claimed Monday its units had taken Kurakhove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defending troops are holding their positions on the towns western outskirts, as Russian forces pummel urban areas in a tactic they have used across eastern and southern Ukraine, according to Viktor Trehubov, the local Ukrainian army spokesperson. The situation in Kurakhove is currently very difficult because a significant part of the city has been destroyed, Trehubov told Ukrainian television. When a town is completely destroyed, it becomes impossible to hold it because there are no viable defensive positions left. Any building can serve as a fortification, but if there are no buildings, if its just scorched earth, its impossible to hold the defense, Trehubov said. ___ AP journalist Hanna Arhirova contributed to this report. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine A $17 billion data center project was proposed for Coweta County on New Years Eve. According to development impact records submitted by Atlas Development, LLC, the data center and campus is called Project Sail, and if completed, boasts an estimated yearly tax revenue for Coweta County higher than the current property tax base. The plans submitted by Atlas Development for construction include 13 buildings at 378,000 square feet each, plus substations for the data center. Should project development go according to their plans, the company estimates the build will be complete on Dec. 31, 2036. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent data for tax revenue in Coweta County for the 2024 fiscal year was $107,999,613. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Similarly, the estimated revenue for the 2025 fiscal year in Coweta County was $112,192,199, according to budget documents. The estimated tax revenue for Project Sail, if it moves forward and is completed, was $1,593,585,386. That means Project Sail would be responsible for 14.2 times the projected tax revenue for this fiscal year. Documents from the development impact site and plans did not provide details on how that number was reached, but in the state of Georgia, tax revenues for property taxes are generally calculated at 40% of the full market value. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More directly, the Coweta County Tax Commissioner explained to Channel 2 Action News how taxation would work in a normal tax parceling situation for development. For easy math, a $17 billion property will generate less than 1% of its market value in property taxes. So for that market value it would be less than $170 million in property tax revenue. That would be shared between the county, school and fire district, Commissioner Justin McMichael said, adding that The DRI estimate could be factoring in sales tax for materials, income tax for jobs, but said he did not have the expertise on those specifics to add anything further. Channel 2 Action News has reached out for development plans and clarification from Atlas as well as requests for information from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Developments of Regional Impacts Office, and are waiting for their responses. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] WEST PALM BEACH Noah Galle used to post TikTok videos of himself barreling down the highway at break-neck speed, promising $25 to anyone who could guess how fast he drove. On Monday, a judge ordered him to share another video with the story of the night he drove his BMW at 150 mph into the back of an SUV, killing all six people inside. The court-ordered clip is part of a larger plea deal negotiated between Galle, the son of prominent Wellington attorney Craig Galle, and Chief Assistant State Attorney Al Johnson. In exchange for Galle's guilty plea, Johnson offered a 12-year sentence, a fraction of the 55-year minimum sentence he faced for causing one of Palm Beach County's deadliest wrecks. Galle, 20, accepted. Flanked by his team of high-powered attorneys and accompanied by his family to court on Monday, Galle prepared a statement of remorse but did not read it himself. He asked defense attorney Liz Parker, a former traffic homicide prosecutor, do so instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's not a day goes by that Noah doesn't think about his actions and what impact they have had on so many lives," she said. "He wishes every day that he had died in the accident and not the victims." 'She was mid-sentence, laughing': Family describes moment DUI driver killed young mother of 2 Circuit Judge Sherri Collins, the only judge who agreed on Friday afternoon to oversee Monday morning's hearing, sentenced him accordingly. When asked why the resolution came together so quickly, Johnson answered plainly. "The new administration starts tomorrow," he told the judge. Alexcia Cox took the oath of office as the county's new state attorney on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson added later, outside of the courthouse: "This is under the Dave Aronberg administration. Im not going to comment past that, because its not really appropriate." Noah Galle, center, walks into a Palm Beach County courtroom with his father Craig Galle, left, and attorney Michelle Suskauer, right. Noah Galle pleaded guilty to six counts of vehicular homicide on January 6, 2025 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Galle was sentenced to 12.5 years in prison for driving his BMW M5 at 151 mph on State Road 7 and crashing into an SUV killing all six passengers near Delray Beach in 2022. Victims' family didn't attend driver's plea conference According to court records, Galle liked to record videos of himself speeding down local roads and Interstate 95 in the BMW M5 for which he paid more than $100,000 in cash. Galle's arrest report does not indicate whether he was recording on Jan. 27, 2022, the night of the crash on State Road 7 west of Delray Beach. Investigators with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said he reached a speed of 151 mph moments before he rear-ended a Nissan Rogue SUV traveling at a quarter of his speed. The crash killed the Nissans driver, Mirlane Julceus, 45, of West Palm Beach as well as her passengers: Michel Louis Saint, 77, of Lake Worth Beach; Marie Michelle Louis, 60, of Wellington; Remzie Michel, 53, of Palm Springs; Filaine Dieu, 46, of Lake Worth Beach and Vanice Percina, 29, of West Palm Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All were leaving work from Pero Family Farms on State Road 7 near Atlantic Avenue at the time of the 11 p.m. wreck. 'So deeply sorry': Lake Worth driver addresses family of man he killed in high-speed crash Noah Galle appears in a Palm Beach County courtroom where he pleaded guilty to six counts of vehicular homicide on January 6, 2025 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Galle was sentenced to 12.5 years in prison for driving his BMW M5 at 151 mph on State Road 7 and crashing into an SUV killing all six passengers near Delray Beach in 2022. Neither the victims' relatives nor Storm Tropea, the traffic homicide prosecutor who handled the case up until its conclusion, attended Monday's plea conference. In a memorandum explaining why Galle deserved a fraction of the 55-year minimum sentence he faced, defense attorneys Parker and Doug Duncan pointed to Galle's remorse, his efforts to fundraise for the victims' families, and several "significant undiagnosed medical conditions" they blame for the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson said he told the victims' next of kin about the resolution and received mixed reactions to it. One was "devastated" but didn't object, he said. One wished the state hadn't prosecuted the young man at all. Others felt the sentence was just. Traffic homicide investigator Sean Ramsey, who spearheaded Galle's investigation and arrest, couldn't say either way. "I dont know how to feel about it, to be honest," he said afterward in a courthouse hallway. "I dont get to decide that. Its not what I do. Im just glad it's over." As part of his sentence, Galle must post a video to social media, at least one minute in length, sharing his story and advocating for the importance of safe driving. He must also complete 800 hours of community service, complete a 12-hour driving course and attend a panel where crash victims share their stories about how their injuries affected their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Collins also revoked Galle's driver's license for three years. Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Prosecutors spare teen who killed 6 in 150-mph crash from life in prison KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) The caregivers charged after the death of a elderly Knoxville woman have now entered plea agreements, court records show. The 2020 death of Brenda Sue Crutchfield lead to charges of murder, aggravated neglect and evidence tampering for four caregivers. Trial waivers filed in September show Ira Earl Shinpaugh Jr., 62, and Teresa Shinpaugh, 63, pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide and aggravated neglect of an elderly adult. How a box of explosives ended up at Knoxville recycling business Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crystal Shinpaugh Dalton, 51, pleaded guilty to financial exploitation between $10,000 and $60,000. The fourth defendant, Randy Shinpaugh, died. See more top stories on WATE.com All three will be added to the Tennessee Department of Human Services Abuse Registry. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for Friday, January 10. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) Those at the Warren City Police Department are asking for the publics help to identify a suspect involved in a recent convenience store break-in. Police are asking for help in identifying one of the suspects involved in the breaking and entering of A1 Express on Dec. 22. Courtesy: Warren Police Department Reports state two male suspects were captured on security footage entering through the drive-thru window around 6:45 a.m., filling a garbage bag with items from the store, taking lottery books from the back office, and removing cash from the drawer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video shows the two men climb back out through the window, where they left in a dark red four-door SUV, according to reports. When officers asked why the window was unlocked, reports state a district manager told authorities they did not know why an employee did not set the alarm or lock the window. Anyone with information regarding the suspects identity is asked to contact the Warren Police Department at 330-841-2512 under WPD case#24-29720. Nadine Grimley 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 WKBN.com. UPDATE: On Jan. 7, 27-year-old Davin Rolle was arrested in connection with the incident. According to the Lebanon Police Department, Rolle is charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangerment. LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) The Lebanon Police Department (LPD) is still working to identify a man who allegedly opened fire outside of a Walmart late Saturday night. According to police, officers were sent to a shots fired call at the Walmart along South Cumberland Street just after 10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS | Investigation underway after shots fired at Lebanon Walmart Authorities reported there was initially lots of confusion as people rapidly sought shelter and fled from the store. At some point, Lebanon police put out a shelter-in-place order for the surrounding area since the whereabouts of the suspect were unknown. Aisle by aisle, and with AR-15s readily available, law enforcement worked to clear the store. Within 15 minutes of the store being evacuated, officers reportedly determined that the shooter was gone and no injuries had been reported. Investigators told News 2 the incident is believed to have stemmed from some sort of altercation between two men in the store, which later escalated in the parking lot with at least one shot being fired outside the stores grocery section. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bodycam video showed the chaotic moments as police arrived and ordered people to safety. RELATED: Long-time Lebanon resident shares concerns after shots fired at Walmart Officers arrived on scene within three minutes and immediately began clearing the Walmart there, said Zach Patton, public information officer for the Lebanon Police Department. Surveillance video provided by the police department shows a man in a toboggan hat leave the store. Police said he is believed to be the shooter. Courtesy: Lebanon Police Department Courtesy: Lebanon Police Department Authorities told News 2 the man in the photo above got into an altercation with another shopper, and once outside, both men continued their disagreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, the department shared surveillance video that showed the suspect holding what appeared to be a pistol in his right hand. At some point during the exchange, police said the man in the toboggan fired at least one shot that hit the ground, which was practically at point blank range from the other individual. However, nobody was struck by the gunfire. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The alleged shooter reportedly fled from the Walmart in a light-colored four-door vehicle. Officials said they spoke with the other man who was involved in the altercation and are working to determine what led to the violent incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are still trying to understand how these people knew each other, if all, added Patton. If you recognize the gunman or have any information about the incident you are asked to call the Lebanon Police 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 WKRN News 2. By Alimat Aliyeva A South Korean court has once again issued an arrest warrant for the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Seok-youl, Azernews reports. "On January 7, an arrest warrant was issued, which was re-applied for by the department in relation to the suspect [surnamed] Yoon," the department informed. A day earlier, the department's staff filed a request with the Seoul Western District Court to "extend the validity of the arrest warrant." The previous arrest warrant had been issued on December 31 and was valid until January 6. On January 3, representatives of the joint investigation team attempted to arrest Yoon Seok-youl but left the premises of his residence after a standoff with his guards that lasted over five hours. His security team, upon presentation of the warrant, refused to allow a search of the complex. The Anti-Corruption Investigations Department stated that the arrest was virtually impossible due to the security measures in place. According to South Koreas opposition, the guards were armed with firearms. Law enforcement agencies repeatedly appealed to Acting President Choi Sang-mok, requesting that the security service refrain from obstructing the arrest. On January 7, during a parliamentary hearing, the head of the Anti-Corruption Department, Oh Dong-un, apologized to the public for the failure of the arrest attempt. In response to criticism and accusations that the department was unprepared for the January 3 operation, Oh stated that "many unforeseen circumstances" had arisen, for which he took responsibility. He promised to "thoroughly prepare" for the second arrest attempt, emphasizing that it may be the "last opportunity." Yoon Seok-youl's lawyers argued that the warrant was invalid, as the Office of Anti-Corruption Investigations against High-ranking Officials did not have the authority to investigate the rebellion case. The Anti-Corruption Directorate began to take the lead in the case, as the law mandates that other investigative bodies transfer such cases to the directorate if requested by its head. The ministry also noted that the rebellion charges were linked to the abuse of official authority. This political turmoil highlights ongoing tension in South Korea between the government and opposition factions, with allegations of corruption and abuse of power dominating the political discourse. The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) reported receiving 35 complaints about illegal tour guide activities in 2024. The government conducted joint inspections, resulting in reports against 17 suspected illegal guides. Provisional data indicates over 34.9 million tourists visited Macau last year. In response to this influx, the MGTO continues to monitor the tourism industry and collaborate with other departments to combat illegal activities disrupting the market. Last year, the MGTO carried out 1,615 inspections at entry and exit ports, tourist attractions, and shopping areas to ensure orderly tourism operations. Related IRONDALE, Ala. (Trussville Tribune) Neighboring police departments are sending their sympathies after Irondale PD Lt. Mark Meadows was struck by a car and killed early Monday morning while directing traffic. The crash occurred on Grants Mill Road near Overton Road shortly before 7 a.m. as cars were leaving Church of the Highlands 21 Days of Prayer event. Irondale police officer killed by car while on duty Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our thoughts and prayers are with the Irondale police family and the family and friends of Lt. Meadows, Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush said. We are prepared to help them in any way needed during this difficult time. The Birmingham Police Department expresses our deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lieutenant Mark Meadows from the Irondale Police Department. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time, BPD wrote. Lt. Meadows 30-plus years of dedicated service to the community will not be forgotten. EOW January 6, 2025. We will continue the watch from here. Today, the Irondale Police Department mourns the loss of one of their own, Moody PD posted. The Moody Police Department, along with agencies all across this State and Nation, grieves with you and honors your fallen officer in this time of tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the officers family, department, colleagues, and friends. Rest in peace. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with Irondale Police Department, their friends, and their families, Leeds PD wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our hearts and prayers are with the Irondale Police Department, Springville PD posted. Sending our deepest sympathies to our friends at Irondale Police Department, the St. Clair County Sheriffs Office wrote. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ENDICOTT, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) New York State Police at Endwell are encouraging Endicott residents to keep their cars locked and valuables out of sight after a recent smash and grab incident. Troopers are looking for a suspect that has been stealing items from unlocked cars. The suspect is also being accused of smashing vehicle windows to access the items. On January 5, a Trooper responded to a home on Debonair Drive in Endicott for a reported theft. The owner discovered that the window to their SUV was smashed and a purse that was inside the vehicle was taken. Troopers believe the crime took place sometime between late January 4 and into the early morning of January 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During an investigation, a Trooper discovered that a tall, thin man who was wearing a dark colored hoodie, dark pants, and black shoes with a bicycle was captured on several home several cameras in the surrounding area. Officers say it is hard to decipher the mans face in the footage. The suspect is believed to have been on Debonair Drive, Wildwood Drive, Ventura Boulevard, Monterey Drive, Taft Avenue, and Country Club Road between 4 and 5 a.m. If you have any information regarding the incident, please contact New York State Police at (607)561-7400 and reference Case NY2500011229. Surveillance video can be viewed below. 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 WIVT - News 34. Authorities are investigating after a juvenile was hit by a truck and killed in Leominster on Monday. According to police, officers responding to the area of Market Basket on Sack Boulevard around 6:07 p.m. for a report of a pedestrian struck found a juvenile victim suffering from critical injuries. The victim was transported to Leominster Hospital where they were pronounced deceased a short time later. Their identity is not being released at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say the victim was hit by a 2018 white Chevrolet Silverado registered out of Maine. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with police, according to officials. An investigation into the facts and circumstances of the crash is being conducted by the Worcester County District Attorneys Office, the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit, the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis & Reconstruction Unit, & the Leominster Police Department. The Leominster Police Department extends their sincere condolences to all who are impacted by this tragic event, Chief Ryan D. Malatos said. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BRENTWOOD, N.Y. (PIX11) A Suffolk County police officer is fighting for his life after he was critically injured in a crash on the Long Island Expressway Sunday, authorities said. Officer Brendon Gallagher was conducting a traffic stop on westbound Long Island Expressway near exit 55 around 6:09 p.m. when another driver sped by in a Ford Mustang going around 95 to 100 mph, according to Suffolk County Police Acting Commissioner Robert Waring. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gallagher then got into his police vehicle and drove after the Mustang. The officer activated his lights and sirens in an attempt to pull the Mustangs driver over, according to the Suffolk County Police Department. The driver of the Mustang lost control of the vehicle and sideswiped Gallaghers vehicle, authorities said. Gallaghers vehicle left the road and overturned. The Mustang also went off the road and hit a light post, police said. The damage to the police vehicle was so significant it took our emergency services officers over 30 minutes to extricate him from the vehicle, Waring said. Arrest made after Long Island girl kidnapped, held captive for weeks: sources Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gallagher was flown to a hospital in critical condition with life-threatening injuries, authorities said. The nature of his injuries are so severe, they are typically considered not survivable. So the fact that he is still here with us is nothing short of a miracle. We are asking everyone to keep positive thoughts for his recovery, Waring said. Dr. James Vosswinkel, a doctor at Stony Brook University Hospital where Gallagher is hospitalized, said the next couple of days will be critical in the officers recovery. The next 24 to 48 hours are obviously very critical to see if this degree of trauma affects his lungs and the rest of his organs or if were going to make it past that. Then theres obviously multiple other steps we need to get through, Vosswinkel said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cody Fisher, the alleged driver of the Mustang, was apprehended by an off-duty Nassau County police officer who was driving by at the time of the incident, police said. Fisher, 29, of Brentwood, was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, assault, unlawful fleeing a police officer, and reckless driving, according to the Suffolk County Police Department. 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. QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) Police say they are on the hunt for a group of individuals wanted for stealing ATMs from businesses across the city. Investigators say the individuals are using vehicles and license plates that they have stolen to drive around the city, break into commercial establishments, and take the ATMs. More Local News PIX11 News obtained surveillance video from one of the inside cameras of Harjeet Singhs bodega in East Elmhurst, Queens. His ATM was stolen just before Christmas Eve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The store was closed. At 2:30 a.m., they broke the door, entered, and took the ATM within 5-10 minutes, said Singh. Singh explained that the perpetrators first broke two outside security cameras before smashing down the front door to forcibly remove the ATM. He added he will not be getting a new one as he worries it could get stolen again We are too much worried, the business is already slow and people you know. Scary here, stated Singh. According to the NYPD, 48 other incidents like this one have occurred citywide between Sept. 19 and Dec. 26, 2024. NYPD unveils plan to improve subway safety, but safety concerns persist Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October 2024, PIX11 News reported on a similar robbery pattern by two suspects targeting these money machines in 20 businesses across Brooklyn and Manhattan between June and mid-September. The NYPD confirmed to PIX11 News Monday evening these two robbery patterns are not related. PIX11 News asked Singh how much money the ATM had when it was stolen. $1500 to $2000, he responded. Meanwhile, Kenny Patel who has been a bodega owner for 30 years says in addition to not leaving much cash in the ATM overnight, he and his team are staying vigilant 24/7. We have the alarm on. We are four people sometimes we call the police and everything, said Patel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And as police continue to track down these suspects, they ask anyone with information to contact them. That number is 1-800-577-tips. 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). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) Police are asking for the publics assistance identifying a breaking-and-entering suspect who targeted a Smithfield home Monday morning. (Courtesy: Smithfield Police Department) The man was caught on surveillance footage forcing his way into a home off of Ridge Road, near the North Providence town line, around 9:30 a.m., according to police. Police said a resident interrupted the suspect during the act and he took off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect is believed to have been driving an older model Nissan Altima. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Smithfield Police Department by calling (401) 231-2500 or emailing Detective Jacqueline Pilatti at Jpilatti@smithfieldpoliceri.gov. 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. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Detectives are asking for the publics help identifying a person of interest in an ongoing homicide investigation. Surveillance footage released Monday shows the person of interest walking near where 49-year-old Keith Singleton was shot and killed in Providence. (Courtesy: Providence Police Department) (Courtesy: Providence Police Department) Officers found Singleton off of Monticello Street back in November suffering from several gunshot wounds. SEE ALSO: Suspect sought in Providences 11th homicide of the year Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Singleton was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Investigators believe Singleton was targeted. Anyone who can identify the person of interest is asked to contact Detective Alicia Hersperger at (401) 527-8988 of Detective Matt Nadeau at (401) 659-5964. 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. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) The Pawtucket man accused of stealing a Providence police cruiser and taking it on a joyride into Connecticut over the weekend had been escorted out of Rhode Island Hospital moments prior, according to a police report obtained by 12 News. Jared Remson, 27, allegedly drove off with the cruiser, which was parked outside the hospital, early Saturday morning. The police report states that officers escorted Remson out of the building after he became combative and was throwing chairs in the emergency waiting room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were simultaneously assisting another man into the emergency waiting room as Remson was being removed from the hospital, police said. Surveillance footage reviewed by police reportedly showed Remson looking around briefly before hopping into the empty cruiser and taking off. BACKGROUND: Man accused of driving off with police cruiser outside RI Hospital It took approximately five minutes for the officer, identified in the police report as patrolwoman Mendez, to realize her cruiser was missing. The police report states that Mendez immediately notified her captain, who issued an alert to surrounding departments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police tracked the cruisers location using Mendezs cell phone, which she had left inside the car. Connecticut State Police then spotted the cruiser crossing the state line on I-95 South about an hour later. But when they attempted to pull Remson over, he sped off. Troopers pursued the vehicle off the highway into Groton, where Remson turned onto Route 117, reaching speeds over 100 mph at times, according to police. Police said Ledyard officers successfully deployed stop sticks near where Route 117 intersects with Route 2A. Remson was taken into custody without incident after the cruiser slowed to a stop on Route 2A near Hope Fuller Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cruiser was towed to the Montville Barracks with damage to the front and rear passenger side tires, police said. Remson remains in custody in Connecticut after failing to post $50,000 cash bond. Hes facing several charges, including first-degree larceny, reckless driving and engaging police in a pursuit. Remson was scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday, but his court appearance was postponed until Feb. 4. He will also face additional charges out of Rhode Island pending extradition. Close 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. The nations largest police union endorsed Pam Bondi, President-elect Trumps pick for attorney general, ahead of her confirmation hearings in the Senate. In a letter to the Trump transition team first shared with The Hill, Patrick Yoes, national president of the Fraternal Order of Police, expressed strong support for Bondi and said she was a longtime ally of the FOP from when she served as Floridas attorney general. Yoes, in the letter to Trump, said the FOP would work with Bondi on Department of Justice programs to support state and local law enforcement and promote partnerships between state and local agencies and federal counterparts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of the more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I commend your selection of Ms. Bondi to serve as Attorney General, and we look forward to resuming our partnership with you and your Administration, Yoes wrote. Trump nominated Bondi in November after former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) withdrew himself from consideration for the role. She was a senior adviser on Trumps first impeachment defense team and was also among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his New York hush money criminal trial that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. Pam Bondi spent decades fighting crime as a prosecutor and Attorney General in Florida and is historically qualified to serve as Attorney General of the United States, Trump-Vance transition spokesperson Gates McGavick told The Hill in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She will be a constant champion for law enforcement officers as she returns the Department of Justice to its core mission of fighting crime, restoring law and order, and keeping Americans safe. The FOP endorsed the president-elect in the 2024 election, and Trump addressed a gathering of the group in September in Charlotte, N.C. Trump at the time vowed to sign legislation to strengthen protections for police officers and crack down on Marxist prosecutors, and he called for a return to proven crime fighting methods, including stop and frisk and broken windows policing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 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. Integrity Technology Group said the move by Washington had no factual basis. The company firmly opposes the U.S. Treasury Departments 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 Chinas 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. 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. 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. ELAINE KURTENBACH, BANGKOK, MDT/AP During a speech with French ambassadors in Paris, Radoslaw Sikorski, the Polish Foreign Minister, warned that European countries may soon find themselves under "strong pressure" to reach a peace deal with Russia, which is waging war against Ukraine. Source: Radoslaw Sikorski on his X (Twitter) Quote from Sikorski: "We may soon face strong pressure on our way to reaching an agreement with Moscow. But what kind of deal can a reasonable Europe agree to? Certainly, it is not an easy deal that will allow Moscow to recover. Europe is much stronger than Russian leaders believe. Russia is much weaker than many Europeans think." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: He said that Ukraine deserves and needs peace. Sikorski stressed that peace should be on fair terms, not capitulation. Sikorski noted that they should not impose strict time limits on their support (for Ukraine - ed.), as this would encourage Russia to continue fighting. He specified that instead, they should do everything possible to improve Kyiv's position in future negotiations. Background: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the first talks on ending the war would be held with US President-elect Donald Trump after his inauguration and then with Russian leader Vladimir Putin if the American leader offered "strong security guarantees for Ukraine". Support UP or become our patron! OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) An Oklahoma Christian political science professor says he believes its likely President-Elect Donald Trump will grant pardons to most if not all Americans criminally charged in connection to the January 6 Capitol Riot. Exactly four years ago, supporters of Trump attacked the Capitol while congress attempted to certify results of the 2020 Presidential Election. Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the certification of the 2024 election results Monday without incident. January sixth is a polarizing day because it was either kind of a moment of truth or it was the culmination of misinformation, said Oklahoma Christian professor Trey Orndorff. It was spellbinding in a way, but terrifyingly spellbinding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orndorff said hes had a lot of time to reflect on the day itself, after speaking with News 4 about it four years ago. He says the biggest impact hes noticed is on the United States judicial system; which he says is far more polarizing than it ever has been. He says that American favorability of the court system has shifted away from being more positive from his perspective. Firefighters affected by cold temperatures while fighting SW OKC house fire 13 Oklahomans have been charged in federal court, accused of taking part in the riot. News 4 has followed scattered updates on all of them since charges were announced. Nine people charged have pled guilty, three people have pled not guilty and one case is in limbo. Sentencing for those found guilty regardless has ranged from up to nine months in prison, probation and a fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not surprising that Oklahomans were a part of that because we were a primary target for those kinds of misinformation, said Orndorff. Dova Winegart, from Fairview, was found guilty in court last month after pleading not guilty. She was sentenced to four months in prison, 12 months probation and fines. In Winegarts latest court filing asking for the sentencing to be held off on being formally filed, she points out President Joe Bidens recent pardon of his son Hunter. She also addresses President-Elect Trumps intention to issue day one pardons to Americans criminally charged for January 6. I think it is likely that President Trump pardons many, if not most, of the individuals involved in January sixth, said Orndorff. And I often think we do not take President Trump at his word, I think wrongfully so, because he often does what he says hes going to do. News 4 asked Orndorff about the implications of those pardons under Trumps final term and for future presidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lane closures expected in downtown Edmond I dont know if pardons have become more common, but what might change is why we are pardoning individuals and traditionally speaking pardons havent been done for those kinds of highly politicized reasons. Orndorff also noted that he thinks the United States wont become more polarized if the pardons are granted. He says the news will likely make the headlines and make some people angry; but that he doesnt think theyll fuel another major conflict. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A slab of uplifted rock larger than Italy sits in the center of the American Southwest. It is called the Colorado Plateau, and it is a beautiful place, higher ground in every sense. What little rain falls onto the plateau has helped to inscribe spectacular canyons into its surface. Ice Age mammoth hunters were likely the first human beings to wander among its layered cliff faces and mesas, where the exposed sedimentary rock comes in every color between peach and vermillion. Native Americans liked what they saw, or so it seems: The plateau has been inhabited ever since, usually by many tribes. They buried their dead in its soil and built homes that blend in with the landscape. In the very heart of the plateau, the Ancestral Pueblo people wedged brick dwellings directly into the banded cliffs. Some of the best-preserved Ancestral Pueblo ruins are located near two 9,000-foot buttes in southeastern Utah, 75 miles from where its borders form a pair of crosshairs with those of Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. The Ancestral Pueblo were not the only Native Americans in the area. Other tribes lived nearby, or often passed through, and many of them describe the buttes as Bears Ears in their own languages. Thousands of archaeological sites are scattered across the area, but they have not always been properly cared for. Uranium miners laid siege to the landscape during the early atomic age, and in the decades since, many dwellings and graves have been looted. In 2015, five federally recognized tribesthe Navajo Nation, the Zuni, the Hopi, the Mountain Ute, and the Utejoined together to request that President Barack Obama make Bears Ears a national monument. The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, as they called themselves, wanted to protect as many cultural sites as possible from further desecration. They asked for nearly 2 million acres centered on the buttes. In 2016, Obama created a monument of roughly two-thirds that size. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The borders of that monument have been shifting ever since. In late 2017, President Donald Trump erased all but roughly 15 percent of the protected land, in the name of reversing federal overreach and restoring local control; and in the years that followed, mining companies staked more than 80 new hard-rock claims within its former borders. The majority were for uranium and vanadium, minerals that are in demand again, now that a new nuclear arms race is on, and tech companies are looking for fresh ways to power the AI revolution. In 2021, President Joe Biden put the monuments borders back to where theyd startedand the miners claims were put on hold. Now Trump is reportedly planning to shrink Bears Ears once again, possibly during his first week in office. With every new election, more than 1 million acres have flickered in and out of federal protection. People on both sides of the fight over Bears Ears feel jerked around. In southeastern Utah, the whipsaw of American politics is playing out on the ground, frustrating everyone, and with no end in sight. Vaughn Hadenfeldt has worked as a backcountry guide in Bears Ears since the 1970s. He specializes in archaeological expeditions. Back when he started, the area was besieged by smash-and-grab looters. They used backhoes to dig up thousand-year-old graves in broad daylight, he told me. Some of these graves are known to contain ceramics covered in geometrical patterns, turquoise jewelry, and macaw-feather sashes sourced from the tropics. Thieves made off with goods like these without even bothering to refill the holes. Later on, after Bears Ears had become a popular Utah stopover for tourists passing through to Monument Valley, the looters had to be more discreet. They started coming in the winter months, Hadenfeldt told me, and refilling the ancient graves that they pillaged. The majority of the people follow the rules, but it takes so few people who dont to create lifelong impacts on this type of landscape, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hadenfeldt lives in Bluff, Utah, a small town to the southeast of Bears Ears. Its population of 260 includes members of the Navajo Nation, artists, writers, archaeologists, and people who make their living in the gentler outdoor recreation activities. (Think backpacking and rock climbing, not ATVs.) The towns mayor, Ann Leppanen, told me that, on the whole, her constituents strongly oppose any attempt to shrink the monument. More tourists are coming, and now they arent just passing through on the way to Monument Valley. Theyre spending a night or two, enjoying oat-milk lattes and the like before heading off to Bears Ears. [Read: What kinds of monuments does Trump value?] But Bluff is a blue pinprick in bright-red southern Utah, where this one towns affection for the monument is not so widely shared. Bayley Hedglin, the mayor of Monticello, a larger town some 50 miles north, described Bluff to me as a second-home community, a place for people from outside the areacode for Californiansor retirees. For her and her constituents, the monument and other public lands that surround Monticello are like a boa constrictor, suffocating their town by forcing it into a tourism economy of low-paying, seasonal jobs. The extra hikers who have descended on the area often need rescuing. She said they strain local emergency-services budgets. I asked Hedglin which industries she would prefer. Extraction, she said. Her father and grandfather were both uranium miners. San Juan County was built on mining, and at one time, we were very wealthy, she said. She understood that the monument was created at the behest of a marginalized community, but pointed out that the residents of Monticello, where the median household income is less than $64,000, are marginalized in their own right. I asked what percentage of them support the national monument. You could probably find 10, she said. 10 percent? I asked. No, 10 people, she replied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election-to-election uncertainty is itself a burden, Hedglin said. It makes it hard to plan for the future. Even if Trump shrinks the monument again, we cant make the development plans that we need in Monticello, because we know that there will be another election coming. Britt Hornsby, a staunchly pro-monument city-council member in Bluff, seemed just as disheartened by what he called the federal governments ping-pong approach to Bears Ears. Weve had some folks in town looking to start a guiding business, he said, but they have been unable to get special recreation permits with all the back-and-forth. [Read: Return the national parks to the tribes] The only conventional uranium-processing mill still active in the United States sits just outside the borders of another nearby town, Blanding. Phil Lyman, who, until recently, represented Blanding and much of the surrounding area in Utahs House of Representatives, has lived there all of his life. Lyman personifies resistance to the monument. He told me that archaeological sites were never looted en masse, as Hadenfeldt had said. This account of the landscape was simply a lie. (In 2009, federal agents raided homes in Blanding and elsewhere, recovering some 40,000 potentially stolen artifacts.) While Lyman was serving as the local county commissioner in 2014, two years before Bears Ears was created, he led an illegal ATV ride into a canyon that the Bureau of Land Management had closed in order to protect Ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings. Some associates of the anti-government militant Ammon Bundy rode along with him. A few were armed. To avoid violence, assembled federal agents did not make immediate arrests, but Lyman was later convicted, and served 10 days in jail. The stunt earned him a pardon from Trump and a more prominent political profile in Utah.When Biden re-expanded the monument in 2021, Lyman was furious. While he offered general support for the state of Utahs legal efforts to reverse Bidens order, he also said that his paramount concern was not these lesser legal arguments but the federal occupation of Utah itself. Like many people in rural Utah, Lyman sees the monument as yet another government land grab, in a state where more than 60 percent of the land is public. The feds had colluded with environmentalists to designate the monument to shut down industries, in a manner befitting of Communists, he told me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davina Smith, who sits on the board of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition as representative for the Navajo Nation, grew up just a mile outside of Bears Ears. She now lives in Blanding, not far from Lyman. Her father, like Mayor Hedglins, was a uranium miner. But Native Americans havent always been treated like they belong here, she told me. People in Utah say that they want local control, but when we tried to deal with the state, we were not viewed as locals. Indeed, for more than 30 years, San Juan Countys government was specifically designed to keep input from the Navajo to a minimum. Only in 2017 did a federal court strike down a racial-gerrymandering scheme that had kept Navajo voting power confined to one district. Smith, too, has been tormented by what she called the never-ending cycle of uncertainty over the monument. The tribes have just spent three years negotiating a new land-management plan with the Biden administration, and it may be all for naught. Each new administration comes in with different plans and shifting priorities, and nothing ever feels like its moving toward a permanent solution, Smith said. The judicial branch of the federal government will have some decisions of its own to make about the monument, and may inject still more reversals. In 2017, the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition and other groups sued the government over Trumps original downsizing order, arguing that the presidents power to create national monuments under the Antiquities Act is a ratcheta power to create, not shrink or destroy. No federal judge had ruled on that legal question by the time of Bidens re-expansion, and the lawsuit was stayed. If Trump now shrinks the monument again, the lawsuit will likely be reactivated, and new ones likely filed. A subsequent ruling in Trumps favor would have far-reaching implications if it were upheld by the Supreme Court. It would defang the Antiquities Act, a statute that was written to protect Native American heritage, empowering any president to shrink any of Americas national monuments on a whim. (The Biden administration launched an historic run of monument creation. Project 2025, a policy blueprint co-written by Trumps former head of BLM, calls for a shrinking spree.) The borders of each one could begin to pulsate with every subsequent presidential handover. An act of Congress might be the only way to permanently resolve the Bears Ears issue. Even with Republican lawmakers in control, such an outcome may be preferable to the endless flip-flops of executive power, Hillary Hoffmann, a co-director of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, told me. The tribes have built bipartisan relationships with members of Congress. They might not get as much land for the monument as they did under Obama or Biden, she said, but perhaps a grand bargain could be struck. A smaller allotment of protected land could be exchanged for the stability that would allow local communitiesincluding monument supporters and opponents aliketo plan for their future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, people in southeastern Utah are waiting to see what Trump actually does. When I asked Smith how the tribes are preparing for the new administration, she was coy. She didnt want to telegraph the coalitions next moves. We are definitely planning, she told me. This isnt our first time. Everyone in the fight over Bears Ears has to find some way to cope with the uncertainty; for Smith, its taking the long view. She invoked the deeper history of the Colorado Plateau. She called back to the Long Walk of the Navajo, a series of 53 forced marches that the U.S. Army used to remove thousands of tribe members from their land in New Mexico and Arizona in the 1860s. When the cavalry came to round up my people, some of them sought refuge in Bears Ears, she said. To this day, I can go there and remember what my ancestors did. I can remember that we come from a great line of resilience. Article originally published at The Atlantic DES MOINES, Iowa Polk Countys top administrator has been placed on administrative leave. John Norris Polk County Community Relations Specialist Jon Cahill confirmed County Administrator John Norris is on administrative leave but declined further comment because it is a personnel matter. Dome After Dark returns to the Des Moines Botanical Garden According to The Des Moines Register, Norris was escorted out of the Polk County Administration Building on Friday. As an administrator, Norris works with county leaders to develop the annual budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March of 2023, Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy filed a lawsuit against Norris and four of his fellow supervisors. In January of last year, McCoy agreed to dismiss the lawsuit. Just last week McCoy was elected chair of the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. New poll results say that Marylanders believe prescription drug prices can be reduced without cutting into funding for drug research and development. Photo by Angela Breck. A new poll says an overwhelming majority of Marylanders believe drug manufacturers could reduce costs for prescription drugs without cutting into funds going to research and development of new drugs, a key argument of the pharmaceutical industry. The poll by Gonzales Research & Media Services Inc. found that 83% of Marylanders surveyed agreed with the statement that drug companies can lower the costs of prescription drugs by spending less on advertising and other expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among Maryland voters, a sweeping 83% align more closely with the belief that drug companies can afford to make their drugs less expensive, given their inflated profits and exorbitant spending on advertising; while only 12% think that capping the prices drug companies can charge for prescriptions would constrain their ability to finance research for new medications, with 5% providing no opinion, according to the poll results released Monday. Vincent DeMarco, president of the Maryland Health Care for All coalition, which commissioned the polling question, said it shows that the public understands that the drug companies scare tactics are just that scare tactics. They (Marylanders) really feel the need to make these high-cost drugs more affordable, and they believe that it can be done without undermining research, DeMarco said. But the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) maintains that the high costs of certain drugs help fund development and research of future treatments, and efforts to restrict prices could jeopardize those efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The poll speaks to an ongoing debate on the potential consequences of decisions made by Marylands Prescription Drug Affordability Board, which is currently tasked with bringing down drug costs for state and local government health care plans. Members of the pharmaceutical industry, such as PhRMA, are largely against such boards, saying that government price-setting policies reduce access to new drugs by cutting into research and development funds, among other concerns. Patients in Maryland should be very concerned with failed price-setting schemes like the current PDAB, which has cost millions of dollars and failed to keep the promise made to patients of keeping drug costs low, said Stami Turk, a PhRMA spokesperson, in a statement Monday. Continuing to support a board that saves the state money, rather than patients, is not a policy that deserves continued support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The poll of 811 registered Maryland voters was taken from Dec. 27 to Jan. 4 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. Those surveyed were asked which of two statements came closer to their beliefs: Drug corporations make inflated profits and spend excessively on advertising. They can easily afford to make their drugs more affordable or Limiting what drug corporations can be paid for expensive prescriptions would limit their ability to fund research for new drugs. Of the 83% who agreed more with the first statement, the greatest support came from Democratic voters. About 90% of Democrats agreed that pharmaceutical companies could make drugs more affordable, while 7% believed that reducing drug costs would limit research funding for new drugs. But support for the first statement was also overwhelmingly strong among Republicans and independents. The poll said 76% of Republican voters and 73% of independent voters agreed drug manufacturers could bring costs down without cutting into research; 17% of both Republicans and independents feared that reducing drug costs could affect research and development. Last year, a study from Public Citizen reported that the top 10 manufacturers of drugs prescribed in Maryland collectively spent $10 billion in 2022 on advertising, and $9 billion more on share repurchases, dividends to shareholders and executive compensation than they spent on research and development in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health care advocates like DeMarco want the General Assembly to expand the states Prescription Drug Affordability Boards mandate to reduce drug costs for all Marylanders, not just those on government health care plans. The Gonzales poll results were released just days before the start of the 2025 legislative session, when the General Assembly will consider legislation that would do just that. In response to our efforts to make high-cost drugs more affordable, the main argument the drug corporations use is that they need these high prices for research. Which we dont think is true because they spend so much money on advertising and profits, DeMarco said. What this poll shows is that Marylanders know that they may not have all the details at their fingertips but they see these ads, they see every night on the TV the billions of dollars that the drug corporations spend on these ads, DeMarco said. And Im sure theyre thinking why are you spending that money on these ads and charging me so much for these same drugs? Maryland Budget Secretary Helene Grady and Gov. Wes Moore (D) will have to navigate tricky political waters as they work to resolve five years of projected budget deficits including almost $3 billion in fiscal 2026. File photo by Bryan P. Sears. A majority of Marylanders oppose tax increases to erase a nearly $3 billion budget deficit projected for the coming fiscal year, a political challenge and risk for Gov. Wes Moore (D). The results of a poll released Tuesday by Annapolis-based Gonzales Research & Media are unsurprising, but they may not be welcome news for Moore, who has yet to fulfill some of his biggest promises as he eyes re-election and perhaps a run for president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What were talking about is the deficit, and the reality is that there is very little appetite for any kind of tax increase, pollster Patrick Gonzales said. Voters constantly express a willingness to pay taxes for needed services like transportation and public safety, but not for a problem they believe their elected representatives created, he said. Moore and Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Baltimore) have said that there will be a high bar for any tax increases in 2025. While neither has indicated that the standard has been met, both have indicated some willingness to have the discussion. Personal income, property and sales taxes represent three of the largest revenue sources for the state. No proposal has been made public and the Gonzales poll focused only on support or opposition for each tax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than three of four people who responded said they oppose an increase in the income tax rate. That majority opposition cuts across political affiliations, racial and age demographics. Similarly, 73% said they oppose an increase in the sales tax. When it comes to property tax increases, 77% said they were opposed. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Property tax increases have been quietly floated in recent weeks as one way to ease a $1.3 billion, six-year deficit in the Transportation Trust Fund. We tried to be as straightforward as possible and give some context, Gonzales said. Gonzales surveyed 811 registered voters who said they are likely to vote in the next election. The poll asked voters about Moore and other issues including the taxes to resolve the budget deficit and a potential match-up for governor between Moore and Republican former Gov. Larry Hogan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The poll, conducted between Dec. 27- Jan. 4, has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5%. Within those who oppose those new taxes, a significant group that told the pollster that Moore has done a good job through two years in office. In that poll, 61% of people surveyed said they approved of the job done by Moore. Another 28% said they disapproved and 11% gave no opinion. Those results are slightly lower but statistically flat to result from a September Gonzales poll, when 64% of those polled said they approved of Moores performance. If I were governor of Maryland, I would take these approval numbers, Gonzales said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beneath the placid surface, however, there are some signs of wavering support. Within that approval number are about 29% who said they strongly approved of Moores efforts and another 32% that said they somewhat approved of the governors job performance. In the September poll, nearly 39% said they strongly approved and 25% said they somewhat approved. Gonzales said the results of his most recent poll reflect a softening of intensity of approval. Deficits, taxes, and political capital The December Gonzales Poll does not delve into possible reasons for the change. The wobble could be accentuated by how Moores efforts to address the deficit are received by the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to an income tax increase, 67% of those who strongly approve of Moores job performance oppose an income tax increase. Sixty-two percent of those who strongly approved of Moores performance opposed a sales tax increase. And 71% of those who strongly approve of Moores performance oppose a property tax increase. Thats a problem for him (Moore), said Gonzales. Thats a problem for any human being. How will he deal with it? I dont have any idea but over the next 90 days hes going to have to make some hard choices. Included in that, Gonzales said, are swaths of Democrats in the House and Senate who do favor increases, and special interest groups including the Maryland State Education Association and American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, who will be working to protect massive increases in education spending and promises to hire more state workers. Moore tops Hogan in hypothetical contest Speculation has increased over the political future of both the current governor and that of Hogan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore is considered to be a hopeful for a presidential bid in 2028.But before that, he faces re-election for governor in 2026. There is speculation that Hogan, a Republican who recently lost a bid for U.S. Senate to Angela Alsobrooks, could tee up another bid for governor. Hogan, the first two-term Republican governor since Theodore McKeldin, was immensely popular in the polls during his eight years in office. Voter discontent over the economy or taxes which Hogan vehemently and vocally opposed could lay the groundwork for a repeat of the 2014 election that saw him into his first term. The poll released Tuesday shows Hogan who has not publicly signaled an intent to run again trailing Moore by 14 points, 52% to 38%. Another 10% said they were undecided. When I look at the results of this poll, my first impression is how strikingly similar it is to the results of the election we just had and the contest between Hogan and now-Sen. Alsobrooks, Gonzales said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His (Hogans) problem in this poll is the same thing I think he suffered from on Election Day, Gonzales said. You have to have 30% of Democrats cross over and vote for you if a Republican wants to win in Maryland. In this poll, we have him at 18%. Thats just not going to do it. A lot can change after the next 90 days of the coming legislative session and in the year before the 2026 campaign begins in earnest, Gonzales said. This is a hypothetical and if (Moore) and the legislature raise taxes in a way that turns off voters and raising taxes always turns off voters it makes a scenario where all of a sudden Larry Hogan, at nearly age 70, can reinvent himself as a back-to-the-future candidate where he says, We didnt have these kinds of problems, we didnt raise taxes like this,' Gonzales said. We dont know what the landscape will look like in 90 days or even a year. New year, new Asado temporarily, that is. The Sixth Avenue steakhouse turns 20 in 2025, and to celebrate, the restaurant will do things a bit differently in January. Instead of the Argentinian bent Tacomans have come to know and love since the mid-aughts, the cucina will travel to Piedmont, the Alpine region of northwestern Italy. Oltre by Asado launched Jan. 2 and will run through Sunday, Feb. 2. The standard Asado menu will not be available during that time, but service and kitchen staff remain the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hope, explained executive chef Roger Weatherhead, is providing some really quality food to create something exciting for our guests with the same quality and level of service that theyd expect from Asado. With the help of his sous chef Jacob Lindaman, formerly of The Table, he has developed a menu featuring such emblematic dishes as agnolotti, a dainty, twisted raviolo-esque pocket filled here with butternut squash, ricotta and parsnip puree; tajarin (tah-ya-reen), a skinnier version of the egg-based tagliatelle, tossed generously with butter, sage and Grana Padano; and risotto with goat cheese, mushrooms and hazelnuts, which, as a prolific Piedmontese nut, show up in various forms at Oltre. There are also salads, semolina-fried calamari, grilled rapini and garlicky beans. In a nod to Asados roots, indulge still in two steaks: a Mishima Reserve striploin with salmoriglio, an herbaceous green sauce, and a tenderloin with roasted shallots. Keeping with Asados roots and taking advantage of its wood-fired oven, Oltre features two steaks, including an 8-ounce tenderloin with roasted shallots and demi-glace. Morgan Medeiros/Asado Tacoma The bar has also created a special cocktail and wine list for the occasion. Glass pours and select bottles include all-Italian picks, including a 2020 Barbera and 2018 Barolo Ravera, both from Piedmont. ASADO TURNS 20 Why shake things up this way, and only for a limited time? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Xitco of parent company X Group Restaurants said its all about highlighting the workers who make a restaurant, well, a restaurant. We have been there for 20 years, which is a huge feat on its own, and I thought it would be fun to give the kitchen 100% control for a month and allow them to spread their wings, he said in a message just ahead of the pop-ups debut. We are a concept-driven restaurant, and Ive always thought that it was important to keep the chefs inspired, he added in a press release. Stepping outside of our day-to-day norm allows everyone guests included to have fun and experience something new. It also allows us to be vulnerable and appreciate the things that we already do even more. He presented the idea to the management team in November. The chef was initially apprehensive, Weatherhead admitted last Thursday as he was prepping for a final staff training and tasting. After joining Asado about two years ago, he worked to fine-tune their core offerings and maintain a consistent budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To turn that upside on its head is daunting, but also, you know, it just seemed like too fun of an opportunity to pass up, said Weatherhead. He and Lindaman tossed around some ideas, considering logistical challenges and equipment limitations. They already made pappardelle in-house, and both chefs have a love for fresh-made pasta, noted Weatherhead, whose resume includes time at Seattles beloved (and just-closed) Art of the Table. They eventually landed in Piedmont. Shareables and sides include greens like grilled rapini with pangrattato, parm and hazelnuts. Morgan Medeiros/Asado Tacoma Bordering France and Switzerland, the regions cuisine shares a lot of ingredients and a lot of techniques, and even some dishes under different names, continued the head chef. Beyond the more typical red-sauce of Americas many Italian eateries, Its also a region thats not usually highlighted. Were really excited about the whole menu and process as a whole, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the handmade pastas, he called out a whole branzino wood-fired in Asados signature oven and steaks. Whether thats regionally appropriate for what were doing, we wanted to have some nod to Asado as well. With just under two dozen dishes, including desserts, the menu is fairly streamlined, added Weatherhead, with the goal of letting the ingredients shine and the cooks focus on technique and execution. Like Asado, Oltre will offer happy hour, too no reservations, only in the bar, 4-6 p.m. daily. Save on the provolone fonduta burger, the Caesar and a few snacks like $3 oysters, and snag $9 cocktails and $8 house wine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fans of the usual Asado Cucina Argentina need not worry: It will return in full force on Monday, Feb. 3. OLTRE BY ASADO 2810 6th Ave., Tacoma, 253-272-7770, asadotacoma.com Sunday-Thursday 4-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday 4-10 p.m.; happy hour 4-6 p.m. at the bar Details: month-long kitchen takeover in honor of 20th anniversary, featuring a limited-time menu of Piedmontese dishes (starters $7-$22, pastas and mains $24-$60), wines and cocktails Reservations: recommended by phone or via Resy (happy hour lounge seats walk-in only) Jan. 6BELTRAMI COUNTY A Port Hope Township home has suffered significant damage after a fire broke out early Monday morning north of Bemidji. According to a release from Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood, at 5:24 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire near South Bay Court, about 10 miles north of Bemidji in Port Hope Township. Upon arrival, firefighters found a single-story residential structure with heavy fire from the attached garage extending into the attic space, the release said. Initial crews pulled a 2 1/2-inch attack line and began extinguishing efforts from the exterior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As additional crews arrived, two 1 3/4-inch attack lines were stretched to the interior, extinguishing the fire. A total of 31 firefighters and 11 pieces of equipment were on the scene for approximately four hours. The home and its contents suffered significant damage. One minor firefighter injury has been reported, the release said. The fire is currently under investigation but appears to have been accidental. The Bemidji Ambulance Service, Beltrami County Sherriff's Office, Blackduck Fire Department, Beltrami Electric, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office assisted the Bemidji Fire Department at the scene. Jan. 6Inside the bright yellow walls of Joe Lewis' Portland law firm, he wasn't shy about sharing his love for his co-workers. He was charismatic, charming and only serious when inside the courtroom, said his wife, Maryellen Sullivan. Lewis died after being hit by a car Friday afternoon in the Old Port. Sullivan said he was walking back to his office on Moulton Street when the driver of an SUV that had just turned onto India Street hit him, giving him a severe head injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He was well aware of how careless cars could be, so he was really careful," Sullivan said. "He, in fact, would lecture me if I wasn't careful enough." Portland police confirmed Monday that Lewis, 61, died after he was taken to the hospital. A spokesperson for the department said the driver, whom officials identified as a 69-year-old woman, is not facing any charges at this time. Lewis was the second pedestrian killed in Portland in the past few months. A Connecticut woman died in November after she was hit by a car at the intersection of Franklin and Congress streets. The driver in that case, a 36-year-old Portland man, was also not charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul Drinan, active transportation director for the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, which advocates for pedestrian and bicyclist safety, said it is uncommon for charges to be filed in crashes like these, even at intersections where there seem to be no visual obstructions. But he said Maine crash data is hard to analyze and may not present the full story of what may have happened. A state crash report for Lewis' death was not available Monday. A LOVING FATHER Lewis was a family attorney at Port City Legal, where he worked with his wife. 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 A family man, Lewis was close with daughter Mackenzie Lewis, 27, and son Anthony Lewis, 29. And Sullivan said he thought of her children, 29-year-old Ellison Sullivan Etnier and 27-year-old Emma Sullivan Etnier, as his "bonus" children rather than stepchildren. Anthony Lewis said in an email Monday that his father was gentle and thoughtful. "He was blessed with a shimmering intellect and a relentless spirit, and never hesitated to tell his wife he loved her, or my sister and me that he was proud of us," Anthony Lewis said. "I feel lucky to have called him Dad, and would urge anyone reading this now to give those closest to you a big, strong, verging-on-too-tight hug. You just never know when your last chance will come." Mackenzie Lewis said she will always remember the vacation she took to Montana last year with her dad, whom she described as a "moral lamppost," loving mentor and the best father one could ask for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emma Sullivan Etnier said when she was first getting to know Lewis, he brought her to the courthouse to watch one of his hearings. He told the court marshals that he'd brought his "bonus daughter" along, and ever since then, she'd kept him in her phone as "bonus dad." Sullivan said she met Lewis at a law school alumni event at Sonny's Restaurant. He noticed her and gave her his phone, asking her to put her number in. He waited exactly 36 hours to call her, she said. They had their first date at his favorite restaurant, Paciarino, where they soon celebrated some of his birthdays and held their wedding reception. "He was just good at words and full of love. It wasn't an act, it wasn't a ploy, it was just who he was," Sullivan said. "He just became better and better at it the longer I knew him. Finally finding someone he loved as much as he loved me just allowed him to blossom in a way that, maybe he hadn't before." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said he daydreamed about meeting his future grandchildren and sharing his love with them. "What made him so unique, though, was his willingness to fight tirelessly through adversity for the people and values he held dear," Anthony Lewis said. "His most consistent advice for my sister and me was to be generous, and to be gentle." PRACTICING LAW Sullivan said Lewis was a creative, smart man with an inquisitive mind. Before he attended law school at the University of Maine, he ran his own business, working with geographic information systems. As an attorney, she said, he changed dozens of his clients' lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He wasn't a mean lawyer; he didn't pull dirty tricks on people," Sullivan said. "He just used the law and his brain and his ability to craft beautiful sentences to advocate for people who really needed his help." Lewis was generous with his employees, too, and they had fun together, she recalled. He once recruited the firm to take a costumed photo for an advertisement in a Mad Horse Theatre Company playbill. They stood on the steps of the courthouse, wearing white bedsheets as makeshift togas and reading law books. Sullivan said Lewis loved the camaraderie of the law community in Portland, where all of the courthouse marshals and clerks knew him. Cumberland County District Attorney Jacqueline Sartoris said Lewis was her classmate at the University of Maine School of Law. They graduated together as nontraditional students who were older than their other classmates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lewis was chosen to speak at the 2010 graduation, and he kept in touch with many of his old classmates, Sullivan said. Sartoris 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, Sartoris 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 talking about how proud he was of his children. 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." A memorial fund in Lewis' honor is in the works with the University of Maine School of Law. Please visit portcitylegal.com or email info@portcitylegal.com for more information. Copy the Story Link Chinas cyberspace regulators shut down over 400 websites and platforms in 2024, punishing 2.39 million online accounts and merchants to combat activities associated with the online troll farms. Troll farms are groups hired to post online comments, make purchases and manipulate public opinion to boost popularity or attack competitors. These groups may create fake accounts, spread misinformation, or engage in astroturfing to disguise paid activity as genuine user engagement. According to a news release from the Cyberspace Administration of China on Friday, authorities have further intensified efforts to crack down on these activities since the start of the new year. The release stated that some online troll farms exploit social events to gain attention, while others create false reputations for merchants or manipulate ratings and reviews for films and celebrities, generating fake traffic data. Such activities severely harm the online ecosystem, the statement said. Last year, over 400 websites and platforms were shut down, and 4.82 million pieces of illegal and harmful information were removed, the cyberspace administration said. Authorities imposed punishments on 2.39 million online accounts and merchants, as well as 52,000 online groups. The administration has disclosed several typical cases. Some online trolls set up self-service ordering platforms offering services such as boosting reviews, likes and engagement on short-video, livestreaming and social media platforms, the release noted. Cyber administration authorities have shut down platforms dedicated to online troll farms and worked with app stores to intercept or remove certain applications. Authorities have also investigated the misuse of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and applications designed to generate fake traffic. Some online troll farms frequently used bot accounts to post in bulk in comment sections, taking advantage of opportunities to boost rankings and create trending topics, the cyberspace administration said. Certain software tools have developed AI-writing functions and account farms for one-click posting, facilitating account manipulation and topic fabrication. In response, authorities urged online platforms to handle illegal accounts in accordance with laws and agreements. They have collaborated with relevant departments to crack down on AI-tool-based online troll farm organizations and guided platforms to enhance technical measures to intercept and deal with account-farming software and bot accounts. The release said that cyber administration authorities will continue working with relevant departments to maintain high pressure and severely punish online troll farms activities, resolutely preventing their resurgence. The cyberspace administration has also urged the public to actively participate in oversight and report online misconduct by providing timely information about potential violations. It reminded netizens to exercise caution when encountering online part-time job offers to avoid being deceived into participating in online troll farm activities, which could result in personal and financial losses. CHINADAILY House Speaker Mike Johnson sparked an unusual religion controversy last week when he recited a prayer in front of Congress after being reelected as speaker of the House. The problem, at least according to some scholars, wasnt that he prayed in the U.S. Capitol. It was that he claimed to be quoting former President Thomas Jefferson. The prayer is a reminder of what our third President and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence thought was so important that it should be a daily recitation, Johnson said before he read his prayer for the nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed that Jefferson prayed the words he was about to share every day of his presidency and every day after he left the White House until his death. National Prayer of Peace The prayer that Johnson read is a prayer of gratitude and a request for help. It asks God to guide leaders toward peace and to endow them with the spirit of wisdom. Save us from violence, discord and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way, the prayer reads, in part. The prayer is familiar to Jefferson scholars, but many question whether it was actually written or recited by the former president. The Jefferson Foundation calls out the prayer on its website, noting that, although its often associated with Jefferson, its unlikely he was the true source of the words. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, the Foundations website says. The website notes that the prayer seems to have first emerged in historical documents in the early 20th century, long after Jefferson died. Johnsons Jefferson quote As the Jefferson Foundations website makes clear, Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, is far from the first person to associate that prayer for the nation with Jefferson. But he still faced pushback on social media and in news reports for repeating the challenged backstory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear Speaker Johnson, Please dont make stuff up. The prayer that you read in the House Chamber today was not written by Thomas Jefferson and your claim that he recited it every day is false, wrote Rep. Jared Huffman, D-California, on X. The House speaker did not respond to a request for comment from The Washington Post about lingering confusion over the source of the prayer. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) President Joe Biden has become known as the consoler-in-chief, and Monday potentially marked his last chance to act on that while in office. The president and first lady traveled to New Orleans to attend a prayer service and meet with the families of victims from the deadly New Years terrorist attack. Ive been there. Theres nothing you can really say to somebody whos had such a tragic loss, President Biden said ahead of the trip. My message is going to be personal to them if I get to get them alone. They just have to hang on to each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI said a U.S. citizen and Army veteran, who was inspired by ISIS, drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. Police then killed the driver during a shootout. We established beyond any reasonable doubt that New Orleans was the act of a single man, President Biden said. The president pledged to help the victims families, along with local and state officials, with whatever they need, and Louisianas congressional delegation is holding him to that. What happened in New Orleans could have happened anywhere, said U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-La.). Carter joined his Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden, urging him to expedite their states emergency declaration request. It will surge resources to the emergency services, infrastructure and local businesses impacted by the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New Orleans mayor is also asking for more federal help for the upcoming Super Bowl and Mardi Gras events in her city. We must stand together, push back against terrorism, Carter said. Carter said he will also use his position on the House Homeland Security Committee to work to stop future threats, including from inside the U.S. military. My fear is that we will continue to see more of these lone actors who are out there being radicalized and hoodwinked by the enemy, Carter said. Other lawmakers have called for congressional hearings into the federal governments 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 Queen City News. WASHINGTON, (WWLP) The body of former President Jimmy Carter will be moved from the Carter Center in Georgia to the U.S. Capitol ahead of the late presidents funeral on Thursday. Can Washington handle two weeks of high-security pomp along with a heavy burst of snow? Public visitation ended at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday. Then, at 11:00 a.m., the departure ceremony will begin and a motorcade will escort Carters body to the Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia. His family will join on a flight headed for D.C., where members of Congress and the public can pay their respects as he lies in state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The national funeral service happens Thursday in D.C., and then the former presidents body will be flown back home to Georgia for a private service and burial. USA Today states that President Joe Biden declared January 9 as a national day of mourning after his death on December 29, which will close all executive departments and agencies of the federal government on the same day. All U.S. flags were also ordered to fly at half-staff for 30 days. 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. NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited a memorial for the victims of the Bourbon Street attack on Monday afternoon. Jill Biden placed flowers in the growing memorial for the 14 victims and survivors. Louisiana remembers Kareem Badawi Both took a moment of silence before getting back into the presidential limousine that will take them to St. Louis Cathedral for an interfaith prayer service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The President arrived at MSY airport around 3:30 p.m., where he met with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and other local and state leaders. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. GRANITEVILLE, S.C. (WJBF) Its been 20 years since the Graniteville train crash. It was 2:39 exactly on the clockbig screeching, bam, boom, vibration. Didnt know what it was, Robert Wise recalled. Robert was in his home just yards away on January 6, 2005, when a Norfolk Southern train derailed, hitting a parked train near the Avondale Mills Plant. I went outside, within 30 seconds or a minute, my neighbors had a scanner, they were hearing the call to evacuate, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freight cars and gas tankers spilled, releasing chlorine gas. More than 5,000 people were evacuated, and at least nine people died. Two weeks later and there were police from everywhere providing security for us, Robert shared. There were still first responders running around doing what they could do. We came back and weve rebuilt and we pride ourselves on being resilient. Years later, the area is bouncing back. Rolls-Royce, Bridgestone, and Meta are expanding here. Better World Studios is turning Hickman Hall into a creative hub. Theyre having events, looks like about three times a year now, Robert added. And theyre selling off some of this art. Theyre letting people know what they are and who they are. The Graniteville Mill and Leavelle McCampbell School could be converted into housing. At Sage Creek, Robert Wise noticed a growing diversity of residents. I asked people, Where do yall work? and they said, Everywherefrom the Army to cybersecurity to medical fields. He added, Weve got more people coming here than we ever thought.' People who live in Graniteville are hoping incorporation will be part of their future. Meanwhile, a cross near the crash site and a memorial for those killed serve as reminders of the past and hopes for the future. Just my little way of saying, Hey, we havent forgot you, and we think about you not just once a year, but we think about yall very often, what happened to us. 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 WJBF. Your car is spying on you. That is one takeaway from the fast, detailed data that Tesla collected on the driver of one of its Cybertrucks that exploded in Las Vegas earlier this week. Privacy data experts say the deep dive by Elon Musks company was impressive, but also shines a spotlight on a difficult question as vehicles become less like cars and more like computers on wheels. Is your car company violating your privacy rights? You might want law enforcement to have the data to crack down on criminals, but can anyone have access to it? said Jodi Daniels, CEO of privacy consulting firm Red Clover Advisors. Where is the line? Many of the latest cars not only know where youve been and where you are going, but also often have access to your contacts, your call logs, your texts and other sensitive information thanks to cell phone syncing. The data collected by Musks electric car company after the Cybertruck packed with fireworks burst into flames in front of the Trump International Hotel Wednesday proved valuable to police in helping track the drivers movements. Within hours of the New Years Day explosion that burned the driver beyond recognition and injured seven, Tesla was able to track Matthew Livelsbergers movements in detail from Denver to Las Vegas, and also confirm that the problem was explosives in the truck, not the truck itself. Tesla used data collected from charging stations and from onboard software and to great acclaim. I have to thank Elon Musk, specifically, said Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill to reporters. He gave us quite a bit of additional information. Some privacy experts were less enthusiastic. It reveals the kind of sweeping surveillance going on, said David Choffnes, executive director of the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at Northeastern University in Boston. When something bad happens, its helpful, but its a double edged sword. Companies that collect this data can abuse it. General Motors, for instance, was sued in August by the Texas attorney general for allegedly selling data from 1.8 million drivers to insurance companies without their consent. Cars equipped with cameras to enable self-driving features have added a new security risk. Tesla itself came under fire after Reuters reported how employees from 2019 through 2022 shared drivers sensitive videos and recordings with each other, including videos of road rage incidents and, in one case, nudity. Tesla did not respond to emailed questions about its privacy policy. On its website, Tesla says it follows strict rules for keeping names and information private. No one but you would have knowledge of your activities, location, or a history of where youve been, according to a statement. Your information is kept private and secure. Auto analyst Sam Abuelsamid at Telemetry Insight, said he doesnt think Tesla is especially worse than other auto companies in handling customer data, but he is still concerned. This is one of the biggest ethical issues we have around modern vehicles. Theyre connected, he said. Consumers need to have control over their data. Tensions were high when the Cybertruck parked at the front doors of Trumps hotel began smoking, then burst into flames. Just hours earlier a driver in another vehicle using the same peer-to-peer car rental service, Turo, had killed 15 people after slamming into a crowd in New Orleans in what law enforcement is calling a terrorist attack. Shortly before 1 p.m., the Las Vegas police announced they were investigating a second incident. The fire is out, the police announced on the social media platform X, one of Musks other companies. Please avoid the area. Tesla shortly thereafter swung into action. The whole Tesla senior team is investigating this matter right now, Musk wrote on X. Will post more information as soon as we learn anything. Over the next few hours, Tesla was able to piece together Livelsbergers journey over five days and four states by tracking, among other things, his recharging stops in various locations, including Monument, Colorado, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Flagstaff, Arizona. There are no federal laws regulating car data similar to those that restrict information collection and sharing by banks and health care providers. And state laws are a grab-bag of various rules, mostly focused on data privacy in general. Daniels, the privacy consultant, thinks that new national laws are needed because rules have not kept up with technology. I think law enforcement should have access to data that can help them solve things quickly, she said. But we have a right to privacy. BERNARD CONDON, NEW YORK, MDT/AP A northern Indiana lawmaker has filed a bill that would effectively dissolve the Indianapolis Public Schools district and turn its remaining 50 district-run schools into charter schools. House Bill 1136 proposes that any school district in which more than 50% of students who live within its boundaries are enrolled in a school not operated by the district must be dissolved. All remaining schools would be transitioned to charter schools. The IPS district already has the most concentrated amount of charter schools compared to anywhere else in the state and has already seen thousands of its students choose charters over an IPS-run school in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill would also remove the current elected school board for each district affected and would instead place an appointed school board in its place. According to the bills fiscal note, four other school districts in Indiana would be affected by this bill and in total 68 schools could turn into charter schools. The bills author, Rep. Jake Teshka, R-North Liberty, told IndyStar that he authored the bill to ensure that students are given the best education possible and to find solutions in districts where the current governance is failing its students. This bill would only apply to school districts where more than half of the students and families living within the school district's boundaries are choosing to attend other schools, meaning their property taxes are funding a school system they dont attend, said Teshka in an emailed statement. This is an important conversation to have, and I look forward to hearing from parents, educators, administrators and other stakeholders on the best path forward to ensure every Hoosier student receives a quality education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other school districts affected by the bill are: Gary Community School Corporation: nine schools Union School Corporation: five schools Tri-Township Consolidated School Corporation: three schools Cannelton City Schools: one school Charter schools are public schools that are created through a contract with one of the states charter authorizing entities and are held accountable by an non-profit board that is appointed rather than elected. Charter schools can accept students from anywhere in the state, and they receive the same base-funding allocated by the state to all public schools but typically do not receive property tax dollars. The majority of bills filed never make it into law, so there's no guarantee this one will either as written. The House education committee Chair Rep. Bob Behning, R-Indianapolis, said in an emailed statement that he hasn't made any decisions yet about which bills will receive a hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislative session starts Wednesday. What would the bill do? The bill would require all school districts that dont meet the 50% threshold as of the 2024 fall count date to transition its schools by July 1, 2028. The new governing board that would replace the elected board would be comprised of seven members, four appointed by the governor, one appointed by the mayor of the city or town where the school district resides, one by the president of the fiscal body for the county and one by the executive director of the Indiana Charter School Board. This new governing board would have to create a uniform accountability framework used for all the charters located in the school district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More Education news: State graduation rate is at an all time high. See what the grad rate is at your school. The bill also says that the lowest performing schools on state standardized tests would be the first to transition to a charter. It also says that the board should recruit high performing organizers to operate the new schools but does not specify what is high-performing. The new charter schools would also get to access the funds for any property tax referendums currently being used by the school district and can use the funds in a manner that is, to the extent possible, consistent with the original purposes and use of the tax referendum levy revenue. Voters just approved a new capital referendum for IPS in 2023, that is meant to send $410 million to the district to fulfill various construction projects across the district, including updates to buildings current innovation charter schools occupy. Where are IPS students going to school? There are nearly 50,000 students who live within the IPS district boundary. Around 61% of those students attend a school outside of an IPS-run school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 11% attend another traditional public school corporation 39% attend a charter school. That includes the district's innovation charter schools, where charter organizers enter into a partnership with IPS which sometimes means the charters get to use IPS buildings and resources such as transportation. Close to 10% attend a private school using the states choice scholarship program Less than 1% of students attend a different traditional public school for reasons other than parental choice. The district has a little over 21,000 students enrolled, including additional students who attend IPS from outside of the district. Example of an innovation charter school: This high school mentors its students long after they graduate, and its seeing results IPS has been slowly losing students throughout the past decade and beyond. The district has tried various initiatives to stop the bleed, one being the innovation network made possible by legislation passed in 2014. The district is currently undergoing a massive reorganization of its K-8 schools called the Rebuilding Stronger Plan to better distribute students and resources across its district-run schools to improve efficiency and program offerings for all students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the district continues to see some drops in enrollment with the district losing around 800 students from last school year. Reaction to the bill so far Four new commissioners join the IPS school board this week, some of whom were elected on a campaign that promised more collaboration with charters. The IPS Board of Commissioners recognizes the importance of addressing pending legislation that will affect IPS and its potential impact on our students, families, and community, the board told IndyStar in an emailed statement. Keep up with school news: Sign up for Study Hall, IndyStar's free weekly education newsletter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of our commitment to thoughtful and unified leadership, the full board, including newly sworn-in members, will formally address this legislation following their Organization Day on January 7. Rep. Gregory Porter, D-Indianapolis, condemned the bill on Monday saying that this bill is like a bolt out of the blue and that it is an attempt to divert more state dollars to charter schools and that this legislation primarily affects communities of color. The supermajority touts school choice, but what about the parents who want their children to attend public school? Porter said. This bill is a naive solution to the difficulties our urban schools experience. Remember the money follows the child, and the majority is telling parents how that money will be spent. Contact IndyStar K-12 education reporter Caroline Beck at 317-618-5807 or CBeck@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter (X): @CarolineB_Indy. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Under new bill all IPS schools would become charter schools SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A new law proposed in the Utah Legislature would prohibit adding fluoride to Utahs water supply. H.B. 81, named Fluoride Amendments, would amend sections of Utahs law code to prevent adding fluoride to any public water system and disallows local governments from enacting or enforcing ordinances that allow fluoridation. State Representative Stephanie Gricius (R-HD50), the sponsor of the bill, told ABC4.com that her bill isnt anti-fluoride, but is about standardizing the delivery method for Utahns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New bill seeks to raise active voter cap in precincts What you should know Nothing about this bill is anti-fluoride, Gricius expressed. Its only about changing the delivery mechanism. Itll be easier for some people to access, and some people will have to actually make an effort to access it, it creates a standardized delivery system that lets the individual choose if thats the medication they want to take or not. Fluoridation, or the addition of fluoride to community water supplies, is the process of adjusting natural fluoride levels to a level that is recommend to improve tooth development and prevent cavities. According to the Centers for Disease Control, fluoridation is a strategy used across the U.S. to lower cavity rates and improve overall dental health. The recommended level by the CDC for fluoride is 0.7 milligrams per liter. Which is about three drops within a 55-gallon barrel of water. The goal is to add enough to the naturally occurring fluoride to equal that level of 0.7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are only two counties in Utah that fluoridate their water: Salt Lake and Davis. Both of these were done by ballot initiative, with Salt Lake County passing it in 2000. Though they are the only counties that have general fluoridation ordinances, cities throughout Utah have put fluoride in their water. In addition to its provision on water supplies, Gricius bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to issue standing prescriptions for fluoride supplements. Which Gricius says gives citizens more access and choice in receiving fluoride. Where there is harm, when it comes to taking a prescription, there should always be [a] choice, Gricius stated. If you look at it from the perspective of preventing tooth decay, in a lot of ways we are increasing fluoride access to the rest of the state. Gricius said she began working on HB 81 after concerns were brought to her about its health effects, which she says have been linked to higher signs of fluorosis and may impact the development of bones in children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicholas Rupp, the communications director for the Salt Lake County Health Department, said that fluoridation was essential to dental health, and is an efficient way to ensure that everyone can access it. While [fluoridation] is relatively new here in Salt Lake County, it has been going on a long time throughout the country, Rupp stated. The benefit of community water fluoridation is that we can control the [amount] very precisely through the water systems and that way fluoride gets to every community member, regardless of their age, their income status, their access to dental care. Thats really the biggest benefit to delivering fluoride through the community water system is that it reaches everyone. Rupp also clarifies that fluoride also naturally occurs in water, saying, What community water fluoridation does is add enough fluoride to get the benefits of that fluoridation to reach that recommended level. Its very similar to adding vitamin D to milk or adding iodine to salt. Out of the 25 years of fluoridation in Salt Lake County, there has been one major incident back in 2019, that due to mechanical failure that came after a snowstorm knocked out power. Causing 40 times the recommended level of fluoride to end up in the Sandy water supply. Causing residents to have nausea and dysentery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Fullmer, a dentist located in Utah County, said that out of the 38 years of practicing dentistry, he has only seen cases of fluorosis through drinking water where fluoride was naturally occurring at higher levels than were safe, saying Ive seen cases of fluorosis, but theyve come from areas where the fluoride was naturally in the water in higher amounts than we would use in fluoridating water. Fullmer joked that not having fluoride in water would be good for business for him. However, he said his goal was to prevent that as much as possible. He says fluoridation helps that goal. I would hope that legislators and their constituents would look at the good science, Fullmer stated. As a dental profession, we would never want to do anything that would harm peoples health there probably are instances where too much fluoride was added to the water or those type of things. I am not aware of that, but that creates that fear, just the chance that it might happen. Nobody wants that to happen. Gricius stressed in a final note that people should be able to choose what they are ingesting, and the role of government is to provide them with that choice, saying, The bottom line is, when you are putting a substance in the water to medicate people, you are taking away their choice of weighting that risk for themselves. The role of government is to provide safe clean water, not to medicate the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement H.B. 81 is set to be debated in the upcoming 2025 General Session of the state legislature beginning on Jan. 21. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) New Mahoning County Prosecutor Lynn Maro Tuesday asked a common pleas court judge to continue the Monday murder trial of a man charged with the death of a missing Smith Township teen. Maros motion asked Judge Maureen Sweeney to continue the case so a special prosecutor could take over. Maro said when she was in private practice, she had once consulted with the family of Robert Lindsay Moore, 54, of Alliance, after he was charged in 2021. Maro, who never represented Moore, said in her motion she wants a special prosecutor in order to avoid the appearance of any conflicts of interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this case, because Ms. Maro did consult with Mr. Moores family about the defense of the case coming on for trial, it is ethically appropriate that she and the entire office withdraw as counsel, Sweeney wrote. She will, pursuant to the law, locate and designate a special prosecuting attorney, who shall enter an appearance. The motion said if a continuance is granted, Maro hopes for substitute counsel for the State of Ohio to enter an appearance as soon as possible. Maro defeated former Prosecutor Gina DeGenova in the November general election and was sworn in Dec. 30. She began her duties Monday. Prosecutors have already tried to retry Moore at least six previous times, and all those times have failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore first went on trial in 2022 for the 2009 murder of Glenna Jean White, 17, who was last seen in June 2009 in Alliance. Jurors failed to reach a verdict in that case. Moore switched attorneys after that and prosecutors opted to retry him, but have never gotten past opening statements. White went missing June 2, 2009. Her body has never been found. The case was reopened after the Portage County Drug Task Force received a tip on the case and a grand jury indicted Moore in December 2021 for Whites death. In April, a jury was seated and opening statements began when the proceedings had to be halted because of an illness in the family of one of the attorneys. In October, attorneys tried again and jury selection was halted after a day. A reason was never given. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the jury was seated in April, attorneys in the case tried five previous times since August 2023. Evidence issues have popped up at the last minute, and during one of the occasions when the jury pool was sworn in, one of the jurors made racist statements to other jurors because they said they did not want to serve on the jury. White was last seen alive on June 2, 2009, at an Alliance home where she had been drinking with several people, including Moore. Prosecutors said White claimed Moore tried to rape her and Moore angrily took her home. When Moore returned, he was covered in mud and blood, according to witnesses. A witness also said that Moore claimed he was stopped at a stop sign in front of a bar when White jumped out of the car and three men from the bar jumped him and beat him up. Witnesses had testified in the first trial that there had been sightings of White after she was declared missing, but no trace of her has ever been found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore also served 15 years on a manslaughter charge for the death of a woman in 1993 at Berlin Lake in Stark County. Moores previous defense attorney objected several times to allowing prosecutors to tell jurors about that case, saying it would prejudice juries against his client, but Judge Sweeney overruled each objection. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) Prosecutors have found additional criminal conduct by Mayor Eric Adams since his historic indictment in September 2024, according to new court filings. The alleged new crimes were revealed Monday in court documents filed by prosecutors with Manhattans U.S. attorneys office. Its a response to a request from Adams legal team for the government to provide more information on his charges. Although the Indictment and discovery provide Adams with more than sufficient information as to his alleged co-conspirators and aiders and abettors, law enforcement has continued to identify additional individuals involved in Adamss conduct, and to uncover additional criminal conduct by Adams, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The filing does not elaborate on the potential new criminal activity. But prosecutors did mention they believe Adams and his allies made attempts to influence potential witnesses, according to court documents. Mayor Adams indictment: Timeline of federal investigations Adams lawyer, Alex Spiro, said the filing is just a grab for attention. This is amateur hour. They are just looking for a headline instead of doing the right thing. I assume we are at the point where New Yorkers are not falling for it, Spiro said in a statement to PIX11 News. Adams was indicted in September on charges including bribery, solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national and wire fraud. The charges stem from a federal investigation into his 2021 mayoral campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors accuse the mayor of accepting illegal campaign donations as early as his time as Brooklyn borough president, and knowingly soliciting and accepting money from Turkish government officials, according to prosecutors. Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter 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. Jan. 7Born into a newspaper family, Skip Mazenauer was a staunch supporter of Grand Island, helping many in the Western New York community and beyond succeed through his publications and many volunteer efforts. "In our family, he was an unwavering optimistic person," said Judy, his wife of 42 years. "He always believed in trying to help people realize their fullest potential." The longtime publisher of the Grand Island-based Niagara Frontier Publications died on Christmas Eve at the age of 80. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skip's parents were the original owners of the Grand Island Pennysaver, which started in 1950 out of the parent's house. He bought the paper from his mother in 1978 who merged it with the Island Dispatch that year. Niagara Frontier Publications grew to include the Lewiston-Porter Sentinel and the Niagara-Wheatfield Tribune. The Sentinel and Tribune merged in April 2020 to become the Niagara County Tribune/Sentinel, with the Grand Island Dispatch merging this past October into the Tribune-Sentinel. Judy said that by 1978, ink was in his blood. "The community newspapers were just so important to him," she said, adding she too has been involved in various roles at the paper since she met Skip. "He felt the community needed a good newspaper." Joshua Maloni joined the company in the fall of 2003, first as an editorial coordinator, and then as a section editor before becoming the current managing editor and general manager. Skip helped him out every step of the way. Maloni said Skip loved being involved in every aspect of the paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For the staff, he was our biggest supporter and defender," Maloni said. "Despite that he was our boss and we thought some questions were insignificant, he never handled it that way. He never thought it was a bother or nuisance." Mazenauer joined the Grand Island Rotary Club in May 1959 and spent the next 65 years with the organization. Across that time, he served as president, vice president, and membership chair. During his time there he was a three-time Paul Harris Fellow and participated in the Every Rotarian Every Year program for eight years. He also served on the boards for Artpark, the Aquarium of Niagara, Old Fort Niagara, the Niagara County Builders Association and the now-Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce among others. Niagara Frontier Publications also played a role in supporting the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and helped start the Grand Island Citizen of the Year and Property Improvement awards. Faye Teluk, the current Grand Island Rotary Club president, has been involved on and off with the organization for the past eight years, only getting to know Skip in the past two-and-a-half years when he was an honorary Rotarian. Even then, she was aware of his large presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He was a very gentle caring person who was very involved with the community," Teluk said. "He was a wonderful man." Throughout his life, Mazenauer battled an autoimmune disease and this past November he and Judy decided to take a step back, with the publisher duties spread out across the staff. The Mazenauer family still owns the company. "To me, those are the heroes of our world," Judy said. "The people who have illnesses and still carry on." As Judy reached out to people they knew asking for prayers, everyone who called her back shared their stories and visited him at Kenmore Mercy Hospital. He had a habit of giving people their first jobs with the newspaper, never harboring any ill feelings when they left for their next opportunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Everyone who called me said, 'He mentored me,' " Judy said, " 'He doesn't know how he brought out the best in me.' " Details on upcoming funeral services were not available on Monday. Russia sent one of its top generals, General Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, to organize Russias defense in Kursk Oblast against a renewed Ukrainian attack, The Telegraph reported on Jan. 5. Ukrainian troops recently launched a renewed offensive against Russian forces in Kursk Oblast in an apparent attempt to halt Moscows effort to retake the region before Donald Trump takes office and possible negotiations begin. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged on Jan. 6 that Ukrainian forces were stopped, and their primary units were destroyed near Berdin, a settlement along a road leading northeast to the city of Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has not commented on the claims and provided limited information on the operation. General Yunus-Bek Yevkurov has been serving as the Kremlins deputy defense minister and was tasked to head Russias border defenses and lead Moscows mercenary projects in Africa. According to the Telegraph, he was sent to Kursk Oblast "hours" after Ukraine began its maneuvers on Jan. 5. The general also survived an assassination attempt with life-threatening injuries while serving as the Kremlin-backed president of Ingushetia, one of Russia's most unstable regions. Ukrainian troops made a surprise incursion into Kursk Oblast in August 2024, capturing about 1,300 square kilometers of territory as a potential bargaining chip in future negotiations with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Kyiv has since lost control of half of the initially seized area, fighting in the region remains intense. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine strikes 3 Russian air defense systems in single day; 3,800 North Korean troops killed, injured in Kursk Oblast Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Rhode Island Ethics Commission Chair Lauren E. Jones corrected a fellow commissioner's use of the old adage Dont fix what aint broke,' on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) Government watchdogs will have to wait and see whether the Rhode Island Ethics Commission pursues proposed changes to state rules regulating who can give public officials gifts. After an hourlong discussion, the commission voted Tuesday morning to delay a vote until all nine of its members have had a chance to review the proposals origins, which were prompted by a less-than-pristine education consulting contract forged in the early days of Gov. Dan McKees administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Common Cause Rhode Island filed a three-part petition with the commission in December seeking stronger controls on lobbyists gifts to public officials, more public disclosure of those gifts, and oversight by the ethics commission on state procurement. The most hotly discussed part of the petition at Tuesdays meeting involved clarifying the commissions authority over gifts given by lobbyists to state officials. The Rhode Island ethics code bans gifts over $25 to state employees from people who could stand to benefit from a relationship with them, but lobbyists are not included in that category by definition. We are okay with the Commissions decision to postpone this decision until February while it receives more information about the ILO Group controversy, said John Marion, executive director of the Rhode Island branch of advocacy group Common Cause, in an email. But, added Marion, We will be disappointed if they ultimately vote to reject our petition for rulemaking. It is very clear that the current gift law is not working as intended and we need to make it stronger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six commissioners voted to postpone discussion on the topic until Feb. 11. Three commissioners were absent from the meeting, and even one who was present acknowledged that she didnt know the details about the ILO probe, the genesis of the petition. Theres lots of news going on, Commissioner Emma L. Peterson said, before motioning to delay the conversation. I dont know what youre talking about. The petition activated the states rulemaking procedure for public agencies, commission Executive Director Jason Gramitt explained as he introduced Marion. The commission can deny the petition, or it can affirm the rulemaking process and incorporate it into subsequent meetings. The Common Cause petition came several weeks after an October press briefing by Attorney General Peter F. Neronha, concluding that McKee and his allies had swayed, in a ham-handed way, the awarding of a school reopening contract to the ILO Group in 2021. But the governor, his former adviser Mike Magee and ILOs Julia Rafal-Baer were basically invulnerable as far as legal consequences went, Neronha conceded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While rooted in the ILO investigation, the petition is a call for more systemic reform, Marion told the commission. Ultimately, we came to the conclusion not to file a complaint with you against any of the people involved, Marion said. But we did come to some conclusions that there are some areas with code ethics we think can be tightened. Marion said the gift rule should categorically bar gifts greater than $25 in value, or $75 in aggregate, from all registered lobbyists. We believe that the current rule is insufficiently protective of the public interest and can also be difficult to comply with, Marion said. Common Cause is not seeking specific changes to language, because we recognize that the code of ethics is a complex set of laws that interact with one another, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission would suss out the best possible wording, Marion suggested. But when it was time for the commission to ponder alternatives, Commissioner Frank J. Cenerini did not appear very interested: The commission regulates public officials, he said, not third parties. Rhode Island Ethics Commissioner Frank Cenerini expressed skepticism about proposed reforms to the commissions regulation of lobbyist gifting practices on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (Alexander Castro/Rhode Island Current) We already effectively regulate third parties in the same way that Common Cause is proposing, Commission Chair Lauren E. Jones replied People who are giving the gift lobbyists, or interested persons are third parties. Who were regulating are the public officials who are receiving the gift. Gifts imbued with mutual benefit would still be precluded under existing statute, thought Cenerini, and the proposed changes would be impractical for elected officials. The proposal is that [the public official] would disclose it every year, said Commissioner Peterson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But then the government official is going to constantly go check the computer to see if someones a registered lobbyist, he said. Mm hmm. Maybe, Peterson said. Given a chance to respond, Marion said he is also a registered lobbyist and in 16 years, over hundreds of meetings with public officials, exchanges as small as coffees or cheap lunches can raise ethical concerns over officials interactions with lobbyists. Cenerini pushed onward, citing the case of the Capital Grille as a defense of the status quo. The commission resolved that case last January, when it dismissed McKees possible wrongdoing for eating a lunch paid for by a lobbyist. Our existing system worked well, Cenerini said. Sometimes when things work, why try to fix a working process? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe the vernacular on that is, Dont fix what aint broke, Jones offered. The events that have come before this commission originated with a person who was not a registered lobbyist, Cenerini continued. Now were being asked to investigate registered lobbyists. Peterson then admitted she wasnt clear what those events were. Avoiding too lengthy a recap of the ILO story, Gramitt said, Its a lot. He agreed that a delayed hearing could give the commissioners a more well-rounded understanding of why Common Cause made its petition in the first place. While the commission decides to possibly catch up on its reading, Marion offered that Common Cause will be shoring up its own arguments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not confident the Commission agrees with our assessment, Marion said of the petition, but well make sure our case is even stronger at their February meeting. Commissioners Matthew Strauss, Jill Harrison and Hugo Ricci Jr. were absent at the meeting. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The foul odor at Av. Norte do Hipodromo in Areia Preta and the elderly housing facility originates from unpleasant smells overflowing from the drainage channels associated with the Lot P temporary housing project. In a joint statement yesterday, the Environmental Protection Bureau (DSPA) and the Public Works Bureau (DSOP) said that the issue has been worsened by ongoing cleaning operation. In light of these findings, an inter-departmental committee meeting was held yesterday to urge the project contractor to adopt effective mitigation measures. These measures include enhancing cleaning protocols, improving sealing during the cleaning process, and installing activated carbon filters at exhaust outlets to help alleviate the odors. The cleaning operations are expected to be completed within the week. In addition to the issues related to the temporary housing project, the discharge of sewage and sediment from the stormwater box culvert in Av. Norte do Hipodromo has also been identified as a sporadic source of odor. The inter-departmental committee has requested that the relevant cleansing company increase its efforts to regularly clean the stormwater channels, ensuring that sediment buildup does not contribute to the unpleasant smells. While the current odor issue is not directly linked to the design and construction of the northern section of the Light Rail Transit (LRT), the bureaus said it is taking proactive steps to mitigate any potential impacts. Measures include cleaning temporary drainage channels, diverting seawater to dilute effluents, and regularly flushing outfalls to prevent odor accumulation. Long-term plans are also underway to increase sewage treatment capacity, particularly with the ongoing development of a sewage treatment plant on the artificial island of the Macao Boundary Crossing Facilities of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. According to DSPA, the issue was raised in a written question by lawmaker Ron Lam, who pointed out that the mudflat development work for the construction of the light rail system has been underway for over a year. Residents have complained that the sewage interception pipes and the drainage outlet of the pumping station are clogged with stones and waste, causing the accumulation of sludge and the release of a foul smell. In response, the DSPA explained that in 2016, there were only three rainwater discharge outlets along Av. Norte do Hipodromo, and the wastewater interception works completed in 2019 covered these three outlets. However, DSPA has now revealed that there are five rainwater drainage points near the seafront, with two of them also draining wastewater. Residents in the area have reported experiencing a persistent foul smell when walking in the area, and some have even observed oil and other floating objects on the sea surface. Lam has called for the government to investigate the reasons for the misconnection of storm sewers, including whether the relevant design companies need to be held accountable and the source of the sewage. Lawmaker Leong Hong Sai has suggested that interception projects should be carried out at outfalls where sewage is found, and sewage should be directed into sewage treatment plants. Victoria Chan A schoolyard where you might hear childish insults. - Credit: Howard Schnapp/Newsday RM/Getty Images As someone who grew up in the U.S. in the 1990s, I am all too familiar with a culture in which anything you and your friends disapprove of is retarded, and anybody you might care to insult is a retard. And, like others my age who grew out of such harmful language not long after graduating from middle school, I have been dismayed to see it flood into mainstream adult discourse over the past few years, abetted by social media and its laziest, most callous shitposters. You have Anna Khachiyan of the edgelord podcast Red Scare, which helped repopularize these terms, using that word to describe progressives in the wake of the 2024 election; Elon Musk replying F u retard to a Finnish doctoral student on his platform X (formerly Twitter) who accurately described him as a historically dangerous purveyor of disinformation; and countless users across alt-tech sites including Kick, Rumble, Gab, and Truth Social who have inserted the word in their account handle. TikTok blocks you from searching the slur, noting that it may be associated with hateful behavior a change implemented after Mashable contacted them about the use of the word on the app but its all over Facebook and Reddit. Disability advocates have been sounding the alarm for months as the word has once more became entrenched as a commonplace eptithet, despite their long and tireless campaign to protect the intellectually disabled from pejorative abuse. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is there a point anymore in explaining what makes the r-word offensive? Everybody knows why its ugly and vicious. Todays trolls use it because it crosses a contested boundary, as a deliberate (if uninspired) provocation. The same way reactionaries misgender and deadname transgender individuals in hopes of triggering them, the r-word has lately served as an anti-virtue signal, affirmation that the speaker is not bound by the standards of wokeness, which of course is the updated idiom for that older conservative bugbear, political correctness. Mocking preferred pronouns and putting down a person who disagrees with you as a retard are two functions of the same ideological reflex system. Much continues to be written about how the harsh vulgarity of President-elect Donald Trump has coarsened the national conversation since he launched his 2016 campaign. Critics of this coverage are correct when they note that the recklessly destructive way Trump wields power is more important than his violations of state decorum, those ill-mannered outbursts that leave longtime Beltway observers gasping about the dignity of the office and so forth. Yet the invective Trump pours out in public statements encodes, quite clearly, his atrocious agenda: His open racism toward migrants advertises a dystopian border policy, and his misogyny is a not-so-tacit endorsement of laws that choke off womens access to life-saving reproductive care. Where the r-slur is concerned, one recalls Trumps grotesque imitation in 2015 of New York Times reporter Serge Kovaleski, who has arthrogryposis, a congenital joint condition. Trump flailed his arms at awkward angles and pulled a distended face in this little performance, disqualifying for any another era indeed, the following April, likely voters polled on his controversies judged it his worst offense to date. Now it is a distant memory, even though this mockery of Kovaleskis ailment prefigured his attempts to deprive millions of Americans of medical insurance by repealing the Affordable Care Act. We have since witnessed that strain of cruelty again and again, with Trump and the MAGA movement indulging their fascistic impulse to dehumanize their opponents in Washington, members of the press, and voters aligned against the authoritarian proposals of Project 2025. When culture warriors throw around the r-word online, its a reminder that theyre not interested in civic debate, and never were they imply not only that leftists and liberals are wrong, but that these groups are not entitled to an opinion, and, moreover, lack the means to form a coherent idea in the first place. The American right objects to Black mayors or female CEOs as mere DEI hires without the qualifications to occupy those roles, and smears detractors as the unproductive refuse of a supposedly meritocratic society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its no coincidence that Musk and his tech-bro cult are meanwhile fixated on IQ scores, a highly suspect metric of intelligence, when peddling the pseudoscience of their biological superiority. Eugenics have roared back into fashion among the Silicon Valley elite, prompting ever wilder justifications for the belief that whites of European descent possess some evolutionary advantage, and inevitably leading to the dark question of whether certain demographics shouldnt reproduce. (Whereas the pro-natalist Musk is reportedly offering his sperm to women in order to spread his precious DNA far and wide, his father, Errol Musk, has outright suggested that having babies should be like breeding horses.) Children shouting retard at recess can easily be made to understand how it isolates and stigmatizes their developmentally disabled peers. The same ought to go for those of us already old enough to know better. As a redditor recently wrote in a thread on the topic: I used to work as a job developer for people with developmental disabilities. Every once in a while in an overheard conversation or on the radio/TV, someone would jokingly call their friend or co-worker retarded. My clients would never get mad or make a big deal out of it, they would just say something like oh to themselves and get real quiet and not really interact with anyone for the rest of the day. The word, even if its not in reference to them, this user explained, shuts them down and reminds them they arent who they wish to be. Yet the increasingly normalized and casual use of the slur in the digital public square is so far removed from this framework of basic empathy, and from the euphemistic origins of the expression a clinical term twisted for the purposes of disparagement that the appeal to decency doesnt apply. Xs own policy against hateful conduct forbids attacks on the basis of disability, and if you pressed Musk on his violations of that rule, hed probably demand that his targets produce documentation of their cognitive impairment to prove the personal injury. Its nothing but a recursive semantic game to this crowd, pressing the big red button for a totally predictable reaction. I realized it was retarded of me to say retard, Musk mused last month, when his lackeys were commending his latest post using the word. Nobody else reads these as the quips of an enlightened futurist. Like Trumps repetitive attacks on favorite scapegoats, they are verbal spam, designating specific targets as undeserving of safety, self-fulfillment, or a say in the direction society is taking. Its almost fortunate that their naked contempt exposes their goal of disenfranchisement. When battling that tide, though, it will be crucial to hold on to language that correctly diagnoses the moment and its villains not the kind that tramples the innocent. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. WASHINGTON, D.C. American railroads are facing an employment crisis in a time of epochal change, urgently looking to attract young jobseekers to replace an aging workforce while competing with other supply chain businesses for scarce talent. Its a quandary that was explored Monday during a panel discussion at the Transportation Research Boards 104th annual meeting. The five-day multimodal conference which hosts hundreds of researchers, academics, and representatives from the public and private sectors runs through Thursday. Panelist Peter Swan, a former railroader and retired Penn State professor, said that there is an ongoing process of degradation of trades-type jobs that keep railroads running. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There has been a shift in management from people to systems, said Swan. Automation in track maintenance, equipment and operations means skill degradation for the blue collars. Manual track inspection is being replaced by sensors, and car inspection may be done entirely by machine. Locomotive engineers may be replaced by monitors, from two-person to one-person to no -person, crews. The long trains now being run with distributed power are more difficult to handle, and the skillset of an engineer may not be as important in the future as it was in the past. Those changes, he said, are going to put a premium on companies hiring engineers of a different kind, in the mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, and industrial information technology areas. The railroads will need to hire, retain, and develop these people, said Swan, who expects artificial intelligence to be central to railroads before most other industries. They are going to need systems managers not people managers. Colleges and universities are a ready source for future railroaders, particularly research institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research attracts money, and that would help focus engineers on railroad technology, attracting pre- and post-graduates, he said. For blue collar trades, community colleges can provide skilled education for specific jobs. Immersing would-be employees in the rail milieu, at a young age, can put the field on their radar later in life. Tracks to the Future, for example, is a summer program hosted by colleges for high school students to investigate a career path in railroad transportation and engineering. Were a rail supplierof talent, said Pasi Lautala, a professor at Michigan Tech. Its answering the question of how we get people to the industry through the education pathway. Pre-university programs are effective. The American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) has established student chapters at 20 colleges, Lautala noted, adding that of the 1000 students who have come through his schools rail program, half have gone on to internships or full-time jobs in railroading. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lautala said that scholarships get younger students excited about rail, while research awards get attention from university leadership. They say, What is this rail thing? But, much more marketing from the industry would help. Educators said that its important to recognize that new job types are emerging in supply chain and transportation. Its becoming an interdisciplinary field, said Dong-Jun Min, a professor at the University of New Orleans. A student needs an education in science, technology, and management before they can get a good job. We should have those kind of programs at colleges and universities. And grades K-12 are very, very important. We need to market ourselves better to the new generations. There are particular challenges for smaller railroads, many with fewer resources for training and prospecting for new applicants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How do we train people in the railroad ethos? asked Amy Kraus, vice president with the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), an industry group representing non-Class 1 carriers. What the organization did, Krause said, was win a federal Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant to establish a training center. The program has onboarded 800 employees from 70 railroad operators, offering a diverse disciplines ranging from locomotive operations to leadership development. Kritika Jetley, assistant director of public projects for BNSF Railway, recalled that in a decade at the company she has worked in track engineering, intermodal operations, network strategy, and is now back in engineering. We have 37,000 employees, and there is a lot of workforce development on an annual basis after hiring, said Jetley. Employees frequently have to be certified in certain areas, so we train and re-train. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The railroad, which operates in 27 states, has education partnerships with community colleges in Kansas City, Denver, Barstow, and Lincoln, Neb., which collectively have attracted 2,335 students and 12,700 participants. Said Jetley, That helps build a workforce that is local for BNSF employees, and empowers colleges to independently build curriculum for non-BNSF employees. We are invested in that. For example, BNSF supported Montana State Universitys success grant application for workforce development. Moderator Kevin Keller, vice president at engineering firm HDR, suggested the rail industry would be well-served to develop a unified curriculum for higher learning. Its a critical time, the industry is transforming itself into a more preferred mode of transportation for the future, said Keller. The adoption of biofuels and hydrogen, and AI, are going to require specialized skill sets five years from now. The question is, how do we recruit and how do we train? Its going to take an effort from all of us. The TRBs Committee on Freight Rail Transportation is developing a Research Needs Statement (RNS) for education, as a way to attract funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we do this right theres funding out there, he said. $140 million of the last round of CRISI grants was for workforce development. The federal government is willing to fund. A unified approach is what we need. Find more articles by Stuart Chirls here. Related coverage: Disruptions panel: Supply chain stronger after pandemic, but more work is needed CMA CGM delays US East Coast container surcharge Maersk urges container pickup ahead of potential port strike The post Railroads dilemma: The good jobs no one knows about appeared first on FreightWaves. (NewsNation) The Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed to NewsNation that the Kenneth Fire is now being investigated as an arson case, and one person is in custody. More than 34,000 acres have been burned in total as wildfires continue to rage across the Los Angeles area. As the multiple wildfires rage on, at least 20 people have been arrested on looting charges and 400 National Guard members have been deployed for traffic control and infrastructure protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials have said almost 180,000 people are under evacuation orders because of all the fires, and thousands have been displaced. President Joe Biden addressed the nation, announcing that he had signed a fire management systems grant and a major disaster declaration in response to the fires. How to help victims of LA wildfires Click here to view the LAPDs interactive evacuation zone map. Cost-sharing will be waived, with the federal government covering 100% of the costs for 180 days. Spare no expense, Biden said. Biden also announced additional resources for California, including 400 federal firefighters, more than 30 helicopters and planes, eight C-130s from the Defense Department that are equipped to suppress wildfires and 500 ground-clearing personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president also addressed the water shortage and reports from people who said hydrants were out, explaining that utilities had shut off power for fear lines would be blown down and fuel fires or spark additional ones, which resulted in a loss of pressure at hydrants. He said generators would be used to restore pressure. Biden also praised local leaders in California for their response to the disaster. Vice President Kamala Harris, whose home is in the evacuation area, called the fires apocalyptic and thanked firefighters for the work they are doing. What we know about how the LA wildfires started Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is something that is going to have an impact for months and years to come, she said. Harris also addressed the fact that several major insurers have pulled away from offering coverage in California, which will increase the difficulty of recovery for many families. The vice president spoke about those who have opened their homes to displaced people and volunteered to help address the needs of the community. In times of crisis, we find the heroes among us, who we may not have known before, Harris said. Federal officials noted that the fires are happening earlier in the year than usual, driven by Santa Ana winds, as a result of climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are beyond the point of calling it fire season, Harris said about climate change and wildfires. Helicopters are dropping water from the air, and hundreds of firefighters continue to be on the scene to help respond to the emergencies. California Gov. Gavin Newsom thanked neighboring governors Tina Kotek, Jay Inslee and Katie Hobbs for sending additional firefighters to assist. Biden quickly approved Newsoms request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration to support ongoing response efforts. Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath said all Los Angeles Unified and Santa Monica-Malibu School Districts remain closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch: Reporter douses flames endangering California home on live TV A spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department said Wednesday that five people have died in the wildfires, but Thursday, Sheriff Robert Luna said its too early to discuss the total number of deaths. David Walters with the Los Angeles Fire Department on Thursday got his first break from the front lines in two days. Were pretty much trying to keep what is left here standing and so were not laying down. Were staying in our positions, Walters said in an interview with NewsNation. I did sleep on top of the hose bed last night, just staying ready to do what we can still do. Where are the LA area fires burning? Multiple fires are burning in the area, according to this map. Palisades Fire causes state of emergency declaration As of Wednesday afternoon, the rapidly moving wildfire in the Pacific Palisades area has spread to more than 19,978 acres. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wind gusts in the Palisades are up to 60 mph and will continue throughout Thursday, Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said. An estimated 5,316 structures were damaged or destroyed in the Pacific Palisades fire, which also resulted in two confirmed fatalities. It is far worse than the areas second-most destructive blaze, according to statistics kept by the Wildfire Alliance, a partnership between the citys fire department and MySafe, The Associated Press reports. There were a high number of significant injuries to residents who did not evacuate, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said, as well as some wounded first responders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The blaze was first reported as a vegetation fire around 10:30 a.m. PT Tuesday. Eaton Fire grows to more than 13,600 acres An additional fire erupted around 7:30 p.m. PT Tuesday in the Eaton Canyon area north of Altadena, roughly 40 miles east of the Pacific Palisades blaze. As of Tuesday, the Eaton Fire is at 13,690 acres, according to CALFIRE. Marrone said that growth has been significantly stopped, although the blaze is still at 0% containment. A total of 1,527 personnel have been assigned to the Eaton fire. Several injuries have been reported, and 4,000 to 5,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. Additionally, a firefighter is in stable condition after a reported fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday night, the city of Pasadena government warned that debris and elevated turbidity from the fire potentially impacted its drinking water system. Officials urged residents not to use tap water for drinking or cooking for now. An expected timeframe for a solution is unknown, they said on X. Because of what it said is an overwhelming amount of donations and support, Pasadena said it is no longer able to accept food, water, emergency supplies or donations of any kind until further notice. Hurst Fire 10% contained: CALFIRE Mandatory evacuations were ordered Tuesday night for a fire near Diamond Road, Sylmar. The Hurst Fire started around 10:29 p.m. PT Tuesday night and is at 671 acres, CALFIRE said Thursday afternoon. CALFIRE said it is 10% contained. Lidia Fire The Lidia Fire is being reported at approximately 348 acres near the 5700 block of Soledad Canyon Road in Acton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is 60% contained, according to the Angeles National Forest. Woodley Fire A fire in North Woodley Avenue, Sepulveda Basin, started at 6:15 a.m. Wednesday, according to CAL Fire. The Woodley Fire has burned 30 acres. Crowley said Thursday that it is now contained. Sunset Fire in Hollywood Hills As officials were providing a media update about the fires around 5:50 p.m., Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley announced that a new blaze had broken out in the Hollywood Hills near Runyon Canyon. She said all available resources were responding and excused herself to attend to that blaze. Evacuation orders were issued Wednesday evening, but Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department officials later said fire activity had decreased. The closed section of the Sunset Fire in the area north of Franklin was opened and evacuation orders were lifted Thursday morning, the Los Angeles Fire Department said, adding that people should still be careful while returning to their homes. Kenneth Fire The Kenneth Fire, which erupted close to homes in the area of Calabasas and Hidden Hills, is now being investigated as an arson case. LAPD told NewsNations Brian Entin that one person is in custody. The fire was first reported around 2:30 p.m. in an area of dry brush in the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve, north of U.S. Highway 101. The Kenneth Fire has burned over 900 acres and is 0% contained. A map showing the evacuation zones for the Kenneth Fire in the Calabasas/West Hills area as of 3:45 p.m. on Jan. 9, 2025. (LAFD) LAFD issued a mandatory evacuation order for neighborhoods north of the 101 Freeway from Colony Road to the west, Orrville Avenue to the east, and north to Burbank Road. By 5:30 p.m., the order was downgraded to a warning and encompassed only a limited area of homes west of the fire and east of Valley Circle Road. How to stay safe during Southern Californias latest Santa Ana wind event What has been impacted? On Thursday night, the number of power outages surged to 1,895,630, a sharp increase from 418,339 reported just an hour earlier. Los Angeles Department of Water and Power CEO and Chief Engineer Janisse Quinones said power has been restored for about 200,000 customers in the city. Restoration times are ranging from 24-48 hours, Quinones said. Hundreds of road signals remain out, Mark Pestrella, director of Los Angeles County Public Works Director, said, and sewer, power and transportation systems have been damaged significantly. Air and dust advisories are in effect for 17 million people across a vast stretch of Southern California, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The air quality index hit 173 in East Los Angeles. Good air quality is considered to be 50 or less. AccuWeather estimates $52 billion to $57 billion in preliminary damage and economic loss has occurred from the raging Los Angeles area wildfires. How do wildfires start, and how long do they last? The LA Metro suspended fares Wednesday and Thursday after intermittent power outages made it difficult for riders to purchase and load fare cards. Luna said his department made 20 arrests for looting. Closures include NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, The Getty Center in Los Angeles and the Getty Villa, which will not open until Monday, Jan. 13. Angeles National Forest is temporarily closed for public safety through Wednesday, Jan.15. On X, the Los Angeles Lakers basketball team announced their Thursday game is being rescheduled. So far, the Wild Card playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams football team and Minnesota Vikings is still set for SoFi Stadium on Monday. If needed, though, the teams said they will play in Phoenix. The Altadena Golf Course has been destroyed, according to Johnny Eusebio, general manager. The Palisades Fire has destroyed the historic ranch house that belonged to Hollywood legend Will Rogers. Los Angeles County has lost several facilities to fire, including the Eaton Canyon nature center and a senior center, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said at a media briefing Wednesday afternoon. In addition, the Bunny Museum, which had been open for 26 years in Altadena, burned to the ground, according to a Facebook post. The organization that puts on the Oscars extended its voting window for Academy Awards nominations, delaying the announcement of them initially set for next week. What are officials doing? At a news conference Wednesday, Marrone said there are not enough firefighters in LA County to address four separate fires of this size, even with additional resources. The LA County Fire Department was prepared for one or two major brush fires, but not four, he said. The fires are also straining the water supply in the region, with firefighters complaining Tuesday night that fire hydrants were out of water. Why arent my fire hydrants full? asked resident Rachel Darvis. Thats going to be the question in the next election. There have to be consequences. Asked at a Thursday news conference about whether she was frustrated about fire hydrants not being full, Bass said of course she was. We all know that this has been an unprecedented event, Bass said. We also know that fire hydrants are not constructed to deal with this kind of devastation. The problem was that the lack of air support because of the winds limited the citys response, Bass said. Crowley added that if places still dont have water, they will find it. When a reporter asked about the city slashing $17.5m from the fire department budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Bass claimed no reductions made would have affected the wildfires, instead blaming unprecedented wind storms. Rest assured, when that is done, when we are safe, when lives have been saved and homes have been saved, we will absolutely do an evaluation to look at what worked, what didnt work, and to correct, or to hold accountable, anybody, department, individual, etc., Bass said. Pestrella said the agencys current goal is utility restoration and clearing debris. People should not be removing debris themselves, he stressed. The municipal water system continues to suffer from poor quality, so some areas will remain in a boil water advisory, he said. With all caution, anyone whos remained behind, if there is any residence in your area that has burned to the ground and you are still there, you should just go ahead and boil water, Pestrella said. The strain on the municipal water system is not sustainable, so air drops are crucial, he added. Two Type I wildland firefighting hand crews from Californias National Guard were activated to support emergency response to the wildfires. Map shows hazardous air quality due to California fires The Defense Department is sending additional assets to California to assist with the massive wildfire spreading across Los Angeles and the southern part of the state. Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters Wednesday the U.S. was sending 10 Navy helicopters with water buckets. Trump blames Newsom for Californias raging wildfires President-elect Donald Trump blamed California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Thursday for the wildfires raging in Los Angeles. Newsom and the mayor are largely incompetent, Trump said. What theyve done is terrible. What resources are being offered? Animal shelters have been established for residents affected by the wildfires. People can go to http://lacounty.gov/emergency for more information. Airbnb announced it would work with local authorities to offer temporary housing for people affected by the fires. Uber is offering free rides up to $40 to get to active shelters with the promo code WILDFIRE25. Three evacuation centers for people and 12 for animals have been established so far for people fleeing the wildfires burning in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena and other Los Angeles neighborhoods. Another evacuation shelter, El Camino Real Charter High School, wrote on its Facebook page that it was accepting donations of food and water for evacuees. The Pasadena Humane Society wrote on Facebook that it had taken in more than 100 animals overnight and was taking in more, but kennel space was filling up. The organization was directing some evacuees to a partner shelter and is looking for volunteers to foster large dogs for a week or more. Watch Duty, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group, has an app that alerts people of nearby fires and first responder efforts in real-time. Both the Los Angeles County Emergency Management Office and the American Red Cross are posting updated lists of evacuation sites on their websites. The White House says the emergency declaration approved by Biden allows for federal funding to be made available to impacted individuals in Los Angeles County for temporary housing and home repairs as well as low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs aimed at helping individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Palisades fire forces celebs to evacuate Firefighters work to extinguish flames engulfing a home as a brush fire rages in Pacific Palisades, California, on January 7, 2025. A fast-moving brushfire in a Los Angeles suburb burned buildings and sparked evacuations Tuesday as life threatening winds whipped the region. More than 200 acres (80 hectares) was burning in Pacific Palisades, a upscale spot with multi-million dollar homes in the Santa Monica Mountains, shuttering a key highway and blanketing the area with thick smoke. (Photo by David Swanson / AFP) (Photo by DAVID SWANSON/AFP via Getty Images) PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIF JANUARY 7, 2024 A firefighting plane makes a drop on the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The Palisades fire is being pushed by gusting Santa Ana winds that were expected to continue for two more days. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) A firefighter battles the advancing Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent) Firefighters battle the advancing Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent) PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIF JANUARY 7, 2024 A firefighting helicopter makes a drop on the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday, Jan. 7. The Palisades fire is being pushed by gusting Santa Ana winds that were expected to continue for two more days. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) PACIFIC PALISADES, CA JANUARY 07: Anne Tierney leaves her Sunset Boulevard apartment during the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, California on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. (Photo by Sarah Reingewirtz/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images) A woman cries as the Palisades Fire advances in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent) PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA JANUARY 07: People watch as others drive out of harms way as the Palisades Fire burns amid a powerful windstorm on January 7, 2025 in Pacific Palisades, California. The fast-moving wildfire is threatening homes in the coastal neighborhood amid intense Santa Ana Winds and dry conditions in Southern California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood in Los Angeles that is home to many high-profile entertainers. Residents were finding their escape routes congested and slow-moving, NewsNation local affiliate KTLA reported. Pacific Palisades current honorary mayor, actor Eugene Levy, told the Los Angeles Times that the smoke looked pretty black and intense over Temescal Canyon, adding that he couldnt see any flames but the smoke was very dark. Actor Steve Guttenberg urged residents to band together and help everyone get to safety in an interview with the outlet. Dont worry about your personal property, just get out, get your loved ones and get out, he pleaded, adding that he had friends in the area who were under evacuation orders but were currently stuck without a clear way out. Universal Studios of Hollywood, the theme park located in Universal City between Pasadena and the Pacific Palisades was closed Wednesday. Meanwhile, the studio canceled shooting for numerous series, including Hacks, Ted Lasso and Suits LA. The Critics Choice Awards rescheduled their Sunday ceremonies for Jan. 26, as they are held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica which is only miles away from Palisades. Photos: Los Angeles wildfire engulfs Pacific Palisades Palisades wildfire map: Who has evacuated? As of Wednesday night at 8 CT, evacuations have been extended from Santa Monica to San Vicente. CALFIRE ordered evacuations for the entire community down to the Pacific Ocean for an immediate threat to life as of 3 p.m. PT Tuesday. Malibu on Wednesday urged residents not under evacuation orders to prepare to leave. City officials say people in the affected zones should leave now, including those in evacuation warning areas who may need additional time to get out. Police were being deployed to help with evacuations, the city wrote on its website. The city says its Big Blue Bus is offering free transport every hour to evacuation centers. Authorities shut down the Pacific Coast Highway from the Interstate 10 freeway to Topanga Canyon, allowing only limited access to facilitate the movement of evacuees and emergency vehicles. Actor Steve Guttenberg jumps into action as brush fire burns in Pacific Palisades Santa Ana windstorm fueling Los Angeles fire The National Weather Service said what could be the strongest Santa Ana windstorm in more than a decade began Tuesday across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. On Wednesday, wind gusts over 90 mph were reported, with a peak wind gust of 100 mph reported at Mount Lukens. NewsNation affiliate KTLA and The Associated Press contributed to this story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) An inch-long butterfly at the center of a conflict over a geothermal power plant is about to get a powerful friend the federal government. On Tuesday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed protections under the Endangered Species Act for the bleached sandhill skipper, a butterfly with pale golden-orange markings that is known to exist only in alkali wetlands near Baltazor Hot Spring. The site is along the Nevada-Idaho border. Patrick Donnelly, Great Basin director at the Center for Biological Diversity, has been involved for years in the effort to protect the sandhill skipper, petitioning the government to invoke the Endangered Species Act. That process began in August 2022, and took another step forward in August 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Impact on groundwater from the geothermal project could adversely affect wetlands in Humboldt County that are crucial to the butterflys survival, according to advocates. Recent annual surveys found fewer than 1,000 of the butterflies, according to the center. The bleached sandhill skipper needs the same thing to survive that we do: water, Donnelly said. With these endangered species protections, we arent just protecting charming little butterflies and their wetland habitat. Were protecting the water that sustains all life in the desert, including our own. Donnellys group has been engaged in battles to protect another endangered species, the Dixie Valley toad, involving the same geothermal developer, Ormat Nevada. The group is also suing to stop a lithium mine that poses a threat to Tiehms buckwheat, an endangered wildflower. That project moved ahead despite flagrant violation of environmental protection laws, Donnelly said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 8 News Now has reached out to a representative for Ormat for comment. The center cites other threats to the sandhill skipper, too. Livestock grazing and drought are damaging the butterflys habitat. Alfalfa farms have also affected groundwater. The caterpillars of the bleached sandhill skipper use saltgrass for food and shelter, while adult butterflies feed on nectar from rabbitbrush. Both plants require constant supplies of groundwater for survival, Donnelly said. The bleached sandhill skipper is a miracle in the desert, and this is a big step toward preserving a unique butterfly adapted to the harsh conditions of alkali wetlands,: Donnelly said. The wetlands these butterflies need to survive will dry up and blow away unless we can protect the water that sustains them. Endangered species protections can help ensure this rare butterfly is still here for future generations. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." The famous Schrodingers Cat thought experiment is a simple example of how quantum systems give rise to classical reality. But is such an outcome inevitable? A new study, relying on the many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanicsalong with a concept known as decoherent historiesshows that increased energy levels suppress possibilities until only single states remain. This suggests that classical reality can evolve from a purely quantum foundation. Discoveries over the past century have undeniably confirmed that we live in a quantum world. But, strangely, what we discern as real is undeniably classical. This conundrum underpins nearly every facet of quantum mechanics: how do quantum interactions give rise to the classical reality of our everyday experience? This question is most famously illustrated by the thought experiment known as Schrodingers Cat, which essentially breaks down a quantum effect as if it operated on a macro scale. As a brief refresher, this experiment explains how the state of a catdead or alivein an enclosed box is uncertain until that box is opened and an outside observation creates reality. However, physics cant yet explain how catsor, in the quantum sense, atomscan go from two states to one. So, an idea known as the many worlds interpretation has been put forth, which suggests that both states occur and branch into ever-different multiverses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new study from scientists at the Autonomous University of Barcelona in Spain, drawing on this many worlds interpretation, seemingly explains why our classical reality emerges. The results of the study were published in the journal Physical Review X. We live in a quantum world, as far as the experiments we do can tell, Joseph Schindler, a co-author of the study from Autonomous University of Barcelona, said to New Scientist. So then why do I end up having all these [non-quantum] classical experiences? To answer this question, the researchers worked with a concept known as decoherent histories. This idea asserts that every physical process is the result of a a series of steps in a definite sequence that provides a record of past behavior. The researchers, physicist Michael Hall wrote for Physics, used powerful computers to simulate quantum evolution up to 50,000 energy levels. They found that large-scale branching still occurred, confirming the idea that classical reality is able to form from a purely quantum foundation. We ask: how does decoherence emerge as system size increases?, Philipp Strasber, a co-author of the study from Autonomous University of Barcelona, said on X (formerly known as Twitter) . Answer: exponentially fast for slow and coarse observables (observables we humans care about) in chaotic many-body systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Essentially, as objects were made bigger by several thousand particles, the research team found that they eventually ended up in a world that obeyed classical physics. Its very generic, almost inevitable, Strasberg told New Scientist. This is good news for people who want to live in a classical world. Of course, questions remain. For example, this study assumes that all universes behave in the same way, leaving room for the idea of a system coughing up a reality where the cat is both dead and alive, according to ScienceAlert. If such a quantum feline nightmare is possible, it might be worth sticking with a more classical reality. You Might Also Like 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, according to our sister station Boston 25. 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border dropped to a five-year low this week, amid the holidays and the Biden administration's ongoing efforts to contain unlawful crossings at the border. U.S. Border Patrol logged an average of 1,000 daily migrant encounters in the seven days that ended on Jan. 5 along the U.S.-Mexico border, a senior U.S. Customs and Border Protection official told USA TODAY on Monday. Guatemalan migrants walk after arriving at La Aurora Air Force Base on a deportation flight from the U.S., in Guatemala City, Guatemala, November 8, 2024. The agency hasn't seen average daily crossings at that level since April 2020, the official said. At the time, it was the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when global travel and migration slowed dramatically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border typically dip right after the winter holidays. But the early January average was a quarter of what it was during the same week a year ago when average daily encounters topped 4,000, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak with the press. More: As Trump plans mass deportation, Mexican views of migration harden Even nine months ago, Border Patrol was reporting 1,000 migrant encounters a day in a single sector. "Encounters" refer to both migrants apprehended while trying to evade authorities and those who turn themselves in to border agents, seeking asylum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the El Paso Sector, which stretches from West Texas through New Mexico, border agents were encountering a daily average of 1,004 migrants during a seven-day period in late April, according to the city of El Paso's migrant "situational awareness" dashboard. "We anticipated that more people would come to the U.S. or seek asylum in the U.S. around Christmastime or around the New Year," which is a typical seasonal pattern before numbers trail off, said Kari Lenander, executive director of the Border Servant Corps, a New Mexico-based nonprofit that provides migrant aid. "In fact, numbers have decreased not only in the El Paso Sector but also border-wide," she said. Two Border Patrol sectors are seeing the majority of the crossings in the first days of the year, the San Diego Sector in California and the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, according to the Customs and Border Protection official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Border Patrol encounters don't include the migrants processed each day by U.S. customs officers at ports of entry. The Customs and Border Protection takes up to 1,450 appointments daily via the Biden administration's CBP One app, which migrants can use to make an appointment to seek asylum. Migration swings from record highs to record lows The number of migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border has swung dramatically during the administration of President Joe Biden, surging to record highs in 2022 and 2023 before dropping in the administration's final year to levels not seen since the first Trump administration. More: Donald Trump picks border patrol chief ousted by Joe Biden as new customs leader U.S. Border Patrol reported more than 2 million migrant encounters per year each in fiscal 2022 and 2023, numbers that fueled criticism by Republicans about the administration's record on border security. Encounters dropped to 1.5 million in fiscal 2024, which ended in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Migrant encounters hit a historic one-month record above 249,000 in December 2023 prompting the Biden administration to shut down key ports of entry with Mexico in a move to get Mexico to do more to enforce its own borders. In December 2024, the U.S. Border Patrol reported 47,300 encounters, a more than 80% decline year over year. "This sustained success is the result of strong border enforcement, extensive engagement with our foreign partners and the delivery of safe and lawful pathways that continue to provide humanitarian relief under our laws, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. Biden worked with Mexico to increase its enforcement of migrant routes north. Then, in June, the administration sharply restricted access to asylum between ports of entry, while continuing to process asylum-seekers via CBP One appointments at the ports. The number of encounters between ports of entry fell by a third after the asylum restrictions and has held near that level for six months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ramped up deportations in fiscal 2024 to the highest level since the Obama administration. The administration also began providing aid to Panama to increase its repatriation flights and crack down on illegal crossings through the Darien Gap, a jungle route many migrants take from South America, headed for the U.S. border. "None of these things is long-term," said Adam Isacson, director of defense oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America. "Now, the new phenomenon is the arrival of Donald Trump. I think people are going to wait for the next few months to see what happens," before deciding whether they attempt to cross the border, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20, has promised to "seal the border" and launch a mass deportation as part of his signature campaign promise to reduce unlawful immigration. Start your day informed: Sign up for USA TODAY's Daily Briefing newsletter. (This story has been updated to add new information.) Lauren Villagran can be reached at lvillagran@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Illegal immigration drops at US-Mexico border This year, Grand Lisboa Palace will host a new residency show, as announced by the gaming operator. SJM Resorts, in partnership with the renowned Hong Kong Ballet, is inviting talented male and female dancers with strong skills in ballet or contemporary dance to audition for The Adventures of Alice @ Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. This reimagined classic story will come to life through performances, imaginative costumes, and up-close interaction with the audience under the guidance of artistic professionals. Successful candidates will be engaged on short-term performance contracts . Septime Webre, the artistic director of the Hong Kong Ballet, emphasizes the unique benefits of participating in The Adventures of Alice residency show. He highlights how this program serves as a platform for dancers to elevate their careers and showcase their talents. The production, choreographed by Webre, will be performed on selected days throughout 2025 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. The experience features a lively parade, whimsical performances, and interactive workshops, taking place on a state-of-the-art 360-degree stage at the Atrium on Level 1 of the resort. Auditions will be held on Jan. 11 and Jan. 12 at the Macao Conservatory School of Dance and the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, respectively. VC YORK, Va. (WAVY) York County Fire and Life Safety is investigating an overnight garage fire in the Lackey area of York. According to officials, on Monday just before midnight, crews were dispatched to the 700 block of Baptist Road for reports of a residential structure fire. Crews arrived to the scene and found fire and smoke coming primarily from the attached garage. The four residents and two dogs were able to make it out of the house after being alerted by smoke alarms. Baptist Road fire (Courtesy: York County Fire and Life Safety) Fire crews said the garage sustained significant fire damage, and the Red Cross was called for assistance. No injuries have been reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 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. Both Rock Island and Moline have implemented or considered bans on establishing more vape shops. (Gavin Waidelich, OurQuadCities.com) In October, the city of Rock Island placed a temporary moratorium on vape shops. In December, the city that moratorium to June, believing it needs more time to decide what to do. Are we going to make flavored vapes illegal or available or not, said Rock Island Mayor Mike Thoms. At this point the state does allow them, can we as a city make a step in not allowing those. Were also, Ill admit, dragging our feet a little bit, because we want to see where the state is going with their laws and how they want to regulate it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other side of the river, the state of Iowa is cracking down on what vape products are to be available to the public. A deputy with the Scott County Sheriffs office says vaping is a huge growing issue among kids. The office announced Friday it would re-implement its I-Pledge program to reduce the number of illegal vape sales. Whats happened is, the old smoking in the boys room that was 25, 30 years ago has now become vaping, said Jamey Fah, a student resource officer at Pleasant Valley High School. Its just a different delivery system for the nicotine. The more concerning issue with vapes over cigarettes is that the dosages and the amount of nicotine is much higher and much more frequent. Theres also candy flavors and all these things that make them more enticing to kids. Mayor Thoms hopes Moline joining the effort can encourage more state-bordering cities to adopt a similar policy. I actually encourage the other Illinois Quad Cities to do the same, it makes it a lot simpler to implement these processes when youre unified, said Thoms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city of Moline will be discussing the possible moratorium at Tuesdays city council meeting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Students exit St. Dominic Academy in Auburn, Maine. The school is one of two that is appealing a federal court decision that requires religious institutions to adhere to the states nondiscrimination law to receive public funding. (Photo by Becket) Two religious schools in Maine are appealing a federal court decision that requires them to adhere to the states nondiscrimination law to receive public funding. Last year, both Crosspoint Church, which operates Bangor Christian Schools, and St. Dominic Academy in Auburn filed cases against the state in federal court asking to be exempt from the Maine Human Rights Act. Both religious organizations lost their cases in the United States District Court for the District of Maine, but their appeals will be heard in the U.S. Court of Appeals in Boston on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appeal is representative of a broader issue being debated across the country to determine to what extent states can continue to apply their general anti-discrimination laws to religious entities, especially when those religious entities take public money. If the appeals court rules in favor of Crosspoint or St. Dominics, religious schools in Maine will no longer have to comply with laws that ban discrimination on the basis of gender identity, sexual orientation or religion. They will also be on the list of school options parents in rural areas can choose to send their children to. If the lower court decision is upheld, Maine can continue requiring all schools who take public money to follow the states anti-discrimination provision. The Maine Human Rights Act is intended to protect people from discrimination. The purpose of the law is not to interfere with anyones religion, and the purpose matters, said Zach Heiden, chief counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union of Maine. If the government passed a law intending to harm Catholics or Muslims, that would be unconstitutional. But laws that incidentally burden religion are generally okay. State argues for compliance with anti-discrimination law The seven Catholic virtues are listed on the wall of St. Dominic Academy in Auburn, Maine. (Photo by Becket) Towns in Maine that do not have their own public high schools or middle schools can pay to send residents to another public or private school. Before the local school unit can pay tuition to a private school, that private school must be approved by the Maine Department of Education to receive public funds. The same applies if parents want to use the tuition reimbursement program to send their children to out-of-state private schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These private schools also have to comply with all state laws, including the Maine Human Rights Act, which bans discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, and religion. But some religious schools have policies that may violate the states nondiscrimination law. For example, St. Dominics Academy will admit any student, but gives preference to those who are Catholic, according to the schools counsel, Ben Fleshman, an attorney with Becket, a law firm that describes its mission as protecting religious liberty. Bangor Christians website says it requires that students comply with the schools belief system. No student is admitted or allowed to remain in Bangor Christian Schools who does not agree and cooperate with the overall purpose and program of the school, the admissions page states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The schools attorney, Jeremy Dys, senior counsel for national religious freedom organization First Liberty Institute, said the policy is more expansive than that. Bangor Christian Schools policy requires that people recognize that sexual orientation, gender, all these things are created, theyre defined by God, he said. And any sexual activity outside of the marital union or an attempt to deny the created order of gender would be a violation of their religious beliefs. Christopher Taub, Maines chief deputy attorney general who is representing the state in the lawsuits, said these are examples of discrimination. The state has a compelling interest in stopping discrimination in schools. If youre going to take public money and educate children at public expense, our view is that you should be required to comply with the anti-discrimination provisions, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you dont want to comply with the Maine Human Rights Act, then dont take public funds. According to the religious schools, the anti-discrimination law is the states way of imposing its ideology and punishing institutions for having a contradictory belief system. The state of Maine says we have a better ideology, and we require you to believe what we believe, said Dys. When you make a public benefit available, you cannot lay roadblocks in the way for people of faith to take advantage of those benefits. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Maines religious schools Beginning in 1981, Maines religious schools were ineligible for tuition reimbursement. However, in 2018, David and Amy Carson of Glenburn sued the state to be able to send their children to Bangor Christian Schools and Temple Academy through the reimbursement program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though there had been several past lawsuits that failed to change Maines law, the Carson case went to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled with a 6-3 majority in 2022 that Maine could not disqualify certain private schools from public funding solely because they are religious, according to the majority opinion. Even though religious schools can now participate in tuition reimbursement, only one religious school Cheverus High School in Portland has applied for approval as a tuition-receiving school. Cheverus was granted approval in 2022, the first year that allowed for sectarian schools to receive public funding, and received approval again this year, according to a Maine Department of Education spokesperson. Most religious schools in the state havent applied yet because nobody wants to have their religious identity stripped away from them, Fleshman said. Taub said allowing religious schools an exemption would be unfair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In our view, what theyre looking for is not to be treated the same as other schools that participate, which is what the Supreme Court said we need to do, he said. But they actually want to be treated more favorably than other schools. Bangor Christian Schools did not apply for the program because Crosspoint Churchs ideology conflicts with the rules it would have to follow, according to Dys. They cant agree with what the state of Maine holds as the preferred belief system, and so to apply and say, Yes, were going to abide by the rules of the state of Maine, would be to violate the conscience of Crosspoint and Bangor Christian Schools, he said. Maine, I think, just fails to realize that our client wants to take advantage of this opportunity but in order for them to do that, they would have to disagree with two millennia of religious teaching, meaning that they would have to affirm the preferred ideological beliefs of the state of Maine. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE WESTFIELD, Ind. (AP) Decades after investigators unearthed thousands of human bones and bone fragments on a suspected Indiana serial killers property, a renewed quest is playing out in laboratories to solve a long-running mystery: Who were they? A new team working to identify the unknown dead says the key to their success will be getting relatives of men who vanished between the mid-1980s and the mid-1990s to provide samples of their own DNA. Those samples can then be screened against DNA profiles scientists are extracting from the remains, which were found starting in 1996 on Herbert Baumeisters sprawling suburban Indianapolis property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The original investigators believed that at least 25 people were buried at Baumeisters 18-acre (7.3-hectare) Fox Hollow Farm estate in Westfield, based on evidence that included 10,000 bones and bone fragments, as well as handcuffs and shotgun shells. Baumeister, a 49-year-old thrift store owner and married father of three, killed himself in Canada in July 1996 before police could question him, taking with him many secrets, including the names of his presumed victims. Investigators believed that while his family was away on trips, Baumeister, who frequented gay bars in Indianapolis, lured men to his home, where he killed and buried them. By the late 1990s, authorities had identified eight men using dental records and available DNA technologies. But then those efforts stopped, although the remains of at least 17 people may have still been unidentified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison said the renewed identification effort revealed that county officials at the time decided not to fund additional DNA testing, which essentially halted further efforts to identify the victims and placed the cost of a homicide investigation on family members of missing people. I cant speak for those investigators, but it was just game over, Jellison said. An unfinished job As decades slipped by, the bones and fragments sat in boxes at the University of Indianapolis' Human Identification Center, whose staff helped excavate the remains. That changed after Eric Pranger sent Jellison a Facebook message in late 2022. The Indianapolis man's family had long believed his older cousin, Allen Livingston, was among Baumeisters victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Livingston was 27 when he vanished in August 1993 after getting into someone elses car in downtown Indianapolis. After hearing about Baumeister three years later, his mother, Sharon Livingston, and other relatives began suspecting that Allen, who was bisexual, was among the dead. Jellison was about to take office when Pranger asked if he could help get some answers for his aunt, who had serious health problems. How do you say to no to that? Thats our job as coroners by statute, to identify the deceased, Jellison said. In late 2022, police took DNA samples from Sharon Livingston and one of her daughters. Jellison began working with a team that includes the Indiana State Police, the FBI, the Human Identification Center, local law enforcement and a private company that specializes in forensic genetic genealogy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A family finds some closure Staff at the Human Identification Center, where the remains are stored in a temperature- and humidity-controlled space, selected some of the most promising bones for DNA analysis. At the Indiana State Police Laboratory, scientists cut out sections of bone, froze them with liquid nitrogen and pulverized them into a fine powder. They then used heat and chemicals to break open bone cells in the first step toward extracting a full DNA profile. Nearly a year after hearing from Pranger, Jellison announced in October 2023 that a ninth Baumeister victim had been identified: Allen Livingston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharon Livingston finally received some form of closure. She died in November 2024. It made me happy to be able to do this for my aunt," Pranger, 34, said. Im the one who got the ball rolling to bring her son home after 30 years and I felt privileged." After Allen was identified I was so excited and then after the fact I asked myself, `Now what? I got answers, but what about all the other families? Pranger added. The other victims Jellison said about 40 DNA samples have been submitted by people who believe a missing male relative may have been killed by Baumeister. He said those are entered into the FBIs Combined DNA Index System, or CODIS, but are used solely for identifying missing people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coroner and his partners hope to get more DNA samples from relatives of men from across the U.S. who vanished between the mid-1980s and mid-1990s. They noted the men may have been traveling and stopped in Indianapolis to visit friends or sample its nightlife. To date, scientists have extracted eight unique DNA profiles all male from more than 70 of the 100 bones that were sent to the Indiana State Police Laboratory by Dr. Krista Latham, the Human Identification Center's director. One matched DNA samples provided by Livingstons mother and sister. Four matched four of the eight men first identified in the 1990s: Jeffrey Jones, Manuel Resendez, Johnny Bayer and Richard Hamilton. The three other DNA profiles remain unidentified and two are still undergoing testing. Those three have boosted Baumeisters presumed victims to 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What's next? Jellison and his partners say their identification effort could take several more years to complete. Most of the bones were crushed and burned, reducing their potential to yield usable DNA. Latham, a professor of biology and anthropology, said bone fragments deemed in poor shape are being held back from the destructive testing process in hope that future DNA technologies can unlock their secrets. She noted some of the men may have been estranged from relatives or ostracized because of their sexuality. No one may have noticed when they vanished. These are individuals who were marginalized in life. And we just need to make sure that thats not continuing in death as well, Latham said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the ongoing work, Jellison has obtained DNA reference samples from relatives of seven of the eight men originally identified in the 1990s. The eighth man, Steven Hale, was adopted and efforts to locate biological relatives have thus far failed, the coroner said. Relatives of missing men who want to provide family DNA reference samples for the effort to identify remains can contact the Indiana State Police missing persons hotline at 833-466-2653 or the Hamilton County Coroners Office at 317-770-4415. Honoring the victims As remains are identified, piece by piece, families can opt to have them cremated and interred at a memorial dedicated in August in Westfield. It includes a plaque with the names of the nine identified victims, with room for more names. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Linda Znachko, whose nonprofit Indianapolis-based ministry He Knows Your Name, paid for the monument, said at the memorial's dedication that the identification campaign "will bring honor to those who lost their lives at the Fox Hollow tragedy. Remains belonging to Livingston and Jeffrey Jones were added to the memorial's ossuary and white doves were released during the dedication. Livingstons younger sister, Shannon Doughty, attended with several relatives, including Pranger. She said it was a relief finally knowing what happened to her brother, despite his tragic end. At least you know, said Doughty, 46. The fear of the unknown is the worst right? So just knowing, its a multitude of emotions. You wanted to know but you didnt want to know. But you needed to know. People who came to the Carter Center to pay their respects to the former president shared heartwarming stories of how he went overboard to make them feel special. Channel 2s Tom Jones spoke to Evelyn Smith from Stone Mountain. She brought her nephew to see the 39th president lying in repose. He needs to see a part of history, Smith said. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Its not the first time her nephew, Maqari Rivers, has been in Jimmy Carters presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith showed Jones a picture the former president took with her, her nephew and students she brought to his church years ago. And he came down out of the pulpit and sat with my students and taught them Sunday school, she told Channel 2 Action News. TRENDING STORIES: Rivers remembers it well. I just remember shaking his hand. He said its something he will never forget. To meet a president and for him to pass away and I get to honor his legacy. Its just like I said, a blessing. Channel 2 Action News saw a steady stream of people stopping by to pay their respects to the only president from Georgia. They took pictures and some placed flowers at the Carter Center Presidential sign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barbara Ertzberger said she admired Carter as a person more than as a president. Ive read several of his books. Hes a good author. He was a very good man, she said. Cindi Brooks got emotional saying her last goodbyes. He was just such a wonderful man. And his post-presidency was just so incredible, Smith said. So Im really glad I came. Evelyn Smith felt the same way. She showed Jones a picture of Carter she says he signed for her. Smith said Carter was so gracious to her and her students when he taught them at Sunday school. I never will forget that because he did not have to do that, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People also shared stories of visiting Carters farm, or his church. They said he was more like a neighbor next door than a former president. Thats what they admired about him. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CHEYENNE In 1987, the Wyoming State Capitol Building and Grounds was recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of Interior, making it one of 35 state Capitols to receive this recognition. In a Monday news release, the Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office announced that the Capitols updated designation, which was approved on Sept. 2, affirms the sites exceptional value to Wyoming residents and all Americans. Every National Historic Landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which makes it eligible for federal safeguards and benefits under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, according to the states Historic Preservation Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recognition of the Wyoming State Capitol Building as a National Historic Landmark is a testament to our rich heritage and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our history for future generations, said Wyoming State Historic Preservation Office Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Beadles in the release. Our dedication to preserving the historic sites of Wyoming honors the stories and values they embody. Wyoming led the nation as the first state to grant women the right to vote in 1869 and was also the first state to elect a female governor in 1924. In the underground corridor connecting the state Capitol and Herschler Building is a bronze statue of Esther Hobart Morris, the nations first female justice of the peace, who helped lead the fight for womens suffrage in the Equality State. Former Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers wrote a letter of support to the National Park Service last year to update the Wyoming Capitols historic landmark status. The restored Capitol and Wyomings role in womens suffrage is a source of pride for the people of Wyoming, Driskill and Sommers wrote. And that is why we wholeheartedly endorse its updated designation to continue its proud history as a National Historic Landmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Capitol is more than 130 years old and underwent a major, $317 million renovation construction project from 2016 to 2019. The project aimed to replace outdated building systems, add critical safety infrastructure and address public space needs, as well as restore historic building features, according to the Wyoming Capitol Square Project website. The restoration of the Peoples House ensured Wyomings future generations are exposed to the rich history contained in the Capitol, Gov. Mark Gordon said in the news release. This honor reflects the pride Wyomings people have for our history and the collaborative work that went into preserving it. Throughout the renovation, construction workers discovered original artwork as they peeled back the plaster walls throughout the building. The original walls were found to be decorated in a French style art called trompe loeil, which means to deceive the eye. After this discovery, a decision was made to decorate the walls with a similar art style and color scheme. With major restoration projects out of the way, the Wyoming Legislature has committed to continue making small improvements within the three-story building and its underground corridor, formally known as the Capitol Extension, which connects it to the Herschler Building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Bill Landen, R-Casper, has chaired the Legislatures Capitol Interpretive Exhibits and Wayfinding Subcommittee since 2021. This subcommittee of the State Land Board made up of the states top five elected officials was tasked with finishing up the Capitol Square and pushed through different projects to update the Capitols interior. New golden signage posted on the walls and windows, the rearrangement of the bronze statues of Morris and Chief Washakie in the Capitol Extension, and interactive screens displaying maps and descriptions throughout the building are just a few projects accomplished by the subcommittee. Rotating gallery exhibits, a new wildlife auditorium and a renovated media room are a few upcoming projects that will be tackled next, Landen said. As the Legislature gets ready to convene next week for the 68th Wyoming Legislatures general session, dozens of visitors, lobbyists and lawmakers will walk through the Capitols hallways for the next couple of months. Landen said he has often run into visitors who stopped by the Capitol because of its National Historic Landmark status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reason, of course, is suffrage. Thats one of the big feathers in Wyomings bonnet, Landen said. The fact that we were the first government in the world to grant women the right to vote, thats a big deal. And so quite a bit of our effort on that historical exhibit committee has been to not just underscore that, but take pride in the suffrage moniker that Wyoming has. Although hes served in the Wyoming Legislature since 2007, Landen has never tired of marveling at the beauty of the Capitols marble hallways, red carpeted stairs, and decorative statues and paintings. Every time I walk up those steps, I just never get over the privilege and the honor it is to be able to serve in that building, Landen said. A lot of great things have happened there, and Im so glad that, a decade ago, we had the vision and the fortitude to get that building taken care of and renovated and passed on to the next five or six generations. DENVER (KDVR) U.S. Congressman for Colorado Jason Crow says Jan. 6, 2021, is a day that will forever be etched into his memory. On Monday, the Democratic legislator, who represents Colorados 6th District, took time to examine the differences between Congress certifying the election four years ago and the present day. In 2021, Congress convened to certify the U.S. election results that named President Joe Biden to the presidency. Trump considers pardons for Capitol attack Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That day, thousands of rioters attacked the U.S. Capitol following the Stop the Steal rally, wherein supporters of President-elect Donald Trump alleged that he had rightfully won the 2020 election. Trump also pressed the narrative, saying repeatedly before the march in various places including social media that his supporters would not stand for a Rigged and Corrupt Election. Trump once faced federal charges for inciting the riot, but those were dropped. He has pledged to pardon anyone who pleaded guilty or was convicted of crimes related to the Jan. 6 events. The rioters on Jan. 6 stormed the U.S. Capitol, forcing their way past Capitol Police and prompting Congress to be evacuated. More than 140 officers were hurt in the incident, and one died the next day. Following the incident, four others later died by suicide. For Crow, the peaceful interactions of Congress on Monday brought back memories of what happened the last time a presidential election was certified. He recounted to FOX31s Matt Mauro the experience of being trapped in the House gallery with about three dozen other members of the U.S. House of Representatives and telling other members of Congress to take off their pins that signified their member status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told Mauro that he used his training as a U.S. Army Ranger to assess building barricades and potential escape routes. So the lesson to be learned is that is we can never take anything for granted, we must always re-earn our democracy, we must always work for our democracy because it doesnt perpetuate itself, Crow told FOX31 on Monday. Former, acting US attorneys for Colorado will lead Denver District Attorneys Office Crow also reintroduced the Capitol Remembrance Act on Monday, legislation that would erect a memorial to honor the law enforcement officers killed and injured while protecting the U.S. Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today marks four years since violent insurrectionists stormed the Capitol in a failed attempt to overturn a free and fair election. On that terrible day, hundreds of law enforcement officers bravely defended the Capitol. 150 officers were assaulted and injured, and five officers died after the attack. Our country owes these heroes a debt of gratitude, said Crow in an announcement of the acts reintroduction. I will always support our law enforcement and fight to protect free and fair elections and the peaceful transfer of power. The act would install an education exhibit in the U.S. Capitol that would honor the law enforcement officers impacted, those injured in the attack and Capitol staff who helped restore the complex after the attack, as well as include images of the attack and 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 FOX31 Denver. Jan. 6U.S. Rep. Keith Self, 3rd Congressional District of Texas, on Monday introduced a bill aimed at relocating the headquarters of U.S. Customs and Border Protection from Washington, D.C. to Texas. The move, according to Self, would bring the agency closer to the southern border where the majority of its operations occur and help address what he called an ongoing immigration crisis. Currently, the CBP headquarters is based approximately 2,000 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. Self argues that decentralizing the agency's operations would reduce bureaucratic overhead and operating costs, while allowing CBP to respond more effectively to the challenges at the border. "For four years, the Biden administration opened our southern border to more than 10 million illegal aliens, including murderers, gang members and suspected terrorists forcing Texas to be their gateway," Self said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Self said moving the headquarters to Texas is a practical step that will allow border patrol agents to be on the ground at the critical point of the crisis. Critics of the plan argue that such a move could lead to unnecessary disruptions, while others contend the focus should be on broader reforms to immigration law rather than logistical changes. However, Self said proponents of the bill say relocation would represent a practical step toward ensuring that CBP's operations are "better aligned with the realities on the ground." Jan. 6Starting this week, Maine car dealers must notify buyers that they have a right to access mechanical data that manufacturers gather on their vehicles through wireless technology, but whether or exactly how that information will be provided remains to be seen. Maine's Automotive Right to Repair Law took effect Sunday, making it possible for owners to seek information gathered by a vehicle's telematics system and to authorize an independent repair shop to use the information. The Maine Attorney General's Office is still consulting with a working group of industry representatives to figure out how the law will be enforced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of sale, dealers must present and ask buyers to sign a written notice of the law, which Maine voters approved by an 84% margin in November 2023. The AG's office provided the notice and an explanation of the law to dealers. Dealers are prepared to comply with the disclosure requirement, but it's unclear how manufacturers will respond to individual requests for or access to information gathered by telematics systems. "We're waiting like everyone else to see how it works," said Jack Quirk, president and CEO of Quirk Auto Group, whose dealerships across Maine represent 13 manufacturers. Quirk is the dealer representative on the AG's working group. Missing from the notice is the law's stipulation that any vehicle owner or authorized repair shop that is denied access to telematics data may file a civil lawsuit seeking damages of at least $10,000. The law doesn't specify who would pay the penalty, but Quirk guessed it would be manufacturers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's something the manufacturers have to provide," Quirk said Monday. "This is not our fight. We're independent repair (shops)." The law applies to new and used cars, trucks and heavy-duty vehicles sold in Maine starting Jan. 5. It doesn't apply to vehicles purchased out of state or online. Chief Deputy Attorney General Christopher Taub and Elizabeth Frazier, an attorney with Pierce Atwood who represents manufacturers on the working group, didn't respond to requests for interviews on Monday. The working group's next meeting is Jan. 17, when it's expected to finalize recommendations in a draft report to the Legislature that's due Feb. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Maine Right to Repair Coalition led the ballot initiative to make all vehicle repair and maintenance data accessible to car owners and authorized repair shops. As vehicles have grown more computerized, supporters say some data is being withheld from consumers, independent operators and after-market companies. Car manufacturers maintain that they offer open data access to all repair shops, but supporters of the new law say it's only accessible through cost-prohibitive equipment and repair programs that are unique to each car maker. "This is a big win for consumers and small businesses as folks in Maine will now be the gatekeepers of their own information, allowing them to shop around and choose where they get their cars repaired," Tommy Hickey, director of Maine Right to Repair. said Monday. A vehicle's telematics system "collects information generated by the operation of the vehicle and transmits that information using wireless communications to a remote receiving point where the information is stored or used," according to the buyer's notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The working group made up of independent repair operators, dealers, manufacturers and other industry representatives was set up to recommend the makeup of an independent rule-making and enforcement authority that would implement and enforce the law. The group has already agreed to recommend doing away with unclear language that called for the enforcement authority to oversee an online portal where all manufacturers would share information with buyers and authorized repair shops. Concerns about maintaining buyer privacy and cybersecurity on a state-sponsored site led the working group to conclude unanimously that "all vehicle data should be directly accessible (but) remain under the control of vehicle manufacturers, with the manufacturers then making the data available to owners and (upon authorization by owners) independent repair facilities." The working group's concerns mirrored those of the Legislature's Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business Committee, which voted 7-1 last February to scrap that part of the law. The bill later died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time, some lawmakers and right-to-repair advocates who supported a standardized, state-sponsored platform for the repair data, said such an amendment would go against the will of voters. Hickey, director of Maine Right to Repair, said have a state-sponsored portal was never the intent of the legislation. Hickey noted that Massachusetts, the only other state to have passed a right-to-repair law, doesn't have a standardized platform. That law has yet to take effect because car makers have challenged it in federal court. Copy the Story Link Jan. 6The candidates being considered for a nomination to be Spokane County's next treasurer include a pair of treasurer's office employees, some previous contenders for public office and a few political newcomers. The Spokane County Republican Party released its list of eight candidates interested in serving as the next treasurer through the end of 2026, after Rep. Michael Baumgartner vacated the role earlier this month for his newly elected position in Congress. Those interested in replacing Baumgartner include Spokane hairstylist Patti Usselman, treasurer's office employee John Christina, commercial real estate broker Matt Hawkins, Army veteran Robert Miceli, tech businessman Victor Yefremov, former Spokane Public Schools teacher Natalie Poulson, Spokane Valley businessman Mike Kelly and Chief Deputy Treasurer and state Rep. Mike Volz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the affiliated party of the outgoing treasurer, the Spokane County GOP is responsible for providing three nominations to the Spokane County Commission to consider to serve the remainder of Baumgartner's term. The party plans to meet and select nominees Jan. 18. Rob Linebarger, chair of the county GOP, said the list does not preclude others from being named as one of three finalists. Instead, it represents those who went through the party's endorsement vetting process. Any precinct committee officer could nominate someone not on the list for consideration at the Jan. 18 meeting, where candidates will have five minutes to speak, the nomination PCO has two minutes to speak and the PCO who seconds the motion will have one minute to speak. Those who went through the party's vetting process submitted biographies and completed questionnaires that are available to view on the party's website. They also participated in interviews with the party's candidate committee, and each person was ranked based on a weighted score given to their questionnaire responses and interview performance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We evaluate not only how they present themselves, but how they align with our party platform and how strong their positions are when they articulate them, things like that," Linebarger said. "It doesn't matter if you're running for cemetery district commissioner or governor, they all do the same questionnaire." Linebarger said how the candidates stacked up in the rankings will be made public at a later time. Earlier this year, the party's scores for the several Republican candidates vying to replace former Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers were initially miscalculated, and the error was only caught after the scores were published online. The materials published at the time also included critiques of the candidates that later had to be walked back. "We don't want to bias the process too heavily," Linebarger said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missing from the list is Matt Hanson, who Baumgartner endorsed to replace him following the November election. Hanson, the owner of Dye Seed, a seed processor headquartered in Pomeroy, served as co-chair of Baumgartner's congressional campaign's finance committee before receiving the nod from the congressman. Linebarger said Hanson started the vetting process but retracted his name from consideration shortly after it got underway. "I gave it a second, third and fourth look and determined I just have too much work coming up this year," Hanson said. Spokane County residents may be familiar with Volz for his seven years representing the state's 6th Legislative District, which includes Airway Heights and much of the West Plains, areas north of Spokane and portions of the city's north side, including Indian Trail and Hillyard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voters re-elected Volz to serve a fifth term in Olympia in November, and he has served as the second-in-command for the treasurer's office since 2011. Hawkins, Poulson and Kelly have all launched unsuccessful political campaigns in recent elections. Last year, Hawkins lost a bid for state auditor, and Kelly failed to win a state Senate seat representing the Valley, while Poulson unsuccessfully challenged Spokane state Rep. Tim Ormsby in 2022. Poulson was an employee of Spokane Public Schools for 18 years before being fired for refusing to wear a mask on school grounds amid COVID-19 masking mandates. In 2021, she and several other staff members at Finch Elementary School, including the principal, were escorted from the building after months of refusing to comply with the mandate for public employees. During her legislative run the next year, Poulson declined to answer questions related to abortion, saying it was not an issue legislators in Washington needed to speak on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the recent GOP questionnaire, she disclosed her position on the issue as pro-life. The treasurer has no policy -making powers but Linebarger said the abortion-stance question is asked to see how the candidates align with the party platform. It is always included regardless of the elected position, he said. Kelly attempted to replace outgoing state Sen. Mike Padden this past election cycle, but failed to make it out of a crowded primary after details of his stint in federal prison surfaced. Kelly disclosed in interviews, candidate forums and campaign events a brush with the law, but provided few details. Court records show a grand jury indicted Kelly in October 1989 on multiple drug and firearm charges: attempted possession of cocaine, conspiring to possess cocaine with the intent to distribute and three counts of carrying firearms in relation to a drug trafficking crime. All stemmed from an evening in June 1989 when he and an associate purchased a kilogram of cocaine from an undercover Portland Police Bureau officer for $75,000. Kelly, who is CFO for KT Contracting Company in Spokane Valley and owns several real estate holdings and management companies, wrote in his questionnaire that he has had "no criminal charges or activity in the subsequent 35 plus years." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawkins said in his questionnaire responses that he has more than 30 years of experience in the private sector managing information systems, financials and business operations. He works as an associate broker at the commercial real estate firm Kiemle Hagood, and believes the treasurer should be able to weigh in on whether local taxes "are justified," he wrote. Usselman is an active GOP precinct committee officer, and owns and operates the salon Patti Usselman Hair.STYLE out of her home on the West Plains. She has nearly 40 years of management, consulting and entrepreneurship experience, including her 14 years as a salon owner, according to her questionnaire. Christina, an Air Force veteran, worked in the treasurer's office from 2015 to 2020 as a finance deputy focused on investments. He said in his questionnaire responses that he was recently hired back by the county in the same capacity, and that his experience in the office and private sector have prepared him for the job. Christina has been a vocal supporter of the creation of a 51st state called Liberty, a proposed Christian conservative state that would encompass most of Eastern Washington and North Idaho that was championed by controversial former state Rep. Matt Shea. In 2019, Christina helped organize a fundraising gala for the effort that featured Shea as a speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reporting by the Guardian that same year revealed Christina was a member of a private chat group with Shea and other figures tied to the far-right and Christian nationalist movement, where they would discuss violence against perceived adversaries, support for white nationalism and their belief that civil war is imminent, and request surveillance of political opponents. The group chat included former Spokane Valley councilmen Mike Munch and Caleb Collier, Idaho Rep. Heather Scott and Anne Byrd, who is married to Barry Byrd, pastor of Marble Community Fellowship in northern Stevens County. In 1988, Barry Byrd helped pen a Christian Identity manifesto that referred to Jews as "anti-Christs" and condemned interracial marriage, though the Byrds have since tried to distance themselves from racist ideology, as reported by The Spokesman-Review. Miceli spent 32 years in active duty serving in various roles, including combat arms, combat service support and acquisitions, he detailed in his responses. He holds two master's degrees in national resource strategy and management, from National Defense University and Webster University. He is a University High School graduate and hopes to identify efficiencies within the office's processes if selected, he said. Yefremov identified himself as a first-generation Russian immigrant with experience building multiple successful businesses. He is the founder and president of Royal Enterprise, a trucking company in Airway Heights, and previously founded and ran an online payment processing company and a company that developed financial management tools for businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Spokane resident since 1998, Yefremov said he hopes to help restore Spokane to the "conservative stronghold" it was when he arrived. Following the nomination of three candidates at the Jan. 18 meeting, the Spokane County Commission must then vote to appoint one of those three within 60 days of when the vacancy was created. If the board fails to do so, Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson would make the appointment. The treasurer's seat will be back up for election next year. "It's a good process," Linebarger said. "And these three that we do nominate, we think will be high quality." Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike last year while inside the militant groups 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 Hezbollahs 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. KAREEM CHEHAYEB, BEIRUT, MDT/AP Union dockworkers and employers have taken the first steps toward reaching an agreement on the use of container-handling automation that would avoid a crippling strike at U.S. Eastern Seaboard and Gulf coast ports. Leaders of the International Longshoremens Association and United States Maritime Alliance met in private Sunday in an effort to find a way forward on the issue of automation, which has been a major obstacle to a new labor agreement covering tens of thousands of longshore workers. The deal to expand port automation technology would add also more union jobs, but terminal operators are reportedly balking at the added costs after agreeing to a 62% pay hike for workers following a three-day strike by the ILA in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another work stoppage could shut down container operations at dozens of ports from Texas to New England if agreement on a new pact isnt reached before an extension of the current contract ends Jan. 15. Formal bargaining on a new six-year master contract was expected to resume Tuesday. President-elect Donald Trump in December backed the unions anti-automation stance. An ILA spokesman said the union had no comment. The USMX did not immediately respond to messages. Details of the meeting were first reported by CNBC. This is a developing story and will be updated. Find more articles by Stuart Chirls here. Related coverage: Labor strife, tariffs to shadow ocean shipping in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maersk urges container pickup ahead of potential port strike Sources: ILA, USMX to restart contract talks ahead of deadline for possible port strike The post Report: Ahead of strike threat, ILA, USMX met on port automation appeared first on FreightWaves. EL PASO, Texas (KTEP) An independent report commissioned by El Paso County comparing law enforcement pursuit policies found the Texas Department of Public Safetys guidelines inadequate for failing to meet local as well as national standards. The states pursuit policy fails to prioritize public safety or seek alternatives to dangerous high-speed chases by troopers, according to the County report presented to the El Paso County Commissioners court Monday, Jan. 6. According to the report, the policy inappropriately puts the decision to initiate high-speed pursuits on individual troopers. The report comes on the heels of an investigation by KTEP News on the rise of dangerous DPS pursuits on highways, roads and in neighborhoods in El Paso, all part of Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts border enforcement initiative Operation Lone Star. Texas state troopers pursue drivers suspected of transporting undocumented immigrants at speeds often reaching more than 100 miles an hour. Texas DPS has repeatedly declined requests for an interview about the states pursuit policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KTEP News reporting the past two years involved visiting numerous collision sites after high speed chases, data and mapping of the areas where the pursuits happened most often, interviews with witnesses and bystanders and an El Paso family caught up in the DPS border enforcement crackdown by mistake, forced off the road and held at gunpoint in 2023. KTEP also interviewed one of the young drivers involved in a high speed chase with DPS now serving a five-year sentence for human smuggling after a pursuit ended with injuries to several of the migrants in his vehicle. El Paso County commissioned their report as pursuits ending in injuries continued to rise in 2024. Former staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union Shaw Drake prepared the report that includes a comparison of pursuit policies by other area law enforcement, including the El Paso Police Department, El Paso County Sheriffs Office, Border Patrol and the guidelines provided by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). The DPS policy provides a wide range of flexibility to DPS officers to pursue vehicles on the back of very little information and does not put clear restrictions in place, Drake told KTEP News. (DPS policy) has general language around protecting public safety but does not specifically limit pursuits in key ways that other policies do. The El Paso County Attorneys Office may provide commissioners with actions they could take including submitting a complaint to the U.S. Department of Justice. The Commissioners Court may also take the issue to El Pasos state delegation to advocate for changes in the DPS pursuit policy ahead of the Texas Legislative session which begins later this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a KTEP News analysis of DPS data, speed during a pursuit can range from 60 to 133 miles an hour. Between Jan. 1 and Sept. 22 there were 258 pursuits with 24% ending in a collision. Some caused death and injuries to people in the pursued vehicle as well as bystanders. Other policies limit pursuits as it relates to speed, as it relates to location of the pursuit, whether the pursuit is taking place in a crowded public area or passed a sensitive location like a school, Drake said. Almost all the other policies also restrict what information is required to justify beginning a pursuit, including restrictions that essentially say a pursuit should not be undertaken unless there is information that the person that is fleeing is wanted for some sort of violent crime. More than 80 percent of pursuits were initiated on a suspicion of a traffic violation, according to DPS data. PERF guidelines recommended officers only pursue suspects when a violent crime is committed and the suspect poses an imminent threat to commit another violent crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Border Patrol changed its pursuit policy acknowledging vehicle pursuits do inherently pose risk to members of the public, officers and agents and those in a vehicle being pursued who may not be willing participants. And, in El Paso, EPPD changed its policy in 2021 to require officers to demonstrate a clear and immediate threat to the public to justify engaging in a high-speed pursuit. During a chase, state troopers are required to inform a supervisor so they may review and evaluate each pursuit, according to a copy of the DPS manual. But the decision of when to abandon a chase can only be made by the officer involved, the manual states. DPS requires troopers consider several factors before chasing a suspect including population density of an area, road conditions, weather and visibility. They are also required to consider the type of crime and whether a suspect can be arrested later. DPS dashcam video obtained by KTEP News shows several of the dangerous high speed chases including those ending in a collision. KTEP News has reported on several pursuits involving young drivers behind the wheel. In October 2024 while fleeing DPS 17-year-old Joseph Maldonado blew through a red light with six migrants in a car and hit a Toyota Corolla killing Wendy Rodriguez who was driving to work according to an arrest document. El Paso Countys analysis included data from January 2018 to June 2024 of over 12,000 pursuits across the State of Texas. The countys review found that a majority of the time traffic violations were the stated reason for initiating a pursuit according to a sample of DPS chases. In more than half of the El Paso cases, 54% of suspects were drivers under the age of 25, with 11 percent under 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are very young folks involved in these pursuits, Assistant County Attorney Bernardo Cruz said. If you know that the vast majority are very young drivers that should be something that the law enforcement officer should at least have as part of their internal decision making. Law enforcement agencies across the country have moved toward limiting high-speed chases, Drake said. It is not worth the risk to officer safety, the risk to public safety, or the risk to the safety of the individuals fleeing to conduct a pursuit on the backs of suspicion of a misdemeanor crime, he 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 KTSM 9 News. Rep. Justin Sparks, a Wildwood Republican, speaks in March 2023 during Missouri House debate (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications). As a new legislator in 2023, state Rep. Justin Sparks became the leading advocate for a proposal to create a child care facility serving employees of the St. Louis County Police Department. A few months after lawmakers approved spending $6 million from federal COVID relief funds to create the center, Sparks took a job with the organization in charge of the project, the National Law Enforcement Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, the foundation, created in 2022, has used $3.7 million of the funding. Sparks, a Republican from Wildwood who resigned from a job with the county police in 2022 to seek office, has recently faced some criticism over the earmark. There were no discussions prior to obtaining the appropriation about the possibility of a job, he said in an interview with The Independent. If it was true, it would be inappropriate, unethical, maybe even illegal, Sparks said. Instead, he said, he was approached because of his advocacy for the project and knowledge of the department. They knew I was going to be looking for work, Sparks said. And so theyre like, Hey, were going to need somebody to help with the project. Would this be something youd be interested in? I said, of course, I need a job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Law Enforcement Center did not respond to messages seeking comment on Sparks employment. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US The new job is listed on his 2023 personal financial disclosure, filed with the Missouri Ethics Commission, even though he says he received no pay that year. I received no compensation until 2024, he said. Sparks on Wednesday will attempt to do something that has not happened since 1996 block the majority partys nominee from winning election as speaker of the Missouri House. He is challenging state Rep. Jon Patterson of Lees Summit, the Republican floor leader for the last two years, by launching attacks on Pattersons fidelity to GOP priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The campaign is raising Sparks statewide profile and putting his activities as a lawmaker under greater scrutiny. Obtaining the appropriation is one of his signature achievements, he said. Sparks said critics of his campaign for speaker are trying to make people believe he was already in line for the job when the appropriation was added to the budget. Because its politics, he said, people cant believe that you would do something without receiving compensation or some kind of benefit to yourself. The appropriation In February 2023, Sparks sent an email to Joe Engler, chief of staff to House Budget Chairman Cody Smith, explaining what he wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am asking for six million to be privately matched for a new child care program for St. Louis County Police employees, Sparks wrote in the email obtained by The Independent through Missouris Sunshine Law. These funds will provide for the purchase of an existing structure/facility and the first three years of service. The intent is for this to serve as a pilot program for statewide distribution after successful implementation. During budget deliberations in the Missouri House, the chairman holds the key position. After hearings on the governors recommendations, the chairman brings substitute bills to the committee, which are then debated and amended on their way to the floor. Smith did not include Sparks request in his substitute for the bill that allocates funds to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, which distributes child care funds. But Sparks found an ally, Republican state Rep. Bill Owen of Springfield, who asked for $3 million. What were doing here again is matching monies that are going to be forthcoming from the St Louis police officers foundation to help construct a child care center for first responders, and thats the focus of it is for first responders, Owen said during the March 2023 budget hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ranking Democrat on the committee at the time, state Rep. Peter Merideth of St. Louis, supported the amendment. If we find this model works better for them and maybe for other entities as well, we could keep funding this and not just with one-time money, Merideth said. The committee approved the $3 million amendment, using money from Missouris allocation of child care funding in the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act. The appropriation included a requirement for a 50% local match. Another $3 million was added in the Senate, providing the full $6 million initially sought by Sparks. The money was reappropriated for this years budget, and $3.7 million has been spent so far. Rep. Bill Owen, R-Springfield, speaks in the Missouri House during the 2021 legislative session (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications). Expanding the availability of child care has found bipartisan support in recent years. A study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation found in 2021 that accessibility, quality and cost-related hurdles to child care force many Missouri parents out of the workforce or cause disruptions to their work, costing the state more than $1 billion annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation in 2023 by The Independent and MuckRock found that about half of Missouri children live in locations classified as child care deserts, where there are more than three children ages 5 and under for every licensed child care slot. And this year, for the third year in a row, supporters plan to push a bill providing tax credits to expand child care centers and encourage businesses to provide on-site child care. It has failed in the past two years due to opposition from members of the Missouri Freedom Caucus. The email to Engler didnt mention the National Law Enforcement Foundation, and Owen doesnt remember Sparks stating that organization would be in charge of the project. Everything that Im recalling right now, it was all about discussions with the St Louis Police Foundation, Owen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal made sense, Owen said, because it would support police officers, who often work unusual hours or longer-than-normal shifts. If you think about the people in that line of work, they never know when theyre going to get called in, Owen said. They dont know when they might have to go way past their shift because of some issue that they are handling. Established in 2007, the St. Louis Police Foundation has a Board of Directors that includes leaders of the largest corporations in St. Louis. The foundation played no role in securing the appropriation, Michelle Craig, executive director of the St. Louis Police Foundation, said in an interview. We were not involved with the state appropriation portion of it, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Owen said he learned later in 2023 that Sparks had been hired by the National Law Enforcement Foundation. Sparks told him the foundation wanted to use Missouri appropriation as a model for other states and he was going to help in that effort. If Sparks knew he could land a job if he obtained the appropriation that would be a real conflict of interest, Owen said. And I would have told him that, but he never, at any point in time, said that. I dont even think he ever even talked about them. The project The appropriation language directed that the money was to be used for start-up costs related to a new child care programassociated with a not-for-profit law enforcement organization, with geographic identifiers that placed it in St. Louis County. Sparks said his role is overseeing the implementation of the project. He would not state the exact location of the space being renovated for the child care center, citing police security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I go to all the meetings with St Louis County Police and help facilitate the different rules, stipulations and things from the law enforcement perspective, Sparks said. The National Law Enforcement Foundation has contracted with KinderCare, a national child care provider, to prepare the space and manage operations once it opens, he said. We will get the best employees and have a very secure facility that will be safe no matter what, Sparks said. It will be the safest childcare facility that you can ever imagine. The St. Louis Police Foundation was approached after the appropriation was secured to raise the matching funds, Craig said. We are involved in the project, and were excited about the project and our role in it, but its simply to help them close the private matching funding gap, she said. The project fits the foundations purpose, which is to provide support for the St. Louis county and city police departments, she said. The foundation tries to provide equipment, training and other support to help officers do their job that cant be funded through the public budget. We provide certain protective equipment, technology, specialized training thats not part of their curriculums, Craig said. Weve bought dogs, weve bought horses, things that help the police officers police effectively, more efficiently and more safely. Now that he is working for the National Law Enforcement Foundation, Sparks said he will refrain from seeking new funding for its projects or voting on bills that include them. I will abstain, he said, from any votes or any activity regarding attempts to get any kind of financial benefit for the foundation. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE GOP Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia posed with House Speaker Mike Johnson for a photograph to mark the start of the next Congress and left with a guarantee that his investigation into the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol will be formalized as a new committee. The move solidifies the Republican Partys effort to rewrite the narrative surrounding January 6 as a permanent fixture of its investigative agenda. Its part of a broader effort from Republicans to continue several GOP-led investigations from the previous Congress now that the party will control both chambers of Capitol Hill and the White House. The details of the new committee are still being worked out, Loudermilk told CNN, but one of the options would be to formulate it in a way that gives Johnson more control over who is appointed to the panel, known as a select committee, and the direction of its work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Creating a new committee to elevate Loudermilks work, which included a report recommending the FBI prosecute GOP former Rep. Liz Cheney, keeps the Republican efforts to prevent President-elect Donald Trump from bearing any responsibility for the violence on January 6, front and center. It was so singularly focused that basically Trump created this entire problem, Loudermilk said of the former January 6 select committee that Cheney helped lead. When in reality, it was a multitude of failures at different levels. But even Loudermilk said he understands that referencing January 6 in the new panels title could send the wrong message. In one sense, its kind of a trigger for people. In another, it is even restrictive because January 6 isnt the only security issue, Loudermilk told CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson has publicly vowed that the new effort to investigate January 6 will be fully funded. Continuing its investigation into the previous January 6 select committee which featured Cheney as a vice chair and had another Republican member and broader security response to the Capitol attack is not the only way Republicans plan to use their new majority to carry over their previous investigations that remain politically charged. Republicans re-issued subpoenas related to special counsel Robert Hurs investigation into President Joe Bidens handling of classified documents and two Justice Department tax investigators who worked on the Hunter Biden case on Monday, two sources familiar with the matter told CNN. Those subpoenas would renew pursuits by the previous Congress that have been fought over in court and not resolved for months. The restated subpoenas will be received by Trumps Justice Department, which is expected to be much friendlier to congressional Republicans seeking documents and information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One subpoena relates to Hurs audio recordings of interviews between President Biden and his ghostwriter Mark Zwonitzer, when they talked about classified information for a memoir after his term as vice president. There are a few pursuits of this in court, including from the right-wing Heritage Foundation and from media outlets including CNN seeking the release of these and other recordings obtained by Hur. The DOJ has repeatedly argued to judges these types of audio recordings shouldnt be made public. The subpoenas to the DOJ tax investigators, Mark Daly and Jack Morgan, are renewals from prior House Judiciary Committee subpoenas. The testimony wasnt given, and the House sued the DOJ for not letting the men show up for depositions about Hunter Biden investigation. The court case here is on hold and before Judge Ana Reyes in the DC District Court. An attorney for Daly declined to comment on Tuesday, and Morgans attorney didnt respond to a request for comment. And even before the start of their new majority, House Republicans signaled they may pursue investigations targeting special counsel Jack Smith over his two criminal cases against Trump and special counsel David Weiss over his handling of the tax and gun prosecutions of Hunter Biden, as their efforts to target the prosecutors went largely unanswered while the criminal probes were ongoing. CNNs Katelyn Polantz contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Photo by Aristide Economopoulos/for NJ Monitor Two Republican state representatives have accused the Arizona Department of Health Services of coming after the Second Amendment rights of parents after the agency concluded in its annual Child Fatality Review Team report that there would be fewer children killed by guns in Arizona if there were fewer firearms in homes. We are appalled that the (Child Fatality Review Team) speaking on behalf of the Arizona Department of Health Services, is actually advocating for stripping Arizonans of their Second Amendment rights in their own homes, Reps. Quang Nguyen and Selina Bliss wrote in a letter to Jennie Cunico, head of Arizona DHS, on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the report, released in November, doesnt actually advocate for that. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Its firearm death prevention recommendations include removing firearms from households with children, proper storage of all firearms, implementing initiatives aimed at limiting access to firearms, as well as other prevention strategies. But the review team does not advocate for any policy that would see the government try to forcibly take guns away from anyone. Instead it recommends bolstered gun safety regulations and better education of parents on the dangers of keeping guns in their households, especially when it comes to the risk of adolescent suicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report says that the review team believes that the most effective way to prevent firearm-related deaths in children is to remove all firearms in households with children, but it does not recommend any government action or changes to state law to achieve that. The teams top recommendation for parents, as well as for policymakers and schools, is to increase public awareness that the most effective way to prevent firearm-related deaths in children and adolescents is to remove all firearms from households. DHS did not respond to the Arizona Mirrors request for comment by the deadline for this story. But Nguyen, of Prescott Valley, and Bliss, of Prescott, both interpreted the recommendations in the report as an attack on the constitutional rights of Arizonans to bear arms. Our state should focus on education and safe practices, not on extreme measures that undermine individual liberties, Bliss said in a statement. We stand firm in defending the Second Amendment rights of Arizona families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nguyen and Bliss have led the Arizona House of Representatives Judiciary Committee as chairman and vice chairman for the past two years, and Nguyen is set to again chair the committee when the new legislature convenes later this month. Fueled by his childhood experience fleeing Vietnam just days before the fall of Saigon, Nguyen is a fierce advocate for gun rights and has used his role on the Judiciary Committee to block gun control proposals from being considered by the full House of Representatives. Proposals to strip citizens of their firearms are not only unconstitutional but also lack common sense, Nguyen, who is also a firearms instructor, said in a statement. While the report suggests reasonable safety measures for other risks, such as drowning, the (team) overreaches by advocating for the elimination of firearms entirely from homes with children. The annual report dug into the 853 child deaths that happened in the Grand Canyon State in 2023. The Child Fatality Review Team determined that 49% of those deaths were preventable, and that the second-most common cause of preventable deaths was firearm injuries, behind vehicle crashes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child shooting deaths have increased 171% in the past 10 years, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services, with 68 deaths in 2023, which were all determined to be preventable. Suicides and homicides of children both increased in 2023, with 40 out of 61 child homicides perpetrated with firearms, and 44% of suicides using guns. Since the (team) determined that access to guns was the biggest risk factor for firearm deaths, (the team) believes that the most effective way to prevent firearm-related deaths in children is to remove all firearms in households with children because the presence of firearms in a household increases the risk of suicide among adolescents, the team wrote in the report. While the report says that parents of adolescents, especially those with a history of mental health or substance use issues, should remove all guns from their homes, it suggests any removal should be voluntary not by forcible state action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any attempt to do so would almost certainly require a change to Arizona law, and such a law would never make it through the Republican-controlled state Legislature. Even if it did, it would immediately face constitutional challenges in court. Far from advocating for stripping Second Amendment rights, as the Republicans claimed, the report says that lawmakers should implement policies, programs, and initiatives focused on responsible firearm access and ownership in households with children. Some examples of that include: Requiring mental health screening and gun safety training for firearm purchasers Licensing and tracking firearm ownership Increasing public awareness of reporting stolen firearms and establish penalties for failing to report Increasing funding, access, and use of quality and affordable youth mental health and community intervention programs Providing bullying prevention programming for children and teens Increasing implementation of gang prevention programs for children and teens The team also recommended that all gun owners should practice safe storage of their firearms by keeping guns unloaded and locked in a safe separate from the ammunition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The annual report by the Child Fatality Review Team aims to reduce preventable child fatalities in Arizona through prevention strategies, interdisciplinary training, community-based education, and data-driven recommendations. The recommendations in the report are aimed at aiding legislation and public policy, according to the report. In their letter, Nguyen and Bliss told the Department of Health Services that proposed policy solutions must respect the rights and liberties of citizens. We urge you to direct the (team) to reconsider its unjustified attack on the Second Amendment and amend its Report, they wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The representatives declaration that any government efforts to reduce firearms deaths are tantamount to shredding a constitutional right aligns with those of Republicans across the country who have balked at and shut down efforts to implement gun control measures at the federal and state levels in response to an epidemic of mass shootings over the past 20 years. This isnt the first time that Nguyen and Bliss have teamed up to influence other government entities approaches to gun safety. In November, the Sedona City Council agreed to amend its prohibition of guns on city trails after Bliss and Nguyen notified the council and Attorney General Kris Mayes that the ban violated the Arizona law that allows cities to regulate the discharge of firearms in public parks, but not their possession. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Lawmakers watch as House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield, speaks about immigration and public safety bills during a press conference at the Utah Capitol Building on Monday, Jan. 6, 2024. (Kyle Dunphey/Utah News Dispatch) With the 2025 Utah legislative session set to begin later this month, lawmakers are giving the public a preview into some bills focused on public safety and immigration. From facilitating deportations by changing the states criminal code, to ramping up efforts to stop fentanyl trafficking, lawmakers are looking to make several changes this year in the name of stopping crime and undocumented immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While we are confident the incoming Trump administration will take the southern border much more seriously, we also know what we need to act as state leaders to address the harm caused by the Biden-Harris administrations failure to act, said House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield, during a press conference Monday. The press conference came after new efforts from Utah Gov. Spencer Cox to help President-elect Donald Trump achieve his immigration goals, which include mass deportations and possible changes to immigration law. In November, Cox announced a plan to identify, incarcerate and deport undocumented migrants in Utah who have committed crimes working with the legislature is a priority, Cox said. But the top Democrat in the House, Salt Lake City Rep. Angela Romero, warned that Utah GOP leaders insistence on linking crime and immigration pushes harmful stereotypes. Sometimes public safety and immigration policies overlap. But immigrants in her district are facing increased hostility, she said, and including all immigration bills under the umbrella of public safety fuels that rhetoric. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was a little confused, Romero said. There were some people talking about crime, then there were some people talking about immigration. I think the two dont go hand in hand. There are some things that cross over, but there are things mentioned here that have nothing to do with people that are immigrating to Utah. Not all of the bills that lawmakers talked about on Monday are public, but heres what we know so far: Rep. Candice Pierucci, R-Herriman, wants to increase the criminal penalty for class A misdemeanors by one day, which will expedite deportations for undocumented immigrants who commit crimes. U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement cannot deport someone who has been incarcerated for less than one year Pieruccis bill would increase the maximum penalty from 364 days, to 365 days, overturning a 2019 law that was intentionally designed to protect undocumented people from being deported for misdemeanors. Pierucci is also proposing a bill that would allow schools that are seeing an increase in English Language Learners to access emergency funds, so the school can hire additional teachers. And Pierucci said she wants to increase criminal penalties for human trafficking. Rep. Matthew Gwynn, R-Farr West, has a bill that would make fentanyl trafficking its own criminal offense. Its now the No. 1 cause of drug overdose deaths in the state of Utah, Gwynn said. His bill, HB87, would make fentanyl trafficking a first-degree felony. Current drug trafficking penalties range from a class A misdemeanor to a first-degree felony, depending on the substance. Gwynn also wants to work with the Utah Department of Public Safety to increase the number of drug interdiction units in the state. Rep. Ryan Wilcox, R-Ogden, is proposing enhanced penalties for gang-related crimes, including retail theft and gang recruitment. His bill, HB38, creates new, harsher penalties for adults who force minors to join gangs and commit crimes, while increasing the metric used when determining loss in retail theft. Rep. Colin Jack, R-St. George, wants to enhance penalties for undocumented immigrants who commit a felony offense if theyve already unlawfully reentered the country after being deported. Amid what lawmakers say is an increasing problem, Rep. Matt MacPherson, R-West Valley City, wants unlicensed drivers to pay a higher fee and face a harsher penalty if their car is impounded. Rep. Neil Walter, R-St. George, wants to increase the number of employers that are required to use E-verify, a system that allows companies to confirm the eligibility of their employees. Utah law currently requires employers with 150 more employees to use E-verify, after bringing that number up from 15 employees three years ago House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield, is proposing increasing the detention capacity to facilitate deportations of illegal immigrants who commit crimes in Utah, according to a press release. It wasnt clear where capacity would be increased, as the bill is not yet public. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley administered the oath of office to new members in the Assembly. (Baylor Spears | Wisconsin Examiner) Wisconsin state lawmakers gathered Monday to be sworn in, marking the beginning of the 2025-27 legislative session and giving legislative leaders the opportunity to lay out their intentions for the upcoming session. While Republicans maintain control of both chambers, the margins in both bodies will be slimmer than previously. The Assembly returns this year with 54 Republicans and 45 Democrats and the Senate returns with 18 Republicans and 15 Democrats; this includes six new state Senators and 31 new Assembly members. In the Assembly, 23 of the new lawmakers are Democrats and eight are Republicans. All of the new state Senators are Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bodies met concurrently Monday afternoon in their respective chambers, surrounded by family and friends, to take their oaths of office. Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley administered the oath of office to new members in the Assembly, while Appeals Court Judge Maria S. Lazar administered it in the Senate. Following the oaths, lawmakers voted to set leadership for each chamber and the calendar for the session. Assembly lawmakers voted to officially elect Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, the states longest serving Speaker, to serve another term in the position. Democrats nominated Minority Leader Greta Neubauer (D-Racine) for the position, though they were outnumbered by Assembly Republicans who had previously voted as a caucus for Vos to continue in another term. While we will always seek to find common ground, rest assured, we will never sacrifice our principles and we dont expect anyone else here to either, Vos said to lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vos laid out his goals for the session including passing a tax cut given the states $4.5 billion budget surplus, not growing the size of government by creating new programs, demanding accountability and measurable results before increasing spending, and increasing government efficiency and innovation. The money that we set aside for that tax cut will not be spent by this Legislature on other wants, no matter how many special interests or tax-and-spend politicians apply pressure to get it out of the treasurys hands, Vos said. The wants of Vos will be in contention with those of Gov. Tony Evers and Democratic lawmakers, who have said that they hope to have more influence this session given the closer margins. Vos has said its possible that lawmakers will accomplish less because of the close margins. Vos said the newly created Assembly Government Operations, Accountability and Transparency (GOAT) committee, which will be chaired by Rep. Amanda Nedweski, will lead the effort to improve efficiency. The committee was inspired by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) which is not an official federal agency headed by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, working with the incoming Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican leaders had a similar message in the Senate. Senate President Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk) was officially elected to her new leadership position Monday. Addressing her colleagues, she highlighted her status as the second woman in Wisconsin history to hold the Senate President position and recognized former Sen. Mary Lazich for her dedication and strength to blaze the trail. She then committed to helping facilitate bipartisan debate in the chamber in her position presiding over the Senate. In this time of sensationalized politics and 30-second Twitter clips, true debate on the Senate floor is needed more than ever, Felzkowski said. From this chair, I will ensure the right of the minority to be heard as they argue their case, while at the same time ensuring that the will of the majority still reigns true. I will expect and encourage robust debate, but require the dignity and respect for the rules that our constituents expect of us to have a government of the people by the people. Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) said his top priority will be to return the budget surplus to Wisconsin taxpayers, strengthen the economy and to pass a responsible, balanced budget. He also took aim at Evers, who has started to outline some of his hopes for the state budget, including additional education spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wisconsin is approaching a crossroads. In one direction we can create prosperity, and in the other direction, we can create hardship, LeMahieu said. More than $4 billion of taxpayer money is sitting in a bank account here in Madison, while rising prices impact the families who sent us here to serve them [Evers] wants to use that money to grow the size of government and send Wisconsin backwards. Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein (D-Middleton) emphasized that her goal and challenge to other lawmakers is to work with each other, constituents and experts to achieve common sense solutions. She highlighted affordable health care and prescription drug coverage, financial security, healthy families and safe schools as some of the goals that lawmakers likely share but disagree about how to achieve. Lets make a promise today that we wont let that partisan bickering, public squabbles, nonsense and nastiness to get into this chamber, and that is going to take work. Lets commit to having an open door policy to listen to the ideas, no matter who has them, and talk about the real issues impacting peoples lives, Hesselbein said. Lets show Wisconsinites that their legislators, that you and I, that this Senate body is a force for good and has the best interests of every single Wisconsinite at heart. The first half of 2025 will test lawmakers commitment to their promises to work together and to their policy goals as they hammer out the states next two-year state budget. As Evers is beginning to craft his budget proposal, Republican lawmakers are already taking issue with some of his proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers announced Monday morning that he would urge lawmakers to create a path for citizen-led referendums to create changes to state law in his budget proposal, but Republican leaders were quick to shoot the idea down. The budget should be a budget, not a policy document. Instead of proposing a laundry list of policy items, [Evers] should be focusing his effort on using the state surplus to address rising costs, LeMahieu wrote in a post on social media. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Snow came down all throughout the Pittsburgh region Monday, with some of the southern areas seeing more than others. We saw plenty of plow trucks out today. In Canonsburg, we saw back roads and main roads cleared off. PennDOT told Channel 11 they have crews out in full force treating the roadways. A parent told Channel 11 crews have been doing a good job in his neighborhood along Giffin Avenue. It was definitely snowing I first heard the snow plows going 2 this morning so theyve been doing a good job keeping everything clear, Boyd Bower said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others were out enjoying the weather. I enjoy it. Im here with my dogs. I love walking them. I enjoy the nature, Malathi Machani said. Earlier today, we saw some kids taking advantage of the snow. Many classes were cancelled today due to the snow. Some kids at Canonsburg park were sled riding. I love snow days because theres snow is everywhere you can go sled riding and make snow angels and just have a lot of fun and here kids come from all around the neighborhood to sled and be with family, Vivianna Bower said. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW A contested mine in Central Idaho that will produce gold and antimony earned the U.S. Forest Services final approval following a lengthy environmental review and objections from the Nez Perce Tribe, which will lose access for decades to federal lands guaranteed by a U.S. treaty. Perpetua Resources, the Canadian company behind the proposal, expects to start mining at the remote site near Yellow Pine by 2028 after three years of construction, according to Perpetuas project timeline. With the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, now met, the company still needs to obtain a discharge permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and several state permits before mining operations may begin. While extracting a considerable gold deposit valued at $13 billion from the open-pit mine over an estimated 20 years, Perpetua also will dig up one of the largest known reserves of antimony in the U.S. and outside of Chinese control. The critical mineral is used in clean-energy technology, flame retardants and military weaponry, and has generated interest from the U.S. government for national defense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perpetua has promoted what it calls the Stibnite Gold Project as a way to not only haul out the prized materials, but also clean up longstanding environmental damage to the area from decades of previous mining. Through restoration work, the company says it aims to improve water quality and help endangered salmon reach miles of spawning habitat that have been blocked for years. This approval elevates the Stibnite Gold Project to an elite class of projects in America that have cleared NEPA, Jon Cherry, Pepetuas president and CEO, said in a statement. The Stibnite Gold Project can deliver decisive wins for our communities, the environment, the economy, and our national security. Mckinsey Lyon, center, spokesperson for Perpetua Resources, points out some of the mining companys environmental restoration plans at its proposed Stibnite Gold Project site near Yellow Pine. The company hopes to begin mining operations for gold and antimony in 2028. Perpetua reported that it has already spent more than $17 million on initial cleanup of some of the sites mine tailings in a deal brokered with the Environmental Protection Agency to offset risk of those materials further degrading water quality. The Nez Perce Tribe earlier sued Perpetua over alleged Clean Water Act violations, which resulted in a settlement: The company agreed to pay $5 million into a tribe-managed fund for water quality improvements to the Salmon Rivers South Fork watershed. The tribe, which holds fishing and hunting rights in perpetuity to the area, has criticized the overarching project, as well as the Forest Service for a lack of proper environmental review in its recorded decision. Tribal members and environmentalists are worried about further water contamination, which would hamper ongoing efforts to improve salmon populations in the Salmon River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The selected alternative minimizes adverse environmental impacts on National Forest (lands) where feasible, consistent with the requirements while providing sufficient access to allow mining operations to proceed, Payette National Forest Supervisor Matthew Davis wrote in the mining permit approval that posted late Friday. In a statement, Shannon Wheeler, the Nez Perces tribal chair, described the approval as a breach of the promise made to his people 170 years ago, when the U.S. signed a treaty in 1855 preceding by 17 years the Mining Law of 1872, which governs mineral rights in the U.S. The tribe is extremely disappointed in the Forest Services decision, Wheeler said, and called on the Army Corps of Engineers to honor its treaty rights. The tribes treaties with the United States are the supreme law of the land and remain binding, he said. The Idaho Conservation League, an environmental group that frequently analyzes mine sites in the state, opposes the project because it said the portrait of environmental stewardship painted by the company is not reflected in the mines blueprints. The groups public lands director labeled Perpetuas mining plan the equivalent of high-risk open-heart surgery for the watershed after the Forest Service dismissed ICLs suggestions to address significant flaws in the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even the Forest Services own analysis states that doing nothing is better for the environment than building the Stibnite Gold Project, John Robison, ICLs public lands and wildlife director, said in a statement. The Stibnite Gold Project is an unfortunate reminder of why we need to reform the Mining Law of 1872 so we can protect public interests instead of undermining them. Mining officials: We trust the end product The long-awaited mining permit came after eight years of federal review, and had the backing of Idahos four federal lawmakers, all Republicans. For too long, we have let China hold the cards when it comes to critical mineral production. This Record of Decision is a vital first step in advancing the production of American antimony and strengthening our national defense, the four lawmakers said in a statement released Monday. Still, we must significantly reform the permitting processes to effectively compete with China and fully leverage the resources in our backyard. On Monday, Idaho Republican Gov. Brad Little also offered his support for the proposed project. The Gem State has a variety of rare earth minerals that are important to national security, and the process of obtaining them should be less onerous, he told the Statesman at a press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This country desperately needs strategic minerals, Little said. Theres no question that, at a minimum, we need to smooth the regulatory hurdles for them to get through. We still want to protect our water quality, our wildlife and our air quality, but we can do both. The Democratic administration of President Joe Biden, which is set to exit the White House on Jan. 20, has not responded to repeat requests from the Idaho Statesman for its position on the mine for more than three weeks, including again on Monday. But the projects approval came under Bidens watch. In April, the Export-Import Bank of the U.S., an independent executive branch agency that provides loans when private lenders arent willing, sent Perpetua a letter of interest that the company qualifies for up to $1.8 billion in project debt financing. As of 2020, the project was estimated to cost $1.3 billion to mine, according to Perpetua officials. Over the past two years, the Department of Defense also has awarded $75 million in federal grants to Perpetua toward the mine, most of it through the Defense Production Act authorized by the president. The federal windfall is intended to spur on the Canadian company to show it can deliver high-grade antimony for use in munitions and to prove a fully domestic American supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Billionaire hedge fund manager John Paulson, who is a major Republican donor and maintains close ties to President-elect Donald Trump, is Perpetuas leading shareholder. Paulson & Co. also has considerable investments in seven other gold mining companies, all but one based in Canada. The bulk of the revenues from the Idaho mine at least 93% will still come from gold. Perpetua officials have noted that the project doesnt pencil out without the value brought by gold at the site, which they said pays for the restoration work, as well as insulates the project from having to shutter if commodity prices or the market for antimony flounder. Lets be clear: This is a taxpayer-financed gold mine, the ICLs Robison said. Perpetua never offered and the Forest Service never analyzed a targeted antimony mining proposal that would entail much less surface disturbance, mine waste, and overall impact. Whats more, having a small percent of antimony in a gold project should not give anyone a pass for a project that could end up doing immeasurable harm. Now that the federal permit has been issued, Perpetua is prepared for more lawsuits should they materialize, company spokesperson Mckinsey Lyon told a committee of state lawmakers last year. Perpetua will continue with mine construction plans in the interim to avoid any more delays, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, it seems like litigation is the final phase of any mining project these days, so we anticipate it, Lyon said. Over eight years all voices have been heard and the work has been done, and, on the merits, we trust the end product. Wheeler said the Nez Perce Tribe is evaluating next steps. Since it first arrived in the tribes homeland, gold mining has only served to dispossess the Nez Perce people, his statement read. By every indication, this mine will be no different. Jan. 6Sandra Burton said her goal to raise funds to buy 1,000 sleeping bags by the end of 2024 was met before midnight on New Year's Eve, with money for 1,005 bags. But when a major winter storm hit the Golden Belt over the weekend, the Rest Easy Sleeping Bag Project provided warmth in other ways. The Central Kansas Dream Center opened its doors as a warming station Saturday afternoon and donations originally earmarked for sleeping bags also helped buy crockpots to provide hot meals, Burton said. "Every single dollar that was given was needed," she said, recalling some of the gifts that came in. "Walmart's donation of $100 on (Dec.) 29th paid for five sleeping bags. There was one donation for $1,000. There were two donations of $500 each. All the rest came in small amounts from lots of people. It took every single one and every single dollar, even down to the $1 a girl gave me at the Dog House bar." The Rest Easy Sleeping Bag Project was created to give away sleeping bags to homeless people in central Kansas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Interestingly, when we first opened the account at First Kansas Bank, Jay (Leurman), the bank manager, said, 'We are going to name this account the Rest Easy Project because I have a feeling it will be for more than sleeping bags.'" Burton reached out to Buzz Birney with Live Like Jesus Today Ministries to help with orders and distribution. "By Dec. 31 at midnight 1,005 sleeping bags had been ordered and paid for," Burton said. "They are still coming in. Of course the weather has delayed that, although USPS delivered five cases (Saturday) evening, which are now in my living room because it was too slick to put it in the garage." To meet her goal by the end of 2024, Burton said she continued to seek donors on New Year's Eve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I went 'ice' cold calling the morning of Dec. 31, cruising down Patton Road. I stopped at four different places. None of them had even heard about the project and so my 15-second explanation was all they had." Burton told people the average cost for a case of 10 bags is $175. "In two businesses they simply just wrote a check for $175 and handed it to me, no questions asked. The other two places gave me cash. In less than an hour I had collected $550!" she said. "I didn't know that my 'ice' cold calling would be quickly followed by our ice cold storm," she added. "Two more checks came in on Dec. 31, so we had more money than we needed ... Or so we thought." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Winter storm arrives "Buzz sent out a Facebook message (on Saturday) saying they were opening the Dream Center at 4 p.m. and they needed casseroles and crockpots of soup. I texted him and I said I don't cook, but we have money for crockpots and soup from Walmart. He said that would be great, since they feed people often and they could use more crockpots. Being very grateful that I learned how to drive in this kind of weather, I made it safely to Walmart (and then) to the Dream Center and back home." On Sunday, Birney sent out another Facebook message requesting food that their team would come and get. Burton said she was able to do an online transfer of cash from the sleeping bag project to buy supplies for food. Although the project was for 1,000 sleeping bags for those in need, it touched countless more than 1,000 people, Burton said, praising the generosity of the Great Bend community. "The givers, the people who heard the stories, the people at the bank who saw the money coming in, all the views on Facebook for all of our livestreams and videos. That's when a project becomes something much bigger than itself. And that's how God works. Buzz Burney's crew from Live Like Jesus Today Ministries, people whose names I don't know, giving of themselves out in this weather, organizing food ... Great Bend is blessed to have people with giving hearts and people with boots on the ground to take care of each other." Macau has entered the peak period of influenza, with the number of consultations for the illness increasing significantly in recent weeks, according to health officials in a press conference yesterday. Leong Iek Hou, head of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Division of the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of the Health Bureau (SSM), stated that Macau entered the peak period of influenza late last month. Last week, the number of influenza consultations among adults and children increased by 39% and 23% week-on-week, respectively. Leong expects the influenza virus to remain active in the next few weeks, and different influenza viruses may circulate alternately. Vaccination can prevent four subtypes of the virus, including H1, H3, and two B types, she noted. Chang Tam Fei, director of the emergency department of Conde de S. Januario, said that the average daily number of consultations has continued to rise since late last month, with the average follow-up time reaching 71 minutes. We use 800 consultations as a warning line, and we have seen numbers consistently exceed this threshold, Chang said. Manpower and hospital beds have been allocated according to the situation, and Chang urged patients with mild symptoms to make use of community medical facilities to reduce the burden on hospitals. Chan Choi Wan, deputy head of the Department of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, revealed that a total of 162,000 people have been vaccinated against influenza, an increase of nearly 42% year-on-year. The vaccination results for high-risk groups are satisfactory. In addition to influenza, Macau has also seen an upward trend in various acute respiratory infectious diseases, with the detection rates of respiratory influenza viruses and enteroviruses being 12.4% and 21% respectively. Health officials in Macau are urging the public to get vaccinated against influenza as soon as possible to combat the ongoing peak season. Over the weekend, the SSM has already issued an alert regarding the active influenza virus in the region, indicating that it has surpassed the warning level and is now at epidemic peak. Recent data from hospital surveillance shows a notable increase in influenza-like illness visits since late December 2024. Specifically, adult emergency room visits for such cases rose by 39%, while visits among children increased by 23.1%. In the 52nd week of 2024 alone, influenza-like cases constituted 5.2% of total adult visits and 15.6% among children, reflecting a concerning trend. The bureau reported a significant rise in the positive rate of influenza viruses detected in patients, jumping from 2.6% in the previous week to 15%, exceeding the warning threshold of 14.5%. The predominant strain identified is influenza A H1, accounting for 75% of cases. Additionally, four cluster infection events were recorded in December, primarily affecting schools. Macau has reported 21 critical cases requiring ventilators this year, with five fatalities; most affected individuals had not been vaccinated. Victoria Chan Rise in gastroenteritis cases driven by norovirus infections In recent weeks, Macau has seen a significant increase in acute gastroenteritis cases, with a notable surge in norovirus infections, the Health Bureau (SSM) reported. According to SSMs data, the number of people seeking medical attention for acute gastroenteritis rose from an average of 88 cases per week in November 2024 to 125 cases by the end of December. Additionally, the weekly average of reported norovirus infection cases jumped from 12 in November to 92 by the end of December. The majority of the cases were attributed to either foodborne gastroenteritis or human-to-human transmission involving large groups of people. The bureau has notified the relevant departments and implemented infection control measures in response to 12 collective gastroenteritis outbreaks, seven of which were confirmed to be caused by norovirus. Acute gastroenteritis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria, and the most common pathogens are norovirus and salmonella, the SSM explained. Transmission can occur through contaminated food or water, contact with infected individuals, or exposure to contaminated objects. The SSM is urging the public to prioritize personal, environmental, and food hygiene to prevent the further spread of the disease. VC Investigators said the person who shot at a retired Fulton County deputy is dead after shooting that deputy in the hand. It happened around 5 p.m. along Lee Street. Channel 2 investigative reporter Mark Winne has learned that the deputy was working off duty when he was flagged down by a group of people while working an off-duty job on Monday afternoon. Shortly after being waved down, Lt. (Gerald) Johnson approached an encounter with a perpetrator who had an assault-type rifle. They exchanged gunfire, Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat told Channel 2s Brittany Kleinpeter during a Monday night news conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gunman and Johnson were both injured. The shooter later died from their injuries. TRENDING STORIES: Johnson was rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital for their injuries. The Fulton County Sheriffs Office confirmed his injuries we non-life-threatening. The only thing I heard was a whole lot of gunshots, like 30 shots man. I couldnt even believe it. It was like out of a movie scene, one witness told Channel 2s Tom Regan at the shooting scene. Labat commended Johnsons actions, saying he did exactly what he was trained to do. He ran towards danger and he did an excellent job, Labat said. The sheriff said Johnson began working for the agency in 1993 and retired a few years ago before returning to work part-time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atlanta police said they are investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting, but Labat said he believes there was gunfire exchanged inside the Easy Rental on Lee Street. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has also been called in and is investigating the deputy-involved shooting part of this investigation. Conservation advocates and a federal wildlife agency are offering $20,000 for information on each of three recent wolf poaching incidents in Washington. (Gary Kramer/U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) Conservation advocates and a federal wildlife agency are offering $20,000 for information on each of three recent wolf poaching incidents in Washington. Since October, three gray wolves have been illegally killed in Klickitat and Okanogan counties. Gray wolves are considered endangered under state law and federally protected in the western two-thirds of the state, including Klickitat and Okanogan counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Center for Biological Diversity are both offering $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction for each case. Im so saddened by the illegal killings of yet more Washington wolves, which add to the enormous spike in human-caused wolf mortality here in recent years, said Amaroq Weiss, senior wolf advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity. These beautiful animals didnt deserve to die this way, and whoever killed them should face the full force of the law. On Oct. 6, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife investigated the death of an adult male gray wolf that occurred east of the Klickitat River near U.S. Highway 142 and Goldendale in the south-central part of the state. The wolf died from starvation after it was shot and had to drag itself to a water source without the use of its back legs, according to the agency. Another deceased wolf, an adult female, was found Oct. 20 southwest of Twisp in Okanogan County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department began investigating the death of another adult male wolf in Klickitat County on Dec. 17. The wolf was killed northeast of Trout Lake and was the last remaining member of the Big Muddy Pack, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In total, five wolves were illegally killed in Washington last year, according to the agency. Four of the deaths are still under active investigation. Under state law, killing an endangered species can result in up to $5,000 in fines and one year in jail. Anyone who knowingly violates the federal Endangered Species Act can face up to one year in prison and up to $50,000 in fines. Anyone with information about the killings should contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service using their tip line at 844-FWS-TIPS or through its website. They can also reach out to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife at 877-933-9487 or send an email to reportpoaching@dfw.wa.gov. Callers can remain anonymous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington State Standard, like the Idaho Capital Sun, is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Washington State Standard maintains editorial independence. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX STATE LINE, Miss. (WJTV) The search is ongoing for the suspect who killed three people at a Mississippi gas station on New Years Day. Residents of State Line are still uneasy because the suspect has not been captured. Everyone is just still scared, because they havent caught the person yet. Just fear. You know, you got to watch your surroundings. So, you know, everybodys just on the lookout, said Deon Kern, a State Line resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reward for information leading to the arrest of the unidentified suspect has been raised to $25,000. Greene County deputies said the suspect is considered to be armed and dangerous. Mississippi authorities search for triple homicide suspect Hes one of the most dangerous people Ive dealt with since Ive been in law enforcement. You know, watching the videos of, you know, each murder that took place was on video. And Ill just say, he has no remorse, said Greene County Deputy Brad Warrick. Though the sheriffs department remains the lead investigator, the case has been turned over to the Jackson County District Attorneys Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple law enforcement agencies continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the person or persons responsible for these tragic and cowardly acts are brought to justice. Jackson Co. District Attorneys Office For now, the community said theyre looking out for one another and remembering the lives of Rhonda Denson, Lester Campbell and Jason Thornton. Miss Rhonda, I knew her. She worked here for a long time. She went to Waynesboro and came back. She hadnt been back to State Line long. We were glad to see her back, and the other guy that got killed, Jason, Ive known him really all my life, said Terry Young, a State Line resident. Anyone with information can contact the Greene County Sheriffs Department at (601)394-2342 or Crime Stoppers at (877)787-5898. Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in the case. You can call **Tips or download the app, P3 Tips. 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 WJTV. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WWLP) A man is being accused of stealing a police cruiser in Rhode Island and taking it for a joy ride across state lines to Connecticut. DEEP identifies body found in Connecticut River Jared Remson, 27, of Pawtucket is scheduled to face a judge on Tuesday, according to our NBC affiliate WJAR. He allegedly stole the police cruiser on Saturday outside of Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer was inside the hospital during the incident and reported it stolen. Connecticut State Police spotted the cruiser crossing the state line on I-95 South about an hour later. Police say Remson was driving faster than 100 mph at times. Hes facing several charges including first-degree larceny and reckless driving. 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. For more than five years straight, Rhode Island has been one of the most moved to states in the country. Moving company United Van Lines released its annual national movers study on Jan. 1, which compiles moving data for each state around the country. In 2024, Rhode Island ranked No. 7 on the list of most inbound moves. In 2023, Rhode Island was No. 5 on that list and in 2022, it was No. 3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As housing costs continue to rise, Americans are moving to lower density, more affordable regions between expensive, economic-driving states," said Michael A. Stoll, a public policy professor at The University of California, Los Angeles. moving truck; people moving How many people moved to Rhode Island in 2024? More than 58% of moves in Rhode Island were inbound, according to data from United Van Lines. That means just over 41% of moves in the state were people migrating from Rhode Island. The primary reasons people moved to Rhode Island last year were because of family or job reasons, according to the study. Most of the inbound movers were aged 35 to 44, and 50% of them had an income of $150,000 or more. Which states did people move to the most in 2024? According to United Van Lines, the top ten states with the most inbound movers in 2024 were: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement West Virginia Delaware South Carolina District of Columbia North Carolina Alabama Rhode Island Oregon Arkansas Arizona Which states did people move out of the most in 2024? According to United Van Lines, the top nine states with the most outbound movers in 2024 were: Nebraska New Jersey Illinois New York California Massachusetts North Dakota Wyoming Mississippi This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Which state was moved to the most in 2024? RI was one of the top PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Rhode Island lawmakers will return to Smith Hill Tuesday for the start of the new legislative session. R.I. House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi told 12 News hes extremely concerned about the states roughly $300 million budget deficit. This year particularly its going to be a difficult year, Shekarchi said. We in Rhode island, as a state, have to live like all other Rhode Islanders within our means. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State House is a beautiful building, but I can assure you that theres no printing press in the basement, he continued. Were not making money. So, well have to live with what we have. RELATED: RI on track to finish budget year with $77 million surplus Gov. Dan McKee is expected to outline how he plans to close that gap when he unveils his budget proposal next week. Everything is on the table, Shekarchi said. I say that literally, including tax hikes and cuts in spending. Shekarchi said addressing the budget deficit is only one of his legislative priorities this year. He said housing is also near the top of list, as well as devoting more time to overseeing the states executive branch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to have oversight hearings on the Washington Bridge, and you can expect oversight hearings on the cyberattack, he said. 12 News asked Shekarchi about whether firearms legislation is on his mind, especially after Senate President Dominick Ruggerio publicly suggested he may drop his longstanding opposition to banning assault weapons. I try to be a very collaborative person, so I keep an open mind on everything, he said. I will point out that, since I have been speaker, weve passed more gun safety legislation in Rhode Island than ever before. Shekarchi also expects proposals that progressed, but never passed, in previous sessions to come up again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think you could see some restructuring of the [Coastal Resources Management Council]. I think you could see some work around the statute of limitations on child sex crimes. I think the smoking ban at Twin River is another, Shekarchi said. Other Rhode Island leaders have also been weighing in as legislators prepare to return. McKee plans to highlight health and wellness in next weeks State of the State address, while Providence Mayor Brett Smiley will seek more revenue and control of the citys schools. 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. Richard Cohen, a former senior producer on CNN and CBS News who was married for 38 years to Today anchor Meredith Vieira, died of following a two-month battle with pneumonia December 24 after living with multiple sclerosis for more than five decades. He was 76. Cohens death was announced this morning on both NBCs Today and ABCs The View. Vieira was an original host on The View, and Cohen was a frequent visitor to the daytime talk show during her tenure there. More from Deadline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News of Cohens death was shared on both shows at the request of Vieira. Todays Hoda Kotb and The Views Joy Behar said Cohen, who had twice overcome cancer, passed away on Christmas Eve surrounded by his family and love. (See video below.) Quoting Vieira, Behar said that the date of his passing was fitting, because he came into this world on Valentines Day, and his Christmas Eve death felt like perfect symmetry. Cohen was born February 14, 1948, on Long Island, New York. Behar, who described Cohen as a longtime friend, described him as refreshing and good humored about his MS and other health battles. I remember he had a cancer scare one time that was devastating to [Vieira] and, of course, to him, Behar said, but he never let illness control or define his lifeHe was a renaissance man, an accomplished writer and a TV producer and a three-time Emmy winner. Richard had a long history with us too, Behar said, affectionately adding that Cohen even got used to Vieiras big mouth at the Hot Topics table, where she spilled the tea about their sex life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his 2005 memoir Blindsided: Lifting a Life Above Illness: A Reluctant Memoir, Cohen, who was legally blind, wrote about being diagnosed in 1973 with MS at age 25. In 1999 and 2000, he overcame two bouts of colon cancer. Cohen won three Emmy Awards for his work as at CBS News. He and Vieira married in 1986. She survives him, as do their sons Ben, 36, and Gabe, 34, and daughter Lily, 32. Kotb and Behar noted that Ben, Gabe and Lily had been staying with Cohen and Vieira since Thanksgiving. [They were] concerned they were going to lose him early, Kotb said. Instead, they got a glorious month with their dad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Today this morning, Savannah Guthrie said Vieira is in really good spirits. She was such a beautiful and devoted wife to Richard and he adored Meredith. "Our dear friend and original 'View' moderator Meredith Vieira wanted us to share with all of you that her husband of 38 years, Richard Cohen, passed away on Christmas Eve," @JoyVBehar shares. "Our hearts go out to our beloved Meredith, as well as Richard's family and many pic.twitter.com/AXMX7POn68 The View (@TheView) January 7, 2025 Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. City Hall in Richmond, Va. (Parker Michels-Boyce for The Virginia Mercury) Efforts to fully restore water service in Richmond faced another setback Tuesday evening, just hours before the Virginia General Assembly was set to convene for its 2025 session. The disruptions, caused by a winter storm that knocked out power to the citys water treatment plant, were further complicated when an equipment failure at the facility slowed progress, city officials said. The water crisis had forced the closure of all state office buildings in Richmond, including the state Capitol and the General Assembly Building, as well as state offices in Hanover County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legislature will convene its regular session at noon on Wednesday, but lawmakers will quickly recess until Monday, House Clerk Paul Nardo said in an email Tuesday evening. The Capitol and GAB will remain closed through Sunday with no public access, working restrooms, or food services. Earlier on Tuesday, city officials had reported signs of improvement, including restored computer systems and resumed water flow. However, a malfunction in an electric panel at the plant has now extended the timeline for bringing the water system back to full capacity. Richmond Mayor Danny Avula acknowledged the delay but said crews are working to correct the problems and get residents water flowing again. While we are disappointed to learn that the Tuesday afternoon panel failure has slowed our progress, service teams remain on duty round-the-clock to re-pressurize the water system and restore water distribution throughout the city, Avula said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are pulling in additional resources and experts to help solve the problem as we work towards returning water service to full functionality. City engineers initially believed the malfunction would not cause significant delays, but further analysis revealed a more complex issue requiring additional time and resources to address. Staff from the Department of Public Utilities, along with local and national experts, are continuing efforts to restore operations. Avula has maintained a presence at the plant to oversee the process and ensure all available resources are being deployed to resolve the situation. Because clean and available drinking water is paramount to public health and a thriving life, we are working hard to make sure Richmond has access to safe and clean drinking water, Avula said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boil water advisory remains in effect, and residents are encouraged to conserve water. Officials have not provided an updated timeline for lifting the advisory but previously warned that drinkable water may not be available until Thursday. Gov. Glenn Youngkin has been closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with Richmond Mayor Danny Avula, according to Youngkin spokesman Christian Martinez. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Virginia Department of Health have coordinated closely with the city to provide technical support and emergency supplies, Martinez said earlier on Tuesday. He added that state agencies worked overnight to supply area hospitals with tanker trucks of water and delivered nearly 70 pallets of bottled water to the city, with an additional 350 pallets en route for distribution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To support vulnerable populations, Richmonds Human Services portfolio partnered with the Richmond Sheriffs Office and the American Red Cross to distribute bottled water in high-priority areas. Deliveries focused on homeless shelters, public housing, and residences for older adults, with outreach efforts continuing throughout the day. Bottled water distribution sites across the city are set to operate until 2 p.m. on Wednesday at these locations: Broad Rock Library Hickory Hill Community Center Bellemeade Community Center Midtown Green Pine Camp Community Center Westover Hills Community Center East End District Initiative (EDI) State and local officials will provide updates as testing progresses and conditions improve. Residents are reminded to boil water for at least three minutes before drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth until the advisory is lifted. Impact on the legislature The ongoing water crisis in Richmond has forced the closure of the state Capitol and General Assembly Building and will delay legislative activity, just as 140 lawmakers and staff from across the state were set to begin the 2025 legislative session on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers will convene briefly at noon to address procedural resolutions, including salaries and contingencies, before recessing until Monday, due to the water outage. No additional legislative business or committee meetings will take place this week, and the Capitol and GAB will remain closed through Sunday. Nardo, the House clerk, notified lawmakers and staff on Tuesday, urging those already in the Capitol to vacate the building immediately, citing unsafe conditions. Yesterday, a cascading series of events occurred when a power outage from the winter storm knocked out power to Richmonds water reservoir system and caused it to malfunction, taking the system offline, Nardo said in an email. Nardo reported that by Tuesday morning water pressure had gone kaput in the Capitol and GAB, with no water in some buildings and low pressure in others. Officials warned that even when water returns, it could take 1618 hours to stabilize the system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When water does come back up, officials have asked us to conserve water to help with pressure, Nardo said. Its just not safe yet to resume non-drinking water uses like flushing toilets and washing hands. The crisis has also disrupted staffing plans at the Capitol. Legislative aides, interns, and most support staff have been instructed not to report to work this week, while House chamber staff will be present on Wednesday morning to manage the abbreviated session. Pages have already been sent home. Nardo encouraged lawmakers to return to their districts until Monday, when they will reconvene for Youngkins State of the Commonwealth address at 10 a.m., which was initially scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. I know this is A LOT to digest, but its been an unprecedented and challenging few days, Nardo told lawmakers and staffers in an email update on Tuesday evening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its important to the Speaker and me that we will be fulfilling our constitutionally required obligations while also being realistic about what is possible on Capitol Square tomorrow and for the rest of this week. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The city of Richmond on Monday issued an immediate boil water advisory following power outages related to a winter storm in the area. (Courtesy of NBC12) The city of Richmond, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health, issued an immediate boil water advisory on Monday, urging all residents to conserve water and boil it before consumption until further notice. The advisory comes after a winter storm caused a power outage that temporarily disrupted the citys water reservoir system, leading to pressure drops and service interruptions across parts of Richmond. While some residents experienced complete water loss, others reported reduced water pressure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our top priority is the health and safety of our residents and neighbors. I am asking all Richmonders to limit their water usage as the team at the Department of Public Utilities works around the clock to get our water system back online, Mayor Danny Avula said in a statement. Im also asking residents to consider their neighbors, and only use as much water as they need all in this together. In a coordinated regional effort, the neighboring counties of Chesterfield, Henrico, and Hanover disconnected from Richmonds water supply and switched to alternate sources. Officials confirmed that residents in those localities are not affected by the advisory. April Bingham, senior director for the Department of Public Utilities, assured residents that restoration efforts are well underway. We know the importance water plays in our everyday lives, Bingham said. My team is diligently working to bring the water system back online along with the support of our partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials said that they will remain in close contact with the Virginia Department of Health to monitor and resolve the situation. Once the system is operational, utility workers will flush the lines and test the water to confirm its safety before lifting the advisory. Updates will be posted on the citys website, and shared through its official social media accounts as new information becomes available. Richmond city officials urge residents to follow these water safety guidelines: Do not drink tap water during the advisory period. Do not drink from water fountains in parks or public and private buildings connected to the Richmond water supply. Throw away any ice made from tap water and sanitize ice machines or trays. This includes ice and water dispensed directly from refrigerators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Do not use tap water to prepare drinks, juices, or fountain soft drinks. Use boiled water for washing dishes or opt for disposable plates and utensils until the advisory is lifted. Wash fruits and vegetables with boiled or bottled water instead of tap water. Use boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth. Only cook with tap water if the food will be boiled vigorously for at least three minutes. To conserve water, do the following: Shorten shower times or avoid taking showers if possible. Reduce the number of unnecessary toilet flushes Postpone washing clothes until water service is fully restored Use disposable plates or wait to wash until water safety is confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inspect faucets, shower heads, and pipes under cabinets for drips and repair any leaks immediately. For more information on boil water advisories, visit the Virginia Department of Health Boil Water FAQs webpage. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE WASHINGTON (DC News Now) Four Ride On bus routes in Silver Spring will see detours for several weeks due to Purple Line construction, according to the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT). The detours will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 7, as Purple Line construction crews will temporarily close Manchester Road north of Wayne Avenue for six weeks. This adjustment comes as 27 routes began changes on Sunday, Jan. 1, to improve efficiency. Routes 12, 13, 15 and 19 will be affected by the construction. Below is a comprehensive list of the detours on each route and alternative stops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amtrak trains canceled across region after winter storm blasts DMV Route 12 Detours to Takoma: From Wayne Avenue and Silgo Creek Parkway, turn right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Piney Branch Road, right onto Flower Avenue and back on route. Detours to Silver Spring: From Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road, left onto Piney Branch Road, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Wayne Avenue and back on route. Stops bypassed on the detour: 27076 East Wayne Avenue and Manchester Road 27078 East Wayne Avenue and Manchester Place 27080 East Wayne Avenue and Flower Avenue 22312 Flower Avenue and Plymouth Street 22314 Flower Avenue and Hartwell Road Alternate stops available: 23828 Manchester Road and Wayne Avenue 22290 Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road 27088 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road 22316 Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road 27070 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road Route 13 Detours to Takoma: From Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Three Oaks Drive, through Parkside, right onto Manchester Road, right onto Schuyler Road, left onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Piney Branch Road, left onto Flower Avenue and back on route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detours to Silver Spring: From Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road, turn left onto Piney Branch Road, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, right onto Schuyler Road, left onto Manchester Road, through Parkside, left onto Three Oaks Drive, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Colesville Road and back on route. Stops bypassed on the detour: 27076 East Wayne Avenue and Manchester Road 27078 East Wayne Avenue and Manchester Place 27080 East Wayne Avenue and Flower Avenue 22312 Flower Avenue and Plymouth Street 22314 Flower Avenue and Hartwell Road Alternative stops available: 23828 Manchester Road and Wayne Avenue 22290 Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road 23820 Manchester Road and Schuyler Road 23833 Manchester Road and Schuyler Road 22316 Flower Avenue and Piney Branch Road PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Montgomery County Ride On bus routes to change Route 15 Detours to Takoma- Langley: From Wayne Avenue and Sligo Creek Parkway, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Piney Branch Road and continue on Piney Branch Road until back on route. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detours to Silver Spring: From Piney Branch Road and Sligo Creek Parkway, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Wayne Avenue and back on route. Stops bypassed on the detour: 27074 East Wayne Avenue and Manchester Road 23812 Manchester Road and Bradford Road 23814 Manchester Road and Wayne Avenue 23812 Manchester Road and Bradford Road 23830 Manchester Road and Bradford Road Alternative stops available: 27088 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road 24940 Piney Branch Road and Manchester Road 27070 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road 24902 Piney Branch Road and Manchester Road Route 19 Detours to Northwood: From Wayne Avenue and Sligo Creek Parkway, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Piney Branch Road, left onto Flower Avenue and back on route. However, MCDOT noted that the two last night trips will not service Three Oaks. Detours to Silver Spring: From Flower Avenue and Wayne Avenue, continue on Flower Avenue, right on Piney Branch Road, right onto Sligo Creek Parkway, left onto Wayne Avenue and back on route. Stops bypassed on the detour: 3826 Manchester Road and Manchester Place 23816 Manchester Road and Manchester Place 23818 Manchester Road @8904 23824 Manchester Road @8904 24822 Manchester Road and Parkside Plaza parking lot Alternative stops available: 27088 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road 27070 Wayne Avenue and Mansfield Road 22310 Flower Avenue and Schuyler Road 22296 Wayne Avenue and Flower Avenue Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MCDOT encourages riders to plan their trips using the free Ride On trip planner app and follow Ride On bus on X for timely service 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 DC News Now | Washington, DC. Malaysias imprisoned former Prime Minister Najib Razak yesterday 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 tossed out his bid three months later. The Court of Appeals, in a 2-1 ruling yesterday, ordered the High Court to hear the merits of the case. The decision came after Najibs lawyer produced a letter from a Pahang state palace official confirming that then-Sultan Abdullah had issued the addendum order. 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. The lawyer said Najib gave a thumbs-up in court when the ruling was read. He said it was criminal for the government to conceal the addendum order. Shafee noted that a new High Court judge will now 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 took office a day later. Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has said he had no knowledge of such an order since he wasnt a member of the pardons board. The others named in Najibs application have not made any public comments. 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 charged and 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. MDT/AP BOSTON, Mass. (WWLP) The ringleader arrested in connection with an armed bank robbery on Marthas Vineyard in 2022 was sentenced to prison. According to the Justice Department in Boston, the ringleader, 33-year-old Miquel Antonio Jones of Edgartown, along with co-defendants, Omar Odion Johnson of Canterbury, N.H., Romane Andre Clayton of Jamaica, and Tevin Porter, of Bridgeport, Conn., robbed Rockland Trust Bank branch in Vineyard Haven at gunpoint. Three Lowell teenagers arrested in connection with allegedlly stealing from mailboxes (Department of Justice) On November 17, 2022, three masked and armed individuals forced their way into the rear door of the bank wearing dark-colored clothing and white masks that resembled an elderly man with exaggerated facial features. Surveillance showed that one was carrying what appeared to be a walkie-talkie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the suspects allegedly held a gun to the head of one of the bank employees and forced him to open the banks vault. Approximately $39,100 was taken and the employees were bound with duct tape and plastic zip ties. The suspects got away in an employees car. The investigation revealed Jones, Porter, and Johnson as the three suspects. Porter and Clayton left Marthas Vineyard together on a ferry and Jones and Johnson drove to a local farm associated with Joness landscaping job to dispose of any evidence. At the farm, detectives found two firearms used in the robbery in a hole in the ground, and the remainder of the robbery equipment, including the plastic masks was found burned. (Department of Justice) Approximately $39,100 was found at the home of Jones in his bedroom under a bureau. He was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Clayton, Johnson and Porter have each pleaded guilty to their roles in the conspiracy and are scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 8, Jan. 9, and Jan. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protecting the people of Massachusetts from criminal conduct comes in many forms, and this case highlights some of the most old-fashioned, blatant and terrifying criminal behavior we face: armed bank robbery. Miquel Antonio Jones orchestrated and led a calculated and violent robbery that terrorized bank employees and the surrounding community. His conduct left lasting emotional scars, and today, he is paying a significant price for his actions, said United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy This decade-long sentence sends a clear message: such violent and calculated crimes have no place in our communities. We will not tolerate those who threaten the safety of others, and we will continue to pursue justice to ensure Massachusetts remains a safe place for all who live and work here. (Department of Justice) This was a bold and brazen armed robbery carried out on a picturesque island at the start of the day. The ringleader of this robbery crew, Miquel Antonio Jones, showed up armed with loaded firearms, zip ties, duct tape, and plastic masks and forced employees into the bank at gunpoint, making them fear for their lives, said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. Its incredibly fortunate no one was hurt before the armed robbers opted to flee. Todays sentence makes it clear that bank robbery is not an easy payday, its a federal crime, and the FBI and our partners will ensure perpetrators like Jones are held fully accountable. 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. PORT ORANGE The husband-and-wife owners of Ritter's Frozen Custard, a local landmark eatery for more than a quarter-century, announced that Sunday will be their last day in business, at least for now. John Dame, who co-owns the restaurant/ice cream shop with his wife Renee, confirmed that they are looking for a new location in hopes of reopening the business they started in 1999. "I don't know where we'll wind up," said Dame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple said they need their new location to have a drive-through lane, which has become a must in the fast-food industry in recent years. It's something the current Port Orange location lacks. Renee Dame said she and her husband live in Daytona Beach. They would like to keep their business within a 20-mile radius of its current location. "People from Port Orange/New Smyrna Beach all the way to Ormond Beach and even Palm Coast know our business so we would want to stay within that range, where people know us," she said. A "For Sale" sign can be seen in front of the standalone Ritter's Frozen Custard shop at 4629 S. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Port Orange on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. The pet- and family-friendly restaurant/ice cream shop also serves food and has been a local landmark since it opened in 1999. Sunday, Jan. 12 will be its last day at its present location on the northeast corner of Clyde Morris and Herbert Street as its landlord has decided to sell the two-acre property as a retail redevelopment site. Why is Ritter's closing (at least temporarily)? Dame said their lease expired and that their landlord decided to put the two-acre property up for sale as a potential retail redevelopment site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The property at 4629 S. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Port Orange is on the northeast corner of Clyde Morris and Herbert Street. Commercial Realtors with CBRE in Orlando recently erected a "for sale" sign in front of Ritter's advertising the property as a two-acre retail site. The listing for the property on CBRE's website describes it as a "development opportunity at signalized hard corner" and gives an asking price of $1.3 million. An undated description of the property from several years ago on the real estate website Zillow described it as "a prime corner with more land to develop. Possibly up to 4,000 (square feet) and could double that by going two stories." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Zillow listing showed that the property was put up for sale in 2010 with an asking price of $1.79 million, but then was taken off the market the following year. The News-Journal was unable to reach the commercial Realtors marketing the property for comment. The Realtors, all with CBRE, are Kathy Bonini, Cabot Jaffee and James Mitchell. What is Ritter's? Ritter's Frozen Custard owners John and Renee Dame outside their business in Port Orange, Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. The Port Orange Ritter's opened on Aug. 20, 1999 in a distinctive 12-sided standalone 1,563-square-foot building that was constructed to the Dames' specifications. In addition to a large surface parking lot, the property includes a kids play area and several picnic tables. It only offers outdoor seating. John Dame is a military veteran who served in the Air Force and then went on to a career in the restaurant business working 22 years for the Eddy Corp., which was a longtime McDonald's franchisee in Volusia County. His wife worked 35 years at the Social Security office in Port Orange. She retired in 2014 to work full time at Ritter's. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Dame said he and his wife got the idea to become franchisees of Ritter's after visiting friends in Greenwood, Indiana, who served with him in the Air Force. They took the couple to a Ritter's location in Indianapolis on a chilly fall evening in 1996. "All three (walkup) windows were open and 10 customers were in line at each window at 9:45 at night (in 30 degree weather)," John Dame recalled. "I said, 'If it'll do that in Indianapolis, it'll do well in Florida.'" The Dames opened the first Ritter's location in Florida. Their Port Orange eatery's reputation as both a family-friendly and pet-friendly eatery helped grow a strong base of regular customers that come from as far north as Palm Coast and as far south as Edgewater. In addition to serving a wide array of frozen custard desserts and milk shakes, it offers a limited menu of food items that include Nathan's hotdogs, barbecue pork sandwiches, French fries and Frito pies. What's been their secret for success? "We work very hard. We believe in our product. We believe we have the best ice cream product out there," said Renee Dame, when asked how she and her husband have managed to stay in business for so many years in an industry with a high failure rate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We really strive to have the best customer service out there," she added. "We did what we could to keep the customers happy." Employee says 'it's a great first job' Renee Dame said one of their main goals when they started was "to develop young people and help prepare them for their futures." The 20 people they currently employ includes a number of local high school students. Store manager Isabella Giello, 21, began working at Ritter's as a server at age 15 after being a customer since she was a child with her family. "It's like family here," the Atlantic High School graduate said of why she continues to work at Ritter's while attending classes at Daytona State College to become a radiologist. "It's a great first job. They (the Dames) are so awesome. Pay is good. Everyone is so nice. ... I think we're going to be able to reopen." The couple do own a food truck The Dames also have a Ritter's food truck that caters birthday parties, corporate events and weddings. John Dame said he and his wife have not yet decided whether they will operate their business out of their food truck while looking for a new location. They would need a commercial kitchen in order to do that, they said. They aren't ready to retire Renee Dame said she and her husband plan to eventually retire, but are not yet ready to call it quits on their restaurant/ice cream shop business. She added that she is also a trainer for TRUFOODS LLC, the New York-based franchisor for Ritter's. She has helped franchise operators open Ritter's locations in other parts of Florida as well as in Texas, Indiana and Georgia. This is the distinctive 12-sided standalone building that houses the Ritter's Frozen Custard restaurant/ice cream shop at 4629 S. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Port Orange on Monday, Jan. 6, 2024. This coming Sunday will be the eatery's last day in business at the location that's been its home since 1999 as its lease has expired. Operators John and Renee Dame say they are looking for a new location in hopes of reopening soon. Who currently owns the property? According to Volusia County property records, the land where Ritter's is currently located is owned by an entity called Lookie LLC, an Indiana-based limited liability company whose managing partner is a man named Howard I. Gross. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The News-Journal was unable to reach Gross for comment. John Dame said he and his wife were originally partners in an investor group that included Gross and another investor that acquired the Port Orange property in the 1990s. It was previously a vacant lot. Sometime around 2010, Dame said he and his wife switched from being partners in Lookie LLC to strictly being tenants on a long-term lease that was renewed in 2020. Gross today is the sole owner of Lookie LLC, Dame said. What hours will Ritter's be open? The Dames said they intend to maintain their regular hours of operation through Sunday, unless they run out of product before then. The Port Orange Ritter's is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. If they still have product to sell on Sunday, their last day at their present location, the Dames intend to be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. They're open to adding investors "If there's any investors out there that would like to join us in our new pursuit, we're always open to talking to people." added Renee Dame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple can be reached via email at ritters116@gmail.com This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Ritter's Frozen Custard in Port Orange begins search for new home The Kentucky House of Representatives in Frankfort, Feb. 27, 2024. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Arden Barnes) As Kentucky lawmakers convene Tuesday in Frankfort, stakeholders are still waiting to see what legislation may be filed in this session of the General Assembly because prefiled bills were eliminated almost three years ago. Some advocates assert that bringing back prefiled bills or draft legislation publicly shared before it was formally filed would better support public participation, while others see more urgent priorities when it comes to improving transparency in Kentucky lawmaking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In years past, Kentuckians could review dozens of draft bills ahead of a legislative session. Legislative committees that meet during the interim between sessions could draft and approve bills for prefiling for the next regular session, says the LRC website, thus allowing bills to be introduced at the beginning of the session and standing committees to become active immediately. But in 2022 the General Assembly passed a new law that eliminated the opportunity for lawmakers to prefile bills and ended the practice of posting prefiled legislation in the Legislative Record and on the Legislative Research Commission (LRC) website. Republican House Speaker David Osborne was the primary sponsor of the bill that repealed the prefiling bill process. The measure easily cleared both chambers with bipartisan support and became law without Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears signature. House Speaker David W. Osborne, R-Prospect, left consults with House Republican Caucus Chair Suzanne Miles, R-Owensboro, in the House, April //, 2022. (LRC Public Information) At the time, Osborne told a committee meeting that lawmakers could direct the Legislative Research Commission to create a new working bill website. However, that website has not been implemented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentuckys elimination of prefiled bills puts it in the minority of states. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, more than three-fourths of legislative chambers have a process for prefiling bills. The loss of prefiled bills is among multiple obstacles to public participation in the lawmaking process detailed by the Kentucky League of Women Voters in an updated report on legislative transparency released last fall. The League has documented an increase in questionable maneuvers used by the legislature to fast-track controversial bills and exclude the public from participating in debates and decisions. Other challenges identified by the League: shell bills used to move sweeping policy changes with little notice or debate, committee meetings held at irregular times or not at all, and inconsistent access to records of legislative action. The League called for restoring the process for prefiling bills to allow more time for public input on proposed legislation. Prefiling drafted legislation gave the people of Kentucky time to study the issues and give input to legislators before the session started, the groups report said. This process allowed legislators to refine draft legislation using those insights from fellow legislators and constituents, possibly preventing unintended consequences of drafted bill language, and generally improving the bill. Sheila Schuster Sheila Schuster, who leads the Kentucky Mental Health Coalition and the 874K Disabilities Coalition, is one of many advocates who relied on prefiled bills to prepare for a legislative session. She said the groups typically met in December to review legislation. With this years 30-day session, the groups will start that process in mid-January after lawmakers break until February. Without prefiled bills, Schuster and the advocates she works with have less time to review bills and contact legislators about their proposals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schuster said not having prefiled bills is a big issue as she does not work on a single issue each session, but a variety of issues that deal with Kentucky health care. She called it a real roadblock to transparency as the work not only involves lobbying lawmakers, but also informing the public about issues. The average Kentucky citizen, if theyre trying to keep abreast, is not going to necessarily know whos working on what, Schuster said. I work with some legislators who send me bill drafts to get my input if it has to do with a mental health issue or a health care issue, because Ive been around for so long and have some expertise in some of those areas. But again, thats usually done in confidence. Andrew McNeill However, some advocates say calling for prefiled bills to return isnt one of their top priorities when it comes to legislative transparency. Though there is not a central webpage for draft legislation, some lawmakers have taken to sharing proposals on their own websites or social media accounts. Some drafts are also publicly available online as part of legislative committees meeting materials. Andrew McNeill, president of Kentucky Forum for Rights, Economics and Education (FREE), said bringing back prefiled bills wouldnt make my top three ways to make the legislature more transparent. He instead suggested a 48-hour rule for posting of committee substitute versions of bills before they get a vote on a chamber floor. FREE describes itself as a voice for conservative free-market principles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In my opinion, its the back end the final steps in the process and the intermediate steps in the process, McNeill said. Thats what creates far more value for transparency than having a bunch of prefiled bills. Jim Waters Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prefiled bills typically focused on local issues, as lawmakers could file them to show they were addressing a concern from a constituent, McNeil said. Very rarely did prefiled bills focus on big policy topics for an upcoming legislative session, McNeil said. Jim Waters, president of the Bluegrass Institute for Public Policy Solutions, which describes itself as a free-market think tank, said he can understand lawmakers frustrations about debates on early drafts of bills that are likely to significantly change throughout the legislative process. He added that in most cases, he has been able to receive bill drafts from lawmakers on request. To encourage transparency, Waters suggested the possibility of limiting how many bills can be filed during a legislative session to allow more focus on individual bills. Senate Republican Floor Leader Max Wise told the Lantern in an interview last month that around 1,200 bills are filed a session while 200 make it across the finish line. Waters also suggested rank-and-file members should have more time to consider large pieces of legislation, such as the budget bills filed and considered every two years. Transparency is not just the final vote on a bill, Waters said. Transparency is the committee process where the debate takes place, and there have been some improvements made there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokespeople for House and Senate Republican leaders did not immediately return a request for comment for this story. 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. At this point, its a familiar pattern: A terrorist rents a big vehicle and drives it through a crowd. In the 2016 attack in Nice, the rented vehicle was a midsize truck. In a 2017 attack on the Hudson River Greenway, in New York, it was a pickup truck from Home Depot. Later that year on Las Ramblas, in Barcelona, a white moving van. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The twist in the New Years Day attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans: For the first time in a major vehicle attack, the car was electric. Its a grim, perhaps inevitable marker in the rise of the American EV. But it also poses questions about how heavy, quick-accelerating electric vehicles might challenge our infrastructure, from the anti-terror design that now rings so many public buildings and popular gathering spots to the simple bollards that stop customers from backing through the window of the liquor store. We dont yet know why Shamsud-Din Jabbar chose to rent an F-150 Lightning before he began his murderous rampage last week, but he could hardly have picked a more deadly passenger vehicle. With its high bumper, quick acceleration, and 6,000-pound curb weight, the F-150 Lightning is one of a new class of everyday megacars that has alarmed pedestrian safety advocatesand will prompt changes to the way we design our roads and our cities. As Andrew Moseman wrote in Heatmap last week, Its easy to wonder whether this was a deliberate choiceif the perpetrators of what might turn out to be acts of terrorism chose EVs on purpose to cause maximum damage. (The Las Vegas attacker also rented an electric vehicle.) Thats not to say that the attack was deadly because the vehicle was electric; anti-ramming infrastructure is usually built to withstand vehicles of 15,000 pounds in order to stop trucks, explained Michael Dalzell, of the Vancouver-based bollard shop Reliance Foundry. A few thousand extra pounds on a pickup arent going to make or break a properly installed anti-ramming bollard. The problem in New Orleans was that the bollard system was being replaced. Installed in 2018, after a report cited the potential for a copycat of the Nice attack, the citys Matador bollards were supposed to slide in and out along a track so that Bourbon Street could remain open to cars during the day. But, clogged up with Mardi Gras beads, they worked so poorly that by November of last year, the city was already replacing them with a new system. It was supposed to be in place by time the city hosted the Super Bowl, in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was horrific negligence on the part of New Orleansthey failed in every way, not only by letting the truck in, but letting it go for three whole blocks, Rob Reiter, a consultant who designs anti-ramming infrastructure, told me. The attacker was able to avoid the police car stationed on Canal Street by driving on the sidewalk, and the citys mobile anti-vehicle barriers hadnt even been deployed. But most of the infrastructure that stops drivers from hitting people, buildings, and each other is designed to stop accidents, not terrorists. Those bollards, fences, gates, and guardrails are designed with smaller cars in mind. With the proliferation of mega-EVs like the F-150, the Cybertruck, or the electric Hummer, the combination of battery weight, a high center of gravity, and quick acceleration can generate what Reiter calls big impact energy in a short distance. And in fact, reporters at the Times Picayune have shown, those are exactly the kinds of bollards that are currently being installed on Bourbon Street. Theyre designed to stop a small car moving at 10 mphthe kind of system you would typically use to protect a storefront, not the nations most famous festival street. That kind of infrastructure wouldnt have made sense in this context before Jan. 1, and it certainly looks insufficient now. After the 2023 parking garage collapse in New York, for example, there was speculation that the extra weight of EVs might have played a role in undermining the structure. But one structural engineer told me that the greater risk in most facilities is horizontal, not verticalnot that a vehicle would fall through the floor, but that it would shoot through a barrier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre a civil engineer who needs to protect a courthouse from a truck attack, electric or otherwise, youd consult the Department of Defenses 42-page guide to anti-ram vehicle barriers: a list of approved bollards, barriers, and gates that are sufficiently well made (and properly embedded in the ground) to stop anything from a Radio Flyer to a box truck. But many smaller bollards are evaluated to withstand impacts of 5,000-pound vehicles, a number that easily covers most cars and trucks but falls well below the weight of even a Tesla Model X, to say nothing of a big, new EV like a Silverado. At the University of Nebraskas Midwest Roadside Safety Facility, Cody Stolle is the lead investigator of crashing EVs into things: a surprisingly small field of inquiry given the countrys goals for fleet turnover. We havent seen a really great interaction between the EVs weve chosen to test and the infrastructure, he told me. This summer, his team slammed a 7,000-pound Rivian pickup at an angle into a portable concrete barrierthe type that would typically protect a highway work crew. The 5,000-pound barriers were thrown more than 10 feet, twice as far as in similar tests with a 5,000-pound Dodge Quad Cab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stolle compared the rise of EVs with the 1990s, when the popularity of SUVs and pickup trucks compelled a nationwide changing of the guardrail, toward a design known as the Midwest Guardrail System. He says something similar is necessary now, as the average vehicle weight slides upward. But, he added, we dont want people to panic and be afraid. The fact that were aware of these compatibility issues means they can be remedied. Just be careful with that Hummer EV around the wall of the parking garage. CANAJOHARIE, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) New York State Police say a Rome man was killed on Saturday morning on the New York State Thruway, according to a statement released on Monday. Police say that 61-year-old David Bonaparte of Rome was driving westbound on the New York State Thruway at approximately 11:50 am on Saturday. Bonaparte then pulled over onto the northern shoulder of the highway in the village of Canajoharie, approximately 20 miles southeast of Little Falls and approximately 14 miles northeast of Cherry Valley. After stepping out of his car, police say Bonaparte was struck by another vehicle going westbound. Troopers say that the person who struck Bonaparte immediately stopped and called for help. Their identity has not been given at this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bonaparte suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. According to New York State Police, the investigation into the accident is ongoing. This is an ongoing investigation. We will provide more information 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. ROME, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) Police are asking for the publics help in a shots-fired incident in the City of Rome on Monday. Rome Police were called a shots-fired report to the Air City Lofts on Air City Boulevard at approximately 7:45 pm on Monday, January 6. Upon their arrival, police initiated an investigation, which revealed one round was fired inside an apartment. Further investigation found another possible shot fired inside a nearby stairwell. Police say no one was injured as a result of the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police did find one victim on the scene who had sustained injuries during a physical altercation. According to Rome Police, the victims injuries are non-life threatening. However, the victim is uncooperative with the shots-fired investigation. Two males were observed leaving the scene of the incident and getting into a dark-colored four-door sedan. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Rome Police Departments TIP line at 315-339-7744. You may also submit a 100% anonymous tip through the Mohawk Valley Crime Stoppers at their website. You may also call the Crime Stoppers at 1-866-730-8477 or by using their P3 Tips mobile app. This is an ongoing investigation by Rome Police. We will provide more information as it becomes available to us. 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 WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. Jan. 6A 26-year-old man was arrested last week in the shooting death of a 48-year-old man who had been living with him in the Yukon River village of Circle. James Gelvin was pronounced dead at the cabin where the shooting occurred on Jan. 2, according to Alaska State Troopers. Jerek Boyle is facing first-degree murder charges in Gelvin's death. Troopers said they arrested Boyle after traveling to Circle, which is about 160 miles northeast of Fairbanks on the south bank of the Yukon River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boyle's family members told troopers that Gelvin had been acting erratically the day of the shooting and they warned Boyle not to let Gelvin into the cabin, according to a sworn affidavit filed by troopers investigator Matthew Iverson with murder charges. Gelvin was shot through the front door, the affidavit said. One relative said Gelvin had been living in the cabin for about three weeks, and another told troopers Gelvin made threats several hours before the shooting occurred, it said. Boyle chose not to make a statement to troopers, they said. He remained in custody at Fairbanks Correctional Center as of Monday. A judge set his bail at $500,000 cash performance bond and a 10% cash appearance bond of $250,000. ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) Roswell police are asking for help finding a person of interest in a murder. Marco Antonio Munoz was found dead on New Years Day just before 4 a.m. at East Chisum Street and Cahoon Ave. He had been shot multiple times. Hobbs police arrest 2 men in connection to shooting and robbery Police are looking for 35-year-old Christopher Servantez for questioning in the investigation. Hes said to be 5 foot 7 inches tall, with dark hair and brown eyes. Police are also looking for a green and silver Chevy Silverado pickup truck with a New Mexico license plate BHWM37. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to call Roswell police at 575-624-6770. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A cancer diagnosis is one of the most shocking and traumatic things a person can experience (as a breast cancer survivor, I unfortunately know this pain intimately). It affects every aspect of your life, from work obligations to child-raising duties, as you go through often grueling treatment plans. But going through a serious illness like this can also make you think about life differently as well, and that seems to be the case for Kate Middleton. A royal insider revealed that the Princess of Wales has reportedly changed the way she parents her three kids with husband Prince William after her cancer diagnosis, and my heart goes out to her. Middleton, who announced she was diagnosed with cancer in March 2024 is reportedly more focused on her family than ever before. Royal insider Ingrid Seward, who wrote My Mother and I about King Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth II, told Hello! that Middleton is more focused than ever on putting her kids Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, first right now. More from SheKnows SANDRINGHAM, NORFOLK DECEMBER 25: Prince William, Prince of Wales, Prince Louis of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Catherine, Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte of Wales attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church on December 25, 2024 in Sandringham, Norfolk. (Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage) It must have been very difficult for her to deal with her family and her illness at the same time, and she obviously realizes that the children have been through a hard time too, Seward told the outlet. As a mom of three myself, I totally agree with Seward about how hard it is to juggle being sick and raising your kids (and Im not even a royal!). The insider added, I think the illness has made her keen to prioritize her family even more, because they are the future. Obviously, she wants to support her husband and the monarchy, but shes going to make sure that she does it in such a way that it doesnt take her away from the family too much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seward described Prince Williams eventual ascent to the throne as a looming, massive responsibility coming, explaining that Middleton wants to make sure that the family shes bringing up are able to deal with it. She is very embedded in the future now, Seward continued, and the things that are really important in life, like her children and her charity work, really resonate and become even more important. Being so ill teaches you to enjoy each day as it comes, so I think she has a new appreciation of whats going on around her, and what she can do to make life better for other people as well. Its a good reminder for everyone, BTW, not just those who have gone through a cancer diagnosis or other serious illness. In September, Middleton revealed that she finished chemotherapy treatment, sharing a heartwarming video. At the time, she wrote, As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment. The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. As part of the lengthy message, she noted, This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved. Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus. Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life, Middleton added. Its clear this message remained true to her heart, as she ended up sharing a clip from that video for her familys Christmas card this year. Before you go, check out the most heartwarming and relatable photos of the royals being normal parents. Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. By putting 10 United States entities on its Unreliable Entity List and 28 US entities on its Export Control List on Thursday, the first work day of the new year, Beijing is not only responding to the most recent arms sales to Taiwan and the probe into Chinas conventional semiconductor sector that the Joe Biden administration announced late last month, but also reminding the incoming US administration of Chinas resolve to guard its red lines. All of the 10 US companies that China has identified as unreliable have participated in arms sales to Taiwan island and carried out so-called military and technical cooperation with its secessionist-minded authority despite Beijings strong opposition. In doing so, they have violated the one-China principle and the provisions of the three Sino-US joint communiques, and seriously undermined peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Beijings move is thus fully justified as they have sought to undermine Chinas national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Taiwan question is Chinas internal affair, concerns Chinas core interests, and brooks no external interference. The one-China principle is a recognized basic norm of international relations and a universal consensus of the international community. China has therefore always firmly opposed the US selling weapons to the island, which is a breach of the US administrations avowal of not supporting Taiwan independence. The entities added to the Unreliable Entity List are prohibited from engaging in import and export activities related to China or making new investments in the country. Their senior managers are prohibited from entering China, and the work permit, stay or residence qualification of the senior managers of these enterprises in China has been revoked. The decision to sanction the 10 US entities was made in accordance with the Foreign Trade Law, the National Security Law and the Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, according to the statement the Ministry of Commerce of China issued on Thursday when the sanctions came into force. The decision to sanction the other 28 US entities was made in accordance with the Export Control Law and the Regulations on Export Control of Dual-Use Items, with the purpose of safeguarding national interests and fulfilling international obligations such as nuclear nonproliferation, the ministry said in a separate statement issued at the same time. Dual-use items are prohibited from being exported to those on the Export Control List, and exporters must apply to the ministry for approval if there are exceptional circumstances. Although the ministry has not specified the background for the sanctions on the 28 US entities, almost all of them are involved in weapons manufacturing or arms selling that are overtly and covertly related to some key issues that have close bearings on Chinas national security and interests and nuclear proliferation problems in the Asia-Pacific and beyond. The 38 entities are the most US entities China has sanctioned in one go, reflecting how the US under the Biden administration has intensified its challenging of Chinas red lines and core interests while carrying out its China-containment strategy, which is fundamentally flawed as it is based on a false perception of Chinas development. It is important to rise above estrangement and conflict with a broad vision, President Xi Jinping said in his New Year message. But when it comes to Chinas core interests, the space for that rise and vision have been defined clearly. It is to be hoped that the incoming US administration can accurately heed the unspoken part of the New Year message from Beijing and it is perceptive enough to give up any illusion that it can challenge Beijing on relevant issues. [Abriged] Editorial, China Daily A submarine-hunting robot helicopter designed to help the Royal Navy is to be trialled this summer. The autonomous Proteus drone, which has been developed by defence company Leonardo, is meant to be a low-cost jack of all trades. It weighs about three tonnes and will have a modular mission bay slot where a cabin would normally go, so that different payloads can be swapped out easily. This means it could potentially be used for a variety of operations by the Navy, from simple supply runs to more complex anti-submarine warfare missions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, the mission bay would be able to carry and drop sonobuoys used to pick up engine and propeller sounds underwater allowing one or multiple Proteus drones to help triangulate an enemy submarines position. Leonardo said the unmanned aircraft would also have the ability to swap its payload for fuel, adding: The ability to plug in specific payloads for different missions aims to give commanders in the field a wide range of options from a single type of aircraft. This is both operationally useful and delivers value for money by avoiding the need to buy and maintain multiple different fleets of aircraft. The drones would be manufactured in Yeovil, where Wildcat attack helicopters are also made - AS2 Jason Barfield/RAF On Tuesday, the company unveiled the demonstrator design of the aircraft and said it expected a flight test to take place in mid-2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The aircraft will be used to pioneer cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, including the use of 3D printing and new composite materials, as well as autonomous flight software. It comes after the Navy awarded Leonardo a four-year, 60m contract to develop Proteus in 2022. If the design is taken forward, it would be manufactured at the companys site on Yeovil, where the submarine-hunting Merlin and Wildcat attack helicopters are also made. The Navy is seeking to develop flexible, autonomous drones as a cheaper alternative to manned, highly specialised aircraft. It is hoped this will allow more of them to be produced, giving the armed forces low-cost mass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Proteus programme is part of the Navys maritime aviation transformation, which runs to 2040. Leonardo said the test drone would demonstrate the viability of large unmanned aircraft systems in the maritime environment and function as a test bed for the development and demonstration of autonomous capability. 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) Rochester Police have made an arrest and recovered a handgun after a 911 caller reported a man that was almost struck by a vehicle and allegedly pulled out a handgun shortly after. RPD says officers responded to Joseph Avenue near Upper Falls Boulevard around 6:15 p.m. for the report of someone menacing with a handgun. Police say the 911 caller reported a pedestrian who had nearly been struck at the intersection, proceeding to pull out a handgun and point it at the vehicle. Quamere Sykes, age 21, was later found and arrested on North Street in relation to the incident. Police said he was found to be in possession of a handgun loaded with 32 rounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to police, Sykes does not have a New York State pistol permit and is not eligible to have a handgun in NYS. Sykes was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon (2nd and 3rd) and was transported Monroe County Jail, arraigned in Rochester City Court, and released with non-monetary conditions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. For the first time, Shari Franke, former YouTuber and convicted child abuser Ruby Franke's eldest daughter, is telling her story in a new memoir, "The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom." "Sometimes I'll, see myself in the mirror and I'm like, "Oh, my gosh, I look like her,' or 'I sound like her,' but I don't wanna be anything like her," Shari Franke told Eva Pilgrim in an interview about her book that aired Tuesday on "Good Morning America." In the book, Shari Franke, who says she was cut off from the family when she left for college, details alleged abuse she says her mother inflicted throughout her childhood. PHOTO: Shari Franke speaks out about her new memoir in an interview that aired Jan. 7, 2024, on 'Good Morning America.' (ABC News) "When I was younger, around, like, five-six, Ruby was really physical," she told Pilgrim of her childhood. "Whether it was like a slap to the lip or-- a slap to the cheekwhen I would practice the piano, her hand would slam and it was really scary." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ruby Franke rose to fame on YouTube by sharing her family life in Utah, and offering parenting advice, some of it controversial. Ruby Franke was arrested in August 2023 after her 12-year-old son escaped through the window of the home of her mentor Jodi Hildebrandt and ran to a neighbor's house, pleading for food and water, according to authorities. Both Ruby Franke and Hildebrandt pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse in 2023 against two of Ruby Franke's children, but not Shari Franke. Both Ruby Franke and Hildebrandt were sentenced to four consecutive sentences of one to 15 years in prison. PHOTO: Ruby Franke sits in court during her sentencing hearing, Feb. 20, 2024, in St. George, Utah. (Sheldon Demke/St. George News via AP, Pool) Shari Franke, the eldest of Ruby Franke's six children, writes in the book about her mom's relationship with Hildebrandt, described as a Mormon family counselor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Hildebrandt entered their lives, Shari Franke says the nature of the alleged abuse shifted from physical to more psychological. Ruby Franke's daughter speaks out to lawmakers on family vlogging dangers In 2022, Hildebrandt moved into the Franke home, and shortly after, the children's father, Kevin Franke, moved out, according to Shari Franke. "I certainly got weird vibes from Jodi and Ruby," she told Pilgrim, adding that her mom was "secretive" about the relationship with Hildebrandt. "I don't think it's normal at all that a therapist would move in to your client's home ... I was moving out to college, I hadn't even left the house yet, and she is in my room and in my bed." PHOTO: Shari Franke speaks out about her new memoir in an interview that aired Jan. 7, 2024, on 'Good Morning America.' (ABC News) In the book, Shari Franke writes about messages she says she found on Ruby Franke's laptop after their arrests, writing of the messages, "Ruby, expressing her frustration about having to cater to Jodi's needs for physical affection without getting anything in return." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked by Pilgrim whether she thought Ruby Franke and Hildebrandt were more than friends, Shari Franke answered, "I'm not sure." Ruby Franke's husband files for divorce as she faces charges of felony child abuse ABC News reached out to Ruby Franke and Hildebrandt for comment but did not hear back. Prior to the arrest of her mom, Shari Franke said that she reached out to authorities about the abuse multiple times. In a statement to ABC News, the Utah Division of Child and Family Services declined to comment specifically on Shari Franke's claim that she reached out for help but did not receive it, citing privacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Utah Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) works with children and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. DCFS respects that each child and family has a right to privacy and remains firm in our commitment to that privacy for the children and families of Utah," the agency said. "DCFS affirms law enforcement reports of our involvement in the Franke case. However, in order to protect the integrity of the necessary working relationships with those we serve, and to respect the privacy of children and families, DCFS will continue its practice and refrain from sharing specific information on a case, past or present. Utah law requires any person with reason to believe that a child has been subjected to abuse, neglect, or dependency to report it to DCFS or a local law enforcement agency. The 24/7 abuse and neglect hotline is 855-323-3237." Before receiving her sentencing in February, Ruby Franke tearfully read a statement in court, saying, "For the past four years, I've chosen to follow counsel and guidance that has led me into a dark delusion. My distorted version of reality went largely unchecked as I would isolate from anyone who challenged me." "I was led to believe that this world was an evil place filled with cops who control, hospitals that injure, government agencies that brainwash, church leaders who lie and lust, husbands who refuse to protect and children who need abuse," she continued. "Jodi Hildebrandt was never my business partner, nor was I ever employed by her. I have never received wages from her or connections. Jodi was employed as my son's counselor, in 2019 and in 2020, I paid her to be my mentor," Franke said. "It is important to me to demonstrate my remorse and regret without blame. I take full accountability for my choices, and it is my preference that I serve a prison sentence." Shari Franke told Pilgrim she believes her mom cannot "fully comprehend the guilt" of what she pleaded guilty to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think that she's as sorry as she can be," Shari Franke said.. "What she has done is so bad that I don't think her mind allows her to kind of fully comprehend the guilt of all that. And so I think that she probably genuinely believed everything she said. I don't believe it though." Moving forward and advocating for change In the months since her mom's sentencing, Shari Franke told Pilgrim that she has been grappling with the concept of forgiveness. "Forgiveness is something I've had to study a lot and kind of think about what it means," she said. "But for me, forgiveness would look like not letting that consume every moment of my life and all of my thoughts. I am just trying to move on with my life and trust that things are gonna work out the way they're supposed to." As she continues her healing journey, she said she is focused on rebuilding her relationship with her siblings and her father. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin Franke told ABC News in a statement that he is "incredibly proud" of his daughter. I am incredibly proud of Shari for the woman she has become and for her strength. She has played and will continue to play a crucial role in the healing of our family," he said. "I am grateful for her example and learn a lot from her vulnerability and courage. She has a powerful voice and will make a positive impact in this world. I love my daughter. When asked if there was anything she would say to Ruby Franke, Shari Franke told Pilgrim, "Probably tell her I'm happy without you. I was scared of her for so long, and I am here without her approval, and I am just fine." Over the past year, another part of Shari Franke's healing journey has been using her experience to advocate for change. PHOTO: In this screen grab from a video, Shari Franke testifies at the Utah Legislature on Oct. 16, 2024. (Utah State Legislature) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In October, Shari Franke addressed lawmakers in Utah about what she described at the time as the "dangers" of parents monetizing their children online. "When children become stars in their familys online content, they become child influencers," she said in testimony during a Utah Senate committee hearing. "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." In her remarks, Shari Franke called for greater restrictions on family vlogging, especially when children are too young to consent, telling lawmakers, "There is no such thing as a moral or ethical family vlogger." "The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom" is available now. Ruby Franke's daughter Shari speaks out about mom's arrest, says she was abused as a child originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com A courtroom sketch artist said Rudy Giuliani complained to her that a drawing she did of him made him look like a dog. The former Trump lawyers reputation is going to the dogs after he was held in contempt Monday for failing to turn over some assets to election workers he falsely accused of ballot manipulation. He was ordered to pay them $148 million in the defamation case. A judge this week ruled Giuliani had violated a court mandate to cooperate in forking over personal assets to the two Georgia women who were poll workers during the 2020 election. However, the former New York City mayor apparently had smaller matters on his mind during Fridays hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a break, Giuliani asked the artist, Jane Rosenberg, if she would make him look nice after a previous portrait that Giuliani found unflattering, Reuters reported. You made me look like my dog, Giuliani said, according to Rosenberg, who was covering the hearing for Reuters. Rosenberg also sketched a previous court appearance by Giuliani and said in November he was losing it. You can check out some courtroom sketches of Giuliani here and here. Giuliani spent part of his holiday hawking his coffee brand as Santa Claus to perk up his coffers. But now that hes back in court, hes apparently taken on a new role: art critic. Rudy Giuliani speaks to the media outside of Manhattan federal court in New York, on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025. via Associated Press Related... Residents fleeing a wildfire in Pacific Palisades faced a gantlet of danger as roads became choked with traffic and fast-moving flames threatened evacuation routes. When a spot fire erupted off Sunset Boulevard and Palisades Drive, some motorists abandoned their cars by the time the flames reached Pacific Coast Highway around 2 p.m. Fire officials ordered those residents who were unable to flee their neighborhoods to shelter in place as crews battled flames along Sunset Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Pacific Palisades fire explodes to nearly 3,000 acres as thousands of residents flee, homes are lost Ellen Delosh-Bacher was in downtown Los Angeles when she first learned of the fire and rushed to her home, where her 95-year-old mother, her caregiver and their two dogs live. She quickly hit gridlock at Sunset Boulevard and Palisades Drive. Then, fire exploded right behind a Starbucks along the road. Police began running down the road telling anyone stuck in traffic, Run for your lives, said Delosh-Bacher. Read more: Palisades fire: Evacuations, road closures, shelters, schools, forecast Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She abandoned her car, keys still in the ignition and ran the half-mile down to the beach. She stood amid the gray and orange smoke trying to reach her mother. This is like an apocalypse, she said. I live on a ridge. Im going to be pretty screwed if the fire goes up Pali Drive. George Hutchinson, who owns a hair salon called George and Company in Pacific Palisades, was standing on the roof of his apartment at Sunset Boulevard and Temescal Canyon as he followed the fire's movement. Read more: Palisades residents face traffic gridlock, panic as fire blazes through community: 'It looks grim' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hutchinson watched the fire shift down toward the coast and Malibu. "I can see flames up on the hillsides and then it kind of jumped and right now I cant see anything because the smoke is all dark," he said. "The fire is jumping around because its so windy. It's pretty ominous." Hutchinson's residence is in the evacuation zone for the fire and his car is packed and ready to go, but because the traffic was bumper-to-bumper Tuesday afternoon, he decided to wait it out a bit. "It looks horrible," he said. "You can keep seeing houses burn. It jumps and it's crazy. Traffic is gridlock there are three ways in and out of this town and it's all packed. Lots of chaos." 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. BEULAVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) A few intersections in Duplin County will be getting turned into all-way stops in January of 2025. Those areas seeing the change are the intersection of N.C. Highway 41 and Jackson Store Road in Beulaville. Bryce Cox with the North Carolina Department of Transportation said this particular intersection was identified through the Highway Safety Improvement Program. The organization identifies intersections that a four-way stop would be most likely to reduce crashes. An all-way stop is a cost effective and efficient means of improving safety and has been shown to reduce fatalities and severe crashes by 77 percent, Cox said. What will be installed at that intersection particularly for the N.C. 41 approach at Jackson Store Road will be a set of stop signs, as well as, stop ahead warning signs and, as well as, a red flasher on that right shoulder stop sign to draw more attention to this changing traffic pattern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The all-way stop work will also be done starting Monday, Jan. 13, 2025 near Warsaw and Faison as N.C. Highway 50 and N.C. Highway 403 at Warren Road and then near Warren Road and Solomon Street. Drivers should be aware and use caution while crews are at work making these intersections safer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two married couples came under fire in Siversk and Rivne in Donetsk Oblast on 6 January, resulting in one fatality and three casualties. Source: Anastasiia Medvedeva, spokesperson for Donetsk Oblast Prosecutor's Office, quoted by Suspilne Donbas, a Donbas-related branch of the Ukrainian public broadcaster Quote: "At 10:00, Russian forces shelled the city of Siversk with tubed artillery. A local resident, 64, was killed, and his wife, 61, sustained injuries to her legs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 13:20 in Rivne, Pokrovsk district, Russian forces attacked a civilian car with an FPV drone. That car was carrying another married couple. The wife and husband, 61 and 64 respectively, suffered blast injuries and shrapnel wounds. They were sent to hospital." Details: Medvedeva noted that law enforcement officers have launched an investigation into the facts of war crimes (parts 1 and 2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine), namely, violations of the laws and customs of war. Support UP or become our patron! Russia has claimed that its forces captured a battered but strategic town in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region, while the Ukrainian military said it struck a command post during its counterattack in the Russian region of Kursk. After months of intense fighting, Russias Defense Ministry on Monday said its troops had completely liberated Kurakhove, a small industrial town that is a stepping stone to the key city of Pokrovsk and wider southern frontlines. But a Ukrainian official has cast doubt on Russias claims, saying fighting in the town continued on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Kyiv has renewed its offensive in Kursk, where its troops have been holding territory after launching a shock incursion last summer. Ukraines military said on Tuesday that it had conducted a precision strike on a Russian military command post near the town of Belaya. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite both sides being drained after nearly three years of war, frontline fighting has ramped up in recent weeks. With Donald Trump set to return to the White House this month promising to end the war in a day, without saying how Moscow and Kyiv appear to be making an 11th-hour push to gobble up territory and strengthen their negotiating hands ahead of potential peace talks. Kurakhove has been pummeled in recent weeks as Russian troops circle in on Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub that, if lost, would hamper Ukraines ability to hold onto territory in Donetsk. Kurakhove is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Pokrovsk, and is the latest in a string of towns claimed by Russia. Ukraines Khortytsia operational and strategic grouping said their troops were countering Russias attempts to exercise their numerical superiority and develop an offensive. It said Russian troops were fighting in parts of the town. Viktor Tregubov, spokesperson for Khortytsia, said that fighting had continued Tuesday morning in the western part of Kurakhove and near the towns thermal power plant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite reports from Russian forces that the town is under their complete control and captured, we have not confirmed this information, Tregubov told CNN. CNN has been unable to verify the claims independently. Ukrainian military bloggers have shared differing accounts of Russias gains and the success of Ukraines defensive strategy. One blogger, Yuriy Butusov, wrote that Kurakhove has been virtually lost despite heroic efforts by Ukraines forces. He said troops were still defending key industrial areas, including the power plant. Russian state media on Monday said Ukrainian troops had been pushed back from parts of the premises of the power plant, citing sources in Russian security structures, but that fighting was still underway. A lot of work in the industrial zone is still ahead, the sources were quoted as saying. A Ukrainian artillery crew fires towards Russian infantry in Donetsk region, Ukraine, December 24, 2024. - Ivan Antypenko/Suspilne Ukraine/Global Images Ukraine/Getty Images Butusov questioned the wisdom of Ukrainian military commands attempts to defend Kurakhove, saying it risked repeating the same pattern as in Soledar, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Vuhledar cities in eastern Ukraine that eventually fell after weeks or months of resistance to Russias meat-grinder assaults, during which it inflicted huge losses on Moscows troops but sustained high casualties of its own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another blogger, Bohdan Miroshnikov, praised Ukrainian troops for performing miracles in Kurakhove. It costs us a lot, but it prevents the enemy from causing more trouble, the blogger said. Meanwhile, Ukraine is counterattacking in Kursk, despite efforts by Russian and recently deployed North Korean troops to drive Ukrainian units back across the border. Ukrainian forces struck Russian troops in several locations in Kursk over the weekend, with a senior official saying that Russia is getting what it deserves. Ukraines military said Tuesday it had struck Russias 810th Separate Marine Brigade in Belaya, southeast of the part of Kursk occupied by Ukrainian troops. Although Kyivs troops quickly advanced through Kursk in the summer in the first ground invasion of Russia by a foreign power since World War II Russia eventually managed to push the forces back. The lines had been mostly static for weeks before Ukraines latest push. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his daily address Monday, President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian troops were maintaining a buffer zone on Russian territory. 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, he said. He said the Kursk offensive was important in preventing Russian from redirecting its troops to Donetsk and other regions in eastern and southern Ukraine. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Bloomberg) -- Russias seaborne crude exports slumped to the lowest level since August 2023, with the latest dip stretching the loss since an October peak to 540,000 barrels a day. Most Read from Bloomberg The drop in shipments over the two-and-a-half month period has been concentrated at ports in western Russia, and was accentuated by a decline in the number of cargoes leaving Ust-Luga since mid-December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crude flows through the port in the four weeks to Jan. 5 the measure smooths out some of the volatility seen in shorter timeframes were down by 25% from the period to Oct. 20. At least five cargoes appear to have been removed from the loading program in the last ten days of December, according to shipping information seen by Bloomberg. The slowdown has continued into January, with a partial program showing just five shipments in the first ten days. Thats half the number a month earlier.Higher refinery runs reducing the volume of crude available for export are a possible reason for the slump in crude flows. Neither a short-lived unspecified incident at a pump station on the pipeline to Ust-Luga last month, nor a Ukrainian drone attack on the port at the weekend appears to have been significant enough to explain the drop. Some crude may have been diverted to Russias Pacific port of Kozmino, which saw record shipments of 993,000 barrels a day last month. The port was due to receive crude delivered via the Gruzovaya railway station by the end of last year. That could boost flows by 7 million tons a year, or about 140,000 barrels a day. The drop in shipments came after the OPEC+ group of oil producers, which Russia leads alongside Saudi Arabia, delayed for a third time their plan to start adding back some of the supply it has cut in recent years. Moscow will have to wait until at least April to enjoy a rising production target, though that could be postponed again amid expectations of oversupply. Official figures show that Russias crude production in December was slightly below its OPEC+ target. The nation pumped 8.971 million barrels a day of crude last month, virtually unchanged from November, while its target output rose by 30,000 barrels a day with the end of compensation cuts it had pledged the previous month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crude Shipments A total of 27 tankers loaded 20.17 million barrels of Russian crude in the week to Jan. 5, vessel-tracking data and port-agent reports show. The volume was down from 21.51 million barrels on 28 ships the previous week. Daily crude flows in the week to Jan. 5 slumped by about 190,000 barrels to 2.88 million, reversing more than half of the previous weeks gain. The drop was driven by lower flows from the countrys Baltic and Arctic ports. Shipments also remained more than 25% down from their recent high. Less volatile four-week average flows also fell, dropping for a third week to average 2.92 million barrels a day, down by 60,000 from the period to Dec. 29. On that measure, shipments have been on a downward trend since their recent peak in October, falling in eight of the 11 subsequent weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crude shipments in 2024 were about 80,000 barrels a day, or 2.5%, below the average for the whole of the previous year. One cargo of Kazakhstans KEBCO crude was loaded at Ust-Luga on the Baltic Sea and three at Novorossiysk on the Black Sea during the week. Russia terminated its export targets at the end of May, opting instead to restrict production, in line with its partners in the OPEC+ oil producers group. The countrys output target is set at 8.978 million barrels a day until the end of March, after a planned easing of some output cuts was delayed for a third time. Moscow has also pledged to make deeper output cuts between March and September to compensate for pumping above its OPEC+ quota last year, although this schedule could be revised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Export Value The effect on the Kremlins oil income from the drop in flows was largely offset by an increase in the price of Russian crude. That resulted in the gross value of Moscows exports falling by about $20 million to $1.35 billion in the week to Jan. 5. Export values at Baltic and Black Sea ports were up week-on-week by about $2.50 a barrel, while those for key Pacific grade ESPO rose by about $2.70 compared with the previous week. Delivered prices in India were up by about $1.80, all according to numbers from Argus Media. Four-week average income slipped to about $1.33 billion a week, from $1.35 billion in the period to Dec. 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On this basis, the price of Russias shipments from the Baltic and Black Sea in the four weeks to Jan. 5 was down by about $0.80 a barrel from the period to Oct. 27. Prices for key Pacific grade ESPO were lower by about $0.30 a barrel. Flows by Destination Observed shipments to Russias Asian customers, including those showing no final destination, fell to 2.71 million barrels a day in the four weeks to Jan. 5. Thats about 19% below the average level seen during the most recent peak in April. About 1.32 million barrels a day of crude were loaded onto tankers heading to China. The Asian nations seaborne imports are boosted by about 800,000 barrels a day of crude delivered from Russia by pipeline, either directly, or via Kazakhstan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flows on ships signaling destinations in India averaged 1.06 million barrels a day, down from 1.14 million for the period to Dec. 29. The Indian figures, in particular, are likely to rise as the discharge ports become clear for vessels that are not currently showing final destinations. Most of those heading from Russias western ports through the Suez Canal end up in the south Asian nation. The equivalent of about 260,000 barrels a day was on vessels signaling Port Said or Suez in Egypt. Those show up as Unknown Asia until a final destination becomes apparent. The Other Unknown volumes, running at about 80,000 barrels a day in the four weeks to Jan. 5, are those on tankers showing no clear destination. Most originate from Russias western ports and go on to transit the Suez Canal, but some could end up in Turkey. Others may be moved from one vessel to another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russias seaborne crude exports to European countries have ceased, with flows to Bulgaria halted at the end of last year. Moscow also lost about 500,000 barrels a day of pipeline exports to Poland and Germany at the start of 2023, when those countries stopped purchases. Turkey is now the only short-haul market for shipments from Russias western ports, with flows in the 28 days to Jan. 5 up by 30,000 barrels a day to about 210,000 barrels a day from the period to Dec. 29. NOTES This story forms part of a weekly series tracking shipments of crude from Russian export terminals and the gross value of those flows. The next update will be on Tuesday, Jan. 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All figures exclude cargoes identified as Kazakhstans KEBCO grade. Those are shipments made by KazTransoil JSC that transit Russia for export through Novorossiysk and Ust-Luga and are not subject to European Union sanctions or a price cap. The Kazakh barrels are blended with crude of Russian origin to create a uniform export stream. Since Russias invasion of Ukraine, Kazakhstan has rebranded its cargoes to distinguish them from those shipped by Russian companies. Vessel-tracking data are cross-checked against port agent reports as well as flows and ship movements reported by other information providers including Kpler and Vortexa Ltd. If you are reading this story on the Bloomberg terminal, click for a link to a PDF file of four-week average flows from Russia to key destinations. --With assistance from Sherry Su. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Gunmen opened fire on a bus carrying Israelis in the occupied West Bank yesterday, killing at least three people and wounding seven others. Violence has surged in the territory since Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, attack out of Gaza ignited the ongoing war there. The attack occurred in the Palestinian village of Al-Funduq, on one of the main east-west roads crossing the territory. Israels Magen David Adom rescue service said two women in their 60s and a man in his 40s were killed, and the military said it was looking for the attackers. Palestinians have carried out scores of shooting, stabbing and car-ramming attacks against Israelis in recent years. 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. 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. As Russias full-scale war against Ukraine nears its fourth year, a worsening battlefield situation and the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency signal that the war could soon be entering a volatile and unpredictable endgame. In anticipation of a potential Trump-negotiated ceasefire, Kyiv is looking to its partners to help put Ukraine in the best possible position, but it still remains unclear whether or not European countries will be ready to take braver steps. With fresh memory of Russian occupation under the Soviet Union, the Baltic States have traditionally spoken with the most clarity on Russias war against Ukraine among NATO countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consistently one of the top providers of military aid to Ukraine as a percentage of GDP, Latvia has entrenched the provision of at least 0.25% worth of its GDP to Ukraine in its state budget through 2026, and was also a founding member of the drone coalition. The Kyiv Independent spoke to Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze in Riga. 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: How have you watched this year from here, from Latvia, from just across the border with Russia, and how decisive could these next few months be? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baiba Braze: It has been a year of decisions. It has been a year of our priorities, which were very clear: making sure that all the NATO countries on Russia's borders are safe and secure, and making sure that Ukraine is supported. For us, it's not about for as long as it takes, but actually looking at Ukraine's victory, which is to be defined by Ukraine, not by others. And, of course, limiting Russia's ability to gain military capabilities, constraining Russia politically and internationally. "For us, it's not about for as long as it takes, but actually looking at Ukraine's victory, which is to be defined by Ukraine, not by others." In all three priorities, we have done a lot and achieved quite a bit of progress. The allies' presence here in the Baltic states has strengthened. Sweden joined NATO, following Finland last year, so that also has meant a lot in terms of regional plans, defense plans. In terms of capabilities, we have provided what we could to Ukraine ourselves and we have really encouraged and worked with the others to do maximum. We have worked internationally to ensure that there is a lot of support for Ukraine. We have provided support for energy infrastructure. As for Russia, obviously, it moved to the war economy much faster because it's an autocratic state. So they don't have to take into account what other countries think, what the population thinks, or what various interest groups think. They literally just throw thousands of people per day to death and there is very little accountability for that in Russia. Sanctions on our side have quite clearly meant that the Russian economy is really not doing well by all accounts. We can see that in data and analysis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What they are doing is pillaging the civilian economy, taking out from the civilian side of the economy everything that they need for the military and then they are trying to avoid the sanctions that have been imposed not only by the EU but also America, U.K., and other countries in the world. Read also: Russia buys acceptance with cash, plunging economy into uncertainty In Latvia, we created a system where it's very difficult to avoid sanctions. We are responsible not only for the exports of our capabilities but also for making sure that it doesn't go to third countries that could then re-export to Russia. Other countries in the EU have to do the same. All the exports have to be checked and there has to be a due diligence system for sanctions making sure that their exports don't reach countries in Central Asia and then go to Russia. That has not yet happened. That is, I think, for the next year, a very important objective to make sure that all the EU countries, all European countries have a due diligence system on sanctions in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plus, maintaining the pressure on the Russian economy, supplying Ukraine, and making sure that NATO is strong and united. Members of the Polish Armed Forces hold NATO flags during a rehearsal in Warsaw, Poland, on Aug. 11, 2024. (Aleksander Kalka/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Working with the new U.S. administration is crucially important. But, on the battlefield, Ukraine is heroic. We speak to various institutions in Ukraine and I think it's crucially important to hold together and maintain this winter. For Russia, it's just getting more difficult. That's why they're so desperately trying to take some villages now. And, from the Nordic-Baltic side, we will continue supplying what we can, what we have, and we will encourage others to do that. I think that nobody wants Ukraine to be left alone in terms of aid or support. There's solidarity, there's everything. So, just be strong and know that you have so many friends and allies. That also concerns the wider future of Ukraine. You want to be in the EU and NATO. That is, of course, a guiding star for everything that Ukrainians do for the internal reforms, such as anti-corruption, and justice, which is as important. Because, in the end, Ukrainian people want peace, stability, security, prosperity, just like everybody else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kyiv Independent: Since the U.S. elections, the topic of peace negotiations has come up more and more recently, and President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Ukraine would be ready to end the fighting from their side without liberating all of its sovereign territory in exchange for NATO membership. Does Latvia share this opinion, is that the line that is taken in international discussions, or do you think there could be another alternative for a hard deterrence? Baiba Braze: The future of Ukraine's membership in NATO is decided. There was a political decision, both in 2008 and at last year's Washington summit, that Ukraine's future in NATO is something that is not negotiable. But on the other hand, of course, with a war ongoing, what does it mean then to have security guarantees? "Ukraine's future in NATO is something that is not negotiable." What does it mean to be a member of NATO? Currently, NATO is not ready to enter the war, because the clear concept is that Ukraine's self-defense is supported, everybody supports it and provides what is necessary, but nobody wants to be part of the war, fighting the war. That's why theres a question of the borders, which borders, if the ceasefire applies or if there is a sort of stop in hostilities, then the questions about security guarantees or Article 5. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of these concepts are abstract, and I don't think people will be ready to discuss that much in public. I agree with President Zelensky that NATO membership is the best way for Ukraine, we support it, but I don't think it's an exchange for ceasefire or exchange for peace talks versus NATO membership. Read also: Putin is afraid of Trumps administration Estonian foreign minister on potential Russia-Ukraine negotiations The Kyiv Independent: Do you think it's possible in the near term to reach this unified understanding that peace must come with a secure Ukraine, or can it be solved afterward? Baiba Braze: The understanding is there because nobody wants some ceasefire which just lets Russia reconstitute and then start more of the war. That's in nobody's interest. But the stronger Ukraine is on the battlefield, the stronger the position at the negotiation table. So that is a primary precondition of successful negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will also be very difficult if there is some type of settlement because we know from our experience that getting Russian troops out is very difficult. Nobody will recognize occupied territories as Russian. International law and Ukrainian international borders are what they are. It was the same with the Baltic states. We were occupied by the Soviets for 50 years, but neither the U.S. nor other Western countries recognized the occupation. We restored our independence, even though many people were saying, Oh, that's not possible, that's not going to happen, how can you think of a full regaining of independence? An aerial view of the graves of Ukrainian soldiers who died during the Ukraine-Russia War in the 18th cemetery in Kharkiv, Ukraine on May 21, 2024. (Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images) Primarily, we as people whether it's Latvians, Estonians or Lithuanians know what we want. We make our choices, and Ukraine is the same. Ukraine knows what it wants, and it makes its choices. And yes, fighting for the freedom and for the future, which is the future of a free country, is very difficult, and the losses and the situation on the battlefield are very difficult, but it's worth fighting for, in my view. The Kyiv Independent: Despite Russias problems, Moscow keeps saying that they are against a freezing of the conflict under any circumstances. Maybe they see some kind of victory in their sights. How do you interpret that? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baiba Braze: I think it's, on one hand, delusional, ignoring the reality of the economy, of the real situation in Russia, and thinking that they can maintain this. On the other hand, it also shows their conviction that they have to take as much territory as soon as possible because that will make their position stronger. That's why we need to make sure that you are as strong as necessary, fighting for Ukraine's future, and showing the Russians that Ukrainians are not going to give up the fight. All those elements are as important, and of course, a very clear stance by the U.S. and by the Europeans and other powers in the world on saying that support for Ukraine will continue. Everybody has said that. And that is a powerful message and stance to the Kremlin that you might think that by taking a few villages you are winning, but your economy and the situation within Russia are showing something different, and Ukraine will continue to be supported. But again, the will of the Ukrainian people is the first precondition. It's crucially important to continue showing that there is a will to fight, to be free, to become members of the EU and NATO because nobody else is going to do that for you. Others will support it, but it's a Ukrainian fight. The Kyiv Independent: When it comes to establishing a real hard deterrence against a repeat invasion, if it's not NATO membership itself, more and more people have been talking about so-called boots on the ground, a physical presence of troops from NATO countries or even non-NATO partners inside Ukraine. Do you think that physical presence is required? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baiba Braze: I cannot discuss what is being discussed in classified conversations it would be highly irresponsible of me. Latvia hasn't made any decisions because it's not a decision-making time. If there is at some moment the ceasefire or the settlement that Ukraine is satisfied with, that there is a very clear understanding of how to enforce it, together with allies, I would imagine Latvia is not going to say no. But again, I don't have a mandate to say that currently because we are not there yet. So that would be highly irresponsible to sort of suggest something. But the sort of very strong message that we transmit to everyone and that we as Nordic-Baltic countries discuss and stand for is Ukraine first, that Ukraine's strength, Ukraine's supply is a battle. The political support, the future in the EU and NATO is something that we are devoting all that we can to in terms of political support, money, and resources. But without Ukraine's leadership, without Ukraine's will, without Ukraine's standing for itself, nobody is going to replace that. So that is the first sort of leading light that we all look up to. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian attacks across Ukraine killed at least three civilians and injured at least 23 over the past day, regional authorities reported on Jan. 7. Russia launched 38 Shahed-type attack drones and various dummy drones against Ukraine overnight, the Air Force reported. Twenty-eight drones were shot down, and 10 were lost in the airspace, according to the statement. In Donetsk Oblast, one person was killed and another injured during a Russian attack against the town of Siversk, Governor Vadym Filashkin reported. Two civilians were also injured in Rivne in the Pokrovsk district and one in Rodynske, according to the governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 61-year-old woman was injured during a Russian attack against the village of Zolochiv in Kharkiv Oblast, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. In Kherson Oblast, two people were killed and 17 injured in Russian attacks, said the regional governor, Oleksandr Prokudin. This included a 50-year-old man killed and at least five women aged between 30 and 58 injured when a Russian drone dropped explosives on a bus in Kherson. One civilian suffered injuries during a Russian rocket attack against the Bilopillia community in Sumy Oblast, the regional military administration reported. 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. Moscow Patriarch Kirill accused the West of "hating" Russia because it represents "an alternative path of civilizational development." He made the comments during the celebration of the Christmas Mass on Jan. 7. Patriarch Kirill (born Vladimir Gundyayev) has been a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, praising his rule as a "gift from God" and publicly supporting the war against Ukraine, subsequently straining relations with other Orthodox churches. "We are hated (by the West) because we offer a different path, an alternative path of civilizational development," the head of the Russian Orthodox Church told the faithful during his sermon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Orthodox Christians in Russia celebrate Christmas on Jan. 7 in accordance with the Julian calendar. In 2023, Ukraine signed a law moving the day of Christmas celebrations to Dec. 25, similar to Western Christianity. During the mass, Kirill blessed icons and crosses that were engraved with Putin's initials and will be sent to Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told the Russian media. "Physically, they cannot really smother us, though they try through different types of slander and the creation of blocs of some sort intended to weaken Russia," Kirill said, according to Reuters. The Russian religious leader often bashes the West for what he presents as "moral decadence," primarily attacking LGBTQ rights that are increasingly suppressed in Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine placed Kirill on its wanted list in December 2023 after accusing him of infringing on Ukraine's territorial integrity resulting in "the death of people or other serious consequences." The charge carries a punishment of life imprisonment. Last August, the Ukrainian parliament passed a bill banning activities of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, which has been linked to the Russian church, and many of its members have been accused of collaboration or sympathies with Russia. Most Ukrainian Orthodox Christians adhere to a separate and autonomous Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Read also: Cutting ties with Moscow What Ukraines church bill really means Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russia keeps on advancing in eastern Donetsk Oblast, taking hold of Kurakhove, which would become the first major town to fall into Russian hands in 2025. Russian troops are continuing to push on the Lyman, Siversk, Kramatorsk, Toretsk, Pokrovsk and Kurakhove axes, Ukraine's General Staff said in its latest update. Pokrovsk and Kurakhove remain the focal points of the Russian eastern offensive, now in its fifth month. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Jan. 6 that due to Ukraine's ongoing Kursk incursion, where a potential small-scale Ukrainian offensive is taking place, Russia is unable "to direct all its strength" to other embattled areas, including Donetsk Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet, reports indicate that Russian troops are advancing inch by inch in an effort to capture the entire region, with little to no signs that Moscow is to slow down in the immediate future. Read also: As Russians inch closer to Pokrovsk, civilians in the area are left with a choice stay under fire or leave life behind Battle for Kurakhove The active phase of the battle for Kurakhove, once home to more than 18,000 people, has been ongoing since October, and the steady Russian advance in the area suggests its imminent loss. The fall of Vuhledar on Oct. 2 and the subsequent loss of Selydove on Oct. 29 meant that Kurakhove, a town squeezed in between, would turn into Russia's next main target. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian troops entered the town in late November, and the Russian Defense Ministry claimed the full capture of Kurakhove on Jan. 6. Ukraine's military did not confirm. View by drone of the bombed-out town of the town of Vuhledar, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine on Aug. 22, 2024. (Gaelle Girbes/Getty Images) Ukrainian Marine Corps soldiers transfer personnel to a British Mastiff infantry fighting vehicle on the Kurakhove front line, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on Dec. 28, 2024. (Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images) Speaking on national television, Victor Tregubov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Khortytsia group of forces, said that as of Jan. 7, weeks-long urban fighting in Kurakhove is still ongoing. "There is no question of full Russian control over the town," he said. "When the town is completely destroyed, there is simply no place to hold the defense because there are actually no fortifications," the spokesperson said, adding that the situation is very difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When the town is completely destroyed, there is simply no place to hold the defense because there are actually no fortifications." According to unconfirmed reports, Ukrainian troops still maintain a presence just outside the town, near the destroyed thermal power plant. Ukraine rarely admits withdrawal or loss of a settlement, preferring to say that it is contested, even when it is not. There's no evidence that Ukraine has the means to retake the town in the near future. "The town has not been strategically very important, as singular towns usually aren't. They may, however, have operational or tactical relevance, and in this case, for continuing the attack in this direction, capturing Kurakhove was necessary for Russia," Emil Kastehelmi, an analyst at the Finland-based Black Bird Group, told the Kyiv Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kurakhove bulge has stretched Ukrainian defenses, and gradually retreating towards the village of Ulaky, 10 kilometers west of Kurakhove, would shorten the front line "significantly," according to Kastehelmi. The highway connecting Zaporizhzhia and occupied Donetsk passes through the two settlements and serves as a major logistics chain for Ukrainian troops in and around Kurakhove. "In this case, the Ukrainians can decide to give up some ground in exchange for a tighter defense, which could be useful in this case," he said. "Holding onto the fields around Kurakhove for the sake of holding some ground isn't always the best idea." Read also: Ukraine struck hundreds of targets deep inside Russia in 2024. What did they achieve? Ongoing battles for Pokrovsk, Toretsk Meanwhile, Russian troops continue to approach Pokrovsk further northwest, gaining ground in the neighboring settlements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the DeepState crowdsourced map, Russian troops occupied Dachenske, Novyi Trud, Vovkove, Shevchenko, and Ivanivka east, south, and southwest of Pokrovsk. This would put Russian troops within a few kilometers of the city's outskirts from three sides. Ukraine still controls the main road leading to the city. The Ukrainian military has not confirmed the loss of these settlements. They cannot be independently verified at this time. Recruits of the 37th Marine Brigade attend a shooting range during an additional training course in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on Dec. 24, 2024. (Ivan Antypenko/Suspilne Ukraine/JSC "UA:PBC"/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Local workers replace broken windows with chipboard after massive shelling from Multiple Launch Rocket Systems in Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on Dec. 27, 2024. (Kostiantyn Liberov/Libkos/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Trehubov, Russia is trying to encircle Pokrovsk, the last major settlement in the southwestern part of Donetsk Oblast. Ongoing Russian troop movements are also reported in Toretsk, which experienced a lull in active Russian advancement for a few months. In late December, the Ukrainian military said that Russia started using additional military equipment near the town. "We didn't see this before, but now the enemy has become more active," said Anastasia Bobovnikova, a spokesperson of the Operational Tactical Group Luhansk. Moscow's troops were conducting assaults all over Toretsk as of Jan. 6, the DeepState claimed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fighting is ongoing inside the city. Read also: Vladimir Putins 25-year-long reign over Russia in photos Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian forces attacked a civilian car with a drone in the village of Naddniprianske, Kherson Oblast, killing a 62-year-old man. Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration Quote: "A 62-year-old man sustained fatal injuries as a result of explosives being dropped on his vehicle." Details: Prokudin expressed his condolences to the mans family. Support UP or become our patron! A Russian attack submarine that was stationed in Syria has officially left the Mediterranean Sea. The departure of the Kilo-class Novorossiysk leaves Russia without any known submarines in the region. The uncertain fate of Russia's naval presence in Syria amid other setbacks could spell trouble for its submarine force. Strategic Russian naval bases have been upended by conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, creating headaches for the Kremlin's navy, including its submarine force. Moscow no longer appears to have any attack submarines in the Mediterranean Sea after NATO forces spotted its last known submarine leaving the region last week. Portugal's military said that it observed a Russian Kilo-class submarine moving through the country's continental exclusive economic zone near northern Spain on Friday. NATO Maritime Command later identified the vessel as the Novorossiysk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Novorossiysk was spotted several weeks earlier at Tartus, a naval base in Syria that Russia had used for years. The future of Moscow's military footprint at the facility and in the country in general was, however, thrown into uncertainty after the shocking collapse of the Assad regime last month. There are indications that Russia is drawing down forces at its bases in Syria. Losing Tartus for good would be a significant blow to Moscow's navy including its capable submarine force which relies on the warm-water port to project power across the region and beyond. Early December satellite imagery showed the Novorossiysk docked in Tartus, but by the middle of the month, it was gone, along with the rest of the Russian warships that had been there. Some of the Russian naval vessels have been spotted in recent weeks loitering off the Syrian coast, but the whereabouts of this submarine were less certain. Russian crew members board the Novorossiysk in Saint Petersburg in August 2014. OLGA MALTSEVA/AFP via Getty Images Should Syria's new leadership decide Russia can no longer station its forces at Tartus, it would mark another setback for Moscow's navy, which has suffered a string of stunning losses in the nearby Black Sea since the start of the full-scale Ukraine war nearly three years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian forces have used missiles and naval drones to damage or destroy dozens of Russian naval vessels, including one of six improved Kilo-class submarines Moscow's Black Sea Fleet operates, during the conflict. These attacks have forced Moscow to withdraw the Black Sea Fleet from its long-held headquarters in Sevastopol, a major city in the southwestern corner of the occupied Crimean peninsula, across the region to the port of Novorossiysk along western Russia's coast. If Russia is unable to move back into Sevastopol, that creates complications. For Russia, losing the ability to keep submarines at Sevastopol and Tartus is less than ideal. Bryan Clark, a former US Navy officer and defense analyst at the Hudson Institute, said that the remainder of the Kilo-class vessels are based in St. Petersburg, where there is a large naval facility and dry docks for maintenance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Russians are now having to redeploy their submarine force back up to the north" instead of relying on warm-water ports that "you could get in and out of them year-round," Clark told Business Insider. "St. Petersburg, you can't get in and out of year-round." An overview of the naval facility at Tartus on January 6. Satellite image 2025 Maxar Technologies. Recent developments also seriously undermine Russia's military influence in the Mediterranean and southern Europe, Clark said. The Novorossiysk is a newer improved Kilo sub. Submarines of this class are diesel-electric vessels and formidable long-range strike platforms that can attack ships and land targets, deploy for weeks on end, and stay relatively undetected. They are effectively Russia's most capable non-nuclear subs and can carry Kalibr missiles. Russia has kept a Kilo-class vessel in the region for years. The boat's departure from the region, though Russia could ultimately opt to move another sub into the area later, may signal a broader decline in Russian naval might in the Mediterranean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In four years, Russia appears to have gone "from being a pretty big player in the Med in terms of naval forces to now being a nonexistent player," Clark said. Russia's basing challenges could ultimately hinder its ability to project power. The uncertainty with Tartus and nearby Hmeimim Air Base underscores a broader issue for the Russian military. Satellite imagery captured on Monday by Maxar Technologies, a commercial imaging company, shows no obvious signs of any major Russian naval vessels at Tartus, as has been the case for weeks. Ukraine's military intelligence agency has said Russia is withdrawing from the base. Whether Moscow is able to negotiate an arrangement with the new Syrian leadership to stay in the country or is forced to relocate to a new hub in North Africa to sustain its operations remains to be seen. Read the original article on Business Insider (Reuters) - The patriarch of Russia's Orthodox Church, celebrating Christmas alongside Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, said on Tuesday that the Western world despised Russia and its "alternative path of civilised development". Orthodox Christians in Russia celebrate Christmas on Jan. 7, according to the Julian calendar Patriarch Kirill, an enthusiastic backer of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, blessed icons and crosses that were to be engraved with the president's initials and sent to servicemen in the 34-month-old war in Ukraine, Russian news agencies quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia presents a challenge to powerful countries not because of its nuclear capabilities or strength, Kirill said, according to the news agencies. "They hate us because we are offering a different, alternative path of civilised development," he said at Christ the Saviour cathedral, which was rebuilt on the site of a swimming pool in the 1990s after Soviet dictator Josef Stalin levelled it in the 1930s. The West was in moral collapse, he said, but Russia showed the world how to blend science, culture, education and faith. "Physically, they cannot really smother us, though they try through different types of slander and the creation of blocs of some sort intended to weaken Russia," he said. "Nothing will work because God is with us." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has looked to the church for support in Ukraine and denounced what he sees as a decline in Western morals, including the movement to protect gay and transgender rights. In his Christmas message, the Russian president praised the church for "strengthening the institution of the family, the upbringing of young people and the affirmation of moral ideals". Before the cathedral ritual, Putin attended the church of St. George the Victorious with veterans of the Ukraine conflict, at Moscow's Poklonnaya Hill war memorial complex. Ukraine, which has had its own independent church since 2018, has moved its Christmas celebration to Dec. 25, though a minority has maintained allegiance to a church with historic links to Moscow. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Illustration by Stephen Kelly / Getty Images Maybe you've heard of the "hybrid war" Russian-sponsored attacks on European infrastructure, apparently designed to undermine support for Ukraine. Now the maritime equivalent is emerging: the "shadow fleet." Finnish officials say a "Russia-affiliated vessel" named the Eagle S appears to have cut an undersea power line that runs between Finland and Estonia, said NPR . The tanker is suspected of being part of the shadow fleet, an armada of ships of "uncertain ownership" that has been used to help Russia evade oil sanctions. The Eagle S is registered in the Cook Islands but had "set off from Russia" the day before the line was severed. Russia is "stepping up pressure against the West," said Janne Riihelainen, a Finnish national security columnist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shadow fleet "threatens security and the environment, while funding Russia's war budget ," Kaja Kallas, chief of foreign policy for the European Union, said to Politico . Four telecom cables between Finland and Estonia, and Finland and Germany were also damaged. In response, Finnish authorities have seized the Eagle S, while Estonian officials said they were stepping up naval patrols. NATO will also "enhance its military presence in the Baltic Sea," Secretary General Mark Rutte said in a social media post. What is the shadow fleet? After Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Ukraine's Western allies imposed a price cap on Russian oil exports "aimed at limiting and controlling Russian revenues," Sergey Vakulenko said at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace . Russia countered by using hundreds of aging off-the-books tankers owned "outside of the Western coalition." Ship owners busted for evading sanctions can be forced to "scrap the vessel," Vakulenko said. So it makes sense to use old tankers "with low residual value in order to limit the potential losses." The fleet is designed to keep Russia's oil income flowing, but the idea of using it to "cause havoc may be proving irresistible to the Kremlin," Michael Schwirtz said at The New York Times . The Eagle S incident would be a "clear escalation by Russia in its conflict with the West." But it would be a natural extension of the low-level conflict taking place across Europe. Russia is "systematically conducting hybrid warfare against its neighboring NATO/EU countries," Estonian interior minister Lauri Laanemets said to the Times. Can the fleet be stopped? The shadow fleet is a "vexing challenge," said Elisabeth Braw at the Atlantic Council . The longer it operates and the larger it grows, the more it threatens the "functioning of the global maritime order." One option: Governments of seagoing nations should establish a "monitoring hub" to identify and monitor shadow fleet ships. The most heinous crimes in Fresno fell in 2024 from the previous year, according to figures presented Monday by the police department, matching recent national trends. The eight violent crimes tracked by the FBI were particularly high in 2020 amid civil unrest and the Coronavirus pandemic, and have trended down each year since. In Fresno, there were 30 intentional homicides in 2024, down from 35 the previous year. It was also a significant fall from the gruesome high of 74 in each of 2021 and 2020, according to Fresno Police Department figures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is a 14% decrease in Fresno in murder cases, which was on pace with the national decrease of 15.6%. Police said they solved almost as many murder cases as were added to the tally this year with a clearance rate of 97%, according to interim Police Chief Mindy Casto. None of this happens by accident. Its a lot of hard work, she said. Rapes fell by 16.6% last year and robberies were down by 1.6%, police said. Both commercial (21.2% decline) and residential (11.9%) burglaries also fell. All of those crimes have also declined nationally. There were 221 shootings in 2024 in Fresno, a 38.4% decrease from the previous year. Those numbers are more than the 107 people who were shot, and includes cars, buildings and times people were fired upon but not struck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were more than three times as many shootings in 2020. Mayor Jerry Dyer touted the statistics. The message to the people who live in the city of Fresno or shop here or work here is very simple, and that is Fresno is a much safer place today than it was in 2021 and over the last three years, he said. The Fresno Police Department employs 861 police officers and has a budget for 926, police said. Both Dyer and Casto attribute the declines to adding officers to the department. There were around 650 officers in the department back in 2021. Scholarly research does not necessarily agree with that take. Some studies find no correlation between police spending and a decrease in violent crime, and Fresnos declining rates mirror national trends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though there remains a stubborn perception problem. The latest Gallup poll says 64% of Americans who answered said they believed crime was higher in the nation than the previous year. The numbers say they are wrong. Murder cases were down 15 percent in 63 cities of 250,000 or larger, according to nationally recognized analyst and independent criminologist Jeff Asher, who analyzed public data. The nations reported violent and property crimes were likely among the lowest rates recorded since the 1960s and 1970s, his analysis says. Intelligent people can (and will) disagree about the causes of and preferred policy solutions to these issues, but there should be little doubt about the overall direction of major crime in America in 2024, he wrote. North Korea yesterday fired a ballistic missile that flew 1,100 kilometers 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. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The Salvation Army is set to open its newest overnight shelters in Old Town Portland on Tuesday. A day before its opening, KOIN 6 News got a tour of the Salvation Army Female Emergency Shelter (SAFES), which will feature 52 beds at the location on SW Second Avenue. Another 148 beds will be available overnight at the Moore Street Center in North Portland. Legacy nurses at 3 Oregon hospitals announce intent to unionize Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sites will have showers, light food, and basic services for women as they seek permanent shelter. The $750,000 in funding comes from the City of Portland and Multnomah County as part of Portland Mayor Keith Wilsons and County Chair Jessica Vega Pedersons winter shelter plan. Man accused of kidnapping, sexually assaulting woman after helping her carry groceries home This shelter is for women at risk. Those who are homeless or living on the streets currently or in unsheltered places not meant for human habitation, Justin Moshkowski with The Salvation Army said. Anybody who is female identifying is welcome. We accept and welcome everybody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initial operating period is for 90 days, and the total of 200 beds will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The shelters will be open for twelve hours a night, starting at 7 p.m., but they will pivot to 24-hour shelters during severe weather emergencies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) San Diegans are bracing for potential public safety power shutoffs Tuesday as a new, far-reaching round of strong Santa Ana winds are expected to develop, setting the stage for potentially critical fire danger in the county. San Diego Gas & Electric says it could begin cutting power in high-risk areas as early as noon and last until early Friday evening. A Red Flag Warning signaling conditions ideal for rapid fire spread is set to go into effect at 4 a.m. on Wednesday. More than 64,000 customers in San Diegos backcountry and exurbs were alerted to potential service disruptions over the weekend nearly a month after the last round of public safety power shutoffs during risky fire conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is a Red Flag Warning and why is it important? Public safety power shutoff map as of Jan. 6, 2024. (San Diego Gas & Electric) Similarly with the last event, wind speeds are anticipated to reach speeds between 25 to 35 miles per hour with individual gusts hitting up to 55 miles per hour. However, since then, fuels for wildfires have continued to dry out, given an absence of any significant rainfall. These winds are also expected to be more widespread and impact areas that typically arent wind-prone. High Wind Warnings were extended Tuesday to include San Diego coastal areas like Oceanside, Del Mar, La Jolla and Imperial Beach, signifying the intensity of this windstorm. These places, as well as the inland valleys and mountains, should expect winds 30 to 40 miles per hour with gusts to 65 miles per hour Tuesday afternoon from 4 p.m. Tuesday through Wednesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In mountain communities, isolated gusts of up to 75 miles per hour are possible until 6 p.m. Wednesday. It is also going to be colder than the previous Santa Ana event, with air originating from Canada. Wednesday morning temperatures will be quite chilly with beaches starting the day in the low to mid-40s, upper 30s for inland valleys, mid-20s for the mountains and mid-30s for the deserts. Northerly winds have already picked up in Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange and San Bernardino Counties early Tuesday with the strongest winds expected late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning for San Diego County. These winds have already sparked at least one major wildfire as of 12:45 p.m. Tuesday, a 200-acre scorcher in Los Angeles mountainous Pacific Palisades area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should this pattern of minimal precipitation and high winds hold, fire officials say this bout of Santa Anas could serve as a sign of what might be in store for the rest of the year. We truly are in a fire year, Cal Fire San Diego Captain Mike Cornette said. Years in the past where we havent had any rain, weve had wind and dry conditions and weve had large fires almost every month in this county. Fire officials encourage people regardless of whether they are in a high-risk area to monitor conditions and emergency notifications for situational awareness. They also urge people to be proactive in the event a wildfire sparks nearby by alerting fire officials and getting to safety. Can San Diegans who lost power get reimbursed for spoiled groceries? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community resource centers will become available if any shutoffs are carried out to give those impacted access to electricity to charge phones and other devices, such as medical tools. The centers also have Wi-Fi connectivity, water, ice and snacks, among other resources. A map of community resource centers will become available on SDG&Es website as soon as they are launched. San Diegans are similarly advised to prepare for the possibility of any outages both precautionary and unplanned and generally unsafe conditions with the onset of this Santa Ana wind event Tuesday afternoon. This includes avoiding driving through areas with strong winds, especially those with high profile vehicles, and taking steps to secure loose outdoor items that could interact with power lines in the event they are blown away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates. FOX 5/KUSIs Megan Healy and Tony Shin 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) A San Francisco social worker who helps residents at a supportive housing complex in the SoMa neighborhood was shot in the face by one woman who lives there, investigators said. Dan-iel Drakes was one of two victims who were shot at Tahanan, located at 833 Bryant Street, on January 2, family members told KRON4. The Tahanan housing complex is managed by a nonprofit, Mercy Housing, and is home to residents who were formerly homeless. Drakes, 37, is employed by Episcopal Community Services and she was reportedly working when she was shot. The shooter was identified by prosecutors as Monique Davis, 49. She is a convicted felon who was out of custody on bail at the time of the Tahanan shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Episcopal Community Services director told KRON4 in a statement, Our thoughts and prayers go out to the ECS and Mercy staff who were grievously injured by this senseless act of violence. ECS will do everything in our power to support the victims, their families, our staff, and our residents as we navigate these challenging circumstances. ECS top priority is the safety and well-being of all residents and staff at the Tahanan. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement to support the investigation and extend our deepest gratitude to SFPD for their prompt response. At this time, we ask for respect and privacy for all those involved during this difficult period. On the morning of January 2, Davis entered an elevator in the supportive housing complex and began punching someone inside the elevator, according to the District Attorneys Office. Davis then retrieved a pistol from her room, went down to the lobby area, and fired several shots, prosecutors said. One of the bullets pierced through Drakes face, and another victim was shot in the arm. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins described the violence as tragic and senseless. San Francisco Police Department officers quickly arrested Davis when they found her on the corner of Hyde and Eddy streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis made her first court appearance in the Hall of Justice on Monday. She is charged with attempted murder, assault with a firearm, and committing a crime while out on bail. The Tahanan is located directly across the street from the Hall of Justice. Its website states that it is a brand new development of permanent supportive housing for adults who have experienced homelessness. It contains 145 apartments. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 7San Joaquin County Supervisor Paul Canepa this week said he uses the words "collaboration," "cooperation" and "partnerships" on a daily basis when discussing the importance of local government. The central Stockton representative, now in his second year as a supervisor, said he hopes those three words will help define his tenure as board chair in 2025. Canepa was unanimously chosen to lead the board during a special reorganizational meeting Monday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "During my time on the Lincoln Unified School District board and Stockton City Council, I always worked to be a team player and builder," he said. "I want to bring that same spirit to this new role, and strengthen partnerships with our eight amazing cities. I want to work with nonprofits and community-based organizations to tackle the problems we face." Elected to serve the board's second district in 2022, Canepa sat on the dais as vice chairman last year. He succeeds Miguel Villapudua as chair. Villapudua served the first district and termed out in November after eight years on the board. The founder of Canepa's Carwash, the sophomore supervisor said being on the board is the best job he has ever had. He added that he looks forward to getting to know his fellow supervisors better as chairman, and working to make the county better for its residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The biggest thing is being patient and working with one another," he said. "I know there's a lot of differences, a lot of different people, a lot of egos. If we could put the egos aside and try to get to a common goal, that would be deeply appreciated." The board's vice chair for 2025 will be Sonny Dhaliwal, who represents the third district and was approved by a unanimous vote after being sworn in as a supervisor. Dhaliwal, who served 18 years on the Lathrop City Council, including six as mayor, succeeds Tom Patti, who also termed out in November after eight years on the board. Dhaliwal said he was "deeply honored" by the trust and support voters placed in him during the election, and that serving his constituents is a privilege he did not take lightly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This chair is bigger than the one I had at the City of Lathrop," he said. "So that means the duties are huge and the challenges are huge. And all of us will meet them head-on working together. Although we come from different districts, we all work collectively to uplift the lives of all county residents." Taking Villapudua's first district seat on the dais Monday was Mario Gardea, a Stockton firefighter of more than 20 years. Gardea said it was hard to believe he was driving a fire truck through Stockton one month ago, and now he will be representing the community in which he was raised. "I'm not a person who gets up and gives a big 'hurrah' speech about what we're going to do," he said. "But I am a person about building teams and working together. It's exciting to fulfilling the wants of the community. The community wants public safety. The community wants clean streets, and just a better place to live. It's not about us up here, it's about community." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stockton resident Pat Barrett said she was excited to see what's going to happen to the county over the next two years with new faces and "new blood" on the dais. "San Joaquin is a great county," she said. "(It has) good, strong cities. We just need to have the right power to pull them all together to show this country we're not crime, we're not violence, we're not unsafe." Supervisor Steve Ding, who represents the Lodi area, said this year's board consisted of great individuals, and offered some advice to the newcomers. "To help you sleep at night, remember that we don't own this chair, we sit in it," he said. "This seat belongs to the public. Make the decisions that are right for the community and you'll sleep really well at night." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canepa noted the county will be turning 175 this year, and celebrations begin later this month. "As one of the original California counties, San Joaquin has a rich history which we are going to explore together later this year," he said. "We will look to our past to see where our strengths come from, to learn from those that have gone before us. We will use those lessons to better inform how we move forward with pride and past accomplishments, having learned lessons from the past." The board will reconvene on Tuesday, Jan. 14 for its regular meeting. (KRON) A complaint against the County of San Mateo was filed by Sheriff Christina Corpus in December. Local media was supposed to hear from the sheriff on Monday about the complaint, but that press conference was canceled. Her lawyer said thats because new information was discovered over the weekend that needs to be combed through. White mans world: Sheriffs attorney blasts her critics On Friday, KRON4 received a copy of the five-page claim filed against San Mateo County, claiming Sheriff Corpus is a victim of discrimination, harassment and defamation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calls for the Sheriffs resignation started after a 400-page report was released by the countys independent investigator. Corpus was accused of racism, retaliation, homophobia, abuse of power, and having a romantic relationship with the assistant sheriff. Timeline: San Mateo County Sheriff Corpus scandal Sheriff Corpus lawyer, Brad Gage, said the incomplete investigation was missing key evidence and done for illegal reasons. By releasing the report initially, they violated the rights of Sheriff Corpus because as a peace officer, shes protected under whats known as the Peace Officers Bill of Rights which includes confidentiality, said Gage. So when they disclosed some of this information, they broke the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim against the county was filed on Dec. 18 for the amount of $10 million. Gage shed light to KRON4 as to why Mondays press conference was cancelled. The Sheriff was unavailable because of developments going on and this is something that is rapidly evolving so there is some new information that we have received that we want to check out so we can accurately report it to the media, said Gage. San Mateo County Attorney John Nibbelin said the claim against the county is without merit and that if a lawsuit is filed in the future, the county will address the baseless allegations in court. Legal Analyst Steven Clark said this is the first time in months that the Sheriff has been on the offense. What Christina Corpus is saying is that Ive been unfairly targeted here. Ive been unfairly branded a racist, among other things. What she is now saying is that she is the victim, and she is the one that should be making the claim against the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors has placed an amendment on the March ballot, asking voters to grant them the power to remove Sheriff Corpus from office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WSPA) An 11-day celebration including hundreds of restaurants in the Upstate returns Thursday. South Carolina Restaurant Week will begin Thursday, Jan. 9 to Sunday, Jan. 19. Participating restaurants feature new menu items, fan favorites, and multi-course menus during Restaurant Week in South Carolina. The following restaurants are participating in the Upstate: Anderson County Greenville County Spartanburg County Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 much-delayed Scottish ferry funded by the Scottish National Party (SNP) has suffered a fresh setback after encountering problems with its onboard sewage system. Scottish Government-owned operator CalMac is racing to fix issues with the sewage and lavatory system on the Glen Sannox vessel after tests indicated it would struggle to cope with the demands of hundreds of passengers. The ferry, which with its sister ship the Glen Rosa is 250m over budget and six years late, has been undergoing sea trials since mid-November and is set to begin commercial services to the Isle of Arran next Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the ferry firm called off a trial sailing with invited guests and the media scheduled for Tuesday after the fault was discovered. CalMac said the Glen Sannox required minor remedial work to fix the sewage system, which uses vacuum technology to evacuate waste when the toilets are flushed. Other outstanding issues include a glitch with electronics on the vessels bridge, although the company said it remained confident of bringing the ferry into service as planned on Jan 13. A CalMac spokesman said: As can normally be anticipated during the early stages of a newbuild vessels operational life, we have a number of technical issues that we are working to resolve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issues relate to ancillary systems that are not critical to general vessel operation but are needed for full entry into service. The route will launch with a full timetable and is already bookable on our website from that date. The Glen Sannox was launched by Nicola Sturgeon, then SNP leader and first minister, in 2017 - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images The Glen Sannox was launched by Nicola Sturgeon, then SNP leader and first minister, in 2017 at a ceremony for which it was given painted-on windows and plywood funnels to mask the reality that it was only partly built. Originally slated for delivery a year later, the ferry suffered a series of construction issues that led Ms Sturgeon to nationalise failed manufacturer Ferguson Marine in 2019. CalMac itself has been under state control since 1990. The bosses of both firms were ousted within weeks of each other last year, with the Scottish Conservatives suggesting that the pair had been made scapegoats for the SNPs mismanagement of the ferry network and the procurement of replacement ships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Glen Sannox will have space for more than 850 passengers and 130 cars and will play a crucial role in bolstering capacity to Arran, the busiest route on the CalMac network. 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. Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) said Monday he doesnt want President Biden to set a precedent by issuing a preemptive pardon to himself and others related to the work they did on the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. It would be the wrong precedent to set. I dont want to see each president hereafter on their way out the door giving out a broad category of pardons, Schiff said in an interview with CNNs Dana Bash. Pressed on the potential for a more targeted pardon, Schiff responded, Well, and here Im just speaking for myself, those of us that were on the Jan. 6 committee who [President-elect Trump] has put in the crosshairs, were all enormously proud of the work that we did. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We stand by it. We feel we have the protection of the Speech and Debate Clause. So, I my own feeling is, lets just avoid this kinda broad precedent, he added. Schiff stopped short of saying he would say no to such a pardon if offered, saying of Biden, Im urging that he not go down that road. In a sit-down interview that aired last month, Trump suggested to NBC Newss Kristen Welker that he would not specifically order those hes appointing to top administration positions to go after his political enemies, but referenced jailing members on the Jan. 6 committee. Some Democrats have suggested Biden should preemptively pardon individuals who may be targeted by Trump and his administration before Biden leaves office later this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were back in this conundrum again, where a Democratic president can do things for a very good reason, a laudable reason, a legitimate reason in this case, that people are being threatened improperly by an incoming president but then that precedent can be abused, Schiff said in his Monday CNN appearance. Trump has also promised to grant clemency to rioters who showed up at the Capitol on Jan. 6 four years ago. The president-elect has signaled that some pardons could be issued in the first few hours of his second term. On Monday, Congress certified Trumps 2024 electoral victory, officially securing his win over Vice President Harris two weeks out from his inauguration with no objections from lawmakers in the chamber. The Hill has reached out to the White House and the Trump transition team for comment. 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. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has blasted his conservative rival's call for a rollback of recent reforms that makes it easier to obtain German citizenship, as the campaigns for next month's national elections heats up. Scholz, speaking at an event outside of Berlin on Tuesday, said he was "very upset" by Friedrich Merz's suggestion because it represented "a step backwards when Germany has just made great progress." 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 more quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merz - the centre-right CDU/CSU bloc's candidate for chancellor in the early elections on February 23 - had told the Welt newspaper that dual citizenship should be harder to get and reversible in case of criminal offences. "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." Speaking at the campaign event in the town of Ludwigsfelde, Scholz pointed to the shortage of skilled workers in Germany as a reason to welcome new citizens. "We need the possibility of getting great people from other countries to help us in Germany in the future," said Scholz, from the centre-left Social Democratic Party. At the same time, he said, irregular migration must be further limited. 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. JONATHAN LANDRUM JR. & HALELUYA HADERO, MDT/AP German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has urged for better state support for victims of the deadly car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg. "I want the victims of this act of violence to have a better claim to state support in dealing with the consequences," Scholz told the Stern magazine in an interview published on Tuesday. So far, victims are only entitled to support if an incident is classified as a terrorist attack "but not in the same way in the case of the act of a madman," the chancellor explained, adding that for those affected, however, this distinction makes little difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We must be able to provide more comprehensive support for such acts too," Scholz added. The attack on December 20 saw a 50-year-old man drive a car into crowds attending a Christmas market, killing a 9-year-old boy and five women aged between 45 and 75. At least 299 injuries were reported. The suspect, from Saudi Arabia, is in custody. 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. The victims' representative estimates that more than 531 people were affected by the attack. This figure includes individuals who lost family members, those who sustained injuries, and others who were present at the scene. Scholz has called for a thorough investigation and said the government is prepared to make adjustments if needed. "If it turns out that new powers are needed, for example for the communication between security authorities, we will quickly get them under way." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has commemorated the victims of the Islamist attack on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, which occurred 10 years ago on Tuesday. "We sympathize with our French friends today, as we did back then," Scholz wrote on X. "The attack was aimed at our shared values of freedom and democracy." "We will never accept that," Scholz added, condemning what he called a "barbaric attack." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 17 people were killed in the shooting at the magazine on January 7, 2015, as well as in connected attacks on a police officer and a kosher supermarket in the days that followed. The three perpetrators were shot and killed by security forces. Twelve people lost their lives in the attack on Charlie Hebdo alone, in which two brothers opened fire in the editorial office and caused a bloodbath. Jan. 7The Albert Lea school board on Monday accepted a proposal from Minnesota School Boards Association to conduct a search for Albert Lea's next full-time superintendent. Chairman Dave Klatt said the first step will be getting together with an MSBA representative to talk about the timeline for the search and other logistics behind it. This will likely happen in late January, and Klatt said he would check on a Jan. 24 date. Board member Gary Schindler said the MSBA search would be comprehensive, and he referenced the 85% of superintendent searches across the state that are done by the organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The job opening has not yet been posted yet, but will likely be done before the board meets later in January. Board member Mary Jo Dorman said when she was on the team to hire former Superintendent Mike Funk, there were different interview committees that were included in the search process with a community group, administration group and a group of general staff. The candidates rotated through the different groups. "I think the public really respected the outreach we did," she said, encouraging something similar to happen with this search, as well as a survey for all stakeholders. Klatt said with the last search, the district's timeline was abbreviated "pretty drastically." He also liked the idea of even reaching out to the communities where the candidates will be coming from for additional feedback. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Board member Neal Skaar said he thought it was also important to ask community members where the candidates will be coming from and to involve more people in the search outside of administrators. "Everybody should have a voice in this," Skaar said. According to the proposal, there could be several opportunities for public involvement, including a survey that would be open to all staff, parents, students, community members and district partners about priorities for the role, the opportunities and challenges facing the district, as well as what type of individual could most effectively lead the district. MSBA could also facilitate public involvement in the interview process if requested. The estimated fee for the search is not to exceed $13,900, which includes the search team's time and expenses. Additional fees could be added depending on where the district wanted to advertise the position, for various background checks, for optional focus groups or listening sessions and for expenses associated with the finalist interviews. The action comes after the board last month parted ways with former Superintendent Ron Wagner. The board voted to place Wagner on paid administrative leave through the end of June and to allow his contract to expire without renewal at that time. HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) From the classroom at a classical magnet school in Hartford to a courtroom, high schoolers are using after-school time to practice their presentation of an intense murder trial with a twist. This is an interesting case that only Connecticut can have in New Haven, as the argument is over pizza, United States history teacher Jeffrey Hoberman said. Jeffrey Hoberman, a former lawyer turned teacher, guided his team to a statewide competition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats Right With Schools: Wallingford students surpass donation goal for local food pantry The case the students are practicing was put together by the Connecticut Bar Association. Several schools in the state have the same case. The goal is to present it better and move on to a national competition. The case is made up but the workload is realistic. Theyre pouring over 90 pages of evidence and testimony. I really like being a witness because I get to express the character as well, senior Ayana Miller said. I feel like it helps me understand basic court rules. The students are working through a complex case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its also very rewarding when you get over what you need to get over. Its like Im holding this down, student Shyana said. Theyre preparing to present it in a Hartford Superior Courtroom, experiencing firsthand how it all comes together. I feel like it helps me understand basic court rules, Miller said. Whats great is this is whats called an Enrichment club, which means no school credits are earned. They do it because they want to and have fun competing. Id say theyre learning a lot of great skills in their free time. I want to go into law professionally and be an attorney just like my teacher, Shyana 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 WTNH.com. A new study has found a common "forever chemical" in mineral water from several European nations. What's happening? Researchers from the Pesticide Action Network Europe looked at 19 mineral waters from European countries and found that 10 of them contained trifluoroacetic acid, a type of PFAS. The Guardian reported on the findings, calling them "startling because mineral water should be pristine and insulated from manmade chemicals." However, TFA was found at levels up to 32 times over the threshold that should trigger regulatory action from the European Union, according to the publication. The study's authors believe the contamination stems from the application of pesticides containing TFA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This has gone completely under the radar and it's concerning because we're drinking TFA," Angeliki Lysimachou, one of the paper's co-authors, told The Guardian. "It's much more widespread than we thought." Why is this study concerning? TFA is on the rise in our environment and can be found in drinking water, rain, and our bloodstreams, according to another article from The Guardian, which added that scientists believe the substance could impact fertility and fetal development. Like all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, this forever chemical is incredibly persistent in the environment and widespread across the globe. For instance, another recent study in Michigan found the substance in all rainwater samples tested. What's being done about TFA? TFA is especially difficult to remove from water, making large-scale solutions expensive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's no way to get TFA out," David Behringer, an environmental consultant who has studied TFA in rain for the German government, told The Guardian. "Reverse osmosis is massively expensive and not scalable, so the logical course is to stop the input." To that end, countries such as Denmark and Germany have set limits for TFA in drinking water, the publication reported. Which of these features would most effectively convince you to buy an EV? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind Meanwhile, the European Commission proposed a ban on the pesticides flufenacet and flutolanil, which break down into TFA. 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. A recent study on the link between microplastics and multiple forms of cancer has sparked a debate between scientists who aren't fully convinced about the results. What's happening? According to the Washington Post, researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, published a paper in the journal Environmental Science and Technology and "concluded that there is evidence linking microplastics to lung cancer and colon cancer, as well as some reproductive problems." The researchers conducted thousands of studies, largely on mice, that explored the impacts of exposure to microplastics on three bodily systems. In hopes of assessing the risk to humans, they looked for "evidence of changes in the colon and lungs, as well as signs that the microplastics were having carcinogenic, or cancerous, effects," per the Washington Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the results of the study are concerning, other scientists warned that the findings could be premature. "We are still learning about the nature of the plastics in the human body and there is a lot of published research based on shaky assumptions," Matthew Campen, a professor and toxicologist at the University of New Mexico, wrote in an email to the Washington Post. "I am not really critical of those papers, because we have to start somewhere, but using data from those studies to assess human health is just too soon." Why is this important? Amid continued efforts to evaluate the full effects of increased exposure to microplastics, it's already clear that they pose dangerous health risks. Even more concerning is the fact that these tiny particles "are now virtually everywhere: in the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat," per the Washington Post. In addition to the potential connection between microplastics and cancer, research has linked ongoing exposure to lung disorders, neurological issues, immune system dysfunction, cancer, and other severe health complications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the skepticism, some scientists praised the findings on microplastic exposure's link to cancer as a significant advancement. "The conclusion about microplastic exposure being a 'suspected' hazard to human digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems represents a stronger stance than many previous reviews in my opinion," Luis Fernando Amato-Lourenco, a postdoctoral researcher at the Free University of Berlin who studies microplastics in the body and was not involved in the study, told the Washington Post. Which of these factors is your biggest obstacle to purchasing an EV? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind What's being done about this? The Washington Post painted a grim outlook regarding the push to reduce our exposure to microplastics. While scientists have increasingly begun pushing for action from policymakers, progress has stalled. In November, negotiations in Busan, South Korea, for a global plastics treaty that could have curbed the production of microplastics fell through. "The government waits," Tracey Woodruff, professor and director of the UCSF Center for Reproductive Health and the Environment and one of the paper's authors, told the Washington Post. "And while we're waiting, exposures are not only continuing but are projected to increase." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are ways we can help reduce the amount of plastic entering our environment and bodies, which would potentially lower the risks associated with microplastics. Simple swaps like choosing reusable water bottles over plastic ones and exploring other plastic-free alternatives can help protect your health and the planet. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Governor Phil Scott has appointed a financial services executive from Castleton to the Vermont House of Representatives. Zachary Harvey will take the Rutland-3rd District seat that was to be filled by Chris Brown, who was elected in November. Brown, a Republican, said last month that he would not join the House in order to support his wife, Andrea, who was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. I am appreciative of Zaks willingness to serve his constituents in this role, Scott said. As we enter a new legislative session, I believe we have a real opportunity to address the affordability crisis we face and Im confident Zaks perspective will make him an effective legislator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Vermont lawmaker wont take office after wifes cancer diagnosis Scott described Harvey as a proud 5th generation Vermonter who has had a long career in financial services, including various roles at the New York Stock Exchange and its parent, Intercontinental Exchange. Harvey was chosen from a list of candidates submitted by Castleton Republicans. He has a degree in Political Science with a minor in Economics from Providence College. I am deeply honored by Governor Scotts appointment and grateful for his confidence in me, Harvey said. As the new legislative session begins, I am focused on addressing the issues facing Vermonters, such as affordability and education. I look forward to working with the Governor and my fellow legislators to build a stronger, more prosperous Vermont for all. 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 ABC22 & FOX44. Police have arrested two men suspected of burglarizing a shop and stealing HKD48,000. One of the suspects, a former employee of the store, deceived a locksmith into believing he had lost the key, enabling him to unlock the door. The theft was reported last Saturday after the store manager discovered the lock had been cut open. Officers intercepted the two men, aged 29 and 33, and found HKD6,000 in their possession. The locksmith later confirmed he had been misled into assisting with the break-in. Related LONDON (AP) Scottish regulators have criticized the past management of a charity founded by King Charles III following an investigation triggered by media reports that a Saudi billionaire sought to secure a knighthood and U.K. citizenship in return for donations. The Scottish charity regulator, known as the OSCR, found in a report released Tuesday that the former trustees of the Scotland-based Kings Foundation previously known as the Princes Foundation didnt properly scrutinize a number of transactions and failed to adequately oversee the charitys former chief executive. The inquiry found the historical governance of the charity had not always been up to the standard required, the regulator found. But it said the inquiry did not find evidence of misconduct by any of the former or current trustees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation followed a series of stories about the charity published by the Times of London in 2021. The newspaper reported that Michael Fawcett, a long-time aide to Charles who was then CEO of the foundation, had offered to help secure support for a Saudi citizen to receive a knighthood and British citizenship in return for donations of as much as 1.5 million pounds ($2 million). Fawcett resigned in November 2021. Londons Metropolitan Police Service opened an investigation into the newspapers allegations in 2022. After interviewing a number of witnesses and reviewing more than 200 documents, police said they would take no action in the case. While Scottish regulators didn't discuss the cash-for-honors scandal, they did refer to a report on donations made by the Mahfouz Foundation, a charity founded by Mohammad Marei Mubarak Bin Mahfouz, the Saudi billionaire at the heart of the allegations. Scottish regulators referred to an earlier investigation by their counterparts in England, which last year found that trustees of the Mahfouz Foundation had allowed it to be used for the receipt and expenditure of funds from the billionaire for the furtherance of his personal interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement English regulators last year barred a former trustee of the Mahfouz Foundation from serving as a trustee of any charity for 12 years. The Mahfouz Foundation has ceased to operate. Charles founded the Prince's Foundation in 1990 to support education, sustainability and traditional arts and crafts. The charity changed its name after Charles became king in 2022. Scottish regulators criticized Fawcetts handling of several transactions, including allowing the insurance to lapse on valuable artwork that had been loaned to the charity. In relation to the charitys former CEO, the inquiry found that some of his actions resulted in the charity being exposed to substantial risk, the regulator said. It was unacceptable that he did not brief the charity trustees on some of these serious issues as soon as they arose. Nonetheless, given all the information, the regulator said it does not consider that there was misconduct on the part of the former CEO. A Scot serving as a medic with the Ukrainian army was killed on the front line on Friday, his family has said. Jordan Maclachlan, 26, volunteered to help Ukraine after Russias invasion in February 2022, and joined the army soon after, his family said. Mr Maclachlan was killed alongside his best friend when a Russian assault overran his position, said Robert Mews, his uncle. He never thought to leave his position, Mr Mews added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Mews said it had not been possible to retrieve Mr Maclachlans body because of the nature of the battle. This man [Mr Maclachlan] is probably the most selfless man I know and I am proud to be his uncle, he added. Mr Maclachlans family said: He always believed that he was making a difference and we are all so proud of him helping others. Jordan was a fun-loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and a friend to many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Information very limited They family they were waiting for further contact from the Foreign Office as information was very limited, and asked for privacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Machlachlan was from Ardnamurchan, a remote area of the western Highlands, and is understood to have attended Ardnamurchan High School. A photo released by his family showed him in camouflage uniform in Ukraine with a Scottish flag patch on his right shoulder. A Foreign Office spokesman said: We are supporting the family of a British man who died in Ukraine and are in contact with the local authorities. Jonathan Shenkin, 45, from Glasgow, died while fighting for Ukraine in 2022 In 2022, Jonathan Shenkin, a 45-year-old father of two from Glasgow, was killed while serving as a paramedic in the Ukrainian army. Mr Shenkins brother said at the time: On enlisting in the armed forces of Ukraine, he made the ultimate sacrifice to defend values we all believe in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least two Scottish men are reported to have signed up to fight for Russia. Jay Fraser, 24, from Dunblane, recounted completing three combat deployments with confirmed kills in each in November, The Scottish Sun said. And Ross McElvenny, 25, from Glasgow, was reported to have lost an eye while fighting for Vladimir Putin in Ukraine. The last Briton reported killed in action while fighting for Ukraine was Callum Tindal-Draper, a former community care worker from Cornwall who died while defending an observation post on Nov 5. He was 22. Mr Tindal-Drapers platoon described him as a hero and as brave as they come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Foreign Office has urged people not to travel to Ukraine while the country is in conflict with Russia. 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. 6A state prosecutor, University of New Hampshire police chief and the chair of the New Hampshire Young Republicans (NHYR) are among the group recently added to the office staff of Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte, officials confirmed Monday. Ayotte, the 56-year-old former U.S. senator and New Hampshire attorney general, takes the oath of office as the state's next chief executive Thursday during a ceremony in Representatives Hall, the House chamber. Myles Matteson will become Ayotte's legal counsel after serving as a senior assistant attorney general and chief of the criminal justice bureau in the Attorney General's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past, Matteson also led the election laws unit and in that role was the AG's liaison to Secretary of State David Scanlan on all election matters. The new director of citizens services will be Paul Dean, who has been police chief at the University of New Hampshire. Serving as an assistant under Dean will be Virginia Drye of Plainfield, the NHYR chair who also was circulation director for the Claremont Eagle Times. Drye was the GOP nominee for a state representative seat in Sullivan County and lost to Cornish Democrat William Palmer. Caroline Hakes, Ayotte's deputy campaign manager last fall, will be the governor's communications director. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morgan Hughes, a lawyer with the Orr & Reno law firm in Concord, will be the director of appointments and Ayotte's liaison to the Executive Council. Consuelo Carver will be director of scheduling after having retired as an FBI agent. She is also a retired lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. Three staffers with outgoing Gov. Chris Sununu will join Ayotte's team, led by James Gerry, Sununu's budget director, who takes on the role of directing policy and finance for the new governor. Other Sununu alumni are Alex Holderith, who will be Gerry's assistant after working as a special assistant under Sununu, and Donna Schoenfeld, who will serve as a staff assistant for Ayotte after doing the same work in Sununu's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Callaghan joins the team as a policy and legislative assistant after having been Ayotte's field director. Tyler Flanigan, most recently campaign manager for 2nd Congressional District candidate Vikram Mansharamani's GOP primary bid, will be Ayotte's community engagement coordinator. Ayotte previously had announced Hillsborough County Sheriff Christopher Connelly would be her chief of staff and her campaign manager John Corbett would serve as a senior advisor. Corbett also had been executive vice president of Jamestown Associates, a political consulting firm. The hires bring Ayotte's staff to 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sununu had 20 office employees. "I am sure we will be adding over the coming weeks, but Governor-elect Ayotte has built a staff that is ready to work on day one," Corbett said in a statement. "She will continue to add talented individuals to her team as she works to deliver for all New Hampshire." klandrigan@unionleader.com Seattle police officer Kevin Dave, who hit and killed 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula in a crosswalk in January of 2023, has been fired. In an email sent to staff Monday, interim Police Chief Sue Rahr said, I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible. However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of a human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department. His termination was effective Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full email can be found below. The King County Prosecutors Office said he was driving 74 MPH without continuously running his siren while responding to a call in an area where speeds are capped at 25 MPH. He was not criminally charged. King County Prosecutors said they lacked enough evidence to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Dave was issued a traffic infraction from the Seattle City Attorneys Office for negligent driving, where he was ordered to pay $5,000. I am reaching out to all of you before the media coverage begins. The officer that struck and killed college student Jaahnavi Kandula January 26, 2023, was terminated today. The case was reviewed by the King County Prosecutors Office and declined for prosecution last year. It was then referred to the Seattle City Attorneys Office and the Officer was charged with second degree negligent driving. The Seattle Office of Police Accountability (OPA) waited until both criminal and civil infraction cases were complete before completing their investigation. OPA found that the officer violated the following Seattle Police Department policies: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5.001 - Standards and Duties, 5.001-POL-2. Employees Must Adhere to Laws, City Policy, and Department Policy 13.030 - Emergency Vehicle Operations, 13.030-POL-3. Officers Shall Modify Their Emergency Response When Appropriate 13.030 - Emergency Vehicle Operations, 13.030-POL-5. Officers Are Responsible for the Safe Operation of Their Police Vehicle 13.030 - Emergency Vehicle Operations, 13.030-POL-4. Officers Use Emergency Lights for Emergency Response As I have done in the past, I want the members of SPD to hear from me directly why I made that decision. I believe the officer did not intend to hurt anyone that night and that he was trying to get to a possible overdose victim as quickly as possible. However, I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving. His positive intent does not mitigate the poor decision that caused the loss of a human life and brought discredit to the Seattle Police Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I understand and accept that many will not agree with this decision. This case is tragic on every level and will have lifelong implications for everyone involved. It is my hope that this heartbreaking situation will be an enduring reminder that officers responding to emergencies: Do not lose sight of the danger that is created by excessive speed when responding to emergency calls. As always, take good care of each other and stay safe. Previous KIRO 7 coverage: Seattle police identify officer who struck, killed pedestrian in crash Video shows SPD cop laughing, joking about pedestrian killed by officer a day earlier Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New bodycam shows moments before and after SPD officer hit and killed 23-year-old King County to have outside firm investigate collision where SPD officer killed pedestrian Disturbing, inhumane: OPA rules on SPD cop who joked about death of 23-year-old SPD officer that hit and killed Jaahnavi Kandula in crosswalk will not face charges KCPAO decision to not file criminal charges in Kandula case sparks Seattle protests SPD Officer Daniel Auderer fired after joking about death of Jaahnavi Kandula, killed in officer-involved crash SPD cop who joked about pedestrians death to speak at national conference SPD officer fighting traffic infraction after hitting, killing pedestrian in 2023 Family of Jaahnavi Kandula files wrongful death lawsuit against Seattle and police officer Sebastian Zapeta, the migrant accused of fatally setting homeless woman Debrina Kawam on fire on a Coney Island subway train, pleaded not guilty in Brooklyn Supreme Court Tuesday to the horrific caught-on-video attack that shocked the city. Zapeta, a 33-year-old Guatemalan migrant living in a Brooklyn mens shelter, was arraigned before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun on first-degree murder and arson charges. Chun ordered he remain held without bail until his next court appearance March 12. Until recently, 57-year-old Kawam was listed as a Jane Doe on the indictment against Zapeta. Authorities identified her last week and Assistant District Attorney Matthew Perry on Tuesday had the document amended to include her name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta approached Kawam as she slept in an F train stopped at the end of the line at Coney Island-Stillwell Ave. station at about 7:30 a.m. Dec. 22, according to cops. They appeared to be strangers, police said. He said nothing to her as he set her clothing ablaze with a lighter, then fanned the fire with a shirt as the flames engulfed her, according to prosecutors. Chilling video shows Zapeta sitting on a bench on the train platform as Kawam burned to death as she stood helplessly near the subway cars open door. Surveillance video later recovered by cops shows Zapeta inside the subway car and a police officers body cam got a clear shot of his face, cops said. The NYPD quickly released images of the suspect to the media and a trio of high schoolers spotted him on another train later in the day and called 911, the commissioner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta was arrested by Customs and Border Patrol in Arizona on June 2, 2018, sources said, then removed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials and returned to Guatemala. But he made his way back to the U.S. sometime after. His lawyer, Andrew Friedman, once again reserved the right to apply for bail at a later date. NEW YORK Sebastian Zapeta, the migrant accused of fatally setting homeless woman Debrina Kawam on fire on a Coney Island subway train, pleaded not guilty Tuesday even as court papers revealed he said, Oh, damn, thats me, when shown the horrific video of the attack that shocked the city. Zapeta, a 33-year-old Guatemalan migrant living in a Brooklyn mens shelter, was arraigned before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun on first-degree murder and arson charges. Chun ordered he remain held without bail until his next court appearance March 12. Until recently, 57-year-old Kawam was listed as a Jane Doe on the indictment against Zapeta. Authorities identified her last week and Assistant District Attorney Matthew Perry on Tuesday had the document amended to include her name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Zapetas arrest, he told a trio of NYPD detectives one of whom translated from Spanish that he had no memory of what hed done and that he often drank so much he would erase the memory of what happened and wake up at home. The detectives confronted him with the video, with one telling him, The best thing for us here, we want to know why you went to that woman in front of you and set fire to her. Why did you do it? To tell you the truth, to be honest, I dont remember, Zapeta replied. When the detectives showed Zapeta video of himself as he lit Kawam ablaze, he responded with surprise, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Who is that person? the Spanish-speaking detective asks, and Zapeta responds, Oh, damn, thats me. Thats you, right?, the cop continues, and Zapeta responds, Yes. Do you see whats happening now? Do you see what youre doing? You are setting that woman on fire. Do you remember that or not? the detective asks. No, I really dont remember, Zapeta responds. But thats you, right? the detective asks. Yes, Zapeta replies, according to the court documents. Zapeta approached Kawam as she slept in an F train stopped at the end of the line at Coney Island-Stillwell Ave. station at about 7:30 a.m. Dec. 22, according to cops. They appeared to be strangers, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said nothing to her as he set her clothing ablaze with a lighter, then fanned the fire with a shirt as the flames engulfed her, according to prosecutors. Chilling video shows Zapeta sitting on a bench on the train platform as Kawam burned to death as she stood helplessly near the subway cars open door. Surveillance video later recovered by cops shows Zapeta inside the subway car and a police officers body cam got a clear shot of his face, cops said. The NYPD quickly released images of the suspect to the media and a trio of high schoolers spotted him on another train later in the day and called 911, the commissioner said. Zapeta was arrested by Customs and Border Patrol in Arizona on June 2, 2018, sources said, then removed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials and returned to Guatemala. But he made his way back to the U.S. sometime after. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zapeta told the detectives he came back to the U.S. illegally about five years ago, arriving in Queens with his wifes nephew. Relatives took him in but that living situation fell apart during the COVID-19 pandemic. I stayed with them, but in the pandemic, they threw me out because of my brother-in-law. Okay, after the pandemic I went out to work and my brother-in-law called them and told him that my brother-in-law was working with us, and he said that all the guys that worked there were infected with coronavirus, Up until his arrest, he was doing construction work in Queens, meeting his employer. who he refers to as the Mexican, outside the boss house in Jamaica before a job. He finished work the day before the attack about 5:30 p.m., then went to a bar in Jamaica to buy beer and get drunk, he told detectives. His lawyer, Andrew Friedman, once again reserved the right to apply for bail at a later date. (FOX40.COM) Through DNA analysis, the body recovered from Thermalito Afterbay in Butte County on Sunday has been identified as Wesley Cornett, the second of two brothers who went missing in mid-December, according to the Butte County Sheriffs Office. The discovery of Wesleys body comes nearly a week after the body of his brother, Andruw Cornett, body was also recovered in the Afterbay. Child and animals found dead together in Sutter County RV park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wesleys body was found around 9:12 a.m. on Sunday by a person walking on the west bank of the waterway. The pair went missing on Dec. 14 while duck hunting in the area when one of the brothers was in a kayak that flipped over and the second went in to rescue them. The Butte County Sheriffs Office said that when the brothers went missing, the water temperature was around 46F, winds were between 20 to 30 mph and swells were as high as four feet. Law enforcement agencies from across the region along with several independent divers not associated with law enforcement assisted in the search for the two brothers. 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 FOX40. The president-elects son is not in Greenland on official business, but that has not stopped some online from crowning him as the acting secretary of state. Donald Trump revealed Monday night that Don Jr. was headed to the autonomous Danish territory to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. Photos posted by Trump on Tuesday showed that the right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk had also tagged along. This was not just any other leisure trip, however. Trump has made clear he hopes to annex the frigid island because of its strategic location as a massive land mass between North America and Europe in the north Atlantic Ocean. Truth Social Trump has since proclaimed that Greenland is MAGA and that is peopleunlike its prime ministerwant to join the United States. He has also pitched himself as a savior for the island and its populace of just 56,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation, he wrote Monday. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! It appears Don Jr.s trip to the islands capital of Nuukwhere the high temperature on Tuesday was a chilly 22 degrees, nearly 40 degrees cooler than the high at his home in Jupiter, Floridawas a productive one, despite a source telling Fox News that his trip would not include meetings with government or political officials. Don. Jr poses with Greenlanders on Tuesday. / Truth Social The elder Trump wrote that the reception has been great from Greenlanders. He suggested the trip made him believe further that this is a deal that must happen. At least one man in Greenland agrees. He threw on Trumps signature red cap for a video in which he proclaimed his love for America and asked Trump to buy his island. Denmarks constitution protects Greenlands autonomy, and officials there have not been so open to Trumps advances. Prime Minister Mute Egede released a statement on Christmas Eve to assert, Greenland is ours. (Reuters) - A security guard at the Honduran consulate near Atlanta was shot dead on Monday by an armed man who refused to hand over his weapon before entering the building and instead fired on the security guard, the Honduran foreign minister said. Officials in the Atlanta suburb of Doraville said the suspect was in custody and another person was wounded. Honduran Foreign Minister Eduardo Enrique Reina told a press conference in Tegucigalpa the suspect was a Honduran national and the private security guard of Mexican origin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The individual refused to hand over his weapon and unfortunately pulled out his weapon, mortally wounding the security guard with five shots," Reina said. The security guard managed to close the door, preventing the armed man from entering and possibly sparing more victims, the foreign minister said. A Honduran witness waiting to enter the consulate noted the fleeing suspect's license plate number and reported it to police, Reina said. The suspect was undergoing questioning at the Doraville Police Department and the wounded person was being treated at the hospital, city of Doraville spokesperson Emily Heenan said. (Reporting by Gustavo Palencia in Tegucigalpa and Daniel Trotta in Carlsbad, California; Editing by Sandra Maler) NEW YORK (AP) The chief of staff for a Chinese businessman sought by the government of China was sentenced Monday to 10 years in prison for her role in the $1 billion fraud case. Yvette Wang, 45, was sentenced in Manhattan federal court less than two years after her arrest in March 2023, when FBI agents found $130,000 of cash in a safe in her Manhattan apartment. Judge Analisa Torres said Wang was an integral part of the conspiracy carried out by Guo Wengui, who was convicted at a July trial and awaits sentencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wang also agreed to forfeit $1.4 billion as part of her May guilty plea to conspiracy charges. Guo was convicted of defrauding hundreds of thousands of followers in the U.S. and around the world of over $1 billion. Prosecutors said Wang, along with Guo and others, carried out the fraud from 2018 through March 2023. At her plea, Wang admitted to conspiring with Guo and others to commit wire fraud and money laundering by giving false information to induct victims to send money through entities and organizations including Guos media company, GTV Media Group Inc., and his so-called Himalaya Farm Alliance and the Himalaya Exchange, in return for stock or cryptocurrency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without the plea, she could have faced life in prison if she was convicted at trial. Guo was once believed to be among the richest people in China. In 2014, he left during an anti-corruption crackdown led by President Xi Jinping that ensnared people close to Guo, including a top intelligence official. Since then, he has been highly sought by that nations government, relying on the U.S. for protection as Chinese authorities accused him of rape, kidnapping, bribery and other offenses. He has long argued that those claims were false, saying they were meant to punish him for publicly outing corruption there and criticizing key Communist Party figures. While living in New York as a fugitive, he became an outspoken critic of the ruling Communist Party and developed a close relationship with Steve Bannon, President-elect Donald Trumps former political strategist. Guo and Bannon in 2020 announced the founding of a joint initiative they said was aimed at overthrowing the Chinese government. PHOENIX (AP) James Arthur Ray, a self-help guru whose multimillion-dollar business toppled after he led a sweat lodge ceremony in Arizona that left three people dead, has died. He was 67. In a post on X, his family announced that Ray died suddenly and unexpectedly late last week but didn't specify the cause. Up until then, he co-hosted a podcast with his wife and shared advice via social media. His passion in life was always to make others lives better and more fulfilled, Rays brother, Jon Ray, wrote. Im happy to say that he accomplished that thousands of times over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stephanie Wheatley, a spokesperson for Clark County in Nevada where was Ray residing, said it had received a death report of a man matching Ray's name and age. Ray's earlier business in which he taught people about spiritual and financial help was boosted by appearances in the 2006 Rhonda Byrne documentary The Secret, which he promoted on The Oprah Winfrey Show and Larry King Live. The sweat lodge deaths occurred after dozens of people traveled to a scenic retreat just outside Sedona in October 2009 for Rays five-day Spiritual Warrior event. The sweat lodge was the culminating event, touted as hellacious hot and a chance for participants to have powerful breakthroughs. Two people 38-year-old Kirby Brown of Westtown, New York, and 40-year-old James Shore of Milwaukee died inside the sweat lodge and 18 others were injured. Another person, Liz Neuman, 49, of Prior Lake, Minnesota, fell into a coma and died after more than a week in the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At trial, prosecutors said Ray ratcheted up the heat to dangerous levels, ignored pleas for help, and watched as overcome participants were dragged out of the sweat lodge. A jury acquitted Ray of more serious manslaughter charges and convicted him of three counts of negligent homicide, for which he served concurrent sentences for the deaths. He was released in July 2013. Ray had acknowledged that he was responsible for the deaths but offered no excuses for his lack of action as the chaos unfolded at the sweat lodge. After leaving prison, Ray remained active in the self-help industry. He frequently posted videos on social media of himself and his wife, Bersabeh Ray, offering advice. The couple also hosted a podcast, Modern Alchemy, and maintained a website where Ray offered one-on-one video sessions up to 90 minutes for $2,500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of Brown's death, her family established Seek Safely, an organization offering support for those who may be vulnerable to exploitation by the self-help industry. In a statement on the organization's website, Brown's sister, Jean, offered condolences and said Ray was just one of many operators in a multi-billion dollar per year industry built on the exploitation of those who would improve their lives and find fulfillment. We can only, at this juncture, remind seekers that no guru, or program, or mindset is larger than life or without fault. That a journey of self-improvement is noble and vulnerable. That we must always remain in charge of that process of growth and change, rooted in our values, our worth, and our right to seek free from harm, she wrote. ___ Gabriel Sandoval is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, has claimed that someone is ordering Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to drag Belarus into war. Source: Lukashenko, quoted by Belarusian state-owned news outlet BelTA Quote: "Why is Volodymyr Zelenskyy acting like this? We were on good terms with him, in good relations. So was my little family. What does he want out of this? He is given an order. Is it necessary to do everything possible to drag the country into war?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Lukashenko stressed that he would do everything to preserve peace in the country, because, as he said, if Belarus is dragged into a war, it "may not be able to withstand it as a state". Quote: "If we are dragged into a war, this would be a tough situation. We may not survive as a state. So I do everything patiently, persistently, as the Lord and the church teach us. We are doing our job. Time will rebuild everything. Time will evaluate everything. But we have to stand up. They may say that we have a dictatorship or something else. Listen, I would rather have a dictatorship like in Belarus than a democracy like in Ukraine." Background: On 5 January, President Volodymyr 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. On 6 January, Natalia Eismont, the spokesperson for self-proclaimed Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, 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. Eismont confirmed that a conversation with Zelenskyy did take place in the early days of Russia's full-scale invasion. She said it occurred "solely due to the emotional reaction of Lukashenko's youngest son Nikolai, who had Zelenskyy as a personal contact in his phone". Support UP or become our patron! Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed president of Belarus who has been in office for the last three decades, said that he is not trying to hold on to power and is ready to do everything to quietly and calmly hand it over to a new generation. Source: Lukashenko, quoted by Belarusian state-owned news outlet BelTA Quote: "I am not holding on to power. I will do everything to quietly and calmly transfer this power to a new generation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Lukashenko also expressed hope during his speech in the church that he would be able to see the new government with his own eyes. He stated that his children would live and expressed his desire to see them live. He emphasised that he was not just talking about his own children, but also the children in the church, pointing to them as he spoke. Lukashenko reiterated that seeing these children live was his ultimate goal. Lukashenko said that the fact that he "is not trying to somehow hold on to power by force" is his great advantage. For reference: Alexander Lukashenko, 70, has ruled the country for 30 years. No presidential elections (2001, 2006, 2010, 2015, 2020), apart from the first one (1994), have been recognised as free and fair at the international level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the lead-up to the previous elections in Belarus, there was a wave of rallies and protests in support of opposition candidates. Lukashenko stated that there would be no "coddling" of the protesters "like in a kindergarten". Background: The Central Election Commission (CEC) of Belarus has scheduled the next presidential election for 26 January 2025. The previous elections in Belarus on 9 August 2020 were marked by the largest protests in the country's history. Some of the detainees are still being held in Belarusian prisons. Many countries around the world did not recognise the election results, where self-proclaimed president Alexander Lukashenko, according to the CEC, received the support of 80% of voters. In particular, the election was not recognised by the EU. Ukraine also did not consider the "inauguration" of Lukashenko legitimate. Support UP or become our patron! Senate Republicans are pushing to hold a confirmation hearing for Tulsi Gabbard before President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration, but Democrats are resisting setting a date for next week as the Intelligence Committee has not yet received key paperwork on the nomination, including an FBI background check, according to two sources familiar with the matter. A spokesperson for Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas, told CNN the chairman intends to hold these hearings before Inauguration Day, a timeline that would mean a hearing would need to take place either this week or next for Gabbard, Trumps pick to serve as director of national intelligence. The Intelligence Committee, the nominees and the transition are diligently working toward that goal, the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senate Intelligence Committee has not yet received the necessary paperwork from Gabbard to hold a hearing, one of the sources said, saying the paperwork includes an FBI background check, ethics disclosure or a pre-hearing questionnaire and the background check must be submitted to the committee a week before a confirmation hearing takes place. A separate source familiar told CNN that the committee expects to receive all the relevant materials to process the nomination shortly, including paperwork from the Office of Government Ethics. The source said that Gabbard has an active clearance so the FBI should be able to expedite the background check. The committee also intends to send an additional pre-hearing questionnaire to the nominee, the source said. If the committee receives the paperwork by the end of this week, a hearing could still take place at the end of next week with a full week between the hearing and receipt of the materials. Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, told CNN on Tuesday that he has a lot of questions for Gabbard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an extraordinarily important job, Warner said about the role of director of national intelligence, or spy chief. CNN previously reported that Warner was expected to meet with Gabbard privately on Tuesday. I had questions going in and I had questions coming out, he told CNN. A lot of this is also about protecting the independence of the intelligence community and making sure we continue to have the ability to share classified information with our allies, Warner added. When asked if he believes Gabbard is fit for the job of DNI, Warner demurred. This not a criticism, we just got her all the questions, Warner said. Its just the beginning of the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gabbard nomination is viewed as controversial and has drawn scrutiny because of her relative inexperience in the intelligence community and her public adoption of positions on Syria and the war in Ukraine that many national security officials see as Russian propaganda. But where she is perhaps most at odds with the agencies she may soon be tasked with leading is her distrust of broad government surveillance authorities and her support for those willing to expose some of the intelligence communitys most sensitive secrets. The former Hawaii congresswoman has taken stances that have been at odds with US foreign policy, including meeting with then-Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Syria in 2017, and saying in 2019 that he was not an enemy of the United States. In early 2022, she echoed Russian President Vladimir Putins rationale for its invasion of Ukraine, pinning the blame not on Moscow but on the Biden administrations failure to acknowledge Russias legitimate security concerns regarding Ukraines becoming a member of NATO a popular strain of thought in some right-wing circles. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Senator Adam Gomez (D, Springfield) attended the annual Three Kings Day celebration on Monday night at Union Station in Springfield. Springfield City Council sets goals for the 2025 legislative year The event was hosted by The Hispanic-American Library for the fourth year in a row, with live music and and gifts for children in attendance. Gomez was joined by State Representative Orlando Ramos and school committee member Joesiah Gonzalez. (Courtesy of the Office of Senator Adam Gomez.) (Courtesy of the Office of Senator Adam Gomez.) The celebration of Three Kings Day, or Dia de los Reyes Magos, has great significance in Puerto Rico and Latin America. The holiday celebrates the Three Wise Men visiting baby Jesus after his birth. Many countries around the world commemorate this day through gift-giving, the way the three kings did. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tonights celebration is a befitting culmination of the Christmas season where the community comes together to celebrate the Three Kings visit of Baby Jesus, Gomez said. In the spirit of the gift-bearing Kings, this annual celebration is another opportunity to be grateful for our friends, families and loved ones, while also giving back to our community. I commend The Hispanic-American Library and the dedicated volunteers who made this magical night possible. 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. DAKAR, Senegal (AP) Senegalese and Chadian leaders said that the ousting of French troops from their territories was their sovereign decision, rejecting remarks from French President Emmanuel Macron that suggested otherwise. Senegal, Chad and Ivory Coast last month announced the departure of French troops just as Paris was devising a new strategy that would sharply reduce its permanent troop presence in Africa. Macron said Monday at an annual meeting of foreign ambassadors that France had proposed to the African heads of state to reorganize our presence. He added, "As we are very polite, we have given them the priority of the announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senegals Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko wrote on X late Monday, I would like to say that, in the case of Senegal, this assertion is totally erroneous. No discussion or negotiation has taken place to date and the decision taken by Senegal stems from its sole will, as a free, independent and sovereign country, Sonko added. France has neither the capacity nor the legitimacy to ensure Africas security and sovereignty." French troops have already left Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, which are ruled by military juntas. In 2023, Macron promised a new security partnership with reduced numbers of French troops on the continent in a process he said would be based on needs expressed by African partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier on Monday, Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah expressed deep concern following Macrons remarks. Macrons words reflect a contemptuous attitude towards Africa and Africans, he said in a statement published on social media. French leaders need to learn to respect the African people and to recognize the value of their sacrifices. He added that the 60 years of French presence in Chad has often been limited to its own strategic interests, without any real lasting impact on the development of the Chadian people. Since the independence of French colonies in Africa, Paris has maintained a policy of economic, political and military sway which at the time had been dubbed Francafrique, including having thousands of permanent troops in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement France currently has 600 troops in Ivory Coast, 350 in Senegal and 350 in Gabon, as well as around 1,500 in Djibouti. It has had 1,000 troops in Chad. Frances Defense Ministry said the role of French troops in Africa is to train local soldiers and reinforce their capacities to fight extremism, mainly in peacekeeping, intelligence and logistics. But critics say keeping boots on the ground also has allowed Paris to retain influence and protect political regimes favorable to France. ___ Associated Press writer Sylvie Corbet in Paris contributed to this report. Afewweeks ago, I awoke to a text message from a friend. She wrote to me from the hospital, where she had stayed overnight with three young trans people who had been assaulted the evening before. My friend, an organizer in the trans community, had attended a Transgender Day of Remembrance event at Washington Square Park. It was on the way home from the event that the three were attacked. I couldnt imagine the shock and pain of these three young transgender people walking home, having just shared collective grief. Transgender Day of Remembrance is when we read the names of each person weve lost to anti-transgender violence. We light candles and share tight embraces in the cold while tears stream down our faces. Leaving this space in a solemn state, these folks must have thought about all the names they just heard, read out loud. Were they thinking they were going to be next? I would have, in their situation. And all this in Manhattan, a few blocks away from Stonewall Inn, where pride was born. I teach self-defense classes for trans people, and stories like these come up all the time. I always start with the same message: Dont fight. Run. Get away and live to fight another day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not the advice people expect, but its the only advice that will better ensure peoples safety. This phrase is my decades of martial arts experience wrapped into one statement. Its the Bruce Lee art of fighting without fighting. In a violent situation, adrenaline and pride can cause us to take on unnecessary risks. As trans people, we cant depend on people to be on our side, especially in public. In some horrific instances, when violence erupts, people are just as likely to cheer attackers on than stand with you. The people who come to my classes bring stories with them. With each story, I lose a part of myself, and a part of them stays with me. Every time I get a message about one of my peers being harassed, humiliated or attacked in schools, subway stations and prison cells it puts me in their shoes, and I become a part of the story. I imagine them in class asking the same questions everyone else does. Someone would share a traumatic story of violence, and ask me what I would have done. I always answer the same way: Create space between you and your attacker. Put something, anything, between you and your opponent. Even if its a bystander. Your only priority is survival. Your friends, your family they all need you to come home. When I say this, there is always a moment of collective silence between us. Its as if were reminded that were worth saving. I reached out to my friend who was with the three individuals mentioned earlier and to the people who created the social media post. I begged them to take the story to the press. No one wanted to talk. Not even anonymously. The three survivors didnt want to draw that kind of attention to themselves. I couldnt help but feel frustrated. At first, I didnt understand. Isnt visibility supposed to be our weapon? How can we fight for change if we dont tell our stories? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has been becoming a common thread in my experience, working with transgender activists and LGBTQ sources. People Ive seen on the front lines, holding banners and chanting into megaphones have begun to step back, retreating into silence. We reached the transgender tipping point in 2014 with Lavern Cox on the cover of Time magazine, when overtime anti-transgender discrimination became more organized. Ive watched as the people I admire activists, organizers, fighters were being doxxed, harassed or followed in their cars. Ive seen the toll it takes to be visible and to be the target of so much hate. Perhaps for many of us, silence isnt a weakness. Its survival. I set out to report on violence against trans people, but Ive come away with something else: a reminder that silence is not the same as absence. Just because these stories arent in the headlines doesnt mean they arent happening. When someone chooses not to speak, it doesnt mean they dont have a voice. While some trans visibility is necessary for us to eventually reach equity with other identities, no one should be forced to take on that responsibility especially when visibility can be so dangerous. Im taken back to the self-defense classes, standing in front of a room full of trans people, in fear of facing violence, wondering what they can do to protect themselves. My main objective as an instructor is to help them avoid danger once they step out of the class. In the class, I might encourage people not to talk to journalists or put their names in articles. Although I wish I could, I wont be there to defend them if they ever face a violent situation in their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asking people to reopen fresh wounds with their names displayed publicly isnt much different than expecting them to use my self-defense techniques in a physical confrontation. But journalism is a dangerous and necessary means to uncover truth and fight for a better world. Its a risk thats no different from what our LGBTQ ancestors endured to fight for the freedoms we have today. Its OK to stay quiet, heal in private and pass around Venmo links. Thats how we create space between us and potential danger. We win by living full lives in the face of adversity. Simply existing is an act of resistance, and we should be given the choice to keep our stories for ourselves. Id never pressure someone to speak out publicly, but Ill always encourage it. We need to hear your voices, but more importantly, we need you here. Seven thousand civilians remain in the city of Pokrovsk, Donetsk Oblast. Source: Oleksii Stebel, Deputy Head of the City Military Administration Quote from Stebel: "We understand that our hromada is in a very challenging situation, and the residents of our hromada are in a very challenging situation too and are in need of support from the military administration. So we continue to provide assistance, and as weve said, we will provide assistance to everyone who needs it who unfortunately has not yet left our hromada [an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories ed.]." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Stebel said the administration continues to help those who remain in the city whenever the security situation permits, including maintaining utilities and providing building materials. Background: Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggested in their report on 8 December that the Kremlin will likely persist in its efforts to capture Pokrovsk despite suffering significant personnel and material losses. Due to the Russian invasion and the deteriorating situation, Pokrovsk has been left without gas supplies. Major Viktor Trehubov, spokesman for the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group, stated during the 24/7 national joint newscast on 2 January that Russian troops are not engaging in frontal assaults on Pokrovsk but are attempting to bypass and encircle the city. On the same day, Russian forces attacked Pokrovsk with guided aerial bombs, destroying the yellow-and-blue monument at the entrance bearing the city's name. Support UP or become our patron! LONDON (AP) Serious flooding swamped parts of England and snow forced three airports to close temporarily Tuesday as wet and icy weather that was expected to last another day combined to extend travel chaos that has plagued the U.K. since the start of the year. Swaths of the Midlands in England were under water and more than 200 flood warnings were in place at one point as rivers overflowed and continued to inundate villages and drown farmland. A severe flood warning indicating life-threatening conditions was issued for the River Soar in Leicestershire where several trailer parks sit on the flood plain. Aerial photos showed mobile homes in Barrow Upon Soar surrounded by muddy waters and a car sunken up to its windows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several train lines and major roads were also closed because of wet and icy conditions as snow and ice caused disruptions in northern England and Scotland. Airport runways in Manchester and Liverpool in northwest England, and Aberdeen in northeast Scotland, had to close for part of the morning while crews cleared snow. Since Monday, dozens of people have been rescued from flooded homes and stranded cars in the Midlands, and hundreds of schools were closed for the first days of classes this year in northern areas of the U.K. Duaa Abdulal said she was stuck upstairs with her mother and sister in Loughborough, Leicestershire after a repeat event of flooding that damaged the home a year ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thankfully, today we managed to get everything upstairs when we got the flood warning," Abdulal said. Were still recovering from last year, actually, we havent finished refurbishing the house, so its stressful. Much of Britain has been hit by strong winds and periods of precipitation that struck before New Year's Day and snuffed out several fireworks displays and other celebrations. Several communities have faced significant flooding since the start of the year. The body of a man found in a flooded area near the River Aire in northern England was informally identified and North Yorkshire police said they were seeking his family. MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in Wisconsin say a suspect wanted for the sexual assault of a child is hurt after being shot Monday night following a struggle with police. According to a release from the Milwaukee Police Department, officers were on the 2500 block of South 7th Street at 9:37 p.m. looking for a suspect wanted for sexual assault of a child and child enticement. Police say they were informed that the 19-year-old suspect was in a nearby residence and were able to make contact with the man. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While communicating with the suspect, the 19-year-old allegedly pulled out a firearm and a struggle over the firearm ensued between the suspect and two officers. Green Bay man dead, two others injured following head-on crash in Calumet County During the struggle, one officer reportedly fired his own gun, injuring the suspect who was then arrested and taken to a local hospital with non-fatal injuries. Officials say the suspects firearm was recovered and criminal charges are being referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorneys Office. The officer who shot the suspect, a 35-year-old man with eight years of service, was placed on administrative duty per agency policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other information is available at this time and the Milwaukee Police Homicide Unit is continuing to investigate 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 WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) A SWAT standoff in Santa Fe led to more than a dozen arrests over the weekend. Now, News 13 is finding out more about what was going on at the home where it happened. Santa Fe police said it was especially disappointing to see there were minors involved. Its traumatic, I think would be an understatement, said Santa Fe Chief of Police, Paul Joye. Chief Joye says its heartbreaking to see cases where juveniles are put in dangerous situations. This after a shooting sparked a SWAT standoff at a home near Camino Del Bosque on Saturday where 14 adults were arrested, and two minors were found inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santa Fe Fire Department reunited with first fire truck Only causing harm to the children to put them in an environment where theyre seeing things that they have no business seeing and being a part of something they have no business being a part of at such a young age, said Chief Joye. The criminal complaint says the man who was shot and wounded, showed up to a party at the house. The victim told police things escalated after he got into an argument with 49-year-old Joaquin Archuleta. Chief Joye says the shooting occurred over someone being disrespected. Thats when he says Archuleta pulled out a gun and shot him in the kneecap. When police and SWAT arrived, the people inside refused to exit for more than three hours, leading to charges for resisting arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They impeded the execution of a search warrant. They put themselves and our officers and the neighborhood around them in a potentially dangerous situation and everyone went to jail as they should, says Chief Joye. Santa Fe Police arrest duo for armed robbery; third suspect on the run He says one of the adults, Karla Nesslein, is also facing child endangerment charges because she is the guardian of one of the juveniles who was 14 years old. Chief Joye says neighbors play a huge part in helping them tackle problem homes in situations like these. Its important that when people know that theres something going on in their neighborhood, that they help us take ownership of that area and call it in when they see it happening, says Chief Joye. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teen under Nessleins care has been placed with a grandmother. The other teen was also 14 and was on probation and has since been taken to a juvenile detention center in Albuquerque. The shooting suspect, Joaquin Archuleta, is facing charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Credit: Photograph by MANIC PROJECT Shari Frankes memoir starts, fittingly, with an Instagram story. As police officers forced the front door of her familys home open with a battering ram, Shari captured the surreal scene, later posting it to her account for her 621,000 followers. This moment, this climax of my familys descent into madness, needed to be documented, preserved, and shared on social media, she writes. Just like every forced smile, every staged perfection had been, too. This nightmare was born on social media it should die there, too. Shari is the eldest daughter of disgraced family vlogger Ruby Franke, who ran the channel 8 Passengers, which documented Rubys life with her husband Kevin and their six kids, including Shari. They shared their life as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for nearly 2.5 million subscribers until Ruby was arrested on multiple counts of aggravated child abuse, and the channel was taken down. In House of My Mother, Sharis memoir released today through Gallery Books, she invites readers behind the scenes of the tabloid hell into which her family devolved. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ruby was arrested in 2023, after her young son fled the home of her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, and begged a neighbor for help. Police records would later reveal Rubys son appeared emaciated and malnourished, with deep lacerations from being tied up with rope. Frankes young daughter was found in a similar state. Both Ruby and Hildebrandt later pleaded guilty to aggravated child abuse and were sentenced to four to 30 years in prison. Before all of that, the Frankes were YouTube family vlogging royalty, with millions of subscribers tuning in to watch their idyllic life. How did the family fall from those heights to the depths of Ruby being charged with aggravated child abuse? In Sharis charting of the path, the family fundamentally changes when Hildebrandt who ran a counseling business called ConneXions Classroom known for its strict, dogmatic principles enters the scene. As Shari watches, Hildebrandt seems to take over her family even, she reveals for the first time in the memoir, an increasingly close relationship with Ruby and pushing Kevin out of the family home. (Representatives for Ruby and Hildebrandt did not immediately respond to requests for comment.) house of my mother Shari writes about how she became worried about the welfare of her younger siblings, who were then under the care of Ruby and Hildebrandt. She made repeated, desperate calls to the Department of Child and Family Services until, finally, Ruby and Hildebrandt were arrested. Now 21, Shari, who had her privacy traded away for clicks and views as a child, is advocating for protections for the children in family vlogs. As part of that fight and to set the record straight about her family and their downfall Shari has invited the public back in to scrutinize her even further with a heart-wrenchingly personal memoir. Writing the book was a way to take back my privacy, as strange as that sounds, Shari tells Rolling Stone in a wide-ranging, hour-long phone call. Just because it was Ruby who took my voice away and then with the arrest, it was the media then that picked a side of me to portray. The book is Sharis way of correcting the record: her opportunity to share what shes comfortable telling the world about and keep the rest to herself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Shari is comfortable telling, it turns out, is a lot: she writes about herself as a child, worrying her mother didnt love her; her struggles with suicidal ideation, and a relationship with a married church elder that ends in Shari losing access to the church. She writes about stumbling across intimate messages between Hildebrandt and her mother, which led her to believe they were in a romantic relationship though she admits she never pushed for clarity. Its a dizzying book about a mother chasing YouTube fame and finding it; about a family falling into the clutches of an outsider (in her book, Shari calls Hildebrandt our familys very own cult leader [who turned] my mother into a fawning, starstruck acolyte who lapped up her every demented word like it was holy water); about a young girl struggling through a relationship with an older man and wondering if the abuse shes facing is her fault. She was so open in her writing, Shari says, in order to close this chapter of her life once and for all. The reason that I wrote this book is, Hey, everyone, heres how I feel. Please dont speculate and leave the rest alone. To write the book, Shari dove into her stash of journals that she meticulously kept during her childhood, and watched old family vlogs. (Though the familys channel was taken down after Rubys arrest, there are compilations and re-uploads all over YouTube and TikTok.) Reading her words and watching the familys life again was strange. It felt like it wasnt my life, in a way, Shari says. I dont like to watch old vlogs because I dont really remember the things that were filmed, but I can remember the behind the scenes of like, Oh, this was the day that Ruby was yelling, and that wasnt shown, but thats all that I can remember about it. In the videos, the Franke family may appear smiling and joyful when in reality, Shari says, Ruby was yelling at the children to get them to cooperate. It would cut and then the next clip would be, Were happy again, she says. She was very selective about when she turned the camera off and when she started. But the story of the Frankes is not only the story of a family who found viral fame through clever editing tricks, but of a family who fell into the hands of a charismatic would-be therapist. About a third of the way into Sharis memoir, Hildebrandt appears on the recommendation of a family friend as a potential therapist for Sharis younger brother Chad. (Chad is the only sibling Shari names in the book, because he is now an adult and was able to approve of what she included. She left out the names of her four youngest siblings, to extend them the privacy they so rarely had.) With alarming swiftness, Hildebrandt starts therapy with not only Chad but Shari, Ruby, and Kevin. For the remainder of the book, Hildebrandt is a shadow over every page as she seems to take control of the Franke family. At one point, Hildebrandt instructs Ruby to let Hildebrandt take over Shari bedroom. When Shari returns to her bedroom to grab some books she left behind, she finds her room filled with candles and the smell of lavender and vanilla from massage oils. That night, sleeping on the couch in the living room, Shari witnesses her mother sneaking out of Sharis bedroom and it hits her: Ruby is in a relationship with Hildebrandt. It was equal parts fascinating and horrific, she writes. Two women who preached Truth while living lies. Who condemned queerness very publicly in their ConneXions videos, while embodying it privately. In a statement to Rolling Stone, Kevin said he is unaware of to what extent any physical relationship between Ruby and Jodi went, but its pretty clear to all of us now that the relationship went beyond friendship. From my perspective now, I feel like I was replaced with Jodi. Jodi Hildebrandt, left, and Ruby Franke, center, being arrested on child abuse charges on Aug. 30, 2023. In one heartbreaking scene, Shari runs into her father on campus after he has been in the parlance of Hildebrandts teaching invited to leave the family to work on his own shortcomings, which he does. Shari, who by then was attending Brigham Young University, is essentially cut off herself. Their eyes lock and Kevin walks away without talking to his daughter, just giving what Shari describes as a pathetic little grimace. Throughout the book, Kevin is portrayed as kindly but incapable. He could barely keep himself afloat, she writes, let alone throw a lifeline to his drowning children. Kevin tells Rolling Stone the invitation to leave and the ensuing separation was a hellish and abusive experience that he wouldnt wish upon his worst enemy. Ever since the arrest of Ruby, I have been working tirelessly to help my children, my family, and myself heal, Kevin says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shari says she warned her father of what she was going to write about him because she didnt want him to feel blindsided, and because she still has fond memories of him as a dad. Shari and Kevin are working on their relationship, she says, which gets better every day. It helps that Kevin acknowledges his own mistakes to her. He doesnt defend or explain involving us in family vlogging, he takes full responsibility, Shari says. To me, we still have our disagreements, but the fact that hes trying is whats most important to me. As for her mother, Shari has no interest in a relationship. Their last interaction was after Ruby was arrested and Sharis siblings were taken from her custody, when Ruby wrote her daughter a letter in which she reminisced about Sharis baby nursery and lamented not spending more time with her before she went to college. There was no mention of the reason she was writing the letter from prison. Ill never respond to that, Shari says. I dont feel an emotional tie to her anymore. Because of the experience of growing up in a family vlog, Shari doesnt believe family vloggers should exist at all, and since the arrest of her mother, has committed herself to activism to eradicate it. There is no exception, she says. Making money off your kids [with] no oversight as to how much the kids are getting paid theres no way to do that well for me. She worries about the privacy of the kids at the center of these channels and their ability to give informed consent. She doesnt think, as fans claim, that there are family vloggers who do it the right way. In a statement to the Utah State Legislature in support of a proposed bill to protect the rights of underage influencers, Shari said there is no such thing as an ethical or moral family vlogger. She sees her book, too the first memoir from a child influencer as a part of her work to convince the public family vlogging should be put to an end. It definitely feels heavy, but its also something that I feel really driven to do, she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, only three states (Illinois, Minnesota, and California) have laws protecting the rights of child influencers, guaranteeing that some percentage of their earnings will be put into a trust for when they turn 18. She believes that amount should be higher Shouldnt it be 100 percent? but even if kid-influencers were given all of the profits from content theyre featured in, that wouldnt make it right, Shari says. It wouldnt justify it for me, she says. Because the consequences of it growing up with your whole life online, I dont think any amount of money would justify that. With the memoir out, however, shes focused on moving forward. In the spring, shell graduate from BYU with a degree in political science, and she recently announced her engagement on Instagram. (She did not reveal who her fiance is; the caption stated this was the end of sharing my private life.) She wants to live normally, she says, with a job in data analytics or consulting something far from the world of social media. But before she moves on to what is next, Shari will invite people in, one last time, to examine her life. She wants her story to make a difference, especially for other influencer kids. I hope that, by writing this, child influencers will see that their voices matter, she says. And that its worth whatever bridges they might burn. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. LABADIEVILLE, La. (BRPROUD) A 27-year-old Labadieville man accused of using social media to extort teens for pornography was arrested Monday on multiple felony charges. Investigators with the Assumption Parish Sheriffs Office say David Santiago Arvizu coerced two teen girls, both of whom live outside of Louisiana, into providing indecent content and live chatting with him. He had used the inappropriate material he had received from them via social media to extort them into providing more, investigators say. Assumption Parish detectives launched an investigation after the Hernando County Sheriffs Office in Florida, where one of the victims lives, referred the case to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives arrested Arvizu on Monday during a search warrant at a home on 710 Brule Road, during which, they say they found evidence of his role in this case. Arvizu was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center on charges of: Extortion (2 counts) Computer fraud (2 counts) Production of pornography involving juveniles (1 count) Computer-aided solicitation of minors (1 count) Indecent behavior with juveniles (1 count) Arvizu remains incarcerated, as he has yet to have a bond hearing. This is an ongoing investigation, and additional charges may be forthcoming. 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 Louisiana First News. Edmund Wilson hated mysteries. In the 1940s, one of the most respected literary critics in America outlined his objections to the genre in a pair of caustic essays, Why Do People Read Detective Stories? and Who Cares Who Killed Roger Ackroyd? After receiving a deluge of irate responses, Wilson conceded that he had recently been reading himself to sleep with the Sherlock Holmes series, enthralled by its fairy-tale poetry of hansom cabs, gloomy London lodgings, and lonely country estates. He contended, however, that Holmess cases occupied a special category: They are among the most amusing of fairy-tales and not among the least distinguished. If Sherlock Holmes really is the last of the classic fairy-tale heroes, he may also be the first to have been protected by modern intellectual-copyright law. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle introduced Holmes to his loyal companion, Dr. Watson, in the 1887 novel A Study in Scarlet, but the final stories didnt fall out of copyright until January 1, 2023. Now that the characters are unambiguously free to use, numerous Holmes projects are scheduled to premiere or begin filming in the coming year alone, including Guy Ritchies Young Sherlock series on Amazon; Watson, a CBS procedural starring Morris Chestnut; and Sherlock & Daughter with David Thewlis on the CW. Brendan Foley, the creator of Sherlock & Daughter, told me that the escape of Holmes and Watson into the public domain might not be the only explanation for the coming surge, but it certainly didnt hurt. The latest spin-offs can safely ignore the confusing rights issues that plagued earlier adaptations. For the big-budget action movies that Ritchie directed with Robert Downey Jr., Warner Bros. took the extraordinary step of signing agreements with two competing entities that claimed to own Holmes. Robert Doherty, the creator of Elementary, which reimagines Holmes in present-day New York, told me in an email that the rights situation for his CBS series was murky but that a deal was struck out of an abundance of caution: I think the view on the studio side was that the characters were indeed in the public domain. At the same time, all parties wanted to tread very carefully. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the Holmes copyright debacle has finally expired, it offers a preview of even more contentious battles to come. Modern audiences have plenty of experience with the notion of a series character, developed over decades, who inspires both fan worksa concept that Holmes devotees essentially inventedand a seemingly endless string of reboots. For one glaring example, a little more than a decade from now, the public domain will welcome the earliest stories featuring another hero often called the worlds greatest detective: Batman. And his current owners will have every reason to study the playbook of the Doyle estate. The confusion surrounding Holmes stands as a cautionary tale about the manipulation of copyright lawnot by opportunists exploiting a valuable piece of intellectual property, but by the characters official custodians. Last year marked the 50th anniversary of Nicholas Meyers novel The Seven-Per-Cent Solution, which imagined Sigmund Freud treating Holmes for his addiction to cocaine. Its release was delayed for months by negotiations with Doyles copyright holders, resulting in what Meyer now calls no seven-per-cent solution, I promise you. After the novel became a best seller, Meyer wrote five sequels, including last years Sherlock Holmes and the Telegram From Hell, but he told me that he might never have attempted the first novel if he had foreseen the ensuing headaches: I had done a back-of-the-envelope calculation and convinced myself that Holmes was in the public domain. Math is not my strong suit. Yet even for the experts, untangling the facts of the case has always been a three-pipe problemthe kind of mystery that Holmes could solve only after three pipefuls of his favorite shag tobacco. [Read: Sherlock Holmes, unlikely style icon] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the four decades during which Doyle wrote the original stories, international copyright law was rapidly evolving. After the author died in 1930, a colorful array of contenders fought over the rights, including his playboy sons, Denis and Adrian; Deniss widow, the former Princess Nina Mdivani; and the producer Sheldon Reynolds and his wife, Andrea, who had a very public affair with the notorious socialite Claus von Bulow. Eventually, those rights coalesced under the Conan Doyle Estate Ltd., which is overseen by various family members. (There are no direct descendants.) But the confusion didnt end there. The four novels and 46 short stories published before 1923 entered the public domain in 1998. Only the last 10 stories in the series were covered by the Copyright Term Extension Actnicknamed the Mickey Mouse Protection Act, after its most famous beneficiarythat passed later that year, postponing future expirations of some copyrights by decades. Yet the Doyle estate used those late stories as a wedge, arguing that it retained licensing rights for all works featuring Holmes and Watson during the remaining quarter of a century before the final taleswidely seen as the worst of the bunchfell out of copyright. Their claim: The characters didnt assume their definitive form until the series was complete. The estate based its argument on a distinction between flat and round fictional characters first proposed by E. M. Forster in his 1927 book, Aspects of the Novel, a concept frequently invoked in high-school literature classes but never previously tested in court. In its legal filings, the estate drew a contrast between flat characters without depthsuch as Superman and Amos and Andyand round characters such as Holmes, who were capable of complexity and change. Doyle, it said, continued to develop Holmes to the very end, gradually transforming him from a reasoning machine into an empathetic figure who displays affection for women, dogs, and even his long-suffering partner. And it soon became clear that this argument would have enormous implications for copyright holders, who would be motivated to retain control over their characters by changing them incrementally for as long as possible. In 2013, the estate was sued by the prominent Sherlockian Leslie S. Klinger, who refused to pay a licensing fee for an anthology of new Holmes stories by contemporary writers. Klinger said that all of the detectives crucial componentsincluding his bohemian nature and his aptitude for disguisewere established early in the series. (As other commentators have noted, some of Holmess most recognizable characteristicsthe deerstalker cap, the distinctive curved calabash pipe, the phrase Elementary, my dear Watsonnever appeared in Doyles stories at all.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the case was decided in Klingers favor, an appeal ended up before U.S. Circuit Judge Richard Posner, who upheld the ruling and ordered the estate to pay all legal costs, criticizing its strategy as a form of extortion against creators: Its time the estate, in its own self-interest, changed its business model. Yet the lingering fog of uncertainty, as Klingers lawyer described it, allowed the estate to continue policing its claim on elements from the final run of stories, especially their alleged depiction of a more emotional Holmes. In 2015, the estate filed suit against the makers of Mr. Holmes, an Ian McKellen film adapted from a novel by Mitch Cullin, who complained to a reporter, It is cheaper for corporations to settle than go to court, and I believe the estate is not only keenly aware of that reality, but that they bank on it as an outcome. Five years later, it went after the Netflix movie Enola Holmes, contending that the estate owned the stories that defined the version of Holmes stamped in the public mind. Both suits were likely privately settled, but with all rights now expired, the estate has turned to what its head of licensing, Tim Hubbard, described in an email as authenticat[ing] projects and partnerships where our collaborators want to be connected to the source. (The estate declined to address specific questions about its legal strategies or arguments.) [Read: Generative AI is challenging a 234-year-old law] It has also been relieved of the obligation to make an argument that Meyer, the author of The Seven-Per-Cent Solution, succinctly dismissed to me as bullshit. The estate created a false narrative about the character it was supposedly protecting, Meyer argued, ignoring the abundant earlier evidence of what Watson calls the hidden fires smoldering beneath the exterior of the otherwise rational Holmes, who displays humor, empathy, and emotion throughout the series. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One could plausibly claim, as Klinger suggested, that all of the important aspects of the character were there from the very beginning. In his seminal 1910 essay, Studies in the Literature of Sherlock Holmes, the theologian Ronald A. Knox identified 11 elements of the archetypal case. According to Knox, the only story that contained the full list was none other than A Study in Scarlet, which was published in the United States by J. B. Lippincott in 1890. Betsy Rosenblatt, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University, told me that the novels U.S. copyright would have lasted a maximum of 56 years, meaning that the characters should have entered the public domain in America in 1946. If creators had been allowed to independently explore eight decades sooner one of the most popular fictional characters in history, our picture of Holmes might have been immeasurably enriched. These issues arent merely historical or hypothetical. In 2034, the oldest Superman comics will enter the public domain, followed a year later by Batman. Jay Kogan, a senior vice president in charge of legal affairs at DC Comics, has advocated for protecting the companys stake in its superheroes by gradually changing the literary and visual characteristics of a character over time. Whereas Holmes evolved organicallyor so the estate has claimedBruce Wayne might don new costumes only so that a corporation can assert control over the de facto standard of the Dark Knight. Creativity, however, doesnt follow the logic of copyright law. Once a character becomes a cultural possessionwith the fairy-tale quality that enchanted Edmund Wilsoneven a rudimentary form will carry the aura of its other incarnations. As soon as the earliest version of Batman is freely available, creators will benefit from his full history, turning these associations to all kinds of surprising ends. This is exactly why copyrights expire. Holmes and Watson are eternal not because they are mysteriously round, but because they are flat enough to fit into new stories for every generation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement E. M. Forster, who defined these categories in the first place, saw that flatness can be enormously satisfying: We all want books to endure, to be refuges, and their inhabitants to be always the same, and flat characters tend to justify themselves on this account. Doyle himself knew that such reliability could be a source of comfort. In the 1917 story His Last Bow, which transposed the pair from the Victorian era into the Great War, Holmes offered a backhanded compliment to his faithful friend: Good old Watson! You are the one fixed point in a changing age. Article originally published at The Atlantic SHERMAN, Ill. (WCIA) Gerald Schneider, a longtime officer with the Sherman Police Department, died on Jan. 5 after battling cancer. The 47-year-old served as a Seargent for the Illinois Secretary State Police Capitol Division and the Sherman Police Department. UPDATE: Coroner IDs snowplow driver killed in Iroquois Co. train collision In a Facebook post, the department said he battled a serious cancer diagnosis with courage and dignity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, Schneider died at Springfield Memorial Hospital, where he was surrounded by his loved ones, the department added. Visitation for Schneider will be held on Jan. 9 from 4-7 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Sherman, according to his obituary. Funeral services will be held on Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. at the church and burial will be held at Fancy Creek Cemetery immediately following the services. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family, visit the Mott & Henning Funeral Home flower store 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 WCIA.com. AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) One person has been shot following a shooting incident on Springhouse Lane in Augusta on Monday, according to the Richmond County Sheriffs Office. Deputies responded to a call at 7:37 p.m. on the 2300 block of Springhouse Lane, where a male victim was located who has been shot at least one time. He was transported to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. No further information has been provided at this time, as the investigation is in its early stages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Count on WJBF NewsChannel 6 for 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 WJBF. It would be considered Hoosier hospitality to help your fellow neighbors by shoveling the sidewalks outside of your home or property. But clearing that snow is also a requirement in many cities, including Indianapolis. While most people only focus on driveways and walkways, here's what you should know so that you're not violating city code and at risk of being fined. The city doesn't clear sidewalks of snow and ice, that's up to residents and business owners. "We're stronger together and we're all in this together," Auboni Hart, Indy DPW spokesperson, told IndyStar. "We should help each other out by doing our part." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If someone is injured because snow remains on walkways after a certain period, the property owner could be held responsible. How much time do I have to clear snow in Indianapolis before facing fines In Indianapolis, if snow stops falling after 9 a.m., homeowners must shovel their sidewalks by 7 p.m. If the snow is still falling past 7 p.m., they have to remove the snow by 9 a.m. the next morning. How much snow you must clear by Indianapolis city ordinance In Indianapolis, residents have to clear snow and ice around their mailboxes and sidewalks in front of their property. The city requires a 5-foot-wide cleared path along all sidewalks. Keep in mind that you can't leave snow on a public roadway or blocking an alley, which means it must go in your yard or median. How much are fines for not clearing snow in Indianapolis Residents could face a $50 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the city has never issued a fine for the offense, said Dawn Olsen, a Department of Business and Neighborhood Services spokesperson. "When someone reports an un-shoveled sidewalk to the Mayors Action Center, the case is assigned to an inspector," Olsen said. "When our inspectors respond to complaints, they generally provide educational materials and give verbal warnings. Most of the complaints we receive are about commercial properties and properties along main thoroughfares." Why the ordinance? Because clearing the sidewalks helps improve safety and makes it easier for people with disabilities to get where they are going. It also ensures those packages arrive. The United States Postal Service often won't deliver if there isn't a clear and safe path to mailboxes and doors. If your mail comes via curbside delivery, youll need to clear a space around your mailbox. Are renters responsible for shoveling their snow in Indianapolis? Sometimes. Tenants are responsible for shoveling snow at a rental property in Indianapolis if their lease specifies they are responsible for yard maintenance and snow removal or if the tenant has exclusive possession of the yard, sidewalk or exterior, such as a house vs an apartment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While some Hoosiers are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, it still wouldn't be illegal to require even disabled tenants to do snow removal. If sidewalks stay snow-covered it can be reported to the local code enforcement. In Indianapolis, you'd call the Mayors Action Center at 317-327-4622. Beech Grove's ordinance for shoveling sidewalks In Beech Grove, there is no fine for not shoveling snow from your sidewalk, but the city wants residents to know that if somebody walking down your sidewalk is hurt somehow because of the lack of shoveling, you may be liable. Carmel's ordinance for shoveling sidewalks Carmel's city ordinance says that property owners should clean its adjacent sidewalks by noon each day if snow or ice has gathered within the past 24 hours. Especially, after a big snowstorm, they encourage residents to do the best they can and give them grace. Code enforcement will go out and place a doorhanger on your property as a reminder to clear the sidewalks if a complaint is received or if the property is in a high traffic area. Westfield's ordinance for shoveling sidewalks In Westfield, residents are responsible for having snow removed from their sidewalks within 24 hours of the completion of the snowstorm. If the sidewalk cannot be completely cleared due to ice, you are responsible to sprinkle sand, sawdust, or another suitable substance so that such sidewalk shall not be slippery. They also often come out when a complaint it called. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fine for not complying with their ordinance is $25 for each day that it is not cleared. Zionsville's ordinance for shoveling sidewalks In Zionsville, a property owner is responsible for clearing snow from their sidewalks. By law, this has to be done by noon of the second day after it snows. The property owner is required to clear a 4 foot wide path. The Chief of Police encourages residents to call if they need help removing snow. Jade Jackson is a Public Safety Reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formally Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Fined for not shoveling snow? It could happen in Indianapolis TWIN FALLS Ken Robinette needed a job in 1979 to carry him financially through the winter months and was put on a path of fighting poverty in southern Idaho. Robinette began working for South Central Community Action and has stayed with the nonprofit for 45 years, building up a lifetime of memories of helping the economically disadvantaged. He officially retired Dec. 31, but is still hanging around to help with the transition. Robinette has seen homes built, mountains of food boxes distributed, storm windows installed on aging homes, and his involvement with the agency got a start, he says, due to a failure on his part to plan ahead. As a 21-year-old living in Jerome, his family grew potatoes on the family farm and did custom farming. When potato harvest was over in November, Robinette needed a job before agricultural work started back up the next spring. One thing I didnt do as a young kid was I didnt plan properly, Robinette recalls. I didnt have enough money to get me from October to spring. He looked at a newspaper and saw a help wanted ad from South Central Community Action which needed a worker for its weatherization program, and decided to apply. I didnt have a clue on what I was doing, Robinette explained. Someone asked him whether he could run a table saw to which he replied in the affirmative, after two days prior learning how to operate the tool from his grandfather. It was one of a lot of fortunate situations that happened to me, Robinette said. Fast forward a couple of decades later, when the South Central Community Action Partnership was looking to fill the position of chief executive officer. A couple of individuals hired for the position didnt work out, so the board of directors removed the requirement that candidates needed to have a college degree and asked that Robinette apply. He got the job and didnt look back. Now that Robinette has decided to retire, announcing his intentions to the board of directors two years ago, incoming CEO Angie Carter has nothing but good things to say about his accomplishments. Ken has done such a great job, said Carter, who has been with SCCAP for five years, the last two as chief operating officer. She assumed the new position at the start of this year, although Robinette plans to work part time for a couple months as Carter learns the ropes. As I learn more, my goals will become clearer, said Carter, who grew up in Filer and has a masters degree in business administration from Idaho State University. She intends to seek guidance from the nonprofits board of directors, which Robinette said helps keep the organization strong. Several board members have helped me become a better leader, he said. People at other nonprofits appreciate the work Robinette has done. He is a great guy, said Roy Villasenor, manager of the employment and training department at the Community Council of Idaho. He has built great relationships. Villasenor has known Robinette for decades, having the chance to work him as the nonprofits help meet the needs of the community Early years Robinette took his first job, including the starting wage of $3.79/hour, as part of the nonprofits weatherization program. Back then the program involved caulking, putting on wooden storm windows, installing weather stripping and adding insulation to attics. In addition, employees raked leaves and sometimes apples, apricots or other fallen fruit. The idea was to get the home ready for winter. Robinette worked through the winter, and in the spring kept the job while still doing farm work. The arrangement lasted for two years. I had two younger brothers, fortunately, who could help my dad on the farm and he had partners who had kids so they had plenty of help on the farm, Robinette said, so he decided to devote his attention to Community Action. He was hired in 2000 to be executive director but still managed the weatherization program for a few years until another person was hired for that. Since then there have been enjoyable times and many relationships formed as the years flew by. Wow, Robinette said during a Times-News interview on Monday as he looked through scrapbooks containing an almost endless supply of newspaper articles detailing the organizations accomplishments. He remembers the efforts to obtain a grant to build the agencys present building along Washington Street North, and the first 60 Hours to Fight Hunger turkey drive, which included a couple of disc jockeys who asked the community to donate food to help ensure needy families could enjoy a traditional Christmas meal. The event is now a 24-year-old tradition. During one of the first years 60 Hours to Fight Hunger was held, in 2004, Robinette, former disc jockey Branden Rathert and local businessman Con Palous promised to shave their heads if 2,200 turkeys were donated. As the 60 hours neared, it didnt look like they would reach that mark. He said he called his wife saying it was doubtful that he would have to shave his head, but then a Jerome man wrote a large check to purchase turkeys, making up the shortfall. The head-shaving was done live on television. I remember the beautician coming to me and asking, Are you sure you want to do this? said Robinette, who had long hair at that time. Another highlight for Robinette has been traveling to Washington, D.C., to testify on the benefits of the weatherization program. I will remember fondly sitting in front of a panel of eight or nine committee members, he said. Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, was on the committee, so Robinette said he focused on him. And, of course, he will remember people the organization has helped get back on their feet. Battle against poverty When the Community Action program started until President Lyndon Johnson, it was declared as a chance to eradicate poverty, Robinette said. So here we are 60 years later and still fighting that war on poverty, Robinette said. It isnt a winnable war but there are battles we have consistently won but that war will continue. South Central Community Action relies on mostly federal dollars, as well as money raised locally, to provide assistance with food, affordable housing, homeless, utilities, weatherization and homeownership programs. Building community through Self-Help Housing Families began moving in to new houses Friday in Filer after spending the last nine months building homes for themselves and for their neighbors. Last year the agency marked 100 homes built with their self-help housing program, in which future homeowners provide 65% of the labor themselves by committing 35 hours a week with friend and family volunteers. By putting in the sweat equity, the families nnnnnn not have to come up with a down payment and moves into their new homes with an instant equity of usually between $40,000 to $60,000, according to SCCAP. The housing program, which is now aiming for about 130 completed homes, is one of South Central Community Action Partnerships more visible programs, board member Joe Herring said. Thousands of other people receive other assistance, whether it be food, help with utility bills, or in other ways. It could be your next-door neighbor, Herring said. It could be your cousin. Robinette says he hears critics who say that the assistance is all hand-outs, but the help is done with the end-goal of being self-sufficient. The face of poverty has changed, he said, to the point that now sometimes a households two wage-earners still cant make ends meet. Housing and rent are probably the biggest and most shocking factors, he said. Robinette said resources can be limited. The thing a lot of us really hate is when we have to say Sorry, we cant help you, Robinette said. When that happens, they still try to refer them to another nonprofit who can perhaps help. Empty Bowls fundraiser calls attention to the hungry Those colorful bowls used for an annual fundraiser have meaning. South Central Community Action has come a long way since he started working there in 1979, when the winterization program was helping a handful of people, Robinette said. Now, the weatherization assistance program is a science-based program administered by the Department of Energy. The services now provided by SCCAP have grown substantially through the years, he said. In 2023, the agency provided assistance to 17,963 individuals in 7,252 families through its various programs. I think it is one of the strongest nonprofit organizations in the Magic Valley, if not the state of Idaho, Robinette said. For the size we are and the impact we make, it is just unbelievable the services that happen. By Bing Hong Lok (Reuters) - Singapore introduced legislation on Tuesday to safeguard clans and business associations linked to racial groups against foreign interference. If passed, the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Bill will allow a "competent authority" to designate such organisations as "race-based entities". The organisations would then have to disclose foreign and anonymous donations, foreign affiliations and their leadership composition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government can also impose a restraining order to stop an entity from accepting donations from a foreign principal, prohibit anonymous donations or require the entity to return or dispose of donations. In a media statement, the home affairs ministry said: "Singapore is vulnerable to external actors exerting malicious foreign influence to exploit race or undermine our racial harmony, to achieve their agenda. Organisations that promote the interests of a racial group or sub-group are potential entry points for such influence." Singapore's resident population is 74% Chinese, 13.6% Malay, and 9% Indian; 3.3% is classified as others. Last year, Singapore designated businessman Chan Man Ping Philip as a "politically significant person" for activities that advanced the interests of an unspecified foreign country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A naturalised citizen of Singapore, Chan had attended the annual session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference in Beijing and told local media the overseas Chinese community should form an "alliance" and "tell the China story well". Chan has ties to the Chinese-ruled city of Hong Kong, where he was born, and he was the president of the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association. The proposed legislation will also allow the home affairs minister to issue restraining orders against individuals involved in "content that prejudices the maintenance of racial harmony in Singapore". The bill must be read twice more in parliament, including a vote, and be presented to the president for approval. (Reporting by Bing Hong Lok. Editing by Gerry Doyle) SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A local church is once again holding a large celebration on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Restoration Church in Sioux City will be holding the birthday celebration on Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. It will feature a variety of speakers, including Dr. Terry Murrell, president of Western Iowa Tech Community College. Northwest Iowa hospital gets nearly $1.5M grant from state One particularly memorable part of the annual proceedings is the choir. The group contains all kinds of people from across Siouxland, and is open to all even to those who dont normally sing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sandra Pearson with Restoration Church stopped by the KCAU 9 studio on Monday to share more details on the celebration. You can view that full interview in the video player 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Sioux City council members remain affixed on the number of car dealerships in the city. On Monday, the council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that would put a one-year moratorium on future growth in the city limits. The moratorium, which still needs a second and third reading before it could go into effect, would run for one year beginning Jan. 10. New ice cream soda shop coming to Sioux City Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are currently 67 car lots in the city. The embargo would allow city staff to analyze and research the population to car lot ratios in other similarly-sized Iowa cities. What system, what formula did they use to see what they should have and what they shouldnt have? And whats too many, whats too few? Sioux City Mayor Pro Tem Dan Moore said. I think thats a very difficult question to answer, and so were going to look at what different cities about our size have done. Not only in Iowa, but well probably look in Nebraska and probably look at South Dakota. City staff had previously identified 67 auto sales dealers in the city. Moore admitted he couldnt remember receiving any correspondence from anyone complaining about the number of dealerships, or offering concerns about a moratorium. The second and third readings for that ordinance could come up at next weeks meeting. 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. CAMPBELL COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) The Campbell County Sheriffs Office has announced that Operation Buyer Beware has resulted in the arrest of six men connected to prostitution charges. The point of Operation Buyer Beware was to send a very clear message to people who are contributing to sex trafficking in Campbell County, said Sheriff Whit Clark. Treating peoples bodies as commodities that can be bought or sold is as wrong today as it was at any other time in history. This type of activity fuels sex trafficking in our communities, and it must not be tolerated. LPD arrest third man in connection to 2024 murder of Anthony Dwight Davis Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriff said that on January 2, the CCSO Crime Suppression Unit arrested and charged the following people with Solicitation of Prostitution: Joseph A Fitzgerald, 45, of Buena Vista, VA Gregory W Cavaliere, 56, of Lynchburg, VA Tyler R Seamster, 28, of Saxe, VA Richard R Riley, 52, of Madison Heights, VA Quinton I Calloway, 27, of Lynchburg, VA Mauricio Carmona, 44, of Lynchburg, VA Officials with the CCSO said the operation was to reduce the demand for sexual activity that drives sex trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable community members. The Sheriffs Office will continue to collaborate with our community allies and law enforcement partners to make this area inhospitable to human trafficking. The Campbell County Sheriffs Office encourages community members to get trained to recognize human trafficking and to report suspicious activity to the Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 and to the Campbell County Sheriffs Office at 434-332-9580. Training is available from our local partner Freedom 424 and from Virginia DCJS. 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 WFXRtv. For the first time in the history of the use of the Fighting Falcon, an F-16 fighter destroyed six Russian cruise missiles in one combat mission, two of them with an aircraft gun, during a large-scale missile and drone attack in December 2024. Source: Yurii Ihnat, Head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force Command, on Facebook Details: On 13 December, a large-scale Russian air attack occurred: almost 200 Russian drones, Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, ballistic missiles and 94 air-, sea- and land-based cruise missiles were in the sky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruise missiles are the main target of Ukrainian fighter jets. Intercepting such important targets is not an easy task for a pilot, but Ihnat notes that Ukrainian pilots have the most experience in combat operations against cruise missiles. Under the wings of the F-16, the Ukrainian pilot had only four air-to-air missiles: medium- and short-range. The longer-range missiles were used first, and then the pilot had to get within about two miles (about 3.2 km) to use the short-range missiles. Quote from the pilot: "The navigator is guiding me to the enemy targets; a group of eight cruise missiles is on course. I reach the appropriate distance and see obstacles, which means that the missiles have their electronic warfare, the so-called personal electronic warfare system. The F-16's sight is quite powerful, and if the target is already in the scope, even under the influence of electronic warfare, it will not escape the onboard radar. I flew up to a convenient distance, captured the targets, launched the missiles one by one, and hit both targets were destroyed! I approached the second pair [of missiles], captured the missiles, and saw that they were also echoing the Russian electronic warfare system, but it didn't help them much. The first launch hit the target, and the second one, too! I was on cloud nine because I saw all the hits on the enemy missiles with my eyes! Some fuel remained in the overhead tanks, and the combat work continuedThe guidance navigator commanded me to go to the duty area to let my brother-in-arms on the Su-27 work on targets." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The pilot followed orders from the command post and moved to the designated area. However, another Russian cruise missile came on his course, heading towards the capital. The pilot decided to take a chance and use a very-high-speed aircraft gun. Quote from the pilot: "I realised there were few chances to hit a missile flying at 650 km+. First, I had to find it in the sky, get to the same altitude and hit it from a distance of no more than one and a half kilometres. And flying closer is extremely dangerous if a 450-kilogram warhead detonates, there is a high risk of the aircraft flying into a cloud of wreckage." More details: In the United States, pilots learned how to shoot down air targets with an aircraft gun exclusively in simulators. In real flight, Ukrainian F-16 pilots have never used the aircraft gun against missiles. This time, everything went perfectly. Quote from the pilot: "At first, I was looking for a target below [I saw] nothing. Then I increased the height, raised the radar and saw it. I did everything as the instructors in the US had taught me, as I had practised on the simulator. A few rounds from the gun and an explosionthen another! A second detonationI thought, but as it turned out, according to the results of objective control, there were two missiles! They flew in a vertical line next to each other. The enemy often launches them in such a tactical configuration. A group of enemy missiles can fly close to each other so the enemy sees them as one target. Well, I probably set a record that day. However, the main thing is the result! I'm glad I succeeded, and I dedicate this success to all my brothers-in-arms who have gone into eternal flight before they could see the F-16 in the Ukrainian sky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Yurii Ihnat: "Yes, we have received from our partners not very new modifications of the F-16 [after all, like other ground weapons]; we do not have powerful radars and long-range missiles on these aircraft to compete in air battles with Russian technological aircraft alone, but young Ukrainian pilots prove every day that they are the best, whether in the cockpit of a Soviet or American fighter! Just imagine what a formidable deterrent in the centre of Europe will be the war-hardened Ukrainian pilots when the Air Force receives, say, F-35s!" Support UP or become our patron! In the Harmony Montgomery case, its one of the biggest unanswered questions: why did a Massachusetts judge grant custody of the five year old child to her father, Adam Montgomery, a convicted violent felon? Months after Adam gained custody of Harmony, she disappeared. In 2024, Adam Montgomery was convicted of killing and dismembering his daughter. She has never been found. New Englands Unsolved: The search for Harmony Montgomery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the SJC, an attorney for a documentary filmmaker argued for releasing the sealed files of a February 2019 Family Court hearing that resulted in Adam gaining custody of Harmony. Nobody knows. Not the legislature, not anybody outside the parties themselves and the OCA (Office of the Child Advocate), knows exactly what happened during that hearing that resulted in the court granting custody, attorney Jennifer Lamanna argued on behalf of LC Media. Some justices appeared to agree with the filmmaker. This is one of those extreme cases where maybe the veil of privacy should be pierced, Justice Delila Argaez Wendlandt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By state law, family court hearings are kept sealed for privacy reasons. But at this hearing, justices challenged whether in this case continuing that official silence does more harm. Defense attorney Caroline Smith displays a photograph of Kayla Montgomery, Adam Montgomery's estranged wife, to the jury during closing arguments in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Adam Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony Montgomery. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Crystal Sorey, Harmony Montgomery's biological mother, covers her ears as prosecutors present their closing argument in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Crystal Sorey, Harmony Montgomery's biological mother, cries as she listens to the prosecution's closing argument in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony. At right is Michelle Raftery, Harmony Montgomerys foster parent. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Senior Assistant New Hampshire Attorney General Benjamin Agati shows the jury a bag that the prosecution claims was used by Adam Montgomery to store his dead daughter's body during closing argument in Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crystal Sorey, Harmony Montgomery's biological mother, cries as she listens to the prosecution's closing argument in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Defense attorney Caroline Smith displays a photograph of Harmony Montgomery to the jury during her closing argument in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Members of the Manchester Police Department listens during to closing arguments in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Senior Assistant New Hampshire Attorney General Benjamin Agati shows the jury a photograph of the defendant during closing arguments in Adam Montgomery's trial, Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is accused of killing his 5-year-old daughter Harmony, pictured at left. (Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via AP, Pool) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 02-21-24: Manchester, NH: The trial of Adam Montgomery (not pictured) who is charged with murdering his five year old daughter Harmony continued today inside Courtroom 1 at the Hillsborough County Superior Court. Pictured is Senior Assistant New Hampshire Attorney General Benjamin Agati (right) as during closing arguments he shows the jury a photograph of the defendant, who he told them murdered his daughter, whose photo is on the screen at left. (Jim Davis for the Boston Globe). Rebecca Maines testifies during the trial of the Adam Montgomery at Hillsborough County Superior Court, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is facing second-degree murder and other charges in the death of his daughter, Harmony. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) Judge Amy Messer, seated at center, listens to defense and prosecution attorneys during the trial of the Adam Montgomery at Hillsborough County Superior Court, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is facing second-degree murder and other charges in the death of his daughter, Harmony. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manchester, N.H. Police Capt. Matthew Larochelle listens to an audio recording of Adam Montgomery during the trial of the Montgomery at Hillsborough County Superior Court, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is facing second-degree murder and other charges in the death of his daughter, Harmony. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) Judge Amy Messer, seated at right, listens to defense and prosecution attorneys as witness Rebecca Maines, left, waits on the witness stand during the trial of the Adam Montgomery at Hillsborough County Superior Court, Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. Montgomery is facing second-degree murder and other charges in the death of his daughter, Harmony. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, Pool) The father has been convicted of killing the child. The child is deceased, the obvious interest is making sure this child hasnt died in vain, were not going to do this again. Were going to do everything humanly possible to not make the same mistakes again, right? Isnt that the legitimate interest here? SJC Justice Scott Kaftker asked. Because the intimacy, the intimate nature of the details in that exist in care and protection cases warrant confidentiality, Kristin Stone Braithwaite, attorney for Department for Children and Families answered. Adam Montgomery, who is in prison in New Hampshire is not fighting the request. However, at the hearing, we learned that Crystal Sorey, Harmonys birth mother, does not want the entire file released for privacy reasons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The SJCs decision is not expected for several weeks. Why did a MA judge grant Adam Montgomery, a convicted violent felon, custody of his daughter Harmony, months before he murdered her? SJC considers releasing confidential records. My story @boston25 4,5,6pm pic.twitter.com/mx7T2JVGxK Bob Ward Boston 25 (@Bward3) January 6, 2025 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 newly formed Skokie sub-committee could assist the village in increasing affordable housing by allowing more housing to be built and analyzing Skokies housing needs. The villages Housing Sub-Committee was stocked with new members in December and given new tasks at its first meeting on Jan. 2 at the Skokie Public Library. The village board will assign the sub-committee to make recommendations to allow accessory dwelling units. Commonly known as ADUs or in-law suites, they are typically smaller homes built on the same property as a single-family home At its meeting, the sub-committee created two groups of three commissioners to take on projects laid out by the Village Board and the Plan Commission. The villages Community Development Director, Johanna Nyden directed much of the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nyden said there were no immediate deadlines for the projects, giving the volunteer commissioners as much time as they needed. The first group, formed by commissioners Katherine Niedorowski, Paul Schroeckenstein, and Maegan Aekers, will focus on a housing needs assessment to identify and understand housing gaps and recommend policy. The second group, formed by commissioners Erin Ryan, Johnathan Lavin, and Ellen Weber, will focus on giving policy recommendations on best practices for ADUs in Skokie. We want this to be a very working group, Nyden said. We dont want us to bring you all together to share information with you and then have you react to it. I think theres a lot of subject matter experts here these individuals will help some of the research and some of the thinking about how we would put these items together and not just have it be a staff lead process. The commissioners have experience in the housing and economic industries. Niedoroski is a Senior Manager of Partnerships and Programs at Chicago Funders Together to End Homelessness; Schroeckenstein is a director at bKL Architecture; Aekers is Westfield Old Orchards new General Manager; Ryan is the CEO of Shore Community Services; Lavin is a retired CEO of AgeOptions; and Weber is a real estate agent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a September 2024 memo, Trustee James Johnson requested that Mayor George Van Dusen put ADUs on the agenda of a village board meeting where the board can consider allowing them by the end of 2024. They (ADUs) can serve as housing for caregivers, extended family members, or be leased to help bring new income to properties to keep homes affordable for property owners, Johnsons memo states. Approximately one-third of the land use in Skokie is devoted to single-family housing units, and the creation of new smaller housing units supports utilizing this land for new housing in a landlocked community, Johnson wrote in the memo. An Oct. 25 memo from the Village Managers Office said that the Housing Sub-Committee will be responsible for considering ADUs. The memo acknowledged Johnsons requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The village board was scheduled to refer the matter to the Housing Sub-Committee on Jan. 6. The village has been pursuing ADUs and conducting a housing needs assessment in Skokie for some time. In 2023, the village board tasked the villages Plan Commission to come up with an affordable housing ordinance. Nyden also suggested a housing needs assessment and allowing ADUs, among other targets and goals. Responding to why the Plan Commission did not move forward with those plans at the time, Nyden said in an email, The Plan Commission provided a series of policy recommendations to the Village Board in 2023, the Village Board prioritized an inclusionary housing ordinance and the adoption of the housing chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. The village board approved an affordable housing ordinance in May 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nyden said the village had never placed an outright ban on ADUs, but that the villages zoning code, parking requirements, and building codes have restricted the ability for homeowners to add an accessory unit. In May 2023, the village board approved a temporary Housing Sub-Committee to report to the Plan Commission to assist the village in updating its Housing Chapter of the villages Comprehensive Plan, which was written and approved some 20 years ago, according to Nyden. Per village documents, the updated housing chapter will guide the Housing Sub-Committee to make recommendations to the Plan Commission, which will then give recommendations to the village board. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS ) and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART ) announced the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends, a necessary step to get the next portion of Skyline operations online on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Vance Tsuda, left, Lori Kahikina, Jon Nouchi and Roger Morton were on hand for the announcement at the Hatawa Aloha Stadium station. 1 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS ) and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART ) announced the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends, a necessary step to get the next portion of Skyline operations online on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Vance Tsuda, left, Lori Kahikina, Jon Nouchi and Roger Morton were on hand for the announcement at the Hatawa Aloha Stadium station. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A commuter exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A commuter exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station on Monday. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Monday the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends. 3 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Monday the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, commuters exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 4 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, commuters exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The City and County of Honolulu Department of Transportation Services (DTS ) and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART ) announced the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends, a necessary step to get the next portion of Skyline operations online on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Vance Tsuda, left, Lori Kahikina, Jon Nouchi and Roger Morton were on hand for the announcement at the Hatawa Aloha Stadium station. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A commuter exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station on Monday. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services and the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Monday the upcoming Skyline passenger service closure for two weekends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, commuters exited the Halawa Aloha Stadium Station. The Honolulu Department of Transportation Services announced Monday that Skyline passenger service on two segments of its planned three-segment rail line will shut down for two consecutive weekends. Skylines closure, which begins this weekend, is part of the unification process between rails testing segment that runs past the airport, and its currently operating segment from East Kapolei to Halawa, DTS said. A third segmentfrom Kalihi to Kakaakois set to be completed and open to the public by 2031. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skyline ridership on weekdays, Monday through Friday, will not be affected, according to DTS. However, there will be no Skyline service on :Saturday, Jan. 11. 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.Sunday, Jan. 12.Saturday, Jan. 18.Sunday, Jan. 19. All Skyline stations currently in operation will be closed to the public during these affected weekends. The closure is necessary to accommodate critical testing procedures for the fully automatic, driverless trains running on Skylines second operating segment, DTS said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second operating segmentwhich consists of 5.2 miles of rail guideway from the Aloha Stadium Station, past the airport, to the Middle Street Transit Centeris being tested in advance of an anticipated public opening by the end of 2025. Segment 2 of Skyline will add the following stations to the existing system :Makalapa Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam.Lelepaua Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.Ahua Lagoon Drive.Kahauiki Middle Street Transit Center. The purpose for the shutdown is to allow our contractor, Hitachi, to migrate over control systems so that our new Segment 2, with service to the airport and to Middle Street, can begin to operate under the primary control system, DTS Director Roger Morton said Monday morning during a news conference at the Halawa Aloha Stadium Skyline Station. And so thats a big milestone for us and a big milestone for our community. He added, The public will not be allowed to ride on the trains until we turn over the system, but theyre going to see more activity going on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to apologize to our riders for this necessary shutdown, Morton said. I know that we are going to be inconveniencing somewhere (between ) 2, 100 to 2, 500 people per day (on Saturdays and Sundays ) because of this shutdown. Skyline ridership during the weekdays averages 3, 700 to 4, 100 people per day, according to Morton. Moreover, the DTS director noted the loss of weekend revenue for the mandatory shutdown would be in the low thousands of dollars. Its not really a significant item, said Morton. People that continue to use transit (pay ) one fare no matter whether they use the bus or rail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, he said its better to do this work in a planned way than to do it in a sort of a helter-skelter way, and thats why were taking the time to do it right. Skyline will reopen with regular weekday operations at 5 a.m. Monday and at 8 a.m. Jan. 20. But Jan. 20 is a city holiday schedule, due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day. For weekend Skyline riders affected by these planned closures, DTS said alternative service on TheBus is available between the following stations :Kualakai East Kapolei and Keoneae University of Hawaii, West Oahu Skyline Station : Routes C, 46, 416, 461.Keoneae UH West Oahu and Hoaeae West Loch Station : Route 40.Hoaeae West Loch Station and Pouhala Waipahu Transit Center Station : Routes 40, 42, E, W1.Pouhala Waipahu Transit Center and Waiawa Pearl Highlands Station : Routes 40, 42.Waiawa Pearl Highlands to Kalauao Pearlridge Station : Routes 40, 42, 51.Kalauao Pearlridge to Halawa Aloha Stadium Station : Routes A, 32, 40, 42, 51. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waiawa Pearl Highlands Skyline Station will have normal weekend TheBus service including Routes 531, 532, 533 and 535 so riders can access Pearl Highlands Center and the surrounding neighborhood, DTS said. There is no connecting TheBus service at Honouliuli Hoopili and Halaulani Leeward Community College Skyline stations. Station operators will be at each station to help riders with connections to TheBus routes and wayfinding, DTS said. At Halawa Station one Skyline rider, Kaili Swan, was concerned over the loss of train service during the shutdown process. Im a weekday commuter and a weekend commuter, Swan, a custodian at James Campbell High School in Ewa Beach, told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. I ride the Skyline every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation said Segment 2s opening will occur at the end of the year. The airport segments opening date was previously scheduledalbeit two years agofor mid-2025. At the news conference, HART Executive Director and CEO Lori Kahikina said the end-of-the-year deadline to open is set. We still have a lot of work to do, she added. Meanwhile, Kahikina would not comment on Hitachi Rail Honolulu JVs more than $324.1 million lawsuit filed in 1st Circuit Court against the city and HART on Dec. 20. Famous for Japans iconic high-speed bullet train, Hitachi was hired by HART in 2011 on a $1.4 billion contract. In return the company was to design, build, operate and maintain the citys cutting-edge fleet of electric trains, expected to run along the 18.75-mile elevated guideway system to 19 stations. However, Hitachis lawsuit alleges HARTs seeming dysfunction to set timely schedules caused cost increases to go off the tracks by tens of millions of dollarsexpenses the train company says its been forced to solely absorb. When asked why she would not comment on Hitachis complaint, Kahikina said, Its a lawsuit. We dont talk about lawsuits. For more information on Skyline, visit. For further information on TheBus routes, visit. Those close to Jonathan Gant say hes a man with a big heartand now it needs mending. Im proud to call him my friend, Tabarak Farah told KIRO 7. On Dec. 24, his life changed foreverthe 40-year-old from Skyway suffered an aortic dissection a tear in his heart. It happened while he was in the Philippines. John just fell in love with the people here, Tabarak said. John met a group of children in one of the villages that captured his heart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was like, I have to do something for them. He told me he wanted to go get gifts for them, Tabarak told KIRO 7. During his shopping trip the unthinkable happened. He collapsed right in front of the mall, he couldnt see straight, his chest hurt, he fell down and he almost doesnt remember anything about that time period, Tabarak said. He was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. He needed to undergo surgery to repair the tear, but Tabarak says they ran into a problem: a blood shortage. The hospital said it could only provide six out of the 15 bags needed for the surgery. They asked us to help source the blood, Tabarak told KIRO 7. Were not from the Philippines, we dont know the system, we dont know anybody here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Racing against the clock, he enlisted the help of their other close friend, Alicia Cunningham. Across the globe and in different time zones -- they searched for O-positive donors. Without that blood, they would not do surgery, Tabarak said. If he did not get surgery he would pass away. That was it. We needed to get people in the chair. Alicia began posting on social media and reaching out to anyone who might have a friend or family member in the area asking them to donate. I was able to make a post and I found six people, she told KIRO 7. One person was at the hospital with Tabarak 20 minutes after I made that post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without the surgery, his friends said he wouldnt have made it past the weekend. Unfortunately theres still a long road ahead of them. Alicia shared with KIRO 7 that Jonathan has Marfan Syndrome. Its a genetic disorder that affects the bodys connective tissue and can cause a wide range of physical and medical issues. She also noted that his arteries are uniquely shaped; they are wider at the top and smaller at the bottom. She said doctors there are unsure what to do next. Any physicians that specialize in Marfans that can maybe talk to the doctors in Cebu, we are looking for that to help save his life. Alicia and Tabarak told KIRO 7 that friends and family have put together a GoFundMe to help pay for Jonathans hospital bills. If youd like to donate, you can click here. SLIDELL, La. (WGNO) Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer will be leaving his position more than a year early to take a job with Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landrys office. Cromer will be working with Landrys administration as a Legislative Affairs Officer at the Department of Transportation and Development. Where to get a Dong Phuong king cake in Greater New Orleans in 2025 It is with a heavy heart that I announce that I am stepping down as your Mayor. It has truly been one of the most difficult decisions of my life, said Cromer. Serving the citizens of Slidell has been the best and most rewarding job of my career. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was elected as the 22nd Mayor of the City of Slidell in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. King Cake Hub opens for Carnival Season 2025 Slidell officials said some of Cromers achievements during his time as mayor included investing in recreational facilities like new pickleball courts, a skatepark and renovating tennis courts. Cromers last day as mayor will reportedly be Jan. 20, and a special election will be held in October. Slidell Councilmember Bill Borchert will serve as interim mayor and take office on Jan. 21. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts 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 WGNO. (Reuters) - Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico will discuss the end of Russian gas transit through Ukraine with representatives of the European Commission on Jan. 9 in Brussels, Slovakia's government office said on Tuesday. Supplies through Ukraine stopped on Jan. 1 after a transit agreement between Ukraine and Russia expired, but Fico had been keen to continue receiving Russian gas through that route and threatened to retaliate against Ukraine for what he said were large economic losses for Slovakia. (Reporting by Jan Lopatka in Prague) CONCORD, N.H. (AP) Marin Plank truly had no interest in birds when she gave her husband a camera-equipped bird feeder for his birthday. But by Christmas, she had become so obsessed with it that most of the gifts she received this year books, stickers, notecards were bird-related. This is who I am now, she said. Acquaintances have stopped Plank on the street to discuss the bird photos she shares on Facebook. From copious amounts of research, she now knows the best birdseed blend and has a premium membership to a store that delivers giant bags of it to her Delaware home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It all started when she got her first postcard from the Bird Buddy app, which provides photos and video clips that can be downloaded or shared. Youve just got to click, and then the bird is in your face looking at you and mugging for you, and its like your own little private show, she said. Something about their little eyes and their goofy little faces just drew me in, and now Im a bird enthusiast. While North American bird populations decline dramatically, paradoxically, the number of people watching them has increased. While the coronavirus pandemic spurred many people to head outside in search of birds, for others, smart feeders that snap photos and video of backyard visitors have brought the hobby inside. It really delivers value with very little input, said Franci Zidar, founder and CEO of Bird Buddy, which has sold 350,000 smart bird feeders since 2022. If youre actually kind of a hardcore bird watcher, that can be a very demanding hobby. There are, however, 20 to 30 species of birds in most U.S. backyards that people either dont really know or appreciate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several other companies, including Birdfy, make similar bird feeders that are mounted with cameras. And while standard bird feeders tap into peoples altruistic sides by allowing users to take care of animals, smart feeders take it a step further, Zidar said. Ultimately, I think it marries two really beautiful things. One is your need to nurture and to give back and to connect with nature, and the other one is to kind of see it and appreciate it, he said. Bird Buddy has proven so successful that the company is expanding its portfolio to include a tiny flower-shaped camera called Petal, and Wonder Blocks, which can be assembled to provide habitats for butterflies and other insects. Details were announced Monday at CES, formerly known as the Consumer Electronics show, in Las Vegas, with a Kickstarter campaign this spring. Lets not ask people to do crazy things, because they wont. Lets just give them value by just pointing a camera into this beautiful natural space, Zidar said. Well give you the drama, the happenings, the life thats happening in that corner of your home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Ipswich, Massachusetts, Judy Ashley already had 11 bird feeders in her yard when she got a Bird Buddy last year. She has taken down some of the older feeders in hopes of attracting more birds to the camera to capture photos of those hanging out lately in her yard, especially a yellow-throated warbler, which is rarely seen in New England. She finally succeeded on Monday. Whats amazing is how close you can see the details of backyard birds that you just wouldnt see if you just stood there for hours with binoculars, she said. You just realize how amazing nature is. Rachel Matthews in Austin, Texas, has three camera-equipped feeders, including one specifically for hummingbirds. While she grew up with bird feeders, the smart feeders have increased her interest, she said. I love having the camera, and I see detail that even with my binoculars Id never seen," she said. "The female cardinals with their red eyebrows and little feathers its just phenomenal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November, the National Audubon Society announced a partnership with Bird Buddy to increase awareness about bird conservation. The arrangement could provide a pathway to get data from the companys community science platform to scientists, said Nicolas Gonzalez, a spokesperson for the Audubon Society. Were eager to see how smart feeders and kind of just the whole bird-feeding industry can continue fostering this appreciation for birds and nature, he said. In Delaware, Plank has grown attached to specific visitors to her feeder a badass female Red-winged blackbird, a tufted titmouse who she said seems to know hes handsome and blue jays who act like drunk uncles. I give them these personalities in my mind, and its about having them right in front of my face, doing their little silly things, she said. That really has drawn me in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, too, have the frequent alerts and notifications she gets on her phone. Its just like a little spark of joy, she said. Theres something about being interrupted to remind you about this little part of the world that is just really lovely. The federal judge in Florida who previously dismissed the classified documents case against President-elect Donald Trump that state has now temporarily blocked the release of special counsel Jack Smiths final report of his investigation. On Monday evening, Waltine Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, Trumps co-defendants in the classified documents case, filed an emergency motion to Judge Aileen Cannon requesting that she prohibit Smith from releasing the report. Despite this Courts concluding that Smith is unconstitutionally appointed and funded, and despite ongoing proceedings against Defendants Waltine Nauta and Carlos De Olivera, Special Counsel Smith, in defiance of this Courts rulings, is determined to have the final word by pushing forward with issuing and transmitting a final report, their attorneys argued, which Attorney General Garland is certain to make immediately public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the defendants, who worked for Trump, and the president-elect himself pleaded not guilty in the case. The two-volume report is expected to describe charging decisions made in separate investigations by Smith into Trumps hoarding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Also, on Monday night, Trumps attorneys wrote a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland requesting that Smiths report not be published. In his letter to Garland, Trump attorney Todd Blanche argued that Smith was unlawfully appointed to the position of special counsel the key reason Cannon dismissed the case last July. Thus, if his final report were to be published, it would violate the Appointments Clause and the Appropriations Clause, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rather than acknowledging, as he must, President Trumps complete exoneration, Smith now seeks to disseminate an extrajudicial Final Report to perpetuate his false and discredited accusations. ... It is clear, as has been the case with so many of the other actions of Smith and his staff, that the Draft Report merely continues Smiths politically-motivated attack, and that his continued preparation of the Report and efforts to release it would be both imprudent and unlawful, Blanche said. In her ruling on Tuesday, Cannon, who was appointed by Trump in his first term, barred the report from being shared with anyone outside of the Justice Department until the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has time to review Trumps motion to dismiss the report. Former President Donald Trump visits with campaign volunteers at the Elks Lodge, July 18, 2023, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. | Charlie Neibergall The same Atlanta Appeals Court is also reviewing Smiths appeal against Cannons dismissal of the case, which stemmed from questions surrounding his allegedly unlawful appointment. The Emergency Motion, filed to preserve the status quo, seeks immediate injunctive relief to prevent irreparable injury from the reported imminent release to the public of a Final Report prepared by Special Counsel Smith, Cannon said in her court order Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith responded in a filing that Garland would not release the report to the public if he does at all until at least Friday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m. ET. N.Y. Appeals Court rejects Trumps delay request Also on Tuesday, a New York appeals court judge dismissed Trumps last-minute request to postpone his Friday sentencing and delay any other proceedings in the criminal case that found him guilty of all 34 counts against him last May. Trumps request to the New York Appellate Court only came after Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the criminal case, denied the president-elect the right to postpone his sentencing on Monday. At a hearing before the ruling was made, Appellate Court Judge Ellen Gesmer questioned both parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blanche argued during the hearing that Trump should be protected from conviction because of the Justice Department laws allowing presidential protection from criminal proceedings while in office. Do you have any support for the notion that presidential immunity extends to the president-elect? Gesmer asked, per The Associated Press. Theres never been a case like this before. So no, Blanche said. With the Friday sentencing just 10 days from Trumps presidential inauguration, he will become the first president to enter office convicted of crimes. Merchan did permit Trump to video in to the sentencing rather than in person. Smyrna officials, firefighters and residents celebrated the fast-growing town's Fire Station 4 opening Monday on Jefferson Pike near Interstate 840. Prior to the outdoor ribbon cutting, about 150 people gathered at the large station garage with newly- painted shiny red doors and fresh brick adorning the $10.7 million building. The project funds included $7.1 million from a federal American Rescue Plan grant. Smyrna Fire Chief William Culbertson cuts a ribbon while surrounded by others during an opening ceremony at Smyrnas Fire Station 4, along Jefferson Pike, on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Audience chairs sat where fire engines typically would be parked behind the two closed bay doors on the cold winter day to hear speeches from Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed, new Town Manager David Santucci, soon-to-retire Fire Chief William "Bill" Culbertson and others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor talked about how the new fire station will help the town decrease response times for firefighters arriving to fires and other emergencies. The 14,230-square-foot station includes eight single bedrooms for the firefighters on duty, as well as a tornado safe space in the information technology closet. "It's an exciting day today," said Reed, who noted the town has added about 16,000 residents since opening the previous fire station when Smyrna had a population of about 39,000. "I'm thrilled to be here." Prior to the speeches, people present stood for the Smyrna Fire Department Honor Guard to march to the front of the ceremony audience with flags of the nation, state and town. The event included the audience and speakers reciting the Pledge of Alliance, and listening to a Christian prayer from Smyrna Police Department Chaplain Tim York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smyrna transportation plans: Smyrna Depot District pedestrians will gain sidewalks at railroad crossing, other projects Fire Station 4 will serve future growth near race track The Smyrna Fire Department Honor Guard presented the flags during an opening ceremony at SmyrnaOs Fire Station 4, along Jefferson Pike, on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. The mayor also complimented the "stunning" architecture of the new station that will ensure "a safer community for all of us." "This is the most beautiful fire station I have ever seen," Reed said. Smyrna government officials, the mayor said, are committed to "our fire department" providing services every single day. Reed after her speech told The Daily News Journal that the firefighters based at the new station also will serve the town's future growth on the far north side of Rutherford County near the Nashville Superspeedway that's located off I-840 in Wilson County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smyrna officials collaborated with experts from the University of Tennessee Municipal Technical Advisory Service to craft plans on locating fire stations, the mayor said. Road planning: Smyrna's Enon Springs Road West extension leads to desired I-24 interchange SRM donations help Fire Station 4 project The Smyrna government was able to build the station, as well, through a donation of land, rock excavation and grading work by the Hollingshead family and the family's Smyrna Ready Mix (SRM) business, Town Manager Santucci confirmed with The Daily News Journal after the ceremony. The property for the project also provides space for a future Emergency Medical Service ambulance station, Santucci told the audience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SRM has a nearby headquarters on Jefferson Pike by an I-840 interchange. The fast-growing family business that started in 1999 has about 8,500 employees and operates in 22 states, confirmed Jeff Hollingshead, the chief executive officer and son of the founders, Mike and Melissa Hollingshead. An opening ceremony for the Smyrnas Fire Station 4, along Jefferson Pike, was held on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. The mayor also praised the fire station project efforts of former Smyrna Town Manager Brian Hercules, who now works for SRM, to move "heaven and little rock to make this happen." Hercules stood to the back and side of the garage during the ceremony. SRM Chief Marketing Officer Lora Smith told firefighters present for the ceremony that their "bravery and sacrifice is deeply appreciated." SRM growth: Smyrna Ready Mix unveils plan for new headquarters near Interstate 840 Fire Chief: Firefighters 'make a difference' Smyrna Fire Chief William Culbertson has firefighters and first responders walk to the front of the ceremony to be recognized during an opening ceremony at SmyrnaOs Fire Station 4, along Jefferson Pike, on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Reed offered recognition, as well, to Fire Chief Culbertson, who will retire Feb. 1 after a 35-year career that started as Smyrna's first full-time firefighter in 1989. "It's hard to imagine our fire department without him," Reed told the audience. Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed, left and Smyrna Fire Chief William Culbertson react after a ribbon cutting in front of Smyrna Fire Station 4 during an opening ceremony at the station, along Jefferson Pike, on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. When Culbertson took his turn to speak, he asked about two dozen present firefighters to stand in front of the audience that responded by standing to applaud them. Culbertson told the audience that "these firefighters right here" who "make a difference" deserve what he described as "the best" fire station "that's going to last." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roadwork that proceeded Fire Station 4: Smyrna's $61M Jefferson Pike widening project stretches from Nissan Drive to Interstate 840 Reach reporter Scott Broden with news tips or questions by emailing him at sbroden@dnj.com. To support his work with The Daily News Journal, sign up for a digital subscription. New Smyrna Fire Station 4 facts Location: 5650 W. Jefferson Pike near Interstate 840 Cost of project: $10.7 million Federal American Rescue Plan grant funding for project: $7.1 million Smyrna Ready Mix (SRM) donation for project: Land and rock excavation and grading work Square feet for station: over 14,230 Number of single bedrooms for firefighters: 8 Source: Smyrna Town Manager David Santucci This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Smyrna celebrates opening of Fire Station 4 near Interstate 840 A winter storm will develop over the southeastern United States this week and strengthen over the Atlantic on Saturday, although weather models as of Tuesday morning werent in agreement on the chance for snow in Massachusetts. The European model currently shows the storm mostly missing the Bay State well to the south, however, the Global Forecast System (American model) is calling for a noreaster with several inches of snow locally, Boston 25 Meteorologist Shiri Spear said in her latest forecast. The storm system could arrive in New England on Saturday or Saturday night, according to Spear. If the storm holds a track based on European model data, parts of Massachusetts would get a patchy coating of snow, according to Spear. Up to a couple of inches of snow is possible if the GFS model holds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Low pressure develops, it swings in snow. This is just one of many of my tools and it just happens to be the wettest solution. Ive got several other solutions that look mostly like a miss, Spear said. These are trends that well continue to watch. For the latest forecast updates, visit the Boston 25 Weather page. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Forecasters say Southern California this week could see the worst winds since 2011, when a massive storm cut a path of destruction through Pasadena and other parts of the San Gabriel Valley. Offshore winds will be dry, unpredictable and strong possibly up to 100 mph in some parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The worst of the windstorm is expected Tuesday through Wednesday. Here is what happened in 2011, from the pages of The Times. A stunning toll Few residents in the San Gabriel Valley will forget the events of late November and early December 2011, when winds cut off power to 400,000 residents, downed thousands of trees and damaged more than 200 homes and structures. Traffic hit gridlock conditions because so many traffic lights had blacked out. Roof shingles were peeled off and garage doors were knocked askew. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials took the rare step of temporarily closing Griffith Park because of the windstorm, fearing that downed wires might spark fires in piles of dry, shattered tree branches. Read more: Pacific Palisades fire explodes to nearly 3,000 acres as thousands of residents flee, homes are lost Nobody in our department has ever seen such widespread damage. Nobody, Jon Kirk Mukri, general manager of the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, told The Times at the time. An unusual storm The winds were produced by two separate weather systems that channeled cold air from the north into the Los Angeles area. A clockwise high-pressure system was parked over Northern California and the Great Basin as a counterclockwise low-pressure system hovered over Arizona. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like two massive gears spinning in opposite directions, the systems funneled the winds. In some places weve seen gusts over hurricane force, which for the Southwest part of the country is not something that usually happens, Brian Edwards, a meteorologist for AccuWeather.com, told The Times back then. Read more: Every wildfire currently burning in California The aftermath In the end, the storm caused $40 million in damage. Pasadena was hit hardest, with $20 million in damage. Residents expressed displeasure with how long it took local utilities to restore power in some locations. One of the biggest headaches was clearing the many downed trees, a process that took several weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walter Warriner, a Santa Monica arborist, told The Times a lot of trees had had their roots cut for sidewalk and street repairs, eliminating anchors to hold them down during exceedingly strong winds. Theres an urban myth that what you see above ground is mirrored below ground, he said. Nothing could be further from the truth. 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. Tvn Phph Prung Sakdi | EyeEm/Getty Images A plan to locate a solar farm on state-owned land in northern lower Michigan was scuttled before bipartisan criticism of the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by lawmakers. Thats according to RWE Clean Energy, which says it is developing a 200 megawatt solar project in Otsego County, located on more than a thousand acres of privately owned land. The project footprint does not contain any state-owned land, Patricia Kakridas, senior manager for media and public relations for RWE Clean Energy told the Michigan Advance. It is being developed on private property we are leasing from two private landowners. We are not seeking to build our project on public land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort to lease 420 acres of state-managed land west of Gaylord was approved by DNR Director Scott Bowen, who told agency employees that a proposed solar farm would be located near an existing high-voltage power transmission line as well as two planned privately-owned solar panel installations. As the largest landowner in the state, DNR can play a role in providing energy needed by society. DNR lands have been leased for gas, oil and mineral production for decades. Now, solar energy is part of the mix, and we expect some of our state lands can be used for that purpose while recognizing not every acre proposed for development is compatible with solar energy, said Bowen. Rep. Ken Borton | House photo However, the plan drew condemnation from Republican lawmakers, as well as at least two Democrats. State Rep. Ken Borton (R-Gaylord) blasted the decision to utilize state forest land for a solar energy project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mind-numbing decisions like this are absolute proof that the DNR is completely rotten to its core, said Borton. This deforestation will destroy habitats and effectively kill wildlife. Let me make that clear, the DNR is choosing to kill wildlife so they can build solar panels. However, Kakridas indicated the decision not to lease state land was made some time ago. We did not just make that determination. We started working with two private landowners in 2019 and during the development process, we conducted outreach to all landowners adjacent to the project location, including DNR. Ultimately, we decided to move forward with leasing property from the two private landowners for this particular project, she said. In his communication to DNR staff, Bowen indicated that the agency already leases land for many types of industrial development, including gas and oil wells and processing facilities, pipelines and flowlines, mines, sand and gravel pits, asphalt plants, and cell phone towers, and there was a rigorous process in place to determine what parcels were best for solar energy production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To date, DNR has evaluated over 30,000 acres, and most have been found incompatible with solar energy. Any sites selected will be carefully vetted to minimize environmental, cultural and habitat concerns. Some revenue generated from leasing land will be used to buy lands to replace those used for solar. Therefore, there will be no net loss of public access, timber production or wildlife habitat, said Bowen. Joining Borton in condemning the leasing proposal were fellow Republicans state Rep. Mike Hoadley (R-Au Gres) and state Sen. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) but also Democratic state Rep. Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park), who called it incredibly counterproductive towards trying to decrease carbon emissions. Studies have shown that deforestation for solar development often results in a net increase in greenhouse gas emissions, undermining the benefits of renewable energy. This decision also directly contradicts the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which calls to avoid land-use conversion that causes a net increase in GHG emissions and prioritize land uses that reduce GHG emissions. We can fight climate change and protect our forests. Lets demand smarter solutions that align with our climate goals!, McFall stated on Facebook. In a press release on Tuesday, Borton noted that RWE Clean Energy had reversed course and no longer wished to utilize the state-owned property, but also indicated that whether the company proceeded or not, the issue was not considered closed, noting that a bipartisan letter had been sent to Bowen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We demand answers as to where flattening over 400 acres of forest to clear the way for foreign-built solar panels fits within your departments mission. We also demand a thorough report on all DNR involvement with efforts to replace valuable natural resources with unproven green energy technologies, stated the letter, which was signed by 51 Republicans and one Democrat, state Rep. Karen Whitsett (D-Detroit). State Rep. Karen Whitsett (D-Detroit) | Ken Coleman photo Whitsett has made common cause of late with Republicans, assisting efforts at thwarting House Democrats efforts to pass legislation during the lame duck session last month by refusing to attend session, depriving Democrats of a quorum after House Republicans walked out of the chamber in protest of changes made to the states minimum wage that would eliminate a separate tipped wage, an issue that Whitsett also wanted addressed. The curtain is coming down on these terrible ideas and House Republicans arent going to stop digging until we uncover every single place the DNR plans to kill wildlife to further the radical green energy agenda, said Borton. Ive already been made aware of similar projects in Otsego and Roscommon counties. Im sure the buck doesnt stop there. The DNR has lost the public trust and failed at managing conservation efforts; there is no way were going to let them find new ways to screw up energy production, especially at the expense of our natural resources. The Michigan Advance asked Borton whether the examination of the DNRs leasing practices would solely focus on renewable energy production or also examine more traditional sources such as oil and gas, but has yet to receive a response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort to increase renewable energy sources follows Gov. Gretchen Whitmers MI Healthy Climate Plan, which sought to have a 100% clean energy standard by 2040. That goal was signed into law by Whitmer in 2023, one of the signature achievements under Democrats two-year trifecta of majorities in the state House and Senate, as well as control of the executive branch. That came to end following Novembers election, in which Republicans were able to regain control of the state House. DNR-solar-forest-letter-002 SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX BINGHAMTON, NY (WIVT/WBGH) Following Joseph Mihalkos announcement of not seeking another term as Broome County Clerk, a former Binghamton mayor is throwing his hat in the ring to fill the position. Broome County Clerk not pursuing another term Republican Rich David tells News 34 that he will be running for the clerk position. David served two terms as Binghamton Mayor, leaving at the end of 2021 due to term limits. Before that, he served as Deputy Mayor for Rich Bucci and communications director for SUNY Broome, and he first came to this area to work as a TV reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, David ran against and ultimately lost to Lea Webb in the New York 52nd Senate District race. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34. SOCASTEE, S.C. (WBTW) Planned improvements along an increasingly busy section of Socastee Boulevard will be the topic of a drop-in meeting hosted by the South Carolina Department of Transportation. The project between Dick Pond Road and Manor Circle will include high-visibility crosswalks, ADA ramps, leading pedestrian intervals, countdown signal heads, new pavement marks, intersection improvements and pedestrian crossings. There have been multiple crashes in the area in recent years, including one in November that involved a moped and injured one person. Another crash near the area in December 2023 killed Joshua Macnaught, a co-owner of Jakes Dive Bar, who was hit by a car as he was walking across Socastee Boulevard at Brandymill Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The work is expected to begin in the fall of 2026 and take about a year to complete, SCDOT said on its website. The project includes an analysis of crash data, an assessment of field conditions, vehicular turning movement counts, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of all potential countermeasures to ensure the maximum safety benefit is obtained for the amount of funds invested, according to SCDOT. The meeting, which was originally scheduled for last August, will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 23 at Socastee High School. SCDOT officials will be available to answer questions, but there will not be a formal presentation. * * * Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis Bright is the Digital Executive Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. By Joyce Zhou, Minwoo Park and Eduardo Baptista SEOUL (Reuters) -As impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol fights for his political survival, the embattled leader has found an ally among young conservative men. Park Byeong-heon, 25, was a crowd favourite at a pro-Yoon rally on Sunday, cheered on as he gave a 10-minute speech in English aimed at foreign media, decrying attempts by authorities to arrest Yoon over his bid to impose martial law last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is the country that we love. We have to protect it," Park, a university student, told Reuters after giving his speech. "The elderly people (at the rallies) always say to me 'actually, if we die, that's it, it's you young people that are in trouble'. This is in fact what motivated me to participate in more of these rallies these past few days." While the bulk of pro-Yoon protesters appear to be made up of retirees, young conservative men like Park have played a visible role in rallying support for the isolated Yoon. Popular pro-Yoon YouTubers, some of them conservative men in their 30s, have used their online reach to mobilise support and assert unsubstantiated claims that South Korean elections were marred by fraud, echoing one of Yoon's justifications for briefly imposing martial law on Dec. 3. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their activism has been encouraged by Yoon, who told supporters in a letter last Wednesday that he was "watching on YouTube live all the hard work" they were doing. A columnist for the conservative-leaning JoongAng Ilbo newspaper said last month that Yoon's "YouTube addiction" had caused him to fall "into a world of delusion dominated by conspiracy theories". Park does not view it this way. "I watched videos of YouTubers spreading the truth and I actually researched a lot of material. I realised that all the South Korean media were lying, and that made my heart boil with anger," said Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Park pointed to a claim by pro-Yoon YouTuber Kim Sung-won, who has also covered the recent rallies, that much like the 2020 election that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump claimed was fraudulent, South Korea faced the same risk. Many protesters at the rally Park attended were seen holding a banner with the "Stop the Steal" slogan popularised by Trump supporters following his loss to U.S. President Joe Biden. Yoon's supporters have adopted the slogan in the hope that Trump would act or speak in support of his South Korean counterpart soon after his inauguration on Jan. 20. Groups of young men were among a crowd of around 100 supporters that stayed up all night near Yoon's residence on Friday, vowing to block South Korean investigators trying to carry out a warrant to arrest the impeached president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of these men, YouTuber Bae In-kyu, who calls himself an "anti-feminist", a label the president has also embraced, filmed himself being greeted by Yoon Sang-hyeon, a lawmaker from the ruling conservative People Power Party and a vocal opponent of the president's impeachment. One of Bae's videos defending Yoon's decision to impose martial law on the grounds there were legitimate concerns about election fraud has racked over 1 million views. South Korean men in their twenties accounted for 63% of voters that backed Yoon in the 2022 presidential election that he won by just 0.73 percent, compared to 26% of women of the same age. The 2024 U.S. Presidential election also saw a similar rightward shift among young men, with 56% of men aged 18-29 voting for Trump last year, compared with 41% in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Korea's previous centre-left government under then president Moon Jae-in had vowed to tackle gender inequalities in the country of 52 million. South Korea has the worst gender pay gap in the OECD and its women's labour market participation rate is below the OECD average. This effort, however, led to a backlash among South Korean men, as perceptions of reverse discrimination increased, including disgruntlement at the compulsory military service of young men, according to an October 2024 article by Soohyun Christine Lee, a senior lecturer at King's College London. (Reporting by Joyce Zhou, Minwoo Park and Eduardo Baptista in Seoul; Writing by Eduardo Baptista; Editing by Ed Davies and Michael Perry) (KTLA) A 24-year-old man from Los Angeles County was sentenced to a little more than 10 years in federal prison for his role in the armed robbery of a confidential informant and the operation of an unlicensed firearm dealing business, officials announced Monday. In a U.S. Department of Justice news release, prosecutors said Salvador Lopez, a resident of Whittier, helped sell at least 15 illegal firearms, some of which were ghost guns lacking serial numbers, to federal agents and their informants. At one point, the 24-year-old had also agreed to another firearms deal with a confidential federal informant, but instead of following through, he messaged a minor with instructions to rob the informant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The minor and his accomplices not only robbed the informant of $5,000, but they also robbed the informants personal cellphone and vehicle, prosecutors said. Lopez then received a cut of the robberys proceeds. Salvador Lopez, 24, a resident of Whittier. (DOJ) Instagram posts and messages sent by Salvador Lopez to help facilitate illegal firearm sales. (DOJ) Instagram posts and messages sent by Salvador Lopez to help facilitate illegal firearm sales. (DOJ) Instagram posts and messages sent by Salvador Lopez to help facilitate illegal firearm sales. (DOJ) Lopez, as well as the three other defendants in the case Ivan Quintos, 27, of Azusa, and Mark Perez, 23, and Zachary Dry, 24, both residents of Nevada pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges in Oct. 2024. Pregnant Southern California teacher on holiday in Greece falls to her death The foursome used Instagram direct messages and public posts to coordinate and sell more than five dozen guns, including ghost guns and Glock switches, which can enable a semiautomatic handgun to fire fully automatic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The men, none of whom hold federal firearms licenses, sold guns in North Hollywood, Las Vegas and elsewhere, officials added. Quintos faces up to 15 years in federal prison and is scheduled for sentencing in April. Drys sentencing hearing is scheduled for February, while Perez is set for sentencing in March. Lopezs pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and one count of armed robbery of money owned by the United States while using a dangerous weapon. In addition to his 121-month federal prison sentence, he has been ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Selling firearms illegally and putting more untraceable weapons into the community shows a blatant disregard for the law and puts the safety of our citizens at great risk, United States Attorney Martin Estrada said. This defendants lengthy sentence should serve as a warning to others that law enforcement will act decisively to prevent violent gun crime. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BIG FLATS, N.Y. (WETM) Southern Tier community members who want to honor former President Jimmy Carter are invited to join local Habitat for Humanity affiliates at a memorial. Carter, who died at the age of 100 on Dec. 29, dedicated his civilian life to humanitarian work after his presidency and worked with Habitat for Humanity for nearly 40 years. Habitat affiliates from across the country, including the Southern Tier, are celebrating Carters life and the contributions he made to the organization with ceremonies and memorials. Jimmy Carter: Many evolutions for a centenarian citizen of the world Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben County Habitat affiliates will be erecting a memorial in the Arnot Malls Center Court at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8, and a short service will start at 4 p.m. Habitat representatives will raise a wall with a door in it to represent the doors of opportunityCarter helped create for others during his life of service. The community is welcome to join Habitat staff, board members, and homeowners at the ceremony honoring Carter. Members of the public can also pay personal tribute to Carter and send sympathy to his family by signing their names on the wall and door and writing personal messages. The wall and door will be used for a Habitat for Humanity project in the future. People who want to honor Carter and cant make it to Wednesdays ceremony can visit the memorial until Monday, Jan. 13. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kyle Paoletta is a native son of Albuquerque, where he grew up longing for something bigger and better. Space was everywhere, and yet I felt that I was gazing through a gauze of cottonwood seed, he writes in his new book, American Oasis. He decamped for the bustling environs of Boston and New York, where he eventually grew irritated with the East Coasts comprehensive ignorance of the Southwest. More than one person asked him what it was like growing up in Arizona or expressed astonishment that it snows in New Mexico. American Oasis is a response of sorts, a lively, thoughtful tour through the history and culture of Phoenix, El Paso, Las Vegas and other cities of the regions deserts and plains. But its also a guide and a warning. With climate change making more of the country feel like the Southwest, Paoletta wants the reader to understand how the regions people live in unforgivingly arid terrain because even if you dont come to the Southwest, the Southwest will soon be coming to you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The 15 best books of 2024, reissues included The portraits that emerge both enhance and poke holes in the stories the Southwest tells itself tales of can-do individualism, defiance of expectation and rebirth. (Its no accident that Phoenix is called Phoenix.) Native Americans were there first, of course; Mexicans, Spaniards and eventually white Americans waged battles and forged alliances with them and each other. The growth of the white population has been slow, the writer William Smythe noted of New Mexico in 1900, but will increase rapidly with the development of irrigation. To which Paoletta wryly adds: Evidently, land when watered would sprout white people. The racism of many early boosters of the Southwest was scarcely masked; there was a whole lot of saying the quiet parts out loud. In 1920, Phoenixs Chamber of Commerce exalted a modern town of forty thousand people and the best kind of people, too. A very small percentage of Mexicans, negroes or foreigners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Start your 2025 reading list: 10 books we're looking forward to this year Paoletta frames much of the growth of the Arizona city now the fifth-largest in the United States through the lens of the magazine Arizona Highways. With its eye-popping landscape photo spreads, the publication drew the attention of readers far outside the city and state. Self-promotion was woven into the citys fabric from the start, Paoletta writes: For all the astounding things Phoenix has achieved in the 150 years since its founding, the citys culture has remained rooted in an earnest and unwavering belief in its ability to forge a vision of paradise out of whole cloth. Water is a key element in the development of the Southwest as well as the early chapters of American Oasis. Some of the books treatment of dams, rivers, basins and irrigation is a little dry. But the action soon picks up as Paoletta places a series of big characters and personalities within the context of their surroundings. The chapter on Las Vegas is itself a small masterpiece that should be read by anyone seeking to understand a city that seems to defy comprehension. Paoletta covers the early years, marked by shady characters such as the mobster Bugsy Siegel and the If you build it, they will come ethos that defines so much of the Southwest. Then he digs into the citys struggles to desegregate and its hard-won victories for labor rights: Las Vegas has become one of the few cities in America where service work is a sustainable career, one that can provide a home, health insurance, and a comfortable life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And he wanders the city in search of stories, which he renders in exquisite detail. Here he is navigating the sensory overload of downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street Experience: I got moving again once the stench of weed had gotten too overpowering and walked for a minute behind a burly dude in a T-shirt that read Pipefitters Local 57 Boston, MA, a backward Patriots hat on his head. The Dancing DJ flipped the soundtrack to Shakira, and suddenly the canopy was all tropical and coral. Thanks to Paolettas gimlet eye, what happens in Vegas doesnt stay in Vegas. American Oasis is the work of an insider who became an outsider and gradually found his way back in. These combined perspectives give Paoletta a sort of passionate objectivity; we feel him reconsidering his subject as we turn the pages. There is no high culture or low culture in the Southwest just culture, he writes. Those who ignore the region or refuse to acknowledge its status as quintessentially American do so out of a misplaced belief that social position or intellect can somehow elevate you above the rude reality of capitalism. In this sense, the Southwest just might be the epitome of American democracy, a place where the country looks to reestablish ideals that are in increasing jeopardy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Vognar is a freelance culture writer. 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. SCOTT COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) A Southwest Virginia man was arrested after a joint operation in Scott County on Friday. According to a news release from the Scott County Sheriffs Office (SCSO), deputies worked alongside deputies with the Russell County Sheriffs Office (RCSO) to apprehend Shannon Eugene Hall, 40, of Dante. HCSO: Suspect shot man in hip in Hawkins County The SCSO reports Hall had been living in the Fort Blackmore area of Scott County. Investigators conducted surveillance on a home near Fort Blackmore and later conducted a traffic stop on people who lived there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That traffic stop reportedly led investigators to Hall, who was arrested without incident at the Fort Blackmore home. Hall had been wanted out of Russell County on a Failure to Appear Capias and probation violations stemming from a 2006 shooting incident in Russell County, the release states. Hall had failed to appear in court on October 11, 2022 and a Capias had then been issued for 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. SUFFOLK COUNTY (PIX11) The remains of a severely emaciated puppy were found in a backpack, and now the Suffolk County SPCA is offering a $3,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest. Back in November 2024, a backpack containing the corpse of a severely emaciated English or French bulldog was discovered on Miller Place on Yaphank Road, north of Whiskey Road in Miller Place, according to officials. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities say the puppy is believed to have been six months to one year old. If you witness any act of animal cruelty or neglect, please report it immediately to the Suffolk County SPCA. Together, we can ensure justice for these innocent animals. Aggravated cruelty to animals involves intentionally killing or causing serious injury to a companion animal with the intent to inflict extreme pain. This is a felony under New York State law. If you have any information, please contact the Suffolk County SPCA at 631-382-7722. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Special Boat Service (SBS) soldiers could face murder charges over the death of a suspected terrorist in Libya, it has been claimed. The incident, which occurred as part of secret UK special forces operations in the war-torn North African state, is being investigated by the military police. An SBS source told the Daily Mail that the soldiers were deployed to Libya two years ago when up to five elite troops were involved in a car chase that ended with the vehicles they were driving circling the suspects car. It has been alleged that shots were then fired at the vehicle, which killed the driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mail reported that a criminal investigation by the Defence Serious Crimes Unit was launched over claims the suspect could have been arrested instead. While it has not been decided which charges the soldiers face, it has been reported that murder charges have not been ruled out. Operations carried out by the SBS are highly classified - Crown The disclosure comes as an independent inquiry relating to SAS troops in Afghanistan remains ongoing. It is investigating claims that up to 80 civilians were killed in suspicious circumstances by members of the special forces on night raids between 2010 and 2013. Last year, a hearing was told that Sir Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, knew that allegations about the killings of Afghan civilians by SAS forces were broadly accurate four years before ordering a public inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inquiry is also exploring whether a special forces unit, known to the probe as UKSF1, had a policy of executing men of fighting age who posed no threat in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. Hearing was told Sir Ben Wallace knew about alleged SAS killings of Afghan civilians four years before ordering public inquiry - Heathcliff O'Malley Afghan families have accused the SAS of conducting a campaign of murder against civilians, while senior officers and personnel at the Ministry of Defence (MoD) sought to prevent adequate investigation. A MoD spokesman said: Our UK personnel are respected worldwide for the highest standards and action will be taken against anyone that fails to meet these standards, including dismissal from service, where appropriate. 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. (WHTM) - Lancaster County residents in Pennsylvanias 36th State Senate District will head to the polls for a special election on Tuesday, March 25. The special election set by Lt. Governor Austin Davis is to replace Ryan Aument, who resigned to take a job in Senator Dave McCormicks office. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Local Business Beat State Representative Brett Miller and Lancaster County Commissioner Josh Parsons have announced their bids for Auments seat. Aument has said he will not endorse a candidate in the race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 36th Senate District includes Akron Borough, Columbia Borough, Conoy Township, Earl Township, East Donegal Township, East Hempfield Township, East Petersburg Borough, Elizabeth Township, Elizabethtown Borough, Ephrata Borough, Ephrata Township, Lititz Borough, Manheim Borough, Manheim Township, Marietta Borough, Mount Joy Borough, Mount Joy Township, Mountville Borough, New Holland Borough, Penn Township, Rapho Township, Warwick Township, West Donegal Township, West Earl Township and West Hempfield Township. The people of Pennsylvanias 36th Senate District deserve to have representation as lawmakers are considering the state budget and the many important issues facing our Commonwealth, said Davis. After consulting with Senate Republican and Democratic leaders, Ive decided to schedule the special election for this seat on Tuesday, March 25. I encourage all eligible voters in the district to make their voices heard at the ballot box on or before that date. Finally, I wish Senator Aument all the best in his new role serving the people of Pennsylvania as Senator McCormicks state director. Its been great working with him in the Senate, and I hope we can continue to collaborate on state and federal issues. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Video in player reflects ROC Brewings closure in 2023 ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A new brewery is looking to open in Rochesters Neighborhood of Play. Spotted Octopus Brewing Company, based in Buffalo, teased in a Dec. 13 post on Facebook that its making moves to Rochester. On Tuesday, Rochester Downtown Development Corporation posted a similar image on Instagram, indicating Spotted Octopus would be opening doors to a new location in the Neighborhood of Play. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with Spotted Octopus said theyll be taking over the former Roc Brewing Co. space on S. Union. and are looking to open by the spring. News 8 also reached out to RDDC and hasnt heard back yet. Something special: Roc Brewing Co. co-owner on hard decision to close Roc Brewing Co. closed in the fall of 2023. They first opened in 2011. In 2011, coming out of college, a friend and I, saw a really emerging market and industry, and we wanted to create something special and a special place for downtown for everyone, said Chris Spinelli, co-owner of Roc Brewing. Roc Brewing was one of the first second wave of craft breweries to come to Rochester, Spinelli says, and they won awards and hearts along the way: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Likely hundreds of thousands have enjoyed their beers through distribution, and the South Union location as the co-owners wanted became a go-to community place. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SPRINGDALE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) On Jan. 7, South Springdale saw a small snowstorm while the rest of the area stayed dry but whats behind this phenomenon? What is lake effect snow? Lake effect snow occurs when cold air moves over warmer water, picks up moisture, and forms snow. As cold, dry air passes over the warmer lake, it rises, cools and forms clouds that drop snow, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Watch an explanation from the Your Weather Authority team below. Wind direction and the landscape can influence how much snow falls and where. In this case, Beaver Lakes warmer waters likely contributed to the snowstorm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although more common near large bodies of water like the Great Lakes, lake effect snow can also occur over smaller lakes, such as Beaver Lake. Lake effect snow typically forms in narrow bands, leading to intense snowfall and poor visibility. Conditions can change rapidly, with sunny skies turning to heavy snow within minutes, creating hazardous driving conditions. Wind analysis around Beaver Lake Photos from Springdales Jan. 7 lake effect snow View of 71B. (COURTESY: Irvin Camacho) COURTESY: Springdale Fire Department COURTESY: Springdale Fire Department Small snowstorm impacts road conditions in south Springdale More winter weather is expected in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley. To make sure you are staying up-to-date with the forecast, download the Your Weather Authority app to get updates anywhere at any time. Follow YOUR Weather Authority Team: On Twitter On Facebook STAY INFORMED Click Here to Download our Weather Authority 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 KNWA FOX24. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The Springfield City Council welcomed the new year on Monday with its Organizational Meeting at City Hall. Springfield City Councilors gathered to discuss some rules and plans for the upcoming legislative year. 22News got a chance to see what city councilors are working towards for 2025. Audit law officially in effect The meeting focused on electing leadership for the council and adopting new rules for the upcoming legislative year. Tracye Whitfield, Vice President of the City Council, explained what this means to her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moving forward, I am just going to continue to do what I have been doing working in the community with the community, listening, watching the council president, sitting with him more learning about the rules, Whitfield said. Everything is a learning opportunity for me so I can share it with the community. Mike Fenton is going into his fifth year as president of the Springfield City Council. He told 22News that the council has a lot in store for 2025. Our city not unlike other places around the country is struggling to find appropriate units for affordable housing, Fenton said. We are always on the battle for public safety and economic development, but we feel really good about the progress we made here in Springfield throughout the last few years and want to continue on that momentum. Fenton also said he is honored to have the support of his colleagues and he will continue to serve the Springfield community. 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. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) The City of Springfield is recruiting the next generation of law enforcement. Are you interested in a career in law enforcement? Then the Springfield Police Department wants to meet you. The department is opening its doors to give potential recruits an idea of what it takes to serve and protect the city alongside the nearly 500 officers that make up the Springfield PD. We want people who have sound judgment skills and are able to make good decisionssound decisions that will benefit the public and Springfield Police Department, says SPD Instructor and Officer Robert Carter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials hosted the first of two open house sessions at the Springfield Police Training Facilitywhere community members met officers and learned about the application process to take the police officer exam. Its important for people to build that connection with officers. If you can build that connection you are more likely to go through the process, says Caitlyn Julius with the Human Resources Dept. for the City of Springfield. It can be a confusing process and a lot of people dont understand civil service or how to become a police officer. So this encourages them to take that step. People have until January 28th to apply for the civil service exam. The examination fee is $75 but that fee can be waived for eligible individuals. You must be 19 or older to take the exam, however, you cannot be appointed as an officer until you are 21 years old. You must also have a high school diploma or GED and the next open house will be held on January 27th. 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. A St. Cloud woman has been sentenced to over 26 years in federal prison for her role in leading a drug trafficking ring from Mexico. Macalla Lee Knott, 32, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Fargo last week. She pleaded guilty nearly two years ago to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, money laundering conspiracy and continuing criminal enterprise. Knott previously admitted that while living in Mexico since March 2020, she supervised and managed a team of people in directing shipments of $10 million worth of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl to various distributors across the Upper Midwest, and arranged payments to sources of supply in Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over 100 pounds of meth, nine pounds of fentanyl powder and 120,000 fentanyl pills were confiscated as part of the operation. The drugs came from the Sinaloa cartel formerly run by the notorious drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman. Becker County Jail Forum News reports that a large number of Knott's family and friends gave representations on her behalf as they pleaded for a lighter sentence, but prosecutors had argued her charismatic personality had enabled her to direct the sophisticated drug operation from Mexico. The investigation led to 18 people from Minnesota being charged in North Dakota. Of those charged, 13 have been sentenced as of Tuesday. Three are awaiting sentencing while two others had charges dropped against them, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Among those sentenced was Knott's 53-year-old father Jeffrey Knott, of St. Cloud, whom the Star Tribune reports was sentenced to 7-and-a-half-years in prison last year. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A St. Helens High School teacher is back behind bars on 11 new sex abuse charges, according to local authorities. Police told KOIN 6 News Eric Stearns, 46, was arrested again Saturday two months after he posted bail following initial allegations that he had sexually abused a student. Man accused of kidnapping, sexually assaulting woman after helping her carry groceries home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. Helens police said the number of his alleged victims has since grown to 12 with 18 total charges. Stearns pleaded not guilty to the new charges in court on Monday. Investigators now accuse the choir teacher of inappropriately touching six more people, including four students, over the course of several years Im kind of grieving over it, because we trusted him, said Dakotah, a St. Helens sophomore. Its very embarrassing for our school, because what he did was not right and he should stay away from children. Stearns was previously arrested on sex abuse charges along with retired teacher Mark Collins in mid-November shortly before Principal Kathryn Wagner faced a judge based on accusation that she had failed to report abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stearns attorney Jennifer L. Myrick said the teacher did not have direct sexual intent by touching the lymph nodes in the neck of students who reported that their throats were sore. Roommate to stand trial for 1999 Hillsboro murder However, police say they believe there could be more victims. Although theyre new, theyve taken some time to get this information. And you know, the information really didnt stop coming in, acting Chief Joseph Hogue said. Our detectives all along have been suspicious that there was going to be additional victims, and that just started to add up really quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Stearns arrest Saturday, the St. Helens School District shared the following statement with KOIN 6 News: We are deeply saddened by the pain and trauma that these events have caused. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those impacted by this deeply troubling situation. We want to assure our community that if any employee under investigation is found guilty, they will be held fully accountable in accordance with due process as outlined in employment contracts, collective bargaining agreements, and the law. At the same time, we must allow the investigation to proceed without interference, ensuring fairness and respect for all involved. The St. Helens School District remains fully cooperative with law enforcement as this investigation unfolds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support as we navigate these challenging times together. Our commitment to student safety and the trust of our community remains unwavering. Stearns will be held on no bail until his release hearing Friday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A St. Paul man was given a 20-year prison term Monday for stabbing to death a man who was released from prison earlier in the day. Dwight David Ford, 49, pleaded guilty in Ramsey County District Court to second-degree unintentional murder while committing a felony for killing 41-year-old Christopher Shawndale Pryor at an apartment building in the citys North End on June 13, 2022. Prosecutors sought a 24-year prison sentence for Ford, who will receive credit for 934 days already served in custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with investigators, Ford said he and his girlfriend, who worked as a prostitute, were smoking crack at the apartment in the 100 block of Winnipeg Avenue throughout the day. He said they set up a trick with Pryor, where the woman agreed to perform sexual acts for money and crack, the criminal complaint says. After the trick, according to Ford, Pryor told them he was missing $120 and he accused the woman of stealing the money. Ford said an argument broke out and his girlfriend started to look scared, the complaint states. Ford said he grabbed a knife from the kitchen and he and Pryor fought in the bathroom. He said he stabbed Pryor two to three times. Victims sister heard argument Pryors sister, Antoinette Townsend, told the court Monday that she saw her brother the day he was killed. Court records show Pryor was released from prison that day and placed in supervised probation as part of a 29-month sentence for burglary out of Dakota County in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Townsend said she told her brother that everything has changed since he went into prison, that people will do anything for money so you have be strong. She said she gave Pryor a cellphone to use. Later that day, Townsend returned a call he had made asking her to pick him up at the apartment. When he answered the phone, she heard him arguing with a man over money and a woman screaming in the background. It was like I was a fly on the wall, Townsend said. I was on the phone the whole time with him when everything was happening. When Townsend arrived at the apartment building, a woman who was leaving told her that two men had been fighting and one was stabbed, according to the complaint. Townsend found her brother with stab wounds to his abdomen, and medics pronounced him dead at the scene. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its very sad, Townsend said. And I dont want to wish this on anybody to go through or witness, because I feel like a lot of people dont deserve what happens to them. Its about the choices you make and the decisions you make. As part of a plea agreement that Ford reached with Ramsey County prosecutors, three other felony charges in the case were dismissed at sentencing: second-degree intentional murder, soliciting or inducing an individual to practice prostitution and sex-trafficking of an individual. Fords prior criminal history includes convictions for kidnapping, terroristic threats, first-degree criminal sexual conduct with injury/force, third-degree criminal sexual conduct, second-degree aggravated robbery and escape from custody. At the time of the killing, he was considered a non-compliant predatory offender with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (BLOOM) Robocalls are more than just a nuisance; theyre an epidemic costing Americans billions each year. Florida finds itself at the forefront of this battle, with St. Petersburg ranking as one of the hardest-hit cities in the nation, according to a 2024 study by NumberBarn, a phone number management company. Hello Kitty Cafe truck rolls into Brandon and Tampa this January Floridas Robocall Reality In 2024, St. Petersburg reported 6,708 robocall complaints, equating to 700 complaints per 100,000 residentssecond only to Tucson, Arizona, in the nation. Jacksonville also landed on the list with 641 complaints per 100,000 residents, highlighting how deeply Floridians are affected by this growing issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Statewide, Florida continues to grapple with this problem. Robocalls cost U.S. residents nearly $700 million in 2024, and these figures dont include text-based scams, which are also on the rise. The Impact on St. Petersburg Residents For St. Petersburg residents, these calls represent more than just an annoyance. With a median loss of $1,500 per victim, robocall scams pose a significant financial threat. Older adults are particularly vulnerable, with those over 60 facing median losses of $2,000 per incident. The holiday season exacerbates the problem, with scammers capitalizing on increased spending and charitable donations. Florida remains a top target during this time, as consumer behavior creates more opportunities for fraudsters. Valentines Day date ideas in Tampa and St. Petersburg Why Florida? Several factors make Florida a hotspot for robocalls: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High senior population : Scammers often target older adults, who are more likely to fall victim to fraudulent schemes. Booming metropolitan areas : Cities like St. Petersburg and Jacksonville, with their dense populations, provide fertile ground for scammers. Tourism-driven economy: Floridas transient population and reliance on mobile communication make it a prime target for phone-based scams. How to Protect Yourself The rise in robocalls has led to the development of tools and techniques to protect consumers: Use call-blocking technology: Most carriers and apps now offer features to filter out unwanted calls. Register on the National Do Not Call Registry: While not foolproof, this reduces the likelihood of legal telemarketing calls. Avoid answering unknown numbers: Let calls from unfamiliar numbers go to voicemail. Beware of urgency: Scammers often use pressure tactics to rush decisions. Take your time to verify claims. Report scams: Complaints can be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or Federal Communications Commission (FCC). St. Petersburgs ranking highlights how deeply robocalls have infiltrated Floridians lives. But the problem extends far beyond the Sunshine State, with cities like Tucson, Fort Worth, and Las Vegas also making the list. Nationwide, the FTC reported nearly $851 million in losses from phone fraud in 2023, almost double the $423 million recorded in 2020. These figures underscore the importance of vigilance and consumer education to combat this evolving threat. As scammers adapt, so must the solutions. With advancements in call-blocking technology and heightened awareness, residents in St. Petersburg and beyond can take proactive steps to safeguard themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Floridas cities may be among the most affected, but with the right tools and practices, the fight against robocalls is far from lost. Stay vigilant, report suspicious activity, and dont let robocalls turn into a costly mistake. Sources: Federal Trade Commission, NumberBarn, U.S. Census Bureau Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chair Janet Alkire delivers the Tribal-State Relationship address during a joint session of the Legislature on Jan. 7, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor) Tribes, the state and federal government must continue to work together for the benefit of their people, Janet Alkire, chair of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, said in a Tuesday address to state lawmakers. Our common citizens are our bridge, and without the valuable support they need, that infrastructure will collapse, Alkire said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her speech, Alkire provided the Legislature with updates on the five Native nations that share geography with North Dakota: Standing Rock, the Spirit Lake Nation, the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate. More 2025 legislative session coverage The need for more infrastructure on reservations was a common refrain in Alkires speech. In recent years, North Dakota tribes have benefited from federal legislation like the American Rescue Plan Act and other funding to support developments as wide ranging as new housing, medical facilities and energy projects, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For instance, the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $14.5 million planning grant for a proposed bridge over the Missouri River connecting the reservation to Emmons County. But its not enough, Alkire said. She called on lawmakers, tribal chairs and federal leaders to continue investing in infrastructure in the interest of future generations. A bridge to the future needs infrastructure, she said. Alkire also highlighted health care, education and economic development as key priorities for the tribes. She urged the Legislature to pass a bill this session to fund research into how much the tribes contribute to North Dakotas gross domestic product. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Fox, chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, said he brought that proposal to Alkire. He said the state had previously commissioned a similar study in the early 2000s. Fox added that the state and tribes shouldnt see each other as economic competitors, but as collaborators. We need to be partnering in all the things that we do, he said in an interview after the address. Rep. Lisa Finley-DeVille, D-Mandaree, and Rep. Collette Brown, D-Warwick, agreed that improving the working relationship betweens the state and tribes should be a priority for the upcoming biennium. Keeping an open line of communication is an important part of that, Brown said. She said she plans to introduce a bill that would require the state to notify tribal chairs about any proposed legislation that would affect their communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also Tuesday, Gov. Kelly Armstrong called for collaboration with tribal partners during his State of the State address. Their challenges are our challenges, Armstrong said. Their successes are our successes. Alkire in her speech also voiced support for a measure to create an alert system for missing and murdered indigenous people in North Dakota. She said the bill would be brought this session by Rep. Jayme Davis, D-Rolette. Brown said she has also pushed for an alert for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. Expanding funding and staffing for Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement is also key to addressing crime on reservations, Alkire siad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal government has been woefully underfunding our law enforcement budgets, she said. President-elect Donald Trump has named former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum as his pick for secretary of the Interior. Alkire said while shes unsure how Trumps administration will impact tribes overall, shes hopeful a more conservative administration could result in greater sovereignty for Native nations. Alkire said if Burgum is confirmed as secretary of the Interior, he would be an asset to tribes. She said the former governor has stayed in touch with tribal chairs since leaving office. The tribes agree that a reduction in bureaucratic overhead could be extremely beneficial, Alkire said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She expressed frustration over needing to get federal approval for many uses of their own land. Historically, Sioux territory stretched from present-day Minnesota to Montana, up through part of Canada and down to Kansas and Nebraska, she said. Under an 1851 treaty with the federal government, that was reduced to part of modern-day North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Nebraska and Wyoming. The federal government subsequently violated that agreement and annexed additional parts of the Sioux Nation, further reducing Native territory. Today, the Standing Rock Reservation encompasses about 2.3 million acres. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Star on the Mountain will shine blue on Monday, Jan. 6, in honor of the new El Paso mayor, Renard Johnson. The El Paso Chamber said this special lighting, which is sponsored by Johnsons family, celebrates this achievement and serves as a tribute to his leadership and dedication to the community. Johnson, El Pasos first Black mayor, is scheduled to be sworn in at 6 p.m. Monday at the Plaza Theatre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information about the Star on the Mountain, contact the Chamber at (915) 534-0500 or visit www.elpaso.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 KTSM 9 News. Jan. 6The Alaska Department of Health has agreed to give monthly updates on whether it is providing timely cash assistance to low-income elderly and disabled Alaskans, according to a settlement agreement certified by an Anchorage judge Monday. The agreement came in a class-action lawsuit against the state, after Anchorage Superior Court Judge Adolf Zeman ruled in December that the state for months had failed to abide by its own requirement to process applications for adult public assistance within 30 days. On average, 13,817 indigent Alaskans rely on payments of around $300 per month to help cover the cost of basic necessities like housing. Under strict income and asset regulations, recipients of adult public assistance are often using the cash payments to supplement other public benefits, like Social Security income. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just over 40% of applications for assistance were processed within the 30-day timeframe in the 2024 fiscal year, according to data provided by the plaintiffs from the state. Nearly 370 Alaskans' applications had not been processed within 30 days as of December, due to the agency backlog. A trial in the case was supposed to begin Monday, in which the plaintiffs represented by Alaska civil rights firm Northern Justice Project were expected to ask Zeman to appoint an outside expert to oversee the department's management of the program. Instead, the state agreed to file monthly reports on the timeliness of application processing. The reports would mirror those ordered by a federal judge in a separate case related to the state's failure to comply with application processing laws for food assistance, known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Both programs are handled by the Alaska Division of Public Assistance, which says it has been affected by high worker turnover, staffing shortages, an outdated computer system and COVID-19-era regulation changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a case also filed by the Northern Justice Project, U.S. District Court Judge Sharon Gleason last week ordered the Department of Health to report monthly to her about processing time for SNAP benefits. James Davis, an attorney for the plaintiffs in both cases, said Gleason's order helped create a roadmap for improving the adult public assistance program. The agreement will require the Department of Health to work toward processing all applications within 30 days. Attorneys for both the state and the plaintiffs said in a brief court hearing on Monday that they hoped the state could achieve compliance with the law within six months. The agreement requires the Department of Health to provide monthly reports on the application processing timeline, staffing at the Department of Health, and implementation of a new information technology system. The agreement allows the department to file joint reports to both the state court and to Gleason in the federal case regarding SNAP benefits. The first report is due Feb. 1. Jan. 6The Office of the Maine Attorney General has filed a motion requesting that a federal judge deny a gun rights advocacy group's attempt to block the state's implementation of a 72-hour waiting period on gun sales. A group of firearms advocates filed a lawsuit challenging the three-day waiting period in November, arguing that the new law violates the U.S. Constitution. The suit has been backed by firearms groups Gun Owners of Maine and the Sportsman's Alliance of Maine. As part of their lawsuit, the group motioned to have the law's implementation put on pause until the suit is settled. But in a filing on Friday, the state argues that the lawsuit is unlikely to win on its merits, and the injunction should be denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state argued in its motion that the Second Amendment protects the right to keep arms but "does not apply to a law regulating the acquisition of arms unless the law is so burdensome that it effectively prohibits keeping and bearing arms." The plaintiffs are Republican Rep. James White and his business, J. White Gunsmithing; as well as Andrea Beckworth, East Coast School of Safety; Adam Hendsbee, A&G Shooting; and Thomas Cole and his business, TLC Gunsmithing and Armory. They are represented locally by attorney Josh Tardy, of Bangor, with help from Clement & Murphy, a national firm that has experience arguing cases in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, including the New York Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen case, which has made it more difficult to enact gun safety legislation. Lawyers for the firearms advocates have until Jan. 17 to file their response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Until that time we have been advised to not comment publicly as the legal challenge is ongoing," the group's board of directors wrote in a statement on its website. "While we have no comment on the proceedings, we did want to make the filings available as it is a matter of public record." The law was one of several passed to strengthen gun control measures statewide following the October 2023 mass shooting in Lewiston in which 18 people were killed and 13 more shot and injured. The constitutionality of the law has been debated since the bill first arose. It passed the state House of Representatives with a three-vote margin and the Senate by just one vote. Gov. Janet Mills allowed the bill to take effect without her signature, saying she was "deeply conflicted" about the rule. Copy the Story Link LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Over the years, the Clark County School District has been dealing with a high number of teacher openings in some of its inner-city schools. In a report, the district submitted to the Nevada Board of Education, CCSD pointed the finger at a 2017 state law for being a significant barrier in addressing those vacancies. CCSD data 8 News Now previously obtained showed that suburban outer-ring schools have lower teacher vacancies than schools labeled as the urban core. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The disparity led the Clark County Education Association to successfully negotiate in its recent collective bargaining agreement with CCSD, a $5,000 bonus for teachers who work at the higher vacancy schools. You got to acknowledge, you got to pay educators the appropriate pay to be in these schools. Theyre more challenging, John Vellardita, CCEAs executive director said. However, Vellardita said pay is only part of a four-point approach to recruit and hire teachers at some of the schools in need. They also need to have a strong principal, be safe, and offer student services. We need more wraparound services. More ancillary programs for these students who have challenges that you dont see in say, in the suburban schools, Vellardita said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The districts report is called The Organization of the Clark County School District under NRS 388G.500 to 388G.810. It will be discussed at Wednesdays Nevada Board of Education meeting. According to the district, vacancies have widened the gap in instructional quality and exacerbated inequalities in access to qualified educators. Nevada lawmakers in 2017 passed the reorganization law, which empowered local school precincts. CCSD said the inability of the district to assign staff to areas of greater need under NRS 388g remains a significant barrier. [CCSD is] just saying, give us the authority to put somebody there. Thats not a formula for success, thats a formula for failure, Vellardita said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Data 8 News Now obtained last year showed the following CCSD schools began the 2024-2025 academic year in August with the highest vacancies: Cheyenne High School 20 Swainston Middle School 16 Tartan Elementary School 15 Harney Middle School 14. Sedway Middle School 13 Watson Elementary School 13 Besides Harney Middle School, the schools in need of teachers were all in North Las Vegas. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOWN OF FOWLER, N.Y. (WWTI) The New York State Police are investigating a Friday afternoon fire that claimed the life of one person. Around 1 p.m. January 3, State Police members responded to 81 Little York Road in the town of Fowler for a report of a structure fire. NYSP investigating two suspicious deaths in Carthage An investigation determined that 53-year-old Eric Wood, the homes owner, was inside of the residence when the blaze started. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Area fire departments put the fire out and were later able to gain access into the residence. An individual was found deceased inside the residence. State Police members responded to the scene and spoke with the New York State Fire Investigator regarding the incident. The St. Lawrence County Coroner responded to the scene and removed the deceased person. An autopsy was performed Monday at Glens Falls Hospital and the deceased individual was identified as Wood. The cause and manner of death are pending investigation. The investigation is ongoing at this time. State troopers were assisted on the scene by New York State Fire, Gouverneur Fire, Edwards Fire, Harrisville Fire, and Richville Fire. 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. Gabrielle LeDoux confers with defense attorney Kevin Fitzgerald, who is seated, during her trial on Nov. 27, 2024, in the Nesbett Courthouse in Anchorage. (Photo by Andrew Kitchenman/Alaska Beacon) Alaska prosecutors will again attempt to convict a former state legislator on election-tampering charges after their first attempt ended with a hung jury late last year. In a Monday court hearing, Alaska Chief Assistant Attorney General Jenna Gruenstein confirmed that the Alaska Department of Law is continuing its case against Gabrielle LeDoux, a Republican who represented Kodiak in the Alaska House from 2005 to 2009 and an Anchorage district from 2013 to 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In spring 2020, state prosecutors accused LeDoux of illegally encouraging people who lived outside her district to cast votes within the district. Some charges were dismissed, but LeDoux faced five felony charges and seven misdemeanor charges this year. Her case was repeatedly postponed and reached trial in November, more than four years after initial charges were filed. Two other people, including a former LeDoux aide, also faced state charges but accepted plea deals in exchange for testifying against LeDoux. After a week of court arguments, jurors split for and against LeDouxs guilt, and Judge Kevin Saxby declared a mistrial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, an attorney representing LeDoux said he is asking an additional expert to testify at the next trial. The state has filed a motion to preclude that testimony. Both sides are expected to trade another round of written briefings on the disagreement, with the issue to be decided before a second trial. On Monday, Saxby set Feb. 3 as the date of the next hearing between the two sides. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX 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) This story originally appeared on Stateline. 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. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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 women's issue or even a family issue, it's 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 than 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. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images A statewide grand jury didnt find evidence that COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers broke federal or state laws when making and distributing the shots, according to a report published Tuesday. The publication of the grand jurys final report comes more than two years after Gov. Ron DeSantis asked the Supreme Court to assemble it to investigate wrongdoing related to the COVID-19 vaccines. At the time, DeSantis eyed his unsuccessful bid for the presidency and explained his petition by saying that misrepresenting the efficacy of a drug was against Florida law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No criminal indictments However, the grand jury refused to bring any criminal indictments, finishing its 144-page final report on Nov. 22. Christopher Sabella, the chief judge of Floridas Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, ordered the unsealing of the report on Tuesday. We did not find any statute that we believed would be an appropriate vehicle for a criminal indictment based on the facts we have laid out in this Final Report, the jurors wrote. Instead, the report criticizes the relationship between regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration and Pfizer and Moderna. Records and testimony we collected in our tenure showed that time and again, sponsors operated hand-in-glove with regulators to promote their products in the marketplace, the report states. Often, the claims of sponsors and federal regulators alike were based on less-than-ideal supporting evidence, but we must presume from their conduct that these regulators understood the quality of this supporting evidence and they were satisfied with it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis didnt acknowledge the lack of evidence of criminal activity in his X post about the report, adding that the recommendations the grand jury made should be implemented. While we are still reading through the report and its recommendations, it details that, through deception and taking advantage of scientific journal infrastructure to hide adverse events from the public, Big Pharma engaged in a pattern of deceptive and obfuscatory behavior,' DeSantis wrote. This morning, the Twenty-Second Statewide Grand Jury released its final report. This Grand Jury was tasked with investigating vaccine manufacturers and their production process for vaccines following the COVID-19 pandemic. While we are still reading through the report and its Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) January 7, 2025 SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Grand Jury recommends changes to FDA, Florida Legislature The report includes recommendations for both the federal government and the Florida Legislature. For example, the grand jury wants the FDA to reinstate a ban on direct-to-consumer advertising of therapeutics and to prevent people from going back and forth between working for regulatory agencies and the private sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This Grand Jury finds itself in the awkward position of advocating for a series of changes to a group of private and public entities who did not ask for them and are unlikely to be particularly interested in adopting them, the report states. The FDA declined to comment. The grand jury also accused Pfizer, Moderna, and other corporations of running out the clock when it came to providing evidence and testimony. The COVID-19 grand jury sat for 18 months after receiving a six-month extension. Pfizer defended its COVID-19 vaccine in a statement to Florida Phoenix. Pfizer stands by the strength of the science behind its mRNA vaccines and the transparency with which we conducted our COVID-19 clinical trials and communicated their results, a media relations representative wrote to the Phoenix. Regulatory agencies across the world have authorized or approved the use of our COVID-19 vaccines. Those authorizations or approvals are based on robust and independent evaluation of the scientific data on quality, safety and efficacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The members of the grand jury recommended changes to Florida law to allow a discovery period before members of future grand juries are sworn in. They also want the state to criminalize noncompliance with grand jury subpoenas. Approximately 16.1% of Florida adults have gotten the latest COVID-19 vaccine, according to CDC data from Dec. 23. Seven days into the new year, the Florida Department of Health has reported 2,823 COVID-19 cases and two deaths. Moderna and the governors office didnt immediately respond to the Phoenixs requests for comment. This story has been updated to include an X post from DeSantis. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX PBBMs economic astuteness drives growth in Cavite Ecozones To spread wealth and have economic opportunity drive its ripple down effect to the less privileged and the grassroots Filipino. These are the main reasons why the government puts up economic zones in key parts of the archipelago. - Advertisement - But other than spurring growth and development in other areas aside from Metro Manila or Metro Cebu, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., true to his form of being one of the most economically astute presidents the country, tasked the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to ensure a system of efficiency and sound fiscal programs among the economic zones. The economic zones are among the most transformative economic drivers in the country, catalyzing industrial progress and positioning the Philippines at the forefront of Southeast Asias economic landscape. With an environment ripe for business development and global integration, these ecozones have become magnets for investment, where skilled labor and state-of-the-art infrastructure converge to create opportunities redefining the nations economic trajectory. At the heart of this growth is the economic astuteness of President Marcos administration which has been instrumental in supporting the expansion of these ecozones. President Marcos said the CAVITEX-CALAX Link, originating from Kawit, is a 1.2-kilometer connection whose length may be short, but its impact will be substantial and will bring a significant improvement in road network connectivity from Kawit to CALABARZON. (Photo: PCO) His vision of institutionalizing a competitive, globally connected economy is driving the country toward a future where innovation, investment, and job creation will eventually elevate the Philippines into a major export player in the global marketplace. Among the leading ecozones that contribute immensely to the countrys economic development are the ones in the province of Cavite. These zones, including the prominent Cavite Economic Zone (CEZ), Gateway Business Park, and the newly expanded National Development Company (NDC) Industrial Estate, have transformed the local landscape into a bustling hub for manufacturing, high-tech industries, and exports. Cavite now serves as a prime location for businesses looking for skilled labor force, modern infrastructure, and seamless integration into global supply chains. It also plays a key role in the countrys goal to become one of the most competitive economies in Southeast Asia. President Marcos has underscored the importance of these ecozones in advancing industrial growth and creating opportunities for Filipinos. This will also help make the Philippines a top investment destination for foreign and local firms. The expansion of these ecozones not only boosts economic activity but also provides opportunities for Filipinos to participate in the global value chain, he said. Pinoy Wunderkind: A PEZA Success Story The continued growth in the ecozone is suitable for the economy and has also helped Filipino employees working in companies in PEZA-administered zones. One of them is Bob Bismonte, a mechanical engineer and Design Director at Global 3D Systems (G3D). After working abroad for six years in Germany, Bob returned to the Philippines, believing that with the right qualifications and dedication, the country can offer professional and personal growth opportunities. At PEZAs Cavite Ecozone, he found a platform to innovate and thrive. Bob is recognized internationally for his engineering skills, particularly for developing the T2000 printer, which uses liquid resin for 3D printing applications in the medical, dental, and automotive industries. This innovation, patented in the USA and the Philippines, has positioned G3D as a desktop 3D printing industry leader. In January 2025, Bob and his team are set to receive the Best Innovation Award at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, USA, for their groundbreaking gaming controller program designed for physically handicapped children. President Marcos foreign visits resulted in P427 billion foreign investments with the Bureau of Investments with the bulk going to the renewable energy sector. (Photo: PCO) Ang entry po namin ay tinawag naming Gaming Controller. Ginagamit po ito ng mga batang handicapped na hindi makapaglaro pero magaling naman. Halimbawa, kahit putol ang isang kamay ng bata ay pwede pa rin siyang makapaglaro, Bob shared. Bob credits PEZA and G3D for providing an empowering environment where his ideas are nurtured and brought to life. Dahil nahikayat ng PEZA ang locators tulad ng G3D na mamuhunan sa Pilipinas, ako ay nakakuha ng opportunity na kung saan lahat ng idea ko ay naisasakatuparan. Masasabi ko na ako ay empowered to innovate Filipino-made products that could compete globally, he said. His story is just one example of the success enabled by PEZA ecozones, which now host 4,382 locator companies and provide employment to 1.8 million Filipinos. Diversifying Beyond Manufacturing In compliance with President Marcos directive for PEZA to diversify beyond manufacturing, Director General Tereso Panga emphasized the agencys commitment to exploring strategic industries such as health and medical care, high-tech manufacturing, and emerging technologies. PEZA has been an essential driver of industrial growth for 30 years, but we must now move into new and emerging sectors to secure the Philippines future as a global investment hub, Panga said. He highlighted the construction of the first pharmaceutical park in Tarlac as a step forward in this direction. PEZA has also attracted major technology players like Samsung, Murata, TDK, and Taiyo Yuden, which produce multi-layered ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), as well as Onsemi with its Silicon Carbide manufacturing and other players developing battery technologies for electric vehicles (EVs). To promote innovation, Panga considered the Knowledge Innovation Science and Technology (KIST) parks. We also need to venture into Research and Development innovations. These KIST parks, hosted within colleges and universities, are designed to enhance R&D efforts and foster collaboration between academia and industry, he said. Panga is optimistic about the Philippines future as Asias investment capital. With our early adoption of the economic zone model, we are well-positioned to lead industrial growth in Southeast Asia, he said. PEZA is now eyeing the possibility of developing 16,000 hectares of public land in Iwahig, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, in partnership with the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), to construct the Philippine Mega Economic Zone, which aims to attract significant investments and create more job opportunities. In fact, PEZA has commenced initial stages of planning and development for Palawans first mega economic zone in collaboration with BuCor. Panga said, from within our own domain and sphere of influence, we can pursue these strategies to address the challenges in the supply chain, industrial and logistics sectors, and in the process attract more industrial investments, particularly in the ecozones. Both agencies plan to transform 25,000 hectares of the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa into an eco-industrial township with a self-sustaining community. The goal of the proposed economic zone is to draw both local and foreign investments, create jobs and stimulate economic activities in the region. With Palawans strategic location, the project intends to enhance trade and commerce across the Greater Sulu-Sulawesi Corridor, a vital maritime route for Southeast Asia. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area partnership. Early this year, PEZA and BuCor signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) where both agencies shall collaborate in attracting foreign direct investments and in creating economic opportunities by establishing PEZA-registered economic zones in the lands under the jurisdiction of BuCor. At the signing ceremony, BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang said this project will provide various opportunities not only for the host local government unit and region but most especially employment for persons deprived of liberty, which is considered BuCors priority. There are already investors who expressed serious intent in bringing in their operations in this mega ecozone. Knowing this and now with our signed MoU, we can already start land mapping and subzoning to better plan for the establishment of this zone and we hope to accomplish this by the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., said Panga. Aside from Palawan, the PEZA chief also said that they plan to open new seaports in the next four years like Pantao in Albay, which he said could de-risk trade and as shorten transport of goods to Taiwan, Korea, the United States, Japan, the Americas, Australia, New Zealand and other destinations in the Pacific. Amid the rapid pace of global economic transformation, the Philippines, under the leadership of President Marcos, is indeed reaping success in enabling its key regions emerge as beacons of innovation and growth, shaping new opportunities and paving the way for long-term success for the benefit of Filipinos. Stephen Colbert was as bummed as we imagine many of his viewers were while discussing the certification of Donald Trumps election during his monologue on Mondays The Late Show. Yes, I used to feel things too, he joked after his audience booed mention of the milestone. But the topic prompted Colbert to reflect on the very different scene exactly four years ago, when Donald Trump attempted to violently overthrow the government to undo his loss in the 2020 election. The striking thing about this time was how normal it was. Again, Colbert said about the certification. There was no riot, no one broke a window with their beard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fact, the whole process took only 30 minutes. Yeah, democracy shouldnt take longer than it takes Rachael Ray to make a meal. Peaceful transfer of power, he continued. Now, if you had come up to me four years ago and said to my face that one day Donald Trump will be certified for a second term, I would have said, Six feet away, please. social distancing. Excuse me. I have to go wash all my bananas and bang a pot for nurses.' Clearly demoralized by the days events, Colbert dejectedly added, Im not sure, you know, what there is to say. Its about January 6 at this point, you know, we all saw what happened. Trump lost. He said he did. A bunch of cowardly Republicans backed him up. They all whipped up a mob, which stormed the Capitol and beat police with flagpoles, trying to overturn our democracy. This launched the largest criminal investigation in our nations history. Nearly 1,600 of the rioters faced judicial inquiry, 1,000 of which have already been to trial or pleaded guilty. Out of all of them, two have been acquitted. The results are in: It was bad, or as Trump would call it Colbert trailed off, at which point video of Trump saying, That was a day of love, appeared onscreen. Yes, yes. On January, 6 love was in the air. Also bear spray Colbert declared. He didnt discuss the series of active decisions and embarrassing negligence that allowed this outcome at all. But you can still watch the complete monologue below. The post Stephen Colbert Reflects on Jan. 6 Attack After Trump Vote Certification: It Was Bad | Video appeared first on TheWrap. Jan. 6MORRISON A Sterling woman has been sentenced to two years of probation after pleading guilty to financially exploiting a person with a disability while employed as the victim's social services worker. Katie E. Kuehl, 39, pleaded guilty Monday, Jan. 6, in Whiteside County Circuit Court to stealing $16,000 from the man by using his debit card at various banks, credit unions and gaming establishments, according to court testimony. She admitted to making the withdrawals from the victim's account from Aug. 1, 2018, to July 30, 2019, while he resided at a Sterling care facility. Assistant Attorney General Rob Sparano said the victim's sister discovered money was missing from his accounts and that all told, Kuehl had used the victim's debit card 53 times to withdraw money from his account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Illinois State Police investigation led the Illinois Attorney General's Office to file formal charges against Kuehl in December 2020. As part of a plea deal, charges of financial exploitation of a person with a disability, greater than $5,000 but less than $50,000; theft, with control and intent, greater than $10,000 and less than $100,000; and theft with intent, greater than $10,000 and less than $100,000, were dismissed. All four counts are Class 2 felonies. Count 4 specifically charged Kuehl with misappropriating the victim's Social Security funds. Kuehl faced a possible sentence of three to seven years in prison, Whiteside County Circuit Judge James Heuerman said during Kuehl's plea hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, he sentenced Kuehl to serve 24 months of probation and 60 days of home detention on electronic monitoring, and ordered her to complete 80 hours of community service and to pay $1,719 in fees that include a $75 fine. Heuerman also noted that Kuehl had completed gambling addiction treatment. An Orange County middle school teacher was arrested after getting snared in a sting operation involving sexually explicit text messages he allegedly sent to an adult posing as a 14-year-old, according to authorities. A group that exposes people for engaging in criminal behavior on Sunday contacted the Irvine Police Department, saying that they posed as a 14-year-old boy and communicated with an adult, according to a Police Department news release. The group said that they were messaging Eric Reid Zuercher, a 44-year-old Irvine resident, and that the texts "turned sexual in nature," with Zuercher allegedly asking if the 14-year-old would be interested in meeting, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Southern California high school teacher charged with sexually assaulting two underage students The group also said they confronted Zuercher at his home, but that after a short conversation, Zuercher went inside and closed the door. Authorities offered no further information about the group and how it first connected with Zuercher. Detectives arrested Zuercher at his home on suspicion of attempting to converse with a minor to engage in sexual activity, police said. Zuercher is a teacher at Sierra Vista Middle School but, according to authorities, there is no evidence that he has had any inappropriate contact with students. Zuercher has been placed on administrative leave, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials have asked anyone with more information to contact Det. Brian Felling at (949) 724-7189 or bfelling@cityofirvine.org. 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. Jan. 7 (UPI) -- At least 126 people are dead and 188 injured after a strong earthquake struck a remote region of Tibet in China on Tuesday morning. A 7.1-magnitude temblor struck at a depth of about 6 miles just after 9 a.m. local time in Tibet's Dingri County, a mountainous region located near the border with Nepal and Mount Everest, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The China Earthquake Networks Center, which measured the initial earthquake as a magnitude 6.8, recorded several aftershocks with the most recent at 2:08 p.m. local time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,000 buildings were damaged or destroyed and tremors were felt as far away as Bhutan and northern India. Slightly less than 7,000 people are estimated to live in 27 villages within a 12-mile radius of the epicenter, according to China's state-run media outlet Xinhua. A 34-year-old supermarket owner said locally "the houses are made from dirt so when the earthquake came," Sangji Dangzhi told the BBC, "lots of houses collapsed." Initial reports indicated 53 people were confirmed dead and 62 others were injured with buildings reportedly collapsed, according to Xinhua, and rescuers now working in debris in freezing temperatures roughly 17 degrees Farenheit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China's meteorological officials have warned local residents to find shelter from the cold. Meanwhile, the Chinese air force launched drones and a series of rescue efforts to the region. Chinese leader Xi Jinping, in a statement, called for every effort to spent on search-and-rescue missions to minimize casualties. He also ordered for earthquake monitoring and early warning systems to be strengthened. According to the USGS, the region has a history of strong earthquakes, with 10 temblors of magnitude 6 or greater striking within 155 miles of Tuesday's strike in the past century. Dingri County is home to Tibet's second-largest city of Shigatse, with a population of nearly 800,000 people. It is also traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, the second-highest-ranking spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured," the Dalai Lama said in a statement. Meanwhile on Tuesday, local officials shut down a Mount Everest base camp and surroidng scenic areas, CNN reported. A series of earthquakes that hit the region in 2015 killed nearly 8,670 people while causing widespread damage, the USGS added. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday declined to rule out using military force to seize Greenland from Denmark and retake the Panama Canal. I cant assure youyoure talking about Panama and Greenland?" Trump said during an hourlong news conference at Mar-a-Lago in response to a question from The New York Times' David Sanger. Sanger asked Trump if he could assure the world that the president-elect would not use military or economic coercion to gain control of both areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No, I cant assure you on either of those two, Trump said. But I can say this, we need them for economic security. NYTs David Sanger: [L]et's start if we could with your references to Greenland and Panama canal, so forth. Can you assure the world that as you try to get control of these areas, you are not going to use military or economic coercion? President-Elect Trump: No. Sanger: pic.twitter.com/ftsxpOAj6r Curtis Houck (@CurtisHouck) January 7, 2025 Trump spoke about his expansionist agenda after dispatching his son, Donald Trump Jr., to the Danish Arctic island on Tuesday. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, meanwhile, made it clear: Greenland is not for sale, despite Trump insisting that the autonomous Danish territory is all in for MAGA. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation, he wrote Monday. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At his Tuesday news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump also touched on slow-dripping faucets, itchy electric heaters and politically motivated prosecutorsall of which he blamed on President Joe Biden. He also promised to rename the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. But the president-elect said he would not use military force to try to take over Canada. Instead, Trump said he would use economic force to exert control over the Great White North. 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, and it would also be much better for national security, Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day earlier, he wasted no time taunting Canadians after their prime minister, Justin Trudeau, resigned. Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State, Trump wrote on Truth Social. 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. KANSAS CITY, Mo. School districts across the Kansas City metro have decided to cancel classes on Tuesday or make it a virtual learning day due to the winter weather. On Monday, plenty of families enjoyed the snow day at Brookside Hill. How much snow did the Kansas City metro get? Been really good; we got a bunch of snow in our faces, but its been really fun, said Myrella Liu. Some families say sledding at Brookside Hill is a snow day tradition they look forward to every year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every snow day, we try to. Its time to upgrade the sleds, but its always fun. Always a good group out here, said Kelli Parker, who was at Brookside Hill Monday. Students were excited to spend the day with friends in the snow instead of in the classroom. Its been really fun. She goes to the same school I do, so weve had a really great time together, Liu said. We asked David Smith, the Shawnee Mission School Districts chief communications officer, about the decision-making process behind school closures due to winter weather. I think the question that we always want to ask ourselves is, can we get our students and our staff to school safely, and can we get them home safely? And if we can do both of those things, then we generally want to be able to have school because its something that we make a commitment to our families about, Smith explained. Obviously, on a day like today, getting them to school really wasnt an option. So its something that was a very clear decision for the superintendent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith said administrators also have to consider cold temperatures. 61-year-old Public Works employee killed by dump truck near Blue Summit We always want to remember that some of our students are walking to school. Some of our students will be standing at a bus stop waiting for the bus to come pick them up, and for many, that happens pretty early in the morning, Smith said. So, yes, we certainly want to pay attention to temperature. We want to pay attention to road conditions and just make sure that in those conditions, our students would be safe. Click here for a list of closings on Tuesday, Jan. 7. 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. MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) After meeting each other through their childrens school in 2022, a group of Clarksville parents connected over the same issue: they thought their kids werent getting enough play time at school. In July 2024, the Say YES to Recess group successfully negotiated at least 30 minutes of recess time in the Clarksville-Montgomery County school district. Now, the group wants to pass a state law so all Tennessee students can Say Yes to Recess. NOVEMBER 2024: Williamson County parents ask school board for more recess time Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve had a lot of talks with the Education Committee and were hoping that they introduce a bill that would satisfy what were asking, which would be two 30 minute periods one in the morning, one afternoon, Rachel Bush, a parent involved in Say YES to Recess Tennessee told News 2. The group added theyve been in talks with several state lawmakers, including State Representative Scott Cepicky (R-District 64), to put forward a new bill with these requirements. As of publication, the Tennessee State Board of Education requires elementary school students to get at least 15 minutes of recess per day and 130 minutes per week. Kathryn Truman, who is a mother of four boys, said thats not enough. The students in Tennessee deserve more physical activity, Truman said. The current law is not giving them close to what is needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group said theyre starting with advocating for elementary school students across the state, but they hope to work their way up to increase recess time in middle schools as well. Study after study after study shows that if you add in play and you add in social development, it increases soft skills, Morgan Garner with Say YES to Recess said. It helps with anxiety, [and] depression. It helps with obesity; it helps with everything. Group pushing for longer recess in TN schools Bush said their initiative has faced pushback by concerns over cutting into math and reading time in the classroom. The moms pointed to several studies, which suggested more recess time would only improve math and reading test scores. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not talking about cutting math and reading in half, but really just looking at shaving a little bit here and there to increase recess to then help every other subject in the classroom, Bush 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 WKRN News 2. Denmark is one of the only countries in the world that still has a colony, Greenland, which has suffered under the brutal oppression of Danish colonialism for over 300 years. Control of Greenland is the only thing that keeps Danish capitalism relevant on the international stage, and the Danish bourgeoisie is desperately trying to cling to it. [Originally published on marxist.dk] Trump's press release on 23 December, in connection with his nomination of the future US ambassador to Denmark, sent shivers down the spine of the Danish bourgeoisie. In the press release, Trump expressed the need for the US to take over the sovereignty of Greenland: In the interest of national security and freedom around the world, the United States feels that ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity. Trump's recent statement about wresting Greenland from the clutches of Danish imperialism is not just an expression of Trump's personal ambitions, but reflects a real desire of American imperialism. Since 2019, when Trump first floated the idea of buying Greenland, the American bourgeoisie has stepped up its attempts to take over the Danish bourgeoisie's dominance over the country. Tensions are rising in the Arctic The heightened rivalry between the world's imperialist powers has also increased tensions in the Arctic. This is particularly noticeable in Greenland, which has an important geostrategic location and is of crucial military importance for the US. In recent years, the American bourgeoisie has strengthened its economic and political ties with the Greenlandic elite, and in November a new airport opened in Nuuk, which for the first time will establish a direct flight connection between the capital of Greenland and the US. In both Nuuk and Washington, the new direct connection is being referred to as a stepping stone that will pave the way for even closer co-operation between the two countries. The panic is palpable among the Danish ruling class, who view the prospect of losing the last Danish colonial possession with anxiety and fear. Without Greenland, Denmark would be reduced to an insignificant small state on the world stage, as is the case with many other European nations. The United States has major military strategic interests in Greenland, including in the form of the American military base 'Pituffik Space Base' / Image: United States Space Force, public domain However, it's not inconceivable that Trump's latest statement was simply part of a negotiating strategy to put pressure on the Danish government to rearm in the Arctic for, as with the rest of NATO, Trump has been pushing Denmark to raise its defence spending to 2% of GDP. If that was the case, it worked. The day after Trump's statement, the Danish government announced that it will spend tens of billions on armament in and around Greenland. This shows the nature of the close alliance between the Danish and American bourgeoisie: the American as overlord and the Danish as loyal servant. The US president only has to make a social media post before the Danish government throws billions to satisfy American imperialism. The Danish bourgeoisie is trying to do everything the US asks in the hope of being allowed to keep Greenland. But it's getting harder and harder. The world order that emerged after World War II, where the US could tolerate Danish imperialism retaining control over Greenland, is definitely over and its ability to retain its colony will only further erode as the crisis of capitalism deepens. Chauvinism from Christiansborg Predictably, Trump's statement was followed by a wave of outraged and condemnatory reactions from Christiansborg [the seat of the Danish parliament]. For example, former business minister Rasmus Jarlov of the Conservative Party reacted with an unabashed defence of Danish imperialism: Greenland is Danish. [...] Control over Greenland is not up for discussion and not up for negotiation. The Liberal Party's justice and tax spokesman, Preben Bank Henriksen, responded by derisively calling Trump's offer a potential liberation for disgruntled Greenlanders, as it would free them from Denmark, which sends approximately DKK 4 billion to Greenland every year in block grants. His statement is in line with the typical patronising and arrogant approach of Danish politicians towards the Greenlandic people, who are expected to obediently comply with Copenhagen as thanks for the annual block grant. Danish politicians, such as Preben Bank Henriksen, claim that Greenland benefits from being subject to Denmark due to the block grant, but in reality it is Danish capitalism that reaps all the benefits of the relationship between Denmark and Greenland. Due to Denmark's de facto trade monopoly over Greenland, the vast majority of the block grant ends up in the pockets of Danish companies. The block grant is simply business support for Danish companies with Greenland as a transit country. With control over its Arctic colony, Denmark also moves up several weight classes on the international stage, giving the Danish bourgeoisie opportunities that are normally far beyond the reach of small, insignificant states like Denmark. The block grant is pennies compared to the value of the trade agreements and diplomatic influence that control over Greenland gives the Danish bourgeoisie. It therefore comes as no shock that the centre-right parties are rushing to the defence of Denmark's continued sovereignty over Greenland. But the defence of Danish colonial rule in the North Atlantic also permeates the parliamentary left. The socialist defender of Danish imperialism The Socialist People's Party's foreign affairs spokesperson, Karsten Hnge, condemned Trump's statement as an expression of a raw and cynical great power policy. But where is Hnge's condemnation of the crude and cynical policy that the Danish state has inflicted on the Greenlandic people for centuries and continues to inflict to this day? Unlike the US, the world's strongest imperialist power, Denmark is not a superpower. But what the Danish bourgeoisie lacks in strength, it makes up for in aggression. In 2014, Denmark claimed an enormous area in the Arctic Ocean north of Greenland equivalent to 20 times the size of Denmark. In doing so, Denmark became the first country in the world to claim full ownership of the North Pole. In a statement that oozed colonial megalomania, the then Foreign Minister for the Social Liberal party Martin Lidegaard said: When these borders are fixed, they are fixed forever. This is the one time in history that we have the opportunity to influence this border demarcation. Denmark claims the North Pole. The area marked with black lines illustrates the enormous area in the Arctic Ocean over which Denmark claims full ownership / Image: Wikimedia Commons When it comes to great power politics in the Arctic, the Danish bourgeoisie is not one notch better than their American counterpart, but this is ignored by Karsten Hnge in an attempt to present Danish imperialism in a more humane and civilised light. However, the defence of Danish imperialism in the Arctic also extends all the way over to Enhedslisten [the RedGreen Alliance]. In response to Trump's statement, Pelle Dragsted wrote: Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders. Not to Denmark not to Trump. Expect Lars Lkke to speak out clearly and unequivocally against Trump's insane neo-colonial statements about owning Greenland, and not cringe or bend his neck. But if Greenland is not Denmark's, why is Pelle Dragsted invoking Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lkke to speak out against Trump? Dragsted's call can only be interpreted as a call for the Danish state to intervene over the heads of the Greenlandic people to defend the current status quo, which is Danish domination of the country. Dragsted labels Trump's statement as neo-colonial, but omits the fact that Denmark is currently the real colonial master of Greenland. If you are truly against colonialism, you don't call on a colonial power to intervene to defend its dominance over its colony when larger powers flirt with the idea of appropriating it. Dragsted's call for the Danish state to interfere in the affairs of the Greenlanders in a paternalistic manner is merely a cowardly defence of Danish imperialism's interests in the Arctic. The socialists in the Danish Parliament are completely on the same side as the Danish bourgeoisie and act as left-wing cover for Danish colonialism. They buy into the idea that Denmark should be a humane colonial master, unlike the US. But the entire history of Denmark's relationship with Greenland is one of brutal oppression. That's why 300 years of Danish supremacy has created a burning desire among the Greenlandic people to shake off any form of imperialist domination, first and foremost Danish, and the Danish government is aware of this. Relationship at a freezing point [Danish Prime Minister] Mette Frederiksen and Lars Lkke don't usually pass up an opportunity to be in the media spotlight, but both have declined to comment on Trump's press release and have instead referred the media to Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute B. Egede. The two party leaders' cautious approach to the whole affair is due to the historically poor relationship between Greenland and Denmark. Just a few days before Trump's statement, the Greenlandic Prime Minister approached the Danish government to demand that Denmark stop using controversial psychological tests on Greenlandic parents in child abduction cases. Several institutions, including the Danish Institute for Human Rights, have criticised the Danish authorities' use of the tests, which sparked demonstrations in both Nuuk and Copenhagen in November. Meanwhile, the IUD scandal continues to escalate. In 2022, it was revealed that up to 4,500 Greenlandic women and girls as young as 13 in the 1960s and 1970s had IUDs inserted against their will by the Danish authorities. Many of them became sterile as a result of the abuse, and in 2024, 143 of the affected women sued the Danish state for the lifelong trauma caused by the abuse. The Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute B. Egede accused Denmark of committing genocide against Greenlanders in December, an apt description of the Danish government's disgusting attempt to slow Greenland's population growth. The Danish state's IUD campaign rivals other colonial powers' barbaric attacks on indigenous peoples around the world, and the scandal has understandably fuelled hatred in Greenland against Danish imperialism and strengthened the desire for independence. In response to the Danish authorities' IUD campaign, the Prime Minister of Greenland, Mute B. Egede, accused Denmark of committing genocide against the Greenlandic people in December 2024 / Image: US Department of State, public domain For fear of adding insult to injury, the Danish government has chosen not to comment directly on Trump's statement at a time when relations between Copenhagen and Nuuk are at a low point. But the government's actions speak louder than a thousand words. The hypocrisy of Danish imperialism A few hours after Trump's statement, the Social Democratic Minister for Immigration and Integration, Kaare Dybvad, announced that Greenlanders in Denmark and Greenland will have the opportunity to obtain a Greenlandic passport, where the nationality is stated as both Greenlandic and Danish. This is an extremely modest concession and a fundamental democratic right that was implemented long ago for the Faroe Islands. The government's actions are obviously a calculated attempt to appear to the Greenlandic population as humanists who care about their rights. However, the timing reveals that the government is cynically treating the democratic rights of the Greenlandic people as concessions to be dribbled out when the Danish bourgeoisie feels under pressure. On the same occasion, Kaare Dybvad announced an investigation into whether Greenlanders experience discrimination in Denmark. But the government's sudden concern about the violent oppression that Greenlanders face on a daily basis is again pure hypocrisy. As recently as 2023 under the current government the UN officially criticised the Danish state for its treatment of Greenlanders, after a report showed that they were subjected to racism and discrimination by the Danish authorities. When the UN report was published, it did not cause the government to do any soul-searching, so one can only wonder what the government will now use a new, almost identical, study for. In reality, Kaare Dybvad's announced study is nothing more than a cynical attempt to defend the interests of Danish imperialism in the Arctic by making it appear that the Danish state wants to fight the oppression of the Greenlandic people. The fact is, however, that it is the Danish bourgeoisie and their political representatives in Christiansborg who for decades have spread racist prejudices about Greenlanders to justify Danish capitalism's domination of the country a domination they now fear losing. Crush Danish imperialism! As the crisis of capitalism deepens and international tensions rise, US imperialism's interest in Greenland will only grow. For the US, it is a simple matter of cutting out the middleman and securing direct control over an essential security territory to protect their imperialist interests. However, the Danish bourgeoisie will not voluntarily relinquish its hold on Greenland, but will try to cling to its Arctic colony. As revolutionaries in Denmark, it is our task to expose the hypocritical defence of Danish imperialism coming from a united Christiansborg from both the right and the left and expose the reactionary interests of the Danish bourgeoisie in the Arctic. Unlike all the parties in the Danish Parliament, we in the Revolutionary Communist Party do not defend Denmark's domination of Greenland, but wholeheartedly support the struggle of the Greenlandic people for freedom against Danish imperialism. We unconditionally support the Greenlandic people's right to self-determination, including the right to secede from Denmark. It is solely up to the Greenlandic people to decide what relations they want with other nations, be it the United States, Denmark or any other country. Unlike the Danish capitalists, the Danish working class has no interest in oppressing the Greenlandic people, and the best way for Danish workers and youth to support the struggle of the Greenlandic people for freedom is to join the fight to overthrow our common enemy, the Danish bourgeoisie. Only by the working class taking power in society from the capitalists can we end imperialism and colonialism once and for all. PARK TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Officials are expected to study the possibility of deepening the Holland Harbor and restoring part of the Kalamazoo River. President Joe Biden on Saturday signed into law S. 4367, the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024. With a focus on the conservation and development of water resources, the WRDA authorizes the US Army Corps of Engineers to work on projects like feasibility studies. This years WRDA includes the authorization of a few West Michigan studies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One study is set to look at the feasibility of deepening the Holland Harbor, with a focus on potential navigational and economic benefits, according to a release from Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland. Currently, the outer harbor is 23 feet deep and the inner harbor in Lake Macatawa is 21 feet deep, the release says. Deepening it could avoid the need to frequently dredge the harbor, like when a crew removed around 31,000 cubic yards of sediment from the harbor in April of 2024. The U.S. Army Corps is also expected to study the benefits that could come from deepening the St. Joseph Harbor. Two studies are expected to look at the Kalamazoo River. One will study the benefits that could come from restoring the river and removing concrete portions in downtown Battle Creek, while the other will examine flooding from the Kalamazoo River watershed in the city of Kalamazoo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am glad to see these important measures to improve infrastructure across Southwest Michigan signed into law, Huizenga said in a Monday statement. By authorizing studies for Battle Creek, Holland, Kalamazoo, and St. Joe, the Army Corps of Engineers can strengthen the local economy, enhance recreational opportunities, and take steps to mitigate and address urban flooding across Southwest Michigan. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. When it comes to factors that affect a students well-being in adulthood, better math skills might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But as it turns out, increasing math scores helps deliver stronger long-term returns for students especially related to earnings than improvements in reading scores and factors involving health. Thats one of the top-line findings from a 2024 report from the Urban Institute, which sought to understand whether devoting resources to childrens health and social development yields greater benefits than devoting resources to their cognitive development; the study also looks at what aspects of a childs cognitive development play relatively larger roles in their adult outcomes. Researchers found that math scores have a significant predictive impact on earnings into adulthood. That finding holds true for children of all races and ethnicities including for Hispanic children who consistently experience the largest gains and for girls, who tend to see a higher earnings boost than boys. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Math scores seem to matter a good bit, says Gregory Acs, vice president for income and benefits at the Urban Institute and one of the lead authors of the policy paper. Everything matters a little, but cognitive skills seem to matter a lot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The findings, which replicate a longstanding correlation between math and adult success, come as school districts across the country consider ways to provide more effective math instruction, especially in the early elementary years, and build a stronger connection in the K-12 setting to local workforce needs. Specifically, the analysis shows that improving math scores by 0.5 standard deviation for children up to age 12 is associated with larger increases on earnings by age 30 than other equivalent improvements. The impact also increases as children get older. For example, a half standard deviation increase in preschool math scores raises earnings by 2.5 percent, while a half standard deviation increase in middle childhood raises earnings by 3.5 percent. A 3.5 percent increase corresponds to about $1,200 a year in additional earnings for the average adult. Notably, girls see a greater increase in adulthood earnings from an improvement in math scores than boys more than three-quarters of a percentage point at every life stage. The same cannot be said for the earnings impact of improving reading scores, which actually diminishes as students get older, falling from 0.9 percent (about $300) to 0.5 percent (less than $200) from ages 5 to 11. Meanwhile, the impact of health and social relationships are consistent but modest as children get older. Its not an enormous impact, but its an impact, Acs says. Would you pass up a 3 percent raise? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It consistently shows that things you do early in life do ripple through, he continued. And even when you might not see a clear causal pathway, he says, its a good framework for understanding how early life stuff matters. The analysis bolsters previous research touting a correlation between math and earnings later in life and gives policymakers much to think over as they choose among interventions aimed at benefiting children in the short or long term, as well as when might be the most effective moment to unleash those targeted interventions. It is useful to see what are the curricular options and where you can intervene in kids lives early on if you want to have a long term impact, Acs says. And it does show that improvements in childhood and elementary school do matter and carry on into earnings. Related Four Insights into U.S. Students Drop in Math & Science on International Test For example, Acs says, it may be worth making bigger investments in math in later grades given that improvements in middle school have a more significant impact on earnings than in preschool. And for school leaders looking to make a dent in the earnings gap between men and women, its important to know that increasing math scores in childhood consistently raises the adult earnings of girls by a greater percentage than those of boys even if in absolute dollar terms, increasing math scores raises boys earnings, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of the recent science of reading overhaul that shifted how educators teach students to read, policymakers are increasingly setting their gaze on math pedagogy. Math achievement improved slowly between 1990 and 2013 and then plateaued, only to fall sharply during the pandemic. On average, students lost half a school year in math between 2019 and 2022. The most vulnerable students fell even further behind, exacerbating racial and socioeconomic inequities. Recovery has been stubborn and slow. Students recorded the largest drop ever in math scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress last year, falling by 9 points last year to their lowest levels in more than three decades. We always talk about this amazing predictive power of early mathematics, says DeAnn Huinker, professor of math instruction at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and director of the Center for Math and Science Education Research. And I think weve taken math identity and agency away from kids, and just squashed the love that you find in 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds when theyre exploring numbers. Kids just really get turned off of mathematics, so I think were fighting that right now. Education policy experts, lawmakers and business leaders agree that the nation needs to drive improvements in K-12 math to remain competitive in an increasingly technical global economy. On the most recent internationally benchmarked test, known as the PISA, Americans scored lower than students from 36 other countries. And Defense Department officials are concerned about Americans contempt for math, warning that it has serious implications for national security, including ceding the U.S.s long-held technological dominance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Preschools Teach Hardly Any Math, Even as Students Struggle in Later Grades Looking ahead, the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of jobs in so-called math occupations is set to increase by 29% by 2031, or by roughly 30,000 jobs per year a faster clip than for other occupations. Though the debate over how to correct course is ongoing, experts say that the way schools are currently teaching math doesnt work very well; further complicating the problem is the fact that many teachers who seek out positions in early elementary grades the important foundational math years do so because they dont like math. Teachers should move away from procedural learning that involves rote memorization, Huinker and others say, and focus instead on conceptual understanding, which helps students recognize underlying math relationships, and developing a positive math identity. The number one goal is to really get at this deeper understanding of mathematics, she says. We want kids to make sense of the mathematical ideas that theyre exploring and learning about. So not rote learning, not memorizing, not worksheets. We do a lot that still is perhaps bad practice in early mathematics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huinker says she hopes research like that from the Urban Institutes analysis crystalizes for policymakers and school leaders the importance of getting math instruction right especially in the early years. One thing thats starting to really be more acknowledged is the importance of early mathematics and its predictive power for the long term, she says. Theres so much emphasis on reading and literacy, which is super important, but it kind of always overshadows mathematics. The crux of all of this early childhood, elementary and middle math is ensuring that kids feel empowered with agency to make sense of mathematics, to question, to explore, to really think of themselves as confident in that. Photo by John Moore | Getty Images. Researchers from Ohio State University have found that Long COVID has kept people from working at the same capacity as they had before they were infected, causing significant issues in their personal and professional lives. A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine spotlights patients who had the disease, which causes symptoms that can last three months or more after exposure to the virus, and the significant challenges they can face in maintaining their jobs and lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The research included individual interviews with 21 adult patients of the post-COVID recovery clinic at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in 2022. The majority of patients were women, with ages ranging from 19 to 68, and most were first infected in 2020. For those who continued working after their COVID-19 infection, the effort and energy required for work left little capacity to participate in other life activities and made it difficult to attend recommended health care appointments, the study states. Participants reported financial impacts of changes in employment including loss of income and changes in insurance, which were compounded by high health care costs. A quarter of the patients who took part in the study reported significant activity limitations and two-thirds reported having a disability. Those with Long COVID show a lower likelihood of full-time employment and higher potential for unemployment compared to those without Long COVID, according to the study. Due to this reduced capacity to work, it is estimated that Long COVID resulted in a minimum of $170 billion in lost wages in the USA in 2022, researchers wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The authors of the study recognized there has been previous research on Long COVID, such as the roles of employers and coworkers in helping or hindering individuals with Long COVID trying to stay at work, and the flexibility needed due to the fluctuating nature of the illness. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX But the research from Ohio State centers on interviews with patients to reveal what patients go through before they cut their hours, stop working or lose their jobs. For many individuals we talked to, their lives have been completely changed because of this chronic condition, the studys lead author, Ohio State Assistant Professor of General Internal Medicine Sarah MacEwan, said in a statement on the study. And thats really changed how they see themselves, how they experience life, how they interact with their families, how they provide for their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The financial instability of unemployment or limited employment makes for extremely difficult choices for individuals with Long COVID, but making clinicians aware of these challenges can help medical professionals connect patients to resources, like mental health experts or workplace accommodation assistance. Back in August, several U.S. senators asked the Social Security Administration to help those with Long COVID gain disability benefits, signing on to a letter urging transparency and consideration of expanding medical issues covered by the SSA in its Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income programs. In a June 2023 guide for health professionals on Long COVID, the SSA said it considers an adult disabled if the individual is unable to do any substantial gainful work activity because of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) that has lasted, or can be expected to last, for a continuous period of at least 12 months, or that is expected to result in death. Bringing health care professionals to the level needed to bridge what the study called the gap in understanding the perspectives of patients being treated for Long COVID is a necessary improvement needed, the research showed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One thing weve uncovered through this work is people not being believed by their providers about their symptoms or being brushed off or pushed into other diagnoses that they feel dont reflect their experience, according to MacEwan. Its a real question of whether they are getting what they need from the providers theyre able to reach where they are. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SULLIVAN COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) A Sullivan County man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after leading law enforcement on a chase through the county. Farmersburg Chief of Police, Cody Strain told WTWO that they received information that the vehicle was stolen. Strain located the vehicle on U.S. 41, north of Shelburn. Officers received information that the vehicle was stolen out of Greene County. After confirming it was a stolen vehicle Strain began a pursuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I immediately turned around and initiated my lights, initiated a traffic stop, and then he fled, Strain said. We went from U.S. 41 up to County Road 1100 N, Cemetary Road, then we went westbound over to County Road 25 W back south toward North Central High School back out to US 41 Southbound. Strain went on to say that the traffic stop concluded on County 850 North in a field. There was a train coming and that was his only option, Strain added. Strain tells WTWO that officers were unaware of who was driving the vehicle at the time of the pursuit; they just knew that it had been reported stolen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberto Ramos, the alleged driver, was taken into custody without incident. According to the Farmersburg Police Department, Ramos was also found in possession of several drug-related items. Strain tells us Ramos is a Sullivan County resident and is currently at the Sullivan County Jail and is facing numerous felony charges including: Roberto Ramos Dealing Methamphetamine Criminal Conversion Resisting Law Enforcement Strain was assisted by Indiana State Police, the Sullivan County Sheriffs Office, and the Sullivan City Police 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 MyWabashValley.com. SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) Summerville town leaders and Dorchester County officials voted Monday evening to partially fund a statue in honor of a U.S. Army Ranger and Medal of Honor recipient killed in combat. The sculpture will memorialize Sgt. Christopher Celiz who sacrificed his life in Afghanistan so his fellow soldiers could evacuate injured crew in 2018, serving in support of Operation Freedoms Sentinel. The Summerville native was just 32 years old when he died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For his actions of valor, Sgt. Celiz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on Dec. 16, 2021. President Joe Biden presented the medal to Sgt. Celizs wife Katherine and daughter Shannon. Katherine Celiz, spouse of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, and their daughter Shannon, stand as the citation is read before receiving the Medal of Honor from President Joseph R. Biden Jr. during a ceremony at the White House in Washington, D.C., Dec. 16, 2021. Sgt. 1st Class Celiz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for actions of valor during Operation Freedoms Sentinel while serving as a battalion mortar platoon sergeant with Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in Paktiya province, Afghanistan, on July 12, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Laura Buchta) President Joseph R. Biden Jr. presents the Medal of Honor to Katherine Celiz, spouse of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, and their daughter Shannon, during a ceremony at the White House in Washington, D.C., Dec. 16, 2021. Sgt. 1st Class Celiz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for actions of valor during Operation Freedoms Sentinel while serving as a battalion mortar platoon sergeant with Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in Paktiya province, Afghanistan, on July 12, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Laura Buchta) Secretary of the U.S. Army Christine E. Wormuth, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. Army Gen. Mark A. Milley present the Medal of Honor flag to Katherine Celiz, spouse of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, during a Medal of Honor Induction Ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Dec. 17, 2021. Sgt. 1st Class Celiz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for actions of valor during Operation Freedoms Sentinel while serving as a battalion mortar platoon sergeant with Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in Paktiya province, Afghanistan, on July 12, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Laura Buchta) From left, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Secretary of the U.S. Army Christine E. Wormuth; Katherine Celiz, spouse of U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. Army Gen. Mark A. Milley; Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Gen. James C. McConville; and Sgt. Maj. of the U.S. Army Michael A. Grinston participate in a Medal of Honor Induction Ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Dec. 17, 2021. Sgt. 1st Class Celiz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for actions of valor during Operation Freedoms Sentinel while serving as a battalion mortar platoon sergeant with Company D, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, in Paktiya province, Afghanistan, on July 12, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Laura Buchta) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Summerville town Councilman Bob Jackson presented a concept for the sculpture at Monday nights meeting. The rendering features an image of Katherine and Shannon receiving the medal from President Biden behind a still of Sgt. Celiz in uniform. thats a sacrifice made and those two are still paying, said Jackson. Screenshot of sculpture concept from town council meeting The Summerville town council voted to approve a $15,000 donation, while Dorchester County council members unanimously approved an $18,000 donation Monday night. The $33,000 will act as a down payment so creator Susie Chisholm can begin work on the project in January. For the entire sculpture, Councilman Jackson estimated the project to cost about $200,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson said he has planned additional fundraisers and will seek state and federal donations to meet the remaining costs. He did die for the country, not just for us, he added. If you would like to contribute, you can do so at Sculpture in the Souths website, which sponsors the project. When completed, the sculpture will stand in a soon-to-be-constructed Veterans Memorial Park at 500 N. Main Street in Summerville. I would like to see this in a prominent location on that veterans memorial park where folks will be welcome to pay respect to someone from our community that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The Battle | July 12, 2018, | Paktia Province, Afghanistan Sgt. Celiz was on his fifth deployment when he was leading a special operations unit on July 12 in Paktia to clear an area of Taliban militants and disrupt possible future attacks, according to a US Army profile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after reaching their first objective, insurgents attacked the unit, preventing a possible counterattack. Sgt. Celiz managed to retrieve and engage a heavy weapon system while being exposed to machine-gun and small-arms fire, reports state. These actions allowed his unit to find a safe location and treat a unit member who was critically wounded. As a medical evacuation helicopter attempted to bring aid, it was fired on by the enemy. As a result, Sgt. Celiz made himself a physical shield so his unit and the injured member could load on the helicopter. While the injured partner was being loaded, Sgt. Celiz shielded the aircraft and returned fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With his final reposition, Celiz placed himself directly between the cockpit and the enemy, ensuring the aircraft was able to depart, military officials explained. Upon the helicopters liftoff, Celiz was hit by enemy fire. He then motioned for the helicopter to depart and leave him. He died as a result of his injuries. His selfless actions saved the life of the evacuated partnered force member and almost certainly prevented further casualties among other members of his team and the aircrew, officials added. His extraordinary heroism and selflessness beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. While alive, Sgt. Celiz received the following honors and decorations: Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2 OLC), Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medals (4 OLC), Meritorious Unit Citation Medals (2), Afghanistan Campaign Medals with Campaign Star (3), Iraq Campaign Medals with Campaign Star (2), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the NATO Medal, the Ranger Tab, the Sapper Tab, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge and the Marksmanship Qualification Badge Expert-Rifle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the Medal of Honor, he posthumously received the Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood as we enter a new year, those who help may win the trip of a lifetime. Those who donate blood now through Jan. 26. will automatically be entered to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. The American Red Cross says January is often a challenging month for blood collection. Winter weather and seasonal illness may prevent people from making or keeping donation appointments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donors of all types, especially ones with type O negative and those giving platelets, are encouraged to give. Donors can give blood at Red Cross blood drives or Red Cross blood donation centers in Michigan for a chance to win the Super Bowl tickets. Here are three ways to make an appointment: Use the Red Cross Donor app Visit RedCrossBlood.org Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) The entire process of donating blood takes around one hour. The actual donation takes 8 to 10 minutes. Donors may donate every 56 days. An appointment for a platelet donation takes about two hours. Platelet donors can give every seven days, up to 24 times a year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A man who disappeared while taking photographs of king tides along the Oregon coastline has been found dead three weeks later. The Clausen Oysters farm off North Bay Road called North Coos Dispatch just before 9:30 a.m. local time on Sunday, Jan. 5, about a possible deceased person found in Haynes Inlet as the tide was going out, according to a news release from the Coos County Sheriff's Office (CCSO). The body was found on the southern beach area of Haynes Inlet in North Bend, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies with the CCSO quickly responded to the scene, and the Clausen Oysters staff provided the Deputies with transportation to the scene utilizing one of their boats. The body was found a short time later before being identified as Joseph C. Neill, who disappeared on Dec. 15, 2024. Related: 2 Oregon Men Die in Forest After Going Missing While Looking for Sasquatch: Police Neills body was found about 1.5 miles west of a railroad bridge that spans the Coos Bay at Jordan Point, where some of his personal items were previously found. The staff at Coos County Sheriffs Office extends our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Mr. Neill during this difficult time, the CCSO said in its news release. Andrew Neill/Facebook Joseph Neill, the father who disappeared while taking photographs of king tides in Oregon in December 2024. Joseph Neill, the father who disappeared while taking photographs of king tides in Oregon in December 2024. Neill had gone to Horsfall Beach to take photographs of the king tide on Dec. 15, but was reported missing after he did not return, according to a statement his children previously shared on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They described him as a survivalist who could fashion anything to help him get through a tough situation if needed. The CCSO thanked Clausen Oysters' staff for their assistance in the search for and discovery of Neills remains. 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. Meanwhile, Neills family thanked everyone who helped in the search and showed their support after their fathers disappearance. We appreciate the support you all have shown us and the dedicated search efforts for the last three weeks, the family said in a statement shared on a Facebook page called JoeStrong, which was dedicated to helping find Neill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The familys store, The Electric Hospital, was closed on Monday, Jan. 6, as a day of mourning for our beloved Dr. Joe. Related: 30-Year-Old Woman Missing Since Christmas Eve Found Dead in Frozen Lake: 'Heartbreaking Accident' Please be gentle with our staff, who was a second family to him, Neills family said. They will reopen on Tuesday, just as our dad would have done, please stop in and dont be afraid to use his name. Hes on all of our minds all of the time, so acknowledging him is something we are all grateful for. They added, Take Monday to go on an adventure with someone you love, appreciate Creation, and honor him. Read the original article on People New details have emerged after an off-duty Fulton County deputy was shot in Atlanta. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation says the suspect robbed a Krispy Kreme and shot two people while trying to rob another business in the area. On Monday, Channel 2 Action News reported that Lt. Gerald Johnson was working an off-duty job on Lee Street when he was asked to help people whod had an encounter with a man with an assault-type rifle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Johnson responded, he ended up getting into a gunfight with the suspect and was shot in the hand. The suspect and Johnson were both taken to the hospital, where the suspect was pronounced dead. Officials have not identified the suspect. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] According to the GBI, a witness who worked at Krispy Kreme flagged down Johnson and told him the suspect was still nearby. Johnson found the suspect around the corner from the Krispy Kreme behind an Easy Rental location. The GBI said the suspect had shot two employees while trying to rob the rental business. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the suspect opened fire and shot Johnson and the deputy fired back. Labat said Johnson had worked for the sheriffs office since 1993 before retiring a few years ago, then returning to work part-time. At the news conference, Labat commended Johnsons actions, saying he did exactly what he was trained to do. He ran towards danger and he did an excellent job, Labat said. The shooting remains under investigation. BREAKING UPDATE: We just got in this photo of Lt. Gerald Johnson, the retired deputy who was injured today chasing after a robbery suspect: https://2wsb.tv/3W6khXq Posted by WSB-TV on Monday, January 6, 2025 [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] BARABOO, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in Wisconsin are searching for a suspect who allegedly stole a truck and fled on foot after a traffic stop, prompting a shelter-in-place order. According to the Sauk County Sheriffs Office, deputies received a report of a stolen vehicle from a Baraboo resident shortly before 11:30 p.m. on Jan. 3. The Baraboo Police Department began investigating the theft, while deputies searched for the stolen truck. Wisconsin man sentenced to 12 years for leading meth and cocaine trafficking organization Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vehicle was spotted traveling west on State Highway 136 and was safely stopped near Kohlmeyer Road. Two occupants fled on foot. One was arrested at the scene, but the other, believed to be the driver, escaped. Authorities initiated a search of the area, and the Sauk County Emergency Management Team issued an automated alert to local residents, advising them to lock their doors and shelter in place. Although the alert was intended for those within the immediate search area, some individuals outside the area received the message due to carrier-specific procedures. Federal agencies now involved in search for Wisconsin man accused of triple homicide Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shelter-in-place order was lifted around 2:30 a.m. after an extensive search failed to locate the suspect. The scene has been cleared, but authorities are still seeking the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sauk County Sheriffs Office at 608-356-4985. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Put aside the recent warning from the IMF that the continuing post-election unrest in Mozambique is poised to negatively impact its economic growth, the south-east African country is well on its way to achieve its energy juggernaut plan that left many African nations in awe. The ongoing violent protests from the post-election and ensuing disruptions have exposed the vulnerability of Mozambiques mining sector, which is a key to the countrys economy. Companies, such as Montepuez Ruby Mining Limitada (MRM) or the Australian-owned Syrah Resources, have reported some disruptions to their mining operations. Operational halts and safety concerns drive investors away, leading to significant financial setbacks. Various logistical issues, such as road blockages or power outages, cause delays in manufacturing and may result in contract violations. Experts have warned that the prolonged unrest may put off investors who will be reluctant to contribute to Mozambican economy. But despite these headwinds, the country has set in motion a groundbreaking energy transition plan, unveiled in August last year, which is set to span until 2050, with the goal of securing investments totaling whooping $80 billion in the energy sector. According to the International Trade Administration (ITA), Mozambique has the largest power generation potential of all Southern African nations. Power Africa, a US government-led partnership, estimates that Mozambique could generate 187,000MW of power from coal, hydro, gas, wind, and solar. The countrys ambitious energy transition plan has already made significant strides to achieve universal electrification by 2030, moving from 34% in 2021 to 48% in 2022 in terms of population with access to electricity. Newly filed arrest documents from the police officer who discovered a pipe bomb on a train car platform in Payette last week revealed further information on a case that caused officials to halt train activity on New Years Day and launch an FBI investigation. Payette Police Officer Cole MacDonnell wrote in his warrantless arrest probable cause statement that he was dispatched to an area just north of downtown Payette after someone reported seeing a man trying to light fires under the train cars before heading to a house on North 8th Street. MacDonnell said he arrived just before 6 p.m. and noticed footprints in the snow, indicating someone had walked back and forth between a train car on the railroad tracks and a small camp trailer in the houses yard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While inspecting the train, the police officer said he saw what looked like burned paper on the platform connected to the outside of the train car. In the middle of the paper, I noticed what appeared to be an improvised explosive device made out of PVC, MacDonnell said in court documents. I left everything where it was at. The officer walked to the trailer, and noted that saw it rocking and heard noises indicating someone was inside. I knocked on the door and announced that I was the police, MacDonnell said. All the movement in the trailer stopped. I knocked one more time, but no one answered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MacDonnell then made contact with the owners of the house, who told him no one should be inside their trailer, according to the probable cause document. The homes owner went to unlock it, but found someone was holding the trailer door shut from the inside, according to MacDonnell. The officer said they demanded that whoever was inside should come out, at which point a man later identified as Brent Sharrai, 40, of Payette, jumped out and began running down a dirt road. The officer wrote in his report that he recognized Sharrai from previous interactions with him. I chased Brent and he stopped running after about 50 yards, MacDonnell said. Brent turned around and put his hands up like he was going to try and fight. I pulled out my Taser and pointed it at Brent, telling him to get on the ground. He then put his hands up and stated he was not getting on the ground because it was wet, but he would turn around and put his hands behind his back. Police: Suspect detailed making of pipe bomb MacDonnell was able to handcuff Sharrai and get him into the back seat of his police vehicle, according to court documents, and Sharrai told him that he put powder from some firecrackers into a plastic pipe to make a bigger boom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brent stated he made it and was going to set it off for New Years but ended up falling asleep, so he was going to set it off tonight, MacDonnell said. He then repeated that there was powder from firecrackers and then he put a full firecracker in the end for the fuse. But it was too short, and he didnt want to mess himself up. MacDonnell said detectives executed a search warrant inside the trailer and found 1.36 grams of methamphetamine and a meth bong in addition to other things. Sharrai has been charged with felony possession of a destructive device, felony possession of a controlled substance, as well as misdemeanors for drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest, according to court documents. Law enforcement from additional agencies arrived at the scene to help handle the explosive, including the Nampa Police Department and one FBI agent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Nampa Bomb Squad utilized their specialized robot to remove the IED from the train car and later detonated the device to render it safe, the Payette Police Department said. Police said they notified Union Pacific Railroad, which put all trains scheduled to travel through the site on standby for five hours. Payette police said further federal charges of possession and manufacturing of a destructive device are pending while the FBI completes its investigation. FBI spokesperson Sandra Barker told the Idaho Statesman that she wasnt able to comment on the possibility of federal charges. Payette Police Chief Gary Marshall told the Statesman that the FBI got involved based on the state of the nation and recent acts of terrorism in other parts of the country. The chief said last week that law enforcement does not believe Sharrai was working with others or plotting an attack. WEST HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) Two men are in custody after West Hartford police say they assaulted store employees during an armed robbery last January. In a press release Tuesday, police said the men were recently arrested for an incident at City Lane Liquors on Prospect Avenue on the evening of Jan. 27, 2024. West Hartford dog recovering after coyote attack Police responded tot he liquor store when it was reported two males entered, displayed a handgun, and assaulted store employees before leaving with an undisclosed amount of money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was investigated by the West Hartford Police Department Detective Division and West Hartford Police Department Community Support Unit. Stevelan Snowden, 42, of Hartford, was charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, first-degree robbery, first-degree conspiracy to commit robbery, and second-degree assault with a firearm. Man wounded in shooting on Hillcrest Avenue in West Hartford He was issued a $75,000 cash/surety bond and is scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Feb. 3. Devon Kempson-Cook, 37, of Hartford, was charged with first-degree robbery, first-degree conspiracy to commit robbery, second-degree assault, and third-degree assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was issued a $90,000 cash/surety bond and was scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Jan. 9. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man is being taken to St. Elizabeth Health Center after the SUV he was driving collided with a utility pole on Glenwood Avenue near Breaden Street. The man was traveling north on Glenwood Avenue when he lost control of the SUV, knocking the pole over. Crews from Ohio Edison had to cut the power to allow firefighters to get the man out of the SUV. Police have blocked traffic from Falls Avenue to Garfield Street. A fire department spokesman said power is out in the area but he is not sure how long that will be for. 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. ELKHART A 48-year-old Elkhart man was arrested after police responded to a call about a battery victim knocking on doors and screaming for help. An officer responded at 1:46 a.m. Saturday to the apartments at 220 W. Jackson St, the Elkhart Police Department said. The officer made contact with the female victim as well as a male victim who reported that a known subject had attacked them at a residence in the 300 block of North 2nd Street. Officers obtained an arrest warrant for the subject and learned that he also had an unrelated felony warrant. The Elkhart County Regional SWAT team was activated since the male suspect refused to leave the residence, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 8:09 a.m., the SWAT team assisted in executing the arrest warrant at the 2nd Street address. After breaching the home, police arrested the man without further incident. After medical clearance, he was transported to the Elkhart County Jail. No injuries were reported. Police also seized items from the home pursuant to a search warrant. Games Birkhead was booked into jail on his outstanding warrant as well as on preliminary charges associated with this incident. The case will be forwarded to the Elkhart County Prosecutors Office for review of formal criminal charges, police said. DUBAI (Reuters) - Syria will receive two electricity-generating ships from Turkey and Qatar to boost energy supplies hit by damage to infrastructure during President Bashar al-Assad's rule, state news agency SANA quoted an official as saying on Tuesday. Khaled Abu Dai, director general of the General Establishment for Electricity Transmission and Distribution, told SANA the ships would provide a total of 800 megawatts of electricity but did not say over what period. "The extent of damage to the generation and transformation stations and electrical connection lines during the period of the former regime is very large, we are seeking to rehabilitate (them) in order to transmit energy", Abu Dai said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He did not say when Syria would receive the two ships. The United States on Monday issued a sanctions exemption for transactions with governing institutions in Syria for six months after the end of Assad's rule to try to increase the flow of humanitarian assistance. The exemption allows some energy transactions and personal remittances to Syria until July 7. The action did not remove any sanctions. Syria suffers from severe power shortages, with state-supplied electricity available just two or three hours a day in most areas. The caretaker government says it aims within two months to provide electricity up to eight hours a day. (Reporting by Jana Choukeir and Tala Ramadan; Editing by Alison Williams and Timothy Heritage) Chinas aviation industry closed out 2024 with the stunning debut of two previously unseen stealthy combat jets. The countrys two preeminent fighter manufacturers, the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation and the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, are understood to each be responsible for one of them. Now, a recent satellite image shows what looks to be yet another next-generation fighter-like airframe or mockup at Shenyangs main plant in the city of the same name. Planet Labs snapped the satellite image in question on Jan. 1. It shows the object, which is roughly 50 feet (or 15 meters) long and has a slightly wider wingspan, on a small ramp just off the main taxiway at the northern end of the Shenyang plant co-located airfield. It has a modified diamond-like delta platform with a broad central fuselage, which appears to feature two top-mounted engine nacelles. No tail is visible in the image. A slender, pointed nose emanates from the main fuselage area. The exhausts appear to have a wedge-like contour to their trailing edge. No landing gear is visible in the shadow, but that does not mean it isnt there based on the resolution of the image and the angle of the light. PHOTO 2024 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION The object has a yellow or tan coloring, and China does use a distinctive yellow primer for prototype military aircraft. More recent imagery available from Planet does not provide sufficient detail to offer any more insights into the object or show whether or not it has moved since then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The intriguing object seen at Shenyang on Jan. 1 could be another concept for a next-generation manned tactical combat jet, one in the medium weight class compared to the heavier designs we have seen so recently, or an uncrewed combat air vehicle (UCAV). Crewed or uncrewed, it could also be a demonstrator, just a mockup or something else completely. It could also be used as a decoy to throw off foreign intelligence. We really cant tell from what is available to us now. Regardless, the object has a distinctly different overall shape than the Flanker variants and derivatives that constitute the bulk of Shenyangs current production output or the members of its stealthy FC-31/J-35 family. It is also unlike the advanced tailless design attributed to the company that emerged last month. A composite image showing different views of the advanced combat jet attributed to Shenyang that broke cover in December. Chinese Internet via X There are some similarities, but also clear differences between what has now been seen at Shenyang and another airframe/test article/mockup that appeared in satellite imagery of the airfield adjacent to Chengdus main plant back in 2021. It also recalls what looked to be mockups or even full-scale decoys that emerged at Chinas remote Lintao Air Base the following year, though those had their own distinct shape, including forward canards and extremely slender noses. Satellite images of Chengdu taken in 2021 showing an airframe/test article that is similar, but distinctly different from the one that has now been seen at Shenyang. PHOTO 2021 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION The still unidentified shapes seen at Lintao Air Base in 2022. PHOTO 2022 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also some very broad similarities in certain respects between what has emerged at Shenyang and concept art of Lockheed Martins X-44 MANTA (Multi-Axis No-Tail Aircraft) from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The MANTA design was derived from the F-22 Raptor stealth fighter and, at least to our knowledge, never came to be. Artists conceptions of the X-44 MANTA. Lockheed Martin/NASA Separate satellite imagery has also now emerged showing what looks to be a large black-colored mockup on the deck of Chinas full-size land-based aircraft carrier test facility in Wuhan. Mockups of a Shenyang J-15 carrier-based Flanker variant and a J-35 are also visible. It isnt clear what this shape is supposed to represent, but we have seen mockups of upcoming carrier-based aircraft show up at this unique facility in the past. Probably way too hasty, but doesn't this look like a new fighter mock-up on the 004 (?) mock-up in Wuhan? And it was also visible on the image taken in November. pic.twitter.com/xeZpEsaL8g @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) January 7, 2025 As is clear, curious aerospace-related objects have appeared at Chinese facilities in the past, even before the emergence of the two new stealth combat jet designs last month. Those aircraft already reflected years now of steadily more advanced crewed and uncrewed military aviation developments in China, as well as a broader modernization push across the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) as a whole. It would make good sense that Shenyang and Chengdu, as well as other Chinese state-run aircraft companies, are working on other advanced designs, including in the classified realm, or have even worked on and moved on from concepts that still have yet to be officially disclosed, if they ever are. Following the December reveals, eyes are still very much on China to see if anything else emerges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, while the exact nature of what weve now seen in the satellite image of Shenyang remains unclear, its appearance there now is certainly of note. Contact the author: joe@twz.com HSINCHU, Taiwan (AP) Taiwan began three days of military drills on Tuesday as concerns rose over potential cuts to the defense budget due to legislative wrangling between the island's two major political parties. The drills began in the north with tank maneuvering at a base in Hsinchu featuring outmoded CM-11 tanks, which are gradually being replaced by newly purchased Abrams M1A2T from the U.S. The replacement marks a huge upgrade despite some complaints over the weight of the new tanks and their likely effectiveness at preventing a possible Chinese landing. Troops arrived on armored personnel carriers, while Apache and S-70 helicopters whirled overhead, providing reconnaissance and covering fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the equipment Taiwan currently operates, the communication officer is on the ground to coordinate airborne attacks, said Army Captain Chuang Yuan-cheng of the 542 Armored Brigade in Hsinchu county just south of the capital of Taipei. That allows them to guide the helicopters so that ground fire and airborne fire are synchronized, Chuang said. On Wednesday, the army will show off its Patriot III anti-missile system aimed at countering one of Chinas most potent weapons against the island of 23 million. And on Thursday, anti-submarine exercises will be held off of Taiwans largest port of Kaohsiung, considered China's best conduit for resupplying its troops should it establish a beachhead in the heavily defended region. The annual drills are held in the run-up to the Lunar New Year holiday to reassure the population of Taiwans ability to meet Chinas threats and to boost recruitment. Taiwan has a backlog of orders from the U.S. for about $20 billion in weapons systems, while it upgrades its M-16 fighters and develops its own submarines. It has also extended compulsory military service to one year. However, the government has warned that new legal amendments being considered could force a 28% cut in the defense budget by altering the way funds are distributed between the central and local governments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That in turn could reduce the willingness of the U.S. and its allies such as Japan and the Philippines to assist Taiwan in the event of an armed clash with China, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu told legislators last month. The legislation is being pushed by the main opposition Nationalist Party, which has joined with the tiny Taiwan People's Party to oppose the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's legislative agenda. Taiwan currently spends about 2.4% of its GDP, or roughly $20 billion, on the military annually. China has responded furiously to all U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, saying unification with the island is inevitable and warning that Washington is playing with fire. However, apart from regularly sending planes and warships into areas near the island, it has done little more than blacklist companies and executives involved in the production and sales of such equipment. Neither military intimidation, economic coercion nor appeals to their common Chinese ancestry seem to be working on Taiwan's population, the vast majority of whom favor the current status of de-facto independence. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A Tampa Bay doctor has been arrested after allegedly sexually exploiting several children and directing them to cut, choke, and hang themselves, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Stephen Andrew Leedy, 59, of St. Petersburg, was indicted on multiple charges related to the alleged crimes, the DOJ announced Monday. Body found in mangroves in Tampa, police investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges against him include three counts of production of child sexual abuse material and two counts of coercing or enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity. According to the indictment and court documents, Leedy engaged in online conversations and video chats with around 10 minors under the username, maximumuncle#9112. During their conversations, Leedy instructed the children to send him sexually explicit images of themselves and to engage in self-harm, authorities reported. Investigators said one of the victims was found dead in November 2022 after having hanged herself in front of her phone in a manner consistent with instructions Leedy had given her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was investigated by the Pasco County Sheriffs Office and FBI Tampa Office, with assistance from the St. Petersburg Police Department, FBI Atlanta Office and the Holly Springs Police Department. Records from the Florida Department of Health show Leedy has been practicing medicine in the state since January 1991. He specializes in hospice and palliative care. If convicted on all counts, Leedy could face a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. The United States has accused Russia of funding the two warring factions in the ongoing power struggle in Sudan, in a step up from Washingtons previous claim that Moscow was playing both parties of the conflict to advance its political objectives. Russia chose obstruction: standing alone as it voted to imperil civilians, while funding both sides of the conflict yes, thats what I said: both sides, US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, told the UN Security Council on Monday (6 January), without providing further details. In November last year, Russia vetoed as the only of out its 14 members a Councils draft resolution that called on both parties to immediately cease hostilities and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid, according to StratNews. When asked to elaborate, a spokesperson for the US mission to the UN said Washington was aware of Russias ongoing interest in Sudans gold trade and condemns any material support for the warring parties whether it be through illicit gold trading or the provision of military equipment. Responding to these accusations, Russia hit back at the US diplomats comments, with its deputy UN ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, saying that we regret that the US tries to judge other world powers by its own yardstick. The war in Sudan erupted in April 2023 amid a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), triggering the worlds largest displacement and hunger crisis. The anchor of the tanker Eagle S, believed to have been lost when it ran through several submarine cables, has been found at the bottom of the Gulf of Finland. Source: Yle, citing its sources, as reported by European Pravda Details: The anchor was found on the seabed and brought to the surface with the help of the HMS Belos, a special ship of the Swedish Navy. The anchor is now in the hands of the investigators looking into the damage done to an underwater power transmission line and several communication cables in the Gulf of Finland on the afternoon of 25 December 2024. The main theory is that the cables were torn by the anchor of the Eagle S tanker, which was sailing from a Russian port. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Eagle S tanker, believed to be part of Russia's shadow fleet and suspected of damaging the cables in the Gulf of Finland on 25 December, is docked in a harbour near the city of Porvoo. Eight crew members of the Eagle S have been detained as suspects. The tanker is undergoing an inspection by the Traficom Transport and Communications Agency which is focusing on its technical condition and compliance with all necessary requirements. Support UP or become our patron! Gov. Kim Reynolds announced in a news release that 11 school districts will receive grant funding through the Teacher & Paraeducator Apprenticeship Program. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Eleven school districts across Iowa have received funding support from the state to train future teachers in the classroom and strengthen the educator pipeline, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday. According to a news release from Iowa Workforce Development, Reynolds announced that the second round of grants in the Teacher & Paraeducator Registered Apprenticeship, or TPRA, Program will provide a total of $3.4 million to chosen K-12 school districts to support the development of 68 new teacher apprentices and 26 new paraeducator apprentices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Districts chosen for the grant showed their need for more teachers through their job openings, the release stated. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Schools receiving TPRA grant funding: Brooklyn-Guernsey-Malcom Community School District Davis County Community School District Dubuque Community School District Hamburg Community School District Mason City Community School District Mediapolis Community School District New Hampton Community School District Panorama Community School District South Central Calhoun Community School District Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District Waterloo Community School District Governor Reynolds commitment to expanding the teacher & paraeducator pipeline in Iowa through Registered Apprenticeships is not only innovative but ensures schools can contribute to the development of their teachers throughout their entire education, said Beth Townsend, executive director of Iowa Workforce Development, in the release. Todays awards are a direct response to schools who wanted to utilize this successful training model in growing a skilled and experienced teacher workforce for their community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TPRA program is built for both high school students and adult paraeducators, according to the programs website. Through working in the classroom and participating in other education and professional development offered by their district, students can earn a paraeducator certificate and their associates degree and paraeducators can earn a bachelors degree. Many of the school districts are planning to use or develop partnerships with local colleges and universities to provide mentoring, training, additional education and more, according to Iowa Workforce Development. After its launch in 2022, the first round of TPRA program grants have aided 124 school districts in working with more than 1,000 apprentices, the release stated. The second round of funding, which was announced by Reynolds as TPRA 2.0 in October, builds off that success with a more streamlined structure to make the process easier on districts, according to the release. Registered Apprenticeships are a perfect method to train the teachers of tomorrow with extensive, in-the-classroom experience leading to graduates who are better prepared to succeed in their career from day one, Reynolds said in the release. Weve received such a positive response to the first round of awards, I couldnt be more excited to expand the Teacher & Paraeducator program to more school districts. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Special counsel Jack Smiths final report into the criminal cases against President-elect Donald Trump has been blocked from release after the presidents lawyers launched a last-ditch effort to prevent its publication. In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland sent Monday, Trumps lawyers said they were allowed to review Smiths report in the criminal case in which Trump was charged with conspiring to keep classified documents after he left office. They threatened legal action if it is released, noting Smiths findings include strongly worded allegations that Trump engaged in an unprecedented criminal effort and describe him as the head of the criminal conspiracies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps lawyers argued Smiths report amounts to little more than a politically-motivated attack and that making public his findings in the classified documents case or an election interference case Smith also pursue would illegally interfere with Trumps presidential transition. To that end, they said Smiths findings contain baseless attacks on other anticipated members of President Trumps incoming administration, which are an obvious effort to interfere with upcoming confirmation hearings. With the cases against Trump dismissed, the final report constitutes Smiths last chance to lay out the details of what he found during his investigation.Special counsels have to submit reports on their findings, according to Justice Department rules, and attorneys general from both parties have released them to the public in recent yearsRobert Muellers report that alleged ties between Trumps 2016 campaign and Russia being a notable example. The release of any confidential report prepared by this out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor would be nothing more than a lawless political stunt, designed to politically harm President Trump, Trumps lawyers wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Trumps former co-defendants in the Florida classified documents case launched their own effort Monday to block the release of Smiths report. Lawyers acting for Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveiratwo Trump employees who were accused of assisting his alleged obstruction of the federal investigation into classified documents he kept at his private Mar-a-Lago estateasked U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to bar Smith from issuing his report until the case has reached a final judgment and appellate proceedings are concluded. Cannon on Tuesday ruled on their behalf and ordered Smith not to release the report until the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals has time to review the co-defendants emergency motion. Cannon, a Trump appointee, ruled Smiths appointment was unconstitutional and dismissed the charges in July 2024. Nauta and de Oliveiras lawyers argued releasing the report would violate their clients rights, as prosecutors launched an appeal to reinstate charges against them. Smiths team withdrew from the appeal and referred the case to federal prosecutors in Florida last month. Donald Trump is stacking his second administration with a slate of Silicon Valley insiders. The president-elect has tapped at least a dozen tech leaders for government roles. These are the businessmen, tech gurus, and venture capitalists who will help Trump govern. President-elect Donald Trump is stacking his second administration with a cadre of Silicon Valley insiders. In recent months, Trump has tapped a number of tech executives for a wide range of official government roles while elevating several other industry vets to less formal advisory positions. Those joining the Trump administration in any official capacity will be subject to federal conflict of interest laws that prohibit government employees from having a hand in anything that could directly affect their financial interests, said Richard Painter, a law professor at the University of Minnesota and former Chief White House Ethics lawyer under George W. Bush. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Private sector employees who join the government are generally required to sell any related financial holdings or recuse themselves from specific matters, Painter told Business Insider. Exceptions exist, however, including at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a cost-cutting committee that will exist outside of government. Its leaders, Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, won't be government employees, nor will they have to divest themselves of their businesses. Here are some of the tech personalities Trump has tasked with helping run the federal government: Elon Musk The world's richest man, Elon Musk, leads various tech companies with government contracts. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Trump's pick for: Co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Elon Musk is the world's richest person and the founder of several major companies, including SpaceX, Tesla, Neuralink, and xAI. He also bought X, formerly known as Twitter, in 2022 and currently serves as its CTO. Musk, who spent at least $277 million supporting Trump and the Republican Party during the 2024 cycle, has said his super PAC will remain active in the midterms. In the months since the election, Musk has remained close to Trump's side and waded into political issues beyond his capacity as the DOGE co-head, like congressional budget negotiations. Vivek Ramaswamy Ramaswamy founded an anti-woke investment firm. AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File Trump's pick for: Co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Vivek Ramaswamy founded the pharmaceutical company Roivant Sciences and Strive Asset Management, an investment fund supported by conservative tech billionaire Peter Thiel. Though he ran for the Republican presidential nomination, Ramaswamy will join Musk in overseeing DOGE. Ramaswamy has said that he expects "certain agencies to be deleted outright." Musk has said he wants to slash some $2 trillion from the federal budget, and the DOGE co-heads outlined their cost-cutting agenda in a lengthy opinion piece. Federal outlays hit $6.75 trillion in 2024, so the proposed cuts could run up against mandatory spending for entitlement programs such as Medicare and Social Security. Ramaswamy and Musk have criticized overregulation and the size of the federal workforce in particular. JD Vance Vance worked at VC firms before launching his own in 2019. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images Trump's pick for: Vice President Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Before rising in Republican politics, JD Vance worked in Silicon Valley, including at Peter Thiel's venture capital firm, Mithril Capital. He eventually started his own VC firm in 2019, Narya Capital, whose early backers included Thiel and venture capitalist Marc Andreessen. According to his vice president and senate disclosure forms, Vance still has a stake in Narya Capital Fund I, Narya Capital Fund II, and Rise of the Rest Seed Fund. David Sacks David Sacks is a member of the PayPal Mafia. ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's pick for: White House AI and crypto czar Background: The venture capitalist and former PayPal COO founded the enterprise social networking platform Yammer, acquired by Microsoft for $1.2 billion in 2012. He now works at the VC firm Craft, which he co-founded in 2017. Sacks was also an angel investor in companies such as SpaceX, Uber, and Palantir. As a member of the "PayPal Mafia," Sacks has worked with other tech titans like Musk and Thiel. The "All-In" podcaster will develop a framework for digital currency as the chair of Trump's Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets. Scott Kupor Scott Kupor has spent years working for Andreessen Horowitz. Andreessen Horowitz Trump's pick for: Director of the Office of Personnel Management Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Scott Kupor is a partner at the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and was one of the company's first employees. Kupor has said he looks for "egomaniacal" founders. He managed a16z's growth from $300 million in assets under management to more than $40 billion, according to the firm's website. Before joining a16z, Kupor worked in various capacities at Hewlett-Packard, the software company Opsware, and in M&A at Credit Suisse First Boston and Lehman Brothers, according to a16z's website. Sriram Krishnan Sriram Krishnan was a general partner at VC powerhouse Andreessen Horowitz. YouTube Trump's pick for: Senior policy advisor for artificial intelligence at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Background: Most recently, Sriram Krishnan was a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Before joining a16z, he ran product and engineering groups at X, Meta, and Snap, according to a16z's website. The firm said he began his career at Microsoft as a founding member of Windows Azure. Krishnan was a16z's main contact with Twitter after Musk bought it in 2022, and he interviewed the Tesla CEO on a pandemic-era audio show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump wrote on X that Krishnan would work closely with David Sacks to focus on "ensuring continued American leadership" in AI and help coordinate government policy about the technology. Ken Howery Ken Howery (left) co-founded PayPal. Jemal Countess/Getty Images Trump's pick for: US ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark Background: A cofounder of PayPal and Founders Fund, Ken Howery was the US ambassador to Sweden under the first Trump administration. In announcing Howery's appointment, Trump wrote on Truth Social that 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 Trump proposed the same idea in 2019 which the island and Denmark rejected. Greenland is an autonomous dependent territory of Denmark, a member of NATO, and a US ally. Jacob Helberg Jacob Helberg is a senior advisor to Palantir's CEO. Christian Oth Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's pick for: Undersecretary for economic growth, energy, and the environment at the US State Department Background: Jacob Helberg is a senior advisor to Palantir CEO Alex Karp. Palantir, a data mining company co-founded by Thiel, has several government contracts and counts the US federal government as one of its biggest clients. Helberg is a member of the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission. He has propelled the effort to ban TikTok in the US and is also the author of "The Wires of War: Technology and the Global Struggle for Power." Michael Kratsios The managing director at a tech startup, Kratsios also served as Trump's Chief Technology Officer. Web Summit/YouTube Trump's pick for: Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Background: Michael Kratsios is a managing director at Scale AI. He served as chief technology officer during Trump's first administration and has been working on tech policy for the transition, according to Politico. Trump wrote on X that Kratsios will work closely with Sacks and also serve as an assistant to the president for science and technology. He also said that Kratsios had received a Distinguished Public Service Medal from the Defense Department. Emil Michael Emil Michael has invested in or advised multiple startups. Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers/YouTube Trump's pick for: Undersecretary of Defense for research and engineering Background: Emil Michael was the chief business officer at Uber and COO of Klout, a now-defunct social media company that ranked users' online social influence. Previously he served as special assistant to the Secretary of Defense. He built several companies during his career, the first being Tellme Networks in 1999, according to his website. Microsoft acquired Tellme Networks in 2007. Michael has invested in or advised various companies, including Stripe. While at Uber, Michael led the company's work in China and built its Uber for Business unit, according to his bio. Lynne Parker Lynne Parker previously served as Trump's deputy Chief Technology Officer. Keegan Barber/The White House via Associated Press Trump's pick for: Executive director of the Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology Background: Parker previously served as Trump's deputy Chief Technology Officer and was the founding director of the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Office. She has served as associate vice chancellor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and as director of the AI Tennessee Initiative, according to the university's website. UT credited her with leading development of several "landmark" national AI polices, including some concerning federal use of the technology. Paul Atkins Trump tapped Paul Atkins to lead the SEC. AP Photo/ Evan Vucci, File Trump's pick for: Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission Background: Paul Atkins, a vocal crypto supporter, is the founder and CEO of risk management consultancy Patomak Global Partners and has been the co-chair of the Digital Chamber's Token Alliance, an industry group, since 2017. He served as an SEC commissioner under President George W. Bush. Trump wrote on Truth Social that Atkins "recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before." If confirmed, Atkins will replace the current chair of SEC, Gary Gensler, who has drawn the ire of much of the crypto industry over his regulatory efforts. Jared Isaacman Jared Isaacman has commanded space missions for Musk's company SpaceX. Eugene Gologursky/Getty Trump's pick for: Administrator of NASA Background: The billionaire SpaceX astronaut founded Shift4 Payments, a payment processing firm. His nomination comes only months after he completed the first commercial spacewalk. Isaacman, who dropped out of high school and started two companies, has commanded several space missions for Musk's SpaceX. He flew twice to space in SpaceX's Crew Dragon for flights he commissioned, funded, and commanded, as BI previously reported. Jim O'Neill Jim O'Neill is the former CEO of the Thiel Foundation. Drew Angerer/Getty Images Trump's pick for: Deputy Secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services Background: Jim O'Neill is a Silicon Valley investor who served as acting CEO of the Thiel Foundation, helping to found the organization's fellowship. In 2012, he worked with Thiel to launch Mithril Capital Management, the VC fund that eventually hired Vance, and worked there until 2019. He was briefly the CEO of the health organization SENS Research Foundation and sits on the board of ADvantage Therapeutics, which focuses on therapies for neurodegenerative conditions. Gail Slater Gail Slater has worked for various tech companies. MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images Trump's pick for: Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division at the Department of Justice Background: A known tech advisor, Slater has worked for various tech companies, including as a lawyer at the Internet Association, a defunct lobbying group representing companies including Google, Facebook, and Amazon. She also worked at the streaming platform Roku. Read the original article on Business Insider CNN founder Ted Turner is recovering after he was recently hospitalized for pneumonia. A spokesperson for Turner told CNN that the media mogul is doing well in rehab. While he was diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia in 2018 and despite the health challenges it presents, Ted continues to remain resilient and engaged in his professional and personal endeavors, Phillip Evans said in a statement to CNN. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Turner first revealed his Lewy Body dementia diagnosis in 2018. The Lewy Body Dementia Association says an estimated 1.4 million Americans are affected by the disease, which is the second most common form of degenerative dementia. TRENDING STORIES Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the years, Turners family has not revealed much about his diseases progression, but in a 2022 interview, his daughter, Laura Turner Seydel said her father was brave to share his diagnosis. Ted is known as Captain Courageous and hes battling through, she said. Turners family says he remains active with his nonprofit work as a chairman for Turner Foundation and Nuclear Threat Initiative. Seydel has also said that Turner enjoys spending his time on his ranch in Montana. Turner celebrated his 86th birthday back in November. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] FILE - Dominique Wilkins, all time leading scorer at the University of Georgia, holds his Atlanta Hawks jersey flanked by coach Kevin Loughery, right, and owner Ted Turner on Sept. 4, 1982, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Joe Holloway, File) In this Oct. 28, 1995, file photo, Atlanta Braves owner Ted Turner, left, talks with Braves pitcher Tom Glavine as he holds the series MVP trophy after the Braves won the World Series in Atlanta. 24 Oct 1999: Ted Turner and Jimmy Carter fans of the Atlanta Braves watch from the stands during the World Series game two against the New York Yankees at the Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia. The Yankees defeated the Braves 7-2. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Squire /Allsport A pricetag of $5-7 million will transform the 1.4 mile stretch of Ted Turner Drive into a gateway to downtown that showcases inviting urban space with resilience values. CONTRIBUTED Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ted Turner and Bill Bartholomay, smile after receiving their 1992 National League Championship rings. (Third man on right unidentified.) (Frank Niemeir / AJC staff) ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 09: Ted Turner and Jane Fonda attend 80th Birthday at The Whitley on December 9, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. Academy-Award Winning Actress Jane Fonda and CNN's Founder Ted Turner attend celebration of Jane Fonda's 80th birthday at The Whitley in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for GAACP) Ted Turner poses for a photo with former Vice President Al Gore during Turner's 80th birthday party at the St. Regis Atlanta hotel on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, in Atlanta. Turner, who recently announced he has Lewy body dementia, turns 80 on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OCTOBER 28, 1995 ATLANTA WORLD SERIES GAME 6 10/28/95: Standing for the national anthem are (L-R), Jane Fonda, Ted Turner, actor Bill Murray ,and former president Jimmy Carter. (photo/Jonathan Newton) OCTOBER 28, 1995 ATLANTA Atlanta Braves owner Ted Turner parades around the infield with the World Series Trophy, Saturday, October 28, 1995. (photo/Frank Niemeir) Ted Turner embraces his ex-wife Jane Fonda during his 80th birthday party at the St. Regis Atlanta hotel on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. Fonda said of her former husband: Ted Turner talks with CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer during Turner's 80th birthday party at the St. Regis Atlanta hotel on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. Turner was the founder of CNN, the first 24-hour news network. (Photo: BRANDEN CAMP/AJC) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Braves owner Ted Turner and his then-wife Jane Fonda enjoyed the day. Braves owner Ted Turner (right) and his then-wife Jane Fonda ride with the World Series trophy. Braves owner Ted Turner makes the symbolic tomahawk chop from a fire engine as the Braves victory parade passes the state Capitol. Ted Turner, owner of the Atlanta Braves and Bobby Cox, former manager of the Braves at press conference announcing the firing of Cox. October 8, 1981. (Bud Skinner / AJC staff) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Atlanta Braves president Stan Kasten, general manager John Schuerholz, owner Ted Turner and manager Bobby Cox hold the 1995 World Series trophy. (AJC photo/David Tulis) Former Atlanta Brave Dale Murphy, Paul Snyder, former amateur scouting director for the Atlanta Braves , Bobby Cox, former Braves manager, Ted Turner, former Braves owner, Pete Van Wieren, former Braves announcer, and Bill Bartholomay, Braves chairman emeritus, stand and clap as Chipper Jones waves to the crowd during the ceremony to retire his number 10 at Turner Field on Friday, June 28, 2013. JOHNNY CRAWFORD / JCRAWFORD@AJC.COM Ted Turner 405557 03: Ted Turner, Vice Chairman of AOL Time Warner, receives an honorary degree from Morehouse College during 2002 commencement ceremonies May 19, 2002 in Atlanta. About 500 men received their undergraduate degrees from the predominately black school. (Photo by Erik S. Lesser/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 24: Ted Turner waves a rally towel during Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs between the Atlanta Hawks and the Orlando Magic at Philips Arena on April 24, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Ted Turner at launch of CNN. 28 Aug 2001: Founder of the Goodwill Games Ted Turner speaks during the Opening Gala at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre ahead of the Goodwill Games in Brisbane, Australia. DIGITAL IMAGE. Mandatory Credit: Darren England/ALLSPORT ATLANTA - JULY 26: At Turner Field, a plaque honors the Atlanta Braves owner, Ted Turner, on July 26, 2004 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ATLANTA - SEPTEMBER 30: Ted Turner does the tomahawk chop during Game 1 of the National League Division Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Atlanta Braves on September 30, 2003 at Turner Field in Atlanta, Georgia. The Cubs defeated the Braves 4-2. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) HOLLYWOOD - APRIL 7: Television tycoon Ted Turner's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is shown April 7, 2004 in Hollywood, California. Turner received the 2,251st today. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Getty Images) 18 Jul 1998: Ted Turner speaks during the opening ceremonies of the 1998 Goodwill Games at Mitchell Field in Long Island, New York. Mandatory Credit: Andy Lyons /Allsport 27 Jul 1994: Ted Turner (left) and his wife Jane Fonda watch the competition during the Goodwill Games in St. Petersburg, Russia. Mandatory Credit: Clive Brunskill /Allsport Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNSPECIFIED - NOVEMBER 12: In this screengrab, Ted Turner speaks during the GCAPP EmPOWER Party & 25th Anniversary Virtual Event on November 12, 2020 in UNSPECIFIED, United States. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images for GCAPP) HOLLYWOOD - APRIL 7: Media magnate Ted Turner (C) and family attend the ceremony honoring him with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame April 7, 2004 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Getty Images) Ted Turner at launch of CNN. Ted Turner named Time Magazine's Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ATLANTA, GA - JULY 22: (L-R) Recording artist Usher Raymond and Ted Turner attend Usher's New Look Foundation - World Leadership Conference & Awards 2011 - Day 3 at Cobb Energy Center on July 22, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Moses Robinson/Getty Images for Usher's New Look Foundation) 10 Dec 1996: Ted Turner and Jane Fonda look on during a game between the Denver Nuggets and the Atlanta Hawks at the Omni in Atlanta, Georgia. The Hawks won the game, 89-88. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Stockman /Allsport 405557 03: Ted Turner, Vice Chairman of AOL Time Warner, receives an honorary degree from Morehouse College during 2002 commencement ceremonies May 19, 2002 in Atlanta. About 500 men received their undergraduate degrees from the predominately black school. (Photo by Erik S. Lesser/Getty Images) ATLANTA, GA - MAY 12: CNN founder Ted Turner (L) meets with former President Jimmy Carter and his ex-wife Jane Fonda at UNICEF Stars for Little Stars Gala Benefit on May 12, 2003 in Atlanta, Georgia. The event benefits UNICEF's Audrey Hepburn Memorial Fund. (Photo by Erik S. Lesser/Getty Images) 23 Jul 1994: Ted Turner (right) applauds at the opening ceremonies for the Goodwill Games in St. Petersburg, Russia. Mandatory Credit: Clive Brunskill /Allsport 24 JUL 1990: MEDIA MAGNATE TED TURNER AND ACTRESS JANE FONDA. Mandatory Credit: Tony Duffy/ALLSPORT TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. (WFLA) A teen is celebrating a year of blessings after retrieving the cross during the 119th annual Epiphany celebration in Tarpon Springs Monday. For Greek Orthodox Christians, Epiphany is a celebration of Christs baptism. TIMELINE: Coldest air of the season moves into the Tampa Bay area Celebrations started over the weekend with events such as the Epiphany Ball and Blessing of the fleet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The culmination of the event was on Monday with the cross dive. Thousands gathered around Spring Bayou as more than 65 young men dove into the water hoping to emerge with the wooden cross tossed by the archbishop from the dock. Services began at Saint Nicholas Cathedral. The boys then ran from the church to Spring Bayou. Luc Boillot, 17 (WFLA) The lucky one to retrieve the cross during this years dive was 17-year old Lucas Boillot from Plantation. He will now have receives a year of immense blessings, per the ceremonys legend. It felt like a dream I was dreaming of it last night, Lucas Boillot said. It didnt really feel real. I was entirely blessed to be in that moment at that right time. It was incredible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My son, we call him Lucky Luc so today was his day, said his mother Kathy Boillot. Lucas is now the third person in his family to retrieve the cross. Im ecstatic. My father was the priest here for 30 years at this cathedral so Im very blessed and feel very blessed, Kathy Boillot 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 WFLA. DENVER (KDVR) Aurora police said a 16-year-old was killed during a reported home invasion and shooting Tuesday morning. At about 6:15 a.m., Aurora police were called to an apartment complex in the 10600 block of East Jewell Avenue in the Village East neighborhood. When they arrived at the apartment, officers said they found a victim, a 16-year-old girl with an apparent gunshot wound. Officers performed life-saving actions until medical responders arrived and took the girl to a local hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man in critical condition after overnight shooting in Aurora The teen was pronounced dead at the hospital, Aurora police said. She was identified by the Arapahoe County Coroners Office on Wednesday as Audrina Fedelina Arrington. During a Tuesday morning press conference, Cpt. Marc Paolino with the Aurora Police Department Investigations Bureau said preliminary information indicates two males made their way into the apartment where multiple people were inside. A physical struggle ensued and multiple shots were fired, that is when Arrington was hit. When I looked out my bedroom window, I saw two people running from the suspected house that this occurred at. They took off running and I kept watching. Another male exited the house saying they shot his baby. He yelled that twice, They shot my baby. They shot my baby,' resident Christopher Espinoza told FOX31s Vicente Arenas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, police said they do not have suspect information and the investigation is ongoing. Detectives are working to determine the motivation and if the suspects had any connection to the victims. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Paolini said the department has no reason to believe this incident is related to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. However, detectives are still investigating. Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information is asked to call the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. Tipsters can remain anonymous and still be eligible for a $2,000 reward. 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. A teen knifed to death outside an East Harlem restaurant was remembered Monday as a helpful neighbor and the last person they could imagine getting into a senseless street fight. Carlos Rivas, 17, was much more likely to help a resident carry groceries up the stairs of the Bronx building where he lived with his family than he was to get into a curbside clash with a total stranger. He was a very nice kid, said Rivas crying neighbor, Anita Birmingham, 65. Every time I saw him he was very respectful. He would help everybody. Its crazy. He was very respectful. He was not one of those kids you saw out in the street getting into difficulty for nothing. He was very family-oriented. I cant believe it. I would never thought [it would be] him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cops said Rivas and a 22-year-old friend got into a fight on Friday with an older man at an East Harlem Korean restaurant. The caught-on-camera clash shows the man stabbing Rivas outside the storefront eatery after a scuffle that apparently started as they entered around 6:15 p.m. Cops arrested Saul Sanchez, 62, and charged him with murder, assault and weapons possession. He was arraigned in Manhattan Criminal Court Sunday and ordered held without bail. It was unclear what set off the fight. Surveillance video shows Rivas friend bumping into the suspect when the three entered the restaurant. Moments later, Rivas and his friend are wrestling with the man as they exit the eatery. The older man grabs Rivas by the collar and stabs him in the chest and stomach before both fall to the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the struggle continues, Rivas friend grabs a chair left outside the K-Street Food restaurant, and strikes the stabber over the head with it before jumping on the stabbers back, the video shows. The stabber ran off when Rivas collapsed. Cops said Sanchez initially fled the scene before he returned and was arrested. Sanchez claimed he pulled his knife after he was hit on the sidewalk with a chair, according to police. But the video shows that Sanchez was hit with the chair after the stabbing and that Rivas friend used the chair to try to defend Rivas from the attack. The video of the incident shows two young men fighting with a 62-year-old man, Sanchez lawyer, Kenneth Gilbert, told the Daily News Monday. I have spoken to several of his friends and neighbors who say very dear things about him. Mr. Sanchez is very remorseful about what has happened. Gilbert said Sanchez went home to wash the blood off his face and to bring his dog home, although no dog appears in any of the videos. He returned 15 minutes later, according to prosecutors. Gilbert said Sanchez suffered a cut to his head during the fight. He appeared in court with a bandage wrapped around his head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medics took Rivas to Harlem Hospital but he couldnt be saved, cops said. The friend, who was stabbed in the left arm, was also taken to an area hospital. Sanchez had no prior criminal record. Gilbert said Sanchez, whose mother is suffering from dementia, was the sole breadwinner, and has been happily married for years. Friends and neighbors said they had a hard time connecting Rivas to the clash. Im heartbroken, said a neighbor named Caprice, 35. Hes never in the way of anybody. Hes never into trouble. Hes very quiet. Im completely shocked and heartbroken. We lost a good young man in the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another neighbor, Joanna Sosa, 36, said his daughter and Rivas were close friends. Sosa was taping laminated pictures of Rivas to a cardboard poster board that she left in the lobby so friends and neighbors could scribble personal tributes to the teen. That way his mom can have this as something to understand and see how much he really was loved and cared for, Sosa said. He was a kind soul. If anybody needed help with groceries, older people, even me he would help me out. Sosa said she was struggling to understand the stabbing. No matter what the situation is, lets say if they bumped into you or its a tight space, you have to be more conscious of the fact that you cant be walking around with so much anger and so much hatred so you get to that point of killing a child, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maybe you didnt have the intention of killing him but at the end of the day you have to understand that youre using a weapon against somebody and this child had no weapons on him. The horrific stabbing was hauntingly similar to the murder of on-duty postal worker Ray Hodges, who was knifed to death in a Harlem deli a day earlier during an argument over his spot on a sandwich line, cops said. Hodges, a USPS mail carrier who worked out of the Morningside post office in Harlem, was stabbed by 28-year-old Jaia Cruz at Joes Grocery on Lenox Ave. near W. 118th St. at about 2:30 p.m. Thursday, police said. Investigators believe a 19-year-old was attacked and held in a basement at a home in Akron, according to Cleveland CBS-affiliate WOIO. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The teenager was lured to a home by people whom she considered to be her friends, Capt. Michael Miller with Akron police told WOIO. She told investigators three people held her captive and violently attacked her, CBS-affiliate WOIO reported. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is very humiliating, very traumatizing we imagine for this young woman this victim. Very disappointing too that the people involved would commit this crime, Miller told WOIO. Police told WEWS the attackers recorded the assault and posted it online. The girl was able to run away after she was attacked and her clothes ripped off, according to WEWS. A 911 caller noticed the girl walking down the street naked and stopped to help, according to WEWS. WOIO reports investigators arrested 19-year-old Kendall Worthy but others involved could face charges. We will continue to follow this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A Neo Nazi group called the Goyim Defense League yelled antisemitic slogans at tourists in downtown Nashville during a July march by the group. (Photo: John Partipilo) With support from Metro Nashvilles mayor, two Republican lawmakers are sponsoring a measure designed to handcuff hate groups such as those that targeted a synagogue and marched in Nashville last year. Notably, it prohibits the transport of people in box trucks, such as the rental vehicles used to carry neo-Nazi groups to Nashville locations, and gives police more latitude to charge people with violating the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But one First Amendment expert said the bill is on constitutional thin ice even though California adopted a similar law. Its important to remember that hate speech is completely protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Its not a close call. Hateful things are protected under the First Amendment no matter how ugly or disturbing or rude they happen to be, said Ken Paulson, director of the Free Speech Center at MTSU in Murfreesboro. Allowing government to define hate speech would be extraordinarily dangerous, Paulson added, because each administration could find different things to be hateful. Those committing hate crimes need to be held accountable, says Tennessee House Majority Leader Rep. William Lamberth of a proposed bill. (Photo: John Partipilo) House Majority Leader William Lamberth sponsored a resolution in 2024 condemning neo-Nazis that marched through downtown Nashville carrying swastika flags and wearing masks. With the 2025 legislative session approaching on Jan. 14, Lamberth, a Portland Republican, and Sen. Mark Pody of Lebanon are sponsoring House Bill 55, which revamps state laws dealing with littering and trespassing, police procedures and obstruction of justice, and road safety to tamp down hate speech and intimidation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Groups handed out anti-Jewish literature to members of a Nashville synagogue and held signs at overpasses promoting hateful messages. These tactics are deliberate efforts to terrify people and create profound distress, Lamberth said in a statement. He added that people who commit hate crimes, often anonymously, should be held accountable. Pody, who represents part of Davidson County, said the bill represents the states unwavering commitment to protecting communities from antisemitism, intimidation and extremism. Dubbed the Protecting Everyone Against Crime and Extremism Act (PEACE) Act, the bill sets up new limitations for littering and trespassing to keep hate groups from flooding neighborhoods and parking lots with fliers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lamberth said Monday the bill is carefully crafted to avoid problems with broad interpretation or the potential for police to crack down on rallies and protests that dont involve hate speech. The Metro Nashville Council passed an ordinance last year targeting hate groups after marches took place in Nashville, and Mayor Freddie OConnell said in a statement he appreciates the effort to stop such intimidation and give law enforcement more tools to handle these situations. It sends the message that hateful acts will never be tolerated here, OConnell said. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reported 122 incidents in 2023 motivated by bias involving race, religion, sexuality and disability, down slightly from 129 in 2022 and 135 in 2021. Some 35% to 41% of those were anti-Black or African American, the report shows. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not a close call. Hateful things are protected under the First Amendment no matter how ugly or disturbing or rude they happen to be. Ken Paulson, director, Free Speech Center at Middle Tennessee State University State Rep. John Ray Clemmons of Nashville said Monday he appreciates the spirit of the legislation because he feels too many people, including his family, have been victims of the type of hate speech the bill is trying to prevent. Clemmons, though, indicated the measure might need changes. I hope to work with the sponsors to ensure that the legislation, in its final form, is constitutionally sound and achieves its stated, intended purpose, said Clemmons, chairman of the House Democratic Caucus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The measure makes it a Class A misdemeanor to pass out literature considered a form of hate speech or intimidate someone to prevent them from exercising constitutional rights such as religious freedom or the ability to vote. The bill also gives law enforcement officers more leeway for enforcement. It creates a buffer zone of 25 feet between officers and people who are ordered to stop and makes it a Class B misdemeanor to violate that space. The bill also requires a person to give their name to an officer who asks them to identify themselves and makes it a Class C misdemeanor to refuse or to give a fake name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using a box truck to transport people would be made a Class B misdemeanor under the bill. At least one group used a rental truck to bring its members into town to rally. Likewise, the bill would make it illegal to put a sign, signal or marking on a bridge, overpass or tunnel. In addition, police could use probable cause to charge someone with violating the law regardless of whether they saw the person commit the act. Paulson said most controversies have two points of view, and each side believes the other is hateful. Governments can ban all littering and banners hanging from overpasses, but they cant prohibit only those pieces of literature and banners they regard as hateful, Paulson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you ban Nazi pamphlets, you also have to ban pizza joints passing out coupons in public. You cannot discriminate on the basis of ideas, he said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Chads and Senegals leaders have denounced comments made by French president Emmanuel Macron on Monday (6 January), in which he accused some African countries of failing to thank France for its assistance in combating terrorism, as completely erroneous and for showing lack of respect towards Africans. In his speech made to French diplomatic corps at an annual conference on foreign policy for 2025, Macron also focused on the withdrawal of French troops from several African countries, accusing some African leaders of ingratitude and claiming that none of them would have a sovereign state if the French army had not deployed in this region. Calling French military intervention in the Sahel against terrorism since 2013 as justified, Macron also ironically added that I think that they forgot to thank us, but thats ok, it will come in time. But Chad and Senegal, both of which have demanded in recent months the withdrawal of French troops from their territories, immediately hit back at Macrons comments. In a statement issued on Monday, Chads foreign minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, slammed Macrons remarks as disrespectful and reflecting contemptuous attitude toward Africa. Koulamallah also pointed out that France has never acknowledged Chads sacrifices during the two World Wars when it was helping France to fight for its liberation. For over 60 years of French presence, Frances contribution has often been limited to its own strategic interests, with no lasting impact on the development of the Chadian people, he added. Meanwhile, Senegals prime minister, Ousmane Sonko, also denounced Macrons claims of ungratefulness among African leaders, saying that France has neither the capacity nor the legitimacy to assure Africas security or sovereignty. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Both city and state road crews are gearing up with salt and brine as a winter storm bears down on the Mid-South. In preparation, both parties say they are swamped with meetings as they prepare the wintery mix were set to get. However, they said theyre ready to serve when the time comes. Right now were still monitoring, were still watching our local weather partners as well as some you know national weather service, said Tennessee Department of Transportation employee Nicole Alexander. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexander said the state is ready for whatever ice or snow impacts the roads later this week. If we need to pre-treat, interstates are our priority, but in the Memphis area specifically, well make sure that the river bridges, the flyovers, you know, the elevated surfaces, have a good coating of our salt-brine mixture, Lawrence said. Winter storm likely; potentially snowy day Friday Lawrence told WREG the department has around 175 salt-brine trucks for the region that includes Memphis. However, that region will serve around 20 counties, so she urges patience as they service nearly 10,000 lane miles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have quite a bit of ground to cover so it takes us several hours, usually a day and a half to a couple of days to get that pre-treatment down, if we are covering the entire region. When asked about how TDOT will decide which counties receive priority, Lawrence said it will depend on which counties are facing the most severe weather. Its going to depend on the forecast, so this just past weather event that showed us some flurries, they were talking about the northern counties that connected to Kentucky, possibly having more ice than the southern counties, Lawrence said. With this one, it looks to be more region-wide so well make those determinations after we again have our partners with the weather service. State drivers said they are already prepared to work overtime as they are already putting brine on some roadways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to ensure your home is ready for freezing temperatures I carry an extra jacket, hoodie, and extra pair of boots, an extra hoodie uniform, and an extra pair of boots if the travelers are out there, said Highway Incident Operator Todd Stepp. I suggest the same thing: an extra hoodie if youre broke down on the side of the road. Having an extra hoodie would be a thing. The city of Memphis said right now, snowplows will only be deployed if two inches of snow is predicted. At this time, the city is said to have 15 snow and ice removal trucks along with six brine trucks. WREG has been told that despite their minimal equipment, they are prepared to face the elements: The City of Memphis has a new strategic snow and ice mitigation plan. Under the new plan, Division of Public Works crews will focus on specific routes when wintry weather affects our area, treating one lane in each direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TDOT reminds all drivers to watch out for those working the roads. Give those guys plenty of room, dont crowd the equipment and dont make them think they need to hurry up and get out of your way when we are out there trying to make the roads safe for you, Lawrence said. The city of Memphis is expected to release its plan for protecting residents from the elements later this 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 WREG.com. In one of his final acts in the Oval Office, President Joe Biden signed a new law Sunday to increase the amount of Social Security payments for about 2.8 million Americans, including those in Maryland. Known as the Social Security Fairness Act, the law repeals two provisions the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset that had previously limited Social Security benefits for employees receiving other pensions. These provisions cut benefits for public sector employees who received pensions not covered by Social Security payroll taxes and cut spousal/widow benefits for those who also received public pensions not covered by Social Security, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While intended to prevent employees from double dipping into retirement benefits, public sector union leaders have criticized the provisions for blocking employees who receive state or local pensions from getting Social Security checks. The bill Im signing today is about a simple proposition, Biden said Sunday upon signing the bill into law at the White House. Americans who have worked hard all their life to earn an honest living should be able to retire with economic security and dignity. Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat who voted for the bills passage, echoed the presidents rhetoric in a post on X/Twitter Monday night, claiming the law would help tens of thousands of Marylanders retire with dignity. Van Hollens office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on exactly how many people in Maryland would see benefits increase. State data shows that 19% of the roughly 2.7 million Marylanders who worked in 2023 were employed in the public sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Congressional Budget Office, recipients impacted by the Windfall Elimination Provision can expect their monthly benefits to increase by an average of $360 per month this year. Some spouses impacted by the Government Pension Offset will see an average monthly increase of $700, while surviving spouses with a widow or widower benefit will see an average monthly increase of $1,190, according to the same study. With the new law, benefits will also grow over time in accordance with Social Security cost-of-living adjustments. The changes will apply to all benefits from January 2024 onward, meaning some recipients will receive back-dated benefits. In a statement Monday, the Social Security Administration said it is still evaluating how to best implement the law, but noted that beneficiaries do not need to take any action beyond ensuring their mailing address and bank account information are up to date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Congress, the legislative effort was championed by outgoing Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown, an 18-year Democratic incumbent who lost to a Republican challenger in November and left office last Friday. Former Rep. Garret Graves, a 10-year Louisiana Republican who opted not to run for re-election, sponsored the original House bill in January 2023. Have a news tip? Contact Carson Swick at cswick@baltsun.com. Venezuelas exiled opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia has urged the Venezuelan military to recognize him as their commander-in-chief and put an end to the leadership of President Nicolas Maduro, whose government is resisting calls to give up power. Gonzalezs message, relayed in a video posted on social media Sunday, was his clearest appeal yet for the military to support his intention to take the presidency, which he insists he won in the disputed July election against incumbent Maduro. Maduro is due to be sworn in for his third term in power on January 10, but various countries including the United States have questioned the validity of the official election result and the US has said it recognizes Gonzalez as the rightful president-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With that date looming ever nearer, and the Venezuelan opposition calling for street protests, tensions appear to be coming to a head. On Monday, Maduros minister of internal affairs claimed Venezuela had arrested over 100 people from several countries including the US who he alleged were linked to acts of destabilization. Without detailing or offering evidence for his claims, Cabello suggested some of those in custody were linked to the Venezuelan opposition. In a separate move, Venezuela announced it would cut diplomatic ties with Paraguay, after its President Santiago Pena reiterated his recognition of Gonzalez. The Venezuelan opposition leader fled to Spain in September to seek asylum after Maduros government issued a warrant for his arrest. He is currently visiting the US and on Monday visited the White House. In his video message Sunday, Gonzalez said Maduro had distorted the principles of the military and called for the armed forces to recognize his authority from January 10. Our National Armed Forces is called to be a guarantor of sovereignty and respect for the popular will. It is our duty to act with honor, merit and conscience, Gonzalez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez rejected the call and said Monday that the Bolivarian National Armed Forces of Venezuela (FANB) would recognize Maduro as president. Mr. Gonzalez Urrutia does not understand that the FANB is a pristine institution, which owes itself to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and does not obey the designs or mandates of other imperial powers, Padrino said in a message on national television surrounded by the high military command. CNN has contacted the Venezuelan government for comment on Gonzalezs video message. On Sunday, the president of the National Assembly of Venezuela Jorge Rodriguez reiterated the Venezuelan governments position that Gonzalez would face arrest if he returns to the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrest warrant issued against the opposition leader in September accuses him of terrorism, conspiracy and other crimes related to the election charges Gonzalez denies. On January 2, the Scientific, Penal and Criminal Investigations Corps of Venezuela offered a reward of $100,000 for information leading to his arrest. CNN has contacted Gonzalezs team for comment. Support for Gonzalez, protests against Maduro Gonzalez is currently embarked on an international tour across the Americas, where he has been gathering support from allies in a show of defiance against Maduro. At the weekend, Gonzalez met with the presidents of Argentina and Uruguay in South America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, he met with US President Joe Biden in Washington, telling reporters he had a fruitful and long conversation with him at the White House. Both leaders agreed there is nothing more essential to the success of democracy than respecting the will of the people, as expressed through a transparent and accountable electoral process, and that Gonzalez Urrutias campaign victory should be honored through a peaceful transfer back to democratic rule, the White House said. Gonzalez said he has also been in contact with the team of President-elect Donald Trump but did not expand on their conversations. He declined to comment on remarks from Sen. Bernie Moreno suggesting that Trump planned to negotiate with Maduro. Gonzalez said on X he had met in Washington with Trumps pick for US National Security adviser, Mike Waltz, saying he assured us that the United States, and the world, will be alert about what happens in our country. Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, Venezuela, on December 14, 2024. - Leonardo Fernandez Viloria/Reuters Gonzalezs fellow opposition leader Maria Corina Machado who is also in hiding has called for supporters to demonstrate in the streets of Venezuela and other parts of the world on January 9, one day before Maduro is set to be sworn in to install a new government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Maduro and Gonzalez have previously pledged to inaugurate their own governments on January 10. In calling for the January 9 protests, Corina Machado said Maduro would not give up power on his own and that Venezuelans must make him leave. She asked those attending the demonstrations to wear clothing with the three colors of the Venezuelan flag: yellow, blue and red. This January 9th, EVERYONE in the streets, in Venezuela and around the world, she tweeted. Gonzalez echoed the call, writing on X: Everyone in the streets of our beloved country! Minister claims mercenaries arrested Gonzalezs appeal to the military came as Venezuelan authorities announced they had arrested at least 125 people among them foreigners from several countries including the United States who were accused of being mercenaries involved in destabilization actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Minister of Internal Affairs, Justice and Peace Diosdado Cabello made the claim at a press conference on Monday, during which he alleged some of those in custody had ties to opposition leaders. He also said weapons had been seized during the arrests. However, he did not present evidence for either of those claims and did not offer further detail on what those arrested are accused of. It is not clear when the arrests were made. Cabello said that in addition to Venezuelan citizens the 125 included people from Colombia, the US, Peru, Spain, Italy, Uruguay, Ukraine, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Lebanon, Albania, the Netherlands, Israel, Germany, Argentina, Guyana and Yemen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN has reached out to the Public Prosecutors Office and the Ministry of Justice for details and to determine if the Venezuelan government has informed the countries in question of the arrests. CNN has also reached out to the teams of Gonzalez and Corina Machado for comment. Last year, Venezuela claimed it had arrested six foreigners, including a US Navy SEAL, who it alleged were involved in a plot to kill the countrys President Nicolas Maduro. It is not clear whether these arrests are included in the 125 figure. In his briefing Monday, Cabello warned the Venezuelan government would have a forceful response against anyone involved in destabilizing actions against it. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com China's CATL, the largest EV battery cell manufacturer in the world, has been included in the Department of Defense's annual list of companies designated as suppliers to the Chinese military. This decision, pushed by incoming Trump cabinet member Marco Rubio, could have unforeseen ramifications as practically the entire auto industry sources at least some of their battery cells from CATL. A key partner for Elon Musks Tesla is threatening to sue the U.S. government over the Pentagons decision to blacklist it from federal contracts, blasting it a mistake. On Tuesday, the Department of Defense published the annual update of its Section 1260H list of Chinese dual-use industrial companiesessentially companies that the Pentagon believes are helping Chinas military to modernize. Included for the first time ever is the worlds largest supplier of EV battery cells, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ningde-based manufacturer, whose shares dipped on the news, refuted the decision that sees it join other previous blacklisted entities such as telecom network equipment provider Huawei and semiconductor foundry SMIC, as well as all new ones like social media and gaming giant Tencent. CATL has never engaged in any military-related business or activities, so this designation by the Department of Defense is a mistake, the company, worth the equivalent of $150 billion, said in a statement. By including CATL in the blacklist, not only is it barred from bidding for contracts with the U.S. armed forces, but partners like Tesla that source from it could be as well. Musk's EV manufacturer could not be reached by Fortune for comment. Trump cabinet pick Marco Rubio pushed for blacklisting The move is controversial, since CATL supplies at least some cells to practically every major carmaker that sells electric vehicles in China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Importantly, it is also a leader in the field of EV batteries featuring lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistrya popular and affordable alternative to the higher-performance nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells more common in wealthy industrial nations. The Pentagon did not explain its reasoning for including CATL, but it did say companies on the Section 1260H list could seek reconsideration of the decision by providing sufficient evidence to the government either for why the designation is no longer applicable or why it was never accurate to begin with. Notably, Trumps designated Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, urged the Biden administration in August to immediately add CATL to the list, citing the threat to national security. The DoD would not only safeguard Americas military infrastructure from exposure to the [Chinese army] PLA, it would also send a powerful signal to U.S. companies that are currently weighing partnerships with CATL, Rubio wrote in a letter cosigned by Michigan congressman John Moolenaar, chair of the House select committee on the CCP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fortune reached out to the Department of Defense for further information but has not yet received a comment. How CATL emerged from obscurity to become a global EV battery leader Founded only in 2011, CATL emerged out of nowhere to become the leading player in the global EV battery cell industry for the past seven years. This stemmed in large part from a decade-old campaign by the Chinese Communist Party to promote EVs as an answer to its airpocalypse, the scourge of urban air pollution vividly brought to life by the 2015 landmark documentary Under the Dome. Most Chinese megacities soon launched a crackdown on inner-city driving, including alternating days during which drivers could use their combustion-engine cars during days of intense smog. Restrictions were introduced that increased the cost of new license plates for gas-powered vehicles and greatly limited their allocation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exempted from this effort were new energy vehicles, which mainly included EVs and plug-in hybrids with sufficiently long electric-only ranges, leading to a boom for suppliers like CATL. It also didnt hurt that Beijing stipulated carmakers must source their cells from a list of approved domestic manufacturers if they wanted to operate locally. This protectionist requirement meant carmakers like Tesla with longstanding supply relationships with suppliers such as Panasonic had no choice but to enter into negotiations with CATL, Farasis, or Guoxuan. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) The mayor of Jackson announced testing is needed for the roof of Hotel O before the demolition process can begin. Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba said the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) requested asbestos testing for the roof of the building. This must occur before the city can move forward with their plans to demolish Hotel O. Tear that s down: Jackson councilmembers stand behind decision to demolish Hotel O Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once that sampling is done, and depending on what those samples reveal, then we can move to the next steps of its demolition. There is an abatement process if there is asbestos that exists. If not, then it makes it a little quicker for us to do it. But we are moving forward on this, Lumumba said. The eyesore off of I-55 has caused problems for several nearby businesses and residents. From drugs to other illegal activities, Jackson police said the hotel has become a hot spot for crime. The owner of the hotel, Noah Muthana, has been fighting the demolition, despite a judge issuing an arrest warrant for him earlier this year. 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 WJTV. TEXARKANA, Ark./Texas (KTAL/KMSS) With frigid temperatures arriving and the threat of winter weather on the horizon, homeless shelters in Texarkana are working to make sure everyone in the community has a warm place to stay. As a guest youre entitled to a sense of comfort and so our goal is to make those that are coming through our doors, and standing at our foot, comfortable, says Salvation Army of Texarkana Captain Juan Gomez. Randy Sams Outreach Center and The Salvation Army of Texarkana work to ensure the most vulnerable members of our community are taken care of year round, but when the weather turns they prepare to welcome even more guests than normal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were accepting anybody during this time of inclement weather who wants to get in from the elements and so theres no reason why anyone that wants shelter during the extreme cold cannot come stay at Randy Sams, says Jennifer Lacefield, Executive Director of Randy Sams. They are collaborating with The Salvation Army and the city to make sure no one is turned away, regardless of their situation. Sometimes they live in the tent cities, but we also have people who are coming in who have homes, they have their own dwelling space, but its not sufficient for the weather, says Captain Gomez. Tips to prepare for freezing weather Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Salvation Army has opened up space for mass sheltering on top of their normal program. What we do is we operate two different programs we have our original program where we house men, women and children and then we have a mass shelter program and so we do this so that we dont compromise one program over the other, says Captain Gomez. They are not only giving people in need a place to spend the night, but also a place to warm up during the day. Randy Sams is also making sure that crucial supplies get into the hands that need them most.. We do provide cold weather clothing items and hygiene items any time to anyone that needs it, even if they dont want to come and seek shelter here, says Lacefield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But with a greater need for resources comes a greater need for support. The reason that our success is within this community is because the community supports us and in times like today where the community is asking a little more of us, we lean on the community to be able to support us a little more, says Captain Gomez. While monetary donations are always welcome Randy Sams is especially in need of winter clothing and The Salvation Army is asking for volunteers. When the community is able to come in and help us by volunteering they give the most valuable thing they own, which is their time, says Captain Gomez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Monday afternoon, Randy Sams says they have around 95 clients and anticipate 15 to 25 more could come stay in the following days. The Salvation Army says they already had 14 people stay the night in their mass shelter area and could take in a total of around 25. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Texas city has been deemed the most affordable U.S. city in which to host a barbecue. British kitchen retailer Magnet Kitchens compiled a list of the 190 most populated cities in the EU, the U.S., Australia and Canada and ranked the best cities for hosting a summer barbecue based on affordability. The retailer used online database Numbeo to determine the average prices of food, wine and domestic beer, as well as taxi costs, average sunshine hours and noise curfew times. Where are the best places in the world to host a barbecue, and which days are ideal for such a gathering? Here's what the data shows. El Paso is best US city to host a BBQ, cheapest bottle of wine Justin Underwood is the pitmaster for JBU BBQ, which exclusively serves barbecue at catering and popup events. His specialty is Texas brisket, sprinkled with simple spices and cooked over post oak, grown primarily in the southern part of the state. El Paso is the most affordable U.S. city in which to host a barbecue, according to Magnet Kitchen's analysis. The average cost of food for such an event is $55.72. It also has the cheapest average price in the country for a bottle of wine, at $6.94. The West Texas city also has a reasonable average price for beer, at $2.16 per bottle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's how Texas cities lined up with others in the U.S. (prices converted from sterling pound to USD as of Jan. 6, 2025): El Paso Award winning beef brisket is prepared with a slice of cornbread and a side of green Chile Mac and cheese at barbecue restaurant Hallelujah BBQ at 130-A N. Cotton. Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $55.72 Average price of a bottle of wine: $6.94 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.16 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $1.75 Fort Worth Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $51.12 Average price of a bottle of wine: $16.26 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.33 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $2.14 San Antonio Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $51.91 Average price of a bottle of wine: $15.01 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.64 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $2.33 Austin Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $55.08 Average price of a bottle of wine: $17.51 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.59 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $2.14 Houston Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $57.37 Average price of a bottle of wine: $18.77 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.33 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $2.33 Dallas Noise curfew: 11 p.m. Total price for hosting food: $57.40 Average price of a bottle of wine: $18.77 Average price of a bottle of beer: $2.71 Cost of taxi fare per kilometer: $2.18 People are also reading: Three Austin barbecue joints earned Michelin stars. Franklin Barbecue awarded Bib Gourmand LIST: 10 least expensive US cities for a bottle of beer When it comes to beer, Texans don't mess around. Houston and Fort Worth were among the 10 U.S. cities with the least expensive beer. Both averaged $2.31 per bottle. Charlotte, North Carolina Sacramento, California Albuquerque, New Mexico Omaha, Nebraska Oakland, California Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Houston, Texas Nashville, Tennessee Jacksonville, Florida Fort Worth, Texas LIST: 10 most expensive US cities for a bottle of beer At $3.20, the most expensive bottle of beer in the country can be found in Atlanta, Georgia. Atlanta, Georgia New York, New York Chicago, Illinois Los Angeles, California Washington, D.C. San Francisco, California Seattle, Washington Aurora, Colorado Tampa, Florida Portland, Oregon LIST: 20 most affordable cities for a barbecue (global) Spain doesn't mess around when it comes to barbecue! The largest country in Southern Europe claimed 12 of the 20 most affordable cities for a barbecue in a worldwide ranking as well as each of the top five. The next top country, Germany, only had four cities in the top 20. Italy had three. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement London, Canada, was the only city outside of Spain, Germany, and Italy to make the top 20. Cordoba, Spain Zaragoza, Spain Murcia, Spain Alicante, Spain Malaga, Spain Taranto, Italy Gijon, Spain Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain Rome, Italy Corunna, Spain Valencia, Spain London, Canada L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain Sevilla, Spain Reggio Calabria, Italy Bilbao, Spain Wuppertal, Germany Bochum, Germany Bochum-Hordel, Germany Wandsbek, Germany LIST: 20 least affordable cities for a barbecue (global) On the other side of the spectrum, six U.S. cities were among the most expensive for a barbecue. But fear not Australia had the highest prices worldwide, claiming 12 of the top 20 most expensive cities worldwide. Despite having one city on the list of top 20 most affordable, Canada also had two cities on the inverse list. Launceston, Australia Hobart, Australia Adelaide, Australia New York, U.S. Sydney, Australia San Francisco, U.S. Washington, U.S. Brisbane, Australia Canberra, Australia Victoria, Canada Cairns, Australia Rockingham, Australia Laval, Canada Gold Coast, Australia Logan City, Australia Melbourne, Australia Oakland, U.S. Los Angeles, U.S. Portland, U.S. Wollongong, Australia This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: El Paso, Texas is best in US to host a barbecue, study says. See list A Texas man was arrested after allegedly stabbing his mother when she refused to give him her wallet, authorities said. Joseph Anthony Abreu, 35, is accused of breaking into a Houston home and demanding his mothers wallet on the afternoon of Saturday, Jan. 4, according to a news release shared by the Houston Police Department. When the mother refused, Abreu allegedly stabbed her, police said. Paramedics who responded to the home transported the 58-year-old woman whom police did not identify to a hospital, where she was reported to be in stable condition, according to the release. 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. Police said Abreu fled the scene before officers arrived but was captured and arrested the following day. He is charged with aggravated assault of a family member and burglary with intent to commit another felony. Its unclear if Abreu has entered a plea or retained an attorney to speak on his behalf. Read the original article on People A Texas man was sentenced to five years of probation Monday for his role in a failed attempt at stealing an ATM at a Roseville bank with chains and a stolen pickup truck. Leonard Dwayne Williams, 26, and four other Houston men were charged with aiding and abetting attempted felony theft and felony criminal damage to property in connection with the incident outside Great Southern Bank around 4 a.m. Dec. 12, 2023. Charges against one man were later dismissed for lack of probable cause. The theft was foiled by an alarm and an officer who pulled up to the scene, where the ATM had been pulled off its foundation and left. No money was stolen from the ATM, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams pleaded guilty to the attempted theft charge in September in exchange for a stayed one-year prison sentence and no more than a month in jail. Williams appeared at Mondays sentencing via Zoom from a Texas jail, where he is being held for an alleged robbery offense in that state. Ramsey County District Judge Kellie Charles noted how a camera caught Williams attaching chains to the Roseville ATM. This was a particularly brazen crime, Charles said. Williams has two prior theft convictions in Texas, she said, and has served time on two other similar thefts involving other co-defendants. Great Southern put its initial losses at nearly $75,000, and Charles ordered Williams to pay a fourth of the banks $25,000 insurance deductible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cases against the co-defendants remain pending, with all three wanted on warrants after they posted bond and then did not return to court for hearings, records show. They are Kenneth Deandtray Brown, Christopher Eugine Merchant and Larry Dean Gill, who are all 24 years of age. Arrested at nearby hotel According to the charges, a Roseville police officer went to the bank at 1875 County Road B2 after alarms on the ATM were triggered. The officer saw a white 2006 Ford F-250 pickup leaving the banks driveway with chains dragging and sparks flying as it went west on B2. The damaged ATM was left in the banks parking lot. After the truck turned into a nearby business parking lot, the officer flipped on the squads emergency lights and the driver, later identified as Brown, sped away, weaving and driving over a median and a large rock. Brown then bailed out of the truck, which continued moving and crashed into a parked car and bus. Brown ran, but was taken into custody after a chase. His cellphones screen showed directions to Key Inn at 2550 Cleveland Ave. N. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police went to the hotel, where the front desk employee said four men had just entered the hotel lobby and went into a first-floor room, which Brown had rented. Surveillance footage showed the men walking into the hotel lobby about 4:10 a.m. After they ignored commands to surrender, the SWAT team was called in and a search warrant was granted by a judge. Officers entered through a room window and the men were arrested. The banks security footage showed Merchant use a crowbar on the ATM, and he and Williams attached chains onto it, the charges say. At one point, Gill helped lift the ATM after it fell over. Other video from a nearby gas station showed a dark-colored SUV going back and forth past the bank 21 times. Police located the SUV, a black Mazda CX90 with Texas license plates, in the hotel parking lot. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators later learned Brown and Williams were seen scoping out a credit union in St. Louis Park in an SUV about an hour before the ATM theft in Roseville. Police also were given a picture of the F-250 backed up to an ATM in St. Louis Park with chains ready to be deployed, the charges state. According to ATMMarketplace.com, ATM thefts began rising in 2021, with hook and chain attacks accounting for most of them. A banking security official told the website that thieves consider ATMs worthwhile targets because many of them have a weakness in the vault door that makes it easier to hook into and open to get at the cash cassettes. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported in October 2023 that the FBI had identified a group of seven Houston men who tried to rob two Chase Bank ATMs with a stolen pickup and chain in Las Vegas in February 2022. One man who was charged told local police they learned how to pull off the heists by watching YouTube videos. SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) Like many Vietnam-era vets, Ed White weighed his options and got ahead of receiving a draft notice. I went down and asked Air Force people to put me in there, and they said, well, itll take a couple of weeks, White told 7NEWS. And I said, you dont understand And I said, I want to go tomorrow. And he did, but not in the way he imagined. It was a time when the Air Force had more people than they knew what to do with, said White. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Which meant his duties varied. One of his assignments was working for Lady Bird Johnson. Wed gotten duties in cutting grass and painting the grass green, White explained. And if nobody ever knew about Lady Bird Johnson, she did not like brown grass in the winter time and so her prerogative was to spray the grass green. Looking for a more challenging role, White deployed to Libya. Most of the time I worked the flight line at nighttime because we did the bombing runs, White said. Thats where they did the practice run and theyd drop live ammunition. Did runs with the Air Force and all the planes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After that tour, White discharged. He worked various jobs until he retired in 2000, but said the last 24 years have been the busiest. Been involved with the VFW, and I did a lot with a lot of National Conventions. Worked at the post. I was the Quartermaster for a Year, said White. White also volunteers for organizations like Rolling Thunder. When they find the remains of somebody, Rolling Thunder tries to make sure that they have some kind of closure, White explained. If they could find the families or something like that. And were doing escorts and a lot of work with the families to make sure that they have a service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes participated in Wreaths Across America and is a new member of the Vets Helping Vets Spartanburg Chapter. My philosophy is to get the veteran help and not put the burden on the veterans family, he shared. Thats why we have the services available. And thats available to every veteran. White said its emotional work. But its educational and it kind of makes you appreciate what this country stands for and what we are and the world and and the freedom that we do have, said White. Its something he hopes will continue. Ed White, Thank You for Your Service. To nominate a veteran like Ed White to be featured in our Thank You for Your Service series, 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 WSPA 7NEWS. 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 mother and a child are now refugees at a transit centre in Renk, South Sudan where they arrived with others on 18 December after fleeing escalating violence in Sudan where the health system is collapsing from shortages of medical supplies, a loss of doctors, and destroyed or looted medical facilities. Credit: Reason Moses Runyanga / UNHCR Sudanese health authorities are turning to AI to strengthen health systems after dozens of doctors were killed in the country's almost two-year-long civil war, according to a senior official. Sudan's health system is collapsing from shortages of medical supplies, a loss of doctors, and destroyed or looted medical facilities, particularly in hard-to-reach conflict areas, the World Health Organization has warned. Al-Moghirah Al-Amin Gad Al-Sayed, director of the department of therapeutic medicine at the Federal Ministry of Health in Sudan, told SciDev.Net: "In conflict states, AI can play a big role when traditional medical services are not available. In areas where there is no doctor available to examine an X-ray, for example, AI can be used to match a patient's image against thousands of stored images and provide a diagnosis, he explained. "Many studies have proven that [AI] shows great accuracy in medical diagnosis as a result of the data on which it has been trained, as well as the summary of human experiences and experiences that have fed it," he added. Migration of doctors was a problem for Sudan even before the onset of a war in which 50 medical personnel have been killed in attacks on health centers by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to Al-Sayed. The absence of medical staff and supplies is also fueling antimicrobial resistancewhere drugs are no longer effective against disease-causing bacteriaas patients turn to antibiotics indiscriminately, says Al-Sayed. This could create a "generation of resistant microbes" and the loss of one of the most powerful weapons in medicine, he warns. Al-Sayed says AI can "help greatly" in compensating for the absence of medical staff in conflict zones, but stresses that additional health workers are also urgently needed, along with supplies of medicines and medical devices. More broadly, innovation in health care delivery, such as using neutral actors to deliver vaccinations in conflict areas, is also crucial as traditional methods of providing services are eroded, he believes. Forgotten war The international media has failed to highlight the suffering of the Sudanese people, laments Al-Sayed: "The world sympathizes with the ugliness of Israeli crimes involving children in Gaza, which have been highlighted by the international media, while in Sudan we have thousands of stories that are more horrible, but do not receive the same attention." Violence against women is widespread among these atrocities, forcing many families to flee. More than 11.5 million people have been displaced since violent clashes broke out between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces in April 2023, according to the UN. "The RSF has traditionally assaulted women wherever it enters, as a message to families to leave the area, so these attacks are the main reason for the migration of Sudanese families," Al-Sayed explained. Extreme weather events linked to climate change have also exacerbated the impacts of the conflict, putting pressure on sanitation services and fueling the spread of diseases, he added. Months of torrential rains and floods which started in June last year killed scores of people and destroyed thousands of homes. The UN said the rains had worsened an already critical health situation, resulting in further displacements, cholera outbreaks and widespread infestations of scorpions and snakes in some states. "MSF [Medecins Sans Frontieres/ Doctors Without Borders] is a key partner in the functioning of hospitals in safe areas, helping to provide services in conflict zones, but it needs more donor support to be able to provide more supplies," added Al-Sayed. Provided by SciDev.Net Jacksonville deputies made a fifth arrest in the fatal shooting of Florida rapper Julio Foolio at a Tampa hotel last year. Davion Murphy, 27, was arrested Monday evening at an apartment on Labelle Street in Jacksonville after about six months on the run, the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office announced in social media posts. Murphy faces charges of first-degree murder and three counts of attempted first-degree murder. A warrant for Murphys arrest was issued in connection with the June 23 shooting death of Charles Jones, known as Julio Foolio. Jones, 26, was killed in what police described as a gang ambush outside the the Home2 Suites on McKinley Drive, near the University of South Florida. Three others in Jones' entourage were injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said Murphy was one of three gunmen captured in surveillance video of the shooting. Authorities arrested four other suspects in July: Isaiah Chance, Alicia Andrews, Sean Gathright, and Murphys brother, Rashad Murphy. Gathright and the Murphy brothers were the gunmen who ambushed the group outside the hotel, according to court documents. Chance and Andrews acted as lookouts, authorities said. A few days after the shooting, sheriffs deputies stopped Rashad Murphy near Atlanta in a silver Chevrolet Cruze that matched the description of the car used in the ambush. He was arrested for fleeing the traffic stop. Booking information shows Rashad Murphy was extradited to Hillsborough County Aug. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Marshals Service assisted the Jacksonville Sheriffs Offices SWAT team and gang investigation unit in arresting Davion Murphy on Monday, according to the sheriffs offices social media posts. We have worked this case closely with our partners at Tampa Police Department since the beginning and are in contact with them about this arrest, the posts said. Detectives interviewed Murphy and booked him into the Duval County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. He is awaiting extradition to Hillsborough County. This arrest highlights our commitment and perseverance to solving this murder, Jacksonville Sheriffs Office Director of Investigations and Homeland Security Mark Romano said in a prepared statement. While it took some time, JSO and partners worked daily to hold these individuals accountable. FARMINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) A third suspect has been arrested in connection to a home burglary from May 2024 in Farmington, police said. Jhoan Enrique Mina Lopez, 28, was arrested on Saturday, Jan. 4, in connection to a burglary that occurred in the area of Mountain Spring Road, police said. 2 charged for attempted break-in in Avon may be connected to South American ring Police said on May 2024, a homeowner called 911 after they heard a rear window break. When police arrived, they saw a broken window and a damaged screen. No suspects were found in the home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said an investigation led them to identify multiple suspects. Misael Agustin De La Colina Palomino, 32, was arrested and charged in connection to the thefts and Ninoska Bravo Valencia, 27. It is believed the two burglars targeted affluent communities across the state for years. Its also believed theyre connected to a South American theft group. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Police have charged a third person in connection with an attempted break-in reported in Farmington last spring. Jhoan Enrique Mina Lopez, 28, was charged Saturday after being extradited from Nebraska, according to the Farmington Police Department. He faces charges of attempted first-degree burglary and conspiracy to commit first-degree burglary. Police said Lopez was extradited by the Avon Police Department who arrested him on similar charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farmington police held a warrant for Lopezs arrest in connection with a burglary reported on May 7, 2024, in the area of Mountain Spring Road. According to police, the owner of the home called 911 after hearing a window being broken. Officers who responded found a broken window in the rear of the home and a damaged screen, police said. No intruders were found in the home. Farmington police said they were assisted by authorities in Avon during a lengthy investigation that led to the identification of three suspects. In November, police arrested 32-year-old Misael Agustin De La Colina Palomino and 27-year-old Alexandria Ninoska Bravo Valencia. They each face charges of conspiracy to commit first-degree burglary. Palomino was also charged with attempted first-degree burglary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Out-of-state pair charged in attempted residential burglary in Farmington Farmington police said Palomino and Valencia were also arrested by investigators in Avon on similar charges. Police said they are still investigating the attempted burglary and anticipate charging more suspects. The department remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community and appreciates the publics ongoing support, Farmington Lt. Kyle A. Noddin said in a statement. Anyone with information has been asked to contact the Farmington Police Department at 860-675-2400. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) A third teenager has been arrested in connection a shooting involving an off-duty reserve deputy after the teens allegedly tried to steal the deputys vehicle. Detective Tommie Brown said an unidentified 17-year-old was arrested on Sunday, January 5. The teen was charged with armed carjacking and aggravated assault. Brown said the teen was denied bond during a court appearance on Monday, January 6. Jackson police previously arrested a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old in connection to the case on Tuesday, December 31. The unidentified teens were also charged with aggravated assault and armed carjacking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident occurred at a gas station in the 3200 block of Medgar Evers Boulevard in Jackson before 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 29. Two teens arrested for trying to steal reserve deputys vehicle: JPD Brown said an off-duty reserve deputy with the Hinds County Sheriffs Office entered the gas station. Shortly afterwards, the reserve deputy noticed that a tan Kia SUV with several individuals pulled up near his vehicle. According to Brown, one of the suspects tried to take the reserve deputys vehicle. Brown said the other suspects noticed the reserve deputy and fired shots at him. The reserve deputy returned fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown said two of the suspects ran away, returned to the scene to retrieve the Kia and began to fire at the reserve deputy again. During the shootout, Brown said a citizen was grazed by a bullet and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. No other injuries were reported. Brown said the Kia SUV was reported stolen the same day as the shooting. Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) will investigate the shooting. 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 WJTV. BOSTON (WWLP) Approximately 30 cats are being nursed back to health after being rescued from a single-family home in Norfolk County. Massachusetts animal shelter raising money for homeless French Bulldog The MSPCA-Angell states that the cats were removed from their single-family home on January 2nd after living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The cats lived without enough access to food, water, and clean litter boxes, but are in generally good health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cats were removed in coordination with local animal control, which also took 10 cats from the home. No animal cruelty charges are being pursued at this time. MSPCA-Angell MSPCA-Angell MSPCA-Angell MSPCA-Angell These cats are pretty thin, so theyre on refeeding plans to get them to a healthier weight, said Vice President of the MSPCA-Angells Animal Protection Division, Mike Keiley. Some also need treatment for upper respiratory infections, which is common when theres a large number of cats in one home. It doesnt appear that any need serious medical treatment, which is good, but regardless, taking in so many unexpectedly at one time still puts an extraordinary strain on our resources, he added. The rescued cats are adult domestic shorthairs and their care will cost around $5,000. Those who wish to donate may go to mspca.org/manycats. If you are interested in adopting, you can visit mspca.org/adoptacat and are asked to visit Nevins Farm (Tuesday through Sunday, noon 4:30 p.m.) or the Northeast Animal Shelter (daily, 11:30 a.m. 5:00 p.m.) during their open hours. 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. TYLER, Texas (KETK) The Texas Medical Board has suspended a Tyler medical professional after determining he poses a continuing threat to public welfare following his arrest for murder. The TMB announced on Monday that Scott Lee Gobles respiratory care practitioner certificate was temporarily suspended following his arrest. A temporary suspension hearing will be held soon, however his suspension remains in place until the Board takes further action. Police arrest man for alleged abuse of mother, kidnapping of baby in Smith County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to an arrest affidavit, the Tyler Police Department was dispatched to Juniors Taco on 3815 South Southwest Loop 323 at around 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 11, after receiving calls from someone claiming their father had just shot someone at the restaurant. When officers arrived, they located a gunshot victim, later identified as Heriberto Ramirez, who had sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Records show Ramirez was taken to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. Prior to the shooting, Goble was at the restaurant with his two sons and an infant daughter who was in a car seat. Detectives said an argument began between Goble and restaurant employees ensued, and were told to leave. Mugshot of Scott Goble, courtesy of the Smith County Jail. While leaving, Goble and his sons continued arguing with employees, and a fight broke out in the parking lot, the affidavit stated. During the fight, Goble brandished a .45 caliber pistol he was carrying in a holster on his waist, and shot Ramirez in the abdomen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witnesses told officials the three men, Goble and his sons, entered the restaurant and overheard one of the men arguing with the restaurant staff and heard the owner tell them to leave. Driver admits to drinking before fatal 2023 Smith County crash, affidavit says The witness said it seemed like two of the males were urging the third older male who was carrying the car seat to leave, but that the older male seemed like he didnt want to and continued yelling at the restaurant staff, the affidavit said. A restaurant employee and the victim walked behind them, and the witness said he did not see who threw the first punch or who struck who, but saw Goble set the car seat down on the sidewalk outside the door and continued arguing with the restaurant employees just before the fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The witness saw that the shooter had been knocked on the ground and was near the Cadillac, about ten feet away from the victim, when the shooter drew his gun and shot him, arrest documents indicate. Further, that no one was actively fighting when the shooter drew the gun and fired. Later that day, separate interviews were conducted with Goble and his sons. Goble claims that one of the cooks was punching them and told Goble he was going to kill him and the baby. However upon further examination, Goble contradicted multiple statements and his answers became less consistent, and he could not provide a clear narrative of what happened. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Jan. 6MASSENA Three airlines have submitted proposals for the Essential Air Service contract at Massena International Airport, and millions of dollars in subsidies to do so. Boutique Air, the current provider, along with Cape Air and Contour Airlines have submitted their proposals to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The proposals range from $6.5 million for one year to near $25 million over four years. Boutique Air is proposing 21 weekly round trips to Boston, while Cape Air is offering three proposals option A of 21 weekly non-stop round trips to Boston, option B of 21 weekly non-stop round trips to Boston and seven weekly non-stop round trips to Albany, or option C of 21 weekly round trips to Boston with 14 non-stop and seven via Albany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contour Air is proposing 12 weekly round trips to Philadelphia or Dulles International Airport. "Please note, some proposals may require certain waivers from basic EAS requirements to be selected. Also, Contour's proposal would be operated as a public charter and, if selected, would need to be administered through the Alternate Essential Air Service program," Michael F. Martin from the U.S. Department of Transportation said in an email to Town Supervisor Susan J. Bellor. In their proposal, Contour Airline officials said service is "contingent on the community waiving its right to scheduled air transportation or submission as Alternate Essential Air Service." According to the Department of Transportation, "Public charter flights are flights where a person or company sells seats to the public for a flight to a specific destination. The operator of the flight contracts with a Part 135 air carrier to provide the flight services." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Part 135 air carrier is a company that operates non-scheduled commercial aircraft. It could include air taxi flights, private air charters, air ambulances, contracted U.S. mail transport, or scenic and sightseeing transportation. Boutique Air is proposing a two-, three- or four-year contract. They're seeking a subsidy $5,756,644 the first year, $6,044,477 the second year, $6,225,811 the third year and $6,412,585 the final year. Cape Air is also proposing two- and four-year contracts. For Massena to Boston under a two-year contract, they're seeking a subsidy of $5,615,014 for year one and $5,923,840 for year two. Under a four-year contract, they're seeking $5,544,826 for year one, $5,849,792 for year two, $6,171,530 for year three, and $6,510,965 for year four. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For option B, under a two-year contract, they're seeking $6,229,784 for year one and $6,572,422 for year two, Under a four-year contract, they're seeking $6,151,911 for year one, $6,490,267 for year two, $6,847,231 for year three, and $7,223,829 for year four. For option C, under a two year contract, they're seeking $5,146,259 for year one and $5,429,303 for year two. Under a four-year contract, they're seeking $5,081,931 for year one, $5,361,437 for year two, $5,656,316 for year three, and $5,967,413 for year four. Contour Airlines is seeking a one-year subsidy of $6,531,324.75. Belllor said she's seeking public comment on what airline the community would prefer to serve at Massena International Airport. The town board's recommendation is due to the Department of Transportation by Jan. 24, and Martin said he'll send the recommendation to the assistant secretary for aviation and international affairs for a final decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boutique Air's contract expires on March 31 and the new EAS contract would be effective April 1. Boutique air and Cape Air had submitted proposals in 2017. Cape Air had been the town's EAS provider since 2008 following the departure of Big Sky Airlines. However, Boutique Air was endorsed by the Massena Town Board and approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation to begin service in April 2017. As the Boutique Air contract was drawing to close, the town board heard pitches from SkyWest Airlines and Boutique Air in 2018 and ultimately endorsed Boutique Air for continued service. But, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced in February 2018 that SkyWest Airlines had been chosen as the region's new Essential Air Service provider at both Ogdensburg and Massena international airports. However, shorty after the announcement, SkyWest pulled out of plans for Massena International Airport following the discovery by airline officials that the Massena airport's runway did not meet Federal Aviation Administration requirements for its larger jets. With SkyWest Airline's withdrawal, Boutique Air continued to provide EAS service for Massena. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Transportation selected Boutique Air over two other airlines to continue serving Massena in 2021. Also submitting bids were Cape Air and Southern Airways Express, LLC. However, Boutique Air announced in September 2022 that it wanted to terminate its EAS contract with the town so it could rebid at a higher rate. Boutique officials at the time said their cost of doing business had increased, and the current subsidy didn't cover that. At that point, the Department of Transportation requested proposals from air carriers to provide replacement Essential Air Service in Massena. They received two proposals from Boutique Air, as well as proposals from Contour Airlines and Southern Airways Express and ultimately continued with Boutique Air. Most recently, the Department of Transportation announced in February 2023 that Boutique Air would continue to serve as the airport's EAS provider for the next two years. Under the terms of that contract, the airline provides 21 round-trip flights per week from Massena International Airport to Boston Logan International Airport at an annual subsidy rate of $5,322,161 for the first year and $5,535,047 for the second year. Three men face burglary charges following a break-in at a Covington Twp. convenience store early Thursday morning, police said. State troopers were dispatched to the Exxon Als Kwik Mart, 10 Scranton-Pocono Highway, around 2:27 a.m. for the report of a burglary in progress, according to a criminal complaint. When they arrived, the troopers saw shoe prints in the snow in the back of the business by the rear door, which they observed to be open, police said. A representative from Blue Diamond Security who was monitoring the live video surveillance footage informed troopers the suspects fled toward Route 435 north, per the complaint. Troopers observed a cluster of shoe prints on state Route 435 followed by a set of tire marks in the center of both lanes, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers followed the tire marks for 2.2 miles to 1007 state Route 435 in Covington Twp. where they saw fresh tire marks, per the complaint. Then, when troopers passed the Jetz Car Wash on Route 435 in Moscow Borough, they observed a white Honda Civic without its taillights on and initiated a traffic stop, police said. Troopers engaged with the driver later identified as Yamil ONeill Ramos-Quintana of Elizabeth, New Jersey and detected an odor of alcohol and marijuana coming from the vehicle, per the complaint. They also saw a flat head tool and on the drivers side floorboard and open container in the car, police said. Troopers also saw a bag on the right front passenger floorboard and found several crow bars inside after receiving consent from Ramos-Quintana and the front seat passenger later identified as Derek Jose Alvarez-Maisonet of Kissimmee, Florida to search it, officers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A third occupant, sitting in the back, was later identified as Brayan Matos-Raldiris, 1608 Township Blvd., Scranton, police said. When troopers determined the shoe prints outside the car during the traffic stop matched those at the convenience store, Ramos-Quintana and Matos-Raldiris were taken into custody without incident, officers said. Alvarez-Maisonet fled from the traffic stop before falling in the snow and being arrested, per the complaint. During their investigation, troopers noticed the metal brackets on the rear office door of Jetz Car Wash had been pried open and the shoe prints matched those at the other two locations, police said. Troopers then drove back to 1007 state Route 435 where they found a cash register door near the embankment, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Blue Diamond Security official observed two suspects enter the convenience store through the rear door at 2:05 a.m. and saw a male identified as Alvarez-Maisonet wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and dark pants take the cash register, officers said. A second male identified as Matos-Raldiris was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and dark pants, per the complaint. When the security official announced through the camera system that police were being dispatched, the suspects fled the scene, officers said. He later witnessed the two suspects re-enter the business and steal the cash register, police said. An employee at Als Kwik Mart told police the suspects stole three to four packs of Newport cigarettes, several vapes and a cash register with approximately $32 in change, officers said. Police charged Ramos-Quintana, 29, with burglary, criminal trespass, theft by unlawful taking and criminal mischief. As of Monday, he remained in Lackawanna County Prison in lieu of $50,000 bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police charged Alvarez-Maisonet, 22, with burglary, criminal trespass, theft by unlawful taking, criminal mischief, flight to avoid apprehension and evading arrest. Police charged Matos-Raldiris, 22, with burglary, criminal trespass, theft by unlawful taking and criminal mischief. As of Monday, Alvarez-Maisonet and Matos-Raldiris remained in Lackawanna County Prison in lieu of $100,000 bail. A preliminary hearing for the three men is scheduled for Jan. 15 at 9:15 a.m. Three people were injured in a Russian artillery attack on the town of Semenivka in Chernihiv Oblast on the morning of 7 January. Source: Viacheslav Chaus, Head of Chernihiv Oblast Military Administration Quote: "The Russians attacked the town yet again in the morning. Three people have been injured. These are two men aged 45 and 65 and a woman aged 68. Two people have been taken to hospital." A civilian being taken to hospital Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Ukraine's National Police Details: Chaus noted that Russian troops had struck civilian infrastructure. The bombardment damaged the premises of a business, buildings and local residents' homes. The official added that the town had been under Russian artillery fire since the evening of 6 January. Support UP or become our patron! By Tora Agarwala GUWAHATI (Reuters) -Three miners were feared dead inside a flooded coal mine in a remote district of India's northeastern Assam state, authorities said on Tuesday, and the men were part of a total of nine still trapped as rescue teams worked to reach them. The mine, in an area controlled by the state government, appeared to be illegal, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on social media platform X, adding that local police had arrested one person in connection with the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rescuers have spotted three bodies but have not yet recovered them, the local government said in a statement, a day after the nine miners were trapped by heavy flooding that police said was likely triggered underground. "The well is about 150 feet deep, of which almost a hundred feet is filled with water," Kaushik Rai, a local minister who is at the site, told Reuters. "Three teams have attempted to enter it since morning and have managed to go as far as 30 to 35 feet." Police said the flooding likely took place inside the mine. "They (the miners) probably hit some water channel and water came out and flooded it," Mayank Kumar, district police chief in Dima Hasao said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Army teams deployed divers, helicopters and engineers to aid rescue efforts in Assam's hilly Dima Hasao district, the army said in a statement. Rescue teams lowered divers in a container using a pulley into a large shaft that leads to the mine, according to video from news agency ANI, in which Reuters has a minority stake. Photographs shared by the army on social media showed rescue workers with ropes, cranes and other equipment standing at the edge of a large, vertical mine. Coal mine-related disasters in the remote northeastern part of India are not uncommon. In one of the biggest incidents, in 2019, at least 15 miners were buried while working in an illegal mine in the neighbouring state of Meghalaya after it was flooded by water from a nearby river. (Reporting by Tora Agarwala; writing by Shilpa Jamkhandikar; editing by Saad Sayeed and Bernadette Baum) 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 Raising Children Network provides resources for child health, including neurodevelopmental needs. Credit: Raising Children Network screenshot Neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism affect about 1 in 10 children. These conditions impact development, behavior and well-being. But children with these conditions and their caregivers often can't get the support they need. Families report difficulties accessing health-care providers and experience long wait lists to receive care. Digital tools, such as apps and websites, are often viewed as a solution to these gaps. With a single click or a download, families might be able to access information to support their child. There are lots of digital tools available, but it's hard to know what is and isn't useful. Our new study evaluated freely available digital resources for child neurodevelopment and mental health to understand their quality and evidence base. We found many resources were functional and engaging. However, resources often lacked evidence for the information provided and the claimed positive impact on children and families. This is a common problem in the digital resource field, where the high expectations and claims of impact from digital tools to change health care have not yet been realized. What type of resources? Our study identified 3,435 separate resources, of which 112 (43 apps and 69 websites) met our criteria for review. These resources all claimed to provide information or supports for child neurodevelopment, mental health or well-being. Resources had to be freely available, in English and have actionable information for children and families. The most common focus was on autism, representing 17% of all resources. Resources suggested they provided strategies to promote speech, language and social development, and to support challenging behaviors. Other common areas included language and communication (14%), and ADHD (10%). Resources had various purposes, including journaling and providing advice, scheduling support, and delivering activities and strategies for parents. Resources delivered information interactively, with some apps organizing content into structured modules. Resources also provided options for alternative and assistive communication for people with language or communication challenges. Most apps were functional and accessible Our first question was about how engaging and accessible the information was. Resources that are hard to use aren't used frequently, regardless of the information quality. We evaluated aesthetics, including whether digital tools were easy to use and navigate, stylistically consistent, with clean and appealing graphics for users. Most resources were rated as highly engaging, with strong accessibility and functionality. But many lacked quality information We ranked resources on various features from 1 (inadequate) to 5 (excellent), with a ranking of 3 considered acceptable. These ratings looked at how credible the resource was and whether there was evidence supporting it. Despite their functionality, 37% of reviewed apps did not meet the minimum acceptable standards for information quality. This means many apps could not be recommended. Most websites fared better than apps. There also wasn't a lot of scientific evidence to suggest using either apps or digital resources actually helped families. Studies show long-term engagement with digital tools is rare, and downloads don't correspond to frequent usage or benefits. Digital tools are often viewed as a panacea to health-care gaps, but the evidence is yet to show they fill such gaps. Digital health is a fast-moving field and resources are often made available before they have been properly evaluated. What should you look for in digital resources? We found the highest quality resources were developed in collaboration with institutions, such as health, university or government groups. One highly rated resource was the Raising Children's Network and the associated app, Raising Healthy Minds. These are co-developed with a university and hospital, and by people with appropriate qualifications. This resource provides information to support children's overall health, development and well-being, with dedicated sections addressing neurodevelopmental needs and concerns. Our research shows parents can assess whether digital resources are high quality by checking they are: factually correct . Look for where the app or resource is getting its information. Does the author have the qualifications and training to provide the information? Are they a registered health expert who is accountable to a regulatory body (such as AHPRA, the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency) for providing information that does not cause harm? consistent across multiple credible sources, such as health institutions. linked to supporting information . Look for reliable links to reputable institutions. Links to peer-reviewed scientific journals are often helpful as those articles will also usually describe the limitations of the research presented. up-to-date. Apps should be frequently updated. For websites, dates of update are usually found on the homepage or at the bottom of individual pages. Beware of red flags Some things to watch out for are: testimonials and anecdotes without evidence and scientific links to back the anecdotes up. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. no information provided about conflicts of interest. Organizations gain when you click on their links or take their advice (financial, reputation and brand development). Think about what they gain when you use their information to help keep a balanced perspective. Remember, the app's star rating doesn't mean it will contain factual information from a reliable source or be helpful for you and your child. The role of digital tools Digital tools won't usually replace a health professional, but they can support care in many different ways. They may be used to help to educate and prepare for meetings, and to collaborate with health providers. They may also be used to collect information about daily needs. Studies show reporting on sleep in children can be notoriously difficult, for example. But tracking sleep behavior with actigraphy, where movement and activity patterns are measured using a wearable device, can provide information to support clinical care. With the promise of artificial intelligence, there will also be new opportunities to support daily living. Our findings reflect a broader problem for digital health, however. Much investment is often made in developing products to drive use, with spurious claims of health benefits. What's needed is a system that prioritizes the funding, implementation and evaluation of tools to demonstrate benefits for families. Only then may we realise the potential of digital tools to benefit those who use them. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Abdiel Pacheco doesnt know much about the stars and planets visible in the night sky, he said, but he is eager to use his new telescope to learn more. Abdiel, 11, and his brothers Emmanuel, 13, and Christopher, 9, were among the hundreds of boys and girls who selected gifts Monday at Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day celebration. Despite the crowd, the children were orderly as they picked from the selection of age-appropriate toys, craft kits, grooming products and more arrayed on tables in the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, 701 Penn St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luisianys Santos, 9, left, and her sister Erielys Santos, 11, look at the selection of toys during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) Before choosing their prizes, the kids had a chance to greet the three kings portrayed by Wilfredo Rivera, Wanda Rivera and Edson Castillo of Grupo Folklorico Virgin del Quinche of Reading, a group that helps preserve Latino folk traditions. For me, this is especially significant and something that I appreciate, Moran said, explaining that in his native Puerto Rico and many Latin American countries, the Epiphany, or Three Kings Day, is the biggest gift-giving day of the Christmas season. Led by City Councilman Jaime Baez Jr., children and their parents make their way through the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel to to pick out a toy during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Christian feast day, celebrated Jan. 6, commemorates the visit of the wise men to the baby Jesus. The story is based on the Gospel of Matthew, which tells of the magi, distinguished men from the East who followed a star to Bethlehem to see the newborn baby Jesus and brought him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, symbols of his royal status, divinity and mortality respectively. Though the Bible does not provide their names, origins, status or exact number, later Christian traditions identify them as three kings named Casper, Melchior and Balthaser. In Latin American and some other cultures, the three kings bring gifts to the children on the Epiphany rather than Santa Claus bringing toys on Christmas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bronson Bryant, 10, Reading, picked out a sidewalk chalk set during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Reading. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) I remember growing up in Puerto Rico, Moran said, this day was what I waited all year long for. I love the fact that we are keeping the tradition, the culture, alive. The gifts of his childhood years were rarely extravagant or costly, he said, but were anticipated and welcomed with joy. Children at the event found an assortment of items Moran wouldnt have dreamed of in his youth, he noted, thanking title sponsors Axcess Industries and Customers Bank, and other sponsors including the DoubleTree, Kuhn Funeral Home, Matos Towing, TKs Toy Box/Snapo, Reading Area Water Authority, Reading Parking Authority and Reading Recreation Commission for making the event possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The toys and other items were distributed to children up to14, and there was something to please everyone. It didnt take long for Abdiel, who has an interest in the sciences, to select a boxed set including a telescope and microscope. His younger brother, Christopher, chose a lightweight foldable scooter, while the oldest of the three Pacheco brothers picked a skateboard. The boys said it was too cold and snowy Monday to try out their new riding toys, but on the first warm day, they plan to test them out. * Children and their parents pass by the Three Kings in the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Reading during Mayor Eddie Morans annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Luisianys Santos, 9, left, and her sister Erielys Santos, 11, look at the selection of toys during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) * Mayor Eddie Moran held the 6th annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Reading today. L-R Elizabeth Castro, 13, and her sister, Eileen Castro, 8, look at the available toys stacked throughout the lobby of the hotel. Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt 1/6/25 * REG-L-ThreeKings Mayor Eddie Moran held the 6th annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Reading today. Brayden Castro, 5, Reading, shows off his new truck at todays event. Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt 1/6/25 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Children and their parents make their way through the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel to to pick out a toy during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) * Bronson Bryant, 10, Reading, picked out a sidewalk chalk set during Mayor Eddie Morans sixth annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Reading. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) Show Caption 1 of 6 Children and their parents pass by the Three Kings in the lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Reading during Mayor Eddie Morans annual Three Kings Day toy giveaway Monday. (Special to the Reading Eagle: Susan L. Angstadt) Expand 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. More: OK Supreme Court refuses to stop Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett from voting 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. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OG&E rate increase challenged by three Oklahoma lawmakers MCKINLEY COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) Three New Mexico residents are facing federal charges in relation to the assault and kidnapping of a woman in 2024. All three suspects, 45-year-old Michael Clubfoot, 41-year-old Carlyn Calavaza, and 40-year-old Alexis Mahooty, will face a sentence totaling up to life in prison if they are convicted. According to the federal indictment, each of the suspects is facing a kidnapping charge; Michael Clubfoot and Alexis Mahooty are each facing an assault charge; and Clubfoot alone is additionally accused of assault with a dangerous weapon, use of a firearm during a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While waiting for the trial, which is set for February 10, Clubfoot will remain in custody, and Calavaza and Mahooty will remain under third-party supervision. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEW MEXICO (KRQE) Three New Mexico Pueblos are receiving funding from the federal government to support high speed internet access. Story continues below The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has awarded $22.6 million to three tribal communities. $18.6 million will be going to San Felipe Pueblo, $2.4 million for Jemez and $1.5 million to Picuris. Officials say the funds will be used to build broadband infrastructure, expand technical support and training as well as provide workforce development opportunities. 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. Three more children, a 17-year-old teenager and two young boys, have been returned from temporarily occupied territories to Ukraine-controlled territory. Source: Dmytro Lubinets, the Verkhovna Rada (Parliamentary) Commissioner for Human Rights, on Telegram Details: He noted that the mother of the younger boys was forced to leave Ukraine because of the war. Quote: "She was separated from her two young sons, who remained in the temporarily occupied territory in Donetsk Oblast with their biological father. The woman was unable to get her children back on her own, so she turned to our Office [Office of the Ombudsman ed.]. We managed to help her: the children were evacuated from the occupied territory and reunited with their mother. Today, this family is together, safe, and taking the first steps towards healing the wounds of war," Lubinets said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 17-year-old teenager, who managed to return to Ukraine-controlled territory, suffered persecution by the Russians for his pro-Ukrainian views and support to Ukraine's Armed Forces. Quote: "He supported Ukraine while being on occupied territories. As a result, he was persecuted by occupation officials: interrogations, threats, and intimidation became commonplace for the teenager. However, neither fear or pressure crushed his spirit," Lubinets said. The teenager is currently receiving humanitarian and financial support and is preparing to study at a Ukrainian educational institution. Background: Earlier, it was reported that six more children were brought back from the temporarily occupied territories to the territory controlled by Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO/AP) The peaceful certification Monday of Novembers presidential election in the United States stands in stark contrast with the violence of 2021 when then-President Donald Trumps supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in Washington. Four years to the day later, KELOLAND News is looking back at what South Dakotas congressional delegation and governor said that year about the events of Jan. 6, 2021. Gov. Kristi Noem, Sen. John Thune, Sen. Mike Rounds and Rep. Dusty Johnson, all Republicans, still hold the same offices in January 2024 which they held in January 2021. Nold named superintendent of Sioux Falls Schools Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luckily we are safe, but it has been a difficult day, Johnson said on Jan. 6, 2021. The images we are seeing are jarring. The Capitol Police are doing their best. But they have been overrun by people who crave violence, and too many people have for too long been sowing these seeds of anger and division, and this is what you get. I mean, this is the tragic harvest, and it needs to stop. Were not going to let a bunch of thugs stop our democracy from doing the things that the people sent us here to do, Thune said on Jan. 6, 2021. More than 1,000 people have pleaded guilty to crimes associated with the 2021 assault on the Capitol. Roughly 220 others have been convicted at trial. It was a pretty angry, unruly mob, Thune said on Jan. 6, 2021. I mean, as I was leaving, there were people yelling profanities, and they had broken in. They had broken all the perimeters into the Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Twitter that day, Thune called the events at the Capitol inexcusable and disgusting. Then-President Donald Trump, who four years later is soon to return to the Oval Office, had encouraged supporters on Jan. 6, 2021 to go to the Capitol. Were going to walk down to the Capitol, and were going to cheer on our brave senators, Trump said. Native South Dakotan is US Secretary of Senate Sen. Mike Rounds said later that month that he wasnt happy with Trumps messaging. I was disappointed in the remarks which he made, Rounds said on Jan. 19, 2021. I dont think that he helped to quell the emotion at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Noem, who is set to join the second Trump administration as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, sharply criticized the events of Jan. 6, 2021 later that month. What happened in January 6th was horrible and should never happen again in this country, Noem said in January 2021. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The death toll following a powerful earthquake in Tibet on Tuesday has risen to at least 53, according to Chinese state media. The magnitude 7.1 earthquake was centred in Tibet at a depth of about 10 kilometres, the US Geological Survey said. Chinese state news agency Xinhua, citing local authorities, said at least 53 people had been killed and 62 injured. Many houses near the epicentre had collapsed, state broadcaster CCTV reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The quake occurred in Dingri County, on the north side of Mount Everest and about 400 kilometres west of the Tibetan capital, Lhasa. According to Xinhua, the tremors were clearly felt in the surrounding area. The Chinese military had sent a drone to survey the epicentre, the agency reported. Rescue operations are underway and residents were being evacuated to avoid possible effects of aftershocks, the agency added. The Chinese earthquake monitoring centre CENC recorded the magnitude as 6.8. Tibet, as well as the entire southwestern part of China, Nepal and northern India, are frequently hit by earthquakes caused by the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates colliding. A devastating quake in China's Sichuan province in 2008 claimed around 70,000 lives. In 2015, a strong quake struck the Kathmandu region of Nepal, killing around 9,000 people and injuring thousands. Is this the end of viral dance trends, catchy earworms, and 10-part series of topics you never thought about? President Joe Biden signed legislation into law last April to ban video-sharing app TikTok by January 2025 if its Chinese parent company ByteDance does not sell it. And the deadline is rapidly approaching. The Chinese-owned platform has raised questions over the years for allegedly harvesting data for those who have the app installed and use it frequently. TikTok stated it now uses a separate, U.S.-based entity to store its American user data. CEO Shou Zi Chew has repeatedly sat before Congress and denied the app shares U.S. user data with the Chinese government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are over 170 million TikTok users based in the U.S., an app spokesperson told USA TODAY last month. Here's when Floridians could possibly see their favorite app disappear from app stores and how it could potentially be saved by President-elect Donald Trump. When will TikTok be banned in the United States? The ban will go into place on Sunday, Jan. 19 if ByteDance does not sell the platform by then. What will happen to TikTok on Jan. 19? Beginning on Jan. 19, new users will not be able to download TikTok from app stores and its existing users will not be able to update the app. According to Reuters, U.S. lawmakers told Apple and Alphabets Google, which operate the two main mobile app stores, that they must be ready to remove TikTok from their stores on the set date. What if I don't delete TikTok. Can I still use it? Yes, you still would be able to use it. According to CBS, TikTok will not disappear from individuals' phones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, its features may be restricted you might not be able to create or interact with content, as well as make a new account. There might still be hope for TikTok. Can it still be bought? USA TODAY reported billionaire Frank McCourt has expressed his interest in purchasing the U.S. portion of the platform with a group of associates. McCourt, founder of Project Liberty and executive chairman of McCourt Global, said a consortium of associates has verbally pledged up to $20 billion for the purchase. Could President-elect Donald Trump save TikTok? He might be able to. He has almost 15 million followers on the app himself. Trump's opinion on TikTok has swayed over the years. Previously in 2020, Trump was vocal about his distrust and even signed an executive order to ban the app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar to 2024's decision, the Trump administration gave ByteDance a deadline to sell to a U.S. company. While they were in talks with Microsoft and Oracle to sell, TikTok ended up filing a request for a preliminary injunction to prevent the app from being banned, which was granted. Once Trump left office in 2021, Biden revoked the order and instead ordered the Secretary of Commerce to investigate the app. As of 2024, Trump has since changed his tune on TikTok. At a December press conference, he told reporters "TikTok has a "warm spot in my heart," crediting the app for growing his relationship with young voters. He also posted his support for the app on Truth Social, writing "Why would I want to ban TikTok?" He submitted a legal filing to the U.S. Supreme Court on Dec. 27 to pause any bans on the app, writing a delay would let his administration pursue a negotiated resolution. When will the Supreme Court review the TikTok ban? The Supreme Court is set to review TikTok' arguments on Jan. 10, 2025, just over a week before the ban could be implemented. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the brief order from the court, those petitioning against the law are instructed to argue based on whether or not protecting U.S. citizens from foreign-controlled applications violates the First Amendment. Is TikTok already banned in Florida? Sort of While the app is not completely banned in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis has blocked it on government devices and school networks. Back in 2023, he signed two bills to restrict TikTok The Florida Digital Bill of Rights and HB 379. In an interview with Piers Morgan for Fox Nation the same year, he voiced his thoughts on TikTok and confirmed he would completely ban the app if he could. "I would. I think so. I think it's a security risk. They are harvesting so much data on our citizens," DeSantis said when asked about it. "There's a whole bunch of other apps and stuff that are out there and, honestly, I've got young kids and I don't want our kids on some of this stuff." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Contributing: Greta Cross, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on Florida Today: TikTok ban might be in Supreme Court's hands Friday. See why Education has the power to change the trajectory of a childs life forever. I saw this firsthand many years ago while mentoring a boy named Adam through an at-risk youth program. Adam had a difficult home life and was attending a school that didnt meet his unique educational needs. His grades and confidence were suffering, and his situation offered little hope for a bright future. But that wasnt the end of Adams story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After working with his guardian to place Adam in a high-performing charter school, everything changed. Adam found the right educational fit where he could excel, and it transformed his life. My time spent with Adam profoundly shaped the way I view education. I witnessed the educational disparities across different incomes and ZIP codes, and I knew there were thousands of children like Adam who deserved better. Every child is unique. Every child has different learning styles. Every child has a different life situation. So shouldnt every family not just the wealthy have the freedom to choose the right education for their child? Tennessees school choice pilot program shows tremendous success Thats why, when I became governor, we made school choice a top priority, passing legislation for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, more than 3,500 students are enrolled in a participating school in Tennessees three largest counties. As enrollment numbers continue to rise, the ESA program has earned a 99% satisfaction rate among participating families. Still, there are thousands of children across Tennessee just like Adam who may need a different learning environment to reach their full potential. Thats what Tennessees Education Freedom Act is all about. Let's put Tennessee parents back in the driver's seat When it comes to education, parents know best, and theres a reason why school choice is sweeping the nation. Now more than ever, parents are advocating for their right to decide what, where and how their child learns. To date, 33 states have adopted school choice measures that put parents in the drivers seat of their childs education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parental rights were on the ballot this November, with Americans and Tennesseans overwhelmingly supporting President Donald Trump, who has long supported school choice. Its time that Tennessee students benefit from school choice, too. Opinion: Tennessee should fix roads and bridges before expanding school voucher program The Education Freedom Act will empower parents in every Tennessee county with the freedom to pick the right school for their child, ensuring that families not the government can choose where their taxpayer dollars are spent. Our universal school choice plan will ensure that school choice is a reality for every Tennessee child regardless of zip code or income by reserving the first 10,000 scholarships for underserved students. Public schools do not risk losing resources and will get more Opponents claim that school choice initiatives hurt public schools, but that couldnt be further from the truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Education Freedom Act will continue our unwavering commitment to public schools by extending a $2,000 bonus to every Tennessee public school teacher, dedicating funds to build and maintain K-12 public school facilities, and ensuring that state funding to school districts will never decrease due to student disenrollment. No public school district will lose resources as a result of the Education Freedom Act. In fact, theyll get more. Our total funding for public education since 2019 will reach at least $2.5 billion with the next state budget, and in partnership with the General Assembly, we will continue to invest hundreds of millions of dollars into public education and deliver on our promise to raise starting teacher pay to a record high. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee The Volunteer State can have the best public schools in America and provide parents with more choices at the same time, and it starts with Tennessees Education Freedom Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2025, Tennessee has the opportunity to make education freedom a reality for every child, and that means a brighter future for all Tennesseans. Gov. Bill Lee is the 50th governor of the State of Tennessee. The governor's office offered this guest opinion column to news media statewide. The USA TODAY Network Tennessee published this essay to further the conversation on this timely issue. Send letters of 250 words of fewer to letters@tennessean.com. Include you full name, city/town and ZIP code. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee parents get a choice with Education Freedom Act | Opinion Tobias Read was elected secretary of state in the Nov. 5, 2024 elections. (Laura Tesler/Oregon Capital Chronicle) In an auditorium on his alma maters Salem campus on Monday, Tobias Read took his oath of office as secretary of state with a promise to spend the next four years working to make Oregon better. Read, a Democrat who spent the past eight years as treasurer, was elected secretary of state in November, easily defeating Republican state Sen. Dennis Linthicum. He was sworn in at Willamette University, where he graduated in 1997 with a bachelors degree in politics and economics and had his first political experience working at the state Capitol across the street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And now the Beaverton Democrat is the states chief auditor and chief elections officer and next in line for governor should Gov. Tina Kotek resign or die in office. Hes inheriting an office that has seen significant turnover Oregon has had six secretaries of state and two acting secretaries during the past decade and is still reeling from the political scandal that ended former Secretary Shemia Fagans career two years ago and years of threats and unfounded conspiracies targeting elections. As your secretary of state, Ill work every day to make sure that Oregon isnt just a place where democracy survives, its a place where democracy flourishes, he said. Were lucky in Oregon. Weve inherited enormous advantages and tremendous opportunities, and we owe it to the people who came before us and the people who will come after us to leave this place better than we found it. He cited late U.S. representative and civil rights leader John Lewis, who in his final, posthumously published essay in 2020, wrote that democracy is not a state but an act, and that each generation must do its part to nurture and strengthen it. Our obligation, yours and mine, is to honor the generations who worked to establish it and to preserve it, and to serve those who will inherit it from us, Read said. That is not an abstract union. Its a daily act of commitment. The way we contribute to a more perfect union, or in our case, a better Oregon, is by serving the people who put their trust in us not by defending government for its own sake but by ensuring that government delivers real, tangible results that improve the daily lives of Oregonians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregonians deserve a government that earns their confidence, Read said, but recent years have seen increased cynicism and eroding trust. He said his top priority is to fix that, with special attention paid to elections, government accountability and participating in government. Changes planned He said hell start by hiring election staff with experience and expertise in election administration the states most recent elections director, Molly Woon, was a longtime Democratic spokesperson who previously served as deputy director of the Oregon Democratic Party and a spokesperson for the Senate Democratic caucus and Democrat Kate Brown when she was secretary of state. Read announced just before Christmas that he would replace Woon with Lane County Clerk Dena Dawson, who worked in election offices in Colorado, Nevada and Multnomah County before running elections in Oregons fourth most populous county. Oregon has been a pioneer in vote by mail and expanding access to the ballot, Read said. These are good things, and we must defend these achievements, as well as the dedicated election workers and county clerks who make them possible, but we must also work to rebuild trust in our elections by ensuring that the Secretary of States Office is, and is seen by voters as being neutral, unbiased and nonpartisan. He also plans to change how the Audits Division identifies which agencies and programs to audit to avoid politics or personal agendas. An audit of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commissions marijuana regulations ended Fagans tenure as secretary of state, after reporting from Willamette Week revealed she was working a $10,000-per-month side gig for one of the states most prominent marijuana retailers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drew Johnston, a former Read aide who now works as government affairs director for the Seattle Seahawks, introduced him. Johnstons father, Bryan, was a Democratic state representative from Salem who gave Read his first political job: a $35 weekly stipend in 1995 to help with filing bills, a process that required a lot of paper in those days. A little more than a decade later, Read returned to the Capitol as a state representative, and his old mentors son joined him as a legislative aide. Read served five terms in the state House, including a stint as majority leader, before being elected treasurer in 2016. Political slogans are kind of like refrains and echoes, and so this 30-year-old Tobias had the subtly brazen political slogan of For the long run, Johnston said. And so it is amazing that he has been able to make good on that promise and we are here celebrating not only his eighth general election, but his third statewide election. Oregon Historical Society Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk rehashed some notable and notorious previous secretaries of state, including the states first: Lucien Heath, who came to Oregon on the Oregon Trail and served simultaneously as mayor of Salem and secretary of state before departing for California. Two other early secretaries, Stephen Chadwick and Frank Benson, would go on to serve simultaneously as secretary of state and governor ignoring that such double-dipping was entirely unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also will make history, Tymchuk said. Not only can the 6-foot-7 Read steal the title of tallest secretary of state in Oregon history from the legendary Gov. Tom McCall, hes the first secretary of state to have previously held another statewide elected office. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX 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 Louisiana resident has died after being hospitalized with bird flu in December of last year, marking the first known U.S. death from the virus. The patient who, "was over the age of 65 and was reported to have underlying medical conditions," state health officials announced in a statement, tested positive for the virus and developed severe illness after exposure to wild birds and a personal backyard poultry flock that was infested with H5N1. No other human cases have been identified in the state. "CDC has carefully studied the available information about the person who died in Louisiana and continues to assess that the risk to the general public remains low. Most importantly, no person-to-person transmission spread has been identified," the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in a statement. The case involved the D1.1 strain of H5N1, the same subtype that caused the severe condition of a 13-year-old girl in Canada late last year. Genetic sequencing of the Louisiana patient's virus revealed rare mutations that likely developed during the course of infection, a news release shows. However, the changes were not found in the animals believed to have transmitted the virus. "Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection," the CDC noted late last year. Most other bird-to-human cases have occurred in workers at major poultry farms; "this is the first case of H5N1 bird flu in the U.S. that has been linked to exposure to a backyard flock," the CDC previously said. The agency also stressed that an eventual case of severe H5N1 avian flu in an American was "not unexpected." "Avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection has previously been associated with severe human illness in other countries during 2024 and prior years, including illness resulting in death," the CDC stated. The case does serve as a reminder, however, that anyone with close exposure to birds needs to be careful. "This means that backyard flock owners, hunters and other bird enthusiasts should also take precautions," the agency said. At least 66 human bird flu cases have been diagnosed in the United States this year. The majority of the cases have been in California and Washington, and the infections have mostly surfaced in workers who had been in contact with infected poultry or dairy cows. For now, there's no evidence that the bird flu is spreading from person to person, and most cases have largely been mild, the main symptom being conjunctivitis, or pinkeye. No cases, or deaths from person to person spread, have been reported. In Dec. 2024, U.S. health officials reported that the strain of bird flu detected in a California child is similar to the strain spreading through livestock, though the patient had no known exposure to infected animals. While the findings were not definitive, tests "showed that the virus was very similar to viruses detected in both dairy cattle and poultry as well as to A[H5N1] viruses from previous human infections in dairy workers in California," the health update from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. "This case does not change CDC's assessment of the immediate risk to the general public, which remains low at this time," the agency previously stated. Meanwhile, California health officials also reported last month that their investigation into how the child may have been exposed to bird flu is continuing. The child received flu antivirals and has since recovered. Richard Webby, a virologist at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital who studies influenza, said it is unlikely that community spread explains the California case. Instead, other animals that could have come into contact with the virus, such as cats, dogs or rodents, might be contributing to its spread. In the California case, no person-to-person spread of the virus has been detected and the child's family members all tested negative. Bird flu has been spreading in poultry since 2022, and cases in dairy cows began to crop up in March. The virus was discovered in a pig for the first time earlier this year. Bird flu infections in peoplenearly all among farmworkershave now been confirmed in 10 states. California accounts for the largest share of human bird flu cases in the country, with 37 confirmed infections. Washington has recorded 11 cases, and Colorado 10, CDC data shows. In the United States, more than 915 dairy herds in 16 states have been infected since the outbreak in dairy cows was first confirmed last spring. Avian influenza has been spreading in wild and domestic birds in the United States for several years. "We should be very concerned at this point," Dr. James Lawler, co-director of the University of Nebraska's Global Center for Health Security, told the New York Times. "Nobody should be hitting the panic button yet, but we should really be devoting a lot of resources into figuring out what's going on." More information: The CDC has more on bird flu. 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Greater Cincinnati is now enveloped in a heavy blanket of snow thanks to Winter Storm Blair, which deposited more than 11 inches of snow in some areas of the region. Among those most affected? Probably the countless dog-owners who can't walk their pups without traveling through cold temps and snowy sidewalks. Do you have a pup in need of somewhere to burn energy amid the less-than-stellar outdoor conditions? Several places have in-store pet policies that allow your furry friend to do just that (PetSmart allows dogs, cats, rabbits, pot-bellied pigs and sugar gliders, just to name a few). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a list of pet-friendly stores you can take your dog or cat or sugar glider for a snow-less stroll. Where to take your dog for an indoor walk during the cold weather PetSmart PetSmart allows the following pets inside its stores: dogs, cats, birds, small animals and reptiles sold in-store, such as hamsters and guinea pigs, other non-venomous reptiles, ferrets, rabbits, sugar gliders and pot-bellied pigs. Check out these PetSmart locations in Greater Cincinnati: 10164 Colerain Ave., Colerain Township. 650 Eastgate South Drive, Union Township. 1060 Hansel Ave., Florence. 156 Pavilion Parkway, Newport. 3401 Alamo Ave., Oakley. 6068 Glenway Ave., Westwood. PetSmart allows the following pets inside its stores: dogs, cats, birds, small animals and reptiles sold in-store, such as hamsters and guinea pigs, other non-venomous reptiles, ferrets, rabbits, sugar gliders and pot-bellied pigs. Petco Petco allows any domesticated, licensed and vaccinated animals in its stores. All pets are required to wear a leash and/or be properly restrained in-store. Check out these Petco locations in Greater Cincinnati: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5453 North Bend Road, Colerain Township. 575 Clock Tower Way, Crescent Springs. 8525 Winton Road, Finneytown. 7769 Five Mile Road, Sherwood. Pet Wants Pet Wants allows pets inside its stores as long as they're restrained by a carrier or leash. There are four Pet Wants locations in Greater Cincinnati. 9709 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash. 1813 Pleasant St., Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine. 3797 Shady Lane, North Bend. 1409 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine. Michaels Most Michaels locations allow properly-restrained pets in their stores. It is best to call your local store to double-check before bringing your furry friend to your visit. Here are some Michaels locations in Greater Cincinnati: 7800 Montgomery Road Kenwood Square, Kenwood. 158 Pavilion Parkway, Newport. 9657 Colerain Ave., Northgate. 6030 Glenway Ave., Western Hills Plaza, Westwood. 700 Eastgate S Drive #100a, Union Township. Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack Most Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack locations allow properly-restrained pets in their stores. It is best to call your local store to double-check before bringing your furry friend to your visit. Check out these local Nordstrom Rack locations: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 7801 Montgomery Road, Kenwood (Nordstrom). 5800 Deerfield Blvd., Mason. 2692 Madison Road, Norwood. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Pet-friendly stores to walk your dog in Cincinnati this winter (WSPA) With new apps that pop up every day, its hard for parents to keep track of what might be harmful to their teens. In this Consumer Exclusive, 7NEWS Here to Help got expert advice and some candid insight from an Upstate teenager on what parents need to know. The endless and enticing array of apps are all in good fun until they are not. But, dont take our word for it. 16-year-old Reece, whose parents prefer we not use his last name, has a candid take on how some apps can leave teens vulnerable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like on Snapchat, in particular, all the time Ill get added by some random person, I dont know who they are, Reece said. While Snapchat, Tik Tok and Instagram dominate the news when it comes to apps and teens, Reece said its the ones parents havent heard of that can be most dangerous. Local teen advice: Watch out for WIZZ If you want to go onto WIZZ, I could go on right now and probably find multiple people who would come to my house to interact with me in multiple different ways. And its disgusting and its strange but its true. I can genuinely in 30 minutes have someone at my house, Reece said. WIZZ is a meetup app that claims it is transforming how young people connect, share, and grow together, on its homepage. A lot of kids will use it to find other people that they would like to interact within an inappropriate manner. Ive heard of a lot of people who go on there just to find people to hook up with and they are underage, Reece said. Top 21 apps parents should know about Law enforcement agencies throughout the nation have released a top 21 list of apps parents should know about. Some specialize in social media, others specifically dating, but what most share in common are the messaging features that allow teens to connect with strangers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also the type of apps that act as a vault, where teens can hide content leaving parents locked out of hidden media. Calculator is one of several secret apps used to hide photos, videos files and browser history. The app store is full of dozens more. Rick Floyd, the head of Information Security with the Greenville County School district, said the key message is parents need to monitor their kids phones. When Im talking with children and ask how many of you have communicated with a stranger playing games on the apps, almost every child in the school that has that app, and admits to having that app, raises their hand, and its scary, Floyd said. Monitoring methods Whether your teen has an Apple or Android, there are no-cost parental controls, as long as your teen doesnt change the settings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apple: Utilize Screen Time features on iPhones to set app limits, schedule downtime and see usage reports Android: Use Google Family Link to manage app access, set screen time limits and monitor location When it comes to parental control apps, here are some options: Bark: Scans texts, social media, emails, and web browsing activity across multiple platforms to identify potential issues Qustodio: Offers comprehensive monitoring features like app blocking, time limits, and website filtering mSpy: Tracks calls, texts, location, and app usage with detailed reporting The companys Chief Parenting Officer, Titanya Jordan, said they can track which apps are most concerning. In 2023 we analyzed over 5.6 billion data points and found consistently the top most dangerous apps for children included the ones theyre using all the time, right, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Discord Spotify, Tumbler, WhatsApp, the list goes on and on and on, Jordan said. A few more apps on the radar Of all the apps on teenagers phones, Jordan said by far the most concerning is KIK which allows anyone to contact and direct message your child and seems to attract child predators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kik is a cesspool. It is horrific. As someone who has gone undercover as a child online, I will tell you Kik is the first place I go to find the bad people and the bad things, Jordan said. Reece added Discord is another one to watch. He uses it to connect with gamers but said predators have been known to lurk in chatrooms. Still, Reece is quick to point out, that any app with a messaging feature can leave teens vulnerable, so while some are worse than others, deleting a few apps may not be as effective as teaching teens how to avoid trouble online. He also cautions parents against exerting too much parental control, since hes seen that backfire with peers who sneak behind parents backs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At some point in your life everybody who uses these apps will experience something dangerous and if you cant handle that situation, if youre not educated on how to handle that situation its going to go poorly, Reece 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 WSPA 7NEWS. There is a plausible theory of the case for the dramatic rise in illiberal, speech-stultifying wokeness in America beginning a dozen or so years ago: that it's largely a bottom-up, millennial affair. "In late 2013," Greg Lukianoff, president of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), explained in Reason's January 2022 issue, "there was an explosion in censorship that was student-led.The generation hitting campuses in 2013 had been educated by the graduates ofactivist education schools. In some cases they were literally the children of the students who had pushed for (or at least were OK with) speech codes in the '80s and '90s." Tuesday's 10-year anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo massacrewhen a dozen staffers of the satirical antiauthoritarian weekly, including some of France's most beloved cartoonists, were gunned down by Islamists claiming offense at the depiction and mockery of their religion's prophetis a timely reminder that the West's free speech knees got wobbly long before the millennials hit middle school. And it was political leaders, not stinky college kids, who led the retreat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The late Jimmy Carter was a noteworthy case in point. On March 4, 1989, less than three weeks after the Ayatollah Khomeini placed a million-dollar bounty on the head of author Salman Rushdie for the supposed blasphemy of critically depicting Muhammad in the novel The Satanic Verses, Carter, less than a decade out of the White House, authored a remarkably awful New York Times op-ed under the headline "Rushdie's Book Is an Insult." "While Rushdie's First Amendment freedoms are important," Carter to-be-sure'd, "we have tended to promote him and his book with little acknowledgment that it is a direct insult to those millions of Moslems whose sacred beliefs have been violated and are suffering in restrained silence the added embarrassment of the Ayatollah's irresponsibility. This is the kind of intercultural wound that is difficult to heal." Thus was introduced an almost impressive number of moral and rhetorical sleights of hand that have since the fatwa bedeviled liberalism's discourse in the face of direct murderous threats: the unconvincing throat-clear, the literary/social criticism prompted not by intellectual curiosity but by physical violence, the touristic and condescending assumption of blanket offense, the unidirectional sacralization of "beliefs," the euphemistic downplaying of the heckler's veto ("irresponsibility"?), followed quickly by the metaphorical conflation of dominant-culture expression with marginalized-culture bodily injury. You can read every single one of these tricks in the hideous 2015 petition signed by 145 members of PEN America protesting the literary/free speech organization's bestowment of its Freedom of Expression Courage Award to the surviving staffers of Charlie Hebdo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We do not believe in censoring expression," the undersigned throat-cleared, before the big But: However, there is a critical difference between staunchly supporting expression that violates the acceptable, and enthusiastically rewarding such expression. In the aftermath of the attacks, Charlie Hebdo's cartoons were characterized as satire and "equal opportunity offense," and the magazine seems to be entirely sincere in its anarchic expressions of disdain toward organized religion. But in an unequal society, equal opportunity offense does not have an equal effect. Power and prestige are elements that must be recognized in considering almost any form of discourse, including satire. The inequities between the person holding the pen and the subject fixed on paper by that pen cannot, and must not, be ignored. To the section of the French population that is already marginalized, embattled, and victimized, a population that is shaped by the legacy of France's various colonial enterprises, and that contains a large percentage of devout Muslims, Charlie Hebdo's cartoons of the Prophet must be seen as being intended to cause further humiliation and suffering. Carteresque reaction to the fatwa was a needle-scratch across the vinyl of liberalism, announcing a new, bad era for the culture of free speech. "In the end the Rushdie affair showed us graphically two things, one that we already knew and one that we did not know at all," wrote Jonathan Rauch in a 1993 Reason cover story, which was an excerpt from his classic book Kindly Inquisitors: The New Attacks on Free Thought. "What we already knew was that fundamentalismand not just religious fundamentalism but any fundamentalist system for settling differences of opinionis the enemy of free thought. More frightening was what we had not known: Western intellectuals did not have a clear answer to the challenge that Khomeini set before them." What a post-presidency Carter had in common with the anti-intellectuals of PEN was a self-righteous combination of intersectionality-ranked empathy (privileging and ennobling complaints based on the downtroddenness of the complainants), and official powerlessness. Teju Cole may have some cache on the Upper West Side, but he's not exactly out there making foreign policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those who do hold the awesome responsibility of harnessing U.S. power have over the past 35 years viewed Islamicist-provoking expression as something between annoyance and threat. President George H.W. Bush, as Rauch pointed out, greeted the fatwa with "a long week of silence" until finally saying, "unimpressively, that the death threat was 'deeply offensive.'" The administration of Bush's son reacted to the murderous 2006 rampages over Danish newspapers' publication of Muhammad cartoons by stating that, "Anti-Muslim images are as unacceptable as anti-Semitic images." Sen. Lindsey Graham (RS.C.) spoke for D.C. interventionists everywhere in 2011 when saying, about the Quran-burning Florida pastor Terry Jones, "I wish we could find a way to hold people accountable. Free speech is a great idea, but we're in a war." That's the Republican way of barely stomaching allegedly blasphemous American free speech. The Democratic variant, which until now has been far more potent, combines that imperial irritation with an additional nod toward Carter/PEN intersectionality. The result has been some gruesomely illiberal speech-scapegoatingincluding of Charlie Hebdo. In 2012before the massacre, but after the 2011 firebombing in response to a Muhammad coverthenWhite House press secretary Jay Carney reacted to news of more Charlie Hebdo caricaturing by saying, "Obviously, we have questions about the judgment of publishing something like this. We know that these images will be deeply offensive to many and have the potential to be inflammatory." In October 2015, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton testified to Congress that Charlie Hebdo's cartoons "sparked" the murderous violence against it, an inapt metaphor (the word you are looking for is kindling) whose moral rot can perhaps be best detected by substituting assassination for rape, cartoon content for skirt length. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One month later, after the Islamicist massacre of 129 concertgoers at the Bataclan in Paris, thenSecretary of State John Kerry asserted: "There's something different about what happened from Charlie Hebdo, and I think everybody would feel that. There was a sort of particularized focus and perhaps even a legitimacy in terms ofnot a legitimacy, but a rationale that you could attach yourself to somehow and say, 'OK, they're really angry because of this and that.' This Friday was absolutely indiscriminate." The most insistent Democratic blame on content creators for far-flung violence came with the September 11, 2012, killing of four U.S. servicemen in Benghazi, Libya, which the administration serially claimed was "sparked" by a straight-to-YouTube video called Innocence of Muslims shot by some rando in Cerritos, California. "The United States deplores any intentional effort to denigrate the religious beliefs of others," Clinton said while U.S. diplomatic buildings were still on fire. On September 13, she added, "Let me state very clearlyand I hope it is obviousthat the United States government had absolutely nothing to do with this video. We absolutely reject its content and message.To us, to me personally, this video is disgusting and reprehensible. It appears to have a deeply cynical purpose: to denigrate a great religion and to provoke rage." Then, on September 25, 2012, President Barack Obama made a stunning speech at the United Nations General Assembly telling the violent mobs that their sense of insult was not just understandable, but correct: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the last two weeksa crude and disgusting video sparked outrage throughout the Muslim world. I have made it clear that the United States government had nothing to do with this video, and I believe its message must be rejected by all who respect our common humanity. It is an insult not only to Muslims, but to America as wellfor as the city outside these walls makes clear, we are a country that has welcomed people of every race and religion. We are home to Muslims who worship across our country. We not only respect the freedom of religionwe have laws that protect individuals from being harmed because of how they look or what they believe. We understand why people take offense to this video because millions of our citizens are among them. The future must not belong to those who slander the prophet of Islam. Yet to be credible, those who condemn that slander must also condemn the hate we see when the image of Jesus Christ is desecrated, churches are destroyed, or the Holocaust is denied. Let us condemn incitement against Sufi Muslims, and Shiite pilgrims. It is moderately heartening to see France giving Charlie Hebdo the somber commemoration it deserves. The post-election culture of speech in America feels somewhat looser, even if the preliminary indications from the incoming administration are worrying. But if the project of free inquiry is to stem its long backslide, it cannot depend on the employees, millennial or otherwise, of cultural and intellectual institutions, likely as they are even on this day to thumb-suck over the "thorny debates around the limits of satire and religious tolerance." And the culture of free speech sure as hell is not going to be strengthened by any goddamned politician. The post Top-Down Political Cowardice Helped Make Charlie Hebdo a Lonely Target appeared first on Reason.com. A lack of international leadership, President-elect Donald Trump's second term and AI all made the list of the biggest risks the world faces in 2025, according to the Eurasia Group, which is a leading geopolitical risk and consulting firm. Below is more on this year's list of the top risks for 2025. "G-Zero Wins" tops list The top concern is what's called "the G-Zero Wins," an idea that the world could be in an era without leaders on the international stage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's return to the law of the jungle where the powerful do what they will and the weak do what they must and no one is really protecting them," said Ian Bremmer, the president and founder of the Eurasia Group, on "CBS Mornings." According to Bremmer, a "G-Zero" world would align with an American-first world. "The Americans are not saying we want to be the global leader. They're saying we want to set rules that benefit us and we're going to go and talk to all of those leaders and we'll put tariffs on them if we have to. We'll hit them hard unless they do what we want." Trump's presidency Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Donald Trump's return to office, which is less than two weeks away, also made the list. "It's not that he's going to fail, it's more that he has consolidated so much more power this time around than in 2017," Bremmer said. "All of the people around him are directly loyal to Trump It's Trump's way or the highway." While not on the list, Bremmer also discussed Elon Musk and his impact. Although he is not an elected leader, Musk is a close ally of Trump and has millions of followers on social media. "He's the one out there with 200 million followers, saying that the U.K. government has to be overthrown, that the AFD they should be in charge of Germany. American allies are panicked about this," he said. "What they can do could include actually putting some restraints on Twitter/X, but at the same time, they're deeply concerned, 'Well if he's that close to Trump, is that going to affect our relationship?'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AI makes list again Artificial Intelligence is a returning risk, according to Eurasia Group's list. Last year, AI cracked the top five risks, while this year, it sits at number eight. Bremmer called AI "fantastic technology," but warned "we are not regulating it in a way that is keeping up with the innovation." Top 10 risks in 2025 Here's a list of the Eurasia Group's top risks for 2025 in the group's words: The G-Zero winsRule of DonU.S.-China breakdownTrumponomicsRussia still rogueIran on the ropesBeggar thy worldAI unboundUngoverned spacesMexican standoff Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada What D.C. has planned to honor Jimmy Carter How Jimmy Carter's family is honoring the former president in D.C. CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) Even though the worst of this seasons first major winter storm has come and gone, cold temperatures linger, and people continue to clean up after Sundays snowfall. A lot of the winter weather led to cars stuck in ditches and law enforcement responding to several crashes. State Police want everyone to drive safely and slowly; tow truck operators are sending the same message, especially after clearing countless accidents on Monday. Safe winter driving tips from Illinois State Police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt too bad till [Sunday] mid-afternoon, evening. Thats when we started having the slide-offs, Cody Durbin, a tow truck driver with Tatmans Towing, said. Glen Scott, a driver from Tennessee, was in the Champaign-Urbana area visiting his daughter when he was in an accident on I-57 South near the Curtis Road exit in Champaign. I hit a patch of dry ice as the plows were coming from the other way, Scott described. They were throwing the dust across and I guess the wind hit my trailer, the trailer rocked and slid to the guardrail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sliding off the road and ending in a ditch was the last thing he expected while in Central Illinois. It wasnt a high-speed thing, it just looked messy, he said. It took Durbin about an hour and a half to get the SUV and trailer out of the ditch. In those 90 minutes, Scott was helping out as well and saw four other cars slide off, ending in a similar position as him. Sounds like theres quite a few slide-offs still that were going to have to work with, Durbin added. Meanwhile, Scott wants to make sure no one else ends up where he did. Stay safe out here in the cold and dont be in a hurry to get there. I wasnt even speeding and I saw them come by here flying, the driver said. You dont have to be going that fast to have an accident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 6 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 5, and 6 a.m. on the 6th, State Police report more than 200 accidents across Central Illinois. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. STATE LINE, Miss. (WKRG) The Town of State Line is offering up to $15,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for a New Years Day robbery turned triple homicide. Bond set for Daphne teen in New Years Day homicide This still from surveillance footage shows a shooting that led to a triple homicide, according to the Greene County Sheriffs Office. According to a Facebook post from the town, anyone with information can contact the Greene County Sheriffs Office at 601-394-2341 about the robbery-triple homicide incident that resulted in the deaths of Rhonda Denson, Lester Campbell and Jason Thornton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Greene County Chief Deputy Brad Warrick: Thornton, a customer, was gunned down in the parking lot and was stripped of his wallet. Denson, the gas station manager, opened the register, yet she was still shot to death. Densons boyfriend, Lester Campbell, was shot and killed soon after grabbing a coffee from inside the store. The Town of State Line specified the reward is not affiliated with any Crime Stoppers program and will be administered directly from the town. The Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers are offering their own reward of up to $10,000, funded jointly with Clark Oil Company. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two Seminole County schools were placed on lockdown on Monday afternoon after a parent in the car line thought she saw a group of four kids with a gun, the Altamonte Springs Police Department said. Forest City Elementary and Lake Brantley High were placed on a Code Red that lasted approximately 32 minutes after a report of a possible weapon near campus, according to Seminole County Public Schools. Officials said, as per safety protocols, the schools immediately went into a Code Red so law enforcement could investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: 1st bird flu death in the US reported in Louisiana Police found students who were playing with a toy Orbeez gun, which is not a weapon, officials added. The lockdown has been lifted and regular activities have resumed. Read: Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez placed into Brady System, state attorney says The following messages were sent to the families of both schools. This afternoon, Forest City Elementary and Lake Brantley High were placed on a brief Code Red due to students in the area near campus using a toy Orbeez gun. Our law enforcement partners immediately placed both schools on Code Red out of an abundance of caution to investigate. We are thankful for the quick response of law enforcement and the cooperation of students, staff, and families while we waited for the all-clear which has now been received. Law enforcement has confirmed this was a toy Orbeez gun and not an actual weapon, however, we will always take any potential threat seriously. Thank you for your patience as we worked to resolve this situation. It takes all of us working together to keep our school a safe and vibrant place of learning. Seminole County Public Schools Read: Local non-profit offer free housing for young adults facing homelessness Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. (FOX40.COM) Sutter County officials provided more details on Monday about the death of an 11-year-old boy whose body was found inside a mobile home and the arrest of his mother as a suspect. Sheriff Brandon Barnes said at a news conference that deputies responded at about 10 a.m. on Sunday to a mobile home park near Meridian and Pass Roads, about 20 miles west of Yuba City and 60 miles north of Sacramento. Second body found in Thermalito Afterbay confirmed to be that of Wesley Cornett Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 911 call had reportedly come from the park manager to report a resident arguing with the childs mother, who has been identified as Meagan Dixon. Neighbors who have spoken with local authorities reportedly described Dixon as having a drug-induced or manic episode, according to Barnes. Fire crews who responded to the call discovered the child deceased inside the mobile home that he, his mother and stepfather lived in. Barnes said it was a tragic death, and that it appeared that he had been deceased for several days. South Sacramento taco stand employee tackles armed robber Although officials found evidence that could possibly help determine the manner of death, the Sutter County officials will await results from the Placer County Coroners Office, which contracts with Sutter County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnes said that three dogs were also found dead on the property, with one of them in the trailer, and that exams will be performed on them as well. Dixon is facing charges of homicide and child endangerment and is being held on $1 million bail. Barnes said that Dixon has been talking with investigators, but has not provided a lot in terms of an emotional response. According to Barnes, neighbors described the child as home-schooled and that he would routinely come out to play, but that he hadnt been seen for several days, which motivated a neighbor to speak with his mother, which became a dispute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The childs stepfather has been away for several weeks visiting family and is not a person of interest in the case, and the childs biological father has not been an active participant in many, many years, Barnes said. Dixon has a court appearance scheduled for Tuesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Kevin OLearys countrymen are fed up with his supposed dealmaking to merge the U.S. and Canada. Canadians have come out en masse to clown the Montreal nativewho has since ditched the great white north for sunny Miami Beachover his efforts to combine his homeland with his adopted nation, as Donald Trump has recently proposed doing. The outrage came after Trump posted to Truth Social that many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State, with some determining the president-elect must have reached such a conclusion after meeting with the former Shark Tank star this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No Canadian besides that sack of s--t Kevin OLeary from Shark Tank supports this, wrote one user on X, including a screenshot to Trumps post. Another chimed in: I can actually HEAR Kevin OLeary behind this. That motherf---ing traitor. A third Canadian posted a gif that was meant to virtually flick OLeary off. Message for Kevin OLeary. Nobody elected you to speak for us, the post added. Message for Kevin OLeary. Nobody elected you to speak for us pic.twitter.com/xz135PJLPN Mary (@honestyquest) January 6, 2025 OLeary, 70, said late last month that a trip to Canada over the holidays revealed more than half of the nation of 40 million were supposedly interested in a North American merger of sorts. Canadians over the holidaysthe last two dayshave been talking about this, OLeary told Fox Business in December. They want to hear more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OLeary said he was headed to Mar-a-Lago to talk discuss a potential deal with Trump, who has repeatedly trolled Canadaand its now-former Prime Minister Justin Trudeauabout this prospect. Trudeau, who announced his resignation Monday, took to social media Tuesday to make clear that Canada isand will remainfully autonomous. There isnt a snowballs chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States, he wrote Tuesday. OLeary has suggested that Canada may benefit from striking an agreement with the U.S. that was akin to the European Union. This would include a common currency and defense partnership, he said as recently as Monday on Fox News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A clip of him repeating this wish was shared on X and, like elsewhere, OLearys comments were scrutinized by his countrymen. FYI: Kevin O'Leary is despised in Canada he is an absolute clown Art Martin (@gartmartin9) January 6, 2025 Kevin OLeary is despised in Canada, read one reply with over 1,000 likes. He is an absolute clown. There is some data to back up claims that OLeary is not the best barometer for what the average Canadian thinks. The entrepreneur, whos worth $400 million and claims to be in talks to purchase TikToks U.S. assets with other businessman, was soundly rejected by voters when he ran for the leadership of the Canadian Conservative Party in 2017 and won just one percent of the vote. New York City police have arrested and charged a transgender woman in connection to the deadly stabbing of a U.S. Postal Service worker. According to police, the fatal incident began when the suspect and victim got into an verbal altercation in a Harlem deli on Jan. 2. Ray Hodges, 36, had just delivered a package and decided to take a break and order food at a local deli, according to the New York Post. But while ordering his food at the counter, Jaia Cruz, allegedly walked in and interrupted him, according to a witnesses. He [Hodges] was in the store counting his money to check how much he had to order. She [Cruz] came in after him and... she put her bags by the coffee machine and she came to order, an anonymous employee told The Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From there, the two started arguing and were eventually separated by deli workers. Things quickly escalated, however, when 24-year-old Cruz allegedly spit in Hodges face, according to the New York Post. I was in the middle, and he was in front of me and she came from behind me and spit in his face, the deli worker said. That got him mad so he threw the bottle of lemon juice at her. According to the witness, thats when Cruz pulled out a knife and lunged at the man. Hodge was stabbed multiple times in the neck, chest, and stomach, according to ABC News. The postal worker collapsed with the knife by his side, Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Clerkin said during Cruzs court appearance. When police arrived, Cruz had already fled the scene. Authorities later found her and brought her into custody. Hodges was brought to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Post, Cruz was previously arrested five times for violent offenses including several knife attacks. The 24-year-old has now been charged with Hodges murder, according to USA Today. Flip Morales, a longtime friend of Hodges, told the Daily News his friend was an amazing person and a great father, who was always a working man. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 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: Denture use may help protect against cognitive decline in older adults with partial tooth loss, according to a study published in Aging Medicine. Xiang Qi, Ph.D., R.N., from the New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing in New York City, and colleagues investigated the relationship between denture use and cognitive decline among Chinese older adults with tooth loss. The analysis included 27,708 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older participating in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (2008 to 2018). The researchers found that compared with non-denture users, dentate participants who used dentures had significantly better baseline cognitive function (, 1.032) and a significantly slower annual decline in cognitive function (, 0.127). Denture use was significantly associated with higher baseline cognitive function (, 3.063) but not with the rate of cognitive decline (, 0.011) in edentulous participants. Results were similar across subgroups of dentate participants with various degrees of missing teeth. "This study highlights the potential importance of prosthodontic rehabilitation in preserving cognitive health," the authors write. "Further research is needed to establish a causal relationship between denture use and cognitive function." One author disclosed being a member of Aging Medicine's editorial board. More information: Xiang Qi et al, Denture use and a slower rate of cognitive decline among older adults with partial tooth loss in China: A 10year prospective cohort study, Aging Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1002/agm2.12383 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved. ST. LOUIS Despite delays and cancellations, some travelers are just rolling with the punches at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. By Monday afternoon, workers were clearing sidewalks and pathways for passengers coming in and out of the airport. I checked my flights status this morning, and it said On Time, said Tad Desai, who was heading to Texas. I couldnt believe it. I had to pack really quick because I thought Id have to leave tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crystal Schwoeppe, who was going to Long Beach, also expected delays. But its on time, so Im happy about that, she said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now FOX 2 Weather Overall, the airport reported 8.5 inches of snow from the storm, which stopped many in their tracks from Kansas City to Washington, D.C., with much of the country from Missouri to Virginia hit with snowfall. I had a lot of trouble, said Selena Brown, whose trip to Phoenix has been postponed for a day. Two cancelations. This is the third cancellation. So, hopefully, Ill be there tomorrow evening. Those stuck inside the terminal sought important real estate near power outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive got my Kindle for reading and my phone charging, so Im ready for the wait, said Cassandra Knuffman, waiting on a flight to North Carolina. The less fortunate have been saddled with delays and reroutes, with some having to return to the airport a day later to get their bags. We had to fly into Denver, said Christopher Lyles, who returned home from San Francisco on Sunday. They rerouted us. We got to Denver; they canceled our flights. We finally flew into St. Louis, and once we got here, it was hell in short. Once we got here, there was nobody here. They had shut down the airport. Lyles finally got his luggage by 3 p.m. Monday. 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 2. Trees lie on the ground at the site where a fatal wildfire began on Oct. 5 northwest of Ray, North Dakota. Trees hitting power lines started the fire, the State Fire Marshal determined. (Photo courtesy of North Dakota Insurance Department) High winds caused tree limbs to fall onto power lines, starting a wildfire in October that killed two men, the North Dakota State Fire Marshal said in a report released Monday. The Oct. 5-6 fire near Ray was one of several wildfires that broke out during dry, windy and warm conditions in northwest North Dakota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edgar Coppersmith, 47, of Tioga, and Johannes Nicolaas Van Eeden, 26, of South Africa, were killed in the fire that broke out at 12243 72nd St. NW, Alamo. Van Eeden was found in a vehicle at 120th Avenue and 66th Street, northwest of Ray. Coppersmith was found at a different location with severe injuries and was flown to Colorado, where he died. The fire was discovered about 3 p.m. Oct. 5 with flames already 3 to 5 feet high when it was reported minutes later. Firefighters from the Ray Fire Department arrived by 3:15 p.m. The report said winds exceeding 60 mph caused a tree about 12 feet from a power line to fall onto the line. The live wire then sparked a fire that spread through dry grass, field stubble and trees. Northwest winds pushed the fire southeast toward Ray. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The distribution line was owned by Mountrail-Williams Electric Co-op. Rural electrical cooperatives in McKenzie and Williams counties reported $3.7 million in damage from fire, leading to a presidential disaster declaration. The Ray-area fire burned more than 30,000 acres over two days before it was under control about 4:17 p.m. on Oct. 6. Three structures burned, but none where the fire started. The report said the area had been under severe to moderate drought conditions and a statewide fire emergency was declared Oct. 4, the day before the fire broke out. A total of 190 fires burned 126,273 acres in North Dakota in October, according to the state Department of Emergency Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state fire marshal has ruled that natural gas flares from oil wells contributed to starting two of the fires, along with the high winds and dry vegetation. An email from the North Dakota Insurance Department said a report for a fire near Zahl was still being finalized but the cause for that fire was undetermined. The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms also are investigating fires. A trial opened Tuesday for a man charged with starting a fire inside the Lake County Jails lobby on June 5, 2023. Terrance Craig, 42, of Ford Heights, Illinois, is charged with two counts of arson and one count of intimidation. Deputy Prosecutor Gary Marek began opening arguments by acknowledging to jurors that the Lake County Sheriffs Department originally charged the wrong man. However, lawyers had differing interpretations for what went wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marek said at least two witnesses identified the wrong man in a photo lineup. Witnesses are human beings, he said. They make mistakes. A video showed a man dumping liquid from a container, then lighting a match. Three employees behind the glass partition quickly ran deeper into the building and no one was hurt. It could have been much worse, Marek said. Hundreds of inmates and cops were in the building. The damage was over $5,000, he said. Craig was arrested after he showed up at the Hammond Police Department talking unhinged in the same way the arsonist had. He appeared to be wearing the same hat from the video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense lawyer Benjamin Murphy put the blame on the investigation. The fire wasnt as extensive as prosecutors made out, he argued. There was no one in the lobby. The employees escaped unharmed. The fire lasted around 90 seconds, he said. It almost extinguished on its own. The suspect left before officers arrived. Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez turned to the media after identifying the initial suspect. Within a few days, they charged him. Lake County Sheriffs Department Detective Kris Adams never talked to the original suspect, Murphy argued. The Post-Tribune is not identifying him. Both men were Black. The original suspect was 26 far younger and appeared to have dyed caramel brown hair and a dyed thin goatee in a mugshot, while Craig had black hair and a full beard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Craig showed up on June 12, 2023, at the Hammond Police Station. He was telling officers he had a chip in his brain and former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Gov. Eric Holcomb wanted to kill him. Charging documents state he admitted he started the jail fire. Prosecutors dismissed the original case and charged Craig. What did the detective do to find out where either man was that day, Murphy asked jurors. Nothing, he argued. Hammond Police Sgt. Yon Fletcher testified he was called to the police station on June 12, 2023, to deal with Craig, who showed up. A video depicted Craig sitting on the floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among other ramblings, he said he set the jail on fire, Fletcher said. I just want the state to leave mealone, Craig appears to yell. They got a chip in my head. Obviously he has mental issues, Murphy told Fletcher on cross-examination. Laura Lunkes-Wilson said she worked as a Lake County Sheriffs Department secretary that day when a man approached her window. He had a large pail filled with liquid. A co-worker told him to not do something. Next thing I knew, the jail lobby was on fire, she said. It was only a 2- or 3-minute interaction, she later told Murphy. She picked the original suspect in a photo lineup. In the second photo lineup, she picked Craig. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything happened so fast, Lunkes-Wilson said. I really didnt get a good look at the gentlemans face. Craig was in a booking photo lineup, but no witnesses identified him, Martinez previously said in a statement. The picture was dated and he had lost weight in his face, changing his appearance, the sheriff said. New intelligence that detectives got a few days after Tinley Park Police arrested the original suspect shifted the case toward Craig. I believe the process worked as it should in this case, and I am proud of the work of our detectives in establishing Terrance Craig as the new primary suspect, Martinez said. They continue to follow up on leads, which is something they do with every case. No law enforcement agency wants to arrest the wrong person for a crime, he said. Its part of the normal investigative process that we look for additional information and try to verify that information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the charging affidavit, Craig appeared disjointed and angry at the state of Indiana, made statements about the governor, a prior governor, and U.S. President. Court records allege he took a milk jug full of gasoline into the lobby, pouring it on the floor. He lit it on fire, then ran out. After information on the case was released on social media and to multiple media outlets, a witness told police Craig was recently released from prison for attempted murder and had threatened her and her family. A check of Indiana and Cook County records showed a criminal record, but no attempted murder case against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Hammond Police officer told investigators Craig was there when he was called back to the station on June 12 for a suspicious person. Craig gave his name and said he set the fire. As he spoke loudly, he was told to quiet down. He responded he was going to do whatever it took to go to jail. Officers found an ice pick when they patted him down. Craig said he would take it with him to jail. His speech was disjointed, mentioning a hatred and distrust of the state of Indiana, Lake County Jail and political figures, just like the man who set the fire. I wouldnt have come out here if they wouldnt have been (messing) with me, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Craig alleged Holcomb, Pence and ex-Gov. Mitch Daniels were after him. A judge and lawyer were also plotting against him. Several people were going down on a RICO charge, someone put a chip in his head and he had a box inside him beating his brain and heart. Craig appeared to have a similar Motor City hat, which the suspect wore on camera before he fled. mcolias@post-trib.com In October, the Rappahannock Tribe a federally recognized tribe in Virginia became the first U.S. tribe to safeguard rights of nature for a state river in its constitution, Mongabay reported. This unprecedented tribal constitutional amendment establishes the Rappahannock River's legal entity status and its inherent right to "naturally exist, flourish, regenerate, and evolve," per Mongabay. The Rappahannock River, the longest free-flowing river in the East (approximately 195 miles long), according to American Rivers, is deeply rooted in the tribe's history. According to the tribe's website, 14 tribal villages were built on the northern side of the river. The southern bank served as the tribe's primary hunting ground. The Rappahannock River is "the Mother of [the tribe's] nation, who has provided sustenance to [the] tribe for thousands of years," Rappahannock Tribe Chief Anne Richardson described, per Mongabay. "It is our responsibility to protect her." Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind With the new constitutional amendments, any member of the tribe may launch a civil case, on behalf of the River, against another party. This includes any activity that might threaten the River, including fracking, water contamination by chemicals, or other river activities that may disturb or harm aquatic life. This discourages rash decisions that affect the health of the river, as well as communities that depend on it for livelihood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Writing this right of nature into the tribe's constitution is a testament to the foundational significance of protecting and restoring this vital waterway for the Rappahannock Tribe. Establishing rights of nature is a growing movement worldwide. Ecuador recognized environmental rights of nature in the country's constitution as early as 2008, according to Cornell University. Earlier this year, Aruba proposed a constitutional amendment to grant legal protections to nature. "Thank you Rappahannock Nation!" one user commented on the Mongabay report. "Codifying rights for nature and ending ecocide are necessary to protect Mother Earth." 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. Military reserve members across the Tricare West Region mistakenly were told they must pay monthly premiums of more than $600 to $1,500 to retain their health benefits in 2025. TriWest Healthcare Alliance, the new Tricare contract manager for 26 states, sent letters late last month to an undisclosed number of reservists and their families with updates to their monthly health premiums for 2025. Instead of containing information for the Tricare Reserve program, however, the letters said the service members were enrolled in the Tricare Retired Reserve program, a significantly more costly premium plan for eligible retired reservists under age 60. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Troubled Caisson Unit Makes Appearance at Carter Funeral as Horse-Drawn Services Remain Suspended "Effective Jan. 1, 2025, the government has established new monthly premiums for the Tricare Retired Reserve program as noted below," the letter stated. "$631.26 TRR Member Only Plan; $1,513.04 TRR Member and Family Plan." The 2025 premiums for the Tricare Reserve program are $53.80 a month for a single member and $274.48 for a family. Beneficiaries who contacted Military.com said they had tried to update their payment information with TriWest before receiving the letters but couldn't access the portal to fix their issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Whyyyyyyy did we get this?" asked an Army National Guard spouse in a message to Military.com. "For those on Tricare Reserve Select, TriWest enrolled us in Tricare Retired Reserve, upping the monthly payment by over $1,200. ... Over the past few days, my wife, who is the beneficiary, has been on hold with their phone trees for over 4 hours now and so far [is] unable to talk to anyone," retired Air Force Lt. Col. Jeff Schneider said in an email. TriWest officials did not provide information on the number of members who received the inaccurate information but said in a statement Monday that corrections were emailed Friday to affected beneficiaries and letters containing the right information would be mailed as well. "The letter included wrong information despite the beneficiary being enrolled in the correct plan, which is reflected in all applicable systems," according to the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The error follows a series of challenges facing roughly 4.5 million patients in the 26-state Tricare West Region following a changeover in regional contract managers on Jan. 1. 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. In early December, shortly after TriWest published its list of network providers, patients began raising concerns that their doctors under the old contractor, Health Net Federal Services, were not in TriWest's network. At the same time, providers reported challenges applying for the network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, as the deadline approached for beneficiaries to update their payment information to TriWest, many encountered website outages and long hold times on the phone. To accommodate the problems, TriWest and Tricare extended the deadline for patients to update their payment information by Jan. 30 for those on Tricare Prime or Tricare Select and by Jan. 15 for other programs. According to TriWest, as of Monday, 59% of those who needed to update their recurring payment information by bank transfer or credit card had done so. "This urgency has generated a higher volume of calls to the call center for payments," TriWest said in its statement. "TriWest is closely monitoring its customer service lines and has implemented a plan to adjust staffing levels quickly to address increase in call volume." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TriWest also said it now offers a menu option that, after 15 minutes on hold, callers can use to keep their place in line and receive a call back. The company said, however, that the quickest way to update patient and payment information is through the beneficiaries portal. "Caring for America's military and veteran communities has been TriWest's sole priority for nearly three decades. We believe there is no more valuable service to be performing for the nation. With a transition of this size and scale, challenges will arise," the statement read. Complaints on Tricare's Facebook page jumped from the low hundreds across several posts before New Year's Day to more than 1,200 as of Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tricare has been monitoring the page and responding to complaints via direct messaging and encouraging beneficiaries to reach out directly through messaging as well. In October, Defense Health Agency officials said TriWest would send letters or emails to beneficiaries announcing the payment update requirement and telling recipients how to do it. It appears, however, that some beneficiaries did not get the correspondence and found out about the need only from emails sent in late November. Beneficiaries nearly immediately started reporting problems updating their information, including incorrect phone numbers and dropped transfers, no callbacks when requested and problems with the website, according to emails received by Military.com. Health care providers also reported communications issues with TriWest, with several saying they received little to no information on applying to become part of the new network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "TriWest has made the new contract extremely challenging for clinicians, making it hard for military members to continue seeing their provider,"Ashley Comegys, a licensed clinical social worker, said in a Facebook reel. TriWest officials say they have a network of nearly 1 million providers. The company is allowing a 90-day network waiver, from Jan. 1 to March 31, that lets beneficiaries see their current providers. After 90 days, if the provider has not been accepted into the network, patients may still see their providers, but there will be associated out-of-network costs. Additionally, TriWest will honor pre-authorizations or referrals from Health Net through the pre-authorization's expiration date or June 30, 2025, whichever comes first. Related: TriWest Wins GAO Decision on $65B Tricare Contract That Covers Half of US (WBRE/WYOU) A man is facing kidnapping charges after police say he lied to them regarding the whereabouts of a 16-year-old girl who was staying with him at a hotel in Luzerne County. State police say Hunter Michael McCaslin, 26, of Sugar Run, told troopers he did not know where the teen was when they interviewed him about her being reported missing. According to police, the mother of the victim originally reported on November 18, 2024, that her 16-year-old daughter was involved in a relationship with McCaslin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man sentenced for stabbing father with kitchen knife According to official documents, the mother then reported her daughter missing from a residence in Colley Township, Sullivan County, on January 2. Troopers say they used cell phone data to ping her location, which came back to the area of the Holiday Inn Express on Route 315 in Plains Township. On January 3, they reviewed security footage from the hotel and said they viewed the victim walking through the lobby with McCaslin, according to court documents. McCaslin has been charged with kidnapping a minor, corruption of minors, and interference with custody of children. 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 PAhomepage.com. There is not "a snowball's chance in hell" that Canada will become the 51st US state, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Trudeau's retort came as Donald Trump continued on Tuesday to taunt the United States' northern neighbour and close ally. Trump has publicly mused for weeks about annexing Canada after he returns to the White House on January 20, and has called Trudeau the "governor" of the "Great State of Canada." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States," Trudeau, who announced his resignation on Monday amid party infighting and growing unpopularity, wrote on X on Tuesday. "Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner." Hours earlier, President-elect Trump said he could use "economic force" to make Canada a state. He made the threat at a rambling press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, in which he also declined to rule out using military force to gain control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, however, said he would not go so far as to deploy the US military against Canada. "Canada and the United States, that would really be something," he said. He continued: "You get rid of the artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better for national security. Don't forget: We basically protect Canada." Trump, a Republican, also said the US doesn't need Canadian vehicle exports because he would "rather make them in Detroit." He also said the US did not need Canadian lumber. After winning the election against Democrat Kamala Harris in November, Trump quickly picked a fight with Ottawa by saying that he would impose a 25% tariff on all products imported from Canada as soon as he took office. He said the tariff would remain in place until Canada cracked down on the flow of drugs across the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudeau resigned on Monday as leader of his Liberal Party and as prime minister, although he will stay at the helm of Canada until his party selects his replacement. Trump responded to the resignation by posting on his Truth Social site: "If Canada merged with the U.S., there would 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!!! There is not "a snowball's chance in hell" that Canada will become the 51st US state, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Trudeau's retort came as Donald Trump continued on Tuesday to taunt the United States' northern neighbour and close ally. Trump has publicly mused for weeks about annexing Canada after he returns to the White House on January 20, and has called Trudeau the "governor" of the "Great State of Canada." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There isn't a snowball's chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States," Trudeau, who announced his resignation on Monday after party squabbles, wrote on X on Tuesday. "Workers and communities in both our countries benefit from being each other's biggest trading and security partner." Hours earlier, President-elect Trump said he could use "economic force" to make Canada a state. He made the threat at a rambling press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, in which he also declined to rule out using military force to gain control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. Trump, however, said he would not go so far as to deploy the US military against Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Canada and the United States, that would really be something," he said. He continued: "You get rid of the artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like and it would also be much better for national security. Don't forget: We basically protect Canada." Trump also said the US doesn't need Canadian vehicle exports because he would "rather make them in Detroit." Donald Trump is somehow still harping on his vanity projects to acquire Greenland and Canada, and every day, the trolling feels more real. In a Truth Social post Monday night, the president-elect published some propaganda to make it seem as if the people of Greenland were completely onboard with his plan to acquire the worlds largest island. I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA, Trump wrote. My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. 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! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not clear that Trumps oldest son has any plans to meet with officials while in Greenland, but its always nice to share your kids vacation plans. Beneath the post, Trump shared the video of an unidentified man in a MAGA hat urging Trump to buy Greenland. We dont want to be colonized by the Danish government anymore, the man said, as he requested a new colonizer. We are the richest nation in the world, and we dont get to use it! Denmarks using us too much, he continued, implying that through purchase, the wealth of Denmark would somehow return to Greenlands small population of 57,000 people and not disappear into the imperialist machine Trump hopes to steer. Greenland has long sought independence from Denmark, and all of Trumps ramblings about buying the place seem to have revitalized that conversation. But that doesnt mean the people of Greenland would have any interest in becoming part of the United States. Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede recently expressed his desire for ownership and control over the island, but reiterated that the country isnt for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, billionaire technocrat Elon Musk cheered Trumps efforts to convince people that Greenland wants to be part of the U.S., writing in a post on X, The people of Greenland should decide their future and I think they want to be part of America! Its worth noting that Musk owns the exact kind of popular opinion machine that might work to generate this kind of sentiment, and Trump has a tendency to turn his tedious trolling into reality through sheer repetition and normalization. Trumps idea to acquire the territory, which is not only of great strategic importance to the U.S. but contains a wealth of natural resources and minerals, isnt popular with everyone. Jim Townsend, a former senior Pentagon official who worked on NATO and Arctic defense policy, told Politico that Trumps statements are resulting in a diplomatic headache. Pissing everybody off by saying were just going to buy them outright really bruises our bilateral relationship with the Danes and more importantly ruins any kind of way for us to work this out with Greenlanders, said Townsend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also doubled down on his outlandish pitch to make Canada the fifty-first state of the U.S. Monday, following the news that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would be resigning. Canadian M.P. Charlie Angus was quick to nip Trumps trolling in the bud. Canada has something called democracy. It means the leader is accountable to Parliament and can be replaced, he wrote. I bet Americans wish they had that now. And convicted sexual abusers dont get to lead our nation. Were decent folk, Angus said. Ps. Button up. Were sending frigid cold your way. love Canada. PALM BEACH, Florida (Reuters) - Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani promised a $20 billion investment in the booming U.S. data center industry in the coming years, he and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday at Trump's home in Palm Beach, Florida. With an election victory largely driven by voters' economic concerns, Trump has doubled down on bolstering investments in domestic industries and proposed higher tariffs on Chinese goods as the U.S. tries to curb China's access to the chips needed for advanced data centers. "We're planning to invest $20 billion and even more than that, if the opportunity in the market allows us," said Sajwani, chairman of Dubai developer DAMAC, at Trump's Mar-a-Lago home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DAMAC owns the Middle East's only Trump-branded golf course in Dubai, which opened in 2017, and the billionaire celebrated the New Year with Trump in Florida. Trump has an affinity for announcements promising economic growth, though such investments do not always pan out. Early in his first term, he announced a $10 billion Foxconn investment in a Wisconsin factory that promised thousands of jobs but was mostly abandoned. Last month Trump and SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son announced the Japanese tech investor would invest $100 billion in the U.S. over the next four years, focused around AI. The introduction of OpenAI's GenAI chatbot ChatGPT in late 2022 kicked off a wave of investment in generative AI technology and the pricey infrastructure required to support it, including power generation and transmission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Microsoft said last week it would spend about $80 billion this fiscal year to ramp up its AI capacity. Restrictions on the export of coveted AI chips used in advanced data centers to China have tightened under the Biden administration, and Trump has nominated China hard-liners to key diplomatic and economic roles in his administration. (Reporting by Steve Holland in Palm Beach, Florida and Arsheeya Bajwa in Bengaluru; Editing by David Gaffen and Arun Koyyur) Press Release January 7, 2025 Demonstrating shared humanity: On the arrival of 300 Afghan nationals in the Philippines Statement of Senator Francis N. Tolentino on the arrival of 300 Afghan nationals in the Philippines For humanitarian reasons, I fully support our government's actions to allow the entry of 300 Afghan nationals individuals who aided American forces and their families composed mostly of children in the Philippines for the processing of their Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) for resettlement in the United States. This initiative is part of Washington's efforts to support former allies following the Taliban's rise to power three years ago. This is also pursuant to an Agreement signed on July 29, 2024 between the Philippines and the United States and ratified by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on September 25, 2024 to temporarily host Afghan refugees while their SIVs are being processed. I commend our government in its decision to strengthen its commitment to international treaties, emphasizing that adherence not only reflects the country's values but also enhances its global standing. Ang mga 300 Afghans po ay persecuted sa kanilang lugar. This representation is in full support of the hosting of the refugees in the Philippines, as a compassionate and solidarity-driven initiative. As a steadfast advocate for the rights of refugees and the broader spectrum of human rights, I cannot stress enough the importance of demonstrating shared humanity by aiding those fleeing violence and persecution. Accepting displaced refugees is the highest standard when it comes to adherence to international human rights commitment. The Philippines has time and again shown its commitment to upholding human rights, with its participation in key international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. We Filipinos have a proud history of extending humanitarian aid to those in need, including Jewish refugees during the era of President Manuel L. Quezon and Vietnamese refugees after the Vietnam War. Recently, we also provided assistance to Rohingya refugees. The Afghan refugees will stay in a US State Department-operated facility for up to 59 days while completing their visa processes. They are allowed to leave only for embassy consular interviews. The US government will support all necessary services for those SIV applicants temporarily in the Philippines, including food, housing, medical care, security and transportation to complete visa processing. Aiding Afghan refugees aligns with international law and reflects the nation's values of compassion and solidarity. Let me stress that human rights are universal, and we must ensure our legal frameworks align with international standards. That said, let us ensure that our 300 Afghan brothers and sisters are treated with dignity and respect. 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 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 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 fluoridea marker of overall exposurechildren'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 litercurrently the World Health Organization's safety limitmay 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. More information: Kyla W. Taylor et al, Fluoride Exposure and Children's IQ Scores, JAMA Pediatrics (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.5542 Bruce P. Lanphear et al, Time to Reassess Systemic Fluoride Exposure, Again, JAMA Pediatrics (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.5549 Steven M. Levy, Caution Needed in Interpreting the Evidence Base on Fluoride and IQ, JAMA Pediatrics (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.5539 Journal information: JAMA Pediatrics 2025 AFP (WKBN) President-elect Donald Trump addressed reporters Tuesday in his first remarks since the election was certified. Read next: Dr. Amy Acton, who helped lead Ohios early pandemic response, joins 2026 governors race The president-elect talked about his vision for the country and announced a new $20 billion business investment in the U.S., which will impact Ohio. Trump was joined at the podium by DAMAC Properties CEO Hussain Sajwani who said that his company intends to invest $20 billion in the U.S. to build new data centers that will employ thousands of workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data centers will support AI and cloud services. States for the proposed venture include Ohio, Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana. No specific locations were released. Trump said the DAMAC Properties investment will occur over a short period of 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 WKBN.com. In rambling remarks delivered Tuesday, a day after he was officially certified as the president-elect, Donald Trump trotted out a luxury real estate developer from Dubai who said he wants to invest in U.S. data centers. Trump then pivoted to other complaints, including the name of the Gulf of Mexico and apparently blaming Hezbollah for the violent pro-Trump mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Hussain Sajwani, an Emirati billionaire and the founder of DAMAC group, spoke briefly at the top of the press conference, telling reporters he intends to invest $20 billion in data centers catering to AI across the U.S. Neither Trump nor Sajwani offered specifics beyond a vague first phase that will take place in Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump took questions from reporters near the end of the roughly hour-long remarks, during which he pledged to make major pardons for people convicted of participating in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Asked if he intends to pardon anyone convicted of violent offenses for their actions that day, Trump dodged instead appearing to blame both the FBI and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group in Lebanon, for the violence. We have to find out about Hezbollah, we have to find out about who, exactly, was in that whole thing, Trump said. Because people that did some bad things were not prosecuted. People that were doing some bad things werent prosecuted, he continued, and people that didnt even walk into the building are in jail right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A HuffPost analysis of Jan. 6 cases found that 83% of those sentenced to at least a year in prison committed acts of violence. This image from U.S. Capitol Police body-worn video shows Jacquelyn Starer, a physician from Massachusetts, striking a police officer in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. Donald Trump suggested Tuesday that Hezbollah was responsible for the violence. U.S. Capitol Police via Associated Press Trump later falsely claimed that the only one who was killed that day was Ashli Babbitt, who was shot while attempting to enter the Speakers Lobby outside the House chamber, where members of Congress were being evacuated. In fact, multiple people died in connection with the pro-Trump attack, including five police officers. The president-elects press conference also included what appeared to be a stream-of-consciousness series of tangents, which included pledging to expedite environmental approval for businesses looking to spend $1 billion or more, and calling America a horrible place because of the time it takes to count votes in a presidential election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also bragged about removing 5,000 U.S. troops from Afghanistan as president while simultaneously voicing outrage at President Joe Bidens ban on oil and gas drilling in federal waters. We had 5,000 people in the Middle East. I took them out, he said. Now ... we have people that I can rely on, but the 625 million acres, people cant realize, thats like the whole ocean. ... Its like, it feels like the whole ocean. Trump then complained about electric heaters, low-flow water fixtures and the operating agreement for the Panama Canal. He declined to say he wouldnt use military force to attempt to take control of the Panama Canal or Greenland. Continuing on that thread, Trump promised to rename the Gulf of Mexico because we do most of the work there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, he said. Related... A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version. Last Gasps Over the next few days we will witness the final death spasms of the efforts to hold Donald Trump accountable to the rule of law. A convicted felon, who was also under other indictment, has never risen to the presidency before. We are deep into uncharted waters, and its unclear whether the final skirmishes over how the cases against Trump are disposed of matter much in the overall scheme of things. Most at stake seems to be whether the rule of law will retain some shred of dignity. What we do know is that Trump is fighting fiercely to cow the last judges and the remaining prosecutors standing between him and being sworn in as president unencumbered by any legal restraint or stain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new battlefront opened yesterday in the special counsel cases while Trumps effort to avoid sentencing later this week in the hush money case took on new urgency. Well take them in order. Trump Tries To Block Special Counsel Report Under the regulations for special counsel, they are to submit a final report to the attorney general, who may make the report public. It has been the practice of Attorney General Merrick Garland to make special counsel reports public. We learned yesterday that Trumps lawyers themselves poised to take top DOJ positions in the new Trump administration have been privately lobbying Garland to bury Special Counsel Jack Smiths reports on the Jan. 6 and Mar-a-Lago investigations. We learned of this development when two of Trumps co-defendants in the Mar-a-Lago case filed an emergency motion asking U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to block the public release of any report pertaining to them. Let me pause and note that as to the Trump co-defendants there is a legitimate concern that the public release of further information about them could be prejudicial since their cases, still on appeal, were not extinguished by the Supreme Courts ruling on presidential immunity. I am sure that is a consideration Garland will be weighing anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attached to the motion was a strident 12-page letter dated Jan. 6, 2025, from Trumps attorneys to Garland demanding that he halt all efforts to prepare and release Smiths report, and throwing all manner of arguments, legal and political, into the mix. In response to the motion, Jack Smith confirmed in a new filing that he is working to finalize a two-volume confidential report to the Attorney General explaining the Special Counsels prosecution decisions. One volume pertains to the Mar-a-Lago, Smith told Cannon. The other volume, presumably, applies to the Jan. 6 case. Smith said he would not turn the Mar-a-Lago volume over to Garland before 1 p.m. today. Smith also said Garland has not decided how to handle the volume of the report related to Mar-a-Lago but regardless will not release it to the public before Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 at 10 a.m. ET. Notably the letter to Garland from Trumps counsel indicates they have been allowed to review drafts of the special counsel report, though they complained about the compressed time frame and onerous conditions of their review. Again, this is uncharted territory. The Jan. 6 case against Trump has been dismissed. Cannon dismissed the Mar-a-Lago case against him and DOJ has dropped its appeal of that dismissal as to Trump. So, for example, its not clear whether Cannon has any jurisdiction to weigh in here. But it would not take much in the way of judicial delays to push all of this back a few days and leave it to the new Trump DOJ helmed in part by his now-personal attorneys to make it all go away. Trump Tries To Stop Hush Money Sentencing Judge Juan Merchan denied Monday Donald Trumps last-ditch request to delay his sentencing set for Friday in the hush money case. Trump has already taken steps to get a state appeals court to intervene to overturn his convictions. Expect more emergency appeals today and later this week, including all the way to the Supreme Court, as Trump tries to head off sentencing. Rudy G Held In Contempt Of Court The only small measure of schadenfreude available on the Jan. 6 anniversary was Rudy Giuliani being held in contempt for flouting courts orders in the successful defamation case against him by Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, an outgrowth of the 2020 election subversion effort. TPMs Josh Kovensky was in court for two days of Giuliani absurdism. Give it a read. Marking The Jan. 6 Anniversary Don Moynihan: There was nothing inevitable about where we are today. In key moments key Republicans said, essentially, that Jan. 6 was not a big deal, or even a positive event. It is hard not to conclude that the people who occupy key institutions in newer democracies were simply less willing to take those democracies for granted. By contrast, American democracy seems to be of such little value to many of its leaders that they did nothing to defend it. CNN: How Merrick Garlands Justice Department ran out of time prosecuting Trump for January 6 Roger Parloff: Because of the unusualalmost unimaginableposture of the investigation at this juncture, I will interweave into this recap of the Justice Departments latest [Jan. 6 prosecution] figures some discussion about potential pardons. Great Read ProPublicas Joshua Kaplan: Outraged by the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, a wilderness survival trainer spent years undercover climbing the ranks of right-wing militias. He didnt tell police or the FBI. He didnt tell family or friends. The one person he told was a ProPublica reporter. TPM On TV TPMs Hunter Walker was on last night with MSNBCs Joy Reid discussing the still unsolved Capitol Hill pipe bomb case: Anticipatory Obedience The Federal Reserves top regulatory official, Michael Barr, resigned rather than waiting around to see if President Trump would try to remove him unlawfully: I was worried that the risk of a dispute over the position would end up being a political distraction for the Federal Reserve and for me, and that that would end up detracting from our ability to serve our mission. Bannon Unfurls New Threats Against DOJ Officials A sample of former Trump adviser Steve Bannons screed on his program yesterday targeting outgoing DC U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matthew Graves has to understand something. Matthew Graves, write this down. Or if Matthew Graves family or anybody that knows Matthew Graves, make sure his family knows this. Youre going to prison for a very long time. Youre a totally evil person that has broken the law and destroyed lives, and the people whose lives you destroyed may not have the power to do anything about it, but we certainly do, and we are. You are a truly evil individual and youre deranged. Quote Of The Day Ten years ago if someone had told us the owner of one of the worlds biggest social-media companies would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany, who would have imagined that?French President Emmanuel Macron, addressing French ambassadors on Monday Jimmy Carter To Lie In State At The Capitol ATLANTA, GEORGIA JANUARY 06: The Honor Guard surrounds former President Jimmy Carters flag-draped casket as he lies in repose at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum on January 6, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Carter will lay in repose at the center for six days of funeral observances. President Carter died on December 29th, at the age of 100, making him the longest-living U.S. President in history. (Photo by Miguel Martinez Pool/Getty Images) The remains of the late president arrive today in Washington for three days of public memorials. Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know! During a Jan. 7 press conference, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump blamed President Joe Biden for provoking Russias full-scale invasion by supporting Ukraines NATO membership aspirations. Trump argued that Ukraines potential NATO membership has long been a major concern for Moscow. "Thats been like written in stone. And Biden said, 'No, they should be able to join NATO.' Then Russia has somebody right on their doorstep. I could understand their [Russia's] feelings about that." A report by The Wall Street Journal has previously suggested that Trumps team was exploring a plan to delay Ukraines NATO membership by at least 20 years in exchange for Western arms supplies and European peacekeepers to monitor a potential ceasefire with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also criticized Bidens foreign policy decisions, including the withdrawal from Afghanistan, repeating his claims that they contributed to Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to launch a full-scale war against Ukraine. When asked about possible negotiations with Putin, Trump said he would wait until after his Jan. 20 inauguration to hold talks. "I dont think its appropriate that I meet until after Jan. 20, which I hate because you know every day people are being many, many young people are being killed soldiers," he said. On Dec. 19, Putin reiterated his willingness to engage in dialogue with Trump but upheld Moscows demands, including the desire to fully occupy four Ukrainian regions Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson and a rejection of Ukraines NATO membership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has pledged during the election campaign to bring a swift end to the war but has not outlined concrete steps for achieving peace. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed dissatisfaction with Trumps reported peace deal proposals on Dec. 29, saying that Moscow rejects any plan that fails to meet its demands. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed cautious optimism about working with the incoming U.S. administration, reiterating Ukraines commitment to a diplomatic resolution by 2025. Read also: Trump can be decisive in ending war Zelensky on Ukraines outlook for 2025 Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Donald Trumps pick to oversee what he has promised to be the countrys largest ever deportation effort says he will need tens of billions of dollars to carry out the mission, but it will ultimately reduce taxpayers burden. Most Read from Bloomberg Thats a lot of money. It is, Tom Homan, who Trump named to lead deportation operations as border czar, said Monday night at a Republican womens club in central Texas. But right now we are spending billions of dollars in perpetuity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homan, a career immigration official who started working for the government as a Border Patrol agent during the Reagan administration, referenced an estimate of $86 billion for the cost for deportation, though the specifics of what that covered werent immediately clear. But he said that figure pales in comparison to the ongoing tally of bills to house, feed and move migrants inside the US. Every illegal alien gets a free hotel room, every illegal alien gets three squares a day, Homan said at the dinner in Franklin, Texas, about 140 miles south of Dallas. In the long run, I am going to save the taxpayers billions of dollars. Homan also cited two recent high-profile crimes blamed on undocumented migrants to justify the spending. And besides $86 billion, what price do you put on Laken Riley? he said. Whats the life worth of a young lady that was burned alive on the subway in New York? Homans comments on funding offer a glimpse into one of the most pressing challenges the Trump administration faces: securing the resources needed to execute mass deportations while navigating a razor-thin majority in Congress. Trump and Homan have both pledged to deport millions of foreigners living in the US without permission and immediately put a stop to illegal border crossing along the Mexican border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The costs for everything from rounding up individuals to housing them to administering court cases and arranging transportation on chartered flights will be steep, and come up against political hurdles amid potential partisan gridlock. The Department of Homeland Securitys proposed budget for this fiscal year is $107.9 billion. The American Immigration Council said in an October report that a long-term program for mass deportations would cost $88 billion a year for a total cost of $967.9 billion over the course of more than a decade. A one-time operation would carry a price of $315 billion, the group estimated. Homan and the new Trump administration also face staunch opposition from state and local officials around the country who have pledged to do whatever they can to protect migrants living in their communities. Homan had a warning for those officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They better get the hell out of the way, were coming, Homan said Monday. The Chicago mayor, he said I am not welcome in Chicago. Well, guess where I am going to be on day one? Homan said the planned deportation effort and other yet-to-be-disclosed border security plans are necessary after years of lenient enforcement under the Biden administration, which oversaw record numbers of illegal crossings, primarily by asylum seekers from around the world. Under Biden, migrant arrests at the US-Mexico border have fluctuated sharply, falling from a record high in 2023. The Biden administration credits its tougher enforcement under an executive order for a steady decline since mid-year, while Mexico has also increased efforts to prevent migrants from arriving at the US border. There is a right way and a wrong way to come to this country, Homan said. President Trump is going to secure the southern border. We know how to do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Congress took its first steps on Tuesday toward implementing Trumps broader crackdown, passing a bill that would target undocumented migrants charged with nonviolent crimes for deportation. The measure, named after Laken Riley, passed the House with bipartisan support and is expected to clear the Senate. Riley was a 22-year-old nursing student in Georgia who was murdered last year by an migrant who had entered the country illegally. The man convicted of killing Riley, Jose Antonio Ibarra, was previously arrested for shoplifting. --With assistance from Brendan Case. (Updates with details on Laken Riley Act in penultimate paragraph.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- A cohort of about 20 Republican House members from New York, New Jersey and California was invited to meet with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate Saturday ahead of a looming fight over an extension of his 2017 tax cuts. Most Read from Bloomberg Much of the group is likely to attend and plans to discuss increasing the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions, which has disproportionately hurt voters in the three high-tax states, according to US Representative Nick LaLota, who represents eastern Long Island in New York. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans in Congress are in the beginning stages of negotiating a package that will extend Trumps 2017 tax cuts including the future of the cap on the SALT deduction, which will otherwise expire and address the other legislative priorities of immigration and energy production. The meeting is a positive sign for lawmakers seeking to expand the deduction, a politically divisive write-off that reduced tax bills for some residents of high-tax states. In an interview with Bloomberg, LaLota said the group of lawmakers includes four other representatives who are banding with him to push for a reasonable adjustment to the cap on so-called SALT deductions. The cap was imposed as part of the 2017 bill. There are five very salty Republicans I would expect that somebody in his position would appreciate that dynamic and would want to provide an accommodation to get the bill passed, he said. The five of us have the opportunity to effectuate an even more beautiful, big bill. The group, which also includes New Yorkers Andrew Garbarino and Mike Lawler, New Jersey Representative Tom Kean and Californias Young Kim, will push to expand the deduction currently capped at $10,000 regardless of marital status that would deliver big savings to their constituents as part of a larger tax package, said LaLota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he declined to comment on what the group would consider to be an acceptable cap, last month he said that a potential plan by Trumps economic advisers to double the tax write-off limit to $20,000 is not reasonable. He also told Bloomberg the removal of the so-called marriage penalty the fact that the limit is the same for both single and married taxpayers on its own would be insufficient for the salty five. Lawler reintroduced legislation that proposes raising the cap to $100,000 for individuals and $200,000 for married couples, but he acknowledged in an interview Wednesday with Bloomberg Television that this is going to be a negotiation. Lawler said New Yorkers shouldnt be punished for living in a high-tax state, especially one that gives more to the federal government than it gets back. The $10,000 cap is woefully insufficient, Lawler said, adding that members from other states beyond New York, New Jersey and California quietly support an increase in the cap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokespeople for Lawler, Garbarino, Kim and Kean confirmed their plans to attend the meeting with Trump. Spokespeople for Trump didnt respond to a request to comment. New York Governor Kathy Hochul weighed in on Trumps upcoming meeting by calling on GOP lawmakers from her state to push for a full repeal of the cap. Republicans have drained billions directly from the pockets of their own constituents, and now its time for them to deliver, she said in a statement. This cap has cost New Yorkers as much as $12 billion every year since it took effect in 2018, robbing middle-class families of their hard-earned money. Because of its slim majority in the House, the GOP can only afford to lose the support of a couple of congressional Republicans to advance the bill through a process known as budget reconciliation. The process, which would allow the GOP to pass legislation only with Republican votes, depends on near-universal agreement within its narrow majorities in the House and Senate. That puts great pressure on Trump and Republican leaders to negotiate a package that appeases both their far-right flank as well as members from the New York City-area and Southern California, for whom expanding the SALT deduction is a political priority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The math dictates that any small group of members can block anything that is going to be Republican, LaLota said. And that math isnt just particular to the SALT discussion, but just about anything and everything we do here in this town. That said, that President Trump is bullish on SALT and wants to provide a fix and is inviting us to Mar-a-Lago to be a part of that fix gives me great optimism. While it was Trump who curbed the tax break as part of his signature 2017 legislation, on the campaign trail he vowed to expand the cap. LaLota credited the change of heart to efforts by lawmakers to develop a relationship with Trump. In addition to taxes, LaLota said that he and Lawler also plan on discussing with Trump New York Citys congestion pricing toll, which went into effect this week and charges drivers $9 for entering Manhattans central business district. Trump had said he opposes the fee. LaLota said the toll especially hurts suburbanites from his and Lawlers districts, who should not be a piggy bank to the bloated MTA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Billy House, Annmarie Hordern and Jonathan Ferro. (Updates with comment from Governor Hochul in the 12th paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (NewsNation) The incoming Trump administration could overhaul NASA with several goals, including sending humans to the moon and Mars by 2028. According to Ars Technica, a committee within the Trump transition team has spent the last five weeks or so, reviewing NASAs space programs and could draft executive orders for a major overhaul of NASA, as soon as President-elect Donald Trump is in office. What are the plans? The policy changes being contemplated include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Establishing the goal of sending humans to the moon and Mars by 2028; Canceling the costly Space Launch System rocket and possibly the Orion spacecraft; Consolidating Goddard Space Flight Center and Ames Research Center at Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama; Retaining a small administration presence in Washington, D.C., but otherwise moving headquarters to a field center; Rapidly redesigning the Artemis lunar program to make it more efficient. Who will replace Justin Trudeau? Jose Hernandez, a retired NASA astronaut, supports redesigning the Artemis lunar program but finds some proposed changes unrealistic. Some of it makes sense. Some of them are head-scratchers. Mars is at least 10 to 15 years away. Theres no way were going to get there in 2028. Simply because of the technical hurdles and what could happen to our bodies to long-duration space travel, so were not going to be able to send humans by 2028. While the team only makes suggestions, not policies, Trumps direction focuses on speed and results in any changes. Can the Trump administration reshape the space industry through an executive order? Substantive changes to NASA require approval from the White House Office of Management and Budget and Congress, as Congress controls NASAs funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has nominated billionaire entrepreneur and private space traveler Jared Isaacman as a NASA administrator, signaling a push toward privatizing space travel and consolidating resources. This includes a potential move of NASA headquarters from Washington, D.C., to one of its centers to streamline operations. Bill OReilly was in a Cabinet meeting during Mar-a-lago visit The goal is to attract more space companies like Elon Musks SpaceX. NASA has supported commercial space travel development for over two decades, which could give the U.S. a technological edge over China and enhance military protection in space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hernandez noted that many space companies are excited about the upcoming Trump administrations approach, especially its new relationship with Musk. The Hill 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 NewsNation. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Four years after rioters stormed the Capitol, hoping to stop the certification of President Joe Bidens election in 2020, the Department of Justice said prosecutors have charged 1,583 people with crimes related to the attack. About 1,100 people have already been sentenced, the Department of Justice said. The longest sentence went to the leader of the Proud Boys. Henry Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years in prison. It was one of the most shameful, reprehensible episodes in the history of this great nation, said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). Lawlessness and mob violence sought to bring democracy to its knees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Merrick Garland said investigators have analyzed massive amounts of data to arrest hundreds of people. It was an unprecedented attack on a cornerstone of our system of government, the peaceful transfer of power from one administration to the next, Garland wrote. Police officers were brutally assaulted while bravely defending the United States Capitol. They were punched, tackled, tased, and attacked with chemical agents President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to pardon some of the people charged with crimes from Jan. 6, as soon as his first day in office. A lot of us feel that the penalties and the sentencing was much beyond what would happen for someone breaking and entering, said Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I support pardons for those that committed nothing, but were motivated to come and express their point of view to Congress, said Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.). Those that assaulted police officers, thats a different story. Congress met Monday to certify the election results for President-elect Donald Trump. The Department of Homeland Security and Capitol Police increased security to the same level as a presidential inauguration. The Capitol was surrounded by black fences. Police from Baltimore and New York assisted the Capitol police. READ NEXT | 1-on-1 with S.C. Rep. Ralph Norman on House Speaker Mike Johnson vote 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. President-elect Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he wants to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, because its ours. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory, Trump said of the ocean basin that borders five U.S. states to the north and Mexico to the south. Its carried some version of the Gulf of Mexico name, given to it by Spanish colonizers, since the 1540s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gulf of America what a beautiful name. And its appropriate, Trump said at a news conference, also asserting: We do most of the work there. Its ours. One of the United States biggest impacts on the Gulf was the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, when a BP-operated prospect caused the biggest marine oil spill in petroleum industry history. Despite the event constituting one of the largest environmental disasters in world history, Trump weakened regulations to prevent future spills during his first term in the White House. Trumps name change would have no practical effect on the Gulfs maritime boundaries between the U.S. and Mexico, and in practice, no country can own international waters. And if other renaming efforts offer any indication, the cost of identifying, modifying and removing assets referring to the Gulf of Mexico could carry a price tag in the multimillions. President-elect Donald Trump announces his "Gulf of America" idea Tuesday at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Scott Olson via Getty Images Not long after Trumps remarks Tuesday, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) announced she would file legislation to make Trumps proposed name change. Beyond that, its unclear how a potential renaming process would play out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is not the first one to pitch the new name, but he may be the first one to do so seriously. In 2012, former Mississippi state Rep. Stephen Holland, a Democrat, introduced legislation proposing the same name change. He later said he introduced the bill as a bit of satire to criticize his Republican colleagues anti-Mexican sentiments. Trump also vowed last month to rename Denali, Alaskan natives name for the tallest mountain in North America, to Mount McKinley. The mountain was called Mount McKinley until 2015, when then-President Barack Obama sided with native Alaskans objection to the name honoring former President William McKinley. They took his name off Mount McKinley, Trump said in a speech. He was a great president, he continued, adding that his administration will bring back the name of Mount McKinley because I think he deserves it. McKinley never visited the mountain and had no significant historical connection to either Denali or Alaska, Obama noted when he signed off on the change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has also said hell reverse Fort Libertys 2021 name change from Fort Bragg, which was originally named after confederate commander Braxton Bragg. I think I just learned the secret to winning absolutely and by massive margins. Im going to promise to you that were going to change the name back to Fort Bragg, he said in October. Trumps proposed name change for the Gulf comes a day after he suggested the United States should acquire Canada, claiming Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State. Related... US President-elect Donald Trump said that NATO countries should be spending 5% of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, up from the current 2% target. "They can all afford it, but they should be at 5% not 2%," he said during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. "I'm the one that got them to pay 2%," he continued. Trump, who returns to the White House on January 20, has long been a critic of NATO, claiming that many European members are free-riders who don't pay their way, relying instead on US taxpayers. At a campaign rally last year he said he would "encourage" Russia "to do whatever the hell they want" to NATO countries that are not spending enough on defence. 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: Mike Anderson from Pexels When children have a place to play outside, programs aimed at reducing their screen time use are more successful, according to a University of Michigan study. The study also found that such programs are less successful in neighborhoods where children have less access to green spaces, which include areas such as forests, shrubland, open spaces and grassland, according to lead author Ian-Marshall Lang, a researcher at U-M's School of Kinesiology and first author of the study. The study is published in the journal Health and Place. "Because prior studies have shown differences in the effectiveness of community programming and policies by race and ethnicity, we set out to show why this may be the case. We thought that access to green space might be a key factor, given that national research shows racial and ethnic inequities in green space availability," Lang said. "This raises the question of who has access to high green space. Both our study and national data show green space is less common in communities with higher Hispanic and Black populations. "These unfair differences in green space access might explain why community programs and policies are less effective in reducing screen time among different racial groups. To address screen time inequities, we need solutions that create fair, just and healthy environments for all communities." Lang and colleagues drew upon data from the Healthy Communities Study, which examines the use of community programs and policies and obesity-related behaviors among racially and ethnically diverse children. The researchers also linked new information about the participants' communities and neighborhoods so they could better understand what the children's neighborhoods looked like. About two-thirds of children aged 6 to 17 exceed the recommended limit of two hours of screen time each day. Community programs and policies aim to reduce children's screen use by providing community-based education and skill development programs for parents, or no-cost physical activity opportunities for children. But these programs and policies seem to fare better when children have a space to play outside their homes. "Neighborhood green spaces may draw children out of the house and give them an alternative space to engage in activities other than screen time. Thus, in neighborhoods where green space is sparser, the environment may be less encouraging and less successful at pulling children away from the screen," Lang said. "Simply increasing the intensity of screen-time reduction programs may not be effective in environments that do not support behavior change." Children in neighborhoods composed of more than 30% Black residents were more likely to exceed daily screen time limitsand neighborhoods with about 30% Black and Hispanic residents were more likely to lack green space. "More intense programs were associated with lower screen time in places with plenty of green space nearby, but not places with low or moderate green space," Lang said. "This is important because not everyone in the United States has the same access to green space. We know there are racial and ethnic inequities in green space access in the U.S., and that those inequities are connected to population health outcomes. Our findings add to this research by showing that inequities in green space access may also affect the success of programs aimed at reducing kids' screen time." The researchers say their study did not find a causal relationship but that it suggests that simply increasing the intensity of community programming may not be a universal solution to addressing childhood screen time in the absence of supportive environments. "This work is particularly important for organizations that have the responsibility and power to make equitable investments in green spaces to support the health of children," Lang said. "Our findings provide evidence-based support for initiatives like the 10-Minute Walk Program that calls on city mayors to address inequities in green space access by ensuring that everyone in U.S. cities has access to a quality park within a 10-minute walk of their home." University of Michigan co-authors included senior author Natalie Colabianchi, as well as Anna Fischer, Cathy Antonakos, Stephanie Miller and Rebecca Hasson. Other co-authors were Russell Pate of the University of South Carolina and Vicki Collie-Akers of the University of Kansas. More information: Ian-Marshall Lang et al, Neighborhood environments underpin screen time intervention success in children: Evidence from a study of greenspace and community programming across 130 US communities, Health & Place (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103341 Journal information: Health & Place US President-elect Donald Trump said that NATO countries should be spending 5% of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, up from the current 2% target. "They can all afford it, but they should be at 5% not 2%," he said during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Trump, who returns to the White House on January 20, has long been a critic of NATO, claiming that many European members are free-riders who don't pay their way, relying instead on US taxpayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the election campaign, the Republican had said he would work within NATO to ensure that all 32 alliance members spend at least 3% on defence in the future - a demand that has now been ramped up even further. At a campaign rally last year he went so far as to say he would "encourage" Russia "to do whatever the hell they want" to NATO countries that are not spending enough on defence. At his press conference on Tuesday, Trump boasted that it was only his pressure during his first term that had caused NATO partners to spend more. "I'm the one that got them to pay 2%," he continued, specifically mentioning Germany as a laggard when it comes to defence expenditure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to NATO estimates last year, 23 members were expected to meet or exceed the 2% of GDP target in 2024. The German government has reported defence spending of around 90.6 billion ($94.9 billion) for 2024. According to estimates from June, this could correspond to a share of GDP of around 2.1%. NATO estimates the United States spent about 3.38% on defence in 2024 - well under 5%. A decision on new spending pledges is expected to be made at the alliance's summit next June. US President-elect Donald Trump has not ruled out using the military to gain control of the Panama Canal or Greenland. When asked by a journalist whether he could assure the world that he would not use military or economic force, Trump said: "No." The Republican, who will return to the White House on January 20, added at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida that "I'm not going to commit to that now. It might, it might be that you'll have to do something." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump had previously described the transit fees on the Panama Canal as highly unfair and called for control of the waterway to be handed back to the US if it was not treated fairly. The canal - one of the world's most important trade routes - was built by the US in the early 20th century before administration was gradually handed over to Panama. "The Panama Canal is vital to our country. It's being operated by China," Trump lamented. Trump has also expressed interest in the vast Arctic island of Greenland, which belongs to Denmark, on several occasions. Trump's son Donald Trump Junior is currently visiting Greenland. Officially, the trip is private. US President-elect Donald Trump has not ruled out using the military to gain control of the Panama Canal or Greenland after being asked various times at an extraordinary press conference on Tuesday. When challenged by a journalist whether he could assure the world that he would not use military or economic force, Trump said: "No." The Republican, who will return to the White House on January 20, added at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida that "I'm not going to commit to that now. It might, it might be that you'll have to do something." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His son Donald Trump Jr was in Greenland on Tuesday on a private trip. Trump had previously described the transit fees on the Panama Canal as highly unfair and called for control of the waterway to be handed back to the US if it was not treated fairly. The canal - one of the world's most important trade routes - was built by the US in the early 20th century before administration was gradually handed over to Panama. "The Panama Canal is vital to our country. It's being operated by China," Trump lamented. He also renewed his call for the US to take over Greenland, which is part of Denmark, and again refused to push back on journalists who asked about possible military action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "People really don't even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security. That's for the free world. I'm talking about protecting the free world," Trump said. "The (Greenland) people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the United States." He later added: "I would tariff Denmark at a very high level." Trump Jr said he had no plans to meet with politicians during his brief stay in Greenland. "Just here as tourists," Trump Jr said at the airport in the capital Nuuk, according to Greenlandic broadcaster KNR Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Jr flew to Greenland on a Trump-branded plane. Posts on social media showed him being greeted in the airport arrivals hall by people wearing red Make America Great Again caps. Greenland is a vast island containing 2,166,000 square kilometres and 56,000 inhabitants. "I don't want to be a pawn in Trump's wild dreams of expanding his empire and including our country in it," Aaja Chemnitz, a member for Greenland in the Danish parliament, wrote on Facebook before Trump's latest comments. She also told Danish broadcaster DR she was open to cooperation with the US in areas such as tourism, raw materials and education. However, she emphasized that Greenlanders would decide their future. Trump proposed buying Greenland in first term The president's eldest son has not yet been appointed to any official position in Trump's administration, at least publicly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, he is considered a close adviser to his father and was heavily involved in the election campaign. Trump Jr's trip to Greenland is therefore also politically explosive. Trump caused a furore in December when stating the US "feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity." Trump had proposed buying Greenland during his first term in office. The far-fetched offer led to a diplomatic dust-up between Washington and Copenhagen. "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale," the island's Prime Minister Mute Egede said in a statement last month, after Trump had floated the idea again. The Danish government reiterated its support for Egede's position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to its location in the Arctic, its proximity to Russia, its suspected mineral resources and an important US military base, the island is strategically important for both the US and Denmark. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized in December that Denmark could not monitor Greenland's vast territory on its own. "There are no concrete plans, but we will work with the US," he said. New Danish coat of arms gives Greenland more prominence Recently, the Danish government announced plans to strengthen Greenland's security with a large investment. Since the start of the year, the new royal coat of arms has also given more prominence to Greenland, symbolized by a polar bear. The Faroe Islands, part of the Danish realm, are featured more too. The Danish court stated that King Frederik X aimed to create a contemporary coat of arms with the changes. Whether the renewal is linked to Trump's interest in Greenland remains unclear. President-elect Donald Trump refused to rule out using military force to grab the Panama Canal and Greenland on Tuesday, saying U.S. national security depends on winning control of the two territories. In a free-wheeling press conference, Trump also vowed he would change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and proclaimed a new American golden age when he returns to the White House in two weeks. Were at the beginning of a great golden age of business and were also at a golden age of common sense, Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Were going to have a lot of fun making America great again. Since the election, the perception of the whole world is different. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump fired off broadsides at several other nations, including neighbors Canada and Mexico, along with Denmark, which rules Greenland as an overseas territory of 45,000 people. We want to get along with everyone, but it takes two to tango, Trump said. The people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the U.S. Trump spoke as presidential son Donald Trump Jr. jetted into Greenlands capital of Nuuk for what he said was a daylong private visit and to shoot video footage for his podcast. Denmark has said it would not negotiate over the future of Greenland, although its residents, who are Danish citizens, could vote for independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is not for sale, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday. Panama says it wont cede even an inch of its territory around the canal, a stance that has broad support across Latin America. Trump also brushed off a question about whether he plans to pardon those who were convicted of attacking police officers during the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. Were looking at the whole thing, but yes Ill be making major pardons, he said. Trump repeated his warning to the Palestinians and Israel that he wants a deal for the release of the hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza before he takes office on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will not be good, frankly, for anyone, Trump said. All hell will break out. I dont have to say any more, but thats what it is. The soon-to-be commander-in-chief said he hopes to meet with Russian premier Vladimir Putin soon after returning to office to launch an effort to broker a peace deal in Ukraine. Trump blamed President Joe Biden for provoking Russia into invading its neighbor by suggesting Ukraine could join NATO. I could understand [Russias] feelings about that, said Trump, repeating a pro-Kremlin talking point. It was always understood. They had a deal and Biden broke it. The most eyebrow-raising part of the rambling hour-long performance came when Trump dished out threats at allies over his pet causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He appeared deadly serious about forcing Denmark to relinquish political control over resource-rich Greenland and flatly refused to rule out taking military action. People really dont know if Denmark has any right to [Greenland]. But if they do, they need to give it up, Trump said. We need it for national security purposes. Trump warned that he would slap tariffs on Denmark if the Scandinavian ally does not play ball and warned things could escalate from there. It might be you have to do something, he said. Trump also sounded a tough note on Panama, saying he would take whatever action is needed to take back the territory around the canal, which the U.S. gave back to the central American nation in the 1970s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He riffed on his suggestion that Canada would be better off joining the U.S., calling the long border between the two nations an artificial line and saying both peoples would be better off if it didnt exist. Unlike Panama and Greenland, Trump promised not to invade our northern neighbor, saying he would use economic actions to win concessions on trade and security policy. They should be a state, he said. Weve been good neighbors but we cant do it forever. Canadian is embroiled in a political crisis and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday he will step down. But there appears to be no political appetite for a merger with the U.S. (Bloomberg) -- US President-elect Donald Trumps incoming special envoy to the Middle East said negotiators could be on the verge of a deal to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas in its war against Israel. Most Read from Bloomberg I think that weve had some really great progress, and Im really hopeful that by the inaugural well have some good things to announce on behalf of the president, Steven Witkoff said Tuesday at a press conference at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump repeated a threat that if the hostages were not released before his inauguration on Jan. 20 that Hamas would pay a price. Hamas and Israel still have key obstacles to overcome before agreeing to pause fighting. If theyre not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East, and it will not be good for Hamas and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone, the incoming president said. Trump has indicated he wants the war in Gaza swiftly concluded. It is unclear what retaliatory actions he would take against Hamas if the hostages are not released. Hamas has signaled a willingness to return almost three dozen hostages but a broader cease-fire deal has remained elusive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US-designated terrorist group, unveiled a list of 34 hostages that it would release in an initial phase of a ceasefire agreement with Israel on Monday. The militant group, however, did not clarify which individuals are alive or dead, with a Hamas official only saying at least two are dead. Israel has demanded living hostages. As he prepares to assume the presidency again, Trumps own team has been taking shape. He named Morgan Ortagus to be his deputy Middle East peace envoy, reporting to Witkoff. In his announcement, Trump said he expected great results soon a sign of the pressure on his staff to rapidly steward an end to the conflict. Witkoff said he traveled to Qatar for meetings about securing a ceasefire and hostage deal, and plans to go back this week. Israeli officials have suggested that US pressure should be directed at Qatar and Egypt, which have served as intermediaries with Hamas and, the officials say, might respond to threats of withheld support from Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps word has value, has weight, exerts huge leverage over the mediators, Eli Cohen, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus security cabinet, told Israels Army Radio on Tuesday. These very countries are dependent on the United States for their defense. Qatar has previously rejected the idea it can get a ceasefire by putting more pressure on Hamas, some of whose political leaders are based in the Gulf country. The US has regularly commended Qatar for its mediation efforts. US President Joe Bidens administration also hopes to see an agreement before the end of his tenure, as his aides seek to shore up his foreign-policy legacy. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East became a political liability for Bidens party before Novembers US election, as some voters refused to vote for Democrats over their support for Israels defense and for not putting more pressure on Israel to stop its offensive on Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas killed 1,200 people in its Oct. 7, 2023 massacre on Israeli soil, and took 250 hostages. As a result of the ensuing ground and air invasion by Israel, more than 45,000 people have died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. --With assistance from Dan Williams. (Updates with comments from Israel on Qatar.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. By Bo Erickson and Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Donald Trump is expected to meet Republican U.S. senators on Wednesday, a Republican aide said on Monday, as the president-elect urges his party to combine his priorities into one massive bill. The aide added that a time and location for the meeting were still to be determined. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT Trump will take office on Jan. 20 after winning the Nov. 5 U.S. elections in which his Republican Party also won a narrow majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have been weighing a complex legislative strategy that could allow them to bypass Democratic opposition to boost border spending and extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts, which are due to expire this year. CONTEXT The president-elect will be in Washington for the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter. Senate Republican leaders extended an invite to meet him on Wednesday, Punchbowl News reported earlier. Trump on Sunday urged his fellow Republicans in Congress to combine his priorities into one massive bill that would cut taxes, bolster border security and increase domestic energy production. He said Republicans could cover the cost - which could amount to trillions of dollars - by raising tariffs on imported goods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans in Congress were at odds over how to proceed with Trump's agenda, with some warning of potential failure, even as Trump himself called for quick action to pass his priorities. (Reporting by Bo Erickson; additional reporting by Steve Holland; writing by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Michael Perry) (Bloomberg) -- Donald Trump failed to convince a New York judge to delay his sentencing in his hush money criminal case, keeping the consequential hearing on track for Jan. 10 unless an appeals court steps in. Most Read from Bloomberg Justice Juan Merchan in Manhattan on Monday said Trumps lawyers failed to offer valid reasons for delaying the sentencing. Trump had requested to put the hearing on hold while he asks an intermediate appeals court to overturn two of Merchans recent rulings, including one last week, that rejected Trumps arguments to throw out the verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merchan, who has indicated that he will not sentence Trump to any time behind bars, said their arguments were repetitive. This Court has considered Defendants arguments in support of his motion and finds that they are for the most part, a repetition of the arguments he has raised numerous times in the past, Merchan said in his written opinion. Trump has said he would appear virtually rather than in person for the sentencing on Friday, according to prosecutors. A Manhattan jury in May found Trump guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to conceal payments to an adult film star before the 2016 election. He is appealing two decisions by Merchan that rejected his argument for vacating the verdict on presidential immunity grounds. The judge held that a president-elect has no such immunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In seeking to overturn his conviction, Trump has argued that the case will harm his ability to serve as president after the November election and that some evidence was improperly presented to the jury. 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, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Trump, said in a statement. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who filed the case, argued for the request to be denied, saying that Trump has repeatedly sought sentencing delays. Unconditional Discharge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With jail off the table, Merchan said last week that a sentence of an unconditional discharge was the most viable solution, meaning the 78-year-old incoming president would face no real penalty other than having the conviction remain on his record. In theory Trump could have faced up to four years in prison, though the judge said prosecutors already conceded that wasnt a practicable recommendation. Bragg also said that the purpose of an immunity challenge is to stop a trial from going forward, while Trumps ended months ago. As to the only remaining proceeding the Jan. 10 sentencing the court has already stated its intent to impose the lowest possible sentence authorized by law: an unconditional discharge, the DA said in a court filing Monday. Trumps lawyers said it was irrelevant that the judge would not impose a sentence of incarceration, because any sentence at all even unconditional discharge would be unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it is indisputable that the fabricated charges in this meritless case should have never been brought, and at this point could not possibly justify a sentence more onerous than that, no sentence at all is appropriate based on numerous legal errors including legal errors directly relating to presidential immunity that President Trump will address in the forthcoming appeals, Trumps lawyers said in the filing. Supreme Court Ruling Last month, Merchan rejected a separate request to dismiss the hush money case, based on Trumps arguments that the trial was tainted by testimony and other evidence that wouldnt have been allowed under a US Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity that was handed down in a different case last year. Last weeks decision addressed broader claims that the case couldnt move forward in light of his win in the November election. The appeal Trump is filing will cover both of the decisions related to presidential immunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under New York law, a defendant cant appeal their conviction until after they are sentenced, which Merchan last week cited as one reason to go forward with Trumps sentencing. But Trump argues that unless the verdict is tossed out, hell be forced to argue the appeal while hes in office in violation of his presidential immunity. Forcing President Trump to prosecute, or even defend, a criminal appeal during his term of office an appeal that could result in a remand for another criminal trial during President Trumps term is itself a clear-cut violation of sitting-President immunity, his lawyer said in the filing. (Updates with decision from judge Merchan to not delay the sentencing. An earlier version of the story corrected the headline and first paragraph to clarify that Trumps lawyers told a judge that he will appeal) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2025 Bloomberg L.P. A New York appeals court judge has denied President-elect Donald Trump's request to delay the Jan. 10 sentencing in his criminal hush money case. Trumps sentencing will proceed as planned on Friday, pending potential additional legal maneuvers by the president-elects lawyers. Judge Ellen Gesmer rejected Trumps claim that the case should be delayed because of presidential immunity, after his attorney argued before the court that Trump is covered by presidential immunity that extends to him while he waits to be sworn in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Judge denies Trump's request to halt sentencing in his criminal hush money case The appellate court heard arguments Tuesday in Trump's lawsuit against the judge in the case, Juan Merchan, and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, as part of Trump's effort to halt his sentencing following his criminal conviction in May. "We should get a stay so that no further action happens," defense attorney Todd Blanche said during oral arguments at the Appellate Division's First Judicial Department. "The imposition is extraordinary." Judge Ellen Gesmer questioned whether immunity granted to sitting presidents extends to presidents-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm curious about that," she said. "Do you have any support for a notion that presidential immunity extends to Presidents-elect?" PHOTO: Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event, Sept. 25, 2024, in Mint Hill, N.C. (Evan Vucci/AP) Blanche replied that he did not. "There has never been a case like this before, so no," Blanche said. Prosecutors said there is no evidence "whatsoever" to back the claim that presidential immunity applies to Trump prior to his inauguration on Jan. 20. "The claim is so baseless that there is no support for an automatic stay here," said Steven Wu of the Manhattan district attorney's office. "There is a compelling public interest in seeing this process come to an end." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecutor noted that Trump's sentencing was originally scheduled for July 11 and every delay since has been done at Trump's request. "If sentencing is to happen at all, now is the best time for it to happen," Wu said. Trump was found guilty in May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in order to boost his electoral prospects in the 2016 presidential election. MORE: Timeline: Manhattan DA's Stormy Daniels hush money case against Donald Trump Merchan initially scheduled Trump's sentencing for July 11 before pushing it back in order to weigh if Trump's conviction was impacted by the Supreme Court's July ruling prohibiting the prosecution of a president for official acts undertaken while in office. Merchan subsequently ruled that Trump's conviction related "entirely to unofficial conduct" and "poses no danger of intrusion on the authority and function of the Executive Branch." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's lawyers asked the appeals court to stop the proceedings -- including his Jan. 10 sentencing -- and to dismiss his conviction outright based on presidential immunity grounds. "Justice Merchan's 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 President's official acts against him in a criminal proceeding," they argued in their suit. Blanche and fellow defense lawyer Emil Bove, both of whom Trump has picked for top Justice Department posts in his incoming administration, claimed in the suit that Trump's "undisputed absolute immunity" extends to his time as president-elect -- an argument that Judge Merchan roundly denied last week. The lawyers also claimed that the jury's verdict was "erroneous" because they saw evidence related to official acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Trump brings this Article 78 proceeding to redress the serious and continuing infringement on his Presidential immunity from criminal process that he holds as the 45th and soon-to-be 47th President of the United States of America," the filing said. The president-elected faces up to four years in prison, but Merchan last week indicated that he would sentence Trump to an unconditional discharge -- effectively a blemish on Trump's record, without prison, fines or probation -- saying that would strike a balance between the duties of president and the sanctity of the jury's verdict. Merchan on Monday denied a separate request by Trump to halt the sentencing in the case. Appeals court denies Trump's bid to halt Friday's hush money sentencing originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Jan. 7During the months between his election and his inauguration as America's 16th president, Abraham Lincoln avoided saying anything about the issues of the day. Lincoln knew, with the nation teetering on the edge of the coming calamity known as the U.S. Civil War, that it wasn't wise for him to weigh in on public questions until he was in office and had the authority to shape policy. Similarly, Franklin Delano Roosevelt was all but mute in the days between his election and his inauguration as the 32nd president of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was during the heart of the Great Depression. His predecessor, Herbert Hoover, tried to force FDR into endorsing Hoover policies for coping with the crisis. Roosevelt smiled and kept quiet until he took the oath of office, when he couldand did, in the famous First Hundred Daysput his own policies in place. When Joe Biden was elected in 2020, he, too, stayed silent during the days between his victory and his inauguration, even as his predecessor, Donald Trump, tried to overturn the election results and deny the voters their voice and the greatest pandemic in a century killed Americans by the tens of thousands. Like Lincoln and FDR, Biden understood that there was little upside to speaking on public questions until he was in a position to answer them with policies and solutions of his own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than that, Lincoln, Roosevelt and Biden were honoring a principle adhered to from Washington on down. They believed, as every president did for the nation's first 240 years, that America has only one president at a time. There has been only one exception in our history. Not surprisingly, that exception is Trump. In the days since he won one of the narrowest victories in U.S. history, the former and future president already has worked to blow up a budget deal that, if he'd had his way, would have led to a federal government shut down and cost Americans billions of dollars. Along the way, he took the legs of the speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, out from under himeven though Johnson has been one of Trump's most loyal defenders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson's grasp on power in the House is shaky at best and the country may soon add another protracted and completely unnecessary battle to find a new speaker to its list of woes. The last onewhich Trump had a hand in, tootook three weeks before Johnson was selected. It paralyzed the government for almost a month. The people's chamber almost tore itself apart. And the one before thatagain, with Trump trying to control things while out of officetook 15 votes and a week. To secure the speaker's spot, former U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-California, had to trade away key powers of the position and sent both the House and the nation on a nine-month rollercoaster ride. A smart man might have learned something from those experiences and decided to refrain from meddling in matters beyond his control before he was back in power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that's not Donald Trump. He's now decided to reverse course on TikTok and has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to delay implementation of a federal law forcing the Chinese government to sell the platform to non-Chinese owners or have it shut down in the U.S. on Jan. 19. Trump's about-face occurred after he had a meeting with an investor in the social media operation who also just happens to be a major donor to the Republican Party. Trump has been uncharacteristically mute about what they discussed at that meeting. The federal law, which the Biden administration is defending as a constitutional duty, had broad bipartisan support when it cleared Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back then, neither Republicans nor Democrats thought the Chinese government shouldn't have easy access to Americans' personal information. Trump, for reasons his legal brief fails to make clear, now thinks letting the Chinese harvest our private data is okay. The wisdom of this latest Trumpian course correction may be far from apparent, but one thing is clear. Once again, Trump feels compelled to honor no law or principle that stands in the way of his half-thought-out impulses. He thinks self-discipline is for sissies. Presidential historians disagree. In their most recent rankings, they placed Lincoln in the top spot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FDR came in second. Biden was 14th. And Trump? Dead last. John Krull is director of Franklin College's Pulliam School of Journalism and publisher of TheStatehouseFile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism students. The views expressed are those of the author only and should not be attributed to Franklin College. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain As the H5N1 bird flu virus continues to rip throughout California's dairy herds and commercial poultry flocks, a Central Valley state official is raising concerns 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 flu's spread in the Central Valley, where many of the state's most vulnerable peopledairy and poultry workerslive and work. "If you're 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 peopleyet there's no testing of wastewater anywhere south of Fresno in the valley," Hurtado said. 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 state's dairy herds697have 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 state's 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. 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 state's 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. It's a major blind spot in the state's surveillance system, state officials acknowledge, yet note it's one they have little control over. "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 county's independent wastewater treatment plants have chosen not to participate in the state's surveillance program. Tulare has 18 reported cases, the most of any county and nearly half the state's total. Everardo Legaspi, deputy director for Kings County public health department, did not provide the exact number of human cases it has reported to the state, except to tell The Times it is aware of "less than 10." 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. 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 nation's raw milk supplyroughly 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 USDA's 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 humansfunds that would be distributed before he leaves office later this month. "I don't think that the right questions are being asked to have an understanding of this bird flu," Hurtado said. "In large part it's 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 influenzawhich when found in wastewater indicate human infectionspositive samples of bird flu could be from a variety of sources, including pasteurized milk. That's 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. "I don't think we really know what it means," said Richard Webby, director of the World Health Organization's 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." It's 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. In addition, it's 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 government's 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." 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. Despite showing symptoms, she said, neither was tested for bird flubut she suspects they had it. Dairy farmers, workers and family members have also told The Times that they believe the state's 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." 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 hasn't 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 doesn't 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 state's 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 we're here, and we've got to be able to improve upon where we've failed." 2025 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Jimmy Carter being set to lie in state on Tuesday was not enough to protect him from Donald Trumps rage. The president-electas just part of a complaint-laden screedslammed Carter in a news conference over his decades-old decision to relinquish control of the Panama Canal to Panama. Jimmy Carter gave it to them for $1 and they were supposed to treat us well, Trump said of the canal. I thought it was a terrible thing to do. It was the most expensive structure ever built in the history of our country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The dig came as Carter, who died on Dec. 29 aged 100, was being transported from the Carter Center in Atlanta to the U.S. Capitol. His body is scheduled to lie in state there from Tuesday afternoon until his funeral on Thursday. MOMENTS AGO: Carter Center final farewell to President Carter; casket en route for U.S. Capitol https://t.co/7akYPZ51X4 pic.twitter.com/4lkXyyseDO MSNBC (@MSNBC) January 7, 2025 That detail did not appear to be remiss on Trump, who acknowledged he would be criticized for the timing of his comment. Nobody wants to talk about the Panama Canal now, he said. Its inappropriate, I guess, because its a bad part of the Carter legacy. The president-elect offered some measured praise for the 39th president, calling him a good man and a very fine person. Not to let his point be forgotten, however, Trump reminded again that giving the Panama Canal to Panama was a very big mistake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And I believe thats why Jimmy Carter lost the election in my opinion, more-so maybe than the hostages, Trump said, referring to the Iran Hostage Crisis that saw U.S. diplomats be held in captivity for over a year. That crisis rocked the nation while Carter was running for re-election against Ronald Reagan, who handedly defeated the Democrat in 1980. Carter signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977, which set in motion the 1999 transfer of the U.S.-built canal to the country it was located within. The canal cost around $375 million to construct, making it the most expensive U.S. project at the time of its completion in 1914. Thousands of American laborers died during the construction process. President Jimmy Carter and General Omar Torrijos, Panama's military ruler, shake hands after they signed the ratified Panama Canal Treaties. / Bettmann / Bettmann Archive Trump has spoken recently about taking back the canal from Panama, complaining the Panamanian government has been gouging U.S. businesses and the U.S. Navy at prices higher than what they charge other countries. They laugh at us because they think were stupid, Trump said of Panama. But were not stupid anymore, so the Panama Canal is under discussion with them right now. Theyve violated every aspect of the agreement and they morally violated it also. The Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has pushed back against Trump and has asserted the canal will remain under his countrys control. President-elect Trump repeated his warnings that all hell will break loose in the Middle East if hostages kidnapped from Israel and held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip are not released before his inauguration on Jan. 20. It will not be good for Hamas, and it will not be good, frankly, for anyone, Trump said during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. All hell will break out. I dont have to say anymore, but thats what it is. Steve Witkoff, Trumps special envoy to the Middle East, said at the same press conference that theres been a lot of progress on efforts to release about 100 hostages held in the Gaza Strip, saying hes hopeful a deal is achieved ahead of the inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witkoff said he had just returned from discussions in Doha, Qatar, on the hostage release deal and was planning to head back to the region Wednesday or Thursday. I believe weve been on the verge of it. I dont want to discuss sort of whats delayed it, he said. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier he hoped the Biden administration could conclude a hostage release and ceasefire deal before the end of President Bidens term in office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Donald Trump Jr. is visiting Greenland, a territory his father said the US should take over. President-elect Trump recently resurfaced a first-term idea of his to buy the Arctic island. Greenland and Denmark have strongly rebuffed the idea. Donald Trump Jr. is heading to Greenland shortly after his father renewed remarks that the US should take over the Danish territory. President-Elect Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post on Monday that his eldest son and "various representatives" would be traveling to the Arctic island to "visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights." Trump added that "the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The post was accompanied by a video featuring someone, seemingly from Greenland, wearing a MAGA hat and saying that the country doesn't want to be "colonized" by Denmark anymore. Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, a US ally and NATO member. A private visit In a statement provided to Business Insider, Denmark's Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged Trump Jr.'s trip but said it had no further comment as it was not an "official American visit." During his first term in office, Trump proposed that the US buy Greenland, which the country's then-Prime Minister, Kim Kielsen, firmly rejected, saying, "Greenland is not for sale and cannot be sold." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent weeks, as he gears up for his second term, Trump has once again revisited the idea of buying the massive island, which is replete with natural resources. On December 23, he said in a Truth Social post that ownership and control of Greenland is an "absolute necessity" for the US. He made the comments in a post announcing his choice for US Ambassador to Denmark, soon after he threatened to take over the Panama Canal. Reuters, citing a source familiar with the upcoming trip, said Trump Jr. will not be meeting Greenlandic politicians and is instead traveling to the country to record video footage for a podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives for Trump Jr. did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment. Greenland, the world's largest island, is an autonomous territory of Denmark. Jessie Brinkman Evans/Getty Images Elon Musk, who is expected to help guide Trump's second term, has also weighed in, posting on X that "the people of Greenland should decide their future and I think they want to be part of America!" While Greenland residents hold Danish citizenship, the government manages local affairs. In response to President-Elect Trump's post in December, Greenland's Prime Minister, Mute B. Egede, said, "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our struggle for freedom." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a recent speech, Egede expressed hopes that the territory would pursue independence from Denmark. Hours after Trump's December post, the Danish government announced a huge boost in defense spending for Greenland. On Monday, King Frederik of Denmark updated the royal coat of arms to more prominently feature Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Trump, who will take office on January 20, has also referred to Canada as the "51st state." Read the original article on Business Insider Related video: Trump considers pardons for Jan. 6 attackers (The Hill) Donald Trump Jr. is planning to head to Greenland for a day-long trip just weeks after his father, President-elect Trump, said U.S. ownership of the Danish territory is an absolute necessity. A source familiar with the plan confirmed to The Hill that Trump Jr. would be visiting for a quick day-long trip to shoot some fun video content for podcasting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will not be meeting with any government officials or political figures on this visit, according to the source. The Hill has reached out to the president-elects team for comment. Trump renewed his calls to buy Greenland in a recent statement on Truth Social while announcing Ken Howery as his nominee to serve as ambassador to Denmark. 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 said in the Truth Social post. While Greenlands prime minister, Mute Egede, has since announced a desire to obtain independence from Denmark in the wake of Trumps comments, he pushed back on Trump and insisted that the island is not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Greenlandic peoples opportunity for independence has been adopted through the provisions of the Self-Government Act, thereby creating a legal basis for how independence can be achieved, Egede said in a New Year day speech in honor. He added that the island must break free from the shackles of colonialism and shape its own future. The president-elect first raised the idea of buying Greenland in late 2019, when he said the territory was strategically interesting, triggering an angry response from the then-Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Since being reelected, Trump has issued statements about taking over Greenland and the Panama Canal. Some have seen his Greenland talk as a nod to his national security interests, as the Arctic is considered key to countering Russia and China. Denmark recently announced a new package to boost security of the Arctic Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brett Samuels 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 Queen City News. Donald Trump Jr. is planning to head to Greenland for a daylong trip just weeks after his father, President-elect Trump, said U.S. ownership of the Danish territory is an absolute necessity. A source familiar with the plan confirmed to The Hill that Trump Jr. would visit for a quick daylong trip to shoot some fun video content for podcasting. He will not meet with any government officials or political figures on this visit, according to the source. The Hill has reached out to the president-elects team for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump renewed his calls to buy Greenland in a recent statement on Truth Social while announcing Ken Howery as his nominee to serve as ambassador to Denmark. 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 said in the Truth Social post. While Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede since has announced a desire to obtain independence from Denmark in the wake of Trumps comments, he pushed back on Trump and insisted the island is not for sale. The Greenlandic peoples opportunity for independence has been adopted through the provisions of the Self-Government Act, thereby creating a legal basis for how independence can be achieved, Egede said in a New Years Day speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that the island must break free from the shackles of colonialism and shape its own future The president-elect first raised the idea of buying Greenland in late 2019, when he said the territory was strategically interesting, triggering an angry response from the then-Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Since being reelected, Trump has issued statements about taking over Greenland and the Panama Canal. Some have seen his Greenland talk as a nod to his national security interests, as the Arctic is a considered key to countering Russia and China. Denmark recently announced a new package to boost security of the Arctic Island. In a statement on Truth Social on Monday evening, Trump confirmed that his son would be traveling to Denmarks North Atlantic territory adding that I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He doubled down on his previous comments adding that Greenland would benefit tremendously if and when it becomes part of the U.S. My son, Don Jr, and various representatives, will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. 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 said in a post. Brett Samuels contributed. Updated at 7:10 p.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. Its a big polar bear vs. Donald Trump Jr. He arrived in snowy Greenland on Tuesday on his fathers Trump Force One private plane, the latest sign of the president-elect's desire to take ownership of the vast Arctic island. But if the Danish kings latest move is anything to go by, the United States has a fight on its hands. King Frederik, who assumed the Danish throne after the abdication of Queen Margrethe II last year, has made a significant tweak to the royal coat of arms for the first time in more than 500 years, a move that was viewed by historians as a clear signal to Greenland and perhaps Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are all united and each of us committed for the kingdom of Denmark, the monarch said in his New Years address, adding, all the way to Greenland. The former Danish royal arms, left, established in 1972, and the latest arms by royal resolution on Dec. 20. The changes to the coat of arms, announced Jan. 1, see three historic crowns that represent the Kalmar Union of Denmark, Norway and Sweden replaced after 500 years. Instead the Danish territories Greenland and the Faroe Islands get their own quadrants, represented by a bear and a ram. Outlining the changes, the royal household explained that "the polar bear became Greenlands heraldic symbol under Frederik the 3rd in 1666." They are a statement and a symbolic signal to the populations of both places that they are significant (and equal) parts of the kingdom, Peter Aagaard, an associate professor at Roskilde University in Denmark, told NBC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland, the worlds largest island, sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic Ocean, and is closer to New York than it is to Copenhagen. It has been under Denmarks control since the 14th century but became a self-governing territory in 1979. The city of Ilulissat, Greenland. It is also home to a large U.S. Air Force base and major mineral reserves, catching the eye of Trump, who expressed a desire to buy the island during his first term in office. Both Greenland and Denmark firmly rejected Trumps proposal at the time, leading him to cancel a visit to Copenhagen. Since then, a debate has been brewing in both Denmark and Greenland about the island's future as part of the Danish Commonwealth, driven in part by revelations of misconduct by the former colonial power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My guess is that the coat of arms would have been changed despite the Trump interest of buying Greenland," Aagaard said, noting the "strong debate" and growing feeling of independence in Greenland," as well as the king's strong personal regard for the island. But Danish royal historian Lars Hovbakke Srensen said the king's move may have been a deliberate attempt to underline that "Greenland is a part of the Danish Realm," especially given the growing American interest in the island, which has a population of some 56,000 people. Trump Force One arrives Tuesday in Nuuk, Greenland. Donald Trump Jr. after arriving in Nuuk, Greenland on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump weighed in on the issue on Dec. 24, posting on Truth Social that the ownership and control of the Danish territory was an absolute necessity." Hours later, the Danish government announced it would boost defense spending for the island by a double digit billion amount, or at least $1.5 billion. The timing of that announcement was an irony of fate, according to Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen. But Trump has been undeterred. 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, he posted on Truth Social ahead of his sons visit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Jr.'s trip was set to last four to five hours, according to the islands permanent secretary for foreign affairs, Mininnguaq Kleist. We have not been briefed on the nature of his program, and therefore this is a private visit, Kleist told Reuters. Filming for @ArtoftheSurge in Greenland. President Trump just called into a lunch @DonaldJTrumpJr, @charliekirk11 and @SergioGor are having with the local community in Nuuk. pic.twitter.com/T1Hca62GQB Justin Wells (@justinbwells) January 7, 2025 Shortly after his arrival, Trump Jr. was filmed on a phone call with his father in a restaurant. As one of Trump Jr.'s team held up the phone, the president-elect could be heard saying that Greenland was a very special place. It needs security for itself, and it also needs security very much for the world, he said. We need security, and our country needs it and the whole world needs it, he added, before the crowd start applauding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Jr. replied that his team was learning a lot and that Greenland was incredibly beautiful. He added that they had received a spectacular welcome. The Danish Foreign Affairs Ministry told NBC News that it had noted the visit but did not comment further because it was not an official American visit. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, calling the United States Denmark's most important ally. Her response echoed the unequivocal stance of Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede, who told Trump in December that Greenland is not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet the feud could add to calls for Greenland's independence from Denmark, with proponents hoping to exploit the Trump interest to elevate their own political goal, rather than replace Danish authority with the Americans, Aagaard said. Egede has called on the territory to break free from the shackles of the colonial era, adding that it would soon adopt a new self-government act to chart its own future away from Denmark. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom, he said. But in Denmark, most politicians saw Trump Jrs visit as quite annoying, Aagaard said, adding that there is a clear Danish interest in maintaining Greenland as part of the Commonwealth, though the Danes are aware that Denmark can never defend Greenland alone." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com With less than two weeks until hes once again ensconced in the Oval Office, Donald Trump opened his first press conference of 2025 in his usual style with a laundry list of grievances against his political nemesis Joe Biden. The former president turned president-elect had ostensibly called a small group of reporters from a hand-picked selection of news outlets to his Mar-a-Lago residence to announce a new $20 billion investment in American data centers by an Emirati billionaire, Hussain Sajwani, with whom his eponymous real estate and hospitality firm has partnered on several Trump-branded projects in the Persian Gulf region. After pledging to ensure that any facilities built as a part of the project would get expedited review for permitting and unspecified exemptions from environmental regulations, Trump began accusing President Joe Biden of sabotaging the transition process by using rarely-invoked presidential authority to permanently shield 625 acres of ocean floor from oil drilling efforts. He accused Biden of attempting to block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for and claimed that the presidents actions, which legal experts say would take an act of Congress to overturn, will not stand, pledging to reverse them immediately even though he may not have the authority to do so legally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also blamed the 46th president for a host of ills, real or imagined, some new, some familiar. He repeated old grievances about windmills (which he has claimed are responsible for mass bird death and cancer) with a new twist about how their blades are not easily recyclable and blamed Biden for low water pressure in modern showers. He also suggested that the incumbent is somehow in favor of banning natural gas-powered heat and forcing electric heat upon unwilling Americans, and at one point offered up a bizarre and completely fictitious assertion that members of Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based Islamic militant group, were present at the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol (rather than his own supporters). Trump threatened to use his tariff policies as economic force to coerce Canada into giving up sovereignty and becoming part of the U.S. (AP) The familiar complaints and attacks on Biden would have been par for the course for Trump, who essentially spent most of Bidens term in office running a political operation meant to undermine his successor-turned-predecessors legitimacy and build support for his own return to the White House. But Trump soon moved on from casting aspersions on the man hell replace in office later this month and turned to making veiled threats of war on some of Americas close allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It started with a non-sequitur about the Panama Canal, which was built by American forces more than a century ago and turned over to the Panamanian government at the turn of this century under terms of a treaty negotiated by the late 39th president, Jimmy Carter. By coincidence, Trump began expounding on the treaty one of Carters signature foreign policy successes at the same moment that a military honor guard was preparing to load the late former presidents remains aboard one of the bespoke Boeing 747 aircraft used as presidential transports for a final trip to the nations capital. He accused Carter of having given away the canal and accused Panamanian authorities of turning over operation of the canal to the Peoples Republic of China while overcharging American vessels to transit the canal. Neither of Trumps claims are grounded in fact. The canal is operated by Panamanians, and his suggestion that the U.S. is being somehow overcharged has roots in the president-elects longstanding belief that fair treatment means preferential treatment. But he ominously suggested that the canals status was under discussion. Trump turned next to two more close American allies, Mexico and Canada, to again threaten to impose tariffs on imported goods from both nations notwithstanding the terms of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement he negotiated to much fanfare during his first four years in the White House. Trumps press conference was underway as former U.S. President Jimmy Carters casket was being transferred to Washington, D.C. (Getty Images) He claimed that the U.S. is not treated well by both countries on account of trade deficits that are largely the result of market forces. But he went further with respect to Americas northern neighbor by stating that the U.S. is somehow subsidizing Canada to the tune of about $200 billion a year, plus other things and suggesting that Canada, one of the original members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, lacks a sufficiently large military to defend itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect has made attacking Canada a frequent feature of his rhetoric in recent weeks, often suggesting that the former British dominion turned Commonwealth nation could avoid tariffs by voting to replace Charles III as Canadas head of state with the American president and becoming Americas 51st state. He also suggested that America needs to acquire Greenland from Danish control for unspecified national security reasons, returning to a theme hes expressed at times since his first term. But when pressed on whether he would rule out using military force violating the United Nations charter to take control of Greenland and Panama, Trump repeatedly refused to do so. Well, we need Greenland for national security purposes. Ive been told that for a long time, long before I even ran I mean, people have been talking about it for a long time. You have approximately 45,000 people there. People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security, he said. Trump ominously suggested that the canals status was under discussion. (AP) Trump went further by suggesting that Denmark should give up any claim to Greenland and allow some sort of plebiscite on joining the U.S. or face consequences for not doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Denmark wants to get to a conclusion, but nobody knows if they even have any right title or interest, the people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the United States. But if they did, if they did do that, then I would tariff Denmark at a very high level, he added. Trump also threatened to use his tariff policies as economic force to coerce Canada into giving up sovereignty and becoming part of the U.S. That would really be something you get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like, and it would also be much better for national security. Dont forget, we basically protect Canada, he said. Its unclear whether Trump is serious about pursuing coercive policies to force a trio of sovereign nations to give up their own right to self-determination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as he prepares to return to office, the incendiary comments represent a break from decades of American commitments to the post-Second World War international order in favor of an older paradigm, one where might makes right and where larger, more powerful countries can carve up the world into spheres of influence in which smaller nations are merely vassal states. Its not a big shift for Trump, who has long spoken of Americas alliances particularly NATO as protection rackets that provide too little value to the United States. But for the rest of the world, the president-elects words could signal a reversion from the law of civilized nations to the law of the jungle. Lawyers for Donald Trump and his former co-defendants are trying to block the imminent release of a final report by special counsel Jack Smith following his prosecution of the president-elect for his attempts to overturn election results and his withholding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago compound. An anticipated report follows Smiths November decision to effectively end the cases altogether after a years-long attempt to prosecute Trump for alleged crimes spelled out in hundreds of pages of evidence. The two federal cases against Trump have ended, but prosecutors are still trying to move forward with the charges against his co-defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira in the Mar-a-Lago case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Trumps lawyers filed a motion demanding Attorney General Merrick Garland to stop Smith from releasing the report and to fire Smith immediately. Special Counsel Jack Smith is expected to release a report on his prosecution of Donald Trump pending Attorney General Merrick Garlands approval (AFP via Getty Images) They also called Smith an out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor aiming to harm Trump politically. Accordingly, because Smith has proposed an unlawful course of action, you must countermand his plan and remove him promptly, Trumps lawyers Todd Blanche and John Lauro wrote. If Smith is not removed, then the handling of his report should be deferred to President Trumps incoming attorney general, consistent with the expressed will of the People, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith had planned to resign sometime before Trumps January 20 inauguration. The special counsel is preparing a two-volume confidential report for the attorney general, Smith wrote in a court filing on Tuesday. Smith wrote that Garland will not release the volume pertaining to the Mar-a-Lago case if he does at all before 10 a.m. January 10. He is expected to transmit that volume to the attorney generals office Tuesday. Jack Smiths final report is expected to detail his investigation into Donald Trumps attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Trump is now working to stop the release (AP) Trumps attorneys said they had briefly reviewed a draft of the report over the weekend in Smiths office in Washington, D.C. They wrote that the report described the efforts to upend the 2020 election as an unprecedented criminal effort, and that Trump, the head of the criminal conspiracies, harbored a criminal design, all of which they said was false. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawyers argued that releasing the report would violate Trumps presidential immunity as issued by the Supreme Court echoing legal arguments from his legal team to block his conviction and sentencing in his so-called hush money case in New York. Trump is scheduled to be sentenced in that case on January 10. Trumps attorneys also argued that Smith was unconstitutionally appointed to his role, reviving their successful arguments that led Trump-appointed District Judge Aileen Cannon to dismiss the classified documents case. The Final Report promises to be a one-sided, slanted report, relying nearly exclusively on evidence presented to a grand jury and subject to all requisite protections and which is known to Smith only as a result of his unconstitutional appointment in order to serve a singular purpose: convincing the public that everyone Smith charged is guilty of the crimes charged, the lawyers wrote. Smith could not immediately be reached for comment by The Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special counsels are required under Justice Department regulations to produce reports detailing their findings and charging decisions. Trump pleaded not guilty to charges filed against him in Florida accusing him of mishandling classified documents taken from the White House after he left office, and then obstructing government efforts to retrieve them. Federal prosecutors are still appealing Cannons dismissal of the charges against Nauta and De Oliveira. The president-elect was also charged with conspiracy and obstruction for his attempts to subvert the 2020 election. 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: Two sets of simulated data in each the tree columns from the three simulation models. The three treated units from the three clusters are in colors black, dark gray, and gray, respectively; the vertical line shows the treatment adoption time. Credit: Journal of the American Statistical Association (2024). DOI: 10.1080/01621459.2024.2406583 In states where medical marijuana is legal, payments from opioid manufacturers to physicians have decreased significantlysuggesting that marijuana may be emerging as a viable alternative to opioids for pain management, according to new research from the University at Buffalo School of Management. Available online ahead of publication in the Journal of the American Statistical Association, the study examined the impact of medical marijuana legalization on the financial incentives that opioid manufacturers provide to physicians. These payments often include consulting fees, conference travel and other incentivespractices that pharmaceutical companies have faced criticism for using to influence medical decisions. "The availability of new pain management options can change the financial dynamics between drug companies and health care providers," says study co-author Wreetabrata Kar, Ph.D., assistant professor of marketing in the UB School of Management. "Our findings indicate that medical marijuana is increasingly viewed as a substitute for opioids in chronic pain treatment, with the potential to transform pain management practices and help mitigate the opioid crisis that has profoundly affected communities across the U.S." The researchers analyzed quarterly data from 201417 on direct payments from opioid manufacturers to physicians using their new penalized synthetic control method, a robust tool for estimating causal effects with observational data. This information included both pre- and post-legalization of medical marijuana in states across the U.S. mandated by the Sunshine Act, which requires such payments to be reported to ensure transparency. They found that direct payments from opioid manufacturers to physicians significantly decreased after states passed medical marijuana laws. The decline was particularly notable for pain medicine specialists, suggesting that physicians may be shifting away from prescribing opioids in favor of recommending medical marijuana where it is legal. The effects of medical marijuana legalization are also influenced by community demographics. Payments from opioid manufacturers to doctors decreased in lower-income areas, areas with higher Black populations, and areas where the median age of the population was between 30 and 40 years. "Lower income regions tend to have higher rates of chronic pain and opioid misuse, making them key areas for potential substitution with medical marijuana," says Kar. "Black patients are also less likely to be prescribed opioids for pain, and younger populations may be more open to alternative treatments, which could explain the different impacts of marijuana legalization in these communities." More information: Bikram Karmakar et al, Using Penalized Synthetic Controls on Truncated Data: A Case Study on Effect of Marijuana Legalization on Direct Payments to Physicians by Opioid Manufacturers, Journal of the American Statistical Association (2024). DOI: 10.1080/01621459.2024.2406583 The News Donald Trump will start his second term in a far more dominant position than his first: The Democratic resistance is largely silenced, the legacy media is eroded and the Republican Party is reshaped in his image. Now the president-elect may need some new adversaries. After all, he thrives on battles. During Trumps Tuesday press conference, he bashed the Biden administrations last-minute move to bar lands from drilling, entertained using military force or economic coercion to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal and vowed all hell will break out in the Middle East unless Israeli hostages are freed before he takes office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more than an hour, he leaned into the fresh challenges that his team sees, laying bare his need for an enemy. There are plenty of battles in front of us, one Trump adviser told Semafor. Internal fights are gone, and the external fights are focused. Between those two things, the fighting spirit of Donald Trump and the men and women around him will have plenty of places to go. Even if his White House is done with internal fights, his party may not be. Trumps sway over the GOP is headed for an immediate test on Wednesday when he meets with Senate Republicans about how to implement his Hill agenda, which is stalled for the moment as lawmakers debate whether to tackle tax and border policy in one or two bills. Hes certainly facing nowhere near the pushback from Democrats or the GOP establishment that he did eight years ago. And the conspicuous lack of an anti-Trump movement feels a bit like the upside down to his early first-term allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., for example, recalled being dogged by liberal activists as soon as he was elected to the House alongside Trump in 2016. Lately, he said, the progressive movements been rocked back so much, you can feel it. So have Trump skeptics within the GOP, whose ranks eight years ago included then-leaders Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell. The attitude of House and Senate leadership toward President Trump is night-and-day different, Banks told Semafor. This time, he has leadership thats in line, thats determined to work with them, and last time we had leadership that worked against him. In addition to clawing back Bidens lame-duck oil and gas ban a fight that could be difficult to win Trump aides anticipate a brawl over tax cuts, albeit one that is unlikely to involve Democrats in any meaningful way. Perhaps their most promising second-term battle is with the depleted legacy media: The incoming Trump administration is quietly working to revamp the White House briefing room in a bid for coverage that better reflects how most voters consume news. In other words: Podcasters welcome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes not on the verge of winning energy, and hes not on the verge of winning tax cuts. But he is closer to victory against the legacy media than any other battle, the Trump adviser noted. Know More Many people close to Trump say hell govern largely the same as he did during his first term. But some Republicans who work with him today say that 2025 Trump bolstered by a changed party, fresh off a decisive victory, with four years of governing under his belt will operate very differently in Washington than 2017 Trump. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., argued Trump is not the same guy, for the better. Youre going to see Trump 47 be so much more seasoned, she told Semafor. And that doesnt mean that he doesnt understand principle. He just understands process so much more. And he does seem just a little softer around the edges even with Democrats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, Trump is being deferential to congressional Republicans as they wrangle over tactics to achieve what would be his marquee legislative achievement this year. But hes still clearly in search of a proverbial cage to rattle, even if its in his own ranks. He unexpectedly derailed a Republican-backed spending bill via tweet alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance just weeks ago and plans to pardon Capitol rioters, in addition to coveting more US territory. He might even have a new chance to pick an internal fight later this week, during Mar-a-Lago meetings with House members. Shelby and Burgess View Trump clearly relishes having a foil. While hes entering his second administration with less resistance from Democrats and members of his own party, he and his team have already mapped out areas where they anticipate big fights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the changed landscape also reflects a new reality for a politician known as a disruptor: Trump, after nearly a decade of centrality in US politics, is now the status quo. His unusual governing style and aggressive posture in the bully pulpit has made the entire nation more desensitized to controversy. During his first term, for example, Trumps refusal to rule out military action to acquire the Danish territory of Greenland would have prompted days of coverage. On Tuesday, it landed for many seasoned Trump watchers as a momentary rhetorical flourish. Room for Disagreement For some Republicans, Trumps most unconventionally combative moves have always been distractions from the real work, rather than a core part of his political identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The press some of yall, not all of you like to take it literally, because its a lot more fun and gets a lot more clicks, said Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. Historically, he added, very few of the things that spun around and trended for 24 hours or a week actually came to pass after Trump floated them. Except for some good policies. Notable Trump also has new figures around him that could influence his style in ways we havent seen before: Elon Musk, for example, is often seen at Trumps side these days, with critics dubbing him the shadow president, per the Washington Post. Incoming Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is cutting down the number of staffers with direct access to the president, NBC reports, a bid to keep the palace intrigue to a minimum. Donald Trump failed on Tuesday to persuade a New York appeals court to block his Friday sentencing in the Manhattan hush money case. Trump sent his personal attorney Todd Blanche, who is slated to become deputy attorney general of the Justice Department in a few weeks, to an intermediate New York state appeals court in Manhattan to try to stave off sentencing. But in a 30-minute emergency hearing, Blanche struggled to make any headway with Judge Ellen Gesmer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the core of Blanches argument lay two points: that the Supreme Court had ruled that Trump was immune over the summer, and that holding sentencing on Friday would unduly inconvenience him as he prepares for the presidency. Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the spring trial in which a jury found Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, had earlier blocked several Trump attempts to dismiss the case. Those included arguments on a variety of tacks, but after the Supreme Court held in July that presidents cannot be prosecuted for the vast majority of official acts, he and his attorneys repeatedly tried to persuade Merchan that it applied to the hush money case. At arguments on Tuesday, Gesmer repeatedly asked Blanche about his arguments around immunity: Did he have any support for a notion that presidential immunity extends to president-elects? Blanche conceded: no, before adding that there had never been a case like this before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gesmer emphasized to Blanche that she did not accept his arguments that some evidence introduced at trial having to do with conversations with White House officials were enough to constitute official acts under the Supreme Courts ruling. I am dealing with alleged immunity of a president-elect, she said at one point, distinguishing that from the immunity conferred to a sitting president. The Trump attorney also tried to throw various hypotheticals at Gesmer. Trump, he said could be in prison until 12:01 PM on Jan. 20, at which point he would become President, and then depart. Trump could be blocked from preparing for the presidency by spending the rest of the transition incarcerated, Blanche said. Gesmer told Blanche that she did not find the hypotheticals very helpful. At the end of the day, she said, Trump had chosen to delay sentencing until the last minute. The proceeding was initially scheduled for July, and then delayed into September, November and, finally, to Jan. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This proceeding could be concluded before his inauguration, she remarked. Around 30 minutes after oral arguments concluded, Gesmer issued a ruling denying Trumps motion for a stay. It leaves the former and future president with few options. Gesmer set reply deadlines to her order on Jan. 21; Trump could file further motions at the New York State Court of Appeals, or even ask for the Supreme Court to intervene. But its far from clear that any of those motions would lead anywhere. As of this writing, sentencing is still on for Friday. Trade friction between the U.S. and China hasnt led to the end of globalization. Instead, it has changed the flow of goods and services around the world, to the great benefit of some countries and the disadvantage of others. The key factor in determining the effects of the U.S.-China decoupling on other countries lies in whether those countries are able to produce goods that can substitute for the goods made in the two dueling giants. That has been the case for Mexico, South Korea and Thailand, which have all benefited from the competition between Washington and Beijing by substituting goods previously made in China for the U.S. market. For this reason, to prevail in the bilateral trade war, the incoming administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will need to consider how its policies affect Washingtons allies, partners and neighbors. Victory will go to the side that is best at persuading other countries that its version of globalization is the most attractive and alluring. In the past few months, however, China has been much smarter and more strategic in dealing with both the standoff with the U.S. and the effort at persuasion among third countries. To begin with, it has retaliated against the U.S. for already imposed trade restrictions, while also announcing a raft of measures to better insulate the Chinese economy against new tariffs, in anticipation of even more conflict under Trump. In December, China announced an anti-trust investigation into chip company Nvidia and banned the export of some rare earth minerals crucial to the production of advanced semiconductor chips and other products. Just last week, Beijing announced new export controls targeting 28 U.S. companies, most in the defense sector. And Chinese media reported that Beijing may also restrict the export of lithium battery technologies, which would hurt plans for Chinas automotive industry to expand globally but might keep manufacturing and key processing of needed inputs in China, at a time when the domestic economy is struggling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, over the past year, Beijing has sought to cultivate better relations in many parts of the world. In June, China lifted coercive trade sanctions against Australia. In November, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Latin America for the APEC and G20 summits as part of Beijings broader overtures to the region. While there, Xi tried to position China as the leader and defender of globalization against an isolationist and selfish United States, as he did at Davos in 2017 days before Trump first took office. To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. Chinas efforts to split alliances and reduce resistance to Chinese imports and investment will be made all the easier if Washington takes a combative approach to all countries in a bid to boost U.S. manufacturing at their expense. China has certain advantages in this battle for the rest of the worlds sympathy on trade and globalization. First, Xi does not need to worry about a domestic political backlash over his strong support for globalization. While some economists in China have worried about the outsourcing of Chinese manufacturing to other countries, either to avoid tariffs or to build more political support for Chinese investment in important markets, Xi does not need to deal with trade unions in the event of domestic job losses or plant closures. Contrast this to the recent decision by the administration of outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to reject Nippon Steels proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel, which was in large part driven by concerns over the support of the U.S. labor movement. Second, Xi can much more easily rally the state sector around new infrastructure and investment projects that curry favor in places like Latin America and Africa, where governments are still eager to attract investment in new rail, roads and ports. The incoming Trump administration, on the other hand, has announced plans for punitive measures against close trading partners, floated the idea of taking back the Panama Canal and engaged in a very public internal squabble over the future of the H1-B visa program, which provides the U.S. economy with highly skilled international workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This all bodes ill for the United States for two reasons. First, Trumps use of bombastic displays of pique to gain leverage over other countries alienates many world leaders and casts Washington as a bully. China was severely punished in global public opinion polls for similar attempts to punish countries for perceived transgressions, from South Koreas deployment of U.S.-made THAAD missile defense systems to Australias request for an open investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this latest round of the U.S.-China trade war, Xi has learned from those lessons, using more carrots than sticks in recent trips to Latin America and Europe. Second, the early fight over H1-B workers in the U.S. reveals a Trumpist MAGA movement that is internally divided on globalization and the U.S. role in the global economy. Trumps advisers and appointees include isolationists and protectionists, but there are also influential advisers, such as Elon Musk, and influential CEOs, such as Apples Tim Cook, whose companies are highly dependent on manufacturing abroad, including in China. Musk and Cook do not want to see Trump wielding tariffs against countries they see as new destinations for their manufacturing, but they also do not want to be the target of Beijings retaliation against U.S. companiesparticularly their ownthat have been successful in China. This internal fight will further delay any clarity on the impact that the second Trump presidency will have on the global economy. As the world waits to see exactly how Trumps love of tariffs will be deployed, recent reporting regarding his intention to use a universal tariff of 10 percent to 20 percent on all imported goods in certain key sectors exemplifies the difference in the strategies pursued by him and Xi. Even if it is restricted to some sectors, rather than applied to all imported goods, a universal tariff on all countries will punish the ones that have so far benefited from the relocation of manufacturing out of China, including Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam. This represents a rejection of Bidens attempts at friendshoring, aimed at winning sympathy in the strategic competition with China, in the hopes of bringing manufacturing back to the United States. But in doing so, Trump risks making enemies all around. Xi, on the other hand, will continue trying to divide and rule. Chinese companies will make bids to open new manufacturing sites in key countries, such as Mexico and Spain, that should be Washingtons natural partners. Battery technologies will be licensed to some countries, but not others. And Chinas efforts to split alliances and reduce resistance to Chinese imports and investment will be made all the easier if Washington takes a combative approach to all countries in a bid to boost U.S. manufacturing at their expense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This in turn highlights the limitations of Trumps approach to trade and international relations more generally. He still doesnt seem to grasp that, to win the U.S.-China trade war and the broader competition for global leadership, how he treats other countries will be just as important as how he treats Beijing. Mary Gallagher is the Marilyn Keough Dean of the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame. The post Trump Has Lost the Plot on the U.S.-China Trade War appeared first on World Politics Review. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday said Michigan will be one of the states receiving part of at least $20 billion expected to be invested in "massive new data centers" to increase computing power. Holding a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump introduced Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani, saying his property development company, DAMAC Properties, will invest "at least $20 billion over a very short period of time" and possibly much more than that. Neither Trump nor Sajwani provided details about how many data centers would be built, how much computing power they would generate or how many people would be employed. But Trump said the initial phase of the project will occur in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas, as well as Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: AG Nessel vows to fight Trump if his policies violate legal rights of Michigan residents More: What's the most American-made vehicles you can buy? New study reveals them. Sajwani said his company had been waiting for four years to make such an announcement and Trump said it wouldn't have happened if he hadn't been reelected in November. Trump also promised expedited environmental and other regulatory reviews in the DAMAC project and any other where more than $1 billion is invested in the U.S. Reuters and other media outlets have reported that technology companies and their partners have been focused on increasing mammoth data centers at a time when artificial intelligence applications require expansive computing power and there has been growth in remote work and other technological and productivity applications online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Management consulting company McKinsey has estimated that worldwide spending on electrical and mechanical systems for data centers is expected to surpass $250 billion by 2030, Reuters reported. Issues have been raised, however, about the enormous energy needs for big data centers as well as other environmental impacts. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently signed into law a bill exempting data center equipment from the states use tax. Another bill headed her way would provide a sales tax exemption for data centers. The legislation garnered some strong opposition from Democrats who share environmentalists fears that the energy- and water-intensive data center facilities could imperil Michigans new clean energy targets. Free Press staff writer Clara Hendrickson contributed to this report. Contact Todd Spangler: tspangler@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter@tsspangler. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Trump: Michigan set to get part of $20 billion in new data centers Were less than two weeks out from the initial sprint of the second Trump administration and the incoming president is now seeking to push aside one of his biggest hurdles. In the clearest sign yet that Donald Trump is serious about pursuing an aggressive legislative agenda in his first year in office, he is taking an active role in managing the future of the House Republican Conference. Where once he was at arms length of Republican congressional leadership, Trump has leaned in to his role as leader of the GOP and now casts a long shadow over the House and Senate Republican conferences. His role in the House has become something of a babysitter. As the chamber met last week to formally elect a speaker, the incoming president all the way from Mar-a-Lago remained intimately involved in shutting down any attempts to organize resistance against Mike Johnson, the incumbent. Two holdouts, Keith Self and Ralph Norman, were contacted repeatedly by Trump during the debate over Johnsons re-election, though they and their colleagues disputed that Trumps calls were the deciding factor. Donald Trump wants to avoid the kind of legislative defeat his party suffered in 2017, the last time his party had unified control of the government (Getty Images) At the same time, he made very clear to Johnson with a late-game endorsement that his support hinges on delivering wins for the presidents team and toeing the line on policy and process matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of how much pull the incoming president actually has over GOP members of the House or even the Senate, which varies by individual, the message from Mar-a-Lago is clear: The president plans to run the show. His next move is aimed at making sure the same Republicans who have caused headaches for Johnson over the past year do not remain a problem in the first year of his presidency, which is typically the most productive. News outlets reported this week that the president-elect is gathering Republicans in leadership as well as in key caucuses like the conservative Freedom Caucus to his Florida estate for meetings ahead of his inauguration on January 20. Hell also be in Washington on Wednesday for the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, and will meet that day with members of the Senate Republican caucus, now led by John Thune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This all comes as Republicans are plotting their first big legislative move: a massive budget and tax bill set to be passed through the reconciliation process which will include an extension of the 2017 GOP tax platform. The bill will require unified Republican caucuses in the Senate and House in particular to pass, a difficult prospect given their differences over some tax and spending issues including SALT deductions. Thune, a McConnell acolyte whose election to majority leader in the Senate is a sign of the caucuss residual institutionalist bent, has also cautioned in recent days that the president-elect will need to temper his expectations for a deportation program with what is realistic, a sign that another battle could be approaching. Trump made it clear to Johnson that his support hinges on delivering wins for the presidents team (Getty Images) More than anything else, what Trump really wants is to avoid the humiliation of his defeat on the issue of repealing the Affordable Care Act, which Republicans tried and failed to do away with in 2017. That historic Senate vote by John McCain (along with Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski) dooming the GOP bill, which already was set to leave large parts of the Act intact, sapped the White Houses political capital and contributed to the administrations failure to pass any major policies through Congress before the Democrats retook power in the 2018 elections. Republicans, especially Trumps team, are wary of the fact that the razor-thin margin in the House makes it very possible, even likely, that the Democrats will retake control in the next election cycle. He understands the enormity of the situation and the unique opportunity we have right now, Rep. Kevin Hern of Oklahoma told CNN yesterday. What he also understands is, we dont have the gift of time. Donald Trump once again Tuesday promised major pardons for those involved in attacking the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, including for people charged with violent offenses. During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump was asked specifically about whether he plans to follow through on the promise hes been making throughout his entire second terms campaign, to which he promptly responded that he and his team are looking into it. The president-elect first said that 24 or 28 people connected to the FBI have since been exposed for having a hand in planning the riots, parroting a conspiracy theory that his own pick to lead the FBI, Kash Patel, floated back in 2022. He then claimed that Hezbollah was involved, but offered no evidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So well be looking at the whole thing, but Ill be making major pardons, he said. When later pressed on whether hed pardon anyone who attacked police officers in the riots, Trump didnt actually offer an answer, instead mourning Ashli Babbitt, a member of the Jan. 6 crowd who attacked the Capitol who was killed, before downplaying whether or not the event qualified as an insurrection. This would be the only insurrection in history where people went in as insurrectionists with not one gun, he said. Elsewhere in the press conference, Trump once again criticized Mexico, before promising a name change to the gulf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring, he said. That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. And its appropriate. You can watch Trumps full press conference here. The post Trump Once Again Says He Will Pardon Jan. 6 Rioters, Teases Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to America appeared first on TheWrap. Four years ago, supporters of then-President Donald Trump gathered for a rally in Washington D.C. and marched on the Capitol where Congress was in a joint session to certify the votes for President Joe Biden's decisive victory. After fiery speeches from Trump and others, the rioters stormed the Capitol, attacking police and breaking windows and doors to get in where they roamed the halls, vandalized offices and threatened the lives of Vice-President Mike Pence, who refused to overturn the election results, and members of Congress, many of whom fled or barricaded themselves in their offices. During the attack, more than 150 police officers were injured, many permanently. Four people died in relation to the riot. A Capitol police officer died of strokes the day after and four others have taken their own lives since then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, whose 2024 win was certified Monday, received his second impeachment by the House for his role in the insurrection and federal criminal charges were filed against him, although they were dropped upon his successful re-election. Nearly 1,600 people have been charged, more than 1,251 people have been convicted or pleaded guilty and 645 have been sentenced to prison, with punishments ranging from a few days to 22 years, according to the Justice Department. The state with the most people charged? Florida. Trump has repeatedly vowed to pardon what he has referred to as unfairly treated "political prisoners" and "hostages" as soon as he can once he is back in the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well be looking very, very seriously at full pardons because we cant let that happen, Trump said in September 2022. To many, an apology. Theyve been so badly treated. He told CNN in 2023 that he was inclined to pardon many of them, although "a couple of them, probably, they got out of control." In April 2024, Trump told Time magazine he would absolutely consider pardoning every Jan. 6 defendant. Karoline Leavitt, who Trump has chosen as his White House spokesperson, issued a statement saying he would "make pardon decisions on a case-by-case basis." USA TODAY reported a "surge" of suspects seeking to delay their trials until after Jan. 20. Which Jan. 6 rioters were from Florida? As of Jan. 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice lists more than 140 people with Florida connections charged in the Jan. 6 riots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Penalties range from years in prison to time served and community service, depending on the severity of the crimes and the cooperation of the suspects. The lengthiest sentences went to people convicted of seditious conspiracy. Enrique Tarrio of Miami, the former top leader of the Proud Boys, was sentenced to 22 years in prison. Fellow Proud Boys leader Joe Biggs of Ormond Beach received 17 years. In the list below, links to extremist ties have been noted in parentheses. Several Jan, 6 suspects were arrested in Florida, including Jonathan Munafo of Albany, New York (arrested in Orlando); Israel Easterday of Munfordville, Kentucky (arrested in Miami), and Jeremy Rodgers of Midland, Michigan (arrested in Orlando). Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, contributed to this story. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Will Trump pardon the Jan. 6 rioters from Florida? List is over 140 US President-elect Donald Trump wants the Gulf of Mexico to be renamed the Gulf of America. "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring," he told a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Tuesday. "What a beautiful name. And it's appropriate. It's appropriate." The name of the gulf on the south coast of the US and east coast of Mexico has been in use since the 16th century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A renaming would require diplomatic negotiations with Mexico and possibly Cuba given the tip of the island nation can be said to be in the gulf. Trump previously suggested renaming North America's highest mountain - Denali - back to its previous moniker of Mount McKinley. The mountain was officially named Denali under Trump's first predecessor, Democrat Barack Obama, at the request of the state of Alaska after years of dispute over cultural sensitivities. Trump will be sworn in as president for a second time on January 20. (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Donald Trump is opposing the release of Justice Department Special Counsel Jack Smiths final report, which his lawyers say accuses Trump of engaging in an unprecedented criminal effort. Most Read from Bloomberg A new court filing to the Florida judge who tossed the case accusing Trump of mishandling top secret documents confirms that Smith is close to finalizing and perhaps has already finished his much-anticipated report on the two criminal probes into Trumps conduct. Trumps lawyers and other defense attorneys were allowed to read a copy only weeks before Trump is to be inaugurated Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is no longer a defendant in the documents case after Smith ended both cases against him after the election, citing longstanding Justice Department policy against prosecuting sitting presidents. But lawyers for Trumps former co-defendants in the Florida case filed papers asking US District Judge Aileen Cannon to issue an emergency order barring Attorney General Merrick Garland or any other Justice Department official from releasing the report to the public. They wrote that there was reason to believe the report would come out within the next few days. Cannon issued a controversial ruling last year that dismissed the case against Trump on the basis that Garlands appointment of Smith was unconstitutional. Smiths office was in the process of appealing that ruling when Trump was reelected in November. Smiths Timeline Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A letter that Trumps lawyers sent to Garland on Monday expressing their opposition to the reports release was included with Mondays court filing. A spokesperson for Smiths office declined to comment. Tuesday morning, Smiths office filed a brief response that confirmed that the two-volume report is being finalized and provided the judge with a timeline for next steps as the office drafted a full reply to the defendants request. Smith wouldnt send the document to Garland until early Tuesday afternoon at the soonest, the government said, and Garland hadnt decided whether he would release either section. If Garland planned to disclose the volume about the Florida case, it wouldnt happen before Friday. Defense lawyers were allowed to review the report in person at Smiths office in Washington, according to the filing, and did so in the past week. Trumps lawyers said in their letter that the report alleges that the former president was the head of the criminal conspiracies and harbored a criminal design. They called those accusations false. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separate from the classified documents cases, Smiths team also indicted Trump on charges that he illegally tried to obstruct the 2020 presidential election. Both cases became mired in appeals and other legal fights and were nowhere close to a trial when Trump won reelection. Smith was appealing Cannons dismissal of the documents case. Meanwhile, the US Supreme Court had ruled that Trump was entitled to sweeping immunity against prosecution for official acts as president and sent the 2020 case back to a federal judge in Washington to determine how much of that indictment could go forward. Confidential Report Smith is required under Justice Department rules to submit a confidential report to Garland at the conclusion of his work explaining the prosecution or declination decisions reached by the Special Counsel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garland has the option of making the report public and did so with another special counsel probe that explored President Joe Bidens handling of classified information. Although Smith was no longer pressing charges against Trump, his office continued to appeal Cannons dismissal of the classified documents case against the remaining co-defendants, Waltine Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, who were accused of being part of a conspiracy with Trump to obstruct federal officials efforts to get the materials back. Trump is expected to direct Justice Department officials to shut down any pending aspects of the case once he takes office. Lawyers for Nauta and De Oliveira on Monday asked Cannon to step in and block the release at least until the appeal is resolved and theres a final judgment in the case. They also asked Cannon to stop Smith from sharing the report with anyone, including Garland. Trumps lawyers who include two of his picks for top positions at the Justice Department, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove argued in their letter to Garland that no report should be prepared or released, and Smith should be removed, including for even suggesting that course of action given his obvious political motivations and desire to lawlessly undermine the transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for Nauta and De Oliveira also made a filing Tuesday with the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals asking for an emergency order to prevent Garland, Smith or anyone at the Justice Department from issuing the final report. The Final Report promises to be a one-sided, slanted report that serves a singular purpose: attempting to convince the public that everyone Smith charged is guilty of the charged crimes, according to the filing. A footnote in the appeals court filing says Trump will seek to participate in the motion before Cannon for an emergency injunction to stop the release of Smiths report. --With assistance from Chris Strohm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with filing in appeals court.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President-elect Donald Trump found a powerful ally in Elon Musk, the tech mogul who infused his 2024 campaign with a quarter of a billion dollars. But Trump might be getting tired of Musks seemingly constant presence, according to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman. Haberman said on Mondays episode of the podcast On with Kara Swisher that Musks political rise hasnt surprised her, as Trump equates wealth with intelligence hence the two mens bromance. But, she said, Musk likely hasnt realized yet that Trump is a one-ring circus. And Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot, she continued. Jonathan Swan and I reported recently with Ryan Mac that Musk has been staying at this cottage near Mar-a-Lago that rents typically for more than $2,000 a night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haberman, Swan and Mac reported last week that Musk has been staying at Banyan Cottage a few hundred feet from Trumps main residence at the Florida resort, and that he has been sitting in on phone calls with foreign leaders and attending personnel meetings for Trumps incoming administration. Haberman said Monday that Musk has really parked himself in Trumps face, but joked that its unlikely the Tesla CEO will move into the Lincoln Bedroom with the president-elect. I think hes going to try to have as much proximity to Trump as possible, Haberman added. That requires being given an office on the White House campus, either in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, which is adjacent to the White House, or the West Wing proper. She ultimately wagered that Musk wont have an office on campus, however. Elon Musk and Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago during an America First Policy Institute gala in November. Alex Brandon/Associated Press Trump announced plans in November to nominate Musk as co-director of the Department of Government Efficiency, a federal advisory group aimed at slashing supposedly wasteful government spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk promoted Trump during his presidential run on X (formerly Twitter), the platform that he acquired for $44 billion in 2022. He later joined Trump on the campaign trail, prompting concern from Democrats about his influential position and earning the trending nickname President Musk on X. It definitely bothers him, Haberman said Monday about Trump. The President Musk line was always going to be a way to get him. And I mean, Trumps not a wind-up toy, but there certainly are very specific things that can [anger] him. And that was one of them. The headlines about President Musk certainly seemed to pique Trump, who is not known for his generosity in sharing the spotlight. Last month, he dismissed the idea that hes taken a back seat to Musk as one of his adversaries hoaxes. Related... This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain A combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) controls pain after wisdom tooth removal better than opioids, according to a Rutgers Health study that could change how dentists treat post-surgical pain. The trial in more than 1,800 patients found that those given a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen experienced less pain, better sleep and higher satisfaction compared with those receiving the opioid hydrocodone with acetaminophen. "We think this is a landmark study," said Cecile Feldman, dean of Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and lead author of the study. "The results actually came in even stronger than we thought they would." Dentists, who rank among the nation's leading prescribers of opioids, wrote more than 8.9 million opioid prescriptions in 2022. For many young adults, dental procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction are their first exposure to opioid medications. "There are studies out there to show that when young people get introduced to opioids, there's an increased likelihood that they're going to eventually use them again, and then it can lead to addiction," said study co-investigator Janine Fredericks-Younger, adding that opioid overdoses kill more than 80,000 Americans each year. To compare opioid and non-opioid pain relief, the researchers conducted a randomized trial on patients undergoing surgical removal of impacted wisdom teeth, a common procedure that typically causes moderate to severe pain. Subgroup analysis according to sex: female (A) and male (B). Credit: The Journal of the American Dental Association (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2024.10.014 Half the patients received hydrocodone with acetaminophen. The other half got a combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Patients rated their pain levels and other outcomes, such as sleep quality, over the week following surgery. Results in The Journal of the American Dental Association showed the non-opioid combination provided superior pain relief during the peak-pain period in the two days after surgery. Patients taking the non-opioid medications also reported better sleep quality on the first night and less interference with daily activities throughout recovery. Patients who received the over-the-counter combo were only half as likely as the opioid patients to require additional "rescue" pain medication. They also reported higher overall satisfaction with their pain treatment. "We feel pretty confident in saying that opioids should not be prescribed routinely and that if dentists prescribe the non-opioid combination, their patients are going to be a lot better off," Feldman said. The study's size and design make it particularly notable. With more than 1,800 participants across five clinical sites, it's one of the largest studies of its kind. It also aimed to reflect real-world medication use rather than the tightly controlled conditions of many smaller pain studies. "We were looking at the effectivenessso how does it work in real life, taking into account what people really care about," said Feldman, referring to the study's focus on sleep quality and the ability to return to work. The findings align with recent recommendations from the American Dental Association to avoid opioids as first-line pain treatment. Feldman said she hopes they will change prescribing practices. "For a while, we've been talking about not needing to prescribe opioids," Feldman said. "This study's results are such that there is no reason to be prescribing opioids unless you've got those special situations, like medical conditions preventing the use of ibuprofen or acetaminophen." Members of the research team said they hope to expand their work to other dental procedures and pain scenarios. Other researchers at the school are testing cannabinoids for managing dental pain. "These studies not only guide us on how to improve current dental care," said Feldman, "but also on how we can better train future dentists here at Rutgers, where we constantly refine our curriculum in light of science." More information: Cecile A. Feldman et al, Nonopioid vs opioid analgesics after impacted third-molar extractions, The Journal of the American Dental Association (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2024.10.014 Journal information: Journal of the American Dental Association Donald Trump ranted about Joe Bidens 625 million acre offshore drilling ban in the Atlantic and wrongly claimed it covered almost the whole ocean. Take an acre, you have a house on a half-acre or a quarter-acre, or an acre, you have a big deal, the President-elect exclaimed during a wild press conference on Tuesday. Now you multiply that by 625 million acres. Thats like... it feels like the whole ocean! However, Trumps math was off by some margin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to National Geographic, the Atlantic Ocean covers just over 41 million square miles which is the equivalent of around 26.3 billion acres. Those 625 million acres represent only around two percent of 26.3 billion acres not quite the whole ocean as Trump claimed. It comes after Biden, whose term expires in two weeks, used his 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. The President-elect made the wild claim about the size of the Atlantic Ocean during a press conference on Tuesday (AP) Around 625 million acres of federal waters were withdrawn from energy exploration by the president in a move that may require an act of Congress to undo. Trump has previously vowed to swiftly undo Bidens ban, as well as numerous other policies. Im going to put it back on day one," Trump previously told reporters at his private club in Florida, pledging to take it to the courts if we need to." 625 million acres is only around two percent of 26.3 billion acres, not quite the whole ocean as the President-elect claimed. (AP) A favorite Trump refrain during campaign rallies was to drill baby, drill, one of his louder applause lines on the 2024 trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Trump also said that Bidens offshore drilling limitation part of a series of final actions in office by the Biden administration was undermining his own plans once back in the Oval Office. You know, they told me that were going to do everything possible to make this transition to the new administration very smooth," Trump complained on Tuesday. Its not smooth. However, Bidens team has extended access and courtesies to the Trump team that the Republican former president initially denied Biden after his 2020 election victory. Trumpsincoming chief of staff Susie Wiles told Axios in an interview published Monday that Biden chief of staff Jeff Zients has been very helpful. (Bloomberg) -- Its been a while since Denmark has been the object of Donald Trumps enduring obsession with Greenland and needing to remind the returning president repeatedly that the worlds largest island isnt for sale. Most Read from Bloomberg Its a fixation that borders on the farcical. Speaking at a news conference on Tuesday, he threatened to levy tariffs on Denmark at a very high level and when goaded with a question, he declined to rule out the use of military force to get his prize. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Can Trump Buy Greenland? What to Know Besides No: QuickTake For the property mogul turned politician, it is as it was back in 2019, a large real estate deal. In his first term, the fetishization of this self-ruling Arctic territory thats part of Denmark was bewildering. Some thought it was a joke, a bit like Canada now hearing over and over again that it could become part of the US. When he left office, the hope was that the unrequited attention would end. But Trump is back and his interest has intensified. His son, Donald Trump Jr., visited Greenland on a private one-day trip on Tuesday and had preemptively rejected speculation he was on a scouting mission. Then his father took to his social media platform to say this is a deal that must happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to respond or whether to simply ignore the provocations poses a test for Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and for Europes most seasoned politicians, who have been bombarded by a series of pointed barbs, not just from Trump but also from Elon Musk. GLOBAL REACT: US-Denmark Trade Data Flags Potential Pain Points The 47-year-old Frederiksen is one of a handful of European leaders such as Frances Emmanuel Macron who have some experience dealing with Trumps diplomatic whims. She had been in power for only a couple of months when she stood up to him the first time over Greenland and in a fit of pique he scrapped a state visit to Denmark. Danes generally support the union with Greenland. A survey published Tuesday by TV2 showed 58% want Greenland to remain a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, with only 28% saying it should become independent. Meanwhile, eight in ten respondents said the union benefits Greenland while only 53% said its an advantage for Denmark. Roughly half of Greenlands government budget is financed through a direct subsidy from Denmark, amounting to about $500 million a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland has a population of just 55,000, mainly located in small cities and villages by the western and eastern coastlines. Its size is three times greater than Texas, making it one of the worlds most sparsely populated areas. Greenland has become a source of growing tension between the US and Denmark allies in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization after Trump last month resurfaced a five-year-old idea of wanting to buy the territory. He stressed that US ownership and control of the island is an absolute necessity for national security. When a reporter pressed Trump to rule out economic or military coercion to gain control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, Trump said, Im not gonna commit to that. No. It might be that youll have to do something. He added: We need Greenland for national security purposes. Trumps comments are serious but were taking them as they come, Mute B. Egede, Greenlands premier, told Danish broadcaster DR after arriving in Copenhagen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He had originally postponed a planned meeting with Denmarks King Frederik X on Wednesday in the Danish capital, but ended up making the trip after all. Mute is scheduled to meet the king at 2 p.m. local time. Other European policymakers are also drawing lessons on how to read Trump. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that while he doesnt think the US is becoming imperialist or that Trump will invade Greenland, the incoming presidents comments are a reminder that Europe needs to wake up and become stronger. Do I think the US will invade Greenland? The answer is: no. Have we entered an era thats seeing the return of might makes right? The answer is: yes, he told France Inter radio on Wednesday. Should we allow ourselves to be intimidated or overcome by worry, obviously not. Firstly, we need to wake up, strengthen ourselves in a world overtaken by might makes right in terms of military, competitiveness. Greenland is home to a US base thats used to detect missile threats and monitoring space, and the islands vast stores of critical minerals have drawn interest from global powers including the US, Russia and China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland, located strategically between the Arctic and the North Atlantic, was even the subject of a famous Danish drama series Borgen that explored how a female prime minister navigated all the competing interests. Frederiksen, a Social Democrat and the youngest premier in Danish history, is known for her strict stance on immigration and harsh rhetoric against Russia. She spearheaded controversial moves including an order to cull 17 million mink during the pandemic. In response to Trumps latest missives, Frederiksen has struck a conciliatory tone. It is positive that there is a growing American interest in what is happening in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, because some of the tensions we see in other parts of the world are also starting to come to the Arctic, she said to Danish broadcaster TV2. But it will have to happen in a way that is respectful of the Greenlandic people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last time she was in this position she had called his suggestion absurd. He called her nasty. This time, shes gone with a different approach racing to be among the first European leaders to speak with him after his election win. --With assistance from Christian Wienberg. (Updates with comments from French foreign minister from 13th paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday railed against President Joe Biden and mused on renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America," among a flurry of topics in a freewheeling news conference at Mar-a-Lago less than two weeks before he takes office. Trump began his remarks by announcing a $20 billion investment from DAMAC Properties, a Middle-East based company, to build new data centers across the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Sun Belt. He quickly shifted focus, however, to criticizing President Biden's final actions before leaving office and laying out his desire to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal, not ruling out using the military to ensure what he called U.S. economic and national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are key takeaways from Trump's press conference, his second since becoming president-elect. Trump blasts Biden on transition Trump took aim at Biden's move to ban all future offshore oil and natural gas drilling off of America's East and West coasts. The action is one of several Biden acts to preempt Trump's second-term goals. MORE: Biden's move to permanently block offshore oil drilling sparks Trump's ire "We are inheriting a difficult situation from the outgoing administration, and they're trying everything they can to make it more difficult," Trump said, contending they were not facilitating a "smooth transition." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Biden's oil drilling ban, Trump vowed: "I will reverse it immediately. It'll be done immediately. And we will drill baby drill," but that could prove very difficult because the Biden ban is considered permanent under the law and Congress would need to change it. PHOTO: President-elect Donald Trump makes remarks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, Jan. 7, 2025. (Carlos Barria/Reuters) Trump muses on creating 'Gulf of America' and seizing Panama Canal As he discussed his desire for U.S. control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, Trump mused on changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." "What a beautiful name. And it's appropriate. It's appropriate," he said. Trump said he wanted to purchase Greenland in his first term, which the island territory flatly rejected at the time. As Trump made the push again after his election win, Greenland's prime minister noted it is not for sale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked by a reporter if he would commit to not using military force or economic coercion in his quest to acquire the territories, Trump notably did not rule it out. "No, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security," Trump said. Trump also floated the possibility of imposing tariffs at a very high level on Denmark to acquire Greenland, claiming Denmark might not have any legal right to Greenland. As Trump spoke, his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., was in Greenland for what he claimed was a personal visit. PHOTO: President-elect Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Jan. 7, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (Evan Vucci/AP) Trump also didn't mince words in criticizing former President Jimmy Carter, who died last week at the age of 100, for overseeing the Panama Canal Treaty that gave the Central American nation eventual control of the critical waterway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump called Carter a "good man" but said he believed ceding the Panama Canal is why Carter didn't win a second term. The comments came as Carter's remains were being transported from Georgia to Washington ahead of his state funeral. "That was a big mistake," Trump said of Carter's decision on Panama. 'All hell will break out' if Hamas doesn't release hostages by inauguration Trump was joined at Mar-a-Lago by Steven Witkoff, who he has tapped as his special envoy to the Middle East. The two were asked about ongoing efforts to secure a deal to release the Israeli and other hostages still being held by Hamas. "All hell will break out. If those hostages aren't back If they're not back by the time I get into office, all hell will break out in the Middle East," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked to elaborate, Trump only said: "And it will not be good for Hamas. And it will not be good, frankly, for anyone." Witkoff indicated "really great progress" has been made on hostage negotiations during his brief remarks. Ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israel are "ongoing," Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majid al-Ansari said Tuesday. PHOTO: President-elect Donald Trump listens as Steve Witkoff speaks during a news conference at Mar-a-Lago, Jan. 7, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (Carlos Barria/Reuters) Not ruling out pardons for violent Jan. 6 rioters Trump declined to commit to not pardoning Jan. 6 defendants who were charged with violent offenses, including those who attacked police officers, when asked by ABC News Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang. "Well, you know, the only one that was killed was a beautiful young lady named Ashley Babbitt," said Trump, again seeking to downplay the violence that occurred as thousands of his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Trump's continuing effort to downplay Jan. 6 violence as 'day of love' Approximately 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the riot, the DOJ has said. He also again falsely claimed that no one in the crowd carried firearms. Praises end of Facebook, Instagram fact-checkers Trump was asked for his reaction to Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, announcing it will replace its fact-checking program with "community notes." The move was announced by CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Tuesday. "I watched their news conference and I thought it was a very good news conference. I think they've honestly I think they've come a long way, Meta, Facebook. I think they've come a long way. I watched it. The man was very impressive," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if he believes Zuckerberg was responding to "threats" that Trump had made to him in the past, Trump responded: "Probably." Meta introduced the fact-checking program after Trump's 2016 win. Trump was banned from Facebook and Instagram after the Jan. 6 Capitol siege over concerns his posts were inciting violence. Trump won't rule out military force to retake Panama Canal, threatens 'all hell will break out' over Israeli hostages originally appeared on abcnews.go.com President-elect Donald Trump has been complaining about his first buddy Elon Musk behind closed doors, according to a reporter. Trump and Musk have become close in recent months, with the tech billionaire reportedly staying at a cottage just a few hundred feet away from the main house at Mar-a-Lago. Trump also tapped Musk to co-head the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. But there appears to be trouble in paradise, according to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump does complain a bit to people about how Musk is around a lot, New York Times journalist said on the podcast On with Kara Swisher on Monday. Musk has been a major donor to Trump this campaign cycle and hes sort of tied into various areas around Trump which makes things more complicated, she said. Musk donated more than a quarter of a billion dollars to Trumps campaign. Musk seems more willing to irritate Trump than a lot of other people have been and less concerned about what it might mean. Its a fraught relationship and has potential for becoming even more so, she said. The pair became so close that some dubbed the Tesla CEO President Musk. But the president-elect swiftly addressed that during a speech in Arizona last month: No, hes not taking the presidencyThats not happening. President-elect Donald Trump listens to Elon Musk as he arrives to watch SpaceXs mega rocket Starship lift off for a test flight from Starbase in November. Their relationship is fraught, according to a New York Times reporter (AP) Asked about how Trump reacted to the President Musk line, Haberman said it definitely bothers him. She continued: Trumps not a wind-up toy but there certainly are very specific things that can zotz him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But she predicted that once Trump takes office, this is going to change a little bit. I dont anticipate that Musk is going to have an office in the West Wing or have a pass to walk freely in the White House, she said. Trump keeps people around for a long time if they are of use to him and he almost never totally closes the door to somebody, whether they are rich or not, Haberman added. But, Musk comes with something that president [Steve] Bannon did not, which is a lot of money, and I think that buys him a lot of time. She added that others in his inner circle are struggling with how aggressive Musk can be in their interactions. But she believed that they wouldnt admit that publicly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk is influential to Trump but is not his most influential adviser, she said. Susie Wiles and Stephen Miller take that title, according to Haberman. Habermans report comes after anonymous sources told Mediaite that Trump was annoyed with Musks omnipresence shortly after he engaged in a so-called civil war with some of Trumps prominent MAGA allies over H-1B visas. 100 percent Trump is annoyed, a source who worked on Trumps re-election campaign told the outlet last month. Theres a Chinese saying: two tigers cannot live on one mountaintop. Another source said: There was likely an allure to it in the beginning but it seemed like it could go uglyTrump is Trump. I think its just the way Trump is. Someone that is around that much and having influence would be a bother. Lawyers for Donald Trump on Monday called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to block the release of a report authored by special counsel Jack Smith detailing his findings in the Justice Departments two criminal cases against the president-elect, which could be made public as soon as this week. In a letter addressed to Garland on behalf of Trump, the president-elects attorneys shared Trumps demand to terminate the preparation and release of Smiths report. His lawyers said they had a chance to go over the document in person in a conference room at Smiths office in Washington, D.C., between Friday and Monday, but complained about not being allowed to use the internet or access their electronic devices during the review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is clear, as has been the case with so many of the other actions of Smith and his staff, that the Draft Report merely continues Smiths politically-motivated attack, and that his continued preparation of the Report and efforts to release it would be both imprudent and unlawful, they wrote. As part of their arguments for urging Garland to stop publication of the document, Trumps attorneys said Smith lacks the constitutional authority to issue the report because he was not properly appointed to the special counsel role, referring to Judge Aileen Cannons ruling in the classified documents case earlier this summer. Cannon dismissed the case, saying that Smiths appointment as special counsel was unconstitutional. Trumps lawyers claimed the report violates fundamental norms regarding the presumption of innocence, including with respect to third parties, and asserted its release would run afoul of the Presidential Transition Act and the presidential immunity doctrine. They also baselessly accused Smith of being politically motivated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, the release of any confidential report prepared by this out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor would be nothing more than a lawless political stunt, designed to politically harm President Trump and justify the huge sums of taxpayer money Smith unconstitutionally spent on his failed and dismissed cases, the letter states. Under such circumstances, releasing Smiths report is obviously not in the public interest particularly in light of President Trumps commanding victory in the election and the sensitive nature of the ongoing transition process, it continues. Beside blocking the report, the lawyers also urged Garland to dismiss Smith. If Smith is not removed, then the handling of his report should be deferred to President Trumps incoming attorney general, consistent with the expressed will of the People, they wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their letter was included as part of the exhibits in the emergency motion of Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, Trumps co-defendants in the case involving Trumps alleged mishandling of classified documents after leaving the White House in January 2021. Both have pleaded not guilty in the case. Nauta and De Oliveiras motion called on Cannon to stop the public release of Smiths report. These Defendants will irreparably suffer harm as civilian casualties of the Governments impermissible and contumacious utilization of political lawfare to include release of the unauthorized Report, the motion states. The Final Report relies on materials to which Smith, as disqualified special counsel, is no longer entitled access making his attempt to share such materials with the public highly improper. Its unclear whether Cannon could have a say in Garlands decision on whether to make the report public, The Washington Post notes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith addressed the emergency motion in a new filing, saying he will submit the volume of the report pertaining to the classified documents case to Garland by Tuesday afternoon before replying to the defendants motion that evening. Smith noted that while it will be up to Garland to decide whether to release that part of the report at all, the attorney general wont do so before Friday. Garlands office has so far not commented on those latest developments. While Cannon dismissed the classified documents case over the summer, the Department of Justice is still appealing the ruling as it pertains to Nauta and De Oliveira. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apart from the classified documents case, Smith also oversaw Trumps federal election interference case, involving his efforts to undo President Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 presidential race. Smith moved to dismiss both of the cases against the president-elect following his win in November but is still preparing to share a final report with Garland on his work and findings, as is consistent with DOJ policy. President-elect Donald Trump refused to rule out the use of military force to seize control of Greenland and Panama during a press conference on Tuesday. Can you assure the world that as you try to get control of these areas you are not going to use military or economic coercion, a reporter asked Trump, who clarified that the reporter was asking about Greenland and Panama. No, the president-elect responded. I cant assure you on either of those two. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not gonna commit to that, it might be that youll have to do something Trump added when a reporter interjected to ask specifically about military force. The Panama Canal is vital to our country. Its being operated by China. China! We gave the Panama canal to Panama, we didnt give it to China. And they abused that gift, he added. We need Greenland for national security purposes, Trump told another reporter. People dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it. But if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security. Thats for the free world, Im talking about the free world. Earlier in the press conference, during his prepared remarks, Trump lambasted Panama over their management of the canal. The deal was that, you know, they have to treat us fairly. They dont treat us fairly. They charge more for our ships than ships of other countries. They charge more for our Navy than they charge for Navies of countries. They laugh at us because they think were stupid he said, accusing the nation of violating every aspect of their agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former president did not elaborate on any specific plans for his proposed takeover of Greenland from the Kingdom of Denmark, one of Americas NATO allies. The press conference took place as his son and adviser Donald Trump Jr. visited the nation along with a contingent of close allies. In December, Trump revived a bizarre episode from his first term as president in which he expressed interest in purchasing Greenland. 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 on Truth Social. Hours later, the Danish government announced that it would be increasing security spending around the island. We are not for sale, declared Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede. While the president-elect was questioned about his plans for the Panama Canal and Greenland, theyre not the only territory hes mused putting under U.S. control in recent days. Canada is also on the list. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many people in Canada LOVE being the 51st State, he wrote on Monday after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced he will resign as head of 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!!! It seems that Trump is attempting to create a version of Manifest Destiny the 19th century doctrine holding that the United States was destined to expand westward to the Pacific Ocean that extends not just east to west, but north to south. On Tuesday, the president-elect also claimed that he would be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico, to the Gulf of America. He has not floated plans to adopt Mexico as the 52nd state, but he has in the past floated plans to conduct a military invasion of our southern neighbor. 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. President-elect Trump said Monday that hell replace the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) leader. We will [have a] new archivist, Trump told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt on his show. According to federal law on the NARA website, the president has the power to fire the archivist but must communicate the reasons for any such removal to each House of the Congress. One of the prominent legal cases Trump has had to deal with in the past two years, the Mar-a-Lago documents case, centered around his retention of sensitive documents from his first presidency, in the face of work by NARA and the FBI to get them back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special counsel Jack Smith formally withdrew from the documents case last week, referring the continuing prosecution of the president-elects two co-defendants to Southern District of Florida federal prosecutors. Smith also formally dropped charges against Trump in both of his federal cases two months ago, dismissing them without prejudice and citing Justice Department policy barring the prosecution of a sitting president. We also had a very brilliant and very fair judge on the case, Trump told Hewitt on Monday, referring to U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, who ruled to toss the documents case in July. And as you know, we won that case. We won it convincingly, the president-elect added. Colleen Shogan, the current Archivist of the United States, has been in the role since May 2023. While still a nominee, she faced confrontation from Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) about her prior posts on the social platform X, including those in which she went after Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and backed mask mandates for young children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Shogan has had a strong working relationship with President Trump and his team. We look forward to continuing that relationship with the new administration, the National Archives public affairs desk said Sunday in a statement to The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President-elect Donald Trump said Tuesday that NATO member countries were taking advantage of the U.S. and should be paying more than double what they currently are required to pay for their military defense. They could all afford it, but they should be at 5%, not 2%, said Trump, during a press conference from his Florida beachside compound Mar-a-Lago, talking about member countries contribution as a percentage of their Gross Domestic Product or economic output. In February, Trump caused an uproar when he said during a campaign event that hed told a NATO leader that if a country had not paid their bills he would encourage Russia to do whatever the hell they want." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump repeated the anecdote on Tuesday, this time identifying the leader as a prime minister, saying, Well, they weren't paying their bills. I said, 'we're not gonna protect you. You're not paying the bills.' On Tuesday, Trump said he took a lot of heat in February for saying that the U.S. would not protect them if they were delinquent. U.S. President-elect Donald Trump makes remarks at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, U.S. January 7, 2025. I would've loved to have said Yes, we'll protect you even if you don't pay, he said Tuesday. But that's not the way life works. The U.S. contributes 3.4% of its GDP and about 16% of NATO's annual budget. Poland is in top place, contributing 4.1% of it's GDP, followed by Estonia and the U.S, both at 3.4%, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2014, NATO members recommitted to the 2% guideline in the wake of Russias annexation of Ukraines Crimea region. But most countries, however, failed to meet that guideline. After Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many of the countries were more willing to pay for their own defense. The transatlantic alliance reached a milestone in 2024 when all non-U.S. NATO allies spent the 2% target on average for the first time. Twenty-three out of the 32 total member countries will meet or exceed the 2% target, including France and Germany, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. The newly elected NATO General Secretary Mark Rutte signaled in a speech on Dec. 12 that he agreed with Trump.By 2023, NATO Allies agreed to invest at least 2%, he said. I can tell you,we are going to need a lot more than 2%. If we dont spend more together now to prevent war, we will pay a much, much, much higher price later to fight it. Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House Correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X @SwapnaVenugopal This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NATO countries should pay 5% of GDP for defense: Trump By Gram Slattery and Helen Reid WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President-elect Donald Trump said on Tuesday he sympathized with the Russian position that Ukraine should not be part of NATO, and he lamented that he will not meet Russian President Vladimir Putin before his inauguration. Speaking at a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump also blamed outgoing Democratic President Joe Biden for allegedly changing the U.S. position on NATO membership for Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A big part of the problem is, Russia - for many, many years, long before Putin - said, 'You could never have NATO involved with Ukraine.' Now, they've said that. That's been, like, written in stone," Trump said. "And somewhere along the line Biden said, 'No. They should be able to join NATO.' Well, then Russia has somebody right on their doorstep, and I could understand their feelings about that." Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization have officially expressed support for Ukraine's eventual membership since the Bucharest Summit of 2008, and the Biden administration continues to support Ukraine's eventual NATO accession, though Ukraine has never been extended an invitation. Trump's aides and allies generally oppose NATO membership for Ukraine, at least in the foreseeable future, seeing it as an unnecessary provocation toward Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's leaders, meanwhile, have aggressively pushed for a NATO invitation, saying it is key to deterring further Russian aggression. Trump had said on the campaign trail before the Nov. 5 election that he could solve the war in Ukraine before even taking office. While he still says he will quickly solve it, he has largely dropped that line, and he is now due to take office in less than two weeks. "I hope to have six months. No, I would think, I hope long before six months," Trump said, when asked if he could solve the war within half a year. "Look, Russia is losing a lot of young people, and so is Ukraine, and it should have never been started." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also complained that he could not meet with Putin until after he takes office on Jan. 20. He said, without elaborating, that such a meeting would be inappropriate. "I know that Putin would like to meet," Trump said. "I don't think it's appropriate that I meet until after the 20th which I hate, because, you know, every day people are being many, many young people are being killed." (Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Ross Colvin and Daniel Wallis) 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: SHVETS production from Pexels The ability to follow instructions and its impact on the rehabilitation of stroke patients has never been investigated. At the Joint Laboratory for Neurological Rehabilitation Research of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Adi-Negev Nahalat Eran, researchers explored following instructions and patients' motor recovery. Their findings were published in the journal Neuropsychology. Every day we use our ability to understand instructions for routine daily activities. But what happens to stroke survivors with impairments that affect this ability? Dr. Reut Binyamin-Netser and Prof. Lior Shmuelof from the Department of Cognitive and Brain Sciences at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev examined how stroke affects the ability to follow changing instructions and what cognitive abilities underlie this ability. Stroke occurs because of a sudden disruption in the blood supply to brain tissue by a blood clot or by bleeding. This disruption causes neuronal damage that can manifest in various ways. One of the most common impairments (72% of cases) after stroke is cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment manifests in memory and attention problems and in impairments in abilities that require executive functions, adaptation processes to change, adjustments to unexpected situations, and self-control. These impairments lead to functional deficits and predict a lower chance of independent functioning after stroke. Another consequence of cognitive impairment after stroke is impairment in the learning ability of subjects, which may affect their ability to participate in and benefit from the rehabilitation treatment they receive. To investigate the phenomenon, the researchers examined two groups of subjects. One group consisted of 31 stroke patients, while 36 subjects in the same age range (5575) served as a control group. All participants in the study were given computerized tasks in which they had to respond to stimuli according to their color and location on the screen, and other tasks designed to characterize cognitive abilities such as response inhibition ability and information processing speed using symbols. The results showed a decrease in accuracy and response times during instruction following a stroke (compared to the control group). In addition, there was a decrease in information processing speed and a decrease in response inhibition ability. A relationship was also found between the patients' response inhibition abilities and their ability to follow instructions. "Response inhibition ability affects the ability of patients to participate in the rehabilitation process," explained Dr. Binyamin-Netser. "Understanding instructions and tasks is also the basis for motor rehabilitation since the process is a product of instruction." According to Prof. Shmuelof, "The study opens the door to examining the relationship between cognitive functions and motor and cognitive recovery. This connection is critical in an era where technologies such as video games play a central role in rehabilitation." The researchers recommend starting an intensive rehabilitation program using computerized technologies as early as possible to improve the stroke recovery process. "The cognitive ability of the patient is critical to the success of such interventions. Improving motor and cognitive rehabilitation are intertwined, so understanding instructions is the basis for the entire process," summarized Dr. Binyamin-Netser. Anat Shaked Ravni, an engineer from the Department of Cognitive and Brain Sciences at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, also participated in the study. More information: Reut Binyamin-Netser et al, Rapid instructed task learning is impaired after stroke and associated with impairments in prepotent inhibition and processing speed., Neuropsychology (2024). DOI: 10.1037/neu0000979 Journal information: Neuropsychology US President-elect Donald Trump has said he can "understand the Russians feelings" about Joe Biden allegedly breaking a "deal" to deny Ukraine NATO membership. Source: Trump at a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on 7 January, as reported by European Pravda Details: The incoming US president once again blamed the Biden administration for the start of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Discussing the causes of the war, Trump stated that the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO had been "a major issue for Russia for many, many years". Quote: "Somewhere along the line, Biden said: 'No, they [the Ukrainians ed.] should be able to join NATO.' Well, then Russia has somebody right on their doorstep. But I can understand their feelings about that." Details: Asked by a journalist to clarify exactly when the US had opposed Ukraine's NATO membership, the president-elect replied: "My view, it was always understood." Quote: "In fact, I believe they had a deal and then Biden broke it. They had a deal which would have been a satisfactory deal to Ukraine and everybody else, but Biden said: 'No, you have to be able to join NATO'." Background: Trump has previously argued that Biden should not have promised Ukraine NATO membership, claiming this was a reason for Russia starting its full-scale war. Earlier, Trump insisted that he would "not abandon Ukraine" in his efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war. Support UP or become our patron! President-elect Donald Trump and his former co-defendants in the Florida classified documents case launched an effort Monday to block the release of a final report by special counsel Jack Smith that also addresses the election interference case. Both cases against Trump have been dismissed. Lawyers for defendants Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira filed a motion Monday night asking U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to block Smith, who prosecuted the case, from issuing his report. They cited the judge's previous ruling that Smiths appointment was unconstitutional. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Final Report promises to be a one-sided, slanted report, relying nearly exclusively on evidence presented to a grand jury and subject to all requisite protectionsand which is known to Smith only as a result of his unconstitutional appointmentin order to serve a singular purpose: convincing the public that everyone Smith charged is guilty of the crimes charged, the four lawyers wrote. On Tuesday, Cannon ultimately put a temporary hold on the release of the classified documents report. Nauta and De Oliveira separately asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit to block release of Smiths report. A filing from Trump's team on Tuesday indicated that according to the special counsel's office, the president-elect's lawyers have known since Dec. 11 that Smith was drafting a confidential report. The filing also indicated that the two volumes of the report include one on the classified documents case and one on the election interference case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A senior law enforcement official told NBC News that the Justice Department has concluded it likely cannot release the classified documents portion of Smiths special counsel report, because of a local federal rule in the southern district of Florida prohibiting the release of information about pending cases. The rule was raised in the motion filed by Trumps co-defendants. Defense lawyers asked Cannon on Monday to hold a hearing and rule on their motion to block the report's release by Friday, saying they believe the release of the report is imminent. Trumps lawyers, meanwhile, sent a letter urging Attorney General Merrick Garland to stop Smith from releasing the report. In the letter, Trumps lawyers called Smith an out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor aiming to politically harm Trump. Accordingly, because Smith has proposed an unlawful course of action, you must countermand his plan and remove him promptly. If Smith is not removed, then the handling of his report should be deferred to President Trumps incoming attorney general, consistent with the expressed will of the People, they wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps lawyers said they reviewed a two-volume draft copy of Smiths report at the special counsels office in Washington, D.C., over the weekend. In his response to the emergency motion, Smith wrote that his office is working to finalize "a two-volume confidential report to the Attorney General explaining the Special Counsels prosecution decisions." He said that it would be Garland who decides whether any portion is released to the public and that one volume "pertains to this case." Smith said his office wont transmit that volume to Garland before 1 p.m. ET Tuesday. He also said Garland "has not yet determined how to handle the report volume pertaining to this case, about which the parties were conferring at the time the defendants filed the Motion, but the Department can commit that the Attorney General will not release that volume to the public, if he does at all," before 10 a.m. Friday. NBC News has reported that Smith and his team plan to resign before Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Department charged Trump in Florida with mishandling classified documents after he left office. Cannon dismissed the case in July, saying Smiths appointment was illegal. Trump had pleaded not guilty. Smith appealed the dismissal, but the case was upended by Trumps election in November, because of the Justice Departments long-standing policy not to prosecute sitting presidents. An appeals court later agreed to dismiss the case against Trump at Smiths request. Smith was also forced to wind down the election interference case against Trump after indicting him in 2023 in connection with his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. A judge in November agreed to dismiss that case, too, at Smiths request. Federal prosecutors are still appealing Cannons dismissal of the charges against Nauta and De Oliveira. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Donald Trump Jr. paid a visit to Greenland Tuesday, flying to the territory on his fathers private plane, and seemed to give weight to the president-elects half-baked plan to acquire itdespite the fact that it is currently an autonomous territory within Denmark. While the younger Trump didnt have any plans to meet with political leaders, he brought along pundit Charlie Kirk and Trump administration staffer Sergio Gor on a trip he described as tourism. Were really happy to be here. Were here as tourists to see this incredible place, Trump Jr. told a local broadcaster. He said he had spoken to his father, and he says hello to everyone in Greenland. A screenshot of a tweet from Donald Trump Jr. showing pictures from his visit to Greenland with Sergio Gor and Charlie Kirk. Later, Trump Jr. visited a restaurant with his friends and called his father on speakerphone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just want to say that its a very special place. It needs security for itself but it also needs security very much for the world, the location, really, Trump said through his sons phone. You see the people and the ships sailing around and theyre not the right ships. Theyre not the ships you want to know about. So, we need security and our country needs it and the whole world needs it. Filming for @ArtoftheSurge in Greenland. President Trump just called into a lunch @DonaldJTrumpJr, @charliekirk11 and @SergioGor are having with the local community in Nuuk. pic.twitter.com/T1Hca62GQB Justin Wells (@justinbwells) January 7, 2025 The visit follows a Truth Social post from the president-elect Monday night where he reiterated his plan to annex Greenland and seemed to be under the impression that its people were on board with the idea, despite the fact that Greenlands own leaders disagree. I dont want to be a pawn in Trumps hot dreams of expanding his empire to include our country, Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish Parliament, said. Last month, Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede said that the island is not for sale. What started as blatant trolling by Trump appears to be being entertained as a serious plan. The president-elect has also discussed annexing Canada, even inviting Canadian businessman and Shark Tank panelist Kevin OLeary to Mar-a-Lago to discuss the plan. Trump has also floated taking over the Panama Canal zone, which was predictably met with hostility from Panamas president. Is this what the next four years will look like? President-elect Donald Trump on Monday tapped Nassau County Judge Joseph Nocella Jr. as his pick to lead the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of New York. Nocella will replace Breon Peace, who announced last month hell step down from the job as top federal prosecutor covering Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and Long Island on Jan. 10 just days before Trumps inauguration. President Biden appointed Peace for the spot in 2021. Judge Nocella has a strong record of bringing Law and Order to the incredible people of New York, serving as a Nassau County District Court Judge, and Family Court Judge, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Monday night, announcing the pick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nocella earned his bachelors degree from Fordham University, where Trump also studied before transferring to the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and later graduated from Columbia Law School, Newsday has reported. He began his legal career in private practice working in litigation in both New York and Los Angeles. From 1991 to 1995, he served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern Districts criminal division. Returning to local government after his federal tenure, Nocella worked in various legal roles in Nassau County, serving as the Hempstead town attorney from 2021 to 2022, and as chief of staff to the Hempstead town supervisor from 2020 to 2022, according to Newsday. He was also the Oyster Bay town attorney from 2017 to 2020, according to Newsday. In addition, he held positions as counsel to Nassau Countys Office of Housing and Community Development and as a counsel to the county executive and legislature. His most recent post was as a Nassau County District Court judge in November 2022. (Bloomberg) -- It no longer sounds like a joke. Most Read from Bloomberg US President-elect Donald Trump escalated his remarks about making Canada part of the US during a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Tuesday. And he reiterated that he intends to put substantial tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico. Asked if he would use military force to annex Canada, he replied no 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, and it would also be much better for national security dont forget, we basically protect Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump claimed the US is subsidizing Canada to the tune of $200 billion a year, an apparent reference to the US trade deficit and possible other factors. The total US trade deficit in goods and services with Canada was $40.6 billion in 2023, according to US Census Bureau data. Its driven by energy exports: the US buys more than 4 million barrels a day of Canadian crude oil during some months. Trumps latest provocation prompted Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to respond on X: There isnt a snowballs chance in hell that Canada would become part of the United States. More than 80% of Canadians are opposed to the idea, according to a recent poll. Members of Trudeaus government had previously played off the 51st state remarks as a joke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said the US doesnt need anything that Canada produces. He said hed rather make cars in Detroit instead of relying on the highly-integrated continental auto supply chain, and not buy Canadian lumber or dairy. When discussing lumber, Trump said he could use an executive order to un-restrict it, implying the US could ramp up domestic supply. They should be a state, thats what I told Trudeau when he came down, Trump said, an apparent reference to a dinner meeting at Mar-a-Lago between him and the Canadian prime minister in late November. The US currently relies on Canada for a number of key commodities. In response to threats from Trump of 25% tariffs, officials in Ottawa have been examining the use of export taxes on items such as uranium, oil and potash as potential responses in case theres a trade war, Bloomberg News reported last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canada is the largest external supplier of oil to the US, its uranium is the biggest foreign source of fuel for US nuclear power plants, and its potash is a huge source of fertilizer for American farms. The Canadian dollar has dropped versus the greenback since Trump made a threat on Nov. 25 to put the tariffs on Canada and Mexico. The loonie was down 0.19% to C$1.4360 per US dollar as of 4:29 p.m. in New York. Trudeau announced his resignation on Monday, saying he doesnt have enough support from within his Liberal Party to lead it into an election this year. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly posted on social media that Canada will never back down in the face of threats. Shes considered a potential contender to succeed Trudeau. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre, whom polls say is the odds-on favorite to win the upcoming election, previously said Canada would never be a US state. Asked about those comments on Tuesday, Trump said: Then maybe he wont win. But maybe he will. Listen, I dont care what he says. Poilievre reiterated his comments in social media posts later on Tuesday, and emphasized Canadas support of US security, its supply of cheap energy, and its consumption of American products, adding that the weak and pathetic government had failed to make these obvious points. We will put Canada First, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canadas left-leaning New Democratic Party, also hit back: No Canadian wants to join you. --With assistance from Stephanie Lai. (Updates with Canada political leader comments from 18th paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President-elect Donald Trumps transition team is falling short of its goal to have 2,000 political appointees on board by Inauguration Day, a new report reveals. Trumps team sent out several employment offers to political appointees on Monday in an effort to meet the goal but theyre still falling short, CBS News reports, citing two sources familiar with the situation. The goal has been difficult to meet because many of those being offered jobs work in the private sector and want to give two weeks notice before leaving, according to CBS. Others are hesitant to commit to potential roles without an official offer letter in hand, the outlet reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Trump picked a brilliant Cabinet in record and historic time and the Trump-Vance Transition is working non-stop to fill the Administration with hard workers who believe fully in the America First Agenda, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told CBS. Trumps team sent out several offer letters on Monday but are still short of the 2,000-person goal, the CBS News report indicates (REUTERS) Trump had about 1,200 appointees hired in January 2017 in time for his first inauguration, according to CBS. President Joe Biden similarly had 1,136 political appointees in place for his January 2021 inauguration. Trumps allies have also warned that appointees must be fully aligned with the president-elect, indicating shows of loyalty may play a role in the hiring process. Let me be clear: anyone working under President Trump in the NSC will be fully aligned with his America First agenda, Mike Waltz, incoming national security adviser, posted on X Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any rumors or suggestions to the contrary are fake news and a distraction from the mission, he continued. We will clear the decks to Make America Great Again! The Daily Beast reported that such loyalty tests may be holding up appointments too. Candidates undergo an initial background review, interviews with subject-matter experts and an interview with their potential department leader, CBS News reports. Waltzs statement comes after Joshua Steinman, former National Security Council senior director for cyber during Trumps first term, claimed many soon-to-be-announced appointees previously criticized the president-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Many who have gotten the nod are great, Steinman said. But a significant number of as-yet-unannounced staff have long histories of being vocally never Trump, and working for prominent figures who have repeatedly undermined the President. The Independent has contacted Trumps transition team for comment. This development comes just 13 days ahead of Trumps inauguration. Before then, he must make a pit stop in New York to attend a sentencing hearing in his hush-money case after a jury convicted him on 34 counts of falsifying business records last year. Judge Juan Merchan indicated Trump would receive a sentence of unconditional discharge, which means he will not face jail time, probation or fines. 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 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. It's 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 Oregon's Baker Countyand 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 City's Republican Party chapter, a local doula, several pregnant women, and the director of the Baker County Health Departmentmany of whom were not rigidly opposed to abortionall 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. "It's 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 department's 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 countiesmust 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 doesn't offer abortions himself. "There's not a lot of anonymity in small towns for physicians who provide that care," he said. "Many of us aren't 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 family's 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 don't 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 can't. 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. "It's a lot scarier to be pregnant now in Baker City than it ever has been," Defrees said. 2025 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Trump tries to block the public from seeing special counsel Jack Smiths final report. Two federal death row inmates dont want their sentence to be commuted by Biden. And a winter storm starts heading offshore of the eastern U.S. while California braces for high winds. Heres what to know today. Trump seeks to block release of final report from Jack Smith Special Counsel Jack Smith makes a statement to the press in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 1, 2023. President-elect Donald Trump and his former co-defendants in the Florida classified documents case have launched an effort to block the release of a final report by special counsel Jack Smith that also addresses the election interference case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report in question is one that the special counsels office is required under Justice Department regulations to provide. Attorney General Merrick Garland can choose whether to make the confidential report public. Both the classified documents and election interference cases have been dismissed. This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your day. Sign up here to get it in your inbox. Lawyers for Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, defendants in the classified documents case in Florida, filed a motion last night asking U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to block Smith from issuing his report, which they believe to be imminent. They cited Cannons ruling to dismiss the case against Trump in July because she argued Smiths appointment was unconstitutional. Meanwhile, Trumps lawyers have sent a letter urging Attorney General Merrick Garland to stop Smith from releasing the report. In their letter, Trumps team called Smith an out-of-control private citizen unconstitutionally posing as a prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read the full story here. More Trump and politics news: Cold weather in eastern U.S.; fire threat in California A winter storm that plagued the eastern half of the U.S. is moving offshore, but the chilly weather is sticking around. High temperatures from northern Texas and the Plains to the Mid-Atlantic are expected to be 5 to 20 degrees below average. Yesterdays snow and cold weather caused thousands of flight delays, as well as power outages affecting hundreds of thousands customers. At least four people have been killed in the winter storm, including a 61-year-old public works employee in Missouri who was performing snow removal operations, officials said. Also, two people were killed in a crash in Wichita, Kansas, and in Houston, a person was found dead because of cold weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the eastern half of the country grapples with winter weather, California faced the flip side: Extreme fire weather, fueled by warm days and dry winds. The National Weather Service warned of 80 to 100 mph offshore winds in the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura counties and 50 to 80 mph offshore winds for the coastal flatlands, inland valleys and canyons of the Los Angeles area. Follow our live blog for latest weather updates. 2 death row inmates reject Bidens commutation Two prisoners who are among the 37 federal inmates whose death sentences were commuted by President Joe Biden are refusing to sign the paperwork accepting the clemency. Its an unusual stance but Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, both inmates at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, believe a commuted sentence would put them at a legal disadvantage as they seek to appeal their cases based on claims of innocence. The men filed emergency motions on Dec. 30 seeking an injunction to block having their death sentences commuted to life in prison without parole. Agofsky was convicted in the 1989 murder of an Oklahoma bank president and then in the 2001 stomping death of a fellow inmate while in prison in Texas. He disputes how he was charged in the stomping death and is trying to establish his innocence in the 1989 killing, according to his filing seeking an injunction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis, a former New Orleans police officer, was convicted in the 1994 murder of Kim Graves, who had filed a complaint against him accusing him of beating a teenager in her neighborhood. Davis has maintained his innocence and has alleged misconduct against the Justice Department, according to his filing. What happens next is up in the air, but legal experts said the pair face a daunting challenge in seeking to restore their death sentences. Mob of college students attack man in To Catch a Predator-like trap, police say Six students at a private Catholic university in Massachusetts were accused of luring an active duty service member to campus, who was falsely described as a sexual predator and chased by a group of more than two dozen people and assaulted, authorities said. The incident happened at Assumption University in Worcester in October. One of the students charged told police that the plot was modeled on To Catch a Predator, NBCs discontinued program that aimed to catch adults seeking to prey on minors, saying, Catch a predator is a big thing on TikTok currently, according to a statement of facts in the case. Last month, 11 Illinois teens were charged in a similar incident in a suburb near Chicago attributed to a viral social media trend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Massachusetts case, one of the students now charged first told police that a creepy Tinder app contact had come to campus looking to meet a 17-year-old girl and called a friend who chased the person away, according to the statement. But the victim, a 22-year-old in the military, gave authorities a different account, which security video confirmed. Read All About It Staff Pick: A secret from the Roman Empire buried in ice Longitudinal ice core samples awaiting analysis for lead and other chemicals using the continuous ice core analytical system at the Desert Research Institute. The Romans had an air pollution problem and it was making them dumber. A new study suggests that silver smelting during the Roman Empire put so much lead into the atmosphere that it would have lowered Romans IQs by an average of 2.5-3 points. Scientists examined samples of ice in Greenland, which give molecular clues of past environmental conditions, and found strong concentrations of the heavy metal, which is a neurotoxin associated with learning disabilities, reproductive problems and mental health issues, among other effects. Scientists determined that dust particles from the ancient civilization wafted to Greenland some 2,000 years ago. The findings are the first clear example of industrial pollution in history, researchers say and could offer clues into what led to Romes downfall. Evan Bush, science reporter NBC Select: Online Shopping, Simplified Le Creusets Winter Savings Event is here, which means discounts on the brands signature dutch oven, as well as other products. Heres what to shop. And if youre hoping to do more meal-prepping in the new year, these reusable containers and lunch boxes will help keep your food fresh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sign up to The Selection newsletter for hands-on product reviews, expert shopping tips and a look at the best deals and sales each week. Thanks for reading todays Morning Rundown. Todays newsletter was curated for you by Elizabeth Robinson. If youre a fan, please send a link to your family and friends. They can sign up here. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com An appeals court has refused to stop President-elect Donald Trumps sentencing for his criminal hush money conviction in New York on Friday. Trump had again turned to the courts hoping they would step in and stop his sentencing for his 34-count felony conviction. Just 24 hours ago, Judge Juan Merchan refuseda request from Trump to halt the Jan. 10 sentencing. In a tersely worded order, the judge informed Trumps attorneys, Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, that the request was denied because they had failed to offer any new arguments to support the dismissal or halt the proceedings. Instead, the judge wrote, they had only rehashed old claims to presidential immunity that failed when introduced the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appeals court decision was concise, stating only that after consideration of his arguments, the application for an interim stay, or halt, is denied. Merchan ruled in December that the evidence the jury in New York relied on to convict Trump of falsifying records in a hush money scheme ahead of the 2016 election relied overwhelmingly on his unofficial conduct and unofficial conduct is still prosecutable. The application filed to the appellate court by Trumps legal team on Tuesday for an immediate stay claims that Merchans ruling on Monday is causing ongoing, irreparable harm by depriving President Trump of his constitutional rights. Before Merchan made his decision, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg argued that facing sentencing is not a violation of Trumps constitutional rights nor does it impose any real burden on him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one, Bragg argued, until he is inaugurated, Trump is simply not engaged in any official presidential functions that would support a claim of immunity from ordinary criminal process. Next, Bragg pointed out, the upcoming sentencing basically carries no real penalty since Merchan has already said the only practical path forward since Trump won the election in November is to hand down a sentence of unconditional discharge. Typically, these sentences carry no fines, and no prison time is assigned. If Trump is not sentenced before he takes office, sentencing would need to wait until he departs the White House. The House and the Senate are slightly out of lockstep about delivering President-elect Donald Trumps legislative win in the first 100 days. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said the two bodies plan to pass a single reconciliation bill. Weve made a lot of campaign promises, President Trump did as well, and reconciliation is the way to get it done, Johnson told Maria Bartiromo on Fox News Morning Futures Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Senates filibuster rule requires 60 votes to advance most legislation. Because Republicans have a smaller majority in the Senate, 53 to 47, they need seven Democrats for a bill to pass. However, the reconciliation process allows the Senate to pass certain tax and government funding-related bills through a simple majority and thats what congressional Republicans plan to do. Johnson said Trump would prefer a single bill that includes immigration, energy and tax reform. But his counterparts in the Senate have other ideas. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., hopes to split the priorities and pass two separate bills: One that tackles immigration, and another that takes on taxes. What is Speaker Johnsons plan? Members of Congress are getting to work on one powerful Bill that will bring our Country back, and make it greater than ever before, Trump said 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. Politico reported that Senate Republicans were lobbying for Trump to support the two-step plan over the weekend, but the president-elect hasnt publicly welcomed the plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson said one reconciliation bill (gives) us a little bit more time to negotiate that and get it right. On one hand, unifying the party around two separate bills could prove to be a big challenge with small margins and could hike up the overall price tag. On the other hand, it will take time to compile such a complex bill with many moving parts. Johnson said he expects the bill to be ready by early April before it heads to the presidents desk for his signature. Congress must pass a tax package since many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed during Trumps first term, are set to expire this year. Republicans also want to address the crisis at the southern border, where an overwhelming number of migrants from around the world illegally entered the U.S. under the Biden administration. They are also impatiently waiting to undo the Biden administrations clean energy policies. By splitting the priorities into two, they can get the ball rolling quicker. Urgency is key, or so argue Senate Republicans. What are Senate Republicans asking for? Thune told reporters last month he wants Republicans to make quick moves on their predetermined priorities, like border, defense and energy, before prioritizing another package that would address the expiring tax cuts, as per NBC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I think we can do both, Thune said. Weve got an opportunity to have a couple of different chances at a reconciliation package that would achieve all those objectives. Incoming Senate Budget Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on Fox News Morning Futures Sunday expressed his concerns about Johnsons plan. Im very worried that if we dont put border first and get it done, its going to be a nightmare for our national security, he said, adding he anticipated passing the border security measures by mid-February. To the tax-cut wing of the party, I am with you, Graham said. But if you hold border security hostage to get tax cuts, youre playing Russian roulette with our national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thune said its the Democrats who provided the template for leveraging the reconciliation process to achieve legislative wins. They had their first reconciliation bill done in four weeks coming on it when they got the majority, he said, referring to the nearly $2 trillion coronavirus relief package that the Democratic-controlled House and Senate passed. Another $2 trillion reconciliation bill, the Build Back Better Act, originally faced opposition but a modified version was passed by the Democratic trifecta. Donald Trump and two of his allies are making a last-minute push to block special counsel Jack Smith from issuing his final report on his two dismissed criminal cases against the president-elect. Trumps lawyers wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland on Monday, urging him not to release Smiths report a two-volume document that they were allowed to review in Smiths office over the past three days. At the same time, two of Trumps former co-defendants asked U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to block the Justice Department from releasing any report from the special counsel on the criminal case in Florida where Trump was charged with conspiring to retain a trove of classified documents after leaving office in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the letter to Garland, Trumps attorneys said that releasing a public narrative of the evidence Smith gathered in the classified documents case as well as the federal election conspiracy case over Trumps bid to subvert the 2020 election would illegally interfere with the presidential transition and be little more than a political attack. The decision about releasing Smiths findings, they wrote, should be left to Trumps administration. They also called on Garland to immediately fire Smith, who is set to end his tenure by the time Trump is inaugurated. Because Smith has proposed an unlawful course of action, you must countermand his plan and remove him promptly, Trumps lawyers wrote. Lawyers for Trumps co-defendants said Tuesday that the president-elect would seek to formally intervene in court on the matter imminently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith and the Justice Department responded jointly Tuesday morning, saying Garland had not yet decided whether to release the report publicly and would not do so until at least Jan. 10. Smith indicated he had not submitted the classified documents report to Garland and would not until at least Tuesday afternoon. Special counsels who are appointed by attorneys general to handle politically sensitive criminal investigations are required under Justice Department regulations to produce reports detailing their findings and charging decisions. These reports often generate enormous public interest. During Trumps first term, for instance, special counsel Robert Muellers report laid out stark evidence of ties between Russia and Trumps 2016 campaign. Special counsels reports are initially confidential, but Garland has pledged to release Smiths report to the public in some form, following the recent tradition of attorneys general of both parties releasing them. Hints about Smiths report The letter from Trumps lawyers to Garland provides a few clues about Smiths conclusions: It notes that the special counsel, in describing Trumps 2020 election subversion effort, said that Trump engaged in an unprecedented criminal effort as the head of the criminal conspiracies and that he harbored a criminal design. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter was signed by four Trump lawyers, including Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, whom Trump has tapped for the No. 2 and No. 3 positions in his Justice Department. They swiped at Smith for including in his report attacks on other anticipated members of President Trumps incoming administration. And they indicated the special counsels report criticizes the social media company X for resisting prosecutors effort to obtain data from Trumps account. According to the letter and a legal filing by the two remaining defendants in the classified documents case, lawyers for Trump and those defendants were permitted to review a draft of the report in recent days in what they described as an unreasonably rushed and limited process. However, they said they saw enough to blast Smiths report as one-sided and slanted. Cannon to weigh in The letter to Garland was revealed as an attachment to a motion filed Monday night by Trumps former co-defendants: Walt Nauta and Carlos de Oliveira, two Trump aides who were accused of helping him obstruct the federal governments investigation into the classified documents he stored at Mar-a-Lago. Trump has used political funds he controls to pay for the legal defenses of both men, and Trump has tapped Nautas lead attorney, Stan Woodward, to be an assistant to the president and senior White House counselor in the next administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new emergency motion asks Cannon to order the Justice Department not to release any report from Smith on the documents case. Cannon is a Trump appointee who was assigned to handle that case and frequently clashed with Smiths team before she dismissed the charges in July. Lawyers for Nauta and de Oliveira argued that the release of the report would violate their clients rights, since prosecutors are still pursuing an appeal to reinstate charges against the two men. If Cannon sides with Nauta and de Oliveira, she would deliver one last blow to the departing special counsel, by preventing him from laying out the incriminating evidence he amassed in a narrative form just days before Trump returns to the White House. Its unclear, however, if Cannon has the authority to rule on Nauta and de Oliveiras request. After she dismissed the case ruling that Smiths appointment as special counsel was unconstitutional the Justice Department appealed to the Atlanta-based 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. That court, not Cannon, currently has control of the case. On Tuesday, Nauta and de Oliveira asked the 11th Circuit to send the case back to Cannon so she could rule on their effort to block the report. As Donald Trump gears up to take office this month, two agencies involved in the criminal case that accused the president-elect of mishandling classified documents face turnover in key roles. Jay Bratt, a lead prosecutor in the documents case, which has since been dismissed, left the Justice Department last week, a spokesperson confirmed Monday. Bratt, a senior national security official assigned to special counsel Jack Smiths office, retired Friday after 34 years at the department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NBC News has reported that Smith and his team planned to resign before Trumps inauguration on Jan. 20. Meanwhile, Trump said Monday that he intends to replace Colleen Shogan as head of the National Archives. We will have a new archivist, Trump told radio host Hugh Hewitt. In response to a request for comment, the Archives said in a statement Monday night that Shogan "has had a strong working relationship" with Trump and his team. "We look forward to continuing that relationship with the new administration," the statement said. The National Archives alerted the Justice Department in 2022 that Trump had potentially mishandled classified documents after he did not return all of the records it requested, according to the federal indictment. While Trump eventually turned over some of the requested documents, he withheld others.Shogan, the first woman to lead the agency, was not in the top post at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI later searched Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Florida, and Trump became the first former president charged with federal crimes. He pleaded not guilty and denied any wrongdoing. Presidents are required to turn their records over to the National Archives once they leave office. A Trump-appointed federal judge dismissed the case in July on the grounds that Smiths appointment had been unconstitutional. Smith appealed but was forced to wind down the case after Trumps election to a second term, given the Justice Departments long-standing policy that a sitting president cannot be prosecuted. Trump and his allies have repeatedly promised to investigate perceived opponents and critics. Trumps choice for FBI director, Kash Patel, has used claims of a deep state conspiracy to fuel his rise in Trumps circle and has pledged to go after judges, lawyers and journalists who have investigated Trump. The president has the authority to remove the head of the National Archives and choose a replacement, who must be confirmed by the Senate. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com On Tuesday, Donald Trump Jr. landed in Greenland, the Arctic island his father, President-elect Donald Trump, has expressed a strong desire to purchase, despite sharp statements from Greenland that it is not for sale. Trump Jr. framed the trip as a little bit of fun, telling CNN, as an outdoorsman, Im excited to stop into Greenland for this week. But the trip has fueled speculation about what exactly his fathers plans are for this Arctic territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In December, Trump revived calls made in his first presidency for US ownership of Greenland, calling it an absolute necessity. Asked at a Tuesday news conference whether he would rule out using military or economic coercion to gain Greenland or Panama, which Trump has also expressed desire to own the president-elect responded, No, I cant assure you on either of those two, but I can say this: We need them for economic security. The president-elect says owning Greenland is vital for US security, but experts say he may also be eyeing other aspects of Greenland such as its trove of natural resources including rare earth metals which may become more accessible as climate change melts the territorys ice. A unique geopolitical position Greenland is the worlds largest island and home to more than 56,000 people. A former Danish colony and now an autonomous territory of Denmark, it occupies a unique geopolitical position, sitting between the US and Europe. Its capital city Nuuk is closer to New York than it is to Denmarks capital Copenhagen. Its long been seen as key for US security, especially to repel a potential attack from Russia, said Ulrik Pram Gad, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies. The Northwest Passage shipping lane runs along its coast and the island is part of the Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom gap, a strategic maritime region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is not the first US president to float the idea of buying Greenland. In 1867, when President Andrew Johnson bought Alaska, he also considered purchasing Greenland. At the end of World War II, the Truman administration offered Denmark $100 million for the island, according to documents first reported on by Danish media. Neither offer came to fruition, but under a 1951 defense treaty, the US got an air base now called Pituffik Space Base, in northwest Greenland. Midway between Moscow and New York, its the northernmost outpost of the US armed forces and is equipped with a missile warning system. The US is keen to ensure no hostile great powers control Greenland, because it can be a foothold for attacking the US, Pram Gad told CNN. Rich in rare minerals What might be even more appealing to Trump, however, is Greenlands rich deposits of natural resources, said Klaus Dodds, professor of geopolitics at Royal Holloway, University of London. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These include oil and gas, as well as the rare earth metals in high demand for the electric cars and wind turbines of the green transition, as well as for manufacturing military equipment. One of many research stations on the Greenland ice sheet that scientists use to track its movement and elevation. - Julian Quinones/CNN Currently China dominates global rare earth production and has already threatened to restrict the export of critical minerals and associated technologies, ahead of Trumps second term. There is no question at all that Trump and his advisers are very concerned about the stranglehold that China appears to have, Dodds told CNN. Greenland offers a potentially rich source of these critical minerals, he added. I think Greenland is really about keeping China out. Opportunities as the ice melts Melting ice and rapidly rising Arctic temperatures are giving Greenland a front-row seat to the climate crisis, but some also see economic opportunities as climate change reshapes the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of ice has opened up shipping routes, increasing the amount of time they can be navigated during the Northern Hemisphere summer. Arctic shipping rose 37% over the decade to 2024, according to the Arctic Council, in part due to melting ice. Trump, I think, instinctively gets the idea that the Arctic is melting, and the perceived opportunities, Dodds said. Although he cautioned, in reality, conditions along these routes are still often treacherous, and melting ice may make waters even more dangerous to navigate. As the planet warms, Greenland's ice sloughs off of the island and into the Atlantic Ocean, where it melts and contributes to sea level rise. - Evelio Contreras/CNN There is also a suggestion that melting ice may make natural resources easier to access, but the climate crisis has not yet proved much of a game-changer for this, said Phillip Steinberg, a geography professor at the University of Durham. Its not that climate change is making Greenlands resources more accessible, he told CNN, but rather more necessary. Could it actually happen? The governments of both Denmark and Greenland have come out strongly against the idea the Arctic nation can be purchased. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our yearslong struggle for freedom, Greenlands Prime Minister Mute Egede wrote in a Facebook post in late December. Kuupik V. Kleist, a former prime minister of Greenland, said Trump was talking more to US citizens than to Greenlanders. I dont see anything in the future that would pave the way for a sale. You dont simply buy a country or a people, he told CNN. But Trumps comments come at an interesting time for Greenland, Dodds said. Its Inuit-led government has recently been ramping up demands for independence from Denmark. In his new year address, Egede called for the shackles of the colonial era to be removed. Its panicking Denmark, Dodds said, which appears to have been focusing more on its relationship with Greenland. In December, Denmark announced a huge increase in military spending for Greenland. Then, at the start of January, the Danish royal family launched a redesigned royal coat of arms, increasing the prominence of the polar bear symbolizing Greenland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Denmarks foreign minister said that Greenland may become independent if its residents want, but it wont become a US state, according to Reuters. We fully recognize that Greenland has its own ambitions. If they materialize, Greenland will become independent, though hardly with an ambition to become a federal state in the United States, Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said. The foreign minister also said that Denmark is open to a dialogue with the Americans on how we can possibly cooperate even more closely than we do to ensure that the American ambitions are fulfilled. Donald Trump Jr. poses after arriving in Nuuk, Greenland on January 7, 2025. - EMIL STACH/AFP/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Ima Greenland has been looking to boost its independence by diversifying its economy away from fishing. It opened a new airport in Nuuk in November as part of plans to increase tourism. But it still relies on a roughly $500 million annual grant from Denmark, which has proved a big sticking point to independence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This raises a very intriguing question, Dodds said. What would Greenland do if Trump offered, say, $1 billion a year to have a different kind of association? Some Greenlandic politicians have been floating the idea of a special association, similar to the one the US has with the Marshall Islands, where Greenland has sovereignty but also financial support from the US, in exchange for agreements on certain US strategic interests. Former Prime Minister Kleist expressed heavy skepticism this kind of association could work, however. I dont think either that (this) is of any interest. Just think of how the US have treated its own Indigenous Peoples. For now, it remains unclear how far Trump will pursue his stated desire to acquire Greenland once in office. Nobody knows if its just bravado, if its a threat to get something else, or if its actually something that he wants to do, said Pram Gad. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com By Jarrett Renshaw and Nichola Groom (Reuters) - President-Elect Donald Trump is weighing an executive order that seeks to protect gas-powered appliances including stoves and heaters from federal and local regulators who want to phase them out of homes and businesses, two sources familiar with the plans said. Republicans, including Trump, have spent the last few years attacking local Democratic efforts to limit gas-powered appliances in new construction projects amid environmental and health concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. consumer regulator said in 2023 it was reviewing gas appliances and links with respiratory conditions such as asthma, but noted that any regulation would be a lengthy process. Details of the executive order are still under discussion but are likely to mirror Congressional efforts to limit federal dollars for state and local initiatives that restrict gas-powered appliances or impose regulations that would increase their cost, the sources said. Trump's transition team did not respond to requests for comment. Gas-powered stoves, favored by cooks who like fast, high heat, have joined plastic straws in recent years as fodder in the U.S. culture wars between liberals trying to curb climate change by convincing Americans to rethink lifelong habits, and Republicans like Trump and business groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It speaks volumes when an order from the White House is needed to stop our own government from banning natural gas furnaces and water heaters," Karen Harbert, president of the American Gas Association, an industry trade group, said in a statement. "Despite the illegal efforts to ban access and use of natural gas, our industry is hard at work to keep life essential energy affordable and reliable especially during the extreme cold we are experiencing right now." Over 75 million U.S. households use natural gas for at least one appliance, mostly for home or water heat, according to the most recent residential energy consumption survey published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration in 2020. The survey found that more Americans are also turning to natural gas to cook and dry clothes. Some 47 million households used natural gas for cooking in 2020, up from 39 million in 2015, the survey found. Roughly two out of every five American homes have a gas stove, the survey found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREMATURE DEATHS While gas appliances first came under fire for their impact on climate change, over the last few years several studies have shown that gas stoves emit nitrogen oxides that are harmful to human health along with other planet-warming gases. A study last year by researchers at Jaume I University in Castello de la Plana, Spain, found that exposure to gas stove pollutants was responsible for about 40,000 premature deaths annually in the European Union and Britain. Dozens of Democratic-controlled cities, including San Francisco and Berkeley, California, have sought to restrict new buildings from using gas stoves as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve indoor air quality. New York state approved a law last month banning natural gas stoves and furnaces in most new buildings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those policies have faced legal challenges. Berkeley, the first city to enact such a ban, was barred from enforcing its policy by a U.S. appeals court ruling in 2023. It repealed the rule last year. In response to those policies, legislators in more than 20 Republican-led states have passed laws that prohibit local governments from restricting gas in buildings, according to S&P Global. The Energy Department, under President Joe Biden, proposed a rule requiring both gas and electric stoves and cooktops to use more efficient designs and technologies, but they scaled back the plan amid Republican and industry criticism. (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw and Nichola Groom; Editing by Heather Timmons and Lincoln Feast and Richard Chang) (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Donald Trump declined to rule out using military or economic coercion as he detailed plans to seek greater US influence over Greenland, Canada, and the Panama Canal during a press conference Tuesday. Most Read from Bloomberg Trump was asked explicitly if he would make clear he wasnt considering a military confrontation over his desire to win US control over Greenland or the Panama Canal, and responded that he was not going to commit to that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security, Trump said at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. He added that the US absorbing Canada would really be something, addressing his concerns over US military assistance and trade deficits with its northern neighbor. Weve been good neighbors, but we cant do it forever, Trump said. The comments, taken as a whole, represented a remarkable willingness by the incoming president to threaten US allies with coercion if they were unwilling to bend to his demands. While the chance of an actual military conflict is remote Trump has also championed his isolationist foreign policy and said he wanted to avoid putting US troops in harms way his implicit threats could upend longstanding relationships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said he would use high-level tariffs to persuade Denmark to give up Greenland, which is a self-ruling territory of the country. People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it but if they do, they should give it up because we need it for national security, Trump said. Thats for the free world, Im talking about protecting the free world. The remarks came after Trump earlier suggested hed look to expand US influence in the Western Hemisphere, including by changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, escalating a feud with a major neighboring trading partner and ally. Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring that covers a lot of territory, Trump said. What a beautiful name and its appropriate, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He didnt elaborate on how he would try to enact the renaming of the body of water. Trump also said he would use economic force to compel Canada to become the 51st state in the US, a development he has repeatedly floated in recent weeks. Trump said the US subsidizes Canada and doesnt need their products, including cars and milk. We basically protect Canada, Trump said. Were spending hundreds of billions a year to take care of Canada. We lose in trade deficits. Trump did not detail how he would go about achieving that change or provide more details on his plans. The incoming president assailed Mexico during the press conference, saying the country was taking advantage of the US in trade and was beset by massive problems, highlighting violence linked to drug gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a massive deficit with Mexico, and we help Mexico a lot. Theyre essentially run by the cartels, and we cant let that happen, Trump said. Mexico is really in trouble, a lot of trouble, very dangerous place, and were going to be announcing a future date. Pretty soon were going to change because we do most of the work there, and its ours. Trump has vowed to take a tougher stance against Mexico and Canada in his second term, threatening the countries with new tariffs if they do not do more to stem the flow of migrants and illegal drugs across US borders. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday declined to rule out using the U.S. military to acquire Greenland or the Panama Canal, ideas he has repeatedly floated since winning the election. It might be that youll have to do something, Trump said during an hourlong press conference at Mar-a-Lago when asked about whether he would vow to not use the military. I cant assure youyoure talking about Panama and Greenlandno, I cant assure you on either of those two. But I can say this: We need them for economic security. He threatened to hit Denmark with tariffs at a very high level if the country refuses to give over Greenland to the U.S., and questioned whether Denmark has any legal right over the Arctic island. People really dont even know if Denmark has any legal right to it, but if they do, they should give it up, because we need it for national security, Trump said. Officials in Denmark and Greenland have said that the island is not for sale; Panamas president has said that the Panama Canal is also not for sale. Trump has suggested that he might seek to regain control of the waterway, which was handed over to Panama in 1999 under a treaty brokered by then-President Jimmy Carter, who passed away Dec. 29. Trump has long criticized the agreement, claiming that Panama has overcharged the U.S. for access to the canal and that the countrys control of such a critical global chokepoint is harmful to American interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has offered few details on his apparent goals for territorial expansion, but his comments on Tuesday presented the clearest picture yet of how he envisions reshaping the U.S. geopolitical landscape. Trump also quipped that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state, but vowed not to use military forceonly economic forceto put pressure on the country. That would really be something, Trump said. You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and you take a look at what that looks like. And it would also be much better for national security. Trump also vowed to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of Americaa beautiful name, he saidand promised to impose significant tariffs on Mexico and Canada. The press conference, which took place one day after Congress formally certified his victory, marked Trumps second since he won the Nov. 5 election. He began his remarks by announcing a multibillion-dollar plan to build data centers across the U.S. bankrolled by investors from Dubai, an effort he called a great thing for American growth in artificial intelligence and technology. And with less than two weeks until Trump takes office for his second term, he made a final plea for Hamas to release the hostages kidnapped after the Oct. 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel. Trump warned that all hell will break out if the roughly 100 hostages are not released before his inauguration on Jan. 20. Steve Witkoff, Trumps special envoy to the Middle East, said at the press conference that he believes they are on the verge of securing the hostages release. But the mood shifted as Trump pivoted to familiar territory: complaining about his political rivals, particularly President Joe Biden, and attacking the legal challenges he faces from various investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His remarks showcased a President-elect determined to erase what he sees as obstacles to his agenda before he steps into the Oval Office. We are inheriting a difficult situation from the outgoing administration, and they're trying everything they can to make it more difficult, Trump said. He criticized Bidens final weeks in office, particularly an executive action to halt oil and gas drilling across 625 million acres of U.S. coastal waters. I'm going to put it back on day one, Trump pledged. Trumps remarks came as hes due to be sentenced in the New York hush-money trial on Friday after he was found guilty on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in May, and as hes fighting to block the release of special counsel Jack Smiths final report on findings into separate criminal cases. During the press conference, Aileen Cannon, the federal judge who handled Trumps classified documents case, temporarily barred Smith from releasing his final report on the investigation to the public. Trump attacked Judge Juan Merchan, who oversaw the New York case, calling him crooked. (Merchan has signaled that Trump will not receive jail time at the sentencing on Friday.) And Trump railed against Smith, calling him a deranged individual. Smith dismissed his two federal cases against Trump after he won the election. Trump also confirmed that he is considering pardons for many of the people convicted in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot, including some individuals charged with violent offenses. People that were doing some bad things werent prosecuted, and people that didnt even walk into the building are in jail right now. So, well be looking at the whole thing. But Ill be making major pardons, yes, Trump said. His promise to pardon riot defendants has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it would embolden extremist elements and undermine the legal process. Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com. If Donald Trump thought he was settling the GOP's most important strategy dispute, Senate Republicans are not getting the message. Less than 24 hours after Trump endorsed "one powerful bill" to carry his domestic policy agenda, a dozen senators said in interviews that the legislative path to its enactment remains an open question. It underscores the mounting confusion as Republicans feel pressure to show quick progress on border, energy and tax priorities. The senators do agree on this: They're ready to follow Trump's lead. But they're not convinced he is firmly planted yet in the one-bill camp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump fueled the latest uncertainty Monday morning in an interview where he acknowledged he wasn't necessarily wedded to any plan: "I'm open to either way as soon as we get something passed as quickly as possible," he told radio host Hugh Hewitt. Asked what he thought Trump wanted, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) responded with a laugh: What day is it?' Its an early reality check heading into a second Trump term. The returning presidents decision-making isnt exactly reliable, raising the risk that Republicans who presume to know what he wants might soon find themselves crosswise with his actual wishes. The stakes are huge, with the call over whether to move one bill or two having major implications for whether Trump can follow through on his campaign pledges before potentially losing unified GOP control of Washington in two years. Ive heard the president say that hes now on the one side, but he doesnt oppose the two side, said incoming Senate Finance Chair Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), who will play a lead role in advancing tax cuts that Trump wants. We still need a plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans on both ends of the Capitol had been privately hoping that Trump would publicly make a play call, ending the debate that has split the top two congressional leaders. Newly minted Senate Majority Leader John Thune wants two bills, allowing for a quick border-focused package, while Speaker Mike Johnson, mindful of uniting his tiny House majority, has thrown his weight behind just one. They need to settle on a plan as soon as possible: To unlock the budget reconciliation process needed to skirt a Democratic filibuster, Republicans have to quickly agree on the fiscal parameters of their agenda. And answering the one-bill-or-two question is a prerequisite for doing so. Democrats looked on with amusement Monday, recalling their own internal turmoil over reconciliation in 2021 and 2022 with a president in Joe Biden who sent clearer signals about what he wanted. Good luck, said Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.). I think that Donald Trump agrees with whoever he speaks with last, so that's why you have the one bill, two bills' [debate]. If you don't know if you're gonna go for one package or two, you can't really start negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Senate Republicans insist the House should be the first to act anyway, given the House GOPs struggles to come together last Congress, when they had a high-water mark of 222 seats. Now, Johnson will have no more than 220 votes at full strength, with one vacancy already and two others anticipated after Trumps inauguration. This is going to start in the House, because we're going to be focused on nominations, said Sen. John Curtis (R-Utah), who served in the House until just last week. On the other hand, if they can't get it done, then we'll take a look at another way. Tuberville added: Im for whatever the House can get done. Weve got nothing to say about it. [But] weve got to get it done pretty quickly. If Trump settles definitively on one large bill, several GOP senators told POLITICO on Monday they will go along with that plan. While there are myriad looming fights over the specifics of the bill including Trumps suggestion Sunday that tariffs could help pay for it the conference is largely deferring to him on the topline decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We just need to all get on the same page. And I think now that President Trump has expressed a preference for one bill, thats where I expect us to go, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) said. Yet some senators are continuing to argue for a two-bill approach. They include such Trump allies as Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), who said he still wants border-related legislation done first, and incoming Senate Budget Committee Chair Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who plays a key role as a gatekeeper to the reconciliation process. The threat levels I see, I think we would be smart to increase military spending and give the money Trump needs to deport people and secure the border early on, and I just think the national security implications of delay are pretty significant, Graham said. Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), the No. 2 GOP leader, said he, too, still saw the wisdom in a two-bill approach: You secure the border, that makes this president happy, that makes the base happy. But he said Republican senators are likely going to meet with [Trump] relatively shortly to discuss things further. Two people familiar with the planning, granted anonymity to discuss a private meeting, said that Senate Republicans are expected to meet with Trump on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Caught uncomfortably in the middle of it all is Thune, who officially became GOP leader last week and has had a bumpy relationship with Trump in the past. Thune last month became the first prominent Republican to sketch out a blueprint for enacting the GOP policy agenda. During a closed-door retreat last month, he told his members they would pursue one quick bill focusing on the border, defense and energy, saving the trickier subject of taxes for a subsequent bill. Still, Thune and Trump have spoken regularly as of late, including about their reconciliation approach. Speaking to Hewitt on Monday, Trump paid heed to the Senate leader even as he backed Johnsons plan for now: We have a lot of respect for Sen. Thune, as you know. He may have a little bit of a different view. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a member of leadership, spoke for many of her GOP colleagues in saying she could back a one- or two-bill approach and prefers above all something that can pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's become clear that the conversation's evolving, she said. And so, I would say, I'm sure Thune will be on board with the president, I would imagine. But I don't know. Daniella Diaz contributed to this report. 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: Regional sex differences by effect size after controlling for total brain volume. Credit: Biology of Sex Differences (2024). DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00657-5 Gray matter is made up of neuron cell bodies and dendrites and is responsible for processing and interpreting information, such as sensation, perception, learning, speech, and cognition. White matter is made up of axons, which are long nerve fibers that connect neurons together from different parts of the brain. In the study, male brains tended to be greater in volume than female brains. When adjusted for total brain volume, female infants on average had significantly more gray matter, while male infants on average had significantly more white matter in their brains. Yumnah Khan, a Ph.D. student at the Autism Research Center at the University of Cambridge, who led the study, said, "Our study settles an age-old question of whether male and female brains differ at birth. We know there are differences in the brains of older children and adults, but our findings show that they are already present in the earliest days of life. "Because these sex differences are evident so soon after birth, they might in part reflect biological sex differences during prenatal brain development, which then interact with environmental experiences over time to shape further sex differences in the brain." One problem that has plagued past research in this area is sample size. The Cambridge team tackled this by analyzing data from the Developing Human Connectome Project, where infants receive an MRI brain scan soon after birth. Having over 500 newborn babies in the study means that, statistically, the sample is ideal for detecting sex differences if they are present. A second problem is whether any observed sex differences could be due to other factors, such as differences in body size. The Cambridge team found that, on average, male infants had significantly larger brain volumes than did females, and this was true even after sex differences in birth weight were taken into account. After taking this difference in total brain volume into account, at a regional level, females on average showed larger volumes in gray matter areas related to memory and emotional regulation, while males on average had larger volumes in gray matter areas involved in sensory processing and motor control. The findings of the study, the largest to date to investigate this question, are published in the journal Biology of Sex Differences. Dr. Alex Tsompanidis, who supervised the study, said, "This is the largest such study to date, and we took additional factors into account, such as birth weight, to ensure that these differences are specific to the brain and not due to general size differences between the sexes. "To understand why males and females show differences in their relative gray and white matter volume, we are now studying the conditions of the prenatal environment, using population birth records, as well as in vitro cellular models of the developing brain. This will help us compare the progression of male and female pregnancies and determine if specific biological factors, such as hormones or the placenta, contribute to the differences we see in the brain." The researchers stress that the differences between males and females are average differences. Dr. Carrie Allison, Deputy Director of the Autism Research Center, said, "The differences we see do not apply to all males or all females, but are only seen when you compare groups of males and females together. There is a lot a variation within, and a lot of overlap between, each group." Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, Director of the Autism Research Center, added, "These differences do not imply the brains of males and females are better or worse. It's just one example of neurodiversity. This research may be helpful in understanding other kinds of neurodiversity, such as the brain in children who are later diagnosed as autistic, since this is diagnosed more often in males." More information: Yumnah T. Khan et al, Sex Differences in Human Brain Structure at Birth, Biology of Sex Differences (2024). DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00657-5 Keith Kellogg, US President-elect Donald Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, has postponed his planned trip to Kyiv and other European capitals until after Trump's inauguration on 20 January. Source: Reuters with reference to its sources Details: Retired lieutenant general Keith Kellogg had initially planned to visit Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian leaders in early January. His team had also been preparing meetings with officials in other European capitals, including Rome and Paris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trip, which was meant to be the first visit of the new Trump administration officials to Kyiv after the 5 November elections, has been postponed. Kellogg is now expected to visit Ukraine after Trump takes office, though the exact date of the visit has not been determined. The reason for Kelloggs postponement remains unclear. Reuters noted that neither Kellogg nor a representative of the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington responded to requests for comment. "Trump repeatedly said on the campaign trail that he could solve the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office, but he has made little progress toward that end. Still, attempting to quickly wind down the conflict remains a key priority of his incoming administration," the publication stated. Background: At the end of November, Trump announced he had chosen retired General Keith Kellogg as special representative for Ukraine and Russia. Support UP or become our patron! The visit of General Keith Kellogg, US Special Envoy for Russia and Ukraine, will take place "in due time". Source: Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a press conference with his Icelandic counterpart, Katrin Gunnarsdottir, in Kyiv, as reported by European Pravda, citing Interfax-Ukraine Quote from Sybiha: "The meeting and visits of General Kellogg are extremely important for us. I am sure that this meeting will take place in due time. We are in contact to clearly define the time frame to hold it [the meeting]. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For us, this meeting and General Kellogg's visits are extremely important. And I am sure that this meeting will take place in due time." Details: The foreign minister also stressed that Ukraine welcomes "all visits from our American friends". Quote from Sybiha: "This is the first position. The second is that we hope that after the inauguration [of US President Trump], the new administration heads first visits will be to Ukraine." Background: Reuters reported, citing four sources from Trump's inner circle, that Keith Kellogg had postponed his trip to Kyiv, which had been planned earlier. The US general said he was preparing visits to listen to both parties' positions on the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! The Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) has conducted a survey on public trust in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, revealing that distrust has increased to 39% over the past year, while 52% of Ukrainians continue to trust the head of state. Source: KIIS in a press release Quote: "It is worth focusing on the dynamics of trust over the course of a year, i.e. from December 2023 to December 2024. At the end of 2023, 77% trusted the president, but by February 2024, the trust had dropped to 64%, and by May 2024, it had dropped to 59% (while the share of those who do not trust the president increased from 22% to 36% over the same period)." Infographic: KIIS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: KIIS notes that trust stabilised in October, though there was a decline in December. This decrease was not driven by an increase in distrust but by growing uncertainty among respondents, with a rise in uncertain responses rather than a surge in distrust between October and December. KIIS concluded that as of December 2024, 52% of Ukrainians trusted President Zelenskyy, while 39% did not. The remaining 9% were undecided. Despite a decline in the trust index over the year, the balance of trust and distrust remained positive at +13%. The survey, which had 2,000 respondents, was conducted from 2 to 17 December 2024. It focused on Ukrainian citizens aged 18 and older who resided in territories controlled by the Ukrainian government at the time. The sample excluded residents of areas temporarily not under Ukrainian control but did include temporarily displaced persons. The survey did not cover citizens who left Ukraine after 24 February 2022. The statistical error of the sample of about 1,000 respondents did not exceed 4.1% for indicators close to 50%, 3.5% for indicators close to 25%, 2.5% for indicators close to 10% and 1.8% for indicators close to 5%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: In recent surveys, KIIS found that the number of Ukrainians who believe in a bright future for Ukraine has been declining for the second consecutive year. KIIS also noted a decline in the number of Ukrainians willing to bear the burden of war for as long as necessary. Later, KIIS reported that by the end of 2024, the number of Ukrainians willing to consider territorial concessions for peace had increased, while the proportion of those categorically opposed to any concessions had decreased. Support UP or become our patron! The winter storm from this weekend has moved on but the intensely cold air is now overstaying its welcome. Check out the quick links below for more about this weekends storm impacts! -Check HERE for the latest road information from MoDOT -Check HERE for the latest school closings -Check HERE for the latest snow & ice pictures Download our KOLR 10 weather app Something else overstaying its welcome, clouds. Sunshine managed to break out north of the interstate by late morning, but clouds have been highly resistant to moving on further south. Skies are still expected to fully clear overnight with a bright day expected Wednesday. With the clear conditions overnight, temperatures will get colder than Monday night and will remain well below freezing again Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Winds shift to be out of the southwest on Wednesday night and well have a shot at breaking the freezing mark on Thursday. Itll be a race against cloud cover to reach freezing in the afternoon though as our next chance for snow showers develops Thursday night. A southern winter storm threat will hit areas from Texas through the South Thursday through Friday. The Ozarks will be on the northern edge of this snow threat. Snow accumulation in Missouri may have to battle dry air which would cut into snow amounts. Amounts look more significant south of the state line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snow-covered roads are likely Friday morning. Temperatures wont warm much with highs near freezing. This should keep snow around into the weekend. This will be a much more impactful storm to the south across Arkansas and into other parts of the South. Amounts will be greater and resources to deal with snow and sleet on roads are much more scarce. This will make travel inadvisable Friday into the weekend across Arkansas and into Texas, east into Mississippi. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. It took nearly 30 years after the fact to arrest the only man ever charged with the murder of famed rapper Tupac Shakur -- and that alleged killer's lawyer now says, that delay is exactly one of the reasons those charges should be dismissed. In a motion filed Monday in Las Vegas, Duane "Keffe D" Davis said his constitutional rights have been violated through an "unjustified" lengthy lag time making for "dimming of memories, the death or disappearance of witnesses, and the loss or destruction of material physical evidence." "Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department as far back as 2009 was in possession of the same set of facts that the Clark County District Attorney is now alleging makes Mr. Davis responsible for the murder of Tupac Shakur," Davis' attorney Carl Arnold said in his filing, claiming Clark County's District Attorney Office "has offered no reason as to why it waited another 14 years to prosecute a case against" his client, and that Davis's case had been "irreversibly" compromised, his rights violated "in an extraordinary manner never before witnessed in the annals of the American criminal justice system." PHOTO: Tupac Shakur Live In Concert (Raymond Boyd/Getty Images) MORE: Tupac Shakur murder: The untold story of why it took nearly 3 decades to make an arrest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arnold argued prosecutors have no corroborating evidence aside from Davis' confessions that the evidence "comes solely from Mr. Davis' statements," and without independent sets of facts the indictment against him "must be dismissed." "Too many witnesses have died and the unavailability of evidence has occurred during the prosecution's delay of this matter," Arnold said, itemizing the names of those allegedly on the scene of Shakur's 1996 drive-by shooting near the Vegas strip from Suge Knight, driving the BMW with Shakur, to the three men allegedly in the Cadillac with Davis, to Sean "Diddy" Combs, whom, Davis has claimed, solicited a $1 million hit on Knight and Shakur, as ABC News has reported. But because all these men are either dead or incarcerated, Arnold said, they are unfortunately unavailable. To cap it off, Arnold argued, an immunity agreement initially promised to Davis by cops who first enticed him to start telling his story is not being honored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Combs has long vehemently denied any role in Shakur's shooting. As ABC News reported last year, Davis confessed to his role in the Shakur homicide in 2008 to detectives on a joint federal-Los Angeles task force. According to police at the time, Davis made his admissions as part of what's known as a "proffer agreement," so what he told investigators could not be used against him in court. Then in 2009, Davis sat down with Las Vegas detectives to tell his version of events again -- and again confirmed his "shot caller" role in Shakur's killing, police said. Arnold now argues the original proffer should still hold now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The State of Nevada was in possession in 2009 of the facts that led to [Davis'] arrest in 2023, specifically, his alleged statement that he was in the white Cadillac and handed the gun to the back seat passengers, which was utilized to shoot Tupac Shakur," Arnold said, and prosecutors "must now honor the initial proffer agreement of 2008 and the LVMPD's promise not to prosecute Mr. Davis." PHOTO: US-NEWS-SHAKUR-SLAYING-3-LV (Las Vegas Review-journal/TNS) MORE: Tupac Shakur timeline: Key events in rapper's murder investigation Davis' attorney argues prosecutors are "refusing to honor the agreements provided to Mr. Davis by the federal government and by LVMPD." But LVMPD had no role in the joint task force agreement, and Vegas detectives did not promise never to prosecute Davis, according to interview recordings and transcripts previously reviewed by ABC -- only that they were not there to arrest Davis at the time of that confession, which was not a proffer but rather a voluntary statement, prosecutors have said -- and in fact at that time Davis acknowledged that no authorities from Las Vegas had promised him anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was concern among Vegas authorities then, in 2009, that Davis would argue in court that both sets of alleged confessions were inadmissible because the proffer gave him immunity even though Las Vegas police had no role in making the agreement, officials have told ABC. And, if a judge were to side with Davis, they figured, that would likely have doomed any prosecution. MORE: New details emerge after home searched in Tupac Shakur murder case But in the proceeding years, that became a non-issue because Davis would ultimately go on to repeatedly recount his confessional role in the killing, not only to police but in the media, including in a 2018 docuseries and on the pages of the memoir he would publish in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis' own public words reinvigorated the investigation, the lead of Vegas' homicide bureau, Lt. Jason Johansson told ABC last year, and would be key in the case against him and would ultimately land him in the Las Vegas jail where he now has been held since his Sept. 2023 arrest. A hearing has been scheduled to argue over Davis' motion to dismiss on Jan. 21. His trial is set for March 17. Tupac murder suspect 'Keffe D' asks for charges to be dismissed in new filing originally appeared on abcnews.go.com ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkey will carry out a cross-border offensive into northeastern Syria against the Kurdish YPG militia if the group does not meet Ankara's demands, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Tuesday, while adding that Syria's new rulers must address the issue. Turkey considers the YPG, which spearheads the U.S.-allied Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as a terrorist group linked to Kurdish militants waging a decades-old insurgency against the Turkish state. While repeatedly asking its NATO ally Washington to halt its support for the group, Ankara has carried out several incursions against the YPG in the past and controls swathes of territory in northern Syria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad last month by rebels, some of whom Turkey has supported, Ankara has demanded that the YPG disband, its non-Syrian militants and foreign terrorist fighters leave Syria or are repatriated to their source countries, and its leaders turn themselves in. Speaking to broadcaster CNN Turk, Fidan said Turkey believed the new Syrian administration must address the issue of the YPG's presence, but added this may take time as a transition period is underway in Damascus. Asked what Turkey would do if Damascus was unable to address the issue, Fidan said "whatever is necessary". When asked what that entailed, he said "a military operation", while adding that the new Syrian leadership had the power to battle the YPG on its own as well. The SDF played a key role in defeating Islamic State militants in 2014-2017. The group still guards Islamic State fighters in prison camps there, but has been on the back foot since Assad's fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turkey has said that the new Syrian leadership has conveyed its proposal to take over the management of those camp prisons. Fidan, who was the first foreign minister to visit Damascus since Assad's fall last month, said Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan had ordered that Turkish soldiers take over the management of the camp prisons if the new Syrian leadership is unable to do so. (Reporting by Tuvan GumrukcuEditing by Gareth Jones and Paul Simao) Poppy on Grand Avenue in St. Paul, the boutique's last remaining location, will close at the end of the month. Owner Jill Henderson, who has operated Poppy for nearly 15 years, said in an announcement that family comes first and she'll be spending more time with her two teenagers and caring for her parents, who are in their mid-80s. Henderson also cited the challenges of owning a small business on Grand Avenue, which has faced an accelerating trend of long-term vacancies impacting storefronts owned by the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview last year, Chris Jensen, president of the Grand Avenue Business Association (GABA), said he believes inflexible and costly lease terms from the out-of-state landlord are behind the vacancies, which he said don't represent the overall strength of Grand Avenue. Poppy at 867 Grand Avenue in St. Paul. Photo by Christine Schuster | Bring Me The News. In the closing announcement, Henderson said the property owner has "gutted the storefronts" on Grand Avenue and "made it really, really, really HARD to be a small business on Grand", as if retail isn't hard enough, she wrote. In a Facebook comment on Poppy's closure announcement, Rachael Hartzler, owner of the Grand Hand Gallery, wrote: "I'm super discouraged about the impact the Ohio Teacher's Retirement Union is having on Grand Avenue businesses." "You have always been a bright spot in the local community, Jill," she continued. "We'll really miss your presence." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You will be missed!" commented Kim Ditter. "Anytime I wear something from Poppy, I get a compliment! Such a clever & unique store." Poppy's mark on the Twin Cities The boutique's founding store, originally known as Poppy Togs and Clogs, opened in 2011 at 251 Snelling Avenue South. The business has been best known for its collection of colorful dresses and bold accessories, as well Troentorp Clogs. During the 2010s, Poppy expanded to Minneapolis with a store in Linden Hills and opened a third location near Grand and Victoria avenues in St. Paul - all three stores hosted regular shopping events. The Minneapolis store closed in 2019 and the closure of the flagship Snelling Avenue location followed in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poppy's last day on Grand Avenue is set for Thursday, Jan. 30. Closing sales are currently underway and free earrings are offered with any purchase over $50. The store is open daily from 9 a.m. until 6 Related: Shopping channel ShopHQ laying off 122 workers in Eden Prairie 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 Tuberculosis remains a public health crisis. The World Health Organization's Global Tuberculosis Report released in November 2024 painted a sobering picture; approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB in 2023, the highest number since the organization began global TB monitoring in 1995. A major challenge in tuberculosis treatment has been the long duration needed to effectively treat the disease. In the latest clinical practice guidelines from the American Thoracic Society, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, European Respiratory Society and Infectious Diseases Society of America, an expert panel shared new recommendations for all-oral, shorter treatment regimens for TB in eligible children and adults. The guidelines were released online on Dec. 30, 2024 in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. "There has been a quest and concerted effort to develop shorter treatments for TB, after decades of little drug development," said Jussi Saukkonen, MD, ATSF, one of the lead authors of the guidelines. "With recent studies we have been able to shorten the regimen durations for both drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB for most patients, down to four and six months, respectively." However, the panel notes that "For those who are not eligible for these shorter regimens, the 2016 and 2019 recommendations should be consulted." Using the thorough, evidence-based Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation or GRADE framework, the expert panel made the following recommendations for patients with tuberculosis: In adolescents and adults with drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis, is a four-month regimen composed of two months of isoniazid, rifapentine, pyrazinamide, and moxifloxacin followed by two months of isoniazid, rifapentine, and moxifloxacin (2HPZM/2HPM) as efficacious and safe as the standard six-month drug-susceptible TB regimen of two months of isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol (2HRZE) followed by four months of isoniazid, and rifampin (4HR)? In people aged 12 years or older with drug-susceptible pulmonary tuberculosis, we conditionally recommend the use of a 4-month regimen of isoniazid, rifapentine, moxifloxacin, and pyrazinamide (conditional recommendation, moderate certainty of evidence). In children and adolescents with non-severe, drug-susceptible pulmonary TB, is a four-month regimen composed of standard-dose two months of isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol followed by two months of isoniazid and rifampin (2HRZE/2HR) as efficacious and safe as the standard 6-month drug-susceptible TB regimen of two months of isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol followed by four months of isoniazid and rifampin (2HRZE/4HR)? In children and adolescents between 3 months and 16 years of age with non-severe TB (without suspicion or evidence of multidrug-resistant rifampin-resistant TB), we recommend the use of a 4-month treatment regimen of 2HRZ(E)/2HR rather than the 6-month drug-susceptible TB regimen of 2HRZ(E)/4HR (strong recommendation, moderate certainty of evidence). In adolescents aged 14 and older and adults with rifampin-resistant pulmonary TB, is a 6-month bedaquiline, pretomanid, and linezolid (BPaL) regimen as efficacious and safe as the current 15-month or longer drug-resistant TB regimens? In adolescents aged 14 and older and adults with rifampin-resistant pulmonary TB with resistance or patient intolerance to fluoroquinolones, who either have had no previous exposure to bedaquiline and linezolid or have been exposed for less than 1 month, we recommend the use of the 6-month treatment BPaL regimen, rather than more than 15-month regimens (strong recommendation, very low certainty of evidence). In adolescents aged 14 and older and adults with rifampin-resistant, fluoroquinolone-susceptible pulmonary TB, is a 6-month bedaquiline, pretomanid, linezolid, and moxifloxacin (BPaLM) regimen as effective and safe as the 15-month or longer drug-resistant TB regimens? In adolescents aged 14 and older and adults with rifampinresistant, fluoroquinolone-susceptible pulmonary TB, we recommend the use of a 6-month BPaLM treatment regimen, rather than the 15-month or longer regimens in patients with MDR/RR-TB (strong recommendation, very low certainty of evidence). "While these new regimens have allowed significant treatment shortening, it is important to recognize that drug-resistance in TB isolates could emerge with incomplete adherence to these regimens," cautioned Dr. Saukkonen. "Directly observed treatment, close monitoring for safety and effectiveness of regimens, and drug-susceptibility testing are essential to the effective treatment of TB and for the overall success of TB programs." Two prisoners who are among the 37 federal inmates whose death sentences were commuted last month by President Joe Biden a move that spares them from the death chamber have taken an unusual stance: They're refusing to sign paperwork accepting his clemency action. Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, both inmates at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, filed emergency motions in federal court in the state's southern district on Dec. 30 seeking an injunction to block having their death sentences commuted to life in prison without parole. The men believe that having their sentences commuted would put them at a legal disadvantage as they seek to appeal their cases based on claims of innocence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courts look at death penalty appeals very closely in a legal process known as heightened scrutiny, in which courts should examine death penalty cases for errors because of the life and death consequences of the sentence. The process doesn't necessarily lead to a greater likelihood of success, but Agofsky suggested he doesnt want to lose that additional scrutiny. "To commute his sentence now, while the defendant has active litigation in court, is to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny. This constitutes an undue burden, and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, which would decimate his pending appellate procedures, according to Agofsky's filing. Davis wrote in his filing that he "has always maintained that having a death sentence would draw attention to the overwhelming misconduct" he alleges against the Justice Department. He also wrote that he "thanks court for its prompt attention to this fast-moving constitutional conundrum. The case law on this issue is quite murky." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But inmates face a daunting challenge in having their death sentences restored, said Dan Kobil, a professor of constitutional law at Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio, who has represented defendants in death penalty and clemency cases. A 1927 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, for example, maintains that a president has the power to grant reprieves and pardons, and "the convict's consent is not required." The Terre Haute Federal Correctional Complex in Indiana. There are instances of prisoners who have refused a commutation because they would rather be executed, Kobil said, but just like "we impose sentences for the public welfare, the president and governors in states commute sentences for the public welfare." Robin Maher, executive director of the nonprofit Death Penalty Information Center, added that the vast majority of inmates on federal death row were grateful for Biden's decision, "which is constitutionally authorized and absolute." The Justice Department's Office of the Pardon Attorney did not immediately respond Monday to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agofsky was convicted in the 1989 murder of a bank president, Dan Short, whose body was found in an Oklahoma lake. Federal prosecutors said Agofsky and his brother, Joseph Agofsky, abducted and killed Short before stealing $71,000 from his bank. A jury declined to convict Joseph Agofsky of murder, but he received a life sentence for the robbery, while Shannon Agofsky received a life sentence on murder and robbery charges. Joseph Agofsky died in prison in 2013. Shannon Agofsky, while incarcerated in a Texas prison, was convicted in the 2001 stomping death of a fellow inmate, Luther Plant, and a jury recommended a death sentence in 2004. In his filing seeking an injunction for Biden's commutation, Agofsky, 53, said that he is disputing how he was charged with murder in the stomping death and that he is also trying to "establish his innocence in the original case for which he was incarcerated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The defendant never requested commutation. The defendant never filed for commutation," the filing says. "The defendant does not want commutation, and refused to sign the papers offered with the commutation." Agofsky's wife, Laura, who married him in 2019 in a ceremony over the phone, said Monday that his lawyers had urged him to request a presidential commutation in his case, but he refused because his status as a death row inmate afforded him legal counsel that is critical in his appeals. However, Laura Agofsky said her husband still has lawyers who are helping him. Solely having his sentence commuted is "not a win for him," she said, because she believes there is evidence that can prove his innocence. "He doesn't want to die in prison being labeled a cold-blooded killer," Laura Agofsky said in a phone interview. Davis, a former New Orleans police officer, was convicted in the 1994 murder of Kim Groves, who had filed a complaint against him accusing him of beating a teenager in her Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood. Prosecutors said Davis hired a drug dealer to kill Groves and charged the officer with violating Groves' civil rights. Davis' original death sentence was thrown out by a federal appeals court but reinstated in 2005. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was part of a sprawling federal investigation into corruption within the New Orleans police force. Davis, 60, "has always maintained his innocence and argued that federal court had no jurisdiction to try him for civil rights offenses," his filing says. Both Davis and Agofsky are asking a judge to appoint a co-counsel in their requests for an injunction of the commutations. Maher, of the Death Penalty Information Center, said all people accused of federal crimes have a constitutional right to counsel for trial, as well as a statutory right in appeals if they are convicted, regardless of whether they are death row cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Death sentences are the most extreme sanction that can be given in a criminal case, and they deserve the highest quality legal representation and judicial scrutiny," Maher said. Biden's decision to commute the sentences of 37 of the 40 federal death row prisoners, all men, came after weeks of speculation. He was praised by a coalition of human rights and anti-death penalty groups that have expressed opposition to President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to expand federal executions in his second term. The Justice Department under Biden imposed a moratorium on executions. "I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level," Biden said in a statement announcing the commutation. "In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden, however, declined to grant commutations to three federal death row prisoners who were involved in either mass killings or terrorist attacks. Still, the president has faced criticism for commuting the sentences of the 37 others. The Office of the Independent Police Monitor in New Orleans, a civilian police oversight agency created in 2009, said commuting Davis' death sentence is "a painful reminder that justice is not always served as it should be." "In this action, President Biden showed more mercy for Davis than this corrupt officer ever showed for Kim Groves, her children and family, and the people of New Orleans," the office said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laura Agofsky, a German citizen who first connected with her husband as pen pals and has yet to meet him in person, said she realizes that reversing the commutation is an uphill battle, but he remains focused on appealing his case. "We've been talking about the possibility of a commutation ever since Biden was elected, given his past statements about the death penalty," said Laura Agofsky, who has become an advocate for her husband and works with the German Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. (Germany does not have capital punishment.) While Biden's announcement was "a very black day for us," she added, "now, with the knowledge he will keep his lawyers, we know they will fight for him." This article was originally published on NBCNews.com President Joe Biden had the death sentences of 37 federal inmates commuted last monthbut two of those prisoners are refusing to sign the paperwork that would save them from the death chamber. Bidens clemency action sees the inmates death sentences being commuted to life in prison without parole. The two prisoners, Shannon Agofsky and Len Davis, are reportedly both filing emergency motions in federal court seeking an injunction to block their sentence change, according to NBC News . The duo are both inmates at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana and filed the motions in the states southern district on Dec. 30 believing that the commutations would affect their plans to appeal their cases on claims of innocence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former New Orleans police officer, Davis was convicted in 1994 in the murder of Kim Groves, a local resident who filed a complaint alleging that he had beaten a teenager in her neighborhood. At the time, prosecutors said that Davis hired a drug dealer to kill Groves and charged him with violating Groves civil rights. While his death sentence was initially appealed by a federal appeals court, it was reinstated in 2005. Davis filing reads that he has always maintained his innocence and argued that federal court had no jurisdiction to try him for civil rights offenses. U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at the White House on July 14, 2024 in Washington, DC. / Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images His filing also argues that he has always maintained that having a death sentence would draw attention to the overwhelming misconduct he alleges against the Justice Department. Meanwhile, Agofsky was convicted in 1989 for the murder of Oklahoma bank president Dan Short. Prosecutors said Agofsky and his brother, Joseph, abducted and killed Short and proceeded to steal $71,000 from his bank, according to NBC News. His brother, who died in prison in 2013, received a life sentence for the robbery, though the jury didnt convict him of murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shannon Agofsky however, was convicted of both murder and theft and received a life sentence. He also received a separate conviction in 2001 where he was found guilty of stomping a fellow inmate at a Texas prison to death. A jury recommended the death sentence in 2004. In his filing, Agofsky disputes how he was charged in the stomping incident and said hes trying to establish his innocence in the original case for which he was incarcerated. Moreover, Agofsky suggested in his filing that he didnt want to lose the option of a legal process known as heightened scrutiny by accepting Bidens clemency. Considering that ones life is at risk, death penalty appeals prompt a heightened scrutiny process, where courts closely examine the case for any errors under the urgency of the penaltys life-or-death consequences. While the process does not always lead to success, Agofskys filing reads: To commute his sentence now, while the defendant has active litigation in court, is to strip him of the protection of heightened scrutiny. This constitutes an undue burden, and leaves the defendant in a position of fundamental unfairness, which would decimate his pending appellate procedures. The defendant never requested commutation. The defendant never filed for commutation, the filing continued. The defendant does not want commutation, and refused to sign the papers offered with the commutation. Jan. 6Two former Youth Development Center employees are set to go to trial back-to-back as part of a sweeping investigation into abuse at the former juvenile detention facility in the 1990s and 2000s. On Monday, juries were seated in cases against Stephen Murphy and Stanley Watson. Watson's trial is set to begin Tuesday and last three days and Murphy's is set to begin on Jan. 15 and also last three days. The two are among eight former workers facing criminal trials as part of the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watson, 55, of Allenstown, has been charged with three counts of aggravated felonious sexual assault, which took place in 1997, according to court documents. Prosecutors said during a bail hearing Watson traded sexual favors for food and other privileges, and threatened to send one boy to a more restrictive unit if he did not engage in sex acts. A Hillsborough County grand jury indicted Murphy on 26 charges of aggravated felonious sexual assault, between Oct. 26, 1997, and Sept. 30, 1998. According to the indictment, Murphy sexually assaulted a teenage boy by using his position of authority to coerce the victim. The first criminal trial against a former YDC worker Victor Malavet, who faces 12 charges of aggravated felonious sexual assault for incidents that allegedly took place between June and November 2001 ended in a mistrial in September after the jury deadlocked. The case is set to be retried in June. Bradley Asbury, 69, was found guilty in November of holding down a 14-year-old boy in a staircase with another worker as two other youth counselors raped him in the 1990s. Sentencing has been set for Jan. 27 in that case. Two teens were arrested after allegedly breaking into multiple vehicles overnight on Monday and stealing valuable items. The juveniles, whose names will not be released due to their age, are charged with three counts of breaking and entering into a vehicle, one count of larceny over $1,200, one count of larceny under $1,200, credit card fraud under $1,200, and conspiracy. According to Milford Police, the dispatch center received multiple 911 calls from residents the morning of January 6 saying that items were stolen from their cars overnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the assistance of social media videos posted by residents and an investigation by Milford Police Detectives, two suspects were identified and a search warrant was executed on their residences. Police say they recovered multiple stolen items from the suspects houses. Cases like this can be very difficult to solve, Im proud of our Detectives for bringing an expedited resolution to this matter, said Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino. Our relationship with our community and their eagerness to share their own video footage was an immense help in establishing an investigative timeline. This is an unfortunate but timely reminder that no matter how safe our community is, to always lock your vehicle and never leave any items in plain view. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW HOBBS, New Mexico (KMID/KPEJ)- Two suspects allegedly involved in a shooting, kidnapping, and robbery crime spree, were arrested Thursday afternoon. According to the Hobbs Police Department, around 8:22 a.m., on Thursday, January 2, police responded to the intersection of Sanger and Grimes after a woman was reportedly suffering from a gunshot wound. Officials reported that the suspect fled the area before law enforcements arrival. Hobbs EMS later arrived at the scene and transported the woman to Covenant Health Hobbs Hospital, where she was later flown to a Texas hospital. Her injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon further investigation, it was found that the shooting took place near the intersection of East Skelly Street and South Thorp and the shooter was identified as 28-year-old Jesus Rodriguez-Lopez, also known as Chuy, of Hobbs. As officers continued investigating the shooting, a robbery was reported near the 800 block of South Leech Street in Hobbs. It was found that a man called Chuy, later confirmed to be Rodriguez-Lopez, had pointed a gun at a man in front of his home, and threatened him before taking his vehicle. Detectives were then able to locate the stolen vehicle with Rodriguez-Lopez, who was with a second suspect, later identified as 20-year-old Ezekiel Mendoza. Both suspects were arrested. It was later found that Rodriguez-Lopez had threatened another person with the firearm near the 1300 block of South Hannah Street, before the robbery, kidnapping them, and forcing the victim to drive to the house on South Leech Street, where the robbery took place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both subjects were arrested and charged with the following: Jesus Rodriguez-Lopez Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon causing Great Bodily Harm, a 3rd Degree Felony Shooting At or From a Motor Vehicle Causing Great Bodily Harm, a 2nd Degree Felony Armed Robbery, a 2nd Degree Felony Kidnapping, a 2nd Degree Felony Tampering With Evidence 4th Degree Felony Ezekiel Mendoza Conspiracy to wit, Robbery, a 3rd Degree Felony This is an active investigation. If you have any information regarding this incident or any other crimes, you can report it by calling dispatch at (575) 397-9265, or contact the Lea County Crime Stoppers at (575) 393-8005 (you may be eligible for a cash reward.) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. WYOMING COUNTY/RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WVNS) Two people were arrested in Raleigh County after a failed traffic stop that started in Wyoming County resulted in a car chase. According to a post on the Wyoming County Sheriffs Offices Facebook page, Chad Simmons and Kaitlyn Flaugher were arrested after a failed traffic stop in Wyoming County. Man arrested after shooting in Greenbrier County Members of the Wyoming County Sheriffs Office tried to hold a traffic stop of a blue Honda Ridgeline because of traffic violations in the Amigo area of Wyoming County at around 9:21 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The car, driven by Simmons who had an active Capias warrant for his arrest due to not appearing for sentencing in Raleigh County, did not stop and resulted in a high speed chase that that led to the Devils Fork area of Raleigh County before going onto narrow, unpaved dirt roads where the police car could not follow. Due to the police car being unable to go onto the unpaved dirt roads, members of the Wyoming County Sheriffs Office called for backup, and the Wyoming County Sheriffs Offices Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) was used to try and find Simmons and Flaugher, who was a passenger in the car. Simmons car was found quickly by those in the Wyoming County Sheriffs Offices UTV, where they then followed footprints where Simmons and Flaugher left the car. Both Simmons and Flaugher were found hiding among abandoned tires and debris around 400 yards from the abandoned car. The press release stated that when deputies tried to arrest Simmons and Flaugher, Simmons revealed that he had a gun in his possession. A struggle took place before Simmons and Flaugher were arrested. The press release also stated that the people involved are believed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Fayette County law enforcement officer sentenced for child sex trafficking and obstruction crimes After the arrests were made, deputies found backpacks near Flaugher and Simmons that contained: Around 188 grams of suspected Fentanyl Around 39 grams of suspected Methamphetamine Around 76 grams of suspected Heroin Numerous pills More than $18,000 in cash Handgun and ammunition The Wyoming County Sheriffs Office thanked the Raleigh County Sheriffs Office for their help with the 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 WVNS. FORT LAUDERDALE - Broward sheriff's deputies and a medical examiner descended on Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport overnight after bodies were found in an aircraft compartment on a JetBlue Airways plane. JetBlue issued a statement that said two people were found dead in an aircraft's landing gear compartment on Monday night. The bodies were found during a routine inspection after the plane landed. "The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft remain under investigation," JetBlue said. "This is a heartbreaking situation, and we are committed to working closely with authorities to support their efforts to understand how this occurred." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The carrier said the aircraft most recently operated as Flight 1801 from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. According to CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave, the Airbus A320 departed JFK on Monday night at 8:20 p.m. The night temperatures in New York were frigid. It arrived in Fort Lauderdale a few minutes late at 11:03 p.m. Its cruising altitude was approximately 38,000 feet for the two-hour and 43-minute flight, per flightradar24. The plane began its day in Kingston, Jamaica, according to the Transportation Security Administration. It then flew to JFK in New York, then to Salt Lake City, Utah, then back to JFK before ending up in Fort Lauderdale, according to Van Cleave, who said the plane overnighted in Kingston after arriving from JFK on Jan. 5th. It is protocol for pilots to do a walk around the plane before each flight. Part of the inspection is to check the wheel wells. It's possible that the people weren't immediately visible in this case, according to Van Cleave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Broward Sheriff's Office, the deceased are both male and beyond that their identities are unknown. The Jamaica Observer is reporting the two dead are believed to be Jamaican nationals, but CBS News Miami has not independently confirmed that information. On Tuesday afternoon, Kamina Smith, Jamaica's Foreign Minister took to social media and posted on X: "We have noted distressing reports in the media regarding the discovery of two deceased persons in the wheel well of an aircraft in Fort Lauderdale. While there is speculation regarding the nationalities of the persons found, our information to date is that this matter still under investigation by authorities, with the identities of the deceased individuals yet to be officially confirmed." Broward Sheriff crime and homicide detectives are working to learn how they ended up in the wheel compartment. The county's Medical Examiner's Office will perform autopsies to determine what caused their deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's clearly a security breach there. You wonder if it's too many passengers, it's the holidays, but that should never happen," said JetBlue passenger Steve Daoust. Van Cleave says the wheel well is not typically pressurized or heated and temperatures at altitude are well below freezing. People who choose to stow away like this almost always face death. A similar incident happened over the holidays in Hawaii. A body was found in the wheel well of a United Airlines flight from Chicago when the plane landed in Maui. There is no explanation for how the person got on the ramp. JetBlue Airways is headquartered in Long Island City in Queens, New York. It has a field office on the property of Orlando International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Wildfire surrounds Palisades Charter High School in Southern California as winds fuel flames MEMPHIS, Tenn. Two teens were arrested in connection to a gas station robbery in Covington, Tennessee on Monday morning. The Covington Police Department responded to the robbery just after 4 a.m. at the Mapco at 833 Highway 51. The cashier told police that two men dressed in all-black clothing pointed a gun at her and demanded cash from the register. Reports say one of the men stood guard at the door, while the other went behind the counter with a gun. He allegedly threatened to shoot the cashier if she pressed the panic button. Photos courtesy of the Covington Police Department Photos courtesy of the Covington Police Department Both suspects fled the scene on foot, empty-handed after the cashier could not open the cash drawer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video footage of the robbery was recovered by police. Reports say the suspects were also caught on surveillance camera walking in the Broadmeadow Place Apartments, just down the road from the Mapco, after the robbery. 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. At around 6:30 p.m. on Monday, the CPD found both suspects in an apartment at Broadmeadow Place. A 9mm pistol with an extended magazine, believed to have been used in the robbery, and clothing matching the items worn by the robbers were found in a closet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CPD says the pistol was equipped with multiple parts that are connected to crimes in at least two other states, one being an armed robbery. A serial number was also altered. The suspects were identified as 16- and 17-year-old teens one from Covington and the other from Ripley. They were both charged with Attempted Aggravated Robbery and are expected to appear in Tipton County Juvenile Court later this week. Additional charges relating to the pistol are possible, according to the CPD. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two employees have been killed after shots were fired at a mechanical engineering company in south-western Germany, police said on Tuesday. One other man was critically injured and the perpetrator, who is thought to have acted alone, is on the run. A masked person entered the company's premises in the town of Bad Friedrichshall, north of Stuttgart, in the early evening and then fired the shots at the men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A manhunt is in full swing," police said. A major operation is under way but there is currently no danger to the public, local police said on X. A police helicopter has been deployed. Other employees were on site during the crime. They were taken out of the building and questioned by officers, said a police spokeswoman. She did not provide any information on the number of employees present during the shooting. Around 20,000 people live in Bad Friedrichshall, located in the prosperous state of Baden-Wurttemberg. Bad Friedrichshall's mayor Timo Frey told dpa he was shocked by the news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the family-owned company, which makes gears, is well-known in the area and is a major employer with a staff of around 400. Shooting incidents are uncommon in the European Union's most populous nation. The U.S. government has determined that genocide has been committed by members of the RSF paramilitary force and its allied militias in Sudan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday. The "Rapid Support Forces" and its allies are one side in a largely hidden but vicious civil war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives in less than two years. In a statement announcing the U.S. determination that genocide was committed and that new sanctions were being imposed as a result Blinken called it a "conflict of unmitigated brutality that has resulted in the world's largest humanitarian catastrophe." Blinken announced sanctions against RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, also known as Hemedti, as well as seven RSF-linked companies based in the United Arab Emirates and an individual accused of helping the RSF procure weapons. As part of the sanctions, Hemedti and his family were barred from entering the United States. Leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, widely known as Hemedti, is seen in a 2019 file image in Khartoum, Sudan. / Credit: Reuters The war has left "638,000 Sudanese experiencing the worst famine in Sudan's recent history, over 30 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, and tens of thousands dead," Blinken said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The RSF and RSF-aligned militias have continued to direct attacks against civilians. The RSF and allied militias have systematically murdered men and boys even infants on an ethnic basis, and deliberately targeted women and girls from certain ethnic groups for rape and other forms of brutal sexual violence," Blinken said. "Those same militias have targeted fleeing civilians, murdering innocent people escaping conflict, and prevented remaining civilians from accessing lifesaving supplies." In May 2024, the Human Rights Watch organization said the RSF and its allies could have been guilty of genocide against non-Arab ethnic communities over a specific series of attacks in the western region of Darfur. The RSF has been widely accused of ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity and war crimes since the war broke out. The International Criminal Court has been investigating ethnic-based killings in Darfur and has said it has "grounds to believe" that both the paramilitaries and the Sudanese army have committed unspecified "Rome Statute crimes," which include war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. The ICC's investigation continues. Why is there a civil war in Sudan? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fighting broke out in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF in April 2023 after months of tension between the two top generals who had been running the country. The former allies in charge of the SAF and the RSF had been negotiating to fully integrate the RSF into the army before the formation of a new transitional government. Those negotiations broke down and the two sides went to war. After war broke out, the U.S. government, along with international partners, unsuccessfully tried to broker a peace agreement. / Credit: Yasin Demirci/Anadolu/Getty Journalists and aid officials have largely been blocked from traveling to the country to report on the conflict first-hand, but independent researchers say the number of deaths from the war has been vastly unreported. According to a study published in November by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, an estimated 61,000 people were killed in Khartoum State alone, home to the capital city of the same name, between April 2023 and June 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study found that more than 90% of those deaths went unrecorded, but the estimated toll was considerably higher than previously believed. "Our findings reveal the severe and largely invisible impact of the war on Sudanese lives, especially of preventable disease and starvation, said the report's lead author Dr. Maysoon Dahab, adding that "the overwhelming level of killings" in the central Kordofan and western Darfur regions "indicate wars within a war." An aerial view of Goz al-Haj Camp, where civilians fleeing the civil war in Sudan complain of mistreatment by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), north of Khartoum, Sudan, Dec. 25, 2024. / Credit: Osman Bakir/Anadolu/Getty "Today's action is part of our continued efforts to promote accountability for all warring parties whose actions fuel this conflict," Blinken said Tuesday. "The United States does not support either side of this war." What is genocide? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United Nations adopted the Genocide Convention in 1948 after the Holocaust committed by Nazi Germany. In it, genocide is defined as any one of a series of acts, "committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group." Those acts include: Killing members of the group.Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group.Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group.Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group. Trump says he plans to change Gulf of Mexico's name to "Gulf of America" Justin Trudeau announces he'll resign as prime minister of Canada Jimmy Carter's casket arriving at U.S. Navy Memorial 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: Visualization of protein clumps associated with Huntington's disease, produced by combining simulations and several complementary types of experiments. Credit: Markus Miettinen, UiB/CBU. University of Bergen researcher Markus Miettinen is among the first scientists to provide a detailed description of protein clumps associated with Huntington's disease. The findings, which could pave the way for new diagnostic tools and treatments, were recently presented in an article in Nature Communications. "There is hope that our research can lead to treatments for Huntington's disease. Understanding the structure of the protein clumps is a crucial piece of the puzzle in understanding how these proteins can cause disease. Our new molecular findings are essential for further developing diagnostic tools and imaging techniques to detect and monitor disease proteins in patients," says chemist Markus Miettinen from the University of Bergen, Norway and the Computational Biology Unit. Together with an international team of researchersincluding Mahdi Bagherpoor Helabad from the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Irina Matlahov, Greeshma Jain, and Patrick C. A. van der Wel from the University of Groningen, Raj Kumar and Markus Weingarth from the University of Utrecht, and Jan O. Daldrop from Freie Universitat Berlinhe has combined advanced computer simulations and experimental methods to achieve these groundbreaking results. Revealing protein clumps with a pioneering method Huntington's disease is a fatal disease caused by an inherited mutation that makes a protein form unnatural clumps. These protein clumps play a role in disease development, but until now, we have lacked a good understanding of what they look like at atomic level. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55062-8 By combining various computer- and experiment-based approaches, the researchers have now managed to visualize the first detailed picture of these disease-related clumps. The methods used are an exciting example of the interdisciplinary approach that represents the future of structural biologyand pave the way for the development of diagnostic tools and treatments that are urgently needed. "We use advanced computer simulations to mimic the behavior of these molecules as realistically as possible. Our work bridges the gap between simulations and experiments, providing insights into data that are otherwise difficult to interpret. Beyond the new insights into Huntington's disease, we have developed tools that make molecular simulations more accessible to researchers worldwide," says Miettinen. This type of protein clumping is not only known in connection with Huntington's disease but also in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases. The structure of the clumps in Huntington's disease is remarkably different from other disease proteins, opening up several new scientific questions about their properties and formation mechanisms. More information: Mahdi Bagherpoor Helabad et al, Integrative determination of atomic structure of mutant huntingtin exon 1 fibrils implicated in Huntington disease, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55062-8 Journal information: Nature Communications FORT MOORE, Ga. (WRBL) Georgia U.S. Army post Fort Moore is preparing for its role in the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter. Plans for Carters funeral have been under discussion for more than a decade. Following Carters death at the age of 100 on Dec. 29, plans for what is known on-post at Fort Moore as Operation Distinguished Gentleman were put into motion. Its been just all about the attention to detail, making sure everythings absolutely perfect as it needs to be, said 1st Lt. Bruce Hudson of the 10th Marine Regiment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hudson is part of a roughly 15-person team called in from Camp Lejeune, N.C., to take part in the on-post funeral proceedings Jan. 9. The Marines will be using Howitzers for a 21-gun salute honoring Carter, a former naval officer. JIMMY CARTER: Historic Georgia theater shares memories of longtime friend of the arts Members of the team arrived at Fort Moore on Jan. 5, although they have spent the last week in and out of rehearsals and the past 24 hours doing more rehearsals alongside maintenance on the Howitzers ahead of the ceremony. For one Marine on the team, being a part of the proceedings hits particularly close to home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its really important to me because Im [from] here, so its kind of like doing something special, Lance Cpl. Devonta Stanley of Dublin, Ga., said. Stanley, who is in his third year with the Marines, added, Its really important for the [Carter] family and were prepared to do it correctly. Marines prepare Howitzers for Thursdays funeral proceedings at Fort Moore. (Olivia Yepez) A team of about 15 Marines from Camp Lejeune, N.C., was brought in to do a 21-gun salute in honor of Carter, a former naval officer. (Olivia Yepez) Members of the 316 Cavalry Brigade are on Task Force Georgia, working to support funeral proceedings. (Olivia Yepez) Task Force Georgia is focused on helping teams from Washington make proceedings go as smoothly as possible. (Olivia Yepez) Behind the scenes, the 316th Cavalry Brigade is hard at work providing support for the funeral as part of Fort Moores Task Force Georgia. The task forces goal is to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible for the teams conducting the state funeral from Washington, D.C. Were synchronizing all of Fort Moores efforts to make sure that if theres any problems or any support required from Georgia, were there to provide it, explained Col. Justin Harper, commander of Task Force Georgia and the 316th Cavalry Brigade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jimmy Carters impact on healthcare in rural Georgia and beyond On Thursday, the years of planning and careful preparation will come to an end. After leaving Fort Moore, Carters motorcade will head to his hometown of Plains, Ga., where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife, Rosalynn. The honor of being part of the arrangements is not lost on those supporting the effort at Fort Moore. Its a once in a lifetime opportunity to honor a former president, Harper said. He added, Thats important, for us to all really to be part of American history in a way that few others will get a chance to do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former President Jimmy Carter lies in DC before returning home to Plains on Thursday Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. BOSTON (WWLP) The United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts is resigning his post. Joshua S. Levy tendered his resignation on Monday to U. S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, effective Friday, January 17, 2025. In a news release issued by Levys office, no reason was given for why he is leaving. Healey orders inspection of all shelters Levy has served twice at the U. S. Department of Justice (DOJ). In 1997 he worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Criminal Divisions Economic Crimes Unit. Levy left the DOJ in 2004 to become a partner at Ropes & Gray. Immediately before becoming the Acting U.S. Attorney, in May 2023, Levy served as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney from January 2022 through May 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was named U.S. Attorney by AG Garland in November 2024. As U.S. Attorney, he served on two subcommittees of the Attorney Generals Advisory Committee White Collar Crime, and Terrorism & National Security and was a member of the Human Trafficking Work Group. U.S. Attorney Levy also served as the Northeastern U.S. representative for the U.S. Attorney community on the Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee. Serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts has truly been the highlight of my career, said U.S. Attorney Levy. Every day over the past three years, I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and extraordinary skill of the federal prosecutors, support staff, and law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law, keep our communities safe and protect civil rights. My core touchstones as the leader of this office have been to serve with the highest integrity and a commitment to pursue justice in every case by following the facts and the law, without fear or favor. Under his leadership the department oversaw several high-profile cases including the $650 million resolution of criminal and civil charges against McKinsey & Company for their illegal conduct in support of Purdue Pharmas marketing of opioids, charges against two men for their alleged involvement in a scheme to procure sensitive drone technology to Iran, Jack Teixeira was sentenced to 15 years in prison for leaking highly classified documents, seven former employees of eBay were sentenced for cyberstalking a Massachusetts couple, and the $574 million-dollar criminal and civil enforcement action against Raytheon for overcharging government contracts. 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 global trend of digital fragmentation seems unstoppable. Barring intervention by the Supreme Court, a law banning TikTok in the U.S. will go into effect later this month, despite investing billions in implementing U.S. data-localization requirements. Chinas own AI regulations prevented the first generation of large language model chatbots from reaching the country. And while the European Unions Digital Markets Act, Digital Services Acts and AI Act have created regulatory clarity, they may also limit foreign firms capacity to do digital business in the EU. While tech powers like the U.S. and China push for ever more digital fragmentation, the rest of the world often bears the costs, with regulatory, economic, technological and security implications. With digital fragmentation showing no signs of slowing down, various countries are now adopting a range of ad hoc approaches to navigate the challenges and risks it presents. Yet, the most effective strategy is likely to be one of pragmatic resilience, characterized by adopting non-antagonistic narratives, emphasizing short-term results and pursuing long-term regulatory ambitions. What Is Digital Fragmentation? Digital fragmentation is often discussed from the perspective of who is doing the fragmenting. One view focuses on corporate actors who, by creating closed digital ecosystems, make it prohibitively expensive for consumers to migrate across digital ecosystems. This monopolizing strategy reinforces and expands companies market advantages but often leads to higher prices and less choice for consumers. It also decreases the interoperability of systems and applications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter. Another view focuses on fragmentation related to national jurisdictions, generally emphasizing competition among the U.S., China andalbeit to a lesser extentEurope. In this view, governments are the main actors, using financial resources, regulatory policies and diplomatic persuasion to shape the regulatory regimes and standards governing digital technologies in line with national strategic priorities. Examples here include government attempts to define who controls, produces and has access to data and cutting-edge technologies, as in discussions of 5G telecom networks, semiconductor production and data-localization laws around the world. At the same time, governments are increasingly seeking to rein in corporate-led fragmentation and its inhibiting effects on market competition. This is evident in numerous recent legal filings and decisions. For example, the U.S. Department of Justice announced in October 2024 that it was considering measures to break up Googles internet search monopoly, and a U.S. federal court ruling in the same month allowed rivals to temporarily sell their apps in Googles Play Store as a penalty for Google having violated antitrust laws. Similarly, the European Commission has launched numerous investigations and in some cases already issued rulings under the scope of its Digital Markets Act. Reining in government-led fragmentation is more difficult. This is partly because the private-sector tech giants in both the U.S. and China are themselves helping advance government-led fragmentation. In fact, the two digital superpowers, building on these deepening partnerships with their digital sectors, represent the technopoles of todays New Cold War. They are driving global digital fragmentation in three ways. How Technopoles Advance Digital Fragmentation One way technopoles foster fragmentation is by investing in their own technological progress. Those investments are significant. The U.S. governments 2024 State of U.S. Science & Engineering Report shows that the U.S. and China collectively invested $1.4 trillion at purchasing power parity in research and development in 2021, more than 3 times as much as the next three big spendersJapan, Germany and South Koreacombined. Government contributions constituted at least 20 percent of these totals in both technopoles, underlining the strategic importance accorded to such advances by the U.S. and Chinese governments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theoretically, technopole expenditures could mediate rather than enhance fragmentation by pooling substantial financial, technological and diplomatic resources as well as complementary strengths to pursue shared goals such as minimizing the digital divide and promoting AI governance. In practice, the reverse appears to be happening. Amid fears about manufacturing and supply chain vulnerabilities, both the U.S. and China depict tech investments as a means of boosting their own self-reliance and pursuing competitive gains. Related policies limiting data sharing and migration have undercut research collaboration, cementing fragmentation in both the knowledge and infrastructure realms. As such, technopole investments are widening the gap between technopoles and others, while also underscoring the differences, rather than similarities, in U.S. and Chinese approaches to technology, making great power cooperation more difficult. A second strategy that is a central tenet of both U.S. and Chinese tech policies involves blocking rivals access to cutting-edge technologies and technology-relevant resources. For example, since October 2018, the United States has leveraged its influence over intellectual property in chip-makingas well as its security partnershipsto pressure governments in Germany, the Netherlands, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan to restrict Chinese firms access to cutting-edge semiconductors and chipmaking equipment. Likewise, in August 2023, China began requiring export licenses for gallium and germanium, rare earth metals on which much of the world depends for high-technology manufacturing and whose mining and refining is dominated by China. And in December, it banned the export to the U.S. of both metals and several other tech-relevant materials. Rep. Troy Nehls speaks at a demonstration at the Capitol calling for the banning of TikTok, in Washington, March 23, 2023 (AP photo by J. Scott Applewhite). These and other blocking policies are fragmenting global supply chains and markets as technopoles work together with like-minded economies to ensure their own supply chain resilience and reinforce economic chokepoints to protect state resources. Seth Schindler and his co-authors have argued the goal is to create splintered stacks of digital infrastructure that forc[e] countries and firms to choose between American and Chinese stacks. While leading tech platforms continue to resist such pressures, smaller platforms have already succumbed. Finally, technopoles are facilitating digital fragmentation through their involvement in other countries digital initiatives and infrastructure policies, particularly in key allied states, such as Japan, South Korea and Germany for the United States. These digital interventions extend to the Global South as well. While these less powerful states may be wary about Chinas Digital Silk Road investments or U.S. investments via the G7s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, the opportunities are often too attractive to pass up given the high costs of developing and building digital infrastructures. Once accepted, these investments can end up locking partner states into gilded digital cages that are easy to enter but harder to leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This carrot-and-stick approach to tech diplomacy, characterized by financial incentives and access to services and infrastructures on one hand and weaponizing interdependence on the other, creates new opportunities for dominant U.S. and Chinese firms to access and benefit from information, data, talent and markets in the Global South. It also gives them influence over the regulatory and normative initiatives that accompany technological integration in partner countries. This is likely to lead to more digital fragmentation, not less. The Costs of Digital Fragmentation In such a world, according to the International Monetary Fund, most countries lose, and losses scale up with the degree of fragmentation. A 2017 survey of private-sector information and tech executives indicated that 86 percent of global respondents thought their IT strategies and systems were vulnerable to growing digital fragmentation, and over 90 percent expected their IT costs to rise as a result. Others worried about the impact on IT recruitment and their businesses physical and digital infrastructures. Eight years later, these risks have multiplied. A report from Digital Policy Alert and Global Trade Alert in 2022 noted that a fragmented internet and global digital economy denies users choice, diminishes the incentives for innovation, exacerbates trade tensions between governments, and increases the risk of numerous crises. The IMF estimated that technological and trade decouplingthe most extreme form of fragmentationcould cost countries between 8 percent and 12 percent of their GDP. Additional risks include creating new opportunities for cybercriminals, slowing progress toward global AI regulation and negatively affecting human rights. Digital fragmentation is especially costly for the Global South. For instance, data-localization measures that concentrate control over data in digitally powerful countries increase the costs of doing business in other countries by complicating digital payments, impeding access to machine-learning technologies, decreasing the efficiency of cloud infrastructures and limiting real-time access to information about cybersecurity threats. This can be painful for Global South businesses, which already face higher costs than their counterparts in high-income economies. Digital fragmentation may also increase economic inequality within and among countries and reinforce regional tensions, hindering mutually beneficial cooperation. The Limits of Existing Approaches Given technopoles commitment to advancing digital fragmentation and their dominance over global digital infrastructures and platforms, the costs of digital fragmentation will only grow in the coming years. In this context, what strategies can the rest of the world pursue to minimize their vulnerability, maintain a degree of policy flexibility and achieve their goals? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one strategy, called omni-alignment, non-technopoles engage inand intermittently re-evaluatecollaboration with the U.S. and China in a variety of areas. This strategy is characterized by non-technopoles refusal to bow to pressure to choose one side or the otherthat is, a refusal to be complicit in further fragmenting the digital world. Talk of de-risking rather than decoupling from Chinaas seen in the EU and India, for instancecan be viewed as an example of omni-alignment, since it rejects the dominant U.S. narrative about the risks of digital engagement with China while also heeding the warnings in that narrative. Maintaining cooperation is unavoidable in todays digital economy and should be pursued with technopoles and non-technopoles alike. How it is framed matters, though. Omni-alignment can increase non-technopoles policy flexibility. But it does little to minimize vulnerability, particularly in the Global South where many countries continue to rely on Chinese digital infrastructures and U.S. digital platforms. Moreover, a strategy organized around a firm refusal to comply with technopoles demands runs the risk of exacerbating technopoles fears about their global position, leading them to pursue policies that will deepen digital fragmentation even further. Others have identified a strategy of minilateralism to slow the pace of fragmentation and protect non-technopoles interests. This strategy is characterized by collaborations among groups of tech middle powers, with partnerships often bridging the Global North and the Global South. As in omni-alignment, such collaborations are generally informal and subject to change as circumstances evolve, meaning they offer a great deal of policy flexibility. The diversification of partnerships and activities beyond collaboration with technopoles should also minimize the costs of disruptive global developments, thereby decreasing vulnerability. Yet to truly address non-technopole worries about vulnerability via minilateralism, non-technopoles must prioritize cooperation with other non-technopoles. But doing so is unlikely to erode the advantages that enable technopoles to intervene in other countries digital initiatives, and may even encourage more intervention, as technopoles fear economic and informational losses arising from their exclusion. As such, it minimizes the costs of being vulnerable without addressing the source of vulnerability. In addition, it may be difficult to isolate such partnerships from technopoles own initiatives as their government and business-led leadership activities expand in scope. Toward Pragmatic Resilience In this context, cultivating a strategy of pragmatic resilience seems the best way forward. Such a strategy seeks to chart a course toward the goals of liberal interdependence, including cooperation, mutual gains and non-aggression, while acknowledging the realistic constraints of weaponized interdependence on policy flexibility and national autonomy as well as the emphasis it places on minimizing vulnerability and increasing security. Such a strategy comprises two elements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First, non-technopoles should try to get results without antagonizing technopoles. Maintaining cooperation is unavoidable in todays digital economy and should be pursued with technopoles and non-technopoles alike. How it is framed matters, though. When collaborating with technopoles, non-technopoles should be explicit that their priority is to achieve their own strategic goals; that they are willing to work with all potential partners that can help them do so; and that working with one technopole does not preclude working with another. Emphasizing results is crucial in cooperation that excludes technopoles as well. This is particularly true when Global South digital innovations have the potential to disrupt the interests of technopoles or the corporations based in them, as has been alleged with regard to Indias efforts to extend the reach of its Unified Payments Interface worldwide. Second, non-technopoles should embrace flexibility in cooperation, from regulatory approaches to industrial policy, while also pushing for rules with teeth. The need for policy flexibility will not abate in the coming years, so minilateral cooperation is likely to remain a dominant feature of the digital world. But the history of economic cooperation teaches us that this flexible collaboration can not only co-exist with binding global or regional rules and frameworks for digital trade, but can even benefit from it. Achieving such rules is most likely in areas where mutual benefits are visible and quickly attainable. Digital economy partnership agreements, which promote digital trade and interoperability while also providing a forum for dialogue over digital issues, appear promising in this respect and may also offer non-technopoles opportunities to shape regulations. Examples of regulations achieved in 2024 include the inclusion of the Global Digital Compact as a crucial output of the United Nations 2024 Summit of the Future; U.S.- and Chinese-led resolutions related to AI at the U.N.; and moves by the EU and African Union to create frameworks governing a variety of digital technologies and infrastructures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In contrast, negotiations that target fragmentation directly, such as the Internet Governance Forums 2022 Policy Network on Internet Fragmentation and discussions in 2023 in the International Telecommunication Unions Council Working Group on the Internet to prevent the fragmentation of the Internet, might achieve results only in the long run. And in the areas where digital fragmentation is likely to extract the highest costs, such as dual-use technologies, new generations of encryptionsincluding quantum-based applicationsand military AI, enforceable rules will remain the exception. This was evident at the October 2024 REAIM summit on regulating the use of AI in the military, which despite producing only legally nonbinding declarative documents for the second year in a row only secured one technopoles signature. Together, these elements can allow non-technopoles to shape tech narratives and policies that balance short-term benefits with a vision for long-term stability. While this approach may not reverse digital fragmentation, it can help countries navigate it by emphasizing the visible, positive outcomes they hope to achieve from less fragmentation. These successes can then serve as welcome reminders that the potential for good that inspired the internets original architects nearly 40 years ago should remain a central ambition in todays digitally fragmented world. Laura Mahrenbach is an adjunct professor at the School of Social Sciences and Technology at the Technical University of Munich and a senior adviser at Cascade Advisory. She has published and spoken extensively on rising powers, the political implications of technology and global governance, most recently at Indias Raisina Dialogue, at the 12th Sino-German Forum at Tonji University and as the author of Governing Artificial Intelligence (Global Policy, 2023). Maximilian Mayer is junior professor of international relations and global politics of technology at the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS), University of Bonn. He edited Rethinking the Silk-Road: Chinas Belt and Road Initiative and Emerging Eurasian Relations (Palgrave, 2018); is co-editor of the Routledge Handbook on Global China (Routledge 2024); and is currently leading the research group on Infrastructures of Chinas Modernity and Their Global Constitutive Effects, funded by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia. The post U.S.-China Digital Fragmentation Is Putting the World in a Bind appeared first on World Politics Review. All U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services offices, including the Fresno Field Office on P Street in downtown and the application support center, will be closed Thursday for the National Day of Mourning of former President Jimmy Carter. According to the USCIS, all naturalization ceremonies, interviews, and appointments set for Thursday will be rescheduled. Those affected by the closure this week will be notified by USCIS. The Fresno Field Office did not have a naturalization ceremony scheduled for Thursday. All applicants who have biometric appointments scheduled for Thursday will receive a new appointment notice within three weeks. Applicants can also reschedule their appointment using the biometric services appointment rescheduling tool on their USCIS online account before their scheduled appointment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Applicants can also view the status of their appointment on the USCIS My Appointment page. President Joe Biden declared Jan. 9 a National Day of Mourning to remember the life and legacy of the 39th president of the United States who died on Dec. 29. The flag of the United States has been displayed at half-staff at federal buildings. Biden issued an executive order for the closing of executive departments and agencies of the federal government on Thursday. The field office, located at 744 P Street, Suite 120 in downtown, serves Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Stanislaus and Tulare counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fresno field office handles scheduled interviews for non-asylum cases like green cards and other applications and naturalization ceremonies. USCIS field offices do not allow walk-ins. According to Claire Nicholson, a USCIS public affairs officer, more than 10,000 naturalization ceremonies are held annually in 88 field offices across the country. Nicholson said that in fiscal year 2022, the U.S. welcomed 974,000 new U.S. citizens, the largest number in nearly 15 years. Those from Mexico represented 13.3% of those naturalized nationally, although they tend to be about half of the new U.S. citizens in the Fresno area. They are followed by India (6.8%), the Philippines (5.5%), Cuba (4.8%) and the Dominican Republic (3.6%). The Fresno office naturalized 14,138 applicants in 2022. The USCIS Contact Center live assistance will also be closed on Thursday. USCIS online tools and resources will remain available. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The U.S. Department of Education has announced that its office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) has settled with Baker College after misrepresenting graduates job placement rates and potential salaries. The Department reports in a news release that Baker College, with locations in Jackson and Owosso, was fined $2.5 million due to violating the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) and related regulations. Baker was proven to have falsely claimed that its graduates had significantly higher job placement rates and salaries than they did after an FSA investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation found that Baker published career outcomes rates on its websites that were both inaccurate and misleading. While these websites gave the impression that all of Bakers graduates were included in the Career Outcomes Rates, they did not disclose how many students responded to the survey. Baker also advertised that it had an overall career outcomes rate of about 91% and that its automotive program had a rate of nearly 96%, without defining what a career outcome meant. These figures made it seem that nearly all graduates earned employment in paid positions. FSA reports that its investigation also found that a list of employers who claimed to have hired Baker graduates was false. The investigation found that 14 of more than 100 listed had hired those individuals before they enrolled at Baker. Baker was found to have misrepresented graduate earnings as well. They published a median yearly income and salary for executives on most of its program pages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National data from the U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics was used for its advertised incomes, rather than data from its own graduates. This settlement demonstrates the Departments ongoing commitment to enforcing higher education laws and regulations and protecting students and taxpayers, said the U.S. Department of Education in a news release sent to 6 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 WLNS 6 News. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) It was not the trip one man driving through Albuquerque expected: his U-Haul full of priceless items from one of his favorite bands was stolen. Story continues below Ryan Jonik said hes out more than $50,000 from the items stolen, not to mention the sentimental value. He is thankful though that some of his stuff was recovered. I was like, this is gone. Probably never going to see it, said Jonik. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jonik was moving his familys belongings from Los Angeles to their new home in Charleston, South Carolina over the weekend. When he stopped in Albuquerque to get some sleep, he woke up to find his U-Haul and SUV behind it taken from the parking lot of his Uptown hotel. It was in a well-lit area. Right by the entrance. I wasnt really thinking anything of it. I went to bed. I woke up around 2:30 and I was like, Should I go check on the truck. I was like, No everything is going to be fine. On Sunday morning, he woke up to the U-Haul gone and SUV gone. Luckily, some items had AirTags and the vehicle had a GPS. Police were able to locate his vehicle, the U-Haul and some of his belongings. His belongings were thrown in a pile in an empty lot in Albuquerque but some of it was damaged and items were missing. Im picking up stuff in the dark like my records. Ive been collecting records since I was 5. My record collection is just scattered around. We have a 4-month-old, we have a rocker, its broken. Its just very violating. Jonik is also a big-time Nine Inch Nails fan and said hes been archiving concerts and collecting memorabilia for years from the band. Some of that stuff was stolen. Theres some prints that are irreplaceable. Ive met the band once and they signed it for me. So thats like a one-of-a-kind thing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The equipment he used to transfer concerts that were recorded on cassettes to digital is also gone. Even though he said he feels violated, he is also grateful. You know, my wife and I are very positive people, and we are just trying to look at it like, Hey were healthy, our four-month-old is healthy. Our dog is healthy. Some of this stuff is irreplaceable and that stings but its like well figure it out, said Jonik. Jonik asked the community to be on the lookout in pawn shops for Nine Inch Nails memorabilia. He is asking anyone who may know anything to contact him or police. His email is info@ninlive.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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Update The U.S. Senate voted Friday to require only a simple majority to pass the Laken Riley Act, legislation targeting undocumented immigrants for deportation if they are charged with nonviolent crimes such as shoplifting, clearing the last major hurdle the bill faced to get through Congress. With a Republican majority in the Senate, and only 51 votes necessary to pass the bill, it is now on a path to passage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ten Senate Democrats voted alongside Republicans in a 61-35 vote to enact cloture on the bill, clearing the 60-vote threshold needed to move the bill forward. The Senate is set to consider the Laken Riley Act on Monday following President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration. The Senate vote came after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill on a 264-159 vote, with 48 Democrats joining Republicans including Texas Democratic Reps. Henry Cuellar of Laredo and Vicente Gonzalez of McAllen. Original article, Jan. 7 The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation on Tuesday targeting undocumented immigrants for deportation if theyre charged with nonviolent crimes such as shoplifting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Laken Riley Act passed on a 264-159 vote, with 48 Democrats joining Republicans including Texas Democratic Reps. Henry Cuellar of Laredo and Vicente Gonzalez of McAllen. The proposed law now goes to the Senate on Friday, where Republicans hold the majority. Republicans control 53 seats and need seven Senate Democrats to vote in favor for the bill to pass. The bill is named after Laken Riley, a 22-year-old Augusta University nursing student in Georgia who was killed in February 2024 by Jose Antonio Ibarra, a 26-year-old Venezuelan man who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border through El Paso in 2022. Months before the killing, Ibarra was arrested on a shoplifting charge at a Georgia Walmart but was later released. Ibarra was convicted in Rileys killing and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The death of Laken Riley was a senseless and preventable tragedy, and now that her murderer is behind bars, we owe it to Laken to do everything we can to ensure any migrant who enters the country illegally and commits a crime is never given the opportunity to harm innocent Americans, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said in a statement. Even though studies show that recent immigrants in the United States commit crimes at a lower rate than U.S.-born citizens, Rileys murder became a rallying cry for conservative lawmakers to adopt stricter immigration laws. According to an analysis by Alex Nowrasteh the vice president for economic and social policy studies at the libertarian think tank Cato Institute undocumented immigrants in Georgia are incarcerated for homicide at a rate of 61 per 100,000 people, compared to 90 per 100,000 for legal immigrants and U.S. citizens. The numbers indicate that illegal immigrants are not a disproportionate criminal threat, they do not increase crime rates, and extra enforcement of normal immigration laws will not lower crime rates, Nowrasteh wrote in his analysis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, when an identical bill was introduced in the House, 37 Democrats voted in favor of the bill, including three Texas Democrats. The jump in support from Democrats this year signifies some Democrats willingness to support President-elect Donald Trumps immigration agenda which includes mass deportations of the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. Currently, any immigrant including legal U.S. permanent residents who commits serious or violent crimes such as aggravated felonies, drug possession or drunk driving can be arrested and eventually deported. However, the current proposal looks to widen the deportation pipeline by requiring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to detain undocumented immigrants accused of less serious crimes such as burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. The proposal also allows state attorneys general to sue the federal government if federal authorities release an immigrant who entered the U.S. illegally and later goes on to commit other crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A majority of Democrats and immigrant rights groups criticized the bill, saying that it is an anti-immigrant proposal disguised as a public safety measure. This is political gamesmanship at its worst, planting a trap for lawmakers by exploiting a tragedy, said Kerri Talbot, co-executive director of the Immigration Hub, a national organization that advocates for fair immigration policies. This bill weaponizes the justice system to incarcerate immigrants for minor infractions, empowers extremists to rewrite immigration policy, and tears apart families who have long called this country home. The U.K. government of Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said on Tuesday that it will make creating sexually explicit deepfake images a criminal offense as it cracks down on vile online abuse. The proliferation of these hyper-realistic images has grown at an alarming rate, causing devastating harm to victims, particularly women and girls who are often the target, it highlighted. To tackle this, the government will introduce a new offense meaning perpetrators could be charged for both creating and sharing these images, not only marking a crackdown on this abhorrent behavior but making it clear there is no excuse for creating a sexually explicit deepfake of someone without their consent. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new sexually explicit deepfakes offenses, which will be included in the governments Crime and Policing Bill, will apply to images, a word that in British law not only covers photos but also videos or films, of adults because existing law already covers this behavior where the image is of a child, under the age of 18. The U.K. government also unveiled plans to update existing law so that perpetrators will face up to two years behind bars under new offenses for taking an intimate image without consent and installing equipment to enable these offenses. Said U.K. Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones: It is unacceptable that one in three women have been victims of online abuse. This demeaning and disgusting form of chauvinism must not become normalized. Starmers government has made technological change a focus as of late, recently also launching a consultation on plans to give certainty to the creative industries and AI developers on how copyright material can be used to train AI models. Running until Feb. 25, its goal is helping to drive growth across both sectors by ensuring protection and payment for rights holders and supporting AI developers to innovate responsibly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davies-Jones said that the proposed updates will give law enforcement a holistic package of offenses to effectively tackle non-consensual intimate image abuse. For example, while it is already an offense to share or threaten to share an intimate image without consent, it is only an offense to take an image without consent in certain circumstances, such as upskirting. Under the new offenses, anyone who takes an intimate image without consent faces up to two years custody. Those who install equipment so that they, or someone else, can take intimate images without consent also face up to two years behind bars. Concluded U.K. Technology Minister Maggie Jones: The rise of intimate image abuse is a horrifying trend that exploits victims and perpetuates a toxic online culture. These acts are not just cowardly, they are deeply damaging, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately targeted. With these new measures, were sending an unequivocal message: creating or sharing these vile images is not only unacceptable but criminal. Tech companies need to step up too platforms hosting this content will face tougher scrutiny and significant penalties. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A Louisiana patient hospitalized in critical condition with severe bird flu has died, the state health department said Monday, marking the first U.S. death due to the virus. The patient was older than 65 years and was reported to have underlying medical conditions. The patient contracted H5N1 after exposure to a combination of a noncommercial backyard flock and wild birds. While the public health risk for the public remains low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows or have recreational exposure to them are at higher risk, officials said. There is no evidence the virus is spreading from person to person, and the agency said the patient remains the only human case of H5N1 in Louisiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Louisiana Department of Health did not provide details about when the patient died or what treatment the person received, due to confidentiality. The Department expresses its deepest condolences to the patients family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one. Due to patient confidentiality and respect for the family, this will be the final update about the patient, the agency said in a statement. The U.S. has recorded at least 66 human cases of H5N1. All except for the one in Louisiana were mild, with respiratory symptoms or pink eye. Most of the cases were caused by exposure to infected cattle, while others were found in people working at poultry farms and culling operations. CDC officials have said cases of severe H5N1 illness and deaths are not unexpected. The current outbreak was first detected in dairy cattle in March, and it has since spread to more than 900 herds across 16 states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2024, CDC began reporting additional, sporadic human cases in people who had exposure to infected dairy cows. The news of the patients death comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last month the virus in the Louisiana patient carried mutations to help it become more transmissible. The virus and mutations in that patient were similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada. Both patients carried a version of the virus that is circulating in wild birds, distinct from the one causing the outbreak in dairy cattle. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 he signed a sweeping executive order in July 2021 intended to crack down on anticompetitive business practices, President Joe Biden declared that "capitalism without competition isn't capitalism, it's exploitation." That would become something of a catchphrase for Biden's presidencyand a mission statement for his appointees. Biden's Justice Department blocked the merger of JetBlue and Spirit Airlines on the grounds that consumers would be harmed by the consolidation of the budget airline industry. At the Federal Trade Commission, Biden-appointed Commissioner Lina Khan launched a crusade against all sorts of mergers and acquisitions. "Capitalism without competition isn't capitalism," Biden reminded everyone as he announced plans to goose competition in the meat processing industry in 2022. As he heads for the exit, however, one of Biden's final executive actions lays the groundwork for a massive consolidation of the American steel industry. In blocking U.S. Steel's acquisition by Nippon Steel, Biden apparently tossed his concerns about competition and consolidation out the window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first blush, that might seem counterintuitive. How can preventing a merger lead to greater consolidation? The answer lies in the third party that played a major role in blowing up the U.S Steel/Nippon Steel deal: Cleveland-Cliffs, the Ohio-based steelmaker that lost to Nippon in the bidding war to buy U.S. Steel. It is widely assumed that Cleveland-Cliffs will be able to purchase U.S. Steel (probably at a steep discount) if the deal with Nippon does not go through, and that likely explains why Cleveland-Cliffs has lobbied so hard to tank the deal. The company pulled together an unconventional alliance of politically connected allies, including labor unions and environmental groups, to bolster its own significant lobbying efforts. If Cleveland-Cliffs ends up buying U.S. Steel, it will enjoy a near-monopoly on a variety of steel products produced in America. Combine that with the fact that tariffs and other trade barriers make it more expensive to import steel, and it means steel-consuming industries will have few options for supplying their needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is, of course, exactly what Cleveland-Cliff is counting on. "A Cleveland-Cliffs-U.S. Steel combo would control 100% of U.S. blast furnace production, 100% of domestic steel used in electric-vehicle motors, and 65% to 90% of other domestic steel used in vehicles," wrote The Wall Street Journal's editorial board on January 3. "Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves lobbied the White House to block the Nippon deal because he wants to create a steel-making cartel shielded from foreign competition by tariffs and Buy America rules." A good deal if you can get itbut an outcome that flies directly in the face of the Biden administration's yearslong campaign against corporate monopolies. In a lawsuit filed Monday challenging Biden's decision to block the deal, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel point out that Cleveland-Cliffs' top brass have not exactly been shy about their anticompetitive goals. A part of the lawsuit alleges that Cleveland-Cliffs' senior vice president of finance told investors that blocking the Nippon deal "would result in 'less competition' and 'one less competitor pushing down prices.'" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the lawsuit claims that Cleveland-Cliffs CEO Lourenco Goncalves told investors in 2023 that being the sole American supplier of certain steel products would "push prices up." "If this illegal campaign succeeds, the American economy and American consumers will face significant harm as a result of a reduction of competition in key steel markets," the lawsuit claims. That is exactly what Biden and his allies have been warning about since taking office: that greater corporate consolidation will harm consumers and allow businesses to engage in price gouging and other unscrupulous, anticompetitive practices. The big difference is that, this time, Biden's labor union allies are happy about the consolidation. United Steelworkers International President David McCall praised Biden's decision to block Nippon's purchase of U.S. Steel, and the union's bosses have been trying to silence rank-and-file members who recognized the benefits of Nippon's purchaselike the Japan-based company's promise to invest $2.7 billion in upgrading U.S. Steel's plants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That makes it seem like Biden was willing to discard one of his administration's top economic policy goals just to do a favor for the steelworkers' union. As is too often the case, it seems like the only monopolies that earn government approval are the ones it helps create. The post With U.S. Steel Decision, Biden Turned His Back on Opposing Monopolies appeared first on Reason.com. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy during an interview on an episode of Bloomberg Wealth with David Rubenstein in Washington, DC on Oct. 26, 2022. Credit - Valerie Plesch/BloombergGetty Images Dr. Vivek Murthy served two terms as U.S. Surgeon Generalfirst under former President Obama, then under President Biden. During his tenure, Murthy was a calm and reassuring voice during COVID-19, one of the biggest health challenges the country has faced in recent years. But most of the time, the "nation's doctor" highlighted public-health issues that usually fly under the radar: loneliness, gun violence, the dangers of social media, overwhelming parental stress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As he prepares to leave office, Murthy wrote a "parting prescription" for the country, reflecting what he feels Americans need most to become healthier and happier. In an interview (lightly edited for clarity and length), Murthy shared with TIME his learnings and his hopes for the health of the nation. TIME: Is a "parting prescription" a tradition for Surgeon Generals to leave behind? Murthy: Its not a tradition that Im aware of. But for me, this was important to do. I realized over two terms that there were critical questions I have been grappling with. What was driving the deeper pain, the unhappiness I was seeing for years across the country? I wanted to lay out some of the answers I have found and the path I hope we can travel down as a country to help us be healthier, happier, and more fulfilled. To me, this is the synthesis of the most important learnings that I have taken away from conversations with people all across the country, and from science and research that I have seen over my two terms. In your prescription, you focus on the need to rebuild a sense of community. How do you define community? Community is a place where we have relationships, help each other, and where we find purpose in each other. Those three elements are the core pillars of community. Community is also a place fueled by a core virtue: thats love, which manifests in generosity, kindnesses, and courage. When you put these together, then you have a place where people find a sense of belonging and meaning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I have found over my two terms is that for many people, that sense of community has eroded. We have millions of Americans struggling with loneliness: a third of adults and half of young people. Peoples participation in both formal and informal service remains low. And more than half of young adults in a recent survey said they felt either low or no sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. To me, these are all red flags. They are warning signs telling us that the fundamental elements we need to live fulfilling lives are vanishing and getting weaker. If we dont do something about them, it may not matter that we have the best policy proposals or are making big financial investments in communities. People wont thrive the way they need to. What effect does that have on the publics health? As community is deteriorating or diminishing in peoples lives, we are starting to see many different manifestations of that. Some involve mental health; others are physical-health related. We are also seeing that when people struggle with loneliness and isolation, it impacts their productivity and engagement at work, and also how kids do in school. When community is weak, we are more easily polarized, divided, and turned against each other. There is a lot of frustration and even anger now about inequities and barriers in the U.S. health care system, from drug pricing to coverage, as evidenced by the reaction to the fatal shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO. How do we address those challenges? One of the biggest challenges in any job, including a job like the Surgeon General, is picking which issues to focus on. We had to make some tough choices at the beginning about how to pick among many worthy issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My thinking has been, where are we uniquely as an office positioned to be able to pull back the curtain on an issue, work out a strategy, and solve a problem? Where can our voice make a unique contribution? Read More: Even Small Amounts of Alcohol Can Cause Cancer, Surgeon General Says I saw very clearly in my first term that mental health was a profound challenge for the country, and it continued to get worse, particularly for young people. I knew coming into the second term that while COVID-19 was a major public-health emergency, the pandemic would make the mental-health struggles we were seeing even worseso we needed to focus on that as much as possible. Part of what I tried to do was widen the lens through which we look at health by recognizing that mental health and social health are also part our well-being and impact each other, as well as our physical health. If we want people to be healthy and want to support their well-being, weve got to understand and support all three dimensions. You oversaw one of the biggest public health threats in our countrys history. Have any lessons from COVID-19 changed U.S. health care for the better? We learned a lot from the pandemic. The government learned a lot about how to produce and distribute vaccines much more rapidly than we thought perhaps ever possible. We learned how to work with industry to rapidly develop treatments and get them out to people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where I have the greatest concern is that what we saw during the pandemic was that health misinformation spread rapidly, and many people didnt know who to trust. But what we did find was that trust in friends, family members, and individual doctors, nurses, and local health departments often remained healthy, even though trust in larger institutions may have eroded. Read More: 10 Questions to Ask Yourself at the Start of a New Year To me, that means we have to invest a lot more in doing the hard work to build local connections between doctors, nurses, local health departments and hospitals, and the communities they serve. Those local relationships are going become central to future pandemics, where misinformation will likely continue to swirl online. A lot of that is contingent on both the government and private sector being able to get accurate information out to people in a timely and trustworthy way. How can health officials rebuild the publics trust in science and health institutions? We have to ask ourselves how we can do better so people dont feel judged when they have a different point of view, and how we can be even more transparent with the reasoning behind decisions or recommendations. How do we build a stronger relationship with the public, and how do we do that not just during a crisis but in between? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we have a relationship with the public, they come to know people in institutions, how an institution functions, and how it makes decisions. It doesnt guarantee that people will trust them, but it increases the chances significantly that when you do have a crisis, even if people disagree with a recommendation, they understand why you did it and are at least open to hearing about the reasoning behind the process. How can we as a country start to build community? When people are not invested in each other, it makes it hard to come together and advocate for and support the policy solutions that we need. If I dont have children, and dont know people who have childrenor if Im not caring for an aging parent or dont know people who arethen I wont go out to advocate for safer schools and home care. But if I am connected to my neighbors, friends, and family, then their concerns become my concerns. Whats next for you after you leave the Surgeon Generals office? I dont 100% know what Im going to do next. What I do know for sure is that the issues I worked on over the last two termsand in particular, the question of how we rebuild community and the social fabric of our country and the worldwill remain central issues to me. I see these as issues we have to address if we want to make the world more hospitable and more nourishing for our kids. I asked my kids, who are 6 and 8, what I should do after being Surgeon General. It probably says something about me that Im looking for career advice from a 6 and 8 year old. They looked at me and smiled and said, Papa, we think you should spend more time playing with us. I thought that was the right advice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read More: What Makes a Friendship Last Forever? I find myself learning a lot by watching my kids. I find that kids, especially when they are really young, tend to be authentic, vulnerable, and also kind and generous. They also tend have an appreciation for the simple wonders in life. I realized that those are the things I want to recenter my life on as well. I want to rediscover the wonder of the simple things in life. I want to experience gratitude more and more in my day-to-day life. I want to figure out how to cultivate more generosity, love, and kindness in my own lifeand figure out how to support and nurture that in world around me. There are a lot of big challenges we face as a country. But I think these moments of great change and uncertainty can also be powerful moments for us to ask the question: how can we live better lives, how can we make changes to create a better world for our children? Those are the questions I want us to grapple with now. If we do that, then I feel very optimistic that we have what it takes to create a community all us deeply need in our lives, and ultimately help us find the fulfillment we all seek. Contact us at letters@time.com. Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The United States on Monday temporarily eased sanction restrictions targeting Syria to facilitate transactions with the Middle Eastern country's interim government and the flow of humanitarian aid. The sanctions easement -- known as Syria General License 24, which was issued by the U.S. Treasury -- will be in place for six months permitting transactions with the Syrian government, including the sale, supply and donation of energy sources, such as petroument, natural gas and electricity. Syria under its former dictator President Bashar al-Assad is among the most heavily sanctioned nation by the United States, Britain and other Western democracies and the easement on Monday is a sign of good faith being outstretched to the country's people and interim government, which took control of Syria after its multi-decade regime fell to a fast-moving rebellion on Dec. 8. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move, however, does not remove individual sanctions, nor permit transactions involving military or intelligence entities or with Iran and Russia, which had for years propped up the embattled Assad regime. Treasury officials said the easement is to help ensure sanctions do not impede essential services and the functions of government. "The end of Bashar al-Assad's brutal and repressive rule, backed by Russia and Iran, provides a unique opportunity for Syria and its people to rebuild," Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said Monday in a statement. "During this period of transition, Treasury will continue to support humanitarian assistance and responsible governance in Syria." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Al-Assad had ruled the country since 2000, taking over following the death of his father who had helmed Syria since taking it in a bloodless army-backed coup in 1970. The country then became isolated on the international stage by international sanctions imposed over Assad's brutal repression of his people amid a civil war that lasted nearly 15 years. By Gibran Naiyyar Peshimam ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates has agreed to roll over the payment of $2 billion due by Pakistan this month, the South Asian nation's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday. Sharif said he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahya while he was on a personal visit to Pakistan on Sunday. "In a one-on-one meeting he said...there is a $2 billion dollar repayment due and we are extending this," Sharif told reporters in a televised press conference.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I asked for the UAE to invest a few billion dollars in key investment projects and that would be helpful," Sharif added. "He said the UAE was committed to this investment and the two countries share brotherly ties," he said. Securing external financing has previously been a key condition for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to approve bail-out deals for the cash-strapped nation. The next review by the IMF of its $7 billion, 37-month loan programe to Pakistan is expected in February. Pakistan's $350 billion economy has struggled for decades with boom-and-bust cycles, needing 23 IMF bailouts since 1958. (Reporting by Gibran Peshimam, writing by Tanvi Mehta and Charlotte Greenfield; Editing by YP Rajesh and Sharon Singleton) The United Arab Emirates has been in discussions about the possibility of playing a role in postwar efforts to rebuild Gaza, but its conditions for doing so have yet to be met, a UAE official told CNN. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has touted the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other countries as potential partners to help govern the territory after the war, but the UAE had previously said that it would refuse to be drawn into any plan aimed at providing cover for the Israeli presence in the Gaza Strip. While there have been many informal conversations taking place, parties involved have not aligned with the UAE preconditions for its involvement in any postwar effort in Gaza, the UAE official told CNN on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official was responding to a report by the Reuters news agency that behind-the-scenes discussions between the UAE, Israel and the United States included the possibility of the UAE, the US and other nations temporarily overseeing governance, security and reconstruction of Gaza after the war. The UAE official told CNN its preconditions include a formal invitation from a new, credible, independent Palestinian Authority (PA) prime minister, a serious reform process in the PA, an explicit commitment to the two-state solution from Israel, and a clear leadership role by the US. The UAE has long advocated for reforms within the PA, which is widely perceived as plagued by corruption, and has called for a change in its leadership. Mohammed Mustafa was sworn in as the PAs prime minister in March, succeeding Mohammed Shtayyeh, who resigned in February. Israeli officials have publicly rejected the possibility of the West Bank-based PA playing a role in postwar Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuters also reported, citing diplomats and Western officials, that UAE officials had suggested the use of private military contractors as part of a peacekeeping force in Gaza. The UAE official who spoke to CNN refuted this. UAE foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed met with his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The Israeli foreign ministry said the two were set to discuss regional developments and bilateral relations. Emirati state news agency WAM said the two ministers discussed the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and regional and international efforts to achieve a sustainable ceasefire. The UAE normalized relations with Israel in a 2020 agreement known as the Abraham Accords, and has maintained relations with it over the course of the Gaza war. Deadly strikes continue As talks about the post-war governance of Gaza continue, so do Israeli attacks across the enclave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of people across Gaza were killed on Tuesday, according to Palestinian authorities. At least seven were killed in strikes across refugee camps in central Gaza, at least eight in the Gaza City area, another five in northern Gazas Jabalya area, and at least 20 including nine children in southern Gazas Khan Younis area. CNN stringer video from the Al Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza shows people digging through rubble that covers the ground in front of destroyed buildings and in bedrooms with missing walls. Resident Lamees Abu Al-Rouz told CNN she was asleep when the strike hit, and that a concrete slab had fallen on her. I started screaming for someone to come and help me, because this cement slab was on my forehead, and I was bleeding a lot. They took me to the hospital and gave me three stiches. Because of the heavy rubble I could not move and as you can see the house is destroyed, she said, pointing to the damaged wall and rubble behind her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN stringer footage of the aftermath in Khan Younis shows rescue crews digging through blood-stained rubble. We came to see what happened to our neighbors, only to find that all the martyrs are children little girls. We carried their remains, little girls covered in blood, resident Hamed Abu Al Kas told CNN. Yahya Sajour, 7, told CNN, I saw so many martyrs torn apart and lifeless; men were carrying them. When I hear bombardments, I always think that my siblings have died. I wish the war would end, the child said. The Israeli military said it had struck Khan Younis on Tuesday evening, targeting militants who took part in the October 7, 2023, attacks, and that it took steps to mitigate the risk of civilian harm. CNN has asked it for comment on the other strikes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gazas health ministry said Israeli attacks had killed at least 45,885 people since October 7, 2023, as of Tuesday. The ministry reiterated the strain hospitals in Gaza are under, with vital supplies like oxygen stations, medicine storage refrigerators and fuel for generators all severely impacted. Mohammad Al Sawalhi, Abeer Salman, Kareem Khadder, Lauren Izso and Hira Humayun contributed to this report. A previous version of this story cited the UAE official as saying the discussions were being held with the US and Israel in the lede. That has been corrected. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (NewsNation) Two popular rideshare companies are now preparing to offer a new feature: driverless taxis. Uber and Lyft are currently training staff on how to maintain the autonomous vehicles ahead of their public launch in the coming months. Uber customers in Atlanta, Georgia, and Austin, Texas, will be able to hail one of these driverless rideshare cars via the app when released. There have been concerns about the efficacy of these Waymo driverless vehicles, with software glitches causing repeated honking in a Waymo parking lot in San Francisco last August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Zuckerberg denies claims of building doomsday bunker in Hawaii In 2023, activists targeted these robotaxis with a cone campaign, disabling sensors with traffic cones to disrupt the industry. In December, a man heading to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport posted a video to LinkedIn showing his Waymo vehicle going in circles due to a glitch. Waymo told NewsNation the issue has since been fixed with a software update, and the man was only delayed for approximately five minutes. The vehicles debuted in Los Angeles in 2023 and are something of a common sight in traffic. Customers in California and Arizona can hail Waymo via the Waymo One app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Uber and Lyft are developing Robo taxi partnerships to offer driverless rides in the future and get a cut from those fares. Tesla is expected to join the race in the future, while Amazon is testing its own driverless vehicle called Zoox. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) The University of Evansville (UE) invites the community to join a series of events honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as part of the institutions annual MLK celebration. UE says this years theme is Collective Leadership in a Changing World, reflects Dr. Kings enduring message of unity, justice, and transformative service. Evansville firefighters face water issues at Madison Avenue blaze Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say the celebration will begin on January 18 with UE students, faculty, staff and alumni are invited to participate in the Joint MLK Day of Service, where participants will work together to uplift local neighborhoods in partnership with the University of Southern Indiana (USI) and Ivy Tech Community College. Other gatherings such as a faith-based dialogue, a symbolic march and lectures will provide space to reflect on Dr. Kings vision for a more equitable society. NAACP Evansville branch to host breakfast honoring MLK UE says the 2025 lectureship will feature keynote speaker will be Dr. Karsonya Kaye Wise Whitehead, who returns to Evansville after speaking at the 22nd Annual Womens Equality Day in August 2024. Concluding the celebration, Dr. Kaye will have a book signing and facilitate the annual Community Leadership Panel that will bring together voices from across Evansville to discuss and explore pathways toward unity and action. Pre-registration is required for the Joint Day of Service. For further details and registration links, visit this webpage. 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). UK intelligence has stated that in 2024, Russia suffered record losses in killed and wounded in infantry attacks on many fronts of Ukraine, with December being the month of the highest losses. Source: European Pravda with reference to a review by the UK Ministry of Defence on 7 January Details: The review cites the Ukrainian General Staff's calculation of losses, according to which Russian losses (both killed and wounded) in 2024 amounted to a record 429,660 people, compared to almost 253,000 in 2023, and the total losses since the start of the full-scale war have exceeded 790,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was also noted that the biggest losses occurred in December according to Ukrainian estimates, Russia lost 48,670 killed and wounded. November came second with more than 45,000 killed and wounded. "December was the sixth straight month that Russian Forces have suffered an increase in monthly total losses," UK intelligence said. They also stated that on 19 December, Russia reported record losses in one day 2,200 people. "Russia will highly likely continue to experience high casualty rates over January 2025 with continued dismounted infantry attacks on multiple axes," UK intelligence summed up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: As of 7 January, according to the Ukrainian General Staff, Russian losses have exceeded 800,000 since the start of the full-scale war. A December 2024 review by the UK MoD said that since 2022, Russia had lost more than 3,000 main battle tanks. In December, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the losses of the parties in the war in Ukraine had exceeded one million people, adding that Russian losses had reached more than 700,000 killed and wounded. In early December, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed and 370,000 wounded since 24 February 2022, while Russian losses at that time exceeded 750,000 people, including 198,000 killed and more than 550,000 wounded. Support UP or become our patron! LONDON (AP) A lawyer for Shein summoned to a British parliamentary hearing evaded questions Tuesday on whether the fast-fashion giant sells products containing cotton from China, angering lawmakers seeking answers on the retailer's labor practices and allegations of forced labor in its supply chains. Executives from Shein and its rival Temu were grilled on their labor rights compliance and how they source their products at Parliaments business and trade committee Tuesday. The hearing came amid reports that Shein, which was founded in China but is now based in Singapore, is preparing for a 50 billion-pound ($62 billion) listing on the London Stock Exchange in the first quarter of this year. Both global retailers are growing in popularity worldwide for selling mostly Chinese-made clothes and products at bargain prices. But they have drawn criticism over allegations that their supply chains may be tainted by forced labor, including from China's far-west Xinjiang province, where rights groups say serious human rights abuses were committed by Beijing against members of the ethnic Uyghur group and other Muslim minorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yinan Zhu, general counsel at Shein in London, declined to answer repeated questions at the hearing on whether cotton from Xinjiang or elsewhere in China is present in the products it sells. She also refused to state whether its code of conduct prohibits its suppliers from sourcing Xinjiang cotton, or comment on whether the company feared there is forced labor in Xinjiang. I dont think its our place to comment on to having a geopolitical debate," she said. We comply with the laws and regulations in the countries that we operate in. We are in compliance with relevant U.K. laws," she added, insisting that thousands of audits are carried out on Shein's behalf by verified external firms to ensure the robustness of its supply chains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Committee chairman Liam Byrne said the parliamentary committee was horrified by the lack of information provided by Zhu and that her statements have given lawmakers zero confidence in the integrity of Shein's supply chains. The reluctance to answer basic questions has frankly bordered on contempt, Byrne said. Shein was founded in China in 2012 and has grown rapidly to become a global leader in fast fashion, shipping to 150 countries. In October Shein said it doubled its profits in the U.K. in 2023, with sales up nearly 40% to 1.5 billion pounds. Its proposed London listing has drawn concerns from politicians and others including the U.K.s independent anti-slavery commissioner over potential ethical and governance issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An earlier attempt by Shein to list in the U.S. was halted by lawmakers who wanted the company to verify it does not use forced labor from China's predominantly Muslim Uyghur population. Stephen Heary, a senior lawyer for Temu, told the hearing that forced labor was an issue its senior management was concerned about and that no sellers from the Xinjiang region are allowed to sell goods on the global online marketplace. A U.S. Congressional report in 2023 criticized Temus supply chains, saying there was an extremely high risk that it contained Chinese forced labor. The report said Temu conducts no audits and reports no compliance system to affirmatively examine whether its suppliers are observing U.S. forced labor law. Temu, launched in 2022, is owned by Chinese e-commerce company PDD Holdings. Along with Shein, it has won over scores of consumers for selling a vast selection of cheap goods from clothing to homeware that are shipped from China. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that some 38,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded fighting in Russia's western Kursk region since August, with Kyiv now launching a fresh offensive in the border region. "We continue to maintain a buffer zone on Russian territory, actively destroying Russian military potential there," Zelenskyy said in a statement posted Monday to the presidency's website. Monday marked five months since Ukrainian units crossed into Kursk in a surprise summer 2024 offensive. Russian forces -- recently supported by North Korean troops -- have since slowly been reclaiming ground in their bid to eject Ukrainian troops from the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, Ukrainian and Russian officials confirmed that Kyiv had launched a fresh offensive in Kursk, with fierce fighting reported in several villages. PHOTO: This handout picture taken and released by Ukrainian Presidential Press Service on Dec. 26, 2024 shows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an award ceremony in Kyiv. (Handout/UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SER) "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," Zelenskyy said. "The Russians have deployed their strong units to the Kursk region," he added. "Soldiers from North Korea are involved there. What's important is that the occupier cannot currently redirect all this force to other directions, in particular the Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv or Zaporizhzhia regions." "I thank all our warriors who are bringing the war back to Russia and providing Ukraine with greater security and strength," Zelenskyy said. 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. Bloggers also reported an attack farther west on the border town of Tetkino. Russia's Defense Ministry said in a statement Monday that two assaults were repelled. "The operation to destroy the Ukrainian Armed Forces formations continues," it wrote on Telegram. MORE: Ukraine launches new offensive in Russia's Kursk region, Kyiv and Moscow confirm The Institute for the Study of War think tank reported that Ukraine intensified its offensive operations in Kursk through Monday, with Russian forces elsewhere in the region launching their own fresh attacks on the Ukrainian salient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The think tank reported "tactical advances" by Ukrainian troops in areas northeast of Sudzha, though the extent of their success remains unclear. Andriy Yermak -- the head of Zelenskyy's presidential office -- wrote Sunday in a post to Telegram there was "good news" from the Kursk battlefields, adding: "Russia is getting what it deserves." Ukraine launched its latest Kursk push just two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump has promised to end the war in 24 hours, repeatedly hinting at pressing Ukraine to make territorial and political concessions in exchange for peace. PHOTO: A Ukrainian serviceman fires a Giatsint-B howitzer towards Russian troops at a position on a front line in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, on Jan. 6, 2025. (Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters) Zelenskyy and his top officials have been working hard to build ties with the incoming administration and convince the president-elect of the need to support Ukraine and contain Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy said Monday that he "held a meeting with international relations officials to plan our meetings and negotiations for January." "We are accelerating arms deliveries to Ukraine and working toward new and more long-term relations with partners," he said. "We are preparing positive diplomatic news for Ukraine." Continued Ukrainian presence in Kursk may give Kyiv more leverage in peace talks with Moscow, with Russian troops still occupying around 25% of Ukraine's internationally recognized territory. "We don't need Russian territory, but we need our territories back," Yehor Cherniev -- a member of the Ukrainian Parliament and the chairman of his country's delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly -- told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This will probably be one of the positions for further negotiations," Cherniev said. ABC News' Patrick Reevell and Natasha Popova contributed to this report. Ukraine is bringing war 'back to Russia,' Zelenskyy says after new Kursk offensive originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Ukraine rejected Slovakia's claims that it had refused to participate in trilateral talks with the EU and Slovakia on Russian gas transit. Slovak, Ukrainian, and European Commission representatives were scheduled to meet on Jan. 7 in Brussels to discuss the termination of the Russian gas transit through Ukrainian territory. Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko had planned to attend the Brussels discussions but was forced to stay in Kyiv due to urgent energy sector issues, Ukraine's ambassador to the EU, Vsevolod Chentsov, told Politico on Jan. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv proposed holding the meeting online, but the European Commission suggested rescheduling for later, Chentsov said. According to Chentsov, Ukraine initiated the meeting to address Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico's threats to halt electricity exports to Ukraine and cut support for Ukrainian refugees. "Ukraine triggered the early warning mechanism on electricity supplies because of Fico's threats to stop the supplies, not gas transit talks," Chentsov said. Ukraine refused to prolong a natural gas transit agreement with Russia, which expired on Jan. 1, citing its refusal to finance Russia's war machine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the EUs push to cut reliance on Russian fossil fuels, Slovakia remains dependent on Russian gas, bound by a long-term contract with Gazprom, Moscow's state-owned energy giant. Switching to alternative supply routes could cost Slovakia an additional 220 million euros ($229 million) in transit fees, Fico claimed. Earlier on Jan. 7, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto accused Ukraine of exacerbating Europe's economic challenges by halting Russian gas transit, leading to a 20% rise in natural gas prices on the European market. Alongside Slovakia and Austria, Hungary remains reliant on Russian gas purchased through Gazprombank, which is under Western sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Europe might soon feel intense pressure to strike a deal with Moscow, Polish FM warns Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian soldiers struck on Jan. 7 the command post of Russia's 810th Guards Naval Infantry Brigade near the village of Belaya in Russia's Kursk Oblast, Ukraine's General Staff claimed. The report came days after Ukraine reportedly launched renewed offensive operations in Kursk Oblast, which is seen as a crucial bargaining chip for potential peace negotiations. Almost 100 Russian ground assaults were repelled in Kursk Oblast over the past day, the General Staff said. "Such fire damage is an integral part of combat operations of Ukraine's Defense Forces units, which are engaged in combat operations on the territory of the Russian Federation," the statement read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No further details on the attack and the extent of the damage were disclosed. The Russian military has not commented on Ukraine's claim. Another Russian command post came under Ukraine's attack in Maryino, Kursk Oblast, on Jan. 2, according to the military. The Kyiv Independent could not verify these claims. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged on Jan. 6 that the Ukrainian advance was halted and that Ukraine's primary units were destroyed near Berdin, a settlement along a road leading northeast to the city of Kursk. Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale operation in Kursk Oblast in early August, allegedly capturing up to 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian soil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, Russia has deployed reinforcements including North Korean soldiers in the area and reportedly retook around half of the lost territory. Read also: Putin sends trusted general to fend off Ukraines offensive in Kursk Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian forces continue to hold positions in the western outskirts of Kurakhove in Donetsk Oblast and a local power plant, but the situation in the town is "difficult," a military spokesperson said on Jan. 7. "The situation in Kurakhove is really quite difficult right now, because a significant part of the city has been destroyed," Khortytsia group of forces spokesperson Viktor Trehubov said on national television on Jan. 7, only a day after Russia claimed to have full control over the town. Kurakhove has become one of the focal points of the Russian offensive in Donetsk Oblast over the past few months, turning the town into one of the hottest sectors of the front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town lies over 20 kilometers (over 10 miles) north of Russian-occupied Vuhledar and over 30 kilometers (almost 20 miles) south of the key front-line town of Pokrovsk. "Ukrainian troops are holding on the western part of the town, its western outskirts. They are also holding onto a power plant located in the town," Trehubov added. According to the spokesperson, Russian forces are attempting to raze Kurakhove building by building, destroying any potential defenses for Ukrainian soldiers. This method mirrors Russian tactics used in other front-line towns like Toretsk, where there are reportedly "no intact buildings left" after Moscow's onslaught. In its Jan. 7 report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported fending off 26 Russian assaults in the Kurakhove sector, including in the area of the town itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DeepState monitoring group shows Kurakhove almost completely in Russian hands, save for small areas in the west. If taken, Kurakhove would be the first significant town to fall into Russian hands in 2025 after Russia took Avdiivka and Vuhledar last year. Moscow's troops now focus their efforts at Pokrovsk, an important logistics hub, as part of their overall goal to capture the entire Donetsk Oblast. The estimated Russian advance in the Kurakhove sector of Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, as of Jan. 6, 2025, according to the DeepState monitoring group. (DeepState/OpenStreetMaps) 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. Three Ukrainian children a 17-year-old boy and two younger boys have been returned from Russian-occupied regions to Ukraine-controlled territory, Ukraines Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets announced on Jan. 7. The 17-year-old faced persecution by Russian occupation authorities for his pro-Ukrainian stance and assistance to the Ukrainian army, according to Lubinets. "He supported Ukraine under occupation and endured interrogations, threats, and intimidation from occupation representatives. Yet neither fear nor pressure broke his spirit," Lubinets said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teenager is receiving humanitarian and financial support and preparing to continue his education in Ukraine. The two younger boys were separated from their mother, who fled Ukraine due to the war. Left in occupied Donetsk Oblast with their biological father, the boys were evacuated with the assistance of Lubinets office and reunited with their mother. "Today, this family is safe and beginning the journey to heal the wounds of war," he said. Since the start of Russias full-scale invasion, almost 20,000 Ukrainian children have been abducted by Russia, according to the Children of War database. Fewer than 400 have been returned home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigations by the Financial Times and The Guardian revealed systemic efforts by Russian authorities to re-educate illegally deported children and, in some cases, place them for adoption through government-linked platforms. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, the Russian official allegedly overseeing the forced deportations of Ukrainian children to Russia, in March 2023. The ICC wrote that it believes Putin bears individual criminal responsibility as the leader of Russia for the crimes committed against Ukrainian children. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The new year is bringing a seismic shift for war-torn Ukraines energy systems. Even as Russias military rained missiles down on Ukrainian cities, Moscows state-owned gas giant, Gazprom, has earned billions selling fuel to Europe via Ukraines Soviet-era pipeline network. But Russias invasion made negotiating a renewal deal with Kyiv impossible, and Gazproms five-year contract to transit gas through Ukraine expired on New Years Day. So this month, Ukraine is getting a new gas supplier: the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first shipment of American gas into Ukraine marks a milestone in Washingtons bid to replace Russia as Europes top source of the fuel most used for heating and electricity. Analysts say the delivery just weeks before President-elect Donald Trumps inauguration, and amid what is forecast to be a particularly cold winter offers a direct appeal to an American leader who campaigned on expanding U.S. exports of natural gas but whose Republican Party is split on whether to continue military support for Kyiv. The historic significance of this moment cant be understated, said Olga Khakova, the deputy director for European energy security at the Atlantic Councils Global Energy Center. This provides opportunities for Ukraine to be seen as an energy partner and not just be seen through the lens of being a charity case, which Ukraine is not. Last April, the U.S. took the top spot as the worlds No. 1 exporter of liquefied natural gas, a version of the fuel thats been super-chilled to a liquid form to make shipping easier. Two months later, Ukraines largest private energy company, DTEK, announced a deal to start buying LNG from Virginia-based Venture Global, one of the U.S. biggest producers. A worker walks past scorched equipments a power plant of energy provider DTEK, destroyed after an attack, in an undisclosed location in Ukraine on April 19, 2024, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. GENYA SAVILOV via Getty Images On Dec. 4, a gas tanker carrying 100 million cubic meters of fuel departed Calcasieu Pass LNG terminal in Louisiana. The vessel arrived at a port in Greece on Dec. 27, where special equipment turned the liquefied fuel back into gas that was then pumped into storage containers and the local energy system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shipping the gas along the patchwork of pipelines connecting Greece to Ukraine would be expensive on top of the already-steep cost of transporting the fuel across the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, most of the gas arriving from Louisiana will end up burned in Greece. On paper, however, DTEK traded that shipment of American fuel for an equivalent supply of gas currently in storage units in Hungary and Bulgaria. That means just some of the physical gas molecules expected to flow into Ukraine sometime in the coming days actually came from the U.S. Most of the gas making its way to Ukraine now came via pipelines from Norway, but some includes LNG shipped to Germany from the U.S. None of the gas originated in Russia, DTEK said. Still, DTEK called the debut delivery a symbolic step meant to test the route, test the mechanics of the deal and test the terminals before ramping up shipments from the U.S. The company predicted flows would definitely increase over the next four years. The next administration will be even more supportive of the investment into the gas industry, the transportation of gas, and building new LNG production terminals, Dmytro Sakharuk, the chief executive of DTEKs commodity trading subsidiary, D.Trading, told HuffPost via a Zoom call from Kyiv last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of ships and volumes will increase, he added. We want to be part of that. We think its very important, not just from a commercial point of view but also a political point of view. For much of the past two decades, Europe has depended on cheap Russian gas shipped westward via pipelines to power its industries, keep homes warm in the winter, and transition away from coal, which typically produces far more lung-damaging and planet-heating pollution than gas when burned. Europes largest economy, Germany, increased its reliance on Russian gas even more in 2023, when Berlinshuttered all Germannuclear power plants. Before invading Ukraine, Moscow started restricting flows of gas to countries in the U.S.-led NATO alliance. Once the war started, those European nations sought alternatives to Russian gas, sales of which were financing the conflict. And as a fracking boom transformed the U.S. into a top producer of gas and oil, American companies stepped in to fill the gap. A neighbor watches flames flare from the Venture Global LNG's Calcasieu Pass liquefied natural gas export facility next to his oceanside property in Cameron, La., on Friday, April 1, 2022. via Associated Press Last January, the Biden administration paused federal permitting approvals for new LNG terminals as the Department of Energy completed a study examining the economic and environmental effects of the export boom. But a federal judge in Louisiana overturned the Biden administrations pause months later, and the Energy Department started approving new permits again in September. While the freeze is still technically being contested in court, Trump vowed on the campaign trail to end the freeze on Day 1 of his next presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If planned construction continues U.S. LNG export capacities will have nearly doubled by the time Trumps next term expires. By 2028, the U.S. will have the capacity to ship 232 billion cubic meters of LNG overseas per year, up from 126 billion today and far ahead of second-place Qatars 171 billion. That is enough to meet global demand for LNG for decades to come, according to a long-awaited study from the Energy Department, published last month. Citing that research, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, in trying to defend the LNG pause Biden backed, warned that lifting restrictions on more LNG exports threatened to raise Americans energy bills at home and would dangerously increase planet-heating emissions. The analysis exposes a triple-cost increase to U.S. consumers from increasing LNG exports, she said in a statement. That includes the increasing domestic price of the natural gas itself [and] increases in electricity prices, given that gas is the top source of electricity in many U.S. power markets. American industry would also end up paying $125 billion more for energy, Granholm said, leading to additional potential price increases for a wide range of consumer goods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Urging Congress and federal regulators to limit LNG exports, the Industrial Energy Consumers of America, a trade association representing U.S. manufacturers, pointed out how large a share of U.S. gas output is destined for overseas compared to other fossil fuel production. While the U.S. exports just about 10% of its gasoline and less than a quarter of its crude oil, the LNG export facilities already approved today have the capacity to export volumes equal to more than half the net supply of gas produced in the U.S. in the entirety of 2023. An LNG tanker moored off the coast of the Mediterranean port of Limassol. Cyprus, Saturday, June 29, 2024. NurPhoto via Getty Images For crude and gasoline, the U.S. has a Strategic Petroleum Reserve. There is no equivalent for natural gas, Paul Cicio, the president of IECA, said in a statement. Consumers are completely exposed. Ukraines bid to become a new distributor of imported American natural gas isnt just about cementing ties with the U.S. Among the countries most affected by the end of Russian gas shipments through Ukraines pipelines are Slovakia and Hungary, who will help decide the fate of Ukraines bid to join the European Union and whose leaders have maintained closer relations with Russia than most in the continental bloc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What the Ukrainians are trying to do is to put themselves in a position to have more leverage over Hungary and Slovakia and potentially make them a little friendlier to the Ukrainian position in this war as we head into negotiations, said George Beebe, the director of grand strategy at the Washington-based Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft. DTEK said its imports bring new additional volumes into the region that will decrease thespikein gas prices from the loss of the Russian supply. If you have enough gas, nobody is nervous about volumes, said Sakharuk. Thats why the price stays stable. The new supply may do little to ease the burden on Moldova, Europes poorest nation and the country most impacted by the halt in Russian pipeline shipments, as HuffPost previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Making Ukraine a major market for U.S. LNG depends first on reaching a settlement of the war, since the local economy can only use so much fuel as the nations infrastructure lays in ruin from ongoing fighting, Beebe said. Even then, he said, Ukraine is likely to remain a relatively small import hub compared to ports in Germany and the Baltics, where U.S. tankers are currently offloading fuel. Could it be politically significant in that Ukraine is sending a signal it wants to align itself with Trumps priorities in Europe? That helps marginally, Beebe said. The Ukrainians are trying to do everything they can to ingratiate themselves with Trump, knowing their future is heavily dependent on decisions the Trump administration makes on policies toward Ukraine and the terms on which the war might get settled. Related... Key developments on Jan. 7: Ukraine hits Russia's infantry brigade command post in Kursk Oblast, military claims In historic record, Ukrainian F-16 pilot downs 6 cruise missiles in single mission, Air Force claims Trump blames Biden for provoking Russia's war by supporting Ukraine's NATO aspirations Ukraine says it holds Kurakhove's western outskirts despite Russia's claim of capture Ukrainian soldiers struck on Jan. 7 the command post of Russia's 810th Guards Naval Infantry Brigade near the village of Belaya in Russia's Kursk Oblast, Ukraine's General Staff claimed. The report came days after Ukraine reportedly launched renewed offensive operations in Kursk Oblast, which is seen as a crucial bargaining chip for potential peace negotiations. Almost 100 Russian ground assaults were repelled in Kursk Oblast over the past day, the General Staff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Such fire damage is an integral part of combat operations of Ukraine's Defense Forces units, which are engaged in combat operations on the territory of the Russian Federation," the statement read. No further details on the attack and the extent of the damage were disclosed. The Russian military has not commented on Ukraine's claim. Another Russian command post came under Ukraine's attack in Maryino, Kursk Oblast, on Jan. 2, according to the military. The Kyiv Independent could not verify these claims. The Russian Defense Ministry alleged on Jan. 6 that the Ukrainian advance was halted and that Ukraine's primary units were destroyed near Berdin, a settlement along a road leading northeast to the city of Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale operation in Kursk Oblast in early August, allegedly capturing up to 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian soil. Since then, Russia has deployed reinforcements including North Korean soldiers in the area and reportedly retook around half of the lost territory. Read also: Putin sends trusted general to fend off Ukraines offensive in Kursk In historic record, Ukrainian F-16 pilot downs 6 cruise missiles in single mission, Air Force claims For the first time in the history of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a Ukrainian-operated jet shot down six Russian cruise missiles during a single mission in December, including two with the aircraft cannon, the Air Force claimed on Jan. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The interception reportedly took place during a mass Russian aerial strike on the morning of Dec. 13, 2024, which saw Russia deploy almost 200 drones and 94 missiles. "For the first time in the history of the Fighting Falcon, an F-16 fighter jet destroyed six Russian cruise missiles in one combat mission," the Air Force Command said on social media. Ukraine has received a number of U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets from the Netherlands and Denmark, deploying them multiple times in air defense roles during Russian mass strikes on cities and infrastructure. "They say that even Americans couldn't believe you did it," Air Force Command spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said in an interview with the pilot, whose identity was not revealed. The aviator said that he approached a group of cruise missiles and, despite their electronic warfare countermeasures, managed to lock on to targets. The F-16 reportedly shot down one pair of Russian projectiles with medium-range missiles and then another pair with short-range missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian F-16s are equipped with four air-to-air medium-range and short-range missiles. Without missiles and low on fuel, the pilot was then recalled from the area but spotted another missile heading toward Kyiv. He moved to intercept it and opened fire from his aircraft cannon against the projectile, which was flying over 650 kilometers per hour, a difficult and risky maneuver, the Air Force said. "A few bursts from the cannon and an explosion... then another one! 'A secondary detonation,' I thought, but, as it turned out, there were two missiles," the pilot said, adding he did everything as taught by U.S. instructors. According to the Air Force Command, Ukrainian pilots have learned how to shoot down missiles with aircraft cannons in simulators in the U.S. but have never attempted it during actual combat before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. The F-16 Fighting Falcon entered into service in late 1978, and its various versions have been used by over two dozen countries, including the U.S. and its European allies. More than 4,600 F-16s have been built, and the platform has been deployed in multiple conflicts worldwide. Read also: Ukraine gave a glimpse of its first F-16s what can it tell us? Trump blames Biden for provoking Russia's war by supporting Ukraine's NATO aspirations During a Jan. 7 press conference, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump blamed President Joe Biden for provoking Russias full-scale invasion by supporting Ukraines NATO membership aspirations. Trump argued that Ukraines potential NATO membership has long been a major concern for Moscow. "Thats been like written in stone. And Biden said, 'No, they should be able to join NATO.' Then Russia has somebody right on their doorstep. I could understand their [Russia's] feelings about that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A report by The Wall Street Journal has previously suggested that Trumps team was exploring a plan to delay Ukraines NATO membership by at least 20 years in exchange for Western arms supplies and European peacekeepers to monitor a potential ceasefire with Russia. Trump also criticized Bidens foreign policy decisions, including the withdrawal from Afghanistan, repeating his claims that they contributed to Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to launch a full-scale war against Ukraine. When asked about possible negotiations with Putin, Trump said he would wait until after his Jan. 20 inauguration to hold talks. "I dont think its appropriate that I meet until after Jan. 20, which I hate because you know every day people are being many, many young people are being killed soldiers," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Dec. 19, Putin reiterated his willingness to engage in dialogue with Trump but upheld Moscows demands, including the desire to fully occupy four Ukrainian regions Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson and a rejection of Ukraines NATO membership. Trump has pledged during the election campaign to bring a swift end to the war but has not outlined concrete steps for achieving peace. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed dissatisfaction with Trumps reported peace deal proposals on Dec. 29, saying that Moscow rejects any plan that fails to meet its demands. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed cautious optimism about working with the incoming U.S. administration, reiterating Ukraines commitment to a diplomatic resolution by 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia delusional about its ability to sustain Ukraine war, says Latvian foreign minister Ukraine says it holds Kurakhove's western outskirts despite Russia's claim of capture Ukrainian forces continue to hold positions in the western outskirts of Kurakhove in Donetsk Oblast and a local power plant, but the situation in the town is "difficult," a military spokesperson said on Jan. 7. "The situation in Kurakhove is really quite difficult right now because a significant part of the city has been destroyed," Khortytsia group of forces spokesperson Viktor Trehubov said on national television on Jan. 7, only a day after Russia claimed to have full control over the town. Kurakhove has become one of the focal points of the Russian offensive in Donetsk Oblast over the past few months, turning the town into one of the hottest sectors of the front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town lies over 20 kilometers (over 10 miles) north of Russian-occupied Vuhledar and over 30 kilometers (almost 20 miles) south of the key front-line town of Pokrovsk. "Ukrainian troops are holding on the western part of the town, its western outskirts. They are also holding onto a power plant located in the town," Trehubov added. According to the spokesperson, Russian forces are attempting to raze Kurakhove building by building, destroying any potential defenses for Ukrainian soldiers. This method mirrors Russian tactics used in other front-line towns like Toretsk, where there are reportedly "no intact buildings left" after Moscow's onslaught. The estimated Russian advance in the Kurakhove sector of Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, as of Jan. 6, 2025, according to the DeepState monitoring group. (DeepState/OpenStreetMaps) In its Jan. 7 report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported fending off 26 Russian assaults in the Kurakhove sector, including in the area of the town itself. The DeepState monitoring group shows Kurakhove almost completely in Russian hands, save for small areas in the west. If taken, Kurakhove would be the first significant town to fall into Russian hands in 2025 after Russia took Avdiivka and Vuhledar last year. Moscow's troops now focus their efforts on Pokrovsk, an important logistics hub, as part of their overall goal to capture the entire Donetsk Oblast. Read also: Ukraines military refutes claims of Russia taking Kharkiv Oblast village Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Rustem Umierov, Defence Minister of Ukraine, has appointed Oleksandr Kubrakov, former Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine and Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development, as his pro bono advisor. Source: Rustem Umierov on Facebook Quote from Rustem Umierov: "I have appointed Oleksandr Kubrakov as my pro bono advisor. His experience as deputy prime minister, minister of infrastructure and head of the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine is important and will help improve the supply and logistics system in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am confident that his state and practical experience will contribute to improving the efficiency of defence processes and strengthening our defence capabilities." Background: On 9 May 2024, the parliament dismissed Oleksandr Kubrakov from the post of Deputy Prime Minister for the Restoration of Ukraine and Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine. Ukrainska Pravda sources report that at that time, the issue of Kubrakov's reappointment to the government was planned to be considered after the Ministry of Community, Territorial and Infrastructure Development was ready to be divided. Support UP or become our patron! A military spokesperson on Jan. 7 denied reports of Russia taking the village of Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast, saying there had not even been any "serious clashes" in the area at the time. Located in Ukraine's northeast, Lozova lies near the administrative borders with Luhansk Oblast and around 30 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of the front-line town of Kupiansk. The crowdsourced war-monitoring DeepState map showed that the Russian military recently took the village. The Kyiv Independent could not independently verify the claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's hard for me to determine where the information about its capture came from. The information (coming in) from that place is contradictory. There is not even information about serious clashes there as of now," Khortytsia group of forces spokesperson Viktor Trehubov said on national television. DeepState is an independent mapping project with close ties to the Defense Ministry. It is widely trusted as one of the most reliable sources of accurate information on territorial changes along the front line. As Ukraine ended 2024 with an unsolved manpower shortage and setbacks in several key battles, Russian units are gaining ground incrementally in Ukraine's east. DeepState showing Lozova in Kharkiv Oblast occupied by Russia as of Jan. 6, 2025. (DeepState/OpenStreetMaps) Read also: Negative lesson Ground Forces chief acknowledges desertions, mismanagement in French-trained brigade Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Soldiers from the 8th Separate Special Operations Regiment of Ukraines Special Operations Forces (SOF) have killed 13 North Korean servicemen in Russias Kursk Oblast. Source: press service for the Special Operations Forces Details: SOF soldiers killed five North Korean fighters in a gunfight and another eight using drones during special operations. After the battle, the SOF personnel conducted an inspection of the North Korean soldiers bodies and their personal documents. One of the soldiers had an assault rifle with a collimator sight, a Chinese-Russian Azart radio station, a drone detector, as well as an ID that differed from the usual military card. The special forces noted that these findings may indicate his affiliation with the officer corps. Among other things, the North Korean soldier was carrying a letter addressed to the party [presumably the Workers Party of Korea ed.]. Support UP or become our patron! The Russians attacked Ukraine with 38 Shahed attack UAVs and various types of decoy drones on the night of 6-7 January. Ukraines air defence systems shot down 28 drones, and another 10 Russian decoy drones disappeared from radar. Source: Air Force Command Details: The drones were launched from the cities of Millerovo, Kursk and Primorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia. The air attack was repelled by aircraft, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare units and mobile fire groups of the Air Force and the defence forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 09:00, 28 Shahed attack UAVs and other types of drones were confirmed downed in Poltava, Sumy, Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Mykolaiv, Kherson and Kirovohrad oblasts. There were no hits recorded. Ten Russian decoy drones disappeared from radar (causing no adverse effects), three of which flew towards Russia. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian defence forces have attacked the command post of the 810th Separate Marine Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces near the village of Belaya, Kursk Oblast. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Details: The General Staff said that on 7 January, the Armed Forces of Ukraine conducted a precision strike on the command post of the 810th Separate Marine Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces near the village of Belaya in Kursk Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Ukrainian forces explain, such attacks are an integral part of combat operations of the Ukrainian defence forces units engaged in combat operations in the territory of the Russian Federation. Quote: "The Armed Forces of Ukraine will use all available assets to destroy the military units of the Russian Federation that threaten the security of Ukrainian citizens." 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 Ukrainians were advancing from Sudzha's direction towards the village of Bolshoye Soldatskoye. The Centre for Strategic Communications (StratCom) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that on the night of 25 December 2024, the Ukrainian defence forces hit the command post of the 810th Separate Marine Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces in the village of Lgov, Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian forces repelled 94 Russian ground assaults in Russia's Kursk Oblast over the past day, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported on Jan. 7 amid escalating hostilities in the region. This represents nearly half of the skirmishes over the past day, as the military reported 218 clashes across the front. On Jan. 5, Ukraine launched renewed offensive operations in the Russian region, which is seen as crucial for any possible peace negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russian Defense Ministry alleged on Jan. 6 that the Ukrainian advance was halted and that Ukraine's primary units were destroyed near Berdin, a settlement along a road leading northeast to the city of Kursk. Ukraine has not commented on the claims and provided limited information on the operation. The U.S.-based think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said that between Jan. 5 and 6, Ukrainian forces advanced in southern Berdin, central Russkoye Porechnoye, and central Novosotnitsky, all northeast of Sudzha, a key Ukraine-held town in the region. The ISW analysts speculated that these attacks "may be the beginning stages of a concerted Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast or elsewhere in the theater." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, Russian forces took advantage of Ukrainian activity to attack elsewhere in the Kursk Oblast salient, apparently advancing west of Malaya Loknya, according to the ISW. The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale operation in Kursk Oblast in early August, allegedly capturing up to 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of Russian soil. Since then, Russia has deployed reinforcements including North Korean soldiers in the area and reportedly retook around half of the lost territory. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prospects of negotiations in 2025 are hotly discussed amid U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's pledges to bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table. 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. For the first time, Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drones using a naval drone as a springboard took out three Russian air defense systems, Ukraines Centre for Strategic Communication and Information Security said on Jan. 7. "Only a week after Ukrainian sea drones made history by successfully taking down Russian helicopters, another historical first as our homegrown naval drones are now launching their own FPV drones, destroying Russia's air defense units," the government agency said on social media. As a result of the attack on Jan. 6, two Russian anti-missile Pantsir-S1 systems and one OSA anti-aircraft vehicle were reportedly damaged or destroyed in the occupied part of Ukraine's southern Kherson Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strikes were carried out by Ukraine's Navy, which released a video of the attack against one of the Pantsir systems. The Kyiv Independent could not establish the extent of damage dealt to Russian air defenses. 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. The attack came a week after Ukrainian Magura V5 naval drones hit three Russian Mi-8 helicopters, downing two of them over the Black Sea in another strike that was also the first of its kind. President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree in February ordering the creation of a separate branch of the Armed Forces for drones, called Unmanned Systems Forces, to command the rapidly evolving drone warfare in Russias war against Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheaper to operate and more precise than most artillery systems, drones quickly became one of the main tools for Ukraine to fend off Russias assaults amid chronic artillery ammunition shortages. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukraine strikes 3 Russian air defense systems in single day; 3,800 North Korean troops killed, injured in Kursk Oblast Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has appointed former Vice Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov as his advisor "on a voluntary basis," Umerov announced on Jan. 7. Kubrakov had headed the Infrastructure Ministry since May 2021 before being dismissed in May 2024 for unclear reasons. While his dismissal was formally justified by the restructuring of Kubrakov's ministry, Ukrainska Pravda reported that the former minister fell out of favor with the Presidential Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ex-minister's "experience as the deputy prime minister, the infrastructure minister, and head of Ukravtodor (the State Agency of Automobile Roads) is important and will help improve the supply and logistics in the Armed Forces," Umerov said on the Defense Ministry's Telegram channel. The appointment comes amid wide-ranging calls for military reforms as Ukraine's army is increasingly on the back foot in its war against Russia. Last week, Umerov announced a comprehensive review of the Ground Forces Command to evaluate management structures, processes, and compliance with legislation to support reforms and enhance battlefield effectiveness. Read also: Negative lesson Ground Forces chief acknowledges desertions, mismanagement in French-trained brigade Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. By Emma Farge GENEVA (Reuters) -The number of people executed in Iran rose to 901 last year, including 31 women, some of whom were convicted of murdering their husbands to fend off rape or after being forced into marriage, the U.N. human rights office said on Tuesday. Most of the executions were for drug-related offences, but political dissidents and people connected with mass protests in 2022 over the death in police custody of a 22-year-old woman were also among the victims, the U.N. statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is deeply disturbing that yet again we see an increase in the number of people subjected to the death penalty in Iran year-on-year," United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said in a statement sent to journalists. "It is high time Iran stemmed this ever-swelling tide of executions." In total, at least 901 people were executed by hanging last year in the Islamic Republic, compared with 853 in 2023, the U.N. rights office said. That represented the highest number since 2015, when 972 people were executed. Iran's diplomatic mission in Geneva did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the U.N. statement. The 2022 protests, which sparked some of the worst turmoil since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, followed the death in police detention of Kurdish Iranian woman Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for allegedly flouting Iran's mandatory dress code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 31 women were executed in 2024, U.N. rights office spokesperson Liz Throssell told reporters at a Geneva press briefing, representing what she said was the highest number in at least 15 years. "The majority of cases involved charges of murder. A significant number of the women were victims of domestic violence, child marriage or forced marriage," she added. One of the women executed for murder had killed her husband to prevent him from raping her daughter, Throssell told Reuters after the briefing. Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist who won election as Iran's president in July 2024, made promises during his campaign to better protect the rights of women and minorities. (Reporting by Emma Farge; editing by Mark Heinrich) PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) More than 5,600 people were reported killed in Haiti last year as a U.N.-backed mission led by Kenya struggles to contain rampant gang violence, officials said Tuesday. The number of killings increased by more than 20% compared with all of 2023, according to the U.N. Human Rights Office. In addition, more than 2,200 people were reported injured and nearly 1,500 kidnapped, it said. These figures alone cannot capture the absolute horrors being perpetrated in Haiti, but they show the unremitting violence to which people are being subjected, Volker Turk, U.N. high commissioner for human rights, said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the victims are two journalists and a police officer killed when gunmen opened fire on a crowd that gathered on Christmas Eve for the much-anticipated reopening of Haitis biggest public hospital, which gangs forced closed earlier this year. Overall, gang violence has left more than 700,000 Haitians homeless in recent years, with many crowding into makeshift and unsanitary shelters after gunmen razed their homes. I saw family members being murdered, and there was nothing I could do to save them, recalled Garry Joseph, 55, who now lives in an abandoned government office with hundreds of others who fled their neighborhoods. Everybody was running for their lives the night we had to leave. Last year's victims include more than 200 people killed in early December in a gang-controlled slum, many of them older Haitians, after a gang leader sought to avenge his sons death following Vodou rituals, according to the U.N. It was one of the biggest massacres reported in Port-au-Prince in recent history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its time for them to die, said Anita Jean-Marie of gang members. They've made peoples lives unbearable. The 49-year-old mother of two boys lives in an overcrowded shelter after gangs chased them out of their home: We don't know what they're fighting over. Among those killed last year are 315 suspected gang members or people associated with them who were lynched and more than 280 people killed by police in alleged summary executions, the U.N. said. It has long been clear that impunity for human rights violations and abuses, as well as corruption, remain prevalent in Haiti, Turk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called for more logistical and financial support for the U.N.-backed mission that began in early June as the U.S. and other countries called for a U.N. peacekeeping mission. About 400 police officers from Kenya are leading the mission and were joined days ago by some 150 military police officers from Central America, the majority from Guatemala. Jamaica, Bahamas and Belize have sent a handful of personnel, while other nations including Barbados, Bangladesh and Chad have pledged to do the same, but it isnt clear when they would be deployed. The number remains far below the 2,500 officers expected for the mission. In another blow to Haitis stability, Sunrise Airways announced Monday that it would temporarily suspend flights to and from the capital of Port-au-Prince, 85% of which is controlled by gangs. It did not provide a motive, saying only that the decision was based on circumstances out of its control, adding that the safety of passengers and crew members were a priority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That leaves the countrys main international airport without any commercial flights for the third time this year. There is nowhere you can go, Joseph said, noting that gangs also control all main roads entering and leaving Port-au-Prince and randomly open fire on public transport. Nobody is safe in this country, especially in Port-au-Prince. ... Everybody is just counting their days. In November, the airport in Port-au-Prince closed after gangs opened fire and struck three planes, including a Spirit Airlines plane that was mid-flight, injuring a flight attendant. While the airport has since reopened, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in December extended a ban on U.S. flights to Haitis capital until March 12 out of safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rony Jean-Bernard, a 30-year-old former moto taxi driver now living in a crowded shelter, said gang violence has forced him to rely on handouts. I'm living on bread and sugar most of the time, he said, noting that government officials stopped handing out free meals at his shelter about four months ago. Every day is like darkness, Bernard said. I cant see where life is taking me with this government in place that is making promises that things will get better. I hear that every day. As violence keeps surging, Turk called on all nations to halt deportations to Haiti. The acute insecurity and resulting human rights crisis in the country simply do not allow for the safe, dignified and sustainable return of Haitians. And yet, deportations are continuing," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden, some 27,800 Haitians were deported, according to Thomas Cartwright of Witness at the Border, an advocacy group that tracks flight data. Meanwhile, the neighboring Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, deported more than a quarter million of people to Haiti last year as part of an ongoing crackdown on migrants. ____ Associated Press reporter Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed. ____ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america Jan. 6University of New Hampshire Police Chief Paul Dean is leaving his post in Durham to become the director of citizen services for Gov.-elect Kelly Ayotte. Dean, 61, led the department for 14 years and served in law enforcement for nearly 40 years. His last day as chief will be Friday. Reached by email Monday, Dean said he's honored to continue his career in public service. In his new role, he'll be public face of Ayotte's community outreach team, which answers correspondence, phone calls and emails from constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The most enjoyable part of policing has been helping the public," he said. "Being able to continue that work in service of the state is exciting. I'm looking forward to connecting people to the services and resources they need, and identifying emerging community issues on behalf of the governor." Aaron Howell, UNH's executive vice president for finance and administration, informed faculty and staff of Dean's retirement Monday morning. "Throughout his tenure, Chief Dean has earned a national reputation as an innovative and collaborative public safety leader. Under his guidance, the department consistently upheld the highest standards of service and community engagement," Howell said in the announcement. Deputy Chief Steve Lee will be the interim chief. Lee has been with the UNH police for more than 20 years, becoming deputy chief in 2022. Lee has built strong relationships with the UNH community and surrounding towns, Howell said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In the coming weeks, I will collaborate with (President Elizabeth S. Chilton), Interim Chief Lee, leaders from the Town of Durham, and campus stakeholders to develop a position description for our next Chief of Police," Howell wrote. "We anticipate beginning the search later in the spring semester." A send-off for Dean is slated for this Friday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the solarium at Huddleston Hall, UNH officials said. Under Dean's direction, UNH police was accredited by both the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies and the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement, "a distinction achieved by only a select few agencies nationwide," Howell said. He also played a key role in the University System of New Hampshire's emergency management team during the COVID-19 pandemic and was committed to mental health training and community outreach, Howell said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Dean faced additional challenges on campus as UNH students protested the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian war. Students defaced Thompson Hall in May and disrupted a university trustees meeting in June. Ten UNH students were arrested after confrontations with police during the "May Day Rally for Palestine." Charges were later dropped for four students. A video surfaced on YouTube of a confrontation between Dean and protestors outside Thompson Hall. dpierce@unionleader.com BROOME COUNTY, NY (WIVT/WBGH) Students at Union Endicott learned about Italys version of Santa Claus, who is actually a mysterious witch who flies around on her broom. Every year, on Epiphany Eve, which is the night of January 5th, Italians celebrate a tradition similar to Santa, called La Befana. Today, students at Thomas Watson Elementary received a visit from Befana herself. Befana only spoke in Italian, but students from UEs Italian Club were there to translate and take questions from the kids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One member of Italian Club, Giada Cirsensi, says as legend has it, Befana was approached by the three wise men, and was asked to help them search for Jesus, but she declined, saying she had too much cleaning to do. She was visited by the three kings outside of her home one day, and they invited her to go join them to find Baby Jesus. But, she declined because she had too many things to do around the house. She was busy sweeping, cooking, all the chores. And, once they left, she felt bad, says Circensi. After a change of heart and still to this day, Befana flies around, looking for the Magi and Baby Jesus. Cirsensi says the witch delivers presents and candy to the good children all over the world, but if youre bad, you get ashes and coal. 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 WIVT - News 34. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WNTH) The University of New Haven is growing. The school recently bought a shopping center across the street from its West Haven campus. The plot includes 12 acres of land on Campbell Avenue. What has been a giant discount resale store and a supermarket is going to be a cutting-edge research and development center. University President Dr. Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., says it is just what businesses are looking for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Connecticut lawmakers prepare to tackle energy costs in 2025 legislative session What youre hearing from employers is that they want talent, but they want talent thats ready on day one to step in and really make an impact, Fredericksen said. In this new space, students will work directly with businesses on advanced manufacturing, robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and learn the business side before they get their degrees. I mean, if you sort of picture it almost as an intersection of academia and industry as a WeWork space where companies can come in and set up for several years as theyre working through a project, Fredericksen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nice thing about a big retail building is that there is lots of empty space to set up however the individual company wants. The university will make some changes to dress up the facade, and for now, it will allow McDonalds on the property to keep operating as a tenant. Producing graduates with real-world experience is not just good for future employers. As a college degree gets more and more expensive, students and their parents are looking for more of a return on their investment. It cant be that I graduate and that being the highlights and next thing you know Im sort of back on the couch wondering what was this four-year experience all about, Fredericksen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He thinks the University can continue to grow as long as students are getting an education that can become a career. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A freshman at the University of Mississippi was among those injured in the terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Years Day. Parker Vidrine, 18, was with a group of friends on Bourbon Street when he was hit by a truck driven by Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a family friend said. Fourteen people were killed, and about 35 were hurt in the attack. Jabbar, a U.S. citizen who had proclaimed his support for the Islamic State militant group, was fatally shot in a firefight with police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blakeney McGee said Vidrine was in the hospital for several days and at one point on a ventilator but is now back home. Vidrines mother shared a picture on Facebook of her son surrounded by friends and said the warmth of his friends had been more healing than she could put into words. The FBI says the man responsible for New Years truck attack visited New Orleans twice before McGee said the Baton Rouge teen faces a long road to recovery and has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover his medical expenses. One of Vidrines friends, University of Alabama Freshman Kareem Badawi, was also hit but did not survive his injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana Mayor Jeff Landry has called for a day of mourning for each of the 14 victims, and Monday recognized Badawi. Kareem Badawi. Courtesy: Gov. Jeff Landry University of Mississippi Chancellor Glenn Boyce released a statement about Vidrine following the terror attack. Boyce said he had spoken directly with the students mother to extend the universitys full support. I was deeply saddened to learn that one of our own students was critically injured in the violent attack in downtown New Orleans and is receiving medical care, said Boyce. We join the New Orleans community in grief. To donate to the GoFundMe for Vidrine, click right 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 WREG.com. On a porn set in Californias San Fernando Valley, a performer well call Jake explains why he joined the industry after dabbling in escorting. He says he was drawn to porn work because of the freedom he finds as an independent contractor. He works 10 to 15 hours a week on average and spends the rest of his time home with his wife and son. The best thing about his job, he says, is that he can leave any time he wants: I have nobody in charge of me. Jake in keeping with standard research practice in our field, weve referred to everyone in this article by pseudonyms is far from the only worker in his field who likes being his own boss. With the rise of subscription-based platforms such as OnlyFans in recent years, the porn industry has transformed into a hybrid labor market: Performers often produce their own content for online subscribers while also working for traditional studios. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across the country, near Detroit, a strikingly similar conversation takes place with a ride-hailing driver, Jamir. In contrast to traditional office workers, whom Jamir describes as being in a Matrix type of situation stuck to their jobs, stuck to their time, he views himself as seeing the whole world. Emphasizing the flexibility and earnings potential of driving, he says, If I need $1,000 in one week, I can get it. At a job, I couldnt do that without tons of overtime and approvals. While Jakes and Jamirs daily work is different, the incentives, risks and pressures of their jobs are surprisingly alike. We know this because, as a sociologist and an organizational theorist, weve spent years researching the porn industry and the ride-hailing industry, respectively. Weve studied OnlyFans and the studio-based porn industry, ride-hailing platforms such as Lyft and Uber, and other gig platforms, including TaskRabbit, Instacart and DoorDash. And by studying, we dont just mean the kind you do in the library. To pay homage to one of the forefathers of sociology, Robert Park, we got the seat of our pants dirty by directly speaking with, observing and even working alongside people like Jake and Jamir. Weve interviewed hundreds of workers and observed these industries up close, from helping film OnlyFans shoots in performers bedrooms to ferrying ride-hailing passengers around town. Dr. Lindsey Cameron worked as a driver as part of her research. Photo: Lindsey Cameron One of our most interesting findings is that porn performers and ride-hailing drivers often join their industry for the same reason: autonomy. While autonomy can have different meanings, for these workers it usually entails flexible scheduling, the ability to set their overall earnings and the freedom to turn down bad work offers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OnlyFans and other gig platforms promise autonomy for workers. An OnlyFans ad exhorts prospective creators to Earn money doing what you love while making use of our features and Set your own price, while Uber and Lyft ads entice drivers to Be your own boss and Earn money on your own schedule. But do these platforms make good on their promise? The illusion of worker autonomy When Jake is asked whether he has ever actually walked off a porn shoot, he admits that he hasnt. Similarly, Jamir concedes that he accepts basically any ride request and is here to make money. While Jake and Jamir could theoretically decline work or quit a gig, it would be a costly move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As independent contractors, both workers lack many of the protections of salaried employees; the next gig is never guaranteed. In the porn industry, where people move daily between different studio sets and independently produce shoots for OnlyFans, reputations spread through gossip. Declining or quitting a gig can damage a performers prospects. On other gig platforms, workers reputations are often rendered visible through ratings on apps that affect their likelihood of being matched to future gigs. Jake and Jamir face the same illusion of schedule flexibility: Theyve escaped the dreaded 9-to-5 and, as independent contractors, can ostensibly turn down any gig. But if they do, platforms and others involved in their work have mechanisms with which to punish them. First, like traditional gatekeepers such as agents and directors, gig platforms can blacklist workers by making them appear unavailable or less available for work. Platforms may downgrade those who decline rides or orders, assigning them to lower-paid or lower-quality matches. For example, Salvatore, a New York City driver, blames a ride-hailing company for robbing him of income by matching him only with rides going outside the city during high-demand times. On other gig platforms such as Upwork or TaskRabbit, the search engine algorithms can make these workers profiles less visible to customers. Workers often report feeling frustrated because they dont understand how the algorithms that manage them make decisions that affect their livelihoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OnlyFans draws an implicit contrast to these gig platforms and social media platforms in its marketing: OnlyFans has zero algorithms. Your fans see everything you post. But OnlyFans doesnt set porn performers free from algorithms. Due to its limited search function, performers must rely heavily on other social media platforms and their algorithms to drive traffic to their OnlyFans accounts. Nor are porn performers free from blacklisting. Porn performers who juggle work across OnlyFans and studios use agents for studio bookings. Performers frequently report that agents blacklist those who decline shoots or prove otherwise noncompliant by telling directors that the performer is unavailable to work on requested days. Second, gig platforms can deplatform workers by removing content and workers from their app. Ride-hailing drivers regularly complain of being blocked from the app while the company investigates customer complaints, which are often customer scams, and have little means of input, let alone recourse, in this process. (Asked about this issue, an Uber spokesman noted the company had recently taken steps to make its deactivation processes fairer.) Another driver, James, tells us that he was blocked without notice when the app notified him that a customer accused him of sexual misconduct. Three days of lost income later, after countless unanswered messages and unhelpful phone calls, he was reinstated. The platform said it had made an error, intending to flag another drivers account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OnlyFans may present itself as an ally to content creators, stating that it is unlike algorithmically mediated gig platforms, but it and other social media platforms similarly remove specific content and content creators who supposedly violate policies regarding explicit and obscene content, often providing vague reasons for doing so. In extreme cases, platforms can deplatform entire classes of workers. In 2021, OnlyFans notoriously announced that it was removing all pornographic accounts in what was widely seen as an attempt to convert the platform to a mainstream social media company. After widespread backlash from its content creators, the company reversed this decision five days later. Citing the scare, Sasha, a porn performer whose earnings of over US$400,000 per year put her in the top 1% of OnlyFans content creators, says, I realized I shouldnt put my eggs all in one basket. She tried to reduce her financial dependence on OnlyFans by making accounts on competitor platforms, such as Fansly, which marketed itself as a porn-worker-friendly alternative. But Sasha estimates that over 90% of her income still comes from OnlyFans, while her Fansly earnings peaked at around 3%. OnlyFans monopoly over subscription-based porn platforms leaves even performers like Sasha, who have found lucrative earnings on the platform, in a precarious position. Platforms can further marginalize workers The unfulfilled promise of autonomy affects the most marginalized and vulnerable members of the workforce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the ride-hailing industry, drivers are often men of color, many of them first-generation immigrants. Dependent on the platforms income, and with limited outside options, these workers are more hesitant to make waves and challenge the platforms authority, even if they could navigate the byzantine call-center trees and robo-support messages. Similarly, in the porn industry, female performers are especially vulnerable to the risks of being blacklisted or deplatformed. Porn consumers, most of whom identify as heterosexual men, view male performers as mere props for a scene, yet demand a constant turnover of fresh faces of female performers. We found that this means male performers can work more often for the same studio and rely less on agents for networking. In contrast, female performers see agents as essential to gaining connections to new studios. Female performers can become less dependent on their agents by simultaneously creating content on OnlyFans. But in doing so, they become more dependent on a platform that is liable to make capricious and arbitrarily enforced policies concerning acceptable content. Our immersion in the porn and ride-hailing industries brought us to a Kafkaesque conclusion: Workers join these labor markets to escape the man, only to find the man replaced by the often opaque logic of platforms and their algorithms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lindsey Cameron has served as an expert witness in several cases involving ride-hailing companies and has testified twice before the Pennsylvania State Senate about the gig economy and the ride-hailing industry. While she has represented the plaintiffs in cases where ride-hailing companies were the defendants, her role is not to advocate for or against any company; rather, she analyzes evidence and provides arguments regarding platforms, algorithmic management and control. As part of her research, she drove for a ride-hailing company and took rides as a consumer. Hannah Wohl 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. Jan. 6A significant number of new leaders have taken over the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in recent months. In addition to replacing the top executive of the UNM Health System, the medical school has welcomed new chairs of Neurosurgery, Surgery, Family and Community Medicine and Emergency Medicine all in the last five months. Dr. Michael Richards is the interim-executive director of the entire health system after he replaced Dr. Douglas Ziedonis in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The week UNM President Garnett Stokes removed Ziedonis from his position, she said the health system needed to pivot. Stokes said the university needed to add hospital staff and expand the medical school. She said the hospital is expecting a significant increase in hospital admissions in the future. "I am enthusiastic to share good news that we are recruiting and promoting strong leadership at the UNM School of Medicine," Dr. Patricia Finn, the dean of the UNM School of Medicine, said in a statement to the Journal. "Our commitment is (to) provide extraordinary health care. With fresh perspectives, we can reimagine our approach to patient care, discovery and education, fostering a collaborative spirit among faculty, students, staff and trainees. "Our new leaders will also be instrumental (at) growing our programs so that we can expand the health care workforce in New Mexico to meet the health needs of our people now and into the future." Dr. Griffith Harsh took over as chair of neurosurgery at the start of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family and Community Medicine Dr. Jennifer Edgoose started as chair for Family and Community Medicine on Aug. 1. She previously worked at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, where she was the executive vice chair and vice chair in the Department of Medicine and Community Health. She earned her medical degree and master's of public health from Columbia University and completed her residency in family medicine at the University of Washington. She was the lead editor of the American Academy of Family Physicians' Health Equity Curricular Toolkit. She also served on the Health Equity Team for Family Medicine for America's Health, an effort to address disparities in primary care, and has received numerous national awards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Department of Surgery Dr. Sharmila Dissanaike started as chair of the Department of Surgery on Aug. 12. She has experience in active trauma, burn and acute care surgeries and has written more than 150 peer-reviewed articles and textbook chapters. Prior to joining UNM, she worked at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas, where she was a chair and professor. She's held several national leadership roles, including president of the Southwest Surgical Congress and governor of the American College of Surgeons. She has served on the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education residency review committee for surgery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency Medicine After serving as the interim chair for two years, Dr. Diane Rimple was recently named the permanent chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the UNM School of Medicine. She started Aug. 15. Rimple started college at Oberlin College studying Chinese language and literature and then transitioned to the medical field. She earned her medical degree from Penn Medicine. She has been at UNM since 2001. "Throughout her tenure as interim Chair, Dr. Rimple has showcased her dedication to medical education and emergency care," Finn said in a memo announcing Rimple's appointment. "She has been instrumental in advancing the department's initiatives, including preparing for the new Critical Care Tower." Frank Richards, president of the Alaska Gasline Development Corp., speaks at a Jan. 6, 2025, news conference held in Anchorage by Gov. Mike Dunleavy. Dunleavy is standing behind him. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The state-owned corporation in charge of developing a trans-Alaska natural gas pipeline said Monday that it is in secret negotiations with an energy company to lead and fund the project. The pipeline and associated infrastructure is expected to cost at least $44 billion, and that cost has been an insurmountable hurdle for a project that has been discussed for more than 50 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frank Richards, head of the Alaska Gasline Development Corp., declined on Monday to share any details of the potential agreement, including the name of the states partner. Im announcing that AGDC has reached an exclusive framework agreement with a qualified energy company to privately lead and fund the development of the Alaska LNG project, he said at a news conference. I expect a formal announcement of the definitive agreements in the next few months, Richards said. Gov. Mike Dunleavy, speaking at the conference, said he has previously been skeptical about the gas line but now believes actual progress is being made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A large gas line has been challenged for decades the cost, the size, the engineering, you name it, Dunleavy said. But there has been significant movement in a positive direction, not just theoretical, but actual, significant movement. Last year, AGDC suggested that it could instead seek to build a smaller pipeline for in-state use, but on Monday, Richards said the proposed energy company deal includes an export facility, signaling that it involves the larger plan. Dunleavy said the pipeline is a long-term solution for a looming energy crunch in Southcentral Alaska, and that the region will face a bumpy few years in the meantime. In 2023, state legislators were warned that Southcentral Alaska may run short of available natural gas by the end of the decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the region has extensive natural gas deposits, development has been slow, and local utilities are considering plans to import gas, an act that would sharply increase heating and electricity prices for Alaskans in the region. Dunleavy said he intends to introduce legislation this year that will incentivize gas production in Cook Inlet. The state Legislature approved incentives during an almost identical gas-shortage crisis a decade ago, but lawmakers later repealed those incentives because of their billion-dollar cost. That cost, coupled with the states worsening long-term finances, has made legislators reluctant to repeat their prior acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, legislators considered but did not pass financial incentives for new drilling. Theyve also grown skeptical of AGDC itself, with some legislators proposing to eliminate a corporation that has failed to deliver on its core goal. At Mondays news conference, Dunleavy noted that because Alaska is so large, one energy source alone will not be sufficient to meet the states needs. Hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, solar, coal and nuclear power are all options for the state, he said. Alaska has all of it, but we have got to agree that were done talking about the theoretical and now we have to make sure that we put things into reality, Dunleavy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have no doubt the large line will be disparaged or questioned. I questioned it for years, to be perfectly honest with you, he said, but theres some real, concrete steps going forward and I think were entering a phase of reality for this pipeline. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) As the country honors the life of President Jimmy Carter, he is being remembered for his decades-long work with Habitat for Humanity. The Carters got involved with Habitat in March of 1984 by visiting Americus, Georgia, which is where Habitat was founded, Tamara Dourney, the executive director of Pickens County Habitat for Humanity, said. They quickly realized that their values aligned with the values of the organization. From there, they wanted to be more involved. President Carter and First Lady Rosalynn started the Carter Work Project where they traveled the world building homes for people in need. According to Habitat for Humanity, the couple built, renovated and repaired 4,447 homes in 14 countries. Their impact is felt across the Upstate of South Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Generally, every person in Habitat has had the opportunity to be impacted by President Carter, his words, his books and by the inspiration he has provided for us, Dourney said. To the very end, we have all benefited. The work that Habitat does cannot be done by the organization alone, Raymond Davis, the executive director of Habitat of Humanity of Spartanburg, said. It is the communitys effort, and the community effort is driven by someone who demonstrates loyalty, dedication and commitment to this mission. President Carter demonstrated that in amazing ways. Dourney said Pickens County Habitat for Humanity is on track to build three or four homes this year. A home they are building in Easley is nearly complete. Its amazing to see that this house that were standing in right now is only possible because people in Pickens County donated money to pay for the materials and time to actually come and build the house, she said. Its phenomenal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dourney said the Carters impact will continue to be felt throughout Habitat for Humanity for generations to come. We will see the Carter Work Project continue as long as Habitat for Humanity continues, she 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 WSPA 7NEWS. The US Defense Department has added Chinese tech companies Tencent, a social media and gaming giant, and CATL, the worlds largest battery maker, to a list of firms that it alleges work with Chinas military. Inclusion on the Pentagon list does not result in any immediate sanctions, but it could affect the reputations of the companies named and hinder their commercial progress, particularly if they want to do business in the United States. Shares in Tencent, which owns Chinese super-app WeChat, were 6.5% lower in Hong Kong on Tuesday, while CATLs Shenzhen-listed shares lost more than 3%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They join dozens of other alleged Chinese military companies on the list that the Defense Department alleges operate directly or indirectly in the US, according to a notice posted to the Federal Register on Monday. The Pentagon has said the so-called 1260H list, which is updated annually, is an important continuing effort in highlighting and countering Chinas military-civil fusion strategy, a goal to develop the most technologically advanced military in the world by eliminating barriers between the countrys civilian research and commercial sectors and its armed forces. In a statement to CNN, Tencent called its inclusion on the list a mistake. We are not a military company or supplier. Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business. We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defense to address any misunderstanding, a spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN has reached out to CATL, which supplies batteries to Tesla and plans to provide its knowledge and services to Ford to make lithium-ion batteries at a plant in Michigan, for comment. CATL is the world's top EV battery maker. - Qilai Shen/Bloomberg/Getty Images A tech rivalry between Washington and Beijing has been escalating ahead of the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump later this month. Last week, Beijing said it was planning to curb the export of technology used to extract minerals critical for the growth of the global electric vehicle (EV) industry. In December, the outgoing Biden administration imposed fresh export controls on US-made semiconductors that Washington fears Beijing could use to make the next generation of weapons and artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The US Commerce Department said the goal of the curbs was to slow Chinas development of advanced AI tools that can be used in war and to undercut the countrys homegrown semiconductor industry, which it says threatens the national security of the US and its allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since coming to power in late 2012, Chinas top leader Xi Jinping has unleashed sweeping reforms to transform the Chinese military into a world-class fighting force. A key part of that modernization drive has been to better integrate the countrys private sector and defense industrial base through the sharing of resources, talent and cutting-edge technologies. While efforts to break down barriers between Chinas military and civil sectors date back to the 1990s, the military-civil fusion strategy has been increasingly promoted under Xi and elevated to a national strategy in 2014, as part of the leaders vision to turn China into an economic, technological and military superpower. CNNs Hassan Tayir contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The US Department of Defense has added Chinese tech companies Tencent, a social media and gaming giant, and CATL, the worlds largest battery maker, to a list of firms that it alleges work with Chinas military. Inclusion on the Pentagon list does not result in any immediate sanctions, but it could affect the reputations of the companies named and hinder their commercial progress, particularly if they want to do business in the United States. Shares in Tencent, which owns Chinese super-app WeChat, were 6.5% lower in Hong Kong on Tuesday, while CATLs Shenzhen-listed shares lost more than 3%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They join dozens of other alleged Chinese military companies on the list that the Defense Department alleges operate directly or indirectly in the US, according to a notice posted to the Federal Register on Monday. The Pentagon has said the so-called 1260H list, which is updated annually, is an important continuing effort in highlighting and countering Chinas military-civil fusion strategy, a goal to develop the most technologically advanced military in the world by eliminating barriers between the countrys civilian research and commercial sectors and its armed forces. In a statement to CNN, Tencent called its inclusion on the list a mistake. We are not a military company or supplier. Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business. We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defense to address any misunderstanding, a spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CATL, which supplies batteries to Tesla and plans to provide its knowledge and services to Ford to make lithium-ion batteries at a plant in Michigan, said in a statement that it has never engaged in any military-related business or activities, so this designation by the Department of Defense is a mistake. We will proactively engage with DoD to address the false designation, including legal action if necessary, it added. CATL is the world's top EV battery maker. - Qilai Shen/Bloomberg/Getty Images A tech rivalry between Washington and Beijing has been escalating ahead of the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump later this month. Last week, Beijing said it was planning to curb the export of technology used to extract minerals critical for the growth of the global electric vehicle (EV) industry. In December, the outgoing Biden administration imposed fresh export controls on US-made semiconductors that Washington fears Beijing could use to make the next generation of weapons and artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US Commerce Department said the goal of the curbs was to slow Chinas development of advanced AI tools that can be used in war and to undercut the countrys homegrown semiconductor industry, which it says threatens the national security of the US and its allies. Breaking down barriers Since coming to power in late 2012, Chinas top leader Xi Jinping has unleashed sweeping reforms to transform the Chinese military into a world-class fighting force. A key part of that modernization drive has been to better integrate the countrys private sector and defense industrial base through the sharing of resources, talent and cutting-edge technologies. While efforts to break down barriers between Chinas military and civil sectors date back to the 1990s, the military-civil fusion strategy has been increasingly promoted under Xi and elevated to a national strategy in 2014, as part of the leaders vision to turn China into an economic, technological and military superpower. The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) is radically different from the US military, because it is the armed wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), said Isaac Stone Fish, CEO and founder of Strategy Risks, a business intelligence firm with a focus on China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing demands that its companies support the PLA, he said. US companies that have important partnerships with large Chinese companies, like Ford with CATL, need to understand that the regulatory, economic, and PR risks of these partnerships will continue to grow. Ivan Su, a senior equity analyst at Morningstar, said that given Tencents business model, which focuses on social media and gaming, it has a good chance to secure exclusion through US courts, like Chinese consumer electronics maker Xiaomi managed to do in 2021 in a separate case. In January 2021, during the waning days of the first Trump administration, the Defense Department added Xiaomi to another list, under Section 1237, which subjected it to harsh restrictions, including a ban on American investment. Before the ban could take effect, a federal judge granted a temporary reprieve to the Chinese company by ruling that Washington lacked substantial evidence to support its claim that Xiaomi is owned or controlled by Chinas military. In May of that year, the US Department of Defense and Xiaomi reached an agreement to set aside the ban. CNNs Hassan Tayir contributed reporting. This story has been updated with additional information. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Pentagon has added five Chinese companies including Shenzhen-based tech giant Tencent and the world's biggest battery maker CATL to a list of mainland firms that Washington believes pose threats to US national security. The new additions include chipmaker ChangXin Memory Technologies Inc, Quectel Wireless and drone-maker Autel Robotics, according to a document on the Federal Register that is to be published on Tuesday. The move expanded the Pentagon's list of Chinese military companies to 134, including 57 entities and their subsidiaries. The designation forms part of Washington's efforts to counter Beijing's military-civil fusion strategy. 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. As mandated by the Defence Authorisation Act of 1999, the Pentagon must publish a list of companies linked to the People's Liberation Army. But it was not until June 2020 that the first formal list of 20 Chinese military companies, including telecoms giant Huawei Technologies, was published. Signed into law on January 1, 2021, the NDAA for fiscal year 2021 required the Pentagon to annually update and publish the list of "Chinese military companies". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike export controls or sanctions, the designation has no legal ramifications, but it could damage the reputation of those listed and could heap pressure on the Treasury Department to impose sanctions on the companies. In response, the Chinese embassy in Washington on Monday said China "firmly" opposed the move, calling it "unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies, and the disruption of normal Sino-US economic and trade cooperation". The Pentagon's blacklist would "undermine the confidence of foreign companies in investing and operating in the United States and damage the interests of American companies and investors, which will eventually backfire on itself," according to Liu Pengyu, its spokesman, in a statement to the Post. "We urge the US to immediately correct the above discriminatory practices and provide a fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies to operate," he said. "China will continue to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its own companies." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Tencent described its inclusion in the list as "clearly a mistake". "We are not a military company or supplier," the spokesperson said. "Unlike sanctions or export controls, this listing has no impact on our business. We will nonetheless work with the Department of Defence to address any misunderstanding." Meanwhile, a Quectel spokesperson said its 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". A production facility for CATL, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co, in Ningde, Fujian province. Photo: Reuters alt=A production facility for CATL, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co, in Ningde, Fujian province. Photo: Reuters> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CATL called its designation "a mistake", saying the "privately founded" company "is not engaged in any military-related activities". "We welcome responsible discourse on our business operations and take questions about our business seriously," its spokesman added. The other companies new to the list did not immediately respond to requests for comment, nor did the Chinese embassy in Washington. Amid an intensifying Sino-American rivalry, US lawmakers have pushed the Pentagon to add more companies to the list. The latest development coincides with tit-for-tat measures taken by Beijing and Washington over national security, including trade restrictions, investment bans, sanctions on officials and companies as well as greater scrutiny of technology transfers and supply-chain dependencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Friday, the US Commerce Department said 11 Chinese entities including companies and research labs would be sanctioned over their support of China's military modernisation. And last week, the Biden administration said it was considering a new rule that could ban Chinese-made drones in the US owing to national-security concerns. Under the last list, drone-maker DJI and lidar-maker Hesai Technologies, both sued the Pentagon last year over their designations, but remain on the updated roll. The Pentagon also removed six companies it said no longer met the requirements for the designation. They include AI firm Beijing Megvii Technology Co, China Railway Construction Corporation, China State Construction Group Co Ltd and China Telecommunications Corporation Ltd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional reporting by Reuters 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. The outgoing administration of US President Joe Biden plans to announce its final military aid package for Ukraine on Thursday, 9 January, which is expected to be "substantial". Source: Associated Press, citing two US officials, as reported by European Pravda Details: The official announcement of the US military aid package will coincide with the meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, also known as the Ramstein format. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The AP sources did not specify the package's exact value, but indicated it would be significant. However, it seems unlikely that the remaining US$4 billion in funding authorised by Congress to the White House for Ukraine will be exhausted. Officials stated that more than US$2 billion will likely be left for Donald Trump's future administration to manage. Background: On 30 December, the US announced a nearly US$2.5 billion defence aid package for Ukraine. This included US$1.25 billion worth of weapons and equipment from Pentagon stockpiles and US$1.22 billion allocated for new weaponry orders under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). Since the start of Russias full-scale invasion in 2022, the total amount of US military aid to Ukraine has reached US$66 billion. Support UP or become our patron! US cloud computing and cybersecurity firm Akamai Technologies' content delivery network (CDN) services in mainland China will cease from the second half of next year, the company said in a recent letter to customers, becoming the latest foreign tech firm to scale back operations in the country amid geopolitical headwinds. "Effective June 30, 2026, all China CDN services will reach their decommission date," the Akamai letter said. "After this date, any remaining content requests will be automatically served from neighbouring countries, unless a country-specific partner solution is activated." The Cambridge, Massachusetts-based company said it has struck partnerships with Tencent Holdings' cloud services unit and Wangsu Science & Technology as mainland CDN providers "to ensure a smooth and efficient transition" for customers. 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. That means Akamai is now reselling the CDN and security offerings of Tencent Cloud and Wangsu within mainland China ahead of the announced deactivation date, ending the two-decade run of that business in the world's second-largest economy. "All current China CDN customers must complete the transition to our partners' solution by June 30, 2026, to maintain uninterrupted service," Akamai said. The US firm assured customers that it is "actively collaborating with Wangsu to develop comprehensive migration and ongoing support offerings". Akamai Technologies' headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Photo: Akamai alt=Akamai Technologies' headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Photo: Akamai> Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US company's retreat from CDN operations in China follows a broader trend of global tech firms scaling back their operations in the country amid the market's push for greater tech self-sufficiency. IBM, for example, last year closed its China Development Lab and China Systems Lab, while laying off more than 1,000 employees in cities including Beijing, Shanghai and the northern port city of Dalian, according to reports by local news outlets. Sweeping job cuts last year also affected various China-based workers of multinational companies, from Swedish telecommunications equipment manufacturer Ericsson and electric vehicle maker Tesla to e-commerce behemoth Amazon.com and semiconductor firm Intel. In its letter to customers, Akamai neither provided a reason for closing its CDN services on the mainland nor an explanation for the year-and-a-half-long transition by its enterprise customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To clarify, Akamai is transitioning its mainland China CDN delivery solution for multinational companies doing business in the country to local partners," a company representative said on Tuesday. "Akamai continues to be committed to China and is not exiting China. The Chinese market is important to Akamai and we have always been the trusted partner to both large and small companies in China." Akamai's network operations command centre in the United States. Photo: Akamai alt=Akamai's network operations command centre in the United States. Photo: Akamai> "We continue to operate in and support businesses in China, and comply with regulations and laws of the countries we operate," the representative added. "Akamai is a partner for companies in China going overseas, and we have a rich heritage we can rely on to support our customers and partners." Akamai chief executive Tom Leighton said in an earlier statement that the company's CDN business, which accounts for a third of its revenue, faces challenges owing to "macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cloud computing technology enables enterprises to manage or distribute over the internet a range of software and other digital resources as an on-demand service, just like electricity from a power grid. These resources are stored inside data centres. CDN services rely on caching online content - including web pages, images and video - in data centres near a customer's physical location, which speeds up the access and secure delivery of such content. Akamai, which handles up to 30 per cent of global web traffic, currently has a substantial presence in China, with large clients that include short-video platform operator Kuaishou Technology and mainland video-streaming giant iQiyi. 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. McDonalds joins a growing list of companies that are pulling back on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Like others before it, the fast-food chain cites a U.S. Supreme Court decision in July 2023 that outlawed affirmative action in college admissions. Conservative activists have gone after companies both in the courts and on social media seeking to set a similar precedent in the working world. Theyve been targeting workplace initiatives such as diversity programs and hiring practices that prioritize historically marginalized groups, and have widened their objections to include programs focused on gender identity and sexual orientation. DEI policies typically are intended as a counterweight to discriminatory practices. Critics argue that education, government and business programs which single out participants based on factors such as race, gender and sexual orientation are unfair and the same opportunities should be afforded to everyone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDonalds said Monday that it would retire specific goals for achieving diversity at senior leadership levels and end a program that encourages its suppliers to develop diversity training. The companys diversity team will be renamed the Global Inclusion Team. The Chicago burger giant says it remains committed to inclusion and believes a diverse workforce is a competitive advantage. Here's a look at some of the other companies that have retreated from DEI: Walmart The worlds largest retailer confirmed in November that it would not be renewing a five-year commitment for an equity racial center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd, and that it would stop participating in the Human Rights Campaigns annual benchmark index measuring workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walmart also said it will better monitor its third-party marketplace to make sure items sold there do not include products aimed at LGBTQ+ minors, including chest binders intended for transgender youth. Additionally, the company will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts and it wont be gathering demographic data when determining financing eligibility for those grants. Ford CEO Jim Farley sent a memo to the automaker's employees in August outlining changes to the company's DEI policies, including a decision to stop taking part in HRC's Corporate Equality Index. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ford, he wrote, had been looking at its policies for a year. The company doesnt use hiring quotas or tie compensation to specific diversity goals but remained committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace, Farley said. We will continue to put our effort and resources into taking care of our customers, our team, and our communities versus publicly commenting on the many polarizing issues of the day, the memo said. Lowe's In August, Lowe's executive leadership said the company began reviewing its programs following the Supreme Courts affirmative action ruling and decided to combine its employee resource groups into one umbrella organization. Previously, the company had individual groups representing diverse sections of our associate population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The retailer also will no longer participate in the HRC index, and will stop sponsoring and participating in events, such as festivals and parades, that are outside of its business areas. John Deere The farm equipment maker said in July that it will no longer sponsor social or cultural awareness events, and that it would audit all training materials to ensure the absence of socially-motivated messages in compliance with federal and local laws. Moline, Illinois-based John Deere added the existence of diversity quotas and pronoun identification have never been and are not company policy. But it noted that it would still continue to track and advance the diversity of the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tractor Supply The retailer in June said it was ending an array of corporate diversity and climate efforts, a move that came after weeks of online conservative backlash against the rural retailer. Tractor Supply said it would be eliminating all of its DEI roles while retiring current DEI goals. The company added that it would stop sponsoring non-business activities such as Pride festivals or voting campaigns and no longer submit data for the HRC index. The Brentwood, Tennessee-based company, which sells products ranging from farming equipment to pet supplies, also said that it would withdraw from its carbon emission goals to instead focus on our land and water conservation efforts. The National Black Farmers Association called on Tractor Supplys president and CEO to step down shortly after the company's announcement. The Biden administration on Tuesday sanctioned the top general of Sudans Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and determined the paramilitary group has committed genocide in the country, as well as crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing. While the U.S. sanctions target the RSF, it also accuses the opposition Sudanese Armed Forces of committing war crimes and described the nearly nine months of fighting across the country as a conflict of unmitigated brutality that has caused the worlds largest humanitarian catastrophe. The RSF and allied militias have systematically murdered men and boys even infants on an ethnic basis, and deliberately targeted women and girls from certain ethnic groups for rape and other forms of brutal sexual violence, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those same militias have targeted fleeing civilians, murdering innocent people escaping conflict, and prevented remaining civilians from accessing lifesaving supplies. Based on this information, I have now concluded that members of the RSF and allied militias have committed genocide in Sudan. The U.S. issued sanctions against the RSFs top general, Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, known as Hemedti, for his role in systematic atrocities committed against the Sudanese people. Hemedti was also sanctioned for involvement in gross violations of human rights in Darfur, namely the mass rape of civilians by RSF soldiers under his control. Under the sanctions, Hemedti and his immediate family members are ineligible to enter the U.S. Sanctions were also imposed on seven RSF-owned companies located in the United Arab Emirates and one individual for their roles in procuring weapons for the paramilitary forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The actions by the Biden administration are part of an eleventh-hour push to address the war in Sudan, which has fallen in priority on the global stage behind efforts to address Russias war in Ukraine and Israels war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and broader conflicts in the Middle East. The war in Sudan broke out in April 2023 between Hemedti and his RSF forces against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) led by Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. It has spiraled into one of the worlds worst humanitarian crises, with 638,000 Sudanese experiencing famine, 30 million in need of humanitarian assistance and tens of thousands dead, according to the State Department. Blinken said despite the sanctions targeting Hemedti and the RSF, the U.S. neither supports nor favors the SAF. Both belligerents bear responsibility for the violence and suffering in Sudan and lack the legitimacy to govern a future peaceful Sudan, he 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 The Hill. The US on Monday eased some restrictions on Syria's government to allow for humanitarian aid. The US Treasury had issued a sanctions exemption for six months to "support the Syrian people as they build a more hopeful, secure, and peaceful future," it said in a statement. In December, Syria's new de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, led a surprise rebel advance that toppled Bashar al-Assad after more than two decades in power, prompting the former president to flee to Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo said the end of al-Assad's "brutal and repressive rule, backed by Russia and Iran," provided a unique opportunity for Syria and its people to rebuild. "During this period of transition, Treasury will continue to support humanitarian assistance and responsible governance in Syria." The action does not remove any sanctions but will ensure they "do not impede activities to meet basic human needs, including the provision of public services or humanitarian assistance," Treasury said. A large drop in the fall harvest of a holiday food staple resulted in a price spike as demand exceeded supply. What's happening? During December, many people are on the hunt for holiday food staples such as turkey, ham, and pumpkin pie. Many delicious dishes served during this time of year feature one food staple that has several proven health benefits. Walnuts are a cooking necessity for many of us, especially over the holidays but this year, they are taking a bigger bite out of grocery bills. California's walnut crop was down nearly a third compared to 2023's harvest, and last year had a record drop of its own. "We finished quickly because statewide, the crop is down 28 to 30% over last year," Carriere Family Farm's Bill Carriere said, per FreshPlaza.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As an industry, we didn't see this sharp drop coming," Carriere said. "At first, we didn't believe production would be down that much. However, a few weeks into harvest, we realized it was going to be even lower than the survey's estimate." According to California Agricultural Production Statistics, crop volume dropped from 824,000 tons in 2023 to 670,000 tons in 2024. Industry experts think the overheating climate contributed to the drop in production this year. January through November in California was the sixth-warmest on record for the state, which endured multiple heat waves that set record temperatures. Why is a significant reduction in California's walnut crop important? A reduction in available walnuts coupled with demand exceeding supply has driven the price of the California-grown nut higher. California's walnuts are considered to be high quality; one of the state's main competitors, China, produces bigger and cheaper nuts. California is the country's leading producer of walnuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The economic importance of walnuts in California is crucial in the state's agricultural sector and contributes significantly to the local economy," according to the State Water Resources Control Board's Division of Financial Assistance. "In fact, the state contributes nearly 99% of the country's total walnut production and over 30% of the world's supply." What's being done about our warming world's impact on food staples such as walnuts? The overheating planet is part of the reason researchers recently warned that basic food staple prices are projected to skyrocket in the next decade. Pennsylvania's potato crops are one example of the threat our warming world poses to food supplies. The number of nights per year that are too hot for potato crops has risen from 35 to closer to 50. What is the biggest reason you don't grow food at home? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind Advances in technology offer hope that we can protect at least some staple crops from the harsh impacts of Earth's rising temperature. Scientists have identified chickpeas as a drought-resilient, sustainable crop with the potential to bolster food security amid the shifting climate. Breakthroughs in research will help, but the ultimate solution involves turning away from dirty energy sources and embracing cleaner alternatives such as solar and wind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The Pentagon's decision to place five more Chinese companies, including tech giant Tencent, on a list of firms that it says help the Chinese military is "overstretching the concept of national security", Beijing said on Tuesday, while urging Washington to "immediately correct its wrongdoings". China stands firmly against "the US practice of overstretching the concept of national security, making discriminatory lists in various names, and going after Chinese companies to contain China's high-quality development", foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday. "The Chinese people's rights to development are not to be deprived of or ignored," he said. 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. "We urge the US to immediately correct its wrongdoings and end the illegal unilateral sanctions and its long-arm jurisdiction on Chinese companies. China will take all measures necessary to firmly defend the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and uphold its legitimate rights to development." The remarks came a day after the US Department of Defence added Chinese tech giants, including gaming and social media giant Tencent and CATL, the world's biggest battery maker, to a list of firms it alleges work with the Chinese military and threaten US security. The other additions are chipmaker ChangXin Memory Technologies, Quectel Wireless and drone-maker Autel Robotics, according to a document on the Federal Register. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The additions would bring the number of Chinese "military companies" on the Pentagon list to 134, including 57 entities and their subsidiaries. The designation forms part of Washington's efforts to counter Beijing's so-called military-civil fusion strategy. It has no legal ramifications but could damage the reputation of the firms listed and put pressure on the US Treasury Department to impose sanctions. The Chinese embassy in Washington "firmly" opposed the Pentagon move, calling it an "unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies, and the disruption of normal Sino-US economic and trade cooperation". Embassy spokesman Liu Pengyu said in a statement to the South China Morning Post that the Pentagon's blacklist would "undermine the confidence of foreign companies in investing and operating in the United States and damage the interests of American companies and investors, which will eventually backfire". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We urge the US to immediately correct the above discriminatory practices and provide a fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies to operate," Lin added. A spokesman for Tencent described its inclusion in the list as "clearly a mistake". "We are not a military company or supplier." 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. The US House select committee focused on countering the economic, technological and security threats Beijing might pose has been renewed for two years, with all signs pointing to continuity in its leadership and tough-on-China rhetoric and mission. The committee was reauthorised late on Friday, with language expanding its scope to cover Beijing's threat to US allies and partners, as part of a large rules package that also included a special taxation provision for Taiwanese residents who receive income from US-based sources. "The Chinese Communist Party represents an unprecedented challenge to our economy, our national security, and our values, and we will continue to meet it with the urgency this moment demands," its leaders, chairman John Moolenaar, a Michigan Republican, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, Democrat of Illinois, said on Monday. 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 committee's renewal was expected, with leaders from both parties signalling their support in the months before its expiration. The initial creation of the panel, whose full name is the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, was in January 2023 - a project of then-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and a reflection of the bipartisan consensus that China was a challenge to be tackled. But as a "select" rather than a standing committee, it needs to be reauthorised at the start of each new Congress, which lasts for two years. It is also an advisory panel, intended to investigate, hold hearings and make policy recommendations, not advance legislation - though individual members can introduce bills and resolutions for consideration by other committees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the rules the House of Representatives approved on Friday, the committee must submit any reports and policy recommendations to standing committees by December 31, 2026. "The Chinese Communist Party represents an unprecedented challenge to our economy, our national security and our values," said Representative John Moolenaar, chairman of the House select committee on China. Photo: EPA-EFE alt="The Chinese Communist Party represents an unprecedented challenge to our economy, our national security and our values," said Representative John Moolenaar, chairman of the House select committee on China. Photo: EPA-EFE> Additionally, its investigative jurisdiction has been formally expanded to focus on the threats of the Chinese Communist Party to both the US and US allies and partners. The new rules also add "ideological threats" Beijing poses as an area for review, alongside the economic, technological, and security challenges from China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several committee members are not returning, including its high-profile former chair, Representative Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, who resigned from Congress in April. Democrat Andy Kim of New Jersey and Republican Jim Banks of Indiana have been elected to seats in the Senate, while Michelle Steel, a California Republican, lost her bid for re-election in November. The committee's rules allow for no more than 24 members. Replacements for newly departed members have yet to be announced. Since its inception, the committee has taken on a wide set of issues, from combating tariff evasion by Chinese companies to increasing scrutiny of Sino-American academic partnerships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bill supported by the committee forcing China-based ByteDance to divest short video app TikTok became law in April; other pieces of legislation it championed advanced in the House but failed to become law, including one that would have restricted the federal government from contracting with five Chinese biotech firms involved in the US medical supply chain. The committee has drawn both criticism and support since its establishment. Supporters commend its role as a convening body for ideas to counter Beijing and for spotlighting the need to overhaul the rules of bilateral engagement that have governed US-China relations since China's accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001. "Good for America. Bad for the CCP," wrote Michael Sobolik, a senior fellow at the conservative Hudson Institute, posted on X, reacting to the committee's renewal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Good for America. Bad for the CCP. A huge testament to the work of this committee over the past two years. https://t.co/hGydlMZzGD - Michael Sobolik (@michaelsobolik) January 4, 2025 Critics have condemned the panel for stoking fears of a US-China war, pushing a simplistic, zero-sum view and fuelling anti-Asian hate. In December, more than 50 civil society organisations, led by Asian-American groups, sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries expressing opposition to the committee's reauthorisation. "The House is already well equipped to address PRC-related concerns without reauthorising the Select Committee," they wrote, noting that its areas of interest fell within the domain of permanent congressional committees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Instead of reauthorising a committee that perpetuates a harmful, zero-sum and adversarial framework and pours more fuel on existing racial animus, the House should redirect much-needed resources elsewhere," they 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. NEW YORK (AP) U.S. regulators have opened an investigation into 2.6 million Teslas after reports of crashes involving the use of company technology that allows drivers to remotely command their vehicle to return to them, or move to another location, using a phone app. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also said Tuesday that Tesla did not report any of the accidents. Tesla is under order to report crashes on publicly accessible roads involving vehicles being operated through its autonomous driving technology. The new investigation follows another probe launched in October looking into the company's Full Self-Driving system after getting reports of crashes in low-visibility conditions, including one that killed a pedestrian. That investigation covers 2.4 million Teslas from the 2016 through 2024 model years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tesla did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press on Tuesday. One driver filed a complaint after a crash while using Tesla's Actually Smart Summon technology and NHTSA is looking into another three similar incidents based on media reports, the NHTSA said. The agency is looking into 12 total incidents reported by users of the technology. Each of the vehicles failed to detect posts and other parked vehicles, according to the NHTSA. Regulators say the vehicles struck objects because the users had "too little reaction time to avoid a crash, either with the available line of sight or releasing the phone app button, which stops the vehicles movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shares of Tesla Inc., based in Austin, Texas, slid more than 4% in late afternoon trading Tuesday. Musk has complained that U.S. regulations are too onerous and are holding back the development of self-driving cars. Ethics experts are worried that once President-elect Donald Trump takes office, Musk will push him to ease oversight of Tesla, which just suffered its first decline in annual sales in more than a decade. Musk donated an estimated $250 million to Trump's presidential campaign and is a frequent guest at Trump's Mar-a-Lago, vetting cabinet nominees and meeting with foreign heads of state. Trump has put Musk in charge of an advisory group, the Department of Government Efficiency, that will recommend where to cut government expenses and staff at federal agencies and reduce regulation. The NHTSA said Tuesday it will look into the top speed that Teslas can reach when users deploy its summons technology, as well as restrictions on public roads and line of sights requirements. It also said it expects to check for any connectivity delays" with the app that could result in increased stopping distance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teslas Model 3 owners manual says that its summons feature is designed for use only in parking lots and driveways on private property and is disabled on public roads. The new probe covers 2016-2025 Model S and X vehicles, 2017-2025 Model 3, 2020-2025 Model Y equipped with Tesla's Full Self-Driving driver assistance system. The News The US reported its first known human death from H5N1 bird flu on Monday. The patient was hospitalized in Louisiana last month. A total of 66 people have tested positive for H5N1 in the US, usually with mild symptoms: The disease has been spreading among US dairy cows, although the dead victim apparently contracted the disease directly from birds. The concern is that the virus mutates to spread between humans and, in a worst-case scenario, starts a new pandemic. But Louisiana authorities found no evidence of person-to-person transmission, and said the risk to the public remained low. Genetic samples collected from the now-deceased patient, however, indicated several changes that may improve the virus ability to bind to cells in human airways. A map showing reported cases of bird flu since 2024 by US state SIGNALS US government criticized for failure to contain outbreak on farms Sources: Reuters, Center for Disease Control, PBS News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The risk to the general public from H5N1 bird flu remains low, a World Health Organization spokesperson told Reuters, echoing earlier comments by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But some experts say that the governments failure to contain the outbreak on dairy farms the Department of Agriculture didnt require lactating cows to be tested before interstate travel until late April, by which time the virus had spread to eight other states means the situation could potentially spiral, PBS News reported. Farmworkers are reluctant to get tested due to the high cost, and Donald Trumps vow to deport undocumented immigrants en masse could dissuade them from seeing a doctor about symptoms or complain about unsafe conditions, a public health expert warned. COVID-19 has left a long shadow over pandemic preparedness Sources: Abbott Pandemic Preparedness Defense Coalition, The Guardian Ninety percent of epidemiological experts surveyed by the Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition in September said that we are as well or better prepared for the next pandemic compared to before COVID-19. Others disagree: COVID left global health systems really shaky, a pandemic preparedness expert told The Guardian, as they struggle to cope with the growing list of health crises, compounding a workforce problem: Many have left. Many are suffering from PTSD. Many died, the expert said. Despite governments promises, theres still no agreement on the big elephant in the room of guaranteeing poorer countries access to treatments and vaccines, a health policy expert noted. The US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on Antal Rogan, a senior Hungarian government official and one of Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orban's closest associates. Source: a statement by the US Treasury Department, as cited by European Pravda Details: Antal Rogan was included on the US sanctions list under the Magnitsky Act, which allows for the prosecution of people accused of serious human rights crimes and corruption around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the US Treasury Department, Rogan is the Hungarian Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, overseeing numerous government agencies such as the National Communications Office, the Digital Government Agency, and the Hungarian Tourism Agency. Quote: "Throughout his tenure as a government official, Rogan has orchestrated Hungarys system for distributing public contracts and resources to cronies loyal to himself and the Fidesz political party," the report says. In this way, Orban's ally gained de facto control of key strategic areas of the Hungarian economy, with revenues going to his political allies, according to the US Treasury. Furthermore, according to European Pravda, Rogan is the leader of the Hungarian government's media empire, which spans the entire country and promotes pro-government policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the sanctions, Antal Rogan's assets in the United States, as well as companies in which he holds more than 50% of the shares, would be frozen. It is worth noting that Antal Rogan became the first high-ranking Hungarian official to be sanctioned by the United States. In 2023, the media reported that the US side was planning to impose restrictions on Hungarian officials, but then it ended up with sanctions against the International Investment Bank, a financial institution in Budapest with Russian ownership. Support UP or become our patron! The U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) imposed sanctions on Jan. 7 against Antal Rogan, a senior Hungarian government official and close associate of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Rogan is the first high-ranking Hungarian official sanctioned by the U.S. under the Magnitsky Act, which targets individuals involved in serious human rights abuses and corruption. Rogan, who serves as minister for the prime ministers Cabinet Office, oversees key government agencies, including the National Communications Office, the Digital Government Agency, and the Hungarian Tourism Agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Treasury Department accused Rogan of orchestrating schemes to control strategic sectors of Hungary's economy and diverting proceeds to himself and Fidesz party loyalists. "Minister Rogan has played a central role in enabling a system in Hungary that has benefitted himself and his party at the expense of the Hungarian people," the statement said. The move comes amid growing criticism of Orban's government domestically and internationally. Hungarian opposition leader Peter Magyar called for early elections on Jan. 1, citing Orbans declining popularity and widespread allegations of corruption. He accused Orban of turning Hungary into "the EU's poorest, most corrupt nation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Magnitsky Act, enacted in 2012, allows the U.S. to impose visa bans and asset freezes on individuals linked to corruption or human rights violations. To date, the U.S. has sanctioned 687 individuals under the Act. Read also: Its a Ukrainian fight Latvian foreign minister on the road to a just peace in Russias war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) A senior Hungarian government official close to Prime Minister Viktor Orban was hit Tuesday with U.S. sanctions for his alleged involvement in corruption in Hungary, a rare step against a sitting official in an allied country. The Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned Antal Rogan for corruption while in office. A key figure in Orbans government, Rogan is accused of using his position to broker favorable business deals with government-aligned businesspeople, a key part of European Union penalties against Hungary that have withheld billions in funding over official corruption concerns. Speaking at a news conference in Budapest on Tuesday, U.S. Ambassador to Hungary David Pressman said Rogan was a primary architect, implementer and beneficiary of systemic corruption in Hungary which he described as a kleptocratic ecosystem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For too long, senior government officials in Hungary have used positions of power to enrich themselves and their families, moving significant funds from the public purse into private pockets, Pressman said, adding that there were many others involved in such corruption within Hungary's government. The head of Orban's cabinet office, Rogan oversees the engineering of wide-reaching government communication campaigns that are credited with being instrumental in maintaining Orbans power since 2010. Known among critics in Hungary as the propaganda minister, Rogan rarely appears in public or gives interviews, but is a veteran advisor to Orban and also oversees Hungarys secret services. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement Tuesday that Rogans activity is emblematic of the broader climate of impunity in Hungary where key elements of the state have been captured by oligarchs and undemocratic actors. The authority used to designate Rogan is a Trump-era executive order that implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, which targets human rights abusers and corruption around the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sanctions brought by the outgoing Biden administration reflect U.S. efforts in the last four years to address concerns in Washington that Orban has led Hungary, a member of the EU and a NATO member, to abandon democratic principles while pursuing closer ties with Russia and China. Orban, who backs Donald Trump, has expressed certainty that U.S.-Hungarian relations would improve once the president-elect takes office. Orban made three visits to Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence in 2024, while Trump has spoken positively about him. Ambassador Pressman, whose tenure in Hungary will end this month, has been the subject of intense criticism by Orbans government, which accuses him of attempting to interfere in Hungarys internal affairs. Responding to the sanctions, Hungary's foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, wrote on social media: This is personal revenge against Antal Rogan by the ambassador sent by the failed U.S. administration to Hungary, but who is now leaving ingloriously and without success." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "How nice that in a few days time the United States will be led by people who see our country as a friend and not an enemy, Szijjarto wrote. The Treasury Department in 2023 placed sanctions on the International Investment Bank, which relocated its headquarters to Hungarys capital from Moscow in 2019, arguing it served as a conduit for Russian espionage within the EU and NATO. Hungary soon after withdrew its stakes in the bank. ___ Hussein reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington contributed reporting. WASHINGTON (AP) The Biden administration said Tuesday that a Sudanese paramilitary group and its proxies are committing genocide in a civil war with the country's military that has killed tens of thousands of people, leveling sanctions on the groups leader and affiliated companies. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the conflict, which began nearly two years ago and is considered the worlds biggest current humanitarian catastrophe, had escalated beyond a war crimes and ethnic cleansing determination he made in December 2023. Blinken said that based on more recent reporting, he found that the Rapid Support Forces group is committing genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RSF and RSF-aligned militias have continued to direct attacks against civilians, Blinken said. The RSF and allied militias have systematically murdered men and boys even infants on an ethnic basis, and deliberately targeted women and girls from certain ethnic groups for rape and other forms of brutal sexual violence. Those same militias have targeted fleeing civilians, murdering innocent people escaping conflict, and prevented remaining civilians from accessing lifesaving supplies, he said in a statement. The genocide determination has no legal implication by itself, but it was accompanied by a Treasury Department announcement that RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, also known as Hemedti, had been targeted for sanctions as well as seven RSF-owned companies in the United Arab Emirates, including one handling gold likely smuggled out of Sudan. The UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms on the Arabian Peninsula and a U.S. ally, has been repeatedly accused of arming the RSF, something it has strenuously denied despite evidence to the contrary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The RSF and Sudans military began fighting each other in April 2023. Their conflict has killed more than 28,000 people, has forced millions to flee their homes and has left some families eating grass in a desperate attempt to survive as famine sweeps parts of the country. Other estimates suggest a far higher death toll in the civil war. Emirati officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday night. The RSF did not immediately acknowledge the sanctions nor a request for comment from The Associated Press passed through an intermediary. Blinken said his determination was not intended to support either side in the conflict but rather to promote accountability for war crimes and other atrocities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, some experts believe the RSF is directly to blame for the situation. The RSF is responsible for some of the most heinous atrocities being committed anywhere in the world today," said John Prendergast, co-founder of The Sentry, a U.S.-based watchdog group. "Todays actions by the Biden administration are an important start to creating that accountability, which hopefully can provide leverage both for deterring future human rights crimes as well as for helping to drag the RSF into treating ceasefire negotiations more seriously. The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum said the decision is a somber acknowledgment of the horrific crimes endured by people who have been neglected for so long. __ Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed. WASHINGTON (AP) The Biden administration in its final days is shifting more than $100 million in military aid from Israel and Egypt to Lebanon as it tries to bolster a ceasefire agreement it helped mediate between Israel and Hezbollah. In separate notices sent to Congress, the State Department said it was moving $95 million in military assistance intended for Egypt and $7.5 million for Israel toward supporting the Lebanese army and its government. The notices were dated Jan. 3 and obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday. Most of the money will go to the Lebanese Armed Forces, which have a critical role in standing up the ceasefire that was agreed to in November following an all-out war between Israeli and Hezbollah that battered much of southern and eastern Lebanon for two months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is intended to help the LAF deploy in the south of the country and supplement the role of the U.N. peacekeeping mission patrolling the so-called Blue Line, which has separated Israel and Lebanon since the end of a monthlong Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006. Successful implementation (of the ceasefire) will require an empowered LAF, which will need robust assistance from the United States and other partners, the State Department said in the notices, both of which used nearly identical language to explain the funding shifts. Both Israel and Hezbollah agreed to pull their forces out of southern Lebanon before the end of January, with compliance to be overseen by the Lebanese army and U.N. peacekeepers. U.S. security assistance to the LAF increases its capacity as the countrys only legitimate military force and defender of Lebanons territorial integrity, enables the LAF to prevent potential destabilization from ISIS and other terrorist groups, and enables the LAF to provide security both for the Lebanese people and for U.S. personnel, the State Department said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pro-Israel members of Congress and others have in the past complained about any diversion of U.S. assistance to Israel, although it was not immediately clear if there would be objections to such a small amount of shifted money. At the same time, some of those who have been forceful advocates of Israel and critics of U.S. assistance to the Lebanese military have often complained that it has been infiltrated by Hezbollah. The notices rejected that claim. U.S. support to the LAF reinforces the LAF as an important institutional counterweight to Hezbollah, which receives weapons, training, and financial support from Iran, the State Department said. The LAF continues to be an independent, non-sectarian institution in Lebanon, and is respected across all sectors. In a third notice, also sent to Congress on Jan. 3, the department said it was going to provide $15 million to Lebanons Internal Security Forces to ensure that they become the primary law enforcement entity in the country and assist the LAF in controlling areas in the south. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That money will primarily be used to rebuild police stations, improve radio communications and purchase vehicles, the notice said. The third notice also informed lawmakers that the administration would provide $3.06 million to the Palestinian Authority police to support its operations in the West Bank and $2.5 million to Jordan's Public Security Directorate to support its response to public demonstrations. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel filed a lawsuit Monday alleging President Joe Biden unlawfully blocked Nippons $14.9 billion purchase of the American steel maker. Biden on Friday rejected Japan-based Nippon Steels takeover bid of the Pittsburgh-based steel manufacturer, citing national security concerns. As I have said many times, steel production and the steel workers who produce it are the backbone of our nation, Biden said in a news release. A strong domestically owned and operated steel industry represents an essential national security priority and is critical for resilient supply chains. Without domestic steel production and domestic steel workers, our nation is less strong and less secure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, argues Bidens action violated the companies right to a fair review. The suit seeks monetary damages and an injunction against the defendants from engaging in collusive and anti-competitive behavior. Nippon Steel is scheduled to hold a news conference on Tuesday. In a joint statement released Friday, U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel blasted Bidens action. We are dismayed by President Bidens decision to block Nippon Steels acquisition of U. S. Steel, which reflects a clear violation of due process and the law governing the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, the companies said. Instead of abiding by the law, the process was manipulated to advance President Bidens political agenda. The Presidents statement and Order do not present any credible evidence of a national security issue, making clear that this was a political decision. Following President Bidens decision, we are left with no choice but to take all appropriate action to protect our legal rights. We remain confident that the transaction is the best path forward to secure the future of U.S. Steel and we will vigorously defend our rights to achieve this objective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Steel (NYSE: X) was founded in 1901. The company produces and sells steel products for customers in industries such as automotive, construction, consumer, electrical, industrial equipment, distribution and energy. Once the worlds largest corporation, U.S. Steel was the worlds 27th-largest steelmaker in 2023, according to the World Steel Association. The company currently has 21,803 global employees and over 20 facilities and offices throughout the U.S. and Europe. Nippon Steel is the largest steel company in Japan and fourth largest in the world. The nearly $15 billion deal was first announced in December 2023. The Nippon deal came after a bidding war by Ohio-based competitor Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the United Steelworkers (USW) union said they favor the companys purchase by Cleveland-Cliffs instead of Nippon Steel. The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply, and energy-producing industries. The USW welcomes President Bidens decision to block the U.S. Steel-Nippon deal. We have no doubt that its the right move for our members and our national security, USW President David McCall said in a news release. Nippon has proven itself to be a serial trade cheater that for decades worked to undermine our domestic industry by dumping its products into our market. Allowing it to purchase U.S. Steel would have offered it the opportunity to further destabilize our trade system from within and in the process, compromise our ability to meet our own national security and critical infrastructure needs. The post US Steel sues Biden over blocked merger with Nippon appeared first on FreightWaves. By Jody Godoy (Reuters) -Cushman & Wakefield was among six large landlords sued by the U.S. Department of Justice over alleged anticompetitive practices in housing rental markets on Tuesday, expanding the DOJ's first case alleging algorithmic collusion. The DOJ and a coalition of states sued in North Carolina in August, accusing property management software company RealPage of letting landlords collude by sharing their pricing information with the company's software, which then recommends rent prices. RealPage has denied the allegations, and is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed. The amended lawsuit also accuses Cushman, Greystar Real Estate Partners, Blackstone's LivCor, Camden Property Trust, Cushman's Pinnacle Property Management Services and Willow Bridge Property Co. of using RealPage to unlawfully share non-public information about rental pricing. The landlords also shared pricing strategies with competitors via calls and user groups hosted by RealPage, the DOJ said. A spokesperson for Cushman said that Pinnacle is solely a property manager and does not own properties or set pricing. Greystar denied engaging in anti-competitive practices and said it would defend against the claims. Cortland Management has agreed to settle the claims, the DOJ said. "We believe we were only able to achieve this result because Cortland has invested years and significant internal resources into developing a proprietary revenue management software tool that does not rely on data from external, non-public sources," Cortland said in a statement. The other companies did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Illinois and Massachusetts joined the lawsuit on Tuesday. The alleged coordination likely harmed renters in local housing markets in those states and California, Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington, according to the lawsuit. (Reporting by Jody Godoy; Editing by Mark Porter and Aurora Ellis) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Biden administration is negotiating with Afghanistan to exchange Americans detained in the country for at least one high-profile prisoner held in Guantanamo Bay with alleged ties to former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. Representatives of the White House and the U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the report. Representatives for the Afghan Taliban also did not immediately respond. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration is seeking the return of three Americans seized in 2022 - Ryan Corbett, George Glezmann and Mahmood Habibi - in exchange for Muhammad Rahim al-Afghani, the WSJ reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source familiar with the matter confirmed to Reuters that the Biden administration has been negotiating with the Taliban since at least July on a U.S. proposal to exchange Corbett, Glezmann and Habibi for Rahim. The Taliban, who deny holding Habibi, countered with an offer to exchange Glezmann and Corbett for Rahim and two others, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue. Corbett and Habibi were detained in separate incidents in August 2022 a year after the Taliban seized Kabul amid the chaotic U.S. troop withdrawal. Glezmann was detained later in 2022 while visiting as a tourist. A spokesperson for the National Security Council said they could not confirm the WSJ story, but added that the administration was "working around the clock" to secure the release of the three Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rahim's lawyer, James Connell, told Reuters that neither the Biden administration nor the Taliban had informed him or Rahim of the negotiations. "It does seem important to include Rahim or his representative in the conversation," said Connell. "As it happens, he is willing to be traded or exchanged." Rahim was "the last person brought into the CIA torture program," said Connell, referring to an agency program instituted after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks that used harsh interrogation methods on suspected Islamist militants. The CIA denies the methods amounted to torture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Senate intelligence committee report on the agency's so-called enhanced interrogation program called Rahim an "al Qaeda facilitator" and said that he was arrested in Pakistan in June 2007 and "rendered" to the CIA the following month. He was kept in a secret CIA "black site," where he was subjected to tough interrogation methods, including extensive sleep deprivation, and then sent to Guantanamo Bay in March 2008, the report said. The U.S.-Taliban talks have been in motion since July, according to the WSJ, which cited sources who attended a classified House Foreign Affairs Committee briefing last month with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan. On Monday, Biden's administration sent 11 Guantanamo detainees to Oman, reducing the prisoner population at the detention center in Cuba by nearly half as part of its effort to close the facility as the president prepares to leave office Jan. 20. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay and Susan Heavey in Washington, Charlotte Greenfield in Islamabad, and Rishabh Jaiswal in Bengaluru; editing by Ed Osmond and Chizu Nomiyama, Mark Heinrich) In a major development, the Pentagon on Monday announced the transfer 11 Yemeni detainees at Guantanamo Bay to Oman, a move that now leaves only 15 detainees still at the detention facility. "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," said a DOD statement. In recent weeks, the Pentagon had transferred out four other detainees from Guantanamo including a detainee who was brought to the detention facility at the base in Cuba the day that it opened, but was never charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: US transfers Guantanamo detainee to Tunisia, leaving 26 at Cuba facility PHOTO: The Camp Justice sign near the Military Commissions court area, June 27, 2023, at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. (Elise Swain/Getty Images) The transfer of the 11 Yemeni detainees is the largest transfer to take place under President Joe Biden's administration. Of the remaining 15 detainees still at Guantanamo Bay, three are eligible for transfer; three are eligible for a Periodic Review Board; seven are involved in the military commissions process; and two detainees have been convicted and sentenced by military commissions. Among the detainees who will remain at Guantanamo is Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attack, who on Friday will appear at a hearing at the base where he is expected to plead guilty in return for the death penalty being withdrawn. The following week, two other 9/11 plotters are expected to plead guilty under the same plea agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just last week, a military appeals court reaffirmed that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin could not withdraw the plea agreements worked out with Mohammad, Walid Muhammad Salih Mubarak bin 'Attash, and Mustafa Ahmed Adam al Hawsawi. MORE: Pentagon announces 3 transfers out of Guantanamo, leaving 27 detainees According to the Pentagon statement, Austn notified Congress on Sept. 15, 2023, of "his intent to repatriate these 11 Yemeni detainees to the Government of Oman and, in consultation with our partners in Oman, we completed the requirements for transfer." The 11 detainees identified by their name and corresponding detainee identification number are : Uthman Abd al-Rahim Muhammad Uthman (ISN 27), Moath Hamza Ahmed al-Alwi (ISN 28), Khalid Ahmed Qassim (ISN 242), Suhayl Abdul Anam al Sharabi (ISN 569), Hani Saleh Rashid Abdullah (ISN 841), Tawfiq Nasir Awad Al-Bihani (ISN 893), Omar Mohammed Ali al-Rammah (ISN 1017), Sanad Ali Yislam Al Kazimi (ISN 1453), Hassan Muhammad Ali Bib Attash (ISN 1456), Sharqawi Abdu Ali Al Hajj (ISN 1457), and Abd Al-Salam Al-Hilah (ISN 1463). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for Shaqawi Al Hajj, 51, said in a statement that their client was flown to Oman this week after spending nearly 21 years in the prison at Guantanamo and more than two years in CIA sites. "Our thoughts are with Mr. Al Hajj as he transitions to the free world after almost 23 years in captivity. His release is hopeful for him and for us. We are grateful to Oman and to the individuals in the administration who made this transfer happen, and to the many people over the years whose work and advocacy paved the way for this moment," said Pardiss Kebriaei, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Constitutional Rights who represents Al Hajj. US transfers 11 Guantanamo detainees to Oman, leaving 15 at Cuba facility originally appeared on abcnews.go.com WASHINGTON (AP) The Pentagon said Monday it had transferred 11 Yemeni men to Oman this week after holding them for more than two decades without charge at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The transfer was the latest and biggest push by the Biden administration in its final weeks to clear Guantanamo of the last remaining detainees there who were never charged with a crime. The latest release brings the total number of men detained at Guantanamo to 15. That's the fewest since 2002, when President George W. Bush's administration turned Guantanamo into a detention site for the mostly Muslim men taken into custody around the world in what the U.S. called its war on terror." The U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and military and covert operations elsewhere followed the Sept. 11, 2001, al-Qaida attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The men in the latest transfer included Shaqawi al Hajj, who had undergone repeated hunger strikes and hospitalizations at Guantanamo to protest his 21 years in prison, preceded by two years of detention and torture in CIA custody, according to the U.S.-based Center for Constitutional Rights. Rights groups and some lawmakers have pushed successive U.S. administrations to close Guantanamo or, failing that, release all those detainees never charged with a crime. Guantanamo held about 800 detainees at its peak. The Biden administration and administrations before it said they were working on lining up suitable countries willing to take those never-charged detainees. Many of those stuck at Guantanamo were from Yemen, a country split by war, with its capital held by the Iranian-allied Houthi militant group. The sultanate of Oman, on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, did not acknowledge taking in the prisoners early Tuesday. Officials in the country did not respond to questions from The Associated Press. The key Western ally has taken in some 30 prisoners in the past since the founding of the prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, those prisoners have since been released in circumstances unexplained by Oman. Two Afghans once held by Oman returned to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan in February. One Yemeni died in Oman after being told he and 27 others would be repatriated to Yemen, the British activist group CAGE International said. Faced with little choice, 26 of the men and their families returned to Yemen after being pressured by the Omani government, which offered each $70,000 as compensation, the group said. It wasn't immediately clear what happened to the 28th prisoner. The transfer announced Monday leaves six never-charged men still being held at Guantanamo, two convicted and sentenced inmates, and seven others charged with the 2001 attacks, the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole, and 2002 bombings in Bali, Indonesia. ___ Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report. ___ A headline on a previous version of this story has been corrected to show the men were transferred to Oman, not Yemen. The U.S. on Monday transferred 11 prisoners out of Guantanamo Bay, the latest batch of inmates to leave the infamous facility in Cuba that once held around 780 detainees. The 11 prisoners were Yemeni nationals, according to the Defense Department, and their transfer to the country of Oman brings the detainee population at the site down to just 15 people. President Biden has continued the mission of the Obama administration to transfer prisoners out and wind down operations at the site that has become infamous for accusations of torture and abuse as the U.S. carried out the war on terrorism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pentagon also announced a detainee transfer to Tunisia in December, but its unclear if Biden intends to bring down the population even further before he leaves office. Several inmates are likely to remain for now, including the alleged 9/11 mastermind, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, known as KSM, and four of his conspirators. Including KSM, four of the five are set to stand trial beginning this week. The U.S. announced plea deals for KSM and three conspirators last year, but Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin revoked them. Last week, a military appeals court ruled that Austin did not have the authority to revoke the plea deals, which included life sentences for KSM and the three conspirators. The transfers this week were authorized for one detainee, Tawfiq Nasir Awad Al-Bihani, by an executive order signed by then-President Obama in 2009. The others were authorized by a review board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although different processes, each of the 10 Yemeni detainees underwent a thorough, interagency review by career professionals who unanimously determined all detainees as transfer eligible consistent with the national security interests of the United States, the Pentagon said in a release. One of the detainees transferred was Sharqawi Al Hajj, 51, who spent 21 years at Guantanamo Bay despite never being charged with a crime and who was hospitalized after undergoing a hunger strike in 2017. Hajj was represented by the Center for Constitutional Rights. Pardiss Kebriaei, a senior staff attorney at the legal foundation, said his thoughts were with Hajj as he transitions to the free world after almost 23 years in captivity. His release is hopeful for him and for us, Kebriaei said in a statement. We are grateful to Oman and to the individuals in the administration who made this transfer happen, and to the many people over the years whose work and advocacy paved the way for this moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The legal foundation said Hajj was one of 119 victims named in a Senate Intelligence report on the CIAs alleged abuses, and that he spent more than two years at the CIAs sites before transferring to Guantanamo Bay in 2004. Of the 15 men still at the Cuba site, six have never been charged, three of whom are awaiting release while the other three waiting for clearance, according to the Center for Constitutional Rights. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 United States has sent 11 Yemeni detainees of the notorious Guantanamo Bay prison to Oman, the Pentagon said on Monday. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin informed Congress in September 2023 about his intent to support the repatriation of the 11 detainees following a rigorous review, the Pentagon said. "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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Guantanamo Bay detention camp is a US military prison within a US naval base in Cuba established by the George W Bush administration following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to hold suspected Islamist terrorists. At one point, almost 800 people were held at the facility which has been condemned internationally for denying inmates their right to fair legal trial as well as human rights violations. Despite calls from human rights organizations for its closure, a total of 15 detainees are still being held at Guantanamo. MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG) USA Health Childrens and Womens Hospital neonatologist Kelechi Ikeri, MBBS, FAAP, is one of five national recipients of the American Academy of Pediatrics/Vermont Oxford Network Scholars Award. According to a USA Health news release, the award recognizes future leaders in newborn care who are dedicated to data-driven quality improvement when caring for infants and families. LoDa ArtWalk to honor Catt Sirten, Jerry Roldan this week Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are immensely proud that Dr. Ikeris contributions to the care of sick and premature infants in our community has received national recognition, Maran Ramani, M.D., head of the neonatology division at Childrens & Womens Hospital, said. This award places him among a distinguished group of emerging physicians. We eagerly anticipate his future achievements in enhancing outcomes for our smallest patients. Kelechi Ikeri, MBBS, FAAP. (USA Health) Ikeri will receive a stipend to attend the Annual Quality Congress and present research in a 2025 webinar. He is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine and serves as the neonatal physician lead for the Alabama Perinatal Quality Collaborative. According to USA Health, Ikeri was born in Nigeria where he earned a bachelor of medicine and surgery degree from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in Idi-Araba, in Lagos, Nigeria. He worked in hospitals in Nigeria and Tobago before moving to the United States in 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Town of State Line offers $15,000 for information on gas station triple homicide He completed his pediatrics residency in 2018 at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Centre in Brooklyn, New York, and completed a neonatal-perinatal medicine fellowship at St. Christophers Hosptial for Children in Philadelphia in 2021. USA Health officials said Ikeri is American Board of Pediatrics certified in general pediatrics and neonatology. He is also a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association and American College of Medical Quality. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. People vote at the Main Library in Salt Lake City on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch) After the description of a proposed amendment to the Utah Constitution on Novembers ballot sparked controversy, Democratic lawmakers are seeking more neutrality in future drafts. With HB101, titled Ballot Proposition Amendments, a bill sponsored by House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, lawmakers are expected to explore switching the authors of ballot titles and analysis for proposed constitutional amendments, or questions submitted by the Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under a change adopted by lawmakers last year, the president of the Senate and the speaker of the House are in charge of writing titles and questions submitted by the Legislature, summarizing the subject and explaining any laws that could become effective if voters approve. However, after the language of Amendment D prompted a successful court challenge by critics that left the question voided on voters ballots, Romero wants legislative attorneys, part of a nonpartisan body, to take over the job of drafting future ballot questions. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX My concern when were doing these amendments is to ensure that when people are reading the language of what that amendment does, it doesnt have a political lens of Republican or Democrat. Its a neutral perspective from our attorneys, Romero said. The bill is expected to be co-sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, who, like Romero, heard concerns from constituents about the description of Amendment D, written by House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, and Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, which the Utah Supreme Court ruled to be misleading. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amendment D would have enshrined in the Utah Constitution the Legislatures power to change all ballot initiatives, sidestepping a Utah Supreme Court decision affirming that the Legislature couldnt change the substance of government reform initiatives. But, votes toward that question were voided after the justices found the Legislature failed to give proper notice of the proposed amendment. After the legal fight, Romero said that she wants to ensure that lawmakers dont make such a deep impact on already scarce citizen initiatives in another special session. Let us know what you think... Both Schultz and Adams expressed regret over the vague language of Amendment D in November, acknowledging mistakes and vowing to work together to find better ways. After Romeros bill became public, Schultz said he looks forward to having these discussions when the legislature convenes in the upcoming session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a Republican supermajority, however, Romero isnt certain on how her bill will fare once lawmakers convene on Jan. 21. But, she hopes to see more involvement from Utahns to ensure their voices are heard. If people want to see a more balanced government here in the state of Utah, then we can look at redistricting, and yeah, has that disenfranchised people? Probably, Romero said. But at the same time, if more people would get involved and vote, I think we would have a different Legislature, and its up to us, as elected officials, too, to give people a hope and a reason to vote, too. Romero called on Utahns to be alert, especially during the session, since nationally there have been actions restricting peoples access to voting, including potential changes to mail-in voting. My sense from when I talk to people from across the state of Utah, is they dont want to see vote by mail change. And people were outraged, Romero said. Thats why these different citizen groups took this to our judiciary, to get to stand up for the rights of people. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The Utah Legislature is poised to cut taxes for a fifth year, but Republican legislative leaders have different ideas than Gov. Spencer Cox. (Illustration by Alex Cochran for Utah News Dispatch) Utahs Republican-controlled Legislature is poised to cut taxes in some way yet again for a fifth year in a row. While the governor has his preferences, lawmakers will have their own ideas to hash out. And that may include yet another income tax rate cut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of his budget recommendation, Cox proposed nixing the states tax on Social Security benefits, estimated to cost the state about $143.8 million a year. Currently, Utah households that receive Social Security and earn less than $75,000 can already qualify for a Social Security benefit tax credit. However, the governors proposal would help reduce income taxes for an estimated 150,000 more taxpayers to the tune of about $950 a year for the average filer. Cox said he supports totally repealing Utahs tax on Social Security benefits as a tax cut targeted to our seniors. He also proposed using $2.1 million to expand the states child tax credit for families of up to four children. However, Utahs Republican legislative leaders arent fully committing to supporting Coxs proposal. House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, and Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said theyre supportive of reducing the Social Security tax on benefits at least partially, but they also said lawmakers will be considering other ideas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to provide tax cuts to every citizen, including those on Social Security, Schultz said. While it remains to be seen exactly what lawmakers will do, Schultz said, I believe something will be done on Social Security. Whether it goes as what the governor wants, thats yet to be determined. Schultz said that may entail yet another reduction to Utahs income tax rate. Thats something Adams decisively said hed like to see in addition to expanding the Social Security tax credit. But that may mean perhaps not removing the tax on Social Security benefits entirely. I support trying to do both, Adams said. He added that the income cap on the Social Security tax credit might go from $75,000 to $100,000 or something, though that depends on the budgeting process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We only have so much money, so well start running the data and figuring it out, Adams said. But I support doing both, not just one. Yet another income tax cut, but no larger tax reform discussion Last legislative session, the 2024 Utah Legislature passed a $167 million income tax cut, dropping Utahs rate from 4.65% to 4.55% just one year after the 2023 Utah Legislature dropped the rate from 4.85% to 4.65%. During the debate around last years income tax rate cut, opponents argued lawmakers should keep the money in their budget to pay for unmet needs in education, housing, homelessness and other priorities. Critics also noted income tax cuts largely benefit the wealthy. For last years cut, an analysis by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, a nonprofit liberal tax policy think tank, showed it would disproportionately benefit Utahs highest earners, with over 60% of the cut going to the states top 20% of income earners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schultz and Adams have long supported getting rid of Utahs income tax cut entirely though that would require major tax reform. While the governor last year encouraged having that broader discussion if lawmakers are going to continue hacking away at the states income tax, Adams said he doesnt expect lawmakers to tackle tax reform in 2025. Not this year, Adams said. House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, said she hasnt supported any of the tax cuts recently passed by the Utah Legislature because shed rather see that money go into the services that we need, such as addressing homelessness and helping people with disabilities. However, while Romero said she likes the governors proposal to remove the states tax on Social Security, shes not in favor of another income tax cut that she said wont help middle or working class Utahns as much as higher earners. Repeal of states portion of sales tax on food long gone Theres another tax cut option that top legislative leaders say they will not be pursuing: removing the states portion of sales tax on food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Thats something low-income advocates have long called for, and its a proposal that Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, said she and other Democrats continue to support. Were still going to continue to fight, Escamilla said, arguing that repealing the food tax should stand on its own as good public policy, a progressive tax cut. However, the proposal to eliminate the state food tax is long gone, Adams said, because of Amendment As failure voided by the courts. In 2023, the Utah Legislature put that proposed constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot to ask voters to approve removing the states earmark on income tax dollars for education (something public education advocates have railed against). As part of that effort, lawmakers also proposed eliminating the states portion of sales tax on food but only if voters approved removing the education earmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in October a judge voided that ballot question, Amendment A, after Utahs largest teacher union and other plaintiffs sued. The courts voided it because lawmakers failed to properly publish the proposed constitutional amendment and ruled that even though the question was printed on the Nov. 5 ballot, votes wouldnt be counted. In 2023, Republican legislators argued that making the repeal of the states food tax contingent on the removal of the education earmark was necessary because state officials have long said the states budget has faced a structural imbalance due to income tax revenue growth (which funds education) outpacing other types of revenue growth, which fund other needs from the general fund. For now, it appears lawmakers are abandoning that effort. Its possible they could try to propose another form of Amendment A, but the next opportunity for that question to be placed on the ballot isnt until 2026. If we cant get the initiative on the ballot, the solution is just get rid of income tax, Adams said, adding that he wont support removing the states food tax without addressing the states budgetary imbalance by removing the education earmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You have to have one tax or the other. I was in favor of actually reducing the sales tax on food if we could fix our income tax problem, Adams said. Obviously we cant fix that problem, so the solution is get rid of income tax, and were probably going to continue to have sales tax. So Im not in favor of cutting any any sales tax until we fix our structural imbalance. Still, the Executive Appropriations Committee last month set aside about $165 million in ongoing revenue that was originally reserved for that food tax repeal for some other form of tax relief. Escamilla urged caution, saying I dont know that we should be cutting anymore given the past four legislative sessions have culminated in more than $1 billion in tax cuts. However, she said shes more in favor of repealing the states portion of sales tax on food and the governors Social Security proposal. However, because they hold the purse strings, its now up to the larger Legislature to decide. The 2025 Utah Legislature is scheduled to convene on Jan. 21. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Spanish tourist killed by elephant while on holiday in Thailand ARCHIVED ARTICLE The tragedy at the elephant care centre has highlighted animal welfare concerns A 22-year-old A 22-year-old Spanish tourist, Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, was killed last Friday by an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in Thailand while participating in a bathing activity. Local police described the elephant as panic-stricken during the incident, which occurred as Garcia washed the animal. Garcia, a law and international relations student at Spains University of Navarra, was on holiday in Thailand with her boyfriend, who witnessed the tragic event. She had been living in Taiwan as part of a student exchange programme. Experts suggested to Spanish newspaper Clarin that the elephant may have been stressed due to its interaction with tourists outside its natural habitat. Animal welfare organisations have long criticised elephant tourism activities, arguing that they can cause unnecessary stress and disrupt natural behaviours. Bathing elephants is a popular tourist attraction in Thailand, which is home to over 4,000 wild elephants and a similar number in captivity. The Koh Yao centre offers elephant care packages that allow visitors to feed, bathe and walk with the animals for prices ranging from 1,900 to 2,900 baht (5380). World Animal Protection, an international charity, has repeatedly called for an end to breeding elephants in captivity and the use of elephants for tourism. The charity reports that more than 60% of captive elephants used for tourism in Asia live in severely inadequate conditions. These intelligent and socially intricate animals, capable of complex thoughts and emotions, endure profound suffering in captivity as their natural social structures cannot be replicated artificially, the organisation stated. Spains foreign minister, Jose Manuel Albares, confirmed that the Spanish consulate in Bangkok is providing assistance to Garcias family. Efforts to contact the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre for comment have so far been unsuccessful. In August, there was a high-profile case in which a Spanish man, the son of a celebrity, was jailed for life in Thailand for the murder of his Colombian lover WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) A West Jordan man has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly stabbed his brother on Christmas Day for snitching. According to court documents, Javier Rafael Pedregon-Magana and the victim were celebrating Christmas with family when they left together to go home. Later that night, a family member said they received a call from the victim saying his brother had stabbed him, left him, and took his car. One witness called the police saying she had watched as the victim jumped out of a black sedan and started running on the right shoulder of I-15. The black sedan then accelerated toward the concrete barrier in an alleged attempt to run the victim over but he was able to jump the barrier to safety. The black sedan then reportedly fled south on I-15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers with the Utah Highway Patrol responded and reported finding the victim with several lacerations and stab wounds. They said he was disoriented and struggled to remain conscious as he was taken to a local hospital. COURT DOCS: New details in Talia Lee Benward murder case released On the next day, police were notified that Pedregon-Magana was seen circling the hospital in the victims car. When troopers arrived, Pedregon-Magana allegedly attempted to flee but became pinned between Utah Highway Patrol vehicles and was safely taken into custody. Pedregon-Magana explained to officers that there was a hit put out on his brother as he was suspected of snitching. Pedregon-Magana, who also reportedly had hit orders against him, was ordered to kill his brother in order to clear his own name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Pedregon-Magana claimed that he had another man hiding in the trunk of the victims car. While they were driving away from the Christmas gathering, he reportedly lowered the back seat and the other man attacked the victim. When the victim got out of the car, Pedregon-Magana allegedly admitted to getting in the drivers seat and attempting to run the victim over but missed. Pedregon-Magana told officers he then dropped the other man off. Court records show Pedregon-Magana has been charged with one count of first-degree felony attempted murder and one count of third-degree felony failure to respond to an officers signal to stop. We appreciate the witness who saw the survivor of this violent crime on the side of the road and reported it to law enforcement to ensure that justice could be served, said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. It is not only the obligation of law enforcement to help stop crime, but it is also the responsibility of everyone in our community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Utah Republican lawmakers announced a slate of immigration bills on Monday targeting migrants who are in the country illegally and increasing penalties for migrant-related crime. House Majority Whip Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield, led a press conference at the Utah Capitol outlining how the state Legislature plans to take a more active role in immigration policy following the record-breaking increase in migrants into the U.S. during the Biden administration. While we are confident that the incoming Trump administration is going to take the southern border much more seriously, we also know that we need to act as state leaders to address the harm caused by the Biden-Harris administrations failure to act, Lisonbee said. When the federal government fails to fulfill its responsibility, states have no choice but to step up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utah remains a place that welcomes all legal immigrants and refugees but that attitude cannot come at the expense of public safety or seriously strained public resources, Lisonbee said. Utah lawmakers to facilitate deportations of criminals The Legislatures announcement follows an election year in which President-elect Donald Trump focused on crime committed by migrants who are in the country illegally and initiating what Trump says will be the largest deportation program in U.S. history. One bill sponsored by Lisonbee would expand detention space for Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers to make it easier to deport migrants in the country illegally who commit crimes. The package of about a dozen bills presented on Monday focused on enhancing criminal charges for those involved in violent crimes as well as creating negative consequences for other unauthorized migrants living in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bill texts will be made public over the next few weeks, Lisonbee said, and will be introduced during the 45-day legislative session beginning on Jan. 21, one day after Trump enters office. Rep. Candice Pierucci, R-Riverton, introduced several proposals to crack down on immigrants convicted of crimes and to help Utah communities that have been overwhelmed by a surge in immigration. Pierucci proposed a bill that would repeal a 2019 law that reduced the jail sentence for class A misdemeanor by one day to protect migrants from automatic deportation. Her bill would increase the sentence back to 365 days which would allow ICE to more easily deport migrants who break the law after entering Utah. The bill would require the deportation of migrants who have been incarcerated instead of leaving open the chance for them to be released in Utah after completing their sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its critical that were cracking down on crime and working hand in hand with President Trumps administration to expedite the process of exporting criminals who have entered our country, either illegally or manipulated and abused our countrys immigration system, come to America and then done harm to the public, Pierucci said. Pierucci also plans to introduce provisions to limit bail for undocumented or asylum seeking migrants, and to enhance penalties for human trafficking. She also wants to stop nonprofit organizations from knowingly transporting undocumented individuals into Utah. Pierucci said it would specifically target nonprofit groups that have transported migrants from other states to Utah against the states wishes, and sometimes against the wishes of the individual being moved. What other immigration bills were announced? Pieruccis legislative district in Herriman, and the surrounding areas of southwest Salt Lake County have been hit by increased immigration more than most places in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2020, the number of new immigration cases in Herriman have climbed from 750 to nearly 13,000, Pierucci said, citing data from Syracuse Universitys Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse. The city has been forced to triple its budget for court translation services and multiple schools have seen an increase of more than 100% in non-English speaking students, Pierucci said. To support these communities, Pierucci plans to introduce a bill that will allow the most impacted schools to access emergency funds to train additional teachers for English Language Learners. The other bills announced on Monday would: Enhance penalties for trafficking fentanyl to include a presumptive jail sentence. Enhance penalties for gang crimes, including recruiting minors to join gangs. Enhance penalties for migrants who commit a felony after previously being convicted by federal authorities of unlawful reentry. Enhance penalties for driving without a license and require the impoundment of vehicles of unlicensed drivers. Enhance penalties for those who squat in vacant homes. Increase the number of businesses required to use E-Verify. Create a 2% fee for international wire transfers which can be waived for tax filers or people with valid state ID. House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, who was in attendance, said there is little daylight between herself and her colleagues on the importance of public safety. Romeros worry is that the conversation risks conflating vulnerable members of the community with violence and crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive had people who live in my district tell me that people are telling them to go back where they came from, to go home, theyre feeling like people are being hostile towards them, Romero said. My concern is the fact that were not separating the two when we talk about immigration. Is the Utah Compact intact? Just under 15 years ago, Utah distinguished itself from neighboring states with the Utah Compact on Immigration, a statement signed by hundreds of Utah leaders in 2010 that attempted to balance the rule of law, a recognition of federal authority on immigration, an opposition to policies that separate families and an aspiration to integrate migrants into the economy. The statement was followed a year later by a historic package of state laws under the same name that included a guest worker program for migrants, in-state college tuition for undocumented migrants and a requirement for law enforcement to check the immigration status of anyone suspected of a class A misdemeanor or felony. Mondays policy unveiling represented a departure from the substance and tone of the Utah Compact, according to Romero. While lawmakers did not propose rolling back the states driver privilege card program which was Romeros biggest concern the nine Republican legislators strayed from the Utah Compact by not emphasizing the value of migrants in our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So my main concern is mixing up immigration and public safety, Romero said. Are there parallels? Yes. But my concern is how we talk about these issues. Pierucci rejected the idea that the press conference marked a break with the Utah Compact. Integrating migrants into the community and keeping communities safe are not at odds if the focus remains on penalizing those who commit an additional crime after entering the country, Pierucci said. All these bills are focusing on the criminal element of this, and none of these bills are targeting people who have come here as temporary asylum seekers, Pierucci said. PROVO, Utah (ABC4) A junior high teacher with the Alpine School District was taken into custody on Monday, accused of using his school email account to access child pornography. Travis Adamson, 50, was booked into the Utah County Jail on one second-degree felony charge of sexual exploitation of a minor, according to court documents. In a probable cause statement, the Utah County Sheriffs Office said they were tipped off by Adobe through the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children. The tip stated that one file uploaded by an email address allegedly belonging to Adamson contained an explicit image of an underaged child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement COURT DOCS: New details in Talia Lee Benward murder case released Adamson allegedly admitted to investigators that he had been viewing child porn over the last five to six years, according to court documents. He stated that he had downloaded several thousand images and videos which were stored on a hard drive at his home. Police say Adamson, who teaches art in the Alpine School District, denied ever photographing or doing anything inappropriate with his students or other kids. In a statement provided to ABC4.com, the Alpine School District confirmed Adamson has been placed on administrative leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement District policies and state laws guide the district on how to proceed, the statement reads in part. We are in communication with the Utah County Sheriffs Office as they conduct their investigation. The Alpine School District said all of its employees undergo a criminal background check before employment. The school district added it has appreciated the professionalism of its law enforcement partners in the handling of the allegations. Adamson has been ordered to be held without bail, pending a pretrial hearing, according to court documents. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 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 ABC4 Utah. (Reuters) -Russian airline Utair made an emergency landing at Moscow's Vnukovo Airport on Tuesday, Russia's RIA news agency reported. The Boeing 737 plane with 173 passengers on board was flying from St Petersburg to Samarkand in Uzbekistan but landed safely at Vnukovo, RIA reported. TASS news agency reported that Utair said the emergency landing was due to a stabiliser malfunction. Utair and Vnukovo airport did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RIA cited the airline as saying all passengers and crew were unharmed. Russia currently does not have enough planes to meet demand for air travel, which is rising as Moscow's war effort fuels economic growth, driving up wages and people's propensity to spend. Western sanctions over Moscow's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine have cut off the supply of planes and parts, which domestic production has been unable to replace. (Reporting by Alexander Marrow; editing by Jason Neely and Hugh Lawson) CNN political commentator Van Jones weighed in on President-elect Trumps idea of pitching Canada to become the 51st state, claiming that if it happens, Americas northern neighbor would be a huge blue state. I dont understand why anybody is mad at Trump about this, the pundit said Monday on CNNs NewsNight. Im serious if Trump wants for Canada to become the 51st that would be a huge blue state, he told the panel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conservative commentator Scott Jennings seemingly agreed with him, saying he would retract his previous statement on the topic. Exactly. Like, I dont think that Trump has thought this through, Jones, who previously served as an adviser to former President Obama, continued. First of all, it would be wonderful to have a massive blue state. They have an amazing health care system, he added. It would be wonderful for us to listen, if he if Canada wants to come here and rescue us, I am more than happy. Hours before the discussion, Trump proposed the idea of merging the U.S. and Canada into one nation, shortly after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation, setting a 2025 end date to his nine-year tenure. A merging of the two countries would mean the tariffs would be erased, according to the president-elect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, Trump wrote Monday on Truth Social. Together, what a great Nation it would be!!! Trump threatened Canada with a tariff hike last year, saying he would slap a 25 percent tariff on goods imported from the country if it does not bolster border security and curb the influx of fentanyl coming into the U.S. from the northern border. Trudeau said the tariffs would complicate cooperation between the two nations. The president-elect has also trolled Trudeau following their late November meeting at Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, calling the Liberal Party leader the governor of Canada. Canada is set to have a general election later this year. 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. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Rhode Islanders are getting closer to being able to customize their license plates again. R.I. Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) spokesperson Paul Grimaldi told 12 News the process for restarting the program is ongoing, with the goal of opening applications this year. The DMV is finalizing regulations that will be reviewed by the Office of Regulatory Reform, Grimaldi explained, which will then be posted to the Secretary of States website for public comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALSO READ: New license plate would benefit Rhode Island fisheries The state suspended the vanity plate application process in February 2021 after a lawsuit involving an environmentally conscious car owners controversial vanity plate. Back in 2020, Sean Carroll took the state to court after the DMV requested he turn in his plates in response to an anonymous complaint. The DMV gave him an ultimatum: if he didnt return his FKGAS license plate, his car registration would be canceled. The Tesla owner argued that his license plate is supposed to be read as fake gas, though others interpreted it as being profane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. (Bloomberg) -- Venezuelas opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez said his son-in-law was kidnapped on Tuesday in Caracas just days before his vowed return to the capital. Most Read from Bloomberg Gonzalez, who won more votes than incumbent Nicolas Maduro in Julys presidential election according to electoral records collected by the opposition, said in a post on X that son-in-law Rafael Tudares was intercepted by hooded men in black and loaded into a van as he was taking his children, 6 and 7, to their first day of school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tensions in the capital have been rising as Gonzalez vows to return to Venezuela on Jan. 10 to be sworn in as president despite government threats to arrest him upon arrival. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello has even set a $100,000 reward for information leading to Gonzalezs capture. Maduro, who was declared the winner by the electoral authority without presenting evidence, is slated to begin a third consecutive term in the South American nation at the end of the week. Gonzalez, a little-known former ambassador before his presidential run in 2024, has been on a diplomatic blitz in the days before Venezuelas presidential inauguration, meeting with US President Joe Biden, Argentinas Javier Milei and Uruguays Luis Lacalle Pou in the last week. Hes scheduled to travel to Panama to sit with President Jose Raul Mulino on Wednesday. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Jan. 6 (UPI) -- President Joe Biden on Monday met with Venezuela's opposition leader ahead of this week's inauguration of President Nicolas Maduro's contested third term, according to multiple reports. Speaking briefly at the White House, Venezuelan Democratic Unitary party leader Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia described his meeting with the outgoing U.S. president as "long, cordial and fruitful," The Miami Herald reported. The United States has recognized Gonzalez, who arrived Sunday night, as the rightful winner of Venezuela's recent presidential election, which was overshadowed by credible allegations of corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was slated to meet with Luis Almagro, the secretary general of the Organization of American States, later Monday afternoon. Gonzalez has been in exile in Madrid since September amid an arrest warrant and a promise to be detained by Venezuelan authorities if he returns to his native country, which he has promised to do for the authoritarian leader's inauguration on Friday. Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, Venezuelan opposition leader, speaks to members of the news media outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on Monday. Photo by Ting Shen/UPI The Biden administration has applied pressure on the South American country's dictator to start peaceful transition talks amid calls for protesters to take to the streets. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Gonzalez and fellow opposition leader Maria Corina Machado days ago to express a U.S. condemnation of Maduro's "anti-democratic actions" ahead of his inauguration. On Monday, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia (C) met with President Joe Biden, which followed a tour of multiple Latin American countries, as he seeks support ahead of Nicolas Maduro's inauguration this week. Photo by Ting Shen/UPI Machado has called for massive demonstrations across Venezuela on Friday, which she described as "a crucial day for the nation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement on Sunday, Gonzalez called on Venezuela's military to "act with honor, merit and conscience, guided by the values that unite us as a fundamental institution of the Republic" as Maduro preps to begin a third term. He said it is "necessary" to put an end to "a leadership that has distorted the fundamental and moral principles of our Armed Forces" and the "mission" as it was is to "restore popular sovereignty, expressed through the vote, and to ensure the peace and stability of our nation." "It is time to reaffirm our commitment to the homeland," he added. "Starting from January 10, we must act with determination and unity to protect our Venezuela." CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) Self-exiled Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, who claims to have defeated President Nicolas Maduro in last years presidential election, said his son-in-law was kidnapped Tuesday in Venezuela's capital. Gonzalez, who was traveling in the United States, said Rafael Tudares was kidnapped while on his way to drop off Gonzalezs two grandchildren at school in Caracas. In a post on X, Gonzalez said hooded men, dressed in black intercepted the vehicle and loaded Tudares into a gold-colored van. He did not say what happened to his 6- and 7-year-old grandchildren. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The kidnapping happened despite a significant increase in police and military presence since New Years Day across Caracas ahead of Friday's swearing-in ceremony for Maduro, who the government says won a third term in the July election. The governments centralized press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Gonzalez, a retired diplomat, represented Venezuelas Unitary Platform opposition coalition in the presidential election, which he and Maduro both claim to have won. The platform in a statement characterized Tudares' kidnapping as a forced disappearance for political reasons. We demand the immediate release of Rafael Tudares and all political prisoners, who are hostages of a regime that knows it is rejected by the vast majority of Venezuelans who spoke with the force of the vote (on July 28), the coalition said in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 return to his homeland to take the oath of office. Gonzalez, 75, is touring the Americas to try to rally support for his effort to get Maduro out of office by Friday. That's when, by law, the South American countrys next presidential term begins. On Monday, Gonzalez met with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House as well as with U.S. Rep. Mike Waltz, U.S. President-elect Donald Trumps designate to be his national security adviser once he is sworn in on Jan. 20. Gonzalez, who has been recognized by several governments including the U.S. as Venezuela's president-elect, has not explained how he plans to return to the troubled country or wrest power from Maduro, whose ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela controls all aspects of government. Gonzalez had never run for office before July. The Unitary Platform coalition selected him in April as a last-minute stand-in for opposition powerhouse Maria Corina Machado, who was blocked by the Maduro-controlled Supreme Tribunal of Justice from running for any office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Machado last week urged supporters to demonstrate across Venezuela on Thursday, telling them in a video message that Maduro will not step down on his own and they must make him leave. Maduro has asked his supporters to demonstrate Friday. But it is unclear whether anyone will heed calls to head to the streets with the increased security presence. On Tuesday, despite being the first day of school after the holidays, children were nowhere to be seen during morning rush hour in Caracas, and some schools remained closed. There is tension. As soon as night falls, the city is like a ghost town," Caracas resident Mari Jimenez said. We do not feel confident seeing so many police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours after announcing his son-in-laws kidnapping, Gonzalez said he was continuing his multi-country tour with a stop in Panama. Kidnappings were commonplace in Venezuela at the end of last and beginning of this century, when criminals targeted the wealthy and a thriving middle class. But that type of crime decreased in recent years, as the countrys economy came undone and Venezuelans began to emigrate. Recently, people have associated kidnappings with the government practice of detaining its real or perceived opponents without following the law. They are seen as part of a campaign to repress anti-government protests that broke out after the election results were announced. Electoral authorities in July declared Maduro the winner hours after polls closed, but unlike in previous presidential elections, they 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, who met with Gonzalez on Monday in Washington, joined the calls for Tudares' immediate release. In a post on X, he said Tudares situation is a new and unacceptable act of political pressure" against Gonzalez, whom "the international community certified as the winner of the July elections, something that the regime continues to fail to refute with evidence. Meanwhile, Machado denounced that agents had surrounded her mother's house, set up roadblocks throughout the neighborhood and flown drones in the area. Maduro and company, you have no limits in your evil," she posted on X. "Cowards. ____ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america The son-in-law of exiled Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez has been kidnapped. "Rafael was on his way to my seven and six-year-old grandchildren's school in Caracas to drop them off at the start of class when he was abducted by masked men dressed in black," Gonzalez posted on X on Tuesday. He said that they had taken him away in a gold-coloured van. After the presidential election in Venezuela last July, Gonzalez claimed victory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US and several Latin American countries recognize him as the winner but the election authority, which is loyal to the government, declared authoritarian incumbent Nicolas Maduro as the victor. Maduro, in power for almost 12 years, is due to be sworn in for a further term of office on Friday. Gonzalez travelled to Spain at the beginning of September and applied for political asylum there. The 75-year-old had announced that he would return home and be sworn in himself on Friday, but decided to stay away with an arrest warrant issued for him. If he enters the country, Gonzalez will be arrested and tried on charges of sabotage, conspiracy and usurpation of office, according to Venezuela's Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protests by opposition supporters have been violently suppressed by the Venezuelan state in the past. According to the non-governmental organization Foro Penal, there were almost 1,800 political prisoners by the end of 2024. It looks like Joe Biden will be a thorn in Donald Trumps side long after he vacates the Oval Office, after the outgoing president used a pair of aging laws to effectively troll his successor. Just a day after using a 72-year-old law to stymie Trumps ambitions to explore offshore drilling opportunities, Biden is at it againthis time deploying a piece of legislation more than a century old to hamper his old foes plans. The ace up Sleepy Joes sleeve this time proved hes not so slow, as he invoked the 119-year-old Antiquities Act to protect a vast area of land in southern California, where the Colorado and Mojave Deserts come together. Biden's actions will rattle Trump. / Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images The area, now known as Chuckwalla National Monument, spans over 624,000 acres of Bureau of Land Managementcontrolled public lands, and becomes the largest tract of protected land in the continental U.S. The Sattitla Highlands National Monuments, in the north of the state, will also come into existence, creating a total protected area of nearly 850,000 acres, according a White House statement Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump took issue with the Antiquities Act in April 2017, when he decreed an executive reversal instructing the Department of the Interior to review then-President Obamas designations of national monuments. Trump was seeking to free up over 553 million acres of natural areas that Obama had protected from developmentplus 219 million more set aside by Presidents Clinton and Bush. Ryan Bidwell, Senior Director of Conservation at the Conservation Lands Foundation, told the Daily Beast at the time that the step was a thinly veiled attempt to turn these lands over to oil and gas drillers and sell them off to corporate interests. But under Bidens new order, that will become more difficult. With todays designations and yesterdays actions to protect the East and West coasts and the Northern Bering Sea from offshore oil and natural gas drilling, President Biden has now protected 674 million acres of U.S. lands and waters, a White House statement boasted. The move reflects Bidens ambition to leave a green legacy, but it will serve as a bump in the road to Trumps presidential ambitionseven before he takes office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Trump, speaking at Mar-a-Lago Tuesday, addressed Bidens move. He said: They took away 625 million acres of offshore drilling... nobody else does that. Im going to have it revoked on day one. If we need to well go to the courts, if they try to be sneaky... remember this is a man who said he wants the transition to be smooth. You dont do those kind of things. Were going to be drilling soon, he vowed. Biden used the 119-year-old Antiquities Act to protect a vast area of land in southern California / David McNew/Getty Images It comes after Biden invoked 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 Northern 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 Trumps incoming press secretary bemoaned the move, saying it was politically motivated. 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. California Gov. Gavin Newsom previously said that Trumps only interest is pleasing Big Oil CEOs, and the incoming president has blasted the states liberal environmental-led agenda in the past. But politics aside, Bidens plans serve to uphold conservation on a jaw-dropping scale. Chuckwalla National Monument will be a capstone action to create the largest corridor of protected lands in the continental United States, covering nearly 18 million acres stretching approximately 600 miles. It will be known as the Moab to Mojave Conservation Corridor and will stretch from southwestern Utah to southern California, encompassing areas significant to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoplesas well as protecting dozens of plant and animal species. A politically powerful opponent of birthright citizenship railed that the United States cannot give up the right to expel dangerous trespassers who invade [our] borders, wander in gangs, and infest society. Was this Donald Trump speaking in 2024? No, the quote is from an 1866 speech on the Senate floor by Senator Edgar Cowan of Pennsylvania, a leading opponent of adding a provision to the U.S. Constitution granting citizenship based solely on birth on U.S. soil. Who were the invaders that Senator Cowan so feared? I mean the Gypsies, Cowan explained, despite offering no evidence that Roma migration posed a risk to the United States. Senator Cowan lost the fight. In 1868, the nation ratified the Fourteenth Amendment, the first sentence of which guarantees birthright citizenship. The amendment invalidated the Supreme Courts infamous 1857 decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford, which declared that no Black person could ever be a U.S. citizen. Equally important, the Constitution now guaranteed citizenship to the children of immigrants born on U.S. soil, no matter from what quarter of the globe he or his ancestors may have come, as one senator later put it in a speech to his constituents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Martha S. Jones: Birthright citizenship was won by freed slaves] More than 150 years later, Trump has vowed to end birthright citizenship on day one of his new administration for children without at least one parent who is a citizen or green-card holder. He made that announcement in a three-minute video prominently posted on his campaign website, which he repeated in an interview with NBCs Meet the Press last month. In 2025, the end of birthright citizenship is more than just an applause line at the Conservative Political Action Conference. It has a genuine, if slim, chance of making its way into law. If it does, it will upend the lives of millions, and create a caste system in which a new set of peoplenative-born non-Americanscan never work or live in the open. This prospect ought to be taken seriously. How would President Trump implement such a plan? Is it constitutional? And would the U.S. Supreme Court back him up? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first question is easy, because Trump has told us exactly how he intends to proceed. In the video, the president-elect commits to issuing an executive order on January 20, 2025, that would deny citizenship not only to the children of undocumented immigrants but also to those born to parents who both are legally in the United States on a temporary visa for study or work. (Trumps order as proposed would apply only to children born after it is issued.) The consequences would be immediate. Trump says he will order government officials to deny these children passports and Social Security numbers. They will be prohibited from enrolling in federal programs such as Medicaid, the Childrens Health Insurance Program, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and likely state benefits as well. As adults, if all goes according to Trumps plan, they will be barred from voting, holding elected office, and serving on juries. States could deny them a drivers license and block them from attending state universities. They would be prohibited from working in the United States, and any U.S. citizen who employs them could be fined or even jailed under federal immigration laws. Many would be rendered stateless. Perhaps worst of all, they would live in perpetual fear of being deported from the only country in which they have ever lived. [Read: Trumps murky plan to end birthright citizenship] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ending birthright citizenship for these children would affect everyone in America. Everyone would now have to provide proof of their parents citizenship or immigration status on the date of their birth to qualify for the rights and benefits of citizenship. The new law would necessitate an expanded government bureaucracy to scrutinize hospital records, birth certificates, naturalization oaths, and green-card applications. Lawsuits are sure to follow, which leads to the second question: Will Trump have the constitutional authority to end birthright citizenship for the children of undocumented immigrants? Per the text of the Constitution, the answer is a hard no. Some constitutional provisions are fuzzy, but the citizenship clause is not one of them. It 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. Even the deeply racist Supreme Court back in 1898 couldnt find any wiggle room in that language. Just two years before, in 1896, the Court had somehow read the Constitutions equal-protection clause to permit separate but equal in Plessy v. Ferguson, ushering in the Jim Crow era. But when the U.S. government argued in United States v. Wong Kim Ark that the children of Chinese immigrants were not birthright citizens, the justices balked. The language granting citizenship to all persons born in the United States was universal, the Court explained, restricted only by place and jurisdiction. More recently, the Supreme Court reaffirmed that point, stating as an aside in a 1982 opinion addressing the rights of undocumented children to attend school: No plausible distinction with respect to Fourteenth Amendment jurisdiction can be drawn between resident aliens whose entry into the United States was lawful, and resident aliens whose entry was unlawful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the clear text and long-standing judicial precedent, Trump claims that undocumented immigrants and their children are not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and so fall within the exception to universal birthright citizenship. That is nonsense. Undocumented immigrants must follow all federal and state laws. When they violate criminal laws, they are jailed. If they park illegally, they are ticketed. They are required to pay their taxes and renew their drivers license, just like everyone else. Trump certainly agrees that undocumented parents of native-born children can be deported for violating immigration laws at any time. So in what way are these immigrants and their children not subject to U.S. jurisdiction? The citizenship clauses exception for those not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States applies only to children born to members of American Indian tribes and the children of diplomats, as Congress explained when drafting that language in 1866. In contrast with undocumented immigrants, both groups owe allegiance to a separate sovereign, and both are immune from certain state and federal laws. (Native Americans were granted birthright citizenship by federal statute in 1924.) As nonsensical as they are in an American context, Trumps ideas didnt come out of nowhere. In 1985, the law professor Peter Schuck and the political scientist Rogers Smith wrote an influential book, Citizenship Without Consent, arguing that the Fourteenth Amendments citizenship clause did not apply to the children of undocumented immigrants. These scholars asserted that immigration to the United States was entirely unregulated before the 1870s, and so there was no such thing as an illegal immigrant and likewise no intent to grant birthright citizenship to their children. Many scholars and commentators, including some members of Congress, have repeated that same claim. In 2015, the law professor Lino Graglia testified before the House Judiciary Committee that there were no illegal aliens in 1868 because there were no restrictions on immigration. Then-Representative Raul Labrador repeated the same point at that hearing, asserting as fact that there was no illegal immigration when the Fourteenth Amendment came into being. In an op-ed in June 2023, a former Department of Homeland Security policy adviser declared, There were no immigrant parents living unlawfully in the United States in the 19th century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These critics have their facts wrong. In a recent law-review article, the legal scholars Gabriel Chin and Paul Finkelman explained that for decades, Africans were illegally brought to the United States as slaves even after Congress outlawed the international slave trade in 1808, making them the illegal aliens of their day. The nation was well aware of that problem. Government efforts to shut down the slave trade and deport illegally imported enslaved people were widely reported throughout the years leading up to the Civil War. Yet no one credible, then or now, would argue that the children of those slaves were to be excluded from the citizenship clausea constitutional provision intended to overrule Dred Scott v. Sandford by giving U.S. citizenship to the 4.5 million Black people then living in the United States. [Read: Birthright citizenship wasnt born in America] Even so, these ideas have gained traction in the right-wing legal communitya group that will be empowered in Trumps next term. The Fifth Circuit judge James C. Ho, who is regularly floated as a potential nominee to the Supreme Court, recently said in an interview that children of invading aliens are not citizens, because birthright citizenship obviously doesnt apply in case of war or invasiona reversal of his previous position on this issue. (This is the judicial equivalent of shouting, Pick me! Pick me!) Never mind that undocumented immigrantsa majority of whom entered the United States legally and then overstayed their visadont qualify as invaders under any definition of the word. And never mind that there is no support for that idea in either the Constitutions text or its history. In 1866, Senator Cowan opposed granting citizenship to the children of the flood of Chinese immigrants into California, as well as to Gypsy invaders of his own state. His colleagues pointed out that the only invasion of Pennsylvania was by Confederate soldiers a few years before. Birthright citizenship, they explained, would ensure that the United States would never revert back to the slave society that the Confederates invaded Pennsylvania to preserve. In truth, all of these baseless arguments are window dressing for the real goal. The Fourteenth Amendments overarching purpose was to end a caste system in which some people had more rights under the law than others. To be sure, that ideal has always been a work in progress. But many opponents of birthright citizenship dont even hold out that ideal as a goal; they would rather bring caste back, and enshrine it in our laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If birthright citizenship were to end tomorrow for children without at least one parent who was a citizen or lawful permanent resident, it would bar from citizenship hundreds of thousands of people each year. These people wouldnt be eligible to participate in our democracy, and they would be forced to live and work in the shadows, as would their children and their childrens children. The end of birthright citizenship would create a caste of millions of un-Americans, locked in perpetuity into an inferior, exploitable status. Ironically, if Trump were to succeed in ending birthright citizenship, he would preside over the most dramatic increase of undocumented immigrants in U.S. history. That brings us to the third question: Would five members of the Supreme Court uphold Trumps proposed executive order? No sitting justice has addressed this question directly. At his confirmation hearing in 2006, Justice Samuel Alito was asked whether he thought the children of undocumented immigrants qualified for birthright citizenship under the Fourteenth Amendment. He refused to answer on the grounds that a future case might come before him, but he also observed: It may turn out to be a very simple question. It may turn out to be a complicated question. Without studying the question, I dont know. Justice Amy Coney Barrett declined to respond to the same question for the same reason. (These two justices also dodged questions about whether they would overturn Roe v. Wade on those grounds.) The Georgetown law professor Steve Vladeck, an expert on the Supreme Court, believes that, at most, two or maybe even three justices on the current Court would vote to end birthright citizenship. But all it takes is five, and the Courts composition may well change. Trump appointed three justices during his first term in office, and he could appoint a few more before the end of his second. It is they who will have the last word. Article originally published at The Atlantic KILLEEN, Texas (FOX 44) UPDATE: Killeen Police have charged a man with murder and assault in connection to the homicide case on Cunningham Drive in January. Detectives from the Killeen Police Departments Robbery-Homicide Unit investigated this case and presented their findings to the Bell County District Attorneys Office. As a result, two complaints were filed, leading to two arrest warrants issued by Justice of the Peace Nicola James one for Murder and another for Aggravated Assault charging 34-year-old Lemont Diante McKinney. Police say McKinney was already in custody at the Bell County Jail on unrelated charges. Justice of the Peace Cliff Coleman later arraigned him, setting a total bond of $1,200,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Killeen Police officers were originally dispatched to the Best Western Plus located at 2709 Cunningham Road at approximately 1:18 p.m. on Thursday, January 2. This was in reference to multiple 9-1-1 calls about shots being fired. When officers arrived, they found an unconscious woman and a man both suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began life-saving measures on both until paramedics arrived. The 34-year-old man was immediately airlifted to Baylor Scott & White and was conscious and alert. The woman, identified as 28-year-old Jazmien RaeLynn Hernandez, succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:05 p.m. by Justice of the Peace Cliff Coleman. PREVIOUS STORY: Woman killed, man injured, suspect found in Killeen shooting Police say the preliminary investigation revealed that the 34-year-old man was engaged in a verbal altercation with a 32-year-old man outside of the hotel. During the exchange, both individuals fired shots, resulting in injuries to each other and Hernandez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witnesses told officers that the 32-year-old man fled on foot heading south, prompting officers to begin a search of the area. Shortly after, officers were notified that a man arrived at the hospital with gunshot wounds. Officers were able to verify that this was the man who fled on foot. Both men went to the hospital, and were listed 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 KWKT - FOX 44. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A vigil will be held Tuesday night to honor the life of Mark Meadows, a lieutenant at the Irondale Police Department who was killed by an oncoming car while on duty Monday. Meadows, who had been in law enforcement since 1992, will be honored with a vigil at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Irondale City Hall. As part of the vigil, Meadows patrol car will be displayed as a memorial to lay flowers and other items of remembrance. Meadows, 60, was hit by a car while directing traffic at Church of the Highlands at the corner of Grants Mill Road and Overton Road at 7 a.m. Monday. The church was holding its 21 Days of Prayer when a 32-year-old driver hit Meadows. Meadows died at Grandview Medical Center later that morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Tuesday, the driver involved in the crash has not been charged, ALEA reports. The crash remains 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 CBS 42. Mondays certification by Congress of President-elect Donald Trumps victory in the 2024 presidential election was the first official step in the peaceful transfer of power. From outside the White House to the U.S. Capitol, the streets of Washington were blanketed in freshly fallen snow, the wintry scene providing the only complications to members of the House and Senate carrying out their duties to affirm the election results. It was a marked contrast to the same proceedings four years earlier, on Jan. 6, 2021, when Trumps supporters flooded the capital citys streets and, ultimately, the same chamber where federal legislators were attempting to gather and carry out their prescribed duty. That day would ultimately devolve into violence, deaths and hundreds of cases against those charged with unlawful acts related to the attack. Photographers from The Associated Press were present on both days, capturing in real time the violence and aftermath in 2021 and, in 2025, retracing their own steps, visiting the locations around Washington that played key roles on that fateful day and capturing images that make possible a side-by-side comparison of what differences can be marked in just a few years. From the Washington Monument to the White House to the U.S. Capitol, where rioters unleashed the most violent attack on the seat of American legislative power in 200 years, and Congress four years later carried out an uneventful and peaceful certification, the AP was there. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) Virginia Beach police are looking to identify the suspects in an armed robbery of a victim on Monday, police said. Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers Courtesy: Virginia Beach Crime Solvers On Jan. 6, the victim said she was robbed at gunpoint of her car keys by a female friend who set her up, and unknown males. Photos from the incident were posted on Virginia Beach Crime Solvers. If you have any information about this case, you can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, downloading the P3 tips app to a mobile device, or visiting www.P3tips.com and submitting a tip. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News Virginians will vote in the years first special elections, an early test of Democratic and Republican enthusiasm as the Biden administration ends. Democrats are defending a state House and state Senate seat in the DC exurbs, which theyd previously won by 22 points; Republicans are confident about holding the 10th state Senate district, which Trump won by 29 points in November. Both parties mobilized volunteers during the short early vote period, warning of the coming winter storm, which has snarled traffic and closed schools in all three districts. But Democrats were encouraged by high turnout in places where support for Trump was weakest in November, and local and national candidates including Democrats running for DNC chair rallied and helped raise money. Democrats hold a 21-19 seat advantage in the state Senate and a 51-49 seat advantage in the House of Delegates, and losing either suburban seat would empower Gov. Glenn Youngkin in his final year. Even a bitterly cold Monday, Jan. 6, did not stop a steady stream of visitors to Carter Presidential Center, where former President Jimmy Carter lies in repose ahead of his national funeral in Washington D.C. Stanley Dunlap/Georgia Recorder Admirers of former President Jimmy Carter braved frigid temperatures Monday to pay respects to the late president before his six-day funeral procession moves to Washington. Hundreds of people continued to flock to the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta, open since Saturday evening, while Carter lies in repose within a casket draped with the American flag surrounded by a guard of honor provided by the military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Ploss, 93, visited the center on Monday to pay respects to a fellow graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his graduation from the academy, Carter became a Navy pilot several classes before Ploss, who would also become a pilot. The Ploss family members spent the weekend visiting the Carters Habitat for Humanity project in Plains, before completing the trip Monday at the Carter center, said Ploss son, Carl Ploss. Weve been kind of tracking Jimmys spiritual journey here, and this is the last step, obviously, Carl Ploss said. But in a sense, its not the last step, its just the end of the physical journey. Theres a lot that will continue. Carter was in hospice care for nearly two years before he died last month in the Plains home he shared with former first lady Rosalynn Carter, who died in late 2023 at the age of 96. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter admirers toured the Atlanta center that is filled with memorabilia commemorating the life of the longest living president when he died Dec. 29 at the age of 100. Atlantas Chan and Stephanie Parker paid their respects to the late president on Monday, expressing their admiration for his humanitarian efforts and love of music. The common thread connecting many of the visitors at Carters last Georgia public viewing was their gratitude for the late ex-presidents charitable and humanitarian contributions after he left the White House, including more than 30 years working to help Habitat for Humanity build more than 4,000 homes. Atlanta residents Stephanie and Chan Parker visited Carter Presidential Center on Monday, Jan. 6, to pay respects to the late former President Jimmy Carter. Stanley Dunlap/Georgia Recorder The Parkers said that their political views aligned with those espoused by Carter, a Democrat who the Parkers identified as a pillar of character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes a truly great man, a truly great humanitarian, a good person and good president, Stephanie Parker said. He loved music, and I love music. He was just a great person. I dont think well ever see anyone else like him again. The six-day state honors for Carter began on Saturday with a motorcade traversing southwest Georgias countryside before arriving at the state Capitol in downtown Atlanta. The funeral procession stopped along the way outside Carters childhood farm in Archery, where National Park Service rangers rang the same bell a young Jimmy Carter did numerous times growing up. A crowd of people held American flags during the funeral procession that passed through Plains Main Street on Saturday. Four Georgia governors and many other political luminaries from both sides of the political aisle paid their respects to Carter as the hearse carrying the late ex-president made a brief ceremonial stop Saturday in front of the state Capitol. The procession would make its way to the Carter Presidential Center for an evening memorial service followed by the start of public visitation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carters remains will begin a journey at 6 a.m. Tuesday to Washington, D.C., where he will lie in state in the Rotunda of the Capitol before Thursdays funeral service at the National Cathedral. Then, Carter will return to Georgia, where his remains will be buried at his longtime home in Plains, next to his late wife of 77 years. Carters legacy extends well beyond his time in politics, when he served as a state senator and governor in Georgia. He ushered in an increase in the number of Black state government employees following the end of the Civil Rights Movement during the early 1970s. A number of Carters accomplishments during his presidency include diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China, relinquishing control of the Panama Canal and negotiating the Camp David Accords, a 1979 historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Online voting is underway to elect members of the public anti-corruption council at Ukraine's Ministry of Defence. Source: press service for Ukraine's Defence Ministry Details: At 12:00, the press service reported that over 34,000 Ukrainians had cast their votes since 09:00. They stressed that the public's vote will decide who joins the council in order to help assess corruption risks in the Ministry of Defence and contribute to the development of anti-corruption measures for two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Voters can cast their votes only once, selecting up to 15 representatives from 40 candidates. Quote from the Ministry of Defence: "Due to constant enemy attacks on Ukraine's IT infrastructure, voting is restricted to within Ukrainian territory. A specially appointed rapid response team is overseeing the process to ensure its stability and transparency." Details: Meanwhile, users have complained of interruptions and problems loading the voting page. Support UP or become our patron! FAIRFAX COUNTY Va. (DC News Now) Virginia State Police (VSP) are searching for a man who fled the scene of a crash on Interstate 495 in Fairfax County by entering a storm drain Monday. State police said the incident happened on Jan. 6 around 2:40 p.m., as troopers were working on two separate crashes along I-495 near Eisenhower Avenue when a third collision took place. VSP said the state trooper investigating the third crash directed the two vehicles involved to move to the right shoulder. Shortly after, one of the drivers, a man, sped away from the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How much snow did DC get? During the brief chase on the interstate, VSP said the man was involved in another crash. Thats when he allegedly exited his vehicle and started running. According to state police, the man ran into a wooded area and went down a small drainage underneath the interstate, which connected the eastbound side. As the search continued, troopers found the man crawling inside an 18-inch diameter pipe. VSP said the man refused to stop and kept crawling inside the pipe. As a result of the incident, several troopers were stationed across nearby drain covers. Amtrak trains canceled across region after winter storm blasts DMV Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About three hours later, troopers discovered a storm drain opening about three blocks from the entry point. A witness told authorities they noticed someone exiting the manhole 30 minutes earlier. State police identified the man as 38-year-old Victor A. Caneza. VSP obtained warrants for his arrest on felony hit-and-run and felony eluding charges. In an update on Wednesday, Virginia state troopers obtained additional charges of misdemeanor eluding, driving without an operators license, providing false identification to law enforcement, no state vehicle inspection, improper vehicle registration, expired state vehicle registration and driving with an open container. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on Canezas whereabouts is urged to call VSP at 804-750-8798. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. In the eyes of President Joe Biden and much of the world, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia is the rightful next president of Venezuela. Yet hes in Washington this week seeking Americas help making that a reality. Venezuela holds its inauguration on Friday, and strongman ruler Nicolas Maduro is planning to be sworn in. Gonzalez says he, too, intends to be there to take the oath of office if he can reach Venezuelas shores, avoid the $100,000 bounty on his head, and convince Maduro to step aside. The odds are against Gonzalez, but hes doing his best to convince Biden, aides to President-elect Donald Trump and other American leaders to support his cause. In an interview with POLITICO on Monday, the 75-year-old Gonzalez was upbeat about his prospects. He stressed that he wants a peaceful transfer of power in Venezuela, and is not requesting outside military intervention, but he also pointed to some not-quite-analogous examples of transitions that at times felt impossible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look at what happened with Assad, he said, meaning the recently ousted Syrian dictator. Look at what happened with the Libyan government. They fell down one day and disappeared. Gonzalez shared his thoughts after meetings with Biden and Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), whom Trump has tapped to be his national security adviser. Gonzalez whom Maduro forced into exile last September stopped in Washington as part of an international tour to rally global support ahead of the inauguration. Gonzalez said his message to Biden was one of gratitude and a request for more support for the Venezuelan people. He wouldnt go into specifics about what that meant, but the possibilities include more sanctions and more legal targeting of Maduro and his aides on criminal matters. They know what they have to do. We don't have to give lessons to the U.S. administration, Gonzalez said. They have done a lot. Its not sufficient. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And what did Biden pledge to him? We will do whatever we can. The Biden administration in November recognized the oppositions victory, and the White House readout of Bidens meeting with Gonzalez referred to him as Venezuelas president-elect. According to the readout, Biden underscored the U.S. commitment to continue to hold Maduro and his representatives accountable for their anti-democratic and repressive actions. Still, even with U.S. backing, Gonzalez and the rest of Venezuelas opposition face many barriers, not the least of which is that Venezuelas armed forces continue to support Maduro. The strongman has outlasted previous efforts to push him from power, including a push six years ago under the first Trump administration. On Tuesday morning, Gonzalez son-in-law was abducted in Caracas by hooded men, he wrote on social media. It was a chilling reminder of the stakes involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gonzalez has not been able to get a meeting with Trump, but his aides are in touch with people in Trumps orbit in the hopes of influencing the incoming U.S. presidents thinking. Gonzalez indicated that his conversations with the incoming national security adviser gave him hope. Waltz, as a lawmaker from Florida, is well-aware of issues involving Latin America and its diaspora. He's very kind and very clever and very sympathetic to our cause, Gonzalez said. The United States has over several years imposed many economic sanctions on Caracas, but theres more the U.S. can do on both sanctions and other fronts, especially when it comes to targeting Venezuelas energy sector. Venezuelas chaos has many implications for U.S. national security. Venezuela is an oil giant with ties to U.S. adversaries such as China and Russia. Its problems exacerbated a migration crisis on Americas southern border. Its government is widely seen as a criminal enterprise that has wrecked the countrys economy. Venezuela also often detains Americans and other foreigners to use as bargaining chips in international negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waltz and others who plan to work for Trump in his second term, including secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio, a Republican senator from Florida, have often taken tough stances against Maduro and backed the opposition forces in Venezuela. During his first term, Trump rallied many other countries to refuse to recognize Maduros highly questionable win in a previous election. Through a Venezuelan constitutional mechanism, the U.S. declared that another opposition leader, Juan Guaido, was the countrys interim president. That effort eventually fizzled out. The situation in Venezuela is arguably more complicated now, and Maduro more entrenched. Trump also is keen on maintaining low oil prices and lowering migration to the United States, so his policy toward Caracas could be affected by what further pressuring the country could do on those fronts. He might be hesitant, for instance, to impose more sanctions on Venezuela if it could mean more people flee the country and head to the United States. At the same time, Trump has pledged to crack down on migrants already in the United States. That could include stripping various groups, including Venezuelans, of legal protections that permit them to stay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked what he would advise Trump when it came to dealing with the Venezuelan migrants in the United States, Gonzalez said: Help us to get rid of Maduro, and when that happens, the Venezuelans who left the country will be back again to Venezuela. Gonzalez, a retired diplomat, was named the oppositions presidential candidate after the movements leader, Maria Corina Machado was barred from running. The Venezuelan opposition published extensive voter data showing Gonzalez handily defeated Maduro in the July 28 presidential election. But Maduro refused to concede and his government has cracked down on opposition activists in the months since. Maduro and his loyalists control all key state institutions in Venezuela. Gonzalez decided he had to leave Venezuela in September when the government issued an arrest warrant for him, accusing him of several crimes. He went to Spain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days ago, Maduro offered a $100,000 reward for information on Gonzalezs location. Gonzalez nonetheless said Monday that he will reach his countrys inauguration Friday by any means possible by plane, by ship, by road, by cycle. Machado herself is believed to be somewhere in Venezuela, though in hiding. She has called for protests to be held on Thursday in Venezuela, and she herself may make an appearance. Gonzalez is continuing to visit other countries in the hemisphere and said he will not be at the Thursday rally. According to the White House, Biden said he would be following the Thursday protests closely, and that Venezuelans should be allowed to express their political opinions peacefully without fear of reprisal from the military and police. Gonzalez had a long career as a diplomat including a stint in Washington, where his daughter was born, more than 40 years ago. He enjoyed walking in Rock Creek Park, he said, calling the posting one of the most interesting he held. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked why he agreed to take on the mantle of opposition presidential candidate at this stage in life, he struck a patriotic note. I did it for my country, he said. I mean, I could have stayed at home, watching Netflix and TV and things like that, and going out to the beach on weekends, but I think this is the moment to act. After years of economic deprivation and political repression, do the Venezuelan people still have the energy to oust the strongman? The people are fed up, are tired of the regime, he said. A transition is inevitable, and, as far as the oppositions role goes, it will be peaceful, Gonzalez argued. If its not this week, it will be next week, it will be next month, he said. But it will happen, sooner rather than later. MIDLAND/ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)-This week, the coldest weather of the 2024-25 winter season has moved into the region, causing temperatures to fall below freezing at night. As the cold weather begins to roll in, warming shelters will become available for those in need. The National Weather Service reported low temperatures in the 20s this week. High temperatures will range from the lower 40s to the lower 30s on Wednesday. The NWS also called for a 20% chance of snow on Wednesday and a 50% chance on Thursday in both the Midland/Odessa areas. These temperatures can be dangerous in prolonged exposure. Here you will find the information for shelters in both Midland and Odessa to help stay warm. Midland: The City of Midland provided information on the four cold weather warming centers for those who will need them. Listed below are the shelters, and where people can find them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MLK Jr. Community Center on 2300 Butternut Lane will be open from 9 AM to 9 PM on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Wednesday and Friday will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Saturday, it will be open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Call (432) 685-7376 for more information. The Breaking Bread Kitchen on 410 East Flordia Avenue will be open Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 6:30 PM. The shelter will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. Call (432) 689-2339 for more information. The Salvation Army of Midland on 600 East Wall Street will be open Monday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Friday will be open from 8:30 AM to 3 PM. For more information call (432) 683-3614. The Midland Soup Kitchen Ministry on 1401 Orchard Lane will be open Monday to Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 1 PM. Call (432) 686-7687 for more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ODESSA: The City of Odessa also provided a list of places people can go to during these dangerously cold temperatures. Salvation Army of Odessa on 810 East. 11th Street will be active when the temperatures drop below 32 degrees. The Overnight shelter is open from intake from 5 pm to 9 pm. Connection Christian Church of Odessa on 4241 Tanglewood Lane will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 6 pm. Jesus House Odessa on 1335 East 6th Street: Hot meals will be served from Tuesday to Thursday. Produce may be subject to change as delivery trucks wont be coming in this week. Breakfast will be served from 6 am to 6:30 am and lunch from 11 am to 12 pm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Free blankets and coats are also available for those in need. Jesus House will be open Tuesday from 6:30 am to 12:30 pm. Stay tuned here for any time changes. The City of Odessa also asked residents to remember the three Ps: People, Pets, and Pipes. People: Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly or those without reliable hearing. Pets: Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have warm shelter. This is a Texas State law. Pipes: Protect your pipes by insulating them, letting faucets drip, and opening cabinets to allow warm air to circulate. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. Sen. Mark Warner (Va.), the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said that his meeting with former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii) has left him with more questions as she looks to win confirmation in the coming weeks to lead the U.S. intelligence community. Warner sat down with Gabbard, Trumps pick for director of national intelligence, on Wednesday, a meeting that had been highly anticipated as part of her push to win Democratic support. But Warner, who is expected to remain the top Democrat on the Intelligence panel in the new Congress, indicated that he remains concerned about her nomination, putting a dent in those hopes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had questions going in. I have questions coming out, Warner told reporters at the Capitol. This is an extraordinarily important job, he continued. A lot of this [is] also about protecting the independence of the intelligence community and making sure we continue to have the ability to share classified information with our allies. When asked if she is fit for the job, Warner noted that Monday was his first chance to ask Gabbard questions and that this is still the beginning of the process. I have a lot of questions, he added. It remains unclear when Gabbards confirmation hearing will take place. Warner and Democrats have pressed pause on the committees push to hold her hearing as early as next week and say they have not received her FBI background check, ethics disclosure or a pre-hearing questionnaire yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warner noted that standard practice is that committee members receive the background check a week before a hearing. Theres no delay, Warner maintained after Axios reported the hearing could be delayed. We do it by the book. Wait for an FBI background check, we ask her questions. One of the other nominees has got all of his materials in so were scheduling the hearing, he continued, pointing to John Ratcliffe, Trumps nominee to lead the CIA. The thing I take great pride on in this Intel Committee, its been bipartisan. We do it the same way no matter which team is in the majority and everyone will get a fair hearing. Theres some flexibility there, Warner added about the week buffer. But most every time I remember peoplehave said we want the full week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source familiar with the process noted that the background check should be complete shortly and expedited as Gabbard already holds a security clearance. They also believe her ethics disclosure will be resolved soon, and noted that the Office of Government Ethics has been closed Monday and Tuesday due to the snowstorm. The pre-hearing questionnaire also has not been sent to Gabbard as of yet. Chairman Cotton intends to hold these hearings before Inauguration Day. The Intelligence Committee, the nominees, and the transition are diligently working toward that goal, a Cotton spokesperson said in a statement. The sit-down with Warner was the third Gabbard has held with a Senate Democrat. Sens. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), an Intelligence Committee member, have already met with her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also met Wednesday morning with Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) as she continues her tour of Capitol Hill offices. Tuberville, a top Trump ally, plans to support Gabbard, but he noted that there could be trouble coming down the pike for her, especially with her confirmation hearings set to begin soon. Shes just now starting, so well see. I would hope not, but you never know with this bunch, Tuberville said. Trump needs to get up here and throw the gavel down on them. Gabbard has long been considered among the nominees facing the toughest odds in winning confirmation. The Hill reported last month that she failed to impress a number of Senate Republicans during private meetings, raising questions about her viability as a nominee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike a number of Trump backers, Senate Republicans are still widely supportive of Ukraine, and the conference includes a number of defense hawks whose views clash directly with various comments Gabbard has made over the years, including those viewed as sympathetic to Moscow. Her 2017 meeting with ex-Syrian President Bashar Assad has also come under the microscope, especially after he was overthrown last month. However, some on the committee of jurisdiction believe shes in a good spot. I think shes moving in the right direction. I really do, Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) said. I think shes had some good meetings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes a very quick study and I think she will do well in her open hearings, and I think thats the key for her to show to the president that shes got everything put together and shes ready to go, he added. Updated at 3:28 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 The Hill. WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) A Warren man is facing criminal charges stemming from the overdose death of a teenage girl in Champion. Nysier Coleman, 19, was arraigned Tuesday on charges of involuntary manslaughter and corrupting someone with drugs, both felonies. A judge set Colemans bond at $20,000. Colemans arraignment comes over two months after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Police say the charges come after the investigation into the March overdose death of 17-year-old Samantha Noble in Champion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the scourge of our earth that is preying upon these kids and these victims and its just horrifying. Heres a young girl in the prime of her life and she was victimized, said Champion Police Chief Larry Skaggs. Using electronic surveillance and with assistance from the TAG drug task force, police say they were able to trace it back to Coleman. We learned that he was the drug dealer that supplied her the fatal dose, Skaggs said. We were able to show that night he had met with her, supplied her the fatal dose and even had sent her a message later on asking how she liked that dose. Chief Skaggs says investigators took this case personally, spending hundreds of hours working on it. The investigation is not over. There could be other charges coming for other participants, other people that also facilitated into this. As for Coleman, hes scheduled to be back in Warren Municipal Court on Jan. 14. 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. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Washington Attorney General and Governor-elect Bob Ferguson filed a lawsuit against T-Mobile on Monday, claiming security failures by the company led to a massive data breach. The lawsuit, filed in King County Superior Court, alleges that T-Mobile knew about certain cybersecurity vulnerabilities for years, but did not do enough to address them. Additionally, Ferguson argues that the company misrepresented how the company prioritizes the personal data it collects, and that T-Mobile failed to properly notify Washingtonians who were impacted by the breach by downplaying its severity and sending notices to affected consumers that did not disclose all the information that had been compromised, the Attorney Generals Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: New luxury hotel proposed for Oregon Coast property with $3 million view This significant data breach was entirely avoidable, Ferguson said in a statement. T-Mobile had years to fix key vulnerabilities in its cybersecurity systems and it failed. According to the Attorney Generals Office, T-Mobile discovered that a hacker gained access to its internal network in August of 2021, and exposed personal information of nearly 80 million customers, including 2 million Washingtonians. Of the 2 million Washingtonians who had their data breached, officials said over 180,000 had their Social Security numbers compromised. Other compromised data included phone numbers, names, addresses, and drivers license information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cow escapes, swims Columbia, runs on I-84, caught near Hood River According to the Attorney Generals Office, the data breach started in March 2021 and continued until August 12, 2021. Because of a lack of adequate security monitoring, T-Mobile was unaware of the breach until an anonymous outside source told the company that customer data was posted for sale on the dark web, the lawsuit alleges. T-Mobile customers received brief text messages from the company, alerting them of the breach; however, the messages left out critical and legally required information, according to the Attorney Generals Office, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KOIN Morning Digest Additionally, current customers whose Social Security numbers were exposed did not receive any information on that exposure, the state alleges. Years before August 2021, T-Mobile did not meet industry standards for cybersecurity and knew about these vulnerabilities, the Attorney Generals Office claims, noting filings with the federal Securities and Exchange Commission in 2020 said T-Mobile was a target of numerous cyberattacks. The lawsuit alleges that the security failures violated Washingtons Consumer Protection Act and that the 2021 data breach was a direct result of T-Mobiles lack of accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legacy nurses at 3 Oregon hospitals announce intent to unionize The suit seeks civil penalties and restitution for the victims, along with an injunctive relief to require the company to improve its cybersecurity policies and cybersecurity communication to customers. In a statement to KOIN 6 News on Monday, T-Mobile called the lawsuit a surprise. We have had multiple conversations about this incident from 2021 with the Washington AGs office over the last several years and even reached out in late November to continue discussions, so the offices decision to file a lawsuit today came as a surprise, T-Mobile said. While we disagree with their approach and the filings claims, we are open to further dialogue and welcome the opportunity to resolve this issue, as we have already done with the FCC. We also look forward to sharing how T-Mobile has fundamentally transformed our approach to cyber security over the past four years to further protect our customers. 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 KOIN.com. WASHINGTON (AP) The nation's capital is often not a place that handles winter weather well. Cold-weather transplants complain about the inability of local drivers to navigate snowy roads and the tendency of the school systems to shut down at the first sign of falling flakes. Now the ceremonial pomp of Washington is colliding with the circumstance of a major snow storm, forecast to dump up to a foot in some places by Monday night. The weather adds an unexpected layer of complexity to what was already a challenging two-week stretch for local officials. For the first time, the District of Columbia is hosting three designated National Special Security Events in a two-week span: Monday's congressional certification of President-elect Donald Trump's electoral win, this week's state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter and then Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has never happened before, said Matt McCool of the Secret Service's Washington field office. The special security event designation is reserved for events that draw large crowds and potential mass protests. It calls for an enhanced degree of high-level coordination among D.C. officials, the FBI, Secret Service, Capitol Police and Washington's National Guard contingent. The certification, which has historically been a low-profile ministerial proceeding, was elevated to National Special Security Event after the chaotic riot of Jan. 6, 2021. This time, that process progressed smoothly Monday afternoon, amid security restrictions that, according to McCool, mimicked those of a presidential State of the Union address. The Washington, D.C., area is well-versed in these high-profile events, McCool told reporters last week. Still back-to-back NSSEs are a unique situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the certification out of the way, officials now turn to this week's elaborate multi-day state funeral proceedings for Carter. That rolls straight into preparations for the Jan. 20 inauguration with officials on alert for potential clashes between Trump's supporters and opponents; there's an anti-Trump People's March scheduled for Saturday the 18th and a pro-Trump rally planned for Sunday the 19th. We are committed to upholding the right to peacefully assemble and protest in our city, Metropolitan Police Department chief Pamela Smith said. However we will not tolerate any violence, rioting, destruction of property or any behavior that threatens the safety and security of our city. Smith said she has placed her department on full activation starting Sunday, Jan. 5, positioning additional officers with specialized training that can be deployed anywhere in the District at a moment's notice. McCool also warned D.C. residents to get used to the sight of numerous security and surveillance drones in the next two weeks. The entire District of Columbia is normally a no-fly zone for drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ashley Preston, an associate history professor at D.C.'s Howard University, also cited the specific tensions of this page in American history as adding a layer of anxiety to the proceedings. That includes the deep and angry political divisions that frame Trump's second term and the two New Year's attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas. The passing of a former president, and the memorial events that happen afterwards are normal, but the country finds itself in a peculiar moment where political tension is high, which makes everything seem different, Preston said in an email. Preston added that her confidence in authorities to handle the events has honestly been shaken by what I saw on Jan. 6, 2021. If the next few weeks go smoothly, my confidence will be somewhat restored. The most immediate question is whether the snowfall will prevent visitors from coming to town to pay their respects to Carter. According to tracking platform FlightAware.com, more than 1,200 flights were canceled or delayed Monday in and out of Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C. More than 480 flights were delayed or canceled at Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the completion of memorial services in his native Georgia, Carter's casket will arrive in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Ceremonies, which continue through Thursday, will include a horse-drawn funeral procession Tuesday afternoon that may echo images from the chilly Nov. 22, 1963, procession for John F. Kennedy. While those events are still scheduled, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management announced late Monday that federal offices in the D.C. area would be closed again Tuesday. The snowfall already has prompted changes in standard White House operating procedure: Instead of flying aboard the Marine One helicopter on Monday, President Joe Biden was forced to drive to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland to board Air Force One. In a move reminiscent of secret presidential trips to war zones, Bidens trip to New Orleans and Los Angeles began inside a hangar, rather than on the tarmac as is customary, due to the inclement weather. Air Force One was sheltered from the snow inside a secure hangar and Biden departed during an early afternoon lull in the snowfall. ___ Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Fatima Hussein and Darlene Superville in Washington, and John Raby in Charleston, West Virginia, contributed to this report. WASHINGTON, Ill. (WMBD) A long-awaited brewpub may finally be coming to Washington Square, after years of development. Tangled Roots Brewpub has been in development since 2022, with the nearly $9 million project potentially being a sales tax revenue generator for the city. But the brewpub has run into several issues since its inception, including legal battles with neighboring property owners, as well as other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any time you tear down two buildings that are in the middle of two older buildings, its a challenge. There were water issues there. We had to get new water and sewer systems put into that space. It just takes time, said Mayor Gary Manier, who defended the developers during Mondays city council meeting. At issue was a payment of $51,642 that would reimburse the developers interest costs incurred in 2023 and 2024. Per the TIF Act, the developer can be reimbursed for interest costs. Some council members expressed concerns about the delayed opening of the brewpub, with John Blundy saying it was meant to be open by December 2023. Its been more than a year since then, and he raised worry over the lost sales tax revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I fully support the project, but I just want some accountability from the developers, he said. Blundy was joined by Lilija Stevens in supporting tabling the item, saying the city needs to defer payments until its opened. The motion ultimately failed, and city council approved the payment. Manier said the developers have been working diligently to get the restaurant open, and supply chain issues have impacted its opening. Planning and development director Jon Oliphant said the city also would have still been on the hook for the payment even if the brewpub opened in 2023. Manier also downplayed the brewpubs legal issues, saying the neighboring property owner and the developers are close to an agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just a difference of so many inches or feet on the second story fire escape. So, were (the city) not involved in that to this point and hopefully we wont get dragged into it, he said. Manier projects the brewpub will be open sometime in March and is happy for it to finally come to the city. He brought up Tangled Roots restaurants such as The Lone Buffalo in Ottawa and Lock and Mule in Lockport. They have great food. Its not all about the alcohol. Its about the food. So, were excited about the restaurant in Washington, he said. The developers will no longer be eligible for TIF fund reimbursement after Dec. 31, 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 CIProud.com. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) Two injured boaters and their dog were rescued over the weekend after Hillsborough County deputies found them hanging onto a buoy in the middle of the water. The boaters were left stranded on Saturday, Jan. 4 after their boat hit a wake from a cruise ship near Gadsden Point and sank, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office. 4 rescued from sinking boat off coast of Florida, Coast Guard says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The HCSOs Aviation and Marine sections, along with HCSO Fire Rescue and the Coast Guard went out to search for the boaters after the accident. Authorities said the two people and their dog were able to swim to a buoy, where searchers found them just as the sun was setting around 6 p.m. The sheriffs office said both people sustained injuries from the crash. They were rescued and taken to Tampa General Hospital. Our teams coordinated response with other agencies led to the successful rescue of two people who desperately needed help, said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. We will continue to work together to protect lives on our waterways. 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. An avalanche barreled down a Utah mountain range over the weekend, coating vehicles with the white stuff. Many regions, including the Beehive State, are currently experiencing heavy snowfall as a result of a massive winter storm rolling through the Midwest, East Coast and beyond. Tens of millions of Americans from Kansas to Washington, D.C. were under winter storm advisories. As the amount of snow increases, so does the possibility of an avalanche. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Little Cottonwood Canyon about 10 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, traffic had already slowed to a stop because of heavy snow on Saturday when an avalanche hit the area. Footage captured by a driver shows the avalanche as it cascades down the mountain slope toward vehicles on the 13-mile road stretch. Nobody is believed to have been hurt. Video shows avalanche coat Utah roadway in snow The Utah Department of Transportation for the Cottonwood Canyons closed State Route 210, writing in an X post that "avalanche mitigation & road operations" would continue, and the estimated time of operation was unknown. "Slides have hit the road, crews clearing where they can," the department wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The highway was open by Sunday morning, with the department warning drivers of travel delays after avalanche mitigation and road operations were complete. Road Closure Update SR-210 OPEN: @UDOTAvy avalanche mitigation & @UtahDOT road operations complete. Expect travel delays to @SnowbirdAlerts @AltaCentral @AltaAlerts this AM. You may be in fully stopped traffic after the road opens until the traffic queue clears. pic.twitter.com/zOVWjhArFy UDOT Cottonwood Canyons (@UDOTcottonwoods) January 5, 2025 The National Weather Service alerted residents of a "Pacific Northwest storm system" moving through the area early Saturday and into Sunday, bringing with it "much colder temperatures" and "significant snow accumulations" for the mountains of northern Utah, according to an X post. Snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches were expected in the northern mountains, with "locally higher amounts in the Upper Cottonwoods," the weather service said. The Utah Avalanche Center issued a "high" avalanche danger warning for Salt Lake area mountains on Sunday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snowpack does not like rapid change and your best bet to enjoy this newest snow is to stay out of avalanche terrain and stick to lower angle slopes less than 30 degrees in steepness, said the Avalanche Center. Contributing: Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Watch avalanche barrel toward Utah drivers as snow inundates area SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) KRON4 News will bring you special coverage of the San Francisco mayor inauguration on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Nonprofit founder and heir to the Levis Strauss fortune, Daniel Lurie was elected as the citys 46th mayor in last Novembers election. Barbara Lee files paperwork to run for Oakland mayor Lurie defeated incumbent Mayor London Breed and a host of other contenders through the citys ranked choice voting system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KRON4 will bring you coverage of Luries inauguration on air and online beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday through 1 p.m. KRON4s Grant Lodes and Vicki Liviakis will be anchoring the coverage with special guests while KRON4s reporters bring you team coverage from around the city. After being sworn in at City Hall Wednesday morning, Lurie is expected to attend an evening celebration at a banquet hall in SFs Chinatown. Watch or stream the SF mayor inauguration this Wednesday, Jan. 8 on KRON4 News and at kron4.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 KRON4. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Police are looking for the individuals who broke into several vehicles outside the I-Bank building in East Memphis on New Years Eve. MPD said on December 31, 2024, at 8:40 a.m., officers responded to an auto burglary at the business in the 5000 block of Poplar Avenue. When they arrived, they were told several vehicles were broken into and vandalized in the parking lot. I-Bank on Poplar Avenue. Courtesy: MPD Police have released a surveillance video of one of the break-ins. In the video, you can see one of the suspects dive into the drivers side window of a pickup truck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man shot in exchange of gunfire at Churchs Chicken Investigators said the suspects, who were in a white four-door sedan, may also be responsible for an auto burglary in the 700 block of 799 Truse Parkway, I-Bank car burglaries (MPD) If you recognize the vehicle or have any information that can 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. ADAIR, Iowa A semi went up in flames on Interstate 80 near Adair Monday evening and reignited early Tuesday morning. At around 6:30 p.m. Monday emergency crews were called to Interstate 80 near mile marker 76, just south of Adair on a report of a semi on fire in the westbound lanes. When firefighters arrived on scene they found a semi engulfed in large flames. Iowas congressional delegation reacts to election certification, policy priorities The westbound lanes of I-80 were shut down and traffic was detoured so firefighters could work on extinguishing the flames. The closure lasted for several hours. At around 10 p.m. the westbound lanes of I-80 were reopened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Adair Police Department, the driver was able to safely escape the semi. The fire is believed to have started in the engine or cab area before spreading to the trailer, police said. The fire was visible again on the Iowa DOT cameras Tuesday morning. Iowa State Trooper Ryan DeVault said the fire department decided to let the semi and trailer burn out on its own because putting water on the fire was creating dangerous conditions due to the water freezing on the road. Iowa 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 who13.com. A dog bite expert was back on the stand Tuesday morning as the high-profile Karen Read murder case returned to court for another pre-retrial hearing. Good morning from Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham where I'm seated with other reporters in the jury box for a pretrial hearing in the Karen Read case. We are in the same courthouse as the first trial. The bulk of today's hearing will be focused on Dr. Marie Russell's Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) January 7, 2025 The hearing is being held in Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court. WATCH LIVE: Dog bite expert grilled by prosecution as Karen Read murder case returns to court WATCH LIVE: Dog bite expert in Karen Read murder case back on stand after recess. WATCH LIVE: Dog bite expert in Karen Read case faces more questions about John O'Keefe's injuries following afternoon recess. Posted by Boston 25 News on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 WATCH LIVE: Dog bite expert grilled by prosecution as Karen Read murder case returns to court. WATCH LIVE: Prosecution continues questioning of dog bite expert as Karen Read hearing returns from morning recess. Posted by Boston 25 News on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 WATCH LIVE: Dog bite expert back on stand as Karen Read case returns to court. WATCH LIVE: The battle over testimony from the defense's dog bite expert continues as the Karen Read murder case returns to court. Posted by Boston 25 News on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 Read is accused of hitting her Boston police officer boyfriend John OKeefe with her Lexus SUV on Jan. 29, 2022, and leaving him to die in the snow outside the Canton home of fellow Boston officer Brian Albert after a night of drinking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Marie Russell, a dog bite expert who testified for Reads defense team during her first trial, was being questioned by the prosecution. Russell underwent questioning by the defense in December. Brennan says Dr. Russell used "no science or standard" to determine the cause of John O'Keefe's arm injuries, "the truth is you dont know," Brennan says. Dr. Russell responds, "I disagree with that" Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) January 7, 2025 The defense wants to bring Russell back as a key witness for Reads second trial, which Judge Beverly Cannone agreed to delay until April 2025, but the prosecution wants to block that. Russell previously testified that the holes found in OKeefes hoodie and the wounds to his arm were from a dog. Russells opinion is that OKeefes injuries do not appear to have been caused by a vehicle. Those wounds were inflicted by a dog attack, said Russell, former police officer and emergency room doctor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defense has sought to portray Read as the victim, saying OKeefe was actually killed inside the Albert family home and then dragged outside and left for dead. Special prosecutor Hank Brennan wants to block Russell from taking the stand at Reads retrial because he says her testimony has changed since the last time she was on the stand. Special Prosecutor Hank Brennan's questioning is focused on Dr. Marie Russell's use of the word "possibly" in her previous testimony about wounds on John O'Keefe's being dog bites. Brennan says Dr. Russell's opinion is "subjective". Dr Russell responds that she has years of Ted Daniel (@TedDanielnews) January 7, 2025 During the December hearing, Brennan only got an hour to question Russell. His questioning will pick back up on Tuesday. Reads first trial ended with a hung jury this past summer. RELATED: Karen Read prosecutors want testimony about Jennifer McCabes Google searches excluded from retrial Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karen Read prosecutors ask judge to seal documents connected to unrelated criminal case Prosecution in Karen Read case turns over 4 pieces of evidence to defense, new court filing shows 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 Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill (R) held a press conference Tuesday afternoon to provide an update on the investigation of the New Years Day attack in New Orleans that killed at least 14 people. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street earlier this month, which is being investigated as a domestic terrorist event after a pro-ISIS flag was found in the vehicle. Jabbar, a former Army soldier from Texas, was killed by police after he opened fire on the officers. President Biden visited Louisiana Monday, offering his condolences to the victims. He also touted New Orleans as a city that defines strength and resilience, you define it. Whether its in the form of this attack or hurricanes or superstorms, this city is people get back up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Murrill was expected to go over the states review of the security measures put in place on New Years Eve, according to the announcement. The event was scheduled to begin at 12:15 p.m. EST. Watch the video replay 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 The Hill. North Korea has tested a new hypersonic missile, which Kim Jong-un said would help deter its Pacific rivals, state media reported on Tuesday. The test came two weeks before the inauguration of Donald Trump, the US president-elect, who has previously tried to woo North Korea. It coincided with Antony Blinkens visit to the South. Kim, who oversaw the launch, said in comments carried by KCNA, the state news agency: The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KCNA cited the use of a new compound of carbon fibre in the missiles engine, which experts warned could allow Pyongyang to hit further targets with technology to which only the US, Russia and China currently have access. The launch also used a new comprehensive and effective method for its flight and guidance control system, KCNA said. The test came as Mr Blinken, the US secretary of state, visited strategic ally South Korea, a fierce rival of the North, with whom it technically remains at war. The envoy, now in Tokyo, was expected to address issues surrounding Pyongyang in talks with Japan later on Tuesday. The launch used a new comprehensive and effective method for its flight and guidance control system - SHUTTERSTOCK It was North Koreas first launch since late last year, when it test-fired what it said was its most advanced and powerful solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim said in a statement that the latest missile flew for 1,500 kilometres (930 miles) beyond the 1,100km (680-mile) figure given by South Koreas military and travelled at 12 times the speed of sound before landing in the ocean. He said: This is clearly a plan and effort for self-defence, not an offensive plan and action. However, he added that the missiles performance could not be ignored worldwide, saying it was able to deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier. Kim said: The development of the defence capabilities of the DPRK aiming to be a military power will be further accelerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Images released by KCNA showed him observing the launch with Ju Ae, his teenage daughter, at an undisclosed location. The location of the test site was also undisclosed, but images of the launch showed the missile blasting off from a remote piece of land surrounded by water on either side and trees stripped because of the winter cold. Images released by KCNA showed Kim observing the launch with Ju Ae, his teenage daughter - AFP Mr Blinken and Cho Tae-yul, his South Korean counterpart, condemned the launch at a joint news conference, at which the US diplomat said it showed the importance of deepening a three-way alliance with Japan. He also warned of growing cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, saying they were working ever more closely on advanced space technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Blinken also voiced renewed concern that Russia, a veto-wielding UN Security Council member, would formally accept North Korea as a nuclear state in a major blow to global consensus that Pyongyang must end its programme. The nuclear envoys of South Korea, the US and Japan also held a phone call on Monday to condemn the launch, the news agency Yonhap said. 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 water boil advisory remains in effect in Richmond, Virginia, after a winter storm-related power outage impacted operations at a water treatment plant, officials said. The Richmond water treatment plant lost power early Monday and flooded due to a malfunction of the IT system, officials said. Water production halted due to the flood, causing disruptions to the water service for some residents and businesses in Richmond, the state's capital. Water service has since been restored, the city announced Tuesday afternoon, though residents are urged to continue to conserve water when possible while the water pressure builds back up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Cold weather alerts from New Mexico to Florida, with another winter storm expected A water boil advisory issued Monday afternoon for all residents served by the city's water system also remains in effect "until all required testing is complete and approved in accordance with drinking water quality standards," the city said in a press release. The water boil advisory could be lifted by Wednesday afternoon, Richmond Mayor Danny Avula said during a press briefing Tuesday morning while efforts were underway to restore the water service. "I know this is a really challenging time to figure out how to operate without water, but I ask for your continued patience," Avula said during the press briefing. "Things are looking good for today, and we will continue to work tirelessly to make sure that we have restored full service to the people in the city as we wait for the boiled water advisory to lift." PHOTO: Water boils in this undated stock photo. (STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images) The city of Richmond delivered more than 37,000 liters of water Tuesday to public water distribution sites and "high priority areas," including senior living facilities, public housing and homeless services providers, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water service is also being impacted in eastern Henrico County, where there is low or no water pressure due to the combined effects of water services being rerouted from Richmond's water plant and a water main break, county officials said. Water service there is expected to be restored by Tuesday afternoon, and a boil water advisory is not in effect in Henrico, county officials said. MORE: Major winter storm slams mid-Atlantic, closing schools and canceling flights: Latest A state of emergency was issued in Virginia in advance of the major winter storm, which brought snow and freezing rain to parts of the state Sunday into Monday. Chilling temperatures are now impacting the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 50,000 customers remain without power as of midday Tuesday. Schools in the Virginia capital remained closed on Tuesday due to inclement weather, after shuttering on Monday as well. Water boil advisory in effect for Richmond, Virginia, after storm impacts treatment plant originally appeared on abcnews.go.com CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Several lanes are closed on Fairview Road in south Charlotte due to a water main break, according to local authorities. Charlotte Water reported the closure around 7 a.m. on Tuesday at Carmel Road. Drivers in the area are encouraged to find alternate routes. As of 2:30 p.m., both westbound lanes of Fairview are closed from Carmel Road to Valencia Terrace, and one eastbound lane is closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials believe there is also black ice in the area caused by the cold temperatures and the water main break. Track issues along your commute with the QCN Traffic Interactive Map Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. UPDATE: Watertown Police have sent an update on the missing girl. It said that she was located safely in an update sent just after 12:35 p.m. They thanked the public for their assistance in the matter. WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) The Watertown Police Department is seeking the publics assistance in locating a missing 13-year-old girl. According to the police, Livia White was reported as a runaway from Keyes Avenue in the City of Watertown. Authorities said she left between 10:30 p.m. Sunday, January 5 and 5:30 a.m. Monday, January 6. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NYSP in Massena are looking for Marcus A. Shatraw She is a white female with shoulder-length brown hair that has blue highlights and hazel eyes. White is 5-feet, 7-inches tall and weighs around 180 pounds according to police. She was last seen wearing blue checkered pajama bottoms and a white hoodie. The police said that she also has a gray Jansport backpack and was possibly picked up by a male to travel to Pennsylvania. The Watertown Police are asking anyone that has seen or know her location to call (315) 782-2233. (Courtesy of Watertown Police 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 WWTI - InformNNY.com. (WSPA) A system moving into the area Friday will bring freezing rain and snow to the Upstate and western North Carolina. Current weather models show precipitation overspreading the area late Friday morning and into the early afternoon with snow and wintry mix continuing through early Saturday morning. Areas along and south of Interstate 85 could see up to an inch of snow and sleet and up to a quarter-inch of ice during the storm while areas north of Interstate 85 in the Upstate could see 1-3 of snow and sleet along with some ice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Areas in the mountains could see up to six inches of snow. After precipitation wraps up, any lingering effects could stuck around through the day, including icy roads. Cold temperatures Saturday night will could cause black ice due to refreezing of any melted snow or ice. Snow and ice could cause power outages across the Upstate. Any small changes in the storms track could have a big effect on snow or ice totals. The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning for northeast Georgia, western North Carolina and the Upstate. The warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday. Officials said that snow and ice could impact road conditions and possibly cause scattered power outages. Schools have announced schedule changes ahead of the storm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will continue tracking the storm and provide updates as the storm approaches. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. He's 25 now, but Akron resident Hsa Myint Win remembers well his days in the Mae La refugee camp, one of nine in Thailand. Tens of thousands of Karen who have fled persecution in Myanmar are living in the camps, eking out a living under extreme conditions. The University of Akron student grew up at Mae La, a place where jobs and education and opportunity were rare. "Completely hopeless, I would describe (it)," he said Saturday at the 2764 Karen New Year celebration at North High School in Akron. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Win came to America when he was 11. "I barely finished second grade in the refugee camp," he said. To make money, he sneaked outside the camp to pick corn, a dangerous and illegal act. He and more than 200 members of the Karen community who emigrated to the Akron area congregated Saturday at the high school to celebrate the Karen New Year and their culture. It was a time to dance, acknowledge the educational success of the community's youth and remember the struggles of the Karen people in Myanmar otherwise known as Burma and Thailand. Sharing the culture with younger members of Karen community Win organized the Don Dance, which is performed by the Karen of Burma and Thailand, to mark the New Year and help strengthen community traditions. It was the first time that the dancers, wearing colorful outfits and dancing to traditional music, performed in public, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Former refugees discuss bridging cultures in 'Brokers Without Borders' Saw Ajino Wah, chairman of the Karen Community of Akron, said the New Year celebration is important to the 2,000 Karen living in the Akron area. It's a way to preserve the culture and instruct youths who didn't share the refugee experience. "We have to try harder to share our culture with them," he said. The Karen trace their roots back to about 739 B.C., Win said, making this year their 2764th in existence. He's studying political science at UA, and has taken a keen interest in studying the history of his people in part, to preserve it for the youth. 'Everything is different' in America Chri Moo, one of those younger people, came to America when he was 5 from a refugee camp in Thailand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't remember much," he said. Moo, who works at GOJO Industries, said he wants to learn Karen culture and would like to visit the camp he lived in as a child. "I want to see what life was like," he said. "Once you come to this country... everything is different." 'A refugee camp is like living in prison' Eddie Su came to America in 2010 with his parents and two sisters, who left everything behind, he said. "Living in a refugee camp is like living in prison," he said. "They are looking at this country as an opportunity country, a dream country." The annual New Year celebration is a time for members of the community to assemble and share their experiences, he said. Recent graduates from local high schools take the stage Saturday at the 2764 Karen New Year celebration at North High School in Akron. A video on screen behind them details the struggle of the Karen people in the native lands. "This is the only time for us together," he said. "The New Year's event represents unity... this is not something that happens every day." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Su said he was able to visit the camp he lived in and saw that conditions hadn't changed much in 14 years. "They do not have a lot of funds," he said. "There's no school... The kids walk around all day and they don't get an education." A return to a refugee camp in Thailand Akron Mayor Shammas Malik spoke at the event, telling attendees the city supports the Karen community in Akron. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik addresses more than 200 members of the Akron Karen community Saturday during the 2764 Karen New Year celebration at North High School. "The city is here for all of us," he said. Win said it's important for the Karen community to remember their past, but also to succeed and appreciate the present. Like Su, he returned to Thailand to visit a refugee camp. "Last year, I had the opportunity to go back to the Thailand refugee camp," he said. "It was very emotional. It was worse." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Win said Saturday's event was a time to remember but also a time to acknowledge the achievements of its members, with education being a focus. "It is time to celebrate," he said. "I am the first person in my family to graduate high school and attend college." Leave a message for Alan Ashworth at 330-996-3859 or email him at aashworth@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @newsalanbeaconj or Facebook at www.facebook.com/alan.newsman. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron's Karen community celebrates 2764 New Year with dance and music WELLINGTON, Kan. (KSNW) A man who admitted to the 2023 shooting death of his wife has been sentenced to five years in prison. Michael Edgington pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter on Oct. 29, 2024, in the shooting death of 25-year-old Sydney Lea Ann Palmer. It happened on Jul 3, 2023, at a home in the 1300 block of N. A St. in Wellington. City to pay $300K to family of man struck and killed by officer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court records show Edgington told police that Palmer had recently been taking off of psychiatric meds and was in the middle of a manic episode where she had become combative and began breaking things in the home. He told officers he shot her after she threw a concrete figurine that struck him in the head. Palmer was transported to a Wichita hospital, where she later died from her injuries. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) After U.S. Congress certified the presidential election Monday in Washington, D.C., former Michigan gubernatorial candidate Ryan Kelley reflected on his race for governor and his part in the Jan. 6 protest of 2021. I think were going to see something a little bit different this time, he said in a phone interview with News 8. You know, as far as I know, I dont believe that theres going to be any type of protest there or anything like that this time around, but I guess the day is not over and we got to see whats going to happen. The certification happened Monday without any interruption or any large protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelley, who placed fourth in Michigans 2022 gubernatorial primary with 15% of the vote, pleaded guilty in July 2023 to a misdemeanor connected to the capital riots. He served 60 days in federal prison. Hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions are in limbo as a DC court awaits Trumps White House return That day is definitely something that will continue to create divide in our country because of how polarizing it is, Kelley said. I was there because you know I saw things happen for the 2020 election that looked suspicious, made me skeptical. I, like many other people, had questions and wanted to have our voices heard. (We wanted) to have Congress take a closer look at things before they certified the election. More than 1,000 people have been convicted so far in the Jan. 6 riot, according to the feds. President-elect Donald Trump has promised to pardon those who participated in the protest, but it is unclear if everyone will be pardoned or if it will be on a case-by-case basis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive already been to all of it, right? Its all behind me now. So I mean a pardon is welcomed, but you know, pardon doesnt expunge it off the record so theres another step there to have it removed off the record the damage has already been done, he said. Former gubernatorial candidate Ryan Kelley expects Jan. 6 pardon Meanwhile, in Washington D.C. this week, safety fences and gates were erected around parts of Capitol Hill something Kelley said he finds a bit hypocritical. The last time I checked, putting a wall at the southern border was a racist thing to do right? According to some people. But its OK to put walls up around where the politicians are at? Thats another one of those instances where its a little bit of hypocrisy there, if you will, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelley has since moved to Kent County, where he works as a real estate agent. However, he said he continues to receive calls from people asking him to run for office and is considering another political run. I havent ruled it out and I dont know what that looks like. If theres going to be a run in 26? I can tell you that I get phone calls from people all over the state and even out of the state. You know, that whole J6 thing kind of boosted me nationally in a way as well where people recognize me, he 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 WOODTV.com. CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) A community beautification effort lit up west Shreveport during Christmas and gained recognition from Caddo Parish leaders. Known as the Gateway into Caddo Parish, this part of town is the first part of Shreveport drivers will see when they visit. So in an effort to promote a safe and prosperous city, neighbors joined together for the Shine on Pines celebration spearhead by the Pines Road Area Business Association to welcome newcomers and enhance the overall look of this growing area. Very economically and commercially viable. We want everyone to know we are still here. To let people know Pines Road is viable and still on the map. Were proud of it, said Commissioner Ken Epperson, District 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To say thanks for being good neighbors, Shine on Pines congratulated homeowners for their help by receiving a special parish certificate to acknowledge promoting the best of west Shreveport hand delivered by their Commissioner, Ken Epperson. Its a wonderful neighborhood. Our neighbors are wonderful. They are close knit. Its a beautiful neighborhood, Dwayne Fortson said. Its really nice. My neighbors are nice. I like helping them too, Omari Fortson said. Omari Fortson is a young Shreveport resident recognized alongside her dad, Dwayne. The family has lived off Pines Road for more than a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It just makes you proud to be in this area, Dwayne said. He also gave credit to the real decorator of his property. Well, my wife is the one who put it together mainly. She made me do it. I just do the plugging up and putting up, he laughed. Dwayne said hes just trying to keep up with his neighbors. The Carters next door, I try to keep up with them, he said. Mrs. Mabel Carter sets a grand display as she is the first home people will notice. Every year, I add and take away. I like when people come by and give me the feedback of how nice it looks. I just enjoy doing it every year, Carter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She, too, received special acknowledgement for her work. This is my first one, and I am going to frame it, she said, referring to her new certificate of appreciation. Carter said she is proud to set the standard for her neighborhood. It makes me feel so ecstatic knowing this is the gateway. The pathway. As you can see, the traffic going by. You know you are in a place where people are really looking saying, oh wow, this is a nice neighborhood to be in, she said. The neighbors and their public leaders are working together to highlight the steady, shining growth of Pines Road. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Part of West Trade Street in Uptown was shut down due to a vehicle fire in a parking garage, according to the Charlotte Fire Department. Around 9:30 a.m., crews responded to the 700 block of West Trade Street about a vehicle fire on the 4th floor of a parking garage. Track issues along your commute with the QCN Traffic Interactive Map CFD said the fire was controlled in about 25 minutes and there were no reported injuries. The 700 block of W. Trade St. was shut down during the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the fire has not yet been released. This is a Developing Story . Check back 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 Queen City News. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) A recent survey of movers by United Van Lines puts West Virginia at the top of the rankings when it comes to inbound migration between states. Using its own moving data, United Van Lines study organized moving patterns between states as well as the movers reason for leaving one state in favor of another. West Virginia had the highest percentage of move-ins, with 65.6% of all West Virginia moves going into the state, and 34.4% of moves leaving the Mountain State to live somewhere else. Keep in mind, this does not mean West Virginia had the most people moving into it than any other state, only that West Virginia had the highest ratio of people moving in versus moving out. The Demographics Out of the people moving into WV, 75% of movers were 55 years old or older, with only 12.5% of move-ins being from individuals between the ages of 18 and 44. Out of the people moving out of West Virginia, 45.5% of movers were between the ages of 18 and 44, with the remaining percentage being comprised exclusively of people 65 years or older The Reasons According to United Van Lines data, the top reason for people moving into and out of West Virginia (34% of moves) was to be closer to family. This aligns with a national trend; being closer to family was the top reason to move between states in the U.S. overall. The second most common reason for people to move into or out of the state was employment (24.3% of move-ins and 24.7% of move-outs). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: Car removed from icy creek in Monongalia County While West Virginia was at the top, the top 10 states for inbound moving are as follows: West Virginia Delaware South Carolina District of Columbia North Carolina Alabama Rhode Island Oregon Arkansas Arizona if you want to read the full study, you can visit the United Van Lines website 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 WBOY.com. The Kenyan government has taken significant steps to support public schools by releasing KSh48.4 billion in capitation funds ahead of the new academic term. According to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, this allocation represents 50% of the total capitation budget for 2025 and aims to ensure a smooth reopening process. Below are the key updates for teachers and school administrators as they prepare for the new school year. The allocated funds have been distributed across different levels of education as follows: Primary schools: KSh4.1 billion KSh4.1 billion Day Secondary Schools: KSh28.9 billion KSh28.9 billion Day Junior Secondary Schools: KSh15.3 billion This financial boost is designed to eliminate the common challenges experienced during reopening periods, ensuring schools operate without disruption. The importance of timely funding cannot be understated, as delayed disbursements often lead to stress and operational challenges for school heads. To mitigate these issues, the funds have been divided according to the school term requirements: 50% disbursed now for Term One. 30% allocated for Term Two. 20% reserved for Term Three expenses. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the National Treasury, has committed to adhering to this schedule to avoid past delays that created financial strains on schools. With the transition of Grade 9 students to Junior Secondary Schools, a significant focus has been placed on infrastructure improvements. Currently, 93% of the 16,000 classrooms for this transition have been completed. However, for the remaining 7%, the government has instructed head teachers to set up temporary accommodations to house learners, including merging streams when necessary. While not ideal, these temporary solutions aim to prevent disruptions as final classroom constructions are completed. Another noteworthy achievement is the distribution of learning materials. The government states that it has already delivered an impressive 9.9 million textbooks across the country. CS Ogamba has confirmed that deliveries were on track to be finalized by Monday, January 6, ensuring all students have access to the necessary materials from the first day of the term. This will help teachers avoid last-minute challenges in sourcing resources, ensuring a productive start to the academic year. The early release of funds and resources is expected to reduce the stress school administrators typically face due to tight budgets and delayed funding. CS Ogamba acknowledged the difficulties school heads have encountered in the past, expressing hope that these proactive measures will alleviate some of their financial and managerial burdens. Jan. 7A meeting of the Western New Mexico Board of Regents was abruptly canceled Tuesday after more members heeded the governor's call for them to resign over criticism of their alleged wasteful spending and approval of a multimillion dollar separation agreement for university President Joe Shepard. Shepard, who is set to step down on Jan. 15, called the virtual meeting. WNMU student Trent Jones was the only board member who responded to the call. The secretary noted that regents Daniel Lopez, a former state cabinet secretary, and Dal Moellenberg, a private attorney, had resigned. With those resignations and former regents Lydon Haviland's and Mary Hotvedt's resignations last week, Shepard noted that the board lacked a quorum and could not meet. Copies of Lopez's and Moellenberg's letters were not immediately released by the governor's office or the university Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The regents were scheduled to meet behind closed doors to discuss Shepard's contract, his transition and legal matters. The board was also expected to meet in public session, where Shepard would have given his annual president's report and the board would have provided an update on the search for an interim president. The board also was expected to hear from members of the public during a comment period. The meeting was scheduled on Dec. 29, when then-board chair Hotvedt issued a letter to the campus community saying she heard their "questions and concerns about Shepard's resignation, the events leading up to the decision and the separation agreement" and the board would try to explain as much as it could. The meeting's cancelation capped the tenure of the WNMU board, which had allegedly approved more than what State Auditor Joe Maestas said was $360,000 in wasteful spending on lavish university foreign business trips and high-priced furniture for the president's residence from 2018-23. The alleged spending, first discovered in December 2023, set off a wave of public criticism and state investigations, leading Shepard to announce his resignation during a Dec. 20 board meeting. Shepard denied wrongdoing, but said he would step down to avoid being a distraction to the university. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same meeting, the board unanimously terminated Shepard's existing contract and approved a new agreement giving him $1.9 million in severance pay once he steps down and a full professorship in the School of Business making $200,000 a year for five years. On Monday, New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez filed for an emergency temporary restraining order to prevent the university from disbursing the severance payment to Shepard by his departure date. A hearing in 6th District Court before Judge Jarod Hofacket has been scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Jan. 13, according to court records. Torrez said in a news release that the board acted "contrary to its fiduciary duty" by approving the agreement, which he called "unconscionable as a violation of public policy and the public interest." Aside from the attorney general, the state Ethics Commission, the New Mexico Higher Education Department and the university are also conducting audits into the WNMU's spending. The investigations are expected to be completed early this year. Trudeau resigns: I cannot believe I am being forced to care about Canada right now. They call their cops Mounties you know. Absurd people facing an absurd political crisis. Let's dig in. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has, over his nine-year reign, become terribly unpopular. He resigned yesterday. This was semiexpected because all relevant opposition parties had vowed to mount challenges to his leadership come late January/early February, and because Trudeau's finance minister quit last month after the two clashed. Canadians are pissed off, like so many others around the world, with the high cost of living, which they attribute to Trudeau. Earlier in his term, he prioritized climate changerelated initiatives (like a costly carbon tax) and catering to Indigenous groups. He's prioritized letting in lots of immigrants, which many Canadians have soured on. When the pandemic hit, provincial governments imposed economically ruinous lockdowns, and Trudeau himself imposed a vaccine mandate for all those entering the country, as well as the entire federal work force. The vaccine mandate for all border-crossers, which was in place from October 2021 to October 2022, spurred the Canadian trucker convoy, an occupation of Ottawa that attempted to protest the government to change this freedom-trampling policy. Trudeau's response was to freeze the bank accounts of people involved, in an attempt to suppress the peaceful dissent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he first came to power in 2015, the nepo baby (son of another former prime minister) was widely admired due to his purported good looks and charm. When Donald Trump took office in the U.S. in January 2017, Trudeau quickly positioned himself as a foil to Trump, earning adoration from America's #Resistance left. Now, those people's opinions don't really matter (if they ever did at all), and normal Canadians have seen first-hand the impacts of Trudeau's policies. He sees the writing on the wall and is attempting to minimize the damage to his party. "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," he said in a press conference yesterday. In order to do that, he's prorogued Parliamentsuspending it without dissolving it. "To allow his party's thousands of members to choose his successor, a lengthy process that will involve campaigning, Mr. Trudeau suspended Parliament until March 24. A general election is expected to follow," reports The New York Times. "Holding a party leadership election before a general one is par for the course in countries with parliamentary systems like Canada's. Suspending Parliament to hold such an election is far less common. By doing so, Mr. Trudeau wards off the likely collapse of his minority government and gives the Liberals time to choose a leader unburdened by his dismal poll numbers." In other words: Suspending Parliament is a political ploy to stop the bleeding and help his allies stay in power. This final act seems par for the course for a man who prefers playing politics to crafting sound policy. It's possible someone more freedom-appreciating will replace him (though I'm pretty sure 90 percent of the population qualifies as more freedom-appreciating than Trudeau). But this comes at a difficult time for Canada, as Trump mulls slapping 25 percent tariffs on all Canadian goods, partially blaming our northern neighbors for an influx of migrants and fentanyl. It remains to be seen whether Trudeau will be replaced with someone better and whether Canadians can dig themselves out of this terrible economic hole that's been wrought by seemingly endless government spending. Scenes from New York: The Department of Justice has released information about 60-year-old Chen Jinping pleading guilty "to conspiring to act as an illegal agent of the government of the People's Republic of China (PRC), in connection with opening and operating an undeclared overseas police station, located in lower Manhattan, for the PRC's Ministry of Public Security (MPS)," calling such actions "a clear affront to American sovereignty." Ya think? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At least 100 such stations have been reported worldwide across 53 countries, with rights groups accusing China of using the outposts to threaten and monitor Chinese nationals abroad," reports the BBC. Naturally, "China has denied that they are police stations, saying they are 'service stations' providing administrative services to nationals overseas." Sure. QUICK HITS In case you missed it: Elon Musk has been tweeting about the Rotherham rape scandal that was exposed more than a decade ago, bringing fresh eyes to these heinous crimes (and, in some cases, the lack of sufficiently harsh prosecution). Pundits like Matt Yglesias have been acting like it's ludicrous for people on today's right to act like this story was in any way suppressed by the mainstream media at the time. I think this take (by @eyeslasho) is pretty good, though I'll admit I did not follow the story at the time: I was reading the same media you were reading then, and I was writing about the story, and I clearly remember how it was under-reported or (more typically) not fully reported. You rarely saw raw figures on the full extent of the abuse (or ethnicity-specific figures on the i/o (@eyeslasho) January 5, 2025 Investor/political activist Bill Ackman is expected to make the case to President-elect Donald Trump for why the president should abolish government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. "The details of any plan to release the GSEs from government control get fiendishly complicated very quickly, as technocrats argue over such issues as liquidation preferences, credit risk transfer instruments, and corporate credit ratings," reports Axios. "The result has been a quagmire and a continuation of government ownership for much longer than originally intended." "The decision to block U.S. Steel's acquisition by Nippon Steel is the perfect coda to President Joe Biden's political career," writes Reason's Eric Boehm. "By intervening in the private business affairs of the two companies, Biden is demonstrating once again his expansive view of executive power, hubristic sense of government's ability to order economic affairs, and willingness to stretch the definition of 'national security' to justify his big government agenda even when there is plainly no national security threat." Yesterday, the U.S. election results were peacefully certified without interruption. Donald Trump will be sworn in two weeks from now. McDonald's is stepping back from its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Hilarious details from Bloomberg. "Less than a decade ago, colleges and universities were trusted by 57 percent of Americans and in fairly bipartisan fashion," writes Kristen Soltis Anderson for The New York Times. "Today, Republican trust in higher education has cratered to only 20 percent, and Democrats' has also trended downward, though at a slower pace." The post What's Happening to Canada? appeared first on Reason.com. On Jan. 20, 2017, Donald Trump delivers his inaugural address after being sworn in as the 45th president of the United States. (Patrick Semansky/AP) In just a few days, President-elect Donald Trump will return to the White House with Vice President-elect JD Vance by his side after they take an oath to uphold the Constitution and are sworn in to their respective offices on Inauguration Day. In a historic twist, Trump announced on Friday that his inauguration will be held indoors because of the dangerously cold temperatures forecast for Washington, D.C. and much of the country next week. It will mark the first time in 40 years a president was sworn in inside, rather than on the Capitols western front, which overlooks the National Mall. When is Inauguration Day? Inauguration Day happens every four years on Jan. 20 which falls on a Monday this year. (If it is on a Sunday, the ceremony moves to Jan. 21.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inauguration also coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is always celebrated on the third Monday in January. This will be the third time that a president has taken the oath of office on that federal holiday. What will take place, and where? The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) led by Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota is responsible for planning and carrying out the inaugural ceremonies. By tradition on Inauguration Day, the president-elect and outgoing president, along with their spouses, leave the White House and head to the U.S. Capitol for the swearing-in ceremonies. They are followed by the vice president and vice-president elect, family members, Cabinet members and members of the JCCIC. Due to the frigid temperatures expected on Monday, the swearing-in ceremony will take place inside the U.S. Capitol in the Rotunda. This will be the second time the ceremony has had to move indoors, as Ronald Reagans second inauguration in 1985 had to be moved inside also due to cold weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance will be sworn in first as he takes an oath to uphold the Constitution. Then around 12 p.m. ET, as mandated by the Constitution, Trump will be sworn in as President Bidens term officially ends. The terms of the President and the Vice President shall end at noon on the 20th day of January, according to the 20th Amendment. Trump will then give an inaugural address as the 47th president of the United States. Following the swearing-in ceremonies, Biden and the first lady, Jill Biden, will leave the Capitol in an honorary departure. Traditionally, the newly sworn-in president will then go to the presidents room off of the Senate chamber of the Capitol building to gather with aides and members of Congress, where his first official actions as president will take place: signing nominations, possibly memorandums, proclamations or executive orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other traditional inaugural events include a luncheon, followed by a procession of ceremonial military regiments, marching bands and parade floats down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. However, due to the cold temperatures, it remains unclear if the parade will be held indoors at the Capital One arena in D.C., as Trump indicated in a Truth Social post. The theme for this years inaugural ceremonies is Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise. The JCCIC said in December: When we gather for the 60th Presidential Inauguration, we will honor the Constitutions promise to preserve liberty through a stable, enduring democracy for generations to come. President-elect Donald Trump's official 2025 presidential portrait. (Trump-Vance Transition Team) Who is attending? Biden said in December that of course he would attend Trumps inauguration. The White House confirmed that the first lady would also attend. White House spokesman Andrew Bates said that Biden views that as an important demonstration of commitment to our democratic values and to honoring the will of the people as we continue to provide an orderly and effective transition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2021, Trump refused to concede his defeat to Biden in the 2020 presidential election and did not attend his inauguration. Trump became the first president in 150 years not to attend an incoming presidents swearing-in, breaking a tradition that is considered to be an act affirming a peaceful transfer of power. In addition to the president, vice president and their families, there are about 1,400 guests, including members of Congress, Supreme Court justices and former presidents, according to the JCCIC. According to the Associated Press, former President Barack Obama will attend the swearing-in ceremony, but former first lady Michelle Obama will not be attending, according to a spokesperson. Former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush will also attend the swearing-in ceremony. None of them will be attending the inaugural luncheon, NBC News reported. Seated among these notable guests in a prominent spot on the platform will be, according to the New York Times: TikTok CEO Shou Chew; Elon Musk, Trumps pick to co-lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency; Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta; and Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, which has contributed $1 million to Trumps inaugural fund. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has invited foreign leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping, but Chinese state media reported that Xi will instead send Vice President Han Zheng, marking the first time a senior Chinese leader will have attended a U.S. president's inauguration. German far-right leader Tino Chrupalla, who was endorsed by Musk, will also attend the inauguration, which is about a month before the federal election in Germany. The Associated Press notes that no head of state has previously made an official visit to the U.S. for the inauguration. Democrats not attending the inauguration Its not mandatory for members of Congress to attend a presidential inauguration, which is why several congressional Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have said they wont be attending Trumps inauguration. Some didnt provide a reason or have indicated they dont feel safe being surrounded by Trumps supporters after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, or because they are attending events honoring Martin Luther King Jr. instead, Newsweek and Axios reported. These are the high-profile Democrats not attending Trumps inauguration: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Donald Beyer, Virginia Rep. Sean Casten, Illinois Rep. Judy Chu, California Rep. Steve Cohen, Tennessee Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, New Jersey Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Texas Rep. Veronica Escobar, Texas Rep. Kweisi Mfume, Maryland Rep. Ilhan Omar, Minnesota Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Massachusetts Rep. Delia Ramirez, Illinois Rep. Deborah Ross, North Carolina Rep. Lateefah Simon, California Rep. Adam Smith, Washington Who is performing at the inauguration? Country music star Carrie Underwood is set to perform America the Beautiful and will be accompanied by the Armed Forces Chorus and the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club. I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event, Underwood said in a statement to Yahoo. I am humbled to answer the call at a time when we must all come together in the spirit of unity and looking to the future. Lee Greenwood, known for his song God Bless the U.S.A., said he is humbled and honored to perform at the swearing-in. Performing the national anthem will be classical singer Christopher Macchio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump will also hold a Make America Great Again Victory Rally on Jan. 19 at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., where Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, the Village People and the Liberty Universitys Praise choir will perform. Who is performing at the inaugural balls? After the inauguration, there will be three official inaugural balls where Trump is expected to make appearances: the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Inaugural Ball and the Starlight Ball. Village People, the disco group with 1970s hits Y.M.C.A. and Macho Man, confirmed in a Facebook post that they will perform at various events as part of the 2025 Inauguration of Donald J. Trump. This includes the Liberty Inaugural Ball. We know this wont make some of you happy to hear however we believe that music is to be performed without regard to politics, the post read. Our song Y.M.C.A. is a global anthem that hopefully helps bring the country together after a tumultuous and divided campaign where our preferred candidate lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also performing at the Liberty Inaugural Ball is country singer Jason Aldean and a surprise musical guest, according to the Trump-Vance inaugural committee. Musical group Rascal Flatts and country singer Parker McCollum will perform at the Commander in Chief Ball, while Gavin DeGraw will perform at the Starlight Ball. Flags will be flown at full-staff for Trumps inauguration Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom has joined Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson and some GOP governors who have directed that flags fly at full-staff temporarily for Trumps inauguration. Johnson announced that flags at the U.S. Capitol will fly at full-staff to celebrate our country coming together behind the inauguration of our 47th President, Donald Trump. The flags will be returned to half-staff the following day to continue to honor the late former President Jimmy Carter, who died on Dec. 29. Biden had ordered that all flags be flown at half-staff at federal and state government agencies nationwide for 30 days. Trumps inauguration falls within the window of those 30 days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump previously took issue with the lowered flags, saying on social media: Nobody wants to see this. 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, Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Nobody wants to see this, and no American can be happy about it. Lets see how it plays out. What about inauguration ticket holders? This year the JCCIC released 220,000 tickets to members of Congress to share with their constituents to watch the inauguration on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. But since the inauguration ceremony is moving inside to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, not all ticketed guests will be able to fit in that space. The vast majority of ticketed guests will not be able to attend the ceremonies in person, the committee said in a notice sent to ticket holders on Friday. The JCCIC also said it's designating certain places to watch and will provide additional information" for would-be spectators to attend a live watch event. Members of Congress and those with tickets for the Presidential Platform will be able to attend in person. PROVIDENCE (WPRI) Four years after the ongoing FBI investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, four Rhode Islanders have been swept up in the probe, with most of them sentenced. Only the federal criminal case again Timothy Desjardins, 38, of Providence, is still pending at U.S. District Court in Washington. His case has been on ice as state prosecutors wrapped up a separate investigation, which ultimately ended in Desjardins getting sentenced for 18 years after shooting someone in a road-rage incident. Desjardins who was the first Rhode Islander to be charged in the Jan. 6 attack is currently at the ACI in Cranston on the state conviction. In a recent filing in the Washington case, federal prosecutors asked a judge to postpone an upcoming pre-trial hearing, writing, The government anticipates forthcoming developments that would obviate the need for the status conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear if that is a reference to Donald Trumps campaign pledges to pardon at least some Jan. 6 defendants. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office did not return an email for comment. The first defendant from Rhode Island to serve prison time was Bernard Joseph Sirr, 49, of North Kingstown. He was arrested in 2022 and ultimately pleaded guilty to civil disorder a year later. Video released by the FBI shows Sirr among a group of rioters pushing against a line of police officers trying to infiltrate the Capitol. A judge sentenced Sirr to two months in prison followed by a year of probation. At sentencing he apologized for his actions. Sirr was released in September 2023. William Cotton, of Hopkinton, was the next to be sentenced. He was arrested in 2022 after video evidence showed him inside the Capitol with other rioters. Cotton pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nine months of probation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Juan Rodriguez, of Central Falls, was sentenced to one month in prison. FBI agents said Rodriguez and two other men locked themselves inside a Senate staff office and refused to open the door for Capitol police officers. Search all people arrested in Jan. 6 attack Two men from Bristol County, Massachusetts, have also been prosecuted for taking part in the riot. Chase Allen, of Seekonk, pleaded guilty in 2023 to violent entry and disorderly conduct. Investigators said he stomped on media equipment that day. He was sentenced to three years of probation. Michael St. Pierre, of Swansea, took his case to trial at U.S. District Court in Washington, and was convicted by a judge of four of seven counts. His lawyer is trying to get one of the counts dismissed and is scheduled to be sentenced in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By then the Trump administration will be in full swing. If Trump decides to issue pardons related to Jan. 6, its unclear how many of the nearly 1,600 defendants who have faced prosecution it will affect. A CBS News poll last month found 59% of Americans would oppose pardons for those who forced their way into the Capitol, while 41% approved of the idea. Massachusetts Congressman Jake Auchincloss, who represents Seekonk and Swansea, said any pardons would further divide the country. Individuals who assault police officers, individuals who attack the institutions of our democracy during the transfer of power, should do the time for the crime that they committed, Auchincloss, a Democrat, said Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tim White (twhite@wpri.com) is Target 12 managing editor and chief investigative reporter and host of Newsmakers for 12 News. Connect with him on Twitter and Facebook. 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. The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate a Brown County highway crash in which a Washburn University faculty member and his wife died, Brown County Attorney Kevin M. Hill told The Capital-Journal. Troopers were expected after concluding their investigation to forward reports to Hill's office, which would then decide whether any criminal charges would be filed. Dave Provorse, 64, and his wife, Marcia L. Provorse, 62, both of Topeka, were killed just after 8 a.m. Dec. 20 when the driver of a semi-trailer failed to stop at a stop sign and broadsided the vehicle Dave Provorse was driving on US-75 highway at its intersection with K-20 highway in southern Brown County, said a Kansas Highway Patrol accident report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dave Provorse was an associate professor at Washburn, where he formerly served 13 years as chairman of the psychology department. Dave Provorse, an associate professor in Washburn University's psychology department, and his wife, Marcia, died Dec. 20 in a Brown County highway crash. What happened in accident involving Washburn University professor? A KHP accident report said Dave Provorse was driving a 2019 Ford F-150 pickup truck southbound on US-75 when it was struck broadside by a 2016 Freightliner semi-trailer driven by Edward C. Bullmaster, 26, of St. Joseph, Missouri, who had been westbound on K-20 and had failed to stop at the stop sign at its intersection with US-75. Both vehicles came to rest in the ditch just west of US-75 highway, with the semi-trailer's having rolled onto its side in that ditch, the accident report said. The Provorses were pronounced deceased at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bullmaster suffered a suspected minor injury and was taken to Sabetha Community Hospital, the accident report said. It said Bullmaster's one passenger Clay J. Lutz, 36, of Rushville, Missouri also suffered a suspected minor injury and was taken to that same hospital. Everyone involved in the crash was wearing a safety restraint, the accident report said. Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas crash that killed Washburn faculty member being investigated Arizona continues to be a popular destination for people moving in the United States. Each year, U-Haul tracks the net gain of one-way U-Haul trucks arriving in a state or city compared with the net gain of trucks leaving that same state or city, to see where people are moving. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from over 2.5 million U-Haul truck, trailer and moving container rentals throughout the year. In 2024, South Carolina topped the list for hopeful U-Haul renters for the first time, according to a release from the company Thursday, beating Texas, which was No. 1 on U-Haul's list the previous three years. North Carolina came next, and then Florida. Tennessee rounded out the top five. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AZ will be a housing hot spot in 2025: Here are some of the best cities to live in Migration to the Southeast and Southwest continues as families gauge their cost of living, job opportunities, quality of life and other factors that go into relocating to a new state," said John Taylor, U-Haul International president. "Out-migration remains prevalent for a number of markets across the Northeast, Midwest and West Coast and particularly California." Here's what to know about where people moved to in 2024 and how Arizona ranked. Pricey: Why is it so expensive to live alone in Arizona? Here's what to know Which state was the top state for movers for 2024? South Carolina, the Palmetto State, climbed three spots in the rankings to unseat Texas, U-Haul said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While U-Haul rankings may not correlate directly to population or economic growth, the U-Haul Growth Index is an effective gauge of how well states and cities are attracting and maintaining residents," the company said. How much growth did Arizona see in 2024 according to U-Haul? According to U-Haul's annual analysis of where people are moving to, the Grand Canyon State saw more people moving into the state in 2024. After ranking eighth in 2023, seventh in 2022 and fifth in 2021, Arizona was the sixth most popular state to move to in 2024. U-Haul's Growth Index indicates that Arizona had an arrival percentage of 50.3%. U-Haul also ranked Phoenix the third biggest growth metro in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U-Haul's Arizona officials credited the weather as a main factor bringing people to Arizona, but also highlighted the lower cost of living compared with western states like California. Other factors driving migration to metro Phoenix included land space on the outskirts of the Valley, career opportunities and universities drawing students who choose to stay after graduation. In comparison, many southwestern states fared poorly in U-Haul's analysis. California was the state most people moved out of in 2024. Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico also saw major declines in the number of people moving into the states. Top mountain towns in the US: This Arizona city was No. 1 on the list Top 10 most popular US states to move to These states had the largest influx of movers in 2024, according to U-Haul: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Carolina Texas North Carolina Florida Tennessee Arizona Washington Indiana Utah Idaho Which state lost the most movers in 2024? For the fifth year in a row, the Golden State lost the most people. California was at the bottom of the list again, reflecting the trends of out-migration from other markets across the Northeast, the Midwest and the West Coast. Joining California for most people moving out in the U-Haul Growth Index were Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: These are top places to move in US. Spoiler alert: Arizona made list Elon Musk recently placed a poll on X asking whether users think America should overthrow the British government. Given his deadpan delivery, its hard to tell if hes being serious about the proposition or just joking. Well take a look at whether the worlds richest man really wants the United States to invade the UK or if hes just pulling our chain. Elon Musk appears to call for the US to invade the UK https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1876174862747930717 Elon Musk posted a poll asking if America should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government. The poll came in the wake of allegations that various levels of the UK government ignored, covered up, or were complicit in a massive amount of child sexual exploitation cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Washington Post, Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that people are spreading lies and misinformation and that Musk shouldnt be interfering in foreign politics. It appears that Musks poll is a result of the UK governments response to the allegations. Its almost certainly hyperbole meant to bring attention to the situation and not actually a call to arms. Its not unusual for him to make dramatic, over-the-top comments and push boundaries. His goal is likely to stir engagement and debate. So, theres little reason to fear that Musk is stirring up support for an invasion of the UK. Even if he was serious, the country is one of the USs closest allies. Out of the 195 UN-recognized countries in the world, the UK is probably the least likely for the US to invade. Numerous defensive and trade pacts that the two have signed, and their historical association make the proposition of war between the two a practical impossibility. In the end, Musks provocative poll serves as another example of his ability to spark controversy and fuel online discourse. His antics are an attempt to bring attention to issues hes concerned about. However, X users should research any topic before drawing any conclusions. The post Heres Whether Elon Musk Was Serious When He Asked if the US Should Invade the UK or Not appeared first on Mandatory. WHITE SANDS, N.M. (KRQE) We are getting a look at how many people visited on of New Mexicos most photographed national parks last month. In December, more than 62,200 people visited the White Sands National Park, a 14% increase from the previous year. White Sands National Park saw over 729,000 visitors in 2023 Overall, 702,236 people visited, which is a 4% decrease from calendar year 2023. On December 27, 2024, on-site interpretive programs were given to 1,461 visitors. Forty-seven visitors took the tour of Lake Lucero on December 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some additional numbers of note, more than 1,000 of those visitors attended sunset strolls and park staff swore in roughly 1,500 new junior rangers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang has announced that the government is considering adopting a shift learning system to tackle the ongoing concerns surrounding the construction of Grade 9 classrooms. Speaking during a multi-agency assessment of Grade 9 classrooms in Nairobi, Kipsang outlined the proposal, which would allow two groups of students to share the same facilities, with their usage times staggered throughout the day. Kipsang emphasized that the double-shift system aims to expand school capacity while managing budget constraints. We are going to have short-term mitigating solutions to be able to give us time to finalize on any schools that we are putting up a classroom, Kipsang stated. In some situations, even where the congestions might not allow, we can have a multi shift within the time where when there is a class that is having outdoor activities then within that time that group can be optimized to disrupt learning. The Ministry of Education is striving to meet its target of constructing 16,000 classrooms by February. Kipsang noted that so far, 3,000 classrooms have been completed with the support of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and are ready for use. An additional 2,000 classrooms are currently under development. The Ministry has already completed 10,500 out of the targeted 11,000 classrooms, bringing the total number of ready classrooms to 13,500. We can confidently say that 13,500 classrooms are now ready to accommodate students across the country, Kipsang announced. Addressing concerns about book shortages, Kipsang revealed that the Ministry has distributed 9.9 million books to schools across nine learning areas. Despite this effort, he acknowledged that teacher numbers remain insufficient to meet national demand. Currently, more than 80,000 teachers are qualified to teach Grade 9, but this figure still falls short of the countrys needs. To address the gap, Kipsang said the Teachers Service Commission has issued posting letters to 20,000 teachers and converted 46,000 intern teachers to permanent and pensionable positions. Jan. 6Whitefish City Council on Monday is expected to set its legislative priorities on the same day the 2025 legislative session begins. The priorities are in five main areas: community housing, environmental quality, municipal finances, land use regulation, and renewable and clean energy opportunities. City Council meets at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall, 418 E. Second St. City Manager Dana Smith said the legislative priorities focus on issues that are of high importance to the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Identifying the city's legislative priorities provides the City Council and staff a clear and united platform when addressing our elected representatives during the 2025 Session," she said in a memo to Council. Under community housing, the city's priority list says it supports the expansion of low-income housing tax credits, expanding tools and grant programs related to housing and new legislation that increases the supply of community affordable housing. While it would oppose a reduction of current housing programs and existing tools available to cities for such housing. For municipal finances, it supports the preservation of a resort tax, a fair property tax system that does not disproportionately burden residential property owners especially those who use the property as a primary residence, and the preservation of the city's authority to place levy questions on the ballot. It opposes legislation to decrease current revenue streams for cities, the elimination of carryover mills and restrictions on voted levies. In terms of land-use regulation, the city wants to see legislation providing local control of community development practices and opposes legislation limiting planning and zoning authority or cities and the preemption of local land use policy making such as development standards, density, parking and architecture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city also opposes any legislation limiting self-governing powers of charter cities to make local decisions. ALSO ON the agenda, Council will consider two ordinance changes. The first amends city code to clarify that police officers can issue a civil citation to a person who commits a municipal infraction. The change is being made after the Whitefish Municipal Court expressed concern that police officers are not specifically authorized to issue civil citations. The second amends city code to allow for Whitefish Police to enforce the civil penalty associated with the use of marijuana in public places. While state law allows those age 21 and older to possess a certain amount of marijuana for recreational purposes, it also provides that the use of marijuana in a public place is subject to a civil fine not exceeding $50. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Council is set to consider a lakeshore permit with a minor lakeshore variance for a property at 422 Dakota Ave. The permit would allow for an existing city sewer main situated under the rear deck of a home to be relocated. DURING A work session beginning at 5:45 p.m., Council will revisit the topic of compensation for councilors and the mayor. Whitefish voters in November approved a change to the city's charter that allows for council and the mayor to receive a salary. Council members now receive benefits including reimbursement to purchase an electronic device, reimbursement for personal cell phone use, a WAVE membership and the ability to opt into the city's health insurance program. Whitefish has been one of a few cities in the state that doesn't provide a salary or stipend to its elected officials. In Columbia Falls the mayor gets a salary of $4,800 and councilors get $2,400. Kalispell pays its mayor $9,000 annually plus a stipend of $1,800 per year, and councilors get a $5,000 salary plus a $900 stipend, along with health benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Council is expected to provide direction on a resolution regarding compensation that would then be scheduled for a public hearing and vote. Deputy Editor Heidi Desch may be reached at 758-4421 or hdesch@dailyinterlake.com. WHITEHALL, Ohio (WCMH) When Whitehall Mayor Michael Bivens was first sworn in, he told his alma mater, Capital University, that he wanted to keep the progress of the city while maintaining the small-town charm. When Councilor Gerald Dixon joined Whitehall City Council, he said he wanted to fight against what he believed to be a corrupt government prioritizing progress over residents. Now colleagues, the pair have not strayed from their original messaging. Bivens promotes a growing Whitehall. Dixon asserts the administration is of a one-track mind. Increasingly, they have made unfavorable comments toward the other in public, both during Council meetings and online. List: High profile Franklin County trials expected in 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bivens began the Dec. 17 Council meeting with comments, including several directed at Dixon. Dixon responded in a blog post from the desk of Ward 1 Councilor Gerald Dixon on Dec. 30. See coverage of Bivens assuming office as Whitehalls first Black mayor in the video player above. Bivens dubbed Dixon the outlier Councilmember and, addressing Dixon, spoke of the hypocrisy that exists within this man. Dixon, in turn, wrote a lengthy post rebutting Bivens claims, writing that if Bivens has a beef with me being on council opposing specific legislation, Bivens should take it up with the citizens of Ward 1, which Dixon represents. Who does the mayor believe put me onto Council, a magic genie who granted me a wish? Dixon wrote. Of course not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dixon has also accused Bivens of clear bias in his blog, particularly referencing his opposition toward investigating the Whitehall Division of Police. Dixon introduced a measure to Council to formally investigate the division, which was shot down at the same Council meeting 6-1. Ohio revises Statehouse candidate forms after several nearly disqualified Both Dixon and Bivens were asked for comments on their assertions, and on how the dialogue shaped the professionalism of the Whitehall government. Dixon did not respond to the request for comment, but he did speak on the subject immediately after the Dec. 17 meeting. I am an outlier, Dixon said. My allegiance isnt to anyone in government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A representative for Bivens said he would prefer to speak about the future and growth of Whitehall. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (NEXSTAR) Regardless of how 2025 turns out, its no ordinary year. The year 2025 is a perfect square year because its the product of a number multiplied by itself 4545=2025, a phenomenon that hasnt happened for decades. The last time it occurred in 1936 (4444), President Franklin D. Roosevelt was in office and America was slogging through the Great Depression. It was also the birth year of Mary Tyler Moore and John Madden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Social Security retirement age set to change in 2025 The years square properties are not the only reason that 2025 has some mathematicians excited. We know that its 4545, but whats cool about the number 45 is that 45 is equal to 1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8+9, University of Waterloo Computer Science Professor Craig Kaplan told CTV News. If you add up all the numbers from 1 to 9, you get 45. 45 is sometimes called a triangular number, or a pyramid number. The next perfect square year wont arrive until 2116. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Happy Tuesday and Happy New Year! With the cost of housing ever-present in the public consciousness, state legislatures reconvening, and elections out of the way, we can expect 2025 to be action-packed with lots of wonky housing policy fights. Rent Free will be here to cover them all. As policymakers go about considering reforms aimed at making their cities more affordable, it's important to understand what success will look like. Even more importantly, it's important to understand what success does not look like. To that end, this week's newsletter takes on the mistaken idea that building a high share of below-market "affordable" housing is a sign that a city is becoming more affordable. If a Lot of New Housing in Your City Is 'Affordable,' Something Is Off On New Year's Eve, the Boston city government issued a press release touting the good work of its newly reorganized Planning Department at approving new development. The city reports that 3,575 net residential units were approved in 2024, of which a little over a third were "income-restricted." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That top-line number is not necessarily anything to brag about. Despite having some of the highest home prices and rents in the country, Boston is permitting fewer homes than less-expensive peer cities with equivalent populations. Similarly sized cities like Washington, D.C., are building more housing than Boston. Atlanta is building way more housing than Boston. Even more concerning than Boston not permitting a lot of new homes is how many of the homes it is permitting are "income-restricted." Those are units (often also just called "affordable," "below-market," or "deed-restricted" units) that are reserved for lower-income residents and where rents are capped at steeply discounted below-market rates. Despite the city's celebratory touting of that figure, such a high share of new housing being income-restricted housing is very bad news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That data point suggests that not only is Boston not building a lot of housing, but that it's vastly under-building what the market demands. It says most of the projects getting approved in Boston are either dependent on public subsidies or command such high rents that they can bear the cost of the city's punishing affordable housing mandates. Understanding exactly why cities don't become affordable by raising the "affordable" share of the tiny amount of housing that they do build is crucial for getting housing policy right in the new year. Filtering Up, Filtering Down In a free market without subsidies and price controls, there wouldn't be such a thing as "income-restricted" units. All housing would be rented or sold at market rates for a profit (save for whatever housing is provided by charitable nonprofits and religious groups). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New housing would be pricey under such a system. But without zoning or other artificial caps on production, housing would still generally be affordable thanks to filtering. Filtering is the process by which high-income people move into pricey, newly built units, lowering demand (and prices) for the older units they leave behind. Those units are then snapped up by lower-income people, who themselves leave behind an older, less-expensive unit to be taken by even lower-income people. Studies that follow the filtering process down the income ladder find that the addition of new market-rate units kicks off a chain of moves that ends up leaving more units available in the most affordable neighborhoods. Boston, of course, does not have a free market in housing. The city's zoning laws artificially restrict how much new housing can be built in the city. One measure of regulatory burden finds Boston has the strictest land use rules in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A consequence of such strict regulations is that the natural market filtering process is thrown in reverse. Absent new housing coming online at high enough rates to meet growing demand, high-income people stay put in their old units for want of better options. Units become more expensive over time, not less. Lower-income people economize by moving into older, worse housing instead of newer, better housing. People at the bottom rung of the income ladder either move out of town or move onto the street. (If you want a more thorough explanation, see this piece I wrote about the housing economics of Taylor Swift concerts.) Just One More Regulation When filtering has broken down in a city, the obvious move for policymakers is to get rid of the zoning rules, permitting requirements, impact fees, taxes, mandates, and more that stymie new housing production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, cities like Boston have decided to fix the ill consequences of overregulation with more regulation. Operating under the assumption that sky-high housing prices are just a force of nature (and not the product of overregulation), Boston created an "inclusionary zoning" policy back in the late 1990s. That policy requires developers seeking waivers from zoning regulations to include below-market "income-restricted" units in their projects if they are building more than 10 units at a time. Since Boston's zoning regulations are so restrictive, a high percentage of developers need to ask for zoning waivers to make their projects possible. A high percentage of newly constructed units in the city are "income-restricted" as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Add in the affordable units that are built through federal, state, and locally subsidized housing programs and you end up with a third of new units being "income-restricted." The city touts those affordable units as a policy success, when in fact they're plain and obvious proof of how overly burdensome the city's zoning regulations are. If routine homebuilding requires waivers from the laws on the books, then the laws on the books by definition are killing routine homebuilding. Even if Boston grants every waiver a developer requests in exchange for them building "income-restricted" units, the city is still costing itself new housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The voluminous research on inclusionary zoning policies finds that they're an effective tax on new housing that lowers housing production and raises housing prices. For-profit builders need to make a higher rate of return on their market-rate units in order to make up for the tax imposed by "income-restricted" units. If the returns on market-rate units in a project don't cover the costs of the inclusionary zoning tax, then that project just doesn't get proposed at all. That means that in Boston, fewer units overall get built and the market-rate units that do make sense to build are incredibly expensive. Bad to Worse Things are going from bad to worse in Boston. In October 2024, updates to the city's inclusionary zoning policy went into effect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pre-October regulations required that the builders of 10 units or more who received zoning relief make 13 percent of their new units income-restricted. The new policy requires all projects of seven or more units to be at least 17 percent income-restricted. They must also be restricted to incomes of at most 70 percent of the area median income. This makes Boston's inclusionary zoning policy one of the most burdensome in the nation. One should expect the share of "income-restricted" units to rise as a percentage of new development going forward in Boston. The city will surely issue celebratory press releases when that happens, saying that their new policies are working. In the background, the overall number of homes will be falling. As yet another example of more bad news presented as good, the city has launched a Housing Accelerator Fund to subsidize projects that are already approved and permitted but haven't started construction because of financial difficulties. If a developer can't attract financing for already-approved housing in a high-priced, undersupplied city, something has gone very wrong indeed. A Tale of Two Cities In 2005, the Texas Legislature, responding to the concerns of Austin homebuilders, banned mandatory inclusionary zoning in the state. From that year on, Texas cities were prohibited from conditioning the approval of new, code-conforming housing on the inclusion of "income-restricted" units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Affordable housing advocates opposed Texas' inclusionary zoning ban at the time and have continued to argue for its repeal on the grounds that inclusionary zoning is a powerful tool for creating affordability. Yet 20 years later, it's Texas' megabuilding, inclusionary zoningfree cities that are relatively affordable and affordability-mandating jurisdictions like Boston that aren't. According to the most recent rental data from Apartment List, median rents in Austin are $1,394 a month and have fallen 7.2 percent year-over-year. In Boston, median rents are holding steady at $2,298. Boston might be the worst offender when it comes to bragging about how its policies are making things worse. But the policy preference for shrinking the amount of housing that's built in favor of boosting the percentage of housing that's "affordable" is a nationwide phenomenon. California's state planning system is predicated on the idea that localities should mostly be building income-restricted housing. When they don't, politicians complain that they're overbuilding market-rate housing and call for greater subsidies and regulation. Several states are now copying California's planning approach. The Biden administration doled out new zoning reform grants, initially intended as an incentive for cities to repeal regulations on new housing, to cities that adopted inclusionary zoning policies. In the past decade or so, a wave of inclusionary zoning requirements have been passed in Portland, New York City, Seattle, Pittsburgh, and more. Some of these are worse than others. All these policies implicitly accept the idea that we should sacrifice more housing for some additional "affordable" housing. In states where inclusionary zoning is the norm, the policy hamstrings otherwise productive zoning reforms. Bills that "upzone" land so that more units can be built are too often larded down with inclusionary zoning mandates requiring some (or all) of the newly legal units to be "income-restricted." In effect, more housing is exchanged for less housing. Peter is robbed to pay Paul. The bad tradeoff of lower overall housing production for a higher share of "affordable housing" is extended into the future. Aside from Texas, a handful of states have banned inclusionary zoning policies. More states should follow suit. Housing becomes affordable when a lot of it is built, not when capital-A "affordable housing" makes up a larger slice of a tiny new housing pie. Quick Links The Wall Street Journal profiles the mixed-use Costco/apartment building development happening in Los Angeles that's made possible by recent state zoning reforms that allow streamlined approval of some residential projects in commercial zones. No longer are suburban big-box retail and urban walkability in conflict. Costco is building apartments above its stores to address the affordable housing crisis, starting early this year. Walking downstairs and getting a $1.50 hot dog gives new meaning to "affordable walkability." It includes free membership, a rooftop pool, fitness area, gardens/ pic.twitter.com/28eBI4ORk2 Andrew Lokenauth | TheFinanceNewsletter.com (@FluentInFinance) January 4, 2025 Developers in Utica, New York, are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to take up their challenge to the city's seizure of their property. If the court does take up the case, it would give it the opportunity to overturn the infamous 2005 Kelo precedent that removed guardrails against eminent domain abuse, writes Reason's Jacob Sullum. Delaware's governor-elect is saying the right things about housing affordability while proposing some pretty modest state-level zoning reforms. Berkeley, California, has created an amnesty program whereby people can legalize their illegally built accessory dwelling unit (ADU). A recent study looking at San Jose, California, found that most ADUs are built without permits. In California, an anti-LED light group sues over a plan to install a light display on the Bay Bridge in San Francisco, reports The San Francisco Standard. The suit claims the installation, far from being a beautiful addition to the city, will be "eye candy for a few private individuals who wish to use the public San Francisco Bay Bridge as their own personal playground." The anti-LED group is suing under the same environmental law that anti-development activists use to challenge the approval of tens of housing units a year. Even as New York City tries to goose housing production with liberalizing zoning reforms, the city's rent stabilization law is forcing more and more units off the market. Meanwhile, more cities in New York are taking the opportunity created by the state's new "Good Cause eviction" law to pass rent control policies of their own. Maybe supply and demand works differently in Rochester? A Maryland man is in hot water for building a go-cart track on his property without the proper permits. What's next, a permit to toast toast in your own damn toaster? Camping bans are proliferating in the wake of the Supreme Court's Grants Pass decision, which lets cities ticket people for sleeping in public even if there are no available shelter beds. Last week, Rent Free reported on how unsheltered homelessness in the United States continues to climb to record levels. Despite some last-minute legal maneuvers from New Jersey, New York's new congestion tolls went into effect on January 5. The post Why Building a Lot of 'Affordable' Housing Is Bad News for Affordability appeared first on Reason.com. The News China the worlds largest greenhouse gas emitter is expected to announce new climate targets in the next few weeks, setting out its first roadmap for a decline in emissions. Beijings announcement, one of the most important moments on this years global climate agenda, will have a profound impact on the worlds effort to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius: The countrys huge emissions volume is an obvious reason, but what is more significant is that this climate plan will extend to 2035 and into a period when China moves past peak emissions. The targets are incredibly important in signalling how fast China intends to slash its emissions to achieve carbon neutrality before its self-imposed deadline of 2060, Lauri Myllyvirta, a senior fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, a US think tank, told me. Xiaoyings view Chinas target-setting all signatories to the Paris Agreement are required to submit nationally determined contributions to the UN by the end of February comes amid a particularly complex geopolitical landscape for Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US President-elect Donald Trump is returning to the White House with promises to support the fossil fuel industry and blockade Chinese goods, and is likely to pull the US out of the Paris Agreement again. And China is locking horns with the European Union over tariffs on electric vehicles. External pressure is also mounting on China. Previously, Beijing had insisted that rich nations take the lead in slashing world carbon emissions due to their historic responsibility for such pollution. But recent analysis by Carbon Brief revealed that China has already overtaken the EU as the worlds second-largest historic carbon emitter, though it still trails the United States. It also represents an opportunity for Beijing to position itself as a leader on this front, given its progress on climate targets and global role in the clean-energy supply chain: This is a good opportunity [for China] to propose more ambitious goals, contrasting the likely inaction by the US in reducing its emissions, Mo Zhengchun, principal of the Beijing-based Institute for Global Decarbonization Progress, told me. Know More Chinas Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang pledged at Novembers COP29 climate summit in Baku that Chinas 2035 targets would count all greenhouse gases and cover all aspects of the countrys economy potentially a significant shift for Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, China has used carbon intensity the amount of carbon dioxide emitted per unit of GDP as its official target. It announced the metric in 2009, at the height of its economic growth, after facing pressure to set a quantitative goal to curb its emissions. Its argument was that it was a target that wouldnt constrain Chinas growth. A shift to a hard cap on carbon emissions would bring Beijing in line with developed countries, the only ones required by the Paris Agreement to set absolute emission reduction goals. Chinas leadership last year confirmed it will bring total emissions volume into its emission-reduction strategy to support carbon intensity from 2026 and use it as the main gauge after hitting peak emissions, spurring hopes that an absolute cap is on the horizon. Some analysts are urging China to aim high. The country needs to cut at least 30% of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 compared to 2023 levels for the world to have a chance to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, according to Myllyvirta. If Beijings 2035 targets are very moderate, then most probably it wont aim for steep reductions by 2040, either, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That target is within Beijings grasp if it continues to deploy clean energy at its current pace, according to a separate analysis by Myllyvirta. That makes the goal China sets for its non-fossil energy installations by 2035 also very important, he told me. Room for Disagreement Some Chinese scholars have argued that the countrys emissions wont need to drop immediately and drastically after they peak for the country to hit its carbon-neutrality goal. Teng Fei, deputy director of the Institute of Energy, Environment and Economy at Tsinghua University in Beijing, told Dialogue Earth that he did not expect to see big falls in Chinas emissions in the five years following the peak. He pointed to modelling that projected a gradual fall between 2035 to 2040, and an increasingly steep downward curve afterward. The View From the UK Piers Forster, a professor of physical climate change at the University of Leeds in the UK, compared Chinas plans to adopt emissions caps and potentially incorporate them into official five-year plans to the UKs successful use of carbon budgets, which limit the countrys total amount of greenhouse gases emissions over a five-year period. Since the implementation of carbon budgeting in 2008, the UK has halved its annual emissions compared to 1990 levels. Notable President-elect Donald Trump has argued that the U.S. should buy Greenland since his first term in the White House. The island, with 56,000 inhabitants, is an autonomous territory of Denmark, and both the Danish government and local authorities have repeatedly said that the island is not for sale. But that hasnt deterred the president-elect. 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, he wrote on Truth Social last month as he announced his pick for ambassador, PayPal co-founder Kenneth Howery, to Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greenland is about three times the size of Texas and is situated northeast of Canada. Denmark ruled the island for more than 200 years and retains some control over its foreign policy, The Washington Post noted. We are not for sale and will never be for sale, Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede has said. Trump, meanwhile, argues that owning Greenland is a national security imperative. The U.S. does have a base on the island, Pituffik Space Base, and the island is in a strategically important location for missile defense and space surveillance missions, according to The Post. The base was constructed at the beginning of the Cold War. The island measures over 800,000 square miles and has plenty of natural resources, such as oil and rare earth minerals. In 2019, Senator Tom Cotton wrote in a New York Times op-ed that there are strategic benefits to buying Greenland, pointing to China trying to buy an old U.S. naval base on the island in 2016 and several attempts by the country to build airports there. An aircraft carrying Donald Trump Jr. arrives in Nuuk, Greenland on January 7, 2025. President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested that the U.S. buy the island (Ritzau Scanpix/AFP/Getty) Denmark controlled the island from the early 18th century until 1979. The island is now self-ruled when it comes to local issues, a Danish government site states. The Nordic country also maintains the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic as an autonomous territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2009, Greenland approved the Self-Government Act, leading to home rule, but defense and foreign policy matters are still up to Denmark. Former Danish foreign minister Martin Lidegaard told The Post in 2019 that The Greenlandic people have their own rights. Greenlands residents are Danish citizens and have two representatives in the Danish parliament. The countrys Indigenous peoples are a majority of the population on the island. The U.S. has considered buying Greenland in the past: The administration of President Andrew Johnson authorized a report in the 1860s finding that the islands natural resources could be a good investment, but the idea went nowhere at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration of President Harry Truman offered $100 million for the island just after the end of the Second World War. Because of its natural resources and industries, buying the island could cost as much as $1.7 trillion, The Post estimated. Last month, the Danish government announced new defense spending for Greenland of about $1.5 billion. Denmarks Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the plans to increase defense spending on the island were made before Trumps fresh calls to buy Greenland. The state Capitol. (Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) Virginia NAACP announces priorities on eve of 2025 legislative session. Courthouse News Why hundreds of bills the General Assembly continued met quiet deaths. Richmond Times-Dispatch Herrity, Salgado join race for Virginia lieutenant governor. The Washington Post 3 former Virginia Beach sheriffs deputies arraigned on murder charges. The Virginian-Pilot Virginia nightmare nurse Erin Strotman accused of racism as she targeted black babies by fracturing their legs. Daily Mail SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX One cannot say for certain that Rep. Mike Johnson was deliberately lying during his acceptance speech to return as Speaker of the House. He read what he claimed was a prayer recited by President Thomas Jefferson "each day of his eight years of the presidency and every day thereafter until his death." It is always technically possible that the Louisiana Republican is so profoundly ignorant of history that he didn't know that statement is preposterous on its face. As the Thomas Jefferson Foundation notes on its website, Jefferson doubted "the efficacy of prayer." They add that "Jefferson rejected the notion of the Trinity and Jesus divinity. He rejected Biblical miracles, the resurrection, the atonement, and original sin." He saw Jesus as a secular philosopher and wasn't a "Christian" in the way most people understand the term. Perhaps Johnson is unaware of this, but it is worth remembering that Johnson has previously proven to be an enthusiastic liar, usually displaying his telltale smirk when he's about to let loose with one of his whoppers. Last week, for instance, he backed Donald Trump's lies that the U.S.-born terrorist who attacked New Orleans was to be blamed on the "wide open border." Johnson wasn't just one of 147 Republicans who tried to steal the election on January 6, 2021, by refusing to certify it. He was a leader in the effort to use false claims of a "stolen" election, heading the amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court, demanding they use these lies as an excuse to throw out the election results. So it's entirely plausible that the fake "Jefferson prayer" was searched for on Google before copy-pasted into the teleprompter. When one searches for the prayer, however, at the top of the results is the debunking offered by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, which notes that the text appeared to have been written decades after Jefferson's death. However, the biggest tell that Johnson was knowingly lying was how he introduced the prayer, saying it's quite familiar to historians." Why mention historians if you didn't consult a single one? Johnson was likely trolling, snidely mocking historians, who would soon correct his "mistake" in mainstream and social media. Whatever deliberation Johnson used in his mendacity, however, what matters is that by using a fake "Jefferson prayer," he was nodding to and advancing one of the primary tactics of Christian nationalists: rewriting history to favor right-wing lies over truth. Want more Amanda Marcotte on politics? Subscribe to her newsletter Standing Room Only. Johnson is tight with David Barton, a Christian nationalist advocate who masquerades as a "historian" and has spent decades passing off lies as "history" to advance his false claim that America was never intended to be a secular nation. Barton's lies are so egregious that his 2012 book about Jefferson was pulled by his publisher. This did not curtail his enthusiasm for disinformation one bit. He's also a big believer that "demons" are everywhere, invisibly pulling the strings wherever progressivism or secularism are advanced or protected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barton's main contribution to the Christian right helping transform it into Christian nationalism was instilling the idea that facts do not matter, and "history" can be whatever conservatives want it to be. This tendency accelerated and became normative in the Republican Party under Trump, whose non-stop lying offered even more permission to right-wingers to tell themselves dishonesty is no sin if it serves their cause. Writing for UC Berkeley research in 2022, media specialist Edward Lempinen explained that Christian right leaders routinely preach now that they are in an "all-or-nothing struggle for existence, where the end justifies the means." Democrats have become so demonized in this view, Berkeley political scientist Paul Pierson added, Christian conservatives believe they "cant coexist with these other folks because theyre coming for you, and theyre coming for your family." Trump's pick to run the Office of Budget and Management, Russell Vought, has spent years arguing Christianity is under existential threat, and the only way to protect itself is through taking over government to turn secular democracy into something closer to a Christian theocracy. This paranoid fantasy of Christian persecution creates an umbrella justification for any terrible behavior, so long as it advances this theocratic goal, including breaking the law, stealing elections, violence, and, of course, lying. Christian nationalists rationalize their will to dominance on false claims that they are the "true" Americans and the rest of us liberal Christians, non-believers, non-Christians are interlopers. That's why fake history is central to their project. Barton, for instance, focuses mainly on falsifying evidence that the founders didn't "really" believe all that stuff about the separation of church and state they wrote directly into the Constitution and defended in the Federalist Papers. Instead, he concocts a fictional history where they wanted Christianity imposed by law on the nation. But this project of Christian nationalists rewriting history has expanded well beyond false or misleading quotes from the founders about religious liberty. Of special interest is propping up phony histories that paint American slavery in an honorable light, justify white supremacy, and lie about the lives of civil rights leaders. There are also efforts to erase the history of feminism, falsely portraying suffragist leaders as hostile to a woman's right to bodily autonomy. It's probably just a matter of time before they start claiming the riot at Stonewall was in opposition to LGBTQ rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moms for Liberty was founded, in large part, to push fake history into American classrooms. With their lobbying and the cooperation of Republicans like Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, they placed texts in public schools that falsely portrayed slavery as a benevolent institution, akin to a jobs training program rather than lifelong forced labor. They removed biographies of civil rights heroes like Rosa Parks, whitewashed the genocide of native people in the U.S., and erased damning facts about the life of Christopher Columbus from classrooms. Lying about long-ago history may seem like an easier lift since the people being lied about are dead and can't defend the truth. But, as Heather "Digby" Parton wrote yesterday at Salon, conservatives have grown so accustomed to rewriting history that they even deny a history the entire country witnessed with its own eyes four years ago: the insurrection of Jan. 6. 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. As Charlie Warzel and Mike Caulfield wrote in the Atlantic for the Jan. 6 anniversary, "The function of this bad information was not to persuade non-Trump supporters to feel differently about the insurrection," but to "reinforce the beliefs that the MAGA faithful already held." That they can rewrite the story of something we all saw live on television suggests to me that this is less a sincere delusion and more an act of collective lying. This would have been harder for average American conservatives to participate in years ago, I suspect, but times have changed. Years of watching Trump lie shamelessly without consequence has convinced them it's cool for them to do it, too. And having Christian leaders from every corner lie about history puts a moral veneer on it as if lying is a holy act rather than a sin. In this light, Johnson's fake prayer reads less as a mistake and more as a diss to both Thomas Jefferson and all the liberals who share his views about religious freedom and democracy. In the interest of historical accuracy, it must be noted that Jefferson was a bad person, who didn't just own slaves but repeatedly raped at least one of them, Sally Hemmings. But Jefferson is an important historical figure because he was a preeminent advocate for enlightenment values like freedom, democracy, and reason all values that Johnson rejects, preferring a religious authoritarianism that eschews reality-based information. Johnson's not a stupid man. I suspect he's well aware that Jefferson would be appalled to see a religious fanatic who tried to overturn an election in charge of the House of Representatives. But Johnson is fully aware he's alive and Jefferson is dead. Spitting on the founder's grave is an unsubtle way to celebrate the triumph of Christian nationalism over two centuries of liberal democracy. The cargo ship Eagle S seemed entirely unremarkable as she left port in Russia bound for Turkey on Christmas Day. The vessel, registered to a company in the United Arab Emirates and flying the flag of the Cook Islands, departed Ust-Luga, near St Petersburg, carrying a load of unleaded petrol. But as she sailed through the Gulf of Finland, something unexpected happened: an outage was detected on Estlink 2, one of two massive subsea power links between Finland and Estonia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two weeks later, Finnish authorities now suspect that the crew of Eagle S thought to be part of Russias ghost fleet deliberately dropped her anchor and dragged it along the seabed for some 60 miles in an attempt to sever the cable and cause havoc. Moscow denies involvement. Finland seized the Eagle S tanker carrying Russian oil on suspicion that it damaged the Finnish-Estonian Estlink 2 power cable - Jussi Nukari/Lehtikuva / AFP The incident is the latest example of so-called grey zone tactics being used against critical underwater infrastructure, after a Chinese ship caused similar damage to a Baltic Sea internet cable in November and the bombing of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022. And as Britain becomes more dependent on offshore wind farms and underwater power inter-connectors under Ed Milibands net zero drive, the prospect of further attacks is one of several headaches that military chiefs are having to confront along with the risk that the turbines themselves will interfere with radar meant to detect incoming attack. Grey zone warfare of exactly this type is going to be a huge issue this year, says Emma Salisbury, an associate fellow at the London-based Council on Geostrategy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given the importance of subsea cables and other infrastructure to the UKs energy needs, its an area where I could see a lot of threats coming to the fore in a very similar way to what weve seen in the Baltic. On Monday, new figures showed that wind power is Britains single biggest source of electricity. An attack on the undersea cables that link turbines to the mainland would therefore be able to trigger widespread blackouts. In 2024, some 29pc of supplies came from wind farms compared to just 25pc from gas-fired power plants. And under plans unveiled by Miliband, the Energy Secretary, the Government wants offshore wind alone to generate at least half of all electricity by 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This growing dependence will pose both security challenges and opportunities, according to experts. On the one hand, switching away from a highly centralised energy system dependent on a small number of coal and gas-fired power plants to one that is more dispersed and relies on thousands of turbines, solar farms and batteries should make it harder to knock out at once, notes Salisbury. But the push towards offshore wind farms also presents major complications, including how you protect so many turbines and the infrastructure that connects them out at sea. According to the Crown Estate, which owns the seabed within British territory, there were 3,352 turbines operational or under construction at the end of 2023. Thousands more will have to join them by 2030 to make Milibands clean power plan a reality. And they will need infrastructure, such as the 50 offshore substations and more than 100 cables that bring power ashore today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That infrastructure as well as electricity inter-connectors between the UK and Europe is vulnerable to grey zone tactics used by commercial ships such as Eagle S, as well as even harder-to-detect interference from underwater drones. Its hard to monitor which ships might be a threat, particularly in a really busy shipping lane like the Baltic or the North Sea or the Channel, says Salisbury. And its also easy for people to pass something off as an accident, because lots of sea infrastructure does get damaged every year. Someone might say, Whoops, our bad, we didnt realise we were dragging our anchor over your cable. Its also not hard to imagine one having an accident near a wind farm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What you need is eyes on your infrastructure, through patrol, surveillance and monitoring. But neither the Royal Navy which now operates a historic low of just 14 destroyers and frigates nor the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) currently have the manpower to keep tabs on all this, Salisbury warns. At the moment, Britains seabeds are protected by five Astute-class attack submarines, RAF maritime patrols and RFA Proteus, a specialist vessel for the protection of critical underwater infrastructure that was sped into service following the Nord Stream attacks. But Russian submarine activity in the North Sea and the English Channel is on the rise, along with more overt snooping by Moscows surface ships many ostensibly classed as research vessels. The spy ship Yantar was shadowed by British ships in the Irish Sea in November as she sailed suspiciously close to subsea telecoms cables. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Navy has a lot of other things on its plate, as does the RFA, and they dont have the funding, frankly, to be able to commit to the amount of patrolling that would be necessary to fully protect our offshore infrastructure, Salisbury says. But this is something we need sea power for, so the Government should be considering it as part of the strategic defence review. Another security headache wind farms are causing relates to the countrys air defences, with the Royal Air Force concerned that turbines are interfering with radar signals. The problem occurs when their blades reflect the electromagnetic pulses pinged out to detect incoming aircraft and missiles, generating unhelpful background noise for the system operators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each blade on a turbine can generate a false return, creating the potential for massive disruption from some sites. The first two phases of Dogger Bank, the UKs biggest wind farm, boast 190 turbines alone. Professor Justin Bronk, an air power expert at the Royal United Services Institute, says the expansion of windfarms in the seas off northern and western Britain will be of most concern. An attack by an adversary such as Russia would likely involve bombers approaching from the Arctic to maximise their chances of avoiding detection, while submarines would attack from deep Atlantic waters, he said. Milibands plans to boost wind power envisage a huge deployment of floating windfarms in exactly the areas where interference with radar could make Britain most vulnerable, including waters off Scotland and in the Celtic Sea between Cornwall and Ireland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It means the Ministry of Defence (MoD) may be forced to boost investment in airborne detection systems that form the front line in Britains early-warning system if it cannot solve the technical issue. To an extent, Britains current lack of a comprehensive ground-based missile defence system renders concerns about the impact of windfarms somewhat academic, in that a missile detected so close to shore probably couldnt be shot down anyway. But with the need for such a system now seen as increasingly important, Bronk says: Unless there is a breakthrough in the ability to leverage windfarms or at least mitigate their impact on ground-based radar, Britain is going to need a more capable airborne detection service. Since 2019, the MoD has poured millions of pounds into research around possible solutions to the radar issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One possible answer is putting radar-absorbing paint on turbines and their blades of a kind not dissimilar to that used for stealth aircraft such as the F-35 while another could be so-called machine learning, or clever computer software, to scrub phoney radar signals out of readings automatically. A different approach entirely could also be to turn the wind turbines themselves into assets, rather than liabilities, by fixing an array of sensors to them such as cameras, microphones and radio aerials that could detect the presence of enemy threats. Project Njord, the MoDs programme for mitigating radar problems in North Yorkshire, the Shetlands, the Hebrides and Cornwall, will potentially involve all these solutions as well as changes to pieces of radar equipment or their locations. It has been allocated 840m overall. Meanwhile, when it comes to protecting subsea cables and wind farms from interference, the Council on Geostrategys Salisbury says an obvious, low-cost solution could be to deploy autonomous, underwater drones. These could patrol back and forth along cables or be sent to investigate suspicious activity, for example. Theres quite a lot of scope for new technologies to take on this role, she adds. Its a good use case for uncrewed vessels, which would help a lot in terms of having the mass needed to surveil everything. Ultimately, Bronk points out, wind farms may have a positive national security effect if they leave Britain less exposed to Russia and the European gas market. Miliband has also made that argument repeatedly. Whether that proves the case, however, may depend on our ability to stop the kind of attack for which Finland and Estonia are now paying the price. A government spokesman said: Our mission is for clean power by 2030 because clean, home-grown energy is the best way to protect bill payers and boost Britains energy independence. As we build the next generation of large-scale offshore wind farms, we are looking at innovative ways to mitigate any impact on the UKs air defence capability. 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 National Police Service (NPS) is taking statements from the four young Kenyans who were abducted in December 2024. The statement came shortly after the victims resurfaced on Monday, January 6, with minimal details about their captors. The NPS revealed that one of the abductees, Bernard Kavuli Musyimi, who had been reported missing at Ngong Police Station, presented himself at Mois Bridge Police Station. He has since reunited with his family and is now assisting the police with their investigation. Bernard Kavuli Musyimi, who was reported missing at Ngong Police Station, presented himself at Mois Bridge Police Station today and is now providing investigators with further information, the NPS statement said. The police service also acknowledged media reports about the resurfacing of three other abducteesBilly Wanyiri Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Rony Kiplagat. These individuals had been reported missing at Embu Police Station, Kabete Police Station, and Thogoto Police Post. The NPS assured the public that its officers would reach out to the families for support and additional information to aid ongoing investigations. Following media reports that Billy Wanyiri Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Rony Kiplagat who were reported missing in Embu Police Station, Kabete Police Station, and Thogoto Police Post respectively have reunited with their respective families, we wish to assure the public that our officer will reach out to them and their families and give them all the necessary support as we seek further information to assist ongoing investigations, the statement added. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively investigating all missing persons cases across the country, with many currently pending in court and others under investigation. The NPS urged the public to assist in these investigations by sharing any relevant information about missing persons. We therefore wish to appeal to members of the public to collaborate with us, by providing any information that may aid in investigations or tracing their whereabouts. All information is helpful and can be reported to the nearest police station or our toll-free lines 999, 911, 112 or FichuakwaDCI 0800722203, the police statement added. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. X / @justinbwells Donald Trump wants the United States to buy Greenland for its strategically vital resources, to bolster US security and give China a bloody nose. But he also wants to strike his largest ever real estate deal because Greenland is massive, he loves maps and because he is very, very stubborn. Who owns Greenland? Mr Trumps desire to swell the US with a territory roughly the size of Texas and Alaska combined is nothing new. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He tried to bounce Denmark into selling Greenland, which is geographically in North America, during his first presidency but was rebuffed. Mr Trump cancelled a 2019 state visit and branded Mette Frederiksen, Denmarks prime minister, nasty after she said the idea was absurd. Why does Trump want Greenland? Like all hard-nosed negotiators, Mr Trump doesnt take no for an answer and took the chance of naming his ambassador to Denmark to revive the demand this weekend. As his son Donald Trump Junior arrived for a visit to Greenland, Mr Trump declared: I am hearing that the people of Greenland are MAGA. Credit: @OJoelsen/@DonaldJTrumpJr/X Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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!. Worlds largest island Greenland is a very large, strategically important landmass. You take a look at a map. Im a real estate developer, Mr Trump said in an interview for The Divider, a book by The New York Times Peter Baker and The New Yorkers Susan Glasser. I love maps. And I always said: Look at the size of this. Its massive. That should be part of the United States, he added. However, Greenland is actually much smaller than it appears on maps because of the Mercator projection, which makes it look a similar size to Africa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The projection is used to create flat maps but makes landmasses larger the further away from the Equator they are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To impress his billionaire allies Mr Trump reportedly insists that the idea of making Americas largest land buy since the Alaska Purchase in 1867 is all his own. But according to The Divider, Mr Trump got the idea from Ronald Lauder, a billionaire heir to the Estee Lauder cosmetics fortune. Mr Lauder, 80, a longtime friend of Mr Trump and a New York-born political activist, reportedly offered himself as a back channel negotiator with the Danish government. Donald Trump Jr visited Nuuk, Greenland - Emil Stach Some Left-leaning commentators have branded Mr Trumps coveting of Greenland as a neo-colonist urge to emulate nationalist autocrats like Vladimir Putin. The United States has history when it comes to buying land. Its last land purchase was 1917s acquisition of the US Virgin Islands from Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before then it bought Alaska from the Russian Empire (which was widely seen as an expensive mistake until gold and oil were discovered there), Louisiana from France, as well as territory from Mexico and the Philippines, now independent, from Spain. Space base and missile defence The US offered Denmark $100 million (79 million) for Greenland after the Second World War. Washington instead secured a defence treaty centred on a US military base on Greenland. Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, has been strategically vital ever since the first years of the Cold War. It is the US militarys most northerly outpost and is a vital location for missile defence and space surveillance, housing Americas solid state phased array radar system, known colloquially as the ballistic missile early warning system radar network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buying Greenland would ensure continued access to the base, although there is no suggestion that it is at risk. Pituffik Space Base, formerly Thule Air Base, in northern Greenland, has been strategically vital ever since the first years of the Cold War - Ritzau Scanpix/Reuters Mr Trump, nevertheless, is adamant he wants Greenland for national security reasons. 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, the president-elect said on social media this weekend. Aside from the base, Greenland is on strategic sea lanes like the Northwest Passage and the Greenland-Iceland-UK gap, and is beneath Arctic flight paths. It is on the shortest route from North America to Europe. Russia and Chinas Arctic alliance Moscow and Beijing have been working hand in glove to bolster their influence in the Arctic, which is a key region for transportation and resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate change could mean new waterways and new territories for settlement being opened, raising the likelihood of a race for the Arctic amid competing superpowers. Chinese leaders see the region as a new crossroads of the world, a new source of raw materials and new avenues for manifesting its growing power, the US defence department has said. In 2019, Republican politicians warned China was trying to build airports on Greenland and even buy an old American naval base there. There is no guarantee that the almost 57,000 Greenlanders will be willing to become part of the United States - IDA MARIE ODGAARD/AFP Beijings activities are being facilitated by Russia, which continues to invest heavily in both military and economic terms in the Arctic despite its illegal war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US officials have also been concerned by joint Russian-Chinese military drills in the area, which seem aimed at Washington and its Nato allies. Buying Greenland would be a show of strength from the US at a time when its rivals are encroaching into the region. Treasure trove of rare minerals Greenland is a potential treasure trove of natural resources, including rare earth minerals. These minerals are vital for high-end military, green energy and industrial technologies but their production and supply is dominated by China. Beijing last month imposed export controls on the minerals in response to US controls on advanced semiconductors. Greenland is a potential treasure trove of natural resources, including rare earth minerals. - Arctic-Images/Digital Vision Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some 37 of the 50 minerals seen as critical by the US could be found in moderate or high quantities in Greenland, based on a 2023 survey. Lessening US dependence on Chinese supplies would be a geopolitical boost but some experts point out that buying Greenland would mean subsidising an area with the lowest per capita disposable income of any Arctic region except Russia. Greenlands ice-sheet boasts 7 per cent of the worlds fresh water and its undeveloped oil and gas resources are thought to be the third largest in the Arctic. Can Trump even buy Greenland? There is no guarantee that the almost 57,000 Greenlanders will be willing to become part of the US. In 2009, the island assumed self-rule from Denmark under an agreement that gives it the right to one day declare independence. By becoming part of the US, Greenland would gain independence from one country while coming under the control of another. In 2009, the island assumed self-rule from Denmark under an agreement that gives it the right to one day declare independence - IDA MARIE ODGAARD/AFP It would also be an expensive acquisition. In 2019, the Washington Post estimated that Greenland could cost up to $1.7 trillion on the assumption that the island was up for sale. Mute Egede, Greenlands prime minister, has said this is not the case. We are not for sale and we will not be for sale, he said in response to Mr Trumps comments, adding: We must not lose our long struggle for freedom. 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 Brighton community, and beyond, is still reeling after the tragic loss of a middle school girl and her grandmother at the hands of the girls father in what police say was a terrible act of domestic violence. Child, 11, among 3 dead after Brighton murder-suicide: police Community leaders at Willow Domestic Violence Center are reminding the public about the range of resources available to those who may be experiencing domestic violence and those looking to be a support. Lisa Noland is the Director of Prevention Education at Willow who explains there are increases in cases around the holiday season, but it is something happening in communities across the county and year-round. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, DV is an issue that happens everywhere. It doesnt have any boundaries or discriminate based on your income, based on your neighborhood. Weve certainly seen that across Monroe County for years and years. Weve reported numbers that are close to 50/50 split between city and between suburbs of where we see clients who are experiencing DV, Noland said. If youre experiencing DV, theres help and support out there for you. Were here at Willow, there are other resources out in the community 24 hours that can help and support you. We want survivors to know that theyre not alone. If youre experiencing this in your home whether its the holidays or not, you dont have to do this alone. Theres people and support and resources out there who can help you, she added. Over the weekend, Brighton Police identified the victims in the murder-suicide as 11-year-old Anne Mancuso, and her maternal grandmother, Mary Liccini. Anne was a 6th grader at Twelve Corners Middle School, described by her district as a gift to not only her family, friends and teachers, but the whole community. The district had counseling services available as students, faculty and staff returned to school Monday morning after the long winter break with community counseling available at the Middle School Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Brighton lights up to honor 6th grader killed in murder-suicide Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to talking to your own children, or for those who may work with children, Noland shared this advice: One of the most important things about parenting: when theres a DV issue and certainly one as tragic as this one is keeping the lines of communication open with your kids. Even young kids, although they might not understand the full scope, they understand a lot more then we give them credit for sometimes, so really being honest with them at an age-appropriate level, she said. Asking them questions and allowing them to ask questions and theyre going to ask probably a lot of questions and theyre probably going to ask the same questions over and over because their brains are trying to make sense and process whats happening. So really being patient with our children, but really, TALK TO YOUR KIDS! If theyre not talking about it, ask them about it. Its in there, their friends are definitely talking about it, and you want to make sure that you understand what their experience is, as well. For those who may be experiencing domestic violence, it can show up in many ways and is not something easily defined. Noland explained, while mental health status and/or substance use/abuse may be factors contributing to an increased risk of domestic violence, those are not considered causes. She noted domestic violence is a learned behavior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the time when were thinking about DV, people are looking for physical signs of abuse; bruising and scaring but what happens long before the physical piece is other types of abuse and we see that verbal and emotional, Noland said. Its name-calling, its put-downs, its the control of movement. Its tracking peoples location, its shaming and blaming a survivor; making them feel guilty for anything; that stuff is happening long, long, long before were seeing any signs of physical violence in a relationship. Once were seeing physical violence, thats the end of the cycle, not the beginning so we have to know that a lot of things have happened before that, and we need to back up and think about the pattern. Willow defines domestic violence as one actor exercising power and control over another. While it, again, is challenging to ascertain, there are other warning signs which may indicate a bigger problem. So, when were looking at that pattern of power control, we are looking at behaviors like isolation from friends and family, were looking at control of finances, were looking at control of children, really a control of choices. When somebody feels like they dont have choices, their choices are extremely limited, or they fear making decisions of what the consequences will be. Those are behaviors that were looking out for as red flags, Noland said. For those looking to be a support or wanting to help in whatever way possible, a crucial component is keeping the lines of communication open and consistent. If you know someone who is experiencing DV, if youre worried about them, reach out to them. Say, Hey Im thinking about you. Hey, do you need help? Can I support you? What do you need? and then stick with them. dont leave them behind, dont let them feel alone, Noland said, and expanded, If youre a community member and youre trying to help somebody, its the same thing: understanding what their barriers are so you dont rush to judgement to say just get out of there, just change your phone number and just fill-in-the-blank, whatever. If it was that easy, they would do it. Its not, we have to understand this is a very complicated issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Willow has a 24/7 hotline which can be a bridge to connecting with a wealth of other resources. When a person connects with the Center, it is free, confidential and there are no obligations for any action. What happens when you call our hotline is that were just going to ask you questions about whats going on, and were going to listen. And were going to listen without judgement and without forcing anybody to do anything that they dont want to do. If you want to call us and just talk, great; if you want to call us and use all the resources and make all the other phone calls to other places, well help you do that. The control is in your hands with us on what you want to do. It is in your hands. We dont make decisions on behalf of other people, Noland said. Willow can be reached at 585-222-7233 via text or call, as well as on its 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 RochesterFirst. The Winooski School District is considering a sanctuary schools policy to protect immigrant students and their families by restricting access to its campuses by federal immigration authorities. The school board is scheduled to meet Wednesday at 6 p.m. to discuss the proposed policy, which was first developed by the National Immigration Law Center and other advocacy groups. The meeting is open to the public and will also be streamed. The goal, the district says, is to provide a safe place for its students and their families if faced with fear and anxiety about immigration enforcement efforts. Read the Winooski Sanctuary Schools PolicyDownload Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy would: Limit the sharing of student and family information with federal immigration authorities; Restrict immigration agents access to school sites;. Prohibit unauthorized school staff from collaborating with federal immigration authorities; and Provide resources for immigrant students and their families. The Winooski School District site shall establish itself as a safe place for its students and their families to seek help, assistance, and information if faced with fear and anxiety about immigration enforcement efforts, the proposed policy says. The policy also calls for the district to create a resource and information site for immigrant students and families and build partnerships with community-based organizations and legal services organizations that assist families facing deportation. The policy provisions would call for the district to refuse all voluntary information sharing with immigration agents and deny information requests by immigration agents pending review by the superintendent. Should an immigration agent request access to a school site, the Superintendent will ask for the immigration agents credentials, ask the agent why the agent is requesting access, and ask to see a warrant signed by a federal or state Judge, the proposal says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district said the policy is based on a Model Campus Safe Zone Resolution created by the the National Immigration Law Center and revised by a volunteer task force of Vermont educators and advocacy organizations. The model policy cites a United States Supreme Court ruling in a 1982 case that public schools cannot deny children access to education based on their immigration status. President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to create the largest deportation force in U.S. history. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. As we move into late-week, a significant winter storm is becoming more likely for much of Arkansas. While forecast details are still subject to change, heres what we know so far. Timing Thursday Morning : Snow showers could begin as early as 7 AM in parts of southwest and western Arkansas, including Texarkana, De Queen, Ashdown and Mena. Thursday Afternoon/Evening : Precipitation spreads statewide, with snow likely along and north of I-30 and I-40. South Arkansas may see a wintry mix of sleet, freezing rain, and eventually snow as colder air moves in. Friday: Snow continues through the morning and afternoon, gradually tapering off into the evening. Lingering flurries may last into the overnight. Little Rock opens warming center as temperatures get dangerously cold, UAMS doctor offers tips on staying warm Threats and Impacts Travel Hazards Icy and snow-covered roads will make travel dangerous statewide, especially during peak snowfall Thursday evening into Friday. Areas south of US-270 and into eastern Arkansas could see sleet and freezing rain, adding an icy glaze to roadways. 2. Snow Accumulations Southern Arkansas: A wintry mix transitioning to snow could lead to lighter but still impactful accumulations. Perhaps a dusting to 3 inches of snow could cover the ice seen earlier in the storm. Southwest, West and Central Arkansas: This is where the heaviest snowfall totals will be possible, perhaps 3-7 inches. Some higher amounts are possible. Northern and Northeast Arkansas: About 3-5 inches of snow is expected in these areas. Northwest Arkansas: With less moisture in this part of the state, expect smaller amounts between 1 and 3 inches. Little Rock locals react to freezing temperatures rolling through central Arkansas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3. Cold Temperatures Bitter cold persists through the weekend, with highs near freezing and overnight lows in the teens and 20s. Any melted snow will likely refreeze, extending travel difficulties into Saturday and Sunday. This may linger into early next week as well. Looking Ahead Areas that see heavier snowfall totals will take longer to melt. This could leave lingering impacts into early next week, potentially affecting school and work schedules as roads gradually thaw. North Little Rock mechanic provides tips on preparing car for winter weather Stay Prepared Download the Arkansas Storm Team App for updates, alerts, and forecast adjustments. Prepare for prolonged cold, and avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of this storm. Stay safe and stay tuned for updates as we track this winter storm! Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A week after Kimberly Robinson stepped down as Calumet Township trustee following her guilty plea to wire fraud, the race to fill her seat is already drawing a growing pool of candidates. The contest for the position, which oversees township assistance funds, could spark further political upheaval in Gary as two sitting Common Council members consider leaving their posts to vie for the role. Robinson vacated the office after pleading guilty last month in U.S. District Court in Hammond to a single count of wire fraud. Court documents revealed Robinson admitted to completing fraudulent applications and purchase orders totaling $11,200 in township funds for her personal rent. In 2023, Robinson received a salary of $102,969, according to state records on government salaries in Indiana. Wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years, though such a sentence is unexpected in Robinsons case. Should Robinsons plea deal be accepted, she will be required to serve one year of probation and in addition to repaying the aforementioned $11,200, pay an additional fine of $8,700. The process to fill Robinsons seat is already underway, led by Lake County Democratic Party Chairman Jim Wieser. Under Indiana law, the trustees replacement will not be decided by voters but through a caucus of Gary precinct committee persons. Wieser said candidates must submit their declaration of candidacy and a statement of economic interest by Monday, Jan. 13. Tai Adkins We start signing committee men in at 5:30; at 6 oclock, the doors will close, and anyone after that wouldnt be permitted to vote, Weisner said. You have to be there by 6, and then we begin to conduct the caucus. We do that until theres an individual who wins by a majority of votes of those present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garys Common Council could possibly lose a member, as both council President Tai Adkins and at-large member Darren Washington have expressed their interest in the seat. Darren Washington Adkins joined the council as the 4th District representative after winning the 2019 election and served as vice president until the 2023 departure of then-President William Godwin, who resigned prior to taking a position at the White House. Adkins has held the position of council president since. Washington, a former township board member, ran unsuccessfully against Robinson in the 2022 primary. The council begins this years session with a different cast than began last year, as Mark Spencer and Rob Brewer have moved on to the Indiana Senate and the Lake County Council, respectively. The post Wire Fraud Scandal Sparks Race for Calumet Township Trustee Seat appeared first on Capital B Gary. FITCHBURG, Wis. (WFRV) Authorities in southern Wisconsin are reminding motorists that highway crossovers are designated for emergency and highway maintenance vehicles only. On Friday, Jan. 3, shortly before 9:00 a.m., an oversized load attempted to turn around using a crossover on U.S. Highway 14 after the truck driver realized the vehicle would not clear the railroad bridge on the northern border. Suspect sought after Wisconsin truck theft leads to shelter-in-place order Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident required assistance from nearly the entire Fitchburg Police Department dayshift, along with the Dane County Sheriffs Office and the Wisconsin State Patrol. U.S. Highway 14 was temporarily shut down to allow the truck to back up to the crossover and turn around safely. Wisconsin man sentenced to 12 years for leading meth and cocaine trafficking organization The situation was eventually turned over to the Wisconsin State Patrol. Fitchburg Police expressed appreciation for the patience of motorists impacted by the road closure. Authorities also commended the truck driver for recognizing the clearance limitation and taking steps to avoid a potentially dangerous situation, despite the permit routing the load in that direction. 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. President William Ruto announced that the government has successfully stabilized the countrys economy and will now shift its focus to implementing key development projects. Speaking at the Kerio Valley Interdenominational Prayer Service in Tot, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Ruto highlighted that economic challenges over the past two years had delayed major development initiatives. However, he assured Kenyans that this year, they would witness the execution of various programs aimed at improving infrastructure and other critical sectors. Now that we have stabilized our economy, we can actively engage in the robust development of infrastructure, Ruto stated, reinforcing the governments commitment to long-term growth. Despite the challenges, the President noted significant progress across several key areas, including the economy, security, agriculture, healthcare, education, and electricity connectivity. He expressed confidence in Kenyas future, stating, I want to tell Kenyans that Kenya is going places. We are going to change the destiny of this country. Ruto reflected on the situation when he assumed office just over two years ago, recalling the food shortages and rising prices that led to public protests. He credited the governments strategic planning and the subsidized fertilizer program for boosting food production and lowering the cost of living. On the issue of security, the President assured that the governments efforts to eliminate threats, particularly banditry in the Kerio Valley, have yielded positive results. He added that the government is committed to restoring essential services such as health facilities, schools, and other social amenities in the region. In the next three months, all the schools must be reopened and all children must be back to school, Ruto confirmed, emphasizing the governments dedication to returning normalcy to areas affected by insecurity and banditry. The event was attended by several Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, and Members of Parliament. JANESVILLE, Wis. (WFRV) A 28-year-old Wisconsin man was arrested on Monday night after he was illegally parked in the roadway and had allegedly sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl. According to the Janesville Police Department, shortly after 7:15 p.m., officers were patrolling in the 2300 block of Harvard Drive when they saw an illegally parked vehicle in the roadway. Authorities in Wisconsin reexamine cold case of Robert Christians 1977 disappearance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officers made contact with the occupants and identified them as Edward Diaz, 28, and a 15-year-old girl. After further investigation, it was found that Diaz and the girl had sexual contact just prior to the officers contacting them. Diaz was arrested for several charges and brought to the Rock County Jail. Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Diaz is formally charged with: Second-Degree Sexual Assault of Child Felony Child Enticement-Sexual Contact Felony Driver hospitalized after vehicle falls through ice on Shawano Lake The 15-year-old girl, who police say was not injured in any way, was turned over to her family. Diaz had a cash bond set at $5,000 and is expected to make his initial appearance in court on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional details were 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. MADISON, Wis. (AP) Republicans who control the Wisconsin Legislature are moving quickly to place a measure on the April ballot that would enshrine the state's already strict voter ID requirement into the state constitution. The move would make it more difficult for Democrats to soften the 14-year-old law or overturn the requirement in court. Other states have taken similar steps in recent years to put voter ID requirements in the constitution. Voters approved it in Mississippi in 2011 and North Carolina voters in 2018, while Minnesota voters rejected it in 2012. The voter ID constitutional amendment is the first proposal being considered by the Wisconsin Legislature this year. The session began Monday, there was a public hearing Tuesday, and the Senate was expected to pass it Wednesday. The Assembly was expected to give final approval next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats on Tuesday accused Republicans of rushing to enshrine a requirement that they argue makes it more difficult to vote. I'm irritated, Democratic Sen. LaTonya Johnson said at the hearing Tuesday, held less than 24 hours after lawmakers were sworn into office. There are definitely more important issues than this." Johnson noted that the proposal was coming three weeks after a school shooting about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the state Capitol but was taking precedence over gun control measures. A student shot and killed a fellow student and teacher before killing herself. Constitutional amendments must pass the Legislature in two consecutive sessions and then be approved by voters before taking effect. The Legislature passed the voter ID proposal last session and must approve it again by Jan. 21 to get it on the April ballot for voter approval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Control of the state Supreme Court also hangs in the balance in that April election. The race for an open seat will determine whether liberals maintain control for at least the next three years. The Democratic-backed candidate, Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford, was the lead attorney in a 2011 lawsuit challenging the voter ID law. Republican Sen. Van Wanggaard, lead sponsor of the measure, said Tuesday that he was not willing to risk the law being struck down by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. There are no pending legal challenges to voter ID, even though the state Supreme Court has sided with Democrats in other major cases, including throwing out Republican-drawn legislative maps and overturning a ban on absentee ballot drop boxes. We can be sure that a new lawsuit challenging its constitutionality is coming, Wanggaard said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Enshrining the requirement in the constitution would make it more difficult for a future Legislature controlled by Democrats to change than a state law. Democrats who have long opposed voter ID also picked up seats in the Legislature in November under newly enacted maps more friendly to them and are hoping to regain majority control of at least the state Senate in two years. The possibility of Democrats regaining majority control have led Republicans to enact a number of constitutional amendments to protect laws they have passed. Republicans put five constitutional amendments before voters last year, the most in a single year since 1982, and four more could be on the ballot in the next two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has proposed giving voters the ability to place constitutional amendments and other proposals on the ballot, going around the Legislature. Republican leaders signaled that would be rejected. Polls have shown wide public support for voter ID law, despite opposition from Democrats and advocates who say it makes it harder for people to vote, especially the elderly and those without an ID. Even if the amendment is approved, lawmakers could still decide what types of photo IDs are acceptable. Voters without a photo ID could still cast a provisional ballot, as they can now. The ballot is counted if the voter returns later with a photo ID. Wisconsin enacted its law in 2011, one of the first actions Republicans took after they gained majority control from Democrats after the 2010 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wisconsin is one of nine states where voters must present a photo ID to cast a ballot, the strictest requirement in the country, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. A total of 36 states have laws requiring or requesting that voters show some sort of identification at the polls, according to NCSL. Wisconsin's voter ID law has been challenged in whole or in part numerous times since it was enacted, but the requirement has survived. At this point, I think we need to stop calling it a surplus. You may already know that Wisconsin ended its 2024 fiscal year last June with a larger-than-expected $4.5 billion state budget surplus. Once again setting up Gov. Tony Evers and the Republican-controlled Legislature to bicker over how to apply it in our 2025-2026 biennial state budget. While surplus is the technical name for it, by referring to it as that, it implies we got here by thrifty strategic budgeting rather than partisan gridlock at the cost of struggling Wisconsin taxpayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because for three budget cycles, we have witnessed the same series of events: Evers gives a progressive, expensive budget proposal. Republicans zero out his requests and craft their own conservative document with lots of tax cuts. Evers uses his line item veto powers to, sometimes dramatically, change the Republicans budget, then every politician pumps out press releases about their reactions to this process and then we finally have a budget that ultimately leaves programs underfunded without significant tax relief and an unappropriated balance, aka a surplus. When you hear Wisconsin budget surplus, ask these questions But is that the best way to describe it? Here are some questions to consider when considering our collective fiscal health. For instance, do we have a surplus or: Underfunded public schools? Wisconsin once again held a record number of public school referendums in 2024. Taxpayers are being asked again and again to pick between raising their property taxes or living with crumbling local schools. A cash strapped university system? In the face of flat state aid, the University of Wisconsin System is calling for $855 million state funding in the attempt to stave off tuition increases, avoid layoffs and keep two year branch campuses open. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A child care industry on the brink? Nearly nine in 10 working parents say child care costs them time and productivity at work. Lost wages and fewer sales mean less tax revenue for local, state and federal governments. The Council for a Strong America estimates the child care crisis already costs Wisconsin families, businesses and governments a combined $1.9 billion every year. Municipal and county governments struggling to provide local services? Despite 2023's monumental Act 12 shared revenue bill last year, local leaders from municipalities and counties across the state say the changes fell short of solving their budgetary challenges leaving some to turn to operational referendums to raise the local property tax levy just to maintain the services they currently provide. Do we have two state prisons that are literally uninhabitable? 2024 was marked by a lot of troubling news about our corrections system. From lengthy lockdowns, to inmate deaths, to spotty medical care and even the arrest of Waupuns warden and staffers for alleged misconduct and abuse. We also still have two (barely) operating state prisons that were built in the 1800s that state leaders havent been able to find the political will to close for almost half a century. A looming assisted living and nursing home crisis? The Silver Tsunami is coming, but our assisted living and nursing home quality and accessibility are already under duress. Understaffed facilities, underpaid and undertrained employees, some of the lowest Medicaid reimbursement rates in the country, increased demand for high-needs facilities, all of these problems will only get worse across Wisconsin in the coming decade if left unaddressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Are middle and lower class people struggling to get by? Republican lawmakers have made it clear that their priority this year is to provide tax cuts. Will they prioritize giving the bulk of the benefits to the more needy filers making less than $100,000 instead of those making more than $100,000? It's not a surplus when vital services starved for resources A surplus should not be celebrated when there are so many people and programs that are starved for resources. Im not arguing that we can fix all of these issues in one budget cycle but its inexcusable to continue to kick the can and leave an unappropriated balance in the general fund, especially while the states rainy day fund is at a record-high of $1.9 billion. Opinion: Wisconsin's new maps didn't undo gerrymandering. They're as bad as the old ones. Will this be the year we finally see a compromise? Im a cockeyed optimist, so I will say yes, but I'm also not holding my breath. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kristin Brey is the "My Take" columnist for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Tony Evers and GOP lawmakers must shed state budget script | Opinion (WFRV) Officials with the Wisconsin State Patrol say Trooper Sconnie has returned on this National Bobble Head Day to remind drivers about the importance of mile markers. Courtesy of the Wisconsin State Patrol Courtesy of the Wisconsin State Patrol Courtesy of the Wisconsin State Patrol Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a post on social media, the Wisconsin State Patrol explains that mile markers are the blue and green numbered signs along all of the highways throughout the state. These mile markers are said to be installed either on the right side of the highway or in the median and are placed every mile or every two-tenths of a mile. Green Bay man dead, two others injured following head-on crash in Calumet County Troopers with the Wisconsin State Patrol say these mile markers are helpful for several reasons including the following: Creates fewer delays in responses for assistance Faster clearance of traffic incidents Leads to fewer secondary crashes Wisconsin State Patrol troopers add that drivers should always note their closest mile marker should they ever be in a situation where they need to call for assistance. 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. MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) The NYPD is searching for a suspect accused of attacking a 79-year-old woman in Manhattan on Monday. It happened on West 17th Street around 11:50 a.m. An argument broke out between the 79-year-old woman and the suspect, police said. The NYPD is searching for a suspect accused of attacking a 79-year-old woman in Manhattan on Monday. (Credit: DCPI) The suspect was accused of punching the woman in the head and face multiple times, according to authorities. The suspect then fled the scene going west on 17th Street, police said. The woman was treated at the scene by EMS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. SAN MARINO, Calif. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after firefighters battling a house fire in San Marino discovered the body of a woman inside, officials announced Monday. Fire crews responded to reports of the blaze in the 2000 block of Lorain Road just before 10 a.m., according to a news release from the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Sky5 captured aerial footage of the incident, with neighbors telling KTLAs Jennifer McGraw that they saw fire coming from the rear of the home, near the kitchen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt until after firefighters knocked the flames down that they made the gruesome discovery. Its definitely not normal, its pretty uneventful around here, one neighbor told KTLA. Ive lived here all my life, and I can say this is not common at all. I think Ive probably seen two big crimes happen in my 21 years of living here. An investigation is underway after firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside a burning San Marino home on Jan. 6, 2025. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside a burning San Marino home on Jan. 6, 2025. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside a burning San Marino home on Jan. 6, 2025. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside a burning San Marino home on Jan. 6, 2025. (KTLA) An investigation is underway after firefighters discovered the body of a woman inside a burning San Marino home on Jan. 6, 2025. (KTLA) Responding L.A. County Sheriffs homicide investigators quickly learned that a husband, wife and their two children live in the home and were working to figure out what the caused the fire and if theres been any reports of violence at the home in the past. Orange County teacher arrested for sexually explicit texts with 14-year-old boy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only thing weve been told is that there was a petty theft call and a wild animal call, but nothing of any domestic violence nature, Lt. Steve DeJong told reporters. Authorities added that the womans family is cooperating with the investigation and that they are trying to determine if the fire was simply a horrific accident or involved potential foul play. Surveillance cameras in and around the property may provide investigators with that information, though officials have to obtain search warrants before getting the video. Due to the sensitivity of [the investigation], we are going to wait before we make any statements about what were uncovering, DeJong 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 KTLA. FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A woman is accused of posting threats about killing a Franklin County judge on social media. According to the criminal complaint by Chambersburg Borough police, Racquel Perez, 49, of Chambersburg, was charged after she allegedly posted onto X about killing the judge multiple times. Police said they reached out to the judge on Dec. 27 regarding the threats, learning that Perez was the one making them on her social media. Her posts were also flagged by the Judicial Security Analyst with the Administrative Office of the Pennsylvania Courts, which was able to provide police copies of the threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im soon be justified in homicide, Perez is accused of posting to X Dec. 29. I cant afford to lose everything rn. Thank you mr. (redacted) for nothing, step down please. Perez made three other posts threatening to kill the judge, according to the charges. Police say she had her known email account linked to her X. Because of the threats, the judge expressed a high concern for the safety of himself and his family due to Perez actions which are against a known public official, police wrote in the charges. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Livestream Alerts Perez faces four misdemeanor charges of terroristic threats causing serious inconvenience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is currently locked up in Franklin County Prison with bail set at $75,000, while she awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for Jan. 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 ABC27. (KTLA) A 23-year-old man in San Bernardino County is accused of killing his wife, authorities announced Monday. In a news release, officials with the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department said that on Jan. 5 at approximately 1:35 a.m., the suspect, identified as Twentynine Palms resident Carlos Zamudio, brought his 21-year-old wife, Savannah Encke, to the Hi Desert Medical Center emergency room in Joshua Tree. The 21-year-old woman, according to the sheriffs department, was suffering from severe injuries, while responding deputies from the sheriffs Morongo Basin Station also noted that Zamudio had injuries to his face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite life-saving measures, Encke was pronounced dead at the hospital, prompting investigators with the sheriffs departments specialized investigation division to assume the case. Remote desert road to Joshua Tree National Park, off Interstate 10. (Photo by: Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) During the investigation, it was determined Zamudio was responsible for the injuries leading to Enckes death, the release noted. No information was provided on a potential motive for the violence, nor how the fatal encounter unfolded. The 23-year-old was taken into custody and booked at the Morongo Jail for murder. Anyone with any information about this investigation is urged to contact Detective Owenn Domon, with the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Departments Specialized Investigation Division at 909-890-4904. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-78-CRIME or leave tips online at www.wetip.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 KTLA. (FOX40.COM) A teacher employed at a Woodland school was arrested on suspicion of having a sexual relationship with a student in Monterey County, according to the Monterey County Sheriffs Office. The agency said on Tuesday that the teacher, Mika Yoneda, was actively employed as an English teacher at Woodland High School and was arrested on the grounds of the school. California US Attorney Phillip Talbert announces resignation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheriffs office said it received a report of a male student at North Monterey County High School allegedly involved in a sexual relationship with a teacher. The agency determined Yoneda was that teacher and had worked at that campus in 2022 before leaving the following year. She reportedly worked as a private tutor in addition to working as a teacher. New national monuments to be established in Northern, Southern California The sheriffs office said it is not aware of any incidents involving students from the Woodland area, and it asks anyone with information about the case to call Sergeant Nicholas Kennedy at 831-755-3773. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodland Joint Unified School District issued the following statement: The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority. At this time, we are not aware of any WJUSD students who are connected to this criminal investigation. However, we are cooperating with the Monterey County Sheriffs Office and the teacher has been placed on administrative leave pending the results of the Monterey County Sheriffs Office investigation. Yoneda is being held on bail of $1,500,000 and faces several charges. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 News. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir SingOei has opposed the renewed calls to extend the presidential term limit, stressing the importance of adhering to Kenyas constitutional and political framework. In a statement, PS SingOei argued that extending the presidential term beyond the two terms outlined in the constitution would contradict the countrys democratic values. His remarks come amid increasing discussions among some of President William Rutos allies, who are pushing for an extension of his presidency beyond the two five-year terms set in the 2010 constitution. On Sunday, Tiaty Member of Parliament William Kamket warned that he would push for reforms to extend President Rutos term to 24 years, following the model of the late President Daniel Arap Moi, who ruled Kenya for a quarter of a century. Kamket, a second-term lawmaker from Baringo Countythe birthplace of Moihinted at the possibility of extending the presidents rule beyond the constitutional limit. If they joke, you know I come from the county of 24 years. Baringo County knows about 24 years; we know how to manufacture a president who survives for 24 years. If they joke, we can push for an extension beyond the two terms, Kamket said. In response, PS SingOei emphasized that any attempts to undermine Kenyas constitutional order, including calls for regime change under any guise, should be firmly opposed. Third-termism is incompatible with our constitutional and political order, as is regime change in all its forms. Both must not be tolerated, SingOei stated. Kamket further dismissed those who criticize President Rutos administration, asserting that Rutos victory in the last general election was a true reflection of the peoples will. He expressed confidence that the president would secure a second term despite opposition. 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 declared. Additionally, Kamket criticized those accusing the government of state-sponsored abductions, particularly targeting Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. Kamket accused Natembeya of being complicit in extrajudicial killings during the previous regime and fueling insecurity in Kerio Valley. The Tiaty MP praised the government for silencing the guns in the North Rift, a region plagued by violence since the KANU era. He acknowledged the efforts taken to restore peace, stating, What are you telling the President? That we have abductions here and there, yet you are the ones who abducted people. More than 100 people were killed in Tiaty through extrajudicial killings. They were announcing empty operations. The Simpsons did nuclear power dirty. With towers looming over Springfield, three-eyed fish swimming the lake, and an inept Homer running things, the shows nuclear power plant is a perpetual existential risk. Its a reliable running gag to be sure, but also a reflection of a society thats soured on what used to be the bountiful energy of the future. That turn has put human civilization in a pickle. The costs of renewables like wind and solar have fallen so sharply in recent years its caught even researchers off guard. Day by day, electric utilities around the United States are finding clever ways to store that energy, like tapping into idle electric school buses and using the Earth itself as a giant battery. Still, humans cant make the sun always shine and the wind always blow, so currently utilities have to burn planet-warming natural gas in power plants when renewables arent available. Nuclear power plants generate electricity cleanly and reliably, but the technology has fallen out of favor. When nuclear power burst on the scene, it was the first time that we would break with scarcity that we had known throughout human history, said environmental journalist Marco Visscher, author of the book The Power of Nuclear: The Rise, Fall, and Return of Our Mightiest Energy Source, publishing today. This abundant energy source bloomed, and this was nothing less than a revolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through the early 1980s, operators started construction on an average of 19 new reactors a year. But as Visscher recounts, a variety of factors conspired to turn nuclear power from a miracle technology into a villain and the butt of Simpsons jokes thanks in large part to Chernobyl and other accidents. By the 1990s, new projects dropped to just a handful each year. Now, though, nuclear is once again having a moment, potentially working alongside renewables to accelerate the decarbonization of the grid, or even power data centers and artificial intelligence models. Grist sat down with Visscher to talk about the technologys roller coaster history. This conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity. Q. Going back to the early history of nuclear energy, it started with the horrific use of atomic weapons against Japan. It transformed into this technology that in its early days, people really did think was going to be the future of energy. A. When the first nuclear plants opened in the 1950s and early 1960s, there were these grand promises: Its clean, its cheap, its modern. It could power plants for desalination, so there would be plenty of clean water around the world. It could produce fertilizer on a large scale, so that yields would be much higher. Nuclear energy could provide the fuel for trains and ships and airplanes. Q. A section of the book talks about regulation becoming a problem, but not in the way people might think. Perhaps there was an overabundance of caution that started to turn nuclear power into something the public should worry about. A. Regulation of nuclear power came through fears of exposure to radiation. These fears had originally everything to do with fear of nuclear war and the fear that people would get sick from the fallout. When nuclear plants were being built, people started to wonder: Isnt that a source of radiation as well? Couldnt their radiation somehow escape? Or if an accident occurs, what if it could explode like a bomb? In the 50s and 1960s, there was a call for more regulation, and the regulation was all about keeping radiation as low as reasonably achievable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The focus became on safety, and the safety limits for a safe dose got lowered over and over again. Meanwhile, the coal industry, for instance, didnt have all these regulations, nor did natural gas plants. So those industries could innovate, they could become more effective. But the nuclear power industry seemed sort of paralyzed by this narrow focus on bringing down any possible exposure to radiation. Q. On top of that, we have a few disasters Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima. But you argue in the book that among energy disasters especially considering the ravages of climate change, brought about by the burning of fossil fuels they were used to further beat down the nuclear industry. A. Chernobyl was, of course, a unique design, in unique circumstances. But those reactors have no similarities to the reactors used in the U.S. at that time, but still, reactors in the U.S. had to go through multiple safety updates. It brought in money for some companies working in the nuclear sector, but it didnt make the nuclear power plant any safer. All these fears and all the suspicions gave rise to the idea that any accident in a nuclear power plant must be some kind of apocalypse. But the reality is much more mundane. Its nothing like the fantasies that we have in our heads. You just called Three Mile Island a disaster, but really the radiation that was leaked into the environment was so low it didnt cause any health effects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Fukushima, nobody died of radiation. Nobody will die of radiation. This is the scientific consensus on Fukushima: Theres no discernible increase in cancer or in birth defects or heart attacks or deformities in coming generations. But these accidents didnt help the nuclear industry to move on. After Fukushima, Germany decided to close down its nuclear reactors one by one. Japan did the same. Accidents rarely happen, but they have a huge impact. Q. As the world turned on nuclear power and started decommissioning plants, we had to get that electricity somehow, and it was largely from natural gas. Can you talk about that missed opportunity, that transition, and our doubling down on natural gas as were waiting for renewables to ramp up? A. What typically happens when a nuclear plant closes, a natural gas plant opens later on. Nuclear is a competitor to coal and natural gas, not so much to renewables, and this is simply because a nuclear power plant can be turned on and off, just like a coal plant and a natural gas plant. They work when you want, basically, and this is different with renewables like wind and solar that are dependent on the weather. Q. You write that renewables cant provide reliable power on their own. But utilities are finding more ways to store that energy in battery banks and other long-duration energy storage systems. Is there not a future where we can rely on renewables exclusively? Do we need nuclear? A. Maybe one day it will be possible to run the entire world on renewables. I think it makes so much more sense to look at a proven technology that is available and that has shown that it can decarbonize the economy of a modern society. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of course, nuclear power and wind and solar can work together, right? All societies, all economies, need base load power so there is a continuous, available, reliable source of energy that ensures there is enough electricity to meet demand. There is energy poverty in the world, and there will be such a rising demand for electricity in the next decades. Q. Unlike fossil fuels, which are stagnant theres really no improving natural gas or coal many companies are working on things like small modular nuclear reactors. Do you think that will help nuclear power grow once again? A. Some of these designs are intended for remote areas. Others are designed for coastal cities. All of them are said to be cheaper, of course more efficient, easier to build. Theyre safer. Some say they require less uranium and produce less waste. But I was thinking: Why exactly do we need innovation? And it seemed to me that many of these innovations are designed to comfort people. Reactors should be smaller because we dont like things to be big small is beautiful, thats an environmental credo. We love hearing that it is safer at least some of the startups think so because we think that nuclear power is so dangerous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont want to be too cynical or skeptical about small modular reactors. I think they serve a purpose. They may have a psychological effect, because small modular reactors may allow long-time critics of nuclear power to ease up, to open up. Those are reactors Im okay with. Q. What, in your opinion, does the world risk by not going all in on nuclear? A. We are going to have to live with climate change anyway. I dont think nuclear or any technology can stop global warming, to the extent that we do not feel the consequences anymore. That doesnt mean that were screwed, and that doesnt mean that we dont have to do anything. It means well have to step up and do much more. It would be ridiculous not to use nuclear power. It would be a crime to close down nuclear power plants that function perfectly fine, as they have done in Germany, but also in other countries. And I think there should be much more of an awareness eventually in politics that we can beat the fossil fuel industry if we really expand our nuclear fleet. This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Will the world fall in love with nuclear power once more? on Jan 7, 2025. CATL is the world's largest battery manufacturer, with a market share of about 37%. Martin Schutt/picture alliance via Getty Images A key Tesla supplier said it may take legal action over a designation as a Chinese military company. CATL, the world's largest battery company, was added to the Pentagon blacklist on Monday. It's unlikely to affect CATL much but could lay the groundwork for more sanctions under Trump. A key Tesla supplier slammed the US government's decision to designate it a Chinese military company as tensions between the countries rise. The Department of Defense on Monday added CATL, the world's largest producer of electric-vehicle batteries, to its list of "Chinese military companies" operating in the United States. The video-game titan Tencent was also added to the list, which tracks companies the US military believes work with its Chinese counterpart. Shares in the two companies dropped on Tuesday following the news. Both CATL and Tencent denied they had any association with the Chinese military and said they were prepared to contest the decision with legal action if necessary. CATL said in a statement that it "has never engaged in any military-related business or activities, so this designation by the Department of Defense is a mistake." CATL is by far the biggest player in the global battery industry, which is dominated by China. The Ningde-based company is thought to control about 37% of the world's battery market, compared with the 17% held by the runner-up, BYD, a fellow Chinese firm. As a result, CATL is a crucial supplier for numerous Chinese and Western EV manufacturers. Ford is licensing technology from CATL for batteries built in a new factory in Michigan. A Bloomberg report said Tesla was CATL's biggest customer. The head of CATL said last year that the battery manufacturer was also working with Elon Musk to build fast-charging EV batteries. The Pentagon designation does not directly affect CATL's and Tencent's ability to do business in the US but serves as a warning for US businesses that their association with the companies may bar them from future defense contracts. It could also lay the groundwork for tougher sanctions under the Trump administration. Companies have managed to reverse the designation before the Apple rival Xiaomi was removed from the list in 2021 after taking legal action. The move is the latest in a series of regulatory measures targeting Chinese industry by the Biden administration, which has also slapped 100% tariffs on Chinese EVs and proposed banning Chinese software from cars sold in the US. President-elect Donald Trump has also vowed to slap crippling tariffs on goods imported from China, floating a 60% tariff on all Chinese goods during his campaign. WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, Manhattan (PIX11) Whether theyre a block away, miles outside of the congestion pricing zone, or even in locations outside of Manhattan, many people in the Tri-state are saying that theyre impacted by the pricing practice, now that its here. They say they anticipate the program to increase traffic volumes outside of the congestion pricing zone, and in the process make it more difficult to park and cause more car idling and pollution. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uptown in Washington Heights, there have been concerns for many months that drivers from North Jersey, the Bronx, and northern and eastern suburbs will drive into Manhattan above the zone, park their cars on the street, and then take the subway into the pricing zone. Doing so would increase the volume of cars on Uptown streets significantly, according to Victor Edwards, a Harlem resident. We already have an influx of cars [from] New Jersey and other locations that park in our area and then take the train to other parts of the city, said Edwards, the chairperson of Community Board 9, in an email to PIX11 News. This surely will increase now. On Monday, the off-ramp from the George Washington Bridge into Washington Heights, where some of the increased traffic volume had been predicted, traffic was flowing smoothly all day. Having issues with the congestion pricing toll? Heres who you call Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the first day of the work week tends to have lighter volume, and Mondays snow emergency may have also lowered the number of cars. The vehicles that were on the streets of Washington Heights appeared to be vying for a limited number of parking spaces as usual. I was lucky, I have to admit it, said Victor Pesantis, from behind the wheel of his SUV, a moment after finding a parking space on Haven Avenue, just south of the GW Bridge. I was lucky, he emphasized. Another driver was getting ready to pull out of a parking space when he spoke with PIX11 News. He said that he works in a medical office in the neighborhood, and usually drives over the GWB from Rockland County to his job. He said that the neighborhood is challenging, but bearable, for parking on most days. However, he added, Theres days Ill go to Midtown. So get me then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was referring to the part of Manhattan where the congestion pricing zone is. It extends from the southern tip of Manhattan to 60th Street, all the way across Manhattan island. How does congestion pricing impact tourists visiting NYC? Just half a block outside of that boundary is where Home Depot relocated its largest Manhattan store three months ago. Contractors like Dave Ramoutar, who were coming and going from the hardware store, said that while there are routes in the city that they can take to make sure they stay outside of the pricing zone, in the end, they wont be spared from the congestion fee, every day. Im the cheapest contractor in the city, I swear to God, Ramoutar said. But now I cant be the cheapest anymore, sad to say. He said that hell have to add the congestion pricing fee to what he bills customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carmen De La Rosa, the New York City councilmember who represents Washington Heights, has introduced legislation, along with Councilmember Lynn Schulman, from Queens, that would create residential parking permits in neighborhoods. The measure would only allow residents of certain neighborhoods to park in their neighborhoods. At least five other major U.S. cities have such permits: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. De La Rosa said through a spokesperson that she is still pursuing the legislation and that the implementation of congestion pricing quickens the effort. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The Minneapolis City Council has approved a consent decree agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that will implement major reform within the Minneapolis Police Department. Per the agreement, it will be carried out under the watch of an appointed, independent court monitor. The agreement comes after a two-year investigation from the DOJ into the MPD's patterns and practices. The investigation was prompted in part by the 2020 police killing of George Floyd, which sparked racial justice and anti-police brutality protests nationwide. The Justice Department released its findings in a report in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It found that the Minneapolis Police Department was engaged in a pattern of discriminatory law enforcement practices, used unjustified deadly force in encounters with suspects, engaged in unreasonable use of force in encounters with young suspects, and at times failed to give proper medical aid to people they had taken into custody. PHOTO: A photograph of George Floyd (C) is displayed along with other photographs at the Say Their Names memorial exhibit at Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade in San Diego, Calif., July 20, 2021. (Mario Tama/Getty Images) Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division spoke on the findings at a press conference Monday, hours after the consent decree was announced. "The decree sets forth remedies to address the problems identified in our findings," Clarke said. She identified some of those the remedies as: limiting use of force, closely regulating or eliminating some types of force altogether, and adopting a system to thoroughly and regularly evaluate uses of force; ensuring officers intervene to prevent unlawful uses of force and seek prompt medical care as needed; avoiding unnecessary stops by focusing traffic enforcement on improving public safety; protecting journalists from retaliation by law enforcement while safeguarding their access to demonstrations; and limiting the use of police officers in health-related cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She explained that the decree established four core goals: constitutional policing, strengthening trust and public confidence in law enforcement, promoting public safety, and ensuring freedom from discrimination and bias. "With this consent decree we now have a roadmap for reform," she added, calling it a "critical step forward" in the city's efforts to enforce constitutional policing. She called on the community to continue making suggestions for the police department to improve, above and beyond the perimeters of the consent decree. "All eyes remain on Minneapolis," Clarke said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: California police department agrees to reform after investigation into racist texts Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also attended the briefing on Monday. He called the murder of George Floyd "a tragedy that resonated across the globe," while noting that it was "felt most acutely by Black residents of Minneapolis." Of the consent decree, Frey said, "This legally binding agreement will give the city the tools and the clarity we need as we work to build trust and accountability in our communities." "There aren't any shortcuts, and success is not guaranteed; we'll have to work for it," he said, calling for cooperation among the community, law enforcement and government officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frey added that the institutional issues at play did not begin with Floyd's murder, and the work will be an ongoing process, as well. "Our administration will wake up every morning and got to bed every night with the clear goals in mind that we need to hit," Frey said, affirming that the city's commitment to change would be "permanent," not just confined to the decree's length. The event was also attended by Chief Brian OHara of the Minneapolis Police Department, who called the decree an "opportunity" to not only comply with its terms but to exceed expectations. "Together we will make Minneapolis a place where everyone feels safer and where they know that Minneapolis cops have their back," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: NYC increasing police presence in transit system: 'People don't feel safe in our subways' The DOJ's 2023 report found that "the systemic problems in MPD made what happened to [Floyd] possible," and such problems had continued despite reform efforts. "We also found that MPD officers routinely disregard the safety of people in their custody. Our review found numerous incidents in which MPD officers responded to a person saying that they could not breathe with a version of, 'You can breathe, you're talking right now,'" said Attorney General Merrick Garland. Garland cited a case from 2017 during which an MPD officer shot and killed an unarmed woman who he said had "spooked him" when she approached his squad car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The woman had called 911 to report a possible sexual assault in a nearby alley," he said. MPD officers were also found to stop, search and use force against people who are Black and Native American at disproportionate rates, according to the report. PHOTO: People hold their hands up during a protest sparked by the death of George Floyd while he was in police custody in Minneapolis, Minn., May 29, 2020. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) MPD is already under a consent decree from the state to "make transformational changes to address race-based policing," following a 2023 agreement between the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and the City of Minneapolis. The human rights agency described the consent decree as "a court-enforceable agreement that identifies specific changes to be made and timelines for those changes to occur." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, the Minnesota Department of Human Rights similarly found that the Minneapolis Police Department engaged in a pattern or practice of race discrimination in violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act. This led to a state consent decree agreement that is ongoing. MORE: Chief Justice John Roberts sounds alarm over potential defiance of court rulings The decree still needs to go through other levels of approval, including the mayor's office, before it is filed in federal court, according to Council President Elliott Payne. "On behalf of the council and the entire city, I'd 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," said Payne. "We are just beginning and we know we have a long way to go." ABC News' Alexander Mallin contributed to this report. 4 years later, George Floyd's murder leads Minneapolis police to take on reform originally appeared on abcnews.go.com By Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen met virtually on Monday with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and raised concerns about "malicious cyber activity" carried out by Chinese state-sponsored actors, the Treasury Department said in a statement. Treasury last month reported that an unspecified number of its computers had been compromised by Chinese hackers in what it called a "major incident" following a breach at contractor BeyondTrust, which provides cybersecurity services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congressional aides said no date had been set yet for a requested briefing on the breach, the latest in a serious of cyber attacks against government agencies that the U.S. government has blamed on Chinese state-sponsored actors. Those attacks have occurred even as the Biden administration has worked to improve communications with China and better manage the competitive relationship, including through establishment of economic and financial working groups. "Secretary Yellen ... expressed serious concern about malicious cyber activity by PRC state-sponsored actors and its impact on the bilateral relationship," Treasury said, describing the call as candid, in-depth and constructive. The two officials also discussed economic developments in both countries, and reviewed progress made during meetings of the working groups, Treasury said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yellen reiterated concerns she has raised repeatedly about China's non-market practices and policies and industrial overcapacity, noting they would continue to adversely affect the U.S.-China bilateral economic relationship unless addressed. Yellen delivered a similar message when she met He in Beijing in April, warning him to rein in excess industrial capacity before President Joe Biden announced steep tariff increases on Chinese-made electric vehicles, batteries, solar products and semiconductors. She also underscored the "significant consequences" that Chinese companies would face if they provided material support for Russias war against Ukraine, Treasury added. President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20, has threatened to impose steep tariffs on Chinese imports in excess of 60%, much higher than those imposed during his first term in office. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Michael Perry) (Bloomberg) -- US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Chinas Vice Premier He Lifeng of her serious concern regarding malicious cyber activity a week after the US said Chinese state-sponsored hackers had breached the Treasury Departments computer networks. Most Read from Bloomberg Yellen also warned of consequences for Chinese companies that support Russia in its invasion of Ukraine and discussed Chinese industrial policies, including overcapacity, that she said have harmed US companies and workers, according to a Treasury Department account of the virtual meeting on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exchange with He, the point-person for US-China economic and trade affairs, marked whats likely to be the secretarys final direct outreach to Beijing. About 100 government computers were compromised in the breach, including those of senior department leaders, according to a US official and another person familiar with the matter. As President Joe Biden has sought to stabilize relations between the worlds two top economies, Yellens department has been a key facilitator for discussions on financial and economic issues, with working groups meeting with their Chinese counterparts last month. Yellens use of the call with the vice premier to express concerns about hacking underscores a key point she has made about the formal channels of communication she helped to set up with China that they give senior American officials a built-in forum to candidly raise issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said last month that bilateral dialogue would continue to be seen as valuable. In late 2023, she characterized a lapse in contacts with Beijing as dangerous. Relations between the two superpowers are likely to take on a more confrontational tone after President-elect Donald Trump takes office Jan. 20. Hes warned of slapping tariffs of as much as 60% on Chinese imports, and has signaled he intends to pursue aggressive trade policies toward Beijing that marked his first term. Yellen and He met over two days last April in the southern Chinese city of Guangzhou, agreeing to set in motion formal talks over what the US has warned is Chinas industrial overcapacity. The concern by Washington and other countries is that Beijing is fostering the production of goods, particularly electric vehicles, that outstrip domestic demand, forcing them onto export markets where they threaten to undercut competitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yellen last year also pressed He on what Washington believes are Chinese exports that help sustain Russias military amid its war against Ukraine, including drone technology. China during the talks expressed grave concerns about US economic and trade restrictions, state-run Xinhua News Agency reported at the time. The alleged China-backed hack at Treasury followed a wider infiltration of Americas telecom system. Late last month, the White House said nine US telecommunications firms had been breached by another state-sponsored Chinese hacking group known as Salt Typhoon. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) The YMCA of Centre County Anti-Hunger Program is holding a food drive to assist families and homeless individuals in need. The food drive is called Canuary and the goal is to collect ready-to-eat soups and pasta sauces. Director of the program Mel Curtis says after the holidays the organization sees many individuals that need assistance and foods like this can be used at any time to provide a warm meal. In a Facebook post made by the organization, it says, The most important is the ready-to-eat soups. This is a needed item for the kids on cold days and also for the homeless population. We also need pasta sauce due to the large amount of pasta that we have had donated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Childrens Book Festival returns to Johnstown for a weekend of fun Were going out and feeding the homeless. And, you know, some of them can heat stuff like that up on a fire or a camp stove, Curtis said. Food and housing insecurity are growing problems in Centre County. With higher prices, many have to decide to pay bills or put food on the table. I still dont believe that a lot of people realize how bad it really is for a lot of families. A lot of people at one point were paycheck to paycheck. Now that would be a great day if it was paycheck to paycheck for them. Theyre struggling to put food on the table and costs have risen, Curtis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Curtis says many Centre County schools assist with the food drive. Many classrooms create a friendly competition on who can raise the most items, however, its a much bigger lesson outside of the classroom. What many of the kids dont realize at first is what they are doing to help. This is called Canuary, but the reason why, is were trying to get food for people that are struggling to put food on their tables, Curtis said. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. Items can be taken to the Bellefonte YMCA, Moshannon Valley YMCA, Penns Valley YMCA, and the State College YMCA. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A New York man and his company are facing charges after being accused of defrauding thousands of dollars in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from Ohio recipients. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Hafedh Al-Gahim, 52, of Brooklyn, New York, and his company Buffalo Discount Corp. were indicted in Cuyahoga County on theft, illegal use of EBT, money laundering, and telecommunications fraud. He and his company are accused of defrauding more than $125,000 in SNAP benefits from Ohioans, according to the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU). TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges came after the OIU, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and local law enforcement agencies, received reports of stolen benefits. They reported this was often due to card skimmers. Over a five-week period, more than 370 fraudulent transactions were identified involving Ohio SNAP recipients, the OIU reported. 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. An investigation showed that Al-Gahim and Buffalo Discount Corp. were responsible for the scheme. He would allegedly withdraw large sums of cash and use the proceeds for personal expenses, dining, and leisure activities. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has officially renewed its contract with Minet Kenya Insurance Brokers Limited, ensuring continued medical insurance coverage for TSC-employed educators and their families. This two-year extension follows discussions with key stakeholders in the education sector and guarantees that teachers can keep accessing essential healthcare benefits without missing a beat. Minet has been managing the TSC medical scheme since December 2022, and this extension keeps the same structure in place, covering everything from routine outpatient care to specialized treatments. Lets dive into the details so you know exactly what this means for you. Medical Coverage by Job Grades One of the standout features of the TSC-Minett medical insurance scheme is that it adjusts benefits based on your job grade. Teachers in lower job groups, like Primary Teacher II (Grade B5), get Ksh1 million in inpatient coverage and Ksh150,000 for outpatient needs. Meanwhile, senior educators, such as Chief Principals (Job Group D5), enjoy larger provisions, with Ksh3 million for inpatient care and Ksh450,000 for outpatient services. Some benefits however remain consistent across the board, regardless of your job group. For instance: Dental Cover : Ksh45,000 : Ksh45,000 Optical Cover : Ksh60,000 : Ksh60,000 Last Expense Cover: Ksh300,000 Maternity coverage, however, is scaled with job grades, ranging from Ksh120,000 for Grade B5 to Ksh300,000 for Grade D5. If youre a TSC-employed teacher between 18 and 65 years old, youre covered under this scheme. It also extends to your loved onesyou can add one registered spouse and up to four dependent children. These children are eligible for coverage from birth until age 18 (or up to 25 if theyre in school). And heres a thoughtful inclusion: theres no age limit for children with certified disabilities. Want to know what the plan actually covers? Lets break it down: 1. Inpatient Benefits Youre covered for almost everything youd need in a hospital. This includes: Doctors fees (surgeons, anesthetists, consultants) ICU and HDU care Medications and laboratory tests Imaging services like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs Specialized treatments, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy Costs for internal surgical appliances Essentially, if youre hospitalized, this plan has you sorted. 2. Outpatient Benefits Outpatient care is equally robust and includes: Routine visits to your general doctor or specialist Diagnostic tests Physiotherapy sessions Treatment for chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or hypertension HIV/AIDS care, including access to antiretrovirals This means you dont have to delay routine checkups or treatment for ongoing conditions. 3. Maternity Coverage For teachers planning or expecting children, the maternity benefits are especially generous. They include: Antenatal and postnatal care Delivery costs (normal and C-sectionwhether elective or emergency) Routine immunizations under the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunization (KEPI) With everything from initial checkups to delivery costs covered, its a reassurance every new parent will appreciate. 4. Dental and Optical Cover Need a root canal or a new pair of glasses? This plan wont let you down. Dental benefits include: Common procedures like tooth extractions and scaling (if medically necessary) X-rays and dentures for injury-related losses Dental crowns for restorative care For optical care, the benefits cover: Glasses and lenses Frames Ophthalmic surgeries and related ultrasounds These add-ons are crucial for everyday wellness, ensuring your vision and dental health get the attention they deserve. Additional Perks You Should Know This scheme isnt just about the basicsit also addresses more complex health needs. You can count on: Emergency evacuation (road or air) in critical situations (road or air) in critical situations International referrals for specialized care for specialized care Support for terminal illnesses like cancer and kidney failure Services for chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension Rehabilitation for substance abuse or work-related trauma When life throws a curveball, having these extra layers of protection takes a huge weight off your shoulders. By renewing its partnership with Minet Kenya, TSC ensures that teachers can focus on what really matterseducating the next generationwithout constantly worrying about healthcare costs. This continued coverage isnt just a convenience; its a lifeline for thousands of educators and their families. Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaking with reporters outside the Capitol Building on March 7, 2024. (Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury) Gov. Glenn Youngkin is doing an about-face on a budget proposal he agreed to last year that expanded the amount of credits incarcerated people with good behavior can earn to shorten their prison sentences. Earned sentence credits allow incarcerated people to trim the length of time they serve behind bars by earning the credits through completing various educational and training programs while maintaining good behavior. A 2020 law expanded the program to allow certain inmates to earn 15 days of credits for every 30 days served. The programs start date was delayed and, once Youngkin became governor in 2022, he blocked it through a previous budget amendment. A few GOP lawmakers also unsuccessfully sought to repeal it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the summer 2024 amid prolonged budget negotiations, Youngkin finally permitted the measure to take effect. About 800 people whod earned credits were released last July, such as Richmond-area resident Jeffrey Joyner. He immediately began looking for work, with hopes to someday own his own landscaping business. In the meantime, hes enjoyed spending time with his sister and nephews while getting back on his feet. Hes made sure his teenage nephew stays on top of his homework and hopes he can role model hard work for them. Joyner had spent some of his younger years in jail a few times before eventually landing in prison for armed robbery. Back then, he was addicted to drugs, which he said made him do things he never would have done in order to afford them. During his years in prison, he grew his faith in God and enthusiasm for the world beyond bars. Now, his nephews get to see him embark on new chapters of life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel like this is such a restart for me. My way of thinking has changed. Im not going back, Joyner told The Virginia Mercury in an interview last fall, a few months after his release. Criminal justice reform advocates stress that experiences like Joyners help reduce prison populations (and taxpayer dollars spent on them), bolster the workforce and reunite families. Youngkins current proposed budget amendments include a provision to reduce the credits from 15 to 4.5 for each 30 days served on a sentence. Youngkin had been able to block the credit expansion from being fully implemented before conceding to it in last years budget. His spokesperson, Christian Martinez, said in a text that Youngkin continues to express serious concerns about this program and its impact on victims and public safety across the Commonwealth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a concern shared by Attorney General Jason Miyares, who has routinely opposed the earned sentence credit expansions and requested the governor block their implementation. As groups celebrated the program taking full effect last summer, he issued a statement that cautioned about the chance for people to re-offend. I believe in redemption and am a strong proponent for helping our returning citizens re-enter society to live productive lives, Miyares wrote. However, aggressive retroactive sentence reductions for violent criminals with a high risk of recidivism undermines our justice system and disregards victims. As Youngkin revives opposition to the program this year, its unlikely that the measure will survive budget negotiations. Democrats, who have been more amenable to earned sentence credits, control both the House and Senate chambers. With Miyares seeking a second term as the states top attorney this year, pressing the matter may feature among his campaign promises. As attorney general, he has used the influence of his office to advocate against various other criminal justice reforms in the state legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginias 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 8 and runs through the end of February. This means that lawmakers will spend the next two months deliberating proposed legislation and eventually collaborating with Youngkin on state budget amendments. Chris Kaiser, a policy director at Virginias American Civil Liberties Union chapter, noted how previous years of robust debate over earned sentence credits has already occurred. The (legislature) determined that its good policy for public safety, its good policy for the states economy, and we hope its a non-starter this year again. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Police have issued an arrest warrant for a Houston man they allege fled the country after he kidnapped two women in November. Corey Pritchett Jr., 26, is accused of kidnapping the women after they went bowling with him in Houston on Nov. 23, according to a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE. He invited the women to ride ATVs, after which he took them to the bowling center, per the complaint. After two of his friends joined them, the women allege Pritchett and the two friends began to "act suspicious by constantly looking around." Pritchett allegedly told the women there was a rival group at the bowling alley, according to the complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, he offered to drop the women at one of their residences, but as he drove them, he allegedly began threatening them with a gun, per the complaint. Houston Police Dept. Corey Pritchett Jr. Corey Pritchett Jr. He called an unnamed woman, whose name was saved as "Future Wife" on his phone, and allegedly asked her if he "should just go ahead and do it," per the complaint. He allegedly indicated that nobody would be able to hear the two women scream and that "no one could ever find them," the complaint claims. The woman on the phone allegedly responded "yes," the alleged victims told police. (No such woman was named in the complaint; two November posts on Pritchett's Twitter account, where he has more than 264,000 followers, show his communication with a person who is named "Future Wife" on his phone). During the drive, Pritchett allegedly told the women: "I'm gonna f--- yall and kill yall." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He allegedly took away the women's phones and, at one point, shot his gun several times out his window, per the complaint. He eventually freed the alleged victims before leaving them by the side of the road and driving away. Investigators were unable to contact him and learned from his social media that he had gone to Dubai, per the complaint. The FBI said, however, that he had bought a one-way flight ticket to Qatar in December. It's unclear how he might have gotten from Qatar to Dubai, which is in the neighboring United Arab Emirates. SSG Record Label Corey Pritchett Jr. in Miami (Official Music Video) Corey Pritchett Jr. in Miami (Official Music Video) Pritchett has 3.9 million followers on his YouTube account @CoreySSG31, where he documents his life as a musician. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his recent posts, he shared about enjoying life in Dubai and trying to buy a house there. Two Instagram pages linked to his YouTube account were not available on Tuesday. 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. Pritchett is currently facing two counts of aggravated kidnapping, per Harris County court records. He did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests for comments. On his Twitter and TikTok accounts, he shared several videos calling the accusations fabrications, claiming he'd been "set up." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He posted photos claiming he was on his way back to the U.S., but it wasnt clear as of publication time if he has entered the country. "Guess I gotta meet with the FBI to see what the fuss about," he wrote in one post. Houston police were not able to confirm his current location or status when contacted. Read the original article on People Editor's note: The article was updated with figures provided by the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Jan. 6 that Russian forces had sustained significant losses over five months of fighting in Russia's Kursk region. "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," Zelensky added in his evening address. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He did not provide evidence to support the figures he cited for Russian casualties, so the Kyiv Independent could not immediately verify the information. Since the start of the Kursk incursion, Russia has also lost over 3,000 pieces of equipment and vehicles, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces claimed. This reportedly included 104 tanks, 575 armored vehicles, 330 artillery systems, 12 air defense systems, 12 multiple-launch rocket systems, a plane, and three helicopters, among others. Ukrainian forces had also taken 860 Russian soldiers as prisoners, which helped to facilitate exchanges and release of Ukrainian captives, according to the General Staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kursk region lies on the border with Ukraine's Sumy Oblast, which has been experiencing daily attacks since Russian troops were pushed out of the oblast and back across the border in April 2022. Ukrainian forces launched a large-scale operation in the Kursk region in early August, capturing sections of the territory. However, the Russian military claims it has regained control over much of that land. On Jan. 5, Ukraine reported initiating a new offensive in the area but shared limited information about it. Reports from Ukrainian and Western sources suggest that around 11,000 North Korean troops are aiding Russian forces in the region. Russia has not confirmed or denied their involvement. The Russian Defense Ministry reported on Jan. 6 that Ukrainian forces were stopped, and their primary units were destroyed near Berdin, a settlement along a road leading northeast to the city of Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky highlighted the creation of a "buffer zone" in the Kursk region, where Russia had stationed substantial military reinforcements. According to him, this development has hindered Moscows ability to deploy those forces to critical battlefronts in eastern Ukraine. "Importantly, the (Russian forces) cannot now direct all this strength to our other directions, particular to Donetsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, or Zaporizhzhia oblasts," he said. Read also: North Korean troops suffer over 1,000 losses in Kursk Oblast in past week, White House official says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Alexander Lukashenko apologized in a call for helping Russia invade Ukraine. "I am not in charge," Zelenskyy quoted the Belarusian leader as saying in early 2022. Lukashenko's spokesperson denied that an apology took place but confirmed that a call happened. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Belarus' leader, Alexander Lukashenko, apologized over the phone in early 2022 for his country's role in allowing Russia to invade Ukraine. In a wide-ranging interview with the podcaster Lex Fridman published on Sunday, Zelenskyy recalled the war's first moments, saying that he and his wife were woken up by missile strikes at 4 a.m. local time. "My children were asleep, but my wife was awake. There were strikes. Missile strikes, we heard them," Zelenskyy said, according to a translation provided by Fridman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And later, by the way, a few days after, after the first days of the war, I spoke with Lukashenko on the phone," Zelenskyy added. Zelenskyy recounted the conversation, in his words, proceeding in this fashion: And he apologized. And he said that: "It was not me. Missiles were launched from my territory, and Putin was the one launching them." These are his words. I have witnesses. "And I apologize," he said. "But believe me. Volodya, this is not me. I am not in charge. I am not in charge," he told me. "These are just missiles. This is Putin. I told him don't do that. This was done without me." I told him that I believed him. I told him, "You are a murderer too, I'm just saying." And he told me, "You must understand, you can't fight the Russians." I told him that we never fought them. I said: "It's war, the missiles came from your land, from Belarus. How did you allow this?" Zelenskyy also said Lukashenko suggested in his apology that Ukraine should strike an oil refinery in Belarus in retaliation. "Hit the refinery, you know how much I care about it," Zelenskyy quoted Lukashenko as saying. Lukashenko's spokesperson denied on Monday that the Belarusian leader apologized to Zelenskyy. "The President of Belarus did not apologize to Zelensky for the simple reason that we have nothing to apologize for," Natalia Eismont, Lukashenko's press secretary, told the pro-Kremlin Russian outlet RBC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eismont confirmed that a phone call between Zelenskyy and Lukashenko took place days after the war began. She added, however, that the Belarusian leader had instead admonished Zelenskyy and blamed the latter's policies for the conflict during the call. Eismont said Lukashenko's youngest son connected the two leaders for the call because he'd saved Zelenskyy's personal contact information on his mobile phone. Belarus has maintained close ties to Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, and Lukashenko, its leader since 1994, has long been a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Lukashenko hosted some 30,000 Russian troops, as well as weapons and armored vehicles, in early 2022. The Russian forces massed on Belarus' border with Ukraine and eventually invaded the Kyiv region from the north. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Belarus, a transit country for Russian energy to European countries, is heavily reliant on trade with Moscow, especially after Western sanctions in 2022 stifled about 70% of Minsk's exports to the European Union. Lukashenko's government has said Russia contributes to more than half of Belarus' trade, while German researchers estimated in the first year of the Ukraine war that the Russian share of Belarusian trade had surpassed 60%. Lukashenko's press service didn't respond to a request for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider. Read the original article on Business Insider President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine and Switzerland will work together to help the people of Syria with food. Source: Zelenskyys evening address Quote: "...we can help stabilise Syria together. I proposed that Switzerland contribute to delivering food to Syria. Ukrainian food and financial participation of Switzerland along with our other partners in this humanitarian program is something that can help the Syrian people to establish a normal life after the war and importantly, after Russia's presence in Syria. Where Russia leaves ruins, we, together with the world, can restore normal life. I am confident that this will also be the case on our land. " Details: Zelenskyy further said that he spoke with the President of Switzerland about jointly organising the first Peace Summit and preparing for a bilateral meeting. Support UP or become our patron! Mark Zuckerberg s Meta has announced that John Elkann, Charlie Songhurst, and Donald Trumps longtime friend Dana White have joined the companys board of directorspart of an apparent bid to cozy up to the president-elect. Dana, John and Charlie will add a depth of expertise and perspective that will help us tackle the massive opportunities ahead with AI, wearables and the future of human connection, Zuckerberg said in a report published by Meta on Tuesday. White added in his own statement that hed never been interested in joining a board of directors until he got the offer from Meta. I am a huge believer that social media and AI are the future, the President and CEO of mixed martial arts organization UFC shared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am very excited to join this incredible team and to learn more about this business from the inside. There is nothing I love more than building brands, and I look forward to helping take Meta to the next level, White continued. CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship Dana White speaks during an election night event for Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump at the Palm Beach Convention Center on November 06, 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida. / Win McNamee/Getty Images Whites friendship with Trump dates back to 2001, when Trump agreed to host UFC fights at his since-bankrupt Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City, at a time when the sport was considered too violent for most venues. The pair fostered a loyal friendship over the years since, with White accompanying Trump during some stops on his 2024 campaign trail and praising him during his election-night party. Nobody deserves this more than him, and nobody deserves this more than his family does, White roared to the crowd. Hes the most resilient, hardworking man Ive ever met in my life. Zuckerberg has been trying to curry favor with the president-elect over the past couple of months, donating $1 million to his inaugural fund in December through Meta, per The Wall Street Journal , and meeting with him at Mar-A-Lago in November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its an important time for the future of American Innovation, a Meta spokesperson said at the time , while confirming their meeting. Mark was grateful for the invitation to join President Trump for dinner and the opportunity to meet with members of his team about the incoming Administration. Meta also experienced a leadership shakeup last week with its head of global policy, former British deputy prime minister Nick Clegg, leaving the company after six years and being replaced by his deputy Joel Kaplan. A prominent conservative, Kaplan served as the deputy chief of staff for policy during former president Geroge W. Bushs administration and recently attended Trumps celebration for his Times person of the year issue at the New York stock exchange in December. Mark Zuckerberg announced Tuesday that Meta will scrap its fact-checking program and move content moderation staff from California to Texas where theres less concern about the bias of our teams. Zuckerberg, who was one of several tech billionaires to bend the knee to Donald Trump following the election, also said Meta would copy one of the main changes Trump ally Elon Musk made after his takeover of Twitter. Were going to get back to our roots and focus on reducing mistakes, simplifying our policies and restoring free expression on our platforms, Zuckerberg said in the video posted on Facebook Tuesday morning. More specifically, were going to get rid of fact-checkers and replace them with Community Notes similar to X, starting in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Facebook founderwhose company recently donated $1 million to Trumps inauguration fund and announced that Trump advocate UFC President Dana White would join its board of directorsalso seemed to suggest that staffers in California could be perceived to be politically biased, unlike those in Texas. Were going to move our trust and safety and content moderation teams out of California, and our U.S.-based content review is going to be based in Texas, Zuckerberg said. As we work to promote free expression, I think that it will help us build trust to do this work in places where there is less concern about the bias of our teams. In a post on Threads, Zuckerberg added that the move from California to Texas would help remove the concern that biased employees are overly censoring content. Zuckerberg even deployed MAGA parlance in his Facebook address as he criticized governments and legacy media for allegedly pushing to censor more and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent elections also feel like a cultural tipping point towards, once again, prioritizing speech, he said in the clip announcing the end of the third-party fact-checking program. Meta launched the program shortly after Trumps 2016 election victory amid intense scrutiny around the spread of inaccurate information on its platform. Mark Zuckerberg with Joel Kaplan, Metas chief global affairs officer. / Samuel Corum / Samuel Corum/Getty Images The outgoing Meta program works with independent, International Fact-Checking Network-certified fact-checkers who identify, review and rate viral information across Metas platforms. Going forward, it will be up to users to flag and add notes to misleading posts. Weve seen this approach work on Xwhere they empower their community to decide when posts are potentially misleading and need more context, and people across a diverse range of perspectives decide what sort of context is helpful for other users to see, Metas new Chief Global Affairs Officer, Joel Kaplan, said in a statement. We think this could be a better way of achieving our original intention of providing people with information about what theyre seeingand one thats less prone to bias. Discussing the changes on Fox & Friends Tuesday morning, Kaplan again cited political bias in explaining why Meta was ditching its independent fact-checkers. It has become clear there is too much political bias in what they choose to fact-check because, basically, they get to fact-check whatever they see on the platform, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also specifically praised Elon Musk. I think Elons played an incredibly important role in moving the debate and getting people refocused on free expression, and thats thats been really constructive and productive, and were just glad that weve got the opportunity now to make these kind of changes and to get back to our roots in free expression, Kaplan said. The recent announcement marks a shift away from previously icy relations between Zuckerberg and the incoming president. In a book published last year, Trump accused the Meta chief of plotting against him during the 2020 election and said Zuckerberg would spend the rest of his life in prison if it happened again. Claim: A photo circulating on social media for years authentically showed a 37-million-year-old fossilized whale skeleton discovered in Egypt. Rating: Rating: True On Jan. 5, 2025, a Reddit user posted (archived) a photo to the r/BeAmazed subreddit that showed what appeared to be a giant vertebral column in a desert. The post included a caption reading, "A Whale skeleton found in the hot dunes of Egypt." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That post, which had amassed around 47,000 upvotes at the time of this writing, was not the photo's first appearance online. Posts identifying the image as a photo of a whale skeleton found in Egypt have popped up for years on social media outlets including X (archived), Reddit (archived), and Facebook (archived). In short, the image is indeed an authentic photo depicting a roughly 37-million-year-old fossilized whale skeleton at Wadi Al-Hitan, a site in Egypt's Western Desert whose Arabic name translates to "Valley of the Whales." Reverse image searches on Google and TinEye revealed the image was taken by Associated Press photographer Thomas Hartwell. He captured the photo during a January 2016 visit to Wadi Al-Hitan (spelled "Wati El Hitan" in the AP caption), according to information provided by AP Newsroom. Located about 90 miles southwest of Cairo, Wadi Al-Hitan is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its abundance of fossils dating to the middle and late Eocene epoch, roughly 38 million to 36 million years ago, when parts of Egypt were still covered by a prehistoric sea. According to a UNESCO World Heritage Datasheet for Wadi Al-Hitan, "over 400 fossil skeletons of archaic whales and other vertebrates" have been found at the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hartwell visited Wadi Al-Hitan for the unveiling of Egypt's Fossils and Climate Change Museum on Jan. 14, 2016. Various media outlets, including Phys.org and the Daily Mail, used the image in their coverage of the museum's opening. Snopes also compared the image to numerous photos past visitors to the museum posted on Google Maps and Tripadvisor, as well on Flickr. The same S-shaped vertebral column from Hartwell's photograph could be seen from different angles in numerous traveler snaps. Some of the photos included a museum label reading: "Intact Skeleton of Basilosaurus whale." (Tripadvisor user Bob W.) Paleontologist Philip D. Gingerich explained in a Geological Society of London article that Basilosaurus isis is one of two types of archaic whale most commonly found at Wadi Al-Hitan (the other is the much smaller Dorudon atrox). Basilosaurus' fossilized skeletons average between 15 and 18 meters in length (roughly 50 to 60 feet), according to a webpage maintained by the University of Michigan's Museum of Paleontology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email to Snopes, Gingerich, who has conducted research at Wadi Al-Hitan, confirmed the bones indeed belong to the Basilosaurus isis species, which lived around 37 million years ago. Because the photo authentically depicted fossilized whale bones that date to the middle or late Eocene epoch and were discovered in Egypt's Wadi Al-Hitan, Snopes rated this claim as true. Sources: AP. https://newsroom.ap.org/editorial-photos-videos/detail?itemid=3888cc78f10c49e897f1c1fd2fe50872&mediatype=photo. Accessed 30 July 2024. "Basilosaurus Isis," U-M LSA Museum of Paleontology. https://lsa.umich.edu/paleontology/resources/beyond-exhibits/basilosaurus-isis.html. Accessed 30 July 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Wadi Al-Hitan 'Whale Valley,'" UNESCO World Heritage Centre, https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1186/. Accessed 30 July 2024. "Dorudon Atrox," U-M LSA Museum of Paleontology. https://lsa.umich.edu/paleontology/resources/beyond-exhibits/dorudon-atrox.html. Accessed 30 July 2024. Evon, Dan. "Snopes Tips: A Guide To Performing Reverse Image Searches." Snopes, 22 Mar. 2022, https://www.snopes.com//articles/400681/how-to-perform-reverse-image-searches/. Gingerich, Philip D. "Wadi Al-Hitan or 'Valley of Whales' an Eocene World Heritage Site in the Western Desert of Egypt." Geological Society, London, Special Publications, vol. 543, no. 1, July 2024, pp. 42130. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1144/SP543-2022-203. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gray, Richard. "Egypt Unveils Rare Whale Fossil Museum to Boost Tourism." Mail Online, 14 Jan. 2016, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3399319/Egypt-spend-32M-upgrading-tourist-resort-security.html. "Wadi Hitan Museum 727C+MQ6, Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate 3060001, Egypt." Wadi Hitan Museum 727C+MQ6, Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate 3060001, Egypt, https://www.google.com/maps/place/Wadi+Hitan+museum/@29.2641711,30.0131289,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x145c059d35b0ea09:0x7f0525cd1d43dcc0!8m2!3d29.2641711!4d30.0218836!16s%2Fg%2F11f27_z5f6?entry=ttu. Accessed 30 July 2024. Youssef, Nour. Egypt Unveils Rare Whale Fossil Museum to Boost Tourism (Update). Phys.org, https://phys.org/news/2016-01-egypt-unveils-rare-whale-fossil.html. Accessed 30 July 2024. United Airlines will roll out free Starlink WiFi on regional aircraft this spring. Its entire fleet of 1,000 Boeing and Airbus planes will eventually get the upgrade too. More than half a dozen carriers worldwide have inked deals for Starlink WiFi. United Airlines is one step closer to bringing free WiFi to its planes. The Chicago-based carrier announced plans in January to test Elon Musk's high-speed Starlink internet on an Embraer 175 regional jet in February. By year-end, United's entire two-cabin regional fleet, meaning its smaller planes with first and economy class, will get the upgrade. Its first mainline aircraft will also take off by the end of 2025, with the entire fleet getting the upgrade at some point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members of United's MileagePlus loyalty program will be able to access Starlink for free, including for browsing and streaming. Members currently pay $8 for internet on domestic and short-haul international flights, while non-members by $10. International WiFi pricing depends on destination and flight length. United's new free internet access will join Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways, both of which already provide complimentary WiFi through other providers like ViaSat and Gogo American Airlines has free ad-sponsored internet on certain narrow-body planes, but it's limited to 20 or 30 minutes. Starlink is growing its list of airline customers Starlink, an arm of SpaceX, provides WiFi via low-orbit satellites. Its reliability is particularly useful in remote areas and on cruise ships, and its popularity has grown on commercial airplanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Viasat, by comparison, has only a few satellites and is slower by comparison. In 2022, semi-private air carrier JSX was the first company to ink a deal for Starlink. The company has since deployed the service on its entire fleet of Embraer jets. Hawaiian Airlines, now merged with Alaska Airlines, has retrofitted its Airbus A330 and A321neo planes with free Starlink and has plans to add its Boeing 787s, too. Alaska has since acquired Hawaiian's Starlink-equipped jets. Starting this year, it plans to fly the widebody Airbus aircraft from Seattle to Japan and South Korea. AirBaltic, Air France, Air New Zealand, Qatar Airways, and Japan's Zipair have also selected Starlink for their fleets. Qatar's Starlink WiFi is free to passengers, even in economy class. Pete Syme/Business Insider Qatar rolled out free Starlink on its first Boeing 777 in October. It plans to install the service on the entire 777 fleet by the end of 2025 and start the upgrades on its Airbus A350s this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Business Insider tested Qatar's new WiFi at 36,000 feet and found a download speed of up to 215 megabits per second, though it dipped over certain areas. The service could easily manage high-speed streaming and video calling with little to no buffering. Read the original article on Business Insider PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing. Taiwan is investigating whether a Chinese vessel intentionally severed an undersea internet cable to the island, raising concerns about potential sabotage. The incident occurred on Friday when local telecommunications provider Chunghwa Telecom reported a disruption to the undersea cable. Taiwan's coast guard dispatched a vessel to the site and discovered a Hong Kong-owned cargo ship called "SHUNXIN 39" about 7 nautical miles from the undersea cable. A preliminary investigation has since determined the vessel was likely responsible for the damage. Although the undersea cable was damaged, Chunghwa Telecom was able to reroute internet communications through backups. The damaged cable belongs to Trans-Pacific Express, which links China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, and the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taiwans coast guard attempted to board Shun Xin 39, but turbulent waves prevented authorities from doing so, causing Shun Xin 39 to resume its journey to the South Korean port of Busan, according to The Wall Street Journal. Still, Taiwan has ordered a full investigation and asked South Korea for assistance. Taiwans coast guard also says the vessel is registered to a Hong Kong company called Jie Yang Trading Limited and that seven crew members on board are Chinese nationals. The ship was been found using two sets of Automatic Identification System equipment, allowing it to broadcast two separate IDs to international maritime systems, The New York Times reports. The incident raises concerns that the Chinese government may have secretly orchestrated the sabotage. In 2023, two Chinese vessels also damaged an undersea cable to an island north of Taiwan, temporarily cutting residents off from the internet. If China invades Taiwan, the country will likely try to sabotage all undersea cables to the island, preventing it from communicating with the rest of the world. In response, the Taiwanese government has been racing to develop a satellite internet system, but without the help of SpaceX, partly due to concerns about Elon Musks ties in China. Instead, Taiwan is considering working with Amazons Project Kuiper on satellite internet access to the island, although the company is still working to launch its first commercial satellites. Daniel Glenn Holtzclaw appears in Yakima County Superior Court Tuesday, May 23, 2023. He is charged with two counts of second-degree assault in connection with a May 20 shooting in Terrace Heights. Some state legislatures are taking blatant actions to override voters' wishes. State lawmakers' behavior in the coming year will tell us a lot about the health of American democracy. Today Clear to partly cloudy. Gusty winds during the evening. Low 49F. Winds W at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. Tonight Clear to partly cloudy. Gusty winds during the evening. Low 49F. Winds W at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. Tomorrow Cloudy. High around 65F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) has opened a community hub for innovation in Budapest, the organisation told MTI. The EIT Community Regional Innovation Scheme (RIS) Hub is part of a European network that extends to nearly 20 countries. EIT said its hubs serve as a one-stop shop for local stakeholders in the countries in which they are established. Their main mission is to ease access to knowledge and innovation support and identify synergies between the EIT Community and local actors. They strengthen local entrepreneurship and build bridges between local and EU innovation networks. EIT was established in 2008, it is a part of Horizon Europe, the EUs Framework Programme for Research and Innovation. Meanwhile, ministry, chamber cooperation aims to make economy more knowledge-rich The cooperation between the Hungarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MKIK) and the Culture and Innovation Ministry aims to make the economy more knowledge-rich, Balazs Hanko, the head of the portfolio, said ahead of a meeting of the Business Innovation Council on Monday. Hanko noted that higher, vocational and continuing education, along with R+D+I, had been renewed in recent years with the goal of making the Hungarian economy more competitive. Now universities work together with local economic players, he added. He said vocational education had been fine-tuned to the needs of the economy and the labour market thanks to cooperation with the MKIK. Elek Nagy, who heads MKIK, said a knowledge-based chamber would help businesses advance to a technology-intensive phase, boosting their competitiveness. He added that the chamber would survey businesses to determine how vocational and continuing education could be improved and innovation strengthened. 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. After more than a year and a half of preparatory work, One Hungary, part of the 4iG group, opened its first "flagship" brand store on Monday in the Westend City Center shopping mall in Budapest, on the site of the former Vodafone brand store. The store opened in the Budapest shopping center is One's first brand store, which will start operating with a completely new design, which will later be extended to the entire network, said Tamas Banyai, CEO of One Hungary, at the opening, adding that the transformation is about much more than a simple " rebranding " or " logo change ." Building on the integrated fixed and mobile networks of the former member companies, One will be able to provide a much more innovative service, while also building on the special expertise accumulated within the group, he said. The third pillar that differentiates the company from its competitors is customer-centric service, a " strong value proposition " with competitive pricing. He noted that in addition to digital platforms, physical meeting points will also play an important role in the future. According to the company's previous announcement, the 4iG group will merge its telecommunications commercial services as of January 1, so the residential and corporate telecommunications services of Vodafone Hungary, DIGI, Antenna Hungaria and Invitech will appear under the " One " brand. "Our goal is to be the primary choice among Hungarian telecommunications service providers, true to the One brand, for both residential and business subscribers", said the company manager. Tamas Banyai declared that the integration of the services of DIGI, Invitech and Antenna Hungaria into one hand is a historic moment in the Hungarian telecommunications market. With the merger of the former Vodafone and DIGI stores, One Hungary is present in 98 settlements across the country with 135 stores. The stores, which will change their brand name by the end of January and will be gradually renewed throughout the year, represent a completely new concept and quality not only in their image but also in customer service, he added. The company's statement emphasizes that One's mobile tariffs have not changed as of January 1. Customers will find some packages under different names, but the content and pricing of the packages are the same as those of the previous Vodafone and DIGI tariff packages. The company now offers tiered discounts to customers who use multiple services, and has introduced new mobile subscriptions with unlimited domestic data and calls for both residential and small business customers, and is also offering new solutions to prepaid customers. Tamas Banyai highlighted that One is the only telecommunications service provider in Hungary that provides the full range of RTL+ Premium in its package offers at no extra charge, so customers can access the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League matches, as well as RTL's exclusive self-produced content, films and series, at no extra cost. In response to a question, he said that they are currently working on allowing RTL+ subscribers to access premium content with their current password as part of the One subscription. Richard Csaki, Deputy CEO of One Hungary for Commercial and Sales, highlighted that the stores were designed around a completely new concept, which from the very first moment " serves the customer experience, from providing fast and efficient professional assistance to establishing a direct connection ." The company's new slogan, " Every moment counts ," also symbolizes this, he added. The interior design was carried out in collaboration with international experts from London-based KVB Design, Room Design Studio, and the 4iG team. In response to a question, Tamas Banyai said that the goals set out in the strategic agreement with the government will be maintained. Currently, 2 million households are covered by broadband internet and in the future, hybrid and purely optical network developments will continue, but they will also " speed up " the development of the 5G mobile network, which provides gigabit download speeds. In the past two years since 4iG acquired ownership in Vodafone, three times as many base stations have been built as in the previous two years, he added. Vodafone's consolidated revenue decreased to HUF 233.883 billion in 2023 from HUF 287.747 billion in the previous year, and the after-tax profit amounted to HUF 1.384 billion after HUF 50.967 billion in 2022. 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. Indian cinema is gearing up for a groundbreaking release with Kingston, the countrys first-ever sea-horror action-adventure thriller. Set to be a grand pan-India trilogy, the film promises to offer an unprecedented cinematic experience with stunning visuals and an immersive narrative that will captivate audiences worldwide. The first look of this ambitious project, produced, fronted, and scored by the multi-talented GV Prakash Kumar, was recently unveiled, sparking excitement across the nation. Kingston is slated for a theatrical release on March 7, 2025, and will be available in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. A teaser for the highly anticipated film is set to drop on January 9, 2025, offering a glimpse into the thrilling world the movie promises to create. GV Prakash took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the first look poster of Kingston, writing, "Elated to bring you the first look poster of #Kingston.. A thrilling sea fantasy adventure on the way for you all can't wait for you to see it.." Blending chilling horror with intense action sequences set against the mysterious depths of the ocean, Kingston is set to be an edge-of-the-seat spectacle. Directed by Kamal Kumar Prakash, the film features talented actress Divya Bharathi and is produced by Zee Studios in collaboration with GV Prakashs Parallel Pictures Universe. This epic three-part saga is poised to redefine genre cinema in India. With its fusion of mythology, mystery, and high-stakes action, Kingston is expected to be a landmark film that appeals to both mass and class audiences alike, solidifying its place as a major project in Indian cinema. New Delhi: From 10 January 2025, citizens may share their valuable suggestions and ideas for the Union Budget 2025-26 on the MyGov platform. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in this annual initiative, aimed at making the Budget-making process more inclusive with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, said a Ministry of Finance release. The Ministry of Finance and MyGov eagerly look forward to receiving innovative and constructive suggestions from citizens across the country. To submit the suggestions, citizens can visit the MyGov platform (www.mygov.in) and contribute towards building a Viksit Bharat, it added. The Pre-Budget consultations chaired by Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman for the forthcoming Union Budget 2025-26 concluded in New Delhi on January 6. The consultations were held over a month-long period and started on 6th December 2024. In the course of the in-person consultations, more than 100 invitees across 09 stakeholder groups, including experts and representatives from farmer associations & agriculture economists; trade unions; education & health sector; MSME; trade & services; industry; economists; financial sector & capital markets; as well as, infrastructure, energy and urban sector, participated in the meetings. Union Minister for State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary; Finance Secretary and Secretary DIPAM, Shri Tuhin Kanta Pandey; Secretary, D/o Economic Affairs, Ajay Seth; Secretary, D/o Financial Services, M. Nagaraju; Secretary: Secretaries of Ministries concerned, Chief Economic Adviser, Dr. V. Anantha Nageswaran, and senior officers from the Ministry of Finance and Ministries concerned were also present during relevant meetings. In the course of the consultations, Union Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman expressed gratitude to the participants for sharing valuable suggestions and assured experts and representatives that their suggestions would be carefully examined and considered while preparing the Union Budget 2025-26. New Delhi: Candidates can qualify for faculty positions at higher institutions by clearing the UGC-NET in a subject of their choice, even if their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are in different disciplines, as per the UGC's new draft guidelines. The guidelines for the appointment of faculty in higher institutions were released by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday, and also changes the selection process for vice-chancellors, such as expanding eligibility criteria to include professionals from academia, research institutions, public policy, public administration, and industry. As per the guidelines, the subject of the Ph.D. degree precedes the disciplines studied in undergraduate and postgraduate degrees for faculty selections. Dharmendra Pradhan, while addressing the audiences said that these draft reforms and guidelines will infuse innovation, inclusivity, flexibility and dynamism in every aspect of higher education, empower teachers and academic staff, strengthen academic standards and pave the way for achieving educational excellence. The Minister mentioned that the Draft Regulations, 2025, have been placed in the public domain for feedback, suggestions, and consultations. He expressed confidence that the UGC will soon publish the Draft Regulations, 2025, in their final form, driving transformations in the education system and propelling the country towards Viksit Bharat 2047 through quality education and research. In the commission meeting held on December 23 last year, UGC approved Draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations. "This is an important flexibility to remove rigid subject boundaries and allow faculty applicants to transition across disciplines, creating a more multi-disciplinary eco-system within University campuses as envisaged in NEP 2020," UGC Chairman M. Jagadesh Kumar told ANI. The 2025 guidelines also mark the discontinuation of the Academic Performance Indicator (API) system from the 2018 regulations, replacing it with a qualitative approach to candidate evaluation. Selection committees will now assess broader academic contributions, such as innovative teaching methodologies, sustainability practices, entrepreneurial achievements, and promoting Indian languages and knowledge systems, as per the guidelines assessed by ANI. The Academic Performance Indicator (API) system in the 2018 regulations heavily relied on quantitative metrics, reducing academic performance to numerical scores, the UGC chairperson said. "In the previous regulations, candidates were often judged primarily on numerical criteria, such as journal or conference publication counts," Jagadesh said. In the draft guidelines, specialised recruitment pathways have been introduced for fields like Yoga, Music, Performing Arts, and Sports, ensuring that professionals with outstanding skills or achievements can join academia Moreover, revamped criteria for vice-chancellor selection aim to strengthen governance by including professionals from academia, public policy, administration, and industry. "These regulations also provide clear guidelines on the composition of the VC's search-cum-selection committee, tenure, age limits, eligibility for reappointment, and who can form the search-cum-selection committee," the UGC chairperson said. The new regulations will apply to Central, State, Private and Deemed Universities. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has decided to set up a memorial for former president Pranab Mukherjee at the 'Rashtriya Smriti' area complex. Mukherjee died on August 31, 2020. On Tuesday, Sharmistha Mukherjee, daughter of the former president, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and thanked him for honouring her father. "The Competent Authority has approved the earmarking of a designated site within the 'Rashtriya Smriti' complex (a part of the Rajghat precinct) for erecting a Samadhi of Late Shri Pranab Mukherjee, former President of India," the government said in a letter to Sharmistha Mukherjee informing her of the decision. After receiving the letter, Mukherjee sought an appointment with the prime minister to thank him for the honour. Speaking to news agency PTI, Mukherjee said that she was happy that the government had recognized the contribution of her late father and former president towards the nation. "Called on Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi ji to express thanks and gratitude from core of my heart for his government's decision to create a memorial for baba. It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it. "Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM," Sharmistha Mukherjee said in a post on X while sharing her pictures of the meeting with the prime minister. "Baba used to say that State honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour babas' memory. "It doesn't affect baba where he is now -- beyond applaud or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy," she also said, while sharing the letter sent by the government. Pranab Mukherjee's memorial comes in the wake of demands by the Congress for having a memorial for former prime minister Manmohan Singh, who died at AIIMS at the age of 92 on December 26. Sources told PTI that the government has already agreed to set up a memorial for Singh, and a site is being finalized at the same Rashtriya Smriti area in consultation with his family. New Delhi: Police have arrested three foreign nationals from south Delhi for allegedly duping a man of Rs 4.2 lakh, officials said on Tuesday. The accused were identified as Uche Stephen (35), a native of Nigeria and two women Rhoda Genevieve Akum (25), a native of South Africa and Ruby (35) from Nepal. The matter came to light when a man filed a complaint stating that his father had been duped of Rs 4.2 lakh. The victim was lured by a woman through social media, who introduced herself as Rose William from London. "Over weeks of chatting, she claimed she would visit India for business and shared fake flight details. On the supposed day of her arrival, the victim received calls from people posing as airport staff and customs officials," a senior police officer said. The fake customs officials claimed that Rose was detained at the Mumbai Airport for carrying excess foreign currency and demanded Rs 68,000 for her release, the officer said. "The fraudsters escalated the scam by introducing another impersonator posing as an RBI official, pressuring the victim to pay more. Under repeated coercion, the victim transferred Rs. 4.2 lakh to various accounts," the officer added. Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered and an investigation was launched. The police team traced the money trail and identified the culprits. Following raids in south Delhi, police arrested the three foreign nationals, he said. The team also busted a fake call and recovered 15 mobile phones, 12 SIM cards and a laptop, the officer said. Further investigation is underway, he added. Delhi Election 2025 Dates: The Election Commission of India on Tuesday announced the Dates for Delhi Assembly elections 2025 for its 70 assembly seats. The current Assembly's term concludes on February 15, 2025, necessitating the election of new members before that date. The major political parties including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress are preparing for the electoral contest. The parties have made several promises including financial aid for women, pension schemes and others. The polls for 70 assembly seats are scheduled to be held in a single phase on February 5 and the result will be announced on February 8. Delhi Assembly Election Full Schedule 2025 Nomination Filing Start Date: 10.01.25 Nomination Filing End Date: 17.01.25 Scrutiny of nomination: 18.01.25 Withdrawal of nomination: 20.01.25 Voting Date: 5.02.25 Result Counting Date: 8.02.25 The Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi released the final electoral roll on Monday which showed that the National Capital has 1,55,24,858 voters including 83,49,645 male and 71,73,952 female besides 1,261 third-gender. This shows an increase of 1.09% over the electors in draft elector roll published on 29.10.2024. According to the data, there are 2,08,302 first-time voters for the assembly polls and 79,436 PwD voters. While Delhi has a total of 70 assembly seats, Vikaspuri is the constituency with the largest electorate as it has 4,62,184 voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to announce the schedule for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections on January 7, 2025, at 2 pm. The term of the current 70-member Delhi Assembly is set to end on February 23. Possible Dates for Polling and Results The Delhi Assembly elections are expected to take place in the second week of February, with the results likely to be declared on February 17, 2025. The timing of the elections will also be crucial as it could be the final poll under the leadership of Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, who is scheduled to retire on February 18. In the previous election cycle of 2020, the poll dates were announced on January 6, followed by voting on February 8 and counting on February 11. This year, the timeline for the polls and results is expected to be similar, though slight variations might occur depending on the Election Commissions announcement. Political Dynamics: AAP vs BJP vs Congress The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, is striving for a third consecutive term in power. Kejriwals leadership is central to the partys election campaign, despite the fact that he stepped down temporarily following a corruption case. He has promised to return to the position of Chief Minister once the "people's court" has spoken. Along with Kejriwal, other AAP leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and MP Sanjay Singh, are actively involved in the campaign. The BJP, on the other hand, is determined to challenge AAP's hold over Delhi. The opposition party has been vocal in accusing AAP of corruption and poor governance. Allegations against Kejriwal include large-scale corruption related to the renovation of the Chief Ministers residence. The BJP hopes to capitalize on these accusations and turn the tide in their favor. Meanwhile, the Congress party is also making a push for votes. While they are contesting independently, they are targeting both the BJP and AAP. The Congresss strategy is to position itself as a viable alternative, leveraging dissatisfaction with both of the major parties. NEW DELHI: Gold worth Rs 29 lakh, concealed as metal buttons of apparel, has been seized from the possession of an Indian male passenger at the international airport here, the customs department said on Tuesday. The accused was intercepted after his arrival from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Monday. "Through spot profiling techniques, customs officers flagged the passenger at the Green Channel exit. Upon X-ray scanning of the baggage, suspicious images were noticed. "While the passenger cleared the DFMD (door frame metal detector) without triggering any alarms, a detailed manual inspection of the baggage revealed 201 silver-coated rings appearing to be made of gold, ingeniously concealed as metal buttons of apparel," the customs department said in a post on X. The concealed metal rings, confirmed to be 24 carat gold, weighed a total of 379 grams valued about Rs 29 lakh, it said. Gold Buttons in Ladies Dresses - Smuggling Attempt Foiled at IGI Airport! Customs officers at IGI Airport, New Delhi intercepted an Indian national male passenger attempting to smuggle concealed gold on 6th January 2025. Flight Details: Traveling from Jeddah to New pic.twitter.com/qlVjM7Ocrd Delhi Customs (Airport & General) (@AirportGenCus) January 7, 2025 In another case, a male passenger was intercepted after his arrival from Jeddah. "The passenger underwent screening through a DFMD, which did not detect any metallic items on the person (no beep was heard). However, during an X-ray examination of the baggage, suspicious images were noticed," the customs said in another post. Upon detailed manual examination of the passenger's baggage, it was found that eight cylindrical pieces of yellow metal, suspected to be gold, were concealed inside an electric iron, it said. The total weight of the recovered metal was 600 grams valued at Rs 46.80 lakh approximately, the customs said. Ranchi: The Jharkhand Health Department has issued an alert following the detection of Human Metapneumo Virus (HMPV) cases in four states and Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari said that the state government is closely monitoring the situation and has directed officials to assess potential scenarios and remain prepared. "We have not yet received any guidelines from the central government. However, once issued, we will take necessary actions promptly," he added. Meanwhile, state Health Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh has instructed civil surgeons, medical colleges, and district health officials to stay vigilant. The department has also issued an advisory based on the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) guidelines. As a precaution, hospitals across the state have increased bed capacity and ensured adequate oxygen supply systems. Officials emphasised that the virus is not new and typically emerges during winter, as they urged the public not to panic. The advisory recommends wearing masks in crowded areas, frequent hand sanitisation, and avoiding large gatherings. "There is no need to panic," it said. Dr Manoj Kumar, Head of Microbiology at RIMS Medical College, Ranchi, reviewed the preparations and noted that HMPV testing is not currently available in the state. "However, test kits have been ordered, and a request has been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, for supply," he said. He assured that while the virus is not fatal, vigilance is crucial. Preparations are also underway to initiate HMPV testing at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College and Hospital in Jamshedpur. Dr Pooja Sahay, a microbiologist at RIMS, explained that HMPV symptoms resemble those of Covid-19, and most patients recover within five to six days. World Health Organisation's former Chief Scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan has said there is nothing to worry about the HMPV. "Its a known virus that causes respiratory infections, mostly mild," Swaminathan said in a post on X. "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. 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. Mumbai: Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif and Health Minister Prakash Abitkar on Tuesday said that there is no reason to be alarmed at this stage about the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Maharashtra. Addressing a press conference, the Ministers claimed that the two schoolgirls from Nagpur, who tested positive for HMPV, are stable. The conference was held after a cabinet meeting during which Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the government's preparedness for the HPMV. Minister Mushrif said that the HMPV is not new as it has been prevalent since 2001. "It is a minor illness and its symptoms include coughing and sneezing. There is no need to panic," he said. Minister Mushrif added that he along with the Medical Education Secretary and Medical Education Commissioner virtually reviewed the state's preparedness to contain HMPV.. Mushrif said the HMPV 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," he added. According to the minister, the state government successfully handled the coronavirus pandemic and is well-equipped to tackle the situation arising out of HMPV cases. Minister Abitkar said that minors and old people face a major threat from HMPV, not everyone. "The government has taken the necessary precautions and adopted measures to tackle the situation. The Central government has not yet issued an advisory to states about the SOPs to be followed. After the Centre's communication, the state government will put in place the SOP," he added. State Public Health Department Secretary Nipun Vinayak said that the Centre discussed the HMPV with states on January 6. After the Centre issues SPOs and other precautions to combat the virus, the state government will later announce it in the state. "Of the 8,000 samples sent to the Pune NIV lab during the year, 172 were detected with HMPV. Citizens should take precautions to protect themselves from respiratory infections," he added. Meanwhile, the Centre on Tuesday asked the states to review surveillance on respiratory illnesses in the country. As fears regarding the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) increased in India, with five confirmed cases, Health Minister JP Nadda sought to calm the public on Monday. In a video message, he assured the nation that HMPV is not a new virus and urged people not to panic. Nadda emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation, with appropriate measures in place to safeguard public health. HMPV: Not a New Threat The Health Minister explained that HMPV is not a recent discovery, having been first identified in 2001. According to Nadda, the virus has been circulating worldwide for many years. Health experts have reassured that HMPV, which spreads through the air via respiratory droplets, is not a novel virus. It can affect people of all age groups but is more prevalent during the winter and early spring months, when respiratory viruses tend to spread more easily. Indias Response to Rising Cases India confirmed five cases of HMPV on Monday. These cases include two from Bengaluru, Karnataka, one from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and one each from Chennai and Salem in Tamil Nadu. The virus is typically associated with mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to more severe issues for infants or individuals with weakened immune systems. Although HMPV accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, it generally causes mild illness in most adults due to pre-existing immunity. Ongoing Monitoring and Surveillance Minister Nadda also reassured the public that health authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation. He mentioned that the Ministry of Health, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are monitoring reports of HMPV cases not only in India but also in neighboring countries, including China. The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged the situation, and its report will be shared soon. In addition to the efforts to track HMPV cases, Nadda referenced the monitoring of other respiratory viruses across the country. According to the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program, there has been no significant surge in common respiratory pathogens. The government has also held a joint monitoring meeting, chaired by the Director General for Health Services, to review the current situation and ensure readiness for any emerging health challenges. Punjab School Holiday: Amid a severe cold wave sweeping across North India, the Punjab government has extended winter holidays for all government, aided, recognised, and private schools in the state. Initially scheduled to reopen on January 1, 2025, after the first holiday break from December 24 to 31, schools will now remain closed until January 7. Classes are expected to resume on January 8, although further extensions may be announced depending on the weather. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains shared the decision on social media, stating, As per the directions of the Honble Chief Minister, due to cold weather, holidays are being observed in all government, aided, recognised, and private schools of Punjab till January 7. All schools will open on January 8. The move prioritises the safety and well-being of students amid plummeting temperatures across the region. The cold wave has also prompted similar measures in other parts of North India. Chandigarh has extended school holidays until January 11, while in Haryana, students up to Class 8 will stay home until January 14. Although schools in Punjab are set to reopen on January 8, the government has indicated that additional extensions could be considered if the cold wave persists. Parents and students are advised to monitor official announcements for any updates to the schedule. Nine labourers were trapped on Monday inside the Assam Coal Quarry in the 3 Kilo area of Umrangso after a sudden water surge flooded the site. Quarry employees reported that approximately 15 workers were inside the mine, although authorities have not confirmed the exact number. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma listed the names of the trapped labourers which includes Ganga Bahadur Shreth, Hussain Ali, Jakir Hussain, Sarpa Barman, Mustafa Seikh, Khushi Mohan Rai, Sanjit Sarkar, Lijan Magar and Sarat Goyary. Rescue operations were swiftly initiated, with teams of local authorities, emergency responders, and mining experts working to locate and rescue the trapped workers. Officials confirmed that NDRF and SDRF personnel are also on-site to assist in the rescue efforts. Rescue operations were swiftly started with teams consisting of local authorities, emergency responders and mining experts working to locate and rescue the trapped workers, the officials said. NDRF and SDRF personnel are also at the site to rescue the miners trapped inside the coal mine. Assam Chief Minister Sarma announced on Tuesday that navy divers have been called in to assist local authorities in rescuing the labourers trapped in a coal mine. Army personnel have been engaged to rescue the nine labourers and a relief task force comprising specialists such as divers and sappers, equipped with essential tools, reached the site in Umrangso, a defence spokesperson said. ''Engineers task force with equipment, divers and medical teams from the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles have joined the rescue efforts," CM said. What is 'rat-hole' mining? The term rat hole refers to the narrow pits dug into the ground, barely wide enough for a single person to descend and extract coal. This method, commonly used to extract coal from narrow horizontal seams, is prevalent in Meghalaya. The workers first drilled the pits and then they descended using ropes or bamboo ladders to reach the coal seams. (With PTI inputs) The Supreme Court of India granted interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram, who is currently serving a life sentence for multiple rape convictions. The 83-year-old had sought the bail on medical grounds, citing serious health issues. However, despite the interim relief, Asaram will remain in jail as he has yet to secure bail in another rape case. Medical Bail Granted Until March 31 Asaram, whose legal name is Asumal Sirumalani Harpalani, was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court on January 7, 2025, until March 31, 2025. The decision was made by Justices MM Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal, who considered the medical ailments presented by Asarams lawyers. Despite the bail, the court imposed strict conditions on his release. Asaram will not be allowed to meet with his followers and is to be escorted by police officers to the hospital for treatment. Previous Convictions and Parole History Asaram was convicted in 2018 for the rape of a 16-year-old girl at his ashram in Jodhpur in 2013. His sentence included life imprisonment. In addition, he was convicted in 2023 for raping a woman at his ashram near Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Despite these serious convictions, Asarams legal team has been pursuing various forms of relief, including parole and bail. Asaram had recently returned to jail on January 1, 2025, after a 17-day parole. He had been granted parole, which included 15 days for personal reasons and an additional two days for travel. However, just a week after returning to prison, the Supreme Court granted him interim bail based on his medical condition. Health Concerns and Medical Treatment Asarams lawyers have consistently cited his deteriorating health as a reason for requesting bail. He has previously received treatment for heart-related issues, including care at AIIMS Jodhpur and in Pune. The Supreme Court's order to grant bail until March 31, 2025, offers Asaram temporary relief, but the condition of his health remains a key factor in his ongoing legal battles. Legal Journey and Rape Cases Asarams legal troubles have spanned years, with multiple rape cases and appeals. His conviction for the rape of a 16-year-old girl in Jodhpur in 2013 led to a life sentence in 2018. In 2023, he was convicted for another rape case involving a woman at one of his ashrams in Gujarat. Despite his legal teams efforts to seek relief, both the Gujarat High Court and the Supreme Court have been firm in their stance, stating that his bail pleas would only be considered on the grounds of medical emergencies. Future Legal Proceedings The case remains ongoing as Asaram's legal team continues to fight for a suspension of his sentence. The Supreme Court had previously asked the Gujarat government to respond to a petition filed by Asaram requesting the suspension of his life sentence. However, the court has emphasized that it will only consider such pleas if there are valid medical grounds. The Gujarat High Court had already rejected his plea for suspension in August 2023, noting that there was insufficient cause to justify relief. Maharashtra Politics: Following the announcement of Maharashtra poll results last year in November, political rumblings began in the state, giving air to the speculations of big political switches in the near future. Fadnavis, sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra on December 5, had extended invitations to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) chief Uddhav Thackeray to attend the ceremony. However, both leaders were reportedly absent. However, the alignment of stars appears to be changing fast in Maharashtra politics. Last month, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, along with his son, MLAs Aditya Thackeray, Anil Parab, and Varun Sardesai, met CM Devendra Fadnavis at the Vidhan Bhavan office in Nagpur. This fuelled speculation about whether Uddhav Thackeray has changed his mind. There are also calls for the reunion of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions of Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar. Leaders and family members from both factions are pushing for a reunion between the two leaders once again. NCP leader Praful Patel, who is likely to get a berth in the Modi cabinet, termed Sharad Pawar their 'deity.' Patel said that Sharad Pawar is like a 'deity' for NCP leaders and commands a high degree of respect. "If the Pawar family comes together, it will make us extremely happy," he said. The biggest message has come from Asha-tai Pawar, Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's mother, who said she prayed to Lord Vitthal that her son and his estranged uncle Sharad Pawar should come together again. Amid all these developments in Maharashtra, media reports claimed that there is a possibility of a major political switch in the state. At least 8 MPs from the NCP Sharad Pawar faction are likely to join Ajit Pawar, reported Republic Media. Reports also suggested that these MPs are in close contact with the Ajit Pawar faction and are more likely to announce the shift. The NCP-SP had won 8 Lok Sabha seats, including Supriya Sule's Baramati, in the 2024 polls. If Sharad Pawar agrees to leave Congress and join the BJP, then Supriya Sule may be a part of the NDA cabinet at the Centre. This political shift, if it becomes a reality, it will be a huge boost for Ajit Pawar's faction, which has already been recognized as the 'real' NCP by the Election Commission. According to a report by Republic, sources claimed that Sharad Pawar is open to joining hands with the ruling Mahayuti alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). If the rumours turn out to be true, it will be a massive setback for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray), and NCP (SP) in Maharashtra and the opposition bloc INDIA led by the Congress in the Lok Sabha. Supriya Sule Praises Fadnavis The latest developments surfaced days after Baramati MP and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Supriya Sule recently praised CM Devendra Fadnavis, who assumed office a month ago. "Only one person who is working very hard is Devendra Fadnavis; no one else is visible. Devendra ji is focused and working in mission mode, which is a good thing. We wish him all the best," Sule said while speaking to reporters. If this switch happens, the NDA government at the Centre will cross the 300-mark for the third time in a row, setting a new political record. This will be not only a boost for the Modi government but also for the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra. Delhi election dates have been announced and there is just one month left for the political parties to campaign and improve their winning chances. The Election Commission of India on Tuesday said that the voting for the 70 Delhi assembly seats will take place on February 5 and the counting of votes will take place on February 8. With this, the Model Code came into effect. With the poll dates out, all eyes are on the BJP whether the saffron party will bring Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Delhi as a star campaigner. In today's DNA, Zee News analysed the impact of Yogi's campaigning in other states and the entry of a new poster in Delhi. Watch Full DNA Episode Here Yogi Adityanath's 'Batenge to katenge' slogan has entered Delhi with posters being put up on a wall. While the BJP and the AAP have released their poll songs to woo the voters, both parties have expressed willingness to dole out more freebies to woo the voters. UP CM Yogi Adityanath commands a significant hold over voters who belong to Uttar Pradesh. His is also popular among Delhi voters and the BJP may look to capitalize on this as well apart from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who sounded the poll bugle in the national capital last week. Hyderabad: Actor Allu Arjun visited KIMS Hospital in Begumpet, Hyderabad, to meet Sri Teja, the child who was seriously injured during the tragic incident at Sandhya Theatre. The incident, which occurred on December 4, 2024, during the premiere of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule', resulted in the death of a woman named Revathi and left her child, Sri Teja, in critical condition. The visit comes amidst Allu Arjun's ongoing legal proceedings related to the chaos that unfolded when the actor waved to the crowd from the sunroof of his car, during the 'Pushpa 2' premiere. Allu Arjun expressed his concern for the injured child, who had been on a ventilator for several weeks following the incident. As of December 24, 2024, there had been positive signs of recovery, with Sri Teja reportedly responding for the first time after being unresponsive for 20 days. His father, Bhaskar, expressed gratitude for Allu Arjun's support, saying, "The child responded after 20 days. He is responding today. Allu Arjun and the Telangana government are supporting us." In addition to his visit to Sri Teja, Allu Arjun has been fulfilling his legal obligations. On January 5, 2025, Allu Arjun complied with the conditions set by the Nampally Court by visiting the Chikkadpally Police Station as part of the bail process. The actor had been granted regular bail following the incident, but the court imposed certain conditions, including attendance at the police station. This visit was a necessary part of the ongoing legal process stemming from the tragic events at Sandhya Theatre. Earlier, on January 4, Allu Arjun appeared before the Metropolitan Criminal Court at Nampally, where he submitted the required sureties and executed a bond of Rs 50,000. His arrival was met with heightened security, as police personnel escorted him through a crowd of media representatives. After the court's decision, his lawyer, Ashok Reddy, addressed the press and confirmed that the actor had been granted bail on the grounds that the incident was not deemed "culpable homicide not amounting to murder." Reddy further clarified, "The conditions have been imposed that he (Allu Arjun) has to attend the police station. Bail has been granted... The court was convinced that this was not a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Therefore, the court granted bail." He also mentioned that a quash petition is pending before the Telangana High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21, 2025. The tragic sequence of events began when a large crowd gathered outside Sandhya Theatre to catch a glimpse of the star during the 'Pushpa 2' premiere. As Allu Arjun waved to fans from his car's sunroof, the situation quickly spiralled out of control. During the chaos, Revathi tragically lost her life, and her son, Sri Teja, sustained serious injuries, leading to his hospitalization. To support the victim, Allu Arjun also extended financial assistance to the bereaved family. His father, film producer Allu Aravind, announced a contribution of Rs 2 crore to help the family of Revathi, who tragically passed away in the incident. Mumbai: A picture of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, his wife Gauri Khan, and their son Aryan Khan in Mecca has gone viral on social media, sparking rumours that Gauri has converted to Islam after 33 years of marriage. The image shows Gauri wearing a hijab, prompting speculation about her religious beliefs. However, the truth is far from these claimsthe picture is morphed and AI-generated, as confirmed by experts. The viral image of the Khan family in Mecca is not real. It was created using advanced tools like AI technology, which are increasingly used to fabricate convincing but false visuals. Social media platforms have been flooded with discussions, with many users pointing out inconsistencies in the image and calling it fake. This incident highlights the growing dangers of AI misuse in spreading misinformation. Gauri Khans Take on Religion Gauri Khan has always been candid about her interfaith marriage to Shah Rukh Khan. On the popular talk show Koffee with Karan in 2005, she shared her perspective, saying, I respect Shah Rukhs religion, but that doesnt mean I would convert and become a Muslim. I dont believe in that. Everyone is an individual and follows their religion. Shah Rukh would never disrespect my religion, and I wouldnt disrespect his. This mutual respect for each others beliefs has been a foundation of their enduring marriage, which began in 1991 after years of dating. The couple, who have three childrenAryan, Suhana, and AbRam Khancelebrate both Hindu and Muslim traditions in their household. The viral photo underscores a critical issue in the digital age: the misuse of AI technology to create fake content. Such fabricated images can mislead the public and tarnish reputations, making it essential for individuals to verify information before believing or sharing it. The claim that Gauri Khan has converted to Islam is completely false. The viral image is a product of digital manipulation, not reality. Shah Rukh and Gauri Khan continue to inspire fans with their interfaith relationship built on love, respect, and mutual understanding. Mumbai: Malaika Arora, known for her glamorous persona and impeccable dancing skills, is once again in the spotlight, but this time for all the wrong reasons. The actress and judge of Indias Best Dancer vs. Super Dancer Champions Ka Tashan recently faced backlash for her bold dance performance on the show. In an episode few weeks ago, Malaika donned a stunning red-hot dress and performed an energetic dance routine. Her sensuous moves not only left co-judge Geeta Kapur stunned but also prompted choreographers, including Remo DSouza, to join her on stage. The performance, described as captivating by some, quickly became a topic of heated debate online. While her co-judges and live audience appeared to be in awe, the online community had a different take. Many social media users criticized Malaika for her erotic dance moves, arguing that they were inappropriate for a family-oriented reality show. A flood of comments poured in, with one user saying, Its a family show, not a Bollywood item number. Another added, Malaika is crossing the line with these bold moves. This isnt the place for it. Some even went as far as questioning her role on the show, stating that her performances are overshadowing the contestants, who are supposed to be the main attraction. While the criticism was loud, Malaikas loyal fanbase also came to her defence, praising her for being unapologetically herself. Malaika is the life of the show! Her dance is classy, and those criticizing her are just jealous, wrote one supporter. Malaika has often been in the news for her bold fashion choices and dance performances, both of which have made her a favourite among fans and a target for critics. As one of the most stylish and confident personalities in the industry, she has consistently pushed boundaries, both on and off-screen. Mumbai: Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, is a viral star, he stirred controversy recently when he called Prajakta Koli a bad actor in one of his Snapchat stories. While the remark appeared to be directed at her performance, Orry later clarified that he was referring to a specific reel and not her acting in general. However, the damage was already done, as the comment went viral and sparked a heated debate online. Prajakta, who stars in Netflixs popular series Mismatched, reprised her role in the recently released third season. While the show has a dedicated fan base, many viewers shared mixed opinions about her performance this time around. Some Reddit threads echoed Orrys sentiments, with users critiquing her acting as flat and unconvincing. One Redditor commented, Influencers like Prajakta need to stick to what they are good at. Acting isnt her strong suit. Another added, Her charm as a YouTuber doesnt translate well on screen. She lacks depth. However, loyal fans of the actress came to her defense, with one writing, Prajakta has done a commendable job. Everyone has room for improvement, and shes still learning. Orrys comments have reignited the age-old debate about influencers transitioning to acting. Critics argue that social media personalities often get acting opportunities due to their online popularity rather than their skills. This sentiment was apparent in many online discussions, where viewers questioned the increasing trend of influencers taking center stage in mainstream projects. Orry took to social media to clarify his stance that it was limited to Prajakta's reel character in the show, branding it self-righteous and holier-than-thou. Prajakta Koli, who started as a YouTuber with her channel MostlySane, has successfully transitioned into acting, with roles in Jugjugg Jeeyo and Mismatched. While her journey from influencer to actor has inspired many, it has also subjected her to increased scrutiny. As Mismatched 3 continues to trend, Prajakta remains in the spotlight, navigating both praise and criticism. Whether she addresses Orrys comments or chooses to focus on her craft remains to be seen. Mumbai: In the wake of the firing incident that occurred outside his Mumbai residence over eight months ago, actor Salman Khan has opted for a significant security upgrade. The actor has installed bulletproof glass on the balcony of his Galaxy Apartments residence in Bandra, where he is often seen waving to his fans. #WATCH | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Bulletproof glass installed in the balcony of actor Salman Khan's residence - Galaxy Apartment pic.twitter.com/x6BAvPOGyW ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 This move follows the events of April 14, 2024, when a shooting incident outside Khan's home brought concerns about his safety to the forefront. Authorities later arrested individuals with links to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, leading to the invocation of the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA) against those involved. The actor's decision to fortify his home comes after another security breach that occurred on December 5, 2024. On that day, a man managed to enter the set of one of Salman Khan's ongoing film projects in Mumbai. The incident took place at a shooting location in Dadar West, where the man attempted to watch the shooting of the film. After being confronted by security personnel, the situation escalated into a physical altercation, prompting the man to invoke the name of Lawrence Bishnoi. This led the guards to call the police, who then detained the individual, a local resident of Mumbai. On the professional front, Salman Khan's much-anticipated action-packed film, 'Sikandar', is slated for an Eid 2025 release. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by A.R. Murugadoss, 'Sikandar' also features actress Rashmika Mandanna. Apart from 'Sikandar', Salman is also set to appear in 'Kick 2' in the coming months. New Delhi: The excitement for Sonu Sood's upcoming action thriller Fateh has reached unparalleled heights, as fans in Sholapur have created an incredible 390-foot cutout poster of the actor. This massive tribute, carried by 500 students in a grand procession, sets a new world record and showcases the immense love and admiration for the actor ahead of the films highly anticipated release. The enthusiasm surrounding Fateh is not confined to just one region. From the northern heartlands to the southern states, the craze for the film is rapidly spreading. Sonu Soods visits to Amritsar, Shirdi, Lucknow, and Delhi have drawn massive crowds, with fans showcasing their devotion and support in unforgettable ways. In addition to the record-breaking 390-foot cutout, fans have also created custom Fateh-themed t-shirts, statues, and even decorated autos with the film's branding. Social media is flooded with videos of these heartfelt fan gestures, shared enthusiastically across platforms. This unprecedented level of fan activity highlights the immense anticipation for Fateh, which promises to be a game-changer in the action genre. The 390-foot cutout stands not only as a tribute to Sonu Sood but also as a testament to the film's impact, even before its release. Fateh, directed and written by Sonu Sood, is a high-octane action thriller set against the backdrop of cybercrime. The film promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with its gripping storyline. Produced by Umesh KR Bansal under Zee Studios and Sonali Sood of Shakti Sagar Productions, with Ajay Dhama as co-producer, Fateh is slated for a grand release on 10th January 2025. Samsung Galaxy S25 Series India Launch: South Korean giant Samsung is likely to launch Samsung Galaxy S25 Series With New AI features at the Galaxy Unpacked event which is scheduled to take place later this month. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Series is expected to include the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+ and Galaxy S25 Ultra reportedly. The Galaxy Unpacked 2025 is confirmed to be held in-person at San Jose on January 22 this year, having sent out invites at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025. The event will be held at 10 am PT or 11:30 pm (Indian time). The mega event will be live-streamed on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and its official YouTube channel. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be a key highlight in the new models, with Samsung describing it as a "more natural and intuitive Galaxy AI" designed to transform how Galaxy users engage with the world. Samsung Galaxy S25 Series: Pre-Reserve Offers And Pre-Booking Date (Expected) The company has started pre-reserve for the Galaxy S25 series in India through the Samsung India Store. The company says that customers can benefit up to Rs 5,000 by pre-reserving the phones for Rs 1,999 starting today. Notably, the pre-bookings of the flagship smartphones will continue till January 22 reportedly. Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Pre-Order And Sale Date (Expected) According to reports, Consumers can pre-order the Samsung Galaxy S25, Samsung Galaxy S25+ and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra will open two days after the event, or on Friday, January 24, and will remain open till Tuesday, February 4, 2025. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Series will go on sale on Friday, February 7, 2025. Samsung Galaxy S25 Series Specifications (Expected) The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is anticipated to feature the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processors across all variants, paired with 12GB of RAM as a standard offering. Alongside the flagship models, a Galaxy S25 Slim variant may launch later in the year. The series is expected to showcase upgraded cameras, improved charging speeds, and support for Apple-like MagSafe charging through the Qi2 wireless charging standard. With slimmer bezels enhancing the design, the standard Galaxy S25 is speculated to include a 4,000mAh battery, while the Plus and Ultra models could boast larger 4,900mAh and 5,000mAh batteries, respectively. The right mix of features, design, and energy efficiency is essential when buying a refrigerator. There are many types of refrigerators in the market, each serving various needs, which can become overwhelming when making a choice. In this article, we bring you some of the best refrigerators of 2025. We go in-depth with the top models, their stand-out features, and one downside for each, ensuring you make an informed decision. 1. Samsung 215 L 5 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator Image Source: Amazon Order Now The Samsung 215 L refrigerator, with the Paradise Bloom Blue design, offers performance, energy efficiency, and the best aesthetics in its class. This refrigerator boasts digital inverter technology that automatically adjusts the compressor speed according to the cooling demand, consuming less energy while promising greater durability. Key Features: Capacity: 215 Liter ideal for a small family. Energy Efficiency: 5-star rating for low electricity bills. Base Stand Drawer: Large space for storing dry vegetables and other accessories. Direct-Cool Technology: Effective cooling at low power consumption. Digital Inverter: Low noise and longer life of the compressor. The base stand drawer lacks ventilation, leading to a slight odor buildup over time. 2. Voltas Beko 183 L 2 Star Direct Cool Single Door Refrigerator Image Source: Amazon Order Now This refrigerator, designed by Voltas in collaboration with Beko, is perfect for smaller families. Its most striking feature, Fresh Box Technology, guarantees that fruits and vegetables will stay fresh longer. The very appealing Stella Blue color, therefore, combines well with functionality. Key Features: Capacity: 183 L, ideal for singles or couples. Fresh Box Technology: Maintains the level of humidity at the optimal level so that things will stay fresh longer. Chiller Zone: Maintains dairy and frozen items at the right temperature. Economical Price: Ideal for budget-conscious consumers. The 2-star energy rating consumes more power compared to energy-saving models. 3. LG 322 L 3 Star Frost-Free Smart Inverter Double Door Refrigerator Image Source: Amazon Order Now The 2023 model still stands strong in 2024: the LG 322 L refrigerator is the epitome of flexibility for a medium to large family. Its frost-free technology and convertible design make using it much more convenient, along with extra utility value. The Dazzle Steel finish gives it a sleek, modern look that fills any kitchen with style. Key Features: Capacity: 322 Liter mostly designed for large families and households. Frost-Free Technology: Automatic defrosting saves time and effort. Convertible Mode: Change the freezer into a fridge as per your needs. Smart Inverter Compressor: Consumes less energy and generates less noise. Express Freeze: Rapidly freezes food and drinks as required. The absence of a door alarm can result in accidental power consumption when the door is not closed properly. 4. IFB 197 L 5 Star Direct-Cool Single Door Refrigerator Image Source: Amazon Order Now IFB's 197 L refrigerator combines state-of-the-art inverter technology with a beautiful Mystic Blossom Blue finish. The inbuilt humidity controller and superior storage space provide peace of mind for a small household seeking the freshness of food. Key Features: Capacity: 197 Liter ideal for a small family. Energy Efficiency: 5-star rated for maximum saving on electricity. Advanced Inverter Compressor: Assures efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and provides longer life to the compressor. Humidity Controller: Keeps your fruits and veggies fresh. Ample Storage: Well-organized interior for easy access. The fridge takes a little longer to reach desired cooling after power outages. 5. Whirlpool 215 L Frost-Free Triple-Door Refrigerator Image Source: Amazon Order Now A premium offering within the triple-door category, this Whirlpool 215 L refrigerator comes with great design and utility. Its Protton Roy German Steel finish and inbuilt space management are ideal for urban kitchens. Key Features: Capacity: 215 L, ideal for couples or small families. Frost-Free Technology: Reduces the hassle of manual defrosting. Triple Door: Prevents mixing of odors among compartments. Space Management: Designated compartments for food items enhance convenience. Modern Finish: German Steel adds a sophisticated look. It has a slightly higher price point compared to other refrigerators with similar capacity. Keep in mind the size, energy efficiency, features, and budget while choosing the type of refrigerator that will best fit your needs. The Samsung 215 L is good for energy-conscious users who desire vivid aesthetics, the Voltas Beko 183 L fits a small house with a low budget, while the LG 322 L would suit large families requiring a frost-free solution. IFB's 197 L fridge is a sure bet when it comes to keeping things fresh, and Whirlpool's triple-door option spells premium design and utility. Disclaimer: The above mentioned article is a sponsored feature. This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever. PESHAWAR: Three soldiers and 19 terrorists were killed in three separate raids on militant hideouts in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the military said on Tuesday. The raids were carried out in the Matni area of Peshawar, the Bajizai area of Mohmand district, and Karak district. While eight terrorists were killed in the Peshawar operation, another eight died in Mohmand. Three terrorists were killed during the raid in Karak, the army said in a statement. The military said three soldiers were also killed during these shootouts. In recent months, Pakistan has stepped up intelligence-based operations against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has become emboldened since the Afghan Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP or Pakistan Taliban is a separate group, but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban. NUUK: President-elect Donald Trump told residents of Greenland that we're going to treat you well" as his oldest son visited the mineral-rich Danish territory that's home to a large US military base, heightening speculation that the incoming U.S. Administration could seek to acquire it. Trump posted a video showing a plane emblazoned with the word TRUMP landing in Nuuk, the Arctic territory's capital, in a landscape of snow-capped peaks and fjords. Don Jr. And my Reps landing in Greenland, Trump wrote. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN! Supporters later posted video of Trump speaking by phone to locals. In a statement, Greenland's government said Donald Trump Jr's visit was taking place as a private individual and not as an official visit, and Greenlandic representatives would not meet with him. Trump Jr was in Greenland for a day trip to shoot video content for podcasting, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorised to speak publicly. Trump's eldest son has become a prominent player in his father's political movement and has served on his presidential transition team. Mininguaq Kleist, permanent secretary of the ministry of statehood and foreign affairs, told The Associated Press that authorities were informed that Trump Jr would stay for about four to five hours. Neither Trump Jr's delegation nor Greenlandic government officials had requested a meeting, Kleist said. The visit nonetheless had political overtones. The president-elect has voiced a desire - also expressed during his first presidency - to acquire the territory in the Arctic, an area of strategic importance for the US, China, Russia and others. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Tuesday that the future of Greenland would be decided by Greenland, and called the United States Denmark's most important ally. Greenland is not for sale, Frederiksen said, adding that we need to stay calm and stick to our principles. The world's largest island, Greenland sits between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is 80% covered by an ice sheet. The autonomous territory has some 56,000 residents, most of them Indigenous Inuit people. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede has called for independence from Denmark, saying in a New Year's speech that it would be a way for Greenland to free itself from its colonial past. But Egede has also said he has no interest in Greenland becoming part of the United States, insisting that the island is not for sale. Independence has become a key issue ahead of an election for the Greenlandic parliament. A date hasn't been set, but it must take place no later than April 6. A former colony of Denmark, Greenland in 1979 gained self-rule, which is exercises through its parliament. Copenhagen still exercises control over Greenland's foreign and defence policy. A treaty with the United States, with the US base, also gives Washington say over the territory's defence. Denmark's King Frederik X has been asserting the kingdom's rights to Greenland as well as the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago located between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean. The king's power is mostly symbolic. Last month, the king by royal decree changed Denmark's coat of arms to include fields that represent Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Greenland is represented by a silver bear with red tongue. The royal announcement noted that since 1194, the royal coat of arms visually symbolised the legitimacy and sovereignty of the state and the monarch. We are all united and each of us committed for the Kingdom of Denmark, the king said in his New Year's address, adding: all the way to Greenland. The idea of the US purchasing Greenland - located near the North American landmass - is not new, with early attempts in the late 19th century. During his first term, Trump mused about purchasing Greenland. He cancelled a scheduled trip to Denmark in August 2019 after the prime minister dismissed the idea. Reviving the issue in a statement last month as he announced his pick for US ambassador to Denmark, Trump 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. Brazil, the current presiding nation of BRICS, has officially announced Indonesias membership as a full member of the influential bloc of emerging economies. The decision to admit Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous nation, was confirmed on Monday by Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant milestone in BRICS' expansion. BRICS' Ongoing Expansion Indonesias entry into BRICS comes after a successful candidacy approval by the blocs leaders in August 2023. However, the country made the final decision to join only after the formation of its newly elected government last year. Brazil, serving as the BRICS presidency for 2024, welcomed this historic development, highlighting the positive contributions Indonesia will make within the group. The inclusion of Indonesia, with its largest economy and population in Southeast Asia, strengthens BRICS' global standing. According to Brazil's government statement, the Southeast Asian nation shares the blocs commitment to reforming global governance institutions. Indonesia is also expected to play a pivotal role in fostering South-South cooperation, promoting mutual growth among developing nations. What Is BRICS? Initially founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS later welcomed South Africa in 2010, transforming into a platform that represents the growing influence of developing economies on the world stage. Over the past year, the group has significantly expanded, incorporating new members such as Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite an invitation, Saudi Arabia has yet to join the bloc. Indonesias induction further exemplifies the blocs expanding reach and appeal. Other countries, including Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia, have formally applied to join, with additional nations expressing interest in becoming part of BRICS. On January 7, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck Tibet near Mount Everest, registering a magnitude of 7.1 according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and 6.8 by Chinese authorities. The tremor, with its epicenter in Tingri County, about 80 kilometers from Everest, occurred at 9:05 a.m. local time. The Devastating Impact Its shallow depth of just 10 kilometers amplified the intensity of the tremors, affecting Nepal, Bhutan, and northern India. The disaster has claimed at least 90 lives and injured over 130, with buildings collapsing across Shigatse and surrounding townships. Rescue operations are ongoing, with more than 1,500 emergency workers deployed to search for survivors trapped under rubble. What Lies Beneath Tibet? Tibet's seismic activity stems from the unending collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, a process responsible for forming the mighty Himalayas. This region is one of the most geologically active zones on Earth, prone to frequent, significant earthquakes. The January 7 quake was triggered by a rupture in the Lhasa block, a geological formation caught between immense tectonic pressures. Positioned between the Qiangtang and Tethyan Himalayan terranes, the Lhasa block experiences both north-south compression and west-east stress due to the Indian-Eurasian plate collision. These forces cause crustal uplift, lateral movements, and seismic activity that contribute to the ongoing rise of the Himalayas. Tremors Felt Far and Wide Residents in Kathmandu, 400 kilometers from the epicenter, felt strong tremors, prompting many to flee their homes. While no immediate casualties were reported in Nepal, authorities are assessing the damage. Relief Efforts Underway Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged swift action to minimize casualties and resettle affected families. With aftershocks continuing to shake the region, teams are working tirelessly to provide relief and evaluate the damage. This latest seismic event reminds us of the Earth's dynamic forces shaping the majestic, yet volatile, Himalayan landscape. Indian stock markets opened with marginal gains on Tuesday after a steep fall on Monday, with both indices opening in green. The Nifty 50 index opened at 23,679.90 points with a surge of 63.85 points or 0.27 per cent, while the BSE Sensex opened at 78,019.80 points with a gain of 54.81 points or 0.07 per cent. Experts noted that the huge selling on Monday, driven by fears of HMPV cases in India, dented the entire market recovery. The outlook for the market remains under pressure, and for a recovery, strong fundamentals such as a rate cut and a good Budget are needed. Ajay Bagga, Banking and Market Expert told ANI that "Our outlook on Indian markets is cloudy for now, as the fundamentals need to show signs of recovery. Markets will react in anticipation, so a good, market friendly budget and a RBI rate cut could help sentiment. Also, once the Trump 2.0 policy clarity is there by early February, we could see better sentiment as right now the worst is getting factored in". In the sectoral indices, all sectors gained during the opening session, but the gains were marginal compared to the fall seen yesterday. Nifty Consumer Durables and Nifty Oil and Gas led the gains with a surge of more than 0.5 per cent at the time of opening. In the Nifty 50 shares list, 38 stocks opened in gains, while 5 stocks opened in red, and 8 remained unchanged. "Yesterday drop has seriously weakened the entire recovery from the Dec 31st lows of 23460 so for the day, bulls have to protect 23500 if they are to have any chance of a rebound. Bears have the upper hand till 24060 remains intact, but more immediate resistance lies near 23800. On the other hand, a break below 23500 will again bring the focus back on the Nov lows near 23,260" said Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research, Axis Securities. The top gainers in Nifty during the opening session included ONGC, ITC, HCL Tech, Titan, and Tata Consumers, while NTPC, Axis Bank, Cipla, Ultratech Cement, and Hindalco were the top losers in Nifty 50. The markets witnessed huge selling pressure on Monday due to panic selling. "Technical indicators offer a mixed outlook. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 40.7, signaling bearish momentum, while a bullish crossover in the Stochastic RSI hints at a short-term recovery. As such, the market remains directionally uncertain, and investors should monitor price action around key support and resistance zones for potential volatility" said Varun Aggarwal, MD Profit Idea. In the other Asian markets on Tuesday, all indices gained except for Hong Kong's and China's markets. The Hang Seng index declined by more than 1.68 per cent. Japan's Nikkei 225 index surged more than 2.38 per cent, making a rally, while Taiwan Weighted and South Korea's KOSPI also gained marginally at the time of filing this report. (ANI) NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], January 7: Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design & Technology (SMI) is accepting admissions for all courses in its undergraduate and postgraduate programs for the academic year 2025-26. SMI is India's premier art & design institute that offers 25 courses in Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG) and Postgraduate Diploma (PGDP) platforms. With a legacy of three decades and distinguished alumni across the world, SMI is truly ahead of the curve in the domain of art and design education, backed by a strong interconnect with technology. Currently 1500 students of SMI are mentored by 150 faculty members, with most faculty members being domain leaders and practitioners in their respective fields. SMI offers diverse courses ranging from Visual Communication to Product Design to unique future-ready courses like Creative Education and Public Space Design. The 4-year UG Professional Program (UGPP) leading up to a B.Des. or BFA Degree allows students to explore multiple art and design domains of their interest. The 3-year UG skill-based vocational program leading to a B.Voc. Degree is ideal for learners who are focused on industry-specific interest areas. The PG program of 2 years' duration awards M.Des. and MA degrees. The MA program admits students with a 3-year UG Degree while the M.Des. program requires a 4-year UG Degree qualification. The one-year PG Diploma Program (PGDP) is ideal for students with a 3-year UG Degree to transit to a 4-year master's program or to enter the field of art or design. Speaking about this announcement, Dr Arindam Das, Director SMI said, "Our aim at MAHE Bengaluru is to provide a transformative learning experience that equips students with the knowledge and dynamic skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving domains. Through our diverse and contemporary programs, we strive to nurture global citizens who can make a positive impact on society. We invite aspiring students to join us on this exciting journey of transdisciplinary learning, growth, and exciting possibilities." Students interested in applying to SMI's courses can visit the website at www.srishtimaniplinstitue.in to explore the courses on offer and complete the application process. Established in 1953, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence and a Deemed-to-be University. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India honoured MAHE with the prestigious designation of Institution of Eminence (IoE). Currently ranked fourth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is an increasingly preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience. The MAHE Bengaluru Campus excels in delivering comprehensive education to students, supported by highly qualified faculty, and dedicated mentors. The MAHE Bengaluru campus with its eight constituent institutions, has an inspiring, future-relevant learning ecosystem, on a new age tech enabled living campus. Here, the students immerse themselves with a deep sense of belonging and transform multiple choices and opportunities into well-defined career choices. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 7,: In a statement that underscores the brand's robust growth, Meal of the Moment (MOM) - a homegrown nutritious snacking brand - has announced that it is targeting an ambitious topline of INR 150 cr. in 2025. Founded in 2017, MOM has revolutionised the snacking category with their smart and wholesome food solutions that comprise 100 per cent natural ingredients. With an impressive growth rate of 7-8 per cent month-over-month (25 per cent Q-o-Q), MOM is well on their way to establishing itself as a market leader in the healthy snacks category. The brand's products are currently available at more than 45,000 retail stores across the country, with a significant online retail footprint that includes all quick commerce platforms. To further accelerate their vertical and horizontal growth, MOM is implementing various strategies, which include launching various new products, flavours and pack sizes within their core categories, increasing their presence in general trade stores, and expanding to modern-chain stores such Reliance, Metro and DMart, among others. In addition to all low cost airline carriers in India, MOM is also available on some international carriers, namely WestJet and SunWing in Canada, American Airlines, Kuwait Airways and Fits Air Sri Lanka, and is in talks with several others. Further, to build upon their overseas footprint, MOM has reported that it is in the advanced stages of talks with distributors in the US and Australia, and will begin exports to these geographies in the coming months. To help execute these multi-faceted expansion plans, MOM is putting in place a robust and experienced senior leadership team that will enable them to execute their strategies plans in an expeditious manner. Commenting on the announcement, MOM's co-founder Prateek Bhagchandka said, "We are excited about the many possibilities that 2025 has in store for our brand. The north star, for us, is to be a profitable INR 500 cr. topline company in the next three or four years, and a leader in the categories we operate in. All our targets and our growth strategies are aligned towards enabling us to achieve this goal." MOM's announcement is not only indicative of the brand's resounding performance but also the rapid growth of the domestic snacks market - valued at INR 42,694.9 cr. in 2023, it is projected to reach INR 95,521.8 cr. by 2032 (IMARC Group). The sector's growth is being propelled by an increased demand for convenience, on-demand nutrition, and evolving eating habits, as well as stringent regulatory standards established by the FSSAI. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], January 7: These days, school kids' are making wonders and they are highly creative, innovative, and achieving exceptional success at a young age. Evenly, in an educational scenario, students are making massive plans to pursue their educational dreams. Looking at the immense need to fulfil the parent's and child's dreams, Resonance Schools have opened doors to a Wisdom Campus in Madhapur, one of the best schools in Hyderabad, located in the heart of the IT city. The wisdom campus brings tailored courses to harbor future leaders that ultimately enables students to unleash a world of opportunities. Resonance Schools Launches Wisdom Campus in Madhapur Introducing the New Wisdom Campus in Madhapur, one of the best schools in Hyderabad - where every parent's dream meets every child's future! It is designed to empower today's generation with IIT-JEE and NEET boarding and day-scholar programs. Located at Khanammet, Madhapur, Hyderabad, the school officially opened on January 5, 2025. Wisdom Curriculum to Nurture Resonance Students in Madhapur Resonance Schools introduces a flagship program with a motive to optimise the students potential and aims for the success in JEE Main and Advanced, NEET, and Olympiad exams. The structural approach and the fast paced methodology makes students practice innumerable questions and envisage concepts. Throughout the course curriculum, students will get continued support and guidance from the faculty, mentors, and for self study analysis. In addition, Resonance is considered to be the best state syllabus schools in Hyderabad. Wisdom Courses Enhance Students' Intellectual Competence The students will get an exposure of Science, Social Science, Maths, Mental Ability, Language, and Computers in the Wisdom Course. Each year, the course is labeled under specific names and they are Photon+ (6th Class), Precious+ (7th Class), Paradise+ (8th Class), Pioneer+ ( 9th Class), and the Pinnacle+ (10th Class). In Wisdom courses, the main focus is on IIT JEE Advanced / NEET. In addition, a student will be able to target exams like NSO, VVM, NTSE, NMTC, IMO, IOQM, IJSO, Olympiad, etc. People who have visualised the wisdom course said, it provides rare material/guidance and is in fact the best schools in Madhapur for students' future. Resonance Gurukul School, Patancheruvu In 2022, Resonance opened a School in Patancheruvu that functions on the Gurukul System engaging residential. Stretched across a 20-acre land, the school is located on the Patancheruvu to Shankarpally road in the Nandigama village. At Gurukul Campus, students are moulded from their secondary education (6th Class onward) by integrating highly curated IIT-JEE/NEET foundation courses with the regular school curriculum. At Resonance Gurukul School, Patancheru, students can choose between Olympiad courses and Wisdom courses, tailored to their interests and aspirations. Resonance Schools Achievements' Since 2022 Resonance Schools are highly decisive in guiding students with a unified comprehensive curriculum (Wisdom Course, & Olympiad Course) that drives students in getting success through various exams. Students have achieved exceptional success with 10 students in RMO (2024), 37 students in NMTC (2024), 10 QM student results in (2023), 19 students in RMO (2023), and 28 selections in VVM (2023). Why Parents Should Give a Thought on Resonance Schools? Resonance schools do thrive to provide quality education and alongside impart excellent student life skills. The school inculcates innovative thinking by exposing the students to extra-curricular activities. In addition, encourage the students to participate in sports, games to keep them strong and fit. The student's mental well-being is monitored by counselors and doctors whenever it is needed. The most important aspect in the Resonance Schools is, students are exposed to studies in a stress-free environment. Every student will have a personalised self-study calendar. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Chandigarh, Haryana (India), January 7: Kushmanda Cosmetics Pvt. Ltd. has announced the launch of Born16, a need-of-the-hour colour cosmetics brand designed specifically for Indian women. The brand comes as a solution to address long-standing beauty challenges faced by women in the country. The Managing Director of the company, Shweta Sharma Garg, revealed two comprehensive makeup collections: Moon Duchess and Tamaraa. Each range is thoughtfully designed to offer complete makeup solutions that are suited to the various skin tones and climate difficulties faced by Indian women. * Moon Duchess Collection: Features micro-encapsulated compact and blush, eyeshadow palettes, and matte lipsticks. * Tamaraa Collection: Includes microencapsulated serum foundation, compact powders, blushes, liquid matte lipsticks, mascara, and a dual kajal & eyeliner stick. Shweta said, "India's tropical climate has always been a significant challenge for makeup wearers. Our products are specifically engineered to be 100% sweat-proof and mattifying, ensuring makeup stays intact throughout the day." The brand's products are free from harmful chemicals, instead incorporating nourishing ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Jojoba Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Vitamin E. Lipsticks, for instance, are crafted without D5, Paraben, Mineral Oils, Talc, Sulphates, and Alcohol. The path to launching Born16 was not without challenges. The team encountered numerous obstacles, from delayed consignments to vendor complications. Yet, these hurdles only strengthened their resolve. "When you're starting something new, complications are inevitable," Shweta reflects. "But each challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve." As Born16 makes its debut, it promises to be more than just another cosmetics brand. It represents a powerful narrative of self-love, breaking free from societal constraints, and celebrating individual beauty in all its forms. Available now on the official website, Born16 invites women to experience a makeup revolution, encouraging them to feel sixteen again - confident, vibrant, and unapologetically themselves. (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) VMPL Delhi NCR [India], January 7: Mother Sparsh School, a leading name in early childhood education, has announced an exciting franchise model that intends to grow the preschool segment across India. The educational enterprise, founded by Puneeta Singh in 2017, is now offering entrepreneurs an opportunity to partner in its mission of improving early learning experiences. The franchise model presents an attractive investment range from 4,99,999 to 20 lakhs, with a distinctive approach that sets it apart from other educational franchises in the market. Prospective franchise owners will provide the property, while Mother Sparsh takes comprehensive responsibility for operational support, curriculum development, and brand management. Mother Sparsh Founded from Personal Experience Puneeta Singh's journey began with a profound challenge many parents face: finding a truly nurturing educational environment for young children. After working in corporate as an HR, she made a bold decision to establish Mother Sparsh Pre-School in Delhi NCR and Lucknow, addressing the gaps she observed in early childhood education. Her vision has since grown into a thoroughly planned educational model that prioritises holistic child development. The franchise offering comes packed with an array of support mechanisms designed to ensure franchisee success, and it includes: * Comprehensive Business Framework: A proven model that offers business autonomy and monopoly rights. * Marketing Support: Year-round marketing assistance to drive enrollments and build local brand presence. * Curriculum Excellence: Access to an award-winning educational approach developed by early childhood specialists. * Operational Guidance: Advanced IT systems, regular quality audits, and personalised mentorship. * Teacher Development: Solid recruitment and training support to maintain high educational standards. With over eight years of experience in the education sector, Mother Sparsh has come to be known as one of India's fastest-growing preschool brands. The institution focuses on: - Creating a motherly, secure environment - Providing personalised academic attention - Implementing practical, engaging learning methodologies - Fostering social and emotional development The franchise model offers entrepreneurs a chance to be part of this expanding educational ecosystem, with initial franchise costs currently waived. Interested entrepreneurs can explore this opportunity by visiting www.mothersparshschool.com. (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) VMPL New Delhi [India], January 7: MSys Technologies, a leading software product engineering and digital transformation services company, marked 2024 as a year of significant achievements and AI-powered technology advancements. The company expanded its focus beyond traditional growth metrics to include Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) impact and a broadened view of Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) that now encompasses security and community satisfaction. With its Product Engineering expertise, MSys delivered infrastructure engineering and digital solutions that enabled clients to scale and maintain competitiveness. The year concluded with MSys earning the Great Place to Work Certification for the second consecutive year, recognizing its focus on employee well-being and engagement. In 2024, MSys added Fortune 500 and Global 2000 clients, including new partnerships in FinTech, PayTech, and InsurTech sectors. The company achieved CSAT scores exceeding 90% through AI-powered technology and strategic product roadmaps, reflecting its commitment to delivering practical value to clients. Sanjay Sehgal, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of MSys Technologies, stated, "MSys has a customer-centric culture that fosters trust, forging mutually beneficial relationships. We solve clients' complex technological challenges, helping them achieve goals and unlock their potential. Our Global Development Centers (a recent one in Singapore) serve as forward-thinking technology partnering hubs. These centers leverage our experiential customer intimacy models and AI-powered technology transformations at scale, ensuring customer excellence. We have flexible MSys Business Models to provide the best possible return on investments for your long-term success." Notably, MSys Technologies received several honors and achieved key milestones. The company was named a Forbes India-DGEMS Select 200 Company of 2024, recognizing its focus on innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives. It also inaugurated a new Global Development Center in Singapore, enhancing its presence in the APAC region. Other achievements included the MSys-Boomi partnership to support digital transformation, being a finalist for the PayTech Award in Digital Currency Tech of the Future, and recognition in the SDC Awards across categories such as Storage, Cloud, AI, Data Security, and Intelligent Automation. The MSys Accelerator Program also continued its work, providing mentorship and funding to startups and high-growth companies. MSys showcased its AI-powered technology advancements throughout the year at key industry events like HPE Discover 2024, Cantaloupe U 2024, and Super AI Singapore. These collaborations underlined the company's commitment to developing innovative solutions in partnership with its clients. The company has also made progress in Infrastructure Engineering by rebranding its SNVC Business Unit to align more closely with Infrastructure Automation and Orchestration. This shift and the appointment of new leaders, such as Sachin Bhurke, as AI Infrastructure and Solutions Leader reflect its continued investment in advanced solutions. MSys Technologies' people-focused approach remains a driving force, earning the company the Great Place to Work Certification for 2024-2025. This recognition reflects its emphasis on fostering a supportive and growth-oriented environment. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals remain central to MSys' operations. The company aims to reduce its carbon footprint and energy consumption by 10%-15% in 2025 through smart energy and IoT-enabled solutions. It has also committed to increasing gender diversity by 10% in the coming year. Looking ahead, MSys Technologies plans to double its growth by 2026, driven by the expansion of its Global Development Centers and its focus on pioneering AI technologies to support businesses globally. About MSys Technologies MSys Technologies revolutionizes tech solutions for Fortune 500 companies and Silicon Valley ISVs, delivering high-impact, AI-powered software innovations that address complex technology challenges. From digital transformation to system optimization, MSys empowers businesses to thrive, stay ahead, and drive success with scalable, cutting-edge solutions in a fast-paced digital world. Learn more on our website and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. For Marketing, Public Relations, (Product) Investments, or other inquiries, please contact: Sameer Danave sdanave@msystechnologies.com Senior Director, Marketing MSys Technologies Website: https://www.msystechnologies.com/ Telephone: +91-20-6654 5700 (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) NewsVoir Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 7: The THE RISE 14th Global Summit, scheduled to be held at the iconic ITC Grand Chola in Chennai from January 9-11, promises to be a momentous occasion for the Global Tamil community. Chevalier Rev. Dr. Jagath Gaspar Raj, Founder of THE RISE Organization, described the summit as a "majestic and magical Tamil moment" in a press statement released in Chennai. The summit will see an exceptional international participation, with 30 Tamil entrepreneurs from Switzerland alone and 70 delegates from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Enthusiastic professionals and entrepreneurs are also coming from countries such as South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, Papua New Guinea, and Ghana. Delegates from nearly 40 countries and major cities worldwide will gather, showcasing the global presence of the Tamil community and their role in shaping the future of Tamil culture and economy in the 21st century. "GO GLOBAL THAMIZHA" is the clarion call of THE RISE Chennai International Summit, which aims to open new opportunities for Tamil entrepreneurs, especially those in the MSME sector, to network and globalize their products and services. The summit is expected to facilitate the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) worth over Rs. 1,000 crore between delegates. One of the most remarkable features of this summit is its inclusivity, with entrepreneurs ranging from small businesses with a turnover of Rs.5 lakhs to large enterprises with a turnover of Rs. 500 crores. All will unite under the guiding principles of Tamil Aram and a shared commitment to prosperity. A special focus will be on the Information Technology segment in the GO GLOBAL THAMIZHA SUMMIT 2025, with a dedicated track titled "Deep Tech Future". This mini-summit will explore the cutting-edge developments in AI, quantum computing, and more. Key speakers include globally recognized figures such as: * Cecil Sunder, Director of AI at Microsoft, USA* Ganesh Radhakrishnan, CEO of FEKKI AI, USA* Rajendran Dhandapani, Director at Zoho Corporation* Prabhakaran Murugaiah, Founder & CEO of Mayu AI, USA* Sidd Ahamed, President & CEO of VDART, USA In addition, there will be a focused track for healthcare entrepreneurs and professionals under the auspices of Tamil Doctors International (TDI). Dr. C.J. Vetrievel, Global President of TDI, Founder & Chairman of Be Well Hospitals, announced the MARUTHUA MUNNETRAM 2025 (Advancements in Healthcare), a one-day international healthcare summit on January 11, 2025. This event will bring together leading doctors, healthcare entrepreneurs, innovators, and professionals to explore the future of healthcare technology. Topics include the integration of global healthcare practices, modern healthcare innovations, strengthening the healthcare workforce, making healthcare affordable, and transforming healthcare operations. An Investor Connect Program and Healthcare Startup Fest will also take place, in partnership with Startup TN, where healthcare startups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions to global investors and potential partners. The summit will also feature a distinguished panel of doctors and healthcare experts, including speakers from the Indian Medical Association, Chennai who will lead discussions on various healthcare-related topics. Moreover, THE RISE will launch several groundbreaking initiatives, including the establishment of the Tamil Economic Council (TEC), Tamil Bankers International (TBI), and Tamil Millionaires International (TMI), aimed at advancing the economic and financial prospects of the Tamil community worldwide. A day long Pitch Fest Jointly to be curated by Global Tamil Angels Network and Startup Singam will reach out and hand hold AI based Startups as well as grassroots level micro and small enterprises, particularly the ones headed by Women. A key highlight of the summit will be the announcement of a transformative social impact project in collaboration with the Halima Foundation to improve the lives of over 70,000 war widows in the north-eastern districts of Sri Lanka. Halima Foundation has already set apart $100000 as seed money for this important and transformative project. Additionally, THE RISE will unveil plans for the development of a Global Tamil Village and Country Club near Kutralam, designed to promote arts, culture, environmental sustainability (including the preservation of Palmyra trees), religious tourism, and global Tamil collaboration. The Government of Tamil Nadu is represented in this Summit by Several Key Ministers including K.N Nehru, Tha.Mo. Anbarasan, Dr Palanivel Thiaga Rajan and T.R.B Raja. For more information about the summit, please visit: www.tamilrise.org. To learn more about the TDI International Summit and registration, visit: www.tamildoctors.in / Contact: +91 78248 21747, +91 98411 74889, +91 95000 60032. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 7: Vels Institute of Science, Technology, and Advanced Studies (VISTAS) has introduced a 100% scholarship for students who score above 90% in their Grade 12 board exams. This initiative, aimed at promoting academic excellence, was announced by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Institutions, at the Second Edition of the Academic Excellence Award ceremony held at the Institutions Auditorium. The Academic Excellence Award, presented in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Nursery Primary Matric Higher Secondary and CBSE Schools Association, celebrated outstanding academic performance of the students from Grade 12. The event recognized and honored 1,000 top-performing students from schools across Tamil Nadu, with ten students selected from both the Science and Commerce streams of each school. Dr. Ramesh Prabha, a veteran journalist, career counselor, and author, graced the event as the chief guest. In his address, he provided valuable guidance to students on how to choose a career path that aligns with their personal interests and passions. He emphasized the importance of self-reflection, urging them to identify their strengths, values, and what excites them, rather than simply following societal expectations or external pressures. Moreover, he offered insightful advice on how to face competitive exams, which are often a daunting part of a student's journey. He highlighted the need for disciplined study habits, time management, and consistency in preparation. He also encouraged the students to remain calm under pressure and stay focused on their goals. Speaking at the event, Dr. Preethaa Ganesh emphasized, "I am proud to announce that students who score above 90% in their board exams and choose VISTAS for their higher education will receive a 100% scholarship on their tuition fees. Alternatively, if students take our scholarship exam V-SAT and perform well, they will also be eligible for a 100% scholarship on their tuition fees." The ceremony was also attended by other distinguished leaders of the Institution, including: * Dr. Arthi Ganesh, Pro Chancellor (Administration), VISTAS* Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President, Vels Group of Institutions* Dr. Sriman Narayanan, Vice Chancellor, VISTAS Established in 2008 and recognized as a deemed-to-be Institution by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India, VISTAS has emerged as a leading multidisciplinary institution in Tamil Nadu. With three campuses spread across 100 acres in Chennai, offers a wide range of programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels across various fields such as Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, Agriculture, Management, Law, Arts, and Sciences. In addition to its academic achievements, Our Institution recently earned the prestigious NAAC A++ accreditation, further solidifying its commitment to academic excellence. For more information, please visit www.vistas.ac.in. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN New Delhi [India], January 7: Did you know 83% of enterprise workloads will be in the cloud by 2024, yet cybercrime is projected to cost businesses over $10.5 trillion annually by 2025? As cyber threat escalates, a cyberattacks occur every 39 seconds and data breaches become alarmingly common, protecting sensitive information and maintaining compliance have become top priorities for businesses of all sizes. From financial institutions to healthcare providers, enterprises face challenges such as unauthorized data access, insider threats, and pressure to comply with stringent regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2. A single data breach can result in millions of dollars in financial losses and irreparable reputational damage. Toystack Virtual OS offers a modern solution to these challenges. Built to secure enterprise workflows with end-to-end encryption, role-based access, and real-time governance, it provides unmatched protection without compromising performance. By enabling businesses to safeguard sensitive data while meeting compliance requirements, Toystack Virtual OS empowers enterprises to operate with confidence in today's high-risk digital environment. Secure your enterprise with Toystack Virtual OS. Get in touch with our experts today! Modern Security Challenges In today's digital-first world, enterprises face an increasingly complex security landscape. With 68% of business leaders reporting that their cybersecurity risks are growing, securing sensitive data and maintaining compliance have become critical priorities. Here are the top challenges enterprises encounter: Data Breaches Data breaches are a growing threat, with 45% of organizations experiencing at least one breach in the past year. Sensitive information like financial records, intellectual property, and personal customer data remains vulnerable to unauthorized access. A single breach costs businesses an average of $4.45 million, impacting not just finances but also trust and operational stability. Compliance Pressure Meeting industry regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 is no easy task. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including fines of up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR. Enterprises struggle to implement robust systems that ensure data security while simplifying regulatory compliance across distributed teams. Insider Threats Insider threats account for 60% of all data breaches, whether intentional or accidental. Employees with access to critical data can misuse or leak information, exposing businesses to financial loss and reputational harm. Without proper controls, companies risk losing sensitive assets to theft or oversight. Impact on Businesses The consequences of weak security are far-reaching: * Financial Losses: Breaches and compliance failures lead to heavy fines and revenue loss.* Reputational Damage: Customers lose trust, leading to decreased loyalty and market share.* Legal Repercussions: Non-compliance invites lawsuits, penalties, and regulatory scrutiny. Toystack Virtual OS addresses these modern challenges head-on with its robust security framework, ensuring enterprises are protected against breaches, insider risks, and compliance pitfalls. Security Features of Toystack Virtual OS With cyberattacks rising by 38% in 2022 alone, enterprises need a solution that offers both robust protection and simplified governance. Toystack Virtual OS delivers unmatched security capabilities to safeguard sensitive data, mitigate risks, and meet compliance requirements effortlessly. End-to-End Encryption Toystack Virtual OS protects your data both in transit and at rest using enterprise-grade encryption protocols. Whether your employees are accessing files remotely or storing critical information, data remains fully secure from unauthorized access. This eliminates vulnerabilities during transfers, significantly reducing breach risks. Encrypted workflows have proven to cut potential data exposure by up to 60%. Role-Based Access Controls Insider threats account for 60% of enterprise data breaches, often due to excessive employee permissions. With role-based access controls (RBAC), Toystack Virtual OS ensures that users only access the data and applications necessary for their roles. This fine-grained control minimizes the chances of data misuse, unauthorized downloads, or accidental leaks. Governance and Oversight Toystack's centralized Control Tower gives enterprises full visibility and control over virtual desktop environments. Key features include: * Real-Time Monitoring: Track user activity and identify suspicious behavior instantly.* Activity Logs: Detailed logs ensure transparency, audit readiness, and quick incident investigations.With these tools, businesses maintain compliance while addressing potential security concerns proactively. Compliance Capabilities Meeting industry regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 is no longer a burden. Toystack Virtual OS is designed to align seamlessly with global compliance standards, helping enterprises avoid fines and legal repercussions. Companies operating in healthcare, finance, and other regulated industries can confidently secure sensitive data without compromising on performance. By combining encryption, access controls, and centralized oversight, Toystack Virtual OS transforms enterprise security. It offers organizations the tools to protect their data, streamline compliance, and eliminate risks--all while maintaining peak productivity. Real-World Applications Toystack Virtual OS is transforming enterprise security across industries by solving complex challenges with precision and reliability. Here are two real-world examples of its impact: 1. Investment Firm The Challenge: An investment firm faced a major security concern when departing employees downloaded sensitive research data, leading to compliance risks and potential financial losses. With regulatory fines for unauthorized data exposure reaching as high as $20 million, the firm needed an urgent solution. The Solution: Toystack Virtual OS deployed six Virtual OS licenses with integrated data governance tools. Access was restricted through centralized oversight, and users were prevented from downloading, sharing, or emailing confidential files. The Outcome: * 100% Data Protection: Prevented all unauthorized data transfers.* Regulatory Compliance: Ensured adherence to stringent compliance standards like GDPR.* Enhanced Oversight: The Control Tower provided real-time monitoring, safeguarding critical business assets. Toystack Virtual OS enabled the firm to secure its research and maintain trust with clients while avoiding costly regulatory penalties. 2. Healthcare Company The Challenge: A US-based healthcare provider needed to outsource data processing to an offshore team while maintaining HIPAA compliance. Ensuring patient data security across international teams presented significant risks, as fines for non-compliance can reach up to $1.5 million annually. The Solution: Toystack Virtual OS provisioned secure Virtual OS instances for the offshore team, implementing IP whitelisting to restrict access to authorized servers. Sensitive data was ring-fenced, ensuring it never left the secure environment. The Outcome: * 100% HIPAA Compliance: Protected patient data in line with healthcare regulations.* Enhanced Security: Offshore teams worked on a fully secure, monitored environment.* Operational Efficiency: Seamlessly enabled international workflows without compromising security. This healthcare provider successfully safeguarded critical data while improving team productivity, proving how Toystack Virtual OS is redefining security in regulated industries. With Toystack Virtual OS, enterprises across sectors can solve security challenges, prevent breaches, and ensure compliance--making it the ultimate tool for secure, modern operations. Conclusion As cyber threats continue to evolve, the cost of inaction is staggering. The average enterprise breach costs $4.45 million, with regulatory non-compliance adding millions more in fines and penalties. Toystack Virtual OS redefines enterprise security, delivering a robust, compliance-ready solution that combines end-to-end encryption, real-time oversight, and role-based access controls. By protecting sensitive data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and mitigating insider threats, Toystack Virtual OS empowers businesses to operate with confidence in today's digital-first world. Whether securing patient data for HIPAA compliance or safeguarding financial research, it provides the security foundation enterprises need to thrive. Secure your enterprise with Toystack Virtual OS. Get in touch with our experts today! (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Union Minister of Labour and Employment Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, launched the multilingual functionality on e-Shram portal, during an event held in New Delhi on Tuesday. In line with the vision of making eShram a 'One-Stop-Solution', this portal will now be available in all 22 Scheduled Languages, the Ministry of Labour and Employment stated in a release. The event attended by Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment and several senior officials, marked the achievement of another milestone in Government's efforts to provide comprehensive social protection to unorganized workers in the country. MEITY's Bhashini project has been leveraged to upgrade the eShram portal with 22 languages. The previous version was available only in English, Hindi, Kannada and Marathi. In his address, Mandaviya highlighted the growing trust in the e-Shram platform, sharing that the portal records an average of over 30,000 registrations per day by unorganised workers. Union Minister urged all unorganised workers to register on the e-Shram portal to avail benefits of various Government schemes designed to support their welfare, livelihood and well-being. He emphasized that registration on the portal would facilitate access to a broad spectrum of social security schemes and initiatives. As on date, access to twelve schemes of the Government of India has been facilitated through the eShram portal. For greater outreach and to ensure a seamless and user-centric experience, Dr. Mandaviya mentioned that engagement of mediators such as Common Service Centres, Bank Correspondents, Post offices, MY Bharat volunteers, etc., will be explored.Sumita Dawra, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, elaborated that the Ministry has been working on enabling e-Shram as a 'One Stop Solution' for seamless access to Government schemes tailored for welfare and social protection of unorganised workers. She informed that the efforts are underway to integrate all relevant social security and welfare schemes with the e-Shram portal, including relevant programmes of State Governments. Registration of Building and Other Construction Workers (BoCW) and gig and platform workers on the e-Shram portal, is ongoing on mission-mode. Secretary, M/o L&E mentioned that launch of an e-Shram Mobile App, introduction of a Single Common Application Form to enable single sign-on for users, and integration with payment gateways to further simplify access of social protection benefits, are some of the next initiatives in pipeline. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, prioritises India's commitment to citizen-centric governance. Responding to the post by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Modi wrote, "Union Minister, @AshwiniVaishnaw explains how the Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025, prioritises India's commitment to citizen-centric governance. The rules aim to safeguard personal data while driving growth and inclusivity." On January 5, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on Sunday elaborated on the draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, designed to protect citizens' rights under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The Ministry announced that public feedback on the draft rules would be open until February 18, 2025, through the MyGov portal. The DPDP Act and the draft rules are structured to keep pace with the rapid advancements in digital technologies, it added. The Data Protection Board, envisioned as a fully digital entity, will enable citizens to lodge complaints and resolve disputes online without the need for physical presence. The rules also aim to educate citizens about their rights and empower them to manage their personal data via multilingual digital platforms. In addition to online feedback, the Ministry plans structured consultations with civil society, industry, and government stakeholders to refine the rules. The finalised rules will then be submitted to Parliament for approval. The draft rules aim to protect individual rights without causing disruptions to existing digital practices. Organizations will be given adequate time to comply with the new regulations, with minimal compliance burdens. Data processing based on prior consent will be allowed to continue, with notices issued to individuals, ensuring their rights under the law are upheld. To safeguard children's personal data, Data Fiduciaries will be required to implement measures to obtain verifiable parental consent. Additionally, startups will benefit from reduced compliance requirements, while significant Data Fiduciaries will be subject to stricter obligations. The DPDP Act introduces graded financial penalties based on the severity and duration of violations. Businesses may voluntarily submit undertakings to the Data Protection Board to avoid penalties during proceedings, ensuring fair and proportional enforcement. The draft rules do not impose a blanket requirement for storing personal data within India. However, restrictions on cross-border data transfers may apply to specific categories of personal data as recommended by a designated committee. By integrating digital-first mechanisms and maintaining a balanced regulatory framework, the draft DPDP Rules aim to secure the rights of citizens while ensuring India's digital economy continues to thrive. (ANI) Actor Adrien Brody reflected on his career from Oscar win in 2003 following his Golden Globe win for Best Actor Male in a Motion Picture-Drama, 'The Brutalist' on Sunday. Brody emerged victorious from a competitive pool of nominees, including Timothee Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Daniel Craig (Queer), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), and Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice). With this, the Oscar-winning actor has added another accolade to his illustrious career. At the backstage, the actor recalled the highs and lows of his acting career after his famous 2003 Oscar win for 'Pianist', reported Deadline. "It has been decades, I've had a long life and career and a lot of peaks and a lot of valleys. It's given me perspective, it's given me great appreciation for this moment because it can go away," said Brody as quoted by Deadline. Following his Golden Globes win, the 'Pianist' actor blessed his stars for having a great career but still believes that finding scripts like 'The Brutalist' is still a challenge for him. Brody said, "I'm very grateful. I've had a very blessed career, but it's still a challenge to find work such as this. You can have a triumph in your life again is healing and rewarding and what it speaks to of my family's struggles and the hardships that they faced that have given me firm footing as an American actor." At Golden Globes 2025 in LA, Brody expressed his deep gratitude, reflecting on his journey in Hollywood and the personal significance of his role in 'The Brutalist' in his emotional acceptance speech after winning the award "I will cherish this moment forever," Brody said, adding, "This has been an incredible journey, and I'm proud to share this moment with all of you." During his speech, Brody also honoured his girlfriend, Georgina Chapman, praising her strength and resilience. Chapman, known for her work in fashion, has faced public challenges, including her previous marriage to Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein. The Golden Globe Awards, broadcast live from The Beverly Hilton, celebrated the best in film and television, officially launching the 2025 awards season. The star-studded event saw Hollywood's finest walking the red carpet, including celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett, Ariana Grande, and Glen Powell, all showcasing stunning fashion choices. (ANI) Irrfan Khan, one of India's most beloved and versatile actors, would have turned 58 today. Known for his nuanced performances and ability to transcend borders, Irrfan's career spanned both Bollywood and Hollywood, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of work. He passed away in 2020, but his films continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. In honour of his birth anniversary, let's take a look at some of his best performances that have made him a legend in the film industry. 1. Paan Singh Tomar (2012) Irrfan Khan's portrayal of the real-life athlete-turned-dacoit, Paan Singh Tomar, is considered one of his most iconic performances. The film, directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. Khan's ability to embody the complexity of his character -- from a decorated athlete to a man forced into a life of crime -- was truly mesmerizing. His transformation in this role remains one of his most remarkable achievements. 2. The Lunchbox (2013) This heartwarming romance, directed by Ritesh Batra, saw Irrfan in a subdued, yet deeply poignant role as Saajan Fernandes, a lonely office worker who forms an unlikely connection with a woman through a mistakenly delivered lunchbox. 'The Lunchbox' garnered international acclaim, and Irrfan's delicate performance made it a cult favourite. 3. Life of Pi (2012) Irrfan Khan made his mark in Hollywood with his role as the adult Pi Patel in Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi'. The film, based on Yann Martel's bestselling novel, went on to win multiple Academy Awards. Khan's performance as the narrator of Pi's extraordinary journey across the ocean was captivating, balancing the emotional depth of the character with a sense of mystery and wisdom. 4. Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Though his role in 'Slumdog Millionaire' was relatively brief, Irrfan Khan made a lasting impact. As the police inspector, he plays a crucial role in the journey of Jamal (played by Dev Patel). His performance added weight to the narrative, and his screen presence was magnetic, making him an integral part of this Oscar-winning film. Slumdog Millionaire marked a turning point for Irrfan, as it helped him gain recognition internationally. 5. Maqbool (2003) In 'Maqbool', a modern-day adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth, Irrfan Khan plays the title role of Maqbool, a loyal henchman who becomes consumed by power and ambition. Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, the film explored complex themes of betrayal, guilt, and moral conflict, and Irrfan's performance was both intense and layered. His portrayal of a man torn between loyalty and personal gain made Maqbool a standout film in his career. 6. Hindi Medium (2017) In this comedy-drama, Irrfan Khan played the role of Raj Batra, a man who is willing to go to any lengths to ensure his daughter gets the best education. Hindi Medium addressed the social divides in the education system, and Khan's natural comedic timing combined with his emotional depth made the film both entertaining and socially relevant. 7. Talvar (2015) In Talvar, based on the real-life Noida double murder case, Irrfan Khan played a CBI officer caught in the middle of a controversial investigation. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the film was a gripping courtroom drama, and Irrfan portrayed a calm yet determined investigator. His performance was praised for its subtlety, as he conveyed a range of emotions without overstating anything. 8. Qissa (2014) In Qissa, Irrfan Khan played Umber Singh, a man who, after the partition of India, raised his daughter as a son, reflecting his struggles with identity and gender. This film dealt with themes of personal and cultural identity, and Irrfan's powerful performance made it a standout. Irrfan Khan also gave some of the most memorable performances of his career through the movies including 'Jazbaa', 'Piku', 'Angrezi Medium': his last film, where he portrayed a father on a mission to fulfil his daughter's dreams. Irrfan Khan's contribution to cinema is unparalleled. From intense dramas to lighthearted comedies, he consistently demonstrated an incredible range and depth as an actor. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers alike. (ANI) Kangana Ranaut is coming up with her directorial 'Emergency', which focuses on the 21-month Emergency, imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977. However, ahead of the release, especially in 2024, the film faced several hiccups. It missed its September 6, 2024 release date as it was unable to obtain the clearance certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The movie also faced backlash from a couple of Sikh organisations who reportedly objected to its release and accused the makers of misrepresenting the facts. After months of struggles, Kangana-starrer 'Emergency' has got a green signal from CBFC. It is now all set to see the light of day with the release scheduled for January 17, 2025. Kangana is also now back on a promotion spree for the film. Speaking with ANI, she recalled the challenges she faced to bring her film to theatres. " Bhaut sangharsh raha...kaafi cheezo ka saamana karna pada (we faced a lot of challenges). It was not an easy ride...It was filled with several hardships...we had to show this film to so many communities. Our film was scrutinized on every single thing...after conquering all such obstacles, we have finally reached here. We have a lot of faith in our constitution, country, and the censor board which allows us today to make our film available for the audience. We are eagerly waiting to show the film to the world," Kangana shared. Kangana was even forced to sell off her property in Mumbai after the film's release was postponed. She never thought that she would battle such difficulties while creating a film. "I had no idea that I would endure difficult times while making this film.... usually, my films are made on a very comfortable budget but this time I faced a lot of struggles -- be it related to studios or funds. The biggest struggle was that no one was confident about the film's release. 'Will it ever get released or not?' This question was always there on our mind," Kangana recalled. Kangana's 'Emergency' is produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films. The movie also stars Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade and late Satish Kaushik. (ANI) On Tuesday, Alia took to Instagram and shared a couple of pictures from her working day. The first image shows Alia flaunting her makeup. "Back to the grind," she captioned the post. In another picture, Alia could be seen posing with her team. The caption of the second image read,"With my team behind." Meanwhile, on the acting front, Alia will be seen headlining spy drama 'Alpha' with Sharvari. Directed by Shiv Rawail, 'Alpha' is set to be a notable addition to Yash Raj Films' acclaimed spy universe. She is also set to appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming film 'Love and War,' which also stars Vicky Kaushal and Ranbir Kapoor. Alia Bhatt earlier collaborated with Bhansali in the 2022 drama Gangubai Kathiawadi. The film was officially announced in January 2024. The original announcement on Instagram read, "We Bring You Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Epic Saga 'Love & War.' See You At The Movies Christmas 2025." It was accompanied by the signatures of the lead trio, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. 'Love and War' is expected to go on floors in the coming months. (ANI) Hrithik Roshan debuted in Bollywood with the 2000 film 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' and now coming January 14, he will mark his 25th year as an actor in the Indian film industry. Interestingly, in a few days, on January 10, he will also turn a year older. This month is truly special for Hrithik and his fans. On Tuesday, Hrithik took some time off his schedule and met with members of Indian media in Mumbai. During his informal meeting, he expressed his gratitude to them for supporting him throughout his journey so far. In a heartfelt speech, Hrithik reflected on his career, thanking media for making him "responsible". "25 years! I remember 25 years back when 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' was releasing I was so shy and so anxious that I didn't do a single interview. I didn't step out of my house to do anything. I just skipped the entire promotional event... 25 years have passed and unfortunately, that side of me has not changed. I'm still as shy...This is really an excuse and an opportunity for me to say things to all of you that probably I have never said in 25 years," he said. "I truly think that you have helped me, all of you, have helped me become the human and the actor that I am in these 25 years through our interactions. Through all the questions and answers you have made me feel made me feel uncomfortable I grew with that. sometimes you made me feel responsible sometimes you made me feel accountable. Guys, not good for a shy guy! Guys, not good for a shy guy," Hrithik added. Hrithik's kind words for the media evoked a loud cheer from the members of the media who were present at an intimate bash organized by the actor to celebrate his 25 years in the industry. "You know, it is you speaking to them, telling them how to see me, and how to understand me. It is your perceptions that you shared with the world that taught them how to see me. Thank you for that. Thank you for making me, contributing so much to my journey," he concluded. Hrithik's debut film was directed by his father Rakesh Roshan. Now, after so many years, the film will be re-released in theatres on the occasion of Hrithik's birthday. (ANI) The Indian Army has mobilised a relief task force to rescue the trapped coal miners at Umrangshu area of the Dima Hasao district of Assam, according to an official press statement from the Indian Army. This comes after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma sought the Army's assistance in the ongoing rescue operation. As per the statement, the relief task force comprises specialists like divers, sappers and other relevant personnel with the necessary equipment. Senior officials of the Indian Army would also reach the incident site to coordinate with civil administration for speedy rescue of the trapped miners. The statement reads, "On being requisitioned for assistance Indian Army has mobilized a relief task force for rescuing the miners trapped in Umrangso, a remote industrial town in Dima Hasao district, Assam. 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." Earlier on Monday, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma informed that the rescue teams are on their way to Umrangshu in Dima Hasao district, where several labourers are trapped in a coal mine. Taking to X, Sarma said that the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are on their way to the mine site and the Army's assistance has been sought. Sarma said that the exact number of trapped labourers is unknown. "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 wrote on X. "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," he added. Earlier, Dima Hasao Superintendent of Police (SP) Mayank Kumar Jha said that several people were feared trapped inside the coal mine in Umrangshu of Assam's Dima Hasao district. "Several people feared trapped inside a coal mine in the Umrangso area in the Dima Hasao district. We can't say the exact figure as of now," he said. (ANI) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said the election commission will announce the dates for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections today. Kakkar stated the party is ready with all 70 candidates and Arvind Kejriwal as its CM face while criticising BJP and Congress for their lack of preparation. She expressed confidence in a fair election and predicted Kejriwal's re-election for a fourth term. Speaking to ANI, Kakkar said, "AAP is ready to go into the election. We have the CM face, and we have declared all 70 candidates. Contrary to that, the BJP and Congress aren't prepared. We hope that the Election Commission will conduct a free and fair election. The people will elect Arvind Kejriwal for the fourth time." Meanwhile, the BJP candidate from the Malviya Nagar Assembly constituency, Satish Upadhyay, asserted that the Election Commission of India would hold fair elections in the National Capital. BJP candidate from Kalkaji seat Ramesh Bidhuri said, "Naturally, people of Delhi want to get rid of 'AAP-da' as soon as possible... AAP is used to playing the victim card when they know they are being exposed... The CM (Atishi) is shedding crocodile tears but she should say, does she support her father's stand when he stood up in support of Afzal Guru?..." The Election Commission of India (ECI) will host a press conference today to announce the schedule for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. The press briefing is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM at the Plenary Hall, Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. AAP won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. Earlier, Aam Aadmi Party Chief Arvind Kejriwal claimed that "Large-Scale" fraud in voter addition and deletions in the New Delhi Assembly seat is taking place. In a post on X, Kejriwal cited a letter from Chief Minister Atishi sent to Delhi Chief Electoral Officer. "Large-scale fraud taking place in voter additions and deletions in the New Delhi assembly. Delhi CM Atishi ji writes this letter to CEC presenting evidence and seeking time to meet," he said. (ANI) The BJP candidate from Karol Bagh assembly constituency, Dushyant Gautam described the Aam Admi Party as a 'looteri' govt of Delhi ahead of the Election Commission's announcement of the dates for the Delhi assembly polls later in the day. The poll schedule for the Delhi assembly polls will be announced on Tuesday afternoon, as per the Election Commission of India. "We were waiting for this day. The Election Commission has continued to conduct the elections transparently. I hope that we will contest the elections with enthusiasm. All the people of Delhi are ready to get rid of the current 'looteri' govt of Delhi..." He said, "There is a need for change (in Government). Every person of Delh is ready to remove this Aapda sarkar." Regarding a query, he said, "AAP is staring at the defeat. Therefore, they are making excuses. Such people are engaged in mud-slinging." Hours ago, BJP's candidate from Ambedkar Nagar constituency Khushiram Chunar expressed confidence that the party would form the next government in Delhi while BJP candidate from Janakpuri seat Ashish Sood said that the elections will determine the future of Delhi as the Election Commission will announce the poll dates later in the day. "We are thinking about winning. We are winning from Ambedkar Nagar and will do the pending developmental works... This election will be in favour of the BJP ...," Chunar told ANI, alluding that the people will vote in favour of the BJP. "There is a wave of BJP, a storm is coming and BJP is going to form the next government in Delhi," he said. "This time, the party announced its tickets at the right time. Every party candidate will get ample time to put across their views among the public." Ashish Sood targeted the AAP and told ANI, "I thank the central leadership of the BJP that they chose me to deal with the 'AAPda' of Janakpuri. This election is being fought by the people of Delhi against dirty water, sewers... The elections will decide the direction of Delhi's future... The dates of the removal of Delhi's 'AAPda' will be announced today..." AAP won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. (ANI) Ahead of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) 2025, Prasanna Pradhan, Director of Biju Patnaik International Airport said that the security protocols had been enhanced at the airport for the conclave. Speaking to ANI, Pradhan said "We have enhanced our security protocols. We will welcome them with some different traditional decorations and cultural troops. The people from the tourism department will be there to welcome them. We are fully prepared to welcome our Pravasi Bharatiya people who are coming to attend this conclave..." Meanwhile, locals performed the Odisha folk dance Ghumura as they awaited the guests at the Biju Patnaik Airport for the PBD convention. 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. Earlier today, 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 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) Locals performed the traditional folk dance, Ghumura, at Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport to welcome guests for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention on Tuesday. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is set to take place from 8th to 10th January 2025 in the city. This year, the theme of the event is "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat." Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is celebrated once every two years to strengthen the engagement of the overseas Indian community with the Government of India and reconnect them with their cultural roots. January 9, commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915. To mark this day, the tradition of celebrating the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas started in 2003. 1st PBD Convention was organised on 9 January 2003 to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community to the development of India. Since 2015, under a revised format, the PBD Convention has been organised once every 2 years. Dhauha Gaida, winner of the Know India Quiz in the Foreign National category from Korea, expressed her excitement about her first visit to India saying, "It's actually my first time here in India but when I was young I watched a lot of Indian movies and also my sister studied here. India is so rich in culture - it's amazing. My favourite Indian food is curry, for sure. Because I like spicy food, even in my country, we eat a lot of spicy food. You can feel the smell and the taste and the way how they eat with their hands, we also eat with our hands too." A large number of Indian diaspora members from over 50 different countries have registered to participate in the PBD Convention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 18th PBD Convention in Bhubaneswar on January 9 at 10 am. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in the city on Monday to attend the event. (ANI) The police has been on the lookout for three more suspects in the case. The accused had looted gold jewelry by opening fire on an Angadiya businessman, as per the Mumbai Police. An officer said that in this case, MRA Marg police arrested one accused and the Crime Branch arrested the second accused. "The MRA MRG police arrested one accused and the Crime Branch had arrested the second accused," the officer said. Police have also recovered 90 percent of the stolen goods from these arrested accused. Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim's acquaintances had conspired to commit theft by opening fire. As soon as it was revealed that there were five accused in this conspiracy, two of them were arrested. The accused had fled with a bag full of valuables worth Rs 50 lakh. Further investigation is underway. (ANI) Tarsem Singh, father of 'Waris Punjab De' chief and independent MP Amritpal Singh, claimed on Tuesday that he and his family were placed under house arrest by Punjab Police. According to Tarsem Singh, the action was initiated after authorities received information suggesting his involvement in a protest organised by Quami Insaaf Morcha. Police personnel were reportedly deployed outside his residence, restricting the movement of all household members. Speaking to ANI, Tarsem Singh alleged, "Police have been deployed here, and I have been told that I have been placed under house arrest. On asking the police the reason behind it, I was told that this was done based on the information that I was going to take part in a protest by Quami Insaaf Morcha... All members of the household have been placed under house arrest... Punjab Police is doing this." However, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Arun Sharma said, "To ensure law and order stability, police have been deployed as per orders from senior officers. Family members of 'Waris Punjab De' chief Amritpal Singh, who reportedly joined the Quami Insaaf Morcha protest today, have all been placed under house arrest." Earlier, Tarsem Singh, the father of 'Waris Punjab De' Chief and independent MP Amritpal Singh, appealed to the people of Punjab to come in large numbers at the launch of the party on January 14 and said that the regional party will be for saving Punjab and 'path.'. "We appealed to the people of Punjab to come in large numbers to 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 that 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 that 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, and 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 before 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 organisation, 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 to take an oath as a Lok Sabha member. (ANI) Punjab police has dismantled a cross-border drug cartel that was operating with the help of drone technology to smuggle drugs from Pakistan. Punjab's Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, took to X to announce the breakthrough, revealing that the Amritsar Commissionerate Police arrested four individuals involved in the illegal trafficking operation. According to DGP Yadav, the arrested individuals were in contact with Pakistan-based smugglers who used drones to push narcotics across the India-Pakistan border. "In a major breakthrough, Amritsar Commissionerate Police has busted a cross-border drug cartel by arresting 4 accused who were in contact with #Pakistan-based smugglers using drones to push drugs across the border. 5 Kg Heroin recovered, and an FIR under the NDPS Act has been registered at PS Chheharta, Amritsar. Investigations are ongoing to trace backward and forward linkages," the DGP wrote in his post. Authorities have also registered an FIR under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at the Chheharta police station in Amritsar. Investigations are continuing, with Punjab Police working to trace both the "forward and backward linkages" of the cartel. Meanwhile, on January 5, in a crackdown against narco-drones, Border Security Force recovered a quadcopter (drone) from a sugarcane field along the border in Amritsar district, according to a press statement. A search based on specific input led to the recovery of 1 DJI Mavic 3 Classic drone from the sugarcane farming field adjacent to Ballaharwal village of district Amritsar, the statement said. Earlier, the Punjab Frontier of the Border Security Force in coordination with the Punjab Police, conducted a joint operation and recovered a drone along with two packets of heroin along the Tarn Taran border. The recoveries took place in two separate incidents and were based on actionable information received by the security personnel. In the first incident, security personnel recovered a drone along with a packet of suspected heroin weighing 562 grams from a farming field near the village of Dal in the Tarn Taran district, the release stated. (ANI) A clash broke out between police and miscreants in Phulwari Sharif of the Hinduni village of Patna on Tuesday where police had the input of some criminals who had gathered and were planning to commit a robbery. The police on the basis of the input went on the spot to catch the criminals and opened fire. Two criminals were gunned down while Superintendent of Police Vivek Singh was injured in the clash. The police upon identification of the criminals revealed that both of them belonged to Nalanda. The police has been verifying the history sheet of the criminals and has been on the lookout for more criminals involved. The dead body of the shot criminals was brought to Phulwari CHC Hospital for the post-mortem. Meanwhile SI Vivek Singh was admitted to AIIMS Patna for treatment, police officials said. An FSL team also arrived on the spot where the clash broke out. The FSL team has also been inspecting the incident site. Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Awkash Kumar and DIG STF Vivekanand arrived on the incident spot. Speaking to the media, Kumar said "In the last few months, there have been some incidents of house robbery in Patna... A team was formed for this purpose and an investigation was underway on the technical aspects... The names of some of the accused were revealed to us which were being monitored continuously. Yesterday, information was received that those criminals are gathering at a place with the intention of robbery. A team was formed to conduct raids and arrests... " Speaking about the firing, the SSP said that the injured policeman was being treated and has been declared stable. "When confronted with the perpetrators, the criminals started firing, in which one of our companions was shot. He is still being treated and is stable... The police retaliated. Two criminals were shot. They were taken for treatment where they were declared dead. We are taking legal action... One person and the one who was his driver have been arrested. We are questioning them..." Further investigation is underway. (ANI) Ahead of the announcement of the dates for the Delhi Assembly polls on Tuesday, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a critical meeting with farmers of Delhi in what was a reach out message by the BJP. The Agricultre Minister said that he has written a letter to Delhi Chief Minister Atishi over the non-implementation of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) in the national capital. "We purchase crops on MSP through the state governments. I recently called for a meeting of all agriculture ministers and Delhi does not have one. The 'PM Fasal Bima Yojana' is not implemented here," Chouhan said in a press conference. He lashed out at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi, saying that the state government has become a "tragedy (AAP-DA)" for farmers since they are unable to benefit from the schemes introduced by the central government. "The farmers of Delhi told me that they cannot avail of the welfare schemes offered by the centre because they have not been implemented in Delhi. I have written a letter to CM Atishi raising this concern. What is the problem? The Indian government is running schemes which are implemented with the help of state governments. Why are you not taking the money from the centre and giving it to the farmers? Your government has become an AAP-DA for farmers here since they are not getting any benefit," Chouhan said. The Union Minister further accused the AAP government of providing electricity to the farmers at increased prices. "They talk about free electricity but they are providing electricity to Delhi farmers at increased rates. Solar pump scheme has not been implemented here. I urge the Delhi government to implement farmer welfare schemes in Delhi which are being offered by the centre," Chouhan added. This comes after farmers of Delhi reached Chouhan's residence for a meeting. Meanwhile, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday, urged farmers protesting in Punjab to come forward for talks without conditions, stating that the central government has already extended an invitation for the dialogue amid ongoing farmers' protest. He pointed out that farmers didn't engage with the committee set up by the Supreme Court, highlighting the need for cooperation. The protest organised by the farmers of Punjab at the Khanauri border in Sangrur district, near the Haryana border, entered its 330th day on Tuesday. They have been protesting to press on their various demands including a law to guarantee the minimum support price (MSP). The concerns of the government have intensified after farm leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal fainted at the protest site earlier on the Khanauri border while being on a fast-unto-death since November 26 to press farmers' demands against the central government. (ANI) A bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal directed that Asaram shall not attempt to tamper with the evidence, and shall not meet his followers after he is released on interim bail. Three policemen will escort Asaram and they will not interfere in the treatment, the bench ordered. The bench noted that Asaram has various age-related health conditions and had two heart attacks. "We are inclined to grant bail to the petitioner on medical grounds by the end of March. The petitioner shall not make any attempt to tamper with the evidence, shall not meet his followers," the order stated. Asaram is serving a life imprisonment sentence at Jodhpur Central Jail. Approaching the apex court, Asaram has sought bail citing deteriorating health and the need for advanced medical treatment. Asaram also sought the suspension of the life imprisonment sentence imposed on him by a trial court in a rape case in Gujarat. A sessions court in Gandhinagar, Gujarat in January 2023 convicted Asaram under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in a 2013 rape of a female disciple at a Surat Ashram. In August, while hearing an appeal against the trial court verdict, the Gujarat High Court declined to suspend his life imprisonment sentence. Thereafter, Asaram moved to the top court seeking release from jail. (ANI) Samajwadi Party leader and Member of Parliament Akhilesh Yadav has strongly criticized the Uttar Pradesh government over the recent Sambhal incident, accusing the administration of orchestrating the violence and making wrongful arrests. Yadav emphasized that the incident was not a riot but a "well-coordinated" act planned by government officials. Speaking on the issue, Akhilesh Yadav said, "In the Sambhal incident, we initially wanted to send a delegation, which included the leaders of the opposition in both houses of UP, our state president, and several MLAs and MPs. But the government imposed a ban, and the police administration did not allow the delegation to go. However, they were allowed the second time, which raises the question of why they were not allowed earlier, and what the administration was hiding there." Yadav further alleged that false charges were pressed against the victims, leading to wrongful arrests and unjust treatment. "The people who lost their lives did so due to the police's gunfire. This was not a riot but a well-coordinated incident," he stated. The former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh also described the suffering of those arrested in connection with the incident, claiming that they were subjected to immense pressure to give false statements. He added, "The people who went to jail faced a great injustice. They suffered injuries on their bodies that no one can imagine, and they are under pressure to give statements that the administration desires." After a visit to the area, Yadav claimed that officers responsible for the violence were suspended, adding to his criticism of the BJP. "This BJP is a divisive party; for them, humanity has no value because they engage in this kind of politics. The BJP is a heartless party," he said. He also accused the BJP of covering up corruption within its ranks and orchestrating incidents like Sambhal to distract from internal issues. "There is no justice in this government. The BJP has two major issues: one is the injustice against PDA (Public Display of Affection) and the other is corruption," Yadav stated. (ANI) Gujarat, renowned for its milk revolution, has also harnessed the potential of cattle for sustainable energy. Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin initiative of the government of India, more than 7,400 individual biogas plants have been established in the last two years through the Gobardhan scheme in Gujarat. With the state government's active involvement and the central scheme's robust framework, biogas plants are not only addressing waste management issues but have also replaced traditional cooking fuels such as firewood, reducing indoor air pollution and respiratory diseases in villages like Mandli, located in Limkheda Tehsil of Dahod. Moreover, the by-product, the organic slurry, serves as a high-quality fertilizer, enhancing agricultural productivity. "This scheme has been really beneficial for us. We are relieved due to this. We earlier needed firewood to cook. And also we don't need to get gas cylinders refilled, which cost us around 1500 rupees for two months. In farming as well, we don't need to get chemical fertilizers. This biogas plant has been beneficial for us. We can now create our own manure and fertilizer to be used for farming," Pushpa Patel, a resident of Mandli village said. Kiran Kumar Patel, Sarpanch of Mandli, said "After installing this biogas plant, the expense of refilling LPG gas cylinders has been reduced. And in our farmland, we do natural farming, it is also beneficial there as it is used as manure. We no longer have to bring forest wood to cook in our kitchen. We can cook a minimum of five people's meals daily with this biogas." The families receive financial aid covering nearly 90% of the installation cost, making it affordable even for low-income households. Additionally, local self-help groups and NGOs have played a pivotal role in mobilizing communities and ensuring the scheme's success. Utsav Gautam, District Development Officer of Dahod, informed "Each biogas plant costs around 46,000-47,000 rupees. The government of India provides Rs 25,000 under SBM-Gramin and Rs 16,000 is funded through MGNREGA. So 41,000 is paid by the government. And 5,000 rupees is paid by the beneficiary individually. The government has kept this amount because, in this way, the beneficiary takes responsibility for the plant and takes good care of it. It creates a sense of ownership and responsibility." As part of the mission, awareness campaigns and training programs have educated villagers on operating and maintaining biogas plants effectively. Virabhai Dabhi, Consultant, SBM-G & DRDA in Dahod said "We set a target of 200. So in our Dahod district, nine villages in Limkheda Tehsil were selected. We have set up biogas plants in a total of nine villages here. We spread awareness on how the expenses of 1000-1500 Rs on LPG gas will stop with these biogas plants. We also told them that the smoke that emanates from firewood, and the health issues it has, we also spread awareness about that." Gujarat's journey with biogas plants underscores the transformative power of integrated schemes and grassroots participation. The success of biogas plants in Gujarat sets a precedent for other states to emulate. The model not only aligns with the vision of a clean and green India but also addresses the global call for sustainable development. (ANI) Following the discovery of two suspected cases in Nagpur, Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif said there is no need to panic but children and elderly with co-morbid conditions need to stay alert. Speaking at a meeting organized over the HMPV virus, Mushrif said, "The effect of the HMPV virus is being seen in many countries of the world. There is no need to panic. Out of the 5 patients, one patient has been discharged. The remaining patients are recovering. Children and elderly with co-morbid conditions need to stay alert." On this occasion, Additional Chief Secretary of Medical Education Department Dinesh Waghmare, Commissioner Rajiv Nivatkar, Director Dr Ajay Chandanwale, Director of AYUSH Department Dr Raman Ghungralkar along with deans of all government medical colleges in the state were present through the video conferencing. On Monday, Hasan Mushrif, while interacting with the media said that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that HMPV cases have been found in some states. The citizens of our state should not panic because the government will soon issue comprehensive guidelines regarding this situation and take preventive measures to control this disease. "All the principals should be prepared for possible situations with medicines, oxygen and isolation if necessary. They should contact the District Collector of the concerned district for additional and abundant medicines," he said. Minister Mushrif also instructed that everyone should make a joint effort to prevent the spread of this disease in the state and principals should be vigilant and cancel the leave of their officers and employees. He has appealed to the citizens to follow the guidelines and create awareness about this disease among people. As part of preventive measures and precautions, the Health Department has appealed to the citizens to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue while coughing or sneezing. Patients should consult a doctor if they have symptoms like fever, cough or cold. Meanwhile, five cases of HMPV have been reported in the country, with two cases in Bengaluru, one in Ahmedabad, and two suspected cases in Nagpur. HMPV is a virus that has been associated with respiratory illnesses. However, there has been no unusual surge in cases in India. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party leader Baijayant Jay Panda on Tuesday exuded confidence of winning the Delhi Assembly elections and said that the people of the national capital want a "conflict-free government". "BJP is fully ready. We have been preparing for several months. The people of Delhi have made up their minds. They have given 15 years to Congress, and in the last 10 years, they have given a chance to this disaster (AAP government) which has been giving false promises for 3 times in a row...Now the people of Delhi have decided they must give a chance to BJP. They see the progress in other parts of the country and they want to see the same in Delhi. They want a conflict-free government in Delhi," Panda told ANI. Union Minister Harsh Malhotra said that the AAP government will lose polls. "People of Delhi will get a BJP Chief Minister on 8th February. AAP government will be removed from power," said Malhotra, who is Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Earlier, Union Health Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party chief JP Nadda welcomed the Election Commission declaring dates of Delhi polls. He urged the people of Delhi to choose a government that focuses on providing quality services to make everyday life easier. "I welcome the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Delhi Assembly Elections. Elections are the biggest festival of democracy. They are a medium to keep the country and the state advancing on the path of development and good governance. I urge the people of Delhi to choose a government that focuses on improving the standard of living, combating corruption, reducing pollution and providing quality services to make everyday life easier," Nadda said in a post on X. "Under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi ji, the BJP government has been continuously working towards the comprehensive development of Delhi and will further our efforts to turn the dream of a 'Viksit Delhi' into a reality," he added. Delhi will go to the polls on February 5 and votes will be counted on February 8. With the announcement of the election dates, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into force in the national capital. (ANI) The 63rd ITBP Raising Day Ceremony was celebrated in Khorda on Tuesday, featuring a parade. ITBP jawans showcased their skills during demonstrations for rescue operations and counter-terrorism actions. Minister of State for Home Affairs Union minister Nityanand Rai participated in the program and said ITBP jawans have made great contributions for the country. "The borders of our country, especially those covered in snow and high peaks of cold regions, are kept safe by the relentless efforts of our young jawans. They work in extreme conditions, with temperatures plunging to minus 50 degrees, yet their determination, courage, and commitment ensure our nation's security. The entire country takes pride in the efforts of the ITBP," said Union Minister. Nityanand Rai added "The ITBP enjoys the trust of the Prime Minister, the confidence of the Home Minister, and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the borders of our country. Today, on the founding day of the ITBP, we celebrate its unwavering success. When an enemy faces the ITBP, they lack the courage to challenge it. I wish continued success for the ITBP in the years to come." Rai further stated, "By 2047, under the vision of our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, India will emerge as a developed nation. In this prosperous India, every individual should be regarded as the world's best, and the safety of our borders must remain inviolable." The Union Minister emphasized that a nation's security is deeply rooted in internal peace, stressing that progress can only be achieved through this sense of peace. He commended the ITBP and other Central Armed Police Forces for their unwavering commitment to realizing India's vision of becoming a developed nation under PM Modi's leadership. "A nation is truly secure only when it enjoys internal peace. It is with this sense of peace that we can drive forward progress. The ITBP, along with all other institutions of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), is steadfastly committed to realizing India's vision of becoming a developed nation under the Prime Minister's leadership. The ITBP has made significant contributions to this cause and continues to work with unwavering determination to ensure India's bright and secure future," he said. (ANI) In a significant ceremony at the Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy (SKPA) in Udhampur, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the attestation-cum-passing-out parade of the 16th batch of Deputy Superintendents of Police on Tuesday. According to statement issued, the event marked the successful completion of rigorous training for 61 probationary officers, comprising 45 male and 16 female officers, who took their oath to serve with dedication and honesty. During his address, LG Sinha emphasized the crucial role of the Jammu and Kashmir Police in maintaining peace and security in the J&K. He paid tribute to the police personnel who made supreme sacrifices in the line of duty and commended the force's unwavering commitment to protecting citizens. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that J&K Police's responsibilities extend beyond counter-terrorism operations to include coordinated efforts with other security forces in maintaining law and order. Sinha particularly stressed the emerging challenges in modern policing, especially in the domain of cybercrime. He noted that criminals are constantly evolving their methods, making it imperative for police officers to stay updated with digital investigation techniques. The LG emphasized the need for quick response mechanisms to counter the spread of misinformation on social media platforms and various applications, highlighting how technical tools are being employed to combat these challenges. Addressing the issue of militancy, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized a comprehensive approach to security. He stressed that the police force's duty goes beyond confrontation with militants to include dismantling their entire ecosystem and support network. Sinha highlighted narco-terrorism as another significant challenge, emphasizing the mission to protect youth from drug abuse. The Lieutenant Governor also addressed the challenge of separatism, noting that responsibility extends not only to dealing with militants but also to those who support and encourage militancy. He urged the newly commissioned officers to remember their training and perform their duties with utmost sincerity and dedication, keeping in mind the evolving nature of security challenges in the region. The ceremony concluded with LG Sinha taking the Rashtriya Salute and inspecting the parade, followed by an impressive march passed by both men and women contingents. The event marked a significant milestone in the careers of these young officers who will now take up their roles in maintaining law and order in Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI) Maharashtra Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde on Tuesday outlined plans to address dust particles, reduce pollution indices, and coordinate with the Centre to tackle pollution in the state. Speaking at the press conference here today, Munde highlighted that a 100-day action plan, directed by the Chief Minister, includes forming a task force with key departments like transport and medical to combat the crisis. "Today, we held a very important meeting on Mumbai pollution. We discussed what we are doing for dust particles. The environment is the future; it should be clean. The Chief Minister of the state has asserted a 100-day plan and it is being prepared. We are preparing a task force, which will also include departments like transport and medical," she said. "We are currently in the 100-200 range (AQI level), and we are looking at how to reduce it. Excavation work is being done and its effect is visible. The weather is cold. We are taking measures to reduce pollution to a minimum. We are contacting different departments. We will try to reduce it by the third week of February. We recently met the Union Environment Minister," the Maharashtra Minister added. Pankaja Munde, further emphasized that they will coordinate with the Center on the issue. "Pollution is an issue in the zone. We have already taken a strict stand regarding plastic which is harmful. We are making an online app, telling citizens to take photos and geo-tag them," she said. On January 3, amid rising pollution in the Indrayani River, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis instructed the industries to make sure that no effluent goes into the river and said that the work to clean the Indrayani river is underway. Speaking to reporters, the Maharashtra CM said that the cleaning work of the Indrayani river is going on. "The Indrayani River cannot be cleaned in one day. The water from the villages, cities and industries goes to the Indrani river. We have started the clarification of this water before releasing it in the Indrayani River. We are arranging the funds for Nagar Palikas and Mahanagar Palika for this. We have also instructed industries to make sure that no influent goes in the river," Fadnavis said in Pune. (ANI) The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal announced major initiatives to boost the capacity at Kandla Port worth an investment of more than Rs 57,000 crores on Tuesday. The two major announcements include the construction of a new Mega Shipbuilding Project with an investment of Rs 30,000 crores. The other major announcement is the development of a new cargo terminal outside of Kandla Creek at an investment of 27,000 crores which will add an additional 135 MTPA capacity to the Kandla Port. Sonowal said that these capacity expansions at Kandla Port are the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India, Make for the World' vision. As per the Ministry of Port Shipping and Waterways, The new Mega Shipbuilding Facility at the Kandla Port will develop technical capability in the country to manufacture big Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) or similar class of vessels with a capacity of up to 3,20,000 tonnes DWT. The facility will have the capacity to produce 32 new ships and repair 50 old ships every year. Spread over an area of more than 8,000 acres, the new facility will have components like Marina, Fishing Harbour, Townships and Marine Industrial Cluster. The project is likely to unlock tremendous value for trade interests as well as employment avenues in the region, especially in the ancillary manufacturing and assembly units to come and operate in the cluster. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "We are excited at the possibilities that this new investment is likely to bring towards contributing meaningfully towards Viksit Bharat. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, we are working towards building capacities in our country which will not only propel the growth proposition but also allow it to become a platform of production for the world at large. "The new shipbuilding facility at Kandla is a manifestation of the 'Make In India, Make for the World' vision of our beloved leader Narendra Modi ji," he added. On the other hand, in an attempt to restructure the Port, a new state-of-the-art port is being developed outside of Kandla Creek, towards Tuna. This new port will be developed using the 6 km available waterfront. With an investment of Rs 27,000 crores, an additional capacity of 135 MTPA will be developed to the existing capacity of Kandla port. The new port will handle all existing cargo jetties handling dry bulk cargo, with modern cargo handling equipment and more efficient evacuation systems. This will allow Kandla to be converted into Liquid Jetties, hence, building tremendous scope to handle liquid cargo. This will tremendously improve the waiting of Liquid Tanker Vessels and improve the Turnaround time of liquid vessels. Considering the new port's proximity to the navigation channel, the dredging requirement will come down considerably, allowing bigger vessels to dock here. Speaking further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Ports are critical hubs for the nation's economy, serving as vital links to support growth and drive economic development. Enhancing capacity in port infrastructure is essential to meet our expanding ambitions. The new facility at Kandla Port will not only significantly augment its operations but also enhance efficiency through the segregation of dry and liquid cargo. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is steadfastly progressing towards becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat by 2047. Ports are pivotal to this journey, and it is our responsibility to contribute towards this vision and work diligently to make it a reality." The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) has also been working on several other projects in mission mode to enhance the capacity of Kandla Port significantly. A new mega cargo terminal, with a capacity of 2.19 million TEU, is being constructed at Tuna Tekra under PPP mode. A new Multi Cargo Terminal at Tuna Tekra is also under consideration. This will add 18.33 MTPA to the existing capacity. Three new oil jetties are in the process of being constructed, which will further add 10 MTPA capacity. One Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) and 2 product jetties are also being constructed at Vadinar. This will further shore up the liquid cargo handling capacity by 24.5 MTRA. A Ship Repair Facility project at Vadinar is also under consideration which will be capable of servicing 32 vessels per year. (ANI) U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Jan. 5, 2025. [Photo/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. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed "joy" over the NTPC Green Energy Limited Green Hydrogen Hub Project in Andhra Pradesh of which he will lay the foundation stone on January 8. In a post on X, PM Modi said that tomorrow and the day after, he will be in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha to attend key programmes. "These include the inauguration and laying of foundation stones for various development works in Visakhapatnam and the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar," he said. "I look forward to being among the people of Visakhapatnam to inaugurate key works linked to green energy, renewable energy, infrastructure and more. It is a matter of great joy that the foundation stone for the NTPC Green Energy Limited Green Hydrogen Hub Project will be laid, making it the first such hub under the National Green Hydrogen Mission," PM Modi added. As per the release, the project entails an investment of approx. Rs 1,85,000 Crore. This will include investment in 20 GW renewable energy capacities, making it one of India's largest integrated green hydrogen production facilities with a capacity of producing 1500 TPD Green Hydrogen and 7500 TPD Green Hydrogen derivatives including Green Methanol, Green Urea and Sustainable Aviation Fuel, primarily targeting the export market. The project will contribute substantially to achieving India's non-fossil energy capacity target of 500 GW by 2030. Prime Minister Modi will also dedicate to the nation, lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various railway and road projects worth over Rs 19,500 crore in Andhra Pradesh which includes the foundation stone laying of South Coast Railway Headquarters at Visakhapatnam among various other projects. These projects will reduce congestion, improve connectivity and enhance regional social and economic growth. Furthering his vision of accessible and affordable healthcare, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation for the Bulk Drug Park at Nakkapalli in the Anakapalli district. Prime Minister will also lay the Foundation Stone of Krishnapatnam Industrial Area (KRIS City) under Chennai Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, in Tirupati District of Andhra Pradesh. PM Modi will also inaugurate the 18th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) convention at Bhubaneswar, Odisha on January 9 at 10 AM. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is the flagship event of the Government of India that provides an important platform to connect and engage with the Indian diaspora and enable them to interact with each other. The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is being organized in partnership with the State Government of Odisha from January 8 to 10 in Bhubaneswar. The theme of this PBD Convention is "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat". A large number of Indian diaspora members from over 50 different countries have registered to participate in the PBD Convention. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the issue of custody of a four-year-old child of Atul Subhash, Bengaluru techie who died by suicide in 2024, could be raised before the court conducting the trial. A bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and N Kotiswar Singh refused to give techie's minor son's custody to the grandmother saying there is a separate procedure for it. The bench while hearing a habeas corpus plea filed by Subhash's mother Anju Devi seeking the custody of her grandson remarked that she was a "stranger to the child". "Sorry to say but the child is a stranger to the petitioner. If you wish, please visit the child. In case you want the custody of the child, there is a separate procedure," said the apex court. The 34-year-old Subhash was found hanging at his house in Bengaluru's Munnekolalu on December 9, 2024, leaving behind video and written notes, alleging harassment by his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania, and his in-laws. Later they were arrested on charges of abetting Subhash's suicide and granted conditional bail on Saturday. During the hearing today, Singhania's counsel told the bench child was studying at a boarding school in Faridabad, Haryana. "Yesterday, the mother reached Faridabad and took custody of the child from boarding school. We will take the child to Bengaluru. The mother has to remain in Bengaluru to fulfil the bail conditions," her counsel told the bench. The counsel of the child's grandmother told the apex court that a child below six years of age should not be sent to a boarding school. He said the grandmother last met her grandson when he was 2.5 years old and stressed that custody be given to Devi. "Don't expect the child will be comfortable with you. The child has to be with his parents. If not both, then at least one parent," observed the bench. The bench said the case couldn't be decided based on a media trial. "It's not a media trial. It's a court trial which can pronounce a person guilty," added the top court while posting the matter for hearing on January 20. (ANI) Haryana Minister and BJP leader Ranbir Singh Gangwa on Tuesday expressed confidence that the BJP will form the next government in Delhi, following the announcement of the Delhi Assembly poll dates. The BJP leader said that the party will form government in Delhi, just the way it formed governments in Maharashtra, Haryana and in the Lok Sabha elections. Gangwa alleged that the corruption scandals surrounding Arvind Kejriwal and his party have led the people of Delhi to opt for a "double-engine" government in the national capital. He also pointed out the significance of the poll dates, noting they coincide with the dates when the BJP secured its third consecutive victory in Haryana. Speaking to ANI, Ranbir Gangwa said, "The dates for the Delhi Assembly polls were announced today. The atmosphere around shows that the BJP will form the government in Delhi. Just the way, the BJP formed the government in Haryana, Maharashtra, in the Lok Sabha polls earlier, it will form the government in Delhi as well." "Arvind Kejriwal and his leaders were caught in corruption and that is why the people of Delhi have decided to bring a double-engine government in the national capital. The dates chosen by the ECI are also special because these are the same dates when BJP formed the government in Haryana for the third consecutive time," said Gangwa. Meanwhile, Delhi BJP MP Yogender Chandolia also spoke to ANI on the election dates for the assembly polls and said, "AAP government will be removed by people, they have failed to deliver. BJP will get more than 52 seats and our government will be formed." Earlier, Union Health Minister and BJP chief JP Nadda welcomed the Election Commission declaring dates of Delhi polls. He urged the people of Delhi to choose a government that focuses on providing quality services to make everyday life easier. "I welcome the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Delhi Assembly Elections. Elections are the biggest festival of democracy. They are a medium to keep the country and the state advancing on the path of development and good governance. I urge the people of Delhi to choose a government that focuses on improving the standard of living, combating corruption, reducing pollution and providing quality services to make everyday life easier," Nadda said in a post on X. "Under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi ji, the BJP government has been continuously working towards the comprehensive development of Delhi and will further our efforts to turn the dream of a 'Viksit Delhi' into a reality," he added. Delhi will go to the polls on February 5 and votes will be counted on February 8. With the announcement of the election dates, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into force in the national capital. (ANI) A Cabinet meeting was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav at Mantralaya in the state capital Bhopal on Tuesday and the council of ministers granted in-principle approval for the launch of the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Shakti Mission. The mission will officially launch on January 12, 2025, commemorating Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary (National Youth Day). The initiative aims to foster youth-oriented activities and consolidate them into a coordinated platform for the socio-economic development of the state's youth. According to an official release, during the 2024 Independence Day celebrations, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced the implementation of four key missions in the state: Annadaata (Kisan) Kalyan, Yuva Shakti, Nari Shakti, and Garib Kalyan. Aligned with the vision, the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Shakti Mission aims to create a partnership platform to coordinate youth-oriented activities, fostering the state's holistic development. Its primary objectives are to build self-confidence among the youth, enhance skills and prepare them for competitive challenges. Also, to promote activities that develop and showcase their talents. The mission focuses on three main components: Dialogue, Ability, and Prosperity, designed to ensure a holistic approach to empowering the youth, the release read. The Swami Vivekananda Yuva Shakti Mission has outlined three key goals to empower the youth. The first goal is to ensure that the income level of every youth meets or exceeds the rate of a minimum-skilled category worker. Second is striving to ensure that every youth completes education up to Class 12. The third goal is to encourage youth participation in social initiatives for the betterment of society. The mission aims for 70 percent participation by the year 2030, it added. Additionally, to strengthen the cooperative system and expand the reach of the Sanchi brand under the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Department, the Cabinet approved a collaboration agreement between the MP State Cooperative Dairy Federation Ltd., associated milk unions, and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). This initiative aims to double the income of milk producers in Madhya Pradesh and promote milk production. Under the collaboration agreement between the MP State Cooperative Dairy Federation Limited and the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), collection centers will be established in every Gram Panchayat to ensure fair pricing for milk producers. Milk unions' processing capacity will be expanded. Approximately Rs 1,500 crore will be invested over the next five years. The number of milk committees will increase from 6,000 to 9,000. Daily milk collection will grow from 10.5 lakh kg to 20 lakh kg. Annual income for milk producers is targeted to rise from Rs 1,700 crore to Rs 3,500 crore. Efforts will be made to promote the Sanchi brand at the national level, stated the release. (ANI) After the Centre approved the site for a memorial for former President Pranab Mukherjee, BJP leader NV Subhash said that the step is a slap on the face of the Congress as it consistently ignored its leaders. Speaking to ANI, Subhash, who is also the grandson of former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, said that by this step, Prime Minister Narendra Modi showed his statesmanship. "By giving the Cabinet approval for the construction of the memorial at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi has shown his statesmanship by recognising the contributions made by people from different political parties. The Congress party has consistently ignored its leaders who have sacrificed their entire lives for the benefit of the party. Pranab Mukherjee and PV Narasimha Rao are both stalwarts of the Congress party and without them, the party would have fallen apart...They (Congress) have belittled the contributions of Pranab Mukherjee and PV Narasimha Rao...This is a slap on the face of the Congress party and they have to answer now," NV Subhash said. Meanwhile, the Centre has sanctioned a dedicated site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex, located in the Rajghat precinct, to establish a memorial honouring former President Pranab Mukherjee. Pranab Mukherjee's daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee posted on X about her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Called on PM Narendra Modi ji to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his government's decision to create a memorial for Baba. It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it. Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM," she said. "Baba used to say that State honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour Baba's memory. It doesn't affect Baba where he is now- beyond applause or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy," Mukherjee added. (ANI) According to an official release, Speaker Om Birla will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on 10 January 2025 in Guernsey during his visit. He will chair this meeting in his capacity as the host of the 28th CSPOC which will be held in India in 2026. He will also meet his counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of this meeting. Before this conference, Birla is visiting the UK from January 7-9 2025 at the invitation of Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons of Parliament of the UK. He will meet Lindsay Hoyle and Lord McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London. Among his other engagements in London, Om Birla will visit Dr BR Ambedkar Museum, pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and interact with members of Indian diaspora in the UK. Birla will also visit Scotland and meet Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament and John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. He will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday asked Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to ensure 100 per cent implementation of the new criminal laws in all the seven commissionerates of Uttar Pradesh by March 31 and in the entire state as soon as possible. Shah's direction came while reviewing a meeting with Uttar Pradesh CM here in the national capital on the implementation of three new criminal laws in the state. The laws are Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023; and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023. The seven police commissionerate in UP are- Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Prayagraj and Varanasi. The Home Minister asked the Uttar Pradesh CM to review the progress of implementation of these new criminal laws in February and implement them fully in the state as soon as possible. He further advised the Uttar Pradesh CM to review the progress of implementation of the three new laws every 15 days and the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police once a week with officials of all the departments concerned. Shah said that the full implementation of new criminal laws in states with large populations like Uttar Pradesh will send a positive message across the entire country. Emphasizing the need to increase the use of technology, the Home Minister said that there should be more than one forensic mobile van available in every district of Uttar Pradesh. He also mentioned that forensic teams should be divided into three categories - serious, common, and very common - so that resources and experts can be used more efficiently and serious cases can be given priority. Shah also said that there should be regular and continuous monitoring of how many of the total registered Zero FIRs have been transferred to the respective states. The implementation and current status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution and forensics in Uttar Pradesh were also reviewed in the meeting. Senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Uttar Pradesh Government, including Union Home Secretary, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) and the Director General of the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) were present in the meeting. During the discussion in the meeting, the Home Minister said that the three new criminal laws brought under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi are not punishment-oriented but victim-centric and their aim is to ensure speedy justice. (ANI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took a jibe at AAP Chief Arvind Kejriwal and said that his only interest left in Delhi is to see the 'Sheesh Mahal'. Speaking to the media in the national capital, CM Himanta said that all the Chief Ministers should be given a chance to see the 'Sheesh Mahal' once. "I believe that the 'Sheesh Mahal' should be declared a national museum and we should also get a chance to see it once. So that I can see if we can make a replica of the 'Sheesh Mahal' in Assam as well. The only interest I have left in Delhi is the 'Sheesh Mahal'. I went to see the Mohalla clinic once or twice but there is nothing to see. First, I thought it would be a replica of the Taj Mahal. Now I feel that the only thing Kejriwal ji has made in Delhi is the 'Sheesh Mahal' and I have a desire to see it once. I will try to go there once whenever I get a chance. I request all the CMs should be given a chance to see the 'Sheesh Mahal' once," the Assam CM said. On Monday, BJP MP Sambit Patra condemned Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal for the alleged 'scam' of renovating the 'Sheesh Mahal,' the official residence of the former Chief Minister. According to Patra, the report details that the original estimate for renovating the bungalow in 2020 was supposed to be Rs 7.62 crore, whereas when the tender was released, the cost rose up by around 13 pc to Rs 8.62 crore. However, he further revealed that after the completion of the project, the cost had risen by 342.31 pc, to Rs 33.66 crore. 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) The Supreme Court on Tuesday observed that state governments seem to have money to provide freebies to people but they claim a financial crunch when it comes paying salary and pension to judges of the district judiciary. A bench of Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih gave the reference of "Ladli-Behna yojna" by the Maharashtra government and the recent promises made by various political parties ahead of the upcoming assembly polls in Delhi. It said, "The states have all the money for the people who don't do any work. When you talk about financial constraints we also have to look at this. Come elections you declare Ladli Behana yojna and other new schemes where you pay fixed amounts," the bench remarked. It said in Delhi ahead of elections, some political parties have announced that they will pay Rs 2500 if they come to power. The apex court made the remarks as Attorney General for India R Venkataramani said the government has to consider financial constraints when deciding the pay and retirement benefits of judicial officers. The top court was hearing case filed by the All India Judges Association relating to the implementation of the Second National Judicial Pay Commission. (ANI) As the Election Commission announced February 5 as the voting date for the Delhi Assembly elections, BJP candidate from Malviya Nagar, Satish Upadhyay, expressed gratitude to the Commission and assured that the people of Delhi are eager to replace the "corrupt" AAP government from the national capital. Speaking to ANI, Satish Upadhyay said, "We thank the Election Commission for announcing the date. The people of Delhi are waiting to remove the corrupt AAP government and the BJP government will definitely be formed." BJP National Spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari took a dig at the AAP government in the state and said, "The people of Delhi have decided and made up its mind to choose development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and remove AAPda from Delhi." "The ECI has announced the dates and exposed the lies, propaganda, strategy that was brewing against the polling body, ECMs and voting percentage. We are assured that the we (BJP) will go to the public and put forth out welfare schemes in front of them. The public will vote against the corruption, pollution, poor roads and the 50 crore Sheesh Mahal in the national capital and will vote for the BJP," said Bhandari. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla also spoke to ANI on the announcement of the poll dates and said, "I thank the Election Commission for announcing the dates. February 5 and 8 are important dates. Delhites have made a mind to remove the AAPda from the government. This is an AAPda of corruption, Yamuna pollution, the public has made its mind to remove it from power." The BJP leader also took a dig at the Congress and AAP for levelling allegations over the EVMs and the polling body and said, "Attacking and blaming the EVM and Election Commission is just an excuse, Rahul Gandhi wants to only save the party from losing. That is why they think that the EVMs and polling body are okay in Wayanad, Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, but then in Maharashtra and Haryana they have issues. If Congress is bade miyan, then AAP is the chote miyan. They always insult the constitutional positions, it has become their habit." Meanwhile, AAP national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday exuded confidence in winning the Delhi Assembly elections, saying that with full strength and enthusiasm, AAP workers are ready for the polls. The Election Commission of India announced the dates for polls to the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The elections will be held in a single phase on February 5, while the counting of votes will take place on February 8. "The date of the election has been announced. All the workers are ready to enter the fray with full strength and enthusiasm. You are our biggest strength. This election will be between the politics of work and the politics of abuse. The people of Delhi will have faith in our politics of work. We will definitely win," Kejriwal wrote on X. The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for polls to the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The elections will be held in a single phase on February 5, while the counting of votes will take place on February 8. The last date of filing nominations is January 17. The date for scrutiny of nominations is January 18. While last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 20. With the announcement of the election dates, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has come into force in the national capital and will remain in force till the completion of the election process. The final voter list published on January 6, 2025 for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections recorded a total of 1,55,24,858 registered voters in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, showing a net increase of 1.09 per cent. As the elections approach, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its campaign. The BJP candidates have targeted Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his alleged involvement in the Delhi Excise Policy case and expressed confidence in forming the next government with a "double engine" administration. The BJP has accused the AAP leaders of corruption and misgovernance while the AAP, which is aiming to come to power for the third consecutive time, is focusing on highlighting its achievements in the education and health sector. In the race for the New Delhi seat, the BJP has fielded Parvesh Verma, former MP and son of former Delhi CM Sahib Singh Verma, to challenge Arvind Kejriwal. The Congress has also entered the fray with Sandeep Dikshit, son of former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dixit, from the same seat. The BJP has fielded former MP Ramesh Bidhuri against Delhi CM Atishi in the Kalkaji seat while the Congress has fielded former MLA Alka Lamba. The Congress, which was in power for 15 consecutive years in Delhi, has suffered setbacks in the last two assembly elections and has failed to win any seat. In contrast, the AAP dominated the 2020 assembly elections by winning 62 out of 70 seats while the BJP got only eight seats. (ANI) You are here: China A Long March-3B rocket carrying a test satellite, Shijian-25, blasts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Jan. 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua] China successfully sent a test satellite, Shijian-25, into space on Tuesday morning, using a Long March-3B rocket for the launch. The rocket blasted off at 4:00 a.m. (Beijing Time) from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwestern Sichuan Province, bringing the payload into the preset orbit later. The satellite is primarily used for the verification of satellite fuel replenishment and life extension service technologies, according to the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, the Shijian-25's developer. The launch marked China's first rocket launch in 2025 and the 555th mission of Long March series carrier rockets. A scuffle broke out between Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) workers and Youth Congress members in front of Gandhi Bhavan in Telangana's Hyderabad on Tuesday. Youth Congress members had staged a protest outside the BJP office over party leader Ramesh Bidhuri's purported statement against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra when the scuffle broke out prompting police to detain BJYM workers. BJYM leader Nithin alleged that Youth Congress members vandalised BJP's office and said that they would give a "befitting reply." "Rahul Gandhi talks about the Constitution always, I want to ask him if his Constitution to vandalise someone's office. Today, Youth Congress leaders entered the BJP office and attacked our workers. We will give a befitting reply to them now," Nithin said. Bidhuri, a former MP, who is contesting Delhi assembly polls from the Kalkaji constituency, has apologised for his remarks on Priyanka Gandhi. Earlier, 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 in the national capital. Speaking to ANI, Bidhuri referred to remarks made by RJD supremo Lalu Yadav in the past and said Congress had remained silent then. "Such remarks 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 government. If anyone is hurt by my remark, I express regret over it and I take my words back," the BJP leader said. Bidhuri, who is no stranger to controversy, had also commented about Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, who is also contesting from Kalkaji constituency. "Atishi, who was Marlena, is now Singh. She has even changed her father," he said, addressing a gathering. The battle between the Congress, AAP, and BJP has become intense with allegations and counter-allegations flying thick and fast. AAP won 62 out of the 70 seats in the 2020 assembly elections and BJP secured eight seats. (ANI) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel attended the 'Pride of Ahmedabad' award ceremony organised by the Indian Red Cross Society in Ahmedabad. Ajay Patel, Chairman of the Indian Red Cross Society, Gujarat, remained present at the event. During his address at the felicitation ceremony for Centurion Blood Donors and Star Blood Donor Institutions, the Chief Minister highlighted the significance of service, charitable acts, and donations, according to a press release. He said that blood donation is the most significant donation, and donating blood a hundred or more times is a matter of immense pride and honour. He hailed the Centurion blood donors as true heroes for their contributions. The CM also highlighted the ongoing efforts of Red Cross Gujarat, led by Ajay Patel, in serving the community. He praised the organisation for providing vital services such as pathology tests, generic medicines, dental care, and physiotherapy at subsidised rates. Furthermore, he recognised the Red Cross's commitment to ensuring immediate blood assistance to citizens through its extensive network of blood banks across the state, the release said. The CM mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended health security to the poor and middle class through Ayushman cards under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and added that the assistance under the Ayushman cards in Gujarat has been increased from Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs. The CM also stated that, under the Prime Minister's leadership, initiatives spanning from Yog to Ayushman have been launched to promote a healthy society. The Chief Minister reaffirmed the Prime Minister's motto, 'Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai,' and conveyed his confidence that Gujarat will play a leading role in realising a Viksit Bharat by 2047. At the event, the Chief Minister and distinguished guests honoured Centurion Blood Donors and Star Blood Donor Institutions, including five women Centurion Blood Donors. The book 'Ahmedabad Red Cross - Pride of Gujarat' was also launched during the occasion. The ceremony was attended by MLA Amit Shah, Police Commissioner G.S. Malik, Chairman of the Indian Red Cross Society Shri Amit Doshi, and Chairman of Emirates Shri Mukesh Patel, along with officials, members, and employees of the Indian Red Cross Society, blood donors, and the representatives from organisations contributing to this noble cause, added the release. (ANI) A 59-year-old inspector posted at the BSF Academy in Tekanpur in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district, was duped of more than Rs 70 lakh after being subjet4ed to a 'digital arrest' for nearly a month, a police officer said on Tuesday. The official further added that the cyber frauds posed themselves as officials of the Mumbai Cyber Crime Wing and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and extorted money from the BSF officer by executing various transactions throughout December, starting on December 2. According to the FIR, the victim lodged a complaint that he was defrauded of Rs 70,29,990 by some unknown persons who posed as officers of the cyber crime wing, and threatened both him and his family with arrest. Superintendent of Police (SP, Gwalior) Dharmaveer Singh told ANI, "The victim is a BSF officer and posted on the post of Inspector at BSF Academy Tekanpur. A complaint was lodged at Crime Branch Gwalior on Monday. The victim told the police that he received a call from the cyber frauds on December 2 last month and he was informed that ED and the Mumbai crime branch were investigating his fake accounts. They also threatened him that his family members would be arrested in connection with the same." The BSF officer was put under pressure and as a result, made several financial transfers to the fraudsters throughout December. In the meantime, he also went to Lucknow after taking leave and transferred some money to them from there as well, SP Singh said. "Based on the complaint, a case has been registered and an SIT (Special Investigation Team) has been constituted to probe the case. Details of all the bank accounts in which transactions were made have been collected and the team is working on the case," the SP said. During the period of the fraud, the victim did not inform his senior officers, colleagues, or family members. However, when his son later learned of the incident, it was brought to the notice of the police. Taking prompt action, the FIR was registered and further proceedings into the matter are underway, SP Dharmaveer Singh added. (ANI) For better coordination between the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the agency has deployed three senior officers in two different countries. This marks the first time the agency has stationed officers at INTERPOL for enhanced criminal tracking. A senior official confirmed that for timely redressal of issues related to transnational crimes and tracking fugitives, they have stationed three CBI officers - two in France and one in Singapore for better coordination. It has been done for the first time. As earlier only senior officers used to be deployed at INTERPOL. "These officers help in facilitating extradition, coordination and other legal issues related to fugitives involved in transnational crimes," the officer added. In 2024, more than 170 notices under various categories have been issued. There are seven types of INTERPOL notices -- Red Notice, Yellow Notice, Blue Notice, Black Notice, Green Notice, Orange Notice, and Purple Notice. INTERPOL issues these notices at the request of a member country's National Central Bureau and shares them with all member countries. On Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the 'Bharatpol' portal to facilitate faster international assistance for agencies. Interpol, headquartered in Lyon, France, fosters global police cooperation and crime prevention. In 2023, more than 100 Red Corner Notices (RCN) were issued, leading to the return of 29 wanted criminals to India. In 2024, at least 20 individuals were brought back to India with the support of INTERPOL and international law enforcement partners. (ANI) The Indian Army, Assam Rifles, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams and other agencies continued their rescue operations on Tuesday to evacuate nine people trapped in a coal mine at 3 Kilo, Umrangso area in Assam's Dima Hasao district since January 6. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), informed, "The police have registered an FIR under Umrangso PS Case No: 02/2025, citing Sections 3(5)/105 BNS, r/w Section 21(1) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to investigate the incident. Prima facie, it appears to be an illegal mine. One Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the case." Meanwhile, the Chief Minister discussed the rescue operation with Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy and sought assistance. "I also spoke to Hon'ble Union Coal Minister, Shri @kishanreddybjp, seeking assistance for our rescue operation in Umrangsu. He has promptly issued directions to @CoalIndiaHQ to extend full support to the Assam government in this mission. My sincere gratitude to him for his swift response and support," CM Sarma posted on X. "Deep divers from the Army are also at the site and have entered the mine as part of their rescue mission," the Assam CM wrote on X. Notably, no one has been rescued till now, according to Assam Mines and Minerals Minister Kaushik Rai. "We have not been able to rescue anyone till now. The rescue operation is underway...All the teams--SDRF, NDRF, Assam Rifles and the Army--are here. The Navy is also coming. The Indian Air Force is also deployed here... The CM is looking after this situation...All the officials are here and we are making all the efforts to rescue everyone," said Assam Mines and Minerals minister Kaushik Rai while speaking to ANI. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai on Tuesday announced that his party will extend full support to the Samajwadi Party (SP) for the upcoming Milkipur Assembly by-elections, scheduled to be held on February 5. Speaking to ANI, Ajay Rai said, "In Milkipur, we will extend full support to our ally Samajwadi Party's candidate." Meanwhile, Ayoodya Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi highlighted that the bypolls provide the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with an opportunity to "right the wrongs" of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Ayodhya. "We were waiting for the Milkipur bypolls. It is an opportunity to right the wrongs of Lok Sabha polls in Ayodhya. The people are also waiting to support the BJP and send the correct message through Milkipur bypolls," Tripathi said. Tripathi also emphasized that the BJP's agenda for the bypolls would focus on the development and employment opportunities in Ayodhya. "The agenda for the election will be development and employment opportunities of Ayodhya. The opposition only worked for their families and did nothing for Milkipur. So this time, the people will answer," he added. The election on the Milkipur seat was necessitated after the resignation of Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad, who left the seat to fight Lok Sabha Election from Faizabad Lok Sabha Constituency. He notably defeated BJP's Lallu Singh, adding to the setback NDA suffered in Uttar Pradesh. The INDIA alliance won 43 seats with SP spearheading 37 seats, while the NDA alliance was kept on hold at 36 seats out of the 80 seats. However, BJP saw a resurgence in assembly bypolls where they won six seats and its ally Rashtriya Lok Dal (RJD) won one seat, while the Samajwadi Party only managed to win two seats out of nine contested. As per the Election Commission of India (ECI), Milkipur will be voting on February 5 and the result will be announced on February 8. The last date for filing the nominations is January 17, while the date of scrutiny of nomination is January 18. The last date for the withdrawal of candidatures is January 20. (ANI) The concerted efforts of the Himachal Pradesh government towards road safety and traffic management have seen a remarkable reduction in road accidents and fatalities in the state during the year 2024. According to a press release, compared to the year 2023, road accidents in Himachal Pradesh have decreased by 6.48 per cent. A total of 2107 accidents were reported in the year 2024 as against 2253 in the year 2023. Fatalities also saw a notable decline, with 806 lives lost in the year 2024 compared to 892 in the year 2023. Additionally, the number of injuries also dropped from 3449 in the year 2023 to 3290 in the year 2024. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, said "The decline in road accidents and fatalities is a testament to the collective efforts of the Government, the law enforcement agencies and awakened citizens. Over the past two years, the State Government has undertaken several initiatives to save valuable lives." The present State Government has launched targeted awareness campaigns to promote responsible driving behaviour, improved the road infrastructure and implemented safety measures in accident-prone areas. It has also strengthened the enforcement of traffic regulations and has enhanced the emergency response system to ensure timely medical assistance to accident victims. This achievement is particularly commendable when viewed against the national backdrop. In 2023, India witnessed a rise in road accidents and fatalities with nearly 1.73 lakh deaths and approximately 4.63 lakh injuries reported, marking record highs. This translates to an average of 474 fatalities daily or one life lost every three minutes. The official statistics for road accidents in India for the year 2024 have not yet been released and are expected to be available later. Sukhu further emphasised the importance of road safety and the measures, stating, "While the decline in road accidents and fatalities is encouraging, even a single life lost on our roads is one too many. We will continue to prioritize road safety and implement innovative measures to further reduce accidents in the coming years." The Chief Minister also urged people of the State to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by adhering to traffic rules, avoiding over-speeding and refraining from harsh driving. He said that public participation remains a cornerstone in the mission to achieve safer roads. He said that the State Government is committed to safeguarding human lives and will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to further improve road safety across the State. (ANI) New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh on Monday reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement to step down from the position of Prime Minister and Liberal Party leader. He said that Trudeau has disappointed people and criticised him on his handling of issues like housing, groceries and healthcare. Jagmeet Singh said that Liberals don't deserve another chance. He also took a dig at the Conservative Party and accused it of prioritising the CEOs. He urged the people of Canada to support the NDP. In a statement shared on X, Jagmeet Singh stated, "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. You can have a government that works for you for a change," he added. 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. While addressing a press conference on Monday (local time), Jagmeet Singh criticised Trudeau for proroguing the Canadian Parliament and termed his decision "wrong," according to the Canada-based media channel, Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC). He said that Liberals need to be fired and New Democrats are giving an option to people of Canada who are worried about the cuts of Pierre Poilievre. On being asked Canadian Parliament being prorogued until March 24, he responded, "Well typical liberals, they are shutting down Parliament not going to work and and Canadians actually need them to be on work, need us to go to work so it's completely wrong what they're doing. Obviously it's wrong that Liberals are choosing to shut down Parliament not going to work. If someone didn't show up to work they would get fired that's what should happen." "We should fire the Liberals, they've let down Canadian, they need to get fired and New Democrats are going to give a real option to Canadians who are worried about the cuts of Pierre Poilievre. We have shown you that we can fight for you, we can fight and we can deliver. We fought the Liberals every step of the way to secure dental care for seniors, it was a battle, it was a fight but we did not relent we did not give up we continue to fight and we secure that for you. If you give us a chance that's exactly what we'll do in government, we will fight for you every single day, fight for the working class fight for the middle class to bring down the cost of groceries to take on those greedy CEOs that are ripping you off to make sure you can actually afford a home that's our commitment to you," he added. He announced that New Democrats will vote against the Liberal government. He said that Conservatives under Pierre Pollievere want to cut things that people of Canada need, like pensions, healthcare, dental care and called the decision "callous," according to the Canada-based media channel, Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC). When asked whether NDP will vote to bring down the government at the throne speech, Singh said, "Yes, whatever the vote, there will be a vote of confidence, new Democrats will be voting against this government for an election where Canadians will have a choice. The Liberals have let you down. They've let you down again and again it doesn't matter who the leader is, the Liberals have let you down they do not deserve another chance and the Conservatives under Pierre Pollievere want to cut the things that you need." "They want to cut pensions for seniors who are already struggling. They want to cut healthcare at a time when people can't get the care they need. They want to cut dental care for Seniors and kids who are just receiving this care they want to cut that. It's a callous decision and New Democrats want to fight those greedy CEOs that are ripping you off. We want to lower your grocery bills and make sure you can actually find a home that you can afford. New Democrats are building a movement if you are worried about those cuts if you're worried about Pierre Pollievere you feel let down by the Liberals stand with us. Stand with us this time, We are building a movement to fight back, we are fighting to win till end for you," he added. He said that Justin Trudeau has let you down in terms of cost of living. He said that Liberals are more interested in themselves than the struggles of Canadians. He also talked about the threats of US President-elect Donald Trump and tarriffs faced by Canada. Jagmeet Singh said, "Justin Trudeau's liberals have let down Canadians they have let you down when it comes to the cost of homes. He has let you down when it comes to the cost of living and frankly it's not Justin Trudeau, it's every liberal Minister, every liberal MP who look down in their nose at you when people were saying we can't make ends meet we are struggling with the cost of living. So, it doesn't matter who the next liberal leader is they've let you down. They do not deserve another chance, they're more interested in themselves than the struggles of Canadians." "We've got serious threats of Donald Trump and tariffs that put in question hundreds and thousands of Canadian jobs and instead of focusing on you and protecting your jobs, they're worried aboutthemselves. We have another serious threat to the middle class in Canada and that is Pierre Poilievreand the conservatives. Pierre Poilievre and Canadians want to cut from the middle class to give to the rich CEO friends. They want to cut your pensions. They want to cut health care. They want to cut dental care to make the rich CEO buddies even richer," he added. Trudeau's key ally Jagmeet Singh's New Democratic Party in September last year withdrew support from the Liberal Party putting Trudeau's minority government at risk an year ahead of the next general elections, CBC News reported. The deal was scheduled to run until June 2025. Jagmeet Singh, who helped Trudeau keep his minority government in power, attacked the Canadian PM for caving to "corporate greed" and claimed that the Liberals have "let people down." (ANI) National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held a meeting with his US counterpart Jake Sullivan in New Delhi on Monday. Sullivan spoke about US' efforts to finalise the necessary steps to delist Indian nuclear entities, which will promote civil nuclear cooperation US NSA 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, according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release. In a press release, MEA said, "Reflecting the progress the United States and India have made--and will continue to make--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." For the meeting, NSA Sullivan was accompanied by a delegation of senior US government officials. Doval and Sullivan have engaged regularly in a high-level dialogue through extensive discussions on a broad bilateral, regional and global agenda. After the launch of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) by Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the Quad Summit in Tokyo on 24 May 2022, NSA Doval and NSA Sullivan have driven concrete initiatives between the two countries in various sectors, 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," MEA said in a press release. On Monday, Sullivan also visited IIT Delhi and noted Ajit Doval's efforts to propel US-India partnerships on various projects. In his address at IIT Delhi on Monday, Sullivan said, "I would like to recognise my counterpart, the National Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, because it was in part his vision. That technology, and particularly advanced technologies of the future would be a propellant for the US-India relationship in a way that could take our two countries forward, advance our respective interests, protect our respective values, and build a better world for everybody." "And through this partnership, through this initiative, and through so many other things that Ajit and I have had to deal with over the course of the past 4 years, he and I have developed a deep personal relationship, a deep professional relationship, and it is that relationship in part I believe that has helped play such a critical role in ensuring that the US-India partnership has reached a new high level," he added. Sullivan highlighted new premises where India and the US could collaborate, like biotechnology, Artificial intelligence, etc. He said, "Now the fundamental premise of I said is that in an era of renewed geopolitical competition, the US and India have to collaborate on the development, diffusion and protection of critical technologies from artificial intelligence to biotechnology and beyond." US NSA appreciated India's role in developing vaccines during the pandemic, and envisioned sending an astronaut in space together. "Over the last 4 years we've joined hands to help halt the pandemic, to bring vaccines to the world. We've launched initiatives on jet engines, semiconductors, and clean energy, and in a few months' time we'll 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. (ANI) Brazil has announced that Indonesia has become a full member of the BRICS group. Brazil, which holds the presidency of the BRICS in 2025, said that Indonesia's candidature was endorsed by leaders of the bloc at the Johannesburg summit in 2023. In a statement, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry welcomed Indonesia for its entry into BRICS. It said that Indonesia and other BRICS members support the reform of the global governance institutions. "The Brazilian government welcomes Indonesia for its entry into BRICS. As the largest economy and most populous nation in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares with other BRICS members the support for the reform of the global governance institutions and contributes significantly to the deepening of Global South cooperation, priorities that align with Brazil's theme for its presidency: "Enhancing Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance," Brazilian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Indonesia formally notified the group of its interest in joining BRICS only after the establishment of its new government. In 2024, the BRICS nations approved by consensus Indonesia's membership in line with the guiding principles, criteria, and procedures for expansion agreed upon in Johannesburg, according to the statement. BRIC, as a formal grouping, started after the meeting of the Leaders of Russia, India and China in St Petersburg on the margins of G8 Outreach Summit in 2006. The grouping was formalized during the first meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers on the margins of UNGA in New York in 2006. The first BRIC Summit was held in Russia's Yekaterinburg in 2009. It was agreed to expand BRIC into BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa at the BRIC Foreign Ministers' meeting in New York in 2010. South Africa attended the 3rd BRICS Summit in Sanya in 2011. A further expansion of BRICS took place in 2024 with five new members - Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The 16th BRICS Summit was being held under Russia's chairmanship in Kazan in 2024. (ANI) 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. [Photo/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. Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi attended the session. [Photo/Xinhua] 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. [Photo/Xinhua] Canadian journalist Daniel Bordman has said that people in Canada are happy that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had to face the camera and say that he failed. He said that Trudeau's goal is to remain in office when the G7 Summit is set to take place in Canada. In an interview with ANI, Bordman said that the Trump administration is pretty clear that Liberals had no plans whatsoever for US President-elect Donald Trump getting back in office. He said that the Trudeau administration spent the last 8 years to show Trump as bad and that was destabilising the ties between US and Canada. On Trudeau's announcement to step down as the leader of the Liberal Party and as PM as soon as a new candidate is found for the post, Bordman said, "So, he just announced his resignation from liberal leadership and then subsequently prime ministership once there is a new liberal leader in a process that he will say, months ahead. So, at some point, everyone in Canada is very happy, because people are happy that Justin Trudeau had to walk down the steps, go in front of the camera and say, I failed. Well, he said, I was the greatest prime minister ever, I'm amazing, everyone loved me. But, the only problem in the last 10 years wasn't enough Trudeau and for that, I'm sorry but he's staying on as prime minister for now. We have a liberal leadership race. We have parliament prorogued until the middle of March. Things are happening. They're gonna have to come back in March to pass something. So, we're looking at a summer election, which is kind of where we all predicted things would go." "This is a consequence of, I think, the new Trump administration is pretty clear the Liberals had no plans whatsoever for Trump getting back in office. They spent the last 8 years making Trump bad, a central part of their foreign and domestic policy, that was really destabilising the Canada-US relations. It like was fine when Biden. was in office, but standard foreign policy, international relations, don't take sides in the internal politics of your allies, that's just not what you should do. It's what we did pretty consistently over the 10 years. So, the Trump administration came in and decided to return the hostility to the Trudeau administration, threatened the 25 per cent tariffs, and I think that really pushed things along, and forced Trudeau," he added. Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that he would resign as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister as soon as a new candidate is found for the post. He said that the Canadian Parliament would be prorogued or suspended until March 24. While addressing a press conference on Monday, 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. According to him, Canadians have bargaining power when it comes to holding talks with US on trade deals. He said that they will find out later whether the hate among people is more for Trudeau or the Liberal Party. He said, "From a Canadian perspective, I think this might be very good because then we have the bargaining power to go, hey, we know you hate Justin Trudeau. We don't really have a government right now, wait till the results of this election, and then let's talk about trade deals and all this different stuff. So, it gives us a better sort of excuse for the Americans to just ask for a delay on all of this. Will it be granted, who knows? But, effectively, we're not going to have a government for the next two months, which is a vast improvement on the current government in a lot of people's estimations, and we will have a new liberal leadership, race and a new liberal leader will come in." "I have my own thoughts about the future of the Liberal Party, but, that's the story for another day. But, I think Canadians are quite happy across the board to just be done with Trudeau. Now, do some people think, oh, it's just Trudeau who did this or do the Canadians understand that this is actually the policies of the Liberal Party that have affected their lives? We'll find out if the hatred is more towards Trudeau or the liberals. I mean, there is a special type of condescending narcissism that Canadians have always found off-putting in Justin Trudeau," he added. He recalled that Trudeau in his first term accused small business owners, doctors, and lawyers of being tax cheats and passed a law called small business owners and doctors' tax cheats. He said that he treats India like he treats Canadians with contempt and hypocrisy. Stressing that everyone in Canada is happy over Trudeau's announcement, he said, "It started back in his first term, he accused small business owners, doctors, and lawyers of being tax cheats, well-maintaining loopholes for his own trust fund. So, he passed a law called small business owners and doctors' tax cheats and use that to then protect his own personal .... because he comes from incredible wealth. He comes from oil wealth and is a future prime minister, and then rails against, nepotism and the energy industry. It's sort of standard hypocrisy. So,, if you're an Indian and wondering why is he treating us unfairly. He's not, he's treating you the same way he treats Canadians with contempt hypocrisy and condescending. So, in a sense, he treats you like you really are, his people, with the true contempt that he has for the average Canadian, he does have for you as well. So, I think everyone's in a good mood in Canada over this," he said. He called the Liberal Party an "untenable political party" with two open facts which is being a minority party and having two factions in the party. Bordman said that Trudeau wants to fulfil his lifelong dream which is calling himself the president of the G7. Bordman said, "The Liberal Party was an untenable political party going forward with there being two open facts, they're a minority party, and there are two factions in the party, one led by the former deputy prime minister, and they're having a public war." "It was untenable and couldn't go along. So Trudeau. has managed to sort of kick down. How much more time can he squeeze out as prime minister, we'll find out. I do think his goal is to be, officially the Prime Minister when the G7, is in Canada in June. So, I think he'll want to sort of say, oh, we'll have the elections after that, so I can call myself president of the G20. Because again, this has always been his priority to be seen as an international leader at the United Nations, international human rights, something, something climate change. He's always wanted to do that. So, he'll get to fulfil one of his lifelong dreams, which is calling himself president of the G7 and millions of Canadians will get to see their lifelong dream of watching Trudeau resign from office," he added. Canadian journalist said that Trudeau's professional hero is Greta Thunberg and he wants to go on a boat to Europe and speak about climate, and diversity. According to him, Trump wants to become head of some large international NGO so that he can call himself very important. On being asked about Trudeau's future and political stability in Canada, Bordman said, "So, firstly, the future of Justin Trudeau, and I've said this for a while, and people think I'm joking because Justin Trudeau's hero and like professional hero is Greta Thunberg. That is who he is most jealous of. He wants to be a Swedish teenager or himself. He wants to go on a boat to Europe to, again, just say diversity and climate change is important. Like him, he wants to be some head or figurehead of some large international NGO. So, he can call himself very important and of course, money laundering, that's an important part of global NGOs; Money laundering and capitulating to terrorist organisations." "So that's also, but that again that's that's very much up for Trudeau's wheelhouse as well. So, a bit of a lateral movement there. So that's Justin's future is he will be travelling around Europe and to different sort of what you would call globalist institutes colloquially, but again, like the international left-wing institutions. You'll see him in those things, you know, talking about how great he is. That's always been his ambition and I think none of that has changed, which again, I think that's why he'll be prime minister in June, so he can call himself president of the G20, which he seems to love doing," he added. He emphasised that Canada will have a strong Conservative majority and have a brighter future with the US. He blamed Trudeau for the problems that the people are facing in the US. Stressing that Canada will have a strong Conservative majority, he said, "Now, the future of stability of Canada, I think Canada will get after an election candidate gets a lot more stable because Canada will have a likely a strong conservative majority. So, the Conservatives see, which will have a much, brighter future with Americans and kind of going forward is really good because we have tonnes of energy. We have tonnes of resources. There's no reason for economic catastrophe in Canada. There's really no reason. All our problems are self-inflicted and the person who inflicted them is Justin Trudeau. And for the first time, with the keystone pipeline, these energy pipelines, we've always had when Stephen Harper was Prime Minister and we had a pro-Canada, pro-energy prime minister, Barack Obama was president of the United States, and, and stalled all energy developments from Canada to the US because oil from Canada, the United States is bad for the environment, but oil from, um, Saudi Arabia is good for the environment, right? Go figure that one." "So, with Donald Trump and Pierre Poilievre, both being pro-business, pro-resource, pro-Canada, pro-America leaders, I think the Keystone Pipeline will get built, and there'll be development, and Canada will finally be able to get resources to market. We have tonnes of LNG, the Japanese and the Europeans wanted to buy our energy, were begging to buy our energy, and Trudeau shut them down, saying there's no business case to sell energy to market and that was literally his response to people offering us billions of dollars in exchange for our resources and there isn't really a business case. All competent businessmen will tell you what you don't want to do in a business is exchange money for services or products. That's not what you do in business. That, that's clearly not how businesses work, and businesses instead are grown from the heart outwards. I am joking, but this is also parroting verbatim, Justin Trudeau's rhetoric circa 2015. So, this madness will stop, the immigration numbers will come down," he added. He said that Canada will be like how it used to be 10 years back in policies related to immigration. He stated that a summer election is better than a fall election. He said that Canada will remain a bit rocky until Trudeau is out of office. "We'll probably go back to legal immigration. People will have to prove that they're not a terrorist. And not a fraudster who actually can speak the language before they get in like it was 10 years ago. I think we'll have like a bit of standard again, and hopefully, we'll stop funding international terrorist syndicates. That would be nice. I would like that, and all that. So I think, I mean, Canada's gonna be a bit rocky until Trudeau's out of office because he's going to squeeze everything out of this. But a summer election is better than a fall election," he said. "And with a conservative party in Canada and a Republican Party in the United States, linking up those pipelines that have been stalled for 20 years by different left-wing leaderships will be most likely driven through and Canadian resources will get to market, and then billions of dollars will start to flow into the country. Once Canadians have jobs and money and wealth, a lot of the problems in the country will dissipate. I mean, it doesn't solve everything, but a rich country and a functioning rich wealthy country with problems is better than an incompetent struggling, poor country with problems. It's easier to fix your problems if you have resources going to market at a high rate," he added. (ANI) Following a second arrest warrant against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina by International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), over allegations of enforced disappearances, former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, questioned the credibility and evidence behind these charges, emphasising the lack of facts and figures. Sikri further highlighted that international body UN Human Rights Commission have found no substantial evidence While speaking with ANI, Sikri said, "This is the second arrest warrant issued against Sheikh Hasina. This is on enforced disappearances... If you talk about the first arrest warrant, it was on the so-called genocide. But no facts and figures were presented. When the UN Human Rights Commission was asked to give a report on the people who lost their lives in July, August, they say we have not been given any evidence... Is there an FIR? What is written in the FIR? What is the evidence? There is nothing like that..." She added, "When you make an extradition request, it is a long legal case. You have to give the evidence that has been presented... None of this has been done. Now the question of enforced disappearances, you just name it like that. The Rapid Action Battalion is responsible and is accused of these enforced disappearances. This was set up during Begum Khaleda Zia's time, the Rapid Action Battalion. And since then there have been all these allegations against them that they take people, enforced disappearances. Since then it has become a political issue. But now suddenly making a case out of it and then accusing 12 people. I don't think these cases carry any seriousness." Notably, the ICT on Monday 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. 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) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday highlighted progress in Ukraine's ongoing counteroffensive in the Kursk region, marking five months since the operation began. Zelenskyy emphasised the creation of a buffer zone on Russian territory and the destruction of Russian military assets, noting motre than 38,000 enemy losses in the area, including approximately 15,000 "irrecoverable losses." Sharing a post on X early Tuesday, Zelenskyy said, "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 their military potential there. During the Kursk operation, the enemy has already lost over 38,000 soldiers in this single direction alone, with approximately 15,000 of them irrecoverable losses." Zelenskyy added, "The Russians have deployed their strongest units to Kursk, including soldiers from North Korea. Importantly, all this manpower cannot now be redirected to other fronts--neither to the Donetsk region, nor against Sumy, the Kharkiv region, or Zaporizhzhia." Praising the Ukrainian forces for their efforts, Zelenskyy said, "I thank all our warriors who are bringing the war back home--to Russia--and giving Ukraine more security and strength." Ukraine on Sunday carried out a counterattack in Kursk, warning that Moscow is "getting what it deserves," CNN reported. Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the Ukrainian Center for Countering Disinformation, an official body, announced that Ukrainian forces had launched surprise attacks against Russian forces in various locations in Kursk, months after conducting its incursion in the region. In a short post shared on Telegram, the head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak said, "Kursk region, good news, Russia is getting what it deserves." The Ukrainian military first conducted an incursion into Kursk in August and has held much of the territory it took, despite efforts made by Russian forces and recently deployed North Korean soldiers to send back Ukrainian troops across the border. In a statement shared on Sunday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that the Ukrainians had conducted counterattacks to stop a Russian offensive, CNN reported, citing TASS news agency. It said that both had been repelled and added that the Ukrainian assault including two tanks and 12 armoured vehicles was defeated near Berdin village, which is located some 15 kilometers from the border. (ANI) China has accused Taiwan of undermining efforts to improve cross-strait relations, blaming the island for rejecting dialogue and escalating tensions between the two sides, Taipei Times reported. An official familiar with cross-strait affairs stated that Taiwan's refusal to engage in talks and its heightened rhetoric have led to the breakdown in bilateral exchanges. Despite these accusations, the official also placed blame on Beijing for its military activities around Taiwan, suggesting that China should not expect its delegations to be welcomed while its military continues to provoke the island. The delay of the Twin City Forum in December, which was meant to involve exchanges between Taiwanese and Chinese officials, was attributed to China's failure to finalize its guest list, not any obstruction from Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), reported Taipei Times. China had submitted a list of over 100 attendees for the forum, with Taiwan approving over 90% of the guests. However, the few individuals who were not approved were from China's Taiwan Affairs Office, which enforces Beijing's 22 guidelines against "Taiwan independence," a policy introduced in June 2023. Taiwan's official explained that, while the MAC had long sought to lift the ban on group tours to China, it was the 22 guidelines that had made such a move impossible, Taipei Times reported. Despite this, the official stated that many Taiwanese still find ways to visit China independently, though Taiwan remains committed to fostering goodwill with Beijing. If China engages in dialogue or demonstrates positive action, Taiwan is open to revisiting the group tour ban and improving cross-strait relations. Earlier, Taiwan's Ministry of Defence (MND) reported that 15 aircraft from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and eight vessels from the PLA Navy (PLAN) were detected near Taiwan's territory. The MND said that 14 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan's southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). "15 PLA aircraft and 8 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today," the MND stated, adding that the military had been closely monitoring the situation and responding accordingly. In a related development, Taiwan's armed forces also tracked a satellite launch by China from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center (XSLC) at 4:00 a.m. (UTC+8). Although the rocket's flight path passed over central Taiwan and posed no immediate threat, Taiwan's military maintained vigilance during the operation. Earlier this week, the MND also reported detecting seven PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels near Taiwan. Six of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan's southwestern and eastern ADIZ. In response, Taiwan's MND initiated war-preparedness drills at strategic locations on the island and coordinated with the Coast Guard Administration to implement countermeasures. The ongoing tension stems from Taiwan's assertion of its independence, with the island operating as a de facto independent state with its own government, military, and economy. China, however, views Taiwan as a breakaway province and continues to push for reunification under its "One China" policy, which asserts Beijing as the sole capital of China. The conflict has its origins in the Chinese Civil War, when the Republic of China (ROC) government retreated to Taiwan following the Communist Party's victory on the mainland. As China continues its push for reunification, Taiwan remains steadfast in its stance on maintaining independence, a position supported by a significant portion of the island's population. (ANI) North Korea announced on Tuesday that it had successfully test-fired a new intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) equipped with a hypersonic warhead, Yonhap News Agency reported, citing state media. According to North Korea's state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the missile travelled approximately 1,500 kilometres at a speed 12 times faster than sound during a test conducted the previous day under the supervision of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un via a monitoring system. Kim stated that the development of the missile was intended to enhance North Korea's nuclear deterrence by "making the weapon system to which no one can respond to the linchpin of strategic deterrence." "The hypersonic missile system will reliably contain any rivals in the Pacific region that can affect the security of our state. The system can deal a serious military strike to a rival while effectively breaking any dense defensive barrier," Kim said, according to KCNA The KCNA reported that the hypersonic glide vehicle atop the IRBM reached its first peak at an altitude of 99.8 kilometres and a second at 42.5 kilometres, successfully completing a 1,500-kilometre flight path and striking its designated target in the sea. This missile test, North Korea's first provocation in roughly two months, occurred less than two weeks before US President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20. However, the South Korean military dismissed the North's claim as a "deception," saying there was no second peak. "The flight range analysed by South Korea, the US and Japan was around 1,100 kilometre and (the missile) did not reach a second peak," JCS spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-un told a regular press briefing, noting the North has a track record of "exaggerating," Yonhap reported. "North Korea probably intended to flex its muscle against the United States. As it said the latest launch was a test-firing, the weapons system does not appear to be completed, pointing to demand (to further develop) in terms of military technology," an official at South Korea's unification ministry told reporters. Notably, North Korea fired a hypersonic missile into the East Sea on Monday. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) reported detecting the launch of a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) from the Pyongyang area around noon yesterday. The missile travelled approximately 1,100 kilometres before landing in the sea, Yonhap reported. Although the missile's flight range was below the typical 3,000 to 5,500 kilometres covered by IRBMs, a JCS official had noted that it appeared to share features with North Korea's intermediate-range hypersonic missiles tested in January and April last year. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to hold a bilateral meeting with Maldives Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on Wednesday, with discussions to focus on defence cooperation between the two nations, including training, exercises, and defence projects to enhance the capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces. Notably, the Defence Minister of Maldives will be on a three-day visit to India from January 8 to 10. During his stay, he will also be visiting Goa and Mumbai. The Ministry of Defence in a press release said, "Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will hold a bilateral meeting with the Defence Minister of Maldives Mr Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on January 08, 2025. During the talks, the two Ministers will review the various facets of bilateral defence cooperation including training, regular exercises, defence projects, workshops and seminars to enhance the capability of the Maldives National Defence Forces as well as supply of defence equipment and stores." "India and the Maldives share spiritual, historical, linguistic and ethnic ties. The Maldives occupies a special place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, which aims to bring stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Also, both nations are key players in maintaining safety and security of IOR, thus contributing to India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)," the release added. Earlier on Sunday, Maldives' Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Khaleel, concluded his first official visit to India, an official press release by the Maldives' Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. The visit included high-level discussions and the signing of key agreements to advance development cooperation, marking a significant step in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations. Khaleel met with Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, where they reviewed the broad spectrum of bilateral relations. Discussions centred on exploring new areas of collaboration, particularly in development projects, infrastructure, and socio-economic initiatives. Khaleel expressed his appreciation for India's continued support in addressing the fiscal challenges faced by the Maldives, emphasising the importance of this partnership in promoting economic stability, the press release stated. One of the visit's key highlights was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP). This agreement launched the third phase of project-based cooperation between India and the Maldives, aiming to bring tangible benefits to communities at the grassroots level. (ANI) Ekpar Asat, who has been imprisoned since 2016, remains one of the many victims of the Chinese government's crackdown on the Uyghur Muslim minority in the Xinjiang region. His case has drawn widespread international condemnation. In a heartfelt message shared on X, Rayhan E Asat called attention to her brother's plight, noting that despite a UN ruling declaring his detention arbitrary, he remains unjustly imprisoned. "Each day, he holds onto hope for justice. This year, I manifest his freedom," she wrote, urging others to join her in demanding his release. According to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, Ekpar was detained upon returning to China after participating in a US leadership programme. Authorities charged him with "inciting ethnic hatred," but the details surrounding his trial remain unclear. Rushan Abbas, Chair of the World Uyghur Congress Executive Committee, echoed these sentiments, drawing parallels between Ekpar's case and the unjust detention of his own sister, Gulshan Abbas. "Ekpar's unjust imprisonment reflects the plight of millions of other Uyghurs," Abbas wrote on X, wishing for a future where Uyghur detainees, including Ekpar, are freed. The detention of Uyghur activists like Ekpar Asat is part of a larger pattern of repression in Xinjiang. China has been accused of carrying out widespread human rights abuses against the Uyghur population, including arbitrary detention, forced labour, and indoctrination in so-called "reeducation" camps. Beijing argues these measures are necessary to combat extremism and maintain stability. However, international human rights groups and governments have raised concerns about ethnic persecution, with accusations of genocide, forced assimilation, and abuses. This controversy has sparked widespread calls for justice, highlighting the growing tension between human rights advocacy and China's internal policies. The case of Ekpar Asat is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by Uyghur Muslims under Chinese authorities, with activists and human rights organisations calling for global action and justice for the oppressed. (ANI) Sajid Hussain, leader of the United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP), has strongly criticized recent remarks by Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, Prime Minister of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), who publicly called for jihad. Hussain described the statements as a serious threat to both regional and global peace, labeling them as a dangerous incitement to violence. In a video message, Hussain condemned the Prime Minister's rhetoric as rooted in extremism, emphasising that such remarks, made under the guise of advancing the Kashmir issue, represent a harmful shift away from diplomatic norms. "We are deeply concerned and alarmed by the recent public statements made by the so-called Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, in which he openly called for initiating Jihad. This rhetoric, steeped in extremism, is a direct incitement to violence, posing a significant threat to regional and global peace. Such declarations, made under the guise of advancing the Kashmir issue, represent a dangerous departure from diplomatic norms and a blatant endorsement of terrorism in the name of Islam," Hussain said. The UKPNP leader further expressed his concern that such extremist rhetoric contradicts Pakistan's commitments to promoting peace, as outlined in the United Nations (UN) Charter. He noted that these statements are especially troubling given Pakistan's recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and its upcoming chairmanship in July. "These developments are particularly concerning in light of Pakistan's recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and its upcoming chairmanship in July. This prestigious role obligates Pakistan to adhere to the principles of the UN Charter, which include promoting international peace, resolving disputes through dialogue, and combating terrorism in all its forms. However, such statements, like those made by PM, are in direct contradiction to these commitments," Hussain remarked. Hussain also warned that such statements could harm Pakistan's international credibility. "Such rhetoric risks isolating Pakistan diplomatically and weakening its influence within the international community. Pakistan's efforts to improve its standing in global institutions, such as the Financial Action Task Force, are now at risk," he added. The UKPNP leader called for accountability and urged the international community to take stronger action against those who advocate violence. He said, "We urge the international community, including the UN, FATF, and other institutions, to take serious note of extremist rhetoric and its potential consequences." (ANI) The family of Shahnawaz Kunbhar, who died in police custody on September 19 last year, called for a transparent judicial inquiry into his death on Tuesday, following violent reactions from various religious groups and the burning of his body by enraged extremists. This request was made during a visit on Monday by a delegation of activists from various civil society organizations to the family's home in Janhero village, Umerkot district, as reported by Dawn. The delegation, led by leaders from the Sindhi Association of North America (SANA), included Ejaz Turk, Tahira Abdullah, Jami Chandio, Amar Sindhu, and other civil society activists. Speaking on behalf of his family, Ibrahim Kunbhar expressed a lack of confidence in the current police investigation. He emphasized that the inquiry should be conducted under the supervision of a sitting judge from the Sindh High Court. He also claimed that the CCTV footage of Kunbhar's arrest in Karachi, as well as other related events in Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, and other locations, had been destroyed. He suggested this was done to protect the police officers and others involved from facing accountability. It is important to note that the Sindh government had suggested a judicial inquiry by the SHC on October 16 last year, but no progress has been made since then. Shahnawaz Kunbhar was allegedly accused of sharing blasphemous posts on social media, which led to his death in a gun battle with the police in Mirpurkhas city, Sindh, on September 19. After the 'encounter,' the police handed over his body to the family, who then brought it to their native village of Janhero for burial. However, a mob attacked them and set the body on fire. On September 26, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar presented the findings of an inquiry into the killing, which concluded that the police had "staged the encounter." Following this, several religious leaders across Pakistan demanded that the government conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the blasphemy incident and its aftermath. The incident has sent shockwaves across Pakistan, with protests and demonstrations continuing in the country, demanding justice for Kunbhar. Blasphemy remains a major concern for ethnic minorities in Pakistan, as laws related to it are often manipulated by authorities and staunch Islamic radicals, resulting in brutality, extreme violence, and, in many cases, death against individuals belonging to ethnic minorities. (ANI) The inaugural India-Malaysia Security Dialogue was held in New Delhi on January 7, 2025, co-chaired by Shri Ajit Doval, National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of India, and Raja Dato Nushirwan Bin Zainal Abidin, Director General of the National Security Council of Malaysia, an official press release by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated. This high-level meeting marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation in security and defence between the two nations. During the dialogue, both sides discussed the global and regional security landscape and assessed their ongoing partnerships in the areas of security, defence, and maritime operations. Key agreements were reached to enhance collaboration in counter-terrorism, de-radicalisation, cyber security, defence industries, and maritime security, as per the official MEA press release. Additionally, they explored opportunities for joint efforts in the critical minerals and rare earths sectors. A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to institutionalise the dialogue through annual meetings, ensuring continuity and progress in bilateral engagements. This dialogue stems from the August 2024 visit of Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim to India at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the press release stated. During that visit, the bilateral relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reflecting both nations' commitment to deepening ties across multiple domains. Strengthening security cooperation was a key focus of the leaders' discussions, which laid the groundwork for this historic meeting. India and Malaysia share a long-standing bilateral relationship that dates back to 1957 when India established diplomatic ties with the Federation of Malaya, Malaysia's predecessor state. In the 1960s, this bond was reinforced through the personal friendship between then-Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra. Over the years, successive Malaysian leaders, including PM Abdullah Badawi and former PM Dato' Seri Mohd. Najib Tun Abdul Razak, have introduced initiatives to foster closer ties with India. The people-to-people connection remains a cornerstone of the relationship, with Malaysia hosting approximately 2.75 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), making it home to the second-largest PIO community globally. Additionally, tourism plays a vital role in enhancing bilateral ties. India is the fifth-largest source of tourists to Malaysia, with visa-free travel for Indian nationals introduced in December 2023 and Malaysia granted gratis tourist visas to Indian travellers in July 2024. With over 200 weekly flights connecting the two countries, the collaboration in civil aviation and tourism sectors continues to flourish. (ANI) The rapid spread of seasonal influenza in China in recent weeks has increased the demand for a certain antiviral medication, prompting health experts to warn against hoarding of the pills or administering them to children without a doctor's advice. The drug baloxavir marboxil, sold under the brand name Xofluza, is approved for use among adults, as well as children age 5 and above. While the original market price per strip of Xofluza, comprising two 20 milligram tablets, is 222 yuan ($30) in China, the prescription drug is currently being sold at over 300 yuan on some e-commerce platforms. Cases of influenza, a viral infection affecting the human respiratory system, have been on the rise since December. The positivity rate among people visiting hospitals with flu-like symptoms rose 6.2 percent during the week ending Dec 29 compared with the week before, according to data released earlier this month by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. "The prevalence of flu in northern provinces is more severe, but the overall level is lower than what was seen during the same period of the last flu season," said the China CDC. In Northeast China's Liaoning province, the number of flu cases surged in December, with an average weekly growth rate of over 123 percent, local authorities said last week. Official data showed that the influenza A virus is responsible for more than 99 percent of positive flu cases nationwide. For the week ending Dec 29, about 99.7 percent of flu patients were infected by the strain. Speaking about the surging demand for Xofluza, Sun Boyang, a pharmacist at Peking University People's Hospital, told China Central Television that compared with another common flu medication called oseltamivir, the drug baloxavir marboxil is easier to administer. While oseltamivir sold under the common brand name Tamiflu is usually prescribed for five consecutive days, with a daily dosage of two tablets, Xofluza only needs to be administered once throughout the entire course of illness. As some concerned parents are stocking up on the relatively newer antiviral medication in anticipation of a drug shortage, Sun said that children infected with the flu virus should first be taken to a hospital for evaluation, and Xofluza should be administered only under professional guidance. Pregnant or lactating women should also take special precautions while using this antiviral medication, the pharmacist added. Wang Quan, a physician at Capital Medical University's Beijing Children's Hospital, said that any antiviral medication is most effective when administered within 48 hours of a confirmed infection. Parents are also advised to administer antipyretic medication carefully based on a child's age and weight, as well as the drug's composition, Wang said. Pharmaceutical company Roche, the only supplier of Xofluza in China, allayed fears of a drug shortage and said on Monday that it has sufficient flu medication in stock. The company attaches great importance to securing inventories of Xofluza during this flu season, it added. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar, accompanied by his wife Kyoko Jaishankar, began his Odisha visit by paying respects at the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri. Sharing his sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar posted, "Blessed to have darshan of Lord Jagannath ji at Puri today. Prayed for peace, prosperity and harmony for all. Jai Jagannath!" https://x.com/drsjaishankar/status/1876551486181978264?s=46 The EAM also made a stop at the Raghurajpur Arts village and urged delegates at the PBD to visit the village. The heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur is best known for its Pattachitra art. The art form is used to decorate Lord Jagannath and his siblings. The attachment with the holy trinity elevated this art form helped it gain prominence. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1876602356160442395 "Great to visit the Raghurajpur Arts village. 18 PBD is an apt occasion to showcase the rich and diverse arts and crafts of Odisha. Hope our Pravasis will also visit and appreciate our heritage and traditions," he posted on X. Ahead of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, the External Affairs Minister also visited the renowned Sun Temple in Konark. He described the site as a remarkable embodiment of India's rich heritage and creative spirit. Urging Pravasi Bharatiya delegates to explore the historic landmark, Jaishankar wrote on X, "Delighted to visit the magnificent Sun Temple in Konark today. A testimony to our heritage and creativity, Konark is a must-visit for all our Pravasi friends visiting Bhubaneswar over the coming days." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1876524627000017023 While addressing reporters, Jaishankar expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit these revered sites, stating, "I am fortunate that I got the opportunity to do darshan (of Lord Jagannath). There couldn't have been a better start to a visit to Odisha." He also acknowledged the significant preparations made by the Odisha government for the PBD Convention, adding, "Our CM and Odisha administration have put in a lot of effort (for Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas). The President and the PM will also come. It will be a good opportunity to showcase Odisha." The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention is set to take place from January 8 to 10 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in collaboration with the State Government of Odisha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inaugurate the event on January 9 at 10:00 am. This year's convention theme, "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat," underscores the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in shaping a developed India. Over 50 countries are represented, with a large number of diaspora members registered to participate in the flagship event, which aims to connect the global Indian community and foster collaborative engagement. (ANI) Sabiha Baloch, a prominent leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has sharply condemned potential negotiations between Saudi Arabia and the Pakistani government to acquire a 15 per cent stake in the controversial Reko Diq mining project in Balochistan. In a statement shared on X, Sabiha argued that any deal made without the explicit consent of the Baloch people would amount to a gross exploitation of local resources, further marginalizing an already oppressed community. Sabiha expressed her concerns that such an agreement would be in violation of international principles, specifically citing Article 11 of the Cairo Declaration and Articles 1(2) and 55 of the United Nations Charter. According to Sabiha, these agreements bypass the Baloch people, who have a long history of resisting external control over their natural resources. "The Baloch have long fought to protect their land and resources from outside exploitation, and this move would further deepen their disenfranchisement," she stated. She also accused Pakistani officials of leveraging Balochistan's vast natural wealth to compensate for widespread corruption and financial mismanagement at the national level. Sabiha described the proposed deal as part of a broader government strategy of resource extraction that continues to neglect the rights of the local population. She warned that foreign investors, particularly in large-scale projects like Reko Diq, would be complicit in this exploitation if they proceeded without the approval of the Baloch people. Sabiha further emphasized the historical and cultural ties between the Baloch and Arab nations, warning that Saudi Arabia's involvement in the Reko Diq deal could jeopardize these long-standing relationships. She suggested that if Saudi Arabia proceeds with the deal without the consent of the Baloch people, it would be viewed as an act of systemic oppression, further fueling resentment toward the Kingdom. The Baloch leader called on Saudi Arabia to reconsider its position and refrain from engaging in projects that ignore the rights of the Baloch. She stressed that any agreement made without the Baloch people's consent would be unjust and would inevitably face strong resistance. (ANI) The banned militant group Pakistani Taliban, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), issued a threat to the Pakistani military, declaring that it will persist in targeting security forces and broaden its assaults to include the military's commercial ventures, Al Jazeera reported. In a statement released on Sunday, the TTP vowed to target a range of business ventures operated by the Pakistani military al Jazeera reported. The group specifically mentioned several companies, including the National Logistics Cell, a logistics company based in Rawalpindi; the Frontier Works Organisation, which focuses on engineering and construction; Fauji Fertiliser Company, a fertiliser producer; military-run housing authorities throughout Pakistan; a commercial bank; and other related entities. The Pakistani Taliban cautioned civilians to withdraw their investments from these military-controlled organizations within three months and advised employees of these companies to seek other means of earning. According to an Al Jazeera report, the military has yet to respond to the Pakistan Taliban's statement. Last month, the Pakistani military conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan, targeting suspected hideouts of the armed group. Pakistan holds the Taliban, which has governed Afghanistan since August 2021, responsible for providing safe havens to TTP fighters, enabling them to carry out cross-border attacks on law enforcement within Pakistan. However, the Afghan Taliban denies these accusations. The Pakistan Taliban shares an ideological alignment with the Afghan Taliban. Established in 2007 during the U.S.-led "war on terror," it has been engaged in an insurgency against the Pakistani state for over a decade. The report further stated that the group's demands include the implementation of strict Islamic law, the release of its detained members, and the reversal of the merger of Pakistan's tribal areas with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Since the Taliban took control of Kabul, TTP activity in Pakistan has surged significantly, with nearly 1,000 people, primarily security personnel, killed in 2023. Violence continued into 2024, which the Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), a think tank based in Islamabad, described as the deadliest year in almost a decade. According to CRSS, 2,526 people lost their lives in attacks last year, including nearly 700 security personnel, over 900 civilians, and around 900 armed fighters. These fatalities mark the highest toll in nine years, surpassing the previous record of 2,432 deaths in 2016. Imtiaz Gul, the executive director of CRSS, cautioned that the Pakistan Taliban's warning should not be ignored. "They are fully aware that the Pakistani military is crucial in this conflict, and their goal is to target the army and weaken its interests," Gul told Al Jazeera. Security expert Abdul Sayed, based in Sweden, stated that the TTP's statement marks a "significant shift" in the group's strategy. "Since Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud became TTP leader in July 2018, a policy was set to focus attacks mainly on security forces. However, the recent airstrikes in Afghanistan's Bermal district, which caused civilian casualties, likely prompted internal hardliners within the group to reconsider this strategy," Sayed told Al Jazeera. Although the timing of the Pakistan Taliban's statement coincides with intensifying military operations, including a campaign that began in June last year, analysts believe the group is also taking advantage of the country's political rifts. Qamar Cheema, an international affairs expert and executive director of the Sanober Institute, highlighted that supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the prominent opposition party, have recently launched social media campaigns calling for a boycott of products from military-run businesses. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has accused the military of conspiring with the United States and his political opponents to remove him from power in April 2022. Since his ousting and imprisonment in August 2023, Khan and his supporters have remained critical of the military. Following large-scale protests by the PTI in late November, which resulted in the deaths of 12 party workers and supporters, the party launched a social media campaign urging people to boycott businesses linked to the military's commercial interests. The campaign gained momentum after Khan threatened to start a civil disobedience movement. Qamar Cheema remarked, "If the PTI had not politicized state institutions, the TTP might not have been in a position to target this sector." During a news conference last year, ISPR chief General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry defended the military's economic role, stating that it had contributed over 100 billion rupees (USD 359 million) to the national budget in duties and taxes, with military-affiliated organizations paying an additional 260 billion rupees (USD 934 million) in taxes. Abdul Sayed, the researcher, noted that the Pakistan Taliban is seeking to take advantage of the current political turmoil, as the military faces ongoing criticism. Analysts are concerned that the Pakistan Taliban's new strategy could lead to a resurgence of widespread violence, especially in urban areas. Cheema noted that the TTP has recently threatened members of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). "We have seen the TTP target political parties in the past, but this indiscriminate assault on civilians is likely to backfire, although they may have the support of the Afghan Taliban," he stated. Imtiaz Gul from CRSS suggested that the Pakistan Taliban aims to pressure the military into stopping its cross-border strikes in Afghanistan. "The tensions with the Afghan government are due to Pakistan's aggressive military strategy, including airstrikes on Afghan territory. The TTP likely believes that threatening attacks on commercial interests will deter the military from further aggression," he explained. (ANI) The Ambassadors of Argentina and Uruguay, Mariano Caucino and Alberto Guani, paid a visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar today to offer their respects and enhance diplomatic relations between their countries and India. Ambassador Guani shared, "I have come here to express our gratitude on the new year and try to build closer ties between India and Uruguay." Meanwhile, Ambassador Caucino said, "We came here to pay our respects to the community, and to have the blessings for the prosperity and happiness of the Indian people and the relationship between our countries ... we are excited to be visiting for the first time." The visit is a significant gesture towards strengthening the diplomatic bond between Argentina, Uruguay, and India. Both Argentina and Uruguay have enjoyed strong ties with India across various sectors, including trade, defence, technology, and culture. Argentina and India celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations in February 2024, marking a deep and longstanding partnership that has been solidified through various official visits. Diplomatic relations between India and Argentina were first established in 1949, following the opening of India's trade commission in Buenos Aires. In 2019, India and Argentina elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, underscoring their mutual respect and shared democratic values. Argentina has also reciprocated India's diplomatic outreach, with the Indian Consulate General in Mumbai established in 2009. The countries continue to engage in cooperative exchanges, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Javier Milei maintaining positive ties, including social media exchanges celebrating each other's political victories. As for Uruguay, India established diplomatic relations with the country in 1960. India's Embassy in Buenos Aires also represents Uruguay, and bilateral interactions have been strengthened through high-level visits. Notably, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi visited Uruguay in 1968, and President Luis Lacalle Pou attended the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit in 2024. There are approximately 1,000 Indians living in Uruguay, with many working in the IT sector. The visits of both ambassadors reinforce the commitment of India to strengthening ties with both Argentina and Uruguay, with a focus on economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people connections. (ANI) China continued to encounter turbulence throughout 2024. However, all the difficulties that China is facing at home and abroad have made Chairman Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) more determined to throw their weight around and irrepressibly bully those who disagree with it. In the coming year, it appears greater tumult lies ahead for both China and those who deal with it. One critical area to watch in the coming year will be Sino-US relations after Donald Trump begins his second presidential term. Since Trump's election on November 5, 2024, and even before he is inaugurated on 20 January, China has pulled off many outrageous feats and set preconditions for ongoing bilateral ties. For example, Beijing has hacked the US Treasury Department and executed the "worst telecom hack in US history". China has also imposed severe export controls and sanctioned American firms. Lyle Morris, Senior Fellow for Foreign Policy and National Security at the US-based Asia Society Policy Institute's Center for China Analysis, made four predictions regarding Sino-US relations in 2025. Firstly, "China will focus its rhetoric on areas of potential cooperation with Washington, which will include attempts to establish a 'fresh start' with the newly elected US president. However, Beijing will likely adopt more aggressive language over US actions that it regards as harming its core interests, including Taiwan and the South China Sea." Secondly, the American academic foretold, "The United States will reach a consensus that China is its biggest strategic competitor, and China will continue to dominate the trade and national security agenda in Washington." Of course, Trump may act unpredictably, so their fragile relationship risks further destabilization. Third, "Forging discrete areas of cooperation will remain key to arresting acute strategic competition," predicted Morris. "Even though the chances of a genuine thaw that resolves fundamental differences and leads to greater cooperation are low in 2025, recent agreements to enhance military-to-military communications and working groups to combat the illicit fentanyl trade are examples of the kinds of cooperation that can build positive momentum." Finally, Lyle predicted, "Diplomatic engagement will remain a key source of structural stability in the bilateral relationship, and active diplomacy by both sides can keep ties from further fraying in 2025." However, questions remain over China's commitment to keeping communication channels open. The socialist regime has very thin skin, and it tends to pout and give the cold shoulder when it feels offended. Consider also that Xi has had plenty of time to plan ahead on how to handle the USA under Trump a second time around. In Trump's first presidency, China scrambled for appropriate responses, but now Xi is more ready and will likely employ retaliation, adaptation and diversification at various points of their relationship. China's economy is arguably more self-reliant now, whilst the US economy is more fragile and its political spectrum is deeply divided. China is already tightening the screws on private Western and American companies operating in China, and Xi may use Elon Musk's financial interests there to exert influence on Trump too. Furthermore, China will doubtlessly be hoping that Trump's erratic behavior will alienate friendly nations and acquaintances in Asia and elsewhere around the world. Beijing will seek every opportunity to present its alternative worldview, and it is now better equipped to respond to Trump's mercantile gamesmanship. Xi continues to remonstrate with the Chinese people to "struggle" against the "dangerous storms" lashing it. And struggle is what the Chinese government and military did against all-comers last year. Its prime target has been Taiwan, but it continues to contest Japanese-owned islands in the East China Sea as well. To illustrate, the number of Chinese government vessels spotted by the Japan Coast Guard in the Senkaku Islands contiguous zone hit 1,351 vessels, covering 355 out of 366 days, in 2024. This was the third record year in a row. China has upped the ante of incursions and is using larger vessels too. Chinese ships are also accused of sabotaging undersea cables in both Europe and Asia. In the latest incident, on 3 January the cargo ship Shunxing39 is believed to have damaged a seabed communications cable - part of the Trans-Pacific Express Cable System that connects Taiwan's internet with the US west coast - after dragging its anchor and charting a crisscrossing course north of Taiwan for several days. The ship is registered to a Hong Kong company, whose director is from China. Such sabotage is common by Russia in places like the Baltic Sea, and China seems to be using the same playbook. Cutting such underwater cables is the ultimate gray-zone activity, for civilian-flagged vessels can claim it was accidental. Therefore, as China exerts evermore pressure on Taiwan, we might expect Beijing to repeat such a modus operandi to further isolate and antagonize Taipei, as well as use intensified military incursions and multiple forms of coercion against the democratic state. As well as the above actions during the intervening period between Trump's election and swearing-in ceremony, China's military has been very active. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted the largest naval drills in decades, specifically rehearsing how to cut off Taiwan and intercept American military assets from reinforcing the island. The PLA also practiced a naval blockade near Japanese islands for the first time, as well as continuing to agitate in the South China Sea with its maritime militia and law enforcement fleets. The Philippines has borne the brunt of China's wrath in the South China Sea. As soon as Manila began asserting its legal rights in the maritime area and complained against Chinese encroachment, Beijing removed the velvet glove from its iron fist. There have been repeated clashes in various locations, including Philippine efforts to resupply its garrison at Second Thomas Shoal well within its own exclusive economic zone. Commodore Jay Tarriela, Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Human Resource Management of the Philippine Coast Guard, has highlighted numerous nefarious activities by China. He noted, for example, "It's clear that the Chinese Coast Guard is engaging in automatic identification system (AIS) spoofing to mislead the international community, confuse authorities and instigate public concern. It's particularly ironic that maritime safety, a fundamental responsibility of any coast guard organization, is compromised by China's disregard for the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, especially the mandatory AIS requirements outlined in Chapter V for certain vessels." Tarriela accused China of exploiting AIS signals of other vessels for their spoofing activities, and said it is likely utilizing dredgers to help facilitate this AIS manipulation. Technologically, the PLA is advancing at a rapid drumbeat, showing and introducing equipment in classes not even the USA is currently fielding. For example, China recently launched its first Type 076 amphibious vessel, the largest of its kind in the world, and one that can accommodate fighter jets on its flight deck. Add to that the stunning achievement of successfully staging the maiden flights of no fewer than two sixth-generation aircraft types plus a new airborne early warning variant of the Y-20 aircraft on December 26, 2024, and it can be seen that Chinese confidence and technological knowhow is soaring. Not nearly so much is heard of Xi's blue-ribbon Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Launched in 2013, BRI is now more than a decade old but it is in decline after peaking in 2018. Instead, China has transferred its attention to three vague initiatives launched in 2021-22: the Global Data Security Initiative, Global Development Initiative and Global Security Initiative. All this - as well as Chinese and Russian efforts to promote the BRICS grouping and to attract new members - are designed to exert greater influence over the Global South and to contribute to either the perception or reality of a US decline. Indeed, Xi remains a stalwart support of Vladimir Putin, despite his military failures in his Ukraine war. Beijing pretends to be neutral, but most thinking people realize China is anything but impartial. It remains firmly on Moscow's side. As Hua Chunying, China's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, said soon after the Russian invasion, "China stands ready to join hands with Russia and all other progressive forces around the world who oppose hegemony and power politics, to reject any unilateralism, protectionism and bullying, firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests and uphold international fairness and justice." Such comments are laughable. Like in George Orwell's dystopian vision of the future, the CCP has stripped language of meaning. The Chinese regime twists and eradicates ideas opposed to its own version of reality, and so phrases like "progressive forces" and "upholding international fairness and justice" have no meaning in China. Reality and truth are the real enemies to regimes like the CCP. Hua also went on to say: "We Chinese value peace, harmony, sincerity and integrity. We never pick a fight or bully others, but we have principles and guts." Again, such statements about "peace and harmony" are completely at odds with China's aggressive behavior. Still, not everyone in the world recognizes the odious ideologies and aims that lie behind China's thinly veiled veneer of uprightness. Human rights are almost nonexistent in China, and yet Beijing is promoting such policies and vision to the rest of the world. Unfortunately, international attention on China's detention centers for Uyghurs in Xinjiang has waned, but China's trampling of human rights has not disappeared. Indeed, as at the end of 2024, there were at least 218 "custody centers" dotted around China to support China's liuzhi (literally "retention in custody") policy. This detention system was established under China's National Supervisory Commission set up in 2018. A recent report published by the CNN believes the number of detention centers is much higher than that. Additionally, provinces with higher numbers of ethnic minorities have greater concentrations of detention centers. Furthermore, the CNN investigation found at least 127 senior executives of publicly listed firms have been imprisoned. Such detainees caught up in Xi's anti-graft crackdown can be held for six months without seeing a lawyer or family members, plus the system is prone to abuse in terms of torture and ill treatment. Hong Kong, as far as China is concerned, is a success story. The territory's police apparatus, a blunt political tool in the CCP's hands, has stifled all dissent and every form of public protest. Ongoing prosecutions for spurious crimes such as wearing T- shirts with slogans are more than enough to remind the populace to toe the line and to avoid complaining about the CCP's lackeys in charge there. Since around 2020, thousands deserted Hong Kong, unwilling to live in such a police state. Indeed, from 2020-22, the territory's labor force declined by 1,40,000. Nonetheless, the Hong Kong government is happily replacing these emigres with people from mainland China. Interestingly, the territory's population increased 2.1 per cent from mid-2022 to mid-2023, mostly due to immigration from China. Around a third of Hong Kong's current population has actually originated from China, indicating the great demographic shift that has occurred there. However, corruption and political schisms continue to afflict the CCP, adding to Xi's paranoia over job security. The year 2023 was a bad one already, as Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Defense Minister Li Shangfu bit the dust. Also to fall victim were the top two commanders of the PLA Rocket Force. Yet, 2024's anti-graft campaign netted even more high-profile military leaders, a 25 per cent jump in fact. A record number of 56 senior cadres at the vice-ministerial level or above were investigated in 2024. Does this mean that Xi would therefore be cautious about sending the PLA into a conflict, because he lacks full confidence in the purity of the military? Euan Graham, a Senior Analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, noted, "Corruption is endemic to CCP governance. Even deeply corrupt militaries (Ukraine) can fight very well, while combat itself is a sort of reform (Russia)." Unfortunately, more tensions, more confrontations and greater unpredictability are on the cards for 2025. This is the great vision, the "community of common destiny", that Xi and China are offering the world. (ANI) The school building of Shree Bhimgithe Secondary School, Baglung built with India's financial assistance has been handed over on Tuesday. The project carried under 'Nepal-India Development Cooperation' was formally handed over to School Management Committee jointly by Amar Bahadur Thapa, Chief, District Coordination Committee, Baglung, Gandaki Thapa Adhikari, Chairman, Badigad Rural Municipality, Baglung and Avinash Kumar Singh, Counsellor, Embassy of India, Kathmandu. "The Government of India's grant under 'Nepal-India Development Cooperation' was utilized for the construction of school building and other allied facilities. The project was taken up as a High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) and was implemented through District Coordination Committee, Baglung," a release from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu stated. Chief, District Coordination Committee, Baglung, Chairman, Badigad Rural Municipality, Political representatives and Chairperson, School Management appreciated the continued developmental support of the Government of India in the upliftment of the people of Nepal. "The infrastructure created would be useful in providing education to students of Shree Bhimgithe Secondary School in Baglung. It would also help create an improved environment for learning and contribute to the overall development of the education sector in the region," the release stated. "As close neighbours, India and Nepal share wide-ranging and multi-sectoral cooperation. The implementation of HICDPs reflects the continued support of the Government of India in bolstering the efforts of the Government of Nepal in upliftment of its people by augmenting infrastructure in priority sectors," the release added further. Shree Bhimgithe Secondary School was established in the year 1958 as primary school and upgraded to lower secondary school in the year 1968. Further, this school was upgraded to Secondary level in the year 1988. The school is providing education to students of Class 1 to 12. The school has around 700 students, 54 per cent of which are girls. Political representatives, government officials and social workers were also present on the occasion. (ANI) Altaf Hussain, the founder and leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), has urgently called on United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to intervene in the case of Muhammad Kamran, an MQM activist who was forcibly disappeared last month. In a post on X, Hussain described the dire situation faced by the Mohajir community, particularly MQM members, emphasising a disturbing pattern of human rights violations. He alleged that party activists are being systematically targeted through enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. https://x.com/AltafHussain_90/status/1876382698651955608 Highlighting the recent abduction of Kamran, Hussain stated that he was taken by Pakistan's paramilitary Rangers on December 9, 2024, during a visit to Azizabad, Karachi, to pay homage to MQM martyrs. Kamran's fate and location remain unknown despite a habeas corpus petition filed in the Sindh High Court. Hussain voiced his deep concern for Kamran's safety and urged the UN Secretary-General to press the Pakistani government for answers. He condemned the ongoing crackdown on MQM members and called for global attention to the plight of his party's supporters. In his letter to the UN, Hussain highlighted the broader persecution faced by the Mohajir community, accusing Pakistan's military and intelligence agencies of employing violent tactics and illegal detentions to stifle dissent. He wrote, "I humbly request you to raise it with the government of Pakistan and seek clarification as to why my millions of followers are not allowed to freely associate themselves with their chosen political party." He further stated, "We are and will keep continuing to inform the relevant UN bodies of these atrocities." Hussain's appeal underscores the urgency of international solidarity in addressing these alleged human rights abuses. He expressed hope that Antonio Guterres' intervention would help protect the fundamental rights of all Pakistanis, including the Mohajirs, and ensure accountability for these violations. As the case of Muhammad Kamran unfolds, Hussain remains resolute in his mission to bring global attention to the challenges faced by MQM members and to secure justice for those who have been targeted. (ANI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday embarked on a five-day official visit to United Kingdom (UK), Scotland and Guernsey, an official statement said. Birla is visiting the UK from January 7-9 at the invitation of Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons of Parliament of the UK. He will meet Hoyle and McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London, the statement added. Among his other engagements in London, Birla will visit B R Ambedkar Museum, pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi and interact with members of Indian diaspora in the UK, the statement said. Birla will also visit Scotland and meet Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, and John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. He will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament. Birla will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) on January 10 in Guernsey. He will chair this meeting in his capacity as the host of the 28th CSPOC which will be held in India in 2026. He will also meet his counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of this meeting. In a post on X, he said, "Leaving for UK and Guernsey, at the invitation of Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker, House of Commons. Will hold bilateral meetings with him and Rt. Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith, Lord Speaker of the House of Lords in London. Will visit Dr. B. R. Ambedkar House and Museum and pay floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Will also interact with members of the Indian diaspora in the UK." https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325032521265344 "In Scotland, will meet Rt. Hon. Alison Johnstone MSP, Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, and Rt. Hon. John Swinney MSP, First Minister of Scotland. Will also interact with cross-party Members of the Scottish Parliament," he added. https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325039207027157 https://x.com/ombirlakota/status/1876325044126880025 "In Guernsey, will chair the meeting of the Standing Committee of Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in my capacity as the host of 28th CSPOC to be held in India in 2026. Will also meet my counterparts from other Parliaments on the sidelines of the meeting," Birla said. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed his optimism about the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and believed that the event would be a success. Jaishankar, while talking to ANI, said that the convention will offer a valuable opportunity for interaction between the diaspora and the ministers, who will highlight the country's development in past years. "The arrangements are good. The convention will start from tomorrow. The Youth PBD will be held tomorrow, as is customary. On January 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention. On January 10, President Droupadi Murmu will also be there and will confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on 27 distinguished members of the Indian diaspora. Different panels are also set up. Several ministers will be there and explain to the diaspora the developments that have taken place in India," he told ANI. Jaishankar also emphasised that the event will provide grounds for Odisha's tourism to spread across the world. "I believe the event will be good. I would like to say that the special element of coming to Odisha is that the culture, heritage, and history of Odisha are to be kept in front of our Indian community, which is spread all over the world. And how to take Odisha to the global stage with that experience after the PBD. There will be three different exhibitions, which will be interesting. And it will be an opportunity to connect with the people of Orissa," he said. Jaishankar further told ANI that intellectuals do not go empty-handed. They spread the word among others. This is how the diaspora will tell others and encourage them to visit Odisha. "Intellectuals don't go empty-handed. In the Gulf, there are 90 lakhs of Indian citizens, and a large number of them are from Orissa. So, people go out to work because the world has become a global workplace. These people then become a bridge for us. They create an impression of Indians in the outside world. This shows that as people leave India, they remain rooted here. They are an investment of India to the world," he said. Jaishankar further expressed his optimism and said that just as it happened after the G20, even PBD will help enhance tourism in Odisha. "I think that there will be good development of tourism in Orissa. Because if you think about it, just like what happened in G20, every person who comes, becomes an influencer. He will go to his country, to his family, and encourage others, that this was a very good experience for him, you should also go there. So tourism will get an increase. And it will become a global image of Orissa," he told 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 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention will take place in Bhubaneswar from 8-10 January. (ANI) US President Joe Biden has said he is "proud" to call Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau his "friend" and would be forever grateful for his "partnership and leadership." Biden said that the alliance between the US and Canada is stronger due to Trudeau. Biden also recalled his last visit to Ottawa, where he had mentioned that the US chooses to link its future with Canada, knowing there is "no better ally, no closer partner and no steadier friend." His statement comes a day after Trudeau announced that he will be stepping down as Canada's PM and Liberal Party leader. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Biden stated, "The last time I visited Ottawa, I said that the United States chooses to link our future with Canada because we know that we'll find no better ally, no closer partner, and no steadier friend. The same can be said of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The US-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. I am proud to call him my friend. And I will be forever grateful for his partnership and leadership." In the statement released by the White House, Biden reflected that Trudeau was the first foreign leader he spoke with upon becoming President. The US President said that he held a conversation with Justin Trudeau on Monday and appreciated their enduring partnership over the years. He noted that they stood together with the people of Ukraine in the face of the Russian offensive. Joe Biden said that Trudeau, over the past decade, has led with "commitment, optimism, and strategic vision." In a statement, Biden stated, "When I became President, he was the first foreign leader I spoke with. I spoke to him yesterday and expressed my appreciation for his partnership over the years. Together, we've tackled some of the toughest issues our nations faced in decades, from the COVID-19 pandemic to climate change to the scourge of fentanyl." "We've stood together with the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression to defend our nation's most sacred value: freedom. And we have made generational investments to strengthen our supply chains and rebuild our economies from the bottom up and middle out--establishing North America as the most economically competitive region in the world," he added. On Monday, 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 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," he added. Trudeau said that he will not put forth his candidature as a potential Prime Minister. He said, "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 it is clear I can't be that candidate due to internal battles." (ANI) You are here: China Casualties were reported after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 a.m. Tuesday (Beijing Time). House collapses were reported in Tonglai Village, located in Changsuo Township of Dingri in Xigaze, also known as Shigatse. The county head of Dingri told Xinhua that the earthquake was distinctly felt in the county. Local authorities are reaching out to various townships in the county to assess the impact of the quake. The epicenter was monitored at 28.5 degrees north latitude and 87.45 degrees east longitude. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km, according to a report issued by the China Earthquake Networks Center. US President-elect Donald Trump has refused to rule out the use of military force to take control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, and "economic force" to acquire Canada, CNN reported. While addressing a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Florida on Tuesday (local time), Trump was asked whether he would rule out using "military or economic coercion" to achieve his goal of gaining those territories. He responded, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security." Trump said Denmark should give up its control of Greenland or it would face high tariffs. He suggested people of Greenland could vote for independence or to become the part of the United States. He said, "I'm talking about protecting the free world." Since his election, Trump has repeatedly expressed his interest in gaining control of the Panama Canal and Greenland. Trump for the first time on Tuesday suggested using the military to achieve his goal, according to a CNN report. Trump said later that he would only use "economic force" and not military force against Canada. When asked whether he would also use the military to acquire Canada, Trump responded, "No, economic force." He continued, "You get rid of that artificially drawn line and you take a look at what that looks like -- and it would also be much better for national security." In recent weeks, Trump in his social media posts has said that Canada should become the 51st state of the US. He even used Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his plan to step down as PM and Liberal Party leader to reiterate his stance that Canada becomes the 51st state of the US. During the press conference on Tuesday, Trump criticised former US President Jimmy Carter's decision to hand control of the Panama Canal back to Panama during his presidency, CNN reported. Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29, negotiated treaties that provided for the handover of the Panama Canal to Panama. He said, "The Panama Canal is a disgrace." Trump said, "What took place at the Panama Canal, Jimmy Carter gave it to them for USD 1 and they were supposed to treat us well." The US President-elect said that he wants to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. He said, "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory, the Gulf of America -- what a beautiful name. And it's appropriate." He slammed the Biden administration's handling of the transition ahead of his inauguration ceremony on January 20. Trump said the Biden administration is "trying everything they can to make it more difficult" and wants to "block the reforms of the American people and that they voted for," according to CNN. "They say we're going to have a smooth transition. All they do is talk. It's all talk. Everything they do is talk, 'We're going to have a smooth transition.' And then they take 625 million acres, and they essentially landmark it, so you can't ever drill there again. Well, we're going to be drilling soon," he said. Trump's remarks come a day after US Congress certified his election victory 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, The Hill reported. 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. (ANI) A Bucks County judge has ordered an an Upper Makefield mother convicted of murdering her two sons to pay her ex-husband more than $200,000 in a wrongful death claim. Court of Common Pleas Judge Robert Baldi entered the default judgement for $220,000 against 41-year-old Trinh Nguyen in November after she failed to take action against the claim filed by her ex-husband, Edward Tini of Philadelphia. Nguyen is serving a double life sentence plus 20 years in state prison in Muncy, a sentence handed down last year after she pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree murder in the May 2, 2022 deaths of 13-year-old Jeffrey Tini and 9-year-old Nelson Tini. Jeffrey "JT" Tini, 13, and his brother, Nelson Tini, 9, were shot in their home Monday, May 2, 2022. Their mother, Trinh Nguyen, has been convicted in the case. Can this 1951 murder mystery be solved? The 1951 death of a newborn in Bucks County is among Pa.'s coldest cases. What we know. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nguyen shot and fatally wounded her sons as they slept in their beds of their Upper Makefield home. The boys succumbed to their injuries four days later. Nguyen also pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Edward Tinis adult nephew. Attorney Douglas Mormello Jr., who represented Edward Tini, did not immediately return an email seeking comment Tuesday. Edward Tini and the estate of Nelson Tini filed a wrongful death suit last January, shortly after Nguyen was sentenced, seeking reimbursement for funeral costs, estate administration expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The suit argued that Nguyen is ineligible to receive anything from her son Nelson Tinis estate under the Pennsylvania Slayer Statute, which bars convicted murderers from receiving any benefit as a result of a death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edward Tini is the executor for Nelson Tinis estate. While both boys carried Edward Tinis last name, Jeffery Tinis biological father was Nguyens first husband, whom she divorced in 2009. Nelson Tini was born in 2012. Edward Tini and Nguyen married in 2015, and divorced in 2021; they had shared custody of Nelson Tini. Nguyen has another adult son, who was Jeffrey Tinis biological older brother, and raised by his father, Nguyens first husband. The amount of money that the court awarded Edward Tini matches the payout Nguyen received at the time of the couples divorce in 2021, according to court records. At trial, Nguyen was represented by the public defenders office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The murders of the brothers shocked the Upper Makefield community where the family lived. A motive for the murders has never been revealed, but it occurred the day before Nguyen and her sons were to be evicted from a rented three-bedroom Timber Ridge Road home for failing to pay more than $11,000 in rent. Hours after shooting her sons, and attempting to shoot her ex-husbands nephew, Nguyen was arrested in the parking lot of a nearby church. Authorities said Nguyen had heroin in her system in what police described as a suicide attempt. Shortly after her arrest Nguyen was involuntarily committed to Norristown State Psychiatric Hospital for treatment. She remained there until last year, when she was found to be mentally competent to stand trial. (The headline for this story has been changed because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.) Reporter Jo Ciavaglia can be reached at jciavaglia@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Trinh Nguyen ordered to pay claim in murder of sons Jeffrey and Nelson 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. We will never know the internal strength needed by Vice President Kamala Harris to preside over the official certification of her own electoral defeat. On the anniversary of a Capitol rampage perpetrated by fans of the 45th and now 47th president, Harris fulfilled her duties with grace and with dignity. Difficult as it is, the Democrats in Congress have all acknowledged the results of the 2024 election. Many of the Republicans, on the other hand, who stood in the congressional chamber and applauded Harris quick and seamless certification never publicly accepted the legitimacy of President Joe Bidens win. I hope all the lawmakers in that room never forget what Jan. 6, 2021, felt like. We have moved past that travesty, but we should never remove the jarring memory of that day. Through this remembering we honor those injured both physically and psychologically and reaffirm our nations core values and the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it is not lost on me that Harris presided over the certification ceremony just two days after voting rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer received the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously at the White House. Hamers image is seared into national history as a Black female civil rights warrior who boldly challenged the status quo by demanding that she and other activists be recognized at the 1964 Democratic National Convention as members of the integrated Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. Hamer claimed that Mississippis official delegation was not legally representative because Blacks were systematically denied the right to vote. And she used her moment in the national spotlight to tell the delegates and all of America about the dangers voting rights activists faced in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Hamer had once said that her home state of Mississippi was the land of the tree and the home of the grave, referring to lynchings and other forms of racial violence. In June 1963 Hamer was brutally beaten in jail by law enforcement officers in Winona, Mississippi. Law enforcement officers forced Black prisoners in the jail to participate in Hamers assault. She almost died. The violence was grotesquely harsh even by Jim Crow standards. Hamer was alternately battered by two Black prisoners, Roosevelt Knox and Sol Poe, who were reportedly ordered to strike Hamer or face a beating themselves. She was forced to lie face down as the two prisoners pummeled her with loaded blackjacks police clubs filled at the ends with sand or metal pellets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Hamer drifted back into consciousness, she overheard the officers discussing the possibility of throwing her into the river. Hamer never fully recovered. She partially lost sight in one eye, walked with a limp and suffered permanent and debilitating kidney damage that may have contributed to her death at age 59 in 1977. Both of these things a Black woman presiding over the peaceful transfer of power and a Black woman beaten to within an inch of her life for trying to register Black voters happened within my lifetime. And while they are separated by more than half a century, these historic markers are directly connected to each other. Together, they send a powerful message, especially to Democrats trying to find their way forward after a stinging defeat. Part of the message is simple. Keep going. Fight to hold America up to her professed values. Hamer did not expect to see the change she was fighting for in her lifetime. But she was stubborn enough to believe in the rights spelled out under the Constitution. Stubborn enough to persist even after she almost lost everything, including her life Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you look very closely at the footage of Hamer speaking at the 1964 convention, you can hear the strength in her voice, but you can also see the physical wounds from that jailhouse beatdown. Hamers strength, courage and persistence are worth noting in a country where voting rights are still challenged and voter turnout overall remains depressingly low. And they are worth noting because it is not ancient history. Hamer was pushing for voting rights in the early 60s at a time when only a tiny number of Black citizens in Mississippi were allowed to vote and when people who attempted to register had to have their names published in Mississippi newspapers for two consecutive weeks. That public declaration meant aspiring to exercise your constitutional right could lead to all kinds of retribution. Threats. Harassment. Job loss. Death. Hamer faced many of those consequences. She lost work. So did her adopted daughter and her husband. The family had to live with friends whose homes were sometimes shot up and vandalized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Hamer famously said she was sick and tired of being sick and tired, it is easy to see how she could have stepped away from her crusade to tend to her wounds or her marriage or her family. But she kept going. And she helped shove this country forward. At the White House this weekend her niece Doris Hamer Richardson accepted the Medal of Freedom on her behalf. At the ceremony it was noted that Hamer reminded America that no one is free until everyone is free. Two days later, Kamala Harris asserted that Americas democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it. The messages then and now are similar. Keep going. Keep fighting. We have learned that democracy is fragile. It is not guaranteed. And we also know this: Democracy at its best is a verb. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com PROVIDENCE Rhode Island lost an unapologetic, tireless voice for the state's homeless and vulnerable residents with the death last month of outspoken advocate Ruth Diamond Madsen. Madsen, 56, died Dec. 18 at The Miriam Hospital after rising from the streets and overcoming the stranglehold of a substance use disorder to become a champion for the community she embraced. Anything you needed, she helped you get it. She was an angel to everybody, helping out, said Jane Richmond, who knew Madsen from time both spent on the streets and their love of dogs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She did everything for the community. She helped you find shelter, where to get food, Richmond said Saturday outside Mathewson Street United Methodist Church following a memorial service for her friend. Diamond Madsen's brother, AJ, left, sister Lorraine Gonzalez, middle, and daughter, Lashaun Middleton, embrace at a memorial service on Jan. 4. A powerful force Madsen made for a powerful force, known for speaking candidly, and frequently, about the plight of the community she knew so well. A year ago, she addressed state lawmakers about the desperate need for housing and wrap-around-services for vulnerable Rhode Islanders after losing three people experiencing homelessness. We need to be here for these people now, Madsen implored those gathered in the State House library. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madsen was an active member of the Mathewson Street Church community, handing out winter jackets and socks and assisting with the Friendship Breakfast, a Sunday morning meal and prayer service intended for those in need. She was a longtime member of the Tenderloin Opera Company, a theater and music group that aims to tell the story of homelessness in Rhode Island through writing, music, and performance. She worked with Direct Action for Rights and Equality: DARE, The George Wiley Center, the Poor People's Campaign, Amos House and more. She often cooked meals for friends and family, as well as the hungry. She built a reputation for speaking out for the downtrodden and not being afraid to call out people in positions of authority. She had a long phone list of connections that she didnt hesitate to call on for help noon or night. Ruth "Diamond" Madsen A loud voice and a heart full of love Kevin Simon, director of outreach for the Mathewson Street Church, asked the crowd gathered Saturday to raise a hand if they had been inspired or helped by Madsen. Every one of the more than 100 people in attendance raised a hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no one and there will never be anyone like Diamond, Simon said. She led by doing. Madsen had a loud voice and a heart so full of love, he said. Lashaun Middleton, Madsens daughter, urged the crowd to draw on her mothers example. Be kind to animals; when you come across a homeless person, give them grace. And thats what she did. She gave everyone grace, Middleton said. HUD releases grim 2024 homeless statistics Madsens death, which advocates reported was due to long-term health effects associated with years living unsheltered, came as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued grim findings on the state of homelessness in America in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the so-called point-in-time estimates, a total of 2,442 people experienced homelessness in Rhode Island in 2024, a 35% increase from 2023, ranking as the sixth highest uptick among states. From 2007 through 2024, the homelessness numbers increased in the Ocean State by 78%. And Rhode Island ranked second in the nation behind Washington in the percentage of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. As of November, of this year, Rhode Island had 1,430 unhoused people in emergency shelters and 625 living outside without shelter, for a total of 2,055 people. This represents a doubling of homelessness and an increase of 78% in unsheltered homelessness since 2019, according to the Rhode Island Homeless Advocacy Project. Diamond always commanded the room. She was a big pain in the ass whether you liked it or not, said Laura Jaworski, executive director of House of Hope Community Development Corporation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madsen was unafraid to speak truth to people in power, she said. Its exactly what we need ... Its a big loss. Its a big hit. An advocate, but much more Madsen was born into the foster care system just one of the hardships she used as building blocks for her resiliency and advocacy work. She was adopted by Bruce Madsen and raised in Trumbull, Connecticut. In a way, her work started early, feeding the homeless, Bruce Madsen said Saturday about Diamond adopting a cat at age 3 and acting as a welcoming older sister to other children taken in by the family. In effect, she was helping the homeless all her life, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was a phone call away, Lashaun Middleton said, adding that in addition to being an advocate, her mother was a figure skater, equestrian and studied culinary arts. She was a dope mom who always ended her calls by quipping `love you smooches,' she said. In addition to her father and daughter, she was survived by a son Davon Middleton, of Bridgeport, Connecticut. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: A tireless advocate for the homeless, RI's Diamond Madsen dies 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 Facing threats from China, Taiwan has reportedly developed a new hypersonic missile which can travel at speeds of Mach 6. The new hypersonic missile named Qingtian has a range exceeding 1243 miles (2000 kilometers), and is being mass produced, as per a report by Liberty Time Net. As per the report, the hypersonic cruise missile will enter service with the Army in the near future. The reports also state that Taiwan is trying to develop a system that will allow it to also be deployed from mobile launchers. It is in talks with a Czech firm, and also an American one for the possibility of making mobile launchers. Taiwans new hypersonic missile Qingtian Qingtian - the hypersonic missile - builds on the Yunfeng and Yungeng II programs, as per a report by Army Recognition. It has advanced features in range, speed, and operational flexibility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also reports that some units of the missile have already been delivered to Taiwans air force missile brigades. Its development was led by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), and it was supported by the Taiwanese Ministry of National Defenses National Defense Advanced Technology Research Plan. Taiwan is considering the Czech-made Tatra Force 12X12 trucks for their off-road capabilities, adaptability to mountainous terrain, and maneuverability. Moreover, the American Oshkosh M983 is also being touted as an alternative platform for the hypersonic missile. The Mach 6 speed ability to travel at six times the speed of sound will make it difficult for the enemy air defense systems to track and intercept it once it is fired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, in the past decade Taiwan had developed the Yun Feng supersonic land-attack cruise missile. It had a range of 745 miles (1,200 km), and an extended range variant with over 1,243 mile range was also developed. The Yun Feng used a ramjet engine with solid-fueled booster, and had become operational in 2014. In 2019, as per CSIS, the missile had started serial production of the missile. China threat to Taiwan China has kept on applying more pressure on Taiwan and its other neighbors in the Indo-Pacific region. The escalating tensions in the region had fueled Taiwans push for a hypersonic missile system. Earlier in 2024, Taiwan had revealed its plans to develop supersonic combustion ramjet (scramjet) technology for hypersonic weapons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the key benefits of the hypersonic missile system is that it can reach the top of the Earths atmosphere and remain just beyond the range of air and missile defense systems until they are ready to strike, and by then its too late to react. In December 2024, United States Army and Navy had announced the successful testing of a conventional hypersonic missile. It was the first live-fire event for the long-range hypersonic weapon (LRHW) system using a battery operations center and a transporter erector launcher. The LRHW also known as Dark Eagle has a reported range of 1,725 miles, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service. Apart from the US, China and Russia also have hypersonic weapons in their arsenal. India too had announced the successful test-firing of a 930-mile range hypersonic weapon in 2024. 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. MANILA, Jan 08 (News On Japan) - This year marks 80 years since the end of World War II, yet some individuals in the Philippines, torn apart from their Japanese parents during the war, continue to live as "stateless" citizens. An investigation sheds light on the lives of these Japanese descendants. Five hours from Manila by propeller plane and boat lies the small island of Linapacan, devoid of modern amenities like electricity and paved roads. Among its residents are Japanese descendants forced to live a life of statelessness. Lydia Morine (84): (Q. What was your father's name?) Kamata Morine. (Q. Where was he from?) Okinawa. Lydia and her sister Esperanza Morine, daughters of a Japanese father and a Filipino mother, recount their experiences. Before the war, many Japanese migrated to the Philippines to engage in abaca farming, with the population reaching as many as 30,000 at its peak. Many Japanese settlers married locals and started families. However, when Japan invaded the U.S.-controlled Philippines, tensions rose. Filipino guerrillas targeted Japanese soldiers and civilians, including Japanese migrants. The sisters father was killed during the war, and their lives changed drastically. Lydia Morine: Our relatives did not let us use our father's surname. If people found out we were Japanese children, we could have been killed. Hiding their Japanese heritage, the sisters lived in fear. After the war, they remained stateless. At the time, Philippine law stipulated that children inherited their fathers nationality. However, due to the chaos of the war and the lack of documentation, many second-generation Japanese left behind on remote islands could not claim Japanese citizenship. The sisters had long hoped to obtain Japanese nationality. Esperanza Morine: (Q. Why do you want to become Japanese?) Because my father was Japanese. Japanese blood flows in me. Struggles of the Filipino Stateless Japanese Lawyer Hiroyuki Kawai has long worked to help Filipino Japanese descendants recover their nationality. Kawai: She has a Japanese name, Haruko. The evidence is almost solid. Kawai and his colleagues have submitted evidence collected from Filipino Japanese descendants to Japanese family courts, successfully restoring the nationality of 319 individuals so far. Kawai: Nationality and identity are crucial. The plea to be recognized by their homeland as Japanese is a fundamental human desire. While parallels can be drawn to the issue of Chinese war orphans, Kawai points out that the Philippine case differs. Kawai: In China, it was part of a national immigration policy, but in the Philippines, it was purely private immigration. Despite both being victims of Japans war policies, they have been treated differently. Though the plight of the Filipino stateless Japanese has been raised in political discussions multiple times, comprehensive solutions have not materialized, leaving them neglected for 80 years. Carlos Teraoka (94), who once lived as a stateless Japanese and campaigned for collective aid, expressed his frustration. Carlos Teraoka: We were victims of the war. We were caught up in it and suffered greatly because of it. Yet, the Japanese government did not help us, despite our repeated pleas. We were abandoned and forgotten. According to recent data, around 400 stateless Japanese descendants remain in the Philippines. Together with lawyer Kawai, Norihiro Inomata of the NPO Philippine Nikkei-Jin Legal Support Center has been assisting Japanese descendants in regaining their nationality. He visited the Morine sisters to gather more evidence. Lydia Morine: My mother told me that my father had a thick beard that covered most of his face. He was a fisherman and owned a boat. With only fragments of memories from their mother, the sisters relied on scant information about their father. Lydia Morine: (Q. What was your father's name?) Kamata Morine. (Q. Where was he from?) Okinawa. Based on their testimony, a pre-war passport record of a man named Kamata Morine from Okinawa, who had migrated to the Philippines, was discovered. However, Inomata noted that this alone was insufficient. Inomata: They need to prepare evidence proving the father-child relationship. This process takes time, and our support is crucial. In pursuit of more evidence, Inomata traced Kamata Morines roots in Okinawa. After locating the listed birthplace, Inomata found a database of immigration records at the prefectural library. Searching for Kamata Morine, he found that the man had traveled twice to the Philippines for fishing, consistent with the sisters account. Further investigation revealed that Morine had a younger brother who also migrated to the Philippines. Inomata: We learned that the brothers family is still alive. If we can obtain testimony confirming that Kamata Morine had a family in the Philippines, it would serve as crucial evidence for nationality restoration. Eventually, they managed to contact the grandson of Morines brother, who confirmed that Morine had migrated to the Philippines and died there during the war. In September last year, the evidence was accepted, and the Morine sisters nationality was restored. When interviewed, the sisters shared their feelings about finally regaining their Japanese nationality. Lydia Morine: (Q. How do you feel about regaining your Japanese nationality?) I am overwhelmed with happiness. I am deeply grateful to be recognized as Japanese. Eighty years after the war, the sisters, who lived as stateless individuals, expressed their long-standing sentiments toward Japan. Lydia Morine: (Q. It took a very long time. How do you feel about Japan?) Although it took time, I am very thankful to the Japanese government. I want to meet my Japanese relatives. (Q. What would you do if you met them?) I would like to hug them, spend time together, and talk about the years that have passed. The aging of stateless Japanese descendants in the Philippines is accelerating, underscoring the urgency of nationality restoration. As of the end of March 2023, the Philippine Nikkei-Jin Legal Support Center reported a total of 3,815 Japanese descendants. Among them, 1,615 have recovered their nationality, while 1,799 died without citizenship. Currently, 401 remain stateless. In 2019, the number of stateless individuals stood at 1,069. Over four years, 668 passed away without achieving nationality restoration. Kawai, who has been supporting stateless Japanese descendants for years, warned that without swift action, the issue will vanish without resolution. In May last year, Takahiro Hanada, Consul General of the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines, visited Morine and other Japanese descendants, conducting individual interviews and promising prompt support for nationality restoration. In a statement on October 19, Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya remarked, Travel to Japan by the stateless Japanese descendants is a significant opportunity to gather necessary information for nationality restoration. We will continue working with relevant agencies to implement measures. However, challenges remain. In addition to support and investigation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, birth records and other documents are necessary, making it difficult to assist all individuals. Kyoko Ishii, secretary general of the Philippine Nikkei-Jin Legal Support Center, emphasized the urgent need for a political solution. Ishii: Many individuals lack birth or marriage records. We urge the government to consider a collective rescue approach for those seeking Japanese nationality. Source: ANN In todays fast-changing tech world, efficient application management is crucial. Organizations now see application management services (AMS) as essential for operations and strategy. Application Management Services aim to improve app performance and IT processes. These application services support business goals and enable digital transformation. As we move into 2025, the demand for these services will rise. This is driven by the need for agility and resilience in a competitive market. This article reviews the top 10 companies in application management services (AMS). It highlights their contributions and technological advances. Additionally, we discuss AMS benefits, market trends, and tips for choosing a provider. Understanding Application Management Services Effective application Management Services are vital for better business and customer satisfaction. These management services manage, monitor, and maintain applications to ensure efficiency and alignment with goals. AMS uses cloud computing and predictive analytics to cut costs and boost efficiency. This, in turn, enhances customer satisfaction and offers insights into business processes. By selecting a good AMS provider, businesses gain a competitive edge. This ensures their technology remains strong and ready for the future. List of Top 10 Application Management Service Companies As tech evolves quickly, application management services are vital. They help businesses meet their goals efficiently. Below is a snapshot of the top 10 companies dominating this sector, gearing up to shape the future by 2025. Hexaware Company Background: Indian IT powerhouse turned global digital transformation leader. Core Offerings: Application Management Services, Data and AI services, Cloud services, and Generative AI services. Strengths: Expertise in generative AI, Global delivery model, Diverse Industry experience, Agile and tailored solutions. Innovation: Generative AI in application development platform, Cloud Migration platform, and IT operation automation platform. Global Reach: Operations across America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Accenture Company Background: A global consulting giant with a strong tech focus. Core Offerings: Cloud computing, predictive maintenance, AI-driven solutions. Strengths: Comprehensive market reach, and advanced analytics. Innovation: AI and machine learning initiatives. Global Reach: Extensive office operations in over 50 countries. IBM Company Background: Legacy tech pioneer turned cloud and AI leader. Core Offerings: Hybrid cloud, Watson AI, enterprise application modernization. Strengths: Research capabilities, enterprise-scale solutions. Innovation: Quantum computing, cognitive solutions. Global Reach: Present in over 170 countries. TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) Company Background: Indias largest IT services firm. Core Offerings: Digital transformation, consulting, AMS solutions. Strengths: Machine-first delivery model, large talent pool. Innovation: TCS Pace digital innovation platform. Global Reach: Operations in 46 countries. Infosys Company Background: Global technology services leader. Core Offerings: Digital services, cloud transformation, AI platforms. Strengths: Engineering excellence, innovative delivery models. Innovation: Live Enterprise platform, Cobalt cloud solutions. Global Reach: Presence in 50+ countries. Wipro Company Background: Diversified tech services and consulting firm. Core Offerings: Digital strategy, cloud services, engineering. Strengths: Digital transformation capabilities, and industry expertise. Innovation: HOLMES AI platform, automation solutions. Global Reach: Operations in 66 countries. HCLTech Company Background: Technology firm with engineering heritage. Core Offerings: Digital solutions, cloud services, IoT. Strengths: Product engineering, legacy modernization. Innovation: DRYiCE autonomous platform. Global Reach: Present in 52 countries. Cognizant Company Background: Digital transformation and technology services specialist. Core Offerings: Digital engineering, cloud enablement, IoT. Strengths: Industry-specific solutions, and digital operations. Innovation: Digital operations framework. Global Reach: Operations in 35+ countries. DXC Technology Company Background: Formed from HP Enterprise Services merger. Core Offerings: Enterprise technology stack, security solutions. Strengths: Legacy system integration, and security expertise. Innovation: Platform DXC, security solutions. Global Reach: Serves clients in 70+ countries. Tech Mahindra Company Background: Part of Mahindra Group, a tech services leader. Core Offerings: Digital transformation, BPO, consulting. Strengths: Telecom expertise, manufacturing solutions. Innovation: GAiA AI platform, 5G solutions. Global Reach: Present in 90+ countries. These companies shape the future of app management. They invest in advanced tech and innovative solutions. This ensures high customer satisfaction and better operations. Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) and AMS Planning an applications journey begins with ALM. This critical AMS element oversees development, maintenance, and eventual retirement. By integrating ALM, organizations ensure quality control and continuous improvement. As business needs evolve, ALM adapts applications accordingly. This end-to-end management approach spans applications throughout their lifecycle, from initial conception to final phase-out. ALM guides each step, ensuring alignment with business goals at every stage. Ultimately, it ensures technology evolves in harmony with ever-changing business objectives. The Core Stages of the Application Lifecycle ALM encompasses several stages: Planning: Outlining the applications purpose, features, and business goals. Development: Creating the application using modern technologies and methodologies. Testing: Ensuring quality and identifying issues early. Deployment: Implementing the application within the business environment. Maintenance: Regular updates and enhancements to adapt to changes. Retirement: Phasing out the application when it becomes obsolete. Integrating ALM into AMS helps businesses. It keeps apps well-maintained, up-to-date, and aligned with goals. This maximizes performance and minimizes downtime. Types of Application Management Services Businesses need to understand various application services to pick the best one for their needs. Heres a look at the essential application management services that boost success: Preventive Maintenance Services These services aim to proactively address potential issues before they impact performance. Predictive analytics and advanced tech enable preventive maintenance. It keeps systems running without disruptions. This boosts customer satisfaction and efficiency. Corrective Maintenance Services Corrective maintenance fixes problems as they happen. By quickly addressing these issues, companies reduce downtime. This approach helps them stay competitive and ensures smooth customer interactions. Adaptive Maintenance Services Adaptive maintenance updates software for new environments or technologies. This keeps applications relevant, functional, and aligned with changing business goals and technology. Perfective Maintenance Services These services make features better, enhancing user experience and product value. Perfective maintenance sparks innovation, allowing companies to offer better solutions and stay competitive. Cloud Application Management Managing applications in the cloud offers scalability, real-time updates, and cost savings. Cloud computing cuts development and operational costs. It speeds up the time to market by enabling faster deployment and efficient resource use. Legacy Application Management Updating old systems keeps them useful and insightful. This service protects data, extends application life, and cuts business costs. Each AMS type is vital for businesses to meet goals and customer needs. Together, they ensure applications are functional, adaptable, and efficient in a fast-paced market. Benefits of Application Management Services to Your Business AMS, or Application Management Services, can greatly improve business operations. Cost Optimization By utilizing AMS, businesses can achieve remarkable cost savings. Providers handle daily tasks and applications, cutting development and operational costs. Improved Efficiency AMS enhances operational efficiency by streamlining complex processes and automating repetitive tasks. This optimization leads to a faster time to market, providing a competitive edge. Enhanced Security AMS ensures robust security by employing advanced technologies and real-time monitoring. This proactive approach helps protect customer data and improves customer satisfaction. Scalability With modern application services, businesses can easily scale their tech stacks to meet growing demands. Cloud computing solutions offered by any reputable AMS provider allow organizations to expand seamlessly. Focus on Core Business AMS can handle routine tasks and operations. This lets companies focus on their core business goals. This shift enables them to innovate and meet customer needs more effectively. In short, AMS helps businesses cut costs, boost efficiency, and secure systems. It also scales operations and aligns with goals. This leads to lasting success. Current Market Landscape The market for application management services is set to grow. This growth reflects a rising reliance on digital solutions to improve business processes. Companies aim to succeed by cutting costs, enhancing customer experience, and boosting satisfaction. These goals are driving demand. Key Market Drivers The need for cost savings in development and operational costs. The rise of predictive analytics, cloud computing, and virtual assistants. Businesses face pressure to innovate and speed up time to market. Enhanced requirements for predictive maintenance and actionable insights for better customer interactions. Challenges Managing vast amounts of data efficiently. Addressing security concerns associated with cloud computing and tech stacks. The ongoing challenge of adapting to new technologies. Regional Market Dynamics Growth is expected in all regions. North America will lead, thanks to its strong tech ecosystem. In contrast, Asia-Pacific will likely see strong growth. Emerging tech firms and a fast rise in cloud services will drive it. Europe is recognizing the need for customer service in finance and supply chains. Its vital for a competitive edge. The evolving landscape shows that service providers are key. They will shape the future of application management services. Ten Steps to Choose the Right AMS Provider Choosing the right Application Management Services (AMS) provider requires several key steps. They ensure alignment with your business goals and needs. Step1: Assess Your Business Needs Identify the specific services and support your organization needs. This will improve business processes and customer satisfaction. Step 2: Define Your Budget Balance your budget wisely. Spend within your limits, but dont skimp on quality. Find that sweet spot where cost meets worth. Step 3: Evaluate Technical Expertise Confirm your provider boasts the skills to navigate your tech stack. They should have the prowess to keep you ahead of the competition. Step 4: Check Security Credentials Protecting sensitive data is vital for customer trust. Scrutinize the providers security measures. Verify their protocols to safeguard information. Ensure that robust protection systems are in place. Step 5: Review Service Level Agreements Assess SLAs for alignment with service goals and financial targets. Do they meet user needs? Can you afford them? Balance expectations against costs to optimize your agreements. Step 6: Assess Cultural Fit A strong cultural fit transforms communication into a smooth dialogue. It enhances collaboration, paving the way for business success. With everyone aligned, goals become attainable, and progress flourishes. Step 7: Verify References Reach out to former clients and discover their satisfaction levels. Uncover how well the provider met their business ambitions. This feedback is pure gold for polishing future partnerships. Step 8: Consider Geographic Location Proximity can affect real-time support and collaboration dynamics. Nearby partners provide prompt assistance, while far-off colleagues encounter difficulties. Consider time zones, travel costs, and cultural differences when choosing partners. Step 9: Analyze Support Models Assess your customer interaction needs, then check if the providers support frameworks align. Ensure their systems can handle your specific requirements effectively. Step 10: Review Contract Terms Before signing, examine the contract in detail. Uncover any lurking expenses or unfavorable stipulations. This final step protects your interests and ensures a fair deal. These steps will help you pick an AMS provider that fits your business goals. The right fit can boost efficiency, cut costs, and drive growth. It lets you focus on customer satisfaction and staying competitive. Compare your options with careful consideration of long-term benefits. Factors to Consider When Selecting an AMS Choosing the right AMS company is crucial in optimizing your business operations. From technical compatibility to robust support and compliance, each factor plays a role. These factors among others ensure smooth and efficient management of your apps. Lets take a closer look at the key factors to consider: When evaluating application services providers, look for companies that use new technology and ideas to stay ahead of their competitors. Experience and Expertise Choose partners with proven success in your industry. They should understand your needs and the rules. A partner with similar experience makes communication easier. This leads to better solutions, quicker rollout, and lower costs. So, look for a company that has done similar projects or faces the same needs. Technology Stack Check their technology to ensure it works well with yours and supports growth. This review helps identify issues like outdated software applications or mismatched hardware. Such problems can slow growth. For example, mismatched payment systems and e-commerce setups can cause delays and losses. Understanding their technology ensures smooth integration, supports goals, and avoids problems. Pricing Models Choose pricing models that are clear, adaptable, and fit your budget. Pick providers who transparently share costs and offer customizable plans. For example, subscriptions might be cheaper than pay-per-use. They would be easier to manage. This way, you ensure value, avoid surprises, and stay within budget. Support Coverage Check the support team to ensure they are always available and quick to respond. Downtime can hurt your business and reputation. For example, Gartner via ITPro Today, reported that IT downtime costs firms $5,600 per minute. Make sure that the companys support team can resolve problems without delay. This reduces downtime and keeps the business running. A good team uses ticket systems and knowledge bases for fast solutions. They also communicate in an open manner and provide updates to everyone on progress. This ensures smooth operations and happy customers. Security Measures Pick companies with strong security, like encryption and firewalls. They will protect your data from hackers. Also, look for those with a good record in safeguarding information, such as Google. This strategy helps prevent breaches, like Yahoos in 2013 and provides peace of mind. Compliance Standards Choose an AMS provider that follows strict industry rules, like PCI-DSS and GDPR. They must comply with data privacy laws. This prevents non-compliance and protects against fines, legal problems, and losing customer trust. With a compliant provider, you keep customer data safe and stay competitive. It also shows youre committed to excellence and transparency, boosting your credibility. Innovation Capabilities When evaluating application services providers, look for companies that use new technology and ideas to stay ahead of their competitors. For example, a firm may leverage AI for customer service or blockchain for secure transactions. Such innovation fosters growth and competitiveness. It also sparks creativity among employees, leading to new solutions. Client References Ask for references or case studies to check providers performance and customer satisfaction. This step is vital for assessing their credibility and reliability. You might request previous clients contact info to hear about their experiences. Alternatively, examining case studies can be insightful. Youll see the challenges faced, solutions applied, and results achieved. This analysis helps you understand the providers strengths and weaknesses, aiding your decision-making. When picking an Application Management Service provider, a comparison table is key. The right partner boosts efficiency and business success. For example, Amazons application management enhances operations, cuts costs, and increases productivity. A bad choice results in inefficiencies, downtime, and a loss of competitiveness. Technology Trends Driving AMS Evolution The evolution of Application Management Services (AMS) is significantly influenced by emerging technology trends. These trends are driving efficiencies and enabling businesses to adapt more quickly to changing market needs. Key technological advancements include Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and the increasing reliance on cloud-native solutions. Successful Application Monitoring Tools With the advance of technologies, successful application monitoring tools have become a must. They enable real-time monitoring, quick problem-solving, and app performance optimization. Such monitoring tools are powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning. They locate issues before users do. They automate troubleshooting and provide insights into app health, security, and performance. Integrating these tools into AMS helps businesses. It keeps apps running and improves user experience. Related Solutions Enhancing AMS Evolution To stay competitive, many organizations are integrating related solutions into their AMS strategies. These solutions are revolutionizing how applications are managed and enhanced. Some of the related solutions include: AI and Machine Learning Integration The fusion of AI and machine learning is transforming AMS into a powerful tool. Advanced data analytics deliver actionable insights, turning data into a treasure trove. Businesses can elevate customer experiences, crafting connections that delight and endure. With the ability to manage vast data streams, efficiency reigns supreme. Cloud-native Solutions Service providers now deploy cloud-native solutions, unlocking scalability and elasticity. This shift lets businesses cut costs, speed up launches, and outpace rivals. The result? An agile, cost-effective approach thats reshaping industries. Automation and DevOps DevOps and automation join forces, streamlining software creation and slashing costs. This powerful duo eliminates mundane work, accelerates development, and fine-tunes business operations. The results are faster, leaner, and more efficient production cycles. They boost profits and drive innovation. Cybersecurity Advancements Cyber threats evolve rapidly, pushing AMS firms to bolster defenses. Cutting-edge security safeguards sensitive client information. This vigilance fosters trust, keeping customers content. Robust protocols are the bedrock of data protection. It is a critical priority in todays digital world. Sustainability Initiatives Sustainable practices fuel AMS innovation. These practices reduce costs and optimize resources while promoting environmental care. Progressive companies adopt eco-friendly solutions. This approach meets financial goals and fulfills social responsibility. It appeals to organizations aiming for a positive global impact. AMS innovation surges forward, fueled by evolving trends shaping the future. These shifts create cutting-edge solutions. They drive businesses to great success in a changing market. The Future of Application Management Services: Trends to Watch in 2025 By 2025, Application Management Services (AMS) will change significantly. Key trends include integrating advanced analytics and predictive maintenance. This will allow providers to offer real-time, actionable insights, improving customer satisfaction. Cloud computing will remain dominant, providing scalable, cost-effective solutions. It will cut costs and speed up market entry. It will do this by automating processes and reducing repetitive tasks. Virtual assistants will use AI in customer interactions, which will be vital for enhancing services. These tools will help companies stay competitive, optimize tasks, and save costs. We will focus on collaborative tech stacks. They will strengthen the supply chain and finance systems. This approach will be key to business success. Companies will align AMS strategies with their main goals. This will ensure integration and adaptation to market changes. Industry-Specific Solutions Today, businesses increasingly seek solutions tailored to their specific needs. These solutions meet the unique needs of finance, supply chain, and customer service. Financial institutions use advanced analytics for actionable insights. This saves costs by optimizing operations. In supply chain management, cloud computing offers real-time data. This improves maintenance and boosts customer satisfaction. Also, sectors with high customer interactions need innovative solutions. Virtual assistants can handle repetitive tasks. They will improve the customer experience and reduce time to market. Many tech companies are now building specialized tech stacks. These stacks include features that give a competitive edge. They are designed to meet specific industry needs. This helps service providers reach their business goals by improving processes. Companies that invest in these advanced technologies stay ahead of the competition. Solutions tailored to specific industries are transforming the business world. They offer strategic and technological benefits across different sectors. FAQs About Application Management Services What are Application Management Services (AMS)? Application Management Services (AMS) involve outsourcing some IT tasks to experts. They support and manage applications. The goal is to improve performance, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. For example, a company might outsource application maintenance. Doing so allows its IT team to focus on strategic projects. As a result, application performance improves, IT costs drop, and customer service enhances. Time is crucial in business, and these services help keep companies competitive. Why are AMSs important? AMS experts reduce downtime, enhance business performance, and provide technical expertise. By handling maintenance and support, AMSs allow companies to focus on growth. Outsourcing IT tasks ensures smooth service and a competitive edge. AMS expertise saves money and shifts resources to key projects. These services help boost productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction. How do AMSs improve customer experience? AMS enhances customer interactions by keeping applications updated and error-free. This ensures smooth, frustration-free experiences. For example, a banks mobile app can be upgraded to show real-time transactions. This enhancement improves user experience and increases customer satisfaction. As a result, satisfaction and loyalty rise. Better experiences build trust and credibility, leading to growth and success. What services are included in AMS? AMS provides services to keep apps running smoothly. Experts monitor performance to catch issues early. They update apps regularly to keep up with changing markets. When problems arise, they are fixed quickly to minimize downtime. User support helps employees use apps effectively. Performance optimization fine-tunes apps for business needs. Can AMS help with routine tasks? AMS can transform businesses by automating simple tasks. This saves time and resources for strategic goals. The technology ensures consistency and efficiency, boosting productivity and satisfaction. It handles data entry, reports, and workflows. This lets employees focus on important, creative work. Automation reduces errors, saves time, and improves budget use. Companies can then adapt, innovate, and stay competitive. What benefits do AMS providers offer? AMS providers offer advantages that can transform business operations. They help companies save money by reducing operational and development costs. IBM, for example, saved millions by outsourcing its IT infrastructure. This allowed IBM to focus on more strategic initiatives. AMS providers quickly launch new applications, helping businesses stay competitive. PayPal, a fintech company, teamed up with an AMS provider to roll out a mobile payment solution in six months. AMS providers boost business with automation, AI, and machine learning. This makes processes faster and improves customer satisfaction. What should I consider when choosing an AMS provider? When choosing an AMS provider, first check their experience with similar businesses. Then, review their services, such as setup, customization, and support. Next, see if they can adapt to your needs and evaluate their tech skills. Can they integrate with your systems? Do they stay updated on trends? Also, assess their customer support. Is it responsive? Do they offer various contact methods? The right provider should align with your goals and boost operations and revenue. Can AMS be customized? Yes, AMS can be tailored to business needs, ensuring the right level of support and management. AMS automates tasks, allowing staff to focus on important work. It saves time and shifts resources to product development and customer service. This boosts productivity and competitiveness. Companies also use application management services for predictive analytics. This helps them analyze customer behavior and make informed decisions. Conclusion and Final Thoughts By 2025, top companies using advanced technologies will reshape Application Management Services (AMS). They want to improve customer satisfaction. They will use tools like predictive analytics and cloud computing to innovate. Also, they will use virtual assistants. It will cut costs and give a competitive edge, especially in finance and the supply chain. Providers are now using real-time data and analytics to improve services. They streamline processes and enhance customer interactions. This approach helps businesses meet customer demands and achieve goals. Predictive maintenance and automation also cut time to market and support growth. Cutting-edge tech firms pave the way for AMS leaders. Their innovations enable seamless services and data management. They are vital for success in tomorrows world. These trailblazers shape the future of business success. By Francis Ugwu Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the alleged inflammatory remarks made by the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Felix Morka, against Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP. Atiku insisted that the APC should issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian people for such disgraceful language. The ex-VP also frowned at the continued detention of Mahdi Shehu, an activist, over allegations of sharing a misleading video that has gone viral online, reportedly by the Department of State Services, DSS. Atiku said the action serves as a disturbing emblem of the current administrations unsettling strategy in addressing opposition figures. The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate in the last general election stated that the development signals a worrisome shift towards an authoritarian governance model, where the rights of opposition voices are being suffocated. DAILY POST reported that Morka, in an interview with Arise TV on Sunday, said, Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times, and he has whats coming to him. Whatever he gets, he should manage it. However, Atiku, in a statement on Tuesday, said the threat against Obi, coupled with the prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu, signals a worrisome shift towards an authoritarian governance model. He said: The inflammatory remarks issued by the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Felix Morka, directed at @PeterObi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election, serve as a disturbing emblem of the current administrations unsettling strategy in addressing opposition figures. This threat against Obi, coupled with the prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu, a prominent voice of dissent and others, signals a worrisome shift towards an authoritarian governance model, where the rights of opposition voices are being suffocated. The choice of words used by the APCs spokesperson, particularly the ominous suggestion that Obi has crossed the line, reveals an alarming disdain for democratic principles. Such language, rooted in hostility, has no place in a free society where civil discourse and engagement should reign supreme. A true democracy thrives on the healthy exchange of ideas, where the criticisms and contributions of opposition leaders, like Peter Obi, are seen as vital for the betterment of governance and the promotion of public accountability. It is not merely the right, but the solemn duty of a democratic government to listen attentively to the voices of its critics, to engage in meaningful dialogue, and to allow space for the articulation of alternative viewpoints. Instead, we are faced with a chilling threat that suggests Obi must be ready for whatever comes his way. What, exactly, does Mr. Morka imply by this? It is imperative that the ruling party provides clarity on this disturbing insinuation. Equally troubling is the crude and disparaging manner in which the APC spokesperson has framed Peter Obis calls for constructive engagement, likening them to a lawless Wild West scenario. Such reckless and derogatory expressions cannot be tolerated, and it is incumbent upon the APC to issue a formal apology to Obi and the Nigerian people for such disgraceful language. The case of Mallam Shehu, languishing in detention without any clear explanation for his continued imprisonment, adds to the growing concern about the erosion of freedoms in Nigeria. If there is anyone who has truly crossed the line, it is the Tinubu administration, whose continuous vilification of opposition figures as mere irritants to be crushed is a dangerous precedent. It is now time for all men and women of goodwill to intervene, urging the @officialABAT government to recalibrate its approach to dealing with dissent and opposition. The time has come to put an end to this stifling of voices that are crucial to the health of any functioning democracy. AA Since the ousting of Syrian president Bashar Assad, there has been a surge in Russian air and maritime traffic to Libya, where Moscow seeks a new Mediterranean hub. Flights increased from the Syrian Hmeimim base to Al Khadims airbase in the Libyan desert, where Russia was transferring its military equipment, according to data analyzed by CNN. The Libyan base would help Russia maintain its growing influence in Sub-Sahara Africa among the military-ruled states as well as to project power in the Mediterranean, where it has endured a setback following the fall of its ally in Damascus. Since the fall of Assad, there has been at least one flight a day from Hmeimim to Al Khadim by giant carriers such as Antonov AN-124 transport planes, as well as Ilyushin IL-76 aircraft. US military told CNN the transported equipment includes Russian air defense systems. On January 3, The Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reports a flotilla of Russian ships will be arriving in the Syrian port of Tartus in the coming days to transfer equipment, with some destined for Libya, according to a report on the Maritime Executive, a specialized news website. Malis security forces said they have arrested two individuals in a special operation, one of whom is a prominent and leading figure in the Islamic State groups Sahel branch. Malian army, which has been fighting an Islamist insurgency for years, has also reported that several fighters from the terrorist group were killed on Saturday (4 January) during the operation in the northern part of the West African country. The Malian Armed Forces said in a statement that they had detained Mahamad Ould Erkehile, aka Abu Rakia, along with Abu Hash, identified as a key leader of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS). He is accused of coordinating the worst atrocities committed against civilians in the Menaka and Gao regions in northeastern Mali, as well as assaults on the army. The Islamist insurgency is widely seen as a key reason for the instability that has spread through the Sahel region. For the past twelve years, Mali has been grappling with significant instability linked to militants affiliated with both the Islamist State and Al-Qaeda, in addition to local criminal organizations. Principal investigations confirm that he collaborated actively with Abu Huzeifa and Osama Madalo, two terrorist leaders who were previously neutralized, Malis military added. In May 2022, the junta-ruled government severed ties with France, its former colonial ruler, and has gradually shifted its military and political alliances towards Russia. The Republic of Ghana has decided to suspend its diplomatic relations with the Polisario Front, according to an official document sent Tuesday from Ghanas Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration to Moroccos Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ghana also confirmed it would promptly notify, via diplomatic channels, the Government of Morocco, the African Union, and the United Nations of this stance. In the same communication, Ghana expressed its support for Moroccos good faith efforts in pursuing a solution to the Sahara issue that is acceptable to all parties. This diplomatic shift comes amid the strengthening of bilateral relations between Morocco and Ghana, particularly in trade and investment. Over recent decades, both countries have significantly expanded their economic ties. In January 2023, they signed a double taxation agreement to avoid tax duplication and combat tax evasion, providing greater clarity and facilitating smoother trade. Ghana has become one of Moroccos key trading partners within ECOWAS. Moroccan exports to Ghana have grown at an average annual rate of 14% over the past 20 years, increasing from approximately $5 million in 1995 to $133 million in 2021. Major Moroccan exports include raw sugar, processed and frozen fish, while Ghana exports tropical fruits, cocoa powder, and bran to Morocco. Investment ties have also deepened. Moroccan companies such as BMCE Bank, CIMAF (cement manufacturer), Addoha (real estate group), and OCP (fertilizer giant) have established a solid presence in Ghana. In 2023, the Moroccan furniture company KITEA opened its first store in Accra, further cementing this growing investment trend. Ghana had recognized the Polisario in 1979. However, since 2000, 46 countriesincluding 13 African nationshave severed or suspended their ties with the self-proclaimed entity, spurred by Moroccos diplomatic initiatives under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. Kenyan president William Ruto has received the most votes and has thus become together with Nigerian president Bola Ahmed Tinubu one of the top five 2024 finalists for the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) Person of the Year award. Ruto received an unprecedented number of 40,000 nominations for Person of the Year in organized crime and corruption due to popular anger over the passage of a contentious a finance bill, youth unemployment, and government corruption in the east African country. Young Kenyans held demonstrations for weeks this past June and July last year, demanding that Ruto step down. Security forces responded with tear gas, water cannons, arrests, and bullets many people were killed, injured, or went missing following the protests. Nigerias president Bola Ahmed Tinubu ranked third, following Indonesias former president Joko Widodo, in light of repeated allegations of his involvement in drug trafficking, forgery, and financial malpractice. The ousted Syrian president Bashar al-Assad was chosen as the overall winner, as the former dictator has been accused of leading his countrys production and distribution of the highly addictive street drug Captagon, earning billions of dollars to operate prisons and maintain his brutal authoritarian rule. For the first time in the contests 13-year history, the judges have awarded a special Lifetime Non-Achievement Award that goes to Equatorial Guinea president Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, one of the longest serving dictators in the world. Instead of developing his natural resources endowed country into a model for Africa, Theodoro Obiang has squandered its natural resources, living an obscenely lavish lifestyle while the rest of the population suffers in poverty. The OCCRP highlights both Assad and Obiang as examples of longtime dictatorial regimes, in which corruption plays a critical role. Barrick Gold, the second largest gold mining company globally, said it mulls stopping production at its mine in Mali if the ban on shipments was not lifted. The company made the threat in reaction to measures by Bamako authorities to renegotiate the permit in order to have a bigger share of operations in the gold mine. Barrick Gold, whose Loulo-Gounkoto mining complex in Mali accounts for around 14% of its 2025 estimated gold output, has been in a dispute with the countrys government over a contract based on new mining rules since 2023. Mali issued an arrest warrant against Barrick Chief Executive Mark Bristow. Mali and other military-ruled states in the Sahel have pushed for renegotiating deals with western mine operators, surfing on a wave of anti-western sentiment. Mali, Africas second-largest gold producer in 2023 and 11th globally, has a 20% stake in the Loulo-Gounkoto mine, with Barrick holding the remaining 80%. Evoking the colonial origins of Algerias current borders is a taboo issue in Algeria that can send those who venture to tell the truth to jail. That was the fate of Boualem Sansal who said in an interview with a French TV channel that western territories of todays Algeria have been part of Morocco. Sansal has been behind bars since mid-November, facing charges of terrorism and undermining national unity for saying historical truths about the colonial history of Algerias borders. Algerias president ranted at Sansal calling him an imposturewho does not know his father, in a violent reaction to Sansals remarks which are known to all the globes historians, except Algerians. When Algeria obtained its independence in 1962, it inherited large swathes of lands amputated by colonial powers from Morocco and Tunisia. Morocco rejected to negotiate the borders with French colonial powers, opting instead for backing the Algerian resistance and the provisional government GPRA, which promised the late King Mohammed V to redraw borders upon independence. Discussing the borders took the form of the Sand War after the military coup that set Algeria on a territorial consolidation course to the detriment of its neighbors, notably Morocco. While Morocco has no territorial claims in nowadays Algeria, Rabat has called for normal ties and freedom of movement that would make the borders a mere administrative issue instead of a divisive factor. Algeria, under its current leadership, has made history a new battle ground. It has instructed its mouthpieces in the media and the academic circle to demonize Morocco and erase any Moroccan contribution to Algerian independence. As a nation-state, Algeria in its current form has no precedent in history and should rather accept the fact that it is a state forged by colonialism instead of fabricating a false national narrative based on falsifying history, because history repeats itself. A ceremony was held lately in Bamako in honor of 100 Imams who graduated from the Rabat-based Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidine, and Morchidates. Out of 300 graduates from the Mohammed VI Institute, the 100 imams received their diplomas following a two-year training program that covered counter-terrorism and violent extremism. Simultaneously, they received practical education in various trades including mechanics, refrigeration, and carpentry. Prime Minister Brigadier General Abdoulaye Maiga who presided over the ceremony said the Institutes training program aligns with the nations development goals. The completion of this training marks the beginning of a new mission, and we count on the entire Muslim community to achieve the objectives set by Malis highest authorities, the Prime Minister said. General Maiga expressed his appreciation for Moroccos support and solidarity towards Mali. This experience calls for more collaboration, he said, noting that King Mohammed VIs efforts, as Commander of the Faithful, to promote Islam are well-known and supported by concrete actions. He believes that the partnership between Morocco and Mali demonstrates both countries shared vision of strengthening universal values of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and mutual respect. Addressing the graduating imams, Brigadier General Abdoulaye Maiga stated that they have reached a decisive milestone in their spiritual journey through training at the King Mohammed VI Institute in Rabat, dedicated to promoting peaceful, tolerant, and moderate Islam. During the ceremony, the head of government reminded the imams that their greatest challenge lies in applying the knowledge and skills acquired during their training. He urged them to serve as role models and reference points for the entire Muslim community, emphasizing that while expectations are high, they match the imams capabilities. He encouraged them to proudly fulfill their noble mission by teaching an Islam of peace, unity, and tolerance, free from extremism. Multidisciplinary Training for Imams Societal Role Beyond religious education promoting moderate and tolerant Islam that breaks from extremist ideologies, the training at the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines, and Morchidates included practical instruction in various trades and societal skills. The goal was to equip them with technical competencies to better integrate into their communities socio-economic fabric upon returning to Mali. Their role extends beyond spiritual guidance to include active community engagement. Being able to provide practical advice across various trades will enable these imams to position themselves as essential actors in local development and community cohesion. Their multidisciplinary training strengthens their legitimacy and ability to provide concrete solutions to their congregations concerns. The Palestinian Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mohammad Mustafa Mohamed Najm, praised, on Monday in Ramallah, the prominent role of King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, in supporting the resilience of the Palestinian people and protecting Islamic holy sites, particularly the Al-Aqsa Mosque. During a meeting with Moroccos Ambassador to Palestine, Abderrahim Meziane, the Palestinian official commended Moroccos steadfast positions in defending Al-Quds and supporting its population, reported the Palestinian news agency WAFA. The meeting provided opportunity to explore ways to enhance religious cooperation between the two countries, address various matters of mutual interest, and implement the memorandum of cooperation signed between the two parties. This memorandum includes provisions for the exchange of expertise in mosque and Quranic school management, the development of media programs for religious awareness, and plans for the administration of preaching and guidance. On this occasion, the Palestinian official emphasized that strengthening religious cooperation with Morocco reflects the deep bonds of brotherhood between the two nations, noting that sharing expertise and experiences with Moroccos Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs will positively impact the development of the Palestinian ministrys programs, as well as the administration of religious endowments and educational projects. For his part, Meziane affirmed that cooperation with the State of Palestine holds a priority position in Moroccos agenda and that the Kingdom remains committed to providing continuous support to Palestinian institutions, particularly in the fields of religious education and endowment management. Photo: Evan Vucci/AP Photo If you thought Donald Trumps plans for world domination would stop at unhinged threats to take over Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal, think again. The president-elect fully entered his imperialism era on Tuesday, announcing offhandedly that hes changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday morning was ostensibly about his economic agenda, but Trump played all the hits, trashing windmills, President Biden, electric heaters, special counsel Jack Smith, and various federal judges. Then, amid meandering criticisms of the United States neighbors, Trump mentioned, Were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America: Were going to be announcing at a future date, pretty soon, were going to change, because we do most of the work there and its ours, were going to be changing sort of the opposite of Biden where hes closing everything up, essentially getting rid of 50 to 60 trillion dollars worth of assets were going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. That covers a lot of territory. The Gulf of America, what a beautiful name. And its appropriate, its appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country. They can stop them. And were going to put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada, because Canada, they come through Canada, too, and the drugs that are coming through are record numbers. Trump: "We're going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America." (He's serious.) pic.twitter.com/qHB7A7aqzm Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) January 7, 2025 Before he was even done taking questions, Representative Majorie Taylor Greene announced that she would introduce legislation to formally change the name of the body of water. Its unclear if this is the announcement at a future date that Trump referred to, or if MTG sprang into action to make Trumps rambling into reality. President Trumps second term is off to a GREAT start. Ill be introducing legislation ASAP to officially change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to its rightful name, the Gulf of America! pic.twitter.com/uFlrNkw7c6 Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) January 7, 2025 This actually isnt the first time a lawmaker has proposed the name change. Back in 2012, a Mississippi state representative introduced a bill calling for the part of the Gulf that touches his state to be renamed the Gulf of America. But the Democrat later said he wasnt serious; the legislation was meant to satirize extreme GOP rhetoric. Trump didnt appear to be joking, though his proposal is as ridiculous as the post-9/11 attempt to make freedom fries happen. As the St. Augustine Record noted back in 2012, the Gulf of Mexico actually predates the United States. The name appears on maps as far back as the 16th century: Baptiste Boazio, the illustrator and mapmaker of Francis Drakes Caribbean cruise of attacks in the 1580s, used Gulf of Mexico on his map View of Entire Route of Sir Francis Drakes West Indian Voyage. The 1591 de Bry map also uses Gulf of Mexico. But it seems Trump 2.0 is going to be all about him trying to reshape the world according to his whims. Well be lucky if we get out of the next four years as the United States of America, not the United States of Trump. Photo: Doug Mills/The New York Times/Redux When it comes to Melania Trump, the perennial question is: What is she thinking? The once-and-future First Ladys latest puzzling move was revealed on Sunday, when Amazon announced that Prime Video will release a documentary about Melania in the second half of 2025, in theaters and on the streaming service. The behind-the-scenes look at Melanias life is being directed by Brett Ratner, who was canceled following sexual harassment and misconduct allegations in 2017. While the way Melania engages with the public has always been unpredictable, it isnt all that shocking that shes partnering with the Jeff Bezosfounded company on a film project. Though she skipped nearly all of Donald Trumps 2024 campaign, Melania has been far more visible since October, when she released her best-selling memoir. And while Bezos clashed with Trump during his first term, hes been a prominent part of Silicon Valleys kowtowing to Trump 2.0. In recent months, Bezos (who stepped down as Amazon CEO in 2021 but is still the companys executive chairman and biggest shareholder) has praised Trump, killed the Washington Posts Kamala Harris endorsement, donated to the Trump inaugural fund, and dined with the president-elect (and Melania) at Mar-a-Lago. What is quite strange is the selection of Ratner to direct. He directed and produced multiple blockbuster films, including the Rush Hour film series, Red Dragon, and X-Men: The Last Stand. But he hasnt worked on a major Hollywood production since six women accused him of sexual harassment and misconduct in a 2017 Los Angeles Times expose. In the piece, actress Natasha Henstridge claimed Ratner forced her to perform oral sex, and Olivia Munn said the director masturbated in front of her when she went to deliver food to his trailer. Ratner denied all of the allegations, and no charges were brought against him. But he was dropped by his agency, and since then his attempts at a comeback have failed. So why did Melania, who is an executive producer on the film, decide to work with Ratner when so many in Hollywood have refused to welcome him back? As a self-described cancel culture victim, does she identify with Ratner? Is she a huge X-Men fan? Was she unable to find any other big names willing to be associated with the MAGA movement? Has Ratner struck up a friendship with the Trump family? Semafors Ben Smith reported: One person who spoke to Semafor said theyd been surprised that Ratner, who reportedly lives in Israel now, had recently been seen at Mar-a-Lago. Last year, he and US President-elect Donald Trump were reportedly among the guests at the wedding of the son of businessman Al Malnik, who is close to Ratner. For now, Melanias reasons for agreeing to work with Ratner are a mystery, much like her financial incentives. Smith also reported, Amazon didnt immediately respond to an inquiry as to whether the Trump family or organization is being compensated for participating in the film. We may never get an answer, but presumably making a film with Amazon pays a lot better than hawking ugly jewelry and NFTs online. This post has been updated. Giuliani enters a Manhattan courthouse on November 7, 2024. Photo: Cristina Matuozzi/Sipa USA/AP Images Rudy Giulianis legal morass has, incredibly, gotten even worse. On Monday the former New York mayor was found in contempt of court for failing to turn over assets to two Georgia election workers he defamed. Manhattan federal judge Lewis Liman said he will rule on appropriate sanctions against Giuliani at a later time. Liman said Giuliani willfully flouted court orders, and he put little stock in his self-serving testimony. He has testified that he did not respond because he suspected the motives of plaintiffs counsel. That is not an excuse for violating the courts orders. Liman said in court, per CNN. More important, as the court informed the defendant, if there was reason to believe the plaintiffs counsel misused discovery or would misuse discovery, he could raise that with the court. It was not an excuse to take the law into his own hands, the judge added. In October, Giuliani was ordered to turn over almost everything he owns to election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, who in 2023 won a $148 million defamation judgement against him in federal court. While leading Donald Trumps effort to steal the 2020 election, Giuliani falsely accused the mother and daughter of stuffing the ballot box for Joe Biden. Last month Freeman and Moss asked Judge Liman to hold Giuliani in contempt, saying hes fought their efforts to collect what they are owed at every turn. While he has handed over some assets including dozens of luxury watches, a ring, and money from his bank account his Mercedes-Benz convertible hes missed multiple deadlines and claims he cant locate some items. For example, Giuliani turned over his Manhattan apartment and Mercede without the paperwork needed to monetize the assets, and he said hes lost track of a signed and framed Joe DiMaggio Yankees jersey that once hung above his fireplace. It is hard to square Mr. Giulianis position with reality, Aaron Nathan, a lawyer for Moss and Shaye, wrote in a recent letter to the court. Enough is enough. A day before the contempt hearing began last week, Giuliani asked to appear virtually, due to having medical issues with his left knee as well as breathing problems due to lung issues he sustained on 9/11. But Liman rejected the last-minute request, saying he had to appear in person. Giuliani testified in person on Friday, then appeared virtually on Monday from his Florida residence. Giuliani is facing a second contempt hearing on January 10 in Washington, D.C., before Judge Beryl Howell, who presided over the original defamation trial, per Politico: Freeman and Moss are asking Howell to hold Giuliani in contempt for violating an agreement not to make new defamatory claims about them. They say Giuliani renewed his false attacks during two recent podcast appearances. Giulianis legal troubles go far beyond the contempt hearings. On January 16, Judge Liman will hold a trial to decide whether Giuliani should be allowed to hold onto his Yankees World Series rings and his condo in Palm Beach, Florida. He has also been criminally indicted in Arizona and Georgia for his efforts to help Trump steal the 2020 election. And Trump cant pardon Giuliani in any of these state cases. Best in Class The Strategists carefully chosen and rigorously vetted flagship shopping guides. Learn about our methodology here, and find all our Best in Class guides here. Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers As a former restaurant chef, current recipe developer, and onetime dishwasher (I did all the dishes for the food truck I operated for seven years), I am constantly seeking the perfect sponge. At this point in my culinary career, I have tested at least 20 different brands of sponges. I generally keep three sponges of different levels of abrasion by my kitchen sink, rotating between them depending on the task: If Im cleaning glassware, dishes, pots and pans, my oven, or wiping down the counters. I have separate sets of sponges that live in my bathroom cabinets, for surfaces and for scrubbing the shower walls and tiles. For this guide, I set out to find the best sponge brands to tackle all of these tasks, but that also produce the least amount of weird sponge slime when hanging out in my soap dish, and would help me minimize the use of plastics in my kitchen (whether by being made from sustainable materials or ones that were so durable, I wouldnt have to constantly throw out used ones). If a sponge started off strong but fell apart after two weeks of constant scrubbing, it didnt make this list. These sponges held up to sanitization cycles in the dishwasher, regular wringing and drying, and weeks of daily use. I stored them side by side, in order to compare and contrast them, to determine whether the material allows the sponge to dry quickly, and to check how long they last and how effectively they lather using a single pump of dish soap. Of the nine sponges I tested, seven made the cut. I reached out to chefs and bartenders for recommendations as well. If youre looking for scrubbers or eco-friendly alternatives to sponges, we have recommendations and guides to those, too. What were looking for Material The sponges range from natural, compostable materials like coconut fibers to synthetic foams. Style Some sponges are dual-sided, with soft bases lined by a coarser scrubbing side. Some sponges are rectangular with sharp corners, while others come in round, oval, or wavy shapes. I found that the sharp-cornered sponges were generally the best for getting into the angular sides of my sink and the rounded ones felt better to hold. Function If theyre dual-sided, what are each of the sides good for? Is the sponge usable on everything or specific items or surfaces? I set out to answer these questions and tested their capabilities in making dish soap stretch and recorded how frequently I was reaching for another pump. Best dish sponge overall Skura Style Kitchen Sponges $15 for 4 Material: Polyurethane foam | Style: Sharp-edged rectangle | Function: Dual-sided for scrubbing and regular sponging, use for dishes and all surfaces The Skura sponge is made of quick-drying polyurethane foam that never leaves slimy messes in my soap dish. Its minuscule air pockets resisted food particles so that when I rinsed and wrung it out after using it to do the dishes, any bits of food just slid right off it. It cleaned up caked-on dog messes on the floor with one swipe. Im trying to back off the synthetic foam in my household, but in terms of longevity, this sponge cannot be beat. It was a close call between the Skura sponge (which just comes in one sharp-edged rectangular design) and the Jetz-Scrubz sponges, which come in a multitude of shapes, colors, and sizes. Both lasted for about three months, through many cycles in the dishwasher, but in the end the Skura won as my best overall pick for two reasons: Its edges could clean the sharp crevices of my idiotically designed square kitchen sink (which always traps grime in its corners) and because its design slowly starts to fade over time with use, so you know when to replace it. When the design is gone, chuck the sponge. Skura sponges are so durable that I use them to clean my kitchen and shower walls for months (dont worry, I used different sponges), and if it werent for their intentionally fading colors, I would not be able to keep track of how long I was using them, the foam is so resistant to breakage. They also hold a lot of soap, so I found that I was going through a bottle of dish soap at a far slower rate than with any other sponge Ive used. $15 for 4 at Amazon Buy $15 for 4 at Amazon Buy Best (less-expensive) dish sponge Scrub-it Multi-Purpose Sponges Kitchen $10 $10 Material: Microfiber | Style: Dual-sided and curved for glassware | Function: Dishes and surfaces This is a household sponge that can withstand heavy commercial use. Its the only microfiber sponge on this list and comes recommended by chef Christine Lau, a chef and restaurant consultant, who found out about it from chef Dan Palermo of Ashley Christensens AC Events Catering in Raleigh, North Carolina (she insisted that we credit him for finding it). I use the scrubber side to actually clean the surface. Its harsh enough to remove caked-on things but soft enough not to damage them. Then I flip the sponge over and use the microfiber side to wipe up the soap and scum. This is huge in a professional kitchen because you dont want to waste precious dry side towels. If youre an owner of a restaurant, youll appreciate these, too, because less towel usage equals less expenses, says Lau. $10 at Amazon Buy $10 at Amazon Buy Best dual-sided dish sponge Jetz-Scrubz Rectangle Scrubber Sponge $15 for 3 Material: Foam | Style: Many sizes and shapes, cushion-shaped scrub layer | Function: Everything except outdoor grills and cast-iron cookware This is the ultimate dual-sided sponge for cleaning the nonstick liner of my rice cooker. Its excellent for scrubbing baked-on messes in pans, and its pliable enough for cleaning delicate wine glasses. It makes dish soap last seemingly forever. Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang has been using Jetz-Scrubz sponges since 2018 and says its one of the very few subscriptions shes kept on Amazon for so long. I use the Jetz-Scrubz sponge for everything, she says. Ive used it for countertops and the dining table. I like the scrubby side better than the scrubby part of Scotch-Brite sponges, and its effective yet gentle enough to clean up blackened Le Creuset enamel with a baking soda paste without scratching it. Ive run the sponge through the dishwasher countless times, and it continues to bounce back like new. Its foam is softer and thinner than the material of the Skura sponge, which can make it easier to maneuver into tight spaces, but I liked the Skura sponge better for bigger jobs like scrubbing my shower walls. $15 for 3 at Amazon Buy $15 for 3 at Amazon Buy Best plastic-free dish sponge Blueland Scrub Sponge, 3-Pack $14 $14 Material: Cellulose and loofah | Style: Two-sided and plant-based | Function: Dishes and kitchen surfaces Im a huge fan of everything Blueland makes and use its dishwasher, laundry, and toilet tablets religiously at home. Its scrub sponge is particularly cool looking, with an oval of loofah attached to a very spongy blue sponge. Its pretty rare to find a plastic-free scrubber, and I love this one. The loofah side is stiff for scrubbing, and the blue cellulose side is good for cleaning delicate items like glassware. This is the closest I can get to cleaning like chef Toni Elkhouri of Cedars Cafe in Melbourne, Florida, who grows, dries, and uses loofahs in her restaurant for dishwashing. She says they have many advantages: They usually last a few weeks, boiling them once a week to keep them sanitized. The best part is, because they are plant based, they can be composted. I can run the Blueland sponge through the dishwasher about five times, but after about two months of use, the loofah and sponge parts separate and I toss the pieces into the compost. $14 at Blueland Buy Best eco-friendly scrubber sponge Airnex Natural Kitchen Sponge, 12-Pack $17 $17 Material: Coconut husk and cellulose | Style: Dual-sided | Function: Dishes and surfaces This sponge has stiff coconut fibers woven into its scrub side. Its even more durable than the Blueland sponge, lasting me about two months, but is a little more abrasive. Its odor-resistant and dries quickly and withstands the beating I give it, using it to scrub my metal outdoor furniture and wipe textured tiled floors (not to mention the regular trips it takes through the dishwasher). Its a favorite of Rebecca King, a private chef agent and chef. Im constantly recommending household items to clients and chefs, says King. We always have clean sponges in our tool kit, especially for one-off events. You just never know what a client does and doesnt have. Our clients prefer green products as we do. This sponge is durable, great for scrubbing, and doesnt get as grimy as a plastic sponge. $17 at Amazon Buy $17 at Amazon Buy Best gentle dish sponge Peachy Clean Silicone Scrubber, 3-Pack $17 $17 Material: Silicone | Style: Large air holes | Function: Gentle scrubbing This unique-looking sponge is the antithesis of all the polyurethane and cellulose sponges on this list, which all seem to strive for the tiniest air pockets possible. This sponge, which is peach and infused with peach fragrance, looks like the inside of an Aero chocolate bar but is made from silicone. It comes recommended by Strategist contributor John deBary, a bar expert. Its gently scrubby and not too harsh, he says. It generally stays clean and not disgusting. I use it for dishes, but I wash my fruits and vegetables with it I always soak and scrub the outside of citrus if Im using them for garnishes. The sponges last for a month with daily use. They start to pill after that, then I toss them. $17 at Amazon Buy $17 at Amazon Buy Best eco-friendly gentle dish sponge Grove Co. Walnut Scrubber Sponge, 2-Pack $5 $5 Material: Cellulose, shells, recycled PET fibers | Style: Dual-sided rectangular scrubber | Function: Dishes and surfaces This is the gentlest of the natural-fiber sponges I tested. Its not as pliable as the foam Jetz-Scrubz, which is a little better on, say, Champagne flutes, but I like the firmness of the sponge for cleaning stainless-steel surfaces in my kitchen. Since it is less abrasive than the Blueland or Airnex sponges, I use it on my painted kitchen cabinets without worrying about scratching them. Its also a little thicker than the Airnex sponge and thus better for making a pump of dish soap last longer. $5 at Grove Collaborative Buy 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. Recommended by Experts A series where we find out which products the professionals (who really know what theyre talking about) actually use and really stand behind. Read more here. Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers There are, at least what feels like, an infinite number of hot sauces out there: hard-to-find regional varieties, specialty bottles that pride themselves on being almost too hot to eat, super-small-batch ones sold at your local farmers market. Given the sheer quantity of options, to make an all-encompassing list would be an impossible feat. Instead, consider this a well-rounded curation of some deeply beloved classics and more unusual offerings recommended by chefs, recipe developers, and the Strategist staff. (There are also a number of celebrity endorsements culled from our What I Cant Live Without archive.) All of these are great for drizzling on sandwiches, eggs, and tacos, but I also made sure to include recommendations for cooking applications. Theres a thick, serrano-based variety laden with herbs that brings brightness to a dip; a thin ginger-laden sauce that distributes beautifully into margaritas; and many that work well whisked into sauces and marinades where heat is just one small part of making a dynamic mixture. Zabs Hot Sauce $20 $20 Weve been hearing about Zabs which makes an Original and St. Augustine sauce for years. Both kinds are in this tasting set, and both are favorites of pro cooks and Strategist staffers alike for their well-balanced mix of heat and vinegar. White Bark Workwear owner Charlie Pennes says neither is too spicy, which lends to their versatility. Recipe developer and food stylist Chloe Walsh uses the Original which she says almost tastes like it has a black pepper kick to it for topping dishes and for marinating meat and fish. Strategist writer Dominique Pariso, also partial to this variety, says she likes to add a dash to chili, soups, and stews to brighten them up. The St. Augustine is vinegar-based as well, but with a slightly sweeter heat. Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang puts this kind on everything from BECs to roast chicken to fried rice. Chef Will Coleman (who loves both, but most often reaches for St. Augustine) says the delicate and dynamic sauce is perfect for burritos, sandwiches, chilis, and stews. As for a celebrity endorsement, Meghann Fahy is a big fan. $20 at Amazon Buy $20 at Amazon Buy Tabasco Pepper Sauce $4 $4 Todd Pulsinelli, executive chef at New Orleanss Sylvain, admits that Tabasco is on the thinner, more watery side, but says that consistency makes it perfect for adding to other sauces or marinades like hollandaise, where the vinegar plays against the other acidic notes. He does say you have to make sure to add it gradually so it doesnt overwhelm, but the bottle allows for control in that it only shakes out a small amount at a time. As for spice level, Strategist writer Ambar Pardilla doesnt think its sweat-inducing, but she says its pleasantly peppery, with a tingling-without-lingering heat. She uses it as a topper for eggs, splashes some on a splooge of ketchup to give it some kick, and says she especially likes it for soup where the heat disperses and gives dimension. $4 at Target Buy Louisiana The Perfect Hot Sauce $18 for 4 $18 for 4 This hot sauce is king in my family, says Jocelyn Delk Adams, a cookbook author and the recipe developer behind Grandbaby Cakes. Its got a good amount of heat, but its really well-balanced because of the strong vinegar notes. She drizzles it as a topper sometimes but most frequently uses it for cooking, like whisked into eggs before she scrambles them and stirred into buttermilk brine for fried chicken. It works well in these applications because its on the thinner side and adds a base layer of heat that makes dishes more complex and layered, she says. $18 for 4 at Amazon Buy $3 at Walmart Buy Mama Teavs Hot Garlic $18 $18 The category of chile crisps is huge, and including them all would be overwhelming, so Ive selected just a couple of standouts that come recommended by pro cooks. Mama Teavs is a garlic-chili crunch with a consistency similar to the classic and beloved chili crisp, Lao Gan Ma, but spicier and without fermented beans. Its actually really big crispy chunks of garlic and peppers, Walsh says, and the overall ratio of crisp to oil is perfect. She says she appreciates that the sauce stays super crunchy and doesnt stick to the bottom of the jar with most of the oil rising to the top (as she has found happens with other chili crisps). Cook Ethany Lee puts it on actually everything, she says, including pizza, pasta, and burrito bowls. Its strangely neutral enough to not overpower other flavors, she says. $18 at Amazon Buy $16 at Mama Teav's Buy Poi Dog Chili Peppah Water $22 $22 Poi Dogs Chili Peppah Water is made by Aranita, a mild, gingery hot sauce, as she describes it, thats inspired by traditional Hawaiian table condiments. Ive had a bottle in my fridge for about a month now and as someone who cant take too much heat, I can confirm it delivers a well-rounded heat. Theres a distinct rice-vinegar base and a saltiness that I love. It has a thin consistency but comes in a squeeze bottle for easy application to rice and noodle dishes, soups, and (a recommendation from Aranita) even margaritas. Ive also used some in a marinade for chicken with great success. $22 at Amazon Buy $22 at Amazon Buy Crystal Hot Sauce $15 for 2 $15 for 2 Recipe developer and private chef Jane Morgan grew up using Crystal Hot Sauce and to this day still drenches things in it, she says, including eggs, sandwiches, rice bowls, roasted vegetables, and to finish off a big pot of beans. Theres a tanginess so that it doesnt just feel immediately hot on your tongue, she says. And its a really buildable heat, so if you add a few drops, itll bring other flavors out, but if you add more, you get a more intense spice. She also likes the consistency, which she says is somewhere between Tabasco and Cholula and is very well-blended, so you never get drops that are too watery or too viscous. Novelist Jami Attenberg uses Crystal all the time, too. $15 for 2 at Amazon Buy $15 for 2 at Amazon Buy Red Clay Verde Hot Sauce $19 $19 Red Clay is most well-known for its vinegary Original, but Chamberss favorite from its line is Verde, a serrano-pepper-based sauce that includes cilantro (you can see the green flecks in it, she says), fennel, and onion. She describes it as not too hot, with a bright, herbal, and vegetal taste. She says she likes the texture, too, which is substantial enough to really use it like a sauce instead of just a topping. Chambers whisks it into sour cream to make a slightly spicy crema, and often serves it alongside chicken, potatoes, and vegetables. $19 at Red Clay Hot Sauce Buy Truff White Hot Sauce $35 $35 Coleman says Truff, which incorporates truffles into their sauces, adds a luxurious flavoring to simple dishes. His favorite is the white variety because its the most robust of the bunch and as such, a little goes a long way as a straight-up topper (it has a thicker consistency, he says) or whisked into dips or sauces (he loves it in tomato and vodka pasta sauce especially). While truffle-flavored ingredients can sometimes lean artificial-tasting, Coleman assures that this one is clean with no aftertaste. You get the truffle right on the tip of your tastebuds, he says, but then the spice from the peppers is still there and garlic really rounds it out. LeVar Burton is a fan of the original Truff, calling it the most elegant hot sauce Ive ever eaten. $35 at Truff Buy Valentina Salsa Picante $3 $3 Valentina has a deep, smokey flavor to it that I love, says Strategist writer Lauren Ro. Its still vinegary, but not as sharp as Cholula, for instance just really rich and spicy. She also points out that the thicker consistency is great for dipping (she and her college roommate used to pair Korean roasted seaweed with Valentina for a salty, spicy midnight snack). Now, she puts it on breakfast burritos. Pulsinelli and Strategist deals editor Sam Daly both say they love the texture, too. Its almost like thinned-out ketchup, with little granules that help it stick to snacks, says Daly, who puts it on popcorn, fruit, and on the rims of glasses for micheladas. Pulsinelli, meanwhile, likes to use it to coat ingredients (his favorite application is on grilled chicken). As for a celebrity endorsement, Abby Elliot says she puts it on eggs, cottage cheese, and fish. $3 at Walmart Buy El Yucateco Green Chile Habanero Hot Sauce $7 $7 For something spicier, Ro recommonds El Yucatecos Green Chile Habanero variety, which she describes as having a super-intense kick right off the bat. Its salty, fiery, and sharp the hottest Mexican sauce Ive tried, she says. Its perfect for Mexican food, naturally, which is what I pair it with the most, but I also love it on eggs and breakfast burritos. $7 at Walmart Buy $3 at Target Buy Encona West Indian Original Hot Pepper Sauce $10 $11 now 9% off $10 Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths found Encona Hot Pepper Sauce after drowning everything in Sriracha and Nandos Peri Peri while in school. She wanted something with more heat and this delivers. She describes it as instantly hot, which she found intense at first but now doesnt faze her. You can really taste the Scotch bonnet in there, but it tapers off into something slightly sweet and fruity, she says. $10 at Amazon Buy $10 at Amazon Buy More hot sauces weve written about 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 the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best womens jeans, rolling luggage, bed sheets, coffee makers, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission. 10 items in this article 1 item on sale! Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers Registries are often wasted on soon-to-be parents. In this series, cool new (-ish) moms and dads tell us about the stuff thats actually worked for them in the time since they had a kid. In other words: If they could do their baby registry all over again, here are the items that would top the list. There is often less anxiety with a second child you feel a bit more prepared, now that youve been there before but coordinating two different sleep schedules is a new kind of challenge, especially if your kids are sharing a bedroom. I didnt realize how hard it would be for the younger one to fall asleep, says Hannah Bronfman, an investor and influencer, noting that her second child, who is now a year and a half, has a lot of FOMO. A modified bedtime routine for her 4-year-old and a blackout tent for his younger sister eventually helped solve the problem. For everything else, shed add to her baby registry, now that she knows better. I talked to Bronfman, who is based in New York and travels with her family often, about the products that help make it easier, from the cozy and stylish bassinet she wishes shed had with her first child and the Transformer-like crib that made switching to a toddler bed less of a big deal. We are obsessed with the Nanit baby monitor and Nanit sound machine. Both of them use the same app, which is so convenient, like a little nursery control center. Our daughter, who is a year and a half, loves the bird sounds that come with the sound machine. It just completely soothes her. We also use the microphone setting on the monitor a lot. Its been a total game changer. If shes having a bad dream and is kind of crying in her sleep, I can soothe her before she wakes up just by making a shushing sound. I dont have to be in the room with her. I just get on the microphone and shush for a minute until shes sleeping soundly again. We use the sound machine as a visual alarm clock for my son, who is 4. Its just like a regular alarm, but instead of playing a sound, the light goes green, signaling to your child that they can leave their bedroom and come see you. You can turn the green light on or off at any time using the app, like if you want them to get up later one day if you decide to sleep in. SlumberPod Portable Privacy Pod Blackout Canopy Crib Cover $180 $180 The SlumberPod is amazing. But we used it in a very different way with my second child than we did with my first. When we had it for our son, we mostly used it for travel. That way, no matter what type of hotel room we had, we could put the crib anywhere in the room, plop the SlumberPod over it, and he would have his own little blackout moment. But now, we actually use the SlumberPod in our house. The transition of having kids sleep in the same room together can go either way sometimes, and there were a couple of weeks where Preston really didnt want her in his room, and so we literally set up the pack-and-play in the living room and put the SlumberPod over it for her to sleep in. It might sound a little kooky, but thats what we needed to do. Now, shes gotten so used to sleeping in the SlumberPod that even though shes no longer in the living room, we still use it. Since shes still a baby, she goes to sleep at seven oclock, whereas Preston goes to sleep a little bit later than that. In her little blackout pod, shes not getting distracted by his bedtime routine. Well start with stories outside their bedroom. Then, when we move into the room, we do a kind of whisper story. But regardless, she is dead asleep and not being distracted by anything thats going on because shes in her blackout pod. $180 at Amazon Buy $180 at Amazon Buy Bobbie Organic Infant Formula From $25 From $25 I wish I had known about Bobbie sooner. Theres so much pressure around breastfeeding, and I think it wouldve taken some of the pressure off my body, which actually wouldve probably encouraged me to breastfeed longer. Its easy to use and modeled after breast milk, using ingredients like organic grass-fed cows milk and organic whey protein. Thinking back, it would have been such a comfort to have this incredible organic baby formula (from a female-founded brand) right from the start, just in case. From $25 at Bobbie Buy Nestig the Wave Crib $799 I had the white version of Nestigs the Wave Crib with Preston, but now I would definitely put the walnut one on my registry instead. I think it is so beautiful. Back then Preston was a pandemic baby we were in a sort of temporary apartment, so it was kind of just, like, whatever worked. But if I had had my ideal baby room, I wouldve gotten the walnut. The company is really amazing in general, but what I love about this newborn crib is that it is physically pretty small, but then it ends up growing as your child actually grows. So it expands and becomes a toddler bed. We were really excited to move Preston into a toddler bed, but we didnt want to put a huge emphasis on the transition. This crib just makes that transition a bit smoother and less of a thing. Its almost like a Transformer, which is how we ended up explaining it to him. $799 at Nestig Inc Buy Babyzen Yoyo Bassinet $250 $250 We had the Yoyo stroller, too, which was amazing for traveling with Preston, but I always pined for the bassinet because its so cute, like a cozy little cocoon. Whenever we would travel to Europe or Japan, Id notice that everyone seemed to have one. So I felt like it was taunting me, especially the all-black stroller and bassinet, which is really chic. The Yoyo was such a great stroller for us when my son was 2 and 3 years old, and it wouldve been nice to use during the newborn phase, too, and then be able to switch it up later. $250 at Amazon Buy $250 at Stokke Buy Hatch Grow Smart Changing Pad and Scale $150 $150 This Hatch changing pad is so cool because its also a scale. In the early days, especially as first-time parents, you want to know that theyre growing and gaining weight. Obviously, you dont need to weigh them every time you change a diaper. But having something like this at home is so convenient so you dont have to rely on doctor visits every time you want to weigh your baby. I had a friend who found out that her breast milk wasnt filling her baby up enough, and he was starting to lose weight. So she ended up supplementing with formula while she worked on her supply. In those cases, this would have been so helpful. By the time we got this, we were on our second kid, so everything was a little more relaxed, and we were checking her weight maybe once every ten days. Still, it was a comfort to us. $150 at Amazon Buy $150 at Amazon Buy Believe Baby 100-Percent Bamboo-Viscose Baby Diapers From $30 for 60 From $30 for 60 So I had never heard of these diapers before and then I did a little social-media post for the nonprofit Baby2Baby. They provide essentials like diapers and clothing to children living in poverty across the United States. Afterward, this diaper brand that works in association with Baby2Baby sent me some diapers, and I became absolutely obsessed with them. First of all, I feel like everyone dies for a specific luxury brand of diapers. I think theyre fine; theyre better than Pampers. But I just found that these were much better. As soon as I started using them, I was like, Wow, I am really into this diaper. Then I started ordering them just because I was kind of obsessed. They feel really nice, and the scrunchy part around the legs really holds everything in. From $30 for 60 at Amazon Buy From $30 for 60 at Amazon Buy Frida Baby 2-in-1 Portable Sound Machine for Baby + Nightlight $25 $25 This Frida Baby shusher was perfect for car rides with both of my kids, especially my daughter. The drive out to our country house is a two-hour drive. So we try to do it during her nap time or his nap time. This machine helps make sure they actually fall asleep without me having to do the shushing myself. That is absolutely exhausting, and I feel like I end up going lightheaded every single time. This is such a convenient and easy thing to have that has saved us so many times. $25 at Amazon Buy $25 at Amazon Buy Charmspring School Age Starter Pack $295 This isnt something you need until your kids are probably 3 years old, but it is an expensive item, so I can understand someone wanting to put it on the registry for their second kid. My son is at this age where he is obsessed with knowing the schedule, and he sees it from us; were always talking about our schedule and our calendars and what were doing. He wants to know whats going on. Like, on Tuesdays, hes going to gymnastics or Thursday to his little French pod. Then, also, there was a moment where it felt like small things were becoming big asks, whether it was making sure hes brushing his teeth at night or other stuff. Eating dinner was always a challenge in terms of feeding himself. Charmspring has been a lifesaver for this particular moment in his life. Its a board that lays out all of the things that are in our daily routine. It has all these little pieces that you can manually put on the board that show what the routine and schedule is for the week. Then theres little pieces that describe chores for helping around the house, which is also really nice. Every day, he can reference the board and know what day it is and what hes doing on that day. The one thing I will say is that my daughter gets into everything, and shell take all the things off and then mess up the schedule and whatever. So we had to mount it higher to keep it from getting pulled apart. $295 at Charmspring Buy 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. OSHA Cites Alabama Meat Processing Plant for Repeated Safety Violations OSHA has cited Dean Sausage Company for repeated safety violations, proposing $103,245 in fines after a July 2024 inspection. OSHA has proposed $103,245 in penalties against Dean Sausage Company Inc. following a July 2024 inspection at its Atalla, Alabama, facility. The agency found the company failed to address safety issues identified in inspections in 2022 and 2023. According to a recent release, OSHAs latest inspection revealed three repeat violations, including failure to implement proper lockout/tagout procedures, inadequate employee training on those procedures and the absence of a written hazard communication program for handling hazardous chemicals. Inspectors also identified two serious violations for missing electrical panel covers. This marks the third time OSHA has cited the company for similar issues. The December 2022 inspection resulted in $109,823 in penalties for multiple safety violations, including unguarded machinery, unsafe electrical installations and chemical hazards. A follow-up inspection in September 2023 found the company had not corrected these deficiencies, leading to additional citations. Putting employees at risk by neglecting safety is a reckless way to operate. Dean Sausage Companys repeated disregard for worker safety shows a troubling priority of profits over people, OSHA Area Office Director Joel Batiz in Birmingham, Alabama, said in a statement. The company must correct its disturbing workplace safety failures before an employee suffers a needless injury or worse. The people who work there every day to help put food on our tables deserve better, and we will continue to hold the employer accountable until they make safety a priority. Dean Sausage Company, founded in 1955, manufactures and distributes sausage products across the southern U.S. OSHAs investigation is part of a national emphasis program aimed at reducing workplace amputation hazards in manufacturing. OSHAs Doug Parker Issues Statement on Latest BLS Data on Worker Fatalities OSHA Assistant Secretary has issued a statement on the latest BLS data regarding a decrease in worker injuries since the previous year. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has released its 2023 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, showing a decline in the number and rate of fatal workplace injuries. Now OSHA Assistant Secretary Doug Parker responded to the data. "Today's report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is more positive news for worker safety and health, Parker said in the statement. In November, the bureau reported a 20-year low in the rate of non-fatal worker injuries and illnesses in 2023, and we are further encouraged by the news that the number and rate of fatal worker injuries also dropped in 2023. According to the BLS report, 5,283 workers lost their lives on the job in 2023, a decrease from previous years. This translates to one fatality every 99 minutes, highlighting the persistent risks many workers face. Parker credited the Biden administrations worker-focused policies, including enhanced enforcement and collaborative safety initiatives, for contributing to the improved statistics. "Whether it is our enforcement initiatives, our promotion of workplace safety and health management systems, or our initiatives to support workplace mental health and safe driving and prevent worker drug overdoses, it all makes a difference in saving lives at work, Parker continued. "There was a meaningful decline in the number of fatal injuries to Black workers of 10.2 percent, and the rate for Latino workers dropped from 4.6 to 4.4 per 100,000 workers. Addressing high rates among these populations and recognizing the disproportionate impact of work hazards on workers of color enable more workers to end their shifts safely. OSHA plans to continue its focus on workplace mental health, drug overdose prevention and safe driving initiatives. Details on the 2023 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries are on the BLS website. Flash Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah meets 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, on Jan. 6, 2025. [Photo/Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs] 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. Roofing Contractor Faces Penalties for Repeated Fall Protection Violations A New Jersey roofing contractor faces $328,545 in OSHA fines for repeated safety violations, including fall hazards at three worksites. OSHA has cited Newark, New Jersey-based roofing contractor RRC Home Improvement Inc. for severe safety violations after federal inspectors found workers repeatedly exposed to fall hazards at three North Jersey worksites in just one month. According to a recent release, RRC Home Improvement faces $328,545 in fines. The inspections began in June 2024 after reports of employees working on a roof in Dover without fall protection. A month later, inspectors found similar violations at two other sites in Lodi during the agency's National Emphasis Program for Falls in Construction. In addition, inspectors uncovered other safety violations, including the lack of hard hats, eye protection, fire extinguishers, non-compliant scaffold poles and unsafe ladder use. OSHA cited RRC Home Improvement for four willful and seven serious violations. This is not the first time RRC Home Improvement has been penalized for safety lapses. Since 2017, the company has faced five inspections resulting in citations for failing to protect workers from fall hazards. Due to the willful nature of its violations, RRC Home Improvement has been added to OSHA's Severe Violator Enforcement Program, which targets companies demonstrating repeated disregard for worker safety. "Failing to provide and use fall protection when working at elevation - in this case on rooftops - is a disaster waiting to happen," OSHA Area Director Lisa Levy in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, said in a statement. "Despite being cited multiple times since 2017, RRC Home Improvement continues to disregard critical safety standards, putting workers at grave risk. Falls remain the leading cause of fatalities and serious injuries in the construction industry, making this repeated negligence unacceptable." RRC Home Improvement has 15 business days to comply with the citations, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The debate about whether nuclear energy has a place in a net-zero energy system has been heating up recently. Oblivious to that debate, large electricity consumers are making their own plans. While Germany shut down its last nuclear reactors, Microsoft struck a deal to re-open the Three Mile Island plant to fuel its data centers. Nuclear is back. And the race to fuel the nuclear renaissance is on. In December last year, energy transition outlet Inside Climate News reported that Texas was reviving old uranium mines as it seeks to feed its high-tech industries. We can make Texas the nuclear capital of the world, the report quoted the head of the states Nuclear Alliance, Reed Clay, as saying. The report followed a flurry of news pointing towards a growing appetite for nuclear power, especially from the tech industry. That Three Mile Island deal that Microsoft struck with Constellation Energy was one of the signs that nuclear is making a comeback. Googles partnership with modular reactor developer Kairos for 500 MW of capacity was another sign. Amazon was not far behind, buying a stake in another modular reactor company, X-energy. Metal is also in the nuclear game, seeking up to 4 GW in nuclear capacity for its data centers. There is a nuclear race on, despite Germanys insistence it would not reverse its own ban on the only low-emission baseload form of electricity generation, for which it is paying with a surge in coal generation. That race has put uranium in the spotlight. And uranium is problematic. Related: European Gas Depleting At Fastest Pace In Seven Years An infographic by Visual Capitalist published last week shows the problem quite clearly. The infographic maps the sources of uranium for U.S. nuclear reactors. At 28%, local uranium mines are the top sourcefollowed by Russia, which accounts for 27% of the enriched uranium used in U.S. reactors. For obvious foreign policy reasons, this is not optimal from the perspective of the State Department. Russia is also the largest supplier of processed uranium in the world, a position quite similar to Chinas position as the largest processor of critical metals and minerals. One might say the West has picked a bad time to revive nuclear power, but this is a revival borne out of necessity as the realization dawns that wind and solar power wont cut it as primary energy sources. Not only that, but the two pillars of the energy transition have run into some serious financial trouble recently, such as negative electricity prices during peak generation periods and higher production costs. As a result, uranium prices may be about to go through the roofbecause there may not be enough capacity in operation in the world. Last year, 22 countries signed a declaration to triple their nuclear power generation capacity by 2050 as part of efforts to decarbonize. Theres no other way to meet those net-zero carbon goals other than nuclear energy, one nuclear industry executive, the chief executive of Thor Energy, said at the time. And then she sounded the alarm. Where is that uranium going to come from? Nicole Galloway Warland asked. Theres not enough to go around. Theres a supply deficit. Enter Canada, one of the largest producers of uranium and a country whose federal government is firmly in the energy transition camp. Not only does Canada mine enough uranium to fuel our domestic reactors, but we are also the only country in the G7 that can supply uranium to fuel our allies reactors. Each year, Canada exports over 80 per cent of our uranium production, making us a world leader in this market, resource minister Jonathan Wilkinson said earlier this month in a statement to the Financial Times. The Visual Capitalist infographic does not list Canada among the large suppliers of uranium for U.S. reactors, meaning it falls in the Other category, which accounts for 12% of the U.S. total in uranium imports. Yet Canada is the worlds second-largest producer of the radioactive element and boasts the worlds largest high-grade uranium. It is little wonder that Canadian uranium miners are preparing for a boom as the price of nuclear fuel is expected to surge. Weve never seen tailwinds quite like this, Grant Isaac, chief financial officer of uranium mining major Cameco, told the FT. There is no doubt that there is growing demand for uranium. Indeed, demand is growing, even though opposition from the climate activism circles is also growing, as activists point to the long construction times for nuclear, the emissions footprint of that construction, and their general dislike for this competitor to their favored wind and solar. The fact remains, however, that even such a staunch proponent of the energy transition as the International Energy Agency has acknowledged the lead role that nuclear power is set to play in the decarbonization of the worlds energy systems. And this means that those uranium miners in Canadaand elsewherehave a good reason to be optimistic. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Oil markets have spent the first days of 2025 focused on storms and sanctions, with Biden doubling down on sanctions in his final days in office as oil prices climb. - Winter Storm Blair has hit the US Midwest, Plains, and Atlantic Coast with snowstorms and freezing temperatures, canceling nearly 2,000 flights across the country and sending oil and gas prices climbing. - Wholesale electricity prices across the US Northeast skyrocketed into triple-digit territory as the cold snap ratcheted up demand for power with ISO New England Massachusetts hitting $120 per MWh in intra-day trading. - There has been limited impact on refining so far, but the NYMEX ULSD futures contract rose to its highest since early October and settled at $2.35 per gallon on Monday thanks to rising demand for heating oil. - The freezing cold has also reached Texas where the Permians Waha gas trading hub saw prices rise to a one-year high of $3.67 per mmBtu, having traded in negative territory as recently as November 2024. Market Movers - In a long-awaited move, Italys oil major ENI (BIT:ENI) said it would resume drilling at Egypts giant Zohr gas field this month as the Saipem 10000 drillship is set to arrive in Egypt within several weeks. - US refining giant Phillips66 (NYSE:PSX) announced it would acquire various midstream assets from pipeline operator EPIC NGL in an all-cash deal worth $2.2 billion, boosting its portfolio in natural gas liquids. - One of the best-performing oil companies of 2024, Portugals Galp Energia (ELI:GALP) launched a probe into an alleged conflict of interest regarding CEO Filipe Silva, potentially leading to his dismissal. Tuesday, January 07, 2025 Sanctions have become the main news in 2025 so far, with this week seeing a tightening of US sanctions against China as the Pentagon targeted state-backed oil and shipping firms. Rumors are circulating that the outgoing Biden administration will slap further sanctions on Russia and Iran, inadvertently lifting oil prices before Donald Trump takes office on January 20. For the time being, ICE Brent futures are hovering around $77 per barrel, with a potential spike above $80 per barrel becoming an increasingly likely outcome. US Sanctions Chinas Top Offshore Producer. The US Defense Department has sanctioned Chinas offshore oil producer CNOOC (SHA:600938) and largest shipping firm Cosco over alleged links to the Peoples Liberation Army, less than a month after the former sold its assets in the US Gulf of Mexico. Exxon Strikes Back at California. US oil major ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) filed a lawsuit against California Attorney General Rob Bonta and several environmental groups for alleged defamation, claiming Bonta has been acting in concert with a law firm that has ties to billionaire Andrew Forrest. Sudan Lifts Force Majeure on Oil Exports. Sudan has withdrawn a force majeure on transportation and exports of crude from Port Sudan, ending an almost year-long blockade of its own production as well as South Sudans output, repairing damages caused by the insurgent militia RSF. Italy Calls for EU Gas Price Cap. Italys Energy Minister Gilberto Fratin suggested the European Union extend its emergency cap on gas prices and set an upper limit of 60 per MWh to limit speculative trading in TTF futures as Ukraines transit halt and cold weather keep gas prices around 47-48/MWh. Germanys Gas Withdrawals Speed Up. The speed of natural gas withdrawals in Germany doubled in the first week of January as the ongoing cold snap increased heating demand, with net withdrawals averaging 1.23 TWh per day compared to 0.56 TWh per day the week before. US, Nippon Steel Sue the US Government. US Steel (NYSE:X) and its Japanese peer Nippon Steel filed a lawsuit in a federal appeals court against the Biden administration, claiming their blocked $15 billion merger was scuttled by the White House through a sham national security review. India Seeks Investors for SPR Expansion. India has issued a tender to build and operate a strategic petroleum reserves site with a capacity of 2.5 million tonnes at Padur in the southern Karnataka state, boosting the South Asian countrys SPR reserves that currently only wield 5.3 million tonnes. Canadas Midstream Giant Wants More Pipelines. Canadas leading pipeline firm Enbridge (TSE:ENB) signed a letter of intent with the Alberta government to boost pipeline capacity amidst rising oil sands output, potentially expanding the US-bound 3.1 million b/d Mainline system. Namibia Eyes Chinese Nuclear Investment. Namibia is seeking investment from Beijing to build on its vast reserves on uranium and develop nuclear power in the African country, with Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi visiting Windhoek this week, building on last years $3 billion desalination deal. UK Becomes Europes Largest EV Market. The United Kingdom has become Europes largest market for electric vehicles as new EV registrations rose to 381,970 last year, up 21% year-over-year and 1,300 units more than in Germany, greatly boosted by its stringent EV sales mandate. Deindustrialization Helps German Emissions Fall. According to climate analysts, Germanys greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3% year-over-year to 656 million metric tonnes of CO 2 eq., undershooting Berlins own cap by more than 5% as industrial activity keeps on contracting. China Churns Out Record Amounts of Cobalt. Chinas cobalt giant CMOC (SHA:603993) posted all-time high production figures of the transition metal in 2024, mining 114,165 metric tonnes and doubling the 2023 total of 55,526 tonnes, overperforming its own production guidance by a hefty 63%. Weak China Prompts Iron Ore Slump. Iron ore futures continued their decline to an almost two-month low as the May futures contract on Chinas Dalian Exchange dropped to 751 per metric tonne ($102/mt), driven by the ongoing slowdown in Chinese smelting ahead of the Lunar New Year. By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has weighed in on the UKs energy policy to hike the windfall tax on North Sea oil and gas operators and become a clean energy superpower by boosting offshore wind development. In a typical Trump fashion, the President-elect last week took to social media to blast the Energy Profits Levy (EPL), as the windfall tax is officially known, and to call for getting rid of the windmills. Trumps barb at the UKs government comes as his current best buddy, Elon Musk, is trolling the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party and calling for resignations. On his own social media platform X, Musk has also suggested in recent days who would be best suited to be the leader of the new populist right-wing Reform UK party. The UK is now in the crosshairs of Trump, too, with an issue dear to the President-elect oil and gas drilling and production. Trump 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. While Trump can and will do all of the above to support the American oil and gas industry, he can only comment on and criticize the energy policy of the UK. He did it, nonetheless. Trump has called for opening up the UK North Sea to oil and gas and getting rid of windmills in response to the recent announcement by Texas-based Apache that it would cease oil and gas production in the region due to the uneconomical windfall tax. The U.K. is making a very big mistake. Open up the North Sea. Get rid of Windmills! President-elect Trump posted last week on social media platform Truth Social. The post contained an attached article about Apaches recent announcement that it would exit the UK North Sea. In November 2024, U.S. oil producer Apache said that it plans to cease oil production at its assets in the UK North Sea by 2030 due to the windfall tax on operators. Apaches parent company, APA Corporation, said in an SEC filing that its assessment of the impact of the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) resulted in findings that continued production in the UK North Sea would be uneconomical. The ruling Labour Partys Autumn Statement confirmed that the windfall tax on UK North Sea operators is rising to 38% from 35%, effective November 1, 2024. The tax will now expire on March 31, 2030, a year later than the previous tax regime. The government is also removing the 29% investment allowance. Since the tax was initially introduced by the Conservative government at the height of the energy crisis in 2022, oil and gas companies operating in the UK North Sea have been calling for certainty in the regulatory and tax framework. Recent changes in policies and the rising taxes have driven away operators, who say that a lack of North Sea investments would only make the UK more dependent on oil and gas imports. The UK windfall tax has made economics in the basin impossible for companies to invest, Brian Gilvary, the chairman of Ineos Energy, said last month. In our initial strategy we wanted to expand in the UK, particularly gas. And what has happened is that the tax regime makes that impossible, Gilvary told the Financial Times, commenting on the prospects of the oil and gas arm that UK-based chemicals group Ineos created four years ago. U.S. President-elect Trump, for his part, has been a vocal critic of offshore wind. In the United States, offshore wind faces an uncertain future under Trumps second-term administration. The President-elect has criticized offshore wind as the most expensive form of energy which, Trump says, also ruins the environment. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Albertas government has partnered with energy infrastructure major Enbridge to boost the provinces pipeline capacity, focusing on reducing red tape for pipeline construction. The partnership is part of the Alberta government's plan for boosting oil and gas production. Its the perfect time to be doing this, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said, as quoted by CityNews. I think with the change in administration in the U.S.one of our tasks in Alberta is to make them understand, for them to achieve global energy dominance, they need a partner to help them ensure they have product for their own people. With regard to the financing of these pipeline infrastructure expansion plans, the provincial government will not be reaching for tax dollars but would rather use income from oil and gas paid in-kind by producers to the province, local media reported. Alberta accounts for the overwhelming bulk of Canadian oil exports, sending crude at a rate of 4.3 million barrels daily to the United States, according to Smith. The Alberta Premier has made no secret of her plans to increase that further. I know the Americans have increased production pretty dramatically in the last 10 years, but it might not always be that way, Smith said back in November when reports emerged it was discussing further pipeline capacity expansion with energy infrastructure companies. They need to know that if theyre looking for additional supply, they shouldnt be looking to Iran or Venezuela. They should be looking to their friend up north. In the context of these plans, Albertans were not happy when the now-defunct Trudeau government announced plans to slap emission caps on the oil and gas industry. Those caps, oil and gas producers argued, would effectively mean a cap on production reducing the supply of essential energy commodities. The Business Council of Canada said, At a time when Canadas economy is stalling, imposing an oil and gas emissions cap will only make Canadians poorer. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Europes vast natural gas inventories are currently depleting at the fastest clip since 2018 as cold weather ramps up heating needs. According to Gas Infrastructure Europe data, storage is just over 70% full compared with about 86% a year ago. Gas inventories currently are 25% below last years peak, marking the biggest drop in seven years. The lower that end-March storage levels are, the harder it will be for the region to refill ahead of the next winter, Samantha Dart, Goldman Sachs Group Inc.s head of natural gas research, said in a note. Specifically, under the colder-than-average scenario that is currently forecast, she added. However, gas prices have been pulling back as no immediate supply shortages are expected despite rising demand. European natural gas futures dipped to 47.90 per megawatt-hour on Monday, easing after last weeks 3.8% rise. Europe's reliance on global liquefied natural gas (LNG) to replace Russian pipeline flows have heightened the region's exposure to price swings, with unplanned outages including Norway's Hammerfest LNG plant closure adding to market volatility. Exports of Russian gas to Europe via pipelines running through Ukraine finally came to an end on New Year's Day, marking the end of an era of Moscow's dominance over Europe's energy markets. Russia's gas firm Gazprom said it had stopped supplying gas at 0500 GMT on Wednesday after Ukraine refused to renew a transit agreement. Ukraine will lose up to $1 billion a year in transit fees from Russia-- which it hopes to offset by quadrupling its domestic gas transmission tariffs for consumers--while Gazprom will lose close to $5 billion in gas sales. Ukraine gas amounted to 5% of total EU gas imports. However, unlike the situation in 2022, natural gas prices have not been majorly impacted by the cut-off thanks to Europes success at finding alternative supplies. Energy experts had earlier warned that Austria, Hungary and Slovakia are likely to be the hardest hit when the imports are cut off. Thankfully, Slovakia has already secured alternative supplies: Azerbaijans state oil company, SOCAR, has started supplying natural gas to Slovakias SPP, the countrys largest state-owned energy operator. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Shandong Port Group, operator of key oil ports used by Chinas independent refiners, has prohibited access and services to tankers sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury, a move that could curb Chinese oil imports and raise costs for local refiners, trade sources have told Reuters. Shandong Port Group has issued a notice, seen by the trade sources, banning ports from allowing tankers on the U.S. Treasurys designated list to dock, unload, or use ship services. The ports where the ban is in effect include Qingdao, Rizhao, and Yantai on Chinas east coast, which are key import sources of crude for the so-called teapots, the independent Chinese refiners. These refiners are the major buyers of Iranian crude oil and the ban on vessels designated by the U.S. could reduce the cheap supply of crude to the teapots. The ban comes after the United States in October began ratcheting up sanctions on entities and vessels transporting Iranian oil. Since then, the Treasury has sanctioned a number of entities, persons, and vessels engaged in the Iranian petroleum trade. Last month, the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned a dozen individuals and entities based in multiple jurisdictions, for their roles in trafficking arms, laundering money, and shipping illicit Iranian petroleum for the benefit of the Houthis. The tightened sanctions on vessels shipping Iranian crude and petroleum products have slowed purchases at Chinas refiners Irans main oil customers who now demand oil delivered with non-sanctioned vessels. Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump is widely expected to further tighten the screws on Irans oil exports. Meanwhile, the current Administration plans to target Russian oil another major cheap source of crude supply to China. 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 Reuters earlier this week. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Russian-appointed officials have declared an emergency after oil was detected on the shores of Sevastopol. Three weeks ago, two tankers plying the Kerch Strait spilled oil in the Black Sea after being struck by a storm, close to eastern Crimea. Sevastopol is the largest city in Crimea and a major port on the Black Sea. According to Russian officials quoted by Tass news agency, the two tankers were carrying around 4,300 dead weight tonnes of oil each, with Russian authorities investigating the incidents for criminal negligence. The Kerch Strait separates Russia-occupied Crimea Peninsula from the Krasnodar region, an important global shipping route. Today a regional emergency regime has been declared in Sevastopol, regional Gov. Mikhail Razvozhaev wrote on Telegram. Let me emphasize: there is no mass pollution of the coastline in Sevastopol, he wrote. Oil accidents due to negligence are pretty common in Russia. Last year, two oil tankers collided in the Irkutsk region in Russia thanks to a captain operating under the influence of alcohol, causing oil spillage into a local river. According to Irkutsk governor Igor Kobzev, it was not clear how much fuel spilled into the Lena River, the world's 11th longest, but said one tanker that sustained significant damage was carrying 138 metric tons of gasoline. The governor estimated that as many as 60 to 90 tons of fuel might have spilled in the river. However, bad weather frequently causes major oil accidents in Russia. Considered the worst of its kind in the country, the Norilsk oil spill was caused by the adverse impacts of climate change. In May 2020, melting permafrost caused a large storage tank near Norilsk to sink after weeks of unusually warm weather in the Arctic with the Ambarnaya River famously running red. One source estimated that as much as 29,000 tonnes (about 218,000 barrels) of diesel could have found its way into the soil and nearby water bodies. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Speaking at the Goldman Sachs Energy, CleanTech, and Utilities Conference in Miami, Hess CEO John Hess shared his perspective on the oil market, suggesting it is closer to being balanced rather than oversupplied in 2025. This outlook comes despite concerns over demand from China and increased production by U.S. and non-OPEC producers. Hess expressed optimism about the shale oil market and the companys growing prospects in Guyana. However, he also warned that political risks, particularly involving Iran and Venezuela, could contribute to market volatility this year. "Demand is a little more robust than people thought," Hess remarked, noting that analysts had initially forecast inventory builds of one million barrels per day, a figure now revised down to half that amount. On the companys operations in Guyana, Hess highlighted the untapped potential of its partnership with ExxonMobil and CNOOC. He shared that the joint venture plans to deploy two additional vessels in 2026 and 2027, increasing the total to six. Even with these expansions, the six vessels will only access about five of the 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent discovered so far, leaving significant room for future growth. Hess also pointed to improvements in shale oil drilling efficiency, which he said will help offset challenges as the shale sector, outside of the Permian Basin, matures after two decades of development. He noted that Hess Corporation is producing 200,000 barrels per day in shale, a rate he expects to sustain for the next 10 years. Over the past year, the company increased shale output by 40,000 barrels per day in the North Dakota Bakken basin, driven by expanded drilling and completion activities. Hess also emphasized the importance of replenishing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), urging U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to take action. While refilling the SPR would support the U.S. oil industry, Trump may have little incentive to prioritize it, opting instead to blame the Biden administration for depleting the reserve. By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Russian crude oil production fell in December to below Moscows output cap under the OPEC+ agreement, anonymous sources with knowledge of Russian production data told Bloomberg on Tuesday. Russia produced 8.971 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil last month, down from previous months and about 7,000 bpd below the countrys production target under the OPEC+ deal, according to the sources. Russia stopped releasing oil and gas output data shortly after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The market and analysts have to rely on sources familiar with the figures that arent public anymore, or on ship-tracking data for Russian overseas shipments of crude and refined petroleum products. Russia has been overproducing above its OPEC+ quota for the most part of the past couple of years. Moscow, as well as Kazakhstan and OPECs second-largest producer, Iraq, have pledged to compensate for previous overproduction with deeper cuts later this year. Russia, Iraq, and Kazakhstan submitted in July 2024 their compensation plans to the OPEC Secretariat for overproduced crude volumes for the first six months of 2024. The cumulative overproduction in these six months was about 1.184 million bpd for Iraq, 620,000 bpd for Kazakhstan, and 480,000 bpd for Russia, OPEC said back then. Russias plan envisages Moscow mostly compensating for its overproduction in the months March to September 2025, due to the more challenging conditions in the winter. Russian output could see further declines in the coming months if the tightened Western sanctions curb Moscows exports, since Russia doesnt have much storage capacity for the crude that isnt shipped abroad or refined locally. 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 told Reuters earlier this week. 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. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC), the largest oil operator in South Sudan, will resume oil production on Wednesday after Sudan lifted the force majeure on the pipeline route through Sudan and onto Port Sudan on the Red Sea, South Sudans Minister of Petroleum, Puot Kang Chol, said on Tuesday. Earlier this month, Sudan lifted the 10-month-long force majeure on the oil flows from landlocked South Sudan through its neighbor to the north, Sudan, following new security arrangements and improved security conditions. In March 2024, Sudan declared force majeure on crude oil exports from its 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. With new security arrangements in place in Sudan, the petroleum minister of South Sudan wrote on X on Tuesday, On behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum, I am pleased to announce the resumption of Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC) operations in Blocks 3 & 7, effective January 8, 2025. Following the resolution of pipeline and security concerns and the lifting of force majeure, we are restarting operations with the full support of our international partners, CNPC, SINOPEC, and SSTO. This restart will have a significant positive impact on South Sudan's economy, the minister added. DPOC and Bashier Pipeline Company (BAPCO) have been instructed to commence operations immediately. Since the war erupted in Sudan, South Sudans oil exports have plunged. The country has struggled to get any money in its budget as its oil exports, on which it depends for 90% of state revenues, were stalled by the ruptured pipeline in 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 Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump is considering issuing an executive order to save natural gas-powered appliances from federal, state, and city regulations seeking to phase these out of new buildings on environmental concerns, sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Tuesday. The President-elect has attacked incumbent President Joe Biden for many environmental and climate regulations of the current Administration and has vowed to rescind many of these to protect consumer choice. The Biden Administration was mulling over restricting the use of gas stoves, heaters, and other appliances running on gas. In early 2023, amid reports that the Administration was considering a ban, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) told Reuters that the federal agency has not proposed any regulatory action on gas stoves. Moreover, any regulation would be a lengthy process, the commission said two years ago. An executive order to protect gas appliances from regulatory action at the federal and local levels would dovetail with President-elect Trumps pledges to protect consumer choice and not impose any mandates such as those on electric vehicles and gas appliances at homes and businesses. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) said in a 2020 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) that 61% of American households used natural gas for at least one energy end-use. This survey, the most recent by the EIA, revealed that about 47 million U.S. households used natural gas for cooking in 2020, up from 39 million households in 2015. It speaks volumes when an order from the White House is needed to stop our own government from banning natural gas furnaces and water heaters," Karen Harbert, president of the American Gas Association, said in a statement carried by Reuters. Despite the illegal efforts to ban access and use of natural gas, our industry is hard at work to keep life essential energy affordable and reliable especially during the extreme cold we are experiencing right now, Harbert added. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com President-elect Donald Trump wasted no time declaring his intentions to overturn outgoing President Joe Bidens ban on offshore oil and gas drilling. Speaking at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday, Trump vowed to "reverse it immediately" upon taking office on January 20. Biden announced earlier in the week that he had banned drilling on 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. "Banning offshore drilling will not stand," Trump said, pledging to revoke the Biden administrations order, which withdraws 625 million acres of ocean from new development, on day one. Trump also took aim at renewable energy projects, stating, "Were going to try and have a policy where no windmills are being built." While the rhetoric is bold, Trump faces legal and procedural hurdles. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act gives presidents the authority to restrict offshore leasing, but reversing such a withdrawal could require one of two things: an act of Congress or a court battle. A 2019 ruling reinforced the permanence of presidential bans, complicating Trumps path forward. While Bidens late-term move is seen as a nod to environmental groups and coastal states, Trump has long championed the expansion of oil and gas development as the backbone of U.S. energy dominance, framing the issue as critical for jobs, national security, and economic growth. In addition to the offshore ban, Trump said his administration would open up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for energy exploration, reversing another Biden-era restriction. His comments underscore a broader energy strategy focused on fossil fuels and curbing the expansion of renewables. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Chinas state oil major CNOOC and shipping line Cosco were added to a military blacklist compiled by the United States for ties between Chinese businesses and the Peoples Liberation Army. The black list, Bloomberg noted in a report on the news, classifies companies with ties to the Chinese army as military companies, and while such a status carries no sanctions, the federal government discourages U.S. companies from doing business with them, potentially affecting the businesses on the blacklist. This is not the first time the U.S. government has targeted both CNOOC and Cosco. Back in 2019, Cosco was slapped with sanctions for carrying Iranian crude although a year later the sanctions were lifted. CNOOC was also sanctioned, in 2021, and put on a Pentagon blacklist. CNOOC has interests in several onshore and offshore oil and gas projects in the United States but getting blacklisted by the Pentagon could make keeping these interests problematic, as suggested by the company itself recently. CNOOC, which specializes in offshore oil and gas developments in China and internationally, booked a net profit of $5.2 billion (36.93 billion Chinese yuan) for the third quarter, up by 9% compared to the same period of 2023. CNOOC focuses on oil and gas exploration and production and, unlike the other major Chinese state-owned oil giants such as PetroChina, it has much lower exposure to the refining sector, which has weighed this year on company profits amid weak refining margins and fuel demand. The rise in CNOOCs net profit was mostly attributed to record-high production and cost controls, more than offsetting weaker oil prices on international markets, which have reflected weaker Chinese oil demand than previously expected. Cosco is a major tanker operator, with more than 40 tankers in its fleet, including close to 30 VLCCs, commonly known as supertankers. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com A half-mile-long pedestrian bridge spanning the Missouri River between Omaha and Council Bluffs bears the name of former Nebraska Sen. and Gov. Bob Kerrey. Now the Navy is making plans to name its own monument in honor of Kerrey, a former naval officer who received the Medal of Honor for valor during the Vietnam War. Late last week, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro announced that a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, DDG 146, will be named the USS Robert Kerrey. It is most appropriate we do so, for his actions in Vietnam and his continued service to this country well beyond his Naval service, Del Toro said in a statement released Saturday. Destroyers are traditionally named for Navy and Marine Corps war heroes. In recent years, ships have been christened in honor of Medal of Honor recipients Cpl. Jason Dunham, from the Iraq war; Lt. Michael Murphy, from the war in Afghanistan; and Lt. Gen. Frank E. Peterson Jr., the Marine Corps first African-American general. Kerrey told The World-Herald he learned of the honor only a week ago in a call from Del Toro, shortly before the public announcement aboard the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier museum in New York. Del Toro also announced that another future destroyer will be called USS Intrepid. I am very grateful for the recognition, Kerrey said. It causes me to reflect on my time in the Navy, and how important that is. There were difficult times. But in the aggregate, they were the best three years of my life. Kerrey, 81, was born in Lincoln and joined the Navy in 1966 after his graduation from the University of Nebraska with a pharmacy degree. He was inspired to join the Navy by a 1950s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about officers rising up against a seemingly autocratic commander aboard a destroyer during World War II. I read The Caine Mutiny, and I wanted to go out on a destroyer, Kerrey said. Instead he wound up a Navy SEAL officer and was deployed to South Vietnam with SEAL Team 1 in January 1969. Lt. j.g. Kerrey was awarded the Medal of Honor in connection with a March 14, 1969, mission to capture Viet Cong political leaders who had set up a base on an island near Nha Trang. Members of Kerreys platoon had scaled a 350-foot cliff and were descending toward the Viet Cong base when a grenade exploded near his feet, causing multiple wounds. Though his right leg was mangled (and would later be amputated below the knee), he kept directing his team in securing the enemy camp and finding a helicopter evacuation site, according to a Navy account. The Medal of Honor citation cited his courageous and inspiring leadership, valiant fighting spirit, and tenacious devotion to duty in the face of almost overwhelming opposition. Kerrey was the first Navy SEAL to receive the nations highest award for valor. In civilian life after the war, he started a chain of restaurants in Lincoln. In 1982, he ran for governor as a Democrat and narrowly defeated incumbent Gov. Charles Thone, a Republican. Kerrey left office after a single term. He was elected to the Senate in 1988 and reelected in 1994. He mounted an unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 1992 and was defeated by Republican Deb Fischer in a bid to return to the Senate in 2012. Seventy-four Arleigh Burke-class destroyers joined the Navy fleet since the first was commissioned July 4, 1991. Ten more are under construction at two shipyards, Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. Five more have been approved for construction. Each costs about $2.5 billion. The future USS Robert Kerrey and USS Intrepid are part of a group of 10 additional ships authorized by Congress in 2023. Kerrey said he wasnt given a timeline for construction or delivery of the ship. He said he has asked for the keel-laying ceremony, which marks the formal start of construction, to take place in Omaha. Kerrey also said he has asked Celia Parrott of Lakeside, Nebraska, (near Alliance) to serve as the ships sponsor by custom a female civilian selected to bestow good luck and divine protection to the ship and its crew throughout its lifetime. Her duties will include breaking the traditional bottle of champagne over the ships bow when it is christened. Celia is the widow of Gary Parrott, Kerreys fellow SEAL and close, lifelong friend who served in the CIA for years among the Hmong people of Laos. He died in 2021 at 78. When the USS Robert Kerrey is eventually commissioned, it will join a growing list of Navy ships with ties to Nebraska or Nebraskans: USS Nebraska (SSBN 739), an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine commissioned in 1993 and based in Bangor, Washington. USS Omaha (LCS 12), an Independence-class littoral combat ship commissioned in 2018 and based in San Diego. USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5), a Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base commissioned in 2021 and named for a Marine lance corporal from Omaha who received the Medal of Honor for combat action in 1970, during the Vietnam War. Future USS Charles J. French (DDG 142), a planned Arleigh Burke-class destroyer named for an African American sailor with ties to Omaha whose heroism in saving the lives of fellow sailors after their ship was sunk near Guadalcanal in 1942 was overlooked by the Navy for decades. In addition, the Army last year announced that it was naming its new Booker combat vehicle after two heroic soldiers with the same last name, including Pvt. Robert D. Booker of Callaway, Nebraska, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for combat heroism in North Africa in 1943. As Jumia continues its strides to profitability of its businesses in Africa, the company released the distribution and commercial arm of its Travel Business; Jumia Travel to Travelstart. This was recently confirmed as Travelstart signed a commercial and distribution agreement with Jumia to take control of sales, fulfilment and customer service aspects of Jumia Travels online booking websites in all its regions across Africa. This strategic move is to ensure that Jumia re-invest their resources in key markets, services and technology to create the best customer experience in Africa and allow for growth across board. This latest development further reinforces Travelstarts strength as the number one online travel booking agency in Africa. EVP Jumia On-Demand service, Joe Falter, mentioned that Travelstart is the perfect partner to establish the success which Jumia Travel has achieved hitherto. We have a strong belief in the potential of the online travel industry and travel portals in Africa and have built a strong platform across our markets to address this opportunity. In Travelstart, we have found the perfect partner to build on the success Jumia Travel has achieved so far. While we will continue to promote the travel category, Travelstart will be responsible for the operational side of the business. The travel ecosystem in Africa will be further energised by this partnership. This partnership will ensure we remain hyper-focused on our growth and path to profitability as we reinvest our resources in our key markets, services and technology to create the best customer experience in Africa and allow Jumia to thrive, He continued. In addition to Falters statement, the CEO of Travelstart, Stephan Ekbergh, explained how Jumias exclusive distribution partner will help even more travellers in Africa unlock high quality online travel services: Twelve thousand customers travel with us daily. Being Jumias exclusive distribution partner will help even more travellers in Africa unlock high quality online travel services. This new development will enable Travelstart gain larger market share in Nigeria and Kenya where Jumia Travel currently has its largest base. Travelstart also hopes to take advantage of this new partnership to gain new customers in emerging markets, as they currently operate in nine different African countries. WITH ONE WEEK UNTIL SESSION, YUNKER SLAMS POLITICAL REMOVAL AND VOWS TO FIGHT FOR OREGONIANS By Oregon State Representative Dwayne Yunker GRANTS PASS, Ore. With Oregons 2025 Legislative Session set to begin in one week, Rep. Dwayne Yunker (R-Grants Pass) announced his committee assignments while criticizing Oregon House Speaker Julie Fahey for removing him from the House Behavioral Health and Health Care Committee in what he called a transparent political ploy. Yunkers committee assignments include: House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade House Committee on Higher Education & Workforce Development Joint Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education These committees reflect my commitment to making Oregon affordable and creating opportunities for families and businesses, Yunker said. But lets be honestmy removal from the Health Care Committee against my expressed wishes wasnt about policy. It was about silencing my efforts to rein in the Oregon Health Authoritys Medicare for All scheme and OHSUs radical agenda, including their so-called transgender health program. This move wont deter me. Rep. Yunker emphasized another key priority for the 2025 session: election integrity. This session, I am introducing a handful of bills to ensure Oregon complies with federal elections laws and restores confidence in our democratic process. I will also be working directly with federal officials to ensure Oregon prioritizes transparency, accountability, and security in how elections are run. In addition to election integrity, Yunker highlighted his ongoing collaboration with federal agencies to tackle other critical issues facing Oregonians. Ive gone directly to the EPA, U.S. Forest Service, DOJ, and HHS because state leaders are failing Oregonians, said Yunker. With the Trump administration returning, I now expect real responsiveness and accountability. Regardless of committee assignments, Yunker pledged to keep fighting for Oregonians. My focus remains on the issues that matter mostaffordability, opportunity, transparency, and ensuring free and fair elections. Oregon has unmatched geography, climate, and people. With sound leadership and compliance with federal law, we can unleash the potential of our great state. He also criticized state leaders for prioritizing partisan agendas over solutions. The Democrats can play games with committee assignments, but they cant stop me from advocating for the people of Oregon. The fight is just beginning. ### By Oregon State Senator Brian Boquist, Highlights, excerpts from Sen. Boquist newsletter Oregon Capitol Insider. 1/2/2025. Capital Chatter: 2025 is off to a chatty start: To whet your political appetite for 2025, here is a spicy goulash of quotations, anecdotes and other recent observations from Oregonians who hang around the State Capitol Gov. Tina Kotek, end-of-year video: I have been mission-focused, whether through executive actions, budget choices or policy decisions, and were seeing concrete results. If Koteks statement is true then why is she the most hated Governor in history according to polls? The other quotes from Jama, Drazen and others tell us the feckless Legislature is the same old same old! Portland Tribune. 12/29/2024. Oregon ranks high as homelessness rises nationwide, federal report says . The report also notes that Oregon frequently reports the highest rate of unsheltered families in the nation . At 66%, Oregon is one of three states including Hawaii and California where more than two-thirds of the homeless are unsheltered Interesting the blue map of highest homeless states is the blue political map on page 18 of the report. OR WA CA on the left cost are at the top all Democrat control for decades, and CA is 49% of all homeless per the report. If you dig deeper in other states it leads to blue political cities. Why is homelessness so great in Democrat cities and states? In Oregon the feckless Legislature with the Democrat politicians fund nonprofits, unions and donors who siphon off the government money instead of building inexpensive housing. Government affordable housing construction costs are 40% higher than regular construction costs per legislative hearings due to government regulations. Your Oregon News. 1/2/2025. New laws go into effect in Oregon to help curtail medicine costs, reduce drug use on transit: Protections for consumers, schoolchildren and warehouse workers are among the new laws that started on Jan. 1. This is a decent summary of bills taking effect n Oregon though most will do little if anything to help the average Oregonian given passage is meaningless with out implementation. The feckless Legislature is simply a propaganda pawn for the Executive Branch controlled by Democrat statewide elected s more interested in fighting Trump than helping citizens. ## Get the entire newsletter in your email box which includes the complete newsletter with more news: People can send questions, inquiries or newsletter subscriptions request to [email protected] or visit calloutthemedia.com to fill out the subscription form Jungceylon invites all kids to join the Childrens Day event, Giant Dog Fest with Friends Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket, is hosting a special Childrens Day celebration, Jungceylon Kids Day 2025 x Giant Dog: Giant Dog Fest with Friends. Event Highlights: Meet gentle giant dogs of various breeds, including Newfoundland, Caucasian Shepherd, and Alaskan Malamute. Enjoy a fun-filled Dog Talents show featuring performances by mischievous canine stars. Visit the adorable Pomeranian Cafe, where over 20 fluffy little Pomeranians await to greet the kids. Shop at the Dog Cart, offering stylish pet clothing, accessories, and more. Special Activity: On January 11, 2025, join the Kids Day SPECIAL event for the Puppy Game with lots of exciting prizes to win. Event Details: January 1012, 2025 11:00 AM 10:00 PM The Jungle Zone, Jungceylon Shopping Center, Patong, Phuket For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/JungceylonFanpage Contact: 076-600-111 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 A tomb recently unearthed in Egypt shows that medicine and magic were once equally revered, and expertise in both earned a long-dead physician to the pharaohs a place of honor among the ancient world's most esteemed. While ancient Egypt is well known for its architectural marvels, the society also made great strides in the field of medicine, and the oldest known document mentioning doctors comes from Egypt. The pharaoh had fallen ill, and documents that survived to the present day said a physician cured the ailment of his nostrils. The ancient Egyptians would go on to change the world of medicine over their nearly 3,000-year history, including learning about the cardiovascular system, providing treatment for dementia and depression and the early days of dentistry. Now, archaeologists working at the famed Saqqara cemetery have discovered the final resting place of a royal doctorboth physician and magician. Saqqara, located in the ancient city of Memphis, acts as an "open-air museum" because of the rich history on its soil, according to the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Kings from the first ever dynasty can be found here, as well as the Apis Bull that served as the physical incarnation of the god Ptah. "A joint French-Swiss archaeological mission has uncovered the mastaba tomb of a royal physician named 'Teti Neb Fu' in the southern part of Saqqara, dating back to the Old Kingdom during the reign of King Pepi II," the ministry announced in a Jan. 6 Facebook post. Pepi II became king at an early age during the sixth dynasty of ancient Egypt, between 2305 and 2118 B.C., according to Britannica, making the tomb somewhere around 4,000 years old. The tomb shows evidence of ancient looters, relatively common, but the walls not only remain intact, but are also beautifully decorated. "The tomb is adorned with stunning carvings and vibrant artwork, including a beautifully painted false door and scenes of funerary offerings," officials said. The sarcophagus found inside the tomb was also inscribed with the name of its occupant and his titles, according to the post. Because of the burial location in Saqqara, researchers knew he was important, but Teti Neb Fu's official titles named him as the chief palace physician. Teti Neb Fu was also called a priest and the "magician" of the goddess Serket, known as the goddess of venomous creatures, suggesting he was an expert in treating venomous bites or stings, officials said. He was also given the title of "chief dentist and director of medicinal plants" on his sarcophagus, according to the post. Excavations in this area of Saqarra began in 2022, to unearth the graves of state employees for King Pepi who are buried near him and his wives, officials said. Saqarra is about 25 miles southwest of Cairo, Egypt. 2025 The News Tribune (Tacoma, Wash.). 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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Poofs of smoke and coal ash wafted from a 30-foot pit on Marshall Mesa as an excavator the size of a small house scooped dirt and coal out of the ground. The excavator broke chunks of coal from an underground seam and dumped them onto a pile of dirt and rock, where a bulldozer mixed it all together. A tanker truck occasionally blasted the hot coal with water to bring down the heat. Ultimately, all of this debris will be returned to the ground and buried. And, hopefully, a 100-year-old underground fire will breathe its last because the coal will be busted apart and smothered with dirt, reducing the potential for combustion. "It's really difficult for a fire to sustain itself because the grain-to-grain contact isn't there," said Jeff Graves, program director for inactive mines at the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety. The mining division began extinguishing the underground coal-seam fire on Marshall Mesa in November, and the project is expected to be finished in January. Exhausting the fire became a priority after the smoldering coal seam was investigated as a possible cause of the devastating 2021 Marshall fire. It was eventually ruled out. The Marshall coal fire is one of 38 listed in the mining division's 2018 report on underground mine fires across Colorado. It was considered a low risk because it did not have high fire activity. The report, however, noted the fire was burning beneath a popular recreation area. "The Marshall fire played a role because of the community input and concern," Graves said. The mining division this year finished a similar project to douse an underground fire at the Lewis Coal Mine fire off Cherryvale Road in unincorporated Boulder County. That fire burned for years underneath the Davidson Ditch and monitors had noticed surface fracturing and cracking, increased venting and gas emissions, and stressed vegetation in recent years, although the threat of a wildfire was low, according to a project description on the Boulder County website. The mining division is attacking underground fires over the next 12 years after receiving nearly $10 million annually from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Marshall Mesa coal fire will cost an estimated $870,000 to extinguish. The coal-seam fire has burned for at least a century on Marshall Mesa, land that is now part of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. The open space, which is wildly popular with hikers and mountain bikers, is accessible at a trailhead near the intersection of Colorado 93 and Colorado 170. Last year, the park received 83,431 visits, said Phil Yates, a Boulder open space spokesman. The Marshall fire ignited on Dec. 30, 2021, during an intense windstorm that relit smoldering embers from a week-old fire on the property of an international religious cult and also caused an Xcel Energy power line to snap and send sparks into dry grasses on Marshall Mesa, according to the investigation into the cause. The fire killed two people and destroyed more than $2 billion in property, making it the most destructive wildfire in Colorado history. 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 Marshall Mesa Trailhead was closed from Dec. 20, 2021, to Feb. 18, 2022, as the wildfire's cause was investigated. Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty said the underground fire almost certainly did not start the deadly blaze. Still, people in the community wanted something done about it. No one knows exactly what caused the fire to start burning underground, said Jeremy Reineke, the project manager for the Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety. Experts know the fire dates back to at least the 1920s because of a historical photograph of a boy standing on the mesa with smoke billowing from the ground and fractures in the earth where he stands. Coal mines operated in the Marshall Mesa area from 1863 until 1939. It's not known whether miners did something to cause the fire and just left it after failing to extinguish it, or if the coal spontaneously combusted after being hit with right mix of heat and oxygen. The underground fire smoldered for years as employees at the mining division monitored it. "It hasn't necessarily been an extremely intense fire," Graves said. Over the years, monitors had noticed patches of snowmelt caused by the underground heat. But no one in recent memory has recorded venting or fracturing from the underground fire, he said. "Coal is so insidious," Reineke said. "It can sit there and smolder at low temperatures for a very long time with very little oxygen." On a recent weekday, the excavator hit an occasional spot that was smoldering, sending smoke upward. But no flames ever grew from the heat. "Everybody has visions that you're digging up an open charcoal grill with big burning flames," Reineke said. That doesn't happen. But the on-site workers are well aware of lingering fears from the Marshall fire and worries that smoldering coal and high winds could trigger another wildfire. Precautions are in place, Reineke said. Employees at the site are constantly monitoring the pit with infrared cameras and thermometers to record temperatures. When the excavator hits a hot spot, a tanker truck sprays it with water. Coal needs to reach 700 degrees before it combusts, but so far the hottest spots have measured at 450 degrees. There's a weather station in an office trailer at Marshall Mesa, so workers can get real-time meteorological data. If winds hit 15 mph or higher, work stops to prevent sparks from flying through dry grass in the open space. That work stoppage in strong winds also prevents the spread of coal ash, which is made of fine particles that can affect people's breathing. The mining division also keeps 30,000 gallons of water in two on-site tanks should a fire break out. So far, that hasn't happened, Reineke said. The reclamation project should wrap up in early January, at which point state mining officials will turn the site back over to Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. The open space department will spend an estimated eight months improving the trailhead's parking area and vehicle and pedestrian access. There will also be additions to improve accessibility for those who have limited mobility, and new restrooms will be built along with a new shade shelter. And more picnic tables, bike racks and benches will be added, Yates said. When the project is finished, the excavation team will have moved 182,000 cubic yards of material, which is about 72,000 pickup-truck loads of coal, rock and dirt. And the team is saving some big chunks of coal and fossilized rocks to display at the park so visitors can experience the land's history. 2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Mecca Hills will be part of the new Chuckwalla National Monument that Joe Biden is set to proclaim, as he looks to cement his environmental legacy in the last few days of his presidency. Joe Biden is set to designate two new US national monumentssprawling parksin California as he looks to secure his environmental legacy in the waning days of his presidency. Just before Donald Trump is due to move into the White House, the 82-year-old will proclaim the 624,000-acre (252,000-hectare) Chuckwalla National Monument, near Joshua Tree National Park in southern California, the White House said Tuesday. The move will protect the area from drilling, mining, solar energy farms and other industrial activity, and comes after lobbying from Native American tribes who have used the land for millennia. Biden will also create the 224,000-acre Sattitla National Monument in the state's far north, at the border with Oregon, offering that area the same environmental safeguards. Biden, who was in California on Tuesday, had been scheduled to announce the new designations during a side trip to the Coachella Valley, but high windsfanning a major fire near Los Angelescaused him to postpone. The announcement will now be made at a White House ceremony next week. "The stunning canyons and winding paths of the Chuckwalla National Monument represent a true unmatched beauty," said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary. "It was my honor to visit this area to explore and meet with federal, state, tribal and local leaders to hear about the need to protect and conserve this sacred area." The new designation "will protect important spiritual and cultural values tied to the land and wildlife. I am so grateful that future generations will have the opportunity to experience what makes this area so unique," Haaland said. Biden's four-year term in office has seen the creation of eight other national monuments and the expansion of four more. The latest move will mean he has conserved more lands and waters than any other US president, the White House said. On Monday, he signed an executive order banning offshore drilling in an immense area of coastal waters, encompassing 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. Trump reduced the size of national monuments during his first term in the White House, and environmentalists fear the next four years could see similar chipping away at the protected status of public lands, as the Republican seeks to expand fossil fuel extraction. Biden's proclamations are the latest in a string of last-minute climate policy actions that seem intended to frustrate what environmentalists fear will be the wrecking ball of another Trump presidency. 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. 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: Chemically modified RNA can be made to fluoresce and is also suitable for the search for new active substances. Credit: University of Innsbruck The specific labeling of RNA in living cells poses many challenges. In a new article published in the journal Nature Chemical Biology, researchers from the University of Innsbruck describe a structure-guided approach to the formation of covalent (i.e., irreversibly tethered) RNA-ligand complexes. The key to this is the modification of the original ligand with a reactive "handle" that allows it to react with a nucleobase at the RNA binding site. This was first demonstrated in vitro and in vivo using the example of an RNA riboswitch. The versatility of the approach is highlighted by the first covalent "fluorescent light-up RNA aptamer" (coFLAP). This system retains its strong fluorescence during imaging in living cells even after washing, can be used for high-resolution microscopy and is particularly suitable for FRAP (fluorescence recovery after photobleaching) for monitoring intracellular RNA dynamics. "In addition, we were able to develop a fluorophore with a second handle for bioorthogonal chemistry, which enables a simple pull-down of the covalently bound target RNA (traceable by fluorescence spectroscopy)," explains chemist Ronald Micura from the Department of Organic Chemistry and the Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI) at the University of Innsbruck. "Finally, we have shown the suitability of this strategy for the development of potential drug lead structures that bind covalently to an RNA target." Joint success One key to the success of the study lies in the willingness to overcome seemingly insurmountable experimental hurdles with complementary methods. A total of four working groups from the Innsbruck universities, which are jointly based at the Center for Chemistry and Biomedicine, have brought together the chemical synthesis of the fluorophores and the RNA (team led by Ronald Micura), their mass spectrometric sequencing (team led by Kathrin Breuker), the crucial in vivo applications (team led by Alexandra Lusser) and finally the necessary high-resolution microscopy. "We benefit greatly from working together in a joint research center, where we can exchange ideas between the working groups regardless of institutional affiliation and quickly try out new approaches," says Lusser from the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biocenter at the Medical University Innsbruck. More information: Raphael Bereiter et al, Engineering covalent small moleculeRNA complexes in living cells, Nature Chemical Biology (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01801-3 Journal information: Nature Chemical Biology 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 Local environmentalists and offshore drilling opponents are welcoming President Joe Biden's announcement that he is ordering a ban on new oil and gas drilling that includes along the California coastline, arguing the risks far outweigh the benefits. The move comes as the days tick down on the end of Biden's term; Biden is using his authority under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, or OCSLA, to restrict an area greater than 625 million acresthe largest withdrawal in U.S. history. The safeguards he is ordering will restrict new offshore drilling and natural gas leasing along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and Alaska's Northern Bering Sea. Surfrider Foundation CEO Chad Nelsen called the latest restrictions announced by Biden "fantastic news." "Offshore drilling, as we saw in Huntington Beach just a few years back, is a dirty and dangerous business," he said. "It's unpopular, it threatens our coastal environment and communities." For Southern Californians, the repercussions of a 25,000-gallon oil spill off Huntington Beach in 2021 are still fresh, an incident that killed wildlife and shut down beaches and coastal fishing for weeks. A $50 million settlement was reached in class-action claims made by local fishing interests, tourism companies and homeowners and millions more paid to government agencies. Nelsen said Biden's action helps solidify the president's pro-conservation stance to protect ocean and land across the country. Garry Brown, founder and president of Orange County Coastkeeper, said several environmental organizations got together last year to sign letters to Congress and the White House urging the move. Already, there has been a moratorium on off-shore leases in state of California waters since 1969typically within 3 nautical miles off the coastand the last federal lease sale in the area was in 1984, Brown said. "As much as we are delighted and this adds further protection, we have for several decades now been pretty adamant that there will be no more oil drilling off California's coast," Brown said. "We're glad to see more protections, but we didn't really feel too much of a threat." Still, Gov. Gavin Newsom called the president's decision a "bold action." "Hundreds of miles of California's iconic coastline are now fully protected from expanded offshore drilling, thanks to today's action by President Biden. For decades, we have led the fight to protect the Pacific Coast and the millions of Californians who call these coastal communities home," Newsom said in a statement. Port of Los Angeles spokesman Phillip Sanfield said the agency is not aware of any impacts to be expected locally from Biden's new order. Representatives with the Western State Petroleum Association could not be immediately reached for comment. What needs to be figured out is the future of the existing platforms and operations still happening off the coast, Brown said. There are approximately 30 existing leases offshore Southern California that are decades old. Nothing in the president's order would affect rights under existing leases. "That's going to be a nightmare for years to come. They are ending their usefulness and lifespan, but it's so expensive to take them out," Brown said. "There's no clear way on how those are going to be taken out." 2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Sand is among the most used natural resources on Earth, second only to water. It's an essential component of cell phones, concrete, glass, cosmetics, roads, and many other modern conveniences. For one billion people living in coastal areas around the world, these sand grains also defend against intense storms and sea level rise fueled by climate change. Coastal beaches and dunes act like shock absorbers against extreme weather and provide a habitat for species like shorebirds and sea turtles to breed and for seabirds to raise their young. Sand is also key to land reclamation, the process of creating land through engineering where there once was water, and coastal armoring, whereby communities build infrastructure in an attempt to slow wave erosion along their shoreline. Though plentiful in arid regions, most sand is not viable for commercial use or construction. Desert sand, whipped by years of wind, has smooth grains that prevent it from binding with most materials used in industrial applications. By contrast, sand extracted from rivers, lakes, or quarries is highly desirable for its irregular, angular grains. Increased demand from the construction industry has led to sand scarcity in some regions of the world and shifted attention to sand sourced from marine and coastal environments, also known as ocean sand. This in turn has fueled rapid growth in the dredging industry, often at the expense of coastal communities and environmental health. We've gathered three experts who study Earth's surface, the ocean economy, and coastal communities to answer questions about the consequences of ocean sand extraction and its role in climate change adaptation around the world. Our scholars include Jean-Baptiste Jouffray, a Wallenberg Postdoctoral Fellow at the Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions in the Woods Institute for the Environment. An expert on the industrialization of the ocean, Jouffray realized that few academics had considered the social and ecological consequences of ocean sand extraction. He led a global research team to produce a 2023 report that lays out the sustainability and equity challenges of sand extracted offshore and along the coast. Additional expertise comes from Center for Ocean Solutions lead scientist Colette Wabnitz, who studies how social and ecological systems respond to change with a focus on small-scale fisheries, sustainable development, and ocean finance. Wabnitz and Jouffray are joined by geologist Mathieu Lapotre, an assistant professor of Earth and planetary sciences at the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, who studies the physics and physical processes that shape planetary surfaces. Most recently, his lab used AI to identify the formation and transport of individual sand grains, a potential tool for identifying sand that's been mined illegally. 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. Where does sand come from? Jouffray: In the tropics, island sand is produced by the disintegration of calcium carbonate shells and skeletons belonging to reef-building organismsand hungry fish! Parrotfish in particular are major producers of island sand, digesting pieces of coral and turning them into sand-grade sediment when they excrete. Lapotre: Individual sand grains range in thickness from a single human hair to a standard pencil lead. This makes sand just the right size to be easily transported and deposited by rivers and wind. You'll find sand throughout Earth's landscapesforming sandbars in rivers, collecting into windblown desert dunes, and accumulating under glaciers where ice grinds against bedrock. Sand ultimately accumulates along the beach as a result of all of these processes. Rivers transport sand from uplands to deltas, which in turn redistribute sand along the coast aided by waves and winds. Coastal erosion can also generate sand locally, especially if coast-forming rocks are sandstones, which are ancient sand accumulations themselves. The many colorsand shapesof sand Around the world and on other planets, sand takes a stunning variety of forms and colors: On the island of Hawai'i, Papakolea Beach attracts visitors with its dark green sand. Hawai'ian volcanoes are composed of a green mineral known as olivine, which erodes over time and nourishes the island's beaches. In the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, tiny glass-enclosed marine algae known as diatoms wash ashore. Their enchanting forms compose the sand that protects against shoreline erosion. When viewed under a microscope, the diatoms appear like tiny stars. On the island of Bermuda, tiny marine organisms known as foraminifera tint sand pink. When they die, their calcium carbonate shells sink and combine with white quartz to make the beaches seemingly blush. On Mars, the erosion of volcanic basalt creates black sand. Iron oxides are often concentrated into a fine layer of dust atop the sand, giving the planet its famous red hue and a dramatic red carpet welcome to visiting NASA robots. "The origin of sand is really multifaceted. It's much more than wind against rock," said Wabnitz. "To know that beaches come from such different things means we can work toward ensuring that the mechanisms creating our beaches continue to be sustained." How does sand mining affect people and the environment? Jouffray: Dredgers impact benthic habitats by dragging machinery along the seabed. They also create what are called turbidity plumes, huge clouds of sediment caused by vacuuming sand into the vessel's storage hold and releasing excess seawater. These plumes can blanket and smother sensitive ecosystems like coral reefs or seagrass beds that require sunlight to survive. Lapotre: A landscape's topography, wind, and water all dictate where sand accumulates. Sand mining disturbs that natural balance, and it can have ripple effects. One example of this is in Louisiana, where damming upstream of the Mississippi Delta reduced sediment transport to the coast. This, combined with sea level rise, results in significant land loss. In addition to reshaping the landscape, sand mining can disrupt entire ecosystems and release pollutants that are trapped in relatively old sand deposits. Wabnitz: Sand mining affects the environment in important ways. I saw this first-hand working in Barbados on an impact assessment associated with a port expansion project. Dredging created sand plumes that threatened to smother a large reef nearby. To mitigate this, we excavated and relocated the corals. While the hope was for some of the system to recover, it is impossible to fully transplant an entire ecosystem and substantial losses are likely. The people who bear the consequences of sand mining often have little or no opportunity to participate in decisions about whether or not sand mining takes place. When left out of these processes, communities can lose the very land upon which they live, their home, and the ecosystems they depend on for food, their livelihoods, their sense of place, their cultural heritage, and so much more. I'm currently based in Vancouver, where First Nations and other groups have opposed a project that would double the size of Canada's largest port through land reclamation. The environmental impacts are not clear, especially for culturally important species like orcas and salmon. The land itself holds deep cultural meaning for First Nations peoples. How is sand connected to climate change impacts and adaptation? Jouffray: Sand is essential to stabilize the shoreline in the face of climate change and sea level rise. Beach nourishment and coastal armoring have become common climate adaptation strategies. But the sand has to come from somewhere and it often happens at the expense of natural sand features, like nearby dunes or barrier islands. Dredging in one place usually accelerates coastal erosion elsewhere. In addition, the sand used to replenish or "nourish" eroded areas is just piled onto the beach, with no life in it. Sea turtles that nest on renourished beaches do poorly because their eggs cannot breathe in the densely packed grains. Wabnitz: The vast majority of the Pacific region's population resides within five kilometers of the coast and is at significant risk from sea level rise. Changing sea levels also changes which land is above water. Even though 39 leaders from the Alliance of Small Island States have issued a declaration that the boundaries of island states cannot be redrawn due to climate-change-related sea-level rise, losing sand or an island to climate change means losing homes, livelihoods, and cultural heritage. What makes sand difficult to regulate, and what options exist to curb the negative consequences of sand dredged from the ocean? Jouffray: One could argue that sand is paradigmatic of the Anthropocene, which refers to when human activity began to have a profound and unprecedented impact on the planet. It is everywhere around us. We need it for everything we do. Yet from a time-scale perspective, we are extracting it at a much faster rate than it can naturally replenish, and with severe human and environmental consequences. We can learn lessons from other natural resources that span political boundaries, like fisheries. Similar to the seafood sector, sand mining has distinct small-scale or artisanal operations in addition to heavily industrialized dredging activities. Regulating both, disseminating best practice standards, and curbing illegal practices will be critical. Governments can also monitor dredging activity by tracking in near real time where vessels are and using satellite imagery to identify turbidity plumes or illegal activities. Wabnitz: Regulatory mechanisms must account for the different entities affected by sand mining. This means recognizing both the environmental and the human consequences of sand extraction. Effective regulation means not just regulating big businesses but also, and especially, ensuring that smaller communities that depend on these sand systems in one way or another, have a seat at the table and a meaningful voice in the process. At the international level, discourse about reparations for loss and damage from climate change often focuses on "land loss." But land is sand, so sand needs to be a part of the broader loss and damage conversation. 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 I first delved into the study on hurricane preparedness among communities in Florida, I was struck by a paradox. Here we have a group of individuals living in one of the most hurricane-prone regions of the United States, yet their preparedness often leaves much to be desired. Why do so many Floridians, despite living with the annual threat of storms, fail to take the steps that could one day save their lives or mitigate disaster-related losses? This question resonates deeply for anyone living in the state. College students as a microcosm of broader challenges For college students, the barriers to preparedness include tight budgets, academic pressures, and unfamiliarity with local emergency resources. Behavioral factorslike perceived control over actions, societal norms, and expected outcomesplay significant roles in determining whether someone takes action. It's not just about knowing a hurricane might hit; it's about believing that your preparation will make a difference and feeling empowered to act. This dynamic is mirrored in Florida's broader population. Many residents view hurricanes as inevitable but distant threats. There's often an overreliance on last-minute preparation, with people rushing to stock up on supplies as a storm approaches. But hurricanes are unpredictable, and delays in preparation can lead to severe consequencesespecially for those in vulnerable regions. The role of social norms and community One striking insight from our study, published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, was the power of subjective normsessentially peer influence. Among college students, seeing peers prioritize preparedness increased their likelihood of doing the same significantly. For the general population, community norms play a similar role. Neighbors and local organizations can either foster a culture of readiness or perpetuate complacency. If preparedness becomes a visible, collective effort, it's far more likely to influence individual behavior. Community networks in Florida, especially in coastal and rural areas, have a unique role to play. Social groups, churches, and neighborhood associations can act as hubs for disseminating information, coordinating evacuation plans, and even pooling resources. These networks are particularly critical for elderly residents or individuals with mobility challenges, who may struggle to prepare on their own. Perceived control and accessibility Another key factor is perceived behavioral controlhow capable someone feels of carrying out specific actions. This extends beyond students to include people with varying socioeconomic circumstances. A family living paycheck-to-paycheck might find it difficult to set aside funds for emergency supplies, while someone without reliable transportation might question how they'll evacuate. Florida's emergency management agencies have made strides in addressing these gaps, but more can be done. For example, distributing free or subsidized hurricane kits, ensuring accessible transportation for evacuations, and providing multilingual resources can help reduce barriers. Empowering people with practical tools and clear information builds confidence and readiness. Overcoming risk perception bias One of the more surprising findings from the study was that risk perceptionhow likely and severe people thought a hurricane might bedidn't significantly influence their decisions to prepare. This aligns with a common psychological phenomenon: the tendency to underestimate risks until they're imminent. For Floridians who have experienced multiple hurricanes without major personal impact, there's often a sense of invulnerability. Changing this mindset requires a shift in how preparedness messages are framed. Instead of focusing solely on the potential devastation of hurricanes, campaigns can emphasize actionable steps and their tangible benefits. For instance, rather than saying, "A Category 4 hurricane could destroy your home," messaging could focus on, "Securing your windows can reduce damage by X%." Concrete, relatable advice is more likely to motivate action. 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. Building resilient communities Preparedness is not just an individual responsibility; it's a collective effort. Local governments, businesses, and community organizations all have roles to play. Businesses, for instance, can offer incentives for employees to prepare early, such as discounts on emergency supplies or time off to finalize evacuation plans. Schools can integrate disaster education into their curricula, teaching children and teens practical skills like assembling emergency kits or mapping evacuation routes. In my experience, some of the most effective initiatives are those that foster a sense of community. Neighborhood preparedness events, where residents come together to learn and share resources, can be transformative. Not only do they equip individuals with knowledge, but they also build relationships that can be lifesaving during a disaster. Preparing for the long haul As climate change increases the intensity and frequency of hurricanes, Florida's need for robust preparedness strategies has never been greater. This includes investing in resilient infrastructure, such as storm-resistant buildings and flood mitigation systems, and enhancing emergency communication channels. It also means tailoring preparedness efforts to the unique needs of diverse populations, from students and retirees to immigrant communities and low-income families. Ultimately, hurricane preparedness is about more than surviving the stormit's about building a culture of resilience. When communities come together, equipped with the knowledge, resources, and support they need, they're not just weathering disasters; they're emerging stronger from them. Whether you're a student, a lifelong Floridian, or a newcomer to the state, preparedness is a shared responsibility. And with small, consistent actions, we can all contribute to a safer, more resilient Florida. This story is part of Science X Dialog, where researchers can report findings from their published research articles. Visit this page for information about Science X Dialog and how to participate. More information: Amer Hamad Issa Abukhalaf et al, Understanding hurricane preparedness behaviors: The case study of Florida college students, International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2024.105097 Dr. Amer Hamad Issa Abukhalaf is an Assistant Professor in the Nieri Department at Clemson University. He earned his doctorate from the University of Florida. Dr. Abukhalaf's research focuses on risk management, mental health, safety design, and crisis management. He also holds a bachelor's degree in engineering and a master's in executive management from Ashland University in Ohio. Dr. Abukhalaf is a member of the Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery Planning Division at the American Planning Association and a certified Project Management Institute practitioner. He has received the University of Florida Outstanding Merit Award in both 2021 and 2023. Additionally, Dr. Abukhalaf has authored 26 peer-reviewed papers in journals, including the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, Disaster Prevention and Management, and Natural Hazards. 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 new computer model visualizes material in the lower mantle that cannot come from subducted plates. Credit: Sebastian Noe / ETH Zurich Geophysicists at ETH Zurich are using models of the lower mantle to identify areas where earthquake waves behave differently than previously assumed. This indicates the presence of zones of rocks that are colder, or have a different composition, than the surrounding rocks. This finding challenges our current understanding of the Earth's plate tectonicsand presents the researchers with a major mystery. No one can see inside the Earth. Nor can anyone drill deep enough to take rock samples from the mantle, the layer between the Earth's core and outermost, rigid layer, the lithosphere, or measure temperature and pressure there. That's why geophysicists use indirect methods to see what's going on deep beneath our feet. For example, they use seismograms, or earthquake recordings, to determine the speed at which earthquake waves propagate. They then use this information to calculate the internal structure of the Earth. This is very similar to how doctors use ultrasound to image organs, muscles or veins inside the body without opening them up. Here's how it works: when the Earth trembles, seismic waves spread out from the epicenter in all directions. On their way through the Earth, they are refracted, diffracted or reflected. The speed at which the waves spread depends on the type of wave, but also on the density and elasticity of the material through which the waves pass. Seismographic stations record these different waves, and on the basis of these recordings, geophysicists can draw conclusions about the structure and composition of the Earth and examine the processes that take place inside it. Using seismic recordings, Earth scientists determined the position of submerged tectonic plates throughout the Earth's mantle. They always found them where they expected them to be: in an area known as subduction zones, where two plates meet and one subducts beneath the other into the Earth's interior. This has helped scientists investigate the plate tectonic cycle, i.e., the emergence and destruction of plates at Earth's surface, through our planet's history. Global distribution of seismic stations, receiver locations, and seismic wave speed anomalies used to construct the FWI model REVEAL. Credit: Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-77399-2 Plate remnants where there shouldn't be any Now, however, a team of geophysicists from ETH Zurich and the California Institute of Technology has made a surprising discovery: using a new high-resolution model, they have discovered further areas in the Earth's interior that look like the remains of submerged plates. Yet, these are not located where they were expected; instead, they are under large oceans or in the interior of continentsfar away from plate boundaries. There is also no geological evidence of past subduction there. This study was recently published in the journal Scientific Reports. What is new about their modeling approach is that the ETH researchers are not just using one type of earthquake wave to study the structure of the Earth's interior, but all of them. Experts call the procedure full-waveform inversion. This makes the model very computationally intensive, which is why the researchers used the Piz Daint supercomputer at the CSCS in Lugano. Is there a lost world beneath the Pacific Ocean? "Apparently, such zones in the Earth's mantle are much more widespread than previously thought," says Thomas Schouten, first author and doctoral student at the Geological Institute of ETH Zurich. One of the newly discovered zones is under the western Pacific. However, according to current plate tectonic theories and knowledge, there should be no material from subducted plates there, because it is impossible that there were subduction zones nearby in the recent geological history. The researchers do not know for certain what material is involved instead, and what that would mean for Earth's internal dynamics. "That's our dilemma. With the new high-resolution model, we can see such anomalies everywhere in the Earth's mantle. But we don't know exactly what they are or what material is creating the patterns we have uncovered." It's like a doctor who has been examining blood circulation with ultrasound for decades and finds arteries exactly where he expects them, says ETH professor Andreas Fichtner. "Then if you give him a new, better examination tool, he suddenly sees an artery in the buttock that doesn't really belong there. That's exactly how we feel about the new findings," explains the wave physicist. He developed the model in his group and wrote the code. Difference between computed seismograms for REVEAL with and without the seismic anomaly beneath the Pacific ocean. Credit: Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-77399-2 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. Extracting more information from waves So far, the researchers can only speculate. "We think that the anomalies in the lower mantle have a variety of origins," says Schouten. He believes it is possible that they are not just cold plate material that has subducted in the last 200 million years, as previously assumed. "It could be either ancient, silica-rich material that has been there since the formation of the mantle about 4 billion years ago and has survived despite the convective movements in the mantle, or zones where iron-rich rocks accumulate as a consequence of these mantle movements over billions of years," he notes. For the doctoral student, this means above all that more research with even better models is needed to see further details of Earth's interior. "The waves we use for the model essentially only represent one property, namely the speed at which they travel through the Earth's interior," says the Earth scientist. However, this does not do justice to the Earth's complex interior. "We have to calculate the different material parameters that could generate the observed speeds of the different wave types. Essentially, we have to dive deeper into the material properties behind the wave speed," says Schouten. More information: Thomas L. A. Schouten et al, Full-waveform inversion reveals diverse origins of lower mantle positive wave speed anomalies, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-77399-2 Journal information: Scientific Reports 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: Great Salt Lake 2024. Credit: Brian Richter, president, Sustainable Waters The Great Salt Lake has lost more than 15 billion cubic yards of water over the past three decades, is getting shallower at the rate of 4 inches a year, and an analysis of its water budget suggests reducing irrigation is necessary for saving it. The study published in Environmental Challenges shows that 62% of the river water bound for the lake is diverted for human uses, with agricultural activities responsible for nearly three-quarters of that percentage. "The research highlights the alarming role of water consumption for feeding livestock in driving the lake's rapid depletion," said co-author William Ripple, distinguished professor of ecology at Oregon State University, who notes that 80% of agricultural water use is for irrigating alfalfa and hay crops. To stabilize the lake and begin refilling it, the authors propose cutting human water consumption in the Great Salt Lake watershed by 35%, including a reduction in irrigated alfalfa production, a fallowing of much of the region's irrigated grass hay fields and compensation for farmers and ranchers who lose income. "The lake is of tremendous ecological, economic, cultural and spiritual significance in the region and beyond," said Ripple, a member of OSU's College of Forestry. "All of those values are in severe jeopardy because of the lake's dramatic depletion over the last few decades." The authors used data from the Utah Division of Water Resources to build a detailed water budget for the Great Salt Lake basin for the years 1989 through 2022. On average, inputs to the lakeriver inflows and precipitationduring the study period lagged behind consumption and evaporation at the rate of 500 million cubic yards per year. The water budget has been in a deficit situation for much of the past 100 years and the numbers have worsened with climate change and drought, the authors say. "Abnormally large snowmelt inflow during the 1980s and 1990s served to temporarily obscure the long-term decline in lake levels, and the lake actually reached its highest level in more than a century in 1987," Ripple said. "But it has been dropping by roughly 4 inches per year on average since then." Great Salt Lake. Credit: Brian Richter, president, Sustainable Waters The Great Salt Lake, which has no outlet, is the largest saline lake in the Western Hemisphere and the eighth largest in the world. Its 21,000-square-mile drainage basin includes the Wasatch Mountains, whose snowfall accounts for much of the basin's water replenishment. A biodiversity hotspot, the lake sustains more than 10 million migratory birds and 350 bird species. Declining lake levels threaten critical habitats and could disrupt food webs, Ripple said. The lake directly supports 9,000 jobs and annually fuels $2.5 billion in economic activity in the form of recreation, mining and brine shrimp harvesting, the paper points out. It's the world's largest supplier of brine shrimp eggs, a food source that underpins global aquaculture, but as the lake shrinks and salinity increases, the shrimp become physiologically stressed and don't produce as well. 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. Also, as the lake gets smaller, human health risk grows in the form of wind-carried dust from the exposed saline lakebed, or playa. Five percent of the Great Salt Lake playa is fine particulate matter that can enter the lungs and cause a range of pulmonary problems, and particularly troublesome, the scientists say, is the presence of toxic heavy metals, residues of the region's history of mining, smelting and oil refining. Depending on which conservation measures are deployedincluding crop shifting, reducing municipal and industrial use, and leasing water rights from irrigatorsthe authors propose that farmers and ranchers who lose income from using less water could be compensated at a cost ranging from $29 to $124 per Utah resident per year. The state's population is 3.4 million. "Revenues from growing both irrigated alfalfa and grass hay cattle feed in the Great Salt Lake basin account for less than 0.1% of Utah's gross domestic product," Ripple said. "But our potential solutions would mean lifestyle changes for as many as 20,000 farmers and ranchers in the basin." In that regard, he adds, the Great Salt Lake area exemplifies the socio-cultural changes facing many river basin communities in the West and around the world, where climate change is sending many water budgets into deficit status. "The economic and cultural adjustments required are significant but not insurmountable," said Ripple. "With the right policies and public support, we can secure a sustainable future for the Great Salt Lake and set a precedent for addressing water scarcity globally." Collaborating with Ripple on the paper was an interdisciplinary team of scientists from Northern Arizona University, Utah State University and Virginia Tech; the Utah Agricultural Experiment Station; and Sustainable Waters, a New Mexico-based nonprofit focusing on global water education. More information: Brian D. Richter et al, Reducing Irrigation of Livestock Feed is Essential to Saving Great Salt Lake, Environmental Challenges (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2024.101065 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 Plans are nearly complete for a wetlands reserve restoration that will replace trash and weeds with native plants and a public trail in a highly visible spot at the Carlsbad-Oceanside border. The vacant land along South Coast Highway is opposite the Buena Vista Audubon Society's Nature Center. The nonprofit purchased 3.5 acres of the roughly 6-acre site in 2016 for $1.55 million raised in donations, nearly a decade after a developer's proposal to build a multi-story, 82-room hotel there failed. Much of the site is covered by ice plant and invasive, non-native weeds. It's also littered with trash, much of it left by people who sometimes camp hidden in the brush. Most of the land is in Oceanside, but a fraction is in Carlsbad and owned by the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. That's because Carlsbad's boundary includes all of the more than 200-acre Buena Vista Lagoon, and the state owns the lagoon. "This is a really complicated project," said Julie Fontaine, an environmental consultant managing the project. "It's only about six acres, but there are many jurisdictions and agencies involved." Another complication is the upcoming restoration of the entire lagoon, a separate project led by the San Diego Association of Governments, a regional planning agency. The SANDAG restoration includes the removal of the weir, a low dam at the mouth of the lagoon, that raises the water level to about seven feet above sea level. The weir prevents tidal flows from the ocean and makes Buena Vista the only freshwater lagoon in the county. Final environmental documents have been approved for the overall lagoon restoration. Design and engineering plans are being completed, but so far there's no money for construction. Recent estimates place the costs between $80 million and $90 million, and obtaining the funding could take several more years. In the meantime, final plans are nearly complete for the Audubon Society's restoration of its smaller site at the edge of the lagoon. The project is tentatively set to go to the Oceanside Planning Commission for approval in January. The Audubon Society's reserve and the entire lagoon, also a reserve, are home to a long list of endangered species of native plants and animals, including the light-footed Ridgway's rail and other rare birds. The six-acre site along South Coast Highway in particular can be a buffer between the lagoon and urban development. No estimate has been released for the construction costs, and the design and engineering documents will help determine the amount needed. Fontaine said it could be anywhere from $1 million to $10 million, and the money should be available from state and federal grants. "The State Coastal Conservancy funds a lot of these projects," she said. "It's definitely a fundable project because it has so many benefits." If construction money for the Audubon restoration is obtained, grading could begin as soon as late 2026 and be completed that winter. "This project could provide an example, a template, for the larger lagoon," said David Pohl, an environmental engineer working with the Audubon Society. "We have to think well into the future." 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 Audubon Society's property ranges in elevation from lagoon level to about 30 feet above sea level. However, when the larger SANDAG project is completed it will lower the lagoon to sea level and restore tidal flows, creating more upland habitat and bringing another dramatic change to the Audubon site. Still further in the future, the restoration plan must consider sea-level rise. Nearly all scientific forecasts show the oceans rising at an increasing rate over the next century. For both the Audubon and SANDAG restorations, the basic construction plan is to grade and reshape the low-lying terrain. Afterward, the bare earth will be seeded and replanted with native species. For the overall lagoon, decades of accumulated silt and vegetation will be removed to create a deeper, wider channel to the ocean. At the Audubon site, imported fill dirt was brought in years ago to prepare for development, Fontaine said. Most of that material will be pushed to higher ground within the site, where it could help protect adjacent private property threatened by erosion. Below the fill is native sand that will be removed to create two small, finger-like channels of the lagoon onto the site. About 7,000 cubic yards of material are expected to be taken away. If clean enough, the sand could be placed on the nearby eroded beaches of South Oceanside, the project manager said. A public trail will connect viewing areas around the northern perimeter of the reserve with a proposed pedestrian walkway across South Coast Highway to the Audubon Society's nature center. Members of local indigenous groups have been eager to participate in the project and hope to maintain a connection with the land once the work is complete. "It's important for indigenous people to have a seat at the table," said Carrie Lopez, a tribal advisor for the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians. "We appreciate the formal space to gather and connect." Mel Vernon, tribal captain of the San Luis Rey Band, said the Luiseno people have lived in the region for 10,000 years. Evidence of their long-ago lives can be found in the mortars worn into rocks, where they ground acorns for their food, or in middens littered with the scattered remnants of shellfish meals. "Every day they had to eat something and they ate what was available," Vernon said. "At one time, the environment saved us, and now we have to save the environment." 2025 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The Virginia Court of Appeals on Tuesday heard arguments in a case that could set a significant transparency threshold for police departments. The case is born of a routine public records request made by a private citizen that was mostly denied by the Hanover County Sheriff Col. David Hines. The request was made by Alice Minium, who runs a police transparency and accountability website, who asked Hines for a copy of the public agencys payroll. Virginia law specifies that payrolls which offer a window of how taxpayer dollars are being spent are a public record with few privacy protections. Hines argued that a significant privacy protection does apply: namely that all of his rank-and-file deputies are eligible to work in special, undercover operations as needed by the office. Hines denied most of Miniums request, citing a part of Virginia law meant to safeguard undercover police operations. The code exempts portions of records containing information related to undercover operations or protective details that would reveal the staffing, logistics, or tactical plans of such undercover operations or protective details. On that basis, he responded to Minium with a spreadsheet where 90% of his deputies names were redacted. Minium fought back by asking a Hanover Circuit Court judge to rule that the withholding was unlawful. But that effort was unsuccessful, leading Minium to appeal the case to the Virginia Court of Appeals. Across town in Chesterfield County, both a district and a circuit court judge came to the same conclusion in an identical case where Minium had asked for a payroll from the Chesterfield Police Department. Lawyer: Undercover is an operational status Tuesdays hearing will likely resolve both those cases by setting a precedent for Virginia judges to follow. Before a three-member panel of the Court of Appeals, a lawyer for Minium, Andrew Bodoh, argued that Hanover Judge Partricia Kelly was mistaken in ruling in Hines favor. Bodoh argued that Kelly had erred, and described Hines as engaging in a side-stepping of Virginias FOIA law by choosing to describe his entire police force as undercover. Undercover is an operational status, not a fixed status that continues after the assignment ends, or arises before the assignment begins. These exemptions therefore do not cover the entire pool of people who may be assigned undercover tasks, said Bodoh. Bodoh said that Hines could not evade the clear requirements of Virginia law, which specify that any exemptions to public records requests ought to be narrowly construed. His opening argument received little pushback from the panel composed of Judge Doris Causey, Judge Junius Fulton and Presiding Judge Lisa Lorish. William Tunner, a lawyer for Hines, argued that the language of Virginia law justifies the withholding in the name of public safety. Tunner said that every member of the force was an undercover officer, and leaned heavily on the phrase related to in Virginia code as a basis for the countys position. Lorish appeared skeptical of that position. I understand your argument to be that related to opens the door wide, and means that anything that could potentially be related, said Lorish. I dont see how the phrasing permits that sort of wide interpretation, particularly given the FOIA acts reminder that we should narrowly construe exceptions. Tunner agreed that related to was broad, but emphasized that its use was intentional when written by the Virginia General Assembly. The broad language, he said, allows for the discretion of the department. Tunner was only partially finished responding to Lorish when he was interrupted by a similarly probing question from Judge Fulton, who asked how a roster could reveal any undercover operations if the undercover operations had yet to be conceived. You dont even know what the future holds, said Fulton. Doesnt that indicate that were talking about something thats current? Tunner replied that the phrase would in the state code suggests that lawmakers meant to safeguard future police special operations. Those operations would be decimated if the judges reversed the lower courts ruling, Tunner argued. If you were to take Mr. Bodohs position there could never be, there will never be, an undercover operation or protective detail in Hanover County, said Tunner. Because all of these officers are now exposed. Ruling threatens the press In rebuttal, Bodoh argued that Tunner was overblowing the impact of releasing the payroll. Disclosing the roster of all officers names does not disclose whether any particular officer is staffing undercover operations, said Bodoh. The decision must be reserved. Minium has previously said that her case is about bringing sunlight to police misconduct. Her organization, OpenOversight Va, was born in the wake of the death of George Floyd in Minnesota and nationwide protests around police brutality. It lists police officers names, sometimes including a photo, and connects them to lawsuits or internal affairs complaints made against the officer. Secrecy shrouds, if not misconduct, the ability to engage in misconduct, said Minium. Not once in the history of time has anyone behaved better when exempt from public scrutiny than without it. In the run-up to the trial, lawyers from the University of Virginia School of Law First Amendment Clinic filed a brief in support of Miniums case. The lawyers criticized Kellys initial ruling allowing the deputies names to be kept secret. The Circuit Court ignored VFOIAs plain text and undermined the principle of meaningful government transparency that animates the statute, wrote lawyers Lin Weeks, Gabriel Rottman and Tan Kalish. The lawyers wrote that Kellys ruling threatens the press and publics role in democratic oversight of law enforcement in Virginia. Canadian facing smuggling charges after airport luggage inspection Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco A Canadian man is facing charges of smuggling after being found with thousands of undeclared money. Authorities say Jerry A was arrested from the Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta after customs found the money. According to the Fiscalia General de la Republica (FGR), he has since been charged with smuggling. Jerry A was arrested in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, for his probable responsibility in the commission of the crime of smuggling, provided for and sanctioned in the Federal Tax Code, the FGR reported. During a luggage inspection, customs found two cheques, one for $68,000 CAD and another for $80,000 CAD, both undeclared. They also found 30,260 pesos in cash as well as $3,500 USD in cash, also undeclared. Jerry A was arrested early last week and presented before a judge January 3 who declared the arrest legal and issued the order to trial for the crime of smuggling. As a precautionary measure, Jerry A will be in prison for the duration of his trial at the Preventive Detention Station in Puente Grande, Jalisco. Cold front 21 arrives with rain and strong wind gusts Riviera Maya, Q.R. Heavy rain left several parts of Quintana Roo waterlogged Monday with the arrival of a cold front. Front number 21 began to approach the Yucatan Peninsula early in the day creating strong winds and heavy rain. According to State Civil Protection, Cold Front 21 is currently extended over the Yucatan Peninsula, causing partly cloudy to cloudy skies over the state of Quintana Roo. The front will continue to create showers and intervals of rain over some areas of the state. Daytime temperatures will be affected with a slight dip while nighttime air will be even cooler due to the arrival of the cold air. Coordinacion Estatal de Proteccion Civil also reported on winds with gusts of 40 to 50 km/h mainly along the states coasts. According to the National Meteorological Service (SMN), for today, cold front No. 21will extend over the Yucatan Peninsula, causing heavy rains in Tamaulipas, Campeche and Quintana Roo and showers in Nuevo Leon, Hidalgo, Puebla and Yucatan. The arctic air mass associated with the front will cause a norte event with gusts of 70 to 90 km/h in the isthmus and gulf of Tehuantepec and gusts of 30 to 50 km/h in Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo. In turn, a drop in temperature is expected in southeastern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula. Daytime temperatures for Cancun and Riviera Maya will hover around 27c (80F), while nighttime temperatures are forecast to dip to around 17C (60F). According to the current forecast by the SMN, the mass of cold air is expected to leave the Yucatan Peninsula for the weekend. Mexicana de Aviacion eliminates eight routes during New Year restructuring Mexico City, Mexico Mexican airline Mexicana de Aviacion (Compania Mexicana de Aviacion) has announced the cancellation of eight of its routes. The airline, which has been in operation for just over a year, offered flights on 18 routes throughout the country. With the recent cancellation, the airline is left with less than a dozen in operation. The state airline did not given a reason for the sudden cancellations, which were made without prior warning. On its website, Mexicana notified customers that it will stop operating routes for Acapulco, Campeche, Guadalajara, Ixtapa, Nuevo Laredo, Puerto Vallarta, Uruapan and Villahermosa. On Monday, President Claudia Sheinbaum said the reduction in routes is part of a strategic plan. They are conducting a review. Some of the planes are rented. They have to renew this lease and new planes will arrive. They are conducting a review like all companies to determine which routes had the most passengers, which ones had the least, she said. She added that the companys master plan for 2025 will be presented to her this week. Mexicana will continue to be a company of the people of Mexico. It will continue to fly and there is nothing more to it than a review of its strategic plan for 2025, she confirmed. But we have to review how many passengers flew, whether that route is necessary, whether it is better to change it, whether we have to make a stop somewhere and then go to another place, she explained. Last month, President Sheinbaum announced five new Embraer aircraft from Brazil will arrive, from a fleet of 20, for Mexicana de Aviacion in 2025 and the expansion of cargo services that will include the Tulum International Airport. New headquarters on the 2025 list for Cozumel, Puerto Morelos Riviera Maya, Q.R. The head of the Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) says new police headquarters for Cozumel and Puerto Morelos are on the list for this year. SSC head Julio Cesar Gomez Torres says the new stations will be built with resources from the Security Strengthening Trust Fund of Quintana Roo. Julio Cesar Gomez Torres On Monday, Torres said that this year, the trust has 591 million pesos that will be distributed between the 11 municipalities. One of the earmarked projects on the list for 2025 are stations for Cozumel and Puerto Morelos. That money, he said, will also be used to improve the existing station in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. The construction of a municipal police station in Cozumel will be built because the island needs to strengthen its force with people from the mainland and have the facilities to operate better. One also for Puerto Morelos. The station in Felipe Carrillo Puerto will be improved. The funds will also be used to increase the technological capacity of the municipalities, as well as the strengthening of the police academy in Solidaridad and the installation of surveillance cameras on the Chetumal Boulevard, he explained. Police arrest aggressive man reported in Puerto Aventuras Puerto Aventuras, Q.R. Solidaridad police arrested an aggressive male late Monday morning after reports he was threatening people. The incident started at a taco shop in the town of Puerto Aventuras around 5:00 a.m. He was taken down by a group of Riviera Maya hotel security guards. According to Magdalena N, the owner of the taco shop, the man arrived at her eatery around 5:00 a.m. acting aggressively. She called 9-1-1 for police to have the man removed, however, he took off on foot. He was chased by locals toward the federal highway and eventually ended up being subdued by a group of security workers at the entrance to a hotel. There, a hotel manager appeared as did police. Taken into custody was a 28 year old man from Chihuahua. There are reports he was under an influence at the time of his aggression. Local police have not commented on the Monday morning incident. Quintana Roo celebrates Three Kings Day with Rosca de Reyes and toys Riviera Maya, Q.R. Thousands around the state celebrated Three Kings Day on January 6. Heads of municipalities cut rosca de reyes bread and handed out toys to children in celebration. Governor Lezama, left, celebrated with families in Chetumal. Governor Mara Lezama celebreated in Chetumal with more than 5,000 who turned out for the free public event Monday. In Playa del Carmen, Mayor Estefania Mercado cut a kilometer long rosca de reyes on Fifth Avenue. The bread, which contained 2,500 baby jesus dolls, was cut into 7,000 pieces and distrubuted to locals attending the event. This is the longest rosca de reyes that Playa del Carmen has ever seen. It is a rosca that represents one kilometer of love, one kilometer of joy, one kilometer of prosperity that awaits us all in 2025, said Mercado during the Monday evening celebration. A kilometer-long rosca de reyes bread was cut along Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. The monumental rosca de reyes bread was made by 200 cooking students from the University of Vizcaya, whose institution Estefania Mercado thanked for its contribution. In Tulum, Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo visited several neighborhoods where he handed out gifts to children. He was accompanied by three Wise Men Melchor, Gaspar and Baltazar. The group visited more than a dozen areas around the municipality, incuding Akumal and Chemuyil, where children were presented with gifts. In Tulum, the Mayor handed out toys to children. I am happy to visit each of the colonies, greet the fathers, the mothers, but above all each one of the children, said Mayor Diego Castanon. In Puerto Morelos, Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Munoz celebrated the Day of the Three Wise Men in Fundadores Park in the Old Town. Puerto Morelos residents enjoyed a piece of the 200-meter long rosca, which was donated by Chedraui as a way of promoting healthy coexistence. We want citizens to have a moment of leisure and to continue preserving these beautiful traditions which in our country hold a meaning of family unity, friendship and harmony, because whoever finds the little doll that represents baby Jesus becomes the godfather and must invite everyone present to a party of tamales and atole on February 2, Candlemas Day, she explained. Three Kings Day celebrated in Cancun. On Sunday, the city of Cancun celebrated Three Kings Day ahead of the official day. In Cancun, thousands turned out for the traditional celebration of free bread and toys. State investigating 2,000 peso taxi fare from Cancun International to hotel zone Cancun, Q.R. The Secretary of Quintana Roo says they are looking into allegations of a traveler being charged 2,000 pesos for a taxi. Mexico City traveler Luisito C says he was charged 2,000 pesos from the Cancun International Airport to the Cancun Hotel Zone, a ride of approximately 20 minutes. The incident happened over the weekend to a national traveler arriving at Cancun International from Mexico City. At a press conference Monday, State Secretary Cristina Torres said they were looking into the allegations made by Luisito C, who referred to the Cancun taxi system as a mafia. Torres, center, says they are investigating the excessive charge. Torres explained that taxi fares at the Cancun International Airport are regulated by the federal government. However, at the next meeting with airport authorities and the Ministry of Communication, Infrastructure and Transportation (SICT), she said an investigation will be carried out so that cases like this do not happen again. SICT is the one who rules there. However, we have already taken up this complaint to bring it to the table and to continue to make this request for the regularization of taxi service in all airports in Quintana Roo clear. We do not have the authority to intervene. We will be there requesting greater transparency and greater control in the application of these rates, she said Monday. On social media, Luisito C posted I am impressed by the taxi mafia there. For a 20-minute ride, they charged me 2,000 pesos. In other destinations, that is 100 dollars. This is a mafia and they still ask you to pay in cash. This needs a lot of regulation. This is what a taxi in New York charges from the airport to Manhattan for more than an hour ride. He later added that after stealing 2,000 pesos from you, they still have the nerve to ask for a tipthey are rats! he said. Luisito C also reported that the charging system forces passengers to pay in cash but without issuing any type of receipt for the service. In August of 2023, a Canadian traveler reported being charged $1,000 USD for a taxi ride between terminals at the Cancun airport. In that instance, the government intervened. The Montreal native had his credit card refunded. The Cancun taxi driver who overcharged was arrested. Last week, Governor Mara Lezama said the state was working to address known Cancun airport transportation issues, which includes the airport rates being charged to travelers. This image illustrates the CTAO's southern hemisphere site or CTAO-South. The array is located less than 10 km southeast of the European Southern Observatory's (ESO's) existing Paranal Observatory in the Atacama Desert in Chile, which is considered one of the driest and most isolated regions on Earth a paradise for stargazers. Credit: CTAO On January 7, 2025, the European Commission established the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory (CTAO) as a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC), furthering its mission to become the world's largest and most powerful observatory for gamma-ray astronomy. The creation of the CTAO ERIC will enable the Observatory's construction to advance rapidly and provide a framework for distributing its data worldwide, significantly accelerating its progress toward scientific discovery. "The ERIC will streamline the construction and operation of the Observatory in a way that will undoubtedly help the CTAO attract new talent and investment as it continues to grow," stated Dr. Aldo Covello, Chair of the Board of Governmental Representatives (BGR). "The ERIC status provides the CTAO with the legal stability and administrative advantages it needs to be sustainable in its worldwide operations and impact." The CTAO ERIC was established with the international support of 11 countries and one intergovernmental organisation that contribute to the technological development, construction and operation of the Observatory. The BGR represents this group and has been responsible for the preparation of the ERIC. "We are grateful to our founding members for their support and to the European Commission for reaffirming their confidence in the CTAO as a world-class research infrastructure," said Dr. Stuart McMuldroch, CTAO Managing Director. "This milestone represents the culmination of years of dedicated planning by the diverse teams contributing to the success of the Observatory. With the CTAO ERIC, we now have a powerful instrument to consolidate our efforts and drive the project forward." The ERIC not only provides the Central Organisation with a formal framework to accept and operate the current telescope prototypes, but it also allows for the immediate start of construction for the full array of more than 60 telescopes across both telescope sites in Spain and Chile. On the CTAO-North site, where the Large-Sized Telescope prototype (LST-1) is under commissioning, three additional LSTs and one Medium-Sized Telescope (MST) are expected to be built in the next 1-2 years. Meanwhile, on the CTAO-South site, the first five Small-Sized Telescopes (SSTs) and two MSTs are expected to be delivered by early 2026. Thus, with the aid of the ERIC, the Observatory is expected to be able to operate intermediate array configurations as early as 2026. These sub-sets of the final arrays will already be more sensitive than any existing instrument, bringing the Observatory's early science within reach. The impact of the ERIC will extend beyond hardware, influencing several other key areas. In the coming months, the Observatory will prepare to integrate and operate advanced software designed to control the telescopes and their supporting devices on-site, as well as to manage data processing. Additionally, the ongoing recruitment campaign will continue across all CTAO facilities, including the CTAO Headquarters in Italy and the CTAO Science Data Management Centre in Germany, ensuring robust support for these developments. The CTAO was promoted to a "Landmark" on the European Forum on Research Infrastructure (ESFRI) Roadmap 2018 and was ranked as the main priority among the new ground-based infrastructures in the ASTRONET Roadmap 2022-2035. Now, after years of extensive preparatory work, and with the final legal entity in place, the CTAO solidifies its standing in the global research community, facilitating synergies with other international organisations and observatories. "The ERIC status strengthens the presence of the CTAO in Europe and its role as a key player in the European Research Area, but the support we have received and the scope of the CTAO ERIC's influence goes far beyond European borders," explained Prof. Federico Ferrini, co-Managing Director. "To build and operate the world's largest gamma-ray observatory that serves the ambitious needs of the global scientific community, we are counting on an increasing number of partners from around the world." This is an artistic rendering of the CTAO's northern hemisphere site or CTAO-North. The site already hosts a prototype of theLarge-Sized Telescope, the LST-1 (top left), but the plan is for the site to host four LSTs and nine Medium-Sized Telescopes (MSTs) to cover CTAO's low and medium energy range. The array is located on the existing site of the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias' (IAC's) Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands (Spain). At 2,200 meters altitude and nestled on a plateau below the rim of an extinct volcanic crater, the site currently hosts a variety of telescopes operating at different wavelengths, including the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG) and Gran Telescopio deCanarias (GTC), visible in the upper part of the image, as well as CTAO predecessor the Major Atmospheric Gamma-Ray Imaging Cherenkov (MAGIC) telescopes (not pictured). Credit: CTAO The CTAO ERIC Members are Austria, Czech Republic, European Southern Observatory (ESO), France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain. Additionally, Switzerland is an Observer, Japan is a Strategic Partner and Australia is a Third Party. About the CTAO The CTAO (Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory; www.ctao.org) will be the world's largest and most powerful observatory for gamma-ray astronomy. The CTAO's unparalleled accuracy and broad energy range (20 GeV- 300 TeV) will help to address some of the most perplexing questions in astrophysics, falling under three major themes: understanding the origin and role of relativistic cosmic particles; probing extreme environments, such as black holes or neutron stars; and exploring frontiers in physics, searching for dark matter or deviations from Einstein's theory of relativity. Additionally, the CTAO will play a key role in both multi-wavelength and multi-messenger fields in the coming decades thanks to its enhanced performance, which will allow it to provide fundamental gamma-ray information in the quest to probe the most extreme scenarios. To cover its broad energy range, the CTAO will use three types of telescopes: the Large-Sized Telescopes (LST), the Medium-Sized Telescopes (MST) and the Small-Sized Telescopes (SST). More than 60 telescopes will be distributed between two telescope array sites: CTAO-North in the northern hemisphere at the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias' (IAC's) Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on La Palma (Spain), and CTAO-South in the southern hemisphere at the European Southern Observatory's (ESO's) Paranal Observatory in the Atacama Desert (Chile). The Headquarters of the CTAO is hosted by the Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica (INAF) in Bologna (Italy), and the Science Data Management Centre (SDMC) is hosted by the Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY in Zeuthen (Germany). The CTAO is a Big Data project. The Observatory will generate hundreds of petabytes (PB) of data in a year (~3 PB after compression). Based on its commitment to Open Science, the CTAO will be the first gamma-ray observatory of its kind to operate as an open, proposal-driven observatory providing public access to its high-level science data and software products. The CTAO Central Organisation (legally, the CTAO ERIC) is in charge of the construction and operations of the Observatory. This group works in close cooperation with partners from around the world toward the development of the Observatory. Major partners include In-Kind Contribution Collaborations that are developing essential hardware and software, in addition to the CTAO Consortium, an international group of researchers who works in the scientific exploitation of the Observatory. About the ERIC The European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC) is a specific legal form under EU law that facilitates the establishment and operation of Research Infrastructures with a European interest. A European Commission decision is required to set up a new ERIC. The CTAO is the 29th ERIC created since 2009 and proves that the ERIC legal instrument facilitates pan-European and international scientific collaboration. The members of an ERIC are EU Member States, associated countries within the EU framework programme for research and innovation and, under certain conditions, other non-EU countries and intergovernmental organisations. Three classes of telescopes are required to cover the full CTAO energy range (20 GeV to 300 TeV): The Large- Sized Telescope(LST), the Medium-Sized Telescope (MST) and the Small-Sized Telescope(SST). While the individual telescopes may vary in size and design, all of them are composed of segmented mirrors that reflect the Cherenkov light to a high-speed camera that captures and converts it into digital data. Credit: Gabriel Perez Diaz, IAC Contact For further information and interview inquiries (both in person and online), please contact: Dr. Alba Fernandez-Barral CTAO Chief Communications Officer alba.fernandezbarral@cta-observatory.org +39-051-6357-270 (English, Spanish and Italian) More information: For further information and interview inquiries (both in person and online), please contact: Dr. Alba Fernandez-Barral CTAO Chief Communications Officer alba.fernandezbarral@cta-observatory.org +39-051-6357-270 (English, Spanish and Italian) Provided by Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory SpaceX Starship number 33 preparing for testing ahead of flight 7. Courtesy SpaceX Satellites that will join SpaceXs Starlink constellation await release into orbit from a Falcon 9 rocket in this 2019 file photo. SpaceX The exterior of the Starlink manufacturing facility, a subsidiary of SpaceX founded by Elon Musk, on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, in Bastrop, Texas. Christopher Lee / Staff Photographer SpaceXs Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy booster rocket lift off during a test flight Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, at Starbase in Boca Chica. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer SpaceX's mega rocket Starship lifts off for a test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Eric Gay/Associated Press In a first, the next SpaceX Starship set to blast off from South Texas will attempt to release 10 dummy satellites during its journey around the world but the timing of the mission remains uncertain. CEO Elon Musk said via social media last week the launch could be as soon as Friday but neither the commercial space company nor federal regulators have confirmed the timing. A Coast Guard notice issued Tuesday suggests a Saturday launch. FAA meeting canceled Citing a National Day of Mourning for President Jimmy Carter, the Federal Aviation Administration has canceled a public meeting that had been scheduled for Thursday about SpaceXs request to launch and land as many as 25 Starships and boosters a year. The other public meetings will continue as scheduled: 1-3 p.m. and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Jan. 7 at Texas Southmost College in the Jacob Brown Auditorium, 600 International Blvd. in Brownsville And virtually Jan. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Registration is required. Late last week, though, SpaceX revealed its plans for the flight, which will be the first for its updated version of Starship. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As on the previous two missions, SpaceX will attempt to land the lower-stage Super Heavy booster back at its Starbase launch tower as Starship continues on a suborbital trajectory to a splash down in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Australia. It would be the seventh test flight of the mega-rocket from the companys Starbase near Boca Chica Beach. New payload The sixth flight on Nov. 19 marked the first time the craft carried a payload a plush banana toy. The seventh will carry 10 Starlink satellite mock-ups to test the crafts ability to deliver payloads to orbit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SpaceX said theyll be similar in size and weight to next-generation Starlink satellites and set on the same suborbital trajectory as Starship. Starlink is SpaceXs satellite communications network, which provides internet access to more than 4.6 million people around the world. Theres also a military variant called Starshield and talk of expanding the network to the moon and Mars. The company has 6,895 satellites in orbit, a number that grows every few days as SpaceX sends more to space aboard Falcon 9 rockets from Florida and California. Last year, SpaceX dedicated 89 of its record 134 Falcon 9 launches to Starlink. SpaceX has said Starship will be an important part of increasing the pace of Starlink deployment. Its been developing new versions of its satellites designed to go to space aboard the new rocket. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While first-generation Starlink satellites weigh about 500 pounds and Version 2 Minis weigh about 1,760 pounds, the satellites designed for Starship are significantly larger. Full-size Version 2s weigh about 2,600 pounds and the third-generation variants are expected to weigh more than 4,400 pounds. SpaceX didnt say how much the simulators weigh. The company builds Starlink terminals at its 700,000-square-foot factory in Bastrop County. Improved Starship The upgraded Starship being used for the next mission is slightly larger than previous versions and includes redesigns of the forward flaps, propulsion system and avionics. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The vehicles forward flaps have been reduced in size and shifted towards the vehicle tip and away from the heat shield, significantly reducing their exposure to reentry heating while simplifying the underlying mechanisms and protective tiling, SpaceX said. The new craft will be able to carry 25% more fuel and has improved feedlines and control systems the company says will add additional vehicle performance and the ability to fly longer missions. Redesigned avionics include a more powerful flight computer as well as updated antennas, navigation sensors and power system. Using Starlink, the craft will be able stream telemetry data and real-time video from more than 30 cameras mounted throughout the ship. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After separation from the upper stage, the lower-stage booster will attempt to return to Starbase to land at its launch tower. The company achieved the feat during the fifth flight of Starship on Oct. 13 but was unable to repeat it on the sixth flight in November. That booster diverted to a water landing in the Gulf of Mexico. The upper-stage Starship will continue eastward on its trajectory across the Gulf of Mexico to the Indian Ocean. In addition to releasing the satellite mock-ups, it will attempt to relight a single Raptor engine while in space. The test flight also will have experiments to help prepare the Starship for a future landing catch attempt. The craft has non-structural versions of ship catch fittings to test their thermal performance, along with a smoothed and tapered edge of the tile line to address hot spots observed during reentry on Starships sixth flight test, the company said. Its also removing a significant number of tiles to stress-test vulnerable areas across the vehicle. Multiple metallic tile options, including one with active cooling, will test alternative materials for protecting Starship during reentry, SpaceX said. Despite Musks social media pronouncement and the Federal Aviation Administration issuing a license for the flight, on one other key indicator of an impending launch had come by Tuesday: The U.S. Coast Guard issued its notice to Mariners for a possible 7 a.m. Saturday launch with backup windows in following days. Sabin 33 #10 - Will utility-scale solar farms destroy the value of nearby homes? Posted on 7 January 2025 by BaerbelW On November 1, 2024 we announced the publication of 33 rebuttals based on the report "Rebutting 33 False Claims About Solar, Wind, and Electric Vehicles" written by Matthew Eisenson, Jacob Elkin, Andy Fitch, Matthew Ard, Kaya Sittinger & Samuel Lavine and published by the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School in 2024. Below is the blog post version of rebuttal #10 based on Sabin's report. Data across multiple studies show that utility-scale solar projects do not have major impacts on the values of surrounding properties1. Rather, the installation of a solar farm typically has only a minor impact on the value of homes closest to it. The most comprehensive study to date, which examined over 1.8 million home transactions near 1,500 large-scale photovoltaic projects across six states, found relatively minor impacts on property values (Elmallah et al. 2023). Homes located within 0.5 miles of solar farms were found to experience price reductions of 1.5%, compared to properties 24 miles away. Homes located more than 1 mile from a solar farm were found to experience no statistically significant effect on its price. Similarly, a 2020 study examining 400,000 transactions around 208 utility-scale solar installations in Massachusetts and Rhode Island found a 1.7% decrease in property value for homes located within 1 mile of a project2. These declines were concentrated in suburban areas, where there is more competition for space. In rural communities there was no impact on property values. Other studies have also found that utility-scale solar farms have a greater impact on property values in areas with higher residential population density3. Yet other studies have found that solar panels can have a neutral or even a positive impact on home values. A 2018 study of solar farms in Indiana and Illinois found no consistent negative impact to the value of adjacent properties that could be attributed to proximity to the adjacent solar farm4. Instead, the researchers discovered that properties within 1,320 feet of solar farms sold by an average of 1.92% more than comparable properties that were not located near any solar farms. Another 2018 study examined 956 U.S. solar projects installed before 2016 and found a majority of these projects had a neutral impact on property values. By contrast, a separate study found that the presence of a fossil fuel fired power plant within 2 miles of ones home decreased its value by 47%, with the largest decreases within 1 mile and for high-capacity plants (Davis 2011). In that study, 92% of the power plants surveyed were fueled by natural gas. Footnotes: [1] Richard Kirkland, Grand Solar Impact Study, Kirkland Appraisals, (Feb. 25, 2016); Solar and Property Value, Solar Energy Industries Association (Jul. 2019) [2] Vasundhara Gaur et al., Property Value Impacts of Commercial-Scale Solar Energy In Massachusetts And Rhode Island, Dept. Envt. and Nat. Res. Econ. U. R.I., 4 (2020) [3] Leila Al-Hamoodah et al., An Exploration of Property-Value Impacts Near Utility-Scale Solar Installations, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (May 2018) [4] Patricia McGarr & Andrew Lines, Property Value Impact Study: Proposed Solar Farm, McLean County, IL, at 17, (Aug. 7, 2018) Skeptical Science sincerely appreciates Sabin Center's generosity in collaborating with us to make this information available as widely as possible. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. One thing was clear from watching Sunday nights Golden Globes: The FCC has loosened its rules about broadcasting pornography. About halfway through the evening, Kerry Washington and Andrew Garfield appeared onstage at the Beverly Hilton Hotel to present the awards for Best Female and Male Actors in a Musical/Comedy Motion Picture to Demi Moore and Sebastian Stan, respectively. But as Washington began reading the pairs scripted introduction, Garfield, standing beside her, initiated what can only be described as a silent soft-core performance in which he quietly made love to the camera and to those of us watching at homeor maybe just to me? Dressed in a dark green ensemble that accentuated his spray-tanned olive skin, Garfield bit his lip and squinted his eyes in a smoldering stare. He theatrically donned a pair of glasses that magically made him even hotter, like some sort of reverse Clark Kent. At one point, he even adjusted the front placket of his shiny satin shirt so that it revealed more of his chest and the gold necklace with a green pendant that had the good fortune of adorning it. It was only during my third or fourth rewatch of the moment that the steam from my ears began to settle and I was finally able to hear what Washington was actually saying. A great performance has the power to transport us, she offered, right as Garfield lifted his spectacles and made sure his suit jacket was wide open. When an actor falls so deeply into character that we as an audience get lost in their portrayal, the result is magic. We become spellboundunable to take our eyes off them. Amen, girl. Amen. I know I wasnt the only one who felt compelled to take a pregnancy test after Garfield was done with his set. Millions of people watched a clip I shared in a moment of deep horniness of the moment on X, which prompted a slew of replies that were somehow hornier than my original post. Garfield and his slutty glasses were soon the subject of articles on BuzzFeed, InStyle, and People. Why is Andrew looking at me like that? read the top comment on the video from the official Golden Globes YouTube account. The chemistry me and Andrew have is willdddddddd, read another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement my landlord just charged me a pet fee the way i was barking at my phone pic.twitter.com/Bm4KCBxVok (@hescutelatino) January 6, 2025 Advertisement no lookalike contest ANDREW GARFIELD COME TO MY BED RNNNNN pic.twitter.com/kwXJD9dI62 sami (@aztrsoid) January 6, 2025 He can't keep doing this pic.twitter.com/SU8YuhZAmM Erik Anderson (@awards_watch) January 6, 2025 Advertisement Advertisement When many of us first met Garfield, in 2010s The Social Network and Never Let Me Go, he was a lanky, clean-cut actor playing mostly quiet and sensitive souls. His subsequent turn as Peter Parker/Spider-Man was largely charming, as was the boyfriend energy he displayed with his multiyear coupling with co-star Emma Stone. He always had the air of a guy you could take home to meet your mom: cute, dependable, safe. But in the past few years, something has shifted. According to many people online, Garfield has entered what can only be described as his fuckboy era. This is a loose term, and one thats arguably evolved over time to shed some of its most negative connotations. Today fuckboys are best understood as lothariosat least, thats the definition used in the 2021 reality competition FBoy Island (hosted, in a nice twist of fate, by Sundays Globes emcee, Nikki Glaser). And while Im not saying Garfield is some sort of ruthless seducer or avowed heartbreaker, he is definitely exuding a more confident sexual aura lately (perhaps because of work he may or may not have had done on his hairline). Hes scruffier. Hes buffer. Hes cockier. He wears a chain necklace, the international symbol of Guys Who Fuck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consider the very public, yearslong flirtation between Garfield and Amelia Dimoldenberg, a dynamic that culminated in an October appearance on her show Chicken Shop Date wherein you could cut the sexual tension with a knife. Or theres the increasing number of shirtless photo shoots hes done in recent years. In 2022, for example, he went shirtless for GQ, lying in a sand dune, clad only in a pair of $3,500 Alexander McQueen leather pants and staring up at the camera. In other shots for the magazine, he contorted himself to best show off his newly muscular physique. And just this week, Garfield was shirtless once more for W magazine, quite literally slipping off his robe and flexing for the camera. Advertisement Lets not kid ourselvestheres an obvious double standard here. Younger female stars are expected to embrace their sex appeal right from the start, and we generally dont grant them the grace of lanky and awkward years that Garfield was afforded. Theyre also expected to walk a tightrope, never veering too far into vanity, lest they come across as bitches or, worse, sluts. In 2012 Angelina Jolie appeared onstage at the Oscars to present an award and struck a pose in which she thrust her leg out from her Versace gown. The sultry moment went viral, not because of public thirst but because of public mockery. Look at meeee!! read a tweet from @AngiesRightLeg, a Twitter account that quickly sprang up and attracted thousands of followers. You have to admit Im one hell of a leg. When he accepted the Academy Award from Jolie, the Descendants co-screenwriter Jim Rash even imitated her stance, drawing laughs from the crowd in response to what he later termed a loving tribute. Advertisement Advertisement It was ultimately somewhat ironic on Sunday, then, that after Garfields little show of seduction, he and Washington presented a Golden Globe to Moore for her work in The Substance. In a moving acceptance speech, Moore described a career of being pigeonholed as a pretty popcorn actress that had ultimately been transformed thanks to her now award-winning role of an aging woman consumed by vanity. Theres been a lot of talk about comebacksPamela Anderson, Demi Moore, host Glaser quipped. If youre a woman over 50 in a lead role, they call it a comeback. If youre a guy over 50 in a lead role, congratulations: Youre about to play Sydney Sweeneys boyfriend. Dont be mistakenIm not suggesting that Garfields recent shift means hes become shallow. His appearance on The Colbert Report a few years back, during which he discussed grieving his mother, who died in 2019, was extremely poignant and profound. Likewise, the tears he shed this year while reading a Modern Love essay for the New York Times appeared similarly deeply felt and prompted a spontaneous-yet-transcendent musing from him on the meaning of life and art. For my money, he was also robbed of an Oscar for his sensitive and magical work in the 2021 musical Tick, Tick Boom! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what is clear is that as he ages, the actor has learned to finally weaponize his good looks and sex appeal in a way we expect of our biggest Hollywood stars, by embracing the art of public seduction. Indeed, other hunks have burst onto the scene without apparently seeing any dichotomy between looks and talent. Look at how Glen Powell exploded in the industry last year, with instant confidence in his appearance via shirtless photo shoots, wet T-shirts, and selfies for which he wore only a towel. Or how Jonathan Bailey, another new but clearly self-assured megastar, leveraged two sexually charged performances in Bridgerton and Fellow Travelers into a series of equally sexy shirtless spreads and red-carpet appearances. Both these men have used their looks to keep our focus on them from the jump of their stardom, while Garfield has taken an almost tediously long time to get to the same place. He didnt start out a pinup star, but hes certainly becoming one. In a reverse of what Moore noted in her speech, its one thing to be considered an Actor with a capital A in Hollywood; its entirely another to be a heartthrob. With two Oscar nominations under his belt, Garfield has already proved hes the former. Now it appears hes not only comfortable with but adamant and shameless about putting in the work to become the latter. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. This time on Jan. 6, Capitol workers shoveled a thin blanket of snow outside a quiet building. Members of Congress entered the building without event. There was heavy security, but only a lone protester: a man who held a sign that read Fuck Donald Trump. Notably, nobody was trying to hang Mike Pence. That single protester is an eerie contrast to what I watched unfold inside and outside the building four years ago. I had been to Trumps defiant speech that day and followed as ostensible protesters stormed the building with congresspeople still inside. I followed and watched as euphoric rioters smashed windows and furniture, looted what they wanted, and smoked weed with their feet kicked up on tables. It was a mix of supporters from every corner of the country, all unified in their intention to stop the certification of Joe Bidens 2020 election win, among other sinister aims. In a statement Monday, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the rioters a terrorist mob who left behind broken statues, bloodied police officers, and hallways smeared in debris.* Despite the attempts to whitewash what happenedeffectively, it seems, for many voters across the countryno one who saw it for themselves will ever forget it. This Jan. 6, the iconic white domed building was fortified by 6-foot-tall fencing that has since surrounded it, the most visible remaining scar from that day. Inside, there was no commotion, no audible dissent, no dramatic walkouts. Members of Congress filed in for a joint session, exchanged pleasantries, and settled into their roles. Vice President Kamala Harris entered the chamber and, joined by House Speaker Mike Johnson, presided over the certification of Donald Trumps election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a scene meant to project stability and unity, yet it felt almost theatrical in the way everyone acted out their roles. At the start, I thought I noticed a flicker of a tremor in Harris voice, though its possible I couldnt help but project onto her the weight of the moment, passing control of the country to someone she once described as a fascist and likened to the criminals she once prosecuted in her role as Californias attorney general. As she spoke, cameras captured J.D. Vance looking on in the chamber. Advertisement I wondered how the people I documented rioting in this very building four years ago might feel. Roughly 1,500 rioters were charged, the majority of whom have pleaded guilty or been convicted. Hundreds of them have been sentenced to prison. I wondered how many of them would see this as the peaceful transfer of power its supposed to be, a rebuke of sorts, and how many would believe that this moment was simply an affirmation of their protest. Trump has called the people convicted as part of the violent mob political prisoners, victim to a very nasty system. He has vowed to pardon some of the rioters on his first day back in officea move that Sen. Chuck Schumer called wrong, reckless, and an insult to the memory of those who died that day. I realized I knew the answer: Most of the people I watched trample the Capitol must think theyve been vindicated, within their rights to flip the table when they didnt get their way, destined to be remembered as heroic by history. By the end of the nearly 30-minute session, Harris demeanor was hard to read. She called out the totals: 312 electoral votes for Trump, and her own 226. The Republicans in Congress cheered Trumps win, while Democrats remained silent. I found something unsettling in their quiet acquiescence: It seemed less a demonstration of higher principles than an act of submission. The political party that had helped stage and enable an insurrection didnt learn any lessons; the one that didnt had no real response left in the chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps thats just how it had to be. But as Harris dissolved the joint session and shook Johnsons hand, the image of the lone protester outside lingered in my mind. In that moment, the tiny show of defiance seemed like all we had to show for this countrys willingness to resist a man that tried to seize the presidency by force. When Trump lost, he refused to accept the outcome. On Monday, Republicans in Congress applauded his return to power. When I left the Capitol grounds four years ago, I never imagined that Trump could be welcomed back in that way. But its clear that half the country wants him there and believes that the system can still work. The next four years will put that to the test. Trump has already made comments about how his supporters will never need to vote again. Time will tell how far hell take that. Mondays calm may be remembered as a brief reprieve before four years of chaos, or it may be remembered as the day America stood by, refusing to see what its new president has promised. Neither outcome seems just. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Every few years, Americans across the country are beleaguered with a Herculean task usually reserved for the sainted: They must think about Canada. On Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepped down as the country and party leader, marking the end of a decade in power. (Thats a long time, but its still short of his dads 15 cumulative years in office.) Normally, America gets to operate globally with main-character syndrome. But not this time! Victor Garber saw himself in the reflection of an ice-covered lake in southern Ontario, which means six more weeks of winter and a not-actually-that-surprising election thatll change the course of the country. Lets unpack what all of this actually means, and whether it matters to you, an American. All right, Ill bite: Whos Justin Trudeau? Hes the prime minister. Of Canada. Which is where all your wood comes from. We also gave you Keanu. We hope youre happy. So what happened to him? This week, Trudeau announced that he would be stepping down as prime minister and as leader of the Liberal Party as soon as it picks his replacement. Parliament is now prorogued (suspended), as we Canadians like to say, until March 24. The current government will remain in power, but the work of Parliament is now screeching to a halt. This is different from merely dissolving Parliament, an act that would trigger an immediate election. Doing it this way means the Liberals have more time to actually run a leadership race to find Trudeaus replacement. Perhaps theyve learned a little something from watching American Democrats this past summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prorogation is sometimes a controversial move made by prime ministers to avoid facing consequences: the Conservative Stephen Harper government used it to kill an inquiry on the treatment of Afghan detainees, and the Liberal Jean Chretien government used it to sidestep a report on the 2002 sponsorship scandal. Well, is it a controversial move this time? Why did Justin quit, anyway? Advertisement The funny thing about parliamentary politics is that it provides an avenue for all your colleagues to loudly and declaratively announce that they no longer believe in you. Imagine going to work and everyones just yelling, NO ONE THINKS YOU CAN DO THIS ANYMORE. Thats essentially what happened to Trudeau in December, when his finance minister and deputy prime minister quit. Chrystia Freeland, a longtime Trudeau ally, put the blame squarely on him, saying she was at odds with his economic policy. Trudeau lost several Cabinet ministers following Freelands resignation, and the leader of the leftist New Democratic Party also announced that it would be joining in a nonconfidence vote. Even Trudeaus allies dont think he has the juice. By that point, Trudeaus options were limited: Either he could run it out and have Parliament dissolve under him because he had no support, or he could quit and give his party a fighting chance in the next federal election. Consider his quitting the more graceful option. He seemed popular from afar. Was he? Advertisement Well, I guess that depends on if youre asking my motherwho, after Trudeau resigned, texted me, I wont see my boyfriend on TV anymoreor anyone else in the country. (Please keep my moms horniness in your prayers at this time.) Advertisement Recent polling otherwise suggests that people didnt like him much. After sweeping the Liberals to victory in 2015, he saw his approval ratings get worse and worse, eventually landing at around 23 percent, just 1 point above the prime ministerial record low. Advertisement Hes been suffering from what liberal and centrist politicians across the world are suffering from: their own rigidity. The issue, ultimately, is that Trudeau just didnt give anyone what they wanted. The Liberal Party didnt offer Canadians a good enough plan for the future, especially as the cost of living becomes more and more untenable for people all over the country. Like a lot of centrist-democratic parties around the world (perhaps you know of one in America that recently lost an election?), the Liberals have failed to offer Canadians a vision of the future progressive enough for leftists or evil enough for hardcore conservatives. Most Canadians agreed with the Trudeau government on social issues, but most Canadians also want to comfortably buy a bag of frozen corn without getting boned by Galen Weston. Advertisement Advertisement The real question is: What will all the people who make Fuck Trudeau bumper stickers do with all their free time now? Advertisement I know Justin Trudeau mostly as the hot prime minister. Is he still hot? Yes, if you like a white man with a Haida tattoo on his shoulder, hes still hot. Something for you and your therapist to unpack, very far away from me. So when is the election? It has to be before October, though itll probably be long before that. For now, the Liberals need to find a new leader, and trust me when I say the field is full of duds and bores. Just wait until you find out about the charisma black hole that is Mark Joseph Carney. Rest assured, though, campaigning will be comparatively and blessedly brief: The average length of a Canadian election cycle is a mere 50 days. Much like a colonic, this will be over before you know it, and youll feel clean and empty and unsure of what happened while you were asleep. Who will you be casting your absentee ballot for, Scaachi? Advertisement The options are pretty uninspired. At the moment, theres Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the leftist NDP, but thats another party that continues to disappoint progressives. Its also not a big contender these days; the NDP is still polling just behind the Liberals. Advertisement Advertisement The faction surging ahead is the Conservative Party, led since 2022 by Pierre Poilievre, a politician who looks like if Toad became an incel because Princess Peach didnt put out after he helped save her from Bowsers Castle. Poilievre wants to transform Canada into the blockchain capital of the world, defund the CBC, cut personal income tax, fan the flames of immigration anxiety, and chitchat with Jordan Peterson about racism. Last year, he was formally told to shut up in the House of Commons after he suggested that the foreign affairs minister was pander[ing] to Hamas because she insufficiently supported Israel. Barring some major catastrophe for the Conservatives AND an incoming Liberal leader who somehow has name recognition and a plan for a party thats been slowly eroding over the past decade, the current mood is that the Conservatives will win the election with Poilievre as prime minister. Im personally not thrilled about having to share the title of Most Famously Odious Person From Calgary, but if he wins the election, I guess we can take turns wearing the tiara. I heard Justin got divorced recently. What kind of divorced guy is he going to be when he isnt distracted by his little hobby of running the country? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would steer clear of Ottawas dimly lit date-night restaurants for at least 18 months. What does this mean for me, a person who does not know where Medicine Hat is? Honestly, it might mean something to you! Trump has been ranting about his nonsensical plan to impose a 25 percent tariff on Canada, a move that would violate the terms of the USMCA. Itll also affect Americans, since 65 percent of the countrys crude oil comes from Canada. Advertisement Related From Slate How to Deal With the Worst-Case Scenario Read More What should I do with this information? Depending on who becomes prime minister, theyll be tasked with trying to get Trump to see a modicum of reason. Or maybe theyll flop right over and let him go forth with his plan to turn their country into the 51st state. That, Im sure, will worktheres nothing a Canadian loves more than being mistaken for an American. Try it. Go to any bar in the shittiest part of Edmonton and try it. The ensuing hospital visit will at least be free. I trust that youll find a way to forget it immediately, as is your birthright. Im a Canadian who read this and have a specific, particular, and unnecessary quibble with your explainer. How can I contact you to argue about how well I know Canada, as is my birthright? Sorry. Ive lived stateside for six years, so Ive adopted most Americanisms, namely a penchant for being right even if Im not. See you on Family Day! Ill bring the Clamato. Here we are, the start of another year. And as the calendar is born anew, so too do we offer ourselves a chance at rebirth, to turn the page on bad habits and worst selves without prejudice and to start clean on a higher plane of existence. These New Years Resolutions are the opportunity to give flesh to ideas and to become. For me, Im going into 2025 with a softness of spirit. This year Im going to be a gentler human to those whom my kindness has been found to be wanting. Take Starbucks for example. I spent 2024 talking about their various anti-union activities, the harmful labor practices found used to produce coffee they sell as ethical, that whole poopy Oleato debacle and its Schultzean imbroglio, and their supercommuting new CEO. Did all these things happen? Sure, but what did they do to me specifically? Im not one of the thousands upon thousands of people negatively impacted by any of these decisions. Thats why 2025 is going to be the year that I give a kinder version of myself over to Starbucks and open-mindedly consider their various corporate machinations wait they did what now? Uh huh ok and its how many ounces?!? Starting Friday, January 3rd, Starbucks rolled out the new additions to their drinks menu for 2025, and it includes an absolutely massive cortado. Their version of the cortado contains three ristretto shots of lighter roasted Blonde Espresso to be combined with steamed milk until it reaches a whopping eight ounces. Why?! Why are they like this? After running roughshod over the macchiato, wreaking havoc on every barista the world over who now has to clarify which macchiato a customer wants (the espresso with a dollop or the Big Gulp caramel bomb?) Starbucks is now ramping up their assault on barista interaction and flanking them at cortado. This is linguistic dereliction. Starbucks is playing god and this is some Tower of Babel-type bullshit. Related: What is A Cortado? And what other early-2010s-era specialty coffee menu items will they co-opt and Vitamix the language of? Are they going to start serving Gibraltars? 12 ounces only and served over ice. Will there be a Kyoto drip? A rebranded naming of their batch brew. How about a washed single origin Panama Green tip Gesha? A blend of Arabica and Robusta coffees from Vietnam, Brazil, and Colombia. The dream of the 2010s are alive at Starbucks. And why not? Words have no meaning. Howard Schultz (falsely) says he introduced the latte to America, but why stop there. Howard Schultz invented the latte. Starbucks has gone post-truth and is dragging the rest of us hell with it. Its all just too much. Put a cortado on your menu, fine, but actually make it a cortado. Or put an eight-ounce espresso and milk drink on there and come up a new name for it (though latte would work just fine). A pianissimo maybe or even an octado. It could literally be anything, save for the five or 10 words already used to connote a very specific espresso beverage. Welp, we had a good run. I made it all the way to January 7th with my resolution to not mock Starbucks. 2026 will be different, I can feel it. Zac Cadwalader is the managing editor at Sprudge Media Network and a staff writer based in Dallas. Read more Zac Cadwalader on Sprudge. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/houthis-claim-missile-drone-attack-on-us-aircraft-carrier-preparing-to-attack-yemen-1121371655.html Houthis Claim Missile, Drone Attack on US Aircraft Carrier Preparing to Attack Yemen Houthis Claim Missile, Drone Attack on US Aircraft Carrier Preparing to Attack Yemen Sputnik International Yemeni movement Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, said on Monday that it had carried out an attack on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman as it was preparing for a "major air attack " on Yemen. 2025-01-06T19:15+0000 2025-01-06T19:15+0000 2025-01-07T03:26+0000 world middle east yemen houthi houthis uss harry s. truman sanaa israel https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/13/1119432324_0:0:869:489_1920x0_80_0_0_1f97b33c360fa8e790f2198296e15d9d.jpg "The missile and UAVs forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a specific and joint military operation targeting the American aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman using two winged missiles and four drones North of the Red Sea, while the American enemy was preparing to launch a major air attack against our country, and the operation led to the failure of the attack," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saria said in a statement.Direct conflict between Israel and the Houthis has intensified last month. After a series of rocket and drone attacks launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, Israel conducted strikes on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and the Hudaydah province on December 19, which resulted in civilian casualties. On December 26, in response to additional attacks by the Houthis Israel launched a strike on the Sanaa International Airport. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was inside the airport at the time. He was unharmed but one crew member of the UN delegation got injured. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250105/houthis-claim-1st-attack-on-power-plant-in-northern-israel-1121360316.html yemen sanaa 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 houthi strikes, houthis vs us carriers, us war on houthis, uss harry truman news, us war on yemen A bullet casing flies out of Aristotle Atatas pistol during a license-to-carry class in Lockhart. Joe Timmerman/Texas Tribune A San Antonio landowner recently sued the San Antonio Target, Hunting and Fishing Club, top left, alleging the club operates like a drinking fraternity that prioritizes its members gunplay over the rights of its neighboring property owners to live and operate free from serious injury or death. SA Given to Fly LP, which owns land next to the club, says the gun range activities pose significant risk of harm to the partnerships visitors. Courtesy Google Earth, 2023 A San Antonio landowner recently sued the San Antonio Target, Hunting and Fishing Club, pictured center, alleging the club operates like a drinking fraternity that prioritizes its members gunplay over the rights of its neighboring property owners to live and operate free from serious injury or death. SA Given to Fly LP, which owns land next to the club, says the gun range activities pose significant risk of harm to the partnerships visitors. The Leon Greenway can be seen running from bottom center to top right. Courtesy Google Earth, 2023 A San Antonio landowner recently sued the San Antonio Target, Hunting and Fishing Club, pictured center, alleging the club operates like a drinking fraternity that prioritizes its members gunplay over the rights of its neighboring property owners to live and operate free from serious injury or death. SA Given to Fly LP, which owns land next to the club, says the gun range activities pose significant risk of harm to the partnerships visitors. Courtesy Google Earth, 2023 A judge has temporarily banned shooting at the San Antonio Target, Hunting and Fishing Club on the Northwest Side after an adjacent landowner alleged in a lawsuit it and neighboring residents are at significant risk of harm due to the clubs reckless operations. The neighboring landowner, a limited partnership, obtained a temporary restraining order against the club at 6722 W. Hausman Road after accusing club members of firing live ammunition into a space with no safety measures in place. SA Given to Fly LP, the partnership that owns more than 35 acres next to the club, alleges it operates like a drinking fraternity that prioritizes its members gunplay over the rights of its neighboring property owners to live and operate free from serious injury or death. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The club denied the allegations in a Dec. 27 answer to the lawsuit and said SA Given to Fly was contributory negligent in causing their damages or injuries. In a statement, Mark Anthony Sanchez Sr., an attorney for the the club, said it has at all times operated in a responsible and safe manner, ensuring the safety of all its members, neighbors and surrounding community. Boerne lawyer Joshua Sisam, who represents the neighboring partnership, said rifle bullets, bird shot and buckshot have been found on its property. The partnerships principals tried to work out an arrangement with the club but were unsuccessful, he added. Our goal is to be good neighbors, but we shouldnt have worry about getting shot on our own property, Sisam said. We shouldnt have to duck and cover on our own property. The club has not provided any assurance to SA Given to Fly that a qualified Range Safety Officer will be on duty at all times the club is open or that it will follow National Rifle Association guidelines for shooting ranges, the lawsuit alleges. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The two sides will be back in court Monday for a hearing on a temporary injunction. If SA Given to Fly prevails, the club would be prohibited from allowing any shooting on its property until the case is resolved. Visiting state District Judge Elma Salinas Ender in San Antonio granted the temporary restraining order on Dec. 17. Development nixed In a court affidavit in another case, club member Roberto B. Vasquez said the San Antonio Target, Hunting and Fishing Club operates a sport shooting range on the property where members and their guests discharge firearms for trap, target, and other recreational shooting. More than 20 individuals discharge firearms at the range each year, he added. The club acquired its 26-acre property nearly 70 years ago, Bexar County land records show. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SA Given to Fly purchased the land next to the club in 2022, said Blake Yantis, an owner and partner. The partnership took its name from a song by his favorite band, Pearl Jam. Yantis and his father, Thomas Yantis, also are principals of development service and project management firm Mosaic Land Development. The partnership had the property under contract to sell to a builder for single-family lots, but the issue with the gun range nixed the deal, Blake Yantis said. The Bexar Appraisal Districts website describes the land as Wildlife Mgmt but says its zoned for multifamily. SA Given to Fly is suing for various claims including trespass, interfering with the use and enjoyment of its land and abnormally dangerous conduct. Its seeking unspecified damages, including compensatory and punitive. The club recently prevailed in getting another lawsuit against it dismissed. The club was sued by a Guadalupe County man who alleged he was riding his bicycle on the Leon Creek Greenway, which borders the club, on Aug. 27, 2022, when his helmet was struck by a bullet or buckshot causing him to fall. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jose Ordonez, who filed the suit on the second anniversary of the incident, amended the complaint last month to include club member David Hegedusich, who is accused of firing the projectile. The original complaint referred to the alleged shooter as John Doe. Hegedusich has yet to file an answer to the lawsuit. Suit dismissed Ordonez sued the club and Hegedusich for gross negligence, seeking at least $250,000 but not more than $1 million in relief. On Tuesday, however, state District Judge Christine Hortick granted the clubs motion to dismiss the case. Desi Martinez, a lawyer for Ordonez, said he intends to proceed with the suit against Hegedusich. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ordonez did not preserve the projectile or call emergency services, the club said in moving for the lawsuits dismissal. Instead, he remounted his bike and rode several miles back to his vehicle, and reported to an officer that he did not require any medical attention, the club said in its motion. Ordonez then retained legal counsel and on the last day of the statute of limitations period for negligence, sued. The club cited a Texas law limiting lawsuits against sport shooting ranges in seeking dismissal of Ordonezs case. The law requires a plaintiff to provide the defendant an expert report within 90 days after the filing date of the original petition. The club said it never received such a report, so the court by law should dismiss the case. Ordonez countered that the club operates a clubhouse and has a pavilion or social events, so it does not fit the definition as just a shooting range under Texas law. He also alleged he couldnt provide the expert report because the club was not forthcoming with information on the incident. In asking the court to deny the motion to dismiss, Ordonez added he learned from some club members who are Good Samaritans or just do not want anyone to be hurt by the lack of safety at the club that some club Directors had knowingly destroyed evidence regarding this incident. John Joyce, a lawyer who defended the club in Ordonezs lawsuit, didnt respond to a request for comment. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250106/one-member-of-us-lead-coalition-against-is-dies-in-during-operation-in-iraq---centcom-1121371775.html One Member of US-Lead Coalition Against IS Dies in During Operation in Iraq - CENTCOM One Member of US-Lead Coalition Against IS Dies in During Operation in Iraq - CENTCOM Sputnik International One member of the US-led coalition against the Islamic State* terror group was killed during an operation in Iraq, and two more were injured, the United States Central Command said on Monday. 2025-01-06T21:39+0000 2025-01-06T21:39+0000 2025-01-07T03:42+0000 world middle east iraq us central command (centcom) syria terrorist state us-led coalition isis islamic state https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/03/1115956581_0:4:3072:1732_1920x0_80_0_0_be19accb33433d1a8a2f82c9ba467fc2.jpg "From December 30 to January 6, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations. The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well as US citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond. During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged Coalition forces on several occasions... One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different nations. There were no injuries to US personnel or damage to US equipment," CENTCOM said on X. Meanwhile, the US-backed and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), with the help from CENTCOM, conducted an operation against the IS in Syria. The US-led Global Coalition to Defeat the ISIS is one of many coalitions formed to defeat the terrorist group both on the battlefield and financially by cutting off its funding and resources. The Kurdish SDF formations, supported by US forces in northeastern Syria, announced the creation of their own autonomous administration in the territories under their control in the provinces of Aleppo, Al-Hasakah, Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor after the start of the Syrian crisis in 2011. They are supported by the armed forces of the US-led international coalition present in northeastern Syria under the pretext of fighting the IS.* Terrorist group outlawed in Russia. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250102/qasem-soleimani-holy-warrior-against-us-imperialism-zionism-and-takfiri-terrorism-1121334897.html iraq 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 us-led coalition in the middle east, us fight against isis, centcom news, coalition in iraq, isis in iraq https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/chinese-authorities-allocate-136mln-for-68-magnitude-earthquake-recovery-in-tibet-1121373350.html Chinese Authorities Allocate $13.6Mln for 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Recovery in Tibet Chinese Authorities Allocate $13.6Mln for 6.8 Magnitude Earthquake Recovery in Tibet Sputnik International The Chinese government allocated 100 million yuan ($13.6 million) from the national budget to support recovery efforts in the Tibet Autonomous Region following a deadly 6.8-magnitude earthquake, the National Development and Reform Commission of China said on Tuesday. 2025-01-07T10:10+0000 2025-01-07T10:10+0000 2025-01-07T10:10+0000 asia china tibet mount everest earthquake https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/07/1121373449_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_b7eb60842c4e6ffec96675ed3a03102c.jpg The earthquake struck on Tuesday at 9:05 a.m. local time (01:05 GMT) in Dingri, a rural Chinese county close to Mount Everest. The latest toll of casualties reported by Chinese state media was 95 people killed and 130 injured. The funds will primarily be used to rebuild and repair damaged roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure and public facilities in the disaster-stricken areas, the statement read. Meanwhile, the local bureau of culture and tourism in Dingri announced that the scenic park on the Chinese side of Mount Everest would be temporarily closed to visitors starting from 10 a.m. local time on Tuesday. Part of the Himalayan mountain range, Mount Everest is the world's highest. It is located on the border between China and Nepal. In 2024, more than 13,700 international travelers visited the Chinese side of Mount Everest. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240817/magnitude-70-earthquake-strikes-off-coast-of-russias-kamchatka-peninsula---ras-1119806778.html china tibet mount everest 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 china eathquake, earthquake tibet, earthquake chinese province, post-quake recovery in china, chinese magnitude 6.8 earthquake https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/eu-commission-cancels-gas-meeting-due-to-absence-of-ukrainian-officials---slovak-govt-1121371926.html EU Commission Cancels Gas Meeting Due to Absence of Ukrainian Officials - Slovak Govt EU Commission Cancels Gas Meeting Due to Absence of Ukrainian Officials - Slovak Govt Sputnik International The European Commission has canceled talks on gas transit through Ukraine, which were scheduled for January 7, due to the decision of the Ukrainian delegation not to participate in the event, the Slovak government said. 2025-01-07T02:49+0000 2025-01-07T02:49+0000 2025-01-07T03:49+0000 world europe european commission slovakia robert fico ukraine russia gazprom gas transit https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/19/1119128163_0:159:3077:1889_1920x0_80_0_0_8631286de9d3e7ee2af2e7d5735712f5.jpg Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said earlier that consultations on the issue of the halted gas transit through Ukraine to Slovakia were to take place in Brussels on January 7. "Considering the fact that the Ukrainian side will not participate in tomorrow's talks, the European Commission has decided to cancel the meeting. However, the European Commission, in cooperation with interested parties, is looking for another date when the meeting could take place," the government said in a statement on Monday. On Wednesday, Russian gas transit via Ukraine stopped, with the expiry of a 2019 contract between Russia's Gazprom and Ukraine's Naftogaz. The Russian company said it had neither the legal nor the technical capacity to continue pumping gas into the pipeline that supplied Moldova and four EU countries, namely Slovakia, Austria, Italy and the Czech Republic. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250101/fears-of-new-energy-crisis-rekindled-in-europe-as-russia-ceases-gas-supply-via-ukraine-1121326804.html slovakia ukraine russia 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 russian gas transfer halt, ukraine halts gas transit, european comission talks, eu ukraine gas talks, european energy crisis, slovakia ukraine conflict https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/eu-might-activate-own-defense-provision-if-trump-follows-through-on-nato-threats--expert-1121375454.html EU Might Activate Own Defense Provision If Trump Follows Through on NATO Threats Expert EU Might Activate Own Defense Provision If Trump Follows Through on NATO Threats Expert Sputnik International The European Union may invoke its collective defense provision should US President-elect Donald Trump follow through on his promise to withdraw the United States from NATO, Stavros Kalenteridis, professor at the Aegean College in Athens, told Sputnik. 2025-01-07T12:26+0000 2025-01-07T12:26+0000 2025-01-07T12:26+0000 military european union (eu) donald trump france nato article 5 russia angela merkel emmanuel macron russia-nato showdown https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/1c/1107873964_0:320:3072:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_2adb74f2cefca3e3fe04d49a0da37e38.jpg Trumps team reportedly told European officials in December that the incoming US administration would demand that NATO members commit to spending 5% of their GDP on defense. In the past, Trump floated the ideas of the US leaving the alliance if other members do not step up their military contribution. He noted that former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was against having a collective defense clause, arguing that NATO should remain the primary defense mechanism and that invoking that clause would be unnecessary. Still, it was included in the text of the Treaty of Lisbon due to Frances insistence. Should this alternative mechanism prove workable during the upcoming Trump presidency, it could gain momentum and carry on after his administration. In the past, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his skepticism of NATO, going as far as to call it "brain-dead" and arguing in favor of European strategic autonomy. In that, he was part of a tradition that harks back to Charles de Gaulle, the founding father of the Fifth Republic. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241128/france-eyes-developing-advanced-ballistic-missile-with-over-1000-km-range-due-to-oreshnik-fears-1121030788.html france russia 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-nato showdown, us withdraw nato, trump nato, eu france military, charles de gaulle. eu treaty of lisbon https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/ex-leader-of-frances-national-front-party-jean-marie-le-pen-dies-aged-96-1121376982.html Ex-Leader of France's National Front Party Jean-Marie Le Pen Dies Aged 96 Ex-Leader of France's National Front Party Jean-Marie Le Pen Dies Aged 96 Sputnik International Jean-Marie Le Pen, the former leader of France's right-wing National Front party, has died at the age of 96, French media reported on Tuesday, citing the politician's family. 2025-01-07T12:20+0000 2025-01-07T12:20+0000 2025-01-07T18:24+0000 world europe france marine le pen national front https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101736/37/1017363759_0:260:5000:3073_1920x0_80_0_0_8030a25fc3cb243a25cbaaee7bff1891.jpg Le Pen had earlier been hospitalized due to suspected heart problems. The Elysee Palace, expressing condolences on the passing of Le Pen, said that history would judge his role in the country's life. The communique also expressed condolences to Le Pen's family and loved ones. According to media reports, he passed away surrounded by his family at a medical facility in Garches, near Paris. He had been hospitalized there for several weeks. Known for his right-wing views, Le Pen ran for president five times. In 2011, he handed over the party's leadership to his daughter Marine Le Pen and was expelled from the party in 2015. In 2018, the National Front was renamed the National Rally. Although his mandate as a member of the European Parliament expired in 2019, Le Pen frequently appeared in the media, commenting on current events in France. https://sputnikglobe.com/20210115/frances-jean-marie-le-pen-shocked-by-treatment-of-trump-says-there-was-no-capitol-coup-attempt-1081775073.html france 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 jean-marie le pen, national frong party, france, marine le pen https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/israeli-company-says-will-supply-anti-drone-systems-to-nato-country-1121375288.html Israeli Company Says Will Supply Anti-Drone Systems to NATO Country Israeli Company Says Will Supply Anti-Drone Systems to NATO Country Sputnik International Israeli defense company Elbit Systems has said it will supply anti-drone systems to a European NATO member state for a total of $60 million. 2025-01-07T12:16+0000 2025-01-07T12:16+0000 2025-01-07T12:16+0000 military israel elbit systems romania nato drone warfare https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/0a/1116091123_0:221:3072:1949_1920x0_80_0_0_66591609d9494d2fc0b594523138e3ee.jpg "Elbit Systems Ltd. has been awarded a contract worth approximately $60 million to supply its multi-layered Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) to a NATO European country. The contract will be performed over a period of 3 years," the company said on Monday. The company will also supply the ReDrone modular system, which can detect, recognize and neutralize drones both day and night and in all weather conditions. The News.ro portal reported, citing sources, that the company signed this contract with Romania. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241216/what-drones-will-new-russias-unmanned-systems-troops-operate-1121193056.html israel romania 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 israel drones, israel supplies anti-drone systems, israel drone killer, israel arms sales https://sputnikglobe.com/20250107/trump-acknowledges-russias-concerns-over-ukraines-possible-entry-into-nato-1121376609.html Trump Acknowledges Russia's Concerns Over Ukraine's Possible Entry Into NATO Trump Acknowledges Russia's Concerns Over Ukraine's Possible Entry Into NATO Sputnik International US President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday expressed understanding of Russia's position, which opposes Ukraine accession to NATO. 2025-01-07T17:35+0000 2025-01-07T17:35+0000 2025-01-08T09:04+0000 americas donald trump vladimir putin russia ukraine nato https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0b/03/1120757862_0:0:3066:1725_1920x0_80_0_0_9e8fdad4c04370765eb77dd717524eb6.jpg "So, you know, a big part of the problem was Russia for many, many years, long before Putin said you could never have NATO involved with Ukraine. Now they have said that that has been like written in stone, and somewhere along the line, [outgoing President Joe] Biden said, no, they should be able to join NATO. Well, then Russia has somebody right on their doorstep. But I can understand their feeling about that," Trump told a press conference in Mar-a-Lago, adding that "there were a lot of mistakes made in that negotiation." Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said that Ukraine's possible membership in NATO threatens Russia's security. In June 2024, Putin said that Ukraine's abandonment of its plans to join NATO was one of the conditions under which Moscow would be ready for a ceasefire and talks.At the same time Trump declined to say when he was going to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, but added that such a meeting would not be appropriate before his inauguration on January 20.I know that Putin would like to meet. I do not think it is appropriate that I meet him until after [January] 20, Trump said.Speaking at the press conference, Trump made several key announcements and policy declarations. In particular, he promised to introduce very serious tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada in an effort to combat drug trafficking.In late November, Trump announced that upon taking office, he would impose 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico due to unresolved issues related to illegal immigration and drug trafficking in the US.Speaking about Greenland, Trump said that the US needs it for national security purposes."People really do not even know if Denmark has any legal right to it. But if they do, they should give it up because we need it for national security, that is for the free world ... and if Denmark wants to get to a conclusion, but nobody knows it they even have the right title or interest, the people are going to probably vote for independence or to come into the US, but if they did do that, then I would tariff Denmark at a very high level," he said.Trump also announced his intention to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.He added that he plan to reclaim the Panama Canal to US ownership is currently under consideration."So the Panama Canal is under discussion with them right now," Trump told journalists.Trump said on December 22 that he would demand the rapid return of the Panama Canal to American ownership due to high fees for passage through it. The politician emphasized that the Panama Canal was critically important for US trade, as well as for the rapid deployment of US naval forces in the Atlantic and the Pacific. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241222/trump-eager-for-talks-with-putin-to-end-ukrainian-conflict-1121239432.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241225/why-does-us-really-want-to-annex-greenland-1121270041.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241214/did-trump-fulfill-his-2016-campaign-promises-a-reality-check-1121168899.html americas russia ukraine 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 donald trump, russia, ukraine, ukrainian conflict, ukrainian crisis, war in ukraine, ukraine's nato membership, ukraine's nato accession For the first time ever, harness racing in the United States and Canada will have a schedule of Graded Stakes and Restricted Graded Stakes races in 2025. The list of Grade 1, 2 and 3 stakes was announced on Monday, Jan. 6. During the inaugural year of the program, there will be a total of 171 Graded Stakes, including 47 Grade 1, 47 Grade 2 and 77 Grade 3 stakes. Outside of the Breeders Crown, the list includes 37 Canadian-based Graded Stakes across the provinces of Alberta, Quebec, Ontario and Prince Edward Island. Woodbine Mohawk Park will host the most Grade 1 stakes of any other track with 12. Graded Stakes for the harness racing industry had been a topic of discussion for more than 20 years when, at the request of the major sales companies and breeders, with the United States Trotting Association (USTA) supporting the project, a Graded Stakes Committee was created in 2023 to address it. It is gratifying to see the industry come together to promote and clarify the relative quality of the sports most visible and coveted races, said Mike Tanner, chief executive officer of the USTA. The program gives both horsemen and fans a standard against which comparisons can be made, which is a good thing. The Association is proud to help facilitate the Graded Stakes Committees important mission. The purpose of the committee was to provide those breeders, owners, trainers and Standardbred horsepeople a reliable guide to the relative quality of Standardbreds by identifying the U.S. and Canadian races whose recent renewals consistently attract the highest quality of competition. The Graded Stakes Committee consists of 11 members with eight representatives selected by the USTA, as well as representatives from Standardbred Canada and the Hambletonian Society. Of the eight from the USTA, three will be racetrack representatives, two breeders, two from sales companies, and one at-large member. The original committee established grades using purses and a points calculation system from the prior four years (2021-2024) and then adjusting for the 2025 races. Three-year terms for committee members will be staggered with a limit of three terms. Terms commence on the date of the USTA Board of Directors annual meeting and expire on Aug. 1 of the committee members third year. The chair of the committee, currently USTA Vice Chairperson Mark Loewe, is selected by the full committee and serves a two-year term. The original committee members were scheduled to serve their terms until 2027 through a staggered process. In addition to Loewe, the current members are Chris Antonacci, Steve Jones, Darryl Kaplan, Mike Klau, Rich Mattei, Mark McKelvie, David Reid, Seth Rosenfeld, Steve Stewart and Pete Szymanski. To be considered for committee membership, one must have previously served as a guest observer for at least one grading session. From 2025 on, Graded Stakes will be included in yearling sales catalogue pedigree pages. The grades displayed will begin with the 2021 racing season. Graded Stakes Requirements While there are exceptions at the discretion of the committee, the following are the purse levels necessary for grading consideration (with USD and CAD purses graded at par): Male Grade 1 $350,000 and up Grade 2 $175,000 - $349,999 Grade 3 $75,000 - $174,499 Female Grade 1 $250,000 and up Grade 2 $125,000 - $249,999 Grade 3 $75,000 - $124,999 In addition, Invitational races with a minimum purse of $100,000 can be considered for grading. Restricted Races State or province restricted races, which exclude horses based upon stallion residency or mare foaling location that meet purse requirements are also eligible for a second tier of grading. Initially, only Sires Stakes finals can be graded with other restricted stakes races that are not Sires Stakes finals being given consideration for grading at a later date. Restricted stakes finals purse values regardless of sex are as follows: R3 $75,000 - $149,999 R2 $150,000 - $224,999 R1 $225,000 and up To learn more, including other criteria for grading as well as statistics considered and the point system utilized by the committee, click here. For the complete list of Grade 1, 2 and 3 stakes, click here. The complete schedule of both Graded Stakes and Restricted Graded Stakes will be announced at a later date. Schedules will be subject to revisions. (With files from USTA) When 11-year-old pacing mare Ladies From Hell makes her season's debut on Wednesday, Jan. 8 at The Raceway at Western Fair District, she will be racing with a special achievement on her resume. After earning 11 wins and more than $60,000 in purses during her 2024 campaign for the local father and daughter team of Michael and Shae Sumner, the Classic Card Shark-Jennys Place mare was named Western Fair's Older Pacing Mare of the Year. The award is a special one for 28-year-old horsewoman Shae Sumner, coming from her home track for the first racehorse she's ever owned in partnership with her father, veteran trainer Michael Sumner. In addition, it was a bit of a comeback campaign for Ladies From Hell, a former B.C. stakes winner with 46 victories and nearly $300,000 in earnings lifetime, after she was laid off for nearly a year. Michael Sumner credits Ladies From Hell's award-winning campaign to his daughter. She took over this horse and made this horse really what she is, Michael Sumner, who claimed the mare for $10,625 in November 2021, told CTV News London. I had a double-hip operation where I got two titanium hips from years of getting beat up as a driver. I wasn't even here a lot of time, and Shae really took the horse and moved her into the best class in [London,] Ontario. Western Fair will honour Ladies From Hell as its Older Pacing Mare of the Year along with other top 2024 performers at the track's annual Awards Night on Saturday, Feb. 22. For now, the Sumners are hoping Ladies From Hell can kick off another successful season on Wednesday night at The Raceway, with future plans to become a broodmare. (With files from CTV News London) Keith David Wilson passed away on Dec. 31, 2024 at Strathmere Lodge in Strathroy, Ont. A lifelong resident of Katesville Drive near Kerwood, Ont., he was in his 91st year. He is survived by his sister-in-law Dorothy Wilson. He was predeceased by his parents George and Merrilline Wilson, his brothers Raymond, Melvin and Gordon, his sister-in-law Gwen and his nephew Glenn. He will be sadly missed by Dorothy and his many nieces and nephews. Keith enjoyed farming, his pets, and was especially interested in his Standardbred racehorses. He had owned racehorses for 54 years and was part owner of some standouts like Super Glo, Rewind and Cant Beat A Tiger. More recently, he was part owner of Made Of Magic and Wilson Wall, among others. A private funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Donations may be made to Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Keith Wilson. Ali Sivritepe, maintenance manager, shows a photovoltaic cell at Elin Energys solar panel manufacturing facility in Brookshire. The latest Dallas Fed survey shows that Texas manufacturers are fretting over President-elect Donald Trumps promised tariffs despite otherwise generally positive outlooks for the new year and amid increasing factory activity across the state. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer General Dynamics new factory in the Dallas suburb of Mesquite is seen under construction early last year. The latest Dallas Fed said its future production index fell to 32.7 in December from 44 in November even though the latest survey showed that manufacturers expect to be producing more in six months. Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press Concerns about tariffs on major U.S. trading partners are dampening Texas manufacturers expectations for 2025, according to a new survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The December survey found plant owners fretting over President-elect Donald Trumps promised tariffs despite otherwise generally positive outlooks for the new year and amid increasing factory activity across the state. Tariffs are a concern, one respondent said. The ones on goods from Mexico are the biggest existential threat to this business in its 70 years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Other Texas business sectors also expressed worries about Trump following through on campaign promises that would increase their costs. In a separate survey, a restaurant expressed unease that Trump policies could create supply line interruptions similar to what we experienced during COVID, if not worse. Trump campaigned on promises to impose sweeping new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China. After the election, he said hed do so on on his first day in office as part of his effort to crack down on illegal immigration and drugs. He also promised to immediately begin mass deportations of immigrants and enact stricter immigration policies. Multiple industries could be hit by changes to immigration policy. A professional association told the Fed that large-scale deportations could severely impact the agriculture, construction, hospitality and food manufacturing industries. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Met with concerns like those found in the Feds surveys, Trump recently has shown signs of backing off his tariff promises, which called for imposing a 25% tax on all products entering the country from Canada and Mexico, and an additional 10% tariff on goods from China. While the Fed found manufacturers still expect to be producing more in six months, the Feds future production index fell to 32.7 in December from 44 in November. Other indexes of future manufacturing activity also retreated. Fed economists also pointed out that while trade and immigration policies are concerns, the incoming Trump administration also has promised deregulation and tax reduction, which businesses generally welcome. The San Antonio Zoological Society, which does business as the San Antonio Zoo, has been hit with another lawsuit by a family who alleges they were injured by a falling tree limb in 2023. William Luther This photo was submitted as a court exhibit in a 2023 lawsuit filed by a Bell County family who alleged they were injured by a falling tree limb in March 2023 at the San Antonio Zoo. The family reached a mediated settlement with the zoo in June. The zoo is now facing another lawsuit over the incident. Court document This photo was submitted as a court exhibit in a 2023 lawsuit filed by a Bell County family who alleged they were injured by a falling tree limb in March 2023 at the San Antonio Zoo. The family reached a mediated settlement with the zoo in June. The zoo is now facing another lawsuit over the incident. Court document Another Texas family is suing over injuries they say they suffered when a rotted tree limb fell and hit them while visiting the San Antonio Zoo in 2023. Theyre seeking more than $1 million in damages. Miguel Mena and Thelma Judith Robles of Pharr in Hidalgo County are suing the San Antonio Zoological Society and Alamo City Arbor Care Inc. for negligence. Robles also is suing on behalf of the couples three minor children. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This tree limb knocked the Mena family members to the ground, their lawsuit says. As a result of this horrific and unexpected incident, Plaintiffs sustained severe and permanent injuries. The complaint doesnt offer details on their injuries. Ruy Mireles, a McAllen attorney representing the family, didnt respond Monday to a phone call and email. Its the second lawsuit filed over the March 15, 2023, incident. Less than two months after it happened, Crystal and Librado Rodriguez of Temple sued on behalf of themselves and their two children. The complaint named the same defendants and sought more than $1 million in damages for injuries they suffered. They alleged the zoo failed to maintain the premises in a safe condition, free of hazards. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All four members of the Rodriguez family were hurt but daughter Jordyns injuries were particularly severe, according to the lawsuit. She suffered a traumatic brain injury, was in a coma for several days and required surgery. Her injuries were life threatening, are severe and lifelong, the suit said. Crystal Rodriguez suffered severe and permanent injuries to her head, arms, shoulders, back, legs and other parts of her body, the suit added. Librado Rodriguez suffered injuries to his back, shoulders and elsewhere, while their son, identified in the suit as C.R., suffered injuries to his knee, head, back and elsewhere. A June court filing in that case shows the zoo settled the Rodriguez familys claims for an undisclosed amount after mediation. The familys claims against Alamo City Arbor Care, however, were not settled in mediation and the case is set for trial in September. A judge has yet to sign off on the settlement with the two minor children. Robert Wilson, a lawyer for the Thomas J. Henry firm, which represents the Rodriguez family, didnt respond to a request for comment. At the time of the incident, the San Antonio Fire Department said seven people were injured including one critically after being struck by the tree limb. Witnesses said five of those hurt were children. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A zoo spokesman at the time said a large part of a cedar elm tree unexpectedly broke and fell. Mike Johanson, a Sugar Land lawyer representing the zoo in the Rodriguez familys lawsuit, called the incident an unfortunate accident that was not caused by any action or inaction caused by San Antonio Zoo or its employees. Johanson didnt respond to a request for comment on the Mena familys complaint. In a June 2023 answer to the Rodriguez familys lawsuit, the zoo said it should be discharged from the case and the plaintiffs should get nothing. Alamo City Arbor Care denied the Rodriguez familys allegations in its own June 2023 answer to the lawsuit. In an interview after the Rodriguez familys lawsuit was filed, company owner Jon Chalker said he is a certified arborist but was not trained to conduct tree-risks assessments. He disputed the lawsuits assertion that his company was negligent in failing to identify dangerous trees at the zoo. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All we did was clean up the tree when it fell, he said. Attorney Felix Arambula III, who represents the company in the Rodriguezs lawsuit, didnt respond to a request for comment. Birlasoft has been officially recognised as a supplier on the UK Governments G-Cloud 14 Procurement Framework. This achievement reinforces Birlasofts commitment to advancing digital transformation and innovation within the public sector. As an approved supplier under Lot 3 Cloud Support, Birlasoft will offer a wide range of cloud support and testing services tailored to meet the unique needs of public sector organisations. These services encompass our cloud migration, modernisation frameworks, security, assurance services (CloudOps), and financial operations (FinOps). Additionally, Birlasofts specialised offerings, such as advanced testing solutions including test consulting, automation, and quality engineering, along with enterprise systems and next-generation digital testing, will further bolster its capabilities. Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Manju Kygonahally, CEO Rest of the World Region, Birlasoft said, Joining the G-Cloud 14 framework is a significant achievement for Birlasoft as we expand our presence in the public sector and align with the UK Governments vision for digital transformation. At Birlasoft, we recognise the unique challenges that government organisations face on their path to modernisation and innovation. Our selection for the G-Cloud 14 framework gives us the opportunity to provide secure, scalable, and high-quality cloud solutions to help address these challenges. We are looking forward to demonstrating our capabilities to UK public sector organisations. The G-Cloud 14 Procurement Framework, overseen by the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), facilitates access to cloud-based computing services for public sector organisations. The framework simplifies procurement processes, providing a transparent and scalable platform for hosting, software, and support solutions. By including trusted suppliers, it ensures that public sector entities can leverage the latest cloud technology and innovation. Birlasofts inclusion in the G-Cloud 14 framework aligns with its strategic objective of promoting digital transformation within the public sector. By providing secure and efficient cloud capabilities, Birlasoft aims to improve accessibility, streamline operations, and support the modernization of government services. 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: Lambs grazing on solar farm in southern Ontario. Credit: Applied Energy (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.125057 While herding sheep is an age-old adage for leadership, breeding and raising sheep is where the money is, according to a new study led by Western University. But not just any sheep. Far more profitable are "solar" sheep, raised specifically to trim grass and weeds under traditional solar panels or agrivoltaic arrays. Agrivoltaics is a portmanteau for agriculture and photovoltaics, more commonly known as solar panels, and describes the simultaneous use of farmland for agriculture and solar energy production. The study, led by Western Engineering and Ivey Business School professor Joshua Pearce, shows utilizing sheep on solar farms was not only lucrative for farmers but offered a promising path forward to augment agriculture with solar technology. The findings were published in the journal Applied Energy. "Agrivoltaic sheep are a simple and easy solution for the co-existence of agriculture and solar energy on Canadian farms. The sheep like the shade, plus the solar panels increase grass yield and protect sheep from predators," said Pearce, Western's John M. Thompson Chair in Innovation. "Conversely, sheep eliminate the need for herbicides or costly grass cutting on the solar farms. And shepherds have a guaranteed source of revenue. Everyone wins." Despite steady growth and early adopters for agrivoltaics, the study describes enormous untapped potential in Canada for breeding sheep at both traditional and agrivoltaic farms. Canada currently imports more than $250 million worth of mutton and lamb annually. "Canada had an early start in North America in sheep-based agrivoltaics, where sheep would be brought in to trim the grass on large-scale solar farms," said Pearce. "Now the U.S. is all in. Texas tripled its sheep population with agrivoltaics while Canada has fallen behind." Pearce collaborated with professional shepherd Rafael Lara, who owns and operates The Lara Costa farm with his wife Gabriella in Vittoria, Ont. The Lara Costa is a multifaceted corporation that specializes in vegetation management for solar farms, where sheep are used for natural grazing, contributing to both sustainability and agricultural innovation. "The strategic partnership between sheep production and solar farms is certainly one of the most fantastic alternatives for the growth of both the sheep industry and for clean electricity production through solar panels," said Lara, who studied animal science at Universidade de Sao Paulo in Brazil. Lara, a director of Ontario Sheep Farmers, manages nearly 2,000 acres, utilizing more than 3,000 sheep. Having installed solar technology infrastructure across his farmland, Lara can attest that land maintained by sheep performs better than traditional pastures. Credit: University of Western Ontario "The soil's productive potential is higher than that of a regular pasture in the same area," said Lara. "Partial shading of the pasture also contributes to moisture retention, improving its resilience to climatic extremes." Using solar farms for lamb production also increases shade for the animals, makes nearly 100 percent of the land grazable and, as a byproduct, provides high-quality perimeter fencing and 24-hour surveillance cameras for farm security. In a 2022 study, which supports the new research, Pearce and Robert Handler from Michigan Tech University showed sheep are the most eco-friendly way to manage vegetation for solar farms. The research team, which also included Western alum Adam Gasch, designed and conducted a number of case studies for the new study. One case was a small-scale, family-owned farm with a 200-kilowatt solar panel system generating 262,430 kilowatt hours per year, or enough electricity to power 25 homes. A large-scale industrial solar farm with a 465-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic networkgenerating enough electricity to power more than 150,000 homeswas also investigated. "This is the first study to take a hard look at the economics of breeding sheep and it shows modern-day shepherds are actually doing really well financially," said Pearce. Enormous moneymaking potential Pearce and his collaborators also examined the financial impact of breeding ewes (female sheep) for lambs on the farm compared to purchasing lambs from auction. In every case, the earnings for shepherds before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization are higher than agriculture industry standards. This is a direct result of the increased and reliable revenue source of grazing services. The return on investments for the breeding ewe model ranges from 16% to 31% and the auction model from 22% to 43%. While the auction model offers greater potential return on investment, the breeding model exhibits higher earning margins, reflecting trade-offs between operational efficiency and initial investments. Regardless, sheep doing what sheep do besteating greenscan make lots of cash for shepherds. "There is an enormous opportunity to return millions of dollars currently used to import lamb back to Canadian farmers, if we simply started using the grass under solar panels," said Pearce. More information: Adam Gasch et al, Financial analysis of agrivoltaic sheep: Breeding and auction lamb business models, Applied Energy (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.125057 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 A new method for managing urban traffic at multi-intersection networks is discussed in the International Journal of Information and Communication Technology. The research promises improvements in efficiency and adaptability, and by combining technologies could address the long-standing challenges of congestion and unpredictable traffic patterns in dense urban areas. Renyong Zhang, Shibiao He, and Peng Lu of the Chongqing Institute of Engineering in Chongqing, China, suggest the use of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology could allow vehicles and infrastructure to exchange real-time data about road conditions and traffic. This continuous sharing of data would improve the way in which traffic management systems control traffic lights and speed and lane restrictions to smooth the flow of vehicles safely. The system suggested by the team uses an improved long short-term memory (LSTM) model, a type of artificial intelligence designed for recognizing patterns and making predictions. By using a "sliding time window" update mechanism, the model can learn from real-time data while maintaining historical context. By balancing the two, faster adjustments to traffic flow can be made while reducing the overall computational load on the system and cutting prediction times in half. The team has carried out simulations and demonstrated that such an approach might reduce average vehicle delays by just under a third and increase road "throughput" by almost 15%. The result would be shorter travel times and smoother traffic flow. This should also improve fuel consumption and reduce overall vehicle emissions. Conventional traffic management systems use historical data or limited real-time inputs, and so cannot respond to actual road conditions at a given time without manual input. Such systems are useful in less complex traffic scenarios, but struggle to handle rapid and unpredictable changes in traffic, particularly in larger, interconnected networks. The newly proposed system addresses these limitations by offering more responsive and precise adjustments. More information: Renyong Zhang et al, Multi-intersection traffic flow prediction control based on vehicle-road collaboration V2X and improved LSTM, International Journal of Information and Communication Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1504/IJICT.2024.143411 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: Charging a solid-state battery. Credit: Shirley Reis Lithium-ion batteries are widely viewed as a necessity for meeting our growing energy demands while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. So far, however, their commercial rollout has been hindered by safety issues relating to their use of liquid electrolytes: including the possibility for the harmful chemicals they contain to leak into the environment, or even explode if they become too hot. In a recent study published in Solid State Ionics, Shirley Reis and colleagues at the SENAI Innovation Institute in Electrochemistry, Curitiba, Brazil, show how strong performance can be maintained and safety improved in lithium-ion batteries when liquid electrolytes are replaced with solid composites, composed of specially engineered blends of ceramic and polymer electrolytes. These promising findings show that when the right materials are employed, solid-state batteries could become well suited for applications including electric vehicles, and storage for renewable energy. "As part of a 5-year partnership between our Institute and the Brazilian Metallurgy and Mining Company (CBMM), the main goal of our study is to enable the use of niobium-based raw materials produced by the company for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries," says Reis. In both solid- and liquid-state batteries, charges are carried by ions in an electrolyte, which is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes. These ions move from the anode to the cathode as the battery discharges, then back again during charging. Yet solid-state batteries offer clear advantages over their liquid-state counterpartsat least in principle. "Since they are non-flammable and have a higher thermal stability, solid-state batteries are a highly sought-after technology, and have been widely studied as a substitute for liquid electrolytes," Reis explains. "However, more studies are needed to gain a better understanding of the technology and bring it to the commercial market." The challenge is that solid electrolytes often come with significant limitations that make them unsuitable for use in commercial batteries. In particular, ceramic electrolytes have high ionic conductivities and are stable at high voltages, but are often very brittle. In contrast, polymer electrolytes are far more flexible, but have low ionic conductivities, and are often unstable at high voltages. In their study, Reis' team examined the possibility of blending ceramic and polymer electrolytes into 'composite' electrolytes, which combine the unique advantages of both materials. The composite produced by the team included a blend of zirconium-doped niobium garnet oxide and polyethylene oxide polymer. They investigated its performance when charged and discharged using a metallic lithium anode and a high-nickel NMC cathode, They also tested out different variations in the ratio between ceramic and polymer in the composite, allowing them to precisely determine which composition was best suited to a solid-state battery. In all of the composites they tested, the electrolyte demonstrated a good flexibility, high conductivity of lithium ions, and strong stability at high voltages. It could even retain much of its original charge capacity after numerous cycles of charging and discharging. As Reis describes, "the results are promising, and indicate the possibility of the use of highnickel cathodes in all-solid-state batteries to increase their energy density." In demonstrating such a strong performance in a battery made from low-cost, readily available materials, the researchers are now hopeful that their results have promising implications for the future of solid-state lithium-ion batteries. "The growth of the lithium-ion battery market all around the world opens new opportunities to develop new materials and technologies that improve batteries' properties," Reis concludes. "The results obtained in our paper are very consistent with the literature, and we hope they will help to improve our understanding of how composite electrolytes can be used for all-solid-state batteries with high-nickel cathode materials." More information: Juliane B. Kosctiuk et al, Niobium garnet/polyethylene oxide composite as a solid electrolyte for all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) with high-nickel cathodes, Solid State Ionics (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssi.2024.116607 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: An "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft built by Joby Aviation is parked at an airfield in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea When he was still a boy making long, tedious trips between his school and his woodsy home in the mountains during the 1980s, JoeBen Bevirt began fantasizing about flying cars that could whisk him to his destination in a matter of minutes. As CEO of Joby Aviation, Bevirt is getting closer to turning his boyhood flights of fancy into a dream come true as he and latter-day versions of the Wright Brothers launch a new class of electric-powered aircraft vying to become taxis in the sky. The aircraftknown as "electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle, or eVTOLlift off the ground like a helicopter before flying at speeds up to 200 miles per hour (322 kilometers per hour) with a range of about 100 miles (161 kilometers). And these craft do it without filling the air with excessive noise caused by fuel-powered helicopters and small airplanes. "We are just a few steps from the finish line. We want to turn what are now one- and two-hour trips into five-minute trips," Bevirt, 51, told The Associated Press before a Joby air taxi took off on a test flight in Marina, Californialocated about 40 miles south from where he grew up in the mountains. Archer Aviation, a Silicon Valley a Silicon Valley company backed by automaker Stellantis and United Airlines, has been testing its own eVTOLs over farmland in Salinas, California, where a prototype called "Midnight" could be seen gliding above a tractor plowing fields last November. JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, stands next to an "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft, also known as an eVTOL, in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea The tests are part of the journey that Joby Aviation and other ambitious companies that collectively have raised billions of dollars are taking to turn flying cars into more than just pie-in-the-sky concepts popularized in 1960s-era cartoon series, "The Jetsons," and the 1982 science fiction film, "Blade Runner." Archer Aviation and nearby Wisk Aero, with ties to aerospace giant Boeing Co. and Google co-founder Larry Page, are also at the forefront in the race to bring air taxis to market in the United States. Joby has already formed a partnership to connect its air taxis with Delta Air Lines passengers while Archer Aviation has lined up a deal to sell up to 200 of its aircraft to United Airlines. Flying taxis have made enough regulatory inroads with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to result in the recent creation of a new aircraft category called "powered lift," a step that the agency hadn't taken since helicopters were introduced for civilian use in the 1940s. An "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft built by Archer Aviation is parked at an airfield in Salinas, Calif. in 2024. Credit: Archer Aviation via AP But there are more regulatory hurdles to be cleared before air taxis will be allowed to carry passengers in the U.S., making Dubai the most likely place where eVTOLs will take commercial flightperhaps by the end of this year. "It's a tricky business to develop a whole new class of vehicles," said Alan Lim, director of Alton Aviation Consultancy, a firm tracking the industry's evolution. "It is going to be like a crawl, walk, run situation. Right now, I think we are still crawling. We are not going to have the Jetsons-type reality where everyone will be flying around everywhere in the next two to three years." China is also vying to make flying cars a reality, a quest that has piqued President-elect Donald Trump's interest in making the vehicles a priority for his incoming administration during the next four years. An "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft built by Joby Aviation lands at an airfield in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea If the ambitions of eVTOL pioneers are realized in the U.S., people will be able to hop in an air taxi to get to and from airports serving New York and Los Angeles within the next few years. Because its electric taxis can fly unimpeded at high speeds, Joby envisions transporting up to four Delta Air Lines passengers at a time from New York area airports to Manhattan in about 10 minutes or less. To start, air taxi prices almost certainly will be significantly more that the cost of taking a cab or Uber ride from JFK airport to Manhattan, but the difference could narrow over time because eVTOLs should be able to transport a higher volume of passengers than ground vehicles stuck in traffic going each way. "You will see highways in the sky," Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein predicted during an interview at the company's San Jose, California, headquarters. "There will be hundreds, maybe thousands of these aircraft flying in these individual cities and it will truly change the way cities are being built." An "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft built by Joby Aviation flies over an airfield in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea Investors are betting Goldstein is right, helping Archer raise an additional $430 million late last year from a group that included Stellantis and United Airlines. The infusion came shortly after a Japanese automaker poured another $500 million into Joby to bring its total investment in that company to nearly $900 million. Those investments were part of the $13 billion that eVTOL companies have raised during the past five years, according to Alton Aviation. Both Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation went public in 2021 through reverse mergers, opening up another fundraising avenue and making it easier to recruit engineers with the allure of stock options. Both companies have been able to attract workers away from electric automaker Tesla and rocket maker SpaceX and, in Archer's instance, raiding the ranks of Wisk Aero. JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, stands next to an "electric vertical take-off and landing" aircraft, also known as an eVTOL, in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea The Wisk defections triggered a lawsuit accusing Archer of intellectual property theft in a dispute that was resolved with a 2023 settlement that included an agreement for the two sides to collaborate on some facets of eVTOL technology. Before going public, Joby also acquired eVTOL technology developed by ride-hailing service Uber in an $83 million deal that also brought those two companies together as partners. But none of the deals or technological advances have stopped the losses from piling up at the companies building flying cars. Joby, whose roots date back to 2009 when Bevirt founded the company, has sustained $1.6 billion in losses since its inception while Archer has amassed nearly $1.5 billion in losses since its founding in 2018. While they moved to commercial air taxi services, both Joby and Archer are trying to bring in revenue by negotiating contracts to use their eVTOLs in the U.S. military for deliveries and other other short-range missions. Archer has forged a partnership with Anduril Industries, a military defense technology specialist founded by Oculus headset inventor Palmer Luckey, to help it win deals. A Joby Aviation employees works on the assembly of an "electric vertical takeoff and landing" eVTOL aircraft in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea Joby Aviation employees assemble parts for an "electric vertical takeoff and landing" eVTOL aircraft in Marina, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein speaks at the company's headquarters in San Jose, Calif. on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea A phone displays a Joby Aviation mobile app that consumers could use to take a flight in an "electric vertical takeoff and landing" eVTOL aircraft. San Carlos, Calif. on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Terry Chea The uncertain prospects have left both companies with relatively low market values by tech industry standards, with Joby's hovering around $7 billion and Archer's $6 billion. But Bevirt sees blue skies ahead. "eVTOLs are going to transform the way we move," he said. "It's a dramatically better way to get around. Seeing the world from the air is better than being stuck in the traffic on the interstate." 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Render of MiM environment with Walrus Skull. Credit: Museums in the Metaverse A global survey has revealed an overwhelming public interest in accessing museum collections through virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) technologies. Researchers at the University of Glasgow say it will also help museums and cultural heritage institutions to chart a course for using virtual heritage experiences to transform digital access to their collections. Conducted as part of the Museums in the Metaverse (MiM) 5.6 million project, based at the University of Glasgow's Advanced Research Center, this study is the largest of its kind, gathering insights from more than 2,000 participants worldwide. The research provides crucial evidence for how museums can evolve to meet growing public demand for digital experiences, particularly in making accessible the estimated 90% of collections currently held in storage. MiM is developing an XR platform for cultural heritage collections and also exploring how it can transform access to museum objects currently held in storage. The findings indicate strong public enthusiasm for digital experiences, including virtual exhibitions and opportunities for greater interaction with cultural artifacts, an enthusiasm which is already beginning to be reflected in VR arcades and virtual experiences worldwide. The University of Glasgow research is providing new evidence for the directions the virtual museum should take. Key survey results in the Museums in the Metaverse Audiences and Impacts Report include: 79% of respondents expressed interest in using digital technology to explore cultural collections currently inaccessible to the public. 77%definitely (52%) or probably (25%)would be interested in using VR to access cultural heritage collections that are currently inaccessible to them. There were elevated levels of both awareness of and engagement with VR technology by respondents with 55% reported being both aware of and having tried VR technology. 96% of those who took part in the survey reported being at least aware of VR technology Respondents also expressed positive willingness to pay (WTP)and willingness to be paidsentiment relating to virtual Cultural Heritage content. A combined 38% of respondents reported being "probably" or "definitely" willing to pay for virtual Cultural Heritage experiences. While a combined 51% reported being either "probably" or "definitely" willing to be paid for the virtual experiences they create. Professor Murray Pittock, co-author of the report, highlighted the study's significance: "This is the largest global study on virtual museums to date, revealing not just what future audiences want but how museums can adapt to meet these demands. "Our research reveals a clear appetite for immersive digital experiences, with people eager to interact with cultural artifacts in new and exciting ways. This shift in public expectations is already visible in the growing popularity of virtual reality cultural spaces globally, and our findings at Glasgow are helping chart a course for how museums can embrace this digital future." The study also shows the potential for XR technology to attract younger audiences, with previous virtual projects engaging significant numbers of 25- to 34-year-olds. This shift could redefine museum demographics by appealing to digitally savvy younger generations through interactive, immersive experiences. The research also highlighted that early trials around the world have already demonstrated the potential of virtual museums. For example, Paris' Musee d'Orsay's VR Impressionist experience drew 18,000 visitors in just five months, while Vienna's Hofburg reported record visitor numbers in 2023, with 25 million people engaging with its physical and digital offerings. Fergus Bruce, co-author and research associate in digital culture & heritage economy for MiM, stated, "Our research hereconducted over several months and drawn from a diverse audience sample of thousands of Cultural Heritage enthusiastsdemonstrates that there is a clear appetite for virtual access and engagement with collections; a willingness to pay for content created using such access (on both a one-off and subscription basis); and also an interest in being paid for citizen-curated cultural experiences. "These are important findings for any collections or custodians looking to increase the reach, impact, and sustainability of the cultural materials they hold." The survey also underscores the transformative potential of VR and XR technologies in democratizing access to cultural heritage to create new opportunities for public interaction, and enhancing the sustainability of cultural institutions. When completed in March 2025, MiM will create a groundbreaking two-sided XR platform that aims to empower diverse visitors to explore cultural assets in new and engaging ways. One side of the platform is for visitors to gain access to a rich array of museums, sites, objects, and novel and dynamic experiences. The other is for virtual curators, where experts and beginners alike can build enriching and entertaining narratives using objects and virtual environments that have never before been placed together in the real world. More information: Museums in the Metaverse Audiences and Impact Report. www.gla.ac.uk/media/Media_1138224_smxx.pdf 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: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says the US tech giant plans to invest $3 billion in India on AI and cloud infrastructure over the next two years. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Tuesday said the company plans to invest $3 billion in India on artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure over the next two years. The world's most populous country has become a key AI battleground in the last few years, as US tech giants look to find new users for their services and tap into fresh pools of talent. In recent months, top executives including Nvidia boss Jensen Huang and Meta's chief AI scientist Yann LeCun have visited India. On Tuesday, Nadella said the $3 billion investment would include the setting up of new data centers. "India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunity across the country," Nadella said. "The investments in infrastructure and skilling we are announcing today reaffirm our commitment to making India AI-first, and will help ensure people and organizations across the country benefit broadly." The global embrace of AI has boosted sales of Microsoft's key cloud services, which have become the core of its business under Nadella's leadership. The announcement comes less than a week after Microsoft president Brad Smith said the company was on track to invest $80 billion in AI this fiscal year. Microsoft was on pace to invest about $80 billion this year to build out AI datacentres, train AI models and deploy cloud-based applications around the world, according to Smith. "The United States is poised to stand at the forefront of this new technology wave, especially if it doubles down on its strengths and effectively partners internationally," he said in an online post. 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: Credit: Zeng et al. Humans and animals are the key inspiration for many robotic systems developed to date, as they possess body structures that innately support efficient locomotion. While many bipedal (i.e., two-legged) robots are humanoids, meaning that their body resembles that of humans, others draw inspiration from other animals that walk on two legs, such as ostriches and some other birds. Researchers at Shandong University recently developed KOU-III a new bipedal robot that can move more efficiently in its surroundings. This robot, presented in a paper posted to the SSRN preprint server, can stand robustly on its two legs, while also effectively performing both walking and jumping motions. "The name KOU originates from a figure in ancient Chinese mythology named Lie Yukou, who was said to be capable of riding the wind," Xianwu Zeng, co-author of the paper, told Tech Xplore. "When developing our robot, we were also inspired by a video uploaded 10 years ago by MSC Lab. KAIST on YouTube. The video showed a bipedal robot constrained to planar motion, achieving a speed of 46 km/h. Seven years ago, Insider Tech uploaded a similar video, which demonstrated an ostrich-inspired robot reaching a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour." Inspired by videos of ostrich-like robots, Zeng and his colleagues set out to explore the possibility of changing the constraints of these robots, with the goal of improving their maneuverability and motions during locomotion. This led to the development of their robot, which draws inspiration from legged animals that move leveraging auxiliary mechanisms. Quadrotor-assisted bipedal robot jumping and walking on grass "For instance, humans swing their arms to counteract the angular momentum generated by their legs during high-speed movements, such as sprinting," said Zeng. "Similarly, ostriches and roadrunners rarely use their wings for flight but flap them during rapid running, jumping, or sharp turns, where the wings serve as auxiliary mechanisms." KOU-III, the bipedal robot developed by Zeng and his colleagues, also moves in its surroundings utilizing an auxiliary mechanism. Specifically, it leverages rotors, rotating mechanical systems that stabilize the robot as it moves, while also generating lift to partly support the robot's weight while it is moving. Credit: Zeng et al. "This is especially beneficial during jumping, as the rotors enable the robot to jump higher," explained Zeng. "This concept was inspired by the jumping behavior of the Red-Capped Manakin, which uses its wings to perform courtship jumps." The quadrotor-assisted mechanism underpinning the movements of KOU-III was found to improve both the robot's motions and stability, reducing mechanical stress during locomotion. Overall, the findings gathered by the researchers highlight the promise of robot-based auxiliary mechanisms for enhancing bipedal robot locomotion. Quadrotor-assisted bipedal robot gracefully jumping up a step "The rotors actively provide torques for pitch and roll stabilization, as well as vertical lift, enabling the regulation of angular momentum generated by high-performance legged motion while offsetting part of the robot's weight," said Zeng. "Crucially, during airborne jumps, the robot's posture can be rapidly adjusted using the rotors." As part of their study, Zeng and his colleagues also developed a control strategy that plans and executes their robot's movements. This control algorithm was used to reliably execute standing, walking and jumping actions with the KOU-III robot. Quadrotor-assisted bipedal robot walking quickly "Unlike direct flight, we can adjust rotor output powerreducing or shutting it down when high mobility is unnecessary and increasing power only when needed," said Zeng. "This approach reduces energy consumption, minimizes rotor noise, and leverages the strong load-bearing capabilities of legged robots." The new robot developed by this team of researchers could soon be improved and tested further across a wider range of scenarios. In the future, it could inspire the development of other bipedal robots and could eventually be deployed in real-world settings, where it could assist humans as they are completing various tasks. Walking without quadrotor assistance "Building on the successful use of rotors as legged assistance mechanisms, we aim to explore other more efficient and safer auxiliary systems and develop corresponding motion control strategies," added Zeng. "Additionally, we plan to investigate potential applications for KOU-III, such as exploring narrow, rugged underground caves unsuitable for flight or clearing landmines in abandoned battlefields to ensure personnel safety and facilitate land cultivation." More information: Xianwu Zeng et al, Kou-Iii: A Bipedal Robot with Quadrotor-Assisted Locomotion, SSRN (2024). DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.5056354 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: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain TikTok creators are posting videos promoting ways to get around a looming shutdown of the app in the U.S., 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. 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 they're 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 Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store, or using TikTok on a web browser instead. Though some creators acknowledge that these technical workarounds may not ultimately work, many appear confidenteven desperateas 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. "I don't think the U.S. government understands that, like, if they ban TikTok, we're 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 didn't respond to requests for comment. TikTok's 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 TikTokwhich the tech giant has said it refuses to door 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. 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 U.S. app stores just over a week. 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 U.S., a scenario that would thrust several leading American tech companies into the middle of a geopolitical war. The law does not cite U.S. 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. 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 TikTokthe company claims 170 million monthly userspenalties 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 the University of Minnesota Law School, but it will be illegal for businesses such as Apple and Google to offer the TikTok app in the U.S. 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 don't have the support legally, so it's best for us to be compliant, regardless of how much potential business we lose." Dani Morin, a creator and child safety advocate, said she doesn't think switching the app's location will help creators. TikTok in Canada, for example, doesn't offer TikTok Shop or TikTok's 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. It's 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 doesn't believe the law covers internet service providers since those companies don't provide marketplace or internet hosting services. "I think access to TikTok.com will continue, as long as they move the servers offshore," Chander said. But other experts believe the law does cover TikTok's website and internet service providers. While broadband providers like Comcast Corp. or AT&T Inc. aren't specifically targeted by the law, those providers could face liability if they become aware of people in the U.S. 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 TikTok's lawsuit. Trump's 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 he'd 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 won't 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. 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 doesn't have to work perfectly for it to be fatal to the TikTok enterprise," he said. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Commentary: China-Africa cooperation sets stellar example for advancing shared prosperity 08:07, January 07, 2025 By Zeng Yan, Liu Bowei ( Xinhua This photo taken on Dec. 1, 2024 shows a train of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Blue Line in Lagos, Nigeria. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen) In a world marred by power politics and hegemony, the significance of the China-Africa partnership becomes even clearer. It stands as a beacon of equality, common development and shared prosperity. BEIJING, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- As the new year unfolds, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has commenced his first overseas visit of 2025 with a tour of Africa, continuing a diplomatic tradition that marks its 35th year. The trip underscores China's enduring commitment to strengthening cooperation with Africa and bolstering solidarity among nations of the Global South. The visit builds on the foundation laid at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) last year, where Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed that bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China be elevated to the level of strategic relations. Xi also proposed that the overall characterization of China-Africa relations be elevated to an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. The move marked a milestone in China-Africa ties, highlighting China's firm determination to continuously elevate China-Africa cooperation to new levels. Under the principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, cooperation projects between China and Africa have significantly contributed to the continent's sustainable development. Over the last quarter-century, Chinese companies have helped African countries build or upgrade more than 10,000 km of railways, nearly 100,000 km of highways, 1,000 bridges, 100 ports and 66,000 km of power transmission and distribution lines, all of which have created arteries of connectivity across the African continent. This photo taken on May 13, 2023 shows a toll station of Ila-Touba highway near Thies, Senegal. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) Beyond infrastructure, China is also working with Africa to drive the continent's green transition through investments in hydropower, windpower and solar energy, and address key challenges in agricultural technology and food security. Over the past decade, China has set up 24 agricultural technology demonstration centers in Africa and popularized more than 300 advanced agricultural technologies, which have increased local crop yields by an average of 30 to 60 percent, benefiting more than 1 million farmers in African countries. These initiatives have not only boosted Africa's infrastructure, technology and industrial growth, but also enhanced local communities' access to education, healthcare and energy, supporting Africa's efforts in such critical areas as poverty reduction, climate change response and economic diversification. As China strengthens its cooperation with African nations, the focus remains on creating long-term, win-win outcomes that align with the development goals of both sides. This enduring commitment is poised to drive further progress and cooperation in the years ahead. In a world grappling with political and economic instability, the unity of the Global South has emerged as a cornerstone for fostering stability and promoting shared development. Within this context, China-Africa cooperation extends beyond bilateral ties, offering a model for partnerships between developing nations. As major members in the Global South, China and Africa have joined forces to advance major development initiatives, aligning China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with the African Continental Free Trade Area. This cooperation has created unprecedented opportunities for Global South nations to better integrate into global value chains, unlocking pathways for industrialization, job creation and infrastructure development. The cooperation between China and Africa extends beyond economic matters. The two sides have long shared a vision of promoting a more equitable and inclusive global governance system, one that amplifies the voices of Global South nations on the international stage. This shared goal has been reflected in numerous joint efforts aimed at enhancing the representation and influence of developing nations in key global institutions. China was the first country to explicitly express its support for the African Union's membership of the G20. By backing Africa's entry into the G20, China not only boosts Africa's global stature but also strengthens the voice of the Global South on critical issues such as climate change, global health, poverty reduction and trade reform. In a world marred by power politics and hegemony, the significance of the China-Africa partnership becomes even clearer. It stands as a beacon of equality, common development and shared prosperity. This partnership is by no means transactional; it embodies a vision for a more just and equitable global order. Together, China and Africa are better positioned to advocate for international fairness, true multilateralism and the interests of the Global South. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG Renderings submitted to the city show the Broadway East development. Fulcrum Development, GrayStreet Partners, KPF, Ford Powell & Carson and DWG A plan to build stores and restaurants along a mostly vacant stretch of Broadway the first phase of a larger mixed-use development that could rise across from Pearl is moving forward after years of planning. Fulcrum Development and GrayStreet Partners are scheduled to ask the citys Historic and Design Review Commission on Wednesday to grant conceptual approval to designs for the first piece of the project dubbed Broadway East. Documents submitted to the city show a cluster of buildings totaling more than 60,000 square feet between Broadway, Casa Blanca Street, North Alamo Street and the 1800 Broadway apartment complex. The buildings appear to range from two to three stories with asymmetrical rooflines, surrounded by plants and open-air walkways. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fulcrum and GrayStreet may have already lined up some tenants, though its unclear whether the names in its city filings are simply placeholders. One slot in the site plans is labeled The Henry/Culinary Dropout. Phoenix-based Fox Restaurant Concepts operates two chains bearing those names. Culinary Dropout, which has locations in Dallas and Austin, is a casual-dining gastropub chain with live music, big-screen televisions and games. The Henry, which has a Dallas location, is billed as a more upscale neighborhood restaurant. Other spaces are labeled 400 Gradi, a pizza chain in the Dallas-Fort Worth area; Doc Bs, a small American food chain with restaurants in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth and cities outside Texas; Steak 48, a steakhouse concept with a Houston location; and Uptown Sushi, a Houston restaurant. The 400 Gradi location in McKinney closed recently, and another location in Dallas is slated to shut down soon. The other slots are not labeled with specific tenants. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The San Antonio-based developers are also seeking to extend Pearl Parkway through the property, move a historic house at 1611 N. Alamo St. to another location and demolish an adjacent house at 1613 N. Alamo, which was damaged by a fire in April, according to the documents. They would keep a historic building facade that faces Broadway, next to the 1800 Broadway apartment complex. Executives at Fulcrum and GrayStreet did not respond to inquiries. A website for Broadway East indicates that the first phase will encompass 170,000 square feet, with other phases of the 15-acre project stretching east to include a hotel and housing. It describes the development as the premier shopping destination in core San Antonio, with an anticipated completion date of mid-2027. Long planned The project has been in the works for years. Advertisement Article continues below this ad GrayStreet began buying land across Broadway from Pearl in 2014 and eventually amassed more than 20 acres. The firm teamed up with Midway, a Houston developer, in 2020 to build the project in phases through 2030. GrayStreet sold a sliver of its holdings in 2020 to Encore Enterprises Inc., which constructed the Encore Grayson apartment complex at West Carson and Austin streets. But in 2021, GrayStreet put most of its land there up for sale, raising questions about whether Broadway East would come to fruition. GrayStreet managing partner Kevin Covey said some of the firms investors were ready to move on and securing financing had become more difficult in the aftermath of the pandemic. GrayStreets efforts to unload the property drew two lawsuits, including one filed by Midway, which accused GrayStreet of breaking a contract that Midway said gave it the right of first refusal to develop Broadway East. Dallas-based McWhinney Real Estate Services Inc. also alleged it had a right of first refusal to buy the property. Both lawsuits have been dropped. Fulcrum bought 15 acres from GrayStreet through BESA Land Partners LP in 2021. The firm has built retail and office projects such as Alon Town Centre, Culebra Commons and the Market at Boerne Stage on the citys North and West sides. But GrayStreet remained involved with the Broadway East project. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Last year, GrayStreet and Fulcrum scaled back plans for Broadway East, reducing the height and density of buildings fronting Broadway. Covey previously has said half of Broadway East would be dedicated to food and beverage options and that it would be unlikely that office space would be part of the project. In one of the layouts submitted to the city, several buildings are labeled retail/office, but most appear to be designed for shops and restaurants. Future phases Future phases will include up to 1,000 apartments, a hotel and possibly townhouses or condominiums but its unclear what the timeline for completing the entire development would be, Covey said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The mixed-use development with Fulcrum isnt the only deal GrayStreet has made involving property along Broadway. In 2023, GrayStreet sold a site at the corner of East Grayson and North Alamo streets to a company affiliated with Chicago-based Phoenix Development Partners. Phoenix Development plans to begin construction in November on a 175-room Residence Inn by Marriott hotel, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. GrayStreet also acquired the Pig Stand diner property and adjacent buildings in 2023. The Pig Stand closed in 2023, the last vestige of a chain that began in Dallas in 1921. 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. Congress Releases Recommendations for AI Governance The bipartisan House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence recently released a report with recommendations to bolster American leadership in AI. The task force, co-chaired by Reps. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) and Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), reflects months of consultation with relevant committees and experts to balance the promise of AI innovation with safeguards against its potential risks. The report, which was announced by U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, seeks to establish a legislative framework that encourages AI adoption while protecting consumers and national interests. "Because advancements in artificial intelligence have the potential to rapidly transform our economy and national security, Jeffries and I established the Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence to ensure America continues leading in this strategic arena," Johnson said in a statement. "Developing a bipartisan vision for AI adoption, innovation, and governance is no easy task, but a necessary one as we look to the future of AI." The task force's findings arrive amid a global race to harness AI capabilities, which have spurred breakthroughs across industries but also raised concerns about misuse, workforce disruptions and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The report offers a forward-looking approach to AI governance, designed to support innovation while implementing essential safeguards. Jeffries emphasized the dual role of Congress in advancing AI benefits while mitigating risks. "The development and safe adoption of artificial intelligence holds great promise to make a positive difference in the lives of the American people," Jeffries said. "At the same time, we must ensure that appropriate guardrails are in place to prevent bad actors from exploiting this transformative technology." Task force leaders characterize the report as a foundation for future AI legislation, shaped by expert analysis and bipartisan consensus. Obernolte, who chairs the task force, called the document a "roadmap for Congress" that balances consumer protection with the need to foster U.S. innovation. "It is our hope that this report will inform Congress and the American people on the advantages, complexities, and risks of artificial intelligence," Obernolte said. Co-chair Lieu acknowledged the complexity of achieving bipartisan consensus on an issue as fast-moving as AI. "Despite the wide spectrum of political views of Members on our Task Force, we created a report that reflects our shared vision for a future where we protect people and champion American innovation," he said. "This initial report is only the first step." AI's rapid evolution has prompted global calls for regulatory frameworks that address challenges ranging from misinformation and privacy violations to ethical use of autonomous systems. The House Task Force report comes as lawmakers in the U.S. seek to position the country as a leader in AI development while establishing safeguards to curb potential abuses. Both Johnson and Jeffries praised the task force for its work and reiterated the importance of bipartisan collaboration on AI policy. The report, which blends research, analysis, and stakeholder input, is expected to guide legislative proposals in the coming months as Congress grapples with how to govern a technology set to redefine industries and economies worldwide. Last February, Johnson and Jeffries announced the establishment of a bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence to explore how Congress can ensure America continues to lead the world in AI innovation while considering guardrails that may be appropriate to safeguard the nation against current and emerging threats. For more information, read the full report here. Jacob Beltran covers crime, breaking news and general assignments for the Express-News. He can be reached at jbeltran@express-news.net. A San Antonio native, Jacob began his journalism career in 2010. He's worked for the student-run newspaper for San Antonio College, The Ranger, and for Texas A&M University-San Antonio, The Mesquite. He enjoys video games, photography and exploring during his free time. (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. stc pay, a leading mobile wallet for digital financial transactions in Bahrain, is leveraging Mastercard Move to become the first company in the country to offer secure and efficient remittances to Alipay, Chinas leading digital open platform under Ant Group. This builds on Mastercard Moves connection to Alipay earlier this year to enable fast and secure international remittances to Alipay, the company said. Representing a crucial step in enhancing stc pays portfolio, the collaboration aligns with the strategic business cooperation between Bahrain and China. The initiative will significantly benefit consumers and businesses by providing them with a reliable remittance service, thereby enabling secure financial transactions between both countries. Eng Khalid Al Osaimi, Chairman of stc pay and CEO of stc Bahrain, said: By leveraging our strategic relationship with Mastercard and its extensive global network and services, stc pay is expanding its digital ecosystem to provide greater choice and flexibility for consumers and businesses. This collaboration demonstrates our commitment and empowering our customers with secure, transparent international money transfers." Mastercard empowers consumers and businesses around the world to cross international divides with the push of a button, providing greater convenience and peace of mind. Building on our shared commitment to bringing more people into the digital economy, the collaboration with stc pay is a major milestone in unlocking fast and efficient cross-border payments between Bahrain and China, said Onur Kursun, Head of New Payment Platforms, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard. Mastercard Move is Mastercards comprehensive portfolio of money transfer capabilities that provides banks, non-bank financial institutions, direct disbursers and their customers with a variety of money transfer experiences, both domestically and internationally. The portfolio facilitates the movement of funds across over 180 countries in 150+ currencies. - TradeArabia News Service Oman International Development and Investment Company (Ominvest) has announced a significant milestone in its growth trajectory with the signing of a $500 million facility arranged by Gulf International Bank (GIB) along with their partners ABK and Gulf Bank. A leading investment company in the region, Ominvest said this agreement marks the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership with the financing institutions aimed at driving growth and investment opportunities in Oman and the wider region. The deal will enable Ominvest to drive impactful investments and generate significant value for the firm and the economies it serves. The terms of this facility underscore the institutions confidence in Ominvest's vision and future prospects. This partnership is poised to not only accelerate Ominvest's ambitious growth strategy but also catalyze economic development in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. "Ominvest is one of the largest listed investment companies in the region and has been consistently profitable with an enviable track record of uninterrupted dividend payments to shareholders. This partnership with GIB, ABK, and Gulf Bank is a testament to Ominvest's commitment to driving sustainable economic growth in Oman," remarked its Group CEO Abdulaziz Al Balushi. "This long-term relationship perfectly aligns with Ominvest's vision and provides us with the financial firepower to accelerate our strategic initiatives, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and contribute to the realization of Oman Vision 2040," he stated. "We are not simply seeking to grow; we are strategically positioning Ominvest to be a catalyst for economic transformation in Oman and beyond. Furthermore, as the global economy evolves, we see significant opportunities to leverage our regional expertise and partner with international investors seeking access to these dynamic markets," noted Al Balushi. "We express our sincere gratitude to GIB, ABK and Gulf Bank for arranging this facility, and for their confidence in Ominvest and their commitment to this transformative partnership. We believe that this collaboration will be mutually beneficial and contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of Oman and the wider region," he added. Sanjay Kawatra, Deputy Group CEO of Ominvest, highlighting the strategic importance of this relationship, said: "This agreement with GIB, ABK, and Gulf Bank is more than just a financial transaction; it's a strategic alliance that aligns perfectly with Ominvest's long-term vision. It empowers us with the financial flexibility to execute our investment plan, pursue promising opportunities and accelerate our growth trajectory. This collaboration will not only maximize returns for our shareholders but also further solidify Ominvest's position as a leading investor in the region." Sara Abdulhadi, Chief Executive Officer of GIB said: "We are highly optimistic about the economic prospects of the region, particularly Oman. Having recently secured a license from the Central Bank of Oman, we see tremendous potential for growth and are eager to contribute to this dynamic market." "This partnership with Ominvest goes beyond capital; it's about combining GIB's financial strength with Ominvest's deep understanding of the local landscape. We believe this collaboration will become a benchmark for how financial institutions can partner with local investors to create lasting economic value and opportunity, actively supporting Oman's diversification strategy and the goals of Vision 2040," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Dorsch Global, a major consulting and engineering group, said it has secured the lead supervision engineering consultancy contract for wastewater management projects in Saudi Arabia worth over SAR800 million ($213 million) from National Water Company. As per the five-year partnership deal, Dorsch Global will supervise and manage the implementation of the water and wastewater projects across two geographical clusters. The agreement aims to leverage Dorschs global expertise to provide specialised personnel and resources as well as engineering and consultancy services, including design review, contract management, construction management, construction supervision and testing and commissioning activities. Dorsch Global said the agreement is divided across two geographical clusters. The southern region cluster includes the supervision to execute 154 projects valued at SAR490 million, while the northwestern region cluster includes 99 projects valued at SAR336 million. These mega projects are part of the Saudi Arabian National Water strategy, which the NWC is constructing as part of its efforts to enhance operational efficiency, reinforce the water distribution system, achieve water security and provide sustainable water services across all cities and governorates in Saudi Arabia, stated the top German group. "I am so proud of the whole team in Saudi Arabia. This mega project reflects the quality and reputation that Dorsch is globally known for as well as the teams driving them," remarked Ayman Haikal, the CEO of Dorsch Global & MEAA. "Our best-in-class technical capabilities deliver customized solutions that will meet and exceed the expectations of the Saudi Arabian National Company," he stated. Dorschs previous water project experience in Saudi Arabia includes the extension of the urban water supply system for various municipalities in the kingdom, through technical, financial and administrative site supervision, ensuring strict adherence to technical specifications the project, noted Haikal. According to him, the group is also managing other mega projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia like the Intelligent Transportation System for Riyadh City, and supporting the construction of the Urban Forestation Green Riyadh initiative. These projects underscore the company's expertise and substantial contributions to the Kingdoms infrastructure and economic growth, he added. Recently Dorsch placed the 40th position in the 2024 ENR Top 225 International Design Firms ranking, with an impressive leap from its previous ranking of 77th in 2023. This recognition underscores the firm's growing influence and success in the global market. Headquartered in Frankfurt, Dorsch Global is recognized as a leading consulting and engineering company shaping sustainable communities and cities for present and future generations. As a subsidiary of RSBG SE, a holding company of the German group RAG-Stiftung, it plays a key role in prime sectors such as transportation infrastructure, water and environment, innovative planning, architecture and urban development, energy and industry and development cooperation.-TradeArabia News Service Diriyah Company, a dynamic mixed-use developer transforming Saudi Arabia's historic birthplace into a vibrant new capital of culture, has awarded a contract worth SAR426 million ($114 million) to Omrania, a subsidiary of Egis Group, for its Boulevard District project. As per the deal, Omrania will apply its globally renowned expertise to serve as the multidisciplinary design consultant behind a range of beautifully designed buildings in three community areas within Diriyahs iconic Boulevard District. This flagship district will become a major focal point for the $63.2 billion Diriyah project and provide connectivity across multiple areas within Diriyahs comprehensive master plans. Omranias scope of work includes concept design, schematic design, detailed design and construction supervision within these community areas located in and around the Boulevard District. Announcing the contract award, Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: "Diriyah Company is delighted to have selected Omrania, one of Saudi Arabias most innovative and forward-thinking architecture and engineering firms, for this project. Their contemporary designs have significantly shaped Riyadhs skyline, exemplified by iconic structures like the Kingdom Center." "We look forward to leveraging their exceptional expertise to create vibrant communities in The City of Earth, establishing a new destination for people to live, work, and play," he stated. Alaa AbuSiam, the Regional CEO of Egis Middle East & South Asia, said: "We are proud to have been given this opportunity to contribute towards the architecture and design of a high-profile, sustainable community within one of Saudi Arabias, and the worlds, most exciting and dynamic urban development projects." "As a Saudi company, Omrania is looking forward to applying their expertise in designing places that will inspire future generations while preserving the essence of Saudi Arabia's architectural heritage," stated AbuSiam. Diriyah Company said it has significantly accelerated its development programme through securing major agreements for large-scale projects within the 14-sq km development area with key contracts awarded to other contractors. Its recent contract award includes a $1.55 billion deal inked in November last year for the development of Qurain Cultural District; a $2 billion contract in July for the design and construction of assets in Diriyahs Northern District and another $2 billion contract for the construction of four luxury hotels and the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club in Wadi Safar. These contracts further highlight Diriyahs progress and ongoing commitment to its ambitious development plans, it added.-TradeArabia News Service The total value of non-oil exports (national origin) from Bahrain increased by 7% to reach BD319 million ($846.38 million) in November 2024, compared to BD299 million for same month in 2023. The value of the kingdoms non-oil imports increased by 5% reaching to BD478 million in November 2024 in comparison with BD454 million for same month in 2023, said the November 2024 Foreign Trade report released by the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA). Bahrains trade balance, which represents the difference between exports and imports, recorded a deficit of BD93 million in November 2024 compared to a deficit of BD81 million in November 2023, the report said. IMPORTS About 72% of the total value of imports was accounted for by top 10 countries for imports. China ranked first for imports to Bahrain, with a total of BD73 million (15%), followed by Australia with BD53 million (11%) and the United Arab Emirates with 38 million (8%). Other Aluminum Oxide recorded as the top product imported to Bahrain with a total value of BD50 million (10%), followed by Non-Agglomerated Iron Ores and Concentrates with BD43 million (9%) and Parts for Aircraft Engines being the third with BD19 million (4%). EXPORTS The top 10 countries in exports (national origin) accounted for 73% of the exports value. Saudi Arabia ranked first among countries with BD66 million (21%); the US was second with BD56 million (18%) and The Netherlands was third with BD20 million (6%). Unwrought aluminum alloys recorded as the top products exported in November 2024 amounting to BD101 million (32%), followed by agglomerated iron ores and concentrates alloyed with a value of BD30 million (9%) and unwrought aluminum not alloyed worth BD24 million (8%). The total value of non-oil re-exports decreased by 11% to reach BD66 million during November 2024, compared to BD74 million for same month in 2023. The top 10 countries for re-exports accounted for 83% of the re-exported value. The UAE ranked first with BD20 million (30%) followed by Saudi Arabia with BD15 million (23%) and the UK with BD5 million (8%). As per the report, turbo jet was the top product re-exported from Bahrain with a value of BD10 million (15%), followed by four-wheel drive vehicles at BD8 million (12%), and gold ingots worth BD4 million (6%). - TradeArabia News Service Schutz, one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial packaging, has signed a licence agreement with National Plastic Factory Company (NPF) for production of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) in Saudi Arabia. The move is aimed at ensuring the supply of certified Schutz IBCs to the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula, said the company in a statement. Established in Riyadh in 1976, NPF is one of the leading manufacturers of plastic packaging in Saudi Arabia, including drums and jerrycans. As per the deal, NPF will produce Ecobulk IBCs with a filling volume of 1,000 litres for the Saudi market and the entire GCC region. A state-of-the-art factory will be built in the east of the country near the strategic port city of Dammam. The IBCs are produced on original Schutz machines and equipment. Schutz will supply NPF with the steel and plastic components required for further processing, such as tubes for the IBC cage, screw caps and outlet valves. With this partnership, Schutz is expanding its global IBC production network into the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula, tapping into a very dynamic market. From its two modern production plants in the capital, the ISO 9001-certified NPF caters to a wide range of industries at home and abroad. One of the major export ports on the Arabian Gulf, Dammam is a central hub for the Saudi Arabian oil industry. The construction of a new, state-of-the-art production facility nearby ensures the future regional supply of Schutz Ecobulk IBCs, it stated. These containers provide a complete solution for filling companies in the chemical, oil and lubricants industries, as well as other sectors such as the food industry. Future customers will benefit from the shortest delivery times and the highest product quality, it added.-TradeArabia News Service DP World has announced that it has achieved a historic milestone, surpassing 100 million TEUs of container handling capacity across its global portfolio since inception. The achievement is a testament to over $11 billion in strategic investments and infrastructure development over the last decade. It puts DP World at the forefront of global trade, allowing the company to support customers as they grow their business and provide end-to-end supply chain solutions, said the company in a statement. Over the past 10 years, DP Worlds capacity has grown 33%, driven primarily by expansions and new greenfield developments as well as acquisitions. Starting with 75.6 million TEUs in 2014, the company has consistently invested in modernising infrastructure to meet the demands of an evolving global supply chain, it added. The companys global gross container handling capacity rose by 5% in the last 12 months, giving it a robust platform to extend its reach into the supply chain. The expansion cements DP Worlds 9.2% share of the global container market and demonstrates its commitment to invest in the markets it operates while offering increased capacity to its customers and partners. On the key milestone, Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem said: "Crossing the 100 million TEU mark is a momentous milestone in our journey, which began 45 years ago. This achievement reflects our commitment to investing in world-class ports and logistics infrastructure to make trade flow." "We are confident that the global container market will continue to grow in the years ahead and we will have the capacity to service it," he stated. Global container throughput is expected to grow by 2.8% this year, according to Drewry Container Forecaster. DP World brings together infrastructure, multimodal transportation and logistics services to connect businesses to their customers, with completely new ports at Ndayane in Senegal and Tuna-Tekre in India currently in progress. "Through our decades of experience operating in some of the most dynamic markets in the world, we have gained a deep understanding of every aspect of the complex global supply chain. This allows us to build customised solutions where others can only see obstacles," he added. Tiemen Meester, COO, Ports & Terminals, DP World, said: "Reaching such an impressive milestone is significant for us, but its what that figure represents in terms of the flow of global trade and what it has enabled in the markets we have invested in that is really exciting." "Over the last 20 years we have invested in ports and terminals across the world, often in less traditional and underdeveloped trade markets, where our socio-economic impact has been significant," stated Meester. "One of the major highlights of 2024 has been our takeover of the Dar es Salaam facility in Tanzania, which has not been developed since the 1950s, with vessel waiting times of sometimes more than a month. Our work there in the last six months has almost eradicated that issue and the future looks a lot brighter for Tanzanian trade," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Saudi Arabia reveals a robust 44% growth in domestic bookings in 2024, marking a significant contribution (over 40%) to the overall travel landscape in the kingdom. The kingdom's rapidly growing and evolving tourism offerings continue to shape domestic travel behaviour, and with an expanding range of destinations, unique accommodations, and diverse experiences, travellers are motivated to explore their country for leisure, says the report. Family and group bookings have emerged as a key growth driver of domestic tourism, with over 70% growth across these traveller segments. Travel groups are increasingly choosing destinations that offer event-based and experience-rich travel opportunities. While iconic cities such as Makkah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Madinah remain central to travel plans, emerging destinations are becoming increasingly popular. Abhas cool climate and mountain views, Al Jubails pristine beaches, Jizans coastal charm, Tabuks dramatic natural landscapes, and Hails adventurous desert terrain are rapidly gaining traction. These rising hotspots reflect the Kingdoms ongoing investment in tourism infrastructure, opening up exciting opportunities for leisure travellers, it said. The report further highlighted a significant shift in traveller preferences regarding accommodation. While luxury stays dominate, with 36% of room nights booked in 5-star accommodations, budget-friendly stays in 3-star and below properties have significantly increased, representing 35% of all booked room nights. Notably, this segment has witnessed a remarkable 100% growth in volume for families and groups, reflecting a rising trend of value-conscious group travel. Alternative accommodations such as vacation rentals and hotel apartments have also gained popularity, offering flexibility and affordability. Family bookings in these accommodations surged by 90% and group bookings grew by 60%, as alternative accommodations have become more widely available throughout the Kingdom and travellers opt for convenient stays, especially for larger groups. The report also highlights a continued demand for low-cost airline travel, driven by increased capacity, expanded connectivity, and the growing number of routes and slots offered by low-cost carriers. This has made low-cost airlines more accessible and appealing to budget-conscious travellers. While flight segments have increased by 45% overall, the average order value (AOV) has decreased by 7%, reflecting the impact of these expanded options for securing cost-effective deals. Activities In-destination activities have remained a core aspect of travel value, with guided tours, adventure sports, and cultural experiences integral to trip itineraries. These activities enhance overall satisfaction and foster meaningful engagement with local communities, reinforcing the value of immersive travel experiences. The range and offering of domestic activities have significantly expanded, catering to diverse interests and preferences and travellers now have more options than ever before. People actively embrace this growing variety, seeking experiences that align with their passions and creating richer, more personalized travel memories. Regarding the preferred booking methods, in 2024, app bookings surged by 67%, securing a 76% share of total bookings and underscoring the growing reliance on mobile platforms. Web bookings followed with a 17% share, reflecting a 7% growth in volume. Meanwhile, while representing a smaller 7% share, retail bookings continue to play a valuable role in serving travellers with more complex bookings and, on average, higher-value bookings, as they prefer in-person assistance and personalized support. Thus, they maintain their relevance in an increasingly digital landscape. Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO of Almosafer, stated: These travel trends align seamlessly with the government's vision to enhance in-destination value and increase domestic tourism as part of Vision 2030. The growth of domestic tourism and the rise of family and group trips, with a focus on unique accommodation experiences and rich in-destination activities, showcases the success of the national agenda of building a thriving leisure tourism sector that contributes significantly to the economy. Almosafer plays an integral role in powering the local ecosystem through innovative booking platforms, tailored travel packages, and flexible payment solutions. We remain committed to empowering travellers while contributing to the broader goals of economic diversification and sustainable tourism growth. TradeArabia News Service Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net. A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band. AN unused piece of equipment intended for NiQuan Energy Trinidad Ltds operations is among several assets now up for sale by the receiver, just after the seventh anniversary of the gas-to-liquid plants grand opening. The unused FT Max Catalyst-T 2811, weighing 231,000 pounds and used in gas-to-liquids (GTL) processes, is being sold by receiver manager Varune Mungal. FOR nearly two years, one of the chief financiers of the Seven gang based in the United King Former Pima County deputy administrator and chief medical officer Dr. Francisco Garcia was named chief of staff for the University of Arizonas president Monday. UA President Suresh Garimella announced the appointment while highlighting Garcias work creating teams and processes that enabled organizational success for units providing services through Pima County. I will depend on Dr. Garcias abilities and partnership as the university community begins an effort to shape, communicate and implement a shared vision for our service to the state of Arizona, Garimella said in a news release Monday. Garcias position as chief of staff to the president is newly created, combining two former senior administrative roles that will not be filled, said UA spokesperson Mitch Zak. Zak said the new position includes responsibilities previously managed by Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff Jon Dudas and Vice President Craig Henderson. Dudas has retired and Henderson will retire from the UA on Jan. 10. Garcia will be paid $300,000 a year. Dudas salary, by contrast, was $472,570 while Hendersons was $293,543, Zak confirmed. Garcias responsibilities will include supervising the staff of Garimellas office, being the primary liaison with the Arizona Board of Regents, and coordinating work among members of Garimellas senior team. Garimella joined the UA, which is dealing with a budget deficit, on Oct. 1, 2024. President Garimella is the bold leader that the future of the University of Arizona needs at this time. It is an honor to work with him and his leadership team, Garcia said in the UAs news release Monday. The U of A has immense strengths in its amazing faculty, staff and students, and our role as administrators is to enable their success. I have seen the universitys positive impact both as a faculty member and community partner, and I very much look forward to contributing to its future success. Garcia studied at the UA, receiving his bachelor of science in psychology and doctor of medicine degrees there. He also served as a distinguished outreach professor emeritus in public health and obstetrics and gynecology for 19 years. In Garcias former role as deputy Pima County administrator from 2019 to Jan. 3 this year, his responsibilities included overseeing the Health Department, the Pima County Library System, the Department of Environmental Quality and the Pima Animal Care Center. His most notable achievement was his leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Pima County news release in December announcing his departure. Elected a fellow of the National Academy of Medicine in 2023, Garcia is an expert in public health preparedness, border health and womens reproductive health. He has also served as a member of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Board of Scientific Counselors, after being appointed by the Department of Health and Human Services secretary. 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. Tucson Water appears likely to build the region's first plant to treat wastewater for drinking by the early 2030s, as part of a pending deal with the federal government to pay $86 million for plant construction in return for the city's willingness to further reduce its take of Colorado River water. The plant, slated for the metro areas northwest side, would provide only a small portion of the citys total drinking water supply but it could lead to more and bigger such projects in the future if successful, utility officials say. The Tucson City Council will vote Tuesday night on whether to accept the agreement negotiated by the water utility and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, under which the bureau would pay the city up to $86.7 million to build the treatment plant on the northwest side before 2032. In return, the city would agree to leave about 56,000 acre-feet of its Central Arizona Project water supply in Lake Mead over a decade. The item is on the City Councils consent agenda, which is reserved for routine items likely to pass. The meeting begins at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 7 in the mayor and councils chambers at City Hall, 255 W. Alameda St. The treatment plant would convert about 2.5 million gallons a day of treated wastewater from the Pima County-run Tres Rios wastewater plant into drinkable water. That 2.5 million gallons represents between 2% and 5% of the citys total drinking water supply, said Tucson Water Director John Kmiec. The northwest side area was chosen for the plant location in part because those residents have lost a major portion of their local supply due to the shutdown of a number of drinking wells in that area due to contamination by the forever chemicals known as PFAS compounds, Kmiec said. We want to be able to still create local water there, Kmiec said Monday. Now, most water there is pushed north from the rest of the city. Recycled wastewater from the Tres Rios plant is now dumped into the Santa Cruz River, where it eventually leaves the Tucson area by flowing downstream into Pinal County, he said. Theres lost water to the community that is not being fully taken advantage of, Kmiec said. By keeping it local, it allows us to use a drop of water more than once. At the same time, the diversion of river water for this treatment plant wont appreciably diminish the rivers existing flows that nourish a major riparian area along the river banks, Kmiec said. The potential loss of river water for riparian uses such as cottonwoods and willows has long been a major concern of many environmentalists about the prospect of large-scale wastewater treatment for drinking. The CAP water savings that the city would accept in return for federal money to build the wastewater plant would be on top of 110,000 acre-feet of CAP water Tucson has already agreed to leave in the lake for calendar years 2023, 2024 and 2025 in return for additional compensation. Another part of the agreement to be voted on Tuesday night would put the city on the hook for leaving another 50,000-acre feet of CAP water in the lake in return for another $20 million in federal funding. Until these cuts were made, the city was using about 100,000 acre-feet of CAP water a year. This project, if proven successful, could be the first of more wastewater-for-drinking treatment plants in the future, city officials say. The citys One Water long-range water plan, adopted about a year ago, called for the utility to build small, pilot wastewater-for-drinking projects as a possible preview for building a larger plant to serve water for more people. Around the West, many cities including Phoenix and Scottsdale now are actively studying or planning to build wastewater-to-drinking plants as a way of replacing other supplies such as groundwater and Colorado River water that have diminished in recent years due to drought and over-pumping. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality adopted regulations last year authorizing local entities to treat wastewater for drinking via a method known as direct potable reuse. Our stakeholders want to make sure we are optimizing the use of our effluent resources, Kmiec said. It is definitely the first step. Its a small project. Thats why we were willing to work out a deal with the bureau. One hundred years from now, there could be much larger projects. Its diversifying our communitys water resource portfolio. Alberta Chu initially thought Herculean Chicken would be a hobby, just something to do to keep her weekends busy. Shed pop up at a local bar, serve the customers some crispy, juicy popcorn chicken and then head home. It would be a low-key, chill vibe. But by her first event, that easy, laid-back idea was immediately thrown out the window. Her friend had encouraged her to apply to the Asian District Night Market in Mesa. Since it was her first event, her husband and best friends came to help, not knowing what to expect. For the whole night, Chus new Taiwanese fried chicken stand had a long line of hungry customers, ready to indulge in the crunchy goodness she was cooking up. Now, you cant go to a festival in Arizona without seeing people walk around with brown bags filled to the top with bite-size pieces of chicken or giant, funky-shaped cutlets covered in a crispy outer shell. Herculean Chicken has taken the state by storm and when it comes to Chus chicken, her customers are anything but laid-back. Before making her way to Tucson, Chu grew up in Taiwan where she remembers frequently going to night markets and street fairs. The lively markets were filled with bustling people chowing down on delicious food, with some of the popular items being fried chicken cutlets and popcorn chicken. The night market culture and the street food culture was something that I kind of grew up being familiar with and obviously made quite an impression on me, Chu said. In 2018, Chu moved to Phoenix where she became immersed in the food scene. She was a social media foodie, meeting lots of people in the food industry, specifically small, local food vendors. Thats when food tents began to pique her interest. People who owned food stands were able to pop up anywhere to share a taste of their culture with curious customers. They didnt have to deal with rent or truck issues, they just had to set up, serve food and go home. The gears inside Chus head began turning. There arent many places in Arizona that offer authentic Taiwanese fried chicken like she had in her childhood. It was up to her to bring some of the magic from Taiwanese street markets to the Southwest. She enrolled in Local First Arizonas restaurant boot camp, learning all the ins and outs of starting a small food business. After taking the course, she moved to Tucson and applied for her very first market. Herculean Chicken was up and running by 2022. After working through the chaos of the Asian District Night Market, everything else coasted by smoothly. For the first year, we really didnt do too many events, Chu said. The second year, we started doing more events. And (in 2024), being our third year, we have just done more and more events. I think thats the biggest way that we have grown. In 2024, Herculean Chicken was everywhere. From Innings Fest in Phoenix to Made in Tucson on Fourth Avenue, youd see people with bags jam-packed with mouthwatering chicken, walking with a smile on their face. Now, this isnt your average KFC fried chicken. Unlike American or Korean fried chicken, Taiwanese fried chicken is made with sweet potato starch and topped with a dry seasoning, giving it a unique texture. For their cutlets, Chu first filets a chicken breast and marinates it. Once its soaked up all the yummy marinade, she coats it in egg and sweet potato starch. Now, its ready to toss in the fryer to get its crunchy, golden outer shell. Finally, its topped off with flavorful dry seasoning that includes flavors like white pepper. In the end, youre served served a delicious, flavorful piece of chicken like youve never had before. One bite and youre transported from the hot desert to the bright, buzzing street markets in Taiwan. Popcorn chicken and the cutlets are the main menu items, but Chu has done everything from fried chicken sandwiches to ramen-crusted chicken breasts. Customers ask me, what was your breading? Chu said. I tell them its sweet potato starch and theyre like, oh my God! So, I think people do comment on the uniqueness, like, I never tasted something like this before. Most importantly, Herculean Chicken allows Chu to bring a little piece of her hometown to Arizona. While people are familiar with boba and milk teas, she likes bringing something to the table that many of us have never tried before. As for other types of Taiwanese food, theres just not a lot of options in Arizona, Chu said. Since the street food and night market culture in Taiwan is so big, I really enjoy taking a part of that and bringing it here. So the next time you see the coveted Herculean Chicken stand, youll want to wait in the long line. Check out instagram.com/herculeanchicken to see where theyll be next. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training has provided guidelines for a break during the upcoming 2025 Lunar New Year holiday. The Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet, is the biggest festival of the year for Vietnamese. In late November 2024, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh ratified a nine-day break for the Tet celebration, spanning from January 25 to February 2. As per its guidance document, the municipal education department extended the break to 11 days from January 23 to February 2 for K-12 schools. The municipal department tasked these schools with proactively mapping out a detailed plan to ensure students can grasp sufficient lessons and take enough tests before and after the holiday. The principals of schools were asked to create favorable conditions and reasonably handle all problems for non-resident students so that they can fully enjoy a Tet break. Ho Tan Minh, chief of the office of the municipal department, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on December 13 that the extended break was designed to allow students to participate in a traditional pre-Tet festival for tending graves with their families. For students accompanying their parents back to their hometowns for the Tet celebration and wishing for additional days off, principals have the flexibility to accommodate them. However, Minh emphasized that students must ensure they do not miss any lessons or tests. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Achieving high scores in the IELTS exam can be a daunting task for many Vietnamese learners, with speaking and writing often cited as the most challenging skills. Two English education experts, Ha Dang Nhu Quynh and Tran Anh Khoa from DOL English, shared their insights on these difficulties and the strategies to overcome them. Both of them have recently scored a perfect 9.0 out of 9.0 on the IELTS test, a rare accomplishment in Vietnam that underscores their expertise in the English proficiency exam. Speaking: A matter of practice and reflex Quynh emphasized the lack of opportunities to practice speaking as a significant barrier. Many learners dont have access to native speakers or proficient English speakers to correct their mistakes, making it hard to identify areas for improvement, she explained. Moreover, speaking requires quick reflexes and a deep mastery of language, as there is no time to deliberate during conversation. Khoa echoed similar sentiments, adding that the Vietnamese education system, particularly in public schools, often does not allocate sufficient time for speaking practice. Speaking demands quick reflexes developed through consistent practice, which isnt always prioritized in the curriculum, he noted. Tran Anh Khoa aspires to help his students achieve their own high IELTS scores. Writing: From lengthy essays to precise arguments For writing, both experts pointed out the stark differences between IELTS essays and traditional Vietnamese essay formats. In schools, students are taught to write lengthy and narrative-driven essays. But in IELTS, you have just 40 minutes to craft a concise, well-structured argument, Khoa remarked. He suggested using the Linearthinking method to maintain focus and avoid digressions. Quynh identified writing as the most challenging skill for her personally, especially in breaking into higher bands like 8.0 or 8.5. Her solution? Understand the IELTS scoring criteria and avoid vague, generic ideas. Linearthinking helps me break down questions into specific aspects, allowing for deeper ideas and topic-specific vocabulary, she said. Ha Dang Nhu Quynh (C) hopes to normalize high IELTS scores of 8.0 or above for Vietnamese learners. Mastering reading in record time Both experts revealed that they complete the reading section of the IELTS test in under 20 minutes. Instead of relying on traditional skim-and-scan techniques, they use methods rooted in Linearthinking, such as simplification and identifying connections between ideas. This allows me to grasp the main points quickly, even in complex texts, Quynh said. Khoa insisted on prioritizing key information in sentences while skipping unnecessary details. This strategy improves efficiency without requiring a word-for-word understanding, he explained. Role of Linearthinking Developed by Le Dinh Luc, a math major turned English educator, Linearthinking applies logical structures to learning English. Both experts praised its effectiveness across all four skills reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It addresses common issues Vietnamese learners face, such as translating directly from Vietnamese or blending Vietnamese grammar with that of the English language, Quynh said. Ha Dang Nhu Quynh is an academic director at DOL English. Advice for English teachers in AI era With AI tools becoming more prevalent, Quynh highlighted the importance of integrating technology into teaching. AI can streamline material creation and grading, but teachers need to design thoughtful prompts and exercises, she said. Khoa encouraged teachers to embrace creativity and innovation. Instead of replicating what others are doing, find new ways to leverage AI to address specific challenges in your teaching, he advised. Vision for future Quynh hopes to normalize high IELTS scores of 8.0 or above for Vietnamese learners. Meanwhile, Khoa aspires to help his students achieve their own high scores, believing that personal success is most meaningful when it inspires others. With these expert insights and strategies, Vietnamese IELTS candidates can approach their preparation with greater clarity and confidence. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! What you need to know in Vietnam today: Politics -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a high-ranking delegation will visit Laos and co-chair the 47th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee from January 9 to 10 at the invitation of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, the Vietnam News Agency reported, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Society -- The administration in Ho Chi Minh City has established a steering committee for rearranging the citys apparatus led by chairman Phan Van Mai. -- Police in north-central Thanh Hoa Province said on Monday that they had coordinated with relevant agencies to arrest six suspects who stole some 250 dogs weighing nearly four metric tons from December 2024. -- The third and most complex component of the Long Thanh International Airport project in southern Dong Nai Province, which includes the passenger terminal and runways, is unlikely to be completed by December 31 this year as planned, according to the Ministry of Transport. -- Nearly 60 experts, scientists, and young researchers from 16 countries and territories are in Quy Nhon City, south-central Binh Dinh Province to attend the conference 'Theory Meets Experiment: Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology,' which lasts until Saturday. -- The number of passengers riding the first metro line in Ho Chi Minh City in the first two weeks of its official operation was 300 percent higher than the expected figure, according to the Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway No. 1 Company Limited the operator of the line. The metro line began operations on December 22 last year. Lifestyle -- Hanoi will host a music and drone light show featuring 2,025 drones at the intersection of Nguyen Hoang Ton and Lac Long Quan Streets in Tay Ho District on January 18 to welcome the 2025 new year, the municipal administration said on Monday. Education -- Chairman of the administration in Chu Prong District, Gia Lai Province dismissed the principal of a local middle school as he committed various violations, including unauthorized absence from the school for over one month. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Da Nang, the capital city of central Vietnam, will welcome the Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet, with fireworks displays at three venues in Hai Chau, Lien Chieu, and Hoa Vang Districts. The municipal Peoples Committee on Tuesday announced its plan to hold pyrotechnic shows to usher in the Lunar New Year, which begins on January 29. The city did not set off fireworks for the New Year celebration. However, for the Tet celebration, high-altitude and low-altitude pyrotechnic shows will be let off for 15 minutes at 0:00 on January 29. These fireworks displays, set to take place on Bach Dang Street, near the administration center of Lien Chieu District and at a resettlement area in Hoa Vang District, will feature 1,950 high-altitude pyrotechnics and 90 low-altitude setups. Da Nang City annually organizes the International Fireworks Festival during the peak travel season. The 12th edition of the festival in 2024 attracted seven international pyrotechnic teams from France, Italy, the U.S., Germany, Poland, China, and Finland, along with a team from Da Nang. The event took place from June to July last year, drawing the sheer number of local and international tourists to the coastal city. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Ho Chi Minh City requires a total investment of over US$24 billion for key projects to achieve an economic growth rate of at least 10 percent in 2025, the city leader has said. Chairman of the Peoples Committee Phan Van Mai made the statement while attending a signing ceremony for a cooperation agreement between the Ho Chi Minh City State Financial Investment Company (HFIC) and nine major banks on Monday. The agreement is aimed at mobilizing funds for socio-economic and infrastructure development projects in the city to meet its development goals, including a gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate of 10 percent or higher. The nine banks include Vietcombank, VietinBank, BIDV, Agribank, VPBank, MB, ACB, Sacombank, and Saigonbank. Addressing the ceremony, chairman Mai affirmed that the metropolis needs to mobilize a total of about VND620 trillion ($24.4 billion) in 2025, the highest-ever yearly figure, to reach its development targets. Of the figure, VND110 trillion ($4.3 billion) will come from public investments, while VND510 trillion ($20.1 billion) will be provided by sources outside the state budget, such as bank loans, foreign direct investment, and overseas remittances. Chairman Mai underscored that the city has set a GRDP growth target of 9-10 percent for the 2026-30 period and will need funding worth at least VND4,400 trillion ($173.3 billion) for these five years. According to a directive by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, this figure may amount to VND5,000 trillion (nearly $197 billion), Mai said, adding that banks will continue to be the driving force behind the growth. Under the agreement, the HFIC and these lenders will join hands to fund priority projects through syndicated loans, said Truong Tuan Anh, general director of HFIC. They will also invest in central government bonds, arrange the issue of municipal bonds, and research and implement proper capital mobilizaion mechanisms. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Japan's prime minister on Monday urged Washington to dispel concerns that a decision by Joe Biden to block Nippon Steel's takeover of US Steel could impact future investments. The US President's announcement last week cited a strategic need to protect domestic industry, a move that drew sharp criticism from both companies and Tokyo. A US government panel had failed to reach consensus on whether the $14.9 billion acquisition threatened national security, shifting the decision to Biden in the waning days of his presidency. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said the veteran Democrat's decision had sparked worries 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," Ishiba told reporters. "It's something we have to take seriously." 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... but we will strongly call on the US government to take steps to dispel these concerns," said Ishiba. "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," he added. Nippon Steel reportedly plans to hold a news conference on Tuesday, when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will also be visiting Japan following a trip to South Korea. Biden's decision followed extended wrangling over competing domestic political, economic and trade demands. The outgoing president -- who made the rebuilding of the US manufacturing base a major goal of his administration -- had criticised the deal for months, while holding off on a move that could hurt ties with Tokyo. "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," Biden said on Friday. The United Steelworkers union welcomed the announcement, describing it as "bold action to maintain a strong domestic steel industry". But Nippon Steel and US Steel said the outcome reflected "a clear violation of due process and the law" and Japan's industry minister described it as "incomprehensible". Nippon Steel had touted the takeover as a lifeline for a US company that is long past its heyday, but opponents warned that the Japanese owners would slash jobs. The decision to block the deal enjoyed rare bipartisan agreement. Republican President-elect Donald Trump and his incoming vice president had also campaigned against the sale. But the US Chamber of Commerce noted that investment from the country's "important and reliable ally" Japan supports nearly one million American jobs. "The decision also could have a chilling effect on international investment in America," it warned. Even without the US Steel acquisition, Nippon Steel should still be able to meet its mid-term annual production targets, said SBI Securities analyst Ryunosuke Shibata. "Nippon Steel may have other opportunities in the future to buy a US firm" or to invest in the United States to have a production base there, Shibata told AFP. "There won't be a significant change in Nippon Steel's growth strategy of investing in the United States and continuing to build up production capacity in India." Keizai Doyukai, one of Japan's three major business groups, noted that protectionist trade policies were likely to heighten under the Trump administration. "In areas related to economic security, we should strengthen cooperation with like-minded countries such as South Korea, Australia, the Philippines, and India, so as not to become completely dependent on the United States," it said. Police in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam have arrested six suspects who stole and sold approximately 250 dogs, weighing nearly four metric tons, in a single month starting early December. The police agency of Tho Xuan District on Monday announced the arrest of these six suspects, including Do Ngoc Duong, 30; Nguyen Van Phuong, 30; Trinh Dinh Tuan, 28; Nguy-en Tat Khoa, 28; Ha Xuan Huy, 37; all natives of Tho Xuan. Le Dinh Hung, 29, from Trieu Son District, was also arrested for buying stolen dogs. During the raid, police seized 19 live dogs weighing 323kg, two cats weighing 3.5kg, and tools used in the thefts. The gang confessed that they had stolen and sold an average of 200-250kg of dogs per night. The suspects also admitted to stealing around 250 dogs since early December, then selling them to Le Dinh Hung for profit. Police are expanding their investigation into this dog theft ring. Stolen dogs in a recently-busted dog theft ring in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam. Photo: Supplied Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Back Roads returns to ABC for its 11th season. In Roxby Downs and Andamooka SA, Heather Ewart turns Valkyrie, as she discovers how the locals make their own fun. Heather Ewart heads to the South Australian outback to check out two mining towns that are chalk and cheese Roxby Downs and its unruly cousin, Andamooka. These towns are just 30 kilometres apart but seem worlds away from each other. Andamooka is a frontier opal mining town that evolved with barely any rules or regulations, but tons of character. It carries an unmistakable whiff of the Wild West. Heather meets local identity Cal the Stoner, who moved from Melbourne to Andamooka to devote himself to his art. Cals stone sculpture The Andamooka Tiger was years in the making and is now on the tourist trail. Heathers mind boggles at Cals tales of playing heavy rock to birds in his garden and she winds up at an impromptu party in his psychedelic bar. Nearby Roxby Downs was only built in the 1980s to service BHPs vast Olympic Dam mine. On the surface, its a far neater and more orderly town, but Heather soon finds that the locals here also take pride in being different and making their own fun. Mine worker and artist Monte Clements makes elaborate costumes and invites Heather to model for a photo. The results are otherworldly! Thursday 9 January, 8pm on ABC. TCN News The demolition of Agras ancient Mubarak Manzil, a 17th-century Mughal heritage site, has sparked criticism and claims of complicity between officials and a builder. William Dalrymple, a Scottish historian and Indologist, has denounced the destruction of Mubarak Manzil, a 17th-century Mughal cultural monument in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. He described it as an appalling negligence of Indias heritage and the primary cause of the nations inability to draw foreign tourists in spite of its rich cultural history. Support TwoCircles Over 100 tractors of rubble were removed from the site. The demolition took place only three months after the state archaeological department nominated the monument for protection. As the home of important Mughal leaders, Mubarak Manzil, sometimes called Aurangzebs Haveli, had great historical significance. During British control, it was altered, becoming a salt office, a customs house, and by 1902, Tara Niwas. In a notice recommending Mubarak Manzils protection, the state archaeological department asked for objections within a month. But soon after their arrival, destruction began, turning the historic building into rubble. Despite protests and the existence of a nearby police outpost, locals allege that a constructor, working with police and administrative officials, carried out the destruction. Locals were irate, saying that even after making several complaints, nothing was done and the demolition went on, destroying 70% of the building. Locals, historians, and political officials have all voiced their strong opposition to the demolition of Mubarak Manzil. The uproar has been joined by politicians. The act was criticized by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav. The Center wants to make tourism a $1 trillion ecosystem with 100 million foreign visitors by 2047, but neglecting heritage sites undermines this goal, stated Shakeel Chauhan, national general secretary of the Tourist Guide Federation of India. Mubarak Manzil is not a single incident. Agra has also seen the destruction of other locations, including Shahi Hammam, Zohra Bagh, and buildings from the Lodhi era. Indias reputation as a travel destination is further damaged by reports of water leaks at the Taj Mahal and damage to 400-year-old paintings at Akbars Tomb. Aravind Mallappa Bangari, the district magistrate of Agra, said the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the revenue department are working on an investigation. No more alterations are permitted on the site, the SDM has been invited to visit and submit a report. HA NOI Despite a 5.1 per cent drop in export volume, Viet Nams pepper industry recorded a 45.4 per cent increase in export turnover in 2024, reaching nearly US$1.4 billion, according to the Viet Nam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA). In December 2024, Viet Nam exported 15,265 tonnes of pepper of all types, including 12,771 tonnes of black pepper and 2,494 tonnes of white pepper, generating a total turnover of $100.6 million. Compared to November, export volume decreased by 4.3 per cent, while turnover fell by 5.5 per cent. The average export prices stood at $6,476 per tonne for black pepper and $8,198 per tonne for white pepper, a slight decline from the previous month. The US remained the largest market for Viet Nams pepper, accounting for 29.5 per cent of Decembers exports with 4,509 tonnes, despite an 11.4 per cent decline compared to November. Olam Viet Nam was the leading exporter for the month, contributing 2,551 tonnes, followed by Nedspice and Phuc Sinh. Over the past year, Viet Nam exported 250,600 tonnes of pepper, including 220,269 tonnes of black pepper and 30,331 tonnes of white pepper. The total export turnover reached $1.3 billion, with black pepper contributing $1.1 billion and white pepper $200.6 million. Despite a decrease in export volume compared to 2023, the significant surge in turnover was attributed to higher export prices. Black pepper prices averaged $5,154 per tonne, a 49.7 per cent increase, while white pepper reached $6,884 per tonne, up 38.9 per cent. The price increases reflect the country's efforts to improve the quality and brand image of its pepper in recent years, making the switch to producing high-quality, premium-priced products. The United States imported a record-breaking 72,311 tonnes of pepper in 2024, marking a 33.2 per cent increase from 2023 and accounting for 28.9 per cent of Viet Nams total exports. Other key markets included the UAE, Germany and the Netherlands, all showing strong growth, while exports to India and China experienced notable declines. On the import side, Viet Nam bought 36,727 tonnes of pepper in 2024, valued at $176.2 million, representing increases of 38.4 per cent in volume and 99.5 per cent in value compared to 2023. Indonesia was the leading supplier, providing 17,194 tonnes, a 431.2 per cent surge from the previous year. Olam Viet Nam emerged as the top performer in exports and imports in 2024, exporting 27,800 tonnes and 12,462 tonnes. Other major exporters included Phuc Sinh, Nedspice Viet Nam and Haprosimex JSC. VNS HA NOI The National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee on Tuesday morning discussed the plan on supervising the implementation of policies and laws on environmental protection since the Law on Environmental Protection 2020 took effect. According to the proposed plan, agencies under supervision will include the Government, ministries in the fields of Natural Resources and Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development, Construction, Transport, Finance, Planning and Investment, Industry and Trade, Health, Public Security, National Defence, people's committees of 63 provinces and cities, along with other relevant organisations. The supervision scope covers the environmental protection policies and laws nationwide from the effective date of the Law on Environmental Protection, until the end of last year, but also related to prior years and what is to follow. The supervision focuses on the promulgation and completion of policies and laws on environmental protection, the National Environmental Protection Strategy establishment and appraisal. In addition, the supervision plan also includes monitoring the implementation of policies and laws on environmental protection, focusing on assessing some key contents such as the arrangement and use of resources for environmental protection, integrating those protections into national environmental protection planning, regional planning and provincial planning. The checks also cover the preparation, appraisal and approval of strategic environmental assessment (SEA), environmental impact assessment (EIA) and environmental protection contents in planning. In addition it covers assessing pollution control activities, flood prevention in urban areas and waste management (including managing domestic solid waste, urban wastewater along with waste in agricultural, medical and construction activities). The supervision also looks at inspection, auditing, compliance with environmental protection laws and handling of violations, combating and preventing environmental crimes, developing the carbon market and exchanging forest carbon credits. The monitoring delegation will hold four plenary sessions and organise four direct monitoring delegations in 15 localities, including Ha Noi, HCM City, a Nang, Can Tho, Binh Duong, Long An, Tra Vinh, Hai Phong, Thai Nguyen, Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, Thanh Hoa, Quang Ngai, Binh Thuan and Lam ong. The monitoring period will be from the end of June to before July 31 this year. Discussion Through discussion, the NA Standing Committee members basically agreed with the draft supervision plan. Emphasising that after monitoring, there must be positive changes, NA Deputy Chairman Tran Quang Phuong suggested clearly identifying a number of key issues emerging nationwide, such as household waste pollution in craft villages, industrial parks, rivers, coastal areas, urban areas and at the same time forecasting electronic waste such as electric vehicles and solar panels. He said that since the Law on Environmental Protection 2020 took effect, environmental impact assessment has been cumbersome. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify administrative procedures and provide guidance on standards and regulations on this issue to resolve and speed up the projects. Speaking at the session, NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man said that the monitoring topic on "Implementing policies and laws on environmental protection since the Law on Environmental Protection 2020 took effect" was very accurate. Thus, the monitoring team must adhere to the main environmental indicators set forth in the 13th National Party Congress Resolution. Specifically, indicators on using clean water and hygienic water by urban and rural residents, urban solid waste collection and treatment rate that meets standards and regulations, the rate of industrial parks and export processing zones with wastewater treatment systems that meet environmental standards and the rate of establishments causing serious environmental pollution that were punished. The NA Chairman requested that the supervisory delegation must point out strengths and weaknesses, while conducting policies and laws on environmental protection, find out the causes of each violating unit and locality in environmental protection and accurately express aspirations of voters and people on environmental protection activities, along with proposing solutions to deal with urgent environmental issues in localities. He noted that the monitoring delegation must point out specific locations such as which units and localities have shortcomings in environmental protection, the responsibility of each agency at the central level, the NA, the Government, ministries and localities in carrying out policies and laws on environmental protection. VNS Hoang Lan Bau Trang jumping tiny shrimp salad, a specialty of Quang Tri Provinces Vinh Tu Village, is hugely appealing for foodies, including visitors and travellers to the province. Bau Trang, a small branch of the Thuy U Basin, is renowned nationwide. With a large water surface, Bau Trang offers a rich harvest and abundance of shrimp and fish, particularly jumping shrimps, the main ingredient to make the salad, said local Pham Thi Bang. The selection of ingredients to make the famous dish include many sorts of fresh herbs such as parsley, lemon, green mango, green pepper, chilli and garlic. But the humble lemon is the main ingredient, which not only helps to keep the shrimp soft, but also creates a special fragrance for the recipe, with a lovely tangy taste, to make the dish even more enjoyable, Bang said. Aside from the jumping shrimps, which come from rivers and canals, there are also tiny shrimps available in the fields from March to May. At these times, the shrimps are sweet, firm and fragrant. They can be cooked into a wide variety of tasty great dishes such as roasted tiny shrimp, tiny shrimp mixed with papaya salad and fermented shrimp. Asked about how to make the dish, Bang said the tiny shrimps need to be soaked in lightly salted water for five minutes and then the chef needs to squeeze lemon juice into the shrimp pot and quickly close the lid, so the shrimps can't escape. The final step is to get the shrimp out from the pot and stir them well with fresh herbs including the key one, parsley, fresh chilli and minced garlic, said Bang, noting that the recipe is even more enjoyable if diners put a spoonful of the tiny shrimp dish and herbs on rice paper, wrap up the parcel and dip it in a tasty great sauce made from mustard and soy sauce. Bang said foodies would never forget the wonderful combination of tastes. The spice of mustard rushing up your nose, followed by a mixed sweetness, the firmness of fresh tiny shrimps and the buttery taste of roasted peanut. She told Viet Nam News that many lovers of the dish became so addicted that they would eat it twice a day, if they could. Meanwhile, visitor Tran Vinh Doanh from Ha Noi said during his tour to Vinh Tu Villages Thuy U Basin, he went out with a local fisherman Le Van Thuong to experience netting the tiny shrimps to be able to enjoy the dish at home. Ive travelled through many water basins but I like Thuy U Basin the most because of its natural beauty, an extremely valuable treasure presented by the Earth. Thanks to many underground water sources, the basin is full of water year-round, said Doanh. I was so impressed with the tiny sshrims, with their crystal bodies. After touring the basin and netting the tiny sshrims, we returned to Thuongs home to enjoy the jumping shrimp dish salad made by his wife. We sipped the dish with a cup of wine. It was a perfect relaxing end to our day," he said. When VietKings in 2022 announced the top 100 specialties of Viet Nams 63 provinces and cities, the jumping tiny shrimp salad dish was on the list. VNS US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday urged a judge to delay the sentencing set for Friday in his New York hush money case, as he prepares for his historic White House return. Juan Merchan ruled last week that Trump's sentencing should go ahead despite the Republican tycoon's inauguration in two weeks, rejecting his argument that his election victory should spell an end to the case. Trump's attorneys said in a filing that they are appealing Merchan's ruling upholding Trump's conviction by a Manhattan jury and argued the judge must pause the case in the meantime. "By virtue of President Trump's filing of appellate proceedings raising his claims of presidential immunity, all proceedings in this court are automatically stayed by operation of federal constitutional law," Trump's legal team said. "In the alternative, even if such a stay were discretionary, the court should grant such a stay." The filing was made public as Trump set to be certified as the winner of the 2024 presidential election on Monday, four years after his supporters rioted at the US Capitol as he sought to overturn his 2020 defeat. Trump's lawyers asked Merchan to notify the parties by 2:00 pm (1900 GMT) whether he will cancel the sentencing and said they would be filing two appeals in state court. Trump, the first former president ever convicted of a crime, has been permitted to appear either in person or virtually on Friday. He was convicted in May of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election to stop her from revealing an alleged 2006 sexual encounter. Trump's attorneys had sought to have the case dismissed on multiple grounds, including the Supreme Court's landmark ruling last year that former US presidents have sweeping immunity from prosecution for a range of official acts committed while in office. In an 18-page decision, Merchan rejected the motions but noted that Trump will be immune from prosecution once he is sworn in as president. He said he was leaning towards giving Trump an unconditional discharge -- meaning the real estate tycoon would not only avoid the threat of jail, but would escape conditions of any kind. The sentence would nevertheless see Trump entering the White House as a convicted felon. The 78-year-old potentially faced up to four years in prison but legal experts -- even before he won the November presidential election -- did not expect Merchan to incarcerate him. HCM CITY New collections of ao dai (Vietnamese traditional long dress) by young designers are ready to serve the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, which falls on January 29. The collections are featured in brocade, linen, taffeta silk and satin. They include ao dai designs for women and men in vivid colours, such as banana green, light blue, red and lotus pink. Highlighted designs use patterns and materials that are created and made by ethnic people living in remote areas across the country. I want to highlight Vietnamese culture and lifestyle through my special designs of ao dai for Tet, said Quy Cao, winner of the Fashion Designer Contest at FashUP 2021 and founder of the QuyCao fashion brand. A native of Binh Thuan, Cao went on to become a self-taught fashion designer. He is familiar among young women, especially students. For the coming Tet, Cao offer a series of ao dai for young people and kids. He said he loves working with Vietnamese fabrics. Cao and other designers and local fashion brand names are offering ao dai in different styles and patterns, satisfying women and men who want traditional outfits for Tet. The clothes are made of voile and velvet, and have printed or embroidered patterns of flowers and cranes. A set of ao dai and a pair of silk trousers cost only VN500,000 (US$20) to VN800,000 ($32), depending on quality and design. Special and limited designs cost around VN2.5 million ($100). Designer Ha Thanh Viet offers a collection of eight designs of ao dai for women featuring Vietnamese folk culture. He has traveled many places and is inspired by remote areas and ethnic minority women. Each of his ao dai designs is linked to stories and dreams that young women want to tell and share to the world. In recent years, my customers, male and female, love to wear ao dai for visits to their relatives and friends and for posing during Tet, said Viet, who has five years in ao dai making. My online orders for ao dai are full these days, around three weeks before Tet. Ao Dai Museum One of HCM Citys famous tourist sites is the Ao Dai Museum, a place to share the history of the traditional long dress with foreign visitors and future generations. The museum has became a venue for celebrities and people who love posing with ao dai. It attracts 2,000 visitors on weekends. We are preparing to offer a series of cultural activities to attract visitors this Tet. Fashion shows featuring ao dai will be highlighted, said a representative of the museums managing board. Ao Dai Museum opened in 2014 and displays 500 ao dai designs dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries and their subsequent evolution. It displays ao dai owned by theatre icons such as Peoples Artists Kim Cuong and Bach Tuyet, considered gurus of cai luong (reformed opera). It also shows garments owned by national heroine Nguyen Thi inh, the first woman major general in the Viet Nam People's Army, and former deputy president Nguyen Thi Binh. Ao Dai Museum aims to introduce Vietnamese culture and lifestyle and increase peoples awareness of traditional costume, said veteran fashion designer Si Hoang, owner of the museum. The museum opens daily at 8:30am and closes at 5:30pm at 206/19/30 Long Thuan Street, District 9, Thu uc City. VNS HA NOI A book on late artist Tran Phuc Duyen has been released in Ha Noi to introduce the life and career of one of the last members from the Indochina School of Fine Arts (L'Ecole Superieure des Beaux-Arts d'Indochine). The book entitled Duyen: Hien Thuc, Truu Tuong, Thien Hoa (Fate: Realism, Abstractionism, Zen) is from a six-year compilation by collectors Pham Quoc at and Le Quang Vinh. Born in 1923, artist Duyen was a late comer of the New Art movement in Indochina. The year 1930 was the epitome of the New Poetry, associated with the pre-war literature movements. In 1942, at the age of 19, he was enrolled in the school and in 1945 with his studies not yet completed, the L'Ecole Superieure was closed due to the war. As one of the last generations from the school, Duyen was one of those who migrated to Europe, joining a group which included Le Pho, Vu Cao am, Mai Thu, Le Thi Luu, Pham Thuc Chuong, Vo Lang and Pham Tang. He moved to France in 1954 and lived in Switzerland until he died, but he was the only one among his compatriots, to pursue son mai as his life-long passion. He titled himself a son mai (lacquer) artist as early as the beginning of the 1950s, when he was still in Ha Noi, stamping it as a title mark on the reverse of his work. Even when Duyen moved to Europe, the geographical distance and material shortages could not stop him from persevering with his love for son mai and his endeavour to seek and experiment with different ways of working with lacquer. "This book is our tribute to Duyen," said the collectors. "He is an artist who created a phenomenal legacy in son mai art, notwithstanding years living far away from the source of son ta (Vietnamese son mai materials). "He never stopped innovating his style and materials, thus his works spoke for themselves and won their position in the art world. They have contributed to the multi-levelled development of Vietnamese son mai." at and Vinh's meeting with artist Duyen's art was by chance. They discovered one of the treasures from the artist which had been packed in box in the attic of the Jergenstorf Castle Museum in the suburb of Bern where he had lived since 1968. The turn of the artist's works to the Vietnamese audience was also the collectors own return to the Vietnamese spiritual and aesthetic values. "Being able to accompany him in this journey has been our blessing, since we came to realise that no matter where we are, where we go Viet Nam stays alive in our hearts and minds," the collectors said. The collectors are amateurs in terms of the profession of writing and printing, so they sought help from expert advisers. The book comprises 100 paintings that are from collections in France, Switzerland, Italy and Viet Nam. Duyen's paintings, particularly those created in Europe are for the most part almost all monochrome with minor contrast and extremely delicate in colour shades. This represents an enormous challenge for photographers, graphic designers and printing technicians. Most of the pictures in this book, selected by Duyen himself, were printed out from the negative films that the collectors were lucky enough to access from his archive or those taken and processed by the professional art photographer of the Rijksmusseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands. "I myself never had a chance to meet artist Duyen in person," said popular fine arts critic Phan Cam Thuong. "I only saw some of his works in Viet Nam and did not know or hear much about him. "I was introduced to the at and Vinh's collection including Duyen's works. I was absolutely amazed and therefore accepted the invitation to write a commentary for the book." The book also aims to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Indochina College of Fine Arts establishment, the predecessor of the Viet Nam University of Fine Arts. The book's launch will be held on January 11 at Nam Thi House, 152 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, HCM City. VNS HA NOI Southeast Asian tourism authorities have been working together to boost a tourism network among six countries: Viet Nam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia. Ho An Phong, Vietnamese deputy minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, held a working session with a Thai delegation led by Dusit Manapan, advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, in Ha Noi on January 3, within this framework. The discussion focused on the 'Six Countries, One Destination' initiative, which aims to enhance tourism collaboration among the six ASEAN member countries. This initiative also seeks to redefine regional tourism and in turn strengthen Viet NamThailand cooperation. At the meeting, Dusit outlined that the project aims to facilitate easier travel among participating nations by simplifying immigration procedures, including exploring the possibility of a shared visa system. This common visa would allow tourists to visit multiple countries within the ASEAN bloc seamlessly. The initiative also envisions fast-track immigration lanes, enhanced business networks and coordinated promotional campaigns to position the six nations as a unified destination. This collaborative approach, Dusit said, is expected to significantly boost tourist exchanges within ASEAN while attracting international travellers from key markets such as the United States, Europe and South Asia. He also highlighted the initiatives potential to enrich tourists experiences by offering diverse and interconnected travel opportunities across these culturally rich nations. Strengthening Viet NamThailand ties Regarding bilateral tourism cooperation between Viet Nam and Thailand, Dusit emphasized the substantial potential for improving infrastructure, including road, waterway and air connections, to support seamless travel. Strengthening these networks would encourage more frequent exchanges between the two nations citizens and foster economic growth through tourism. Phong expressed Viet Nams strong support for the initiative, acknowledging its alignment with the broader goals of ASEAN cooperation in culture, sports and tourism. He underlined the need for joint efforts in creating new tourism products that leverage the unique strengths of both nations. Phong also proposed collaborative participation in trade fairs, promotional events and tourism exhibitions hosted in each country. These efforts would not only increase tourist exchanges but also attract investments and foster business partnerships. The discussion also touched on the importance of developing tourism workers and Phong noted Viet Nams desire for Thailands support in training its workforce. Suggestions included providing scholarships for short and long-term programmes, organising training workshops and fostering partnerships between educational institutions. Visa policies emerged as another critical area of focus. Phong emphasized Viet Nams commitment to creating favourable conditions for international tourists by maintaining an open and liberal visa policy. The country is actively researching potential markets to expand its list of countries eligible for unilateral and bilateral visa exemptions. This effort aligns with the goals of the 'Six Countries, One Destination' initiative, where simplified visa procedures are expected to play a pivotal role in attracting global tourists. Viet Nam and Thailand agreed on the critical role of transportation infrastructure in facilitating tourism growth. Phong highlighted the need to reassess existing flight routes and explore new ones to enhance connectivity. Strengthening all transport networks, over air and water, between the two countries would make travel more convenient for both domestic and international visitors. Balancing visitor flows between the two nations was also discussed. Phong suggested that collaborative efforts to evaluate tourism trends and demands would ensure sustainable growth while maintaining mutual benefits. Toward a shared future The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism about the potential of the six countries' initiative in transforming regional tourism. Phong described the project as a major step toward elevating cultural, sports and tourism cooperation between Viet Nam and Thailand to new heights. However, he also stressed the need for careful evaluation to address potential challenges. Identifying and overcoming obstacles would be crucial to the initiatives success. This collaborative approach underscores the shared commitment of Viet Nam and Thailand to driving tourism growth and fostering deeper connections within the ASEAN community. As the 'Six Countries, One Destination' initiative gains momentum, it holds the promise of not only boosting tourism but also strengthening cultural ties and economic partnerships across the region. For Viet Nam and Thailand, this marks a significant opportunity to lead the way in shaping the future of ASEAN tourism. VNS HA NOI The Viet Nam Ethnic Culture and Tourism Village in Ha Noi's outlying Son Tay township will host a special Lunar New Year (Tet) celebration for the less fortunate on January 19, its management board announced. At the heart of the celebration will be the erection of a Neu tree - a bamboo pole adorned with symbolic items in the courtyard. This ancient ritual is believed to ward off bad luck from the past year and usher in peace and prosperity for the new year. Adding to the festive atmosphere, a banh chung (square glutinous rice cake) making event will take place at the Ba Na ethnic village's courtyard. This communal activity is expected to draw around 200 participants, transforming a culinary tradition into a meaningful fundraising effort. The goal is to raise funds from organisations, individuals, and the broader Vietnamese community to support those in need. The event's generosity will extend further with the distribution of 660 gift packages, each valued between VN1 to 2 million (US$39 - 79), for the disadvantaged and policy beneficiaries in Thanh Hoa and Tuyen Quang provinces; various parts of Ha Noi, including Son Tay township, Thach That and Ba Vi districts; victims of Agent Orange/dioxin in Son Tay township; and those living in the Ethnic Culture and Tourism Village. Directed by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, this event goes beyond charity. It also aims to introduce the unique cultural traditions of Viet Nam's Tet to domestic and foreign visitors, foster the great national solidarity, and instill a sense of responsibility into younger generations to preserve and promote the nations cultural identity. VNA/VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Monday highlighted Amandeep Singh Gill's presence in Viet Nam as a testament to the United Nations' commitment to fostering international cooperation in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and innovation. Amandeep Singh Gill serves as the Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies and the UN Secretary-Generals Envoy on Technology. During a meeting with Gill, who is on a working visit to Ha Noi, PM Chinh emphasised the strategic importance of these fields for the development of individual nations and their role in shaping the future of humanity. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Viet Nams commitment as a responsible member of the international community, valuing the UNs principles of multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development. He also acknowledged the UNs increasing leadership in maintaining global peace, security, and sustainable development, particularly in advancing science, technology, and digital transformation. PM Chinh praised Amandeep Singh Gills personal contributions, including his role in promoting the recently adopted Global Digital Compact at the Future Summit. The Prime Minister informed Gill that Viet Nam regards science, technology, and innovation as essential requirements, strategic priorities, and key drivers of national development. In particular, digital transformation, big data, cloud computing, quantum technology, semiconductors, clean energy, and new materials are identified as key drivers of national development. Viet Nam is striving for an eight per cent growth rate this year and aims for double-digit growth in the years ahead to achieve its vision of becoming a modern industrial nation by 2030 and a high-income country by 2045. The country has adopted several key programmes and strategies, including the National Digital Transformation Programme to 2025, with a Vision to 2030, and the National Strategy on Research, Development, and Application of Artificial Intelligence to 2030. Most recently, on 22 December 2022, the Politburo issued Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on Breakthroughs in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation, establishing the Central Steering Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation, and National Digital Transformation. The committee is led by Party General Secretary To Lam, with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh serving as deputy head. Amandeep Singh Gill expressed his gratitude to PM Chinh for the meeting and congratulated Viet Nam on its growing prominence in science, technology, and innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence. Gill noted that his visit aimed to advance the outcomes of the UN Secretary-Generals visit to Viet Nam in 2022 and the recent meeting between the UN Secretary-General and Party General Secretary To Lam at the Future Summit. He emphasised that digital technology presents a transformative opportunity for countries to accelerate development, with Viet Nam exemplifying this potential. The United Nations is actively promoting cooperation and strengthening solidarity in technological development, with a particular focus on the implementation and international collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI). The UN emphasises its pivotal role in shaping the future of AI and ensuring equal opportunities for all in this transformative field. One of the UN's key initiatives is advancing the Global Digital Compact, which provides a comprehensive framework for the global governance of digital technologies and AI. Additionally, the UN is championing the AI Governance Policy Forum, aimed at unifying a common approach to AI governance, fostering knowledge exchange, learning, and global connectivity to accelerate progress, build capacity, and share the benefits of AI widely. Recognising Viet Nam's progress and potential as an emerging global power, the UN encourages the country to actively engage in these initiatives. It envisions Vietnamese technology enterprises not only contributing to the nations socio-economic development but also addressing global challenges, particularly in developing countries. Expressing his gratitude and extending New Year greetings, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh invited UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to visit Viet Nam in the near future. The Prime Minister expressed agreement with the UN Deputy Secretary-Generals views and voiced strong support for the UN's initiatives. PM Chinh affirmed Viet Nam's readiness to host or co-organise international events aimed at fostering mutual understanding and multilateral cooperation in technology and AI, including hosting the AI Governance Policy Forum. The Prime Minister also proposed that the UN continue supporting Viet Nam in several key areas: developing a legal framework and international standards for technology management, facilitating technology transfer, and providing workforce training, particularly in the field of AI. VNS GIA LAI The Central Highlands province of Gia Lai needs to demonstrate a strong commitment to development in order to become a prosperous province. The province, in the central coastal and highlands region, needs to focus on organic agriculture, ecological diversity, rich and distinctive cultural assets as well as sustainable social and environmental practices. Efforts should be made to accelerate development and improve the quality of life for its residents. Party General Secretary To Lam made the orders on Monday during his working session with Gia Lai Province on the results of implementing the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress and the 16th Provincial Party Congress. In his address, Lam urged the province to closely follow the Central Partys Resolutions, approved planning, and strategies for comprehensive, in-depth, and inclusive economic development based on three main pillars. The three pillars consisted of developing high-tech, sustainable, and organic agriculture, developing selected industries that capitalise on the province's comparative advantages, such as processing industries, renewable energy, and construction materials, and growing tourism as a green economy sector. Tourism is a key economic driver, with distinctive quality, sustainable practices, and a unique identity reflecting the Central Highlands region. Lam said that the province must significantly improve the investment environment, making business operations transparent, convenient, and cost-effective to effectively implement the pillars. The province should make efforts to boost the digital economy and innovation and enhance transport infrastructure linking urban areas, economic hubs, and raw material zones, as well as irrigation, industrial, and tourism infrastructure. The province was instructed to strongly promote private-sector economic growth and rapidly increase its contribution to the provincial Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). Successful collective economic models, such as new-style cooperatives and agricultural associations, should be expanded, and local OCOP (One CommuneOne Product) initiatives should be enhanced. It was also important to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of State-owned enterprises and remove barriers hindering the private sectors growth. The province was tasked with focusing on the effective implementation of three national target programmes: building new-style rural areas, reducing poverty sustainably, and developing the socio-economic conditions of ethnic minorities and mountainous regions. He also urged swift and comprehensive reviews of targets, tasks and solutions, addressing bottlenecks to development and striving to achieve the highest possible level of goals set in the 16th Provincial Party Congress Resolution. A key area of focus, according to Lam, was the building of a clean and strong Party and political system capable of responding to new challenges. It included a comprehensive review of the implementation of Resolution 18 regarding the reorganisation of political apparatus. Strengthening national defence Lam also stressed the need to strengthen national defence, security and foreign relations, treating those as permanent and high-priority tasks. The Central Highlands, including Gia Lai Province, holds a crucial position in national security and defence, he said. Economic development must be closely linked to safeguarding national sovereignty, border security, and the effective prevention of cross-border crimes and smuggling. Provincial authorities had to remain vigilant against hostile forces and actively protect internal political security, religious security, economic security, cyber security and State secrets, he added. Maintaining strong ties with neighbouring border provinces was believed to be vital for fostering regional economic development and promoting peaceful, cooperative and friendly relations. He assigned relevant ministries and agencies to consider and address the province's proposals in accordance with legal frameworks, ensuring maximum support for the province's development potential. He said he believed that the province would make significant breakthroughs in socio-economic development, laying a solid foundation for rapid, sustainable and comprehensive growth, with improved living standards for its people, enabling them to thrive in tandem with the nations advancement into a prosperous future. Following a report at the meeting, in the 2020-25 period, the provinces economic growth rate is expected to average 6.21 per cent, with the economy growing nearly 1.9 times compared to the beginning of the term. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries play a crucial role, with a focus on applying scientific technology to increase productivity and value. Key agricultural products, including coffee, pepper, rubber and cassava, have become important export items. The forest coverage rate is substantial at 47.5 per cent. Industrial and construction output has also seen strong growth, and the province has attracted significant renewable energy projects. Human resource training, employment and healthcare have made notable progress, helping improve labour quality. The health system and network have been boosted, extending to remote villages. The poverty rate has significantly reduced thanks to Government support policies. The National Target Programme on building new-style rural areas has transformed rural areas, providing opportunities for socio-economic development and improving both material and spiritual well-being. On the occasion of the meeting, Lam presented a VN5 billion ($196,600) health station to Glar Commune in ak oa District, aimed at enhancing the healthcare quality for local residents. VNS HA NOI - The People's Court of Thai Binh Province on Tuesday opened the first-instance trial on two former deputies of National Assembly Luu Binh Nhuong and Le Thanh Van. Nhuong, 62, who served as deputy head of the National Assembly's Ombudsman Committee before he was arrested, has been charged with abusing power and authority to influence others for personal gains and extortion of property. Van, 61, has been charged with abusing power and authority to influence others for personal gains. Three others also facing the charges are Nguyen Van Vuong, former specialist of the Legal Department, Office of the President, Pham Minh Cuong and Vu ang Phuong from Thai Binh Province. Defendant Van and his lawyers requested the judge to postpone the trial on the grounds that some parties directly related to the case such as Ha Long Transport Services Company Limited, Hong Van Transport Services Cooperative were not present. The judge decided to continue the trial because those summoned by the court but absent had already given statements, so it was not necessary to be present at the trial. According to the indictment, from 2020 to 2023, the five defendants committed extortion of property, abusing their positions and power to influence others for personal gains in Thai Binh, Quang Ninh, Hai Phong and Ha Noi. They were involved in the extortion of property of the Sao o Company branch, abusing their positions and powers to intervene in the settlement of a civil case occurring at the Hai Phong City People's Court and the approval of the Que Vo 3 project in Bac Ninh Province for personal gains. In May and June 2021, Cuong told Nhuong that he used ploys to take money from the Sao o Company branch and asked Nhuong to intervene to create favourable conditions for Cuong to do business. Cuong sold 30 hectares of tidal flats to Nhuong at the price of about VN1.2 billion. After that, Nhuong handed over this area to Cuong to manage and exploit, while Nhuong and his wife collected the money. Nhuong contacted a number of agencies of Thai Binh Province to ask for help and create conditions for Cuong to continue his property extortion. In December 2020 and May 2021, Nhuong, in his capacity as a National Assembly deputy, signed documents asking leaders of the Hai Phong City People's Committee, the Chief Justice, the Chief Prosecutor and the director of the Hai Phong City Police Department to intervene to resolve the case in a way that was favourable to help a person named Thao to benefit from a wooden gate worth VN75 million and a land lot worth VN160 million. On March 15, 2021, Nhuong, in his capacity as a National Assembly deputy, asked for support from the Government to help Manh uc Company to get approval of Que Vo 3 project in Bac Ninh Province. Nhuong benefited US$300,000 in this case. On July 18, 2019 and October 1, 2019, Nhuong, as a National Assembly deputy, signed two documents requesting the People's Committee of Quang Ninh Province to allow Ha Long Company to continue implementing the 36-hectare project, benefiting from a plot of land in ong Anh worth more than VN1.8 billion and to benefit from 1,000 sq.m of land in this project (worth more than VN1.9 billion). From July to October 2023, Nhuong, as deputy head of the National Assembly's Ombudsman Committee, signed documents and asked leaders of Quang Ninh Province to intervene so that Truong Sinh Joint Stock Company could soon be licensed to exploit the Bac Son hill project to gain VN210 million. Le Thanh Van was identified as having signed four documents asking leaders of the provincial Party Committee, the People's Committee of Quang Ninh Province and the Permanent Deputy Prime Minister of the Government to allow Ha Long Company to continue implementing the 36-hectare project, benefiting from a plot of land in ong Anh, Ha Noi. VNS PHNOM PENH President of the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) Samdech Techo Hun Sen on January 7 highlighted the invaluable contributions of the Cambodian revolutionary armed forces and Vietnamese volunteer soldiers, who bravely fought and laid down their lives to overthrow the genocidal Pol Pot regime, ensuring the revival of the Cambodian people. In a seven-page statement delivered at a mass gathering in Phnom Penh marking the 46th anniversary of the January 7 Victory over the genocidal regime (1979-2025), which was attended by over 20,000 people, Hun Sen expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Viet Nam and its leaders for their support during the struggle. He also thanked the international community for their continued contributions to peace, democracy, and development in Cambodia. Local media outlets commemorated the date, which marks the historic fall of the Pol Pot regime, with extensive coverage, highlighting it as an undeniable historical truth, a symbol of solidarity and national liberation, and a monumental achievement rooted in the international solidarity between Viet Nam and Cambodia. Uch Leang, President of the Cambodia Alumni from Viet Nam Association (CAVA), described the two countries friendship as a shining example of international solidarity and of neighbours close-knit ties. He underscored that the relationship built on a shared history and mutual solidarity in their struggles for national independence and freedom. Stressing the significance of the January 7 event, he said it is a historic lesson for future generations to cherish and uphold the tradition of solidarity and mutual support between the Vietnamese and Cambodian armies and people in safeguarding their territories. VNS HA NOI Berggruen Holdings is willing to cooperate with, invest in, and support Viet Nam in personnel training, affirmed Founder and Chairman of the US-based company Nicolas Berggruen while he and Director of the Weatherhead East Asian Institute at the Columbia University Nguyen Thi Lien Hang were received by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Ha Noi on Tuesday. At the reception, the PM Chinh lauded Hang's active contributions to the organisation of Vietnamese high-ranking leaders policy dialogues in recent times as well as her attendance at these events. He stated that Viet Nam is rejuvenating its traditional growth drivers while developing new ones, including exploring outer space, marine resources, and underground potential. In addition to domestic efforts, the country needs international support and cooperation, especially from the US, in terms of capital, science and technology, innovation, smart governance, human resources training, and green development. The PM said education and training remain a highlight of the Viet Nam-US relations, with an increasing number of Vietnamese students studying in the US. He suggested Berggruen Holdings explore investments in some culturally and historically significant projects, and help Viet Nam promote its culture abroad, enrich its cultural identity, and boost its cultural industry. He also encouraged the company to collaborate with the Vietnamese side in education, research, and workforce development. For his part, Berggruen, who is also Founder and Chairman of the Berggruen Institute, acknowledged the hardships Viet Nam has endured, saying he admires the countrys remarkable transformation over the years. He noted his belief that with its resilience, ambition, and strong potential, Viet Nam will rise in the future, increasingly consolidating its political and economic roles on the global stage. Agreeing with the PMs suggestions, Berggruen affirmed Berggruen Holdings willingness to collaborate with Vietnam in human resources training. In the short term, the company will provide consulting services to help the country establish a development investment fund. VNS SINGAPORE Newly-appointed Vietnamese Ambassador to Singapore Tran Phuoc Anh on Tuesday presented his credentials to Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. President Tharman expressed his delight at the comprehensive development of the bilateral relationship in the recent past, stressing that Singapore wants to boost cooperation with Viet Nam in such promising areas as clean energy, artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor, carbon credit, finance, education and training. As both nations are preparing for the upgrade of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, he underscored the pivotal role the Ambassador is expected to play, saying that his contributions would be vital to developing the bilateral ties. Anh, in turn, expressed his desire to push the bilateral Strategic Partnership to a new height in the fields of politics, national defence-security, economy, culture, Party relations, and people-to-people exchanges. He was committed to making every effort during his tenure to further develop their already strong and substantive relationship for the benefit of both nations' people, contributing to peace, stability, and development in the region and the world. On the same day, the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs rolled out a warm welcome to Ambassador Tran Phuoc Anh, releasing a detailed biography on its website that highlighted his distinguished service as a Counsellor at the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar from 2010-14. VNA/VNS Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of France's far-right National Front, known for his fiery rhetoric on immigration and multiculturalism, has died at the age of 96. His statements, which garnered both fervent supporters and widespread condemnation, included controversial views like Holocaust denial, resulting in multiple convictions and strained political relationships. Jordan Bardella, the president of the party now renamed the National Rally, confirmed Le Pen's death in a post on social media Tuesday. Le Pen reached the second round of the 2002 presidential election but eventually became estranged from his daughter, Marine Le Pen. She rebranded his National Front party, expelled him, and steered it into a more powerful political force, distancing herself from her father's extreme image. Although he was excluded from the party in 2015, Le Pen's controversial legacy continues to shape the far-right movement in France and remains a significant chapter in the country's political history. His death comes at a pivotal moment for his daughter, Marine Le Pen, who is currently facing a potential prison sentence and a ban from running for office if convicted in an ongoing trial for embezzlement. Who Was Jean-Marie Le Pen? A prominent figure in French politics for decades, Le Pen was known for his sharp political acumen and commanding presence as an orator. With his anti-immigration rhetoric, he captivated audiences and became a central figure in the far-right National Front, which he founded. The son of a Breton fisherman saw himself as a guardian of French identity, focusing on keeping France "French" and using Joan of Arc as the party's patron saint. His rhetoric targeted Islam and Muslim immigrants, whom he blamed for the country's economic and social challenges. A former paratrooper and Foreign Legionnaire who fought in Indochina and Algeria, Le Pen led his supporters into political and ideological conflicts with the style and flair that became his trademark throughout his career. HA NOI Leaders of the Vietnamese Party, State, Government and National Assembly have extended their condolences to Chinese leaders following a major earthquake that struck the Tibet Autonomous Region on January 7, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries. General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam To Lam sent a letter of sympathy and State President Luong Cuong sent a message of sympathy to General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh delivered a message of condolences to Chinese Premier Li Qiang, while National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man extended his condolences to Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China Zhao Leji. The same day, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of its Commission for External Relations Le Hoai Trung sent a similar message to Liu Jianchao, Chairman of the CPC Central Committees International Liaison Department. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son also expressed his condolences to Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China. A total of 126 people have been confirmed dead and 188 others injured as of 7 p.m. Tuesday, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in Xizang on Tuesday morning, Chinese news agency Xinhua reported. VNS BEN TRE Farmers in Cho Lach District, Ben Tre Province, are anticipating good profits from cultivating flowers and ornamental plants for the upcoming Tet (Lunar New Year) festival. They are busy tending their plants in preparation for the festival, which falls on January 29, 2025. Situated on the riverine Minh Island, with a dense network of rivers and canals and a mild climate, the district is the deltas largest producer of seedlings, flowers and ornamental plants. According to its Peoples Committee, more than 10 million pots of flowers and ornamental plants are being cultivated for the festival, including roses, marigolds, chrysanthemums, paper flowers, yellow ochna flowers, and bonsai trees. Nguyen Quang Hung, a farmer in Vinh Thanh Commune, said his family has more than 150 yellow ochna trees, which are thriving due to favourable weather conditions. Unlike in previous years, when farmers had to wait for traders to place orders, I have already sold more than 40 yellow ochna trees in advance. They were sold to traders from the central region at an average price of VN1.61.7 million (US$6367) per tree. Huynh Lan, also from Vinh Thanh Commune, said her family had been growing yellow ochna trees for Tet for many years. This year, she has cultivated around 100 Thu uc yellow ochna trees and is optimistic about a successful season. Other flowers and ornamental plants were also being purchased in advance by traders. Nguyen Thi Hong Thu, who has grown over 2,500 pots of chrysanthemums in Vinh Thanh, said more than 80 per cent had already been sold to traders. A pair of pots fetches VN180,000 ($7), VN15,000 more than a year ago. According to farmers, favourable weather conditions have ensured that the quality and appearance of the flowers and ornamental plants meet buyers expectations. In addition to selling their products to traders, many farmers are also increasing their sales through e-commerce platforms and social media. According to Nguyen Minh uc, Vice Chairman of the Cho Lach Peoples Committee, flower and ornamental plant cultivation has been a distinctive strength of the district for nearly a century. The district produces some 20 million pots of flowers and ornamental plants annually. For Tet this year, artisans are creating ornamental plants in the shapes of the 12 zodiac animals, with a special focus on snakes, the zodiac sign for 2025. Farmers have also increased their use of high-quality seeds and seedlings to boost production efficiency. The Ben Tre Centre for Seedlings, Flower and Ornamental Plants has provided 10,000 high-quality seedlings, mainly tissue-cultured chrysanthemum seedlings, to local farmers for Tet. The number of households growing flowers and ornamental plants, and their output, has risen steadily in recent years, according to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The cultivation and trade of flowers and ornamental plants for Tet have become the primary source of income for many households and ensure stable livelihoods. The province has 7,907 households engaged in this occupation, with Cho Lach accounting for 6,421. Farmers in Cho Lach earned 20 - 30 per cent profits from selling flowers and ornamental plants for Tet last year, according to the district Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Development. The district will host the Cho Lach Flower and Ornamental Plant Festival from January 8 to 12. The festival aims to showcase the districts flowers, ornamental plants, culture, history, and landscapes to both domestic and international tourists while also promoting investment opportunities in the area. VNS By Le Viet Dung GIA LAI A long-running separatist organisation, cloaked under the guise of religion, known as 'Dega Protestantism', has incited unrest among ethnic minorities in Viet Nam's Central Highlands for decades. However, many followers, realising its deceitful nature, have renounced it, rejoined legitimate religious organisations and returned to the right side of the law. The story of 'Dega Protestantism' begins with the formation of FULRO (Front Unifie de Lutte des Races Opprimees), an organisation seeking to establish a separatist state for ethnic minority communities in the Central Highlands. From its inception until 1975, FULRO's activities revolved around political confrontations with the US-backed Saigon regime. After Viet Nam reunified, FULRO continued its insurgent activities, seeking to disrupt national unity. Between the late 1970s and 1980s, FULRO reportedly received support from foreign powers and Khmer Rouge forces. The group attacked local government offices, deceived villagers into joining their ranks and killed those who refused to support their cause. "FULRO told us that the People's Army of Viet Nam (PAV) would make life unbearable for the Gia Rai people, so we should follow them for a better future," said H'nem, a Gia Rai villager who joined FULRO in 1981. However, what he and many other villagers received fell far short of "a better future." They suffered years of hardship in the group's encampments, subsisting on wild plants and constantly fearing punishment for dissent. "FULRO gave us guns and told us to shoot PAV soldiers on sight," recalled Hnem. "They threatened to kill anyone who tried to leave." FULRO was gradually dismantled in the late 1980s by the Vietnamese government's sustained efforts and ultimately defeated in 1992 when the 407 remaining fighters surrendered to the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia. Despite its dissolution, FULROs leaders abroad continued their separatist agenda. In 1999, Ksor Kok, a FULRO leader in exile, directed the creation of 'Dega Protestantism' to exploit religious faith to rally support for a 'Dega State'. The Evangelical Church of Vietnam (South) publicly denounced the organisation in 2001, stating it was not affiliated with Protestantism and warning against its divisive tactics. Spreading false promises of a separatist state and international support, the group recruited followers, including individuals previously affiliated with FULRO. They gathered at government offices to stage protests and incite unrest, creating public disorder. "When officials tried to disperse us, we were told to resist and accuse the government of religious oppression," said Ksor Mel, a former member of 'Dega Protestantism'. Mel joined the group in 2001 after being recruited by relatives abroad. By 2004, he was assigned leadership over four villages in Hoa Phu Commune, Chu Pah District, Gia Lai Province. "Leaders abroad told me to maintain the movement at all costs, claiming that if Viet Nam banned it, international intervention would follow," Mel said. Mel explained that members were aware that their activities, aimed at forming a separatist state, violated Vietnamese law. Consequently, meetings were held secretly to avoid detection. Over time, he began questioning the organisations motives and eventually renounced the group after being encouraged by local government officials and Methodist pastors. Now studying theology to become a preacher in the legitimate Methodist Church, Mel has helped 42 others leave 'Dega Protestantism' and return to the mainstream. His family has been granted official recognition to host religious gatherings, allowing them to practice openly and legally. "After years of going astray, I realised that 'Dega Protestantism' is a false organisation that does not follow Gods teachings. It only causes division and disrupts national unity," Mel concluded. Siu Un, another former member, led the groups activities in Ayun Pa District and played a central role in the 2001 uprising. He distributed propaganda calling for the establishment of the 'Dega State' and orchestrated violent protests. Arrested in February 2001, he was sentenced to 14 years for illegal detention, public disorder, and disrupting national security. "At first, I believed the promises that the United Nations would intervene if we were arrested," Un said. "But after five years in prison, I realised it was all lies. No one came to rescue us." During his incarceration, only government officials visited him and his family, offering support. In contrast, the organisation abandoned him entirely. "That was when I stopped believing in the so-called Dega State," he said. After serving his sentence, Un overcame his initial shame with support from local authorities and reintegrated into the community. He now serves as a deacon in the Vietnam Christian Mission, a recognised religious organisation. "I feel a weight lifted off my shoulders now that I can practice my faith openly and legally," Un said. Un also revealed that 'Dega Protestantism' leaders encouraged members to forcefully separate local Protestants from their churches, demanding they sign declarations to disaffiliate from the churches and join the movement. These activities aimed to redirect religious devotion into political rebellion. Major General Rah Lan Lam, Director of Gia Lai Provincial Police, revealed that 'Dega Protestantism' was behind major riots in 2001, 2004 and 2008 in the Central Highlands. "Exploiting religion to incite separatist and autonomous ideologies is a malicious tactic often used by these groups," he said. He stated that exiled FULRO leaders have reportedly established other organisations under religious guises to attract followers, such as the Montagnard Evangelical Church of Christ of the Central Highlands and Sang po pu ana cu. "These groups aim to lure ethnic minorities into anti-government activities under the pretence of religion," he added. To counter these threats, Gia Lai's authorities launched the 'Returning to Faith, Preserving Village Peace' initiative in 2022, focusing on persuading former FULRO and 'Dega Protestantism' members to return to lawful religious practices. The programme has been implemented in four key districts: Chu Se, Phu Thien, ak oa and Ia Grai. Over the past three years, the initiative has successfully encouraged 136 individuals to renounce FULRO and more than 780 others to rejoin legitimate religious organisations. "This programme leverages the strength of the community, especially respected leaders and religious figures, to act as bridges in persuading and guiding those who have gone astray to return to legitimate faiths," said the Chairman of Gia Lai's People's Committee. Participants are free to choose their religious affiliations and are supported with loans and vocational training to help rebuild their lives. One of the programmes successes is Y Bome, a Ba Na man in ak oa District. Once appointed as a provincial governor by FULRO leaders, Bome abandoned separatist activities and received government assistance to farm coffee, raise livestock, and educate his children. "FULROs lies only led people to harm their country and themselves," he said. "Its the government that truly cares for the people of the Central Highlands." VNS HCM CITY Vietnamese authorities have repatriated 13 Cambodian nationals, including three minors, who were found to be illegally employed at a veneer processing facility in Viet Nam. Following an inspection last Saturday, the Immigration Management Department of Binh Phuoc Province in southern Viet Nam imposed a penalty of VN57.5 million (US$) on the owner of the Van Thanh II veneer processing facility in Phu Rieng Districts Long Hung Commune for the illegal employment of foreign workers. These punitive measures aim to deter the practice of illegal labour and protect the rights of both employees and employers within the established legal framework, said the authorities. Under Vietnamese law, the illegal employment of foreign workers constitutes a violation of regulations pertaining to labour management and residency. Such violations pose significant risks to public security and order, as well as to the working and living conditions of the affected individuals. The issues of illegal immigration and the employment of foreign workers remain a critical issue between the two neighbouring countries, with many migrants implicated in online fraud activities. Recently, authorities of the Moc Bai international border gate in Tay Ninh Province identified 14 individuals among 410 Vietnamese citizens returning from Cambodia who are suspected of involvement in online fraud schemes. Of the 410 citizens, 106 had exited Viet Nam legally through official border crossings, while 304 others had crossed the border illegally via various provinces. VNS NEW DELHI 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. 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. 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 made and will continue to make as strategic partners and countries with a shared commitment to peaceful nuclear cooperation. THE STATESMAN/ANN BEIJING The rapid spread of seasonal influenza in China in recent weeks has increased the demand for a certain antiviral medication, prompting health experts to warn against hoarding of the pills or administering them to children without a doctors advice. The drug baloxavir marboxil, sold under the brand name Xofluza, is approved for use among adults, as well as children age 5 and above. While the original market price per strip of Xofluza, comprising two 20 milligram tablets, is 222 yuan ($30) in China, the prescription drug is currently being sold at over 300 yuan on some e-commerce platforms. Cases of influenza, a viral infection affecting the human respiratory system, have been on the rise since December. The positivity rate among people visiting hospitals with flu-like symptoms rose 6.2 percent during the week ending Dec 29 compared with the week before, according to data released earlier this month by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The prevalence of flu in northern provinces is more severe, but the overall level is lower than what was seen during the same period of the last flu season, said the China CDC. In Northeast Chinas Liaoning province, the number of flu cases surged in December, with an average weekly growth rate of over 123 percent, local authorities said last week. Official data showed that the influenza A virus is responsible for more than 99 percent of positive flu cases nationwide. For the week ending Dec 29, about 99.7 percent of flu patients were infected by the strain. Speaking about the surging demand for Xofluza, Sun Boyang, a pharmacist at Peking University Peoples Hospital, told China Central Television that compared with another common flu medication called oseltamivir, the drug baloxavir marboxil is easier to administer. While oseltamivir sold under the common brand name Tamiflu is usually prescribed for five consecutive days, with a daily dosage of two tablets, Xofluza only needs to be administered once throughout the entire course of illness. As some concerned parents are stocking up on the relatively newer antiviral medication in anticipation of a drug shortage, Sun said that children infected with the flu virus should first be taken to a hospital for evaluation, and Xofluza should be administered only under professional guidance. Pregnant or lactating women should also take special precautions while using this antiviral medication, the pharmacist added. Wang Quan, a physician at Capital Medical Universitys Beijing Childrens Hospital, said that any antiviral medication is most effective when administered within 48 hours of a confirmed infection. Parents are also advised to administer antipyretic medication carefully based on a childs age and weight, as well as the drugs composition, Wang said. Pharmaceutical company Roche, the only supplier of Xofluza in China, allayed fears of a drug shortage and said on Monday that it has sufficient flu medication in stock. The company attaches great importance to securing inventories of Xofluza during this flu season, it added. THE CHINA DAILY/ANN Policy credit has helped needy households across the country embrace economic development sustainably. Photo: VBSP Following the motto Understanding people's hearts, wholeheartedly serving, bolstering efficiency for sustainable development, VBSP continuously accompanied policy beneficiaries, making it easier for the poor to access preferential credit sources. The bank expedited many effective solutions, from mobilising development resources to timely disbursement, helping clients restore production and stabilise their lives after natural disasters. According to Huynh Van Thuan, VBSPs deputy CEO, as of December 31, 2024, the total policy credit volume tailored to support needy and disadvantaged people and households came to $15.68 billion, up $1.24 billion on-year. Of this, entrusted capital from the local budget reached $2.1 billion, up 479.4 million on-year, accounting for 13.5 per cent. The capital entrusted to VBSP includes funds under Resolution No.111/2024/QH15 of the National Assembly on specific policies to implement national target initiatives, which amounted to $89.2 million being provided to VBSP branches in 20 localities. Several branches had received entrusted capital exceeding VND1 trillion ($41.6 million) since Directive No.40-CT/TW of the Secretariat on strengthening Partys leadership in social policy credit came into force from November 2014, including Hanoi being allocated $368 million, Ho Chi Minh City $306.3 million, Binh Duong $92 million, Danang $90 million, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau $67.5 million, to name but a few. By December 31, 2024, the total loan disbursement approximated $5 billion, with over 2.3 million poor households and other policy beneficiaries accessing loans. The total outstanding policy credit reached $15.3 billion, an increase of $1.48 billion or 10.8 per cent compared to 2023, with nearly 6.8 million customers having outstanding loans. Among these, the outstanding loans for production and business activities reached $10.97 billion, accounting for 71.6 per cent of total outstanding loans, focusing on programmes to support poor and near-poor households, newly escaped poverty households, and job creation. Outstanding loans for living and daily needs amounted to $4.35 billion, accounting for 28.4 per cent, supporting diverse target programmes on clean water, environmental sanitation, social housing construction, and education. VBSP has made significant contributions to three national target programmes. Regarding the sustainable poverty reduction lending programme, outstanding loan volume for poor and near-poor households, and newly escaped poverty households came to $5.85 billion, accounting for 38.2 per cent of total outstanding loans, supporting over 2.8 million households. For the lending earmarked for new-style rural area development, total outstanding loans reached $13.5 billion, focusing on agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and social infrastructure. For the lending serving socioeconomic development of ethnic minorities, outstanding loans reached $5.42 billion, of which loans to ethnic minority households amounted to $3.73 billion, supporting more than 1.6 million local households, contributing to improving production and living standards. Deputy CEO Huynh Van Thuan also noted that in the past year, policy credit had created jobs for over 712,000 workers, supported 9,300 people to work abroad, and nearly 7,000 people secured stable jobs after completing their jail terms. Additionally, leveraging policy credit sources, more than 88,500 disadvantaged students got loans to cover tuition fees, nearly 1.76 million clean water and sanitation facilities in rural areas were built; 1,143 houses for poor households, and over 6,200 social housing units were completed, meeting the housing needs of low-income people. Strengthening capital mobilisation To achieve the credit growth target in 2025, deputy CEO Huynh Van Thuan said that VBSP is focusing on key tasks to provide loans to poor households and other policy beneficiaries, ensuring timely debt repayment and maintaining the systems overall liquidity. The bank proactively advises the government, ministries, departments, local authorities, and closely coordinates with member units to implement Directive No.39-CT/TW in October 2024 by the Secretariat on enhancing the effectiveness of social policy credit in the new era. The entire VBSP system identifies Directive No.39 as crucial, laying the foundation for continuing the effective implementation of social policy credit, effectively contributing to driving the countrys socioeconomic development in the upcoming period, said Thuan. In addition, VBSP is set to draft and submit a plan to implement the Directive to the government. At the same time, VBSP will coordinate with central agencies to advise on the allocation of local budget entrusted funds under NAs Resolution No.111/2024/QH15 on supporting national target programmes. Immediately after getting the Prime Minister's approval, VBSP shall implement the credit growth plan, focusing on national target programmes, including sustainable poverty reduction, new-style rural area development, and socioeconomic development for ethnic minority regions for 2021-2025. Enhancing the efficiency of capital use will also continue through strict credit quality management measures, with effective handling of risky debts to ensure safe and sustainable financial operations. This year, VBSP shall concentrate resources on executing the 2025 digital transformation plan, which includes upgrading the Intellect Core Banking system to the digital banking version, developing products and services on the Mobile Banking platform, and expanding the digital ecosystem for customers. The year promises to continue being challenging, but also presents many opportunities for VBSP. With the government's support, VBSP is striving to fulfill its tasks effectively, supporting national target programmes and contributing to the sustainable development of the country. GEFE 2024 to catalyse a green future for Vietnam Driven by the success of previous events, businesses and investors are pinning high hopes on the Green Economy Forum & Exhibition 2024 to seek more opportunities to partner with Vietnam in its net-zero mission. Resilience playing part in Vietnams 2024 performance Projections for the Vietnamese economy in 2025 have been unveiled. Andrea Coppola, lead country economist and programme leader for Equitable Growth, Finance and Institutions at the World Bank in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, talked with VIRs Khoi Nguyen about the economic outlook and the governments moves. Although the value has not been disclosed, this investment will fuel enfarm's mission to revolutionise agriculture by empowering farmers with data-driven insights to boost yields while minimising environmental impact. By leveraging AI and the Internet of Things to optimise crop nutrition, enfarm addresses the critical agricultural challenge of inefficient fertiliser use. This practice wastes a staggering $120 billion annually, degrades one-third of global cropland, and contributes to 5 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions. The company's innovative solution utilises real-time data from soil sensors and smartphone applications. Its platform provides lab-grade precision on NPK readings, coupled with AI-powered actionable recommendations to significantly reduce fertiliser waste and improve crop performance. Recent field trials on coffee farms in the Central Highlands showcased the power of enfarm's technology. Farmers achieved a remarkable 30 per cent reduction in fertiliser use, while simultaneously increasing crop yields by 30 per cent. This success has led to rapid adoption by farmers in southern Vietnam, particularly coffee and durian growers. Khanh Tran, managing partner at Touchstone Partners, said, "We believe that technology can transform the lives of farmers by addressing long-standing challenges in agriculture. By providing farmers with real-time soil data, enfarms solution allows farmers to optimise fertiliser use and reduce agricultural waste. By making agricultural production more efficient and sustainable on a larger scale, enfarm boosts productivity while helping farmers reduce costs and improve their livelihoods." "We are thrilled to have the support of these leading funds to accelerate our mission of sustainable agriculture," said Dzung Do Nguyen, co-founder and CEO of enfarm. "This investment will enable us to scale operations, lower product costs, cover more corps, and expand to other ASEAN markets." Nguyen further emphasised the urgency of enfarm's solution. "Climate change is jeopardising traditional farming methods, positioning enfarm as a transformative solution for global agriculture. Low-carbon, high-yield farming practices can meet the 70 per cent increase in food demand forecasted by the FAO by 2050." Strengthening Vietnam-Ireland cooperation in agritech A conference on agriculture cooperation between Ireland and Vietnam was held on September 8 by the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine in collaboration with Vietnams Ministry of Planning and Investments (MPI) Agency for Enterprises Development. Agritech startup Techcoop raises $5 million With financing from local VC firm Ascend Vietnam Ventures (AVV) and Singapore-based VC firm TNB Aura, agritech startup TechCoop Pte. Ltd. secured over $5 million in equity and debt from local banks on March 21. Ethos Ventures, South Korean impact investor MYSC, and Mandala Capital also participated in the fundraising. A meeting on a comprehensive health access programme was organised on December 21 in Hanoi, directed by the Central Committee of Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and the Ministry of Health (MoH), and carried out by the Vietnam Young Physicians Association (VYPA) and partners such as AstraZeneca Vietnam. AstraZeneca joins efforts for universal health coverage Addressing the meeting, Nguyen Van Thuan, Deputy Minister of Health, said that the ministry has deployed many strategies in disease prevention and control, as well as in community healthcare. In particular, the focus has been on managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and closely monitoring the situation of infectious diseases. The programme is an initiative that demonstrates the aspiration to improve the quality of healthcare, affirming the central role of the young generation, especially young doctors, in the development of the Vietnamese healthcare sector, he said. The initiative identifies five specific goals from now until 2030. They include having at least half of district medical facilities to be trained and transferred AI technology for screening for lung diseases and other chronic diseases; reducing tobacco use among young men to below 30 per cent and zero young people using e-cigarettes; and piloting the use of AI as a pre-screening tool, as a basis for health insurance to pay for chronic disease screening. Between 2025 and 2030, partners will accompany the Vietnam Youth Union and the VYPA to organise health partnership conferences, policy dialogues with the government and the National Assembly, support programmes, and also to improve grassroots health capacity and examination initiatives in remote, isolated, and disadvantaged areas. Clinical research will be conducted to generate evidence of the impact of the health equity programme, particularly in lung health. Its success will provide a solid foundation for other activities aimed at improving the health of patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, kidney failure, and various cancers. According to the VYPA, health equity is a goal that requires significant effort to achieve. By combining the right policies, effective investment and societys participation, Vietnam can move closer to ensuring that all people, regardless of geography or circumstances, have access to quality health services. Barriers to achieving universal health coverage still exist. With an ageing population, climate change, and the rise of chronic diseases, this issue is becoming increasingly severe, and health disparities are widening. Nonetheless, 80 per cent of NCDs are preventable and can be better managed through improved access to screening services, early disease detection, and management. Dr. Ha Duc Anh, chairman of the VYPA, said, The activities focus on mobilising the broad participation of the community, professional units, and organisations to improve diagnostic capacity, improve the quality of treatment, and boost management of chronic NCDs through the deployment of innovative solutions such as AI tools. In recent times, the association, AstraZeneca Vietnam, and other partners have implemented many initiatives such as CAREME, the Health Innovation Network, and activities focusing on screening, early diagnosis, and improving the quality of treatment, care, and management of NCDs through digital tools. They have also combined traditional medicine with AI, the Internet of Things, and remote treatment. AstraZeneca Vietnam has committed to supporting one million AI readings per year to screen lung disease, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. It also supports NCD screening in the community for 20,000 people annually, as well as many activities to promote science and technology and green health. Our mission is to improve healthcare outcomes for everyone with a patient-centred approach to ensure that all individuals can live their healthiest lives, said Atul Tandon, general director of AstraZeneca Vietnam at the meeting. By applying a health equity perspective across our entire business operations, we strive to better understand the factors contributing to access gaps among different population groups. In Vietnam, NCDs in lung health, including cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, are among the leading causes of disease burdens. Lung cancer ranks second among leading cancers by number of deaths, with 75 per cent of patients being diagnosed at a terminal stage, resulting in a five-year survival rate of only 14.8 per cent. Meanwhile, the prevalence of COPD in Vietnam ranks highest in the Asia-Pacific region, with only 35 per cent of patients detected at an early stage before complications. AstraZeneca reinforces commitment to healthcare Pharma giant AstraZeneca is solidifying its position as a pioneer in healthcare innovation in Vietnam. AstraZeneca pledges further progress for healthcare environment in Vietnam AstraZeneca is strengthening local partnerships to unlock the power of science and improve access to healthcare. Atul Tandon, general director of AstraZeneca Vietnam, discussed with VIRs Minh Anh about the vision and next steps. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak arrives at court in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on April 2, 2024. (Photo: ANI/VNA) Kuala Lumpur - Malaysias imprisoned former Prime Minister Najib Razak on January 6 won an appeal to pursue his bid to serve his remaining corruption sentence under house arrest. Najib, who was jailed over the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal, had appealed against a lower court decision last July that dismissed his bid to confirm the existence of and execute a royal order that he said entitled him to 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. He claimed the addendum was issued during a pardons board meeting on January 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 on January 6 ordered the High Court to hear the merits of the case. The decision came after Najibs lawyer produced a letter from a Pahang state palace official confirming that Sultan Abdullah had issued the addendum order. Najib set up the 1MDB development fund shortly after he took office in 2009. Investigators allege at least 4.5 billion USD was stolen from the fund and laundered by Najibs associates through layers of bank accounts in the US and other countries. He is still fighting graft charges in the main trial linking him directly to the scandal. Malaysia launches national AI office for policy, regulation Malaysia launched on December 12 a national artificial intelligence (AI) office aimed at shaping policies and addressing regulatory issues, as it looks to establish itself as a regional hub for AI development.